DJI drones are seen in a DJI store in Shanghai on May 22, 2019. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images)

Why Are US Police Officers Using Chinas Surveillance Tech?

Commentary

The Biden administration imposed restrictions on a number of Chinese drone makers in December 2021. One of the companies targeted was DJI, the worlds leading drone manufacturer based in Shenzhen, Chinas answer to Silicon Valley.

DJI had allegedly supplied drone technology to Chinese military forces to surveil Uyghur Muslims in Chinas Xinjiang region.

However, as the BBC noted at the time, banning Americans from buying and selling DJI shares was largely symbolic. As DJI is not a publicly-traded company, U.S.-based consumers can continue to buy and use DJI drones.

Just because you can still buy and use surveillance technology made in China doesnt mean that you should. In fact, you really shouldnt. But try telling that to the Chula Vista Police Department in San Diego.

According to the citys website, Chula Vista boasts more than 52 square miles of coastal landscape, canyons, rolling hills, mountains, quality parks, and miles of trails. Chula Vista is a leader in conservation and renewable energy. Its also a leader in the use of surveillance drones. More specifically, surveillance drones made in China.

As I write this piece, the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) is busy deploying surveillance drones manufactured by DJI. In July of last year, the Department of Defense (DOD) released a statement, warning that DJIs drones pose potential threats to national security.

They most definitely do. As I have documented elsewhere, long before the Biden administration decided to take action, DJI has close links with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), and theres reason to believe that any data gathered in the United States is sent back to Beijing.

Now, before going any further, its important to state the following: this is not an attack on police officers. I am, in fact, a vocal supporter of what police officers stand for. This is a piece designed to reiterate the dangers posed by Chinese-made tech. If police officers insist on using drones, then why must the technology come from a company that has close ties to Beijing?

The mission of the CVPDs unmanned aerial systems (UAS) program, were told, is to provide airborne support to police operations in a safe, responsible, and transparent manner to preserve the peace, reduce response times, and increase the quality of life in Chula Vista.

In August 2019, through the tremendous generosity of the Chula Vista Police Foundation, CVPD was given the funds to purchase two new DJI Matrice 210 V2 Drones. Then, the following year, through a combination of a donation from the Chula Vista Police Foundation and the use of grant monies, CVPD purchased seven new DJI Matrice M-300 Drones. As you read this, the M-300s are currently being deployed from all launch sites daily.

A DJI Mavic Zoom drone flies during a product launch event at the Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York City on Aug. 23, 2018. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

This should worry all citizens in the San Diego area. As Albert Fox Cahn, executive director of the New York-based Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, told KPBS, When a product is so bad for privacy that even the Pentagon is refusing to use it, I think that should be raising alarm bells. Indeed.

More concerningly, as KPBS first reported, the city has signed a rather disturbing contract with Motorola Solutions, a clearinghouse for data gathered by drones and other surveillance technologies.

According to the contract, Motorola refuses to accept any liability for DJIs use of the data it collects through the drones. What do you think happens to the data? Well, according to Zhang Fanxi, a spokesman for DJI, data is handed over to those in Beijing.

What kind of data is being collected by Motorola? According to KVPB, social media feeds, information picked up by the agencys automated license plate readers, known as ALPRs, and video captured by its drones sent out to 9-1-1 calls.

The aforementioned Cahn, commenting on the contract, had this to say: This is really just chilling and it feels like handing over Californians information wholesale to the surveillance vendors and a real dereliction of duty.

Even more disturbingly, Chula Vista has given permission to Motorola Solutions to sell the data if it has been anonymized. Its important to note that the idea of anonymous data is a lie. According to experts, its very easy to re-identify unnamed subjects.

Sadly, CVPD is not alone when it comes to the use of DJI products. In fact, as Reuters recently reported, at least 900 U.S. public safety agencies, including police officers in New York City and the Boston area, are currently using DJI products. Although the NYPDs drone policy states that the devices do not use facial recognition technologies and cannot conduct facial recognition analysis, a still image can be created from the recorded video images and may be used as a probe image for facial recognition analysis.

This is simply unforgivable. Do you think the CCP would allow its police officers to use compromised tech from the United States? Of course not.

DJI is a dangerous company. Its products have no place in the United States. The Biden administration must impose stricter restrictions, because symbolic gestures are absolutely worthless.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Like many of the early African-American jazzmen, Nick was unschooled in music. He was entirely self-taught and played by ear; not relying on written music at all (he described himself as a slow reader of sheet music). Through his adult life, Nick carried a vast repertoire of tunes in his head. Nick had his jazz heroes, such as New Orleans clarinettist George Lewis, but did not model his playing style on any one of them in particular; he developed his own jazz voice informed by the classic Creole-style of clarinet playing. As a reviewer once proclaimed, he is the real deal. Louisiana Creoles were the descendants of mixed French and African-American heritage. Nick told me that with his Mediterranean complexion as a young man he passed for a Creole when performing in New Orleans. This was a great convenience for Nick as mixed-race bands were frowned upon by public officials. Parental concerns about his academic future were unfounded. Nick went on to graduate from the University of Melbourne with degrees in commerce, languages and arts, and, later in life, a degree in social work. He also quickly moved on to clarinet as his preferred jazz instrument. At university, Nick performed with amateur campus-based and other semi-professional jazz bands; among them the Varsity Vipers and then the Doc Willis and Alan Bradley bands. His big break came in 1951 when he joined Melbournes leading professional jazz band Frank Johnsons Fabulous Dixielanders. In Australia, this band was rated second only to Graeme Bells Sydney-based band. The Dixielanders were Melbournes pre-eminent jazz band of that time. In 1954, Louis Armstrong and his band visited Australia for the first time and the Frank Johnson Band played to greet them as they disembarked from their Ansett flight on the tarmac of Melbournes Essendon airport. The entourage was invited back to Nicks parents place for a welcome party. That evening, Armstrong invited Nick to play with his world famous All Stars band in the Polites family home!

Nick played and recorded with the Dixielanders until late 1956. In September 1955, the band had a terrible car accident returning to Melbourne from a country gig. Band-member Wocka Dyer was killed and Nick was laid up in hospital for two months recovering from a broken neck. The spark went out of the band after that episode. A staunch jazz traditionalist, Nick moved on when the band started performing more commercially oriented material. After leaving the Dixielanders, Nick teamed-up with Llew Hird, and later with English folk-blues vocalist Peter Shiells, and still later with German migrant Mookie Herman on double bass. Their appearance at the 1957 Australian Jazz Convention was a fillip to their popularity on the jazz scene. With Llew Hirds departure in March 1958 leadership fell to Nick. They were renamed the Melbourne New Orleans Jazz Band. From September 1961, the band toured extensively in the UK, Ireland, and Germany until disbanding in London in April 1963. Then, after a first visit to Greece, Nick embarked on his first of many pilgrimages to the birthplace of jazz  New Orleans. On arrival in the Crescent City, Nick made his way to Preservation Hall in the French Quarter and bumped into one of his jazz heroes  George Lewis  standing in the courtyard of this now iconic venue. They had previously met in London and George said to Nick: Im playing tonight, come along and join in. Thus, Nick became a regular at Preservation Hall for three months and then continued with regular performances there on subsequent visits. During this time, Nick even filled in for Lewis in his regular band when he had overseas performance commitments, and when George was in town, he and Nick played clarinet duets. As mentioned earlier, Nicks Mediterranean appearance meant he was presumed by many locals to be of Creole descent, which aided in side-stepping the local segregationist public policy at that time. Nick must have felt he was in jazz heaven. He was playing with his idols Lewis, Kid Howard, Jim Robinson, George Guesnon, Slow Drag Pavageau, Cie Frazier, and Dolly Adams on piano. In subsequent years, Nick got to perform with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, Art Blakey and he befriended iconic performers like Mahalia Jackson.

Nick returned to Melbourne just in time for the 1963 jazz convention at the Kew Civic Centre. Early in 1964, Nick joined the popular Yarra Yarra Jazz Band as their leader for a couple of years, and he rejoined them after a spell. He moved on to team up with Sydney jazzman Geoff Bull for a European tour and his second visit to New Orleans where he was establishing his reputation with African American players and audiences who continued to presume he was a local Creole. On returning to Melbourne in late 1966, Nick formed his own New Orleans Stompers that played for another five years. He continued with various bands through to the formation of the Louisiana Shakers in 1994. Nick was a fixture around the Melbourne jazz scene and toured extensively around the UK and Europe nine times. He performed his last gig with the Shakers on Christmas Eve 2018. Nick felt particularly indebted to the late Ashley Keating who led the Shakers and organised their overseas tours around the UK and Europe. The Shakers have been recognised as one of the true keepers of the flame of the authentic ethnic New Orleans jazz style. Nick Polites, circa 2017. At four successive Australian Jazz Conventions from 1957 to 1960, Nick was voted Australias best jazz clarinet player by fellow musicians and delegates. This discontinued practice was followed with a final convention concert by those voted the cream of all the players. Nick has written and recorded several jazz compositions: Green Gate Serenade, Nickin Off and Helpin Hand Rag. A couple of these were winning tunes at the regular Australian Jazz Convention competition for new compositions. He was also a leader and administrator for Australian jazz. He was president of the 1960 Australian Jazz Convention and several subsequently, and a convention trustee for several decades. He was a founding member of the Victorian Jazz Club and on its management committee for many years.

On graduating from university in the late 1940s, Nick had taken-up the CEO position with his familys confectionery manufacturing business through to its sale in 1971. Fortunately, his brother-in-law was able to step in to manage the business when Nick was on tour overseas. After the sale of the family business, Nick moved into the migrant services sector, initially as a volunteer and then as inaugural director of the Australian Greek Welfare Society (now known as Pronia). A condition of government funding at the time was that AGWS must employ a qualified Greek-speaking social worker. Problem was that there wasnt such a person in Victoria at that time. So, Nick just went back to university and took a bachelor of social work. Fortunately, with his previous academic qualifications he was able to complete this degree within two years. Nick was a member of the 1978 Galbally Committee, whose seminal migrant services review and recommendations laid the foundations for the Australian Governments multicultural public policy to this day. In 1981, he was awarded an OAM recognising his significant contributions in this field of his endeavours. Nick never really retired. He continued performing as a founding member of the Louisiana Shakers until after hed turned 90. Fans could regularly see him perform at the Clyde Hotel in Carlton on a Sunday afternoon right through to the end of 2018. After that, he would still make impromptu performances from time to time, to the delight of his friends and fans. Nick Polites many friends, musical collaborators and fans in the jazz community, and colleagues and admirers in the multicultural affairs sector, are indebted to his great legacy. He is survived by three generations of nephews and nieces.
LONDON, Feb. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Global business collective, the Valuable 500, today announces new research showing that almost half of businesses believe that a key barrier to the recruitment and retention of disabled employees is the lack of candidates.

This contrasts evidence from government figures showing that there are one million disabled people in the UK who can and want to work but are being denied the opportunity. The data, highlighted by Virgin Media and Scope with their ground-breaking campaign was supported by an Opinium survey of 2,000 disabled people which found that when applying for jobs only half of applications result in an interview, compared with 69% for non-disabled applicants. 2021 Government figures show that the disability employment gap sits at 28.4%, a decrease year on the year by just 0.7%. This shows a clear need for a shift away from misconceptions in recruitment.

One major factor behind the lack of job candidates with disabilities could be attributed to lack of representation of disability inclusion. It is often a forgotten aspect in the broader business agenda  particularly when it comes to business leadership where just 4% of CEOs have a disclosed disability.

Disabled people bring immense contribution to business and society as a whole, making up 15% of the global population, they bring diversity of thought, lived experience and a wealth of talent, all vital for business sustainability.

Christophe Catoir, President of Adecco who is a member of the Valuable 500, explains : "At Adecco, we intend to make the future work for everyone, and we really mean it. We have developed a sound culture of inclusion that enforces integration in the workplace for persons with disabilities across all our markets. With perseverance, we demonstrate every day that persons with disabilities are reliable, skilled and talented individuals with the potential to belong fully to the world of work in all industries and types of positions."

Since reaching the goal of 500 organisations in May 2021, the Valuable 500 has launched phase 2 of the campaign and it has received the largest ever investment into disability business inclusion, with The Nippon Foundation investing $5 million to catalyse new Valuable 500 initiatives.

Caroline Casey, Founder of the Valuable 500, commented:

"We are now entering 2022, and employers who have gone through two years of disruption are re-building and need to ensure that disability inclusion is at the heart of their agendas. What the research shows us today, is that whilst many companies are striving to do just this, we still have a lack of representation and businesses still have a long way to shift the dial truly and irreversibly on disability inclusion. 18% of the UK population have a disability and they need to be seen and heard.

"But more than this  we need to strive to fundamentally transform the global business system and fight for an inclusive society. At some point in our lives, every single one of us will experience disability and we all have a responsibility to make humanity function better."

Paul Polman, Chairman of the Valuable 500, commented:

"Having a diverse and inclusive workforce is a powerful driver for improved company performance, and this must extend to including people with disabilities. It's not only the right thing to do, but also the smart and profitable thing to do for any business leaders looking to unlock talent, boost innovation and build a culture of trust, respect and inclusion throughout the company.

"We've seen progress in recent years as the biggest business groups across the globe have signed up to disability inclusion commitments through the Valuable 500. 2022 must bring faster action to close the disability employment gap once and for all."

Media contacts

Please contact:

Jess Buckley

Seven Hills

Email: [email protected]

Richard Poston

Director of Communications, the Valuable 500

Email: [email protected]

Notes to Editors

About the Valuable 500

Valuable was launched by social entrepreneur and activist Caroline Casey at One Young World 2017 in Bogota, Colombia and the inception of the Valuable 500 was announced at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in January 2019. Today the Valuable 500 is the largest community of Global CEOs committed to disability inclusion in business.

Since its creation, the Valuable 500 has achieved its initial goal of persuading 500 multinational organisations to make a public commitment to disability inclusion in their organisation, igniting a historic global movement for a new age of diversity in business. The Valuable 500 and their global impact partner The Nippon Foundation, will be working closely with the World Economic Forum and International Disability Alliance - bringing together a leading philanthropic organisation with the most prestigious global business network and the voice of the global disability community.

By engaging with the world's most influential business leaders and brands, the network now has a combined revenue of over $8 trillion and employs a staggering 22 million people worldwide. Its members include 13 global CEOs and companies who will be spearheading the programmes and services to be offered under Phase 2 of the campaign, which will be activated through global disability surveys, disability trend reports and an executive disability resource hub.

After reaching this important milestone, the Valuable 500 is determined to create a community that supports and empowers its 500 members to systematically transform their businesses, so they include the 1.3 billion people living with disabilities worldwide, thereby unlocking their business, social and economic potential.

SOURCE the Valuable 500
The current narrative on Russia and Ukraine is simple: Russia is big and aggressive. Ukraine is a small, harmless state just minding its own business. Russia wants to reconstitute its old Soviet empire, and Ukraine is now in its crosshairs.

But a lot more than that is going on. The U.S. spouts lots of freedom and national sovereignty talk, but in fact, it has a long history of meddling in the weak post-Soviet state, which is so corrupt that it can't get into NATO and has poisonous internal politics. For years, Ukraine has been like a cat's plaything to outside forces, and the U.S. is no stranger to it.

"The extent of the Obama administration's meddling in Ukraine politics was breathtaking," wrote the CATO Institute's Ted Galen Carpenter, in a clear discussion of the extent of U.S. involvement in the coup that overthrew Ukraine's President Yanukovych.

As the Biden administration now fails to resolve the ongoing crisis of Russian troops at Ukraine's border, we have come to this statement, in the U.N. Security Council, on Ukraine, from Vasily Nebenzia, Russia's permanent representative at the United Nations, as reported in the New York Times on Feb. 1, which, sad to say, is more credible that the remarks from Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. permanent representative at the U.N.

Mr. Nebenzia, in his remarks, said the United States and its Western allies had manufactured a crisis to weaken Russia and drive a wedge between it and Ukraine. He said the United States had been behind the 2014 change of government in Ukraine that had driven a pro-Moscow leadership from power and had installed "nationalists, radicals, Russophobes and pure Nazis." Mr. Nebenzia also sought to draw an analogy to the false American evidence of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq that preceded the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of that country, adding that "what happened to that country is known to all." He reinforced a Kremlin message that it is the West that has concocted the crisis, despite the massing of Russian troops on Ukraine's borders. The Russians have also seized on recent complaints by Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, that the Americans are needlessly sowing "panic."

A comment on this Times story is necessary to correct its twisted reference to "the 2014 change of government in Ukraine."

What actually occurred is that the Obama-era assistant secretary of state, Victoria Nuland, working with Geoffrey Pyatt, our ambassador to Ukraine at the time, manipulated the political situation in the overthrow of the democratically elected president of Ukraine, Viktor Yanukovych, whose sin was that he favored a realistic relationship between his government and Russia, when interlopers from the U.S., notably Sen. John McCain, urged anti-government demonstrators in Kiev, in December 2013, to bring Ukraine into the West's orbit.

As has become the habit of the U.S. media, debate on Washington's policy towards Ukraine  and Russia  was not encouraged. The party line was: Putin bad, Ukraine must turn to the West, with a government accepting the U.S. diktat. This habit, faithful to the lamentable tradition of a controlled, not a free, press, continues. See, for example, the Jan. 21 op-ed article in The Wall Street Journal, "Kyiv Waits for an Invasion," followed by this Jan. 25 Journal op-ed, "Putin's Threat to Ukraine Isn't Limited to Invasion."

Interestingly, the lead story in the New York Times, dated Jan. 29, reported that Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky discounted warnings that Russia was about to invade his country. Mr. Zelensky's criticism of war talk from Washington hardly refutes Russian arguments that the Biden administration has, for its own reasons, manufactured an international crisis.

An article in the Jan. 31 issue of The Nation, by Anatoly Lieven, is worth reading, if only for this trenchant observation: the ideas that Russia would send its troops into central Ukraine, "let alone attack Poland or the Baltic States ... are ridiculous Western fantasies generated partly by genuine paranoia, partly by [Americans and Europeans] who need to demonize Russia in order to cover up their appalling mistakes and lies over the past 30 years, and partly to allow NATO ... to parade its heroic resistance to a threat that does not in fact exist."

Apart from isolated piercings, as mentioned here, of the media's Iron Curtain of one narrative on our Ukraine policy, can anyone recall members of Congress asking the late Sen. McCain why he traveled to Kiev to encourage anti-government demonstrators to overthrow their democratically elected president? I can't.

The moral seems apparent: the forces of un-democracy here at home, who smeared President Trump as an agent of a meddling foreign power, have no compunction at all in interfering in the domestic affairs of foreign states. Where are Republican leaders to denounce foreign policy by hypocrisy  or are they intimidated by the new McCarthyism practiced by this disastrous administration and its media and intel enablers?

Image: Jim Greenhill via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.
DES MOINES  A man charged with sneaking into a neonatal unit at a Des Moines hospital and feeding a baby that wasnt his has not explained his motive, police said.

Adam Wedig, 36, was charged Monday with two counts of criminal trespass.

Police said Wedig got into the NICU at MercyOne on Dec. 28 and bottle-fed a baby despite having no connection to the babys family.

He told police he didnt intend to hurt the child, KCCI-TV reports.

Des Moines police Sgt. Paul Parizek said Wedig acknowledged he was a man seen in videotape at the hospital but didnt offer a motive.

So we dont know what brought him to do this, but we were able to establish that, and this is the relieving piece, is that he had no intent to harm anyone, Parizek said.

In a statement to KCCI last week, MercyOne called the incident extremely troubling and said it has changed policies to ensure a similar incident does not happen in the future.
It's no wonder that one of the first acts of all communist regimes is to round up and murder anybody not hysterically committed to the "cause." Communism, like its COVID-1984 kissing cousin, only thrives when mass formation psychosis takes over. In practice, this entails killing an awfully large number of people who are too old or experienced to believe in fairy tales told to them by government agents with one hand on a loaf of bread and the other on the butt of a gun.

And you say if we collectivize our farms, we'll be able to feed the whole nation? An end to property rights will bring about utopia in our own time? Tell me, what kind of mule kicked you in the head, son? Hey, wait, let me go...

It is a sad fact that communism depends on the young, naive, or brain-dead to push an ideology that brings nothing but poverty, unhappiness, and death. "Give me just one generation of youth, and I'll transform the whole world," Vladimir Lenin boasted. Transform? If not for friends of freedom, perhaps so. But by capturing generations of children, he was certainly capable of breaking their futures into pieces. Venezuela, China, Cuba, Cambodia, Korea  wherever communism is allowed to draw breath, mass murder and dystopia follow in quick succession.

Barack Obama spoke endlessly of "fundamentally transforming" the United States, and given that America was founded and forged in a dedication to liberty and a rejection of government tyranny, it was always clear which side of that dichotomy he fervently supported. For his efforts, the American population has rarely been more divided, urban crime and murder rates have spiraled out of control, and the Department of (in)Justice has descended into a death spiral of wretched partisanship. As if Americans needed any reminders, the ridiculous double standard in the way Black Lives Matter and other darling "activists" of the political left are celebrated by the U.S. government and regularly absolved from the repercussions of their criminal conduct while J6 Capitol protesters are politically persecuted and held in solitary confinement should shock the conscience of anyone committed to due process and the rule of law. Likewise, Republican politicians not vociferously denouncing this vile double standard (or worse, actually condoning it as Lindsey Graham, Dan Crenshaw, Liz Cheney, and Adam Kinzinger have done) have made it clear which side of the freedom/tyranny battlefield they've chosen to defend.

As with any communist system, social division is the price of conquest. Cultural unity in the U.S. was shot in the back of the head so that Obama and "wingman" Eric Holder could segregate black and white Americans from each other, tear open gashes in the body politic that had mostly healed after many decades, and rub enough salt in those fresh wounds to ride artificially-constructed public anger to electoral victory. Obama spoke of nothing but "hope," spread nothing but hate, and left America in nothing but shambles. It may have been the "Chicago way" of politics, but it was most certainly the "communist way" of stoking imaginary grievances until the social fabric could be torn asunder and replaced with something "new." And by "new," I mean the same old putrid rancidness of Lenin's communism but dressed up in the paper-thin disguises of "racial justice," "climate justice," "equity," "fairness," "multiculturalism," and all the other false idols worshiped by the "woke" pagans on their Marxist journey to salvation. Obama was glorified as a false messiah by his devout followers, and like any false prophet, he brought them misery, death, and war, instead of peace.

What he did give his political disciples, though, was a grand lesson in the efficacy of propaganda, punishment, and power. If you repeat lies long enough, many former skeptics will start to believe. If you punish your enemies savagely enough, you can convince some to accept many implausible things. And if you toss justice, law, and morality out the window and concentrate exclusively on the applications of propaganda and punishment, you can accumulate power quickly without fretting over the existence of political opposition. He got socialized medicine, open borders, and a Supreme Court too cowed to stop the expansion of the administrative state. American citizens got the worst economic growth since the Great Depression, fractured communities suffering from illegal immigration, and a repurposed national security deep state dedicated to targeting ordinary Americans who dared to object to the government's new authoritarianism on steroids. And anybody who called out the Obama government for its blatantly un-American policies was ridiculed from all quarters of the mass media complex as being racist, nativist, sexist, homophobic, unenlightened, deplorable, or even Russian (irony alert).

So that they alone control the flow of information, communists on the march usually take over a nation's radio and television stations before worrying about winning physical battles. In America, too, this is exactly what has happened. Our corporate news propagandists have become a veritable Ministry of Truth. We are treated to endless lies about Russian collusion, secure elections, and the life-or-death imperative of COVID (which magically arose in nature but certainly not anywhere near China) compliance. For the Ministry of Truth, freedom is always the enemy, and duty to the State is always virtuous. Unnamed and anonymous government sources should always be trusted (when they serve the Marxist cause), and critics of the State should be publicly targeted, "canceled," and ruined. Gun crimes are always the gun's fault unless a non-Marxist can first be blamed. Mass illegal immigration is always capitalism's fault for creating "climate refugees." Crime is never the fault of the criminal unless the criminal happens to be a police officer accused of excessive force. And anyone who opposes official proclamations from State "scientists" is a "denier" deserving of being deleted. We now live under the yoke of censorship where anything at odds with the Marxists' worldview is summarily condemned as "disinformation" or "misinformation" and yanked from the public sphere, while the Ministry of Truth corporate news pumps out actual disinformation and misinformation all day long. Where the corporate propagandists fail to convert the masses, Hollywood steps in to finish the job, and it has never been happier to play its part. There's a reason La-La Land gets along so well with the genocidal maniacs of Communist China: They share a common communist cause.

What Obama unleashed has now snowballed into a world fit only for the deranged  a cage with rubber walls where delusional men who believe they're women are treated as heroes and people who refuse to share those delusions are treated as crazy; where parents are "domestic terrorists" for protecting their children's education; where COVID communists refuse healthcare to the unvaccinated in the name of "saving lives"; where people who demonize oil and natural gas are flabbergasted when the cost of food skyrockets; where people who protest government power are called "fascists" and government authoritarians are celebrated as "democrats"; and where anyone who questions that a corrupt, senile, and unpopular "president" legitimately received the most votes in history is considered a "threat to democracy," while the political operatives caught stuffing drop boxes with mail-in ballots are ignored completely. If you went back fifteen years and tried to convince people this is where America was headed, they'd call you crazy. Now they call you crazy for not succumbing to the madness.

Thus has it always been with communist regimes: The State's first victim is the truth. As the truckers in Canada protesting that oppressive regime know well, this is the time to "speak now or forever hold your peace." There are no second chances. Because after publicly executing all truth, the communists have only the sane to eliminate next.

Hat tip to the knights of the road.

Image via Pixabay.
"U.S. Special Operations forces under the control of U.S. Central Command conducted a counterterrorism mission this evening in northwest Syria. The mission was successful. There were no U.S. casualties. More information will be provided as it becomes available," he said.

State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Monday, that Washington urged its coalition partners in Syria to enhance secure detention of Islamic State fighters and repatriate their nationals and other detainees remaining in the northeast of the Arab republic.

In mid-January, about 200 terrorists affiliated with the IS escaped in an attack on a prison controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the Syrian city of Al-Hasakah.

The IS attacked the facility in order to free imprisoned fighters.

On Wednesday, the SDF said that the prison was back under control, and about 1,000 remaining terrorists have surrendered.

According to the latest data, 175 terrorists were eliminated and 27 SDF soldiers were killed.

"We call on our partners in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, whose efforts successfully stripped ISIS of its captured territory, to improve the secure and humane detention of ISIS fighters, support rehabilitation initiatives, and urgently repatriate their nationals and other detainees remaining in northeast Syria. The U.S. government will continue its stabilization and other programs in the region to support these efforts," Price said.

The US remains committed to efforts contributing to the defeat of the IS terrorists, he added. (ANI)
Four people have been arrested in connection with the death of actor Michael K Williams, who died of a fentanyl-laced heroin overdose in September 2021. As per Variety, the US Attorney's Office in New York announced on Wednesday that four people were arrested on federal charges stemming from the overdose demise of The Wire star. Michael K Williams Died Due to Drug Overdose, Reveals Autospy Report

Irvin Cartagena, 39, is accused of selling heroin laced with fentanyl to Williams in Manhattan on September 5, the day before Williams was found dead in his Brooklyn apartment. Three others -- Hector Robles, 57, Luis Cruz, 56, and Carlos Macci, 70 -- were also arrested on a charge of heroin and fentanyl conspiracy. The Crowns Tobias Menzies Dedicates His Emmy Win to Late Actor Michael K Williams.

According to the criminal complaint, investigators were able to trace Williams' car using license-plate reader data, as well as location data from his phone, and discovered that he had travelled to a location in the 200 block of South 3rd Street in Manhattan the day before his death. Earlier in 2021, the New York Police Department had begun an undercover investigation of a drug-trafficking operation based in an apartment building on that block, according to the complaint.

Investigators obtained surveillance images of the sidewalk on that block, which show Williams greeting a group of people, including Cartagena, according to the complaint. The complaint includes an image in which a man identified as Cartagena appears to engage in a hand-to-hand transaction with Williams. The two later appeared to exchange phone numbers, and then Williams left and returned home, according to the complaint.

He did not leave his apartment after that and was found dead the following day in the same clothes as he was wearing in the surveillance images, according to the document. Investigators were able to identify Cartagena using other surveillance images from a nearby store, matching a tattoo on his right arm to a prior arrest photo, according to the complaint.

All four defendants face a charge of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison. Cartagena is also accused of causing Williams' death, which carries a 20-year mandatory minimum. Williams rose to stardom with his performance as Omar Little on 'The Wire', and later appeared in 'Boardwalk Empire', 'The Night Of' and 'Lovecraft Country'. In interviews, he was candid about his struggles with addiction. He was 54. He died of acute intoxication from the "combined effects of fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, heroin and cocaine" in September 2021.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Heads of States from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will later today, Thursday, 3 February 2022, hold a meeting in Accra to deliberate over the military coup in Burkina Faso.

The ECOWAS leaders will also be seeking a solution to the coup detats across the West African sub-region.

The army in Burkina Faso, led by Lt. Col. Paul Henry Sandaogo last week, overthrew the President Roch Marc Kabore.

The military had said the president failed to deal with Islamist militants in Burkina Faso.

Burkina Faso was suspended from all ECOWAS activities as part of efforts to ensure a return to democratic rule in that country.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has announced ahead of the ECOWAS meeting that some principal roads in Accra will be closed to motorists.

The affected roads include Jubilee Lounge (KIA) to Liberation Road at Opeibea, Liberation Road from Airport traffic light through the Independence Avenue to National Theatre traffic light, and Kempinski Hotel to National Theatre on the Independence Avenue through to Ako Adjei.

The Roads will be opened to traffic immediately the ECOWAS meeting is over.
Four people have been arrested in connection with the death of actor Michael K Williams, who died of a fentanyl-laced heroin overdose in September 2021. As per Variety, the US Attorney's Office in New York announced on Wednesday that four people were arrested on federal charges stemming from the overdose demise of 'The Wire' star. Irvin Cartagena, 39, is accused of selling heroin laced with fentanyl to Williams in Manhattan on September 5, the day before Williams was found dead in his Brooklyn apartment. Three others -- Hector Robles, 57, Luis Cruz, 56, and Carlos Macci, 70 -- were also arrested on a charge of heroin and fentanyl conspiracy. According to the criminal complaint, investigators were able to trace Williams' car using license-plate reader data, as well as location data from his phone, and discovered that he had travelled to a location in the 200 block of South 3rd Street in Manhattan the day before his death. Earlier in 2021, the New York Police Department had begun an undercover investigation of a drug-trafficking operation based in an apartment building on that block, according to the complaint. Investigators obtained surveillance images of the sidewalk on that block, which show Williams greeting a group of people, including Cartagena, according to the complaint. The complaint includes an image in which a man identified as Cartagena appears to engage in a hand-to-hand transaction with Williams. The two later appeared to exchange phone numbers, and then Williams left and returned home, according to the complaint. He did not leave his apartment after that and was found dead the following day in the same clothes as he was wearing in the surveillance images, according to the document. Investigators were able to identify Cartagena using other surveillance images from a nearby store, matching a tattoo on his right arm to a prior arrest photo, according to the complaint. All four defendants face a charge of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison. Cartagena is also accused of causing Williams' death, which carries a 20-year mandatory minimum. Williams rose to stardom with his performance as Omar Little on 'The Wire', and later appeared in 'Boardwalk Empire', 'The Night Of' and 'Lovecraft Country'. In interviews, he was candid about his struggles with addiction. He was 54. He died of acute intoxication from the "combined effects of fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, heroin and cocaine" in September 2021. (ANI)
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Committee of Justice of Parliament will meet on February 3, 2022.

The Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday at 15.00 hrs. in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. The Minister of Justice will be present.

The agenda points are:

1. Update work visit to the Netherlands

2. Developments in our detention system

3. Progress with the Function Book of the Ministry of Justice

4. Update immigration data from the Immigration and Border Protection Services

(IS/131/2021-2022 dated October 14, 2021)

Due to measures taken to mitigate the coronavirus (COVID-19), the House of Parliament is only allowing persons with an appointment to enter the Parliament building.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, SXM Bulletin (Cable TV 120), via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, and www.pearlfmradio.sx
Chuck Schumers full-circle moment on judges has arrived.

The New Yorker has spent two decades as a field general in the Senate's judicial wars, with the GOP repeatedly steamrolling him in recent years. Now, he has a golden opportunity to command and win a Supreme Court battle as Democratic leader.

As minority leader, Schumer watched Senate Republicans confirm three Supreme Court justices under former President Donald Trump following their blockade of high-court nominee Merrick Garland. Schumer desperately tried to disrupt that Garland gambit in 2016 and fought Trump's nominees hard, just as he waged filibusters against President George W. Bushs judicial picks. This year, though, he has a much better hand.



No matter what Republicans do, Schumer can shepherd President Joe Biden's replacement for Justice Stephen Breyer through the Senate, as long as he keeps his 50-member caucus together. And at the moment, Senate Republicans arent expecting a contentious battle, given that Breyers replacement wont shift the balance of the court.

But Schumers history on judicial confirmations, as well as his starring role in years of wrangling over lifetime appointments to the nation's courts, offers a window into his views of the federal bench as he prepares for his most high-profile confirmation yet. Underscoring how formative Schumer's early years on the Judiciary Committee have proven, many colleagues in both parties remember them well  though their memories diverge on key points.

Democrats recall him foreseeing a federal judiciary that was moving to the right. Republicans blame him for the increasingly partisan confirmations of circuit and district court nominees, a once-routine process in the Senate. Sen. Chuck Grassley (Iowa), the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee, said this week that when it takes the Senate a long time to approve judges, Schumer can look back that he started this.

Schumer, for his part, has no regrets.

Story continues

I never relished this fight, but the fight came to us, Schumer said in a statement to POLITICO. Conservatives have been using the courts to implement their extreme and deeply unpopular agenda that theyve been unable to get through Congress. Faced with a dark-money-funded juggernaut, we had to fight against these extreme right-wing nominees. I think the records of many of these judges have proven me right.

Before becoming chair of the Senate Democratic campaign arm and climbing the ladder in party leadership, Schumer was especially known as a leader of the charge against Bushs judicial nominees. Republicans still bring up Schumer's role in the Democratic stonewalling of Miguel Estrada, Bushs pick to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. Estradas confirmation failed in 2003 after Senate Democrats blocked the pick, arguing they had insufficient evidence of how he would rule.

That moment made Estrada the first judicial nominee successfully filibustered by members of only one party.

Schumer stirred up to the point where these considerations of judges now, the water is poisoned, said Grassley. We have all of these disputes over judges and filibusters that Im sure he's sorry he took us down that road. But he did that during the Bush administration, and thats the pattern that we have.



The New Yorker doesn't need to show his combative side  so far  as the Senate prepares for another Supreme Court fight. Schumer has vowed that the chamber will conduct a fair process and move swiftly to confirm whoever Biden nominates. Democrats theoretically dont need Republicans to confirm Bidens pick. And despite Democratic Sen. Ben Ray Lujans (N.M.) absence from a recent stroke, a Schumer spokesperson said its not expected to affect the timeline for the confirmation.

This is a big responsibility. And I know he feels it, said Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), who served on the panel with Schumer until the latter took over the caucus. Weve talked about it over the weekend. And we want to do it right.

South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, who's viewed as one of the most likely Republicans to support Bidens pick, predicted that Schumer would follow a road map already set out, but one that might change depending on how much cross-aisle support Democrats and the Biden administration are seeking.

Are they trying to get somebody that can actually get Republican votes in large numbers? Who is their audience? If the audience is the left, that will dictate one path, Graham said. If the audience is this group of ladies that could do the best with Republicans, thats another path  Thats up to the White House. I think Sen. Schumer is going to make sure that the process is handled consistently with what weve done in the past.

The upcoming Supreme Court confirmation will be the first time Democrats can capitalize on a rules change Senate Republicans made in 2017, allowing high-court justices to be confirmed by a simple majority vote. Republicans saw that shift as a response to a 2013 change by then-Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.), allowing simple-majority confirmations of circuit court and district court nominees. At the time, the late Reid cited the GOP filibustering of President Barack Obamas nominees.

Republicans say Schumer's early encouragement of judicial filibusters has contributed to the politicization of the courts and erosion of the Senate. Yet Democrats who knew him at the time say he predicted the influence of the Federalist Society in the conservative legal world.

Schumers longstanding interest in the federal judiciary dates back to his days on the House Judiciary Committee, and is evident to this day as he prioritizes the confirmation of Bidens judges on the Senate floor. He announces whenever he makes a recommendation to the White House for judicial nominations. He takes pride in pushing for Justice Sonia Sotomayor's nomination to the Supreme Court, even before there was a vacancy.



Former Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.), who sat on the Judiciary Committee with Schumer, recalled the New Yorker's attunement to judicial confirmations emerging during Bush's first term, when he would hold strategy sessions back then with Judiciary panel colleagues.

He immediately made the proper composition of the courts and the confirmation of judges his top priority, Feingold said. What he was doing was what a good legislator does ... identify an issue that others havent really put the time into and said Look, this really matters.

At the start of the George W. Bush administration, the Senate  like today  was divided 50-50. In the spring of 2001, Democrats convened for a retreat in Farmington, Pa., to discuss judicial nominees and heard from a panel of law professors including Laurence Tribe and Cass Sunstein, who later served in the Obama administration. Tribe and Sunstein warned then that the Bush administration planned to name hard-line conservatives to the federal bench and encouraged Democrats to take a tougher stance.

Several weeks later, Schumer, who chaired Judiciary's subcommittee on courts, convened a hearing on whether political ideology should play a role in judicial nominations. That question has surfaced in multiple confirmation hearings since and is expected to do so again as Biden makes his Supreme Court pick.

If the president uses ideology in deciding whom to nominate to the bench, the Senate, as part of its responsibility to advise and consent, should do the same in deciding whom to confirm, Schumer wrote in a 2001 New York Times op-ed. Pretending that ideology doesn't matter  or, even worse, doesn't exist  is exactly the opposite of what the Senate should do.
Chief Minister of Manipur N Biren Singh on Thursday said that it was a tradition in Manipuri culture to remove shoes while entering someone's home. Singh was responding to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remarks about a Manipuri delegation being asked to remove their shoes before entering Union Minister Amit Shah's house. Taking to Twitter Biren Singh wrote, "It's an aged old tradition in Manipuri culture to remove our shoes while we enter somebody's house. Those lapdogs spreading it to be some form of insult are oblivious to Manipuri culture. Mr Rahul Gandhi may kindly take note of some Manipuri culture before speaking about Manipur." Rahul Gandhi had on Wednesday during the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address in Lok Sabha claimed a Manipuri delegation team was insulted by the Home Minister in Delhi. "A few days ago an 'agitated' Manipuri delegation team told me that they were insulted by the Home Minister when they went to meet him at his house in Delhi. When asked, they said that they were made to take off their shoes outside before entering the Home Minister's house. But after entering the house they found the Home Minister himself in his chappals." "What exactly does this mean? Why is that in the Home Minister's house he can wear chappal but a delegation team from Manipur can't," Gandhi further said. Meanwhile, Manipur BJP leader Th. Biswajit Singh took a dig at Rahul Gandhi saying a person who "admires Italy" would never understand India's culture. He tweeted, "For a person who admires #ITALY will never understand India's Culture! Dear #RahulGandhi STOP Misleading the Nation! Spare Manipur & try your techniques somewhere else! With every such steps you are inching closer to #CongressMukhtManipur." The two-phase Manipur assembly election to the 60-member House is scheduled on February 27 and March 3. (ANI)
A Twitter video posted by Reuters senior reporter Hamid Shalizi appears to show Taliban soldiers enjoying bumper car rides. HamidShalizi/Twitter

Fighters have also been banned from wearing uniforms and bringing vehicles into the parks.

Videos of Taliban fighters having fun at the parks emerged after they took over the country in August.

According to a Reuters report, the move is part of the Taliban's efforts to soften their image.

Taliban fighters have been banned from carrying their weapons into Afghanistan's amusement parks, said the group's lead spokesperson on Wednesday.

They will also not be allowed to wear uniforms or bring vehicles into such places, said Zabihullah Mujahid on Twitter. "Mujahidin are obliged to abide by all the rules and regulations of amusement parks," he said in the post.

Wednesday's announcement was part of the group's effort to soften its public image, Reuters reported.

Shortly after the group's takeover of the country last August, videos appeared to show armed Taliban fighters at play on amusement park rides. In one video, fighters carrying assault rifles were seen riding bumper cars.

Some fighters had earlier told Reuters that they were eager to visit the parks before returning to their duties in other parts of the country.

Zabihullah (..   ) (@Zabehulah_M33) February 2, 2022

The Taliban took over as Afghanistan's new rulers on August 15, 2021, following the fall of the country's capital city of Kabul. Since then, the group has struggled to feed its population of 39 million people, with more than 20 million estimated to be on the brink of famine.

According to The New York Times, more than a million Afghans have tried to flee the country since the Taliban takeover.

Read the original article on Insider
South African mobile communications company Vodacom Group and Amdocs, a provider of software and services to the communications and media industry, announced the creation of the African Centre of Excellence (CoE), which will assist the telco with operational efficiencies.

The COE will enable Vodacom to deliver next-generation experiences to its customers in Tanzania, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by introducing a standardized, flexible configuration, monitoring, and monetization of differentiated services while providing a unified IT architecture across the three countries, said a press release from the mobile operator.

According to the release, the centre will be launched as soon as all operational and commercial details have been finalised.

The centre will enable Vodacom to launch new products and services, including bringing 5G services to its customers, with the backing of Amdocss Openet charging solutions, it said.

Dejan Kastelic, Group Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Vodacom, said: Vodacom will continue to seek strategic partnerships as we evolve from a telco to a techco. This will allow us to realise our Tech 2025 strategy by investing in modern network technologies and digital IT systems to scale our products and services. Vodacoms partnership with Amdocs enables us to move to cloud-native, standardized architecture and develop a single Center of Excellence in Africa which will, in turn, allow us to deliver a consistent, next-generation customer experience across our operations.

Anthony Goonetilleke, Group President of Technology and Head of Strategy at Amdocs said: Were passionate about creating the best-connected experiences, and Vodacoms adoption of a unified, 5G-ready architecture means more rapidly bringing those experiences to life for customers in Tanzania, Mozambique, and the DRC.
Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

Bloomberg: UK intends to sign agreement on LNG supplies from U.S. for up to 20 years

China's former justice minister sentenced to death

Jermuk: Changes in Jermuk resort town after Azerbaijani attack (photo report)

Jermuk-Yerevan-Jermuk shuttle service already operating

Armenian Genocide Memorials Memory Ally area to be expanded

Biden to Pashinyan: We remain committed to promote peaceful resolution to conflict, including for people of Karabakh

Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

Aggression-affected IDPs from Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor to be provided with financial assistance

Peskov declines to comment on his son's refusal to report to military registration and enlistment office

Belgian parliamentary delegation visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

Peskov comments on reports of agitation at airports and checkpoints

Russia air carrier to conduct additional flights to Armenia, Turkey

Kazakhstan parliament passes law to exclude Day of First President from state holidays

US Congressman Schiff: These atrocities will continue until international community condemns Aliyev

Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

Senator: the U.S. must stop providing security assistance to Azerbaijan

Armenia, Finland FMs discuss Karabakh conflict settlement process

CSTO Secretary General, Armenia army chief discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

Armenia FM to Red Cross president: Azerbaijan crimes impunity makes aggressor more reckless (PHOTOS)

Greece politician condemns Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

Iran, Russia and China to hold joint naval drills

Iran army chief: We will not allow changes in borders in region

Parliament speaker: We expect our Belgian colleagues to continue efforts for Armenian POWs return from Azerbaijan

Karabakh FM discusses Artsakh foreign policy with group of US Congress members, senators

Relatives of those who died and those who were injured in Yerevan market explosion to get one-time financial aid

Copper rises in price

Truss says Russia is not threatened by anyone

Crime report is sent to Armenia Prosecutor General regarding recent harassment toward reporters in parliament

Armenia FM to International Crisis Group head: Azerbaijan trying to achieve its maximalist demands by using force

Gold prices fall below $1670 per ounce

Borrell announces new sanctions on Russia because of referendums

Oil prices move to some growth

Blinken says US will continue to support Ukraine

Newspaper: Armenia 3 ex-presidents, Catholicos to meet soon

Armenia FM in New York, meets with UN Secretary General special adviser on genocide prevention

Russian soldiers are exchanged with 215 Ukrainian POWs

Newspaper: PM urges political teammates not to do anything drastic regarding topic of Armenia leaving CSTO

Bulgaria gets closer to buying the second batch of eight new F-16s

Armenia FM to Sweden counterpart: International community must restrain Azerbaijan military aggression

FM briefs Nicaragua colleague on consequences of Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

2 of 3 injured in Yerevan market damaged building collapse discharged from hospital

Britain decides to revise its defense and security plan

Iranian parliament says border violation due to aggravation between Armenia and Azerbaijan unacceptable

Pashinyan leaves for New York

Biden not to restrict imports of neodymium magnets from China

No threat to life of serviceman wounded by Azerbaijani Armed Forces shelling

EU's desire for independence from Russian gas will lead to slowdown of economy, rising inflation and fall of euro

Biden to release 10 million barrels of oil ahead of EU ban on Russian oil

Earthquake in Iran felt in Armenia

Armenian Defense Ministry: Azerbaijan opens fire at Armenian positions, one wounded

EU begins to develop new sanctions against Russia

Canada is committed to further deepening bilateral relations and supporting strengthening of democracy in Armenia

MEPs investigating use of spyware by EU governments criticize Poland and Israel

Union of Armenians of Russia plans to send help to Armenia, Ara Abrahamyan holds meetings with Russian leadership

Armenian FM meets with USAID Director

Germany, Slovenia sign agreement for Slovenia to send 28 Soviet tanks to Ukraine

Azerbaijani president makes aggressive statements about Armenia

Greece extends subsidies for energy bills ahead of 'winter battle'
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Australia Post has been ordered to pay a Melbourne couple more than $3000 after repeatedly failing to deliver parcels to their home during the pandemic, instead leaving them at the local post office.

Eltham resident Wade Short took the national postal service to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal last year after growing increasingly frustrated by the poor delivery service to his address.

A Melbourne couple have won $3100 in compensation after Australia Post repeatedly failed to deliver parcels to their address during the pandemic. Credit:Jessica Shapiro

Deliveries were not made when Mr Short and his partner were at home. Instead, cards were left at their address, instructing them to pick up the parcels at the post office, a practice known as carding.

Some parcels were left at the front door without their doorbell being rung, while others were flung up the external stairs to the couples front door. Mr Short said the driver falsely claimed his stairs were unsafe to climb.
Married At First Sight groom-to-be Brent Vitiello faced his biggest fear of feet on his wedding day.

And the 33-year-old was left shocked after his bride Tamara Djordjevic revealed she has a distorted toe during their honeymoon on Thursday night.

'I have many imperfections but one imperfection is my toes,' Tamara, 29, said as the pair relaxed in bed.

Honeymoon from hell! 'Psychopath' MAFS bride Tamara Djordjevic left her feet-fearing groom Brett Vitiello shocked as she revealed her toe nail is fake

A shocked Brent responded: 'Don't go into detail because than I will overthink it... I have enough reasons to not sleep tonight.'

'That toe nail is fake, it's not a real toe nail. That's why it looks different,' Tamara said, pointing to her feet.

It comes after Brent revealed the 'terrifying' experience he had with his new bride.

'That toe nail is fake, it's not a real toe nail. That's why it looks different,' Tamara said, as the pair relaxed in bed

After their first night as newlyweds, he told Tamara he woke up to her screaming during the night.

'You turned and you were right near me screaming really loudly. And I jumped and I was trying to tap you,' he said.

Brent told cameras: 'It was eventful. She's been known to scream in her sleep. It was like a horror movie rather than a honeymoon.'

A shocked Brent responded: 'Don't go into detail because than I will overthink it... I have enough reasons to not sleep tonight'

Tamara had clashed with Sydney hospitality specialist Brent just minutes after saying 'I do' during Monday night's premiere.

But the most awkward moment came later in the ceremony when judgmental Tamara turned on Brent after finding out he worked at a nightclub - which turned out to be only half true.

Fussy bride Tamara was immediately disappointed by her affable groom when they met at the altar.

'He does seem like an average kind of guy. Average just isn't for me. I'm not average. I don't do average,' the surgically enhanced blonde told producers.

That's awkward! It comes after Brent revealed the 'terrifying' experience he had with his new bride. After their first night as newlyweds, he told Tamara he woke up to her screaming during the night

Mismatch: Tamara had clashed with Sydney hospitality specialist Brent just minutes after saying 'I do' during Monday night's premiere

Just moments after exchanging vows, Tamara asked Brent where he lived and what he did for a living.

Tamara was lost for words when Brent told her he worked at a popular Sydney nightclub, which she assumed meant he was a party boy.

While Brent's line of work occasionally requires him to go to nightclubs, he is actually an events manager who previously ran a successful business in Dubai.

When he clarified this point, Tamara was visibly relieved.
A Rwandan woman works in Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products in Kigali, Rwanda, on Jan. 28, 2022. Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products has transformed the lives of local Rwandans through job creation and improved household income. (Photo by Huang Wanqing/Xinhua)

KIGALI, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products has transformed the lives of local Rwandans through job creation and improved household income.

The factory, which officially expanded its presence in Rwanda in 2019, has offered skills training to Rwandans, giving them access to productive jobs, and hence ensuring a better standard of living.

"When I got employment in this factory, I worked hard with passion to realize my dreams. Due to my hard work after one year, I was promoted to a supervisor position. I performed my duties exceptionally well during my tenure as supervisor, and now I have been promoted to production manager," Fabrice Tuyishime, one of the employees at the garment factory, told Xinhua.

He said the Chinese experts at the factory have equipped him with knowledge and skills in tailoring and he is now an expert in fashion designs and production.

"Before being employed by this company, I was poor and had nothing in terms of assets. After joining the factory, I got a job and started earning a salary, I bought a piece of land, I am now able to pay school fees for my siblings," said Tuyishime.

"The Chinese experts are good people, they have trained us to be responsible people in future and contribute to the economic growth of our country. We are grateful for their knowledge and skills," he added.

In 2019, Pink Mango C&D signed an agreement with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) for the establishment of a modern garment factory in Kigali Special Economic zone that will produce garments for both the domestic and export market.

The factory produces a wide range of garments, which include waterproof jackets, winter jackets, fleece jackets, padded jackets, quilted jackets, rainwear, windbreaker, work wear, sportswear, casual wear, T-shirts, nightwear, and trousers among others.

Tuyishime is among thousands of workers at the factory who have benefited a lot through job opportunities, skills and technology in fashion design and tailoring transfer and improved household income.

Pink Mango C&D is a good company that employs young people without skills and teaches them as well as gives them an opportunity to contribute to their career growth, said Evelyne Ryezembere, Human Resource Coordinator at C&D.

"When I joined this factory about one year and a half years ago, I learnt a lot of skills from the Chinese experts. When I started here, we had 1,200 employees and now we have more than 3,000 employees. This shows a huge human resource impact in terms of increased employment opportunities," said Ryezembere.

According to her, the factory has attractive salary packages compared to other companies and institutions in Rwanda.

"We have a wide range of bonuses. For example there is an attendance bonus if employees get to work every day and on time. They get a bonus payment on top of their salaries," said Ryezembere.

"We also have a target bonus which encourages our employees to work hard and more. We also have a social responsibility policy where we have opened a kindergarten for the children of our employees, most especially young mothers," she said.

The kindergarten provides employees' children with comprehensive services for their early childhood development growth and reduces the time used by young mothers to go back home to breastfeed, hence increasing work productivity while assuring the safety of their children.

"When parents finish work, they take their children back home. This is one of the best things we do on the social side of our social responsibility as Pink Mango C&D," she said.

"We have plans of opening up a clinic here, as well as a retail shop where our employees can buy goods at an affordable price. I am very happy to be part of this factory. The factory has changed the lives of our employees for the better because they are able to pay school fees for their children, pay health insurance, buy home basic necessities and improve their social and economic status," she said.

"Our company's philosophy has always been that of mutual benefit. Regardless of our companies in Europe, Asia or Africa, we appreciate a balanced attitude," said Gu Jingyong, Chairman of C&D Group.

"Our company is not only pursuing profits, but also we hope to take root in one place for a long time, in the process, we will consider what we can bring to this country, we bring technology, we hope to improve the living standard of local people, and at the same time the government can get more foreign exchange income through exports," he said.

"We are also committed to guarantee our workers improve living and medical conditions as well as provide insurance for them. Our target is to be the largest and best jacket garment factory in Africa. The biggest and best is not about profit, but to recruit more workers, so we plan to recruit 7,500 workers in Rwanda," he explained. 

A Rwandan man works in Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products in Kigali, Rwanda, on Jan. 28, 2022. Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products has transformed the lives of local Rwandans through job creation and improved household income. (Photo by Huang Wanqing/Xinhua)

Rwandan people work in Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products in Kigali, Rwanda, on Jan. 28, 2022. Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products has transformed the lives of local Rwandans through job creation and improved household income. (Photo by Huang Wanqing/Xinhua)

A Rwandan woman works in Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products in Kigali, Rwanda, on Jan. 28, 2022. Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products has transformed the lives of local Rwandans through job creation and improved household income. (Photo by Huang Wanqing/Xinhua)

Rwandan people work in Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products in Kigali, Rwanda, on Jan. 28, 2022. Chinese garment factory Pink Mango C&D products has transformed the lives of local Rwandans through job creation and improved household income. (Photo by Huang Wanqing/Xinhua)
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], February 3 (ANI/PRNewswire): HyperVerge, a Silicon Valley based AI company that provides KYC solutions, recently announced that they ranked fourth globally for contactless travel of passengers in a tie with the first three algorithms on the National Institute of Standards (NIST) FRVT Paperless Travel leader board.

This validates that HyperVerge's facial recognition technology is among the most advanced in the market.

Amongst Identity verification companies, HyperVerge is far ahead of its competition in all the geographies they operate in.

Globally, it has surpassed some big companies like NTech Labs, Clearview AI, Incode and NEC.

Their scores are currently tied with Paravision, SenseTime & VisionLabs. They rank 1st in India & SEA, 2nd in US & Europe, and 3rd outside China.

Apart from this benchmark, HyperVerge's facial recognition systems can compare a face against hundreds of millions of records in real-time. These breakthroughs allow HyperVerge to power multiple use cases for their customers

As airports slowly move towards contactless travel for passengers, HyperVerge is well-suited to become a worldwide leader in kiosk-based self-check-in leveraging face biometrics. They have ranked in the top 10 globally on the "Visa Kiosk" leaderboard of FRVT 1:N, apart from ranking 4th on the Paperless Travel leaderboard.

They can power entirely automated Pay-by-Face solutions at kiosks and retail outlets that necessitate incredibly high reliability.

Banks, digital lenders, securities & brokerages, crypto-exchanges can detect fraud with increased accuracy while onboarding new consumers.

In addition to this, HyperVerge is also only 1 of 3 companies globally with Level-1 ISO-30107 certification by iBeta for its (https://hyperverge.co/blog/understanding-liveness-checks-the-key-to-protect-your-face-recognition-from-spoof-attacks) single image liveness module.

HyperVerge's rankings on the NIST FRVT leaderboard can be found at (https://pages.nist.gov/frvt/html/frvt_paperless_travel.html) FRVT Paperless Travel and more analysis on their submission (https://pages.nist.gov/frvt/reportcards/1N/hyperverge_001.pdf) here.

HyperVerge is a leading provider of identity verification and KYC solutions. It has verified more than 500 million identities till date. HyperVerge's AI models lead the market on accuracy and recall values, precisely optimized for deployments in low bandwidth environments. Their deep-learning networks drive applications for large enterprise clients in industries like BFSI, crypto, telecom, e-commerce etc.

This story is provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PRNewswire)

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI/ATK): When the world of online-based business was fast-growing, a skilled mind, Chirag Goswami, welcomed his new venture "The Bixby Network." The online presence of your brand is the need of the hour. The Bixby Network is one such company that specializes in making sure your ad gets placed where the target audience can see it. Online presence is what you need to attract more customers to gain credibility and The Bixby Network sure knows how to assist brands to create that awareness. The company managed to get noticed by helping brands make their online presence with ads through media buying. The company is as unique as its name and over the years has made sure to not place everyone's ads in the same spot. Over the past 10 years, The Bixby Network has expanded the company internationally and now has a US EIN company incorporation certificate. Speaking of the company, Goswami near the end of 2020 incorporated Delaware, USA-based Private Limited Liability company "The Bixby Network LLC '' and it is almost 1 year 6 months old to date. A company that is fairly young in comparison to other leading advertising firms has grown immensely and managed to target international brands. As we speak, the brand is working towards some of your adorned brands being huge in the upcoming months. Chirag, the CEO, is a veterinary doctor by profession and with his little yet useful advertising skills is making a mark in the industry. Growing up in a small town, his interest in mobiles and the digital techno field were visible. Initially, he allocated a very hard time approx. 18 hrs. a day to keep inventing different marketing strategies with social media platforms. By 2014, Chirag hired developers and freelancers from Europe and Asia who helped him over his digital media path. After working with 150+ Top international Media companies and Direct advertisers and attending International Affiliate Conferences which were held in Bangkok, Berlin - Germany & Dubai regularly,His determination is proof enough that he is the ideal solution when it comes to growing your brand's online presence. That being said, the brand is expanding and how, they are going to attend the affiliate world global Dubai 2022 in February 28th which will be held at Dubai world trade center. This will indeed help the brand make new connections with huge companies and expand business for the upcoming quarter of the year! This story is provided by ATK. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/ATK)
Spain to scrap mandatory outdoor masks

Spain will lift a requirement for people to wear masks outdoors as a measure against the coronavirus, extending a wider rollback of restrictions as the contagion slowly recedes in the country. The cabinet plans to approve an end to mandatory outdoor mask wearing at its weekly meeting on Tuesday and make it effective two days later, Health Minister Carolina Darias told Cadena SER radio station on Friday.

Mask wearing outdoors was reinstated in late December to curb the spread of the emergent Omicron variant of the coronavirus. "We said it would last only while it was strictly necessary," Darias said. As contagion rates and other indicators have fallen for several days, the government considers the Covid-19 situation to have eased, she said. Spain follows several other European countries that have begun to roll back Covid-related restrictions. Outdoor masks are no longer compulsory in France and Italy announced on Wednesday it would release a timetable for a phase-out of restrictions. Regional authorities in Spain's Northern Aragon and Basque Country regions as well as in the Canary Islands have also lifted some restrictions on socialising. Aragon dropped a rule requiring a Covid vaccination or PCR test certificate to access bars and restaurants and scrapped all restrictions on opening hours and capacity. The Basque Country stopped requiring the pass and Canary Islands now permits bars and restaurants to ask for it on voluntary basis. Catalonia, Spain's second largest region, scrapped the Covid pass requirement a week ago.

Over the past two weeks, the Covid-19 contagion rate in Spain has steadily fallen, reaching 2,421 cases per 100,000 people on Thursday, down from almost 3,400 in early January. Despite the surge in cases between November and January as Omicron spread, hospital admissions and deaths remain well below those seen in earlier waves of the pandemic. This is thanks largely to Spain's high vaccination rate and Omicron's apparent tendency to cause less serious illness than previous variants.

Spain's total death toll from the pandemic stands at 94,040 and the number of cases at 10.2 million.
The Supreme Court on Thursday directed Punjab Police not to arrest Lok Insaaf Party leader and Punjab MLA Simarjeet Singh Bains for a week. A Bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana and Justices AS Bopanna and Hima Kohli asked Punjab state to file a reply on the petitions filed by Punjab MLA Simarjeet Singh Bains. Bains has challenged a Ludhiana court order which issued arrest warrants against him after he failed to appear in a case against rape allegations. The court, which was also dealing with a petition filed by the complainant lady challenging the cases against her, also asked the Punjab state to file a reply on her petitions too. Meanwhile, the court also stayed proceedings of cases against the complainant lady for two weeks. The court also questioned the Bains counsel that he has seen the attitude of his client, who is the MLA of two times. The court asked the Advocate General of Punjab what is happening in the state and how many cases did state file against that lady andsaid the state cannot be a party to such misuse of police machinery. During the hearing, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi appearing for Bains, told the court that she is allegedly running fake job rackets for Canada. He told the court that his client is not behind any cases filed against her and the complaint has not been filed by him but other people. The Supreme Court on January 25 restrained the Punjab government from arresting Lok Insaaf Party leader and Punjab MLA Simarjeet Singh Bains till today in an alleged rape case. The complainant had opposed the plea of Bains. (ANI)
Amid calls of boycott for Beijing Winter Olympics, the East Turkistan Government-in-Exile (ETGE) on Tuesday urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to launch an investigation into the genocide and other crimes against humanity being committed by Chinese officials against Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, and other Turkic peoples of East Turkistan. Lawyers for the East Turkistan Government in Exile and the East Turkistan National Awakening Movement had filed a formal legal complaint to the ICC on July 6, 2020. The legal team was in Istanbul to collect further evidence and testimony from victims and survivors in the Uyghur diaspora community of Istanbul, the ETGE press release said. The East Turkistan Government in Exile, Human Rights Watch Association of East Turkistan, the Association of Turkic World Solidarity and Cooperation, a legal team led by British lawyer Rodney Dixon QC as well as the Uyghur diaspora residing in Turkey held a news conference at a hotel in the Zeytinburnu district of Istanbul, added the release. The ETGE in unison with several NGOs and the victims from East Turkistan also urged Turkey to recognize the genocide in East Turkistan Prime Minister Salih Hudayar of the ETGE sent a video message urging the Turkish Government, civil society, and the Turkish people to support the plight of East Turkistan and its people, the release added. "We urge Turkey to support East Turkistan's case at the ICC and we humbly request the Republic of Turkey to uphold its commitments to defending the oppressed by filing a parallel case against China at the International Court of Justice," said Prime Minister Salih Hudayar. "It is important that Turkey's Government and Parliament stand up to China by recognizing China's ongoing genocide in East Turkistan as a genocide," he added. Turkish lawyer Gulden Sonmez, who is heading East Turkistanis legal complaint against China at the Istanbul Court of Justice, also urged Turkey's Government to act and come to the aid of East Turkistan. She also urged Turkey to release Uyghurs who are being held in immigration detention centres across Turkey, as well as helping Uyghurs like Idris Hasan, who has been extra-judicially detained upon arrival in Morocco since July 2021, said the release. Halit Kanak, the head of the Association of Turkic World Solidarity and Cooperation, said the group urged the ICC to investigate China which will host the 2022 Olympic Winter Games in Beijing beginning later this week. China would be hosting the Winter Olympics from February 4 -20 with around 3,000 athletes competing in 109 different events and the Paralympics from March 4-13, with 736 competitors across 78 events. British Lawyer Rodney QC said available evidence suggested that the number of Uyghurs deported from China's neighbour, Tajikistan, rose sharply from 2016 to 2018, and their population residing there declined by 85 per cent, said the release. "The evidence submitted to the ICC collected through an in-depth field investigation in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan confirm this," he said. Rodney Dixon QC also said if an investigation is launched, it would be the first of its kind in Central Asia. He also stated that the fourth dossier of evidence was planned to be submitted weeks ahead. Since the Chinese government was awarded the 2022 Winter Games in 2015, non-governmental organizations and media outlets have documented numerous serious human rights violations by Chinese authorities. These include arbitrary detention, torture, and forced labour of millions of Uyghurs and other Turkic groups in Xinjiang (the Uyghur region); the decimation of independent media, democratic institutions, and rule of law in Hong Kong; high-tech surveillance systems enabling authorities to track and unjustly prosecute peaceful conduct, including criticism shared through apps and many other human rights violations. (ANI)
Arrivals registered in tourist reception structures increased in 2021 by 46.4% compared to the previous year, to 9.276 million, with those of Romanian tourists representing 90.9%, and of foreign ones - 9.1%, informs a National Institute of Statistics (INS) release, Agerpres reports.

As to the arrivals of foreign tourists in the tourist reception structures, the largest share was held by those from Europe (78.4% of the total foreign tourists), and of these 76.8% come from the European Union countries.The number of overnight stays registered in the tourist reception structures in 2021 amounted to 20.653 million, an increase of 43.0% compared to those in 2020.The average length of stay in 2021 was 2.2 days for both Romanian and foreign tourists.The index of net use of tourist accommodation in 2021 was 26.5% of total tourist accommodation structures, increasing by 3.6 percentage points compared to 2020.The arrivals of foreign visitors in Romania, registered at the border checkpoints, were in 2021 of 6.788 million people, increasing by 35.2% compared to 2020.The departures of Romanian visitors abroad, registered at the border checkpoints, were in 2021 of 11.642 million people, increasing by 22.4% compared to 2020.Also, the arrivals registered in the tourist reception structures in December 2021 amounted to 579,300 persons, increasing by 69.5% compared to those of December 2020. Out of the total number of arrivals, in December 2021, the arrivals of Romanian tourists in tourist accommodation units accounted for 90.4%, while foreign tourists accounted for only 9.6%.Regarding the arrivals of foreign tourists in the tourist reception structures, the largest share was held by those from Europe (76.9% of the total foreign tourists), and of these 72.3% came from European Union countries.The average length of stay in December 2021 was 1.9 days for Romanian tourists and 2.3 days for foreign tourists.The index of net use of tourist accommodation in December 2021 was 19.1% of total tourist accommodation structures, increasing by 6.9 percentage points compared to December 2020.The arrivals of foreign visitors in Romania, registered at the border checkpoints, were in December 2021 of 546,900 persons, increasing by 92.2% compared to December 2020.The departures of Romanian visitors abroad registered at the border checkpoints were in December 2021 of 822,500 people, increasing by 83.0% compared to December 2020.
Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso said in an interview with Xinhua that reactivating the economy is key to Ecuador's post-pandemic recovery, and China's support is vital.

Lasso is set to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics during a visit to China from Feb. 3 to 6.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service 
The planned demonstration by the Coalition of Concerned University Students (CoCUS) on Thursday, February 3 has been postponed.

According to CoCUS, it received communication from the Accra Regional Police Command of the Ghana Police Service on an emergency Extraordinary Summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Ghanas capital city on same day and, consequently, advised the students to delay their action by one more day.

But the students, in a release on Thursday, February 3, claim these are all machinations to sabotage our good cause of advocating for the ordinary Ghanaian university student.

However, we remain focused as a strong team to stand firm and refuse to be compromised in any way.

The conveners hinted at going back to the drawing board.

In this vein, the CoCUS postpones the demonstration till further notice.

All Ghanaian students, parents and compatriots of the general public and all stakeholders should continue to support us in the fight.

The demonstration was to see the students march to the Jubilee House and Parliament to get government to address concerns of their lecturers, who have been on strike for the past four weeks.

They claimed they have been the victims of the tussle between government and the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG).

3news.com
It should have been an unqualified moment of triumph: the definitive identification of the remains of HMB Endeavour, the vessel James Cook sailed to Australia in 1770.

A mystery that had bedevilled historians and maritime archaeologists for decades, it seemed, had finally been solved.

The Morrison government and Australian Maritime Museum left little room for doubt on Thursday when they announced with much fanfare that a particular wreck in Newport Harbour, off the coast of Rhode Island, was the Endeavour.

I am satisfied that this is the final resting place of one of the most important and contentious vessels in Australias maritime history, Maritime Museum chief executive and director Kevin Sumption told reporters.
On January 24, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Zhao Lijian tweeted photographs of children picking up bullet casings and mortar shells in rubble, saying [a]fter 20 years war, this is what the US has brought to the children in Afghanistan.

Those photos, in fact, were of children in Idlib, northwest Syria, according to the photographer who took them.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman has published photos taken by me in Idlib and claims that 'this is what the United States brought to the children in Afghanistan', but in fact, this is what the Syrian regime and Russian forces brought to the children in Idlib, said Ali Haj Suleiman on January 27, tweeting a screenshot of Zhaos post.

Suleimans photo series, Shells of War, was awarded an honorable mention in the UNICEF Photo of the Year Awards in December 2021. The series documents Syrian children collecting scrap metal for sale in Idlib, the last rebel-held province in the war-torn country.

Zhao deleted his tweet after Suleiman called him out. However, the images Zhao posted had been retweeted among his 1.1 million followers on Twitter and widely shared on Chinas Twitter-like Weibo. Chinas Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Hua Chunying, who is Zhaos fellow spokesperson for the ministry, posted the same tweet and later deleted it.

Suleiman told Radio Free Asia (RFA), the Voice of Americas (VOA) sister organization, that the Chinese officials neither issued a correction for the misrepresentation nor apologized for using his photos without permission.

Im so angry because what the officials are doing is changing the truth, Suleiman said in a written statement to RFA. Its so annoying when you see officials in countries trying to change the facts.

This is not the first time officials from Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs misused pictures to criticize the Wests military involvement in Afghanistan.

Last November, Zhao posted on Twitter a graphic, computer-generated illustration depicting a grinning Australian soldier holding a bloodied knife to the throat of an Afghan child. The tweet was in reference to an Australian inquiry into alleged war crimes by its soldiers in Afghanistan.

Australian lawmakers and Prime Minister Scott Morrison demanded China delete the image and formally apologize. Neither demand was met. Twitter also refused Morrisons request to remove the doctored photo.

Suleimans photos reflected the dire consequences of the Syrian civil war, which has dragged out for more than a decade.

The United Nations identified 350,209 civilian casualties from the war between March 2011, when the conflict erupted, and March 2021. The U.N. said the tally indicated a minimum verifiable number and is certainly an undercount of the actual number of killings.

The U.K.-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights estimated in June 2021 that the conflict had claimed 494,438 lives since 2011, Agence France-Presse reported.

The war created the worlds biggest refugee crisis, with the U.N. refugee agency estimating the number of Syrian refugees and asylum seekers at 6.8 million.

What began in 2011 as popular and peaceful protests against President Bashar al-Assads regime, calling for reform and an end to its corruption, quickly escalated into a brutal civil and proxy war between Assads government, backed by Russia, Iran and Hezbollah, and anti-government rebel groups, backed by the United States, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Kurds.

Syrian civilians, many of them women and children, have been victims of brutality. While all parties to the conflict, the U.S.-led coalition included, have been accused of human rights violations and war crimes, the Assad regime has by far perpetrated most of the violence against civilians, The New York Times reported.

The Assad regime has been accused of repeatedly using chemical weapons, including the Ghouta chemical attack in 2013, the 2017 chemical attack in Khan Shaykhun, a town in southern rebel-held Idlib province, and the Douma chemical attack in 2018.

Syrian government forces have also used conventional weapons, aerial bombardment, siege, starvation and expulsion against civilians.

The Chinese government is participating in the ongoing massacre against the Syrian people through its use of its veto in the Security Council against decisions aimed at deterring the Syrian regime from killing the people and even against decisions to pass humanitarian aid to Syrians across the border, Suleiman told RFA.

China, however, has kept a relatively low profile compared to the main parties directly involved in military action. China has used its veto power in the U.N. Security Council numerous times in alignment with Russia to side with the Assad regime.

One example: China and Russia vetoed twice in a week resolutions by Western Security Council members to extend the delivery of humanitarian aid from Turkey across border crossings into Idlib and Aleppo provinces, Reuters reported in July 2020. The remaining Security Council members all voted in favor of the resolutions.

The United Nations said humanitarian aid delivered from Turkey was a lifeline for millions of Syrian civilians in the countrys northwest.

China has provided humanitarian aid to Syria through bilateral and multilateral channels. It has also participated in conflict mediation efforts on Syria by attending peace talks like the Geneva I and Geneva II peace conferences, the Vienna peace talks, and by welcoming the Astana Peace Process initiated by Russia, Iran and Turkey.

In vetoing multiple U.N. resolutions on Syria, China claimed it based those decisions on its longstanding declared policy of respecting state sovereignty and not interfering in the internal affairs of other nations.

Chinas Syria policy has been driven mainly by its security and economic objectives in the region, according to Giorgio Cafiero, CEO and founder of Gulf State Analytics, a geopolitical risk consultancy based in Washington, D.C.

Beijing wants to build a strong partnership with Damascus to maintain friendly ties and cooperate on counter-terrorism issues, Cafiero wrote. Second, economically, the Chinese leadership seeks a Sino-Syrian relationship that helps Beijing advance its vision for the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The BRI is Chinas plan to build a network of infrastructure projects across Asia and Africa, fostering economic ties and enhancing its trade prospects.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been moved in the Delhi High Court seeking court direction for admission of children belonging to weaker sections and disadvantaged groups to every seat they are entitled to. The Plea seeks court direction to Delhi Government to ensure the admission of over 44,000 children belonging EWS/DG under the provisions of section 12(1)(c) of RTE Act, 2009 either by processing the applications already pending with them or by the exercise of the jurisdiction conferred to the chairperson District admission monitoring committee under the provisions of clause 7 of Gazette notification extraordinary dated 07.01.2011. The petition has been moved by 'Justice for All', an organization of lawyers and social activists, through Advocates Khagesh B. Jha and Shikha Sharma Bagga. It seeks direction to the respondent Director of Education to initiate action against schools that failed to admitthe students allotted seats in their schools It also seeks direction from the respondents Delhi Commission of protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) and the National Commission for protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) to perform their duty under sections 31 and 32 of the RTE Act, 2009 and monitor the process of admission of children. The matter was listed on Thursday before the Division bench headed by Chief Justice Delhi which transferred the matter to another Division bench which already examining several related matters for hearing the matter for Friday (tomorrow). The plea which has made a party to several repudiated private schools of Delhi further alleges the blatant violation of the fundamental rights of over 50,000 children waiting for admission since April 2021 and victims of the government inaction to perform their duty imposed with them under the provisions of articles 19(1)(a), 21 and 21A of Constitution of India. with the provisions of section 12(1)(c) of the RTE Act, 2009, the plea is seeking indulgence from this court to ensure their admission against the seats reserved for them under the above-stated scheme to guarantee their fundamental right are guaranteed to them. The Plea further states that of children who applied for admission in the month of April 2021 for the session 2021-22 approximately 50,000 are entitled to admission as per the actual enrolment in the school. The director of education delayed the process on their own and now refusing the admission on the ground of delay in admission which is the duty of appropriate government i.e., the respondent Delhi Government themselves, the petitioner alleged. (ANI)
Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday demanded an unconditional apology from Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on judiciary and Election Commission, and said that he doesn't take the Congress leader seriously, "but because he spoke in House, he should tender an apology." Speaking with ANI, the Union Law Minister said, "I personally don't take Rahul Gandhi seriously. But because he's a leader of his political party and has spoken these words on the Floor of the House, I've to take note of this. He has to come before House and he has to tender an unconditional apology to all courts and EC." Claiming that the remark will "go on as a black spot", Rijiju said, "I feel that whatever he said about the Indian judiciary will go on as a black spot because nobody has spoken such a thing about the Indian judiciary. People of India may have problems but everybody has faith in the judiciary." "To accuse and abuse the judiciary from the Floor of the Parliament House is beyond my words of condemnation. He should immediately tender an unconditional apology before the people of India, to the Indian judiciary and the EC," Rijiju reiterated. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday attacked the BJP-led government in Lok Sabha stating that "institutions of our country are being attacked and captured by one idea" and "the judiciary, the Election Commission, Pegasus, are all instruments of destroying the voice of the union of states". Participating in the debate on the motion of thanks on the President's Address, Gandhi accused the Centre of having a "flawed vision" and centralising power. He said, "the idea of king has come back". (ANI)
Vedanta Ltd is quoting at Rs 348.6, up 1.56% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The stock is up 97.62% in last one year as compared to a 18.64% gain in NIFTY and a 69.94% gain in the Nifty Metal index.

Vedanta Ltd rose for a third straight session today. The stock is quoting at Rs 348.6, up 1.56% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is down around 0.6% on the day, quoting at 17672.55. The Sensex is at 59169.4, down 0.65%. Vedanta Ltd has added around 3.98% in last one month.

Meanwhile, Nifty Metal index of which Vedanta Ltd is a constituent, has added around 3.34% in last one month and is currently quoting at 5779.7, up 0.25% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 97.55 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 120.32 lakh shares in last one month.

The benchmark February futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 351.15, up 1.83% on the day. Vedanta Ltd is up 97.62% in last one year as compared to a 18.64% gain in NIFTY and a 69.94% gain in the Nifty Metal index.

The PE of the stock is 8.68 based on TTM earnings ending December 21.

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MANILA, Philippines (AP)  Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is self-isolating after being exposed last weekend to a member of his household staff who had COVID-19, but Duterte has twice tested negative following the exposure, his spokesman said Thursday.

The 76-year-old leader continues to work while in quarantine and remains in communication with his Cabinet members to address urgent issues and pandemic-related concerns, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said.

Duterte has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and received his booster shot last month.

Nograles confirmed social media reports that Duterte went to the Cardinal Santos Medical Center in suburban San Juan district in the capital region but said the visit was for a routine medical check-up only. He did not say when Duterte went to the hospital or provide other details.

Duterte, whose stormy six-year term ends in June, has acknowledged in the past that he has various health ailments, including recurring migraines, as a result of a past motorcycle accident and drinking. But he said his most serious health concern is Barretts esophagus, a condition thought to be caused by stomach acid flowing up into the esophagus.

The Philippine constitution requires presidents to publicly disclose any serious illness and Duterte's aides have defended his refusal to release medical bulletins about his health in the past by saying he has not had any serious medical problems.
Stars and Stripes is making stories on the coronavirus pandemic available free of charge. See more stories here. Sign up for our daily coronavirus newsletter here. Please support our journalism with a subscription.

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan  A volunteer program that delivers food to people stuck in quarantine resurfaced recently at this base south of Tokyo, where hundreds of people contracted COVID-19 in the latest wave to wash over Japan.

The Samaritan Shopper Program was launched in summer 2020 and remained active until summer 2021, when vaccinations became widespread, and demand dropped off.

However, a new, record-breaking surge of infections led to the programs resurgence, coordinator Megan McMehan told Stars and Stripes last week.

So, in late spring, early summer, we really stopped the program because we were having maybe one request a month, she said by phone Jan. 27. Then, all of the sudden, omicron started.

The omicron variant of the coronavirus is more transmissible than its predecessor, the delta variant, but is less virulent and results in fewer hospitalizations and deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Of 678 active cases at the Yokosuka base on Jan. 28, none were hospitalized.

That meant hundreds were in restriction of movement, or ROM, a modified form of quarantine that keeps COVID-19 patients and close contacts isolated for up to 10 days.

Some signed up for food deliveries via Samaritan Shoppers Facebook page, where they were matched with a shopper.

With a detailed grocery list, the shopper picks up the items at the commissary and delivers them to the customers door. Customers pay directly to the commissary over the phone with a credit card.

Seaman Seth Buzzell, a culinary specialist aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, said hes taken advantage of the program several times. He first used it when he was placed in ROM after arriving at Yokosuka, and again when he tested positive for COVID-19.

I appreciated, extremely, the people that take time out of their day to go shopping for us. It was critically needed, it was a super morale booster, he said by phone Thursday.

Other U.S. military installations across Japan created their own version of the Samaritan Shopper program. At Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, south of Hiroshima, the all-volunteer ROM Runners sprang to life as the pandemic became a fixture of life on base.

It, too, went on hiatus as case numbers plummeted and vaccination rates climbed last year. But informal networks kept the occasional COVID-19 patient or close contact fed and cared for during their quarantines.

The Melendez-Medina family, which includes two children, relied only on their neighbors and friends for groceries and supplies while they were in quarantine last month at their home on base.

I didnt even know they had [ROM Runners] so we never looked into it, Nohely Melendez-Medina, a Navy spouse, told Stars and Stripes by Facebook Messenger on Monday.

At Yokosuka, the 1,431 cases of COVID-19 the base reported in January exceeded the total reported over the two previous years, but demand for Samaritan Shopper wasnt nearly what it once was, McMehan said.

The big difference right now is that all of the ships are here, and you have more command support here on base than you do when the ships are all deployed, she said.

At its busiest, the group delivered between 10 and 30 orders a day, McMehan said. Now the group handles about 10 orders a week.

Widespread vaccinations, loosening of the quarantine restrictions and other factors allow sailors more flexibility.

Still, theres demand for it, and its enough that its worthwhile for us, she said. Ten families without groceries, thats too many.
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI/BusinessWire India): Pizza Hut, India's most loved and trusted pizza brand, has opened its first all-women operated store in India, located at Gangtok, furthering its commitment to induct and empower more women in the workforce and ensure an Equal Slice for Everyone. Every store function, from food preparation and customer service to day-to-day management, will be carried out by women. The store will have a staff of over 10 women employees to start with, including store managers. A majority of these women employees are freshers, making this an excellent stepping-stone for them to start their professional career with a highly respected brand like Pizza Hut. Said Chitra D Ram, Director - Capability & Culture, Pizza Hut at Yum! Restaurants International, "2021 has been a marquee year with many firsts for Pizza Hut. Earlier this year we had unveiled our bold new brand platform called 'Dil Khol Ke Delivering' to let everyone know that Pizza Hut delivers the best taste and value, easiest access along with our signature warm service across every channel - Dine-in, Takeaway or Delivery. To bring our 'Dil Khol Ke Delivering' message alive in a unique way, we have also roped in popular actor and comedian Anuradha Menon as our magnetic ambassador, making Pizza Hut one of the first few QSR chains in India to use a female ambassador as the face of the brand. Today, we are proud to begin a new chapter by opening our first all-women store in India that puts women at the front and centre of action. My best wishes to the team and kudos for the example they are setting by breaking boundaries and inspiring other women." Congratulating Pizza Hut, Anuradha Menon said "It is an honour to be associated with a brand that not only advocates gender equality and inclusion but also demonstrates it in an equally strong manner. Dil Khol Ke salute to this all-women power team of the Gangtok store as they set foot on this bold and adventurous journey." Pizza Hut's parent company Yum! Brands has also been setting diversity and inclusion benchmarks consistently, such as being named to the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index (GEI) for several years in a row. This story is provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/BusinessWire India)
A Miami trucker looked out his passenger window for three seconds before slamming into a pickup truck carrying a La Vista father and son on their way to a Husker game.

Those three seconds of distracted driving ended two lives: Mark Kaipust, 41, and his son Taylor, 7. The Kaipusts were sitting in their Chevy Colorado pickup truck as traffic had slowed before the exit to Memorial Stadium.

But for those three seconds and his failure to yield, prosecutors say, Yorkwind Crawford, 50, had been observing the rules of the road as he drove his Freightliner semi-trailer truck that Saturday morning.

Without evidence of reckless or drunken driving, the Lancaster County Attorneys Office decided to reduce Crawfords charges from felony to misdemeanor motor vehicle homicide.

Wednesday, Crawford returned to Lincoln and, flanked by his attorney, Mark Foxall, entered no contest pleas to both charges. Lancaster County Judge Timothy Phillips found him guilty of both and set Crawfords sentencing for April 1. He faces up to a year in jail on each misdemeanor count  down from the three years in prison he faced on each of the original felony counts.

Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Erica Pruess said Crawfords driving amounted to carelessness, not recklessness.

He had been going 65 mph, the posted speed limit. Tests afterward revealed he was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A search of his cellphone revealed no texts or other online activity at the time.

Felony motor vehicle homicide requires evidence of impairment or reckless driving.

Pruess gave the following account:

The Kaipusts had been on their way to Nebraskas season-opening home game against Fordham Sept. 4. Kickoff was set for 11 a.m. At 9 a.m., they had joined a line of westbound cars that were backed up on I-80 for about a mile, waiting to exit to Interstate 180 to Memorial Stadium in downtown Lincoln.

The cars were traveling anywhere from 5 to 25 mph.

Crawford had been traveling west on Interstate 80. About 5 miles before, at mile marker 407, he passed a sign that cautioned motorists of heavy traffic ahead and urged them to keep a safe distance. However, Pruess said, traffic was light at that point of the Interstate.

Crawford was driving 65 mph in what he described as the slow lane, or the far right lane, of the three westbound lanes.

Around mile marker 402, he looked out his passenger window, to the north. Its not clear what he was looking at  the landscape at that point has only scattered houses, two cellphone towers, a billboard and an occasional plane either going to or coming from Lincolns airport.

Its possible Crawford was looking at his side-view mirror. A trooper wrote that Crawford told another driver, I looked in my mirror, and when he looked back through the windshield, he crashed with the rear of a pickup truck that had slowed because of traffic backing up.

When he turned back to look at the road, it was too late, Pruess said.

Pruess said investigators reviewed footage from two cameras on Crawfords semi: one looking out through the windshield and the other showing Crawford and the cab.

The interior-facing camera showed Crawford looking out the passenger-side window for three seconds.

The cause of the crash was determined to be solely the momentary distraction of looking out the window for three seconds prior to the crash, Pruess said.

Crawford had claimed brake failure, but an inspection of his brakes revealed no evidence of brake failure before the crash, Pruess said.

Crawford hit Kaipusts truck and several more vehicles, sending them into the right-hand ditch. He veered into the middle lane, hit several additional cars and came to a stop against the median barrier underneath the 14th Street bridge.

In all, Crawford hit seven vehicles, killing two and injuring five others.

The driver of the seventh vehicle stated, The semi showed no signs of slowing down. I saw a car flip, I saw one careen into the median and burst into flames. I sincerely believe all of this occurred because the semi driver was distracted, according to a troopers affidavit.

Foxall and Crawford declined to comment outside court Wednesday. Jim McGough, another of Crawfords attorneys, has said that Crawford has children and is completely torn up over the crash.

Mark Kaipusts loved ones include wife Jamie and surviving sons Kayden and Isaiah. Taylor, 7, was a sweet, fun-loving kid. Mark had coached his kids and others as a youth coach with Gross Junior Cougars program and was an assistant professor of occupational therapy at Creighton University.
The date of the visit will be known after the 2022 Winter Olympic Games in Beijing, the A Haber TV channel said, reported the news agency.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said last week that Putin's visit may take place after his trip to the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games on Friday.

Furthermore, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that he would travel to Turkey as soon as epidemiological conditions permit. (ANI)
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], February 3 (ANI/PRNewswire): EvoluteIQ, a leading platform provider for hyperautomation enablement today announced that the technology company has been recognized as a Representative Vendor in December 2021 Gartner Market Guide for Business Process Automation Tools report. "We are excited and happy to be a part of this Gartner Market Guide since we believe this comes at a time when automation is soon becoming the mainstay in today's digital-first world. We consider that this recognition is a testament to the e.IQ platform's ability to build automated business solutions in a simple, scalable, and cost-effective way," said Sameet Gupte, Chief Executive Officer at EvoluteIQ. The report states, "This market guide helps applications and understand this market's key features, functionality, use cases and trends." The report recognizes EvoluteIQ as a Representative Vendor. Further it states, "BPA tools support organizational transformation by orchestrating, automating and monitoring end-to-end business processes."[1] According to Gartner, "automation efforts within enterprises are increasingly becoming more business-led rather than IT-led. As a result, enterprises have become more interested in investing in technologies that enable business users to Intuitively map/model business processes, identify automation opportunities and rapidly deploy business-unit-specific automated workflows." The e.IQ platform offers an end-to-end capability for enabling the digital transformation for businesses. The unified platform eliminates the need for multiple bots and siloed technologies. Automated business solutions built using the e.IQ Platform have been successfully implemented across industries including banking, insurance and healthcare, with go-live in 4-6 weeks and upto 70% reduction in implementation costs. Gartner Disclaimer [1] Gartner, "Market Guide for Business Process Automation Tools", Tushar Srivastava, Akash Jain, Naved Rashid, 6 December 2021. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is 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. EvoluteIQ is a Nordea & Confidus Venture Capital backed technology company headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden with a global presence in the UK, US and India. The company's core solution is the e.IQ Hyperautomation enablement Platform. The integrated platform combines the capabilities of process orchestration, data and event processing, AI/ML, enterprise connectors and front-end application development to build seamless user journeys using a simple, low-code / no-code interface. For more information about EvoluteIQ and to learn how the e.IQ platform helps transform businesses through hyperautomation enablement, please visit www.evoluteiq.com. This story is provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PRNewswire)
VALPARAISO  The Valparaiso Plan Commission approved a primary plan for a 160-unit subdivision planned for the northwest edge of the city.

The Iron Gate subdivision would sit on 79 acres in the southeast corner of County Roads 500 North and 250 West. The development plan for the project underwent some changes after the city heard from nearby residents during an August Board of Zoning Appeals meeting and a January public hearing.

During the August 2021 BZA meeting, several residents from the Brigata Hills subdivision, located immediately to the east of Iron Gate, shared concerns about the proximity of the new development and traffic safety. The BZA negotiated with Lennar Homes of Indiana, the Iron Gate developer, to have larger, 90-foot-wide lots where the two subdivisions connect. The smaller lots will be 65 feet wide.

Lennar is also preserving a forested area on the land, which will serve as an additional buffer between Iron Gate and Brigata Hills. In an effort to maintain more open space, the project is utilizing the cluster development option, said Todd Leeth, the attorney representing Lennar.

Strict standards have deterred past developers from using the cluster development option in the past, Valparaiso Planning and Transit Director Beth Shrader said during the August BZA meeting. The cluster option requires that 35% of the project remain open space, and Leeth said 38% of Iron Gate will be open space.

Under the city's unified development ordinance, the developer is required to put in dead-end 'stub' roads that lead to bordering land parcels. The stub roads are intended to connect to other developments as they are built.

During the August BZA meeting, the Brigata Hills residents opposed plans to connect Iron Gate to Brigata's current stub street. Residents who spoke at the meeting said they feared traffic from Iron Gate would cut through their subdivision.

Instead, Iron Gate is putting in a stub road that will connect to a parcel of farmland located to the west. During the Tuesday meeting, newly appointed Plan Commission member Clay Patton said the city may run into the same issue again if the farmland bordering the stub road is developed and the future residents do not want to connect the road.

Whats the point of having this in the unified development ordinance if we are just going to have these stub roads to nowhere? Patton said.

Shrader said the issue Iron Gate ran into is part of an "ongoing battle" the city has had with subdivision residents wanting to stay "secluded." The commission discussed potentially adding language to housing covenants explaining that residents waive the right to remonstration if stub roads are connected.

During the January public hearing, John Gast, who owns farmland surrounding the development, said he has concerns about increased traffic because of all the new housing coming to the area. Shrader said that while Valparaiso is seeing a lot of growth in the northwest side of the city, the overall population is on track to increase by roughly the same amount each year for the next five years.

Mike Jabo, Valparaiso director of engineering, said that a traffic impact analysis found the development's impact would be "minimal" but that the city will be "keeping a pulse" on how traffic in the area changes. Shrader said a detailed design of all the traffic calming elements included in the development will be submitted before the project receives any site permits.
Ukraine does not expect provocations from Belarus and expects Russian troops to leave Belarusian territory after joint military drills, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov has said.

He said at a briefing on Thursday, February 3, that the relevant Ukrainian units were monitoring the situation with Belarusian-Russian military exercises, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"We definitely are not planning to carry out any provocations against Belarus and we do not expect any provocations from Belarus, because we believe that there are no grounds for enmity and unfriendly understanding between us. I want people in Minsk to hear us that we have hope, that the stay of Russian troops there will be temporary and they will leave Belarus after the exercises," Reznikov said.

He recalled that the active phase of the Belarusian-Russian exercises should begin on February 3.

According to him, several thousand people are to take part in these exercises, mostly from the military units of the eastern and central military districts of the Russian Federation.

"Our Armed Forces, border guards, the National Guard, the police, the Security Service are ready. We are monitoring [the situation] in all five regions bordering the friendly Republic of Belarus. We are adapted to any change in the situation," Reznikov said.

op
The Kelso City Council appointed LaDonna Page, an ambitious political novice, to a vacant council seat Tuesday night.

The council voted 4-2 to select Page to fill the vacant seat once held by Mayor Nancy Malone during the regular council meeting. Keenan Harvey and Lisa Alexander were the two council members who voted against Pages appointment.

Page, 35, is a mortgage loan officer for Sierra Pacific Mortgage and serves as the lead for the Kelso Sister City Exchange Program. Page grew up in Kelso and told the council she was ready to work on housing challenges and improving the city.

What gets chosen up here impacts my day-to-day life far more than what gets chosen in Washington, D.C., and I would like to be part of that and help make those decisions, Page said during her interview Tuesday.

The council held interviews with all four applicants for the open seat during a special meeting before the regular council meeting. The candidates seeking the seat were former council members Jeffrey McAllister and Richard Von Rock and last years write-in City Council candidate Kirsten Markstrom.

Pages age and enthusiasm was cited as a point in her favor by the Kelso council members who voted for her appointment and a concern of the ones who voted against her.

As I grow more and more gray hair, there is value in recognizing youthful people who can come to an organization like this and provide a variety and diversity of thought, councilman Brian Wood said.

Alexander said her vote was not about Pages opinions or goals for the council and more about her relative lack of experience.

I felt that we needed someone who was already used to the council. Were still having Wood get used to how we work and now we add somebody else new, Alexander said.

Harvey hopes Page would do well as a council member but remains convinced it was unjust for the seat to have been open in the first place. Malone forfeited the seat at the last meeting in December for missing too many council meetings.

Biographic details about Page

Page first moved to Kelso when she was 9 years old. She went to college at the University of Arizona and lived in Arizona for several years, until her husband retired from the U.S. Army and their family returned to Kelso. The have two children enrolled in the Kelso School District.

Last winter, Page applied for the council seat vacated when David Futcher stepped down. Page said a busy schedule kept her from running for office during the 2021 elections but she now has the time to commit to serving on the council.

Given her job as a mortgage officer, Page is versed in the housing challenges facing the city. She said she isnt sure how much the City Council can do to change the kinds of housing that gets proposed. Whatever path the council takes, she feels it is important to create more homes affordable to middle- and low-income families.

The biggest challenge that a lot of our local citizens face is that the housing market is outpacing our incomes, Page said.

Another major priority for her is the city water system. Page said she worked with clients who moved from Longview to Kelso because of the quality difference in the water supply.

Protecting that water is important to me. I drink it every day, I let my kids drink it, Page said.

Other city council business

Outside of Pages appointment, the biggest drama for the Kelso City Council on Tuesday came from what wasnt on the agenda.

Harvey interrupted the discussion about approving the previous meetings minutes to ask about two items not listed on the agenda, the next step in the citys moratorium on sex offender housing and a zoning change along a section of the realigned West Main Street.

This is a new administration and this is the third time an agenda item has been left off, Harvey said in an interview Wednesday. Why is it that my items have been continuously left off?

City attorney Janean Parker said the public hearing on the moratorium was pushed back because Kelso couldnt meet the required 14 days notice before Tuesdays meeting. No clear answer was provided about the proposed zoning item, which would create a retail-only zone along West Main.

Harvey later attempted to force a council member to forfeit their seat for abstaining from a vote during the Jan. 18 meeting. Harvey argued the wording of the forfeiture section of the Kelso city charter meant any action not allowed by the city charter, such as abstaining from a vote, was grounds for removal.

City officials disagreed with that interpretation. In an email interview with The Daily News on Jan. 12, Parker specifically used abstentions as an example of a city charter violation that would not force a seat to be vacated.

Section 2.09 states that every member shall vote and abstentions are not allowed except for conflicts. If a council member abstains, I do not think that they have forfeited their office, Parker wrote.

In other business, the Kelso City Council acted during Tuesdays meeting to:

authorize the city to list the land at 314 Oak Street, a former parking lot for Kelso City Hall, as surplus property and begin the process of selling it.

sign onto the Spirit Lake-Toutle/Cowlitz River System Collaborative agreement.

table a discussion about approving new council rules of conduct and procedure until the Feb. 15 meeting.
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Major airlines, business and travel groups urged the White House on Wednesday to end COVID-19 pre-departure testing requirements for vaccinated international passengers traveling to the United States.

Airlines for America, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, International Air Transport Association, Aerospace Industries Association, the U.S. Travel Association and other groups called for change in a letter to White House coronavirus response coordinator Jeff Zients.

"Surveys of air passengers indicate that pre-departure testing is a leading factor in the decision not to travel internationally. People simply are unwilling to take the chance that they will be unable to return to the U.S.," they wrote.

The White House declined to comment. Airlines for America, which represents American Airlines, Delta Air Lines Inc, United Airlines Holdings and others said as of last week international air travel was down 38% over 2019 levels.

In December, the Biden administration imposed tougher new rules requiring international air travelers arriving in the United States to obtain a negative COVID-19 test within one day of travel.

Under prior rules, vaccinated international air travelers could present a negative test result obtained within three days of their day of departure.

The White House and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) previously considered but have never imposed testing requirements for Americans to board domestic flights.

The letter noted that more than 74.3 million people have had COVID-19 in the United States, meaning that at least 22% of the population has had the virus.

"Clearly COVID is widespread throughout the U.S. and attempts to control its importation via air travel under todays circumstances are unlikely to change that fact," it said.

If any new threatening variants appeared "pre-departure testing could be easily reinstituted," it added.

The European Union recommended countries remove intra-Europe COVID travel restrictions, the letter noted. Britain will end COVID predeparture testing for vaccinated air travelers to enter the country starting Feb. 11.

The groups said "travel and aviations recovery is dependent on the government taking steps to remove travel restrictions that are no longer justified by current circumstances."

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Leslie Adler and Stephen Coates)
Cruel internet trolls have added insult to injury after sexual assault survivor Grace Tame was rushed to hospital following a nasty bicycle crash.

The 2021 Australian of the Year was treated for a broken collarbone and a grazed shoulder, but is now 'on the mend' and recovering at home.

But not everybody wished the courageous sexual violence campaigner well ahead of her National Press Club address next week, as a barrage personal attacks were directed her way.

Online haters suggested she 'fell off her high horse' and asked her if she 'smiled for the doctor' - in reference to her awkward, stony-faced encounter with Scott Morrison last week.

In an Instagram post describing the accident, the 27-year-old said: 'Bike stack, broken collarbone. Thank you for understanding, we may take a while to respond.

'Out of hospital now and on the mend.'

Grace Tame's injuries include a broken collarbone and nasty graze. She has also been forced to wear a cast as she recovers

Cruel internet trolls added insult to injury after the sexual assault survivor was rushed to hospital after a nasty bicycle crash

Ms Tame recently made headlines last month after an awkward encounter with the Prime Minister.

She stood un-smiling during a photograph with Mr Morrison and his wife Jenny and appeared reluctant to shake his hand at a morning tea for Australian of the Year finalists, sparking days of controversy and debate.

'Well that'll give her something real to scowl about! #diddums' one person wrote.

Others said: 'Did she give the doctor the same look as Scomo' and 'Ouch!!! It looks like she fell off her high horse'.

'Awww poor thing. Press Club next week? That cast is just the ticket to get some love back. (laughing emoji) And for pity's sake don't turn up with that sour, sour face,' a third wrote.

Grace Tame finally refused to smile when meeting the Prime Minister at a function (pictured together)

'Hopefully she was courteous and respectful towards the medical staff and not the way she behaved towards the PM. Hopefully she left her sense of entitlement at the door,' another commented.

Many more social media users were horrified by the attacks on Ms Tame and offered messages of support.

'I hope she is okay. Sending loads of love and care to an amazing young woman,' one person wrote.

Another said: 'For those who think this is funny, you're all terrible people... with nothing to offer but nasty comments, hatred and division.'

'People are disgusting!' Another wrote. 'Hope you recover quickly Grace and thanks for being such an amazing advocate for women.'

Outgoing Australian of the Year Grace Tame made headlines last month after her stony-faced encounter with Prime Minister Scott Morrison

Many social media users were horrified by the attacks on Ms Tame and offered messages of support

The accident comes just days before Ms Tame is due to address the National Press Club, where she will speak alongside Brittany Higgins.

Addressing their strange meeting for the first time, Mr Morrison said he supported Ms Tame's advocacy and work during her tenure as Australian of the Year.

'When Jenny and I invite someone to our home, we greet them with a smile and they're always welcome, and that day was actually about all the finalists we came to celebrate,' Mr Morrison told radio station 4BC.

'I haven't raised any issues about (the incident) - all I'm saying is we were there that day to celebrate those who had done an incredible job for our country.'

Ms Tame attracted criticism from some in the government, with one LNP senator calling her 'childish', but also received widespread support.

On Wednesday Ms Tame addressed the controversy herself, saying it would have be 'hypocritical' of her to be friendly after repeatedly criticising the Prime Minister over his response to women's safety issues.

Grace Tame (pictured cheering at the Australian Open) is set to give an address at the National Press Club next week

The 27-year-old suggested it would be 'hypocritical' of her to be friendly to the PM

'The survival of abuse culture is dependent on submissive smiles and self-defeating surrenders. It is dependent on hypocrisy,' she wrote on Twitter.

'My past is only relevant to the extent that I have seen - in fact I have worn - the consequences of civility for the sake of civility.

'What I did wasn't an act of martyrdom in the gender culture war. It's true that many women are sick of being told to smile, often by men, for the benefit of men.

'But it's not just women who are conditioned to smile and conform to the visibly rotting status-quo. It's all of us.'

The then-Australian of the Year was among the government's harshest critics for its handling of the alleged 2019 rape of former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins in a federal minister's office, which became public last year.

Ms Tame said the government 'doesn't get it', following its subsequent failure to pass all legislative reforms recommended by Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins.
By Joyce Lee

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's telecommunications regulator wants better compliance plans from Apple Inc and Alphabet's Google before finalising rules for a law banning app store operators from forcing software developers to use their payments systems, officials said on Thursday.

South Korea passed the law, an amendment to the Telecommunication Business Act, last year. The rules, due to be drawn up by March 15 and called the enforcement ordinance, will lay out what constitutes compliance with the law.

Although the ordinance has not been finalised, the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) believes that a compliance plan Apple submitted "still lacks concrete detail", a KCC official told Reuters.

The KCC was in contact with Apple representatives for a more detailed compliance plan that goes beyond the general intention of allowing alternative payment systems, the official said.

As for Google's plan, the official said the KCC was aware of concern over Google's planned policy of only reducing its service charge to developers by 4 percentage points when users choose an alternative billing system, and the regulator is waiting for additional information from Google.

"As a result of any policy, if app developers find it realistically difficult to use an alternative payment system and resort to using the dominant app store operator's payment system, it would not fit the law's purpose," the official said, adding that this stance would likely be reflected in the final ordinance.

The official, who is not authorised to speak to media, declined to be identified. Apple and Google did not have an immediate response.

(Reporting by Joyce Lee; Editing by Robert Birsel)
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A former Met chief superintendent today said the force was in the midst of 'another Macpherson moment' as he backed Sadiq Khan's decision to give Cressida Dick a public dressing down over the rotten culture that has taken hold under her watch.

Dal Babu OBE, who served with the force for 30 years, said confidence in the police was at an 'all-time low' and suggested it was time for another inquiry similar to the one following the death of black teenager Stephen Lawrence.

The Macpherson report labelled the response to the 18-year-old's murder 'institutionally racist' and identified major failings in the police investigation and how the victim's family were treated. Mr Babu, who retired in 2013, said he supported Mr Khan's decision to publicly rebuke the Met commissioner yesterday.

'The Mayor is right - confidence in the police is at an all-time low,' he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme. 'I think we have another Macpherson moment, this is a challenging time for the Met.

'If you look at the plethora of incidents that have happened, from the appalling situation with Nicole Smallman and Bibaa Henry and the ghoulish photographs that were taken by officers, plus the failings around Stephen Port, and then Daniel Morgan, and now Charing Cross... I think the facts speak for themselves.'

Cressida Dick was summoned yesterday for a public dressing down by London Mayor Sadiq Khan. Dal Babu OBE, who served with the force for 30 years, backed Mr Khan's move

String of disasters at the Met under Dame Cressida's watch April 2017: Appointed as first female Metropolitan Police commissioner with a brief to modernise the force and keep it out of the headlines. April 2019: Extinction Rebellion protesters bring London to a standstill over several days with the Met powerless to prevent the chaos. Dame Cressida says the numbers involved were far greater than expected and used new tactics but she admits police should have responded quicker. September 2019: Her role in setting up of shambolic probe into alleged VIP child sex abuse and murder based on testimony from the fantasist Carl Beech (right) is revealed but she declines to answer questions. 2020: Official report into Operation Midland said Met was more interested in covering up mistakes than learning from them. February 2021: Lady Brittan condemns the culture of 'cover up and flick away' in the Met and the lack of a moral compass among senior officers. The same month a freedom of information request reveals an extraordinary spin campaign to ensure Dame Cressida was not 'pulled into' the scandal over the Carl Beech debacle. March: Criticised for Met handling of a vigil for Sarah Everard, where officers arrested four attendees. Details would later emerge about how her killer, Wayne Couzens (right), used his warrant card to trick her into getting into his car. In the first six months of the year, London was on course for its worst year for teenage deaths  30  with knives being responsible for 19 out of the 22 killed so far. The youngest was 14-year-old Fares Matou, cut down with a Samurai sword. Dame Cressida had told LBC radio in May her top priority was tackling violent crime. June: A 20million report into the Daniel Morgan murder brands the Met 'institutionally corrupt' and accuses her of trying to block the inquiry. Dame Cressida rejects its findings. Mr Morgan is pictured below. July: Police watchdog reveals three Met officers being probed over alleged racism and dishonesty. The same month the Yard boss is at the centre of another storm after it emerged she was secretly referred to the police watchdog over comments she made about the stop and search of Team GB sprinter Bianca Williams. Dame Cressida is accused of pre-empting the outcome of an independent investigation. Also in July she finds herself under fire over her woeful security operation at the Euro 2020 final at Wembley where fans without tickets stormed the stadium and others used stolen steward vests and ID lanyards to gain access. August Dame Cressida facing a potential misconduct probe over her open support for Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Horne who could stand trial over alleged data breaches. December: Two police officers who took pictures of the bodies of murdered sisters Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman (right) were jailed for two years and nine months each. Pc Deniz Jaffer and Pc Jamie Lewis were assigned to guard the scene overnight after Ms Henry, 46, and Ms Smallman, 27, were found dead in bushes in Fryent Country Park, Wembley, north-west London. Instead, they breached the cordon to take photographs of the bodies, which were then shared with colleagues and members of the public on WhatsApp. December: Dame Cressida apologises to the family of a victim of serial killer Stephen Port (right). Officers missed several chances to catch him after he murdered Anthony Walgate in 2014. Dame Cressida - who was not commissioner at the time of the murder - told Mr Walgate's mother: I am sorry, both personally and on behalf of The Met  had police listened to what you said, things would have turned out a lot differently. January 2022: She faces a barrage of fresh criticism for seeking to 'muzzle' Sue Gray's Partygate report by asking her to make only 'minimal' references to parties the Met were investigating. February 2022: Details of messages exchanged by officers at Charing Cross Police Station, which included multiple references to rape, violence against women, racist and homophobic abuse, are unveiled in a watchdog report. Advertisement

Asked whether Dame Cressida or any one person was capable of reforming the Met, he said: 'I think the person at the top has a very important role, but the whole organisation has to change and acknowledge it needs to change.

'What we need are people who are prepared to talk about the organisation who know the organisation. We need people to be honest, some tough love and strong leadership. These are not isolated problems.'

A spokesman for Mr Khan confirmed he had had a 'very frank discussion' with Dame Cressida yesterday, which 'lasted for well over 90 minutes'. Significantly, for the first time sources made clear he would be prepared to oust her without major changes.

'The mayor made clear to the commissioner how angry he is with a return to the bad days of the Met of his childhood in the 1970s and 80s, and that neither he nor Londoners will put up with this,' they added.

'He has put the commissioner on notice. He said the Met needs to urgently show it has an effective plan for restoring the trust and confidence of Londoners in the police and to drive out the culture of racism, homophobia, bullying and misogyny which clearly still exists within its ranks.'

A source close to Mr Khan also said: 'If the commissioner is not able to do so, then the mayor will have to consider whether she is the right person to lead the change needed at the Met.'

There has been a widespread outcry about the Met's decision to sack just two of the 14 officers investigated by the Independent Office of Police Conduct.

Misconduct was proven against another three, while another resigned before the disciplinary process was complete.

Today it emerged one of the officers who had been disciplined in the Charing Cross probe has since been promoted from the rank of constable to sergeant.

She was found to have committed misconduct for failing to report wrongdoing, yet the Met told the Guardian the promotion went ahead anyway, telling the Guardian that the officer 'attended a misconduct meeting and was given management action/advice about reporting wrongdoing'.

A spokesman said: 'Because the police sergeant demonstrated that she had personally developed and learned since the incident, it was agreed by the IOPC that she should be subject to management action only, and that she should complete an attachment with a professional standards unit to develop her knowledge further.'

Another one of the police officers whose disturbing messages formed part of the inquiry threatened to murder a female colleague while under investigation for sexually harassing her.

James McLoughlin-Goodchild, a PC at Charing Cross police station, threatened to stab the woman and two other officers if they came to arrest him during a phone call with a sergeant to discuss an upcoming gross misconduct hearing.

A trial heard he said: 'I will kill them, I will murder them if I see them, I know where they live and what cars they drive.

'If they come to my home and arrest me they are going to get stabbed. I will not go to prison alive.'

The officer was found guilty of sending an offensive, indecent, obscene or menacing communication after a trial at Hendon Magistrates Court in January 2019. He was handed a 12-month conditional discharge and an indefinite restraining order.

The grim revelations are just the latest in a series of scandals for beleaguered Met Police chief Dame Cressida Dick - who is already under pressure over her late decision to investigate the Downing St Partygate scandal.

Speaking to MPs yesterday, Home Secretary Priti Patel said she was 'appalled and sickened' by the findings of yesterday's report into the disgraceful behaviour of more than a dozen officers - including McLoughlin-Goodchild - at Charing Cross police station, including sick jokes about rape, 'killing black children', and 'f****** gays'.

McLoughlin-Goodchild was later sacked by the Met, but remained under investigation for a series of offensive messages that were the subject of an inquiry by the Independent Office of Police Conduct, The Times reported.

The watchdog found officers at Charing Cross had exchanged sickening messages about rape, 'killing black children', and 'f****** gays'.

A male officer told a female colleague 'I would happily rape you' and 'if I was single I would happily chloroform you'.

Another officer was known as 'mcrapey raperson' because of his reputation for ''harassing [women], getting on them, do you know what I mean being like, just a d***''.'

Ms Patel told the Commons Home Affairs Committee that the problem was not isolated and there had been 'too many instances where, in policing, we just see the most appalling behaviours'.

Asked by committee chairwoman Diana Johnson if she thinks police forces are 'institutionally misogynistic', Ms Patel said: 'There are problems with the culture, and some aspects of the culture, within the Metropolitan Police.

'I do think there are some very, very serious and significant matters that need, not just following up, but further investigation.

McLoughlin-Goodchild - who served at Charing Cross police station - was later sacked by the Met

James McLoughlin-Goodchild, a PC at Charing Cross police station, threatened to stab the woman and two other officers if they came to arrest him

'We're not seeing one-off incidences. I think we should just be quite clear about that. We are not seeing one-off incidences, this is not isolated. We have seen now too, too many times, too many instances where, in policing, we just see the most appalling behaviours, the most appalling conduct.

'I also think it shows a failure of leadership in some quarters.

'So you've asked me the question about institutional misogyny within policing. There are cultural issues there. What we saw in the IOPC report absolutely points to, I'm not even going to say just misogynistic behaviours, I think it's cultural and attitudinal.'

The Home Secretary said she has confidence in Metropolitan Police boss Dame Cressida Dick but 'change is required'.

Ms Patel said: 'I've always said that I'm confident in her and her work, but that also means that change is required.

What was the Macpherson report? Bombshell inquiry that paved the way for sweeping reforms Stephen Lawrence Stephen Lawrence was murdered by a gang of racists while waiting for a bus in Eltham, south-east London, in 1993. The bungled initial investigation into his death was beset by claims of racism, corruption and incompetence. It took nearly 20 years for two of his five or six killers finally to be brought to justice, after double-jeopardy rules were amended to allow new evidence to be presented at a later trail. In 1997 after his inquest, the Daily Mail ran a dramatic front-page publicly accusing five men of his murder, which was praised by Stephen's mother Doreen. The inquiry into the Met's handling of the case, led by high court judge William Macpherson, accused the force of 'institutional racism'. It made 70 recommendations including greater oversight of the police, greater powers to discipline officers, and the definition of a racist incident to be extended to 'any incident which is perceived to be racist by the victim or any other person'. The bombshell inquiry in 1999 paved the way for sweeping reform at Scotland Yard and led to the abolition of the double jeopardy law. Advertisement

'There are lots of issues, it's not straightforward with the Met, and there are lots of issues there where we need to see major, major significant improvements: culture, delivery, accountability and protecting the streets.'

Two inquiries are under way looking at the culture within the Met - one by Baroness Casey that was organised by the force itself, and a Home Office probe headed by Dame Elish Angiolini that is looking at the failures behind the rape and murder of Sarah Everard by a serving officer.

Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper said the IOPC's report had uncovered 'truly appalling behaviour' and urged the Home Office to address issues in policing.

She told the BBC's Today programme: 'Officers talking and joking about raping or beating their wives, and using homophobic insults and awful racism - you cannot ever tolerate this kind of abuse, racism or misogyny, it must have no place in policing and be rooted out.'

She called for action not just from the police, but also from the Home Office, saying there must be an overhaul of training and faster vetting of officers.

The IOPC published the messages after a series of nine investigations into the behaviour of Metropolitan Police officers based in a now disbanded Westminster team between 2016 and 2018, sparked by a later disproven claim that an officer had sex with a drunk person at a police station.

Fourteen officers were investigated by the watchdog, of whom two were found to have a case to answer for gross misconduct. One was sacked and another resigned before he would have been dismissed.

Nine remain serving officers, while another is working as a contractor in a staff role.

IOPC regional director for London Sal Naseem said that the two accused of gross misconduct were the worst perpetrators, but could not confirm whether those still serving were responsible for any of the offensive comments published.

He told Good Morning Britain: 'What I do know is that there were nine investigations here. The two officers who were sacked for gross misconduct were the worst perpetrators of some of these exchanges.'

In response to an urgent question about the report in the Commons, policing minister Kit Malthouse said the document 'makes for extremely disturbing reading' and that he 'cannot begin to describe my horror' at the revelations it contains.

He said he will look at a request by MP Dr Matthew Offord for a new offence to be created to make it illegal for anyone in a position of trust to try to have sexual contact with someone they have met through work.

These are MailOnline mock-ups of WhatsApp conversations that were published in the IOPC report. Warning: Graphic language

A mock-up of messages sent by a male officer to a female colleague, as revealed in the IOPC investigation

Further mock-ups of messages sent by a male officer during another shocking conversation on WhatsApp

'I'd happily rape you': Vile WhatsApp exchanges between Charing Cross officers WhatsApp conversation between two police officers: Officer 1: 'And my bird won't stop taking the p***. Swear to got [sic] I'm going to smack her' Officer 2: 'Slap her one say you didn't' Officer 1: 'I`ll f****** do it. She`s f***** off home.' A separate WhatsApp conversation between two police officers: Officer 1: 'I f****** need to take my bird out, won't see her until next Saturday. Then I have to work. Promised to take her out the Friday after. Making it up to her from when I backhanded her' Officer 2: 'Grab her by the p****' Officer 1: 'You ever slapped your missus?' Officer 1: 'It makes them love you more. Seriously since I did that she won't leave me alone. Now I know why these daft c**** are getting murdered by their s****** boyfriends. Knock a bird about and she will love you. Human nature. They are biologically programmed to like that s***.' Officer 2: 'Lmao' Officer 1: 'I'm right though' A further WhatsApp conversation between two police officers: Officer 1: 'I had that massive fight with my bird because she found out I'd been out on the piss with this girl who's a high class hooker a couple of weeks ago Hahahah' Officer 1: 'Make friends with high class hookers' Officer 2: 'I had one in Watford from adult work. Used to f*** her all the time' Officer 1: 'Yes! Hahaha' Officer 2: 'used just hang out and blast her on the sly' Officer 2: 'when I was on roids and needed it every hour' Messages sent by a male officer to a female officer: 'I would happily rape you' 'If I was single I would actually hate f*** you' 'If I was single I would happily chloroform you' Further messages sent about women, include: 'Getting a woman in to bed is like spreading butter. It can be done with a bit of effort using a credit card, but it's quicker and easier just to use a knife.' 'F*** knows what she's on about I just wanna sp*** on her' (sent by an officer in reference to another police officer's girlfriend). 'Mate my Mrs is driving me mad - come and shag a baby into her it might shut her up bro.' Advertisement

The IOPC report included messages by an officer bragging about sleeping with a sex worker he had met while on duty.

The latest developments in the Met Police provoked a swift rebuke from Home Secretary Priti Patel.

Ms Patel said she was 'appalled and sickened' by the findings of yesterday's report, blaming a 'failure of leadership' for the rotten culture of racism, misogyny and homophobia at Scotland Yard.

In her comments, Ms Patel also suggested a Royal Commission could eventually be set up to explore failings across the police and wider criminal justice system.

She also said spiking could be made a specific criminal offence following a series of reported incidents in nightclubs, although she warned the public 'not to expect an announcement tomorrow'.

Asked specifically about the report on the behaviour of officers at Charing Cross police station, she said: 'There are problems with the culture within the Metropolitan Police. I touched on this last year after the murder of Sarah Everard, which also exposed a range of issues

'There are some very serious and significant matters that need further investigation, primarily because we're not seeing one-off instances.

'We've seen now too many instances of the most appalling behaviours.

'I also think is shows a failure of leadership in some quarters.'

Asked to clarify what she meant by this, Ms Patel said: 'In terms of failure of leadership, the fact that those behaviours were allowed to take place, there were no disciplinary actions, no-one saying that's wrong, that is actually about leadership in policing. So that's superiors, that's seniors, line managers calling that behaviour out and actually stopping it in the first place.'

When chairwoman Diana Johnson asked whether that included the commissioner, Ms Patel replied: 'It is across the board.'

The Home Secretary said she would continue to be 'very challenging' with Dame Cressida but still had confidence in her.

Meanwhile, Leroy Logan, founder of the Black Police Association and a former superintendent, said 'the rot had set in' at the Met, which had created 'safe havens for predators'.

Calling for 'ethical leadership and systemic changes', he told the BBC's Newsnight programme: 'Over the last few years you've had Met officers doing amazingly bad things like photographing dead bodies, and then the Sarah Everard case.

'I was at Charing Cross from 2000 and 2004 and we never had a hint of that. Then again, we were supervisors on top of our game who had to know what was happening with our teams so we could spot these things early.

'I think the culture has become more immoral.

'There seems to be safe havens for predator types  sexists, misogynists and racists that aren't being challenged  so I'm wondering what's happened to the inspectors and supervisors.'
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain and the UAE are one country, with a common destiny and solid fraternal relations, reflected in their unity and solidarity, under all circumstances and in the face of all challenges. They have become a role model for relations between countries.

This was emphasised by Council of Representatives Speaker Fawzia bint Abdulla Zainal who added that the long-standing relations have been based on solid foundations of mutual love and cooperation in the political, economic, security, social, cultural and development fields.

Speaker Zainal made the statements while participating in the Bahraini-UAE parliamentary talks held yesterday at the premises of the UAE Federal National Council (FNC), on the sideline of her official visit to Abu Dhabi. She said that the intensive meetings and visits of their leaders and officials reflect their keenness to bolster their cooperation and coordination to better serve their peoples.

The talks session included Speaker Zainal and the Speaker of the UAEs FNC, Saqr Ghobash. Bahrains top lawmaker affirmed the unique nature of the deep-rooted Bahraini-UAE ties, established by the founding fathers, among the rulers of Bahrain and the UAE, reaching their peak during the eras of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and UAE President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

She pointed out that the bilateral ties have been solidified in joint development projects and joint action, thanks to the unwavering keenness of the senior officials and governments, led by HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and the UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler, HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) and American University of Bahrain (AUBH) signed yesterday a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate a number of mutually beneficial initiatives, including supporting the development of students at AUBH, as well as staff at BIC.

The agreement was signed in a ceremony attended by BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa and AUBH Founding President Dr Susan E. Saxton, held at the BIC premises in Sakhir. Under the deal, BIC and AUBH will establish a series of working arrangements that would assist in the educational process at the university and also help in the further career development of BIC staff.

These initiatives include creating internship opportunities for AUBH students at BIC; presenting opportunities for BIC staff and their dependants to benefit from the various professional certifications, degree programmes at AUBH; creating extracurricular activities that would be beneficial to the community; facilitating joint marketing activities as well as speaking opportunities for BIC guests at AUBH.

BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa commented: We are delighted to be partnering with the American University of Bahrain for what we are certain is the beginning of a very fruitful and long-term relationship.

AUBH is one of the leading tertiary education institutions in Bahrain and they operate with the highest international standards. BIC remains committed to helping in the holistic development of young people in Bahrain, and our agreement with AUBH is one way to achieving this.

We are immensely proud to be associated with such a reputable university and we look forward to the mutual benefits we can enjoy from the various initiatives we will arrange. Dr Saxton commented, We are honoured to enter into an MOU with BIC, and jointly collaborate to enhance educational and professional opportunities for AUBH Students, in line with our mission to graduate employment-ready students in Bahrain and worldwide.
New climate change legislation could be a 'severe setback' for Northern Irish farmers, industry groups have warned after MLAs voted to adopt a target of net zero by 2050.

The majority of MLAs voted for the new target to be set within the Executives Climate Change Bill during the NI Assembly at Stormont on Tuesday.

Greens, Sinn Fein, the Alliance Party, SDLP and a number of independents voted in favour.

Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK without its own climate change laws, but the agri-food sector is concerned about its potential impact.

The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) said it was 'deeply disappointed' by the outcome of the vote.

It added that the 2050 target "goes against the advice of the experts on the Climate Change Committee (CCC)".

The CCC originally highlighted that this target would not be achievable for NI, and would result in at least a 50 percent reduction in livestock numbers.

Commenting on the vote's result, UFU president Victor Chestnutt said: We need to stop global warming, but a net zero target will not do this.

"It is unrealistic and can only be met by cutting livestock numbers on local farms, and even by doing that, it would still not solve climate change.

"Instead, it will export our food production overseas to meet consumer demand for meat and dairy products, where emissions are higher and standards are lower."

Mr Chestnutt said that while there was still a long way to go to get 'appropriate' climate change legislation in place, the vote was a 'severe setback' for the sector.

"We will continue to work effortlessly, engaging with all MLAs to find a solution that works for farming, securing a bright future."

Northern Ireland's agriculture minister Edwin Poots has also expressed concern following the vote at Stormont.

He said the push to net zero within the 2050 timeframe would have "profound and irreversible consequences" for the agri-food sector.

The sector, one of the biggest in Northern Ireland, employs almost 100,000 people and generates 5 billion for the local economy.

I know the sector fully recognises the climate challenges we face and they have already put a range of steps in place to helps us tackle the issue together," Mr Poots said.

"There is widespread acceptance of the need to minimise the impacts of climate change in both the agriculture and environment sectors  but this must not be to the detriment of one particular sector."

He added: "In the meantime, I will not sit back and wait. Ive already introduced significant policies and announced consultations that help in our fight against climate change.

"Since I launched the Forest for Our Future programme, over 1.75 million trees have been planted and we will shortly be launching a Peatlands Strategy.

"All of which will help to sequester carbon, reduce emissions and ensure that we have a more resilient environment."
A couple fed-up with their parcels not being delivered properly has successfully sued Australia Post - with the service ordered to pay them thousands in compensation.

Wade Short and Veronica Lisbon's stoush with their local postie began in early 2020 when Mr Short would notice their parcels would either be left near the door or a collection slip left in mailbox without knocking to see if anybody was home.

On one occasion the delivery driver threw one of the parcels up the front steps of his Melbourne house and left - later saying the stairs were not up to safety standards.

In June that year, Mr Short waited outside one afternoon for the postie to arrive and after handing him a parcel, he told the worker he had made complaints to Australia Post about his poor service.

Australia Post was ordered to pay Mr Short and Ms Lisbon more than $3,000 because they stopped parcel delivery to his house when he complained of poor service (file image)

The postie argued that his stairs were a hazard which is why he had not been delivering the packages to the door.

'He then snatched the parcel back from me and said, 'fine, from now on you can go to the post office to pick up your parcels',' Mr Short told the Herald Sun.

Days later the couple received a letter saying parcels would not be delivered to their address anymore because of health and safety concerns.

Over the following months Mr Short had to make regular trips to the post office to collect his parcels and despite making multiple complaints to Australia Post, received no response.

Some parcels contained medication for his daughter or supplies for his party hire business.

He then lodged a complaint with the Ombudsman before going to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal claiming Australia Post was breaching their responsibilities under Australian Consumer Law.

The postal workers union said 'carding' where a collection slip is left without trying to properly deliver a parcel is growing increasingly common (file image)

VCAT found in favour of Mr Short and ordered the company to pay $3,100.53 to cover the multiple trips he made to collect parcels and his legal fees.

Tribunal member Neill Campbell found that Australia Post had not shown 'due care and skill' when delivering the parcels and that the driver had stopped deliveries because of the complaints rather than a hazard.

Australia Post said they respect VCAT's ruling and would recommence deliveries to Mr Short's address.

In 2021, the postal worker's union said the practice of 'carding' where a collection slip is left without checking if anyone is home is growing increasingly common.

The union claimed the use of subcontracters who are paid per delivery encouraged the cutting of corners so more parcels can be delivered in a shift.
Australia's most decorated living soldier allegedly shot a prisoner dead during a raid on a Taliban compound and ordered another unarmed Afghan soldier to be executed, a defamation trial heard yesterday.

The Sydney court was told on Wednesday by a serving SAS soldier, referred to only as Person 41, that Ben Roberts-Smith ordered a subordinate to kill an Afghan prisoner during the raid in Kakarak, southern Afghanistan, on Easter Day in 2009.

The unnamed soldier said Roberts-Smith grabbed an unarmed, older Afghan male by the scruff of his shirt, forced him to kneel and told his colleague to 'shoot him'.

After his subordinate complied with the order, Roberts-Smith then 'frog-marched' another prisoner into the courtyard, forced him to his knees and shot him with a machine gun in the back, Person 41 said.

Former SAS corporal Ben Roberts-Smith, 43, is suing Melbourne-based The Age, the Sydney Morning Herald and the Canberra Times for defamation over reports in 2018.

Roberts-Smith and his legal team are arguing that the reports painted him as a war criminal and complicit in the murder of six unarmed Afghan prisoners.

The newspapers have pleaded a truth defence in the case being heard at the Federal Court in Sydney, which is being bankrolled by Robert-Smith's employer, the Seven Network's billionaire owner Kerry Stokes.

A Sydney federal court heard on Wednesday that former SAS Ben Roberts-Smith ordered a subordinate to kill an Afghan prisoner during the raid in Kakarak, southern Afghanistan, on Easter Day in 2009, before shooting another man in the back. Pictured: Queen Elizabeth II shakes hands with Roberts-Smith during a reception for the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association at in the Picture Gallery at Buckingham Palace on May 16, 2018 in London

The new evidence emerged yesterday as the Covid-delayed trial resumed, with Person 41 giving further evidence today, saying his fellow troops were openly hostile towards Roberts-Smith and felt he was undeserving of the Victoria Cross.

The serving soldier is the first Australian-based witness called for the media outlets in the defamation trial. He was involved in the 2009 mission to a Taliban compound nicknamed Whiskey 108, located in Uruzgan province.

Person 41 described to the court stepping over the rubble of a bomb-destroyed wall to enter a courtyard where Mr Roberts-Smith and other soldiers were standing.

He said he entered an adjoining room, finding opium and what he believed was bomb-making equipment, before returning to the courtyard to find Mr Roberts-Smith, one other soldier and a squatting, older Afghan man.

Mr Roberts-Smith and the other soldier, code-named Person Four for the trial, asked to borrow Person 41's suppressor, he told the court.

'I thought it was a strange request but I complied ... thinking he must need it because he's going to go into the tunnel,' Person 41 told the Federal Court.

Pictured: Former SAS corporal Ben Roberts-Smith attends court in Sydney on Thursday

But that thought changed, he said, when Person Four fitted the suppressor to his gun and walked with Mr Roberts-Smith back towards the Afghan man.

Mr Roberts-Smith grabbed the Afghan man 'by the scruff' of his shirt, marched him to Person Four and kicked out the Afghan's legs to force him to kneel, facing away.

'RS pointed to the Afghan and said 'shoot him' and stepped to the side,' Person 41 told the court.

The witness said he stepped back inside the room. 'I didn't wish to witness what was about to happen' - and heard a single, suppressed shot.

He waited another '15 or so seconds' before walking back into the courtyard, where only Person Four remained. 'There was a dead Afghan at his feet,' he said.

As far as Person 41 could remember, nothing was said as Person Four returned the warm suppressor to him.

Mr Roberts-Smith has previously testified the suggestion he ordered the man's death 'shocked' and upset him, as 'my professionalism was being targeted by these individuals and such an outrageous claim was being made.'

Person 41 also said Roberts-Smith himself killed an Afghan man with a machine-gun.

As he left the courtyard, Person 41 told the court he noticed that Roberts-Smith had grabbed another Afghan man by the scruff of his clothes.

'He then proceeded to throw the Afghan male down on to the ground; the man landed on his back. RS then reached down, grabbed him by the shoulder, flipped him over on to his stomach and then I observed him lower his machinegun and shoot approximately three to five rounds into the back of the Afghan male,' he said, according to The Times.

Ben Roberts-Smith VC and his wife Emma Roberts-Smith posing for a photo during a reception to celebrate military and civilian heroes in central London. Victoria Cross recipient Corporal Ben Roberts-Smith is quitting the army to pursue a career in business, Monday, Feb. 11, 2013

Roberts-Smith had admitted to killing the man, but has said that he was a militant running outside the compound and carrying a weapon, and was therefore a legitimate target.

The man had a prosthetic leg, which Person 41 admitted in court to drinking from at the Australian soldier's unofficial bar on their base - the Fat Ladies Arms. He said now, he was ashamed of doing so.

He also told the court that it wasn't until 2020 that he told anyone of what he had witnessed in 2009, fearing that he would be ostracised if he did.

In a second day of evidence from Person 41 on Thursday, he said that he believed Robert-Smith was a competent and brave soldier, but that some of his colleagues in the SAS regiment were 'haters' who thought Robert-Smith was 'arrogant'.

He said they thought the decorated soldier 'thought he was better than everyone else', and that he was undeserving of his accolades.

The trial continues.

Ben Roberts-Smith arrives at the Federal Court in Sydney, Thursday, February 3, 2022

Arthur Moses (centre), barrister for Ben Roberts-Smith, arrives at the Federal Court in Sydney, Thursday, February 3, 2022

The marquee defamation trial resumed on Wednesday in Sydney after a six-month hiatus caused by a lockdown in New South Wales W and hard border in Western Australia.

Whilst some journalists can follow a live web stream, it cannot be publicly accessed out of concern for potential 'inadvertent disclosure' of national security information by witnesses, the judge has ruled.

Instead, the court will upload a redacted recording of each day's hearing to YouTube within 24 hours.

The newspapers propose to call two dozen witnesses - about 10 of whom reside in Western Australia - including possibly calling his ex-wife.

Robert-Smith was awarded the Victoria Cross for actions at Tizak in June 2010 and the Medal for Gallantry for an earlier battle near the Chora Pass in May 2006.

In 2013, he was presented the Victoria Cross in London at Buckingham Palace with his now ex-wife, where he met Queen Elizabeth II.
GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Invitation to attend Vitrolife's conference call regarding presentation of the Report on Operations 2021. The presentation will be held in English.

Time: Wednesday 16 February, 2022 at 10.00 a.m. CET.

Registration can preferably be done 10-15 minutes before the conference start time on:

Sweden dial in number: +46 (0)8 506 921 69

International dial in number: +44 (0) 2030 095709

Conference name: Vitrolife, conference ID: 9477484

Event Passcode: 9477484

Vitrolife participants:Thomas Axelsson, CEOPatrik Tolf, CFO

The press release for Vitrolife's Report on Operations will be released at 8.00 CET on the same day.

Before the conference call, presentation material will be available at the company web page, https://www.vitrolife.com/investors/Presentations/

A recorded version of the telephone conference will be available for seven days on number +44 (0) 333 300 9785 (International), access code 9477484.

Gothenburg, 3 February 2022VITROLIFE AB (publ)

For further information, please contact:

Patrik Tolf, CFO, +46 (0) 31 766 90 21

This is a translation of the Swedish version of the press release. When in doubt, the Swedish wording prevails.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/vitrolife-ab--publ-/r/conference-call-report-on-operations-2021,c3498105

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Less than a quarter of working age adults would consider applying for a job in agriculture, according to research looking at the UK's growing skills shortages.

Working age adults are shunning many of the essential jobs that keep the UK running  from food production and logistics to health and social care.

Just a quarter of working age adults would work in social care (25%) and healthcare (26%), and only 22% would work in food production, agriculture or animal care.

Poor reputation and low pay expectations fuel unattractiveness as cost-of-living skyrockets, according to City & Guilds research.

The skills development organisation warned that these factors were "turning off potential new recruits."

With more than three million essential job openings expected in the next five years, including 340,000 brand new jobs, many farm employers, who are already reporting dire skills shortages, are set to struggle even further in the years ahead.

This is particularly true with additional constraints placed on the labour market, due factors such as the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit.

For UK pig producers, a sector which has experienced the worst of the shortages, a lack of labour in processing plants has led to a huge backlog of pigs on farms.

Kirstie Donnelly, CEO City & Guilds, said the research showed that low salaries, unattractive working conditions and a lack of respect for critical jobs were to blame.

She warned that these reasons were having "a catastrophic impact on the ability of employers to fill these roles".

In the face of a growing labour crisis that is impacting these vital industries and wider society, we need to collectively take a long, hard look at how we can make these jobs more attractive.

"We must improve careers advice to make people aware of the range of roles available within their own skillsets, and the training available, as well as the opportunities to progress in these sectors."

According to the research, low pay and a lack of relevant skills, experience or qualifications are two key reasons putting people off working in these jobs.

While many essential workers say they are proud of their roles (73%), the vast majority (87%) call for improvements to the overall reputation of their role, and over half (53%) say better pay would improve that reputation.

City & Guilds research was based on an Opinium survey of 10,000 working age people in the UK and economic analysis from labour market economists Emsi Burning Glass UK.
The police in Abia State have confirmed the killing of a cyclist by his colleague over a plate of rice.

The police spokesperson in the state, Geoffrey Ogbonna, who disclosed this on Wednesday to reporters in Umuahia, said the suspect turned himself in, to the police.

The incident happened on Monday at a local eatery in Uzompka Street in Amaiyi, Owerri-Aba in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area of the state.

Two cyclists were said to have entered an eatery to eat, alongside other colleagues.

While the two were settling down, another cyclist, identified as Chinenye, entered and demanded food, according to a resident of the area.

Not wanting to be upstaged, an already seated cyclist, named Oberagu, who had arrived before Chinenye, told him to wait for his turn.

The owner of the eating spot supported their position and went on to serve food to the other persons who came before Chinenye.

On noticing that, Chinenye started threatening the woman and the other cyclists, shouting that if the woman dared not to serve food to him and his group, he would scatter everywhere, the resident said.

Continuing, he said: That was what caused the fight, in which other cyclists joined to beat up Chinenye, who left in humiliation.

The other boys were still eating when he (Chinenye) came back in the company of other cyclists.

With everyone running away, Chinenye drew closer and shot him in the stomach and disappeared with the cyclist that brought him.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) learnt the injured cyclist was rushed to a nearby hospital by concerned residents and was pronounced dead by doctors on duty.

Angered by the incident, the youth in the community set ablaze the suspects family compound and a house belonging to the cyclist who took him (Chinenye) back to the eatery.

(NAN)
A BBC and Netflix filmmaker has been jailed for two and a half years after waging a 'vile' cyber bullying campaign against a student who rejected him.

Riagain Grainger, 22, from Trillick, Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, launched the 'cruel and vindictive' attack on Georgia Smith on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat.

The thug created up to 26 accounts to fat-shame the 21-year old, mock her appearance and vowed to kill and mutilate her body.

He also posted doctored pictures of her on multiple pornographic websites and invited her to take her own life - or face being killed by him.

Grainger, who was at Manchester Metropolitan University with Miss Smith studying BA degrees in cinematography and film-making, would also loiter outside her house.

He would take clandestine pictures of the student halls and post them on social media with captions saying: 'I am watching every move you make.'

The cyber thug created up to 26 accounts to fat-shame the 21-year old (pictured), mock her appearance and vowed to kill and mutilate her body

He also posted pictures of her on multiple pornographic websites and invited her to take her own life - or face being killed by him. He is pictured with one of his awards

One creepy message said: 'What happens when a brick smashes through your window - you scream.

'I have been watching every step you have made within the last week I know where you have been I've followed you places you haven't even noticed.'

His vicious campaign of harassment left Miss Smith so terrified she is now unable to leave her home.

Grainger admitted stalking between September and October 2019 and was ordered to pay Miss Smith 2,500 compensation.

It marks a huge fall from grace for the filmmaker, who was nominated for awards at the Cannes Film Festival and won others for his work in Paris and New York.

Riagain Grainger (pictured), 22, from Trillick, Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, launched the 'cruel and vindictive' attack on Georgia Smith on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat

He had also earned the admiration of Oscar winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley and Ghostbusters director Paul Feig.

In a police statement Miss Smith, from Middlesbrough, said: 'I will not feel safe again until I know he can no longer hurt me.

'What happened became so regular I would barely have time to breath before there was another message.

'When I heard the phone ring, I would have a panic attack. It was the fear of what these messages said.

'I have always struggled with my appearance but I was confident enough not to care - however these messages have torn my confidence away.

'They have made me think about my weight, facial features and even the colour of my hair.

'It made me feel smaller and smaller every single day. I did not leave my bedroom for weeks on end.

'I could not do anything as I felt as if he was watching and following me. At university he would stare at me from across the room and spent my entire third year living at home panicking he was outside my front door.

'I have constant nightmares about him which have not stopped that he is torturing me.

'My anxiety has never been so high and I cannot be the person I should be because of him.

'He took away my choice to learn how to live and be independent and I find it hard to trust anyone as I have an innate fear it will happen to me again.'

In a police statement Miss Smith (pictured), from Middlesbrough, said: 'I will not feel safe again until I know he can no longer hurt me'

Further police inquiries revealed he had used social media to harass two other young women.

Sentencing Judge Timothy Smith told Grainger: 'You subjected Ms Smith to a protracted, persistent stalking campaign by attending outside her home address and bombarding her with the most vile, abusive and threatening messages that were calculated and intended to cause her real harm, distress and upset.

'It was a torrent of the most cruel, mean, abusive, abhorrent, vile, vindictive, and hate filled invective.

'Every time she blocked an Instagram account, within minutes, there would be a new message.

'She would wake up and have several different accounts messaging her with multiple messages. She could scarcely breathe before there would be another.

'Eventually Ms Smith removed herself from Instagram entirely to prevent more messaging however you simply moved to Facebook with profile pictures included those of Ms Smith edited to look like pornographic images - as well as one picture of a person who had blood pouring down her face.

'They are some of the nastiest and most repellent messages I have seen. They were crafted and designed to abuse, undermine, demean, harm, hurt and generate fear - and they clearly did so.'

Further police inquiries revealed Grainger (pictured outside court) had used social media to harass two other young women

The court heard the pair had met in March 2019 at a nightclub in Manchester where they swapped numbers and social media accounts and became friends.

Trouble began when she went home for the summer and he began messaging her saying he was lonely.

Mr Ben Berkson prosecuting said: 'She went on a holiday with other university mates and this angered Mr Grainger who felt affronted that her other friends were prioritised over him. Ms Smith stopped contact with him and deleted him off Instagram and Snapchat.

'But she was then subjected to frequent and insulting messages on Facebook and Instagram from unknown accounts.

'She naturally blocked those accounts however more and more messages were being sent to her and Ms Smith discovered her Instagram photographs were being used on multiple porn websites.

'There was also a threat to kill issued to Ms Smith from an account describing how they would like to plunge a knife into her stomach and slitting her throat.'

He continued: 'There is a certain vulnerability about a young girl who has fled the nest for the first time for university.

'She was left in the knowledge edited pictures of her are now on the internet on porn sites, which is a particularly spiteful aspect of this offending.

'Her housemates had to pace the streets in order to try and identify the individual who was terrorising their friend.'

'On one occasion they apprehended Mr Grainger who was stalking their house - telling him to leave the area on multiple occasions.'

In some messages, Grainger told Ms Smith: 'Have you ever thought about killing yourself. Kill yourself - everyone wants that. Go jump off a bridge.

'I cannot wait to plunge this knife into your stomach and see you in pain. No one thinks you're pretty.'

Grainger was arrested in October 2019 after being spotted lurking outside Ms Smith's (pictured) house by her boyfriend

Grainger was arrested in October 2019 after being spotted lurking outside Ms Smith's house by her boyfriend.

Police found incriminating pictures of the property on his pen drives and phone and discovered internet searches for images of 'bloody bodies.'

The thug later falsely claimed an ex-girlfriend sent malicious messages to Ms Smith.

The court heard he had a caution for harassment for 2015 and was subject to a two year probation order at Belfast for harassing a third woman.

In mitigation defence counsel Michael Goldwater: 'From living in a small farming community, he moved to Manchester for his education which was a culture shock coming from his background.

'He had undiagnosed mental health issues at that stage and was drawn to the victim because she struggles from similar difficulties which he did.

'Because of his mental health, he did not take rejection well and the ending of the relationship caused him to break down.

The thug (pictured, giving a lecture) later falsely claimed an ex-girlfriend sent malicious messages to Ms Smith

'He has a creative ability and his career in film making has become an exemplary success.

'Since graduating from Belfast university in film studies with a first-class degree, he has gone on to work on significant projects including Dungeons and Dragons, as well as then working with well-known filmmakers on School for Good and Evil.

'He is currently working with BBC3 on a comedy. He has a contract with Netflix to do a comedy and his diary is backed up.

'He produced Mr Bakers Wonderful World at university which won awards in Paris and New York which is shortly to be released on Amazon.

'He is working for HBO at the end of March. His list of achievements are significant.

'He has an immense creative talent; he is busy working hard in a well-rewarded industry. He is an assistant director at the moment.

'If he continues at this rate, he will become a very well-known film maker and producer in the future.

'He has commendations from Paul Feig, producer of Ghostbusters and Ben Kingsley, just to name a few.

Grainger was also made subject to an indefinite stalking prevention order.

After the case Det Con Thomas Small, of Greater Manchester Police said: 'Stalking can have a devastating effect on a victim and their loved ones.

'Everyone has the right to live their life without fear and harassment, and Grainger made that impossible for this young woman.'
When we are planning an anniversary meal at home for the family, it is sometimes quite difficult to think of a dish that will make the meal a memorable one for everyone.

If theres a special family lunch or dinner in the offing that you want to end on a culinary fanfare, theres a Spanish speciality that will be quite unknown to most of your guests  even the Spaniards among them.

This little item is one of Spains most magnificent cheeses  and it is also one that is little known within the country and abroad.

If you were to ask your Spanish friends and acquaintances if they had ever tasted Torta del Casar, the majority would say no and several of them would never have heard of the name  so they wouldnt even know its a cheese.

Torta del Casar is an unusual and unique cheese that is available only at specialist shops or in well-stocked supermarkets. The key to understanding Torta del Casar is the word torta.

It means pie, tart or flan and the cheese is given that name because it is in a round natural skin-like casing and not very deep  but also because of the singular way in which it is cut.

Instead of being sliced or cut into wedges, which is how we deal with most other cheeses, one carefully cuts round the edge of the Torta del Casar top and lifts it off in one piece, as if it were a lid. That is when it looks like a pie, tart or flan.

The reason for opening the cheese in this way isnt some gimmick or a foodies whim  this method is absolutely essential if we are to enjoy the cheese to it fullest.

Another Torta del Casar characteristic is that the cheese within its outer skin is thick and unctuous, as if it were melted. The ideal way to eat Torta del Casar is to scoop the cheese out of its thick natural skin mould with a short broad knife or a small spoon, and then spread it on bread, toast or biscuits. I have seen avid Torta del Casar lovers eat it direct from the spoon.

If Torta del Casar is so unusual and so splendid, why is it so little known in Spain and the rest of the world?

Part of the reason is that production is extremely low, so it is not so widely available as other top cheeses such as Cabrales, Idiazabal or Roncal.

Torta del Casar is also one of Spains more expensive cheeses, so it is out of the scope of many peoples weekly food budget.

There is yet another little problem. As the texture of Torta del Casar is almost that of melted cheese, it cannot be sold in slices or wedges, so customers must buy a whole one.

But the majority of shoppers dont want a whole cheese weighing a kilo or half a kilo  and most people miss out on Torta del Casar.

But the makers have addressed that little problem and produced the cheese in smaller formats. Torta del Casar, however, is still an expensive cheese and for most of us a treat for special occasions.

As the cheese isnt as well known as it should be (even for those who can afford it) the Torta del Casar Denominacion de Origen Protegida (DOP) visits different parts of Spain to promote the cheese.

Officials from the DOP body, which guarantees the authenticity of all Torta del Casar cheeses with their distinctive red and gold label, some years ago did a bit of PR work in Palma with the help of top cook Koldo Royo, who had his Michelin star restaurant at that time.

Koldos contribution to the PR effort was to do a tasting menu that featured Torta del Casar in every dish from nibbles and starters to dessert.

Tiny tapas included a strawberry stuffed with the cheese, and a cream of pumpkin soup afloat with snippets of the cheese.

The first starter was a tomato salad and little globules of Torta del Casar and a macaroni impregnated with the cheese and truffle oil.

The fish course was grilled mackerel with grilled potatoes topped with Torta del Casar. The meat dish was rack of lamb in its own juices with a creamy Torta del Casar sauce.

Dessert was a crunchy fig spongecake, with Torta del Casar and prickly pear ice cream.

Koldo, whose restaurant in those days was one of the first to include Torta del Casar on his cheese board, said at the time that the cheese has special qualities that make it unique.

Koldo used to buy his cheese direct from a supplier in Casar, about 10 kilometres north of Caceres, the capital of Extremadura.

But theres no need for us to go that far to get some Torta de Casar. Youll find it at the Fausto Izquierdo stall in the Santa Catalina market as well as the supermarkets of El Corte Ingles in Avda Jaime III and the Avenidas.

One of the best ways of dealing with a biggish Torta del Casar is to have it on its own for a light lunch main course with 6-8 people at table, plus three suitable wines and a selection of good breads and biscuits.

Have it with reds that have plenty of body or whites that have been aged in oak. You could also try a cava, an oloroso sherry, and even a cream sherry thats not too sweet.

Youll get maximum enjoyment out of this cheese by ruling out any kind of accompaniments. Dont even do a salad.

Have a cream soup as a hot starter (such as Koldos cream of pumpkin), his macaroni dish or a light fettuccine.

One of the beauties of having a Torta del Casar in this way is that it would be used up in one meal. If the cheese is eaten over two or three meals, it has to be kept in the fridge and taken out at least an hour before it is needed.

Temperatures that fluctuate are never good for cheeses, especially such a delicate one as Torta del Casar.

A meal in which Torta del Casar is the top-of-the-bill act could end with a hot or cold dessert thats everyones favourite.

Some years ago I tried the cheese with fidelini, an ultra-thin Italian long pasta that is my favourite.

I made a plain sauce with fresh ramellet tomatoes and when it was thick and smooth and vary hot, I stirred in some Torta del Casar. As the cheese is so soft it quickly combined nicely with the tomato sauce.

This was a rich dish, so it was more of a luxurious starter than a mains. I didnt use any grated parmesan because it would have overwhelmed the subtle but distinctive flavour of the Torta del Casar.

This cheese is made from unpasteurised merino ewes milk and it is aged for two months. Merino ewes give very little milk, another reason why Torta del Casar production figures are so low.

The cheese has a marble-like colour, a creamy texture, intense aromas, an exquisite slightly bitter taste and it is not very salty.

It should always be served at room temperature, about 21C. Never eat it direct from the fridge or youll miss out on its delicate taste.
Amy Childs looked nothing short of sensational as she took part in a photoshoot promoting her new Prosecco range.

The TOWIE star, 31, put on a busty display for the shoot as she donned a plunging white blazer mini dress.

Styling her brunette locks into a sleek bob, Amy added to her look with a light pallet of makeup.

Stunning: Amy Childs put on a busty display in a white plunging blazer mini dress as she took part in a photoshoot promoting her new Prosecco range

Posing in a bar, Amy completed her outfit with a pair of silver dangling earrings and credited her cousin and former TOWIE star Harry Derbidge with doing her makeup.

Alongside the post, she wrote: 'My dream has come true  What a day, My photoshoot for my Prosecco @liquiddiamondwine.

'I am so happy with the hard work me and the team have worked to make this happen also we have just launched on. I am so proud!!'

The star also gushed about her boyfriend Billy Delbosq, writing: 'Also thank you to my amazing boyfriend who supports me everyday. I love you @billydelbosq8'.

Family: Amy completed her outfit with a pair of silver dangling earrings and credited her cousin and former TOWIE star Harry Derbidge with doing her makeup

It comes after Amy was seen exiting a clinic late last month after revealing she had undergone chin liposuction.

The star opened up on her stories saying 'it really gets her down' when she watches herself on TV.

Sitting in a blue paper gown from Dr. Saleena's clinic in Leeds the beauty revealed she was 'very nervous but excited.'

The reality TV star spoke candidly about her decision saying 'today I am going to be having liposuction under my chin.

'It's something that I wanted for so long, I have tried so many treatments and this really bothers me.'

Change: It comes after Amy was seen exiting a clinic late last month after revealing she had undergone chin liposuction

Before: The star showed off medical markings on her jaw ahead of the procedure

She continued: 'When I watch myself on TV, honestly it really gets me down, so I booked a consultation with Seleena and I am also having my treatment done today as well so I am going to show you some before and afters.'

In a snap posted to her stories Amy had blue markings on her chin and face as she posed for a side angle snap.

She wrote: 'Little bit nervous but always wanted to have this done. Can't wait to show you my results in the next following weeks.'

A few hours later, the star shared another snap with her chin strapped up in bandages.

She wrote: 'All done, look like a chipmunk but can't wait to show you my end results.'

All done: A few hours later, the star shared another snap with her chin strapped up in bandages

It comes after Amy confirmed she had a new romance with gym owner and First Dates star Billy in October.

MailOnline revealed Amy was dating Billy in September, after the reality star was spotted enjoying champagne-filled dates with the businessman and attending fitness classes at his gym.

Billy is a successful businessman and owns two companies, Box Gym Fitness in Brentwood and LVT which specialises in domestic flooring.

New romance: Amy confirmed she had a new romance with gym owner and First Dates star Billy Delbosq in October (pictured in November 2021)

According to his Instagram bio, he is also a director of carpet and flooring shop Delbosq Ltd.

In 2018, he also appeared on reality dating show First Dates.

In late September the mother-of-two was spotted with Billy in London, which was the first time the couple have been seen out together in public.

During The TOWIE Afterparty show host Bobby Norris, 35, asked Amy how her love life was following the breakdown of her relationship with ex-boyfriend Tim.

Amy cheekily revealed that had been spending time with someone new and that she was now 'happy again'.

She replied: 'Do you know what, Bob? I do rush into relationships, you know me. I rush in, but do you know what? I'm happy.'
The Majority Chief Whip of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Nsawam/Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has admonished his colleague opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs never to launch an attack on the Speaker's Chair again.

Such acts, he noted, are akin to the numerous coup detats the West Africa sub-region has witnessed in recent months.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament in reactions to some comments made by Okudzto Ablawkwa, MP for North Tongu, Annoh-Dompreh said the ruling class must be seen to be championing democracy wherever they find themselves, stressing that any act contrary to that will derail the gains Ghana has made in its democratic dispensation.

Condemning the statements made by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on the successive coup d'etats in Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso, and the recent attempted coup in Guinea Bissau, Annoh-Dompreh said attacks on the Speaker's Chair by the NDC MPs during the previous meeting could best be described as coup d'etat, urging all to reflect on the distasteful act and purge themselves.

It cannot be justified under any circumstance that Members of Parliament will reduce intellectual arguments into fisticuffs and we have people who were targeting the seat of the Speaker. It cannot be that. And if you are continuously engage in that, you are preparing the grounds for the unfortunate.

According to him, It is high time we also reflect. Growing up as a leader, I have never seen MPs going after the Speaker's seat, I have never seen that. Both sides need to reflect on it. The ruling class must reflect and we are part of the ruling class. We cannot at one time or one hand condemn coup d'etat and at another hand surreptitiously and physically try to attack the Speaker of Parliament. For me, that is a form of coup d'etat. Anybody that engages in a fisticuff in Parliament here is fueling and facilitating a coup d'etat and must be condemned in no uncertain terms.

During the consideration and approval of the 2022 budget in late November last year, a disagreement ensued in the House following accusations by the Minority that the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu who chaired the sitting erred in counting himself as part of the Majority to form a quorum to overturn their decision and approve the budget.

The Bekwai MP, Osei Owusu, affectionately called Joe Wise, after listening to arguments for and against the approval of the budget, ruled in favor of the Majority and argued that he did not partake in the voting for the approval of the budget, hence his ruling.

This resulted in heated arguments in the House leading to the NDC MP for Ashaiman, Ernest Norgbey, taking the Speaker's chair from its original position.

Norgbey commenting on his action told journalists that he was preserving the seat for the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin who was on medical leave in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

On December 21, 2021, a brawl broke out in Parliament during a late-night sitting over the government's proposed Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy).

Members from both sides of the House shoved, pushed, and threw punches at each other while others tried to separate them.

It took the intervention of the Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu, to let sanity prevail in the House.

This was after some NDC MPs had rushed forward to take the Speaker's Chair and prevent the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Andrews Asiamah, from taking over the Chair to enable the First Deputy Speaker, Joe Wise, who was then presiding over the sitting to take part in a voting exercise over the controversial E-Levy.

The opposition NDC MPs had rejected the proposed E-Levy of 1.75% on electronic transfers which included mobile-money payments.

However, Annoh-Dompreh reflecting over those scenes told Parliament that never should such acts be repeated in the chamber, urging all MPs to say not to fisticuffs on the floor of the House.

You cannot be condemning coup d'etat; you cannot be condemning people who take advantage of the law; you cannot be condemning people who will not resort to the law court and yet you come here and engage in fisticuffs and you expect the good people of this country to praise you. This statement is timely and I want to sound a word of caution that if we don't reflect positively and show the way in terms of democracy, we are leading this country into danger and posterity will not forgive this 8th Parliament if this will continue, he asserted.

 BY Daniel Bampoe
Two police officers have been caught seemingly 'celebrating' moments after pepper-spraying a number of anti-vaxxer protestors.

The Canberra based cops were on duty at Parliament House lawn during a tense confrontation on Wednesday afternoon, with damning footage showing the pair cheering one another with their capsicum spray cans.

The footage, which was captured on a live social media feed during the 'Convoy to Canberra' rally, has since been widely shared on a number of online platforms.

A spokesperson from ACT Policing confirmed both officers were counselled by senior colleagues following the incident.

On Wednesday, the crowd of protesters in the nation's capital suddenly became aggressive and surrounded police when a woman allegedly obstructed the pathway of an officer.

Two police officers have been caught 'celebrating' moments after pepper-spraying a number of anti-vaxxer protestors in Canberra on Wednesday (pictured)

In tense scenes, ACT police arrested three protestors, including this 'freedom' demonstrator next to the National Library in Canberra on Wednesday

She then appeared to be shoved aside, with the woman responding by allegedly pushing the officer in the shoulder.

Seconds later she was arrested, which incensed a number of demonstrators.

The woman, Kerrie Lynne Woolley, 66, pleaded not guilty in the ACT Magistrates Court on Thursday to charges of assaulting a frontline community service provider and resisting a public official, according to the Canberra Times.

Two men were also charged with obstructing police and faced court on Thursday.

Amid the chaotic scenes, ACT Ambulance Service paramedics treated two people with minor injuries, but police say 'no people were transported to hospital'.

An ACT Policing spokesperson said they were 'generally happy with the overall response from officers' in what was a rapidly escalating situation.

A number of protesters first arrived in Canberra on Monday, congregating on the Parliament House lawn for the rally against vaccine mandates, which are present in all states and territories for select jobs.

Later they established a campsite on the Patrick White Lawns near the National Library and also rallied outside the National Press Club as Prime Minister Scott Morrison made an address on Tuesday.

More protesters are expected to arrive over the next few days.

Police said while Australians have the right to protest, in this case, demonstrators were gathering illegally.

'The rights of people to peacefully protest is always acknowledged by ACT Policing, however when illegal actions take place, the people responsible will be dealt with in accordance with the law,' police said.

A police officer is pictured using pepper spray on a man at the 'freedom' protest in Canberra at the Patrick White lawns on Wednesday

Police arrest a protester (pictured) at the campsite as tensions between officers and those at the rally reached boiling point

Police were out in force to arrest 'freedom' protesters at their makeshift camp next to the National Library in Canberra on Wednesday

Dubbed the Convoy to Canberra rally, hundreds of demonstrators in cars, trucks, motorhomes and caravans descended on the Australian capital on Monday, setting up camp at Patrick White lawns across from the National Library and nearby Parliament house

Police are also encouraging local workers and visitors to avoid the Parliamentary Triangle, with protest activities expected to continue well into next week.

'Where Parliamentary Triangle workers have the ability to do so, and in consultation with their employer, alternate work locations could be considered,' they said in a statement.

'Walkers, joggers and cyclists should assess their need to move through the area.'

Many of the protesters were ruthlessly mocked on social media when they arrived at Parliament House on Monday, not realising many politicians wouldn't be around to hear their messages as it was a non-sitting week.

Sitting of Parliament doesn't resume until next Monday.

Police form a line against 'freedom' protesters at their makeshift camp next to the National Library in Canberra on Wednesday

A protester is pictured getting knocked to the ground as police move in on protesters who illegally gathered next to the National Library in Canberra
CHARLESTON, W.Va.  West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice announced the preliminary approval of over $17.4 million in Line Extension Advancement and Development program funds for various broadband infrastructure projects throughout the state. This marks the first round of grants awarded as part of the West Virginia Broadband Investment Plan.

Grant recipients were selected among applicants in the LEAD programs first application round, which closed on Nov. 30. This allocation of state funding, in the amount of $17,401,764, will leverage an additional $5,140,146 in additional funds, for a total broadband infrastructure investment of $22,541,910.

The investment will result in nearly 400 miles of new fiber infrastructure and will provide broadband connectivity to more than 5,000 homes and businesses in West Virginia.

Program

The LEAD program includes two additional application rounds, one of which closed Dec. 30, while the other will close Jan. 30. Additional approvals will be issued in the coming weeks. Funding for the program is provided through the West Virginia Legislatures allocation of $100 million to create the West Virginia Broadband Development Fund.

The fund includes $90 million in funding through the American Rescue Plan Act and $10 million in state general revenue funds. Funds are also derived through the ARPA Capital Projects Fund, which includes $136 million for broadband development in West Virginia. The West Virginia Department of Economic Developments Office of Broadband will administer program funds.

Under the plan, projects selected for award will receive a preliminary approval announcement, which will be published on broadband.wv.gov.

Internet service providers other than the applicant will receive an opportunity to submit data to the West Virginia Department of Economic Development demonstrating that the provider currently offers broadband service at 25/3 megabits per second or greater to addresses within the proposed project funded service area.

Data submitted must meet all the requirements described in the process for soliciting information regarding unserved areas, which the department published July 12.

Projects

Citynet-Green Valley Line Extension will receive $1,191,534 for a project that will reach 265 addresses in Harrison County and install about 26 miles of fiber infrastructure. Comcast KEY will receive $4,738,185 to install about 120 miles of fiber infrastructure and reach 1,447 addresses in Brooke, Hancock and Ohio counties.

Comcast BLT will receive $2,855,246 for a project to reach 716 addresses and install about 59 miles of fiber infrastructure in Morgan, Putnam, Kanawha and Cabell counties. Digital Connections-Prodigi will receive $4,592,645 to expand broadband to 1,203 addresses in western Preston County, installing about 93 miles of fiber infrastructure.

Digital Connections-Prodigi will also receive $3,840,913 to reach 1,455 addresses in north central Preston County and install about 60 miles of fiber infrastructure. HardyNet will receive $183,241 to install 10 miles of fiber and expand broadband to 58 addresses in Hardy County.
Indiana Teen Sentenced to 100 Years for Killing 2 Siblings

VERSAILLES, Ind.A southeastern Indiana teenager has been sentenced to 100 years in prison for the suffocation deaths of his two young siblings months apart in 2017, when he was 13 years old.

A Ripley County judge ordered the sentence Tuesday for Nickalas Kedrowitz. Jurors convicted him in August on two counts of murder for the killings of his 23-month-old half-sister, Desiree McCartney, and his 11-month-old stepbrother, Nathaniel Ritz.

Kedrowitz was arrested in August 2018 in the May 2017 killing of Desiree and the July 2017 killing of Nathaniel, both of whom were found unresponsive at the familys home in Osgood, about 60 miles southeast of Indianapolis.

The judge ordered 50-year prison terms for each death to be served one after the other.

Ripley County Prosecutor Richard Hertel said Kedrowitz told detectives that he was freeing his siblings from hell.

This wasnt some sort of heat of passion, one killing and then minutes or hours or even days later, were talking months here, so we think that the consecutive part of the sentence was warranted and appropriate in this circumstance, Hertel told reporters after the sentencing hearing.

The judge ordered that Kedrowitzs case be handled in adult court despite his attorneys arguments that the teen has untreated mental health problems.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai attracted many guests and representatives of different countries, as a result of which ties have been establishment with various states, Minister of Economy of Armenia Vahan Kerobyan said in an interview to ARMENPRESS.

The Expo 2025 will be held in the Japanese city of Osaka, where Armenia intends to be represented at a higher category, the Minister said, adding that in Osaka, Armenia will have a separate building and the country will present the design and content of that building.

We have other plans with Osaka  to take a separate building and develop it by our own concept. We need to think something new for the Asian market. Finding cooperation ways with an Arab country in the commercial sector is another matter, we need to think of something new for being represented in Japan, he said.

He informed that during his speech at the National Day of Armenia on the sidelines of the Expo 2020 Dubai he has highlighted the invaluable contribution of Armenian scientists and innovators to the development of science, culture and technologies in the world. Our two most attractive advantages at this moment are the business climate and the IT sector. These two have advantages in our economy. We have properly presented the IT sector at the Expo 2020, he added.

Kerobyan said that the executive director of the Organizational Committe of Expo 2020 Dubai has stated that Armenia has a big potential in innovations, artificial intelligence and a number of other areas, highlighting the big intellectual resource that Armenia has in the field of creation of technologies.

Kerobyan also highlighted Armenias role in the Expo 2020, stating that ties have been established with different countries, such as Portugal, Russia, Kazakhstan, Slovenia, etc.

The Enterprise Armenia signed a memorandum of understanding with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. I consider important that we must be consistent with it and implement what is written in the document, the Armenian minister of economy said.

He informed that the Executive Director of the Expos Organizational Committee thanked Armenia for its participation to this global event and stated that this shows the close friendly ties existing between the two countries. He expressed confidence that the Expo will lead to new achievements and will open new cooperation opportunities for the participating countries, because especially now this global exhibition is an amazing platform to join the global debates of creating a more sustainable future.

Kerobyan highlighted the historical-cultural exhibits, the archaeological materials displayed in the Armenian pavilion, which, he said, attracted many visitors.

The visitors also had a chance to see via the AR (Augmented Reality) technology the creation and evolution process of each of the exhibits presenting the Armenian culture and history, he said.

Kerobyan also praised the performance of the Symphonic Orchestra together with a friendship band during the National Day of Armenia on the sidelines of the Expo.

The minister informed that pavilions are divided into three categories  A, B, and C. Armenia was in the C category, which is the most affordable one, and the Arab side allocated a building worth 1,5 million USD to Armenia for the pavilions. Kerobyan informed that they will apply for the B category during the next Expo.

The minister also said that each Expo has its philosophy. He expressed concerns that maybe energy saving concept will be chosen for the Expo 2025. He said that if this concept is chosen, Armenia will have many works to do. This time Armenia will have to be adapted to the Asian market.

Reporting by Karine Terteryan
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. As part of the Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenbergs visit to Armenia, the 8th session of the Armenian-Austrian Intergovernmental Commission for Commercial-Economic and Scientific-Technical Cooperation took place in Yerevan, where the future directions of cooperation in various sectors were outlined.

A protocol was signed by the Co-Chairs of the commission, the Deputy Minister of Economy Raphael Gevorgyan from Armenia and the Director-General for Economic Affairs, Innovation and International Policy at the Federal Ministry for Digital and Economic Affairs Florian Frauscher from Austria.

New prospects are opening for Armenian-Austrian bilateral cooperation, said Gevorgyan. The office of the Austrian Development Agency opened in Armenia, which means that bigger projects will be implemented in bilateral cooperation. Right now the main circle of cooperation is in agriculture, but we have goals to expand the directions.

Florian Frauscher also noted that there is big potential to develop the practical ties in numerous areas. One of these areas, according to Frauscher, is renewable energy. He said that Austrian companies are mostly interested in agriculture, industry and digitization.

I think Austrian and Armenian companies can work together in this area. There are many other areas with big potential. A large Austrian delegation has arrived here with us, and I see huge potential for partnership, Frauscher said.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. The construction of Yeraskh-Julfa-Ordubad-Meghri-Horadiz railway has been discussed in Yerevan, Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan said at the Cabinet meeting today, releasing details from the February 2 meeting of the Armenian deputy prime minister Mher Grigoryan, Russian deputy PM Alexei Overchuk and President of the Russian Railways OJSC Oleg Belozyorov.

Pashinyan said that they are very close to record the first practical results of the Armenia-Russia-Azerbaijan deputy prime ministerial working group dealing with the unblocking of regional communications as the February 2 meeting has been very practical and dedicated to the works on building the Yeraskh-Ordubad-Meghri-Horadiz railway.

We have already reached agreements on this topic, and the integral part of it is that we must build that railway and it should operate in the territory of Armenia within the Armenian legislation, in the territory of Azerbaijan within the Azerbaijani legislation, and yesterdays visit, in fact, was directed to make it practical, the PM said.

He informed that issues relating to the launch of the construction and the funding are already being discussed.

He said that if this dynamics continues, they can state confidently that implementing this opportunity will soon turn into reality.

Deputy PM Mher Grigoryan informed that they will have bilateral contacts connected with the restoration of the railway, because the South Caucasian Railways is the operator of the infrastructure.

I think that the Russian Railways is one of the most serious structures in the world, and the potential, experience and information they have is very important for the implementation and further operation of this project, he said.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. Flyone Armenias first roundtrip flight from Yerevan to Istanbul took place on February 2, with nearly 60 passengers departing Yerevans Zvartnots Airport for Istanbul Airport on board the airlines Airbus A320.

All leading Turkish media outlets were covering the flights arrival at the Istanbul airport.

Flyone Armenia Chairman of the Board Aram Ananyan, who accompanied the passengers on the flight, delivered remarks at the airport.

Dear friends, dear colleagues, I am glad to welcome you all and I am grateful for your attention and interest towards our flight and for your work. Our airline operated the first Yerevan-Istanbul flight, which connected our two ancient cities. Now, the passengers aboard our aircraft will travel from Istanbul to Yerevan. We attach importance to the restoration of mutual air connection between Yerevan and Istanbul and on this occasion Id like to thank the aviation authorities of the two countries, as well as our passengers for their trust. Id like to take this opportunity to also salute Pegasus airline, which will operate the Istanbul-Yerevan-Istanbul flight later tonight.

We represent aviation and dont want to talk politics. Thats not our mission.

Our mission is to offer high-quality, affordable and safe aviation services, which enable people and cities to be connected; economic and business ties get boosted, tourism and mutual visits intensify and we will do everything to fulfill our mission duly. We attach importance to the launch of these flights also in terms of closer connecting the Armenian community with Armenia.

I am convinced in our success.

I think many of you would like to know how Armenians view various issues back home. In my conviction, you can find the answers to all your questions by visiting Armenia, and we will be twice as glad to see you use our services when you do so, Ananyan said.

On February 3, Ananyan will have meetings with Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople Sahak II Mashalian and several representatives of the Armenian community of Istanbul.
Boris Johnson had zero role in the airlift of animals out of Afghanistan, a Foreign Office minister has insisted, branding the idea absurd.

Speaking in Parliament, Tory frontbencher Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park said he would have been appalled if the Prime Minister had been involved in such minutiae.

Acknowledging there was confusion with correspondence indicating Mr Johnson had directly approved the evacuation of cats and dogs with the Nowzad charity from Kabul, the Conservative peer pointed out it had been a particularly complicated time.

The PM has dismissed claims he personally intervened in the case as total rhubarb.

The case has sparked accusations that animals had been prioritised over people, with thousands trying to flee the Taliban left behind.

But answering a question at Westminster on the controversy, Lord Goldsmith insisted this had not been the case.

Puppies that been rescued and are looking to be re-homed inside the kennels at the Nowzad Dogs charity based in Kabul, Afghanistan (Ben Birchall/PA)

He told peers: People not animals were the priority during the Kabul evacuation.

Practical support for a donation-funded private charter flight, organised by Nowzad founder Paul Pen Farthing to get his staff and animals out, had been authorised by the Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, said Lord Goldsmith.

He added: This flight occurred after the civilian evacuation had come to an end.

It is worth just saying that 15,000 vulnerable people were evacuated from Kabul.

He went on: The Prime Minister had zero role in authorising individual evacuations from Afghanistan.

Pen Farthing was on one of the very last flights to leave Afghanistan.

He left on his own charter plane rather than on an RAF flight.

It was not part of the evacuation and the flight took place after the evacuation effort had ceased.

Animals were never prioritised over people at any point during the process.

The minister also sought to explain correspondence that appeared to contradict the PMs denials that he had ever intervened.

Emails shared with the Foreign Affairs Committee show an official in Lord Goldsmiths private office telling colleagues on August 25 that the PM has just authorised their staff and animals to be evacuated.

Story continues

Lord Goldsmith said: I dont deny that there is some confusion.

Its not uncommon in Whitehall, as anyone who has been a minister, for decisions to be interpreted or portrayed as coming directly from one department or another or even the Prime Minister, even when that isnt he case.

But in this instance, it is not relevant, because the decision was made publicly and directly by the Secretary of State (for Defence) as hes made clear.

He added: I cant tell you why the confusion arose other than the fact it was a particularly complicated time.

Ships holding position off the beaches at Dunkirk and smoke billowing (Imperial War Museum/PA)

But he insisted: At no point did the Government as a whole receive any kind of authorisation on this issue one way or the other, from the Prime Minister, who had no involvement at all.

The idea that the Prime Minister should be engaged in issues around the welfare of a handful of animals when were engaging as a Government in the biggest evacuation this country has ever been involved in is just absurd.

I would be appalled if the Prime Minister had been involved in such minutiae.

Hailing the evacuation effort, he said: I think we can salute our armed forces and those officials who worked incredibly hard to pull off this extraordinary feat.

Former Navy chief and Labour peer Lord West of Spithead reminded the minister that Dunkirk had been the largest evacuation in our history.

In response, Lord Goldsmith said: A very good point.

Referring to the current furore surrounding the Prime Minister, Lord Goldsmith said: In these frenzied days, in this feeding frenzy, small things can take on the perception of being very, very large things.

I think in the cold light of day in the months to come and people look back at this question we might wonder whether we have lost a sense of proportion.
by Elias Shilangwa

LUSAKA, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- China's resilience, determination and hard work in transforming itself from a poor country to the second-largest economy in the world should inspire African countries in their development aspirations, a Zambian expert said on Wednesday.

Sande Ngalande, Director of the Belt and Road Research Center of the University of Zambia, said Africa needs to look to China for advice and solutions on how to accelerate its development agenda.

"China is a great country coming from a humble background. It offers us, especially in Africa, a great lesson about how a people united, a people focused on a common goal, a people speaking the same language, having one vision and getting together to fight anything in their way can make sure they achieve great things," he told Xinhua.

China, he said, has shown that it was possible to achieve anything because of what the Asian nation has done in the last couple of years in ensuring that the living standards of its people are improved.

According to him, the lifting of about 800 million Chinese people out of poverty was a phenomenon that African countries need to learn from on how to tackle poverty, adding that this was made possible by the dedicated leadership.

Ngalande, who is also Director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Zambia, further commended China for going out of its way in helping other countries, especially in Africa, to improve not only infrastructure but human capacity and technical services.

He thanked China for its generosity in giving Zambia a railway link to the sea at the time the southern African nation had problems in exporting and importing goods, adding that this was done despite the Asian nation having problems of its own.

"By the time they were helping us with the TAZARA (Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority), China was also a poor country and nobody could think they could do such a thing," he added.

He hoped that the friendship between China and Zambia will continue to blossom despite the COVID-19 pandemic. 
A Christian school in Brisbane that asked parents to sign an enrolment contract allowing it to expel a child a gay or gender-fluid child has withdrawn the controversial document.

In a statement on Facebook, the principal of Citipointe Christian College, Pastor Brian Mulheran, said the school would revert to its previous terms of enrolment after 'reconsidering' the contract.

'We have considered that the process we followed in drafting and disseminating the amended enrolment contract could have been done in a better way,' Pastor Mulheran said.

He said the way the 'declaration of faith' was presented had caused concern 'within members of the College community, including our students'.

Citipointe Christian College at Carindale in Brisbane's south-east has withdrawn an enrolment contract it sent to parents in which it described homosexuality as immoral and said it would not recognise a student's claim to a gender identity

Citipointe Christian College's principal, Pastor Brian Mulheran (pictured) had tried to defend the contract as the college being 'clear and transparent' about its Christian beliefs

'The College believed that the amendments made to the enrolment contract were lawful and did not constitute discrimination.

'The College will not, and does not, discriminate in its operations.

'We deeply regret that some students may feel that they were, or would be, discriminated against because of their sexuality or gender identity.

'The College does not and will not unlawfully discriminate against a student in respect of their sexuality or gender identity.'

The principal said the school would enter into 'respectful dialogue' with the college community before considering any further changes to its enrolment terms.

The contract's withdrawal follows a week of intense opposition to the proposal by the school at Carindale, in Brisbane's south-east, which it asked parents to sign a week before Queensland school's resume on Monday, February 7.

The wording of the contract describes homosexuality as immoral and said it will not recognise a student's claim to a gender identity.

It also states it will only acknowledge gender assignment given at birth.

Failure to agree to the terms of the contract will 'afford Citipointe Christian College the right to exclude a student from the College who no longer adheres to the Colleges doctrinal precepts including those as to biological sex...'

'We believe that any form of sexual immorality (including but not limiting to adultery, fornication, homosexual acts, bisexual acts, bestiality, incest, paedophilia and pornography) is sinful and offensive to God and is destructive to human relationships and society,' part of the contract states.

The contract included new terms referring to a student's 'biological sex' that parents must agree to for a child to be enrolled.

'Whilst each student is individually valued and equally encouraged to pursue opportunities in both academic and co-curricular activities, I/we agree that, where distinctions are made between male and female (inclusive of, but not limited to, for example, uniforms, presentation, terminology, use of facilities and amenities, participation in sporting events and accommodation) such distinctions will be applied on the basis of the individuals biological sex,' it states.

Failure to agree to the terms will 'afford Citipointe Christian College the right to exclude a student from the College who no longer adheres to the Colleges doctrinal precepts including those as to biological sex...'

A section of the contract which states that homosexual acts are 'sinful and offensive to God and is destructive to human relationships and society'

The issuing of the contract sparked a change.org online petition to have the contract recalled which drew over 150,000 signatures.

State MP for the area Corrine McMillan also took to social media to say she was 'appalled' by the enrolment contract.

'Families seeking a Christian education should not have to contend with discrimination based on their childs gender or sexuality,' she posted.

'All policies and rules in all Queensland schools must reflect the Queensland Anti-discrimination and Human Rights Acts.'

In a statement posted on the school's website earlier this week, Pastor Mulheran said the school 'has always held these Christian beliefs'.

'We have tried to be fair and transparent to everyone in our community by making them clear in the enrolment contract.

The statement said the contract allowed parents and students to make 'an informed choice' about whether they could support the school's approach to Christian education.

'Citipointe does not judge students based on their sexuality or gender identity and we would not make a decision about their enrolment in the College solely on that basis,' Pastor Mulheran claimed, in contrast to the wording of the contract.

Former Citipointe student Bethany Lau has started a change.org online petition to have the enrolment contract recalled that has so far attracted over 27,000 signatures

Citipointe Christian College offers offers classes from Prep through to Year 12

He said the school had based the contract on legal advice it had received allowing it to vary its terms because it had been established for 'religious purposes'.

Former Citipointe student Bethany Lau, who started the online petition for the contract to be recalled, said Citipointe 'is using their religious beliefs to openly discriminate against queer and trans students, as well as threatening to take away their education.'

Another former student who said he had since come out as gay said he felt compelled to sign the petition because of the truth of sexual orientation and gender identity.

'We say we need to change the narrative but we continue to live in a world that's homophobic,' he wrote.

'At a time when they should be focusing on a Covid-safe return to school and student wellbeing, this school is looking for ways to proactively harm student wellbeing and teach students how to hate each other,' another person posted.

A number of former students staged an impromptu protest outside the school on Monday, draping pride flags across the school's fence.

A number of former students staged an impromptu protest outside the school on Monday, draping pride flags across the school's fence.

The school offers classes from Prep to Year 12.

Queensland schools return on Monday, February 7, two weeks after the original start date, to allow more five to 11-year-old students to receive a first Covid-19 vaccine.
Nicola Peltz wowed fans as she shared two striking selfies while showcasing her make-up artist's handiwork.

The 27-year-old fiancee of Brooklyn Beckham looked gorgeous as she displayed her flawless complexion and perfectly applied make-up in the close-up snaps shared to Instagram on Wednesday.

The actress didn't add a caption to her post, but instead let the images do the talking, with the beauty looking amazing as she sported dramatic smoky eyes with winged eyeliner.

Beautiful: Nicola Peltz wowed fans as she shared two striking selfies while showcasing her make-up artist's handiwork

Nicola also rocked glossy lips and rosy cheeks, with the stunner posing for the snaps from two angles.

Nicola was sure to show her appreciation for her gorgeous look, tagging La-based make-up artist Kendal Fedail in the snaps. She also tagged artist Amaran Asylum.

Her post garnered several positive comments from her fans rushed to remark how great she looked in the images.

It comes after reports Nicola and husband-to-be Brooklyn could be spending their honeymoon in space, following reports that their friends will buy them a Virgin Galactic trip.

Glam: The 27-year-old fiancee of Brooklyn Beckham looked gorgeous as she displayed her flawless complexion and perfectly applied make-up in the close-up snaps shared to Instagram on Wednesday

The photographer, 22, and the billion dollar heiress are set to tie the knot in a lavish ceremony on April 9 - and their wealthy friends are allegedly close to splashing 400,000 on the interstellar flights as the ultimate wedding present.

A source told The Mirror: 'Between his family and Nicola's, it's easy to get them on Richard Branson's first VIP space flight. The cost would be a drop in the ocean.

'Their rich friends are talking about forming a club to fund the gift. They think presenting it will be one of the high points of the wedding day.

'A lot of people will be vying for the title of "most impressive gift" at this wedding. The group talking about this know a ticket to space is sure to impress even billionaire guests and the Beckhams and Peltzes, who don't really need anything.'

Wow! It comes after reports Nicola and husband-to-be Brooklyn could be spending their honeymoon in space, following reports that their friends will buy them a Virgin Galactic trip

Out of this world: The couple are set to tie the knot in a lavish ceremony on April 9 - and their wealthy friends are allegedly close to splashing 400,000 on the interstellar flights

Pals of the eldest Beckham son are allegedly hoping to satisfy his love of photography by providing him with camera equipment from manufacturers including Kodak.

They're even believed to be sorting out a deal for him to take sponsored snaps while aboard the flight, which carries six passengers at a time.

Nicola's investor father Nelson, 79, who is thought to be hosting the star-studded wedding at his 75million Florida estate, has 'easy access' to Virgin founder Sir Richard, according to reports.

Despite his son's 'adventurous spirit', Brooklyn's dad David is thought to have previously rejected the opportunity to jet into space since he is 'too nervous'.

Brooklyn's representative has been contacted for comment by MailOnline.
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The new extended stay house of the Stay KooooK brand is being built on the Rue de la Servette in Geneva. The location couldn't be better: Cornavin main station is a ten-minute walk away. With the tram right in front of the door you are in twenty minutes at the international exhibition center Palexpo, in fifteen minutes at the airport and even faster at the UN headquarters, the Palais des Nations. The city's landmark, the Jet d'Eau on Lake Geneva, is also just a stone's throw away. The ideal place for travelers who want to stay longer in Geneva and feel at home.

Strong demand for extended staysThe first house of the Stay KooooK brand in Bern Wankdorf has held its own very well in a demanding market environment since it opened in September 2020. Within a short time after the travel restrictions in place to contain the corona pandemic were relaxed, all studios were fully booked. "The corona pandemic has given the extended stay segment even more impetus. Travelers are now more than ever looking for a safe retreat. We also see a trend towards longer business trips. Shorter trips are becoming rarer, because video conferencing has arrived in every company with the pandemic," explains Volker Thamm, Director Business Development SV Hotel. "That's why investors also see great potential in our concept."Retreat in the middle of the city.

The building was designed by the architects Frei Stefani from Geneva. The heart of every Stay KooooK is the living room. This will be on the 9th floor on Rue de la Servette, surrounded by an exclusive panoramic terrace. From here the view extends to the lake and the Mont Blanc massif. The house will have its own parking spaces, but with a tram station right outside the front door, it is also easily accessible by public transport. The fact that the studios are equipped with a kitchenette and washing machine makes it easy to set up for a longer period of time. With the sliding living element The Slide, guests can use the studio according to their needs. The hosts take time for individual guest needs and ensure that everyone feels welcome and at home at Stay KooooK.

The Stay KooooK project at a glance

Bern Wankdorf: Open since September 2020

Nuremberg City and Bern City: Under construction, opening planned for 2022

Leipzig City: Under construction, opening planned for 2023

Hamburg City: In planning, opening planned for 2024/2025

Geneva City: In planning, opening planned for 2023

Hotel website
By Kirsti Knolle and Ludwig Burger

BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany's expert panel on vaccine use on Thursday recommended Novavax's protein-based COVID-19 vaccine for basic immunisation for people over 18, in a push to win over the more than 15% of German adults still not fully vaccinated.

The high-profile advisory group known as STIKO said a booster shot should still be given with an mRNA vaccine, and particularly vulnerable people should also receive a second booster with an mRNA vaccine.

Novavax's recombinant protein vaccine uses a more established technology than mRNA, the novel method behind the two most commonly used COVID-19 vaccines in Germany - from Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna.

Recombinant protein vaccines have been in use since the mid-1980s and are now a standard tool to fight hepatitis B, the human papillomavirus behind cervical cancer and meningitis-causing bacteria.

Public health leaders have voiced hopes Novavax's product could convince as-yet unvaccinated people who are sceptical about the novel mRNA technology to get a shot.

Germany expects to receive 3.8 million doses of Novavax's Nuvaxovid vaccine by March 20 and a total of 34 million this year.

STIKO also updated its general recommendation for booster shots and now advises at-risk groups including those aged 70 and over as well as health workers to get a second booster, or a fourth shot overall, against COVID-19 with an mRNA vaccine.

The recommendation comes amid surging coronavirus infections in the country of 83 million. Its vaccination rate lags most western European countries.

The Robert-Koch-Institute for infectious diseases reported a record of 236,120 new cases on Thursday. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach has warned the numbers could exceed 400,000 by mid-February.

"We have data from Israel that shows a fourth dose significantly improves protection from a severe case of illness," STIKO chief Thomas Mertens told media group Funke in an interview published on Thursday.

Story continues

Some countries have already started offering additional booster doses, but a recent study from Israel showed that while a fourth dose of an mRNA vaccine boosted antibodies, the level was not high enough to prevent infection with the Omicron coronavirus variant.

STIKO in November recommended a third shot for all adults and last month updated its advice to include everyone older than 12. For ages five to 12, the panel still only recommends COVID vaccination for children with pre-existing conditions.

(Reporting by Kirsti Knolle Editing by Jason Neely and Mark Potter)
Chapter 4 The Bomb

Rose, Nick said firmly. There is no time for arguments. I just perceived a change in Comet 195Fs trajectory. Over the years I had thought, if the comet were indeed heading to Earth, scientists would have figured it out long before it posed an immediate threat. But I didnt know there is remote control.

Rose gasped. You mean, the comet is coming at us, now?

Not yet. Itll take a while for it to finish the turn. We have some time, but not much. There is a toolbox in the closet next to the door. I believe you can find an axe inside.

Rose left the counter and walked to the closet. It wont work! she heard Eve shouting behind but ignored her. Nick was right. It took her no effort to find the axe and bring it back.

Now what? she asked, suddenly realizing what he was asking her to do.

Crack the counter, said Nick, so that it can no longer send signals to the comet.

You stupid humans! Eve cried. You have no idea what you are facing at!

Do it, Rose. Dont listen to her.

Rose knew that was the right thing to do. But, does that mean Ill have to kill you?

She thought she had lost him. She had missed him terribly in the first year after he left, but slowly the wound began healing. Time dilutes everything. It blanches colors from old photos, numbs our senses, persistently convinces us that nothing in the past is unforgettable. Now all of a sudden she had him back. Brain copy or not, he was the Nick who had shared her success and happiness during the good days, and made the bad ones more tolerable.

I cant do it. She looked away.

You cant kill someone whos already dead, Rose. Would you rather die with the rest of the world just to have me live happily ever after inside a container?

Rose raised the axe and swung it down at the counter. Nothing happened, except that her arms were shaking with sours. The counter remained an impeccable gem.

We call it Mauras Gate, Eve said, her voice carrying a type of indifference usually found on people who talk about dreaded thingsthings that they wish to stay away from by being verbally distant.

At the time it happened, I was out for mining in another system, with a total of twenty-three ships from five countries. When we came back four months later, our world had been turned into hell 

As Eve said the words, her large blue eyes widened, like a mirror reflecting a horrible scene taking place in front of it. Sky disappeared. A thick orange mist filled everywhere, blocking your vision and muffling your voice. Purple lighting slithered inside the mist. If you got hit, your skin would start bubbling. Your eyeballs burst. The unbearable pain would turn you into a zombie. You attacked one another for no reasons, or hurtle your car on the street until it crashed into something 

What caused this to happen? Rose asked. She had to interrupt because she could no longer stand the description.

Gravity is essentially curved spacetime around large masses. Just like the rupture of geological faults can cause earthquakes, space can be torn by interactions among two or more enormous celestial groups. We call it a gate because it appears as a thin layer. Terrible things will happen when a planet travels from one side of the plane to the other.

With the sadness on her face, she now looked more like a human than a robot. We didnt know this when it occurred. By the time we arrived home, the mist had largely receded. I found my fiance on the street, beating an old lady with another guy. I tried to stop him before all of us got hit by a truck 

So you think the same thing may happen to us? Nick asked.

Ten years from now, your planet, the whole solar system, will go through a similar gate. That was what we figured out after half of us had decided to settle here. The other half had left for Mollus 17b. So we created the anti-gravity bacteria. This was one of the few techniques we had in hand. And you know why this thing looks like a bar counter? It used to be a bar counter on one of our ships. I was chosen for the brain copy since I was dying from the earlier accident.

Cant we hide underground to avoid the mist? Nick asked the question Rose also had in her mind.

Some of you may survive the mist, but all the plants and animals are going to be killed. Oceans and rivers will be filled with dead bodies. Trees no longer produce oxygen. Is this how you wish to end your life?

Nick exchanged looks with Rose before he said to Eve, No matter what, we dont want to give up yet. We may or may not find a solution by that time, but I can guarantee Im representing most of my fellows.

After a moments muse, Eve said, I cant shut the program at this stage, but there is a way for you to destroy it.

A blue line emerged on the counters surface next to where Nick was standing. Beneath the line a cubic box with sophisticated substructures was highlighted amid the pink material.

Thats the battery, which can be charged through the interface marked by the line. The only brittle spot on the surface. After Eve had said the words, she turned around and began walking away.

Thank you, Eve! Nick said to her back.

A sour pain grabbed Roses chest. Nick, I know you love her, dont you? she said loudly.

Eve came to a stop but didnt look back. Love is not about learning each others secrets, or sticking together every living day. You think I didnt know that?

With that said, her image disappeared.

Rose, be quick! Nick urged.

Forcing herself not to look at him, Rose raised the axe and hewed at the blue line. This time a notable crack occurred, and darkness was spreading out. She repeated it, more darkness. With every cut she felt as if she were chopping his flesh. After a while, she took a break, seemingly catching her breath, but was in fact trying to delay the inevitable.

Rose, she heard him calling her gently. Remember the first time we went out to dinner? You were wearing a blue-printed dress, werent you?

She turned to look at his image, half fading, and he was looking back. For a short moment, she no longer remembered the surroundings, or the catastrophe that loomed ahead. She was back to the twenty-six-year-old girl, sitting at an Italian restaurant and having a seemingly ordinary dinner that had determined her life for the next twenty years 

Yes, she murmured. Then she bit her lips, raised the axe, and made a hard hit. The entire counter flashed for a few times before it went completely lightless.

She dropped the axe and collapsed to the ground.

* * *

Devin, Kenton wants to speak to you.

Inside the bridge of Rosetta, Devin was sitting in front of the navigation panel, his hands pushing on two levers. Having flown away from the comet and turned around, the ship was now accelerating toward it.

Crash anticipated in four minutes! A mechanical voice blared inside the room. Please change your course!

That was why a person had to remain here. Devin didnt need to navigate the ship. He had simply locked the ships destination to the landers current position. However, without someone manually pushing the levers, the ships Collision Avoidance System would have overturned the preset destination and improvised a different course.

I dont want to talk to him, he said to the intercom.

Whoever wasnt physically here wouldnt be able to grasp the situation. He had no time left for explanations. And for the time being, Devin didnt feel like talking to anybody. Not even to Tracy. What would he say to her? That Im sorry? How pale the word sorry is, when you know what the other person is supposed to take!

The warning signal reoccurred over and over, and the levers trembled in his hands. The image of the comet quickly grew in his view and filled the front window. Now he could even discern the lander on the surface. To protect Earth from a lethal bomb, he himself had become a bomb 

Devin! Stop it and come back! he heard Connor and Matt shouting in the speaker.

What?

We think the comet has ceased turning!

Devin checked a monitor on his right. The comet did seem to fly in a straight line now. If it remained this way, it would bypass Earth at a close distance but wouldnt crash onto it. He then looked through the front window. The several exhaust holes were no longer spouting gases.

It didnt make sense, but he had no time to dwell on that. He reversed the acceleration and pulled on a different lever. The image in front of him changed rapidly as the ship slowed down and veered in an upward direction. Up, up! He prayed. He was never trained as a pilot. He held the levers with all his strength and closed his eyes.

Somebody must have helped him. He remembered the earlier conversations. Who were those people? What happened to them? Whether he survived or not, he knew he probably would never find out.

Chapter 5 The Interview

When Rose arrived at her company on Monday afternoon, she was uncertain of what to expect. Today could have been marked as the third post-apocalyptic day in the modern human history. Were coworkers celebrating that they could still see one another? Friends and relatives making long-distance calls and speculations of all the what-ifs? In fact, would anyone even come to work besides her?

To her surprise, nobody acted differently. It was just like a typical business day. More specifically, a typical Monday filled with aversions of a full weeks work ahead, as well as fatigues left by a convivial weekend.

Upon entering her office, the secretary told her that Mr. Perez had called during lunch time.

Ill call him back. She headed to her room and heard footsteps catching up from behind. Needless to say, it was Leo.

Rose, youve got to hear about this movie! And Im sure youll like it. It has space travel in it.

She paused at the door, turned, and put a hand on the doorknob.

A team of miners arrive at a barren planet. After theyve been digging for a day, they suddenly fall into a giant underground facility that has a zoo, a few real-estate agencies, and an interstellar strip club

Rose slammed the door in his face.

She sat down at her desk and turned on the TV. A news channel was conducting a remote interview. The speaker was a man probably in his late fifties, with stiff gray hair, dark eyes carrying an air of unassailable authority, and the name Kenton Clifton written below his face.

Mr. Clifton, a woman said rapidly in the background. Over the weekend we have received thousands of reports from professional and amateur organizations, as well as individuals, claiming that they had observed unusual activity with Comet 195F. Is there a scientific explanation for this phenomenon?

First, we admit that over a short period of time, Comet 195F had deviated from its presumed trajectory. It was possibly due to some unknown force that had transiently appeared in the nearby space. But other than that, its an ordinary and almost mundane object. You can find all the test results on our

That sounds scary! the woman interrupted. What kind of force was it?

We dont know the answer, but its not as disconcerting as it sounds. Remember, the comet nucleus is tiny. Similar forces would not have generated any measurable effect on Earth or even on our moon.

Hmm  Could it have been a spontaneously-created small black hole, as some people have suggested?

Kenton shrugged.

How are the three astronomers who have landed on the comet? Did they find anything unusual?

They came home Saturday evening, all in good conditions. In fact, only two landed on the comet. When the deviation occurred, the two tried to identify the cause but nothing unusual popped up.

There are also hypotheses saying that the comet has been in someones control.

Controlled? Kenton chuckled. By whom? People have wild imaginations.

Rose turned off the TV and sat back in her chair. Liar! She called in her head, but she probably wouldve said the same thing if she were in his position.

She grabbed the phone from her table and dialed Perezs number. Im sorry, Dave. There was a personal issue I had to deal with over the weekend.

And it wasnt over yet, she reflected. The Rosetta project had ended, but soon she would have to start contacting those guys about the so-called Mauras Gate, and she didnt look forward to it. How were they going to react? This time she would not be welcomed as a generous donor.

Whatever it was, he said, I hope it went well.

That was why she liked him. He never pressed her for things she didnt want to talk about.

How about this weekend? he asked. Would you like to deal with another personal issue?

Only if its pleasant. And she was sure it would be, given what had just happened.

Where do you want to go?

Your boat.

Out to the ocean?

Rose revolved her chair to face the glass wall behind her. The autumn sky was a refreshing blue, but she thought she could see Comet 195F traveling in the dark space toward the sun, with its sparkling long tail dragged behind. A few months later, it would turn around the sun and head off to the periphery of the solar system, back to a vapid stone, back to its lonely journey, flying, in a cold abyss long after Rose and the others died. But prior to that, there would be a moment of glory, a moment of splendor, though not as bright or eternal as a star, still memorable enough for the thousands of years that were yet to come.

Out to the deep, deep ocean.


EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness said the decision to halt Brexit checks on goods entering Northern Ireland is a breach of international law.

The status of Brexit checks at Northern Ireland ports remained unclear on Thursday morning after DUP Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots issued a unilateral direction on Wednesday evening instructing his officials to stop the agri-food checks at midnight.

Ms McGuinness, the commissioner in charge of financial services, said on Thursday: This is extremely unhelpful to have this news at this time of a new year, when all efforts are being made on our side.

Were working tirelessly to find solutions with the United Kingdom to specific problems and indeed have put forward very specific details.

She said there will be a call between UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and European Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic later on Thursday.

This announcement has created uncertainty and unpredictability and certainly no stability, so Im not sure what the purpose of this move is, Ms McGuinness said.

Its an absolute breach of international law, she told RTE radio.

Our clear position is that Northern Ireland is in a very unique and positive situation, part obviously of the UK but in the single market of the European Union.

She said checks on goods are needed to protect the single market and avoid a hard border, adding: The news of this stopping of inspections  if that is actually what happens  is really, really unhelpful in us finding a way forward because business has said there are problems with how the protocol operates.

We have proposed solutions and we would like to think that we could work through these solutions with our UK counterparts and put an end to this uncertainty, instability, this unpredictability which is so bad for everyone.

We have reminded our UK counterparts from the very outset when they resigned, if you like, or pulled away from implementing the agreement, that they actually have proposed and signed up to that. They were breaching international law and that is a major problem because we need to be able to trust each other.

And we were hoping  and I hope it will be the case  that, with a new counterpart on the UK side, we have that trust in each other and can find solutions.

But clearly when there is action, which overnight and this morning has created confusion, it is very hard to know what the purpose of this is because it doesnt help the businesses in Northern Ireland.

It doesnt help us trying to protect both the Good Friday Agreement and the single market.

Lorries were still being received at a Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) checking facility in Belfast Port earlier on Thursday morning.

Several vehicles entered the facility after the ferry arrived from Cairnryan in Scotland at 6am.

A staff member declined to confirm to the PA news agency whether the agri-food checks required under the Northern Ireland Protocol were continuing.
Amazon could become the first company to top 100billion of revenue in a single quarter when it posts results tonight.

Analysts expect the US tech giant to report sales of 103billion for the final months of 2021  up from 93billion in the same period a year earlier.

There is no guarantee Amazon will hit these lofty heights. But rival tech firms Apple and Google owner Alphabet have beaten Wall Street expectations in recent days.

Record revenues: Amazon founder Jeff Bezos (pictured with girlfriend Lauren Sanchez) quit as chief executive last year

Apple last week reported the biggest quarterly profit in corporate history  of 26billion. Although Amazon's revenues outstrip those of Apple, it is far less profitable.

Amazon shares have fallen 12 per cent so far this year amid concerns about the outlook for tech stocks following a meteoric rise during the Covid crisis.

Investors will be looking for guidance on potential future earnings as life returns to normal following the pandemic and customers are no longer reliant on online shopping for all their needs.

The update is seen as a big test for Andy Jassy, who succeeded Amazon founder Jeff Bezos as chief executive last year.

The results come as Amazon launches another hiring spree, saying it will create 1,500 apprenticeships in the UK this year.

It took on 25,000 staff last year in Britain, and now has more than 70,000 here.

That continued the Seattle firm's expansion in the UK  it also opened 17 shops here last year, including its Amazon Fresh food stores and 4-Star retail shops.

And it has begun recruiting for the apprenticeships, which will span its engineering, health, safety and environmental departments. The programme will also include more than 200 degree-level courses.

Amazon pays at least 10 an hour, raising fears that its jobs drive will leave rivals struggling to recruit.

Tesco, which pays staff a minimum of 9.55 an hour, has more than 3,000 roles to fill.

Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng welcomed the job boost, saying it showed the economy was booming.

He said: 'Amazon's announcement is testament to the strength of the British economy, with GDP back at pre-pandemic levels, employee numbers at record highs and unemployment falling.'
Ukraine has never been hiding from negotiations to resolve the armed conflict and is ready to meet with Russia in any format.

"Ukraine is ready to meet with Russia in any format of negotiations to find a diplomatic solution to the 8-year-old armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine. We have never been hiding from the talks," Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba said at a briefing for foreign journalists on February 2, Ukrinform reports.

On the contrary, Kuleba noted, Kyiv has been making painstaking efforts over the years in the Normandy format, along with Germany and France as mediators, to seek a diplomatic solution.

The minister also welcomed the recent resumption of the Normandy format in Paris.

"I hope that Russia will finally show a constructive desire to pursue a diplomatic path and organize a new meeting of the Normandy format leaders," he said.

Earlier, Head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak noted that Ukraine was ready for 24/7 talks to end the war, return its territories, and de-escalate the situation near the borders.

ol
TORONTO, Feb. 02, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- O2Gold Inc. (O2Gold or the Company) (TSXV: OTGO) announces today the resignations from its board of directors of Fayyaz Alimohamed and Raziel Zisman, effective immediately. The board and management of the Company express their gratitude to Messrs. Alimohamed and Zisman for their efforts and extensive contributions and wish them well in their future endeavours.



About O2Gold

O2Gold is a mineral exploration company with activities in Colombia. The Companys contiguous 30,000-ha land package includes several brownfields and largely under-explored greenfields.

Jaime Lalinde, President and CEO

Phone: (57) 312 350 5864

Email: jlalinde@fmresources.ca

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) HAS REVIEWED OR ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Magazine publisher Future is bracing for a second investor rebellion today over fat cat pay.

The publisher behind The Week and Country Life faces an annual meeting revolt over a 95million bonus package, which offers up to 40million to chief executive Zillah Byng-Thorne, one of Britains best-paid chief executives.

At last years meeting a third of Future shareholders voted against the scheme.

Pay revolt: Future boss Zillah Byng-Thorne (pictured) - already one of Britains best-paid chief executives - is in line for a 40m bonus

But investor advisory firm Glass Lewis said the company did not sufficiently respond to the dissent and it is advising shareholders to vote against the pay policy again.

The scheme could give Byng-Thorne about 40million of shares in three stages, with the first, worth more than 13million, potentially vesting next year.

Byng-Thorne became chief executive in 2014 and has since been paid more than 27million. Under her, shares are up nearly 3,000 per cent in five years.

Her salary rose by a fifth last year to 575,000, and her total pay packet could reach 3.3million with bonuses.

Future said its executive pay is fair and competitive, and supports the long-term success of the business.
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SEATTLE  A small apartment building at 12007 15th Ave. N.E. sold for nearly $4.8 million, according to King County records.

The sellers were local investors who had owned the property for decades.





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https://sputniknews.com/20220203/russia-to-announce-retaliatory-measures-against-german-media-over-rt-de-later-on-thursday-1092712416.html

Russia to Announce Retaliatory Measures Against German Media Over RT DE Later on Thursday

Russia to Announce Retaliatory Measures Against German Media Over RT DE Later on Thursday

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia will announce retaliatory measures against German media later in the day due to the RT DE broadcast ban, Russian Foreign Ministry... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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"Then, according to the Russian retaliatory measures, which will be announced today, it will be doubly unforgivable for Ms. Ribeiro to speak out. Firstly, they are retaliatory. Secondly, having kept silent once, who will believe you," Zakharova said on Telegram.Zakharova noted that the OSCE was symptomatically silent about the decision of Germany to ban the broadcasting of RT DE. OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Teresa Ribeiro did not see "anything" in this that could be of interest, Zakharova said.On 1 February, a German media regulator banned the broadcasting of RT DE in Germany, stating that the broadcast organizers did not have the necessary permission. RT said that RT DE Productions would appeal the decision of the German regulator in court. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced that they were starting to implement retaliatory measures against German media accredited in Russia, as well as Internet intermediaries who arbitrarily and unreasonably deleted the channel's accounts from their platforms.

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The mining industry is under mounting pressure to clean up its act after a toxic culture of sexual assault, racism and bullying was uncovered at Rio Tinto.

A damning report this week found that 21 women working for the Anglo-Australian commodities giant have reported rape, attempted rape or sexual assault in the past five years.

'Bullying is systemic. Sexual harassment and everyday sexism occur at unacceptable rates. Racism is common,' the report concluded.

Toxic culture: A damning report this week found that 21 women working for Rio Tinto have reported rape, attempted rape or sexual assault in the past five years

Rio boss Jakob Stausholm said the findings were 'deeply disturbing'. But the report also put a spotlight on an industry long accused of tolerating inappropriate behaviour, including heavy drinking and abuse.

Many problems centre on remote Fly-In, Fly-Out mining camps in the iron ore heartlands in Western Australia.

Investors and others are calling for action. The Health Employees Superannuation Trust Australia pension fund said it would 'seek to engage with senior management and boards on how they are overseeing company culture' to ensure high standards.

Miners, who struggled to recruit women, even as they grapple with a labour shortage, have been trying for years to change a 'boys club' culture. Top global miner BHP has an 'ambitious, aspirational goal' of achieving gender balance globally by 2025.

Investors and industry players gave Rio credit for publishing the findings from an external review launched last March but said others needed to act as well.

'This is an industry problem. It's a society problem. It's no good them solving the problem on their side and it continues elsewhere,' said Greg Busson, the Mining and Energy Union's Western Australia state secretary.

Rio launched the review in March last year, not long after Stausholm took over the top job in the wake of a backlash over the company's destruction of the 46,000-year-old Juukan Gorge rock shelters to expand an iron ore mine.

Activist investor group Market Forces said Juukan Gorge highlighted a culture of arrogance and other deep seated issues at Rio Tinto.

'The findings demonstrate the need for strong investor scrutiny of Rio Tinto and its governance,' said Will van de Pol, asset management campaigner at Market Forces. 'There is a need to improve culturally at Rio and this is yet another moment that needs to catalyse further change.'

Katie Mehnert of Ally Energy, a networking group connecting workers with firms, said: 'The human element can't be ignored. You can have the best assets on the planet, but if your culture is trash, who will want to work for you?'
EASING of Covid restrictions means the Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show is set to return on Sunday, August 14 next at the Butterfield Estate in Blueball, outside Tullamore

Speaking at the recent Tullamore Show AGM, as reported in the Tribune following the event last month, Chairperson Joe Molloy said he was very optimistic the show would return in 2022.

However given the recent changes in Covid regulations plans are fully underway to ensure the show goes ahead as near to normal as possible this August. It has been a tough two years for us, and the uncertainty has certainly brought its challenges,' the event;'s PRO, Stephen Kelly confirmed this week.

He added: We are very grateful to our main sponsor FBD who have supported us throughout this pandemic, and we look forward to working with them for this coming show and many more. We would like to acknowledge the support from all our stakeholders both national and international and we also look forward to working with them this year.

With the recent announcement of lifting the restrictions, our plans are well underway with the continuous help of our hardworking committee and volunteers, we look forward to working together to once again stage Ireland's premier show.

This August will see the very best of Irish livestock return to the showing ring and we anticipate very keen competition for a whooping prize fund, along with a range of highly sought-after gold medals and cups to be won on show day.

Trade Stand applications for Irelands Premier Show are now open online so dont miss this opportunity to book your space, for further information visit www.tullamoreshow.com

The show chairman thanked the public for their kindness and messages of goodwill over the last two years.

He also stated that the organising committee will continue to monitor the Covid-19 situation closely while ensuring that health and safety guidelines are our main priority.

For general enquiries please contact the Show Office on 057 93 52141 or info@tullamoreshow.com
A source revealed, "Aditya Roy Kapur has flown down to Sri Lanka to shoot some of the crucial sequences of 'The Night Manager' remake. The actor has a tight schedule and will pull off some exciting scenes and sequences in the beautiful landscape of Sri Lanka."

"Aditya is essaying an extremely nuanced and layered character in the show which demands a continuous prep process. Parallelly, the committed actor is also working on his rigorous fitness regime, to portray the physicality required for the part," the source added.

'The Night Manager' is an espionage thriller that has a tense cat and mouse chase between a covert agent and a secret arms dealer. The 2016 series features Tom Hiddleston in the lead role. In the remake, Aditya will essay the titular character.

The original British series became a massive hit across the globe and earned several awards at the 74th Golden Globe Awards.

Meanwhile, along with the show, Aditya has 'Om- The Battle Within' and Tamil hit film 'Thadam' remake in the pipeline this year. (ANI)
New Delhi: Apple recently began handing out an iOS 15.4 beta software update for iPhone developers and testers, which included a pregnant guy emoji among other new features. The corporation decided to integrate the emoji when the Unicode Consortium, a non-profit organisation that oversees how certain emojis display online, exposed them. Every year, the industry group releases new emojis, which are included in the newest software updates for Android and iOS handsets. The inclusion of the pregnant guy emoji appears to have sparked debate, with Republican leaders and right-wing critics implying that it is unnatural.

As part of the Unicode 14.0 database, Unicode released 37 new emoji codes in September 2021. "Melting face," for example, was among the emojis included ""biting lip," "troll," "beans," "pouring fluids," "pregnant guy," and "pregnant person" are all terms used to describe someone who is pregnant. To help with attempts to keep "gender options consistent," the pregnant man and gender-neutral pregnant emojis were added "Emojipedia is an emoji reference and tracking website for all emojis. "The new pregnancy possibilities may be employed for representation by trans guys, non-binary folks, or women with short hair," the website says, quoting a senior Emoji Lexicographer Jane Solomon. Pregnancy can happen to people of any gender. Emojis have been created to symbolise this.

Following the announcement, Sean Spicer, Donald Trump's former White House Press Secretary and current anchor of the right-wing Newsmax network, mocked Apple's choice. "I met the science requirement in college by choosing geology - now I realise what I missed  those biology classes would have helped explain the new pregnant guy emoji," he stated in a tweet.

"The same week the Left is screaming to cancel @JoeRogan for "misinformation," wrote another Republican leader, Lauren Boebert "@Apple has developed a pregnant guy emoji. I'm sorry, but I'm unable to do so "According to Business Insider.

Notably, prominent TV host Tucker Carlson, who is known for his Republican backing, dedicated a programme on broadcast to the pregnant guy emoji. "In the real world, men can very quickly get pregnant if they don't take adequate care," he jokingly tweeted about the discovery. Guys, be on the lookout. It's possible that it will happen to you."

Live TV
London markets were buoyed yesterday after earnings from Google parent Alphabet smashed expectations on Wall Street.

As worries about technology stocks eased, the FTSE 100 index and the FTSE 250 were on the up.

The rally came after Alphabet posted profits of 15.2billion for the three months to the end of December, up from 11.2billion a year ago and ahead of expectations.

Google's parent company Alphabet posted profits of 15.2bn for the three months to the end of December, up from 11.2bn a year ago and ahead of expectations

Revenues rose 32 per cent to 55.5billion. Despite jitters about the growth potential of tech giants, Alphabet said advertising revenues grew as the pandemic fuelled demand for digital ads on its websites.

Ad revenues jumped to 45.1billion in the quarter from 34billion a year ago. Boss Sundar Pichai said it enjoyed record quarterly sales for its Pixel mobile phones, though they are still far behind the dominance of rival Apples iPhones.

The firm also announced a stock split in a bid to make its shares cheaper. Alphabet shares were 8 per cent higher on Wall Street last night.

Stock Watch - AFC Energy AFC Energy rose after inking a contract to provide fuel cells for electric race cars. The firm, which develops technology to generate power from clean hydrogen, will provide its fuel cells to Extreme-E, an off-road racing series using all-electric SUVs. Its technology will be rented to generate power for Extreme-Es 2022 season, which will comprise five races across the world, and include motorsport giants such as McLaren Racing. Shares rose 13.7 per cent, or 4.65p, to 38.7p.

AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould said: The technology sector started 2022 with some of the biggest question marks over it since the dotcom crash more than two decades ago.

However, the largest and highest quality US tech names continue to deliver the answers the market wants.

The gains came ahead of results from Facebook owner Meta last night and Amazon tonight.

However, there was no respite for Paypal, which sank 25 per cent in New York as it joined the ranks of pandemic boom-to-bust stocks following disappointing results.

Some of Londons own tech firms received a boost, with online grocery group Ocado topping the blue-chip risers. It gained 5.7 per cent, or 81.5p, to 1512.5p after analysts at Credit Suisse double-upgraded the stock to outperform from underperform and hiked their target price to 1750p from 1500p.

The investment bank said that the current share price level, which is 45 per cent lower than it was 12 months ago, represented a buying opportunity.

The FTSE 100 was up 0.63 per cent, or 47.22 points, at 7583 while the FTSE 250 jumped 0.37 per cent, or 81.46 points, to 22249.40.

Pharma giant Glaxosmithkline inched up 0.4 per cent, or 5.8p, to 1650p after its HIV drugs unit Viiv Healthcare reached a 921million legal settlement with US rival Gilead in a long-running patent row.

Under the agreement, Gilead will also pay a 3 per cent royalty on sales of an HIV drug to Viiv until 2027.

Blue-chip property group British Land climbed 0.4 per cent, or 2p, to 547.4p after snapping up a 12.5-acre warehouse site in north London for 157million.

The plot contains three warehouses comprising 245,000 square feet which are already occupied by Amazon, online retailer Euro Car Parts and the North London Waste Authority, generating around 3.6million per year.

A senior adviser at Virgin Money, Mark Thundercliffe, pocketed around 156,186 after offloading 82,203 shares for around 190p each on Tuesday, about equal to the companys closing price that day.

Virgin Money shares rose 3 per cent, or 5.7p, to 195.9p after it also received a target price hike from Barclays.

Water company Severn Trent remained on track to invest over 500million to help clean up the countrys rivers and reiterated its full-year guidance.

The investment plans come after it was fined 1.5million by the Environment Agency in December for illegally discharging sewage into British waterways. The shares dipped 1 per cent, or 30p, to 2933p.

Meanwhile, mid-cap oiler Harbour Energy tanked 5.5 per cent, or 20.2p, to 345.2p as the boss of its European business, Phil Kirk, headed for the exit.
Google has two lost prominent members of its Ethical AI research group, reports Bloomberg . On Wednesday, researcher Alex Hanna and software engineer Dylan Baker left the company to join Timnit Gebrus Distributed AI Research Institute . Gebru founded the nonprofit in December following her controversial exit from the tech giant in 2020 .

Today's my last day at Google. Starting tomorrow I'm joining @timnitGebru at @DAIRInstitute as Director of Research.



On my way out, here's some thoughts on the tech company as a racialized organization and the power of complaint. https://t.co/PQhAVo2r7M  Alex Hanna (@alexhanna) February 2, 2022

Up until the end of that year, Gebru was one of the co-leads of Googles Ethical AI research group. After publishing a paper the company said didnt meet its bar for publication, Gebru claims Google fired her. The company, however, has maintained she resigned. In February 2021, several employees left the unit in protest of Googles handling of the situation. Later that same month, the company fired Margaret Mitchell , the other co-lead of the Ethical AI research group. Hanna and Baker told Bloomberg the dismissals weighed heavily on them, and that they wanted to work with Gebru again.

I am quitting because Im tired, Hanna wrote on Medium after announcing her departure from the company. The post is in many ways a call to action. In a word, tech has a whiteness problem. Google is not just a tech organization. Google is a white tech organization, Hanna writes. More specifically, tech organizations are committed to defending whiteness through the interrelated practices, processes, actions and meanings, the techniques of reproducing the organization. In this case, that means defending their policies of recruitment, hierarchization, and monetization.

Along with @alexhanna, I'll also be leaving Google to join @timnitGebru at @DAIRInstitute as an engineer and researcher, starting at the end of the month!



I wrote a little bit about my experiences and observations after four years at Google:https://t.co/XjucvdePAj  dylan (@dylnbkr) February 2, 2022

The post also touches on the paper at the center of Gebrus dismissal from the company. Hanna says the claim Jeff Dean, the head of Googles AI division, made about the robustness of the companys publishing process was laughable. She points to analysis the group Google Walkout for Real Change published in 2020. Google management remained silent when an article on the Google Walkout page pointed out that there were many counterexamples, like how nearly half of papers in the system were approved within a day or less of the deadline, Hanna said.

Hanna and Baker told Bloomberg they also believe Google has become less willing to listen to employees in recent years. They specifically pointed to the companys pursuit of potential contracts from the Pentagon over the past and the very public objections of its workers.

We appreciate Alex and Dylans contributions  our research on responsible AI is incredibly important, and were continuing to expand our work in this area in keeping with our AI Principles," A Google spokesperson told Engadget. "Were also committed to building a company where people of different views, backgrounds and experiences can do their best work and show up for one another.
Often, companies will hype up their latest ventures as their most ambitious or innovative in the companys history. Sonos is no different in this regard. The companys VP of Global Marketing and Communications, Pete Pedersen, is looking for an ad agency to help them with one of the companys most ambitious projects.

Sonos is looking for an ad agency for one of its most ambitious projects

We all know Sonos as the company that offers a variety of high-end speakers. The American company was founded back in 2002, and its been a popular brand over the past two decades. One department it excels in is with its network of connected speakers that can all receive the same audio signal. Sonos has become a household name, and the company is looking to continue that.

Pedersen put up a job post on LinkedIn saying that the company is looking for an advertising agency for a new product. The post dubs this product as one of the most ambitious projects in the companys history.

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While this sounds exciting, theres not much information on the product to go on. In the post, Pedersen said that thats all that he can say on the matter.

If an advertising firm is interested, they need only to send an email to Sonos with a playlist that showcases the firms culture and the agencys DEI philosophy. Also, the email must include 2 case studies including two the following: launching a new brand, creating a new category for a brand, and targeting a new audience.

Its hard to tell what this product could be.

Right now, its anyones guess what this new product will be. We can predict that the new product will center around audio. Rumors have been circulating about the company launching its first pair of wireless headphones.

Weve been speculating about that for the past couple of years, but nothing has come up about it. For all we know, headphones could be that ambitious project that Sonos is talking about.

If the company does decide to launch a new pair of headphones, it would line up with the news at the company is working on a new Bluetooth codec. Its called Bluetooth LC3, and it promises great audio quality with very little power consumption.

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Since Sonos is currently looking for an advertising agency, it shouldnt be too long before we see what the product is. It could either be a pair of headphones, earbuds, or even a smart speaker. On the outside (and this is a big stretch), the company could even bring some sort of smartphone device.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

A US intelligence agency said Wednesday that its newest spy satellite successfully launched into orbit atop a reusable SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

The rocket took off at 12:27 pm local time (2027 GMT) from the Vandenberg Air Force base in California, the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), which is in charge of the US Space Force, said in a statement.

After releasing the satellite, dubbed NROL-87, into orbit, the Falcon 9 rocket then landed back at the base, the agency said.

"NROL-87 is designed, built, and operated by the NRO to support its overhead reconnaissance mission," the statement said.

The NRO gave few other details about the satellite but said it will "provide a wide-range of timely intelligence information."

The NRO, a division of the US Defense Department, operates a large network of surveillance satellites, and is headquartered near Washington, in northern Virginia.

NROL-87, the first satellite launched by the NRO in 2022, is the third time the agency has used a Falcon 9 rocket.

The NRO has launched 16 other satellites over the past two years.

Explore further SpaceX launches 52 Starlink satellites from California base

 2022 AFP
Today's headlines: the US approves cash transfers to Afghanistan; Pakistan says it will not introduce a presidential system; Cambodia invites a non-political representative from Myanmar to the Asean summit; the Philippines opens up to foreign investment; Orban's Hungary strengthens ties with Russia.

SYRIA

US special forces conducted an anti-terrorism raid in northwest Syria. Experts say the operation was similar to the one that killed Islamic State chief al-Baghdadi in 2019. There is no clear information yet on any civilian casualties in the operation. Idlib province is partly controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group that was part of al-Qaeda.

AFGHANISTAN

The US Treasury Department has allowed international banks to transfer funds to Afghanistan for humanitarian purposes. Cooperation agencies can also pay the salaries of Afghan teachers and health personnel, so transactions involving the Taliban are also permitted. All such transactions will not be considered violations of sanctions.

PAKISTAN

Pakistani Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed denied the government's desire to introduce a presidential system or a state of emergency following the increase in attacks by the Pakistani Taliban (TTP). When journalists pointed out that the TTP had carried out 40 attacks across the country this year, Ahmed replied that two terrorists had been neutralised in Islamabad recently.

CHINA

Chinese President Xi Jinping claims the Winter Olympics starting tomorrow will be "safe and splendid", amid criticism from the head of the International Olympic Committee of the diplomatic boycott by some countries over human rights issues in China. Yesterday, 55 new cases of Covid-19 were detected in Beijing, the highest daily count so far.

CAMBODIA - MYANMAR

The Cambodian foreign minister said that a non-political representative of Myanmar had been invited to the upcoming summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean). The members of the organisation have not yet reached an agreement regarding the participation of the Burmese military junta after last year's coup.

PHILIPPINES

The Philippine Congress has passed a bill allowing full foreign ownership of rail and telecommunications services, opening up one of the world's most hostile economies to foreign investment. The measure, to be ratified by President Rodrigo Duterte, updates an 85-year-old law which stipulated that foreign ownership could be up to a maximum of 40 per cent.

JAPAN

The International Monetary Fund deleted a sentence criticising Japan for its continued funding of carbon-intensive projects. The sentence was contained in the final statement of the review of Japan's economic policies, after the IMF included climate engagement among its monitoring activities.

RUSSIA

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the Kremlin to assess Russian security demands from NATO and the US. Putin reminded his colleague of the signing of long-term contracts (until 2036) to supply gas to Hungary from Russia's Gazprom. Orban said he was convinced he would win in the next elections and wanted to cooperate with Russia "for many years to come", and invited his Russian colleague to visit Hungary on a "peace mission".
The future of energy transition in Mena and the avenues for green hydrogen, whose annual GCC revenues could grow to $200 billion and support over one million jobs by 2050, will be discussed at the Middle East Energy (MEE) conference.

The Mena regions most reputable and comprehensive energy event returns to Dubai World Trade Centre from March 7 to 9 welcoming senior energy leaders, policymakers. An array of international hydrogen experts will convene at MEE to discuss the exciting prospects for the Mena region to emerge as a global clean hydrogen hub.

A study by Goldman Sachs revealed green hydrogen could meet 25% of global energy requirements in the next 30 years.

Cornelius Matthes, CEO of Dii Desert Energy, will open the green hydrogen discussion at the Global Energy & Utilities Forum (GEUF), one of three dedicated energy conferences taking place at the event, on March 7.

The forum will also host a panel of key figures in the regions rapidly emerging hydrogen market, including Stephan Gobert, Senior Vice President  Hydrogen AMEA, Engie; Michael Mair, VP Growth and Development (Europe, Middle East & Africa), Wood; Francois Dao, Vice President  Middle East & Africa, EDF Renewables; and Alicia Eastman, President, Inter Continental Energy.

The panellists will discuss topics including the Middle Easts potential to emerge as a global hub for green hydrogen and ammonia, how projects will be financed and the price of producing green hydrogen, the importance of implementing hydrogen strategies to support future green hydrogen projects, as well as the opportunities surrounding blue hydrogen.

Azzan Mohammed, Exhibition Director, Global Energy & Utilities Forum and Middle East Energy, said: As the role of green hydrogen in the energy transition has become a priority for governments and energy companies across the world, we have seen a shift to evaluating the advantages of developing the technology to reduce carbon emissions across utilities, transport and industrial sectors.

With the UAE government setting out plans to reach net-zero emission by 2050 while overseeing an AED600 billion ($163 billion) investment in renewable energy, the country is at the forefront of discussions regarding the energy transition.

Meanwhile, the Intersolar Middle East Conference, taking place within Middle East Energy, will run two sessions on the events opening day, focusing on vision, strategy and policymaking while also looking at the latest technology in producing, transporting, distributing, and using green hydrogen.

Informa, organisers of MEE, have confirmed over 500 global exhibitors will participate in the 47th edition of the energy showcase, with over 18,000 attendees and 500 delegates expected.

Within the five key product sectors - Smart Solutions, Renewable & Clean Energy, Critical & Backup Power, Transmission & Distribution, and Energy Consumption & Management - a range of brands including Lucy Electric, Cummins, Emirates Transformers, Ducab, Riyadh Cables Group and Bahra Cables Company will be showcasing solutions and technologies to accelerate the path to the energy transition.

As part of Informa's commitment to providing the highest hygiene and safety levels, the event will again take place under the protocols introduced via the companys Informa AllSecure health and safety mandate. The enhanced measures include 35 guidelines covering all aspects of cleaning and hygiene, social distancing measures, and the use of PPE, screening, and a track and trace in conjunction with local authorities.

MEE is held under the patronage of Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and hosted by the UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure. This years event sponsors include Perkins, Baudouin, Newage Stamford AVK, and Rieloo UPS.-- TradeArabia News Service
Vijayawada, Feb 3 : In a massive show of strength ahead of their indefinite strike from February 7, government employees and teachers from across Andhra Pradesh gathered in Vijayawada on Thursday, defying police ban and restrictions to press their demand for a higher pay revision.

It was one of the biggest gatherings seen in recent years as employees, teachers and pensioners came together for 'Chalo Vijayawada' called by 'PRC Sadhana Samiti', the joint action committee of all unions of employees and pensioners.

BRTS road in the city reverberated with slogans of awe want justice'. Holding flags of their respective unions and banners, the protestors took out a massive rally from AP NGO Bhavan to BRTS Road.

The protest was a roaring success as organisers claimed that one lakh people participated in it while three lakh more were stopped by the police in various parts of the state.

The police, which had denied permission for the protest in view of Covid-19 situation and set up checkposts, could do nothing to stop a wave of protestors flooding the key artery in the city. Defying all restrictions, employees, teachers, pensioners and even contract employees reached the venue.

Despite the checkposts, barricades and other measures taken by the police, protestors poured in from all directions. Many reached by cars, three-wheelers and even by two-wheelers to join what is described as the biggest demonstration by government employees in many years.

The protestors marched through the BRTS road. Some adopted novel methods to lodge their protest by singing or by even begging.

They demanded that the government take back the Government Order (GO) issued last month, fixing new pay scales as per 23 per cent pay revision. They argue that since they were receiving 27 per cent interim relief the GO has led to downward revision in their salaries.

The employees are demanding that the government make public Pay Revision Commission (PRC) report.

"Our demands are just. We are demanding the government to give us our rights," said an employee participating in the rally.

The employees criticised the 'adamant' attitude of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government. "We don't want your reverse PRC. Pay us salaries as per the old pay scales," said another employee.

Addressing the mammoth gathering, the leaders of PRC Sadhana Samiti made it clear that their protest will continue till the government accepts their demands.

"The government stopped buses and trains but it could not stop employees," said one of the leaders Bandi Srinivasa Rao.

The leaders said the employees would go ahead with the strike from February 7. They said the entire administration will come to a standstill and the government would be responsible for the inconvenience caused to the people.

They demanded Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to intervene and call them for talks to resolve the issue. "We are protesting in a peaceful manner. Still everything's not lost. We request the chief minister to intervene and accept our just demands," he said.

Despite police denying permission for the protest and the curbs imposed across the state, large number of employees, teachers and pensioners managed to reach here on a call given by called Raising slogans of 'we want justice' and The rally brought traffic to a halt in the busy areas.

Police had denied permission for 'Chalo Vijayawada' and detained several leaders across the state.

Citing the denial of permission for the protest program in view of Covid-19 pandemic situation, the police detained leaders of various unions of government employees and teachers in various districts.

The leaders were either placed under house arrest or summoned to police stations to serve notices, directing them not to leave for Vijayawada for the protest. They were being told that if they go ahead with the protest, action will be taken against them as per law.

Vijayawada Police Commissioner Kanti Rana Tata had said that there was no permission for 'Chalo Vijayawada'. He said as per the guidelines issued by the central and state governments, any program with a gathering of more than 200 should not be allowed. The commissioner said since over 5,000 employees are likely to participate in 'Chalo Vijayawada' permission was not given for the same.

Meanwhile, home minister M. Sucharita denied that employees were arrested or stopped. She said the issue can be solved only through talks.
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ROAMEO, a security and concierge robot, is destined for two Six Flags locations where it will patrol the parking lot during the day and the park after hours.
Northern Ireland has been plunged into fresh political chaos after First Minister Paul Givan announced his resignation in protest over post-Brexit border rules.

Mr Givan's decision to quit automatically removes Sinn Fein deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill from her job in the Executive because, under Stormont's powersharing rules, one cannot hold office without the other.

The bombshell resignation by the Lagan Valley MLA is part of the DUP's escalating protest strategy against the Northern Ireland Protocol.

It comes 24 hours after DUP Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots acted unilaterally to order a halt to agri-food checks required under the post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Civil servants have yet to implement the instruction and checks are currently still continuing.

Other Stormont ministers can remain in post but the resignation of Mr Givan means the Executive can no longer meet and is unable to take significant policy decisions.

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis labelled Mr Givan's decision to quit 'extremely disappointing' as he urged the DUP to reconsider the move.

Sinn Fein has called for an early election, warning 'we cannot stagger on in the months ahead without a functioning Executive'. Northern Ireland Assembly elections are scheduled to take place on May 5 this year.

The resignation raises the prospect of a total collapse of powersharing. It previously collapsed in January 2017 and was not restored until January 2020.

Northern Ireland has been plunged into fresh political chaos after First Minister Paul Givan announced his resignation in protest over post-Brexit border rules

Mr Givan's decision to quit automatically removes Sinn Fein deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill from her job in the Executive because, under Stormont's powersharing rules, one cannot hold office without the other

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis labelled Mr Givan's decision to quit 'extremely disappointing' as he urged the DUP to reconsider the move

The protocol was negotiated as part of the Brexit deal to avoid a hard border with Ireland, by effectively keeping Northern Ireland in the EU's single market for goods.

But unionists have been pressuring for it to be scrapped because of the trade barriers it has created on products crossing the Irish Sea from Great Britain.

The UK and EU remain locked in talks as they try to agree solutions to smooth the operation of the protocol but a breakthrough remains elusive.

The UK has repeatedly threatened to trigger Article 16 of the protocol to unilaterally tear up the border rules if the two sides cannot strike an agreement.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has repeatedly threatened to bring down the Stormont institutions in protest against the so-called Irish Sea border.

He had previously warned that the stalemate in the talks between Brussels and Britain could not go on forever.

Mr Givan said this afternoon that the protocol had undermined a cornerstone of powersharing in Northern Ireland  governance with the consent of both nationalists and unionists.

'Today marks the end of what has been the privilege of my lifetime  to serve as the First Minister of Northern Ireland,' Mr Givan said as he announced his resignation at a Belfast hotel.

'When I first entered the Assembly 12 years ago, I never expected to have the opportunity to lead the Government and serve the people of Northern Ireland as First Minister.'

Mr Givan continued: 'Our institutions are being tested once again. And the delicate balance created by the Belfast and St Andrews agreements has been impacted by the agreement made by the United Kingdom Government and the European Union which created the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The checks (Belfast Docks pictured today) are the main bone of contention in ongoing talks between the UK and the EU over the implementation of the post-Brexit agreement between the two

'The consent principle is a cornerstone of the Belfast Agreement and it is my earnest desire that all sections of the community will soon be able to give consent to the restoration of a fully functioning executive, through a resolution to the issues that have regrettably brought us to this point.'

There was emotion in Mr Givan's voice as he said: 'Most of all I want to thank my family, especially my wife Emma.

'It's often those that we are close to in our families that feel the pressure, even more so than those of us in frontline politics. It wouldn't have been possible without their support.'

Sir Jeffrey said that in September he set out clearly why the protocol needed to be rejected and replaced with arrangements that 'respected Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom'.

He said: 'At that time I indicated the steps that this party would take.

'I warned that, as leader of the DUP, I was not prepared to lend my hand to a protocol which so fundamentally undermines the Union and the economic integrity of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland's position in it.'

Sir Jeffrey said the moment to take 'tough decisions' had arrived, as he warned that the continuation of protocol talks for months or even years is 'bad for Northern Ireland'.

The DUP leader has said his party's ministers will remain in post in advance of the Stormont elections in May.

Sir Jeffrey said the protocol 'represents an existential threat to the Union and to the future of Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom' and the 'longer the protocol remains, the more it will harm the Union itself'.

Mr Lewis, the Northern Ireland Secretary, immediately urged the DUP to reconsider Mr Givan's resignation.

He said in a statement: 'The decision by the DUP to withdraw the First Minister from the Northern Ireland Executive is extremely disappointing.

'I urge them to reinstate the First Minister immediately to ensure the necessary delivery of public services for the citizens of Northern Ireland.

'The UK Government's priority is to see a strong functioning Northern Ireland Executive delivering a better, more prosperous, shared future for all the people of Northern Ireland.'

Mr Lewis warned that 'we must not return to a state of political deadlock and inertia'.

The protocol was negotiated as part of the Brexit deal to avoid a hard border with Ireland, by effectively keeping Northern Ireland in the EU's single market for goods. But unionists have been pressuring for it to be scrapped

He added: 'I recognise the impact the Northern Ireland Protocol is having on the ground. The UK Government has been clear for some time that the protocol has been causing serious problems, unbalancing the delicate and hard-won political stability in Northern Ireland.

'We remain fully committed to fixing the problems with the protocol and to protect the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement in all its dimensions. We will continue our intensive talks with the EU in order to resolve these.

'I will be speaking to the leaders of the five parties of the Northern Ireland Executive, and the Irish Government, to encourage a return to stable devolved government in Northern Ireland.

'I hope that Northern Ireland's political leaders will take the necessary steps to restore the stability in the devolved institutions that the people of Northern Ireland deserve.'

Irish Taoiseach, Micheal Martin, said he was 'deeply concerned' about the resignation of Mr Givan, describing it as a 'very damaging move'.

'I would urge the DUP to return to full engagement with all the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement and avoid any action that could damage peace and stability in Northern Ireland,' he said.
A new report posted late yesterday states that a federal judge has dismissed a proposed class-action lawsuit accusing Apple Inc of misleading consumers about how resistant its iPhones are to water exposure.

Apple's advertisements had made various claims about the iPhone's resistance to damage when submerged or otherwise exposed to water, including that some models could survive depths of 4 meters (13.1 feet) for 30 minutes.

The named plaintiffs, two from New York and one from South Carolina, claimed that Apple's "false and misleading" misrepresentations let the company charge twice as much for iPhones than the cost of "average smartphones."

U.S. District Judge Denise Cote in Manhattan said the plaintiffs plausibly alleged that Apple's ads could mislead consumers, but did not show their iPhones were damaged by "liquid contact" Apple promised they could withstand.

The judge also found no proof of fraud, citing a lack of evidence that Apple intended to overstate its water resistance claims, or that the plaintiffs relied on fraudulent marketing statements when buying their iPhones. See the full CTV report for more.
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Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan has announced his resignation.

The move is part of the DUP's escalating strategy against the Northern Ireland Protocol - part of the Brexit deal which was agreed by both sides and is designed to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland.

The Lagan Valley MLA said: "Today marks the end of what has been the privilege of my lifetime - to serve as the First Minister of Northern Ireland.

"When I first entered the Assembly 12 years ago, I never expected to have the opportunity to lead the government and serve the people of Northern Ireland as first minister.

"Holding this office is one that comes with a heavy responsibility and I have often felt the weight of this burden, to do what is right for all our people."

It is understood senior DUP figures met on Thursday to confirm the timing of Mr Givan's resignation statement.

He had been in post for just over eight months.

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis described Mr Givan's decision to resign as "extremely disappointing".

In a statement, Mr Lewis said: "I urge them to reinstate the First Minister immediately to ensure the necessary delivery of public services for the citizens of Northern Ireland."

The announcement comes less than 24 hours after DUP Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots ordered a halt to agri-food checks at Northern Ireland ports.

Mr Givan told reporters: "Our institutions are being tested once again, and the delicate balance created by the Belfast and St Andrew's agreements has been impacted by the agreement made by the United Kingdom government and the European Union which created the Northern Ireland Protocol.

"The consent principle is a cornerstone of the Belfast Agreement and it is my earnest desire that all sections of the community will soon be able to give consent to the restoration of a fully functioning executive, through a resolution to the issues that have regrettably brought us to this point."

Story continues

Speaking after Mr Givan's resignation, DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said the Northern Ireland Protocol "represents an existential threat to the future of Northern Ireland's place within the Union".

Irish premier Micheal Martin said he was "deeply concerned" after Mr Givan's resignation, which he described as "a very damaging move".

"The protocol is part of an international treaty agreed and ratified by the UK and EU, to protect the Good Friday Agreement in all its dimensions," his spokesperson said.

"The UK has an obligation under international law, and under its own domestic law, to ensure it meets is obligations under the protocol."

The spokesperson added that Mr Martin has urged the DUP "to return to full engagement with all institutions of the Good Friday Agreement and avoid any action that could damage peace and stability in Northern Ireland".

Mr Givan's departure means Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill automatically loses her position as Deputy First Minister - because under Northern Ireland's power-sharing arrangements the roles of first and deputy first ministers are a joint office shared between the two largest parties at Stormont.

It is believed other ministers in the administration will stay in place to oversee their departments.

But the executive will be unable to make any significant decisions - such as agreeing the three-year-budget spending plan which is currently under public consultation.

Sinn Fein had called for an early election at Stormont in response to reports of the DUP first minister's imminent departure.

Mr Poots issued a direction on Wednesday evening instructing officials to stop the agri-food checks at midnight.

However, there has been no confirmation from Stormont officials whether they intend to comply with the order.

On Thursday morning, lorries were still being received at a Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) checking facility in Belfast Port.

The prime minister's official spokesperson told reporters that checks are continuing despite the order for them to stop, and that the PM would like them to continue while talks with the EU are ongoing.

Read more: What is the Northern Ireland protocol?

Environment Secretary George Eustice later told the Commons there have been "no operational changes on the ground as yet" in terms of Northern Ireland Protocol checks.

Mr Eustice added that his officials "continue to liaise" with their counterparts in Northern Ireland, adding that it is "too early to say what the legal position is".

He added the government recognises that the Northern Ireland Protocol is "causing significant problems" in its current form and remains "committed" to finding solutions.

The European Commission has said the decision creates "further uncertainty and unpredictability".

"The European Commission has been working tirelessly with the UK government to address practical challenges related to the implementation of the protocol," a spokesperson for the Commission said.

"The decision by the Northern Irish minister for agriculture (Edwin Poots) is therefore unhelpful. It creates further uncertainty and unpredictability for businesses and citizens in Northern Ireland.

"The European Commission will closely monitor developments in Northern Ireland pursuant to this announcement."

The spokesperson added that the Vice President of the European Commission, Maros Sefcovic, will speak to Foreign Secretary Liz Truss on Thursday afternoon to continue negotiations aimed at reducing the number of checks required by the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The UK government has said it will not intervene in what it has characterised as a matter that falls to Stormont.
Sri Lanka has decided to purchase petrol and diesel, 40,000 metric tonnes each, from the Indian Oil Corporation, according to a Cabinet note on Tuesday, as part of the government's bid to tide over the current fuel and energy crisis faced by the island nation.

The move came weeks after Power Minister Gamini Lokuge said that Sri Lanka will hold talks with the Indian Oil Corporations local entity amidst a severe foreign exchange crisis.

The Lanka IOC, the Sri Lankan subsidiary of India's oil major Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), has been in operation in Sri Lanka since 2002.

According to the Cabinet statement, the Ministry of Energy has discussed with the IOC to procure 40,000 metric tonnes of diesel and 40,000 metric tonnes of petrol.

Also read: Tank bottom: Topping up a depleted world could push oil toward $100

Accordingly, the Indian Oil Corporation has agreed to supply a shipment of 40,000 metric tonnes of diesel, it said.

The Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal tabled by the Minister of Energy to take further measures to buy the Oil consignment.

Sri Lanka in the recent weeks has been mulling different options to facilitate measures to prevent fuel pumps from going dry as the island nation was faced with a severe foreign exchange crisis to pay for its imports.

Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila had predicted fuel shortages in the country due to the inability to pay for imports.

When the crisis loomed, the government approached the IOCs local operation LIOC to import fuel for the government.

The LIOC had earlier declined the request as they themselves were affected by the shortage of foreign currency to import.

Sri Lanka is currently facing a severe foreign exchange crisis with falling reserves.

The country is grappling with a shortage of almost all essentials due to the lack of dollars to pay for the imports.

Additionally, power cuts are imposed at peak hours as the state power entity is unable to obtain fuel to run turbines.

The state fuel entity has stopped oil supplies as the electricity board has large unpaid bills. The only refinery was recently shut as it was unable to pay dollars for crude imports.

Last month, the Indian government announced a billion dollar assistance package in addition to other balance of payment support to Sri Lanka.

The billion dollar loan credit facility is to be used to avert a food crisis while allowing for the import of items and medicines. Additionally, there will be $500 million for importing fuel from India.

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A former police officer was sentenced to 40 years in prison after being convicted of molesting a juvenile under the age of 13 in Acadia Parish, the 15th Judicial District Attorneys Office said.

Damon Broussard, 45, was sentenced by 15th Judicial District Court Judge Marilyn Castle on Tuesday to 40 years in prison at hard labor, assistant district attorney Brian Langford said.

Per Louisiana law, at least 25 years of the sentence will be without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

Broussard is a former Crowley Police Department officer. He was first arrested in 2013 on counts of aggravated rape and molestation of a juvenile, for separate past instances where he abused a child under 15 and a child under 13. He was employed by the Lake Arthur Police Department at the time of his arrest, per a KPLC-TV report.

Lafayette nurse practitioner arrested in Alexandria for human trafficking, narcotics (Editor's note: The original story was edited to reflect that an Alexandria nurse reported missing Jan. 31 has been found safe.)

He was convicted following a jury trial in Crowley in November.

The molestation charge stemmed from Broussards abuse of an 8-year-old child. The victim, now an adult, and five other women who came forward to report being sexually abused by Broussard as children were present for his sentencing with their families Tuesday, Langford said.

The victim at the center of the case provided a victim impact statement in advance of the sentencing announcement; the other women were able to provide testimony during the trial as part of admissible evidence, the assistant district attorney said.

St. Landry nursing home worker accused of charging over $18,000 to resident's stolen credit card A nursing home worker is accused of stealing from an infirm resident, making over $18,000 in charges on the womans credit card and paying off

I think they were relieved. They were happy. I think ultimately they were just glad that something happened and that some closure was brought to them, and that they know they werent forgotten. I think theyre kind of prepared to close this chapter in their lives and move forward, Langford said.

The prosecutor said he felt similar relief being able to provide the women some closure.

Broussard still faces multiple charges of possession of child pornography tied to a spring 2018 arrest and other charges. He has been imprisoned at the Acadia Parish Jail since that 2018 arrest. Langford said the District Attorneys Office is determining how best to move forward with the remaining charges.

Hall of Fame jockey Kent Desormeaux arrested for domestic violence Kent Desormeaux, a hall of fame jockey, was booked with domestic abuse battery by strangulation.

Langford assumed control of the molestation case in January when he was hired by 15th Judicial District Attorney Don Landry. The case had languished for several years, for undetermined reasons, and Langford, co-counsel Burleigh Doga and the victims assistance coordinator Pam Fruge worked closely with the victims to revive the case, he said.

The prosecutor said Broussard was not on the job when the sexual abuse occurred, but he believes his position of authority as a police officer aided in his targeting of the victims.
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New Delhi, Feb 3 : The IANS-CVoter Punjab Tracker is revealing some interesting new trends with the entry of Captain Amarinder Singh as a new ally of BJP, a contest which is already multi cornered. As a part of the tracker, a snap poll simply asked the respondents across all 117 seats in Punjab, if they feel that PLC-BJP-SADs alliance candidate is in "serious contest" in their own area. The results show that every third voter in Punjab believes that Captain is still very much in serious contest along with his new alliance partners.

This sentiment is more highlighted in Hindu dominated areas of Doaba and Majha and less in Malwa. In electoral contests, if votes are concentrated in a geographical area, a party with a small vote share can win quite a few seats. For example, in the Lok Sabha elections of 2019, the Lok Janshakti Party polled hardly 8 per cent of the vote share in Bihar and managed to win 6 Lok Sabha seats. In contrast, the RJD got multiples of that vote share but failed to win a single seat. Similar trends have been spotted with JDS in Karnataka, NC in J&K or JMM in Jharkhand for that matter.

While very few analysts expected the alliance between the BJP, Captain Amarinder Singh's new party (PLC) and a breakaway faction of the Akali Dal (S) to be a serious contender for power on their own, voters in Punjab do feel it could throw surprises in select pockets like Patiala, Pathankot, Gurdaspur and Jalandhar. This has a potential to upset all calculations of different political parties.

The Punjab Tracker revealed that almost two third of BJP supporters now believed that their alliance candidates are in serious contention for one of top and leading spots in the race. Few months back hardly one in ten of core BJP supporters believed they are in the contest whatsoever. Four in ten Congress supporters also support the assertion made by BJP supporters with a further 13 per cent being undecided. Again, assuming an even split of the undecided voters, nearly half voters of Congress are taking the possible damage inflicted by BJP-PLC seriously.

Even Akali Dal (Badal) voters are not taking the BJP-PLC combine lightly. Almost half of Akali voters feel that local BJP-PLC candidates will finish in the top three positions and a further 23 per cent voters of Akali Dal are undecided. At the absolute minimum, a majority of potential Akali voters are ranking BJP-PLC as a serious contender in their respective seats. Only AAP supporters (30 per cent) are dismissive of the BJP-PLC candidates. Almost 60 per cent AAP supporters feel that BJP-PLC is not really in the contest in their respective seats.

The clear separation of trend between AAP and the PLC-BJP, INC and Akali Dal is a result of the voter catchment that the respective entities dwell in. AAP is more active in Jatt Sikh belt of Malwa while Akali Dal and INC are pan-Punjab parties. Currently, AAP is dominating Malwa where BJP-PLC have slender presence outside of Patiala and some other pockets. Thus AAP's voters do not see PLC-BJP anywhere in the reckoning.

Also, this data is reflective of the growing communal divide that was fostered by some elements during the farmer protests. The predominantly urban and concentrated Hindu vote catchments of Punjabi cities are perhaps not in sync with rural sentiment. We may witness the trend of split vote and divided polity in Punjab after a long while. Last time this trend was observed during the turbulent 1980s.

Which brings us to the question of silent voting. Punjab is a post-conflict society that is a result of nearly a decade of brutal violence. Different communities have different takes on some contentious issues, over time the divisions have narrowed down. However, there is a sense of uncertainty now with Captain Amarinder Singh's departure from Congress and the loss of traction for Akali Dal (Badal).

In caste terms support for Captain and BJP alliance is most bullish among OBC Hindus (55 per cent), the next highest are Brahmins (45 per cent) and Banias (40 per cent) voters among Hindus. Dalit voters belonging to various sub-castes of Hindu community (46 per cent) are also pro-alliance, but the same set from Sikh community is largely pro Congress courtesy a Dalit CM fame. Bottom line is that BJP-PLC is considered seriously competitive by 37 per cent voters in Punjab. This is correlated to the proportion of Hindu votes in the state and also the concentration of the same in various pockets. Due to the silent nature of voters from minority communities (Hindus) there may be some underestimation for the level of actual support for the BJP-PLC combine in different surveys.
Islamabad, Feb 3 : Pakistans Balochistan province has seen a major surge of targeted terror attacks on security check posts, security camps, located at sensitive districts. A newly-formed group Balochistan Nationalist Army (BNA), which is fast becoming a major opponent to Pakistans security forces operating in the province, has claimed the fresh wave of attacks.

BNA, a merged organisation of United Baloch Army (UBA) and the Balochistan Republican Army (BRA) established about a month ago, has started to make its strong presence be felt severely as it has targeted important security check posts and camps of the Pakistani armed forces, claiming lives of soldiers and showcasing it capability of carrying out parallel targeted attacks.

In a latest of such attacks, armed assailants targeted two security posts in Panjgur district of Balochistan.

As per Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attack was successfully foiled while the attackers were neutralized with heavy casualties inflicted to the terrorists.

The attack triggered an hours-long gun battle between the attacks and the security forces, resulting in killing of at least four attacks and one Pakistani soldier.

Few hours after the attack, BNA terrorists tried to enter into security camp in the Naushki district of Balochistan province, engaging the security forces in a heavy exchange of fire. According to the Pakistan military, this attack was also foiled; killing at least four attackers while one Pakistani soldier was wounded.

The latest attacks come about a week after at least 10 Pakistani soldiers were killed in a attack on a security post in Kech town of Balochistan province.

Kech has been among the main sites of armed rebellion groups, where Pakistan has been carrying out Intelligence Based Operation (IBO) and fighting against separatist groups.

Balochistan has become a major challenge for Pakistani security forces as various separatist groups, who demand independence from the central government of the country, have vowed to fight against what they called occupation of the Pakistani forces.

On the other hand, Pakistan maintains that these rebel groups have been repressed and their armed uprising has been quashed. Pakistan has maintained that many revel groups like the BNA, are supported by Iran and India, who use them as mercenaries to spread chaos in the country.
But Mr. Lujans condition was a stark reminder that Senate Democrats  who serve in an institution where nearly half of all members are over the age of 65  are never more than one sudden illness away from losing their working majority. It prompted some Democrats who have been agitating for Mr. Biden to move more swiftly to nominate and confirm a replacement for Justice Stephen G. Breyer to step up their calls for a pick sooner rather than later, before some other unforeseen event sidelines another Democrat at an inopportune moment.

I would encourage the president to expedite the schedule, said Representative G.K Butterfield, Democrat of North Carolina, noting that President Donald J. Trump and a Republican-led Senate pushed through Justice Amy Coney Barretts nomination in record time, just before the 2020 election. Weve got a 50-50 Senate, and there can be emergencies that can tilt this in one direction or the other.

How quickly to proceed has already emerged as a source of tension among Democrats.

Some, like Mr. Butterfield, are calling for the Senate to follow the rapid pace Republicans set when they confirmed Justice Barrett without a single Democratic vote in a matter of weeks, saying Republicans have established a new precedent from the slower timetables of the past.

But Mr. Biden, already facing criticism from some Republicans for promising to consider only Black women, appears to prefer an extended review of candidates, perhaps to show that the White House cast a wide net and was deliberate in making its choice. In addition, Justice Breyer plans to remain on the court through the end of the term in June, negating the need for immediate action.

How Times reporters cover politics. We rely on our journalists to be independent observers. So while Times staff members may vote, they are not allowed to endorse or campaign for candidates or political causes. This includes participating in marches or rallies in support of a movement or giving money to, or raising money for, any political candidate or election cause. Learn more about our process.

Mr. Schumer, who traveled to the White House on Wednesday to discuss the upcoming nomination with Mr. Biden, has said he wants to act with deliberate speed. Mr. Durbin, who will oversee the confirmation hearing, said this week that he was seeking a middle ground between moving too precipitously and unnecessarily extending the proceedings.

But if Mr. Lujan is not able to vote or another Democratic senator is sidelined, it could present a problem, particularly if Republicans oppose the nominee en masse.
Allentown, PA (18103)

Today

A few clouds early, but overall an abundance of sunshine. Feeling more like late October. Northwest winds may gust to 35 mph. .

Tonight

Mostly clear and cool with diminishing winds.
INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brandon Abraham Yosha has been included in Marquis Who's Who - Top Lawyers in America.

Brandon Yosha is only 28 years old. Due to his success in the courtroom at such a young age, Brandon has become the youngest attorney ever inducted into the Marquis Who's Who list of Top Lawyers in America. Since 1898, Marquis has selected prominent lawyers from across the country for induction into its exclusive list of Top Lawyers in America. It is truly remarkable to learn that a lawyer only in his second year of practice has been inducted into this elite fraternity of barristers. So what did it take for Brandon to make the Marquis Who's Who list? Brandon explained, "It took every fiber of my being. I prepare all of our clients' cases as if I was the victim, or my loved one was the victim. I take the personal in personal injury lawyer to heart."

Just five weeks into practice as a licensed attorney in Indiana, Brandon's father, Louis "Buddy" Yosha, entrusted Brandon to deliver the opening statement on damages for an upcoming jury trial scheduled for Oct. 28, 2020  the last jury trial held in central Indiana for the remainder of the calendar year, due to the Court's COVID-19 backlog. Brandon seized this opportunity by preparing vigorously for what would become a two-week jury trial. In brief, Brandon's new client was permanently disabled after sustaining an electric shock injury while working on an Indiana power plant. Brandon ultimately delivered the final argument on damages in addition to his nearly two-hour opening statement. The jury returned a verdict of $20.3 million  making this verdict the 12th-largest in America in 2020 for all civil cases.

Several prominent trial lawyers in Indiana attended the trial to watch the younger Yosha's debut. Among those who saw the final argument live was Lee Christie, past Trial Lawyer of the Year for the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, who later wrote the following on the ITLA's listserv:

"I know Buddy worked tirelessly with Brandon on his opening and closing, and I could see a lot of what Buddy taught Brandon when he gave his closing. It was an excellent closing, and you would never know it was Brandon's first jury trial. I learned a few things I will use in my next trial. I am sure Buddy is beyond proud, and this was very special to work with his son on the trial."

Brandon's father, Louis "Buddy" Yosha, was inducted into Marquis Who's Who nearly 50 years ago. Brandon may have large shoes to fill, but he has managed to create a name for himself in the courtroom just like his father did for decades in Indiana.

About Brandon Yosha

During his undergraduate studies, Brandon Yosha studied marketing at the University of Miami School of Business and Lehigh University College of Business and Economics. He was also a letter recipient for both universities as a running back for each school. After succumbing to a career-ending knee injury, Brandon chose to follow in his father's footsteps and pursued a law degree. Brandon obtained his Juris Doctorate from the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law in 2019. Since graduating from law school, Brandon has represented nearly 100 personal injury victims throughout the Hoosier state. Brandon has proven himself to be a difference-maker for his clients. He aspires to effectuate tremendous change for the betterment of injury victims in Indiana by advancing their right to full compensation and recovery. Several top lawyer organizations, including the National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 and National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers, have recognized Brandon for his early success in the courtroom.

About Yosha, Cook, and Tisch  Personal Injury Lawyers

Yosha, Cook, and Tisch was founded by Louis "Buddy" Yosha in 1963. The firm prides itself on strictly representing everyday Hoosiers rather than corporations or the corporate interest. Brandon serves as the newest advocate of Yosha Cook & Tisch  Personal Injury Lawyers and has already had a lasting impact on many injured Hoosiers and their family members by securing full justice for their losses.

In accounting for his success thus far, Brandon credits his diligent work ethic and penchant for doing everything in his power to achieve favorable outcomes in the courtroom of his peers. Looking toward the future, Brandon is eager to continue his passion for helping others as a trial lawyer for people, not the powerful.

Press Contact:

Ellen Campbell, Media Relations Director for Marquis Who's Who

Email: ec@marquisww.com

Address: 350 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556

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Dubai South, the largest single-urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics and real estate, has attracted more than 700 new companies in 2021 taking the total number of firms operating out of it to 4,600.

Ending 2021 on a high note by recording several outstanding achievements across its different divisions, the flagship urban project is designed to create 500,000 jobs in an integrated, economic environment that supports all types of businesses and industries.

Among achievements, the master developer Dubai South Properties handed over almost all its units at The Pulse, an urban mixed-use development comprising 1,400 apartments and 240 townhouses, and due to the projects success, the company launched The Pulse Villas, with the first and second phase having already sold out.

Following the inauguration of Expo 2020 Dubai, and based on popular demand, The Pulse Beachfront was launched, and the company succeeded in selling out phases one and two to interested investors, with the final phase due to launch in Q1 2022.

The Residential District Villa Plots (Baiti) was also launched, and the company also sold out all the plots on sale. The Pulse community development was launched on phases and continues to grow rapidly attracting end-users and new buyers due to its unique features, strategic location and the companys track record in delivering on its promises.

The Residential District currently boasts a population of over 25,000 residents, who are enjoying the unique lifestyle and amenities that it offers. Moreover, Sakany, Dubai Souths first leasehold staff accommodation that emphasises resident welfare has an occupancy rate of 99%.

The company also launched another remarkable project, The Avenue, a limited number of freehold commercial plots that can be purchased on a payment plan and developed by investors for commercial use.

As a result of the optimum services and business solutions that it offers to customers, the Business Park at Dubai South recorded outstanding numbers in 2021 compared to 2020, by leasing 243,805 square feet of space, and retaining 85% of the companies operating there.

Moreover, the total number of people working out of Dubai South reached to 20,848 individuals by end of 2021.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, the aerospace platform of Dubai dedicated to the advancement of the aerospace industry, has rounded up the year by launching several unique projects. One such project is Dubai Helipark, its helicopter centre and the largest of its kind, accommodating eight helicopters to facilitate transport between business centres and tourist destinations across the UAE.

Phase one is now operational, and the second phase will be completed later this year. The Dubai Free Port, the first Super Vault in the region, was also announced and will be used by VIP travellers and HNWIs seeking to store fine artworks and precious physical assets in secure facilities within a custom-bonded area. MBRAH also launched its Line Maintenance Units, which hosts seven international aviation players.

Also, during Dubai Airshow 2021, an agreement with Comlux was signed to develop a hangar facility at MBRAH.

It was also a successful year for the Logistics District at Dubai South, as the first phase of EZDubai infrastructure, already completed, amounting to 50% of the total area of the district. Moreover, the district cooling services is already operational which will help maintain a sustainable e-commerce zone and reduce carbon emissions.

Moreover, EZDubai e-commerce zone succeeded in attracting several companies to the e-commerce hub, such as noon which announced its expansion with the opening of its customer fulfilment facility to expand upon its operations and continuous drive for growth.

As a result of the surge in demand for last mile facilities across the region, we also managed to attract Uda Express, one of the largest express companies in China, Emirates Post, which opened its second-largest sorting and delivery centre in the UAE, as well as, FedEx Express, the worlds largest express transportation company, which will also build its new regional hub for the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa (MEISA) region at the Logistics District.

Moreover, it also welcomed DHL which will launch its first Mobile Middle East and Africa Innovation Centre at the Logistics District, in the aim of solving complex logistics challenges, learning about the latest trends in logistics, and to network with industry innovators across the MEA region. This is a testament to the districts advanced infrastructure and solutions that are favoured by international companies looking to expand to the region or grow their operations.

In his comments, Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation Corporation and Dubai South, said: We achieved growth despite the general impact of Covid-19 on the business landscape. This is attributed to the unrivalled support of the government and its initiatives to boost the emirates economy and to our well-thought-of plans and strategies to ensure that we increase investments across several industries in Dubai. We are optimistic for this year, and we hope that we reach greater heights across Dubai South.

Dubai South was launched as a Dubai Government project in 2006, representing an emerging 145 square-kilometre, master-planned city based on the happiness of the individual.-- TradeArabia News Service
Protesters will rally against the Religious Discrimination Bill on Friday, as several students have reportedly left or planned to tear up their enrolment at the embattled Citipointe Christian College.

The Brisbane school has copped a week of condemnation over its controversial enrolment contract, including from Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who said he did not support it.

Citipointe Christian College, the Brisbane school at the centre of a national storm over gender discrimination. Credit:Internet

Principal Brian Mulheran sent the contract to families requiring students to agree to their biological gender and denounce homosexuality.

But despite Mr Mulheran retracting the contract on Thursday and apologising, protests were scheduled in Brisbanes CBD for Friday evening.
Canberra, Feb 3 : Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt on THursday flagged a possible change to the definition of "fully vaccinated" against Covid-19 to require booster shots.

Hunt said he is expecting Australia's peak vaccine advisory body, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), to expand its definition of vaccination to three doses within weeks, reports Xinhua news agency.

"But my expectation is that we're likely to have from ATAGI over the course of, you know, the next week or coming weeks, advice that the definition of fully vaccinated will require three vaccinations going forward," he said in a press conference in Canberra.

It comes as ATAGI on Thursday approved the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine for use as a booster for Australians as young as 16 years.

It is the first booster vaccine approved for under-18s in Australia, with 16 and 17-year-olds eligible for a third vaccine dose three months after the second.

"This recommendation is based on a review of Covid-19 epidemiology, disease burden, health benefits directly to individuals and indirectly to the community, and safety considerations in this age group," ATAGI said in a statement.

Approximately 90 per cent of 16 and 17-year-old Australians have received two vaccine doses and about 60 per cent are now eligible for a booster shot.
Laxman Pai, Opalesque Asia:

Stonepeak, an alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets, closed its flagship Stonepeak Infrastructure Fund IV at $14 billion, exceeding its $12 billion target.

According to a press release from the New York-based alternative money manager, Stonepeak Infrastructure Fund III, which closed with $7.2 billion in capital commitments after targeting $5 billion, was raised in 2018.

Stonepeak, which now has $46 billion in assets under management, will seek to make infrastructure bets across North America, particularly in sectors including transport and logistics, communications, and energy transition.

The Fund received commitments from a diverse group of more than 150 global investors from 23 different countries with strong support from both existing and new investors. Approximately 57% of total commitments came from existing partners.

Investors in Fund IV include the New York State Common Retirement Fund, Albany; Texas Teacher Retirement System, Austin; New Jersey Pension Fund, Trenton; Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund, Tigard; Alaska Permanent Fund Corp., Juneau; Illinois Teachers' Retirement System, Springfield; South Carolina Retirement Systems, Columbia; Louisiana Teachers' Retirement System, Baton Rouge; Orange County Employees Retirement System, Santa Ana, Calif.; and Maine Public Employees Retirement System, Augusta.

Stonepeak CEO, Chairman, and Co-Founder Michael Dorrell said, "Th......................

To view our full article Click here
Laxman Pai, Opalesque Asia:

Venture capital (VC) investment in Asia remained quite strong in Q4'21 with $46.2bn raised across 2,440 deals, helping lift total VC investment to a new record high.

According to a report by KPMG, several companies across the Asia Pacific region attracted large deals, including Indonesia-based J&T Express ($2.5 billion), and China-based companies - Regor Therapeutics ($1.5 billion), GTA Semiconductor ($1.25 billion), and Nanjing LingHang Technology ($1.2 billion), Singapore-based MoonPay ($555 million), and India-based PharmEasy ($350 million).

VC investment in China remained solid in Q4'21, propelled by several large deals involving AI-driven companies, including Nanjing LingHang Technology ($1.2 billion), Dreame Technology ($558 million), and Avatar Technology ($377 million). The quarter also saw AI company SenseTime raise $740 million in its debut on the HKSE.

VC investment in India dropped dramatically in Q4'21 compared to the record high set in Q3'21, said the report. Despite the optics, however, Q4'21 was India's second-best quarter of VC investment ever. A growing economy, stable government policies, and a growing middle class have all contributed to the upswell in interest from VC investors.

Meanwhile, corporate VC activity was very strong in Asia in 2021, with the number of CVC deals reaching a record high and CVC investment falling just shy of one. India, in particular, saw a steep rise in both the number of CVC deals ......................

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New York, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market Report 2022-2032" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06226876/?utm_source=GNW



The Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market Report 2022-2032: This report will prove invaluable to leading firms striving for new revenue pockets if they wish to better understand the industry and its underlying dynamics. It will be useful for companies that would like to expand into different industries or to expand their existing operations in a new region.



Automobile Manufacturers And Suppliers Are Also Collaborating With Automation Technology Businesses



To stay competitive, a number of businesses are focusing on automating operational procedures to save money, time, and produce high-quality products. In a manufacturing plant, industrial robots automate internal processes and minimise employee workload by collaborating with workers to increase productivity. For many years, the automobile industry has used automation technology, and the industry is continuing to advance on the automation front. Automobile manufacturers and suppliers are also collaborating with automation technology businesses to use these technologies in their production facilities. Automobile manufacturers, for example, such as BMW and Ford Motor Co., are collaborating closely with additive manufacturers to implement the technology in their manufacturing facilities. Furthermore, organisations are employing augmented and virtual reality to address production difficulties. Furthermore, the automobile sector is focusing on achieving exceptional results from industry 4.0, in which connected machines communicate with one another and human operators to ensure efficient and smooth operations. As a result, the expansion of the automotive robotics market is fueled by rising automation in the automation industry



What Are These Questions You Should Ask Before Buying A Market Research Report?

 How is the automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing market evolving?

 What is driving and restraining the automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing market?

 How will each automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing submarket segment grow over the forecast period and how much revenue will these submarkets account for in 2032?

 How will the market shares for each automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing submarket develop from 2022 to 2032?

 What will be the main driver for the overall market from 2022 to 2032?

 Will leading automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing markets broadly follow the macroeconomic dynamics, or will individual national markets outperform others?

 How will the market shares of the national markets change by 2032 and which geographical region will lead the market in 2032?

 Who are the leading players and what are their prospects over the forecast period?

 What are the automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing projects for these leading companies?

 How will the industry evolve during the period between 2020 and 2032? What are the implication of automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing projects taking place now and over the next 10 years?

 Is there a greater need for product commercialisation to further scale the automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing market?

 Where is the automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing market heading? And how can you ensure you are at the forefront of the market?

 What can be the best investment options for new product and service lines?

 What are the key prospects for moving companies into a new growth path? C-suite?



You need to discover how this will impact the automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing market today, and over the next 10 years:

 Our 438-page report provides 340 tables and 330 charts/graphs exclusively to you.

 The report highlights key lucrative areas in the industry so you can target them  NOW.

 Contains in-depth analyse of global, regional and national sales and growth

 Highlights for you the key successful trends, changes and revenue projections made by your competitors



This report tells you TODAY how the automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing market will develop in the next 10 years, and in-line with the variations in COVID-19 economic recession and bounce. This market is more critical now than at any point over the last 10 years.



Forecasts to 2032 and other analyses reveal the commercial prospects

 In addition to revenue forecasting to 2032, our new study provides you with recent results, growth rates, and market shares.

 You find original analyses, with business outlooks and developments.

 Discover qualitative analyses (including market dynamics, drivers, opportunities, restraints and challenges), cost structure, impact of rising automation & robotics in automotive manufacturing prices and recent developments.



This report includes data analysis and invaluable insight into how COVID-19 will affect the industry and your company. Four COVID-19 recovery patterns and their impact, namely, V, L, W and U are



discussed in this report.



Global Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market (COVID Impact Analysis) by End-User

 Vehicle Manufacturers

 Automotive Component Manufacturers



Global Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market (COVID Impact Analysis) by Application

 Welding Robots

 Painting Robots

 Cutting Robots

 Material Handling Robots

 Other Application



Global Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market (COVID Impact Analysis) by Component

 Controller Components

 Robotic Arm

 End Effector

 Sensor Components

 Drive Components

 Other Components



Global Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market (COVID Impact Analysis) by Type

 Articulated

 Cylindrical

 SCARA

 Cartesian



In addition to the revenue predictions for the overall world market and segments, you will also find revenue forecasts for 4 regional and 20 leading national markets:

 North America Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Outlook

 U.S. Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Canada Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Mexico Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Europe Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Outlook

 Germany Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Spain Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 United Kingdom Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 France Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Italy Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Rest of Europe Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Asia Pacific Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Outlook

 China Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Japan Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 India Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Australia Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 South Korea Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Rest of Asia Pacific Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 LAMEA Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Outlook

 Brazil Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Turkey Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Saudi Arabia Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 South Africa Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 UAE Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market Forecast & COVID Impact Analysis

 Rest of Latin America, Middle East and Africa



The report also includes profiles and for some of the leading companies in the Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032, with a focus on this segment of these companies operations.



Leading companies and the potential for market growth

 ABB

 Comau Spa

 Denso Wave Incorporated

 Fanuc Corporation

 Harmonic Drive System

 Honda Motor Co. ltd

 Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.

 Kuka AG

 Midea Group Co. Ltd.

 Mitsubishi Electric corporation

 Nachi-Fujikoshi Corp.

 Omron Adept Robotics

 Rockwell Automation Inc.

 Seiko Epson Corporation

 Siasun Robot & Automation Co., Ltd.

 Siemens AG

 Staubli International AG

 Universal Robots

 Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

 Yaskawa Electric Corporation



Overall world revenue for Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 in terms of value the market will surpass US$xx million in 2022, our work calculates. We predict strong revenue growth through to 2032. Our work identifies which organizations hold the greatest potential. Discover their capabilities, progress, and commercial prospects, helping you stay ahead.



How the Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market report helps you?



In summary, our 430+ page report provides you with the following knowledge:

 Revenue forecasts to 2032 for Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market, with forecasts for components, end-user, application, system, type each forecasted at a global and regional level discover the industrys prospects, finding the most lucrative places for investments and revenues

 Revenue forecasts to 2032 for 4 regional and 20 key national markets  See forecasts for the Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 market in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and LAMEA. Also forecasted is the market in the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, France, UK, Italy, China, India, Japan, and Australia among other prominent economies.

 Prospects for established firms and those seeking to enter the market including company profiles for 20 of the major companies involved in the Automation & Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing Market, 2022 to 2032 Market.



Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06226876/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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Google Cloud has teamed up with Intelcia, a global outsourcing company, that will involve the migration of Intelcias entire workforce to Google Workspace.

The move enables the Morocco-based organisations 35,000 employees to benefit from increased productivity, seamless co-creation, and accelerated innovation.

Intelcia plans to leverage Google Workspace solutions spanning Gmail, Google Calendar, Drive, Docs, Slides, Sheets, Chat, and Google Meet to safely and securely enable collaboration, communication, and productivity amongst all of its employees.

Google Workspace is built with a foundation of Google Cloud security built-in, enabling Intelcias employees to work safely and securely anytime and from anywhere. Google Workspace is also powered by the cleanest cloud in the industry and is committed to supporting Intelcias sustainability goals, as employees can join meetings, attend events, and collaborate remotely using tools that do not require additional hardware.

Google Workspace is also committed to helping Intelcias entire workforce connect virtually with solutions designed for modern-day workplace collaboration. The company will benefit from Google Clouds 24/7 global network support and its secure-by-design infrastructure.

The solutions are tailored to accommodate peak demands and enable scaling operations at speed, thereby supporting Intelcias future growth and market expansion plans.

Abdulrahman Al Thehaiban, Managing Director Middle East, Turkey and Africa, Google Cloud said: Intelcia is one of Google Cloud's key customers for Google Workspace based in Northern Africa, and as a multi-sectoral service provider, it relies on inter-office collaboration to offer innovative and timely solutions to its global customers. Google Workspace facilitates essential workplace interaction for productive outcomes, and we are pleased to support Intelcia as it gears up to expand into new markets and enhance customer experience. We remain committed to helping global businesses such as Intelcia thrive with Google Workspace and achieve their digital transformation goals.

Youssef El Aoufir, COO and Co-founder of Intelcia said: As a fast-growing global outsourcing company, Intelcia is at the forefront of operational excellence and delivering best-in-class customer service and technology solutions. Google Workspace is allowing us to transform our 20-year-old business into new and modern frontiers. It has fuelled our digital transformation goals and helped us navigate the future of hybrid work with its unique solutions. It has allowed us to embrace a more agile, flexible and scalable mode of operations and helped our global teams create, communicate, and collaborate better. Through this agreement, we look forward to accelerating innovation, business transformation and empowering our employees with tools that will help them succeed in todays digital era.

The strategic collaboration is being implemented in partnership with Maroc Cloud, a cloud integrator in Morocco and a Google Cloud Partner, which is supporting the onboarding process and integration of Intelcias 35,000 employees to Google Workspace.-- TradeArabia News Service
New Delhi: A day after Congress MP Rahul Gandhi led a scathing attack on the Modi government, Union minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday (February 3) attacked him over his remarks in the Lok Sabha.

Talking to ANI, the Law minister said Gandhi thinks he is born to rule the country. This is a Republic, not kingdom that you're a leader the moment you're born. People elect their representatives. Rahul Gandhi is trapped in orthodox thinking that he's born to rule the country. It's the time of 'sevaks'..He thinks he has become a 'King from a Prince', Rijiju told the news agency.

On Gandhis remark that this government has brought Pakistan and China together, the BJP minister said, Rahul Gandhi makes remarks that harm the country, and benefit rivals (Pak, China)...A responsible leader should never talk like that. We don't want Rahul Gandhi's India where people travel abroad secretly. We want India with a vision to serve people.

This is a Republic,not kingdom that you're a leader the moment you're born. People elect their representatives. Rahul Gandhi is trapped in orthodox thinking that he's born to rule the country. It's the time of 'sevaks'...He thinks he has become a 'King from a Prince':Law Minister pic.twitter.com/juy88z6fYl February 3, 2022

On Wednesday, speaking in the Lok Sabha during the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address, Rahul Gandhi made several allegations against the Centre and said there are "two Indias". His remarks on the judiciary and Election Commission also irked the ruling BJP.

The former Congress chief had said in the Lok Sabha, "The Judiciary, the Election Commission, Pegasus, these are all instruments of destroying the voice of the union of states." Rijiju on Wednesday had demanded an unconditional apology from Rahul Gandhi over these remarks.

"I personally don`t take Rahul Gandhi seriously. But because he`s a leader of his political party and has spoken these words on the Floor of the House, I`ve to take note of this. He has to come before House and he has to tender an unconditional apology to all courts and EC," the minister had said.

(With agency inputs)

Live TV
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

High blood pressure among younger adults, ages 20-40 years, appears to be linked to brain changes in midlife (average age 55) that may increase risk for later cognitive decline, according to preliminary research to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2022.

According to the American Heart Association, from 2015-2019 more than 47% of U.S. adults had high blood pressure. In 2019, the U.S. age-adjusted death rate primarily attributable to high blood pressure was 25.1 per 100,000. High blood pressure death rates for non-Hispanic Black adults were 56 per 100,000 among males and 38.7 per 100,000 for females.

Studies have found that high blood pressure disrupts the structure and function of the brain's blood vessels, damaging regions of the brain that are critical for cognitive function.

"There are studies to suggest changes to the brain may start at a young age," said Christina Lineback, M.D., lead study author and a vascular neurology fellow at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. "Our study provides further evidence that high blood pressure during young adulthood may contribute to changes in the brain later in life."

Researchers analyzed 30 years of follow-up including MRI brain images (performed once at the age of 30, and then again at midlifeabout the age of 55 years) for 142 adults from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. The CARDIA study enrolled participants from four U.S. cities (Birmingham, Alabama; Chicago, Illinois; Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Oakland, California), in 1985-1986. In total, the study recruited more than 5,000 Black and white adults, ages 18 to 30 years, who have been followed for over 30 years.

In one follow up including 142 of the participants (42% women), researchers examined changes in brain structures in midlife (average age 55) from cumulative exposures to vascular risk factors, including high blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, smoking and glucose, from young adulthood to midlife. They also evaluated if there were any differences by race or ethnicity; nearly 40% of the study participants (n=55) were Black adults.

The analysis found:

Younger adults who had higher cumulative blood pressure exposure (from 25 to 55 years of age) had more changes visible on brain imaging at midlife, which may increase the risk of cognitive dysfunction in mid- and late life.

The brain changes that occurred were similar across all races and ethnic groups examined in the study when accounting for the degree of high blood pressure exposure.

"We were surprised that we could see brain changes in even this small sample of participants from the CARDIA study," Lineback said. "Given the greater likelihood of high blood pressure in some racial and ethnic groups, this study's finding should encourage health care professionals to aggressively address high blood pressure in young adults, as a potential target to narrow disparities in brain health."

A potential next step is to develop and implement systems to better treat and monitor blood pressure in young age groups and assess for brain changes over time, according to Lineback.

A limitation of the study is that it is a retrospective analysis, which means the findings cannot prove the brain changes were caused by high blood pressure.

Explore further Earlier onset of high blood pressure affects brain structure, may increase dementia risk
February 03 : The actors of Gangubai Kathiawadi, Alia Bhatt, and Ajay Devgn, are gearing up for the release of the film on February 25. While recently a new poster featuring

Alia was release, today, Ajay Devgn has revealed his first look from the film.

Taking to his Instagram handle, Ajay, who plays a pivotal role in the film, has shared his first look from Gangubai Kathiawadi. The makers will release the trailer of the film tomorrow, Friday.

In his first look poster, Ajay Devgn can be seen in a white shirt and cream trousers, paired with a grey blazer, a Nehru cap and dark shades. He is seen in front of a car in the middle of a crowded street. Introducing his character, Ajay wrote, Apni pehchaan se chaar chand lagane, aa rahe hai hum! (I'm coming to add a special touch with my personality).

Several industry friends, colleagues and fans reacted to his first look. Ranveer Singh took to the comments section and wrote, Powerrrr. A fan said, Now truly excited for this movie, while another wrote, Can't wait. Gangubai Kathiawadi is Ajays second collaboration with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali after over two decades. The two had earlier worked together in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam in 1999. Ajay had started shooting for Gangubai Kathiawadi in February last year, when Sanjay Leela Bhansali's production team had confirmed on social media and wrote, "We are happy to have @ajaydevgn join the team of #GangubaiKathiawadi."

Sanjay Leela Bhansalis much-anticipated film Gangubai Kathiawadi has been recently postponed by a week. The film will now hit the theatres on February 25. Earlier, it was slated to release on February 18. The movie has been earlier delayed several times due to Covid-19 pandemic in the country since March 2020.

The much-awaited film will be screened at the 72nd edition of the Berlin International Film Festival this year. So grateful to be part of a wonderful team that now celebrates its official selection to the #BerlinFilmFestival2022. See you on 18th February, 2022, Alia had tweeted after the films selection at the Berlin International Film Festival. Gangubai Kathiawadi is the only Indian film that has been selected to be screened at the Berlin International Film Festival. The film will be screened as a part of the Berlinale Special Gala, a segment that showcases exemplary cinema.

Gangubai Kathiawadi is a biographical crime drama produced by Jayantilal Gada and Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Besides Alia Bhatt, the film features Vijay Raaz, Indira Tiwari and Seema Pahwa in pivotal roles. Ajay Devgn and Emraan Hashmi are featured in extended cameo appearances. The film is based on the life of young Ganga, who becomes Gangubai, a madame in the red light area of Kamathipura, who later transforms into a political figure. Gangubai Kathiawadi will also release in Telugu. The film is adapted from one of the chapters of author Hussain Zaidi's book Mafia Queens of Mumbai.
New York Police Department officers prepare to make their way into St. Patricks Cathedral in New York for the funeral of fallen policeman, Wilbert Mora, on Feb. 2, 2022. (Dave Paone/The Epoch Times)

Thousands of Officers Turn Out to Farewell Second of Two Slain Policemen

NEW YORKFor the second time in as many weeks police officers from far and wide assembled on Feb. 2 at St. Patricks Roman Catholic Cathedral in New York for the funeral of one of their own.

A funeral mass was held at 10 a.m. (EST) for Wilbert Mora, the second of two policemen who were recently shot and killed in the line of duty.

The funeral of the first fallen officer, Jason Rivera, was held at St. Patricks last week.

Although overcast and damp there was no rain as Moras brethren assembled in front of the church on Fifth Avenue.

Attending personnel wore their class-A dress uniforms with white gloves and black mourning bands across their shields.

A New York Police Department policewoman wears a mourning band across her shield at St. Patricks Cathedral in New York for the funeral of fallen policeman Wilbert Mora on Feb. 2, 2022. (Dave Paone/The Epoch Times)

The funeral began with organ music, a cantor, and a choir singing a hymn based on Psalm 23The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not wantfollowed by the traditional Hallelujah hymn.

Several priests celebrated the mass. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York, serving as the principal.

The mass was said in both English and Spanish.

New York Mayor Eric Adams, a retired New York Police Department (NYPD) captain, addressed the congregation as he did at Riveras funeral service.

This morning we gather to mourn the life of Wilbert Mora, our brother officer and brother citizen, Adams said. We reflect on his bravery. We remember his sacrifice.

Adams promised police that his administration would give them the resources to fight this senseless violence.

NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell promoted Mora posthumously to the rank of detective first grade. She promoted Rivera posthumously to the same rank at his funeral.

Moras sister Karina Mora spoke of her brother in Spanish, as did their cousin Clarabelle.

Moras brother Wilson Mora spoke directly to his deceased sibling, reading a letter he wrote to him, beginning with Dear Wilbert. He reminisced about their childhood together.

Mom showered us with love, and you absorbed it like a sponge, he said. I love you baby bro, and I will always miss you.

Troopers from New Castle County, Del., joined thousands of New York police officers on Feb. 2, 2022, to bid farewell to Wilbert Mora, who died after being shot on duty. (Richard Moore/The Epoch Times)

Police officers in attendance included ones from neighboring New Jersey, as well as more distant locales such as New Castle County, Delaware; Fort Worth, Texas; and Saudi Arabia.

Handlers with therapy dogs from the NYPDs Employee Assistance Unit were on hand for anyone who needed them.

Det. Jenny, a therapy dog from the NYPDs Employee Assistance Unit, was available to anyone who needed her at St. Patricks Cathedral in NYC for the funeral of fallen policeman, Wilbert Mora, on Feb. 2, 2022. (Dave Paone/The Epoch Times)

Dozens of police cars from a host of different precincts formed a lengthy motorcade with lights and sirens after the funeral mass started. It ran west to east along West 46th Street across midtown Manhattan, in the direction of Fifth Avenue and St. Patricks Church.

On Jan. 21, Mora, Rivera, and a third policeman responded to a domestic dispute involving a mother and her son in the Harlem section of Manhattan, where Mora and Rivera were shot by the son.

Rivera died on the night of the shooting and Mora, a 27-year-old immigrant from the Dominican Republic, succumbed to his wounds on Jan. 25.
Hyderabad, Feb 3 : The Telangana High Court on Wednesday directed the educational institutions in the state to conduct online classes in view of the current Covid-19 pandemic situation.

Three days after the educational institutions re-opened across the state, the court directed them to conduct online classes along with physical classes for those students who prefer the virtual mode in view of the pandemic situation.

The court gave the directions while hearing petitions relating to the Covid situation in the state.

Despite the Covid threat persisting, the state government announced reopening of the educational institutions from February 1, after extended Sankranti vacation for 23 days.

All schools, colleges and universities re-opened but the attendance remained poor as the state continues to report a large number of Covid cases. With many students and even teachers down with the Covid symptoms, majority of the private schools and colleges have not resumed physical classes.

Even in the government-run institutions, the attendance percentage remained around 42 per cent.

According to the education department, about 23 lakh of 55 lakh students in 38,307 schools attended the offline classes on February 2.

Many parents are still reluctant to send their children to schools due to the persisting Covid threat. Due to spurt in Covid cases, the government had declared early Sankranti vacation from January 8 to 16 and later extended it till January 30.

The state's daily Covid tally remained more than 2,500. On Wednesday, the number of cases stood at 2,646. The Test Positivity Rate (TPR) is about three per cent. However, in Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) limits, the TPR is about 5 per cent. GHMC and surrounding urban districts of Rangareddy and Medchal Malkajgiri continue to report 60 per cent of the daily cases.

Meanwhile, the High Court also asked the authorities to ensure strict implementation of Covid rules in crowded places in Hyderabad. It directed the government to make sure that the norms are adhered to by all in bars and restaurants.

The court also asked the government to take steps to implement Covid rules during Sammakka-Sarakka jatra. Similarly, it issued directions for enforcing Covid curbs during 'Samatha Murthy Sahasrabdhi' celebrations on the outskirts of Hyderabad.

The government was told to make sure that there is no spike in Covid cases once again due to negligence. Advocate General was told to inform the court about the action taken against those violating Covid norms. Directing the government to submit a report on this in two weeks, the court adjourned the hearing to February 20.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Kabul, Feb 3 : For the first time since it took over Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban has opened some public universities, a step towards meeting the international demand of right to education, one of the prime conditions need to have hopes of getting global recognition for the current administration.

While some public universities were reopened in Afghanistan, the attendance of women was very limited. The Taliban have said that women will be allowed to come to universities, as a segregated set-up will be maintained based on gender.

"It is a moment of joy for us that our classes have started," said Zarlashta Haqmal, a law and political science student at Nangarhar University.

"But we are still worried that the Taliban might stop them", he added, expressing fear of continuity of the initiative under the Taliban government.

In the first phase, universities in Laghman, Nangarhar, Kandahar, Nimroz, Farah and Helmand provinces have been opened, while more are scheduled to be opened in the coming days.

Even though the reopening of universities is a positive step, it seems that education under the Taliban leadership has come with some visible requirements and conditions.

Women, who were seen going to the universities were wearing a full-body covered burqa, while the men, who attended the universities were seen wearing traditional tunics aka Salwar Kameez. The university gates were guarded by Taliban fighters, while a machine gun, mounted on a tripod rested on the entrance gate.

The other noteworthy difference was the attitude of those who were seen attending the universities. Most of them were not comfortable in sharing their thoughts about the reopening of the universities, while many said that they had been warned to not speak to the media.

The media was also barred from entering inside the university campuses.

Under the Taliban rule in the past, during its first rule from 1996 to 2001, all educational institutions for girls were shut down.

A similar approach seemed to be in practice since August 2021, when Taliban stormed back to power.

omen and girls have been barred from education under the Taliban rule in the past. The same fears still loom of women may again However, the Taliban leadership maintains that they do not have any objection to education to women, but added that they want classes to be segregated and the curriculum based on Islamic principles.

"We were told that the classes will be held according to the Shariah law. I hope they keep all the courses because society needs them," said Malik Samadi, a student of mathematics.

Khadija Azizi, a student at the Nangarhar University, said she was happy to return but expressed fear of failure to get provision of jobs under the Taliban regime.

"We are also sad because being political and law students, our future is at risk as we wont be able to get jobs under this regime... It is no more pleasant for us because we have lost hope for our future," she added.

But the Taliban initiative to reopen universities is being appreciated broadly.

UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan sated that reopening of universities was an important step as it offered equal access to education for all.

"The reopening of public universities would bode well for the return of girls to school around the country," said Andrew Watkins from US Institute of Peace.

"This is the Taliban taking a step that would be a critical market in moving closer towards recognition," he added.
February 03 : Arjun Kapoor misses his late mother, Mona Shourie Kapoor, on her birth anniversary. The actor paid tribute to her mother and penned a heartbreaking note for her on his Instagram handle today. Mona Shourie Kapoor was producer Boney Kapoor's first wife. She died of cancer in 2012.

Taking to his Instagram handle, Arjun wrote how much he misses her and everything related to her. He also wrote how feels incomplete in her absence. Sharing her picture on her birth anniversary, Arjun wrote, Happy birthday Mom. I miss seeing your name on my phone. I miss coming back home to you. I miss seeing you & @anshulakapoor talk away endlessly. I miss you maa... I miss saying ur name I miss your smell I miss being immature & having you sort me out I miss being a child I miss smiling with you I miss being ok I miss feeling whole because I had you be my side... I am incomplete without you I just hope this version of me is still making you proud as u watch over us. Love you Your flawed over honest chubby cheeks son...

Many of his fans and friends sent him love in the comments section. Anushka Sharma, Tiger Shroff, Neha Dhupia, Bhumi Pednekar, Tahira Kashyap, Shweta Tiwari, Radhika Madan and Ayesha Shroff showered him with love as they dropped heart emojis on his post.

Arjun's sister Anshula also penned an emotional note for her mom on her Instagram page. She wrote, Happy Birthday Ma. That feeling of I want my mom really doesnt have an age limit. And grief has no time limit either. Its been 10 years, but on most days it still takes so much work just to feel okay.

Anshula also praised Arjun and added, "Ma, I hope youre looking at us from wherever you are and youre proud of @arjunkapoor and me. He makes me proud every single day, and on days like today when my heart breaks a little extra, knowing I have him makes the cracks heal a little faster. Dahi kadhi and rice doesnt taste the same without you Ma, but Im going to toast to you and have some for lunch anyway. Love you. Youre the most precious piece of my heart. #AlwaysAndForever."

In an earlier interview, Arjun had said that his mom had passed away just a month-and-a-half before his debut film Ishaqzaade was released. He had said, I miss my mom everyday. Thats something that wont ever come back to me. Just when I was going to stand up on my own two feet, my backbone snapped.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Arjun was last seen in Pavan Kirpalanis Bhoot Police alongside Saif Ali Khan Jacqueline Fernandez, and Yami Gautam Dhar.

Currently, the actor is working on his next film, Kuttey. He will also be seen in Mohit Suris Ek Villian Returns alongside John Abraham, Disha Patani and Tara Sutaria. The film is scheduled for worldwide cinema release on July 8, 2022.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday said that the government has taken up the issue of pending salaries of Indian workers with the Gulf countries.

Responding to a question about loss of wages of Indians working abroad, the Minister said that the data of pending salaries was not available but he took up the matter with Gulf countries. "Would like to assure that employment is retained, wages are paid, and welfare is ensured," Jaishankar said.

He also said that the government's objective is to get as many workers as possible back to work and he has been in touch with the concerned authorities and also through Ambassadors in the Gulf countries.

Jaishankar also informed the House that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also in touch with the Gulf governments and had 16 telephonic conversations with the authorities. He said he himself visited these countries and Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan has also visited the gulf countries and had meetings with the authorities there.

He also informed that a corpus of Rs 47 crore under the Indian Community Welfare Fund has been created for helping Indian workers there.

In case of the death of an Indian worker, the Ministry of External Affairs through the Ambassador posted there, tries to get ex-gratia compensation paid to the worker's family from the local government or the employer company.

Earlier, AITMC member Santanu Sen raised the issue of a wrong map on the World Health Organisation (WHO) site to which Chairman M. Venkaiah asked the EAM to look into.

The TMC member said that as a doctor he checks the WHO COVID-19 site for data. The map on the site showed parts of Jammu and Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh as outside India. He says the government should have been vigilant, when they are using Pegasus to spy on their own ministers, Sen quipped.

Responding to the question on the number of women judges in the country, Law and Justice Minister Kiren Rijiju informs the House, out of a total 34 judges in the Supreme Court, we have for the first time four women judges. Out of 1,098 judges in High Courts, we have 83 women judges.

"We have been stressing time and again that while recommending names, preferences may be given to women, backward classes, scheduled caste and scheduled tribe," Rijiju further said.

Responding to a question that there was no woman judge in the Patna High Court, he said that the Ministry has requested all high courts to send bigger number of women for appointment of judges in the high courts of the country in future.

BJP member Vikas Mahatme raised the issue of tax collected through sale of alcohol and said that the states are getting addicted to tax being collected from this source.

Describing it as 'Sin Tax items', Mahatme said, "The tax being collected should be increased. Delhi and Maharashtra have brought in various changes including home delivery in Delhi and sale in malls in Maharashtra. State governments are getting addicted to tax collection from this item."
Kazakhstan says it has launched nearly 100 investigations into alleged illegal detentions and rights abuses of those arrested during and after the deadly anti-government protests last month, heeding the demands of domestic and international human rights groups.

Answering a call from Human Rights Watch earlier this week to thoroughly investigate the complaints, the Kazakh Foreign Ministry said in a February 3 statement that it would meet the request of the international watchdog, which echoed similar demands from other human rights groups.

"According to the data from the Prosecutor-General's Office, authorities have to date launched 98 criminal cases concerning complaints of the use of illegal methods of investigation and other violations of the rights of citizens," a Foreign Ministry statement said, adding that the tightly controlled former Soviet republic's authorities "are ready and willing to thoroughly review each individual case raised by the public in Kazakhstan and internationally."

Kazakh authorities initially said the number of people arrested during and after the protests was between 10,000 and 12,000, though most of have been released.

Human rights groups in Kazakhstan say the number of people still under arrest across the country because of the protests is currently about 1,000, many of whom are being beaten and tortured in custody.

On February 3, dozens of relatives of those under arrest gathered at a local human rights organization in the capital of the Almaty region, Taldyqorghan, demanding their loved ones be released and saying that they were being tortured.

A peaceful protest in the Central Asian country's western region of Manghystau on January 2 over a fuel-price hike led to mass anti-government protests across the country and ended with deadly shootings in the largest city of Almaty and elsewhere.

During the protests, the authorities switched off the Internet and restricted mobile-phone operations for five days.

President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev blamed rights activists and independent journalists for "inciting" the protests, which led to the arrest of several reporters in towns and cities across the country.

Toqaev said in the wake of the protests that "20,000 extremists trained in foreign terrorist camps" attacked Almaty, but he has never provided any evidence to support the claim.

As the unrest spread, Toqaev requested help from the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization, which sent troops to help "stabilize" the situation.

Toqaev also publicly said then that he had ordered security forces "to shoot to kill without warning."

Kazakh authorities have said that 227 people, including 19 law enforcement officers, were killed across the country.

Human rights groups say the exact number of people killed during the unrest may be much higher, providing evidence proving that there were peaceful demonstrators and persons who had nothing to do with the protests among those killed by law enforcement and military personnel.

On February 2, activist Marat Turymbetov wrote on Facebook that Almaty city authorities had rejected activists' request for permission to hold a public event on February 13 to commemorate those killed during the protests.

Turymbetov said the event will be held even though official permission was not granted.
Student activism groups across university campuses in Ghana, the Coalition of Concerned University Students (CoCUS), will today, Thursday, February 3 embark on a peaceful demonstration.

The protest by the Coalition is to register their displeasure with the governments failure to end the protracted strike by the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG).

Todays protest dubbed #StudentsAreSufferingDemo! is expected to begin at 6 am from the campus of the University of Ghana, Legon, through the Liberation Road to the Jubilee House and end at parliament.

The Coalition noted that it will submit a petition to the presidency and parliament for urgent consideration of the government and subsequent execution, during the protest.

A statement issued on Tuesday, 2 February 2022, signed by all the conveners of the coalition, urged all protesters to be law-abiding during the protest and to avoid behaviours that contravene the laws such as open smoking of "Indian hemp, indecent exposure in public, harassing of ladies and citizens, bumping of vehicles etc.

 classfmonline.com
Editor's Note Emma Sullivan, a freshman at Oberlin College, grew up in a small Massachusetts town where controversial topics were not discussed and teenage voices were seemingly dismissed. She reached out to the Chronicle and Transcript newspaper and founded its Teen Beat column, writing monthly opinion pieces on local and national issues from a teenagers perspective. She then ventured off to the Midwest for college and became an opinion writer for The Oberlin Review, where she strives to challenge the conventional collegiate attitudes and start necessary conversations. She will be spending her winter break writing a weekly opinion column for The Berkshire Eagle.

Picture a 14-year-old mingling at her first high school party. She is approached by a popular boy from school  the one she has had a crush on for the past year. He asks her if she would like to snort a little heroin with him. Though shes been lectured numerous times by her parents and health teachers about the dangers of opioids, she suddenly feels the pressure to conform.

Before she knows it, she feels the rush: Her skin flushes, her limbs grow heavy and she collapses. Time is of the essence. If people around her are not equipped with naloxone, a powerful opioid antagonist that can reverse overdoses, she will die.

No parent should ever have to face this scenario, but it has sadly become our reality. Since 1999, overdose deaths have increased 500 percent amongst 15- to 24-year-olds nationwide. One in four Massachusetts teens report having misused or abused a prescription drug at least once, and two in three adults nationwide treated for opioid use disorder started abusing opioids when they were younger than 25.

As of March 14, 2016, Massachusetts has required its public high schools to educate students on the dangers of substance abuse. However, opioid overdose deaths continue to rise, proving that these educational efforts alone are not enough to curb the opioid epidemic. If Massachusetts school administrators really want to reduce the student opioid overdose death rate, they need to teach high schoolers how to administer naloxone  commonly known by the brand name Narcan  so that they can possibly save their fellow classmates lives.

Research shows that equipping nonmedical personnel with Narcan and the necessary training saves lives. When Wilkes County, N.C., experienced a surge in overdose mortalities in 2007, health officials created Project Lazarus, a nonprofit organization that focuses on addiction education, data collection and, most importantly, training in how to administer Narcan. As part of this mission, Project Lazarus provides Narcan rescue kits for families which include overdose prevention literature, two doses of nasal Narcan and instructions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have cited Project Lazarus as a success story in preventing opioid overdoses among rural Americans, noting that more than 200 overdoses were reversed in North Caroline from August 2013 to November 2014. Thats 200 extra lives saved by Narcan. Imagine how many more students lives can be saved in Berkshire County if they are equipped with Narcan.

Pittsfield Police, other Berkshire County first responders to carry Narcan. Addiction experts say it will save lives A push by the Berkshire Overdose Addiction Prevention Collaborative will bring Narcan to more than a dozen additional first responder departments across the Berkshires.

Some might ask why we should provide students with Narcan when police officers, EMS personnel and hospital staff are trained in Narcan administration. During opioid overdose, respiratory arrest results in a lack of oxygen flow to the brain, which means time counts. In rural regions, like some corners of Berkshire County, an ambulance or the nearest hospital can be far away, and it could be hours before contact with a medical professional. If an overdose victim does not receive timely medical assistance, they could suffer brain injury or death.

For this reason, the CDC and the Office of the Surgeon General recommend that nonmedical personnel also have access to Narcan. Its important for parents to know that if their teenager administers Narcan to an individual who hasnt actually overdosed, it will cause no harm and produce no high. It is nonnarcotic and nonaddictive. For these reasons, anyone can ask for a naloxone rescue kit over the counter at any Massachusetts pharmacy without a prescription.

Narcan is not only safe but easy to administer  so easy that in rural Carter County, Tenn., health officials have begun training children as young as 6 years old to administer Narcan. Carter Countys Drug Prevention coalition has given Narcan training to an estimated 600 children and teenagers. If 6-year-olds in Tennessee can capably learn to administer Narcan, so can Berkshire County teenagers.

Opponents of making opioid antagonists more widely available argue that if we equip teenagers with Narcan and tell them that their friends can easily save them with just a quick spritz, then they will be more likely to abuse opioids. Their fears are unfounded, however, and show a lack of understanding on how Narcan works and the teenage mindset. Narcan reverses opioid overdoses for only a short period of time  30 to 90 minutes. It is neither a quick fix nor a substitute for medical assistance; it is simply intended to buy time to get to a hospital.

So as long as school health instructors drive this point home, teenagers will not view Narcan as a reason to start experimenting with opioids. If anything, teaching students how to administer Narcan will make the risks of opioid abuse seem all the more real. Its one thing to be told not to take opioids because theyre dangerous; its another thing to be shown how to save a fellow students life in case that person overdoses from opioids. As a teenager myself, I can assure you that the latter is far more effective in preventing recreational opioid use. For this reason, Project Lazarus not only equips people with Narcan but also educates them. As a result, overdoses decreased by 69 percent between 2009 and 2011 in Wilkes County.

Massachusetts needs to provide funding for public high schools to equip students with Narcan administration training and comprehensive education on opioid abuse. Until then, high school administrators should seriously consider implementing Narcan administration training as part of their health curriculums.

Every life lost to opioid abuse is one life too many.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Unpaid for the last three months, the medical staff, including senior and junior doctors, and nursing staff of the East Delhi Municipal Corporation-run Swami Dayanand hospital have been threatened with termination of their services if they continue with their protest over pending salaries.

"In view of the prevailing health situation of Covid pandemic, all the junior residents and senior residents are hereby directed to join back their duty by 9 a.m. on February 3, 2022. Otherwise, we will be forced to terminate your services and appoint new JR/SR. This is essential to run the basic health services in the hospital," reads an office order of the hospital.

The medical staff of the EDMC-run hospital have been protesting over their demands of immediate release of pending salary from February 1. All the services, including emergency, have been stopped in the hospital.

Talking to IANS, Dr Atul Jain, RDA President of the hospital said, "We are asking for our rights only. We don't have any demands from the administration. We have asked for updated salary release and written assurance of regularisation of monthly salary and all pending arrears." Dr Jain said that we have battled the worst Covid waves, but we are not even getting paid our rightful compensation of our salaries.

"The EDMC Commissioner has assured us two months' salary by April, which is totally unacceptable. By April, another four months' salary will be due. We have left with no choice but to protest for our rights", Dr Jain added further.

He said that the issue of salary payments was raised with the hospital administration several times but it was never addressed.

The Federation of All India Medical Association (FIAMA) also has supported the doctors' protest. "Corona Warriors of Swami Dayanand Hospital Delhi which is run by MCD are protesting against administration for their basic rights. They haven't received their salary for past 4 Months", said FIAMA in a tweet.
On January 24th, an F-35C was los t when the pilot tried to land the plane on the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier. Instead, he slammed into the flight deck and then fell off into the sea. Fortunately, the pilot ejected and was rescued. Other seven sailors were lightly injured during this accident. But that was only the beginning of the problem.Since the F-35C is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, it carries classified technologies that should be protected at all costs. On February 2nd, the Japan Coast Guard issued a NAVAREA (Navigational Warning) for salvage operations in the South China Sea until further notice. But that recovery operation will be challenging since the maximum depth there is 16,457 feet (5,016 m).The F-35C integrates advanced stealth technologies and is one of the most agile supersonic aircraft in the world. It is the plane that redefined the multi-role fighter abilities. It can fly with up to 1.6 Mach and has a 2,200 km range (1,200 nm). The 51.5-ft (15.7-m) long aircraft has a 43-ft (13.1-m) wingspan and can withstand 7.5 g. The price of one of these beauties is about $100 million, and this latest version entered service in 2019.The U.S. 7th fleet has one salvage ship, the USNS Salvor, that could retrieve the aircraft from the bottom of the sea and, if it succeeds, it will break its own record. The same vessel retrieved a Boeing Vertol (UH-64D Sea Knight) from 17,251 feet (5,258 m), while the world-record depth recovery was performed in 2019 by the deep-sea research ship RV Petrel.On the other hand, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it has no interest in the fifth-generation aircraft lost by the U.S. Navy. The search and rescue operations are underway.
That was a very difficult and fraught time in our city, Ms. Lightfoot said. And I think that many people carry the trauma of that moment and others like it with them to this very day.

In the aftermath of Mr. McDonalds murder, before becoming mayor, Ms. Lightfoot led a panel that found a pattern of systemic racism in the Chicago Police Department. She said there had been improvements since then, including in police training and oversight, though she acknowledged that more needed to be done.

There has been some change  not enough, she said. Not enough by any stretch of the imagination.

Mr. Van Dyke, the first Chicago police officer to be convicted in an on-duty murder in almost 50 years, was found guilty of second-degree murder and 16 counts of aggravated battery with a firearm, one count for each bullet he fired. Prosecutors requested a sentence of at least 18 years in prison, but Judge Vincent Gaughan sentenced him to less than half of that.

Judge Gaughan sentenced Mr. Van Dyke only on the murder count; a penalty for the aggravated battery counts could have resulted in a much longer prison term.

William Calloway, a community organizer who in 2015 pressed for the release of the video of Mr. McDonalds murder, described the response to the shooting and conviction as a watershed moment for Chicago.




During the December 2021 quarter, the India formulation sales grew by 15% yoy, US formulations grew 6% at $397 million while the emerging markets formulations business grew by 17% yoy. Even the rest of the world saw a marginal 3% growth in top line on a yoy basis.



Over a 9 month period, the India business was the fastest growing at 26% as India traction built up substantially in the last couple of years. The board of Sun Pharma has also declared an interim dividend of Rs.7 per share. Sun Pharma Ltd reported 11.61% yoy growth in total sales revenues for the Dec-21 quarter on consolidated basis at Rs9,863cr. On a sequential basis, the revenues were up by 2.46%.During the December 2021 quarter, the India formulation sales grew by 15% yoy, US formulations grew 6% at $397 million while the emerging markets formulations business grew by 17% yoy. Even the rest of the world saw a marginal 3% growth in top line on a yoy basis.Over a 9 month period, the India business was the fastest growing at 26% as India traction built up substantially in the last couple of years. The board of Sun Pharma has also declared an interim dividend of Rs.7 per share.

For the Dec-21 quarter, the operating profits were up on a yoy basis by 9.52% at Rs2,053cr. During the quarter, there was solid traction in EBITDA growth by 8% at Rs2,558cr while the EBITDA margins came in at a healthy 26.1% in the quarter.



Sun Pharma reported sharp growth in the India business where it dominates with nearly 8.2% market share. In the US, Taro reported lower net profits by 20% yoy on price pressure in the generics business.



Operating margins fell marginally from 21.21% in Dec-20 quarter to 20.81% in the Dec-21 quarter. Operating margins were lower on a sequential basis by 21 bps.

Net Profit after tax (PAT) for the Dec-21 quarter was up 11.14% yoy at Rs2,059cr on the back of the robust operating performance getting transmitted to the bottom line. R&D expenses at Rs547cr were robust at well above 5% of sales revenues. In the first nine months of the fiscal till date,



Sun Pharma has repaid $254 million of debt, reducing its financial risk further with internal resources. The API business continues to be under pressure, but that has been the trend globally.



PAT margins fell marginally from 20.96% in the Dec-20 quarter to 20.87% in the Dec-21 quarter. The PAT margins were also lower on a sequential basis.
Researchers say some patients could benefit from being given party drug

Two-thirds of patients given drug don't have suicidal thoughts three days later

Ketamine is short-term effective treatment for some suicidal patients in hospital

Giving suicidal patients ketamine could save thousands of lives each year, a study suggests.

French researchers say the illegal party drug can alleviate suicidal thoughts within days.

Doctors tested the therapy on 160 patients who were admitted to hospital because of their severe suicidal thoughts.

Almost two-thirds of the participants on ketamine were free of their ideations after three days. For comparison, the figure was slightly less than a third among patients on a placebo.

Writing in the British Medical Journal, the team claimed the drug seemed to work by relieving psychological pain.

It is not the first time ketamine, also used as a horse tranquilliser, has shown promise in treating mental health conditions.

It is also being trialled for depression and available at some private clinics in the UK after a raft of studies suggested it cut the rate of depressive relapse.

However, the University of Montpellier team noted the benefits in fighting off suicidal thoughts were short-lasting.

And they warned there is a risk patients could become hooked on the drug, which can cause users to feel relaxed or anxious.

Nearly 6,000 Brits and 48,000 Americans die by suicide each year, with attempted suicides thought to be 10 to 20 times higher than these figures.

The graph shows the change in rates of suicidal remission (a complete absence of suicidal thoughts) in the 72-hours after patients were given an IV infusion of either ketamine (purple line) or saline (yellow line). Researchers found 63 per cent of patients in the ketamine group had no suicidal thoughts by day three, compared to 31.6 per cent of those in the placebo group. And the treatment kicked in rapidly, with 43.8 per cent of patients feeling better within two hours, compared to 7.3 per cent who didn't get the drug

The University of Montpellier researchers found that six weeks after receiving the IV infusion of either ketamine (purple line) or saline (yellow line), 69.5 per cent of the ketamine group had not had suicidal thoughts, compared to 56.3 per cent of the placebo group. However, the scientists said was not a statistically significant difference

French researchers say illegal party drug ketamine (pictured) can alleviate suicidal thoughts within days

FROM PARTY DRUG TO BIPOLAR TREATMENT: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT KETAMINE Ketamine is a powerful general anaesthetic that is used to stop humans and animals experiencing pain during operations. It started being used as a party drug in the late 2000s, with people taking it before raves for a more intense experience. What are the side effects? Ketamine causes a loss of feeling and paralysis of the muscles. It can also lead to people experiencing a distortion of reality, which many call entering the 'k-hole'. This is when people believe they have spoken to God or a higher power, which can lead to addiction as they crave that experience. Ketamine may also cause people to feel incapable of moving, experience hallucinations or lead to panic attacks, confusion and memory loss. Regular users can seriously damage their bladders, which may need to be surgically removed. Other risks include a raised heart rate and blood pressure. Paralysis of the muscles can leave people vulnerable to hurting themselves, while not feeling pain properly can cause them to underestimate any damage. Many claim ketamine withdrawal is worse than any other drug, with some feeling so depressed they contemplate suicide. If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the Samaritans here. How is it taken and what is the law around it? For medical use ketamine is liquid but the 'street' drug is normally a grainy, white powder, with one gram costing around 20. As a class B drug in the UK, possession of ketamine can result in people facing up to five years in jail, while supplying it could mean up to 14 years in prison. Both cases may result in people facing an unlimited fine. Source: Talk to Frank Advertisement

Drugs such as antidepressants can reduce the risk of suicide in depressed patients but don't kick in for several weeks and don't work for everyone.

Psychotherapy  a form of counselling also used  takes several sessions to be effective, while there is limited evidence that admission to hospital works.

Previous studies have shown ketamine can tackle depressive symptoms and suicidal ideas after a single dose.

But the researchers said the experiments were poorly carried out, meaning further evidence was needed.

To determine wither ketamine really benefitted suicidal patients, the team recruited 156 adults hospitalised between 2015 and 2019.

All of the patients were either bipolar, had a depressive disorder or other psychiatric conditions and were admitted due to suicidal thoughts.

They were given two IV infusions over a 24-hour period. Eighty-three got 0.5mg/kg of ketamine, while the others were given a placebo alongside standard care, which includes individual and group therapy sessions.

Partygoers who end up in a 'K hole' often take doses above 200mg.

Medics measured the patients suicidal inclinations before they received the therapy and hours later. They were also tracked three days later.

They found 63 per cent of patients in the ketamine group had no suicidal thoughts by day three, compared to 31.6 per cent of those in the placebo group.

And the treatment kicked in rapidly, with 43.8 per cent of the patients feeling better within two hours, compared to 7.3 per cent who didn't get the drug.

However, the researchers warned that the effect varied depending on the patient's mental disorder.

The findings show 84.6 per cent of bipolar patients given ketamine no longer had suicidal thoughts within three days, compared to 28 per cent of people with the condition in the placebo group.

And the team said the side effects, which included nausea, dizziness and blurred visions, were mild and short-lived.

However, they noted the ketamine treatment was less effective in the patients with conditions other than bipolar.

Those with depression who got ketamine were just slightly more likely to recover (42.3 per cent) than those given the saline drip (35.7 per cent).

Meanwhile, seven in 10 of those with other mental conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, felt better within three days, compared to 56.3 per cent of those who weren't given the drug.

And the team noted that the long-term benefits of the drug could not be confirmed.

Six weeks later, 69.5 per cent of the ketamine group had not had suicidal thoughts, compared to 56.3 per cent of the placebo group, which the scientists said was not a statistically significant difference.

And 8.2 per cent of patients given ketamine attempted suicide in the subsequent month-and-a-half, compared to 9.8 per cent in the placebo group.
DURHAM, N.C., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- James Scott Farrin workers' compensation attorney Ali Overby has achieved a certification held by fewer than 1% of all attorneys licensed to practice in North Carolina. Of the more than 31,200 attorneys licensed to practice in the state, fewer than 160 are Board Certified in workers' compensation by the North Carolina State Bar.* In total, Overby and ten other firm attorneys have met the heavy experience and skill requirements needed to be called North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialists in their fields.

North Carolina State Bar Board Certification is an indication that the lawyer has intentionally focused his or her legal practice to improve the proficiency and quality of the lawyer's legal services and to stay current in the specialty field. There are approximately 1,350 specialists in the state overall  about 160 in workers' compensation, with 10 of them at the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin. The firm has also been recognized by U.S. News  Best Lawyers as a 2022 "Best Law Firm" for workers' compensation in the greater Raleigh area.*

Overby joined the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin in 2015, and enjoys being a resource for injured workers. "I love to use what I learned to help guide people. It's so rewarding to ease their burden and assist them during such a trying time," she said.

*Figures provided by NC State Bar as of 1/22. For "Best Law Firm" standards of inclusion, visit https://www.bestlawyers.com/.

ABOUT THE LAW OFFICES OF JAMES SCOTT FARRIN



The Law Offices of James Scott Farrin is one of the largest personal injury firms in North Carolina and has served over 50,000 injured people since 1997. Operating from 16 offices in NC and one in SC, many of the firm's 50+ accomplished attorneys are recognized professionals in their fields. The firm focuses on providing quality legal services to as many people as possible in the following practice areas: personal injury, car accidents, workers' compensation, nursing home abuse, whistleblowing, defective products, eminent domain, mass torts, class actions, and Social Security Disability.

Offices in Durham (main), Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro, NC and Greenville, SC. Attorney J. Gabe Talton: 280 South Mangum St., Suite 400, Durham, NC.

Contact Information:

David Chamberlin

280 S. Mangum Street

Suite 400

Durham, NC 27701

866-900-7078

https://www.farrin.com/

SOURCE Law Offices of James Scott Farrin
In that specific episode he drives an MGA Cabriolet that, unsurprisingly, had a Lada engine! As he smartly points out, this is a perfect example of what followed after the communists took over. Everything rather good was replaced by strange Soviet solutions. Government officials and employees got new Lada and Moskvitch cars, but the rest of the population had to do with what they had before Castro. That planned economy didn`t turn out very well in the end for the many.Cuban families were forced to use horses instead of cars like Alfa Romeo or Cadillac. They were promised Russian rockets instead and help that never really came into their favor.One man interviewed by Clarkson, named Gonzalo Fernandez, tells him that he had to hide his European car. Foreseeing what was going to happen, he understood that having that vehicle could make him a target.After the Castro dust settled and the U.S. halted trade, the Cubans had to mend their imported cars themselves. This was especially hard to do since new parts couldn`t be ordered. Clarkson shows how Hector, another car enthusiast, cleverly found a way to make brake fluid from brown sugar. His wife was also working to mend cars, but she was responsible for making the hood for a Caddy  by using nothing else but some paper and a pen.Cubans had to live a tough life, but their creativity and passion got them going despite what was happening around them. Clarkson ends his Motorworld episode underlining that sometimes it'ss best to be happy about the place you are in, rather than complain about minor daily inconveniences.
Review bombing is the activity of bombarding a product, business, or service with critical reviews, generally in bad faith, by a large number of individuals (or a few irate people with several accounts). This may be disastrous for a small or local firm that relies on word of mouth. Google claims that millions of reviews are written on Maps every day, and it has detailed some of the techniques it takes to combat review bombing.

"Our team is devoted to keeping user-created material on Maps reliable and based on real-world experience," claimed the Google Maps team in a video. This effort protects companies against abuse and fraud while also ensuring that evaluations are valuable to users. Its content restrictions were created with the goal of "keeping inaccurate, fraudulent, and nasty reviews off our site."

In a blog post, Ian Leader, product lead of user-generated content at Google Maps, stated that machine learning plays an essential part in the moderating process. The moderation systems, which are Google's "first line of defence since they are strong at recognising trends," scrutinise each review for potential policy infractions. They consider the substance of the review, the history of a user or business account, and whether there has been any anomalous behaviour associated with a location (like spikes in one-star or five-star reviews).

How does Google Maps combat review bombing?

Also, Leader explains about the machines getting rid of the vast majority of fake and fraudulent content before any user sees it. The process takes just a few seconds, and if the models don't see any problem with a review, it'll swiftly be available for other users to read. Although, the systems are not without flaws.

Ian Leader stated, for example, the word 'gay' is occasionally used as a pejorative phrase, it is not permitted in Google reviews. However, we educate our machine learning models that it is solely used in hate speech which may eliminate ratings that advocate a homosexual business owner or an LGBTQ+ safe place incorrectly. As a result, the Maps team frequently conducts quality testing and further training to educate the algorithms on the numerous ways specific terms and phrases are used to strike a compromise between deleting damaging information and maintaining valuable ratings on Maps.

There is also a staff of people that manually assess reviews that have been highlighted by companies and individuals. In addition to eliminating objectionable reviews, Google suspends user accounts and initiates legal action in some situations. Furthermore, the team works proactively to detect possible misuse issues.

Google often adjusts its rules in response to events around the globe. When businesses and governments began requiring confirmation of COVID-19 vaccination before allowing individuals to access premises. The leader states on the extra safeguards in place to eliminate Google reviews that criticise a business on its health and safety standards or for complying with a vaccine requirement.

Google Maps isn't the only site worried about review bombing. Yelp users are barred from slamming companies that require customers to be vaccinated and wear masks. The 2021 Trust and Safety report which was issued eliminated more than 15,500 reviews last year for breaking COVID-19 guidelines.

Netflix dealt with review bombing concerns before it destroyed user reviews. Both Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic have taken efforts to remedy the issue.
De lierbedienaar van de SAR-helikopter @NhvHelicopters maakte deze beelden van de evacuatie. Alle 18 bemanningsleden van het vrachtschip zijn door 3 helikopters van boord gehaald (inclusief een heli van de Belgische Kustwacht @agentschapMDK). #kustwacht #nhv pic.twitter.com/3o9z3CXzki  Kustwacht Nederland (@Kustwacht_nl) February 1, 2022

The Julietta D bulk carrier collided with the Pechora Star chemical tanker near Ijmuiden, then drifted towards the coast of Scheveningen. After the collision, it started taking on water, so the 18 crew members had to be evacuated via helicopter, facing the harsh weather conditions, gCaptain reports. The crew was successfully evacuated, and the tanker didnt lose any cargo either.While continuing to drift, the crewless ship then allided with an offshore platform foundation in the vicinity of the Hollandse Kust Zuid windfarm. It was a real race to try to bring the loose vessel back to shore after that. A first towing connection was only achieved in the evening when the Sovereign, a massive Boskalis tug, managed to prevent the Julietta D from going further on the Dutch coast.Later that evening, a second tug established an additional connection, but it soon had to be severed because of the very rough sea conditions. Finally, on February 2, a second large Boskalis tug, called Manta, was able to secure a towing connection. According to SWZ Maritime, the tug also came fully loaded with salvage equipment and transported an additional team of rescuers to the site. Apparently, one of the crew members onboard the Sovereign was injured, but its unclear how serious the injuries were.This significant salvage effort required assistance from The Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution and the Belgian Coast Guard, together with Boskalis SMIT Salvage. And it was all worth it  the drifting Julietta D is now finally in the port of Rotterdam, and none of the crew members onboard were injured.
By Kate Abnett

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Poland breached European Union law when extending the life of its Turow lignite mine without assessing the environmental impact, an adviser to Europe's top court said on Thursday, siding with a challenge brought by the Czech government.

The adviser's opinion came as leaders of the two EU neighbours were set to meet amid reports they could sign a deal to resolve the long-running dispute over Poland's extension of mining at Turow, which produces lignite, or brown coal.

The mine feeds a power plant important to Polish energy supply but the Czech Republic says it is damaging its communities and environment.

In the non-binding opinion on Thursday, Priit Pikamae, advocate general at the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), said Poland had breached EU environmental law by extending the life of the mine until 2026 without conducting an environmental impact assessment.

"A single extension by six years of a mining consent constitutes a project requiring an assessment of its environmental effects," the court said in a statement.

Pikamae also said Poland has breached EU law by being late to notify the Czech Republic and the public that the mine extension had been granted - doing so five months after the extension had been confirmed.

EU court opinions are non-binding, but the court typically agrees with them in the ruling that follows in the coming months.

Poland has vowed to keep the disputed coal mine running despite being hit with an order to pay a 500,000 euro ($585,550) daily penalty to the European Commission for defying an earlier ruling to halt operations.

(Reporting by Kate Abnett; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
When David and Kristine Oppligers two sons grew up and moved out, the couple decided it was finally time to leave Michigan. Mr. Oppliger, who had spent a few years after college on the East Side of Manhattan during the late 1970s and early 80s, was eager to return to the city. And Mrs. Oppliger was ready to try something different  a new adventure, she said.

So around five years ago, the couple rented a small, sunny, street-facing one-bedroom in the West 70s  the sweet spot of the Upper West Side, Mr. Oppliger said.

It was an old building with no amenities, but it was fine, he said. There were no bugs and no obnoxious dogs, until the last year. Were older and I dont want to deal with barking noise.

Mr. Oppliger, 65, is a lawyer in the field of public-sector procurement. Mrs. Oppliger, 59, is a middle-school special-education teacher. The couple wanted to invest in a more permanent place  a larger one-bedroom with natural light and a good view  in the same West Side sweet spot.

[Did you recently buy or rent a home in the New York metro area? We want to hear from you. Email: thehunt@nytimes.com]

We wanted to walk into an apartment and go, Wow, we are in New York City, Mr. Oppliger said.

The neighborhoods prewar co-op buildings were charming, but sometimes seemed ancient, to the point that the Oppligers feared serious maintenance issues. They werent prepared to renovate, and were indifferent about having a doorman and most other amenities.

They declined one place with a low monthly maintenance (in the $400s) because it overlooked Columbus Avenue and suffered from traffic noise. But they connected with the listing agent there, Joan DeRoche, an associate broker at Compass, and enlisted her help.

In their budget of up to $800,000, the Oppligers found views of alleyways, shafts and walls at close range. It was a typical one-bedroom they wanted, Ms. DeRoche said. You pay for light.

Other places had unsavory features like low ceilings, insufficient storage and kitchens in the living room.

Among their options:
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The rear admiral leading the USS Harry S. Truman has said 'we are ready to operate anywhere' after the aircraft carrier was placed under NATO command for the first time since the end of the Cold War amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

Rear Admiral Curt Renshaw said while he would not speculate about what would come next after exercises, dubbed Neptune Strike 2022, in the Adriatic Sea come to an end this week the strike group would operate 'wherever we are needed most'.

The strike group is in the Adriatic for coordinated maritime manoeuvres, anti-submarine warfare training and long-range strike training until February 4.

The move comes as President Joe Biden said yesterday his decision to deploy 3,000 American troops to Eastern Europe amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine was 'totally consistent' with what he had communicated to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Yesterday Rear Admiral Curt Renshaw said: 'The decisions that are made about where a strike group from the United States deploys is really at the Secretary of Defense level.

'But we are ready to operate anywhere and we planned to be on an extended deployment when we left Norfolk (Virginia) and we plan to be able to operate wherever we are needed most.'

The USS Harry S. Truman (GV of the aircraft carrier in the Adriatic Sea) is currently carrying out exercises, dubbed Neptune Strike 2022, in the Adriatic Sea

The aircraft carrier has been placed under NATO command for the first time since the end of the Cold War amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine

The strike group is carrying out coordinated maritime manoeuvres, anti-submarine warfare training and long-range strike training. Pictured: The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely alongside the USS Harry S. Truman in the Mediterranean Sea last month

Rear Admiral Curt Renshaw (pictured), commander of the aircraft carrier, said while he would not speculate about what would come next the strike group would operate 'wherever we are needed most'

Last week Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the exercises, which began this Monday, had been planned since 2020 and were not in response to rising tensions with Russia.

Kirby said officials considered whether to carry on with the exercise because of the ongoing tensions, and had decided to move ahead.

He said the exercises were not planned in anticipation of Russian making a move on Ukraine and were 'not designed against any of the kinds of scenarios that might happen with respect to Ukraine'.

Kirby also explained that the exercises were designed to show 'the continual and steady progression of alliance cohesion in a high end and dynamic environment'.

He said 'It's designed to demonstrate NATO's ability to integrate the high-end maritime strike capabilities of an aircraft carrier strike group to support the deterrence and defense of the alliance.

'All of the training events will highlight the continual and steady progression of alliance cohesion in a high end and dynamic environment.'

Meanwhile NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg wrote on Twitter: 'A strong sign of transatlantic unity.

'I welcome that the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group will come under NATO command for exercise Neptune Strike in the Mediterranean. NATO will always do what is necessary to protect and defend all Allies.'

The plan had initially been for the USS Harry S. Truman carrier and five other accompanying ships to move to the Central Command area, which includes northeast Africa, the Middle East and South Asia.

But U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has now ordered the fleet to stay in the European operational area.

The Pentagon said the change of plan reflected the need for a permanent presence in Europe with the hope of providing reassurance of the collective defense commitment to the Allies that NATO provides.

But the NATO exercises come at a time of rising tensions with Moscow and fears Russia will invade Ukraine.

And as the Pentagon looks for ways to reassure jittery NATO allies following Russia's deployment of over 100,000 forces near Ukraine, the Truman is a powerful symbol of U.S. military might and NATO capabilities in a region increasingly on edge.

The Pentagon has said that the exercises, which began this Monday, had been planned since 2020 and were not in response to tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Pictured: A military plane lands onboard aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman

The Pentagon also said officials considered whether to carry on with the exercise because of the ongoing tensions, and had decided to move ahead. Pictured: A member of the US Navy walks on the aircraft carrier

A U.S. Navy sailor operates onboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman, in the Adriatic Sea, on February 2

The plan had initially been for the USS Harry S. Truman carrier and five other accompanying ships to move to the Central Command area, which includes northeast Africa, the Middle East and South Asia

Last week U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered the fleet of the aircraft carrier to stay in the European operational area

Pictured: U.S. Navy sailors operate onboard aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman, in the Adriatic Sea amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine

Pictured: The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely breaks away from the USS Harry S. Truman on January 22

Yesterday President Biden said his decision to deploy troops to Eastern Europe amid rising tensions was 'totally consistent' with what he had communicated to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

'As long as he's acting aggressively, we are going to make sure we reassure our NATO allies in Eastern Europe that we're there and Article 5 is a sacred obligation,' he told reporters at the White House on Wednesday.

The Pentagon revealed that President Biden approved the deployment of 3,000 American troops to Eastern Europe 'in the coming days' as the world watched Russia move closer to invading Ukraine.

But Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told Russian news agency Interfax that the U.S. moves were 'not substantiated by anyone' and were 'destructive steps which increase military tension and reduce scope for political decisions.'

Defense Department spokesman John Kirby also said 2,000 troops stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina would be deployed to Poland and Germany this week. The majority of this group  around 1,700 troops  will come from the 82nd Airborne Division's infantry brigade combat team and will go to Poland.

In addition to the 2,000-troop deployment and movement of forces already in Europe, the Pentagon has also ordered several thousand more troops be put on standby for potential deployment.

None of the troops are currently authorized to enter Ukraine.

The movements come as the West waits to see if Moscow will invade Ukraine but Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly claimed he does not intend to attack Ukraine.

Kirby assured reporters during his Wednesday briefing of the latest deployments: 'These are not permanent moves. They respond to current conditions. We will adjust our posture as those conditions evolve.'

'We do not believe conflict is inevitable.'

A military plane lands onboard aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman, in the Adriatic Sea as the strike group carry out exercises

Members of the U.S. Navy attend a press conference onboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman which is in the Adriatic Sea

Yesterday President Biden said his decision to deploy troops to Eastern Europe amid rising tensions was 'totally consistent' with what he had communicated to Russian President Vladimir Putin

A navy pilot operates a plane onboard aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman which is carrying out coordinated maritime manoeuvres and anti-submarine warfare training this week

2,000 troops from Fort Bragg, 1,000 in the Stryker squadron moving from Germany to Romania and thousands more ready: The U.S. troop plan for Eastern Europe Department of Defense Spokesperson John Kirby detailed on Wednesday the latest U.S. troop movements approved by President Joe Biden. He said that plan was laid out to the president in three parts: 1  1,000 U.S. troops part of the Germany-based infantry Stryker squadron will reposition to Romania 'in the coming days.' This mounted cavalry unit is designed to deploy in short order and move quickly once in place. The movement to Romania will add to the 900 U.S. forces already in that country to help deter aggression from Russia and enhance defensive capabilities in frontline NATO allied states. Kirby said Pentagon Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed reposition with Romania last week and the movement there is coming at the invitations of the Romanian government. France also intends to deploy to Romania under NATO command. 2  Approximately 2,000 troops stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina will deploy to Europe this week. The majority of those deployments, approximately 1,700, will comes from the 82nd Airborne Division's infantry brigade combat team, which will go to Poland. The 82nd specializes in parachute assault operations and is a rapid ready team prepared to response anywhere in the world within 18 hours. Another 300 or so are coming from the 18th Airborne Corps, which will create a joint task force capable headquarters in Germany. The corps provides mission command and is designed for rapid deployment anywhere in the world. Kirby said the Pentagon worked with Poland and Germany and have support for deployment. He assured: 'Again, these are not permanent moves. They respond to current conditions. We will adjust our posture as those conditions evolve.' 3  All of these troop movements and deployments are 'separate and in addition' to the 8,500 U.S. military personnel put on heightened alert posture last week. Kirby said: 'Those 8,500 are not currently being deployed but remain ready to move, if called, for the NATO Response Force (NRF) or as needed for other contingencies as directed by the Secretary of by President Biden.' Advertisement

Biden signed off on the plan for troop movement after meeting with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army General Mark Milley on Tuesday.

The plan includes three different parts - the U.S. troop movement from Germany to Romania; the deployment from Fort Bragg of troops to Poland and Germany; and the continued standby of 8,500 other U.S.-based troops who were put on heightened alert late last month.

U.S. lawmakers are split on Biden's decision to deploy, move and put troops on heightened alert in the midst of rising tensions in Europe.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham is in favor of it.

'I completely support the Biden Administration's decision to send more U.S. troops to bolster NATO allies in the face of Russian aggression,' the South Carolina senator tweeted on Wednesday.

'It is imperative that NATO meet the moment and that we stand firmly against Putin's efforts to divide the alliance.'

But fellow Republican Senator Mike Braun from Indiana said he opposed the move.

'I am strongly opposed to President Biden's decision to send American troops to Eastern Europe,' he tweeted.

Meanwhile senator Josh Hawley said he supported sending assistance to Kiev to help Ukraine defend itself. but he was against the U.S. getting so involved in a potential war with Russia

Yesterday President Biden offered Putin access to NATO bases so that Moscow could verify the U.S. does not have Tomahawk cruise missiles in Romania or Poland in a bid to avoid war in Ukraine.

Sources close to Biden told Bloomberg on Tuesday the proposal would only come to fruition upon agreement with American allies, especially Poland and Romania.

Russia would also need to share similar information about a number of bases housing ground-launched weapons.

Biden's proposal reportedly aims to diminish the Kremlin's fears that the U.S. could use the missiles to target Russia.

News of the proposal comes as US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is set to travel to Europe to attend a NATO defense meeting on February 16 and 17.

The Pentagon confirmed the trip to Voice of America reporter Carla Babb on Tuesday.

It is unclear who else will be in attendance, however, it is likely that Austin and other NATO allies will discuss the crisis enveloping eastern Europe as Russia amasses troops on Ukraine's border.

It comes as Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary fired back at his NATO allies this week alleging the sanctions proposed against Russia if the nation were to take military action against Ukraine would be 'doomed for failure.'

He also argued the Kremlin security demands were 'reasonable.'

'The president was very calm and said that Russias demands for security guarantees are normal and should be the basis for negotiations,' Orban said, according to the New York Times. 'And I agree with that. We must negotiate.'

Orban, who some consider to be Putins closest ally inside the European Union, also argued previous sanctions brought against Russia 'did not bring the desired effect at all' and ultimately caused more harm to Hungary than the intended target.
Emma Roberts enjoyed an afternoon soaking up the sun just weeks after splitting from her longtime partner Garrett Hedlund.

The actress, 30, flashed her abs in a hot pink bikini top with longer bikini bottoms that provided quite a bit of coverage.

She held Orwell's Roses, a book written by Rebecca Solnit, in her hand. She turned her head up to the sky with her eyes covered in dark sunglasses to protect herself from the bright tropical sun.

Trying to relax: Emma Roberts enjoyed an afternoon soaking up the sun just weeks after splitting from her longtime partner Garrett Hedlund

She captioned the photo, 'It was the last day in paradise @thewell @altagraciaauberge @aubergeresorts.'

Roberts had been taking some much needed R & R following a split from her partner of three years Garrett Hedlund.

Emma and Garrett first began dating back in March 2019 and, over a year later, would reveal that they were expecting a child.

Emma gave birth in December 2020 but waited to reveal the birth and the name of their baby until January 2021.

Respite: Roberts had been taking some much needed R & R following a split from her partner of three years Garrett Hedlund

Working on co-parenting: Despite their breakup, the two are apparently still working on co-parenting together

Despite their breakup, the two are apparently still working on co-parenting together.

'It's sad, and they are trying their best to co-parent. It's been hard,' an insider told PEOPLE of their post-breakup dynamic.

While Roberts took to a Costa Rican vacation to heal after ending things, Garrett dealt with the breakup in a more emotional way.

He was arrested for public intoxication after a night out in Franklin County, Tennessee in the middle of January.

Controversy: Hedlund was arrested for public intoxication after a night out in Franklin County, Tennessee in the middle of January; Hedlund pictured January 2020 with Emma

Not his first issue: Hedlund is currently on three years probation over his previous DUI case, meaning his recent arrest for being intoxicated could pose a problem for the star

Hedlund is currently on three years probation over his previous DUI case, meaning his recent arrest for being intoxicated could pose a problem for the star.

It also took place days after it was reported that Hedlund was being sued for a car crash that took place on the night of his 2020 DUI arrest.

Hedlund is being accused of crashing into another car - containing a woman and three children - passed out drunk behind the wheel of his Jeep and running a red light.

The family claims that Hedlund - whose blood alcohol on the night in question was twice the legal limit of .08 - attempted to flee the scene without calling an ambulance.

Sued in another case: It also took place days after it was reported that Hedlund was being sued for a car crash that took place on the night of his 2020 DUI arrest

'Despicable': In court documents obtained by PEOPLE , the actor's conduct was deemed as 'despicable' (pictured 2021)

In court documents obtained by PEOPLE, the actor's conduct was deemed as 'despicable.'

'Hedlund's conduct was despicable in that he knew and was educated in the dangers presented to Plaintiffs and the public when he operated a vehicle while intoxicated,' the complaint read

The complaint claims the actor refused a DUI test at the scene of the accident. When he was tested at the station two hours later, his blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit.

The family is suing Garrett for damages.
MBABANE  ANC officials and international human rights organisations have weighed in on the arrest of SNUS President by Eswatini police.

The Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) President Colani Maseko, was initially detained on Monday and later arrested on charges pertaining to the contravention of Section 3 (1) as read with Section 4 of the Sedition and Subversive Activities Act of 1938. He was also slapped with two charges of malicious damage to property. Spokesperson of MEC Gauteng for Human Settlement Urban Planning and African National Congress (ANC) member Castro Ntobeko Ngobese joined other international human rights organisations in the call for the release of Maseko.

Freedom

Ngobese, through a statement yesterday, said South Africa should cut all diplomatic ties with Eswatini and demand freedom of political activism, introduction of democratic reforms, and unconditional release of all political prisoners and the unbanning of all political parties in the country. He further insinuated that a travel ban should be imposed on the authorities responsible for Masekos apprehension. Amnesty International for East and Southern Africa Director Deprose Muchena said Eswatini authorities must urgently end their crackdown on political activists and human rights defenders. The views of these activists should be welcomed in the arena of public debate, not repressed, stated Muchena. The organisation further said Maseko was arbitrarily detained and should be released immediately. The arbitrary detention of Colani Maseko by the security forces under the guise of questioning and subsequent charges of sedition and malicious damage to property amounts to intimidation and harassment, said Muchena.

He further said it was clear that the authorities were desperate to weaken the pro-democracy movement that was pushing for political reforms in Eswatini. Maseko must be immediately and unconditionally released and all these politically motivated charges levelled against him must be withdrawn. Otherwise, he must be promptly brought to court and guaranteed a fair trial, said the Amnesty East and Southern Africa director. Muchena also stated that Eswatini authorities should welcome the views of these activists in the arena of public debate and not repress them. Authorities must allow people to freely exercise their human rights without reprisals, he said. In a media release yesterday, Southern Defenders, also known as Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network, expressed their deep concern over the escalating persecution of student leaders and other human rights defenders in the region.

Concerned

The Southern Defenders, the largest network of human rights defenders and social justice organisations in the region, are deeply concerned by the escalating persecution of student leaders and other human rights defenders in Eswatini. The governments heavy-handed clampdown on legitimate protest and dissent by students who are campaigning for democratic reforms by exercising their rights to freedom of expression and assembly, stated the human rights defenders. They further said they condemned the State-sanctioned arrests, subsequent detention and assault of Sakhile Nxumalo, who was taken in by a group of police officers near Riverstone Mall while on his way to Manzini town.

They further said the actions of the State violated the constitutional rights of the student leaders and subverted the international human rights obligations of the Kingdom of Eswatini.

We, therefore, call for the immediate release of all political prisoners including Maseko and the withdrawal of all charges that seek to penalise them for legitimate activism. We call upon the Government of Eswatini to bring an immediate end to the intimidation and harassment of pro-democracy activists and human rights defenders, it was stated. Also party to the issue of Maseko was the African Defenders organisation, which stated that political activism had long been suppressed in the Kingdom of Eswatini through what they alleged as the implementation of repressive laws and the normalisation of police brutality in response to protests.

In recent months, these factors have led to the killing and brutalisation of the people of Eswatini whose only crime is to seek a better future, they said. Not to be left out, was the Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network (SAHRD), who said, Maseko was arrested in a violent manner. The network also called for the immediate release of Maseko, stating that this should be done to prevent Eswatini from being under the radar for violating human rights. When reached for comment on the matter, Deputy Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli said the Kingdom of Eswatini conformed to the rule of law and further enjoyed and respected the bilateral relations it shared with many of its neighbours. At this point, no issue has been brought to governments attention through laid down diplomatic channels, which warrants a response. We can only urge those interested in issues happening in Eswatini to respect our justice system and all legal processes therein, she said.
PHOENIX  A House panel voted Wednesday to make some, but not all, forms of hazing a crime.

House Bill 2322 seeks to spell out in the states criminal code that it is a misdemeanor to subject any minor or student to any act that would violate a state or federal criminal law.

The measure also would ban activities that involve physical or mental brutality, sexual humiliation or forcing someone as part of an initiation, pledging or other ceremony to consume any food, liquor, drug or other substance that creates the risk of physical or emotional harm.

Violators could face up to six months in jail.

I was kind of shocked to discover that we actually didnt have a law against hazing, said Rep. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, sponsor of the measure.

Instead, he said, theres only a statute that says universities must have a policy defining hazing and saying that anything included in that definition is prohibited.

The only time it now becomes a crime, Kavanagh said, is when someone is killed or seriously injured, allowing the perpetrators to be charged with manslaughter or assault. He said it should not have to wait until that point for law enforcement to get involved.

Its really important to give clear public notice to people, clear warning, that hazing that causes a risk of injury or death is just not acceptable, is against the law, Kavanagh said.

The measure drew support from Heather Leventhal, who told the Committee on Government and Elections of the life-threatening injuries suffered by her son, Christian, during a 2018 hazing ceremony at Kappa Sigma fraternity at Arizona State University.

Text messages revealed they did not fear any repercussions for the damages they had done, she said. It was not going to prevent them from getting a job. It would not be on their record. And they would not be held personally financially responsible.

Rep. Alma Hernandez, D-Tucson, supported the bill. But Hernandez, who said she was in a sorority at the University of Arizona, sought to dispel the idea this is a major problem.

I just want to make it very clear that in the sororities that I knew and had friends in, and in mine particularly, we never promoted hazing, she said. I dont want people to get the impression thats what we do on campus.

Kavanagh said hazing would remain legal in some forms. So, you could still make pledges carry objects around, stand at attention when people come in, he said. Its just the dangerous stuff.

He said the measure would cover more than fraternities or sororities.

This would cover any organizational hazing, he said, as long as it involved minors or students of any age.

That drew questions from Rep. Kevin Payne, R-Peoria, who cited his own experience in the U.S. Navy with a multicentury tradition of initiating sailors who are crossing the equator for the first time, including actions like bobbing for onions in a toilet and being hit with hoses. But nobody ever died or got seriously injured doing these things, he said.

Kavanagh said what would be illegal comes down to the extent of what happened. If the so-called hosing was symbolic, not causing any injury, it wouldnt, he said.

House Minority Leader Reginald Bolding, D-Laveen, said the proposal makes sense.

Its important to send a message that you can have fun, you can have a good time, without going through rituals that in the past have shown to be not healthy for college life, not healthy for people, he said.

The measure, which passed on a 12-1 vote, next needs approval of the full House. Only Rep. John Fillmore, R-Apache Junction, was in opposition, though he did not explain his vote.
Karnataka Home Minister Araga Jnanendra on Thursday said children should neither wear the hijab nor saffron shawls when they go to school even as he directed the police to watch religious outfits in the coastal region where confrontation is brewing.

Children don't go to schools to practice their religion. They should go to school thinking they're children of Bharat Mata. Inside a school compound, there should not be hijab or saffron shawls, Jnanendra told reporters.

He was reacting to more than 100 Hindu students wearing saffron shawls at a government pre-university college in Kundapur to counter Muslim girls who sported headscarves.

Also read | Hijab row: 'Issue TC, kick those girl students out of school', says Muthalik

There are religious organisations that seem to have different ideas when it comes to Indias unity. So, I have asked the police to watch them, Jnanendra said.

For a month now, eight Muslim girls have been protesting for their "right" to attend class wearing headscarves at a government womens pre-university college in Udupi.

The education minister has already said that there is a prescribed uniform that students should stick to. Students of all religions should sit together and study with the feeling that theyre children of the same mother. There are churches, mosques and temples where religious activities can be followed. But, in a school where an academic atmosphere is needed our children should have the culture of promoting India's unity, Jnanendra argued.

Also read: Udupi girl's college not to allow hijab in classrooms

New SDRF vehicles

Earlier in the day, Home Minister Araga Jnanendra flagged off at least 30 new vehicles that the government has purchased for the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Jnanendra said they include ambulances and even diesel generator sets for remote areas where there is no electricity. Weve spent Rs 20 crore to procure the new vehicles and equipment, he said.

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MANZINI  Government might only have a budget to hire a consultant and not the implementation of the salary review for civil servants.

This was said by leaders of the public sector associations (PSAs) during a press briefing at the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) Centre. The press briefing was subsequent to the joint negotiation forum (JNF) sitting wherein the PSAs represented civil servants while the government negotiation team (GNT) represented the employer. According to the President of SNAT, Mbongwa Dlamini, their sitting in the JNF yielded nothing substantial. He said there was one item on the JNF agenda yesterday, which was the salary review.

Dlamini shared the background of the salary review that it was made an order of the court following the signing of a collective agreement in 2016 and ought to have been implemented in 2021. However, he said that did not happen.

Contempt

He said when the order of the court was to be implemented in April 2021; government said it could not do so. This, he said, led to the PSAs taking the matter to court as they believed it was contempt of court. Subsequent to this action, Dlamini said government requested that it be withdrawn so that negotiations could resume. As we engaged today (yesterday) we got nothing. Government delivered nothing as it was clear that we are not a priority, he said. The SNAT president said the response that they got from government insinuated that there might be a budget for seeking services of a consultant and not the implementation of the salary review. In essence, he said this meant that civil servants should pray that the budget for a consultant was made available and thereafter, they should hope that money would be allocated for the salary review in the 2024 financial year budget.

They said there is no money now as government should fix roads and also deal with COVID-19, he said. It is worth noting that in February 2021, government supposedly spent E85 million meant to reimburse civil servants, following appeals raised in the 2016 salary review exercise, on COVID-19-related needs. Dlamini said it was up to public servants on what to do next in order to get the salary review. He said this was because whatever they submitted in the JNF negotiations meant nothing. The masses have the power to decide how government will act, (in our pursuit of the salary review), he said.

The SNAT president said PSAs did not fear going to court, but wanted to pursue the legal route as a last resort. He said they were cognisant of the fact that there was nothing they could do after the court procedures. We can pressure government though, he added. Also, the President of the National Public Service and Allied Workers Union (NAPSAWU), Oscar Nkambule, said it was clear that government did not take them seriously as civil servants. Testament to this, he said, was that the employer (government) was uncertain of whether the money to recruit a consultant for the salary review was available. At this point, the ball is in your court, as weve done our part as leaders. Government does not take you seriously as all the challenges listed could have been dealt with, Nkambule claimed. The NAPSAWU president said government could have raised the money to hire a consultant leading to 2021. He said it would be understandable if the challenge was how to finance the new rates.

Invitation

Nkambule reiterated his claims that civil servants should be aware that they were the least priority to their employers (government) list. With this, he extended an invitation to public servants to attend a mass meeting to decide the fate of civil servants on their quest for a salary review on February 26, 2022 and also to partake in activities that shall be outlined thereafter.

The sentiments by Nkambule and Dlamini were also shared by the Secretary General of the Swaziland National Association of Government Accounting Personnel (SNAGAP), Dumile Dlamini. When addressing civil servants, she said: You shall give us a way forward as seemingly what is happening is done the opposite way. Dumile said as things stood, there was a possibility that should other disasters strike, they would get nothing. He said it was due to this that they should attend the mass meeting scheduled for the aforementioned date.

On the other hand, Secretary General of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU), Mayibongwe Masangane, said civil servants needed to forge a way forward. He said he was of the view that their employer had declared nothing towards cushioning their welfare, while they last received a cost-of-living adjustment (CoLA) of three per cent. The CoLA was offered in the 2020/21 financial year. The three per cent, he said, was minimal as they had spent three years without an offer. He said there was a high possibility that governments pronouncement that they would be seeking a consultant was simply a means of buying time. It is clear that there is a high possibility of a large chunk of the budget going to the security forces as there was an unrest, Masangane said. He said as things were, payday was a stressful day for many civil servants given that their remuneration barely afforded them an opportunity to buy basic needs.
Notwithstanding Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's continued attacks on Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) President Jayant Chaudhary, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday again extended an olive branch to the RLD leader and asked him to part ways with Samajwadi Party (SP) supremo Akhilesh Yadav.

Addressing an election meeting in Bulandshahar, Shah sought to remind Jayant that Akhilesh had "sidelined" his father, SP patron Mulayam Singh Yadav, and uncle Shivpal Singh Yadav. "Do you expect a person, who does not listen to his father and uncle, to listen to you (Jayant)?... you are living in a fool's paradise," the former BJP national president said.

"If the SP forms a government in the state, Jayant will be shown the door within three days; Azam Khan will be released from jail and join the government," he said.

In his address, the Shah listed the achievements of the centre and the state government and said that the "double engine" government had taken several steps for the development of the state.

Also Read  Samajwadi Party will boot out RLD if it wins UP polls, says Shah

Shah had met scores of Jat community leaders in Delhi a few days ago in a bid to placate them and seek their support in the forthcoming assembly polls. He had earlier also said that Jayant was welcome to join the BJP-led alliance in UP. "Jayant Chaudhary has chosen the wrong home," Shah had said.

BJP MP Pravesh Verma, who is from the Jat community, had also said that his party's doors were open to Jayant. "We can join hands even after the assembly polls," Verma had said, hinting that Jayant could cross over to the BJP camp in the event of a hung assembly in the state.

Shah's invitation to Jayant was in sharp contrast to Adityanath's attacks on the RLD president. Adityanath had recently said that the duo (Jayant-Akhilesh) had joined hands to engineer communal riots in the state.

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MATSAPHA - Locked out!

This is what happened to some textile workers who had to return home yesterday after they were locked out of their factory in the morning. The incident took place at New Life Garments (PTY) Ltd in Matsapha Industrial Site, a company which has over 300 workers and according to a source close to the matter, the employees and the employer were in disagreement over pay of three public holidays. The employees claim they were not paid when they closed for the festive holidays on December 10, 2021.

Promised

The source alleged that the employer promised to pay them for the three public holidays in January 2022. She said the company reopened on January 17, 2022 and they were paid after a fortnight, but their pay did not include that of the three public holidays in question. She said they had been asking their supervisors to talk to the employer about it, but the talks did not yield positive results. As a result, she said on Monday, the workers engaged the employer again, but the talks were not successful. When they reported for duty this morning (yesterday), they found the gate locked. When they enquired about why the gate was locked, they were informed that they should wait for the employer, the source alleged.

However, she said as they were waiting outside the gate, some of them managed to squeeze into the premises of the factory when the security guard opened the gate for vehicles. To their surprise, those who managed to get into the factory premises found that even the doors to their workstations were locked. As a result, they sat in the yard, the source said. When this reporter arrived at the factory around 9:30am, it found the gate closed and a number of workers sitting outside, while others had found shelter under trees within the company premises. While this reporter was speaking to some of the workers, they were called to a meeting and that was when the gate was opened for those who were outside. The meeting was held just by the gate (inside) and it lasted for a few minutes. Thereafter, the workers were seen going out of the gate and some of them left for their places of residence, while others remained behind and caucused in groups.

Feedback

When they were asked what the feedback from management was, they alleged that they were told that they should come back today. It was noted that some of them said they wanted to work because they feared that their employer would not pay them for the day if no work had been done. Thereafter, this reporter approached the security guards and asked to see the management. The security personnel requested to first inform the management team and when he returned, he said they had told him to inform this publication that they were busy. Contacts of the employer were asked, but the security guard left for his workstation (guard house) without responding. Meanwhile, the telephone number (landline) of New Life Garments rang unanswered for the better part of the afternoon yesterday. On the other hand, the Amalgamated Trade Union of Swaziland (ATUSWA) Secretary General, Wonder Mkhonza, said he was informed that the workers at the factory were locked out yesterday. He said the employer was supposed to pay the worker for the said public holidays and for yesterday. He said this was because the laws of the country stipulated that employers should pay workers for public holidays.
MANZINI  Those who made threats in light of the political turmoil in the country will be fetched by the police.

This was an assertion made by the Regional Staff Officer (RSO), Sikhumbuzo Gwebu, who is based at the Manzini Police Regional Headquarters (HRQ), on Monday when addressing students from the Southern Africa Nazarene University (SANU). The students had marched to the Manzini RHQ following that their fellow and Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) President, Colani Maseko and Sibusiso Nkwanyane, were taken by police officers on their way to the institution. Maseko was later charged with sedition and two counts of malicious damage to property while Nkwanyane was later released.

Demanding

Leading to Maseko being arraigned on the three charges, the students, while singing political songs and demanding his release, were engaged by Gwebu, who explained to them that Maseko and others were requested, solicited and beseeched to come to the police so that they could be engaged on issues that touched on them. He said they were taken in to be questioned about incidents, which took place during the unrest. This will not happen to just the two as there are many people who have been requested several times to explain their part. Theyve either refused, neglected or failed to come, Gwebu said. He said police could not neglect an investigation because people did not want to heed their request. The RSO explained that there was nothing peculiar about this act as it was the same treatment meted to other people who were either suspects or involved in cases that were being investigated.

Arrested

Gwebu further said fetching that person to a police station did not mean that individual was arrested, but it was merely to seek information and if it transpired that they were party to what they were being questioned about, they would be arrested. He emphasised that others were yet to be called in. It is worth noting that the National Commissioner of Police (NATCOM), William Tsitsibala Dlamini, had made calls for those who were supposedly making threats around the country to come forward. In light of this, Chairperson of the Multi-Stakeholder Forum (MSF) and Human Rights Lawyer, Thulani Maseko said they were not aware of this development. He, however, wondered why the arrests and interviews were being conducted at this point. He said the people who were being taken in the police were those who had expressed that they wanted political reforms as the current dispensation was not working for them.

We dont see why people are being arrested for expressing their right on how they want to be governed. There is no crime in that, he said.

The human rights lawyer said they would deal with this when it happened as they were still uncertain for now what was really happening. Also, President of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT), Mbongwa Dlamini, said he was aware of the developments. Dlamini said when people were being called to present themselves before the police, he had no cellular phone; hence, he was not reachable. He supposed that what was happening in terms of taking people in for questioning and arresting others was a form of intimidation.

This is intimidation, victimisation and a form of instilling fear among the people as they are targeting leaders from what weve gathered, Dlamini said.

Also, the Secretary General of the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA), Mduduzi Gina, said this was a sign of intimidation and victimisation of dissenting voices. This can only happen in a police State where people are confined to only the norms set by the political leaders, Gina said. He supposed that such developments were set to mull the voices of people who were seeking political reforms. Gina said it was their view that those targeted incited people to be aware of happenings in various fields, socially, economically and politically.

He said this could not be an offence in any democratic society. The federation stands opposed to the continuous arrests of people with dissenting views than those projected by the current establishment. The arrests are a clear indication of lack of political tolerance on the part of the authorities, a fundamental principle of good political governance expected from a civil community.

Criticism

He said the occupation of a public office attracted criticism, if a person held such occupation; it was assumed that he/she had agreed to be criticised. Gina said it was unconstitutional to arrest critics, more so if such criticism was a consequence of the occupation of the public office. Following the call by the NATCOM to visit the police station, the SNUS president relayed to this publication in an interview that he was aware of the NATCOMs declaration. Maseko said they were still to do even more and if the police chief was of the view that the statements made were threats, something was coming their way.

He was quoted saying, there was no amount of threats, intimidation whether prison time and torture that could stop them because all they wanted was democracy. At the time, Maseko also said they would do whatever it took to achieve democracy as students in the country. The SNUS president said there were no threats which were made by him, but clear statements that as a student union representative, they would not rest and the country would not be normal until all political prisoners were released, including the two arrested Members of Parliament (MPs) in Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube as well as Amos Mbedzi. He said the trio should be released unconditionally and also the unrestricted return of all political exiled people, including the Swaziland Liberation Movement (SWALIMO) President and former Siphofaneni MP Mduduzi Gawuzela Simelane.

Maseko also stated that all political parties should be unbanned because the exiled and imprisoned persons had to participate during the upcoming national dialogue. We will not dialogue to massage someones feelings because this is a transition towards a democratic government, he added. He said the situation in the country was unstable and they would continue calling for democracy and the release of political prisoners.
Western New York is bracing for the third significant snowfall of 2022, with the National Weather Service predicting a plodding storm front passing over the region beginning overnight Wednesday through Friday morning, bringing snowfall totals of 7 to 13 inches.

Western New York is at the northern tip of a massive cold front that is expected to bring snow, sleet and freezing rain to parts of the country as far south as Texas over the next two days. The region will remain under a winter storm warning until 10 a.m. Friday.

After record snowfall, frustration mounts as city residents wait for plows Snowed-in residents are not happy with City Hall's response in the wake of the snow storm that hit late Sunday night and covered Buffalo with a record amount of snow.

In Buffalo, Mayor Byron Brown said the city has taken a lesson from the last snowfall that dropped some 2 feet on metro Buffalo on Martin Luther King Day. That record snowfall for Jan. 17 prompted criticism of the city's plowing response. While main roads were mostly kept clear during and after the storm, many residential side streets went untouched by plows for days, leaving residents' vehicles stuck and prompting Buffalo Public Schools to close for two days.

Buffalo Public Schools went to remote-only learning Thursday in anticipation of this round of snow, the district announced around 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Public Works Commissioner Michael Finn, speaking to reporters Tuesday in anticipation of the storm Thursday, said the primary culprit last time was vehicles parked illegally on side streets, blocking plows from clearing the snow.

This time, Brown said the city will be quicker about ticketing and towing cars that are parked on the wrong side of residential streets with alternate side parking.

There were a "significant" number of residents who did not comply with parking regulations, Brown said.

"For our snow plan to work, it's a partnership," the mayor said. "The city has to do its part, but the residents have to do their part, as well."

Public works crews got a minor reprieve from Mother Nature in the run-up to Thursday's storm in the form of above-freezing temperatures that helped reduce the "hard pack" that had formed on many streets that were not plowed immediately after the MLK Day storm. Vehicles compacted the snow, which froze into ice, making it much more challenging to remove, Finn said.

As recently as Wednesday, construction vehicles outfitted with special ice-scraping plow blades were still going block by block in some neighborhoods, painstakingly scraping off the thick black ice to get streets back down to bare pavement.

The issue was the subject of a Common Council meeting Tuesday, during which Finn told lawmakers  who were inundated with residents' complaints in the wake of the MLK Day storm  about upcoming changes to the city's snow removal plan. The city's snow plan currently includes how to handle expected snowfalls, generally 10 inches or less, and catastrophic events, such as the 2014 "Snow-vember" storm that dropped more than 7 feet of snow in some places. The plan will be updated to address snowfalls that fall somewhere in between those two extremes.

A city spokesman said the updated plan, including policy changes and new equipment purchases, will be presented to the Common Council as part of Brown's budget later this year.
Four Pakistani soldiers and at least 15 militants were killed in clashes in restive Balochistan province, the country's interior minister said Thursday, while separatists claimed dozens more had died in fighting that was still ongoing.

Baloch separatists have stepped up attacks against Pakistan forces in recent weeks -- including with a deadly bomb blast in the eastern megacity of Lahore last month.

Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad said Pakistan forces came under attack late Wednesday in the Naushki and Panjgur districts of Balochistan, an oil- and gas-rich province bordering Iran and Afghanistan.

He said four soldiers "embraced martyrdom" in Naushki while a total of 15 assailants were killed in the twin assaults.

But in a statement on their Telegram channel, the Baloch Liberation Army claimed to have killed dozens of Pakistani troops and said separatist forces still held military posts they had captured.

"A large part of the military camps at Panjgur and Naushki are still under the control of the martyrs of the Majid Brigade of the Baloch Liberation Army," the group said.

"Baloch martyrs have so far killed more than 100 occupying troops and destroyed the interior of the camp."

Baloch separatists frequently exaggerate their battlefield successes, while the Pakistan military's public relations department also plays down losses, or delays reporting them.

The interior minister's video statement said a group of six militants were "surrounded" by troops and would be defeated.

"This is a great victory which the army has, as usual, achieved in its fight against terrorism," he added.

Balochistan is the largest, least populous and poorest province in Pakistan.

It has abundant natural resources, but locals have long harboured resentment, claiming they do not receive a fair share of its riches.

Tensions have been stoked further by a flood of Chinese investment under Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative, which locals say has not reached them.

China is investing in the area under a $54-billion project known as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, upgrading infrastructure, power and transport links between its far-western Xinjiang region and Pakistan's Gwadar port.

Pakistani forces in Balochistan also face attacks from the domestic chapter of the Taliban, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.

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Ericsson and Mobily have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand the cutting-edge 5G use cases for use in different industries in Saudi Arabia.

By exploring innovative use cases, Ericsson and Mobily will propel Saudi Arabia towards achieving its digital transformation ambitions. It will also will showcase the importance and capabilities of private networks in a variety of industries.

Ericsson Private 5G offers secure and simple 4G LTE and 5G standalone (SA) connectivity, that optimises and simplifies business operations with cloud-based network management portal and a troubleshooting application, built to meet enterprise Information Technology (IT) and Operation Technology (OT) users' self-management needs, while keeping sensitive data safe on site.

Having zero downtime upgrades and keeping sensitive data on-premise, Ericssons private network will provide high-performance through Service-Level Agreements (SLAs).

Being an easy to install and flexible network, supporting a range of deployment sizes, Ericsson Private 5G will support innovative use cases across a range of industrial sectors including manufacturing, mining, ports, and airports, as well as oil and gas and power utilities.

Eng Alaa Malki, Chief Technology Officer at Mobily says: Our collaboration with Ericsson reaffirms our commitment to positively contribute to Saudi Arabias digital transformation journey. By exploring innovative use cases across several industries in Saudi Arabia, we will not only help unlock growth opportunities for public and private sector enterprises in the Kingdom but will also propel the nation towards achieving its digital transformation ambitions in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The Ericsson Private 5G builds upon Ericssons 4G/5G radio and dual-mode core technology and will accelerate the digitalisation journey across multiple industries. Use cases range from tracking assets, real-time automation to enhanced productivity, optimising business operations through digital twins and data driven insights, performing better site inspections or remote controlled robotics to increase worker safety, and leveraging the capabilities of digital technologies such as Augmented Reality to enhance worker capabilities.

Ekow Nelson, Vice President at Ericsson Middle East and Africa says: Ericsson Private 5G will allow Mobily to better support their enterprise customers more effectively. High throughput and low latency mean enterprises will be able to run multiple use cases on a single network while ensuring critical data remains on-site via best-in-class security. Reliable 5G connectivity will accelerate digital transformation in line with the Saudi Vision 2030.

Ericsson and Mobily will work to identify critical industries from Ports, to Manufacturing and Logistics where 5G use case could be deployed. Recently, Ericsson and Mobily have signed an agreement to scale up 5G technology applications in the region.-- TradeArabia News Service
Ancient Trans Bhutan Trail

For hikers, the ancient Trans Bhutan Trail is undoubtedly a prominent fixture on their bucket list. But the site has been closed for six decades. This year though, that is changing as for the first time in 60 years, the historic Trans Bhutan Trail (TBT) will officially reopen in March 2022. The opening of the trail follows years of extensive restoration. The fully restored 250-mile historic pilgrimage trail welcomes walkers, mountain bikers, travellers, and pilgrims from around the world to retrace the footsteps of their ancestors. It also offers the opportunity to discover generations worth of stories across the remotest parts of Bhutan, the worlds only carbon negative country that lies deep in the Eastern Himalayas.

Traversing The Trail

The Trans Bhutan Trail presents a rare and sacred opportunity to explore Bhutans rich culture and heritage, as well as perceive the country in an authentic and sustainable way. The fully cleared trail connects nine dzongkhags(districts), 28 gewogs (local governments), two municipalities and one national park. The Trail meanders through pristine virgin forests, offering panoramic views of soaring Himalayan peaks and exclusive access to many untouched parts of Bhutan seldom visited by foreigners. For hundreds of years, the Trail was the only way for pilgrims, messengers, armies and traders to travel and communicate with others across the country.

Now, it has found a new life for an age of adventure and connection, with His Majesty The King of Bhutan to formally open the trail to citizens and international travellers, as a grand invitation to discover one of the worlds great trekking and mountain biking routes in an astounding, experiential environment. The Trans Bhutan Trail offers a purposeful way to connect with Bhutans rich history and preserved culture, and experience the ultimate renewal in wellness, culture, and spirituality.

Restoring The Trans Bhutan Trail

In 2018, with the vision of His Majesty, The Fifth King and the support of the Tourism Council of Bhutan  the Bhutan Canada Foundation led an initiative to restore the Trans Bhutan Trail, to make it accessible again. This led to the deployment of more than 900 furloughed, local workers during the pandemic to work on the ancient route. Following the rebuilding of 18 major bridges,10,000 stairs and 250 miles of trail, the Trans Bhutan Trail is now renewed for the first time in over half a century, making it once again possible to walk across the country from Haa in the west to Trashigang in east. The Trans Bhutan Trail is a path trailblazing through Bhutans history, with 400 historic and cultural sites identified along the route to date. Its historical significance stretches back at least 500 years, connecting fortresses called Dzongs and serving as the pilgrimage route for Buddhists in the east traveling to sacred sites in western Bhutan and Tibet. Garps (trail runners) worked the Trail and were legendary, traveling with mail and vital messages at great speed, without food or water. In addition, the Trail played a major role in uniting numerous Himalayan kingdoms which ultimately led to the birth of Bhutan as a nation in 1907. However, once the construction of roads began across Bhutan in the 1960s, the Trails stairways and footpaths gradually fell into disrepair. Opening ceremonies for the Trail will be hosted by His Majesty The King in the ancient and sacred city of Trongsa, central Bhutan in March 2022. VIP guests, international media, and hundreds of Bhutanese children will gather to walk the Trail and for the formal opening ceremonies. From April 2022, a limited number of permits will be issued to international travellers to hike the Trail, in whole or in part.

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Guided Trail Opportunities

Trans Bhutan Trail can arrange all aspects of guided walking and biking on the trail from gateway destinations into Bhutan on a not-for-profit basis, with all proceeds going back into a sustainable future for communities along the route. Truly intrepid travellers can walk the entire trail in just over a month. Half-day and full-day treks are possible with three, four or seven-day section hikes expected to be popular options for most visitors. The Trail presents a rich experience for birdwatchers and botanists, photographers, rafters, and runners, as well as for those looking for a spiritual, wellness, or religious experience. Accommodation along the way will be offered in signature campsites, homestays, and hotels. A core purpose of restoring the Trans Bhutan Trail is to create new socio-economic opportunities for the local community and make a significant contribution towards sustainable development in Bhutans rural areas. Economic benefit will flow directly into the local communities whether via homestays, buying supplies locally for multi-day trips or using one of the local guides.

Hikers and mountain bikers are able to book trips taking in all or some of the Trans Bhutan Trail. A limited number of permits will be issued to international travellers and all walks will be led by a local guide. Flights to Bhutan are operated by two Bhutanese Airlines from airports in India, Nepal, Singapore, Thailand, and Bangladesh. Trans Bhutan Trail can arrange all aspects of a trip to Bhutan from gateway destinations including visas and guides. An eight-night Western Bhutan Trekking & Cultural Adventure starts at US$3,210 per person based on two sharing, inclusive of accommodation, all meals, excursions and entry fees, transfers, visas, local trekking guide and a guide throughout the trip (excluding international airfares). (Images: Trans Bhutan Trail)

The post After 60 Years The Ancient Trans Bhutan Trail Is Now Open To Hikers And Adventurers appeared first on Augustman Singapore.
MBABANE  At the time of his death, Pastor Sikhumbuzo Cream Shongwe and his wifes company allegedly owed Farm Chemicals Limited E330 000.

Farm Chemicals Limited is demanding payment of a sum of E329 726.82 from Teren Cream Investments (Pty) Ltd, whose proprietors were Shongwe and his wife, Jabulile Teren Nkonyane. Shongwe died last Friday after being shot by police officers, after he allegedly tried to disarm an officer during the process of effecting an arrest. Shongwe had hours earlier on shot and killed a businessman, Zweli Tsabedze, whom he accused of having a love affair with his wife. The pastor died while admitted to the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital.

When he died, his wife had filed for divorce after she had been discharged from hospital where she was admitted, subsequent to being shot by her husband at their rented flat at Moneni, Manzini. The divorce proceedings are pending at the High Court.

Another matter that involved the two, which is pending in court, is the demand for payment by Farm Chemicals Limited. According to Farm Chemicals Limited, it had concluded an agreement with Teren Cream Investments for the supply of goods at the instance of the former. In terms of the agreement, according to Farm Chemicals Limited, Teren Cream Investments would issue an order for the supply of the products and would proceed to sell and deliver where the latter would have directed. According to the particulars of the claim, upon delivery of the goods, Farm Chemicals Limited said it would issue an invoice to Teren Cream Investments and it would make payment within a period of 30 days after receipt of the invoice.

Agreement

Farm Chemicals Limited alleged that after concluding the agreement, it effected a number of transactions. On January 28, 2021, Farm Chemicals Limited informed the court that it supplied agricultural goods at the instance of Teren Cream Investments in the amount of E191 080 which was in respect of 680 units of 2:3:2 (22) +Zn Kynock 50kg at E281.

Teren Cream Investments allegedly paid E170 403 and the balance was E20 676.82. On February 1, 2021, according to Farm Chemicals Limited, it allegedly supplied E49 295 worth of goods made up of 110 units of Lan 50kg at E269, each totalling E29 590 and 20 units of 2:3:2 (37) Zn f/c 50kg at E411 each amounting to E8 220.

The plaintiff (Farm Chemicals Limited) also informed the court that on March 8, 2021 it supplied Teren Cream Investments with goods valued at E46 400. Other goods were allegedly supplied on the same day, March 8, 2021, and March 15, 2021. The total amount of goods allegedly supplied by Farm Chemicals Limited to Teren Cream Investments was E329 726.82.

Farm Chemicals Limited submitted that the defendant, Teren Cream Investments, was in breach of the agreement. The defendant has failed to make payment of the invoices in terms of the agreement and is, therefore, in material breach of the agreement between the parties. In this vein, the defendant is liable to the plaintiff in the amount of E329 726.82, said Farm Chemicals Limited.

The plaintiff informed the court that it had cancelled its agreement with Shongwes company or the credit facility. It said it issued a letter of demand, however, the defendant allegedly failed or neglected to pay. Farm Chemicals Limited is represented by Waring Attorneys. Mathokoza Mbhamali of Mbhamali Attorneys appears on behalf of Teren Cream Investments, which filed a notice of intention to defend the summons. Nkonyane filed for divorce 14 days after Shongwe was granted bail. He had been arrested for shooting her several times. Shongwe pleaded with the court not to grant his wife a final decree of divorce and the other prayers she is seeking. The couples marriage had been marred by controversy and they had been in and out of court a number of times.

Marriage

In his plea Shongwe denied the assertion by his wife that during the course of their marriage he had been involved in extra marital affairs with different women. However, it is the plaintiff (Jabulile) who has engaged in numerous adulterous relationships with several men whose full and further particulars are unknown to me, he argued. He told the court that his wife had, however, openly committed adultery with Zwelithini Tsabedze, which eventually led him (Shongwe) obtaining a restraining order against the former. According to Shongwe, there was an order restraining and interdicted Tsabedze from communicating with Jabulile.

Shongwe further denied that on August 22, 2021, his wife found him with Hloniphile Ndzinisa inside their rented flat. I have been a loyal and faithful husband to the plaintiff, however, four months ago, without any reason, she decided to leave our marital home, alleged Shongwe. According to Nkonyane, the intervention of family members did not assist her husband to change his ways. Jabulile also claimed that during the subsistence of their marriage, Shongwe had been involved in extra marital affairs with different women. She alleged that her cousin, Hloniphile Ndzinisa, confessed to the adulterous relationship with Shongwe. She also told the court that her husband was allegedly renting a flat for Hloniphile at Madonsa.
Lifes most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?

Those words from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  as so many of us prepare to attend CUNAs Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in our nations capital  feel especially apt.

GAC is an opportunity to show lawmakers and their staff the true power and scale of what the credit union movement does. Its an opportunity to unabashedly advocate the philosophical and strategic alignment that binds us together; that is, our unflinching commitment to improving the financial well-being of our employees, members, and the communities we serve.

Think of the most challenging financial time youve ever experienced in your life. How did you feel? What did you do? Who did you turn to for help? According to the U.S. Financial Health Pulse 2021 U.S. Trends Report, 166 million people in our country are not financially well, struggling with some or many aspects of their financial lives. These are our employees, our family, our members, and our communities.

In fact, I would posit that financial well-being for all is credit unions people helping people for 2022 and beyond. This goes beyond financial education. This is tying the strands of peoples financial lives together into a cohesive picture to help them thrive financially. Its every one of the 5,100 institutions in our system having a very real, positive effect on helping employees, members and communities face financial decisions and challenges every day.

What does financial well-being for all look like in practice? Consider the work of this years Herb Wegner honorees who we will celebrate during the Foundation Dinner at GAC:

People like Roger Heacock, retired CEO of Black Hills FCU, who invested over $120,000 into TV ads in Lakota, when just 5,000 people speak the language globally.

People like Lucy Ito who, during her tenure at WOCCU, created partnership with the government of Uzbekistan, through which she laid the groundwork to introduce the former Soviet republics first credit unions.

Organizations like the Faith Based Credit Union Alliance that cooperate with micro resources to support some of the most underserved communities in Chicago.

Organizations like the African-American Credit Union Coalition that said No more to systemic racism and inequality in the financial system and rallied the credit union movement around the cause.

That is improving financial well-being for all. That is people helping people.

When credit unions band together, when we pool our resources and work in true partnership, it can have seismic impact, nationwide. An example of this cooperative spirit is a newly created designated fund at the Foundation  the FinHealth Fund. The fund was established to catalyze three core efforts that were defined through two days of discussion, debate and collaboration at a system leadership event in September 2021.

Four credit unions  BCU, Coastal CU, Local Government FCU and Redwood CU  in collaboration with CUNA Mutual Group, provided leadership funding of $2M to create the fund. These five system leaders also offered a challenge to the rest of the credit union system to collectively follow suit and commit $10M to support five years of focused, intentional work. Work to build a repository of resources for credit unions on financial well-being for all as a strategy imperative; build readiness of our credit union professionals to leverage empathy, DEI, and the mission of credit unions to truly serve people where they are in their financial lives; and a collaboration to identify and test the data within the system to quantify how credit unions improve the financial lives of members within their fields of membership.

The very heart of credit unions is our mission to improve peoples financial lives  what we do for others. Its who we are. Its why we exist. Its what we do. Embrace who you are as credit unions and the persistent and urgent question of improving financial well-being for all.
Ethiopian Minister of Health Lia Tadesse (R) speaks during a handover ceremony of China-donated COVID-19 vaccines in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Jan. 20, 2022.

The Chinese government on Thursday donated an additional 2.2 million doses of Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines to Ethiopia, giving a boost to the East African nation's vaccination efforts.

China has so far donated around 7 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Ethiopia, which the Ethiopian Ministry of Health said is playing a crucial role in combating the virus. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

ADDIS ABABA, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese government on Thursday donated an additional 2.2 million doses of Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines to Ethiopia, giving a boost to the East African nation's vaccination efforts.

The handover ceremony for the latest donated vaccines was attended by senior Ethiopian government officials and members of the Chinese diplomatic community in the Ethiopian capital.

China has so far donated around 7 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Ethiopia, which the Ethiopian Ministry of Health said is playing a crucial role in combating the virus.

Lia Tadesse, Ethiopian Minister of Health, said during the handover ceremony that the latest Chinese donated vaccines are saving lives as part of the Ethiopian government's efforts to vaccinate its people against COVID-19.

"Today's donation of 2.2 million Sinopharm vaccines is helping to access the vaccines to our communities and protect from the COVID-19 pandemic," Tadesse said.

The Ethiopian health minister stressed that the support that has been provided by China is not only limited to the COVID-19 vaccines.

"Within the pandemic, there has been several supports with regards to prevention, treatment, detection and testing," Tadesse said.

"We express our appreciation to this continued solidarity and support to avert this pandemic and also the continued support of the government of China in other areas of the health sector beyond COVID-19," she added.

Zhao Zhiyuan, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, on his part said that the Chinese government-donated vaccines are playing a crucial role in Ethiopia's efforts in combating COVID-19.

"Everyone knows China and Ethiopia are good brothers and sisters, and we are always supporting each other. China cherishes and pay good attention to the friendship with Ethiopia and we will continue to support Ethiopia to fight against COVID-19," said Zhao.

The Chinese ambassador stressed that China will further strengthen its vaccine support to Ethiopia in 2022.

Ethiopia has so far administered a total of 10,965,479 doses to 9,369,036 people, according to the latest figures from the Ministry of Health.

According to the ministry, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country reached 459,959 as the death toll from the pandemic reached 7,190 as of Wednesday evening.

According to the ministry, Chinese-donated vaccines are among the most administered COVID-19 vaccines in the East African country.

As part of its commitment to make its vaccines a global public good, China is presently playing a crucial role in terms of vaccine accessibility and affordability in developing countries, including Ethiopia. 
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A blood clot forming in the carotid artery. Credit: American Heart Association

Black adults born in the U.S. had a higher rate of death from cardiovascular diseases and all causes compared to Black adults who were born in other countries, according to preliminary research to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2022.

Black adults in the U.S. are at higher risk for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases compared to white Americans. However, the risk of death from stroke and other types of cardiovascular disease, as well as all causes of death, may vary among Black adults born in the U.S. versus those who are born elsewhere. The researchers note their study is one of the first large, population-based, epidemiological studies to examine the impact of migration and assimilation on death among Black individuals.

"Previous reports have suggested that despite having low socio-economic status and limited access to health care, immigrants around the world are generally healthier than the host population [in the country to which they have migrated], a benefit that tends to dissipate the longer they live in the host country," said study author Alain Lekoubou Looti, M.D., M.S., an assistant professor of neurology and public health sciences at Penn State College of Medicine at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania. "How region of origin and acculturation affect death from cardiovascular disease, stroke and all causes among Black immigrants remains largely unknown and may provide valuable information for studies on stroke prevention and outcomes for the public, health care professionals and health care stakeholders."

In 2019, 10% of the Black population in the U.S. was estimated to be born elsewhere, an increase of 3% from 2000, when about 7% of the U.S. Black population was born outside the U.S., according to statistics from the Pew Research Center.

In this study, researchers evaluated the association between country of birth and stroke prevalence using health information on more than 64,700 Black adults in the U.S., ages 25 to 74 years, from the National Health Interview Service data 2000-2014 of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Among those who reported surviving a stroke, researchers compared overall death rates, as well as death rates specifically due to stroke and cardiovascular diseases, among Black adults born in the U.S. and Black adults born in the Caribbean, South and Central America, and Africa. The researchers also analyzed the potential effect of time since migration on these parameters.

The analysis found:

Of those studied, 2,549 had a self-reported history of a stroke.

There were 4,329 deaths (including 205 attributed to a stroke and 932 deaths from cardiovascular disease) recorded during the study period.

Compared to U.S.-born Black adults, African-born Black adults who reported having had a stroke had 50% lower death from all causes and trended toward having lower cardiovascular death rates.

At the 10-year follow-up, the incidence of death for U.S.-born Black adults from all causes was 12.6%; 2.76% from cardiovascular disease; and 0.6% from stroke. Among Black adults who were born in the Caribbean, South and Central America, the incidence of death from all causes was about 6.1%; 1.6% from cardiovascular disease; and 0.45% from stroke. For Black adults born in Africa, the incidence of death from all causes was 3.15%; 0.54% from cardiovascular disease; and 0.08% from stroke.

Compared to U.S.-born Black adults, the rates of death among Black individuals born in the Caribbean, South and Central America from all causes were 54% lower and 40% lower from cardiovascular disease, respectively, however, rates of death from stroke were similar.

Time since migration did not significantly affect death rates among Black adults born outside the U.S.

"Our finding that Black individuals who immigrated to the U.S. earlier (less than five years ago) and later (15 years ago and more) died at a lower rate than U.S.-born Black individuals was surprising, and our analysis could not explain this difference. One potential explanation is the persistent 'carryover' effects from their country of birth, although this benefit fades with time," Lekoubou Looti said.

A potential study limitation is that stroke was self-reported by the study participants.

"This study provides important additional information as we continue to investigate the various factors that may affect cardiovascular disease death and stroke incidence among people born in the U.S. compared to people who migrate to the U.S.," said Mercedes R. Carnethon, Ph.D., FAHA, an American Heart Association volunteer expert and Circulation Associate Editor and an epidemiologist and vice chair of preventive medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. "Continued research in this area will ultimately help us reduce heart disease and stroke for all people in the U.S. regardless of place of birth."
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offered a Tennessee couple a refund on income taxes paid for unsold staking rewards as part of what appears to be a settlement in an ongoing legal fight  a move industry experts say signals an important shift in the way the IRS views crypto staking.

In 2019, Joshua Jarrett paid income tax on 8,876 tezos tokens he earned through staking. In 2020, Jarret asked the IRS to return the taxes he paid, arguing the tokens were not income but created property. The IRS currently treats digital assets as property for tax purposes, but assets generated through staking may also be taxed as income, as happened in Jarrett's case.

Jarrett filed a lawsuit against the agency after the IRS did not respond, funded in part by the Proof of Stake Alliance (POSA).

In December 2021, attorneys for the IRS wrote to Jarrett and his wifes attorneys to inform them the IRS had been authorized and directed to schedule an overpayment of $3,793, plus statutory interest.

For POSA, the IRS concession that Jarretts taxes were an overpayment is a signal the agency agrees with the plaintiffs position that tokens he generated through staking are property and not income until they are sold.

The IRS basically waved the white flag and said, Heres your refund, and they wouldnt do this after litigation has already started unless they thought there were some teeth to [Jarretts] arguments, said Alison Mangiero, the acting executive director of POSA.

The IRS declined to comment. The agency has not published any formal statement or otherwise indicated whether a settlement offered to a single plaintiff is a sign of a broader policy shift.

According to court records, a bench trial is currently set to begin in March 2023. The judge overseeing the case asked both parties to make "a good faith attempt to resolve the case" after the discovery process ends. Discovery is set to end by March 18, 2022.

As proof-of-stake blockchains like Solana, Avalanche and Tezos continue to grow in popularity, both individual crypto stakers and groups like POSA have pointed out the need for tax clarity from the IRS.

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Jarretts (and POSAs) desire for clarity has pushed the lawsuit forward.

Not willing to settle for just the refund, Jarrett and his lawyers declined the IRS offer and are seeking the issuance of guidance from the IRS on whether tokens created through staking constitute taxable income at the time of their creation or, as Jarrett suggests, just when theyre sold.

Mangiero told CoinDesk the Department of Justice (DOJ) has received Jarretts rejection of its offer, though it has not yet responded, and the case will proceed.

If the court reaffirms [Jarretts] claim that these staking rewards should be taxed as created property, then there is a legal opinion that other taxpayers can rely on, and they can feel confident when they file their taxes every year, Mangiero said.

Mangiero hopes the case will force the IRS to issue formal guidance.

They have never issued guidance specifically on staking rewards, Mangiero said. And the only guidance they issued on mining, which is tangentially related, was back in 2014. There are a lot of people out there like [Jarrett] who are really trying to do the right thing and pay their taxes, and this would help them to do that.
Leicester [England], February 3 (ANI): The largest planet of the solar system, Jupiter, houses a lot of mysteries in it. New Leicester space research has revealed, for the first time, a complex 'tug-of-war' lights up aurorae in Jupiter's upper atmosphere, using a combination of data from NASA's Juno probe and the Hubble Space Telescope.

The study, published in the 'Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics', has described the delicate current cycle driven by Jupiter's rapid rotation and the release of sulphur and oxygen from volcanoes on its moon, Io.

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Researchers from the University of Leicester's School of Physics and Astronomy used data from Juno's Magnetic Field Investigation (MAG), which measures Jupiter's magnetic field from orbit around the gas giant, and observations from the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph carried by the Hubble Space Telescope.

Their research provided the strongest evidence yet that Jupiter's powerful aurorae was associated with an electric current system that acts as part of a tug-of-war with material in the magnetosphere, the region dominated by the planet's enormous magnetic field.

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Dr Jonathan Nichols, a reader in Planetary Auroras at the University of Leicester and corresponding author for the study, said: "We've had theories linking these electric currents and Jupiter's powerful auroras for over two decades now, and it was so exciting to be able to finally test them by looking for this relationship in the data. And when we plotted one against the other I nearly fell off my chair when I saw just how clear the connection is."

"It's thrilling to discover this relation because it not only helps us understand how Jupiter's magnetic field works, but also those of planets orbiting other stars, for which we have previously used the same theories, and now with renewed confidence."

Despite its huge size - with a diameter more than 11 times that of Earth - Jupiter rotates once approximately every nine-and-a-half hours.

Io is a similar size and mass to Earth's moon, but orbits Jupiter at an average distance of 422,000 km; roughly 10 per cent further away. With over 400 active volcanoes, Io is the most geologically active object in the Solar System.

Scientists had long suspected a relationship between Jupiter's aurorae and the material ejected from Io at a rate of many hundreds of kilograms per second, but the data captured by Juno proved ambiguous.

Dr Scott Bolton, of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the Principal Investigator (PI) for the Juno mission, said, "These exciting results on how Jupiter's aurorae work are a testament to the power of combining Earth-based observations from Hubble with Juno measurements. The HST images provide the broad overview, while Juno investigates close up. Together they make a great team!"

Much of the material released from Io is propelled away from Jupiter by the planet's rapidly rotating magnetic field, and as it moves outward its rotation rate tends to slow down. This results in an electromagnetic tug-of-war, in which Jupiter attempts to keep this material spinning at its rotation speed via a system of electric currents flowing through the planet's upper atmosphere and magnetosphere.

The component of the electric current flowing out of the planet's atmosphere, carried by electrons fired downward along magnetic field lines into the upper atmosphere, was thought to drive Jupiter's main auroral emission.

However, prior to Juno's arrival this idea had never been tested, as no spacecraft with relevant instruments had previously orbited close enough to Jupiter. And when Juno arrived in 2016, the expected signature of such an electric current system was not reported - and, while such signatures have since been found - one of the great surprises of Juno's mission has been to show that the nature of the electrons above Jupiter's polar regions is much more complex than was initially expected.

The researchers compared the brightness of Jupiter's main auroral emission with simultaneous measurements of the electric current flowing away from the Solar System's largest planet in the magnetosphere over an early part of Juno's mission.

These aurorae were observed with instruments on board the Hubble Space Telescope, in Earth orbit. By comparing the dawn-side measurements of current with the brightness of Jupiter's aurorae, the team demonstrated the relationship between the auroral intensity and magnetospheric current strength.

Stan Cowley, an Emeritus Professor of Solar-Planetary Physics at the University of Leicester and co-author for the study, who has studied Jupiter's powerful aurorae for 25 years, added: "Having more than five years of in-orbit data from the Juno spacecraft, together with auroral imaging data from the HST, we now have the material to hand to look in detail at the overall physics of Jupiter's outer plasma environment, and more is to come from Juno's extended mission, now in progress. We hope our present paper will be followed by many more exploring this treasure trove for new scientific understanding." (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
BUCHAREST (Reuters) -France hopes a deal to sell four warships to Romania for 1.2 billion euros ($1.35 billion) will be concluded soon, as the two sides look to ensure security in the Black Sea, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Thursday.

Defence firm Naval Group won the contract to build four Gowind navy corvettes for Romania as well as renovate two existing frigates in 2019 in partnership with Romanian company Santierul Naval Constanta, but the deal was held up pending legal challenges.

Romania's defence ministry said the two companies have until the end of February to decide whether they will go ahead with the deal, adding the price was not negotiable.

Romania's navy is the least modernised of its military branches. The country, a NATO state since 2004 and European Union one since 2007, has ramped up its defence spending in recent years.

NATO has a multinational land force of up to 4,000 troops in Romania and the country also hosts a U.S. ballistic missile defence station.

($1 = 0.8858 euros)

(Reporting by Luiza Ilie and John Irish; Editing by Alex Richardson)
EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness said the decision to halt Brexit checks on goods entering Northern Ireland is a breach of international law.

The status of Brexit checks at Northern Ireland ports remained unclear this morning (Thursday February 3) after DUP Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots issued a unilateral direction yesterday evening instructing his officials to stop the agri-food checks at midnight.

Ms McGuinness, the commissioner in charge of financial services, said: This is extremely unhelpful to have this news at this time of a new year, when all efforts are being made on our side.

Were working tirelessly to find solutions with the United Kingdom to specific problems and indeed have put forward very specific details.

She said there will be a call between UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and European Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic later on Thursday.

This announcement has created uncertainty and unpredictability and certainly no stability, so Im not sure what the purpose of this move is, Ms McGuinness said.

Its an absolute breach of international law, she told RTE radio.

Our clear position is that Northern Ireland is in a very unique and positive situation, part obviously of the UK but in the single market of the European Union.

She said checks on goods are needed to protect the single market and avoid a hard border, adding: The news of this stopping of inspections  if that is actually what happens  is really, really unhelpful in us finding a way forward because business has said there are problems with how the protocol operates.

We have proposed solutions and we would like to think that we could work through these solutions with our UK counterparts and put an end to this uncertainty, instability, this unpredictability which is so bad for everyone.

We have reminded our UK counterparts from the very outset when they resigned, if you like, or pulled away from implementing the agreement, that they actually have proposed and signed up to that. They were breaching international law and that is a major problem because we need to be able to trust each other.

And we were hoping  and I hope it will be the case  that, with a new counterpart on the UK side, we have that trust in each other and can find solutions.

But clearly when there is action, which overnight and this morning has created confusion, it is very hard to know what the purpose of this is because it doesnt help the businesses in Northern Ireland.

It doesnt help us trying to protect both the Good Friday Agreement and the single market.

Lorries were still being received at a Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) checking facility in Belfast Port earlier this morning.

Several vehicles entered the facility after the ferry arrived from Cairnryan in Scotland at 6am.
LONDON  Wash your hands! Wash your hands! That plea has sounded the world over in recent years, and it lends a topical potency to Dr. Semmelweis, running through Feb. 19 at the Bristol Old Vic, a beautiful 18th-century playhouse in southwest England.

Its urgent speaker is the titular medic, a Hungarian-born doctor in 19th-century Vienna who pioneered antisepsis only to die in 1865, at age 47. It was left to subsequent physicians like Joseph Lister to pick up his work.

The play tells the time-honored tale of a man against the system, in this case a visionary whose desire to reverse a high mortality rate among young mothers comes up against a largely heedless establishment. Worthy of Ibsen and chronicled before in a Howard Sackler play that circled Broadway but never got there, Semmelweiss story here emerges as a star vehicle for Mark Rylance. The much-laureled actor (three Tonys and an Oscar) co-wrote the play with Stephen Brown.
MANZINI - The no-work, no-pay rule will be effected on civil servants who will be partaking in the petition delivery calling for the release of Colani Maseko.

Maseko is the President of the Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) and is also a student at the Southern Africa Nazarene University (SANU). He was arrested on Monday and charged with sedition and two counts of malicious damage of property. Today, SNUS and the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) will march, demanding his release. TUCOSWA called its affiliates, who among them are public sector associations (PSAs), to partake in the petition delivery to the Manzini Police Regional Headquarters (RHQ). In light of this, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service Sipho Tsabedze, said the issue of no-work, no-pay, was not even worth considering as it was certain it would happen.

No person has to be paid for doing nothing. Whatever amount civil servants earn is for what they have done as part of their job description, Tsabedze said. He said this when asked if any request had been advanced to his ministry by the PSAs to partake in the march. Tsabedze said civil servants were expected at work and those who would be absent, would not be paid for the day they had missed. Secretary General of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) Sikelela Dlamini said: We are ready for that. We are moving forward and we are determined. This is our country and therefore it is ourselves who are to correct it. Secretary General of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU) Mayibongwe Masangane said: Members, as part of society, must participate, because we believe that what is happening in the country is not good and it must be condemned with all the contempt it deserves.

Affiliate

Masangane said this was just a ploy to discourage civil servants from supporting the students. He said they would be part of the march as an affiliate of TUCOSWA. As well as on our own as a union, we believe in justice and all the freedoms that one must enjoy. The back and forth between government and civil servants is not new, as last year October, Minister of Public Service Mabulala Maseko made it clear that government would apply the no-work, no-pay rule and further take disciplinary action against civil servants who would participate in a march that was organized by TUCOSWA. Also, it is worth noting that recently, government said some civil servants had shifted their focus from being apolitical and were focusing on political issues.

The principal secretary in the Ministry of Public Service said this when responding to a question on what was motivating the need for government (employer) in the letter served to invite SNAT to a bilateral meeting wherein the review of the current recognition agreement was on the agenda. The review of the current recognition agreement was said to be with a view to align it with contemporary labour laws and practices. Also, in the agenda was the participation and involvement of public officers in political activities. Tsabedze said the terms and conditions of service for civil servants did not allow them to participate in political issues. He said civil servants were supposed to be apolitical because they were servants of the public and were supposed to provide services to everyone, irrespective of their clients political affiliation and beliefs.

This, Tsabedze said, was contained in the Government General Orders, the Public Service Act of 2018 and the International Public Service Charter. He said the labour laws of the land did not allow unions to be involved in purely political issues. The issue of reviewing the recognition agreements is a normal thing as it is enshrined in the recognition agreements themselves and best practice. This is necessitated by developments in laws and other issues that arise within the employment arena, Tsabedze said. He said the allegations of union bashing were unfounded and baseless and instead, the PS said the employer was seeking to do what was supposed to be done on these issues.

Freedom

Worth noting is that Chapter III of the Constitution of Eswatini under Section 25 states among other things that a person has the freedom of conscience, of expression and of peaceful assembly and association and of movement. Furthermore, Tsabedze said the purpose of trade unions was to protect the interests of workers on bread and butter issues relating to their employment and other socio-economic issues. His response was subsequent to claims made by SNAT, wherein it was said the review of the current recognition agreement between government and their union was set to silence them. The secretary general of SNAT said reviewing the recognition agreement had no challenges; however, their suspicions were that the upcoming meeting was aimed at limiting their participation as union members in the countrys politics.

Dlamini said they were of the view that the objective of the meeting was targeting civil servants not to be seen attending political party events. When questioned on what the Government General Orders say about political activities of officers, he said: As SNAT members, we dont attend them as teachers, but as members of the society affected by the pertinent issues that are discussed. Dlamini said they would consult other international organisations on this as they were concerned about being deprived of partaking in political activities. Rhetorically, he asked: Does it mean the moment you become a civil servant you then cease to be a member of society? If the two cannot be divorced, is government calling us an employer or the administration?
Life Insurance Corporation of India's (LIC) embedded value has been finalised at more than Rs 5 lakh crore, a government official who is overseeing what is expected to be the country's largest IPO said on Thursday.

Investors are eagerly waiting for the government to indicate LIC's embedded value  a measure of future cash flows in life insurance companies and the key financial gauge for insurers  when it releases the initial public offering (IPO) draft prospectus, expected in a matter of days.

While there has been speculation about the number in media  from as low as Rs 3.96 lakh crore to as high as Rs 11.23 lakh crore  this is the first time the government, which owns 100 per cent of LIC, is commenting on the matter.

Also Read | India aims to file draft LIC IPO prospectus next week

The embedded value will help establish the market valuation of LIC and determine how much money the government raises in the flotation. That will be crucial to the government to help meet its divestment targets and keep its fiscal deficit in check.

"I would say the embedded value could be more than Rs 5 lakh crore and the enterprise value will be multiples of that," Tuhin Kanta Pandey, secretary, department of divestment, told Reuters in an interview.

Media reports in India have projected LIC's market valuation at around four times the embedded value.

LIC has a majority share of the life insurance market in India. The government, which hopes to raise as much as Rs 89,844 crore from selling a stake in the IPO, expects the proceeds will help it bridge a deficit gap this fiscal year. Pandey said the government planned to issue a draft IPO prospectus to investors as early as next week.

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Officer Moras brother, Wilson Mora, remembered a happy boy  Mom showered us with love and you absorbed it like a sponge  while his sister, Karina, speaking in the familys native Spanish, said he was full of dreams, a boy who lit up the house with his smile.

When he became a police officer, he quickly showed himself to be a leader, said Inspector Amir Yakatally, his commanding officer in the 32nd Precinct. A new breed of officer, he said before recalling the fatal shooting.

On the dreadful day, Wilbert took the lead and did everything right, he said. He asked all the right questions and guided the junior Officer Rivera down the hall. When the shooting began, Wilbert used precious seconds while still in the line of fire to return fire, Inspector Yakatally said, and added, Know that he went out fighting.

Mayor Adams praised Officer Sulans quick thinking. Hes a hero, he said.

The shootings of Officers Mora and Rivera punctuated more than a year of increased gun violence that emerged early in the pandemic in the city, prompting concern about public safety from City Hall to the streets outside. Just Tuesday, on the eve of the funeral, an off-duty officer in Queens on his way to work was shot in the arm during an attempted theft of his car.

Last night we were reminded again about the dangers of proliferation of guns, Mayor Adams said. An off-duty officer was shot and wounded on his way to work, the work of protecting New Yorkers. He added, The work Officer Mora was doing when he was killed in the line of duty.

Mr. Adams, a former police captain, said the city was facing a battle of New York against the killers, and it would not lose that battle.
Micrograph showing cortical pseudolaminar necrosis, a finding seen in strokes on medical imaging and at autopsy. H&E-LFB stain. Credit: Nephron/Wikipedia

Time to arrival at the hospital after recurrent stroke appears to vary according to stroke history, age, race and marital status, according to preliminary research to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2022.

The faster patients receive stroke treatment, the better the odds of recovery because, on average, 1.9 million brain cells die every minute that a stroke goes untreated, according to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association. Patients who used Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived at the hospital sooner and received quicker evaluations and stroke treatment. The causes for delayed hospital arrivals were not specifically examined in this study, however, they may include limited awareness of stroke signs and symptoms, the urgency of immediate care and the need to call 911, as well as social determinants of health and structural racism.

Researchers analyzed first-time and recurrent stroke cases from the Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi (BASIC) project between January 1, 2000 to January 1, 2020. Patients were categorized by first-ever strokes (more than 5,600 adults); recurrent stroke within one year of the first event (nearly 260 patients); and recurrent stroke, happening more than one year after the first one (more than 2,000 individuals).

Researchers examined hospital arrival within three hours of the start of stroke symptoms and whether patients arrived at the hospital by EMS. Individual electronic health records were reviewed closely to find key factors that may have played the strongest role in how quickly stroke patients arrived at the hospital.

"We then determined if there was a difference in hospital arrival within three hours and EMS usage among the people in the first and recurrent stroke groups, after considering variables such as stroke severity, marital status, race/ethnicity and gender," said lead study author Braydon Dymm, M.D., a fourth-year neurology resident at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Researchers found:

Among people experiencing stroke, they were more likely to arrive at the hospital earlier if the stroke was more severe, if the person having the stroke was married or living with a partner, or if EMS provided transportation to the hospital.

Black adults experiencing stroke had 34% lower odds of hospital arrival within 3 hours of symptoms compared to non-Hispanic white adults, even though Black adults were about twice as likely to call EMS compared to white adults.

Across all study participants, including first stroke or recurrent stroke patients, those who were married and living with a partner had 18% lower odds of using EMS compared to peers who were single.

"After accounting for several variables, most importantly the size and severity of the stroke, there were no notable differences in early hospital arrival time or use of EMS, even for strokes that happened within a year of the first stroke," Dymm said. "These results suggest the need for more information about stroke signs and symptoms may be a factor, along with various others, facing adults from all racial and ethnic backgrounds. We need to investigate this further so we can develop appropriate supports to improve hospital arrival and stroke outcomes."

A limitation of the study is that these findings are from one research location, Corpus Christi, Texas and may not be generalizable across the U.S. Other limitations are the relatively small number of recurrent strokes within a year and knowledge about stroke symptoms and emergency care were not specifically measured.

"Once a stroke has occurred, timely arrival to the hospital is the single-most important factor that can improve outcomes and reduce disability," said Mitchell S.V. Elkind, M.D., M.S., FAHA, FAAN, immediate past president of the American Heart Association and professor of neurology and epidemiology at Columbia University in New York City. "Improving equity in stroke care includes understanding the many barriers that may impact EMS use. Health care costs, community and cultural barriers to receiving health care and emergency services, and factors related to social determinants of health and structural racism may also influence people, particularly those who are from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, in ways that are not currently measured or are difficult to measure. The results of this study confirm a significant gap in use of EMS, which is the best option when a stroke is suspected. We need to help get stroke patients to the hospital as quickly as possible for treatment, and therefore, they will be more likely to have better recovery and quality of life."

In the U.S., stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability, according to the latest data from the American Heart Association. To recognize stroke symptoms requiring immediate treatment, the American Stroke Association recommends everyone remember the acronym F.A.S.T. for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 9-1-1.

Explore further Study finds Hispanic people receive lower-quality thrombectomies than white people
LILLE, France (AP)  European Union interior ministers on Thursday agreed to create a new decision-making body amid efforts to beef up the 27-nation blocs borders, and to kick-start desperately needed reforms to the EUs malfunctioning asylum system on a step-by-step basis.

The EU has been mired in a deep political crisis since well over 1 million people, many of them refugees fleeing war in Syria, began entering in 2015. Greece was overwhelmed by migrants landing on its islands on rafts and dinghies from Turkey. Other countries were slow or reluctant to help.

The old asylum system, based on the notion that the country where migrants first arrive must deal with them, collapsed. New reform proposals have failed to overcome the fundamental problem  who should take responsibility and what kind of help other countries should provide.

France, which currently holds the EUs rotating presidency, is trying to reenergize the sweeping reform plan by tackling parts of it at a time.

At talks in Lille, in northern France, EU interior ministers agreed to discuss changes step-by-step, starting next month. French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, who acknowledged divisions, said the idea was to change the method because the 'all or nothing' strategy until now was mostly leading to nothing."

The first step will consist in setting up a mechanism to support EU nations where migrants first arrive. The so-called solidarity principle will be mandatory, Darmanin detailed. It will mean EU nations will have to accept taking asylum seekers or to provide financial support, he said.

Discussions look to be challenging, Darmanin acknowledged, especially when they will focus on numbers of asylum seekers to be allocated to member states and on the amount of the financial support.

In addition, EU nations approved a proposal from French President Emmanuel Macron to create a new body, the Schengen Council. It will gather members of the passport-free travel area so they can make decisions on migration policies, including preventing difficulties and bringing a quick response in case of crisis. The first meeting will be held on March 3.

Story continues

The Schengen area comprises 26 countries  including non-EU nations Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. During the pandemic, many Schengen nations erected temporary border controls that went contrary to the zones freedom of movement precept.

The European Unions Home Affairs commissioner, Ylva Johansson, praised the new body as a great achievement, saying it will help strengthening the political governance of Schengen.

In Lille, the ministers also were to discuss new proposals to respond to what have been dubbed hybrid attacks using migrants, after Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko last summer invited thousands of people, many of them Iraqis, to Belarus with the promise of helping them to Europe.

Lithuania and Poland, notably, are working on border barriers to keep people out, and have also changed their national asylum rules to make it harder for people to stay. The EUs executive branch, the European Commission, has made a series of proposals that countries can use in an emergency.

In a document laying out national positions on the proposals, which has been seen by The Associated Press, a strong minority of countries favor the use of walls or fences to stop people entering, and some argue that EU money should be used to pay for the barriers.

Denmark, for example, suggests a reference in the reform plans to the funding opportunities for physical barriers under the Border Management and Visa Instrument (BMVI), given that the European Councils legal service has made it clear that it is possible to fund physical barriers from the EU budget.

The European Commission, which holds the EUs purse strings and is responsible for proposing joint legislation and ensuring that the rules are respected, has long opposed the use of European money to fund walls, which several officials have said are not in line with the blocs values.

The Belarus border crisis was only the latest to affect EU external borders.

In early 2020, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe, Turkey allowed thousands of migrants to move through its territory towards Greece and Bulgaria, triggering violent clashes at their borders.

In May 2021, the sudden arrival of some 10,000 migrants to the small Spanish enclave of Ceuta, on the northern African coast, came amid a diplomatic row between Rabat and Madrid over Western Sahara.

In France, the interior ministry said 52,000 migrants tried to cross the Channel last year, marking a record. More than half are estimated to have reach Britain according to UK government figures.

___

Lorne Cook reported from Brussels.

___

Follow all AP stories on global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. - A former high school teacher in New Jersey has pleaded guilty to improperly trying to influence a tenure vote.

George Chilmonik, who was a teacher at Phillipsburg High School, pleaded guilty Wednesday to a count of conspiracy to commit official misconduct, according to a news release from the Warren County Prosecutor's Office.

On April 26, 2021, Chilmonik was charged with conspiring with others to threaten to release embarrassing information about another Phillipsburg School District employee, unless that employee took action consistent with their demands to influence a tenure vote, the prosecutor's office said.

As a result of his plea and the cooperation he provided to the investigation, he will be entered into the Pre-Trial Intervention program, according to the news release.

The Warren County Prosecutors Office conducted the investigation alongside the New Jersey State Police Official Corruption North Unit.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) has announced her intent to run again for her congressional seat in November, but she made no mention of her plans for her leadership post. (Shawn Thew / Associated Press)

When House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced her reelection bid last week, it was a sign that Democrats may be in limbo for another nine months before knowing who their next leader will be.

Pelosi, 81, has been the No. 1 Democrat in the House since 2003. The San Francisco lawmaker announced her intent in 2018 to abide by term limits for senior leadership positions, meaning her tenure would end this year.

But when announcing her intent to run again for her congressional seat in November, she made no mention of what she will do after the election in terms of her leadership post.

Colleagues declined to comment publicly about the sensitive issue of Democratic House leadership. But several lawmakers said they were not surprised Pelosi left the question open, given her reluctance to make herself a lame duck and the need for Democrats to focus on passing legislation rather than fighting over leadership.

She cant announce that shes not running in the middle of a session because it basically neuters her for getting anything else done, said a member who requested anonymity to speak candidly.

The question is: Does she change her mind later on? the member added. And really, at the end of the day, the people that mostly objected to her back in the day have either moved on or have literally left Congress. We just have to wait and see.

Many House Democrats expect Pelosi to honor her commitment, meaning the caucus could elect a new speaker or minority leader for the first time in 20 years not named Pelosi. But others think the final outcome could hinge on how Democrats fare in November. And in any case, that conversation probably won't commence publicly until after the election, they say.

Right now, everybodys so focused on today and now and whats happening this year, said Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara). Obviously, as we transition to a new Congress in the upcoming year, those discussions and posturings and all those issues will no doubt come forward and transpire. But I havent been involved in too many discussions like that. 

Story continues

At a caucus meeting Wednesday, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo delivered a presentation on Democrats America COMPETES Act, a legislative package that includes investments in research, innovation and American manufacturing.

The bill was the total dominant subject of the meeting, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) said. None of our members brought [Pelosis reelection] up.

Congress also has a Feb. 18 deadline to fund the government, and Democrats hope to revive some aspects of President Bidens climate and social spending package, dubbed the Build Back Better Act.

House Democrats have a 222-212 majority over Republicans, who are likely to retain the seat recently vacated by Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare) in an upcoming special election. But nearly 30 Democrats have already announced retirements, and more could lose their seats in primaries and general elections.

House Democrats are clear-eyed about their dim prospects of expanding or even retaining their narrow majority. Though things could change, Republicans are favored to win control of the House in the fall following their unexpected gains in the chamber in 2020, despite losing the White House and control of the Senate.

We know its going to be uphill, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Fremont) said in a recent interview. No one is delusional, given the challenges the country faces and given the fact that a president always has a tough time in the first midterm. But what gives us hope is we have a good record to run on.

The battle to replace Pelosi is likely to be a three-person race among two of her top lieutenants, Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (D-Md.) and Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-S.C.), and a third ascendant leader, Democratic Caucus Chair Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.).

Hoyer, 82, who is working from home this week after testing positive for the coronavirus Tuesday, has been Pelosis loyal No. 2 since 2003. He could lean on the relationships hes built over the years while also making the case that working so closely with Pelosi for two decades makes him the best person for the job.

Clyburn, 81, the highest-ranking Black Democrat in the House, joined the leadership trio in 2007. Jeffries, 51, became the No. 5 House Democrat in 2019. If either ascended to speaker or minority leader, it would be historic. No Black member of Congress has ever served in either role.

Clyburns timely endorsement of Biden in South Carolinas 2020 Democratic primary saved his campaign, and Clyburn is leaning on his ties with the president to elevate home-state District Judge J. Michelle Childs in the conversation about Bidens imminent historic nomination of a Black female jurist to sit on the high court.

Jeffries, the youngest top contender, is positioned as the generational change candidate. Hes gained leadership experience as caucus chair and worked with then-Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) on the bipartisan First Step Act, which President Trump signed into law in 2018.

I believe it would be highly unlikely for Hoyer or Clyburn to remain in their positions, another member said. Its either up or out. Theyre either going to run for speaker or theyre going to get challenged, and they will likely lose their positions, because I think the caucus is wanting a change.

Other members who have been mentioned in the leadership discussion include Reps. Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), the assistant speaker; Pete Aguilar (D-Redlands), Democratic Caucus vice chair; Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Congressional Progressive Caucus chair; and Adam B. Schiff (D-Burbank), the House Intelligence Committee chairman.

One retiring member predicted fundraising prowess will be a factor, calling the top Democratic position a money-raising post.

If you cant raise money, youre not going to be seen as attractive a candidate, the member said. [Pelosi] is the biggest fundraiser that anyone in the caucus has seen, ever. On the other hand, theres a lot of interest in getting new blood.

Pelosi raised $12.3 million last year, and her GOP counterpart, Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield), brought in $13.2 million. Hoyer raised $1.9 million, Clyburn $1.8 million and Jeffries $3 million.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Knowing all this, isnt it about time we do something? Hmmm. Dont Look Up turns on one of the most vexing aspects of the crisis: Stating the data, shouting it even, often fails to move people, though the film is largely incurious about why. One of the stories we tell ourselves about global warming is that we need only listen to the science. When this does not work, we are supplied with more science  more glacier drone shots, more projections of soaring temperatures, more scary stories about dead bees. In the book Being Ecological, Morton calls this ecological information dump mode, in which an expert commences shaking your lapels while yelling disturbing facts. But even this seemingly rational approach stokes an irrational fantasy: that we have a certain amount of time left to stop global warming  just as soon as we get our heads around whats going on.

The word apocalypse is derived from the Latin for revelation, and our current predicament draws out the irony of that double meaning, as we mistake obsessing about the end of the world for acting on it. Lizzie, the narrator of Jenny Offills 2020 cli-fi novel Weather, is an information person: a Brooklyn librarian who assists the host of a cult-hit global warming podcast called Hell or High Water. The podcast is soothing to me even though she talks only of the invisible horsemen galloping toward us, Lizzie says. The more Lizzie doomscrolls about climate change, the more she turns away from the outside world, lurking on survivalist forums and planning her family doomstead.

Weather sketches a scene of intellectual preppers, hoarding information about global warming as if cramming for a cosmic test. But the more information they find, the more they are able to tailor it to satisfy their own egos. In Weather, a podcast listener waves off talk of melting glaciers and asks: But whats going to happen to the American weather?

A parable unfolds along these lines in the final season of Search Party: The shows crew of millennial narcissists found a Brooklyn start-up called Lyte, which manufactures an enlightenment pill with the unfortunate side-effect of turning people into zombies. As the groups craven pursuit of consumerist illumination inadvertently hastens the apocalypse, the egomaniacal imp Dory (Alia Shawkat) tries to explain that she just wanted to help people, but all that comes out is this: I just wanted 
Season 1, Episode 10

I can stay here and write about my life, or I can go with him and live my life!

You mean his life.

Remember that fight from Season 6 of Sex and the City? Did some of the conversation between Carrie and Miranda in this weeks episode of And Just Like That  feel familiar?

In the finale of this season  or, perhaps, of the revival series altogether (a renewal has not yet been announced)  we discover that things are getting serious between Miranda and Che. Che, who is nonbinary and uses they/them singular pronouns, invites Miranda to meet their family, but instead of the sit-down dinner Miranda is expecting, she finds herself at a hip little nightclub with Ches two grandmas. Che takes the stage and breaks into a cover of California Girls just before announcing to the crowd, and to Miranda, that they are headed to Los Angeles to film a pilot.

The news stuns Miranda, but its even more stunning to her that Che wants her to come along. And whats maybe even more stunning, at least to Mirandas inner circle, is that she wants to go. This is absolutely un-Miranda-like. She is in the middle of grad school with a killer internship at Human Rights Watch on the horizon, and she certainly isnt known for taking time off. To go with Che is spontaneous and maybe even irresponsible, but ever since meeting Che, Mirandas pragmatism has let go of the wheel. She wants to be with Che  whatever that takes  so she is going.
PM Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan intends to seize new territories from Armenia

Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

Bloomberg: UK intends to sign agreement on LNG supplies from U.S. for up to 20 years

China's former justice minister sentenced to death

Jermuk: Changes in Jermuk resort town after Azerbaijani attack (photo report)

Jermuk-Yerevan-Jermuk shuttle service already operating

Armenian Genocide Memorials Memory Ally area to be expanded

Biden to Pashinyan: We remain committed to promote peaceful resolution to conflict, including for people of Karabakh

Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

Aggression-affected IDPs from Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor to be provided with financial assistance

Peskov declines to comment on his son's refusal to report to military registration and enlistment office

Belgian parliamentary delegation visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

Peskov comments on reports of agitation at airports and checkpoints

Russia air carrier to conduct additional flights to Armenia, Turkey

Kazakhstan parliament passes law to exclude Day of First President from state holidays

US Congressman Schiff: These atrocities will continue until international community condemns Aliyev

Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

Senator: the U.S. must stop providing security assistance to Azerbaijan

Armenia, Finland FMs discuss Karabakh conflict settlement process

CSTO Secretary General, Armenia army chief discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

Armenia FM to Red Cross president: Azerbaijan crimes impunity makes aggressor more reckless (PHOTOS)

Greece politician condemns Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

Iran, Russia and China to hold joint naval drills

Iran army chief: We will not allow changes in borders in region

Parliament speaker: We expect our Belgian colleagues to continue efforts for Armenian POWs return from Azerbaijan

Karabakh FM discusses Artsakh foreign policy with group of US Congress members, senators

Relatives of those who died and those who were injured in Yerevan market explosion to get one-time financial aid

Copper rises in price

Truss says Russia is not threatened by anyone

Crime report is sent to Armenia Prosecutor General regarding recent harassment toward reporters in parliament

Armenia FM to International Crisis Group head: Azerbaijan trying to achieve its maximalist demands by using force

Gold prices fall below $1670 per ounce

Borrell announces new sanctions on Russia because of referendums

Oil prices move to some growth

Blinken says US will continue to support Ukraine

Newspaper: Armenia 3 ex-presidents, Catholicos to meet soon

Armenia FM in New York, meets with UN Secretary General special adviser on genocide prevention

Russian soldiers are exchanged with 215 Ukrainian POWs

Newspaper: PM urges political teammates not to do anything drastic regarding topic of Armenia leaving CSTO

Bulgaria gets closer to buying the second batch of eight new F-16s

Armenia FM to Sweden counterpart: International community must restrain Azerbaijan military aggression

FM briefs Nicaragua colleague on consequences of Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

2 of 3 injured in Yerevan market damaged building collapse discharged from hospital

Britain decides to revise its defense and security plan

Iranian parliament says border violation due to aggravation between Armenia and Azerbaijan unacceptable

Pashinyan leaves for New York

Biden not to restrict imports of neodymium magnets from China

No threat to life of serviceman wounded by Azerbaijani Armed Forces shelling

EU's desire for independence from Russian gas will lead to slowdown of economy, rising inflation and fall of euro

Biden to release 10 million barrels of oil ahead of EU ban on Russian oil

Earthquake in Iran felt in Armenia

Armenian Defense Ministry: Azerbaijan opens fire at Armenian positions, one wounded

EU begins to develop new sanctions against Russia

Canada is committed to further deepening bilateral relations and supporting strengthening of democracy in Armenia

MEPs investigating use of spyware by EU governments criticize Poland and Israel

Union of Armenians of Russia plans to send help to Armenia, Ara Abrahamyan holds meetings with Russian leadership

Armenian FM meets with USAID Director

Germany, Slovenia sign agreement for Slovenia to send 28 Soviet tanks to Ukraine

Azerbaijani president makes aggressive statements about Armenia
HARRISBURG, Pa. - The landmark trial that could determine a new course for public education funding in Pennsylvania continues on.

The defendants - many of them Republican legislative leaders - began calling their own witnesses Wednesday, following eight weeks of plaintiff testimony with 29 witnesses.

The lawsuit brought by six school districts, including Shenandoah Valley in Schuylkill County, says the current funding system violates the state Constitution.

Defense attorney Anthony Holtzman, representing Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman, called Reverend Aaron Anderson, CEO and Head of School for the Logos Academy in York County, a small religious school.

Two-thirds of his students are at or below the poverty line. The school relies heavily on the Educational Improvement and Opportunity Scholarship tax programs to provide scholarships. Critics say the programs take tax revenue from the state and encourage families to leave public schools, and there's no way to track if they're actually helping poor families.

Also on Wednesday, the teacher advocacy group PA Schools Work held a virtual news conference, saying there's a $4.6 billion adequacy shortfall and they want the state to spend surplus funds on education.

"State lawmakers haven't really tried to claim the funding system provides equitable resources. Instead, they resorted to blaming poor students for inferior outcomes and questioning whether they really need comprehensive education," said Laura Boyce, Pennsylvania Executive Director at Teach Plus.

The organization says its mission is to empower excellent, experienced, and diverse teachers to take leadership over key policy and practice issues that advance equity, opportunity, and student success.

"We're in a position to address these shortfalls in a way that we've never been able to do it and with the lawsuit going on we are in a unique position to finally make sure schools are adequately and equitably funded," said Tomea Sippio-Smith, K-12 Education Policy Director with Children First.

Children First says it advocates for quality health care, child care, public education and family stability.

Court is adjourned until 9 a.m. Thursday.
Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast, Getty

Donald Trump has earned a reputation as perhaps the most litigious American politician in living memory. But, while that defining characteristic has not changed since he left office a year ago, Trumps most recent campaign finance filings reveal a sharp and dramatic drop in legal expenses.

Its not because hes involved in any fewer legal battles, however. Its because he got someone else to start picking up the tab.

According to financial disclosures filed on Monday, Trump-affiliated committees paid their various lawyers and firms a combined $2.3 million for their services between July 1 and Dec. 31. That may seem like a lotand in absolute terms it is for any politicianbut the amount is actually less than 30 percent of the $8 million in legal expenses Trumps political groups incurred during the first half of the year.

And yet, while Trump was cutting back, the Republican National Committee saw an unusual off-year bump. When the national party ledgers closed on Dec. 31, they had racked up more than $5.3 million in legal fees during the back half of 2021a marked increase over the first half of the year, and more than double Trumps own costs over the same period.

Republican Party Hands Trump $1.6M to Fund Mounting Pile of Legal Fights, Says Report

Thats because, in August, for reasons still unknown to the public, RNC officials agreed to cover $1.6 million of Trumps upcoming legal fees. The RNC claimed that at least part of the pledge would fund Trumps defense against ongoing criminal and civil investigations into his business practicespractices which predate his candidacy for office.

Or, in the words of an RNC spokesperson, certain legal expenses that related to politically motivated legal proceedings waged against [ex-]President Trump.

And that $1.6 million largesse lines up fairly closely with the $1.1 million spike in the RNCs legal fees.

A review of RNC filings since August shows that the committee has, in that time, paid more than a million dollars to firms who have recently represented Trump in legal disputes. However, the incestuous overlap between committees and law firms makes it difficult to know for sure how close the RNC is to tapping out its $1.6 million budget.

Story continues

Of course, in the light of the previous $8 million splurge, Trumps most recent $2.3 million six-month total may seem reasonableeven more so when stacked against the $7.2 million in legal costs the ex-presidents donors shelled out to bankroll the eight-week pseudo-litigation blitz between Election Day and the end of 2020. During that period, Trump spent an astounding $125,000 a day.

But step outside of the MAGAverse and perspective reasserts itselfwith a vengeance.

FEC data shows that President Joe Bidens affiliated political committees paid his lawyers a combined $403,000 over the course of 2021. Thats about 4 percent of Trumps total over the same period. The Democratic National Committee also eased back on the legal throttle after the inauguration.

Trump Sails Away as Rudy Giuliani Drowns in Legal Bills

But unlike Biden, Trump has a confounding network of affiliated groups. Still, when it comes to legal costs, its Trumps old campaign committeere-christened as Make America Great Again PACthat still bears the brunt.

In the first half of the year, MAGA PACs legal fees accounted for the vast majority of Trumps spendingabout $7.8 million of $8 million. Over the last six months, the committee accounted for another $1.7 million, or about three of every four dollars the full Trump apparatus spent on legal costs.

Trumps Save America leadership PAC shelled out another $241,000. And his Save America joint fundraising committee ponied up another $105,000all of it to Elections, LLC, a joint effort between three top campaign aides which reaped millions from Trump-aligned groups last year.

Another official Trump fundraising vehicle, Trump Victory, is reportedly shutting down. But over the last six months, it still sent about $114,000 worth of business to GOP megafirm Jones Day. That firmthe past and present home of Trumps former White House Counsel Don McGahnrepresented the campaign in a bizarre trademark dispute over its now anachronistic Keep America Great! tagline.

But while the legal world revolves around money, when it comes to explaining the root of Trumps legal billsand why the costs ebb and flownumbers alone dont set much of a scene.

Its telling, then, that one of the Trump firms that had a banner year in 2021 did so while representing the campaign in a major defeat.

The culmination of that lawsuita nondisclosure dispute with former campaign official Jessica Densonwas more than two years in the making. The loss in arbitration court last spring dealt a crippling blow to the ex-presidents efforts to gag disgruntled associates. But the New York firm leading the campaigns defense in the matter cashed in about $200,000 in the first six months of 2021and then saw another $272,000 on the back end of the year, when Trump lost another headline-making NDA dispute in arbitration.

President Trump Has Used $58.4 Million in Campaign Donations for Legal Bills: NYT

Trumps arch pettiness was also on full display in the recent filings. For instance, his old campaign committee threw nearly $100,000 into defending a copyright lawsuit brought by musician Eddy Grant over the use of his 1982 hit, Electric Avenue. It took the campaign more than a year to even file a response to Grants original complaint, which it only did in November. The argument apparently did not takethe suit is set to be settled in March.

The twin New York investigations into the Trump Organization also bore their first fruit later in the year, in the form of a June indictment against the company and its top money man, Alan Weisselberg. The Daily Beast later reported that, over the following months, a number of Trumps star attorneys bolted from the stables. One of them, Marc Mukaseywho in September abandoned the Trump Organization to the New York attorney generals investigationsaw a possibly final $22,000 payout come his way in October.

More high, and silent, drama can be found reading between the lines of legal payouts after last Octobers shakeup at the only Trump-endorsed super PAC. The groups chair, longtime Trump confidant Corey Lewandowski, had allegedly sexually assaulted a donor at a fundraising eventan infraction too serious even for Lewandowski, who Trump aides believed had long outlived his strangely charmed welcome in MAGAland.

That super PAC had never reported any legal costs previously. Over the next few days, it paid out $100,000.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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CEDAR FALLS -- Waterloo Mayor Quentin Hart, Cedar Falls City Councilman Dave Sires, the Rev. Abraham Funchess and bluesman Kevin Burt have their moments in a new psychological thriller filmed in the Cedar Valley and Chicago.

Without You will be previewed Monday in a pair of showings at 5:30 and 8 p.m. at Marcus Theatres in Cedar Falls. Tickets are $10.

Independent filmmakers Greg Holt and Paco Rosic will be in the house waiting for audience response. This is their first full-length feature film, although theyve collaborated on several film projects, including a short feature, Inspired Mind, and a documentary, Hopian: Slow Moving Change in Americas Heartland.

Its exciting, and its been an interesting journey, said Holt, who wrote the screenplay and directed the action. He is artistic director at the Waterloo Community Playhouse and has extensive directing and acting experience.

Rosic, the cinematographer and film editor, has had considerable success as an aerosol artist, painter and photographer, including worldwide recognition for his spray paint homage to the Sistine Chapel at the Galleria de Paco in downtown Waterloo.

For me, I think of, as a kid, going to the movies. Its a different way to express myself as an artist  frame by frame. Im proud of this, said Rosic.

Holt began writing the screenplay in 2020, making at least seven revisions and constantly tweaking scenes as filming began. It starts out a little like a romance. Our lead character Calvin (Jakob Reha) thinks hes found the girl of his dreams (Mikayla Wahl as Addy). Long buried secrets and sinister forces threaten far more than the couples happiness. And despite Calvins attempts to protect Addy, she is a girl ready to protect herself no matter what the cost," Holt explained.

It started out as his story, but it turned into more her story, we see how Calvin perceives it. Once you start filming and the actors take it and Paco takes it and shapes it on film, the script becomes something that is unique.

Rosic and his film unit began filming in February 2021 and wrapped the final retakes in July. He shot in numerous Waterloo and Cedar Falls locations, including Lincoln Perk, Cup of Joe, National Cigar Store, Tonys LaPizzeria, the Blue Room Bar, Courtyard by Marriott, Main Street Fitness and many others. Several scenes and B-roll footage  supplementary film for establishing a shot or cutaways -- were filmed in Rochester, Minnesota, and Chicago along Lakeside Drive, the Wrigleyville neighborhood around Wrigley Field and the subway system.

Kevin Burt and Dan Waterbury wrote original music for the movie, and Burt performs in bar scenes. There are eight main cast members, 19 actors with significant roles, Holt said, and numerous extras. Sires plays a character named Lucky Jack, while Funchess is a detective and Waterloo Mayor Hart is accidentally doused with a drink at a bar. Area and regional actors play numerous supporting roles or appear as extras, including Joe Frenna, Tony Tomlyanovich, Ashton Denton, Angelle Waltz, Roberto Estrella, Bob Filllipone, Will Frost and JKalien Madison. Rosic and Holt briefly appear in the movie, as well.

Ben Stroh and Howard Allen are executive producers for the movie, and Olivia Hottle-Mossman was production manager.

After filming wrapped, Rosic spent more than 700 hours editing the footage, adding special effects and crafting the film. Following Mondays previews, Rosic and Holt will continue to fine tune the film in preparation for submitting Without You to festivals around the country.

Its hard to teach an old dog new tricks, but its been nice to push the boundaries and find new frontiers and challenge myself in new ways that is invigorating. It shook up my status quo. Making a movie is humbling. We had a lot to learn, and making the film turned out to be a mini film school, said Holt.

Rosic agreed. It was good experience for the next one," adding that he strives for a painterly quality to the film. "Its tough to get each scene to look like a masterpiece. Im not to that point yet, but Im pushing myself for our next movie.

The filmmakers have already started on their next film project  another thriller  with plans for statewide auditions.
A devastated former student of an embattled Brisbane Christian school says the decision to scrap a controversial contract deeming homosexuality a 'sin' will not change discrimination on campus.

Felicity Myers was delighted to learn Citipointe Christian College on Thursday aborted plans to force parents to sign a contract denouncing homosexuality and promising students would conform to gender roles.

The major backflip came after days of intense scrutiny and backlash - from both the public and within the ranks - with some teachers resigning and parents complaining to Queensland's Human Rights Commission.

Although pleased by the swiftly retraction, Ms Myers said there is 'still so much more to be done' to address the school's culture.

'I wish I could say it will be fine, that kids will go to school on Monday and everything will be fine and none of these teachings will be brought up, [but] unfortunately, I don't believe this is a change that will come overnight,' she told The Project on Thursday.

Former Citipointe Christian College student Felicity Myers (pictured outside the college) says the school is unlikely to radically change its culture despite the homophobia scandal

'Knowing how cultures work in an environment like that.. it is going to take a lot of time.'

Ms Myers claimed the Carindale-based school was instead likely to double down on its religious teachings in light of the scandal.

'I know for a fact they [the teachings] will [continue], and be taught even more so,' she said.

'Culture comes from the influences up the top, so it is going to take a lot on their behalf to actually acknowledge what is going on and to take a stand.'

Fighting back tears, Ms Myers said her 'heart breaks' for every child who still has to go to the school and be chastised over their sexual orientation.

Addressing students who will head back next week, Ms Myers said 'sorry you have to go back into that environment' but 'know you're not alone'.

'I've been there, done that, I know how hard it is,' she said.

'Know there are thousands upon thousands of people who do support and love you.'

The show's host Waleed Aly asked whether fighting the motion may have been counterproductive as the saga's publicity could attract families with similar views to enroll their children at the school.

Citipointe Christian College on Thursday announced it had revoked its contract after copping widespread backlash

A section of the contract which states that homosexual acts are 'sinful and offensive to God and is destructive to human relationships and society'

Ms Myers said the school's culture was unlikely to change immediately, despite the scandal. Pictured: Citipointe students gathered around a cross at the college

Ms Myers said that could be a possibly but she hopes by advocates, such as herself, continuing to push for change cultural issues will eventually be quashed.

Citipointe's 'declaration of faith' contract described homosexual acts among a list of other forms of 'sexual immorality', including adultery, fornication, bisexual acts, bestiality, paedophilia, and pornography, that are 'sinful and offensive to God'.

It also stated the college would only acknowledge biological sex, not gender, and asks parents to agree with this statement or face exclusion of a student.

'Failure to agree to the terms will afford Citipointe Christian College the right to exclude a student from the College who no longer adheres to the College's doctrinal precepts including those as to biological sex,' it read.

The school faced a possible review of its state funding and anti-discrimination action over the contracts sent to parents last week.

The Non-State Schools Accreditation Board was set to review the documents, about which complaints have also been lodged with the Queensland Human Rights Commission.

However, Citipointe principal Brian Mulherin revoked the enrolment contracts on Thursday, saying parents wouldn't have to sign them.

He apologised about the documents, and to gay and transgender students.

'We deeply regret that some students feel that they would be discriminated against because of their sexuality or gender identity, and I apologise to them and their families,' Pastor Mulherin said in a statement.

Citipointe Christian College's principal, Pastor Brian Mulheran (pictured) previously said the school had tried to be 'clear and transparent' about its Christian beliefs in the new enrolment contract

'As stated previously, the college does not and will not discriminate against any student because of their sexuality or gender identity.

'It is central to our faith that being gay or transgender in no way diminishes a person's humanity or dignity in God's eyes.'

The principal said reports that Citipointe students had been 'vilified in the community' had driven his decision.

'I hope that by withdrawing the contract we can return all of our focus to the Christian education of our students as we begin this new year,' Pastor Mulherin said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Queensland Education Minister Grace Grace, who has a non-binary child, opposed the contracts.

Ms Grace welcomed Citipointe's announcement on Thursday, saying the documents should go for good.

Former Citipointe Christian College student Felicity Myers went to for an impromptu rally on Monday

'Can I obviously urge - in the interests of the mental welfare of students, staff, parents and carers and in the public interest - that they abandon these contracts and that they never resurface again,' Ms Grace told reporters.

Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Citipointe contracts discriminated against certain students.

'I don't support that,' Mr Morrison told radio B105.

'My kids go to a Christian school here in Sydney and I wouldn't want my school doing that either.'

The federal government has been trying to get its religious discrimination bill, aimed at protecting people expressing statements of religious belief from anti-discrimination laws, through parliament.

However, the prime minister promised an amendment would ensure schools couldn't discriminate against same-sex attracted and gender-diverse students.

'I've been saying that for years, that's always been my view,' Mr Morrison said.

'I think school should be ... you send your kids to a Christian school, or a Muslim school, or a Jewish school or whatever it is, that should be able to teach kids in that way, but that's a notion (discriminatory contracts) that I don't support.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Citipointe Christian College for comment.
Chennai, Feb 3 : Forty people from eight Dalit families in Theni, southern Tamil Nadu have embraced Islam after they found living amongst the upper caste Hindus a nightmare.

The conversion occurred a couple of days before at Dombicheri village in Bodinayakanur town in Theni district and Islamic priests solemnised the conversion.

Incidentally, Bodinayakanur is the constituency of the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and senior leader of the AIADMK, O. Panneerselvam.

Those converted said that they were continuously attacked by Upper caste Hindus who don't allow them to drink tea or coffee from local restaurants and wayside tea shops citing the lower caste status. The neo converts charge that while the men were beaten up, the Dalit girls were teased and lewd comments and gestures were made at them while they were walking on the streets.

Rahima (32) who was earlier Veeralakshmi while speaking to IANS said: "We are forced to convert. We are being teased, beaten, insulted, and not being allowed to walk in the same street where Upper caste Hindus walk. Our parents and grandparents suffered this ignominy and we decided that enough is enough. We are now Muslims and we don't find any demarcation here." The converted people alleged that the upper caste Hindus attack them regularly and once in every six months some or other incidents of violence against the Dalits were reported in the village of Dombucheri.

Raheema's husband Mohammed Ismail, who was Kalaikannan earlier, said that he was beaten up in November 2021 during the Deepavali celebrations by upper caste men and he decided to convert to Islam after the incident. He said that he was mercilessly beaten up when he bought a motorbike, by the upper caste men and said that the Dalits in the villages of Tamil Nadu were living a life of misery.

Mohammed Ali Jinnah, Tamil Puligal Party's Theni north secretary told IANS that he was Varimuthu earlier and converted to Islam fifteen years ago. He said: "The reason for conversion is nothing but the atrocities on Dalits by the caste Hindus. We were not even allowed to walk on the streets through which they walk. Since fifteen years, I am getting respect after converting to Islam and this is what a man wants." However, Hindu Munnani denied the upper caste atrocities being the reason behind conversions and said that Islamist parties like the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) and its offshoot Popular Front of India (PFI) are forcing people to convert to Islam by luring them with several freebies and those who resist are threatened.

Arjun while speaking to IANS said: "We are reaching out to the Dombucheri village people of Theni district. We will convince them against this and all will be well within a few days." It may be recalled that in Meenakshipuram village of Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, 180 Dalit Pallavar families had converted to Islam on February 19, 1981, creating a major uproar across the country and international media had also reported on the untouchability that was dormant in India. Those who converted to Islam alleged that they were attacked by the majority Thevar community and that conversion was their last resort to escape the torment at the hands of upper-caste Hindus.

However, interestingly, ten years after the conversion by 1991 almost 900 people of 1100 converted from 180 families returned to the Hindu fold citing a lack of fulfillment of promises.

The new religious conversion row to Islam is following the Madras High Court ordering a CBI inquiry into the suicide death of a Plus two girl student alleging forced religious conversion. The BJP and Hindu Munnani had come out strongly on the matter.
Bulandshahr: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday (February 3) said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will form a government in Uttar Pradesh with a two-third majority. While addressing a public meeting in Anupshahar, "I am sure that this time also in Uttar Pradesh, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yogi Adityanath is going to become the Chief Minister with a two-thirds majority."

The Home Minister said that all mafia from Uttar Pradesh is either in jail, have left the state, or are there in the Samajwadi Party`s list of candidates.

"We had said that we will free western Uttar Pradesh from the mafia and have done what we told. Today no mafia in the entire Uttar Pradesh has the courage to do anything wrong. Mother and sisters are completely safe. In the last five years, there has been an exodus of mafia under the BJP rule."

Mafia of Uttar Pradesh is now only three places. Either out of state or in jail or eager to become MLA in Akhilesh Yadav`s list. Our Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done the work of straightening the mafia by turning it upside down," said Shah.

The BJP leader said that the party has worked for the transformation of Uttar Pradesh and Modi has done the work of securing the country.

"Crores of rupees are being recovered in the raids of their loved ones. That money belonged to SP goons. BJP has worked to transform Uttar Pradesh. PM Modi has done the work of securing the country. If the BJP government is formed in Uttar Pradesh, then the hands of Modi will be strong," he said.

"In a raid at perfume trader, Rs 250 crore was recovered. Now Akhilesh has a problem that why Modi is giving orders to conduct raids. Akhilesh, what is your problem with raid?" he added.

Shah further said that after the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir not even a single stone was pelted at that time.

"Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Congress opposed the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and had said that there would be violence there, but not even a single stone was pelted at that time. Today Kashmir is an integral part of Mother India. When Congress, SP was in the BSP government, terrorists used to come from Pakistan, take away the heads of soldiers. Today no terrorist dares to do anything," said the Union Minister.

He further said that PM Modi did work of securing the country. "Responding to the attack in Pulwama, PM Modi did a surgical strike and entered Pakistan`s house and eliminated the terrorists. He has done the work of securing the country. PM Modi is in favour of making Uttar Pradesh a developed state,"he added.

Further counting the work done by the BJP government in the state, Shah said PM Modi worked for constructing five expressways, widened 14000 roads and worked to run the metro in many cities.

"Yogi Adityanath has done the work of transforming Uttar Pradesh. You give one more chance to the BJP, in the next five years, Uttar Pradesh will be the number one state of the country," he said.

He further slammed Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav for supporting the United Progressive Alliance government for ten years.

"I want to ask Behen and Akhilesh Babu who had put mafia on their heads. Who kept Azam Khan on his lap? Where are all these today? In between, the SP-BSP supported the Sonia-Manmohan government for 10 years. The Congress government ran from 2004 to 2014, it was supported by the SP-BSP. Today I want to ask Congress what SP-BSP has given to the state," he said.

He said that the UPA government gave Rs 66 thousand crore to UP in 2014-15 while the Modi government has given more than Rs 1.46 lakh crore in this budget for the development of the state."The mafia was sitting in the entire state by grabbing land worth more than 2 thousand crores. I want to ask Behen and Akhilesh Babu whether there was any involvement in this or not," Shah asked.

The Home Minister said that in Modi government is doing the work of transferring Rs 6,000 per year in the bank accounts of crores of farmers of the country.

"In the SP-BSP governments, farmers` crops were not bought. Modi government is buying farmers` crops at MSP. The money for the purchase of crops is being deposited directly into the bank account of the farmers. The Modi government is doing the work of transferring Rs 6,000 per year in the bank accounts of crores of farmers of the country," said the BJP leader.

The Home Minister said that on one hand Kalyan Singh happily gave the chief minister`s chair for the Ram temple on the other hand there was the SP government who opened fire on kar sevaks.

"Our leader Narendra Modi gave Padma Vibhushan to Kalyan Singh. He happily sacrificed his CM`s chair for Ram Janmabhoomi. But the SP government had opened fire on kar sevaks," he added.

Taking a jibe at the alliance formed by Samajwadi Party and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), Union Home Minister said "In the past, Akhilesh had made Jayant Chaudhary sit with him. Jayant feels that if his government is formed, he will be heard. Jayant, don`t misunderstand, the person who did not listen to his father and uncle, what will he listen to you? If the SP government is formed, Jayant Babu will be outside Azam Khan will be inside."

Uttar Pradesh will go to the polls for its 403-member assembly in seven phases on February 10, 14, 20, 23, 27 and March 3 and 7. The counting of votes will take place on March 10.

Live TV
When Erie County Legislature negotiations to reach a compromise on the 2022 budget failed this fall, Republican Legislator John Mills, a 16-year Legislature veteran and former chairman, spoke up.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is a toxic environment, and it scares me to death that we can't work together," Mills said. "I don't want to look like those crazies in Washington."

GOP effort to slash Erie County tax levy fails as Democrats opt for a smaller cut Both Democratic and Republican-supported legislators blamed the other side for the failure to reach a compromise deal. Tuesday's budget session was a precursor to a final vote on the $1.8 billion county budget coming Thursday.

Democratic Chairwoman April Baskin cast him a withering glance. She expressed her disappointment in the Republican-supported minority caucus, recounted the Democrats' compromise efforts, and rejected notions of "deception" and "trickery."

Then all seven Democrats voted in favor of it and all four Republican-supported legislators voted against it.

Over the past 15 years, the partisan divide in the Legislature has never been wider, with power consolidated between Democratic County Executive Mark Poloncarz and the Legislature's Democratic majority.

The power struggles of today cannot compare with the spectacles that marked the body's sessions 20 years ago. But the rift in the 11-member Legislature has implications for county residents, from governing priorities to independent decision making.

Issues of social justice, health equity, criminal justice reform and minority access to business opportunities have gained traction under the Democratic majority, while the Republican property tax relief and small business proposals have stalled.

Over vocal objections, Democratic committee chairs have dumped more than half a dozen Republican-sponsored resolutions without discussion or vote over the last six months, and requests by the minority caucus to discharge committee items for a floor vote are occasionally ignored.

Meanwhile, Democratic legislators have effectively redistributed millions in county money to benefit their own urban and first-ring suburban constituents. The 2022 budget includes more than $1 million for legislator handouts in Democratic districts. Republican-supported legislators, meanwhile, have left lots of money on the table as part of their strategic political war.

Where money flows

If you want to know who controls the Legislature, follow the money.

When the Republican-supported caucus last held a budget majority in 2018, the Republicans gave themselves $60,000 each in district handouts and $45,000  25 percent less  to each of the Democratic minority members, based on a Buffalo News review of budget amendment documents and archived emails from the minority caucus.

Big takeaways from the adopted $1.8 billion Erie County budget The $1.8 billion budget preserves and grows Erie County services, modestly increases property tax collections and maintains the county's financial shape overall.

Under the new majority, Democrats have awarded themselves $150,000 each in legislative handouts for their own districts in the past two budgets and have offered the Republican-supported legislators half that amount, $75,000 each. The Democrats also set aside more than $2 million in each of the last two county budgets for unspecified urban initiatives benefiting cities, population hubs not represented by Republicans.

In the fall, three of the four Republican-supported legislators did not claim their $75,000, stating that they were told they would get that money only if they supported the Democratic budget amendment package, which offered no reduction in the property tax levy.

GOP effort to slash Erie County tax levy fails as Democrats opt for a smaller cut Both Democratic and Republican-supported legislators blamed the other side for the failure to reach a compromise deal. Tuesday's budget session was a precursor to a final vote on the $1.8 billion county budget coming Thursday.

Democratic Majority Leader Timothy Meyers said no discussions were held with the minority caucus that tied district grants to support for the Democratic amendments.

But Baskin did text Republican legislators reminding them to provide a list of their grant requests for inclusion in the budget "if you are supportive" of the Democratic package.

Baskin said it was irresponsible of the minority caucus to refuse to claim money that could benefit residents. If they had concerns, she said, they should have reached out instead of abandoning their constituents to score political points. She also noted Republican Legislator John Mills submitted grant requests that the Democrats honored, despite being angry that he wouldn't support the final budget.

"Being in the minority, they have to understand that they just don't have the numbers to do things their way all the time," Baskin said. "So the best thing that they can do is try to extend an olive branch to work with us."

Questioning independence

Lorigo, a Republican-supported Conservative, argues that the Democratic majority is a rubber stamp. Democrats get resources from the Poloncarz administration, he said, but lack the authority to be a true check on the executive branch.

Gale Burstein's overtime pay continues to raise questions. Here are some answers. Questions regarding Burstein's overtime are simple: How much overtime did she get paid? And is there anything wrong with her receiving that money? But getting true answers is tricky because of the political haze hanging over the conversation.

He points to prior bipartisan commitments to discuss millions of dollars in overtime payments for the health commissioner and Sheriff's Office, verbal willingness by Democrats to lower the property tax levy, lip service given to the idea of eventually ending Poloncarz's pandemic emergency powers, and initial discussions to override a Poloncarz veto of a Legislature-driven grant program for small businesses and nonprofits.

All of these efforts were ultimately shelved, Lorigo said, because the Democrats rely on the county executive's goodwill for political support and are unwilling to challenge or embarrass him.

"These outcomes fuel the partisan divide," Lorigo said. "That is not the way government should work."

Poloncarz said that while he and Democratic legislators have worked together to accomplish things, he does not tell them what to do, and there are a number of instances when the Legislature has said and done things he has not agreed with.

"The Legislature is certainly independent from me because there's a lot of times they make me pull my hair out of my head when there's issues I have to deal with with them," he said. "I do find it a little funny that the Legislature minority would say that, because when they were in the majority, they ruled with an iron fist."

The Democratic majority's support for the county executive can be subtle. In December, when news spread that Monroe County and New York City were distributing free rapid tests to the public prior to the holiday crush, the minority caucus wanted to vote on a resolution for Erie County to similarly secure and distribute rapid tests.

Erie County balks at expensive effort to distribute at-home Covid tests Erie County lawmakers debated whether to purchase and distribute rapid at-home Covid tests, citing the cost and potential inaccuracy of the kits.

Democratic legislators sent the matter to committee instead, saying this effort merited more committee discussion and coordination with the county administration. When Legislature committees were next scheduled to meet weeks later on Jan. 13, however, the Health and Human Services Committee didn't meet at all.

The Poloncarz administration has ordered a batch of rapid tests, but did not in time for holiday distribution.

"Im so tired of hearing we have 'robust discussions,' " Lorigo said. "I dont think you can talk about the political divide without talking about how little the Democratic majority really does."

Legislator Lisa Chimera, the committee chairwoman, said she was offended by accusations that there was any political pressure. She has regularly asked Health Commissioner Gale Burstein to appear in committee for Covid-19 response updates and has worked with the administration to get information out to the public, she said.

"I have felt very proud of what this legislative body, and what Erie County, as a whole, has done to get us through this crisis," she said.

Breaking with the past

Part of the reason Democratic control has been noteworthy is that under county executives Joel Giambra, Chris Collins and even much of the Poloncarz administration, the Legislature's political makeup either did not line up neatly with the county executive's party, or independent-minded legislators in a 6-5 majority kept Legislature sessions unpredictable.

The last time the Democrats voted together so consistently as a group was the early 2000s.

Democratic legislators say minority caucus members hurt only themselves and their agenda by engaging in verbal tear-down campaigns and last-minute gamesmanship on the chamber floor designed to make Democrats look bad.

"Every elected official that is part of the Democratic majority is committed to being unified and working together for our agenda," Baskin said. "That agenda is not a Poloncarz agenda. That agenda is not a GOP agenda. That agenda is an agenda that is reflective of the needs of our constituents. So you can't come across the aisle and get us to divide."

Democratic and Republican-supported legislators did discuss unseating Baskin as chairwoman in late 2020. All Democratic legislators ultimately supported her. Minority Leader Joseph Lorigo said it was the Democrats who reached out to him first, but Baskin hasn't forgotten the Republicans' role in trying to topple her from leadership.

She hasn't requested support from the minority caucus for her chairmanship since then.

Crossing the aisle

Some glimmers of togetherness in the Legislature have emerged. The Democrats worked with the Republicans on compromise resolutions seeking updates on Buffalo Bills stadium lease negotiations, holding hearings on the stadium lease and implementing a 30-day waiting period before approving any tentative agreement.

Poloncarz: Legislators 'can't force me' to provide Bills stadium updates The county executive said lease negotiations would be hurt if county legislators or state lawmakers were given information about the status of bargaining over the stadium.

Poloncarz, however, has refused to share any details about negotiations and said the Legislature can't force him.

Two Democrats also joined with the minority caucus to support a youth firearm hunting law that Poloncarz subsequently vetoed.

And Baskin pointed out that minority caucus members have crossed the aisle to support criminal justice reform issues.

Poloncarz vetoes law allowing children ages 12 and 13 to hunt deer with guns The Erie County executive said there was an "inherent danger" in allowing children 12 and 13 years old to shoot deer with a firearm or crossbow.

On many non-controversial issues, both sides still vote together unanimously. But fundamentally, both sides believe the other side has it wrong.

"They only do what Mark tells them," Lorigo said, referring to the county executive.

Chimera said, "The question shouldn't be, 'Are you beholden to the county executive?' The question should be, 'What role have you played as a legislator to partner with the county executive to address the concerns in this time of crisis?' "
New Delhi, Feb 3: Top Russian envoy for Afghanistan has cautioned the Taliban rulers that there is a possibility of widespread popular resistance against them and an escalation of the war in Afghanistan beginning in spring of 2022 because of their failure to form an inclusive government as promised during intra-Afghan peace talks in Doha.

"There is a possibility of widespread popular resistance against the Taliban. Ethnic political inclusiveness is needed. They might lose power in the near future if they keep acting like that," the Russian envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, told the Russian news agency Tass on Tuesday. He added that Russia is ready to meditate between the Taliban and the anti-Taliban groups.

Confirming the meeting held between the Deputy Prime Minister of Taliban regime, Mullah Baradar and Ahmad Massoud, anti-Taliban leader of National Resistance Front (NRF) in Moscow in January, Kabulov said: "As for visits to Moscow by representatives of both the new Afghan authorities and opposition forces, we have repeatedly confirmed our readiness to demonstrate hospitality if they are interested in that." Though the Taliban had denied such meetings in Moscow, TOLO news confirmed the meeting between Massoud and Baradar, quoting the sources of Massoud's NRF. The source also said that these meetings were mediated by Russia on the behest of the Taliban regime.

Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry had raised the concerns about ethnic tensions and protests in the northern part of Afghanistan. Afghanistan's Taliban regime is battling a rebellion by ethnic minority fighters in their own ranks in the country's north, a sign that ties are fraying within the alliance built by the Pashtun-dominated Islamist group. The Taliban leadership knows that there can be no peace in north Afghanistan if the Uzbek and Tajik groups remain hostile. Ahmad Massoud is the son of the Lion of Panjshir, Ahmad Shah Massoud, who was a celebrity Tajik leader.

A fortnight before the Moscow meeting, Iran hosted the first meeting between the Taliban leaders and anti-Taliban leaders. The Foreign Minister of the Taliban regime, Amir Muttaqi met Ahmad Massoud and the former Governor of Herat, Ismail Khan. But Muttaqi rejected the demands of decentralising power and forming an inclusive government. Later, the Taliban Minister admitted that there were internal differences in the Taliban regime on several issues but was hopeful "it will be solved in the future." According to some Afghan watchers, both Moscow and Tehran have been putting pressure on the Taliban to talk to the NRF. Even Tajikistan, which is hosting Massoud and other anti-Taliban leaders, has encouraged the talks in Tehran and Russia also endorsed them.

Interestingly, Pakistan's ISI tried three times to host the talks but Massoud and Saleh were "playing hardball" and chose to meet in Iran and Russia.

According to the experts, Massoud is very close to Iran and Russia. There have been reports that Massod's NRF is getting weapons from Tajikistan and Russia. Photographs have subsequently appeared of NRF fighters posing with Russian arms. Both the governments denied such reports.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
CAMDEN  The top executive of American Water, who was hospitalized after an injury late last year, wont be returning to the company.

The utility firm on Wednesday said Walter Lynch has retired as its president and CEO.

He will be succeeded in both positions by Susan Hardwick, an executive vice president whos been serving as CEO on an interim basis.

Hardwick also was elected to the companys board of directors.

Walter Lynch, replaced on an interim basis after an injury in December, has retired as president and CEO of American Water in Camden.

American Water on Dec. 8 announced Lynch had been hospitalized and was recovering from an undisclosed injury. It's offered no additional details.

The company at that time said the appointment of an interim CEO would allow Lynch to focus on his recovery while the company could operate without interruption.

In a statement released by American Water, Lynch called his retirement, which took effect Wednesday, the best decision for my family and me.

I am fortunate to have my health and such a wonderful family with whom I look forward to spending more time, he said.

Lynch had led American Water since his predecessor, Susan Story, retired in April 2020.

Karl Kurz, chairman of the firms board, described Hardwick as a proven leader with extensive utility experience.

Hardwick will continue to serve as the firms chief financial officer until a replacement is named.

She joined American Water in June 2019 and became CFO one month later. Hardwick previously was executive vice president and CFO of Vectren Corp., an Indiana-based energy holding company.

American Water, with headquarters on Camden's Waterfront, employs more than 6,400 people and serves customers in 25 states.

Jim Walsh covers public safety, economic development and other beats for the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal.

Support local journalism with a subscription.

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Susan Hardwick named president and CEO at American Water in Camden
More than 70 students from Dothan Technology Center went out into the community on Wednesday to learn firsthand about working in the real world.

Dothan Tech held its inaugural job shadow day, matching students enrolled in the schools programs with 35 local businesses.

All Dothan Tech students were invited to apply to participate and were allowed to specify the industries and businesses they would enjoy shadowing. Once they spent their day observing, the students returned to campus for a debrief session to share the positives, unique perspectives, and growth opportunities they learned.

Programs like this allow students to learn from leaders in our community about the necessary skills to enter the workforce successfully, Ryan Richards, Dothan City Schools Workforce Coordinator, said.

Locations where students shadowed included: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine; Bell Helicopter; Beverly Beauty Institute; CARE Animal Center; Carver Ninth Grade Academy; Cooks Saw; Crowder Orthodontics; Digestive Health Specialists; Dothan City Schools; Dothan Diagnostic Imaging; Dothan Fire Department; Dothan Neuro-Spine-Pain; Dothan Surgery Center; Dothan Preparatory Academy; ENT Care; Eye Center South; Girard Primary School; Highlands Elementary School; Humphreys and Galloway Periodontics; Ingram Realty; Physical Therapy Specialists; Pilchers Ambulance; Pinch a Penny; Real Time IT; Screen Tech; Seay, Seay, and Litchfield; SEC Clinical Research; Southern Home Builders; Surgery Center South; Vaughn Dentistry; Wallace Community College; Wiregrass Hope Group; Wiregrass Research and Extension Center; and WTVY.

Wallace Community College hosted four Dothan Tech students interested in a career in health care. The students shadowed those in the colleges Health Sciences school  physical therapist assistant, associate degree nursing and respiratory therapist programs. The students also toured the colleges Health Sciences Simulation Center and visited other program areas including emergency medical services, radiologic technology, practical nursing, medical assisting and surgical technology.

This is an excellent opportunity to showcase our Health Sciences programs to students who are interested in health care careers, Kathy Buntin, Wallaces Associate Dean of Health Sciences, said. We hope that these job shadowing students consider Wallace as they pursue those careers.
The Russian military land contingent near the borders of Ukraine, including Belarus, as well as in the temporarily occupied territories of Crimea and Donetsk and Luhansk regions, totals about 115,000 people.

"Currently, we observe Russian units, about 115,000-strong land contingent, including in the territory of Belarus and the adjacent areas of the Russian Federation, temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and Crimea," Defense Minister of Ukraine Oleksii Reznikov said at a briefing, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

According to the minister, the units are being redeployed to the training areas in Crimea, Voronezh region, etc.

In addition, Reznikov noted that six Russian landing ships of the Northern Baltic Fleet continue to cross the Mediterranean Sea and, according to him, are going to enter the Syrian port of Tartus. The Ukrainian defense minister did not rule out that those ships could further move towards the Black Sea.

As reported, Russia continues to militarize the temporarily occupied Crimean peninsula, but the formation of strike groups ready for the offensive is not observed there.

Photo credit: Maxar

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New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Cyber Cell of North Delhi police has arrested two persons for allegedly cheating people in the name of KBC lottery, an official said on Thursday.

The senior police official said the accused have been identified as Aniket Singh and Sameer Ansari. They were operating the racket from West Bengal and Jharkhand. One Sunham Mandal who is the kingpin, is on the run. They have cheated a number of people to the tune of several crore rupees.

The police said that one Saroj Devi had approached the police saying she got a call from KBC office which told her that she had won a lottery of Rs 25 lakh. She was asked to pay charges to get the amount. She deposited Rs 8.8 lakh in their said account after which they stopped taking her call.

The police learnt that the accused used to call and send audio clippings through WhatsApp numbers to the victims and would convince them, that they had won the popular show's KBC lottery of Rs 25 lakh.

They also sent videos of bundles of cash and which also showed some persons saying that they had won the KBC lottery and were in the bank to receive the cash.

The accused would then tell people that to get the prize they needed to pay documentation charges, TDS and other taxes.

"They had bank accounts in Bihar where they would receive money in the name of various charges. Later they would transfer it to different e-wallets and subsequently transferred in different bank accounts of West Bengal," said the police official.

Following the technical input Aniket was held from West Bengal. He told the cops that Sameer Ansari was giving him two per cent in lieu of receiving money from his victims.

Sameer was also held. He told the cops that one Shubam Mandal is his boss.

Dozens of bank accounts were got arranged by Sameer and more than crore rupees have been transacted through these accounts.

Further probe in the matter is on.
New Delhi, Feb 3: In its one year of power, the Myanmar Junta remains completely alienated from the people, yet not vulnerable to any popular pressure for leaving the political scene. Symbolic of the alienation of the people from the Junta was on December 10, when the whole country was shut down in a "silent strike" against the military, streets in cities and towns nationwide were deserted throughout the day, shops were closed and people stayed at home in a mighty show of defiance.

While resistance to the Junta has been quite widespread and broad-based due to support from major sections of people, including many ethnic groups like Karens and Kachins who have been fighting the state for decades now closing ranks with the resistance, the Junta's power base is slowly eroding due to widespread discontentment with an oppressive institution determined to remain in power with unprecedented violence, desertion of government and public officials and reported casualties on its side.

Junta's survival instinct has led the regime not only to indulge in extreme form of violence, but also trying to keep the morale of the armed forces high by adding to its strength in numbers and inflating its image as a modern institution with the purchase of state of the art weapons systems, even while those have no relevance or use in fighting the resistance. The procurement of two diesel-electric submarines, one from India and the other from China together with other advanced weapons from China, Pakistan and Israel, have, in the words of Bertil Lintner, a leading expert on Myanmar, "as much to do with diplomatic balancing as keeping the military's rank-and-file loyal, proud and satisfied." To quote him further: "For their part, Myanmar's generals aim to ensure the officer corps and rank-and-file remain loyal to the top brass, led by coup-maker Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. It is of imperative importance to the troops, regardless of which military service they belong, that they are on the surface part of a modern, well-equipped and world-class military -- even if they're not." With all the above strategies, the regime has not been able to consolidate its position in all parts of the country. The Junta is in power but lacks legitimacy.

Lacking legitimacy, the military has resorted to increasing levels of violence to maintain its grip on power. Large number of Myanmar refugees, that includes government officials, policemen and ordinary citizens who are protesting against the coup, are coming over to Mizoram in India and in the bordering areas of Thailand, to take shelter. Peoples' non-cooperation with the brutal regime has impacted essential services, whose delivery has come to a standstill, affecting daily life in the country. Since the coup, thousands of civil servants, railway workers, doctors, nurses, teachers and others have joined or supported the protests, with many arrested.

Banks, private healthcare and other services have shuttered offices or slowed operations to comply with restrictions on crowds. The pro-democracy and civil disobedience movements are gradually widening their base of support by bringing on board the various armed ethnic groups, who had been fighting against the Tatmadaw for many years for greater autonomy for themselves. Inflexible repression by the Tatmadaw, has pushed segments of the urban-based protest movement into using low-level guerrilla warfare tactics, while escalating hostilities with ethnic armed forces in the north and east threaten a wider war on multiple fronts in the country's borderlands.

The economic crisis triggered by Covid-19 and the coup could plunge "up to 12 million people into poverty" in Myanmar, driving the poverty rate to 48.2 per cent by early 2022 and pushing the country back to where it was in 2005, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) said in a report released on April 30, 2021. The projection is based on a scenario in which the disruption of banking, logistics and trade cuts wages and business income in half. The report added that women and children are set to bear the heaviest burden of the crises. "Half of all children in Myanmar could be living in poverty within a year," said Wignaraja, UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, adding already vulnerable internally displaced people also faced more pressure.

In 2017, a survey conducted by UNDP, the World Bank and the Myanmar government showed that 24.8 per cent of the population was living under the poverty line. Millions of people have lost their jobs or sources of livelihood over the last year. The prices of many essential food items have shot up with the national currency, the kyat plummeting in value, pushing up the cost of imports, including cooking oil, agricultural inputs such as fertiliser, and refined fuels, and with it rising domestic transport costs. A large proportion of the population, including in the cities, is slipping into poverty and food insecurity, as predicted wiping out a decade of progress and inflicting a terrible cost on the most vulnerable.

With doctors, medical staff and teachers at the forefront of the civil disobedience movement and the majority continuing to refuse to work under the junta, public services have collapsed. "Those on strike have been targeted for beatings and arrest, while those who have continued working face violent retaliation from their communities and local defence forces. The upshot is a health system in disarray and schools likewise disrupted, with few teachers in classrooms and few students in attendance," says the International Crisis Group in their latest report.

There are widespread blackouts across the country as the regime has been forced to cancel power generation projects pegged to the US dollar that it can no longer afford. All in all, human sufferings have been immense. According to a January 4 joint report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, more than 135,000 civilians have been displaced because of the fighting and, given more recent military operations in Karen and Kayah states, the current figure may be twice as high.

In which direction Myanmar is moving? The Junta has its own roadmap, a five-point formula in which it wants to hold an election sometime in the middle of 2023 after which it wants to hand over power to an elected President, obviously someone from the Junta itself or what is known as the State Administrative Council (SAC). With that plan in mind, it has been doing everything that is needed to ensure its success in a constitutional framework that would guarantee the dissolution of Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy, the most popular party in Myanmar. Suu Kyi is already under detention with all kinds of contrived charges and will continue to remain so in the foreseeable future unless some miracle takes place to bring down the army regime. Election machinery is also under overhaul to make it more amenable to the junta and ensure the success of the Union Solidarity and Development Party, consisting of retired army officials and their henchmen.

The Junta may be having its own preferred plan, but whether it will be practicable to implement such a plan when the whole country is in revolt against the regime. More importantly, in the backdrop of a popularly mandated elections being rejected by the Junta, a new contrived election that will bring retired army generals in civilian garb cannot resolve the political crisis that Myanmar is mired in. Western support and the ethnic rebel armies like the KIA and KNA making common cause with the democracy supporters to build a Federal Myanmar might have emboldened the protesters to challenge the junta and may have raised the hope of gaining recognition from the international community for the NUG. But it is highly unlikely that the Tatmadaw will cave in, as the means of violence is still overwhelmingly in their favour to be pressured to surrender.

Even if the battle-hardened rebel Kachin and Karen armies provide guerrilla training to the opposition groups, for one, it will require a long time to garner enough strength to match Tatmadaw and win victory over it; for another, will the Myanmar society at large be able to maintain unity in the event of a civil war consuming the country. The international community also may not have the stomach for another Syria-like situation distracting their attention and energy from more serious global issues. More importantly, ASEAN, likely to be most affected by a civil war in Myanmar, will not allow such a situation to develop. Even if the ASEAN five-point consensus lacks much teeth and appears to be too weak, that is the only path through which peace and normalcy can be restored in Myanmar. But the Junta has not shown any inclination so far that it would be amenable to the ASEAN plan. Under such circumstances, a protracted civil war is what the country is destined for in the foreseeable future.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
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U.S. to deploy additional 3,000 troops to Europe amid Ukraine tensions

Xinhua) 13:46, February 03, 2022

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (1st L) arrives to attend a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 2, 2022. The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders.

The deployment includes 1,000 troops currently based in Germany to be repositioned to Romania and another 2,000 troops to be sent from the United States to Germany and Poland, John Kirby, the Defense Department's spokesman, said during a press conference at the Pentagon.

"These are not permanent moves. They are moves designed to respond to the current security environment. Moreover, these forces are not going to fight in Ukraine," Kirby said.

"These movements are unmistakable signals to the world that we stand ready to reassure our (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) allies and deter and defend against any aggression," he added.

The United States has already put some 8,500 troops on "heightened alert," in preparation for what it claimed to be an "imminent" Russian invasion of Ukraine. The measure will enable the troops to be deployed on short notice if NATO decides to activate its rapid response force known as the NRF.

Kirby said the troops being deployed are separate from those put on high alert. They will operate on a bilateral basis with their host countries, and will be under U.S. command -- not NATO command - since the alliance has yet to activate the NRF.

Repeatedly declining to say whether the deployment was in response to fears that Russia could attack a NATO country, the spokesman said the U.S. troops could be augmented by additional deployments in the coming days or months, noting that other NATO countries - including Britain, France and Denmark - have also moved to shore up the alliance's eastern flank.

President Joe Biden said Friday he "will be moving U.S. troops to Eastern Europe and the NATO countries in the near term." The president has maintained that no U.S. forces will be sent directly to Ukraine, which is not a NATO member.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin arrives to attend a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 2, 2022. The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin arrives to attend a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 2, 2022. The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (1st L) arrives to attend a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 2, 2022. The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji)
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Sex And The City spin-off And Just Like That... aired its final episode on Thursday - leaving very open-ends and the prospect of new stories to tease the possibility of a second series.

While there has been no official confirmation over a return, the stories of Carrie Bradshaw, Charlotte York Goldenblatt and Miranda Hobbes' lives are left with many more tales to tell - with Carrie finally moving on from her late husband, Charlotte continuing to tackle motherhood and Miranda moving to LA.

With the final episode focusing heavily on Sarah Jessica Parker's character Carrie's attempts to move on from Big, who died in the first episode, she finally builds up the courage to spread his ashes in Paris before we see her messaging Kim Cattrall's character Samantha Jones confirming a meet-up, leading to questions that Samantha may be recast. Samantha's big move to London was exclusively revealed by MailOnline in November.

The protagonist is then seen in the very final scene locking lips with her podcast producer, having decided to launch her own show on his advice, while Cynthia Nixon's Miranda prepares to move to LA to be with her girlfriend Che, played by Sara Ramirez - and even dying her hair back to red.

New love? Sex And The City spin-off And Just Like That... aired its final episode on Thursday - leaving very open-ends and the prospect of new stories to tease the possibility of a second series, including Carrie finding love after spreading Big's ashes

Earlier this week, Sarah was asked about the prospect of a second season, to which she replied: 'Definitely, yeah. showrunner Michael [Patrick King] and I spoke two weeks ago, and said: "OK, when are we going to talk about this?" Theres a calendar and you dont want to let too much time pass. There feels like theres momentum.'

The evidence is clear in the episode, with Carrie's recovery from her Big heartache being a large element of the show - and ending with her scattering his ashes from the bridge in Paris which featured in the final episode - An American Girl in Paris, Part Deux - when she was rescued by Big after moving there with Aleksander Petrovsky.

She even holds his ashes in the $1,675 Timmy Woods Eiffel Tower bag that fans first saw in the 2008 Sex And The City Movie which she sported while apartment hunting with Big.

Despite having shot scenes for the reboot with Chris Noth, who has recently been accused of sexual assault, on the bridge, it looked as though these had been cut in the midst of his personal dramas and Carrie instead scattered his ashes alone - before we see her kissing her producer.

Moving on: We explosively see her messaging Kim Cattrall's character Samantha Jones confirming a meet-up - despite Kim's refusal to return to the show and leading to question marks over a possible recasting

On the up: Miranda meanwhile - having ended her relationship with Steve - agrees to move to Hollywood with Che and before doing so, dyes her hair back to her trademark red, after being criticised in the first episode for going grey

With no explanation of the start of their romance and their kiss being the final scene, it appears there is plenty more to tell in regard to the newfound passion in her life - not to mention the fact that the show concludes with its catchphrase 'And just like that...' with no follow up sentiment as with other episodes.

Additionally, Samantha - whose storyline has seen her reside in London following a fallout with Carrie - makes her off-screen return when she agrees to meet Carrie for a cocktail. Although there has been staunch denials that she would ever return on-screen, there is an element of mystery to her off-screen comeback.

Kim refused to join the reboot following a fall out with Sarah - with bad blood between the two said to have been an issue during filming the original series and subsequent two films. Showrunner Michael Patrick King said he no longer has any realistic expectation' of Kim reprising her role if they get the green light.

While discussing how he incorporated the star's beloved character in the reboot through text, the director, 67, opened up to Variety about overcoming the 'obstacle' of not having Kim on the series.

Could it be? The And Just Like That... finale hinted that Kim Cattrall's character of Samantha Jones could be recast after the actress vowed never to return to the show (pictured in 2020)

Unwritten: In her final monologue, Carrie seems to give the nod to the open end

When asked if the door was open for the Golden Globe winner to come back, he responded: 'The only place I participate in magical thinking is in fiction. You take people at their word.'

'I have no realistic expectation of Kim Cattrall ever appearing again,' he told the outlet. 'You take people at their word, and you're a smart producer  you don't back yourself into a corner.'

In the finale, Miranda meanwhile - having ended her relationship with Steve - agrees to move to Hollywood with Che and before doing so, dyes her hair back to her trademark red, after being criticised in the first episode for going grey.

In her final monologue, Carrie seems to give the nod to the open end.

Call back: Carrie brought Big's ashes to Paris in the same bag she wore in 2008's first movie

Her love: Carrie and Big, played by Chris Noth, are pictured in the first movie

Carrie says: 'The more I live the more I find myself mystified. So much is life just doesn't seem to make sense but if there's anything I've learnt from my recent loss is that you will laugh again especially if you have one or two good friends in your corner. And as for love, anything is possible...

'The future is unwritten. I'm glad that helps. Well that's it for my very first podcast. I'll get better. So till next time. I'm Carrie Bradshaw, and this... is Sex And The City.'

The show opens with Carrie recording her podcast, alongside her boss Che, played by Sara Ramirez, and co-star Jackie Nee, played by Bobby Lee, as they detail the best way to be dumped.

Jackie regaled: 'Last year, a lady got Covid just so she didn't have to break up with me in person - that's why I win, best break-up', yet Che recalls: 'A woman broke up with me over FaceTime and she was so sweet I didn't see it coming, she should have called it two-faced time.'

Open and honest: The show opens with Carrie recording her podcast, alongside her boss Che, played by Sara Ramirez, and co-star Jackie Nee, played by Bobby Lee, as they detail the best way to be dumped

Having a laugh: Jackie regaled: 'Last year, a lady got Covid just so she didn't have to break up with me in person - that's why I win, best break-up'

Carrie however drops the clanger, saying: 'Ok, not so fast you lightweights. My husband died - death - the ultimate break-up, so clearly I win best break-up ever', which leads to mass agreement from her followers.

Carrie is then seen talking to Big's ashes: 'I'm going on a date. You happy?'

Three episodes after we saw Carrie go on a date with teacher Peter, played by Jon Tenney, during which their date was ruined by the duo getting so drunk that they vomited, she is seen on date number two.

Peter admits to Carrie that he had Googled her - and rather than anger, she reveals she too had Googled him and discovered he won a Best Teacher prize in 2018, while he found her Best Selling Author status.

Kisses: Three episodes after we saw Carrie go on a date with teacher Peter, played by Jon Tenney, during which their date was ruined by the duo getting so drunk that they vomited, she is seen on date number two

Locking lips: Peter admits to Carrie that he had Googled her - and rather than anger, she reveals she too had Googled him and discovered he won a Best Teacher prize in 2018, while he found her Best Selling Author status

Things turn romantic, as he asks: 'I'd like to kiss you.. would that be ok? I think we did ok for two heartbroken people' - leading to agreement from Carrie.

Once inside, Carrie calls Seema Patel, played by Sarita Choudhury, who is in bed with Zed, played by William Abadie, and reveals they have been in a hotel room for days. She asks Carrie how the date went.

Carrie explains: 'Charming, lovely, awful, nervous', as Seema replies: 'You or him' - and Carrie explains they were both in the same boat: 'The awful nervous part was the goodnight kiss'.

She explains that the kiss was 'just his lips on my lips': 'He asked permission for the kiss, it's just a contract for the kiss - that's not how I remember it', then hears Seema enjoying a steamy moment of her own.

Oh my! Once inside, Carrie calls Seema Patel, played by Sarita Choudhury, who is in bed with Zed, played by William Abadie, and reveals they have been in a hotel room for days. She asks Carrie how the date went

Back on: As Carrie turns off her bedside light, the lamp turns on twice by itself

As Carrie turns off her bedside light, the lamp turns on twice by itself.

The writer then heads to lunch with Charlotte and Miranda where she announces: 'I think Big is mad at me. I went on a date with Jon and then he kissed me. Then right after, my reading light started blinking on and off. I think it could be Big - coming through my lamp'.

Charlotte insists that despite believing in ghosts and the afterlife, she does not believe that Big would send messages in such a form - yet Miranda mocks the concept: 'You think Big is sitting in Heaven on a cloud puffing on a cigar' - something Carrie admits she likes to think.

Miranda pushes: 'Since when do you believe in the afterlife? I though we were on the same page about this', although Carrie admits his death has made her change her views: 'I can believe he is sitting on a cloud smoking a cigar sending messages through a lamp'.

Messages? The writer then heads to lunch with Charlotte and Miranda where she announces: 'I think Big is mad at me. I went on a date with Jon and then he kissed me. Then right after, my reading light started blinking on and off. I think it could be Big - coming through my lamp'

Huh? Miranda pushes: 'Since when do you believe in the afterlife? I though we were on the same page about this', although Carrie admits his death has made her change her views: 'I can believe he is sitting on a cloud smoking a cigar sending messages through a lamp'.

After pulling focus on the show with her marital demise from Steve and her new love with Che, Miranda then announces that Che has asked her on a date and plans to meet their parents - something Charlotte delights in, which Carrie finds incredibly sweet.

In an insight into Charlotte's life, her phone pings and she reveals she has managed to book a trans Rabi for her child Rock's Bat Mitzvah, in the wake of Rock's gender identity changes in earlier episodes. Due to Rock's change to nonbinary, the family have agreed to change the ceremony to a 'They Mitzvah'.

Following Kim Cattrall's absence in the show, due to bad blood behind the scenes, Carrie is seen texting Samantha, in what has been the 'fourth musketeer's' only way of appearing on the show.

How was it? Following Kim Cattrall's absence in the show, due to bad blood behind the scenes, Carrie is seen texting Samantha, in what has been the 'fourth musketeer's' only way of appearing on the show

She writes: 'I kissed a man', before Samantha pens: 'The first of many. How was it?' and Carrie replies: 'It wasn't Big'. Samantha replies: 'So, it was small', to Carrie's 'Want to talk?'

Samantha simply replies - 'soon', in a mysterious nod to Kim's presence. It is then that Carrie's lamp turns on.

She enters a repair shop and asks for the lamp to be fixed - where she is told that the on and off nature of the lamp 'is strange' - seemingly confirming her concerns about Big's subliminal messaging.

As we head to the Upper East Side, Anthony Marantino, played by Mario Cantone, presents Harry and Charlotte with a loaf of Challah bread for Rock's They Mitzvah - yet angers Harry by using sourdough bread.

Huh? As we head to the Upper East Side, Anthony Marantino, played by Mario Cantone, presents Harry and Charlotte with a loaf of Challah bread for Rock's They Mitzvah - yet angers Harry by using sourdough bread

He inists there must be some form of tradition given the fact they are shaking up the traditional event by making it a They Mitzvah. As the Rabbi enters the room, she is forced to tell Harry and Charlotte: 'I'm not gonna sugarcoat this, great kid, completely unprepared, total disaster. It doesn't know even the basic prayers of the service'.

As she suggests hosting the service in English, Charlotte is left raging: 'No I did not convert to Judaism to have my daughter They Mitsvah-ed in English', before they reveal they had been kicked out by a number of Rabbis.

Anthony then storms into Rock's room to demand she works on her language.

Returning to Miranda's romance, we see her arrive at a club where Che introduces her to her grandparents and says 'sit sit so we can start', and takes to the stage while Miranda appears confused.

Star: Che then takes the stage and begins performing and singing The Beach Boys' 1965 hit California Girls and then saying: 'All of this is my way of telling all of you - yours truly is going to California. Hollywood called b****es. I'm making a pilot'

Pained: They explain to Miranda that they didn't want to tell her the news until things were official, before regaling her exciting news and even announcing that Tony Danza has been cast as her father - yet through Che's excitement, although Miranda looks heartbroken and taken aback

Che then takes the stage and begins performing and singing The Beach Boys' 1965 hit California Girls and then saying: 'All of this is my way of telling all of you - yours truly is going to California. Hollywood called b****es. I'm making a pilot'.

They explain to Miranda that they didn't want to tell her the news until things were official, before regaling her exciting news and even announcing that Tony Danza has been cast as her father - yet through Che's excitement, although Miranda looks heartbroken and taken aback.

Miranda is then more shocked when Che tells her she wants her to come join her on the West Coast. Miranda says: 'I had no idea, no idea at all!'

Che is then seen announcing to Carrie and Jackie and their producer Franklyn that she wants to leave the podcast. Jackie says: 'Wait this isn't a bit?' while Carrie says: 'Damn, I was just getting the hang of this!'

Opening up: Jackie invites her to a party which she vows to attend

She's gone: Miranda then arrives at the office of Karen Pittman's character Dr. Nya Wallace, who has been teaching her law at Columbia, and with whom she has formed a friendship

Open and honest: She tells Nya: 'I've made a big life decision and I'm still catching my breath - I've decided to finish this semester remotely... I'm going to LA for a few months. Che got a big TV thing and they asked me to go with them'

She then chats to Jackie about his thoughts on the news: 'I feel like someone who's survived a plane crash'.

Jackie invites her to a party which she vows to attend.

Miranda then arrives at the office of Karen Pittman's character Dr. Nya Wallace, who has been teaching her law at Columbia, and with whom she has formed a friendship.

She tells Nya: 'I've made a big life decision and I'm still catching my breath - I've decided to finish this semester remotely... I'm going to LA for a few months. Che got a big TV thing and they asked me to go with them'.

Nya then seems worried that Miranda is pulling out of an internship at a human rights organisation - yet Miranda is defiant and insists she is resisting thinking about it too much to avoid stopping herself.

Chatting away: Carrie speaks to Seema about her steamy romance while she is headed to meet Big's brother at lunch, who asks her: 'So, how have you been', to which Carrie says: 'I've been up and down'

Carrie speaks to Seema about her steamy romance while she is headed to meet Big's brother at lunch, who asks her: 'So, how have you been', to which Carrie says: 'I've been up and down'.

His brother asks: 'Where's John?' - and while Carrie comes over confused and reminds him he's dead - he then clarifies he means where are his ashes: 'I asked because I never recieved word of his final resting place'.

Carrie reveals he is in her closet, while his brother explains there is a place for him in the family crypt in Connecticut, before drawing out a map of the crypt. She replies: 'Thank you, Richard. That's a lovely offer but I need to think more about where John might want to be before I decide'.

Good idea? Carrie is then seen at Jackie's party, where Jackie and his girlfriend announce they are getting married - at the event. Carrie appears delighted for the pair before Franklyn arrives

Richard replies: 'We are coming up on a year Carrie' - she insists she knows.

She heads to the repair shop to collect her lamp and is told the wiring was broken.

Carrie is then seen at Jackie's party, where Jackie and his girlfriend announce they are getting married - at the event. Carrie appears delighted for the pair before Franklyn arrives.

Reach out: As she returns home, she is seen speaking to her lamp: 'If you're trying to reach me - blink'. The light then turns on after she curls up to sleep: 'That is so you', she states before going to sleep - and dreaming about being in Paris, where Big finally professed his love for her at the end of the series

He tells her: 'You're so good with relationship stuff. I think you're a podcast. Seriously, I'd like to produce you alone. Talking to callers. Give me a shout.'

As she returns home, she is seen speaking to her lamp: 'If you're trying to reach me - blink'. The light then turns on after she curls up to sleep: 'That is so you', she states before going to sleep - and dreaming about being in Paris, where Big finally professed his love for her at the end of the series.

As scenes turn to the They Mitzvah, Carrie tells Miranda and Charlotte: 'So Big came to me in a dream last night... I know where he wants to be. Paris, on a bridge. So I want to be there for the one year anniversary. I have airline tickets and rooms at hotel booked so it would be on hold so it would be three days...

'We could do longer, it'll be my treat'. Her friends agree to the visit.

Oh no: As things descend into chaos, Charlotte is left raging. Anthony arrives late with the bread and with a slew of his 'hot' bakery delivery men, before Harry drags her to see Rock, who tells her they do not want to go outside as they 'don't believe' in the Jewish values she is set to promise

As things descend into chaos, Charlotte is left raging. Anthony arrives late with the bread and with a slew of his 'hot' bakery delivery men, before Harry drags her to see Rock, who tells her they do not want to go outside as they 'don't believe' in the Jewish values she is set to promise.

Carrie and Miranda begin chatting at the sweet bar where the former announces her LA news - Carrie then says: 'You can't fly to Paris from LA, it's a 14 hour flight', before storming to the ladies.

Miranda speaks about the ins and outs of attending the ashes scattering in Paris and reveals to Carrie that she has dropped out of her internship. Carrie replies: 'The one you said was impossible to get?'

Miranda hits back: 'That feels like judgement... Why can't I choose love over an internship?' Yet Carrie points out the realities: 'What are you gonna do in LA? Sit in an audience? OK that was judgement.'

They begin to go back and forth where Miranda insists she needs Carrie's approval.

Rabbi Jen then comes out of the toilet to breakdown their situations - apologising for Carrie's loss and congratulating Miranda for finding love: 'Those relationships are clear, but what's really important is the relationship between you. I see this a lot as a Rabbi, as a friend. I'm rooting for you two...

Eek: Miranda speaks about the ins and outs of attending the ashes scattering in Paris and reveals to Carrie that she has dropped out of her internship. Carrie replies: 'The one you said was impossible to get?'

'I can hear how strong your bond is. It presents challenges from time to time.'

Charlotte and Harry continue in their attempts at persuading Rock. As Harry offers her an Oculus or an Apple Watch, they reply: 'That's not the point. I don't want to be labelled as anything - a girl, a boy, nonbinary, a Jew, Christian, Muslim, a New Yorker' - Charlotte asks: 'You're nothing now?'

Rock then states: 'I'm only 13. Can't I just be me?'

A tearful Charlotte runs to her pal Lisa, played by Nicole Ari Parker, and tells her the news before voicing concerns that she's a 'failure as a mom and as a Jew'.

Lisa insists: 'Everyone in this room feels like a failure as a mom - but no one tries as hard as you'.

Happy days: Charlotte comes up with an idea after insisting that somebody needs to get 'They Mitzvah-ed' given what she has put into the day. She then receives the blessing of her own

Charlotte comes up with an idea after insisting that somebody needs to get 'They Mitzvah-ed' given what she has put into the day. She then receives the blessing of her own, with Carrie saying: 'Our little girl is a woman', before Harry and Lily join her at the alter - alongside a reluctant Rock.

Carrie then tells Charlotte that Miranda is not coming to Paris, due to her trip to LA, before Carrie says: 'You two got me this far, I think I can do the rest on my own'.

Miranda and her son Brady head to the airport together. Things truly change back as Miranda dyes her grey locks back to her trademark red, following remarks in the first episode from Charlotte about her grey look.

Jetting off: Miranda and her son Brady head to the airport together. Things truly change back as Miranda dyes her grey locks back to her trademark red, following remarks in the first episode from Charlotte about her grey look

As we are transported to Paris, Carrie walks along the bridge - which featured in the final episode - An American Girl in Paris, Part Deux - when she was rescued from Paris by Big after moving there with Aleksander Petrovsky.

Clad in a wildly over the top dress in orange and wearing pink gloves, she clutches the $1,675 Timmy Woods bag that fans first saw in the first Sex And The City Movie while she is apartment hunting with Big.

She scatters the ashes from within the bag before taking her phone out of her bag and texting Samantha: 'I'm in Paris, want to meet for a cocktail?' - to which Samantha responds: 'How's tomorrow night?' and Carrie replies: 'FABULOUS'.

Back in New York, Carrie is seen hosting her own podcast - having taken Franklyn's advice.

She is heard speaking to a weeping caller, and giving emotional advice in her final monologue.

Throwing: Clad in a wildly over the top dress in orange and wearing pink gloves, she clutches the $1,675 Timmy Woods bag that fans first saw in the first Sex And The City Movie while she is apartment hunting with Big

Carrie says: 'The more I live the more I find myself mystified. So much is life just doesn't seem to make sense but if there's anything I've learnt from my recent loss is that you will laugh again especially if you have one or two good friends in your corner. And as for love, anything is possible...

'The future is unwritten. I'm glad that helps. Well that's it for my very first podcast. I'll get better. So till next time. I'm Carrie Bradshaw, and this... is Sex And The City.'

Franklyn says: 'I feel like it couldn't have gone any better... How do you feel? She says: 'Oh like it could have gone better' He says: 'Well sure, you were great. Just great. Really.'

Faux affronted, Carrie replies: 'You made it so lost. Everytime I felt lost, you were there looking back at me'.

With the end of the episode wrapping up with a neat 'And Just Like That...', followed by a conclusion, this episode ended without a conclusive note - leaving things open for a return.
Yet his approach to politics is familiar to many Black Americans. Living as a Black person in America means facing hard truths; it sometimes requires holding two conflicting ideas in mind. Mr. Adams has tapped into the duality of being Black in New York City: Many Black neighborhoods are simultaneously underpoliced and overpoliced. Mr. Adamss willingness to work with the police while also identifying the systemic inequities within the department contributes to a leadership ideology that may be off-putting to some, but that makes perfect sense to many Black New Yorkers.

Too often Americans settle for cookie-cutter politicians with familiar political viewpoints. Mr. Adams is clearly idiosyncratic  a mayor who took his first paycheck in cryptocurrency; who stands shoulder to shoulder with the police union president and Trump supporter Patrick Lynch but also was tacitly endorsed by his progressive predecessor, Bill de Blasio; who once displayed drowned rats on the steps of Brooklyn Borough Hall to bring awareness to the infestation in housing projects. He prides himself on straight talk, a hands-on approach, and loyalty to those loyal to him (no matter their past transgressions).

In his style, Mr. Adams is in many ways the opposite of the citys first Black mayor, David Dinkins, who won the mayoralty in 1989 thanks to his gorgeous mosaic  a diverse and relatively elite citywide coalition. Mr. Adams built a diverse coalition throughout the five boroughs, too, but it was slightly more ethnic and less affluent. He won the Democratic mayoral primary last year with 50.4 percent of the vote after eight rounds of the new ranked-choice voting system  a process that, interestingly, yielded a moderate leader in a seemingly progressive city. His early approval ratings show support from New Yorkers across racial lines.

Critiques of mayors are brutal, and those of Black mayors even more so. Mr. Adams does not have it easy. He is trying to confront a life-or-death issue for all New Yorkers, one that Black New Yorkers know particularly well: gun violence and public safety. The testing of Mr. Adams has begun, a testing of what it means to be a Black leader in America today.
In a massive show of strength ahead of their indefinite from February 7, government employees and teachers from across gathered in Vijayawada on Thursday, defying police ban and restrictions to press their demand for a higher pay revision.

It was one of the biggest gatherings seen in recent years as employees, teachers and pensioners came together for 'Chalo Vijayawada' called by 'PRC Sadhana Samiti', the joint action committee of all unions of employees and pensioners.

BRTS road in the city reverberated with slogans of awe want justice'. Holding flags of their respective unions and banners, the protestors took out a massive rally from AP NGO Bhavan to BRTS Road.

The protest was a roaring success as organisers claimed that one lakh people participated in it while three lakh more were stopped by the police in various parts of the state.

The police, which had denied permission for the protest in view of Covid-19 situation and set up checkposts, could do nothing to stop a wave of protestors flooding the key artery in the city. Defying all restrictions, employees, teachers, pensioners and even contract employees reached the venue.

Despite the checkposts, barricades and other measures taken by the police, protestors poured in from all directions. Many reached by cars, three-wheelers and even by two-wheelers to join what is described as the biggest demonstration by government employees in many years.

The protestors marched through the BRTS road. Some adopted novel methods to lodge their protest by singing or by even begging.

They demanded that the government take back the Government Order (GO) issued last month, fixing new pay scales as per 23 per cent pay revision. They argue that since they were receiving 27 per cent interim relief the GO has led to downward revision in their salaries.

The employees are demanding that the government make public Pay Revision Commission (PRC) report.

"Our demands are just. We are demanding the government to give us our rights," said an employee participating in the rally.

The employees criticised the 'adamant' attitude of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government. "We don't want your reverse PRC. Pay us salaries as per the old pay scales," said another employee.

Addressing the mammoth gathering, the leaders of PRC Sadhana Samiti made it clear that their protest will continue till the government accepts their demands.

"The government stopped buses and trains but it could not stop employees," said one of the leaders Bandi Srinivasa Rao.

The leaders said the employees would go ahead with the from February 7. They said the entire administration will come to a standstill and the government would be responsible for the inconvenience caused to the people.

They demanded Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to intervene and call them for talks to resolve the issue. "We are protesting in a peaceful manner. Still everything's not lost. We request the chief minister to intervene and accept our just demands," he said.

Despite police denying permission for the protest and the curbs imposed across the state, large number of employees, teachers and pensioners managed to reach here on a call given by called Raising slogans of 'we want justice' and The rally brought traffic to a halt in the busy areas.

Police had denied permission for 'Chalo Vijayawada' and detained several leaders across the state.

Citing the denial of permission for the protest program in view of Covid-19 pandemic situation, the police detained leaders of various unions of government employees and teachers in various districts.

The leaders were either placed under house arrest or summoned to police stations to serve notices, directing them not to leave for Vijayawada for the protest. They were being told that if they go ahead with the protest, action will be taken against them as per law.

Vijayawada Police Commissioner Kanti Rana Tata had said that there was no permission for 'Chalo Vijayawada'. He said as per the guidelines issued by the central and state governments, any program with a gathering of more than 200 should not be allowed. The commissioner said since over 5,000 employees are likely to participate in 'Chalo Vijayawada' permission was not given for the same.

Meanwhile, home minister M. Sucharita denied that employees were arrested or stopped. She said the issue can be solved only through talks.

#WATCH | Vijaywada: Thousands of govt employees protest against Andhra Pradesh Govt's new Pay Revision Commission, demanding amendments to it. pic.twitter.com/ABAa0KahRu  ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2022

--IANS

ms/shb/

(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.)
Cesarini calls out racists after discovering at 34 years of age that she is "not Italian like many others."

Italian actress Lorena Cesarini delivered a stirring monologue against racism from the stage of Italy's Sanremo Music Festival, which she co-hosted with TV presenter Amadeus on Wednesday night.

Born in Dakar to a Senegalese mother and an Italian father, Cesarini grew up in Rome and says she is "very proud" to be Italian.

However following news of her selection as one of the five Sanremo co-hosts she has been on the receiving end of racist insults and hatred on social media, a phenomenon she had never experienced until now.

"At 34 I discover that it is not true that I am an Italian girl like many others, I am black, until today nobody at school, at university, at work, on the tram ever felt the need to tell me" but now "evidently for some people skin colour is a problem, to the point that they wanted to let everyone know."

Some of the comments Cesarini read online included: "She doesn't deserve it, they only picked her because she is black" and "The extracomunitaria (non-EU citizen) has arrived" as well as "They must have called her to wash the stairs and water the flowers."

At the beginning she said she "felt bad, then I also got angry, before it passed", however she was left with one question: "Why? Why are there those who get mad at my presence on this stage, why are there people who have problems with the colour of my skin".

Telling the Sanremo audience that she is "not here to teach you a lesson, I wouldn't even be able to", an emotional Cesarini said: "The most important thing is to ask why", to get away from "cliches, preconceived judgments, insults, judgments on the tram."

Cesarini concluded her monologue, in tears, reading a passage from Racism Explained to My Daughter by Tahar Ben Jelloun, who wrote that racism "has no scientific basis, because there is only one human race."

Reaction

Cesarini, who is known for her role as Isabel in the Rome crime series Suburra , drew applause from the Sanremo audience and praise from many commentators on social media.

However she also attracted an avalanche of criticism online, with comments ranging from "annoying" and "pathetic" to accusations of "propaganda" and "playing the victim."

One person, commenting under a post on an Italian news site, put it this way: "Just read a few of these comments and you realise that she is absolutely right. We still have a long way to go."

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New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Supreme Court on Thursday sought response from the Punjab government in connection with false cases filed against a woman, who has levelled rape allegations against Lok Insaf Party MLA Simarjeet Singh Bains.

A bench headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana told senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Bains, "Have you seen your client's activity? How your man is harassing people, he is a public representative... MLA for two times, is this the way to behave?" The bench, also comprising Justices A.S. Bopanna and Hima Kohli sought presence of the D.S. Patwalia, Advocate General of the Punjab government in the matter.

The Chief Justice told Patwalia, during the virtual hearing, "What is happening in your state? How many cases he has filed against the lady, and he wants anticipatory bail and the lady should go to jail. You can't be a party to such kind of misuse of police machinery..." The Punjab government counsel submitted before the bench that it was a dispute between both of the parties and the state government did not have much to do in the matter. Later, he agreed that as guardians of law it is the state government's duty to protect the people.

Rohatgi contended that the woman was running a job racket and she had taken money from many people promising a job in Canada. He added that people who were duped have filed cases against her. "Cases filed by people who gave lakhs of rupees for jobs in Canada", said Rohatgi.

After a brief hearing in the matter, the bench asked the Punjab government to file a counter affidavit within a week in the matter and stayed the proceedings in the cases filed against the woman. The bench also granted interim protection to Bains for a week and listed the matter for further hearing after one week.

On Tuesday, the top court extended the interim protection granted to Bains by two days, in cases filed against him for offences of rape and violation of Covid protocol.

Bains moved the top court after the Punjab and Haryana High Court had declined to grant him relief.
Last week, Joe Biden declared that he intends to nominate "the first Black woman ever nominated to the United States Supreme Court."

Joe Biden had reportedly promised House majority whip Jim Clyburn during the 2020 campaign that he would nominate a Black woman to the Supreme Court.

So what does one make of this declaration?

It is a grave affront to any candidate for any position to be openly declared as a "diversity" hire because it means that the primary criteria for her selection are genetics and not merit.

Besides being anachronistic, Biden's public declaration is an insult to the nominee. History will always recognize her as one who secured the position because of her race and sex, which are an accident of nature, and not because of her record, which is a product of her work.

As Professor Dershowitz and others argue, Biden's racial and sex test for office is unconstitutional. The 14th amendment of the U.S. Constitution states:

All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

The 19th Amendment to the Constitution states:

The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.

In 1978, in the Regents of University of California v. Bakke case, the Supreme Court ruled that the use of racial "quotas" for its selection process is unconstitutional.

Hence, the Constitution is being violated to fill a position whose function it is to defend the Constitution. Biden's commitment is an act of discriminating against all those who are not Black.

Why would any self-respecting individual accept a position that is an insult to her achievements, an act of discrimination against others, and unconstitutional?

A recent ABC News/Ipsos poll showed that 76 percent of Americans wanted "all possible nominees" to be considered, while just 23 percent want only Black women for the nomination.

When a sitting president fails in his duties toward the Constitution, it is the job of lawmakers to step up and defend the Constitution, which affirms the founding principles of the nation.

That responsibility is in the hands of Republican senators.

Currently, the Supreme Court comprises six conservative justices and three liberal judges. But justices do not always rule based on their ideology or the tenets of the Constitution.

Conservative justices Roberts and Kavanaugh are known to vote with the liberal bloc. They recently voted in favor of vaccine mandates for health workers. Supreme Court justices have lifetime appointments and in practice usually remain in their position for at least two decades. The impact of their rulings and votes can be permanent. This makes the appointment of a Supreme Court justice vitally important.

Judging by the other his other appointments, Biden's candidate is likely to be a Marxist masquerading as a moderate.

The White House has acknowledged that South Carolina federal Judge J. Michelle Childs is under consideration after Jim Clyburn signaled that at least two Republican senators see her as Biden's best bet.

When conservatives Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh were up for nomination, the Democrats led a prolonged rancorous trial by media on baseless allegations of sexual harassment. Despite the fact that the allegations were unproven, liberal commentators still state them as if they were facts.

This could be payback against Biden, who is the founder of toxicity and rancor during the judicial confirmation process. It was Biden who smeared Robert Bork, Supreme Court nominee from 1987, as a racist, and Biden also led the attack against Clarence Thomas.

But the GOP can do this without stooping to the level of the Democrats.

Biden's nomination can be rejected on principle because the Supreme Court justice nomination based on racial and sex quotas is in violation of a Supreme Court ruling and the Constitution. Thus, the nomination makes a mockery of the entire system.

By making an explicit mention of his selection criteria based on race and sex, Biden has admitted to an act of discrimination. This is another valid reason for the Republicans to reject the nominee.

In addition to that, they can also summon various individuals who have suffered as a result of the unjust rulings of the nominee. Perhaps she was lenient with criminals who eventually committed bigger crimes. A case can then be made that the individual is a staunch ideologue, which makes her unfit for the position.

The nominee could be questioned about her acceptance of the nomination as a diversity hire and asked to condemn Biden's act of discrimination.

At this juncture, Biden, owing to his myriad catastrophes, is struggling in the polls. Even his propagandists are unable to cover him favorably.

Biden could have nominated a Black woman without an explicit declaration of such criteria.

The criteria were stated because Biden's handlers see this as a win-win situation. A confirmation could revive his presidency and may improve the chances for Democrats during the midterms. If the nominee is rejected, the GOP will be called racist, which the Democrats think will help them in the midterms.

Opposing this nomination would be an opportunity for the GOP to embrace popular revulsion for an explicit race- and sex-based test and further weaken Biden for 2024 and annihilate the Democrats in the midterms.

How have the Republicans reacted thus far?

Republican senators Lindsey Graham (obviously) and Tim Scott from South Carolina have praised potential nominee Judge Childs.

Republican Sens. Burr of North Carolina, Cassidy of Louisiana, Collins of Maine, Murkowski of Alaska, Romney of Utah, Sasse of Nebraska, and Toomey of Pennsylvania broke party lines to convict President Trump for the occurrences of January 6, 2021. Perhaps they too will support Biden's nominee?

A majority of the rest are probably mortified of being called a racist or sexist in the media.

The GOP should not forget that they have on their side both principles, in the form of a Supreme Court ruling and the 14th and 19th Amendments to the Constitution, and popular opinion based on a rejection of Democrat policies and a poll that opposes discrimination.

The GOP should remember that the race card has been played for so long that it has no impact. The GOP should learn to fight back and call out Democrat racism.

Photo credit: Sunira Moses, CC BY-SA 3.0 license.
DES MOINES  Education policy affecting K-12 schools, including creating a parental bill of rights and a voucher program allowing families to use public money for private tuition, was front and center Wednesday at the Iowa Capitol.

Up for discussion were legislative proposals that would:

Create a parents bill of rights to guarantee parents access to curriculum, information related to teachers and other school workers, and records relating to their student; and to prohibit requiring any student to engage in any instruction or activity that involves content that is obscene as defined by state law.

Expand a state program that provides grants to teachers and add focus to small, rural schools; provide an accelerated path a teachers license; and authorize districts to use their funds to create a student loan forgiveness program for new teachers.

And, under a sweeping proposal from Gov. Kim Reynolds, expand the program that uses taxpayer funding for private school tuition assistance, require schools to publish a catalog of all curriculum and library materials online and require schools to establish a process for addressing parents concerns about those materials.







Governors bill

A packed committee room, plus dozens more who participated virtually, discussed the governors bill. Earlier in the day, Reynolds made a pitch for her bill during a news conference.

I think informed parents make informed choices, Reynolds said, referring to the transparency piece of her proposal. She added, on the taxpayer funding for private school tuition, If (a public school) doesnt reflect your values, then as a parent, you should have an option. And it shouldnt just be for wealthy people that can afford to send their child to the school that they want to.

At the hearing, many parents, private school students and advocates for school choice spoke in favor the taxpayer-funded tuition assistance. The legislation was advanced to the full Senate Education Committee.

We Iowa taxpayers fund education in the first place for children. Its not for buildings, its not even primarily for school personnel. Its for the kids, said Chuck Hurley, with the Family Leader, a conservative Christian advocacy organization.

Advocates for public education expressed concern about what the funding of private tuition could mean for the future of public education, and that the taxpayer-funded tuition assistance does not come with the same degree of oversight as does public education funding.

Iowa Senate president's comments were appalling I'm appalled that Iowa Republican Senate President Jake Chapman believes there is a "siniste

If youre going to accept the kings coin, you should follow the kings rule. That doesnt happen in this bill, said Melissa Petersen, with the Iowa State Education Association, the states largest public education union.

Parents bill of rights

The proposed parents bill of rights received widespread support, from both Republicans and Democrats on the panel, as well as advocates for education and parents. The measure was advanced to the full Senate Education Committee.

Sen. Amy Sinclair, R-Allerton, chair of the Senate Education Committee, said the bill effectively puts into state law many practices that already are taking place and gathers into one place the current court rulings and federal regulations.

We want to bring it all into one place to talk about that parents are ultimately in the drivers seat in their childs education, Sinclair said.

Sen. Herman Quirmbach, D-Ames, a professor at Iowa State University and the top Democrat on the Education Committee, said he supports the legislation and its intent of keeping parents involved in their childrens education.

Certainly we want parents involved in their childrens education. Theres no question about that whatsoever, Quirmbach said. You cant do that if parents are not informed.  We need to have schools and parents working together, and parents need to have that information.

A number of parents attended the hearing to express concerns with books in school libraries. Nationwide, there has been a push by some parents who want the removal of some books they deem to be obscene or graphic. While the books vary, they typically involve LGBTQ characters or are written by LGBTQ authors, and the objections are over passages that describe sexual acts.

Some of the parents who attended the hearing asked lawmakers to change the states definition of obscene in order to make the use of those books illegal.

Quirmbach and Sen. Jeff Taylor, a Republican from Sioux Center, explained that would be challenging and potentially troublesome because the state definition of obscene was compiled using years of case law, including U.S. Supreme Court rulings.

Teacher shortage

The Senate Education Committee approved with bipartisan support proposals meant to address teacher shortages.

Quirmbach said he likes the proposals, but added that another way to help schools to attract and retain teachers would be to provide more state funding so districts could pay higher salaries.

On the school funding front, Reynolds has proposed a 2.5% increase in general state funding to K-12 public schools. That would be an increase of roughly $154 million. Senate Republicans have proposed a 2.25% increase. Democrats have proposed a 5% increase, which would be just less than $300 million in new funding.

Historically, general state funding to K-12 schools increased an average of 5% annually over the first 38 years under the current funding formula, according to data from the states nonpartisan fiscal analysis agency. Since 2011, when Republicans regained at least a portion of control over the lawmaking process, that average annual K-12 funding increase has been 1.9%.
The highly infectious Omicron variant of coronavirus is known as BA.1. It is the cause of nearly all of the new coronavirus infections worldwide. Cases, however, seem to be decreasing in some countries.

But scientists are now following a rise in cases caused by the closely related BA.2. It is being called a sub-variant of Omicron. It is starting to overtake BA.1 in parts of Europe and Asia.

A sub-variant of the new coronavirus

Worldwide, BA.1 has been linked to more than 98 percent of cases that had genomes sequenced, reported GISAID on January 25. GISAID is an international science organization that studies and releases scientific information about viruses.

But several countries are reporting increases in the sub-variant known as BA.2, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported. BA.2 does not cause more severe illness than BA.1, the WHO also said.

In addition to BA.1 and BA.2, the WHO lists two other Omicron sub-variants BA.1.1.529 and BA.3. All are closely related genetically. But each has a mutation that could affect how it behaves.

Trevor Bedford is a virologist at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington. He has been studying the variants of the new coronavirus.

He wrote on Twitter recently that BA.2 makes up about 82 percent of cases in Denmark, 9 percent of the cases in Britain and 8 percent in the United States. These percentages come from his examination of the genome sequencing information provided by GISAID as well as information from the University of Oxford.

Omicrons BA.1 variant has been somewhat easier to follow than earlier variants. That is because BA.1 is missing one of three important genes contained in earlier variants. For this reason it can be easily identified.

BA.2 is sometimes called a "stealth" sub-variant. It does not have the same missing gene. Instead, scientists are following it the same way they have followed earlier variants, including Delta. They do this by counting the number of virus genomes given to organizations such as GISAID.

As with other variants, an infection with BA.2 can be confirmed by using coronavirus home tests. Experts, however, have said that the home tests cannot identify which variant is responsible for an infection.

More infectious?

A Danish study reports that BA.2 is more infectious than BA.1, and is able to infect those who are vaccinated, but it does not cause more severe illness.

In England, the UK Health Security Agency studied contact information for people infected with COVID-19 from December 27, 2021, through January 11, 2022. The Agency suggested that transmission within homes is a little higher among people infected with BA.2. That rate was around 13 percent. With Omicron cases the infection rate was 10 percent. There appears to be no difference in vaccine effectiveness.

The important question is whether people who were infected with the BA.1 will be protected from BA.2, said Dr. Egon Ozer. He is an infectious disease expert at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago.

In Denmark, some places that had a high number of cases of BA.1 were reporting rising cases of BA.2, Ozer said.

If BA.1 infection does not protect against BA.2, it could create another round of infections.

"It's too early to know if that will happen," Ozer said.

The good news, he said, is that vaccines and booster shots still "keep people out of the hospital and keep people from dying."

Im Susan Shand.

The Reuters News Agency reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English.

Words in This Story

variant  n. something that is different in some way from others of the same kind

sequence  v. to find out the order of chemical substances (such as amino-acids in DNA)

mutation n. a change in the genes of a plant or animal that causes a different quality to be recognized

virologist  n. a scientist who studies viruses and the diseases they cause

stealth  adj. a secret, quiet, and clever way of moving or behaving

transmission  n. the act or process by which something (in this case, a virus) is spread or passed from one person or thing to another

booster shot  n. an extra amount of a vaccine that is injected into a person or animal to help protect against a disease

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Britons did not drink more alcohol during the first year of the pandemic  contrary to popular belief, a major study has found.

Researchers looked at data from 300,000 adults to see how our drinking habits changed during lockdowns.

They found that the total number of alcohol units consumed each week did not change when restrictions were imposed in March 2020.

The finding comes despite numerous other studies suggesting Brits hit the bottle harder during the draconian restrictions.

However, there was a shift to at-home drinking in the late evening during lockdown, as well as an increase in solitary drinking, the new study found.

Researchers at the University of Glasgow and University of Sheffield found that, on average, people in England and Scotland started drinking 35minutes later than usual.

For Scots in lockdown, the average time to start drinking was 6.25pm, for people in England it was 6.04pm.

Lead author of the study, Glasgow's Dr Iain Hardie, said: 'Going forward it remains unclear what the long-term consequences will be of the changes in alcohol consumption in 2020.'

Researchers are concerned that some people will find the drinking habits they forged during the Covid lockdowns hard to break

He added that while it was likely alcohol consumption in hospitality venues will return to normal, the real concern is the impact of the drinking habits Britons learned during lockdown.

'The increase in home drinking in 2020 is a concern. We know from other studies that alcohol-related harm has risen during the pandemic. The increase in home drinking is likely to have contributed to this,' he said.

Lockdowns only reduced COVID mortality by 0.2% at 'enormous economic and social costs' The original coronavirus lockdowns had 'little to no' effect on pandemic death tolls in the US, UK and Europe, a controversial report suggests. Economists who carried out a meta-analysis found draconian restrictions imposed in spring 2020  including stay-at-home orders, compulsory masks and social distancing  only reduced Covid mortality by 0.2 per cent. They warned that lockdowns caused 'enormous economic and social costs' and concluded they were 'ill-founded and should be rejected as a pandemic policy instrument' going forward. The review, led by a Johns Hopkins University professor, argued that border closures had virtually zero effect on Covid mortality, reducing deaths by just 0.1 per cent. However, closing nonessential shops was found to be the most effective intervention, leading to a 10.6 per cent drop in virus fatalities. Their report, which has not been peer-reviewed, said that this was probably due to shutting pubs and restaurants where alcohol is consumed. School closures were linked to a smaller 4.4 per cent decrease. Critics have accused them of 'cherry-picking' studies to suit their narrative and have raised doubts about the biases of its authors, who have been vocal about lockdowns and vaccine mandates on social media. Most scientists believe that, before the arrival of vaccines and antivirals, lockdowns had a significant effect on cutting transmission and therefore reducing the number of hospital admissions and deaths caused by Covid. Advertisement

'In the past, home drinking has been a relatively under-researched topic, and there is now a need to monitor it more going forward to find out whether these home drinking habits picked up by people in 2020 become a new norm within peoples drinking behaviour.'

Co-author of the study, Sheffields Dr Abigail Stevely, suggested the late night drinking observed in the data might be due to lack of daytime socialising.

'Despite some concerns that people might drink more in the daytime, we actually found that there was a shift towards people starting drinking later in the evening during lockdown restrictions,' she said.

'This perhaps reflects changes in peoples routines and the absence of opportunities for daytime socialising such as going to the pub with colleagues after work.'

She added that while their study did not find an increase in overall alcohol consumed during the lockdown, compared to previous years, there were concerns some individual drinkers had been hit harder than others.

'Although we found that lockdown restrictions did not change overall levels of alcohol consumption, there is evidence from other studies that heavier drinkers may have increased their consumption,' she said.

'It will be therefore important to continue monitoring drinking during the pandemic to prevent additional health problems in future.'

This new research is the latest in a plethora of studies examining how the coronavirus lockdowns in 2020 influenced the UK's drinking habits.

Many found that Britons did drink more over lockdown, while others saw little change in the amount of alcohol physically bought but instead a change in habits.

These included some UK drinkers consuming more individually, while others cut back, and a rise in binge drinking events where more alcohol was consumed in a single event.

In the latest research, the team studied 41,500 adult drinkers in Scotland and more than 250,000 in England, focusing on the original March 2020 lockdown, the easing of restrictions in July 2020 and the onset of further restrictions in September 2020 until December 2020.

The participants were recruited through a long-running online survey on alcohol habits that has been running since 2009.

They compared pre-lockdown results of 38,682 Scots and 236,405 English people compared with those who did the survey in 2020 from the initial lockdown onwards.

Publishing their findings in the journal Addiction the team also found there had been a rise in solitary drinking in Scotland.

However, the researchers said this could be explained by the higher proportion of Scots who live alone compared to England.
Tunisia has resumed talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a loan and expects to reach a deal by April, Finance Minister has told Reuters, Tunis Numerique reports.

Sihem Nemsia, revealed that talks between two sides were suspended in July by President Kais Saied who rejected conditions for the multiple of millions of dollars loan.

Tunisia turned to the IMF last year for financial support to overcome economic hardship exacerbated by the pandemic.

IFM wants the North African to initiate a number of reforms including the subsidy scheme and a cut in civil service payroll as well as political reforms.

Tunisia has slid into political uncertainty and has been without a parliament since July 25 after Saied froze the activities of the state legislature and suspended the immunity of its members.

The Washington-based institution and international lenders got cold feet following Saieds move.

Nemsia also indicated that the talks have resumed after Saied announced online consultations and legislative elections this year.

The resumption of talks come amid ever more harsh financial difficulties that have gripped the country. Tunisia struggled to pay January salaries of most workers on the government payroll. Early this week, the unions of university lecturers and basic education revealed that they did not receive their January salaries and threatened to stage strikes.

The Saied administration unveiled in December a national budget of over $16 billion including a $2.8 billion deficit.

Saudi Arabia has pledged to help close the gap with reportedly $500 million but provided that the IMF-recommended reforms are implemented.

Libya, plagued by internal divisions, is also keen to provide $500 million. Only Algeria so far transferred $300 million into the coffers of the Tunisian central bank.
American scientists have announced another step toward producing energy from nuclear fusion.

U.S. government researchers said they were able to cause a fusion reaction that sustained itself and produced energy for a very short period. The scientists said this was an important step because it is very difficult to get fusion to become self-sustaining. Fusion requires extremely high temperatures and pressures, and the process can easily stop.

Fusion happens when the nuclei of two atoms are subjected to extreme heat. This leads to the formation of a new, larger atom and the release of energy. Fusion is the process that fuels stars, including the sun. Some experts have suggested that someday, fusion energy could be used to provide limitless, pollution-free power.

One barrier to that goal is the fact that the fusion process itself needs a lot of energy. Scientists have not yet performed a fusion reaction that releases more energy than it requires.

Government scientists with the National Ignition Facility at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California carried out the experiments. The lab is part of the U.S. Department of Energy.

The experiments took place in November 2020 and February 2021. Research results recently appeared in a study in the publication Nature Physics.

The state reached in the experiments is called burning plasma. Plasma is one of the four main states of matter. It contains charged particles including ions and electrons. The Department of Energy explains that burning plasma is one in which most of the plasma heating comes from fusion reactions.

Alex Zylstra is an experimental physicist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. He helped lead the research. Zylstra told Reuters that the process is similar to trying to start a fire.

"If you want to make a campfire, you want to get the fire hot enough that the wood can keep itself burning," he said. "This is a good analogy for a burning plasma, where the fusion is now starting to become self-sustaining."

The experiments involved aiming 192 lasers at a small capsule held inside a gold metal container. The researchers reported the process heats the capsule to about 100 million degrees Celsius. This creates about 50 percent more pressure inside the capsule than what is inside the center of the sun.

The experiments created burning plasmas that lasted just one trillionth of a second. But Zylstra said that was enough to be considered a success. He said fusion had produced about 10 times as much energy as went into heating the fuel. But it produced less than 10 percent of the total amount of laser energy because the process remains inefficient, Zylstra added.

The amount of energy produced was far more than in past experiments, the researchers said. But it was still small, about the same amount that is contained in nine-volt batteries.

Earlier experiments in the U.S. and Britain succeeded in fusing atoms, but produced no self-heating, Steven Cowley told The Associated Press. He directs the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory in New Jersey but did not take part in the study.

Zylstra said making fusion remains a huge and "complex technological challenge. It will require serious investments and many years of study before it can be considered a realistic form of energy production, he added.

Im Bryan Lynn.

The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse reported on this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the reports for VOA Learning English.

Quiz - US Researchers Report Successful Fusion Reaction Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

_____________________________________________

Words in This Story

reaction  n. a change that happens when two substances are put together

sustain  v. to cause or permit something to continue for a period of time

nuclei (pl.) (nucleus) n. (physics) the central part of an atom which contains protons and neutrons

analogy  n. a comparison that shows how two things are similar

capsule  n. a small container

inefficient  adj. not achieving maximum productivity

battery  n. a device that provides and stores electricity for things

challenge  n. a difficult task or problem; something that is hard to do

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Ontario Labour Minister Monte McNaughton takes to the podium during a news conference in Toronto on Wednesday April 28, 2021. Ontario wants to develop a portable benefits system tied to workers who dont have health, dental or vision care that will follow them if they change jobs. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young
New Delhi:

Delivering the second Atal Bihari Vajpayee memorial lecture on Monday, former President Pranab Mukherjee stressed upon the need to increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 1,000 through delimitation. Advocating the need to increase number of seats, Mukherjee said that last enhancement of seats in the lower house of Parliament took place in 1977 when the population of the country was 55-crore. Along with Lok Sabha, former President said, the number of seats in Rajya Sabha should be increased.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee: Every time a govt has behaved on the contrary the voter has punished the incumbent in elections that follow. We think we can do anything & everything, when we have an overwhelming majority in legislature but that should not be the case. (16.12) https://t.co/m8UHNBgCe1  ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2019

Giving impetus to the need of increasing seats, he added, In 1977, population was 55 crore or 550 million whereas today it stands at 1.3 billion. There has been an embargo on increasing the seats in Parliament and in state assemblies till 2026. Even by 2011 census of population, the number of voters has increased per Lok Sabha constituency.

If British can have 650 parliamentarians, Canada can have 443 and US 535 why can't we have 1000?, Pranab Mukherjee added.

Convert central Hall into Lok Sabha and Lower House premises can be turned into Rajya Sabha. And also have an adequate number of women representatives. We have the highest percentage of 14.6 per cent of the total house strength elected since 1952, news agency ANI quotes the former President as saying.

He advocated to give powers to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which is a watchdog of Parliament as it keeps close eye on its expenditure.

He recommended to increase the number of members in each parliamentary standing Committee and to transfer power to standing committees to scrutinise financial irregularities, flagged in Comptroller and Auditor General reports if there are any.

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We list the legal and financial benefits of registering as an NGO in India and the tax status of non-profit organizations in the country.

An NGO (non-government organization) is a non-profit association that functions independently. In India, NGOs can be registered as a Society, Trust, and Section 8 companies  depending on their scope of activities.

NGOs may be involved across a wide range of activities, voluntary and group-based or institutional, with the underpinning factor being that they are for the benefit of society at large or some specific or at-risk social group.

Activities performed by NGOs include but are not limited to  environmental, social, advocacy, education, and human rights work.

There are three legal ways an NGO can be registered, which are as follows:

Trust registration under The Indian Trust Act, 1882 Society registration under Societies Registration Act, 1860 Section 8 company registrations under The Companies Act, 2013

Benefits of registering as an NGO in India

1. Avail tax exemption

Registering the company as an NGO under the Companies Act, 2013 helps in availing several taxation benefits. NGOs are exempt from several taxes, which helps the organization utilize the saved money in further projects.

2. Right to acquire assets

When your organization is officially registered, it is permitted to acquire land, own fixed assets, and/or acquire liabilities under its common seal. It is against the law for an unregistered organization to buy, hold, and/or sell land anywhere.

3. No minimum share capital requirement

No minimum share capital requirement is needed to function independently. NGOs can be directly funded with the charity made to them. This means that NGOs do not need a higher share capital to function independently.

4. Protection from personal liability

You can buy, acquire, and register assets and stakes in the name of your NGO. This is a way to protect your organization from unlimited liability due to untoward occurrence, such as foreclosure, bankruptcy, judgment debt, or divorce, etc.

5. Transfer of ownership

Under the Income Tax Act, 1961, NGOs registered under the Companies Act, 2013 are not restricted from transferring their ownership or claims of the interests earned.

6. Exemption on stamp duty

Under the Income Tax Act, section 8 companies as NGOs are exempted from stamp duty, which results in more tax-saving methods for the company. All the taxes saved through stamp duty are then invested in the promotion of the objectives taken up by the company.

7. Structured financial plan

Having an NGO can bear a tax-free mechanism for actions you are carrying-on under the registered NGO. NGOs are considered not-for-profit and tax exempted. You can develop a structured financial plan that allows the organization to do business devoid of tax liabilities.

8. Stability of entity

The registration of your organization can suggest that there is effective and responsible leadership in place and the public will perceive the same. Political parties, government, donor agencies, financial institutions, charity organizations, and other NGOs will want to partner with a registered body to further common objectives.

9. Perpetual succession

This means an NGO has an unlimited lifetime and will carry on existing even if the founder/trustees die or leave the NGO. The organizations continuation will only cease if it is formally wound up by the Order of Court of India. Along with other benefits, this may allow perpetual succession.

10. Admission to credit

Registering an NGO can afford access to credit from lenders and financial institutions. You can use a loan facility to promote the organizations activities, finance a mortgage, acquire land, or fixed assets. Banks will want to see proof of registration with condition precedent to giving a loan.

11. Name preservation

Once your organization is registered, no one can use the same name or a name similar to it  throughout India. This has the benefit of protecting your corporate image and name from unauthorized use.

12. Opening a bank account

Opening a corporate account with a bank for the NGO may signal the fact that it is financially transparent. Some private persons, government, donor agencies, and other NGOs will not be comfortable writing you a check for your organization in your personal name. A bank account for the NGO would signal its corporate existence and its readiness to receive donations. You need to provide proof that your organization is registered to be able to open such an account.

How an NGO qualifies for tax exemption in India

Registering an NGO in India is beneficial for many reasons. The basic reason is the rebate received in income tax under Section 12A and 80G. NGOs with 12A-registration can claim an exemption from the income tax department. NGOs with 80G-certification attract more donors for donating funds to the organization. If NGOs are not registered, they are subject to regular tax rates.

Furthermore, attracting donors for donations becomes difficult. Earlier the registration under 12A was a one-time registration and valid till its cancellation. But with effect from April 1, 2021, the registration granted under section 12AB will remain valid for five years only. However, a provisional registration shall be valid for three years only.

All NGO registration approvals granted under section 12AB shall be subject to renewal as determined under the new scheme of registration. All existing charitable trust and institutions and those registered under sections 10(23C), 12A,12AA and 80G of the Income Tax Act shall be required to register themselves under the new amended section 12AB to claim tax exemption under sections 11 and 12.

Since NGOs attract donations from corporates and individuals, they are required to have stringent measures in place to ensure transparency and efficiency. The government provides such organizations with various tax benefits and deductions as they perform charitable activities / social work.

Why should NGOs in India apply for registration under sections 12A and 80G?

Sections 12A and 80G have their own implications and offer many benefits to NGOs. Some advantages are listed below:

An NGO can get tax exemption simply by getting itself registered under sections 12A and 80G  subject to fulfilment of some conditions.

The person/ entity making donations can avail tax benefits only if the NGO receives a certificate under 12A and 80G.

The person or organization will get a tax rebate of 50 percent of donation amount from the total income.

An NGO will receive government funding, only if registered under sections 12A and 80G.

Eligibility criteria for NGOs to get 12A and 80G certificate

The basic eligibility criteria to get 12A and 80G certificates are as follows:

The assets and income of the NGO should be for charitable purpose only.

The Books of Accounts should be properly maintained, including all receipts and expenditures.

NGOs should not be formed/work for the benefit of any particular religion, caste, or community.

The bylaws or objectives of the NGOs should not contain any provision for spending the income or assets of the NGO for the purposes other than charitable purposes.

In case an NGO has a business income then the trustee of the NGO should maintain separate books of accounts to assure that the donations are not diverted.

Key points to remember

To summarize, registration under section 12A provides tax exemption to NGOs and section 80G works for the benefit of individuals and organizations willing to save tax. It is better to make donations by way of check or online banking transfer. The application for 12A and 80G registration can be filed together or separately under section 12AB. It is up to the commissioner to accept or reject the application for registration of NGOs or trust until they are satisfied about genuineness of the activity of the NGO/trust. The document should be adequately submitted to avoid any chances of rejection.

The certification u/s 80G helps donors reduce their tax liability by 100 percent or 50 percent on the amount donated, depending on the nature of activities undertaken by the Trust/NGO. However, the 80 G certification does more than allowing donors to claim tax exemption on their donations.

Dezan Shira & Associates can help you set up your NGO in India and stay compliant with our advisory services. For more information, you may reach us at india@dezshira.com
At the peak of the #EndSARS protest in October 2020, properties and items worth over N73 billion were vandalised by thugs in Cross River State, the Senate has said.

Properties and businesses of top politicians in the state like the former governors of the state, Liyel Imoke and Donald Duke, were affected.

Serving and former senators from the state  Gershom Bassey, Ndoma Egba, Bassey Henshaw and a member of the House of Representatives, Etta Mbora, also fell victims of the vandalism.

This was contained in a report of the Joint Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Defence, Police Affairs and Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on the mayhem visited on the Ancient City of Calabar during the EndSARS Protest on 23rd and 24th of October, 2020.

In November 2020, the joint committee was asked to probe the alleged destruction of properties in the state after the Senate deliberated on a motion by Gershom Bassey on the mayhem in Calabar during the protest.

The #EndSARS protest, which lasted for over three weeks, saw both Nigerians across the country and foreigners across the world call for a total reform of the Police Force and particularly the dissolution of a unit, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The movement, which first began in 2017, erupted in fresh protests in October 2020 in cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Asaba, Ibadan, Osogbo, Benin City, Port Harcourt among others, over police brutality and extrajudicial killings by SARS operatives.

The protest was, however, hijacked by hoodlums at some point, in different cities as they attacked protesters and destroyed properties.

Senate panels report

In the 69-page report presented by its chairman, Ibrahim Gobir, the committee said investigative hearings revealed that the violence in Calabar, the state capital, which led to the looting and destruction of private and government-owned properties was largely spontaneous with no identified goals, leaders, sponsors or financiers, describing it as a free reign for amorphous groups, gangs and criminals.

Mr Gobir said the financial value of the vandalised items submitted by affected persons and verified by a committee set up by the state governor, Ben Ayade, amounts to the tune of N73 billion and the governor has since written to President Muhammadu Buhari requesting funds in the sum  to enable the state rebuild, reconstruct and compensate individuals and groups who had lost properts.

Findings

The committee noted that a total of 41 government properties were vandalised by hoodlums during the protest around Calabar Municipal and neighbouring Bakassi, Odukpani and Akpabuyo Local Government Areas of the state.

It said at the time of the invasion of homes, security agencies failed to promptly respond to distress calls from victims and several victims got hint of the planned attacks before the actual acts.

The Police, Department of State Services and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps were overwhelmed by the sheer number of the protesters who unleashed mayhem on Calabar.

While the Police lacked adequate personnel, vehicles, arms, ammunitions and other tactical equipment for effective policing of the city, 106 suspects were arrested, 90 per cent of which were indigenes of Akwa Ibom State.

Internally Displaced Persons of Bakassi Peninsular have not been resettled by the federal government, neither has any kind of respite given to them, the report read.

Testimony

In his presentation, Mr Gobir disclosed that one of the victims of the protest, a former senator, Mr Henshaw, appeared before the panel and narrated his ordeal.

He had said it took a miracle to get Mr Henshaw, his wife and daughter out from the mob which vandalised its way right into his bedroom.

Mr Gobir said Mr Henshaw told the panel that the attacks were deliberately orchestrated by some politicians who perceived them as political enemies.

He also said the former lawmaker attributed the violence to the displacement of the people of Bakassi as a result of ceding their homelands to the Republic of Cameroon, a situation which turned some of them into militants.

Mr Henshaw, according to Mr Gobir, also alleged that the protest was used as an opportunity by militants to unleash mayhem on the city, adding that he lost properties to the tune of N9.3 billion to the protest.

Recommendations

Top of the panels recommendations is a demand to the federal government to immediately evolve and reform the police.

This, it said, can be achieved by employing more able bodied personnel, injecting more financial resources for the purpose of procuring arms, ammunition and other policing gadgets, as well as undertaking regular trainings  to be in tandem with international best practices.

The Senate panel also recommended that educational programmes and curriculum should be geared towards inculcating functional education in the individuals; empowering them with academic, technical and vocational capabilities.

It advised the Cross River State Government to hold regular state security council meetings to ensure total safety of its citizens and their property, as well as treat the regular Intelligence Report of the DSS with utmost dispatch.

The state government was also advised to support state security bureaucracy financially and with equipment to make it more purposeful and effective.

There must be a synergy between the State Government and all the Federal Government Security Agencies domiciled and operating in the State for robust interchange and comprehensive deliverables, the panel said.

It also resolved to transmit the cost of N34.3 billion; and N10.9 billion to the Cross River State Government as amount to defray the cost of rebuilding and reconstructing vandalised and looted property belonging to private individuals and federal government agencies, respectively.

The Amnesty Office and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) were urged to provide relief materials and assistance to the victims of the mayhem.
New Delhi:

RSMSSB Librarian 2019 admit card is likely to be released soon. The admit card for the Librarian Post is going to be released by Rajasthan Subordinate and Ministerial Services Selection Board. Candidates who applied for the exam need to visit the official website of RSMSSB, i.e. rsmssb.rajasthan.gov.in to download the admit card. It is to note that RSMSSB written exam for the Librarian post will be held on December 29, 2019.

A total of 700 vacant positions of Librarian are going to be filled through this recruitment drive that is being conducted by Rajasthan Subordinate and Ministerial Services Selection Board.

According to the official notification released by the Rajasthan Subordinate and Ministerial Services Selection Board., the exam for Librarian post will be conducted from 11 AM to 2 PM. The written exam will comprise two papers of 100 marks and 200 marks. Paper 1 and paper 2 will include questions from the subjects of General Knowledge and Library & Information Science and computer knowledge. The qualifying marks in the written exam will be 40 percent marks and the paper will be objective type in nature.
WASHINGTON  A senior House Democrat called on Wednesday for the resignation of Louis DeJoy, the postmaster general, saying he flouted President Bidens plan to electrify the federal fleet by placing a multibillion-dollar order for mostly gasoline-powered vehicles.

Representative Gerald Connolly, the Virginia Democrat who leads the House subcommittee overseeing the United States Postal Service, called the move to invest in more gas-powered trucks antediluvian and a threat to the governments ability to tackle climate change.

The average age of the postal fleet is 30 years, Mr. Connolly said. Theyre spewing pollution and they are guzzling gas. There is no question we have to replace the fleet, and it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to take electric vehicle technology to the next level with the second- largest vehicle fleet in America.
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Brussels [Belgium], February 3 (ANI/Sputnik): NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday that he had discussed the situation around Ukraine with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the aftermath of the latter's visit to Moscow. The Hungarian prime minister paid a visit to Russia on Tuesday. The agenda included a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, among other things. "Good to speak again to Prime Minister Viktor Orban of #Hungary about the crisis created by #Russia's military buildup in & around #Ukraine. North America & Europe stand united in #NATO. All Allies agree on the importance of dialogue & strong deterrence and defence," Stoltenberg tweeted. According to Nina Bachkatov, a professor of political science from the University of Liege in Belgium, despite Orban's controversial status within the European Union, France and Germany appreciate him keeping communication with Russia open. "The fact that the Hungarian PM Viktor Orban visits president [Vladimir] Putin in Moscow is a purely Hungarian initiative, by an EU leader, also a member of NATO, who leads an intelligent game for the moment, but does not represent the EU and a fortiori is not in Moscow to negotiate anything on behalf of Europe," Bachkatov explained to Sputnik. The expert also noted a lack of unity within the European Union and NATO on how to address the situation, with countries Croatia or Slovenia remaining on the fence and Hungary operating on its own. "There is no miracle man to solve the complex issues at stake and only a policy of small steps will deliver results. Even the American press, so prompt until now to paint Russia as the arch-villain, starts to wonder what the Ukrainian army has done with the billions of dollars in deliveries and financial support. The press starts explaining the complex situation of Ukraine. The uncertainty increases in the present period, and nobody wants war," Bachkatov concluded. Tensions between Russia and Europe have escalated in the past few months over an escalation in the Ukrainian crisis, with the EU pledging severe economic sanctions against Russia in the event of an attack on Ukraine, an allegation firmly denied by Moscow. The punitive measures would target Russian projects in the gas sector, in particular, Brussels said. (ANI/Sputnik)
New Delhi:

Jamia Violence: Delhi Police Arrests 10 People With 'Criminal Background', No University Student Held

The Delhi Police arrested 10 people in connection with the Sunday violence in vicinity of Jamia Millia Islamia university on Tuesday. The clashes sparked massive protests across campuses in India with students demanding rollback of the Citizenship Amendment Act and probe into police brutality. The Delhi Police said that the 10 people, who have been arrested, have criminal background. News Nation has learnt that out of these 10 individuals, three are known as bad characters in the area. Read here

Citizenship Amendment Act Protest: US Urges India To 'Protect, Respect' Right Of Peaceful Assembly

Amid protests continuing over the Citizenship Amendment Act, United States on Monday urged India to protect and respect the right of peaceful assembly of the people and appealed protesters to refrain from violence. US State Department spokesperson said Washington is closely following the developments regarding the Citizenship Amendment Act in India. Read here

If British Can Have 650 MPs, Why Can't We Have 1000: Pranab Mukherjee Advocates For Delimitation

Delivering the second Atal Bihari Vajpayee memorial lecture on Monday, former President Pranab Mukherjee stressed upon the need to increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 1,000 through delimitation. Advocating the need to increase number of seats, Mukherjee said that last enhancement of seats in the lower house of Parliament took place in 1977 when the population of the country was 55-crore. Along with Lok Sabha, former President said, the number of seats in Rajya Sabha should be increased. Read here

Unnao Rape Case: Delhi Court Convicts Ex-BJP MLA Kuldeep Sengar, To Announce Quantum Of Punishment Today

A Delhi court convicted expelled BJP lawmaker Kuldeep Singh Sengar on Monday for raping a minor girl in Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh in 2017 saying the victim's testimony was 'truthful and unblemished' against a 'powerful person'. Senger was convicted for rape under the Indian Penal Code and the POCSO Act for offence by a public servant committing penetrative sexual assault against a child. Read here

India Slips To 112th Place On Gender Gap, In Bottom-5 On Health, Economic Fronts

India has slipped four places to rank 112th globally in terms of gender gap amid widening disparity in terms of women's health and survival and economic participation -- the two areas where the country is now ranked in the bottom-five, an annual survey showed on Tuesday. While Iceland remains the world's most gender-neutral country, India has moved down the ladder from its 108th position last year on the World Economic Forum's Gender Gap Report to rank below countries like China (106th), Sri Lanka (102nd), Nepal (101st), Brazil (92nd), Indonesia (85th) and Bangladesh (50th). Read here

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday hit out at the Narendra Modi government over the alleged police atrocities against students of Jamia Millia Islamia University. Speaking at an event in Nagpur, the Maharashtra Chief Minister compared the Jamia crackdown with Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919. India will be the country of largest youth. By 2022. It is youth bomb and don't try to explode that, Thackeray was quoted as saying. Nation is witnessing massive solidarity campus protests after the brutal police crackdown on students of Jamia on Sunday. It should be noted that the Shiv Sena had voted in favour of the Citizenship Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha and staged walkout in Rajya Sabha.

Earlier, on questions of CAA implementation, Maharashtra Minister and Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat had said, We will follow the policy of our party's central leadership. Thorat was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Many saw Shiv Sena walking out of the proceedings as middle path to placate its frenemy BJP.

After West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee voiced her opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Bill, her Punjab and Kerala counterparts have also expressed their apprehensions regarding the contentious legislation. Much before Parliaments nod to the bill, Mamata had made her stand clear about the bill. Addressing a gathering in Kharagpur, she had said, Dont be scared of CAB (Citizenship Amendment Bill). We are with you. As long as we are here nobody can impose anything on you.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Police arrested 10 people in connection with the Sunday violence in vicinity of Jamia Millia Islamia university on Tuesday. The clashes sparked massive protests across campuses in India with students demanding rollback of the Citizenship Amendment Act and probe into police brutality. The Delhi Police said that the 10 people, who have been arrested, have criminal background. News Nation has learnt that out of these 10 individuals, three are known as bad characters in the area. The police has also distinctively said that no student of the Jamia Millia Islamia university has been arrested. The cops said that the arrests were made after probing the CCTV footages of December 15. The cops further said that more arrests are likely to be made in coming days.

On Sunday, the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act turned violent, which soon engulfed the Jamia campus. Students were dragged out form the central library, thrashed. Though the police have claimed that several videos circulating on social media are unverifiable and some of them present a distorted version of the events that unfolded on Sunday, the Vice Chancellor of the university maintains that the cops stormed the campus and intimidated the students with brutality.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said high courts should be approached first on pleas alleging police atrocities on persons protesting against the amended Citizenship Act. The court also asked as to how buses were burnt during the protests. A bench headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde commenced hearing on pleas including that of Alumni Association Jamia Millia Islamia University. We dont want to spend time knowing facts, you should go to courts below first, said the bench.

Earlier, in a sharp observation on the Jamia crackdown in Delhi, the Supreme Court on Monday said, we are not against peaceful demonstrations, but we can't allow people to go on streets, indulge in rioting. Taking note of the violence, Chief Justice of India SA Bobde said that, we are not to be bullied like this. The observations came when a group of lawyers were asking the top court to take cognisance of violence on the Citizenship Act in Delhi.

CJI Bobde further said that, Just because they happen to be students, it doesn't mean they can take law and order in their hands, this has to be decided when things cool down. This is not the frame of mind when we can decide anything. Let the rioting stop.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
An illustration of the pain signaling pathway elicited by CGRP. CGRP activates the CGPR receptor on Schwann cells. The CGPR receptor traffics to endosomes, where sustained signaling results in the release of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide targets ion channel TRPA1 in Schwann cells, which excites the neuron and transmits pain signals related to migraine. Credit: Nature Communications, University of Florence & New York University

An international team of researchers has discovered that Schwann cellswhich are abundant in the peripheral nervous system and create a protective sheath around nerve fibersplay an essential role in migraine pain. Their study, conducted in mice and human Schwann cells and published in Nature Communications, illustrates how pain is signaled from within Schwann cells and finds several ways to block this signaling, providing potential targets for new migraine treatments.

Migraines affect more than 15 percent of adults, with women twice as likely as men to experience these intense headaches. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a small protein in the nervous system, is known to play an important role in migraine pain; in fact, a new class of drugs to prevent migraines use injections of monoclonal antibodies to target CGRP or its receptor.

"While CGRP has been implicated in migraine pain, how it causes pain has been an area of controversy in the scientific community," said Nigel Bunnett, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Molecular Pathobiology at NYU College of Dentistry. Bunnett led the study with Pierangelo Geppetti, MD, professor of clinical pharmacology at the University of Florence and director of the Headache Center of Careggi University Hospital.

"The success of CGRP monoclonal antibodies for migraine and the poor ability of antibodies to penetrate the blood brain barrier suggest that CGRP causes pain in the periphery rather than within the brain," added Bunnett, a researcher in the NYU Pain Research Center.

To explore the cellular mechanism of CGRP-evoked pain, Bunnett and his colleagues focused on Schwann cells, which are found outside the brain in the peripheral nervous system. The researchers studied mice in which the CGRP receptor, called CLR/RAMP1, was disabled in Schwann cells. They modified the CGRP receptor by deleting RAMP1, one of two important components of the receptor, from Schwann cells in the facial area of mice.

In normal mice, administering CGRP made the facial region very sensitive, a proxy for migraine pain. However, in mice lacking the CGRP receptor in Schwann cells, CGRP did not cause pain. In a second experiment, the researchers administered capsaicina chemical found in spicy chili peppers. Capsaicin activates an ion channel called TRPV1, which releases CGRP and usually causes pain. Again, capsaicin did not cause migraine-like pain in mice lacking the CGRP receptor in Schwann cells, providing further support for the idea that the CGRP receptor in Schwann cells plays a critical role in migraine pain.

Using human Schwann cells, the researchers then discovered what occurs within these cells to signal pain. They found that when CGRP binds to its receptor on a Schwann cell, the receptor moves into a compartment inside the cell called an endosome. Within endosomes, the CGRP receptor continues to signal for prolonged periods of time. That signaling generates nitric oxidea mediator of painwhich is then released from the Schwann cell and interacts with an ion channel called TRPA1 on an adjacent neuron. TRPA1 excites the neuron and transmits pain signals.

This new understanding of how pain originates inside Schwann cells gave the researchers two ideas for treating migraine pain: stopping the CGRP receptor from entering endosomes in the first place, or using nanoparticles to send drugs targeting the CGRP receptor in endosomes.

To keep CGRP receptors out of endosomes, the researchers inhibited clathrin and dynamin, two proteins that are important for substances entering cells. Inhibiting clathrin and dynamin reduced pain signaling, offering a promising target for novel migraine treatments.

The researchers also successfully blocked CGRP-evoked pain using nanoparticles in which they encapsulated a small molecule drug that binds to and blocks the CGRP receptor. While most drugs only reach the surface of cells, nanoparticles can be designed to help medicine reach the endosome inside a cell and to release the drug once it arrives at the intended location. In Schwann cells, the nanoparticles carried the drug into endosomes and blocked the CGRP receptor, which strongly inhibited migraine pain.

"While the role of CGRP in migraine pain is well known, our study is the first to directly connect Schwann cells to migraine pain. It offers potential new approaches to treating migraine based on our enhanced understanding of how pain is signaled from within endosomes," said Bunnett.

The researchers are working with several partners, including the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences of the National Institutes of Health, to continue studying the use and safety of nanoparticle drug delivery before these treatments can be tested in humans.

Explore further New hope in search for migraine cure

More information: Schwann cell endosome CGRP signals elicit periorbital mechanical allodynia in mice, Nature Communications (2022). Journal information: Nature Communications Schwann cell endosome CGRP signals elicit periorbital mechanical allodynia in mice,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28204-z
Dear Sen. Mitch McConnell,

Youve got it twisted  again.

In a Jan. 16 op-ed in The Courier Journal, you characterized the current fight for restoration of the Voting Rights Act as a Big Lie about Jim Crow 2.0. If thats the case, we can only surmise that you are calling into question the words of the late former President Ronald Reagan who signed in 1982 renewal of the Voting Rights Act and described it as the crowning jewel of American liberties. The standard bearer for what used to be the Republican Party believed in the value the Voting Rights Act brought to America.

Read McConnell's op-ed here: Mitch McConnell: Dont believe the Democrats Big Lie about 'Jim Crow 2.0'| Opinion

Senator, you appeared to hold those same values in 1992 and in 2006 (when you voted to reauthorize the Voting Rights Act where the vote for reauthorization in the U.S. Senate was 98-0, with all Republicans voting for reauthorization).

So, what has changed since then?

Was your former commitment to ensuring voting rights a false positive  or has that commitment given way to your unrelenting quest for more power?

In a statement issued to The Courier Journal, you said, I am proud of my record on race relations and civil rights, and I have worked throughout my career to help close the gap so every Kentuckian can enjoy the promise of Americas founding principles.

The NAACP Civil Rights Legislative Report Card which has been around since 1914 would say otherwise.

The report card tracks how congressional representatives have voted over the course of a year on bread-and-butter civil rights issues and priorities important to the NAACP.

This is not the report card of a civil rights champion. FACT

Senator, you say the 2020 election had the highest turnout in more than 100 years, that 94 percent said the process was easy and that Black voter turnout outpaces white turnout. Proof, you claim, that democracy is working and bolsters your Big Lie accusation.

Story continues

This is where your logic gets twisted.

The difference in non-Hispanic white voter turnout versus non-Hispanic Black turnout in 2020 was seven percentage points while in 2016, the difference was 4.8 percentage points, a decline. FACT.

Why, in 2021, did 19 states enact 34 laws restricting access to voting? Why were 440 bills with provisions to restrict voting access introduced in 49 states? And why have 13 bills to limit and restrict access to the vote been filed in 2022? FACT.

Opinion: History shows Mitch McConnell is not the civil rights champion he claims to be

Senator, you cite changes in Kentucky voting laws as great progressive moves. But the truth is the changes fell far short of what our governor advocated for (and had in our 2020 primary). FACT.

The proliferation of laws restricting voter access only occurred after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act in 2013. FACT.

Senator, the reality is your twisted logic doesnt hold up against objective facts. FACT.

The reality is that your Big Lie argument is just that  a Big Lie. FACT.

In 1992, the NAACP gave you an award in appreciation of your vote for the reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act. That award was given for a vote that we thought reflected your integrity and moral and ethical values.

We can only hope that you rediscover those values rather than go down as the enabler and in the eyes of some the architect of Jim Crow 2.0.

Senator, this is a time for real statesmanship, not spin and twisted rhetoric. Will you stand up and lead?

Louisville Branch NAACP

Interested in submitting an op-ed or guest column?

Read tips here: How to submit a guest opinion column or op-ed to The Courier Journal

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: NAACP to Mitch McConnell: 'You've got it twisted' | Opinion
The federal government has established a series of biosecurity zones across remote communities in the Northern Territory to combat the spread of COVID-19.

Virus cases have been recorded across the region, with lock-in provisions already in place in some areas.

Among the centres with high or growing case numbers are Milikapiti, Milingimbi, Palumpa, Ampilatwatja, Elcho Island, including Galiwin'ku, Wessel Islands, including Martjanba and Lajamanu.

The federal government has established a series of biosecurity zones across remote communities in the Northern Territory to combat the spread of COVID-19 (pictured, testing in Katherine in November)

The new measures prevent anyone from entering or leaving the designated zones and were based on advice from Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly, Health Minister Greg Hunt said.

'These measures will help to contain the current outbreak by restricting entry into, and exit from, these communities,' Mr Hunt said.

'This will assist in preventing the spread of the disease, including to neighbouring remote communities in the Northern Territory.'

The minister said the introduction of the zones had the support of key Indigenous groups including the Central Land Council, the Northern Land Council, the Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance of the Northern Territory and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.

Central Land Council Chief Executive Les Turner said the measures would help hospitals cope, the NT government to get on top of the under-reporting of positive cases and buy time to lift vaccination rates.

'We called for this circuit breaker, among other measures, to slow down the out-of-control spread of the virus in our remote communities,' he said.

Virus cases have been recorded across the region, with lock-in provisions already in place in some areas (pictured, testing in Katherine in November)

But Mr Turner also urged the Australian Defence Force be used to help the NT government staff roadblocks to enforce the biosecurity restrictions and assist with evacuations.

'This must not become another missed opportunity to call on the army to help manage the pandemic,' he said.

'Governments, Aboriginal organisations and communities must now work together to save lives.'

Northern Land Council Chairman Samuel Bush-Blanasi said his organisation had been taking calls for weeks from traditional owners to establish restricted zones.

'They want to stop people coming in from outside. These Biosecurity Zones or bubbles will help slow the spread of COVID out bush and give us more time to get more people their second and third jabs,' he said.

The NT reported 1133 new coronavirus infections on Wednesday along with a third death, that of a woman in her 50s from the Mutitjulu community in central Australia.

Of the 129 people in hospital with the virus, a significant majority are Indigenous Australians.
The United States has information indicating that Russia has developed a plan to stage a false Ukrainian military attack on Russian territory and leverage it as a pretext for an attack against Ukraine, according to a senior Biden administration official.

U.S. intelligence officials say fabricating a video of such an attack is one of several options the Kremlin is formulating to give it an excuse to invade Ukraine, the official said.

"The video will be released to underscore a threat to Russia's security and to underpin military operations," said the official, who requested anonymity.

"This video, if released, could provide Putin the spark he needs to initiate and justify military operations against Ukraine," the official added.

The official said the Biden administration is disclosing specifics about Russia's alleged plans to "dissuade" Russia from carrying out such plans.

In an interview Thursday with MSNBC, U.S. deputy national security adviser Jonathan Finer said, "We don't know definitively that this is the route they are going to take, but we know that this is an option under consideration."

NATO welcomes more US troops

The Biden administration disclosed the intelligence after NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday welcomed U.S. plans to deploy more troops to Europe and said NATO is considering sending additional battle groups to the southeastern part of its alliance amid tensions along the Russia-Ukraine border.

The U.S. on Wednesday announced plans to dispatching 2,000 more troops to Europe, most of them to Poland, and move 1,000 troops from Germany to Romania to bolster NATO's eastern flank countries.

The additional U.S. troops, part of the Army's 82nd Airborne Division, are "not going to fight in Ukraine" in the event of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby told reporters. Rather, he said, the temporary deployment, which is separate from the 8,500 U.S. troops placed on heightened alert last week for possible dispatch to Europe, is intended as an "unmistakable signal that we stand with NATO."

Stoltenberg told reporters that while NATO is preparing for the possibility that Russia may take military action, NATO remains ready to engage in "meaningful dialogue" and find a diplomatic resolution to the crisis.

"NATO continues to call on Russia to de-escalate. Any further Russian aggression would have severe consequences and carry a heavy price," he said.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters Thursday that the U.S. deployment is heightening tensions in the region.

The United States and other Western allies have been preparing economic sanctions to level against Russia in hopes of persuading Russian President Vladimir Putin to pull back the more than 100,000 troops Russia has near the border with Ukraine. Russia has denied it plans to invade.

Stoltenberg said Thursday there has been a "significant movement of Russian military forces into Belarus," Ukraine's northern neighbor, where they are taking part in joint military drills that began Thursday instead of later this month as originally planned.

"This is the biggest Russian deployment there since the Cold War," Stoltenberg said, referring to what he said were 30,000 troops, fighter jets and missile systems.

Russia has not disclosed how many troops or the amount of military hardware it has in Belarus.

Thursday's exercises, which Stoltenberg said would continue until February 20, involved live fire, according to images released by the Belarusian defense minister. They also showed fighter jets in the sky and tanks firing and maneuvering.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu witnessed the exercises after arriving in Minsk Thursday, and he also met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

During the meeting, Lukashenko said, "We are forced to strengthen our border with Ukraine." He noted the joint drills, originally scheduled for February 10-20, were able to start early after Russian, Belarusian and other allied troops were deployed last month to quell violence in Kazakhstan and accomplished their mission "very quickly."

Russia has demanded NATO pull back troops and weapons deployed in eastern European member countries, and to make clear that Ukraine cannot join the 30-member military alliance.

NATO and Ukraine have rejected those demands, saying countries are free to pick their allies.

But Stoltenberg said Thursday that NATO is ready to talk to Russia about relations between the two sides, and about risk reduction, increased transparency and arms control.

EU plan response, show support for Ukraine

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Thursday the 27-nation bloc is planning a response to letters Russia sent earlier this week to several EU members about its demand for security guarantees.

During a visit to Helsinki, von der Leyen told reporters, "We are united in the European Union and therefore it is clear that the response will mirror, will reflect that unity."

In Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Thursday he welcomed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's offer to mediate the crisis and to host peace negotiations. Zelenskiy's comments came after the two leaders signed a free trade deal and other agreements while meeting in Kyiv.

Erdogan previously suggested Turkey, a NATO member that also has good relations with Russia, could act as a mediator.

"I would like to thank President Erdogan for his initiative to become a mediator between Ukraine and Russia on the way to ending the war," Zelenskiy said.



Erdogan's visit to Ukraine is the latest in a series of visits to Kyiv by world leaders and diplomats to show support for Ukraine and try to advance a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Talks Wednesday between Putin and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson did not provide any breakthroughs. French President Emmanuel Macron was expected to have a phone conversation with Putin later Thursday.

Macron and U.S. President Joe Biden discussed the Russia-Ukraine situation in a call Wednesday, with the White House saying the two leaders reviewed diplomatic efforts and "preparations to impose swift and severe economic costs on Russia should it further invade Ukraine."

The Norwegian Rights Council also warned Thursday about the effects on those living in eastern Ukraine if the crisis escalates.

After years of violence in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, where Ukrainian forces have been battling Russia-backed separatists, the aid organization said the humanitarian needs are already high with nearly 3 million people relying on aid.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba addressed the conflict in a broader context at a news conference Wednesday, saying, "I'm confident that Russia's war on Ukraine and wider Europe will ultimately end when two fundamental issues are resolved. First, the West should turn from reactive to proactive strategies when dealing with Russia."

"Ambiguity on Ukraine's role as an indivisible part of the West has to be put to an end, he added. The Ukrainian people chose this course and defended it at a high price.

"We are historically, politically and culturally a part of the West," Kuleba said. "It is time to end harmful ambiguity which serves as a temptation for the Kremlin to continue its attempts to undermine Ukraine or reverse its course against the will of the Ukrainian people."

Some information for this report came from Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
A Laois farmer has been appointed to a key position in development of Irish agriculture.

Donald Scully has been appointed to the Teagasc Authority for a five-year term by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue.

Donald Scully is a member of the ICMSA executive committee and is a dairy farmer from Cherryhill House, Ballyhyland, Portlaoise.

At the Teagasc board meeting on Wednesday, 2 February, the Chairman of Teagasc, Liam Herlihy welcomed Donald Scully to the Authority and congratulated him on his appointment.

I look forward to working closely with Donald on the Teagasc authority. He brings great experience and knowledge of farming and agriculture to the authority, both personally and through the network of the ICMSA, he said.

Donald Scully attended Rockwell Agricultural College. The home farm has been in the Scully family across three generations and Donald took over developing the farm when his father retired in 1994. He has a herd of spring calving high EBI pedigree Friesian Holsteins run on the home farm and on rented land.

Tommy Cooke has stepped down from the Teagasc Authority having completed two five year terms. Chairman of Teagasc, Liam Herlihy thanked Tommy for his contributions to the Authoritys meetings over the last ten years.

Tommy has made a massive contribution to Teagasc through his work on the organisations Authority. I want to thank him for his commitment to Teagasc over many years, he said.
Welcome to State of Mind, a new section from Slate and Arizona State University dedicated to exploring mental health. Follow us on Twitter.

Most people dont hesitate to tell their boss they need time off for a medical appointment, but when that appointment is for therapy, they often get a lot more reluctant. And understandably so. Frustratingly, even as therapy is becoming more and more openly embraced in American culture, mental health issues can still carry a stigma at work, and people are often unsure how much they need to share and how much would be TMI. Plus, because therapy is often weekly, theres added pressure to say more than just I have a doctors appointment.

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But getting the time you need to get yourself to a therapist, whether virtually or in person, isnt impossible. Heres some advice on how to go about it.

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How do I ask for time off to go to therapy?

The same way youd ask for the time for any other recurring medical appointment. You dont need to explain that its for therapy, just like you wouldnt need to specify that an ongoing medical appointment was for Crohns or for chemo. Say something like this: I have a recurring weekly medical appointment for the next few months (or the foreseeable future, or whatever seems realistic). Ive scheduled it for as late in the day as I can, but Ill need to leave at 4 each Tuesday to make it there. Would it work for me to come in early on Tuesdays so it doesnt interfere with my work?

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Your boss may ask whats going on. She could just be nosy, but she might also be asking out of genuine concern. In any case, youre not obligated to share details if you dont want to. You simply can say, Ill be OKits just something I need to get taken care of.

If I have a standing weekly appointment, wont everyone assume its for therapy?



Eh, maybe. There are a bunch of other possibilitiesphysical therapy, allergy shots, monitoring of a chronic condition, etc. But even if people do assume its therapy, theres no shame in that! Theyre not entitled to knowjust like theyre not entitled to know the details of other medical issuesbut it shouldnt be a big deal if people assume it.

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What if Id rather disclose it? Is there anything wrong with sharing with my boss or co-workers that Im in therapy?

Thats up to you! Sometimes it can be easier to be openand frankly, if youre in a senior role, there can be benefits to showing other staff members that the company supports people in taking care of their mental health.

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But you need to know your own workplace, manager, and colleagues. People can be weird about mental health in a way theyre not about physical health. Theres also a risk that your manager will consider therapy less important than other medical needs and might be less accommodating of your appointments, especially as time goes on (for example, asking if you really have to leave early today, since a deadline is looming, when she wouldnt do that if your appointment were with, say, a gastroenterologist).

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Is there any legal protection for me if I let my boss know Im in therapy and then suffer discrimination as a result?

The Americans With Disabilities Act makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against youincluding firing you or denying you professional advancementsimply because you have a mental health condition. To decide you were somehow unfit for your job because of your mental health, your employer would need to have objective evidence that youre unable to perform the essential functions of your position, even with reasonable accommodations (more on those below).

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Keep in mind, though, that not everyone is covered under the ADA. The law only covers employers with 15 or more employees, and your condition needs to substantially limit one or more major life activities, which include interacting with others, communicating, eating, sleeping, caring for yourself, and regulating your thoughts. (While the ADA doesnt list specific conditions that it covers, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other common mental health disorders often do fall under its protection.) The ADA also protects you if you are perceived as having such an impairment, whether or not you actually do.

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Also, some states have laws that provide additional protections.

What if my boss resists giving me time off for therapy appointments?

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If your condition is protected by the ADA, the law requires your employer to work with you to find reasonable accommodations to help you do your job. That can include things like altering your work schedule or providing adaptive technology. In the case of therapy, this most commonly would mean allowing you to schedule work around your therapy appointments.

If your boss pushes back on your request, talk with your HR department. Explain that you need time off for a standing medical appointment and that your boss wasnt receptive, and ask how to proceed. HR should be trained in disability law in a way that individual managers often arent and should let you know what you should do. If you ask for a formal accommodation under the ADA, they might ask you to put the request in writing or to submit a letter from your doctor to document that you have a health condition that requires an accommodation. You and your doctor should not need to disclose your specific diagnosis in doing this.

State of Mind is a partnership of Slate and Arizona State University that offers a practical look at our mental health systemand how to make it better.
Romania's Foreign Minister Bogdan Aurescu said on Thursday that the current security crisis "is about the security of the Euro-Atlantic area" as a whole, pointing out that NATO member states must continue their coordination on concrete measures so as to achieve de-escalation, Agerpres reports.

"The current security crisis is not just about Ukraine's security, it's not just about the region's security, it's not just about Europe's security, it's about the security of the Euro-Atlantic area as a whole, and the Black Sea is an integral part of that space, just as Black Sea security is an integral part of transatlantic security. What happens in the Black Sea does not stay in the Black Sea. The Russian Federation continues to build up troops in the vicinity of Ukraine, in the Black Sea region, which are worrying developments needing our permanent attention, and (...) today we have once again had the opportunity to continue to coordinate on concrete steps we need to take together so as to achieve de-escalation, to achieve a resumption of dialogue," Aurescu told a joint news conference with visiting French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian.Aurescu hosted a round of consultations in a hybrid format of the Bucharest Format 9 (B9) ministers of foreign affairs and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian. The meeting was also attended by Ukraine's foreign minister.
The mystery of how a flesh-eating ulcer infected hundreds of people across Australia in recent years has been solved, scientists say.

Fresh research has found that common local animals ringtail and brushtail possums are the key carriers of the disease, according to The Age.

Mosquitos are also likely to carry Mycobacterium ulcerans, the bacteria that causes the painful ulcer, from marsupials to humans.

Once the bacteria gets under the skin, it can grow and produce a toxin that melts skin cells and fat - with sufferers experiencing swelling that quickly produces a pus-filled ulcer that can become so severe surgery is needed.

Recent research has discovered a common Australian animal is the key carrier of the disease - brushtail and ringtail possums (pictured)

Mosquitos can also transfer the bacteria responsible for the lesions from marsupials to humans

Jett, a youngster from Queensland, was in hospital for three months after contracting the ulcer in 2018 - he almost had his leg amputated was forced to learn how to walk again (pictured)

The study also uncovered risk factors for developing the unwanted ulcer: living in a house under powerlines and homes being frequently visited by infected possums.

Wearing insect repellent seems to reduce the chances of developing the lesions.

Cases of the Buruli ulcer grew quickly in 2018, prompting Victoria's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to express concern about the outbreak.

Jett, a young boy from Queensland, was in hospital for three months after contracting the ulcer.

He almost had his leg amputated and was forced to learn how to walk again, his mother Arna-Leigh told A Current Affair.

At the time, Victoria's acting chief health officer Dr Brett Sutton said although it was unknown how the bacteria was transmitted, there was a popular theory.

'It may be that mosquitoes are biting possums and then biting people,' Dr Sutton said.

'It could also be possum faeces being contaminated and people are getting it into their skin through cuts or scratches.'

The Victorian government donated $2million for research on the ulcer four years ago amid fears of a mass outbreak.

Cases of Mycobacterium ulcerans (pictured) grew quickly in 2018, prompting fears of a mass outbreak in Victoria

The lesion may occur anywhere on the body but is most common on exposed areas of the limbs, commonly on joints (pictured)

The first sign of the Buruli ulcer is usually a painless, non-tender nodule or papule, often thought to be an insect bite

The first sign of the Buruli ulcer is usually a painless, non-tender nodule or papule, often thought to be an insect bite, the Victoria Health website states.

The lesion may occur anywhere on the body but is most common on exposed areas of the limbs, commonly on joints.

In one to two months, the nodule may erode, forming a characteristic ulcer with undermined edges.

A simple swab test can help detect whether or not a person has the disease.
New Delhi:

UPSC has released the list of selected candidates for the Air Safety Officer post. All candidates who appeared for the written exam and interview need to visit the official website of Union Public Service Commission, i.e. upsc.gov.in to check the list. It is to note that a total of 16 vacant positions of Air Safety Officer in the Office of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation are going to be filled through this recruitment drive.

According to the official notification, the list of selected candidates are recommended for appointment to the post of Air Safety Officer in Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Civil Aviation for the Advertisement number 21/2018, Item No. 01, Vacancy Number 18112101624, dated November 24, 2018.

In order to check the list of selected candidates for the post of Air Safety Officer, candidates need to follow the below mentioned steps:

First, candidates need to visit the official website of UPSC, upsc.gov.in

Navigate, and click on the Air Safety Officer List of Selected Candidates link that is available at the homepage

A new page will open

Click on the List of selected candidates list

The list will open in the PDF format
A nurse tending to a COVID-19 patient, is seen through a small window in an intensive care unit ,at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, Calif., on Dec. 21, 2020. Many American hospitals are looking broad for health care workers, saying they're facing a dire shortage of nurses amid the slogging pandemic. It could be just in time as there's an unusually high number of green cards available this year for foreign professionals seeking to move to the United States. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File

With American hospitals facing a dire shortage of nurses amid a slogging pandemic, many are looking abroad for health care workers.

And it could be just in time.

There's an unusually high number of green cards available this year for foreign professionals, including nurses, who want to move to the United Statestwice as many as just a few years ago. That's because U.S. consulates shut down during the coronavirus pandemic weren't issuing visas to relatives of American citizens, and, by law, these unused slots now get transferred to eligible workers.

Amy L. Erlbacher-Anderson, an immigration attorney in Omaha, Nebraska, said she has seen more demand for foreign nurses in two years than the rest of her 18-year career. And this year, she said, it's more likely they'll get approved to come, so long as U.S. consular offices can process all the applications.

"We have double the number of visas we've had available for decades," she said. "That is kind of temporarily creating a very open situation."

U.S. hospitals are struggling with a shortage of nurses that worsened as pandemic burnout led many to retire or leave their jobs. Meanwhile, coronavirus cases continue to rise and fall, placing tremendous pressure on the health care system. In California alone, there's an estimated gap of 40,000 nurses, or 14% of the workforce, according to a recent report by the University of California, San Francisco.

Hospitals are filling the gap by hiring traveling nurses, but that can be expensive. And hospital administrators say not enough nurses are graduating from U.S. schools each year to meet the demand.

A nurse checks on IV fluids while talking to a COVID-19 patient at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in Los Angeles, Dec. 13, 2021. Many American hospitals are looking broad for health care workers, saying they're facing a dire shortage of nurses amid the slogging pandemic. It could be just in time as there's an unusually high number of green cards available this year for foreign professionals seeking to move to the United States. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File

Some hospitals have long brought nurses from the Philippines, Jamaica and other English-speaking countries, and more are now following suit. And both longtime recruiters and newcomers are trying to take advantage of the green card windfall before the fiscal year ends in September.

The U.S. typically offers at least 140,000 green cards each year to people moving to the country permanently for certain professional jobs, including nursing. Most are issued to people who are already living in the United States on temporary visas, though some go to workers overseas. This year, 280,000 of these green cards are available, and recruiters hope some of the extras can be snapped up by nurses seeking to work in pandemic-weary hospitals in the United States.

The Biden administration, which has made moves to reverse Trump-era policies restricting legal immigration, has taken some steps to try to help foreign health care workers so they can assist with the pandemic. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said it would speed the renewal of work permits for health care workers, which could help keep some foreign citizens already in the United States on the job. The State Department told consulates last year to prioritize applications for workers at facilities that are responding to the pandemic, an agency official said.

Faith Akinmade, a 22-year-old nurse from Nigeria, is among those hoping for a quick solution. After completing college in the U.S., Akinmade has been working as an ICU nurse for University of Louisville Hospital in Kentucky. But her work permit is set to expire in March. She said she needs it renewed, or her green card approved, to stay on the job.

"At this point and time, I just feel like I have faith that at the end of March something is going to show up to continue to work," Akinmade said. She said the issue affects many of her international colleagues as well as domestic ones, who may be pressed to take on shifts for colleagues if their immigration paperwork doesn't come through.

Dr. Roxie Wells, president of Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital in Raeford, North Carolina, said she started trying to bring over foreign nurses before the pandemic, but it wasn't until last year that these recruits started getting consular interviews in larger numbers. So far, about 150 were approved to come work, but Wells said they're still waiting on another 75.

"Obviously it has become more necessary during the pandemic," she said. "The 150, if we didn't have them, we would be in a precarious situation."

A registered nurse works on a computer while assisting a COVID-19 patient in Los Angeles. Many American hospitals are looking broad for health care workers, saying they're facing a dire shortage of nurses amid the slogging pandemic. It could be just in time as there's an unusually high number of green cards available this year for foreign professionals seeking to move to the United States. The reason is U.S. consulates were closed during the coronavirus pandemic, leaving tens of thousands of unused visa slots for eligible workers. The Biden administration has taken some steps to try to help foreign health care workers get here more quickly. But some hospitals say they're still waiting on consular interviews to bring in nurses. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File

The surge in the omicron variant in the United States has made the strained staffing situation even more apparent in hospitals as health care workers, like so many others, have been sickened by the highly contagious virus and sidelined from work at a time when more patients are coming in.

Sinead Carbery, president of Nurse Staffing Solutions for AMN Healthcare, said the demand for international nurses has risen between 300% and 400% since the pandemic began. The number of nurses that can be brought into the United States even with the additional green cards won't be enough to meet demand, and many more recruiters are now seeking to hire nurses overseas because there are immigrant visas available, she said.

"This is a window of opportunity," she said. "Because everything is flowing so well, there's a lot of competition for that talent."

National Nurses United, a union representing 175,000 registered nurses, said more scrutiny should be given to international recruitment to ensure foreign nurses aren't brought in and subjected to unsafe working conditions. The union contends hospitals drove away U.S. nurses by keeping staffing levels so lowand this was well before concerns arose about worker safety and protections during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Michelle Mahon, the union's assistant director of nursing practice, said many foreign nurses sign yearslong contracts with employers, which can make it hard for them to speak up about labor or patient safety concerns. She said hospitals that saw nurses quit during the pandemic are turning to an overseas workforce to replace them.

"This kind of dynamic is particularly attractive right now to employers who have not made any of the changes necessary to ensure patient and nursing safety during this COVID-19 pandemic," Mahon said. "Instead of them addressing the actual problem, they want to go and pivot to this other really fake solution."

Hospital administrators, however, contend there simply aren't enough U.S.-trained nurses to go around. Patty Jeffrey, president of the American Association of International Healthcare Recruitment, said the United States should expand nursing education programs to train more nurses domestically, as well as let more nurses come in from overseas. But she acknowledged bringing in a much larger number of nurses would require legislation.

Protective masks hang in a decontamination unit at the Battelle N95 decontamination site during the coronavirus pandemic in Somerville, Mass. Before the coronavirus struck, N95 masks were single use. A nurse could use a dozen a day. Many American hospitals are looking broad for health care workers, saying they're facing a dire shortage of nurses amid the slogging pandemic. It could be just in time as there's an unusually high number of green cards available this year for foreign professionals seeking to move to the United States. The reason is U.S. consulates were closed during the coronavirus pandemic, leaving tens of thousands of unused visa slots for eligible workers. Credit: AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File

"The calls are every day ringing off the hook: We need 100, we need 200, we need all these nurses," Jeffrey said.

Jorge Almeida Neri, a 26-year-old nurse from Portugal, arrived in the United States late last year, though he began the process before the pandemic. He said a required international nursing exam was delayed due to the virus and it took four months to get a consular interview, though other international nurses he's met waited much longer. He interviewed for his current job at a Virginia hospital, which he got through a staffing agency, about a year ago.

"After getting everything certified, the immigration process started, and I was like, 'Oh, this is going to be quick.' I was wrong," he said.

Almeida Neri said many Portuguese nurses seek work overseas since wages are low, though many go elsewhere in Europe, which doesn't take as long as the United States.

Despite the demand, there's no guarantee hospitals will in fact snap up more visas. Greg Siskind, an immigration attorney, said U.S. consular offices aren't required to issue visas solely because they're available, and are hampered by limits on remote work and video interviews. He said most employment-based green cards tend to go to professionals already in the United States, not overseas, though more could be done to speed these up, too.

"Under their current policies, if they don't make any changes, it is going to be hard," he said of the likelihood the U.S. government will issue all the available visas, "but there's a lot of things they could do."

___

This version has been updated to correct the timing of Jorge Almeida Neri's arrival in the U.S.

Explore further Employment of nurses decreased early in COVID-19 pandemic

 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
In an unusual move, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urged Pfizer and BioNTech to apply for authorization of the first COVID-19 vaccine for children under the age of five.

The drug companies said this week that they began sending data for an emergency use authorization before it is settled whether the children will need two or three shots.

The companies said they are providing the information at the request of the FDA in order to address an urgent public health need in the age group. The young children, about 19 million in the U.S., are the only age group not yet able to get the shots.

"Having a safe and effective vaccine available for children in this age group is a priority," acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock said. She said the agency asked for the application because of the recent increase in cases caused by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus. And a decision is expected as soon as this month.

One-tenth of adults shot

Pfizer said it plans to give children as young as 6 months shots that contain one-tenth of the dose, or amount, given to adults. The open question is how many shots those children will need.

In early testing, two of the extra-low doses appear to be strong enough for babies but not for somewhat older children. Pfizer now is testing a third shot. The results from those tests are expected in late March.

The FDA said an outside committee of independent experts will meet in mid-February to review the information from Pfizer. The agency did not say how long it will wait for complete information. If the agency approves the vaccine, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also needs to approve how the vaccinations will be given.

John Grabenstein used to work on vaccines at Merck. He told Reuters, "I just can't believe that they would authorize getting started without knowing what the third dose would do." But John Moore, a professor at Weill Cornell Medical College, called the plan "a creative solution to a real problem. He noted that the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is known to be safe.

Parents want to return to work

The administration of President Joe Biden has been trying to speed up the approval of COVID-19 shots for children. Officials see vaccinations as important for opening schools and daycare centers and permitting parents to return to work.

The arrival of a vaccine for younger children could help hard-pressed parents as Omicron is sending record numbers of children to the hospital. Many have been pushing for an expansion of the shots to younger children.

Dr. Dyan Hes is a pediatrician, a medical doctor for children, in New York City. He said for many parents, "that's the first thing they ask when they walk through the door: 'When do you think the shot is going to come out?'"

Dr. Sean O'Leary of the University of Colorado is on the American Academy of Pediatrics infectious disease committee. He said, "What we're seeing right now is still a lot of hospitalizations and unfortunately some deaths in this age group."

He added that if the FDA approves vaccinations for the younger children, "that's going to be really important because all of those hospitalizations and deaths essentially are preventable."

Im Jill Robbins.

Lauran Neergaard and Matthew Perrone reported on this story for the Associated Press and Michael Erman reported on it for Reuters. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English.

___________________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

apply  v. to ask formally for something (such as a job, admission to a school, a loan, etc.) usually in writing

authorize  v. to give legal or official approval to or for (something)

priority  n. something that is more important than other things and that needs to be done or dealt with first

dose  n. the amount of a medicine, drug, or vitamin that is taken at one time

essential  adj. extremely important and necessary

What do you think of giving the COVID-19 vaccine to children under five years old? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.
New Delhi:

UP Board Exam 2020 admit cards are expected to be released soon. According to reports, schools that are affiliated to UP Board will receive the Class 10 and Class 12 Board exam 2020 admit cards by January 31. In addition, reports have stated that UP Board is also going to release the exam attendance format along-with the list of examinees to appear at respective exam centers. The DIOS Office in every district of UP will receive these circulars by January 25.

Meanwhile, the UP Board secretary has said that the class 10 and class 12 board exam admit cards will be distributed by the schools to students in the 1st week of February 2020. Other than this, the board has adopted high-end technology and installed CCTVs, Routers, Broadband and Voice Recorders to monitor the exam centers. This is done to stop cheating in the examinations.

In addition, there will be high-end control room at the Education Directorate, Lucknow for monitoring all the exam centers from one place. Officials from respective departments will get special training in regard to this technology.
Stars and Stripes is making stories on the coronavirus pandemic available free of charge. See more stories here. Sign up for our daily coronavirus newsletter here. Please support our journalism with a subscription.

TOKYO  The sixth wave of COVID-19 in Japan continued unabated Thursday, setting a new national record and holding fast in the capital city.

Tokyo confirmed another 20,679 people tested positive for the coronavirus Thursday, according to public broadcaster NHK. The city posted its one-day record high, 21,576, on Wednesday.

As of Wednesday, 3,557 people were hospitalized with the respiratory disease in Tokyo, according to the metropolitan government, filling 51.4% of beds available for them. Another 28 people were suffering severe symptoms.

Japan reported 94,771 new cases Wednesday, a new one-day high, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center. The center also corrected a higher figure that it had posted for Tuesday to 80,222 cases across Japan, still the previous one-day high.

By comparison, U.S. military bases continued to report few new infections. U.S. Forces Japan said in a daily update Thursday that 120 people tested positive at 13 installations in the past 24 hours. One person is hospitalized. None of the cases are serious.

Yokosuka Naval Base, the 7th Fleets homeport south of Tokyo, reported 28 new cases, according to the update. The base last reported 678 active cases a week ago and new case numbers have fallen to relatively few since then.

The base on Thursday lifted its ban on drinking in surrounding communities, base spokesman Randall Baucom told Stars and Stripes by phone.

In increased COVID-precaution, quasi-state of emergency declared areas, which is now the Yokosuka area here locally, all personnel who are vaccinated are allowed to visit nightclubs and bars from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Baucom said. Unvaccinated personnel cannot visit these locations.

Kanagawa prefecture, where the naval base is located, along with Tokyo and two neighboring prefectures are under a modified public health emergency until Feb. 13.

Shore patrol probably wont check vaccination cards outside the base, Baucom said, but bars and restaurants may require proof-of-vaccination for entry.
A union member raises a sign outside a Kroger's King Soopers store during a protest as workers go on strike in Denver, on Jan. 12, 2022. (Kevin Mohatt/Reuters)

Krogers King Soopers Union Workers Approve New Contract

Workers at nearly 80 King Soopers, owned by Kroger Co, approved a new three-year contract, the Colorado-based chain said on Tuesday, ending a stalemate that had caused a 10-day strike at the start of the year.

King Soopers will invest $170 million in wage increases through the life of the agreement, with additional health-care investments.

The union had planned to strike from Jan. 12 until early February for better wages and working conditions but called it off on Jan. 21 after reaching a tentative deal.

Union President Kim Cordova said the deal followed several days of negotiations and the possibility of a sympathy strike by stores in California and Seattle.

A document seen by Reuters showed per-hour raises ranged between $1.23 and $5.99 in the first year. The union said over 95 percent of the workers will get increases of $2 or more in the first year, with around 250 pharmacy technicians eligible for the highest bump.

The union had initially sought a raise of at least $6 in the first year of the contract for all workers, while King Soopers had proposed increases of up to $4.50 based on job classification and tenure.

Contract negotiations always involve a give and take from both sides  you will never have a situation where one side walks away with everything they want, said Helen Rella, an employment attorney at Wilk Auslander.

The deal was accepted by 99 percent of workers in some locations, Cordova said, adding the union fixed a lot of things that needed to be fixed.

But not everyone was happy with the contract.

The raise was definitely disappointing. My biggest gripe about the contract, though, is honestly the lack of decent wages for entry-level employees, said a worker who requested anonymity.

Another worker said he was let down as the union did not meet its original goal of getting a raise of $6 per hour in the first year.

By Praveen Paramasivam
London:

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to give a pep talk Monday to a new group of Conservative Party lawmakers as he begins his push to secure parliamentary approval for his Brexit deal. Johnson will welcome 109 newly elected colleagues, many of them coming from parts of the country that were once strongholds of the opposition Labour Party.

Buoyed by the party's decisive win in last week's election, Johnson will move fast to deliver on his campaign mantra to "get Brexit done." That means ensuring a Brexit withdrawal agreement bill is passed in time for the UK to complete its historic departure from the European Union by the current deadline of January 31.

Johnson has promised to bring the bill to the House of Commons before Christmas. It is expected to receive strong support in Parliament, where Johnson's Conservatives hold a strong majority. The party won 365 of the 650 seats in the House of Commons in Thursday's landslide election.

If the bill passes and Britain leaves the EU on time, the country will enter a transition period when EU rules and regulations would still apply in the country and people and goods would still be able to pass freely between the U.K. and the remaining EU members. Negotiators for the British government and the EU would start trade talks with an eye toward reaching a comprehensive post-Brexit agreement.

Queen Elizabeth II will formally open Parliament on Thursday with a speech outlining the government's legislative program. The pomp and ceremony surrounding the queen's speech will be less lavish than usual because she last formally opened Parliament just two months ago for what turned out to be a session that was cut short by a vote for an early election.

New lawmakers took to Twitter to chronicle their first day at work. The new representative for Bury in northwest England, Christian Wakeford, tweeted: "Reality with a bump, 5:33 train down to #Westminster not a morning person at all but couldn't be happier to be on this train." Newcastle-under-Lyme lawmaker Aaron Bell shared an image of himself smiling in front of the Palace of Westminster: Good morning Newcastle.

A new dawn has broken, has it not?? There was no such giddiness on the Labour side as the party prepares for what is likely to be a bruising leadership contest, which is expected to formally begin in early January. The goal is to have a replacement for Jeremy Corbyn in place by the end of March.

Also Read: British PM Boris Johnson Vows To Repay Trust Of 'Labour Voters'

Labour took 203 seats in Thursday's election, its worst total since 1935.Corbyn has apologised for the party's dismal performance and has agreed to step down when a new leader is chosen.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
The January 24 military coup that overthrew Burkina Fasos President Roch Marc Christian Kabore comes amid a deepening security crisis in the country. Both civilians and defence and security forces have long voiced their discontent, including with Mr Kabores political stewardship.

This was also West Africas fourth coup in less than two years. Mr Kabores deposition follows those of former Malian presidents Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and Bah NDaw in August 2020 and May 2021 respectively, and that of former Guinean President Alpha Conde in September 2021.

Much more than a trend, increasing coups reflect a major crisis in West Africas political systems, which are not meeting the peoples expectations and are plagued by corruption. They indicate a need to rethink democratic models  not just elections, but also the effectiveness of institutions that are supposed to protect and serve citizens.

Burkinas latest coup was orchestrated by Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, who was recently promoted to head the countrys third military region.

Since 2015, the country has faced an unprecedented crisis that has killed an estimated 7,569 people in six years and displaced more than 1.6 million. Frequent attacks by jihadist insurgents have targeted civilians and government officials, especially the armed forces, which have suffered heavy losses. Teachers, civil servants and judicial staff are also being targeted, leading to the disuse of public services in conflict-affected areas.

In June 2021, an attack on the village of Solhan, not far from the Niger border, killed at least 132 people. It was one of the deadliest in the country but wasnt an isolated case. In 2021 alone, Burkina Faso recorded some 1,337 crisis-related violent incidents, with 2 294 casualties.

This is despite Mr Kabores efforts to prioritise security. In January 2020, his government created the Volontaires pour la defense de la patrie, a corps of civilian auxiliaries mobilised to support the national defence and security forces. Most of its members come from former community militias. The government has also made budgetary efforts. Between 2016 and 2021, the national budget for defence and security grew from 240,746,280 to 652,759,680  an increase of 271.14 per cent.

However, these investments havent improved the forces living conditions or operational capacity much, partly due to financial management problems. Rather, persistent equipment and supply problems have made them weaker while jihadist groups grow stronger.

In November 2021, 53 police officers died in a terror attack on the Inata military post while they were waiting for logistical support and supplies, including food rations. The incident sent shock waves through the country, leading to calls for Mr Kabores resignation. The dismissal of his prime minister, Christophe Dabire, in early December initially eased tensions, but this was short-lived.

The Inata tragedy widened the gap between troops on the ground and military and political hierarchies. But the distrust is not surprising or new  it is mutual and long-standing. It dates back to the fall of Blaise Compaore in 2014 and the dissolution of his presidential security regiment, as well as the attempted counter-coup in September 2015. While the counter-coup was thwarted, it damaged political leaders confidence in the military.

Many Burkinabe were also frustrated with the political management of the Kabore regime, which was regularly accused of corruption, laxity and nepotism. Since 2017, polls have shown a steady decline in trust and satisfaction with a government that has failed to meet the Burkinabe peoples expectations for good governance. These expectations were considerable after 27 years of rule by Compaore, who also came to power in a coup.

Rumours of a coup resurfaced in late 2021 amid continued security and governance problems. If the arrest of Lieutenant-Colonel Emmanuel Zoungrana in early January this year is any indication, the threat was taken seriously. He was suspected of inciting the action.

This is not the first time Burkina Faso has faced a coup  its at least the countrys fifth since its 1960 independence, not counting the aborted attempt in September 2015 and the popular uprising in October 2014.

In the current regional context, though, the recent coup highlights the challenges of ineffective governments that fail to meet peoples expectations in terms of transparency and security. Together, these coups reflect a major crisis in West Africas political systems, which mustnt be overlooked.

While military transitions with unpredictable outcomes are multiplying in West Africa, the upcoming one in Burkina Faso carries high stakes. It could compound political and security problems in a region facing growing insecurity in the Sahel and the coastal states.

This new constitutional breach should urge the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to learn from Malis case by adopting a pragmatic and constructive approach.

With three military transitions now in its hands, ECOWAS will have to go beyond the expected condemnations and initiate dialogue with Burkina Fasos new leaders. In this respect, the diplomatic and military missions decided by the regions heads of state on 28 January are encouraging.

Going forward, this dialogue should aim to establish a roadmap based on concrete objectives jointly agreed with the whole of Burkina Fasos political class and civil society. The success of this approach will depend on the regional blocs ability to take into account the unique national realities of the country  beyond posturing.

Ornella Moderan, Programme Head and Fahiraman Rodrigue Kone, Senior Researcher, Sahel Programme, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Regional Office for West Africa, the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin

This article is published with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).
Russia has also restructured corporate debts in the country to be in rubles rather than dollars, for example.

At the same time, Russia has shifted some trade to Asia. And, after 2014, when Russia imposed trade restrictions on European cheese as a retaliation for sanctions, Moscow replaced lost imports with homegrown alternatives.

Though the world scoffed at Russian Brie and Parmesan, made from palm oil rather than milk, many Russian consumers now say they are satisfied with the change. The cheese episode, though it might seem peripheral, demonstrated Moscows resilience to consumer shortages.

Mr. Putin has also learned how to keep Russias all-important political and business elite (who keep him in power the way that voters keep democratic leaders in power) loyal even under sanctions.

Political insiders or oligarchs who lost their London flats or foreign investments after 2014, for example, may have been granted a construction or energy contract at home as recompense.

This actually strengthens regime coherence, Mr. Gabuev said of sanctions targeting the elite, because all of the key people now have no option to go back to normal with the West.
WESTMINSTER, Colo., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxar Technologies ( NYSE: MAXR) (TSX: MAXR), provider of comprehensive space solutions and secure, precise, geospatial intelligence, today announced a new five-year agreement with European Space Imaging and Space Imaging Middle East, strategic partners serving customers in Europe, Northern Africa and the Middle East.

European Space Imaging and Space Imaging Middle East provide Maxar high-resolution satellite imagery to a wide spectrum of government and commercial organizations for applications including border security, disaster response and agriculture. Continuing an 11-year partnership, European Space Imaging has reserved dedicated capacity on Maxar's existing WorldView satellite imaging constellation, accessed directly via its ground station in Germany. The agreement also provides for upgrades to European Space Imaging's ground station that would allow it to access Maxar's next-generation WorldView Legion satellites.

"We're delighted to continue one of our longest and most important partnerships in this region," said Tony Frazier, Maxar EVP and General Manager, Public Sector Maxar Earth Intelligence. "This agreement ensures European and Middle Eastern customers will have access to the highest quality satellite imagery and innovative products, such as our 15 cm HD imagery. We are pleased that customers in Europe, Northern Africa and the Middle East will soon be able to take advantage of WorldView Legion's game-changing capabilities."

"This enduring alliance between Space Imaging Middle East, European Space Imaging and Maxar Technologies has been fundamental to the success of all parties involved for many years, and we are very pleased to see it extended further," said Maitha Juma, Chairperson of Space Imaging Middle East and European Space Imaging.

"Accessing the highest quality satellite data at unapparelled efficiency in the collection and delivery process will provide new business opportunities that will benefit both our team and the European Earth Observation community as a whole," said Adrian Zevenbergen, Managing Director of European Space Imaging.

About Maxar

Maxar Technologies ( NYSE:MAXR) (TSX:MAXR) is a provider of comprehensive space solutions and secure, precise, geospatial intelligence. We deliver disruptive value to government and commercial customers to help them monitor, understand and navigate our changing planet; deliver global broadband communications; and explore and advance the use of space. Our unique approach combines decades of deep mission understanding and a proven commercial and defense foundation to deploy solutions and deliver insights with unrivaled speed, scale and cost-effectiveness. Maxar's 4,400 team members in over 20 global locations are inspired to harness the potential of space to help our customers create a better world. For more information, visit www.maxar.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements and other information included in this release constitute "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") under applicable securities laws. Statements including words such as "may", "will", "could", "should", "would", "plan", "potential", "intend", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate" or "expect" and other words, terms and phrases of similar meaning are often intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements involve estimates, expectations, projections, goals, forecasts, assumptions, risks and uncertainties, as well as other statements referring to or including forward-looking information included in this presentation.

Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or expectations expressed in this presentation. As a result, although management of the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. The risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to, the risk factors and other disclosures about the Company and its business included in the Company's continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with U.S. securities and Canadian regulatory authorities, which are available online under the Company's EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov, under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com or on the Company's website at www.maxar.com.

The forward-looking statements contained in this release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. All such forward-looking statements are based upon data available as of the date of this presentation or other specified date and speak only as of such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements in this presentation as a result of new information or future events, except as may be required under applicable securities legislation.

Investor Relations Contact:

Jason Gursky

Maxar VP, Investor Relations and Corporate Treasurer

1-303-684-2207

[email protected]

Media Contact:

Turner Brinton

Maxar Media Relations

1-303-684-4545

[email protected]

SOURCE Maxar Technologies Ltd
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As per this revised research analysis by Persistence Market Research, the global ultra-portable speakers market held a net worth of US$ 1.9 Bn in 2020, and analysis predict the valuation to surge to US$ 5.9 Bn by the end of the decade. Global demand for ultra-portable speakers is anticipated to rise at an impressive CAGR of 12% over the next ten years.

Persistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd.

Use of technology and smartphones has increased substantially over the past decade, and in this age of digitization, demand for technologically advanced products and services is expected to be significant. Portable consumer electronic products have seen a massive rise in popularity over the past decade, and this has set up the market for strong growth in this decade. People have increased their outdoor activities and are demanding portable speakers that they can use with ease. This has also given impetus to demand for waterproof and dustproof speakers with enhanced durability for outdoor use.

Rising adoption of smartphones, innovations in technology, changing consumer preferences, emergence of high-resolution audio, and increased proliferation of OTT technology and services are some of the major factors influencing demand and sales of ultra-portable speakers across the globe.

Request for sample copy of report: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/24601

Prime manufacturers of ultra-portable speakers are focusing on expanding their product offerings and developing and integrating advanced technologies in their new speakers.

In October 2021 , Sonos, a renowned name in the speaker and audio industry, announced the launch of its new smart speakers in India - Sonos Roam

, Sonos, a renowned name in the speaker and audio industry, announced the launch of its new smart speakers in - Sonos Roam In November 2021 , Transparent, a Swedish audio brand, announced the launch of its first portable speaker. The Light Speaker has an elegant design and is suitable for both, indoor and outdoor use, as it comes with an IPX2 weather rating.

Key Takeaways from Market Study

Through 2031, the ultra-portable speakers market is expected to rise at a CAGR of 12%.

The residential segment is anticipated to hold a dominant share of the industry through the forecast period.

Sales via online/e-Commerce channels are expected to see significant rise over the next ten years.

Ultra-portable speaker sales revenue is expected to bring in a total of US$ 5.9 Bn in 2031.

in 2031. The North American ultra-portable speakers market is expected to hold a dominant revenue share in the global marketplace.

Rapidly changing consumer preferences, increasing outdoor activity, innovation in technology, and rising adoption of smartphones and smart home technologies are factors that guide industry expansion.

Get customized report as per requirement: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/request-customization/24601

"Technological innovations are expected to play a crucial role in the development of smart ultra-portable speakers and influence overall market stance," says a Persistence Market Research analyst.

Competitive Landscape

The global market for ultra-portable speakers has some major players that dominate the overall landscape, but the market still has a lot of untapped potential, which new players in the industry can focus on and gain recognition.

Some of the key market players included in the report are Anker Innovations Limited, Beats Electronics LLC, Bose Corporation, Harman International Industries, Klipsch Group Inc., Sony Corporation, Xmi Pte. Ltd., Koninklijke Philips N.V., Samsung Electronics, and ULTIMATE EARS.

The aforementioned key players have a notable contribution to the industry in terms of sales and revenue share.

Get full access of report: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/24601

More Valuable Insights on Offer

Persistence Market Research, a research and consulting firm, has published a revised market research report on the global ultra-portable speakers market that contains industry analysis of 20162020 and opportunity assessment for 20212031.

The report provides an in-depth analysis of the market through different segments, namely, technology, end-user, distribution channel, and region. The report also provides supply and demand trends along with an overview of the parent market.

Related Reports:

About Persistence Market Research:

Persistence Market Research (PMR), as a 3rd-party research organization, does operate through an exclusive amalgamation of market research and data analytics for helping businesses ride high, irrespective of the turbulence faced on the account of financial/natural crunches.

Overview:

Persistence Market Research is always way ahead of its time. In other words, it tables market solutions by stepping into the companies'/clients' shoes much before they themselves have a sneak pick into the market. The pro-active approach followed by experts at Persistence Market Research helps companies/clients lay their hands on techno-commercial insights beforehand, so that the subsequent course of action could be simplified on their part.

Contact

Rajendra Singh

Persistence Market Research

U.S. Sales Office:

305 Broadway, 7th Floor

New York City, NY 10007

+1-646-568-7751

United States

USA - Canada Toll-Free: 800-961-0353

Email: [email protected]

Visit Our Website: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com

SOURCE Persistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd.
Californias Appeal for Proof of Unemployment Eligibility Flops

Californias attempt to claw back more than $20 billion in unemployment insurance (UI) payments from those who didnt qualify for benefits has flopped, with 80 percent of the 1.4 million recipients contacted failing to respond to the governments request to prove their eligibility.

The federally funded Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program was designed to help people, such as small business owners and self-employed independent contractors, who wouldnt normally qualify for Employment Development Department (EDD) benefits.

The PUA program expired last fall, but many of the 2.9 million Californians who received the benefits werent qualified to receive them.

Only about 280,000 PUA recipients have provided proof. Of those who did respond, about nine out of every 10 were deemed eligible to receive the benefits, according to the Sacramento Bee.

The state has reported about $20 billion in suspected EDD fraud and appealed to PUA recipients in November to prove they had legitimately applied for and received benefits. Recipients were warned that in some cases, the money might have to be repaidwith a 30 percent penalty if the state found recipients intentionally gave false information or withheld information to get the money.

In December, state Sen. Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) told California Insider host Siyamak Khorrami the actual level of fraud could cost California businesses and taxpayers as much as $30 billion to bail out EDD.

This is an employer tax, essentially, Bates said. Its a huge amount. The taxpayers have probably the lowest burden but our employers have a huge burden, and this is really, really impactful to our small businesses, when they are just recovering.

Initially, federal law required only that EDD obtain documentation from PUA applicants who sought more than the minimum benefit amount of $167 a week. Those who did not ask for more were not required to provide proof or work or documentation verifying their income.

A press release issued by the California Governors Office of Emergency Services on April 28, 2020, stated applicants did not need to submit any documents to EDD with PUA applications.

The federal government has since asked for more proof from recipients that they had either worked or planned to work as they had indicated in their applications for PUA benefits.

According to the California State Auditor, EDDs data show that out of a total $111 billion paid during the pandemic, from March 2020 through December 2020, it paid about $10.4 billion for claims that it has since determined could be fraudulent.

The fraud happened despite warnings from the U.S. Department of Labor to states at least twice in the early months of the pandemic that it had not relaxed its expectations related to fraud prevention in light of the pandemic, according to the auditors report.

The labor department issued the two warnings in April and May of 2020.

Despite these repeated warnings, EDD did not take prompt action to enhance safeguards against illegitimate benefit payments, the report states.

Data shows that EDD responded slowly to increased risk of fraud as claims surged. According to the report, EDD did not make any substantive changes to its fraud detection practices until late July 2020four months after the pandemic-related shutdowns led to a surge in UI claims.

Meanwhile, district attorneys in Sacramento, Kern, El Dorado, and San Mateo counties and the U.S. Attorney of the Eastern District of California have reported widespread unemployment fraud within county jails and prisons in the state.

When will the madness end? California Assemblyman Vince Fong posted on Facebook on Nov. 24: EDD sending unemployment benefits to convicted murderers, rapists, and death row inmates. The clown car of mismanagement and fraud continues at the EDD. California needs a new direction!
Taliban extremists stand guard along a street during a demonstration by people to condemn the recent protest by the Afghan women's rights activists, in Kabul, on Jan. 21, 2022. (Mohd Rasfan/AFP via Getty Images)

Humanitarian Funds Can Be Sent to Afghanistan Without Violating Sanctions on Taliban: US Treasury Department

The U.S. Treasury Department has told international banks and aid groups that they are allowed to transfer money to Afghanistan for humanitarian purposes without violating sanctions on the Taliban.

In guidance issued on Feb. 2, officials said that banks can process transactions for use in delivering humanitarian assistance including clearing, settlement, and transfers through, to, or otherwise involving privately owned and state-owned Afghan depository institutions.

It added that NGOs can make salary support or stipend payments directly to health care workers, such as doctors at public hospitals or health care workers at community clinics.

The department also authorized engagement with the Taliban and the Haqqani Networkwhich has been designated a terrorist organization and blacklisted by the United Statesto facilitate such transactions and for humanitarian aid coordination.

Similarly, even to the extent doing so would involve transacting with the Taliban and/or Haqqani Network, NGOs can make such salary support or stipend payments directly to teachers, including teachers at Afghan public and private schools, officials said.

In addition, payments of taxes, fees, or import duties to, or the purchase or receipt of permits, licenses, or public utility services from, the Taliban, the Haqqani Network, or any entity in which the Taliban or the Haqqani Network owns, directly or indirectly, a 50 percent or greater interest, are authorized  if ordinarily incident and necessary to activities.

After the Taliban took control of Afghanistan last year, Washington promptly ordered the militant Islamic groups U.S. assets frozen and barred Americans from dealing with them so as to prevent it from falling into the groups hands.

While the group initially vowed to run the country more moderately than when it last held power 20 years ago, Afghans and the international community remain skeptical of such claims amid reports of executions, arrests, detentions, and threats while Afghanistans education and social services are on the brink of collapse.

Meanwhile, the country faces mass famine conditions and the United Nations Secretary-General has said almost half of the population of Afghanistan18 million peopleneeds urgent humanitarian assistance to survive.

However, the U.N. and aid groups are struggling to get money into the country to help alleviate the crisis as international banks remain wary of facilitating such transactions.

On Jan. 11, however, the White Housenoting that the United States remains the single largest donor of humanitarian to Afghanistanannounced it would send more than $308 million in aid to the country.

The aid will be distributed by the U.S. Agency for International Development through independent humanitarian groups and will include protection and shelter, essential health care, winterization assistance, emergency food aid, water, sanitation, and hygiene services in response to the growing humanitarian needs exacerbated by COVID-19 and healthcare shortages, drought, malnutrition, and the winter season, officials said.

That amount would bring the total U.S. humanitarian aid in Afghanistan and for Afghan refugees in the region to nearly $782 million since October 2021, White House National Security Council spokesperson Emily Horne said.
Like many modern observances, Groundhog Day can trace its origin from a few different directions.

February 2 is Candlemas. In the Catholic Church, it is also known as the Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple, and many sources suggest that candles were introduced in the celebration of the feast during the 5th century.

Even before that, February 2 marked Imbolc, a Gaelic festival recognizing the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

Through the centuries, songs and poems developed around the event, similar to this English verse of legend:

If Candlemas be fair and bright,

Come, Winter, have another flight;

If Candlemas brings clouds and rain,

Go Winter, and come not again.

Through time, celebrations and folklore evolved and spread across Europe, ultimately becoming tied to the animal world. In Germany, if a badger or hedgehog saw its shadow on Candlemas, winter was expected to continue.

German settlers brought their folklore to the New World, and a similar animal was found to continue the tradition, a groundhog.

Several groundhogs, from Sir Walter Wally in North Carolina to Chattanooga Chuck in Tennessee, have gained popularity. But in Virginia, the groundhog stories are not quite as neat and tidy.

On February 2, 1914, a practical joke led a couple thousand people to gather on Capitol Square to watch for a groundhog that never appeared. And in 1954, right before making his prognostication, Virginias official groundhog killed himself trying to get out of his cage at the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.

The most famous groundhog resides in the small western Pennsylvania town of Punxsutawney, where they have been celebrating this tradition since 1887. Phil is such an icon in Pennsylvania, that the state uses a groundhog in its lottery ads (Keep on scratchin'). Although to keep the two creatures distinct from one another, the advertisers named their groundhog Gus.

Whether or not Phil has been correct over the years is a matter of perspective, and how one subjectively defines winter.

According to NOAA and the record keepers in Punxsutawney, Phil has forecast six more weeks of winter 105 times since 1887.

The debates and discussions are all good fun. After all, how do you define an early spring, or a continuation of winter? One straightforward method uses average temperatures for the months of February and March. If the average temperatures are above normal for those months, it would qualify as an early spring. And vice versa.

Using that method, Phil is only right about 40 percent of the time. Perhaps that's not the best track record. But in the end, it doesnt matter; we love our folklore and how it ties us to the natural world.

And we love a reason to celebrate. The parties will continue every February on those cold Pennsylvania mornings, with people coming together to celebrate winter's annual turning point, just like their ancestors did centuries ago.
New Delhi:

Amid protests continuing over the Citizenship Amendment Act, United States on Monday urged India to protect and respect the right of peaceful assembly of the people and appealed protesters to refrain from violence. US State Department spokesperson said Washington is closely following the developments regarding the Citizenship Amendment Act in India.

Respect for religious freedom and equal treatment under the law are fundamental principles of our two democracies. United States urges India to protect rights of its religious minorities in keeping with Indias Constitution and democratic values, US State Department spokesperson told news agency ANI.

US State Dept Spokesperson to ANI: Respect for religious freedom&equal treatment under the law are fundamental principles of our two democracies. United States urges India to protect rights of its religious minorities in keeping with Indias Constitution&democratic values. 2/2 https://t.co/xN9ly4KgMz  ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2019

In the wake of new citizenship act, protests erupted in Northeast region followed by students agitation against crackdown across universities in India.

In view of violent protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act, Ministry of Home Affairs has already issued an advisory to states and Union Territories asking them to take requisite precautionary measures to maintain law and order, sources said.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
A senator holds a bag of hemp product, used by Sen. Kevin Blackwell, R-Southaven, lead negotiator, to illustrate to lawmakers what specific portions of the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Equivalency Units would look like, during his presentation of the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act in the Senate Chamber at the Mississippi State Capitol in Jackson, Miss., Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022. The body passed the act. Credit: AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis

Mississippi is legalizing medical marijuana for people with debilitating conditions such as cancer, AIDS and sickle cell disease.

Republican Gov. Tate Reeves signed the legislation Wednesday and it became law immediately. It could be months before the first marijuana dispensaries open.

"There is no doubt that there are individuals in our state who could do significantly better if they had access to medically prescribed doses of cannabis," Reeves wrote in a statement posted to Twitter. "There are also those who really want a recreational marijuana program that could lead to more people smoking and less people working, with all the societal and family ills that that brings."

The National Conference of State Legislatures says 36 states and four territories already allowed the medical use of cannabis. Mississippi becomes the 37th state.

"For all the people who are touched in some way by a loved one or someone they know who benefits from medical cannabis, this brings their quality of life back," said Ken Newburger, executive director the Mississippi Medical Marijuana Association, a group that pushed for legalization.

A majority of Mississippi voters approved a medical marijuana initiative in November 2020, and it would have allowed people to buy up to 5 ounces a month. The state Supreme Court invalidated it six months later by ruling that the state's initiative process was outdated and the measure was not put properly on the ballot.

Gov. Tate Reeves outlines his priorities during his State of the State address before a joint session of the Legislature on the steps of the Mississippi State Capitol in Jackson, Miss., Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022. Credit: AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis

The state House and Senate, both controlled by Republicans, passed the final version of Senate Bill 2095 last week.

The new law will allow patients to buy up to to 3.5 grams of cannabis per day, up to six days a week. That is about 3 ounces per month. It sets taxes on production and sale of cannabis, and it specifies that plants must be grown indoors under controlled conditions.

Reeves said because of the reduction from 5 ounces a month in the initiative to 3 ounces a month in the new law, "there will be hundreds of millions of fewer joints on the streets because of this improvement."

The new law prohibits the state from providing economic development incentives for the cannabis industry. The state often provides tax breaks and financial assistance for roads or water access to industrial sites.

The law gives cities and counties 90 days to opt out of allowing medical marijuana facilities, for growing or selling. But, people in those communities could petition for an election to overrule local officials' decisions and allow them.

Clint Patterson is chief executive officer of Mockingbird Cannabis, which plans to operate in the state. He said cannabis products can alleviate pain and suffering.

"We look forward to serving the citizens of Mississippi as they seek to improve their health and quality of life through responsible cannabis use," Patterson said in a statement.

Explore further Medical marijuana bill passes, heads to Mississipi governor

 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
NEW YORK, Feb. 02, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On February 1, 2022, millions around the world celebrated Lunar New Year, which in 2022 ushers in the Year of the Tiger.



For the Asian American Business Development Center (AABDC), the premier business-focused organization for the Asian American community, the Lunar New Year is an opportunity to celebrate cultural traditions and to recognize corporations that have made outstanding contributions to the community. This year, in partnership with Next shark and sponsored by Con Edison, Colgate-Palmolive and Diageo, the Lunar New Year virtual event will be streamed on the Nextshark Facebook platform on February 8th.

In 2022, AABDCs Lunar New Year Planning Committee has decided to present the Distinguished Corporate Service Award to Hennessy and PepsiCo for their long-standing support and contributions to the Asian American community.

In 2020, Hennessy contributed $4M in two phases through its Unfinished Business initiative to help Black, Asian, and Hispanic-owned small businesses with financial and educational resources to power through the challenges of COVID-19.

In 2021, PepsiCo and The PepsiCo Foundation made a $1M commitment to provide support in partnership with the Asian American Business Development Center (AABDC), the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), the National Restaurant Association (NRA) and The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) in the Stronger Together community-based programs, recognizing the devastating business and social impact during the pandemic.

The Year of the Tiger brings messages of courage and a fighting spirit, said John Wang, Founder and President of AABDC. The Asian American community has endured a period of not only health risks and economic distress, but anti-Asian violence. But a new year brings new hope and optimism. We are excited to celebrate this auspicious holiday with corporate allies like Hennessy and PepsiCo.

Diverse communities have faced the brunt of the after-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and two years later, are still struggling to return to normal. Under-represented, often left out of government and financial support systems, many minority enterprises and individuals have suffered devastating losses, said Seth Kaufman, President & Chief Executive Officer of Moet Hennessy North America.

Faced with this reality, we set up Unfinished Business, a platform to support small business entrepreneurs with capital as well as access to information, educational content and other assets, he added. We are proud to accept this award on behalf of all of the dedicated associates who work every day at Hennessy to make a positive impact on communities that we live in.

Asian Americans play a significant role in Americas economy and are major contributors to the business community, whether as corporate professionals or small business owners, said Ramon L. Laguarta, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of PepsiCo.

Our Stronger Together community-based programs leverage the expertise of PepsiCo and our partners to connect people and support communities in need, he added. We thank AABDC for recognizing the efforts of all of our global employees who make these partnerships succeed, and who supply urgent solutions during these difficult times.

AABDC has played a leading role in bringing cultural traditions to the mainstream. From 1998 to 2005, it organized an annual lighting ceremony and private reception on the evening before the Lunar New Year on top of the 86th floor of the Empire State Building where various government officials were invited to present proclamations in recognition of the Lunar New Year.

Even though the pandemic has forced us to take the Lunar New Year event online, we are excited to turn the page to a new year, said Wang. Asian Americans are one of the most dynamic and diverse communities in America, but also often among the least understood, and we welcome the opportunity to share our long-held traditions.

About Hennessy

The leader in Cognac, the Maison Hennessy has shined around the world with its exceptional blends for more than 250 years. Built on founder Richard Hennessy's spirit of conquest, the brand is present in more than 130 countries. Based in the heart of the Charente region, Hennessy is also a steadfast pillar of the regional economy, the standard-bearer for a sector rich in expertise. The House's success and longevity are rooted in the excellence of its cognacs, each of which is born of a unique process of transmission from generation to generation.

The first wine and spirits house to be certified ISO 14001, Hennessy unites its capacity for innovation and the support of all of its partners to protect this exceptional area. As the crown jewel of the LVMH Group, Hennessy is a major contributor to French international trade, with 99% of production sold in export, and a worldwide ambassador for the French art de vivre.

Hennessy is imported and distributed in the U.S. by Moet Hennessy USA. Hennessy distills, ages and blends spanning a full range: Hennessy V.S, V.S.O.P Privilege, Hennessy Black, X.O, Prive, Paradis, Paradis Imperial, and Richard Hennessy. Imported Cognac Hennessy 40% Alc./Vol. (80), 2020 Imported by Moet Hennessy USA, Inc., New York, NY

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $70 billion in net revenue in 2020, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker, Tropicana and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 23 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Convenient Foods and Beverages by Winning with Purpose. "Winning with Purpose" reflects our ambition to win sustainably in the marketplace and embed purpose into all aspects of our business strategy and brands. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com.

About The PepsiCo Foundation

Established in 1962, The PepsiCo Foundation, the philanthropic arm of PepsiCo, invests in the essential elements of a sustainable food system with a mission to support thriving communities. Working with non-profits and experts around the globe, we are focused on helping alleviate hunger, managing water and waste responsibly and supporting women as champions of nutrition from farm to family. We strive for tangible impact in the places where we live and workcollaborating with industry peers, local and international organizations, and our employees to affect large-scale change on the issues that matter to us and are of global importance. Learn more at www.pepsico.com/sustainability/philanthropy.

About the Asian American Business Development Center

The Asian American Business Development Center, Inc. is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization established in 1994. It assists Asian American businesses in strengthening their capacity to compete in the mainstream market, to expand business opportunities, and to promote recognition of Asian American businesses contributions to the general economy. AABDC: www.aabdc.com Outstanding 50 Awards: www.outstanding50award.com

AABR: www.aabusinessroundtable.org

Contact Barfield Public Relations Inc at 212-736-0404 or

AABDC: info@aabdc.com, 212-966-0100

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6ae101d7-11fc-4409-9c9a-5862679c2b59

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9919c717-3fe8-48a8-991a-78f647382b88
ATMEH, Syria (AP)  The leader of the violent Islamic State group was killed during an overnight raid carried out by U.S. special forces in Syrias northwestern Idlib province, President Joe Biden said Thursday.

The raid targeted Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, who took over as head of the militant group on Oct. 31, 2019, just days after leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi died during a U.S. raid in the same area. A U.S. official said al-Qurayshi died as al-Baghdadi did, by exploding a bomb that killed himself and members of his family, including women and children, as U.S. forces approached.

The operation came as IS has been trying for a resurgence, with a series of attacks in the region, including a 10-day assault late last month to seize a prison.

U.S. special forces landed in helicopters and assaulted a house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said. Residents described continuous gunfire and explosions that jolted the town of Atmeh near the Turkish border, an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syrias civil war.

First responders reported that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women.

Biden said in a statement that he ordered the raid to protect the American people and our allies, and make the world a safer place." He planned to address the American public later Thursday morning.

Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi  the leader of ISIS, Biden said in a statement. He said all Americans involved in the operation returned safely.

Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and senior national security aides monitored a live-feed of the operation from the White House Situation Room according to an official.

The operation marked a military success for the United States at an important time after setbacks elsewhere  including the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal  have led allies and opponents to conclude U.S. power globally was weakening.

The two-story house, surrounded by olive trees in fields outside Atmeh, was left with its top floor shattered and blood spattered inside. A journalist on assignment for The Associated Press and several residents said they saw body parts scattered near the site. Most residents spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

The mission was successful, Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said in a brief statement. There were no U.S. casualties."

Idlib is largely controlled by Turkish-backed fighters but is also an al-Qaida stronghold and home to several of its top operatives. Other militants, including extremists from the rival IS group, have also found refuge in the region.

The first moments were terrifying; no one knew what was happening, said Jamil el-Deddo, a resident of a nearby refugee camp. We were worried it could be Syrian aircraft, which brought back memories of barrel bombs that used to be dropped on us, he added, referring to crude explosives-filled containers used by President Bashar Assads forces against opponents during the Syrian conflict.

The top floor of the low house was nearly destroyed; a room there had collapsed, sending white bricks tumbling to the ground below.

Blood could be seen on the walls and floor of the remaining structure. A wrecked bedroom had a childs wooden crib and a stuffed rabbit doll. On one damaged wall, a blue plastic baby swing was still hanging. Religious books, including a biography of Islam's Prophet Mohammad, were in the house.

Al-Qurayshi had kept an extremely low profile since he took over leadership of the Islamic State. He had not appeared in public, and rarely released any audio recordings. His influence and day-to-day involvement in the groups operations was not known and it is difficult to gauge how his death will affect the group.

His killing, however, is a significant blow just as the group had been trying to reassert itself in Syria and Iraq.

The opposition-run Syrian Civil Defense, first responders also known as the White Helmets, said 13 people were killed in shelling and clashes that ensued after the U.S. commando raid.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, also said the strike killed 13 people, including four children and two women. Ahmad Rahhal, a citizen journalist who visited the site, reported seeing 12 bodies.

The Pentagon provided no details on casualties in the raid.

The Observatory said the troops landed in helicopters. Residents and activists described witnessing a large ground assault, with U.S. forces using megaphones urging women and children to leave the area.

Omar Saleh, a resident of a nearby house, said he was asleep when his doors and windows started to rattle to the sound of low-flying aircraft at 1:10 a.m. local time. He ran to open the windows with the lights off, and saw three helicopters. He then heard a man, speaking Arabic with an Iraqi or Saudi accent through a loudspeaker, urging women to surrender or leave the area.

This went on for 45 minutes. There was no response. Then the machine gun fire erupted, Saleh said. He said the firing continued for two hours, as aircraft circled low over the area.

Taher al-Omar, an Idlib-based activist, said he witnessed clashes between fighters and the U.S. force. Others reported hearing at least one major explosion during the operation. A U.S. official said that one of the helicopters in the raid suffered a mechanical problem and had to be blown up on the ground.

The military operation got attention on social media, with tweets from the region describing helicopters firing around the building near Atmeh. Flight-tracking data also suggested that multiple drones were circling the city of Sarmada and the village of Salwah, just north of the raids location.

At the height of its territorial conquests around 2014, the Islamic State controlled more than 40,000 square miles stretching from Syria to Iraq and ruled over 8 million people.

The Islamic State group has been reasserting itself in Syria and Iraq with increased attacks.

Last month, it carried out its biggest military operation since it was defeated and its members scattered underground in 2019: an attack on a prison in northeast Syria holding at least 3,000 IS detainees. The attack appeared aimed to break free senior IS operatives in the prison.

It took 10 days of fighting for U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led forces to retake the prison fully, and the force said more than 120 of its fighters and prison workers were killed along with 374 militants. The U.S.-led coalition carried out airstrikes and deployed American personnel in Bradley Fighting Vehicles to the prison area to help the Kurdish forces.

A senior SDF official, Nowruz Ahmad, said Monday that the prison assault was part of a broader plot that IS had been preparing for a long time, including attacks on other neighborhoods in Kurdish-run northeastern Syria and on the al-Hol camp in the south, which houses thousands of families of IS members.

The U.S.-led coalition has targeted high-profile militants on several occasions in recent years, aiming to disrupt what U.S. officials say is a secretive cell known as the Khorasan group that is planning external attacks. A U.S. airstrike killed al-Qaidas second in command, former bin Laden aide Abu al-Kheir al-Masri, in Syria in 2017.

___

Baldor and Miller reported from Washington and Mroue from Beirut. Associated Press writers Zeina Karam in Beirut and Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad and Eric Tucker in Washington contributed reporting.
The Union health ministry on Thursday refuted as misleading media reports which claimed that 50 lakh unused Covishield doses may go waste by the end of this month.

It said the Centre had proactively advised all state governments to review the availability of vaccines, right from the start of the vaccination drive against COVID-19, to ensure that the wastage of doses is reduced to a minimum.

The health ministry had in November last year communicated to the states that they should regularly review the status of the vaccines that were expected to cross their shelf life in the coming months, but were available with private hospitals.

The states were also advised to ensure that no dose gets expired -- both in government and private facilities -- the ministry said in a statement.

It said the states were advised to have a quick video-conference at the level of additional chief secretary (health)/ principal secretary (health) with the private hospitals to look into the utilisation of doses.

States were also advised that they could try interventions such as administration of under Corporate Social Responsibility or vaccination at subsidized rates in private hospitals, the ministry stated.

Furthermore, on the request of specific states, the Union health ministry had clarified that it had no objection to the proposed arrangement of transfer of vaccine, on an exceptional basis, from private sector health facilities to state government health facilities to avoid vaccine expiry and to ensure that no vaccine dose goes waste, the statement read.

Also, the provision of vaccine exchange has been made available on Co-WIN, the government's web portal for vaccination-related information, it noted.

Additionally, discussions have also been held with states, namely West Bengal, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Gujarat and Delhi to ensure that the vaccines available at private COVID vaccination centres are used, the statement mentioned.

(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.)
By Christopher Bing and Raphael Satter

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A flaw in Apple's software exploited by Israeli surveillance firm NSO Group to break into iPhones in 2021 was simultaneously abused by a competing company, according to five people familiar with the matter.

QuaDream, the sources said, is a smaller and lower profile Israeli firm that also develops smartphone hacking tools intended for government clients.

The two rival businesses gained the same ability last year to remotely break into iPhones, according to the five sources, meaning that both firms could compromise Apple phones without an owner needing to open a malicious link. That two firms employed the same sophisticated hacking technique  known as a zero-click  shows that phones are more vulnerable to powerful digital spying tools than the industry will admit, one expert said.

"People want to believe they're secure, and phone companies want you to believe they're secure. What we've learned is, they're not," said Dave Aitel, a partner at Cordyceps Systems, a cybersecurity firm.

Experts analyzing intrusions engineered by NSO Group and QuaDream since last year believe the two companies used very similar software exploits, known as ForcedEntry, to hijack iPhones.

An exploit is computer code designed to leverage a set of specific software vulnerabilities, giving a hacker unauthorized access to data.

The analysts believed NSO and QuaDream's exploits were similar because they leveraged many of the same vulnerabilities hidden deep inside Apple's instant messaging platform and used a comparable approach to plant malicious software on targeted devices, according to three of the sources.

Bill Marczak, a security researcher with digital watchdog Citizen Lab who has been studying both companies' hacking tools, told Reuters that QuaDream's zero-click capability seemed "on par" with NSO's.

Reuters made repeated attempts to reach QuaDream for comment, sending messages to executives and business partners. A Reuters journalist last week visited QuaDreams office, in the Tel Aviv suburb of Ramat Gan, but no one answered the door. Israeli lawyer Vibeke Dank, whose email was listed on QuaDream's corporate registration form, also did not return repeated messages.

Story continues

An Apple spokesman declined to comment on QuaDream or say what if any action they planned to take with regard to the company.

ForcedEntry is viewed as "one of the most technically sophisticated exploits" ever captured by security researchers.

So similar were the two versions of ForcedEntry that when Apple fixed the underlying flaws in September 2021 it rendered both NSO and QuaDreams spy software ineffective, according to two people familiar with the matter.

In a written statement, an NSO spokeswoman said the company "did not cooperate" with QuaDream but that "the cyber intelligence industry continues to grow rapidly globally."

Apple sued NSO Group over ForcedEntry in November, claiming that NSO had violated Apple's user terms and services agreement. The case is still in its early stages.

In its lawsuit, Apple said that it "continuously and successfully fends off a variety of hacking attempts." NSO has denied any wrongdoing.

Spyware companies have long argued they sell high-powered technology to help governments thwart national security threats. But human rights groups and journalists have repeatedly documented the use of spyware to attack civil society, undermine political opposition, and interfere with elections.

Apple notified thousands of ForcedEntry targets in November, making elected officials, journalists, and human rights workers around the world realize they had been placed under surveillance.

In Uganda, for example, NSO's ForcedEntry was used to spy on U.S. diplomats, Reuters reported .

In addition to the Apple lawsuit, Meta's WhatsApp is also litigating over the alleged abuse of its platform. In November, NSO was put on a trade blacklist by the U.S. Commerce Department over human rights concerns.

Unlike NSO, QuaDream has kept a lower profile despite serving some of the same government clients. The company has no website touting its business and employees have been told to keep any reference to their employer off social media, according to a person familiar with the company.

REIGN

QuaDream was founded in 2016 by Ilan Dabelstein, a former Israeli military official, and by two former NSO employees, Guy Geva and Nimrod Reznik, according to Israeli corporate records and two people familiar with the business. Reuters could not reach the three executives for comment.

Like NSO's Pegasus spyware, QuaDream's flagship product - called REIGN - could take control of a smartphone, scooping up instant messages from services such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal, as well as emails, photos, texts and contacts, according to two product brochures from 2019 and 2020 which were reviewed by Reuters.

REIGN's Premium Collection capabilities included the "real time call recordings", "camera activation - front and back" and "microphone activation", one brochure said.

Prices appeared to vary. One QuaDream system, which would have given customers the ability to launch 50 smartphone break-ins per year, was being offered for $2.2 million exclusive of maintenance costs, according to the 2019 brochure. Two people familiar with the software's sales said the price for REIGN was typically higher.

Over the years, QuaDream and NSO Group employed some of the same engineering talent, according to three people familiar with the matter. Two of those sources said the companies did not collaborate on their iPhone hacks, coming up with their own ways to take advantage of vulnerabilities.

Several of QuaDream's buyers have also overlapped with NSO's, four of the sources said, including Saudi Arabia and Mexico - both of whom have been accused of misusing spy software to target political opponents.

One of QuaDream's first clients was the Singaporean government, two of the sources said, and documentation reviewed by Reuters shows the company's surveillance technology was pitched to the Indonesian government as well. Reuters couldn't determine if Indonesia became a client.

Mexican, Singaporean, Indonesian and Saudi officials did not return messages seeking comment about QuaDream.

(Reporting by Christopher Bing and Raphael Satter in Washington. Joseph Menn in San Francisco, Nir Elias in Ramat Gan, Israel, Dan Williams in Jerusalem, and Michele Kambas in Nicosia, Cyprus contributed reporting. Editing by Chris Sanders and Edward Tobin)
In Burkina Faso, the head of the junta met yesterday with political party leaders. The new strong man of the country explained to them the context of the advent of the MPSR, Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration and asked for their support.

Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba exchanged with leaders of the former presidential majority, the former leader of the opposition, the former non-affiliated opposition and representatives of other parties.

The Head of State briefly told us the objective that led them to act and the objectives to be achieved in the short term, that is, to bring peace and security to the Burkinabe. We said that as an ex-opposition, we will contribute in a patriotic spirit. Today we are living with 8 million poor people, one million five hundred thousand displaced people and it continues to shoot but maybe by then, it will change, said Eddie Komboigo, president of the Congress for Democracy and Progress (CDP), former opposition.

We are ready to work with the junta to succeed in its mission of recovery. Because there are things that are not going well, if there is someone today who takes power in the name of the people, to relieve the peoples pain, we can only accompany him, explained Amadou Diemdioda Dicko, vice-president of the Union for Progress and Change (UPC), a party close to the Peoples Movement for Progress (MPP), the former majority that has shown its willingness to accompany the junta.

As for the ex-majority, which was led by Alassane Bama Sakande, former Speaker of Parliament, it did not want to express itself at the end of the meeting. So most political parties, civil society organizations and trade unions show their willingness to accompany the military in power.
Leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are meeting in Accra on Thursday as three jihadist-hit countries in the region  Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso  are ruled by military coup leaders and have been suspended from its governing bodies.

West Africa has been destabilized by four coups in 18 months, two in Mali, one in Guinea and the most recent, less than 10 days ago, in Burkina Faso.

The country is expected to play an important role in the summit, which is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. (local time and GMT), after the visit to Ouagadougou of two delegations  chiefs of staff and then ministers from the region  who met with Burkinas new strongman, Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba.

Hailing Mondays frank discussions, Ghanas Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey said the Burkinabe junta was very open to the suggestions and proposals that were made by ECOWAS.

She and other members of the delegation were able to meet with ousted President Roch Marc Christian Kabore, who is under house arrest and who, they said, is very well. They demanded his release.

Lieutenant Colonel Damiba is calm, composed and very receptive, confirmed a West African diplomat who also met with him.

It remains to be seen whether this first good impression will allow Burkina Faso, suspended from the ECOWAS authorities since Friday, to avoid more significant sanctions.
Patna : The main accused in the PMC Bank scam has been arrested by the Indian security agency from The Raxaul border in Bihar. The accused was trying to flee the country. In 2019, there was a bank scam of 4 thousand 355 crore in PMC Bank, the main accused of which was the director of the bank Daljit Singh Bal. The bank's scam was being investigated by the Maharashtra Economics Offences Wing (EOW).

It is being told that 200 meters before entering Nepal, the immigration department detained the director of PMC Bank, Daljit Singh Bal. The Immigration Department has informed the Mumbai EOW department. At present, Daljit Singh Bal has been kept at Raxaul police station. According to sources, the EOW team has reached Patna. In this case, right now no official is refraining from saying anything.

Let us know that the EOW was constantly looking for the main accused Daljit Singh Bal in this case. Daljit Singh Force was constantly dodging the investigating agency. The interrogation revealed that like Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya, Daljit Singh was about to leave the country and drive to Canada via Nepal. From Maharashtra, he easily reached the Raxaul border, but was captured before entering Nepal.

Police get a big breakthrough, 'Pushpa' arrested

Wife admits husband to hospital after saying corona positive, then murdered

Be careful! Millions of people have got fake corona vaccine
Many countries hard-hit by the coronavirus are easing their strict and often unpopular measures to fight COVID-19.

Night clubs and movie theaters are reopening. People are no longer wearing face coverings, or masks, in public, especially in Europe and North America.

Slowly, many countries are easing their COVID-19 restrictions, as officials hope the Omicron wave has passed its peak.

The highly contagious Omicron variant has resulted in at least 90 million cases worldwide over the past 10 weeks. That is more than all cases in 2020, the pandemics first year.

But the World Health Organization (WHO) this week said some countries can now consider easing the rules. They can do so if they have high vaccination rates, their health care systems are strong and cases are not trending in the wrong direction.

Restrictions are being lifted in many European countries, for many months the world's center of the pandemic. Restrictions are being lifted in South Africa  where Omicron was first announced publicly  and the United States. In Britain and the U.S., like South Africa before them, Omicron cases greatly increased at first but are now coming down quickly.

In the U.S., local leaders have had many different responses. The city of Denver announced plans to end its mask rules for businesses and public spaces, while keeping them for schools and public transportation. A move to ease a mask mandate in New York state, where cases have fallen, is in the courts.

England, France, Ireland, the Netherlands and several Nordic countries have taken steps to end or ease their restrictions. In some places, like Norway and Denmark, the easing comes even though case counts are still near their highs. Some governments are simply hoping that the pandemic is slowing.

Last week, England ended almost all restrictions. Masks are not required in public and vaccines are no longer needed to get into public spaces. The work-from-home order has also been lifted. However, those who test positive still have to isolate.

On Tuesday, Norway lifted its ban on serving alcohol after 11 p.m. and the limit on private gatherings of no more than 10 people.

Now its time for us to take back our everyday life, Norway's Health Minister said Tuesday.

More than 370 million cases and over 5.6 million deaths linked to COVID-19 have been reported worldwide. But the spread of the Omicron variant is beginning to slow in many places. It is giving rise to the hope that the pandemic is about to enter a new stage in which the virus, like the flu, is endemic but manageable.

Omicron has shown to be less likely to cause severe illness than the Delta variant. But experts are still warning about the possibility of a new, more dangerous variant.

Tedros Adhanom Gheybreysus is the head of WHO. He said Tuesday that he is concerned that people think preventing the spread is no longer possible or necessary.

Nothing could be further from the truth, he said.

WHO official, Michael Ryan, warned that political pressure could lead some countries to open back up too soon.

Other continents are continuing to be very careful. Some of the worlds highest vaccination rates are in Asia. And its leaders are keeping their strict lockdown measures or making them even more restrictive.

Just days ahead of the Beijing Winter Olympics, China is holding on to its zero-COVID policy. It imposes strict lockdowns and quarantines quickly when any cases are found. There are also mask mandates for public transportation, and people must prove they are COVID-free to enter most restaurants and stores.

South Africa this week announced that it has moved past the Omicron wave. Studies show immunity in the country is between 60 and 80 percent. Masks are still required, but schools will reopen fully for the first time since March 2020.

Atiya Mosam is with the Public Health Association of South Africa. She said such steps are part of recognizing how transmission occurs, while basically balancing peoples need to live their lives.

Im Dan Novak.

Dan Novak adapted this for VOA Learning English based on reporting by The Associated Press.

_______________________________________

Words in This Story

strict  adj. used to describe a command, rule, etc., that must be obeyed

variant  adj. different in some way from others of the same kind

trend n. a general direction of change : a way of behaving, proceeding, etc., that is developing and becoming more common

mandate   n. an official order to do something

isolate  v. to put or keep in a place or situation that is separate from others

endemic  adj. growing or existing in a certain place or region

quarantine  n. the period of time during which a person or animal that has a disease or that might have a disease is kept away from others to prevent the disease from spreading

transmission  n. the act or process by which something is spread or passed from one person or thing to another
ST. LOUIS  A group called Save Rome of the West has formed in response to the expectation of a historic restructuring of the regional network of Roman Catholic churches. Though small, it signals the kinds of difficult discussions that lie ahead.

Our goal is to keep sacred spaces from being turned profane, said Jason Bolte, 50, leader of the group. We will be doing what we can, canonically speaking, to block the sale of any church that comes down the pike.

St. Louis Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski recently announced the planning stage for what will lay out the most sweeping changes in the archdioceses history. Each of the 178 parishes in the archdiocese are supposed to be affected by the All Things New initiative.

Rozanski has said there isnt a preconceived plan in place and that he seeks feedback, but some members of the flock expect dozens of churches to merge or close, as seen in other parts of the country that have also experienced declines in the number of priests and active Catholics.

The Archdiocese of St. Louis used to be called the Rome of the West because it served a large part of the country. Today, it covers 10 Missouri counties and the city of St. Louis.

Bolte, of Wentzville, said there are about six people actively involved with creating Save Rome of the West so far, but he expected the group to grow. He is also involved with the Church Militant Resistance Group, which seeks to keep the Catholic faith orthodox. He attends St. Barnabus the Apostle, a church in OFallon, Missouri, that has a Traditional Latin Mass worship style that has fallen out of popularity with Roman Catholic leadership.

A recent pastor at St. Barnabus retired early after demonstrating a pattern of failing to comply with archdiocesan administrative policies and directives from the archbishop, according to an official letter about the situation. That included decisions regarding changes to the infrastructure to the parish  some of which were made without seeking proper approvals, and some of which were made in direct contrast to direction given by Rozanski and his predecessor, Archbishop Robert Carlson.

Bolte said he recognizes that some churches in the archdiocese are poorly attended and less popular than others.

That doesnt mean that you go and bulldoze it because you dont have people showing up for church, he said. You could turn it into a chapel. There are plenty of other things that you can do with a sacred space.

Apart from chapels, he said, churches could be maintained as oratories and shrines.

While Save Rome of the West faces a new challenge in the scope of the pending restructure, the archdiocese lists numerous churches that have already closed, merged or been demolished over the years, as the center of the shrinking flock migrated west, to St. Charles County.

There are examples of old churches being saved, though. St. Francis de Sales closed as a South City parish in 2005 and was reopened as an oratory run by the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. The archdiocese closed Immaculate Conception in tiny St. Mary, Missouri, 70 miles south of St. Louis. It soon reopened in 2018 as a chapel or holy landmark run by the St. Mary Immaculate Conception Preservation Society.

We are keeping our head above water, said Kathy Blum, secretary of the board, who, as one of 12 children in her family, grew up in the church. On Christmas Eve, we had standing room only.

The archdiocese still owns the property. The lay group of volunteers pays for all upkeep and for a retired Belleville priest to celebrate Mass a few times a month. They have weddings, funerals and other events.

Blum said the archdiocese, under Carlsons authority when the arrangement was formalized, was supportive of the effort to preserve the historic church building as a chapel.

They wished us well, she said.

Asked Wednesday if Archbishop Rozanski supported these kinds of grassroots efforts to salvage church buildings, the Rev. Chris Martin, who is helping lead the development of a restructuring plan, said in a prepared statement: The proposed timeline of All Things New includes about two years of prayer, discernment and planning, including collecting data and feedback on all aspects within the archdiocese through surveys, focus groups and personal interviews.

Martin encouraged Catholics in the archdiocese to fill out a survey that will be available throughout Lent.

Originally posted at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 2.
India's top authority on Foreign Affairs at the launch of Global Britain Center, a UK think tank said that "Britain needs to look beyond Europe" to combat dangerous China threat. Notably, The Global Britain Centre held its launch reception at the Carlton Club in London on Tuesday. Guest speaker, Brahma Chellaney, Professor of Strategic Studies at the Centre for Policy Research in New Delhi, urged the UK to play a more assertive role to counter China's dangerous "authoritarian capitalism", said the centre in its press release. Professor Chellaney said, "Britain needs to confidently step out on the Indo-Pacific stage to leverage its friends. Britain needs to build enhanced and diversified partnerships in the Indo-Pacific so as to play an expanded role in this vital region", reported the think tank. On the subject of China, Chellaney aired his concerns about Beijing's brand of "authoritarian capitalism", drawing attention to the tens of thousands of Chinese troops stationed on the border with India. He added, "China is too powerful to be denounced for its human rights abuses or even for its genocide in Xinjiang. This explains the muted international response to the Muslim gulags in China...with more than one million detainees.". The event was attended by a cross-party group of more than 30 MPs, and a dozen Ambassadors and High Commissioners', said the press release. According to the press release, the centre's mission is to assemble a coalition of global Britons to drive a positive vision of the United Kingdom engaging with the rest of the world. The event also received a ringing endorsement from Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, who sent his best wishes for the launch reception and expressed his support for the Global Britain Centre. (ANI)
Firefighters from across the county assisted the Wrens department at the Pine Valley fire in October.

When Pine Valleys apartment building B caught fire in October, only six Wrens firefighters were available to respond to the call. Departments from surrounding cities sent the needed help, but it took them time to get there.

When fires ignite or vehicles collide, small, rural departments, such as the ones that exist across Jefferson County, depend on trained volunteers to respond alongside fulltime emergency personnel to save lives.

Wrens Fire Department responded to more than 400 calls in 2021. That department has five full time paid firemen and 21 volunteers. Chief Keith Boulineau said that is not enough.

A lot of our volunteers work in Augusta or out of the county and they just cant drop everything and get to a call here as fast as we need them, Boulineau said. We need help.

In February the Wrens Fire Department will be host a basic firefighter course for volunteers from across the area. The 300-hour course is offered free of charge for anyone wanting to get certified as a Georgia Firefighter. Anyone interested in attending can pick up an application at Wrens City Hall or by contacting Boulineau at (706) 833-3960.

The chief explained that volunteers are paid at the end of the year for the calls and drills they attend and are eligible for the Georgia Firefighters Retirement Program that can pay as much as $1,000 a month for those who retire at age 55 with 20 years of service.

Boulineau said that he needs volunteers who are willing to step up and respond when their neighbors and community need them, people who want to be a part of a team. The best volunteers are in reasonably good physical shape, are at least 18 years old, motivated, want to help and who can drive themselves to fires, wrecks or medical calls.

Chief Keith Boulineau said he needs volunteers who will enter burning buildings, but he also needs volunteers who will help in a variety of roles outside the buildings.

At times its an adrenaline rush, Boulineau said. A lot of time you ask people how they got into fire service and they say they wanted to help people, and thats true, but its also fun. You get to play with these big fire trucks, flow a whole lot of water, and respond to emergencies.

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Sure, he said, he needs people who will go into a burning house and fight a fire, but just as important are the people who roll hoses, carry equipment, run a pump or provide other services on the scene or at the fire station.

The department needs area residents who will step up and get the training to give effective help to their neighbors and community when called.

At some fires he has citizens show up and say they want to help, but during an active accident is not the time to teach someone what they can do to help. Trained volunteers show up and they already know to get the kinks out of hoses and take this equipment to that firefighter.

Among the current volunteers who will be getting additional training during the course is 21-year-old Ethan Carver, who began just before the pandemic hit.

The need for volunteers is huge, Carver said. No matter the time of day, emergencies dont care who you are, when it is or where you are. They are going to happen. The more people you have on standby ready to go, the easier it is on our fulltime guys. They are going to calls with or without volunteers.

Carver said that he works in Augusta during the day and is one of the volunteers who was out of town when the apartment in Pine Valley burned.

Theres guilt that only a handful of volunteers showed up, but that shows the reality of the need, Carver said. When you go to a call, you know that you are helping. You can feel it. Every hand on deck matters and even the smallest calls, when I show up, I feel like we accomplish something as a team and its really rewarding.

Boulineau encourages anyone interested to apply to be a volunteer and pointed out that the department currently has three female firefighters. He is currently planning to hold training two nights a week, one on drill night.

Several of the fulltime firefighters on his department started out as volunteers, Boulineau said, himself included.

I know what its like to be a volunteer. I know this isnt your job. I completely understand that when someone is at work, this is secondary, the chief said. But when youre really needed, you are needed.

He is thankful that there are businesses in this community that let volunteers go to major calls in the middle of the work day.

It is rewarding, Boulineau said. When someone is in need, someone is hurt or needs assistance, I like to be able to help. My volunteers, we depend on each other. And thats the way it is with the community, thats what its all about.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Volunteers needed to save lives and property
The headquarters of Celltrion located in Songdo, Incheon / Courtesy of Celltrion



By Anna J. Park



It seems that financial regulators have a long way to go before reaching a conclusion on the allegations of fraudulent accounting practices at three Celltrion companies  Celltrion, Celltrion Healthcare and Celltrion Pharm.



While a Financial Services Commission (FSC) inspection of Celltrion has been underway since last November, it remains uncertain when the top financial regulator's Securities Futures Commission (SFC)  the deliberation body under the FSC  will officially start discussing the matter.



Some local media outlets have reported that the SFC is set to deliberate on the long-standing issue sometime around next week, after completing discussions at the FSC's accounting-focused deliberative body.



An FSC official told The Korea Times Thursday that it is legally prohibited to reveal or confirm the SFC's meeting agenda. The SFC holds its meetings twice a month, and the official explained that anything discussed can only be disclosed to the public afterwards.



"The FSC committee, with expertise in accounting and supervision issues, has been discussing the fraudulent accounting allegations against Celltrion for months. Only when the committee reaches a conclusion will it then to be transferred to the SFC for further review and deliberation," the official explained, adding that convoluted legal complications surrounding the allegations have been one of the reasons for the slow process.



Prior to the current FSC inspection, the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) had spent nearly three years investigating the accounting fraud allegations at Celltrion. The FSS began investigating the biopharmaceutical company in 2019 after ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) lawmaker Lee Hack-young argued that it had been cooking its books during the National Assembly's annual audit in 2018.



According to the lawmaker, Celltrion Healthcare sold its exclusive distribution rights for the local market to Celltrion for 21.8 billion won ($18 million) in the second quarter of 2018. Celltrion Healthcare logged the item as "ordinary revenue" in its accounting books, which enabled the company to record a net operating profit for that quarter. The lawmaker said that since the sale of the rights was not repetitive in nature, it should have been logged as "non-operating income."



The FSS reached the conclusion that Celltrion Healthcare and Celltrion Pharm had committed other fraudulent accounting practices. The two allegedly had reported lower losses other than those incurred, by deliberately altering the losses incurred from their inventory in their accounting records, which is considered a clear violation of accounting rules.



With the interim conclusion, the FSS handed its findings to the FSC last November for further deliberation.



With the inspections ongoing, the stock prices of the three Celltrion companies have been on a declining trend over the past three months, each losing over 25 percent from November.


Austin, Texas, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zoho Corporation, a global technology company offering the most comprehensive suite of business software applications in the industry, today announced that its cloud office and communications suite, Workplace, now serves more than 16 million users globally. The company attributes this substantial growth to increasing business demand for contextual applications with utmost standards for user privacy as well as rising costs from other collaboration platform providers. Since the start of the pandemic, Zoho Workplace adoption has accelerated as businesses of all sizes transitioned to digital-forward, remote work.

Record-Breaking Growth

In 2021, Zoho Workplace experienced 34% year-to-year growth, with more than 40% of the new migrations coming from Google and Microsoft. Momentum was strong across all segments, with the SMB customer base increasing 40%, Mid-Sized surging 36%, and Enterprises expanding by more than 20%. Within days of Google's announcement that it would be ending the free edition of Workspace in January 2022, Zoho's Workplace platform experienced a 120% increase in migrations from Google-hosted domains. Demand for Workplace has been driven by the harsh realities of the pandemic, which continues to impact the growth and revenue of businesses globally. Unforeseen hikes in operational costs to support collaboration is making it more difficult for these businesses to recover and thrive.

No Surprises

"Zoho is unique amongst its productivity suite competitors for not rolling out a cost increase for 2022, nor removing their freemium offerings," commented Thomas Randall, Senior Research Analyst at Info-Tech Research Group. "Other providers have justified price add-ons and increases to reflect the additional value they believe their customers have received over the pandemic for using their tools. Yet freemium offerings and price consistency have been central for many customers and businesses to stay afloat during lockdowns. Now that such offerings are in short supply, Zoho will likely see increased demand for their Workplace services as customers seek strong ROI for productivity and collaboration software.

"Persistent long term execution has been a hallmark of Zoho, and our investment in Zoho Workplace attests to that. The market has seen vendors offering hundreds of seats for free to gain market share and eventually pulling the plug," said Raju Vegesna, Chief Evangelist, Zoho Corporation. "All along, Zoho Workplace has been consistent in delivering customer value and continued high speed of innovation. Our ad-free approach and respect towards user privacy will be a pleasant surprise to users coming from alternative 'free' services."

Everything in One Place Pays Off

Contextual collaboration apps that are embedded within business applications provide additional benefits. "Using Zoho Workplace, we have been able to close 12% more business, as well as grow services with our largest client," said Marc Fishman, Director of Sales and Marketing for Call Center Sales Pro. "The ability for our agents and senior staff to seamlessly communicate without forcing multiple open tabs and systems being open allows CCSP to always speed-to-leadbeing able to keep us responsive to our customers and accountable to supervisors. This has been crucial to our success in navigating the forever shifting and fast-changing B2B space."

Pricing

Zoho Workplace is available in three editions: Standard is $3 per user per month. Premium is $6 per user per month. Zoho Mail is $1 per user per month. For more information, please visit: https://www.zoho.com/workplace/

Zoho Privacy Pledge

Zoho respects user privacy and does not have an ad-revenue model in any part of its business, including its free products. More than 75 million users around the world, across hundreds of thousands of companies, rely on Zoho everyday to run their businesses, including Zoho itself. For more information, please visit: https://www.zoho.com/privacy-commitment.html

About Zoho

With 50+ apps in nearly every major business category, including sales, marketing, customer support, accounting and back-office operations, and an array of productivity and collaboration tools, Zoho Corporation is one of the world's most prolific technology companies.

Zoho is privately held and profitable with more than 10,000 employees. Zoho is headquartered in Austin, Texas, with international headquarters in Chennai, India. Additional offices are in the United States, India, Japan, China, Canada, Singapore, Mexico, Australia, the Netherlands, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. For more information, please visit www.zoho.com/

Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are trademarks of their respective companies.

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Ukraine imported $8.2 billion worth of agricultural products in 2021, which is 19% more than in 2020, when imports amounted to $6.9 billion.

According to Ukrinform, this information was provided by Mykola Puhachov, deputy director of the National Scientific Centre "Institute of Agrarian Economics (IAE)," with reference to the State Customs Service, the IAE press service reports.

In 2021, the EU countries remained the main supplier of agricultural products to Ukraine. The total imports from these countries reached $4,217 million ($3,554 million in 2020). The share of products from the EU in the structure of last year's total agricultural imports was 51.6%.

Puhachov noted that although purchases in other regions grew, the absolute and relative rates of imports from there were much lower. Imports of food products from Asia amounted to $1,533 million (18.7% of the total imports), Latin America - $634 million (7.8%), the CIS countries - $343 million (4.2%), and Africa - $342 million (4.2%).

Since 2017, Poland has retained the first place in the ranking of major suppliers of agricultural products to Ukraine. Last year, it sold $883 million worth of agricultural products to Ukraine, which is almost 7% more than in 2020 ($828 million), according to Puhachov.

Among other main importers to Ukraine were Germany ($586 million); Italy ($586 million); Turkey ($520 million); France ($351 million); the Netherlands ($334 million); Indonesia ($328 million); Norway ($314 million); the United States ($288 million); Spain ($264 million). In total, these 10 countries accounted for more than 54% of total imports to Ukraine in 2021.

The expert noted that the major agricultural products imported to Ukraine were fish and seafood ($874 million); fruits, berries and nuts ($835 million); alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages ($719 million); tobacco products ($602 million); various food products ($559 million); cocoa products ($442 million); vegetable oils ($378 million); seeds and oleaginous fruits ($376 million). These products accounted for about 59% of the value of imports of agricultural products to Ukraine.

As Ukrinform reported, Ukraine exported $27.9 billion worth of agricultural products and foodstuffs in 2021, which is almost 25% more than the record figure of 2020 ($22.4 billion).

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Im very happy that President Biden understands how important it is to stand with the mayor of New York City right now, and with Americans all across the country who feel that public safety is a top concern, said Representative Kathleen Rice, a Democrat from Long Island. Her party recently sustained staggering losses on her home turf as Republicans hammered on potent, if sometimes misleading, arguments about crime.

Many national Democrats say Mr. Adams offers a template for connecting with voters who are concerned about both crime and curbing police misconduct. Whether that enthusiasm lasts will ultimately hinge on how he governs, and the mayor has already faced several prominent controversies, including over his hiring decisions.

For now, he appears to be forging a symbiotic relationship with Mr. Biden, with whom Mr. Adams said he has spoken four times since winning the primary last summer.

They are, as the president might say, simpatico in some of their relatively moderate political instincts. Their campaigns were powered by multiracial coalitions of working-class voters. And as Mr. Biden faces sinking approval ratings and a languishing legislative agenda, Mr. Adams has exuded warmth, referring to the president as my dude.

On the campaign trail, they both rejected the defund the police movement while pledging reforms of the criminal justice system.

To have a very radically practical way of dealing with gun violence as we deal with police reform, I think its an important message for the entire country, and I think the president shares that, Mr. Adams said in an interview. We had a real focus on reform of the criminal justice system, but while we were doing that reform, we took our eyes off the public safety ball.
Thousands of visitors to Cam Mountain in An Giang Province, southern Vietnam on Wednesday, the second day of the Lunar New Year(Tet) holiday, had to wait for hours to travel to the mountaintop in cable cars.

All the roads leading to the mountain area were crowded with tourists who wished to reach the summit, known as the Top of the Western Region of Vietnam, sitting at an altitude of 705 meters.

Besides cable cars, travelers can use motorbike taxis or tourist cars to reach the top of the mountain, located in Tinh Bien District.

The cable car fare is VND20,000 (US$0.88) higher than that in 2021, with a round trip costing VND200,000 ($8.8) for adults and VND100,000 ($4.4) for children.

The way-up tickets for adults and children are priced at VND140,000 ($6.19) and VND80,000 ($3.53), respectively, while way-down fares are VND120,000 ($5.31) and VND60,000 ($2.65).

My family is in the districts Tan Loi Commune, very close to this tourist area, but we had to wait for more than two hours to be taken to the top of the mountain in cable cars, complained Neang Soc Chol, a local woman.

I didnt expect this area to be so crowded.

Famous places in the area such as Big Buddha Pagoda, Maitreya Buddha Statue, Van Linh Pagoda, and Thuy Liem Lake Bed were filled with thousands of visitors and worshippers.

The mount has now changed very much, with many spectacular landscapes for travelers to choose to enjoy, Nguyen Van Sang, a resident from nearby Dong Thap Province, joyfully told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper while having a meal with his family by Thuy Liem Lake.

My family and I come here to pray for peace for our family and our loved ones, Sang said.

I especially wish that the [COVID-19] pandemic will end soon so that everyone can stay safe.

Police have arrested some people for snatching travelers necklaces in the crowds.

From the first day of the Tet holiday until Wednesday noon, the number of visitors to the mountain area has reached 14,000, said Dinh Van Chac, director of the Management Board of the Cam Mountain Tourist Area.

Before Tet, the board had renovated the entire site, including renewing more than 80 percent of the roads leading to the mountaintop and installing 26 surveillance cameras around Thuy Liem Lake to ensure safety and security.

Compared to the 2021 and 2022 Tet, the tourist numbers have increased by 1,200 and 900, respectively, Chac said.

Ly Thanh Sang, director of the cable car site, said his unit welcomed over 6,000 travellers on Wednesday and 5,000 visitors on Tuesday, the first day of the Lunar New Year holiday.

The number of cable car users has reached 70 percent of that in the 2021 Tet, a positive sign for the local tourism sector.

I hope the figures will continue to rise in the coming days, helping restore the tourist industry after a long time of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sang said.

A cable car is seen in the Cam Mountain Tourist Area in Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, Vietnam, February 2, 2022. Photo: Buu Dau / Tuoi Tre

This image shows a square at the Thuy Liem Lake area on the top of Cam Mountain in Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, Vietnam. Photo: Buu Dau / Tuoi Tre

Visitors gather at the Maitreya Buddha Statue area on the top of Cam Mountain in Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, Vietnam. Photo: Buu Dau / Tuoi Tre

This photo shows travelers feeding fish at the Den Bridge on the top of Cam Mountain in Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, Vietnam. Photo: Buu Dau / Tuoi Tre

Visitors are seen at a worship area on the top of Cam Mountain in Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, Vietnam. Photo: Buu Dau / Tuoi Tre

Visitors are seen at a pinwheel area on the top of Cam Mountain in Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, Vietnam. Photo: Buu Dau / Tuoi Tre

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A woman enters the Amnesty International Hong Kong office, after its announcement to close citing China-imposed national security law, in Hong Kong, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Reuters/Tyrone Siu)

Bipartisan Anger in Congress Over Amnesty International Calling Israel an Apartheid State

In an unusual show of unity, Democrats and Republicans in Congress are expressing anger and dismay in response to a report from Amnesty International (AI) that accuses Israel of imposing apartheid on Palestinians.

Amnesty Internationals new investigation shows that Israel imposes a system of oppression and domination against Palestinians across all areas under its control: in Israel, and the OPT [Occupied Palestinian Territories], and against Palestinian refugees, in order to benefit Jewish Israelis. This amounts to apartheid as prohibited in international law, AI stated in a report that was announced during a news conference in Jerusalem on Feb. 1.

Laws, policies and practices, which are intended to maintain a cruel system of control over Palestinians, have left them fragmented geographically and politically, frequently impoverished, and in a constant state of fear and insecurity, the AI report stated.

Apartheid is a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination. Its most often associated with South Africa, where it lasted for 46 years, ending in 1994, with F.W. de Klerk serving as the last apartheid leader and as a high official in the post-apartheid government headed by Nelson Mandela.

The AI declaration quickly drew condemnation from U.S. senators and representatives from both sides of the aisle.

I am deeply disturbed by Amnesty Internationals report calling Israel an apartheid state. This outrageous accusation belies history, facts, and common sense. Israel remains the only democracy in a region of autocrats and human rights abusers; one that values human rights, individual liberty and where protest, dissent, and civil society are vibrant, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) said in a statement.

By identifying Israels very establishment as the foundation for this accusation, Amnesty International has joined a growing chorus of vicious voices intent on denying Israels right to exist through slander, misinformation, and ignoring that both Israelis and Palestinians are responsible for their own fates.

Senate Republicans were equally outraged, with Sen. John Boozman of Arkansas declaring that Israel is a steadfast, strategically committed to the values of democracy and freedom. Unfortunately, it is still targeted with grossly biased and antisemitic attacks that threaten to expose it to further violence and hate.

Boozman called the AI report dangerous, ill-founded, and unfair, particularly given its failure to acknowledge the Jewish States security situation, which has required it to fend off terrorism and warfare from around the region and within its own borders throughout its existence.

Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) publicized his letter to AI Secretary General Agnes Callamard, writing: Israels Arab citizens have full rights and the ability to participate within the democratic process and have their voices heard and represented within Israels government.

Daines said the AI report serves as a blatant example of double standards being applied to Israel in an effort to delegitimize the government  I stand with Israel and Jewish people around the world, and urge you to retract this report immediately.

In the House, Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.) described AI as a so-called human rights organization that routinely hurls false accusations of oppression against Israel, ignores violent attacks on Israel from its hostile neighbors, and fans the flames of antisemitism around the world.

Zeldin, who is seeking the Republican nomination for New Yorks November gubernatorial election, called on all of the recipients of Amnestys campaign contributions, President [Joe] Biden, Vice President [Kamala] Harris, the Democratic National Committee, and all others, to immediately condemn this slander against our nations greatest ally, Israel, and return any and all contributions they have received from Amnesty International.

Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Mich.) in a statement rejected what she described as the persistent and growing effort to demonize Israel, the worlds only Jewish state and a close American ally, on the international stage.

Whether through the chronic bias displayed by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) or accusations put out by groups like Amnesty International, I stand opposed to efforts to unjustifiably brand Israel as an apartheid state, and I will always work to mitigate the threat of delegitimization against our closest friends in the Middle East.

Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid condemned the AI report in a tweet, claiming the organization was repeating lies spread by terrorist organizations.

In addition, Israel in the USA spokesman Elad Strohmeyer tweeted a link to a Wall Street Journal editorial that notes: Israel is a democracy that accords more rights to Arabs and Palestinians than does any other state in the region.

A spokesman in AIs London office didnt respond to The Epoch Times request for comment.
The IBelong campaign aims to end statelessness around the world in ten years (2024).  UNHCR

A new report by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency has found that vulnerable children in Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea and Ethiopia, including those of mixed parentage, with parents who have been displaced or are members of cross-border communities, and those who have been separated from their parents, are among persons most at risk of statelessness in the Horn of Africa.

The report, titled Statelessness and Citizenship in the Horn of Africa and authored by an expert on nationality and statelessness in Africa, Dr. Bronwen Manby, analyses nationality laws and their implementation in the four countries and highlights gaps that allow statelessness. In addition, it identifies the populations that may be stateless or at risk of statelessness and the reasons why this situation remains prevalent in the Horn of Africa and suggests measures that would address it at both national and regional levels.

Seeing the challenges faced by stateless people in this region is heart-breaking. Without legal identity documentation, children are robbed of opportunities to get quality education, and so many individuals are not able to make a meaningful impact on their societies. Refugees also face increasing risks of statelessness due to prolonged exile, said Clementine Nkweta-Salami, UNHCRs Bureau Director for the East and Horn of Africa and Great Lakes region. 

Yet statelessness is preventable and can be easily addressed. Governments can do this by making more efforts towards ensuring nationality laws are in line with international and African standards for prevention and reduction of statelessness, and ensure that peoples right to belong to a country is guaranteed, adds Nkweta-Salami.

Other groups at risk of statelessness are cross-border populations, including nomadic and pastoralist communities, as well as those affected by border disputes, long-term refugees, former refugees, and migrants without documentation of another nationality. In the Horn of Africa as in the rest of the continent, the vast majority of people affected by statelessness already reside in their countries of birth or are children of refugees born in countries of asylum.

The report also highlights two specific groups facing the risk of statelessness, including members of the various minority communities in Somalia, people of Eritrean descent and of mixed Eritrean-Ethiopian descent living in Ethiopia. In addition, long-term refugees and former refugees, and historical migrants without documentation of their country of origin are also likely to grapple with similar risks.

To identify and strengthen nationality systems and address the risk of statelessness, the report suggested nine priorities for states as well as regional bodies to consider. Among them is the accession to international treaties that provide for the reduction of statelessness, and the protection of stateless persons. In addition, states should incorporate relevant measures required by these treaties into national laws, especially the removal of discriminative provisions in laws and the insertion of complete legal safeguards to prevent childhood statelessness.

Other recommendations include improving access to nationality pathways particularly for long-term refugees, former refugees, stateless people, and persons of undetermined nationality, as well as universal birth registration for all persons born in the territory of a state. States are also encouraged to support the adoption of the Protocol to the African Charter on Peoples and Human Rights on the Specific Aspects to the Right to a Nationality and the Eradication of Statelessness in Africa.

There are several good examples from East Africa on how statelessness can be addressed and UNHCR commends those efforts. However, there is still much more to be done both by national governments and regional organizations. UNHCR stands ready to support these efforts to fully put an end to this situation, said Nkweta-Salami.

This report was first launched in December 2021 at the Regional Protection and Solutions Dialogue jointly organized by UNHCR and regional bodies, the East African Community (EAC) and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), in which member states that informed the report participated. It is the fourth in a series commissioned by UNHCR on nationality and statelessness in West, East and Southern Africa. The other three reports have covered the member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS); the East African Community (EAC); and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

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AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Success continues for Steadily, America's top-rated landlord insurance company, as it today announces remarkable 7000% growth in gross written premium in 2021. The growth is supported by a 600% increase in capital raised with the announcement of Steadily's $27.2M Series A round in 2021, and a 400% increase in new employees onboarded in 2021 to accelerate production in all areas of the company.

Steadily has built a reputation for making landlord insurance fast, easy, and affordable, which has resulted in rapid growth. Pairing landlord insurance with beautiful design and intuitive tech, the delightful user experience has earned Steadily 4.8 out of 5 star-rating and glowing recommendations from customers.

"We've seen tremendous growth at Steadily, and attribute this success to the dedication and drive of our talented team and partners" says President and Founder, Darren Nix. "As landlords ourselves, we understand the unique needs of rental property owners, and have built a team of specialists whose core focus is serving the 17 million individual landlords across the US. From our knowledgeable sales agents, to our engineering team and UI designers, everyone at Steadily is an expert in their field."

Employee Headcount Increases 400% To Support Rapid Growth

Throughout 2021, Steadily welcomed 26 new employees located across 14 states, including three senior hires: VP of Underwriting, VP of Marketing, and VP of Sales. Steadily maintains a high-performing company culture, attracting the best talent within the industry across North America. Steadily has robust hiring plans for 2022 and expects to more than double its existing headcount this year at its dual headquarters in Lenexa, KS and Austin, TX, and remotely across the United States.

Continued Innovation To Perfect the Landlord Insurance Experience

Steadily has built an intuitive digital platform to let landlords get an insurance quote online in minutes, 24/7, from the palm of their hand in all 50 states. The meticulously designed mobile-first experience pre-fills many data points like property size and year of construction. Next, the company plans to expand its mobile-first experience with new tech such as embedded IoT devices to prevent property damage from happening in the first place. These applications will help Steadily reduce the volume and severity of future claims as well as provide peace of mind to landlords. Steadily's advanced data analytics will help claims get paid faster, reduce the magnitude of property damage claims and ultimately lower the cost of insurance to customers.

About Steadily

Steadily was created by industry experts to offer the best landlord insurance service and a top-rated customer experience from quote request to claim resolution. Mobile-first and direct-to-consumer, Steadily is poised to rapidly remake the insurance segment. The company is dual headquartered in Austin, Texas and Overland Park, KS., and is backed by investors including Matrix Partners, Zigg Capital, Next Coast Ventures, Nine Four Ventures, and SV Angel. Learn more at https://www.steadily.com and stay in touch @SteadilyInsure and Facebook.com/SteadilyInsurance.

For press inquiries or more information, please contact: press@steadily.com | 737-900-3554

Related Images











Image 1: Steadily | Landlord Insurance





Steadily offers fast, affordable landlord insurance nationwide.









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Pune, India, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global pet insurance market size is projected to reach USD 11.25 billion by 2026. The increasing pet adoption in leading countries across the world will have a direct impact on the growth of the market.

Key Industry Developments:

September 2019: Franklin Madison announced it plans to initiate pet insurance programs for banks and credit unions. The company partnered with A-rated carrier Crum & Forster Pet Insurance Group, to offer another valuable insurance program to their consumers.

The pet insurance market will benefit from the increasing pet adoption in leading countries across the world. Pet insurance refers to a policy that covers medical as well as accidental factors that is associated with the pets.

The emphasis on the well-being and health of pets, by private as well as government organizations will create several growth opportunities.

The presence of several private organizations offering premium insurance policies will have a positive impact on the growth of the market in the forthcoming years.

Several companies are focused on offering novel services as well as concessions in a bid to establishing a stronghold in the market. These factors will aid the growth of the market in the coming years.





Get Sample PDF Brochure: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/pet-insurance-market-101956





Increasing Number of Company Mergers and Collaborations to Aid Market Growth

The report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the growth of the market in recent years. It highlights a few of the leading market drivers and analyzes their impact on the market. Among all factors, the increasing number of company mergers and collaborations have had a positive impact on market growth.

In October 2019, Petplan, a leading pet insurance provider, announced that it has been acquired by Warnbug Pincus. Warnbug is a leading private equity firm that mainly focuses on growth-oriented investing. With this acquisition, the company will look to outperform its counterparts and in doing so, establish a strong presence in the market. The report highlights a few of the other company mergers that have graced the market in recent years and gauges their impact on the market.





To get to know more about the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market,

Please Visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/pet-insurance-market-101956





Geographical Analysis:

North America (The U.S. and Canada)

Europe (U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Scandinavia, and the Rest of Europe)

Asia Pacific (Japan, China, India, Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Rest of Asia Pacific)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and the Rest of Latin America)

The Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC, and the Rest of the Middle East & Africa)

Europe to Emerge Dominant; Influx of Start-ups to Aid Growth

The report analyzes the ongoing pet insurance market trends across North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa. Among these regions, the market in Europe generated the highest market revenue in 2018. Europe is projected to dominate the market in the coming years driven by the increasing number of start-ups in several countries across this region. The increasing number of government initiatives to promote animal wellness and health, coupled with encouragement for pet adoption, will aid the growth of the market in this region. Besides Europe, the market in North America will exhibit considerable CAGR. As of 2018, the market in North America was worth USD 1.42 billion and this value is likely to increase further in the coming years.





Speak To Our Analyst: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/pet-insurance-market-101956





A few of the Key companies that are operating in the global market include:

Trupanion

Anicom Holdings

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company

ASPCA

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, LLC.

Embrace Pet Insurance Agency, LLC

Figo Pet Insurance LLC.

Agria Pet Insurance Ltd

24PetWatch

Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC.





About Us:

Fortune Business Insights delivers accurate data and innovative corporate analysis, helping organizations of all sizes make appropriate decisions. We tailor novel solutions for our clients, assisting them to address various challenges distinct to their businesses. Our aim is to empower them with holistic market intelligence, providing a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

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UK : +44 2071 939123

APAC : +91 744 740 1245
Almost 200 pilot whales have died after a pod of 230 were found stranded on the west coast of Tasmania in Australia. The local government said 32 surviving whales have since been rescued and released into deep water. The incident occurred just days after 14 sperm whales were found dead on the states north coast. In 2020, more than 380 whales died in the countrys worst mass stranding at the same location. Its unclear what causes mass strandings, but pilot whales are known to travel in large groups

Sep 22, 2022 07:32 PM
SINGAPORE, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, AssetOwner is relaunching its investor knowledge-sharing platform as Quidroom. The new name forms part of its growth strategy to expand its user base and tap into the greater investor community.

Social networking has fundamentally changed the way people invest, says Quidroom CEO Pravin Raveendran. Accelerated by the pandemic, investor networking has evolved from a traditional, face-to-face environment to one that is more spontaneous and virtual. But Pravin does not believe that existing social media channels are fit for purpose. And it is this gap that Quidroom aims to bridge for the sophisticated investor community.

Since its beta launch as AssetOwner in August 2020, the social collaboration platform has grown a userbase of investment professionals that cumulatively manage over US$8 trillion in AUM for pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, family offices and other asset owners. To date, the platform has succeeded in enabling these investors to share meaningful investment information online in a spontaneous but targeted way. In the next stage of the company's growth, and under its new name reflecting the broader investor user base, Quidroom will focus on removing existing channel fragmentation for connectivity in the investment industry and for high-net-worth individuals globally.

"Against an economic backdrop of volatility and rising uncertainty, global diversification has never been as important," says Pravin. "It is becoming essential for institutional and accredited investors to assess valuations and current and future risk/return trade-offs offered by different asset classes and securities across the world."

A sure-fire way to achieve this, according to Pravin, is by building up a global network of peers who share comparable investment challenges, but by contrast have experience in different economic and financial market climates, enabling them to provide fresh insights when sharing their perspectives on asset classes and individual securities.

"While social media has become a popular way for investors to research new investing ideas and network with peers, most social platforms make it hard to cut through the noise of the daily grind," he says. "Not to mention their limitations on developing real connections and open dialogue due to privacy or compliance concerns."

Working towards a future that balances out the negatives of current social networks, Quidroom is a dedicated, investor social network that enables investor peers to connect and network with each other like never before in a secure, neutral and unbiased environment, removing the need to sift through sales pitches or irrelevant social feeds.

"By isolating the investor in you from the professional avatar you show in LinkedIn, the alumni avatar you display in your university network or the family-and-friends avatar you reveal on your personal channels, we enable our users to focus on becoming better investors. A foreword warning, in case you have not joined Quidroom yet, you may want to spend a minute unlearning or disassociating yourself with your biases on how 'networking' and 'privacy' has worked for you in traditional social networks, as this will not be like anything you have ever experienced before."

As part of the relaunch, and in keeping with its commitment to facilitate meaningful, informal investor collaboration online, Quidroom is hosting an inaugural 'unconference' on 22-24 February 2022, open to all registered Quidroom users.

This is a new concept for investors used to attending formally structured conferences over a day or two. Pravin says the unconference movement is gaining traction in other industries thanks to accelerated global digitalization, increasing popularity of hybrid/remote working and appetite for more innovative, flexible and worthwhile interactions with experts in their respective fields.

The Unconferenced Investor 2022 is an unstructured and participant-driven online event with no set agenda, where all participants have a voice. It encourages participants to vote for discussion topics upon registration and nominate fellow investment experts to create 'virtual rooms' in Quidroom that allow for open conversation before the LIVE session and even after.

"The best part about the unconference is that even when it ends, participants remain connected to relevant experts and investors and are able to exchange knowledge perpetually," says Pravin.

Investors interested in joining The Unconferenced Investor 2022 may register for free by clicking here. Those who register will receive instant access to Quidroom, normally invite-only.

About Quidroom

Quidroom, formerly known as AssetOwner, is where sophisticated investors connect and exchange knowledge with one another based on common interests.

Wander the proverbial halls of Quidroom and discover rooms with hundreds of investors matching your interests. You're free to quietly enter and exit rooms at your leisure. Choose to join the conversation with other investors or simply be a fly on the wall and listen in. It's entirely up to you.

When you're ready to stake a claim, start an investor community! Start a room to share your insights, try your hand at incepting ideas, or just simply share today's market headlines.

Quidroom is trusted by investors collectively managing US$ 8.2 trillion and has US$1 million in pre-seed funding.

SOURCE Quidroom
One needs no sectarian or contentious conception of the common good to think that America in 2022 desperately needs healing of the public community. Americans life expectancy is now roughly five years below that of people in comparable countries. Overdosing, rural despair and politicized anger are not hallmarks of a flourishing community in any reasonable view of what the common good means. Stable families, material security, dignified work and a sense of social harmony are objectively good for all. We may disagree on how precisely to achieve these ends, but denying they are something to aspire to as a community is irrational, and the laws should be interpreted accordingly. In hard cases, where legal sources are conflicting, ambiguous or unclear, the common good and its subsidiary ideals serve as principles for interpreting the laws.

American judges in the classical legal tradition applied the common good with a healthy measure of deference to the reasonable decisions of public authorities. In important cases from the past few decades, this approach would have changed both reasoning and outcomes. One example is the 2002 case Ashcroft v. Free Speech Coalition, in which Justice Anthony Kennedy, writing for a majority, struck down a federal law that barred the creation of virtual child pornography  images of people who appear to be minors, engaging in sexually explicit conduct, that were generated by computer or by adult actors posing as children. Justice Kennedy wrote that the law was overbroad because it prohibited speech that records no crime and creates no victims by its production. This neglects the diffuse harms to the community and the broader corrosion of the social fabric that occur when virtual child pornography is available. The law is a teacher of virtue, and it should not teach that animated or simulated child porn is somehow a victimless crime.

Likewise, the court erred in the recent decision in National Federation of Independent Business v. Department of Labor that, in effect, barred the Occupational Safety and Health Administration from requiring vaccination (or a test-and-mask regimen) in large workplaces. The safeguarding of public health is a core duty of governance, and Supreme Court precedent long ago established that a community has the right to protect itself against an epidemic of disease which threatens the safety of its members. The court held that because the relevant laws gave OSHA the power to regulate workplace safety specifically, it could not regulate more general public health risks, like Covid, that also have important effects in and through the workplace  a libertarian non sequitur. The fear of rule by unelected bureaucrats in government agencies does not justify actual rule by unelected bureaucrats on the bench.

Finally, the court also erred in the landmark 1992 decision in Lujan v. Defenders of Wildlife, which required plaintiffs to show a personal injury in fact in order to challenge inadequate enforcement of environmental laws in federal court  even if, as the Court recently clarified, statutes create a right to sue. This constitutional requirement of a private stake to bring suit is backward. The law should encourage, not hamper, those who wish to articulate public interests in legal proceedings, especially where the health of the natural environment is at stake  the ultimate common good.

All officials are duty bound to consider the common good. As Justice Antonin Scalia once put it, governmental decisions are subject to the fundamental constraint that the decision must be taken in order to further a public purpose rather than a purely private interest. Common-good constitutionalism urges that this principle be remembered and renewed to heal the ills of our law. One hopes that Justice Breyers replacement can transcend the tired opposition of progressivism and originalism, and revive the orientation to the common good that was once central to the American legal tradition.

Adrian Vermeule is the Ralph S. Tyler Jr. professor of constitutional law at Harvard and the author of the forthcoming book Common Good Constitutionalism.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 1, 2022) - ION Energy Ltd. (TSXV: ION) (OTCQB: IONGF) (FSE: 5YB) ("ION") is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into a binding term sheet (the "Term Sheet") which sets out the terms for an exploration joint venture (the "Joint Venture") with Aranjin Resources Ltd. ("Aranjin") (TSXV: ARJN). The Joint Venture allows for both companies to grant one another reciprocal exploration rights to their respective exploration licences within Mongolia.

Both ION and Aranjin will leverage one another's expertise in their respective metals, with Aranjin being granted a right to explore ION's properties for base metals (including copper, lead, zinc, nickel, cobalt and associated metals), and ION being granted a right to explore Aranjin's properties for lithium. This structured approach is aimed at enlarging their exploration area within the mineral-rich regions of Mongolia, thus ensuring that both ION and Aranjin maximize their chances of carrying a property to the development stage.

The area covered by the Joint Venture consists of all mineral rights in Mongolia currently held by both ION and Aranjin, which consists of the Sharga Project, the Bayan Under Project, the Baruun Tal Project (pending final purchase), the Baavhai Uul Project, the Urgakh Naran Project and all mineral rights acquired by each of them in Mongolia, after the date of entering into the Joint Venture.

In addition to this JV announcement, ION Energy is pleased to provide an update on Urgakh Naran's exploration plans, and its Baavhai Uul drilling program, that not only highlights its lithium brine assets but additional battery metals.

Baavhai Uul Highlights:

Maiden auger drill program was completed in the fall of 2021 at ION's Baavhai Uul (BU) project and included 222 auger holes for a total of 1,304.5 meters; only 50% of the assay samples have been returned;

Initial drilling results are highly encouraging with a new Copper and Nickel discovery at the center of the Baavhai Uul licence;

Drill hole AU-83 returned results of up to 2,150 ppm Nickel from 5.0 to 5.5m depth in clay samples and average 202 ppm Nickel. Numerous auger holes with over 200 ppm and up to 480 ppm Nickel were assayed in the eastern area of the licence and these will be subject to follow-up infill drilling programs;

Drill hole AU-85 returned up to 570 ppm Copper from 2.5-3m depth and averaged 103 ppm Copper. seven auger holes that were drilled in the eastern part of the licence returned over 100 ppm Copper;

The copper geochemical anomaly is over 4 sq km in size and the Nickel Geochem anomaly is over 2 sq km in size, anomalies located in the central part of the licence overlap each other;

The White Wolf Lithium discovery made at Baavhai Uul with a maximum grade of 1,502 ppm identified in December 2021, is significantly higher than the 811 ppm grade seen at Baavhai Uul, prior to ION's acquisition of the asset;

Hydrogeological sampling and advanced lithium exploration techniques to commence on Baavhai Uul in April 2022; and

Maiden exploration at Urgakh Naran is expected to commence in the coming weeks.

Auger holes were drilled to a maximum depth of six meters with samples being collected every 0.5 meter and were located over one kilometer apart. This represented a broad pass of the licence prospectively. The remaining results from this drilling program are expected before the end of February 2022.







Figure 1: Copper Anomalies at Baavhai Uul (ION Energy Ltd.)

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6906/112250_bb60c62ca4d82823_002full.jpg







Figure 2: Nickel Anomalies at Baavhai Uul (ION Energy Ltd).

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6906/112250_bb60c62ca4d82823_003full.jpg







Figure 3: Lithium grades obtained from Baavhai Uul (ION Energy Ltd.)

To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6906/112250_bb60c62ca4d82823_004full.jpg

The drilling results further validate the opportunity for both companies to further maximize battery metals exploration potential across Mongolia.

Joint Venture Highlights

ION and Aranjin will grant each other a reciprocal right to explore one another's properties, with Aranjin earning an 80% interest and ION earning a 20% interest in all base metal projects discovered on ION's properties, and ION earning an 80% interest and Aranjin earning a 20% interest in all lithium projects discovered on Aranjin's properties, subject to existing royalties.

If a Party has prepared a Feasibility Study (as defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum) in respect of a deposit on a licence of the other Party, and the Party wishes to undertake development of the deposit (the " Development Project "), the Parties shall negotiate a separate joint venture or similar agreement governing the development and operation of the Development Project, with the initial participating interest being 80% for the Party initiating the Development Project, and 20% for the other Party.

"), the Parties shall negotiate a separate joint venture or similar agreement governing the development and operation of the Development Project, with the initial participating interest being 80% for the Party initiating the Development Project, and 20% for the other Party. Each Party will bear their own costs of exploration on the properties of the other Party, with ION obligated to expend at least USD$500,000 and Aranjin USD$3,000,000 over the three (3) years commencing from the date of the Term Sheet. Aranjin shall be entitled to satisfy any shortfall of its required expenditures in cash up to USD$2,500,000.

If a Party fails to prepare a Feasibility Study in respect of a deposit on the licence of the other Party within five (5) years of the date of the Term Sheet, the rights of the non-performing Party under the Term Sheet will be terminated.

Aranjin shall appoint Ali Haji, Chief Executive Officer of ION, to the board of directors of Aranjin, and further appoint him as President and Chief Executive Officer of Aranjin.

Matthew Wood will resign as President and Chief Executive Officer of Aranjin and continue to act as Executive Chairman of Aranjin.

Aranjin intends to issue 1% of the outstanding common shares to Mr. Haji as an inducement to act as President and CEO of Aranjin. The common shares issued to Mr. Haji will be subject to a hold period of four months and a day.

Ali Haji, President and CEO of ION and Aranjin, commented: "This joint-venture allows for ION Energy to work alongside Aranjin resources on two very important elements that are required for the clean, green energy revolution. The synergistic makeup of each company will allow for this joint-venture to represent the largest lithium and copper exploration licence holders in Mongolia, forge a solid battery metals presence in Asia's supply chain, and help drive the electrification of the future. We look forward to working together and receiving the balance of our exploration results."

Matthew Wood, Executive Chairman of Aranjin noted: "With the promising early results and evidence of copper at the Baahvai Uul Project we are excited to expand our portfolio of prospective copper assets. Partnering with ION allows us to diversify Aranjin's asset footprint and our exploration spend."

Final approval of the Joint Venture and the share issuance to Mr. Haji remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

About ION Energy Ltd.

ION Energy Ltd. is committed to exploring and developing Mongolia's lithium salars, which includes the Baavhai Uul and Urgakh Naran Project. ION's flagship, 81,000+ hectare Baavhai Uul lithium brine project, represents the largest and first lithium brine exploration licence awarded in Mongolia. ION Energy is well-poised to be a key player in the clean energy revolution, positioned well to service the world's increased demand for lithium. Information about the Company is available on its website, www.ionenergy.ca, or under its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

About Aranjin Resources Ltd.

Aranjin Resources Ltd. is committed to exploring and developing its prospective copper projects, the Sharga Project, the Bayan Under Project and the Baruun Tal Project (pending final purchase) located in Mongolia. Information about the Company is available on its website, www.aranjinresources.com, or under its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Contact Information

ION Energy Ltd.

Siloni Waraich

Media Relations

+1 416-432-4920

[email protected]

Cautionary Statements

Certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking information or statements under applicable securities legislation and rules. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the anticipated completion of the Joint Venture, contemplated expenditures of the Parties, anticipated development of mineral projects into the exploitation phase, appointments of certain executives and board members, issuances of common shares of Aranjin in connection with the appointment of Mr. Haji, and completion of acquisitions. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of ION and/or Aranjin to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to: (i) any inability of the parties to satisfy the conditions to the completion of the Joint Venture on acceptable terms or at all; (ii) any inability to effect the acquisition of any mineral projects, or produce a favorable feasibility study; (iii) any inability to effect appointments of individuals to the board or management of Aranjin; (iv) any inability to effect a share issuance to Ali Haji, including due to a failure to obtain the requisite regulatory approvals; and (v) receipt of necessary domestic and foreign stock exchange, court, shareholder, and other regulatory approvals. Although management of each of ION and Aranjin has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither party will update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. The parties caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and it does not undertake any obligation to revise and disseminate forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, or to reflect the occurrence of or non-occurrence of any events.

This press release is not and is not to be construed in any way as, an offer to buy or sell securities in the United States. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the ION or Aranjin common shares, nor shall there be any offer or sale of the ION or Aranjin common shares in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Neither the TSX, the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX and 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/112250
Valentine Week 2022 is round the corner, and everyone from couples to singles, are searching for Valentine Week 2022 date sheet! Yes, it is time to download Valentine Week 2022 date sheet, and the complete calendar would include dates of Rose Day 2022, Propose Day 2022, Chocolate Day 2022, Teddy Day 2022, Promise Day 2022, Hug Day 2022, Kiss Day 2022, Valentine's Day 2022. It will be immediately followed by Anti-Valentine Week days such as Slap Day, Kick Day, Perfume Day, Flirting Day, Confession Day, Missing Day and Break-Up Day! Valentine Week 2022 Date Sheet & Full List Image for Download Online: Get Calendar To Know Dates From Rose Day, Propose Day, Kiss Day to Valentines Day.

Here comes the month of love, happiness, and merriment. February may be the shortest month of the year but people are already gearing up to celebrate the week of endearment and sweet nothings. Not only Valentine's Day, but the days leading to it and after that, i.e., Valentine Week and Anti-Valentine Week also hold much significance. But for that one would need to know the full list of Valentine Week 2022 from February 7 until February 21. February 2022 Holidays Calendar With Festivals & Events: Vasant Panchami, Valentines Day, Chinese New Year; Know All Important Dates and List of Indian Bank Holidays for the Month.

Valentine Week 2022 will be all about showering love, gifts, and warm messages with your better halves. This special week is not just celebrated by couples but the period is a good chance to express your feelings with your love interest in a creative way. The seven days of adoration is widely observed in pubs, malls, with different public areas drenched in red decoration with hearts, roses, and scarlet decorations. You can download Valentine and Anti-Valentine Week 2022 full list in PDF format online.

But what if you are far away from the concept of love, intimacy, and affection? If you are single and find the idea of Valentines day futile, don't fret because Anti-Valentine week is also a part of the list. Interestingly, many people celebrate this week with a lot of excitement. The week is especially for those fellows who are not lucky in love. So, if you also keep on forgetting which day is celebrated on what date. We've got you covered. Below is the list of Valentine's week which will start on Monday, 7th February.

Valentine Week 2022 Datesheet

Date Day Valentine Week Days 7 Feb Monday Rose Day 8 Feb Tuesday Propose Day 9 Feb Wednesday Chocolate Day 10 Feb Thursday Teddy Day 11 Feb Friday Promise Day 12 Feb Saturday Hug Day 13 Feb Sunday Kiss Day 14 Feb Monday Valentines Day

Anti-Valentine Week 2022 Datesheet

Date Day Anti-Valentine Week Days 15 Feb Tuesday Slap Day 16 Feb Wednesday Kick Day 17 Feb Thursday Perfume Day 18 Feb Friday Flirting Day 19 Feb Saturday Confession Day 20 Feb Sunday Missing Day 21 Feb Monday Break-Up Day

Valentine's Day is celebrated across the globe in memory of a 3rd century Roman saint, Saint Valentine. It was originated as a Christian feast day honouring one or two early Christian martyrs named Saint Valentine. Valentine's week can also be celebrated with family and friends as sharing love and compassion is the absolute goal. Clearly, Anti-Valentine week also has some days for people who want to approach their romantic interest. So, get ready for the romantic merrymaking!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 03, 2022 02:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).




Ahn Cheol-soo, front, the presidential candidate of the minor opposition conservative People's Party, wears a medical gown before beginning volunteer work at a COVID-19 testing station in a downtown Seoul community health center, Wednesday. Ahn was joined by his wife Kim Mi-kyung, behind him, who also volunteered her medical services and their daughter Ahn Surl-hee, back, who volunteered in an administrative capacity. Joint Press Corps



By Jung Da-min



Ahn Cheol-soo, the presidential candidate of the minor opposition conservative People's Party, found a new campaign tactic recently that can help garner more attention in the presidential race: Unlike his opponents, particularly the two frontrunners who are reeling from allegations surrounding their spouses, he has no family members embroiled in controversies.



Ahn recently has put much emphasis on criticizing the two mainstream rivals  Lee Jae-myung of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) and Yoon Suk-yeol of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP)  as they have faced allegations of illegal or immoral behavior against themselves and their family members.



"They are the prototypes of unqualified candidates. If someone asks others to vote for those flawed candidates, I think this is a sort of abuse. No one can force voters to choose between two flawed candidates," Ahn was quoted as saying in a statement released by his party on Thursday.



"Now is the time for the people to find the right candidate who does not lie to them, who is capable and has a global mindset."





People's Party presidential candidate Ahn Cheol-soo's wife Kim Mi-kyung, right, and daughter Ahn Surl-hee wave to traffic in the Gwanghwamun area of central Seoul, Thursday. Yonhap
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Maria Montoro Edwards, Ph.D., president & CEO of Maternal and Family Health Services, Inc., as the 2022 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient.

The ATHENA Award, sponsored locally by Michael A. Barbetti LLC Certified Public Accountants, honors an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills. Dr. Edwards embodies these characteristics whole-heartedly.

For more than 25 years Edwards has made significant strides as a non-profit and education leader, including success in securing, implementing, and stewarding public and private funding. In 2018, she was instrumental in connecting community partners and securing funding for Healthy MOMS (Maternal Opiate Medical Support) program in support of neonatal abstinence syndrome  which has served more than 100 expectant and new mothers across the region.

Bob Durkin, president, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Maria Montoro Edwards, Ph.D., president & CEO, Maternal and Family Health Services and 2022 ATHENA Award recipient; Mari Potis, director of membership and events, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce.

At her current role as president of Maternal and Family Health Services, she is unafraid to meet the needs of the communitys most underserved members through innovation. She is currently working to bring new care models to our region for pregnancy and depression. She leads with a focus on equity and inclusion as the organization meets changing community needs and is connecting with sta and community members to nd new opportunities to have a positive impact on women, children, and families.

Edwards has been involved with more than 25 organizations locally for over 15 years.

Currently, she serves on the boards for the Community Intervention Center, NEPA Rainbow Alliance, and Northeast Pennsylvania Nonprofit Community Assistance Center.

She was also among those honored at the 2021 IHM Sisters Celebration for her work in the community and is the 2021 recipient of the Women in Philanthropy Margaretta Belin Chamberlin award.

Story continues

Dr. Montoro Edwards is no doubt making positive and inspiring advances in the local non-profit sector and to the care of individuals in our community who need it most, says Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. We commend her for the work she has done so far and congratulate her as the 2022 recipient of this prestigious award.

The ATHENA Award will be presented to Edwards at the Chambers International Womens Day Luncheon on March 8, held at Marywood University and sponsored by Honesdale National Bank. Tickets can be purchased at scrantonchamber.com.

The ATHENA Award was first presented in 1982 in Lansing, Michigan and has grown to include presentations to more than 5,000 individuals in hundreds of cities in the United States as well as in Canada, China, Russia and the United Kingdom. The award takes the form of a hand-cast bronze sculpture symbolizing the strength, courage and wisdom of the recipient.

The ATHENA Award Program is nationally underwritten by General Motors and National City Bank.

This article originally appeared on Tri-County Independent: Greater Scranton Chamber names Dr. Maria Edwards ATHENA winner
Democratic Party of Korea presidential candidate, Lee Jae-myung, left, and his wife, Kim Hye-kyung, meet with local residents of Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, during Korea's Lunar New Year holiday on Feb. 1. Newsis



DPK presidential candidate apologizes as wife's past actions deal blow to his campaign



By Ko Dong-hwan



Kim Keon-hee, the wife of Yoon Suk-yeol, the presidential candidate of the main opposition People Power Party, caused a controversy following the release of recordings of her private phone conversations with a YouTuber, along with allegations that she falsified the credentials on her resume to get a university teaching position. Now, the attention has shifted to the wife of the ruling party's candidate for alleged abuse of power.



Kim Hye-kyung, the wife of ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) presidential candidate, Lee Jae-myung, issued an apology on Wednesday through the party over allegations that she had ordered public officials at the Gyeonggi Provincial Government Office to run personal errands for her using the office's money in 2021. On Wednesday, a fresh allegation was made that she used her husband's corporate card to purchase beef for her family.



The allegations first surfaced last month when TV broadcaster SBS reported that a male official from the secretarial department at the office of the provincial government had been repeatedly ordered by his superior in the general affairs department  identified only by her last name of Bae  to run Kim's personal errands. According to SBS, the official purchased meat from a butcher, sushi and other foods or cooking ingredients and delivered them to Kim's home in Bundang District, Seongnam City, on multiple occasions. For each errand, he first paid using her own credit card and later canceled the transaction, repaying with the government office's credit card.



This secretarial department official was also ordered by Bae in June to take care of Lee's eldest son, who was discharged from a hospital, and to pay the medical bill with the office's credit card. In November, he was also ordered to take one of Lee's suits to a dry cleaner. On another occasion, Bae ordered the official to purchase prescription drugs for Kim.



The official ran the errands while Lee was governor of Gyeonggi Province  a title he held from 2018 to last October, when he quit to run in the presidential election.



"Everything was my fault, and I humbly apologize to all Korean citizens for having aroused concern," Kim said in her apology. She claimed that she and Bae were friends and that she had received Bae's help from time to time, but that it wasn't on a consistent basis. She regretted not having been more careful to separate the personal and public sides of her life.



Kim said she sympathized with the pain of the secretarial department official who ran errands on her behalf, adding that she was not supposed to let him do that for her.



Earlier on Feb. 2, Bae also made an apology to both the public and provincial government officials regarding her involvement in the abuse of government funds. She said that ordering the secretarial department official to run personal errands for Kim was her own decision, not Kim's or anyone else's.



Bae had previously denied ordering any personal errands for Kim when the allegations first surfaced last month.



"I have known Kim and candidate Lee for a long time and I guess I considered it my excuse to inadvertently order the secretarial department official around to make myself look good to the couple," Bae said, admitting that her actions were unethical.





Kim Keon-hee, the wife of the People Power Party's presidential candidate, Yoon Suk-yeol, apologizes to the public at the party's office in Yeouido, Seoul, Dec. 26, 2021, over having falsified her credentials on her resume  a scandal that irked the public. Newsis
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Wednesday that the European military commitment in Mali, where the ruling junta has just expelled the French ambassador, should be reassessed.

In view of the latest measures taken by the Malian government, we must honestly ask ourselves if the conditions for the success of our common commitment are still met. Our commitment is not an end in itself, Baerbock said in an interview with the daily Suddeutsche Zeitung.

We are in close consultation with our international partners and the European Union, especially France, on how we will continue our commitment on the ground, she said.

We will also discuss these important issues with the Malian government in the coming days, she added.

A spokesman for her ministry told a regular press conference in Berlin that State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Katja Keul would be going to Mali on Thursday to meet German soldiers, government representatives and civil society.

Ms. Baerbock was reacting to the escalation of tensions in recent weeks between Mali and France, its former colonial power.

The Malian authorities, dominated by the military that seized power in August 2020, decided on Monday to expel the French ambassador.

In response, Paris announced that it would discuss within two weeks with its European partners the future of the European military presence in the country. France has been engaged there since 2013, notably with the Barkhane force, to fight jihadism.

The commitment in Mali is guided by long-term objectives, however, assured the German minister, for whom it is a matter of ensuring the security of people, stability and development of the country.
By Joseph S. Nye





CAMBRIDGE  Was the current crisis in Ukraine caused by a lack of realism in U.S. foreign policy? According to some analysts, the liberal desire to spread democracy is what drove NATO's expansion up to Russia's borders, causing Russian President Vladimir Putin to feel increasingly threatened.



Viewed from this perspective, it is not surprising that he would respond by demanding a sphere of influence analogous to what the United States once claimed in Latin America with its Monroe Doctrine.



But there is a problem with this realist argument: NATO's 2008 decision (heavily promoted by the George W. Bush administration) to invite Georgia and Ukraine eventually to join the alliance can hardly be called liberal, nor was it driven by liberals.



In making such arguments, realists point to the aftermath of World War I, when U.S. President Woodrow Wilson's liberalism contributed to a legalistic and idealist foreign policy that ultimately failed to prevent World War II.



Accordingly, in the 1940s, scholars such as Hans Morgenthau and diplomats like George Kennan warned Americans that they must henceforth base their foreign policy on realism.



As Morgenthau explained in 1948, a "state has no right to let its moral disapprobation of the infringement of liberty get in the way of successful political action."



Or, in the more recent words of the University of Chicago political scientist John Mearsheimer: "States operate in a self-help world in which the best way to survive is to be as powerful as possible, even if that requires pursuing ruthless policies. That is not a pretty story, but there is no better alternative if survival is a country's paramount goal."



In a famous historical example of this approach, Winston Churchill, in 1940, ordered an attack on French naval vessels, killing some 1,300 of Britain's allies rather than letting the fleet fall into Hitler's hands. Churchill also authorized the bombing of German civilian targets.



But while many observers justified these decisions when Britain's survival was at stake, they condemned the February 1945 fire-bombing of Dresden, because victory in Europe was already assured at that point.



Churchill could invoke the necessity of survival to justify overriding moral rules in the early days of the war, but he was wrong to continue to do so later, when survival was not in doubt.



In general, such dire straits are rare, and most leaders are eclectic in selecting the mental maps with which they navigate the world. Hence, when Donald Trump was asked to explain his mild reaction to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, he said, "America First! The world is a very dangerous place!"



When realists describe the world as if moral choices do not exist, they are merely disguising their own choice. Survival may come first, but it is hardly the only value worth upholding.



Most of international politics today is not about survival at all. The smart realist might not urge NATO to extend membership to Ukraine, but nor would he support abandoning that country altogether.



After all, a smart realist knows about different types of power. No president can lead at home or abroad without power; but power is about more than bombs, bullets, or resources.

There are three ways to get others to do what you want: coercion (sticks), payment (carrots), and attraction (soft power). A full understanding of power encompasses all three aspects.



If others around the world associate a country with certain moral positions, that recognition confers soft power. But because soft power is slow-acting and rarely sufficient by itself, leaders will always be tempted to deploy the hard power of coercion or payment.



They must bear in mind that, when wielded alone, hard power can involve higher costs than when it is combined with the soft power of attraction. The Roman Empire rested not only on its legions but also on the attractiveness of Roman culture.



In the Cold War's early days, the Soviet Union enjoyed a good deal of soft power in Europe, because it had stood up to Hitler. But it squandered this goodwill when it used hard military power to suppress freedom movements in Hungary in 1956 and in Czechoslovakia in 1968.



The U.S., by contrast, combined a military presence in Europe after WWII with aid to support European recovery under the Marshall Plan.



A country's soft power rests on its culture, its values, and its policies (when they are seen by others as legitimate). In America's case, soft power has often been reinforced by the narratives that U.S. presidents use to explain their foreign policies.



John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, and Barack Obama, for example, framed their policies in ways that attracted support both at home and abroad, whereas Richard Nixon and Trump were less successful in winning over those outside the U.S.



In a world of sovereign states, realism in crafting foreign policy is unavoidable. But too many realists stop there, rather than acknowledging that cosmopolitanism and liberalism often have something important to contribute. Realism is thus a necessary but insufficient basis for foreign policy.



The question is one of degree. Since there is never perfect security, an administration must decide how much security will be assured before it incorporates other values such as freedom, identity, or rights into its foreign policy.



Foreign-policy choices often pit values against practical or commercial interests, such as when the U.S. decides to sell arms to authoritarian allies, or to condemn China for its human-rights record. When realists treat such trade-offs as similar to Churchill's decision to attack the French fleet, they are simply ducking the hard moral questions.



But President Joe Biden cannot ignore the issue. His diplomatic challenge today is to find a way to avoid war without abandoning Ukraine or the values that sustain America's soft power and network of alliances.





Joseph S. Nye, Jr. is a professor at Harvard University and the author, most recently, of "Do Morals Matter? Presidents and Foreign Policy from FDR to Trump" (Oxford University Press, 2019). His article was provided by Project Syndicate (www.project-syndicate.org).


By Park Jung-won





The current confrontation between Russia and the West is causing the most dangerous European security crisis since the Cold War era. However, the root causes of this conflict are the distorted perception of history and domestic political calculations of Russian President Vladimir Putin. At first glance, those who are unaware of the complex nature of this conflict might think that Russia is the innocent victim of serious security threats coming from the West triggered by greedy geopolitical ambitions.



During his four-hour year-end press conference on Dec. 23, 2021, Putin claimed the West, and NATO in particular, have reneged on promises made in the 1990s not to expand eastward. However, his terse statements were in many instances inaccurate and contained exaggerated historical facts. Whether NATO and the West made such a promise in the past is a much-debated issue among historians.



In February 1990, James Baker, secretary of state under the administration of U.S. President George Bush, said in a meeting in Moscow with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev that if Germany were reunified, it would be better to put it under NATO's political and military structure. Gorbachev did not explicitly object. This was because NATO's eastward enlargement was not a major issue at the time.



NATO's Bucharest Summit Declaration in 2008 mentioned that Georgia and Ukraine would join NATO in the future, yet even then this was not a prominent part of the NATO agenda. For instance, the citizens of Ukraine at that time were ambivalent and hesitant about such a possibility. As NATO is essentially a defense-oriented intergovernmental military alliance, whether a particular country pursues membership is the choice of that country, irrespective of whether it meets NATO's membership qualifications.



A more fundamental question for properly understanding the current crisis should be why countries such as Ukraine, which had been part of the Soviet Union during the Cold War, might want to join NATO. An obvious reason is because of its fear of Russian aggression under Putin. Ukraine witnessed that the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, signed by Russia, the United States and the United Kingdom, in which Ukraine's territorial integrity and political independence were guaranteed, was only a useless piece of paper.



Most of all, the devastating impact of Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014, a clear violation of international law, was enormous. Putin's regime claimed that the residents living in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea exercised their right to self-determination, but this claim is absolutely false under contemporary international legal standards.



For a particular region to secede from its existing territorial state to become an independent sovereign state in the context of self-determination of its people, it is only permissible to do so in the very extreme situation in which gross violations of human rights occur to the extent of genocide and ethnic cleansing targeted at particular ethnic minority groups. There were no such evidentiary grounds in Crimea. In other words, the situation in Crimea under Ukraine in 2014 was totally different from that of Kosovo under Serbia in 2008.



Putin has enjoyed invoking the concept of a "Russian World"  the idea that Russian civilization extends to everywhere that ethnic Russians reside  but only anti-democratic dictatorial countries such as Kazakhstan and Belarus have responded to it. He says Russians and Ukrainians are one people  a single whole. However, this is a ridiculous oversimplification.



When Ukraine gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the majority of its ethnic Russian population supported its newly gained autonomy. In contrast to Putin's wishful thinking, since the end of the Cold War many former Soviet states and satellites have been evolving into democracies, even if they cannot be considered model democracies on every measure.



They have been generally influenced by the principles of the rule of law, democracy and human rights, interacting with the Council of Europe, the European Convention on Human Rights, the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities and Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).



Many ethnic Russian minority groups live in those countries as a result of historic Soviet industrialization and emigration policies, yet most of them consider themselves to be citizens of their states of residence rather than Russians (a view which has been boosted by the implementation of ethnic minority protection policies).



It is no coincidence that the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, which suffered harshly under Soviet rule, joined NATO swiftly in 2004 and have actively defended Ukraine's position in the current Russia-West/NATO crisis.



The crux of the problem is thus the contradictory nature of Putin's regime in terms of its domestic and external ramifications. Recently, Russia's Supreme Court ruled that Memorial International, the country's best-known human-rights group, be shut down, marking the latest step in a sweeping crackdown on human rights activists, independent media and opposition supporters.



The group had recorded and denounced brutal human rights abuses during the Stalin era. The anti-historical and despotic character of Putin's regime will provoke external reactions that will eventually affect the Russian people more than anyone else, and will likely act as a catalyst to hasten the regime's downfall.



As the 18th-century German philosopher Immanuel Kant once argued, the real threat to regional peace has always come from countries under tyranny and dictatorship. What Putin fears is not NATO and the West, but rather former Soviet states and satellites developing into more advanced democracies. Former U.S. National Security Adviser Zbigniew Brzezinski's warning in his 1997 book "The Grand Chessboard" that Ukraine is a prerequisite for Russia's revival, and that it must be stopped, resonates even more clearly today.





Park Jung-won (park_jungwon@hotmail.com), Ph.D. in law from the London School of Economics (LSE), is a professor of international law at Dankook University.


The office of the Attorney General has charged the Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyekye Quayson with criminal offenses of deceit, forgery and others for misleading a public officer.

The MP has been charged, among others, for deceiving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by making a false statement that he did not have a dual citizenship in order to acquire a Ghanaian passport.

Mr. Quayson has also been charged with perjury for making a false statement at Assin Fosu, that he does not owe allegiance to any country other than Ghana, a statement he did not have a reason to believe to be true at the time of making it.

Again, the MP has been charged for making a false declaration for office when he knowingly said he does not owe allegiance to any country other than Ghana for the purpose of obtaining a public office as a Member of Parliament, a statement he knew to be material for obtaining that office.

In all, he has been charged with five criminal offenses.

He was expected to appear before an Accra High Court today to plead to the charges but efforts by the police to serve him with the charge sheet have proved futile.

The court has been informed that counsel for the accused was called on phone about the charges and a message was sent to the MP himself but the police were unable to serve him.

The court has therefore, ordered that the charge sheet be served on him.

The case has been adjourned to February 9, 2022.

---Daily Guide
Partisan fireworks have thundered throughout the General Assembly session this week, the fuses eagerly lit by new Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who faces at least three lawsuits over his attempt to scrap school mask mandates and even more criticism for setting up a snitch line  excuse us, e-mail account  to take reports about grade school teachers suspected of imparting divisive concepts.

Youngkin appears to be delighted to deliver on these campaign promises, whether or not these executive orders ultimately survive court challenges or the scrutiny of the full state legislature.

At least some of his cheering section apparently doesnt see, or chooses to ignore, the cognitive dissonance at play, or the kettle of worms being upended, as virtually every hard truth learned from history can be reframed as a divisive concept that somebody, somewhere, is going to find upsetting.

These fireworks have made plenty of noise, and drawn attention away from some quieter, praise-worthy efforts to improve government services and bring benefits to constituents.

Heres a few of the bills we are rooting for, proof that theres plenty more going on in government than culture war dramatics. We hope they make it to Youngkins desk, as they are worthy of his signature.

Senate Bill 724: From the western corner of Southwest Virginia, Todd Pillion, R-Washington, has sponsored legislation that would require school boards to catalog the addresses of students who do not have broadband access. The resulting reports would be submitted annually to the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development through 2025.

The COVID-19 pandemic threw the states shortage of broadband in rural communities into stark relief, and at this point no entities have a better sense of where the need lies than the school districts, which had to figure out virtual learning on the fly.

As the state makes use of federal COVID-19 relief funds to spread the reach of broadband  with a goal of universal coverage in 2024  this tool would help pinpoint precisely where those cables and towers need to go, and provide concrete proof of progress if and when those addresses get struck from the list.

SB 5: Heres one of several excellent ideas hatched in the Roanoke Valley. David Suetterlein, R-Roanoke County, wants to lift the veil of secrecy that cloaks the Virginia Parole Board when its members vote whether or not to grant parole.

In 2020, after the parole board released a man sentenced to life in prison for the murder of a Richmond police officer, a state watchdog agency investigated and found the board in violation of the law and its own policies. Even as further troubling incidents came to light, the probe by the independent Office of the State Inspector General was squelched by officials in Gov. Ralph Northams administration.

Beyond the details of the recent scandal, the state parole board operates as a public body with its actions and records protected from public scrutiny, which is a thing that should not be. The Virginia Coalition for Open Government and the Virginia Press Association support Suetterleins bill, and so do we.

SB 3: Suetterlein again, with a bill that if it became law would save confusion on election night and perhaps nip certain kinds of false claims in the bud. This proposed legislation would make it so that when a Virginia resident casts an absentee ballot, that ballot would be counted along with all the other votes from the precinct where the resident lives, instead of held until the very end and counted in a separate pool.

This proposal is especially valuable as many more people cast absentee ballots to avoid the potential virus exposure that comes with standing in line at the polls. The practice of holding absentee ballots and counting them last contributes to the mirage effect  as happened during the 2020 presidential election, with several states that remained Republican red that first night gradually turning Democrat blue as counting continued, creating very exploitable confusion.

Suetterlein says his bill will help restore more confidence in the election results. We agree.

House Bill 105: Those who cope daily with issues of mental health and substance abuse remain among our most vulnerable populations, too often jailed when treatment is whats needed. Sam Rasoul, D-Roanoke, wants to direct the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services to study what it would take to renovate and expand the Catawba Hospital campus into a state of the art facility providing services aimed at preventing substance abuse relapses, with mental health care still an essential part of the mission. The report would be due Dec. 1.

Rasoul has estimated that transforming Catawba Hospital could cost $200 million. Given the escalating overdose crisis that is annually killing more Virginians than firearm discharges and traffic collisions combined, that $200 million would be a worthwhile investment. Given the dilapidated state of the century-old Catawba hospital building, the investment is long overdue. At very least, its worth commissioning this study to find out what the options are and how they could be accomplished.

SB 72: The status of the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke appears considerably more fragile than it did in 2015, when the restored Norfolk & Western J Class 611 steam engine rumbled into Roanoke under its own power, an occasion that had thousands lining the railroad tracks and cheering. In 2022, the 611, a rail history treasure and the museums most prized possession, has to pull excursions in Pennsylvania because Amtrak no longer allows special train trips on its tracks. Going back to 2018, the museum itself has seen three new executive directors exit after six months or less on the job, and tax forms indicate the nonprofit has been operating in the red.

Nonetheless, the transportation museum is the place where visitors from all over the world come to learn about Southwest Virginias pivotal role in the development of the railroad industry. Its where tourists come to see artifacts from the days that Norfolk & Western, now Norfolk Southern, kept its headquarters here and built its glorious engines.

VMTs designation as the states official transportation museum acknowledges this importance. Yet despite that designation, VMT gets no financial support from the state, a wrong that Sen. John Edwards, R-Roanoke, is trying to set right by getting the museum classified as a state agency. We hope he succeeds.
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI): External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar in Rajya Sabha, on Thursday, said that there is a provision in the Indian Community Welfare Fund for responding to situations like deaths.

Jaishankar who was commenting on commented on the monetary aid to the kin of NRIs who died abroad due to Covid-19 and said that the usage of the fund was expanded in 2017.

Also Read | California Shooting: 1 Dead, Several Injured in Greyhound Bus Attack in Oroville.

"We've always encouraged Gulf countries for ex gratia payments to be made by the Government or employers", Jaishankar told the Rajya Sabha.

Notably, the 2022 Budget Session began earlier on January 31 with President Ram Nath Kovind's addressing both the Houses of Parliament. (ANI)

Also Read | Brussels: European Parliament Gives Centre Stage to Afghan Women.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
"Government of India remains closely engaged with the Government of Canada to address our concerns relating to anti-India activities by the extremist elements. Both the governments have recognised the fundamental principle of respect for sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of India and Canada as the basis of bilateral relations.", he said.

He further stated that the Indian Government maintains close contacts with the Indian community in Canada, and its policy is to make continuous efforts to strengthen the bond with the community.

"The vast majority of people of Indian origin in Canada share a warm emotional bond with India and have worked for the betterment of relations between India and Canada.", he added. (ANI)
Landslide at quarry should be target of workplace disaster law



A landslide, which took place at a quarry in a town northwest of Seoul last Saturday, claimed the lives of three workers. About 300,000 cubic meters of soil collapsed at the quarry in Yangju, Gyeonggi Province, when the workers were digging holes for demolition work. The police have charged an official responsible for the demolition work at Sampyo Industry  a manufacturer of construction materials  with professional negligence and manslaughter.



The accident is drawing attention as Sampyo Industry could become the first workplace to be subject to the Severe Disaster Punishment Act that went into effect on Jan. 27. According to the law, the owners and CEOs of companies with five or more employees can face a minimum one-year prison sentence or a fine of up to 1 billion won ($833,000) in the event of severe workplace disasters. The latest accident will likely be the first case to which the new law is applied if it is confirmed that the company violated safety rules. The labor ministry will likely ask law enforcement authorities to prosecute those responsible, considering the strong public outcry over the accident.



Many local businesses are paying keen attention to the Sampyo case. The industrial community seems to be on full alert about the level of penalty and punishment to be handed down on the company owner. For now, the accident's aftereffects are unlikely to spill over to the owner's family. However, local builders that shut down their construction sites late last month to avoid becoming the first targets of the new law, seem to be worried that punishing company owners has become a reality with the new law.



Korea has put into effect the workplace disaster law in order to shed the disgrace of recording one of the highest industrial disaster and mortality rates among OECD member nations. The law took effect after the government suspended the enforcement of the law for one year. Still, two days after its implementation, three people died in an industrial disaster. If the owner's family is confirmed to have been involved in wrongdoing, corresponding punishment should follow. The whole nation is watching the case closely. Companies should do more to protect workers from workplace disasters that could have been prevented if the proper safety measures had been taken.


The Commission informed the court that it has done so under the Vishaka guidelines and Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.

The commission informed this while moving an application seeking to add itself as an additional respondent in a plea filed earlier by Women in Cinema Collective (WCC).

The court allowed the application and posted the hearing of the case to February 14.

WCC had filed the petition in 2018 seeking a directive to constitute an Internal Complaints Committee in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) for dealing with sexual assault.

This was in the wake of the Actress Assault Case that was happened in 2017. (ANI)
MUMBAI, India, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tata Communications (NSE: TATACOMM) (BSE: 500483) a global digital ecosystem enabler, has been awarded 'Leader' position by Avasant, a leading management consulting firm, in its report titled 'SD-WAN Managed Services 2021-2022 RadarView. This recognition is accorded for exhibiting consistent excellence across all three key dimensions of the assessment (practice maturity, partnership ecosystem, investments and innovation) as well as having a superior impact on the market as a whole.

With its end-to-end managed services Tata Communications IZO SDWAN enables enterprises to manage a secure network transformation through a unified customer experience platform. Secondly, the customer experience is further enhanced through a self-service platform which provides end-to-end network monitoring, reporting, traffic steering and analytics. Thirdly, Tata Communications has a dedicated customer experience portal.

As the Report states, Tata Communications as a 'Leader' has "shown true creativity and innovation and have established trends and best practices for the industry." A Leader "displays a superior quality of execution and a reliable depth and breadth across verticals." Avasant assessed over 40 providers globally.

"As the pandemic accelerated the usage of cloud and digital services, organisations started to realise the limitations of traditional WAN infrastructure in handling the growing network requirements," said Abhishek Nayak, Senior Research Analyst, Avasant. "Thus, enterprises are increasingly turning to implement SD-WAN services to supplement their existing network infrastructure. Tata Communications offers comprehensive managed SDWAN services through its IZO SDWAN offering. The service portfolio is backed by an internet-based WAN offering, strategic investments in building industry-specific use cases and solutions, all of which have combined to place Tata Communications as a Leader in the Avasant's SD-WAN Managed Services 2021-2022 RadarView."

"We are honoured for being awarded 'Leader' position by Avasant for our Global SD-WAN Managed Services," said Srinivasan CR, Chief Digital Officer, Tata Communications. "We have been strategically taking steady and concerted efforts to enhance our end-to-end design, delivery and management based on best-fit technology with our converged SDWAN and network security managed solution. We remain focussed to further develop our offerings to enable a secure network transformation for enterprises."

Tata Communications IZO SDWAN managed services enables network transformation for enterprises across industries and particularly have a strong presence in sectors such as manufacturing, hi-tech, retail, CPG amongst others. It ensures reliable and secure digital scalability for enterprises by offering seamless cloud transition, multi-vendor approach, optimised performance and extended reach, underpinned by Tata Communications leading global network and partnerships.

Tata Communications IZO SDWAN offers a fully and co-managed model to its enterprise customers globally across 130+ countries. It offers the world's first enhanced and predictable internet-based WAN with end-to-end Service Level Agreement (SLA) guarantee and connects enterprises directly to world's top cloud giants globally.

Know more about Tata Communications IZO SDWAN.



About Tata Communications

A part of the Tata Group, Tata Communications (NSE: TATACOMM; BSE: 500483) is a global digital ecosystem enabler powering today's fast-growing digital economy in more than 190 countries and territories. Leading with trust, it enables digital transformation of enterprises globally with collaboration and connected solutions, core and next gen connectivity, cloud hosting and security solutions and media services. 300 of the Fortune 500 companies are its customers and the company connects businesses to 80% of the world's cloud giants. For more information, please visit

www.tatacommunications.com

Forward-looking and cautionary statements

Certain words and statements in this release concerning Tata Communications and its prospects, and other statements, including those relating to Tata Communications' expected financial position, business strategy, the future development of Tata Communications' operations, and the general economy in India, are forward-looking statements. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including financial, regulatory and environmental, as well as those relating to industry growth and trend projections, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements of Tata Communications, or industry results, to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from such forward-looking statements include, among others, failure to increase the volume of traffic on Tata Communications' network; failure to develop new products and services that meet customer demands and generate acceptable margins; failure to successfully complete commercial testing of new technology and information systems to support new products and services, including voice transmission services; failure to stabilize or reduce the rate of price compression on certain of the company's communications services; failure to integrate strategic acquisitions and changes in government policies or regulations of India and, in particular, changes relating to the administration of Tata Communications' industry; and, in general, the economic, business and credit conditions in India. Additional factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from such forward-looking statements, many of which are not in Tata Communications' control, include, but are not limited to, those risk factors discussed in Tata Communications Limited's Annual Reports.

The Annual Reports of Tata Communications Limited are available at www.tatacommunications.com. Tata Communications is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements.

 2022 Tata Communications Ltd. All rights reserved.

TATA COMMUNICATIONS and TATA are trademarks or registered trademarks of Tata Sons Private Limited in India and certain countries.

SOURCE Tata Communications
Defence Minister Anita Anand, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly look on as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks following a cabinet retreat, Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022 in Ottawa. Trudeau says Canada is extending its mission to train Ukrainian soldiers by three years. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
Termen extins pana la 29.09.2022: AO Asociatia de Educatie Civica "Viitorul Incepe Azi" angajeaza un expert national pentru evaluarea pietei muncii din raionul Ungheni
REGION  The American Red Cross has issued its first-ever blood crisis alert, a dire call for blood and platelet donations which have reached critically low levels during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Since the Red Cross issued its first-ever blood crisis alert," states a press release, "severe winter weather has further complicated efforts to rebuild the blood supply. Hundreds of blood drives have been canceled across the country due to winter storms in January, forcing about 6,500 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected."

Severe winter storms can further threated the already low blood supply, said Red Cross Communications and Marketing Director Lisa Landis, urging individuals to make appointments to give blood as early as possible. One pint of donated blood can help save up to three lives as it is divided into three parts, red blood cells, plasma and platelets. These individual parts can be used in transfusions on up to three different people.

Blood donations play a vital role in helping trauma victims, cancer patients, those suffering from chronic illness, and those who are undergoing surgery.

Blood type O positive is an especially valuable blood type to give because it is the "universal red cell donor." This means O positive blood can be used to treat patients with any blood type. According to the Red Cross, "Types O negative and O positive are in high demand. Only 7% of the population are O negative. However, the need for O negative blood is the highest because it is used most often during emergencies. The need for O+ is high because it is the most frequently occurring blood type (37% of the population)."

The American Red Cross issued its first-ever blood crisis alert. Those who can donate are strongly encouraged to do so.

Blood donations are needed. Visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to make an appointment today.

All types of blood are needed, however, because not every blood type can be used in all patients. According to Red Cross, "Blood types are determined by the presence or absence of certain antigens  substances that can trigger an immune response if they are foreign to the body. Since some antigens can trigger a patient's immune system to attack the transfused blood, safe blood transfusions depend on careful blood typing and cross-matching."

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As an added incentive to encourage donations, the Red Cross partnered with Krispy Kreme to offer a free Original Glazed dozen doughnuts to those who give blood or platelets through January 31.

In February, the Red Cross is once again offering incentives to encourage donation. This time, however, they're partnering with Amazon to hand out $10 Amazon.com Gift Cards via email. Those who donate between February 1-28, 2022 are eligible.

Upcoming local blood drives include:

Friday, February 4Browndale Fire Station, 620 Marion Street, Browndale, PA 18421, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Friday, February 11The Wright Center Mid Valley Practice, 5 South Washington Avenue, Jermyn, PA 18433, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Thursday, February 17Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall Post #7963, 284 Main Street, Eynon, PA 18403, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, April 6The Waymart Church, 596 Honesdale Road, Waymart, PA 18472, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday, April 15Joe Terry Civic Center, 1038 Montdale Road, Scott Township, PA 18447, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Thursday, April 21Eagle Hose Fire Company, 1 Eagle Lane, Dickson City, PA 18519, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Those interested in donating can make an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED-CROSS).

Eligible donors must be 17 yeas of age or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health. Additionally, one can only donate blood if it has been at least 56 days since their last donation.

Donors must bring a blood donor card, a driver license, or two other forms of identification to check in.

Red Cross notes one can also save up to 15 minutes on the day of one's donation by completing a "Rapid Pass."

RapidPass allows one to complete the pre-donation reading and fill out the health history questionnaire online from a mobile device or computer. More information is available form RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass.

With COVID-19 in mind, "Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions  including face masks for donors and staff, regardless of vaccination status  have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance," states a press release. "Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive."

In addition to needing blood and platelet donations, the Red cross is also looking for help running their collections.

"During this challenging time, the Red Cross is also actively recruiting blood collection employees and blood drive volunteers who play vital roles in supporting the nations blood supply," states a press release.

Those interested in working for American Red Cross can learn more online: http://redcross.org/careers.

Those with a drive for volunteer work can learn more from: redcross.org/volunteertoday.

This article originally appeared on Tri-County Independent: Red Cross declares blood crisis, urges donations. Register to donate
By Pavel Polityuk and Orhan Coskun

KYIV (Reuters) -President Tayyip Erdogan will discuss tensions between Ukraine and Russia with his counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Kyiv on Thursday, after pitching Turkey as a mediator, and an official said he was not picking any sides in the crisis.

Erdogan's visit to Turkey's fellow Black Sea nation comes after visits to Kyiv by leaders of NATO members Britain, Poland, and the Netherlands amid the standoff. Turkey has good ties with Kyiv and Moscow but has said it would do what is necessary as a NATO member if Russia invades.

Russia has denied plans to invade Ukraine amid concern by many Western nations over its build up of more than 100,000 troops near the border, but has demanded sweeping security guarantees from the West and says it could take unspecified military measures if its demands are not met.

Ankara has previously offered to help defuse the standoff and Turkish diplomatic sources have said both Russia and Ukraine were open to the idea. Turkey has opposed the sanctions threatened by other NATO members in response to a military incursion by Russia.

Speaking to reporters before leaving for Ukraine, Erdogan said Turkey was calling on both sides to seek dialogue, adding the crisis must be resolved peacefully on the basis of international law.

"Today, we will have our meeting with Mr Zelenskiy. After a visit to China, (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has told us he would travel to Turkey," he said. "Without holding these two visits, these talks, it would not be right to think about what we can do."

"God willing we will successfully overcome this problematic period between these two countries," Erdogan said, adding that statements from both Ukraine and Russia had so far played down the prospect of a direct military conflict.

The talks were due to be start with a bilateral meeting between the presidents at 1000 GMT.

DRONES

A Turkish official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that Ankara expects tensions to ease after the talks and that Erdogan will deliver messages that include calling on both sides to exercise restraint.

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Turkey's "approach is not picking one side or standing against one country in the tensions," the official said, adding that Ankara wanted continued cooperation with both countries.

Turkey shares the Black Sea with Ukraine and Russia. Erdogan has said conflict would be unacceptable in the region and warned Russia that an invasion would be unwise.

While forging cooperation on defence and energy, Turkey has opposed Moscow's policies in Syria and Libya, as well as its annexation of the Crimean peninsula in 2014. It has also sold sophisticated drones to Ukraine, angering Russia.

Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov told a briefing ahead of Erdogan's visit that Turkey and Ukraine will press ahead with a plan to build drones in Ukraine. The two countries will also sign a free trade agreement, along with several more deals.

(Reporting by Orhan Coskun, Tuvan Gumrukcu, Ece Toksabay in Ankara; Pavel Polityuk and Matthias Williams in Kyiv; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan and Frank Jack Daniel)
Published on 2022/02/02 | Source

While the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics will be held from April 20th, various genres of new dramas will be poured out on general programming channels and cable. Not only will there be romance and youth with different characteristics, but also a little action is added, drawing viewers' expectations. Entering the first half of 2022 in earnest, various stories will unfold widely.

Advertisement

 "Twenty Five Twenty One", a story of youth in 1987

"Twenty-five Twenty-one" is a drama depicting the wandering and growth of young people who lost their dreams in the 1998s. Two people who called each others' names for the first time at the ages of twenty-two and eighteen, reflect on the memories of pure and fierce youth, including refreshing first love that loves and grows. For this drama, writer Kwon Do-eun and director Jung Ji-hyun, who worked together in "Search: WWW", meet again.

Kim Tae-ri plays Na Hee-do in the drama. Na Hee-do is a high school student who has lost her team due to the IMF, but has not given up and has united with passion and spirit. Nam Joo-hyuk plays Baek Yi-jin, who becomes a reporter after living toughly as the eldest son of a family that has been shattered by the IMF. Each of them plans to show how they overcome their worries, providing healing to viewers.

 JTBC "Forecasting Love and Weather", capturing love and work

"Forecasting Love and Weather" is a work romance drama that depicts the work and love of Korea Meteorological Administration people which is hotter than tropical nights and more indispensable than local heavy rains. Director Cha Yeong-hoon of KBS 2TV drama "When the Camellia Blooms" and creator Kang Eun-kyeong's writer Seon Yeong from Gleline, who created hot dramas such as "The World of the Married" and "Misty", are looking forward to the birth of a reliable work.

In this work, Park Min-young plays Jin Ha-kyeong, the general forecaster, and Song Kang plays Lee Si-woo, the special manager. In addition, Yoon Park was in charge of the role of Han Gi-joon, the notifier of the Korea Meteorological Administration's spokesman's office, who is about to marry Jin Ha-kyeong. It is a work that focuses on an in-house relationship that you encounter as a colleague even after breaking up and aims to draw the dizzying romance of the three.

 tvN "Military Prosecutor Doberman", an unfamiliar occupation

"Military Prosecutor Doberman" is a drama about Do Bae-man, who becomes a military prosecutor for money and Cha Woo-in, who becomes a military prosecutor for revenge, meeting to break the black and rotten evil in the military and grow into real military prosecutors. Based on the interesting background of the military court for the first time in Korea, it will provide a different level of tension and immersion. In addition, Yoon Hyeon-ho, who wrote the movie "The Attorney" and the drama "Lawless Lawyer" and director Jin Chang-gyoo, who directed "Bad Papa" and "CHIP-IN", are expected to create a military court play.

Ahn Bo-hyun plays the role of Do Bae-man who becomes a military prosecutor for money and is a person who is just looking forward to taking off his military uniform. Jo Bo-ah plays Cha Woo-in. Cha Woo-in is a military prosecutor with experienced and skillful investigative power, heralding Jo Bo-ah's extraordinary image transformation. Attention is focusing on how the rough and strong acting of the two will be seen.

 Son Ye-jin's comeback drama, JTBC "Thirty Nine"

"Thirty Nine" is a real human romance drama that deals with in-depth stories about friendship, love, and life of three friends who are turning forty just around the corner. The drama draws how precious and dazzling their friendship will be when they are together and are not afraid of each other's lives.

Son Ye-jin took a break after the tvN drama "Crash Landing on You" in 2019 and made "Thirty Nine" her comeback. She plays the role of Cha Mi-jo who lives a happy life with Jeong Chan-yeong (Jeon Mi-do) and Jang Joo-hee (Kim Ji-hyun-II). They meet by chance at the age of eighteen and turn thirty-nine, they fiercely interfere with each other's lives as friends, but they still show strong friendship.
Medical imaging service in a hospital in Savoie, France. A technician monitors a brain MRI scan session. BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

At least 48 people in Canada have come down with symptoms indicative of a brain disease.

Episodes of pain are often followed by trouble walking, speaking, or performing basic tasks.

Officials say they've ruled out environmental causes and human transmission, but they don't have a diagnosis yet.

Dozens of New Brunswick residents have been struck with mysterious symptoms that point to a degenerative brain disorder, and authorities still don't have an explanation for the debilitating illness.

A report leaked in March 2021 noted a cluster of cases of what looked like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease: spasms, memory loss, hallucinations, and severe weight loss as the condition keeps people from being active.

At the time, 48 cases had been identified, with symptoms starting between 2013 and 2020. However, a separate whistleblower from one of New Brunswick's health authorities told the Guardian that the mysterious illness had affected close to 150 by January 2022, and that many of those who got sick were young, previously healthy adults.

An investigation into the cases, previously headed by Canadian federal scientists, has lagged since it fell on the province. Provincial officials have promised to publish another report about the cases soon, but the public as well as patients and families are still awaiting information, Leyland Cecco wrote for The Guardian.

But there's still no report, and the case data on New Brunswick's public health website hasn't been updated since May 2021. People sickened with the illness don't even know what to call it, as there's no name or official diagnosis for the mysterious neurological disease.

Leg pain that turned into vision loss was diagnosed as PTSD

For Terriline Porelle, it began with an "electric shock" pain in her leg during the summer of 2020, she told the Guardian. The pain crept up her arms and to her face in the days that followed. Soon, the 33-year-old's vision was like that of a 70-year-old, one optometrist told her.

Story continues

One day, Porelle forgot how to write the letter "Q," and she went to a doctor for a brain scan. It came back normal, and provincial officials referred her to a neuropsychologist.

The specialist told Porelle she likely had PTSD. But Porelle has faced mental health challenges before, and she said the symptoms she has now are nothing like the anxiety and depression she's had in the past. She still struggles with declining mental function and says she relies on her partner for help with daily tasks.

"We've been given no resources from the government and no help," she said. "I don't know what to do. I try to keep positive, but it's hard. There are days when I don't know if I should even bother saving for retirement. Am I even going to live that long?"

Patients worry the investigation has slowed down

The January whisteblower told the Guardian that many cases with the symptom cluster have yet to be processed by the province, and many of the cases in backlog are among young people.

Of the cases reported so far, ages have ranged from 18 to 85. Nine people with illness have died, although the province notes that six of those individuals died of other known causes.

Previously, officials investigated and ruled out several environmental factors that could be causing the illness: blue-green algae, toxicity in shellfish, chronic wasting disease, or a toxic herbicide. None of the explanations have stuck, and some of the early patients have been left out of the loop.

Johanne Boucher, 63, told the Guardian she recently received a letter that said investigators would no longer be looking into her case. They suggested that she get some more tests  tests she said she had already taken  because her symptoms could be explained by Parkinson's disease or another form of brain degeneration.

For Boucher, who "can't even order a coffee" after completely losing her speech in late 2021, the news came as a shock. Her ability to speak deteriorated over four years, and she still doesn't have an explanation.

Read the original article on Insider
Congress is getting better at heading off devastating recessions. Yet the gusher of stimulus money Congress provided to offset the COVID recession during the last two years included hundreds of billions of dollars for wealthy Americans, with little benefit to the ordinary workers the money was supposed to help.

New research by MIT economist David Autor and nine others finds that the Paycheck Protection Program, an $800 billion aid package Congress passed in March 2020, was one of the costliest but least effective Congressional efforts to combat the COVID recession. The PPP was supposed to help workers by keeping their employers afloat. Low-interest loans were available to nearly every U.S. business with 500 workers or fewer. The money was for keeping workers on the payroll, hiring back laid-off workers and otherwise keeping the lights on. Most of those loans are likely to be forgiven under terms Congress established when it passed the program.

The PPP did help hasten the end of the COVID recession in 2020. The Autor research found that the program preserved nearly 3 million jobs in the second quarter of 2020 and a smaller number of jobs in ensuing quarters. It also aided the financial system by allowing smaller businesses to continue making payments for mortgages, equipment and supplies.

A remarkably open program

But the Autor research also found that the distribution of Paycheck Protection Program loans overwhelmingly accrued to high-income households. Thats because the money went principally to business owners and shareholders, who tend to be wealthy. Some of that money made its way to workers, but much of it didnt, an outcome that could change the way Congress structures fiscal stimulus in the future.

[Get Rick Newmans stories by email or follow him on Twitter.]

The Autor research traced $510 billion in PPP loans the government issued in 2020, and found that only $144 billion made its way to the bottom 80% of earners. That left $366 billion going to the top 20% of earners. That doesnt mean wealthy Americans got taxpayer cash they could use to buy boats or beach houses or spend any way they want. Instead, those funds preserved and boosted the value of ownership stakes in businesses. Even that was probably good for the U.S. economy. Its just not the paycheck protection the law promised.

WASHINGTON, DC - President Biden announces changes to the Paycheck Protection Program. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

There were two other huge COVID relief programs  stimulus checks that went to most U.S. families, and federal jobless aid that supplemented state unemployment benefits. Those were more effective at reaching lower-income Americans who needed the help most. The vast majority of the money from those two programs went to the bottom 80% of earners, and much of it went to the bottom 40%.

Stimulus checks and expanded jobless aid are standard forms of fiscal aid Congress has relied on before. The PPP was more novel. Unlike most recessions, which materialize gradually, the 2020 downturn was an abrupt shock with a single cause  the COVID virus. As businesses shut down temporarily and consumers huddled at home, the unemployment rate soared from 3.5% to 14.8% in a mere two months. The goal of the PPP was to keep businesses afloat until the economy recovered, and prevent a wave of bankruptcies that could stress the credit system and turn an economic crisis into a financial one.

The urgency of the problem led to a remarkably generous PPP program. Virtually any business below the size threshold could get a loan, without having to show any financial need whatsoever. That changed when Congress approved a third round of PPP loans for 2021. At that point, any firm taking out a second PPP loan needed to show it had a financial need for the money.

A tradeoff for getting money into the economy quickly

The tradeoff for injecting tons of money into the economy rapidly was that the money was untargeted and didnt necessarily go to those who needed it most. A 2021 study by the Dallas Federal Reserve, for instance, found that some parts of the country where workers suffered the most during the early weeks of the COVID pandemic got relatively small amounts of PPP aid. One reason is that banks administered the loans and tended to arrange them first with businesses they already served. Businesses without an existing banking relationship might have desperately needed a loan, but might also have been at the back of the line.

Still, the Dallas Fed found that PPP did aid the labor market recovery, calling the program a qualified success. In at least one way it was definitively better than the back door bailouts the Federal Reserve and other banking regulators executed during the financial crisis of 2008 and 2009. In some instances, financial firms in no danger of failing got billions of dollars in aid through loopholes, effectively swallowing taxpayer money without explicit authorization by Congress. That made a multi-pronged rescue plan meant to prevent widespread bank runs look like corporate welfare, at a time when unemployment, foreclosures and bankruptcies were surging. Outrage ensued, undermining support for an ugly rescue that was nonetheless necessary.

The 2008 and 2009 bailouts stabilized hundreds of big companies in the hope that would keep workers employed. But there was no requirement that businesses protect jobs. The PPP was supposed to improve on that by linking federal aid directly to worker protection. Yet the latest data suggests theres still a long way to go. If another recession calls for such aid, Congress may target it more carefully at the neediest businesses from the outset.

The Autor research also points out that high-income nations in Europe and elsewhere have work sharing or wage subsidy programs that give federal authorities more flexibility when doling out aid during a downturn. The U.S. system relies on unemployment insurance to help workers who lose their jobs, whereas other systems are meant to keep workers on the payroll, even if they work or earn less while the economy shrinks. That keeps workers connected with employers, enabling a smoother road back as the economy recovers. If the U.S. had such a system, it would also make it easier to subsidize workers directly, instead of counting on business owners to do it. Maybe during some future recession.

Rick Newman is a columnist and author of four books, including "Rebounders: How Winners Pivot from Setback to Success. Follow him on Twitter: @rickjnewman. You can also send confidential tips.

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
By Carl Golden





By all accounts, it is a near certainty the Republican Party will regain control of the House of Representatives this year and is well-positioned to gain one seat and secure a Senate majority.



The only thing standing in the way is Donald Trump.



If the national party leadership enters the midterm campaign season as the cult of Trump, the odds of returning to congressional power for the first time since 2014 will plummet.



With an unpopular President Biden, a bitterly divided Democratic Party and national dissatisfaction with the country's direction, the Republican future is bright.



It is time to cut ties with the ex-president and halt the damaging debate over his insistence he was cheated out of re-election in 2020.



His recent unhinged rally harangues have astonished even many of his hard-core supporters and created a narrative that, left unchecked, will turn voters away from the party's congressional candidates.



For more than a year, Trump has insisted the election was stolen despite not a shred of credible supporting evidence has been presented in the more than 60 court challenges.



His response has been to stoke outrage by claiming Vice President Mike Pence had the unilateral power to overturn the election results  an argument with no constitutional or statutory foundation.



He most recently urged his followers to erupt in national mass protests if charges are lodged by "vicious, racist prosecutors" investigating allegations of illegal activities by his private businesses as well as by accusations he interfered in the balloting process in Georgia.



It was a call to arms to promote civil uprisings to discredit the established legal system if he or his businesses are found culpable. He followed by pledging that if elected president in 2024, he would issue pardons to anyone found guilty of Federal charges for participating in the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the U. S. Capitol building.



It was the kind of fist-shaking rant history has recorded as shouted from balconies to mass audiences below.



Republican leaders are likely aghast at Trump's language and threats, but those few who have spoken out have been measured while the vast majority have remained silent.



It is indicative of Trump's iron grip on that portion of the party base that shouts in agreement when he speaks and it creates a fear that crossing the former president would alienate his dedicated followers.



His calls to cast aside the constitution and place his interests above it, incite potentially violent street protests and abuse presidential pardon authority to absolve rioters who threatened duly elected members of Congress, can no longer go unanswered.



Dismissing his actions as simply "Trump being Trump" is wishful thinking, a belief that Americans will grow weary of his histrionics, and he'll fade into irrelevancy. They rightly point out that without the national stage given him by the White House, his voice and authority are seriously diminished. His banishment from social media platforms has hampered his reach as well.



He remains, though, a shrewd manipulator of the mainstream media. They cover his rallies, tout his fund-raising prowess and assess the strength of his candidate endorsements.



Trump's guiding principle is that the American people can never hear enough from him and the media is a willing accomplice in achieving it.



He understands that the greater his outrage, the more inflammatory and personally coarse his language, the more widespread is the coverage.



The damage inflicted on the Republican Party, though, will continue to pile up and, in the absence of a response, will become a crushing burden.



While Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell  a frequent target of some of Trump's cruelest attacks  has ignored him, it is a position that will become untenable over time.



It is time to acknowledge that Trump will not go away anytime soon, he'll not retire gracefully like his predecessors and will continue to strew political havoc throughout the Republican Party.



Congressional elections are 10 months off, but serious campaigning and fund raising have already begun.



The party leadership can no longer afford a delay and drift strategy and hope Trump will talk and bluster his way out of relevancy.



The leadership must move decisively to isolate Trump and break cleanly from his incendiary rhetoric.



If not, Trump will isolate the party.





Carl Golden (cgolden1937@gmail) is a senior contributing analyst with the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University in New Jersey. His article was distributed by Cagle Cartoons Inc.


PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will sit in a Central Committee meeting on February 3, 2022.

The Central Committee meeting which was adjourned on October 20, 2021, will be reconvened on Thursday at 09.30 hrs. in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. Representatives of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) will be present.

The agenda point is:

Discussion with the Windward Islands Chamber of Labor Unions on legislation to better protect the economic, social, and financial wellbeing of workers and their households in our friendly island

(IS/921/2020-2021 dated August 13, 2021)

Due to measures taken to mitigate the coronavirus (COVID-19), the House of Parliament is only allowing persons with an appointment to enter the Parliament building.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, SXM Bulletin (Cable TV 120), via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, and www.pearlfmradio.sx
Under the best of circumstances, maps of New York State's reapportioned congressional districts would routinely arrive at the print shop today following Wednesday's approval of their new lines by the Senate and Assembly.

But while the Legislature has completed its constitutional task following the inability of an independent commission to reach consensus, the maps may not be finalized for printing yet. Republican sources indicated Wednesday the matter will most likely be argued in court amid charges of partisan gerrymandering surrounding the process.

Still, the Assembly passed the measure Wednesday by a 103-45 vote, largely along partisan lines. The Senate followed later by a margin of 43-20. Both houses turn their attention Thursday to new lines for the state's Senate and Assembly districts.

Though the plan for New York's congressional districts may still face judicial review, the new lines reflect results of the 2020 census and the continuing loss of upstate population. That forced mapmakers to reduce the state congressional delegation from 27 to 26, and significantly expands the land area of the surviving upstate districts.

But GOP officials say the process, controlled by Democrats enjoying super-majorities in both the Assembly and Senate, aimed to reduce the number of Republicans representing the state in the House of Representatives  maybe from six to three. The Legislature acted Wednesday after the Independent Redistricting Commission, composed of an equal number of Republicans and Democrats and created by a 2014 constitutional amendment, could not agree on new districts.

Former Republican State Sen. Jack Martins, vice chairman of the redistricting commission, said Wednesday night on "Capital Tonight" on Spectrum News that the stalemate "may have been what they (the Democrats) had in mind all along. ... They put together maps without any Republican input."

State Sen. Michael Gianaris defended the process on "Capital Tonight," saying that the plan complied with the State Constitution and statutory rules and contending that it corrected decades of gerrymandering by Republicans.

Martins and Gianaris both expected that the plan will face lawsuits. Gianaris noted that court challenges may affect this year's primary elections "in ways we can't predict right now."

Now, Republican dominated districts appear to have survived in Western New York, Central New York, the North Country and on Long Island, but some have also been redrawn into strange shapes traversing across hundreds of miles. The new 24th District in which Republican Rep. Chris Jacobs of Orchard Park plans to run, for example, stretches from the Niagara River and around Rochester to the Thousand Islands. Jacobs would also be forced to move, since he does not reside in the new district.

Republican Rep. Claudia Tenney of Oneida County has also announced plans to run in the new 23rd District that basically comprises the current Southern Tier district represented by the retiring Rep. Tom Reed, R-Corning. She would also be required to move from her New Hartford home into the Southern Tier, should she win. Tenney is considered the leading contender for the new district's GOP nod following the Wednesday decision of former Republican State Sen. Cathy Young of Olean to pass on running in the 2022 election.

Republicans also claim other districts around the state have also been reapportioned to unfairly benefit Democrats.
Dalit leader Kamlesh Paswan on Thursday accused the former BJP leader Swami Prasad Maurya of blackmailing party leadership for election tickets in the upcoming Assembly polls for family members, which the party refused. While speaking to ANI, Kamlesh Paswan said, "I am directly accusing Swami Prasad Maurya that he was seeking election tickets for some family members by blackmailing the BJP, which the party refused and so, he joined another party." Paswan further said, "Swami Prasad Maurya was a three-time MLA. The Bharatiya Janata Party gave him honour when no one else did. He was made a Cabinet Minister but now out of greed, he went to another party. I don't want to target him too much now but his fate is going to change after March 10." While speaking about BJP's popularity among the backward and downtrodden classes in Uttar Pradesh, "The society I come from is considered very backwards and we live in the village and have done politics for the last 23 years. At present, what I am seeing now is that there are no such caste issues in the society and that would not be possible without Narendra Modi. Bharatiya Janata Party sees everyone equally", added the Dalit leader. Asked on Swami Prasad Maurya contesting from another seat and whether RPN Singh is going to fight from Padrauna in the upcoming Assembly election, Paswan said, "It is the party's decision whether RPN Singh or someone else would contest from that seat. As I come from Purvanchal, I can assure you that no matter whichever seats Swami Prasad Maurya contests from anywhere in Purvanchal, the Bharatiya Janata Party defeat him." (ANI)
Former Foreign Minister (FM) Natwar Singh on Thursday completely disagreed with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's statement that the BJP government's policies have brought "China and Pakistan together" while hitting back at Wayanad MP saying it was his great grandfather's (First PM of India Jawaharlal Nehru) who took the Kashmir issue to United Nations. 'I am surprised that nobody from the government side got up to remind Rahul Gandhi that what he has said is not completely accurate because China and Pakistan have been close allies since the 60s," said Singh said during an exclusive interview with ANI. Natwar Singh, who was the Foreign Minister during UPA's tenure in 2004 when Manmohan Singh was the PM, took a dig at Rahul Gandhi's ignorance and said, "It started in his great grandfather's time (first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru). His great grandfather took the Kashmir issue to the United Nations and it is still there. His great grandfather had put so much faith in China that we were not prepared when the Chinese attacked us. These are historical facts and nobody is making them up." Rebutting to Rahul Gandhi's statement on the Motion of Thanks to President's Address in Lok Sabha of "India being isolated", the former Foreign Minister underscored the fact that India is not isolated and it has good relations with its neighbours. He also lauded External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar over his remarks that "some history lessons are in order" and that Pakistan illegally handed over the Shaksgam Valley to China in 1963, when the Congress government was in office. "We are not isolated. We have good relations with our neighbours and our foreign policy is not a failure. We have a foreign minister who has spent all his life dealing with foreign policy. Our foreign minister was well informed and I am glad he replied to what Rahul Gandhi said yesterday," said Singh. The former FM highlighted that India now is strong enough to repulse their (Pakistan and China) attack and "if they think of attacking India it will lead to very serious consequences". "They (China and Pakistan) have built roads near their borders and they are perfectly entitled to. But at the moment, they also know that if they were to attack us, it will lead to very serious consequences because we are not as weak as we were in 1962. They tried in the Ladakh area and the Indian Army pushed them back. So, it's simple, I don't see that security threat to India. We should be prepared and we are prepared," Singh further added. On the statement made by US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price regarding the US referring to Pakistan as its ally, he said, "I think he (Ned Price) is quite right because they don't want to get involved in it. For anybody from the State Department, this is the right statement to make and it is for Pakistan and China to respond. Now, whether they will respond or not, I don't know. Meanwhile, ex-Foreign Office Spokesman, in an exclusive interview to ANI, Vishnu Prakash was "astounded by the tone and tenor of the remarks that Rahul Gandhi made." He said, "The way he blended facts and fiction. It seems that India has become independent in 2014 and there was no history before that. The most surprising part is the charge that India has been isolated. Nobody can come to this conclusion unless one is reading Pakistani and Chinese media." "In fact, I believe that India's stock is higher. To say that China and Pakistan have formed an alliance in the last 7 years again betrays the ignorance of rudimentary history. We all know that the alliance was built-in 1963 so on, so forth. It was indeed very surprising that somebody of the stature of Rahul Gandhi would level this kind of charges against the government to score a few brownie points," Prakash said as he mocked the baseless charges of Rahul Gandhi. Foreign affairs specialist Prakash said that Pakistan has time and again played both sides, harmed the American interests and yet the US continues to believe in Pakistan, which defies logic. "American policy towards China is not understood. I think that Pakistan is a weak spot for the US," he added. Former Indian Foreign Secretary, Kanwal Sibal said that Jaishankar has aptly responded to what Rahul Gandhi said and gave some very good historical facts. "After the 1962 conflict, both China and Pakistan saw an opportunity to strengthen and develop their relations to put strategic pressure on India. As part of that bargain in 1963 agreement between China and Pakistan was signed, even though there is no border between the two countries. Moreover, it was ceded to China by Pakistan," said Sibal in an exclusive interview with ANI. Later, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2013, making further use of the illegal connections between China and Pakistan to consolidate their bilateral ties including Shaksgam Valley to China in 1963. "We have been publically opposing Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and CPEC as a violation of our sovereignty right from 2013 onwards," added Sibal. Moreover, China and Pakistan have illegally cooperated in the nuclear sector in violation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), a legal instrument treated as the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. "This collaboration (China and Pakistan) began long before BJP came to power. In the 1980s, China transferred nuclear missile technology to Pakistan. China also transferred designs of nuclear weapons to Pakistan and all this was done to strategically corner India," said former Indian Foreign Secretary. Regarding the US terming Pakistan as their strategic partner even after Afghanistan's fiasco, where the Taliban took control of the nation in the last mid-August, Sibal said, "This has been their position always in terms of balancing India and Pakistan as much as they can, not understanding the fact that Pakistan has been actually responsible for defeat in Afghanistan. Americans themselves have been talking about Pakistani linkages with the Taliban, the Haqqani group and many others that Islamabad gave shelter who were on UN/US-designated terrorist list, but, they have never allowed the relationship with Pakistan to collapse." "They imposed draconian sanctions on Iran but there were no sanctions against Pakistan," he added. "Much more important than this is the 2005 nuclear deal that India and US signed. Immediately after the deal, the US declared Pakistan as a 'major non-NATO ally', this was to bring about a balance between India and Pakistan in a different way," said Sibal. Responding to China's People's Liberation Army's regimental commander, who had suffered severe injuries during the Galwan clash, became the torchbearer at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Torch Relay, he said, "I think this is again Chinese ploy to mask the fact that they committed aggression against us and honouring the commander by making him the torchbearer at Beijing Winter Olympics. This is a part and parcel of propaganda, psychological warfare by the Chinese." (ANI)
Children who are being home schooled must now be listed on a new register by councils to stop pupils from 'falling through the cracks' amid attendance concerns following lockdowns.

Ministers are to legally require local authorities to log where each child is being educated and to ensure that support is being offered to home schooling families.

It comes as the Covid pandemic has contributed to a rise in children not being educated at school, while more than 500,000 pupils are now missing from at least 10 per cent of lessons - 60,000 higher than pre-pandemic levels.

In the first eight months of the 2020-21 academic year, the number of children dropping out to be home schooled in the UK rose by 75 per cent, according to a BBC investigation.

More than 40,000 pupils were formally taken out of school between September 2020 and April 2021, compared with an average of 23,000 in that period over the previous two years.

Figures from the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) identified 93,514 pupils who were mostly absent between September and December 2020, when schools re-opened after lockdown.

Thousands of others are also thought not to be on school rolls or registered with any authorities, with some cases reported of troubled teenagers being listed as 'home schooled' without any provision at home.

Experts have warned it can leave them vulnerable to grooming by gangs if they simply roam the streets all day.

In addition, Ofsted has highlighted the problem of strict Muslim families registering their children as home schooled and then sending them to secret backstreet madrassas.

These underground schools often do not teach the curriculum, and have been found to be unsafe by inspectors.

As part of 'levelling up' education plans, the Department for Education has said the new register will be introduced at 'the earliest available legislative opportunity'.

Officials say parents who provide a decent education have nothing to fear.

More than 500,000 children are missing from at least 10 per cent of lessons, too - 60,000 higher than pre-pandemic levels. Pictured: Year 10/11 students at Hailsham Community College in East Sussex last month

England's children's commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza (pictured) says she is 'very concerned' that some local authorities are not able to account for all children

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi admits there are 'areas across the country where high standards are not being met'

England's children's commissioner said she wants all children to have a unique identification number across the NHS, school and social services to make it easier to find those missing from the system.

Dame Rachel de Souza added: 'The register of children not in school is vital in making sure that we are able to keep children safe and engaged, wherever they are learning.'

She said she was also 'very concerned' after being shown a spreadsheet of children identified by one police force who were not enrolled and were unknown to authorities during a visit to discuss criminal exploitation, The Times reports.

The children's commissioner has launched an inquiry to find the missing pupils after data from some local authorities showed found only a small number could account for all the children in their respective area.

Data has now been requested for all 150 education authorities and, together with the Department for Education, live attendance data is being piloted so children at risk of harm can be identified faster.

Current figures show the Government the percentage of children absent from lessons, but specific data on whether the same pupil has missed school is not received until months later.

Children with special needs or mental health issues have been identified as two at-risk groups whose attendance has fallen to fewer than half of lessons.

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi admitted there are 'areas across the country where high standards are not being met', adding that the register will help authorities spot and support children who may be receiving an unsuitable education.

His department has pledged to rebuild hundreds of schools across the country and issued updated guidance for headteachers on managing the behaviour of pupils.

This includes the use of exclusions and advising heads to decide whether mobile phones should be in classrooms.

Mr Zahawi said: 'Education is at the heart of this Governments plans to level up, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed no matter where they grow up or what their background.

'While the majority of children already learn in a calm and well-maintained classroom, and some learn at home with dedicated parents, there are areas across the country where high standards are not being met.'

However, the general secretary of school leaders union the National Association of Head Teachers criticised the new guidance on behaviour as 'unhelpful'.

Paul Whiteman said: 'We need to remember that in the vast majority of schools there are no major issues when it comes to behaviour, and that schools already have strong systems in place for supporting good behaviour.

'The Governments current obsession with being seen to "talk tough" on behaviour is frankly unhelpful.

'Instead, what the Government should be focusing on is making sure that vital support services are available to support schools and pupils when they need it.'
Plans to ban mobile phones across schools in England have been scrapped by the government, who have said the matter should be dealt with by head teachers.

Former education secretary Gavin Williamson called phones in the classroom 'distracting' and 'damaging' as he unveiled the proposed ban last summer, in a move that was backed by Children's Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza.

Proponents of the scheme argued it would help address concerns that pupils are using phones to bully each other on social media and for sexual harassment.

But newly revised guidance issued yesterday by the Department for Education has placed the onus back on to school heads, The Times reports.

Head teachers are best placed to make decisions on whether mobile phones should be in classrooms, the guidance stated.

The U-turn emerged on the same day that the governments levelling up plans were published, with a renewed focus on the school rebuilding programme aimed at renovating 300 schools across the country.

Mobiles phones will not be banned in schools in England after the government abandoned earlier proposals

The Association of School and College Leaders (ACSL) had criticised the proposed phones ban and suggested restrictions would 'trigger poor behaviour' among pupils.

Speaking last August, ACSL Director of Policy Julie McCulloch said: 'School and college leaders are slightly mystified about the education secretary's fixation with banning mobile phones in classrooms because they have been dealing with the practicalities of this issue for many years now.

'Our view remains that schools and colleges already have strong tried-and-tested policies and they are best placed to make their own decisions.'

The government's U-turn emerged on the same day that the governments levelling up plans were published, with a renewed focus on the school rebuilding programme aimed at renovating 300 schools across the country.

Under the rebuilding programme, local councils and academy trusts would be able to nominate their schools for refurbishment and save money in the process.

Gavin Williamson announced last June that he wanted to bring in a ban on phones in schools but the Government yesterday abandoned the proposal

Schools minister Baroness Barran told of the real and pressing need to upgrade some schools, adding: Its significant. Were giving more local discretion to identify schools in greatest need.

The environment in which they learn makes a massive difference to pupils.

Despite stepping back from the issue of mobile phones, improving pupils behaviour in schools remains a key area for the government.

It has launched a new public consultation which endeavours to support head teachers to create 'calm, orderly, safe and supportive' school environments.

But some school heads regard the states intervention as unwelcome.

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, said: In the vast majority of schools there are no major issues when it comes to behaviour, and schools already have strong systems in place for supporting good behaviour.

The Association of School and College Leaders (ACSL) suggested restrictions on mobile phones would 'trigger poor behaviour' among pupils

The governments current obsession with being seen to talk tough on behaviour is frankly unhelpful. There is little need for much in the way of additional guidance at this point in time, as schools are already highly skilled in this work.

The union said it was pleased to see acknowledgement that decisions about mobile phones should be left to head teachers.

Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, added: School and college leaders will be astonished that the government thinks it knows best how to create calm, orderly, safe and supportive environments for children and young people to thrive in.

'This is what they and their staff work incredibly hard every single day to achieve.

Other proposals in the government's white paper on levelling up including offering the Duke of Edinburgh Award in all schools and the creation of a new online UK National Academy.
China-Pakistan axis began way back after the 1962 war when both sides felt that India has to be treated as an opponent, said a former secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Former MEA secretary Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty said that Pakistan, in any case, was hostile. He stated that China also became hostile because of the undemarcated border. With Pakistan we all know, its own birth was out of certain hostile conditions that they had created, he said. "Today, it's just stronger because of the fact that Pakistan has lost the support of the USA and China has its own strategic couple of imperatives to reach out into the Arabian sea to the Bay of Bengal what we call is Malacca Dilemma as its economy has grown, it has become much more independent. That's the geopolitical and geo-economics reasons why they have come closer," he said. "I think the China- Pakistan access as I call it began way back after the 1962 war when both sides felt that India has to be treated as an enemy. Pakistan in any case was hostile. China also became hostile because the reasons are clear because of the undemarcated border. With Pakistan we all know, its own birth was out of certain hostile conditions that they had created. There have been a series of steps China and Pakistan have taken which have brought them closer. Not today, but over the last 4-5 decades almost," he added. Pinak Chakravarty said that India is surrounded by hostile countries, to an extent that the word surrounded is not perhaps the right word. "We certainly have China and Pakistan in the west and the north as hostile, but again the dilemma is that India and China may have problems on the Line of Actual Control but otherwise trades are going on. So, there is no such thing," he said. The former MEA secretary said that what is happening of course is a geopolitical game that China and Pakistan are playing. "Mainly China because Pakistan doesn't have the financial muscle to do that. Pakistan has its Islamic network, the radical Islamic network. These are the tools Pakistan uses whereas China is trying to increase its footprints through financial and other aid to trap diplomacy," he said. "Rahul Gandhi has every right to say what he thinks and this is part of democracy. Criticising the government is pretty much part of democracy. As neutral observers, we have our own views and since we have been diplomats and deal with all these issues, I explained that China and Pakistan access is not new," he added. (ANI)
Shark Tank India is easily the most watched and the most entertaining show for Indians at the moment. The best part is that the whole family gets to become a couch potato in peace, while beautifully passing judgements to the candidates. Amidst this fun, a new meme has found its way on the internet.



As you might know, Rannvijay Singha is currently being seen on the show promoting an MBA degree from Upgrad. There is one clip that has suddenly gone viral where he is seen selling this degree to a 26-year-old electrical engineer who is a PhD graduate from IIT.

The comment section is a mixed bag of some weird comments and some jokes on the whole scenario. While some people are asking Upgrad to sell this MBA to Bollywood celebrities, and some are mocking why the Roadies host has been turned into a gatekeeper at Shark Tank.

 Instagram

 Instagram

Well, jokes apart, some people tried to infuse logic in the argument and explained that even though he is a PhD graduate, he still might need an MBA degree. The Roadies judge hit headlines today after he quit the show and is being replaced by Sonu Sood.


Usually we say its the end of an era but in this case, its literally the end of the road as after a long stint of 18 years, the face of Roadies and the first winner, Rannvijay Singha has called it quits. The actor/mentor/host on the show who is currently being seen on Shark Tank India, has bid adieu to his journey with Roadies.



Rannvijays journey with Roadies began as a contestant who won the first season, then hosted it and eventually became a mentor and a judge on the show as well. He is a youth icon in his own accord and his journey is inspiring for many youngsters who look up to him.



There were some rumours around why he decided to leave and few sources cited that his fallout with the new production house taking over was one of the key reasons. However, there have been no confirmations. The most interesting bit in this entire situation is the fact that he might be replaced by none other than everyones favourite, Sonu Sood.

In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, the host cleared the air around him leaving the show. The channel has been a key pillar of my journey and Ill be doing interesting work with them. On this edition of Roadies, things didnt work out from both sides. Our dates were not matching and it is disheartening. Ive been working with the channel for 18 years. Ive done different shows with the network. Production house aur mera koi taal mel hai nahi he said.



The news has obviously spread on social media and has given rise to some very interesting mixed reactions.

So Sonu Sood will be hosting #Roadies now?

Thats not the worst.

Chetan Bhagat hosting Nach Baliye still tops the list.



#2022 just got a lil more darker  Anubhav Talukdar (@AnubhavTalukdar) February 3, 2022

Kk doesn't want to go back in roadies.. He said that in BB.. But I don't want to see sonu sood in roadies.. Sonu is a good actor no doubt.. But roadies is something else.. Bhai gurmeet ko lelo isse accha  Tej-Ran Fan (@AnanyaM05814117) February 3, 2022

The new season will start shooting in South Africa from 14th February.

Source: Hindustan Times
Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan speaking to the media at the ICC in Belfast following the signing of the Belfast Region City Deal. Picture date: Wednesday December 15, 2021. (PA Wire)

Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan is expected to announce his resignation later on Thursday.

The move is part of the partys protest strategy against the Brexit-related Northern Ireland Protocol and follows his DUP ministerial colleague Edwin Pootss decision to order a halt to agri-food checks at the regions ports.

It is understood senior DUP figures met on Thursday to confirm the timing and details of Mr Givans resignation statement.

An announcement is expected on Thursday afternoon, a senior party source said.

The source said Mr Givans resignation would be effective immediately.

The latest twists in the protocol controversy are playing out as Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and European Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic are due to meet on Thursday to discuss progress in their ongoing negotiations aimed at reducing the Brexit barriers on Irish Sea trade.

The resignation of the First Minister would automatically remove Sinn Fein deputy First Minister Michelle ONeill from office.

In those circumstances, other ministers in the administration could still remain in place. However, the Executive could not meet or make any significant decisions.

That would prevent the coalition from agreeing a three-year budget  a spending plan that is currently out for public consultation.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson (PA) (PA Wire)

A planned official state apology by Mr Givan and Ms ONeill to victims of historic institutional abuse, scheduled for March, would also not happen.

Ministers may also be prevented from removing any remaining Covid-19 restrictions in Northern Ireland.

Ms ONeill has branded the DUP tactics as a stunt motivated by poor opinion poll performances ahead of Mays scheduled Assembly election.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has repeatedly threatened to bring down the Stormont institutions in protest against the so-called Irish Sea border, introduced as part of the post-Brexit protocol.

The Executive was only reconstituted in 2020 after a three year powersharing impasse triggering by a row about a botched green energy scheme.

Story continues

The Government said it would not be drawn on speculation around Mr Givans future.

Scenes from the @daera_ni checking facility for GB agri-food goods at Belfast Port shortly after the 6am ferry arrived from Cairnryan.



Lorries still being received.@PA pic.twitter.com/32soN1sp4B  David Young (@DavidYoungPA) February 3, 2022

Prime Minister Boris Johnsons official spokesman said: The Governments priority is for a resilient Northern Ireland Executive and we want to continue to build on the Good Friday Agreements promise of a stable, co-operative powersharing executive.

Mr Poots issued a unilateral direction on Wednesday evening, instructing officials to stop the agri-food checks at midnight.

However, on Thursday the checks appeared to be continuing.

DUP rivals at Stormont insist Mr Pootss direction is unlawful and civil servants are obliged to follow the law at all times.

Lorries were still being received at a Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) checking facility in Belfast Port on Thursday morning.

Several vehicles entered the facility after the ferry arrived from Cairnryan in Scotland at 6am. A steady flow of lorries continued to arrive after other ferries docked during the morning.

European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer said the EUs observers in Northern Ireland were satisfied the required checks were still being carried out.

For the moment our indications are that the checks are ongoing, he said.

Westminster has insisted the operation of the checks is a matter for Stormont but Mr Mamer stressed the deal was between the UK and the EU, not between Brussels and Belfast.

What concerns us is not what are the arrangements that are found within the United Kingdom on who is responsible for taking what decision when it comes to the checks, but the fact that the provisions that are in the agreement, on the checks which are foreseen by the agreement, will be respected.

A heavy goods vehicle is checked at the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs checking site at Belfast Docks on Thursday (Peter Morrison/PA). (PA Wire)

The picture is further clouded due to the fact some of the port checks have been delegated to local council staff, while UK Border Force personnel also have a presence at the facilities. It is unclear what would happen to their roles if the Daera staff withdrew.

Mr Pootss direction only relates to the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) checks required by the protocol. The customs procedures on Irish Sea trade are unaffected by his instruction.

Announcing the move on Wednesday, Mr Poots said legal advice he had sought on the issue supported his view that he was entitled to stop the checks.

The UK Government has said it will not intervene in what it has characterised as a matter that falls within the Stormont Executive.

Government critics dispute this contention, highlighting that the UK has a duty under international law to abide by the terms of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement.

DUP Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots (Niall Carson/PA) (PA Wire)

Downing Street has denied claims the development is a stitch-up between the Government and the DUP.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said Mr Johnson was not aware of the DUP plan to suspend the checks.

We certainly werent aware that this was the approach the DUP were going to take, he said.

Im not sure what preparatory work has gone on, on the basis this could happen.

Asked if the Prime Minister would like to see the checks continue, the spokesman said: Yes, we would like this situation to be resolved, recognising it is a matter for the Northern Ireland Executive.

Pressed on whether the checks could be carried out at ports in Great Britain rather than on arrival in Northern Ireland, the spokesman said: We are looking into the legal position.

No significant announcements are expected to emerged from Thursdays talks between Ms Truss and Mr Sefcovic.

Sinn Fein deputy First Minister Michelle ONeill (PA) (PA Wire)

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: The talks are progressing well, as the Foreign Secretary has set out herself, and we do want to achieve a swift resolution.

We have seen some movement from the EU in previous months but there is still much more to do.

Reacting to the attempt to halt the checks, an EC spokesperson said: The European Commission has been working tirelessly with the UK Government to address practical challenges related to the implementation of the protocol.

The decision by the Northern Irish Minister for Agriculture is therefore unhelpful.

It creates further uncertainty and unpredictability for businesses and citizens in Northern Ireland.

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and EU post-Brexit negotiator Maros Sefcovic (PA) (PA Wire)

Mr Pootss order came after he last week failed to secure the wider approval of the Stormont Executive to continue the checks.

The minister argues that in the absence of Executive approval, he no longer has legal cover to continue the documentary checks and physical inspections.

His bid to seek a ministerial vote at the Executive last week was branded an electoral stunt by other parties, and Sinn Fein used its veto to prevent the issue from getting on the agenda.

The other parties insist the Executive has already agreed Mr Pootss department has responsibility for carrying out the checks and he does not have the authority to halt processes that are required under the Withdrawal Agreement, an international treaty.
Jaipur, Feb 3 : Rajasthan BJP chief Satish Poonia has vowed to skip dinner and not accept garlands till the time the saffron party returns to power in the desert state. He shall also not wear 'safa' till the time the Congress government is uprooted from Rajasthan and BJP returns to power with absolute majority.

Speaking exclusively to IANS while on his way to campaign in the poll-bound state of Uttar Pradesh, Poonia said, "Party workers have been bringing garlands, bouquets and other gifts for me. However, I have told them that let's bring our party back to power first and only then shall I accept these garlands and bouquets. It will be a big moment, so let's all work together. I will also not have dinner till BJP returns to power with absolute majority." Talking to this correspondent, Poonia spoke on a range of issues plaguing the party in Rajasthan and said that the 2023 Assembly polls shall see fresh candidates.

"We have plans to field around 50 per cent fresh faces to ensure new workers get the chance to prove themselves; I am working on a model to ensure each of our booth worker knows each member of the party, that's how we are building bonds with the people at the grassroots level," he said.

When asked about the fractions hitting the party's prospects in Rajasthan, Poonia said, "I am keeping a close watch on all the developments taking place within the party. I have been travelling to the interiors to strengthen the grassroots base. Many strategic initiatives have been taken by our party workers and that's the reason why the BJP stood strong in the panchayat polls, giving a tough time to the ruling Congress." Poonia also looked quite comfortable when asked why former CM Vasundhara Raje cannot be seen campaigning for the Assembly polls in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh when other leaders are leading from the front.

"She is our national vice-president and the party high command knows who needs to be given what charge; these are issues that are decided from the party office," he said.

It needs to be mentioned here that Raje and her team has been maintaining a distance from party meetings ever since Poonia was elevated to the post of Rajasthan BJP chief.

Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who is an MP from Jodhpur, is BJP's in-charge for Punjab elections, while Poonia has also been assigned to campaign for the party in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

Speaking on the fractions within the party from the time he assumed charge as state unit chief, Poonia said, "I am a humble worker of the party, and I am working with honesty to take everyone along. We are like a big family where there are issues, but they are also resolved."
Big celebs fighting or nursing a rivalry is a very common sighting in the world of Bollywood. We have seen two big Khans of Bollywood take potshots at each other for a long time. You all know how Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan turned enemies before they finally let bygones be bygones.

Theres one more controversial fight that became the talk of town more than a decade ago. Known for her witty revelations, Sonam Kapoor has been one of the most expressive actresses in Bollywood and she has often crossed a thin line of respecting her seniors in the industry.

Back in 2009, Sonam became the ambassador of a beauty brand, which was endorsed by Aishwarya and the latter seemed to have expressed her discontentment at the same.

Following this, Sonam made a controversial statement and called Aishwarya "aunty". When she was asked about her statement in an interview with Hindustan Times, she had said, "Aish has worked with my dad so I have to call her aunty na!"

After this caused a stir, she tried to pacify the statement by saying that she would never do this and her quote was misconstrued. Sonam was also quoted as saying, It's all gossip. I never said any of that. I don't want to remark on it anymore. A lot has been printed and said and it's all turned into very untidy and filthy, and I don't wish to get into it anymore. I really respect Abhishek as a person and had one of my best experiences working in Delhi 6. Aishwarya Rai is Aishwarya Rai. I never said that. I would address her in a deferential way, but I would never call her aunty.

There were reports that Aishwarya was disappointed with her statements but Sonam did clarify that she meant no harm to Aishwarya. She basically meant that they both belong to two different generations.

According to many reports published in the year 2011, both Aishwarya and Sonam had to together walk the ramp of the Cannes Film Festival in France. It is also alleged that Aish refused to walk with Sonam. Aish also threatened that shell quit, if Sonam is allowed to share the platform with her.

Well, the two did bury the hatchet and decided to let go of their Cold War. Sonam personally invited Aishwarya to her wedding with Anand Ahuja. Aishwarya also obliged by attending the wedding reception.

We are glad that the two have moved past it.
Bengaluru, Feb 3 : Communal cauldron in Coastal Karnataka region is back to bubbling with the hijab row as the controversy is threatening to engulf the entire state dividing students on communal basis.

Considered as the bastion of ruling BJP and strong Hindutva ground, the Coastal Karnataka comprising the districts of Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada and Udupihas, has always been seen as a communally sensitive region.

The region surfaced at the global level for moral policing, active ISIS modules, and attacks on churches, communal tensions and cases of love jihad. Yasin Bhatkal, listed in NIA's most wanted until his arrest and who has been sentenced to death, and Shafi Armar, whose photographs as ISIS commander in Syria, also hail from the coastal region.

The NIA has submitted charge sheet against Deepthi Marla a.k.a Maryam, the granddaughter-in-law of Congress Late MLA Idinabba from Dakshina Kannada district for running a terrorist network in Karnataka and recruiting gullible Muslim youth to terrorist outfit ISIS.

During the Congress government headed by Siddaramaiah, as many as 18 youths associated with Hindu organisations were lynched. Each of the murders have caused simmering communal tensions between the Hindus and Muslims in the coastal districts. While the BJP demanded a ban on Popular Front of India (PFI) and its political wing Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), the progressive organisations squarely blamed Hindu organisations for the situation.

Riding on the Hindutva wave, ruling BJP managed to win most of the seats in the coastal region in the last Assembly elections. In Dakshina Kannada district Congress managed to retain only one seat. Ruling BJP is claiming that, since Karnataka is stepping into the election year and Assembly elections are scheduled for 2023, various forces are in action for dividing votes with these moves. However, Congress and SDPI level the same allegations on ruling BJP.

The hijab row started with six students of Government Udupi Pre-University College being sent out of classes for wearing veils along with uniform a month ago. The students have demanded that they should be allowed to wear hijab as it is their constitutional and religious right. However, college management flatly refused their demand saying that the rule which has been in place since decades regarding uniforms does not allow wearing of hijab.

The ruling BJP has constituted a high-level committee to look into the issue of allowing hijab with uniform to colleges and schools. Though, there is government order, the protesting Muslim students are saying that they will not shun hijab no matter what. They have also moved to the High Court seeking directions to the government to allow them to wear hijab to classrooms.

Meanwhile, the hijab row is threatening to snowball into a big crisis in the state as the trend is being replicated by other colleges leading to create communal divide between student communities. Hindu students in other colleges have starting to attend classes in saffron shawls to counter the wearing of hijab by Muslim girl students. The hijab versus saffron shawl issue surfaced Kundapur Pre-University College in Udupi district, Bhandarkar's College in Kundapur and Sir M Vishweshwaraya Government College Arts and Commerce Degree College in Bhadravathi of Shivamogga district.

Araga Jnanendra, Karnataka Home Minister stated that the directions have already been given to the police department to take up the investigation on communal forces behind the hijab row in the state. "The investigation is underway. We will not spare the elements which come in the way of unity of this country," he stated.

"Naquab, burqa, hijab, saffron or green shawls are not allowed in the classrooms. The minister for Education has already stated that uniforms are compulsory for students. There should not be any divisive factors in the academic environment. There are mosques, churches and temples for religious practices," the Home Minister explained. "With these developments, the etiquette of integrity is being challenged," he added.

Education Minister B.C. Nagesh has stated that until the report of the high-level committee is given and the government takes a call on the issue, wearing of hijab is not allowed in the classrooms. Protesting Muslim students have defied the orders and Hindu students have started to come to colleges wearing saffron shawls. They claim that if Muslims shun hijabs, they won't come to colleges in saffron attire which symbolises Hindutva. The college managements are in a fix over how the situation is unfolding and turning towards the government.

Muneer Katipalla, President of Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) while speaking to IANS stated that, since more than three-and-a-half decades, the coastal region in Karnataka has been made Hindutva laboratory by RSS. Now, Popular Front of India (PFI) is growing stronger like RSS among Muslims. Since both organisations have made the coastal districts as laboratories for their communal agendas, the situation has gone to the extreme levels here.

PFI and SDPI have won few seats in local elections and they are aggressively pursuing their agenda. Their philosophy is to counter RSS with its own strategy. At the Udupi Government Pre-University College there was no permission for wearing hijab. However, Government College at Kundapur hijab was allowed. The entire academic atmosphere is spoiled, Muneer Katipalla explained.

The insecurity among Muslims in the region is growing. Earlier, students protested for price rise, bus pass, employment, fee hike, commercialization of education, unemployment, now it has come down to hijab and saffron shawls. The students must focus on education. The government must allow both hijab and saffron shawls, the problem will subside in some time, he explained.

There is an opportunity for children belonging to different faiths to study together at college and high school levels. Now, there are demands that these students can go to the respective religious institutions so that they don't have problems with wearing hijab. If that happens, it will be more dangerous and how will you bring Indianness among student community, Muneer Katipalla questions.

Lavanya Ballal, AICC Spokesperson and AICC Social Media Coordinator stated to IANS, the foundation stone of the nation is unity in diversity. "Youngsters of coastal Karnataka should focus on education, it is the only way up further. Focus on building you your lives, do not get caught in political war because they only want you to be political stooges. Coastal Karnataka since last two decades known for religious acrimony. What we need to understand is we need big investments by IT and other companies at coastal Karnataka as youth needs jobs that should be our focus. The jobs will only come to coastal Karnataka if there is peace and harmony. With peace and harmony we will prosper. Please do not becomes the pawns of political games," she underlines.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : A man was held with 610 kilograms of ganja (cannabis) worth Rs 40 lakh by the Crime Branch of the Delhi Police, officials said on Thursday.

A senior police official said the accused has been identified as Jasbir.

The police got a tip-off that a huge consignment of ganja was being transported by a truck and the consignment was supposed to reach Delhi.

A trap was laid and the truck was intercepted near Nirankari Grounds, Mukherjee Nagar. During the search of the truck, bags containing ganja were recovered. The police found a secret cavity created inside the truck, which was specially designed for the purpose of smuggling.

Jasbir told tbe police that he along with his other associates Neeraj Pandey, Sandeep and others used to smuggle ganja from Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

They have bought and sold ganja from Andhra Pradesh and Odisha several times since 2021.

Jasbir has a past criminal record and was involved in a number of cases, including bootlegging, robbery and vehicle theft.

He was produced before the court, which sent him on eight days police remand. The police have launched a man hunt to nab Neeraj Pandey, Sandeep and others in Panipat.

The Crime Beanch will also visit Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh to locate the source.
TEHRAN, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and his counterpart of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, have discussed bilateral relations and regional issues in a phone conversation, state TV reported on Thursday.

During the conversation held on Wednesday, Amir Abdollahian described bilateral relations as "positive and progressive," saying that Tehran and Abu Dhabi have held "good meetings and consultations" over issues of mutual concern.

Referring to the ongoing crisis in Yemen, Amir Abdollahian said that "we believe the continuation of war and spread of conflicts and disputes are not in the interest of either side (in Yemen) or in the favor of the region."

For his part, the UAE foreign minister noted that his government is serious about developing relations with Iran and considers it necessary to continue the dialogue in various fields.

With respect to the political crisis in Yemen, he said his country is trying to encourage all Yemeni parties to reach a political solution with the support of the United Nations. 
Software developer John McAfee at The Epoch Times headquarters in New York on Nov. 16, 2016. (The Epoch Times)

Software Pioneer John McAfees Body Still in Prison Morgue Freezer in Spain Over 7 Months After Death: Report

The body of antivirus pioneer John McAfee has yet to be released from a Spanish prison more than seven months after his death, according to his family.

McAfee was arrested last October at the Barcelona airport on a warrant issued by Tennessee prosecutors who accused him of evading more than $4 million in taxes.

The 75-year-old software pioneer died on June 23, 2021, just hours after a Spanish court ruled that he could be extradited to the United States on the tax evasion charges.

However, his body is still in a prison morgue freezer somewhere in or near Barcelona as Spanish Judge Victor Espigares Jimenez, who is presiding over the investigation into McAfees cause of death is still probing the incident, his daughter, ex-wife, and lawyers told MarketWatch.

In the meantime, the software entrepreneurs daughter and ex-wife are reportedly separately fighting for custody over his body.

To my knowledge, they have done nothing to the body, Joy Athanasiou, the attorney who is representing McAfees daughter Jen, told MarketWatch. It has been sitting there [in a freezer in a Spanish prison morgue] all these months.

Athanasiou added that while it was unclear what exactly was causing the hold-up, slow proceedings in the Spanish court and possibly a backlog of medical examinations of COVID-19-related deaths in Spain may have contributed to the delay.

Jen McAfee said she wants her fathers remains transported to the United States so that he can be cremated but has recently given up her legal claim to his body to prevent additional delays.

Athanasiou also said that she had expected amicable negotiations with Javier Villalba, the lawyer for McAfees ex-wife, Janice McAfee, and that the process would run smoothly and quickly.

However, Athanasiou and Nishay Sanan, the lawyer who represented McAfee in extradition cases while he was imprisoned in Spain, told MarketWatch that negotiations had stalled partly because they had been unable to reach Janice McAfee.

Meanwhile, the Spanish court has reportedly insisted that Athanasiou represent Jen McAfee in person or find a local attorney to represent her, creating further problems.

We need someone physically there to file documents or formal court actions, Athanasiou said. We have communicated through email as well as online communications systems in Spain, but it does not count as a formal submission.

Officials in Spain said that McAfees cause of death was likely suicide, however his widow Janice McAfee claimed that his death was not suicide and that the U.S. federal government was responsible.

I blame the U.S. authorities for this tragedy. Because of these politically motivated charges against him. My husband is now dead, she told reporters in June last year, adding that he wasnt suicidal.

His last words to me were, I love you and I will call you in the evening,' Janice McAfee said. He would have never quit this way, he would never take his life in this way, ever.

McAfees last words to her were not words of somebody who is suicidal, his ex-wife said.

In December, Janice McAfee wrote on Twitter that since Johns death there has been an effort to guarantee that I would not make it to my next birthday although I believe the ultimate goal is to ensure that I do not leave Spain alive.

It is unclear exactly where Janice McAfee is currently residing.

The investigation into Johns death continues its tediously slow crawl to a conclusion which is keeping me in Spain because they wont release Johns body until the investigation closes. Allegedly this is procedure, she wrote. Obviously, the dragging out of the investigation is meant to keep us from finding out what happened to John and I also believe its meant to keep me here in Spain.

Apparently I am a loose end that needs tying up, she added in the post.

The Epoch Times has contacted Janice McAfee and Spanish authorities for comment.
Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africas first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) operator, has announced the introduction of a new route to Osh, in Kyrgyzstan from Sharjah starting February 20, 2022.

The new service represents the second city that Air Arabia flies to after Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan.

Located in the south of the country and referred to as the capital of the south, Osh is considered the second largest and oldest city is Kyrgyzstan which represents a major economic and cultural centre of the country.

Osh invites business and leisure travellers to enjoy its unique charm and mystery of the ancient East. Featuring an epic mountain panoramic view, architectural marvels and bazaars.

Customers can now book their direct flights between Sharjah and Osh by visiting Air Arabias website, by calling the call centre or through travel agencies.

Ensuring the highest standards of safety at every step of the journey by following all health and safety protocols, Air Arabia has also added to the convenience and confidence of passengers by introducing free Covid-19 insurance coverage.

The insurance is automatically included as part of the booking and no additional documents are required from passengers.-- TradeArabia News Service
It's the ultimate challenge for climbers around the world, but the option to climb Mount Everest could be at risk  thanks to climate change.

New research has revealed how Mount Everest's highest glacier, South Col Glacier, is losing decades-worth of ice annually amid rising temperatures.

Worryingly, this could lead to more avalanches and decreased water supply, upon which more than one billion people depend for drinking water and irrigation.

The increased melting could also make Mount Everest even more challenging to scale with more exposed bedrock, according to the team from the University of Maine.

'Climate predictions for the Himalaya suggest continued warming and continued glacier mass loss, and even the top of the Everest is impacted by anthropogenic source warming,' said Mariusz Potocki, a glaciochemist who worked on the study.

New research has revealed how Mount Everest's highest glacier, South Col Glacier, is losing decades-worth of ice annually amid rising temperatures

The Everest Expedition The 2019 National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet Everest Expedition was the most comprehensive scientific expedition to Mount Everest in history. As part of the study, the team installed two weather stations, and collected and ice core from the top of Mount Everest. The weather stations stand at 27,657ft (8,420 metres) and 26,066ft (7,945 metres), making them the highest weather stations in the world. Meanwhile, the ice core was taken at 26,312ft (8,020 metres), making it the highest of its kind. Advertisement

The findings come from the 2019 National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet Everest Expedition  the most comprehensive single scientific expedition to Mount Everest in history.

As part of the study, the team installed two weather stations, and collected an ice core from the top of Mount Everest.

The weather stations stand at 27,657ft (8,420 metres) and 26,066ft (7,945 metres), making them the highest weather stations in the world.

Meanwhile, the ice core was taken at 26,312ft (8,020 metres), making it the highest of its kind.

An analysis of the ice core revealed estimated ice thinning rates of around 6.5ft (2 metres) per year.

According to the researchers, this is largely due to the fact that the glacier has turned from snowpack to ice, meaning it has lost its ability to reflect solar radiation, and in turn increasing melting.

Worryingly, the findings also suggest that around 180ft (55 metres) of the glacier has thinned in the past quarter-century, thinning over 80 times faster than the nearly 2,000 years it took to form.

South Col Glacier is extremely exposed, meaning that while warming air temperatures were the main cause of the melting, strong winds are also a factor.

The findings come from the 2019 National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet Everest Expedition  the most comprehensive single scientific expedition to Mount Everest in history

Overall the findings point to the critical balance that snow-covered surfaces provide to Mount Everest.

In their paper, the researchers wrote: 'Everest's highest glacier has served as a sentinel for this delicate balance and has demonstrated that even the roof of the Earth is impacted by anthropogenic source warming.'

The team hopes the findings will highlight the widespread effects of warming temperatures around the world.

Paul Mayewski, co-author of the study, added: 'It answers one of the big questions posed by our 2019 NGS/Rolex Mount Everest Expedition  whether the highest glaciers on the planet are impacted by human-source climate change.

As part of the study, the team installed two weather stations, and collected an ice core from the top of Mount Everest. Red arrow indicates where the ice core was taken, while the yellow arrow shows the location of the Balcony weather station

'The answer is a resounding yes, and very significantly since the late 1990s.'

The study comes shortly after researchers from the University of Leeds warned that Himalayan glaciers are melting at an 'exceptional rate' and could threaten the supply of water for hundreds of millions of people in Asia.

Researchers found that Himalayan glaciers have lost ice 10 times more quickly over the last few decades  predominantly since the year 2000  than on average since the Little Ice Age hundreds of years ago.

The Little Ice Age was a period of major mountain-glacier expansion that spanned from around the early 14th century through to the mid-19th century, when rivers froze over and crops were decimated.

Himalayan glaciers are also now shrinking far more rapidly than glaciers in other parts of the world, which is raising sea levels, the study also found.

This accelerating melting has implications for hundreds of millions of residents who depend on Asia's major rivers for food and energy  including the Brahmaputra, Ganges and Indus.
World sales company Global Screen has released the first-look image of Recipes for Love and Murder, which has been chosen for Berlinale Series Market Selects lineup at the European Film Market. Acorn has the rights to the series for the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.

The 10-part South African and U.K. English-language co-production stars Maria Doyle Kennedy, whose credits include Outlander and The Tudors.

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Recipes for Love and Murder, described by Global Screen as a charming, quirky murder mystery series, is based on the novel by best-selling South African author Sally Andrew, Recipes for Love and Murder: A Tannie Maria Mystery. The novel has been published in numerous countries including the U.K., South Africa, the U.S., Canada, China, Australia, France and Germany.

Filmed in South Africa and Scotland, the series centers on Maria Purvis (Kennedy), an empathetic, accomplished recipe advice columnist for a small-town gazette, who investigates the murder of one of her correspondents. The show will premiere in South Africa on M-Net this March.

Recipes for Love and Murder is a co-production between M-Net, AMC Networks Acorn TV and Both Worlds Pictures, in co-operation with Global Screen.

Thierry Cassuto (Puppet Nation, Rainbow Warrior), founder of International Emmy-nominated Cape Town-based Both Worlds Pictures, is producing the series in collaboration with Scotlands Pirate Productions, with development support provided by Creative Scotland, and Paris-based Paradoxal.

The show was adapted for TV by Karen Jeynes (Puppet Nation, Point of Order), who is also executive producer, along with Scotland-based writer/director Annie Griffin (Avenue 5). The series is directed by Christiaan Olwagen (Kanarie, Poppie Nongena) and Karen Jeynes. As well as Doyle Kennedy, the cast includes Tony Kgoroge (Invictus, Blood Diamond) and newcomer Kylie Fisher.

Story continues

In the show, Martine, a woman who has written to Maria about her abusive husband, is found dead. Maria joins forces with her local, risk-taking, rookie journalist colleague, Jessie September (Fisher), to solve the murder and catch the killer  before the local police find more victims.

Between cooking rich mutton curry, decadent chocolate cake, answering letters and getting in the way of the local policemen, Maria and Jessie are determined to solve this murder mystery and catch the killer. But the killer might be following their traces just as quickly as they are hunting him.

Dana Hofinger-Lenz, VP, international acquisitions and co-productions at Global Screen, commented: Set in the beautiful landscape of South Africas Karoo and in Scotland, Recipes for Love and Murder combines stunning locations, culinary arts and quirky characters. Hofinger-Lenz added that in the midst of the pandemic, audiences worldwide are craving escapist premium programs that help us forget our demanding and often restricted daily lives and whisk us away to places of longing.

Thierry Cassuto, executive producer and founder of Both Worlds Pictures, said: This story is part romance, part small town comedy, part celebration of cooking but above all a murder mystery set in a region of South Africa few people around the world have seen before, with a distinctive look and tone made possible by the unique depth and diversity of talent available in this part of the continent.

Episodes 1 and 2 of Recipes for Love and Murder will premiere at Berlinale Series Market Selects at screenings on Feb. 15 at 3.30 p.m. and Feb. 17 at 12 p.m.

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Research News

UB research to benefit from Empire Discovery Institute partnership with Novo Nordisk

By CORY NEALON and EMPIRE DISCOVERY INSTITUTE

Its our mission to support early-stage research. Through incubating and providing resources to accelerate innovative drug discovery and development projects, we will ensure scientific and operational success and move drugs to market at a faster rate. 

The Empire Discovery Institute and global pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk A/S have formed a five-year partnership to commercialize life sciences research from the institutes academic partners, including UB.

The new initiative, called LeapRx, aims to accelerate the speed in which academic research discoveries are turned into pharmaceuticals. It also will involve Empire Discovery Institutes two other partners, the University of Rochester and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Its our mission to support early-stage research. Through incubating and providing resources to accelerate innovative drug discovery and development projects, we will ensure scientific and operational success and move drugs to market at a faster rate, says Rick Gardner, UB associate vice president for economic development.

LeapRx will provide financial support and pharmaceutical industry expertise to researchers at UB, Rochester and Roswell. Through the initiative, Empire Discovery Institute will work closely with the recently formed Novo Nordisk Bio Innovation Hub in Massachusetts.

We look forward to working with our R&D collaboration partners at Novo Nordisk. By bringing together scientific innovation, pharmaceutical industry expertise and funding, our mission is to facilitate the efficient translation of fundamental scientific discoveries into important new medicines for commercialization, says Martin Graham, CEO of Empire Discovery Institute.

For Novo Nordisk, the partnership represents a continuation of its dedication to support life science ecosystems in the Northeast U.S.

The intersection between fundamental academic research and pharmaceutical R&D is where we believe we can uncover the innovation that will lead to medicines of the future. We are excited to see what early-stage research projects we can support the development of through our collaboration with [Empire Discovery Institute] and participating academic institutions, says Uli Stilz, vice president of Novo Nordisk Bio Innovation Hub.

LeapRx will focus on areas of mutual interest to Empire Discovery Institute and Novo Nordisk, specifically therapies for diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2), obesity, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), chronic kidney disease and rare blood disorders.

Empire Discovery Institutes early-stage drug discovery and development expertise  along with Novo Nordisks scientific, regulatory, clinical, commercial and marketing capabilities  will help advance the discovery, development and commercialization of innovative, breakthrough medicines, leaders say.

Development of promising drug targets or novel compounds will benefit from this co-investment and accelerate breakthrough medicines that could reach patients faster, says Jeff Dunbar, director of technology transfer at UB. UB investigators will co-develop milestone-based work plans with LeapRx pharmaceutical experts designed to add patient and commercial value.
The International Space Station (ISS) photographed by Expedition 56 crew members from a Soyuz spacecraft after undocking, on Oct. 4, 2018. (NASA/Roscosmos)

International Space Station Could Be Taken out of Orbit in 2031, Crashed Into Pacific Ocean: NASA

NASA will keep operating the International Space Station (ISS) until the end of 2030, after which it could be taken out of orbit in January 2031 and crashed into a remote part of the Pacific Ocean known as Point Nemo, officials have said.

According to newly published plans (pdf) detailing the next decade of goals for ISS operations, which will eventually lead to a smooth transition to commercial services, the ISS will be crashed into an area known as the South Pacific Oceanic Uninhabited Area (SPOUA), also referred to as Point Nemo.

Point Nemo is located 1,670 miles (2,688 kilometers) from Antarctica, the farthest point from any landmass, and its estimated that more than 263 spacecraft and satellites have been sunk there since 1971.

Once there, ISS operators will perform the ISS reentry burn, providing the final push to lower ISS as much as possible and ensure safe atmospheric entry.

NASAs report said that its latest budget estimate assumed that the deorbit would happen in January 2031, although these assumptions and the associated costs, which include space transportation costs, will continue to be refined each budget cycle.

The ISS is a large spacecraft in orbit around Earth at an average altitude of approximately 250 miles. It travels at 17,500 mph (28,163 kph), meaning it orbits Earth every 90 minutes and can support a crew of six people, as well as visitors.

It was designed for human beings to have an ongoing presence in space, and the stations unique science laboratory means that astronauts and cosmonauts of several nations are able to conduct scientific research that could not be done anywhere else.

The first piece of ISS was launched in November 1998 and the first crew arrived on Nov. 2, 2000.

Since then, the station, which has the volume of a five-bedroom house or two Boeing 747 jetliners, has allowed more than 3,600 researchers in 106 countries to conduct more than 2,500 experiments.

NASA said that while ISS has served to support deep space exploration, commercially operated space platforms would replace the ISS in the future amid a thriving space economy.

The private sector is technically and financially capable of developing and operating commercial low-Earth orbit destinations, with NASAs assistance. We look forward to sharing our lessons learned and operations experience with the private sector to help them develop safe, reliable, and cost-effective destinations in space, said Phil McAlister, director of commercial space at NASA Headquarters in a statement.

The report we have delivered to Congress describes, in detail, our comprehensive plan for ensuring a smooth transition to commercial destinations after retirement of the International Space Station in 2030.

NASA said goals for the next decade include using the ISS as analog for a Mars transit mission, and validating critical exploration technologies such as Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS) that are most effectively conducted on ISS, according to the report.

The International Space Station is entering its third and most productive decade as a groundbreaking scientific platform in microgravity, said Robyn Gatens, director of the International Space Station at NASA Headquarters.

This third decade is one of results, building on our successful global partnership to verify exploration and human research technologies to support deep space exploration, continue to return medical and environmental benefits to humanity, and lay the groundwork for a commercial future in low-Earth orbit.

We look forward to maximizing these returns from the space station through 2030 while planning for transition to commercial space destinations that will follow, Gatens added.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Supreme Court on Thursday adjourned hearing on a plea seeking review of its May 15, 2018 verdict, letting off Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu with a mere Rs 1,000 fine in a 1988 road rage case where a Patiala resident had died, till after the February 20 Punjab Assembly elections.

A bench of Justices A.M. Khanwilkar and Sanjay Kishan Kaul cited a letter circulated by Sidhu's counsel seeking adjournment in the matter.

Senior advocate P. Chidambaram, representing Sidhu, submitted that a new advocate on record has been engaged in the matter and he was informed of the matter late last night. As he urged the bench to list the matter for hearing after February 21, Justice Khanwilkar said there is a statement in the letter that the matter was listed unexpectedly, but it was already on the advanced list.

The bench queried Chidambaram: "You want adjournment till what date?" He requested for four weeks adjournment in the matter. The bench told Chidambaram that the matter was notified much earlier, notice on review petitions were issued in September 2018, but the accused has not filed a reply so far.

Senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, representing the petitioner, said the other party was served in September and requested the bench to hear the matter after two weeks.

As Justice Kaul quipped: "Two weeks are crucial for him (Sidhu)", the bench told Luthra: "You haven't come since 2018 and now you want the matter to be heard after 2 weeks? Nothing will happen if the matter is not heard for 2 or 4 weeks." After a brief hearing in the matter, the top court scheduled the hearing in the matter on February 25.

In 2018, the top court had let off Sidhu saying there was no sufficient evidence to prove the harsher charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder against him.

Sidhu was charged under Section 323 of the Indian Penal Code for voluntarily causing hurt, however he was let off with just a fine.

The top court, observing that the incident was more than 30 years old, there was no past hostility between accused and victim, and that no weapon was used by the accused, had set aside the Punjab and Haryana High Court order, which convicted Sidhu of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and sentenced him to three year jail.

The top court noted that Sidhu was wrongly convicted, after examining all evidence, including medical records.
A video has gone viral of a Ukrainian soldier dancing in the snow, showing even under the threat of war some can't resist busting some moves for social media.

With over 125,000 Russian troops currently stationed near Ukraine's borders, and with no sign of a withdrawal, tensions are continuing to rise in the region.

But despite the harsh conditions and impending threat of a Russian invasion, he appears in good spirits as he dances for the camera.

In the Twitter video, the soldier bops up and down, punches the air, throws some disco moves, spins on the spot in the snow, shakes his hips and kicks his feet out as he aims down the scope of what looks like an AK-47 rifle.

A video (pictured) has gone viral of a Ukrainian soldier dancing in the snow, showing even under the threat of war some can't resist posting videos to TikTok

The soldier is covered head-to-toe in camouflage gear and holding the rifle, while dancing to Whitney Houston's 1993 hit 'Queen of the Night'. With the music blaring, he appears to be dancing an improvised version of the Brooklyn Shuffle made famous by the 1977 film 'Saturday Night Fever', while throwing in some extra moves with his AK-47

The soldier is covered head-to-toe in camouflage gear, while dancing to Whitney Houston's 1993 smash hit 'Queen of the Night'.

With the music blaring, he appears to be dancing an improvised version of the Brooklyn Shuffle made famous by the 1977 film 'Saturday Night Fever', while throwing in some extra moves with his AK-47.

It is unknown where the soldier's dance was filmed, but he is shown standing on wide, snowy tracks that appear to have been made by a military vehicle, with a field of shrubbery stretching off into the distance behind him.

The soldier appears to be well-equipped with a helmet and other military gear, while also wearing thick boots, gloves and a face covering to protect against the cold.

On Twitter alone, the video received over 60,000 views.

In response to the military build up, Ukraine has stepped up its own military activities to prepare for a potential invasion order from Russia's President Vladimir Putin.

The country has sent troops east, while NATO countries, including the US and the UK, have sent their own soldiers to the region to bolster defences.

Russian officials deny that an invasion is planned.

Speaking on Thursday, NATO General Jens Stoltenberg expressed that Russia is continuing its military buildup around Ukraine.

He said that it has now deployed more troops and military equipment to Belarus that at any time in the last 30 years.

Ukraine has been battling Moscow-backed insurgencies in two separatist regions since 2014, when Moscow annexed the Crimean peninsula. More than 13,000 people have been killed in the fighting, the last major ongoing war in Europe.

While the United States and Britain have sounded the most strident warnings over a potential Russian attack, there are divisions over how likely it may be.

Kyiv has warned against 'panic' as it seeks to protect its economy and some European allies are far more guarded over the prospect of looming war.

A convoy of Russian armoured vehicles moves along a highway in Crimea, January 18, 2022

French soldiers during exercise at the Winter Camp in Estonia on February 2, 2022

Ukraine's Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov insisted Thursday that 'the probability of a significant escalation as of today is considered low' as Kyiv had not seen Moscow move 'strike groups' to the border.

In a change of language, the White House said Wednesday that it would no longer refer to a Russian invasion of Ukraine as 'imminent' - explaining that the word implied Putin had already made a decision to attack.

But tensions have been aggravated by plans for joint military exercises between Russia and neighbouring Belarus, where Washington claims Moscow is preparing to send 30,000 troops.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu arrived in Belarus on Thursday for talks with strongman leader Alexander Lukashenko and troop inspections ahead of the joint drills with Belarus later this month.

The Russian military said its aviation had held anti-submarine drills in the North Atlantic that had seen British and Norwegian jets scrambled to accompany its aircraft.

A leading humanitarian organisation warned that any escalation in the conflict risked displacing up to two million people along the front line.

'The lives and safety of millions of people in eastern Ukraine hang in the balance,' Jan Egeland, head of the Norwegian Refugee Council, said.
As per the new announcement of the US, aid groups and international banks will violate no sanctions by doing so, Khaama Press reported.

This comes a week after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that Afghanistan is "hanging by a thread".

According to Khaama Press, the US Department of Treasury has said the international banks can process transactions related to humanitarian operations that include settlement, clearing, and transfer through or otherwise involving privately owned and state-owned Afghan depository institutions.

Based on the permission of the US Treasury, these transactions include signing agreements to provide aid directly to the Afghan people, general aid coordination, including import, administration, and sharing the office.

"Payments of taxes, fees, or import duties to, or the purchase or receipt of permits, licences, or public utility services from" the Taliban, Haqqani Network or any entity in which they own more than 50 per cent is authorised for humanitarian operations, the Treasury said, Khaama Press reported.

The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan has deteriorated drastically since the Taliban took control of Kabul.

A combination of a suspension of foreign aid, the freezing of Afghan government assets, and international sanctions on the Taliban, have plunged the country, already suffering from high poverty levels, into a full-blown economic crisis. (ANI)
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 2, ARMENPRESS. A citizen of Armenia was found guilty of making grave insults by a Yerevan court, the first verdict under the new paragraph 137,1 of the Criminal Code since it took effect.

The Armenian parliament criminalized Grave Insults in 2021.

The person who was found guilty was charged on November 5,2021, after calling the Yerevan Police Department and verbally abusing and voicing grave insults towards Prime Minister Pashinyan and the Minister of High-Tech Industry and their families over improper organizing the public transports operations of Yerevan.

The caller confessed in making the insults during questioning.

Under the verdict the defendant is fined 500,000 drams.

The prosecution further said that a total of 263 criminal cases were opened by 2022 under the same article, with 25 being dropped, 5 being suspended and 11 others merging into other criminal cases.

214 other criminal cases are being probed and 31 persons face criminal charges.
This holistic approach to dentistry offers a unique approach to oral health

Unlike most of us, Mandara Cromwell loves going to the dentist. Though she lives in Augusta, Georgia, Cromwell drives two hours each way to see her dentist in Greenville, South Carolina.

In todays dentistry, were doing it wrong, said Cromwell, who has been engaged in health-related work for more than 45 years. We really need to take a different approach. Cromwell, the founder of Cyma Technologies (a company that manufacturers stress and pain-relieving devices), said the right approach is called biological dentistry.

Biological Dentistry

If youre not in a holistic health field, you may not have heard the phrase biological dentistry. Biological dentists believe that problems in the mouth are connected to a persons overall wellness. These natural-minded dentists dont just want to fix your teeth. Instead, biological dentists also try to help their patients optimize their health and well-being by treating the root causes of their oral symptoms.

Biological dentists argue that dental problemsfrom swollen gums to cavitiesare best treated by looking at the whole person and using comprehensive holistic therapies.

In Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, the teeth are connected to all the major organ systems, Cromwell told me. When we do something natural and non-invasive to relax the body, focus on a healthy oral biome, and allow the release of toxic build-up, then the body has the ability to regenerate and take care of itself. Thats the premise of biological dentistry.

According to Cromwell, when the oral biome is out of balance, harmful bacteria and other microorganisms can start to dominate. Eating highly processed foods, having high levels of stress (cortisol levels disturb the pH of the mouth), and other lifestyle factors encourage the overgrowth of unhealthy mouth bacteria, she said.

What Are Your Mouth Problems Trying to Tell You?

Oral health issues, such as bacterial overgrowth or a yeasty white coating on the tongue, are often connected toand perhaps even causingother health conditions. These health problems include heart disease, autoimmune conditions, and even cancer.

Several studies have found that people with poor oral hygiene who suffer from gum disease or tooth loss are often at higher risk for cardiovascular problems and strokes than people who have good oral hygiene. As early as 1996, scientists from Harvard School of Dental Medicine found that men with fewer teeth were at greater risk of heart disorders. Since then, as a team of Australian researchers explained in a 2017 study published in PLoS One, there is increasing evidence linking periodontal disease with [cardiovascular disease] and its adverse outcomes.

A 2019 review and analysis of 10 articles by Lithuanian researchers found a link between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis. And in 2020, a team of researchers from Sichuan University in China found that certain characteristics of a persons oral microbiome (that is, the make-up of bacteria in the mouth) were linked to pancreatic cancer. According to this study, published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, when individuals had Streptococcus and Leptotrichia in their mouths, it was an indication of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. At the same time, individuals who had other strains of bacteria in their mouths seemed to be protected against cancer.

According to Robert H. Shmerling, a medical doctor and senior editor at Harvard Health Publishing, although many studies have shown a link between different health conditions and oral health, researchers arent sure if the harmful bacteria in the mouth are causing damage to other parts of the body, or if the bacteria in the mouth are an indication of a generally weakened immune system, or if there are other reasons for the correlation (smoking, for instance).

Though the question about cause and effect is still open, the paradigm of biological dentistry is to solve health problems related to the mouth and also resolve the patients underlying health issues.

Conventional Dentistry Dangerous

Dr. Griffin Cole, who has been practicing biological dentistry in Austin, Texas, for more than 20 years, argues that traditional, mainstream dentistry may actually be dangerous.

At a health conference in Allen, Texas, in November 2021, Cole said nearly 50 percent of American dentists are still filling cavities with mercury amalgams, despite the well-known and well-documented dangers of mercury to human health.

Cole also pointed out that mainstream dentists mistakenly encourage their clients to use fluoride, which Cole said isnt needed for any reason and shouldnt be in the water.

A key aspect to biological dentistry, according to Cole, is undoing problems that may have been caused by mainstream dentistry. Cole encouraged the audience to learn about safe mercury removal and also educate themselves about no-drill cavity techniques and other techniques to preserve as much of the original tooth as possible when filling cavities. He argued that the best dentists are the ones who take their time with each patient, instead of seeing 20 to 25 patients per day, which, according to Cole, is the average for mainstream dentists.

Safe Mercury Removal

Central Dentist, a practice based in Dallas, Texas, that specializes in holistic dentistry and functional oral health, was another biological dentistry practice at the conference. The Central Dentist Way, according to a handout offered to participants, includes the safe removal of mercury amalgams. Individual responses to mercury vary, but researchers have implicated exposure to mercury to a variety of very troubling health problems, including Alzheimers disease, kidney disease, and even depression.

For this reason, the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology created a set of recommendations for the safe removal of mercury amalgams, called SMART. This technique includes preparing the body for the mercury removal, implementing protective protocols for the patient and the dental team, and using replacement materials for the fillings that are nontoxic to the individual patient.

Avoiding Fluoride

Biological dentists dont advocate the use of fluoride, whether in toothpaste, tooth powders, or drinking water. While conventional dentists argue that fluoride helps strengthen and protect the teeth, biological dentists point out that fluoride is a known neurotoxin and that children who are exposed to fluoride at higher levels score lower on IQ tests than children who are exposed at lower levels. A 2012 systematic review published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives conducted by scientists from Harvards School of Public Health and Chinas Medical University in Shenyang analyzed 27 studies and found a strong indication that fluoride negatively affects childrens cognitive development.

A 2019 study combed 14 subsequent studies and found similar results. Dr. Philippe Grandjean, the studys author, is a Danish-born environmental epidemiologist at Harvard University whose work focuses on the lifelong impacts of early exposure to toxic chemicals. Grandjean concluded that early-life exposure to fluoride was negatively associated with childrens brain abilities and that safe exposures are likely to be below currently accepted or recommended fluoride concentrations in the water.

Using Ozone

Ozone is a reactive manmade compound that consists of three oxygen atoms. Its chemical formula is 03. Ozone is commonly considered harmful because, in its gaseous form, it can be irritating or even poisonous to breathe. Even small amounts of ozone can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, throat irritation, and coughing, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

To use ozone safely, dentists ensure it isnt inhaled. It is applied topically to the teeth with suction used to keep it from entering the lungs. In this manner, dental patients can get the benefits of ozone without the potential consequences.

Biological dentists advocate for the use of ozone to fight infection, speed up healing, and help with sterilizing fillings and crowns. When used in biological dentistry, Cole said, ozone can be effective in fighting bacterial and fungal infections, as well as mouth sores and herpes. Biological dentists argue that ozone is a safe and effective treatment for preventing tooth decay and a host of other oral health problems.

If you want personalized dental care that looks at the problems youre having in your mouth as part of your overall health, holistic (aka biological) dentistry may be right for you. As with other individualized health modalities in the United States, however, the barrier to seeing these kinds of dentists is often the cost.

But Jean Roorda, 44, who lives in Candler, North Carolina, says biological dentistry is worth it. Roordas family has always avoided conventional dentists, she says. The mother of three sons (ages 24, 12, and 7), Roorda insists that seeing a biological dentist will ultimately save you money.

They address the cause of the problem, so less intervention is necessary, she said. Prevention might be more expensive up front, but its so much more rewarding. It always costs more money in the long run if you need more fillings and more crowns and more roots canals and all of that. And [if you go to a biological dentist] you get to keep your teeth, Roorda laughed. Whats better than that?

Jennifer Margulis, Ph.D., an award-winning science journalist, book author, and sought-after speaker, is a frequent contributor to The Epoch Times.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A Brandon business has been fined $5,000 for defying mask mandates in support of a trucker convoy camped out on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Natural health and organic foods store Two Farm Kids briefly had a sign posted on its front door last weekend encouraging people to drop their masks on Jan. 29 in support of the convoy, which is calling for an end to COVID-19 restrictions and vaccine mandates. The sign prompted the public to drop off their masks at city hall, burn them in a barrel, stand with the truckers who are standing up for all of us.

The sign was removed by Saturday night, said co-owner Sylvia Ubell, but the business did receive a notice and a ticket for failing to comply with an emergency health hazard order, namely COVID-19 prevention order on Feb. 1.

This was about freedom of choice, said Ubell, who owns the store with her husband, Greg.

She said she has always believed pandemic health orders have been government overreach and decided to take a stand in solidarity with the truckers, saying everyone else can do the same. Emails and comments from people coming into the store prove she is not alone, Ubell said.

I and the staff have been keeping track of emails we have been getting, and Id say about 80 per cent [are] positive and 20 per cent [are] negative, she said. Our customer base has been coming in and asking questions. Some have said they are unhappy and never coming in again. All I ask my staff to do is say we hope they change their minds. Most, though, have congratulated us and said they are shopping here more.

About 75 per cent of the people who shop at Two Farm Kids come from a similar background to her, she said; they grew up in a rural setting, are self-sufficient, grow their own food and look after their health. They are open-minded and very health-oriented. They know what they need to do to stay healthy and resent having an outside entity like the government tell them they need to take drugs or feel forced to take a vaccine.

Ive been health-oriented my entire life, that is why I have this business with my husband, she said. Im being realistic. We cant restrict society forever like this. People talk to me and they wanted to comply, but their intuition said there is something about these restrictions that arent right.

She did acknowledge there are people who cant control their health, and that is unfortunate, but the majority shouldnt be restricted for this long because of that. If the government really wanted to protect peoples health, they could have invested more money in the health-care system, Ubell said.

She doubts she is going to pay the fine, adding she is considering legal action.

The province regularly receives tips about non-compliance with public health orders through the COVID tip line, a government spokesperson said. All credible reports are followed-up on. More than 3,000 enforcement officials regularly inspect businesses throughout the province to educate them about the current public health orders and ensure compliance. Most are doing their part to help protect Manitobans from the spread of COVID-19, the spokesperson said, but in some cases, further action is required.

The last week in January saw an increase in tickets being issued for failing to follow pandemic measures. Twenty-four warnings and 41 tickets were issued between Jan. 24-28 and 34 warnings and 37 tickets were issued the week prior, Jan. 17-23.

Premier Heather Stefanson said Wednesday she understands there is COVID fatigue and there has been stronger enforcement, but the focus has been mostly on warnings than fines. Most people have been following the rules and the restrictions are there to protect the health-care system from becoming overwhelmed, she said.

On health-care investment, Stefanson said there have been financial and staffing supports in place since the start of the pandemic. The Council of the Federation is meeting Friday to talk about the Canada Health Transfer, which provides long-term predictable funding for health care to provinces and territories.

[The federal government has] to work with us on this. It isnt something the provinces and territories can shoulder alone, Stefanson said. We are all in this together and we have to ensure we work together on this.

Brandon Chamber of Commerce president Barry Cooper said he is aware of Two Farm Kids actions but the vast majority of businesses in the city are in compliance with provincial health orders.

 kmckinley@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @karenleighmck1
Tea Board proposes to replace old Act for benefit of industry; invites views on draft Bill . Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Feb 3 : To provide a road map for a self-sustainable tea industry going forward, the Indian Tea Association (ITA) has suggested the Centre for a minimum floor price on the beverage -- especially on made tea and green leaf.

The tea industry has presented the initial paper citing their proposal to Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

"This proposal does not require any financial outlay from the state or Central governments and ensures a self-sustainable model for all producers, both small and large," ITA Chairman Vivek Goenka said at its 138th Annual General Meeting held on Wednesday via virtual mode.

For the purpose of guidance and chalking out a strategy, the association has engaged the global consultancy firm Ernst & Young and leading law firm Khaitan and Co, Goenka said.

"We are currently engaging with other stakeholders and will be finalising this proposal soon before taking it to the Ministry of Commerce and to the state governments. I sincerely feel that having a Minimum Floor Price will be extremely beneficial for the entire industry," he added.

Besides, for the tea industry to flourish, export volumes need to be raised to 300-350 million kg, which will also maintain the demand-supply equilibrium.

At present, the country exports around 200-250 million kg of tea on an average annually.

"This (low exports) results in a yearly surplus of around 75 million kg which is coming into the system. Unless this surplus can be addressed the surplus stock will continue to pile up and ultimately lead to an oversupply situation thereby resulting in lower price," Goenka said.

The Indian tea industry has been stuck in a perfect storm for the past several years on concerns such as uncompetitive prices, lack of quality crops, rising labour costs as well as subdued export demand.

Tea production is a high-cost business, with 60-65 per cent of the input costs going into labour wages. The rest goes into coal, gas, fertiliser and other machinery.

The Covid pandemic further exacerbated the industry's prospects. Also, some other major tea producing countries are giving Indian tea producers a tough competition, especially on the price front.

India produces on an average 1,380 million kg of tea annually, and is one of the top growers of the commodity in the world.

The country's tea sector employs around 1.2 million workers and contributes 23 per cent to the global output.

Notably, the Tea Board of India had recently proposed to bring in a new Act by replacing the current Tea Act, 1953 for the betterment of the tea industry. It is currently in the stakeholders' consultation stage.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

OTTAWA  Candice Bergen was named interim leader of the Conservative Party of Canada Wednesday night.

She replaces Erin OToole, who lost a vote to remain as leader of the Official Opposition after a majority of his fellow Conservative MPs cast a ballot in favour of pushing him out of the top job earlier that day.

Bergen, the Manitoba MP for Portage-Lisgar, will lead the party until a new permanent leader is selected at a later date.

The partys 119 members of Parliament met via video conference early Wednesday to cast secret ballots after about one-third of them signed a notice that triggered a leadership review.

Ontario MP and national caucus chair Scott Reid said in a statement that 73 Conservative MPs voted to replace him while 45 endorsed him. As caucus chair, Reid said he did not vote.

Three caucus sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal matters said OToole told his colleagues that if members voted for him to stay, he would undergo an early leadership review by the membership ahead of the previously set timeline in 2023. His critics have spent months calling on OToole and the partys national council to do that.

After the vote, Conservative MPs thanked OToole for his service, including Westman Conservative MPs Larry Maguire (Brandon-Souris) and Dan Mazier (Dauphin-Swan River-Neepawa).

I thank Erin OToole for his service to our nation. Dedication to serving a nation through public service is not always easy, but Erin never held back his admiration for the future of our nation. I look forward to selecting a leader in the coming months who can provide a clear, principled alternative to Justin Trudeau in the next election, Mazier told the Sun via email.

He also said he fully respects the outcome of the vote and still believes in the Conservative party.

I want to personally thank Mr. OToole for his friendship and leadership. I also want to applaud his commitment to our party, our Conservative Caucus and to Canada. Whether serving in the Canadian Armed Forces or as member of Parliament; he gave his all to our country, Maguire wrote in a statement.

Maguire, who said Tuesday he believed OToole was still the right person to be leader, also called for the party to unite now that the vote is over. He said now is the time for Conservatives and Canadians who are upset with the countrys direction to get involved by sharing ideas and making their voices heard.

OTooles ouster was indicative of longstanding divisions between the different ideological wings of the big tent party as well as rumblings of discontent since last years election, said Brandon University political science professor Kelly Saunders. Though the speed at which it happened surprised her.

I thought it would be a little bit of a closer vote, Saunders said. Over 60 per cent voted to dump OToole, and I thought there would have been more people in the party or at least within the caucus who wouldve said we might not like him and we might not agree with everything he does, but now is really not the time to be dumping our leader.

Moving forward, Saunders said she believes the Tories need to work harder to appeal to more progressive, urban voters as she believes theres limited room to expand their base beyond Western Canada under the partys current direction. A fracturing of the party into multiple entities, like what happened in the years after Brian Mulroney was prime minister, could happen again.

Conservative MPs also said they are ready to move on.

The caucus has spoken, Regina MP Michael Kram said on Twitter.

A leader cannot lead if he does not have the confidence of his caucus colleagues.

Quebec MP Pierre Paul-Hus said after the meeting: I think we are more united than ever.

The party will now head into a leadership race for the third time since former prime minister Stephen Harper lost power to the Liberals in 2015.

The Reform Act, which has been in place since 2015, allows a partys MPs to trigger a leadership review instead of waiting for the question to be put to the wider membership.

The Conservative caucus is the only one that voted last year to accept the rule as binding.

On Monday night, after news of the coming leadership review came out, OToole put out a social media post that painted his dissenters as believing the party should hold more extreme views resembling those of Ontario MPP Randy Hillier and ex-MP Derek Sloan.

OToole and his team then started calling different MPs seeking their support.

Before the vote, Saskatchewan MP Jeremy Patzer also shared a statement with caucus from 21 former Conservative MPs, including former agriculture minister Gerry Ritz, that called for a new leader.

Erin OToole has not only failed to unite the party, his words and actions in recent days have created greater disunity, reads the statement obtained by The Canadian Press.

It is time for him to step aside for the good of the Conservative Party and the nation.

Former Edmonton MP Kerry Diotte, who lost his in seat the recent election, published his own social media post late Tuesday saying that as a former military man, OToole should know when he has lost the battle.

The writing is on the wall, he said in a post on Facebook.

Garnett Genuis was among the Conservative MPs who were hoping to oust OToole. He expressed confidence Tuesday about the likelihood that they had the numbers.

OToole, a 49-year-old Ontario MP, took over the reins of the party in August 2020.

The corporate lawyer and Air Force veteran was first elected in a byelection in 2012 in the riding of Durham, a region his father also represented when he was in provincial politics. OToole said he will stay on as MP despite his removal as party leader.

OToole served as a cabinet minister for veterans affairs in former prime minister Stephen Harpers Conservative government before it fell to the Liberals in the 2015 election.

He then put his name forward to be interim leader but lost. He tried again, this time for the party leadership in 2017, but placed third behind Andrew Scheer.

One of the major knocks critics had against OToole began after the 2020 race, where he ran as the true blue candidate over former cabinet minister Peter MacKay. The former Nova Scotia MP had served as leader of the Progressive Conservative party before it merged with the Canadian Alliance to form the modern Conservative Party of Canada.

Once in power, OToole told party members changes were needed if it hoped to make gains in vote-rich regions like the Greater Toronto Area.

In an attempt to modernize the party and differentiate himself from Scheer  whose social conservative views dogged him in the 2019 campaign  OToole promoted his support of access to abortion and LGBTQ rights.

He also embraced carbon pricing, despite the fact that some of his MPs, including many in Western Canada, fought for years against the Liberal governments carbon-pricing mechanism, which the Conservatives called a carbon tax.

During the leadership contest, OToole pledged that it would be scrapped.

During last years election campaign, OToole tried to attract more voters by putting a more moderate stamp on the party.

He also raised the ire of firearms activists and social conservatives by reversing course on promises midway through the race that were inked into his platform when he was being attacked by the Liberals.

Critics like Sen. Denise Batters, who last November began petitioning the party to hold an early leadership review, said his flip-flops damaged his image with Canadians and made him untrustworthy.

Others also point out that OToole finished with two fewer seats than Scheer did in 2019, and failed to make gains the party needed in major cities and suburbs.

Since his election defeat, OToole has struggled to bring his caucus together on issues like vaccine mandates, with many of his MPs feeling the party needed to take a tougher stand against such policies.

He has also faced pressure to more forcefully oppose a controversial secularism law in Quebec and faced pushback from members of the partys social conservative wing for fast-tracking a government bill to ban conversion therapy for LGBTQ Canadians.

 The Canadian Press, with files from Colin Slark
The IANS-CVoter Punjab Tracker is revealing some interesting new trends with the entry of as a new ally of BJP, a contest which is already multi cornered. As a part of the tracker, a snap poll simply asked the respondents across all 117 seats in Punjab, if they feel that PLC-BJP-SADs alliance candidate is in "serious contest" in their own area. The results show that every third voter in Punjab believes that Captain is still very much in serious contest along with his new alliance partners.

This sentiment is more highlighted in Hindu dominated areas of Doaba and Majha and less in Malwa. In electoral contests, if votes are concentrated in a geographical area, a party with a small vote share can win quite a few seats. For example, in the Lok Sabha elections of 2019, the Lok Janshakti Party polled hardly 8 per cent of the vote share in Bihar and managed to win 6 Lok Sabha seats. In contrast, the RJD got multiples of that vote share but failed to win a single seat. Similar trends have been spotted with JDS in Karnataka, NC in J&K or JMM in Jharkhand for that matter.

While very few analysts expected the alliance between the BJP, Captain Amarinder Singh's new party (PLC) and a breakaway faction of the Akali Dal (S) to be a serious contender for power on their own, voters in Punjab do feel it could throw surprises in select pockets like Patiala, Pathankot, Gurdaspur and Jalandhar. This has a potential to upset all calculations of different political parties.

The Punjab Tracker revealed that almost two third of supporters now believed that their alliance candidates are in serious contention for one of top and leading spots in the race. Few months back hardly one in ten of core supporters believed they are in the contest whatsoever. Four in ten Congress supporters also support the assertion made by supporters with a further 13 per cent being undecided. Again, assuming an even split of the undecided voters, nearly half voters of Congress are taking the possible damage inflicted by BJP-PLC seriously.

Even Akali Dal (Badal) voters are not taking the BJP-PLC combine lightly. Almost half of Akali voters feel that local BJP-PLC candidates will finish in the top three positions and a further 23 per cent voters of Akali Dal are undecided. At the absolute minimum, a majority of potential Akali voters are ranking BJP-PLC as a serious contender in their respective seats. Only AAP supporters (30 per cent) are dismissive of the BJP-PLC candidates. Almost 60 per cent AAP supporters feel that BJP-PLC is not really in the contest in their respective seats.

The clear separation of trend between AAP and the PLC-BJP, INC and Akali Dal is a result of the voter catchment that the respective entities dwell in. AAP is more active in Jatt Sikh belt of Malwa while Akali Dal and INC are pan-Punjab parties. Currently, AAP is dominating Malwa where BJP-PLC have slender presence outside of Patiala and some other pockets. Thus AAP's voters do not see PLC-BJP anywhere in the reckoning.

Also, this data is reflective of the growing communal divide that was fostered by some elements during the farmer protests. The predominantly urban and concentrated Hindu vote catchments of Punjabi cities are perhaps not in sync with rural sentiment. We may witness the trend of split vote and divided polity in Punjab after a long while. Last time this trend was observed during the turbulent 1980s.

Which brings us to the question of silent voting. Punjab is a post-conflict society that is a result of nearly a decade of brutal violence. Different communities have different takes on some contentious issues, over time the divisions have narrowed down. However, there is a sense of uncertainty now with Captain Amarinder Singh's departure from Congress and the loss of traction for Akali Dal (Badal).

In caste terms support for Captain and BJP alliance is most bullish among OBC Hindus (55 per cent), the next highest are Brahmins (45 per cent) and Banias (40 per cent) voters among Hindus. Dalit voters belonging to various sub-castes of Hindu community (46 per cent) are also pro-alliance, but the same set from Sikh community is largely pro Congress courtesy a Dalit CM fame. Bottom line is that BJP-PLC is considered seriously competitive by 37 per cent voters in Punjab. This is correlated to the proportion of Hindu votes in the state and also the concentration of the same in various pockets. Due to the silent nature of voters from minority communities (Hindus) there may be some underestimation for the level of actual support for the BJP-PLC combine in different surveys.

(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.)
Gov. Kim Reynolds' proposal to use taxpayer funds for scholarships to help students attend private schools would increase options for low-income families who otherwise can't afford it, school choice proponents said this week.

But public school advocates and Democrats said the proposal would take needed funding away from public schools and funnel it to institutions that aren't subject to the same guidelines  which they said is at odds with Republicans' push this year to increase transparency in schools.

The latest fight over Iowa's education policy ramped up as parents, students, education advocates and school choice groups crowded Wednesday into a Senate meeting room for their first opportunity to weigh in on the proposal.

Reynolds' wide-ranging bill would make a handful of changes to Iowa's education law, including requiring school districts to post curriculum and a list of library materials online for parents to view and would fund scholarships for private school students who are on an individualized education program or whose families make below 400% of the federal poverty level  currently $111,000 for a family four.

"This bill is not about those of us who can already choose for our kids. This bill is about kids who don't have any other opportunity," said Sen. Amy Sinclair, R-Allerton, who chairs the Senate Education Committee.

Republicans said the plan will increase options for families and strengthen public schools through competition, while Democrats accused the majority party of shortchanging public education.

"This is a bad bill from A to Z," said Sen. Claire Celsi, D-West Des Moines.

Senate Republicans advanced the bill through a subcommittee late Wednesday afternoon. Another Senate panel also advanced a separate "parents' bill of rights" that also addresses school transparency. The latter passed on a bipartisan vote.

The two bills signal how the GOP is making education, school choice and transparency major issues in 2022, even after Reynolds first proposal on private school scholarships failed to pass the Iowa House last year.

Story continues

"Informed parents make informed choices," Reynolds told reporters Wednesday as she discussed her latest bill. "It's not a zero-sum game."

Meanwhile, House and Senate Republicans have begun work on their yearly school funding plans and are proposing to increase state aid to schools by either 2.25% or 2.5%. That increase is half of what Democrats, who are in the minority in both chambers, have proposed.

Opponents say school choice bill is problematic. Some proponents want it to be bigger.

Reynolds reintroduced her private school scholarship bill this year with a few tweaks aimed at addressing some of the concerns over who qualifies and its effect on school districts. The bill would limit the number scholarships to 10,000 per year.

Other sections of the bill are new, such as a section that adds transparency measures around book titles and curriculums. The addition is a result of Republicans taking issue with the content of certain library books that parents have been challenging across the state and country.

The bill would also require students to pass a U.S. citizenship test as a requirement for high school graduation and change a handful of other rules on licensure and school enrollment.

While the bill includes other measures, the scholarships were the most applauded and criticized portion on Wednesday.

More: Gov. Kim Reynolds wants Iowa schools to publish their curriculums, book titles. Here's what else is in her bill.

Pro-school choice groups and some students who attend private Christian high schools attended to share support from the bill, with students sharing how they have benefited from their ability to have an education and that the opportunity should be expanded.

A few parents of homeschooled children also spoke in favor of the idea but said they want to see the option expanded to people like them, not just those who are switching over from public schools.

Many are in a lower tax bracket because, like my family, we have to survive on one income, said Pam Molde, of Pella, who homeschools her children. We struggle each month to pay the bills.

But several education advocates said Iowa already has significant school options in place, and they are concerned about using public funding to support private school.

Reynolds' bill would use a portion of the state funding that public schools receive on a per-student basis to pay for the scholarship, meaning the state aid that a district had previously received for a student who qualifies wouldn't be available when the student leaves.

A portion of the funding, however, would go toward supporting school districts with enrollments under 500. It's meant to help soften the effects of students transferring out of rural schools, but not all rural school administrators are on board, said Dave Daughton, a lobbyist with Rural School Advocates of Iowa.

"When I talk to the small schools, they say, 'I'm not sure I want to take money from other public schools,'" said Daughton, whose group opposes the bill.

Other aspects of the proposal also drew concern Wednesday. Education groups said they support transparency but that some of the specific requirements to post materials could be difficult for schools to manage in practice.

More: Iowa Legislature braces for heated debates on library books, private school scholarships

Others said they are worried about removing the requirement that teacher-librarians in K-12 schools have a master's degree. Some were also concerned about making passing the citizenship test a requirement for graduation, especially for some students who don't perform well on standardized tests.

'Parents' bill of rights' finds bipartisan support

The Senate has also advanced a separate bill that specifies parents have certain rights for their children, outlining their right to know the curriculum their children are being taught, the right to review certain school records and banning schools from requiring any activities involving certain explicit material without parental consent.

Sinclair, who sponsored the bill, said it primarily outlines existing regulations and practices that school districts are already required to do.

What we want to do is to bring it all together into one place to talk about the fact that parents are ultimately those who are in the drivers seat of the childs own education, she said Wednesday.

The bill, Senate Study Bill 3079, passed through a subcommittee on Wednesday and the full Senate Education Committee on Thursday with unanimous support. Sen. Herman Quirmbach, D-Ames, agreed the proposal largely matched existing law and practice and said he supported transparency.

As work on school aid begins, Democrats pitch $300 million for public education

Republicans this week also began moving their plans to boost school funding next budget year. Senate Republicans advanced a plan to boost school funding next budget year by 2.25%. The Senate proposal is lower than Gov. Kim Reynolds proposal of 2.5%, and House Republicans have introduced their own bill that would match Reynolds 2.5% proposal.

House and Senate Democrats say the amount is too low and have separately proposed a 5% school aid increase this year. They say that while Reynolds has proposed cutting corporate tax rates by $300 million over five years, that money should instead be invested in public schools.

If Gov. Reynolds has $300 million to put toward another corporate tax cut, then there is room in our budget to invest $300 million in Iowas kids, said House Minority Leader Jennifer Konfrst, D-Windsor Heights.

Senate Minority Leader Zach Wahls, D-Coralville, said Republican attacks on teachers are driving educators to leave the state and resulting in larger class sizes.

We believe that public education makes Iowa great, but Republicans want to give up on Iowa public schools, and we believe that we cant afford that, he said. Whether its underinvesting in Iowa schools, or proposing to privatize Iowas public education system by using public money for private schools, Republicans do not value public education in our state.

Reynolds pushed back on criticisms that Republicans are underfunding schools during a news conference Wednesday, saying she believes Iowa is providing significant funding and increasing it each year. She said schools also have federal funding they are able to use, and the state is working with schools in other ways.

The Senate's state aid proposal passed the Senate Education Committee on Thursday, with Democrats voting against it.

Ian Richardson covers the Iowa Statehouse for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at irichardson@registermedia.com, at 515-284-8254, or on Twitter at @DMRIanR.

Stephen Gruber-Miller covers the Iowa Statehouse and politics for the Register. He can be reached by email at sgrubermil@registermedia.com or by phone at 515-284-8169. Follow him on Twitter at @sgrubermiller.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Debate over Gov. Reynolds' school choice education bill begins
Jobilla, a Helsinki, Finland-based talent acquisition startup, closed an 8.25M funding round.

The funding round consists of 7M of equity funding, with the rest coming from Business Finland loans and grants. The round was led by Juuri Partners and Trind VC.

Led by Henri Nordstrom, CEO and co-founder, Jobilla provides a solution that combines AI-powered candidate filtering, a mobile-supported funnel, and top marketing strategies that ensure the best candidates see the job opportunities  whether they are employed or not.

After raising its previous seed round only less than a year ago, the company has grown 150% in revenue from 2020 to 2021, and is ready to further expand its operations, especially in the German and US markets. In the US, clients include companies such as Pfizer and Arkansas Surgical Hospital. In Germany, they serve clients such as the German Red Cross.

FinSMEs

03/02/2022
French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Thursday that talks between French ship builder Naval Group and the Constanta Shipyard, two industrial partners, were advancing on the construction of corvettes, adding that hopefully an agreement would be reached as soon as possible, Agerpres reports.

"As far as the corvettes are concerned, this is a discussion between two industrial partners. I am happy that these talks are taking place. I hope that all these talks will succeed as soon as possible and that the two companies involved will make the necessary efforts to conclude this agreement as soon as possible, which will greatly strengthen the bilateral relationship between Romania and France and will also contribute to good coordination of our navies in the Black Sea," Le Drian told a joint news conference with Romanian Foreign Minister Bogdan Aurescu in Bucharest.At the end of January, Florence Parly, the French defence minister, paid a visit to Romania. She pointed out that France supports the Romanian Army and its modernisation, mentioning the corvette file to the end.Romanian Defence Minister Vasile Dancu spoke at that time about army acquisition projects, mentioning that he hopes a quick solution would be worked out for the corvette acquisition project.
French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian on Thursday said that the announced French military presence in Romania cannot be seen as a "challenge" by Russia since France doesn't do anything else but honouring its commitments, Agerpres reports.

"France is a nation-state, and its participation in NATO's enhanced forward presence in Romania is in line with its commitments as part of the organization. This readiness will be discussed by ministers in the coming days," Le Drian said.The French minister held a joint press conference with his Romanian counterpart, Bogdan Aurescu.Jean-Yves Le Drian said that the possible coordination with the US forces present on the Romanian territory, as announced on Wednesday, could be based on the "complementarity" principle.Asked if Russia would see France's announcement that it would send troops to Romania as a "challenge," the Paris chief diplomat said: "I don't think this can be said to be a challenge, we're just meeting our commitments with NATO."The French high official also said that "the key issue at the moment is de-escalation." He also spoke in this regard of the dialogue variant."We must make every effort to achieve this goal. And this is what we are doing for this purpose: we are deterring and trying to talk. We want to find channels of communication with Russia. It is true that this dialogue is always demanding and difficult, but we must have it in order to prevent the deterioration of the situation because it is now true that the situation is serious and that Russia has the necessary deployed forces at its disposal that it can engage in an aggressive initiative very fast if it wants. But it did not decide anything else. So we must make all efforts and take all possible initiatives to lead to de-escalation and for President Putin to prefer negotiating over confrontation," Le Drian pointed out.In his turn, Aurescu spoke about the importance of the deterrence component."I would like to add something that we, Romanians, keep in mind, because of our historical experience - when you want to have a dialogue that is substantial and that gives results, in this part of the world you need to rely on a strong deterrence," he said.At the same time, Aurescu reiterated that "the allied presence on the eastern flank of the Alliance, including in the southern part, where Romania is located, if compared to the current Russian presence in the vicinity of Ukraine and the Black Sea region, is clearly a presence that is significantly smaller so there is no way we can talk about the deployment of allied forces that would be a challenge for Russia."
(Newser)  The leader of Canadas Conservative Party was ousted Wednesday. Erin O'Toole, who failed to defeat Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in last years election and angered his partys lawmakers by moving the party to the center, is the third main political rival Trudeau has helped bring down, the AP reports. Party lawmakers voted 73 to 45 on Wednesday to remove Erin OToole. Trudeau thanked O'Toole for his service. "It is a very, very difficult life for even the most successful of us," Trudeau said. O'Toole's removal has big implications for the conservative movement in Canada. With him gone, the party could swing back further right and in a more populist direction.

O'Toole said this week that lawmakers of his party had a choice between extremism or inclusion that better reflects the Canada of 2022. OToole advertised himself as "true-blue Conservative" when he ran for the party's leadership in 2020. He became leader with a pledge to "take back Canada," but immediately started working to push the party toward the political center. His strategy, which included disavowing positions held dear by his partys base on climate change, guns, and balanced budgets, was designed to appeal to a broader cross-section of voters in a country that tends to be far more liberal than the United States.

"Its a chance for a fresh start. We do need to rebuild and reflect on the last election," Conservative lawmaker Marilyn Gladu said. Mark Strahl, another Conservative lawmaker, said the next leader needs to respond to the "curtailment of freedoms" Canadians have seen during the pandemic. "What is our view on vaccinate mandates in the federal sector?" he said. "Should people be fired who are working from home because they are not vaccinated?" One of the leading candidates to replace O'Toole is Pierre Poilievre, a polarizing lawmaker who has met with protesters railing against vaccine mandates and other COVID restrictions in Ottawa. (Read more Canada stories.)
Jeremy Clarkson has been criticised for using a picture of co-star Kaleb Cooper in a tractor weight box to promote the new series of Clarkson's Farm.

Agricultural safety groups said the stunt was 'highly disappointing' amid a poor track record for injuries and deaths in the industry.

They said it was a shame the presenter, 61, had not used his influence to encourage more responsible behaviour with machinery.

The picture was shared on Amazon Prime's and the stars' social media pages to plug the upcoming series.

Clarkson was at the wheel of his Lamborghini tractor tugging a cultivator while Cooper was lying in the weight box.

Farming safety groups warned the image was a poor choice to promote the new series due a swath of casualties in the industry already this year.

Agricultural safety groups said the stunt was 'highly disappointing' amid a poor track record for injuries and deaths in the industry

They said it was a shame the presenter, 61, had not used his influence to encourage more responsible behaviour with machinery. Pictured: Another promo shot

Manager of Farm Safety Foundation Stephanie Berkeley told Farmers Weekly: 'This programme could be a great way to help improve this, so it is a pity that they chose to use this photo displaying such poor safety behaviour.

'Agriculture continues to have the poorest safety record of any occupation in the UK and we are working hard to change that.'

Farm safety consultant at the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health Elizabeth Creed said the photographer was 'highly disappointing'.

She said: 'It is frustrating that the team at Clarkson's Farm did not recognise that their platform has a huge potential for influencing and encouraging a positive safety culture in farming.'

She warned the agricultural industry has already seen a staggering number of incidents this year.

Ms Creed added there were 12,000 farm workers injured in just the past year and said it needs to 'change'.

A production spokesman said: 'As our first series showed, Jeremy has great respect for the farming community.

'The programme is not a 'how to guide' for farmers, who already know far more than he does about farming.'

Clarkson and his Diddly Squat farm friends are reunited in the upcoming series two of the show, with new pictures being released on Tuesday

In another promo picture Clarkson kisses his girlfriend Lisa Hogan as Cooper awkwardly averts his eyes while on Diddly Squat farm.

The Grand Tour host has been filming for the show since last year with Hogan, 47, Cooper, 23, land agent Charlie Ireland and Gerald Cooper.

The clan once again keep a watchful eye on Clarkson and his agricultural antics in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire in the new series.

He previously said he was 'delighted' to be back with another series, which will follow him trying to diversify and expand his agricultural knowledge.

In a video, the former Top Gear host said: 'Following the success of the first series, I'm delighted to say that there will be a second series of Clarkson's Farm.'

To which Cooper interrupted: 'You mean, Kaleb's Farm?'

Clarkson bought the plot of land in 2008 and Clarkson's Farm follows the presenter's highs and lows of tackling the 1,000 acre working farm

Clarkson continued: 'No. The big team are back, cheerful Charlie, Lisa, Gerald and the fetus in the tractor.'

The first series of Clarkson's Farm followed an intense, backbreaking and frequently hilarious year in the life of Britain's most unlikely farmer.

The success of the show was such that fans spent up to four hours queuing outside his new farm shop.

Clarkson bought the plot of land in 2008 and Clarkson's Farm follows the presenter's highs and lows of tackling the 1,000 acre working farm.

Viewers saw Clarkson and his associates contend with the worst farming weather in decades, disobedient animals, unresponsive crops and an unexpected pandemic.

The presenter recently revealed he was 'the happiest he has ever been' and that he 'loved every second' of filming the new hit show.
White House press secretary Jen Psaki said she hasnt discussed UK Prime Minister Boris Johnsons partygate scandal with President Joe Biden, but stressed Mr Bidens continued confidence in the UK as a partner in opposing Russias continued build-up of troops along its border with Ukraine.

The prime minister is currently reeling from a succession of embarrassing revelations about gatherings held in his 10 Downing Street flat while most British citizens were subject to harsh Covid-19 lockdown regulations.

Earlier on Tuesday, Mr Johnson arrived in Kiev, where he is set to meet with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky to formalise a trilateral defence agreement between the UK, Ukraine and Poland. His trip abroad came just one day after he was lambasted in the House of Commons by members of both his own party and the opposition over the multiple instances in which he ignored rules he had laid out for the rest of the UK.

Asked whether Mr Biden has ever been ambushed by a cake  a reference to one of Mr Johnsons defences against accusations that he held a proscribed party in his flat during lockdown  Ms Psaki laughed the question off.

Pressed further on whether the president harbours concern about whether Mr Johnsons domestic troubles could harm his effectiveness as a leader in efforts to combat Russias aggression against Ukraine, the White House press secretary said she has not discussed the Prime Ministers domestic troublers with her boss.

She added that Mr Biden is confident in the important partnership we have with the United Kingdom [and] the role they play as an important partner in making clear to Russia the unacceptable nature of the buildup of troops and their bellicose rhetoric as it relates to Ukraine.

That certainly has not changed despite cakes in anyones faces, she added.
Colonel Gaspard Dan Kwaning Asare, the eighth prosecution witness in the ongoing treason trial told the High Court that Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are used by terrorists and not musketeers.

Colonel Asare is the Senior Ammunition Technical Officer and an Explosive and Bomb Disposal Expert of the Ghana Armed Forces.

He said he had not come across steel pipes being used for musketries instead of bamboos.

Colonel Asare said this during a cross-examination by Mr Victor Kwadjoga Adawudu, the defense counsel for five accused persons.

The Counsel asked whether as a Ghanaian he had not been to traditional funerals where steel pipes were used as musketries.

When asked whether bamboos could be used as IEDs, the witness said no and added that IEDs were used by terrorists.

Mr Adawudu also asked if the sound created when musketries were fired could be described as explosion.

Colonel Asare said no, noting that explosives detonated with both their cases and contents exploding unlike bamboo.

Defense counsel insisted: "Colonel, I am suggesting to you that in modernity, it is metal pipes that are used in place of bamboos at funeral celebrations," but the witness said he did not know about that.

Mr Lamtiig Apanga, counsel for Warrant Officer Class Two (WOII) Esther Saan Dekuwine, also crossed examined the witness about the security of the exhibits the team received, including the 22 steel pipes, powdered pepper and anaestic.

Dr Frederick Mac Palm, Donyo Kafui, alias Ezor, Bright Alan Debrah, Johannes Zipki, Colonel Samuel Kojo Gameli, WOII Esther, Corporal Seidu Abubakar, Lance Airforce Corporal Ali Solomon, Sylvester Akankpewu and Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr Benjamin Kwasi Agordzo have been arraigned over high treason.

They are facing varied charges, including conspiracy, high treason, possession of weapons and abetment of crime.

All the ten have denied their respective charges and have been granted bail.

GNA
Congress leader on Thursday said that although the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) want the rule of only one ideology in the country, it can never happen.

He was speaking here after launching a financial assistance scheme of the Chhattisgarh government for landless labourers of rural areas.

Gandhi also attacked the saying the party and its ideology are taking India towards danger and added that division of the country is the biggest threat of that party.

"When they ask what has been done in 70 years, they do not insult Congress, but our farmers and labourers," Gandhi said while referring to the .

Gandhi arrived in Chhattisgarh's capital Raipur on a day-long visit to his party-ruled state.

Apart from launching the scheme named 'Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhoomihin Krishi Majdoor Nyay Yojana' (RGGBKMNY), Gandhi laid the foundation stone of a memorial with an eternal flame, named Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti', to be built in Mana Camp area here for soldiers and security personnel martyred in the line of duty.

He also laid the foundation stone of Gandhi Sevagram' ashram to be built in Nava Raipur, similar to the one in Wardha (Maharashtra).

Earlier, on his arrival at the Swami Vivekanand Airport in Raipur from New Delhi at around noon by a special aircraft, Gandhi was accorded a warm welcome by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, his cabinet colleagues, MLAs and senior party leaders at the airport, a government official said.

This is Gandhi's first visit to the state since the coronavirus pandemic broke out in the country in early 2020.

Under the RGGBKMNY, registered labourers in rural areas who do not possess agricultural land will be given financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per year in three installments. Nearly 3.55 lakh landless families of labourers, barbers, blacksmiths, priests, forest produce collectors and shepherds, among others, will receive the first installment of Rs 2,000 on the occasion under the scheme, 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 devastating fire outbreak has razed down several shops at Asawase Bombay, a popular wood market in the Asokore Mampong Municipality of the Ashanti Region.

The fire which started around 9am on Thursday morning February 3, 2022 destroyed over 30 shops.

The cause is still unknown.

According to the dealers, goods worth over Ghc100,000 have been destroyed.

A victim, Mr Ahmed Awal Tahiru in an interview with this reporter said several sawmill machines were also burnt.

"We have lost a lot, our shops and goods and the amount involved is so huge that I do not know how we can start all over again.

"Three huge sawmill machines costing GH20,000 have been wretched by the fire, we did our best to fight the blaze but it was too hot for us," he cried.

Report from the scene indicates that over four fire tenders were deployed to the area before the fire was brought under control.

About 20 police officials were also deployed to the area to control the crowd for the smooth operation of fire officers as thousands of residents rushed to the area to catch a glimpse of the blazing fire.

Preliminary investigations by the Ghana National Fire Service GNFS have disclosed that the fire was sparked by the burning of garbage in the area.

The Commander for Manhyia Fire Command DO1 Amos Abban said they have launched a thorough investigation into the matter.

He called on residents in the area and the affected victims to volunteer any information that will help them in their investigations.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Thursday slammed the Congress Party and its leader Rahul Gandhi in the Rajya Sabha and said that they need to come out from the thinking of 'Indira is India and India is Indira'.

Speaking on the Motion of Thanks on the President's Address, he said that it is being said there are two India's. Now the situation has changed and one India is of 'sanatani thinking' and the other of 'samanti' (feudal).

"Eight years ago, PMO was being run from somewhere else. Today the PMO is strong enough to take bold decisions." Listing the achievements of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi- led government at the Centre, he said that PM Modi ended the red beacon culture and made laws that were needed in the present time and removed old and irrelevant laws.

Noting that the 'Weeks of riots' and 'Months of terrorist blasts' have come to an end, Naqvi said that the people should be proud of these achievements.

Referring to the abolition of 'Triple Talaq', he said that to make the Supreme Court's decision on Triple Talaq effective we brought this law.

Speaking on the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, he said the Modi government removed the provisions which were keeping the erstwhile state of J&K out of the country's mainstream.

Naqvi added that because of the Citizenship Amendment Act, the government brought hundreds of people from the minority communities in Afghanistan to India safely following the Taliban takeover of the war torn country.

Earlier, when the discussion on the Motion of Thanks began, AIADMK member M Thambidurai congratulated the Modi government on effectively dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also appreciated the level of Foreign Direct Investment and the success of the PM Jan Dhan Yojana. "The collateral free loans given to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises have helped the economy." Referring to the 'plight of fishermen' of Tamil Nadu, he urged the government to settle the issue. JD-U member Ram Nath Thakur asked the Union government to speak to Nepal to address the problem of flooding in Bihar and also demanded a special package for Bihar.

Slamming the government, DMK lawmaker R S Bharathi said that the it did not learn any lessons from the first wave of the pandemic. Referring to the 33 percent reservation to women, Bharathi said, "You have got a majority in the Lok Sabha. What is preventing you from passing the resolution?" Speaking on the issue of NEET exemption, he said that it was a fight between 'have and have nots' and highlighted how NEET has affected students of Tamil Nadu.

Participating in the debate, RJD MP AD Singh urged the government to take action against those who called for 'genocide' in the recent Haridwar event. "A strong government cannot be seen as bowing down to a handful of fringe elements," he advised.

Singh also brought up the 2020 Ladakh Valley clash and said that 'Threats have not diminished' and pointed out that the post of Chief of Defence Staff has been lying vacant since the demise of General Bipin Rawat in a helicopter crash.
The Beijing Winter Olympics kicks off on Feb. 4, when China is celebrating the Spring Festival, or the Lunar New Year.

Raphael Tuju, secretary-general of Kenya's ruling Jubilee Party, sent his greetings to the Chinese people, wishing for a successful Games and a happy Chinese New Year.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The historical responsibility of developed countries who have already polluted the environment must not be left out in any discussion on the present situation, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupendra Yadav said on Thursday.

Responding to a question asked by Trinmool Congress Rajya Sabha member, Shantanu Sen, on India's ranking among the most-polluted countries, he said: "Those who are crowding the carbon space after polluting the environment, why is their historical responsibility not considered?" "Secondly we comprise only 4 per cent of carbon emissions despite making up 17 per cent of the world population because of our traditional lifestyle," he said.

On environmental clearances, the Minister added: "The modifications to the environmental clearance process are necessary to promote ease of doing business." Yadav also informed the Upper House that to mitigate the air pollution in big cities, efforts are being taken to reduce emissions by incorporating new pollution standards for industries and to change the traditional fuel to newer ones or biofuel.

Similarly, the issue of stubble burning is also being addressed and efforts are on to convert it into biofuel, he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan, to a question by Congress member K.C. Venugopal on "anti-national" content on news channels and banning of Kerala television channel 'Media One', said that the matter is sub-judice.

Responding to a question on Marathi being given the status of classical language, Minister of State for Culture, Arjun Ram Meghwal said that the decision will be taken soon and the inter-ministerial dialogue is underway.

Earlier, Congress member Shaktisinh Gohil also urged the Union government to also include the Kutchi language spoken in Gujarat's Kutch region and many migrants settled across the world.
A huge oil vessel with capacity for two million barrels of oil has exploded off the coast of Nigeria.

Dramatic footage shows fire engulfing the Trinity Spirit and thick plumes of smoke bellowing from the sinking vessel at Ukpokiti oil field close to the River Niger delta.

The ship, a floating production, storage and offloading vessel, had a crew of ten on board. There have been no reports of any crew members being found.

Mystery surrounds the cause of the blast on the storage craft, which is owned by Shebah Exploration & Production Company Ltd (SEPCOL) - a firm in receivership.

The Trinity Spirit, which has the capacity to store 2million barrels of oil, is a floating production, storage and offloading vessel in Warri south-west, Niger Delta

It is not yet clear how much, if any, oil, has been spilled in the blaze.

Chief executive Ikemefuna Okafor said investigations were underway to establish the cause of the explosion, which happened in the early hours of Wednesday.

Attempts to contain the situation were being made with help from local communities and Chevron, which has a facility nearby.

The vessel was owned by Nigeria's Shebah Exploration & Production Company Ltd which is in a form of bankruptcy protection called receivership

'At this time there are no reported fatalities, but we can confirm that there were ten crew men on board the vessel prior to the incident and we are prioritising investigations with respect to their safety and security,' Okafor said.

Although Nigeria is Africa's largest crude producer, production costs there are high due to frequent accidents and insecurity.

Militants have frequently attacked oil installations in the past and Nigerian pirates are active across the wider Gulf of Guinea region.

It is unclear how much oil was spilled after the explosion this week but commentators have warned that the country could be facing its second environmental disaster in three months.

In November, a well head started spewing 20,000 barrels of oil a day into the waterways of Nembe in Nigeria's Bayelsa state.

The catastrophic leak was only stemmed weeks later with the Nigerian government declaring the fallout from the disaster as being 'like Hiroshima'.
The federal minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari said in the Senate that it seems that the bill on missing persons has been lost while emphasizing that the issue of missing persons in Pakistan is important. She said the government prepared the bill on the missing persons, which was passed by the National Assembly and sent to the Senate. "It is not known why the bill is not being introduced in the Senate. Chairman, I have spoken to you today as well. Why is the bill not being introduced? The issue of missing persons is intolerable in a democratic system," she said addressing the Senate chairman, The News International reported. Responding to the minister, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani said: "It is the bill of the government and only the government can bring it, I cannot bring it. All the members should remove their misunderstanding and if the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs produces the bill, I will bring it. I can't bring the bill on my own." Pakistan mocks the United Nations concerns over enforced disappearances, which continues to be practised with impunity in the country, according to a Canada-based think tank International Forum for Rights and Security, which says that these practices remain a taint on Islamabad's human rights record. In November 2021, Amnesty International released a new briefing documenting the effect of such abductions on the families of those who go missing. The briefing, titled "Living Ghosts", is based on interviews with 10 family members of persons "whose fate remains unknown after they were abducted by Pakistan's security services". Pakistan's government and Army, however, do not appear inclined to lose their effective tool for stifling the voice of discriminated youth. (ANI)
(ANSA) - ROME, FEB 3 - The first batches of Pfizer's anti-viral COVID drug Paxlovid will be distributed in Italy on Friday, COVID czar Francesco Figiuolo said Thursday.

The first 11,200 batches of the drug will be distributed to Italy's regions and autonomous provinces after Pfizer signed a deal with emergency commissioner Figliuolo.

The contract foresees the supply of 600,000 shipments during the course of 2022, which will be given to the regions according to directives from the health ministry and drug regulator AIFA.

(ANSA).


Westlife Development reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 20.82 crore in Q3 FY22 as against a net profit of Rs 0.11 crore in Q3 FY21.

Total revenue increased by 46.7% YoY to Rs 476.83 crore during the quarter. This was driven by growth across both dine-in and convenience channels that grew bya solid 39% and 55% respectively. The company's same store sales growth for the quarter stood at 44% YoY.

Operating EBITDA increased by 66.7% to Rs 83.45 crore in Q3 FY22 from Rs 50.06 crore in Q3 FY21. Operating EBITDA margin was 17.5% in Q3 FY22 as against 15.4% in Q3 FY21.

The company added 8 new stores taking the total store count to 316 restaurants across 44 cities.

Amit Jatia, Vice Chairman of Westlife Development Limited, said, We are quite pleased with our performance in the quarter. What is especially noteworthy is that this has come in a quarter that continued to see certain COVID-led restrictions.

Westlife Development focuses on setting up and operating quick service restaurants (QSR) in India through its subsidiary Hardcastle Restaurants (HRPL). The company operates a chain of McDonald's restaurants in West and South India, having a master franchisee relationship with McDonald's Corporation USA, through the latter's Indian subsidiary.

The scrip fell 1.08% to end at Rs 487.25 on the BSE today.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Smer is only as strong as its opponents are weak, notes political analyst.

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A recent, mid-winter protest organised by the opposition party Smer attracted about a thousand supporters to a square in front of the presidential palace in central Bratislava. It was a potent demonstration of the partys revived fortunes.

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Slovakia must be ready for an uprising by the people against the government, declared Smer leader and three-time former prime minister Robert Fico, as quoted by the TASR newswire.

While representatives of other opposition parties also showed up at the protest, among them Hlas and the extra-parliamentary Slovak National Party (SNS), a recent public opinion poll suggests that Smer is the one rising fastest in popularity.

Smer is now only 1.5 percentage points behind the strongest party, Hlas, which was formed by Peter Pellegrini in summer 2020 after he and others broke away from Smer. The split began a decline in support for Smer, which eventually bottomed out in opinion polls at around 9 percent between November 2020 and February 2021.

Since then, however, the party has steadily regained popularity and observers point out that Smer is now close to reclaiming the number one spot in the polls. Robert Fico, who frequently dabbles in rhetoric that is hard to distinguish from the vocabulary of extremists, has been successful at setting the political agenda. He is regarded by opponents and supporters alike as a significant figure, and one who is omnipresent across the political scene.

Smer challenges Hlas
New Delhi, Feb 3: Russia has advised the United States of America to use its influence on the Ukrainian authorities to force them to fully comply with the Minsk agreements instead of "forcing aggressive rhetoric" and "pumping" the Armed Forces of Ukraine with various types of weapons.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had, "at the initiative of the American side", held a telephone conversation with the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken on Tuesday where both sides discussed the possibilities for further work on security assurances.

"An exchange of views was continued on issues of providing legal guarantees for ensuring Russia's security in the context of the written reaction submitted by the US and NATO to the relevant draft international legal agreements submitted to them earlier," said the Russian Foreign Ministry in a statement.

"The Minister emphasised the imperative nature of our demands to faithfully adhere to the obligation of all OSCE countries not to strengthen their security at the expense of the security of others, including the non-expansion of NATO and the non-deployment of strike weapons near Russian borders," it added.

Moscow said that during the consideration of the bilateral agenda, Lavrov pointed out the unacceptability of "Washington's destructive line of restricting the activities of Russian diplomatic missions in the United States" and intensify the search for ways to remove these "irritants".

Russia on Tuesday also released the text of Lavrov's message "on the subject of the indivisibility of security", sent on January 28 to his counterparts from the US, Canada and a number of European countries.

The Kremlin revealed that it remains "seriously concerned" about the growth of military-political tension in the immediate vicinity of its western borders and the responses of the US and NATO to its proposals received on January 26, 2022 testify to "significant differences in the understanding of the principle of equal and indivisible security" fundamental to the entire European security architecture.

"That's not how things will work. The meaning of the agreements on the indivisibility of security lies in the fact that security is either one for all, or there is none for anyone. And, as stipulated in the Istanbul Charter, every OSCE participating state has an equal right to security, not just NATO members, who interpret this right as referring exclusively to members of the North Atlantic 'exclusive' club," Lavrov's message said.

The matter also came up for discussion during the Lavrov-Blinken telephone conversation.

"Today, I reaffirmed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken that we won't allow this issue to be dragged out. We will insist on honest conversations and explanations of why the West does not want to honour its commitments at all, or only selectively when it benefits them. Blinken agreed that this is a subject for another conversation. We will see how it goes," Lavrov told media in Moscow.

Russia on Thursday also slammed the overnight statement made by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on country's alleged use of "chemical weapons" and its "multiple invasions" of other states.

"The statement of the White House official representative is fundamentally false, aimed at demonising Russia in the eyes of the US public and the world community. The US has not backed up with any credible evidence its fantasies built on outright lies about the alleged use of chemical weapons by our country," said Anatoly Antonov, the Russian Ambassador to the United States, on Wednesday.

"Let me remind you that the United States remains the only country that has not yet fulfilled its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and has not eliminated national chemical weapons arsenals," added the Russian Ambassador.

Joining the large-scale retaliation from Moscow to Washington, the Russian embassy in London said that Great Britain is selling "decommissioned weapons" to Ukraine, "which can hardly ever be useful" to its armed forces.

According to the Russian news agency Tass, country's Ambassador to London Andrey Kelin said in an interview with the Solovyov Live YouTube channel that Ukraine is receiving military assistance, including weapons, from Western countries.

"Ukraine received two boats some time ago. There have been several flights from Britain to Ukraine with British-made Javelin analogs, a shorter modification with a shorter firing range... There will be little use for the Ukrainian armed forces from these supplies but they are basically meant to demonstrate London's 'solidarity' with Kiev," the agency quoted Kelin as saying.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
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In a statement on Wednesday, ASEAN called for an immediate end to violence and for its special envoy to be allowed to visit Myanmar soon.

Over 1,500 civilians have been killed by junta forces and almost 12,000 people detained since the coup in February last year.

The military regime is increasingly isolated on the international stage, with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sens January visit to the capital Naypyitaw the first by any foreign leader since the Myanmar military seized power.

The snub comes after ASEAN took the unprecedented step of barring coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing from a summit in October. It was a rare rebuke by the regional bloc, which is seeking to lead diplomatic efforts to resolve the turmoil in Myanmar.

Since there has been little progress in carrying out ASEANs Five-Point Consensus, the ASEAN member states did not reach a consensus to invite Myanmars foreign minister to participate in the upcoming foreign ministers retreat, said Cambodias foreign ministry spokesman Chum Sounry.

Cambodia, the current chair of the regional bloc, said that there hadnt been enough progress on the five-point consensus agreed by ASEAN leaders to try and find a political solution to the crisis in Myanmar sparked by the juntas coup.

Myanmars junta suffered a fresh diplomatic blow on Thursday when the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) barred regime foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin from an upcoming meeting of ASEAN foreign ministers.

Myanmars Military Knows Only the Language of Force

Indias Ties With Myanmar Junta in Focus After Chin Groups Attack on Manipur Rebels

The Day Myanmars Military Chief Hinted at the Coup to Come

Myanmar's Year of Turmoil: From Coup to Jailing of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

Myanmar Resistance Kills Dozens of Junta Soldiers in Three Days of Clashes

Even Worse Than Expected, Myanmar Coup also a Failure for Junta

A Year After the Failed Coup, the Myanmar Peoples Opposition to Military Rule Remains Resolute

On Anniversary of Coup, Myanmar Junta Extends Military Rule for Six Months

Myanmar in Revolt as People Choose to Fight the Brutal Regime

US Enforces Fresh Sanctions on Myanmar Junta and its Cronies

Is Myanmar Junta Leader's Presidential Dream About to Come True?

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Russia is massing nuclear-capable missiles along with 30,000 troops in Belarus, NATO has warned, amid fears of a huge refugee crisis if Ukraine is invaded.

Jens Stoltenberg, NATO general secretary, said today that Russia has already deployed thousands of troops including Spetsnaz special forces, along with Iskander missiles that can be tipped with nukes, fighter jets, and S-400 anti-aircraft systems.

Intelligence suggests that Putin will grow that force to 30,000 troops within the coming days, Stoltenberg added, saying it represents the largest Russian deployment in Belarus since the Cold War.

Observers are particularly fearful of troops stationed in Belarus because it gives them the shortest route to attack Kiev, Ukraine's capital - with some predicting that military drills taking place in the coming days could be used as cover for an attack.

Stoltenberg issued his warning as the Norwegian Refugee Council predicted a huge humanitarian crisis if violence breaks out across the region.

Russian tanks take part in combat drills in Belarus on Wednesday, ahead of much larger drills set to take place next week

Russia is moving tens of thousands of troops into Belarus backed by tanks, fighters, anti-aircraft systems and nuclear-capable missiles, NATO says (pictured, Russian tanks in Belarus)

Russian armoured personnel carriers take part in drills in Belarus on Wednesday, amid fears the exercises could provide cover for an invasion

A map showing where Putin's forces have assembled on Ukraine's borders, the military options Putin might be considering, and key targets he would likely go after in the event he chooses to invade - something the US continues to war could be just weeks away from happening

'The lives and safety of millions of people in eastern Ukraine hang in the balance as we wait for a political breakthrough to the current impasse,' Jan Egeland, head of the council, said in a statement after visiting Ukraine.

'We must not underestimate the human suffering of renewed conflict - it would result in increased civilian casualties, massive displacement and humanitarian needs.'

Egeland said fighting in the eastern Donbass region has already displaced some 850,000 and left 3million reliant on humanitarian aid.

And he predicted another 2million people would be made homeless if Russia were to attack other eastern regions - not including the possibility of an attack from Belarus.

Amid the East-West standoff, Britain on Thursday launched fighter jets against aircraft approaching its area of interest, a day after the Royal Air Force intercepted and escorted away four Russian bomber in a similar operation.

'Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighters from RAF Lossiemouth, supported by a Voyager Tanker from RAF Brize Norton, have been launched against aircraft approaching the UK area of interest,' an RAF spokesman said.

While the identity of the approaching aircraft was not immediately confirmed, it comes just a day after RAF jets were sent to escort two Russian Cold War-era Tu-95 Bear H and two Tu-142 Bear Fs.

The Quick Reaction Force 'intercepted and escorted' the four Russian aircraft and escorted them away from UK airspace, the RAF said. The Russian bombers did not enter UK sovereign airspace.

Russian Iskander missiles, which can be tipped with nukes, are pictured arriving in Belarus last week

An RAF spokesman told MailOnline today: 'Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighters based at RAF Lossiemouth supported by a Voyager from RAF Brize Norton were scrambled today against unidentified aircraft approaching the UK area of interest. Subsequently we intercepted and escorted four Russian Bear aircraft.'

Analysts have warned for weeks that Russia is in the process of significantly expanding its arsenal in Belarus, which comes after dictator Lukashenko pivoted into a close alliance with Russia after relations with the EU dramatically collapsed.

The strongman leader, often called Europe's last dictator, hit out at the EU after it criticised his most-recent election 'win' in 2020 which was widely viewed as rigged - then cut almost all ties after he hijacked a Ryanair plane to arrest a journalist.

Since then, Lukashenko has drawn markedly close to Russia - backing Putin's menacing of Ukraine, having been largely dismissive of Putin's expansionism when he annexed Crimea in 2014.

In recent weeks, Lukashenko has offered Putin use of a Belarussian training base near Poland and Lithuania - both NATO states - the use of four airbases, a missile base, and storage sites, and has offered to host Russian nuclear weapons.

The pair will also hold a major military drill on Ukraine's border to test the combat readiness of their troops in the coming days.

Russia has massed some 130,000 troops backed by tanks and artillery on Ukraine's border, a build-up that began in November last year but continues to grow as Washington warns invasion could be 'imminent'.

High-level diplomacy is now underway after the Kremlin has issued a list of security demands to NATO and the US, including that Ukraine be banned from the alliance and all forces be withdrawn from ex-Soviet states.

Most of Moscow's demands have been dismissed as non-starters, but Western allies have proposed renegotiating missile agreements, increasing the transparency of military drills, and giving Russian inspectors access to NATO bases as a compromise.

But they also warned Putin that failure to withdraw his troops from Ukraine's border will result in NATO sending extra troops to the region to counter-balance them, a move that Biden made good on as he deployed an extra 2,000 troops to Europe.

Around 1,700 of those will be heading to Poland, NATO's closest deployment to eastern Europe, while 300 will go to Germany to join command positions there.

Russian Iskander missiles are pictured on a military base in western Belarus, close to the border with Ukraine, on January 30

Russian military footage shows Iskander missile launchers taking part in drills in western Russia, close to the border with Ukraine

Russian defence minister Sergey Shoigu (left) meets with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko (right) and Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin (centre) today

Another 1,000 troops already in Europe will be repositioned to Romania, which borders the Black Sea where one of Russia's biggest fleets is positioned.

Putin and his inner circle are still mulling over NATO and America's diplomatic proposals, but in public have sharply rebuked Western allies for ignoring their concerns. Russia has also shown no signs of withdrawing forces from near Ukraine.

On Thursday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko described Biden's decision to deploy additional troops as a 'destructive' and an 'unjustified' step.

He added that it would 'delight' the Ukrainian authorities, who would continue sabotaging ceasefire agreements aimed at ending fighting in the east of the country 'with impunity'.

Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, also hit out at the troop movements on Thursday, accusing the US of escalating tensions in the region.

'We are constantly urging our American partners to stop escalating tensions on the European continent,' Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

'Unfortunately, Americans are continuing to do it,' he said. 'Obviously, these are not the steps aimed at de-escalating tensions, on the contrary, these are actions that lead to an increase in tensions.'

Therefore, he added, Russia's concerns over NATO's eastward expansion and US troop deployment are 'absolutely clear, absolutely justified.'

'Any measures taken by Russia to ensure its own security and interests are also within reason,' the Kremlin spokesman added.

Amid the standoff, Boris Johnson finally spoke with Putin over the phone late Thursday to warn him that any invasion of Ukraine would be a 'tragic miscalculation'.

Having abandoned a call earlier in the week to deal with the fallout of the 'Partygate' scandal, Mr Johnson told Putin he is 'deeply concerned' about Russian aggression in eastern Europe and that the UK will not back down over Ukraine's right to join NATO.

Put is said to have dug his heels in during the call, giving no indication that he plans to withdraw forces from the region.

A Kremlin summary of the call simply said: 'The unwillingness of NATO to adequately respond to the well-founded Russian concerns was noted.'

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba again played down fears of a Russian attack in a call with reporters but said that if Russia makes moves that could signal an imminent invasion Ukraine would react as necessary.

Russian soldiers attend a military training at the Yurginsky training ground in the Kemerovo region, Russia

Russian soldiers attend military training at the Yurginsky training ground in the Kemerovo region, Russia

A Ukrainian soldier keeps guard at a building outside of Maryinka, Ukraine

A map showing NATO bases in Poland and Romanian that American has offered to allow Russian inspectors inside to confirm no cruise missiles are being stored there

Poland's Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak wrote on Twitter that the U.S. deployment to his country is 'a strong signal of solidarity in response to the situation in Ukraine.'

President Biden put 8,500 troops on heightened alert last month in preparation for movement to Eastern Europe to help bolster the region against threats from Russia should NATO activate its response force.

The U.S. already has several thousand troops in Poland, and Romania is host to a NATO missile defense system that Russia considers a threat to its security. Biden notably has not sent American military reinforcements to the three Baltic countries on NATO's eastern flank - Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania - that are former states of the Soviet Union.

Tensions have been further aggravated by plans for joint military exercises between Russia and neighboring Belarus, where Washington claims Moscow is preparing to send 30,000 troops.

During Putin's phone call with Mr Johnson, the Russian President said NATO was 'hiding behind' its open-door policy that 'contradicts the fundamental principle of the indivisibility of security', the Kremlin said in a statement.

It added that Putin accused Ukraine of the 'chronic sabotage' of the Minsk peace agreements signed in 2015 between Kyiv and pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine.

Since the start of the conflict, which has left 13,000 dead, the West has accused Russia of supplying military and financial help to the separatists, charges that Moscow rejects.

Mr Johnson tweeted: 'I spoke to President Putin this afternoon to express my deep concern about Russia's hostile activity on the Ukrainian border.

'Any further incursion into Ukrainian territory would be a tragic miscalculation.

'Dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward.'
Last week, I Tweeted a photo of some cuts on the top of my hand. They looked pretty nasty, and I explained that my daughter with autism had scratched me during a bout of stress that she was facing. The Tweet had a purpose - to educate - not to shock, or be gory. Twitter labeled it as "sensitive," and I guess they started looking at us, because every Tweet with a link or photo is now marked as sensitive. Yesterday, when I ran the sad news about Tanner Welsh's passing, I specifically asked Twitter to NOT censor us. I know, naive. At any rate, I'm disappointed, not surprised, that we're being artificially labeled. I can write sensitive information. I could make Twitter and many other social media and peoples' heads explode with sensitive content. I try to be very careful to keep Age of Autism live and not get shut down. Twitter has yet to remove our ban.
LONDON MARKET CLOSE: BoE, Fed interest rate hikes rock markets

Thursday, September 22, 2022 - 17:17

Stocks in London tumbled on Thursday as hot-on-the-heels of the US Federal Reserve, the Bank of England also lifted rates again in a bid to tame red-hot inflation.

The BoE resisted the urge to hike at the same pace as the Fed, opting for 50 basis points instead of 75. Threadneedle Street was downbeat on the UK's economic prospects, predicting a third-quarter recession.

The FTSE 100 index closed down 78.12 points, 1.1%, at 7,159.52. The FTSE 250 ended down 382.98 points, 2.1%, at 18,331.69, and the AIM All-Share closed down 7.92 points, 0.9%, at 847.42.

The Cboe UK 100 ended down 1.2% at 714.25, the Cboe UK 250 closed down 2.0% at 15,703.59, and the Cboe Small Companies ended down 0.6% at 13,275.33.

In European equities on Thursday, the CAC 40 in Paris lost 1.9% and the DAX 40 in Frankfurt ended down 1.8%.

Stocks in New York were lower at the London equities close, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down 0.4%, the S&P 500 index down 0.9%, and the Nasdaq Composite 1.5% lower.

The Bank of England raised UK interest rates by half a percentage point to 2.25%.

Three members of the Monetary Policy Committee voted in the minority to raise the key bank rate by a more-aggressive three-quarters of a percentage point, however. One member backed a smaller 25 basis point hike.

The BoE explained that it expects peak consumer price index inflation to be lower than previously thought at just under 11%, due to the UK government's recently announced energy price measures.

In a worrying forecast, however, the bank expects the UK to enter into recession as early as the third quarter. It now expects a third-quarter gross domestic product to fall by 0.1%. It had previously anticipated 0.4% growth.

A third-quarter GDP fall would represent a second successive quarterly decline, meeting the definition of a recession. Two consecutive quarters of falling gross domestic product meets a long-held view of what defines a recession. The UK economy contracted by 0.1% in the second quarter of 2022.

The pound traded below the $1.13 mark.

The pound was quoted at $1.1257 at the London equities close Thursday, down from $1.1336 on Wednesday. The euro stood at $0.9827, down against $0.9879.

The yen gained ground against the greenback, however. The Japanese government intervened in the currency market. The yen has plummeted against the dollar in light of the widening policy gap between US and Japanese central banks.

The dollar had been seen as high as nearly JP146, after the Federal Reserve announced a 75 basis interest rate hike on Wednesday. In contrast, the Bank of Japan had left its ultra-loose monetary policy in place.

Against the yen, the dollar was trading at JP142.17 late Thursday, down from JP144.13 late Wednesday.

With the period of mourning Queen Elizabeth II over, the UK government has begun unveiling new policies that give clues as to the direction new Prime Minister Liz Truss will pursue.

Ahead of his mini-budget on Friday, Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng said the UK national insurance hike introduced by Boris Johnson's government will be reversed from November 6.

Kwarteng confirmed that he was cancelling the 1.25 percentage point increase imposed by Rishi Sunak when he was chancellor to pay for social care and dealing with the NHS backlog. He would also be scrapping the planned health & social care levy, which was due to come into effect next April to replace the national insurance rise.

Earlier in the day, Business & Energy Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg lifted England's ban on fracking. He said the impact of Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine means securing domestic energy supplies is vital. He defended lifting the moratorium on fracking, which has been in place since 2019 after a series of tremors caused by the process.

Rees-Mogg suggested limits on acceptable levels of seismic activity are too restrictive and said the government is determined to realise any potential sources of domestic gas.

AIM-listed oil & gas firm IGas Energy said it welcomed the decision. Its shares surged 10%.

Brent oil was quoted at $90.24 a barrel at the London equities close Thursday, down from $90.82 late Wednesday. Gold was quoted at $1,669.31 an ounce, up against $1,667.36.

In the FTSE 100, JD Sports was the worst performer, shedding 8.4%. The sportswear retailer reported a rise in interim revenue but a drop in profit.

In the six months to July 30, pretax profit dropped to 298.3 million from 364.6 million. JD Sports explained this was due to the previous year experiencing a one-off benefit in the US from government stimulus.

Revenue rose by 14% to 4.42 billion from 3.89 billion a year previous.

JD Sports Chair Andrew Higginson said the results were at the top end of the company's expectations, touting the firm's strength of consumer engagement. However, Higginson remained cautious about second half trading, citing macro-economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures as well as supply chain disruption due to the threat of industrial action in many markets.

Playtech dropped 9.7% after posting a significant decrease in interim profit.

The Isle of Man-based gambling software developer said pretax profit had dropped 63% to 103.7 million in the six months to June 30 from 278.1 million a year before.

This fall was mainly due to the 299.9 million of unrealised fair value gains on financial assets recognised in the prior period, Playtech said.

Playtech's revenue, however, increased by 73% to 792.3 million from 457.4 million. This increase was driven by strong growth within regulated business-to-business markets and Snaitech, Playtech's Italian business.

On AIM, Biome Technologies tumbled 51%. The bioplastics and radio frequency technology firm warned revenue for 2022 and 2023 will now be substantially below current market expectations due to supply chain problems and concerns over consumer demand.

Biome said it is taking a very cautious approach and said that further delays and a scaling back of volumes are inevitable in the shorter term.

In Friday's UK corporate calendar, there will be full year results from engineering company Smiths Group, as well as trading statements from waste management firm Biffa and financial services firm Investec.

The economic calendar for has UK consumer confidence figures overnight, as well as a slew of flash PMI figures from Australia, the EU, France, Germany, the UK and the US.

Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
In the early 1900s, American school teacher, traveler, and photographer, James Ricalton, went to India and traveled extensively throughout the subcontinent, documenting and recording the lives, culture and customs of the natives through photography. Once, while visiting some remote villages in the hills of Punjab in the lower Himalayas, he came across an unusual sight, which he captured in his stereoscopic camera. Only the left hand side of the image is reproduced here below.

Ricalton describes the scene:

This is some twenty miles from Naldera, up in the hill country of the Punjab. The mountain river here is deep and swift; you can see ahead how high, steep banks wall it in and you can judge how pouring rains, draining from such slopes, would turn this stream into a fiercely raging torrent. These men are natives in their customary clothes, and the rather ghastly looking objects with which they are busy are the hides of cattle, sewed up tightly and inflated with air till they can be used like enormous life-preservers. Two of the men you notice, are still at work blowing their boats full of air; they have cords there all ready to tie up the end of the skin when it is sufficiently distended. Another has done the blowing-up at home and is bringing his skin down over the rocky bank; it is bulky but naturally very light and comparatively easy to handle. When they are ready to start each man will throw himself across one of the inflated skins, using his foot on one side and a short paddle on the other side to propel the queer craft. If his balance is not perfect of course the craft rolls over and he gets a ducking, but practice makes skilful, and, as a matter of fact, small loads of freight and even passengers are ferried across in safety. If several passengers are to be taken over, it is customary for two boats to start out side by side, the passengers on the different floats taking hold of each other to help balance the queer craft. India Through the Stereoscope: A Journey Through Hindustan

This primitive technique of crossing rivers and streams is neither unique to India nor invented by these natives. One of the oldest examples of this technique can be found in a bas-relief from ancient Mesopotamia, from Nimrud where it once decorated the palaces of King Ashurnasirpal II, who ruled Assyria from 883 to 859 BC. Now at the British Museum, the relief shows Assyrians soldiers swimming supported by small inflated skins, probably of goats. Cyrus the Great also used inflated or stuffed animal skins to cross a Babylonian river as mentioned by Xenophon. Another example is Darius I who used the same technique in 522 BC to cross the Tigris River. The Mongol troops of Genghis Khan carried inflatable animal skins with them on their westward conquests. His grandson Kublai Khan also used inflated skin along with wooden rafts when the occasion required. Much later, the Romans and the Arabs still resorted to this simple but ingenious solution for the same purpose.

An Assyrian soldier floating on a goat-skin float.

In order to prepare the hide to be used as a floatation device, the goat or buffalo was flayed differently for the skin was needed intact. William Moorcroft who travelled extensively throughout the Himalayas, Tibet and Central Asia, described the method as he saw being employed in Punjab in 1820, which is recounted by James Hornell in The Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland published in 1942.

The skin having been cut through around each knee, a long incision is made in the back part of a hind leg, extending down to the knee; through this the skin is gradually flayed off. When detached the skin is doubled up and buried for a few days, to allow decomposition to proceed sufficiently for the hair to be rubbed off by hand or with a blunt wooden knife. Turned inside out, the natural openings (mouth, eyes etc.) are then stitched up. Finally it is turned back again and the main incision sewed up with thongs of raw hide. The open end of three legs are now tied up, the fourth being left open to serve as a tube for inflating the skin. Thin tar from deodar or other pine is then poured into the skin and shaken about until the interior surface is thoroughly impregnated with it. The exterior in turn is tanned by steeping in an infusion of pomegranate husks. When inflated a bullocks skin looks absurdly like a huge hairless bear. A dog not used to the sight will often growl and show signs of uneasiness. Equally strange is the sight of a man carrying on his back what appears to be an animal three or four times his own weight and bulk. ... The skins are kept dry when not in frequent use; when wanted again they require a preliminary soaking in water in order to render them sufficiently soft and supple to be blown out. Usually a reed tube is inserted into the leg opening for the inflator to blow through.

Before the construction of bridges and the availability of better boats, floats were indispensable for crossing unfordable mountain rivers in India. In spite of its apparent primitivity and crudeness, these floats worked wonderfully. Moorcroft tells how on one occasion his whole party, consisting of about 300 persons, 16 horses and mules, and about 200 maunds (a unit of weight in used in India equivalent to about 37 kg) of merchandise and baggage, were ferried across the Sutlej by 31 watermen, each managing one skin, within an hour and a half.

Inflated bullock skins for ferry boats on Sutlej River in the Punjab, India. Photo: Digital Commonwealth

Crossing the Sutlej near Shimla upon inflated animal skins. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Locals use bullock skins to cross a river in Kashmir.

Cow or ox skin raft loaded with wool in China. Photo: Arthur de Carle Sowerby (1885-1954)

Locals carry inflated animal skins for river crossing, India, circa 1860. Photo: Samuel Bourne

Sadlermiut man paddling an inflated walrus or seal skin, drawn by George Lyon c. 1830.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The design of the 624 MW power project on the Chenab in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir is likely to be among the issues discussed at the next meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission as part of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT).

Article VIII (5) of the IWT says: "The Commission shall meet regularly at least once a year, alternately in India and Pakistan." The Indus Commissioners from India and Pakistan had met in March 2021. "Under the provisions of the Treaty, the Commission shall meet regularly at least once a year, alternately in India and Pakistan. The last meeting was held in New Delhi on March 23, 24, 2021. So, the next meeting is due," Indus Commissioner P.K. Saxena said.

The dates of the meeting - mostly likely to be held in March - are yet to be decided. The agenda for the meeting would be finalised only after the dates are fixed.

Amongst the likely subjects to be discussed would be Pakistan's objection to the design of the power project over Chenab. In August 2021, Pakistan's Indus Commissioner Syed Muhammad Meher Ali Shah had raised objection to the design of the run-of-the-river Kiru project.

Saxena had then said, the design is fully compliant as per the provisions of the IWT.

The concrete gravity Kiru project is located in Kishtwar district of J&K. The Rs 4,287.59 crore (at 2018 level) project by Chenab Valley Power Projects Ltd, is a joint venture between NHPC Lt and Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC).

Under the 1960 vintage IWT, India and Pakistan share the waters of six rivers in the Indus basin that flow through India towards Pakistan. Of these, India has complete rights over three eastern rivers - Sutlej, Beas and Ravi, while Pakistan has right over the western rivers Chenab, Jhelum, and Indus.

India can, however, build run-of-the-river projects on the western rivers. Pakistan gets almost 80 per cent share of the Indus basin waters (approx 135 MAF) against India's 33 MAF.

Incidentally, in August 2021 itself, a Parliamentary Standing Committee had recommended that India should renegotiate the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan in view of the "present day pressing issues such as climate change, global warming and environmental impact assessment".

However, the Permanent Indus Commission has no role in the policy decision.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi: The Indian Army is soon going to get an anti-tank guided missile that will make the enemy's tank skeletons. For this, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) has tied up with Russia's OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). With its arrival, the strength of the Indian Army on the borders of Pakistan and China will increase further.

The name of this anti-tank guided missile is, The Conkers M anti-tank missile. For this, BDL has signed an agreement with the Indian Army for Rs 3131.82 crore. The Indian Army will receive these anti-tank guided missiles in three years. BDL has signed an agreement worth Rs 11,400 crore with the Russian body. BDL CMD retired Commodore Siddharth Mishra said that the Konkurs-M will be made fully by the BDL according to the indigenous conditions for the Indian Army. Much of it will be indigenous.

The BDL has also planned to enter into an agreement with some of India's friendly countries for this anti-tank guided missile. "We want to export anti-tank missiles manufactured in India.

After reaching Raipur, Rahul Gandhi made earthen lamps

India's services industry grew at its slowest pace in 6 months, input costs at a 10-yr-high

Amazing work of a student of Bihar, did such a work that Google was shaken
Winter got off to a slow start but made up for lost time in January. Now, long-range forecasters say winters snow and cold will continue for a few more weeks, but an early spring should be on the way.

December was flakeless, without any measurable snowfall in Ocean, Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland counties. For the coastal region and the southern half of the state, it was the second warmest December since the Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist started keeping records in 1895. In fact, it was warmer than some Novembers.

New Years Day rang in 2022 mild, with record warmth at Frank S. Farley State Marina in Atlantic City on Jan. 2.

Then came winter.

Atlantic City International Airport has reported 33.2 inches of snow and Lower Township has been buried in 27.2 inches, both January records. Its been so snowy that ACY ranked tenth out of roughly 70 high-quality observing stations for most snow as of Jan. 31, according to the National Weather Service.

The record snowy month was anchored by noreasters that brought more than a foot of snow in spots at the beginning and end of the month. When the snow wasnt falling, it was primarily cold.

Weather analysts are expecting more of the same this month.

I believe that repetitive stretched polar vortex events are becoming the dominant factor this winter across the Northern Hemisphere. These events contribute to a colder and snowier pattern in the Eastern U.S. There are signs that after a brief warmup, a new stretched PV will persist the cold in the Eastern U.S. in February, said Judah Cohen, director of seasonal forecasting for Atmospheric and Environmental Research in Lexington, Massachusetts.

The polar vortex, an area of counterclockwise spinning low-pressure that surrounds both of the Earths poles and contains the coldest air in the hemispheres, thrice stretched down from its natural resting place at the poles into the Eastern United States. The jet stream, the river of air roughly 30,000 feet high that separates two airmasses and is often the storm track, parked itself in prime position for three noreasters to strike: Jan. 3, 7 and 28-29.

In addition to the behavior of the PV, I do think that persistence (of the PV stretching events) is becoming more important as we transition into February, Cohen said. That would include cold and snowy weather east of the Rockies in North America.

Cohen usually doesnt like to look at how previous winters have played out to see what the future will hold. However, the winter of 2013-14 sticks out to him as one that could be copy-and-pasted into this winter.

That wound up being the fourth snowiest winter since records started in the winter of 1944-45. That included 21.7 inches of snow after Feb. 1. Snow was frequent, but generally light, with one storm, March 3, bringing 4 to 8 inches for most of South Jersey.

Cohen said both this winter and the winter of 2013-14 exhibit the same behavior by the polar vortex. The PV exists in both the troposphere, the lowest layer of the atmosphere, and the stratosphere, which ranges roughly from 40,000 feet to 31 miles high. In both cases, the stratospheric PV has remained colder than average, but the tropospheric PV was warmer than average.

WeatherWorks, a consulting meteorological services firm based in Hackettstown, Warren County, foresees a moderate risk for a few low to moderate snow events for the remainder of February. However, another big snow event will remain elusive, as a ridge of high pressure a few thousand feet high should build in from the Southeast, mixing cold shots and milder bouts, especially in the second half of the month.

March is, on average, a toss-up for South Jersey, as increasing sun angle and daylight warm up the average temperatures quickly. Average highs go from 45 to 50 degrees on March 1 to 53 to 58 degrees on March 31.

March looks like a near to slightly above normal month temperature-wise, said Kevin Winters, a long-range meteorologist for WeatherWorks. Given that Atlantic City averages just over 2 inches (of snow) in March, I think the chances for anything more than a salting event (generally 1 to 3 inches of snow) are pretty slim.

That said, the continued state of La Nina, cooler than average water temperatures across the area of the Pacific Ocean near the equator, off the coast of South America, does leave a crack in the door for one last bout of wintry weather.

I will not entirely rule out a more significant event occurring, Winters said.

Since 1945, there have been 10 times when ACY has seen more than 6 inches of snow, almost all taking place in the first half of the month. In Lower Township, where records date to 1894, only six events have had more than 6 inches.
UN News, February 1, 2022

We are gravely concerned for their well-being and safety, Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the High Commissioner for Human Rights, told journalists at a regular press briefing in Geneva.

Despite the de facto authorities announcement on Saturday of an investigation into the disappearance two weeks ago of these individuals, there is still no confirmed information on their whereabouts, she added.

Climate of uncertainty

In the early evening of 19 January, Parwana Ibrahim Khil and her brother-in-law were abducted while travelling in Kabul.

Later that same evening, Tamana Paryani and her three sisters were taken from a house in the city.

On 16 January, both Ms. Khil and Ms. Paryani had taken part in peaceful demonstrations calling for the rights of women to be respected by the Taliban, who swept back into power last August.

Since then, there have been reports coming in of house searches of other women who participated in protests.

The lack of clear information on the location and well-being of these and other individuals, perpetuates a climate of fear and uncertainty, stressed Ms. Shamdasani.

Worrying pattern

These reports have also brought into focus what appears to be a pattern of arbitrary arrests and detentions, as well as torture and ill-treatment of civil society activists, journalists, and media workers, as well as former Government and security forces personnel in Afghanistan, she said.

Moreover, as control over dissent appears to be tightening, OHCHR continues to receive credible allegations of other gross human rights violations.

We call on the de facto authorities to publicly report on the findings of their investigation into the abduction and disappearance of these women activists and their relatives, to take all possible measures to ensure their safe and immediate release, and to hold those responsible to account, said Ms. Shamdasani.

Hold those responsible accountable

She also urged Taliban officials to guarantee that all reports of this nature are investigated promptly and effectively, and that those responsible for abductions and arbitrary arrests be held accountable, in line with international human rights law.

All those who may be arbitrarily detained for exercising their rights must be promptly released, she spelled out.

We also urge the Taliban leadership to send clear messages to their rank-and-file that there must be no reprisals against people who demonstrate peacefully and exercise their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
BBC, February 3, 2022

An Afghan female activist has been forcibly taken from her home, the latest in a string of alleged arrests by the Taliban.

A source told the BBC that authorities had arrested Mursal Ayar at her home in the capital Kabul on Wednesday.

Ms Ayar is the sixth woman to have been taken by the Taliban in the past weeks, the BBC understands.

The Taliban has denied detaining the women. A spokesman said they were looking into Ms Ayar's case.

"This is a case which has just happened. We are investigating it," Taliban spokesman Bilal Karimi told the BBC.

There are fears for Parwana Ibrahim, Tamana Paryani and Ms Paryani's three sisters Zarmina, Shafiqa and Karima who went missing on 19 January.

For weeks now, the reported detention of the women in Afghanistan has sparked huge outcry online and concern from rights groups.

The activists had in mid-January taken part in peaceful protests in the capital calling for the women to be given work, study and political rights under the new Taliban rule.

Days later, Ms Paryani later posted a video on social media showing armed men entering her apartment block.

"Help, the Taliban have come to my house," she said before the video ended.

In a previous interview with the BBC, Suhai Shaheen, who hopes to become the Taliban's ambassador to the UN, accused Ms Paryani of "making fake scenes and shooting films in order to seek asylum abroad".

Ms Ibrahim's brother-in-law was also abducted while the pair were travelling in Kabul, the UN has said.

The UN's human rights office on Saturday said again that it was "very alarmed" over the continued disappearance of people connected with the recent women's rights protests.

"We are gravely concerned for their well-being and safety", said Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the High Commissioner for Human Rights on Tuesday.

"The lack of clear information on the location and well-being of these and other individuals, perpetuates a climate of fear and uncertainty", she added.

The UN noted that the Taliban had on Saturday announced an investigation into the women's disappearance but said confirmed information was still lacking.

They also said the reports of missing women highlighted "a pattern of arbitrary arrests and detentions", as well as torture and mistreatment of civil rights activists, journalists and former government officials in Afghanistan.

The UN urged the Taliban authorities to "send clear messages to their rank-and-file that there must be no reprisals against people who demonstrate peacefully and exercise their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly".

Under Taliban rule Afghanistan has become the only country in the world which publicly limits education on the basis of gender, which is a major sticking point in the Taliban's quest for legitimacy, and in the lifting of international sanctions on the group.

The regular protests by women highlighting the issue are being seen as a huge source of embarrassment to the group.
The Tindler Swindler debuted on Netflix on Wednesday night and viewers watching at home couldn't get enough.

The gripping new crime documentary focused on serial fraudster Shimon Hayut, who posed as the son of a billionaire Israeli diamond merchant to swindle women he dated out of thousands of pounds.

And watching the thrilling scenes play out, viewers rushed to share their thoughts on Twitter, with one insisting the show - from the makers of Don't F**k with Cats - is a 'must watch'.

Hooked: The Tindler Swindler debuted on Netflix on Wednesday night and viewers watching at home couldn't get enough

Based on real life events, Shimon was seen posing as billionaire Simon Leviev, with the show seeing the accounts of three women who were conned out of thousands of pounds after meeting the conman on dating app Tinder.

The main focus centered on Norwegian graduate student Cecilie Fjellhoy, who was swindled out of a whopping 200,000 after being swept off her feet by 'Simon' who wooed her after flying them from Bulgaria from London via a private plane on their first date.

As their relationship continued, Cecilie found herself handing over thousands of pounds to the handsome charmer as he begged her for money to protect his identity from people who were out to kill him.

Eventually, Cecilie clocked that her partner wasn't who he said he was and soon joined forces with his other female victims in a bid to bring him to justice.

Conman: The gripping new crime documentary focused on serial fraudster Shimon Hayut (pictured), who posed as the son of a billionaire Israeli diamond merchant to swindle women he dated out of thousands of pounds

And viewers at home couldn't get enough as they took to social media to share their excitement about Netflix's latest offering.

'#TheTinderSwindler a must watch. Not only to know swindlers are there but you can be strong like Cecilie, Pernilla and wise like Ayleen' tweeted one person.

While a second said: 'Slept at 2 am last night because just before I turned the TV off at my usual 12am bedtime, I decided to watch 5 minutes of #TheTinderSwindler, and ended up watching the whole thing.'

'Watching #TheTinderSwindler and oh my f**king God what a story and what a well made docu' gushed a third watcher.

'My fellow Gender .. this is a must watch .. #TheTinderSwindler .. Wow never knew such emotional fraudsters Exist' said a fourth.

Victims: Based on real life events, Shimon was seen posing as billionaire Simon Leviev, with the show seeing the accounts of three women who were conned out of thousands of pounds after meeting the conman on dating app Tinder

With a fifth person adding: 'Honestly was about to give up on Netflix but Ive just watched #TheTinderSwindler and now Im watching #ThePuppetMaster and I aint ever deleting this app.'

The official synopsis for the programme reads: Swipe, swipe, swipe... Its not easy to find love online, so when Cecilie matches with a handsome billionaire playboy, she cant quite believe it when he turns out to be the man of her dreams.

'But dreams aren't reality and by the time she discovers this international businessman isnt who he says he is, its too late. Hes taken her for everything.

'Where this fairytale ends, a revenge thriller begins. Cecilie discovers his other targets and once they band together, they're victims no more: THE TINDER SWINDLER meets his match.'

Hayut was eventually arrested and imprisoned in December 2019 at Tel Aviv Magistrates Court, according to The Times Of Israel, but released the following May, after serving five months of his 15-month sentence.

Tricked: The main focus centered on Norwegian graduate student Cecilie Fjellhoy, who was swindled out of a whopping 200,000 after being swept off her feet by 'Simon'

Fraud: 'Simon' wooed Cecilie with gifts and even flew them from Bulgaria from London via a private plane on their first date

During the sentencing hearing, the conman told the court he was 'sorry about everything' and promised to 'pay my debt to society'.

He was also ordered to pay his victims $43,289 and to pay a fine of $5,771 under the terms of a plea deal.

According to an investigative report by Norways Verdens Gang newspaper, Hayut conned women in Norway, Finland and Sweden out of hundreds of thousands of dollars using a Ponzi scheme.

He would shower women he met on the dating app with lavish trips and gifts, using money he had taken from other women. He would then ask for more money under the guise of needing to protect his identity due to security concerns.

Speaking about the moment she realised she'd been conned, Cecilie told ABC's Nightline in 2019: 'I almost wanted to throw up, it was the first time in my life that I had gotten such a shock that my body physically was telling me that, "OK your life is ruined".'

Reaction: Watching the thrilling scenes play out, viewers rushed to share their thoughts on Twitter, with one insisting the show - from the makers of Don't F**k with Cats - is a 'must watch'

While speaking on ITV's Lorraine ahead of the show's release, Fjellhoy admitted she wasn't going to give up on love - and explained that she had been victim-blamed and called a gold-digger after sharing her story.

Fjellhoy said: 'I think what happened was so extraordinary and it was such a weird and movie like what it was, and I didn't want to put that on other men, it's not other men's fault what he did to me.

'And he's taken so much from us. I didn't want him to take that part of me, that truly believes in love and I'm still trying but it's been painful.'

Caught: Hayut was eventually arrested and imprisoned in December 2019 at Tel Aviv Magistrates Court, according to The Times Of Israel, but released the following May, after serving five months of his 15-month sentence

Fjellhoy, who appeared on the programme alongside another of Hayut's victims Pernilla Sjoholm, admitted that after sharing her story, she was victim-blamed.

'We kind of knew it might come, but to be called a gold-digger for giving out money, like we said, we must be the worst gold-diggers in history.'

Fjellhoy, who is now bankrupt in the UK but whose loans are mostly in Norway, says she was conned out of more than 200,000 by Hayut.

'The thing is that they are very smart about it,' she told presenter Lorraine Kelly. 'He doesn't ask for money the first time, it's more security of the name.

'I know it's the same thing but when you're in it, he's asking "I can't use my cards, like they're going to track my name, can I use your card?" So that's how they started it.'

The Tinder Swindler is available to watch on Netflix now.

Doomed romance:Fjellhoy (pictured with Hayut), 29 at the time, was a Norwegian graduate student living in the British capital when she was swept off her feet by the self-proclaimed, 'Prince of Diamonds', then 28
ALBANY, N.Y., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The global microgrid market was worth US$ 63.5 Bn in 2020. The market is likely to rise at a CAGR of 11.3% during the forecast period, from 2021 to 2031 and is expected to reach valuation of US$ 206.1 Bn by 2031. End users' reliance on utility grids to satisfy their power needs has risen due to the growing population and rapidly increasing electricity consumption. The global energy consumption is anticipated to rise by approximately 56% by 2040, as per the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Additionally, as a result of increasing industrialization and urbanization, energy consumption is rapidly increasing, and main grids are unable to meet this demand adequately. These gaps are turning into business possibilities for microgrid firms looking to expand their power supply services.

Microgrid connects loads within well-defined electric limits with distributed energy sources. Microgrids can function independently, so they are becoming more popular during major grid outages. As such, the device helps in the mitigation of risks associated with grid outages and disruptions. The global microgrid market can be divided into grid-tied (grid-connected) and off-grid segments based on connectivity.

In order to address power-generating concerns, service providers are using monitoring systems, system engineers, and relays. Furthermore, the microgrid market is benefiting from the rapid rise of Industry 4.0, which is converting into revenue opportunities for market players. The AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry's increasing funding on equipment and machinery are supporting the Industry 4.0 trend.

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Key Findings of Market Report

On-site microgrid systems have the potential to function in the event of earthquakes, floods, or tornadoes. In addition, in an event of a power outage, these systems can take the place of traditional grids. In order to deal with such emergency situations, governments are formulating plans to strategically install microgrids near police stations, hospitals, pharmacies, petrol stations, and grocery shops.

Utilization of environment-friendly power sources in microgrids has been growing, owing to near-zero-fossil-fuel by-products and cost savings.

Microgrids provide benefits such as matrix modernization and a combination of appropriate fuel age sources, including renewables, as well as the reconciliation of a few keen network advancements. It also aids in supplying local loads from adjacent force sources, resulting in the reduction in transmission and appropriation losses as well as increase in the system's overall competence.

Microgrids supplement macrogrids by handling power inconsistencies from regional renewables and providing additional services to bulk power systems and sensitive loads. As a result of all of these benefits, product usage is increasing across a wide range of applications, including community and utility, commercial and industrial, campus and institution, defense and military, and remote island. In the next few years, this is projected to open up lucrative sales opportunities in the global microgrids market.

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Microgrid Market: Growth Drivers

The global market is expected to be driven by breakthroughs in renewable energy technologies during the forecast period. Microgrids can readily produce power employing renewable energy technology. Furthermore, the use of renewable energy sources in microgrids has grown as a result of their near-zero carbon emissions and cost-effectiveness.

Asia Pacific is a major region for players in the global microgrid market, with a plethora of expansion opportunities. Many factors, including low electrification rates, increased demand for power, and poor grid connectivity in Asia Pacific , have contributed to the region's growth. Due to rapid industrialization and urbanization in many countries, the market is expected to offer lucrative avenues in the upcoming years.

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Global Microgrid Market: Key Players

Some of the key market players are

Schneider Electric SE

Power Analytics Corporation

Honeywell International Inc.

Siemens AG

Duke Energy Corporation

S&C Electric Company

Global Microgrid Market: Segmentation

Connectivity

Grid-tied (Grid-connected)

Off-grid

Application

Campus & Institution

Community & Utility

Commercial & Industrial

Defense & Military

Remote Island

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A warning has been issued over the increase of an advance fee loan scam in which victims hand

Advance fee fraud requires individuals to pay a fee before receiving a promised sum of money which is never paid.

Gardai have noticed an increase in this practice recently with a number of websites offering quick, easy, unsecured loans.

In these frauds, the victim is required to fill in a short application that looks for their details.

Once these details have been submitted a follow up phone call is received from what appears to be an Irish number. The victim is informed via the telephone call that their loan has been approved but they are required to make a payment in advance of the loan being paid into their account.



Reasons for fees can vary but can include:

 Insurance fees

 Set up fees

 First instalment in advance



The websites used in these scams look professional in nature but there are a number of Red Flags which the public should look out for. These include (but not limited to):

1. The common trend with all these sites is that they are offer quick and easy money.

2. No guarantor or security is sought and no checks on the individuals ability to pay will be made and no documents / proof of ID will be sought

3. The requirement that a fee is paid in advance of the service being provided.

4. The fraudster will put pressure on the victim to act quickly or the opportunity will be lost

5. The company offering the loans is not be regulated by the Irish Central Bank. Even though they may claim to be so regulated or will say they dont need regulation as they are experienced.



An Garda Siochana advises:

 Never apply for a loan from an entity that is not authorised by the Central Bank  do your checks in advance of any agreement and before sending any money.

 ALWAYS check the official Central Bank website to see if the firm is authorised by the Central Bank. The register of authorised firms can be accessed at http://registers.centralbank.ie/

 There may also be instances where a firm clones the details of an authorised entity by taking the details of an authorised entity and claiming to either be that entity or an associated entity. Further information in respect of unauthorised firms that have already come to the attention of the Central Bank is available on the Central Banks website at https://www.centralbank.ie/.../authori.../unauthorised-firms but please be warned that there may be scams out there that have not yet come to the attention of the Central Bank.

 Never allow your account to be used by another to move money or to hold money for any period (long or short) as this enables Fraudsters to complete their crimes, and deprives innocent Victims of their hard earned cash.

 Unfortunately there are no cheap easy loans available in the market and if the offer sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is too good to be true.

 Always report the matter to your local Garda station.

 Stop and think BEFORE ENGAGING

 Never give away personal data to people you dont know

 Always be fraud aware, particularly when you receive an unsolicited phone call, email, text or other communication that leads to a request for personal or banking information.

 Never click on a link in an email, text or other message unless you know the source
NEW DELHI, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Acetonitrile Market size was valued at US$ 353 million in 2021 and is projected to reach US$ 482.9 million by 2027. The Global Acetonitrile Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period 2022-2027. The growth of the market is majorly driven by a heavy demand of Acetonitrile in pharmaceutical sector, HPLC applications and production of epoxy hardeners and agrochemicals. Acetonitrile finds its significance predominantly as a key solvent in the manufacturing of antibiotics and drug recrystallization and significant growth of the pharmaceutical industry across the globe is majorly contributing in the acetonitrile market growth over the forecast period. Its escalating usage as a solvent to cast and mold plastic materials and chemical properties like low viscosity and low freezing/ boiling point will also boost Acetonitrile extraction activities in the upcoming years. Moreover, Acetonitrile consumption is constantly rising with its increasing adoption in pesticide residues and usage as a high purity solvent in HPLC applications.

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Some of the major restraints in the global Acetonitrile market are the new substitutes for Acetonitrile such as prionil, methanol, ethanol and others are expected to hinder the market growth as these have fewer drawbacks and are cost-effective substitutes. Moreover, with the rise in Acetonitrile consumption at industrial sites and excessive human exposure can cause short and long term effects such as fatal cyanide poisoning, respiratory and central nervous system diseases. Therefore, the severe health risks associated with Acetonitrile- a toxic substance are restraining the market growth during the forecast period 2022-2027.

Impact of COVID-19 on Global Acetonitrile Market

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted petrochemical and agriculture industries due to the slowing product demand and disruption in supply and distribution chains. Since the outbreak, the pharmaceutical industries across the world were fully operational and have witnessed massive growth owing to medicines requirement by patients.

Solvent type segment is estimated to have the highest market share

Based on type, the Acetonitrile market has been segmented into derivatives and solvent. The solvent segment dominated the market and is estimated to grow at a significant CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period. The growth of the solvent segment in the global market accounts of its high usage in purification of wool resins, polymers spinning, casting and extensive adoption in HPLC applications.

99.90% segment holds the highest market share during the forecast period

Based on grade, the Acetonitrile market is segmented into 99.99%, 99.90%, 99.80%, 99.50% and others. The 99.90% segment is projected to dominate the market in the forecast period with 43% share in 2027. The growth of the segment is coupled with growing HPLC application techniques and growing product demand from end-use industries as it has superior purity-based products.

Pharmaceutical application segment is projected as the most lucrative segment over the forecast period

On the basis of application, the Acetonitrile market has been classified into laboratory, agricultural chemical, pharmaceutical, specialty chemicals and others. In terms of value, pharmaceutical application segment of Acetonitrile market has register to grow at the highest CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period. During the forecast period 2022-2027, the pharmaceutical segment holds the major share in the Acetonitrile market due to the increased demand for recrystallization of drugs from the pharmaceutical industry.

Pharmaceutical Industry is expected to lead the Acetonitrile market by 2027

On the basis of end-user, the report has segmented the Acetonitrile market into agricultural industry, analytical industry, pharmaceutical industry and others. Pharmaceutical industry is its biggest share end-user accounting for the majority of 52.3% share during the forecast period. The pharmaceutical industry is also projected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Due to its most important application of exceptional physical and chemical properties, Acetonitrile is used to synthesize certain vitamins, amino acids and also used as a solvent in the production of insulin and antibiotics. Therefore, the market growth for pharmaceutical industry in Acetonitrile market is increasing at a rapid pace across the globe.

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Asia-Pacific dominates the Acetonitrile market and is estimated to grow with the fastest CAGR during the forecast period

Asia Pacific region is the biggest producer in the Acetonitrile market, accounting for more than half of the total global production. Asia pacific is projected to have the largest hold, with a share of around 50.5% in the global Acetonitrile market in 2020. In terms of consumption, China majorly contributes to the market growth in the region owing to the continuous R&D activities for the development of new medicines, drugs and pesticides are fueling the growth of Acetonitrile adoption in the region. Followed by China, Europe held the second highest share in the global Acetonitrile market in 2020.

Competitive Landscape

Global Acetonitrile Market is highly competitive in order to increase their presence in the Acetonitrile market. Some of the key prominent players holding a major share in the Acetonitrile market by expanding their geographical boundaries by acquiring competitive strategies such as merger and acquisition include Asahi Kasei Corporation, Avantor Performance Materials LLC, Formosa Plastics Corporation, Sterling Chemicals, INEOS AG and others.

Segmentation Overview

Global Acetonitrile Market is categorized based on types, by purity grade, by application, by end-user and by region. The industry trends in global marketplace are sub- divided into different segments in order to get a holistic view of the market.

Following are the different segments of the Global Acetonitrile Market:

By Type Segment of the Global Acetonitrile Market is further sub-segmented into:

Derivative



Solvent

By Grade (Purity) Segment of the Global Acetonitrile Market is further sub-segmented into:

99.99%



99.9%



99.8%



99.5%



Others

By Application Segment of the Global Acetonitrile Market is further sub-segmented into:

Laboratory



Agricultural Chemical



Pharmaceutical



Specialty Chemicals



Others

By End-User Segment of the Global Acetonitrile Market is further sub-segmented into:

Agricultural Industry



Analytical Industry



Pharmaceutical Industry



Others

By Region Segment of the Global Acetonitrile Market is further sub-segmented into:

North America



U.S.







Canada







Mexico



Europe



Western Europe





UK







Germany







France







Italy







Spain







Rest of Western Europe





Eastern Europe





Poland







Russia







Rest of Eastern Europe



Asia Pacific



China







India







Japan







Australia & New Zealand

&





ASEAN







Rest of Asia Pacific



Middle East & Africa (MEA)

& (MEA)

UAE







Saudi Arabia







South Africa







Rest of MEA



South America



Argentina







Brazil







Rest of South America

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SAYREVILLE  The borough school board has put the brakes on plans to build a bus depot at Jesse Selover School.

Following an outcry from residents, the board voted on Tuesday to rescind a Dec. 21 resolution appointing an architect for the project.

Residents have criticized the plan, saying the bus depot would dishonor a memorial to Pfc. Wayne A. Grant, a resident of the Morgan section, who was killed in Vietnam in 1967. An athletic field at the school is named after Grant.

Neighborhood residents also said the depot would impact their quality of life, create safety and environmental issues, increase traffic in the residential neighborhood and cause property values in the neighborhood to decline.

A Facebook page was started, a petition was circulated, and a walk was held in the neighborhood to bring attention to the opposition. Signs against the project also dot the neighborhood.

But Superintendent of Schools Richard Labbe said the memorial would be preserved.

"There is no way we want to do anything to harm that memorial," Labbe said.

The bus depot also would be named after Grant, the superintendent said.

Residents in the Morgan section of Sayreville have been speaking out against the Board of Educations plan to construct a transportation complex at Selover School.

Several residents, including Jeff Smith of the Morgan section, asked the board at Tuesday's meeting to rescind the Dec. 21 resolution.

"I think it would give the residents of Morgan, the residents of Sayreville, a greater sense that the Board of Education is not moving along full steam ahead with an agenda item that is opposed by a great number of us in Sayreville," Smith said.

In response, the board adopted another resolution to pay Spiezle Architectural Group $339,800 for "professional services related to the construction of a transportation complex at a yet to be named location."

READ: Sayreville man found dead after early morning house fire, police say

Last week, the Borough Council unanimously voted to authorize the borough's engineering firm, CME Associates, which is also the school board's engineer, to begin the search for alternative locations for the bus depot.

Story continues

"I've been 100% opposed to this from the day I found out about it," Mayor Victoria Kilpatrick said at the council meeting. "We're going to do everything that we can in order to make this right for the entire town."

The mayor also said the memory of Grant should be honored.

"This is about his family and this is about the family of Morgan," Kilpatrick said.

At the meeting, Jay Cornell, of CME Associates, said municipal, school district and Sayreville Economic & Redevelopment Agency properties will be reviewed to see if there are any that "are more appropriate for the location of a bus terminal."

The mayor also asked that county properties be included in the search.

Residents told council members that they not only don't want the bus depot in the Morgan section, they also don't want it in any Sayreville neighborhood.

Residents in the Morgan section of Sayreville have been speaking out against the Board of Educations plan to construct a transportation complex at at Selover School.

The mayor said she is hoping that by working with the school board, an appropriate site will be found.

At Tuesday's meeting, Labbe said that CME had identified 500 potential borough and privately owned properties as alternative sites.

"They are now filtering through those properties to determine if they might have the square footage that we would possibly need in order to construct a complex," Labbe said. "We're hoping that by the end of this week those locations, along with maps, will be identified."

"I think that everyone is hopeful, and everyone is optimistic, especially us," the superintendent said.

READ: Sayreville officials fight allegations they violated ethics laws

The depot, with an estimated cost of more than $5 million, will be designed to accommodate about 60 district-owned buses.

Labbe explained that plans for a bus depot have been in the works since 2017.

"We made a decision in 2017 to purchase our own buses, due to issues with the vendors," Labbe said. "We absolutely need a complex. We're really in a tough spot. There is only one big garage at the high school and that's 60 years old. Our mechanics, our drivers, our bus aides and our support staff deserve a complex."

Labbe said the buses are currently "gobbling up all the parking spots at the high school."

"We're down to 40 student parking spots at the high school," he said. "With the new buses coming, we'll probably be down to no student parking spots."

The school board and the borough discussed a plan in 2019 to build the depot off Cheesequake Road, but those talks stopped due to the pandemic.

According to Labbe, when he reached out to the borough in November after he was sure the district had enough money in its reserves to fund the project, he asked if that location was still available, but was told no. He also said he was told "there were no other known borough- owned properties available."

The school district then was forced to explore other district properties owned, the superintendent said.

Three options were considered  Truman, Eisenhower and Selover schools  and Selover was chosen.

Residents in the Morgan section of Sayreville have been speaking out against the Board of Educations plan to construct a transportation complex at Selover School.

"Selover School, while it is in the neighborhood, is less embedded in the neighborhood than the other two schools," he said. "The buses in our concept would be situated closest to the bay and away from any homes. The layout of the land there also lends to keeping the buses away from any residences. The buses would enter and exit off Bayview Avenue, which is a very wide street."

He said the school board is hoping to break ground on the depot in the fall of 2023.

Email: sloyer@gannettnj.com

Susan Loyer covers Middlesex County and more for MyCentralJersey.com. To get unlimited access to her work, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Sayreville NJ school board switches gears on bus depot plan
KOCHI: Actor Dileep on Thursday moved a fresh plea in the Kerala High Court opposing further investigation being carried out by the police in the sexual assault case of an actress, alleging that it was a 'wilful attempt' to protract the trial in the matter. The actor, in his plea filed through advocate Philip T Varghese, has contended that further investigation in the case was not permissible as a final report had been filed in November 2017, charges were framed in January 2020 and only one prosecution witness, one of the investigating officers, remained to be examined.

The petition alleges that under the guise of further investigation, 'a series of vindictive acts' were being carried out by the police. One instance of such acts was the allegedly false case foisted on the actor and other male members of his family accusing them of conspiring to murder police officers investigating the actress assault case, the petition claims.

It seeks quashing of the report, filed by the police in the trial court, allegedly containing the statement of filmmaker Balachandra Kumar and further proceedings pursuant to the same. Kumar had recently made some startling revelations against Dileep in the actress assault case through the media.

He has also claimed that there is evidence including digital ones to prove that Dileep had influenced the witnesses. The actor's latest plea also seeks a declaration that a further probe being carried out in the case was 'illegal' and a direction to the trial court to 'eschew' the same from the record.

The actress-victim, who has worked in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam films, was abducted and allegedly molested in her car for two hours by some of the accused, who had forced their way into the vehicle on the night of February 17, 2017 and later escaped in a busy area. The entire act was filmed by some of the accused to blackmail the actress.

There are 10 accused in the case and police have arrested seven. Dileep was arrested subsequently and released on bail.

Live TV
FILE PHOTO: Woman with smartphone is seen in front of displayed social media logos in this illustration taken

By Neil Jerome Morales

MANILA (Reuters) - Philippines lawmakers have approved legislation requiring social media users to register their legal identities and phone numbers when creating new accounts, a senator said on Thursday, in an ambitious move to thwart online abuse and misinformation.

The bill is a rare push by a legislature to compel users to disclose details that would allow them to be traced, in a country notorious for online trolling, disinformation and use of anonymous social media accounts.

"It is our little contribution to fight the anonymity that provides the environment for trolls and other malicious attacks to thrive in the age of social media," said Senator Franklin Drilon, one of the authors of the bill, which was passed by the lower house and senate but still requires presidential approval.

"This new provision will prevent anyone from making anonymous accounts online so they could attack anyone endlessly and viciously."

It was not immediately clear from the bill how social media companies would know if a name or number used to register an account was false. The law prescribes punishments of jail or large fines, or both, for providing false information.

Twitter and Facebook have come under pressure in the Philippines to combat fake news and inauthentic accounts, particularly around politics.

Facebook declined to comment on the Philippine law and Twitter did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

It comes ahead of a general election in May that will choose a president, lawmakers and thousands of political posts, with social media set to be a key campaign battleground.

A well-organised social media campaign was credited with catapulting Rodrigo Duterte to the presidency in 2016, and his critics say his supporters have ensured he remained powerful through use of trolls, influencers and misinformation to discredit and threaten opponents.

The president's office has rejected that and says it does not condone abuse of social media.

Story continues

The Philippines has one of Asia's highest number of smartphone users, at 79 million of its 110 million population, and Filipinos top global rankings of most time spent on social media and internet each day, according to some studies.

The bill, called the "Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Card Registration Act" also requires owners of all cellphone SIMs to be registered with operators.

The country's three telecoms firms welcomed the bill, saying it will help prevent crimes such as text scams and fraud.

(Editing by Martin Petty)
Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan is expected to announce his resignation by the end of the week, a senior DUP source has said.

It comes amid the partys protest against the Northern Ireland Protocol and follows his colleague Edwin Pootss decision to order a halt to agri-food checks at Northern Irelands ports.

The European Commission has said the decision by DUP Agriculture Minister Mr Poots to stop the checks creates further uncertainty and unpredictability.

It is understood senior DUP figures are meeting later to confirm the timing of Mr Givans resignation statement, which could come as early as Thursday.

The resignation of the First Minister would automatically remove Sinn Fein deputy First Minister Michelle ONeill from office.

In those circumstances, other ministers in the administration could still remain in place. However, the Executive could not make any significant decisions.

That would prevent the coalition from agreeing a three-year budget  a spending plan that is currently out for public consultation.

A planned official state apology by Mr Givan and Ms ONeill to victims of historic institutional abuse, scheduled for March, may also not happen.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has repeatedly threatened to bring down the Stormont institutions in protest against the so-called Irish Sea border, introduced as part of the post-Brexit protocol.

Mr Poots issued a unilateral direction on Wednesday evening, instructing officials to stop the agri-food checks at midnight.

However, there has been no confirmation from Stormont officials whether they intend to comply with the order.

DUP rivals at Stormont insist Mr Pootss direction is unlawful and civil servants are obliged to follow the law at all times.

An EC spokesperson said: The European Commission has been working tirelessly with the UK Government to address practical challenges related to the implementation of the protocol.

The decision by the Northern Irish Minister for Agriculture (Edwin Poots) is therefore unhelpful.

It creates further uncertainty and unpredictability for businesses and citizens in Northern Ireland.

The European Commission will closely monitor developments in Northern Ireland pursuant to this announcement.

Vice-president Maros Sefcovic will speak to the UK Foreign Minister Liz Truss on Thursday afternoon to continue our discussions on finding durable solutions for the people of Northern Ireland.

He will recall that controls on goods arriving in Northern Ireland from Great Britain are a key element of the protocol.

They are necessary for Northern Irish business and citizens to continue to benefit from access to the single market for goods.

They are also necessary to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland.

Lorries were still being received at a Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) checking facility in Belfast Port earlier on Thursday morning.

Lorries are still being received at the Deara checking facility at Belfast Port. Several have entered since the first ferry arrived from Cairnryan at 6am. A staff member declined to confirm to @PA whether the NI Protocol agri-food checks were continuing. pic.twitter.com/dACTvYBzfM  David Young (@DavidYoungPA) February 3, 2022

Several vehicles entered the facility after the ferry arrived from Cairnryan in Scotland at 6am.

A staff member declined to confirm to PA whether the agri-food checks required under the protocol were continuing.

The picture is further clouded due to the fact some of the port checks have been delegated to local council staff, while UK Border Force personnel also have a presence at the facilities. It is unclear what would happen to their roles if the Daera staff withdrew.

Mr Pootss direction only relates to the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) checks required by the protocol. The customs procedures on Irish Sea trade are unaffected by his instruction.

Announcing the move on Wednesday, Mr Poots said legal advice he had sought on the issue supported his view that he was entitled to stop the checks.

The UK Government has said it will not intervene in what it has characterised as a matter that falls within the Stormont Executive.

Government critics dispute this contention, highlighting that the UK has a duty under international law to abide by the terms of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement.

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis has denied claims the development is a stitch-up between the Government and the DUP.

No, absolutely not, he told ITV on Wednesday night. This is a decision that the minister in Northern Ireland has taken.

Mr Pootss order came after he last week failed to secure the wider approval of the Stormont Executive to continue the checks.

The minister argues that in the absence of Executive approval, he no longer has legal cover to continue the documentary checks and physical inspections.

His bid to seek a ministerial vote at the Executive last week was branded an electoral stunt by other parties, and Sinn Fein used its veto to prevent the issue from getting on the agenda.

The other parties insist the Executive has already agreed Mr Pootss department has responsibility for carrying out the checks and he does not have the authority to halt processes that are required under the Withdrawal Agreement, an international treaty.
About halfway through the 40-page report now before the Legislature on options to fight our prison crisis is a discussion of uneven sentencing across Nebraska.

It is worth noting in some detail.

The Criminal Justice Reinvestment Working Group found that stark fluctuations across the state illustrate that a persons release type and length of time served is dictated largely by where they are sentenced as opposed to the specific circumstances of their case.

The group, which included Gov. Pete Ricketts, Chief Justice Mike Heavican, legislative Judiciary Committee Chairman Steve Lathrop and other key leaders, thankfully agreed that outcomes of the justice system should be driven by the circumstances of the case and not geography.

Immediately preceding the quotes above, the report says that Nebraska law does not prioritize access to treatment and services for individuals with behavioral health needs over incarceration, and this has led to a patchwork of programs with disparate outcomes across the state. For instance, diversion programs are administered on a county-by-county basis, with the county attorney solely responsible for establishing a pretrial diversion program. As such, the availability of these programs across the state varies widely, depending entirely upon the county attorneys willingness to establish and oversee a diversion program.

Similarly, a lack of uniform admissions standards hinders access to problem-solving courts, established to address substance abuse, mental health, domestic violence and re-entry to society after prison.

With fewer treatment options for substance use disorder or mental health diagnoses, the parts of the state outside of the larger cities have limited options to address the underlying behavioral health challenges that contribute to criminal behavior. The result of this is the use of prison for individuals with drug and/or mental health challenges.

Folks, thats not what prison is for. Nonviolent drug offenders and nonviolent criminals in need of mental health care do not get better in prison, particularly prisons so crowded and understaffed that some inmates are locked down for days at a time or sleep side-by-side in plastic, toboggan-like bins with mats.

These drug offenders do not come back to our communities better equipped to earn a living, be good parents and neighbors, and stay out of trouble.

It does not make the public safer to continue this practice.

We have alternatives, offered in the report and that are being employed successfully. The working group agreed that the state should support ways to increase mental health services for everyone, expand problem-solving courts and better support and provide incentives for people on parole and probation.

Members were unable to reach consensus on the idea that we should reduce penalties for simple possession of small amounts of illegal drugs other than marijuana. In Nebraska, all such cases are felonies  in other words, a person with a half-gram of cocaine risks prison time, when their crime indicates a substance abuse issue more than a need to live in horrid conditions with violent felons.

The working group did agree that the state should create different punishments for different levels of theft and burglary. Burglary includes breaking into an occupied home to commit a crime as well as breaking into an abandoned building to use drugs. In most states, these two very different types of conduct with significantly different levels of severity are different crimes. Additionally, burglary is the leading property offense admitted to prison in 2020.

Similarly, a person who has obtained prescription opioids illicitly is committing a different crime than someone who buys a half-ounce of cocaine. Non-marijuana possession cases accounted for 13% of prison admissions last year.

Some working group members object to taking similar steps for drugs as they agreed to recommend for burglary and low-level theft. Its an intellectually inconsistent position that suggests both lack of understanding and lack of compassion surrounding addiction.

Seventeen of the working groups recommendations achieved consensus  we wait to see whether they will make their way into policy.

Graduated penalties for possessing drugs other than marijuana is a non-consensus option the Legislature should seriously consider if we are to address root causes of our prison crowding, be fiscally responsible and protect public safety.
On the night of February 3 to 4, 2021, Lokman Slim was murdered near Nabatiyeh in southern Lebanon. His body was found in his rental car. He was executed with six bullets to the torso and head. No one claimed the attack.

On February 3, 2022, the day for commemorating the murder of this independent Lebanese intellectual of Shiite faith, the Lokman Slim Foundation was officially launched in Beirut. Its purpose is to document and analyse political assassinations particularly in Lebanon but also countries in the Middle East and North Africa region, which have been plagued since independence by armed conflicts and political crises causing serious violence against civilians.

Through his NGO UMAM Documentation and Research, Lokman Slim had first worked to preserve the memory of the Lebanese civil war. This centre, founded with his wife Monika Borgmann in 2005, fought amnesia, exposing unhealed wounds and taboos through publications, exhibitions and documentaries, and making its resources available to all. "He kept a space open for discussion and that's one of the reasons he was killed," says Lynn Maalouf, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East at Amnesty International.

Lokman Slim also documented political assassinations of intellectuals, researchers, journalists and opponents in the region. "He had launched a program entitled 'Who killed whom?'" recalls Hana Jaber. a researcher associate in Contemporary History of the Arab World at College de France. His widow and Hana Jaber have decided to pursue this work with the new foundation.

Fighting trivialization of political murders

This new research centre is exceptional in its ambition, since no other centre deals specifically with the issue of political assassinations, even though it haunts all these countries. "When we looked at the creation of these States, we realized that at the time of their construction there were always one or two political crimes, before the balance of power stabilized," notes Hana Jaber, now scientific director of the Lokman Slim Foundation. "Then, with the establishment of authoritarian regimes, the logic of eliminating critics took hold."

The private research, documentation and statistics institute Information International, based in Beirut, has recorded 104 political murders and 94 attempted murders in Lebanon alone between independence in 1943 and the murder of Lokman Slim. No investigation has resulted in a real judicial process, except for the one conducted after the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri in February 2005. That investigation, which lasted 15 years involving a UN and a trial in absentia before an international tribunal, came to an inglorious end without much of an outcome. "There is a tradition of political assassinations in Lebanon, which continued after the war. The murders of intellectuals and writers show how certain factionsand certain regimes want to prevent creation of spaces for freedom of expression," says French-Lebanese political scientist Ziad Majed. "Its important to work against forgetting, against this banality of political murder, against impunity, because this impunity is the poison of the region."

Documenting and explaining the violence

"By political assassinations, we mean not only politicians, but also intellectuals, journalists, religious figures, diplomats, doctors -- in short, any unarmed person killed for expressing their opposition, Hana Jaber says of the Lokman Slim Foundation's work. This foundation will essentially be doing something that normally falls to the judiciary and the state, but does not intend to replace them, she stresses. "Our idea is to create a database for each murdered person, starting with a technical file: name, date and place of birth, biography, murder, investigation, etc. Then we also want to extend this work with interviews, memories, letters, everything that can restore flesh and speech to the victim. To bring back to life those who have been silenced.

This work is essential, according to many researchers, to explain that violence is not inherent to the region but has a history and roots; to counter the idea that these countries are doomed to chaos; and to respond to the despair and resignation of its citizens. "For many years, we have had societies based on forgetting and denial," laments Syrian Sana Yazigi, who created the Creative Memory of the Syrian Revolution website documenting the Syrian uprising and the war that followed. "To heal our wounds after an assassination, a failed uprising, an explosion, a war, we are not invited nor equipped through laws and rights to seek the causes, analyse and demand justice. For most people, only God is left to save us. We go to church or to the mosque to forget. We shout and pray, then we turn the page. But in order to heal societies, we need to entrench a culture of judicial responsibility: whoever commits a crime will be judged, regardless of their rank, social or political status. In an interview, Lokman said: I hope the Syrians will not follow the Lebanese example... an amnesty can never erase a memory."

Absence of justice

"This culture of impunity is at the root of the collapse of Lebanon today," says Lynn Maalouf. "Here, all forms of violence have gone unpunished, whether during the 1975-1990 civil war, the post-war Israeli and Syrian occupations, or today." None of the militia or party leaders involved in Lebanon's 15-year conflict have been tried, except for Samir Geagea of the Lebanese Forces militia, who was convicted of killing former prime minister Rachid Karameh and several of his rivals in the Christian camp in 1987. He spent 11 years in prison. He is the only one.

"Those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity subsequently became members of parliament and politicians, in power and therefore untouchable. The amnesty law that they voted in their own favour in 1991 institutionalized the absence of any trials," recalls Lynn Maalouf. "It is this same political class that has remained in power up to now, and it has perpetuated this culture of impunity.

Denouncing the negligence of the political class

And the attacks have continued. "Lokman is only the last victim on the list," sighs Hana Jaber. She points out that he was killed shortly after an interview in which he accused the Syrian regime of having brought in the stock of ammonium nitrate responsible for the port explosion in Beirut in August 2020. According to him, Hezbollah, a Shiite political party and very powerful armed group in Lebanon, was to transport it to Syria. Lokman Slim had also received death threats at the time of the 2019 popular uprising, which he supported. For a long time, he denounced the control of Hezbollah and the Amal party over the Lebanese Shiite community, and the negligence of the political class.

The rooms of his family home in Haret Hreik, a southern suburb of Beirut, are overflowing with books, newspapers, films, and memorabilia collected to document these decades whose memory has been swept under the carpet. It is now the foundation bearing his name that will "continue his work," says Hana Jaber.
The Congress will stage a protest in front of the BBMP office on Saturday to highlight the governments apathy towards filling up potholes in the city, former minister Ramalinga Reddy said on Wednesday.

Addressing a press conference, Reddy, a KPCC working president, said the BBMP and the state government have failed to fill up potholes despite strictures from the Karnataka High Court.

So far, nine people have died because of potholes, he said. We have organised a protest outside the BBMP office on Saturday. If permitted, we will gather in a large number. Otherwise, we will hold a symbolic protest.

BBMP polls

Reddy also accused the BJP government of taking up the delimitation exercise of the BBMP  from 198 wards to 243  to serve its political interests in the upcoming civic body polls.

BJP MLAs and MPs along with the RSS are doing the delimitation in their office. They are doing it as per their needs just to come to power, Reddy said, adding that the BBMP polls may be held in April.

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JDE Peet's, a coffee and tea company, has appointed WPP's Amsterdam team as its strategic creative partner.

Following a competitive process, JDE Peet's creative accounts were consolidated into an operating model to find a partner that would drive brand value through creative excellence.

The team, made up of experts from WPP, including Design Bridge, which already has a long-standing partnership with JDE Peet's and Wunderman Thompson, will work to align brand strategy and design with creativity in more than 40 markets.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

STOCKHOLM (AP)  Sweden on Thursday joined other European nations in saying it will remove coronavirus restrictions.

It is time to open Sweden again, said Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, announcing the restrictions would be removed from Feb. 9.

Among the measures and recommendations that will be lifted, Sweden will allow people to return to restaurants with no limitation on how many people can be there, how much space there should be or opening hours. Requirements for vaccine certificates and wearing face masks on public transportation will also be removed, as well as the recommendation to limit social contacts.

Sweden's Priime Minister Magdalena Andersson announces during a digital press conference that Sweden will lift nearly all Covid-19 restrictions on February 9th, in Stockholm, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. (Marko Saavala/TT via AP)

On Tuesday, neighboring Denmark took the lead among European Union members by scrapping most restrictions. Hours later, Norway lifted its ban on serving alcohol after 11 p.m. and the cap on private gatherings of no more than 10 people.

The pandemic is not over but has entered a totally new phase, Andersson stressed.

Social Affairs Minister Lena Hallengren told the same news conference that authorities will continue to be vigilant about how the pandemic will develop.

The reason for the Swedish move is similar to that in Denmark: Although there is an increase in infection rates, it is not burdening hospitals. High vaccination rates are also making the situation look more hopeful. Andersson said 80% of all Swedes over the age of 50 have now received three vaccine doses.

___

Follow APs pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic
PALO ALTO, Calif., Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitcoin Latinum (LTNM), the next generation, insured, asset-backed cryptocurrency poised to revolutionize digital transactions is announcing it has officially been pre-listed on Binance.com for live, up to the minute market research, trading data, and token performance. Binance is one of the world's largest exchanges for buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies. It boasts 28.6 million users, with its 2021 exchange volume skyrocketing to $7.7 trillion.



Bitcoin Latinum's profile on Binance can be viewed at: https://www.binance.com/en/price/bitcoin-latinum

Bitcoin Latinum trades publicly on HitBTC ($6.2 billion in daily volume), FMFW.com ($4.5 billion daily volume), Changelly ($2.71 billion in daily volume), Changelly Pro, LBank ($1.1 billion in daily volume), DigiFinex, Hotbit, AAX, and XT.com exchanges under the ticker LTNM. Monsoon Blockchain, Bitcoin Latinum's lead developer, has announced LTNM will also list on Bitmart ($1.6 billion in daily volume), and 10 additional global exchanges by the end of 2022. Bitcoin Latinum can be researched on Binance, CoinBase, Coin Market Cap, and Coin Gecko.

As a cornerstone of Monsoon Blockchain's strategic plans to further the mass adoption of Bitcoin Latinum, the company has been forging global partnerships with corporations and influencers. Bitcoin Latinum recently announced a partnership with A-list music artist Quavo of the world-renowned group Migos, to launch Cyber Yachts NFT's.

For more information about Cyber Yachts, please visit https://cyberyachts.com/

Unico, in partnership with Bitcoin Latinum, launched an NFT marketplace called UnicoNFT that features thousands of digital artworks and will include the new collections of Quavo-branded Cyber Yachts. In addition, OSO ATM will launch 100,000 Bitcoin Latinum ATMs across the United States, and The h.wood Group will accept LTNM across the company's diversified portfolio of upscale nightlife and restaurant venues.

Story continues

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. This highlights Bitcoin Latinum Foundation's commitment to supporting the growth of a sustainable crypto ecosystem.

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.

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




Plans to scrap gas boilers within the next 15 years are in disarray, MPs warned yesterday.

Ministers have said they must be phased out but no clear date has yet been set for banning their sale.

Details of what help will be available to families making the switch  which will cost around 10,000 a household  have also not been issued.

The Government was 'failing to make progress', according to MPs on the Commons business, energy and industrial strategy committee.

Chairman Darren Jones said: 'The Government and energy companies should explain to bill payers why switching away from gas and insulating our homes is not only important in tackling climate change, but also a route to reducing energy bills.

A report by the Commons business, energy and industrial strategy committee has called on the government to give a clear, specific end-date through legislation for gas boiler sales

'The Government also needs to spell out what financial help will be put in place for those who need it most.'

Government should adopt a clear, specific end-date, regulating through legislation the phase-out of gas boilers, the report said.

Some 29 million existing homes in the UK need retrofitting with low carbon heating systems along with energy efficiency measures such as insulation, as part of efforts to cut climate pollution to net zero by 2050.

Around 600,000 heat pumps need to be installed a year in place of gas boilers - but the UK was nowhere near this target, and there were not enough skilled fitters to make this possible, the MPs warned.

The lack of progress was seized on by critics of the 'net zero' strategy, who called for the policy itself to be scrapped.

MPs on the committee said the Government should set a clear date in law for banning the sale of new gas boilers as part of efforts to cut emissions from houses.

In the report, the committee urges the Government to create a public awareness campaign to explain to the public how their heating systems will change and the potential costs and benefits of the shift.

The Government must also urgently develop a low carbon heating training programme, in partnership with industry and trade unions, and scale up the heat pump market to meet the Government's target of 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028, MPs said.

And it should bring forward rules which require new-build houses to phase out fossil fuel heating systems by 2025 to 2023.

It comes as research by charity Nesta found the average UK gas boiler emits around 2.2 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year - the equivalent of seven transatlantic flights between London and New York.

Craig McKinlay of the Net Zero Scrutiny Group of Conservative MPs, said: 'Asking people to replace their gas boilers with expensive heat pumps that fail to heat homes adequately, was always going to be a recipe for disaster.

'The new BEIS select committee report has shown how unrealistic the current plans are and they will not even achieve their desired outcomes.

'We urgently need affordable and deliverable policy alternatives.'

A government spokesperson said: 'Our landmark Heat and Buildings Strategy provides a clear and comprehensive plan for cutting emissions from the UK's homes, with plans to incentivise people to install low-carbon heating systems in a simple, fair and cheap way, including 5,000 grants for heat pumps.

'With industry we are aiming for big cost reductions of between a quarter and a half by 2025 as the heat pump market expands and technology develops.

'In total, we're investing 6.6 billion this parliament to decarbonise our buildings, saving people money on their bills and slashing pollution in the process.'
ISLAMABAD, Feb 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Feb, 2022 ) :At least 6 journalists were killed, 108 journalists were attacked and 13 media houses were targeted in 2021 while the spotlight on the denial of media freedom continued to be on Jammu and Kashmir where journalists often found themselves summoned to police stations, accused in FIRs registered, their houses being raided, being manhandled and/or being beaten by the security force.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the India Press Freedom Report 2021 by the Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG) said that the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and other Indian states including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Tripura topped the list of areas across India where journalists and media houses were targeted in the last year, reports South Asian Wire.

Of the six journalists killed, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar reported two deaths each while Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra reported death of one journalist each.

Eight female journalists faced arrest, summon, and registration of First Information Reports (FIRs).

" The highest number of journalists/media organizations targeted was in Jammu and Kashmir (25), followed by Uttar Pradesh (23); Madhya Pradesh (16); Tripura (15); Delhi (8); Bihar (6); Assam (5); Haryana and Maharashtra (4 each); Goa and Manipur (3 each); Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal (2 each); and Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Kerala (1 each)," read the report.

"The widespread attacks on the press freedom from Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) to Tripura are an indicator of the continuing deterioration of civic space in the country," stated Suhas Chakma, Director of the RRAG.

In 2021, at least 24 journalists were physically attacked, threatened, harassed, and obstructed from doing their professional works by public officials including police across the country, according to the report. Out of the 24 journalists, 17 were beaten by police. Physical attacks on journalists by police were mainly reported from Jammu and Kashmir.

During the last year, FIRs against 44 journalists were registered including in some cases multiple FIRs against the same journalists in several states.

Uttar Pradesh reported the highest registration of FIRs with nine; followed by six each in Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and three in Bihar; among others.

Out of the 44 journalists, FIRs were filed against 21 journalists under Section 153 of the IPC relating to promoting enmity.
The Gulf Coast Community Foundation plans a personal business branding workshop Feb. 23.

VENICE  Its time to register for the upcoming Building your Personal Brand workshop on Feb. 23. The workshop is for nonprofit organizations and presented through Gulf Coast Community Foundations Invest in Incredible initiative.

The program is intended to introduce the stages of developing your own personal brand statement while learning about strategically building your brand and how taking control of it will align you with opportunities to advance your career. The session is led by Kecia Carroll, a certified leadership consultant with extensive experience in business development, communications, and corporate social responsibility.

The workshop (8:30 a.m-noon) costs $35, which includes breakfast, and will take place at Gulf Coast Community Foundations headquarters in Venice. Reservations are required at gulfcoastcf.org/events.

Invest in Incredible is the Gulf Coast Community Foundations nonprofit capacity-building initiative. For more than 25 years, the Community Foundation has become the philanthropic home of over 950 families, individuals, businesses, and organizations that have established charitable funds. The foundation has invested over $430 million in grants in the areas of health and human services, civic and economic development, education, arts and culture, and the environment. Learn more at GulfCoastCF.org.

Submitted by Rachel Denton

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Gulf Coast Community Foundation plans personal brand workshop Feb. 23
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

In the United States, mortality is rising, with more deaths than ever attributable to alcohol and drug poisoning and to suicide, in conjunction with increasing rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Yet many other wealthy nations have seen rates of these so-called "deaths of despair" decreasing.

"In Europe, Canada, Japan, Australia, they're not having a problem or they're having it to a much smaller degree," says Penn neuroscientist Peter Sterling. "Here, we're having a massive problem." He and colleague Michael Platt wanted to understand the disparity and what the U.S. might learn.

"They have not seen this meteoric rise in people dying from drugs, smoking, eating badly, deaths through dislocation, suicide," says Platt, the James S. Riepe Penn Integrates Knowledge University Professor. "We wanted to isolate what's different between those countries and ours."

In a new JAMA Psychiatry paper, the researchers look at the matter through the lens of neuroscience, anthropology, and primatology, finding that, unlike in the U.S., the countries they analyzed offer communal assistance at every life stage, from universal child care to affordable college. Such support, the researchers conclude, protects individuals and families in the long term.

Countering conclusions

Platt and Sterling have known each other for decades, and since Platt arrived at Penn in 2015 have corresponded frequently. "We seem to share similar concerns," Platt says. "We'd been looking at the epidemic in deaths of despair the past few years. It hit home personally for me because where I grew up in a gritty part of Cleveland has been pretty devastated."

Then, in March 2021, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) published a report on the subject, comparing the U.S. to 16 wealthy nations, including Canada, Australia, Japan, and countries in Western Europe. "It was this 476-page document," Sterling says. "They don't ask in the whole 476 pages, what are these other places doing? How come they don't have this problem?"

The NAS report drew a twofold conclusion, Platt says. "Basically, it acknowledged that this is an epidemic, but the prescription is very mild. "We need more research, and we can't define despair." But how do you create an animal model of despair? I was dismayed."

Platt and Sterling decided to take a closer look themselves. First, they asked, from a neurological perspective, what do humans need to thrive? Second, they wondered whether understanding that could explain why deaths of despair were rising in the U.S. but not in these culturally, politically, and economically equivalent countries. They turned to the neurological question first.

An anthropological perspective

The human brain evolved to prioritize food, comfort, and companionship over most else, shifting its focus constantly to satisfy the need of a given moment. When one of these needs gets met unexpectedly, the resulting gratification from the surprise leads to a pulse of dopamine. Modern life, however, offers few opportunities for such surprises.

What's more, we no longer need to work collectively to hunt or find water, cooperative actions carried out by previous hunter-gather societies, says Platt. "They would then spend the rest of their time socializing, producing music, cultural behaviors that bind us together," he says, and this kind of shared living also leads to dopamine pulses.

"Our lives today are much more solitary and lack all the natural drivers that our brains evolved to get those pulses. When they don't happen naturally, people seek them out elsewheredrugs, alcohol, video games, social media," he says. "Plus, the human brain is so big and so costly that it takes two generations to raise a human up to be productive."

The human brain continues growing until people reach their mid-20s. "Only then are you beginning to take care of yourself. Only then are you taken in by the adults in the community," Sterling says. "Until then, you're taken care of by not just two parents but by two generations. The grandparent generation is the most productive. That's the way we've evolved, and it means that to raise a child is very demanding."

These factors in combinationthe lack of natural dopamine producers in more solitary modern life that now generally excludes the support of multiple generationslead to more despair and death, the researchers found. Yet this is true across the board for industrialized nations, so why has the U.S. experienced more alcohol- and drug-related deaths and more suicides?

Support across the lifespan

According to Platt and Sterling, it comes down to support across the lifespan, from prenatal care before a child is born and quality preschool and elementary education during childhood to affordable education beyond high school and paid time off for adults.

"Society looks very different here compared to the other 16 nations," Platt says. "The financial support is nowhere near what you see in these places. Many have universal pre-K and a very strong safety net, which includes substantial paid vacation, often to align with kids' breaks."

Devoting time to such non-economic activities is crucial for brain development and ultimate well-being, Sterling says. "Part of our human evolution and allowing people to develop intellectual intelligence was to devote a lot of the brain to arts," he says. "People used to have that time. Now, people in the U.S. are not given any time off. They're not allowed to have paid vacations. They can't afford them."

The U.S. could solve its health crisis around deaths of despair by adopting some of the best practices from other countries, the researchers conclude. These include income redistribution, universal child care, more affordable college, affordable health care, built-in paid family leave, a higher minimum wage, and mandated vacation time.

Of course, this work is correlational, not causal, Platt concedes. "We don't know with certainty that these factors are causing more deaths of despair. It's an impossible experiment to run," he says. "But the fact remains that in the U.S. there's much less social and financial support. People are dying earlier and earlier, and they're dying of causes that are preventable. A year ago, 70,000 deaths from drug overdose was a record, and now we have 100,000 deaths. What else is that than people dying of despair?"

Explore further Regularly attending religious services associated with lower risk of deaths of despair

More information: Peter Sterling et al, Why Deaths of Despair Are Increasing in the US and Not Other Industrial NationsInsights From Neuroscience and Anthropology, JAMA Psychiatry (2022). Journal information: JAMA Psychiatry Peter Sterling et al, Why Deaths of Despair Are Increasing in the US and Not Other Industrial NationsInsights From Neuroscience and Anthropology,(2022). DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.4209
ARCHIVED - Fuel prices in Spain approach all-time high: how long will oil prices keep going up?



Experts believe petrol and diesel costs will continue to rise in Spain throughout the year

The price of a barrel of Brent oil, the benchmark for fuels across Europe, has risen above 90 dollars this week for the first time since October 2014. Rising oil costs have a direct impact on the price of petrol and diesel, and with the experts predicting that the so-called black gold will reach a record 100 dollars this year, motoring in Spain is set to become a whole lot more expensive.

Those in the know believe that the rising costs of petrol and diesel are a result of increased demand as the global economy regenerates after grinding to an almost complete halt at the height of the pandemic. And since the exact same amount of fuel is being produced, its a simple supply vs demand conundrum.

This increase in demand occurs at a time when the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is reluctant to increase its production levels more than expected and therefore there is a deficit in supply, explained Elena Diaz Aguiluz, Professor of Economics at the University of Comillas ICADE.

Over the last seven days, petrol has stood at an average of 1.520 euros per litre, the second-highest figure ever recorded, while diesel rose to 1.403 euros  a price not seen since 2013.

The bad news is that with OPEC determined not to increase its production beyond the usual 400,000 barrels, this escalation in fuel prices is likely to continue, at least in the short term.

As long as the economic recovery continues, prices will continue to rise. This trend will continue at least this year, the professor has predicted.

Despite the soaring costs in Spain, fuel here is still below the European average, where a litre of petrol costs an average of 1.66 euros.

Now read: 10 top tips to save money on fuel as prices skyrocket in Spain

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No specific date of Russian President Vladimir Putins visit to Turkey has been agreed yet, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Thursday, Tass informs.

February 3, 2022, 15:42 No specific date of Putins visit to Turkey announced yet, says Kremlin

STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: "Indeed, Presidents [Vladimir Putin of Russia and Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey] discussed some possible options in late February, or other dates," the Kremlin spokesman noted.

According to Peskov, both sides expressed their willingness to meet "as soon as the epidemiological situation and the schedules allowed." "There are no exact dates yet. But we hope that this will happen as soon as possible," the presidential spokesman said.

On January 26, Erdogan announced that he invited Putin to visit the republic. Besides, he expressed his desire to organize a "vis-a-vis" meeting between Putin and Zelensky, so that they could "continue their path on restoration of the atmosphere of peace."

Peskov confirmed that Putin accepted this invitation with gratitude. Meanwhile, he noted that Erdogans proposal only referred to bilateral contacts.

On Thursday, the Turkish leader expressed his hope that his Russian counterpart will arrive in Turkey after his trip to China. On February 4, Putin will attend the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Beijing.
No Ukrainian soldiers killed in Donbas over last three weeks  Reznikov

No Ukrainian soldiers have died on the contact line in Donbas over the past three weeks, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov has said at a press briefing on Thursday.

"We have recorded a decline in the number of military casualties. Not a single [Ukrainian] soldier has died over the past 21 days. I hope that it will be the same in the future. It means that the ceasefire keeps working. We count on a diplomatic solution as the core scenario," Reznikov said.

The intensity of the adversary's provocations has decreased as well, he said.

Meanwhile, Russia is continuing to supply weapons and fuel to certain districts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, the minister said.
PUL-E-KHUMRI, Afghanistan, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- About 500 poultry farms are operational in Afghanistan's northern Baghlan province, the state-run news agency Bakhtar reported Thursday.

Taj Mohammad Ahmadzai, director of the Agriculture and Livestock Department of the province, was quoted as saying that more than 20,000 people are working directly and indirectly for the poultry farms located in the provincial capital Pul-e-Khumri and other parts of the province.

The province also sells chickens and chicken products to other areas in the country, according to the official.

The official added that the provincial authorities will do their best to develop the local poultry industry to create more jobs and help alleviate poverty. 
Afghanistan: According to analysts cited by threNew York Times, more than a million Afghans migrated to Iran between October 2021 and the end of January 2022 as the war-torn country's economy crumbled. According to the study, relief organisations estimate that 4,000 to 5,000 individuals cross into Iran each day.

Though many people are fleeing because of the immediate economic hardship, the threat of long-term Taliban rule, with its restrictions on women and concerns of retaliation, has only heightened their desperation.

"The number of persons leaving Afghanistan by this route is increasing at an exponential rate, especially given how difficult this journey is in the winter months," said David Mansfield, an Afghan migration researcher. According to his estimations, up to four times as many Afghans left Afghanistan for Pakistan and then Iran each day in January compared to the same period the previous year, according to the report.

The migration has sparked fears across the region and in Europe, where lawmakers fear a repetition of the 2015 migrant crisis, which saw over a million people, largely Syrians, seek asylum in Europe, sparking a populist backlash. Many fear that as the weather warms and the snow-covered routes become easier to travel, a flood of Afghans may flood the European Union's borders in spring.

Turkey will not respect Council of Europe: Erdogan

Balochistan Nationalist Army emerged as Pakistan's new counter-terrorism threat

Antonio Costa unanimously re-elected as PM of Portugal
The United Arab Emirates said it intercepted three drones that entered its airspace over unpopulated areas early on Wednesday in the fourth such attack on the Gulf commercial and tourism hub in the past few weeks.

The first three assaults, including a missile attack on Monday during a visit by Israels president, were launched by Yemens Iran-aligned Houthis in an escalation with a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and which includes the UAE.

The Houthis have not yet announced a new operation and Wednesdays drones attack was claimed by a little-known group calling itself the True Promise Brigades, according to U.S.-based SITE Intelligence Group, which follows jihadist websites.

The groups only other claim was in January 2021, when it said it launched a drone at Saudi Arabia, which is locked in several proxy conflicts with rival Iran, including in Yemen.

The UAE defence ministry said it was ready to deal with any threats and was taking all necessary measures to protect the country which prizes its reputation as a safe business haven.

On Tuesday, the United States said it was sending fighter jets to assist the UAE after the attacks, one of which was aimed at a base hosting U.S forces and followed a Jan. 17 strike that killed three people in Abu Dhabi.

The unprecedented attacks on the U.S.-allied country are an escalation in the seven-year Yemen war. The Houthis had focused cross-border assaults at Saudi Arabia but extended them to the UAE last month after Emirati-backed local forces joined fighting against the group in energy-producing regions.

If confirmed, the claim by the True Promise Brigade could indicate an upswing in violence involving militias seeking to help ally Iran oppose Western and Gulf Arab adversaries, according to some analysts.

If Alwiyat al-Waad al-Haq came out of hibernation and did launch drones at the UAE  then this was likely an Iran-directed or at very least Iran-tolerated operation, Michael Knights at The Washington Institute for Near East Policy said in a Twitter post, using the groups Arabic name.

Sunni Muslim Gulf powers have called on global powers trying to salvage a nuclear pact with Iran to also tackle Shiite Irans regional proxies and missiles programme.

Tehran has not directly commented on the UAE attacks but has called for a political solution to the Yemen crisis.

Irans foreign minister discussed Yemen with his Emirati counterpart by telephone on Wednesday.

The UAE largely reduced its military presence in Yemen in 2019 and has been engaging with Tehran under de-escalation efforts largely driven by economic priorities.

SOURCE: REUTERS
(@FahadShabbir)

The Belarusian foreign ministry said on Thursday that it had lodged a protest with Ukrainian Ambassador Ihor Kyzym in connection with the launch of a drone from the Ukrainian side to Belarusian territory for reconnaissance in late January

MINSK (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd February, 2022) The Belarusian foreign ministry said on Thursday that it had lodged a protest with Ukrainian Ambassador Ihor Kyzym in connection with the launch of a drone from the Ukrainian side to Belarusian territory for reconnaissance in late January.

"On February 3, 2022, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Ambassador of Ukraine to Belarus Ihor Kyzym, who was expressed strong protest in connection with the targeted launch of a drone from Ukraine to the territory of Belarus," the ministry said in a statement, adding that it was launched "for illegal reconnaissance."
Olivier Severyns, CEO,

Snapshift, a Paris, France-based HR platform for managing the deskless workforce, raised $45m in funding.

Highland Europe led the round with participation from existing investors Bpifrance and UL Invest.

The company intends to use the funds to expand to all SMEs in the restaurant, hotel and retail sectors in Europe, with Spain as its first international target market.

Founded in 2016 and led by Olivier Severyns, CEO, Snapshift offers a digital planning and HR management hub, a People Operating System, for SMEs in the hospitality sector and beyond. The company helps businesses with 5 to 1,000 employees as well as franchises to improve how their teams work, communicate, and grow. The startup serves over 6,000 customers today including Subway, Pizza Hut, Spar, Amorino, Biocoop, Fitness Park, Columbus Cafe and Carrefour

The business now has over 70 employees.

FinSMEs

03/02/2022
SECAUCUS, N.J., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Quest Diagnostics ( NYSE: DGX), the nation's leading provider of diagnostic information services, today announced that its Board of Directors, as part of its ongoing leadership succession planning, has appointed James E. Davis, Executive Vice President, General Diagnostics, to be its next Chief Executive Officer, effective November 1, 2022. At that time, Mr. Davis will succeed Steve Rusckowski, who will have served as CEO for more than a decade. Mr. Rusckowski, 64, currently Chairman, CEO and President, will continue to serve on the Quest Board of Directors as Executive Chairman through March 2023.

"Today, Quest is the clear leader in diagnostic information services, positioned for continued execution of its ambitious growth plans under a new CEO in Jim Davis, who has been instrumental in accelerating growth and driving the company's operational excellence program for eight years," said Tim Ring, Quest's Lead Independent Director. "Jim is uniquely qualified to lead Quest in its next phase of growth, and this gradual and comprehensive transition process will ensure continuity for the company's strong market momentum."

Mr. Davis, 59, currently oversees Quest's general diagnostics business, accounting for more than 80% of the company's $10.8 billion revenues in 2021 and encompassing three-quarters of its employee base. Additionally, he manages the company's operations, including sales and marketing, patient services, logistics, laboratories, billing, and customer services. Mr. Davis joined Quest in April 2013 as Senior Vice President, Diagnostic Solutions, and was responsible for managing a portfolio of businesses and was instrumental in refocusing the business on diagnostic information services. He was named Senior Vice President of Operations in February 2014, overseeing the company's Drive Operational Excellence strategy and Quest's Invigorate program, which has consistently delivered 3% in annual productivity improvements. Since being named Executive Vice President for General Diagnostics in 2017, Mr. Davis has compiled a strong record of revenue and earnings growth through strengthening relationships with Quest's largest health plans and its hospital health system customers. In addition, he has been responsible for integrating Quest's regional lab acquisitions, and he has led the evolution of Quest's ESG strategy.

Mr. Davis has provided enterprise oversight for Quest's pandemic response. He oversaw the rapid development and expansion of Quest's molecular testing capacity, leading an agile team that innovated new testing techniques as well as new models for patients to get tested, such as drive-through retail sites and direct-to-consumer testing.

"I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to succeed Steve and lead Quest into the next phase of growth and build on our vision of empowering better health with diagnostic insights," said Mr. Davis. "Our company has never been more integral to patients and the healthcare system, as we have seen during the pandemic. Together with the Quest management team and all 50,000 of our colleagues, I look forward to building on the strong foundation we have put in place. Quest's future is bright, and we are extremely well positioned to continue to create value for shareholders as well as all the patients, customers and partners we serve."

Mr. Ring said: "Steve is a superb CEO who has led a team that has executed a well-defined strategy which has generated strong growth and shareholder value during his decade-long tenure at Quest. He has worked closely with the Board over the past several years in building a succession plan that ensures a smooth, gradual transition to new leadership. On behalf of the entire Board and all 50,000 Quest colleagues, I want to thank Steve for his leadership and his tremendous dedication and commitment to making Quest Diagnostics the exceptional company it is today."

"Quest Diagnostics is a great company with a powerful mission and well positioned to continue to deliver value for all of its stakeholders," said Mr. Rusckowski. "As I approached a decade in service as CEO, the Board and I determined that now is the right time to begin to turn the helm over to a new leader. Jim Davis is extremely well qualified to be CEO, having managed a large part of the company in his role as Executive Vice President. He has deep knowledge of Quest, the healthcare industry, and the corporate world, gained through more than 35 years of business experience. Jim is widely respected and will be a strong CEO."

CFO Transition

Quest also announced today that Mark Guinan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has announced his intention to retire in 2022, following eight and a half years in the role. A process to identify Quest's new CFO has begun. Mr. Guinan, 60, will participate in the selection process and will remain in his role through the transition.

Mr. Rusckowski continued, "I want to thank Mark Guinan for his many contributions as a key member of our leadership team as we have transformed Quest and accelerated its growth. I am especially grateful that Mark has remained central to our team throughout the pandemic, and that he will ensure that the transition to his successor is seamless."

Mr. Guinan said, "Quest Diagnostics is a special company with a meaningful mission and a strong team in place, and it has been a privilege to serve as chief financial officer. With the company well positioned for continued success after the pandemic, now it's time for me to step back and retire. I'm looking forward to participating in the process to identify my successor, who can support Steve and Jim in Quest's next phase of growth."

Additional biographical information on CEO-elect James E. Davis

Jim Davis joined Quest Diagnostics in 2013 as Senior Vice President, Diagnostics Solutions. Before joining Quest, he served as CEO of InSightec, Inc., a medical device company. Prior to that, Jim held senior management positions in a two-decade career in General Electric's aviation and healthcare businesses, including leading GE's MRI business for five years. Before GE, Mr. Davis led the development of strategic and operating initiatives for clients of McKinsey & Company, Inc. Mr. Davis holds a master's degree in management from the Sloan School of Management at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a master's degree in science from MIT and a bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Michigan.

Company accomplishments under Steve Rusckowski

Steve has served as Chief Executive Officer of Quest Diagnostics since May 2012. At that time Quest was not growing, and he led the transformation of the company into the leader in diagnostic information services with record financial performance in 2021. Mr. Rusckowski championed a two-point strategy to accelerate growth and drive operational excellence. He focused on improving relationships with health plans and hospital health systems; and expanding faster-growing businesses in advanced diagnostics and consumer testing.

Mr. Rusckowski also has driven Quest to be more inclusive. Today the company is overseen by a board of directors which is made up of 50% women and two people of color. In 2020, Mr. Rusckowski spearheaded the launch in 2020 of Quest for Health Equity, a $100 million commitment to reduce health disparities among the underserved in the U.S., particularly in communities of color.

During his tenure, Quest's revenues grew nearly 50% to $10.8 billion in 2021 and adjusted earnings per share more than tripled to $14.24. Since 2012, the company has generated $14.5 billion in cash, completed 41 acquisitions, and has returned $8.2 billion of its cash to shareholders through buybacks and dividends. At the outset of the pandemic, Mr. Rusckowski became deeply involved in the national response, partnering with elected officials and public health authorities, as well as healthcare providers, payers and retailers to quickly expand access to COVID-19 testing.

About Quest Diagnostics

Quest Diagnostics empowers people to take action to improve health outcomes. Derived from the world's largest database of clinical lab results, our diagnostic insights reveal new avenues to identify and treat disease, inspire healthy behaviors, and improve healthcare management. Quest annually serves one in three adult Americans and half the physicians and hospitals in the United States, and our 50,000 employees understand that, in the right hands and with the right context, our diagnostic insights can inspire actions that transform lives. www.QuestDiagnostics.com.

SOURCE Quest Diagnostics
Pakistan said Thursday security forces had successfully repulsed overnight militant attacks on two army bases in southwestern Baluchistan province that killed seven soldiers and 15 assailants.

Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said in a recorded video message that a clearance operation was underway in Nushki and Panjgur districts, where the raids took place late Wednesday.

The terrorists were repulsed from both places As of this moment, four or five people [assailants] in Panjgur are surrounded by security forces and will be neutralized soon, Ahmed said.

A military statement issued later confirmed the clashes also injured four soldiers. As per initial investigation, intelligence agencies have intercepted communications between terrorists and their handlers in Afghanistan and India, the statement said.

A separatist militant group known as Baluch Liberation Army took responsibility for staging the coordinated raids, claiming its so-called suicide squad stormed the Pakistani paramilitary forces camps and inflicted heavy casualties on them.

The authenticity of the claim could not be verified from independent sources, as separatists often issue inflated details for such attacks.

Wednesdays almost simultaneous militant raids came a week after dozens of heavily armed men linked to another outlawed separatist outfit, known as the Baluchistan Liberation Front, assaulted a military post in the provinces Kech district.

That attack killed 10 Pakistani soldiers while one attacker was killed in retaliatory fire and the rest managed to escape, according to officials.

Two days after the deadly insurgent raid, a bomb attack in another district killed three paramilitary forces and wounded eight others.

Baluchistan, rich with natural gas and minerals, has for years experienced insurgent attacks, but the violence has surged dramatically in recent weeks.

Pakistani officials allege Baluch insurgents receive support and funding from rival India, charges Indian officials deny. Baluch militants are believed to have established bases in neighboring Iran for mounting attacks in Baluchistan.

The province also borders Afghanistan, where Pakistani officials say Baluch militants have their sanctuaries.

The overnight attacks came hours before Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan left for Beijing to attend the opening of the Winter Olympics Games.

In a statement on Twitter, Khan paid tributes to security forces for defeating the attacks.

China has invested billions of dollars in infrastructure projects in the province and elsewhere in Pakistan as part of Beijings global Belt and Road Initiative.

Officials in both countries say the increase in militant violence is aimed at undermining the multibillion-dollar megaproject known as the China Pakistan Economic Corridor, which includes roads, power projects and ports in the South Asian nation.

The corridor aims to link the Chinese-operated Pakistani deep-water Arabian Sea Gwadar port to Chinas landlocked western Xinjiang border region.

The stepped-up separatist violence comes as the outlawed Pakistani Taliban, known as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, have also intensified attacks across the country, mainly targeting security forces.
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Ahead of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, China, a soldier who battled against the Indian side in the Galwan Valley in 2020 was announced as one of the torchbearers of the Olympic flame. Qi Fabao, a Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) unit commander who was injured in the Galwan battle, took part in the torch relay event on Wednesday. In a tweet, Global Times, an English-language news portal linked to the Chinese government, posted his images.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, Jim Risch, Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member, condemned Chinas move. He criticized Beijing for selecting a torchbearer for the Winter Olympics who was a member of the military command that attacked India in 2020, as well as for implementing genocide against the Uyghurs, as another allegation frequently leveled against China for cracking down on ethnic and religious minorities in the Xinjiang region.

It's shameful that #Beijing chose a torchbearer for the #Olympics2022 who's part of the military command that attacked #India in 2020 and is implementing #genocide against the #Uyghurs. The U.S. will cont. to support #Uyghur freedoms & the sovereignty of India.  Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member (@SenateForeign) February 3, 2022

The Chinese government has openly attempted to present Qi as a hero by appointing him a torchbearer, highlighting his involvement in the Galwan Valley battle. The action appears to be an expression of Chinas hostile sentiment towards India.

Furthermore, the Winter Olympics begin on Friday but have been hampered by politics and concerns about the coronavirus. The United States and several other Western countries have announced a diplomatic boycott of the Winter Olympics due to concerns over Chinas treatment of Uyghurs in the Xinjiang area.
Indeed, the dingy room where Fadlullah was kept speaks a lot about the quality and standard of Lviv Polytechnic National University, which incidentally is one of the only two higher institutions in Ukraine that are in the top 1000 of the 2021 Times Higher Education World University Ranking. The university is within the group of 601-800. Meanwhile, Nigerias premier citadel of learning, University of Ibadan, is far higher in rank as it is within the 401500 range; University of Lagos is in the group of 501-600

Almost a month into the death of Fadlullah Agboluaje, a Nigerian student admitted to Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ukraine, the school authorities are yet to tell the family what went wrong.

Fadlullahs death is an avoidable one that ought not to have been. But the young man is gone, and this is very painful. His sister, Rofeeha, had explained how her brother arrived in Ukraine on January 9, and was picked up from the airport by a representative of the university.

She said the young man was not particularly excited by the condition of the accommodation provided by the institution and had lodged a complaint about this. He had also complained that the heater in the room he was lodged in wasnt effective. Unfortunately, he couldnt get any help because the person at the front desk didnt understand English. He reached out to the schools liaison officer, but the man said Fadlullah should see him in the morning of the following day. He never did as he was found dead on the floor of his room the following morning, according to his family here in Nigeria.

Telling anyone to sleep in a room without heater in Ukraine in January is as good as asking the fellow to commit suicide. January is the coldest month of the year in Ukraine, with an average high-temperature of -2C (28.4F) and an average low-temperature of -6.3C (20.7F). The cold season in the country lasts for 3.8 months, with an average daily high temperature below 39F. As such, it is highly insensitive of the school authorities not to take this into consideration in catering for international students, especially those coming from tropical countries like Nigeria.

The university did not even have the decency to inform the family that Fadlullah had died. His mum had to reach out to different people for help when she couldnt get any response from her son when she tried speaking with him on the phone. The Universitys liaison officer dodged calls from the family and when one of the calls was eventually picked, it was a student in the accommodation facility who broke the bad news to them.

As usual, the Nigerian government has said that it is exploring options of taking up the issue of alleged negligence against the university. Chairperson of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said this during a visit to the deceased students family in Ebute Metta, Lagos State.

Dabiri-Erewa also said that the Nigerian authorities in Ukraine are providing assistance to help in the disclosure of issues that led to the students death. She, however, hinted that a preliminary autopsy report indicates that Fadlullah died of pneumonia due to (the) effect of extreme cold weather.

It is just too painful that young talents like Fadlullah are wasted because we live in a country that is so rich yet very poor  a country that has so much value and potentials but flounders in the deep ocean of poverty. We are blessed with so much human and natural resources, but we waste them on our profligacy. Otherwise, why should Ukraine of all countries be a learning destination for Nigerians?

This is not surprising. The picture of the young man, as shared on the social media before his death, did not suggest that he anticipated the cold in Ukraine. The best the university could have done in the circumstance was to help him survive the inclement weather as much as possible. A good room with a functional heater is the least of such support. The sister said, I looked at the picture on my uncles phone and my brother looked asleep in the blue shirt he wore from Nigeria, fully buttoned up and in a blue thick furred coat. They havent sent us another picture of my brother in his dead state.

Indeed, the dingy room where Fadlullah was kept speaks a lot about the quality and standard of Lviv Polytechnic National University, which incidentally is one of the only two higher institutions in Ukraine that are in the top 1000 of the 2021 Times Higher Education World University Ranking. The university is within the group of 601-800. Meanwhile, Nigerias premier citadel of learning, University of Ibadan, is far higher in rank as it is within the 401500 range; University of Lagos is in the group of 501-600; Covenant University, Ota, Ogun is ranked among the 601-800 institutions by Times Higher Education for 2021. So, this Ukarian university is not particularly too different, at least ranking-wise, from some Nigerian universities. Yet, it is the second best university in the Ukraine! So, what is the attraction? If all that Lviv Polytechnic could offer is the room in the picture displayed on the social media by Fadlullahs sister, Nigerians are really being short-changed by some of these education merchants.

It is just too painful that young talents like Fadlullah are wasted because we live in a country that is so rich yet very poor  a country that has so much value and potentials but flounders in the deep ocean of poverty. We are blessed with so much human and natural resources, but we waste them on our profligacy. Otherwise, why should Ukraine of all countries be a learning destination for Nigerians?

A governor in one of the South-West states once sent 85 medical students of the state university to the V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Kharkov, Ukraine to study medicine because the state forgot to build a teaching hospital when it established its Faculty of Medicine. Just imagine that  establishing a Faculty of Medicine without building a teaching hospital alongside this! So, the students could not proceed to the clinical class due to the non-availability of a teaching hospital. I am talking about the Osun State University (UNIOSUN). At the end of the day, 50 out of the 85 students graduated, 35 returned home and 15 stayed back. The State got back less than 50 per cent of the students it sent to Ukraine, although it paid fully for all of them. Where is the gain? Which is better, to establish a teaching hospital that will serve generations of the States indigenes or sponsor a few abroad on government expense  a practice that is not sustainable, anyway? Meanwhile, to the governor, that was success. He chose to spend the hard earned resources of the State to develop another nation at the expense of his own State, his people. How do we explain such thinking?

This dysfunctional thinking manifesting in different dimensions in our education sector is responsible for Fadlullahs unfortunate death. And despite the promise of the NIDCOM chairman to take up the case, there is no guarantee that Lviv Polytechnic National University will pay for its carelessness. The case of Itunu Babalola, a Nigerian who died in Ivory Coast prison after she was wrongly jailed, is still fresh in our memory. Before she died on November 14, 2021, NIDCOM said it was working to prove her innocence, but it never did as the lady died in the Ivorien prison eight months after NIDCOM had made the promise.

Using Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ukraine as a case study, I believe that some of the foreign higher institutions that Nigerians patronise are unnecessarily overrated. Some of them are probably worse than what we have here. The major consideration for many of them is commercial, so they do everything possible to attract Nigerians as foreign students. Even the best rated among them go to unimaginable lengths to attract Nigerians.

Itunus apartment had been burgled by an Ivorian in September 2019 and she reported the incident to the police but the DPO informed her that the suspect was his nephew. He reportedly offered her a settlement worth roughly N100,000 to drop the case, an amount lesser than the N300,000 worth of stolen effects. She was subsequently arrested when she refused the settlement, charged to court for human trafficking and sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Similarly, a Nigerian doctor, Gbolade Ejemai, was stabbed to death in Ukraine in 2019. Although the Nigerian Embassy in Ukraine had petitioned the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Police Department in Kharkiv demanding full investigations into the circumstances surrounding the alleged stabbing, nothing concrete has come out of it. These are just a few examples of interventions that never yielded any tangible results. Assuming that justice is even served, what is the value of that to a person that is dead.

Using Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ukraine as a case study, I believe that some of the foreign higher institutions that Nigerians patronise are unnecessarily overrated. Some of them are probably worse than what we have here. The major consideration for many of them is commercial, so they do everything possible to attract Nigerians as foreign students. Even the best rated among them go to unimaginable lengths to attract Nigerians. I have said it before that those countries going out of their way to attend to Nigerians seeking education in their lands are not doing so for altruistic reasons. They want our money. They need our money as part of the pool of funds to keep their institutions running. Many of them give us the impression that they are the only ones that can give us quality education and we swallow their narratives hook, line and sinker. There is always the other side of the coin.

Agreed, globalisation and internationalisation are contemporary issues in higher education. Hence, it isnt a bad idea for Nigerian students to benefit from the worldwide flow of ideas, values, culture and knowledge that comes with globalisation or the international, intercultural and global dimensions that internationalisation offers. But there is everything wrong in Nigerian students enriching other universities across the globe, making them more competitive, without a reciprocal arrangement for Nigeria to host these international students in our own land as well.

How do we position Nigerias higher institutions as global centres of learning in order to attract international students and advance the globalisation of higher education in a way that will profit Nigeria? That should be the preoccupation of the people managing our higher education at all levels. What are we marketing to the rest of the world about Nigerias higher education? If our products are as bad as we describe them to the world, how come these countries continue to attract our medical personnel, businessmen, tech experts and even our academic staff through all kinds of schemes and programmes? Its time to think!

My sincere condolences go to the family of Fadlullah Agboluaje. May his death not be in vain!

Olabisi Deji-Folutile is Editor-in-Chief, franktalknow.com and member, Nigerian Guild of Editors. Email: bisideji@yahoo.co.uk.
U.S. special forces successfully carried out a counter-terrorism mission in northwest Syria on Thursday, the Pentagon said, a raid which Syrian sources said was believed to have targeted a leading jihadist.

Helicopters landed and heavy gunfire and explosions were heard during the raid that began around midnight in the Atmeh area near the Turkish border, residents said. Several residents said at least 12 people were killed during the raid.

A video taken by a resident and seen by Reuters showed the bodies of two apparently lifeless children and a man in the rubble of a building at the location.

U.S. Special Operations forces under the control of U.S. Central Command conducted a counter-terrorism mission this evening in northwest Syria. The mission was successful, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said in a statement.

There were no U.S. casualties. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

A rebel official who declined to be named said the jihadist who was the apparent target of the raid was with his family at the time. Witnesses said the raid ended with aircraft, believed to be helicopters leaving the site, but unidentified reconnaissance planes were still hovering in the area.

JIHADIST GROUPS

Jihadist groups operating in northwestern Syria include Huras al-Din (Guardians of Religion), an al Qaeda-affiliated faction whose leaders include foreign fighters.

U.S. forces have used drones to target the group and other jihadists in the area for years, but Thursdays operation appeared to be the largest of its kind by U.S. forces in the northwest since Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi died in a U.S. special operations raid in 2019, said Charles Lister, senior fellow with the Washington-based Middle East Institute.

Islamic State fighters have been re-emerging as a deadly threat, aided by the lack of central control in many areas, according to a dozen security officials, local leaders and residents in northern Iraq.

The United States has offered rewards for information leading to the identification of senior Huras al-Din leaders.

Northwestern Syria is last remaining last big enclave held by insurgents fighting President Bashar al-Assad. The most powerful group in the area is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the former Nusra Front, which was part of al Qaeda until 2016.

The rebel official said security from the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group hurried to the location after the raid.

The Atmeh area is crammed with tens of thousands of Syrians who have been uprooted in the countrys war and live in makeshift camps or overcrowded housing.

SOURCE: REUTERS
Goodbye, crowded chemistry labs. So long to space crunches so severe that some 20% of UW-Madison students took introductory organic chemistry at a different university.

UW-Madison opened its gleaming nine-story Chemistry Tower to students this semester after months of construction delays. The new building at 1101 University Ave. will ease enrollment bottlenecks that have plagued the department for decades.

More than 7,000 students will take at least one chemistry class this semester alone. The new tower offers modern lab and learning spaces, a dramatic upgrade from the previous spaces designed in a computer-less era with different safety standards and lab equipment.

The new building is addressing a really serious need on the campus for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education, Professor Robert McMahon said Wednesday during a media tour.

Half of all UW-Madison freshmen take a chemistry course in their first year on campus. Nearly all students majoring in science, engineering and health fields require chemistry courses as prerequisites to courses in their major.

The chemistry department struggled with a tremendous enrollment crunch over the past two decades to keep up with demand, leading some students to take longer to graduate. The new building brings the department on par with its Big Ten peer schools, most of whom remodeled their facilities about 20 years ago, said McMahon, who co-chaired the building committee.

Taxpayer-supported borrowing funded $90 million of the $135 million project, he said. University funds and private donations covered the rest of the price tag.

Building features

The towers two lecture halls arent built on such a steep slope that is common in academia. The flatter floor design encourages collaboration, making it easier for students to turn around in their seats and work together on a chemical equation.

Instructors in the multipurpose learning studio can lecture or present, as well as assign group work with adequate space to spread out. The rooms functionality is something now-retired professor John Moore said wasnt previously available. He remembers having to schedule the two types of activities on different days and in different buildings.

The learning studio can also be opened up into the atrium for research fairs and receptions.

An information commons replaces the buildings library. No more book check-out. Students can access chemical literature resources online or secure one of the roughly dozen enclosed study spaces, each of which has drop-down presentation screens and laptop hook-ups.

We call it the library of the future, McMahon said.

Up a few floors are six state-of-the-art chemistry labs. Adjacent write-up rooms contain glass whiteboard walls. Movable desks and swivel chairs can form larger tables for groups to analyze lab data together. No similar space existed previously. Students would instead spill out in tight hallways or work at cramped, outdated lab benches with chemicals nearby.

Delays, lost research

The long-awaited completion of the new tower is a bright spot in what has been a rocky few years for the chemistry department.

Several building floors experienced severe flooding in 2019. COVID-19 hit the following year, stalling some research. In 2021, various construction problems related to the new building not only delayed opening of the new tower but closed parts of the older building wings, a shutdown that spanned nearly 90 days and cost $3.2 million in lost research progress.

The costs associated with the delayed opening of the new tower are still being determined, UW-Madison spokesperson Eric Hamilton said. The Bureau of State Risk Management and insurers for others involved in the project are evaluating the causes for the failures that resulted in the delay.

The shutdown of the buildings Daniels and Mathews wings affected the graduation timelines of more than half of the departments 400 graduate students. Some of them last fall called for direct compensation to make up for the loss of delayed future earnings.

UW-Madison has offered appointment extensions though an exact number is not available because the information isnt tracked centrally, Hamilton said. But the university will not be be offering compensation to offset students delayed career trajectories.

While the wing closures were inconvenient and unfortunate for students, researchers, faculty and staff, he said, they also placed a burden on UW-Madison, which has suffered its own harm, damage and cost, including to its reputation. The universitys legal team has advised that UW-Madison could not have done anything differently to avoid this harm.

Graduate students arent happy with the appointment extensions alone, sixth-year graduate student Marie Fiori said. But most are feeling relieved  and a bit overwhelmed  about being back in the building. Fiori said shes working extra to make up for the missed time out of the lab.
The World Health Organization (WTO) head warned Tuesday (1 February) it is too early for countries to declare victory over Covid-19 or give up attempts to stop transmission. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the virus is dangerous, and it continues to evolve before our very eyes. His comments came as Denmark became the first EU country to lift all its domestic Covid-19 measures, despite record numbers of Omicron cases. With the Danish government saying it no longer considers the coronavirus a socially critical sickness, this means that an indoor mask mandate, the use of a Covid pass for bars, restaurants and other indoor venues, and the legal obligation to self-isolate if you test positive are all ending. No one can know what will happen next December. But we promised the citizens of Denmark that we will only have restrictions if they are truly necessary and well lift them as soon as we can, Danish Health Minister Magnus Heunicke told the press on Monday (31 January). Thats whats happening right now.

Also other European countries have begun to ease curbs with hospital admissions not rising in line with record Covid cases. After the Netherlands, Belgium and France last week began to take steps to return to a semblance of normal life, Austria has lifted its lockdown of the unvaccinated, Switzerland is gearing up for a turbo reopening and Germanys finance minister has demanded an end date for Covid curbs as more countries prepare to ease pandemic controls. Although infections, driven by the highly transmissible Omicron variant, are still hitting record highs, data continues to show hospital and intensive care admissions are not surging in line with cases. Austrias chancellor, Karl Nehammer, said that from next Saturday (5 February), shops and restaurants would be able to stay open until midnight and the maximum number of people able to participate in events would rise from 25 to 50.

In Switzerland, meanwhile, experts who studied both Swiss and German infection rates said Omicron was significantly more infectious, but seemingly less severe, than the Delta variant and was unlikely to cause record numbers of admissions to ICUs. Amid estimates that up to 40% of Swiss companies were experiencing staff shortages due to quarantine rules, the Swiss health minister, Alain Berset, has called for remaining restrictions to be lifted from 16 February, saying he wanted a turbo reopening of the economy. Germanys finance minister, Christian Lindner, also said the government should be laying the foundations for a smooth return to normal, arguing that even though the peak of the Omicron wave may still be several weeks away, business required a planning horizon. Data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control on Monday suggested that the country, which is recording record high infection numbers, had failed to hit its goal of vaccinating 80% of the population before the end of January.
Yves here. Note that it is so obvious that the US has few good cards to play with respect to Ukraine that Tom Neuburger needs to provide only a short form kneecapping to make the point. In case you had any doubts, a fresh Wall Street Journal story provides further confirmation: U.S. Orders 3,000 Troops to Bolster European Allies in Russia-Ukraine Crisis. Mind you, to be deployed in three countries.

On top of that, there is substantial evidence that the US is way into WMDs in Iraq territory with its, um, exaggerations, regarding the Russian military presence. For starters, despite US claims that Russia has increased manning levels using a very generously defined near the border, they are lower than in April 2021.

By Thomas Neuburger. Originally published at Gods Spies

A 2015 scenario in which Russia invades Ukraine

Could the U.S. defend Ukraine militarily? What could do in the face of a Russian invasion? The answer is, almost nothing.

What could it do to itself in the process? Quite a lot of damage.

Consider this examination from Scott Ritter, a former Marine Corps intelligence officer and UN weapons inspector in Iraq from 1991-1998:

The Pentagon is in the process of preparing options for President Joe Biden regarding the deployment of US forces into NATOs eastern flank to seek to deter Russia from acting against Ukraine, or threatening NATOs easternmost members of Poland, Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania. Some 8,500 US troops have been put on standby to be prepared to deploy to Europe on short notice. These are the US contingent of the NATO Response Force, a multinational, 40,000-troop unit tasked with responding to aggression against member countries. If the US wanted to do more, it could deploy a few squadrons of US Air Force fighters, along with another heavy armored brigade, whose equipment is prepositioned in Poland, and some support troops. It could also send 3,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division, which is tasked to respond to crisis contingencies anywhere in the world within 18 hours. All these troops, however, even if assembled in aggregate, could not stand up to a potential Russian adversary, for the simple fact that none of these forces have trained to fight a modern combined arms conflict against a peer-level opponent. Putting troops and equipment on a battlefield is the easy part; having them perform to standard is harder, and having them execute doctrine that is no longer in vogue is impossible. Joe Biden might think hes flexing hard with this talk of military power projection. All he is doing, however, is further underscoring the absolute dismal state of combat readiness that the US military finds itself in after 20 years of low-intensity conflict in a losing cause. The time to have deployed 50,000 troops to Europe was in 2008, after the Russian-Georgian War, or 2014, after the Crimea crisis. Having 50,000 well-armed US troops refocused on the difficult task of fighting a sustained ground conflict in Europe might have forced Russia to reconsider its options. By considering this option now, all Biden is doing is proving the point that the US is a failing superpower, and NATO is lacking both purpose and drive.

Calling the U.S. military force in Europe a shadow of its former self, Ritter notes that what was available to the U.S. in Europe in 1990 was 213,000 combat-ready forces in US Army in Europe (USAREUR), with a total combat capacity  all forces available for deployment  of over 550,000 troops.

After the fall of the Soviet Union, the core U.S. force in Europe, USAREUR, was reduced to about 62,000 soldiers. The reduction in force of key NATO allies  Germany, the UK and others  followed a similar trajectory.

The Pretense of Power

Bottom line is this: The U.S. and its allies would lose a war with Russia over Ukraine:

Without projecting Russian intent, the reality is that the Russian military buildup in its western and southern military districts, when combined with the deployment of mobile forces in Belarus, represent a military power projection capability that is not only more than capable of defeating Ukraine, but also NATO forces currently deployed on its eastern flank. The chances of such an all-out conventional-style war may be extremely slim, but there is no doubting who holds the advantage here.

In other words, the U.S. has, in Scott Ritters words, the pretense of power.

What could the U.S. lose if Russia picks up the gauntlet Biden is throwing down? It could lose that pretense and be exposed for what it is, a bully fit only for beating selected victims.

If the U.S. keeps posturing, its up to Putin alone to decide whether to expose our weaknesses. If he doesnt, it may be an act of mercy.
The special security regime at the places of storage of military weapons and equipment of partners has been strengthened, because these are, among other things, the conditions for Ukraine's cooperation with the U.S. and Great Britain, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said.

"Indeed, a special security regime at the storage sites of military weapons and equipment of partners has been strengthened, because these are, among other things, the conditions for our cooperation with the U.S., Great Britain. Because obtaining weapons of destruction and protection of highly sensitive technologies, such as Javelin or NLAW there are conditions that they are stored in special places, under control, and our partners have a right to sometimes check whether we really comply with these conditions," Reznikov said on briefing in Kyiv on Thursday.

The Minister also announced obtaining by Ukraine of some "interesting things", which will be announced later and which Ukraine has not received before.

We will definitely keep them in proper conditions, they will not fall into the hands of the enemy. But we will demonstrate them in the near future at exercises at the training ground, he said.
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Priti Patel, UKs home secretary, has been accused of misrepresenting Sikhs after referring to Sikh separatist militancy as a common security threat between the UK and the US in a speech last November. Notably, the speech came into limelight when it was recently made public via social media.

On 19 November,2020, Patel spoke to the Heritage Basis, a think tank that advocates Conservative public policies and principles in Washington DC about the international image and the many risks that the UK and US face as allies, all of which endanger their common freedom and prosperity.

Sikh separatist extremism has also caused significant difficulties recently, she said simultaneously as mentioning Islamist extremist, Daesh, and extreme right-wing terror groups. The minister said that while they strongly support freedom of expression, it must always be done within the bounds of the law. Moreover, they have upgraded their disruptive capability to better combat those who seek to radicalise yet operate, often on purpose, outside of legal bounds. She further told the audience that she had outlawed the Islamist terrorist organisation Hamas in its entirety, including its political wing.

Meanwhile, Dabinderjit Singh, the Sikh Federations (UK) chief adviser, told sources that he has been raising this issue with several ministers since November, urging them to clarify her response. He revealed that no one has ever been able to give any clarification yet. This isnt just a speech; its a speech on the UK governments website. It may have been true if Sikhs had carried out a bombing in the United Kingdom. The chief went on to say that they are stunned by the words made by the house secretary. He added that she gave the speech on Gurpurab when UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson did not send greetings to the Sikh community, and when asked about it later, one of Johnsons special advisers sent him a Vaisakhi, Diwali, and Bandi Chhor Divas video. He noted that several international leaders have all wished the Sikh group on this day.

Priti Patel is actively engaged in a smear marketing operation to characterize Sikhs as extremists,' according to entrepreneur Taranjit Singh. Shes been using her position to attempt to deport innocent Sikhs to India to be tortured! he added.

The Sikh Press Association posted a video of her remarks on Twitter, with the caption: Such baseless statements additional create actual stress when thought-about with Patels makes an attempt to permit the UK Govt to revoke the citizenship of Sikhs and lots of different communities within the UK. That is partly why there may be a lot of Sikh assistance to cease the #NationalityAndBordersBil, referring to an invoice going via Parliament, which has a clause in it that supplies the UK authorities the correct to strip British residents of their citizenship without warning.
A note from dcblogger:

From National Nurses United:

Leave a Valentines Day message at CVS

For months, weve been organizing together across the country to call on CVS Health to cut ties with the Partnership for Americas Health Care Future  the largest anti-Medicare for All front group that exists today. And our Valentines Day request to CVS is simple: quit breaking our hearts by blocking Medicare for All.

https://act.medicare4all.org/signup/cvs-valentines/

Monica Vitti, Queen of Italian Cinema, Dies at 90 New York Times (J-LS)

Weather predicting Milltown Mel dies just before Groundhog Day Fox5NY (J-LS). An omen.

Secrets of Early Animal Evolution Revealed by Chromosome Tectonics Quanta (Kevin W)

Scientists Engineer New Material That Can Absorb and Release Enormous Amounts of Energy PhysOrg

Whats So Hard About Understanding Consciousness? Nautilus (David L)

Ulysses at 100: why Joyce was so obsessed with the perfect blue cover The Conversation (J-LS)

Mall Customers Shop for New Hips or Knees as Surgery Centers Fill Store Vacancies Wall Street Journal (J-LS). Anyone who goes this route needs their head examined. Knee replacements have a not great success rate as it is.

Does Quitting Smoking Increase Obesity? Evidence From Accounting for Misreporting NBER (resilc). The plural of anecdote is not data, but my middle brother, who was once the fittest of the three of us, is now over 400 lbs and attributes his weight gain to quitting smoking. He went from being a compulsive smoker to a compulsive eater.

#COVID-19

The Coronavirus Will Surprise Us Again Atlantic (David L)

Freedom Convoy: GoFundMe pauses donations to Canada truckers BBC

Science/Medicine

UK/Europe

A Chief Physician on the Perils of Germanys Omicron Strategy Der Spiegel (resilc)

Finance/Economy

Climate/Environment

China?

India

Brexit

Old Blighty

Met officer was promoted despite misconduct over sexist and racist messages Guardian. Kevin W: Cressida Dick is a protected member of the establishment who was groomed from the get-go. First heard of her in connection with the killing of that innocent Brazilian guy in a London tube station because they thought he might possible have been a terrorist  and so get several rounds into his head from point blank range as he was held down. And Dick was in charge of that operation.

New Cold War

Syraqistan

Big Brother is Watching You Watch

Imperial Collapse Watch

Biden

AOC insists its no mystery Congress wont ban members from trading stock Daily Mail (J-LS)

Remember all the videos trying to make these things look "fun" and "cool" ? https://t.co/EkD5VtEFo1  Read The Dispossessed by Ursula K. LeGuin (@JoshuaPotash) February 3, 2022

Democrats en deshabille

GOP Clown Car

Our Famously Free Press

Police State Watch

Facebook shares plunge more than 20% on weak earnings, big forecast miss CNBC (Kevin W)

Sen. Testers bill gives farmers right to repair Farm Progress (J-LS)

The Bezzle

The right to repair movement grows, but the devils in the details Stacey on IoT (J-LS)

Tesla recalls cars that may roll past stop signs BBC (David L)

Tesla drivers report a surge in phantom braking MSN (resilc)

Musk: Robots to be bigger business than Tesla cars BBC. Resilc: Failing on cars, and crashing on the moon, lets move on to the next failure.all a con for sci fi fans.

A new study has some surprising findings on car fires Popular Science

Building back worse: Wisconsins fight over the production of USPS vehicles Guardian

Why Is Matt Damon Shilling For Crypto? New York Times. Because actors perform for money. Look at all of the smiling bouncy actors in drug ads, fer Chrissakes. And then cognitive research has also shown that people start to believe in causes they tout, even when they know otherwise (the research is on lawyers are defending clients they know are guilty). All sorts of A list actors make embarrassing commercials in Japan because the money is really good and they are guaranteed to stay in Japan. And Mike Huckabee now touts OTC sleep aids and Newt Gingrich, some sort of anti title theft product on cable TV. As Churchill famously said, Madam, weve already established that [what kind of woman you are]. Now we are haggling about the price.

Guillotine Watch

Class Warfare

Antidote du jour. Tracie H: Sphynxie after a long hard day of watching out the window.

And a bonus:

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has insisted that he is not guilty in the defamation suit brought against him by Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah.

Former Trade and Industry Minister, Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, has filed a suit at the Kumasi High Court asking for 5 million dollars to be awarded him by Chairman Wontumi and his radio station for making comments on his media house, Wontumi FM to suggest that he is a thief.

In the said video, Mr, Wontumi said: All that Inusah Fuseini is saying is that even him, Inusah Fuseini is a thief. If you mention Spio-Garbrah's name he is a thief, Sylvester Mensah is a thief, Johsua Alabi is a thief, all their Presidential candidates are thieves so if John Mahama is a thief then let us allow him to continue stealing.

Mounting the witness box on Wednesday, Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako stressed that the said statement was only an interpretation of a comment made by Mr. Inussah Fuseini

Answering questions posed by lawyer for Dr. Spio-Garbrah, Nii Kpapko Samoa Addo, Chairman Wontumi likened his comment to how it would be interpreted for another person to make reference to Umuofia by Prophet Nigel Gaisie during his 31st December, 2021 prophecies. He explained that someone making reference to Nigel Gaisies usage of Umuofia cannot be held responsible for using it.

Appearing before the court, lawyer for Dr. Spio-Garbrah, Nii Kpapko Samoa Addo asked Mr. Antwi Boasiako to confirm if he made such a comment and mentioned his clients name.

The defendant however stressed that the comments cannot be attributed to him and as such he cannot held liable if the plaintiff feels offended by it.

There was back and forth between Nii Kpapko Samoa Addo and Bernard Antwi Boasiako as the latter appeared to be evasive in giving his answers.

Bernard Antwi Boasiako found it difficult to accept that a video exhibit presented in court which was a short portion of the said video in which he allegedly made the defamatory comments, was genuine. He stated that he believes it has been tampered with.

The Judge presiding over the case, His Lordship Justice George Krofa Addae adjourned the matter to 11th February, 2022, where Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako is expected to mount the witness box again.

The plaintiff, Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah has already mounted the witness box where his lawyer and lawyer for the defendants has cross examined him.
The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has withdrawn its personnel attached to Shina Peller (APC, Oyo), the federal lawmaker who sponsored a bill to scrap the Corps.

The notice of the withdrawal was contained in a letter to Mr Peller, a day after he introduced a bill seeking the scrapping of the agency.

Mr Peller had on Tuesday introduced a bill on the floor of the House of Representatives that seeks to repeal the law establishing the agency with the aim of the Nigeria Police Force taking over the assets of the agency.

The lawmaker, in his synopsis on the bill, described NSCDC as a waste of money and duplication of the functions of the police.

The NSCDC Act of 2003 led to the establishment of the Corps under former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Section 5(3) of the Act says the Corps shall have the power to arrest with or without a warrant, detain, investigate and institute legal proceedings by or in the name of the Attorney-General of the Federation in accordance with the provisions of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria against any person who is reasonably suspected to have committed an offence under this Act.

However, a day after the bill was introduced, the Head of Administration, Oyo State NSCDC Command, in a letter signed by Sotiyo Igbalawole, informed Mr Peller of the decision to withdraw its personnel.

Following the directive of the Commandant General on the necessity of the deployment of the Command personnel for an urgent National security assignment.

On behalf of the State Commandant; I hereby withdraw all the personnel attached to you, this is to meet up with the urgent national need.

Any inconvenience this might cause is highly regretted, the letter, dated February 2, reads.

ICIR had reported that the Oyo State Command of NSCDC, where the letter purportedly emanated from denied the letter and described it as fake.

Oyo State NSCDC Commandant, Adaralewa Micheal, denied that the letter emanated from their office.

PREMIUM TIMES could not reach Mr Peller to comment on the withdrawal as he did not respond to calls and SMS to his mobile phone.

But an aide to the lawmaker, Oladimeji Agbana, told this newspaper Wednesday that the letter was delivered to the lawmaker via WhatsApp.

He said the attached NSCDC officers are at the residence of the lawmaker in Ibadan, Oyo State, while Mr Peller is here in Abuja.

The letter was sent to the honourable via WhatsApp, they snapped the letter and sent it to the Honourable.

They are in Ibadan. They are not here. The news that we are getting is that they have left unless they are coming back now with the denial, Mr Agbana said.

NSCDC CG overrules withdrawal

The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Audi Ahmed, in a statement, overruled the purported withdrawal of officers of NSCDC attached to Mr Peller.

In the statement signed by the Director of Public Relations of NSCDC Headquarters, Odumosu Olusola, on his behalf, the CG said the officer lacks the power to issue the directive.

He noted that the directive was not authorised by the headquarters and therefore ordered the reinstatement of the personnel.

READ THE FULL STATEMENT

CG FROWNS AT WITHDRAWAL OF OFFICIALS ASSIGNED TO MEMBER HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE, ORDERS REINSTATEMENT.

The leadership of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has dismissed as unauthorized and without recourse to the Corps constituted authority, a letter signed and sent to a Member of the House of Representatives, Hon Shina Peller, informing him of the withdrawal of officials of the NSCDC assigned to him.

Not only did the officer in question lack the power to do such, he was also found to have acted on his whims without clearance. The Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, has therefore directed a reinstatement of the withdrawn officers with a compliment of necessary courtesies to the Honourable Member.

Signed:

DCC ODUMOSU OLUSOLA

DIRECTOR PUBLIC RELATIONS

NSCDC, NHQ, ABUJA.
Vietnams Ministry of Transport has asked the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam to issue permits for foreign airlines to bring Vietnamese citizens home, especially from areas with large Vietnamese communities, during the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday.

The ministry issued the request on Monday, following the prime ministers direction that relevant agencies completely lift all restrictions on entry for Vietnamese citizens to return home during this Tet holiday, which lasts at least a week from Tuesday.

As per his directive, PM Pham Minh Chinh agreed to the proposals of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Transport to promptly license foreign airlines to run flights for Vietnamese repatriates.

The PM asked the foreign affairs ministry to continue monitoring the situation of Vietnamese living in foreign countries and support them in returning home on flights operated by foreign airlines.

He also directed the ministry to take measures to protect citizens and to resolve urgent issues, especially during the Tet holiday.

The results of the repatriation must be reported to PM Chinh, the directive said.

The government chief also ordered the foreign affairs, public security, national defense, transport, and health ministries to cooperate with one another in receiving Vietnamese repatriates and applying appropriate health monitoring measures to them to ensure effective COVID-19 prevention and control.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
The share of COVID-19 tests that turned out to be positive stands at 32.01pct of the total number of COVID-19 tests carried out, the Ministry of Health informed on Thursday.

The highest rate of positive results - 38.36pct - was recorded on Monday."Within a period of 24 hours, 32,671 people infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus were recorded in Romania, out of a total of 102,045 RT-PCR and antigen tests performed. The share of tests that turned out to be positive out of the total number of tests performed is 32.01pct," said the Ministry of Health in a press release sent to AGERPRES.The Ministry of Health asks people with symptoms that may indicate the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus (fever, cough, fatigue, headache, loss of taste and smell, etc.) to call their family doctor, DSP (Public Health Directorate) call centers or the single emergency number 112 to ask to be tested.Also, people who show symptoms and are in Bucharest or Ilfov County are only allowed to travel by their own transportation means, and not by public transport, to the centres especially established for the collection of samples for testing for COVID-19.People who test positive can go to the assessment centres for consultation and treatment."If your condition is severe and your symptoms are aggressive, call the single emergency number 112," recommends the Ministry.Public health experts say vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe forms of COVID-19 and death."Today, of the 993 people in the ICUs, 840 are unvaccinated. Also, out of the 111 recorded deaths, 85 occurred in unvaccinated patients," the Ministry of Health said.
The Ukrainian side is ready for negotiations in Istanbul, as well as in Geneva and Vienna, in any place where there is disengagement, independence from one of the sides, namely from Russia, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov has said.

"President [Recep Tayyip] Erdogan publicly made such a proposal. I will tell you a secret, consultations were held with us, when I was still a member of the Ukrainian negotiating delegation in the Trilateral Contact Group, we answered in the affirmative: 'Yes, we agree if this platform will be, for example, in Istanbul.' The Ukrainian side is ready for negotiations in Istanbul, as well as in Geneva, and in Vienna, in any place where there is disengagement, independence from one of the parties, namely from Russia. We will be ready, but the other side must agree," Reznikov said at a briefing on Thursday.
Ahead of parliamentary elections in Hungary, a group of volunteers are printing and distributing their own newsletter aimed at countering what they say is a government stranglehold on media in rural areas.

These newsletters are the latest edition of Nyomtass Te Is! (You Should Print, Too!), a compilation of news stories selected and printed by Hungarian activists that is then delivered to rural homes across the country.

NTI is distributed to rural households by more than 1,300 volunteers who hope to highlight news they say is not covered by media aligned with the government of Viktor Orban. Parliamentary elections that will decide Orban's future are due to be held in Hungary on April 3.

Organizers of the newsletter liken it to the "samizdat" (self-publishing) of forbidden works of literature and art that was widespread on the Soviet Union's dissident scene. They say the Orban government has made such publications necessary due to a stranglehold over Hungarian media. A government minister told Reuters that international left-wing movements had been trying to discredit Hungary over its media landscape for years and said, "The reality is that the diversity and balanced nature of Hungarian media is a bright spot compared to what we can see in Western Europe."

Peter Nogradi told Reuters that the leaflets contain news that "does not appear in the mass media." "You can only read it on the Internet but not on all websites," he added. Many Hungarians in rural areas get their news from television and radio.

Nogradi, a retired software developer, says some people collect the leaflets, while others immediately dump them in the trash.
KYODO NEWS - Feb 3, 2022 - 21:23 | All, Japan

Japan and South Korea lodged protests with each other Thursday over their views on Tokyo's recent nomination for the 2023 UNESCO World Heritage list of a gold and silver mine site, which Seoul says is linked to wartime Korean forced labor.

South Korean Foreign Minister Chung Eui Yong expressed "deep disappointment and protest" when he held phone talks with his Japanese counterpart Yoshimasa Hayashi over Tokyo's attempt to register the mine on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture on the Sea of Japan coast, according to the South Korean Foreign Ministry.

Chung said Japan has not faced up to the history of forced Korean laborers during the country's 1910-1945 colonization of the Korean Peninsula, demanding Japan actively seek a solution acceptable to the Korean victims, the ministry said.

Hayashi, meanwhile, said South Korea's argument about the mine is unacceptable, Japan's Foreign Ministry said.

He told Chung that Japan-South Korea relations remain in a tough situation due to moves by South Korea on issues such as compensation to wartime laborers and "comfort women" in Japan's military brothels during World War II, and that Seoul should make an "appropriate response" to deal with it, the ministry said.

Hayashi also told Chung that Japan will have a sincere dialogue with South Korea so that Seoul will understand the mine as a cultural heritage, the ministry added.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last week announced that Japan would recommend the Sado mine, one of the world's largest producers of gold in the 17th century, for the World Heritage list.

The decision, a reversal of Tokyo's initial plan not to make a recommendation this year, immediately triggered an objection from Seoul.

Hayashi and Chung held their first official talks since Hayashi took office in November.

They only had a brief chat at an informal dinner in December when South Korea joined an expanded session of a Group of Seven foreign ministerial meeting in Britain.

During Thursday's phone talks, which lasted 35 minutes, they also shared concerns about repeated missile launches by North Korea this year and confirmed cooperation also involving the United States to deal with the North, the Japanese Foreign Ministry said.

Japan had proposed the ministerial talks to discuss the North Korean issue. But Chung brought up the topic of the Sado mine during the conversation, a Japanese official said.

Related coverage:

Japan recommends Sado mine for world heritage despite S. Korean protest
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Syrian house at center of U.S. raid Aaref Watad/AFP/Getty Images

U.S. Special Operations forces conducted a large-scale counterterrorism raid on a two-story house in Syria's northwest Idlib Province early Thursday, in pursuit of what one U.S. official told The New York Times was a "high value" target. The Pentagon gave only cursory details of the raid, near Atmeh, a town near the Turkish border. Local aid and monitoring groups said at least 13 bodies were recovered from the wreckage, including some women and children.

"The mission was successful," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said in a statement released early Thursday. "There were no U.S. casualties. More information will be provided as it becomes available."

Residents of Atmeh said U.S. helicopters flew in low a little after 1 a.m. local time, and a man speaking Arabic said through a loudspeaker that the house was surrounded and women and children should evacuate. "This went on for 45 minutes," nearby resident Omar Saleh told The Associated Press. "There was no response. Then the machine gun fire erupted."

After "a long, tense standoff," the Times reports, "a major battle erupted, with rocket-propelled grenades and other fire hurtling from the house and surrounding buildings toward the Americans." A U.S. helicopter malfunctioned and had to be blown up on the ground. A senior U.S. military official told the Times there was also an explosion inside the house caused not by U.S. firepower but more likely by the target of the raid blowing himself up. After about two hours, the U.S. forces left in the remaining helicopters.

"The size, scope, and duration of the battle suggested that the target of the raid was likely a senior Qaeda figure," the Times reports. "The fact that the United States risked sending in commandos, and not just launching airstrikes, also suggested the focus of the raid was a senior figure." U.S. officials said they could make an announcement as early as Thursday, following a DNA analysis.

Story continues

The Syrian Civil Defense, a first responder group known as the White Helmets, and Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group both said 13 people were killed, including at least four children and two women. A spokesman for the White Helmets said the group "cannot determine whether there were bodies that were retrieved by U.S. forces because there is blood everywhere."

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These at-home COVID-19 tests and more are currently available. (Photo: CVS)

At-home COVID-19 tests allow you to know your COVID status, whether you've developed symptoms of the virus or recently had close contact with someone who is infected. The problem is, these tests can be hard to find.

While at-home COVID-19 tests are now available to the general public at pharmacies, larger retailers and even grocery stores and online, they often fly off shelves as soon as they're stocked. CVS even has a message on its website, urging people to check back daily if a particular test they're interested in is out of stock, noting that it could be available again the next day.

Still, if you can find one, it's a good idea to grab it. "It makes sense to have a kit on-hand so its there if needed," Dr. Amesh A. Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, tells Yahoo Life.

Some tests have been granted an emergency use authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is a designation used during public health emergencies  like a global pandemic  that says the FDA recognizes that these tests can be used to diagnose COVID-19 and that certain criteria have been met. It's different from an full FDA approval, which typically comes only after a longer period of time has passed and more data is collected.

If you've never used an at-home COVID-19 test, you probably have some questions about what, exactly, these are and how they work.

There's some variation with at-home COVID-19 tests and how they work, but rapid tests are the most common type. (Some tests will have you collect a specimen and mail it to a lab, where it will be analyzed, but these are less popular, given that they take longer to get results.)

BinaxNOW delivers results in just 15 minutes. (Photo: Abbott)

Most at-home tests will have you do a nasal swab, per the Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but others will ask you to give a saliva sample. Every test is different, so it's important to read the instructions carefully before you test and while looking at results, the CDC says.

Story continues

A big question many people have about these tests is how accurate they are. Rapid COVID-19 tests aren't necessarily as accurate as PCR tests, which are considered the gold standard of COVID-19 testing, but they can do a lot. One meta-analysis published in March found that rapid antigen tests picked up about 72 percent of symptomatic cases that were confirmed positive by a PCR test. The rapid tests were less sensitive with asymptomatic infections, though, only confirming 58 percent of those cases.

Each test kit conducts its own research on how effective the company's product is at detecting COVID-19 and, in general, Adalja says they're "adequate" at telling if you're infected or not  especially if you have symptoms of the virus.

There are several options out there for at-home COVID tests, but those that are authorized by the FDA have shared their data online. Among some of the more common tests, BinaxNOW says its test detects 84.6 percent of positive COVID-19 cases and 98.5 percent of negative cases, Ellume says its test has 96 percent accuracy in detecting symptomatic cases of COVID-19 and is 91 percent accurate in detecting asymptomatic cases. Fellow EUA test InteliSwab says its test identified 84 percent of positive samples in clinical trials, and 98 percent of negative samples, while QuickVue says its test picks up 83.5 percent of positive cases and 99.2 percent of negative cases. On/Go says its test is 95 percent accurate when used within the first seven days after you developed symptoms, while the iHealth rapid antigen test says it's 94.3 percent accurate at correctly identifying positive cases.

QuickVue's COVID-19 test uses a nasal swab and strips to help tell your status. (Photo: QuickVue)

Ultimately, Adalja says, "the best rapid test for COVID is the one you can find."

With that in mind, we tracked down popular at-home COVID-19 tests that are still in stock. Here's where you can find them:

BinaxNOW : This popular at-home kit involves taking a nasal swab and waiting 15 minutes for your result. It includes two tests. You can find it at Walgreens for $24 and Walmart for $20.

QuickVue : This test kit has you take a nasal swab, put it in a solution, dip in a test strip and then wait for your results. It's $24 at CVS and $24 at Walgreens.

On/Go : This kit involves taking a nasal swab, putting it in a solution, squeezing a few drops of the solution into a test kit and waiting for your results. There's an app to guide you through the whole process. It's $24 at Amazon and $30 at Walmart for two tests.

iHealth rapid antigen test : This Amazon bestselling test kit has you take a nasal swab, dip it in a solution, add a few drops of the solution to the test kit and wait for your results. It's $18 at Amazon for two tests.

FlowFlex: This test was recently authorized by the FDA. It involves swabbing your nose, sticking it in a special solution and analyzing the solution in a test kit. It's $10 at CVS and $8 at Target.

Bottom line: If you can find an at-home COVID-19 test right now, it's a good idea to buy one  or a few. You never know when you may need them.

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On the highway heading south through downtown Buffalo, a billboard is displayed that describes New Yorks current abortion policy and calls for a repeal of the Reproductive Health Act (RHA). The billboard elicits much-needed attention to the inconsistencies among New Yorks abortion laws, current scientific understanding of fetal viability and the publics lack of support for later-term abortion (20-plus weeks of gestation).

Viability is the ability of an unborn baby to survive outside of a mothers womb, with or without medical intervention. In 1970, New York first legalized on-demand abortion pre-viability, which at the time rested within 24 weeks gestation. Decades later, in 2019, despite medical science and public consensus opposing later-term abortions in New York, the RHA was passed, which continued to legalize abortion for any or no reason within 24 weeks of pregnancy. By 2019, however, it was crystal clear that unborn children can be viable before this gestational age.

In the past 50 years, neonatal medical treatments have improved significantly and the age of fetal viability has decreased. Developments in science, technology and treatment practices have enabled premature babies as young as 22 weeks, and even younger, to survive outside of their mothers wombs. This change was not unforeseen. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day OConnor predicted that Roe v. Wade (1973), which legalized pre-viability abortion nationally, would be on a collision course with itself as medical advances moved the viability line.

According to the most recent data from Johnstons Archive  maintained by William Robert Johnston, who writes for the Global Life Campaign  every year, between 9,100 and 15,400 abortions occur after 20 weeks gestation in the country. New York contributes disproportionately to these numbers, with an average of 1,660 reported abortions after 20 weeks each year.

As the billboard illustrates, unborn children within 24 weeks can be aborted on-demand in New York, despite their viability. Neither fetal anomalies nor risks to womens health are necessary. Further, fetal anomalies or risks to mothers lives or physical health are not the primary reasons why the overwhelming majority of later-term abortions occur, including third trimester abortions. Like first trimester abortions, studies show that most second and third trimester abortions are elective, done on healthy women and healthy fetuses.

When scientific evidence regarding human viability has advanced, so should the law. Our laws are also supposed to reflect the will of the people. Anything less, dehumanizes and undermines democracy.

Michele Sterlace is executive director of Feminists Choosing Life of New York Inc.
The incidents were the latest in a series of attacks in the northwestern province. This came a week after ten Pakistani soldiers were killed in a terrorist attack on a security checkpoint in the Kech district.

Rashid said that terrorists attempted to attack two military camps on Wednesday evening. One of the camps was located near the city of Naushki and another in the Panjgur district.

In a video posted on Twitter, the Pakistani minister said both terrorist attacks were successfully repulsed by the Pakistani army adding that the military killed nine terrorists in Naushki and six more terrorists in Panjgur.

"Terrorists were driven back from both places... Several persons - from four to five persons - are surrounded [by the Pakistani army] in Panjgur. This is a great success the Pakistani army has achieved in the fight against terrorism," Rashid said in the video, as quoted by Xinhua news agency.

The Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attacks. (ANI)
[03/02/2022]

Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

[F.I.S.  FABBRICA ITALIANA SINTETICI S.P.A.]

Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement

BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).

The securities:1 Issuer: F.I.S.  FABBRICA ITALIANA SINTETICI S.P.A. Guarantor (if any): N/A Aggregate nominal amount: To be confirmed Description: XX% 5.5yrs Offer price: TBA

Other offer terms: [complete or delete as applicable] Stabilisation: Stabilisation Manager(s) BNP PARIBAS , CREDIT SUISSE Stabilisation period expected to start on: 3/2/22

Stabilisation period expected to end no later than: 12/3/22 Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of overallotment facility: The Stabilisation Manager(s) may overallot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law. Stabilisation trading venue: [Over the counter (OTC)] [insert venue name] [To be confirmed]

In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may overallot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or overallotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.

This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.

In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the Prospectus Regulation) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.

This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States.
STOCKHOLM (AP) - Sweden on Thursday joined other European nations in saying it will remove coronavirus restrictions.

"It is time to open Sweden again," said Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, announcing the restrictions would be removed from Feb. 9.

Among the measures and recommendations that will be lifted, Sweden will allow people to return to restaurants with no limitation on how many people can be there, how much space there should be or opening hours. Requirements for vaccine certificates and wearing face masks on public transportation will also be removed, as well as the recommendation to limit social contacts.

On Tuesday, neighboring Denmark took the lead among European Union members by scrapping most restrictions. Hours later, Norway lifted its ban on serving alcohol after 11 p.m. and the cap on private gatherings of no more than 10 people.

"The pandemic is not over but has entered a totally new phase," Andersson stressed.

Social Affairs Minister Lena Hallengren told the same news conference that authorities "will continue to be vigilant about how the pandemic will develop."

Sweden's Priime Minister Magdalena Andersson announces during a digital press conference that Sweden will lift nearly all Covid-19 restrictions on February 9th, in Stockholm, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. (Marko Saavala/TT via AP)

The reason for the Swedish move is similar to that in Denmark: Although there is an increase in infection rates, it is not burdening hospitals. High vaccination rates are also making the situation look more hopeful. Andersson said 80% of all Swedes over the age of 50 have now received three vaccine doses.

___

Follow APs pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic
The United States will send nearly 3,000 extra troops to Poland and Romania to shield Eastern Europe from a potential spillover from the crisis over the massing of Russian troops near Ukraine, U.S. officials said on Wednesday.

Russia has denied plans to invade Ukraine but signalled it was in no mood for compromise on Wednesday by mocking Britain, calling Prime Minister Boris Johnson utterly confused and accusing British politicians of stupidity and ignorance.

Moscow has deployed more than 100,000 troops near Ukraines borders and says it could take unspecified military measures if its demands are not met, including a promise by NATO never to admit Kyiv.

A Stryker squadron of around 1,000 U.S. service members based in Vilseck, Germany would be sent to Romania, the Pentagon said, while around 1,700 service members, mainly from the 82nd Airborne Division, would deploy from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to Poland. Three hundred other service members will move from Fort Bragg to Germany.

U.S. President Joe Biden said the deployment was consistent with what he had told Russian President Vladimir Putin: As long as he is acting aggressively were going to make sure we can reassure our NATO allies and Eastern Europe that were there, he said, according to media reports on Twitter.

The objective, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said, was to send a strong signal to Putin and frankly, to the world, that NATO matters to the United States and it matters to our allies.

We know that (Putin) also bristles at NATO, about NATO. Hes made no secret of that. We are making it clear that were going to be prepared to defend our NATO allies if it comes to that. Hopefully it wont come to that.

Polands Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said the U.S. deployment was a strong sign of solidarity. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg also welcomed it, saying the alliances response to Russia was defensive and proportional.

Efforts to reach a diplomatic solution continued, despite some Western countries describing Russias main demands as non-starters and Moscow showing no sign of withdrawing them.

Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed coordination of diplomatic efforts and plans to impose economic costs on Moscow should it invade Ukraine, the White House said. Macron said he was planning to talk to Putin soon too.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan is set to visit his counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky in Ukraine on Thursday after pitching Turkey as a mediator to ease tensions with Russia, while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said he would meet Putin in Moscow soon, without giving a date.

The Kremlin said Putin told Britains Johnson that NATO was not responding adequately to its security concerns. Johnsons office said he had told Putin an incursion would be a tragic miscalculation and they had agreed to apply a spirit of dialogue.

On Tuesday, Johnson had accused Russia of holding a gun to Ukraines head, drawing caustic remarks from Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov before the call with Putin. Johnson had rescheduled the call to answer questions in parliament about accusations his staff violated COVID-19 lockdown rules.

Russia and President Putin are open to communicating with everyone, Peskov said. Even to someone who is utterly confused.

Russias Foreign Ministry mocked Johnsons foreign secretary, Liz Truss, for saying in an interview that Britain was supplying and offering extra support into our Baltic allies across the Black Sea  two bodies of water that are on opposite sides of Europe  as well as supplying Ukrainians with defensive weapons. The UK Foreign Office later said she was listing separate geographic areas of support.

Mrs Truss, your knowledge of history is nothing compared to your knowledge of geography, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova wrote in a blog post. If anyone needs saving from anything, its the world, from the stupidity and ignorance of British politicians.

BEAR VS FOX

A day earlier, in his first public comments about the Ukraine crisis this year, Putin suggested Russia was being forced to protect itself from U.S. aggression.

Washington has said it will not send troops to Ukraine itself to shield it from a Russian attack, but would impose financial sanctions on Moscow and send arms to help Ukrainians defend themselves.

Russia, still Europes main energy supplier despite being under U.S. and EU sanctions since annexing Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, brushes off additional sanctions as an empty threat.

Washington and its allies have rejected Russias two main demands  that Ukraine be barred from ever joining NATO and that deployments of troops in eastern European countries that joined the alliance after the end of the Cold War be rolled back.

Spanish newspaper El Pais released what it said was a leaked copy of a U.S. response to Russian demands, in which Washington offered talks with Moscow on an agreement for both sides to refrain from stationing offensive missiles or troops in Ukraine.

Washington could also provide reassurance that it had no cruise missiles in Poland or Romania, and discuss steps to prevent dangerous incidents at air or sea, said the document, which appeared to be in line with the public U.S. position.

I have seen nothing to suggest these documents are not authentic, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said.

What we have conveyed  are proposals for further diplomatic engagement. This will require engagement in good faith, some concerted fairly technical discussions, if they are going to result in anything, he said.

SOURCE: REUTERS
Packs of cigarettes are displayed on a shelf at a CVS store in Greenbrae, Calif., on Feb. 6, 2014. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Californians Nagged Again on Smoking

Commentary

Back in 1967, I wrote my first news article. It was for 7th grade English class in my public junior high school in Michigan. I attacked smoking. Obviously I was reflecting what they were teaching us, and what the mass media were promoting. The schools still heavily advance anti-smoking health messages.

Lo these five decades later, were all familiar with the daily drumbeat of anti-tobacco ads and promotions. In California, its illegal to sell tobacco to anyone under 21, even though you can vote and join the military at 18. A pack of cigarettes costs about $10, sometimes higher, most of the price from taxes. And California is the state with the second lowest percentage of smokers, after Utah.

Yet theres still a lot of money around promoting anti-smoking messages, along with more laws to restrict use. On Wednesday, the American Lung Association in California released its 20th Annual State of Tobacco Control Report. The summary is a perfect expression of how to plead for more money: 2022 report recognizes progress, work to be done to reduce tobacco use in California.

They have to recognize progress because its obvious few people smoke, and progress shows theyre spending donations to good effect. But work to be done means they still need to get funding for their jobs.

The report does provide some interesting information. The state spends $251 million for tobacco control programs and the federal government another $3.6 million in California. Total: $251 million.

Yet the association wants to increase that to $348 million for best practices, or $97 million more. Well, every other special interest in the state wants a piece of action from the record surpluses. The current funding amount, the association complains, is just 73 percent of the CDC Recommended Level. But after the problems with the CDC during the pandemic now being revealed, mentioning it might not have been the best idea.

The state also inhales a whopping $2.8 billion in tax revenues from tobacco sales. So the state itself is a tobacco profiteer.

Its also curious one recommendation not in the report is for higher taxes. Experience in other states and Canada shows if taxes go too high, the black market in smokes grows and revenues drop.

Overall, California was given a B grade for its efforts. Specific grades:

B: Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Funding;

A: Smokefree Air;

B: Tobacco Taxes;

B: Access to Cessation Services;

I: Flavored Tobacco Products.

The last is the latest bugaboo of anti-tobacco activists. Its I for incomplete because Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a ban in 2020, Senate Bill 743. But a repeal initiative sponsored by the tobacco industry will appear on the Nov. 8 ballot and already has received $20 million in campaign contributions from the industry.

The argument for banning flavored tobacco is it supposedly attracts children. But given everything kids are exposed to these days, on the internet and broadcast outlets, that seems dubious.

When the initiative qualified last year, Newsom charged, This is Big Tobaccos latest attempt to profit at the expense of our kids health. California will continue to fight back and protect children from Big Tobacco.

The tobacco industry also has pointed out how SB 743 was full of hypocrisy because it exempted hookas, flavored pipe tobacco and aromatic cigars from the ban. But hookas are part of some cultures, and cigar smoking is not unknown among legislators. When Arnold Schwarzenegger was governor, he even got around the ban on smoking in the Capitol by setting up a cigar-smoking tent outside.

My guess is the initiative will fail. Newsom, who is running for re-election, and other candidates will do a lot of preening on how they are protecting the children.

The bottom line is tobacco use is about as low as it can go, including among children. Take it from me. I wrote against it 55 years ago.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said that all weapons supplied by Western partners to Ukraine are necessary for protection.

After part of our territories was occupied, we increase the level of our defense capability and the capabilities of our army. We fundamentally understand what we need. I am not ready to speak publicly today about what and with which country we negotiate in detail and what we get. It is very important for us that all these weapons are all for protection. We think only about peace. We think only about the de-occupation of territories and only through diplomacy," Zelensky said in Kyiv on Wednesday at a joint press conference with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte.

He also said that Ukraine would no longer give up a single piece of its territory.

"That's why we have prepared a separate list of what our army needs," he said, recalling the signing of a decree to increase the size of the Ukrainian army by 100,000 people over three years and increase their benefits.

"I believe that we will do it faster, increase our professional contract army... These are understandable steps, because this question is about containment, except for the diplomatic steps that are taken not only by us, but also by the leaders of European states. They communicate with the Russian Federation in various other formats, and prepare a list of important sanctions," he said.

As Zelensky noted, there is a divergence of views on the issue of sanctions "among the people of Ukraine and some European leaders."

"We are talking about preventive steps, we know that the world leaders are divided. Some say that these should be partially preventive sanctions, others - that in the event of increased escalation from the Russian Federation, but the dialogue is ongoing," the president said.
Construction equipment is parked for the night Thursday, Sept. 23, 2021, inside the ecologically sensitive Bell Bowl Prairie on Cessna Drive at Chicago Rockford International Airport in Rockford.

ROCKFORD  Several arms of the federal government have joined the Greater Rockford Airport Authority in asking that a lawsuit brought against them over the preservation of a 25-acre piece of land be thrown out of court.

The U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of the Interior, Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, four agencies named in a complaint filed by the Natural Land Institute back in October, responded to the lawsuit Monday.

The airport had already made its position known last month. It has no plans to stop working on a $50 million expansion project at the Chicago Rockford International Airport.

The airport claims the institute has no legal standing or rights to protect what is known as the Bell Bowl Prairie, which is located on airport property. The federal agencies say the suit should be dismissed because of lack of standing and jurisdiction.

"There exists no viable legal theory for (the Natural Land Institute) to keep its claims against the federal defendants in district court. This case should be dismissed accordingly, a Jan. 31 memo states.

Kerry Leigh, executive director of the Natural Land Institute, speaks at the institute's news conference on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021, at Winnebago County Courthouse in Rockford. Natural Land Institute filed court documents this week to temporarily halt a construction project at Chicago-Rockford International Airport that would destroy the remnants of the Bell Bowl Prairie there.

The Natural Land Institute claims the federal agencies violated state and federal conservation acts when they greenlit the expansion project, allowing the Greater Rockford Airport Authority to disturb the Bell Bowl, land conservationists say is a remnant of an ancient prairie that houses rare and endangered plants and insects like the rusty patch bumblebee.

Rockford airport: Conservationist group's lawsuit should be thrown out

In a Jan. 19 response to the airport's motion to dismiss the case, the Natural Land Institute argued that the possible destruction of the prairie will have an impact on the community and NLI's nearly 700 members, who have helped manage the prairie since the 1950s.

For decades, NLIs employees and members regularly managed, observed, visited, studied, or otherwise enjoyed BBP, the response states. "NLI and its members  as well as the public at large  derive aesthetic, recreational, professional, economic, and personal benefits from the unique and rare co-location of various fauna and flora on (Bell Bowl Prairie)."

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Dozens of supporters of the Bell Bowl Prairie look at native plants there on Thursday, Sept. 23, 2021, at Chicago Rockford International Airport in Rockford. The airport has Federal Aviation Administration clearance to build new roads and buildings in the ecologically sensitive Bell Bowl Prairie on its property.

The response further accuses the airport authority of breaching a 1977 agreement that allowed the institute to perform ongoing land management on Bell Bowl Prairie. The unsigned agreement was terminated by the authority's board in December.

Members of the Natural Land Institute and its supporters are calling on the Greater Rockford Airport Authority to redesign the expansion plan, namely a service road that would cross the prairie.

Work is on pause until March 1 so airport officials can determine whether federally protected rusty patch bumble bees are hibernating in the prairie.

Parties are due back in court on Feb. 17.

Jim Hagerty: jhagerty@rrstar.com; @jimhagerty

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Federal defendants in Bell Bowl Prairie want lawsuit dismissed
Backed by institutional investors and expanding in the four largest US markets, the SaaS platform for executors is democratizing estate settlement and planning

OMERS Ventures leading the funding round, joining an elite ownership group including Diagram, Torstar, Triangle and National Bank of Canada

ClearEstate expanding, recruiting extensively in four largest US states

Poll: Nearly  of executors say the process is among "life's most difficult challenges"

MONTREAL, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - (TNKR Media): ClearEstate, a platform that supports executors and planners by streamlining tasks and professional services related to estate planning and settlement, has secured a US$13.25 million Series A funding round, led by a prominent Canadian institutional investor, OMERS Ventures.

Created in 2020 following co-founder and CPO Alexandre Gauthier 's challenges settling his own late mother's estate, the Montreal-based startup with offices in Ontario, California and Texas is now supported by some of Canada's most credible investors, including Diagram Ventures, Torstar, Triangle Capital and NAVentures, the venture capital arm of the National Bank of Canada.

ClearEstate is a family finance hub that can save executors approximately 120 hours of their time and $8,500 in fees. An average North American estate settlement will cost families about $10,000. Adding to the burden is the probate process upon the death of a family member, which is most complex for the executor. They are responsible for completing a series of mandatory administrative tasks that Gauthier has described as "being audited by the IRS every month for 18 months," the typical length of the process.

Despite the daunting tasks, new polling data from Maru Public Opinion for ClearEstate suggests about nine in ten North American adults appoint a person close to the family as estate executor. Nearly two-thirds of Americans polled (63%) described the loss of an immediate family member as one of life's most difficult challenges, disrupting their personal and professional lives; among those appointed executors, nearly three-quarters (74%) agreed. This is where ClearEstate steps in.

With robust expansion plans throughout Canada and in the four most populous US states (California, New York, Texas and Florida), ClearEstate is growing its all-in-one estate asset management suite. The company also offers estate planning in advance, professional executorship services and bereavement benefits packages; an emerging trend among employers to further the financial security of employees amid a competitive recruiting environment.

Following this latest fundraise, ClearEstate's growth trajectory will focus on extensive recruitment in both the US and Canada, as the company seeks empathetic, diligent and forward-thinking software engineers, full-stack web developers, estate professionals, and web sales and marketing specialists. All roles are expected to be remote.

"We are humbled to have the confidence of OMERS, an organization that values multi-stage growth for those preaching institutional change," said ClearEstate CEO and co-founder Davide Pisanu , previously a senior vice president with Cirque du Soleil. "OMERS is an important addition to the team as ClearEstate builds a network of support for executors across North America. We are not just addressing a little-known consumer pain point with solid tech, we're tackling an unjust system that saddles ordinary families with extraordinary amounts of paperwork at a time when they should be healing."

"Because we exist to serve the half a million members of the OMERS pension plan, the emerging needs of an ageing population are always top of mind for us," said Shawn Chance, Partner, OMERS Ventures. "We feel confident that ClearEstate's team and technology are addressing a significant gap in the market by adding much needed transparency and ease to the estate planning and settlement process for the average person."

As the largest wealth transfer in human history is expected in the coming years, ClearEstate will be calling on institutional partners across North America  governments, financial institutions, the courts, etc.  to once and for all optimize the estate settlement process, eliminating waste and offering families a more dignified, restful mourning period.

About ClearEstate

ClearEstate is changing the way estates are planned and settled. Founded in 2020, its mission is to demystify the responsibilities facing estate executors and help guide them through the entire process, including probate, as efficiently as possible. Backed by institutional partners in Canada and the United States, ClearEstate is committed to promoting transparency and empathy during some of life's most difficult moments  one step at a time.

About OMERS Ventures

OMERS Ventures is the venture capital investment arm of OMERS, one of Canada's largest pension funds with over CAD$114 billion in net assets. OMERS Ventures is a multi-stage investor in growth-oriented, disruptive technology companies across North America and Europe.

SOURCE ClearEstate Technologies Inc.
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) speaks to reporters in the basement of the Capitol on his way to a votes regarding judicial nominations on Wednesday, February 2, 2022.





Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) is getting pushback from a fellow Democratic senator for his decision to grant Republicans a second chance to ask tough questions to a key Interior Department nominee.

Laura Daniel-Davis, President Biden's pick to be assistant Interior secretary for land and minerals management, is set for a second round of questioning from the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, which is chaired by Manchin, even though she already had a confirmation hearing in September and the committee has already voted on her nomination.

Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), who previously chaired the panel, blasted the second hearing without naming Manchin in a statement to The Hill.

"Senator Wyden believes the first time Laura Daniel-Davis testified at length on her nomination before the Committee was sufficient," a Wyden spokesperson said. "This second hearing is nothing more than an opportunity for Republicans to badger, bully and harass a well-qualified nominee for a job that needs to be filled."

Sen. John Barrasso (Wyo.), the panel's top Republican, asked Manchin for another nomination hearing, according to spokesman Mike Danylak.

Danylak said that Barrasso wanted a second hearing to investigate what he described as an "assault" on energy independence by the Biden administration. He also said that department officials haven't answered "numerous" questions from the senator on issues related to her role.

"Since her last failed vote in Committee, Ms. Daniel-Davis appears to have continued the assault on Wyoming's economy and our nation's energy independence from her position at the Department," the spokesman said.

The panel deadlocked in a vote on Davis's nomination in November, with 10 Democrats, including Manchin, supporting her and the panel's 10 Republicans opposed to her nomination.

The tie vote still allows the nomination to be considered on the floor of the Senate, where Vice President Harris could break a tie if there is a 50-50 vote.

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"Additionally, DOI officials, including her chain-of-command, have also not responded to numerous questions from Ranking Member Barrasso on issues relevant to Ms. Daniel-Davis' position. He expects answers from Ms. Daniel-Davis at the hearing," Danylak added, without specifying what the questions were.

Manchin has made no public statements about why the second hearing was scheduled. The hearing was added to the committee website's schedule without further explanation.

Manchin's office didn't respond to requests for comment prior to publication. After publication, a committee aide confirmed that the second hearing was in response to a request from GOP committee members, and pointed to the precedent for such hearings.

While Wyden's statement indicated displeasure with the second hearing, spokespeople for the committee's other Democrats also did not respond to requests for comment.

The Interior Department also declined to comment on the decision to have the second hearing.

But the decision left other supporters of the nomination fuming.

Aaron Weiss, deputy director of the Center for Western Priorities, said "it was a mistake" for Manchin to allow the second round.

"Nothing has changed, the vote will be exactly the same, everyone knows that, so this is just a chance for Barrasso to grandstand again with the same outcome," he said. He added that it was "incumbent" on Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) to schedule a full floor vote on the nomination.

While it's uncommon for committees to ask nominees to come in for second hearings, it isn't unprecedented.

In 2014, when Wyden himself was in charge of the committee, it took a second look at then-President Obama's nominee for another Interior role.

Rhea Suh, whom Obama picked to be assistant Interior secretary for fish, wildlife and parks, faced a second round of questioning in 2014 after a request from then-ranking member Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). Democrats held the majority at the time in the Senate.

The scheduling of the hearing is also notable because Manchin has been at odds with fellow Democrats over the past year on a number of issues.

He announced his opposition to the nearly $2 trillion Build Back Better legislation approved by the House in a December interview with "Fox News Sunday," a surprise at the time that led to a furious White House response.

The legislation had already been substantially changed in an effort to meet the demands of Manchin, but it now increasingly looks like it may never make it to the president's desk.

Just last month, Manchin thwarted any Democratic hopes of moving forward with voting rights legislation by saying he would not agree to an exception to the Senate's filibuster rule to allow a vote on the measure. Fellow centrist Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) also opposed making an exception to the filibuster.

Wyden, who now chairs the Senate Finance Committee, has been a key part of the Build Back Better talks and has been a vocal advocate for the clean energy tax credits that are a major part of the bill's climate benefits.

Manchin has also remained somewhat at odds with his party on environmental issues over his embrace of fossil fuels including natural gas and his own ties to the coal industry. His opposition led Democrats to drop a program from the Build Back Better measure that would have sought to incentivize the shift to clean electricity.

At the same time, Manchin in recent weeks has said the remaining climate provisions in Build Back Better are areas he could support, particularly its clean energy tax credits.

Updated at 11:53 a.m.
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Back pain can be debilitating  here's how to get help. (Photo: Getty)

Ill never forget the first time I started having back issues. I tried to hop out of bed in the morning as usual and it was excruciating. It took me several minutes to fully stand up straight, and I spent the day shuffling around, totally hunched over.

Sitting was incredibly painful, so I started working standing up. After driving, Id spend several minutes awkwardly standing next to my car, trying to get fully upright again before I could start walking. At one point, my upper torso shifted to the left and locked up that way, forcing me to walk around crooked.

I finally got an MRI and discovered that I had several herniated discs. My doctor isnt sure why it could be something as simple as repeatedly lugging around my sons (incredibly heavy) car seat. Ive seen several back pain specialists and have been told that theres nothing they can do for me, short of surgery or steroid injections, both of which Id rather avoid.

After years of physical therapy, I finally found a solution that works for me: Biking and swimming, along with daily stretching and core strengthening at home. It requires time and energy, but Ill happily do it if it means I can avoid back pain in the future. And so far, so good.

I know Im not alone in my battle against back pain. According to data from the American Chiropractic Association, half of all Americans say they have back pain symptoms each year. And, with more people staying at homeand moving lessdue to the pandemic, those numbers are expected to increase.

If youre struggling with back pain, its a good idea to be evaluated by a specialist to try to figure out why youre having issues, Dr. Christopher Wolf, orthopedic spine surgeon at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles, tells Yahoo Life. And, if you can figure out the source of your pain, you can work to avoid making the same mistake again, physical therapist Susan Fu, co-director of Rehabilitation Services at Providence Saint Johns Health Centers Performance Therapy in Santa Monica, Calif., tells Yahoo Life

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Once youre evaluated by a doctor or physical therapist, they can help determine next steps. But that generally involves some form of stretching, ice and heat therapy, and strengthening, Wolf says. And, to really make it work for you, youll probably need to do a lot of this at home on your own. Fortunately, there are many products that can help.

Here are some tools to pick up if your back pain struggle is real.

A ready ice pack is a must. (Photo: Amazon)

Ice can help soothe pain when inflammation gets to be too much. The ColePak has a flexible ice pack that conforms to your back, as well as elastic straps, so you can wear this on the go. Keep in mind that gel packs like this one get really cold, so you might need to wear a shirt between you and your pack, Fu says.

Shop it: ColePak Comfort Reusable Ice Pack, $16, amazon.com

These little balls make DIY massages easy. (Photo: Amazon)

You can usually help work out a muscle spasm through massage, but thats kind of difficult to do at home on your own. Thats why Fu recommends having a bunch of balls handy. You can place one up against a wall and lean into it. The key is to allow yourself to relax when using it, and wait for the muscle to actually release, she says.

Shop it: Yoga Tune Up Therapy Balls, $19, amazon.com

The right posture can help. (Photo: Amazon)

Sometimes the source of back pain can be as simple as poor posture. But, when you sit and stand a certain way all the time, its hard to correct it. Thats why Wolf recommends investing in a posture shirt like this one from AlignMed. It helps move your shoulder blades and back into the right position so you can take extra stress off your spine.

This is about to be your new best friend. (Photo: Amazon)

You can find this strap at most physical therapy offices. The Stretch Out Strap has 10 individual loops, so you can easily find the right length for whatever body part youre trying to stretch. This a great tool to have handy if your lower back is the issue. You can use it to stretch out your hamstrings, which helps your pelvis and back muscles relax, Wolf says.

Strengthen your core with this ball. (Photo: Amazon)

There are a few things you can do with a good exercise ball like this one, and it largely involves core-strengthening exercises like planks and side planks, Wolf says. Theyre also good for getting to hard-to-stretch places, he adds.

Shop it: Black Mountain Stability Ball, $18, amazon.com

Switch up your sitting posture to help your back pain. (Photo: Amazon)

If you struggle with low back pain, it can be helpful at home to modify sitting, Wolf says. Using a balance ball chair makes it hard to slouch since you have to sit on your pelvis and keep an upright posture, he explains. This option from Gaiam has great reviewsand people rave about the comfort and durability.

This little weight can help strengthen your butt muscles and support your back. (Photo: Amazon)

Your butt muscles (aka glutes) tend to get weakened when you have lower back pain, which is why lateral leg raises and hip extensions with weights can help, Wolf says. The Cuff offers up a variety of weights that easily strap to your ankle to help push your strengthening game.

Shop it: The Cuff Ankle Weight, $11, amazon.com

A solid foam roller can help work out pains. (Photo: Amazon)

Foam rollers are great for working out hard-to-stretch spots, like your IT band (a long piece of connective tissue that runs from your hip to your knee), Wolf says. And, he points out, a tight IT band can indirectly contribute to back pain. To use it, simply put the foam roller on the ground, lay down on your side on top of it, and roll the area from your hip to your knee over it while applying some pressure into the roller.

Shop it: Amazon Basics High-Density Foam Roller, $10.50, amazon.com

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New Zealand has announced a five-stage reopening of its international borders, which have been closed to most foreign travelers since March 2020 because of COVID-19.

New Zealand's phased approach to reopening its international borders will begin on February 27.

Fully vaccinated citizens and other visa holders traveling from Australia will be allowed into New Zealand without spending two weeks in a state-managed isolation and quarantine facility known as MIQ. All arrivals must, however, self-isolate at home for 10 days.

Border rules for New Zealanders in other countries as well as international students and migrant workers will gradually be relaxed in the coming months.

New Zealand's borders have been closed for almost two years. Most foreign travelers have been banned, apart from a brief travel bubble with Australia last year.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Thursday stressed the importance of reconnecting families and friends, as well as boosting the economy.

She said the new border rules were part of a "journey back to a new normal."

"I know while many will celebrate today's reopening, others will feel anxious about the resumption of people across our border. But here are the safeguards. We will be as boosted as possible at the end of February. The phasing reduces the risk of a surge in cases, and travelers will be testing and isolating, with MIQ (managed isolation and quarantine) remaining for the unvaccinated. This means we will know quickly if a traveler has the virus, including any new variants," she said.

Business groups, however, have said the new rules will not help New Zealand's ailing tourism sector, which has been hit hard by pandemic border closures.

Some travel companies believe there is little appetite among international visitors to go to New Zealand if they have to isolate for 10 days. The government has said the quarantine regulations will be reviewed.

New Zealand  a South Pacific nation with a population of about 5 million  has imposed some of the world's toughest coronavirus border measures.

Prime Minister Ardern has acknowledged the heartbreak they have caused to families, but she has insisted they have saved lives.

New Zealand has recorded about 17,000 COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic. Fifty-three people have died, according to official data.

About 94% of the eligible population has received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Debate over Israel, including sometimes strong criticism of its policies, is not unusual at synagogues in the United States, especially those that follow the Reform movement. The Union of Reform Judaism, an umbrella group of Reform congregations, describes itself as a movement that accepts and supports the foundational aim of Zionism: the establishment of a Jewish state in Israel, the homeland of the Jewish people.

At Westchester Reform Temple, rabbis have criticized Israel in the past. In his Rosh Hashana sermon in September, Rabbi Jonathan Blake criticized extremists, cynical political officials and wealthy patrons in Israel for promoting a grandiose vision of Jewish totalitarianism in the biblical Holy Land.

But their critiques never challenge the existence of Israel as a Jewish state, as opposed to a state whose structure favors no ethnic or religious group.

In the blog post, published on May 20 during last years conflict between Israel and Hamas militants in Gaza, Ms. Sander and a co-author, Elana Lipkin, wrote that they embraced a position that rejects the Zionist claim to the land of Palestine.

The post continued, Zionism is not equivalent to, or a necessary component of, Jewish identity.

They also described Israeli actions against the Palestinians as genocide and accused Jewish institutions in the United States of spreading one-sided narratives and propaganda about the conflict.

Marc Stern, the chief legal officer of the American Jewish Committee, said Ms. Sanders lawsuit may have little chance of success because the U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that religious institutions have broad leeway in employment matters.




First lady Kim Jung-sook toured the pyramids in Cairo last month when President Moon Jae-in visited Egypt, the presidential office said Thursday.







Kim accompanied Moon on a weeklong trip through the Middle East that also took them to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.



During Moon's stay in Cairo on Jan. 19-21, Kim toured the pyramids at the request of the Egyptian side, Cheong Wa Dae said.







Kim's tour to the pyramids was not made public at the time because it was a non-disclosure schedule, a senior official at Cheong Wa Dae said.







If Kim rejected the Egyptian request to tour the pyramids, it would have been a "diplomatic discourtesy," the official said, adding that the pyramids are a "symbol of Egypt."







However, the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) criticized Kim for touring the pyramids.







Chang Young-il, deputy spokesperson at the PPP's election campaign committee, also slammed Moon for visiting the three nations last month at a time when a new wave of the omicron variant began to take hold. (Yonhap)


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How Boris Johnson's day of chaos played out 9am: David Davis tells Times Radio he intends to submit a formal letter of no confidence in Boris Johnson. 11am: Rishi Sunak announces the Government's plans to tackle the cost of living crisis by giving people an up front discount on energy bills worth 200 and a 150 council tax rebate. Noon: Rishi Sunak gives an interview to the BBC in which he repeatedly refuses to rule out running for the Tory leadership if Boris Johnson is forced to go as he says it is 'very kind' of some Tory MPs to view him as the frontrunner. Lunchtime: Boris Johnson seeks to 'clarify' his widely criticised and debunked claim that Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer failed to prosecute Jimmy Savile when he was director of public prosecutions (DPP). 3.30pm: Munira Mirza resigns as the head of the Number 10 policy unit over the Jimmy Savile smear. 5pm: Rishi Sunak directly criticises Boris Johnson over the Jimmy Savile attack, telling a Downing Street press conference: 'Being honest I wouldn't have said it and I'm glad that the Prime Minister clarified what he meant.' 6pm: It emerges that Jack Doyle is quitting as director of communications in Number 10. But he reportedly told friends he always planned to leave the role after two years. 7:45pm: Downing Street reveals Martin Reynolds and Dan Rosenfield have resigned. Advertisement

Downing Street was in meltdown tonight as Boris Johnson purged two of his most senior aides over Partygate and two more quit amid the fallout from his attack on Keir Starmer over Jimmy Savile.

Martin Reynolds, his principal private secretary, and Dan Rosenfield, his chief of staff, were forced out of No10 tonight in a day of high drama in Westminster.

Mr Johnson had earlier been rocked by the resignation of Munira Mirza, one of his longest-serving aides, and Jack Doyle, his director of communications.

And the Prime Minister appeared increasingly politically isolated after the Chancellor joined Mirza in condemning his 'inappropriate and partisan' attack on the Labour leader, linking him to a failure to prosecute notorious sex attacker Savile before his death in 2011.

Mr Reynolds was the man who sent out an email inviting more than 100 staff to a 'bring your own booze' party in the No10 gardens at the height of lockdown in 2020.

Mr Rosenfield had also faced criticism for a perceived lack of control and discipline over the No10 machine.

A formerly pro-Boris MP told The Spectator: 'The staff are always the last to leave! They're normally there in Downing Street crying as the PM finally quits, they're thinking about the resignation honours list. No government in my lifetime has ever imploded in this way.'

Another said 'it's not so much the rats leaving the sinking ship but the Petty Officer'.

A No10 spokesman said: 'Dan Rosenfield offered his resignation to the Prime Minister earlier today, which has been accepted.

'Martin Reynolds also informed the Prime Minister of his intention to stand down from his role as Principal Private Secretary and the Prime Minister has agreed to this.

'He has thanked them both for their significant contribution to government and No 10, including work on the pandemic response and economic recovery.

'They will continue in their roles while successors are appointed, and recruitment for both posts is underway.'

In a move that will fuel suggestions he wants to replace Mr Johnson, Rishi Sunak used a live televised press conference to criticise the Prime Minister for his desperate jibe about the CPS's failure to prosecute the notorious child sex beast when Sir Keir was its boss in 2009.

The Chancellor also penned an opinion piece for The Sun in which he bolstered his potential leadership credentials, saying: 'Weve always been the party of sound money, well always continue to be on my watch, and thats the only kind of party Im interested in.'

Under pressure at the despatch box over Sue Gray's Partygate report on Monday the PM claimed the Labour leader had 'used his time prosecuting journalists and failing to prosecute Jimmy Savile' while running the Crown Prosecution Service.

Mr Johnson partially climbed down from the remarks earlier today after days of insisting he was right to level the criticism - but stopped short of an apology.

However it was too little, too late to prevent one of his longest serving and most loyal aides resigning in disgust.

Policy chief Mirza, 44, who worked with the PM for 14 years, including when he was mayor of London, said she had urged him to fully apologise for using a 'scurrilous' trope that originated on far right websites but he had refused.

Minutes later Mr Sunak appeared live on television to put clean air between himself and his boss, saying: 'With regard to the comments, being honest I wouldn't have said it and I am glad the Prime Minister clarified what he meant.'

A source told ITV's Robert Peston tonight that the Chancellor's 'coup is underway. The firing squad is assembling'.

And a veteran Tory aide told MailOnline: 'Munira isn't so much a stab in the back as a big f***ing beheading.'

Later it was revealed Jack Doyle, the No10 director of communications, was also stepping down. He told staff: 'It was always my intention to do two years. Recent weeks have taken a terrible toll on my family life.'

It is the latest calamity to hit the Prime Minister, with rebellious backbenchers sick of the smell of scandal emanating from No10 over Partygate going public with letters of no confidence in his leadership.

His situation was further undermined when Mr Sunak repeatedly refused to rule out running for the Tory leadership if the PM is ousted.

Martin Reynolds (right, with Mr Johnson), his principle private secretary, and Dan Rosenfield (left), his chief of staff, were forced out of No10 tonight in a day of high drama in Westminster

Munira Mirza, the Downing Street head of policy, said the decision to attack the Labour leader over a failure to prosecute the notorious child sex beast when he ran the CPS was 'inappropriate and partisan'.

Later it was revealed Jack Doyle, the No10 director of communications, was also stepping down. He told friends he always planned to go after two years and his departure was not co-ordinated with Mirza.

Boris Johnson, pictured in Blackpool's Winter Gardens Conference Centre today, is facing a Downing Street exodus after four staff quit

Rishi Sunak used a live televised press conference tonight to criticise the Prime Minister for his desperate jibe at the Opposition leader about the CPS's failure to prosecute the notorious child sex beast when Sir Keir was its boss in 2009.

Mirza, 44, who has worked with the PM for 14 years, including when he was mayor of London, said she had urged him to fully apologise for using a trope that originated on far right websites but he had refused.

The Prime Minister (pictured today in Blackpool) targeted Sir Keir over his time as director of public prosecutions on Monday as he addressed MPs over Sue Gray's Partygate report.

Sir Keir was DPP more than a decade ago when the CPS decided not to prosecute Savile for child sex offences - although he was not directly involved in the decision.

After his death DJ and presenter Savile was revealed as one of the UK's most prolific child sex offenders, with crimes spanning decades.

The Bradford-raised brainbox who values integrity above all and was one of the last Boris 'true believers' in No10... but has close ties to Rishi Sunak Despite the bluff and bonhomie of his public persona, Boris Johnson has always been short of close friends at Westminster. And since he became PM many of his most trusted allies have fallen by the wayside. Munira Mirza was one of the last remaining 'true believers', having been by his side since London mayor days. The 44-year-old was regarded as someone in whom Mr Johnson would confide and felt comfortable bouncing ideas off. After the departure of Dominic Cummings and his subsequent campaign to oust the premier - spilling a slew of behind the scenes secrets in the process - that was a highly valued quality. In recent weeks there has been a rising expectation that Mr Johnson faces losing more close lieutenants over Partygate, with communications direction Jack Doyle and permanent secretary Martin Reynolds under huge pressure. But Ms Mirza's departure from the Downing Street policy unit over the Jimmy Savile jibe at Keir Starmer is a blindsiding blow, that will raise alarm among Mr Johnson's limited praetorian guard that he is passing the point of no return. And there will be mutterings about whether it part of a Rishi Sunak coup operation. Ms Mirza is married to Dougie Smith, a friend of Mr Sunak who is a strategist and opposition researcher in No10. And the journalist who broke the story was Spectator political editor James Forsyth, whose best man was Mr Sunak when he married Allegra Stratton - who dramatically quit over Partygate after being effectively cut adrift by the PM. A former member of the Revolutionary Communist Party, Ms Mirza was once named by the PM as one of the five women who have shaped his life. A long-time aide dating back to his time as London mayor, she preferred to work away from the limelight and has little public profile. She was appointed as Mr Johnson's cultural adviser when he entered City Hall on the recommendation of his chief of staff Nick Boles, the sometime Tory MP who co-founded Policy Exchange. Previously she had worked for the think-tank and been a speechwriter for David Cameron. Initially she is said to have made clear to Mr Johnson that she was not a Conservative Party member or 'tribal'. But the pair soon developed a strong working relationship that continued through Mr Johnson's wilderness years and into Downing Street. The Oldham-born academic was a popular figure around No10, with one source previously saying: .'She has a huge brain but wears it lightly. Boris listens to her.' It was his failure to listen to her that sparked today's resignation. Mirza's family came to Britain from Pakistan, with her father finding work as a factory while her mother taught Urdu part time. She attended Breeze High School and Oldham Sixth Form College, where she was the only pupil to gain a place at Oxford, where she studied English Literature. Despite her low public profile she has attracted the ire of the PM's political opponents. In a 2017 piece for the Sun, Ms Mirza said that anti-racism campaigners have a 'culture of grievance' and appeasing them was 'not making Britain a fairer place but harming the very people they aspire to help'. Before moving into Tory politics in 2003, her husband Mr Smith co-founded Fever Parties, an agency which organised sex parties for up to 50 couples at a time from London's 'fast set'. He was responsible for hosting orgies for the beautiful and wealthy in Mayfair townhouses. Mr Smith has insisted his different work ventures did not 'overlap'. In June last year Ms Mirza was asked to set up a new race inequality commission. Supporters said at the time she is an advocate of data-driven policies, but campaigners and Labour MPs argued she is a denier of institutional racism and should not be playing a key role in the response to the BLM protests. She appeared on BBC Radio 4's Great Lives series in 2009, with 20th-century German political theorist Hannah Arendt as her subject. She told the programme: 'She was a very brave woman, brave in what she said and did. 'She always did what she thought was the right thing rather than what was popular, what was safe She always had integrity.' Advertisement

The PM went into reverse this morning over the jibe after his own MPs branded him a 'pound shop Trump'.

Sir Keir was Director of Public Prosecutions more than a decade ago when the CPS decided not to prosecute Savile. After his death in 2011 the DJ and presenter was revealed as one of the UK's most prolific child sex offenders, with crimes spanning decades.

But in the latest humiliating backtrack by the Prime Minister he admitted this morning Sir Keir 'had nothing to do personally' with the decision.

However, Mr Johnson performed a bizarre U-turn this evening, defended his comments as he told 5 News: 'I'm sorry to lose Munira, she's done an outstanding job and has been a wonderful colleague for a long time. And she's been instrumental in delivering all sorts of fantastic policies in London and now in the Government of the UK.'

Told of her criticism of his comments he added: 'Well I don't agree with that.'

Tonight Mr Sunak's deputy Simon Clarke also defended the PM. The Chief Secretary to the Treasury told Channel 4 News: 'I have highest regard for the Chancellor, I work very closely with him on a whole range of policies. But is my view that it was a perfectly reasonable remark for the Prime Minister to have made.'

In a letter revealed by the Spectator this afternoon, Ms Mirza said: 'I believe it was wrong for you to imply this week that Keir Starmer was personally responsible for allowing Jimmy Savile to escape justice. There was no fair or reasonable basis for that assertion.

'This was not the usual cut and thrust of politics; it was an inappropriate and partisan reference to a horrendous case of child sex abuse.

'You tried to clarify your position today but, despite my urging, you did not apologise for the misleading impression you gave.'

No10 replaced her this afternoon as head of the policy unit with MP Andrew Griffiths, the PM's parliamentary private secretary. A spokeswoman said: 'We are very sorry Munira has left No10 and are grateful for her service and contribution to government.'

It has been suggested that he had been warned beforehand by aides not to use the line but did so anyway. And he has since refused to apologise, with ministers supporting him as recently as this morning by saying it was fair criticism.

But in a BBC interview in Blackpool this lunchtime, Mr Johnson finally admitted his remarks meant 'a lot of people have got very hot under the collar'.

'Let's be absolutely clear, I'm talking not about the Leader of the Opposition's personal record when he was DPP and I totally understand that he had nothing to do personally with those decisions,' he said.

'I was making a point about his responsibility for the organisation as a whole. I really do want to clarify that because it is important.'

Former No10 aide Dominic Cummings, now an arch critic of the PM, tweeted: 'Moral courage from Munira who has done her best to make progress with a professional team throughout the horror since 11/20.

'It's also an unmistakable signal the bunker is collapsing & *this PM is finished*.'

He predicted a 'mad scramble' away from the Prime Minister, adding: 'Pretty soon there will be a mad scramble & ministers will be kicking themselves hitting their heads saying ''WHY didnt i move faster arghhh''.

'Now's your moment, find a flicker of moral courage & ''push what is falling''.'

It is the latest volte face by the PM in recent days. Last week he tried to suggest he would not publish parts of the Sue Gray report that were held back due to a police probe into the PM and his staff. He later relented and said they would be made available.

And earlier this week he was forced to confirm that if he was fined by cops over breaches of lockdown laws, he would publicly announce it, having earlier suggested he would keep it a secret.

The Chancellor said this afternoon being the next prime minister is 'not what I'm focused on' as he labelled talk of a contest a 'hypothetical situation'.

However, in comments which will fuel speculation that Mr Sunak does have leadership ambitions, he said it is 'very kind' of some Tory MPs to tip him as the frontrunner.

Mr Johnson's decision to double down at Prime Ministers Questions yesterday has reportedly alarmed many of his MPs. Some have now likened him to the fake news-spouting former US president, the Times reported.

They find themselves in the unusual position of agreeing with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who yesterday branded the PM 'Trumpian'.

Mirza is the youngest daughter of Pakistani immigrants, her father a factory worker and her mother a housewife and Urdu teacher.

She grew up in Oldham and attended state schools before becoming the only student at her sixth form to win a place at Oxford.

It was during her study at Mansfield College that she joined the Revolutionary Communist Party (RCP), contributing to its magazine Living Marxism.

She went on to study for a PhD in sociology at the University of Kent under Professor Frank Furedi, who co-founded the RCP, which had then dissolved.

She had various jobs in the culture and charity sectors, including at the Royal Society of Arts, the Policy Exchange think tank, and the Tate, before being made arts adviser to Mr Johnson, aged 30, when he was elected as Mayor of London in 2008.

Johnson's situation was further undermined when Mr Sunak repeatedly refused to rule out running for the Tory leadership if the PM is ousted (pictured in Bolton today)

Mr Johnson's decision to double down at Prime Ministers Questions yesterday has reportedly alarmed many of his MPs (pictured at Horwich Police Station in Bolton today)

During Mr Johnson's time at City Hall, she was promoted, in 2012, to the deputy mayor for education and culture, and was described by his former head of communications at City Hall Guto Harri as 'the perfect counter to those critics who suspected the worse of Boris'.

Ms Mirza is reported to have been a supporter of Brexit far before Mr Johnson, and once joined a protest against a ban on drinking on the London Underground which involved riding around the Circle Line while day drinking, in an objection to the state dictating such a move.

In 2018, when the Prime Minister's comments about women in burkas hit the headlines, Ms Mirza - a Muslim - launched a passionate defence of him in the media.

Ms Mirza reportedly helped write the manifesto that got Mr Johnson to No 10. Once he became Prime Minister, she was brought in immediately as one of his inner circle.

Former minister Steve Brine said Mirza's resignation was 'so predictable and a loss to Government'.

The Winchester MP said: 'As [I] said to the Prime Minister last night, when we met to talk about current events, this was flash-man and totally unnecessary. The PM has got to stop picking fights.'

Asked about Munira Mirza's decision to quit, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party Angela Rayner said: 'Well it really shows that even people that have been close to Boris Johnson for a very long time have seen he is not fit to be Prime Minister and there isn't a depth he wouldn't sink to, to make cheap points.

Rishi Sunak repeatedly fails to rule out a Tory leadership bid Rishi Sunak today repeatedly refused to rule out running for the Tory leadership if Boris Johnson is ousted over the Partygate scandal as he insisted the PM always tells him the truth. The Chancellor said being the next prime minister is 'not what I'm focused on' as he labelled talk of a contest a 'hypothetical situation'. However, in comments which will fuel speculation that Mr Sunak does have leadership ambitions, he said it is 'very kind' of some Tory MPs to tip him as the frontrunner. Mr Sunak said the PM 'has my full support' as he admitted the Partygate row has damaged public confidence in the Government. The Chancellor was asked if he believed the PM always told him the truth and he replied: 'Yes of course he does. He's the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.' Mr Sunak was asked during an interview with the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg if he would run to replace Mr Johnson should the PM be forced out. The Chancellor replied: 'No that's that's not what I'm focused on...' Pushed again on if he would run and told that some of his Tory colleagues want him to, Mr Sunak said: 'Well, that's very kind of them, to suggest that. 'But what I think people want from me and what your viewers will want from me is to focus on my job.' Ms Kuenssberg said the question of the next Tory leader is 'no longer a hypothetical situation' because MPs are publicly pushing for a vote of no confidence in Mr Johnson. Advertisement

'He's lied to the public in a very dangerous way. One of the most significant things about that is the victims (of Savile) here.

'No regard whatsoever for those victims and the trauma they've gone through and I think it's really telling now that so many people are abandoning Boris Johnson who have been around him for a very long time; (they) have decided 'you know what, even we cannot accept this sort of behaviour'.'

Mr Johnson had been defended before his U-turn by Foreign Office minister James Cleverly today, as he told the BBC the comment was a legitimate criticism rather than a smear.

He claimed that Sir Keir's refusal to take responsibility for what happened on his watch was in contrast to the PM's actions over Partygate.

The MP for Braintree told Radio 4's Today programme: 'The point is, if the criticism that Keir Starmer is laying on the Prime Minister is about taking responsibility for the actions of an organisation he leads, I think raising the point that Keir Starmer himself has experience is a criticism.'

Sir Keir laid into the PM today, saying Mr Johnson's tactic was to 'drag everyone into the gutter with him'.

Sir Keir had said in a review in 2013 that Savile could have been charged for his crimes in 2009, two years before his death, had police taken victims more seriously, and he apologised for 'the shortcomings in the part played by the Crown Prosecution Service in these cases'.

In 2020, fact-checking charity Full Fact found the Labour leader was the head of the Crown Prosecution Service in 2009 when a decision was made not to bring charges against Savile, who was later revealed to be a rampant paedophile and is believed to be one of Britain's most prolific sex offenders.

Full Fact said: 'The allegations against Savile were dealt with by local police and a reviewing lawyer for the CPS.

'A later investigation criticised the actions of both the CPS and the police in their handling of the situation.

'It did not suggest that Mr Starmer was personally involved in the decisions made.'

A flurry of Tory MPs have called on their party leader to withdraw his allegations. And victims of Jimmy Savile have argued the same.

Tory MP Julian Smith, the party's former chief whip, turned on his party leader and tweeted: 'The smear made against Keir Starmer relating to Jimmy Savile yesterday is wrong & cannot be defended. It should be withdrawn. False and baseless personal slurs are dangerous, corrode trust & can't just be accepted as part of the cut & thrust of parliamentary debate'.

On Wednesday, Scottish First Minister Ms Sturgeon condemned the comments from Mr Johnson.

Munira Mirza's resignation letter Dear Prime Minister, It is with great regret that I am writing to resign as your Head of Policy. You are aware of the reason for my decision: I believe it was wrong for you to imply this week that Keir Starmer was personally responsible for allowing Jimmy Savile to escape justice. There was no fair or reasonable basis for that assertion. This was not the normal cut-and-thrust of politics; it was an inappropriate and partisan reference to a horrendous case of child sex abuse. You tried to clarify your position today but, despite my urging, you did not apologise for the misleading impression you gave. I have served you for 14 years and it has been a privilege to do so. You have achieved many important things both as Prime Minister and, before that, as Mayor of London. You are a man of extraordinary abilities with a unique talent for connecting with people. You are a better man than many of your detractors will ever understand which is why it is desperately sad that you let yourself down by making a scurrilous accusation against the Leader of the Opposition. Even now, I hope you find it in yourself to apologise for a grave error of judgement made under huge pressure. I appreciate that our political culture is not forgiving when people say sorry, but regardless, it is the right thing to do. It is not too late for you but, I'm sorry to say, it is too late for me. Yours sincerely, Munira Advertisement

And today Simon Hoare, MP for North Dorset and Chairman of the Northern Ireland Select Committee, said: 'The Jimmy Saville false allegation should be withdrawn'.

Mr Johnson was rebuked by the Commons Speaker yesterday over his discredited claim that Sir Keir Starmer failed to prosecute Jimmy Savile.

The Prime Minister faced calls from a Tory former chief whip to withdraw the 'baseless personal slur', while Sir Keir said it was Mr Johnson who was 'debasing himself by going so low'.

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said he was 'far from satisfied that the comments in question were appropriate'.

On Wednesday, Scottish First Minister Ms Sturgeon condemned the comments from Mr Johnson.

She added: 'I'm of a different political party to Keir Starmer, but the Jimmy Savile comments about Keir Starmer were utterly despicable.

'(It is) appalling that the holder of the office of Prime Minister is behaving in that fake news, Trumpian manner.

'This is about the integrity of our democracy.

'We've all got to ask ourselves... as citizens, are we content to have someone with no integrity and no shame occupying Number 10, and I think the answer to that question for the vast majority of people across the UK is no.

'But the people who can make the decision about whether Boris Johnson stays there or not are Tory MPs and the longer they allow him to stay there, the longer he will become tarnished and tainted and complicit in his conduct.'

At Prime Minister's Questions (pictured), the Labour leader accused Mr Johnson of 'parroting the conspiracy theories of violent fascists to try to score cheap political points'. But in response, the Prime Minister defended his comments made in heated Commons exchanges on Monday following the publication of the Sue Gray report on lockdown parties in Downing Street. 'I don't want to make heavy weather of this but I am informed that in 2013 he apologised and took full responsibility for what had happened on his watch. That was the right thing to do,' he said. Ahead of his appearance at the dispatch box, Mr Johnson faced growing calls from senior Conservatives to withdraw the widely criticised claim. In comments directed to Tory benches, Sir Keir said: 'Theirs is the party of Winston Churchill. Our parties stood together as we defeated fascism in Europe. 'Now their leader stands in the House of Commons parroting the conspiracy theories of violent fascists to try to score cheap political points. He knows exactly what he is doing. It is time to restore some dignity.'

What is the TRUTH behind PM's Jimmy Savile 'smear' on Keir Starmer? The facts and fiction after Boris Johnson accused the Labour leader of failing to prosecute notorious paedophile when he was DPP

A fresh faced Keir Starmer when he was appointed DPP in 2008. An inquiry would later clear him of any involvement in the failure to prosecute Jimmy Savile

Boris Johnson has accused former director of public prosecutions Sir Keir Starmer of having 'used his time prosecuting journalists and failing to prosecute Jimmy Savile' - and doubled down in the Commons today.

But the Labour leader has said Mr Johnson is 'debasing himself by going so low' by repeating 'a ridiculous slur peddled by right wing trolls'.

And today he used PMQs to accuse Mr Johnson of 'parroting the conspiracy theories of violent fascists to try to score cheap political points'. The PM then refused to withdraw his comments, despite calls from his own MPs to do so.

In 2012 a QC-led inquiry exonerated Sir Keir, finding he was not involved in the decision not to put Savile in the dock two years before he died, blaming it on hapless starstruck police officers and an incurious local prosecutor.

During Sir Keir's tenure as director of public prosecutions from 2008 to 2013, detectives had sought advice from the CPS on four allegations that Savile had sexually assaulted girls and young women in the 1970s.

In October 2009, the CPS reviewing lawyer with responsibility for the cases advised that since none of the complainants was 'prepared to support any police action', no prosecutions could be brought.

Savile, who abused 500 women and children, died in 2011 without facing justice.

In 2012, after it became clear the Top of the Pops host had attacked and abused hundreds of children and women in hospitals, schools and while filming his BBC shows, an inquiry was carried out Alison Levitt QC, on Mr Starmer's own orders.

In 2013 her report found that the decision was made by police and prosecutors locally, not Sir Keir, who was unaware of it. The CPS would also say there was 'no reference to any involvement from the DPP in the decision-making within a report examining the case.'

Boris Johnson was under fire in the Commons about Partygate when he accused Sir Keir Starmer of letting Jimmy Savile avoid justice. Mr Starmer looked furious as he heard the PM say it (right), claiming Tory MPs were similarly angry

Alison Levitt QC found that police treated the victims and the accounts they gave 'with a degree of caution which was neither justified nor required'.

Savile also made veiled threats against officers if sexual abuse allegations against him did not 'disappear'.

Detectives looking at allegations advised the CPS not to prosecute Savile, believing his explanation that it was all made up and the price of being famous.

Ms Levitt was also critical of the approach taken by the CPS' reviewing lawyer, but did not suggest that Mr Starmer was personally involved in the decisions made.

The lawyer was also criticised for failing to properly build a case with the police or spot inconsistencies in their reports after interviewing Savile under caution and four of his victims.

As head of the CPS, Sir Keir later apologised, admitting the failure to prosecute Savile was a 'watershed moment' for the organisation. But avoided any admonishment in Ms Levitt's report.

He said: 'I would like to take the opportunity to apologise for the shortcomings in the part played by the CPS in these cases.

'These were errors of judgement by experienced and committed police officers and a prosecuting lawyer acting in good faith and attempting to apply the correct principles. That makes the findings of Ms Levitt's report more profound and calls for a more robust response.'

Lawyer turned Labour leader Sir Keir then left in 2013 to pursue a career in politics.

Sir Keir (pictured today) had no involvement in the decision not to prosecute Sir Jimmy Savile, and said the Prime Minister was using language by right wing trolls and conspiracy theorists

Tory MP and former chief whip Julian Smith has also put the boot in to his boss, urging him to go back to the Commons to withdraw it
By Azernews

By Sabina Mammadli

Azerbaijani women's role in post-war rehabilitation has been discussed at an international conference in the capital Baku, ombudsman.az has reported.

The country places a high value on eradicating existing gender stereotypes and strengthening women's positions in public life, Human Rights Commissioner Sabina Aliyeva's representative said at the "Women, Peace and Security: The Role of Women in Post-Conflict Reconstruction" conference held in Baku.

The event was organized by the International Relations Analysis Center (UNIA) and the UN Office in Azerbaijan.

Speaking at the conference, the employee of the ombudsman's office stated that one of Human Rights Commissioner Sabina Aliyeva's primary responsibilities is to protect women's rights.

The event was attended by the chair of the UN Board of Directors, Farid Shafiyev; the assistant to Azerbaijan's First Vice President, ambassador Elchin Amirbayov, representatives of the UN, the State and Parliamentary Committees on Family, Women, and Children, and the information sector head of the ombudsman's office, Aynur Hamidova.

Azerbaijan collaborates and implements various programs with various international institutions, particularly the UNDP to ensure women's rights.

The protection of women's rights, as well as the expansion of all opportunities created for them, are among the priorities set by Azerbaijan's president in state policy.

In Azerbaijan, there are currently nine Women Resource Centers that promote gender equality and strengthen women's entrepreneurial skills, assisting them in overcoming socio-economic challenges.

In addition, Azerbaijan ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women in 1995 and signed its optional protocol in 2000. The convention defines "discrimination against women" and assigns responsibility to state organizations for taking appropriate measures to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women.

The State Committee on Women's Affairs was established in January 1998 and was replaced in February 2006 by the State Committee on Family, Women, and Children Affairs. The committee is in charge of carrying out state policy on family, women, and children's issues.
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI/PNN): In business, experience and inspiration are two main pillars that lead to wisdom and success. For decades now, India has been home to some of the brilliant minds and influential leaders who have played a vital role in changing the economic and business landscape in the country. The Indian Alert, a growing digital media platform for news and marketing in association with Digisharks Communications honors the Top 10 CEOs of the year, who define business not through their suits or stocks but through their vision, failures, and courage. 1. Dr. Sukanta Kumar Jena - CEO of Inovaantage : Dr. Sukanta Kumar Jena, CEO of Inovaantage , who is passionate about delivering unmatched values to the customers in the form of tailor made, tech powered, and pioneering solutions, Inovaantage specializes in verticals including electricity, telecom, transportation, and logistics. Dr. Sukanta is a forward-looking visionary leader who is always prepared to deal with any crisis. Even a global crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, which has dampened the spirits of many industrial bigwigs, could not stop him from achieving his goal of global business expansion. Dr. Sukanta believes in leading by example and promotes an action-oriented leadership culture. He is motivated by a strong sense of urgency, concentrating on the task at hand and ensuring its timely completion. 2. Dr. Sridhar Peddireddy - CEO of Renova Hospitals : Dr. Sridhar Peddireddy, a full-time Healthcare Administrator with a Master's Degree in Hospital Management and a Doctorate in Healthcare, has built brands like IACI&RC and Omega Hospitals to tremendous heights over the course of his 22-year career. Dr. Sridhar has become an entrepreneur, establishing two companies: Renova Hospitals and Ziva Fertility Center. Besides that, Dr. Sridhar is a philanthropist who founded the Sri Dharani Foundation, an NGO that helps poor people in the fields of health, education, and the environment. 3. Dr. Karan Goel - CEO of KevaKaipo Industries : A multi-faceted personality, Dr. Karan Goel, CEO of KevaKaipo Industries is a connoisseur who has been conferred with numerous accolades and recognitions. With no exposure and without any family background, Dr. Goel started his maiden business venture from a small office with just 5 products in hand and operating with a team force of just 10. Having faced acute losses at the initial step, this rising star knew no boundaries and the dominant position of Kevakaipo Industries at present is a clear picture of the hardships that this iron man faced and built up a massive empire. Today KevaKaipo Industries is positioned as one of the most trusted brand name & a conglomerate in the Healthcare & FMCG sector in India with a product range of more than 600 in different segments catering to the needs of all age groups. Not only this, but the company is eyeing to expand the range with 1000 additions along with a diversified plan. 4. Rania Lampou - CEO of Greek Astronomy and Space Company (Annex Salamis) : Rania Lampou is the CEO of the Greek Astronomy and Space Company (Annex Salamis). She is also aGlobal Educator, STEM instructor, ICT teacher trainer, neuroeducation researcher, international keynote speaker, author of scientific books for kids and global peace ambassador in Greece. Furthermore, she is the founder and international coordinator of many innovative STEM international projects that focus on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals described in the 2030 Agenda and she has been awarded many international prizes (over 130) for her projects. 5. Abhishek Gupta - CEO of Altos Enterprises Ltd : An adept personality, who has a long-term vision for the Indian Direct Selling Industry, Abhishek Gupta is clearly the next youthful business leader of our generation. During Covid-19 Pandemic, he demonstrates inspirational leadership towards the Direct Sellers & encourages them participate in community programmes. Under his dynamic leadership, Altos Enterprises has been remodelled, and business processes have been modernised to meet the demands of the country's fast changing consumer demographic profile. With great ambitions to make India a prosperous nation, Mr. Abhishek Gupta has set a goal of making India, one of the top five direct selling markets in the world. 6. Dr. Huz - CEO of Wockhardt Foundation : Dr. Huz (Huzaifa Khorakiwala) is the CEO of Wockhardt Foundation that works across health, education and sanitation programmes making a difference in the lives of millions of people. He is also the Executive Director of Wockhardt Limited and is part of the promoter family of the Wockhardt Group which is a leading pharmaceutical and healthcare group in India. He has been recognised as a great humanitarian, who has received several prestigious awards and 13 Honorary Doctorates in his career spanning more than 25 years. 7. Sanjay Mandavia - CEO of FLY Big India Pvt. Ltd : Sanjay Mandavia, a risk-taking business leader with over two decades of experience as a pilot and entrepreneur, is always one step ahead of his peers in spotting business possibilities that can add incremental value to society. His participation in a bid to buy Jet Airways demonstrated his leadership commitment in reviving one of the world's most valued airlines. With the launch of FlyBig in January 2021, it is apparent that he has great aspirations for the Indian aviation industry, and the country clearly needs experts and luminaries like him who can create innovative business models that benefit the entire economy. 8. Sumeet Soni Founder - CEO of Zapbuild : Sumeet Soni leads one of the most prolific and esteemed IT conglomerates in India, having its base in the US and Singapore as well. As the CEO of Zapbuild and the originator of practically countless innovations, Soni has been spearheading his team to success in numerous product development projects, mobile and web applications, business development initiatives, strategic planning, digital marketing, and much more. The lessons learned in his early professional life when he served in many key leadership positions has shaped his visionary and compassionate persona. Coming from a humble family, Sumeet holds his head high building a digital transformation conglomerate as a bootstrap venture. His mighty aspirations include global brand equity for Zapbuild, which already has multiple global clients. His team basks in the glory of his inspiring and joyful leadership. 9. Dr. Shweta Singh Founder - CEO of Ennoble IP & SheReal : Dr. Shweta Singh, is a first-generation serial entrepreneur and a true epitome of diligence and poised lady. She is a rich amalgamation and affluence of technology, management and law. Without any business background and over the top challenging society she made it to herself by now. She has her hands-on field of Intellectual Property Rights, Business Ecosystem. While enlarging her parent company Ennoble IP, she has also established her NPO Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Foundation (WIEF) which dedicatedly working upon women-led start-ups and small businesses. She has also been blessed by our honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji for her continuous work towards women's empowerment and upliftment. She is also creating a Blockchain platform SheReal for women and has also established her research firm Council of Industrial Innovation and Research (CIIR). In her promising career, she has been honored with many prestigious awards such as Felicitated by Ministry of Finance in India for excellence in women entrepreneurship, Recipient of Times 40 under 40 and many more. 10. Mayur Nandan - CEO of Ellora Constructions: Mayur Nandan is professional in infrastructure industry, who found his passion in the field at a very young age. Inspired by his father, he pursued his studies in Civil engineering and started his own venture Ellora Constructions in 2016. Gradually he expanded his vision and founded Ellora Agro, Ellora Automotive, ELR Enterprises, and Ellora Foundation under the group. Awarded as the "Most Trusted Construction company in Maharashtra" in 2021, Ellora Constructions has been delivering quality projects and established itself as a well-known stalwart in the infrastructure industry. SOURCE LINK : THE INDIAN ALERT This story is provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PNN)
New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday (February 3) announced that the Indian envoy will not attend the opening or closing ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics.

The decision comes after China made Galwan soldier torchbearer at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Torch Relay. MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, it is "regrettable that China has chosen to politicise the Olympics. The Indian envoy will not attend the opening or closing ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics."

China`s People`s Liberation Army`s regimental commander, who had suffered severe injuries during the Galwan clash, became the torchbearer at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Torch Relay on Wednesday (February 2).

Qi Fabao, the regimental commander who suffered a serious head injury during the Galwan Valley border skirmish on June 15, 2020, took the flame from China`s four-time Olympic short track speed skating champion, at Winter Olympic Park, State media outlet Global Times reported on Wednesday.

This came as a report revealed that China is hiding its losses in the Galwan Valley clash with India. The new research has shown that the PLA lost at least nine times more soldiers than its official count of four.

(With ANI inputs)

Live TV
Months after being isolated following the fatal shooting incident on the 'Rust' film set, actor Alec Baldwin will make a rare public appearance at the Boulder International Film Festival in March. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed that the 63-year-old actor has agreed to attend the up-and-coming fest's 18th edition, which will run from March 3-6, as its first-ever "special guest programmer." The fest will reportedly screen three films: Stanley Kubrick's 'Dr. Strangelove' (1964); Judith Ehrlich and Rick Goldsmith's 'The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers' (2009); and Julie Cohen and Betsy West's 'Julia' (2021), which is in contention for the best documentary feature Oscar. As per the outlet, Baldwin says these films have significantly influenced and impacted him. Baldwin will participate in a brief question and answers session after each screening with film critic and culture writer Lisa Kennedy to discuss why he chose those films. The 'It's Complicated' actor will also be interviewed by Ron Bostwick, a veteran journalist and the festival's longtime special events producer, on March 5 in front of an audience at the Boulder Theater. "I am quite excited about returning to the Boulder International Film Festival, which I last attended in 2010. I think Boulder is a great town and I know they have a wonderful festival," Baldwin said in a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter. Kathy Beeck, the festival's director, said, "This is our first year having a Special Guest Programmer, and it's wonderful to be able to feature Alec Baldwin, who is a friend of the festival and is very knowledgeable about film. In addition to being an actor and writer, he has a podcast called Here's The Thing with Alec Baldwin and served as a host of The Essentials on Turner Classic Movies, a series presenting some of the most essential films ever made to TCM viewers. We're honoured that this year Alec will be taking on this important role and sharing some of his favourite films with BIFF." Baldwin also attended the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Award Gala on December 9 as master of ceremonies, since the 'Rust' tragedy. (ANI)
The Guam Police Department recorded 18 cases of official misconduct  instances of government officials abusing their positions to break the law  over the past three years.

Speaker Therese Terlaje shared the numbers during a hearing Thursday for Bill 147, which would levy fines of up to $50,000 against anyone found guilty of public corruption or trying to illegally influence a public official.

According to GPD data, there were seven cases of official misconduct in 2019, eight in 2020 and three in 2021. There was one case in the last three years of giving of gratuities, meaning an exchange for favors, and one for unlawful influence.

The numbers are only for complaints and arrests, not prosecutions. Terlaje said prosecution data for official misconduct charges was requested from the Office of the Attorney General but wasnt received as of Thursday.

Think twice

Sen. James Moylan, who sponsored Bill 147, said the aim was to make those who would engage in public corruption think twice before breaking the law.

If were circumventing policies or were engaging in illicit behavior for personal gain, thats what we need to deter, he said.

The measure would also upgrade official misconduct and several other offenses, such as tampering with bids on government contracts, from misdemeanors to third-degree felonies.

Public Auditor Benjamin Cruz provided written testimony in support of the measure, stating it would add teeth to the penalties that lawbreaking officials were slapped with. Some officials fail to comply with the law, Cruz wrote, but face no real penalties for doing so.

Reactions

Chief Prosecutor J. Basil OMallan said the AGs office was in support of the measure.

However, not all official misconduct is the same, as with any crime, OMallan said. Theres a spectrum of unlawful conduct that could range from stealing $5 from a register to more serious offenses.

The bill would make every instance of official misconduct a felony, he said, when some should remain misdemeanors.

Criminal charges arent the only consequences for government employees who break the law. They could face adverse action from administrators.

Linsangan

Small business owner Sedfrey Linsangan said he had experience with government contracts and agreed with the intent of the bill. But he said it would still be difficult for contractors in cases they believed bid tampering had occurred.

The problem is this: Who will implement or who will subsidize the adjudication? Thats the problem. Because it takes money to adjudicate, to hire a lawyer, he said. The lawyers of every agency, they value the agency over the law.

Lawyers from the AGs office, who would be responsible for prosecuting official misconduct cases, are also responsible for representing GovGuam agencies, Linsangan said.
The 2020 presidential election, and the intense debate that has continued for more than year after its conclusion, have invariably led to new proposals to affect future national elections.

While it any federal voting rights legislation is unlikely to pass, in recent weeks several elected officials, including the second-ranking Republican U.S. senator, John Thune of South Dakota, and the House majority whip, Democrat Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, have expressed interest in reforming the Electoral Count Act. This would clarify the role the vice president  in their role as president of the Senate  plays when certifying the vote of the Electoral College.

These debates are renewing discussion and momentum for moving to a national popular vote, if not by the 2024 presidential election, then by 2028.

How would it work?

States are passing legislation or initiatives awarding their electors to the winner of the national popular vote. Once the number of states in the compact reaches 270 electoral votes, presidential elections will transition from the current method  48 states use what is called the winner-take-all method of awarding electors while Maine and Nebraska award electors by congressional district  to a national popular vote.

How close is this to becoming a reality? Closer than you probably think.

The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact has been adopted by 16 states, including the District of Columbia, totaling 195 electoral votes. Most recently, Colorado joined the compact and an initiative petition was launched in Michigan. The compact is a binding, actionable and realistic reform that utilizes the constitutional power of state legislators to select a method for awarding electors without abolishing the Electoral College.

The pathway from 195 to 270 is not impossible to see. The compact has passed in at least one house of state legislatures in eight additional states, accounting for more than 70 electoral votes. It is only a matter of time before those states also join the compact.

Notably, the compact does not take effect until it reaches the threshold of 270 electoral votes.

Several questions are raised about this proposal. Lets examine them.

You may believe this would benefit cities. But the data shows otherwise.

Only one-sixth of the country lives in the top 100 cities. One-fifth live in rural areas. California and New York together only have 18 percent of all voters. According to national data, the five biggest cities in the country account for only about 6 percent of the national population. The top 20 cities account for only about 10 percent of the population. Even the top 50 cities only account for 15 percent of the nations population.

You may think it would lead to TV ad campaigns focused almost exclusively on the largest TV markets. But big cities could never dominate under a national popular vote, unless you reject basic math.

You may think the Constitution prevents such a plan, but it does not. In fact, the winner-take-all method presently used by 48 states to award their electors is not prescribed by the Constitution. Likewise, the congressional district method also doesnt appear anywhere in the text.

This compact still respects the constitutional role of the states in selecting the president, but it does so through a popular mandate. Its the best of both worlds.

It would also force a Democratic nominee to campaign in red states and a Republican nominee to campaign in blue states. That would benefit voters.

You may think that a national popular vote would advantage Democrats. But I can find no hard evidence that this is the case. Consider since 1988, 38 states have voted the same way in presidential elections, giving Democrats an automatic 242-102 electoral vote advantage and placing them a mere 28 electoral votes from clinching the presidency even before the first votes are cast.

Instead of six to eight battleground states, where candidates spend all their time after winning their nominating contests, candidates could instead develop unique and tailored strategies for a candidates time, allocation of resources, and messaging strategies. Why should a voter in Missouri or Utah be less relevant than a voter in Michigan or Florida?

Under the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, every vote would have equal value, and neither party would have an automatic electoral advantage. America would finally elect a president of the United States chosen by all Americans.

Matt Mackowiak is the president of Potomac Strategy Group, a Republican consultant, a Bush administration and Bush-Cheney re-election campaign veteran and former press secretary to two U.S. senators. His national politics podcast, Mack on Politics, may be found on iTunes, Google Play, and Stitcher.
Sid Owen has shared some sweet updates on his newborn daughter Skye after his partner Victoria Shores gave birth earlier this month.

It comes after the EastEnders star, 50, told how his partner lost two litres of blood and nearly died while giving birth to their first child together.

Following his partner's recovery, Sid shares some adorable snaps of smiling Skye as she slept in an a plush baby pod with a cute pink and white knitted blanket.

'My love': Sid Owen has shared some sweet updates on his newborn daughter Skye after his partner Victoria Shores gave birth earlier this month

Sid captioned the heartwarming photo: 'Skye. My love'.

He later shared a close up snap of Skye, and wrote: 'Night from Skye.'

Last week, Sid revealed that his waitress partner, 42, needed a transfusion before enduring an emergency C-section four weeks early - following a placenta previa diagnosis, where a low-lying placenta covers the cervix.

'I'm still processing the trauma': It comes after the EastEnders star, 50, told how his partner lost two litres of blood and nearly died while giving birth to their first child together

Aw! He later shared a close up snap of Skye, and wrote: 'Night from Skye'

He told The Sun: 'I couldn't cope with losing Vic, I was more concerned about her. I'm still trying to process the trauma of it. It was the toughest moment I have ever experienced.'

'I did say to doctors at one point, "All that matters is Vic, make sure she's OK and survives." I was imagining horror stories.'

The soap star admitted he was consumed by flashbacks of traumatic stillbirth scenes which he filmed for EastEnders in 1997 as he begged doctors to save both their lives.

Sid was wearing scrubs for the first time since his character Ricky's girlfriend Bianca, played by Patsy Palmer, gave birth to a deceased baby diagnosed with spina bifida on the BBC soap.

He said: 'It was surreal as I'd only experienced moments like this on camera when it was the worst case scenario. All that s**t was going through my head. '

Shocking! Victoria needed a transfusion before enduring an emergency C-section four weeks early following a placenta previa diagnosis

It was only last Friday when Victoria woke up in blood-soaked sheets alongside Sid, having suffered a miscarriage only a year prior.

Immediately calling the NHS for an ambulance, they were whisked off to Epsom And St Helier Hospital in Surrey where they nine members of staff greeted them.

After discovering her placenta could erupt any second, causing the immediate death of their unborn child, the pair were filled with anxiety and upset.

If Victoria had stayed at home that day, it's likely she would have haemorrhaged and died, she admitted, adding the hospital staff feared Skye wouldn't be able to breathe if they took her out too soon.

She was regularly monitored by medics for 24 hours as the bleeding continued, before enduring painful Braxton Hicks contractions, which mimic labour pains.

Emotional: He said: 'I couldn't cope with losing Vic, I was more concerned about her. I'm still trying to process the trauma of it. It was the toughest moment I have ever experienced'

The couple's fears went from bad to worse when they were warned that Victoria could lose her womb - which would have been devastating since they had planned to have more children.

On Sunday, steroid injections were delivered to help Skye breathe before an emergency C-section took place.

When the 5lbs 5oz was successfully delivered, Victoria began to lose blood, causing doctors to provide her with two litres of blood.

The arrival of their baby comes a year after the couple suffered a 'heartbreaking' miscarriage.

Sharing a picture of himself in scrubs, kissing Victoria, Sid wrote: 'Been a long a day. But. Can I say. I love you Victoria. Thank you for our baby.'

Tragic: He was wearing scrubs for the first time since his character Ricky's girlfriend Bianca, played by Patsy Palmer, gave birth to a deceased baby on the BBC soap (pictured in-character)

The post was flooded with comments from Sid's EastEnders co-stars, with Patsy Palmer, who played his on-screen partner Bianca, writing 'Congratulations to you all.'

Dean Gaffney, who played Robbie Jackson, commented: 'Congrats brother.'

While Danniella Westbrook added: 'Congratulations daddy  and well done Victoria .'

In December the couple appeared on Loose Women where the waitress revealed their baby was due on Valentine's Day, before speaking about their devastating miscarriage.

Victoria, who claimed she was in a 'state of shock', said: 'For me, it's about the support after. You feel very low. I found it difficult to concentrate on anything.'

Loss: In December the couple appeared on Loose Women where the waitress revealed their baby was due on Valentine's Day, before speaking about their devastating miscarriage

'I'm a bit older and it wasn't my first experience but it was Sid's. When you're in your 40s you've coped with things in life.'

Her other-half added: 'It was really difficult. When it happened during Covid we went to hospital and I wasn't allowed in. I was on the phone checking up. I knew what had happened but I didn't want to believe it.'

The actor went on to outline how the pair lay down afterwards holding hands as Victoria wept.

He said: 'You just want to be strong for a partner. I can't even imagine what it's like for a woman internally.

'It was the first time I'd got someone pregnant. It was all that excitement. For years all of my brothers were telling me I was a Jaffar.'

Emotional: The actor went on to outline how the pair lay down afterwards holding hands as Victoria wept

Victoria, who has two children, shared the 'miracle' news that she'd fallen pregnant again, after originally planning to try IVF in their quest to start a family.

Sid reconnected with restaurant worker Victoria and fell in love, having previously met 23 years ago.

The soap star has previously been engaged twice. First to dancer Carty Hubbard, 41, in 2000, then to TV host Polly Parsons, 37.

Sid first announced his baby news back in September in an interview with the Sunday Mirror.

He told the publication at the time: 'I never ever dreamt I would have kids. The older you get the more distant that idea seems.

Moving forward: Sid first announced his baby news back in September, claiming: 'I never ever dreamt I would have kids'

'You give up hope sometimes, so it is a miracle it has happened. We'd spoken about it when we talked about marriage but I just didn't think it was going to happen. I was completely shocked and over the moon.'

He later took to Instagram to share a picture from the sonogram.

He has promised to try and keep his child grounded, after he revealed in his memoir From Rags To Riches that he had grown up in severe poverty after his father went to prison and his mother died when he was eight-years-old.

The couple first started dating in 1998 when they met at Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood's party, which was also attended by Kate Moss, John Galliano, Noel Gallagher, Jerry Hall and Mick Jagger.

They started flirting over a glass of wine in the kitchen and it wasn't long before Sid had wooed Victoria with his charm.

The pair then jetted off to see the Rolling Stones play in Amsterdam and subsequently dated for a year.

However, their romance eventually dwindled and Victoria moved on, married and had two children while Sid remained single.

Sid proposed to Victoria in the bridal suite of Eastwell Manor spa in Kent, and have now booked the manor's picturesque grounds for their wedding venue.

If you have been affected by the subject of this story please call the Miscarriage Association Helpline on 01924 200799.
By Azernews

By Kiymet Sezer

Turkish Air Forces (TAF) have destroyed approximately 80 PKK targets in northern Iraq and Syria as part of the Winter Eagle air campaign, Yeni Shafak newspaper has reported.

During the 4.5-hour air operation in Iraq's Sinjar, Karacak, and Syria's Derik regions, Turkish planes attacked PKK terrorists' shelters, bunkers, caves, tunnels, ammunition depots, and so-called headquarters and training camps.

It was noted that Turkish National Defence Minister Hulusi Akar, along with TAF commanders, directed the operation from the Air Forces Command's operations center.

The National Defence Ministry stated that the operation was carried out in accordance with the rights to self-defence derived from Article 51 of the UN Treaty, in order to prevent terrorist attacks and ensure border security.

Akar addressed the troops following the operation and said: "Terrorists' shelters, bunkers, lairs, and caves were destroyed on their heads... Numerous terrorists from every category on the wanted list have been apprehended. The operation's final results will be available in the coming hours. The PKK's demise has accelerated. The leaders were also aware of this. Our hope is that those on the ground will notice the collapse and surrender to justice."

The locations of the Winter Eagle Air Operation were identified as a result of long-term intelligence collected in the field by Turkey's National Intelligence Organization (MIT). As a result of the meticulously planned operation, only terrorist elements and the structures they used were targeted, with no civilians being harmed.

In addition to warplanes, tanker planes, Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) participated in the operation, which used mostly domestic and national ammunition. The planes hit targets in Karacak at a distance of 165 kilometers, Sinjar at a distance of 85 kilometers from the Iraqi border, and Derik at a distance of 9 kilometers from the Syrian border.

Nearly 80 targets were destroyed in three different regions during Operation Winter Eagle, in which approximately 60 aircraft were deployed. With 85 sorties, the warplanes destroyed the targets one by one. Explosions erupted one after the other in the ammunition depots targeted by the operation, where planes refueled in the air.

In Karacak, a building where PKK ringleaders were meeting was also targeted. Terrorist elements were tracked with UAVs along the Qandil Mountains and detected by MIT using sensitive tracking. The ringleaders who escaped from the MIT-organized point operations and went to the base areas in Karacak and Derik under the protection of the USA hunted in the so-called sheltered areas. The operation against the US-controlled point is also seen as a strong message to the US, which continues to back the PKK.

TAF conducted the Claw Eagle operation on the Sinjar, Makhmur, Zap, Haftanin, Avashin, Qandil, Darabi, and Karajak Mountains (Iraq) on June 15, 2020, and 81 PKK members were neutralized. On February 10, 2021, Operation Claw Eagle-2 was launched by airdropping on Siyana in the Gara region of Iraq, killing 50 terrorists (48 dead and 2 alive).

Terrorists use the Sinjar region, which is located at the crossroads of Syria and Iraq, as a transit point between the two countries. Terrorists' arms traffic is also supplied by Sinjar, which serves as a logistics hub. According to the accounts of the terrorists who surrendered, the PKK practically established an underground city with tunnels in Sinjar. In the tunnels where the so-called military training centers and headquarters are located, there is even a field hospital where terrorists injured in clashes are treated. Sinjar, the organization's main weapons depot, is also where the relationship between Iranian-backed militias and the PKK is established. Some PKK terrorists in Sinjar are known to be paid by the Iranian-backed militia Hashd al-Shaabi.

Karacak, on the other hand, is the Makhmur Camp, which serves as the organization's incubation center. Children who are abducted and separated from their families at a young age, as well as children born from the illegitimate relations of the organization's members, are first brought here.

Children aged 13 to 14 were transferred from Makhmur to Karacak, where they were trained in sabotage, assault, and so-called special forces. This camp also meets the basic needs of terrorists. Karacak, on the other hand, was one of the locations where PKK ringleaders fleeing Qandil sought refuge.

Derik is one of the region's largest PYD/YPG (PKK's Syrian extension) camps. The region serves as a hub for PKK terrorists and the administration of the organization's Syrian branch. In the camps in Derik, the so-called Syrian officers of the PKK hold meetings and make important decisions. Many soldiers and intelligence personnel from the region, particularly from the United States, England, France, and Russia, remain with the terrorists.

In Derik, foreign soldiers provide various trainings to PKK terrorists. The terrorist organization sells the oil it extracts from US and Russian shields in the areas it controls. Ammunition sent by the US to the PKK is first delivered to Derik and then distributed to PKK camps in Syria.
INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AfricanAmericanMidwest.com, a website and digital documentary on Black history in the Midwest, launched Tuesday, Feb. 1, for Black History Month.

The site features interactive maps documenting the Midwest Underground Railroad as well as lynchings and racist violence in the region; streaming video interviews with leading black Midwest scholars; extraordinary color photos of Dr. Martin Luther King's Chicago Campaign for fair housing; and more.

America's reckoning on race & history began in the Midwest but Black Midwest history still gets overlooked - until now. Tweet this TRAILER: The African American Midwest: A 400 Year Fight for Freedom (documentary in development)

"Black Midwest history is urgent, unique, amazing, yet overlooked  until now," said Dr. Ashley Howard, University of Iowa Professor and one of the African American Midwest scholars guiding the project.

"America's reckoning on race began in the Midwest, in Ferguson, Flint, and Minneapolis, but Black Midwest history has been lost in that conversation. Our project aspires to correct that."

RACIAL VIOLENCE IN THE MIDWEST

INTERACTIVE MAPS & PHOTOS

An interactive map documents 200 lynchings of African Americans in the region; another page is dedicated to mass racial violence, including the 1917 East St. Louis massacre, the 1919 Chicago riot, and the 1943 and '68 Detroit Riots.

SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS, HOLLYWOOD MOVIES

The site also features links to Black Midwest popular culture, including:

A Spotify playlist featuring legendary Black Midwest musicians, from Motown artists, to Charlie Parker , Chuck Berry to Aretha Franklin .

, to . Movies and documentaries focusing on the Black Midwest history, including HBO's Oscar winner Judas and the Black Messiah, Netflix's The Underground Railroad, and ABC's Women of the Movement.

AFRICAN AMERICAN MIDWEST SCHOLARS/CONSULTING PRODUCERS

The team guiding the project include leading scholars of the African American Midwest who are serving as consulting producers, including:

Dr. Terrion Williamson, Professor of Black Studies, University of Illinois-Chicago

Dr. Christy Clark-Pujara , Professor of History, University of Wisconsin

, Professor of History, Dr. Ashley Howard , Professor of History, University of Iowa

, Professor of History, Dr. Erik McDuffie , Professor of History, University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana

, Professor of History, Champaign-Urbana Dr. Crystal Moten , Curator, Smithsonian National Museum of American History

, Curator, Smithsonian National Museum of American History Christopher Wilson , Director of African American History, the Smithsonian National Museum of American History

, Director of African American History, the Smithsonian National Museum of American History Donald Hancock , Professor, University of Cincinnati

Also serving as consulting producers are Jenna Hanchard, Emmy- and Edward R. Murrow Award-nominee and host of the Lola's Ink podcast; and Lend Frison, Director/Producer of La Mancha Film Co.

Dan Manatt, award-winning documentary filmmaker of Democracy Films is serving as coordinating producer.

AfricanAmericanMidwest.com is the companion website to the public television documentary film, The African American Midwest: A 400 Year Fight for Freedom, in development.

Documentary project participants include the Midwestern History Association, Democracy Films, and the Milwaukee Filmmakers Alliance. Support for the project is being provided by Humanities Iowa; Humanities Kansas; Indiana Humanities; and Wisconsin Humanities.

For more information, visit AfricanAmericanMidwest.com

SOURCE AfricanAmericanMidwest
UN Undersecretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo (C) speaks at a Security Council meeting on Ukraine at UN Headquarters in New York on Jan. 31, 2022. DiCarlo on Monday called for dialogue to defuse the current tensions between Russia and Ukraine. (Eskinder Debebe/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)

by Xinhua writers Deng Xianlai, Zhang Yisheng and Feng Yasong

WASHINGTON, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- U.S. and Russian diplomats on Monday had a heated debate at the United Nations Security Council over the Ukraine crisis, with the U.S. side blaming Russia for intending to invade Ukraine and Russian diplomats accusing Washington of "whipping up tensions" over the current crisis.

Analysts said that the current U.S. administration has reasons to keep fueling the already-strained Russia-Ukraine tensions: one is to use the crisis to divert domestic attention and build momentum for the upcoming mid-term elections; the other is to revive its influence over Europe by uniting its European allies against Russia.

U.S. TOOLKIT

Experts said the U.S. administration has taken three major moves over the crisis on the Ukrainian border.

The first is to exaggerate an imminent Russian "attack" on Ukraine by disclosing relevant "intelligence" obtained by the U.S. and its allies, revealing so-called "evidence" of Russia's continued destabilization of Ukraine, and ordering the departure of U.S. staff at its embassy in Ukraine.

The second is to beef up the threat of economic sanctions against Russia. The potential sanctions target several large Russian banks and some important financial institutions, and even Russian President Vladimir Putin, in an effort to cut Russia's ties with the Western financial system.

The third is to strengthen military deployment within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), while assisting Ukraine without directly sending troops to the country. Several shipments of weapons have been sent to Ukraine and more military and economic aid has been promised by the United States.

Moscow disapproves of Washington's moves over the current crisis surrounding Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that U.S. news outlets in recent months "have been publishing a very large amount of unverified, distorted and deliberately false and provocative information about what is happening in Ukraine and around it."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow did not want war, but would not allow its interests to be undermined or overlooked.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday also called on the West not to create "panic" over the current crisis, adding that warnings of an imminent attack were putting Ukraine's economy at risk.

U.S. MOTIVATION

Analysts said that Washington's overblown description of a looming war relates to its own domestic and diplomatic concerns.

On the domestic front, the current administration's move on the Ukraine crisis could show its toughness in foreign policy, over which Republicans have been keen to accuse U.S. President Joe Biden of being weak.

As Biden's approval ratings are at a low point, local media said that his hawkish attitude toward Russia is likely to gain more votes in the November mid-term elections.

Diplomatically, the Biden administration could use the Russia-Ukraine tensions to further pressure Moscow, and consequently to woo and unite European allies to take a tougher stance against Russia.

Given that the U.S. international image has been tarnished by its hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan last year, the Ukraine crisis would be a chance for the Biden administration to show off its leadership in the West.

However, foreign policy is not a top priority in the U.S. election campaign at this stage. Americans, instead, are more concerned about the economy, the pandemic and other issues closer to their personal lives. In addition, many European countries, which rely on Russia for energy, do not want to escalate the tensions and do not want to be bound by the U.S. policy towards Russia, experts have said.

CALL FOR DIALOGUE

In contrast to U.S. efforts to fan the flames, the international community has been actively mediating to cool the current tensions through dialogue.

Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, on Monday called for quiet diplomacy instead of megaphone diplomacy on the tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

The parties concerned should persist in seeking to resolve their differences through dialogue and negotiations, Zhang said. "China once again calls on all parties concerned to remain calm, not to do anything to aggravate tensions or hype up the crisis, and to properly resolve their differences through consultations on an equal footing on the basis of mutual respect and fully taking into account each other's legitimate security concerns," Zhang said.

China's position on Ukraine is consistent, said Zhang, adding that to resolve the current issue, there is a need to return to the original point of implementing the new Minsk Agreement, which was endorsed by the Security Council in its Resolution 2202.

Putin has said that he would continue Russia's dialogue with the West, while Zelensky also expressed hope for increased diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.

Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron held a phone conversation on Friday to discuss the establishment of long-term and legally binding security guarantees between Russia and the West.

Putin stressed that the U.S. and NATO responses did not take into account such fundamental concerns of Russia as stopping NATO's expansion and refraining from deploying offensive weapons near Russian borders, among others.

When discussing the situation in Ukraine, the Russian leader emphasized the importance of Kiev's strict compliance with the 2015 Minsk Agreements and other deals.

"Dialogue with Russia is not a gamble, it is an approach that responds to a necessity," an anonymous senior official was quoted by The New York Times as saying. 
Here we go again.

After decades of planning, the Interstate 74 bridge in the Quad-Cities is finished. On its heels, planning for a new I-80 bridge over the Mississippi River is entering a new phase.

The Illinois Department of Transportation, DOT, this week authorized its consultant to begin the first phase of engineering studies for the replacement of the span between LeClaire and Rapids City.

Most pressing for those who live, work or own property along the bridge corridor is the question of where the bridge will go  upstream, downstream or in the same location as the current bridge.

The short answer: It's too soon to say.

But also clear is that the new I-80 bridge is on a fast track compared to I-74.

"As it so happens, I was project manager for I-74 for DOT," said Becky Marruffo, engineer of program development for the Illinois DOT. "One thing that's different is that we have funding (for I-80). The 74 was initially a little pie in the sky."

What is happening now

The first phase of the engineering study for I-80 is expected to take many months, and the DOT expects to ask for more public input next summer. The study will result in an environmental document, which will include potential impacts on people and properties.

"It's much more than fish and turtles and trees," Marruffo said. "Preliminary engineering and environmentals really go hand-in-hand."

In studying the ways in which the new bridge is likely to impact animals, property, people, the river and everything else in its path, the options for the realignment of the span must be carefully considered.

"When looking at potential realignment, interchanges must be considered, too," she said. "There may be mitigation issues, such as relocating mussels with the I-74 project."

As far as the proposed reuse of the infrastructure for a national park or a two-state park, Bison Bridge is not currently among the considerations for impacts and relocation of I-80.

"The Bison Bridge is not an existing element, so what we're going to do is evaluate deals with existing conditions," Marruffo said Friday.

The future of Bison Bridge is very much dependent upon the decision. If I-80 is simply rebuilt in its current location, the idea for the country's largest man-made wildlife crossing no longer moves forward.

When the first phase of engineering and the environmental studies are complete, another consultant will be hired to conduct the second engineering phase, frequently referred to as "the blue print," she said.

"It'll take at least a couple of years for phase two," she said. "It'll be several years before construction occurs."

The possibilities

Officials in LeClaire and Rapids City have specific preferences related to the possible relocation of the I-80 bridge.

Their preferences are likely to have little impact on the final alignment decision, but they hope to be heard.

Whatever the location, I-80 construction is likely to differ considerably from impacts on downtown Bettendorf and Moline that resulted from the I-74 relocation. The chief reason is that the I-74 is in a more urban location, resulting in the acquisition and relocation of dozens of businesses and some homes.

While some homes and businesses in LeClaire and Rapids City could be subject to state buy-outs, fewer exist than in the Moline/Bettendorf corridors.

In fact, the current I-80 bridge is not in Rapids City proper; the land there is in the county.

"If the new bridge goes upstream, then that definitely impacts Rapids City," said Village Board President Harold Mire Jr. "If you go upstream at all, you're getting i

nto those big houses on the riverfront.

"My first preference is to build right where it's at. I think that disturbs as little of the surrounding area as possible. We're hoping it doesn't come upriver, because we don't want to disturb the quaintness of the village."

If I-80 is relocated, Mire said, he supports the Bison Bridge proposal, saying it makes the most sense from a taxpayer standpoint because it eliminates the cost of demolition while transferring the maintenance responsibilities to a private foundation.

LeClaire Mayor Ray Allen said he and others in LeClaire have a different priority.

"We'd love to have another interchange  a way to route our heavy truck traffic around town, rather than right through it," he said. "The DOT doesn't always listen, but we are expressing our desire to have another interchange. That's our biggest issue."

The city's new administrator starts at the end of next month, the mayor said, and matters surrounding the possible relocation of the bridge will become a major focus.

"I know there are a number of people who are very nervous about what will happen with that bridge, and I understand that," he said. "You don't want to have to move."

In the event of a bridge realignment, Marruffo said, state transportation officials will be responsible for private-property acquisition.

"As far as Bison Bridge goes, that may have sounded like a crazy idea at first, but it has more legs than people think," Allen said.
Emirates has launched an investigation after one of its Boeing 777s took off from Dubai, bound for Washington DC, too low and too fast  and at the end of the runway safety area.

The December 20 incident has been described by one long-haul Boeing captain as 'very dangerous', a disaster averted by mere seconds. A passenger on board at the time said it was 'terrifying'.

According to data transmitted by the aircraft's transponder it accelerated to at least 248mph (216 knots)  far beyond a normal take-off velocity  before leaving the ground. The aircraft then became airborne but only reached a height of 75ft as it flew over buildings, at which point it had accelerated to 269mph (234 knots).

Emirates has launched an investigation after one of its Boeing 777s, destined for Washington Dulles, took off from Dubai too low and too fast  and at the end of the runway safety area. The picture above is from a Flightradar24 playback of the departure

Emirates flight EK231, above, apparently overran the runway on departure and became airborne right at the limit of Dubai's airport and the city

The plane, registration A6-EQI and on runway 30R, then accelerated to 300mph (262 knots), by which time it was only 175ft up.

By comparison, according to website Onemileatatime.com, which analysed Flightradar24 data, the same service a few days earlier took off at 204mph (178 knots) before climbing at 218mph (190 knots) to 225ft. It then reached 750ft at 216mph (188 knots).

What's more, the early-morning December 20 flight - EK231 - according to AV Herald, left the ground just 90 metres (295ft) from the radio beacon antennas positioned at the end.

Aside from the obvious dangers of flying so low and fast over buildings, events like this, known in the aviation industry as a 'flap overspeed event', can put dangerous stress on the aircraft, as it's flying too fast for the flap setting.

The December 20 flight, which took off around 2.30am, climbed to a safe altitude and continued to Washington DC without further incident.

In Washington, it was inspected before making the return journey to Dubai, where it reportedly underwent a four-day safety inspection.

Several people who were on the flight, or knew someone who was on it, took to aviation websites to comment.

'I was on that flight and let me say that was the most terrifying thing I have ever experienced,' one passenger wrote in the comments section of a God Save The Points story about the incident.

Richard Guest, commenting on onemileatatime.com, said: 'I am a very frequent flyer with Emirates and not at all a nervous flyer. At 2:30am, you're not really wide awake since most of us on this flight also came via a connection. I did notice that we just didn't seem to be gaining altitude like normal. It did 'freak me out' a bit, but I kept thinking, well, it's because it's so heavy with fuel for the 14-hour flight. I know the Dubai USA flights are always heavy at take-off.

'None of the flight attendants ever said a word to me (I was in First) about this, and I didn't really think to ask in the latter half of the flight.'

Another wrote: 'My husband was on the flight, and he and the guy across the aisle from him were terrified during take-off. My husband thought the engine was damaged, although he said everything felt normal after take-off.'

The incident took place on December 20, 2021, with the 777 accelerating to at least 216 knots (248mph)  far beyond a normal take-off velocity  before leaving the ground (stock image of a 777 cockpit)

The Boeing captain, who has experience flying 747s and Dreamliners and who spoke to MailOnline Travel anonymously, said: 'This incident was very dangerous and could easily have led to the aircraft hitting a building or indeed the ground.

'It appears that the aircraft had both a tyre and flap overspeed event, going too fast on the ground for the tyres and too fast in the air for the wing flaps they had selected.

'On that basis returning to Dubai would have been a more appropriate course of action than continuing the flight. The fact that the aircraft didn't fly for four days after returning to Dubai indicates that Emirates felt it needed an extensive engineering check before being fit to fly. So it should not have operated Dubai-Washington-Dubai [14 hours each way] before the checks were completed.'

Emirates has offered no explanation for the incident and no cockpit recording has been released.

This means that the aviation community has been left to speculate about the possible causes, though there is one potential clue.

It could be that an incorrect 'target' post-take-off altitude had been inputted into the plane's computer before take-off.

Pictured above is Dubai airport. The incident took place on runway 30R, with the plane eventually carrying safely on to Washington DC

Shortly after the incident, Emirates issued a Notam (notice to air missions) crew alert to remind them not to set the altitude on the 'mode control panel', which controls the autopilot, to the airport altitude.

It read: 'Crews are reminded that there are no requirements to change the MCP [mode control panel] after landing or shutdown.

It appears that the aircraft had both a tyre and flap overspeed event, going too fast on the ground for the tyres and too fast in the air for the wing flaps they had selected Long-haul airline captain

'There have been times when the MCP "altitude window" has been set to the airport elevation, which may cause issues on the subsequent departure. Crews shall not set airport elevation on the MCP after landing or shut down.'

One theory is that the previous crew had set the 'autopilot altitude target window' to 0000 when they shut the aircraft down and that this put the 'flight director' into the wrong mode, 'maintain selected altitude', instead of TOGA (take-off/go-around).

Put simply, the 'flight director' is a cross that gives lateral and vertical guidance on the 'Primary Flight Display' (artificial horizon) screen in the cockpit - it indicates the pitch 'attitude' that the aircraft should be flown at. And in this instance, it's possible that it was directing the crew to point the aircraft too low on take-off and not at the correct 12 to 15 per cent angle.

The flight director doesn't control the aircraft, it's a guide, and the autopilot in a 777 doesn't kick in until at least 200ft in altitude, so as the plane is going down the runway, the pilots are in full manual control.

However, it could be, the Boeing captain said, that the pilots became distracted by the unusual computer indications.

He said: 'The flight director bar should indicate the target pitch attitude for take-off and it is up to the pilot to rotate the aircraft up to this attitude to climb away at a safe speed.

'"Rotate" is called by the monitoring pilot - the one not with hands on the controls - and the handling pilot then pulls back on the control column to rotate the aircraft to the take-off pitch attitude.

'If he/she doesn't call "rotate", then the handling pilot should do it anyway as they should be monitoring aircraft speed during the take-off roll [the correct take-off speed is worked out beforehand depending on the aircraft's weight and weather conditions]. My guess here is that the monitoring pilot was confused by the strange appearance of the flight director - again I'm guessing here that it was in ALT mode not TOGA - and "tunnelled in" on that distraction, missing the necessary call of "rotate". '

There is speculation that an incorrect 'target' post-take-off altitude had been inputted into the plane's mode control panel (stock image above) before take-off

TOP TABLE: This data from Flightradar24, published by Onemileatatime.com, shows how the December 20 flight was still on the ground at 216 knots (248mph). BOTTOM TABLE: This data is from the same service, but a few days earlier. The figures on the far right show speed in knots and in the column to the left, altitude in feet

He added: 'It appears that once the error was identified, they managed to engage some suitable autopilot modes, climb the aircraft and retract the flaps - but this took time with the aircraft travelling much faster than would be normal for the altitude they were at.

'I would guess that some Emirates pilots have generated a "habit" of setting 0000 in the autopilot altitude target window as part of shutting the aircraft down. Why? Probably because they thought it was a good idea in order to prevent possible altitude setting errors by the next crew - because everybody knows 0000 is incorrect.

'The issue is that if the setting of 0000 is missed in the cockpit setup, it has the ability to generate some dire consequences. The moral of the story - operate the aircraft to Boeing/Emirates standard operating procedures, don't introduce procedures of your own, particularly in critical areas.'

Another pilot, who has previously worked for Emirates, added: 'Any airline pilot knows that if the flight director fails or gives wrong commands you just ignore it and fly the airplane.'

An Emirates spokesperson said: 'We can confirm that a technical incident occurred on the departure of EK231 on 20 December 2021. The flight continued safely to its destination, and after technical clearances the aircraft operated the return flight to Dubai. The incident is under investigation, and we are unable to provide further comment at this time. Safety is at the heart of everything we do and would never be compromised.'

The U.S Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said: 'The FAA is aware of this incident. Civil aviation authorities in the United Arab Emirates are in charge of the investigation.'

It is the first of two potentially disastrous incidents in Dubai within weeks of each other. The second involved Emirates flight EK524 - also a Boeing 777 - going to Hyderabad on January 9, which rolled without clearance while another plane was crossing the same runway.
By Trend

Armenia and Azerbaijan, mediated by Russia, are very close to starting construction and restoration of a railway, which means opening the communications in the region, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated at the governmental meeting, Trend reports referring to the Armenian media.

According to Pashinyan, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexei Overchuk and General Director of Russian Railways company Oleg Belozerov arrived in Yerevan on Feb. 2 on a working visit and met with Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan.

I want to stress that we are very close to fixing the first practical result of the tripartite working group on opening the communications," Pashinyan said.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. The government of Armenia ratified today the readmission agreement which has been signed with the government of Belarus.

The agreement notes that its necessary to take join and systematic steps for discovering and organizing the return of their own citizens who are in illegal status in their territories, as well as the citizens of the third countries and the persons with no citizenship.

The respective bill was approved at the Cabinet meeting today. It aims at ensuring the effective organization of readmission processes.
SAN DIEGO and BLUE BELL, Pa., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- UBC, a late-stage research and patient support services organization has partnered with Seqster PDM, Inc. (" Seqster "), the leading patient-centric healthcare technology company, to provide nationwide health record interoperability with patient engagement. UBC will utilize the technology to enable clinical and observational research to transition from traditional site-based studies to decentralized clinical trials (DCTs). Seqster's turnkey white label solution facilitates the rapid move to a fully decentralized approach with automated data acquisition and abstraction.

UBC and Seqster logos

"UBC is a leader and innovator in the Pharma Services world and we are delighted to become their partner in designing modernized decentralized and hybrid study models," says Ardy Arianpour, CEO of Seqster. "This partnership enables participants, researchers, and pharma the flexibility to conduct clinical trials and observational studies beyond the traditional site-based setting to a fully decentralized or hybrid design while adding a critical patient engagement layer to every study. In addition, the Seqster platform will facilitate patient recruitment, which is the number one reason most clinical trials fail."

Traditional site-based clinical studies rely on manual data capture methods and in-person attendance of study participants. The pandemic has exacerbated the already costly and time-consuming patient recruitment and data capture components required to successfully conduct and complete clinical trials and observational studies. With the Seqster technology, UBC can combine nationwide real-time data interoperability plus patient engagement into a single platform and run faster, less expensive, and more effective studies.

"Seqster's platform allows us to fundamentally modernize study designs by capitalizing on patient mediated medical record release, thus enabling the acquisition of consolidated longitudinal health care records without the reliance on manual site-based data entry. This capability significantly enhances UBC's ability to aggregate and deliver high-quality data for evidence generation" said Aaron Berger, Executive Director, RWE of UBC. "The ability to integrate real-time, real-world data into any study is a game-changer for our clients."

The companies did not disclose further financial or deal information at this time.

About UBC

United BioSource LLC (UBC) is a leader in the biopharmaceutical market which provides integrated clinical, safety, and commercialization services. UBC brings together renowned scientific research and operations experts with innovative technologies, allowing for the best patient and healthcare provider experience. Comprehensive, end-to-end services cover product and patient population characterization during development and market entry, as well as a focus on the patient experience, safety, and adherence. For additional information, visit https://ubc.com/.

About Seqster

Seqster is the leading healthcare technology company that breaks down health data silos at scale. Its enterprise SaaS platforms aggregate disparate health data sources into a single, 360-degree view of a patient in real-time, solving a multitude of challenges for life sciences, patient engagement and data interoperability.

Seqster has nationwide coverage of EHRs from hospitals and medical groups, genomic DNA, wearables, pharmacy and social determinants of health data. Through its customizable white-label approach, Seqster provides accelerated access to de-identified, tokenized, real-time data and comprehensive curated data to address critical needs across the healthcare continuum.

Seqster is privately held and headquartered in San Diego. To learn more about Seqster's platforms for Life Sciences, Patient Engagement and Data Interoperability, please contact us at [email protected] or visit www.seqster.com

SOURCE United BioSource LLC; Seqster PDM, Inc.
DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global 3D Printed Medical Devices 2021-2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global market for 3D printed medical devices - should grow from $1.7 billion in 2021 to $4.9 billion by 2026, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.5% for the period of 2021-2026.

The North American market for 3D printed medical devices should grow from $632.6 million in 2021 to $1.9 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 24.9% for the period of 2021-2026.

in 2021 to by 2026, at a CAGR of 24.9% for the period of 2021-2026. The Asia-Pacific market for 3D printed medical devices should grow from $367.5 million in 2021 to $1.2 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 26.7% for the period of 2021-2026.

3D printed medical devices are a segment of the larger medical device industry. These devices can be manufactured at end-user facilities with 3D printers and compatible scanners and software or purchased through a 3D printing vendor, which uses transmitted patient scans digitally to print the device that is then delivered to the healthcare provider.

There are numerous end-user markets for 3D printed medical devices. Hospitals, physical therapist clinics, outpatient care centers and physicians' offices worldwide use millions of medical devices for implanting joints, surgeries (instruments), joint braces (orthopedics) and prosthetics. 3D printed orthodontic appliances are becoming increasingly common and are manufactured in-house at a growing rate.

The term 3D printing originally referred to a process that deposits a binder material onto a powder bed with inkjet printer heads layer by layer. More recently, the term is being used to encompass a broader variety of additive manufacturing techniques.

While the industry is enjoying dramatic success, there are hurdles to maintaining this in the future. Insiders recognize the continued need for global industry standards, both in terminology and production methodologies but also in testing standards and safety standards. Many of these standards are being applied to the industry by government agencies that test devices and give approval to new devices, but it is the industry companies that will work together to enhance these standards.

Government regulations are another hurdle for industry companies. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves devices and sets guidelines that companies must adhere to when submitting new devices to testing.

The FDA issued guidance for 3D printing medical device manufacturers in 2017 which serves as technical considerations for additive manufactured devices. The guidance is intended for public health safety and product development.

Report Scope

The taxonomy of the market by component, material, technology, application, end-user and the geographical region was considered for this study. Using 2020 as the base year, the report provides estimated market data for the forecast period of 2021 through 2026. Market values have been estimated based on total revenue from hardware, software and services, and material provider revenues.

This report also focuses on the drivers and challenges impacting the market. The report explores current trends in the 3D printed medical devices market, concluding with an analysis of the vendor landscape and profiles of the major players in the global market.

The Report Includes

An up-to-date review of the global market for 3D printed medical devices

Analyses of the global market trends, with data from 2020, estimates for 2021, 2022 and 2024, along with projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) through 2026

Highlights of the market potential for 3D printing technologies in orthopedic and cranial implants, surgical instruments and dental restorations; opportunities and gaps estimating current and future demand; and impact of COVID-19 on the progress of this market

Evaluation and forecast the global 3D printed medical devices market size in dollar value terms, and corresponding market share analysis by technology, material, application, component, end-user and geographic region

Discussion of key market dynamics (DROs), technology advancements, regulatory scenario, pricing analysis in the global market and its sub-segments

Identification of the major stakeholders and analysis of their competitive landscape based on recent developments and segmental revenues

Insight into the recent R&D activities, mergers and acquisitions, collaboration agreements, and competitive environment of the leading vendor companies

Company profile descriptions of the leading market players including 3D Systems, EnvisionTec, EOS, General Electric Additive, Materialise N.V.,and Stratasys Ltd.

Key Topics Covered:

Chapter 1 Introduction

Market Definition

Study Goals and Objectives

Reasons for Doing This Study

What's New in This Update

Scope of Report

Intended Audiences

Information Sources

Methodology

Geographic Breakdown

Analyst's Credentials

Custom Research

Related Reports

Chapter 2 Summary and Highlights

Chapter 3 Market and Technology Background

Value Chain Analysis

History of 3D Printing

Current Market Trends

3D Printing Methods

Market Regulations

Patent Analysis

Market Drivers

Technological Developments

Government Initiatives

Market Challenges

Regulatory Challenges

Need for Skilled Workforce

High Initial Setup Costs

Market Opportunities

Direct Digital Manufacturing

Emergence of Desktop Printers

4D Printing

Porter's Five Forces Analysis

Impact of COVID-19

Future of 3D Printed Medical Devices

Needs of 3D Printing

Patient-specific Devices

Generic Devices

Cloud Manufacturing

Chapter 4 Market Breakdown by Component

Software and Services

Materials

Equipment/Hardware

Chapter 5 Market Breakdown by Technology

Introduction

Material Extrusion

Powder Bed Fusion

Vat Polymerization

Material Jetting

Binder Jetting

Directed Energy Deposition

Sheet Lamination

Other Technologies

Chapter 6 Market Breakdown by Material

Metals

Polymers

Ceramics

Biomaterials

Other Materials

Chapter 7 Market Breakdown by Application

Prototyping, Design and Development

Anatomical Models

Surgical Instruments

Prosthetics

Implants

Dental

Bioprinting

Other Applications

Chapter 8 Market Breakdown by End User

Introduction

Hospitals and Clinics

Academic and Research Institutions

Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Manufacturers

Other End Users

Chapter 9 Market Breakdown by Region

North America

Europe

Asia-Pacific

RoW

Chapter 10 Competitive Landscape

Market Share Analysis

Chapter 11 Company Profiles

Key Market Players

3D Systems Corp.

Envisiontec Inc.

EOS Gmbh

General Electric Additive

Materialise N.V.

Renishaw Plc

Stratasys Ltd.

Other Players

3D Bioprinting Solutions

3D Lifeprints

3D Orthotics Ltd.

Additive Orthopaedics Llc

Adeiss

Align Technology

Amedica Corp.

Anatomicsrx

Anatomikmodeling

Anika Therapeutics Inc.

Antleron

Aspect Biosystems

Bioarchitects

Biolase Inc.

Breca Health Care

Carbon Inc.

Conformis

Core3Dcentres

Cyfuse Biomedical

Dentis Usa

Dentsply Sirona

Depuy Synthes

Dunlee

Esstech Inc.

Evo Dental

Exone

Fast Radius

Formlabs Inc.

Handsmith Inc.

Hewlett Packard Inc.

Invent Medical

Koln 3D Technology (Industry) Co. Ltd.

3D Technology (Industry) Co. Ltd. Lima Corp.

Limbforge

Limbitless Solutions

Luminex Corp.

Maxon Computer Gmbh

Medicrea

Medprin Biotech Gmbh

Medtronic

Microfabrica Inc.

MT Ortho Srl

Norman Noble Am

Novax Dma

Onkos Surgical Inc.

Open Bionics

Optomec Inc.

Organovo Inc.

Osseus Fusion Systems

Oxford Performance Materials

Resound U.S.

Rokit Inc.

Royal Dsm (Koninklijke Dsm N.V.)

Salvatore Dental

Si-Bone Inc.

Sinterex

Smile Direct Club

Smith & Nephew Plc

Solidscape Inc.

Sonova Ag

Standard Cyborg Inc.

Stryker Corp.

Tangible Solutions

Unyq Design Inc.

Xometry

Zimmer Biomet

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/hm6fdv

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets
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In brief: It's no secret that China is behind many of the hacks on US businesses and government entities, but the sheer number of attacks originating from the Asian nation is massive. According to the FBI, China is responsible for more cyberattacks on the US than every other country combined.

In a speech called Countering Threats Posed by the Chinese Government Inside the US, Federal Bureau of Investigation director Christopher Wray said that the FBI is running over 2,000 investigations focused on the Chinese government trying to steal US information and technology.

"The Chinese government steals staggering volumes of information and causes deep, job-destroying damage across a wide range of industries---so much so that, as you heard, we're constantly opening new cases to counter their intelligence operations, about every 12 hours or so," he said.

Wray cites the Microsoft Exchange hack, which impacted the networks of 10,000 American companies, as an example of the damage Chinese hackers can cause US industry. He added that another attack by a Chinese government-owned corporation in which source code was stolen from a US wind turbine company in Massachusetts (American Superconductor) resulted in 600 people losing their jobs. The company responsible, Sinovel, then used the stolen source code to sell wind turbines in the US.

Wray accuses China of stealing key technology to succeed in initiatives such as the Made in China 2025 plan and highlighted how the government can control those companies it doesn't own "through embedded Chinese Communist Party cells that are required to exist in virtually any Chinese company of any real size."

In 2015, President Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping signed a cybersecurity pact agreeing that neither country would conduct or knowingly support cyber-enabled theft of intellectual property. Reports that China was ignoring the pact came a month after it was signed, and Wray says China has continued to increase the number of attacks in the years since.

The director summed up with, "There is so much good we could do with a responsible Chinese government: crack down on cyber criminals, stop money launderers, reduce opioid overdose deaths. But at the FBI, we're focused on the reality of the Chinese government today."

h/t: The Reg
WASHINGTON - U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Roger Dow delivered an assessment and vision for the U.S. travel industry at the associations annual State of the Travel Industry address on Wednesday, delivered via webcast from the National Press Club.

Said Dow: We should not singularly view the pandemic as a setback but as an opportunity to reimagine this industry to be stronger than before.

Dow acknowledged short-term priorities that Congress and the Biden administration should act immediately upon to ensure an even recovery for all sectors of travel, while also mapping out a plan that looks beyond the pandemic to return the industry to growth and increase competitiveness for decades to come.

U.S. Travel Association Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy Tori Emerson Barnes joined Dow and offered remarks on the future of a rapidly evolving travel industry.

While the road to full recovery may be longer than we would like, we are already looking far beyond the pandemic to a brighter, more globally competitive, sustainable, diverse and innovative future for the whole of the U.S. travel industry, said Barnes.

U.S. Travel Association National Chair Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, also spoke during the address and praised Dows 17-year leadership at the association.

Dow and Barnes highlighted the five key areas of focus that will drive the association and the broader travel industry in the months and years ahead:

Workforce

Facilitation and security

The future of travel mobility

Sustainability

Diversity, equity and inclusion

We have a robust policy agenda and a clear strategy to revive Americas travel industry, but Congress and the Biden administration must continue to work closely with the travel sector to help the industry bounce back quickly, said Dow.

Dow also thanked U.S. Travels industry partners for their close collaboration throughout the pandemic, which strengthened and positioned the industry for future growth.

There are a lot of great things ahead for travel and I know that together, this industry has the vision and determination to get it done, Dow said.

Click here to read the full prepared remarks.

About U.S. Travel Association

U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing all components of the travel industry. Travelers in the United States are estimated to spend $1.1 trillion in 2022 (still 10% below 2019 levels). U.S. Travel advocates for policies to accelerate an even recovery across the travel industry and restore economic and job growth for this essential contributor to our nation's success. Visit ustravel.org for information and recovery-related data.
AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Billd, the leading provider of material financing and other payment solutions for commercial subcontractors, announces the addition of Devon Choo as the company's Chief Operating Officer (COO). Choo joins Billd with nearly 20 years of experience in business development, product management, and strategic management across several prominent companies.

Solving a multitude of payment and liquidity challenges for subcontractors in construction, the addition of Choo serves to further support Billds vision to champion the subcontractor, and to provide them the tools they need to succeed and grow. After a successful year of Series B funding, and several strategic partnerships, Billd continues to add to the executive suite to support the infrastructure need for continued expansion.

"The addition of Devon Choo as Billd's Chief Operating Officer is an important step forward in our continuing efforts to deliver the absolute best customer experience for subcontractors," said Christopher Doyle, Billd's President and CEO. "The onboarding of Devon positions us perfectly for the launch of several new payment products in 2022 as well as the implementation of a variety of operational efficiencies to support our continued growth."

Choo was most recently COO of With Clarity, where he was recruited to guide the company through the hyper-growth stage and partnered with founders to increase revenue by $64 million in three years. As a general manager for eBay, Choo managed the strategic direction and operational excellence of a seven-billion-dollar business and the largest vertical in eBay's North America operation. Prior to eBay, Choo was Vice President of Buy.com (A Rakuten Group Company), where the CEO recruited him to improve product assortment, merchandising strategy, vendor relationships, and drive overall sales, among other responsibilities.

About Billd

Billd was started by Christopher Doyle and Jesse Weissburg, industry veterans in both construction and finance. Chris and Jesse were inspired to launch Billd to bring the financial power of Wall Street to the construction job site, allowing subcontractors to bypass project hurdles with access to upfront funds while enabling suppliers to sell more materials with less risk. For subcontractors who usually aren't paid until more than 90 days from purchasing materials, Billd provides 120-day terms so they can stabilize cash flow and more effectively grow their businesses. With a deep understanding of the construction industry, Billd knows traditional credit metrics are poor predictors for risk in this vertical segment and has built a variety of industry-specific proprietary analytic tools to better assess risk in the construction industry.

SOURCE Billd
VANCOUVER, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Lumina Gold Corp. (TSXV: LUM) ( OTCQX: LMGDF) (the "Company" or "Lumina") is pleased to announce drill results from the first two holes of the 2021-2022 drill program. These holes represent 1,227 metres of drilling. Both holes were drilled on the Cangrejos deposit. Through January 31st, 4,803 meters of the planned program has been drilled. Of the 12 holes completed or started to date, 10 are at Cangrejos and 2 are at Gran Bestia.

Drill Highlights:

Figure 1: Drill Hole Location Map (CNW Group/Lumina Gold Corp.)

C19-148: 550 metre hole with continuous gold mineralization; 470 metres above cut-off

 Including 266 metres of 0.69 g/t gold and 0.10% copper; containing 40 metres of 1.34 g/t gold and 0.14% copper

 Including 266 metres of 0.69 g/t gold and 0.10% copper; containing 40 metres of 1.34 g/t gold and 0.14% copper C19-149: 672 metre hole with continuous gold mineralization; 596 metres above cut-off

 Including 240 metres of 0.58 g/t gold and 0.21% copper from surface; containing 20 metres of 1.39 g/t gold and 0.19% copper

The collars of holes 148 and 149, located approximately 200 meters apart, were drilled in opposite directions in the south-central portion of the Cangrejos deposit. Both holes cut hundreds of metres of strong mineralization. As expected, higher gold values relate to zones of higher copper grades (largely occurring as chalcopyrite). The highest gold values are associated with intervals where copper occurs in both chalcopyrite and bornite mineralization. It's important to note that the mineralization is hosted in all rock types present in the holes, equigranular granodiorite, multiple porphyritic phases as well as tourmaline breccia. Both holes ended in mineralization.

Table 1: Drill Intercept Summary

Hole

Number Deposit From To Interval Au

Grade Cu

Grade Au Eq.

Grade Cu Eq.

Grade Azimuth

/ Dip Total

Depth (m) (m) (m) (g/t) (%) (g/t) (%) () (m) C19-148 Cangrejos 10 128 118 0.67 0.08 0.79 0.58 150 / -71 550 Incl.

10 50 40 1.10 0.09 1.25 0.91



And

148 414 266 0.69 0.10 0.85 0.62



Incl.

280 320 40 1.34 0.14 1.56 1.14



And

454 550 96 0.52 0.14 0.75 0.54



C19-149 Cangrejos 0 240 240 0.58 0.21 0.89 0.65 330 / -53 672 And

316 672 356 0.65 0.11 0.82 0.60



Incl.

380 400 20 1.39 0.19 1.68 1.22





Note: Intervals in the reported holes are calculated using a cut-off of 0.2 g/t Au with maximum internal dilution of ten continuous metres. Sampling is done in consistent, continuous 2-metre intervals. The highest gold value used in the reported weighted averages is 8.78 g/t Au. In addition to the above results there were multiple intercepts of lower-grade material in the drill holes. Equivalent values were calculated using Gold equivalent values were calculated using the following prices: a gold price of US$1,500 per ounce, a copper price of US$3.00 per pound, a molybdenum price of US$7.00 per pound and a silver price of US$18.00 per ounce.

Quality Assurance

All Lumina sample assay results have been independently monitored through a quality control / quality assurance ("QA/QC") program that includes the insertion of blind standards, blanks and pulp and reject duplicate samples. Logging and sampling are completed at Lumina's secure facility located at the Cangrejos Project. Drill core is sawn in half on site and half drill-core samples are securely transported to Bureau Veritas Labs' (BV) sample preparation facility in Quito, Ecuador. Sample pulps are sent to BV's chemical lab in Lima, Peru for analysis. Gold content is determined by fire assay of a 30 gram charge with total copper content determined by four-acid digestion with ICP finish. BV Labs is independent from Lumina.

Lumina is not aware of any drilling, sampling, recovery or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data referred to herein.

Qualified Persons

Leo Hathaway, P.Geo., Senior Vice President of Lumina and the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for the Cangrejos Project has reviewed, verified and approved the contents of this news release and has verified the data underlying the contents of this news release.

About Lumina Gold

Lumina Gold Corp. (TSXV: LUM) is a Vancouver, Canada based precious and base metals exploration and development company focused on the Cangrejos Gold-Copper Project located in El Oro Province, southwest Ecuador. Lumina has an experienced management team with a successful track record of advancing and monetizing exploration projects.

LUMINA GOLD CORP.

Signed: "Marshall Koval"

Marshall Koval, President & CEO, Director

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Further details are available on the Company's website at https://luminagold.com/.

To receive future news releases please sign up at https://luminagold.com/contact.

SOURCE Lumina Gold Corp.
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI/NewsVoir): In recent years, an increasing number of Indians have given up their citizenship. Government officials said over 100,000 Indians surrendered their citizenship in the first nine months of 2021, and more than 600,000 Indians renounced their citizenship over the last five years. Reports also indicate that many of those renouncing their Indian citizenship are high-net-worth individuals. Currently, India stands at the top of Morgan Stanley's 'Exodus in the World' list, reporting that around 35,000 Indian entrepreneurs of high net worth left between 2014-2020. Although the reason for a large number of Indians surrendering their citizenship was not stated by officials, in 2018, the Ministry of Home Affairs revised the declaration of renunciation of citizenship form for the first time to include a column on "circumstances/reasons due to which applicant intends to acquire foreign citizenship and renounce Indian citizenship". "Majority of Indians, especially those who want to do business internationally, renounce their citizenship or leave their country because of the privileges they get under citizenships of other countries, especially those with strong global mobility options that prioritise safety, security, cleanliness and a healthy environment," says Paul Singh. Singh is the Director of CS Global Partners, the world's leading government advisory and marketing firm that specialises in assisting second citizenship seekers with solutions through citizenship by investment. Where once citizenship was limited to countries that individuals had a connection to, it has become increasingly common to invest in a country's economy in exchange for citizenship. These initiatives, known as citizenship by investment programmes, can be found in over a dozen countries across the globe and have become a trusted route to a second citizenship. "Canada, Australia, the UAE and Singapore have long been hotspots for professional Non-resident Indians (NRIs)," said Singh. "But these countries have either long residency or citizenship processes or high investment thresholds that impose limits on time-poor individuals." A nation rising in popularity as a second citizenship solution for Indians, Singh says, is the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis. The country is located in the Lesser Antilles in the Eastern Caribbean region and is a member of the British Commonwealth. Its stable political climate has enabled it to maintain membership in various regional and international organisations, including the United Nations. Moreover, in terms of population and geographical size, the Federation is the smallest sovereign state in the Americas. The St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Programme was founded in 1984 and is the world's oldest. It is globally recognised and respected and has its legal foundations in the Constitution of the country. Through St Kitts and Nevis' second citizenship programme, the government focuses on enabling fluent direct foreign investment into real estate endeavours and funds for national growth. In 2021, the Financial Times's PWM magazine appointed St Kitts and Nevis as the best CBI Programmes in the world. The report highlighted: "St Kitts and Nevis once again leads the Citizenship Timeline pillar by virtue of its Accelerated Application Process, which offers citizenship to qualifying applicants within a maximum of 60 days and, under certain circumstances, as little as 45 days. For applicants who do not want to pay a premium, St Kitts and Nevis' standard route has an average processing time of three months." Those who pass the necessary due diligence checks can contribute to the country's government fund and become exempt from bureaucratic delays at borders of almost 75 per cent of the world, a feat highly beneficial to traders and entrepreneurs interested in growing their business in economic hubs like Europe, Asia and Africa. The eastern Caribbean regional currency is also pegged to the US dollar, making St Kitts and Nevis an attractive second citizenship option. "Imagine having real global mobility where it's the case of jumping on a plane to a meeting in Germany, having a romantic weekend in Paris and visiting your child at boarding school in London... Second citizenship is a much-needed tool," said Singh. Additionally, applicants are not required to pass any language tests or even travel to St Kitts and Nevis during or after their short citizenship process. The Programme also has a packaged contribution for families, ensuring children have more opportunities to choose the best international schools for a brighter future. "Holding alternative citizenship, once seen as a luxury, has become a necessity for those wanting to look outside the boundaries of their home country. This is particularly true for wealthy Indians with a more global outlook, who know first-hand how citizenship can act as an obstacle to living the life you desire," Singh added. Additional benefits of St Kitts and Nevis citizenship include: -Transferable Citizenship with a lifetime validity-Full residence status, including the right to live and work-St Kitts and Nevis citizenship program allows a second passport without the need to give up any existing citizenship-No residency requirement before or after the grant of the second citizenship-A stable and straightforward investment opportunity in a democratic country-Opportunities to work and live in various Caribbean countries-No need to travel or reside while your citizenship by investment application is in process or you have received it-Asset management and protection by means of trusts and offshore companies-Excellent airlines connection with various major countries worldwide-Lifestyle benefits include a pleasant climate and unspoiled natural environment-Tropical climate characterised by cooling trade-winds CS Global Partners specialises in citizenship solutions for high-net-worth individuals. Headquartered in London, UK, the firm consists of a team of experts that has helped countless individuals and their families find their perfect second citizenship. The firm offers personalised advice to clients and ensures that every step of the application process runs smoothly. CS Global Partners' ensures that their clients are afforded the highest quality of efficient and effective service through one-on-one interactions with legal professionals. Their established professional working relationships with real estate developers, bankers and all relevant Citizenship by Investment Units contribute to the outstanding quality of service that they provide to their clientele. Through second citizenship in countries like St Kitts and Nevis, successful clients grow their wealth, gain security, and offer their children a better future filled with unlimited opportunities. This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir)
A US lawmaker has slammed China for choosing the People's Liberation Army's regimental commander, involved in the Galwan valley clash as a torchbearer for Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Torch Relay. China's People's Liberation Army's regimental commander, who had suffered severe injuries during the Galwan clash, became the torchbearer at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Torch Relay on Wednesday. "It's shameful that Beijing chose a torchbearer for the Olympics2022 who's part of the military command that attacked India in 2020 and is implementing genocide against the Uyghurs. The US will continue to support Uyghur freedoms and the sovereignty of India," said Senator Jim Risch, a Republican who is a Ranking Member of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Qi Fabao, the regimental commander who suffered a serious head injury during the Galwan Valley border skirmish on June 15, 2020, took the flame from China's four-time Olympic short track speed skating champion, at Winter Olympic Park, State media outlet Global Times reported on Wednesday. This came as a report revealed that China is hiding its losses in the Galwan Valley clash with India. The new research has shown that the PLA lost at least nine times more soldiers than its official count of four. At least 38 PLA troops drowned while crossing a fast-flowing, sub-zero river in darkness, according to an article in the Australian newspaper 'The Klaxon' which cited a report prepared by a group of social media researchers after a year-long investigation. Of the four soldiers China has confirmed died, only one-- Junior Sergeant Wang Zhuoran-- is reported as having drowned, the investigative newspaper said. The report cited "several Weibo users" and said, "at least 38 PLA troops along with Wang were washed away and drowned that night...of which only Wang was declared among the four officially dead soldiers." The report cited a year-long investigation involving discussions with mainland Chinese bloggers, information obtained from mainland-based Chinese citizens and media reports that have since been deleted by Chinese authorities. (ANI)
The travel landscape has been nothing short of unpredictable over the past two years. As we enter a new year, variables remain  from changing government regulations to emerging variants. The good news, however, is that 81% of travelers plan to take at least one vacation with family and friends in the next six months, according to the latest findings from the Expedia Group Traveler Value Index: 2022 Outlook, which surveyed 5,500 adults in eight global markets.

To help our advertising partners develop the strategies in response to the shifting travel behavior we continue to see, weve highlighted 2022 industry trends across a variety of segments identified through data and insights from 300 petabytes of Expedia Group first-party data and custom research.

Below we explore some of the top trends that lodging providers can expect to see in 2022.

1. Travelers Extending Business Trips for Leisure

Bleisure tripsextending a work trip for leisure, or vice versarose to popularity years before the pandemic, and are increasingly making a comeback as business travel returns. During the pandemic, weve seen a new twist on bleisure with flexcations, a trend we expect to see continue into 2022. The research shows that 56% of those who often work remotely will take a bleisure trip in the next six months. Recent data from Vrbo also points to families continuing to take flexcations in 2022, with searches for 21- to 30day stays on the platform having increased by 68%.

As lodging providers develop their marketing strategies and campaigns, its important to continue leaning into the flexcation trend by offering extended-stay deals and highlighting important amenities for travelers working remotely, such as business services or free Wi-Fi.

2. Travelers Prioritizing Discounts and Promotions

Earlier research showed that the means to book travel for a reasonable price is regarded as essentialin fact, a standard expectationalongside hotel promotions that are resonating most with travelers. According to the latest Traveler Value Index findings, leisure travelers top three ranked promotions when booking a hotel stay online are lower rates for booking early, considered 4 to 12 weeks ahead of travel (52%), getting a lower cost by booking a flight and hotel package (44%), and receiving a free amenity (41%). These discounts are particularly popular in Europe, especially with French and German travelers. Also, nearly 2 in 5 consumers saved loyalty points during the pandemic, and in the upcoming year, 40% plan to pay for all or part of a trip using these points.

Adding promotions proved successful for South Koreas Amber Hotel Jeju, which incorporated a free airport shuttle offering and restaurant discount promotion within a TravelAds Sponsored Listing to drive awareness of its newly renovated property. Even at a time when the market and its competitors experienced a dip, Amber Hotel Jeju saw strong room night demand from the campaign and continues to use customized copy in its sponsored listings to fill rooms and remain almost fully occupied.

3. Travelers Seeking Sustainable, Meaningful Experiences

As travel began its rebound, we saw the importance of sustainability emerge at the forefront of conversations. An increasing number of travelers are looking to minimize impact to the environment  even when doing so means spending more. In fact, 59% of travelers are willing to pay additional fees to make their trip more sustainable.

Beyond common sustainability considerationssuch as limiting single-use plastic items or reducing how often sheets or towels are replaced during a staytravelers are becoming more aware of the social and cultural implications of travel. Nearly half (49%) said they would choose a less crowded destination to reduce effects of overtourism; as a result, well continue to see the rise of secondary cities. For example, secondary cities in several U.S. states, including Ohio, New York State, and Alaska, doubled in vacation rental demand year-over-year, according to Vrbo data. Travelers also seek experiences that allow them to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and experiences. Of the American travelers seeking their GOAT trip in 2022 (aka their Greatest of All Trips), 40% will try new foods. This is an opportunity for lodging providers in both emerging destinations and major metropolitan cities to highlight local culture, cuisine, and authentic experiences.

Iberostar Group is educating and inspiring travelers around its commitment to its local communities and environment, particularly the oceans, through its Discover Iberostar campaign. The interactive campaign features stunning images and thoughtfully curated information designed to inspire people to make more informed decisions on how they travel, and prompt them to consider their impact on destinations.

What 2022 will bring remains to be seen, so the ability to adapt your marketing strategies and channels continues to be critical in the competitive marketplace. Our suite of solutions can help you activate your marketing strategy based on the latest traveler insights. If youre ready to get started, try our TravelAds Sponsored Listings, download the full Traveler Value Index: 2022 Outlook, or contact us to speak with a digital media consultant, so that we can help identify the right strategies and tools to action these trends and achieve your objectives.

Download the Report.

About Expedia Group Media Solutions

Expedia Group Media Solutions is a global travel advertising platform that connects marketers with hundreds of millions of travelers across the Expedia Group brands. With our exclusive access to more than 70 petabytes of Expedia Group traveler search and booking data, we offer advertisers actionable insights, sophisticated targeting, and full-funnel results reporting. Our suite of solutions includes display, sponsored listings, audience extension, co-op campaigns, and custom creative campaigns  all designed to deliver on the objectives of our advertising partners and add value for travel shoppers on our branded sites globally. With a consultative approach and more than 20 years of travel and media experience, we help our advertising partners inspire, engage, and convert travelers for meaningful results. For more information, visit www.advertising.expedia.com.

 2022 Expedia, Inc., an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved. Trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners. CST: 2029030-50

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Having served over three decades in the hotel industry, and almost 20 at Omni Hotels and Resorts, Smith is a seasoned hospitality veteran and passionate leader. Smith was most recently general manager for Omni Frisco Hotel, and area managing director. In his new role with Omni PGA Frisco Resort, he will be the primary, strategic business leader, responsible for all aspects of the complex and the resort's operation, as well as leading the executive committee members in the development and implementation of property-wide and brand service strategies and implementation.

Smith has served in numerous leadership capacities throughout his career with Omni Hotels & Resorts, including area managing director, vice president of operations, and corporate director of rooms.

"Jeff joined Omni in 1994 and in that time has proven himself to be a service-driven leader, exemplifying our culture through his high energy, engaging style, and passion for mentoring talent," Peter Strebel, president at Omni Hotels & Resorts. "Jeff is established and beloved in the Dallas and Frisco communities, and we are confident he will build a strong team and lead them to a highly successful opening."

"After having a variety of roles and leadership positions throughout my career at Omni, it is an honor to be leading such a significant milestone for the brand with the opening of Omni PGA Frisco Resort," said Smith. "With the launch of sales and upcoming topping off ceremony, it's an exciting time for the brand and our growing property team."

Smith attended Michigan State University, where he earned a BA in business administration with a major in hospitality management. He also has an MBA from Rockhurst College. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Emy, and their two children, Daniel and Anna Maria, traveling, being outdoors, and anything to do with Michigan State University.
Born in Somali and now living in the UK, she now campaigns to stop the practice

Hibo Wardere was only six when she became a victim of genital mutilation

A survivor of Female Genital Mutilation has been praised for her 'incredible bravery' after appearing on ITV Lorraine's this morning.

Hibo Wardere, was just six when she was subject to the abusive procedure at the hands of her mother and aunt, while living in Somalia.

Now living in the UK, she has dedicated her life to campaigning for awareness of FGM, with viewers branding the mother-of-seven 'inspirational'.

Speaking to Lorraine Kelly, she explained how there are 140,000 women living with the effect of FGM in the UK.

'It's cruel, it's beyond words, it's something that stays with you for the rest of your life. You've been given a life sentence stamp that day that happens to you,' she explained.

Hibo Wardere, was just six when she was subject to the abusive procedure at the hands of her mother and aunt, while living in Somalia. Now living in the UK, she has dedicated her life to campaigning for awareness of FGM, with viewers branding the mother-of-seven 'inspirational'.

'It's there, it's part of your life, you can't get away with it, in your soul.

'In my community it's done to preserve virginity. They take away your clitoris so you don't have sexual urges, they seal you up and leave you with tiny hole so you don't even dream of having sex. It's all about preserving you for your future husband'.

She went on to explain how her mother and aunt did the procedure due as it's a 'social norm' and it wasn't coming from a place of abuse.

'For them, its about preserving your future.

'It's about being in that setting where all the girls' are cut. If you're the only mum that hasn't cut your girl, people will say you're not going to get married.

'It's not coming from a place of abuse, it's a social norm. It affects you in every single part of you

Speaking to Lorraine Kelly, she explained how there are 140,000 women living with the effect of FGM in the UK.

The mother-of-seven also touched on the agony of the procedure, and how it damages women when they give birth.

'Your labia is designed to help you when you are having a child, it expands when you have a baby.

What's the law on FGM in the UK? Female genital mutilation has been a specific offence in the UK since the Prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985. The 1985 Act was replaced by the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003. It now includes assisting and taking children abroad to be cut. There have been just three other trials involving FGM - two in London and one in Bristol - which all ended in acquittals while some 298 prevention orders have been put in place to safeguard children at risk. Carrying out FGM currently carries a maximum prison sentence of 14 years. Advertisement

'I don't have a labia it can't expand.

'I live in the UK, so I'm very lucky, but people living in developing countries, the death rate, is so high so women delivering babies'.

But Hibo was keen to articulate that the problem is happening in the UK too.

More than 200 cases of FGM were performed on women and girls born in the UK between April 2019 and March 2020.

Some 6,590 women and girls had a procedure to treat their FGM or were identified as having experienced FGM previously on the NHS in that time period.

Of these, 205 were women or girls who had been born in the UK, according to an annual report from NHS Digital.

FGM, the intentional altering or injuring of the female genitals for non-medical reasons, has been illegal in the UK for more than three decades.

The law was strengthened in 2003 to prevent girls travelling from the UK and undergoing FGM abroad.

'It's happening here, on our doorstep, a lot of people don't want to know about it,' Hibo said.

'These are British children that have a right to be protected.

'Its about time we talk about it, it's in abuse, if we don't talk about abuse it thrives in secrecy, we have to be brave and bold about it.

'It's the worst form of child abuse, you can't put religion of race on it, whoever it is happening to its child abuse, you have to leave your comfort zone, you have to have a humanity anger.

She added that 'education is the biggest tool' in stopping the practice, which is done 'by people of all faiths'.

Hibo's appearance was praised by viewers, with one writing: 'Brilliant as always'.

Hibo's appearance was praised by viewers, with one writing: 'Brilliant as always'.

Another said: 'It was an incredible segment on #FGM on Lorraine by Hibo Wardere. Incredibly passionate and knowledgeable.'

A third wrote: 'Such an important discussion about ending #FGM on @lorraine this morning. Thank you to @HiboWardere for sharing your story, raising awareness and helping to save the lives of women and young girls.'

One added: ' What a inspirational speaker. So passionate. I want to help where I can. This must stop..'

Another said: 'I admire this woman.

While one wrote: 'What a remarkable woman. FGM is abuse. It needs brave people like her to come forward and stop these young girls being abused. It's time for change. Safeguarding and protecting these girls needs requires change now.'
Thank you for reading!

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Despite these perpetually fractious times, nearly everyone on the left and right agrees that COVID-19 has profoundly negative effects on our K-12 students. For students, school closures are associated with learning disruptions, social development issues and depression.

Closed schools affect parents, our economy and health care capacity as well. For those without child care options, it often means loss of hours, and even jobs, adding further stressors to household life. This cant continue. All of us need to take what weve learned over the past couple of years and implement what we know works using the resources already allocated to turn this situation around.

To date, massive amounts of federal funding have been provided to address COVID's impact on education and learning. Two administrations  one under President Donald Trump and one under President Joe Biden  have repeatedly, and in a bipartisan manner, authorized billions of dollars in aid for K-12 remediation efforts.

Thousands of schools closed for in-person learning

Yet, today we find skyrocketing numbers of new cases in communities across the USA, and thousands of schools are closed for in-person learning.

In the American Rescue Plan, the federal government authorized $122 billion for Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), with 90% tied directly to local K-12 districts.

Former U.S. Surgeon General: I got it wrong on masks at the start of the pandemic. This is how we can get it right.

Disclosure requirement data is showing that of the more than $64 billion accounted for, covering more than 2,700 districts in over 45 states, less than 20% of districts have planned spending directly on COVID-19 mitigation.

Don't assume closures are inevitable

A significant amount went to ameliorating the effects of closures, though not preventing the closures in the first place: remote learning, tutoring, and afterschool and summer school programs.

These offerings try to address the problems for students after the fact; they assume closures are inevitable rather than treating the closures themselves as the events to be avoided.

Story continues

In the early months of the pandemic, the focus on recovery and rehabilitation strategies were understandable. But as we enter this third year, weve had plenty of time and experience to know how to get this right. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Biden administration are coalescing around the most effective way to keep schools open, and that is by implementing "Test to Stay protocols.

The World Health Organization: COVID-19 has shown sustainable financing of WHO is needed to deliver health for all

Here, in alignment with the CDC recommendations, students and staff are routinely tested if they have been directly exposed to those known to have COVID-19. Along the way, contact tracing is being conducted to track the movement of the virus. Those who test negative are allowed back into the classroom, while those who test positive start the timer on self-isolation.

Going into class in Greenfield, Ind., in 2020.

This is a resource-intensive process and will require a massive increase in the availability of testing locations and home testing kits  to levels comparable to those in the United Kingdom and the European Union. There, testing is readily available and free in some countries for all who request them.

2 billion COVID tests a month

I believe we need up to 2 billion tests per month for the American public to fully embrace this critical public health tool. Building and encouraging a testing mindset will enable Americans to identify infections, and isolate themselves from the transmission pool and help keep schools and workplaces open. This effort will require significant staffing and resources, which can be addressed by drawing upon the federal government relief allocations already funded and on hand in state government coffers. Companies like mine, AM LLC, work with officials and agencies to help coordinate and administer large-scale testing operations.

But federal, state and local governments arent equipped to manage this new work themselves. The private sector, including the health care and the disease management industry, have already partnered with jurisdictions and governments around the country to help.

Dr. Marc Siegel: Isolating from a world filled with omicron makes less and less sense

Significant federal resources have been allocated so that those localities and K-12 districts that cannot conduct effective programs like Test to Stay with existing staff can hire experienced partners that can get the testing done  as well as provide vaccinations, contract tracing and advise all levels of government on best COVID mitigation practices.

As a society, we are again faced with making tough decisions that will have long-lasting consequences  especially over the struggle to keep our schools open  which Biden has vocally supported.

Keeping schools open must be our priority. We can do it safely and responsibly as we implement robust measures that will prevent more infections, deaths and closures. Reimagining how the public and private sectors come together to solve these public health challenges is the key to putting this pandemic behind us.

Dr. Robert R. Redfield Jr. is the senior medical adviser at AM LLC, a public health firm working with K-12 schools and federal, state and local health departments. He was the former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2018-21.

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Keeping schools open safely and responsibly must be our priority
By Trend

A number of events were held in the Azerbaijani army on the occasion of February 2, the National Youth Day in Azerbaijan, Trend reports citing the country's Defense Ministry.

Speakers emphasized that the solemn celebration of the National Youth Day is associated with the name of the great leader Heydar Aliyev. They also noted that after the return of the national leader to the leadership of the country, he laid the foundation for the state youth policy in Azerbaijan, which is now successfully continued by the Azerbaijani President, Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev.

At the events, creative teams of the Army Ideological and Cultural Center named after Hazi Aslanov and the Ideological and Cultural Center of the Ganja garrison, as well as regional departments of culture, performed interesting concert programs for the personnel.
Breaking Bread opens with a quote from Anthony Bourdain, who said that food may not be the answer to world peace, but its a start. The premise underlying this documentary, directed by Beth Elise Hawk, is that all cultures can unite over the spectacle of mouthwatering food on camera.

The movie follows preparations for the 2017 A-Sham Festival in Haifa, Israel, an event that celebrates the cuisine of a region where geopolitical boundaries are more defined than culinary ones. At the films start, the festivals founder, Dr. Nof Atamna-Ismaeel, identifies herself as a Muslim, an Arab, an Israeli, a Palestinian, a woman, a scientist and a cook (she won the Israeli version of MasterChef a few years ago). She says in the film that borders mean nothing to hummus.
Renowned Slovak mountaineer talks transcendental experiences in new film.

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The Himalayas and mountains taught me humility, which for me means an acknowledgement of, and respect for, universally valid principles such as gravity and balance, Zoltan Demjan says in the opening scene of the film Dhaulagiri Is My Everest.

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As the world-renowned Slovak climber cooks his favourite Nepalese meal, dal bhat, on a wood range in the cosy, warm, kitchen, at his weekend cottage in Zazriva, he talks about his expeditions in the snow-covered Himalayas and what he learned from them.

Demjan climbed Alpine style - which famous Italian mountaineer Reinhold Messner described as climbing by fair means, i.e. carrying all food, shelter and equipment as you climb, and without fixed ropes, supplemental oxygen, nor mountain guides.

Read in this story What a transcendental experience did Zoltan Demjan experienced during descent of Dhaulagiri

What he thinks about his achievements in the Himalayas

What were his switches in career

In the one-hour documentary film by award-winning Slovak documentary filmmaker Pavol Barabas, which premiered in mid-January, having already won Grand Prix as well as the audience award at the Poprad International Festival of Mountain Films in October 2021, Demjan explains what is so important to him about the style.

The Alpine style is an amazing school for clean living, says Demjan, 66.

Nothing is a coincidence

Demjan has climbed three of what are known in the climbing world as eight-thousanders i.e. peaks over 8,000 metres: Lhotse Shar (8,383 m) in 1984, Mt. Everest (8,848 m) in the same year, and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) in 1988. He scaled all three as first ascents and without the aid of supplementary oxygen.
Seoul, Feb 3 : South Korea's ICT Ministry on Thursday said it has required tech giants Google, Meta Platforms and Netflix, as well as local rivals Naver and Kakao, to comply with the country's revised law requiring them to provide stable services.

In 2020, South Korea passed a legal revision holding online content service providers accountable if they fail to maintain stable services amid growing complaints against streaming giants Netflix and Google after their services experienced outages.

The revised law, informally dubbed the "Netflix law" in the country, applies to online service companies that account for 1 per cent or more of the country's average daily data traffic in the last three months of the previous year and that have more than 1 million daily users.

Local streaming platform Wavve has been excluded from the regulation this year as its average traffic fell short of 1 million daily users.

The ministry said it has notified the five companies and will finalize the designation within this month after consultations with the companies.

The ministry said global tech giants made up a significant portion of the country's daily data traffic in the final three months of 2021, with Google accounting for a whopping 27.1 per cent, followed by Netflix at 7.2 per cent and Meta at 3.5 per cent.

Among local companies, top portal operator Naver held the top spot at 2.1 per cent, followed by rival Kakao at 1.2 per cent, reports Yonhap news agency.

The five companies accounted for a total of 41.1 per cent of the country's average daily traffic over the period.
As many as 32,671 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 were recorded in the last 24 hours in Romania, 3,131 fewer than the previous day, with over 102,000 tests performed RT-PCR and rapid antigenic, the Strategic Communication Group informed on Thursday, Agerpres reports.

Of the new cases, 3,308 were in re-infected patients who tested positive more than 180 days after the first time they went through the disease.Most of the newly confirmed COVID-19 cases in Romania since the previous reporting were recorded in Bucharest City - 5,303, and in the counties of and the counties of Cluj - 2,595; Timis - 1,944; Constanta - 1,653; Prahova - 1,620; Iasi - 1,263; Hunedoara - 1,149; Sibiu - 1,102 and Dolj - 1,084.As of Thursday, 2,325,016 cases of people infected with the novel coronavirus were confirmed in Romania of which 62,871 are in re-infected patients, tested positive more than 180 days after the first infection.- Hospitalisations -As many as 10,719 people with COVID-19, up 281 from the previous reporting, including 849 children, are hospitalised in Romania at specialist care facilities.Out of the total number of hospitalised patients, 993 patients, including 20 children, are in intensive care, 20 more than one day before.Of the 993 patients admitted to ICU, 840 are unvaccinated.As many as 1,961,511 patients were declared cured.- Deaths -According to GCS, another 111 Romanians infected with SARS-CoV-2 - 59 men and 52 women - are reported dead in the last 24 hours.Out of the 111 patients who died, 85 were unvaccinated and 26 vaccinated. The age range of the vaccinated deceased patients was 40 to 49 to 80 years. As many as 25 of the deaths were in patients with comorbidities, and one patient did not have comorbidities.Since the beginning of the pandemic, 60,353 people diagnosed with the SARS-CoV-2 infection have died in Romania.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/kremlin-slams-rt-de-ban-in-germany-as-infringement-on-freedom-of-speech-1092712941.html

Kremlin Slams RT DE Ban in Germany as 'Infringement' on Freedom of Speech

Kremlin Slams RT DE Ban in Germany as 'Infringement' on Freedom of Speech

Earlier, German media regulator MABB officially banned broadcasts by RT DE in Germany, claiming that the broadcast organisers did not have the necessary... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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Kremlin is concerned about the situation with RT DE in Germany and sees it as an infringement on freedom of speech, Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said."We can only regret in this regard," he added.Earlier in the day, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that Russia will announce retaliatory measures against German media on Thursday.On Wednesday, German media regulator MABB banned broadcasts by RT DE in Germany, claiming that the broadcast organizers did not have the necessary permission. RT DE operation in Germany has been terminated across all platforms, including Internet, mobile applications or smart TV applications, and satellites.The launch of RT DE has been surrounded by controversy in the European Union. In August, RT DE was refused a broadcasting license in Luxembourg after reportedly receiving some data from the German authorities. In September, YouTube removed two RT DE channels without the right of recovery for alleged "violations of community rules."

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A police corporal who allegedly demanded $2,000 from a businessman for him to be able to con
Wilkes-Barre, PA (18701)

Today

Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 58F. Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 43F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Acting Gov. Joshua Tenorio on Thursday signed into law Bill 230 authorizing the use of $10 million in local funds to pay World War II survivors and their descendants who missed the 2018 deadline on a federal war claims program.

Tenorio remarked that many survivors ran into issues with filing applications, which they were unaware of until war claims checks arrived in 2019.

Some of these manamko signed these forms but submitted to the wrong place. They trusted other people to pass it on, he said. Other people thought that testimonies that they had written and submitted to various different officials were adequate.

Public Law

With Public Law 36-73 now in effect, the committee responsible for reviewing war claims will meet in the coming weeks to iron out guidelines for the application process, Tenorio said. The law allows for a 12-month window for claimants to apply and requires the review committee to send out an announcement within 30 days of the approaching deadline.

During the signing, Speaker Therese Terlaje acknowledged that the law pays survivors with money from the government of Guams coffers and not the federal government  a contentious point for some members of the Legislature.

Its not true justice. However, were going to do for our manamko what we can do today, and we will not give up on seeking justice from where justice truly should be sought, she said.

Members

Several members have been appointed to the war claims adjudication committee, including former senator George Bamba and Joey Franquez, representing the governors office on behalf of the public. Guam Museum Curator Michael Bevacqua will sit on the committee for the Commission on Decolonization. The law also calls for the speaker or a designee, along with Mayors Council of Guam President and Piti Mayor Jesse Alig or his designee to sit on the board.

Breakdown

The program will pay:

$25,000 to descendants of those who died during the occupation or liberation of Guam, or the descendants of survivors, provided the survivor was alive on Dec. 23, 2016.

$10,000 to $15,000 will go to war survivors who were injured or forced to march during World War II.

Road weight increase

Tenorio also signed Public Law 36-74, to increase road weight limits for commercial trucks along Routes 1, 8, 11 and 16.Reach reporter Joe Taitano II at JTaitano@guampdn.com.
Former Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke was released from state prison just after midnight Thursday after serving a little more than three years behind bars for the 2014 murder of Laquan McDonald, a shooting that roiled the city and has left a mixed legacy of reform.

The secrecy surrounding Van Dykes incarceration lasted up until his final hours behind bars, with state prison officials refusing to disclose where or exactly when he was being released. A spokesperson for Gov. J.B. Pritzker told the Tribune that as of 10 a.m. Thursday, Van Dyke was no longer in IDOC custody but provided no further details.

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Thursday afternoon, after repeated efforts to contact the Illinois Department of Corrections, a spokeswoman for the agency said Van Dyke had been released about 12:15 a.m. Thursday from the minimum-security Taylorville Correctional Center near Springfield.

Van Dyke still must serve three years of supervised release, which is Illinois version of parole.

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Mayor Lori Lightfoot issued a statement early Thursday on Van Dykes impending exit from prison.

I know some Chicagoans remain disheartened and angry about Jason Van Dykes sentence for the murder of Laquan McDonald. As I said at the time, while the jury reached the correct guilty verdict, the judges decision to sentence Van Dyke to only 81 months was and remains a supreme disappointment, the statement read. I understand why this continues to feel like a miscarriage of justice, especially when many Black and brown men get sentenced to so much more prison time for having committed far lesser crimes. Its these distortions in the criminal justice system, historically, that have made it so hard to build trust.

Lightfoots statement said the Chicago Police Department and the city have made progress on the reform effort since the killing. Experts, critics and other observers have been critical, though, of the pace of those changes.

This prosecution led to historic reforms, including comprehensive legislation that created the first-ever community police oversight body in Chicago, and a consent decree to oversee CPD reform, Lightfoot said. There is much more work to do, and it is by doing that work that we can heal from this and move forward towards justice and accountability every day.

Since his January 2019 sentencing, Van Dyke has served time at a downstate prison, a federal detention center in Connecticut, and at an undisclosed location as part of an interstate agreement where high-profile prisoners can be kept off databases of inmates available to the public online.

The Illinois Department of Corrections has for the past two years declined to say where Van Dyke was being held for safety and security purposes. But a two-page release order from the Prisoner Review Board, the government agency responsible for scheduling a prisoners supervised release program, stated Van Dyke had been at the Taylorville facility as of September 2021 when the order was signed.

While word of the ex-officers release caught many by surprise, Van Dyke was expected all along to leave custody in February 2022. Judge Vincent Gaughan sentenced him on the second-degree murder conviction  not his aggravated battery convictions  meaning Van Dyke was likely to serve only about half of his 81-month sentence.

Jason Van Dyke is escorted into the courtroom at the Leighton Criminal Court Building on Dec. 14, 2018. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Van Dyke must now complete his term of mandatory supervised release, Illinois version of parole. The only requirement marked on the review boards form was that he participate in a cognitive behavioral therapy program, a common measure aimed at reducing recidivism.

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Van Dykes release comes as Black leaders, as well as Illinois two Democratic senators, continue to pressure the U.S. Justice Department over a federal civil rights probe into the McDonald killing that ended quietly after Van Dyke was convicted in state court of second-degree murder and aggravated battery with a firearm. Van Dyke, who is white, was captured on police video shooting the Black teenager 16 times as he walked away from police with a knife.

On Tuesday, the president of the national chapter of the NAACP sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland saying the lack of resolution in the federal case, coupled with Van Dykes pending release, was clearly alarming to the Black community.

We trust that you find the matters alarming as well and join with us in our call for closure of that federal grand jury investigation, wrote NAACP President Derrick Johnson. He also asked for Garlands commitment in moving forward with appropriate and applicable federal charges based on the evidence.

Hours later, Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth penned a letter of their own noting that the state conviction does not preclude the filing of federal charges, citing the recent cases against Minneapolis police Officer Derek Chauvin, who was charged in both jurisdictions with the May 2020 murder of George Floyd.

We urge the Justice Department to carefully and expeditiously complete its investigation, the senators letter concluded.

A Justice Department spokesperson said the department has received the letters and will review the information, but declined further comment.

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A spokesman for U.S. Attorney John Lausch declined to comment.

When asked Tuesday whether she would support bringing federal charges against Van Dyke, States Attorney Kim Foxx said she was not in a position to give federal prosecutors direction. But Van Dykes sentence was not appropriate given the seriousness of the crime he committed, she said. If he had been sentenced on his aggravated battery convictions, he would have faced a far longer term, and he would have had to serve more than half of it.

I would suggest and hope and pray ... that any and all those who have the power to make sure that theres accountability for the death of Laquan McDonald do everything thats in their power to hold him accountable, said Foxx, whose office did not handle Van Dykes prosecution.

The sentence put down for Jason Van Dyke does not meet the crime, and if theres an ability to do something about it on the federal level then by all means something should be done.

Though there is no statute of limitations to bring a civil rights case involving a fatality, the Tribune reported earlier this week it would be exceedingly rare for the U.S. attorneys office to charge Van Dyke now, more than three years after his conviction in state court.

Records show that just days after Van Dyke was sentenced in Cook County Criminal Court in January 2019, federal prosecutors told a federal judge in a search warrant application that the federal grand jury probe was winding down.

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Last week, several prominent Black leaders cited the case against Chauvin, who was charged in state court and federally with Floyds death, in renewing calls for the U.S. Department of Justice to go after Van Dyke.

Blagg, one of Van Dykes attorneys, told the Tribune last week justice isnt served in the court of public opinion, justice is handed out in a courtroom.

Jurors heard Jasons case. A judge gave Jason his sentence. And even if you dont agree with it, you have to appreciate the long-term consequences of what youre arguing for, she said. Arguing that someone should be charged by the feds because you dont agree with the judges sentencing decision could have far-reaching consequences in our society.

McDonalds grandmother and aunt have joined activists in the call for Van Dyke to be charged federally, but his great-uncle, the Rev. Marvin Hunter, told the Tribune most of the family does not support further charges.

Charging Van Dyke twice for the same set of actions could set a bad precedent, Hunter said.

I am not an advocate for Jason Van Dyke, he has not asked for forgiveness  but am I going to live my life harboring hate? Hunter said. The answer is no. I dont. And my family dont.

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If politicians and activists wanted to help, they should have supported state Attorney General Kwame Raouls 2019 effort at the state Supreme Court to reexamine the sentence Gaughan handed down  instead of pushing for Van Dyke to be imprisoned again for something separate, Hunter said.

If a man serves his time, he needs to be freed, Hunter said. If were going to be a civilized society we must follow the doggone laws and have them work for everybody the right way.

jmeisner@chicagotribune.com

mcrepeau@chicagotribune.com
He confirmed that this was the main theme of talks held by Russias Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk and the head of Russian Railways (RZD) state monopoly, Oleg Belozerov, in Yerevan on Wednesday. They met with Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigorian.

We are very close to registering the first practical results of the trilateral [Russian-Armenian-Azerbaijani] working group on opening regional communication routes, Pashinian said, commenting on the talks at the start of a weekly session of his cabinet.

We are already discussing defining technical specifications and designing and financing [the project] and starting construction, he added without going into details.

The planned 45-kilometer railway will connect Azerbaijan to its Nakhichevan exclave through Armenias Syunik province. The Armenian government set up last month a task force that will coordinate its construction, which is expected to cost about $200 million.

The head of the task force, Artashes Tumanian, was also present at Grigorians meeting with the visiting Russian officials.

Yesterdays meeting was very practical indeed, Tumanian told Pashinian. The Russian side presented its vision.

Grigorian said, for his part, that the Armenian side will closely cooperate with Russian Railways in implementing the railway project. He argued that the Russian operator manages Armenias railway network, called the South Caucasus Railway (SRC), and has ample experience in railway construction.

It remained unclear when work on the Syunik railway will start. Nor did Pashinian and Grigorian say whether the construction will be financed by the Armenian government, Russian Railways or international donors.

Neither Grigorians office nor the SRC could be reached for comment.
IAMGOLD's Recent Statements Include Self-Serving Falsehoods and Mischaracterizations

RCF Calls on the Board to Listen to its Shareholders, Re-Engage with RCF and Stop Wasting Valuable Time and Money when the Focus Must be on an Urgently Needed Operational Turnaround

TORONTO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Resource Capital Fund VII L.P. ("RCF VII"), a fund managed by RCF Management L.L.C. ("RCFM" and together with RCF VII, "RCF"), owning approximately 5.2% of the issued and outstanding common shares ("IAG Shares") of IAMGOLD Corporation ("IAMGOLD") (TSX: IMG) ( NYSE: IAG), today reaffirmed its commitment to transformational change at IAMGOLD and putting aside its differences in order to focus on the best interests of IAMGOLD shareholders.

RCF was disappointed to read IAMGOLD's February 2nd press release, an account that is a creative medley of self-serving mischaracterizations and fabrications regarding the recent engagement. RCF will not engage in a distracting tit-for-tat with IAMGOLD except to note that, other than the request that Maryse Belanger be appointed Chair, each and every one of the specific accusations made against RCF in IAMGOLD's press release under the heading RCF's 'unacceptable demands' is false. RCF's sole objective is to ensure there is a meaningful reconstitution of the Board of Directors (the "Board") of IAMGOLD with new leadership who will provide the deep mining, operational and governance experience the current Board desperately needs in order to oversee a successful turnaround.

RCF is disappointed that IAMGOLD continues to disregard the views of its major shareholders. RCF has repeatedly made it clear to the Board that the holders of nearly 40% of IAG Shares (inclusive of RCF's IAG Shares) are overwhelmingly supportive of RCF's proposal for Board renewal and leadership change at the Company.

RCF understands that IAMGOLD is aware of the views of its shareholders and calls on IAMGOLD to re-engage with RCF in a constructive manner to implement the changes that RCF has proposed, including the appointment of Ms. Belanger as Chair of the Board.

IAMGOLD cannot afford a distracting and costly proxy fight at a time when the focus needs to be on operational change.

The Board Needs to Immediately Put Aside any Alternative Plans It May Have to Further Promote Daniella Dimitrov and Follow the Urgings of its Shareholders

Throughout our engagement, it became increasingly clear to RCF that the Board was focussed on preserving Daniella Dimitrov's positions at IAMGOLD and elevating her to the role of permanent CEO. As we laid out in our letter to the Board dated February 1, 2022, we believe Ms. Dimitrov is simply not qualified in any way to lead the turnaround at IAMGOLD.

Both Ms. Belanger and Lawrence Haber made it clear to the directors with whom they met that it was necessary for the Board to conduct an open and transparent search process to find the best CEO to lead the Company. Mr. Haber made it clear that he could not imagine that Ms. Dimitrov possessed the requisite skills and experience to fulfil that role. It appears that the Board's unwillingness to accept Ms. Belanger as Chair and Mr. Haber as a director is directly tied to the Board's desire to promote Ms. Dimitrov to CEO, a plan which they knew Ms. Belanger and Mr. Haber would not support.

We question whether it is appropriate for Ms. Dimitrov to be acting as President, Interim CEO, CFO and EVP Corporate Development and Strategy, considering her experience and qualifications and interrelationships with the former Chair of the Board, Donald Charter. What does that say about the Board's independence, leadership and commitment to appropriate succession planning and an objective CEO search process?

IAMGOLD is in Desperate Need of an Operational Turnaround under New Leadership

RCF has taken it upon itself, at its cost, to take whatever steps are necessary to see that the Board does what is right for the Company and all of its shareholders. RCF invests globally in the mining sector and believes that integrity, accountability and doing the right thing are tenets that must be upheld.

The Board and what remains of management should focus on the best interests of IAMGOLD, rather than on increasing costs and disruption to serve their personal interests. Time is of the essence for this deeply troubled company.

RCF Calls on IAMGOLD to Immediately Re-Engage and Accept Maryse Belanger as the next Chair of the Board

Ms. Belanger has impeccable qualifications, a track record of operational excellence and is entirely independent of RCF. The three IAG directors who have already met her were enthusiastic about her joining the Board as Chair. Ms. Belanger remains ready and willing, as was the case during the standstill period, to meet with the Board at a time and place of the Board's choosing. As the Board is aware, there is widespread support for Ms. Belanger as the new Chair of the Board amongst IAMGOLD's major shareholders. We urge the Board to heed its major shareholders and stop dithering while shareholder value continues to erode.

Further Information on RCF's Director Nominees

High performing boards have a mix of skills and experience drawn from diverse backgrounds; factors which help in bringing broad perspectives to oversight and in challenging strategic execution. It is crucial that all Directors be independent in more than just a superficial way. As the current Board constitution shows eloquently, interlocking relationships and frequent partnerships reduce the ability of any Board to consider all options objectively. Board renewal should not simply be about new appointments to window dress average tenure or diversity statistics. It must start with identifying what the Board needs in terms of skills and attributes based on the current needs of the Company. In the case of IAMGOLD, the Company desperately needs an operational turnaround in a short period of time.

RCF contends that the IAMGOLD Board desperately needs three missing skill sets:

First, deep and recent mining operational experience, specifically in a turnaround situation. Second, a mining finance expert, again with experience in the turnaround and optimization space. Finally, a governance expert to bring expected disciplines and culture to the board that will be required to harness the full Board potential.

RCF believes that the Chair should be a mining operational expert with specific turnaround experience and the ability to help build a high performing management team. The Chair also needs to infuse the Board with a sense of purpose and urgency, replacing the complacency that has prevailed for a long time. Ms. Belanger has the right experience, skills and personal attributes to lead the Board. A mining finance expert is needed to bring rigour and discipline to the capital accounting of large-scale projects, the assessment of core/non-core assets and a critical eye on how investor capital is deployed. David Smith brings these capabilities to the board and would be an ideal Audit and Finance Committee Chair. Mr. Haber also has years of financing, capital markets and M&A experience to complement Mr. Smith. A governance expert should bring the requisite integrity to board processes that have languished under the previous Chair and is key to harnessing the collective potential of the Board. Mr. Haber brings these skills and attributes as well as legal training. As the following chart shows, the gaps in the current Board and the fit of our candidates to these requirements is irrefutable:

Non-Executive

Director IAG Director

Since Newly

Appointed to

IAG Board Recent

Mining

Operations

Experience Recent

Mining

Turnaround

Experience Mining

Finance

Experience Corporate

Governance

Experience Previous

Pubic Board

Experience Previous CEO

Experience Current Board Richard Hall 2012 x x x x x   Ronald Gagel 2018 x x x    x Timothy Snider 2011 x x x x x  x Deborah Starkman 2020  x x x x x x Anne Marie Toutant 2020  x x x x x x Ann Masse 2021  x x x x x x Kevin O'Kane 2021   x x x  x RCF Nominees Maryse Belanger N/A N/A       David Smith N/A N/A      x Lawrence Haber N/A N/A x x    

Details of our nominees' credentials are outlined below:

Maryse Belanger

Ms. Belanger has over 35 years of experience with senior gold companies globally, with proven strengths in operational excellence and efficiency, studies and technical services. She has provided oversight and project management support through some of the mining industry's key strategic acquisitions.

Ms. Belanger was CEO and Director of Augusta Gold from September 2020 to April 2021 focusing on rapidly re-developing gold production in the area of the historical Bullfrog Mine, Nevada. From July 2016 to July 2020, Ms. Belanger was President, COO and Director of Atlantic Gold Corporation, where she successfully guided the company in taking its Touquoy Mine in Nova Scotia from construction to commissioning, ramp up and full production, through its eventual acquisition by St. Barbara for C$722 million. Previously, from 2014 to 2016, she served as CEO and Managing Director of Mirabela Nickel Ltd. where she is credited with the successful turnaround of the Santa Rita mine in Brazil during a period of extremely low metal prices. From 2009 to 2014, Ms. Belanger was a senior executive with Goldcorp where she was ultimately appointed Senior Vice President, Technical Services. Prior to Goldcorp, Ms. Belanger was Director, Technical Services for Kinross Gold Corporation for Brazil and Chile.

Ms. Belanger is an active Board Member of Equinox Gold, Sherritt International and Pure Gold Mining and has served on the boards of Mirabela, True Gold, Kirkland Lake Gold, Newmarket Gold, Sigma Lithium, Plateau Energy Metals and Atlantic Gold. In 2021 she was recognized as one of the most influential mining leaders in British Columbia by Business in Vancouver (BC500) and twice by the Women in Mining UK "WIM (UK)" 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining as one the most inspirational Global Women in Mining. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, a graduate certificate in Geostatistics, ICD.D designation and she is fluent in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese.

David Stewart Smith

David Smith has had a career on both the finance and the supply sides of business within the mining sector, with extensive international exposure.

Mr. Smith has more than 35 years of financial and executive leadership experience. Mr. Smith is currently a Corporate Director at Hudbay Minerals Inc. where he chairs the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee and at Pretium Resources Inc. where he chairs the Audit Committee. Mr. Smith also served in the past as a Corporate Director for Nevsun Resources Ltd, Paramount Gold Nevada Corp. and Dominion Diamonds Corp. He served as the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Finning International Inc. from 2009 to 2014, a major equipment supplier to the mining industry with significant operations in Canada and South America. Prior to joining Finning, Mr. Smith served as Chief Financial Officer and a Vice President of Ballard Power Systems, Inc. from 2002 to 2009. Previously, he spent 16 years with Placer Dome Inc. in various senior positions and 4 years with PriceWaterhouseCoopers.

Mr. Smith has been involved in the acquisition, development, financing and operations of base/precious metal mines. During his tenure as a director at Nevsun Resources Ltd., he was the chair of the audit committee, member of the corporate governance committee and oversaw the strategic review leading to the C$1.8 billion takeover offer from Zijin Mining. In addition, while acting as a director at Dominion Diamond Corporation, he was chair of the audit committee and member of the compensation committee, and a member of the special committee that led the $1.2 billion sale to Washington Companies.

Mr. Smith holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from California State University, Sacramento and has completed the Institute of Corporate Directors course, Directors Education Program.

Lawrence Paul Haber

Lawrence P. Haber (Lorie) has had a diverse career in the financial industry and the capital markets  as a senior executive with National Bank Financial (Executive Vice-President, Corporate Development and Governance) and DundeeWealth (Executive Vice-President, Dundee Financial, Co-Head of Capital Markets, and Chief Operating Officer of Dundee Securities), as a securities lawyer and partner of Fogler, Rubinoff LLP, a Toronto law firm, as a corporate board member and advisory board member of several public and private companies, as a CEO of Benev Capital Corp (now Diversified Royalty Corp), a TSX listed public company, as an adviser to the Ontario Government on several policy projects relating to the capital markets and the financial industry, and, as a Commissioner of the Ontario Securities Commission ("OSC").

Currently, Mr. Haber is a Commissioner and the Lead Director of the OSC and he also currently serves as a director and Chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of Eco Oro Minerals Corp. Mr. Haber retired as a director and Board Chair of Diversified Royalty Corp in early 2021 after 10 years of service. Mr. Haber taught a course on complex corporate transactions as an Adjunct Professor in the Osgoode Hall Law School LL.M Program for several years. Mr. Haber holds a BA (Hons) in Political Science from the University of Toronto and an LL.B from Osgoode Hall Law School of York University.

About RCF:

RCF is a group of private equity funds, established in 1998 with a mining sector specific investment mandate spanning all hard mineral commodities and geographic regions. We have supported more than 200 mining companies, with projects located in over 50 countries and across more than 30 commodities. RCF has a strong team of investment professionals, with wide ranging industry and technical expertise, and a demonstrated history of turnaround investments in mining globally. RCF's track record is based on its ability to pick technically and commercially compelling assets and support management to achieve desired outcomes. We aim to partner with companies to build strong, successful and sustainable businesses and in so doing earn superior returns for shareholders.

Additional Information

IAMGOLD announced on January 31, 2022 that it will hold its annual meeting of shareholders on May 3, 2022 (the "Meeting"). RCF anticipates that its nominees will be considered for election at the Meeting or any adjournment(s) or postponement(s) thereof. In connection with the Meeting, RCF may file an information circular in due course.

Information in Support of Public Broadcast Solicitation

The following information is provided in accordance with applicable corporate and securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations. RCF is relying on the exemption under sections 9.2(4) and 9.2(6) of National Instrument 51-102  Continuous Disclosure Obligations and section 150(1.2) of the Canada Business Corporations Act to make this public broadcast solicitation.

This news release and any solicitation made by RCF in advance of the Meeting is, or will be, as applicable, made by RCF and not by or on behalf of the management of IAMGOLD.

RCF intends to solicit proxies in accordance with all applicable securities and corporate law requirements and, in connection therewith, intends to provide a form of proxy that includes the names of the RCF nominees to shareholders of IAMGOLD. Proxies may be solicited by RCF pursuant to an information circular sent to shareholders after which solicitations may be made by or on behalf of RCF, by mail, telephone, fax, email or other electronic means as well as by newspaper or other media advertising, and in person by directors, officers and employees of RCF, who will not be specifically remunerated therefor. RCF may also solicit proxies in reliance upon the public broadcast exemption to the solicitation requirements under applicable corporate and securities laws, conveyed by way of public broadcast, including through press releases, speeches or publications, and by any other manner permitted under applicable Canadian laws. RCF may engage the services of one or more agents and authorize other persons to assist in soliciting proxies on behalf of RCF.

RCF has retained Kingsdale Advisors ("Kingsdale") as its strategic advisor and to assist RCF in the solicitation of proxies. RCF will pay Kingsdale fees currently estimated at up to $350,000. All costs incurred for any solicitation will be borne by RCF, provided that, subject to applicable law, RCF may seek reimbursement from IAMGOLD of RCF's out-of-pocket expenses, including proxy solicitation expenses and legal fees, incurred in connection with a successful reconstitution of the Board.

Kingsdale's responsibilities will principally include advising RCF on governance best practices, where applicable, liaising with proxy advisory firms, developing and implementing shareholder communication and engagement strategies, and advising with respect to meeting and proxy protocol.

A registered shareholder of IAMGOLD that gives a proxy may revoke it: (a) by completing and signing a valid proxy bearing a later date than the proxy being revoked and returning the newly completed and signed proxy in accordance with the instructions contained in the form of proxy; (b) by depositing an instrument in writing executed by the shareholder or by the shareholder's attorney authorized in writing, as the case may be: (i) at the registered office of IAMGOLD at any time up to and including the last business day preceding the day of the Meeting at which the proxy is to be used, or (ii) with the chairman of the Meeting on the day of the Meeting; or (c) in any other manner permitted by law. A non-registered holder of common shares of IAMGOLD will be entitled to revoke a form of proxy or voting instruction form given to an intermediary at any time by written notice to the intermediary in accordance with the instructions given to the non-registered holder by its intermediary.

IAMGOLD's registered office address is 401 Bay Street, Suite 3200, PO Box 153, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5H 2Y4.

RCF has filed a press release dated February 1, 2022 (the "RCF Press Release") containing the information required by Form 51102F5  Information Circular in respect of its proposed nominees. A copy of the RCF Press Release may be obtained on IAMGOLD's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

To the knowledge of RCF, neither RCF, nor any of its directors or officers, or any associates or affiliates of the foregoing, nor any of the RCF nominees or their respective associates or affiliates has: (a) any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the commencement of the Company's most recently completed financial year or in any proposed transaction which has materially affected or would materially affect the Company or any of its subsidiaries; or (b) any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted on at the Meeting, other than the removal of certain incumbent directors and the election of directors to fill the vacancies created by such removals.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. In general, forward-looking information refers to disclosure about future conditions, courses of action, and events. All statements contained in this press release that are not clearly historical in nature or that necessarily depend on future events are forwardlooking, and the use of any of the words "anticipates", "believes", "expects", "intends", "plans", "will", "would", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of RCF and currently available information. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. RCF undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities legislation.

Disclaimer

The information contained or referenced herein is for information purposes only in order to provide the views of RCF and the matters which RCF believes to be of concern to shareholders described herein. The information is not tailored to specific investment objections, the financial situations, suitability, or particular need of any specific person(s) who may receive the information, and should not be taken as advice in considering the merits of any investment decision. The views expressed herein represent the views and opinions of RCF, whose opinions may change at any time and which are based on analyses of RCF and its advisors.

SOURCE Resource Capital Fund VII L.P.
In Moldova, the EBRD, with funding from the Small Business Impact Fund (SBIF), recently helped local company DAD Accountant to create a new website, making it more modern, functional and user friendly, increasing visibility of the brand and generating new business leads.

Founded by CFO Dan Dima and current CEO Andrian Dediu, DAD Accountant started operating in 2016, with a commitment to providing accountancy services adhering to the principles of safety, confidentiality and professionalism.

Recently, the business has diversified into other services, from recruitment to HR management, financial and managerial reporting, as well as specialised training. Developed to cover the array of departments that a typical SME might have, this suite of services has truly helped the business grow and fulfil its potential.

Co-founders with a fresh vision

The germ of the idea for the business came from Dan, who was shaped by his personal experience working for one of the Big Four, driving him to start his own company and carve out a place in the market. Andrian shared Dans enthusiasm and both realised there was space for a new entrant to shake things up and challenge the orthodoxy of the main players.

Within the company, Dans expertise is in financial auditing and advice, whereas Andrians focus is quality of service and client satisfaction: developing services and business leads, specialising in optimising logistical and operational procedures for both DAD and its clients.

In terms of advice for fledgling entrepreneurs, Andrian says, It is important  even at the start-up stage  to take courses on taxation and budget planning. To know what the business figures are and how to control them is integral to running a successful company.

Ambitions and technology

DAD Accountant is currently one of the top seven companies providing accountancy services in Moldova, with ambitions to become number one. To get there, the business continuously invests in utilising the most effective technologies available for processing requests and communications, benefitting their clients as well as their staff.

The company lives by the tenets integrity, accuracy and timeliness, and with investment in innovative digital solutions, the company can uphold those values by cutting back on unnecessary admin and outdated software. To DADs co-founders, it is not easy to accelerate if you are inflexible or take too much time to adapt to the changes happening around you.

Challenges and growth

One of the major challenges the company faced was moving away from classic marketing strategies and rethinking how they could attract and then add value to local companies beyond what already existed in the marketplace. With support from the EBRDs Advice for Small Businesses programme, the company created a new website, refreshing their previous basic, dated and unintuitive offering. A complete overhaul was needed, with a focus on features, analysis and the ability to post regular, high quality content.

Andrian says, Given that the company provides a broad spectrum of B2B services, for advertising purposes it was necessary to structure the website precisely for each direction of development. The new multi-page site makes it possible to create marketing campaigns that direct the flow of potential customers to the specific corresponding service page. Educational and specialist materials, such as blog articles and business case studies, are then added to the exact section of interest.

Clients can also submit documents online, track account progress and follow their payment schedules, as well communicate directly with their allocated accountant.

A new lease of life

The new website acts as an information hub and a conduit for the business and its communications, helping the company grow substantially. Annually, the number of offices is increasing and there are now 30 team members over 3 towns, serving 130 subscription-based clients and about 25 occasional clients per month.

In just six years, the company has become a recognisable and dependable face in the market, earning numerous accolades that are indicative of the trust its growing client base places in it. This is down to the vision of management and their willingness to invest in the business, combined with the hard work of staff, with a commitment to quality control and providing an excellent, competitively priced service.

This all adds up to a company that is very much taking its destiny into its own hands: laying the foundations for growth and beginning to establish itself as a pre-eminent player in the Moldovan market.
(Getty Images)

England will travel to Munichs Allianz Arena for next years crunch clash with Germany in the Uefa Nations League.

Germany rotate their international fixtures around various grounds, with the countrys FA confirming Bayern Munichs home as the venue for the June 7 meeting.

England were victorious the last time the two countries met, winning their Euro 2020 round of 16 match 2-0 courtesy of goals from Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane.

The Three Lions start their Nations League campaign away to Hungary three days earlier, before hosting home games against both Italy and Hungary.

The meeting with Italy, a repeat of the Euro 2020 final which saw the Azzurri win on a penalty shoot-out, will be played behind closed doors following sanctions for the behaviour of England supporters at Wembley before and during the game.

Gareth Southgates side will round off their Group A3 fixtures away to Italy and at home to Germany in September ahead of the World Cup in Qatar, which begins less than two months later.

England are next in action in March, hosting two Wembley friendlies against Switzerland (March 26) and Ivory Coast (March 29).

Additional reporting by PA.
The Sex And The City reboot has been lambasted by critics during it's 10-episode run over the absence of fourth musketeer, Samantha Jones.

Yet the finale episode of And Just Like That... hinted the character could be making a comeback in some capacity, after Samantha Jones (formerly played by Kim Cattrall) sent a text agreeing to meet up with Carrie Bradshaw (played by Sarah Jessica Parker).

After Kim refused to join the reboot Samantha was written out of the show in a storyline that involved her moving to London after a row with Carrie - which MailOnline exclusively revealed in November - and only featured in episodes through the medium of text.

Could it be? The And Just Like That... finale hinted that Kim Cattrall's character of Samantha Jones could be recast after the actress vowed never to return to the show (pictured in 2020)

However, the finale episode suggests that showrunners want Samantha to return to the series, even though Kim has insisted she will not take part.

In the episode Carrie writes: 'I kissed a man', before Samantha pens: 'The first of many. How was it?' and Carrie replies: 'It wasn't Big'.

Samantha replies: 'So, it was small', to Carrie's 'Want to talk?' Samantha simply replies - 'soon', in a mysterious nod to Kim's presence.

Later on, Carrie texts: 'I'm in Paris, want to meet for a cocktail?' - to which Samantha responds: 'How's tomorrow night?' and Carrie replies: 'FABULOUS'.

Surprise! Samantha Jones (formerly played by Kim) sent a text agreeing to meet up with Carrie Bradshaw (played by Sarah Jessica Parker) in the reboot finale

Kim refused to join the reboot following a fall out with Sarah - with bad blood between the two said to have been an issue during filming the original series and subsequent two films.

While a second season of AJLT has yet to be confirmed, creator Michael Patrick King said he no longer has any realistic expectation' of Kim reprising her role if they get the green light.

While discussing how he incorporated the star's beloved character in the reboot through text, the director, 67, opened up to Variety about overcoming the 'obstacle' of not having Kim on the series.

Iconic: The Sex And The City reboot has been lambasted by critics during it's 10-episode run over the absence of fourth musketeer, Samantha Jones

When asked if the door was open for the Golden Globe winner to come back, he responded: 'The only place I participate in magical thinking is in fiction. You take people at their word.'

'I have no realistic expectation of Kim Cattrall ever appearing again,' he told the outlet. 'You take people at their word, and you're a smart producer  you don't back yourself into a corner.'

Kim previously hinted at her feelings on the reboot after 'liking' a tweet that branded it 'trashy'.

Michael also said he didn't feel any added pressure while writing messages between Samantha and Carrie .

He made it clear he loves Samantha's character and felt 'it was important emotionally for everybody' to explain her absence.

In the first scene, the Just Like That... creator made a point to address the pandemic and 'the question that was on everybody's minds': 'Where's Samantha?'

'She's part of the show and people love her. And I wanted to respect the legacy, wanted to respect the fans,' Michael continued.
The number of active cases in the national capital has registered a fall of over 60 per cent in the last one week, even as DDMA authorities are slated to meet on Friday to discuss further



relaxations in COVID-19 curbs in view of improving situation.

While daily cases count, positivity rate, and several other metrics have shown a downtrend in the past several days, the number of deaths reported here due to Covid, has not abated much in the last few weeks.

On January 26, the daily cases tally had stood at 7,498 with a positivity rate of 10.59 per cent, and 29 deaths were registered. The active cases tally on that day was 38,315 while the cumulative death cases had stood at 25,710, as per official data.

On February 2, the daily cases tally came down to 3,028 while the positivity rate slipped to 4.73 per cent, and 27 deaths were registered. The active cases tally on that day had fallen to 14,870 while the cumulative death cases had stood at 25,919.

So, 210 fatalities have been reported in the last one week, as per official figures, while the active cases count has reduced by a margin of about 61 per cent.

However, as the overall pandemic situation ok Delhi has shown an improvement, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) is scheduled to meet on Friday to discuss further relaxations in COVID-19 curbs, including reopening of schools, in view of the declining cases in the national capital.

Schools in the city were briefly reopened before being closed again on December 28 last year in view of the third wave of COVID-19 driven by the Omicron variant.

The number of daily cases in Delhi had reached a record high of 28,867 on January 13. The city had recorded a positivity rate of 30.6 per cent on January 14, the highest during the ongoing wave of the pandemic.

But, the number of daily cases has been on the decline lately. It had taken just 10 days for daily cases to drop below the 10,000-mark.

Delhi on January 23 had reported 9,197 Covid cases with a positivity rate of 13.32 per cent and 34 deaths.

The surge in Covid cases in Delhi during the third wave of the pandemic, are due to the Omicron variant of the virus which is highly transmissible.

Family after families in a large number of neighbourhoods had tested positive, but medical experts have said that since the infection had happened at the same time, the recovery too has been quicker for the community as a whole, and there has been less chance of more spread of infection as people have been largely home isolated with a very little number of patients needing hospitalisation this time.

There are 15,426 beds for Covid patients in Delhi hospitals and 1,400 (9.08 per cent) of them were occupied. A total of 1,400 Covid patients were in hospitals, the Thursday health department bulletin stated.

The number of people under home isolation stood at 10,347 on Thursday while it was 12,312 a day before, and the number of containment zones in the city stood at 35,961, a fall from 37,116 on Wednesday, the bulletin 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.)
University of Chicago Medicine plans to build a $633 million, 500,000-square-foot cancer hospital in Hyde Park  in hopes of addressing health inequities on the South Side and attracting patients from across the region.

The massive center would include 128 beds for overnight patients, space for outpatient services and procedures, an urgent care for cancer patients and be a hub for cancer research, with clinical trials enrolling patients who live on the South Side and elsewhere. The hope is that patients would be able to get nearly all of their cancer care at the center rather than having to go to multiple locations for tests and treatments, said Dr. Kunle Odunsi, director of UChicago Medicines Comprehensive Cancer Center.

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The additional 128 beds would also free up that same number of beds at the often-packed University of Chicago Medical Center, making room for more patients with other complex needs, he said. The hospital is often nearly full now, and was frequently near capacity even before COVID-19, he said. That means the hospital must now often turn down requests to have patients transferred to it from other strained area hospitals, said University of Chicago Medical Center President Thomas Jackiewicz, in a letter to the head of the state Health Facilities and Services Review Board about the project.

This will have a major impact in terms of our ability to take care of patients coming from our South Side community, Odunsi said. This kind of hospital provides a unique opportunity to not only meet the needs of cancer patients in the new hospital but also meet the needs of other noncancer patients as well.

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It will be an opportunity for South Side residents to gain access to a world-class cancer hospital, he said.

Dr. Kunle Odunsi is director of University of Chicago Medicines Comprehensive Cancer Center. (Nancy Wong/UChicago Medicine / HANDOUT)

UChicago Medicine said it submitted an application to the state Health Facilities and Services Review Board this week for permission to spend money on design and site planning for the center. If thats approved, it plans to submit another application in the fall to start construction.

Construction could begin in 2023, and the facility could open to patients in 2026. The free-standing facility is planned for vacant land owned by the university on East 57th Street, between South Maryland and South Drexel avenues.

Many hope that the new center will be a step toward addressing long-standing health inequities on the South Side of Chicago, where many Black Chicagoans live. Cancer death rates on the South Side are about twice the national average, Odunsi said. Between 2014 and 2018, South Side residents were 29% more likely to receive a cancer diagnosis than those who lived in other parts of the city, according to Jackiewiczs letter.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death for South Siders, after heart disease, according to UChicago Medicine. Its the leading cause of death in five neighborhoods: Calumet Heights, East Side, Kenwood, South Deering and Woodlawn.

Its believed those disparities are because of issues such as a lack of access to health care, racism, economic instability, and a lack of access to nutritious foods and opportunities for physical activity, among other things.

The health systems application to the state board said the disparities reflect a history of racial inequities and underinvestment  both of which have contributed to a fragmented healthcare delivery landscape with limited resources.

Over the past 10 years, there have been more than a dozen inpatient service or hospital closures on the South Side, and theres now a shortage of primary care and obstetrical providers in the area, according to the application.

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South Side patients have faced many inequities for a long time, Odunsi said. The question is how can we correct some of these aberrations.

Its hoped that the center will give people who live on the South Side easier access to cancer prevention programs, screenings and early detection, as well as treatment. Now, about 56% of area patients leave the South Side for care, according to UChicago Medicine.

Odunsi also expects the new cancer center to attract patients from beyond the South Side.

We fully anticipate there will be things that can only happen at the University of Chicago Cancer Center and potentially could drive people from outside the region to come to this cancer hospital, Odunsi said.

But the cancer center plans to engage its South Side communities and conduct outreach to ensure South Side residents have access to the hospital, with Odunsi saying their care is a top priority.

Candace Henley, a cancer survivor and founder of The Blue Hat Foundation in Chicago, applauded the plan for the new cancer center in a news release, saying, The South Side is the epicenter of health care inequality in the city of Chicago and the health care community needs to begin listening to the experiences of South Side patients and investing in better care options for patients of color if we are going to improve health outcomes for Chicagos underprivileged communities. Henley is also a member of the UChicago Medicine Community Advisory Council.

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University of Chicago Medical Center has faced criticism from community members in the past for its decadeslong lack of a Level I trauma center for treating traumatic injuries, such as from gunshots and vehicle crashes. It was a situation that forced many South Side victims of violence and crashes to travel to farther hospitals for care. After years of campaigning by community activists, the hospital opened a new Level I trauma program in 2018.

UChicago Medicine is now also part of the South Side Healthy Community Organization, which is made up of more than a dozen South Side hospitals, health centers and others working together to improve health care access and outcomes on the South Side. The organization was recently awarded $26 million in state grants, which it said it would use to improve access to care, including by adding 90 primary care and obstetrics providers.

In constructing the new cancer center, UChicago Medicine is part of a trend of hospitals and health systems building new facilities and expanding others in hopes of modernizing their spaces and better competing with other hospitals for patients.

U.S. News & World Report ranks hospitals by specialty, and most recently ranked Northwestern Memorial Hospital as the sixth best in the country for cancer, and University of Chicago Medical Center as the 21st, with Rush University Medical Center following at 42nd. Northwestern and UChicago Medicines cancer centers have been recognized as comprehensive cancer centers by the National Cancer Institute.

Rush University Medical Center has been constructing a large facility on Chicagos Near West Side that it hopes will become a destination center for cancer and neurological care.

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In June 2020, the state Health Facilities and Services Review Board approved an application by Northwestern Memorial Hospital for a project to add 49 beds and construct a three-story connector between two of its buildings in Streeterville, partly to try to relieve crowding in its emergency department.

And in 2017, the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago moved into a new $550 million, 1.2 million-square-foot facility in Streeterville, changing its name to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. In making the move, the top-rated rehabilitation hospital boosted its number of beds and created spaces to encourage close work between researchers, doctors and patients.
Today Id like to share some of the highlights from a great example of the value of peer learning in the Nebraska Community Foundation network. On Friday our friends in Boone County hosted people from Ogallala, North Platte, Pender, Ainsworth, Schuyler, Columbus, Norfolk and Lincoln for an open discussion of three important topics.

Each group brought both expertise and curiosity to discussions on housing, fundraising for capital projects and early childhood education. For example, Boone County has extraordinary success and expertise to share in fundraising and a stellar example of early childhood education in Boone Beginnings. On the other hand, they would like to learn from others in the housing arena.

One big takeaway in all these areas, but especially in housing, is the need for all resources to be used in combination to create success. Unfortunately, private enterprise isnt going to solve this housing crunch alone  there are too many market forces creating headwinds.

Brian Bywater is the housing specialist for Schuyler Community Development, where they have done about as well on housing as any community in recent years. He shared the value of communities making connections with housing developers, contractors and other resources; the various housing programs they have leveraged; investment of the local business community; and the commitment made by local government to move ahead in housing. Using all of those tools, Schuyler has built single-family houses, apartments, senior living and have more in development.

Given the complexity of the issue, Id say one major takeaway from Fridays discussion is the need for communities to have someone in a position similar to Brians. NCF has been working with a community to develop a template for such a position using charitable resources, and there was certainly interest in the room in that approach.

Shannon Harner, Executive Director of Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) said Friday there is a growing gap between the cost of construction and the capacity of Nebraska families to pay the mortgage or rent that comes with that cost. NIFA helps in a variety of ways, but they have been working with NCF in two specific experiments.

First, NIFA has offered matching grants to three community colleges to develop the pipeline of future workforce in residential building. Current contractor shortages add expense (not to mention frustration) to home construction, so this is an important long-term approach.

Second, NIFA has partnered with NCF and a private developer to experiment with an approach that could bring private, public and charitable resources together. This effort has been developed within NCFs People Attraction Committee over the past year and is just now reaching the point of contact with a community to see if it works on the ground. More to come!

One other key takeaway from that discussion is that senior housing is a potential sweet spot in the housing realm. Shannon brought that idea first to the meeting Friday, and weve seen it confirmed in other places. Moving retirees (or near retirees) into new housing opens up housing units that are likely going to be typical homes for first-time home buyers. This addresses that gap I referenced earlier, which means generally we today cant build entry-level housing thats affordable as new construction. And, traditionally, thats how the housing market has worked: as we age and move out of older housing, that opens it up for those who follow. Current housing markets are so tight that the flexibility doesnt exist, so that model has broken down to some degree. One other benefit, senior housing is also a place where charitable or public dollars are likely to be used, so that can lower the overall cost to the end users.

As you can tell, there was plenty of fruitful discussion among these Nebraskans who were willing to give up a day, travel and share. This spirit of being a good neighbor is part of the reason that Nebraska works so well, and that was on full display in Albion last Friday.

K.C. Belitz is the chief operating officer of the Nebraska Community Foundation.
At the risk of sounding flip, there are two kinds of people: Those who have never heard of Clarence Major. And those who sometimes wonder: Whatever happened to Clarance Major? Some of that is natural, to be expected, the not-at-all surprising narrative of an artist once described by World Literature Today as an iconoclast, black esthetician, modernist, surrealist, postmodernist and deconstructionist. He grew up on the South Side then left Chicago in 1966 and taught at Howard University, the University of Nice in France, Sarah Lawrence College; this past New Years Eve, now a retired professor emeritus from the English department of University of California at Davis, he turned 85.

The guy has never been easy to pin down.

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Hes written more than a dozen poetry collections, and two dictionaries of Black slang. Hes been a lexicographer and an ethnologist; he started painting while still in grade school, once he received a scholarship from the Art Institute of Chicago. If you thought Clarence Major was a painter, you would not be mistaken. Hes a well-regarded painter.

I know him  and admittedly, I dont know Clarence Major nearly as well as I would like to know him  from a single novel I that read when it was first published about 25 years ago, passed down to me by a colleague. Dirty Bird Blues tells the story of a Chicago musician moving through his day, marking his time, taking jobs, writing lyrics, working at Sears, leaving Chicago, wondering if he will become just like his parents, wondering if he will eventually dry out, feeling lousy, hoping for something greater, finding a moment of release in a blues show. It opens with this man  whose name is Manfred, though spends the novel identified as Man  getting a stomach full of buckshot. If that doesnt sound like a blues song in itself, his wife also ran off with a preacher  the guy who shot him. And its Christmas. Major writes: Man couldnt feel much because he was still sailing high, the good liquor coating him from the hawk, the howling, now the gunshot wounds. Snow up-to-the-ass cold, colder than a witchs behind up here, cold as embalmed lovers still locked together, colder than Stagger Lees grin. Thats page one.

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Clarence Major is honored at the 19th Annual Celebration of Leadership in the Fine Arts in Washington, DC on Sept. 16, 2015. (Earl Gibson III/Getty Images)

If you hear a bit of the Beat Generation in there, yes: After serving in the Air Force in the 1950s, Major returned to Chicago and created a short-lived literary journal that made room for original pieces by Beat icons, including Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Henry Miller.

Though it lasted only three issues, it provided Major with publishing-world connections.

Even as he painted, he wrote, many novels, poems, histories. By the mid-90s, when he wrote Dirty Bird Blues  his bestseller, courtesy of Random House  his prose was consciously musical, flowing, capturing the grinding, strumming chug of American blues.

Specifically, the Chicago blues of his youth, in Bronzeville.

Major spoke on the phone the other day from his home in Northern California. At first, he was understandable fuzzy on many names and places  he has not lived in Chicago since the Daley Administration, the first one  but otherwise, he was lively and sharp.

On Dirty Bird Blues, he remembered everything.

Which is fortunate.

Dirty Bird Blues will be finally reissued this month, with honors, as the latest member of a venerated literary tradition. It becomes a Penguin Classic, which, by nature of that hallowed, 76-year-old imprint, lends a degree of posterity and indelibility. In other words, whether Clarence Major likes it or not, Dirty Bird Blues now becomes a signature work.

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For the record, he likes it.

"Dirty Bird Blues" by Clarence Major (1996). (Mercury House)

Its funny to me that, because it goes into Penguin Classics, it literally becomes my classic. Im not a great judge of my books. I am too close. With this one, I can say I am satisfied, which is about as much as anyone should hope to say, I suppose. The way I see it, most writers, famous or not, are eventually known for one book. Hemingway, maybe he had a few, but not everything, right? Fitzgerald? The Great Gatsby. Thats true of writers today and yesterday. You are best known, if you are known, for one book. Thats it. Im happy this is the one for me. I never sold in huge numbers but this one sold well. Speaking of The Great Gatsby, that didnt sell a whole lot when it first came out.

Fitzgeralds classic now sells roughly half a million copies ever year, but for the 20 years after it was initially published, less than 20,000 copies of The Great Gatsby were sold.

Oh, well, Major said, I did better than that.

Dirty Bird Blues was a kind of culmination for him. It drew on the etymology of slang, and completed an unplanned trilogy of novels that he had written about artists. His father was an Atlanta businessman who did so-so. He was self-employed most of his life which I guess is an accomplishment. When his parents divorced, he moved with his mother to Chicago. They lived near Oakwood and King (then Grand), across from the Ritz, a jazz mecca. He set Dirty Bird Blues in this period, after World War II, as blues is being institutionalized and renamed Chicago Blues, with distinctive Delta roots. A few years ago, after being away a while, he drove through his old neighborhood and was surprised by the deterioration, he said. He remembers a livelier Chicago. They lived on the top floor. Musicians like Johnny Otis and Lionel Hampton would rent the rooms below.

By the time he was a teenager, he was traveling weekly to the Art Institute for classes, reading the Midwest classics (Studs Lonigan, Native Son), meeting Chicago artists (Archibald Motley, Charles White); later, in France, he became close to James Baldwin.

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Dirty Bird Blues became, to an extent, he said, about the tension between finding space as an artist and making a living, nurturing relationships, existing in the world. This is felt no stronger than in scenes at Sears, among Black men hired to clean the building in the dead of the night. When they take a break, they play the dozens, insulting each other, back and forth, sort of in jest. In his forward to the Penguin edition, Pulitzer-winning poet Yusef Komunyakaa writes that Majors Man is a Coltrane figure, not satisfied with the mere fingering of the elemental strings of his existence but determined to see into the mystery of his being. When the dozens comes up, its no just put-downs being felt here, but history, Black American pathos passed down through generations.

You feel Chicago history, the Great Migration, a legacy of inequality, the promise of more. If Great Gatsby, broadly, captures a melancholy about the American Dream, Dirty Bird Blues is, broadly, about Black American talent for finding a way out of no way. I asked Major if, despite cliches and caricatures, he thinks of the blues as actually hopeful, full of promise. He said, yes, thats the book. Its about the glory of having life left, overcoming, moving on. I never wanted (Man) to be a guy just down on his luck, I wanted him to strive. The blues, in the end, if you think about it, is for staying positive.

Otherwise, why create anything?

At 85, Major is painting again, hes writing a new collection of short stories. He says with a laugh that he hears from people now that he is iconic, legendary. But he also hears that hes obscure. So I dont know what I am. But Im OK with it. I think of Patti LaBelle, who said she knew she had finally made it when Richard Pryor bought her a Cadillac. That she didnt know if she was successful until then? Tells you a lot. Who ever knows?

cborrelli@chicagotribune.com
BEIJING and TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ADAMA Ltd. (SZSE: 000553), one of the world's leading crop protection companies, today announced the launch of Timeline FX, the industry's most advanced cross-spectrum spring foliar herbicide for cereals.

Engineered with three Active Ingredients with complementary modes of action together with a built-in adjuvant, Timeline FX ensures flexibility for growers by giving the widest application window of any herbicide for controlling broadleaf and grass weeds for cereal crops.

"Farmers shared with us that they were looking for more convenient, effective solutions to control weeds across a range of cereals, and throughout a wide time frame during the busy spring season. We listened and delivered with Timeline FX, which helps save costs, reduces the risk of mistakes during mixing, and delivers powerful performance," said Rob Williams, SVP ADAMA Europe. "Its three complementary modes of action give farmers peace of mind that they can control tough weeds at any time in the growing cycle, without having to store, mix and apply multiple products."

Tests throughout Europe have demonstrated Timeline FX's consistent control on a wide range of broadleaf weeds and improved management of grassweeds, compared with the competitor standard. There is no herbicide antagonism, so farmers can use other crop protection products in tandem with Timeline FX.

A key component of a full program approach, Timeline FX complements other solutions in ADAMA's cross-spectrum cereal herbicide portfolio. The global herbicides market is expected to grow from an estimated $35.72 billion in 2021 to $47.09 billion in 2025, at a CAGR of 7%.

Timeline FX is registered in Lithuania, Latvia and Sweden for use on wheat crops such as Winter/Spring Wheat, Durum Wheat, Rye, Triticale, and Spelt. Registrations in over 20 additional countries is expected to follow suit with registration label extension for barley crops expected. Ingredients included in Timeline FX are Pinoxaden, Florasulam and Fluroxypyr.

About ADAMA

ADAMA Ltd. is a global leader in crop protection, providing solutions to farmers across the world to combat weeds, insects and disease. ADAMA has one of the widest and most diverse portfolios of active ingredients in the world, as well as state-of-the-art R&D, manufacturing and formulation facilities. With a culture that empowers our people to listen to farmers and ideate from the field, ADAMA is uniquely positioned to offer a vast array of distinctive mixtures, formulations and high-quality differentiated products, delivering solutions that meet local farmer and customer needs in over 100 countries globally. For more information, visit us at www.ADAMA.com and follow us on Twitter at @ADAMAAgri.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/799829/Adama_Agricultural_Solutions_Logo.jpg

ADAMA Contact:

Efrat Dayan

Public Relations

[email protected]

SOURCE ADAMA Ltd.
The country's is estimated to have increased by 5.64 per cent to 18.70 million tonnes during the October-January period of the ongoing marketing year 2021-22 from over the year-ago period, industry body said on Thursday.

Sugar mills had manufactured 17.70 million tonnes of sugar in the corresponding period of the previous 2020-21 marketing year (October-September), it said.

According to the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA), in Uttar Pradesh (the country's top sugar producing state) remained lower at 5.03 million tonnes during the October-January period of this marketing year, compared with 5.44 million tonnes in the year-ago period.

However, in Maharashtra, the country's second-largest producing state, rose to 7.29 million tonnes from 6.38 million tonnes. That of Karnataka, the country's third-largest producing state, rose to 3.87 million tonnes from 3.45 million tonnes in the said period.

Sugar production reached 5,75,000 tonnes in Gujarat and 2,88,000 tonnes in Tamil Nadu till January of the ongoing marketing year. The remaining states collectively produced 1.64 million tonnes in the said period, said in a statement.

The industry body hailed an increase in the revised budgetary allocation for the current fiscal to Rs 6,844 crore from Rs 4,337 crore in earlier Budget Estimates for the sugar industry, saying that this is positive towards clearing cane payment.

also said the increase in Budget allocation for the next fiscal at Rs 300 crore (for extending financial assistance to sugar mills for enhancement and augmentation of ethanol capacity) will boost supplies for ethanol blending and reduce the country's oil import bills.

(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.)
SAN MATEO, Calif., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vivace Therapeutics, Inc., a small molecule discovery and development company developing first-in-class therapies targeting the Hippo pathway, today announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued the company two new composition of matter patents. The newly issued patents, U.S. No. 11,186,554 and U.S. No. 11,192,865, are directed at novel, first-in-class, anti-cancer compounds discovered by Vivace that target the Hippo pathway.

"We have undertaken a thoughtful and strategic approach to building a strong intellectual property estate that offers appropriate protection for the pioneering work we have conducted in understanding the Hippo pathway and creating proprietary compounds that have the ability to fight cancer by impacting this pathway," said Sofie Qiao, Ph.D., chief executive officer of Vivace Therapeutics. "The issuance of these patents supports our continued work aimed at delivering first-in-class treatments to patients battling cancer."

Vivace's proprietary compounds inhibit palmitoylation of members of the transcriptional enhanced associate domain (TEAD) protein family, including both covalent and non-covalent inhibitors. The company's clinical candidate, VT3989, is currently in Phase 1 clinical trials. Pre-clinical research and development activities have demonstrated that the clinical candidate is active as a monotherapy and in combination with other anti-cancer therapies against tumors that rely upon dysfunction of the Hippo pathway.

About Vivace Therapeutics, Inc.

Vivace Therapeutics is a small molecule drug discovery and development company focused on targeting the Hippo pathway. The company is pursuing a first-in-class approach to treat human carcinomas of high unmet medical need. Based in San Francisco Bay Area, the company has raised $70 million to date, and is funded by leading biotechnology investors, including Canaan Partners, WuXi Healthcare Ventures, Cenova Capital, Sequoia Capital China, Boxer Capital and RA Capital Mangement. For more information, please visit www.vivacetherapeutics.com.

Contact information

Sofie Qiao, Ph.D.

President and CEO

[email protected]

650.666.2753

Tim Brons

Vida Strategic Partners (media)

646-319-8981

[email protected]

SOURCE Vivace Therapeutics, Inc.
DALLAS FORT WORTH, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Royal House Partners ("RHP") a leading provider of residential and commercial HVAC, plumbing and electrical services in Texas, Missouri and Oklahoma receives investment from Toronto-based CPS Capital to close their first 10 acquisitions over the last 90 days.

RHP was founded in 2021 by CPS Capital, a Toronto-based investment firm, and 1801 Holdings, a Dallas-based group of seasoned home services professionals, who have spent a considerable amount of time developing a residential and light commercial HVAC, plumbing and electrical roll-up strategy. Paul Adams (Chief Growth Officer), Eric Shaw (Chief Integration Officer), Joe Williams (Chief Financial Officer), Mike Herrick (Director of Systems & Integration), and Gregette Smith (Director of Business Services) form RHP's management team. CPS Capital will be actively involved in supporting management execute on its strategy and will be led by Jeff Tung (Partner), Jason Fenn (Partner) and Mike Greenwood (Vice-President). Mike was a former Associate with Brookfield Asset Management where he was intimately involved within the home service space through Brookfield's strategic acquisition of Service Experts and Enercare, two of North America's largest home service providers.

As a leadership team, we have spent the last decade acquiring businesses in the HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical & Home Services space. We understand what goes through the mind of the seller. We strive to not only maintain the legacy and reputation built by the seller but improve it by providing significant resources and infusing growth capital. We know what it means to construct a well thought out strategy for the business long-term and we have a value proposition for the employees that is meaningful but more importantly sustainable. Our openness to work with smaller businesses owners for the right deal reasonates and is evident in the most recent transactions.

The addition of Austin-based Green Leaf AC & Heating and Brian's Heating & Cooling, Missouri-based Anton's Air Conditioning and Heating and Oklahoma-based Terry's American, Baxter Electric, City Plumbing, Dahl Heat & Air, Treece & Rhines, Metro Service Company and Southern Comfort Heating & Air), now gives RHP a sound footing in the Mid-South & Southwest.

Paul Adams, Chief Growth Officer & Founder of RHP, notes "We are so excited at the scale of what this remarkable team has been able to build in the last 3 months. Over the last 2 years we developed a home services thesis that matched well with CPS Capital's history of expertise driven results and together we are extremely proud to be able to bring together such a strong group of brands in such a short time period. We are so fortunate to have businesses led by amazing people and we look forward to growing both organically and inorganically."

Darwin Tanksley, General Manager Green Leaf AC & Heating, notes "There are few times in your life where you can be a part of something not only life changing but industry changing. Teaming up with Royal House Partners is just that. What we will be able to accomplish together will benefit our community and customers and most importantly improve the lives of our staff. People first isn't just a motto it's a daily way we conduct business! The investment they are making in our community is exactly what we needed. As a small business, this will allow us to handle more customers and serve a larger area but still being able to provide premier service and installation."

Brian Mathews, former owner, notes "I (Brian Mathews) am really looking forward to helping incorporate Brian's Heating and Cooling fully into the RHP family. They bring a lot in terms of experience and background that will help BHC continue to grow and thrive. It will be a tremendous opportunity for our employees to grow and our customers to receive even better service than we provided."

Terry Sorrells, former owner and now Regional Vice President RHP Oklahoma, notes "I am very excited to be working with RHP and being a key member of the growth team. Even though I sold my business I'm getting to chase my goal of being the biggest dealer in Oklahoma."

Craig Denton, former owner and now Regional Vice President RHP Missouri, notes "I chose to work with Royal House Partners because they take quick, direct action. Everyone I have worked with has been transparent throughout the entire process and easy to work with through negotiations. The entire team is smart, easy going and just down-to-earth good people. Our entire Anton's team is excited and looking forward to a very successful future with our partnership with RHP."

Twin Brook Capital Partners provided debt financing for the transaction.

HVAC businesses interested in joining the RHP team should contact Paul Adams [email protected] For more information about RHP, visit https://www.royalhousepartners.com/home

About CPS Capital:

CPS Capital is a lower middle market private equity firm, based in Toronto, founded by owner-operators who look to partner with business owners to realize their growth and transition goals. CPS Capital is focused on North American opportunities to invest in exceptional businesses in growing industries with attractive characteristics. We look to become value-added partners with every business we work with. We bring significant capability, expertise, and capital to provide business owners with an attractive option compared to traditional financial or strategic buyers.

For more information, please visit us at https://cpscapital.com/

SOURCE CPS Management Corp.
BJP leader Arun Singh on Thursday claimed that the party will get the advantage of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's clean image in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls as no allegation of corruption has been made against him like leaders of opposition parties.

The BJP's national general secretary claimed that the welfare of the poor has been given a priority by his party's government, which has ensured free ration to the needy, direct transfer of money in bank accounts of women, better law and order and the elimination of riots.

People have realised the difference, the BJP leader told reporters here, alleging that in the past, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati have been accused of corruption during their term as the state chief minister.

Allegation of corruption of even a single rupee has not be made against Adityanath, he said.

The party is bound to get the advantage of this in the Vidhan Sabha elections in the state, he said.

The BJP leader claimed that his party will sweep the polls, winning over 300 of 403 Assembly seats in the state.

He also reacted to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's criticism of the BJP government over the widening of the gap between the rich and the poor, saying nobody takes the leader seriously as he dubbed his statement as "immature".

Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, Gandhi alleged that the present government in the country has created two Indias, one for the rich and the other for the poor.

The leader had also criticised the government's policy towards China.

Attacking the Congress leader, Singh said whenever Gandhi speaks, he lowers the prestige of the country.

The Congress leader should disclose the amount Rajiv Gandhi Foundation has received from China, the BJP leader asked.

(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.)
There is an old saying among sculptors that to find the art in a block of stone, you must chip away everything that isnt the art.

Similarly, it may be said of jury deliberations in a capital murder trial: To find a just decision, chip away at everything that isnt justice. Remove prejudice. Remove impatience. Remove preconceived notions. Remove racism.

Easier said than done.

This Friday, Theatrikos Theatre Company kicks off its 50th season with a production of the timeless classic 12 Angry Jurors. The production, originally a teleplay written in 1954 by Reginald Rose as Twelve Angry Men, was later adapted for the stage and to be more inclusive and diverse in casts throughout the years.

Were talking about our democratic way, said production director Bob Yowell, retired professor emeritus of Theatre at Northern Arizona University who has more than 50 years of experience. Everybody has a right to a trial by jury, and its the prosecutions duty to prove guilt.

In the case of 12 Angry Jurors, the prosecution presented evidence to 12 average citizens in a capital murder trial, where a young man is accused of stabbing his father to death. If the jury finds the prosecution proved the case beyond a reasonable doubt, they must find the young man guilty of the crime.

Chris Verrill, executive director of Theatrikos, said the production was chosen after the Artistic Committee went to audience members from years past and asked them which productions they would like to see again as part of the 50th season.

Were bringing back the best of the best for 50 years, Verrill said. This one was near the top of the list.

Yowell said he was excited to direct the play. Hes a big fan of the film, which features Henry Fonda, among others, because it hits on so many societal narratives of the country that were highly relevant then and continue to be highly relevant now.

This has been done all over the world, because its a great script, Yowell said. Its about democracys fragility and how thoughtful people must bravely work to preserve and protect it.

The production stars Jan Rominger as the jury foreman, Amanda Delano as Juror 2, Suzanne Casale as Juror 3, Linda Sutera as Juror 4, Mackenzie Johnson as Juror 5, Emily Dale as Juror 6, AJ Maniglia as Juror 7, Lisa Jayne as Juror 8, Sel Wasson as Juror 9, Chris Verrill as Juror 10, Lina Wallen as Juror 11, Mark Dessauer as Juror 12 and Austin Aslan as the Guard. During rehearsals, cast and crew have been wearing masks, but they will perform without masks during performances.

The premise is this: When the first vote is cast to determine the young mans guilt, 11 of the jurors vote to convict, and one juror, Juror 8, stands alone in a vote for acquittal. What ensues is an exploration of how the system can be prevented from working for justice when personal agendas  instead of the evidence presented by the prosecution - are brought to bear.

Its definitely very tense, Lisa Jayne, who plays Juror 8, said. Its a delicate asking of questions to get people to question their motives.

Through the course of the play, votes change, tempers flare, and the ugliness of racism raises its head. The main thrust of the guilty verdict consistently remains with Juror 3, played by Suzanne Casale.

She has baggage that colors her life, Casale said of her character. There is a preconceived notion of guilt. A poor, urban minority  from that background, hes more than likely guilty.

Jayne said the play, although it was written more than five decades ago, is relevant today.

Even when people are faced with facts, it is difficult to change their minds and reach through the biases, Jayne said. I think the whole time Im doing this, it feels so pertinent to ... now.

Casale said, Its an important theme of justice and injustice, prejudices and how peoples bigotry can come into play when making judgments about life and death.

Jan Rominger, who plays the Jury Foreman, likens the character to a referee.

How a group of people can start off in disagreement and then turn that disagreement into a consensus, this is very relevant to today, where were so divided, Rominger said.

Yowell and Rominger lauded the ensemble cast and their passion for their roles.

I hope the audiences love the ensemble element, in that weve all rehearsed together for every rehearsal, which is unusual, Rominger said.

Yowell added, The final analysis is ambiguous. Theres no Hollywood ending here.

12 Angry Jurors" will run Friday, Jan. 28 through Sunday, Feb. 13. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. at the Doris Harper-White Community Playhouse, 11 W. Cherry Ave. Tickets are $20 to $26 and purchasers must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test conducted 72 hours prior to the event. Masks are required. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit https://theatrikos.com.
J&J and Drug Distributors to Pay $589 Million Settlement to Native American Tribes Over Opioid Crisis

Johnson & Johnson (J&J) and three of the nations largest drug wholesalers and distributors have agreed to pay $589 million in settlement after hundreds of native tribes accused the companies of fueling the opioid crisis in their communities.

The three pharmaceutical distributorsCardinal Health, AmerisourceBergen Corp., and McKesson Corp.will pay more than $439 million in settlement over seven years. The Janssen-owned Johnson & Johnson has agreed to pay $150 million over two years.

The plaintiffs accused J&J of understating the addiction risks of opioids in its marketing campaign, and accused the distributors of letting addictive painkillers be diverted into illegal channels, according to court filings (pdf).

The native tribes, represented by the Tribal Leadership Community, stated in court filings that tribal governments have had to spend considerable tribal funds to cover the costs of the opioid crisis including costs for health care, social services, child welfare, law enforcement, and other government services which has imposed severe financial burdens on the plaintiffs.

Were not solving the opioid crisis with the settlement, but we are getting critical resources to tribal communities to address the crisis, stated Steven Skikos, a lawyer for the tribes, in a telephonic court hearing, according to Reuters.

J&J told Reuters in a statement that it did not admit wrongdoing in the settlement and that the company was appropriate and responsible in its role of promoting opioid pain relief prescription medications.

This follows a 2019 lawsuit in which the drug distributors agreed to pay $75 million to resolve similar claims made by Cherokee Nation, one of the largest Cherokee tribes recognized by the federal government.

A 2016 report (pdf) released by the National Congress of American Indians found that American Indians suffered the highest rate (8.4 overdose deaths per 100,000 people) of opioid overdoses, followed by whites (7.9 overdose deaths per 100,000 people).

All 574 federally recognized tribes will be able to receive money from the settlements even if they had not filed the lawsuits, according to Tara Sutton, an attorney for the tribes, in a Feb. 1 statement to The Wall Street Journal.

The settlement comes a week after 44 U.S. states agreed to a $26 billion settlement proposed by the three drug distributors and J&J to resolve thousands of similar lawsuits accusing the companies of fueling the opioid epidemic.

The Epoch Times has reached out to Cardinal Health, AmerisourceBergen Corp., McKesson Corp., and Janssen for comment.
Coillte and the Environmental Education Unit (EEU) of An Taisce have announced the delivery of six new An Choill Bheags (little woodlands) in primary and secondary schools across Ireland, one of which will be based in Offaly located in Ballyboy NS, Kilcormac, Offaly.

Furthermore, there are a further five outdoor classrooms located in counties: Donegal, Kerry, Wicklow and Dublin, with two Wicklow schools selected.

An Choill Bheag (AnCB) is a long-term educational programme, an initiative of LEAF Ireland and the EEU of An Taisce. The aim of the initiative is to create small, dense native woodland habitats for biodiversity and an educational and recreational resource for the whole school community to enjoy.

Coillte is providing the native trees (including such species as oak, alder, wild cherry, rowan, scots pine, willow and whitethorn among others) for the students to plant and is funding the programme. The staff of the EEU and An Taisce will create the little woodlands in collaboration with students and staff in the six schools. Students are encouraged to connect with woodland culture and biodiversity to understand their benefits to society, climate change, biodiversity and their local economy.

We are truly delighted to be working with LEAF Ireland and An Taisce to deliver this fantastic outdoor educational resource for schools and their students, said Paul Jordan, Regional Manager, Coillte Forest.

The An Choill Bheag initiative enables students to learn about the wonderful benefits that trees and forests offer in a fabulous outdoor setting  be it tackling climate change, and providing biodiversity, recreational amenities, and wood to build our homes, he continued.

Rachel Geary from LEAF Ireland (EEU) said: Climate change and biodiversity loss are the biggest issues facing us. This collaborative initiative will provide an opportunity to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss at a community level by planting native trees with our schools across the country. Not only will we be planting trees, but we will also educate and raise awareness about the importance of trees and the multifunctional benefits of forests.

An Choill Bheag (little woodland) is an outdoor living classroom, which will bring small, dense, biodiverse native woodland habitats to school grounds.

Furthermore, as these woodlands develop, its envisaged that nature trails can be fostered and managed.
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Electric Heat Pumps May Fail to Heat Homes Adequately: UK Lawmakers

Electric heat pumps, a key element of the UK governments plan to reach its net-zero climate target, may not be able to heat homes adequately if the homes are not sufficiently insulated, a parliamentary committee has suggested.

The UKs Climate Change Committee (CCC) projects that by 2050 all heating in British homes will be provided by low-carbon sources, of which 52 percent will be heat pumps.

In November 2020, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced plans to install 600,000 heat pumps every year by 2028.

But in its latest report (pdf) published on Feb. 3, the Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee of the House of Commons admitted there are some potential problems with the plan to replace existing gas boilers with heat pumps.

Evidence was clear that for low carbon heating installations to work effectively and to heat homes adequately, properties need to be upgraded to the correct levels of energy efficiency, the report said.

The committee said failing to address the concerns could lead to scheme failure.

If people are encouraged to switch to low carbon heating sources without the knowledge or incentive for energy efficiency upgrades, then there are risks of scheme failure and loss of public trust if the new low carbon heating sources are not heating homes to the desired temperature and insulation, the report said.

Labour MP Darren Jones, who chairs the committee, said replacing gas boilers is a huge task and we are not making near enough progress.

Bill payers today are deeply worried about their energy costs, with many people struggling to afford to heat their homes. Most people dont realise that their gas boiler will need to be replaced within the next 10 to 15 years, he said.

What further complicates the matter is the high costs of installing and operating the heat pumps.

The cost of replacing a gas boiler with a heat pump may be as high as 15,00020,000 ($20,000$27,000), but the governments boiler replacement grants are only worth 5,0006,000 ($7,000$8,000).

Asking households to pay upwards of an extra 10,000, as part of the objective of net zero, to replace their existing home heating which is working perfectly adequately is a major challenge, the report admitted.

The committee also pointed out that the environmental levies disincentivises the switch to electrified low carbon heating solutions such as heat pumps, because the running costs are greater than a gas boiler.

Another emission-cutting strategy being considered by the UK government is mixing hydrogen into existing gas supplies.

The government said last year that it would work with industry to assess the safety, technical feasibility, and cost effectiveness of mixing 20 percent hydrogen into the existing gas supply.

But analysis from German research institute Fraunhofer IEE found that, if these plans go ahead, it could push up energy bills by 16 percent for homes, and by as much as 43 percent for industrial end-users.

The UKs National Audit Office (NAO) said in December 2020 that the governments commitment to achieving net zero by 2050 is a colossal challenge that could cost hundreds of billions of pounds.

Lily Zhou and PA Media contributed to this report.
Russia has advised the United States of America to use its influence on the Ukrainian authorities to force them to fully comply with the Minsk agreements instead of "forcing aggressive rhetoric" and "pumping" the Armed Forces of Ukraine with various types of weapons.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had, "at the initiative of the American side", held a telephone conversation with the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken on Tuesday where both sides discussed the possibilities for further work on security assurances.

"An exchange of views was continued on issues of providing legal guarantees for ensuring Russia's security in the context of the written reaction submitted by the US and NATO to the relevant draft international legal agreements submitted to them earlier," said the Russian Foreign Ministry in a statement.

"The Minister emphasised the imperative nature of our demands to faithfully adhere to the obligation of all OSCE countries not to strengthen their security at the expense of the security of others, including the non-expansion of NATO and the non-deployment of strike weapons near Russian borders," it added.

Moscow said that during the consideration of the bilateral agenda, Lavrov pointed out the unacceptability of "Washington's destructive line of restricting the activities of Russian diplomatic missions in the United States" and intensify the search for ways to remove these "irritants".

Russia on Tuesday also released the text of Lavrov's message "on the subject of the indivisibility of security", sent on January 28 to his counterparts from the US, Canada and a number of European countries.

The Kremlin revealed that it remains "seriously concerned" about the growth of military-political tension in the immediate vicinity of its western borders and the responses of the US and NATO to its proposals received on January 26, 2022 testify to "significant differences in the understanding of the principle of equal and indivisible security" fundamental to the entire European security architecture.

"That's not how things will work. The meaning of the agreements on the indivisibility of security lies in the fact that security is either one for all, or there is none for anyone. And, as stipulated in the Istanbul Charter, every OSCE participating state has an equal right to security, not just NATO members, who interpret this right as referring exclusively to members of the North Atlantic 'exclusive' club," Lavrov's message said.

The matter also came up for discussion during the Lavrov-Blinken telephone conversation.

"Today, I reaffirmed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken that we won't allow this issue to be dragged out. We will insist on honest conversations and explanations of why the West does not want to honour its commitments at all, or only selectively when it benefits them. Blinken agreed that this is a subject for another conversation. We will see how it goes," Lavrov told media in Moscow.

Russia on Thursday also slammed the overnight statement made by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on country's alleged use of "chemical weapons" and its "multiple invasions" of other states.

"The statement of the White House official representative is fundamentally false, aimed at demonising Russia in the eyes of the US public and the world community. The US has not backed up with any credible evidence its fantasies built on outright lies about the alleged use of chemical weapons by our country," said Anatoly Antonov, the Russian Ambassador to the United States, on Wednesday.

"Let me remind you that the United States remains the only country that has not yet fulfilled its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and has not eliminated national chemical weapons arsenals," added the Russian Ambassador.

Joining the large-scale retaliation from Moscow to Washington, the Russian embassy in London said that Great Britain is selling "decommissioned weapons" to Ukraine, "which can hardly ever be useful" to its armed forces.

According to the Russian news agency Tass, country's Ambassador to London Andrey Kelin said in an interview with the Solovyov Live YouTube channel that Ukraine is receiving military assistance, including weapons, from Western countries.

"Ukraine received two boats some time ago. There have been several flights from Britain to Ukraine with British-made Javelin analogs, a shorter modification with a shorter firing range... There will be little use for the Ukrainian armed forces from these supplies but they are basically meant to demonstrate London's 'solidarity' with

Kiev," the agency quoted Kelin as saying.
Fifty-six were released by on January 25, the government said on Thursday, insisting that both sides should ensure that there was no use of force against the fishing community under any circumstances.

Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said in Rajya Sabha that India attaches the highest priority to the safety and security of .

"On January 15, the external affairs minister discussed the issue of early release of in Sri Lankan custody during his virtual meeting with Finance Minister of Sri Lanka," he said.

As a result, 56 Indian fishermen were released by the Government of on January 25 and currently, there are no Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody," Muraleedharan said.

He was replying to a question on the matter.

The minister also said that the issue of fishermen was also taken up in Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's discussions with the Sri Lankan dignitaries when he visited that country in October.

"The need to deal with issues pertaining to fishermen in a humanitarian manner was reiterated to the government of Sri Lanka," Muraleedharan said.

"It was also stressed that existing understandings between the two Governments in that regard must be strictly observed and both sides should ensure that there was no use of force under any circumstances," he said.

The minister also said that both sides are in consultation for the early convening of the fifth round of Joint Working Group meeting on fisheries.

Muraleedharan said issues relating to Indian fishermen have been raised at the highest levels in including by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his Sri Lankan counterpart during the virtual bilateral summit held in September 2020.

There have been several alleged incidents in the past of Sri Lankan Navy personnel using force against Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait.

The Palk Strait, which is a narrow strip of water separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, is a rich fishing ground for fishermen from both countries.

To a separate question, Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi said that the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has been steadily increasing the number of cultural centres abroad.

She said the ICCR is in the process of opening two new cultural centres in Paris and Washington.

(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 United States "would not endorse" Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remarks in which he had alleged that the foreign policy decisions of the BJP-led government have brought all-weather allies China and Pakistan together against India, a top American diplomat has said.

"I will leave it to the Pakistanis and the PRC (the People's Republic of China) to speak to their relationship. I certainly would not - would not endorse those remarks," State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday in response to a question on Gandhi's comments in Lok Sabha.

Responding to another question in his press briefing, Price further said that the countries are not required to choose between the US and China.

"We've made the point all along that it is not a requirement for any country around the world to choose between the United States and China. It is our intention to provide choices to countries when it comes to what the relationship with the United States looks like.

"And we think partnership with the United States conveys a series of advantages that countries typically would not find when it comes to the sorts of partnerships that 'partnerships' may be the wrong term; the sorts of relationships that the PRC has seeked to has sought to have around the world, he said.

Interestingly, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday left for China to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics and also meet with top Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping.

The relations between the US and China are at an all-time low. The two countries are engaged in a bitter confrontation over various issues, including trade, Beijing's aggressive military moves in the disputed South China Sea and human rights in Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang region.

The state department spokesman described Pakistan, which has All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership with China, as a strategic partner of the United States and said, We have an important relationship with the government in Islamabad, and it's a relationship that we value across a number of fronts.

Pakistan-US ties are on uneven keel as despite efforts, President Joe Biden has not made a direct contact to Prime Minister Khan, irking the Pakistan government. Khan was also not invited for a key summit on environment.

Speaking first from the Opposition side in Lok Sabha during the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address on Wednesday, Gandhi said while the strategic goal of India has been to keep China and Pakistan apart, the government was doing the opposite.

"We have made huge strategic mistake in our foreign policy...you have brought China and Pakistan together, you have taken the concept of two different fronts and converted it into one unified front...It is very clear that the Chinese and the Pakistanis are planning. Look at the weapons they are buying, look at their activity, look at the way they are talking, look at who they are speaking too...," he said.

Now, we are not isolated. We have good relations with our neighbours and the foreign policy is not a failure. We have a foreign minister who spent all his life dealing with foreign policy issues: Former External Affairs Minister Natwar Singh pic.twitter.com/C8KrZvZHTD  ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2022

Pakistan has recently acquired a full squadron of 25 multirole J-10C fighter jets from its all weather ally China in response to India's purchase of Rafale aircraft.

Reacting to Gandhi's allegations, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tweeted, "Perhaps, some history lessons are in order: In 1963, Pakistan illegally handed over the Shaksgam valley to China. China built the Karakoram highway through PoK in the 1970s."



Jaishankar said from the 1970s, the two countries also had close nuclear collaboration.

"In 2013, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor started. So, ask yourself: were China and Pakistan distant then?" he questioned the Congress leader.

(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.)
When Armani Nightengale waited in the car last March to get vaccinated against COVID-19 at the United Center, her husband was more nervous than she was.

Over the next couple of weeks, he carefully checked her arm to make sure nothing looked wrong. Then, the conversation shifted to when he would get the shot.

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Thats when things got more combative, Nightengale said, as she began asking why he was reluctant, especially given that they had three young children. Her husband, on the other hand, felt unsure about how signing up for the vaccine would affect his immigration status.

But in December, after months of evolving conversations on the benefits of getting inoculated, he agreed.

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I was speaking as an African American woman who was born and raised in America; he is a white male from Europe, said Nightengale, a 26-year-old who lives in South Shore. So it was like, how do we combine these two conversations?

A vaccine recipient, left, talks with "vaccine ambassadors" Caesar Thompson and Armani Nightengale at an inoculation site at Richard J. Daley College in Chicago on Jan. 22. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune)

Nightengale is used to these high-stakes discussions as a member of the citys COVID-19 Community Response Corps, run by the Chicago Department of Public Health and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership. She is one of about 800 Chicagoans hired by the city for tasks ranging from contact tracing to monitoring the coronavirus hotline to promoting the vaccine through canvassing neighborhoods.

Sign up for The Spin to get the top stories in politics delivered to your inbox weekday afternoons.

All members are required to take a free class with CDPH and City Colleges of Chicago to learn effective messaging on COVID-19 vaccines. About 3,000 people have completed the two-hour vaccine ambassador course, hundreds of whom are part of the citys COVID-19 response team. Others are just ordinary residents from Chicago and elsewhere, said the citys public health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady.

The lesson covers the roots of vaccine doubt and its ties to historical racism in the U.S. medical field, as well as answers to vaccine questions and best practices for difficult conversations.

Arwady said its one way the city is equipping everyday Chicagoans to spark dialogue with unvaccinated loved ones who may be more likely to trust a familiar face versus a government official.

People who are vaccinated and boosted are far less likely to be hospitalized with or die from COVID-19.

If youre somebody whos already been vaccinated, great, but youre not done, Arwady said. We need you to talk about that with people.

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Starting the dialogue

Several COVID-19 response corps members spoke with the Tribune about tips they learned from both the vaccine ambassador course as well as their own experience with door-knocking and personal relationships. They agreed on approaching the discussions with a long-term mindset, keeping the tone respectful and knowing when to walk away from a combative atmosphere.

This conversation is not typically a one-time conversation, Arwady said. Its more important to keep those lines of communication open.

Nightengale said her first question when she meets a vaccine-hesitant person is, Why? Many times, people just desire someone to listen to their fears without bombarding them with immediate criticism, she said. Its also important to gauge where that distrust comes from because many times, itll surprise you.

You open up a dialogue, right? Its no shame, its no judgment. Nightengale said. A lot of times when youre able to validate them and give them a chance to speak, theyll also be willing to listen to you.

"Vaccine ambassador" Caesar Thompson wears buttons and an information lanyard while greeting vaccine recipients at Richard J. Daley College in Chicago on Jan. 22. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune)

Caesar Thompson, a COVID-19 response corps member, said he learned that some people are not resistant to the vaccine but indifferent toward it. The 44-year-old from South Deering said his predominantly working-class Chicago neighbors dont always have COVID-19 high on their list of concerns.

For example, several unvaccinated people Thompson met simply didnt know the city offered at-home appointments and as a result, they put off getting the shot because of transportation issues, he said.

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Maybe if you live in my neighborhood, you might not even have a job or even have health insurance, Thompson said. So you dont have a regular doctor. You dont have continuity of care. You dont have trust in doctors, and so youre much more susceptible to misinformation.

Dont fight fire with fire

Thompson also acknowledges that when it comes to close friends and family, its easy for a casual chat to escalate into an argument. When that happens, its important to take no for an answer.

Marisol Alfaro, a member of the COVID-19 response corps who works in West Lawn, said one method of staying calm is to not to take rejection personally.

If they say no, walk away, Alfaro, 46, said. Thats it, right? Dont fight fire with fire.

"Vaccine ambassador" Marisol Alfaro hands out gift bags to children getting vaccinated at Richard J. Daley College in Chicago's Ford City neighborhood on Jan. 22. Alfaro has also worked as a contact tracer. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune)

But such composure is often easier said than done for vaccinated Americans who believe they have done their part and are losing patience with the rest of the country. It doesnt help that being unvaccinated has morphed into a political identity either, Arwady said.

The way this has landed in the U.S. is indicative of, like, much deeper, larger problems in our political discourse, Arwady said about the topic of vaccination. But at the end of the day, we dont make progress by further polarizing the conversation.

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One strategy for tamping down emotions is to take conversations off social media, Arwady said. Although it may be tempting to directly comment on a negative post about vaccines, such a public spat usually leads to both sides digging in their heels.

As opposed to piling on to the Twitter thread or the Facebook feed or whatever, actually just reach out to the person, private message them, Arwady said.

Keeping the conversation going

Arwady said that above all, nothing is more persuasive than seeing others make the choice to be vaccinated first. She regularly strikes up conversations with strangers on the train and beyond about why she got the shot, and she said that has swayed some of them.

During one 2021 city event featuring CDPHs vaccination bus, one man asked for Arwadys autograph. She told him shed comply after he listened to her talk about the vaccine.

I was like, Im just going to be straight with you. I have been vaccinated myself, and I think its the most important thing to protect your health, Arwady said.

Later that day, he waved a fresh vaccine card in front of her face.

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I was like, You got to be kidding me, Arwady said. But you just never know.  You are doing the best you can if you can just keep having the conversation with people.

ayin@chicagotribune.com
The body of tech mogul John McAfee is still being held in a Spanish morgue seven months after his prison suicide, a new report has said.

It has also been reported that his daughter and his ex wife are locked in a legal fight over the corpse, that has been held since McAfee was found hanging in a Spanish cell on June 23 last year - hours after his extradition to the US was approved.

Meanwhile, a book detailing McAfee's almost fantastical globe-trotting exploits in his final years was released, with its contents being heavily denied by his family.

The body of tech mogul John McAfee (pictured in 2018) is still being held in a Spanish morgue seven months after his prison suicide, a new report has said

According to MarketWatch, it is unclear to those who were closest to McAfee - who was once worth $100 million - why his body has not yet been released.

It is believed that his body is being held either in or near Barcelona while a Spanish judge continues to conduct a cause-of-death investigation.

While in some countries, cause of death investigations are carried out and determined by coroners, in Spain death reports are issued under a court system that is presided over by a judge.

But as was so often the case with McAfee before he died, the situation remains shrouded in mystery, with MarketWatch saying they received no response from the Spanish court when contacted.

Two separate groups from McAfee's family - one including his ex wife Janice McAfee and the other his daughter named only as 'Jen' for her privacy - have reportedly petitioned the judge to take possession of his body.

Jen reportedly wanted the body of her father to be cremated and shipped to the U.S. but has since given up on her claim to prevent further delays to her father's burial.

It has also been reported that his daughter and his ex wife Janice (pictured with McAfee) are locked in a legal fight over the corpse, that has been held since McAfee was found hanging in a Spanish cell on June 23 last year - hours after his extradition to the US was approved

It is not public knowledge exactly why Janice wishes to gain possession of the mogul's body, but a report in July 2021 from Money Trading Club claimed the dispute was related to inheritance.

In addition to authorities, the question of McAfee's estate is also of interest to his family, including Janice, who insists that his death may not have been a suicide, as Spanish authorities found.

The report also said that Janice McAfee at first claimed to be his wife, despite them being divorced, while the daughter - said to be from McAfee's first marriage and now in her 50s - claims to be his only biological daughter, despite McAfee previously claiming to have at least 47 descendents.

According to MarketWatch, Joy Athanasiou - the lawyer for McAfee's daughter Jen - wanted to have the issue over the body wrapped up by 2021.

However, negotiations are said to have faltered when neither team of legal representatives could reach Janice McAfee.

British-born McAfee - who put his name to the worlds first commercial anti-virus software - had previously been dubbed the craziest man in tech'.

The prime minister of Belize, where McAfee became an international fugitive and built a fortress home, put it more bluntly, calling him bonkers.

He revealed the extent to which he blew through his fortune in interviews with Mark Eglinton, an author who wrote a book about the eccentric millionaire's attempt to flee arrest by U.S. federal agents.

According to Eglinton's book, John McAfee blew his $100 million fortune on 'bizarre' mansions and really was broke when he died in the Spanish prison.

John McAfee, creator of the famous commercial antivirus software McAfee, appears via videoconference during his extradition hearing at Audiencia Nacional court in Madrid last year

Eglinton, who collaborated with McAfee for six months while he was on the run from authorities, told DailyMail.com last year that he believed McAfee was indeed penniless, citing his personal experience with the outlaw and extensive interviews with him.

Eglinton, whose book No Domain: The John McAfee Tapes documents his extensive interviews with the outlaw, said McAfee was unable to pay what he requested for the planned collaboration, which will be authored by Eglinton solely.

'I don't doubt that if he could have helped he would have,' Eglinton said of the modest advance fee he requested. 'He said, "I can't do it, my financial situation is worse than yours."'

Eglinton is the author of a book about McAfee, titled No Domain - The McAfree Tapes (pictured)

McAfee was arrested at the Barcelona airport in October 2020 on a warrant issued by prosecutors in Tennessee who were seeking up to three decades of imprisonment for allegedly evading more than $4 million in taxes.

The day before he was found dead, Spain's National Court had announced that it was agreeing to his extradition to the U.S. but the decision was not final.

'We had a plan of action already in place to appeal that decision,' Janice McAfee told reporters at the time. 'I blame the U.S. authorities for this tragedy: Because of these politically motivated charges against him my husband is now dead.

'I don't believe he did this, I will get answers,' she said.

The couple met in 2012 in Miami and married the following year. John McAfee had several children from previous relationships, Janice McAfee said.

The entrepreneur had not been connected with the companies that took over the antivirus software he built after he sold his shares in the 1990s. That early success had made McAfee rich and followed him in his troubled biography.

In 2012, he was sought for questioning in connection with the murder of his neighbour in Belize, but was never charged with a crime. The controversy didn't stop him from making long-shot runs for the U.S. presidency starting in 2016.

But it was his more recent tax problems that kept him away from the U.S., the country where the British-born entrepreneur was raised and had built his early success.

The Tennessee prosecutors' indictments from 2020 showed that the tycoon allegedly failed to declare income made by promoting cryptocurrencies, attending speaking engagements and selling the rights for a documentary on his eventful life.

McAfee's social media postings indicated that he had chosen a northeastern Spanish coastal resort town as his base in Europe at least since late 2019.

McAfee, once worth $100 million, really was broke when he died in a Spanish prison, according to an author who collaborated with him

The National Court judge said John McAfee had provided no evidence to back his allegations that he was being politically persecuted.

Spanish authorities insist that there was no evidence of foul play, but McAfee's previous tweets that he would never take his own life 'a la Epstein' have fueled conspiracy theories.

'I am content in here. I have friends. The food is good. All is well. Know that if I hang myself, a la Epstein, it will be no fault of mine,' McAfee tweeted on October 15.

Furthermore, just minutes after his death was reported, his official Instagram account posted an image of the letter 'Q' - in an apparent reference to QAnon.

Some wild conspiracy theories have since emerged including the idea the tech guru activated a so called 'dead man's switch' to expose the government.

The mysterious 'Q' post shared to McAfee's Instagram minutes after his death could indicate a hidden encryption, the theorists suggest.

A 'dead man's switch' is activated when the device's owner dies.

For confidential support in the UK, call the Samaritans on 116123, or go to samaritans.org. For confidential support in the US, call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255.
SALISBURY TWP., Pa. | A Lehigh County man and his dog are dead after a house fire in Salisbury Township that occurred late Tuesday night.

Neighbors say 47-year-old Daniel Knotts moved in last summer. He died Wednesday morning just after midnight when his home caught on fire.

"It was burning pretty good in the back, the way it looked," commented neighbor Glenn Miller. "Smoke was coming out."

Miller says this was around 11 p.m. Tuesday on the 1300 block of Byfield street.

Fire crews say Knotts was trapped inside. Once he was found, life saving measures were taken to save him. However, Knotts later died at St. Luke's Hospital in Bethlehem. His dog died as well.

"It's terrible, it's heart wrenching, not a good thing," Miller said.

"I was sitting in the living room playing and he came down and knocked on the door and said hey I heard someone playing, I said come on in," said OT Mayo.

The guitar player says that was the first time he met Knotts while the pair both lived at an apartment building. However, Knotts moved into the new home nearby last summer.

"That was one of his dreams, he spoke about it a lot," Mayo recalled.

The death is a devastating loss for Mayo, who says he last saw his friend at a Fourth of July party at the home.

"I was playing and he sang in his backyard, it was festival kind of thing, it was nice," Mayo said.

A cause of the fire is still under investigation. Knotts will have an autopsy done on Thursday, officials say.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Salisbury Township Police Department at 610-797-1447 or Lehigh County Radio at 610-437-5252.
Feb. 3SALEM, N.H.  It wasn't ideal, but just over three weeks removed from a three-goal loss to to his team's archrival, Andover boys hockey coach Kevin Drew wasn't going to complain about a tie.

"It was a great effort," said Drew. "We knew we were going to be the underdogs against Central Catholic. We really competed, and we'll take the tie. You don't want a tie, but I'm very happy to get the point (in the standings). Our goalie had a strong game, and their goalie played very well, too."

Behind stellar efforts for goalies Michael Brothers (25 saves) of Central Catholic and JJ Quill (28 saves) of Andover, the Raiders and Golden Warriors played to a 1-1 overtime tie on Wednesday at the Salem ICenter.

Central won the previous matchup 4-1 on Jan. 8. The Raiders also won both matchups last year, 4-2 and 4-1

"We had a hard time gaining momentum with the puck and we took too many penalties today," said Central coach DJ Conte. "Their goaltender did a great job controlling the puck. Our goalie was also very solid. He's a senior captain and stops a lot of pucks to keep us in games."

After three years of facing off in the rivalry, senior netminders Brothers and Quill embrace the head-to-head battles.

"JJ had an amazing game today," said Brothers. "Me and JJ have been going back-and-forth for years. After the game he was joking around with me. It's a great rivalry. We're good friends off the ice. We keep it loose. We just formed a bond competing against each other over the years."

Both goalies came up with some huge saves late on Wednesday. Brothers made a few massive stops at the end of regulation. His best was a pad save, then using his stick to knock away the loose puck that was just inches from the goal line.

Central delivered a pair of fierce attacks in the final two minutes of overtime, but Quill was there to preserve the tie. One shot looked destined for the top right corner of the net, but Quill used his shoulder to knock it away.

Story continues

"Being on the smaller side, I have to rely on my athleticism to bail me out of some spots," said the 5-foot-6 Quill recently. "I have to look around and get to a spot faster, where a taller goalie might rely on height and length. I have to be speedy, flexible and athletic."

Andover took the lead with 3:30 left in the first period. Tyler Lareau played the puck into the zone to Carter Hillson, who fired a pass to Jonnty Lynch, who slid it into the net.

Central Catholic evened the score with 8:34 left in the second. Aiden Pinet sent a pass out in front of the net to defenseman Cam Marzilli, who blasted home a slap shot high glove side.

Both teams had some opportunities from there, but the goalies would not relent.

"JJ and Brothers always battle back-and-forth," said Drew. "They're good friends. It's always a big game for both guys. JJ worked very hard to get ready for this one. We are confident anytime JJ is out there, and I'm sure their goalie was ready too."

Andover 1, Central Catholic 1 (OT)

Andover (6-6-1): 1 0 0 0  1

Central Catholic (6-5-2): 0 1 0 0  1

Goals: A  Jonny Lynch; CC  Cam Marzilli

Assists: A  Carter Hillson, Mike DiCenzo; CC  Aiden Pinet, Charlie Winship

Saves: A  JJ Quill 28; CC  Michael Brothers 26

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A judge delivered a double whammy to the defendants in the Gov. Gretchen Whitmer kidnap case Wednesday, concluding that jurors will not hear about the checkered pasts of three FBI agents who investigated them.

But the jury will hear about the criminal pasts of the defendants.

In a 27-page order, Chief U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker delivered a series of blows to the defense as he detailed what will be allowed at trial, limiting what it can say about its entrapment claims, and how the FBI agents allegedly set their clients up.

This photo shows from top left, Kaleb Franks, Brandon Caserta, Adam Dean Fox, and bottom left, Daniel Harris, Barry Croft, and Ty Garbin. A federal judge on Friday, Sept. 17, 2021, said he would postpone the Oct. 12 trial of five men accused of planning to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Three controversial FBI agents have played a key role in the case, though the prosecution convinced the judge to keep the agents' characters out of trial, arguing it doesn't plan to use the agents as witnesses anyway.

One is a convicted felon who was kicked off the case after he was charged with assaulting his wife following a hotel swingers party.

Another ran a side business. The defense claims that agent had a financial stake in the outcome of the Whitmer case, and accused him of using it to drum up business for his new security firm.

A third was accused of perjury in a prior, unrelated case. The defense argued that the agent's ability to be truthful was relevant, and warranted further inquiry.

But the prosecution maintained that the agents' behavior and pasts are irrelevant to the case, and could mislead or confuse the jury.

The judge agreed.

"What little value there is in the evidence is substantially outweighed by the chance of confusing the jury and needlessly lengthening trial into a minitrial on public perceptions of the FBI," Jonker wrote in his order.

Jonker did, however, rule that the jury can hear about the defendants' criminal histories after prosecutors successfully argued that the information is relevant to the case. Prosecutors argue that in order to rebut an entrapment defense, they have to prove that the defendants had a "predisposition" to committing kidnapping conspiracy.

Story continues

Their criminal backgrounds do just that, prosecutors argued, so the judge is letting them in.

"Criminal history is very much a factor in this calculus," Jonker wrote.

Here is what the jurors will hear about the defendants' pasts:

Barry Croft, a Delaware truck driver whom prosecutors describe as a bomb maker, was convicted in 1994 of conspiring to steal cars and burglarize an apartment complex. In 1997, he pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony.

Kaleb Franks, of Waterford, was convicted in 2014 of second-degree home invasion.

Daniel Harris, of Lake Orion, is accused of making an illegal sawed-off shotgun in August 2020.

In September 2020, Franks and Harris allegedly conspired to manufacture

unregistered ghost guns to sell to a convicted felon.

More: New details released in Whitmer kidnap case: An FBI informant may help the defense

More: Judge tells Whitmer kidnap suspect he's asking for too much information

Jonker, meanwhile, also ruled that the defendants cannot use at trial numerous recorded statements by informants who were embedded in their group. Nor can they use some of their own statements that were captured in recordings in their defense.

The judge ruled the recorded statements were hearsay. He did, however, allow the defense to admit statements that were made by various FBI agents, who the defense claims set their clients up.

Five men are charged with plotting to kidnap Whitmer out of anger over her COVID-19 restrictions. Prosecutors allege the men met in secret for months in the basement of a vacuum shop outside Grand Rapids, where the man accused of being the ringleader, Adam Fox, lived.

The defendants were arrested in October 2020 in an FBI sting at an Ypsilanti warehouse.

The defendants maintain that they never wanted to kidnap the governor, nor ever agreed to, and that the plan was hatched by the FBI.

The defendants allege the FBI planted the kidnapping idea into their heads, egged them on with hateful Whitmer comments and induced them into saying and doing things they otherwise wouldn't. They also allege that they were only role playing and engaged in tough talk, which, they claim, is protected free speech.

The prosecution disagrees, arguing the men did more than talk about kidnapping Whitmer, but took actual steps to carry out their plan, including: they cased her vacation house twice; they drew maps; bought night goggles and spoke in encrypted chat rooms so as not to get caught.

The government has a star witness in the case: Ty Garbin, a sixth defendant who cut a deal early on, pleaded guilty, got six years in prison, and is planning to testify against the others.

The case is scheduled to go to trial on March 8.

Contact Tresa Baldas: tbaldas@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Jury in Whitmer kidnap trial will not hear about the bad acts of 3 FBI agents
Admiral Pierre Vandier, chief of the French Navy, is on a fence-mending visit to the US this week. It is the first high-level military contact between US and French military leaders.

Things turned sour last year after the Australia, the UK and the US formed the Aukus "trilateral security partnership" on 15 September, resulting in Canberra dumping an 8 billion dollar French submarine deal in favor of an American company.

Political fences were mended during the G-20 meeting in Rome at the end of October, when French President Emmanuel Macron and his US counterpart Joe Biden "reaffirmed their support for strengthening the Nato-EU strategic partnership".

The news came in an joint statement that underscored "the strength of the longstanding and historic relationship" between the two countries.

According to Pierre Morcos, a visiting fellow with the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington DC and author of the study "France: A Bridge between Europe and the Indo-Pacific?" Vandier's trip aims to reboot France's cooperation with the US Navy, and increase French-US cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

Paris and Washington managed to overcome the (Aukus) crisis and to come out stronger, he says.

"Overall the submarine setback did not alter the day-to-day military cooperation between the French and US armed forces, which was always excellent."

However the French-Australian relationship remains poor after the submarine fallout hampered growing momentum between France and countries of the Quadrilateral Dialogue  the US, Japan, India and Australia  who were involved in joint excercises.

The loose was alliance designed to reign in the perceived growth of China's assertiveness in the South China Sea.

Clearly, the strategic partnership between Paris and Canberra is now limited because of these political tensions, says Morcos.

Patrolling the Black Sea

But the submarine spat is just a lover's quarrel: the allies have larger problems at hand.

According to the US State Department, Russia has gathered over 100,000 troops along the border of Ukraine, while Moscow announced it will start joint military exercises with Belarus from February 10-20.

There is growing fear in the US and its allies that Russia, in spite of Moscow's denials, may have plans to invade Ukraine.

As a counterweight, said Admiral Vandier at a CSIS online interview on Monday, a French carrier group will be deployed later this month in the Mediterranean, and some will cross through the Dardanelles into the Black Sea.

Russian ships are also active in the Mediterranean as Moscow has a port in the Syrian city of Tartus. The French deployment will be a signal towards Russia, according to Morcos, that the Mediterranean is an important and strategic area for France and its allies.

Going into the Black Sea, home to Russia's Black Sea Fleet that headquarters at the Crimea Peninsula  snatched away from Ukraine in 2014  maybe an even stronger signal.

It is aimed at reassuring Nato allies in that region, which are at the forefront of the current tensions with Russia, and to showcase Nato's presence in the Black Sea, says Morcos.

However, ships that don't belong to countries that aren't bordering the Black Sea can only stay for 21 days, according to the 1936 Montreux Convention, which was designtedto avoid a concentration of naval power in that part of Europe.

Cruising the Pacific

On the other side of the world, France is suspicious about China's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.

The Indo-Pacific region is critical for France because it is an Indo-Pacific nation, according to Morcos. Overseas territories cover islands such as Mayotte, Tahiti and vast expanses of water.

We have more than 1.6 million citizens living there, so this is a question of national security and sovereignty.

Recently, France took part in joint exercises with India and Japan in the region.

The goal is to balance the growing Chinese presence in the region and to signal to Beijing that, like many countries across the region, we are willing to compete with China and to enforce the rule-based order.

But all the maneuvering costs money.

Vandier complained that he had seen the French navy budged halved during his more than 30 year long career. It now lacks certain naval assets [going into] the future despite operational demands that it remains a strong global presence, he says.

Main areas of competition between global powers are maritime, cyberspace and space, Vandier says, pointing out that oceans are closely linked to cyberspace as they host the crucial undersea data cables connecting the global internet.

The alarm bell was first heard with the 2013 French White Paper on Defence and National Security, which mapped out the areas of concern.

Only five years ago, French authorities acknowledged that budget cuts were not sustainable according to Morcos, as they caused continuous restraints. The trend was reversed and Jane's Defence Weekly reported that France has continued to raise defence spending.

The 2022 budget approved by the Council of Ministers in September will reach 40.9 billion euros, a 1.7 billion euro increase over 2021, with 23.7 billion for equipment, 12.6 billion for salaries, and 4.6 billion for operating costs.

In addition, 1.2 billion euros will be reserved for overseas operations, mainly 'Barkhane' in Africa.

But even with this boost, says Vandier, gaps will not be filled until 2029. He added that across-the-board modernisation of France's Navy would require a long-term high-level of investment to keep pace with competitors' technological advances.

That will require choices, he said.
WASHINGTON  Susan Rice, the White House domestic policy adviser, called the leaders of the nations largest policing groups last month to promise a significant reset in their relationship as the Biden administration finished an executive order on police reform, a move that averted a potential breach that had been brewing for months, according to several people briefed on the calls.

The groups welcomed Ms. Rices outreach, which amounted to a vow to incorporate more of their thinking in the order and possibly an implicit mea culpa. The White House had solicited input from the groups, but had not engaged with them on substance and details; their frustrations only soared in the days before her phone calls, when they were blindsided by the leak of an 18-page draft executive order that contained language they found objectionable.

Ms. Rices course correction dovetails with a broader shift in the White House toward a more centrist stance on policing as violent crime rises. And it underscores President Bidens struggle to satisfy civil-rights groups, whose cries for reform hit a fever pitch after the murder of George Floyd at the hands of the police in May 2020, while blunting critics who say Democrats are soft on crime.
Governor R N Ravi has returned to the state government, an Assembly bill seeking exemption to the state from the Entrance cum Eligibility Test (NEET), saying it went against the interests of rural and economically poor students.
Days ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday took a jibe in a cryptic message at the Opposition and said that there are 84 Yogasans in total out of which the ruling BJP government has done 83 in the form of development and the remaining one was left for the Congress, Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party to do "Sirsasan". Addressing a rally here, Singh said, "After BJP came to power 'Vikas Yoga Aasan' is prevalent in UP. Jab Hoga Kanoon ka Shaasan Tab Karega Vikas Yoga Asana (When there will be a rule of law, then there will be development). Law and order have been so good in Uttar Pradesh now, that 83 out of 84 Yogasan is being done through 'vikas' (development) here. We have left one Yogasan for the Opposition. You know which Yogasan is left for them. We have left Sirsasan for them." Singh further lauded the law and order situation in the state under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and said that no mafia dares to walk boldly on streets today. "Since there has been a government of Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh, no mafia has dared to walk on the streets boldly. They have accepted to go to jails. They have surrendered willingly at the police stations. Strict law and order is the first condition of development," he said. Uttar Pradesh assembly elections will be held in seven phases from February 10 to March 7. The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held on February 10, 14, 20, 23, 27 and March 3 and 7. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

ANOTHER Manitoban has gone to Lithuania for surgery, rather than wait months or even years for a local knee replacement operation.

Meanwhile, retiree Max Johnson, who got his left knee replaced last year at the same Lithuanian facility on his own dime, has been told by the provincial government it is not going to reimburse him for the procedure.

Betty Craig, 71, returned to Winnipeg almost two weeks ago, after getting her right knee replaced at the Nordorthopaedics Clinic.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Max Johnson after coming back from Lithuania in November, where he underwent knee surgery.

I was actually surprised we considered it, but then we talked to Max, she said Wednesday. If I could shorten the pain I was having I would do it. Were lucky we could afford to do it  but some people cant.

I didnt want to give up two years of activity waiting for surgery.

Doctors Manitoba has estimated more than 155,000 Manitobans are waiting for surgery and diagnostic tests.

The province has created a task force looking at ways of reducing the massive backlog which has built up, due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Craig was originally referred by her doctor in September 2020 for a knee replacement. She finally saw a surgeon in July 2021.

He said what would have been a nine-month wait is now an 18-month wait, said her husband, John. Then we were told it could be 21 months or more. Thats when we started looking for alternatives. Were in our 70s and didnt want to lose two years.

It was clear the only to end the pain was to go somewhere else.

The couple first looked in Canada, but then, after speaking to Johnson, they decided to go to Lithuania.

It cost 8,000 euros (more than $11,000), and a further 1,500 euros for both of them to stay at the rehabilitation clinic.

Thats compared to $30,000 at the clinic in Calgary with no rehab, John said. It was a significant difference.

The surgery was performed Jan. 6 and the couple were home Jan. 21. They praised both the physicians at the Lithuanian clinic and the results.

I have been in pain for years, and now the only pain I have is (post-) surgery pain and I know the surgery pain will go away, Craig said.

When they are able to travel internationally for pleasure again, it will be nice to not have to worry if a trip will be too active because of her knee, her husband said.

In hindsight, we should have gone earlier.

Johnson, who sent the province his $14,000 bill for knee surgery in November, said he received a rejection email from Manitoba Health and Seniors Care this week.

Mostly, I am angry, said the former owner of a local travel agency. Angry because the system that we have all paid into failed us  the waiting list  when we needed it, and the government seems content to leave us all in pain.

Obviously, travelling overseas is not a long-term solution. However, by taking personal responsibility, removing ourselves from the waiting list and solving our problems individually, we are punished. It really makes the system available only to the wealthy, which is wrong, Johnson said.

Two- or three-year waiting lists are wrong, simply wrong.

The rejection email says to get payment under the Health Services Insurance Act, a patient has to be a referral from a doctor, the treatment cant be adequately provided in Manitoba or elsewhere in Canada, and there must be prior approval.

Should a patient proceed with elective medical services outside of Canada without the prior approval of MHSC, the excluded services regulation precludes MHSC from providing coverage, said the email.

Johnson said he is extremely angry that, after three months of waiting, he received only a form letter.

My issues were simply swept aside and ignored, he said.

Our government is completely out of touch, has no plan for a solution to their own cutbacks leaving everyone in a very, very painful position.

They simply dont seem to care.

kevin.rollason@freepress.mb.ca
Photo taken on Feb. 3, 2022 shows the surging water of Fox River in the Westland district of South Island, New Zealand. A local state of emergency was declared for the Westland District, western part of South Island, by National Emergency Management Agency of New Zealand on Feb. 2, 2022. (Photo by Yang Liu/Xinhua)

WELLINGTON, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- A local state of emergency was declared for the Westland District, western part of South Island, by National Emergency Management Agency New Zealand on Feb. 2, 2022.

A record of 235 millimeters rainfall has been recorded in the past 24 hours in Fox Township in the region while MetService, the weather broadcasting agency of the country, predicted approximately up to 750 millimeters of rain could fall in the next few days.

MetService issued the red warning, the third time since 2019 for the whole country and the second for this region since last July, when almost half of Westport's residents were evacuated after major flooding inundated much of the town. But this time meteorologists said the situation could be worse.

MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris told local media that it would be a long period of heavy, persistent rain.

Westland District Council has begun preparing for flooding, and issued sandbags to residents and businesses in the lowest lying streets. 

A road is closed due to the wild weather at Fox Township in Westland district of South Island of New Zealand on Feb. 3, 2022. A local state of emergency was declared for the Westland District, western part of South Island, by National Emergency Management Agency of New Zealand on Feb. 2, 2022. (Photo by Yang Liu/Xinhua)

Photo taken on Feb. 3, 2022 shows the surging water of Fox River in the Westland district of South Island, New Zealand. A local state of emergency was declared for the Westland District, western part of South Island, by National Emergency Management Agency of New Zealand on Feb. 2, 2022. (Photo by Yang Liu/Xinhua)

Photo taken on Feb. 3, 2022 shows the surging water of Fox River in the Westland district of South Island, New Zealand. A local state of emergency was declared for the Westland District, western part of South Island, by National Emergency Management Agency of New Zealand on Feb. 2, 2022. (Photo by Yang Liu/Xinhua)
Covid-19: New tracker for shopping malls

Wits team develops social distancing and shopper behaviour tracker for malls.

Wits University innovators have developed a novel Wi-Fi-based solution for managing and monitoring foot count, social distancing and consumer behaviour in shopping malls. The solution uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to allow retail managers to make future predictions, improve security and deliver intelligence to stores about shopper behaviour.

Its inventor, Dominique Adams has been awarded R100 000 worth of support from Wits Enterprise towards developing the business so as to take the innovation to the next stage. This award was for the winning pitch of the latest Prospector@Wits course run by Wits Enterprise. Development of the Wi-Fi-based, AI-enabled solution began in 2020, shortly after the Covid-19 pandemic emerged in South Africa, triggering the concept for the social distancing tracking tool.

Adams explains; Our innovation stemmed from an existing product for Wi-Fi signals to monitor social distancing in public spaces. We engaged with stakeholders in the retail space to determine whether there was a need for a solution that, with the application of AI technology, would give them valuable insights into consumer behaviour and help them make predictions.

Combining Wi-Fi technology with AI, our tool allows mall managers to monitor the complex behaviour of people in real-time as well as predict their future behaviour. This gives stores data-based intelligence while providing mall management teams with an additional tool for enhancing security. Our tool also allows shopping malls to monetize from the deployment of Wi-Fi, and importantly obtain intelligent foot count and other data for strategic planning and evidence-based decision-making.

As an example, Adams says mall managers can measure the overall popularity of stores and see the length of time a shopper spends at a particular store. The data gathered from these measurements are valuable for establishing shopper behaviour and for informed decision-making and planning.

Adams DataConvergance team is developing the solution under the leadership of Professor Bruce Mellado from Wits Universitys School of Physics. Mellado is also part of iThemba LABS at the National Research Foundation, and leads the Technology Innovation Platform in Artificial Intelligence, which is a collaboration between Wits and iThemba LABS.

The team, consisting of data scientists and AI specialists, includes Xifeng Ruan, Kentaro Hyashi, Finn Stevenson and Benjamin Lieberman.

In developing the tool from scratch, they had to learn how to harness the large amount of data available from Wi-Fi systems and solve challenges around Wi-Fi signals bouncing off walls, the distortion of positioning of people and the complexity of terrains. In adapting the tool for shopping mall application, Adams recalls the biggest challenge being the reluctance of mall managers to assist with the market and needs analysis.

It has been a huge team effort. Being awarded the seed funding is a huge achievement for me as well as our team, a great reward for all the long hours spent. The knowledge gained through the Prospector@Wits course and the valuable guidance from my mentor, Dineo Masokoane, were critical contributions to the successful outcome of the project proposal.

Commenting on the solutions potential, Mellado says: Given the small number of businesses contemplating or already adopting AI, there is a huge opportunity for this solution to be successful in the retail environment. If the solution is successfully implemented, DataConvergence could be a trailblazer in the deployment of AI in the retail sector.

Ela Romanowska, Director of Innovation Support at WITS Enterprise says that this is another example of Wits Universitys response to providing solutions to societal needs, and is a worthy winner of the Prospector@Wits end of course pitch session.

Dineo Masokoane, Innovation Support Manager at Wits Enterprise, says: The solution will enhance data collection by exploiting and deriving greater benefits from the Wi-Fi availability in malls. This approach enlarges the scope of information available to management and planners to monetise their investment in Wi-Fi as well as optimise in-store strategy development.

The next steps for Adams and his team are to refine the prototype for the retail environment and develop a pilot in a real retail environment before full- and large-scale deployment in shopping malls.
Raid on Cissie Gool House traumatises residents

Monday's raid was not only a waste of police resources but conducted in a manner that humiliated the community and resulted in unlawful arrests

Less than one week after surviving a devastating fire, residents of Cissie Gool House in Cape Town had their homes forcefully raided by police. The raid has resulted in extensive damage to property and has traumatised residents who were threatened with firearms while they dressed or prepared for school. This waste of police resources is the latest in a series of attempts to harass and intimidate the community, which is represented by the Centre for Applied Legal Studies.

On Monday 31 January, at approximately 06h00 in the morning, occupiers of Cissie Gool House were confronted with a massive police presence which reportedly included a helicopter and mounted police unit. Police officers forced their way into the residents homes while many of them were still sleeping and undressed. The force of their entry and search damaged belongings as well as doors, locks and walls. Women who live in the building have reported feeling humiliated and traumatised after being threatened with guns while trying to get their children ready for school.

Close to 1,000 people live in Cissie Gool House, a building which previously housed the Woodstock Hospital and is now at the heart of the struggle for spatial decolonisation and equality in Cape Town. This is far from the first time residents have faced this type of harassment by authorities. In February 2021, the City of Cape Town sought the Western Cape High Courts permission to undertake a survey of the residents with the intention of having them removed from the building. Fortunately, the Court ordered the matter to be postponed to allow the residents to properly oppose the application with the assistance of their representatives at the Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS).

Many of our clients strongly oppose having representatives from the City access their homes. In spite of this, on 3 March 2021 around 30 police officers entered, searched and barricaded the building without producing a court order or warrant  violating the residents rights to privacy, dignity and safety and security. On 22 April 2021, the residents represented by CALS came to an agreement with the City, later made an order of court, which protects our clients privacy and ensures the survey process is carried out with dignity and their housing needs are prioritised.

The raid on Monday, which came less than a week after a number of families living in Cissie Gool House were affected by a fire in the building, has resulted in yet more pointless damage and trauma. While the search and seizure warrant listed drugs, unlicensed firearms and ammunition as the targets of the raid, only two people in a building of 1,000 occupants were arrested for the possession of drugs and none for possession of firearms or ammunition. The warrant includes marijuana in the list of drugs to be seized, despite the fact that its use for personal purposes has been decriminalised.

Even more troubling is the fact that five people were arrested unlawfully following questions around their immigration status. Since this was not covered by the warrant, these amount to unlawful arrests following a warrantless search of a private dwelling. Those arrested include a breastfeeding mother, who was separated from her baby and reportedly only permitted to nurse for a few minutes at a time while she was kept in detention. Most of those arrested have since been released on bail.

This has become a case of intersecting and compounding rights violations, says Basetsana Koitsioe, attorney at CALS. Our clients are simply trying to build a home and a community in this space, and yet they face continual harassment and intimidation at the hands of the authorities who are meant to serve and protect them. Not only was the police raid conducted in a destructive and harmful manner, it was a wasted effort. Surely the states limited resources could be put to better use.

Law enforcement may have a search warrant, but they continue to threaten us with eviction, says Karen Hendricks, resident at Cissie Gool House. The intimidation and humiliation law enforcement confronts us with is tantamount to constructive eviction. We wish to remind the City that to conduct an eviction, there must be a court order.

This is far from the first case of such conduct by officials employed by the City of Cape Town, continues Basetsana. In July 2020, video footage of a man being forced from his home by City officials while naked led the South African Human Rights Commission to take the matter to the High Court. The Court found that the Citys conduct was unlawful and unconstitutional, violating the rights of vulnerable people.

For more information, please contact:
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

IF Manitoba decides to allow presumed consent for organ donations, the government has been given a road map to follow.

The Manitoba Law Reform Commission released a 185-page report that explores how Manitoba could establish an opt-out system, such as Nova Scotias, instead of requiring people to opt in to give their consent for their organs and tissues to be posthumously donated.

The practical framework is hypothetical  the commissions work wasnt prompted by the government, and the province hasnt signalled that it will make legislative changes to its Human Tissue Gift Act that would presume all Manitobans consent to organ donation unless they state otherwise. The commission is not taking any stance on whether Manitoba should adopt a presumed consent system.

But if it does, the commission sets out 19 guidelines that it says should be included in legislation. It recommends Manitoba should set up a registry and allow people to easily update their consent or refusal on the registry when they apply for a health card or drivers licence, or visit a Manitoba Public Insurance location. The recommendations set out examples of situations in which presumed consent is inappropriate. It shouldnt be presumed for people under 18, for people whove lived in Manitoba less than a year, or for people who lacked the capacity to make their own decisions leading up to their death.

The report should be considered an informed opinion about the best approach for Manitoba if presumed consent is adopted, said Stefanie Goldberg, legal counsel for the Manitoba Law Reform Commission.

Weve done the background research of looking, and telling the government or interested parties, what is being done currently in Canada, Goldberg said. We put it all out there so that people can see how other provinces are approaching the matter currently, she added.

Weve considered what we think will or will not work.

An individual recommended the commission study the issue after Nova Scotia changed its legislation last year, and similar changes have been proposed in Quebec, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

TWO Manitoba men caught in a truck with a rifle and ammunition at the ready as they shone flashlights into a farmers field were found not guilty of night hunting.

A judge ruled she could not outright reject their claim they were just looking around.

Richard Gilbert Fontaine and Jeffrey Lohr-Mansbridge stood trial charged with hunting at night without a permit and hunting on private land without the owners permission.

Is it suspicious that Mr. Fontaine and Mr. Lohr-Mansbridge were driving around in the middle of the night with the light bar on and moving flashlights over the field? Yes, of course it is, provincial court Judge Catherine Carlson wrote in her decision acquitting the men.

In the circumstances, although Mr. Fontaine and Mr. Lohr-Mansbridge were more likely than not, hunting at the relevant time, that is not the criminal standard (of proof beyond a reasonable doubt), Carlson said.

Court was told Manitoba Conservation officers were patrolling an area near St. Labre, which is known to attract illegal night hunters, shortly after midnight on Nov. 10, 2020, when they saw the occupants of a pickup truck on a provincial road shining flashlights into a farmers field.

Officers pulled over the vehicle and found a .308-calibre rifle next to the drivers seat and four rounds of ammunition sitting on the centre console. In addition to flashlights, the officers seized a laser pointer, which court heard can be used to blind an animal before shooting it.

Indigenous people in southern Manitoba are allowed to hunt at night if they have a permit. Hunting on private land is allowed with the permission of the landowner. Court heard a no hunting/no trespassing sign was posted on the field where Fontaine and Lohr-Mansbridge were arrested.

Court heard no evidence any animals had been spotted in the area, but the two men could still be found guilty of hunting if it could be established they were searching for animals, Carlson said.

Fontaine, the owner of the truck and rifle, testified he had spent the previous day hunting without success on Crown land around Marchand. Later that evening, he and Lohr-Mansbridge, who Fontaine described as being along for the ride, drove up and down gravel roads looking for alfalfa fields. Fontaine said alfalfa fields are good hunting grounds and it was his intention, if they found one, to return later and ask the property owner for permission to hunt on it.

Carlson said Fontaine testified in a straightforward way, consistent with his claim he had finished hunting for the day.

While I cannot just say I believe Mr. Fontaines evidence that they were just looking to see if the fields had alfalfa in them and did not intend to shoot wildlife, even if they saw some that night, given all the circumstances, including that the rifle was not loaded, his evidence does leave me with reasonable doubt that they were hunting, Carlson said.

While it is certainly a reasonable inference from the evidence that the accused were indeed hunting, in my view, it is also a reasonable inference, although a less likely probable one, that they were indeed driving around, using lights to find future potential hunting spots, she said.

dean.pritchard@freepress.mb.ca
Observing that the state cannot be a party to misuse of police machinery, the Supreme Court Thursday stayed the criminal proceedings against a woman and took strong note of the filing of four FIRs against her after she accused Lok Insaf Party MLA of Punjab, Simarjeet Singh Bains, of rape.

A bench comprising Chief Justice N V Ramana and justices AS Bopanna and Hima Kohli was hearing two separate pleas filed by the lawmaker and the woman who had accused the MLA of raping her.

The top court, which stayed the judicial proceedings in four cases lodged against the woman, also extended by a week the protection against arrest to the Lok Insaf Party MLA.

The bench, during the hearing, was critical of filing criminal cases against the woman after she had moved the trial court alleging rape by the MLA.

What is happening in your state? How many cases have been filed against the lady? Now he wants anticipatory bail and the lady should go to jail. You (state) can't be a party to such kind of misuse of police machinery," the bench said.

Advocate General D S Patewalia, appearing for the Punjab government, said the state does not have much role in the dispute which seems to be between two parties, but he will seek instruction and file a response in the case.

The states law officer, however, said that as the guardian of the law, the state has a duty to protect it.

At the outset, the bench referred to the allegations against the MLA and asked senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the lawmaker, about them.

Have you seen your client's activity? How your man is harassing people, he is a public representative, MLA for two times, is this the way to behave. I want the advocate general of Punjab to appear in this matter, the bench said.

Rohatgi said the MLA was innocent and the cases against the woman have been filed by other people and he has no role in them moreover, she has been running a job racket for getting people employed in Canada.

The bench stayed the criminal proceedings against the woman for two weeks, protected the MLA for one week, and listed the cases after seven days for further hearing.

Earlier, the top court had directed Punjab police not to arrest till February 3 MLA who is facing an arrest warrant in connection with a rape case.

The plea has been filed by the leader before the election to seek relief and as the matter of fact, the case has been going on in the high court where a status report has been filed revealing that as many as 20 cases are pending against the MLA.

Simultaneously, the woman has also filed a petition in the apex court seeking relief in criminal cases lodged against her.

Bains represents the Atam Nagar assembly seat in the Ludhiana district of Punjab.

The leader has filed the appeal against an order of the Punjab and Haryana by which it did not stay the trial courts non-bailable warrants issued against him in the rape case.

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Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Manitoba School Boards Association is launching a mentorship program to recruit and support a more diverse array of candidates to run for school trustee this year.

Residents across the province will head to the polls on Oct. 26 to vote for their next local mayor, city councillor and school trustee.

Alan Campbell said he wants to see increased representation of communities that have historically been underrepresented on school boards, including newcomer and Indigenous populations, among the contenders on 2022 ballots.

RUTH BONNEVILLE / FREE PRESS FILES "The ministers offer to stay out of the way of school boards doesn't recognize the complexities of the situation," said Alan Campbell, president of the Manitoba School Boards Association.

School boards are the only level of elected governance in Manitoba, if not in the country, that have reached and exceeded gender equality. The majority of trustees are women and most of the boards in this province are run by women, said the president of association, which oversees 38 public school boards in the province.

But we fully recognize that there are many other members of the community that are underrepresented.

In recent weeks, the association has put out calls to trustees to recruit anyone interested in mentoring members of the public who want to learn about campaigning and serving on a board.

A number of urban and rural trustees have confirmed interest in the pilot, which will expand on the associations historical information sessions to include both more robust recruitment efforts and formal mentorship, Campbell said.

Jennifer Chen, a trustee in the Winnipeg School Division and president of the Women of Colour Community Leadership Initiative Inc., has approached fellow newcomer activists to consider running.

Chen has yet to confirm whether she will campaign for re-election, but indicated she is not worried about competition because she wants to support more visible minority trustees.

Citing her experience as a racialized trustee who navigated her first campaign in 2018, during which she was met with blatant racism when door-knocking, Chen said she wants to support others so they are equipped to succeed.

Newcomer activists have the voice and they have the experience, and that can help form better and inclusive policy on the board, she said, adding much of her work over the last four years has involved building trust with communities that have often felt left out of the school system.

The majority of Manitobas 275 trustees identify as Caucasian.

Only three of the 54 trustees elected in the City of Winnipeg during the last municipal election reported being from racialized communities and two trustees self-identified as Indigenous. That translates into six per cent of trustees in Seven Oaks, Winnipeg, Louis Riel, Pembina Trails, St. James-Assiniboia and River East Transcona identifying as racialized and less than four per cent as Indigenous.

In contrast, approximately 27 per cent of the citys total population self-identifies as a visible minority and 12 per cent of residents are First Nations, Metis or Inuit, or have mixed Indigenous ancestry.

Campbell said anyone who feels they have a contribution for the betterment of public schools should consider trusteeship. The association plans to publish details about its election information sessions and mentorship program later this winter.

We want people to arrive at the board table fully aware of what the role is and fully engaged and participating, said Sandy Nemeth, vice-president for school boards with over 6,000 students on the association executive.

Nemeth, a trustee in Louis Riel, predicts there will be greater interest this fall in comparison to previous elections  which have historically had dismal competition and turnout  because of Bill 64, the now defunct Education Modernization Act.

maggie.macintosh@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @macintoshmaggie
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday cautioned the people not to undertake forex transactions on unauthorised Electronic Trading Platforms (ETPs) saying it may lead to penal action and loss of money. In a statement, the RBI noted that it has noticed misleading advertisements of unauthorised Electronic Trading Platforms (ETPs) offering forex trading facilities to Indian residents, including on social media platforms, search engines, Over The Top (OTT) platforms, gaming apps and the like. "There have also been reports of such ETPs engaging agents who personally contact gullible people to undertake forex trading/investment schemes and entice them with promises of disproportionate/exorbitant returns. Further, there have been reports of frauds committed by such unauthorised ETPs / portals and many residents losing money through such trading/schemes," the RBI said. "The RBI cautions the public not to undertake forex transactions on unauthorised ETPs or remit/deposit money for such unauthorised transactions. Resident persons undertaking forex transactions for purposes other than those permitted under the FEMA or on ETPs not authorised by the RBI shall render themselves liable for penal action under the FEMA," the central bank said. The RBI clarified that resident persons can undertake forex transactions only with authorised persons and for permitted purposes, in terms of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA). While permitted forex transactions can be executed electronically, they should be undertaken only on ETPs authorised for the purpose by the RBI or on recognised stock exchanges (National Stock Exchange of India Ltd., BSE Ltd. and Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India Ltd.) as per the terms and conditions specified by the RBI from time to time. The RBI further clarified that remittances for margins to overseas exchanges / overseas counterparties are not permitted under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) framed under the FEMA. (ANI)
An English bulldog nicknamed Madame Eyebrows for the two expressionistic spots above her eyes may look like the saddest pup in the canine world, but her owners say that she is a very happy dog. Nonetheless, her humorous social media presence has won her an army of fans.

Normally, we call her Thea, owner Janina, who lives with her husband and two dogs in northern Germany, told The Epoch Times. They have had the now 4-year-old British bulldog since she was a puppy.

Madame Eyebrows was born with these unmissable eyebrow marks. A few days after her birth, it was already possible to see, Janina said.

Apart from the family, whenever Madame Eyebrows was outside, people would be surprised to see her special marks. Prompted by their reactions, Janina created an Instagram account, which was later followed by a TikTok account.

Since then, the giant eyebrowed puppy has had an immense following of more than 131,000 followers.

In 2018, magazines gave Madame Eyebrows the saddest looking dog title, or even called her a grumpy dog.

On social media, Janina and her husband exemplify their pups apparent immunity to looking happy in funny photos and videos. In one video, Madame Eyebrows sits alone with a plush toy, and the caption reads, the authorities have closed the door to the bedroom.

In another, she stares mournfully at a plate of two iced donuts covered in mini marshmallows. When you eat sweets only on Sunday, and you realize that its Saturday, reads the caption.

According to psychologists at the University of Portsmouth, England, dogs eyebrow anatomy has evolved through centuries of domestication to make their faces, and emotions, more readable to people, reports National Geographic. In Madame Eyebrowss case, the comically placed eyebrow spots are just irresistible.

Yet, despite the bulldogs perennial sad face, her owners claim she is lovely, funny, and even something of a guard dog.

She loves us very much, and she protects us, too, Janina told The Epoch Times. Explaining her personality further, she added: She is a little bit scared when something is loud or new; then, she runs away.

Madames original canine companion, a Labrador named Luna, passed away in April 2021 at nearly 14 years of age. Since then, Janina and her husband have adopted a puppy named Willy.

(Courtesy of Madame Eyebrows)

Madame, who loves to cuddle very much, also loves to run fast around the garden and play with her new brother. Clearly, it seems like a puppy cant be judged by just its eyebrows.

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Bright newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Mind Cure Health Inc. (CSE: MCUR) ( OTCQX: MCURF) (FRA: 6MH) ("MINDCURE" or the "Company"), a leader in advanced proprietary technology for mental health care and research in psychedelics, announced today the hiring of Dr. Clare Purvis, formerly Headspace Inc.'s Vice President of Clinical Product and Content Development, for the Company's newly created role of Chief Product Officer to focus on building and expanding the reach of iSTRYM, its digital therapeutics platform.

"As care becomes more personalized, the need has never been greater for high quality, scalable digital therapeutics in the mental healthcare space, and I'm excited to join the MINDCURE team at the forefront of the progress being made," said Dr. Purvis adding, "iSTRYM has proven itself in a fast-growing market and I believe it has the potential to become a dominating force as the product of choice for clinics utilizing technology-assisted therapies."

While working at Headspace, Dr. Purvis was on the Executive Leadership Team responsible for clinical and scientific strategy, helping to set the company's overall strategy and overseeing new product development in mental and behavioral health starting in 2019. She currently serves as a Clinical Advisory Board member at Brightline, which provides a technology-driven approach to pediatric behavioral health.

"It's a pivotal and proud moment in the trajectory of MINDCURE as we welcome Dr. Purvis to the team. Clare's experience, expertise and reputation as a thought leader and science-backed leader in the fast-growing digital mental health space will be an invaluable addition to MINDCURE's growth in the mental healthcare industry," said MINDCURE's President and CEO Kelsey Ramsden. "As MINDCURE pushes forward to make Mental WealthTM a reality for more people, Clare will be leading the charge on delivering a truly transformational and high value experience for both therapists, patients and ultimately, payers," Ramsden added.

MINDCURE's product solution, iSTRYM, is expanding to cover a broader market which will include clinics that operate in both psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and general psychotherapy and psychiatry. It is for this purpose that MINDCURE is introducing the role of Chief Product Officer to deliver the above initiatives. After successfully creating its initial product as Chief Technology Officer, Geoff Belair will spearhead the migration of our technology team to an engineering division, with focus on data strategy and build-out of MINDCURE's AI models supporting the product. In his new role as Vice President of Engineering, Mr. Belair will report to the CPO and will be working closely with Dr. Purvis to ensure success as MINDCURE drives to commercialization.

"I would like to thank Mr. Belair for his visionary architecture of the platform and look forward to his continued service in this new role," said MINDCURE's President and CEO Kelsey Ramsden.

Dr. Purvis is a licensed clinical psychologist and she received her Doctorate in Psychology from the PGSP-Stanford Consortium where she trained in the Stanford Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. She serves as an Affiliated Scholar at Stanford University's Clinical Excellence Research Center, where she provides consultation on the use of technology to make great healthcare more affordable.

MINDCURE is also announcing that Daniel Herrera, current Vice President, Growth and Strategic Partnerships, has been promoted to the role of Chief Growth Officer as result of his exceptional performance to date. His continued work in this position will drive MINDCURE forward as we near commercialization of iSTRYM and plan for significant growth in the coming years.

ISTRYM is currently partnered with 20 clinics in North America during its closed beta roll out. Full commercialization of the platform is expected in Q2 of 2022. Mental healthcare therapists and psychiatrists wishing to get access to the platform this year are currently being welcomed and onboarded in priority sequence.

About Mind Cure Health Inc.

MINDCURE is a life sciences company focused on innovating and commercializing new ways to promote healing and improve mental health. The company is developing digital therapeutics technology and researching psychedelic compounds to support access to safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies globally. Learn more at mindcure.com , and follow us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Kelsey Ramsden, President & CEO

Phone: 1-888-593-8995

Forward-Looking Information

Certain information presented in this news release may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws regarding MINDCURE and its business. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "feel", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "subject to", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases.

Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by management of MINDCURE, including, without limitation: the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the Canadian economy and MINDCURE's business, and the extent and duration of such impact; no change to laws or regulations that negatively affect MINDCURE's business; the Company will develop its products as expected and that they will attain the outcomes anticipated; there will be a demand for MINDCURE's products in the future; no unanticipated expenses or costs arise; MINDCURE will be able to continue to identify products that make them ideal candidates for providing solutions for treating mental health; that strategic partnerships entered by the Company will create the opportunities and outcomes anticipated; that MINDCURE will advance wellness worldwide; and that HIPAA compliance certification will have a positive impact on the commercial deployment of iSTRYM.

Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking information inherently entails known and unknown risks and uncertainties about the future and actual results and involves significant risks and uncertainties and should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking information. Although MINDCURE has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information presented, there may be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements as no forward-looking information can be guaranteed.

Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and MINDCURE does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release and the CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE Mind Cure Health Inc.
Credit: Tulane School of Social Work Study

More than two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, behavioral health concerns continue to disrupt the lives of Americans, and addressing those concerns should be a major priority, according to a study by the Tulane University School of Social Work.

Published recently in the journal Scientific Reports, research from Patrick Bordnick, dean of the School of Social Work, and Tonya Hansel, a disaster mental health expert who oversees the school's doctorate program, says that despite vaccinations and lifted restrictions, mental health issues continue to be a crucial concern as the pandemic enters a recovery phase.

"We found increased anxiety, depression and alcohol misuse and that the pandemic exacerbated prior problems," Hansel said.

"While many are looking forward to their new normal or returning to pre-pandemic lifestyle, continued threat, vaccine uncertainties and strain variation serve as cautionary reminders that the global pandemic is ongoing," she said. "Regardless of how long it takes for full recovery, more than a year of heightened fears, loneliness, economic consequences, and grief suggest that behavioral health will have longer term consequences."

In addition to Hansel and Bordnick, others on the team include Leia Saltzman, assistant professor of social work; Pamela Melton, professor of practice; and Tanisha Clark, a licensed clinical social worker.

Researchers surveyed Americans from more than 30 states and representing a wide range of ages, ethnicities, educational backgrounds and income levels. Although more than a quarter of respondents reported having mental health problems before the pandemic, mental health challenges during the pandemic rose to 33 percent.

Anxiety increased by 47 percent, while depression was up by 9 percent. Respondents also reported an 8 percent increase in alcohol misuse.

More than a third of respondents reported such COVID-19 experiences as social isolation, working from home, loss of income and children and teens being out of school. Participants noting social isolation and personal health effects had higher anxiety and depression and lower quality of life. Participants with suspected or diagnosed COVID-19 reported more alcohol misuse and lower quality of life.

The survey data is from early in the pandemic, and Hansel said Americans continue to experience mental health challenges related to it.

"We are seeing issues now and will see more behavioral health issues for years to come," Bordnick said. "Increased rates of relapse and new cases are growing each day."

Hansel agreed. "In disaster mental health, when the threat has dissipated and individuals move out of survival mode, behavioral health problems become more apparent, and consequently, services, such as psychoeducation, therapy and brief treatments, are needed."

"Prior to the pandemic, we had a shortage of mental health professionals. Now that the need has increased, the shortage is more dire," Bordnick said. "Our hope is that this data raises awareness around the urgency to fund accessible behavioral health services to address preexisting needs as well the emerging stress and anxiety related to the pandemic."

The study says an "urgent need" exists for enhanced behavior health services, including brief interventions to normalize symptoms, raise awareness of risk factors and teach coping skills.

The study also suggests that gains made toward telehealth over the past year can continue and increase access to mental health services.

"At this point in the disaster, more intensive treatments should also be made available, especially for those who exhibit specific risk factors, such as young and middle-aged adults, those with limited income and prior behavioral health concerns, and those living in communities with poorer health," Bordnick said.

More information: Tonya Cross Hansel et al, COVID-19 behavioral health and quality of life, Scientific Reports (2022). Journal information: Scientific Reports Tonya Cross Hansel et al, COVID-19 behavioral health and quality of life,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05042-z
EU justice and interior ministers are gathering in Lille for two days of meetings after French President Emmanuel Macron called for a rebalance of the visa-free Schengen area.

Part of France's rotating EU presidency, the meetings, which are "informal", are being held in the northern French town of Lille on 3 and 4 February.

On its first day, the EU's interior ministers will meet with the European Commission, representatives from border-guarding entity Frontex, Europol and the EU Agency for Asylum.

Discussions will centre around crisis management in Europe, radicalisation and "lessons learned" from recent events in Afghanistan and in Belarus concerning border and migration management.

The influx of refugees from Afghanistan is likely to increase after US troops left the country last year and the Taliban took over the government.

The New York Times reported on 2 February that "more than a million" Afghan refugees are fleeing after the economy collapsed, with the Norvegian Refugee Council (NRC) warning that "between 4,000 and 5,000 Afghans are fleeing into Iran", a percentage of which is likely to attempt to come to the Schengen area.

Another area of concern are the refugees who gathered on the Belarus side of the border EU-member Poland in November.

The EU accused Belarus of engineering the crisis in revenge for sanctions slapped on the regime of President Alexander Lukashenko after its brutal suppression of protests against his rule.

The migrants said they want to get to Germany via Poland and Lukashenko has said that he is ready to send them there by plane if necessary, while accusing Brussels of refusing to negotiate their fate.

Child abduction

On Friday, the EU's justice ministers will meet and discuss about how to protect EU citizens against "hate crime and speech".

Leading internet companies Google, Meta and Twitter will be quizzed about their relationship with with judicial authorities.

Laure Beccuau, a top Paris public prosecutor known for her fight against domestic violence, will speak about her experiences.

The Friday meeting will also focus on EU-wide child abduction alert systems and recognition between member states of parentage established within the European Union.

At the eve of the Lille get-together, French President Emmanuel Macron met with the ministers.

Schengen Council

Macron said that the European Union's border-free Schengen Area should be managed by regular ministerial meetings just like the euro zone.

"We want to establish a real Schengen Council, to lead the Schengen area, similarly to what we managed to do for the euro zone," he said.

He proposed that the first meeting of the council be held next month.

The Schengen area comprises 26 countries - including non-EU nations Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. During the pandemic, many Schengen nations erected temporary border controls that went contrary to the zone's 'freedom of movement' ideal.

Macron also wants to create a "rapid reaction force" to help protect EU states' borders in case of a migrant surge and is also pushing for a rethink of the bloc's asylum application process.

(With wires)
Mason Greenwood has been bailed by police (Isaac Parkin/PA) (PA Wire)

Manchester United have reiterated that Mason Greenwood will not train with or play for the club until further notice despite being released on bail.

The 20-year-old was arrested over the alleged rape and assault of a young woman on Sunday after images and videos were posted online.

While Greenwood was still in custody, he was further arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.

Manchester United released a statement confirming Mason Greenwood would not train with or play for the club (Zac Goodwin/PA) (PA Wire)

Greater Manchester Police have not named the footballer but said on Wednesday: A 20-year-old man arrested on Sunday, January 30, 2022 on suspicion of the rape and assault of a woman has been released on bail pending further investigation.

Within hours of the allegations appearing on Sunday morning, United announced the England international was suspended from playing or training with them.

The Old Trafford club reiterated that stance on Thursday morning, saying the situation remains unchanged despite Greenwood being released on bail.

Interim manager Ralf Rangnick will speak to the media to preview Fridays FA Cup fourth-round tie against Middlesbrough on Thursday afternoon.
DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Research Report on Hydrogen Manufacturing and Hydrogen Refueling Station Industry in China, 2016-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

It is expected that 1,000 stations will be built by 2030. By the end of 2020, China had more than 7,000 FCEVs, making it the country with the largest number of fuel cell commercial vehicles in the world, which were mainly used in the Yangtze River Delta, Pearl River Delta and Beijing-Tianjin regions.

With the guidance of policy and market, China's hydrogen and fuel cell vehicles will be on the fast track. It is expected that by 2025, the number of fuel cell vehicles in China will reach 100,000. With reference to the development process of new energy vehicles, fuel cell vehicles will form a good industrial chain after the implementation of the 'demonstrative application' policy, and are expected to see an explosion of production and sales around 2025.

The FCEV policy is favorable in the long term, and the scale of FCEV is accelerating. With the launch of FCEV demonstration and point evaluation, the total subsidy scale of fuel cell industry has saw a significant increase. With the demonstrative city point and subsidy, the total subsidy amount of the Chinese government will exceed CNY 4 billion (USD 620 million) per year with reference to the existing range of subsidized cities, and the industry scale will also increase significantly, driving the whole scale of industry chain to 10,000 units.

In China, local auto manufacturers have been launching FCEVs in succession. Among them, SAIC Group presented early in the field of hydrogen fuel cells, launching Rongwei 950 fuel cell passenger car in 2016, which stands for the first fuel cell passenger car to complete the announcement, sales and licensing in China. Great Wall Motor's first fuel cell vehicle type based on an exclusive platform was scheduled to be demonstrated in 2020. Geely Automobile, for its part, will launch a mass-production model with hydrogen fuel cells in 2025.

In 2020, global sales of FCEVs amounted to a total of 9,006, down 9.1% YOY. The sales of the U.S. and China witnessed approximately a 50% decrease, only 937 (down 55% YOY) and 1177(down 57% YOY) respectively. Unlike the U.S., which was disturbed by the epidemic, China's downturn in sales was mainly due to the shift in government subsidies and the development of demonstration city clusters.

In terms of hydrogen refueling stations, there were 553 hydrogen refueling stations worldwide by the end of 2020, including 107 new stations compared to 2019. 515 stations are open for service to the public and the rest are used for buses or within enterprises, etc., and are not open to the public.

Among them, Asia accounts for 49.73% of the world's hydrogen refueling stations with 275 stations, followed by Europe with 36.16% of hydrogen refueling stations, reaching 200 stations. There are 6 countries with more than 30 hydrogen refueling stations in the world, among which Japan has the largest number of hydrogen refueling stations with 142 stations, followed by Germany with 100 stations and China with 69 stations.

The total number of hydrogen refueling stations in Japan, Germany and China is 311, accounting for 62% of the world, and these three countries are in the absolute leading position in hydrogen energy development. By the end of 2020, 80 hydrogen refueling stations had been put into operation in China, and these stations are mainly concentrated in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, Yangtze River Delta and Pearl River Delta regions.

Topics covered:

Economic and Policy Environment of Hydrogen Manufacturing and Refueling Station Market

What is the impact of COVID-19 on the hydrogen manufacturing and refueling station market in China ?

? Analysis on major hydrogen manufacturing and refueling station companies in China

Key drivers and market opportunities for hydrogen manufacturing and refueling stations

What are the key drivers, challenges, and opportunities for hydrogen manufacturing and refueling stations during the forecast period 2022-2030?

Which are the key players in the global and Chinese hydrogen manufacturing and refueling stations market and what are the reasons for their success?

What is the expected revenue of China's hydrogen manufacturing and refueling station market during the forecast period 2022-2030?

hydrogen manufacturing and refueling station market during the forecast period 2022-2030? What are the strategies adopted by the key players in the market to increase their market share in this industry?

Which segment of the hydrogen manufacturing and refueling stations market is expected to dominate the market in 2030?

What is the competitive landscape of the hydrogen manufacturing and refueling stations market in China ?

? What are the major detrimental factors restraining the growth of the hydrogen manufacturing and refueling stations market in China ?

Key Topics Covered:



1 Overview of the Hydrogen Manufacturing and Refueling Station Industry

1.1 Hydrogen Production Methods

1.2 Hydrogen Storage and Transportation



2 Overview of Global Hydrogen Refueling Stations Industry

2.1 Overview of the Global Hydrogen Refueling Station Industry

2.2 Hydrogen Refueling Station Construction Plans in Some Developed Countries

2.2.1 Japan

2.2.2 United States

2.2.3 South Korea

2.2.4 France

2.2.5 Germany

2.2 Overview of Hydrogen Refueling Station Industry in China

2.3 Hydrogenation Equipment Industry

2.3.1 Equipment Classification

2.3.2 Hydrogen Compressor

2.3.3 Hydrogen Storage Bottle

2.3.4 Filling Equipment

2.4 Impact of COVID-19 on the Hydrogen Manufacturing and Refueling Station Industry



3 Overview of the Fuel Vehicle Industry

3.1 Overview of Global Fuel Vehicle Industry

3.1.1 Production

3.1.2 Downstream Market Demand

3.2 Overview of Fuel Vehicle Industry in China



4 Analysis on Major Hydrogen Fueling Station Operators in China

4.1 Shanghai Hyfun Energy Technology Co., Ltd.

4.1.1 Company Overview

4.1.2 Hydrogen Refueling Station Operation Status

4.2 Shanghai Sunwise Energy Systems Co., Ltd

4.3 Zhangjiagang Furui Hydrogen Power Equipment Co., Ltd.

4.4 Beijing PERIC Hydrogen Technologies Co., Ltd

4.5 Beijing Hydrosys Technology, Co., Ltd



5 Forecast on Global and Chinese Hydrogen Filling Station Industry, 2022-2030

5.1 Influencing Factors of Global and Chinese Hydrogen Refueling Station Development

5.1.1 Drivers and Market Opportunities

5.1.2 Threats and Challenges

5.2 Forecast on Global and Chinese Hydrogen Fueling Stations Supply, 2022-2030

5.3 Forecast on Global and Chinese Hydrogen Manufacturing and Hydrogen Refueling Stations Downstream Demand, 2022-2030

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/a7mx7d

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI): The Central government on Thursday informed the Rajya Sabha that an interministerial consideration is underway to select Marathi as classical language and a "positive decision" will come soon.

Minister of State for Culture, Arjun Ram Meghwal made the announcement while replying to a question by Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi in Rajya Sabha today.

Also Read | Online Fraud In Pune: 42-Year-Old Woman Duped Of Rs 8.7 Lakh By Cyber Fraudster Impersonating Customer Service Agent Of Bank.

Chaturvedi raised the issue during Question Hour, asking "why Marathi is not yet considered as classical language despite the matter put before the government by several MPs and the state as well, and the government always replies that consideration is on".

Replying to the question, Meghwal said, "A decision on declaring Marathi as a classical language will be taken soon, inter-ministerial dialogue is on. A positive decision in this matter will be taken soon. The government has so far given the status of classical language to six languages."

Also Read | Xiaomi 12 Mini Render Leaked Online, India Launch Soon.

The Central government has so far given the status of classical language to Tamil, Telugu, Sanskrit, Kannada, Malayalam and Odia.

The government of Maharashtra earlier has submitted an application to the Ministry of Culture to grant classical language status to Marathi.

The criteria adopted by the government to determine the eligibility of a language for classical status includes its recorded history over a period of 1,500-2,000 years, the body of ancient literature, whether its literary tradition is original and not borrowed from another speech community and other yardsticks. (ANI)

(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 : The Ministry of Health on Thursday informed that thirty four states in India have registered a decline in Covid-19 cases and positivity rate .

The states mentioned by the Union Health Ministry included Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan among others.

The ministry also mentioned that Kerala and Mizoram are still recording an increase in cases and positivity.

It also said that the pandemic situation has improved and there is contraction in spread of the Covid infection. In 268 districts, the positivity rate is below 5%, the government said.

During the press conference the Health Ministry also stated that the current data indicates that unlike evidence during earlier Covid surge, with the current variant surgery is safe.

The ministry further stated that surgery at this point is not associated with higher chances of complications or deaths in Covid positive patients.

The ministry urged hospitals not to deny surgery to Covid positive patients with the current variant.

The ministry also mentioned that in this Covid wave, sore throat was seen more in patients, there was significantly lesser use of drugs for treatment.

With 1,72,433 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day, India's total tally of cases increased to over 41,803,318, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday.

View Full Image States that registered a decline in Covid-19 cases

A rise of 6.84% was seen on Thursday in the daily Covid caseload.

The government pointed out that that a decline in Covid-19 case fatality rate has been noted with an increase in administration of vaccine doses.

There has been a consistent decline in daily active COVID-19 cases and daily positivity rate, indicating decreased spread of the infection, the government said.

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 10.99%, while the weekly positivity rate was 12.98%, according to the health ministry.

Yesterday, several big cities in the country witnessed a surge in Covid-19 cases.

Maharashtra clocked a marginal rise in single-day coronavirus infections with 18,067 fresh cases in a span of 24 hours.

Mumbai also witnessed a jump in its daily Covid-19 cases with 1,128 infections and ten fatalities in 24 hours.

National capital Delhi added 3,028 fresh infections in a day.

Karnataka registered 20,505 new Covid cases while Kerala reported 52,199 fresh cases of respiratory infection.
The Supreme Court on Thursday adjourned the hearing on the review petition in the road rage case against Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu till February 25. A special bench of Justices AM Khanwilkar and Sanjay Kishan Kaul adjourned the matter for February 25. Justice AM Khanwilkar said that there is a letter for adjournment. Senior Advocate P Chidambaram, appearing for accused Sidhu, sought adjournment on the matter saying that his client had circulated the letter for a new Advocate on Record be appointed. Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra was appearing for the petitioners. The family of the 1988 road rage case victim had filed a review petition before the Supreme Court seeking a modification of its earlier order in which the Punjab MLA Navjot Singh Sidhu was acquitted. Sidhu was acquitted in connection with the culpable homicide charges but was convicted of the offence of voluntarily causing hurt in an order given by the apex court. The court had slapped a fine of Rs 1,000 on Sidhu. The court had also acquitted Sidhu's associate, Rupinder Singh Sandhu, in the case. The case has gone through Session Court, High court and Supreme Court. The Sessions Court Judge of Patiala had on September 22, 1999, acquitted Sidhu and his associate, due to lack of evidence in the case and giving the benefit of the doubt. It was then challenged by the victim's families before the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which had in 2006, convicted and sentenced Sidhu to three years imprisonment. Sidhu then filed an appeal before the apex court challenging this order. On December 27, 1988, Sidhu allegedly had beaten Gurnam Singh on his head, leading to his death. Sidhu counsel, in the letter seeking adjournment, also stated that the matters were unexpectedly listed in the Supplementary List on February 3 which was only published late in the evening of February 2. Sidhu counsel A. Karthik, who has written communication to Registry, stated in the letter that the senior counsel who had previously represented the Respondent in the Criminal Appeal, has expressed his inability to appear. The Respondent Sidhu is presently travelling and is trying to avail the services of another Senior Counsel to effectively represent him before this Court and a copy of the Review Petition is not available with him, the lawyer said. (ANI)
TEHRAN, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian on Thursday called for a "stable and reliable" nuclear agreement in the ongoing Vienna talks, which aimed at resolving disputes between the Islamic republic and the western countries over the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal.

"Iran is ready to reach a good, stable and reliable agreement" in the talks underway in Vienna, Amir Abdollahian made the remarks in a telephone conversation with his Japanese counterpart Yoshimasa Hayashi, according to Iranian Foreign Ministry's website.

The Japanese top diplomat expressed his country's support for the Vienna talks, stressing the need for serious action by all parties to live up to their commitments and seize the current opportunity to reach an agreement.

Amir Abdollahian thanked Japan for its support and readiness to help advance the Vienna talks.

The Vienna talks, which began last year to restore the nuclear pact following the withdrawal of the United States in 2018, have now reached a crucial stage for political decisions of the parties involved, according to analysts. 
Former US Navy Captain Pleads Guilty to Accepting Nearly $68,000 in Bribes

A former U.S. Navy captain on Wednesday pleaded guilty to bribery for accepting nearly $68,000 from a foreign defense contractor.

Donald Hornbeck, 61, admitted in San Diego federal court to receiving at least $67,830 in bribes in extravagant dinners, hotels, parties, and prostitutes from foreign defense contractor Leonard Francis, while he directed the operations of combatant ships in the Seventh Fleet in the Western Pacific.

According to a statement from the U.S. Attorneys Office, he accepted the bribes in exchange for breaching his official duty to the U.S. Navy. He also acknowledged that he shared confidential Navy information with Francis.

Hornbeck is one of 34 Navy officials and defense contractors, including Francis, accused of a fraud and bribery scheme that among other things provided Glenn Defense Marine Asia with classified ship schedules, allowing them to beat competitors and overcharge for services.

Twenty-nine defendants have pleaded guilty. All have admitted collectively to accepting millions of dollars in luxury travel and accommodation, meals, lavish gifts, or services of prostitutes, among other things, from Francis in exchange for helping its Singapore-based company Glenn Defense Marine Asia (GDMA) win and maintain contracts and overbill the Navy by over $35 million.

While scores of Navy officials were partying with Leonard Francis, a massive breach of national security was in full swing, U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman said in a statement. Today another participant has admitted that he lost his way, allowing greed to replace honor and duty as the driving force in his life.

Mr. Hornbeck abdicated the standards, responsibilities, and ideals required of a senior U.S. Navy officer over a multi-year period solely to enrich himself and others by willfully facilitating a corrupt Navy contractors years long fraud against the U.S. Government, Kelly P. Mayo, the director of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, said in a statement.

NCIS Director Omar Lopez said Hornbeck betrayed his oath to the Navy.

Hornbeck deserves to be held fully accountable for his criminal actions to accept lavish gifts from Mr. Francis in exchange for influencing ship schedules in favor of ports that Mr. Francis preferred and otherwise prioritizing the business interests of GDMA and Mr. Francis over those of the Navy, he said in a statement.

Hornbeck, of Greenfield, Indiana, is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 8. He could face up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
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.
Operating as a tech overlay may work well for, say, a travel or hospitality start-up, but in the funeral business, it brings its own headaches. In almost every state, consumers can buy cremations only from a licensed funeral home. That means every one of these start-ups needs a brick-and-mortar shop in each state where it offers services. Eirene has a small office for regulatory reasons, but Ms. Greene said no customer had ever asked to visit it. Mr. Crawford said Solace had small offices in Seattle, Portland and Los Angeles that the funeral directors on his staff work from occasionally, but most of his team is remote.

Other states have requirements so rigorous that its hard to imagine this business would even be possible in them. Alabama, for instance, requires funeral homes to have a conference room, a display area with at least eight different adult size caskets and a viewing area that can hold at least 100 people.

Nearly all states have licensure requirements that were established without contemplating this type of business model, said Mr. Doyle of Tulip. As we continue to grow, there are certainly regulatory frictions that are slowing down the process a little bit.

Victoria J. Haneman, a law professor at Creighton University who studies the funeral business, said that many of the state-by-state regulations are outdated and completely unnecessary. While consumers benefit from federal regulation around price disclosure, some of these state-level rules protect the companies already operating and create a disincentive for new operators, she said.

Tulip, for example, might be in the best position to make those economics work. Its parent company, Foundation Partners Group, already owns over 170 funeral homes, crematories and cemeteries across 22 states, and Tulip is using that infrastructure to serve its online customers. Unlike its competitors, it doesnt have to sink money into empty storefronts.

Smart Cremation, which has been active for over a decade, has the same perk: Its owner is NorthStar Memorial Group, a company with over 75 funeral home and cemetery locations.
The Essex Reporter is a daily digital news website covering the Town of Essex and City of Essex Junction, Vermont. Our beat reporters are on the ground every day covering local government, schools, sports, business and culture.
In 1862, more than 3,600 men were killed in the Civil War Battle of Antietam in Maryland, and more events that happened on this day in history.
Feb. 3LAWRENCE  Newly elected Mayor Brian DePena said the city is prepared to go forward with three major, multi-million dollar building projects without raising tax bills.

DePena said the "people of Lawrence were correct" in November when they voted down a tax override for a new Leahy School.

"It's not required," said DePena Tuesday night in his first "State of the City" address before the City Council.

DePena's administration last week announced it could use $40 million in American Rescue Plan Act money combined with more than $60 million in state building assistance funds to build a new Leahy School at 100 Erving Ave. The plan would not affect tax bills.

A public hearing on Leahy School funding is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 15 before city councilors.

Also, the city has until Feb. 24 to decide if they will use the millions available from the state's School Building Assistance Authority.

DePena, in his address, also noted two other major building projects are underway in the city which are not affecting tax bills: construction of a new police station and the new Oliver Partnership School.

Speaking before councilors, DePena spoke of the "decades long backlog of critical infrastructure and capital improvements that Lawrence faces that cannot be put off for any additional amount of time."

Standing at the podium in the City Council chambers, DePena read his address in Spanish. Frank Bonet, his chief of staff, read the address in English. This was DePena's first State of the City address since being sworn into office on Nov. 12.

Other issues DePena addressed included:

The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, vaccinations and testing. "Thank you (those who were vaccinated) for doing your part to wake us up from this nightmare that has claimed 285 Lawrencians and has sickened more than 35,000 people in our city," he said.

A consulting contract the city has with Harvard University to assess the Office of Planning & Development with regards to entrepreneurship and business growth in Lawrence. "I recognize the need for a more holistic approach to propelling entrepreneurship and business growth in Lawrence. We will focus on supporting entrepreneurs and existing businesses of all kinds to thrive  from vendors and general contractors to food-related and childcare businesses," he said.

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Housing needs. "As housing costs rise and homeownership becomes more and more unreachable for many, we will create new funding support for homebuyers as well as the creation of new affordable, workforce and market housing. I am dedicated to building the wealth of our residents through homeownership as well as the entrepreneurial and business support," DePena said.

The Lawrence Police Department and Chief Roy Vasque. DePena said Vasque has "reconstructed the police department into a truly professional team, a team that knows the culture, the language, its people, its streets, its issues, etc. His work has taken Lawrence into an era in which it has seen the lowest amount of crime ever."

Educational and career programs for youth. DePena said he will be asking the Workforce Investment Board "to explore and research educational programs that will allow our youth with decision making of entering into a trade. As many know, trades are in high demand as the need for more experienced labor employees continues to grow."

DePena concluded his address by saying it's the honor of his life to be mayor.

"The state of our city is strong. It is sturdy and it has proven to be durable and resilient through tough times. We have proven time and again that by working together, Lawrence can turn obstacles into opportunities," he said.

Follow staff reporter Jill Harmacinski on Twitter @EagleTribJill.
I tried Five Guys "All The Way" burger and thought it tasted better than the chain's more classic hamburger. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

I went to Five Guys for the first time and compared a classic hamburger to its "All The Way" burger.

"All The Way" includes lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, grilled onions and mushrooms, plus three condiments.

My "All The Way" burger had more flavor than the classic hamburger, which was dry and unmemorable.

I recently went to Five Guys for the very first time.

After many years of In-N-Out loyalty, I finally decided to try Five Guys. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

As a California girl born and raised, Five Guys just wasn't on my radar growing up. Like most West Coast kids, I became an In-N-Out devotee and defended the chain in numerous debates with East Coast friends who swore Shake Shack tastes better (no, just no).

It wasn't until I began reading fellow Insider food reporter Rachel Askinasi's extensive coverage of Five Guys that I realized there was another East Coast-based fast food chain with a very loyal fan base. And as a huge burger lover, I knew I had to see what all the hype was about.

I was super excited by the number of options on Five Guys' menu. But there was one burger in particular I knew I had to try.

I was most intrigued by Five Guys' "All The Way" option. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

Unlike In-N-Out, which has just three burgers on its very spare menu, Five Guys has eight different versions of the classic fast-food menu item  and that's not even counting the 15 toppings that are available at no charge, or the hot dogs and sandwiches you can order as well.

Since it was my first time I decided to sample most of the options, but there was one special variation I was most excited to try. It was the one I didn't even know existed. The one that was barely legible on the menu.

The one that promised to go "All The Way."

Five Guys' "All The Way" burger comes with five toppings and three sauces.

The "All The Way" burger includes ketchup, grilled mushrooms, mustard, and more. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

Ordering your burger "All The Way" means it includes lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, grilled onions, and grilled mushrooms, along with ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise.

It was actually my dad who first told me about the "All The Way" burger. When I recruited him to go on this Five Guys taste test with me, he said a coworker had recommended that we try this special order as well.

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In my research, I saw that "All The Way" is actually described as Five Guys' "standard" for toppings, which surprised me. There wasn't an "All The Way" option that I could order online, so I had to manually select all of the toppings to try it out.

Before tasting the "All The Way" burger, I tried a classic Five Guys hamburger so I could compare the two.

Me with a classic Five Guys hamburger. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

I sampled four different burgers for my first Five Guys experience, opting for a hamburger and an "All The Way" burger, along with a Little Cheeseburger and Little Bacon Burger ("little" just means there's one patty instead of two).

But for the purposes of this story, and to keep it simple, I'm going to focus just on the classic burger versus the "All The Way."

I tried to go as classic as possible for my very first Five Guys hamburger.

My first Five Guys hamburger featured onion, lettuce, pickles, and tomato. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

I ordered my hamburger with onion, lettuce, pickles, and tomato, wanting to see how just the classic ingredients would compare to Five Guys' toppings-loaded "All The Way" burger.

I also read up on how Five Guys makes its special smashed-style burgers, which got me even more excited for my first taste.

Five Guys prides itself on using fresh beef patties made by hand. Joey Hadden/Insider

Insider's Rachel Askinasi recently went behind the scenes at her local Five Guys to see exactly how the burgers are made. She notes that the chain prides itself on using fresh beef patties that are made by hand in-house every day.

Askinasi observed Five Guys employees working in teams of two for each burger. One focused on cooking the perfect patty, while the other loaded the buns with toppings and condiments. Dry items were placed on the top bun, while wet items sat below the beef on the bottom bun.

The buns, by the way, are made from Five Guys' special bread recipe. Amy Cryzter  the director of training at the Five Guys that Askinasi visited  told her that the chain also teaches its employees a special technique to make sure the buns are perfectly toasted. Askinasi wrote that "employees are encouraged to softly place the palm of their hand on the top. If it feels warm, the bread is likely toasted enough. If it's still cold, chances are it needs more time."

It all sounded pretty fantastic to me. But what did I actually think of the Five Guys hamburger?

Despite all the hype, the Five Guys hamburger just didn't wow me.

I found my Five Guys hamburger to be unremarkable with just the classic toppings. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

Five Guys employee Maezion Henix told Askinasi that the chain has one big aim with its burger patties.

"We want our burgers leaking," he said. "So when you bite into it, it will be satisfying."

But reader, I unfortunately had the opposite experience. My hamburger definitely wasn't leaking, and it wasn't very juicy. The patty didn't give me much flavor, and tasted nearly well-done to me. And I was disappointed to see that the sesame bun was already pretty soggy in the five-minute ride home from my local Five Guys. I yearned for the soft, plump buns I was used to at In-N-Out.

I was especially surprised that the Five Guys classic hamburger tasted dry.

My Five Guys hamburger was in need of some sauce and toppings. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

Due to the way Five Guys has you select every single topping and condiment online, I accidentally forgot to get ketchup on my burger  which was a huge disappointment. While I think this definitely contributed to the dryness of my burger, I still believe a good patty should be able to shine without condiments (Guy Fieri's "perfect" burger recipe, for example, blew me away without any sauce).

I also didn't love how the onion was chopped into small pieces and hidden underneath those two mammoth patties, rather than adding to the flavor. The veggies felt like an afterthought and, overall, my burger just didn't taste as fresh to me as the ones I'm used to getting at In-N-Out.

But there was still time for Five Guys to redeem itself, and it definitely did with the "All The Way" burger.

My "All The Way" burger was packed with toppings  and tons of flavor. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

Unlike my hamburger, Five Guys' "All The Way" burger was packed with flavor. The patty tasted far juicier with the help of the ketchup-mustard-mayonnaise combo, and the grilled onions gave each bite a nice hint of sweetness. All the ingredients worked really well together, giving the "All The Way" burger far more depth than the original.

At the end of the day, I believe a great burger should excite you. And Five Guys' "All The Way" burger definitely accomplishes that.

I'd get a burger at Five Guys again, but I wouldn't keep things simple.

I'd definitely order an "All The Way" burger from Five Guys again. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

I don't think Five Guys has a superior patty to In-N-Out (sorry), but I still love that the East Coast chain offers such a large variety of toppings. Five Guys really shines when you get creative, and having a burger like "All The Way" on the menu perfectly showcases that.

There's definitely another Five Guys trip on the agenda, but next time I'll just go "All The Way" instead.

Read the original article on Insider
Burma Myanmars Leader Aung San Suu Kyi Too Sick For Court Hearing

State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in Naypyitaw on January 27, 2021, before the coup. / The Irrawaddy

Myanmars detained State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi was too sick to attend court on Thursday, sources have told The Irrawaddy.

They said the 76-year old was suffering from dizziness and nausea.

She faces 17 charges, including 10 for anti-corruption, and up to 164 years in prison. Thursdays hearing concerned alleged breaches of the Official Secrets Act, which carries 14 years imprisonment.

Detained Australian economic adviser Sean Turnell, deposed minister of planning and finance U Soe Win, his predecessor U Kyaw Win and deputy minister U Sett Aung are co-defendants.

U Soe Win and U Kyaw Win are both being treated in hospital. They have been detained since last Februarys coup.

The court accepts [Daw Aung San Suu Kyis] leave for todays hearing because she felt ill. We do not know anything else, the court source said.

It is the second time Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has missed a court hearing. Last year, she took a day off due to motion sickness which sparked speculation that she was being held somewhere remote reached by poor roads.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyis location has not been disclosed since the Feb. 1 coup. The junta barred all five of her lawyers from speaking to the media in October and details of the court hearings have since been limited.

Last month she was sentenced to six years in prison on five criminal charges and has since reportedly appeared in court wearing a prison uniform of a white top and brown longyi.

The next hearing is scheduled for Feb. 10.



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The Home Office was forced today to admit it is spending 4.7million every day on housing asylum seekers in hotels - four times as much as it has previously admitted.

The department was forced to issuing a correction after a senior civil servant at the department yesterday told MPs the figure was 1.2million per day, as Priti Patel was quizzed on Channel crossings.

In fact the figure given by Tricia Hayes to the Home Affairs Committee related only to Afghan refugees.

An additional 3.5 million a day is being spent, the Government said, in accommodating asylum seekers from elsewhere.

It is understood the incorrect total arose from a drafting error. There are 25,000 asylum seekers and 12,000 Afghan refugees in hotels, making a total of 37,000, the Home Office also clarified.

This works out at a cost of 127 per person per day.

The figure given by Tricia Hayes to the Home Affairs Committee related only to Afghan refugees, the Home Office said today

Home Secretary Priti Patel said the policy is 'thoroughly inadequate', adding: 'We do not want people in hotels.'

More than 200 migrants reached the UK in seven boats on January 26 as Border Force agents arrived into dover after picking up those who had crossed the Channel

A spokesman said: 'The use of hotels is unacceptable. It is a short-term solution to the global migration crisis and we are working hard to find appropriate dispersed accommodation for migrants, asylum seekers and Afghan refugees as soon as possible.

'We would urge local authorities to do all they can to help house people permanently.

'Our New Plan for Immigration, which is going through Parliament now, will fix the broken asylum system, enabling us to remove those with no right to be here more quickly.'

At Wednesday's committee session, MPs were told that the Government is 'optimistic' it will find a new way of working with councils 'on how we manage these costs'.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said the policy is 'thoroughly inadequate', adding: 'We do not want people in hotels.'

She also said the Government and local authorities are 'absolutely struggling' to move Afghan refugees into more suitable, permanent accommodation as the country does not have sufficient infrastructure.
In San Juan, the oldest US church

Most visitors to Puerto Rico seem unaware that the oldest church anywhere in the United States can be found on the Caribbean island territory.

Puerto Rico, discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, was later established as a Spanish colony in its own right by conquistador Juan Ponce de Leon in 1508  a full century before Samuel de Champlains founding of Quebec and 99 years before the English settlement at Jamestown in Virginia. It was from his base in Puerto Rico that Ponce de Leon discovered Florida in 1513.

As with elsewhere in the New World, clerics and other missionaries propagating the Christian faith through the lens of the Roman Catholic church stood side-by-side with explorers as Spain grew its empire.

Having been founded in 1521, the Puerto Rican capital of San Juan is in the midst of its quincentennial anniversary. The occasion, delayed by the coronavirus pandemic, kicked off earlier this month with a visit by King Felipe VI of Spain.

Located at the heart of Old San Juan, as the historic old town is called, the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist (Catedral Basilica Metropolitana de San Juan Bautista) was one of the first buildings erected.

With its dedication to St. John the Baptist, the cathedral is a reminder that San Juans very name comes from John the Baptist, the prophet who prepared the way for Jesus Christ. Reminders of this Christian heritage are everywhere, including in the heraldry of the territorial governments coat of arms and great seal.

The cathedral has gone through various iterations since Bishop Alonso Manso, the first prelate.

Notably, a significant renovation in the 19th century resulted in the present neoclassical appearance. A later alteration after the U.S. acquired Puerto Rico following the Spanish-American War extended the height of the west front along Christ Street (Calle del Cristo) to ensure the seat of the Roman Catholic bishop wasnt overshadowed by the construction of a now-demolished Protestant church belonging to Episcopalians.

However, traces of what originally stood can be found at the cathedrals east end, which houses a small chapel constructed out of sandstone in a vernacular adaption of medieval Gothic architecture. As far as this columnist knows, the space is one of only two examples of true Gothic anywhere on U.S. soil. The other is the recently restored Church of St. Joseph (Iglesia de San Jose), also in Old San Juan, with its Gothic vaulting dating to 1532.

One of the cathedrals most important treasures is the circa 1836 tomb of Ponce de Leon. He was interred in San Juan after dying in Cuba from wounds sustained during a 1521 battle with Indians in southwest Florida.

Sadly, a thorough restoration is desperately needed, as category-five Hurricane Maria inflicted significant damage to both the exterior and interior.

If you go

The Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is open daily with no admission charge for visitors. Roman Catholic masses are celebrated at 9 and 11 a.m. every Sunday and again on Monday, Tuesday and Friday at 12:15 p.m.

Book a room at the Palacio Provincial Hotel. The relatively new boutique hotel, housed within a Spanish colonial-era building, has incredible views of the cathedral from its rooftop infinity pool.

Discover Puerto Rico has full trip planning resources available through its website.

Dennis Lennox writes a travel column for The Christian Post.
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The nominations for the 2022 British Academy Film Awards have been announced, with Dune, The Power of the Dog and Belfast leading the nominations with 11, eight and six respectively.

Denis Villeneuve's star-studded sci-fi epic landed a slew of technical nods, along with a nod for the top prize for Best Film, while Jane Campion's dark Western and Kenneth Branagh's Irish biopic follows close behind with eight and six respectively.

While the Academy once again recognised three women in the Director's shortlist, this year's nominations fell short on BAFTA's vow to improve diversity, with only seven people of colour nominated in contrast to last year's 12.

Top prizes! The nominations for the 2022 British Academy Film Awards have been announced, with Dune (pictured), Belfast and The Power Of The Dog among those competing for the coveted honours

It looks set to be a competitive evening in the acting categories, with Lady Gaga, Caitriona Balfe and Benedict Cumberbatch battling it out for the leading honours, alongside newcomers Kodi Smit-McPhee, Ariana DeBose and Adeel Akhtar.

While many of Dune's nominations came in the technical categories, it's also landed a nod for Best Film, alongside Belfast, Don't Look Up, Licorice Pizza and The Power of the Dog.

The critically-acclaimed film, the first of two films based on Frank Herbert's 1965 novel, had been tipped for awards glory, with Hans Zimmer once again recognised in the Original Score category, along with nods for Casting, Cinematography, Editing, Production Design, Costume Design, Makeup and Hair, Sound and Special Visual Effects.

After its success at the Golden Globes, the dark Western The Power of the Dog landed eight nominations, including Best Film, Director and Adapted Screenplay for Jane Campion, Leading Actor for Benedict Cumberbatch, Original Score, Cinematography, and two nominations in the Supporting Actor category for Kodi Smit-McPhee and Jesse Plemons

Exciting: The Power of the Dog landed eight nominations, including Best Film, Director and Adapted Screenplay for Jane Campion, and Leading Actor for Benedict Cumberbatch (pictured)

Praised: Kenneth Branagh's Irish biopic Belfast, based on his childhood growing up in Northern Ireland during The Troubles starring Jamie Dornan and Judi Dench, landed six nods

Following close behind is Belfast, which landed six nods despite an unexpected snub for Kenneth in the Director category.

The drama, which stars Jamie Dornan, Judi Dench and newcomer Jude Hill and is based on Kenneths' childhood growing up in Northern Ireland at the height of The Troubles, was also nominated for Outstanding British Film, Original Screenplay, Supporting Actress for Caitriona, Supporting Actor for Ciaran Hinds and Editing.

Following the surprise BAFTA success of 2012's Skyfall, the British Academy has also recognised Daniel Craig's swan song in the James Bond franchise, with five nominations.

Nominated: Following the surprise BAFTA success of 2012's Skyfall, the British Academy has also recognised Daniel Craig's swan song in the James Bond franchise, with No Time To Die landing five nominations including Outstanding British Film

The action-packed epic, which was delayed multiple times due to the Covid pandemic, landed nods for Outstanding British Film, Special Visual Effects, Editing, Cinematography and Sound.

In the Outstanding British Film category, Belfast and No Time To Die will fight it out for the honour alongside After Love, Ali & Ava, Boiling Point, Cyrano, Everybody's Talking About Jamie, House of Gucci, Last Night in Soho, and Passing.

The Leading Actress prize will go to either Lady Gaga (House of Gucci), Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza), Emilia Jones (Coda), Renate Reinsve (The Worst Person in the World), Joanna Scanlan (After Love), or Tessa Thompson (Passing).

Contender: Having already been tipped for Oscars success, and following his award at the Golden Globes, Will Smith has landed a nod for Leading Actor for his performance in King Richard

Adeel Akhtar (Ali & Ava), Mahershala Ali (Swan Song), Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog), Leonardo DiCaprio (Don't Look Up), Stephen Graham (Boiling Point) and Will Smith (King Richard) are shortlisted for the Leading Actor award.

Nominated for Best Supporting Actress are Caitriona Balfe (Belfast), Jessie Buckley (The Lost Daughter), Ariana Debose (West Side Story), Ann Dowd (Mass), Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard) and Ruth Negga (Passing).

Mike Faist (West Side Story), Ciaran Hinds (Belfast), Troy Kotsur (Coda), Woody Norman (C'mon C'mon), Jesse Plemons (The Power Of The Dog), Kodi Smit-Mcphee (The Power Of The Dog) have landed nods for Supporting Actor.

All of the performers in the Supporting Actor category are first-time nominees, with a total of 19 out of the 24 nominees up acting accolades earning their place on the shortlist for the first time.

Disney's critically-lauded musical Encanto leads the nominations for Animated Film, competing opposite Flee, Luca and The Mitchells Vs The Machines.

However, despite vows to improve diversity among the stars being nominated, this year's list of nods falls short on 2021, with seven people of colour nominated as opposed to last year's 12.

In recent years BAFTA, and other film Academies such as the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, have come under fire for a lack of diversity in their nominations list, and ahead of this year's ceremony, the British Academy bosses reiterated their vow to recognise a wider range of films and actors.

Glamorous: Lady Gaga will battle it out for the Leading Actress prize, following her performance as Patrizia Reggiani in House of Gucci, against Alana Haim, Emilia Jones, Renate Reinsve, Joanna Scanlan, or Tessa Thompson

Lauded: Caitriona Balfe has been nominated for Supporting Actress for her performance in Belfast, competing against Jessie Buckley, Ariana Debose, Ann Dowd, Aunjanue Ellis and Ruth Negga

Lauded: Paul Thomas Anderson's 1970s teen drama landed five nominations, including Best Film, Director, Original Screenplay, a Leading Actress nod for Alana Haim, and Editing

Amanda Berry, CEO of BAFTA, said: 'Congratulations to all our nominees, whose extraordinary talent and achievements have shone through in another incredible year for film.

'BAFTA celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, so it is a particularly special year for us and we are proud to be announcing the nominations from our recently redeveloped home at 195 Piccadilly.

'We look forward to celebrating our nominees' incredible talent in person when we welcome everyone to London's Royal Albert Hall for the EE British Academy Film Awards on 13 March.'

Krishnendu Majumdar, Chair of BAFTA, added: 'This year's nominations showcase a remarkable range of creative work in-front of and behind the camera. We know that by celebrating outstanding achievement today, we are inspiring future generations for years to come.

Dynamic duo: The nominations were announced by AJ Odudu and Tom Allen, who posed up a storm at the BAFTA 195 Piccadilly after revealing which stars would be competing for the awards

Pals: The pair were every inch the dynamic duo as they posed backstage. The duo will

Gorgeous: Having recently recovered from a foot injury following her Strictly Come Dancing stint, AJ wowed in a plunging black jumpsuit with dynamic shoulder pads, teamed with thin-strapped green heels

BAFTAs 2022: THE WINNERS Best Film The Power of the Dog- WINNER Belfast Don't Look Up Dune Licorice Pizza Outstanding British Film Belfast- WINNER After Love Ali & Ava Boiling Point Cyrano Everybody's Talking About Jamie House of Gucci Last Night in Soho No Time To Die Passing Leading Actress Joanna Scanlan, After Love - WINNER Lady Gaga, House of Gucci Alana Haim, Licorice Pizza Emilia Jones, CODA Renata Reinsve, The Worst Person in the World Tessa Thompson, Passing Leading Actor Will Smith, King Richard- WINNER Adeel Akhtar, Ali & Ava Mahershala Ali, Swansong Benedict Cumberbatch, The Power of the Dog Leonardo DiCaprio, Don't Look Up Stephen Graham, Boiling Point Supporting Actress Victory: Ariana DeBose was awarded the gong for Best Supporting Actress Ariana DeBose, West Side Story - WINNER Caitriona Balfe, Belfast Jessie Buckley, The Lost Daughter Ruth Negga, Passing Aunjanue Ellis, King Richard Ann Dowd, Mass Supporting Actor Congrats: Troy Kotsur got Supporting Actor for his role in Coda Troy Kotsur, CODA- WINNER Mike Faist, West Side Story Ciaran Hinds, Belfast Woody Norman, C'mon C'mon Jesse Plemons, The Power of the Dog Kodi Smit-McPhee, The Power of the Dog Director Jane Campion, The Power of the Dog- WINNER Aleem Khan, After Love Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Drive My Car Audrey Diwan, Happening Paul Thomas Anderson, Licorice Pizza Julia Ducournau, Titane Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer The Harder They Fall- WINNER After Love Boiling Point Keyboard Fantasies Passing Adapted Screenplay CODA- WINNER Drive My Car Dune The Lost Daughter The Power of the Dog Original Screenplay Licorice Pizza- WINNER Being the Ricardos Belfast Don't Look Up King Richard

EE Rising Star Award EE Rising Star Award: Bond star Lashana Lynch won Lashana Lynch - WINNER Harris Dickinson Millicent Simmonds Kodi Smit-McPhee Ariana DeBose Cinematography Dune- WINNER Nightmare Alley No Time To Die The Power of the Dog The Tragedy of Macbeth Animated Film Encanto- WINNER Flee Luca The Mitchells vs The Machines Documentary Summer of Soul (Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) - WINNER Becoming Cousteau Cow Flee The Rescue Film Not in the English Language Drive My Car- WINNER The Hand of God Parallel Mothers Petite Maman The Worst Person in the World Costume Design Costume Design: Cruella won the gong Cruella- WINNER Cyrano Dune The French Dispatch Nightmare Alley Make Up & Hair The Eyes of Tammy Faye- WINNER Cruella Cyrano Dune House of Gucci Original Score Dune - WINNER Being The Ricardos Don't Look Up The French Dispatch The Power of the Dog Editing No Time To Die- WINNER Belfast Dune Licorice Pizza Summer of Soul (Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) Production Design Dune - WINNER Cyrano The French Dispatch Nightmare Alley West Side Story Sound Dune - WINNER Last Night in Soho No Time to Die A Quiet Place Part II West Side Story Special Visual Effects Dune- WINNER British Short Animation Casting Boiling Point The Hand of God King Richard West Side Story Advertisement

Important: Ahead of the nominations' announcement, BAFTA Chair Krishnendu Majumdar reiterated the Academy's vow to 'level the playing field' by recognising a more diverse range of nominees

'Two years ago, we launched a wide-ranging review into our voting, membership and campaigning processes and I want to thank the BAFTA members and the wider industry for embracing these changes.

'Our goal is to level the playing field for awards entries so that more films and the true diverse range of exceptional creative talent in the UK and internationally is represented and celebrated. With 48 films nominated today, we're delighted to be able to shine a spotlight on such phenomenal breadth of stories and performances.'

In 2020 plans were introduced to invite 1,000 new members from diverse communities within the film industry to join Bafta - the British Academy of Film and Television Art.

Such measures included special discounted rates, and conscious voter training was required of all members before they could vote for a film or performance and there will be a drive to ensure members see all movies on the longlist and not just Hollywood blockbusters.

Progress: In 2020 plans were introduced to invite 1,000 new members from diverse communities within the film industry to join Bafta - the British Academy of Film and Television Art (AJ and Tom are pictured announcing the nominations)

That year there was outrage at the exclusion of South-London born Cynthia Erivo, who received two Golden Globe nods, from the best actress nomination list for her role as runaway slave Harriet Tubman in the film Harriet even though she'd been nominated for an Oscar.

Many said that Harriet hadn't been marketed enough while cash was thrown at big budget picture, and there was also dismay that no female directors were listed in the best director section.

The 2020 shortlist also saw Jennifer Lopez, 50, who is of Puerto Rican heritage, miss out on a nomination for her acclaimed role in Hustlers.

Awkwafina, who is of Chinese descent and picked up a Golden Globe for Best Actress, fail to pick up a nomination for The Farewell, though she was recognised in this year's rising star category.

At the time, Amanda expressed her disdain at the lack of female nominees in the Best Director category - with Greta Gerwig one of the most prominent snubs for critically-acclaimed Little Women.

She said: 'If you look at the director category this year in which I hoped we would see at least one female director, that is an incredibly strong list.

'When I'm looking at the performance categories and the lack of diversity, I think you positioned it very well.

'BAFTA has a role to play here, it can't tell the industry which films to greenlight and who to hire but what it can do is make sure it is finding and supporting talented people and giving them every opportunity to succeed. Talent is everywhere but opportunity is not.'

Elsewhere, leading the films and stars shut out from the awards was the Princess Diana biopic Spencer.

It was revealed that the film had missed out on any nods, leaving Kristen Stewart fans alleging that Diana's son Prince William's BAFTA presidency was to blame.

Flooding Twitter once the news was announced, film buffs noted the absence of the movie in the nods was 'suspicious yet unsurprising', as William and his brother Harry are said to be less than pleased with various depictions of their late mother.

William, The Duke of Cambridge, has been President of BAFTA since February 2010. His work involves working with charities within the organisation and he attends BAFTA events, including the main ceremony, in his role.

Kenneth didn't make it in for Best Director for his widely lauded film Belfast, although it did make it up for Best Film and Outstanding British Film.

Kenneth wasn't the only shock name missing from the Director list - as while Dune has led the way for nominations with 11 nods - director Denis Villeneuve wasn't able to add to his two previous BAFTA Best Director nominations .

Although there has been plenty of Oscar buzz surrounding Nicole Kidman's work in Being The Ricardos, she was snubbed by BAFTA - with the biopic on Lucille Ball only earning nods in Original Score and Original Screenplay.

Other high profile actors snubbed by BAFTA included The Tragedy of Macbeth co-stars Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand.

It comes after the nominations for the coveted BAFTA Rising Star Award, the only award voted for by the general public, were announced on Tuesday.

No Time To Die star Lashana Lynch and A Quiet Place's Millicent Simmonds join The King's Man star Harris Dickinson, West Side Story's Ariana DeBose and The Power of the Dog's Kodi Smit-McPhee on the star-studded nominations list.

Previous winners of the award have included James McAvoy, Eva Green, Tom Hardy, Kristen Stewart, Tom Holland, Letitia Wright and Micheal Ward.

Important: No Time To Die's Lashana Lynch and deaf A Quiet Place star Millicent Simmonds are among the stars shortlisted for public-voted EE Rising Star Award

This year's selecting jury was made up of the chair of BAFTA and television Krishnendu Majum, actress and director Sadie Frost, actress Michelle Dockery, and casting directors Lucy Bevan and Leo Davis, producer Uzma Hasan and talent agent Ikki El-Amriti.

Millicent - who has made history as the first deaf nominee - found worldwide fame starring in 2018's A Quiet Place and the 2021 sequel which charts s family struggles for survival in a world where most humans have been killed by blind but noise-sensitive creatures.

Discussing the impact of her newfound fame, she revealed: 'I have a lot of young people who come up to me and say it's awesome to have our language on screen.

'I didn't have that growing up so I feel really honoured and touched to give them a place where they can dream. It's very inspirational for me.'

Ones to watch: Also up for the coveted accolade are (L-R) The King's Man star Harris Dickinson, West Side Story's Ariana DeBose and The Power of the Dog's Kodi Smit-McPhee

Iconic: Lashana made history as the first woman and the first woman of colour to carry on the legacy of 007 in her standout role as Nomi in Cary Joji Fukunaga's No Time To Die alongside Daniel Craig

Lashana made history as the first woman and the first woman of colour to carry on the legacy of 007 in her standout role as Nomi in Cary Joji Fukunaga's No Time To Die, alongside Daniel Craig and Rami Malek.

She is currently filming historical epic The Woman King in South Africa and will also be seen in the film adaptation of Matthew Warchus' musical, Matilda, opposite Alisha Weir and Emma Thompson in the role of Miss Honey.

While she was unable to attend the nomination ceremony, she sent in a statement that read: 'The EE Rising Star Award is one I've always admired for recognising exciting emerging talent.

'I'm so elated for my fellow nominees who inspire myself and others, as we continue to fight for change within our industry and the world. I'm proud to be able to do that in moments like these.'

Meanwhile, Ariana - who had a breakthrough role in Steven Spielberg's musical film West Side Story - said that she hopes the movie brings in more representation for Hispanic people in Hollywood.

Spooky: Millicent - who is deaf - found worldwide fame starring in 2018's A Quiet Place and the 2021 sequel which charts s family struggles for survival in a world where most humans have been killed by blind but noise-sensitive creatures

She explained: 'I am extremely proud of the way lations are represented in film, particularly latinas. It's so nice to celebrate there's not one way to be Hispanic and I do think that what critics say, it does matter. it does matter that people go to see your movie but its most important that people see themselves reported back.

Alongside her nomination for the EE Rising Star Award, she has already won Best Supporting Actress at the Golden Globe Awards and received a nomination from Critics Choice Awards.

Commenting on her BAFTA nomination, she said: 'I am beyond humbled to join the talented group of actors that have been nominated for the EE Rising Star Award over the years. To say I'm excited is an understatement, and I'm so thankful for this recognition. Genuinely blown away.'

British actor Harris can currently be seen in cinemas starring in Matthew Vaughn's The King's Man opposite Ralph Fiennes.

Striking: Ariana - who had a breakthrough role in Steven Spielberg's musical film West Side Story - said that she hopes the movie brings in more representation for Hispanic people in Hollywood

Thrilling: British actor Harris can currently be seen in cinemas starring in Matthew Vaughn's The King's Man opposite Ralph Fiennes. He has received critical acclaim for his diverse film and television work

Talented: Rounding off the nominees is Australian actor Kodi who was praised by critics for his standout role in Jane Campion's The Power of The Dog. His performance has already earned him a Golden Globe Award

He has received critical acclaim for his diverse film and television work since breaking out in Eliza Hittman's 2017 Sundance hit Beach Rats, where he was nominated for the Best Male Lead Independent Spirit Award.

Discussing his BAFTA nomination, Harris said: 'A huge thank you to both BAFTA and EE for this nomination. Each year I've looked to the EE Rising Star Award with great admiration and respect, so to be included in this category is a real honour.

'The fact that we collectively get to tell stories for a living is enough of a reward for me, but to be noticed by such a prestigious institution really does mean a lot.'

Rounding off the nominees is Australian actor Kodi who was praised by critics for his standout role in Jane Campion's The Power of The Dog. His performance earned him a Golden Globe Award, along with a nomination from the Screen Actors Guild.

Kodi first started acting at the age of nine, making his film debut in Romulus, My Father opposite Eric Bana. He has since gone on to star in a plethora of high-profile films, including post-apocalyptic drama The Road and Dawn of The Planet of The Ape.

He said of his nomination, said: 'I have the deepest gratitude to be considered alongside my fellow nominees for the EE Rising Star Award at this year's BAFTA Film Awards ceremony. I am beyond humbled to be considered for an award that celebrates such extraordinary young talents.'

The nominations come after Rebel Wilson confirmed that she will host the upcoming ceremony.

In a statement about the news, Rebel - who recently lost 35kg - hilariously quipped 'I won't be funny because I'm no longer fat' while also joking about Prince Andrew not being able to sweat.

She wrote: 'I am very honoured to be hosting the EE British Academy Film Awards in March, where Covid will no longer exist because it will clearly have been canceled by then. It's going to be so much fun!

'I don't wanna put any pressure on this - I know I'm not going to be funny because I am no longer fat.

'And besides, I'm not going to 'sweat-it' with nerves because I have a peculiar medical condition where I can't sweat...or cause offense to people because of my adorable Australian accent.'

Back at her best: The nominations come after Rebel Wilson confirmed that she will host the upcoming ceremony (pictured presenting at the 2020 awards)

BAFTA 2022 nomination SNUBS: Awards darlings Olivia Colman and Kenneth Branagh fail to make the cut while fan favourite tick, tickBOOM! is ignored entirely

By Rebecca Lawrence for MailOnline

The nominations for the 2022 British Academy Film Awards were announced, with Dune, and The Power Of The Dog battling it out with the most nods.

Yet among the list of nominees was a lack of familiar faces, with many shocked to see the likes of awards darling Olivia Colman missed off the list for The Lost Daughter while the season's Best Director frontrunner Kenneth Branagh also failed to make the cut.

Fan favourite tick, tickBOOM! also failed to make the list, with Lin-Manuel Mirandas musical not making it into a single category, despite it earning Andrew Garfield a Golden Globe win and SAG nomination for Best Actor.

BAFTA 2022 nomination SNUBS: Awards darlings Olivia Colman failed to make the cut for her latest role in The Lost Daughter,

Olivia - who picked up a BAFTA two years ago for The Favourite - was not recognised for her latest role in The Lost Daughter, however co-star Jessie Buckley received a nod for Supporting Actress, and the film is also up for Adapted Screenplay.

Kenneth didn't make it in for Best Director for his widely lauded film Belfast, although it did make it up for Best Film and Outstanding British Film.

Kenneth wasn't the only shock name missing from the Director list - as while Dune has led the way for nominations with 11 nods - director Denis Villeneuve wasn't able to add to his two previous BAFTA Best Director nomination.

Missed off: Kenneth Branagh didn't make it in for Best Director for his widely lauded film Belfast, although it did make it up for Best Film and Outstanding British Film

Although there has been plenty of Oscar buzz surrounding Nicole Kidman's work in Being The Ricardos, she was snubbed by BAFTA - with the biopic on Lucille Ball only earning nods in Original Score and Original Screenplay.

Other high profile actors snubbed by BAFTA included The Tragedy of Macbeth co-stars Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand.

In fact, the black and white critically acclaimed Shakespeare adaptation The Tragedy of Macbeth only managed to earn a nod for Cinematography.

Other high profile actors snubbed by BAFTA included The Tragedy of Macbeth co-stars Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand.

In fact, the black and white critically acclaimed Shakespeare adaptation The Tragedy of Macbeth only managed to earn a nod for Cinematography.

Notably, Spencer - which depicts a fictional three-day period at the Queen's Sandringham Estate when Princess Diana realises her marriage to Prince Charles is over - was also missed out.

Snubbed: Fan favourite tick, tickBOOM! also failed to make the list, with Lin-Manuel Mirandas musical not making a category, despite earning Andrew Garfield a Golden Globe win

In recent years BAFTA, and many other film academies have come under fire for a lack of diversity in their nominations list, and ahead of this year's ceremony, the British Academy bosses have reiterated their vow to recognise a wider range of films and actors.

Amanda Berry, CEO of BAFTA, said: 'Congratulations to all our nominees, whose extraordinary talent and achievements have shone through in another incredible year for film.

'BAFTA celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, so it is a particularly special year for us and we are proud to be announcing the nominations from our recently redeveloped home at 195 Piccadilly.

'We look forward to celebrating our nominees' incredible talent in person when we welcome everyone to London's Royal Albert Hall for the EE British Academy Film Awards on 13 March.'

Krishnendu Majumdar, Chair of BAFTA, added: 'This year's nominations showcase a remarkable range of creative work in-front of and behind the camera. We know that by celebrating outstanding achievement today, we are inspiring future generations for years to come.

'Two years ago, we launched a wide-ranging review into our voting, membership and campaigning processes and I want to thank the BAFTA members and the wider industry for embracing these changes.

'Our goal is to level the playing field for awards entries so that more films and the true diverse range of exceptional creative talent in the UK and internationally is represented and celebrated. With 48 films nominated today, we're delighted to be able to shine a spotlight on such phenomenal breadth of stories and performances.'

The 2022 British Academy Film Awards will be hosted at London's Royal Albert Hall on Sunday 13th March.
Pakistan illegally handed over Shaksgam valley to China when Jawahar Lal Nehru was the Prime Minister of India, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at a public meeting in Amroha on Thursday. The Union Minister also stated that the Karakoram Highway was constructed by China with the support of Pakistan when Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India. Rajnath Singh further took a jibe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remark on China Pakistan closeness. Addressing a public meeting in Amroha, he said that Rahul Gandhi claimed that because of the wrong policies of the Central Government, Pakistan and China have come close. "I would like to remind him (Rahul Gandhi) that Pakistan had handed over the Shaksgam Valley illegally to China when Jawahar Lal Nehru was Prime Minister of India. Karakoram Highway was constructed through PoK when Indira Gandhi was PM and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was started in 2013 when Congress was in power," he said. Earlier on Wednesday, the Wayanad MP said, "Do not be under any illusion, do not underestimate the force that is standing in front of you. You have brought Pakistan and China together. This is the single biggest crime that you could commit against the people of India, a huge strategic mistake in Jammu and Kashmir." Singh also said, "We do not doubt our policies. Rahul Gandhi is raising questions and doubt over sacrifices and valour made by jawans in Galwan Valley while saving the honour of the country. Jawans didn't allow an inch of land to be taken away by China." Seeking votes for candidates in Amroha and Moradabad constituencies, Rajnath Singh who is also one of the star campaigners for BJP in the upcoming UP polls said that the ministers of BSP, SP and Congress have been sent to jail on corruption charges but not a single BJP Minister have been found involved in corrupt practices. "During Yogi rule, no criminal dared to walk freely in the state, they were surrendering in police stations. A state can only prosper when there is best law and order. And Yogi Adityanath is best at maintaining law and order. He is a Bulldozer Baba for criminals," he said. Despite bad weather, Singh addressed public meetings in Amroha and Moradabad. "I request if you want development in the state then do vote for BJP and this time there should be more seats of BJP than 2017," he added. Earlier, criminals used to be treated as VIPs and travelled in red beacon cars under Samajwadi Party but Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended the VIP culture and ensured Every Person is Important (EPI) culture. Uttar Pradesh assembly elections will be held in seven phases from February 10 to March 7. The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held on February 10, 14, 20, 23, 27 and March 3 and 7. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday said that they have provisionally attached immovable properties having total value of Rs 9.08 crore belonging to the Directors and their family members of Cethar Ltd, in a PMLA case related to bank fraud of Rs 895 crore.

The ED had already seized movable properties of Rs 5.63 crore between July and December 2021.

The ED initiated money laundering investigation on the basis of the FIR lodged by the CBI, Banking Security and Fraud Cell, Bangalore in 2018 against directors of Cethar Ltd Trichy under various sections of the IPC.

ED's investigation revealed that the Directors of Cethar Ltd, Subburaj and his brother N.K. Pothiraaj knowingly, with a criminal intent, siphoned off the loan amount sanctioned by the consortium of banks and acquired personal properties, jewellery and handed-over their assets to their family members.

The proceeds of crime (POC) in the case have been quantified at Rs 895.45 crore.

"The company is under liquidation for which proceedings are under process. These aspects of forgery have also been confirmed by the forensic reports," said an ED official.

The official said that further investigation in the matter is underway.
EV

Thats what JATO Dynamics revealed in an article written for Motor1 Spain . The analyst Felipe Munoz summed up all sales MEB products had  including the Skoda Enyaq iV  and some older EVs Volkswagen sold, such as the e-up!. According to Munoz, the result was that Volkswagen Group sold almost 302,000 electric vehicles in 28 European countries. That number excludes plug-in hybrids.With this sales volume, Volkswagen reached a 25% share of all the electric cars sold in Europe in 2021, a leadership it also had in 2020. Although the Model 3 was the best-sellingin the continent last year, it was not enough for Tesla to reach a market share larger than 13.9%, with close to 168,000 cars. Thanks to the title of this article, you already know that this was not enough for Tesla to retain second place.That privilege was reserved for Stellantis . Although Carlos Tavares said that politicians chose the electric car, not the automotive industry, he and his team are making sure that the automaker is competitive in that scenario. According to JATO Dynamics, all the Stellantis brands sold almost 175,000 electric cars, representing 14.5% of the European EV market share.While Tesla is worried about delivering more of the same, Volkswagen and Stellantis are launching multiple new electric vehicles over similar platforms. The latest example from Volkswagen was the Skoda Enyaq Coupe iV. On March 9, the company will present the ID. BUZZ , and there are plenty more models to arrive soon. Stellantis recently announced that all of its MPVs would be electric in 2022.Theres another threat to Teslas dominance: Chinese cars. Elon Musk once mocked their products, and Tesla fans are sure to do the same while reading this. However, EVs of Chinese origin already have 5% of the European market, having sold almost 62,000 cars. JATO Dynamics added here brands owned by Chinese companies, such as Volvo and Polestar.To be fair, Tesla only was the EV market leader in Europe in 2019, when it reached a 31% share thanks to the Model 3 introduction. It never got there again. That shows how urgently the brand needs a product that suits European customers' tastes.Even if it already had one, that shows how Teslas goal of selling 20 million cars in 2030 is delusional, at best. With all its brands, models, and factories, Volkswagen and Toyota each only manage to sell about 10 million vehicles of all kinds in their best years. Selling only four models will never get Tesla the leadership in Europe, and we are talking about a single continent. There are plenty more, with different demands, that Tesla should have in mind if it wants to maintain such hyperbolic predictions.
Outspoken food writer William Sitwell has once again courted controversy after describing villagers as 'fat-fingered farmers' in a review of a country restaurant.

William Sitwell, 52, infamously quit as editor of Waitrose magazine in 2018 after rejecting a freelancer's pitch for a series of features on vegan recipes, emailing her: 'How about a series on killing vegans, one by one?'

The dark 'joke' prompted outrage when the freelancer, journalist Selene Nelson, shared it online and Waitrose quickly distanced itself from Sitwell.

Now, the longstanding Masterchef judge has prompted uproar once again while writing about the newly-opened Holm restaurant in the village of South Petherton, Somerset.

Sitwell praised the restaurant but described locals as 'fat fingered farmers' and 'grizzled builders'.

The Eton-educated critic pondered whether it would remain open, adding: 'Maybe there'll be a vote on it in a heated meeting of the parish council.

William Sitwell, 52, who quit as editor of Waitrose magazine in 2018, has courted controversy with his latest review of a country restaurant

Sitwell has angered an entire village - by calling them 'fat fingered farmers' in a review of Holm restaurant in south Petherbridge

'Old farming types whose fingers are too fat for phones and who refuse to bank online in league with grizzled builders who only trade in cash versus the trendy Somerset newbies and these restaurateurs from London with their fancy parfaits and biodynamic wines.'

His comments sparked outrage among the community, who took to to social media to vent their irritation and called him a 'pompous prat'.

One local pub, The Brewers Arms, even invited 'fat fingered farmers' and 'grizzled builders' to feel welcome in the pub on a brightly painted sign outside.

Sitwell is a food columnist at The Telegraph and has been a longstanding judge on BBC's Masterchef since 2008. He has also appeared on the TV shows Taste, London's Greatest Hotels and The One Show as a food critic.

Proud of his Eton College background, Sitwell wrote a column for The Telegraph in 2020 saying that while it was elitist, he remembered it with 'huge affection' and looked on in horror as it 'cowers under attacks'.

Local businesses poked fun at Sitwell's review, inviting 'fat-fingered locals' and 'grizzled builders' to their hospitality

In a positive review about the new restaurant, Sitwell described how Holm's building is a former bank which features a cashpoint in a wall.

Elsewhere he wrote: 'My starter was a light and delicate chicken liver parfait, which might shock those fat-fingered locals, but was nectar to those happily exposed to metropolitan ways.'

The owners of Holm were dismayed by the critic's comments, writing on Facebook that the business 'does not share the author's sentiments'.

They said: 'It goes without saying that we don't share the author's sentiments about local people and we're saddened that an otherwise complimentary piece has been marred by rude and unnecessary rhetoric.

'We are delighted to have been welcomed into the community with a great deal of warmth and acceptance, and have thoroughly enjoyed creating relationships with individuals and businesses in South Petherton and the surrounding areas.

'Hopefully anyone who has visited the restaurant has seen that we are a welcoming, friendly space, who hold our community, our stakeholders and our suppliers with utmost respect.'

The Brewer's Arms also mocked Sitwell's insults and quipped that they accepted 'bushels of hay and straw' as well as money

Locals meanwhile expressed their irritation with Sitwell's comments online.

One man posted: 'Just read William Sitwells appalling review of local people, farmers who are the backbone of rural villages'.

John Lister wrote online: 'What a pompous prat! Might be ok to talk about your locals around your grotty London bubble, but it's not done around here.'

Jude Ryall wrote: 'Just read William Sitwell's appalling review of local people, farmers who are the backbone of rural villages.'

Sitwell today said he planned to 'offer an olive branch' to locals, posting on Twitter that he thought the sign outside The Brewers Arms was 'genius'.

He added: 'The only people who can take a joke are old Etonian toffs like me'.
Advertisement

Britain's Covid cases have bounced back to nearly 200,000 a day, according to a symptom-tracking study whose lead scientist warned the UK may be 'preempting the end of the Covid pandemic'.

King College London scientists estimate there were 195,000 people with symptomatic Covid every day as of January 31, up 22 per cent on the 159,000 recorded the week before.

Their estimates are different from the daily Covid numbers, which have daily cases hovering at around 90,000 at the moment.

The increase in symptomatic cases is now being seen in all age groups, although the rise was less steep in over-55s and slowest in the most vulnerable over-75 group. It means it is no longer just unvaccinated primary school children driving the rise  although under-18s still make up more than 80,000 daily cases.

Professor Tim Spector, the epidemiologist behind the study, warned it is 'much too early' to call the end of the pandemic, with infections expected to stay at high levels until warm weather returns in spring.

But he added it was 'encouraging' that hospitalisations and deaths are still coming down because of Omicron's lack of severity.

Meanwhile, separate data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) showed the opposite trend in cases, with confirmed infections falling 13 per cent in the week ending January 30.

Positive tests fell in 87 per cent of England's local authorities during the week, with all but 19 of the 149 seeing a drop-off in infections.

Even with high infection levels, rates of severe illness have continued to fall according to official statistics.

Analysis suggests Covid's case-fatality rate has now dropped to the same levels of flu, which has given with ministers confidence the worst of the pandemic is over.

No10 has already ditched Plan B restrictions and health bosses are expected to stop publishing daily Covid data on the Government dashboard in April, under the Government's plan to live with the virus like the flu.

Experts hailed the reported move arguing the Government should also push forward plans to end mass testing. Free lateral flows are not expected to be ditched until July.

King College London scientists estimate there were 195,000 people with symptomatic every day as of January 31, up 22 per cent on the 159,000 recorded the week before

The increase in cases is now being seen in all age groups, although the rise was less in over-55s and slowest in the most vulnerable over-75 group (purple). Previously, increases had been primarily caused by infections in children (blue), who still make up more than 80,000 daily cases

Regionally, cases were highest in the East of England (17,801), East Midlands (13,447) and South East (10,936). They were lowest in the North East (1,204) and West Midlands (2,991). Graph shows: Case rates in regions across the UK

NHS Nightingale surge hubs set up to fight Omicron wave cost 10.6million and have treated just SEVEN patients NHS Nightingale surge hubs set up to cope with Omicron cost 10.6million to build and have only treated seven patients, it was revealed today. The NHS rapidly constructed eight overflow units at the height of the fourth wave in December as Boris Johnson put the health service on a 'war footing' against Covid. They have been designed to hold up to 100 coronavirus patients each and have been assembled in the car parks of major hospitals in England But the temporary structures have mostly stood empty, with some staff complaining they are taking up valuable parking spaces. Health minister Edward Argar has revealed for the first time that the hubs cost 10,672,088 to build. And only one has actually seen any patients  at the Royal Preston Hospital in Lancashire, The Telegraph reports. It had treated just seven patients by last Friday, meaning the NHS has spent the equivalent of 1.5million per patient. Professor Karol Sikora, a cancer expert at Buckingham University, today blasted the units as an abuse of taxpayers money and a complete waste of time. He told MailOnline the money could be better spent in other areas that have missed out during the pandemic like cancer or tackling the record-breaking backlog. What is needed in the NHS is to build up capacity and the staff, he said. The key to healthcare is staff and trained staff.' Advertisement

Professor Spector said: 'While the bad news is we are again approaching 200,000 new cases a day, it's encouraging that recorded hospitalisations, ICU cases and deaths are still coming down as Omicron is less severe in a vaccinated population.

'With a lag of several weeks between infections and hospitalisations, we'll continue to monitor this rate closely in the coming weeks.

'We saw a similar rebound and second peak during the Delta wave as people relaxed more and children went back to school. It seems many are, again, preempting the end of the Covid pandemic. It's much too early for this.

'High case rates will likely be with us until late spring before the warmer weather and the summer holidays help reduce infections again.'

The ZOE Covid study is based on reports from around 840,000 weekly contributors who log symptoms after testing positive for the virus  but only 47,000 tests.

It estimated the UK R rate is around 1.1, with the same figure given for England, Scotland and Wales. One in 28 people in the UK were estimated to have a symptomatic infection in the most recent week.

Under-18s still have the highest number of Covid cases, although infections are now rising at similar paces in 18- to 34-year-olds (more than 40,000 cases) and 35- to 54-year-olds (around 50,000 cases).

Infections are lowest in over-75s (around 5,000 cases) and 55- to 74-year-olds (around 18,000).

Regionally, cases were highest in the East of England (17,801), East Midlands (13,447) and South East (10,936). They were lowest in the North East (1,204) and West Midlands (2,991).

Professor Spector added: 'Over the past few weeks, the UK government's confirmed cases data has begun to move further away from ZOE's findings. There are a number of reasons for this.

'The biggest factor is the change in testing behaviour that has happened this year. ZOE Contributors are now logging more positive lateral flow tests (LFTs) in the app, and fewer PCRs.

'LFTs no longer have to be confirmed by a PCR so are often not being logged with the government, so confirmed case data is missing thousands of LFT results, leading to massive under-reporting.

'This subtle but important change in behaviour, highlights the importance of having multiple methods to track Covid in the population and shows the power of the citizen scientists that log with ZOE every day.

'The way ZOE collects and analyses the data means our data is always ahead of the other national surveys that are just beginning to show rises.'

Meanwhile, the UKHSA data  based on official positive tests showed the opposite trend, with cases falling across almost the entirety of England last week.

Blackburn with Darwen, Lancashire, saw the biggest drop-off, with cases falling by 41 per cent. It was followed by Sunderland (35 per cent), Stockton-on-Tees in County Durham (35 per cent) and Bradford in Yorkshire (35 per cent).

Just 19 local authorities saw cases increase during the week. The Isle of Wight saw the biggest increase (20.8 per cent), followed by Gloucestershire (8.2 per cent) and York (8.1 per cent).

An Office for National Statistics (ONS) report estimated 1.33million adults were suffering symptoms of long Covid as of January 2. The graph above shows the change in long-Covid prevalence during the pandemic but gives the rate in thousands

Daily Covid stats to be ditched Daily Covid statistics are set to be dropped in April under the Government's plan to live with the virus like the flu, it was claimed today. Boris Johnson has already laid out his intention to scrap all remaining Covid laws  including the legal requirement for infected people to self-isolate  by March 24. And now a senior Whitehall source has claimed daily updates on cases, deaths and hospitalisations will be axed just weeks later. Experts today hailed the rumoured move, arguing the Government should also push forward plans to end mass testing. Free lateral flows are not expected to be ditched until July. Advertisement

The data comes after a separate report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) today showed record one in 50 Brits were living with long Covid at the start of January.

It estimated 1.33million adults were suffering symptoms of the wide-ranging condition as of January 2.

That was up 5 per cent on the 1.26million with long Covid  defined by the ONS as having symptoms for four or more weeks after infection  on December 6.

Fatigue was the most common ailment experience by sufferers, affecting half of people.

The new estimate will only include the very early effects of the Omicron surge in December  because of the time it takes to develop the condition.

There are concerns that long Covid prevalence could rise sharply after record numbers of people caught the disease this winter.

However, it is not yet known how the mild variant's decreased severity could impact long Covid.

Statisticians also estimated 554,000 were still suffering a year after catching the virus  the highest figure on record.

The estimates are based on a survey of 306,000 people who self-reported suffering with long Covid, meaning they were not necessarily diagnosed.

Experts have previously cast doubt over the ONS's long Covid sufferer findings, with some saying they are likely to be an overestimation given symptoms like headaches and fatigue can be linked to a variety of conditions.
Why are missionaries drawn to their work? Most would answer that their consuming passion is to share the gospel, in obedience to Christs command to make disciples of all nations. And they would probably recoil at any suggestion of earning fame, glory, or honor for themselves.

For good reason, missionaries tend to resist thinking of missionary service as something that might bring any kind of reward, apart from the inherent satisfaction of leading others to Christ. In Mission Affirmed: Recovering the Missionary Motivation of Paul, Elliot Clark draws on the apostle and his letters to the Corinthians to suggest that the pursuit of rewards isnt necessarily out of place.

Clark, who works with Training Leaders International, reminds readers that Paul wasnt content merely to reach more people with the gospelhe also sought Gods approval of his work. A missionarys willingness to sacrifice in service to God, he argues, isnt just a matter of denying oneself for the sake of the mission. These sacrifices also anticipate the moment of Christs return, when workers in the harvest will be repaid according to their labors (1 Cor. 3:8). Clark wants to restore a sense that missionaries should fervently seek Gods praise.

The book, however, is not limited to the question of missionary motivations. Clark addresses several contemporary issues in missions, making the book relevant not only to missionaries in the field but also to students of cross-cultural missions, mission leaders, and local churches. Between his training in cross-cultural mission, his education at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, his years of experience planting churches in Central Asia, and his travels around the ...

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Burma Kachin Independence Army, PDFs Attack Myanmar Junta Bases in Kachin State

KIA and PDF troops display rifles, magazines and other hardware seized from junta soldiers during an attack on the Sum Pium military base in Putao Township, Kachin State on Feb. 1, 2022. / Putao-PDF

One of Myanmars major ethnic armed resistance groups, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), and local Peoples Defense Forces in Kachin States Putao, Mohnyin and Hpakant attacked at least five junta military bases and a police station this week, showing unwavering armed resistance against the countrys military regime, whose grip on power turned one year old on Tuesday.

The attacks against junta bases occurred in six locations in Mohnyin, Hpakant and Myitkyina on Thursday and three locations in Putao on Tuesday, but KIA spokesman Colonel Naw Bu said they only occupied about three of them and destroyed and abandoned the other locations.

The KIAs involvement in the fighting shows its persistent stand with the people in their fight against the military dictatorship, said Col. Naw Bu.

If the military regime keeps on enforcing its military approach, the fighting will continue. The police stations and militia groups are all under military control and serving the junta, not the people, and [instead] harassing the people, the spokesman said.

Early Thursday morning, KIA and PDF troops attacked and destroyed the police station in Mohnyins Mawhan Village. Around that time, the combined force also attacked a junta army base; Jaya Yang in Lone Khin Village, Hpakant, a jade town; and a military outpost on the Myitkyina-Sumprabum road.

The KIAs Battalion No. 35under Brigade 8and PDFs attacked the junta-controlled police post at 3 a.m. in Mawhan, completing the attack before dawn, said Col. Naw Bu. U Saw from the Mohnyin Revolution group said an army officer and a policeman died in Mawhan. Col. Naw Bu could not confirm the reported deaths and other captures, however.

Casualties are inevitable in any clashes, but we havent received such reports from the ground troops yet, Col. Naw Bu told The Irrawaddy on Thursday.

On Feb. 1, a year after the coup, the KIA and PDF forces jointly attacked and occupied military bases in Sum Pium and Long Sha Yang in Putao Township.

The Putao-PDF said they captured a junta soldier, but the KIA could not confirm it.

Pictures posted by the Putao-PDF show seized junta MA assault rifles, Energa grenades, magazines and bulletproof vests.

The KIA and PDFs also attacked junta troops between Putaos Sum Pium Village and the border of Sumprabum Township in early January.

The attacks against the Myanmar regime troops on the coups anniversary shows that opposition to the regime is still going strong.

More than 400 clashes occurred between the KIA and junta troops in Kachin and northern Shan states over the past year, Col. Naw Bu said.

However, the KIA did not occupy all the military bases it attacked and seized. One exception was the strategic hilltop Alaw Bum base, which is near the groups headquarters in Laiza in Kachin States Waingmaw Township and has been occupied since March last year.

Also on Tuesday, KIA Brigade 8 troops attacked the juntas Infantry Battalion No. 241 in Kutkai Township, northern Shan State.

The junta responded with artillery shelling, which injured a man belonging to a local relief association, a Kutkai resident told The Irrawaddy on Wednesday.

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New York:

With the induction of Rafale fighter jets in the air force, India will not have to cross the borders to "eliminate the terror camps" in Pakistan but can do it from the country itself, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in New York. Singh arrived in the US on Monday for the US-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington on December 18.

Addressing members of the Indian community at an event organised by the Consulate General of India at the educational organisation, Asia Society, he applauded the courage and valour of India's armed forces and recalled his France visit in October to receive the first of the 36 Rafale fighter jets at a facility of Dassault Aviation in the French port city of Bordeaux.A A

Now that India will have the jets, "if we have to eliminate the terror camps, there will be no need to take the planes to Pakistan. We can do it from India", Singh said amid loud applause from the audience.

Replying to a member of the audience who commented that Singh had said that if talks are held with Pakistan, it will now only be on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the defence minister said, "Baat kya hogi, PoK toh apna hai hi (What is there to talk, PoK is ours)", amidst loud cheers from those present.

Singh had said that if talks were held with Pakistan in future, it would be only on PoK.

Singh said India's military strength is increasing, but the country also takes precaution even when dealing with Pakistan.

He said if India wanted, it could have attacked the military establishments and civilian areas in Pakistan but that would have resulted in a lot of casualties.

"But we took precaution and decided that we have to target and eliminate only those places where there are terror training camps. Not a single civilian was killed and neither did we attack any Pakistani military establishment. We never want to attack a country's sovereignty. This is our character," he said.

Singh said India wants to have good relations with Pakistan. He referred to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee going to Lahore in 1999. "But what did Pakistan give to us in return - Kargil."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also decided to invite Heads of State and government of neighbouring countries to his oath-taking ceremony in 2014.

During his first term on 2014, Modi had extended invitation to SAARC leaders, including the then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif, to his oath-taking ceremony.

"This signifies the thought process of our Prime Minister. We should have good relations with our neighbouring countries...but how Pakistan behaves with us, you can see," Rajnath said.A

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Prince Andrew is no stranger to flattering portraits depicting him with a chest full of military medals - but this latest one is unlikely to feature among his favourites.

The Duke of York has been caricatured by a graffiti artist who has sprayed a less-than-flattering image of the royal across a wall in Oxford.

The caricature depicts the under-fire prince in a red Grenadier Guards uniform wearing a 'Jim Fixed It For Me' badge.

The badges were handed out on the long running television show 'Jim'll Fix It' which was fronted by serial sex offender Jimmy Savile.

The shamed TV star, who may have targeted as many as 300 victims, died before his horrific crimes were ever properly brought to light.

There has never been a link between Savile and Prince Andrew, who is currently facing a US lawsuit over claims he sexually assaulted Jeffrey Epstein victim Virginia Roberts. The 61-year-old denies the allegations.

It is unclear at present who the artist behind the graffiti is or what their intentions were.

However one local councillor for the area said the caricature demonstrated the 'strength of feelings' held by local residents towards the Duke.

Oxford City Councillor, Shaista Aziz, said the portrait showed the 'anger' of people in the city.

Speaking to the Oxford Mail, she said: 'I was on my way to a meeting this morning when I spotted the art work.

Duke of York has been caricatured (pictured) by a graffiti artist who has sprayed a less-than-flattering image of the royal across a wall in Oxford

The 61-year-old Duke (pictured here leaving Windsor Royal Lodge) is currently facing a US lawsuit over claims he sexually assaulted Jeffrey Epstein victim Virginia Roberts. He denies the allegations

The caricature shows the under-fire Prince (pictured right) wearing a 'Jim Fixed It For Me' badge - alluding to the long running television show of serial sex offender Jimmy Savile (pictured left). The shamed TV star, who may have targeted as many as 300 victims, died before his horrific crimes were ever properly brought to light. There is no link between Savile and Prince Andrew.

'I crossed the road to take a photo of it and was struck by how powerful the message and symbolism of it is.

'I think it reflects just how angry and engaged people are about the state of democracy in our country.

'It speaks to power, the establishment and it speaks about how both reinforce each other's power to the detriment of the people.'

It is not the first time Prince Andrew, who earlier this month was stripped of his military affiliations, has been the target of graffiti artists.

In November last year he featured in a Banksy-style piece depicting him delivering pizza boxes, with the phrase: 'Don't sweat it we deliver'.

Prince Andrew is more used to portraits depicting him with a chest full of military medals (pictured: A portrait seen on a sign outside the Duke of York pub in London). It is not the first time Prince Andrew, who earlier this month was stripped of his military affiliations , has been the target of graffiti artists. In November last year he featured in a Banksy-style piece depicting him delivering pizza boxes, with the phrase: 'Don't sweat it we deliver'.

The phrase is a reference to an answer given in his disastrous 2019 Newsnight interview with Emily Maitlis in which the Prince claimed he could not medically sweat.

He also denied sexually assaulting Ms Roberts, who now goes by her married of Guiffre, because he was with friends at Pizza Express on the night of the alleged sex attack.

It comes as it was revealed Prince Andrew's lawyers want to quiz the husband of Ms Roberts over her 'role in recruiting and trafficking underage girls' for paedophile Epstein.

Ms Roberts, 38, is suing Andrew in New York for battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress after claiming in a civil suit that she was trafficked by Epstein and forced to have sex with Andrew on three occasions when she was 17.

Robert Giuffre and Virginia Roberts, who is suing under her married name of Giuffre, pictured together

As the case moves ahead, British legal authorities must help with the request from accuser Ms Roberts to interview his former equerry, Major Robert Olney. Pictured: Andrew, Roberts and Maxwell

Paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein pictured in custody in 2017. He died by suicide in prison in August 2019

Furious Tories brand Boris Johnson a 'pound shop Trump' for far-right Jimmy Savile 'slur' about Keir Starmer Boris Johnson has been branded a 'pound shop Trump' by his own MPs for refusing to back down after repeating a far-right Jimmy Savile 'slur' about Keir Starmer. The Prime Minister targeted Sir Keir over his time as director of public prosecutions on Monday as he addressed MPs over Sue Gray's Partygate report. He alleged the Labour leader had 'used his time prosecuting journalists and failing to prosecute Jimmy Savile' and has since refused to withdraw the claim, which first emerged on hard Right websites. Sir Keir was DPP more than a decade ago when the CPS decided not to prosecute Savile for child sex offences - although he was not directly involved in the decision. After his death DJ and presenter Savile was revealed as one of the UK's most prolific child sex offenders, with crimes spanning decades. Mr Johnson's decision to double down at Prime Ministers Questions yesterday has reported alarmed many of his MPs. Some have now likened him to the fake news-spouting former US president, the Times reported. They find themselves in the unusual position of agreeing with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who yesterday branded the PM 'Trumpian'. But Mr Johnson was defended by Foreign Office ministerr James Cleverly today, as he told the BBC the comment was a legitimate criticism rather than a smear. He claimed that Sir Keir's refusal to take responsibility for what happened on his watch was in contrast to the PM's actions over Partygate. The MP for Braintree told Radio 4's Today programme: 'The point is, if the criticism that Keir Starmer is laying on the Prime Minister is about taking responsibility for the actions of an organisation he leads, I think raising the point that Keir Starmer himself has experience is a criticism.' Sir Keir laid into the PM today, saying Mr Johnson's tactic was to 'drag everyone into the gutter with him'. Advertisement

However, Judge Lewis Kaplan has now written to Australia's Attorney General to secure their assistance in arranging an interview with Robert Giuffre, Ms Roberts' husband since 2002, after the duke's legal team invoked the Hague Convention to question him under oath on Monday.

In his letter, the judge said Prince Andrew's lawyers want to speak to Mr Giuffre about the couple's living arrangements in Australia, any conversations he has had with his wife about the duke, her 'alleged childhood abuse' and aspects of her income, The Mirror reports.

The letter added that the duke's legal team has asked that 'Mr Giuffre be examined' about his wife's 'role in recruiting and trafficking underage girls for Epstein'.

The judge has also asked the country's Attorney General for their assistance in securing an interview with Ms Roberts' therapist Dr Judith Lightfoot.

Andrew's lawyers want details of any medical treatment she may have received, any diagnosis she may have been given and her medical history.

The letter continues that they want to access the bills charged by Dr Lightfoot, as well as any alleged 'emotional and psychological harm and damages' suffered by Ms Roberts.

Both interviews are expected to take place on April 29.

Andrew's lawyer in the US, Andrew Brettler, is understood to have a 'strong opinion' that he should fly to Australia to conduct the interview in Perth - close to where Ms Roberts' now resides.

It comes as Judge Kaplan also approved requests for four people to be formally interviewed in the UK and Australia yesterday.

As the case moves ahead, British legal authorities must help with the request from accuser Ms Roberts to interview his former equerry, Major Robert Olney.

Her lawyers, David Boies and Sigrid McCawley, want to ask Major Olney about Andrew's dealings with Epstein.

They also want to talk to a woman, Shukri Walker, who says she saw Miss Roberts with Andrew at a London nightclub in 2001, after which Miss Roberts claims she had to have sex with him.

Mark Stephens CBE, of London law firm Howard Kennedy, said of the request by Miss Roberts  now married as Mrs Giuffre  to conduct interviews in the UK: 'It's obviously closing the net around Andrew.'

The requests for help from foreign legal authorities were filed in mid January and were approved yesterday (Monday) by Judge Kaplan.

They cite the Hague Convention on taking of evidence abroad in civil matters as the basis on which they must be carried out.

The request states that they should be filed with the Senior Master in the Foreign Process Section at the High Court in London.

Ms Roberts' lawyers, David Boies and Sigrid McCawley, want to ask Major Olney (pictured) about Andrew's dealings with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein

Mrs Giuffre, 38, (pictured) is suing Andrew in New York for battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. She claims that at 17 she was loaned to the Duke for sex by Epstein

Once the request is received, Ms Roberts' lawyers from Boies Schiller Flexner in the UK will make an application for further details about assistance, the letter states.

Ms Roberts is suing the duke for unspecified damages, which US lawyers say could be more than 14million if she is successful.

Andrew strongly denies Ms Roberts' allegations, but Judge Kaplan rejected his request last month to have the case dismissed.

After the decision the Duke was stripped of most of his remaining royal patronages and military titles which were returned to The Queen.
(Alliance News) - Georgia Capital PLC said on Thursday subsidiary JSC Georgia Capital has completed the first stage of disposal of its controlling interest in waterworks company Georgia Global Utilities JSC.

The Tbilisi-based investor in businesses in Georgia said JSC Georgia Capital had received USD180 million from FCC Aqualia, a Spanish water management company, following the completion of the initial disposal of a 65% equity interest in GGU, which constituted an 85% economic interest.

JSC Georgia Capital still holds a 35% equity stake in GGU, which is a 20% economic interest, and a 100% economic interest in the renewable energy assets of the business.

The second stage of the transaction is a demerger, expected to occur in July or August of this year. It is conditional on receiving antitrust clearance, and GGU redeeming an existing Eurobond. Following this, JSC Georgia Capital will own 100% of GGU's renewable energy assets and a 20% interest in the company.

Georgia Capital has said the net proceeds of the sale will eventually be deployed in share buybacks investments in securities, increasing cash balances, further investments and lending to portfolio companies. In the short-term, proceeds will be held in cash and debt securities pending a board review.

USD95.4 million will go towards refinancing GGU's outstanding green bond, and will go towards payment in respect of the renewable energy business.

"We look forward to working closely with Aqualia as their minority partner in GGU over the next few years. Completion of this disposal represents a key strategic milestone that realises material cash proceeds for JSC Georgia Capital, at a substantial premium to GGU's latest independent investment value," said Georgia Capital Chair and Chief Executive Officer Irakli Gilauri.

Georgia Capital's share price was up 1.2% to 683.00 pence each in London on Thursday morning.

By Elizabeth Winter; elizabethwinter@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Clayton, Dubilier & Rice today announced Anand Shah, M.D., former U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") Deputy Commissioner for Medical and Scientific Affairs, as an Operating Advisor to CD&R funds. Dr. Shah will work with CD&R's healthcare team to source new investments and advise the funds' healthcare businesses.

During his tenure in the federal government, Dr. Shah was a leader in bringing new technologies to market, redesigning health care delivery and economic incentives, and expanding competition and consumer choice. At the FDA, he led consensus policy development for fit-for-purpose programs, including Advanced Manufacturing, vaccine development, digital health, consumer protection, and decentralized clinical trials. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Shah guided the FDA's policy development for preparedness and recovery efforts.

"Dr. Shah is a nationally recognized physician leader and health policy expert who brings a wealth of experience in healthcare innovation, value-based care, and the key factors influencing the industry's costs and spending  areas that are critical to our investment judgments," said CD&R Partner Ravi Sachdev. "Dr. Shah has been an important resource in our efforts to create new value-based care models, and we have enormous respect for his experience and capabilities."

"CD&R has a record of leading the way in healthcare innovation and building companies that are making a real impact on the quality of care and delivery," said Dr. Shah. "I admire CD&R's vision to invest behind healthcare innovators dedicated to improving medical outcomes as well as much needed efficiency and look forward to supporting these important efforts in my new role."

Dr. Shah also served in senior leadership roles at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services ("CMS"). As Senior Medical Advisor, he was responsible for CMS policy development related to medical and scientific innovation. As Chief Medical Officer of the CMS Innovation Center, Dr. Shah led the clinical design of novel value-based payment and service delivery models, including those for advanced primary care and specialty care. Dr. Shah developed and led a survivorship clinic for the care of patients on cancer clinical trials at the National Institutes of Health. He has served as an Adjunct Senior Fellow at the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics at the University of Pennsylvania and led Duke University's Center for Excellence in Surgical Outcomes as Associate Director. Dr. Shah's scientific track record includes publications in the New England Journal of Medicine, JAMA, Health Affairs, Cancer, and Nature Reviews Drug Discovery.

Dr. Shah was chief resident during his radiation oncology residency at Columbia University. He concurrently earned his M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.P.H. in health care management and policy from the Harvard School of Public Health after graduating with honors from Duke University with a degree in economics. Dr. Shah has served as a Canada-U.S. Fulbright Scholar.

Currently, Dr. Shah serves on the boards of directors of Adagio Therapeutics, Big Health, Hero, and CD&R fund portfolio company, M2GEN. CD&R's healthcare services investments since 2018 include agilon health, a primary care company transforming healthcare for seniors, Huntsworth, an international pharmaceutical commercialization services platform, M2GEN, an innovative oncology-focused informatics business supporting treatment breakthroughs, Millennium Physician Group, one of Florida's largest physician groups, naviHealth, which provides senior-centered care through partnerships with health plans and providers, UDG Healthcare, a leading healthcare advisory, communications, commercial, clinical and packaging services platform, and Vera Whole Health, a value-based care company at the forefront of employee-sponsored care.

About Clayton, Dubilier & Rice

Clayton, Dubilier & Rice is a private investment firm with a strategy predicated on building stronger, more profitable businesses. Since inception, CD&R has managed the investment of more than $40 billion in over 100 companies with an aggregate transaction value of more than $175 billion. The Firm has offices in New York and London. For more information, please visit www.cdr-inc.com.

SOURCE Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
Burma Myanmar Regime Detains Over 100 People for Supporting Silent Strike Online

Junta troops deploying in Yangon after the February 1, 2021 coup. / The Irrawaddy

Myanmars junta has arrested and charged more than a hundred people in the past week for their social media posts in support of the anti-regime movement

Those detained include businessmen, shop owners, two doctors, a nurse, two former lawmakers from the National League for Democracy Party, young people and a monk.

At least 109 critics of the junta, mostly from Yangon, were hunted from January 27 to February 2 for their posts on Facebook, according to reports in junta-controlled newspapers. Others were arrested in Mandalay, Sagaing, Tanintharyi, Bago, Ayeyarwady and Magwe regions and in Shan, Kayin and Kachin states.

The newspaper reports stated that the detainees spread posts aimed at destabilizing the state and inciting people. They accused them of connecting with or supporting the parallel civilian National Unity Government, the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and Peoples Defense Forces, all of whom the military regime has labeled as terrorist groups.

Most of the detainees are business owners and shopkeepers who posted online that their businesses or shops would be closed on Tuesday in support of the silent strike that marked one year since the juntas coup. Regime troops sealed off the detainees houses and shops.

On January 25, the junta warned that anyone taking part in the silent strike will face prosecution under a wide range of laws which carry harsh jail sentences including life imprisonment.

Immediately after the announcement, Myanmar military supporters gave information about people who notified their customers that they would be closed for the silent strike or who promoted the protest online.

Among the confirmed arrests are owners of restaurants, delivery businesses, food stalls, cell phone shops, cafes, fashion shops, as well as a makeup artist and a fortune teller.

Despite the arrests and threats of harsh punishment from the military regime, Myanmar staged the silent strike on Tuesday, in which the Myanmar people demonstrated their defiance against the junta, which continues to insist that normalcy is returning to the country.

People stayed at home for six hours and cities, towns and roads nationwide were mostly deserted, sending a clear message to the regime that the Myanmar people reject military rule.

The regime continues to struggle to control the country due to widespread civil and armed resistance.

Since the coup, the junta has killed 1,510 people and detained another 11.800.



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Chennai, Feb 3 : Calling Simbu the one person he could always look up to for guidance, actor Mahat Raghavendra on Thursday wished Silambarasan aka Simbu a very happy birthday.

Taking to Instagram, Mahat wrote, "To the person who I love a lot, and to the person who has always showered his love on me. To the friend who has always been the driving force and has seen my ups and downs.

"To the one person I can always look up for guidance and know he will only do what's best for me. To the prankster who pulls my leg and still watches out for me.

"Thank you for always being there and loving me unconditionally. Happy birthday macha! Here's to a lot more years of happiness and fun with you around." Mahat Raghavendra was not the only one to wish the actor a happy birthday. Scores of Simbu fans and celebrities from the film industry too greeted the actor.

One other actor who wished Simbu was Sibi Sathyaraj, son of actor Sathyaraj.

Taking to Twitter, Sibi said: "Wishing my dear friend Silambarasan, who has always been a great moral support to me throughout my journey, a wonderful birthday. May your happiness and success be repeated in loop mode."
In five years time the People's Liberation Army will be 100 years in operation. Prominent academic Jin Canrong: Beijing can take the island in a week, and the US can't avoid it. Pentagon prepares response with mobilising of troops and military machinery in the region. Nationalist professor reprimands Japan.

Beijing (AsiaNews) - China will try to invade Taiwan by 2027, Jin Canrong, an influential professor of international studies has told Nikkei Asia. The Renmin University academic is a popular advisor to the government, and is considered a foreign policy hawk.

Jin is convinced that the US can do little to prevent the forced reunification of Taiwan: in his view, China is in a position of superiority given the geographical advantage the Asian giant enjoys.

Beijing considers Taiwan a 'rebel province' and has never ruled out retaking it by force. The island has been de facto independent from Beijing since 1949; at that time Chiang Kai-shek's nationalists found refuge there after losing the civil war on the mainland to the communists, making it the heir to the Republic of China founded in 1912.

Xi has set unification with Taiwan as a primary goal, but without specifying a date. Jin maintains that after the 20th Congress of the Chinese Communist Party closes in autumn - with Xi's new coronation - concrete preparations for the invasion will begin.

The 2027 deadline indicated by the Chinese expert has a very symbolic value for the Party: it will be the 100th anniversary of the birth of the People's Liberation Army.

The nationalist professor believes armed conflict will be almost inevitable. He leaves little room for the possibility of a peaceful reunification, since the Taiwanese political force willing to dialogue with Beijing (the Kuomintang) has little chance of regaining power.

Jin's prediction largely coincides with those of the US generals. According to the Taipei government, however, China already has the capability to invade Taiwan and will be able to launch a "large-scale" attack against the island by 2025. The Renmin professor argues that Beijing can take the island in a week and that Chinese forces can hold off US forces within 1,000 km of its coast.

China's strategic objective is to prevent the US from crossing the "first island chain", the ideal line connecting southern Japan with the island of Papua, which also includes Taiwan and the Philippines. For this reason, Jin points out, the Chinese Armed Forces are refining their ability to use missiles as a threat to the naval and air operations of the US military units, and also to Washington's bases in the Western Pacific - especially those in Japan and Guam.

However, US strategists contacted by AsiaNews explain that the Pentagon is ready to respond to Chinese offensive plans. The US military's idea is to deploy highly mobile troops and armaments to the islands in the region, so as not to give the People's Liberation Army any references.

With the Taiwan Relations Act, the US promised to defend Taipei, in particular with military supplies. Adopted in 1979 after the formal diplomatic recognition of Communist China, the measure does not specify the actual nature of Washington's commitment: a "strategic ambiguity" that produces continuous tensions with the Chinese government.

Jin, who acts almost like a Foreign Ministry spokesman, goes on to warn Japan not to join the US in the event of a conflict over Taiwan. He cautions that if Taipei is helped, Tokyo will be defeated like Washington: according to the Chinese academic, the Japanese must get used to the idea that a new course is opening up in East Asia.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is still highly influential in domestic politics, said in early December that an attack on Taipei is an "emergency" for Tokyo too. Last month, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced that the country would reinforce its defences in the Ryukyu islands: the archipelago - which hosts important American bases - stretches between the southern island of Kyushu and Taiwan.

Tensions are now high between Beijing and Tokyo. On 1 February, the lower house of the Japanese parliament passed a resolution condemning the humanitarian situation in China, with direct references to Hong Kong, Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia and Tibet. The Chinese government responded by referring to it as a 'serious provocation'.
Religious populations growing faster than atheists worldwide; 2 Christian denominations stand out: report

Despite an increase in the overall number of atheists worldwide, new research reveals that the population of religious people is growing at a faster pace than that of their secular counterparts.

Lifeway Research has identified 7 Encouraging Trends of Global Christianity in 2022 based on data collected by the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at the Massachusetts-based Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Specifically, the data titled the 2022 Status of Global Christianity report, demonstrates that religious faith is growing faster than the irreligious.

The 2022 Status of Global Christianity report includes statistics about Christianity from 1900, 1970, 2000 and mid-2022 and features projections for 2025 and 2050. The data found that the population of religionists, those who subscribe to a particular religion, grew at a rate of 1.27% between 2000 and 2022. By contrast, the number of atheists only grew at a rate of 0.18% in the same time period.

While the number of atheists in the world has increased from approximately 141.5 million in 2000 to about 147 million now, the number of atheists remains below the record high of 165,156,000 measured in 1970. The number of atheists is predicted to decrease to approximately 143 million by 2050. The number of religionists increased from about 5.3 billion in 2000 to roughly 7 billion now and is projected to approach 9 billion by 2050.

Another encouraging trend touched upon by Lifeway is the growth of Christianity in particular. The number of Christians worldwide increased 1.17% from 2000 to 2022.

Christian denominations that experienced the fastest growth rates are Evangelicals (1.8%) and Pentecostals/charismatics (1.88%). The increase in the number of Pentecostals worldwide is expected to continue at a rapid pace. While fewer than 1 million people across the globe identified as Pentecostal in 1900, that number is expected to top 1 billion in 2050.

By 2050, Pentecostals could account for roughly one-third of the 3.33 billion Christians. Pentecostals were measured as the second-largest group of Christians in 2022, with Catholics taking the top spot. There were about 1.25 billion Catholics in 2022, and that number is expected to rise to around 1.5 billion by 2050.

Additionally, Lifeway noted that Christianity is growing the fastest in the global south, consisting of Africa, Asia, Latin America and Oceania. The share of Christians in Africa soared by a rate of 2.27% in the past 22 years. Asia, Latin America and Oceania also saw rapid growth rates in the number of Christians measured at 1.50%, 1.09% and 0.73%, respectively.

Currently, Africa is home to about 700 million Christians, while Asia has about 400 million, Latin America has roughly 600 million and approximately 29 million reside in Oceania. The growth in Christianity in the global south is expected to continue into 2050. By then, about 1.3 billion Christians are projected to live in Africa, along with more than half a million residing in Asia, nearly 700 million in Latin America, and about 35 million in Oceania.

Another finding from the 2022 Status of Global Christianity report reveals that Christianity has become less concentrated in Christian-majority countries. In other words, while there are more Christians worldwide, these Christians are spread out among more countries. The percentage of Christians who live in a country where Christianity is the majority religion decreased from 59% in 2000 to 53.7% in 2022. By 2050, the study estimates that most Christians (50.4%) will live in a country where Christianity is not the dominant religion.

Non-Christians exposure to Christians has also increased over the years. In 2022, 18.3% of non-Christians surveyed said they knew a Christian. That figure has gradually increased over the years, with 5.4% saying the same in 1900. The percentage of non-Christians who know a Christian is expected to increase to 20% in 2050.

The number of Bibles printed in 2022 is expected to increase substantially compared to 2000. The 2022 Status of Global Christianity report predicts that 93 million Bibles will be printed worldwide this year, compared to the 54 million printed in 2000. The number of Bibles printed is projected to reach 120 million in 2050.

The decrease in the number of Christians who died for their faith constituted the final encouraging trend of Global Christianity in 2022. While the number of Christian martyrs over a 10-year period reached a high of 1.6 million in 2000, that number has dropped by nearly half to around 900,000 in 2022. By 2050, the number of Christian martyrs is forecast to rise to 1 million.
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New Delhi:

In a shocking remark, Union Minister of State for Railways on Tuesday told news agency ANI that he has told the district administration and railway authorities concerned that if anybody destroys public property, they can be shot at sight.

"I have told the district administration and railway authorities concerned that if anybody destroys public property, they can be shot at sight. I am giving this directive as a Union Minister," Suresh Angadi, the Union Minister of State for Railways, told news agency ANI.

#WATCH Union Min of State of Railways, Suresh Angadi speaks on damage to properties. Says "...I strictly warn concerned dist admn&railway authorities, if anybody destroys public property, including railway, I direct as a Minister, shoot them at sight..." #CitizenshipAmendmentAct pic.twitter.com/VeUpZY7AjX  ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2019

The controversial statement comes amid nationwide protests against the amended Citizenship Act, which aims to make it easier for non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh to become Indian nationals.

Earlier today, angry protesters demanding scrapping of the amended citizenship law torched several motor bikes, pelted stones at police personnel and damaged buses and a police booth in Northeast Delhi's Seelampur area on Tuesday afternoon, in fresh violence in the national capital. Police resorted to baton charge and fired tear gas shells to disperse the protesters.

Plumes of smoke billowed from at least two localities as the standoff continued for around one-and-a-half hours. Police said the situation has been brought under control. They said two bikes of traffic cops were burnt by the demonstrators, adding a police booth in the area was vandalised and CCTV cameras installed there were taken away by the mob. Some security personnel were also injured in the incident, police said.

The clashes erupted two days after violence broke out during a protest in the New Friends area in South Delhi near Jamia Millia Islamia.

A large number of policemen were deployed as tension prevailed in Seelampur and adjoining areas following the violence. Police said the protesters were marching from Seelampur towards Zaffrabad. Clashes erupted at Seelampur Chowk when the security personnel tried to stop the protesters from moving ahead. According to a senior police officer, the protest began at around 12 noon. The protesters raised slogans against the new law as well as the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Another senior police officer said the the situation is now under control. Faisal Ahmed, a protestor, said, "We have come here to raise our voice against CAA and NRC. I got injuries on my right leg during police attack." Police said there were initially small groups of people who started the protest against the CAA and they went in lanes and bylanes of Seelampur. By the time they came on the Zaffrabad main road, there were almost 3,000 people and the police were escorting them. They were moving towards Seelampur T-point where barricades were placed, an officer said, adding that several announcements were made requesting them to disperse. "When they started dispersing, suddenly stones were hurled. We made several requests to them not to pelt stones, but they did not relent, forcing us to use tear gas to disperse them," he said.

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New Delhi:

A section of the students of the Madras University continued their protest for the second day on Tuesday against the amendment to the Citizenship Act, as police entered the campus. Defiant students said they will continue their agitation "through the night." While police personnel who entered the campus said they were for the "safety of the students," the protesters alleged two of the students were picked up by police.

Police sources said two students have been called for questioning over allegedly inciting students of affiliated colleges to join the stir at the varsity's Marina campus.

The varsity, according to the about 50 protesting students, has declared holiday till January 2. "Today they declared holiday till December 23, the university is anyway scheduled to close for Christmas holidays from December 24 till January 2... ...declaring holiday now till December 23 is only to stifle our protest," one of the coordinators and a PG political science student, K Ragu Prasath told PTI.

The coordinator claimed that the two students are "under the custody of police." A senior police official told reporters on the campus that they had no intention of forcibly evicting the students from the campus. "We arrived here following a representation from the varsity authorities and for the safety of students," he said.

Asked if two students have been detained, the official said "when somebody is called in for inquiry, you cannot call it arrest or detention." Students, who sat near the main entrance of the sprawling campus, which is just opposite the famous Marina beach, raised slogans against the Centre, the BJP, the RSS and its student body, the ABVP.

"Inquilab zindabad and students unity zindabad," were among the slogans raised. Seeking withdrawal of the amendment, they dubbed the legislation as the "handiwork of the fascist BJP government." As time rolled by, police reduced the strength of its personnel inside the campus and moved out police vans.

After waiting in vain till 9 pm for the students to disperse, top varsity officials left for the day and police closed the gates of the university. Madras University is one of the oldest in the country and students of the varsity are among others in Tamil Nadu who have been protesting against the CAA.
New Delhi:

The amended Citizenship Act does not affect any Indian citizen, including Muslims, and they enjoy fundamental rights conferred on them by the Constitution, the Home Ministry said on Tuesday, seeking to counter a "misinformation campaign" on the issue. It also said the Act does not have anything to do with the deportation of any foreigner in India.

"There has been a misinformation campaign. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act or CAA does not affect any Indian citizen, including Muslim citizens," it said in response to a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the controversial legislation that has led to violent protests in some parts of the country, including the national capital.

The set of answers to the FAQs was released by the ministry.

The new law is relevant only for Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi and Christian foreigners who have migrated from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan to India up to December 31, 2014, on account of persecution faced by them due to their religion, the home ministry said.

"It does not apply to any other foreigners, including Muslims, migrating to India from any country, including these three countries," it said and clarified that the CAA does not have anything to do with the deportation of any foreigner in India.

The ministry said that the deportation process of any foreigner irrespective of religion or country is implemented as per the mandate of the Foreigners Act, 1946 and/or the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920.

"These two laws govern entry, stay, movement within India and exit from India of all foreigners irrespective of their religion or country.Therefore, the usual deportation process would apply to any illegal foreigner staying in India," it said, in response to the question whether or not Muslim immigrants from these three countries will be deported under the CAA.

The ministry said deportation of any foreigner is a well-considered judicial process which is based on a proper enquiry by the local police or administrative authorities to detect such illegal foreigners.

"It is ensured that such an illegal foreigner has been issued proper travel document by the embassy of his country so that he can be duly received by officials of his country when he is deported," it said.

In Assam, the process of deportation happens only after determination of such a person as a "foreigner" under the Foreigners Act, 1946, the ministry said.

"Then he becomes liable for deportation. Therefore, there is nothing automatic, mechanical or discriminatory in this exercise. State governments and their district level authorities enjoy the power of the central government under section 3 of the Foreigners Act and section 5 of the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, to detect, detain and deport any illegal foreigner," it said.

To a question that Muslims from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan can never get Indian citizenship, the ministry said "No".

"The present legal process of acquiring Indian citizenship by any foreigner of any category through naturalization (Section 6 of the Citizenship Act) or through registration (Section 5 of the Act) stays operational. The CAA does not amend or alter it in any manner whatsoever," it said.

The Home Ministry said that hundreds of muslims migrating from these three countries have been granted Indian citizenship during the last few years.

"If found eligible, all such future migrants shall also get Indian citizenship irrespective of their numbers or religion," it said.

In 2014, after the settlement of Indo-Bangladesh boundary issues, 14,864 Bangladeshi citizens were given Indian citizenship when their enclaves were incorporated into the territory of India. Thousands of these foreigners were muslims, the ministry said.

It clarified that Hindus facing persecution on grounds of religion in any other country -- other than Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan -- cannot apply under CAA.

"They will have to apply through the usual process to get Indian citizenship just like any other foreigner for either registration or naturalisation as a citizen of India. They would get no preference under The Citizenship Act, 1955 even after the CAA," the MHA said.

It said the CAA does not apply to any Indian citizen at all.

"All Indian citizens enjoy the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India. CAA is not meant to deprive any Indian citizen of his citizenship. Rather it is a special law to enable certain foreigners facing a particular situation in three neighbouring countries to get Indian citizenship," the ministry said.

It said the CAA has nothing to do with NRC.

"The legal provisions regarding NRC have been part of The Citizenship Act, 1955 since December, 2004. Also, there are specific statutory rules of 2003 to operationalise these legal provisions. They govern the process of registration of Indian citizens and issuance of national identity cards to them.

"These legal provisions have been on the statute books since last 15-16 years. The CAA has not altered them in any way whatsoever," the ministry said.

The home ministry said that appropriate rules under the CAA are being framed. "They will operationalise various provisions of the CAA," it added.

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New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday that Pak intelligence agencies had intercepted communications between the terrorists who carried out attacks in Balochistan a day earlier and their handlers are in Afghanistan and India, Dawn reported.

The ISPR said terrorists had attempted to attack security forces' camps in Balochistan's Panjgur and Naushki in two separate attacks late on Wednesday evening. The attacks had been "successfully repulsed" while dealing heavy damage to the terrorists, although one soldier was martyred in the Panjgur incident, the military's media wing had reported.

In an update issued on Thursday, the ISPR said that security forces had killed 13 terrorists in the province's Panjgur and Naushki areas.

"After successfully repulsing terrorist attacks at Panjgur and Naushki yesterday night, security forces carried out clearance operation to hunt down terrorists hiding in the area," the statement said.

In Naushki, security forces encountered and killed five more terrorists, bringing the number of total killings to nine. Four soldiers, including an officer, embraced martyrdom while repulsing the attack.

Meanwhile, in Panjgur, four terrorists were killed while at least four to five were "encircled by security forces", the statement said. The ISPR said the operation in Panjgur to eliminate fleeing terrorists "is continuing".

"As per initial investigation, intelligence agencies have intercepted communications between terrorists and their handlers in Afghanistan and India," the statement concluded, the report said.

Separately, Balochistan Home Minister Mir Zia Langove said several threats had been issued this month.

"We had threats from Daesh and so-called nationalists," he said while addressing a press conference in Quetta, adding that several groups were claiming responsibility for the attacks. "We have called a meeting of all departments, including intelligence agencies, after which things will become clearer." The minister said "some people" brainwash the country's youth and take them towards the path of terrorism.

"They are our youth. They carried out terrorism in Pakistan from Afghanistan. Now, they are coming back to their country and spreading terrorism," he said, adding that the responsibility of such attacks lies with terrorist organisations and their supporters, the report said.
Burma Civilian Houses Torched by Myanmar Junta After Resistance Attacks on Military Ships

Caption for Feature- Hmawet Ton in Pale Township, Sagaing Region, on Monday after around 240 houses in the village were torched by regime forces. / CJ

The homes of around 4,000 villagers from six Sagaing Region townships were burned down across at least 14 villages in late January, according to residents.

During operations against peoples defense forces (PDF), Myanmars regime troops have torched houses in Tabayin, Pale, Mingin, Kani, Shwebo and Khin-U townships between Jan. 22 and 31.

On Monday evening, over 100 regime troops burned down almost all the 250 houses in Hmawet Ton village in Pale Township after occupying the village without being attacked, villagers told The Irrawaddy.

My house was burned down. Pigs and cows died in the fire. I have nothing left. I fled with only the clothes I was wearing, the villager said.

Residents and PDFs said the junta troops accused the villagers of helping the resistance forces despite no PDF attacks taking place in the area.

Around 1,000 villagers fled their homes.

Food, harvested crops, seeds and farming machinery were also destroyed, according to the villagers.

We dont know how to make a living now, said another villager who lost his house.

On Monday regime troops burned about a quarter of adjacent Pann villages 800 houses. More than 1,000 villagers fled their homes.

Residents have abandoned three other villages in the area.

On Sunday, regime soldiers and allied militias burned houses in Inmahtee in Pale Township while they were trapped in the village by a resistance attack, according to Pale PDF.

After torching houses, troops called in airstrikes against resistance fighters, said Pale PDF.

The Irrawaddy could not independently verify any of the reports.

On Monday, after sustaining heavy losses during clashes with Kani PDF, around 200 members of Phyu Saw Htee, a militia trained and armed by the military, and junta troops supporting a military flotilla of eight vessels burned houses in four villages in Mingin Township.

During the raids, regime forces torched more than 150 houses out of 200 in Binkyun village and burned around 34 houses in three nearby villages, according to Mingin PDF.

Around 36 Binkyun villagers, including several older residents and children, were taken away by regime forces. The flotilla is currently being attacked by Mingin PDF.

Since Jan. 22, Kani resistance forces have repeatedly attacked the flotilla, which is reportedly transporting food, ammunition and firearms north along the Chindwin River. It departed Monywa on Jan 22.

After being ambushed by Kani PDF, troops torched 31 houses in Natgyi village on the banks of the Chindwin on Jan. 23.

Troops burned 11 houses and killed a villager who suffered from a mental illness in Motehtaw village on Jan. 22 after the flotilla was ambushed by PDFs.

On Monday, troops burned houses in two villages in western Tabayin Township during unprovoked raids, according to Bo Zaya Squad, a Tabayin resistance group.

On Jan. 24 and 25, the regime forces also burned down Ywarzoe and Pauk Chaung villages in the west of Shwebo Township after being ambushed by combined resistance forces.

Due to the junta raids, around 15,000 residents from over 10 villages have fled into forests or to nearby villages, Shwebo or other urban areas, residents said.

On Jan. 26, the regime forces torched houses and killed four villagers during a raid on Shwe Yamin village in Khin-U Township, according to the Khin-U Real News webpage.

A civilian resistance fighter recently told The Irrawaddy:

The more civilian houses they destroy, the more people revolt. People who have lost everything have joined the resistance.

The junta is facing attacks from PDFs and many ethnic armed groups across the country, except in Rakhine State, which is largely under the control of the Arakan Army.

The regimes atrocities continue with torture, arbitrary killings, burning alive, massacres, using civilian detainees as human shields, shelling residential areas and looting and burning houses, especially in Magwe and Sagaing regions and Chin, Kachin, Shan, Kayah and Karen states.



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Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. In addition to our traditional advice, every Thursday we feature an assortment of teachers from across the country answering your education questions. Have a question for our teachers? Email askateacher@slate.com or post it in the Slate Parenting Facebook group.

I teach first grade, and Im also a parent. Im wondering what advice you would give to parents about when to talk to a teacher about interpersonal classroom issues, versus when parents should contact other parents about issues between kids. A lot of my students were virtual for much of last year, and their social skills arent as far along as they usually would be, so I understand that parents are dealing with a lot. But more parents than usual are reaching out to my colleagues and me to solve social issues between kids, when these social issues dont disrupt the classroom, and really arent for me to mediate. Do you have any recommendations?

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Their Problem or Mine?

Dear TPoM,

Social issues that dont disrupt the classroom may still be impacting children in profound ways, and as educators, its our job to ensure that students feel safe and supported at school. The pandemic has placed enormous pressure on kids. Anxiety, fear, and dysregulation are on the rise, and yes, social skills acquisition has been delayed for many children.

This only makes dealing with these problems even more important.

As teachers, we must not only teach academics, but we must also instruct children on how to get along well with others and manage the multitude of emotions that result from social interactions.

My suggestion is to mediate when necessary, because every child should feel happy and safe when coming to school, but also educate students on managing these situations independently. There are many programs and a great deal of curriculum available to assist in this teaching, and if your district has not provided you with SEL resources, I would lobby hard on their behalf.

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Until then, use common sense. Pay attention to the types of problems that your students are experiencing and talk about these kinds of problems with your class. Equip your students with strategies for managing conflict. Role model likely scenarios. Ask your school librarian for books that address these issues, and speak to your school psychologist or social worker for support in designing instruction to meet the needs of your students.

Students often suffer in silence. They may not be creating havoc during your math class, but they may be suffering from great turmoil on the inside. Simply because their suffering is not impacting the school day does not make it any less critical to address.

Best of luck.

Mr. Dicks (fifth grade teacher, Connecticut)

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I have a bit of a dilemma. I have two children, a 15-year-old son (Miles) and a 13-year old-kid (nonbinary) (Ray). My question is about Ray. Ray just turned 13 last month and is normally a very active member of their school community. Last year, Ray and Miles attended a boarding school a few hours away from home. They loved it, and the school had incredibly good Covid-19 protocols.

Ray has moderate to severe asthma. It is well managed and not a huge problem in day-to-day life, but definitely affects them and does also put them at slightly higher risk for Covid-19 complications, even if its omicron. Currently, I dont want to send them back to school, in spite of the schools Covid protocols.

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Since school went back after break, Ray has been doing online schooling, which the school offers in necessary cases. And they are struggling. They are neurodivergent and have trouble focusing for extended periods of time. The online schooling is currently hybrid, which often results in a Zoom lesson for the first 10-20 minutes of class and then worksheets to do at home, in which case the teachers turn off the zoom and focuses on their in-person class.

Ray either takes an hour to do a 10-minute task or gets so engrossed that they dont notice when they need to stop. In short, its not working. I am hesitant to send Ray back to school because of the risk for them. I am confident that Ray will follow all necessary health precautions (N95 mask, etc.), but I dont know whether it is worth sending them back (so that they can learn well) despite the risk. The school is currently fine with them returning whenever they feel comfortable, and we do too (whether in a week or a month, etc). I would really appreciate some advice.

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Worried About the Risk

Dear Worried About the Risk,

If it were me, Id get Ray a COVID booster and send them back to school with plenty of N95 masks. I know that its hard right now, but I do think school is the best place for most kids to be. Students learn better in the classroom with their peers than over Zoom by themselves. In my view, attending school fully vaccinated with high quality masks is relatively safe and responsible. I promise that you are not a bad parent if you let them return.

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However, Im obviously not a doctor and I am not able to calculate the risk or predict what would happen if Ray caught the virus. If you decide its not worth it, then just accept that their learning will suffer for the time being and know that they will need assistance getting caught up when they do return to regular school. You can afford boarding school, so I assume you can get them a private tutor next summer.

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How does Ray feel? At 13, they are old enough to contribute meaningfully to the conversation. I wouldnt ask them if your mind is made up, but if you are still struggling after reading this, listen to what they want to do.

Good luck Worried, I know its not easy.

Ms. Holbrook (high school teacher, Texas)

My daughter is in third grade at a school that is the product of a merger of a high performing school and a low performing school. The last two years have obviously been challenging for everyone, but for some more than others. There are children in her class that can barely read (and some who cant read at all). There are children in her class that lash out at others, behave inappropriately, and generally make it obvious that they are struggling in school both academically and socially. The class is small (15 kids) and the teacher is experienced and competent. And yet, the year is half over and these children clearly need help. What can I do to facilitate this? I have reached out to the principal, and he says he will look into it. Are there other resources I could try to tap into? How can I these get these children the support they need? What support is even available to them?

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There Must Be a Way to Help

Dear There Must Be a Way,

First, thank you. Your response to this situation is both noble and appreciated. Teachers are struggling in more ways than you could imagine given the state of the pandemic. Add a merger like this, and I would imagine that the teachers in your daughters school are working to the bone to help their students.

If your school allows for volunteers, and if your daughters teacher is amenable, that would be enormously helpful. One of my students parents is coordinating classroom volunteers for me this year, and every time I have another pair of adult hands in the classroom, learning improves dramatically. You could begin volunteering yourself if thats possible, and you could reach out the other parents to see if they might be interested, too. Work schedules make this impossible for many parents, but every little bit helps.

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You might also look into ways to ensure that all students have access to the internet at home. The digital divide can really cause enormous problems for kids starting in third grade, and teachers have little control over it, so if there are students without access to online resources at home, maybe look for ways to fund that need? Talk to your schools PTA. Grants and fundraisers could probably help a great deal, too.

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Lastly, ask the teacher directly what you can do to help. Simple tasks like organizing weekend reading material for students, mentoring a student online for an hour on a weekend, or preparing materials for lessons can free a teacher up to plan lessons, design individualized instruction, and work directly with students.

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Knowing the state that teachers are in these days, Ill also add that a note of appreciation would surely be welcomed. My wife and I make it a point of thanking our childrens teachers whenever possible, going so far as to writing to their administrators to praise their skill and expertise. Boosting the spirits of a struggling teacherand most are struggling these dayscan mean a lot.

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Mr. Dicks (fifth grade teacher, Connecticut)

My daughter turned six in June. She attended a great preschool/pre-k program from 3-4, and in March of 2020 her teacher felt she was more than readysocially and academicallyto start kindergarten in the fall of 2020, in spite of being on the younger side.

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Then, of course, the pandemic happened. After a false start with the districts online program, we elected to homeschool her for the past year. Were now faced with deciding whether to start her with kindergarten or first grade in the public elementary school in the fall.

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Academically, she is meeting (and in many cases, far excelling) the state standards to enter first grade. Her handwriting and fine motor control are decent, she can count to 100, and shes starting to learn how to read. However, I find myself concerned about whether she will be able to adapt to the stricter classroom environment, not to mention whether shell be able to adapt socially after being stuck home with her dad for over a year. I think he and I have done a great job helping her grow academically and emotionally, but were just two people! To add to it, I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, and I recognize that she has quite a few of my childhood and adult behaviors. Plunging her into a more structured environment seems like it could be helpfulor it could be a disaster. On the other hand, Im worried shell be terribly bored in kindergarten, and that shell feel like shes behind her friends who are entering first grade in the fall.

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I recognize that in terms of social skills, a lot of her peers will likely be in the same boat, but I find myself stymied and need to make a decision in time for school registration next month. Ive asked to chat with folks at the school, but Ive had trouble setting something up. My gut says to start with first grade and shell figure it out, but I keep second-guessing myself.

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What would you recommend?

Stymied

Dear Stymied,

Keep pushing the folks at school to talk to you. Theyre the ones that will be able to answer this question best. But looking from the outside, here are my thoughts.

Any teacher worth her salt will differentiate based on student needs. That includes curriculum, social-emotional support, and classroom expectations. There are going to be kids in your daughters class that are more academically advanced and those that are behind. Some will be very mature for their age, some less so. Yes, the kids who have been in the school setting will likely adapt more quickly to the classroom routines, but kids who were homeschooled or remote-schooled, or who are just forgetful, may need extra modeling of the expectations.

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Your daughter will experience challenges in either situation, and shell be fine either way. So, foremost, let yourself off the hook a little bit. If it were my kid, Id put her in first, but do what your gut says.

 Ms. Scott (high school teacher, North Carolina)

More Advice From Slate

My 14-year-old daughter dresses like shes going to a nightclubhalter tops, tube tops, short shorts, high heels, bare midriffs. I want to encourage her sense of style and help her to be positive about her body, but this is not OK, and we cant stop fighting about it. What should I do?
CEDAR FALLS  Musician Steven Turner was a big reason Stebs Amusement in the College Hill district became a legendary bar and venue enjoyed by community regulars and the performers who took the stage there.

It was Turners personality and his songs, often on a Tuesday night with his acoustic guitar, that people will remember. But also it was his artwork, which took over almost every square inch of the iconic establishment.

Its been more than 20 years since Turner and other musicians performed at Stebs on College Street. The establishment opened in 1976 and shuttered in 2000. The building was eventually torn down. Today, Sidecar Coffee stands in that spot.

But two local musical archivists and protectors, Ralph Bryant and Dave Deibler, as well as many other fans who still live in the area, have put forth an effort to ensure their friend, as well as the music and art scene created at Stebs, are not forgotten.

The live music scene, its old now, said Deibler, the owner of the bar Octopus College Hill, which has a musical identity of its own and in a way, is an extension of Stebs. If we dont protect it, then it dies. We need to keep talking about Stebs and Steve. Its very near to disappearing.

The hope is conversations about what transpired during that era continue to take place among those who were there, but also those who never experienced it.

Its where people connected, said Deibler. And they discovered more out about themselves.

They hung up Turners eight murals inside Sidecar on Dec. 17, and plan to leave them there throughout February before taking them down and storing them elsewhere.

Its like they came back home, said Bryant.

The artwork was composed on lauan plywood. Each panel is about four-by-eight feet.

A professional photographer has captured digital photos in case there comes a time when the physical copies are lost.

In addition, the music enthusiasts are raising funds for two benches and a plaque, acting as a memorial in honor of Turner and Stebs. Theyll be placed near Sidecar Coffee.

Right now, the fundraising goal is $5,000. Thanks to many small donors, theyve already raised $3,000. A GoFundMe page been set up at www.gofundme.com/f/steve-turner-memorial-bench-plaque

Turners artwork had been in the possession of Tony Tomlyanovich, owner of Tonys La Pizzeria, for many years after he purchased the old Stebs site, along with the murals that were in the very fabric of the building.

Tomlyanovich was recently ridding himself of the storage space when he made it known he had the buried treasure, Turners art. The discovery lent the opportunity to reflect on Stebs meaning to the community, but also their human, artist and their friend, Deibler said.

Stebs had live music five to six times per week. The genres were described by the pair as an eclectic mix. The lineup included punk rock, blues, indy rock, reggae and jam band.

Bryant said it was an amazing community of people at Stebs and a place where you never felt unsafe.

You would meet people randomly, but you know it was like a family, a dysfunctional one, like every good family should be, said Deibler. Stebs was a home for any weirdo. You could be yourself, and no one tried to calm you down. If you wanted to express yourself, you could.

Asked about Turners genre, that may have been the toughest question for them to answer. They settled, generally and as simply put as possible, on folk music, but it was challenging to answer because he was truly an original.

While he didnt have one hit that put him on the map, he had some well-known songs some may remember. The pair pointed out Elvis in Paraguay and Homemade Zodiac, which also were performed by The Blue Band and the House of Large Sizes, respectively.

Bryant said Turner was ahead of his time when it came to some of the messaging from his music, as well as wise when youd talk to him before or after a show.

Bryant also described him as mysterious, which was reflected in his physical artwork.

The murals are psychedelic and have religious as well as cultural undertones, they said. In addition, some work included references to local and international musicians, one being Deibler himself.

You can go to places like Iowa City, but the Cedar Valley has a different history of live and original music, Deibler said. And what were trying to do is what we believe is the best way to ensure people knew it existed.

The conversation also continues in a digital space on Facebook at www.facebook.com/stebscedarfalls/.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Delhi BJP president Adesh Gupta on Thursday said that more than 300 liquor shops are operating in the close vicinity of schools, religious places and residential areas, giving an ultimatum to the AAP-led Delhi government to take action against the these stores in 48 hours.

"There are still many such liquor shops which are in residential areas, near schools and religious places and if they are not closed within 48 hours the party workers along with corporation employees and officials and I personally would go to seal them," he said in a virtual press conference.

Since the introduction of the new excise policy, the BJP has been protesting against the Kejriwal-led Delhi government. Under this policy, nearly 850 liquor shops were supposed to open across the city as the state government exited the liquor business. The opposition party has cited the opening of new liquor shops in close vicinity of residential areas, religious sites and educational institutes as the main reason behind its objection.

A month ago, the saffron party had also staged a protest against the new policy by obstructing traffic at 15 spots across the city.

Gupta said that BJP has been relentlessly protesting against new excise policy through chakka jam, signature campaign or protest demonstrations and now we have become Delhiites voice to protest against this policy strongly, adding, "The fact is Kejriwal is adamant to go through this policy for his own selfish interest." "This is the reason that earlier there used to be 21 dry days on festivals and national festivals but now liquor can be served even on Guru Govind Singh's jayanti, Deepawali or Mahavir Jayanti and Holi and 18 such festivals. So it means there will only be three dry days now because there will be money exchanged between liquor mafia and Kejriwal and his party," he alleged.

Over 70 per cent of areas of city will now have liquor shops in violation of master plan or the municipal laws, Gupta claimed, adding that earlier for opening a liquor shop, the local RWAs and women would be consulted but the same was not done when these 850 such shops are being opened and many have already come up.

He said daily average sale of liquor in Delhi is about Rs 50 crore and annual is Rs 20,000 crore. So by adding 18 more days the Kejriwal government is straightaway helping liquor mafia and will also be taking its own share of profit from them.

Delhi's Finance Minister Manish Sisodia while introducing the excise policy had made the same allegations against the saffron party, claiming that the policy would put a complete ban on the modus-operandi of liquor mafias operating in the union territory while revolutionising Delhiites' liquor buying experience by giving the liquor vends a new shape.
This Bugatti Chiron is definitely part of the latter category, unless theres an eccentric deep-pocketed enthusiast out there that is a Mad Max diehard fan , as it would pretty much require modifying the hell out of the Molsheim hypercar to the point where it looks like one of the vehicles that have starred in the popular movie franchise.First and foremost, the French model has more inches under its belly than the real one. It has plastic (or would that be metal?) cladding around the wheel arches, a huge bulbar, protection for the front hood and windscreen, and several spikes on the roof, as imagined by demetr0s_designs.Toward the rear, we can see something that Dominic Toretto would definitely approve of, and further down, this Chiron has tall side pipes. The apocalyptic theme is completed by the off-road tires, wrapped around the small wheels, and rusty overall appearance of the body.We would have topped it off with additional lights, and an exoskeleton, and even though it will live its life in a very dry environment, a snorkel would be more than welcomed. After all, no Mad Max fan would want to become addicted to water, as it will take hold of you, and you will resent its absence, as Immortan Joe famously said in Mad Max: Fury Road.Back in the real world, Bugatti has managed to sell the final 40 or so build slots of the hypercar. The announcement was made last month , when the automaker looked back at a successful 2021 in terms of sales, confirming at the same time that they plan to deliver at least 80 units this year, comprising the Chiron Super Sport and Centodieci.
1. Yes. The current shelter is too small to serve the growing city; build a larger one soon.

2. Yes. The high number of animals being euthanized at the shelter makes this urgent.

3. No. The city has far more important things to spend millions of dollars on.

4. No. Having a larger shelter might be nice, but it is by no means a city priority.

5. Unsure. It would depend on whether the current surge in shelter animals continues.

Vote

View Results
While scientists have said that omicron is causing less severe symptoms than the other variants, its ongoing surge has been driving Guam's worrisome dead-on-arrival toll higher than during the delta surge.

In the last three weeks of January alone, 13 or nearly 63% of 21 COVID-19-related fatalities were dead-on-arrival cases.

Officials shared the data Wednesday morning. Hours later, two more deaths were announced.

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The six-month delta surge last year caused 127 COVID-19-related fatalities, of which 49 or nearly 39%, were dead-on-arrival cases.

Health officials on Wednesday presented the results of the joint investigation by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services on the dead-on-arrival cases during the delta surge, as well as the ongoing omicron-linked surge.

Guam continues to see high dead-on-arrival cases, officials said, because the same factors are at play: from not getting vaccinated to having diabetes, hypertension and other chronic diseases, being elderly, and not having medical insurance or good access to health care.

Addressing these chronic health conditions and lack of access to medical care "are all very important for not only COVID-19 but for health and longevity in general," visiting CDC epidemiologist Scott Laney said at the COVID-19 briefing.

2 new deaths

The number of January deaths went up by Wednesday night, when DPHSS reported two additional COVID-19 related deaths:

The 295th COVID-19-related fatality occurred at the Guam Regional Medical City on Jan. 31. The patient was a 73-year-old female, unvaccinated, with underlying health conditions who tested positive on Jan. 28.

The 296th COVID-19-related fatality was pronounced dead on arrival at the Guam Memorial Hospital on Feb. 1. The patient was a 69-year-old male, unvaccinated, with underlying health conditions who tested positive on Feb. 1.

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients jumped to 47, with six in the intensive care units, according to Wednesday's report. Tuesday's JIC reported 39 patients total.

According to the JIC, on Wednesday, local hospitals had:

 GMH: 24 with two in the ICU and one on a ventilator

 GRMC: 21 with three in the ICU; none require a ventilator

 Naval Hospital: Two patients.

On Wednesday night, DPHSS reported 770 new COVID-19 cases from 2,145 tests analyzed on Feb. 1. Of those, 80 cases were reported by the Department of Defense.

Getting help early

With a repeat of the high dead-on-arrival cases and rising COVID-19-related deaths, DPHSS interim chief medical officer Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero and other health experts called on residents to get medical help if they feel symptoms.

This is particularly for those in their 60s, with chronic illness such as diabetes and hypertension, regardless of whether they can pay for treatment or not, he said.

Leon Guerrero and others acknowledged that many in the community are not going to hospitals because of the anticipated medical bill, which could be a factor in the high dead-on-arrival cases on Guam.

"How expensive is life?" Leon Guerrero asked. "So I strongly recommend that regardless of whether you have the ability to pay, seek treatment. Some of the treatment is free."

COVID-19 treatments, he said, are free, including monoclonal antibodies and antiviral pills.

CDC-DPHSS findings

DPHSS sought the CDC's help in investigating the dead-on-arrival cases last year.

From July 8 to Dec. 31, 2021, or the delta surge, Guam recorded 127 COVID-19 related deaths. Of that number, 49 were dead-on-arrival cases.

Laney presented the highlights of the CDC-DPHSS investigations of the 2021 dead-on-arrival cases:

80% were unvaccinated

63% were 60 years old and older

63% were male

Laney said health and other disparities were observed among DOA cases:

Diabetes, chronic renal disease, cardiovascular disease rates elevated compared to background population.

67% had a household income of less than $35,000 a year

24% did not have health insurance.

These conditions on Guam were already there prior to the pandemic but they're exacerbated by it, Laney said.

About 94% of Guam's vaccine-eligible population or those at least 5 years old are fully vaccinated, DPHSS said, and this is among the highest in the United States. CDC's Laney said this is "impressive."

"And I think it also highlights the difficulty in pushing the last 5%-10% but thats an effort worth doing so I would encourage continued efforts to increase vaccination but I think theres a lot to be proud of in Guam with the rates of vaccination that have occurred," Laney said.

About a week ago, Guam started rationing COVID-19 tests to those with symptoms or high-risk close contacts, as well as the unvaccinated with symptoms because of limited supply.

Get vaccinated

Dr. Annette David, lead epidemiologist for Guam's State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup, and DPHSS' Leon Guerrero said full vaccination and booster shots as well as masking, social distancing and proper washing of hands continue to help reduce the risk of infection, severe illness or death.

The risk of death is substantially higher among the unvaccinated compared to those who are unvaccinated, they said.

Not one of the interventions is 100% effective in preventing infection, severe illness or death, but a combination of them increases that protection, David said.

DPHSS spokesperson Janela Carrera said hospitals' social workers can also refer patients to Medicaid and other welfare services to ease their burden.

Machine to ID variants

Ann Pobutsky, territorial epidemiologist for DPHSS, said the genome sequencing machine, which can identify the variants of COVID-19 present on Guam, is now on the island but it's not operational yet.

So Guam continues to send samples to the Hawaii State Laboratory and the CDC.

The latest batch of specimens that came back from Hawaii were identified as the omicron variant of concern.
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'Israeli president Herzog in Turkey mid-March', Erdogan Before visit, preliminary meetings between officials

(ANSAmed) - ISTANBUL, FEBRUARY 3 - "The visit of Israeli president (Isaac Herzog in Turkey) is scheduled around mid-March", Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told journalists at the airport of Esenboga in Ankara before departing for Ukraine. "Before Herzog's arrival, preliminary meetings will be necessary", said the Turkish leader, revealing that Turkish and Israeli officials will visit the two countries soon.



Erdogan over the past few weeks had announced that Herzog was planning to travel to Ankara in "a visit that could open a new chapter in relations between Turkey and Israel". The announcement also sparked some protests against 'normalization'.



Diplomatic relations between the two countries have been complicated since an Israeli raid in 2010, when 10 Turkish citizens were killed, against the ship Mavi Marmara that left Turkey for Gaza to bring humanitarian aid. In 2013, Israel offered compensation to the families of victims and gradually relations between the two countries improved until the appointment of new ambassadors in 2016. Only two years later, due to tension in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Turkey strongly criticized Israel, recalling its ambassador; also, the Israeli mission chief in Ankara was withdrawn.



After the election of the new Israeli Premier Naftali Bennett and new President Herzog, Erdogan became more open towards Israel following tensions that had accompanied his relations with former Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu. (ANSAmed)
A federal judge has refused to dismiss Kenneth Walker's civil lawsuit against the four ex-Louisville Metro Police Officers involved in serving a search warrant that led to the killing of Breonna Taylor.

Walker, Taylor's boyfriend who fired a single shot that hit then-LMPD Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly during the March 2020 raid, is seeking punitive and compensatory damages.

U.S. District Court Judge David J. Hale denied motions to dismiss Joshua Jaynes, Brett Hankinson, Myles Cosgrove and Mattingly, all of whom are being sued in their individual capacities since they're no longer employed by LMPD.

Walker's claims assert his rights were violated when officers obtained and approved the "materially false" search warrant; failed to announce before they entered Taylor's apartment; and used excessive and unreasonable force. The fourth claim is that LMPD's policies, customs and practices led to these violations.

The judge also ruled that Maj. Kimberly Burbrink, Lt. Jerry Huckleberry, Sgt. Luke Phan  all of whom had supervisory roles in the incident  would be removed as defendants from the lawsuit.

Louisville Metro Government's request to dismiss the fourth claim  that its policies and practices led to Walker's deprivation of rights  was denied.

Detective Kelly Goodlett, one of the officers to ask the Shively Police Department whether packages for Jarmacus Glover  the subject of the investigation  were being delivered to Taylor's apartment, is still being sued for her involvement in the production of the search warrant, but has been taken off the other three claims.

Hale in his decision said Walker put forth "sufficient factual allegations" that Goodlett knew Jaynes's affidavit was false and "at a minimum" knowingly acquiesced in its submission.

Lt. Shawn Hoover, Detective Tony James, Detective Michael Nobles and Officer Michael Campbell, all of whom helped serve the search warrant the night Taylor was killed, are being sued for failure to announce and for using excessive force during the raid, despite a request for dismissal.

Story continues

All discovery in the case is on hold temporarily pending a hearing at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 14 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lanny Kind.

Kala Kachmar is an investigative reporter. Reach her at 502-582-4469; kkachmar@courierjournal.com or @NewsQuip on Twitter. Support strong local journalism by subscribing today: www.courier-journal.com/subscribe.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Breonna Taylor's boyfriend's civil lawsuit allowed to move forward
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

People are more comfortable talking to female rather than male robots working in service roles in hotels, according to a study by Washington State University researcher Soobin Seo.

The study, which surveyed about 170 people on hypothetical service robot scenarios, also found that the preference was stronger when the robots were described as having more human features. The findings are detailed in a paper published online in the International Journal of Hospitality Management.

"People have a tendency to feel more comfort in being cared for by females because of existing gender stereotyping about service roles," said Seo, an assistant professor of hospitality management at WSU's Carson Business College in Everett. "That gender stereotype appears to transfer to robot interactions, and it is more amplified when the robots are more human like."

Even before the pandemic, the hotel industry struggled with high turnover of employees, and Seo noted that some hotels have turned to robots and automation for a variety of functions from dishwashing and room cleaning to customer service such as greeting guests and delivering luggage.

Examples range from the female humanized robots named "Pepper" at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Las Vegas to the fully automated FlyZoo hotel chain in China where guests interact only with robots and artificial intelligence (AI) features.

For the study, survey participants were presented with one of four scenarios about interacting with an AI service robot at a hotel. In one scenario, they were greeted by a male service robot named "Alex" who was described as having a face and human-like body. A second scenario was worded exactly the same with just two changes: the robot's gender was female, and its name was "Sara." In two other scenarios, the robots were both gendered and named differently but described as "machine-like' with an interactive screen instead of a face.

The respondents were then asked to rank how they felt about the interactions. The participants who were presented with the female robot scenarios rated the experience as more pleasant and satisfying than those who had scenarios with male robots. The preference for the female robot was more pronounced when the robots were described as looking more human.

Seo cautioned that replacing human hospitality workers with AI robots of any gender raises many issues that need further research. For instance, if a robot breaks down or fails in service in some way, such as losing luggage or getting a reservation wrong, customers may want a human employee to help them.

The WSU business researcher is also in the process of investigating how the personality of AI robots may impact customers' perceptions, such as if they are extroverted and talkative or introverted and quiet.

These are important considerations for AI robot developers as well as for hospitality employers to consider as they think about adopting robots more widely, Seo said.

"We may start to see more robots as replacements of human employees in hotels and restaurants in the future, so we may find that some of the psychological relationships that we see in human-to-human interaction also implemented in robot interactions," she said.

Explore further Humans interacting with robot found to mimic and synchronize with its movements

More information: Soobin Seo, When Female (Male) Robot Is Talking To Me: Effect of service robots' gender and anthropomorphism on customer satisfaction, International Journal of Hospitality Management (2022). Soobin Seo, When Female (Male) Robot Is Talking To Me: Effect of service robots' gender and anthropomorphism on customer satisfaction,(2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhm.2022.103166
Sam Faiers has admitted to feeling 'lots of pressure' to marry her long-term partner Paul Knightley.

The former TOWIE star, 31, shares children Rosie, four, and Paul, six, with her beau and is pregnant with their third child.

But the reality star has said she's never been in 'any major rush' to tie the knot but added that when they do it will be nice for their children to be at the wedding.

Expectation: Sam Faiers has admitted to feeling 'lots of pressure' to marry her long-term partner Paul Knightley (pictured last November together)

Speaking on her podcast The Sam and Billie Show with sister Billie, she said: 'I get this question of when will we get married all the time. I just think, number 1 I don't know what the rush is.

'We've had a lot of pressure from people who watch our show and people ask 'why aren't you married yet, when is it going to happen?'

'I know we will get married  but I'm so grateful that we have it all to look forward to and in our relationship, we've done the hardest bit (having kids). It is a big challenge and change for a couple.

Family: The former TOWIE star, 31, shares children Rosie, four, and Paul, six, with her beau and is pregnant with their third child

'I know it's not the right or correct way round but it doesn't matter. But we have done the hardest bit and then hopefully the marriage will be a success and last forever!'

'I've never been in a major rush. Some people want to get married before having children but that was never on our agendas.

'But I am looking forward to having all three of my children at the wedding so I'm grateful that it has happened this way round. The more pressure put on us it pushes Paul away. And did you know that 42 per cent of marriages end in divorce!'

Billie then added: 'It really shouldn't be a pressure or a stigma, you should do it when it suits you.'

Taking her time: The reality star has said she's never been in 'any major rush' to tie the knot but added that when they do it will be nice for their children to be at the wedding

Sam and Paul began dating in 2014 after she split from boyfriend Joey Essex.

On the podcast mother-of-two Billie - who shares children Nelly, seven, and Arthur, five, with husband Greg Shepherd - also opened up about whether she would have another baby.

She admitted: 'I would love another baby and that's the truth...the last few years there has been a lot on with work and have out my career first. But absolutely yes I would like another one.

'With the timing who knows, got to get rid of the coil first. I never like to timestamp that but it would be ideal for me to fall pregnant in the next year or so! But you never know it could take a month to get pregnant or it could take years you never know.

Cute: Sam said on the podcast: 'I am looking forward to having all three of my children at the wedding so I'm grateful that it has happened this way round'

'It will be so nice when the other kids are older and they can be super involved and get to know their baby sibling properly and actually understand what is going on.'

Greg does want another one, but we were in the Maldives recently and there were two of our friends their with six month old babies and Greg said it had made him think twice!'

'He was plucking out all these excuses. I don't want to leave it too long though.'

Last November Sam shared the news that she would be welcoming a 'spring baby' and gushed she felt 'happy and so blessed' to be expecting again.

The star shared a sweet black and white image of Paul and Rosie kissing her growing bump, revealing she planned to keep the gender of her unborn baby 'a surprise.'

A spokesperson for the couple also said: 'Samantha & Paul are overjoyed to be expecting their third child with the baby due in the spring.'

Sam had previously shared her desire to have a third child, admitting in an Instagram Q and A that now was the perfect time to expand her family.

Brood: On the podcast mother-of-two Billie - who shares children Nelly, seven, and Arthur, five, with husband Greg Shepherd - also opened up about whether she would have another baby

A fan asked: 'Do you like the age gap between your kids? And would you want bigger if you had two more?'

Sam responded: 'Personally I found it a little difficult in the early days as I was breastfeeding Rosie whilst Paul was still in nappies and wanting my attention a lot.

'I wouldn't change it for the world. But when we have more I think it would be maybe next year? Who knows.. @PaulKnightley.'
Ronald Sam Rogers

Nearly 30 years ago on April 26, 1992, the body of 26-year-old Ronald Sam Rogers was found next to his red 1985 Chevrolet Camaro at the end of a cul-de-sac at an industrial park in Duncan.

The place was known as a "lover's lane." He died of a single gunshot wound behind his left ear, shot at close range by a small-caliber gun, former Spartanburg County Coroner Jim Burnett told the Greenville News at that time.

To this day, the motive remains a mystery and the murder of Rogers remains among 46 unsolved homicides dating back decades in Spartanburg County that investigators hope to solve with a renewed determination. There is hope now to solve the case because of refined DNA analysis technology that was only in its infancy when the crime occurred, Sheriff's Office Investigator Diane Lestage said Wednesday.

She said some evidence in the Rogers case has been sent to the S.C. State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) for DNA analysis, in hopes of identifying a suspect.

"I do depend a lot on tips from people, especially if they knew or were related to the victim," she said. "(In the Rogers case) I still get tips and references."

'Didn't have an enemy in the world'

In 1992, no one knew who would want to kill a young man with so much promise, who "didn't have an enemy in the world," his father Norman Rogers told a Greenville News reporter after the killing. Norman Rogers, who is now deceased, lived across the street from his son at the time of the crime

Ronald Sam Rogers

Ronald Sam Rogers grew up in Oconee County, his sister Ginger Porter told the Herald-Journal in 2013. His mother, Carole Moss, also told the Herald-Journal that Rogers graduated from Tamassee-Salem High School, then moved to Atlanta and enrolled at DeVry Institute.

Rogers then moved back and was attending classes at Greenville Technical College. He had moved into a mobile home on Cherry Creek Lane in Wellford and held a job at Digital Equipment Corporation in Greenville. He lived less than 2 miles from where his body was found.

Story continues

Reward offered: Spartanburg family offers $10k reward to help solve triple homicide in Clifton community

Moss told the Herald-Journal that investigators found no one who held a "grudge" against her son or had a motive to kill him.

Efforts this past week to reach his sister and mother were unsuccessful.

Body found at 'lover's lane'

Sometime late Friday night, April 24, 1992, Rogers left two steaks thawing in the kitchen sink and two pieces of cake in the refrigerator of his home, the Herald-Journal reported in 2013.

All of his bills were ready to mail and a notebook listed all his expenses. Investigators never found his journal or the backpack that he always carried, the newspaper reported.

His body was discovered early in the morning of April 26, 1992, at the end of the cul-de-sac in the Hillside Park of Commerce, an industrial park on Highway 290 in Duncan.

16-year-old case: Cold case: Mid-December double-homicide near Woodruff remains unsolved 16 years later

Sheriff's investigator Alan Wood told the Herald-Journal in 2013 the cul-de-sac at the time of the crime was known as a lover's lane, where underage kids went to drink and people used drugs.

Rogers was last seen talking with an unidentified man at a Dairy Queen that used to be at Truck Stops of America at Highway 290 and Interstate 85, Wood said in the 2013 Herald-Journal article.

Because a few unidentified items were taken, Wood said robbery could have been a motive. Because he was found nude, there may have been a sexual encounter, Wood said.

2007 murder unsolved: Sheriff's Office: Reward being offered to help solve 2007 murder of Boiling Springs woman

In 1992, Sheriff's Office spokesman Mike Little told the Greenville News that deputies discovered a pair of designer swimming trunks about 17 feet in front of Rogers vehicle.

Except for his socks and shoes, Rogers was unclothed, Little said.

Whoever killed Rogers left forensic evidence that was tested shortly after Rogers' death, the Herald-Journal reported in November 2013.

Investigators chased some 80 leads before the case reached a dead-end, according to a 2013 Herald-Journal article.

Lestage said anyone with information about the cold case can contact her at 864-503-4556, or by email at dlestage@spartanburgcounty.org.

Contact Bob Montgomery at bob.montgomery@shj.com

This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: SLED analyzing DNA in new effort to solve 30-year-old Duncan homicide
Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister Araga Jnanendra on Thursday said children should neither wear hijab nor saffron shawls at schools and he has asked the police to keep watch on religious organisations that are trying to undermine the country's unity in this regard.

Speaking to reporters here, he said no one should come to school for practicing their religion, as it is a place where all students should learn together with a feeling of oneness.

The remarks come amid a row over wearing 'hijab' (headscarf) by some students at a government pre-university college at Udupi. In another incident, Muslim girl students of the Kundapur PU college, who reached the institution today wearing the hijab, were stopped at the gate by the principal. They were informed that they are not allowed to wear the headscarf inside the classrooms and asked to remove it before entering. Yesterday, around 100 Hindu students came to classes wearing saffron shawls as a counter to the girls wearing hijabs.

"Schools are the place where children belonging to all religions should learn together and imbibe a feeling that we are not different, and all are children of Bharat Mata," Jnanendra said in response to a question.

Speaking to reporters here, he said, there are places like Churches, Mosques and temples for people to freely practice their religion and offer prayers, while at schools there should be an academic atmosphere for children to develop a culture of national unity integrity.

Calling on everyone to think in this direction, he said, "There are religious organisations who think otherwise, I have asked police to keep a watch on them. Those who cause hindrance or undermine this country's unity, they have to be dealt with," he said.



Responding to a question about Hindu students wearing saffron shawls as a retaliatory measure for hijab and creating an atmosphere of conflict, Jnanendra said, no one should come to school for practicing their religion.

"Everyone should come there to learn as the children of Bharat Mata. No one should wear either hijab or saffron shawl in the school premises, they should mandatorily follow the rules set by school management committees," he added.

Live TV
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Challenging human intelligence, Alphabet (Google's parent company) subsidiary DeepMind has created an artificial intelligence (AI) system called AlphaCode that "writes computer programmes at a competitive level." This marks the first time an AI code generation system has reached a competitive level of performance in programming competitions.

"AlphaCode achieved an estimated rank within the top 54 per cent of participants in programming competitions by solving new problems that require a combination of critical thinking, logic, algorithms, coding, and natural language understanding," the company said in a statement late on Wednesday.

AlphaCode uses transformer-based language models to generate code at an unprecedented scale, and then smartly filters to a small set of promising programmes.

Creating solutions to unforeseen problems is second nature in human intelligence, a result of critical thinking informed by experience.

The machine learning community has made tremendous progress in generating and understanding textual data, but advances in problem solving remain limited to relatively simple maths and programming problems, or else retrieving and copying existing solutions.

The company validated AlphaCode's performance using competitions hosted on Codeforces, a popular platform which hosts regular competitions that attract tens of thousands of participants from around the world who come to test their coding skills.

"We selected for evaluation 10 recent contests, each newer than our training data. AlphaCode placed at about the level of the median competitor," said DeepMind.

DeepMind was acquired by Google in 2014. The company is based in London, with research centres in Canada, France, and the US.

"Overall, AlphaCode placed at approximately the level of the median competitor. Although far from winning competitions, this result represents a substantial leap in AI problem-solving capabilities and we hope that our results will inspire the competitive programming community," the company noted.

Mike Mirzayanov, Founder of Codeforces, said the results of AlphaCode exceeded his expectations.

"I was skeptical because even in simple competitive problems it is often required not only to implement the algorithm, but also (and this is the most difficult part) to invent it. AlphaCode managed to perform at the level of a promising new competitor. I can't wait to see what lies ahead," he elaborated.

DeepMind said it is releasing the dataset of competitive programming problems and solutions on open-source code repository service GitHub.
Syria: 13 dead in U.S. raid in north, NGO 'Four children, three women among victims'

(ANSAmed) - BEIRUT, FEBRUARY 3 - At least 13 people, including four women and three children, have died following a military raid attributed to the United States in northwestern Syria against alleged jihadist cells, according to a provisional toll provided by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The monitoring group said that special US forces, taken with military helicopters to the area of Atme at the border with Turkey, exchanged fire for about three hours with local militants barricaded with their families. (ANSAmed) (ANSAMed).




Revenue growth of 26% driven by improving North American customer activity

Orders up 31% and Book to Bill of 1.02x, excluding a large, one-time contract

Net Income up 82% due to increased volume and refinancing savings

Raising full-year Fiscal 2022 revenue guidance to $342-$350 million due to backlog strength and incoming order rate trends

AUSTIN, TX / ACCESSWIRE / February 3, 2022 / Thermon Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: THR) ("Thermon"), a global leader in industrial process heating solutions, today announced consolidated financial results for the third quarter ("Q3 2022") of its fiscal year ending March 31, 2022 ("Fiscal 2022"). Key highlights for Q3 2022 as compared to the three months ended December 31, 2020 ("Q3 2021") include:

Revenue of $100.6 million versus $79.6 million in Q3 2021, an increase of $21.0 million, or 26%

Gross margin of 40.5%, as compared to 46.4% in Q3 2021

Net Income of $11.3 million as compared to $6.2 million in Q3 2021

Adjusted EBITDA of $20.6 million versus $18.5 million in Q3 2021, an increase of $2.1 million or 11%

Fully diluted GAAP earnings per share ("EPS") of $0.33 and Non-GAAP Adjusted EPS of $0.37

Bruce Thames, Thermon's President and Chief Executive Officer, said "Our third quarter results reflect strong performance in a challenging and dynamic global environment, including the continuation of broader industry disruptions in global supply chains, rising input costs and the inconsistent availability of labor. This quarter's revenue growth of 26% is the result of increasing customer demand in North America, which also contributed to improving price realization that we expect to continue through the year. The team is accelerating our efforts to diversify the business, and we are seeing positive results. The power, rail & transit and food & beverage end markets are yielding early returns, and our Genesis Network solution continues to gain momentum with key customers. We continue to invest in our long-term strategic initiatives while diligently managing base costs, and we paid down $7 million of debt in the quarter. Given another quarter of resilient execution and positive growth, we are again raising our Fiscal 2022 revenue forecast to $342-$350 million due to the pace of bookings and anticipated customer spending."

Q3 2022 Net Income and EPS were $11.3 million and $0.33, respectively, compared to Net Income and EPS of $6.2 million and $0.18, respectively, for Q3 2021. After taking into account the impact of restructuring, intangible amortization related to prior acquisition activities, the tax expense/(benefit) for impact of foreign rate increases, withholding tax on dividend related to the debt amendment, loss on debt extinguishment, and the benefit from the Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy (the "CEWS") (see table, Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS), Thermon generated Adjusted Net Income in Q3 2022 of $12.4 million and Adjusted EPS of $0.37 as compared to $10.0 million and $0.30, respectively, in Q3 2021.

Adjusted EBITDA was $20.6 million in Q3 2022 as compared to $18.5 million in Q3 2021, an increase of $2.1 million, or 11% (see table, Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA). Cash provided by operating activities was $3.3 million as compared to $2.9 million in Q3 2021.

During the first nine months of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022 ("YTD 2022"), the Company generated revenue of $253.1 million compared to $202.9 million in the first nine months of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021 ("YTD 2021"), an increase of $50.2 million or 25%.

YTD 2022 Net Income and EPS were $11.4 million and $0.34, respectively, compared to $1.9 million and $0.06 in YTD 2021. After taking into account the impact of restructuring, intangible amortization related to prior acquisition activities, the tax expense/(benefit) for impact of foreign rate increases, withholding tax on dividend related to the debt amendment, loss on debt extinguishment, and the benefit from the CEWS (see table, Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS), the Company generated Adjusted Net Income in YTD 2022 of $17.5 million and Adjusted EPS of $0.52 compared to $10.3 million and $0.31, respectively, during YTD 2021. Adjusted EBITDA was $40.1 million in YTD 2022 as compared to $30.4 million in YTD 2021, an increase of $9.7 million, or 32%.

As of December 31, 2021, Thermon had $132.8 million of gross outstanding debt and $32.6 million of cash and cash equivalents, representing net debt of $100.2 million. Our net debt to trailing twelve month Adjusted EBITDA leverage ratio was 2.2x as of December 31, 2021.

Additional Information

Backlog was $145.7 million as of December 31, 2021, representing a $35.6 million increase, or 32%, as compared to Q3 2021 backlog of $110.1 million. YTD 2022 orders were $282.9 million compared to $207.4 million in YTD 2021, an increase of $75.5 million or 36%.

During Q3 2022, new facility construction (or "Greenfield") and facility maintenance, repair and operations and upgrade or expansion (or "MRO/UE") activity from our legacy heat tracing business accounted for 42% and 58% of revenue, respectively, which compares to 38% and 62%, respectively, in Q3 2021.

Outlook

For our Fiscal 2022, we are raising our previous guidance, and now expect revenue will be approximately $342-$350 million, including the impact of the large one-time order. We are targeting a net debt to Adjusted EBITDA leverage ratio of approximately 1.5x by March 31, 2022, excluding the impact of any inorganic activity. We will continue to evaluate our capital allocation options, balancing accretive investments in our long term strategy with maintaining a strong balance sheet.

Conference Call and Webcast Information

Thermon's senior management team, including Bruce Thames, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Kevin Fox, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will discuss Q3 2022 results during a conference call today, February 3, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. (Central Time). The call will be simultaneously webcast and the accompanying slide presentation containing financial information can be accessed on Thermon's investor relations website located at http://ir.thermon.com . Investment community professionals interested in participating in the question-and-answer session may access the call by dialing (877) 407-5976 from within the United States/Canada and (412) 902-0031 from outside of the United States/Canada. A replay of the webcast will be available on Thermon's investor relations website after the conclusion of the call.

About Thermon

Through its global network, Thermon provides safe, reliable and mission critical industrial process heating solutions. Thermon specializes in providing complete flow assurance, process heating, temperature maintenance, freeze protection and environmental monitoring solutions. Thermon is headquartered in Austin, Texas. For more information, please visit www.thermon.com .

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Disclosure in this release of "Adjusted EPS," "Adjusted EBITDA," "Adjusted EBITDA margin," "Adjusted Net Income/(Loss)" and "Free Cash Flow" which are "non-GAAP financial measures" as defined under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), are intended as supplemental measures of our financial performance that are not required by, or presented in accordance with, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). "Adjusted Net Income/(Loss)" and "Adjusted EPS" (or "Adjusted fully diluted EPS") represent net income/(loss) before the impact of restructuring and other charges/(income), amortization of intangible assets, tax expense for impact of foreign rate increases, withholding tax on dividend related to the debt amendment, loss on debt extinguishment, the benefit from the CEWS, and any tax effect of such adjustments. "Adjusted EBITDA" represents net income/(loss) before interest expense (net of interest income), income tax expense, depreciation and amortization expense, stock-based compensation expense, costs associated with our restructuring and other income/(charges), the loss on our debt extinguishment, and income related to the CEWS. "Adjusted EBITDA margin" represents Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of total revenue. "Free Cash Flow" represents cash provided by operating activities less cash used for the purchase of property, plant, and equipment, net of sales of rental equipment and proceeds from sales of land and buildings.

We believe these non-GAAP financial measures are meaningful to our investors to enhance their understanding of our financial performance and are frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties to compare our performance with the performance of other companies that report Adjusted EPS, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin or Adjusted Net Income/(Loss). Adjusted EPS, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted Net Income/(Loss) and Free Cash Flow should be considered in addition to, and not as substitutes for, income from operations, net income/(loss), net income/(loss) per share and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with GAAP. We provide Free Cash Flow as a measure of liquidity. Our calculation of Adjusted EPS, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted Net Income/(Loss) and Free Cash Flow may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. For a description of how Adjusted EPS, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted Net Income/(Loss) and Free Cash Flow are calculated and reconciliations to the corresponding GAAP measures, see the sections of this release titled "Reconciliation of Net Income/(Loss) to Adjusted EBITDA," "Reconciliation of Net Income/(Loss) to Adjusted Net Income/(Loss) and Adjusted EPS" and "Reconciliation of Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow."

Forward-Looking Statements

This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws in addition to historical information. These forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding our industry, business strategy, plans, goals and expectations concerning our market position, future operations, margins, profitability, capital expenditures, liquidity and capital resources and other financial and operating information such as our Fiscal 2022 full-year guidance. When used herein, the words "anticipate," "assume," "believe," "budget," "continue," "contemplate," "could," "should" "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "possible," "potential," "predict," "project," "will," "would," "future," and similar terms and phrases are intended to identify forward-looking statements in this release. Forward-looking statements reflect our current expectations regarding future events, results or outcomes. These expectations may or may not be realized. Some of these expectations may be based upon assumptions, data or judgments that prove to be incorrect. In addition, our business and operations involve numerous risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, which could result in our expectations not being realized or otherwise materially affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Actual events, results and outcomes may differ materially from our expectations due to a variety of factors. Although it is not possible to identify all of these factors, they include, among others, (i) the outbreak of the novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19); (ii) general economic conditions and cyclicality in the markets we serve; (iii) future growth of energy, chemical processing and power generation capital investments; (iv) our ability to operate successfully in foreign countries; (v) our ability to deliver existing orders within our backlog; (vi) our ability to bid and win new contracts; (vii) the imposition of certain operating and financial restrictions contained in our debt agreements; (viii) tax liabilities and changes to tax policy; (ix) our ability to successfully develop and improve our products and successfully implement new technologies; (x) competition from various other sources providing similar heat tracing and process heating products and services, or alternative technologies, to customers; (xi) our revenue mix; (xii) our ability to grow through strategic acquisitions; (xiii) changes in relevant currency exchange rates; (xiv) impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets; (xv) our ability to attract and retain qualified management and employees, particularly in our overseas markets; (xvi) our ability to protect our trade secrets; (xvii) our ability to protect our intellectual property; (xiii) our ability to protect data and thwart potential cyber-attacks; (xix) a material disruption at any of our manufacturing facilities; (xx) our dependence on subcontractors and third-party suppliers; (xxi) our ability to profit on fixed-price contracts; (xxii) the credit risk associated to our extension of credit to customers; (xxiii) our ability to achieve our operational initiatives; (xxiv) unforeseen difficulties with expansions, relocations, or consolidations of existing facilities; (xxv) potential liability related to our products as well as the delivery of products and services; (xxvi) our ability to comply with foreign anti-corruption laws; (xxvii) export control regulations or sanctions; (xxviii) changes in government administrative policy; (xxix) geopolitical instability in Russia and Ukraine and related sanctions by the U.S. government; (xxx) environmental and health and safety laws and regulations as well as environmental liabilities; (xxxi) our ability to remediate the material weakness identified in a previous quarterly period; (xxxii) climate change and related regulation of greenhouse gases, and (xxxiii) those factors listed under Item 1A "Risk Factors" included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on May 27, 2021 and in any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K or other filings that we have filed or may file with the SEC. Any one of these factors or a combination of these factors could materially affect our future results of operations and could influence whether any forward-looking statements contained in this release ultimately prove to be accurate.

Our forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results and future performance may differ materially from those suggested in any forward-looking statements. We do not intend to update these statements unless we are required to do so under applicable securities laws.

CONTACT:

Kevin Fox

(512) 690-0600

[email protected]

Thermon Group Holdings, In

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Selected Balance Sheet Data

(Unaudited, in Thousands except per share amounts)











Three Months Ended Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended Nine Months Ended

December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 Sales $ 100,613 $ 79,604 $ 253,090 $ 202,858 Cost of sales 59,866 42,644 154,084 112,848 Gross profit 40,747 36,960 99,006 90,010 Operating expenses: Selling, general and administrative expenses 22,099 20,283 66,820 66,222 Deferred compensation plan expense/(income) 292 599 610 1,380 Amortization of intangible assets 2,187 2,135 6,613 7,265 Restructuring and other charges/(income) - 3,783 (414 ) 8,692 Income/(loss) from operations 16,169 10,160 25,377 6,451 Other income/(expenses): Interest expense, net (842 ) (2,433 ) (5,029 ) (7,404 ) Other income/(expense) (627 ) 874 (3,517 ) 2,188 Income/(loss) before provision for taxes 14,700 8,601 16,831 1,235 Income tax expense/(benefit) 3,430 2,426 5,424 (693 ) Net income/(loss) $ 11,270 $ 6,175 $ 11,407 $ 1,928



Net income/(loss) per common share: Basic income/(loss) per share $ 0.34 $ 0.19 $ 0.34 $ 0.06 Diluted income/(loss) per share $ 0.33 $ 0.18 $ 0.34 $ 0.06 Weighted-average shares used in computing net income/(loss) per common share: Basic common shares 33,340 33,181 33,293 33,111 Fully-diluted common shares 33,658 33,420 33,482 33,234

December 31, 2021 March 31, 2021 Cash and cash equivalents $ 32,566 $ 40,124 Total debt (principal amount) 132,780 148,500 Total equity 388,560 378,872

Thermon Group Holdings, Inc.

Reconciliation of Net Income/(Loss) to Adjusted Net Income/(Loss) and Adjusted EPS

(Unaudited, in Thousands except per share amounts)

Three Months Ended Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended Nine Months Ended



December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 Adjustment to: GAAP Net income/(loss) $ 11,270 $ 6,175 $ 11,407 $ 1,928

Restructuring and other charges/(income) - 3,783 (414 ) 8,692 Operating expense Amortization of intangible assets 2,187 2,135 6,613 7,265 Intangible amortization Tax expense/(benefit) for impact of foreign rate adjustments (440 ) - 505 - Tax expense Withholding tax on dividend related to debt amendment - - 301 - Tax expense Loss on extinguishment of debt - - 2,569 - Other income/(expense) Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy (204 ) (1,700 ) (1,952 ) (5,505 ) Cost of Sales and Operating expense Tax effect of adjustments (444 ) (443 ) (1,489 ) (2,094 )

Adjusted Net Income/(Loss) (non-GAAP) $ 12,369 $ 9,950 $ 17,540 $ 10,286





Adjusted Fully Diluted Earnings per Common Share (Adjusted EPS) (non-GAAP) $ 0.37 $ 0.30 $ 0.52 $ 0.31





Fully-diluted common shares 33,658 33,420 33,482 33,234



Thermon Group Holdings, Inc.

Reconciliation of Net Income/(Loss) to Adjusted EBITDA

(Unaudited, in Thousands)

Three Months Ended Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended Nine Months Ended

December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 GAAP Net income/(loss) $ 11,270 $ 6,175 $ 11,407 $ 1,928 Interest expense, net 842 2,433 5,029 7,404 Income tax expense/(benefit) 3,430 2,426 5,424 (693 ) Depreciation and amortization expense 4,972 4,974 15,349 15,617 EBITDA (non-GAAP) $ 20,514 $ 16,008 $ 37,209 $ 24,256 Stock compensation expense 275 430 2,699 2,921 Restructuring and other charges/(income) - 3,783 (414 ) 8,692 Loss on debt extinguishment - - 2,569 - Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy (204 ) (1,700 ) (1,952 ) (5,505 ) Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) $ 20,585 $ 18,521 $ 40,111 $ 30,364 Adjusted EBITDA % 20.5 % 23.3 % 15.8 % 15.0 %

Thermon Group Holdings, Inc.

Reconciliation of Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow

(Unaudited, in Thousands)

Three Months Ended Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended Nine Months Ended

December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 December 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 Cash provided by/(used in) by operating activities 3,295 2,875 13,746 15,479 Cash provided by/(used in) by investing activities (687 ) (548 ) (2,685 ) (4,643 ) Cash provided by/(used in) by financing activities (7,295 ) (5,690 ) (17,287 ) (7,588 )

Cash provided by operating activities 3,295 2,875 13,746 15,479 Less: Cash used for purchases of property, plant and equipment (865 ) (576 ) (2,920 ) (4,708 ) Plus: Sales of rental equipment 178 28 235 65 Free cash flow provided (non-GAAP) $ 2,608 $ 2,327 $ 11,061 $ 10,836

SOURCE: Thermon Group Holdings, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
DETROIT and ATLANTA, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mann Robinson Studios is proud to announce the release of Mann Robinson and Torrei Hart's Super Turnt. The highly anticipated sequel to "Turnt" will release on Amazon Prime February 8th, 2022. The movie's theme song "Lit" by Torrei Hart will release on music all streaming platforms the same day.

A story about Rilla, a highly feared street-lord and rapper, who has just been released from prison and finds that his immediate world has changed. His only mission is to be a father to his son, but the dangers of the street remain the same placing Rilla on the wrong side of the law once again.

Super Turnt, the second film from the Turnt franchise, was Produced by Torrei Hart, Harry Lennix, and Mann Robinson who also wrote, directed, and starred in the action-packed film that was shot in his 20,000 square foot studio in Atlanta Georgia. Super Turnt starring Jamal Woolard (Notorious, All Eyez on Me), Torrei Hart (Turnt), Harry Lennix (The Blacklist, Troubled Waters) Patrice Fisher (Saints and Sinners), Dennis L.A. White (Notorious, Turnt), E. Roger Mitchell (The Equalizer) and Troy Escoda (All My Children) is a story about Rilla, a highly feared street-lord and rapper, who has just been released from prison and finds that his immediate world has changed. His only mission is to be a father to his son, but the dangers of the street remain the same placing Rilla on the wrong side of the law once again.

Mann Robinson's creative and authentic approach to writing, directing, and producing is true to the art of storytelling bringing a vivid point of view to the screen. The prequel to Super Turnt was based on his own life experiences and the events of many he was affiliated with in his former life. He was inspired to share with the world what transpires behind the scenes within the music industry and street life. His ability to bring a story to life in a raw yet cinematic way, is a gift that brings the realness of the streets to the world on the big screen, making Super Turnt a must see!

About Mann Robinson

Mann Robinson is an American Film Director, Producer, Actor, Author, and Entrepreneur. With over 15 years of industry experience, Mann is a pioneer and trailblazer in the film industry. In 2014, Mann begin writing the screenplay for "Turnt", and by 2015, Mann Robinson Productions partnered with Torrei Hart and together they have worked on several projects that include: Turnt, Super Turnt, ON TEN TV Series starring Vivica Fox, and Sebastian releasing in early 2022.

www.MannRobinson.com

About Mann Robinson Studios

Mann Robinson Studios is a full production studio located in Atlanta, GA right off the famous BeltLine. Founded in 2021 by Mann Robinson, the 20,000 square foot warehouse style studio boasts 20-foot ceilings, 32-foot green and white cyc walls, ample space for set building, and silent AC/Heat. The studio is open and available for booking.

www.MannRobinsonStudios.com

OFFICIAL TRAILER LINK:

https://youtu.be/oKgFczfMt3s

Contact/Interviews

Asia Diamond

404.500.2166

[email protected]

IG: @MANNROBINSON

SOURCE Mann Robinson Studios
Rylan Clark's next rung on his career ladder could see him take on the likes of Kylie Jenner as he establishes two firms to handle his new cosmetics brand.

The TV presenter, 33, is reportedly planning on launching a brand comprising of shower gels, soaps and cosmetics.

As reported in The Sun, the Supermarket Sweep host has trademarked company name Paste Inc, which, on Companies House is listed as 'retail sale of cosmetic and toilet articles in specialised stores.'

Venture: Rylan Clark's next rung on his career ladder could see him take on the likes of Kylie Jenner as he establishes two firms to handle his new cosmetics brand (pictured March 2020)

Socialite Kylie, 24, earned her wealth from her eponymous cosmetics company, valued at about 999,071 ($1.2 billion). In 2019, she sold 51% of the company to Coty for 499,531 ($600 million).

The seven areas which Rylan has been granted trademark protection in include makeup, perfume and scented candles.

Lawyers have passed the application at the UK governments Intellectual Property Office and is set in place for ten years.

Rolling in it: Socialite Kylie, 24, earned her wealth from her eponymous cosmetics company, valued at about 999,071 ($1.2 billion) (pictured February 2020)

Legal documentation means there is no risk of others cashing in on his fame by using the company name.

It has been said that Rylan will also have the scope to launch his own clothes, footwear and bags, as these types of goods have also been trademarked.

Additionally, the former X Factor star also runs Luxenoa, a property firm worth 1.2million.

MailOnline has reached out to Rylan's representatives for comment.

Exciting: The Supermarket Sweep host has trademarked company name Paste Inc, which, on Companies House is listed as 'retail sale of cosmetic and toilet articles in specialised stores'

Earlier this week, Rylan shed light on his feelings over his public image and his boozy antics during an appearance on Alan Carr's podcast.

The TV star appeared on the Chatty Man host's Lifes A Beach podcast, where he laid bare his fears that he could be seen as 'an a**ehole' to the public and also discussed his drunken holiday antics in a candid chat.

The release of the backdated interview comes just one day after Rylan received an outpouring of support from a legion of stars in the wake of the release of a video showing him 'demanding gear' during a night on the town.

Open and honest: Earlier this week, Rylan shed light on his feelings over his public image and his boozy antics during an appearance on Alan Carr's podcast

Alan's podcast features stars chatting about their holiday experiences, past trips and upcoming jaunts, peppered with anecdotes about their lives.

Rylan, who announced his divorce from husband Dan Neal in June last year, spoke about his reluctance to complain 'because of his job', as he admitted he lives in fear of 'being called an a**ehole' or being sold out to the press.

He said: 'I am not a complainer. I get embarrassed if I complain. If I go to a restaurant and it's s**t I say let's just pay it and go. I think that's because of my job. I'm so worried, so if I say "This is disgusting", they'll say "That Rylan was an a**ehole"'.

Additionally, Rylan detailed what he likes to drink on holiday, saying if he flies with British Airways, dependent on class, he will 'try everything', while also revealing he was drunk on his return flight from Dubai after X Factor Judges' Houses in 2012.
Besides being a moniker used to describe a big cat subfamily, the word panther was deemed impressive enough by the worlds armies down the years to be used on a large number of military hardware, with the most famous probably being the World War Two Panzerkampfwagen V Panther And military units found it appealing as well. One thats using it for a name today is the American 494th Fighter Squadron , currently deployed with its fleet of F-15E Strike Eagles to Europe, at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom.Weve seen this Panthers unit flying its Eagles before, and well probably continue to do so even more in the coming months, given the increasing tensions over in Europe and Americas need of looking ready for anything.The first public outing of the Panthers this year comes courtesy of a pic snapped over the North Sea earlier in January, during routine refueling operations performed there with the goal of increasing the readiness and operational capabilities of Royal Air Force Lakenheaths aircrew.The Strike Eagle is one of the U.S. Air Forces best and most widespread assets currently in use. Some 500 of them have been made since the 1980s (about half are left in active duty with the USAF), and the family is presently being modernized with the arrival of the mighty F-15EX Eagle II The Strike Eagle is powered by a pair of Pratt & Whitney turbofan engines that gives it a top speed of 1,875 mph (3,017 km) and makes it one of the fastest military aircraft in existence.Weapons-wise, the Strike Eagle can carry a six-barrel cannon and an assortment of AIM-9 Sidewinder and AMRAAM missiles.The price of a single F-15E Strike Eagle is of close to $50 million.
Hyderabad, Feb 3 : Jr NTR, who will soon be seen in S.S. Rajamouli's 'RRR', is rumoured to have signed a movie to be helmed by 'Uppena' director Buchi Babu Sana.

Despite the fact that NTR has not confirmed any of his upcoming projects yet, these rumours on his probable collaboration with Buchi Babu Sana are making the rounds on the internet.

It is reported that the title 'Peddhi' is fixed for this yet-to-be-confirmed movie.

Having said that, sources also suggest that the makers of this movie are keen on bringing Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor on board.

"Tarak will be seen as a kabaddi player in this movie and the film will also feature Janhvi Kapoor playing a glamorous role," said an online source.

"As it marks 'Uppena'-fame director Buchi Babu Sana's second movie, he has readied a mind-blowing script with a sports-drama as the crux." Jr NTR is also in talks with 'Acharya' director Koratala Siva for their next commercial drama. He is also scheduled to act in another movie under the direction of Trivikram Srinivas.

As of now, it is family time for Jr NTR, as he awaits the release of 'RRR', in which he is to appear as Komaram Bheem. None of his upcoming movies are officially launched, as the fans eagerly wait for the same to happen.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Politicians and investor-owned utilities are now proposing small nuclear reactors in Montana to replace the old coal-fired power plants at Colstrip. For the last 44 years a successful citizens initiative banned nuclear power in Montana unless approved by the voters. But Republican majorities in the 2021 Montana :egislature repealed the initiative and Republican Gov. Gianforte signed the bill into law. There are similar proposals in Wyoming and Idaho.

Exploding Costs

Of the 27 Utah cities that initially committed to buy electricity from Idahos proposed nuclear reactor, seven have already backed out after the Utah Taxpayers Association raised concerns about serious financial overruns in the future, which would stick ratepayers with the costs. The concerns are well-founded since other advanced reactor projects across the country have been over budget, behind schedule, and have yet to produce any power.

For example, Duke Energy dropped a nuclear energy project after the estimated cost of $5 billion exploded to $22 billion. Yet ratepayers were still burned when the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) voted to stick ratepayers for $800 million in excess costs for a reactor that never generated any electricity. South Carolinas PSC approved a $9 billion nuclear project  but the utilities abandoned the project, never produced any electricity and left ratepayers to pick up the costs. Meanwhile, the Vogtle plant in Georgia -- currently under construction and six years behind schedule -- was initially estimated to cost $14 billion, but is now at least $30 billion. Last October, Georgias PSC approved Vogtles request to pass on $2.1 billion in construction costs to ratepayers without producing a single kilowatt of energy.

SAFE?

These small nuclear reactors are theoretically less prone to meltdown than conventional nuclear reactors because they use liquid sodium metal as coolant rather than water. Since sodiums boiling point is much higher than the reactors operational temperature, the coolant wont boil or vaporize so the system does not need to be pressurized.

But heres the kicker, liquid sodium catches fire if exposed to air or water. The sodium-cooled reactors at the Monju project in Japan and the Superphenix in France have experienced leaks leading to fires and shutdowns.

The Union of Concerned Scientists has strong reservations about the sodium-cooled Natrium design.

Nuclear waste

Due to late Sen. Harry Reids successful effort to halt construction of a national nuclear waste repository at Yucca Mountain in Nevada, all nuclear waste in the U.S. must now be stored on-site in concrete casks. Attempts to build "temporary" national waste repository sites in remote parts of the West  such as the west desert in Utah and rural Wyoming  have been stopped by local and congressional opposition.

Initially, TerraPower, Bill Gates company that would build the Montana reactors, proposed a breed and burn reactor that recycled its own waste by burning depleted uranium. Those plans have been discarded, however, in favor of storing the nuclear waste on-site.

Decommissioning costs

The shocking costs go on even after the reactors have been shut down. Decommissioning cost for the Colstrip reactor was recently estimated at as much as $5 billion.

Put it all together and the bottom line is pretty clear: Its time to say goodbye and good riddance not only to coal but also to nuclear power.

Mike Garrity is the executive director of the Alliance for the Wild Rockies.
Hello, its lunchtime in Paris. The far-right candidate Eric Zemmour visits a former nuclear power plant in Fessenheim (Alsace, east). It shut down in 2020 following a commitment made by Socialist Francois Hollande during the 2012 presidential campaign. The former polemicist is a strong advocate for nuclear.

What happened yesterday ? Emmanuel Macron started a two days visit in the north of France. He began it by paying tribute to the victims of a firedamp explosion in 1974.

Why does it matter ? By going to a former stronghold of the left-wing and praising "the Social Republic", the incumbent and likely candidate sent signals to the left-wing voters, who might have no candidate to support in the second round of the presidential election.

It was in the air, and a pundit put a name on it. "The projects, the proposals, they dont stick. Its a Teflon campaign", said Monday Brice Teinturier, the head of Ipsos, a well-known polling institute, in a radio interview (disclaimer: Le Monde will publish in the weeks to come several waves of Ipsos surveys). "We have the impression that nothing sticks to the French people, that there is no strong or structuring element (in the platforms, editors note) and in the personalities either", he went on. "When we look at how the French view the candidates, it is relatively mediocre", added Brice Teinturier mercilessly. He wont be accused of overselling this presidential campaign.

Wednesday helped explain why the race got bogged down in such a metaphoric quagmire. The right-wing and far-right candidates were debating crime with a right-wing police union. They all promised to be tougher on crime than you can imagine and heavily displayed their love of the police. A boring routine. At the same time, the left-wing candidates engaged in a similar exercise on public housing issues. They were grilled by the Abbe Pierre Foundation, a well-known NGO, and promised, hand over heart, to improve the insulation of those buildings, better regulate rents, and build thousands of housing units for low incomes if they were elected, something also highly anticipated. It was only painful for Christiane Taubira (center-left), who had come unprepared.

To ensure perfect symmetry, leftist Jean-Luc Melenchon, accused by the police union of hating law enforcement officers, was not invited to their debate. Nor were the two far-right candidates invited by the Abbe Pierre foundation because they want to limit social housing to French people only. The conservative Valerie Pecresse (Les Republicains) preferred to pay tribute to the union rather than the foundation. She sent an aide to represent her. Emmanuel Macron made the opposite choice. While he chose to send the interior minister to the police union debate, he spoke online with the foundation to beat his chest and acknowledge that he didnt go "far enough."

Many factors can explain the Teflon effect. First, the omicron wave is only starting to recede. Hospitals are still overwhelmed with patients, and the main restrictions on daily life wont ease before mid-February. Second, Emmanuel Macron is still exploiting the benefit of a frontline presidency with Covid and Ukraine on his plate. He is in no rush in entering trench warfare. Its much more rewarding to talk on the phone to the President of the United States or go to Moscow to try to negotiate with the Russian president.

Third, following Brice Teinturier assessment of the candidates image, its hard to find what Barack Obama called "the new car smell" voters want. Two main candidates are running for the third and probably last time, Marine Le Pen (far-right) and Jean-Luc Melenchon. Christiane Taubira turned 70 yesterday. Green candidate Yannick Jadot and Socialist Anne Hidalgo are running for president for the first time but they are clearly struggling. Eric Zemmour and Valerie Pecresse are newcomers too, but the first one scares voters (only 8% of the people wish he wins according to a Kantar poll published by Le Monde in January) and the second puts them to sleep.

Emmanuel Macron could be the spark that ignites the campaign, but as an incumbent running for reelection, it will be hard for him to promise to do what he was unable to achieve in five years. A blitzkrieg may start soon, but nobody knows when, where, and whether French citizens will be watching.

Number of the day

43 %

According to a study published by the French think-tank Institut Montaigne, a relative majority of young voters or potential voters feel disaffiliated. Its almost twice the number of their parents. 43 % of the young people surveyed said their ideas are not precise enough to position themselves on a left-right scale. 55 % of them cannot indicate a partisan preference, either because they dont know enough about the parties (36 %) or because none of them corresponds to their choice (19 %). This is true for all political parties, even for the Green party, Europe Ecologie-Les Verts (EELV). Although the environment is a major concern for this category of the population, only 11 % declare that they feel close to this party.

Children are much less politically affiliated than their parents Source : Source : Institut Montaigne (in French)

Quote of the day

"You are on the front line of a battle of civilizations"

The far-right candidate Eric Zemmour reiterated Wednesday his vision of a country in the grip of a civil war in front of right-wing unionized police officers. "You are on the front line of a battle of civilizations", he said. "Facing you are not just delinquents, but another civilization with which we cannot peacefully co-exist (...). Every day delinquents and jihadists are the same. Same origins, same backgrounds, same neighborhoods. Some wage jihad, others wage the jihad of everyday life", he added.

Countdown

66 Days until the presidential elections first round

80 Days until the presidential elections second round

Thanks for reading, see you tomorrow

Read the previous column : Poaching on the rise as presidential race tightens

Gilles Paris(Columnist and former Le Monde correspondent in Washington)
Lawrence County Commissioners approved a conditional use permit last week to allow the Coeur Wharf mine near Lead to expand operations by an additional 47 acres.

According to the conditional use permit application, the new area  called the Wharf Boston Expansion  is located to the south of the existing Wharf Mine. The application says the 47.4-acre area is accessed by Wharf Road and Nevada Gulch Road, and is approximately one mile north of the Terry Peak Ski Area.

Total production in the expanded area is estimated to produce 175 tons of material and will produce both gold and silver.

"Mining in the expansion area is anticipated to increase the mine life by one to three years, thus extending the total mine life until 2028 to potentially 2030," the application said.

The expanded area will use the same techniques as before for the Wharf Mine. It will include open-pit mining and overburden disposal. The material will be transported to the mine's existing heap-leach facility for processing. Heap-leaching is where mined ore is crushed, piled on giant pads and treated with a cyanide solution to leach out the precious metals. The cyanide and water used at the site is retained in a closed-loop system.

"Processing gold and silver at the Wharf Mine processing plant will not substantially change as a result of the Boston Expansion project," the company said. "Ore will continue to be milled at Wharf's crushing plants, and gold will be heap-leached on heap-leach pads."

According to a report from the Black Hills Pioneer, 20 letters were submitted to the county in support of the expansion and one letter was against the plan.

Another company in Lawrence County filed paperwork last month with the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources signaling its intent to explore for gold near the ghost town of Maitland.

Dakota Territory Resource Corporation, which is based in Lead, submitted an Exploration Notice of Intent with the state agency on Jan. 13 for the Richmond Hill program. The notice states the company is planning to explore for gold deposits on private land near Maitland, with up to 16 one-acre drill pads hosting five holes each.

The Notice of Intent states each hole could be drilled vertically, or in some instances horizontally, to a maximum depth/length of 5,000 feet.

Since the project is on private land, no permit is needed from the state for the drilling. However, regulators can place certain restrictions on the project.

The company claims the drilling sites would be along existing roads, but with the possibility of disturbing one trail by clearing vegetation and widening the trail. The drilling rigs would be on large trucks using core and reverse circulation methods, the notice states.

This is the second exploratory project for Dakota Territory Resource in recent months. The company announced in November another project on private land near Maitland where they plan up to seven one-acre drill pads hosting 10 holes each and drilling to a depth of 10,000 feet.

Dakota Territory Resource has filed a land reclamation plan where disturbed topsoil will be used for regrading and the company would reseed vegetation. All drill holes are required to be plugged.

The company was also required to submit a Cultural Resources Report and lease agreements with the landowners. Those documents are not public. State law prohibits public release of these types of reports, as the state considers them to be confidential.

Dakota Territory Resource Corporation owns eight mineral properties and has a combined ownership and/or surface lease on more than 19,000 acres in the Black Hills. The properties are all located within the Homestake District in the Northern Hills.

The company says the Black Hills is a "low-cost jurisdiction" and cites South Dakota's willingness to work with mining and exploratory companies. The company's website says "South Dakota's exploration and mining regulations are reasonable and comparable to other mining jurisdictions within the United States."

The newest drilling project from Dakota Territory Resources joins three other companies who plan to continue gold exploration in the Black Hills.
DALLAS, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- New research from Parks Associates finds that as of 4Q 2021, 36% of US internet households are actively shopping for a smart home device. The research firm today announced the keynote and speakers for "State of the Smart Home," the opening session for the 26th annual CONNECTIONS: Premier Connected Home Conference, which is now scheduled for Wednesday, February 16, 11:00 a.m. CT. Event sponsors include Alarm.com, Cox Communities, Airties, Notion, Rapid Response Monitoring, AmTrust Specialty Risk, and Gadgeon.

Parks Associates: Smart Home Active Shoppers CONNECTIONS

"State of the Smart Home" includes insights on consumer perceptions of smart home solutions and analysis on current interoperability efforts, as well as the role of standalone devices and whole-home systems in the continued move toward mass-market adoption. According to the firm's quarterly consumer data of 10,000 Internet households:

27% of multi-dwelling unit (MDU) residents have a smart device provided by landlord or property owner.

17% of US internet households now own an Apple Watch.

114 million US households access the internet at home.

14% of US internet households own a smart light bulb.

The February 16 session features an executive fireside chat with Michelle Mindala-Freeman, Head of Marketing & Member Services, Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA).

"Parks Associates' CONNECTIONS continues to be the event where industry executives meet to share and learn," said Michelle Mindala-Freeman, Head of Marketing & Member Services, Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA). "I'm honored to be a part of this one and look forward to both talking about the future of smart home and learning from Parks Associates' researchers and this amazing group of IoT leaders."

The event also includes the following speakers:

Jacob Alamat , VP, GM, IoT Home & Life Business Unit, Silicon Labs

, VP, GM, IoT Home & Life Business Unit, Silicon Labs Kenneth Camp , Product Innovation Director, Sengled

, Product Innovation Director, Sengled Samantha Fein , VP, Business Development and Marketing, Samsung SmartThings

, VP, Business Development and Marketing, Samsung SmartThings Scott Harkins , VP, Sales and Marketing, Resideo

, VP, Sales and Marketing, Resideo Kevin Kraus , VP Global Programs and Technology Alliances, Smart Residential Solutions, ASSA ABLOY Group

, VP Global Programs and Technology Alliances, Smart Residential Solutions, ASSA ABLOY Group John Osborne , Chair Emeritus, CSA; Vice Chairman, Z-Wave Alliance; COO, Lexi

, Chair Emeritus, CSA; Vice Chairman, Z-Wave Alliance; COO, Lexi Eric Villines , Head, Global Communications, Anker Innovations

, Head, Global Communications, Anker Innovations Yana Welinder, CEO, Kraftful

Stefan Witkamp , Co-founder, Commercial Director, Homey

"In recent years, we have seen an evolution in what is possible for the smart home, with more and more products and platforms becoming available to consumers. As smart home providers, we should evaluate what's important to consumers and what we can do to meet their needs," said Kevin Kraus, VP Global Programs and Technology Alliances, Smart Residential Solutions, ASSA ABLOY Group. "I'm thrilled to take part in CONNECTIONS to discuss the importance of these topics with some of the many brilliant minds from across the industry."

CONNECTIONS supporters include CEE, Dementia Society of America (DSA), Electronic Security Association, Home Grid Forum, Innovation & Tech Today Magazine, Living Labs and the Peggy Smedley Show, The Monitoring Association (TMA), Residential Tech Today, and Z-Wave Alliance.

For 26 years, CONNECTIONS has brought together thousands of industry players from the consumer technology ecosystems. To request data or an interview, contact Rosey Sera, [email protected], 972-490-1113.

About CONNECTIONS

Parks Associates' 26th annual CONNECTIONS: The Premier Connected Home Conference features an in-person conference on May 17-19 and virtual sessions on February 16, April 14, August 18, October 20, and November 10. The event series focuses on the adoption of technology including smart home, security, connected health, energy, and home automation. www.connectionsconference.com.

Rosey Sera

Parks Associates

972-996-0202

[email protected]

SOURCE Parks Associates
JACKSON, Mich., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CMS Energy announced today reported earnings per share of $4.66 for 2021, compared to $2.64 per share for 2020. The company's adjusted earnings per share were $2.65 for 2021, compared to $2.47 per share for 2020. CMS Energy also recently announced the increase of its annual dividend by 10 cents per share to $1.84 for 2022.

CMS Energy Logo

CMS Energy raised its 2022 adjusted earnings guidance to $2.85 to $2.89 per share, from $2.85 to $2.87 per share* (*See below for important information about non-GAAP measures) and reaffirmed long-term adjusted EPS growth of 6 to 8 percent, with continued confidence toward the high end of the adjusted EPS growth range.

"CMS Energy is well positioned for continued success following a strong year of execution in 2021 and the announcement of an updated 5-year customer investment plan of $14.3 billion," said Garrick Rochow, President and CEO of CMS Energy and Consumers Energy. "We continue to demonstrate our commitment, delivering across the Triple Bottom Line of People, Planet and Profit, to serve our customers, communities and investors."

CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS) is a Michigan-based energy company featuring Consumers Energy as its primary business. It also owns and operates independent power generation businesses.

# # #

CMS Energy will hold a webcast to discuss its 2021 year-end results and provide a business and financial outlook on February 3 at 9:30 a.m. (EST). To participate in the webcast, go to CMS Energy's homepage (cmsenergy.com) and select "Events and Presentations."

Important information for investors about non-GAAP measures and other disclosures.

*This news release contains non-Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (non-GAAP) measures, such as adjusted earnings. All references to net income refer to net income available to common stockholders and references to earnings per share are on a diluted basis. Adjustments could include items such as discontinued operations, asset sales, impairments, restructuring costs, changes in accounting principles, changes in federal tax policy, regulatory items from prior years, unrealized gains or losses from mark-to-market adjustments recognized in net income related to CMS Enterprises' interest expense, or other items. Management views adjusted earnings as a key measure of the company's present operating financial performance and uses adjusted earnings for external communications with analysts and investors. Internally, the company uses adjusted earnings to measure and assess performance. Because the company is not able to estimate the impact of specific line items, which have the potential to significantly impact, favorably or unfavorably, the company's reported earnings in future periods, the company is not providing reported earnings guidance nor is it providing a reconciliation for the comparable future period earnings. The company's adjusted earnings should be considered supplemental information to assist in understanding our business results, rather than as a substitute for the reported earnings.

Story continues

This news release contains "forward-looking statements." The forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause CMS Energy's and Consumers Energy's results to differ materially. All forward-looking statements should be considered in the context of the risk and other factors detailed from time to time in CMS Energy's and Consumers Energy's Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

Investors and others should note that CMS Energy routinely posts important information on its website and considers the Investor Relations section, www.cmsenergy.com/investor-relations, a channel of distribution.

For more information on CMS Energy, please visit our website at cmsenergy.com.

To sign up for email alert notifications, please visit the Investor Relations section of our website.

CMS ENERGY CORPORATION Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)





In Millions, Except Per Share Amounts



Three Months Ended

Twelve Months Ended



12/31/21

12/31/20

12/31/21

12/31/20

























Operating revenue $ 2,033

$ 1,727

$ 7,329

$ 6,418

























Operating expenses

1,829



1,420



6,183



5,188

























Operating Income

204



307



1,146



1,230

























Other income (expense)

41



(15)



177



84

























Interest charges

126



127



500



505

























Income Before Income Taxes

119



165



823



809

























Income tax expense

5



27



95



115

























Income From Continuing Operations

114



138



728



694

























Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

520



24



602



58

























Net Income

634



162



1,330



752

























Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

(5)



4



(23)



(3)

























Net Income Attributable to CMS Energy

639



158



1,353



755

























Preferred stock dividends

2



-



5



-

























Net Income Available to Common Stockholders $ 637

$ 158

$ 1,348

$ 755

























Basic Earnings Per Average Common Share





















Income from continuing operations per average common share

available to common stockholders





















$ 0.40

$ 0.47

$ 2.58

$ 2.45 Income from discontinued operations per average common share

available to common stockholders























1.80



0.08



2.08



0.20 Basic earnings per average common share $ 2.20

$ 0.55

$ 4.66

$ 2.65

























Diluted Earnings Per Average Common Share





















Income from continuing operations per average common share

available to common stockholders





















$ 0.40

$ 0.47

$ 2.58

$ 2.44 Income from discontinued operations per average common share

available to common stockholders























1.80



0.08



2.08



0.20 Diluted earnings per average common share $ 2.20

$ 0.55

$ 4.66

$ 2.64

CMS ENERGY CORPORATION Summarized Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)

In Millions Assets













Current assets













Cash and cash equivalents

$ 452



$ 32 Restricted cash and cash equivalents



24





17

Assets held for sale



19





429 Other current assets



2,132





1,926 Total current assets



2,627





2,404 Non-current assets













Plant, property, and equipment



22,352





21,017

Assets held for sale



-





2,680 Other non-current assets



3,774





3,565 Total Assets

$ 28,753



$ 29,666

















Liabilities and Equity













Current liabilities (1)















Liabilities held for sale

$ -



$ 953

Other current liabilities



1,822





1,530 Total current liabilities



1,822





2,483 Non-current liabilities (1)















Liabilities held for sale



-





1,894

Other non-current liabilities



7,269





6,821 Total non-current liabilities



7,269





8,715 Capitalization













Debt, finance leases, and other financing (excluding securitization debt) (2)













Debt, finance leases, and other financing (excluding non-recourse and securitization debt)



12,200





12,083 Non-recourse debt



76





83 Total debt, finance leases, and other financing (excluding securitization debt)



12,276





12,166 Preferred stock and securities



224





- Noncontrolling interests



557





581 Common stockholders' equity



6,407





5,496 Total capitalization (excluding securitization debt)



19,464





18,243 Securitization debt (2)



198





225 Total Liabilities and Equity

$ 28,753



$ 29,666

















(1) Excludes debt, finance leases, and other financing.

















(2) Includes current and non-current portions.

CMS ENERGY CORPORATION Summarized Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)





















In Millions



Twelve Months Ended



12/31/21

12/31/20

















Beginning of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents, Including Restricted Amounts

$ 185



$ 157

















Net cash provided by operating activities (3)



1,819





1,276 Net cash used in investing activities



(1,233)





(2,867) Cash flows from operating and investing activities



586





(1,591) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities



(295)





1,619

















Total Cash Flows

$ 291



$ 28

















End of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents, Including Restricted Amounts(4)

$ 476



$ 185

















(3) Includes the impact of a $531 million pension contribution in 2020.













(4) In October 2021, CMS Energy sold EnerBank to Regions Bank. As a result, EnerBank's cash and cash equivalents are presented as assets held for sale on CMS Energy's consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2020.



CMS ENERGY CORPORATION Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income to Non-GAAP Adjusted Net Income (Unaudited)





In Millions, Except Per Share Amounts



Three Months Ended

Twelve Months Ended



12/31/21

12/31/20

12/31/21

12/31/20

























Net Income Available to Common Stockholders $ 637

$ 158

$ 1,348

$ 755 Reconciling items:





















Disposal of discontinued operations gain

(665)



-



(657)



- Tax impact

145



-



143



- Discontinued operations income

-



(32)



(115)



(76) Tax impact

-



8



27



18 Other exclusions from adjusted earnings**

*



2



(1)



13 Tax impact

(*)



(1)



*



(3) Loss on fleet impairment

29



-



29



- Tax impact

(7)



-



(7)



- Tax reform

-



-



-



(9) Voluntary separation program

-



*



-



11 Tax impact

-



(*)



-



(3)

























Adjusted net income  non-GAAP $ 139

$ 135

$ 767

$ 706

























Average Common Shares Outstanding





















Basic

289.1



285.7



289.0



285.0 Diluted

289.7



286.9



289.5



286.3

























Basic Earnings Per Average Common Share





















Reported net income per average common share $ 2.20

$ 0.55

$ 4.66

$ 2.65 Reconciling items:





















Disposal of discontinued operations gain

(2.30)



-



(2.27)



- Tax impact

0.50



-



0.49



- Discontinued operations income

-



(0.11)



(0.39)



(0.26) Tax impact

-



0.03



0.09



0.06 Other exclusions from adjusted earnings**

*



0.01



(*)



0.04 Tax impact

(*)



(*)



*



(0.01) Loss on fleet impairment

0.10



-



0.10



- Tax impact

(0.03)



-



(0.03)



- Tax reform

-



-



-



(0.03) Voluntary separation program

-



*



-



0.04 Tax impact

-



(*)



-



(0.01)

























Adjusted net income per average common share  non-GAAP $ 0.47

$ 0.48

$ 2.65

$ 2.48

























Diluted Earnings Per Average Common Share





















Reported net income per average common share $ 2.20

$ 0.55

$ 4.66

$ 2.64 Reconciling items:





















Disposal of discontinued operations gain

(2.30)



-



(2.27)



- Tax impact

0.50



-



0.49



- Discontinued operations income

-



(0.11)



(0.39)



(0.26) Tax impact

-



0.03



0.09



0.06 Other exclusions from adjusted earnings**

*



0.01



(*)



0.04 Tax impact

(*)



(*)



*



(0.01) Loss on fleet impairment

0.10



-



0.10



- Tax impact

(0.03)



-



(0.03)



- Tax reform

-



-



-



(0.03) Voluntary separation program

-



*



-



0.04 Tax impact

-



(*)



-



(0.01)

























Adjusted net income per average common share  non-GAAP $ 0.47

$ 0.48

$ 2.65

$ 2.47

























* Less than $0.5 million or $0.01 per share.





















** Includes restructuring costs and unrealized gains or losses from mark-to-market adjustments recognized in net income related to CMS Enterprises' interest expense. Management views adjusted (non-Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) earnings as a key measure of the Company's present operating financial performance and uses adjusted earnings for external communications with analysts and investors. Internally, the Company uses adjusted earnings to measure and assess performance. Adjustments could include items such as discontinued operations, asset sales, impairments, restructuring costs, changes in accounting principles, changes in federal tax policy, regulatory items from prior years, unrealized gains or losses from mark-to-market adjustments recognized in net income related to CMS Enterprises' interest expense, or other items. The adjusted earnings should be considered supplemental information to assist in understanding our business results, rather than as a substitute for reported earnings.

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Cision

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SOURCE CMS Energy
French President Emmanuel Macron has announced further funding to support Christian schools in the Middle East and renewed a pledge to protect heritage sites.

With just three months to go until the elections, Macron's gesture to defend education in conflict zones has not gone unnoticed by his political rivals on the right, keen to promote the notion of protecting Western values.

"Supporting Christians of the Orient is a secular engagement by France, it's a historic mission," Macron told 150 guests gathered at the Elysee Palace on Tuesday.

"It is a response to the necessity of never abandoning the battle for culture, education and dialogue in this troubled region," he went on, adding "this mission must never divide us, rather bring us together."

Based in the Middle East since the beginning of Christianity, Christians in the region have seen their population steadily decline from 20 percent before World War One to just 4 percent today, representing around 15 million people, according to the Vatican.

Macron announced that the French State would co-fund, with the organisation l'Oeuvre d'Orient, to double the current funding for schools, bringing the total to 4 million euros.

First released in January 2020, the funds have already helped 174 schools, 129 in Lebanon, 16 in Egypt, 7 in Israel, 13 in the Palestinian territories and three in Jordan throughout 2021.

Macron also took the opportunity to award the Legion of Honor award to Monsignor Pascal Gollnisch, director of the L'Oeuvre d'Orient since 2010.

"Keeping schools open today is a miracle, Sister Mariam An-Nour, director of the Saint Joseph of Beirut school told French news agency AFP, referring to the enormous challenges brought about by the economic and political crisis in Lebanon.

Macron also announced that France would renew its pledge of 30 million dollars for the International Alliance for the protection of heritage in conflict areas (Aliph), set up in 2017 in partnership with the United Arab Emirates.

This initiative supports 150 cultural sites that have been damaged or remain under threat by conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and by the explosion in the port of Beirut in 2020.

The 'religion' of politics

The desire to show public support for Christians has been brought into the limelight by several French politicians on the right, notablly Valerie Pecresse, leader of Les Republicains party (LR), who said during a visit to Armenia that "the question of Christians in the Middle East is at the heart of our policies".

On the far-right, Eric Zemmour, known for his hardline rhetoric on Islam and immigrants said it was necessary to "defend" Western civilisation and that "the Christian world must never refuse to go to war if it came under attack."

"I would not want for us to face the same fate as Christians in the Orient," Jordan Bardella, from the far-right National Rally said, referring to the persecution and atrocities against Christians and other minorities by the Islamic State jihadist faction in the region.

Byzance at the Louvre

In a separate development during the same ceremony at the Elysee, the new director of the Louvre Museum, Laurence des Cars announced the creation of a special wing dedicated to arts of the Byzance period and Christianity in the Middle East.

Expected to open in 2025, it would regroup some 12,000 works "among the most remarkable in the world," des Cars said.
Just three months ago, foreigners were fleeing Ethiopia in droves, responding to alarming security warnings from mostly Western embassies about a possible rebel advance on the capital.

This week, traffic is moving in the opposite direction, as delegations from across Africa fly in for the latest summit of the African Union this weekend -- an event the government has described as "a heavy blow to those who were professing the doomsday here".

Well over a year into a conflict ravaging the country's north, Ethiopia appears eager to host a meeting that will focus on other crises, and the AU has several on offer.

From coups to climate change to the coronavirus, the two-decade-old bloc is confronting a number of challenges which look set to weigh on its 55 member states for years to come.

It also faces the prospect of a debate over its relationship with Israel that analysts warn could become highly polarising during the two-day gathering that begins on Saturday.

The summit will allow Addis Ababa, home to the African Union headquarters, to present itself as a strong, stable host for its neighbours after more over a year of conflict in the country's north.. By EDUARDO SOTERAS (AFP)

The result is a fraught agenda that may distract from Ethiopia's troubles while allowing Addis Ababa, home to AU headquarters, to present itself as a strong, stable host for its neighbours.

"I think it can certainly be seen as a political win for Ethiopia," said Imogen Hooper, African Union analyst at the International Crisis Group (ICG), a conflict-prevention organisation.

Abiy's government "has been lobbying heavily for this to take place in person, because it does give a sense of normalisation."

Cascading coups

The summit follows a spate of recent coups on the continent, the latest occurring less than two weeks ago in Burkina Faso.

The two-decade-old African Union is confronting a number of challenges -- including coups, coronavirus and climate change -- that look set to weigh on the 55 member states for years to come.. By EDUARDO SOTERAS (AFP)

On Tuesday night, Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo survived a gun attack that both the AU and the West African bloc ECOWAS denounced as a coup attempt.

The following day, addressing a meeting of foreign ministers preceding this weekend's summit for heads of state, African Union Commission chair Moussa Faki Mahamat condemned a "worrying resurgence of military coups".

The AU's 15-member security body has suspended Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea and Sudan over their unconstitutional changes in power.

But it has not suspended Chad, where a military council took over following the death of longtime President Idriss Deby Itno on the battlefield last April.

"The AU's inconsistent response to the slew of unconstitutional changes of government has been particularly damaging," ICG said in a briefing this week.

The government of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been lobbying heavily for the African Union summit to take place in person in Addis Ababa to counter "those who were professing the doomsday here".. By EDUARDO SOTERAS (AFP)

At the summit , leaders should discuss how to be more proactive in addressing factors that give rise to coups, including terrorism-related instability and frustration over constitutional revisions that extend leaders' time in power, said Solomon Dersso, founder of the AU-focused Africa Amani think tank.

"It is only when crisis hits that we say, 'Gosh, how come this country is falling apart like this so quickly?'" Solomon said.

Disease and diplomacy

On Saturday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is slated to provide an update on Africa's response to the pandemic, nearly two years after the continent's first Covid-19 case was detected in Egypt.

As of January 26, only 11 percent of Africa's more than 1 billion people had been fully vaccinated, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

That is a far cry from the body's target of 70 percent by the end of the year.

With a busy and fraught agenda, it is doubtful the war in Ethiopia, pitting the government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed against the Tigray People's Liberation Front rebel group, will get much attention during the AU summit.. By EDUARDO SOTERAS (AFP)

African leaders have long spoken out against the hoarding of vaccines by rich countries, a theme likely to be repeated.

A draft agenda seen by AFP also includes a discussion of Faki's decision last year to accept Israel's accreditation at the AU.

Accredited non-African states are able to attend some conferences, access non-confidential AU documents and present statements at meetings that concern them.

Faki's move drew quick, vocal protest from powerful members including South Africa and Algeria, which argued that it flew in the face of AU statements supporting the Palestinian Territories.

Analysts say a vote on the issue could yield an unprecedented split in the bloc.

'African solutions'

Amid all this, it is doubtful the war in Ethiopia, pitting Abiy's government against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) rebel group, will get much attention.

The African Union summit in Addis Ababa follows a spate of recent coups on the continent, the latest occurring less than two weeks ago in Burkina Faso. . By EDUARDO SOTERAS (AFP)

Foreign envoys are pushing hard for a ceasefire and expanded aid access to conflict-hit areas.

But Abiy's government has dismissed criticism from the US and other Western powers as smacking of neo-imperialism.

If signs recently posted outside the Addis Ababa airport are any indication, Abiy seems poised to use this year's AU summit to shore up his pan-African bona fides.

"African solutions to African problems," reads one. "The future of Mother Africa is bright," reads another.

And a third: "To pull together is to avoid being pulled apart."
PHOENIX, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Connections Health Solutions, the founder and national leader of immediate-access behavioral health crisis stabilization, announced additions to the leadership team and the board of directors to support the organization's growth initiatives.

"We are at a pivotal moment in our organization's history; we are recognized as a leader in the industry, we are poised for dramatic growth and the communities we serve are in need of help now more than ever as we continue to grapple with the pandemic's impact on mental health," said Colin LeClair, Chief Executive Officer, Connections Health Solutions. "All of the leaders joining the Connections Health Solutions team have experienced much success throughout their tenures in the behavioral health industry and I am confident that their partnership and steadfast focus on operations and people will further strengthen our momentum."

Operations

James Smith, most recently Chief Operating Officer for Meridien Behavioral Health, joins Connections Health Solutions as the organization's Chief Operating Officer. James will utilize his 15 years of experience in behavioral health focused on growth, process improvement, clinical program development system implementation and client services to support the team's strategic initiatives and provide operational guidance throughout expansion opportunities.

Matt Miller, most recently Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health at Magellan Healthcare, joins the organization as Chief Growth & Implementation Officer. In this capacity, he will lead the organization's business development and growth strategy. His 20 years of experience in the health care industry focusing on strategic planning and growth coupled with knowledge of operations, business development and provider delivery system transformation will be integral to the success of the organization.

Human Resources

Jane Lock, SPHR, SHRM, joins Connections Health Solutions as Chief People Officer from Constellation Behavioral Health. Jane's 20 years of human resources experience paired with her educational background, certification as a Workplace Investigator through the Institute of Workplace Investigations and proven success building and leading high performing teams has already proven extremely impactful to the organization.

Board of Directors

Connections Health Solutions' underlying mission, strong foundation and expansion initiatives are also attracting new board members. Recent board appointments include Dr. Andrey Ostrovsky, M.D., Managing Partner at Social Innovation Ventures and attending physician at Children's National Medical Center, and Dr. Prakash Patel, M.D., Lead Operating Executive at Growth Curve Capital.

Dr. Ostrovsky, former Chief Medical Officer of the U.S. Medicaid program and co-founder of the software company Care at Hand, has served on several boards and committees dedicated to behavioral health, interoperability standards, quality measurement, and home and community-based services including the National Academies of Medicine, National Quality Forum, Institute for Healthcare Improvement, and the Commonwealth Fund. Dr. Patel has 25 years of health leadership practice and a proven track record of driving strategy and operations to deliver growth; he is a former Anthem Executive Vice President and President of the Diversified Business Group. Before joining Anthem, Patel served as Chief Operating Officer of the GuideWell Enterprise and Florida Blue and President of GuideWell Health; he also held executive roles with Magellan Health Services, Internet Healthcare Group, and Scheer & Company.

"As we continue on our journey and prepare to scale it's imperative that we have the right team members in place, to work together to grow the organization appropriately, efficiently and effectively for our patients, our partners and the communities we serve," said LeClair.

ABOUT CONNECTIONS HEALTH SOLUTIONS

Connections Health Solutions, LLC is the pioneer of 24/7 immediate access to comprehensive behavioral health care. Connections operates the two largest behavioral health facilities in the nation and provides a range of crisis and outpatient services to help people with mental health and substance use diagnoses achieve stability in the least restrictive setting. Connections' model has demonstrated quality and cost savings outcomes, including significant reduction of hospital admissions in Medicaid and behavioral health populations. For more information and crisis resources, please visit: www.connectionshs.com and reach out to [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT

Lisa Vanella

646-822-6029

[email protected]

SOURCE Connections Health Solutions
SHELTON, Conn., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Edgewell Personal Care Company (NYSE: EPC) today announced the appointment of LaTanya Langley as Chief Legal Officer (CLO), effective February 28, 2022. Ms. Langley will be based in the Company's Shelton, Connecticut office. She will report to President and CEO Rod Little and serve as an integral part of Edgewell's Global Leadership Team.

Edgewell Personal Care Company logo (PRNewsFoto/Edgewell Personal Care Company)

"I am very excited to have LaTanya join our global leadership team," said Rod Little, President and Chief Executive Officer of Edgewell. "She brings a proven track record and highly relevant experience to the role, which will allow her to have an immediate, positive impact. Additionally, LaTanya is an experienced team builder, a strong leader and her personal values and beliefs are closely aligned with what we are building here at Edgewell. I'm confident that she will not only enhance our culture, but also quickly establish herself as an invaluable partner to our business leaders around the world."

"I am honored to join the Edgewell team. I was drawn to the Company's impressive portfolio of brands, its people-first culture and deep sense of purpose," said Langley. "I will leverage my extensive experience leading global, high-performing teams, to help continue Edgewell's path of transformation and growth. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together."

Langley joins Edgewell from BIC Corp. where she served as Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary. In that role, she led a team with global responsibility for legal strategy and execution, in addition to global transactions including complex litigation management, human resources/employee relations, crisis management, commercial transactions, compliance and corporate governance. Prior to that, she previously held positions of increasing responsibility within the legal function at BIC, both in the United States and internationally. Prior to joining BIC, Langley held several legal positions at Diageo PLC, a global leader in beverage alcohol. She began her legal career in private practice as an associate at Paul Hastings LLP, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP and Shipman & Goodwin LLP, specializing in corporate law and business finance and restructuring.

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Langley earned her Bachelor of Arts in political science and Doctor of Laws, honoris causa from Trinity College, where she serves on the Board of Trustees. She earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Connecticut School of Law, where she serves as an adjunct professor.

About Edgewell

Edgewell is a leading pure-play consumer products company with an attractive, diversified portfolio of established brand names such as Schick and Wilkinson Sword men's shaving products; Schick and Billie women's shaving products; Edge and Skintimate shave preparations; Playtex, Stayfree, Carefree and o.b. feminine care products; Banana Boat, Hawaiian Tropic, Bulldog, Jack Black and Cremo sun and skin care products; and Wet Ones moist wipes. The Company has a broad global footprint and operates in more than 50 markets, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, Japan, the U.K. and Australia, with approximately 6,500 employees worldwide.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/edgewell-personal-care-appoints-latanya-langley-as-chief-legal-officer-301474669.html

SOURCE Edgewell Personal Care Company
By Gabriela Baczynska

KYIV (Reuters) - Nadiia Makarenko's son Anton disappeared seven years ago after leaving his home near Kyiv to fight Russia-backed rebels in eastern Ukraine. She still does not know if he is alive or dead.

Through tears, she recalls how Anton, then a 24-year-old sergeant, got a haircut and then made the 800 km (500 mile) journey to the Donbass region in early February 2015 to join the Ukrainian forces battling the rebels.

Nine days later, his army jeep came under fire near Debaltseve, site of a key battle in a war that has killed 15,000 people to date, according to Kyiv's estimates, and triggered several rounds of Western sanctions against Russia.

"They told us: 'Anton is not there'. That was it. 'Not there'. That's all. They didn't find him. They didn't get the vehicle back," Makarenko said.

Even as Russia masses more than 100,000 troops on its border with Ukraine and the West warns of a possible invasion, for people like Makarenko war has been a fact of life for years, and there is no end in sight.

In searching for her son, she has appealed to the army and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the government and the rights ombudsman. She has fought in courts to have Anton recognised as a prisoner of war and included in lists for possible prisoner exchanges.

She refused to identify a burned body presented to the family, saying the deceased man was of a different height and age than Anton, and had different teeth.

Makarenko, 63, still receives Anton's military salary of some $380 a month. According to one court ruling, he is being held in captivity. For the SBU, he is missing in action. For others, he is buried in eastern Ukraine.

"For me, it is not over," she said. "I still have this feeling that, suddenly, the door will open... I know he will walk through the door. Absolutely."

'THE WAR IS NOT OVER'

Fighting erupted in eastern Ukraine in 2014 after Russia, enraged by the toppling of a pro-Moscow president amid mass street protests in Kyiv, seized Ukraine's Crimean peninsula and threw its support behind Donbass separatists.

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The West slapped sanctions on Russia and has now threatened more measures if it invades Ukraine again. Moscow denies any such plan but is demanding security guarantees from the West, including a pledge never to allow Ukraine to join NATO.

Amid intense diplomacy aimed at preventing a full-blown war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has called for a new prisoner swap.

One of those freed that way in 2019 is Ukrainian film director Oleg Sentsov who was jailed for five years in Russia.

"Russia keeps on arresting and kidnapping our citizens. We have to fight for them... Releasing those detained and fighting Russian aggression are one and the same thing," he told Reuters.

Darya Morozova, who deals with prisoners' rights in rebel-held Donetsk, denied that they were maltreated, and said her side in the conflict was also seeking the release of 94 people held by Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, asked if Russia had information about Ukrainian soldiers or civilians held by the rebels and whether Moscow was willing to help organise an exchange, told Reuters:

"It's not like that. Russia has nothing to do with this in general. In Ukraine they have become used in recent years to attributing their own problems to Russia. We are used to that."

Ukraine's presidency, Defence Ministry and SBU did not reply to requests for comment, including on whether there were any Russians or rebels detained in Ukraine.

Ukraine's ombudsman says separatists are holding 314 Ukrainians, including 44 soldiers. A further 258 people are classified as missing in action in the east. Anton Makarenko is not among them.

Neither is Yurii Konovalov, a university teacher who was 54 when he joined a volunteer unit in eastern Ukraine. He was wounded on Aug. 29, 2014, as hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers were encircled and killed in Illovaisk. His fate remains unclear.

His sister, Tatiana Melnik, has since been supporting their elderly father, organising DNA tests and morgue visits, fending off swindlers offering dubious help to find him, and fighting authorities over alleged taxes he owed.

"As if our grief was not enough, we have to deal with such things as well," said Melnik, who five years ago also teamed up with other women sewing camouflage nets for the front lines.

Like Makarenko, she refuses to abandon hope.

"The war is not over yet. We don't have access to these lands yet," she said. "Who knows who we'll find there one day."

(Additional reporting by Natalia Zinets in Kyiv, Tom Balmforth in Moscow, Writing by Gabriela Baczynska; Editing by Gareth Jones)
As Danya Buseman and her husband DJ Buseman fielded questions from curious fourth-graders on Wednesday, some of the queries focused on small details. And then there were those that spanned a larger space.

Is it fun to farm, or is it hard? asked one student.

Its both, said DJ Buseman. There are good days and bad days  like everything. When the weathers good, its a lot better.

The Busemans, speaking to students in South Park Elementary School on Tuesday, are participating in Ag United for South Dakotas program. The programs been operating for about 10 years throughout the state, according to a news release from Ag United. It connects farmers with fourth-graders through a series of monthly videos along with in-person visits. Wednesdays session marked the first visit.

Heidi Zwinger, outreach director for Ag United for South Dakota, said the Adopt A Farmer program creates a way for the kids to find a little bit of a connection to agriculture in South Dakota and where their food comes from.

DJ Buseman is a fifth-generation farmer on a farm in Canistota focusing on cattle, sheep and grain. Danya Buseman works as training coordinator at Hefty Seed in Baltic. She also does work on the farm.

Throughout their presentations on Wednesday, the Busemans passed around some of the objects that emerged from the farm, such as wool or corn, for the students to touch.

The Busemans also talked about the way ordinary objects emerged from farm products such as soybeans.

These are some of the things that come from soybeans, Danya Buseman told the class. Weve got paint, weve got candles, tires that people use for their cars or bicycles 

She mentioned food, too, including baby formula.

Late in the session, the Busemans began discussing possible careers the students might pursue in agriculture. DJ Buseman said that his college degree was in animal science.

I came home to farm, but if Id wanted to, there are several other things I could have done, he said. A common thing would have been a livestock nutritionist. So, I could have been the person that put all these (foods) together.

The Busemans visited the combined fourth-grade classes of Ashley Holmgren and Becka Hewgley on Wednesday, touching on some concepts the students were exploring in different contexts.

In our reading curriculum this week we were talking about organic farming, so it tied in pretty well, Holmgren said, noting that learning about farm work also helped their science lessons.

After the session was over, Danya Buseman recalled some of the details that children seemed really to scrutinize.

The details they pay attention to are kind of amazing, she said, recalling some students interest in the process of wool packing.

She explained the process as taking place with "a big burlap sack that you hung down and would kind of jump into to pack it down.

DJ Buseman had described the process earlier, while the students were listening. Students became excited and said things like, That sounds fun."

Its not fun at all, DJ Buseman replied to them, eliciting chuckles throughout the room.

Theres now a machine they can use to do that, the Busemans explained.

After the session, DJ Buseman sounded a note of optimism regarding career prospects for would-be farmers  even those who havent grown up working on a farm.

I would advise them to try to work for a farmer, and maybe an opportunity would arise that way, he said. There may be other opportunities through (USDA) Farm Service Agency and other programs.

But the need for help that some farmers are experiencing could nudge the door open to young farmers, DJ Buseman suggested.

Farmers are getting to be an older generation, and farm help is hard to find right now, he said. Theres a demand for farm workers, and that could lead to something bigger and better.
CHICAGO and SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lauren Shurman, a lawyer with wide-ranging litigation experience in a number of industries, has joined Mayer Brown's Salt Lake City office as a partner in its Litigation & Dispute Resolution practice.

"We are pleased to add Lauren to our Salt Lake City office, which has been growing quickly with the addition of a number of lawyers since its opening," said Mayer Brown chair Jon Van Gorp.

Ms. Shurman's practice focuses on general commercial and employment litigation. Lauren has handled litigation and arbitration matters involving substantive issues ranging from shareholder disputes to claims for breach of contract, tortious interference, defamation, fraud, negligence, antitrust, legal malpractice, and negligent supervision, among others.

"Joining Mayer Brown in Salt Lake City is exciting and I'm thrilled to be a part of the firm," said Ms. Shurman. "Mayer Brown is committed to the region and I believe clients will benefit from the services of a global, integrated law firm."

About Mayer Brown

Mayer Brown is a distinctively global law firm, uniquely positioned to advise the world's leading companies and financial institutions on their most complex deals and disputes. With extensive reach across four continents, we are the only integrated law firm in the world with approximately 200 lawyers in each of the world's three largest financial centersNew York, London and Hong Kongthe backbone of the global economy. We have deep experience in high-stakes litigation and complex transactions across industry sectors, including our signature strength, the global financial services industry. Our diverse teams of lawyers are recognized by our clients as strategic partners with deep commercial instincts and a commitment to creatively anticipating their needs and delivering excellence in everything we do. Our "one-firm" cultureseamless and integrated across all practices and regionsensures that our clients receive the best of our knowledge and experience.

SOURCE Mayer Brown
A Juneau County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Madison for allegedly receiving child pornography.

The United States Attorneys Office for the Western District of Wisconsin announced that Kyle Orlando Luke, 26, of Lyndon Station is charged with receiving a visual depiction of child pornography after a grand jury in the Western District of Madison met Jan. 26.

According to the release, Luke allegedly received a video via Snapchat on Dec. 29, 2021 depicting a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

The charge comes after an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation and the Juneau County Sheriffs Office. Lukes prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Altman.

Luke faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years in prison if convicted.

Luke was previously convicted of second degree sexual assault of a child and child enticement in 2017 in a case out of Juneau County.
Although COVID-19 vaccine supplies to Africa have risen significantly, the continent is struggling to expand rollout, with only 11% of the population fully vaccinated. The vaccination rate needs to increase six times if the continent is to meet the 70% target set for the middle of this year. The World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and partners are launching a new initiative aimed at resolving bottlenecks.

To date, Africa has received more than 587 million vaccine doses, 58% through the COVAX Facility, 36 % from bilateral deals and 6% through Africa Vaccines Acquisition Trust (AVAT) of the African Union. In January 2022, 96 million doses were shipped to Africa, which is more than double that of six months ago. Increasing deliveries have eased shortages and turned the spotlight on the need for countries to rapidly ramp up vaccine rollout.

The world has finally heard our calls. Africa is now accessing the vaccines it has demanded for far too long. This is a dose of hope for this year, said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. However, a dependable pipeline must go hand in hand with operational funding to move doses out of depots and into peoples arms. WHO and partners are working with countries to urgently fix operational challenges including supporting health workers to speed up vaccine delivery, save lives and beat back this pandemic.

Currently 6 million people are vaccinated on average every week in Africa, and this number needs to increase to 36 million to reach the 70% target agreed globally. Although Mauritius and Seychelles have already met the 70% target and seven African countries have vaccinated 40% of their population, vaccination rates on the continent remain low. Twenty-one countries have fully vaccinated less than 10% of their populations, while 16 have vaccinated less than 5% and three have fully vaccinated less than 2%.

The slow uptake in COVID-19 vaccines in Africa requires global partners and countries to reset their programmes. WHO, UNICEF, IFRC and other partners are scaling up efforts to overcome hurdles, improve coordination and speed up vaccination drives. They have called for support to ensure vaccines are administered as quickly as possible upon arrival to avoid expired vaccines.

UNICEF is at the forefront of the largest, most sophisticated ground operation in the history of immunization  and it will take a response of the same magnitude to turn vaccines into vaccinations, said Mr Mohamed M. Malick Fall, UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern & Southern Africa. Richer countries must not only ensure they are donating vaccine doses that have adequate shelf lives but also contribute funding for in-country operational costs.

Data reported to WHO from 40 countries finds that there is a US$ 1.29 billion gap in funding for operational costs.

Late last year, WHO, in partnership with UNICEF, international and national partners, including ministries of health conducted surge missions to countries in Africa with the aim of understanding challenges and unlocking bottlenecks. Based on the mission findings, the partners have launched an initiative to support countries to reach the 70% global target.

WHO and partners are deploying, technical experts to 20 countries with significant challenges in vaccine deployment to form special support teams for three to six months and in some cases possibly up to a year. Already 50 experts have been deployed. They are working under the leadership of the ministries of health to strengthen partner coordination, logistical and financial planning, including microplanning, surveillance of adverse events following immunization, as well as the management of data on vaccination uptake and vaccine stock. Engaging and empowering communities so they follow key public health measures and support vaccination is important. Under the leadership of governments, partners are working with communities to strengthen trust and confidence in vaccination.

This year, a lot more needs to be done to gain communities trust. When communities are in the drivers seat, they become vital contributors to finding solutions to the outbreaks of diseases. In South Sudan, community-based Red Cross volunteers tackled the problem of slow vaccine uptake, through improved community trust, and helped prevent vaccine wastage, said Mr Mohammed Omer Mukhier, IFRC Regional Director for Africa.

The continent is now emerging from its fourth pandemic wave driven by the Omicron variant. Cases have declined for the third straight week. Over the past week, cases dropped by 15% compared with the week before, while deaths fell slightly by 5%. Despite the overall decline in deaths in the continent, North Africa reported a 25% rise in weekly fatalities. So far Africa has recorded 10.8 million cases and over 239 000 deaths cumulatively.

The omicron variant and its three sub lineages have been reported in 37 countries in Africa  of these the highest number of cases has been the original BA.1 sub lineage with more than 5300 cases in 20 countries. In addition, there have been more than 200 cases of BA.2 the so-called stealth omicron sub lineage in five countries and 43 cases of BA.3 in three countries.

Dr Moeti, Mr Fall and Mr Mukhier spoke today during a virtual press conference.

Also on hand from the WHO Regional Office for Africa to respond to questions were Dr Benido Impouma, Director, Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases Cluster, Dr Richard Mihigo, Coordinator, Immunization and Vaccines Development Programme, Dr Nicksy Gumede-Moeletsi, Regional Virologist, and Dr Thierno Balde, Regional COVID-19 Incident Manager.

 WHO Africa News
New Delhi, Feb 3 : A leading US Senator has criticised China for selecting a soldier engaged in Galwan Valley clashes with Indian troops to promote the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022.

China has selected Qi Fabao, a regimental commander in the People's Liberation Army, who was seriously wounded during June 15, 2020 border clash with Indian troops in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, as one of the torchbearers.

Senator Jim Risch, a Republican who is a ranking member of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, called the move "shameful" and said that the US will continue to support the sovereignty of India.

"It's shameful that Beijing chose a torchbearer for the Olympics 2022 who's part of the military command that attacked India in 2020 and is implementing genocide against the Uyghurs. The US will continue to support Uyghur freedoms and the sovereignty of India," Risch said on Twitter.

Beijing kicked off a three-day Olympic torch relay with Qi as torchbearers, as per a report in China's Global Times newspaper.

Qi took the torch from China's four-time short track speed skating gold medalist Wang Meng. Being held in between Covid-19 outbreaks in China, the Winter Olympics is scheduled to start on February 4.

The Olympic flame was flown in from Greece and will travel to various parts of the country before lighting the Olympic cauldron as a part of the opening ceremony.

Many countries have decided to boycott the Olympics amid Chinese expansionist policy and human rights violation in Uyghurs.

Amid this, an Australian newspaper, the Klaxon, claimed that Chinese People's Liberation Army lost 42 soldiers, not four during Galwan Valley clashes with India troops in eastern Ladakh.

However, the Indian security establishment remains silent over the claims.

The report, filed by Editor Anthony Klan, bases the claims citing report of a group of social media researchers.

The newspaper states that evidence provided by the group of social media researchers, which The Klaxon has independently built on, appears to support claims that China's casualties extended well beyond the four soldiers named by Beijing.
WEST COVINA, Calif., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Red Ribbon Bakeshop is officially opening its doors in Oxnard, California, on February 4, 2022, at 8AM PST. The bakery brand specializes in sweet and savory baked goods inspired by authentic Filipino flavors and ingredients. Fans who grew up with the brand can look forward to seeing their favorite bakery treats on the menu, while first-timers are invited to taste Red Ribbon's unique line-up of delicious bakery offerings that they won't find anywhere else.

Mango Supreme Cake (PRNewsfoto/Red Ribbon Bakeshop Inc)

Since 1960, the Filipino community in Oxnard has grown from a few dozen homes on San Juan Street commonly referred to as "Little Manila", into a burgeoning community, making Oxnard the perfect spot for Red Ribbon's newest store location. Located at 1941 N. Rose Avenue, Suite 680, Oxnard, CA 93036, the new Red Ribbon Bakeshop will be open seven days a week, from 8AM  9PM daily. This marks the brand's 22nd bakery in California and its 35th to open in the U.S.

Butter Mamons for the Early Birds

A special offer awaits Red Ribbon's earliest visitors during opening weekend. The first 100 customers who spend over $50 will receive a free bundle of six Butter Mamons, Red Ribbon's top selling pastry.

Red Ribbon is best known for its eye-catching cakes and indulgent array of sweet and savory pastries which can elevate both special occasions and everyday snacking. For those craving an authentic taste of the Philippines, Red Ribbon features several options that showcase the brand's unique cultural heritage and culinary roots, including these bestsellers:

Shareable Cakes

Mango Supreme Cake  The dessert that put Red Ribbon on the map. This signature product is made with the Philippines' best mangoes, considered to be the sweetest in the world. It features three layers of moist white chiffon cake filled with cream and a golden, mango-filled glaze. It is finished with a generous amount of mango chunks and topped with a maraschino cherry.

 The dessert that put Red Ribbon on the map. This signature product is made with best mangoes, considered to be the sweetest in the world. It features three layers of moist white chiffon cake filled with cream and a golden, mango-filled glaze. It is finished with a generous amount of mango chunks and topped with a maraschino cherry. Ube Overload Cake  This iconic Filipino confection is known for its vibrant purple hue. Its unique coloring comes from its star ingredient: real Philippine ube halaya (purple yam), a flavor that has gained mainstream popularity in recent years. The cake is finished with beautiful white cream frosting rosettes and bright purple ube cake crumbs.

 This iconic Filipino confection is known for its vibrant purple hue. Its unique coloring comes from its star ingredient: real Philippine ube halaya (purple yam), a flavor that has gained mainstream popularity in recent years. The cake is finished with beautiful white cream frosting rosettes and bright purple ube cake crumbs. Yema Caramel Cake  Perfect for those who love the smoothness of caramel combined with a bit of crunch, this Filipino favorite is made of a soft, moist white chiffon cake filled and covered with yema (Philippine custard) caramel filling and finished with toasted cashew nuts.

Snackable Pastries

Butter Mamon  This exquisite pastry provides the perfect combination of moist chiffon and 100% butter for a melt-in-your-mouth treat. Not too sweet and delightfully tender, it's the all-time favorite of loyal Red Ribbon fans. Also available in Ube, Mocha and Cheesy flavors.

 This exquisite pastry provides the perfect combination of moist chiffon and 100% butter for a melt-in-your-mouth treat. Not too sweet and delightfully tender, it's the all-time favorite of loyal Red Ribbon fans. Also available in Ube, Mocha and Cheesy flavors. Cheesy Ensaimada  Red Ribbon's signature pastry offers soft, moist bread topped with butter, sugar, and cheesy deliciousness for the perfect sweet and savory flavor combination.

 Red Ribbon's signature pastry offers soft, moist bread topped with butter, sugar, and cheesy deliciousness for the perfect sweet and savory flavor combination. Chicken Empanada  This savory pastry is generously filled with tender chicken and a unique blend of spices and deep-fried to a crisp golden brown  a fan-favorite.

For those who prefer the familiar flavors of chocolate and mocha, Red Ribbon offers several stand-out options, including:

Black Forest Cake  This one's for the chocoholics! Layers of liqueur-moistened chocolate cake, brimming with maraschino cherries and cream, rich chocolate shavings and chocolate curls.

 This one's for the chocoholics! Layers of liqueur-moistened chocolate cake, brimming with maraschino cherries and cream, rich chocolate shavings and chocolate curls. Mocha Flan  The perfect combination of cake and custard. This rich mocha chiffon cake is topped with delicious, creamy leche flan.

 The perfect combination of cake and custard. This rich mocha chiffon cake is topped with delicious, creamy leche flan. Choco Mocha Crunch  Brimming with both chocolate and coffee flavors, this chocolate chiffon cake is filled with honeycomb candy in every layer; finished with rich mocha cream and topped with more honeycomb candy and chocolate shavings.

"Red Ribbon's delectable cakes are the perfect finishing touch for gatherings or special occasions and the single-serve pastries are ideal when you're craving a mid-week pick-me-up," said Agnes Briones, Business Unit Head, Red Ribbon Bakeshop, Inc. "Whether you prefer sweet, or savory treats we have something for every palate and are excited to invite the Oxnard community to try our bakery favorites."

The Oxnard location has cafe-style seating for those who want to enjoy their bakery treats right on the spot and folks on-the-go can order through the following online channels: the Red Ribbon ordering app (available for download at the App Store and Google Play), the Red Ribbon website (redribbonbakeshop.us) and the DoorDash delivery platform.

Founded in the Philippines over 40 years ago, Red Ribbon's sweet success story began with a single mission: to create delicious and beautiful cakes that make every family celebration truly special. Since then, the brand has expanded its offerings to include both single-serve dessert items and an array of sweet and savory pastry treats intended for everyday snacking.

For more information about Red Ribbon Bakeshop's U.S. locations, featured menu items, and nationwide shipping details, please visit redribbonbakeshop.us; Red Ribbon fans also can follow the brand's Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest news, including new products, upcoming store openings and special offers.

About Red Ribbon Bakeshop

Since being founded in 1979, Red Ribbon Bakeshop Inc. has become one of the largest and fastest-growing bakeshops in the Philippines. For the past 40 years the brand has offered superior tasting cakes and pastries and has proved itself as a staple for most Filipino families to mark every special occasion, celebration, and milestone.

Today, the international bakery brand boasts over 500 total locations and over 30 bakeshops across the U.S. with locations in California, Nevada, Washington, Hawaii, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Texas, Illinois, and Florida. The Los Angeles Times has twice cited the brand's cakes as the "Best of L.A." and Eater also named Red Ribbon Bakeshop among the best restaurants for ube desserts in Las Vegas.

Most recently, Red Ribbon entered the "Top 500 Chain Restaurants in the U.S." list, which is published annually by leading foodservice research and consulting firm, Technomic. Additionally, Red Ribbon's California-based manufacturing facility recently received its Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification from SGS, the global benchmark for quality and integrity. HACCP is an internationally recognized process control system that identifies where hazards might occur in the food production process and puts into place the safety measures that a facility should take to prevent the hazards from occurring.

About Jollibee Group

Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC, also known as Jollibee Group) is one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world. It operates in 34 countries, with over 5,800 stores globally with branches in the Philippines, United States, Canada, the People's Republic of China, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Vietnam, Brunei, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Indonesia, Costa Rica, Egypt, Panama, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, and India.

Jollibee Group has eight wholly-owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger); six franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, PHO24, and Yoshinoya in the Philippines; Dunkin' and Tim Ho Wan in certain territories in China); 80% ownership of The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf; and 60% ownership in the SuperFoods Group that owns Highlands Coffee and PHO24.

Jollibee Group, through its subsidiary Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL) owns 90% participating interest in Titan Dining LP, a private equity fund that ultimately owns the Tim Ho Wan brand. It also has a joint venture with the THW Group to open and operate THW restaurants in Mainland China. Jollibee Group also has a business venture with award-winning Chef Rick Bayless for Tortazo, a Mexican fast-casual restaurant business in the United States. Recently, the Jollibee Group announced that it will acquire 51% ownership of Milksha, a popular Taiwanese bubble tea brand.

Jollibee Group was named the Philippines' most admired company by the Asian Wall Street Journal for ten years. It was also honored as one of Asia's Fab 50 Companies and among the World's Best Employers and World's Top Female-Friendly Companies by Forbes. In 2020, Gallup awarded the Jollibee Group with the Exceptional Workplace Award, making it the first Philippine-based company to receive the distinction.

Jollibee Foods Corporation has grown brands that bring delightful dining experiences to its customers worldwide, thus spreading the joy of eating to everyone.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

SOURCE Red Ribbon Bakeshop
Hyderabad, Feb 3 : Suryadevara Naga Vamsi, producer of 'Bheemla Nayak' starring Pawan Kalyan and Rana Daggubati, has said the film's release, which has been much-delayed, depends on Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Reddy.

Speaking at the 'DJ Tillu' theatrical trailer launch, Naga Vamsi said: "You must ask Jagan Garu about this. Whenever the AP government removes 50 per cent occupancy in the state, movies will start releasing." The producer was referring to the Covid protocol followed by the state government, limiting occupancy in cinema theatres to 50 per cent. He made his statement regarding the chief minister when he was quizzed on whether the film will be released on February 25 or April 1.

Tollywood and the state government have been at loggerheads on a number of issues, from ticket pricing to Covid protocols, and Naga Vamsi's comments are being seen in the state in the backdrop of the simmering tension.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Patriot Battery Metals Inc. (the Company or Patriot) (CSE: PMET) (OTCQB: PMETF) (FSE: R9GA) is pleased to announce the assay results from the third and fourth holes of its inaugural drill program at the Companys Corvette-FCI Property (the Property or "Project"), located in the James Bay Region of Quebec. The third drill hole (CF21-003) targeted the CV5 Spodumene Pegmatite outcrop from the opposite side, on the same section, as the first drill hole (CF21-001). The fourth drill hole (CF21-004) targeted the CV6 Pegmatite outcrop, which is located approximately 550 m along strike west-southwest of drill holes CF21-001 and 003, and approximately 650 m along strike from drill hole CF21-002. The CV5-6 pegmatites form part of the more than 25 km long CV Lithium Trend that is host to multiple spodumene pegmatite occurrences. Drill core sample assay highlights from the third and fourth holes of the 2021 program are outlined in Table 1 and include:

CF21-003  1.25% Li 2 O and 194 ppm Ta 2 O 5 , over 58.1 m (from 23.0 m to 81.1 m), including, 1.80% Li 2 O and 264 ppm Ta 2 O 5 over 33.0 m (from 27.0 m to 60.0 m)

(from 23.0 m to 81.1 m), including, CF21-004  0.64% Li 2 O and 223 ppm Ta 2 O 5 over 63.6 m (from 38.0 m to 101.6 m), including 1.13% Li 2 O and 180 ppm Ta 2 O 5 over 30.0 m (from 41.0 m to 71.0 m), including, 1.69% Li 2 O and 210 ppm Ta 2 O 5 over 10.0 m (from 41.0 m to 51.0 m)



(from 38.0 m to 101.6 m), including

Blair Way, Company President and Director, comments: This third drill hole gives us a clear insight as to the thickness of the CV5 Pegmatite as indicated from cross-sections. The coming winter drill program will focus on the shallow glacial lake between CV5 and CV1 to better determine the dimensions, depth extent, and potential for pegmatite at this location. The initial drilling and geological modelling have made it clear that the true thickness of the CV5 pegmatite is significantly larger than the surface outcrop.

The third drill hole of the program (CF21-003) was collared approximately 20 m from the CV5 Pegmatite outcrop, on its north side. As the first two drill holes (CF21-001 and 002), collared on the southside of CV5, indicated the pegmatite had a conformable strike; however, a non-conformable dip to the local geological fabric, the third hole was designed to constrain the dip direction at this location. Drill hole CF21-003 returned a well mineralized pegmatite interval assaying 1.25% Li 2 O and 194 ppm Ta 2 O 5 over 58.1 m, including 1.80% Li 2 O and 264 ppm Ta 2 O 5 over 33.0 m. The drill hole indicates a moderate to steep dip to the north-northwest at this location, and infers a true width of the pegmatite to approximate 60 m. However, additional drilling, planned to commence this quarter (see news release dated January 20, 2022), is required to establish the true orientation of the pegmatite. Additional assay highlights are presented below in Table 1 and Figure 1. A cross-section of the pegmatite along drill holes CF21-001 and 003 is presented in Figure 3.

Table 1: Core sample assay highlights from drill holes CF21-001, 002, 003 at the CV5 Pegmatite and 004 at CV6:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a9af2650-2c07-4b7f-b664-5dce0a98209c

Core sample assay highlights from drill holes CF21-001, 002, 003 at the CV5 Pegmatite and 004 at CV6

The fourth drill hole of the program (CF21-004) was collared approximately 20 m from the CV6 Pegmatite outcrop, on its south side, approximately 550 m west-southwest and along strike of drill holes CF21-001 and 003, and returned a pegmatite intersection of 63.6 m assaying 0.64% Li 2 O and 223 ppm Ta 2 O 5 , including 30 m at 1.13% Li 2 O and 180 ppm Ta 2 O 5 . With over 223 ppm Ta 2 O 5 across the entire length of pegmatite at this location, the potential for a highly fractionated pegmatite with discrete zones of unique mineralization is implied for the CV Lithium Trend.

Geological modelling and the magnitude of drill intersections suggests that the CV5 and CV6 pegmatites are connected and may form part of a singular, larger pegmatite body. Additional drilling is required to confirm the Companys interpretation and is a primary objective of the 2022 drill campaign (see news release dated January 20, 2022). To date, four (4) drill holes at the CV5-6 pegmatites have been completed with analytical results for all four (4) drill holes now reported. Coupled with the surface sampling data, the analytical results indicate a pegmatite body with significant lateral and depth potential and collectively emphasize the size of the mineralizing system present within this portion of the overall CV Lithium Trend. It is anticipated that drilling throughout 2022 will confirm the magnitude of the CV5 and CV6 pegmatites, as well as the numerous other lithium pegmatites found throughout the Property.

About the CV Lithium Trend

The CV Lithium Trend is an emerging spodumene pegmatite district discovered by the Company in 2017 and spans the FCI West, FCI East, and Corvette claim blocks. The core area includes an approximate 2 km long corridor, which is part of the more than 25-km long and Property-wide CV Lithium Trend. It consists of numerous spodumene pegmatite occurrences, which include the CV1, CV2, CV3, CV5, CV6, and CV7 pegmatites, highlighted by the CV5 Pegmatite  a large (~220 m long and 20-40 m wide), well-mineralized outcrop with drill intercepts of 155.1 m at 0.94% Li 2 O and 117 ppm Ta 2 O 5 (CF21-002), and 58.1 m at 1.25% Li 2 O and 194 ppm Ta 2 O 5 (CF21-003). Drilling indicates a pegmatite body approximating 60 m in true width, and therefore considerably larger than that observed in outcrop. The high number of well-mineralized pegmatites in this core area of the trend indicates a strong potential for a series of relatively closely spaced/stacked, sub-parallel, and sizable spodumene-bearing pegmatite bodies, with significant lateral and depth extent, to be present.

Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QAQC)

A Quality Assurance / Quality Control protocol following industry best practices was incorporated into the program and included systematic insertion of quartz blanks and certified reference materials into sample batches, as well as collection of quarter-core duplicates, at a rate of approximately 5%. The Company also intends to submit approximately 4-5% of the core samples for check analysis at a secondary lab. A total of 1,766 samples, including QAQC, have been submitted for geochemical analysis to the primary lab.

All pegmatite encountered in drill holes CF21-001, 002, 003, and 004 was sampled, including book-end sampling of adjacent rock, for a total of 613 samples including QAQC, and were shipped to Activation Laboratories in Ancaster, ON for analysis. Core samples collected were submitted for multi-element analysis (including lithium) by four-acid digestion with ICP-OES finish (package 1F2) and tantalum by INAA (code 5B), with any samples returning >8,000 ppm lithium by 1F2 then reanalysed for lithium by code 8-4 Acid ICP-OES Assay. Industry standard drill core sample preparation was completed and was comprised of crushing to 80% passing 10 mesh, followed by a 250 g riffle split and pulverizing to 95% passing 105  (package RX1).

The Company notes that it carried out its field programs while adhering to all federal, provincial, and regional restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and successfully navigated the process to enter the James Bay Region to complete its planned field activities. Mineral exploration has been recognized as an essential service in Canada and the Province of Quebec. The Company is also pleased to report that no cases of COVID-19 were documented with respect to the 2021 exploration program.

Figure 1: Aerial view of the CV5-6 pegmatites, looking north-west

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d5a53c15-f9b3-4042-84d9-8ad4433d01bb



Figure 2: Preliminary cross-section of drill holes CF21-001 and 003

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/47583d13-4fc4-43ec-82d5-794f701f89a7

Figure 3: Drill hole locations  CV5-6 pegmatites

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/855ad32c-7557-4598-8ddb-10569faee2e5

Qualified Person

Darren L. Smith, M.Sc., P.Geo., Vice President of Exploration of the Company, a registered permit holder with the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed the technical information in this news release.

About Patriot Battery Metals Inc.

Patriot Battery Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and development of mineral projects containing battery, base, and precious metals.

The Companys flagship asset is the Corvette-FCI Property which includes the wholly owned Corvette claim block, and the FCI East and West claim blocks held under Option from O3 Mining Inc., located in the James Bay Region of Quebec. The claim blocks are contiguous, and host significant lithium potential highlighted by the assay results of the first drill hole (CF21-001) completed by the Company on the Property, which returned a 146.8 m interval of near continuous pegmatite, assaying 0.93% Li2O and 114 ppm Ta2O5, including 1.09% Li2O and 108 ppm Ta2O5 over 73.0 m, and 1.04% Li2O and 145 ppm Ta2O5 over 54.6 m. Additionally, the Property hosts the Golden Gap Trend with grab samples of 3.1 to 108.9 g/t Au from outcrop and 10.5 g/t Au over 7 m in drill hole, and the Maven Trend with 8.15% Cu, 1.33 g/t Au, and 171 g/t Ag in outcrop.

The Company also holds the Freeman Creek Property in Idaho, which hosts two prospective gold prospects - the Gold Dyke Prospect with a 2020 drill hole intersection of 4.11 g/t Au and 33.0 g/t Ag over 12 m, and the Carmen Creek Prospect with surface sample results including 25.5 g/t Au, 159 g/t Ag, and 9.75% Cu.

The Companys other assets include the Pontax Lithium-Gold Property, QC; the Golden Silica Property, BC; and the Hidden Lake Lithium Property, NWT, where the Company maintains a 40% interest, as well as several other assets in Canada.

For further information, please contact us at info@patriotbatterymetals.com Tel: +1 (778) 945-2950 , or visit www.patriotbatterymetals.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

BLAIR WAY ADRIAN LAMOUREUX Blair Way, President & Director Adrian Lamoureux, CEO & Director

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information



Statements included in this announcement, including statements concerning our plans, intentions, and expectations, which are not historical in nature are intended to be, and are hereby identified as, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified by words including anticipates, believes, intends, estimates, expects and similar expressions. The Company cautions readers that forward-looking statements, including without limitation those relating to the Companys future operations and business prospects, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release
Why are most Christian men living sexually immoral lifestyles?

The Reality Is

There are threats that face the Christian Church, and the cause of those threats is sin. Sin affects every member of the Christian faith, no matter the status. Sin causes us to stumble and sets us back in our cause for Christ. Ultimately, it should remind us how desperate we need the forgiveness and guidance of God.

But which sin seems to set us back the most? What are we glossing over, pushing under the rug, and pretending isnt there? That, my friends, is sexual sin. In 2016, Josh McDowell told CBN News, pornography is probably the greatest threat to the cause of Christ in the history of the world. Wow. Thats a strong statement to make.

Churches should be pushing the alarm buttonnot the snooze button! The sad reality is we are not hearing the alarm because most Christian men are in the clutches of this sin. Barna Research Group and Josh McDowell Ministries commissioned a studyfound that the number of Christian men who view pornography nearly mirrors that of non-Christian men. How can this be?

Factors

How has the Church suddenly become a fruitless and passive representation of God in this area? There should be alarms ringing left and right about this topic. Yes, there are certainly pastors and leaders out there addressing it and hundreds of books have been written on it. However, instead of winning against this sin, were backsliding.

A recent Lifeway Research poll found that 81 percent of Americans said they were concerned with the declining moral behavior of America. If God calls and equips the Church to be set apart from this world and its lusts, why are most Christian men living sexually immoral lifestyles?

There are a couple of primary factors that contribute to this decline in morals and moral behavior. First, the world is constantly advancing the availability, accessibility, and acceptance of sexual immorality. Over half of men aged 18-49 label pornography as morally acceptable. Whats even more disturbing is that 50% of those who claimed their religion was important to them, also said porn was morally acceptable.

The second factor contributing to this moral decline is that Christians frequently underscore Gods Word and the role that He plays in the battle between the flesh and the spirit. Most of the sermons and books today focus on what you need to do to become free  not how God has a role and provision for us in this battle.

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. (2 Corinthians 10:4-6)

Its time to fight

As the Body of Christ, we cannot allow this moral decline to continue. We must sound the alarm.

Did you know that sexual sin is different than all other sins? The Bible tells us, Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he commits sexual immorality sins against his own body (1 Corinthians 6:18). Sexual sin incapacitates us both spiritually and physically. Satan knows this and has been using this sin against man from the very beginning. He knows we were created as sexual beings (Genesis 2:24) and our sexual immorality incapacitates us. He also knows sin causes us to hide from God (Genesis 3:10) and he specifically targets Christians.

The Church has been putting forth unbiblical tactics far too long and its time for the Church to stand up and fight the war of sexual immorality.

Adapted from J.S. Sheltons book Unmuzzled: Escaping sexual sin, Satans grip on men. For more information about J.S. Shelton and Unmuzzled please visit: https://unmuzzledmen.com/
Bhubaneswar, Feb 3 : Look Out circular has been issued against managing director of Sambandh Finserve Private Limited, Deepak Kindo for his alleged involvement in a fraud case of over Rs 100 crore, Odisha police said on Thursday.

On the request of the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Odisha police, the Bureau of Immigration (BoI) has issued the Look Out circular against Kindo, the officials said.

The Odisha police, on January 30, had arrested Amrita Kindo, another accused in the case and wife of Deepak in this case. However, the prime accused Deepak Kindo is absconding, evading arrest.

So, the Look Out circular was issued to alert immigration check posts at airports/seaports etc to prevent the absconding accused person leaving the country and alerting law enforcement agencies, the EOW officials said.

While investigating a Rs 5 crore loan fraud case registered against Sambandh Finserve Pvt Ltd, the EOW found that the firm had collected over Rs 100 crore from various finance institutions and misappropriated the same.

As per the complaint, the accused Deepak had fraudulently availed a loan to the tune of Rs 5 crore from Annapurna Finance Pvt Ltd on the basis of forged documents and misappropriated the same without refunding the amount.

During course of investigation, the police found that the accused company (Sambandh Finserve Pvt Ltd), during the period from 2015-2020, in a similar manner had raised funds of more than Rs 100 crore from different investors/ lenders like DCB Bank, SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India), BOPA PTE Ltd (a Singapore-based company) and DIA Vikash Capital Pvt Ltd etc and misappropriated the same by diverting the amount to their sister concerns.

The loan amounts were diverted to different sister concerns of Sambandh Finserve Pvt Ltd including Diya Dairy Agro Processor Pvt Ltd, whose director is Amrita Kindo, the police further said.

The police have also said that anyone giving credible information leading to the arrest of the accused will be suitably rewarded. The information can be given on the Mobile number 9437444870. The name/details of the informer will be kept secret, they said.
Chennai, Feb 3 : The police in Myladuthurai in Tamil Nadu arrested two priests for stealing the silver cover of a palanquin of the temple. The palanquin carries the deity and the incident occurred at the Parimalanathar temple at Thiruindalur in Myladuthurai district.

The arrested priests are R. Srinivasa Ranga Battar( 53) and V. Muralidhara Dikshithar (58). The duo was arrested on Thursday.

The arrests were made following a complaint by a Chennai resident, Venkitaraman. The Idol Wing of the CB-CID police led by Assistant Commissioner, P. Rajaraman arrested the two.

It is alleged that the two priests tried to make a new silver cover and take the original one. Police officers said that the antique value of the old silver cover would be much more and that would be the reason for stealing it.

In 2014, the silver cover went missing from the temple and a complaint was lodged by the officials of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment( HR&CE) department at the Myladuthurai police station.

However, there was no progress in the case but a devotee named Venkitaraman from Chennai pursued the case. Police said that the two priests tried to make a new silver cover to replace the old one only after the issue was taken up by the devotee.

The idol wing of the Tamil Nadu police took over the case on February 1 and found that Srinivasa Ranga Battar in connivance with Muralidhara Dikshithar had stolen the silver cover and when the issue became hot, tried to replace the old silver cover with a new one.

Assistant Commissioner P. Rajaraman told IANS, "The case did not have proper leads as it was registered in 2014 and was not pursued. We connected the missing dots and found that the silver covers were stolen by someone and on proper investigation, it was found that the two priests were involved in it."
Power tools buzz at the beachfront Amarula Hotel in Palma, as workers finish clearing up and repairing the damage from one of Mozambique's bloodiest jihadists assaults nearly a year ago.

In March 2021, around 200 people -- mostly civil servants and foreigners working on nearly gas projects -- hid in the hotel as Islamic State-linked insurgents overran the coastal town, murdering dozens during days of fighting.

Some of the guests tried to escape to the beach. Twelve decapitated bodies were later found in front of the building.

Now, signs of the horror have largely been washed away -- with neatly manicured tropical lawns, a sparkling blue pool, and freshly renovated rooms, the hotel's management is hoping to woo back visitors.

Manager Timothy Christian Robbins said he has been on site since November to decide whether the facility can re-open.

He said a relaunch would be seen as a vote of confidence, a signal that "the government and the forces here are giving people the protection and the safety assurance that they can come back and re-establish themselves."

With the help of 1,000 Rwandan troops deployed in July, the Mozambican government was able to reclaim Palma.

Rwandan soldiers, armed with rocket-propelled grenades, still patrol the once-deserted streets.

"People are going back to work, reopening their businesses. Markets and local transport are running. The local economy is picking up," said senior police superintendent Justin Rukara, who leads the Rwandan forces in Palma.

Some basic goods are available once more -- fresh produce, dried fish, and toiletries are neatly arrayed under makeshift shelters on the sandy roads.

"The security situation is much better now. Thank God! After the arrival of the Rwandans, things got much better," said Rachid Adreman, one of the market traders.

"Business has picked up again. But the problem is that money is not circulating. The banks are still closed and people do not have access to their accounts. It takes a long time to sell our goods."

Torched buildings, car wrecks

The road to the beach is still dotted with the wreckage of vehicles that were unable to escape the onslaught last year.

People who fled their homes are living on the ocean front in shelters built from palm fronds, plastic tarpaulin or sheet metal they managed to salvage.

The settlement has started to feel more permanent.

A small market has emerged, where vendors decant jugs of cooking oil into repurposed Fanta bottles in quantities small enough for the desperately poor to afford.

Fishermen tend to their nets while their catch dries in the sun. Children splash in the waters of the low tide, while small radios play music.

About 80 kilometres (50 miles) south, Mocimboa da Praia, the town where the jihadist group first launched its attacks in October 2017 and was retaken by the Rwanda and Mozambican troops in August, is still a ghost town.

A church lies in ruin. The maternity clinic is abandoned, strewn with debris inside.

Almost every building was torched, some beyond recognition. Bicycles, buses and even armoured vehicles sit rusting.

The 16-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC) also sent troops in August to support Mozambique. American and European military trainers are also there.

With all of this international support, Mozambique claims to have retaken Mocimboa da Praia, which the insurgents once used as a base.

But few are brave enough to return here, or to take their chances on the largely unpatrolled roads across Mozambique's vast, impoverished north.

Violence is nothing new to the region. A rebellion raged for 16 years, and a 1992 peace deal failed to bring a full peace -- much less prosperity.
Lets put our allegiance in the right place

In the fall of 2013, it began innocently enough. A young writer for GQ magazine was quizzing me on my views about various topics. A quick glance around my living room should have been enough to tell him what I was about. Miss Kays Bible verses hung on slabs of wood and my well-worn Bible was held together with duct tape. It was obvious. We read and believe in God's Word. If God speaks it, we always go with what He says.

So, when the reporter asked my opinion about homosexuality, I didnt actually give my opinion. I simply gave him the Bible. From memory, I quoted:

Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 6:910).

Thats all there was to it. But he didnt know it was Scripture. In the reporters mind, I immediately became a New Age neanderthal. When his story broke, within a single hour I was in the national spotlight in a way I had never anticipated. It was all over the news and the internet.

The opinion of a minister on Fox News was something like, What do you expect from some redneck living in the swamps of Louisiana? Hes certainly no theologian!

He didnt know I had quoted a Bible verse, either. It would be at least two weeks before the media figured out where my words were from.

I had also included verse 11 in my response to the reporter:

And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

I spent several hours showing the young man around my land, all the while preaching the Gospel to him. I went to great lengths to share the message of Jesus and how all sin can be eradicated by simply putting our faith in Christ.

He wanted to cancel me, but I only wanted to introduce him to the one who could give him eternal life.

I was fired for quoting that verse from the Bible. The price I paid for telling the truth about Gods will for humanity was a cool 10 million dollars. But I would do it all again. Jesus paid with His life for telling the truth. The only thing it cost me was a few bucks.

I dont believe the term cancel culture was used then. At the time, we just figured the thought police were ramping up. Whats going on today is a much more powerful force.

Power brokers in academia, the media, politics, and the corporate world have amassed an incredible amount of power to squash anyone who doesnt toe the line.

We may not win the public relations war by convincing the masses to love (or even like) us, but we can win the personal war  the real war  by not falling for strategies intended to intimidate us to submit to the god of political correctness.

In spite of the tremendous pressure exerted on me to take back my words, I didnt. I could not take it back even if I wanted to, because those werent my words at all. How could I apologize for quoting the Creator?

As a result of my experience being the object of a desire to cancel me, I speak with authority on the goals and strategies of the cancel culture.

But my first authority comes from being well familiar with Gods Word. I know him and what he says not because Im smarter than the average person or because I have a special conduit to the Almighty, but because his truth is accessible to everyone, even to the members of the cancel culture crowd.

Our real problem in America isnt political or religious, at least not in the sense that religion has come to mean allegiance to an institutional denomination. Those are just symptoms of a much more serious disease.

Our real problem is spiritual, rooted in our nations drift away from the knowledge of God. Too many of us have abandoned the love of God. As Paul said in Romans, too many have embraced the idea that the knowledge of God just isnt worth it (1:1832).

As a result, I have zero hope we can correct what is wrong by electing the right person to lead us. Yet, I am still hopeful that God will lead our nation to bow down before him again.

People have been looking to the right and to the left for someone to restore order to the chaos. They dont consider there could be a third alternative, and it isnt in the middle. My belief, supported by Scripture, is that the only man worthy of adoration and praise is Jesus Christ.

We need to stop looking left and right. The right and left extremes make the same mistake: they place their hope in human institutions and humanistic reasoning. Both are flawed for the same reason: no God.

We need to look up instead. Americas greatest problem is not political but spiritual. If our problem is spiritual, then the solution must be spiritual too.

Im an American patriot, but my true patriotism is with the only kingdom that can never be destroyed: the kingdom of the Son of God (Dan. 2:44).

I love America. But Im standing, first and foremost, with Gods kingdom and no one, from either the Right or the Left, will ever shake me on this. I pledge allegiance to the unshakable kingdom  always.

Adapted from Uncanceled: Finding Meaning and Peace in a Culture of Accusations, Shame, and Condemnation. Copyright  2022 by Phil Robertson. Published by Thomas Nelson. Coming Feb. 8, 2022 wherever books are sold.
Even in death, celebrated actress Betty White is making a difference.

White, known for her roles on the hit television series The Golden Girls and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, died peacefully in her sleep on New Years Eve.

A passionate animal welfare activist, White would have celebrated her 100th birthday on Jan. 17.

Following her passing, the #BettyWhiteChallenge has swept across social media inspiring fellow animal lovers to support their local shelters across the country, including the Maury County Animal Shelter in Columbia.

Over the past three weeks, the shelter located off Iron Bridge Road, has seen an influx of supplies, with many inspired by the national awareness brought forth by the social media campaign.

More: The #BettyWhiteChallenge: Fans honor late actress on the day she would have turned 100

Instead of financial donations, most supporting the local shelter have instead purchased critical supplies listed on the shelters Amazon wish list.

Maury County Animal Shelter Director Jack Cooper stands with a shelter dog named Rebel in the front of the organizations facility in Columbia, Tenn., on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.

We are just so grateful, said Jack Cooper, the shelters director. We cant provide the excellent level of care at this shelter without the support of our community. There has just been tremendous progress and awareness about animal welfare. People like Betty White helped populate that awareness in the public.

Members of the surrounding community have purchased toys, leashes, supplements, bowls, blankets, brushes and even office supplies to ensure that the animals and the staff of the shelter have what they need.

More: Betty White Challenge donations reach over $50K for Nashville Humane Association

We are county-funded so the products are most useful to us, said Kim Rauffauf, the shelters lead volunteer. Every little bit helps. Dont get me wrong, we appreciate financial donations, and we are thankful for that. We have had a lot of really generous people. It really helps us out a lot, and this year, we have more animals than we have ever had.

Spike in animals, adoptions at shelter

The shelter is currently home to 144 cats and 80 dogs waiting to be adopted.

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More: 'Hands on' animal shelter director takes facility from worst to first

Cooper said that the total number of animals under the facilitys care have spiked by 31% between 2020 and 2021. This is a total annual increase of about 600 animals under the shelters care.

Simultaneously, adoptions have jumped by 52%, representing a greater support for the shelter that goes beyond celebrity influence, Cooper said.

More: Adoptions on the rise at the Maury County Animal Shelter

It makes my heart feel full, Cooper said. I have been doing this for 20 years and have been fighting with hand and feet to fund the shelters that I have worked at. Now, the community cares.

Lead volunteer Kim Rauffauf takes Rebel out for a walk at the Maury County Animal Shelter in Columbia, Tenn., on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.

He said the communitys ongoing support allows the shelter to provide the basics that they need and go above and beyond, and provide its animals with more medical and other supplies that can improve the quality of life of the animals.

It allows us to make our care even better, Cooper said. Not only can we provide good care but excellent care.

More: Betty White's 'Celebration' features her last video message to fans, in theaters for 100th birthday

The added support also enables the shelter to reach out to the greater community to provide support. The shelter offered its services to Waverly, Tennessee after the community was devastated by flooding in August 2021.

A lot of the more rural communities surrounding us also look to us for support, Cooper said. People volunteer and donate their time, money and resources. We have the ability to respond and do things that many other shelters cannot. So when Waverly floods, my people can go out there and save those animals.

More: Yearwood applauds the Maury County Animal Shelter

Cooper said the shelter also relies on the dedicated support of its volunteers and is always looking for more to help.

Maury County Animal Shelter Director Jack Cooper takes a shelter dog named Rebel out for a walk at the shelters adoption center in Columbia, Tenn., on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.

Having a volunteer program allows our animals to become socialized, Cooper said. It makes them more adoptable and gets them adopted quicker. All of that makes sure that the people who are trained to take care of these pets can take care of them. Thats what is important.

The shelter's Amazon wish list can be viewed at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/26I68K9AR0GBG?ref_=wl_share&fbclid=IwAR32ymKq3PzHJ7Bd0t8fOFTmggRUCItLQ17Ufdll1ipp0IZ1AuAxup7Utkc.

For additional information on volunteering or adopting and animal, call (931) 375-1402.

The shelter is located at 1233 Mapleash Ave., Columbia.

Reach Mike Christen at mchristen@c-dh.net. Follow him on Twitter at @MikeChristenCDH and on Instagram at @michaelmarco. Please consider supporting his work and that of other Daily Herald journalists by subscribing to the publication.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: Betty White inspires donations at Maury County Animal Shelter
A Sweet Home man was arrested Tuesday morning after what police called an armed road-rage incident, according to a news release from the Lebanon Police Department.

Kenneth Wayne Parker, 61, was arrested on suspicion of unlawful use of a weapon, menacing and second-degree disorderly conduct. He was temporarily held at Lebanon Municipal Jail and later transported to Linn County Jail.

At around 9:39 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1, Lebanon police received a call about a road-rage incident in which a man allegedly pointed a gun at another vehicle occupied by a woman and two small children, according to the news release.

Although the news release said there were three people in the car, court documents allege there were only two victims total.

The incident is said to have first happened on South Santiam Highway near Sodaville-Waterloo Road and continued toward the Lebanon city limits.

LPD Officer Eric Stein responded to the call and learned the suspect was no longer in the area, according to the release. The female driver said the suspect allegedly pointed a handgun in her direction as she passed him.

She told police that the suspect seemed to be distraught about traffic conditions, according to the release.

With the assistance of Sweet Home Police Department, the suspect was identified as Parker and contacted at his residence. Officers took Parker into custody without incident.

After searching Parkers vehicles, officers found the firearm they suspect was used in the incident. LPD seized the weapon.

In investigating the matter, Stein discovered the suspect was seemingly distraught about traffic conditions.

Parker was arraigned Wednesday, Feb. 2 in Linn County Circuit Court on one count of unlawful use of a weapon, two counts of menacing and two counts of pointing firearm at another.

According to the news release, the investigation is active. Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to contact Stein at 541-258-4327.
The Deputy Ranking Member on the Finance Committee of Parliament and National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central Constituency has prevailed on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to cut the fanfare and bring the controversial E-levy to the floor of Parliament.

It is the floor that the business of passing bills and laws are done and not going on a jamboree, he said.

Mr. Isaac Adongo made this statement in reaction to a statement by the president that he is determined to have the E-levy passed despite the unnecessary disputations on the floor to save Ghana's economy from collapse.

Speaking on Accra-based Joy FM Mr Adongo ridiculed that if the president was really determined to pass the E-levy, he should bring his 138 parliamentarians against the NDC's 137 to parliament to have the E-levy passed knowing very well that each side of the house has 137 lawmakers each.

He said the E-levy is the most disliked bill ever introduced on the floor of Parliament.

It has been three months now since the E-levy was introduced on the floor and there is no indication the bill is going to be passed and the president should be worried about this and not the fanfare, he stated.

The minority in parliament and a cross-section of the population have kicked against the e-levy and called on the government to drop it.

However, these calls have fallen on deaf ears.

The government has explained that the upsurge in the use of e-payment platforms, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been an impetus for the introduction of the levy.

As a result, Ghana recorded a total of GHS500 billion from e-transactions in 2020 compared with GHS78 billion in 2016.

The government says the e-levy proceeds will be used to support entrepreneurship, youth employment, cyber security, and digital and road infrastructure, among others.

Classfmonline.com
Ghanaian Economist, Emmanuel Amoah-Darkwah, has stated that it is close to impossible for the government of Ghana to receive loans externally to run the economy, hence, their insistence in implementing the e-levy.

According to him, the external factors that could help Ghana raise external loans, especially a commercial loan has become difficult. Looking at the current ratings by Fitch and raising concerns about how we are going to amortize our debts has made it very difficult for the government.

Mr. Amoah-Darkwah indicated this circumstance has put the government between a rock and a hard place forcing them to look at policy options going into the future.

In an interview with Samuel Eshun on e.TV Ghanas Fact Sheet show, Mr Amoah-Darkwah, described the governments position as critical because we have a very tight fiscal space.

Quoting three (3) expenditure items in the 2022 budget, Mr. Amoah-Darkwah pointed out that the government has allocated Gh37billion for interest payments, Gh35 billion as compensation of government employees, and grants of about Gh26 billion to government institutions then we have capital expenditure.

He was quick to note that a sum of these three (3) expenditure items stood at Gh98billion with the revenue projection in the same budget standing at Gh100 billion. On his accord, the total expenditure of the country for 2022 is Gh137 billion, indication a staggering Gh37 billion deficit from the projected revenue.

Now the option we have to raise the deficit is either to borrow or raise the revenue internally and this has put govt between a rock and a hard place, where it is finding it difficult to raise revenue from foreign agencies and now has to look inward.

Ghanas finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta announced that the government intends to introduce an electronic transaction levy (e-levy) in the 2022 budget. He said this was to widen the tax net and rope in the informal sector.

The proposed levy, which will come into effect on 1 February 2022, is a charge of 1.75% of the value of electronic transactions. It covers mobile money payments, bank transfers, merchant payments, and inward remittances. The originator of the transactions will bear the charge except for inward remittances, which will be borne by the recipient. There is an exemption for transactions up to GH100 ($16) per day.

---happyghana.com
ATHENS, Texas (AP)  A 14-year-old East Texas boy was arrested on a murder charge in the fatal shooting of his 8-year-old brother, officials said Wednesday.

In a statement Wednesday, Henderson County Sheriff Botie Hillhouse says the shooting was reported shortly before 6:30 p.m. Saturday at a rural house about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of Athens, Texas. When first responders arrived, the 8-year-old was on the back porch and people were already attempting life-saving measures. The child died at a hospital in Dallas, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) northwest.

The shooting was initially blamed on a stray bullet from a nearby wooded area, but Hillhouse said the investigation and an autopsy proved that scenario impossible.

Physical evidence and witness statements led to the brother being arrested. Hillhouse says the brothers and another juvenile were at home alone when the shooting happened.
Sales rise 11.00% to Rs 2670.70 crore

Net profit of Hindustan Construction Company declined 45.67% to Rs 64.43 crore in the quarter ended December 2021 as against Rs 118.58 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2020. Sales rose 11.00% to Rs 2670.70 crore in the quarter ended December 2021 as against Rs 2406.01 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2020.2670.702406.0114.7315.91133.47159.9286.86124.3964.43118.58

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Online banking app Revolut will begin offering traditional banking products including credit cards and personal loans to Irish customers this year after being granted a full European banking licence.

The fintech firm, which is currently regulated by the Lithuanian Central Bank, is planning to increase its offering to Irish customers as Ulster Bank and KBC Bank move to exit the market in the Republic of Ireland.

Revolut which claims to have over 1.7 million Irish customers, said it has opened a waiting list for a personal loan product, marking its first steps towards launching a service called Revolut Bank.

Under the new service, personal loans will be available to both old and new Revolut customers, the company said. Other lending products will be available later this year, according to a spokesperson.

Revoluts Irish customers will also be able to sign up for a bank account guaranteed up to 100,000, backed by the Lithuanian Deposit Guarantee Scheme. The fintech outfit previously operated in the Irish market under a UK e-money licence but began shifting its European customers to its Lithuanian operation in 2018 due to Brexit.

Since then, the company has been operating within the European Economic Area (EEA) under a specialised challenger bank licence.

However, the European Central Bank decided to grant Revolut a full banking licence in December, allowing it to issue a credit to customers in Ireland and across the EEA.

It was also granted an e-money licence by the Central Bank of Ireland before Christmas, which it applied for in 2019.

But Revolut has decided not to use the Irish licence, meaning that some jobs are likely to be lost at the banks Irish operation where it currently employs around 100 people.




Tokyo, Feb 3 : After recently acquiring Bungie for a lot more than Destiny, tech giant Sony has revealed that it plans to launch more than 10 new live service games by March 2026.

According to The Verge, that is a hugely ambitious plan and marks a major expansion for Sony's PlayStation games beyond its traditional console exclusives.

"The strategic significance of this acquisition lies not only in obtaining the highly successful Destiny franchise, as well as major new IP Bungie is currently developing, but also incorporating into the Sony group the expertise and technologies Bungie has developed in the live game services space," Hiroki Totoki, CFO, Sony, was quoted as saying.

"Through close collaboration between Bungie and PlayStation Studios we aim to launch more than 10 live service games by the fiscal year ending March 2026," Totoki added.

It was clear that Sony's Bungie acquisition was all about competing with Fortnite, but now those ambitions look even broader.

Bungie's next IP, codenamed Matter, is rumoured to be a "multiplayer action game" with "character-based" gameplay.

Bungie said last year that its next IP will launch before 2025. But that's just one game out of the 10, and Eurogamer points out that there are signs of many more in the works.
My response as a former Muslim to Barry 'Phanatik' Goodwin leaving Christianity

We recently learned of yet another well-known Christian renouncing his faith. Barry Phanatik Goodwin was the co-founder of the Christ movement and was loved by his fans as a great lyricist and preacher of the Gospel. In a personal and heartfelt video, he does not articulate the specific issues he has with Christianity. Simply stated, there were issues in the Scripture he could no longer ignore and continue in good consciousness to preach and believe in. He also suffered from depression starting in 2014 when his crisis in faith began. Phanatik was not a self-taught Christian like myself. He spent years studying the Scripture in Bible college and also attended Westminster Theological Seminary. Towards the end of the video, he clarifies his intention to state his problems with the Bible publicly, so I presume a lengthy intellectual debate will ensue. I will leave that discussion for scholars far more capable than I, and focus instead on the tragedy of someone walking away from Jesus.

I do not know how Phanatik first encountered the Lord, but I met Him at the darkest point in my life. After decades of sincere worship, I left Islam because I could no longer tolerate a God that would punish me without mercy and with whom I had no direct relationship. Yet my soul still longed for a relationship with my Creator. I kept crying and praying for Him to reveal Himself to me until one day, I audibly heard the voice of Christ call my name. It was a supernatural encounter that was impossible to deny or ignore. Soon after, I had this overwhelming fear of what it would mean to become a Christian. I spent the next few years devouring Scripture and studying Biblical commentary about the text I was reading. I rarely left the house because I had to reconcile my heart and intellect that Jesus was God incarnate. I prayed incessantly as I read, and the Scriptures came alive. The Lord was revealing to me what He had done throughout time to draw man to Him and how salvation ultimately culminated in the sacrifice of His son so we can be in right standing with our Father. We were all sinners that needed a Savior. God loved us, but He was holy. He could not ignore the price of sin, so He sent His Son to pay that price on our behalf. However, redemption requires acceptance of what Jesus did for us on the cross.

God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood  to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance, he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished  he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at present, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. Romans 3:25-26

I am eternally grateful the Lord did not leave me blind to the essential and straightforward reality that my salvation depends on faith in Christ.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

Though there is overwhelming historical evidence that Jesus walked the earth and his arrival fulfilled nearly 300 prophecies written 700+ years beforehand, we must have faith. Faith is in what we cannot see. Therefore, I wonder how many nights Phanatik spent on his knees crying to God, seeking His face, and praying for the answers to his unbelief. We know he sought out scholars, both liberal and conservative but did he turn to God, the author, and finisher of our faith?

Being a Christ-follower is not about over-analyzing the linguistic nuances of Biblical texts but is primarily about faith in the one sent to save us from ourselves. I am not advocating ignorance of the text, but there is an inherent risk to using only our minds to understand the mystery of God. Evolutionists and atheists do a similar thing. They want to understand creation entirely through their intellect. It is an impossible task. Yet someone with an open heart who looks to find meaning in the world through science can ultimately meet God in that place. Intellectual giants like C.S. Lewis came to that conclusion, and we see that happening in renowned psychologist Jordan Peterson as well. Unfortunately, the converse can also occur. Someone determined to find an error with God will find justification to deny His word and His plan for our lives.

Some commentators opine that his departure from Christianity results from church hurt. Whether its a perceived lack of social justice in the Evangelical community or individuals that disappointed him, we cannot judge Christ by what people do. We are all wretched sinners saved by grace. We make mistakes, we commit offenses, but that should not take us away from the purity and grace of Christ. It is a relationship, not religion, that saves us. When the trials of life, like depression or disappointment from family or church friends, strike us at our core, our strength comes from the great consoler who helps us hold on and persevere. The Bible warns us repeatedly about relying on our emotions to govern our faith because the heart is deceptively wicked. I can understand the agony and frustration that would make someone want to leave a church, but I cannot understand walking away from Jesus.

I know what it is like to wander around without a relationship with the Living God. I would not wish that on my worst enemy. However, the Lord expects our reverence and awe to transcend our inquisitive minds. I cannot pretend to know the struggles Phanatik had when he engaged the Scriptures, but I pray he finds his way back.

Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven. Mathew 10:32-33
BRUSSELS, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Natural gas and nuclear energy are included in the European Union's (EU) taxonomy as sustainable investments for the private sector, European Commissioner in charge of Financial Services Mairead McGuinness said on Wednesday.

In a Taxonomy Complementary Climate Delegated Act on climate change mitigation and adaptation, the European Commission includes natural gas and nuclear energy in its plan for building a climate-friendly future, labeling investments in natural gas and nuclear projects sustainable under certain conditions.

"The inclusion of nuclear and natural gas in the taxonomy comes with conditions associated with their use and with safeguards against significant environmental harm," the European Commission said on Twitter.

"Investors must be able to clearly recognize if an investment includes natural gas or nuclear activities and to what extent, so they can make an informed investment decision," it added.

As public investment will not be sufficient to finance the EU's transition towards carbon neutrality, its taxonomy is a tool designed to signpost the way for private investments that will help the bloc to realize its ambition.

"It is our common grammar for financial markets to know what is green or not, and what is useful for the transition without being green," explained Pascal Canfin, Chair of the Environment committee of the European Parliament.

However, there have been concerns about the inclusion. The Climate Action Network Europe expressed its "grave concern at the proposal that fossil gas and nuclear energy be included in the EU Taxonomy."

"The inclusion ... would not only mislead consumers and investors, but would also call into question the extent to which the European Commission values scientific evidence," it said in a letter addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Simone Tagliapetra, a senior fellow at Brussels-based think-tank Bruegel, argued that "gas & nuclear will play a role in the transition, but they are not green -- and can be financed in any case. By including them, the taxonomy will now just not be a 'gold standard'."

The natural gas and nuclear energy "are activities that cannot yet be replaced by technologically and economically feasible low-carbon alternatives, but do contribute to climate change mitigation and with the potential to play a major role in the transition to a climate-neutral economy," the EU explained in a press release. 
Chinese inventor and YouTuber Handy Geng created the worlds largest power bank with the capacity to charge 5,000 phones.



Geng uploaded a video documenting how he made a 27,000,000-mAh portable charger to his official YouTube channel on Jan. 29.



I think my power bank's capacity is a little bit small, so I bought a larger one recently, Geng stated in his video, according to the auto-translation. But when I mentioned its capacity to my friends, I didn't expect that [they would have] an even larger one... As an ambitious person, I couldn't fall asleep for several nights, so I decided to make a super large mega power bank.



The mega power banks capacity approximately equals 900 power banks and is capable of fully charging 5,000 phones with 3,000-mAh batteries, according to its creator. The Times of India reported that an average power bank only contains a 10,000-mAh to 20,000-mAh battery and includes up to four charging ports.



Gengs welded metal frame of a power bank measures 5.9 feet by 3.9 feet by .98 feet and includes 60 sockets that are able to charge phones simultaneously.





It can not only charge many phones at the same time, Geng says while demonstrating in the video, It can also charge power banks and laptop[s].



Geng proves the power of his invention even further by dragging it outside to charge his friends electric bicycle.



My brother and friend [were] very surprised and envious when seeing my power bank and can't stop praising my technique, Geng says. They also said that they'd like to own such a power bank as well if possible.



After bringing his invention by a river, Geng shows he is able to run a washing machine and a TV while fishing and cooking fish with an electric pot.



With this power bank, you don't need to worry about lacking electricity at all when being outdoors, Geng added. You can even watch TV while fishing and wash clothes while watching TV. You can even cook the fish right away with an electric pot and enjoy the fresh food in nature.



The video has garnered over 387,000 views, as of this writing.



Featured Images via Handy Geng

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EBRD providing  25 million loan to Turkish leasing firm BNP Paribas Finansal Kiralama A.S.

 Financing under TurSEFF III to encourage sustainability investments by local enterprises

Focus on green investments and support for small businesses

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is teaming up with BNP Paribas Finansal Kiralama A.S., a leasing company in Turkey, to enable local businesses to invest in newer, more efficient, less resource-intensive equipment.

The company operates in Turkey as BNP Paribas Finansal Kiralama A.S. and is part of BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, a European leader in asset finance. It specialises in financing solutions for a wide range of equipment for professional use, from the agriculture, construction, logistics, industrial and textile sectors to professional equipment for the information technology, healthcare, office equipment, telecommunications and solar energy sectors.

BNP Paribas Finansal Kiralama A.S. will channel the EBRD funds to small and medium-sized enterprises and public-sector companies in Turkey investing in new equipment to help achieve greater energy efficiency, water efficiency, waste minimisation and/or implement small-scale renewable energy projects.

The loan is being extended under the third phase of the Turkey Sustainable Energy Financing Facility (TurSEFF III), backed by the European Union and the Republic of Turkeys Ministry of Treasury and Finance. Launched in 2010, the credit line has provided financing of 719 million to commercial banks and leasing companies for on-lending to more than 2,200 private-sector small business projects for sustainable energy investments.

The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Turkey and, to date, has invested more than 15 billion in the country through 367 projects, with the overwhelming majority of those in the private sector. Sustainability is at the heart of its work.
A former Louisville, Kentucky, police officer was sentenced Tuesday to two years in prison for hitting a kneeling protester in the back of the head with a riot baton during a 2020 demonstration over Breonna Taylors death, federal officials said.

Cory P. Evans, 34, had previously pleaded guilty to violating the Constitution and using unreasonable force on May 31, 2020, while working as part of the Louisville Metro Police Departments Special Response Team.

Evans tried to arrest a group of people for unlawful assembly and violating curfew in the downtown area, the U.S. Justice Department said in a statement.

Thats when a person in the group surrendered by getting on his knees and placing his hands in the air, officials said.

While that person was kneeling in this position, Evans struck him in the back of the head with a riot stick, which created a wound on the back of the kneeling victims head. The victim fell forward and was taken into custody by other LMPD officers, the Justice Department statement said.

Former officer Evans abused his authority by violently retaliating against a surrendering arrestee who had been exercising his First Amendment rights during a demonstration in Louisville, during the racial justice demonstrations in the spring of 2020, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke said. "The Justice Department will continue to hold accountable officers who violate their oath and the Constitution.

In addition to his prison sentence, Evans was also sentenced to two years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings of the Western District of Kentucky, officials said.

Evans attorney, Brian Butler, said in a statement Wednesday that his clients actions during the 2020 protest must be looked at in context.

Cory Evans is a combat veteran who served his nation in the War in Afghanistan. It is well documented that he saved at least four lives as a Louisville Police Officer. He took full responsibility for his split-second reaction, Butler said.

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But, this incident must be viewed in light of the fact that during the Louisville riots officers were shot at nightly. They had Molotov cocktails thrown at them. They were pummeled with rocks, bricks, bottles of urine and bottles of rancid milk," the statement said.

"Cory will be forever disappointed that the Government that he served in combat rejected his request to have his case referred to Veterans Court and the Government sought a draconian sentence.

Louisville police served Evans with pre-termination papers in June following his indictment on a charge of deprivation of rights under color of law. A spokesperson for the agency could not be immediately reached Wednesday to say when Evans formally split from the department.

After Evans was indicted, police released 37 pages of his personnel history. The files show a mixed record.

Evans was promoted to officer in March 2015 and commended for bravery and going beyond the call of duty multiple times.

He received a commendation letter from his police chief for loading a wounded shooting victim into an armored vehicle during a May 28, 2020, protest. Emergency medical personnel could not otherwise reach the victim because of a hostile crowd, records said.

In March 2020, he was lauded for keeping a woman calm who had jumped from a rail yard bridge into water. He first located her, then, while speaking to her from a flood wall, ordered her to swim to the wall and hold on until firefighters rescued her.

However, he was also investigated and at times found to have violated department policy and procedures. Records show that in September 2015 Evans failed to activate video in an incident in which he fatally shot a pit bull.

He was also investigated over allegations of excessive force in a December 2018 incident and exonerated. Those records were partly redacted.

Evans was also found to have crashed into another vehicle during a November 2019 pursuit in which he failed to use due regard, files said.

NBC affiliate WAVE of Louisville reported that the 2020 protest was in response to Taylor's death.

Taylor, 26, was shot in her home on March 13, 2020, after Louisville police officers executed a no-knock warrant at her residence. During the early morning raid, Taylor was killed by police in a shooting. Officers opened fire after Taylors boyfriend, believing an intruder was trying to break in, fired a gun toward the door.

The botched raid targeted Taylors ex-boyfriend, a convicted drug dealer. That man, Jamarcus Glover, has said Taylor had no involvement in the drug trade.

Evans was not part of the raid.
Ryan-Mark Parsons was forced to apologise to former date Callum during Wednesday's Celebs Go Dating shenanigans.

The media personality, 21, triggered a sense of disbelief among the show's fans on Tuesday when he fabricated a spa day to leave their drinks date, before handing Callum a 'wax-sealed' letter detailing his feeling that they were not the right match.

Dating agents Paul Carrick Brunson and Anna Williamson were left very disappointed in the youngest-ever Apprentice star, who muttered he 'couldn't be a***d when entering the agency.

'The delivery stinks': Ryan-Mark Parsons was forced to apologise to his former date on Celebs Go Dating on Wednesday after fabricating a spa day and leaving him a wax-sealed letter

Ryan-Mark claimed his parting gift was a 'very nice letter', but Anna was not convinced.

'You've been so rude. The delivery stinks,' she said, while Paul chimed, 'It's really bad.'

Anna added separately: 'This is really disappointing. This is the second time we've had to talk to Ryan-Mark about his rudeness.'

Shocked: The media personality, 21, triggered a sense of disbelief among the show's fans on Tuesday when he fabricated a spa day to leave a drinks date

Attitude: Dating agents Paul Carrick Brunson and Anna Williamson were left very disappointed in The Apprentice star, who muttered he 'couldn't be a***d when entering the agency

Fabrication: Ryan-Mark also handed Callum a 'wax-sealed' letter detailing his feeling that they were not the right match

Paul and Anna mustered their efforts trying to get Ryan-Mark to understand how he'd refused to confront the situation honestly, his actions leading to a Celebs Go Dating first: no feedback was received.

'Callum was upset that Ryan-Mark didn't tell him face-to-face so he refused to complete the feedback,' it was explained.

Paul then broke the news that the entrepreneur would have to apologise personally.

Attempt: Paul and Anna mustered their efforts trying to get Ryan-Mark to understand how he'd refused to confront the situation honestly

First-time occurrence: 'Callum was upset that Ryan-Mark didn't tell him face-to-face so he refused to complete the feedback,' it was explained

Not happy: Paul then broke the news that the entrepreneur would have to apologise personally

On FaceTime, Ryan-Mark said: 'It didn't end on the best terms. I have to say that I am deeply sorry if you were upset by my approach, by the letter.

'It wasn't my intention to offend you and I just wanted to get out of there but I could have done it in a better way.'

Callum appreciated the apology and voiced hopes that Ryan-Mark would learn from the situation and act honestly next time.

Bigger person: On FaceTime, Ryan-Mark said: 'It didn't end on the best terms. I have to say that I am deeply sorry if you were upset by my approach, by the letter'

Fans of ever-entertaining Celebs Go Dating could not believe what they were witnessing on Tuesday night, as Ryan-Mark excused himself from a date with a fabrication.

Ryan-Mark, who earned a name for himself as The Apprentice's youngest ever candidate when he was 19, was out for the second time with date Callum - but pulled the wool over his eyes with a spa appointment.

Midway through the drinks date, Ryan-Mark announced: 'I just remembered, I actually have a spa booked right now. F**k that's so bad, I think I'm going to have to go to it. Is that okay?'

'I literally have no words': Fans were in disbelief as Ryan-Mark excused himself from a date with the 'lamest excuse' on Celebs Go Dating on Tuesday

Even though a more-than-understanding Callum urged him to indulge on some rest and relaxation, the date took another awkward turn.

Ryan-Mark handed Callum a 'wax-sealed' letter, which detailed his feeling that they were not the right match.

As the uncomfortable scene played out, fans of the E4 hit show flocked to Twitter with their judgement.

Awkward: Midway through the drinks date, Ryan-Mark announced: 'I just remembered, I actually have a spa booked right now. F**k that's so bad, I think I'm going to have to go to it'

Drinks: Even though a more-than-understanding Callum urged him to indulge on some rest and relaxation, the date took another awkward turn

Can't watch! Ryan-Mark handed Callum a 'wax-sealed' letter, which detailed his feeling that they were not the right match

A shocked viewer penned: 'No way Ryan-Mark did not just turn down someone on a date via a note & not just a note but a printed note sealed & stamped... I literally have no words... #CelebsGoDating'.

A second fan had aligned views and wrote, 'Cant believe that Ryan-Mark had the lamest excuse for running out on his date with super hot Calum then he leaves him a letter saying hes not for him then left him to the pay the bill!'

Another was left 'speechless' at the columnist's rudeness, while a fourth went so far as to say he needs to 'learn respect.'

Disbelief: As the uncomfortable scene played out, fans of the E4 hit show flocked to Twitter with their judgement

Businessman: In 2019, Ryan-Mark joined The Apprentice as the youngest-ever candidate since the show began in 2005

In 2019, Ryan-Mark joined The Apprentice as the youngest-ever candidate since the show began in 2005.

In week six, he tested one of the rides at Thorpe Park, which garnered huge response on social media.

Ryan-Mark's endeavours since include joining The Daily Star as a weekly columnist and partaking in a digital series called Off The Table.
Representative Ngodup Dongchung from the Bureau of his holiness Dalai Lama in New Delhi congratulated the recently appointed convener Sujeet Kumar of the revived All Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet (APIPFT) as noted by Phayul. Rajya Sabha MP Sujeet Kumar was informed about the latest information regarding the situation inside Tibet by the Dharamshala-based Central Tibetan Administration. As per the Tibet.net report, both the representatives discussed varied matters including the larger Tibetan public spread across the diaspora. "Representative [Ngodup] requested Shri Kumar that apart from political [matters], Tibet's culture, language, religion and environment which are being destroyed by Communist China to be raised in the Indian Parliament as these are significant to India [as well]," it further said. The Indian parliamentarian in turn assured his full support to the cause and said that he will do his best to make the forum more 'active and vigour' in advocating for the Tibetans, as noted by Phayul. Earlier, APIPFT was first established in 1970 under the leadership of M C Chagla. Subsequently, George Fernandes and Mohan Singh took over the forum. Last month, the new head of the forum and other members were asked by the Chinese embassy in New Delhi to put a halt on engaging with Tibetan leaders in exile, noting that India should refrain from providing support for "Tibetan independence forces", as reported by Phayul. The unusually worded letter from the embassy was heavily criticised by the politicians who had attended a reception conducted by Tibetan parliamentarians on December 22 last year. (ANI)
The state has not changed how it promotes vaccinations or implemented any widespread public health measures, even as the omicron variant drives a surge in new cases and has pushed deaths in Montana past 3,000 lives lost to COVID-19.

"It's certainly been around for a while," Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte said earlier this week in response to a question about if the state is shifting from viewing COVID-19 as a pandemic to an endemic disease that is always present. "We've seen different approaches in different states. We've seen surges in states with mandates. We've seen surges in states without mandates. And we all hope to get beyond this as soon as possible."

So far this year the state has added more than 44,700 cases of COVID-19. That means the new cases in January alone make up about 18% of all the COVID-19 cases ever reported in Montana since the pandemic reached here in March 2020.

During the omicron surge, Gianforte said the metric hes tracking is hospitalizations.

The input Im getting from the medical professionals is the number we really have to watch is the hospital capacity, Gianforte said. I've been encouraged to see declining hospitalizations (nationally) and hope we're getting to a point where we're seeing this faster decline in these numbers that we've seen in other areas.

Asked in a follow-up question of how Montana, which is not seeing a decline in cases or hospitalizations yet, could reach that point and the best ways to get there, Gianforte spokesperson Brooke Stroyke said in an emailed response National trendlines show infection rates in the U.S. sharply rising and then falling as a result of the omicron surge.

Last year Republican lawmakers convened in Helena and passed laws that curbed public health officials' ability to enact measures meant to slow the spread of the virus, like mask requirements or distancing measures. And Gianforte, also a Republican, has spoken out against vaccine mandates, including those from the federal government, calling the one that went into effect for health care workers "overbearing" in a Facebook post.

Still, his administration said it encourages Montanans to get vaccinated and publishes weekly reports showing those who are vaccinated are far more likely to stay healthy. But vaccination rates in Montana have remained low, with 54% of the eligible population fully vaccinated.

Asked via email earlier this week if the administration had plans to change its vaccination awareness efforts given the stagnant rates, the governor's office directed questions to the state health department, saying that agency has been charged with managing the ongoing vaccination campaign.

The administration has devoted numerous resources to encouraging Montanans to get the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine using all available tools, including a statewide media campaign, press conferences, social media and weekly and monthly reports to help educate the public about the effectiveness of the vaccine. Our work continues, spokesperson Jon Ebelt wrote in an email.

But data shows that the number of vaccine doses administered in Montana has dropped in recent weeks. There were just 6,054 doses administered for the week ending Jan. 28, down from 10,580 administered over the first week of January, according to state health department data.

The rate has declined even as Gianforte's administration shares statistics showing vaccines are very effective against severe illness and death from the disease. A readout produced following the governor's COVID-19 briefing last week showed from April 1, 2021, to Jan. 21, 2022, unvaccinated Montanans accounted for 82% of hospitalizations and 78% of deaths from COVID-19.

Data shows that demand for booster shots accounted for more than half of all the COVID-19 vaccine doses given in the week that ended Jan. 28, while shots going to people receiving their first dose made up just a quarter of shots. First-dose figures are a good way to gauge interest in getting vaccinated. Since the second week the state started tracking data for boosters in Montana, those shots have made up more than half of all doses administered in any given week.

The challenge is that its like preaching to the choir. The ones that want to listen are the ones that are already doing everything possible to keep themselves safe," said Dr. Neil Ku, an infectious disease specialist in Billings.

While Ku said hed hoped the delta variant, which led to a spike in cases, hospitalizations and deaths over the late summer and fall, would have left Montanans more wary of the pandemic as the omicron variant made its way here, hes instead seen some complacency with people having the attitude of Im going to get it eventually, why bother trying to fight this?

I think that mentalitys going around, Ku said.

Another challenge is how to talk to people about the pandemic because there's such a focus on an individual's experience and not the community's, Ku said.

Unless people know someone who isnt likely to gain a strong immune response from the vaccine or is at a higher risk for complications or severe illness, its really hard to appeal to them. They cant relate to that, Ku said.

While getting vaccinated protects many people, there are populations that can't be vaccinated or are still more at risk even if they get the shots  the old, the young, pregnant women, the immunocompromised or with health conditions.

Theyre kind of hidden, Ku said. I think thats maybe part of the problem. They dont walk around with a sign on their chest.

In Yellowstone County, Ku said he's considered changing the public health plea to focus on framing health care as a commodity that can run low in supply like any other.

Our messaging has been the biggest challenge, trying to instill that sense of personal responsibility or even community responsibility, Ku said. Trying to encourage the public  is a struggle because theyre hearing the same tune over and over and over again."

Another battle is widespread misinformation and disinformation about the benefits of public health measures and effectiveness and safety of vaccines.

But framing the conversation around scarcity might be a better route, Ku said.

(COVID-19 is) taking resources away from other patients who are coming in for other issues like heart attacks (and) strokes, Ku said. Were trying to appeal to the public with that  we have to do this not for the individuals but for the community.

In the last week of 2021, there were an average of 121 patients hospitalized for COVID-19 each day. That more than doubled to 251 patients for the most recent week data is available. On Wednesday there were 340 Montanans sick enough with COVID-19 to be hospitalized.

Rich Rasmussen, the president and CEO of the Montana Hospital Association, said in an interview this week that though hospitalizations are increasing compared to figures from the end of last year, those who are getting sick have less complex cases and are not filling intensive care units at the same rate as in other surges. That also means sick people can be cared for closer to home and don't need to be transferred to higher-acuity facilities in Montana's urban centers.

Ku said he's seen the same scenario in Billings. Leadership at the SCL Health facilities in Montana, which includes St. Vincent Healthcare in Billings, St. James Healthcare in Butte and Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City, also said they'd observed what Rasmussen described.

"We have seen an increase in hospitalization with omicron, however, not nearly to the level we saw with delta. With omicron, cases appear to be less severe, with fewer patients needing treatment in the intensive care unit," the hospitals said in an emailed statement.

The biggest challenge Montana's hospitals report with this surge, Rasmussen said, is staff members out because of the virus.

"The difficulty with this is because of the high contagiousness of this particular variant, it has hit broader swaths of our population, including our team members that have already been vaccinated," Rasmussen said. "What it essentially (means) is our facilities having more of their team members out because they have to be isolated or they might need to be quarantined than in the previous variants we've dealt with."

At Billings Clinic on Wednesday there were 40 staff members unable to work because they were either in quarantine or isolation because of COVID-19. That number has been as high as 90 in recent weeks, but has hovered in the 30-50 range. The Montana National Guard completed its COVID-19 support mission in Montana hospitals at the end of last year. Ebelt said hospitals can request Guard resources, "but that does not guarantee their availability."

Rasmussen said the transmission is not occurring within the facilities because of the widespread use of measures to slow transmission, like mask use, proper handwashing and other measures. But those precautions are minimal in the communities where hospital employees work, leaving them more susceptible to the very-contagious omicron variant.

Its hard to predict when the omicron surge might slow, Ku said. Part of the reason why that is involves how different Montana is from other states, both in terms of a not-very-dense population and lax public health measures. Another problem is that its hard to gauge how many people are actually sick, given the rise in at-home testing.

We are likely to have a higher number of cases of COVID-19 that are out there than what were seeing, Ku said.

Last week the state health department launched an online portal for people to report positive results from at-home tests. Since Jan. 26, Ebelt said the department has received more than 340 positive results reported in.

While public health measures like the stay-at-home orders from 2020 are a sure-fire way to slow the spread of a virus, Ku said it's not a sustainable solution given the economic concerns, as well as the logistics of keeping kids out of school and more.

On the other hand, we cant just assume that this is going to go away on its own," Ku said, even though "(it feels like for some the approach is) were just trying to plow through this and hopefully everything will be OK."

Ku said it's possible, but will be difficult, to find a balance of "how do we try to keep fewer people sick, trying to keep them out of the hospital, minimize the impact on our economy, minimize the impact on our schools, things like that, Ku said. Because the challenge now that Im seeing is were hoping this virus will adapt to us, what we do from day to day. The problem's thats not how its working.

 Reporter Seaborn Larson contributed to this story.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/former-us-ambassador-to-israel-reveals-how-he-maneuvered-trump-into-getting-israel-policy-right-1092714858.html

Former US Ambassador to Israel Reveals How He Maneuvered Trump Into Getting Israel Policy Right

Former US Ambassador to Israel Reveals How He Maneuvered Trump Into Getting Israel Policy Right

Donald Trump launched an expletive-filled tirade against Benjamin Netanyahu late last year over BiBis perceived lack of loyalty after he congratulated Joe... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T10:50+0000

2022-02-03T10:50+0000

2022-02-03T12:44+0000

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reuven rivlin

benjamin netanyahu

david friedman

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Donald Trump nearly ruined the US relationship with Israel in his first months in office, and it took careful finesse from his ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, to shape the presidents views toward the staunchly pro-Israeli policy positions that ultimately came to be, the former diplomat has boasted.In his upcoming new book Sledgehammer: How Breaking with the Past Brought Peace to the Middle East, excerpts of which were published by The Guardian on Thursday, Friedman recalled how Trump shocked aides while meeting with then-Israeli President Reuven Rivlin in May 2017 by attacking then-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his intransigence on peace with the Palestinians. At the same time, Trump reportedly said that Palestinian National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas was desperate for a peace deal.On the campaign trail in 2016, Trump repeatedly referred to a prospective agreement between Israel and Palestine as the ultimate deal and said that he as a deal maker, would like to help resolve the 70+ year war that never ends for humanitys sake.Following the May 2017 meeting with Rivlin, and before his meeting with Netanyahu, Friedman recounted how he pressed Trump and other officials into watching a two-minute collection of Abbass speeches that I thought was worth watching. The tape, in the former envoys recollection, featured two minutes of Abbas honouring terrorists, extolling violence, and vowing never to accept anything less than Israels total defeat.After the tape ended, the president said, Wow, is that the same guy I met in Washington last month? He seemed like such a sweet, peaceful guy. The tape had clearly made an impact, Friedman wrote.In the years that followed, Trumps policy became staunchly pro-Israel, with the president striking up a personal friendship with Netanyahu, formally recognising Jerusalem as the countrys capital, cutting US aid to the Palestinian Authority, providing US support for Israeli settler campaigns in the West Bank, and backing the Abraham Accords  the series of diplomatic negotiations which led the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco to normalise ties with Tel Aviv.Thanks to Friedman and other officials, including Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner, the Trump administration also unveiled the "Peace for Prosperity" plan, better known as the Trump peace plan, in January 2020, with the proposal calling for a two-state solution, recognition of Israeli claims to settlements in the West Bank, Israeli sovereignty over the Jordan Valley, and Jerusalem as the countrys capital. For the Palestinian side, the plan proposed a $50 billion fund for infrastructure and investment, as well as a few neighbourhoods of East Jerusalem for a Palestinian capital. Abbas denounced the plan, emphasising that Jerusalem was not for sale and suggesting that the proposal as a whole belongs in the garbage can of history.Trump has remained staunchly pro-Israel since leaving office, raising eyebrows by complaining that Israel no longer has absolute power over Congress, and accusing liberal American Jews of not caring enough about the Jewish State.Trumps friendship with Netanyahu came to a crashing halt last year, however, over the former Israeli prime ministers move to quickly congratulate Biden with his election victory in November 2020, and then again after his inauguration in January 2021.The first person that congratulated [Biden was Bibi Netanyahu, the man that I did more for any another person I dealt with, Trump complained in an interview. He was very early. Like earlier than most. I havent spoken to him since. F*** him, the former president added. I liked Bibi. I still like Bibi. But I also like loyalty.

https://sputniknews.com/20211210/f-him-bitter-trump-bashes-netanyahu-over-bibis-efforts-to-cozy-up-to-biden-1091415003.html

https://sputniknews.com/20211214/what-the-hell-was-that-trump-was-furious-with-bibi-over-move-to-push-into-west-bank-author-says-1091501075.html

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Uyghurs are stuck in Morocco and Saudi Arabia, while Kazakhstan has reportedly deported some 100 ethnic Kazakhs.

Idris Hasan, who is in detention in Morocco and faces deportation to China, in an undated photo.

Uyghurs facing imminent deportation from Morocco and Saudi Arabia to China, where they are at risk of torture and other human rights violations, are in dire need diplomatic intervention from Washington, a Congressional advisory body said in a recent letter to the top U.S. diplomat.

In a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the heads of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) identified Uyghurs in Morocco and Saudi Arabia and ethnic Kazakhs in Kazakhstan who are in danger of being sent back to China.

"They are at serious risk of arbitrary detention, torture, and other forms of severe mistreatment if they are returned to China, particularly in light of the ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity taking place in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR)," said the letter from Sen. Jeff Merkley and Rep. James McGovern (D-MA), chair and co-chair of the CECC.

"Uyghurs, Kazakhs and others previously deported to China from other countries have reportedly been detained or disappeared upon their return," said the CEEC, which monitors human rights and rule of law in China, and keeps a database of political prisoners.

These cases reflect the difficulties facing Uyghurs and Kazakhs seeking refuge from Chinese government persecution in countries with increasing Chinese economic influence, it added.

Hamidulla Wali in an undated photo. Credit: Hamidulla Wali The letter highlighted Idris Hasan, 33, who in Turkey had worked as a translator to document rights abuses in Xinjiang and now faces imminent extradition to China from Morocco based on an Interpol red notice seeking his capture that was withdrawn after his arrest in July.

Also in peril are two Uyghur Chinese nationals -- Muslim religious scholar Hamidulla Wali and his roommate Nurmemet Rozi  who were arrested in Saudi Arabia in November 2020 and told last month that they would be deported soon, the CEEC said.

The letter to Blinken also cited a Jan. 10 report in the religious freedom website Bitter Winter that Kazakh police and Chinese consular officials recently deported more than 100 ethnic Kazakh asylum seekers and students to China via the border city of Korgas, including some who had received residency status in Kazakhstan

Kazakh authorities have allowed some ethnic Kazakhs from Xinjiang to remain in Kazakhstan, but officials have also pressured, detained, and otherwise persecuted some ethnic Kazakhs seeking to raise awareness about human rights abuses in the XUAR in recent years, the CECC letter said.

We urge you to intervene in these cases to prevent the refoulement of these individuals, the letter said, using the diplomatic term for the forcible return of refugees or asylum seekers to a country where they are liable to be subjected to persecution.

The focus on Uyghurs and Kazakhs in deportation limbo comes just over a year after the State Department determined that Chinese policies in the XUAR, including the mass detention of some 1.8 million people in internment camps since 2017 and forced birth control measures, constitutes genocide.

Uyghurs in exile are now facing a refugee crisis due to China committing genocide against Uyghurs in East Turkestan for the past five years, said Dolkun Isa, president of the Germany-based World Uyghur Congress. East Turkestan is many Uyghurs preferred name for their Central Asian Homeland.

Many Uyghurs who fled Chinese persecution now face the prospect of their Chinese passports and foreign visas expiring or already expired. They dont have a safe haven to escape, he told RFAs Uyghur Service.

Isa echoed the CEECs call for Washington to intervene in the Morocco, Saudi and Kazakhstan cases, but also to take steps at home to help Uyghurs seeking asylum.

I also urge the U.S. government to speedily review and approve the hundreds of asylum applications of the Uyghurs in the U.S. who have been waiting for years, he said.

Reported by Alim Seytoff for RFAs Uyghur Service. Written by Paul Eckert.
Samsung has started rolling out the February 2022 Android security patch to the Galaxy A51. The popular premium mid-range phone from 2020 joins the Galaxy Note 20 series, Galaxy S20 series, and the Galaxy A50s in receiving the latest security update from the Korean company.

The Galaxy A51 is picking up the new SMR (security maintenance release) with firmware version A515FXXS5EVA1. As of this writing, the update is available in Latin America. Users in pretty much all major countries in the region should now be able to download the new security patch over the air (OTA), including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, and Uruguay. The rollout should reach other regions, including the US, in the coming weeks.

This update is unlikely to bring any new features or enhancements to the Galaxy A51. Its all about the new security patch, which should contain dozens of privacy and security vulnerability fixes from both Samsung and Google. Unfortunately, we dont yet have details about those fixes as well. Samsung is expected to publish the updated security bulletin with the content of the February SMR next week after Google has released the new patch to its Pixel phones.

Advertisement

Galaxy A51 is awaiting the Android 12 update

The Galaxy A51 arrived with Android 10 onboard in late 2019. It received the Android 11 update last year. The device is awaiting the Android 12 update. The latest version, which will come with Samsungs One UI 4.0 on top, should be available in the coming months. It will bring a plethora of new features and enhancements. The mid-ranger is also eligible for one more Android OS update: Android 13.

It is, meanwhile, now receiving this months security update. As said before, Samsung has also released the new SMR to a few more Galaxy devices over the past week. The Korean brand has been consistently the first Android OEM to roll out a new security patch to its devices and this month was no different. You can expect more Galaxy smartphones and tablets to join the party in the coming days.

Meanwhile, if youre rocking the Galaxy A51 and living in Latin America, you can navigate to Settings > Software update and tap on Download and install to download the new security update. If theres no OTA update available, check back again later. Users in other regions can also look forward to receiving the latest security patch in the coming days. Stay tuned for the Android 12 update.
A TD has offered to send badges supporting the decriminalisation of drugs to Twitter followers who provide him with their home address.

Deputy Aodhan O'Riordain's tweet comes following today's (Thursday February 3) confirmation by the Taoiseach of a plan to suggest a citizens' assembly on Ireland's biodiversity to Cabinet.

The news has prompted talk of a long-awaited citizens' assembly on drugs.

In his tweet, the deputy said, "Late night in Leinster House and momentum appears to be building for a Citizens Assembly on drugs. This could our one chance to radically overhaul failed drug policy and save lives. If you agree we must decriminalise the drug user [direct mail] me your address and Ill send you a #DECRIM badge."

You can also email me for a badge at aodhan.oriordain@oir.ie. Please include your address. #decrim https://t.co/IcxLb5po4R  Aodhan O Riordain (@AodhanORiordain) February 3, 2022

It's not the first time he has offered to send like-minded followers badges to show their support for decriminalisation, with a similar notice released on his official Twitter page in July 2021.

Deputy O'Riordain has raised the issue in the Dail multiple times, stating last May: "There is a commitment in the programme for Government to establish a citizens' assembly on the issue of drugs. There is growing momentum for a radical rethink of our entire drug strategy. We have the third highest overdose rate in Europe and there is a belief that this supposed war on drugs is killing marginalised people. There is a view that we need to decriminalise the drug user - not decriminalise drugs or legalise them, but take the drug user out of the criminal justice system."

The current government committed in 2020 to hold a citizens' assembly on drug use, with Irish advocates and activists hoping it would be an opportunity to rethink Ireland's drug policy.

The previous government also committed in 2016 to support "a health-led rather than criminal justice approach to drug use".

However, a citizens' assembly on decriminalisation has not been confirmed, despite Taoiseach Micheal Martin re-iterating the promise to Deputy O'Riordain in the Dail in May last year.

He called the deputy "a constant advocate in respect of this matter" and said, "We have committed to establishing citizens' assemblies on a number of issues, including the Dublin Lord Mayor, biodiversity and drugs. I will come back to the Deputy on their sequencing and prioritisation."

Independent Senator Lynn Ruane, commented on the promised legislation as well, stating on Twitter: "If I was a Minister with responsibility for the Drug Strategy I would be front and centre of the call and advocacy for a Citizens Assembly on Drugs. Imagine being a minister at such an exciting time. The expertise you would have access to and the solutions that could arise."

MEP Luke 'Ming' Flanagan responded to her tweet and said, "I dream of it. The chance to change it all. Hard to follow what going on and not despair."
MCLA, Habitat for Humanity to Offer Free Tax Assistance

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and its Department of Business Administration will once again partner with Habitat for Humanity to offer free tax preparation services to local residents in need through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

Habitat for Humanity administers VITA, a program of the IRS, to assist taxpayers with disabilities or limited English speaking skills, those 60 years of age or older, or individuals who make $57,000 or less per year. MCLA students will be available to complete both basic and advanced returns, including those with itemized deductions.

The students who participate in this program undergo a rigorous training, become IRS certified, and will work under the supervision of MCLA Professor of Accounting Tara Barboza, an enrolled agent with the United States Department of the Treasury and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

"Participating in the VITA program is a unique opportunity that will provide students with valuable, hands-on preparation experience," Barboza said.

Interested individuals should call Habitat for Humanity offices at (413) 442-0002 or (413) 442-3181 to find out if they qualify, and to schedule an appointment. MCLA students will begin to see clients on Monday, Feb. 7, 2022. Hours will be Mondays and Wednesdays from 4-8 p.m. in MCLA's Murdock Hall, on the MCLA campus in North Adams. The program will continue through April 13, 2022.
On Thursday, John took to Instagram and shared the update with his followers.

"Get ready to witness our country's first super soldier and his strike to save the nation's pride. Attack-Part 1 releasing in cinemas worldwide on 1st April, 2022," he wrote.

'Attack did not release last month owing to rising COVID-19 cases in the country. Jacqueline Fernandez and Rakul Preet Singh are also a part of the upcoming film. (ANI)
Montreal, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. High around 55F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low 44F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
03.02.2022 LISTEN

Seldom do days align like today; 02-02-2022, so let us dare a narrative of a perfect African Story. I launched my second book, Be The Difference exactly two years ago, a book a senior journalist reviewed in pretty glorious terms (A book that makes a difference  Home | Goldstreet Business). The book has gone on to receive pretty interesting reviews and I recommend you get a copy (Be The Difference: A Leadership Roadmap for the New African | AfricaLearn). The point to be made however is that, as the book has evolved over the last two years, the world that existed at the time of the publication may never exist again (So much change has occurred, driven in part by coronavirus with its lasting impact for societies, leadership, businesses, trade and economics) and yet Africa, my beloved continent, suffers from a socioeconomic construct that dates the 19th Century- A European construct that was designed to optimise Europeans scramble for the continent. In the words of British Prime Minister Lord Salisbury: We Have Been Engaged In Drawing Lines Upon Maps Where No White Mans Feet Have Ever Trod; We Have Been Giving Away Mountains And Rivers And Lakes To Each Other, Only Hindered By The Small Impediment That We Never Knew Exactly Where The Mountains And Rivers And Lakes Were.

As I reflect on the nature of the world as it may exist in the future, I share with you some stories from the past, stories I hope will be relevant for the foretelling of the African future. First the Gregson of Liverpool in 1771.

William Gregson was born 12th January 1721 in Liverpool, a son of a porter and a man of poor means but appears of big ambitions. He worked in the shipping industry as a rope maker in his youth but formed a syndicate with his friends to invest in a ship, Carolina. Carolina was not exactly a pretty babe; she was a slave ship. The interesting thing is that, Gregson was twenty-three years old, yes 23 when he started trading in slaves from Africa to Liverpool. By the time of his retirement, Gregson had been in the business of slavery for half a century. At the time of Gregsons death in 1800, he had become one of Liverpools leading citizens and businessmen and had branched out into the insurance and banking industries. Over the course of his life, it is estimated that he had a stake in 152 known slave voyages, and thus was responsible for investing in vessels that had carried over 58,201 Africans (out of which almost 10,000 died on the journey) to the Americas. It is also interesting to note that his first voyage records having tricked 32 Negroes to becoming slaves and oversaw one of the worst enslaved massacres-The Zong massacre (a mass killing by crew of about 130 enslaved Africans on 29th November 1781).

So there goes our first story, a noble Englishman who was nothing but a pauper who made wealth in a lifetime to honour a citys recognition by tricking, raiding, killing, and selling Africans to work on plantations in the Americas.

The second story is from 1800 Nigeria: Jaja of Opobo. A boy of no means and perhaps of equal ambition as Gregson. Some say kidnapped as a boy and sold into slavery (others say a servant) to Chief Alali, the head of the Opobo people. The stories say Jaja bought his own freedom (or adopted into the family) and rose to become a leader of the house. In 1869 during a dispute over factions, he broke away to establish his own settlement and controlled significant palm oil trade. Some say, he killed his own people in order to maintain monopoly as a trader with the English. He however will not yield his land to the English who had become owners of modern-day Nigeria after the Berlin Conference, the Conference that drew the artificial border across the continent. His resistance led Henry Hamilton Johnson, the British vice consul to deceive him by inviting him for a negotiation where he was captured and exiled. The interest in Jaja is about his support to the Queen of England by sending soldiers to fight against the Asante people in Gold Coast (modern day Ghana) for which he was awarded a sword of honour in 1871. Jaja was therefore a man who chose to make wealth at the expense of his people, he profiteered and even fought alongside the slavers against other African communities in other to curry the favour of the English and yet even after a medal of honour for fighting the Asante people for the English, he was captured by the English and exiled himself. If anybody knew the pain of slavery and harm of men like Gregson, it ought to be Jaja and yet, he saw his future only as the slavers, following after them painfully to his own betrayal after betraying many other Africans.

My final story is from the Asante people. The Asante people had several fights with the English in a series of wars known as the Anglo-Ashanti wars which span 1823 to 1900. The Asante people had lost the battle at Dodowa being the third of the wars. (Jajas soldiers may have fought in this war together with the British and the coastal forces from Gold Coast.) This loss was the beginning of the weakening of the warrior empire of the Asante. Not long after the defeat the Asante kingdom witnessed a civil war between Kumase and Dwaben for which Nana Kwasi Boaten sought refuge from Akyem Abuakwa.

Nana Kwaku Dua II became the leader in time, with efforts to rebuild the weakening empire but he died only after 40days on the throne. The kingdom had no king for 4 years between 1884 and 1888. No leadership for almost half a decade as within the four years, a fierce contest and another civil war ensued over who should be the next leader: Yaw Atwereboana or Prempeh? The civil war was bloody and Prempeh won, some say coupled with the assistance given by the local British administration that led to the enstoolment of Prempeh in the presence of an English officer, Captain E.A Barnett in 1888. It appears friendship with the enemy was esteemed more valuable than reconciliation of brothers. A king who ought to rebuild a kingdom divided and under siege sought help from the same Englishmen who were conquering his kingdom, to pursue his own ends, to defeat his brother in a civil war in order to become king.

Just about a decade into his reign he is captured with 55 others (chiefs, wives and war generals) detained in Cape Coast and Elmina castle for 1 year and then taken to Sierra Leone and finally to Seychelles. It was during this time that the last of the Anglo-Ashanti wars were fought with Yaa Asantewaa leading, but Prempehs reign saw the complete ruin of the Asante Empire and the Confederacy itself (On Prempehs return from Seychelles, the Asante Confederacy was reconstructed on 31st January 1935).

To end my historical rant in pursuit of the perfect African narrative, I am reminded of the changing times and yet the unchangeable principle of leadership and influence, an art and a science the African must learn and master in this changing world. To conclude, this is the moral of my stories:

Any race, including the colonisers, only seek to optimise their existence. Slavers may influence seemingly to the benefit of the enslaved but there is never a free lunch. We have been given an artificial border and a nationality that was drawn by Europeans. When they barely knew the land they took, they fought to possess it and have almost defined it in their image even after centuries. The stories of men like Jaja and Prempeh remind us of one thing: Do not seek help from they who seek your doom. Pursuing self interest, factionalism and disunity may appear human but it has become the bane of our enslavement. The African must learn the single most important lesson: Collaboration with other Africans.

The historical journey was only to say, I hope we stop fighting ourselves and recognise that the future is in our hands. I hope we can curate a perfect African story with a united front and not divisiveness and civil wars. The foundational tale of the formation of the Asante Empire was a dream by Nana Obiri Yeboah, a dream of a broom that cannot be broken together and yet easily destroyed as individuals. The future of Africa is limitless, but we must paint the picture-perfect tomorrow together, together as a people with a common heritage and a shared destiny. We must rise beyond the false nationalism cast upon us by artificial borders and remember our ancient civilisations were mightier and expansive and our sense of self was no diminutive because we saw ourselves in the image of God and custodians of His earth. My name is Yaw Sompa and my cry is Ubuntu.
A pro-government commentator thinks that PM Orban managed to broker important economic deals with President Putin. A liberal commentator, on the other hand, thinks that President Putin used the Hungarian leaders visit for propaganda purposes.

In their five-hour meeting on Tuesday, Prime Minister Orban and President Putin discussed economic cooperation between Russia and Hungary. Among other things, they agreed that Russia will increase the volume of natural gas transfers by one billion cubic meters a year to Hungary.



President Putin said that in Europe, Hungary buys Russian gas at the lowest price. President Putin and PM Orban also discussed the Ukraine crisis. Prime Minister Orban said that no European leader wants war with Russia, adding that Hungary as member of the EU and NATO wants to maintain good relations with Moscow.



At the same press conference, in his first public remarks on the Ukraine crisis for several weeks, President Putin accused the West of breaching an agreement with Moscow by admitting former Warsaw Pact counties to NATO.



Magyar Nemzets Laszlo Szocs sees the meeting as a diplomatic bravura. The pro-government columnist thinks that despite Moscows tense relations with the EU and NATO, President Putin and PM Orban brokered deals that are beneficial for both countries, including gas transfers, the opening of a Sputnik vaccine factory in Hungary, the possibility of more direct flights between the two capitals and speeding up the Paks II nuclear plant project.



Such economic deals serve the interest of Hungary, and are purely of a business nature, rather than part of greater geopolitical arrangements that Hungary as a small country has no leverage over anyway, Szocs contends.



In Heti Vilaggazdasag, by contrast, Gabor Kovacs writes that Putin used PM Orban for his own purposes without offering anything meaningful in return. The liberal commentator downplays the importance of the announced trade agreements.



He suggests that some had in any case already been agreed on, and the rest are simply vague promises, lacking concrete detail. As for the natural gas deal, Kovacs notes that as market prices will change in the future, it cannot be taken for granted that Hungary made a good deal in the long run. Kovacs also believes that President Putin will use PM Orbans endorsement to strengthen his image in Russia through the state media.



The most important message of the meeting, as he sees it, was President Putins demand that Eastern European countries should not be part of NATO. This applies to Hungary as well, even if President Putin did not mention the country by name, Kovacs concludes.



This opinion does not necessarily represent the views of XpatLoop.com or the publisher.

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One of the oldest places in Hungary, Esztergom is a city in northern Hungary, just 46 kilometres northwest of the capital Budapest.

The seat of the Hungarian Catholic Church, it lies in Komarom-Esztergom county on the right bank of the river Danube, which forms the border with Slovakia there

- so you can also visit another country with ease from here, even if just for a little shopping...



Top things to do in Esztergom

The Basilica of Esztergom, a masterpiece of Classicism, is the third largest church in Europe. Established around 972 AD, Esztergom has always played an important role in Hungary's history.



It was the birth and coronation place of the first Hungarian king, St. Stephen, as well as the capital of Hungary until the 13th century.



After the Mongolian invasion, King Bela IV moved the Royal Seat to Visegrad and later to Buda, giving his palace to the archbishop and making Esztergom a religious center.



The majority of the historic sites and the city's architectural heritage are of a religious nature:

Primate's Palace, the Franciscan monastery, and several chapels and churches.

Remains of the former royal palace, Turkish, Classicist and Baroque buildings, as well as the Basilica, attract many visitors.



One of the newest additions to Esztergom is the Maria Valeria Bridge, which connects the city with Slovakia. Esztergom is often nicknamed as the 'City of St. Stephen' and the 'Hungarian Rome'.



1. Basilica of Esztergom

The seat of the Catholic Church in Hungary was built on the site of the first cathedral in the country, where the first Hungarian King St. Stephen was crowned in 1000 AD.



Rebuilt during the 1800s in Neo-Classicist style, this is the largest church in Hungary. Pope John Paul II visited the Basilica during his trip to Hungary in 1991.

The Basilica of Esztergom is depicted on the 10,000 HUF banknote.



2. Royal Palace

The reconstructed remains of the former royal palace founded by Prince Geza, father of King St. Stephen, are in the neighborhood of the Basilica. Today, the building is home to a museum.



3. Watertown

Vizivaros, or Watertown in English, built on the banks of the Danube, is home to several baroque churches; however, ruins of medieval fortresses, city walls and Turkish bastions can also be seen when strolling around this part of the city.

Surrounded by Baroque churches and Classicist buildings, the Primate's Palace also stands here.



4. Christian Museum (Kereszteny Muzeum)

The world's third-largest diocesan museum after the Vatican and Munich (Freising), this museum houses the largest ecclesiastical collection in Hungary.

It features Hungarian, Italian, Dutch, German and Austrian art works from the 13th century up to the 19th century. The museum is located in the north wing of the Neo-Renaissance-style Primate's Palace.



Getting to Esztergom from Budapest:

One of the options is to take the hydrofoil. Boats leave from Vigado ter (Pest) and the ride takes about one and a half hour.

Trains run from Budapest's Nyugati Station. Buses leave from the Arpad hid bus terminal.

By car, Esztergom is about an hour's drive from Budapest and Route 10 is the quickest way to get there.



This 'Xploring Hungary' feature is part of a series on XpatLoop sponsored by U-Save Auto Rental - Wherever the road leads U-Save!



Source: visitbudapest.travel
LINWOOD  Dr. Andrew Renny and his wife Barbara Harvis recently endowed a $25,000 scholarship to Stockton University in memory of Rennys parents, Marcell and Catherine Renny.

Born in Hungary, Marcell and Catherine survived the Holocaust and made a new life together in Budapest until the Hungarian revolution in 1956, when they left for America with their two sons. The couple were reticent to tell their story of survival, but they did open up later in life and were involved with the Sara and Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center at Stockton.

Renny said his parents were an amazing and resilient couple.

My parents lost everything twice, and yet they were not bitter people, they never wanted to be defined as victims. They chose instead to focus on working hard and making the world a better place for their family and their community. They were so grateful they had survived and had the opportunity to create a good life for themselves in America, he said.

Marcell Renny lived in Budapest, and Catherine lived about 60 miles away in the city of Szolnok. The two met by chance during World War II. All Jewish men were forced into labor camps in 1941. Marcells commander would occasionally permit the men to have dinner at the home of a local Jewish family. By chance, he went for dinner at Catherines family home, where the couple first met in March 1944.

The Nazis invaded Hungary weeks later, took over Catherines family home as their headquarters and forced the family into a ghetto. They had to leave all their possessions behind. Catherines family was sent to a factory near the railroad station where they were put on a train and sent to a concentration camp in Austria. They remained there, suffering through starvation and working under brutal conditions until the camp was freed by the Russians in 1945.

Marcell escaped from his labor camp and returned to Budapest, where he secured fake Christian papers for his family and helped them escape from the Budapest ghetto. Marcell and his family survived by hiding from the Nazis in Budapest until the end of the war. When Catherine was released from the concentration camp, she went to Budapest and found Marcell. They were married six months later.

The young couple remained in Budapest. Marcell was successful, operated a textile factory and earned an engineering degree. Catherine went to college. They welcomed their two sons, but political unrest would again take everything from them. The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 sent them fleeing.

As Renny explained, his parents left Hungary with only a suitcase and their sons. They made a treacherous crossing into Austria, where they remained as refugees for two years, waiting for a visa to the United States. In 1958, they arrived in America.

Living in North Jersey with two small children, Marcell took the only work he could get, as a janitor in a factory. Through his hard work, he eventually became the vice president of a textile company. Catherine held many jobs and eventually became the office manager of a large local business.

They had again left everything behind and found the will to move forward and make a better life for our family, Renny said.

While living in North Jersey, my father became very active in his synagogue. When my parents moved to Ventnor to be closer to our family in 1999, my father became very active at Beth Judah. He helped people whenever he could. He said it was important to do a good deed every day. My parents began attending the Holocaust survivors luncheons, and they took part in the oral history testimony project for survivors at the Sam and Sara Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center and are featured in Portraits of Resilience, a book about Holocaust survivors who lived in South Jersey.

Harvis said when she first married into the family, she asked her mother-in-law questions about the Holocaust.

She did not speak much about it. I think many survivors had a difficult time speaking about it. I think it was painful to tell some of those stories and to relive them, Harvis said. My mother-in-law was such a loving person and was appreciative of what she had. She would frame stories that she told as miracles, and she would talk about how fortunate they were to have survived the horrors they went through when so many others did not.

Marcell Renny died in 2006 at 87. Catherine died in 2014 at 89.

Endowing a scholarship to Stockton seemed a fitting way to honor them. Harvis and Renny traveled to Poland and Germany on a study mission as part of the Holocaust and Genocide programs at Stockton.

Educating future generations about the Holocaust and understanding racism, hatred and antisemitism is a good way to honor my parents and to remember, Renny said.

The Catherine and Marcell Renny Holocaust Studies Memorial Endowed Scholarship will be managed by the Stockton Foundation and will make its first award in the 2022-23 academic year to undergraduate or graduate students with a demonstrated interest in Holocaust studies.

Holocaust Resource Center Director Gail Rosenthal said the scholarships are meaningful to students but even more so when they are connected to someone who has survived the Holocaust.

Our students understand the importance of continuing the lessons of the Holocaust for the next generation, Rosenthal said.

The Stockton Foundation will choose the recipients of the scholarship, Harvis said. We may get to meet them. It is our hope that when the students learn of the personal connection with survivors, they will be able to go forward and teach the lesson so this never happens again.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said that although the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) want the rule of only one ideology in the country, it can never happen. He was speaking after launching a financial assistance scheme of the Chhattisgarh government for landless labourers of rural areas.

Gandhi also attacked the BJP, saying the party and its ideology are taking India towards danger and added that division of the country is the biggest threat of that party. "When they ask what has been done in 70 years, they do not insult Congress, but our farmers and labourers," Gandhi said.

Gandhi arrived in Chhattisgarhs capital Raipur on a day-long visit to his party-ruled state. Apart from launching the scheme named 'Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhoomihin Krishi Majdoor Nyay Yojana' (RGGBKMNY), Gandhi laid the foundation stone of a memorial with an eternal flame, named Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti, to be built in Mana Camp area for soldiers and security personnel martyred in the line of duty. He also laid the foundation stone of Gandhi Sevagram' ashram in Nava Raipur, similar to the one in Wardha (Maharashtra).

Also Read  Rahul Gandhi thinks he is king of India: Rijiju

Earlier, on his arrival at the Swami Vivekanand Airport in Raipur from New Delhi around noon by a special aircraft, Gandhi was accorded a warm welcome by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, his cabinet colleagues, MLAs and senior party leaders at the airport, a government official said.

This is Gandhi's first visit to the state since the coronavirus pandemic broke out in the country in early 2020.

Under the RGGBKMNY, registered labourers in rural areas who do not possess agricultural land will be given financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per year in three instalments. Nearly 3.55 lakh landless families of labourers, barbers, blacksmiths, priests, forest produce collectors and shepherds, among others, will receive the first instalment of Rs 2,000 on the occasion under the scheme, the official said.

Watch the latest DH Videos here:
IT will be an historic night this Thursday, as the Freedom of Limerick is conferred for the first time in almost four years.

Cervical Check cancer campaigner Vicky Phelan will become only the fifth woman to receive the highest civic honour  and the first in 25 years, with Trudy Hunt being the last in 1997.

The ceremony takes place on Thursday evening at the councils headquarters in Dooradoyle. Numbers will continue to be restricted due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

But the event will be streamed live online by Limerick City and County Council.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Ms Phelan said she is absolutely honoured and delighted to accept the honour.

It was back in 2014 that the mum-of-two was first diagnosed with cancer. Since it returned, she has used her formidable determination to challenge and question the medical service provided both to her and other women.

In 2011, she had taken part in the national cervical screening programme, with her test results wrongly reported as normal, a fact withheld from her.

Only two years later, she developed cancer, with her experience serving as the catalyst for the establishment of a redress scheme to financially compensate women with cervical cancer.
A COUNTY Limerick man who went for a hike up Torc Mountain in Killarney National Park says he nearly died on the way down.

Scotty Meehan, aged 31, from Askeaton said he is "lucky to be alive" after he was attacked by a stag and pinned to the ground with its antlers.

He said he went for a hike up the mountain on Saturday, January 8 and was on his way down when he noticed a tree stripped of its bark.

"It was about 4.30 / 5pm. I was on my own. I was about 200 metres from the car. I heard this kind of coughing sound behind and I thought nothing of it. Then I heard the sound of hooves behind me. I looked around and there was me man a few hundred yards away from me.

"It was a massive red stag. He was roaring and frothing at the mouth. He was going mad. He was about 100 metres away from me. He charged at me," recalled Scotty.

Next thing, he says, he was on the ground.

"He caught me on my leg and got my knee. I caught him by the antlers and I was kind of struggling with him. I got him off my knee for about five seconds and next thing, bang, he landed on my left arm and pinned me to the ground. He was face-to-face with me.

"I said the only way to get out of this now is with my right hand that is free. I had to think fast. I just kept punching the side of his head until he let me go. It was the only way I could get free. The next second I looked up and he was gone."

Scotty tried to run to his car but could only walk due to the "severe pain". He drove off but after a few minutes he couldn't drive anymore.

"I rang my parents who came down and collected me and my car. I went to the Shannondoc in Newcastle West. They told me go straight to hospital, so I went to hospital in Limerick then.

"My left knee was scrope asunder. I'm only after now getting into a tracksuit because it's healing up. For the last few weeks I was in a pair of shorts to let the air get at it to heal it. I fractured my left shoulder, I've to go into the hospital this week about that and I've a lot of bruising. I'm out of work since. I can't drive or nothing like."

Scotty, who is six foot tall and weighs 120kgs, shared his story to warn other walkers and hikers.

"I met two or three families coming down out of there when I was going up. I said to myself afterwards if a stag attacked a woman on her own or a small kid... I rang the Killarney National Park and reported it. I was talking to a ranger. I was onto Michael Healy Rae about it too. I heard a woman was hospitalised by a stag the other day".

The Irish Examiner reported a woman sustained injuries and had to be airlifted to hospital after being attacked by a stag in Glencar, Kerry on Saturday, January 22.

The Leader contacted the National Parks and Wildlife Service through the Department of Housing about the alleged incident.

A spokesperson said: "National Parks and Wildlife Service staff in Killarney National Park were notified on January 20 of an incident involving a member of the public and a deer in the vicinity of Torc Mountain which was alleged to have taken place some days beforehand."

Scotty says his hiking days are over for the time being.

"I got a couple of photos at the top and that's me done for there now. I've enough of it seen. I'm lucky to come away with my life out of it."
TOKYO  A Japanese flag, brought to America by a U.S. Navy sailor from the Battle of Okinawa, has been returned to the family of the soldier who carried it into battle more than three quarters of a century ago.

The signature-covered flag, brought home from the war by James Ellis Mercer, was returned by his daughter Linda Hahn, 72, of Concord, Calif.

Many Japanese soldiers carried the red and white flags inscribed with names and messages from family and friends for good luck.

The flag was accepted by Yoshinori Goto, 45, of Oita city, the grandson of Kesaji Goto, a Japanese Imperial Army soldier who carried the flag and died July 1, 1945, on Okinawa. The ceremony, which Hahn didnt attend, took place Jan. 16 at the Gokoku Shrine in Oita.

Mercer, a machinists mate from Goodland, Kan., served aboard the seaplane tender USS Bering Strait. The warship supported aircraft that rescued dozens of downed airmen and sailors from stricken vessels during the Battle of Okinawa from April to June 1945.

The flag was folded inside an album of war photographs left by Mercer, who died in 2003 at age 83, Hahn said in a telephone interview Wednesday.

The family knew he served on Okinawa but not many other details of his wartime experience.

He never talked about it, Hahn said. I dont think it was a real happy time for him.

After the war, Mercer set up a machine shop and worked on heavy vehicles such as forklifts and trucks, she said.

A retired bank employee and mother of one, Hahn contacted the Obon Society in September after hearing about their work from a friend. The nonprofit group helps veterans and their families return old war trophies like flags and swords.

I thought in my heart that if the situation were reversed and it was my son who was getting something from my father, I would want that, she said.

The society tracked down Kesaji Gotos relatives within a couple of months. Goto was from Fujiwara village in Oita prefecture. His name is written on the flag in kanji characters.

I am thankful that they had kept it until now and even decided to return it, Yoshinori Goto, an employee of the Oita prefectural government, told Stars and Stripes by phone.

Kesaji Goto died in his early 30s and left behind a wife and 1-year-old son, his grandson said.

The family tomb includes an engraving of Kesaji Gotos name. So does a monument at the Peace Memorial Park on Okinawa, Yoshinori Goto said.

The family kept a photo of their fallen relative but didnt talk about him a lot. It was a surprise when the War-Bereaved Families Association contacted them about the flag, he said.

Some Japanese relatives of war dead, citing little or no connection with the original owners, decline to receive returned flags, but Goto had no hesitation accepting it, he said.

The news was a bolt out of the blue, he said. I definitely wanted to receive it.

The flag includes his fathers name, Shoji Goto, between his grandparents names.

This shows that my father was either born or at least his name was picked when my grandfather went to war, he said.

The flags return gave him a chance to talk about his grandfather with his children, he said.

I hope people will take an opportunity to think about peace, Yoshinori Goto said.

Although he had seen a photograph of the flag before receiving it, it felt different touching it, he said. It tells a story, he said. I felt the soul of my grandfather.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. Armenia has repeatedly announced that it is interested in the demarcation process of the state border with Azerbaijan, Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan told reporters today, recalling the agreement approved with a statement by the leaders of Armenia, Russia and Azerbaijan about that matter.

On November 26, 2021, the leaders of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia adopted a trilateral statement in Sochi, according to which they agreed to take steps to increase the level of security and stability on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border and move the process to creating a bilateral commission dealing with the border delimitation and demarcation between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

We are committed by 100% to that statement and to this principle, this commitment which we have assumed, the FM said.

Mirzoyan also said that Yerevan is now discussing with Moscow and Baku the security measures, which, according to the Armenian side, will create security and stability mechanisms on the border. The Armenian side has presented different proposals about the issue, to which Baku negatively reacted, however, this is a continuous process, according to the minister.
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Banks, businesses and financial institutions are being alerted to financial red flags that could indicate a person is being held against their will as a sexual slave.

A financial guide by AUSTRAC, the federal governments financial intelligence agency, is being distributed to a wide range of businesses and says signs of possible slavery operations include regular payments to hotels or short-term accommodation providers of more than $2000 a month, frequent ATM deposits of between $200 and $800 and payments to online merchants or classified sites of up to $10,000 a month.

A new guide outlines transactions that may indicate a person or people are being kept in sexual servitude. Credit:Jessica Hromas

Criminals involved in the forced sexual servitude trade are profiting from keeping people in terrible conditions that they cannot escape, said AUSTRAC chief executive Nicole Rose.

Its essential that we work together to recognise and stop this criminal activity, give voice to and protect victims.
Finalists Selected for Mohawk Trail Entrepreneurship Challenge

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.Four companies from the Mohawk Trail region have been selected as finalists for Lever's second Mohawk Trail Entrepreneurship Challenge.

These wood-based businesses now begin a startup acceleration to refine their business plans and pitches and work with mentors; the Challenge will culminate in a final pitch event in May 2022, where the winning company will receive a $25,000 innovation grant from Lever.

MTEC Finalists

The Cruckfather, LLC, Shelburne

The Cruckfather is a timber frame business that uses the old New England construction tradition to create timber-framed structures of all shapes and sizes. The Cruckfather's owner, Alan Spooner, aims to branch out into small-scale manufacturing, creating small-scale timber frames and structures on-site in Charlemont in addition to its on-location construction services.

Larkitecture, North Adams

Larkitecture is planning to address a major issue many people have with camping: uncomfortable sleep. The company plans to build and sell a "teardrop"-style camping trailer (a pod design with a retro feel) that is comfortable for overnight stays, no matter where it's parked. Their design will feature locally harvested wood products.

Hall Tavern Farm, Charlemont

Hall Tavern Farm is the oldest privately owned tree farm in Massachusetts. Its 350 acres, used as a farm since the 1920s, have been conserved through a state Agricultural Preservation Restriction, and it also offers custom sawing and milling services. Hall Tavern's team is planning to develop an on-site wood processing and forest education center that would serve as an incubator and equipment share for other wood-based businesses.

Coopers Wood Products, North Adams

Coopers Wood Products creates custom wood signs, mantles, beer taps, cabinets and more, frequently using reclaimed barn wood for its products. Coopers also produces large-volume wood items for other artists. Coopers' goal is to increase the amount of reclaimed wood used in its projects.

Designed with a focus on sustainability and job creation in the Mohawk Trail Woodlands Partnership Region, the MTEC is supported by a $60,000 grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA). The MTEC aims to maximize regional economic impact through businesses that can attract revenue from areas outside the Mohawk Trail region, create new jobs, and attract financing from multiple sources.
(Sharecast News) - Afentra confirmed on Thursday that negotiations with Sonangol to purchase interests in block 3/05 and block 23 in Angola had continued into the new year.The AIM-traded firm submitted a non-binding expression of interest for the two blocks in October, with its shares being subsequently suspended from trading.

Since submitting the expression of interest, Afentra said it had been engaged in negotiations with Sonangol to reach agreement on the detailed terms of the transaction.

Those negotiations were ongoing, but the board said there was no guarantee as yet that an agreement would be reached.

The acquisition would be subject to satisfactory completion of due diligence, and agreement of a sale and purchase deal with Sonangol.

Afentra said that if it ultimately proceeded with the acquisition, it would be classified as a reverse takeover under the AIM rules, and so trading in its shares would remain suspended until either the publication of an admission document, or confirmation that its participation in the bid process had ended.

The board said that while the timeline of the process had been extended beyond the previously-expected timetable, it had not diverted the company from the pursuit of other production assets in West Africa.

It said it was appraising "multiple acquisition opportunities" that would support its growth strategy in terms of acquiring assets across the region with solid low-cost production, proven reserves and significant upside.

The firm said it was "disciplined" in its screening process, to ensure all targets met the operational, commercial and environmental factors in its focussed acquisition criteria.

"We are pleased that we were selected by Sonangol to negotiate for block 3/05 and block 23 in Angola, and have been working diligently to find a mutually attractive outcome for both parties," said chief executive officer Paul McDade.

"Given our ambition to build an African business of scale, we also remain focussed on identifying additional value-accretive opportunities across West Africa and are engaged in a number of active acquisition processes.

"We continue to screen opportunities in jurisdictions that we know well and look forward to updating the market at the appropriate time on the first deal for the company."
Dublin, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Heat Exchanger Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2022-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global heat exchanger market reached a value of US$ 16.3 Billion in 2021. Looking forward, the publisher expects the market to reach US$ 23.4 Billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 6% during 2022-2027. Keeping in mind the uncertainties of COVID-19, they are 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



A heat exchanger refers to a device that is used for transferring heat from one fluid to another. It is used for controlling the temperature of a system or substance. It contains streams of hot and cold fluids, which are utilized to transfer thermal energy among the streams. They may be separated by a thermally conductive tube or plate or kept in direct contact if the fluids are immiscible. These devices assist in heating or cooling buildings as well as enable efficient functioning of engines and machines. As a result, they are widely utilized in boilers, furnaces, refrigerators, automotive radiators, sewage treatment and air conditioning systems



The significantly rising demand for heat, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) from industrial, commercial and residential sectors is primarily driving the growth of the market. This can be accredited to the inflating disposable income levels, changing living standards and extreme average climatic conditions across the globe. Moreover, rising environmental concerns amongst individuals regarding the use of energy-efficient and environment-friendly devices are also influencing the market growth. Governments of several countries have implemented stringent regulations to reduce carbon emissions across various industries, which are creating a positive outlook for the heat exchanger market. Furthermore, manufacturers are constantly engaging in research and development (R&D) activities in the heat exchange technology to launch cost-effective and efficient product variants, which is expected to drive the market growth further



Key Market Segmentation:

The publisher provides an analysis of the key trends in each sub-segment of the global heat exchanger market, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country level from 2022-2027. Our report has categorized the market based on type, material and end-use industry



Breakup by Type:

Shell & Tube

Plate & Frame

Air Cooled

Others

Breakup by Material:

Carbon Steel

Stainless Steel

Nickel

Others

Breakup by End-Use Industry:

Chemical

Petrochemical and Oil & Gas

HVAC and Refrigeration

Food & Beverage

Power Generation

Paper & Pulp

Others

Breakup by Region

North America

Europe

Others

Asia Pacific

Others

Latin America

Others

Middle East and Africa

Others

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined with some of the top heat exchanger manufacturers being Alfa Laval, API Heat Transfer Inc., Danfoss, General Electric Company, Hisaka Works, IHI Corporation, Johnson Controls, Kelvion Holding GmbH, Koch Industries, Lytron Inc., Mersen, Modine Manufacturing, Royal Hydraulics, Sondex A/S, Xylem Inc., etc



Key Question Answered in this Report

1. What was the global heat exchanger market size in 2021?

2. What is the impact of COVID-19 on the global heat exchanger market?

3. What will be the heat exchanger market outlook during the forecast period (2022-2027)?

4. What are the global heat exchanger market drivers?

5. What are the major trends in the global heat exchanger market?

6. What is the global heat exchanger market breakup by type?

7. What is the global heat exchanger market breakup by material?

8. What is the global heat exchanger market breakup by end use industry?

9. What are the major regions in the global heat exchanger market?



Key Topics Covered:



1 Preface



2 Scope and Methodology

2.1 Objectives of the Study

2.2 Stakeholders

2.3 Data Sources

2.3.1 Primary Sources

2.3.2 Secondary Sources

2.4 Market Estimation

2.4.1 Bottom-Up Approach

2.4.2 Top-Down Approach

2.5 Forecasting Methodology



3 Executive Summary



4 Introduction

4.1 Overview

4.2 Key Industry Trends



5 Global Heat Exchanger Market

5.1 Market Overview

5.2 Market Performance

5.3 Impact of COVID-19

5.4 Market Forecast



6 Market Breakup by Type

6.1 Shell & Tube

6.1.1 Market Trends

6.1.2 Market Forecast

6.2 Plate & Frame

6.2.1 Market Trends

6.2.2 Market Forecast

6.3 Air Cooled

6.3.1 Market Trends

6.3.2 Market Forecast

6.4 Others

6.4.1 Market Trends

6.4.2 Market Forecast



7 Market Breakup by Material

7.1 Carbon Steel

7.1.1 Market Trends

7.1.2 Market Forecast

7.2 Stainless Steel

7.2.1 Market Trends

7.2.2 Market Forecast

7.3 Nickel

7.3.1 Market Trends

7.3.2 Market Forecast

7.4 Others

7.4.1 Market Trends

7.4.2 Market Forecast



8 Market Breakup by End-Use Industry

8.1 Chemical

8.1.1 Market Trends

8.1.2 Market Forecast

8.2 Petrochemical and Oil & Gas

8.2.1 Market Trends

8.2.2 Market Forecast

8.3 HVAC and Refrigeration

8.3.1 Market Trends

8.3.2 Market Forecast

8.4 Food & Beverage

8.4.1 Market Trends

8.4.2 Market Forecast

8.5 Power Generation

8.5.1 Market Trends

8.5.2 Market Forecast

8.6 Paper & Pulp

8.6.1 Market Trends

8.6.2 Market Forecast

8.7 Others

8.7.1 Market Trends

8.7.2 Market Forecast



9 Market Breakup by Region



10 SWOT Analysis



11 Value Chain Analysis



12 Porters Five Forces Analysis



13 Price Indicators



14 Competitive Landscape

14.1 Market Structure

14.2 Key Players

14.3 Profiles of Key Players

14.3.1 Alfa Laval

14.3.1.1 Company Overview

14.3.1.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.2 API Heat Transfer Inc.

14.3.2.1 Company Overview

14.3.2.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.3 Danfoss

14.3.3.1 Company Overview

14.3.3.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.4 General Electric Company

14.3.4.1 Company Overview

14.3.4.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.4.3 Financials

14.3.4.4 SWOT Analysis

14.3.5 Hisaka Works

14.3.5.1 Company Overview

14.3.5.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.6 IHI Corporation

14.3.6.1 Company Overview

14.3.6.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.6.3 Financials

14.3.6.4 SWOT Analysis

14.3.7 Johnson Controls

14.3.7.1 Company Overview

14.3.7.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.8 Kelvion Holding GmbH

14.3.8.1 Company Overview

14.3.8.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.9 Koch Industries

14.3.9.1 Company Overview

14.3.9.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.9.3 SWOT Analysis

14.3.10 Lytron Inc.

14.3.10.1 Company Overview

14.3.10.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.11 Mersen

14.3.11.1 Company Overview

14.3.11.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.12 Modine Manufacturing

14.3.12.1 Company Overview

14.3.12.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.12.3 Financials

14.3.12.4 SWOT Analysis

14.3.13 Royal Hydraulics

14.3.13.1 Company Overview

14.3.13.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.14 Sondex A/S

14.3.14.1 Company Overview

14.3.14.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.15 Xylem Inc.

14.3.15.1 Company Overview

14.3.15.2 Product Portfolio

14.3.15.3 Financials

14.3.15.4 SWOT Analysis



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/rwpca5
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. Now, for the first time, a 22-year study in Tanzania has said that bed nets saved lives in the long run, which indicated that children who slept under them at an early age were more likely to survive into adulthood. The study was published in the 'New England Journal of Medicine'. It followed more than 6,700 children from 1998, tracking them again in 2019 to find out what happened to them. The results showed that survival of children who habitually slept under nets was over 40 per cent higher compared with survival in those who slept under nets less frequently in their early childhood. Surprisingly, there are very few long-term population-based studies in any African country. With over 6,700 participants recruited and remarkably high completeness of follow-up after 20 years, this study was particularly unusual and provided unique insight into the long-term benefits of malaria control in young children. Malaria killed more than 600,000 people in 2020 and is especially dangerous for children. The disease, which is common in sub-Saharan Africa, is caused by a parasite transmitted through mosquito bites. In malaria-endemic areas, sleeping under a bed net treated with insecticide is one of the most effective ways to protect young lives. Until now, however, the long-term effect of malaria control in early childhood has been unclear. The theory suggested that preventing malaria in early life could make people more vulnerable later in life due to a lack of immunity, simply delaying life-threatening illness and death. Estimates from this rare long-term observational analysis appear to counter this theory by finding no evidence that prevention in early life leads to a surge in deaths later on. The study was led by researchers from Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), and the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH). Dr Salim Abdulla, Principal Scientist at IHI and study author, said: "We have known for a long time that bed nets save young lives, but we never knew for sure how long the benefits persisted. Our study shows that preventing malaria in early childhood has effects that last into adulthood." Between 1998 and 2003, the study enrolled 6,706 children born in Kilombero and Ulanga Districts, a part of rural Tanzania where malaria is endemic. Up to 2003, a survey team visited the children's households every four months to collect information about the use of insecticide-treated bed nets. In 2019, 16 years later, the study team did a follow-up survey and was able to gather information relating to 89 per cent (5,983) of the original participants. Sadly, the team learned that over 600 of the children had died. When the researchers analysed the data from the study, they discovered a positive long-term impact of bed nets. They estimated the association between bed net use and survival, using regression modelling to adjust for other differences between groups. Dr Gunther Fink, Associate Professor of Epidemiology and Household Economics at the University of Basel and Swiss TPH, and first author, said: "It's so important to be able to go back and find out what happens to children when they grow up. Bed nets have been a huge part of malaria control efforts, and continue to be part of the toolkit. It is reassuring to see these long-term benefits, which further highlight the remarkably high returns to investing into early childhood infectious disease prevention and early life health more generally." Dr Joanna Schellenberg, Professor of Epidemiology and International Health at LSHTM and last author on the paper, said: "It's remarkable that we were able to find information on nearly all these children born two decades ago. "While our study shows the survival benefit of early-life malaria control persists until adulthood, it also reveals the potential of long-term community-based research. It's a testament to the deep social connections the interviewers had in the study communities, as well as making the most of mobile phone coverage." Co-author Sigilbert Mrema, Research Scientist with IHI, said: "One of our respondents was overjoyed simply to be told his exact date of birth. This type of long-term study is important not only in monitoring health but also in strengthening civil registration." (ANI)
CHARITIES and community groups across Limerick are being invited to apply for funding under Aldi's Community Grants 2022.

As part of the initiative, Aldi staff in Limerick and across the country will distribute more than 160 bursary grants (500 each) totalling more than 80,000.

The retailer says three grants will be distributed amongst Limerick charities and community organisations. Staff from each of Aldis Limerick-based stores (Childers Road, Castletroy and Newcastle West) will select a charity or community organisation in their local area to award the bursary to.

Charities or organisations who wish to put themselves forward for the bursary donation can apply at their local Aldi store.

The initiative was launched by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys at Aldis Carrickmacross Store in County Monaghan.

Our charities and community groups have gone above and beyond in recent months, supporting some of our most vulnerable citizens during the middle of a pandemic. I really welcome the announcement that Aldi will be supporting even more local causes through its Community Grants programme in 2022. These grants represent an important contribution for many of these organisations who continue to play a critical role in the communities they serve," said Minister Humphreys.

Supporting and recognising the work of local community organisations is a priority for Government and underpins our five year rural development strategy, Our Rural Future. It is fantastic to see Aldis staff directly helping local good causes that they are clearly passionate about," she added.

John Curtin, Group Buying Director, Aldi Ireland said: While the past two years have certainly been challenging for many charities and community groups across the country, it is important now as we return to some normality that we continue to support the local organisations that make such a difference to the lives of so many in our communities.

By the end of 2022, Aldis Community Grants programme will have donated 537,000 to over 1,000 local charity branches and community groups across Ireland since its inception in 2016.

Receiving charities and organisations have ranged from rescue teams to animal sanctuaries, disability support to mental health support, and everything in between.
SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Current Foods, formerly Kuleana, rebrands itself as it enters the direct-to-consumer market with sushi-grade, plant-based, and ready-to-eat seafood. TIME magazine named Current Foods plant-based tuna one of 2021's Best Inventions and called it "the catch of tomorrow." Now, that catch of tomorrow is available in the current. Current Foods is the first plant-based seafood with taste, texture, and nutritional density that goes toe-to-toe with the traditional stuff and it will soon be available for consumers to order to their doorstep.



Beginning today, Current Foods will be opening up website sign-ups to get on the early access waitlist to shop its D2C plant-based tuna and salmon. Previously the product was only available and served through restaurants and food service, including Erewhon Market, Blue Sushi Sake Grill, and Matthew Kenney Cuisine.

Since we began our company journey 3 years ago, our goal has been to create plant-based products that enable us to enjoy the best parts of seafood: taste, texture, and nutrition, without any of its usual drawbacks: mercury, microplastics, and oceanic depletion. The rollout of Current Foods  bringing the future of sustainable eating to the current  is a massive step forward in realizing this goal, says Jacek Prus, CEO and Cofounder of newly rebranded Current Foods. These products are now available for everyday consumption, from the comfort of home. Enjoy a Current Foods poke, ceviche, or crudo and restore our oceans health in one bite.

Meticulously formulated over 2 years by a team thats spent decades working in food science, Current Foods has always gone one step further than making plant-based seafood  the company makes seafoodthat just happens to be made from plants. This distinction guides the companys product development and its uncompromising standards on taste, texture, and nutrition.

Current Foods uses 100% plant-based ingredients including algae, bamboo, peas, and radish to provide consumers a taste of the ocean while staying true to its plant powered roots. The new addition of pea-protein to the products ingredient profile, brings a higher level of protein to the product, further fortifying the products original cocktail of omega-3 DHAs, iron, vitamin B12, and fiber, and preparing it to appeal to more Flexitarian and plant-curious eaters.

Readers will get early access to this next frontier of plant-based eating on currentfoods.com by signing up for their D2C waitlist, and be among the first to get the catch of tomorrow delivered to their door.

ABOUT CURRENT FOODS

Current Foods is the new school of fish, taking food science below sea level to make sushi-grade, ready-to-eat seafood entirely from plants. Earthly ingredients meets imaginative food science to create plant-based seafood products that are uncompromising in taste, texture, appearance, and nutritional density, including omega-3, iron, and vitamin B12. After a successful soft launch in Spring 2021, Current Foods is now rolling out nationwide in restaurants, retail, and e-commerce. Current Foods was founded in 2019, is headquartered in San Francisco, and backed by investors including Y-Combinator, Astanor Ventures, Cruise Automation founder Kyle Vogt, and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. For more information, please visit www.currentfoods.com .

MEDIA CONTACTS

Debbie Koke

debbie.koke@orcapr.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6b63b206-f0f1-4a53-8312-c8c6bbf2c2cc
REAL School Budapest is organising an Open House on Saturday, 5 February 2022 at 10am. The COBIS accredited international primary school (grades 1-8) opens the doors of its inspiring campus to interested families for an interactive session about its Relevant, Entrepreneurial, Art-filled Learning experience.

From Real School Team: Well keep it snappy so youll be home by lunch.

As much as we embrace challenges (who doesnt after the past two years?!), the chances are good that you will, in person, encounter:

Our principal, the founders and some of our dedicated faculty members

A hands-on experience of our learning programme

Some of our parents who are already busy rehearsing their lines about how wonderful the school is; and

Our delish plant-based food served from our planteen



And the best part (besides the free food, of course)? Some of our charming students are on hand to entertain your children through games and workshops.



The rest youll find on our website (www.realschool.eu). Or on social media. Or just ask us!



As participant numbers are limited, please fill out this less-than-a-minute-long registration form: https://forms.gle/GdtiF5Cgp6dQNqFL6



Its not too taxing and will help us prepare for the event.



Ps.: our team will of course take the necessary Covid19 precautions!



Click here to virtually visit Real School Budapest

1031 Budapest, Zahony utca 7.
The girls, who have been entering the campus wearing hijab, were asked to remove it at the waiting rooms before attending the classes.

The principal of the Government Degree College in Bhadravathi town of Shivamogga district, MG Umashankar said he had discussed the issue with the students and their parents.

"The issue has been solved now. They will not wear the Hijab in class," he stated.

This comes after students at a Chikkamagaluru college wore saffron shawls to mark their protest against girls wearing hijabs on campus.

On Tuesday, many students also staged a dharna over the same. The cops then entered the college premises and brought the situation under control.

Amid the protest, the principal of the college MG Umashankar convinced the students to withdraw the agitation. (ANI)
Muslim girl students of the government pre-university college at Kundapur in Udupi district wearing hijab (headscarf) were stopped at the gate by the college principal on Thursday and told that they are not allowed to wear hijab inside the classrooms.

When asked to remove the hijab to enter classrooms, the students argued with the principal and told him that the government order on the status quo has not mentioned the Kundapur college. The principal told them that the circular issued by the government applies throughout the state.

Also Read  Hijab row: 6 girls ignore order, sent out

The college had witnessed a grave situation on Wednesday when around 100 Hindu boys came to classes wearing saffron shawls to protest against the girls wearing hijabs inside classrooms. They, however, did not repeat their protest on Thursday.

A meeting called by Kundapur MLA Halady Srinivas Shetty with the Muslim girls and their parents failed to reach a consensus on Wednesday, with the parents insisting that their children had the right to wear hijabs.

Meanwhile, state Fisheries Minister and Udupi district-in-charge S Angara told reporters in Udupi that the status quo ordered by the state government disallowing hijabs inside classrooms will continue till the committee appointed to study the issue submits its report. Everyone has to follow the prescribed dress code in educational institutions. Different institutions cannot have different dress codes, he said.

Watch the latest DH Videos here:
Spain will put out to tender in the first half of 2022 projects worth up to 24.6 billion euros funded by the European Union recovery programme, a government source directly managing the plan said this afternoon.

After Italy, Spain is the second largest beneficiary of the 750 billion euro kitty set up to help the bloc's 27 countries recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, securing a total allocation of 70 billion euros.

Around 19.7 million euros were earmarked for public projects in 2021, though they were mostly issued towards the end of the year so they are largely still unawarded.

Spain has pinned significant hopes on the funds bolstering its tourism-dependent economy and had anticipated the roll-out would be quicker, so projected a GDP growth rate for 2021 of 6.5% though it eventually came in at 5%. The official forecast for 2022 is 7% growth, assuming the roll-out of the funds.



Up to 27.6 billion of EU recovery funds have been channeled through one of the largest budgets in Spanish history for 2022, with most due to be paid out in the first half of the year, according to the source.

The focus of the funds will be directed to sustainability and digitalisation projects. A total of 2.9 billion to kick-start the production of electric vehicles and batteries will be tendered "imminently", according to the government source. Around 5 billion euros more will be for making Spanish buildings more sustainable and energy efficient in the second quarter of the year.
IRON MAIDEN will play a headline outdoor show at the Grupama Arena on June 7th. Special guests will be Shinedown with support from Lord Of The Lost.

"One of the most famous heavy metal bands Iron Maiden, which has been active since 1975, just announced that they come to Budapest in their next European 'Legacy Of The Beast' tour in 2021.



Date and times:

TBD



Venue:

Puskas Arena

1091 Budapest, Ulloi ut 129.



More:

livenation.hu
(Newser)  The director of the World Health Organizations Europe office said Thursday the continent is now entering a plausible endgame to the pandemic and the number of coronavirus deaths is starting to plateau. Dr. Hans Kluge said at a media briefing that there is a "singular opportunity" for countries across Europe to take control of COVID-19 transmission due to three factors: high levels of immunization due to vaccination and natural infection, the viruss tendency to spread less in warmer weather, and the lower severity of the omicron variant, the AP reports. "This period of higher protection should be seen as a cease-fire that could bring us enduring peace," he said.

Kluge said the upcoming spring "leaves us with the possibility for a long period of tranquility and a much higher level of population defense against any resurgence in transmission." Even if another variant emerges, Kluge said, health authorities in Europe should be able to keep it in check, provided immunization and boosting efforts continue, along with other public health interventions. He stressed, however, this demands "a drastic and uncompromising increase in vaccine-sharing across borders," saying vaccines must be provided to everyone across Europe and beyond. Scientists have repeatedly warned that unless the majority of the worlds population is vaccinated, any opportunities for COVID-19 to keep spreading means it could mutate into deadlier and more transmissible forms.

Numerous countries across Europe, including Britain and Denmark, have dropped nearly all their coronavirus restrictions after saying that omicron has peaked. At WHO's Geneva headquarters, however director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned earlier this week that the world as a whole is still far from exiting the pandemic. "We are concerned that a narrative has taken hold in some countries that because of vaccinesand because of omicrons high transmissibility and lower severitypreventing transmission is no longer possible and no longer necessary," Tedros said Tuesday. "Nothing could be further from the truth." The agency has said even countries with high levels of vaccination should not succumb to political pressure and drop all of their coronavirus measures at once. (Read more coronavirus stories.)
Elizabeth Vargas was seen outside of her Newport Beach home on Wednesday just 24 hours after she was allegedly 'held at gunpoint' by an ex-boyfriend who had barricaded himself inside of it.

The Real Housewives of Orange County star had a huge smile on her face while chatting with a male friend outside of her residence.

The sighting comes as Elizabeth's manager revealed to the New York Post that she is 'shaken up' over Tuesday night's scary ordeal and that it was an 'extremely traumatizing experience' for her.

Spotted: Elizabeth Vargas was seen outside of her Newport Beach home on Wednesday just 24 hours after she was allegedly 'held at gunpoint' by an ex-boyfriend who had barricaded himself inside of it

Brave face: The Real Housewives of Orange County star had a huge smile on her face while chatting with a male friend outside of her residence

As she chatted with her friend, Elizabeth had one hand clutched around her dog Coda's leash.

The reality TV star had on a form-fitting grey dress and white slide sandals. Her blonde hair was worn down and she appeared to be wearing little to no makeup.

Despite her recent trauma, Elizabeth was still able to let out a few laughs during her friend's visit.

The unidentified male was casually dressed in a zip-up jacket, a grey tee, and black pants.

Before bidding farewell, Elizabeth gave him a huge hug and wandered back inside of her home.

Trauma: The sighting comes as Vargas' manager revealed to the New York Post that she is 'shaken up' over Tuesday night's scary ordeal and that it was an 'extremely traumatizing experience' for her

Furry companion: As she chatted with her friend, Elizabeth had one hand clutched around her dog Coda's leash

Dressed down: The reality TV star had on a form-fitting grey dress and white slide sandals

Pictures that were released on Wednesday show that Elizabeth's residence, which is located in the posh area called Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, has been boarded up following Tuesday's incident.

Hours after the ordeal with her 'aggressive' ex-boyfriend, Elizabeth's manager David Weintraub gave a statement to the New York Post.

'Liz is completely traumatized, and spent the entire night with police. She is so thankful to the Newport Beach Police Department, and the officers who saved her from this terrible incident. She is looking forward to getting back to normal life,' it read.

Farewell: Before bidding farewell, Elizabeth gave him a huge hug

Jovial: Despite her recent trauma, Elizabeth was still able to let out a few laughs during her outdoor visit with her friend

Relaxed: Her blonde hair was worn down

Natural: She appeared to be wearing little to no makeup

Casual: Her friend was casually dressed in a zip-up jacket, a grey tee, and black pants

She had briefly dated the man from the area, who allegedly became 'obsessed' with her and would show up to her home and places she often went to.

Elizabeth would occasionally help him out financially but TMZ insiders claim that his money demands became more 'aggressive.'

The star had originally contacted authorities to report him for extortion, believing that he was coming later that day to ask for more money.

After her call on Tuesday, the cops arrived to her home and watched it from a distance, but the ex was able to slip in.

Dramatic showdown: Photos taken Tuesday showed SWAT members carrying semiautomatic rifles as they enter Vargas' home in pursuit of her ex-boyfriend, who allegedly held her at gunpoint

Strength: Elizabeth captured giggling with her pal

Scary: Elizabeth Vargas' Newport Beach home was boarded up on Wednesday, 24 hours after her ex-boyfriend barricaded himself inside

The latest: The outlet's sources alleged that she was 'held at gunpoint' and 'roughed up' by the 'armed' man, who would not leave for 'some time'

While inside, he then allegedly 'held her at gunpoint' and 'roughed her up' before she was finally let go, according to the outlet.

The situation appeared to escalate as several SWAT officers were seen with their rifles aimed at the home, with cops also seen with armored vehicles, per TMZ.

The star was pictured leaving her home in a white robe with the man still inside; he barricaded himself in the home but then eventually surrendered to the cops.

What an ordeal: Her home seen one day after the scary incident

Tell tale: A closer look at her boarded up door of her home

In addition to the heavily armed and armored law enforcement members who surrounded the house, her residence was also surrounded by a militarized SWAT vehicle.

Although TMZ reported that one person was taken into custody following the altercation, they appear to have not been taking any chances.

Photos from the evening show a team of SWAT members going through the house, and they could also be glimpsed standing on the second floor balcony looking into another room from the outside.

Authorities had swept the home to ensure no one else was there on Tuesday, sources told the outlet.

Law enforcement told the outlet around 7:40 p.m. PT that one suspect was placed into custody with a 'felony crime,' and two others at large, according to the LA Times.

The Times also reported that the incident started at 1:50 pm with police making it public by 5 pm to alert residents.

Police told CBSLA that a standoff commenced at around 5:45 p.m. PT in the region of East Balboa Boulevard and Medina Way.

Breaking news: The Times also reported that the incident started at 1:50 pm with police making it public by 5 pm to alert residents

Later on Wednesday, police announced in a press release that Ryan Geraghty, 33, had been charged with assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, being a felon in possession of a firearm and extortion.

'Once inside the residence, police officers encountered an armed male suspect who was actively threatening the life of the victim,' the statement read.

While TMZ noted the ex-boyfriend was the only suspect, the Times reported that three people had allegedly barricaded themselves in the home and eventually all being arrested, but police later said that was incorrect information.

The Missouri-born Vargas was featured on the show's 15th season.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/raf-jets-reportedly-scrambled-as-foreign-aircraft-approach-uk-area-of-interest-1092715872.html

RAF Jets Scrambled for Second Time in Two Days to Intercept Aircraft Approaching UK Area of Interest

RAF Jets Scrambled for Second Time in Two Days to Intercept Aircraft Approaching UK Area of Interest

The incident is the second of its kind in less than 24 hours. On Wednesday, the Royal Air Force scrambled Typhoon jets to escort four Russian strategic bombers... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T11:30+0000

2022-02-03T11:30+0000

2022-02-03T12:21+0000

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Royal Air Force Typhoon jets operating out of Lossiemouth assisted by a Voyager Tanker aircraft were scrambled Thursday to intercept foreign aircraft operating near a UK area of interest, an RAF spokesperson has told reporters.A day earlier, Eurofighter Typhoons from the same air force base, and backed by the same Voyager tanker, were scrambled to intercept and escort four Russian 'Bear' aircraft north of Scotland. The Bear is the NATO reporting name for the Tupolev Tu-95, a nuclear capable strategic bomber, and the Tupolev Tu-142 (Bear F/J), a Russian maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft derived from the Tu-95.On Wednesday night, Russia's Northern Fleet confirmed that two Tu-142s from naval aviation were flown over the Northeast Atlantic Ocean in a drill to sniff out enemy submarines. The aircraft took off from the Vologda region (about 370 km northeast of Moscow) and proceeded over the Norwegian Sea to the mission area, and were joined along the route by two MiG-31 interceptor jets (the same type of plane which can be fitted with hypersonic Kinzhal missiles).The Northern Fleet indicated that the Russian aircraft were accompanied by fighter jets from the Norwegian and British air forces for part of their journey, and stressed that the flight "took place in strict accordance with international rules for the use of airspace over the neutral waters of the Barents and Norwegian Seas and the Atlantic Ocean."The RAF and the Norwegian air forces did not report any incidents involving the Russian jets during Wednesday's flyover.Also on Wednesday, the MoD announced that at least one Royal Navy warship had been deployed to "monitor" Russian naval vessels transiting through the English Channel.The operations come amid growing tensions between Russia on one side and the UK and its NATO allies on the other over the situation in Ukraine, where the West has spent months claiming that Moscow is poised for an "invasion" of its neighbour. Russian officials have dismissed these claims, and accused NATO of stoking tensions in a bid to beef up its military footprint along the eastern flank of allies ringing Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke by telephone on Wednesday, discussing Ukraine and Russia's proposals on security guarantees. Johnson travelled to Kiev on Tuesday to assure the Ukrainian government that it has British economic and weapons support against Russia.

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News in Italy: 21-gun salute and Frecce Tricolori flypast to mark return of Mattarella as head of state.

Italy's president Sergio Mattarella, who was re-elected at the weekend, will be sworn in during a pomp-filled ceremony in Rome on Thursday 3 February, the day his seven-year term of office had been due to expire.

Mattarella is expected to arrive at parliament buildings in Palazzo Montecitorio at 15.30, following a carabinieri escort from his presidential residence at Palazzo Quirinale.

The Montecitorio bells will herald the arrival of the president who will be greeted by carabinieri and met by the presidents of the chamber and senate, Roberto Fico and Maria Elisabetta Alberti Casellati.

Mattarella will be welcomed in the chamber of deputies - decorated with red drapes and 21 tricolour flags - by the 1,009 'grand electors' who voted in the presidential election along with prime minister Mario Draghi and members of the government.

The newly re-elected head of state will then take an oath in accordance with Article 91 of the constitution, reciting: "I swear to be faithful to the Republic and to loyally observe its Constitution."

21-gun salute

The swearing of the oath is marked by a 21-gun salute from the cannon on Rome's Janiculum Hill and the Montecitorio bells will ring out again.

Mattarella paying his respects to the Unknown Soldier at the Altare della Patria on 3 February 2015. Photo Corriere della Sera.

At this point Mattarella will deliver his address to parliament and the nation in a speech that should last about 20 minutes.

The president will then be escorted by Fico and Casellati to the gallery facing the courtyard where he will be welcomed by Draghi and receive military honours from the Corazzieri regiment.

Altare della Patria

The head of state will listen to Italy's national anthem before leaving Montecitorio for the Altare della Patria, travelling with the prime minister in the vintage Lancia Flamina 335 convertible, escorted by a Corazzieri on motorcycles.

Here, accompanied by the prime minister, he will pay homage to the Unknown Soldier and will be honoured with a flypast by the Frecce Tricolori.

Lancia Flaminia

After being greeted by Rome's mayor Roberto Gualtieri, the president of Italy will get back in the Lancia Flaminia 335 and, escorted by the Corazzieri on horseback, will reach the Quirinal palace.

Mattarella will receive military honours in the Courtyard of Honour at the Quirinale, with the presidential standard hoisted next to the Italian tricolour and the flag of the European Union.

Then Mattarella will enter the building, where in the Corazzieri Hall he will give a brief address to the authorities present.

How to watch on TV and streaming

Italy's main television networks will broadcast the swearing-in ceremony live, on Rai 1, La7 and Retequattro, in addition to news channels such as RaiNews24, SkyTg24 and Tgcom24.

It will also be possible to follow the ceremony in streaming via the Montecitorio Youtube channel while the inauguration ceremony at the Quirinale, from around 17.00, will be broadcast live by Rai and on the website and on the Quirinale YouTube channel.




Haiti - Floods : Toll increases 6 dead and 1 missing





Wednesday, February 2, Liszt Quitel, the Minister of the Interior accompanied by Jerry Chandler Director General of Civil Protection, went to Cap-Haitien after the torrential rains that fell on the North of Haiti.



Minister Quitel and Chandler met at the Departmental Emergency Operations Center (COUD) with the mayors and delegates of the main municipalities affected by the floods caused by the flooding of the main rivers of the department who presented the situation in their respective municipalities.



In the Northeast, Jerry Chandler visited the site of the Caracol Industrial Park power station, which was badly affected by the floods, before going to Malfety where a temporary shelter was opened for the inhabitants of this locality severely affected by the floods. bad weather on January 31.



In accordance with its coordination mission, Civil Protection has already deployed teams, alongside mayors, to assist victim families. Several national and international partners are also present in the field.



Wednesday at midday, a convoy of basic necessities was on hand to provide the first answers.



The latest data on these bad weather, shared by the departmental directorates, show 6 deaths in the North-West and North-East departments and at least one missing person.



The total number of affected households (p), amounts to 2,581 in the 22 affected municipalities and at least 2,578 houses have been flooded https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35859-haiti-news-zapping.html . More than 1,900 people took refuge in temporary shelters in Cap-Haitien and Fort-Liberte.



The departmental and municipal Civil Protection structures continue to monitor the weather situation in order to keep the population informed and remind them of the precautionary instructions.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35859-haiti-news-zapping.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35852-haiti-flash-torrential-rains-fall-on-haiti-many-municipalities-flooded-partial-report.html



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A stalker who left a woman suffering panic attacks and nightmares after sending threatening messages has been jailed for two and a half years.

Riagain Grainger, 22, of Rosnareen Road, Trillick, Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court today (Wednesday February 2) after he admitted stalking involving fear of violence, serious alarm and distress, a spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said.

In a statement his victim, a 21-year-old woman, said she suffered multiple panic attacks after Grainger began to send threatening messages from anonymous accounts in 2019.

She said: I never felt safe. I still dont feel safe. I still jump every time my phone rings.

I still feel sick every time I get a message from an unknown account.

I still have a panic attack every time I see someone who looks like him. I still cant even step foot on a bus, thinking he might be there watching me.

I have constant nightmares about him  about him attacking me, hurting me.

They started a couple of weeks after the messages started and they havent stopped.

Even now, every single night I am woken up by him. Every single night he is torturing me again.

Grainger was also made subject to an indefinite stalking prevention order.

A police spokesman said he sent messages, including threats to harm and kill, over a three-month period.

Grainger, who works as a film-maker, was charged in October 2019 after police seized his phone and found images of the victim and her home.

Detective Constable Thomas Small said: Stalking can have a devastating effect on a victim and their loved ones and I hope this sentencing shows that we take any reports of stalking and harassment seriously and are committed to bringing anyone found responsible to justice.

Everyone has the right to live their life without fear and harassment, and Grainger made that impossible for this young woman.

I would urge any victims of stalking or harassment to please take that brave step and report it to us.
The leader of the violent Islamic State group was killed during an overnight raid carried out by US special forces in Syrias northwestern Idlib province, President Joe Biden said Thursday.

The raid targeted Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, who took over as head of the militant group on Oct 31, 2019, just days after leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi died during a US raid in the same area.

A US official said al-Qurayshi died as al-Baghdadi did, by exploding a bomb that killed himself and members of his family, including women and children, as US forces approached.

The operation came as IS has been trying for a resurgence, with a series of attacks in the region, including a 10-day assault late last month to seize a prison.

US special forces landed in helicopters and assaulted a house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said. Residents described continuous gunfire and explosions that jolted the town of Atmeh near the Turkish border, an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syrias civil war.

First responders reported that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women.

Biden said in a statement that he ordered the raid to protect the American people and our allies, and make the world a safer place." He planned to address the American public later Thursday morning.

Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi - the leader of ISIS, Biden said in a statement. He said all Americans involved in the operation returned safely.

The operation marked a military success for the United States at an important time after setbacks elsewhere - including the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal - have led allies and opponents to conclude U.S. power globally was weakening.

The two-story house, surrounded by olive trees in fields outside Atmeh, was left with its top floor shattered and blood spattered inside. A journalist on assignment for The Associated Press and several residents said they saw body parts scattered near the site. Most residents spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

The mission was successful, Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said in a brief statement. There were no US casualties."

Idlib is largely controlled by Turkish-backed fighters but is also an al-Qaida stronghold and home to several of its top operatives. Other militants, including extremists from the rival IS group, have also found refuge in the region.

The first moments were terrifying; no one knew what was happening, said Jamil el-Deddo, a resident of a nearby refugee camp. We were worried it could be Syrian aircraft, which brought back memories of barrel bombs that used to be dropped on us, he added, referring to crude explosives-filled containers used by President Bashar Assads forces against opponents during the Syrian conflict.

The top floor of the low house was nearly destroyed; a room there had collapsed, sending white bricks tumbling to the ground below.

Blood could be seen on the walls and floor of the remaining structure. A wrecked bedroom had a childs wooden crib and a stuffed rabbit doll. On one damaged wall, a blue plastic baby swing was still hanging. Religious books, including a biography of Islam's Prophet Mohammad, were in the house.

Al-Qurayshi had kept an extremely low profile since he took over leadership of the Islamic State. He had not appeared in public, and rarely released any audio recordings. His influence and day-to-day involvement in the groups operations was not known and it is difficult to gauge how his death will affect the group.

His killing, however, is a significant blow just as the group had been trying to reassert itself in Syria and Iraq.

The opposition-run Syrian Civil Defence, first responders also known as the White Helmets, said 13 people were killed in shelling and clashes that ensued after the US commando raid.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, also said the strike killed 13 people, including four children and two women. Ahmad Rahhal, a citizen journalist who visited the site, reported seeing 12 bodies.

The Pentagon provided no details on casualties in the raid.

The Observatory said the troops landed in helicopters. Residents and activists described witnessing a large ground assault, with US forces using megaphones urging women and children to leave the area.

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A recent study by researchers at the Laureate Institute for Brain Research (LIBR) has identified an abnormal link between the autonomic and central nervous systems, more specifically, via the communication between the heart and part of the brain's frontal cortex, in women with a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The research findings titled, 'Association of Generalized Anxiety Disorder with Autonomic Hypersensitivity and Blunted Ventromedial Prefrontal Cortex Activity During Peripheral Adrenergic Stimulation,' was published in 'JAMA Psychiatry'. The team's objective was to test whether individuals suffering from GAD showed dysfunction in the neural circuitry underlying cardiovascular arousal and whether that may be associated with certain disorder-related symptoms such as anxiety and body sensation. To conduct the study, they completed a randomized clinical trial of 58 adult female participants (29 with GAD and 29 matching healthy comparisons). During the study, they stimulated the cardiovascular system using a medicine called isoproterenol, which mimics the effects of adrenaline but, unlike adrenaline, cannot cross the blood-brain barrier to directly impact brain activity. Intravenous infusions of isoproterenol or saline were administered during functional magnetic resonance imaging, allowing them to assess whether the brains of patients with GAD differ in the processing of information received from the body, a function known as 'interoception'. The main findings were that patients with GAD differed significantly from healthy participants on several variables, but only during the lower of two dosages of isoproterenol. Specifically, they perceived their heartbeats to be more intense and had relatively higher heart rates and lower neural activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, a brain area known to regulate the autonomic nervous system and to facilitate feelings of fear or safety. Self-reported anxiety was significantly higher only for those with GAD compared to healthy participants in response to either dose. For lead author Adam Teed, a postdoctoral associate at LIBR, the fact that the abnormal results observed for those with GAD occurred during lower, but not higher, doses of medicine was the primary finding from the study: "administering isoproterenol allowed us to provide causal evidence that an abnormally sensitive cardiovascular system and an abnormally insensitive frontal cortex in GAD patients lowers their ability to regulate bodily arousal. This could help to explain why they experience anxiety so frequently and in a wide variety of contexts." The authors hoped that their study prompts further research into the ventromedial prefrontal cortex as a therapeutic target for novel treatments helping individuals with GAD to regulate physiological and emotional responses to stress. Beyond the novel link revealed by this study, it is noteworthy that cardiovascular hypersensitivity was observed for GAD patients at all. This is because the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the standard classification system used by mental health professionals in the United States, describes autonomic symptoms such as sweating, rapid heart rate, or shortness of breath, as being less prominent in GAD than other anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder. As senior author Sahib Khalsa, MD, PhD, a psychiatrist and principal investigator at LIBR put it, "this study shows us that anxiety is not only something that happens within our brains but within our bodies as well." Thus, these findings show that abnormal functioning of the autonomic nervous system is not only a factor in GAD, but it occurs in combination with abnormal functioning of certain areas of the brain. Such associations are what Dr Khalsa believed, to be the most important product of this research: "it is the interaction between our brain and body that may be essential for determining whether an innocuous situation creates a state of fear in individuals with GAD. We need to better understand how this abnormal physiological response relates to the functional impairments that commonly interfere with the daily lives of such individuals." (ANI)
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/nato-chief-discusses-ukraine-with-hungarian-prime-minister-after-his-visit-to-russia-1092713862.html

NATO Chief Discusses Ukraine With Hungarian Prime Minister After His Visit to Russia

NATO Chief Discusses Ukraine With Hungarian Prime Minister After His Visit to Russia

BRUSSELS (Sputnik) - NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has discussed the situation around Ukraine with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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The Hungarian prime minister paid a visit to Russia on Tuesday. The agenda included a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, among other things."Good to speak again to Prime Minister Viktor Orban of #Hungary about the crisis created by #Russias military buildup in & around #Ukraine. North America & Europe stand united in #NATO. All Allies agree on the importance of dialogue & strong deterrence and defence," Stoltenberg tweeted.According to Nina Bachkatov, a professor of political science from the University of Liege in Belgium, despite Orban's controversial status within the European Union, France and Germany appreciate him keeping communication with Russia open.The expert also noted a lack of unity within the European Union and NATO on how to address the situation, with countries Croatia or Slovenia remaining on the fence and Hungary operating on its own."There is no miracle man to solve the complex issues at stake and only a policy of small steps will deliver results. Even the American press, so prompt until now to paint Russia as the arch-villain, starts to wonder what the Ukrainian army has done with the billions of dollars in deliveries and financial support. The press starts explaining the complex situation of Ukraine. The uncertainty increases in the present period, and nobody wants war," Bachkatov concluded.Tensions between Russia and Europe have escalated in the past few months over the Ukrainian crisis, with the EU pledging severe economic sanctions against Russia in the event of an attack on Ukraine, an allegation firmly denied by Moscow. The punitive measures would target Russian projects in the gas sector, in particular, Brussels said.

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Asian Development Bank (ADB) has recommended a four-pronged policy for Pakistan to capitalize on its China Pakistan Economic Corridor project (CPEC) project. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has strongly recommended Pakistan to undertake structural reforms, broaden its tax base, utilise transport infrastructure, and expedite the development of nine Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to make the most of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), as noted by News International. The ADB reported "Economic Corridor Development (EDC) in Pakistan" released on Wednesday, highlighted that despite signing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs), Pakistan could not boost its exports. On taxation issues, the ADB suggested that a high-level constitutional body, similar to India's Goods and Service Tax Council, may be established through the Council of Common Interest (CCI), with clear accountability to resolve tax-related issues across the country. The ADB report states that the CPEC investments improved Pakistan's connectivity. To fully explore the potential benefits, it proposed some policy actions which could raise income from exports and enhance the fiscal capacity of the government. The report suggested that possible reforms could include the following, but would not be limited to rationalising business regulations and taxation, improving trade facilitation and logistics, augmenting human capital development, and labour market efficiency, and strengthening financial inclusion along with deepening the capital market. "Second, broaden the tax base to unleash the country's tax revenue potential while improving the perceived fairness of the tax system," the ADB advised Pakistan. Meanwhile, the International Monterrey Fund (IMF) estimates suggest that Pakistan's tax capacity is about 22.3 per cent of Gross Domestic Project (GDP), implying a tax revenue shortfall of more than 10 per cent in Financial Year 2019. The ADB, in its report, praised the government's recent measures to broaden the tax net as steps in the right direction. However, added that more could be done by implementing a rigorous reform agenda to broaden the tax net, such as cutting tax concessions and exemptions, addressing structural weaknesses in fragmented tax administrations, and improving economy-wide tax compliance. The ADB also advised Pakistan to realise the expected gains from the concessions granted by partner countries under the FTA) and preferential trade agreement (PTA). Despite market access obtained by the government, Pakistan exporters have not taken full advantage of the concessionary tariffs to increase their share in partner countries' imports, the report says. ADB analysis indicates that Pakistan is facing an acute infrastructure financing gap of about 5 per cent of GDP. "Pakistan needs to put in place appropriate policies and initiatives to involve its diaspora in the mainstream capital market and mobilise their income and wealth into productive investment vehicles in the form of innovative financing for good projects in Pakistan," the report said. (ANI)
If an independent journalist poses a threat to Hungarys national security, that reveals a lot about the power of the government, said German Liberal MEP Moritz Korner at a hearing in the European Parliaments (EP) Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) on Tuesday.

Guests were invited to share their views with the committee about the Pegasus wiretapping scandal and its consequences.



One of LIBEs invited guest was Szabolcs Panyi, a journalist for investigative outlet Direkt36, who uncovered the use of Pegasus in Hungary and was also found to have the Israeli spyware installed on his devices.



Panyi told the committee that it was absurd that the Hungarian data protection authority not only did not find anything wrong with the use of Pegasus, but it also filed a criminal complaint against those involved in the uncovering the illegal wiretapping scheme. In effect, the agency claims that those it surveilled with Pegasus posed a national security threat.



Panyi claims that the surveillance scandal could have a chilling effect on journalists confidential sources and whistleblowers who uncover illegal activity, who will now have to rethink whether they should go public with their revelations.



As Pegasus also targeted lawyers in Hungary, the situation is similar for those seeking legal advice or assistance who can never be certain that their conversations with a lawyer are not being overheard. Panyi said that there were already signs that the government plans to use information it picked up from wiretapped phones in the upcoming election campaign.



Other speakers, including MEPs and Polish prosecutor and fellow Pegasus victim Ewa Wrzosek, urged the EU to take action on the issue. One proposed idea in this regard is to ban the import and export of technology to countries where democratic standards are not respected.



The EPs Liberal Group has been urging a parliamentary committee of inquiry for some time now, and speakers at the session indicated growing support for the proposal.



Hungarys Balazs Hidveghi (pictured), however, offered a separate opinion on the subject. Hidveghi claimed that everything regarding Pegasus in Hungary was in accordance with the law, and he advised that the members of the commission investigate surveillance conducted by the former government of Ferenc Gyurcsany, who he called their comrade.



Moritz Korner responded to this statement by asking the Fidesz MEP: If youre so much better than the previous government, why dont you act better than them?



Szabolcs Panyi then suggested Hidveghi to ask his comrade, Pal Volner, who was forced to resign as state secretary after accepting bribes and personally signing off on illegal eavesdropping warrents, whether anyone had put and external pressure on him before he chose to use Pegasus on civil targets.





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Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], February 3 (ANI/PRNewswire): India's top Jewelry retailer, Tanishq, from Tata Group, launches their latest campaign - 'Every Woman a Diamond'. Through this campaign the brand tells a compelling story on how Tanishq believes in celebrating the women of today and every woman deserves nothing less than a diamond to cherish who she has shaped herself to be. [Tanishq Presents 'Every Woman A Diamond'] Tanishq's Every Woman a Diamond honors today's woman by emphasizing there is an extraordinary in the seemingly ordinary life journey of every woman. Tanishq has featured four real women from different walks of life and attempted to capture moments that are easily relatable in every woman's life and highlights how every woman should not just be celebrated for her wins but also cherished for who she is. Tanishq celebrates four special women - Jaclyn, a pilot, a Real Madrid fan who kicks all prejudices aside and blazes forward like a diamond, and lands whole flights of people to their desired destinations. Rehana is a self-care therapist, who is a force of nature and an unapologetic cat lover who can heal, help meditate and put the belief back into yoga. It's her overwhelming energy that makes women treat their bodies like they would the most precious of diamonds. Alesha, a fashion designer, an entrepreneur who strongly believes good design is what can save the planet and is known for carving out a reputation for dressing up women of all sizes; straight up, brilliant as a diamond and effortlessly stylish and Ishani, an athlete, mountaineer, avid skier. Just as comfortable with glamour as she is with the laws of gravity, she looks forward to illuminating the lives of those around her as only the rarest diamonds do. Tanishq offers a wide range of new designs of diamond rings, earrings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, bangles, and more. Ranging from options that make everyday meaningful to being a part of special days, the diamond range at Tanishq has all of the jewelry that one would be looking for. The brand is here to celebrate women by offering up to 20% off* on diamond jewelry value. The offer is valid across all Tanishq stores in India and is valid for a limited period only. Ranjani Krishnaswamy, GM, Marketing, Tanishq, Titan Company Ltd., said, "#EveryWomanADiamond' is a celebration of the extraordinary in a woman's life. Quintessentially women give themselves very little credit for the real transformational journey they go through in their lives - navigating work, home, motherhood, relationships, dreams & aspirations, the world of expectations, choices & decisions that come with all of these. A moment of pause, a lens of the extraordinary, a tone of self-realization, & a note of self-appreciation is what this campaign is visioned to convey. We at Tanishq believe women and diamonds have an intrinsic relationship and nothing less than Tanishq diamonds are befitting to celebrate the extraordinary story of her life. The real sparkle of diamonds comes from the woman who adorns it, who lends her radiance to make the diamonds shine a little brighter. We are offering the largest assortment of stunning diamonds that are designed keeping in mind the quintessential women of today. We truly hope our diamonds can match the brilliance of all the women out there!" Shop with the confidence of enhanced 'Gold Standard' safety protocols at the nearest Tanishq store or choose to shop online at www.Tanishq.co.in. *T&C apply. Tanishq, India's most-loved jewelry brand from the TATA Group, has been synonymous with superior craftsmanship, exclusive designs and guaranteed product quality for over two decades. It has built for itself the envious reputation of being the only jewelry brand in the country that strives to understand the Indian woman and provide her with jewelry that meets her traditional and contemporary aspirations and desires. Attesting to this commitment towards excellence, in 2019, Tanishq has been awarded the title of The Most Trusted Jewelry Brand in India by the Trust Research Advisory. To stress on their commitment to offer the purest jewelry, all Tanishq stores are equipped with the Karat meter which enables customers to check the purity of their gold in the most efficient manner. Tanishq offers Gold, Diamonds & Platinum jewelry in over 5000 traditional, western and fusion looks. The jewellery is manufactured in a fully integrated manufacturing plant with state-of-the-art equipment. The Tanishq retail chain currently spreads across 380+ exclusive boutiques in more than 220 cities. This story is provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PRNewswire)
In a big political development ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav will visit Noida on Thursday evening after a long gap of 11 years. Now the big question is whether Akhilesh's visit to Noida for the poll campaign will prove to be a masterstroke. Earlier on Thursday, Speaking to ANI in Bulandshahr, the SP chief said, "There is another saying related to Noida is that if a party goes for the campaign in Noida then it wins the Uttar Pradesh elections. Last time, I visited Noida in 2011 and then formed the government in 2012. Yadav said that he is sure that his visit to Noida will also help him in forming the government in 2022. "Noida jinx" is an old political taboo in Uttar Pradesh politics which says if a sitting chief minister visits Noida then he cannot hold power for long and will not be in power for another consecutive term. However, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has broken the taboo and tends to visit Noida continuously after forming the government in 2017. Yogi Adityanath, during the poll campaign in Noida for the upcoming elections earlier this month, had said that, unlike the previous governments, he was constantly visiting Noida and doing development work. He had said that he is sure that people will support and give their mandate to BJP. "Noida jinx" came into existence in Uttar Pradesh politics since the time of Vir Bahadur Singh as he lost the election after Noida visit. Further, ND Tiwari, Kalyan Singh and Mayawati's government also lost after their Noida visit. It is believed that Akhilesh Yadav was too scared of 'Noida jinx' that during the whole tenure of his government he did not visit Noida for a single time and not even held a campaign for the 2017 Assembly polls and 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Noida. Notably, Akhilesh Yadav did not even visit Noida for the inauguration of development projects during his tenure. The Uttar Pradesh assembly election for the 403 assembly seats would be held in seven phases from February 10 to March 7. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday filed a plea in the Supreme Court against the Madras High Court ordering a CBI investigation into the suicide of a 17-year-old student, allegedly due to pressure for religious conversion.

The state, through DGP, challenged the validity of orders passed by a single-judge bench of the Madurai bench of the High Court, which also made stinging remarks against the Tamil Nadu government and Thanjavur district police over their attempts to derail the investigation.

The petition filed by advocate Joseph Aristotle questioned the order, with the police and the education minister ruling out conversion angle in the case.

The father of the deceased also filed a caveat urging the top court not to pass any order in the matter without granting him a hearing.

Also Read  Tamil Nadu schoolgirl dies by suicide; alleges attempted forced conversion in video 'confession'

The 17-year-old girl, who was studying at Sacred Heart Higher Secondary School in Michaelpatti, consumed poison on January 9 and died on January 19 at a hospital. Her video, alleging an attempt by her hostel warden to convert her to Christianity two years ago, had gone viral on social media.

The girls father filed the petition on January 21 seeking a CB-CID probe but he, subsequently, sought a probe by CBI.

Her case was also raised by BJP leader and advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay in a PIL in the top court, claiming the Centre and states have failed to control the menace of deceitful religious conversion, though it is their duty under Articles 14, 21, 25 of the Constitution. His PIL sought a direction to the Centre and states to control fraudulent religious conversion and those carried out by intimidation, threat, deceit, and through gifts and monetary benefits.

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A VIBRANT multidisciplinary Limerick festival set to take place this year has secured unique funding.

Future Limerick has been selected as one of just five arts projects across the country to receive funding from the ESB Brighter Future Arts fund.

This 250,000 fund supports artists and arts organisations with creative ideas on engaging their local communities around sustainability and the energy transition.

Future Limerick is an ambitious collaboration between Sundays Child Theatre Company and the Lime Tree Theatre | Belltable to create a multidisciplinary climate arts festival that will host performances, workshops, projections and more due take place in Limerick in May 2022.

The project will see both theatres come together with artist Eva OConnor to create a multidisciplinary Climate Arts Festival across the city.

The ambition is to use art and creativity to engage the wider Limerick community on the issues of sustainability and climate change, and to spark debate about what a low carbon future could look like in Limerick.

The event will encompass cultural events including music, spoken word, film screenings, a short story competition, visual art and much more. The project is set to take place between May 14 -21, 2022.

Eva OConnor, from the Sundays Child Theatre Company, said that she is thrilled to be working in conjunction with the Lime Tree Theatre | Belltable to deliver the programme of events.

We're planning a vibrant week of culture that will both entertain and spark vital conversations about how we as a community can tackle the climate emergency and create a brighter future.

Director at Lime Tree Theatre | Belltable Louise Donlon noted the importance of addressing the challenges we face through the medium of the arts, which will help to frame them in a way that makes them seem less daunting.

We hope this festival will inspire new and creative ideas for a local-led response to climate change, she said.
City of Milwaukee employees could soon be eligible to receive paid parental leave  but with six weeks away from work instead of the original 12 proposed.

Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic, the measure's lead sponsor and a candidate for mayor, said she had been shocked to learn the city did not provide any paid parental leave.

She also took issue with the focus of some on the potential cost of the benefit and urged consideration of the "metrics of going back to work too early" or an employee deciding not to return to city employment at all.

Milwaukee Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic is running for mayor.

"Of course, we have to do our due diligence, but ... as we go into this discussion, I want you to take a deep look into the analysis that was not done," she said during a committee debate Wednesday. "The analysis that doesn't show what happens when we have to send babies to day care at zero weeks or six weeks, when a mother has to go back to work, who had a C-section too early and is in pain and maybe can't produce the breast milk that she wanted to for her child."

The new policy would apply after the birth of a child, a miscarriage or stillbirth after 20 weeks of pregnancy, and the adoption, fostering or guardianship of a child under the age of 5 years old.

The policy would go into effect April 4. The Common Council is expected to take up the measure Tuesday after its approval Wednesday at the Finance and Personnel Committee.

More: Acting Mayor Cavalier Johnson unveils economic development plan for Milwaukee

More: Milwaukee takes first step in tackling electrical fires; 'There will be more to come,' acting mayor pledges

City employees can currently take parental leave, but it's either unpaid or the result of cobbling together vacation and sick time. That leaves little time off for reasons such as babies' medical appointments after the leave ends.

Committee members proposed revisiting the policy in a year to determine whether the six-week leave caused any staffing issues and whether it could be lengthened to 12 weeks.

Story continues

Ald. Nik Kovac said he wanted to get to 12 weeks but supported starting at six weeks first. He said questions about the cost of such a policy include which departments would be most impacted and whether it is necessary to backfill staff or pay for overtime.

At its core is a question of how much city operations will be affected, he said.

"I think this can be done, and it likely can be done with minimal expense and hopefully minimal service reductions," he said.

Department of Employee Relations Director Makda Fessahaye said starting at six weeks would allow her department to implement the policy in a way that would be measurable and allow for an understanding of how operations and the city's fiscal status would be impacted, especially with a looming spike in city pension payments starting next year.

The department's recommendation also took into account that employees could use unpaid leave, vacation and sick time for the remaining six weeks, should they choose to take a 12-week leave, Fessahaye said.

She anticipated that employees would use more time off if they became entitled to paid leave instead of the city's current system. That means the city's current data does not reflect how many people will use the paid leave.

Fessahaye also said on average the city had about 200 births per year, two-thirds of which have been in the fire and police departments because of their younger workforce.

The city does not have data on the number of adoptions, guardianships or placements, she said.

The policy would not automatically apply to the fire and police departments but rather would likely have to be obtained through collective bargaining with their unions, according to a memo from the City Attorney's Office.

Budget Director Dennis Yaccarino said it was difficult to come up with a cost estimate for the policy because of the number of unknowns.

In a memo, he estimated that a 12-week leave for births alone would cost an average of $750,059 annually for employees not in the police and fire departments.

That sum would be halved with the six-week leave.

Costs related to adoptions and foster care could not be estimated, and a cost estimate for possibly backfilling for employees on leave through overtime and contracting for services was not included. The memo stated that based on Madison's experience no backfilling would likely be needed, though during snow plow operations it might be necessary to contract with more private vendors.

The Fire Department would need the positions of employees on leave to be filled on a 1:1 basis, though not all that time would be overtime, according to a fiscal impact statement. Police have a greater capacity to absorb absences without overtime, and the number of people out for parental leave at once is likely so small it would not create the need for overtime, the memo states.

The legislation was recommended for approval Wednesday on a 3-1 vote of the Finance and Personnel Committee, with Ald. Scott Spiker objecting.

Ald. Michael Murphy, the committee's chair, was excused from the meeting.

Contact Alison Dirr at 414-224-2383 or adirr@jrn.com. Follow her on Twitter @AlisonDirr.

Our subscribers make this reporting possible. Please consider supporting local journalism by subscribing to the Journal Sentinel at jsonline.com/deal.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee moves closer to paid parental leave for city employees
Russian President Vladimir Putin has met with Ramzan Kadyrov, the authoritarian, Kremlin-backed leader of the North Caucasus region of Chechnya, amid a public outcry over open threats made by the volatile region's leadership to kill the family of a human rights lawyer.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on February 3 that among other issues, Putin and Kadyrov discussed the work of law enforcement structures in Chechnya during the meeting the day before in Moscow.

Hours earlier, Kadyrov's press service said Putin and the Chechen leader met in Moscow on February 2 to discuss economic development and pandemic restrictions in Chechnya.

Russian and international human rights groups have for years accused Kadyrov of overseeing grave human rights abuses including abductions, torture, extrajudicial killings, and the persecution of the LGBT community.

Kremlin critics say Putin has turned a blind eye to the abuses and violations carried out by Kadyrov because he relies on the former rebel commander to control separatist sentiment and violence in Chechnya.

The February 2 meeting was held amid calls by journalists, rights activists, and ordinary citizens across Russia for the government to take legal measures over public statements by Kadyrov and other Chechen officials about killing all of the members of the family of Abubakar Yangulbayev, a former lawyer for the Committee Against Torture human rights group.

The outcry was initially sparked by the arrest of Zarema Musayeva, Yangulbayev's mother, who was forcibly taken from her apartment in the city of Nizhny Novgorod and transferred to Chechnya last month.

It then intensified after a member of the State Duma, Adam Delimkhanov, who comes from Chechnya, vowed to "cut off the heads" of all members of the Yangulbayev family.

Rights activists at the Committee Against Torture say the extreme pressure on Yangulbayev's family is linked to the activities of Yangulbayev, who had officially urged Putin to intervene in his family's ongoing ordeal and to fire Kadyrov.

On February 3, a state television channel in Chechnya's capital, Grozny, posted a report on Instagram showing a gathering of a large group of people in the city presented as members of Yangulbayev's extended clan and representatives of the family's tribe of Keloi.

In the video, the participants condemn Yangulbayev's family, denounce them, and vow "to kill them as soon as we have a chance." It could not be independently verified whether those in the group were actually from the clan.

On February 2, tens of thousands of people rallied in central Grozny to denounce the Yangulbayev family and support Kadyrov, Delimkhanov, and others who vowed to kill the family.

Yangulbayev, who is currently out of Russia, told RFE/RL that his friends in Chechnya told him that the authorities in Grozny forced university students and employees of state entities to take part in the February 2 rally.

"It is a demonstration of the [Chechen] authorities' fear. Kadyrov feels that he is losing Kremlin support. He tries to show that all Chechens support him en mass, but the Kremlin is distancing itself from this story," Yangulbayev said.

After Yangulbayev's mother, Zarema Yangulbayeva, also known as Musayeva, was taken from her apartment, her husband, a retired federal judge, and their daughter fled Russia.

Still, Chechen officials stepped up their campaign against the family, saying on January 31 that Abubakar Yangulbayev's brother, Ibragim, had been added to the federal wanted list on a charge of making a public call for terrorism.

Amnesty International has described Yangulbayeva's detention as a "kidnapping" and has urged Russian federal authorities to act on the "lawlessness" that has "spilled out" of Chechnya.

Kadyrov has said Yangulbayeva faces a "real prison sentence for attacking a law enforcement officer" and that her entire family could find themselves "either in jail or under the ground."

Chechnya went through two devastating post-Soviet wars and an Islamist insurgency that spread to other mostly Muslim regions in the North Caucasus.

With reporting by Interfax, TASS, and Caucasus.Realities
SAO PAULO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Companhia Siderurgica Nacional (" CSN ") ( NYSE: SID) announced today that its Luxembourg finance subsidiary, CSN Resources S.A. (" CSN Resources "), has commenced a cash tender offer (the " Tender Offer ") for up to US$300.0 million in aggregate principal amount (subject to increase or decrease by CSN Resources, in its sole discretion, the " Maximum Tender Amount ") of its outstanding 7.625% Senior Unsecured Guaranteed Notes due 2026 (the " Notes "). The Notes are fully, unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed by CSN.



The following table sets forth the material pricing terms of the Tender Offer:

Title of Security CUSIP / ISIN Principal Amount

Outstanding Total

Consideration (1) Tender Offer

Consideration (2) 7.625% Senior

Unsecured

Guaranteed Notes

due 2026 144A: 12644VAC2 /

US12644VAC28 Regulation S:

L21779AD2 /

USL21779AD28 US$600,000,000 US$1,048.75 US$1,018.75

________________

(1) The amount to be paid for each US$1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered prior to the Early Tender Date and accepted for purchase. The Total Consideration includes an Early Tender Payment of US$30.00 for each US$1,000 principal amount of Notes. In addition, accrued interest up to, but excluding, the applicable settlement date (" Accrued Interest ") will be paid.

(2) The amount to be paid for each US$1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered after the Early Tender Date but prior to the Expiration Date and accepted for purchase. In addition, Accrued Interest will be paid.

The Tender Offer will expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on March 3, 2022, unless extended by CSN Resources (such time and date, as it may be extended, the " Expiration Date "). Holders of Notes who validly tender (and do not validly withdraw) their Notes at or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on February 16, 2022, unless extended by CSN Resources (such time and date, as it may be extended, the " Early Tender Date "), will be eligible to receive the Total Consideration, which includes the Early Tender Payment, plus Accrued Interest. Holders of Notes who validly tender Notes after the Early Tender Date but at or prior to the Expiration Date will not be eligible to receive the Early Tender Payment and will therefore only be eligible to receive the Tender Offer Consideration, plus Accrued Interest. Notes that have been validly tendered pursuant to the Tender Offer may be validly withdrawn prior to the Early Tender Date but not thereafter except as may be required by applicable law (as determined by CSN Resources).

The " Total Consideration " for each US$1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) at or prior to the Early Tender Date and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Tender Offer will be US$1,048.75, which includes an early tender payment equal to US$30.00 (the " Early Tender Payment "). Holders who validly tender Notes after the Early Tender Date but at or prior to the Expiration Date and whose Notes are accepted for purchase will not be entitled to receive the Early Tender Payment and will therefore be entitled to receive, for each US$1,000 principal amount of Notes accepted for purchase, US$1,018.75 (the " Tender Offer Consideration ").

CSN Resources, in its sole discretion, may elect to purchase Notes that are validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at or prior to the Early Tender Date (and whose Notes are accepted for purchase) one business day following the Early Tender Date but before the Expiration Date. If CSN Resources does not, in its sole discretion, elect to pay for such early tendered Notes prior to the Expiration Date, then all Notes up to the Maximum Tender Amount that are validly tendered and not validly withdrawn in the Tender Offer will be accepted for purchase on a date that is expected to be one business day following the Expiration Date or as promptly as practicable thereafter.

CSN Resources' obligation to purchase Notes in the Tender Offer is conditioned on the satisfaction or waiver of a number of conditions described in the Offer to Purchase dated February 3, 2022 (the " Offer to Purchase "), including the completion of new debt financing on satisfactory terms and conditions. The Tender Offer is not conditioned upon the tender of any minimum principal amount of Notes. However, the Tender Offer is subject to the Maximum Tender Amount. CSN Resources has the right, in its sole discretion, to increase or decrease the Maximum Tender Amount or to amend or terminate the Tender Offer at any time, including if the conditions of the Tender Offer are not satisfied. If the Tender Offer is terminated at any time, the Notes tendered will be promptly returned to the tendering holders without compensation or cost to such holders and will remain outstanding. CSN Resources reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to not accept any tenders of Notes for any reason. CSN Resources is making the Tender Offer only in those jurisdictions where it is legal to do so. CSN Resources and its affiliates reserve the absolute right, in their sole discretion, from time to time to redeem or purchase any Notes that remain outstanding after the Expiration Date through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, tender offers, exchange offers or otherwise, upon such terms and at such prices as they may determine, which may be more or less than the price to be paid pursuant to the Tender Offer.

The terms and conditions of the Tender Offer are described in the Offer to Purchase. Copies of the Offer to Purchase are available to holders of Notes from D.F. King & Co., Inc., the tender agent and information agent for the Tender Offer (the " Tender and Information Agent "). Requests for copies of the Offer to Purchase should be directed to the Tender and Information Agent by telephone at +1 (800) 967-7510 (U.S. toll free) or +1 (212) 269-5550 (collect), in writing to 48 Wall Street, 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10005, Attention: Michael Horthman, or by e-mail to [email protected].

CSN Resources has engaged Banco BTG Pactual S.A.  Cayman Branch, BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and UBS Securities LLC to act as the dealer managers (the " Dealer Managers ") in connection with the Tender Offer. Questions regarding the terms of the Tender Offer may be directed to Banco BTG Pactual S.A.  Cayman Branch at +1 (212) 293-4600 (collect), BNP Paribas Securities Corp. at +1 (888) 210-4358 (U.S. toll free) or +1 (212) 841-3059 (collect), Citigroup Global Markets Inc. at +1 (800) 558-3745 (U.S. toll free) or +1 (212) 723-6106 (collect), Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC at +1 (800) 828-3182 (U.S. toll free) or +1 (212) 357-1452 (collect), Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC at +1 (800) 624-1808 (U.S. toll free) or +1 (212) 761-1057 (collect), UBS Securities LLC at +1 (888) 719-4210 (U.S. toll free) or +1 (203) 719-4210 (collect).

Disclaimer

None of CSN, CSN Resources, the Dealer Managers, the Tender and Information Agent or the trustee for the Notes, or any of their respective affiliates, is making any recommendation as to whether holders should or should not tender any Notes in response to the Tender Offer or expressing any opinion as to whether the terms of the Tender Offer are fair to any holder. Holders must make their own decision as to whether to tender any Notes and, if so, the principal amount of Notes to tender. Please refer to the Offer to Purchase for a description of the offer terms, conditions, disclaimers and other information applicable to the Tender Offer.

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to purchase or the solicitation of an offer to sell any securities. The Tender Offer is being made solely by means of the Offer to Purchase. The Tender Offer is not being made to holders of Notes in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky or other laws of such jurisdiction. In those jurisdictions where the securities, blue sky or other laws require any tender offer to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the Tender Offer will be deemed to be made on behalf of CSN Resources by the Dealer Managers or one or more registered brokers or dealers licensed under the laws of such jurisdiction.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including those related to the Tender Offer. Forward-looking information involves important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect anticipated results in the future, and, accordingly, such results may differ from those expressed in any forward-looking statements.

COMPANHIA SIDERURGICA NACIONAL

Marcelo Cunha Ribeiro

Chief Financial and Investor Relations Officer

SOURCE CSN Resources S.A.
Undated photo showing a gas-fired range. UK energy bills are set to spike from the beginning of April 2022. (Andrew Matthews/PA)

UK Energy Bills to Rise by 54 Percent as Regulator Approves Historic Price Cap Lift

Millions of Britons are bracing for a sharp spike in their energy bills after Ofgem, the UK energy regulator, approved a record-breaking rise to its price cap.

Ofgem said the regulatory price capwhich is reviewed every six monthswould rise by a historic 54 percent to 1,971 ($2,683) a year starting in April, the same month that taxes are set to go up in the UK.

Jonathan Brearley, chief executive of Ofgem, said the energy market had seen a sharp increase in global gas prices, which hit record highs in Europe last year.

The energy market has faced a huge challenge due to the unprecedented increase in global gas prices, a once in a 30-year event, and Ofgems role as energy regulator is to ensure that, under the price cap, energy companies can only charge a fair price based on the true cost of supplying electricity and gas, Brearley said.

Some 22 million households across Great Britain are expected to be impacted by the cap lift, which applies to households that are on their energy suppliers default tariff.

Seeking to take the sting out of the steepening price tag for energy, the British government announced on Thursday that it would provide a series of financial support measures worth around 9 billion ($12 billion).

British finance minister Rishi Sunak said that the assistance schemes would help around 28 million households bear the burden of surging energy costs.

For me to stand here and pretend we dont have to adjust to paying higher prices would be wrong and dishonest. But what we can do is take the sting out of a significant price shock for millions of families by making sure the increase in prices is smaller initially and spread over a longer period, Sunak told lawmakers in the UK Parliament.

Under the scheme, British households will be provided with an upfront discount of 200 ($272) which will be later repaid in instalments over five years. Households within certain tax brackets will also receive a 150 ($204) rebate that they will not have to repay, with an additional 144 million ($196 million) earmarked for assistance for some lower-income and vulnerable individuals.

While the average UK household will see a 700 ($953) increase to their energy bills, the vast majority will see that cut by around 350 ($476) due to the support measures.

PA Media contributed to this report.
The North Korean Foreign Ministry scorned diplomatic overtures from Washington, D.C., this week and advised it to halt its military threat to our country."

The ministrys Wednesday statement mocked the so-called diplomatic solution and dialogue, called for by the United States after a burst of missile tests by North Korea in January. The statement cited the presence of U.S. troops on the Korean Peninsula and their joint military drills with South Korea.

It is a universal knowledge that the failure of the situation on the Korean Peninsula to easily be out of the whirlwind of aggravated tension just lies in the U.S. hostile policy towards [North Korea], the ministrys statement said.

U.S. officials have invited Pyongyang to negotiations without preconditions throughout seven rounds of missile tests by the communist regime so far this year.

The U.S. is concerned about North Koreas ballistic missile and weapons programs, and imposed further sanctions because of the continuing weapons tests, State Department spokesman Ned Price said Monday. But a door remains open to diplomatic talks, he added.

The U.S. developed an approach that, at its center, seeks to find a diplomatic means by which to achieve the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, Price said at a press briefing.

The White House repeated the message the next day. The door to diplomacy remains open and we have conveyed that clearly, spokeswoman Jen Psaki said at a media briefing.

Their comments followed North Koreas latest test of an intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of reaching the U.S. territory of Guam.

The North fired a Hwasong-12 missile on Sunday, its first launch of that type since 2017, the state-run Korean Central News Agency said. The missile flew about 500 miles at an altitude of 1,240 miles, according to South Korean military officials.

The test was a success, according to KCNA, which called the missile a defensive weapon.

The launch earned a reprimand from South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has stopped short in recent months of fully criticizing the regime amid ongoing talks to formally end the 1950-53 Korean War.

North Korea must immediately stop actions that create tensions, South Koreas presidential Blue House said in a statement Sunday.

The U.N. Secretary-General also condemned the missile launch as a clear violation of Security Council resolutions.

It is of great concern that [North Korea] has again disregarded any consideration for international flight or maritime safety, Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesperson for the Secretary-General, said in a statement Tuesday. The Secretary-General urges [North Korea] to desist from taking any further counter-productive actions and calls for all parties to seek a peaceful diplomatic solution.
Russia-Ukraine conflict

Wars have unintended consequences. In 1917, President Wilson got the United States into a European war. Our presence on the battlefield tipped the balance and Germany and the Ottoman Empire were vanquished. Germanys collapse led to Hitler and the Ottoman Empires demise led to the mess in the Middle East. Then came World War II and then Korea and Vietnam.

Fast forward to 1982. With good intentions, we got ourselves involved in Beirut. I was there as a Marine first lieutenant and saw the mess that we tried to straighten out. Two of my fellow officers were killed when the 1st Battalion, 8th Marines barracks was flattened.

In 1989, Iraq invaded Kuwait. President George H.W. Bush famously said that we were going to save democracy. What? One dictator invades another. Why should we care? We were told that the worlds supply of energy was at stake, yet oil prices went down. Once again, our involvement made a mess of things in the Middle East.

The Senate and House voted to authorize the invasion of Iraq. Even a majority of Senate Democrats voted for the resolution, including John Kerry and Max Cleland, as well as Chuck Hagel and John McCain on the Republican side. All Vietnam War veterans who, better than the majority, should have seen the folly.

So off to war we went. I went (twice) and 10 years later my son, then Second Lieutenant Folsom, went.

What was not included in the October 2002 Iraq resolution was a provision for a draft. Had that been an amendment, the resolution would never have passed the Senate. The major funders of both parties dont have sons and daughters who will go to war. Instead, those who go to war are not the well born who spend their young years at school without a care.

Everyone wants to go to war, it seems. My question to them is, What are you putting up? Your son? Your daughter? Grandson? Granddaughter? The answer is nothing. Its easy to send someone elses son to war.

Instead, it will be young, middle class Americans who dont have family wealth that allows them to avoid military service.

Does President Biden and the neoconservatives want to go to war? Fine. Reinstate the draft and a draft with no exemptions. Try to send the sons and daughters of investment bankers, tech moguls, trial lawyers and, yes, politicians to war and youll see support for Ukraine (or any other foreign excursion) evaporate.

Its the children of our middle and lower classes that do most of the dying when it comes to war. Unlike most of the Neocons who are spoiling for a fight with Russia, Ive seen what happens in combat. President Biden needs to rehearse a speech when he has to tell a mother that her son was killed defending Ukraines territorial integrity.

John Folsom, Omaha

Call a politician

Our elected officials have indicated they have vast medical knowledge. Next time we have a health issue, maybe bypass our overworked health professionals and call a politician.

Dan Hoffman, Elkhorn

Real or fake

It would be great to have some clear guidance as to what might be a fake N95 or KN95 mask. The CDC suggests that it will have a NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health) label. However, for the solar eclipse in 2017, we were advised to buy ISO-approved eclipse glasses; I purchased some advertised this way, but found later they were fake. We need to know how to identify the quality ourselves, not if they have an easily counterfeited label.

Bev Hornig, Omaha

Library move

The lease of the totally inappropriate Jones Street site for the downtown library should not be approved. Rather, the library should be moved to the current Mutual site. I am sure that there is plenty of space that is not being used and lots of parking unlike Jones Street. It is also on the Orbit line and the trolley line. And Mutual should be able to give good terms on the lease. Perhaps this site could be the permanent new site. Better than the talked about site at 72nd and Dodge Streets.

Robert and Linda Crouch, Omaha

Pillen campaign

Jim Pillens TV campaign ads are disgusting. What is the purpose of carrying a shotgun in the ad, to make him look tough? And his attack on Dr. Fauci is uncalled for and even threatening as he cocks the gun right after he disparages him. Does Mr. Pillen think he knows more about medicine and public health than a renown expert? God help Nebraska if he is our next governor.

Rebecca Shuster, Omaha

Water needs

With a one-time grant of funds, choosing uses requires asking: Are there higher and better uses compared to other alternatives? Ensuring water for Nebraskas food production needs is laudable but Colorado is full partner in the compact for the South Platte River system  the Colorado governor has already expressed concerns from their plan and the partnership interests.

A sticky part surfaces when dealing with reduced river flows. That forces critical negotiations. Are we ready for that?

Lavon Sumption, Lincoln

Prison thoughts

This excellent series on Nebraskas nation-leading prison growth by Henry J. Cordes proves many things in my opinion:

1. There is excellent strategical thinking in the collaborative efforts of our police force and community.

2. It is essential to have a strong DA who insists on prosecution and enforcement, as opposed the the cities of Los Angeles, Chicago and New York City.

3. The Nebraska gun laws and prosecution polices need to be re examined, not to repeal but to revise so that we more closely utilize federal arrest and prosecution policies to relieve some of the burden on Nebraska taxpayers.

4. Although financially painful, it is imperative to build another prison.

Tony Staup, Waterloo, Neb.
After former chief of Punjab Pradesh Congress Sunil Jakhar sparked political reactions by claiming that 42 of 79 party MLAs wanted him to take over as the Punjab Chief Minister during the change of leadership in the party, he has now backed Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi stating that he should be given time so that he continues working. "What they decide will be accepted by all. But I'm of opinion that Channi ji has been given the opportunity, he should be given time so that he continues working. People have seen his good work in four months," Jakhar told ANI. Jakhar, who made way for PCC chief Navjot Singh Sidhu last year when the Amarinder-Sidhu clash was at its peak, had claimed that that 42 of 79 party MLAs wanted him to take over as the Punjab Chief Minister after Captain Amarinder Singh stepped down from the post while only two legislators favoured Channi. His statement came at a time when Congress is all set to announce its CM candidate for the upcoming polls. He further said that MLAs has passed a resolution to obey by the High Command's decision while discussing the Chief Ministerial candidate. Lauding Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his decision to make Channi, a Dalit face, as the Chief Minister of Punjab, Jakhar said that it was a "historic" decision. Jakhar further said that the most secular party in the country is Congress. "In my 20 years of political career, I have not seen any bigger secular leader than Rahul Gandhi." During the change of guard, Jakhar said that he was the first to support Channi as the CM of Punjab. "Those who are raising fingers today, ask them that when Charanjit Singh Channi was given a chance by Rahul ji, I was the first to approve it," Jakhar said. On asking about reports stating that he refused to become the CM, Jakhar denied and said, "I also have feelings." He further said that voting should not have been done to elect the CM if Channi was selected by the party to become the CM. "Firstly, voting should not have taken place. When it is decided that he will be the Chief Minister, then what is the need of voting. If they did not want me to become the CM, they should have accused me of something like I am not even an MLA," he said. The Congress leader also said that he respects that many MLAs supported him and wanted him to become the CM. "I believe that my devotion towards politics was successful," he added. The Congress leader also said that if he had any political aspirations, he would have been fighting the upcoming elections. "To say that Sunil cannot be the CM as he is not a Sikh but a Hindu, it reflects their frustration and their inferiority complex. Punjab has never given me a chance to consider myself as a second-class citizen. In Punjab, everyone is a first-class citizen," he said. Appearing to be dissatisfied over not becoming chief minister, Jakhar said, "There was news that Channi sanctioned projects worth Rs 1,000 crore in his parliamentary constituency. I, without being an MLA or the chief minister, spent Rs 7,500 crore in four years. There was a difference of Rs 2,500 crore (in becoming the chief minister)." Addressing a public meeting in his Abohar on Tuesday, Jakhar said, "There were 42 MLAs in my favour, only two MLAs took Channi's name as Chief Minister." He also claimed that he declined the post of Deputy Chief Minister offered to him by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Jakhar said that 16 MLAs were in support of Sukhjinder Randhawa, 12 MLAs wanted Captain's wife Preneet Kaur for the Deputy chief minister post while only 6 MLAs were in favour of Navjot Singh Sidhu. In September last year, Charanjit Singh Channi was sworn in as Chief Minister of Punjab while Sukhjinder Randhawa and OP Soni took oath as deputy chief ministers. Earlier, Rahul Gandhi said that the party workers will take the decision regarding the chief ministerial face for Punjab. Punjab will go to the polls on February 20. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
ATMEH, Syria  The leader of the Islamic State group blew himself up along with members of his family as American forces raided his Syria hideout Thursday, the U.S. said  the second time in three years the United States has taken out a leader of the violent group that has been struggling for resurgence with deadly attacks in the region.

President Joe Biden announced the overnight raid by American special operations forces, which U.S. officials called a significant blow to the radical militant organization.

The IS group at the height of its power controlled more than 40,000 square miles stretching from Syria to Iraq and ruled over 8 million people. Its attacks in the region included a major assault last month to seize a prison in northeast Syria holding at least 3,000 IS detainees.

The raid targeted Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, who took over as head of the group on Oct. 31, 2019, just days after leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi died during a U.S. raid. Al-Qurayshi, unlike his predecessor, was far from a household name, a secretive man who presided over a far diminished version of the group and didnt appear in public.

Biden said al-Qurayshi died as al-Baghdadi did, by exploding a bomb that killed himself and members of his family, including women and children, as U.S. forces approached.

Thanks to the bravery of our troops this horrible terrorist leader is no more, Biden said at the White House. He said al-Qurayshi had been responsible for the prison assault, as well as genocide against the Yazidi people in Iraq in 2014.

About 50 U.S. special operations forces landed in helicopters and attacked a house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said. Residents described continuous gunfire and explosions that jolted the town of Atmeh near the Turkish border, an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syrias civil war.

Biden said he ordered U.S. forces to take every precaution available to minimize civilian casualties, the reason they did not conduct an airstrike on the home.

First responders reported that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said U.S. forces were able to evacuate 10 people from the building: a man, a woman and four children from the first floor and four children from the second floor. He said when al-Qurayshi detonated the bomb, he also killed his wife and two children. Kirby said that U.S. officials were working to determine whether American action resulted in any civilian deaths.

There were no U.S. casualties, Kirby said. U.S. forces took fingerprints and DNA, which confirmed al-Qurayshis death, he said.

Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and senior national security aides monitored a live-feed of the operation from the White House Situation Room according to an official. In December, a tabletop model of the three-floor house had been brought to the high-security room.

The raid marked a military success for the United States at an important time after setbacks elsewhere  including the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal  had led allies and opponents to conclude U.S. power globally was weakening.

The house, surrounded by olive trees in fields outside Atmeh, was left with its top floor shattered and blood spattered inside. A journalist on assignment for The Associated Press, and several residents, said they saw body parts scattered near the site. Most residents spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Idlib is largely controlled by Turkish-backed fighters but is also an al-Qaida stronghold and home to several of its top operatives. Other militants, including extremists from the rival IS group, have also found refuge in the region.

The first moments were terrifying; no one knew what was happening, said Jamil el-Deddo, a resident of a nearby refugee camp. We were worried it could be Syrian aircraft, which brought back memories of barrel bombs that used to be dropped on us, he added, referring to explosives-filled containers used by President Bashar Assads forces against opponents during the Syrian conflict.

The top floor of the low house was nearly destroyed, sending white bricks tumbling to the ground below.

A wrecked bedroom had a childs wooden crib and a stuffed rabbit doll. On one damaged wall, a blue plastic baby swing was still hanging. Religious books, including a biography of Islams Prophet Mohammad, were in the house.

Al-Qurayshi had kept an extremely low profile since he took over leadership of the Islamic State. U.S. officials said he never left his apartment except to bathe on the buildings roof. It is difficult to gauge how his death will affect the group. U.S. officials claimed he was directly overseeing operations in Syria, including last months attack on the prison.

Theyre leaderless today, and thats a significant blow, Kirby said. This not something we believe ISIS is going to be able to get over real quickly or real easily.

The second floor of the house was occupied by a lower-ranking Islamic State leader and his family, but the first floor contained civilians who were unconnected to the terrorist group and unaware of al-Qurayshis presence, according to U.S. officials, who described them as unwitting human shields.

Biden gave the final go on the mission on Tuesday morning during his daily national security briefing in the Oval Office, where he was joined by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley.

In the first stages of the operation, residents and activists said, U.S. commandos staged a large ground assault, using megaphones urging women and children to leave the area.

Much to the relief of U.S. officials, the family on the first floor exited the building unharmed.

The IS lieutenant, who officials did not name, who lived on the second floor barricaded himself inside along with his wife and engaged in combat with the commandos who entered the home after the explosion. After a firefight, in which both were killed, officials said four children were removed from the second floor alive by U.S. forces. Kirby said that it appeared that a child on the second floor also died, though the circumstances were not clear.

The special operations forces spent about two hours on the ground, longer than usual for such an operation  indicative, U.S. officials said, of caution to minimize civilian casualties.

Another firefight erupted with a local extremist group with hostile intent, Kirby said. Two people were killed outside the house and their compadres left, he said.

U.S. troops launched the airborne raid from a base in the region, but officials would not specify the precise location due to operational security concerns. They added that the U.S. deconflicted the operation with a a range of entities but did not specify whether those included Russia, which has supported the Assad government in Syria.

Gen. Frank McKenzie, head of U.S. Central Command and the commander of the operation, said the mission goal was to capture al-Qurayshi. He said the blast set off by the IS leader was larger than would have been expected from a suicide vest, and that al-Qurayshis body was found on the ground outside the building, thrown from the third floor by the force of the blast.

There was no comment from the Syrian government, which rarely acknowledges or comments on attacks by foreign countries targeting areas outside its control.

A U.S. official said one of the helicopters in the raid suffered a mechanical problem and was redirected to a site nearby, where it was destroyed.

Through slickly engineered propaganda, including brutal beheading videos, IS emerged as a dominant global extremist threat in the past decade. Its clarion call to followers in the West to either join its self-described caliphate in Syria, or to commit acts of violence at home, inspired killings in the U.S. as well as thousands of travelers determined to become foreign fighters.

Last months attack on the prison in Hasaka marked the groups biggest military operation since it was defeated and its members scattered underground in 2019. The attack appeared aimed to break free senior IS operatives in the prison.

It took 10 days of fighting for U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led forces to retake the prison fully, and the force said more than 120 of its fighters and prison workers were killed along with 374 militants.

___

Baldor and Miller reported from Washington, Mroue from Beirut. Associated Press writers Zeina Karam in Beirut, Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad and Eric Tucker, Chris Megerian, Ellen Knickmeyer and Alexandra Jaffe in Washington contributed reporting.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/kiev-preparing-offensive-restricts-exit-of-those-liable-for-military-service-donetsk-says-1092712009.html

Kiev Preparing Offensive, Restricts Exit of Those Liable for Military Service, Donetsk Says

Kiev Preparing Offensive, Restricts Exit of Those Liable for Military Service, Donetsk Says

DONETSK (Sputnik) - The people's militia of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic said on Thursday that Kiev had restricted the exit of citizens liable... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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In order to achieve goals in Donbass, Kiev is ready to put the whole country "under arms," the militia's spokesman said. On 1 February, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree to increase the armed forces of Ukraine by another 100,000 people and create an additional 20 brigades, their staffing requires significant human resources.He added that in order to avoid panic among the population, the reasons for refusing to leave the country are: the lack of information on issued visas in the database, the alleged presence of cases of administrative offenses, unresolved property disputes and other reasons. The military registration and enlistment offices are updating the lists of citizens subject to mobilisation."In addition, we have information that the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry is preparing diplomatic notes to the embassies of foreign countries, in which Kiev asks for assistance in returning Ukrainian citizens of draft age to the country," the spokesman said.According to the peoples militia of the self-proclaimed Donetsk Peoples Republic (DPR), artillery units of the Ukrainian security forces are conducting reconnaissance of the area on the front edge of the line of contact in Donbass.Tensions in the region have been escalating over the past few weeks amid Western speculations that Russia is planning an invasion of Ukraine. Moscow has repeatedly rejected the allegations as groundless and accused the West of planning a provocation in Donbass. The conflict in eastern Ukraine flared up in the spring of 2014 after Donetsk and Lugansk proclaimed their independence. Kiev launched a military operation against the independence-seeking forces in the country's east after the Western-backed coup in February 2014. The war resulted in the deaths of more than 30,000 people, with tens of thousands more injured, and more than 2.5 million residents displaced.

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Eight Recommended Wilderness Areas totaling 139,400 acres are proposed in the Custer Gallatin National Forests land management plan, unveiled to the public on Friday.

We pulled forward what we thought was the best of the best for recommended wilderness, said Mary Erickson, forest supervisor, in a Friday press conference.

The plan ends a process begun in 2016 and replaces the previous strategy adopted in 1987. Since it is an overarching guide, the document does not address specific actions for the 3 million acre landscape stretching from the Bozeman area, 400 miles east to portions of northwestern South Dakota. Rather, it sets overarching goals to guide actions.

Politics

Designating new wilderness, an action exclusive to Congress, has grown increasingly difficult in Montana. In 2017, Sen. Steve Daines and then-Rep. Greg Gianforte unsuccessfully introduced companion bills in Congress to remove Wilderness Study Area designations from 450,000 acres of Montana land.

Last year, Sen. Jon Tester introduced the Blackfoot-Clearwater Stewardship Act that would designate 80,000 acres of new wilderness in northwest Montana. Daines subsequently announced he would support Testers bill only if his revocation of WSA status for 300,000 acres of land was attached.

A 2018 poll commissioned by UM's Crown of the Continent Greater Yellowstone Initiative found 57% of Montanans supported dedicating new wilderness areas in the state with 35% opposed.

The proposed wilderness areas in the Custer Gallatin would join the more than 1 million acres already designated wilderness in the forest along with about 844,000 acres of Inventoried Roadless Areas.

Gallatin

Much of the recommended wilderness in the Gallatin Range was carved out of the 155,000-acre Hyalite Porcupine Buffalo Horn Wilderness Study Area, first outlined in 1977. The area is a key link for wildlife traveling between the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, Yellowstone National Park and the adjoining Gallatin and Madison mountain ranges. In the past, wilderness and motorized advocates each went to court over Forest Service management of the WSA.

An 800-acre segment of recommended wilderness in the southwestern corner of the Absaroka Mountains near Gardiner is also part of that connection, along with 13,000 acres known as Cowboy Heaven in the Madison Range. This was added following an outcry after the draft plan was unveiled in 2020.

The final forest plan brings us closer to achieving a goal that Wild Montana has been working towards for decades: permanently protecting the wildest places in the Madison and Gallatin ranges, said Maddy Munson, field director for Wild Montana, in a statement.

The Gallatin Yellowstone Wilderness Alliance had suggested 1.15 million acres of wilderness be designated across the forest. GYWA member Phil Knight called the agency proposal underwhelming, and the groups president, Joseph Scalia, said the document exposes lowlands in the forest to unfettered recreation pressure.

Erickson said the Forest Services decisions were balanced and thoughtful.

Everyone wont see exactly the choices they would make if they were sitting in our shoes, she said. One of the  challenges of public land management is  people have different ideas about what is the right choice.

In another nod to wildlife connectivity, the Forest Service and Center for Large Landscape Connectivity identified key linkage areas in the northern Gallatin Mountains and the western Bridger Mountains, a route seen as essential to joining the Greater Yellowstone and Northern Continental Divide ecosystems for wildlife such as grizzly bears to genetically mingle.

Pressure

In the west, the Forest Service is managing an area under enormous development pressure as surrounding communities grow at an unprecedented rate.

With expansion has come demand for infrastructure enhancement, such as trails and campgrounds, as well as greater use of whats already on the ground. As evidence of the regions popularity, last year Yellowstone set a record with 4.8 million visits, and Gallatin Countys population has more than doubled since 1990.

To address the growth in recreation use, the plan eyes the conversion of dispersed camping sites to developed ones, adding loop trail connections while continuing to seek new road or trail right of ways to access public land, said Mariah Leuschen-Lonergan, acting forest public affairs officer.

The new plan focuses on 229,400 acres included in 10 Recreation Emphasis Areas with tailored direction and unique recreation opportunities that would be targeted for investment, she said. These include lands near the recreation communities of West Yellowstone, Big Sky and Cooke City, as well as along the Boulder River.

Diverse

The land management plan estimates about 560,000 acres are suitable for timber production with an average projected timber sale quantity of 10 million board feet a year. Another 8 million board feet a year is eyed for biomass and firewood.

Sun Mountain Lumber in Deer Lodge is one of the mills reliant on the forest for trees, employing about 200 people, according to Sean Steinbach, outreach forester.

"A steady timber supply keeps them busy," he said. "The main takeaway is we want to see good work happen on the ground."

Motorized recreation is split between summer and winter, with 1.28 million acres (42% of the forest) accessible in summer and 1.37 million (45%) in winter. No changes to existing motorized use areas near Billings pleased Anthony Miller, of the Magic City 4x4 club.

The forest is estimated to support 5,640 jobs and nearly $242 million in labor income. While much of that is from tourism-related businesses, the forest is also home to the only palladium and platinum mines in the country, one of only three such producers globally.

The Ashland District manages one of the largest national forest livestock grazing programs, the plan noted, with allotments on about 86% of the district providing forage for roughly 18,300 head of livestock on 44 grazing allotments.

Backcountry

South of Bozeman the plan adds the South Cottonwood as a Backcountry Area to maintain that sense of place, Erickson said. The South Cottonwood is one of 13 Backcountry Areas outlined in the plan. All together they total more than 207,600 acres.

Backcountry areas are defined as generally undeveloped or lightly developed  either unroaded, or have few, primitive roads. Some are both unroaded and untrailed.

The Gallatin Forest Partnership  a coalition that included horsemen, winter-use advocates, mountain bikers and wilderness advocates  worked with the Forest Service throughout the process to achieve its goals, which seemed to pay off.

Winter Wildlands Alliance is pleased the new forest plan adopts many aspects of the Gallatin Forest Partnership Agreement, including protections for Hyalite Canyon and its wild neighbor, South Cottonwood, said Hilary Eisen, policy director for the Winter Wildlands Alliance.

Thirty sections of stream on the forest were recommended for Wild and Scenic Rivers Act protection due to their outstandingly remarkable values. The goal is to protect those values, like WSAs, until Congress officially designates them worthy.

Regarding wildlife, the plan guarantees that Yellowstones bison are free to roam into the southern end of Gallatin Canyon, with a goal to remove any barriers and improve habitat. The document also emphasizes protection for bighorn sheep from disease by ensuring separation from domestic sheep grazing allotments, which there are none of at this time. Pack goats would be allowed with precautions.

Tribes

The Forest Service consulted with 18 tribes, including the Crow and Northern Cheyenne, recognizing the importance of the Ashland area, Crazy and Pryor mountains. As a result, the agency is proposing 9,600 acres of Recommended Wilderness in the southern Crazy Mountains, which pleased Shane Doyle, a member of the Apsaalooke Nation.

At the outset of the Forest planning process, achieving recommended wilderness for the checkerboarded Crazies seemed like a remote possibility, he said, in a statement. Much to our delight, the Forest Service has indeed recommended wilderness and created a large backcountry area in the range, offering protection of the mountains for the first time ever in recognition of how culturally vital they are for the Apsaalooke Nation and how ecologically extraordinary they are.

Also recognized as an area of tribal importance were the isolated and unique Pryor Mountains, south of Billings. The Pryors are considered a botanical hotspot with more than 400 plant species.

In the range, wilderness is proposed for more than 10,600 acres in Bear Canyon and 8,100 acres in Lost Water Canyon. Additionally, the plan protects the Pryors Punch Bowl by designating it a Backcountry Area.

The Pryors Coalition was disappointed more acreage wasnt recommended for wilderness, calling the backcountry designation simply inadequate on its website.

Outreach

As evidence of the forests outreach for comment, Erickson said the agency contacted 11 counties, two states and held more than 100 meetings in 15 counties in gathering 1,000 public comments.

The 247 page document is dense with information about the six geographic areas the Forest Service has created to guide its work. These include the Bridger, Bangtail and Crazy mountains; Pryor Mountains; Ashland; Madison, Henrys Lake and Gallatin mountains; Absaroka Beartooth Mountains; and Sioux.

The main goal of the plan is to sustain the forest, including protection of native species, to ensure its resiliency as the worlds climate is forecast to continue to warm, Erickson said.

We do hope that people recognize the responsiveness and listening that we did through this process, and that people will work with us, moving forward, to implement this plan and partner to do the best for these lands, she said.
Gubernatorial hopeful Jim Pillen said after he announced his bid last year, he has been amazed at the number of support hes received for his grassroots campaign."

Pillen, a Columbus pig farmer and Pillen Family Farms founder, recently received one of his biggest endorsements to date -- the Nebraska Farm Bureau. Pillen and the grassroots organization talked Wednesday about the Platte County natives campaign in front of a crowd of about 40 at Pillen Family Farms, 4438 Old Mill Road in Columbus.

For a kid who grew up west of Platte Center at the end of scoop shovel and pitchfork, no way could you dream (this), Pillen told The Columbus Telegram after the endorsement.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots farm organization that works to help farmers and ranchers statewide and enhance the states agriculture.

Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue said the organization has a policy in which it polls county farm bureaus across the state about the governors race and if they should endorse a candidate. The results came back this past Monday and found the farm bureau members wanted Pillen, McHargue said.

We wanted to ensure Jim gets elected to be our next governor, McHargue said.  I believe that our endorsement has the most impact on anybody who can endorse you. The reason is because we are organized in all the counties across Nebraska.

Weve been in business for 100 years and the ag sector signage is really important when youre running the campaign. What do farmers have? Weve got property. We can get those signs out and when the Nebraska Farm Bureau endorses someone, that includes our staff going to work with the campaign staff.

Pillen called the support from the Nebraska Farm Bureau as a game-changer.

Their endorsement and how they got it (through the survey) really gives us great momentum, Pillen said.

He also said to the crowd, Our campaign went from this level (holding his hand about shoulder high) to the top of the rafters (pointing to the Pillen Family Farms ceiling).

McHargue praised Pillen for his passion for education as the Platte County native has been a member of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents for the past 10 years.

He knows education is critically important to Nebraska, McHargue said. But he also knows how we fund education is broken and we need to tackle that conversation. Thats going to be a big conversation.

McHargue said property tax plays a huge role in funding the education system, especially in rural Nebraska.

He added that Pillen's agricultural background also makes him an ideal candidate.

Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee Chairwoman Sherry Vinton said voters have a candidate in Pillen who is a real farmer and real businessman.

Nebraska Farm Bureau isnt the only noticeable endorsement Pillen has received recently. In January, Gov. Pete Ricketts announced his support of the Republican hopeful.

I can tell you this being across the whole state there are really two things that are consistent, Pillen said. Number one, its how great the Nebraska people are everywhere. And number two how appreciative everybody is of Gov. Ricketts conservative leadership. So his endorsement is an equally big deal. Were humbled and very, very grateful.
TUCSON, Ariz.  Authorities are investigating the death of an 18-year-old inmate at the Pima County jail on Tuesday.

County Sheriffs officials said Sylvestre Inzunza was booked into jail on Jan. 27 on suspicion of aggravated assault, robbery, burglary, auto theft and kidnapping.

He was being held on a $75,000 bond.

A corrections officer at the jail located Inzunza unresponsive in his cell around 5:30 a.m. and called for medical assistance, according to sheriffs officials.

Jail staff immediately entered the cell and began administering emergency life-saving measures while they waited for Tucson Fire Department personnel to arrive.

Paramedics responded and pronounced Inzunza dead.

Sheriffs officials said detectives from their criminal investigations division found no signs of trauma and no suspicious circumstances in the inmates death.
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HERNDON, Va., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The modern ACH Network experienced significant growth in 2021, with 29.1 billion payments valued at $72.6 trillion, and Same Day ACH payment volume grew nearly 74%, new figures from Nacha show.

ACH Network payment volume was up 8.7%, or 2.3 billion, over 2020, marking the seventh consecutive year volume grew by at least 1 billion payments. The value of those payments rose 17.4%, or $10.8 trillion, making 2021 the ninth straight year to see a payment value increase of at least $1 trillion.

2021 ACH Network Volume and Value 2021 ACH Network Volume and Value

Among the sectors experiencing tremendous growth in 2021 was business-to-business (B2B). The 5.3 billion B2B paymentsvalued at $50 trillionreflect a 20.4% increase from 2020, as the pandemic fast-tracked businesses' switch to ACH payments. Over just the past two years, ACH B2B payments are up 33.2%.

Medical and dental practices and facilities are increasingly receiving healthcare claim payments electronically. There were 426.3 million such payments made by ACH in 2021, up 17.9% from 2020. Those payments were valued at $2 trillion.

"Throughout 2021, as the accelerated shift from paper to electronic payments continued, the ACH Network proved its resiliency and value to the nation. The figures for the year bear that out," said Jane Larimer, Nacha President and CEO.

"Working with our partners in government, at financial institutions, and the ACH Operators, the ACH Network last year seamlessly handled 143 million economic impact payments, 182 million Advance Child Tax Credit (ACTC) payments, and hundreds of millions of unemployment benefits, all by Direct Deposit. These payments brought help to Americans at a time when they needed it most," said Larimer.

Nacha and the ACH community marked the fifth anniversary of Same Day ACH last year with increases in volume and value of 73.9% and 105.1%, respectively, compared to 2020. There were 603.8 million Same Day ACH payments last year, valued at $943.7 billion. Operating hours for Same Day ACH were extended in March 2021, with the ACH Network now settling payments four times a day.

"Our latest Same Day ACH enhancement takes effect March 18, 2022: an increase in the per payment limit to $1 million, making Same Day ACH available for even greater use," said Larimer. "Same Day ACH is continuing to meet America's faster payment needs."

About Nacha

Nacha governs the thriving ACH Network, the payment system that drives safe, smart, and fast Direct Deposits and Direct Payments with the capability to reach all U.S. bank and credit union accounts. More than 29 billion ACH Network payments were made in 2021, valued at close to $73 trillion. Through problem-solving and consensus-building among diverse payment industry stakeholders, Nacha advances innovation and interoperability in the payments system. Nacha develops rules and standards, provides industry solutions, and delivers education, accreditation, and advisory services.

Contact:

Dan Roth

Nacha

703-561-3923

[email protected]

SOURCE Nacha
A former Brexit Party candidate who suggested a bullet to the head of Labour MP Dawn Butler would be wholly deserved has been spared jail.

Stephen Peddie, 61, wrote the tweet on February 21 last year, in response to another post by social commentator Toby Young.

The tweet by Mr Young claimed the Brent MP was using taxpayer cash to fund a jacuzzi in a north London property while claiming her main home was in east London.

Peddie, a prospective parliamentary candidate for the Kent constituency of Tonbridge and Malling in 2019, who quit in protest of Nigel Farages election strategy, replied: Egregious theft in a time of national emergency. Someone please explain to me why a bullet to the back of the head is anything but justified and wholly deserved.

Ms Butler, 52, later shared Peddie's Tweet and denied the jacuzzi claims, which she described as a 'decade old' and an 'incorrect story'.

Peddie denied sending a public communication of a menacing nature, but was found guilty following a trial at Westminster Magistrates' Court last month.

Now Peddie has been sentenced to eight weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months.

He was also ordered to undertake 180 hours unpaid work, as well as pay 200 compensation to Ms Butler, as well as 500 costs and a 128 surcharge.

Stephen Peddie, 61, was a prospective parliamentary candidate for the Kent constituency of Tonbridge and Malling in 2019 before quitting in protest of Nigel Farages election strategy

Labour MP Dawn Butler (pictured), 52, shared Peddie's Tweet and denied the jacuzzi claims, which she described as a 'decade old' and 'incorrect' story

In yesterday's sentencing hearing, Ms Butler, the former Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities, read a victim impact statement in which she described a 'never-ending onslaught of hate' which had forced her to stop using public transport.

She said: My dear friend Jo Cox was so brutally shot and stabbed multiple times for simply doing her job in her own constituency.

Every since this incident, people like Mr Peddie with a never-ending onslaught of hate cause me deep worry.

My home has been fitted with bars over the doors and cameras so that I may feel secure. I inform the police of my movements and no longer use public transport.

There are times when my family and friends urge me to leave this job for my safety but I wont be cowed into submission and silence.

I have since found out that Mr Peddie does have guns and they were confiscated after his arrest.

Peddie, who is retired and said he spends most of his time driving his Range Rover, fishing and looking after his house in Edenbridge, Kent, maintains his innocence and said he wishes to appeal his conviction.

Speaking from the dock he said: Can I just say that my genuine belief is that my tweet was crass but was not legally menacing.

For over two days it remained on Youngs Twitter page, seen by thousands of people. It remained uncommented on.

Last month Judge Briony Clarke convicted Peddie of sending a public communication of a menacing nature over the tweet (pictured)

If my conviction is allowed to stand it would represent a serious threat to freedom of expression.

I could not have reasonably expected Dawn Butler to have seen my tweet on Youngs account and she didnt. She was sent the tweet by a third party.

Judge Briony Clarke said she convicted him on the basis that it may create fear and apprehension in any member of the public who reads it.

You mentioned today that you intend to appeal, she said. Thats entirely for you and its your right to do so.

Notwithstanding that I think youll appreciate that I have to sentence you today based upon the findings that I have made.

Peddie, of Edenbridge, Kent, denied but was convicted Peddie of sending a public communication of a menacing nature.
A pedestrian wearing a face mask walks on a street in Berlin, capital of Germany, on Feb. 2, 2022. The total number of COVID-19 infections reported in Germany since the start of the pandemic surged to 10.19 million, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases said on Wednesday. (Photo by Stefan Zeitz/Xinhua)

BERLIN, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The total number of COVID-19 infections reported in Germany since the start of the pandemic surged to 10.19 million, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases said on Wednesday.

Daily COVID-19 infections reached a new all-time high as the RKI reported 208,498 new cases on Wednesday. Germany's seven-day COVID-19 incidence rate also continued to rise and hit a new record of 1,227.5 infections per 100,000 inhabitants.

At the same time, the number of patients treated in intensive care units (ICUs) remained at around 2,300, far below the peak of around 5,700 during the height of the second wave in early 2021, according to the German Intensive Care Availability Register (DIVI).

Because of the high demand for COVID-19 tests amidst the Omicron wave, laboratories in Germany continued to be "at the limit," the Association of Accredited Laboratories in Medicine (ALM) said on Tuesday.

The number of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests conducted last week reached an all-time high of 2.44 million, of which, more than 1 million came back positive, according to data by ALM.

Germany's COVID-19 measures were extended in late January and include contact restrictions, mandatory masks in schools and public transport, and the so-called 3G rule which requires valid proof of immunization after vaccination or recovery or a recent negative test in many areas of public life.

"I hope that many protective measures can be withdrawn in March," Minister of Justice Marco Buschmann told newspaper Rheinische Post on Wednesday. 

A man prepares to have a COVID-19 test at a test station in Berlin, capital of Germany, on Feb. 2, 2022. The total number of COVID-19 infections reported in Germany since the start of the pandemic surged to 10.19 million, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases said on Wednesday. (Photo by Stefan Zeitz/Xinhua)

People wearing face masks wait for a train in Berlin, capital of Germany, on Feb. 2, 2022. The total number of COVID-19 infections reported in Germany since the start of the pandemic surged to 10.19 million, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases said on Wednesday. (Photo by Stefan Zeitz/Xinhua)

A man waits to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at a vaccination center in Berlin, capital of Germany, on Feb. 2, 2022. The total number of COVID-19 infections reported in Germany since the start of the pandemic surged to 10.19 million, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases said on Wednesday. (Photo by Stefan Zeitz/Xinhua)

People line up to have COVID-19 tests at a mobile test station in Berlin, capital of Germany, on Feb. 2, 2022. The total number of COVID-19 infections reported in Germany since the start of the pandemic surged to 10.19 million, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases said on Wednesday. (Photo by Stefan Zeitz/Xinhua)

A woman wearing a face mask waits for a train in Berlin, capital of Germany, on Feb. 2, 2022. The total number of COVID-19 infections reported in Germany since the start of the pandemic surged to 10.19 million, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases said on Wednesday. (Photo by Stefan Zeitz/Xinhua)

People wait to have COVID-19 tests at a test center in Berlin, capital of Germany, on Feb. 2, 2022. The total number of COVID-19 infections reported in Germany since the start of the pandemic surged to 10.19 million, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases said on Wednesday. (Photo by Stefan Zeitz/Xinhua)
A Syrian man rides his motorcycle along damaged shops after an operation by the U.S. military in the Syrian village of Atmeh in Idlib province, Syria, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. U.S. special forces carried out what the Pentagon said was a successful, large-scale counterterrorism raid in northwestern Syria early Thursday. Local residents and activists said civilians were also among the dead. (AP Photo/Ghaith Alsayed)
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 3, 2022) - Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd. (TSXV: PEX) (OTCQB: PEXZF) ("Pacific Ridge" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has acquired a 100% interest in the Onjo copper-gold porphyry project ("Onjo" or the "Project"), located in the prolific Quesnel Trough, north central British Columbia (see Figure 1), from Orogen Royalties Inc.

Accessible via a network of forestry roads, Onjo is over 9,700 hectares in size and is located 10 km west of Centerra Gold Inc.'s Mount Milligan Mine, an alkalic porphyry copper-gold system (see Figure 2). The Project hosts skarn and alkalic porphyry copper-gold mineralization associated with monzonitic phases of the Witch Lake intrusions cutting Takla volcanic rocks, similar to the mineralization and host rocks at the Mount Milligan Mine. The style of copper-gold mineralization returned in historical drilling, combined with the presence of nearby skarn occurrences, leads Pacific Ridge to believe that past operators at Onjo encountered the upper levels of an alkalic porphyry system. Based on the above exploration hypothesis, the Company postulates that the Project has the potential to host an alkalic porphyry copper-gold deposit at depth. Pacific Ridge plans to launch an exploration program later this year with the objective of defining future drill targets.

"The style of mineralization, the accessibility, and the proximity to one of B.C.'s largest copper-gold mines make Onjo a compelling exploration project," said Blaine Monaghan, President & CEO of Pacific Ridge. "However, when you combine the above with a new exploration hypothesis, that past operators encountered the upper levels of an alkalic porphyry system, Onjo's exploration potential is doubly compelling. With the acquisition of Onjo, Pacific Ridge now has four copper-gold projects in its project portfolio, including the Company's flagship Kliyul copper-gold project, and is quickly establishing itself as one of B.C.'s leading copper-gold exploration companies."





Figure 1

The Quesnel Trough, north central British Columbia



To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/5460/112617_1edde261b4289862_001full.jpg





Figure 2

Location of Onjo



To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/5460/112617_1edde261b4289862_002full.jpg

Acquisition terms

Pacific Ridge is acquiring a 100% interest in Onjo property, subject to a 2% NSR, by paying CAD$50,000 cash and issuing 750,000 common shares of Pacific Ridge to Orogen Royalties Inc., with the option to purchase one quarter of the NSR, or 0.5%, at any time for US$1.5M. The agreement is subject to regulatory approval.

About Pacific Ridge

Our goal is to become one of the leading copper-gold exploration companies in British Columbia. Pacific Ridge's flagship project is the Kliyul copper-gold project, located in the Quesnel Trough, approximately 50 km southeast of Centerra Gold Inc's Kemess mine. In addition to Kliyul, the Company's project portfolio includes the RDP copper-gold project, the Onjo copper-gold project, and the Redton copper-gold project, all located in British Columbia. Pacific Ridge will continue to search for projects that offer discovery opportunity in our regions of expertise.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Blaine Monaghan"

Blaine Monaghan

President & CEO

Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd.

Corporate Contact:

Blaine Monaghan

President & CEO

Tel: (604) 687-4951

www.pacificridgeexploration.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-ridge-exploration-ltd-pex-

https://twitter.com/PacRidge_PEX

Investor Contact:

G2 Consultants Corp.

Telephone: +1 778-678-9050

Email: [email protected]

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

The technical information contained within this News Release has been reviewed and approved by Gerald G. Carlson, Ph.D., P.Eng., Executive Chairman of Pacific Ridge and Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 policy.

Forward-Looking Information: This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address exploration drilling and other activities and events or developments that Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd. ("Pacific Ridge") expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include plans to launch an exploration program at Onjo this year. Although Pacific Ridge believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include the potential for Onjo to host an alkalic porphyry copper-gold deposit at depth and plans to launch an exploration program later this year with the objective of defining future drill targets. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploration successes, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions including, among other things, assumptions regarding general business and economic conditions, that one of the options will be exercised, the ability of Pacific Ridge and other parties to satisfy stock exchange and other regulatory requirements in a timely manner, the availability of financing for Pacific Ridge's proposed programs on reasonable terms, and the ability of third party service providers to deliver services in a timely manner. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Pacific Ridge 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 applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/112617
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested seven private security guards and sealed three private guards companies operating illegally in Calabar, Cross River State.

The NSCDC Commandant in the state, Samuel Fadeyi, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar on Thursday.

Mr Fadeyi said the suspects were arrested in January in Calabar.

He explained that the companies were sealed for operating without a valid license, while the men were arrested for allegedly parading themselves as private guards for companies that were unknown to the corps in the state.

The affected companies are: Adonai Security Limited, Close Watch Security Limited and Excel Security and Protection Services Limited.

Mr Fadeyi said security companies must be properly licensed, monitored and evaluated to ensure that they operate in line with their mandate.

The NSCDC is saddled with the responsibility of supervising and licensing private guard companies in the country, he said

He noted that from several conferences and meetings held with the Commandant General of NSCDC, Ahmed Audi, the corps stressed extensively on issues relating to illegal private guard companies and those who have failed to renew their licence.

Towards the beginning of the year, we had to go on our normal patrol to ensure that there is calm and orderliness in view of the insecurity challenges in the country.

In the process, we saw some private guard companies in default. We had to seal three of them, and as part of our patrol, we arrested seven persons, who said they were working for companies that were unknown to us.

We need to really profile and get the biometrics of these security guards because we cannot afford to have a weakness in the area of private security guards because some of them act as informants to criminals.

As we speak, the suspects are undergoing prosecution, he said.

He said the corps organises training, workshops and seminars for private guard companies and issues certificates to them accordingly.

READ ALSO: Reps consider bill to scrap NSCDC

He advised security guard companies to maintain their standard, renew their licence when due and also do a thorough background check on those they employ as guards.

Mr Fadeyi told NAN that the corps had obtained a favourable judgement from the Federal High Court, Calabar, mandating the two trucks arrested in 2021 for conveying adulterated diesel and kerosene to be forfeited to the Federal Government.

The court made the pronouncement shortly before going on vacation that the trucks be forfeited to the Federal Government and the adulterated product be destroyed.

We are liaising with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation to see the best possible way to destroy them without endangering the environment.

We are continuing on our surveillance and I can assure you that with the support we are getting from our commandant general, we will achieve more this year, he added.

(NAN)
February 3 2022

A former hotel in Bridge of Allan has been acquired by Fairview International School to incorporate within its expanding 6.5-acre campus.

The global education provider, which operates schools throughout the UK and South East Asia, has instructed JMC Architecture to restore and transform the C-listed Royal Hotel to house boarding facilities, additional learning spaces and rooms for community use.

David Hicks, Fairview International School, Bridge of Allan Headteacher, commented: As well as becoming an addition to our campus, the facility will serve as a venue for the local community. Our vision is that of a community hub for learning and events as well as for the use of local residents."

John McHarg of JMC Architecture added: I have been involved in the conservation and renovation of many buildings around Scotland so I was absolutely delighted to be asked to assist in the renovation of such an iconic and much-loved building in the heart of the Bridge of Allan community.

"As always, buildings of this age require specialist knowledge and experience in any development and it is this that I will be bringing to all aspects of the project. It is my belief that the ongoing transformation will breathe new life not just into the building but also to the community as a whole.

Phase one of the work is scheduled to complete by late spring.
WORTHINGTON, Ohio, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Expeed Software, a leading custom software development and data and advanced analytics company founded in 2008, is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website. The new site features a streamlined modern design, improved functionality, and easy access to essential information to better help customers understand Expeed's core services and approach to their work.

Rao Chejarla, Expeed Founder and CEO, stated, "We are thrilled to launch the new website and strongly feel it will serve as a useful, informative portal for clients, partners, and visitors to grasp a better understanding of Expeed and all that we can provide."

The new Expeed.com website offers visitors:

Easy navigation  cleanly highlights the company's services, which include application / custom software development, data analytics (including advanced analytics and data science), digital transformation strategy, and user experience (UX) design.

 cleanly highlights the company's services, which include application / custom software development, data analytics (including advanced analytics and data science), digital transformation strategy, and user experience (UX) design. Quick access to news and insights  continues to share valuable industry insights and thought leadership via its informational blog posts, articles, and white papers.

 continues to share valuable industry insights and thought leadership via its informational blog posts, articles, and white papers. Case Studies - an important new feature to the site showcases some of their client work via case studies.

In addition to the new website, the company shortened their domain name to expeed.com (formerly expeedsoftware.com). The short and simple domain is clear, concise, and easy to remember, making it more identifiable to visitors and potential customers.

And finally, Expeed has refreshed its logo for an updated, modern look. The small shifts to simplify the look and feel of the logo are primarily evolutionary, with the integrity of the original logo maintained. The new logo showcases a more modern font and a new execution of the logo mark.

Expeed invites visitors to explore the new website at https://expeed.com.

About Expeed Software

Expeed Software is an IT consulting company that helps businesses of all sizes modernize, integrate, and optimize their applications and processes. They're experts in software application development, UX, data analytics, digital transformation strategy, creating flexible digital platforms empowering clients to quickly adapt to the ever-changing marketplace. Their solutions increase efficiency, minimize risk, and invent new business models using actionable reliable insights. Expeed is a privately held company headquartered in Worthington, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus, with two additional offices in India.

Related Links: https://www.expeed.com

For more information, please contact Beth Powell at (614) 559 8592 or [email protected].

SOURCE Expeed Software
The so-called Kashmir Solidarity Day observed each year on February 5 was the brain child of the Amir of Jamat e Islami Pakistan, late Qazi Hussain Ahmed.

Amjad Ayub Mirza The so-called Kashmir Solidarity Day observed each year on February 5 was the brain child of the Amir of Jamat e Islami Pakistan, late Qazi Hussain Ahmed.

When the Pakistan genocide of Kashmiri Pundits was being carried out in the Valley of Kashmir from January 1990 onwards, hypocritical Kashmir Solidarity rallies were being held in Pakistan as well as in Pakistan occupied Jammu Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan (PoJK, PoGB).

On January 28 this year, just one week before the so-called Kashmir Solidarity Day, the Commissioner called a meeting at his office in Gilgit city. It was attended by civil service heads such as the Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, head of the police department and other senior directors and sub-division officers (SDOs) of government departments.

He ordered them to bring two banners each for the February 5 rally in Gilgit city inscribed with anti-India slogans. He also asked them to make sure that each department gathers all of their employees and get them to attend the rally.

The direct and open involvement of the local administrations in organising anti-India public rallies in the guise of Kashmir solidarity is in direct contradiction to the recently-launched so-called National Security Policy (NSP).

The Gilgit pattern is not only being replicated all over PoGB, but also in PoJK and Pakistan. The Prime Minister of PoJK has been heavily criticised by the Commander of 10 Corps for his failure in conducting an impressionable protest all over PoJK on the occasion of India's 73rd Republic Day on January 26.

The failure to bring out even an insignificant number of public to hold anti-India protests in PoJK/GB and at the Indian High Commission in London on January 26 has put the operations section of both the military intelligence and the ISI under immense pressure.

All over PoJK, less than a hundred people (mostly policemen dressed in white clothes and some women borrowed from low paid jobs) could be mustered up, and in London less than 40 people turned up for the protest (most of whom were carrying yellow Khalistan flags).

One wonders how shameless the Pakistani establishment is to even talk about 'solidarity' with the people living in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir when people in PoJK and PoGB and that of Pakistan are living under the occupation of Pakistani military establishment since October 22, 1947, in abject poverty sans basic human rights? For three consecutive years, PoJK/GB has been facing severe shortages of wheat, leading to starvation in several pockets across the occupied territories, ex-service men have not received a single paisa in pensions, employees have not received salaries for a year now, load-shedding of up to 20 hours in the capital city of Gilgit and Skardu and 18 hours across PoJK, scarcity of water after our rivers were diverted to make water available for hydropower projects built by Chinese companies and producing electricity for consumption in Islamabad ad Punjab, lack of classrooms in primary and middle schools in PoJK and hospitals running without MRI, CT Scan, Doppler, ECG machines and lack of specialist doctors including gynecologists, broken road with no safety walls, and last but not the least, 2 million out of a population of 4 million forced into exile to earn a merge living for families back home.

My question is, who needs solidarity? At this crucial juncture in our history when the reunification of PoJK and PoGB with Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, respectively, seems more than just writing on the wall and at a time in history when we are faced with the worst kind of humanitarian crisis in the occupied territories, it is us, the people living under the illegal occupation of Pakistan, who need solidarity of the people of the world.

In the face of the day-to-day plight of the people of PoJK and PoGB, Pakistani state-sponsored Kashmir Solidarity Day becomes nothing but a mockery.

(Dr is an author and human rights activist from Mirpur in PoJK. He currently lives in exile in the UK. The views expressed are personal)
New Delhi, Feb 3: In an audacious attack on Pakistani security forces on Wednesday night, Baloch fighters attacked two camps in Panjgur and Naushki, both in Balochistan.

These attacks that have caused significant casualties follow a recent strike on a Pakistani check point in which 10 soldiers were killed. Analysts say that the recent spate of attacks could mean that the Baloch nationalist movement has entered an unprecedented new phase.

Giving a statement on Thursday afternoon, Pakistan Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said that nine of the attackers have been killed while four Pakistani army soldiers also laid down their lives. He lauded the role of the Pakistani armed forces.

Earlier, the Pakistani military's media wing-Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that "both attacks have been successfully repulsed while inflicting heavy casualties to terrorists". ISPR had said that one soldier and four attackers were killed in the exchange of fire.

Prime Minister Imran Khan also tweeted: "We salute our brave security forces who repulsed terrorist attacks against security forces' camps in Panjgur & Naushki, Balochistan. The nation stands united behind our security forces who continue to give great sacrifices to protect us".

This was the second time in less than a week that the prime minister had to issue a statement over attacks on security forces.

With fighting going on in the two areas, curfew has been imposed in both Panjgur and Noshki.

Geopolitical analyst and Pakistan watcher Mark Kinra told India Narrative: "Today's attack is significant because Frontier Corps (FC) is Pakistan's paramilitary force which was formed to maintain law and order situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by the British. Pakistan has used FC against Baloch nationalists for a long time to crush the national sentiment but has been unsuccessful, therefore, this attack on the FC is pay back".

Dawn newspaper said that in Panjgur, the Baloch fighters tried to enter the Frontier Corps army camp from two locations. In Noshki also the Baloch attempted to enter a Frontier Corps headquarters. The attacks were preceded by two blasts near the camps at Panjgur and Noshki.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attacks. Kinra says that this seems to be one of the biggest attacks by Baloch groups against Pakistan. "The BLA claims to have killed 100 soldiers and even claims to have occupied FC camps, which has been refuted by ISPR, which also said that the situation is under control. However, ISPR claims seem to be untrue as Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid has claimed that four soldiers have died and the Pakistan Army is trying to control the situation as Baloch Nationalists are still fighting".

Kinra adds that the BLA group headed by Bashir Zeb conducted these fidayeen attacks on the FC camps. "Attack was orchestrated by BLA Majeed Brigade (Suicide Squad). The Majeed Brigade has also carried out Pakistan Stock Exchange attack in Karachi in June 2020", adds Kinra.

Local journalists have claimed on social media that the fighting carried on till Thursday morning. There also are claims that an armoured fighting vehicle has been destroyed in Panjgur.

The Balochistan Post reported that armed helicopters have been pressed into service. The attacks seem to be well coordinated as the two districts, Noshki and Panjgur, are 460 kms away from each other.

This was the third big attack on security forces in the last one week. In one of their biggest attacks on January 25-26, the Baloch fighters attacked a check post in Kech and killed at least 10 Pakistani troops. They also set fire to the post and took away the weapons. The Baloch fighters had claimed that they had killed 17 personnel including reinforcements.

The seriousness of the Kech attack prompted Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to visit the site of the attack and speak with the troops. The Pakistan government initially hid the news of the attack and issued its first statement after three days.

Within two days of this attack, twin bomb blasts in Dera Bugti took the lives of three personnel along with a civilian. Eight other people were injured.

A week before these incidents, one of the Baloch groups had detonated bombs in a Lahore market indicating their resolve to take their battle for independence outside Balochistan.

Baloch nationalist groups have intensified their operations against Pakistani forces as well as Chinese projects being carried out under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as they feel exploited due to the nature of the projects.

Pakistan seems to be getting into a deep quagmire in Balochistan as besides the armed Baloch groups, it also has to contend with a general alienation and mass distrust. Maulana Hidayat Ur Rehman-the local Baloch leader of the Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), gave an ultimatum to the government to release the Baloch youth kidnapped by the State otherwise he will launch the long march to Quetta.

At a press conference at the Quetta Press Club on Tuesday, Maulana Baloch said that the government has not agreed to demands of the Baloch people over stopping illegal fishing in Baloch waters, creating livelihoods for local people and removing check posts by Pakistani security forces which humiliate the Baloch community.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
national president J P Nadda on Thursday called the SP "supporter of anti-nationals", alleging that the party tried to withdraw cases against "terrorists" when it was in power in Uttar Pradesh.

"Goons" is a small word for them, Nadda said here at Sirathu after Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya submitted his nomination papers for the state Assembly polls.

"They are supporters of anti-nationals," said Nadda, alleging that the Akhilesh Yadav-led previous regime in the state tried to withdraw cases against "terrorists" involved in bomb blasts in the state.

A special court in Gorakhpur has awarded life sentence to one of them, Nadda said.

"In another incident, a CRPF camp in Rampur was attacked, in which seven soldiers were killed. The CBI arrested seven people in the case but Akhilesh Yadav tried to withdraw the case against them on the directions of the person, who is currently fighting the elections from jail," Nadda alleged, apparently referring to leader Azam Khan.

"Of the seven, four were awarded capital punishment and three got life imprisonment," he said.

If such people rule state, there will be "mafira raj",Nadda said.

"Their leaders are resting either in jails or are out on bail," he added.

Nadda also accused opposition parties of being promoting casteism and dynastic politics.

He said the scrapped the special status of Jammu and Kashmir with the strategy of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and conviction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"We are busy in the construction of the Ram temple but other parties are busy obstructing it. People who were responsible for firing on 'kar sewaks' are now visiting temples," he said referring to an incident during the regime in 1990.

He also credited PM Modi with the construction of a new corridor at the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi.

Our party has brought a law against triple talaq, which the parties who do politics of appeasement were not able to do despite a Supreme Court order, Nadda claimed.

"Modi has provided Rs 5 lakh health insurance cover to poor people of the country, he said.

Hitting out at the Samajwadi Party, the president said, "They are saying that they will give free electricity. When they were in power, they didn't even gave electricity. We have ensured that electricity reaches every corner of the state."



The rally was also addressed by BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan and Apna Dal (S) chief Anupriya Patel.

They all sought votes for the Maurya from Sirathu and for the NDA to form next BJP government in the state.

(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.)
DES MOINES  Education policy affecting K-12 schools, including creating a parental bill of rights and a voucher program allowing families to use public money for private tuition, was front and center Wednesday at the Iowa Capitol.

Up for discussion were legislative proposals that would:

 Create a parents bill of rights to guarantee parents access to curriculum, information related to teachers and other school workers, and records relating to their student; and to prohibit requiring any student to engage in any instruction or activity that involves content that is obscene as defined by state law.

 Expand a state program that provides grants to teachers and add some focus to small, rural schools; provide an accelerated path a teachers license; and authorize districts to use their funds to create a student loan forgiveness program for new teachers.

 And, under a sweeping proposal from Gov. Kim Reynolds, expand the program that uses taxpayer funding for private school tuition assistance, require schools to publish a catalog of all curriculum and library materials online and require schools to establish a process for addressing parents concerns about those materials.

Governors bill

A packed committee room, plus dozens more who participated virtually, discussed the governors bill. Earlier in the day, Reynolds made a pitch for her bill during a news conference.

I think informed parents make informed choices, Reynolds said, referring to the transparency piece of her proposal. She added, on the taxpayer funding for private school tuition, If (a public school) doesnt reflect your values, then as a parent, you should have an option. And it shouldnt just be for wealthy people that can afford to send their child to the school that they want to.

At the hearing, many parents, private school students and advocates for school choice spoke in favor the taxpayer-funded tuition assistance. The legislation was advanced to the full Senate Education Committee.

We Iowa taxpayers fund education in the first place for children. Its not for buildings, its not even primarily for school personnel. Its for the kids, said Chuck Hurley, with the Family Leader, a conservative Christian advocacy organization.

Advocates for public education expressed concern about what the funding of private tuition could mean for the future of public education, and that the taxpayer-funded tuition assistance does not come with the same degree of oversight as does public education funding.

If youre going to accept the kings coin, you should follow the kings rule. That doesnt happen in this bill, said Melissa Petersen, with the Iowa State Education Association, the states largest public education union.

Parents bill of rights

The proposed parents bill of rights received widespread support, from both Republicans and Democrats on the legislative panel, as well as advocates for education and parents. The measure was advanced to the full Senate Education Committee.

Sen. Amy Sinclair, a Republican from Allerton and chair of the Senate Education Committee, said the bill effectively puts into state law many practices that already are taking place and gathers into one place the current court rulings and federal regulations.

We want to bring it all into one place to talk about that parents are ultimately in the drivers seat in their childs education, Sinclair said.

Sen. Herman Quirmbach, a Democrat from Ames, a professor at Iowa State University and the top Democrat on the Education Committee, said he supports the legislation and its intent of keeping parents involved in their childrens education.

Certainly we want parents involved in their childrens education. Theres no question about that whatsoever, Quirmbach said. You cant do that if parents are not informed.  We need to have schools and parents working together, and parents need to have that information.

A number of parents attended the hearing to express concerns with books in school libraries. Nationwide, there has been a push by some parents who want the removal of some books they deem to be obscene or graphic. While the books vary, they typically involve LGBTQ characters or are written by LGBTQ authors, and the objections are over passages that describe sexual acts.

Some of the parents who attended the hearing asked lawmakers to change the states definition of obscene in order to make the use of those books illegal.

Quirmbach and Sen. Jeff Taylor, a Republican from Sioux Center, explained that would be challenging and potentially troublesome because the state definition of obscene was compiled using years of case law, including U.S. Supreme Court rulings.

Teacher shortage

The Senate Education Committee approved with bipartisan support proposals meant to address teacher shortages.

Quirmbach said he likes the proposals, but added that another way to help schools to attract and retain teachers would be to provide more state funding so districts could pay higher salaries.

On the school funding front, Reynolds has proposed a 2.5% increase in general state funding to K-12 public schools. That would be an increase of roughly $154 million. Senate Republicans have proposed a 2.25% increase. Democrats have proposed a 5% increase, which would be just less than $300 million in new funding.

Historically, general state funding to K-12 schools increased an average of 5% annually over the first 38 years under the current funding formula, according to data from the states nonpartisan fiscal analysis agency. Since 2011, when Republicans regained at least a portion of control over the lawmaking process, that average annual K-12 funding increase has been 1.9%.
New delhi, Feb 3: Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan is visiting Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, from February 3. His mission? To assure Ukraine of Turkish support at a time when Russia has amassed 100,000 troops along the Ukrainian border. It is fairly obvious that the wily Turkish leader, obsessed with the idea of reviving the Ottoman empire, wishes to play the role of potential peace-maker to break the impasse between Moscow and Kiev.

As in a number of conflict zones - North Africa, the Middle East, and the South Caucasus, Turkey is trying to intervene in Ukraine too, though choosing to adopt a relatively lower profile. President Erdogan has repeatedly offered to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodimir Zhelensky, as part of his effort to mediate between the two antagonists.

"Turkey is trying to play an independent active role in many geopolitical conflict zones, including Ukraine. It is quite logical for the Turkish state leader to propose to Russia and Ukraine his role as a peace-maker and intermediary,' says Ukrainian academic and political analyst Valentin Yakushik. But he cautions that the "real levers of solving the current geopolitical conflict around Ukraine are held in Washington." It is this that may hold the key to Turkey's interest vis-a-vis Ukraine.

Certainly, Turkey, as a NATO member, cannot be indifferent to the conflict. It has also clashed with Russia in a number of conflict zones, most notably in Syria where an impasse persists. In spite of ironing out some of its differences with Russia following the failed coup attempt in 2016, Turkey has refused to recognize the Crimea as Russian territory after Russia annexed the region in 2014, home to its critically important Sevastopol naval base in the Black Sea. Instead, Ankara has kept up a steady emotive rhetoric in solidarity with Crimean Tatars, also a fellow Turkic community.

In Kiev, among other things, Erdogan will oversee the signing of a free trade agreement with the Ukraine, Turkey's Anadolu News Agency has announced. Trade between Ukraine and Turkey has almost doubled over the past few years, amounting to $7 billion. Turkey also became Ukraine's largest investor in 2020. Defence collaboration is also going strong with Ukraine set to start joint production of Turkey's "game changer" Bayraktar TBT 2 drones. It has also used these drones against rebels in Donelson, who are backed by Russia.

A Turkish official has been quoted by the London based Middle East Eye that "Ukraine is like a dam that stops further Russian influence and pressure in the region." Nevertheless, Turkey has limited space to manoeuvre this time. As it learnt the hard way after shooting down a Russian aircraft in 2015, that upsetting Russia would boomerang on itself. With its struggling economy Turkey will not risk something similar like a tourist ban from Russia, when Russian tourists comprise 20 percent of all foreign visitors to Turkey. Besides, Turkey has purchased the S-400 Triumf missile system from Russia - a move that upset Ankara's ties with Washington. Turkey also depends on Russia for its gas imports. Moscow is also building Turkey's first nuclear power plant, further increasing Russia's leverages vis-a-vis Turkey.

According to Russian-Kyrgyz analyst Alexander Sobianin, Turkey is furthering the American strategy by confronting Russia with its inroads into places like Syria and the South Caucasus, and now in Ukraine. The rest is for domestic consumption with Erdogan's AKP party's waning popularity amongst Turks. Together with a struggling economy it will be interesting to watch how the President's visit to Ukraine pans out.

(Aditi Bhaduri is a columnist specialising in Eurasian geopolitics. Views expressed are personal and exclusive to India Narrative) (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Preeclampsia Foundation announced today the recipients of its 2022 Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants at the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine 42nd Annual Pregnancy Meeting. Based on the recommendations of its Scientific Advisory Council, the Preeclampsia Foundation awarded these two-year grants totaling $195,025 USD to Brian Cox, PhD, Associate Professor at the University of Toronto Department of Physiology, and Amit Zeisel, PhD and Ido Solt, MD, Assistant Professors at Technion, Israel Institute of Technology.

The team from Technion Research and Development Foundation: (left to right) Dr. Ido Solt, PhD candidate and preeclampsia survivor Inbal Admati, Dr. Amit Zeisel, MSc candidate Niv Skarbianskis, and postdoctoral researcher Hannah Hochgerner. Brian Cox, PhD, Associate Professor at the University of Toronto Department of Physiology

Some of the research will utilize data available through The Preeclampsia Registry, the Preeclampsia Foundation's dynamic database of consented participants that includes preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome survivors, family members, and controls.

Principal Investigator Brian Cox, PhD, and his project, Subtyping and clustering of preeclampsia, a personalized medicine approach to improve prediction, will be carried out at the Department of Physiology at the University of Toronto. The study will look at formally establishing preeclampsia subtypes to better predict when the disease's symptoms will begin and when delivery may be needed. The study's approach will utilize clustering and dimension reduction methods to find subgroups in pregnancy and associated subtypes of PE by analyzing three data cohorts comprising over 10,000 pregnancies.

Principal Investigators Amit Zeisel, PhD and Ido Solt, MD, and their project, Cell-type specific differences between preeclampsia and normal placentas using unbiased single-cell RNA-sequencing, will be carried out at the Technion Research and Development Foundation. The study will focus on the difference between preeclamptic placentas and those of non-affected pregnancies by measuring tens of thousands of placenta cells, one cell at a time, using a state-of-the-art method called single-cell RNA-sequencing. Discovering the differences between preeclamptic and normal placentas at a cellular level could contribute to the understanding of the basic, initial mechanisms of the disease  a crucial step towards predicting and preventing preeclampsia. Importantly, the collected datasets will be used to construct an open, easily accessible online resource to serve as a reference atlas of human placenta in health and disease that will be broadly available to the larger research community.

Named for the infant son of preeclampsia survivor Lauren Pappas and her husband Clement, the Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants program award grants totaling up to $200,000 each year. The ultimate goal of the program is to drive research that will eliminate the delivery of pre-term babies as an intervention for severe preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and related hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

"We lost our son Peter due to preeclampsia following a 29-week delivery in 2015," explained Lauren Pappas. "Since then we have dedicated our lives to helping others avoid the same outcome by establishing the Peter Joseph Pappas Fund."

"Thanks to generous contributions from family and friends, and our partnership with the Preeclampsia Foundation, we are making strides to reach our ultimate goal of eliminating pre-term births due to preeclampsia by 2050," added Clement Pappas.

The Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants program adds to the Preeclampsia Foundation's portfolio of research programs including the Vision Grant program for young investigators, PRIME for health services research, and EMPOWER, which helps build research capacity in low- and middle-income countries.

Questions about Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grants program? Email [email protected].

About the Preeclampsia Foundation

The Preeclampsia Foundation is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2000 to improve the outcomes of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy by educating, supporting, and engaging the community, improving healthcare practices, and finding a cure. We envision a world where preeclampsia and related hypertensive disorders of pregnancy no longer threaten the lives of mothers and babies. For more information, visit www.preeclampsia.org .

About the Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grant Program

Clement and Lauren Pappas of Philadelphia, PA, lost their firstborn child, Peter Joseph, after HELLP syndrome necessitated his early delivery. Their son, born at 29 weeks' gestation, spent a week in the neonatal intensive care unit before dying from a central line infection. The Pappas family, along with friends and family, have established this special fund with the Preeclampsia Foundation to advance research, with the overarching goal of eliminating pre-term births due to preeclampsia by 2050.

Contact: Laney Poye

Director of Communications and Engagement

321.421.6957

[email protected]

SOURCE Preeclampsia Foundation
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Graystone Company, Inc. (OTC: GYST), is pleased to provide its preliminary unaudited financial results for the month ending January 31, 2022.

Preliminary results for our total unaudited revenues have increased to approximately $185,000 for January, consisting of (1) cryptocurrency mining, (2) sales of mining equipment and (3) realized gain on sales of digital currencies. The beginning of 2022 has been very productive for the company and financial results for the first month of the new year have already exceeded our revenues for our entire Fiscal Year of 2021.

"It has been an amazing journey since we launched our bitcoin mining operations in September 2021 and expanded to include equipment sales in October 2021. In terms of revenues, January of 2022 was GYST's best month to date. With the steady growth of our company, we are committed to expand our bitcoin mining operations and are actively exploring opportunities on the Metaverse platforms. We are constantly seeking strategic partners, creative business solutions and additional revenue sources that are complementary to GYST's core business plan. With our on-going strategic initiatives, the Company is very well positioned for the rest of 2022 and beyond," said Anastasia Shishova, CEO of The Graystone Company.

About The Graystone Company, Inc.

The Graystone Company has two distinct lines of business: (1) Bitcoin Mining; and (2) sale and hosting of Bitcoin mining equipment. The Company launched its Bitcoin Mining operation in May 2021 and began selling mining equipment in October 2021. The Company's Bitcoin mining wallet address can be viewed at anytime using this link: https://www.blockchain.com/btc/address/32nWKSce24EPUGXnkfqVdvUyWbrVUmwpAr. The Graystone Company, Inc. (OTC PINK: GYST) is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, FL., and can be contacted at www.thegraystonecompany.com or by phone at (954) 271-2704.

Corporate Website: www.thegraystonecompany.com

Corporate Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheGraystoneco

Graystone Mining Twitter: https://twitter.com/Graystonemining

*Revenue related calculations. Please note that the Company believes that any revenue related calculations are accurate and based on factual information, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to achieve all projections due to number of business-related factors, such as equipment pricing, mining equipment availability, bitcoin mining difficulty, bitcoin market pricing and other unforeseen issues in deploying its mining rigs. You can view update information on Bitcoin Mining by visiting https://minerstat.com/coin/BTC.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements in this press release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that any beliefs, plans, expectations and intentions contained in this press release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate.

For more information:



Graystone Company

Anastasia Shishova

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (954) 271-2704

SOURCE Graystone Company, Inc.
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SDR Ventures is pleased to announce that Acuity Ag Solutions ("Acuity" or "the Company"), a subsidiary company of Maschhoff Family Foods ("The Maschhoffs" or "MFF") has been acquired by Fast Genetics a subsidiary of STgenetics ("STgen"). SDR served as the exclusive sell-side advisor to Acuity and The Maschhoffs throughout the transaction process.

SDR Ventures Advises Acuity Ag Solutions, a Subsidiary of Maschhoff Family Foods on Acquisition by Fast Genetics, a Subsidiary of STgenetics

Carlyle, Illinois-based Acuity is a rapidly growing swine genetics business founded by The Maschhoffs - the largest family-owned pork production business in North America. The Maschhoffs formed Acuity in the mid-2000s to select a pig that was more fit for their commercial production system. The success of their selection program led to the launch of Acuity Ag Solutions. The Maschhoffs are the largest family-owned pork producer in the U.S. and were ranked number 6 in the USA and number 18 globally on the National Hog Farmer's, 2020 Global Mega producer list.

The roots of Maschhoffs Family Foods date back to 1851 in Carlyle, Illinois. Maschhoffs Family Foods has preserved its family culture throughout its history. Throughout the past decade, MFF has brought the company to its current size of more than 180,000 sows, with a 7-state footprint. Today, the business finds itself in a unique position. It is one of the largest family-owned hog production networks in North America. And, yet, the family values remain embedded in the culture.

Acuity will now join Fast Genetics with the goal of becoming the most technologically advanced swine breeding stock company in the world. Current, as well as new customers, can look forward to a wider variety of breeding stock, faster genetic improvement from new breeding programs, and even better customer service from a larger team to support their needs. Acuity will continue to provide genetics for The Maschhoffs' system, focused on producing a full value pig. They are credited for developing a novel genetic selection program capable of using a Commercial Test Herd to establish a proven crossbred EBV program. Fast Genetics and Acuity share the same belief and passion for delivering the most value to customers through a "commodity plus strategy".

"We are excited about this next phase of genetic development within The Maschhoffs' system. This new alignment with Fast Genetics will add considerable value to our pork value chain," said Dr. Bradley Wolter, CEO of The Maschhoffs. "Our team is incredibly thankful for the level of dedication and professionalism that the SDR Ventures team showed throughout the entire process, as they ensured that the legacy of the Acuity brand would be well-positioned for enduring success."

"As we explored the options for the Acuity business, it became increasingly apparent that Fast Genetics and STgen would be a great strategic partner for both The Maschhoffs and all the other Acuity stakeholders including customers, employees, management, and its supply-chain partners. The SDR Ventures team is eager to watch the alliance of Acuity and Fast Genetics flourish for years to come," commented Eric Bosveld, Senior Advisor of Food & Agribusiness at SDR Ventures.

Fast Genetics was purchased by ST Genetics in 2015 from HyLife, a Canadian-based pork producer, processor, and important customer. Fast Genetics will continue to lead the industry in providing producers with the most stable supply of high health, balanced and efficient animals. Fast Genetics is also piloting the use of sex sorted sperm and advanced DNA testing which will benefit The Maschhoffs and other Acuity customers. Fast Genetics and Acuity have complementary infrastructure, personnel, and genetic lines which will accelerate proprietary technology improvements and drive results to producers.

"Collaboratively, we are looking forward to a bright future in maximizing the value they can deliver to producers around the world. Our new partnership will give producers a wider variety of products to access and will increase our nucleus herd size for more rapid genetic improvement. With the best genetics and technologies, we are well-positioned to grow our global distribution together," added Juan F Moreno, CEO of STgen.

Contact:

Zack Przekop

720.221.9220

[email protected]

SOURCE SDR Ventures
Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism, a GSA of Turkish Airlines in Dubai and the Northern Emirates since 1983 and part of the Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group, recently celebrated the airlines 40 years of services in the UAE.



With over 45 years of experience, the dynamic travel and tourism company enjoys an unparalleled reputation for quality and excellence encompassing all aspects of the travel industry.



Turkish Airlines, famed for flying to more countries than any other airline, marked its 40-year anniversary of flying to the UAE in tandem with the UAE's Golden Jubilee celebrations.



The airline, established in 1933 with a fleet of five aircraft launched its first Middle East flights to Beirut and Cairo in 1951, while the first Turkish Airlines flight landed in Abu Dhabi on 7th January 1981 with the route relaunching on January 25, 2006.



The inaugural flight to Dubai was operated on November 5, 1983, while the daily Sharjah route was launched on April 11, 2019.



Nasir Jamal Khan, Chief Executive Officer, Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism said: On behalf of the entire organisation at Al Naboodah Travel, we extend our sincerest congratulations to our partner Turkish Airlines for completing 40 glorious years of success in the UAE. We hope to continue our wonderful relationship for years to come. This is a significant milestone in the journey of any airline that has stood the test of time to metamorphose in a globally competitive aviation industry.



Currently Turkish Airlines operates 28 weekly flights to the UAE (21 weekly flights between Istanbul Airport and Dubai Airport, 3 weekly flights between Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport and Dubai Airport and 4 weekly flights between Istanbul Airport and Abu Dhabi Airport).  TradeArabia News Service
PORTLAND, Ore., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research recently published a report, titled, "Fire Hydrants Market by Product Type (Dry Barrel and Wet Barrel), Operating Type (Conventional and Smart), Construction (Underground and Above Ground), and End User (Commercial and Industrial): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20212030". As per the report, the global fire hydrant industry was pegged at $1.13 billion in 2020, and is projected to reach $1.77 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2021 to 2030.

Major determinants of the market growth

Surge in commercial and industrial buildings, growth in human and property loss from fire breakouts, and strict implications about installation of fire protection systems have boosted the growth of the global fire hydrants market. However, high installation and maintenance costs hinder the market growth. On the contrary, surge in demand for smart fire hydrants is expected to open new opportunities for the market players in the future.

Download Sample PDF: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/7109

Covid-19 scenario:

The Covid-19 pandemic forced several companies to halt their operations for short time to comply with new government regulations to curb the spread of the diseases. Moreover, lack of raw materials and manpower during the lockdown hampered the market growth.

The halt in construction activities and lockdown affected the demand for fire hydrants.

The dry barrel segment held the lion's share

By product type, the dry barrel segment held the largest share in 2020, accounting for more than three-fifths of the global fire hydrants market, due to increase in urbanization and industrialization. However, the wet barrel segment is projected to register the highest CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period, owing to rise in spending on construction projects and government initiatives to minimize property damage.

Get detailed COVID-19 impact analysis on the Fire Hydrants Market: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-for-customization/7109

The smart segment to manifest the highest CAGR through 2030

By operating type, the smart segment is estimated to portray the highest CAGR of 8.0% during the forecast period, due to rise in need to prevent spread of fire by assisting firefighters in knocking out fires. However, the conventional segment held the largest share in 2020, contributing to more than 95% of the global fire hydrants market, owing to rise in fire incidents across the U.K. and North America.

North America held the largest share

By region, the global fire hydrants market across North America dominated in 2020, accounting for nearly half of the market, due to rise in construction activities. However, the market across Asia-Pacific is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period, due to rapid industrialization and presence of large population.

Major market players

American Cast Iron Company AVK International A/S

Compagnie De Saint -Gobain S.A.

EJ Group, Inc

Grundfos Holding A/S

Kupferle Foundry Company

McWane, Inc

Mueller Water Products, Inc

Talis Management Holding GmbH

Terminal City Iron Works Ltd

Bocciolone Antincendio S.P.A.

CSA S.R.L.

HAWLE BETEILIGUNGSGESELLSCHAFT m.b.H.

IMP Armature D.O.O.

Rapidrop Global Ltd

Newage Fire Fighting Co. Ltd

NT Agni Solutions Pvt Ltd

Shaoxing Shangyu Hongye Fire Protection Equipment Factory (HONGYE)

Smith & Sharks Projects Pvt Ltd

Steel Recon Industries SDN. BHD.

Torvac Solutions PTY Ltd

ALBILAD Fire Fighting Systems Company, Ltd

Bristol Fire Engineering

NAFFCO FZCO

SFFECO Global

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Patna, Feb 3 : The Immigration Department has arrested main accused Daljit Singh Bal in Punjab and Maharashtra Co-operative bank (PMC) multi billion dollar scam from Raxaul border of Bihar, the police on Thursday.

Mohammad Ayub, the SHO of Raxaul police station confirmed the development with IANS. "Bal is under detention in Raxaul police station. He was trying to cross the border at 10 p.m. on Wednesday night. The sleuths of immigration department detained him after seeing his suspicious behaviour. We have informed the district court and also informed Maharashtra police about the arrest." Bal was trying to leave the country. He was on the way to Nepal by crossing Raxaul border and further towards Canada.

Bal, the former director of PMC bank, is an accused of Rs 4,355 crore scam which happened in 2019. The Economic Offences Wing of the Maharashtra Police (EOW) had registered an FIR against him in Mumbai.

According to the official of immigration department in Raxaul, Bal was on the run ever since an FIR was registered against him in Mumbai.

"He was intercepted during routine questioning. His suspicious activities during the questioning attracted our attention. He fumbled several times while asking for the purpose of visiting Nepal," an official of immigration department said.

"Due to his suspicious behaviour, we have detained him for thorough investigation. He finally broke down and revealed his original identity," he said.

"The accused confessed that he was a fugitive fraudster for the last 2 years. He reached the Raxaul border through rail and road networks," he said.

"We have informed EOW Mumbai about the arrest of Daljit Singh Bal. He will be handed over after arrival at Raxaul," he further said.
NEW YORK and TORONTO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - iAnthus Capital Holdings, Inc. ("iAnthus" or the "Company") (CSE: IAN) (OTC: ITHUF), which owns, operates and partners with regulated cannabis operations across the United States, announces the closing of its acquisition of 100% of the equity interests of MPX New Jersey, LLC ("MPX NJ"), a medical cannabis permit holder in New Jersey.

The Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, iAnthus New Jersey, LLC ("iAnthus NJ"), pursuant to a loan agreement (the "Loan Agreement") with MPX NJ dated October 24, 2018, exercised its right to convert the principal balance of the loans and accrued interest owed thereon into a 99% equity interest in MPX NJ, which conversion was subject to certain regulatory approvals. In addition, pursuant to an option agreement (the "Option Agreement") of the same date with MPX NJ and its current equityholders, iAnthus NJ exercised its option to acquire the remaining 1% of MPX NJ for nominal consideration, again subject to certain regulatory approvals. iAnthus NJ exercised its rights under the Loan Agreement and Option Agreement on February 3, 2021 and February 25, 2021, respectively.

On January 7, 2022, the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission ("CRC") approved iAnthus NJ's acquisition of 100% of the equity interests of MPX NJ pursuant to the Loan Agreement and Option Agreement and on February 1, 2022, iAnthus NJ closed the acquisition.

As previously announced in the Company's February 2, 2021 news release, iAnthus NJ issued US$11 million aggregate principal amount of senior secured bridge notes, the net proceeds of which are being used primarily for the construction and improvements of facilities leased by iAnthus NJ. Since that time, iAnthus NJ has continued to make significant construction progress at its cultivation and manufacturing facility in Pleasantville, New Jersey and intends to commence operations in the near term. Additionally, upon receipt of the necessary approvals from the CRC, MPX NJ expects to open its dispensary facility in Atlantic City, New Jersey in the next few months, and then two prospective satellite dispensaries in New Jersey upon approval of MPX NJ's pending satellite applications filed with the New Jersey Department of Health in December, 2020. The Company is pleased to have achieved this milestone and is looking forward to bringing top-quality branded cannabis products and exceptional retail experiences to medical cannabis patients in southern New Jersey as soon as possible.

As disclosed in the Company's news release dated December 9, 2021, regulatory approvals in Massachusetts,1 New York, Maryland and Florida2 necessary to close the Company's previously announced recapitalization transaction ("Recapitalization Transaction") remain outstanding. Subsequent to the Company's acquisition of MPX NJ, prior regulatory approval from the CRC for the change of beneficial ownership of MPX NJ that would result from the Recapitalization Transaction is now required in New Jersey as a condition to closing under the Restructuring Support Agreement dated July 10, 2020, as amended.



___________________________________

1 On June 17, 2021, the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (the "CCC") approved the proposed change of ownership and control of the current licenses held by the Company's wholly-owned subsidiaries, Mayflower Medicinals, Inc. ("Mayflower") and Cannatech Medicinals, Inc., contemplated by the Recapitalization Transaction (the "June 17 Approval"). On August 12, 2021, Mayflower's pending application for a Marijuana Establishment retail license for its Allston, Massachusetts retail location (the "Allston Retail License") was approved by the CCC at its August public meeting. As a result of this August 12, 2021 approval, Mayflower submitted a new change of ownership and control application to the CCC in connection with the Recapitalization Transaction with respect to the Allston Retail License (the "New COC Application"). The New COC Application must be approved by the CCC before the June 17 Approval can be effectuated.





2 On October 29, 2021, the Florida Department of Health, Office of Medical Marijuana Use (the "OMMU") approved the variance request filed by the Company's subsidiary, McCrory's Sunny Hill Nursery, LLC d/b/a GrowHealthy ("McCrory's") to approve the prospective change of beneficial ownership of McCrory's contemplated by the Recapitalization Transaction (the "Variance Request"). As disclosed in the Company's news release dated December 9, 2021, Michael Weisser, Benjamin Pollara and Florida for Care, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation representing members including qualified Florida medical marijuana patients, filed a Petition for Formal Administrative Hearing (the "Petition") with the OMMU, challenging the OMMU's approval of the Variance Request and requesting a formal administrative hearing before an administrative law judge at the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. The OMMU has informed the Company that, as a result of the filing of the Petition challenging the agency's decision within the permissible challenge period, the OMMU's prior approval is not an enforceable final agency order until there is a final resolution of the Petition and a final agency order rendered under Rule 28-106 of the Florida Administrative Code, and Sections 120.569 and 120.57 of the Florida Statutes.

About iAnthus

iAnthus owns and operates licensed cannabis cultivation, processing and dispensary facilities throughout the United States. For more information, visit www.iAnthus.com.

COVID-19 Risk Factor

The Company may be impacted by business interruptions resulting from pandemics and public health emergencies, including those related to COVID-19. An outbreak of infectious disease, a pandemic, or a similar public health threat, such as the recent outbreak of COVID-19, or a fear of any of the foregoing could adversely impact the Company by causing operating, manufacturing, supply chain, and project development delays and disruptions, labor shortages, travel, and shipping disruption and shutdowns (including as a result of government regulation and prevention measures). It is unknown whether and how the Company may be affected if such a pandemic persists for an extended period of time, including as a result of the waiver of regulatory requirements or the implementation of emergency regulations to which the Company is subject. Although the Company has been deemed essential and/or has been permitted to continue operating its facilities in the states in which it cultivates, processes, manufactures, and sells cannabis during the pendency of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is no assurance that the Company's operations will continue to be deemed essential and/or will continue to be permitted to operate. The Company may incur expenses or delays relating to such events outside of its control, which could have a material adverse impact on its business, operating results, financial condition, and the trading price of the Company's common shares.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this news release contain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of management, are not guarantees of performance and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. These forward-looking statements should, therefore, be considered in light of various important factors, including those set forth in Company's reports that it files from time to time with the SEC and the Canadian securities regulators, which you should review including, but not limited to, the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC. When used in this news release, words such as "will", "could", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "potential" "believe", "should" and similar expressions, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements relating to the Company's financial performance, business development and results of operations, the timing and outcome of the closing of the Recapitalization Transaction, the timeline for commencement of operations in New Jersey.

These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as predictions of future events, and the Company cannot assure you that the events or circumstances discussed or reflected in these statements will be achieved or will occur. If such forward-looking statements prove to be inaccurate, the inaccuracy may be material. You should not regard these statements as a representation or warranty by the Company or any other person that it will achieve its objectives and plans in any specified timeframe, or at all. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date of this news release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor The Securities Exchange Commission have reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release.

SOURCE iAnthus Capital Holdings, Inc.
Anti-democracy Collides with Theology, Threatens National Disintegration, and Demands Believers to Seek the Remedial Intervention of God  Gospelizer Dr. McCray

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Black Light Fellowship

Feb. 3, 2022



CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /Christian Newswire/ -- Gospelizer Dr. McCray compels believers to seek a Divine intervention that will alleviate the political crisis facing the nation. "Defiant Political Oppressors Invite a Divine Judgment" addresses crucial consequences and righteous responses when political oppression and anti-democracy practices collide with theological beliefs.



Dr. McCray writes,

"Given the uncertain state of our currently treacherous political-social affairs, the favor of a Divine retribution may ultimately become the only viable experience that can save our tottering nation from imploding and tearing itself apart at the seams."

Authentic people of faith must petition the High God to effect a special Divine judgment. Though its consequences are dire, such an intervention may be the safest and most enduring option for preserving the soul of the nation's democracytrue, just, and free.



God's gift of social-political freedom is an inherent right of humanity. Theological trajectory indicates that serious spiritual-social consequences await unrepentant political subverters. Hebrew-Christian tradition argues that social oppressors should fear God's inevitable retribution. Its "Red Sea" event (Deuteronomy 11) prophesies suffering for anti-democracy operatives who foolishly pursue political malfeasance.



Extreme Trumpism has intensified since the insurrection of January 6, 2021. Political defiance continues eroding the nation's integritycivil, political, muti-racial, and multicultural. The national moral ethos is cancerous: upholding subversion, opposing the Select Committee's insurrection investigation; Trump pardoning offenders if elected in 2024, stoking mass protests, propagating the "Big Lie" disinformation campaign; blocking voting rights, sabotaging fair election processesall reveal political oppression.



In such an adverse climate, Dr. McCray states that

"It is the responsibility of the oppressed to genuinely petition and engage with God . . . to secure His miraculous deliverance."

Rev. Dr. Walter Arthur McCray, a "certified Black evangelical," is author of 20+ publications including the well-known classics "The Black Presence in the Bible" (vol 1), and The Black "Presence in the Bible and The Table of Nations: Genesis 10:1-32" (vol 2). Publisher of Black Light Fellowship, media outlets have featured his insights, including Newsweek, WOOC-FM, and WVON-FM. A Chicago-based Pastor, Dr. McCray is a Gospelizer"a Good-News messenger of the resurrected Lord, Jesus Christ." A Christian minister for 50+ years, he is president of the National Black Evangelical Association (Chicago).



SOURCE Black Light Fellowship



CONTACT: 773-826-7790, info@blacklightfellowship.com


Roman Catholics to fast again

The laws of fast and abstinence of the Roman Catholic Church are to be reintroduced in the Archdiocese of Sydney, at the direction of Cardinal Gilroy. The Pope had agreed to grant dispensation from these Church laws in Australia during the war years, because of the scarcity of meat substitutes. The Cardinals decision will mean that Catholics must observe the laws of fast and abstinence during the Lenten period.

Horror camp sentences

Five women and six men were sentenced to death by hanging for atrocities at the Nazis Ravensbruck womens concentration camp. All 15 members of the camp staff on trial were found guilty. Ravensbruck camp was a notorious experimental centre for German doctors and the Luftwaffe. Thousands of prisoners were poisoned, drowned, gassed, shot, tortured or frozen to death, many in the name of science. A number of Allied agents were killed there.

Scientists try to alter the weather
DETROIT, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Move over Keith Morrison, true crime has a new face  and it comes via profile pictures.

With the popularity of crime documentaries and news magazines, the 2010s saw the rise of "armchair detectives"  a wave of crime solvers working from their living rooms. Think Netflix megahit, Don't F**k with Cats.

CrimeCasters Hosts Ronnie Dahl and Alysia Sofios.

Now, the younger generation is taking over  one cellphone at a time.

From Reddit to Instagram, the true crime obsessed are commenting their way to solving cold cases. And IRL ("in real life" for the not as text savvy among us) detectives are taking notice.

During the pandemic, Michigan's Troy Police Department released dozens of clues to an unsolved 1978 murder on Twitter  the case of Gail Webster, a mother of three and grandmother.

Detectives tweeted out crime scene photos, documents, and other evidence, hoping its social audience could help solve it. The campaign reignited the cold case and many tipsters came forward.

This approach to crime solving is not always a positive though. Sometimes, social media sleuths can go too far.

Take the recent case of TikToker @sabrinaprater625 who rose to TikTok fame by dancing inside her fixer-upper Flint home.

Her short videos garnered tens of millions of views, until users noticed strange things in the background  like images of women on monitors, and a dead deer in a cage.

Within weeks, the hashtag #sabrinapraterconspiracy was trending, with users believing Sabrina may be a kidnapper, animal abuser, and even a serial killer.

Veteran crime journalists Alysia Sofios and Ronnie Dahl decided to see if there was any truth to the rumors.

"We did it the old-fashioned way. We knocked on her door," says Sofios. "Surprisingly, she was eager to let us in and put all the crazy rumors to rest."

The pair recently posted a ten-part interview with Prater on TikTok, where she says the ordeal was traumatic and warns against amateur detectives, aka "tiktoktectives" jumping to conclusions based only on what they see on social media. It prompted big-name influencers to retract their earlier conspiracy videos and issue apologies.

Sofios and Dahl hope to find a happy medium with social sleuths on their new interactive podcast, CrimeCasters Network.

The show highlights cases the pair has covered over the years that are either unsolved or have outstanding questions.

"We use research, documents from case files, and our sources to put the information out there," says Dahl. "Then we will livestream on social to brainstorm possible answers with our audience."

"I have a feeling this hybrid approach is the key to solving some of these mysteries. It will lead to justice for a lot of families," Sofios says.

Only time will tell.

CrimeCasters Network launches this week with a new prison confession from "Acid Queen" Larissa Schuster  the biochemist who murdered her husband by submerging him a vat of acid.

Media Contact:

Ronnie Dahl

(818) 394-0458

[email protected]

SOURCE CrimeCasters Network
A delegation representing Saudi Arabias transport and logistics sector participated in the 101st annual meeting of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) held in Washington, DC, USA, last month (January 9 to 13).

Joined by a number of sector specialists, Dr Mansour Al-Turki, Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics for Planning and Information, headed the Saudi delegation participating in the TRB activities.

The meeting is one of the largest global events for specialists and experts in the transport industry. This year, it featured more than 400 workshops and seminars on the latest key developments in research, legislation, innovations and best practices in the transport sector, with participation of more than 150 specialised entities and 170 technical committees.

This participation comes as part of efforts to facilitate Saudi Arabias ambitious transport and logistics plan through interacting with key industry-focused international entities and companies and exploring possibilities to build strategic partnerships to enable the sector to deliver set strategic goals, not least that it had already started working towards the objectives of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics, a key pillar of the Saudi Vision 2030, said a statement by the Kingdoms Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services.

On the sidelines of the exhibition, the deputy minister held a virtual meeting with the Executive Director of the Office of International Transportation and Trade, part of the US Department of Transportation. The counterparts discussed the importance of strategic cooperation and partnership between the two sides, and explored sectors transformation in the Kingdom.

Additionally, the Saudi side introduced the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, the achievements in 2021 and the more focused efforts in 2022 on implementing the strategy. They also explored the volume of investment opportunities in the Saudi transport and logistics sector, specifically infrastructure projects and private sector participation in the implementation of the strategy, as well as increasing foreign investments and attracting investors.

Al-Turki also met with Neil Pedersen, Executive Director of Transportation Research Board, where he shared the objectives of the Saudi participation in TRBs meeting. He introduced the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics and discussed opportunities for cooperation with companies and research centers.

Besides, the Saudi delegation held a meeting with the World Bank Group (WBG) to discuss in detail means of cooperation between Saudi transport and logistics sector and the WBG across different areas. The meeting focused on the logistics industry and integration of modes of transport, in addition to reducing the sectors footprint and adopting modern modes of transportation. Dr Mansour also met with representatives of the US Chamber of Commerce, in the presence of many representatives of leading logistics companies, to explore investment opportunities and contribute to the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.

The end goal of such meetings is to benefit, improve, and develop legislations and enhance safety in the transport and logistics sector, in addition to supporting environmental protection efforts and minimise sectors footprint. Moreover, they target adoption of modern technologies and aim to hold specialist workshops and seminars across all sectors of the industry to further human resources development. Additionally, the meetings aim to explore opportunities to attract investments as well as leading global players to set up headquarters in the Kingdom, hence realizing the objectives of the National Strategy.

Noteworthy, the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics was launched by HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince, Deputy prime Minister and Chairman of the Higher Committee for Transport and Logistics, on June 29, 2021. It aims to establish Saudi Arabias position as a global logistics hub connecting three continents, upgrade all transportation means and services and promote logistics integration to support the Kingdoms overall development process. The strategy includes a package of major projects that enable economic and social goals, key pillars of Vision 2030 programs.TradeArabia News Service
FORTH WORTH, Texas, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The P. Micheal Schneider Law Firm, P.C., a family law and criminal defense firm , was recently named by the Fort Worth Business Press magazine as one of the Top 100 private companies in the Fort Worth Metroplex. The honorees of the Top 100 list are chosen annually based on nominations, public information and community recommendations.

"It's been a long but rewarding journey," said founding attorney, Micheal Schneider. "I'm humbled by this recognition and am proud of our team for getting us here."

Keller/Alliance, TX Divorce Lawyers Arlington, TX Divorce Lawyers

In addition to the firm's Top 100 recognition, several individual attorneys have recently received awards. This includes Fort Worth Magazine naming Alison Porterfield, Melissa Korene Swan, Jessica A. Phillips, Emily Lachance, Callie Dodson, Taryn Horton and Micheal Schneider as Top Attorneys in Fort Worth. Micheal Schneider was also voted Tops in Tarrant in the January 2022 issue of Society Life Magazine and a Texas Super Lawyer by Texas Monthly magazine for the 8th year in a row.

These accolades stem from the firm's strong record of results and reputation in the community. Attorneys at the firm routinely receive referrals from their peers and garner high praise from their clients. Schneider Law Firm currently has 4.6 stars on Facebook , 4.5 on Google and 4.5 on Lawyers.com.

"The key to growing and operating a leading law firm is simple: Hire only the best employees. The fact that we have attracted and retained the top talent in the area is the thing I am most proud of."

With the firm's office expansions into the Arlington/Mansfield and Keller/Alliance communities, clients now have better access to their attorneys without having to drive into downtown Fort Worth. Their downtown office is also just a short walk from the Tarrant County courthouse, making it convenient for clients on trial days.

Schneider Law Firm's family law services include divorce, custody and support issues. In criminal law, the firm addresses matters ranging from domestic violence and DWIs to juvenile crimes and federal crimes.

About Company



Schneider Law Firm, P.C., is a client-driven family law and criminal defense firm with offices in Fort Worth, Arlington and the Alliance/Keller community in Texas. They offer free consultations Monday through Friday. Visit www.teamslf.com for more details.

For more information, contact:

P. Micheal Schneider

P. Micheal Schneider Law Firm, PC

400 East Weatherford Street, Suite 106

Fort Worth, TX 76102

(817) 755-1852

SOURCE P. Micheal Schneider
The BAFTA nominations, which were announced in a YouTube broadcast, are often seen as a bellwether for the Oscars, because of an overlap between the voting constituencies for both awards.

Dune secured 11 BAFTA nominations, the most overall, although many are in technical categories like costume and production design. The Power of the Dog secured eight nominations, the second highest, with three of those in the acting categories.

This years list also includes some acting nominees that may not be to be on the Oscars radar. The nominees for best actor, for instance, include Stephen Graham for Boiling Point, a British movie set behind the scenes in a restaurant, and Adeel Akhtar for the British romance Ali & Ava, as well as big names like Will Smith (King Richard), Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog), Leonardo DiCaprio (Don't Look Up) and Mahershala Ali (Swan Song).

The nominees for best actress similarly include the British actress Joanna Scanlan for her role in After Love, about a white Muslim convert who uncovers her husbands secret past, as well as Lady Gaga (House of Gucci), Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza), Renate Reinsve (The Worst Person in the World) and Tessa Thompson (Passing).
New Delhi, Feb 3 : While the active caseload has reported a marginal decline in India, the country is seeing a surge in deaths due to Covid-19.

A week back on January 26, India reported 2,85,914 fresh cases and 665 deaths in 24 hours. Since then, there has been a constant dip in new infections. However, the number of fatalities has risen steadily.

On February 3, the country saw 1,72,433 infections and 1,008 deaths in a span of 24 hours.

"Deaths lags about 2-3 weeks behind cases. It takes that much time for people to be severely ill, be hospitalised and managed there till they succumb to the disease," Shahid Jameel, Visiting Professor, Ashoka University, told IANS.

India is currently going through its third Covid wave triggered mostly by the highly contagious Omicron variant.

Globally, Omicron accounts for about 70 per cent infections at this time, with Delta accounting for about 30 per cent.

The variant, touted as majorly causing mild illness, had initially led to a spike in Covid case numbers, but the number of Omicron cases have been much less in India.

"The third wave in India is also mostly driven by Omicron. The Omicron figures are much less than daily positive cases because the former is determined only after genomic sequencing, whereas the latter is based on PCR and rapid tests," said Jameel, who is also Senior Research Fellow at Green Templeton College, Oxford University.

"Not all positive cases are sequenced to determine the variant virus," he added.

India is expected to see a peak in the wave in early to mid-February.

"The peak will differ in different states and should eventually start to flatten by the end of March," Dr. Kiran G. Kulirankal, from Division of Infectious Diseases, at Amrita Hospital, Kochi, told IANS.

However, it is too early to predict the end of Covid, he noted.

Kulirankal contended that although initial data shows Omicron variant to be highly transmissible but less severe than Delta, this is not the case while considering high risk groups.

It comprises the elderly, immunocompromised, patients with chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, uncontrolled diabetes, those on immunosuppressive medications and patients with malignancy.

"The weakened immune system fails to prevent the progression of the disease to its severe form leading to increased morbidity and mortality," Kulirankal said.

He advised protecting the high-risk group as well as the general population with vaccinations and following proper Covid protocols such as hand washing, avoiding unnecessary travels, avoiding public gathering, and maintaining physical distancing.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
As part of The Red & Blacks health news coverage, we are publishing weekly reports on news relating to COVID-19 and its recent statistics.

Major updates

On Jan. 18, the federal government launched a website allowing people to sign up for free at-home COVID-19 test kits. People are able to order a maximum of four tests per household directly to their homes. People can order their COVID-19 test kits at COVIDtests.gov.

According to NBC News, Moderna reported Wednesday that it has started treating patients in a clinical study assessing its omicron-specific COVID-19 vaccination booster.

According to The Washington Post, the vaccine's producers, Pfizer and BioNTech, submitted a request for emergency-use authorization for a vaccination for children aged 6 months to 5 years old to the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday, making it the first immunization accessible for that age range.

Starting Jan. 31, Mako Medical's COVID-19 drive-through testing center, in collaboration with the Northeast Health District and the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, reopened at 3500 Atlanta Highway with Mitchell Bridge Road as the entry, according to a Thursday press release by the Northeast Health District.

COVID-19 cases decreased significantly at the University of Georgia compared to last week, according to the universitys reporting system. UGA reported 363 new cases during the week of Jan. 24-30  566 fewer cases than last week.

The surveillance testing positivity rate decreased during the week of Jan. 24-28 to 7.47% compared to 13.61% the previous week.

The university conducted 1,245 surveillance tests during the week of Jan. 24-28 compared to the 1,830 tests the previous week. Fewer tests performed may also indicate fewer positive cases reported.

Because students may have tested positive off-campus and not reported it, the actual number of COVID-19 cases in the UGA community may be higher.

Due to fewer people wearing masks, respiratory illnesses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus have been spreading across the nation.

All Georgia counties, including Athens Clarke-County, are classified as high transmission geographical areas for COVID-19, according to the CDC.

According to the Georgia Geospatial Information Office, Georgias hospitals have about 11% of their intensive care unit beds left for sick patients. The percentage of intensive care unit beds left in Region E  which includes ACC and several surrounding counties  is about 4%.

From Jan. 23-29, about all of the COVID-19 cases in the southeastern U.S. were omicron cases, according to the CDC.

The majority of people hospitalized with COVID-19 are unvaccinated.

Data breakdown: University of Georgia

There were 76 positive tests reported at the University Health Center. There were 93 positive tests reported through UGA surveillance testing, 36 positive tests from UGA community members reporting from testing sites in Athens and 158 positive tests from UGA community members reporting from other testing sites.

About 109 of the positive tests belonged to employees and 254 belonged to students.

Students that test positive for COVID-19 off-campus are required to report it through DawgCheck, UGAs monitoring tool.

For the week of Jan. 24-28, the UHC administered 152 vaccines. Cumulatively, the UHC has administered 32,749 vaccines.

Students and faculty may book a vaccine appointment through the UHC Vaccine Portal or get vaccinated at any University System of Georgia school. Students may also get tested for COVID-19 at the UHC with walk-in appointments. Appointments can be scheduled here. Due to vaccination status being verified on-site, individuals should bring their original vaccine card to the appointment.

Data breakdown: Athens-Clarke County

From Jan. 28-Feb. 2, the county reported 555 new confirmed cases, compared to 1,050 cases from Jan. 22-27, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. The countys seven-day average positivity rate was 27.4%. The World Health Organization recommends communities maintain a positivity rate below 5%.

This week, ACC reported three confirmed COVID-19 deaths.

According to the Georgia Geospatial Information Office, the number of current hospitalizations in Region E  which includes ACC and several surrounding counties  was 228 as of Feb. 2.

According to the Georgia DPH, about 48% of the county is fully vaccinated.

Data breakdown: Georgia

Statewide, the weekly rate of new confirmed COVID-19 cases decreased.

According to the DPH, Georgia reported 57,548 confirmed COVID-19 cases between Jan. 28-Feb. 2. This is a decrease of about 44,863 from the 102,411 cases between Jan. 22-27. The states seven-day average positivity rate on Feb. 2 was 23.4%.

The number of confirmed deaths in the state increased. Georgia recorded 389 confirmed COVID-19 deaths between Jan. 28-Feb. 2, compared to the 344 between Jan. 22-27.

On Feb. 2, about 4,316 individuals were hospitalized due to COVID-19 compared to the 5,066 on Jan. 26.

According to the DPH, approximately 5.7 million Georgians have been fully vaccinated, or about 54% of the state. In comparison, the U.S. has a current full vaccination rate of 64%. Approximately 6.5 million Georgians, or 62% of the state, have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

The CDC has also released guidelines advising vaccinated individuals to still wear masks when in public, indoor settings.
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Echo360, the global leading video-based learning engagement platform, announced over $50,000 in 2021 education technology grants with more planned in 2022, reflecting the global learning impact of the enterprise.

The 2021 EMEA Academic Champions grants support research projects from university faculty in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) using Echo360 to elevate their teaching practices and improve student outcomes. Awards of up to $2500 were granted to the following recipients:

Professor Simon Lancaster  University of East Anglia , Norwich, UK

 University of , Dr. Keren Bielby-Clarke  University of Bradford , Bradford, UK

 University of , Professor Andrea Townsend-Nicholson and Professor John Mitchell , University College London, London, UK

, University College London, Nidia Guadalupe Flores , Dr. Maria Oskarsdottir, Dr. Anna Sigridur Islind and John Baird , University of Reykjavik , Reykjavik, Iceland

, University of , Sandra Partington , City University of London , London, UK

"We had a strong line-up of project ideas from a roster of very dedicated educators committed to elevating the learning experience through video," said Matthew Ravenhill, Director of Academic Partnerships for Echo360's EMEA region. "It was difficult to whittle down the list, but we're excited to see what these Academic Champions will learn and share about effective video learning applications."

The 2021 Learning Engagement Grants awarded nine finalists with interactive software grants valued at up to $5,000 each. Grant recipients represented higher education, K12, and corporate markets, and will be implementing projects throughout 2022:

Brenda Batts - Tennessee State University , Nashville, TN

, Ian Klingler - Loveland City Schools, Loveland, OH

City Schools, Michelle DiPasquale - University of Wyoming , Laramie, WY

, Donna Berger - New York Medical College , Hartsdale, NY

, Krystal Evensen - Trinidad School District, Trinidad, CO

School District, Dr Chamith Wijenayake - School of ITEE, University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia

School of ITEE, , Devon Hall - Janas Cosmetology Academy, Clementon, NJ

Janas Cosmetology Academy, Karen Brown - The Longleaf Alliance, Andalusia, AL

The Longleaf Alliance, Kendall Jones - Pennsylvania Counseling Services, Inc., Lebanon, PA

"We are excited to support innovative, engaged learning opportunities in a variety of classroom and training environments," stated John Wilson, Education Director at Echo360. "It is inspiring to see how creative the award winners were in focusing on improved learner outcomes."

2022 Echo360 grants advancing learning engagement research and innovation will be announced later this month, advancing the company's "e3" formula of learning engagement. "These kinds of impact and incubation grants, inspired and led by our instructional partners on the front lines of learning, are integral to our mission of redefining learning engagement around the world," said Murad Velani, Echo360 President and Chief Executive Officer. "Focusing our future grantmaking in areas of Equity, Evidence, and Engagement will only accelerate the impact we can all make together."

About Echo360

Echo360 believes that improved outcomes start with great moments in the classroom. Developed by educators, Echo360 helps instructors record and extend those moments to improve learner engagement through accessible, engaging video-based learning, reaching more than two million learners at approximately 1,200 schools and organizations across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. www.echo360.com

Media Contact:

Jeff Peterson

6128590488

[email protected]

SOURCE Echo360
ARLINGTON  An Arlington County judge on Wednesday promised a prompt, but not immediate ruling on whether Gov. Glenn Youngkin can prevent seven Virginia school divisions, including Richmonds, from requiring all students to wear face masks to prevent spread of COVID-19 and protect public health.

Circuit Court Judge Louise DiMatteo made clear that her ruling will rest less on what is the right policy than on who has the power to decide  the governor, acting through executive order under emergency powers, or school boards, empowered by the state constitution and state law.

It is a question of who has authority, DiMatteo said after a two-hour hearing here on whether to grant a request by the school boards for an injunction to temporarily block the executive order that Youngkin signed on Jan. 15 shortly after he took office as governor.

The suit by the school boards is one of three challenging the governors order to let parents opt their children out of school mask mandates. A group of Chesapeake parents challenged the order in the state Supreme Court and a group of parents of students with disabilities filed a lawsuit Tuesday in federal court. The Associated Press reported that three parents who support the governors position filed suit against the Loudoun County School Board, which maintained its school mask mandate after Youngkins executive order.

Richmond and six other school boards  for Alexandria, Falls Church, Hampton and the counties of Fairfax, Prince William and Arlington  say they have authority under the state constitution, as well as under a law Gov. Ralph Northam signed last year to require public schools to provide in-person instruction while following federal COVID-19 guidelines to the maximum extent practicable.

Its their job, said John Cafferky, an attorney for the Alexandria School Board and lead lawyer in the lawsuit. Its their role to make those decisions, not the governor.

But an attorney for Youngkin said the governors emergency powers are vast and broad, allowing him to act by executive order to protect the constitutional rights of students and their parents to choose whether to wear face masks in school.

The public interest favors parental constitutional rights, Deputy Attorney General Steven Popps said.

Popps, a former McGuireWoods lawyer whom Attorney General Jason Miyares appointed last month, argued executive orders Northam issued in the first 22 months of the COVID-19 pandemic were far more draconian than Executive Order 2, which Youngkin signed less than two hours after his inauguration.

It should not matter whose name is on the executive order, he said.

Popps did not directly address the school boards argument that they have authority under the constitution, which states that supervision of schools in each school division shall be vested in a school board.

Whatever else supervision includes, surely it includes the safety and welfare of students, Cafferky said.

The school boards also argued that Senate Bill 1303, which the General Assembly adopted last year to require in-person instruction in public schools that had been closed or restricted for much of the pandemic, also required them to follow the public health guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including universal requirement of face masks in schools.

But DiMatteo voiced skepticism over whether the CDC guidelines require school boards to mandate use of face masks by all students, or simply to consider universal use of masks among the potential measures for safely operating schools.

The judge noted that not all of Virginias school divisions had imposed a universal face mask requirement under the CDC guidelines.

Its not a mandate is the bottom line, isnt it? she asked Cafferky, noting that schools have options for safely accommodating students who choose not to wear masks.

Popps said it is the governors prerogative to choose whats practicable for protecting the health of students and teachers while keeping schools open for instruction and protecting parental rights.

The state law does not impose a universal mask mandate any more than it imposes a universal [COVID-19] vaccine mandate, he said.

But while Popps said Virginia grants the governor exceptionally broad powers under its emergency services law, the school boards argued that Youngkins executive order had nothing to do with protecting health.

Cafferky said the governor had based the use of his emergency powers not on a public safety rationale, but instead on a philosophy of personal and parental choice.

Theres no question that the personal choice comes at the expense of school-wide protection, he argued.

The executive order isnt a strategy of containing COVID-19, Cafferky said. In fact, its the opposite of that.

DiMatteo questioned both attorneys closely about the basis and implications of their legal arguments, but cautioned against assuming from her questions how she will rule.

She acknowledged the significant concerns raised in the case and that people are looking for an answer.

I wont take long to decide it, the judge said, but I will take it under a period of advisement.
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Richard David Kann (RDK) Melanoma Foundation is partnering with Astreea to offer fans free sunscreen at Citizens Bank Ballpark, home of the Philadelphia Phillies. 12 sunscreen-filled Astreea pedal dispensers have been placed in high-traffic locations throughout the stadium.

There is nothing like catching a game on a beautiful day, but many underestimate the danger of sun exposure. 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer in their lives, and just one blistering sunburn before the age of 18 more than doubles the chances of developing skin cancer.

Custom-themed Astreea sunscreen dispensers are available for purchase. Each one comes with a Richard David Kann Melanoma Foundation fabric sleeve and a bottle of SPF 50 sunscreen. 15% of purchases go directly to the foundation.

The RDK Melanoma Foundation's mission is to save lives through education on the prevention and early detection of skin cancer, specifically Melanoma. Working with both Astreea and the Phillies, the Foundation is providing thousands of fans with access to SPF 50 sunscreen along with information on sun-safe behavior via a QR code featured on each Astreea dispenser.

"We want everybody in the Stadium to be covered with sunscreen during games," said Mike Schmidt, MLB Hall of Famer and 1980 World Series Champion. "The Phillies, myself, and the Richard David Kann Melanoma Foundation want to hit a home run with this project!"

Astreea dispensers are durable, hygienic, and weatherproof, making them perfect for use at Citizens Bank Ballpark. Each dispenser features a full-color design plus an integrated sign to attract attention and promote usage. And with its high-capacity reservoir and mechanical operation, staff members will find these dispensers incredibly easy to maintain.

"The RDK Foundation has been working locally and nationally for over 26 years, and we are ecstatic to continue providing communities with sun protection and education with our new partner, Astreea," said RDK founder, Debbie Schwarzberg. "These new eco-friendly sunscreen dispensers are the future of the Foundation, and we look forward to working with Astreea to continue fulfilling our mission!"

Astreea sunscreen dispensers are available at https://rdk.shopastreea.com. 15% of all purchases from this site go directly to the RDK foundation. This partnership was developed in conjunction with The Erlick Group, a leading New York-based sponsorship agency.

http://www.erlickgroup.com

About Astreea

Astreea creates innovative products and services that solve common challenges related to sunscreen and hand sanitizing programs. The company started by building the world's most popular pedal dispenser line, with sizes ranging from Small to XXL. Engineered by an aerospace manufacturer, Astreea's hand sanitizer dispensers are truly unique, as they are mechanically operated and require no assembly, batteries, or maintenance. In addition, every dispenser is covered by a lifetime warranty. Learn more at: https://shopastreea.com/

About the RDK Melanoma Foundation

The RDK Melanoma Foundation is focused on three chief initiatives. The first is growing the Students Against Melanoma (SAM Club) network of college, high school, and middle school students around the country, encouraging them to educate their peers and families on the importance of sun safety. RDK is also in the process of developing a 45-minute long scripted, interactive, and fun educational experience that will be presented once a year to elementary and middle schools in and around Palm Beach County, Florida. Lastly, the Foundation is excited to continue its dispenser initiative with Astreea to strategically place as many sunscreen dispensers as possible anywhere people plan on being outdoors for an extended period. Learn more at: https://melanomafoundation.com/

Contact:

Jenique Crawley

Richard David Kann Melanoma Foundation

[email protected]

561-655-9655

SOURCE Richard David Kann Melanoma Foundation
Attention, Segbe under construction day and night !

Announced for several weeks already, the work of the reconstruction of the Adidogome-Segbe road has started with pomp.

According to the official website of the Togolese Republic, announced a few weeks ago, the reconstruction works of the Adidogome-Segbe road (Gulf 7) have actually started. The 10 km long site is being carried out by the West African construction giant, Ebomaf, which already operates on the Lome-Kpalime road. In the field, significant resources have been deployed and the work is taking place day and night. Clearing of the right-of-way, construction of gutters, earthworks, everything is planned to complete the work earlier than expected, indicates the company which has drawn up several detour routes for users. Moreover, she specifies, a new front has been opened at the Ghana border (where the road ends), in order to speed up the work.

In the end, we can only hope for an acceleration of these works, which are part of the governments emergency public works, so that they can have a happy ending to the great happiness of the populations who have suffered only too much from the advanced deterioration of this road which nevertheless connects to neighboring Ghana.

It should be noted that, in addition to the road under construction, there are plans to build a 5-hectare water retention basin to accommodate runoff water after the rains.

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03.02.2022 LISTEN

The former Member of Parliament for the Zebilla Constituency and private legal practitioner, Hon. John Ndebugri Akparibo has registered his unhappiness with President Akufo-Addo's attitude towards him.

His outburst further suggests that since Akufo-Addo became President, finding the opportunity to consult with an old pal on subjects relating to national development has become very difficult and seemingly impossible.

The former Zebilla lawmaker claims that whenever he makes a call to the President on phone only women answer the calls telling him that he (the president) is unable to speak with him.

Mr Ndebugri finds this disrespectful and vows not to call him again since he's now convinced that Akufo-Addo does not regard him as an old buddy again.

Speaking on a Bolgatanga-based A1 radio, he did, however, point out that while calls to former President John Mahama and Agyekum Kufuor are answered directly by them, the situation with Akufo-Addo is different.

I will say he is my former friend because I havent met him for several years now so I dont know whether he even considers me as his friend. I take the phone and I call President Kufuor, he answers but not this man (Akufo-Addo). His phone is with some ladies who will not even treat you with some respect. If you call President Kufuor, it goes to him directly, if you call Mahama it goes to him directly but not this man. If you call him, some ladies will pick up and tell you he isnt around. And I dont call people who dont pick my calls promptly.

Listen to audio below:
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Congress on Thursday attacked the Narendra Modi government on its economic record, saying that it had not created even a single Public Sector Unit (PSU) but it has privatised 23 of them.

Participating in the debate in the Rajya Sabha on the Motion of Thanks on the President' Address, Congress member Ripun Bora said: " (Prime Minister) Rajiv Gandhi created 16 PSUs, no privatisation, (Prime Minister Atal Bihari) Vajpayee created 17 PSUs, (Prime Minister) Manmohan Singh created 23 PSUS, only three privatised, but the Modi government did not create a single PSU and he privatised 23 PSUs so far." Noting that the economy was badly devastated by the pandemic, he said that nearly 84 crore people's income has come down drastically during it but the President's address did not mention anything about it. Under the UPA government, 27 crore people were pulled out of poverty, he added.

Claiming that around five crore more people have been pushed below poverty line recently, he said the President's speech did not mention a single word on how to tackle price rise which has led to individual consumption drastically declining.

Bora also brought up the issue of the Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) and the killings of civilians in Nagaland's Mon killings. "Normally the military is used against foreign aggression, but our military has killed our own people." He also said that Naga peace talks have also been derailed.

Congress member Digvijaya Singh said that after 'Suit Boot Sarkaar', came, the direct tax decreased from 55.39 per cent to 46.43 per cent while the indirect tax increased from 44.61 per cent to 53.57 per cent, indicating that the government is taxing the rich less and the poor more.

"In this Budget, the Modi government has reduced subsidies by 27 per cent, why do not you increase taxation on the super-rich?" he asked, terming the government of "being against the poor and the farmers of this country".

"This government is antipoor and anti-farmer. The first ordinance they brought was the Land Acquisition Act. "They ignore the strength and unity of farmers," he said.

Referring to the Dharma Sansad which was held at Haridwar recently, Digvijaya Singh said that calls were given for genocide and no one from the government said anything about this hate speech. "During Amrit Mahotsav, you have never mentioned those who took part in the freedom struggle. You may not like Congress leaders like Nehru, Patel, but you could have mentioned Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar Azad," he added.

Taking a dig at the treasury benches, Singh also said that when Article 370 was included in the Constitution, Syama Prasad Mookerjee was part of the Cabinet, @but you mislead that he opposed it". "In Bhima Koregaon case, it was alleged that there was a conspiracy to kill PM Modi, but it has been more than three years and no chargesheet has been filed.

TRS MP K. Keshava Rao, quoting a media report, says there was an increase in hate speech and there is an urgent need to bring a special law to deal with the same.

He also alleged that the southern states were being ignored and the distribution of funds to states by the BJP-led government fails to provide any incentive.
DALLAS, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS), the world's leading organization for training and certification in e-discovery and part of The BARBRI Group of legal education companies, has launched a new eDiscovery Advanced Certificate (eDAdv) course for legal professionals.

The Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS) has launched a new eDiscovery Advanced Certificate (eDAdv) course for legal professionals.

The eDAdv course is for lawyers, paralegals, and litigation support, legal operations and other legal support personnel at law firms, in corporate legal departments, the government, software and service providers, and in academia. The course is for learners at any level and is ideally suited for team and corporate training environments.

The new 11-module, online and self-paced course provides five hours of in-depth exploration of the e-discovery lifecycle, from information governance, preservation and collection, to the latest techniques in technology assisted review and international discovery and ethics. It provides a pathway to career enhancement, organizational success and stakeholder and client confidence in a field that demands accuracy and expertise and an elevated understanding of e-discovery best practices and processes.

"We are super-excited to launch our new eDiscovery Advanced Certificate course to build on our foundational programs in e-discovery," says ACEDS president Mike Quartararo. "This program is a contemporary offering on standardized processes and advanced concepts in e-discovery for anyone interested in learning how to manage best practices and deliver better outcomes for stakeholders."

"Whether you are preparing for our flagship CEDS Certification exam or simply want to learn more about e-discovery, this program delivers on the content legal professionals need for success in their careers," he adds.

Upon completion of the course, participants will achieve their eDiscovery Advanced Certificate in the form of a certificate of learning and an optional digital badge. A one-year ACEDS membershiop is also included with the course.

To learn more,visit: https://aceds.org/ediscovery-advanced-certificate/

About ACEDS

The Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS), part of leading legal education provider The BARBRI Group , is the world's leading organization for training and certification in e-discovery, information governance, and related disciplines. ACEDS provides training to corporate legal departments, law firms, the government, service providers and institutions of higher learning. Our flagship CEDS certification is recognized around the world and used to verify skills and competence in electronic discovery for organizations and individuals through training, certification and continuing education. The CEDS credential is held by practitioners at the largest Fortune 500 companies, Am Law 200 firms and government agencies. ACEDS has 28 chapters in most major US cities, Canada, the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, South Africa, and Australia. Our goal is to help professionals and organizations reduce the costs and risks associated with e-discovery while helping to improve and verify their skills and advance their careers and overall technology competence in e-discovery and related fields.

http://www.aceds.org/

Contact:

Katie Saylor

913.219.4444

[email protected]

SOURCE The Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS)
New Delhi, Feb 3: Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi has claimed that his income during the five years of Congress rule in the state has declined in comparison to his earnings before 2017, in an affidavit on his assets and liabilities filed with the Election Commission for the February 20 polls.

Channi, who is contesting from Chamkaur Sahib and Bhadaur seats has declared assets worth Rs 9.44 crore with an annual income of Rs 27.8 lakh. But in the affidavit filed for the 2017 elections, his annual income in 2015-16 was stated at Rs 1.46 crore which is more than five times higher than his income in 2020-21. His wife Dr. Kamaljit Kaur earned Rs 26 lakhs during the same period. Channi has declared Rs 1.5 lakh cash in hand and his wife has Rs 50000 cash in hand.

Sukhbir Badal of the Shiromani Akali Dal contesting from Jalalabad has declared assets worth Rs 122.77 crore including Rs. 71.56 crores owned by his wife Harsimrat Kaur Badal, former Union Minister. In 2020-21 Sukhbir earned Rs 2 crore while his agricultural income was Rs.8.6 lakh. His bank liability is Rs 37.62 crore in the form of a loan besides a loan of Rs 21 crore taken by his wife.

Shiromani Akali Dal supremo Parkash Singh Badal contesting from Lambi has declared assets worth Rs. 15.11 crore. His income in 2020-21 was Rs. 10 lakh besides agricultural income of Rs 40 lakh. Cash in hand is Rs 2.49 lakh. There is a loan liability on Badal senior amounting to Rs. 2.74 lakh.

Captain Amarinder Singh who has floated his own outfit the Punjab Lok Congress is contesting from Patiala (Urban). His declared assets are worth Rs 68.73 crore out of which Rs 10.42 crore are moveable. In 2017 his declared assets were worth Rs.86.33 crore including that of his wife Preneet Kaur which is less by Rs 17.6 crore. In 2020-21 his total income was Rs 40 lakh his wife earned Rs 50 lakh. Cash in hand declared by Captain is Rs 50,000 while his wife has Rs 1 lakh.

PPCC president Navjot Singh Sidhu contesting from Amritsar (East) has assets worth Rs. 44.63 crore including Rs 1.9 crore moveable. He inherited assets worth Rs 37 crore. Sidhu's total income in 2020-21 was Rs 22 lakh and that of his wife was Rs 26 lakh.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president Bhagwant Mann contesting from Dhuri has declared assets of Rs 1.97 crore. In 2020-21 he earned Rs 18 lakh. Cash in hand is Rs 1.1 lakh.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
The David City John Deere dealership will be expanding.

John Deere dealership AKRS Equipment Solutions has 27 locations throughout the Midwest, nearly all of which are in Nebraska, including one already situated in David City along Highway 15 on the north end of town. On Jan. 25, AKRS announced its plan to build a new, 40,000 square foot AKRS facility in David City.

"Construction will begin in the spring of 2022, with expected completion in the summer of 2023," said a Jan. 25 press release from AKRS.

AKRS Sales and Marketing Vice President Kent Kirchhoff told the Banner-Press the business has outgrown its current space.

"There are some nice existing facilities and some that are, obviously, why we're not staying there -- not enough capacity for our size of a business," Kirchhoff said. "...It is a great community for us. We've been there forever, there's always been a John Deere dealership there. We have an awesome team and they really just required...an upgrade. More space, with the latest technology and the size of the equipment."

There's no room to expand in its current location at 1707 N. Fourth St., so the plan is to build a new facility somewhere north of town, Kirchhoff said.

There is residential housing located a couple of blocks from the current AKRS facility. Until AKRS announces a specific location, it's unclear how close the new facility will be to an area -- also on the north end of town -- that the city is eyeing for housing development.

Meanwhile, Kirchhoff said AKRS is still determining what it will do with the existing location.

"It will likely be utilized for something else, but we're a long ways away from moving in so there won't be any decisions on that until probably until the middle of 2023," Kirchhoff said.

Plans for the new, state-of-the-art facility will follow AKRS' signature design, which Kirchhoff said was carefully developed with efficiency and capacity in mind. The David City location is just the first to get the signature design treatment. Kirchoff said there will be announcements about other locations in the future.

"David City is where we're starting. ... It's a location where we have an outstanding customer base, we have great technicians and that seemed to be the highest priority for us, in that location," Kirchhoff said.

David City's water, sewer and road infrastructure will also need to grow to support the AKRS expansion. At a Jan. 26 David City Council meeting, David City Water Supervisor Aaron Gustin said the city needs to get the balling rolling if they are going to keep pace with the AKRS construction timeline.

"We are next to a highway -- this is going to be a permitted project," Gustin said. "...There will engineering time and costs, permitting time and costs and then installing all of that according to those specs."
National Signing Day typically signifies a few things: high school athletes across the country choosing their school of choice, friends and family watching the development of their loved one come full circle, and of course, the University of West Florida reloading on talent.

This year, the Argos will be bringing aboard their usual combination of transfers and traditional high school signees, but three of them are local athletes. Smack dab in the middle of the underrecruited Panhandle, UWF is taking advantage of its nearby talent.

"We're going to start with the '850' and try to recruit that as best we can," Argos head coach Pete Shinnick said. "I think the last three years we've had more Florida athletes than any other football playing institution out there, and so, we want to continue to get more and more local guys as well."

Raiders head football coach Jay Walls, left, congratulates Devin Wright on signing his letter of intent to attend the University of West Florida during a National Signing Day ceremony at Navarre High School in Navarre on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022.

Sticking around to play their college ball with West Florida are Pensacola Catholic's Brayden Bruster (defensive linemen), Navarre's Devin Wright (linebacker) and Pine Forest's Gavin Grice (running back).

Bruster, a 6-foot-1, 285-pound defensive linemen, missed the majority of his senior season with a torn labrum suffered during the previous weightlifting season. Despite that, UWF's interest never wavered.

Pensacola Catholic High School senior Brayden Bruster commits to play football at the University of West Florida on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022.

They remained in contact through it all, and got to evaluate him in the area's post-season all-star game. With their loyalty in his recruiting process, the Catholic standout felt that joining the Argos was the only right move.

"After I had surgery, nobody would respond anymore," Bruster said. "So pretty much when UWF reached out to me, I said I'm going to stick with this and go with it."

He'll be joining West Florida after a two-year, 11-game varsity career with the Crusaders. During that span, the future Argo compiled 36 solo tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 29 assists, four sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one interception.

Story continues

As for Wright, he'll arrive on campus a bit more seasoned. The 6-1 linebacker has been a three-year varsity starter for the Raiders, accumulating over 250 tackles. He's received invites to numerous camps and combines, garnered all-area nominations from every local media outlet and has a Division I wide receiver for a brother.

Teammates congratulate Devin Wright, center, after he signed his letter of intent to attend the University of West Florida during a National Signing Day ceremony at Navarre High School in Navarre on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022.

Wright's brother, Dante, who is also a Navarre alum, was the second-leading receiver for the Colorado State Rams this past season. While joining his sibling at CSU was a route that Devin explored, a game day visit to UWF got him hooked.

"The atmosphere was really high and the players and the coaches were all very welcoming," Wright said. "When I was at the visit, I could really picture myself playing for UWF  I talked to my parents and they said they really liked it as well so that's when I made the decision."

With the Argos unique game day experience, they are able to sell a lot of prospective players and their families. Playing your home games on a Minor League Baseball field with the ocean as a backdrop isn't replicated anywhere else.

In regards to Grice, the Eagles No. 3 running back, he'll be joining the squad with a preferred walk-on designation. But don't overlook him, as the 6-1 tailback will come with championship pedigree.

"It was great to help my team make it to the state title game," Grice said. "Theres a lot of 6A teams in the state of Florida. It sucks not to be No. 1, but youre not a failure if you are No. 2."

During his senior season, the Eagles went on to appear in the Class 6A title game in Fort Lauderdale. He produced 266 rushing yards and three touchdowns playing behind three different 900+ yard rushers.

As a small fish in a big pond full of running backs at Pine Forest, Grice is no stranger to finding ways to be a good teammate aside from on-field production.

Gavin Grice (22) signs his letter of intent to attend the University of West Florida during a National Signing Day ceremony at Pine Forest High School in Pensacola on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022.

"I think my determination will help and some leadership amongst probably the younger people," Grice said. "Well go on down the road and hopefully just bring something to the table."

Shinnick was unable to comment on the addition of Grice due to NCAA signing regulations.

Florida recruiting: State of Florida Recruiting H.Q. National Signing Day Podcast

FSU signings: Florida State football after Signing Day: Who is the Seminoles' top recruit for 2022?

Gators signings: Florida Gators football adds eight players on National Signing Day to boost Billy Napier's first class

Coaches Corner

Brayden Bruster

The impact that this Crusader was able to provide in a small sample size left the Argos coaching staff wondering what more he could bring to the table. Ultimately deciding that the answer was 'a lot,' Shinnick and staff were thrilled to have him officially sign.

"We like what we saw and think his best football is in front of him," Shinnick said. "Excited that he got healthy and was able to come back and we were able to see him later in the season."

At the same token, the Argos head coach mentioned how difficult the transition from facing high school linemen to Division II linemen generally is. Especially in the competitive Gulf South Conference.

"I think O-Line, D-Line are the hardest spots to jump right in because the size and the strength of the guys you are going against, it's a little different across the board," Shinnick said. "He got to see a couple of those throughout the course of his high school career, but nothing like the consistency that he'll see (here)."

But Bruster's high school head coach, Matt Adams, thinks he's ready.

With his versatility and pure strength, he could be a matchup nightmare shifting around to different spots on the Argos' three-man defensive front.

"He can play multiple positions and he's probably one of the strongest kids in the Panhandle, so he's coming in ready to go," Adams said. "From a mental aspect and physically, he's ready."

Devin Wright

Simply put, Wright makes things happen when he is on the field. In his final prep season, the linebacker averaged 13.2 tackles per game, but also made his mark elsewhere.

He returned a few kickoffs, converted a handful of extra points and scored on a two-point conversion. Having the ability to assist in all of these different areas represents his strong football IQ.

"We noticed early on as a young player that he really picks up on concepts and learns what to do really fast," Raiders head coach Jay Walls said. "I think that's what he'll do there so he'll be able to contribute pretty quick just because of his football knowledge  once you go over it with him, he's got it."

Pair that with Shinnick's love for the linebacker's physical abilities, and Wright becomes a coach's dream.

"We just love his athleticism and how he moves around, really sideline to sideline, flying to the ball," Shinnick said. "Creating problems on the offensive side of the ball by how he's playing defensively  really pleased that he wants to continue his career here at UWF."

With West Florida losing three stud linebackers in Shea Campbell, Stephon Williams and Trent Archie, there could be an opening waiting for Wright.

Gavin Grice

Grice may have a hard time finding action with the emergence of Argos running back Shomari Mason and the transfer addition of former Florida State running back Deonte Sheffield. But he's just happy to have this opportunity.

Coming off an ACL injury suffered in his junior season, the running back was forced to shake off the rust during his final high school season. Following the team's state title run, Grice had to get surgery on that same knee again. So as he rehabs, he's feeling fortunate he's showed enough to get to this point.

Pine Forest assistant coach Ryan Vandervort thinks he earned it through his dedication to the team.

"He's a hard worker, he does everything he's supposed to do, he's where he's supposed to be, he's a team player," Vandervort said. "He's going to give great effort. When it's his turn on the field he's going to give you everything he has, when he's on the sideline or at practice, he's going to be cheering on his teammates and pushing them to get better and better every day. He's a competitor."

As he tries to find his way through injury and a loaded backfield, being home in Pensacola amongst family and friends will offer him some major support.

Lucas Semb can be reached at Lsemb@pensacol.gannett.com or 850-281-7414. Follow him on Twitter at @Lucas_Semb for stories and various Pensacola area score updates.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Local players stay home to play for former national champion Argos
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said the Bucharest Nine countries are well aware of what "spheres of influence" are, as they had been under Soviet occupation in the past.

That's according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports.

Kuleba took part in a NATO ministerial meeting of the Bucharest Nine at the invitation of his Romanian counterpart Bogdan Aurescu. This was the first participation of the Ukrainian foreign minister in events of this format, the statement said.

Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian participated in the meeting as a special guest.

Kuleba informed the participants in detail about a build-up of Russian troops near the state border and in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

All ministers agreed that Russia's aggressive actions pose a threat to the security not only of Ukraine but also of other Central European countries and the Euro-Atlantic area in general.

"The countries of the Bucharest Nine all know too well what 'spheres of influence' are as they have been under Soviet occupation in the past. Today, it is in our common interest to do our utmost to prevent Russia from regaining its sphere of influence in modern Europe. Our unity and firmness of positions are able to protect security in Europe," Kuleba said.

He said he was convinced that it is time for the Euro-Atlantic community to seize the initiative in discussions on European security. It is unacceptable when a country, which carried out armed aggression and occupation of Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, carries out cyberattacks, kills political opponents in NATO and the EU, spreads disinformation and undermines economic and financial stability, demands security guarantees from others, Kuleba said.

"Instead, it is the Euro-Atlantic community that should ask the Russian Federation such questions. When will Russia explain to all of us how it understands its own commitment not to strengthen its security at the expense of the security of others, including Ukraine?" the minister asked.

In this context, Ukraine and its partners coordinated steps to implement a comprehensive package to deter Russia from a new wave of aggression, which includes political, economic and security dimensions.

A number of the Bucharest Nine countries said that at the request of Ukraine, they are preparing solutions that will help strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities, cyber defense and economic stability.

The B9 format, created at the initiative of the presidents of Romania and Poland in November 2015, covers the countries of NATO's eastern flank. In addition to these two countries, B9 includes Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

Photo: President's Office

op
company saw its revenue from operations rise 43 per cent to Rs 921 crore in the December quarter (Q3) compared to Rs 645 crore in the year-ago period. It also registered a net profit of Rs 78 crore in Q3 of FY22 whereas it had recorded a loss of Rs 16 crore in the corresponding period of FY21.
03.02.2022 LISTEN

The High Court in Accra (Labour Division) presided over by His Lordship Justice Frank Rockson Aboadwe has implored on the leadership of the National Labour Commission (NLC) and University Teachers Association (UTAG) to settle the matter out of court.

The court has given them up to February 10, 2022, to report back.

The NLC had dragged UTAG to court following their refusal to comply with directives to call off the strike.

In court on Thursday, February 3, 2022, when the case was called, counsel for NLC Eva Amihere told the court that, they have two applications to move.

She told the court that, the first application is a motion for the enforcement of the directives issued by NLC on January 13, 2022, for UTAG to return to the lecture halls.

While the second motion, she said, is an Interlocutory injunction to stop UTAG from continuing with its strike.

But the presiding judge Justice Lordship Justice Frank Rockson Aboadwe requested to meet the party in chambers.

According to EIB Networks Court Correspondent Murtala Inusah, after a near-30-minute hearing in chambers, the parties left the courtroom.

Counsel for UTAG Kwesi Keli-Delataa told GHOne News after the in-chamber hearing that, they have agreed to settle the matter and report back to the court on February 10.

According to counsel if the parties were unable to agree on a settlement, the two motions would be moved.

---kasapafmonline
BUSAN, South Korea, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Precious metals are useful for the diversification and hedging of financial portfolio investment positions. In a new study, economists from Pusan National University, Korea, analyzed the spillovers and resource allocation characteristics of nine precious metals and global/regional equity markets, which was previously unexplored. The findings of this study can help financial investors protect their portfolios during financial turmoil and enable stakeholders to consider precious metals for important investment decisions.

Precious Metals and Equity Markets: Spillovers and Portfolio Optimization

The financial globalization and interdependence among financial security markets in recent times has complicated the task of diversifying investment portfolio positions, exposing security markets to higher contagion risks (the risk of financial difficulties at one bank spilling over to other banks).

Precious metals are regarded as financial assets which can mitigate these security investment portfolios risks. In fact, precious metals have recently been found to be negatively correlated with financial equity markets, highlighting their potential in the diversification and hedging of financial portfolio positions. However, no study has previously analyzed the portfolio risk characteristics and spillovers of precious metals commodities and equity markets across continents.

Now, a team of economists comprising Dr. Jose Arreola Hernandez from Rennes School of Business, France, and Dr. Sang Hoon Kang and Dr. Seong-Min Yoon from Pusan National University, Republic of Korea, have conducted this analysis in a new study published in Applied Economics.

"What precious metal commodities most largely spillover on the equity indices? What precious metals add the most/least risk to my portfolio? What precious metals are most desirable for investment? These are the closely linked questions we wanted to explore in this study," says Dr. Yoon, speaking of his motivation behind the study.

The team analyzed the relationship between the returns of nine precious metals: gold, silver, palladium, platinum, nickel, lead, zinc, copper, and aluminum. Furthermore, they analyzed the "spillover index" between these metals and regional/global equity markets, and performed a portfolio optimization using a differential evaluation method.

The findings revealed that the largest spillovers among precious metals occur between gold and silver and between zinc and lead, while the largest spillovers of the world, the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific equity indices are on palladium and copper.

Metals that most largely spillover on the equity indices of the world and the Americas are copper and zinc, on the equity indices of Europe are copper and lead, and on the equity indices of Asia Pacific are copper and silver. Additionally, nickel and lead add the highest risk to total portfolio risk, while platinum, gold and aluminum add the least risk to the portfolio of commodities. The most desirable metals for investment were found to be gold and aluminum.

How are these findings important? Dr. Yoon explains, "Understanding the relationship between precious metal and equity markets across continents and the world, as well as the role of precious metals in financial investment, is relevant for investors looking to protect their investment portfolios during financial turmoil and market downturns".

These findings can, thus, help portfolio investors with portfolio risk management and creation of hedging strategies. Moreover, financial policy makers can benefit from this study by gaining relevant insight on how the inclusion of precious metals can help them with important financial investment decisions.

Reference

Title of original paper: Spillovers and portfolio optimizations of precious metals and global/regional equity markets

Journal: Applied Economics

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00036846.2021.1988889

About Pusan National University

Website: https://www.pusan.ac.kr/eng/Main.do

Media contact:

Na-hyun Le

[email protected]

+82 51 510-7928

SOURCE Pusan National University
PLAINFIELD, Ind., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy said predicted heavy snow and freezing rain from today's winter storm are likely to cause widespread power outages throughout Indiana.

In advance of the storm, Duke Energy staged nearly 1,500 workers  power line technicians, damage assessors and vegetation workers  across its service area.

Those workers include Duke Energy crews normally based in North Carolina and South Carolina who traveled to Indiana to assist locally based crews.

"We brought in extra crews before the storm to ensure we had ample resources to restore our customers' power as quickly as possible," said Kevin Morgan, Duke Energy's general manager for emergency preparedness. "These crews more than doubled the number of workers we normally have available. Our teams are ready to restore power as soon as weather conditions safely allow."

The storm's severity and hazardous road conditions could delay crews' ability to begin power restoration in the hardest-hit areas, extending the duration of power outages for some customers.

Heavy, wet snow of six inches or more can cause trees and branches to fall on power lines, as can ice-buildup due to freezing rain  both resulting in power outages.

Duke Energy urged customers to make alternative housing arrangements in case they lose power during what is predicted to be a multi-day period of extremely cold temperatures. Households that have elderly residents or individuals with special medical needs are especially urged to make such arrangements.

Power restoration process

Following the storm, as conditions allow, damage assessment crews will assess the extent of damage  which can sometimes take several hours after major storms that cause widespread damage and dangerous driving conditions.

Damage assessments determine the types of crews, equipment and supplies needed to restore power in specific areas.

Simultaneously, other crews will begin repairs in certain areas, as conditions allow.

Some customers might experience more than one power outage, depending on the storm's severity and the power restoration process in specific, heavily impacted areas.

Duke Energy will provide estimated power restoration times as soon as those times are determined.

The company also will provide regular updates to customers and communities through emails, text messages, outbound phone calls, social media and its website, which includes power outage map s .

Duke Energy on Twitter: twitter.com/DukeEnergy

Duke Energy on Facebook: facebook.com/DukeEnergy

Duke Energy serves 860,000 customers in Indiana.

How to report power outages

Customers can report power outages by texting "OUT" to 57801 or by calling 800.343.3525.

Customers also can report outages online at duke-energy.com/outages or through the Duke Energy mobile app.

Sign up for outage alerts

Customers can receive the most up-to-date information about power restoration efforts by enrolling in Outage Alerts.

Winter storm safety reminders

Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized as well as trees or limbs in contact with lines. Please report downed power lines to Duke Energy or local emergency services.

If a power line falls across a car that you're in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

If you use a generator due to a power outage, follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. Operate your generator outside; never operate it inside a building or garage.

Don't use grills or other outdoor appliances or equipment indoors for space heating or cooking, as these devices may emit carbon monoxide.

More tips on what to do before, during and after a storm can be found at duke-energy.com/safety-and-preparedness/storm-safety. A checklist serves as a helpful guide, but it's critical  before, during and after a storm  to follow the instructions and warnings of emergency management officials in your area.

Avoid customer scams

Customers should be alert to scammers who might call them  impersonating Duke Energy representatives and threatening to cut off customers' power before or during the storm unless customers make an immediate payment for late bills or other charges.

Duke Energy never makes such calls.

Below are tips for customers to avoid such scams:

If it's a recorded voice, often referred to as a "robocall," be extra cautious.

Do not provide any personal information.

Duke Energy's actual recorded calls to customers are informative only. The company's calls never threaten to cut off power and never request personal information.

If a caller  recorded or live  specifically asks you to pay using a prepaid debit card, that's a red flag. Prepaid debit cards are like cash and the transactions cannot be reversed.

If the caller pressures you to make an immediate payment of any type  or provide personal information of any kind, such as a bank account number or social security number  hang up the phone.

Duke Energy Indiana



Duke Energy Indiana, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides about 6,600 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 860,000 customers in a 23,000-square-mile service area, making it Indiana's largest electric supplier.

Duke Energy ( NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 7.9 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 51,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The company employs 27,500 people.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy strategy to create a smarter energy future for its customers and communities  with goals of at least a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company is a top U.S. renewable energy provider, on track to own or purchase 16,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2025. The company also is investing in major electric grid upgrades and expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Duke Energy was named to Fortune's 2022 "World's Most Admired Companies" list and Forbes' "America's Best Employers" list. More information is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos and videos. Duke Energy's illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media contact: 800.559.3853

SOURCE Duke Energy
A rapist who sent inappropriate messages to a young girl in an effort to groom her days after being released from prison is back behind bars.

Joshua Bate, who identifies as a female, asked the child, who was under the age of 13, if she wanted to 'spoon' with her and that she'd like to 'kiss her lips' on January 3.

But the child instead notified an adult about the messages, and Bate was arrested soon after.

Bate, 25, had been out of prison only a few days after serving a seven year prison sentence for rape, Durham Crown Court heard on Wednesday.

Joshua Bate, 25, who identifies as a female, was jailed for 100 months at Durham Crown Court and ordered to sign the sex offenders' register for life. She was also handed lifetime sexual harm prevention and restraining orders

Bate, 25, had been out of prison only a few days after serving a seven year prison sentence for rape, Durham Crown Court heard

She appeared at the court on Wednesday, via link from HMP Durham, to be sentenced for inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Chris Baker, prosecuting, said Bate had travelled to Durham by train in order to stay at the home of someone she had messaged on Facebook, and had known as a child.

The court heard children were present at the home, and Bate 'played cards' with one girl who has mental health issues, before obtaining her mobile number.

Later that night, as everyone slept, Bate began to message the child, asking if she wanted to 'snuggle' and 'spoon'.

She told her to 'be quiet' and asked 'do you mind if my hands wander?'.

Mr Baker said Bate also said: 'This is our secret'.

However, the child notified an adult about the messages, and Bate was 'confronted' and the police were called.

The court heard Bate 'apologised' and admitted to police the messages were 'sexually motivated', but insisted she 'regretted it' and 'would not have put thoughts into actions'.

Bate appeared in court for sentence over video link from the category B HMP Durham, which houses up to 1,000 men

Bate admitted to officers she was 'attracted to children of both sexes'.

In a victim statement, the adult whose home Bate was staying in at the time, branded her a 'menace to society'.

They said: 'I feel like he wishes to change his sex and identity simply to hide what he is'.

The court was told Bate had been given a seven-year prison sentence in August 2015 for raping a woman, but had been released on licence.

In May 2020, Bate went on to sexually assault a schoolgirl on a bus.

Peter Sabiston, defending, said it was 'not a targeted incident' and said Bate's intention was to 'simply have a bed for the night'.

He said Bate recognises she has 'significant issues with children' and 'accepts what she has done was wrong'.

Mr Sabiston added it was a 'short grooming incident' and that Bate suffers with 'anxiety and depression'.

Sentencing Bate, of no fixed address, Judge Ray Singh said she sent the messages to the girl to 'incite her into sexual activity with you'.

Bate was given an extended prison sentence totalling 100 months and will be on the sex offenders' register for life.

A lifelong sexual harm prevention order was also imposed as well as a lifelong restraining order.

Under current Ministry of Justice guidelines, Bate would be sent to a male prison in the first instance but can request a transfer to a female facility.

She had been remanded in custody at HMP Durham, a category B prison for male inmates, following her arrest in January.

According to guidance used by prison authorities: 'Any request to move to another prison is subject to robust risk assessment.

'We updated our policies in 2019 and strengthened safeguards by introducing new training for prison staff, improving the risk assessment process and requiring every prison to have a dedicated senior officer responsible for transgender offenders.

'A High Court ruling in July 2021 reflected that the way we manage transgender offenders strikes the right balance between protecting their legal rights and ensuring the safety of all prisoners.

'A specialist case board made up of prison managers and experts will then review prison transfer requests  this would carefully assess for example the risk of keeping an prisoner in a male prison as well as the risk they could pose to prisoners in a female prison.'
FORT WORTH, Texas, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fort Worth family law attorney V. Wayne Ward was selected to the 2021 Texas Super Lawyers list. This is an annual designation given to top-rated attorneys in the state as determined by their peers. For Wayne Ward, this is his 12th consecutive year being named to the Super Lawyers list and his 16th overall.

Wayne Ward

Says Mr. Ward, "My more than 30 years in family law, coupled with my ability to incorporate new ideas and methods into my daily practice, have allowed me to earn my clients' trust and my peers' respect. I take neither for granted and am humbled daily by the work I am able to do."

This Super Lawyers designation isn't the only feather in Wayne Ward's cap. He is part of a select group of attorneys in Texas who is certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Certification. He is a Texas Bar Foundation Life Fellow and Fellow of the College of the State Bar of Texas.

Additionally, for the past 15 years, he has maintained Martindale Hubbell's AV Preeminent rating, peer-rated for the highest level of professional excellence. Martindale-Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings fall into two categories: legal ability and general ethical standards.

These awards, ratings and honorifics have all been rightfully earned. V. Wayne Ward has dedicated more than 30 years of his life to a career in family law, with a focus on high-asset and affluent divorces. He also takes great care and pride in how he helps parents and children through the divorce process, doing his best to ensure child custody matters are resolved outside of the courtroom as much as possible.

"As a parent myself, I understand the importance of preserving a healthy family and children relationship," says Ward. "That's why I've maintained my training and have used my experience to lead parents to create custody agreements outside of court."

This emphasis on resolving disputes outside of the courtroom is a hallmark of Wayne Ward's practice. Ward is strategic in selecting mediators that will match his clients' needs. As a result, approximately 90% of Wayne's cases that are mediated result in a settlement without going to trial.

In addition to his family law expertise, Mr. Ward has extensive business and finance acumen, an MBA and tax law experience.

About the Law Office of V. Wayne Ward

The Law Office of V. Wayne Ward is located in Fort Worth, Texas, and serves individuals throughout Tarrant County, Parker County, and Johnson County. As a board-certified family law attorney, V. Wayne Ward possesses the experience, training and skills necessary to handle the most complex family matters, including divorces involving business assets, family businesses and complex property issues. Visit the firm's website to learn more: www.wwlawman.com .

For more information, contact:

Wayne Ward

1201 East Belknap Street

Trinity Plantation Building

Fort Worth, TX 76102-2406

817-789-4436

SOURCE Wayne Ward
New delhi, Feb 3: A historic bridge in Rotterdam will be temporarily dismantled to enable a $485 million superyacht built for US billionaire Jeff Bezos to pass through, according to Dutch media reports.

The bridge, which is to be pulled apart, is called The Koningshavenbrug dates back to 1878 and was rebuilt after being damaged by German bombing during World War II.

Known to locals as De Hef, it was renovated in 2017 and the council promised at the time they wouldn't dismantle it again.

Local broadcaster Rijnmond said on Wednesday that this pledge is set to be broken to let through Bezos' yacht, which is still under construction.

The decision has sparked a wave of anger in the Netherlands as the local council promised after a major renovation in 2017 that it would never again dismantle the bridge, according to an AFP report.

The mayor's office insisted on the economic benefits and jobs created by the construction of the boat at a Dutch shipyard, but promised that the bridge would be restored to its present shape.

"It's the only route to the sea," a spokesman for the mayor of Rotterdam told AFP, adding that billionaire Bezos would foot the bill for the operation.

The middle section of the huge steel-girdered bridge will be removed to give enough clearance for the 40-metre (130-foot) high boat, Dutch media reported.

The process will take a few weeks and is expected to happen this summer.

Bezos, 57, is the founder of US tech giant Amazon and one of the world's richest men.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
HOPKINTON, Mass., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Since its founding in 2005, the team members and patients at Simply Dental Management and its affiliate practices have been fortunate to experience the power of a smile  thousands of times. In early November of 2021, they took this experience to the next level. They made a commitment to become the largest donor to the Worcester County Toys for Tots Drive.

About two weeks before Christmas, they proudly delivered 942 toys to Staff Sargent James Caldwell and his team with the United States Marine Corps. The toys were donated by the team members, patients, and partnering businesses of Simply Dental Management and their local practices. "In total, we were able to help 16,544 kids across Worcester County smile this Christmas. Their donation is absolutely outstanding," commented SSgt Caldwell.

Dr. Sam Alkhoury continued, "We hope our efforts made a small difference in the lives of these amazing kids and their families. At the same time, I guarantee it had a bigger impact on the 300 dedicated team members at Simply Dental Management. We saw first-hand the power of working together with our patients to strengthen the communities in which we live and work."

With this campaign as inspiration, Dr. Alkhoury recently announced Simply Dental's 22 in 2022 Initiative. The goal is simple. Simply Dental Management would like to sponsor or work with 22 deserving charities or organizations like Toys for Tots  who need the help of a network of 40 dental practices, 300 team members and 64,000 patients.

"February 2nd marks the official start of our year-long campaign to enrich the communities in which we live and work," announced Lacey Ansara, Marketing Manager at Simply Dental. "If you know of a charity that is deserving of more awareness and our support, please encourage them to visit any of our local practice's websites and complete an application."

Where:

87 Elm Street

Hopkinton, MA 01748

When:

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

Who:

Dr. Sam Alkhoury

Reference Information:

How To Apply

All 501c(3) designated charities in Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Hampshire are eligible to apply to participate in the 22 in 2022 Initiative. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with the goal of supporting 22 deserving charities or organizations during 2022. Ideal candidates will be able to benefit from the grassroots network of Simply Dental through which team members and patients can build awareness and make donations. For a list of Simply Dental Management's affiliate practices, please visit: www.simplydoinggood.com/ or click here to access an application.

More about Simply Dental Management

Our 40 dental practices and 300 team members across Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Hampshire share a simple, core focus. . . Smile Better, Live Better. Through this vision, we strive to provide high-quality dental care to all people in the communities we serve. This is done by supporting dental practices who share our 5 core values:

We Care

Do What's Right

Integrity and Respect

Encourage Individual Growth and Development

Bring Your Smile

In sharing this commitment, we are able to empower dedicated team members and enjoy strong patient relationships. In turn, we simplify the process for our dentist partners by allowing them to focus on clinical care while we handle the business and administrative systems.

Contact Information:

Website: www.simplydentalmanagement.com/

Lacey Ansara, Marketing Manager

Simply Dental

87 Elm Street

Hopkinton, MA 01748

(508) 589  8270

Michelle Kupper, Client Relations

TNT Dental

2100 North Collins Boulevard

Richardson, TX 75080

(877) 868  4932

SOURCE Simply Dental Management
A massive winter storm took aim at the Northeast on Thursday evening after the weather system canceled thousands of flights, knocked out power in parts of six states and spawned what was being called a deadly tornado in Alabama.

A foot or more of snow could fall by Saturday morning across a swath of the Northeast from Maine to portions of western Pennsylvania, according to the National Weather Service. Farther south, a band of ice accumulation is expected to stretch more than 1,000 miles from New England to west of Tennessee.

The heaviest snow  as much as two inches per hour  is expected overnight and into Friday morning, the Weather Service said.

Forecasters also warned of strong thunderstorms along the storm's warmer side in Mississippi and Alabama.

In western Alabama, a tornado that hit a rural area Thursday afternoon killed one person, a female he found under rubble, and critically injured three others, Hale County Emergency Management Director Russell Weeden told WBRC-TV.

More than 5,000 flights were canceled Thursday, according to the tracker Flightaware.com. More than 250,000 customers in Texas, Arkansas, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia and Tennessee lost power, according to Poweroutage.us.

The storm has already dumped more than a foot of snow in parts of the Midwest, even bringing rare measurable snowfall to parts of Texas.

"It is a slow-moving storm," AccuWeather senior meteorologist Dan Pydynowski told USA TODAY. "Such a long duration storm not only makes travel difficult over a long period of time, but it also allows the freezing rain to accumulate up to around 1 inch in some areas, which can cause power outages."

GROUNDHOG DAY: Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, meaning we're in for 6 more weeks of winter

Texas gets ice, snow; Oklahoma City breaks Groundhog Day snow record

In Dallas, up to a quarter of an inch of ice and 3 inches of sleet and snow were expected, the weather service said. Much of northern Texas to the border with Oklahoma could see 1 to 3 inches of snow, forecasts said.

Story continues

Farther south, Austin could see up to a quarter-inch of ice accumulation, and San Antonio could get up to a tenth of an inch.

Gov. Greg Abbott urged Texans to stay off the roads and said the state's power system would be able to handle the freeze. Last year, prolonged winter weather knocked out electricity for millions.

Oklahoma City broke its Groundhog Day snowfall record Wednesday with 3 inches of snow, according to Accuweather.

The weather service office in Norman, Oklahoma, forecast an additional 3 inches of snow for Oklahoma City on Thursday, and surrounding regions could get 4 to 6 inches.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt declared a state of emergency Tuesday before the winter weather.

Ice raises concerns in South; 'dual hazards' in Tennessee

Ice storm warnings were in effect for areas in eastern Arkansas and Missouri, western Kentucky and Tennessee and northern Mississippi.

"Significant icing is expected" for much of central Kentucky, according to the forecast office in Louisville. Some areas could get more than half an inch.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency Wednesday, and many schools in the state canceled classes or announced plans for remote learning.

"If everything holds right now, this is the real deal," Beshear said Wednesday. "It is dangerous. People need to be prepared, especially to stay off the roads tomorrow and potentially be ready to deal with this emergency for the next several days."

Ice began accumulating Thursday in parts of West Tennessee, including Memphis, causing power outages and dangerous road conditions during the morning commute. Memphis could see half to three-quarters of an inch of ice by the time the storm winds down Friday.

In Middle Tennessee, flooding and freezing rain were expected to be "dual hazards," according to the Nashville Weather Service office.

"In areas that see over a quarter inch of ice, that is when concerns start to grow about power outages as the weight of the ice weighs down power lines and tree limbs," Pydynowski, with AccuWeather, said.

To give you an idea of just how wide of an impact this winter storm will have... you can drive in a (relatively) straight line from Crockett County, TX to Aroostook County, ME (on the border of Maine and New Brunswick) and never be out of a Winter Storm Warning!  #txwx #sjtwx pic.twitter.com/MFF5ctzfr5  NWS San Angelo (@NWSSanAngelo) February 2, 2022

SLEET VS. FREEZING RAIN: What's the difference?

HOW TO DRIVE IN SNOW? Hint: Steer into the skid

Heavy snow in Midwest, Northeast

In the Midwest and Northeast, the cities that could see half a foot to more than a foot of snow included Indianapolis; St. Louis; Cleveland; Rochester, New York; Burlington, Vermont; and Augusta, Maine.

The storm on Wednesday brought more than a foot of snow to areas in Illinois and Missouri. In central Missouri, officials shut down part of Interstate 70. Illinois Gov. J. B. Pritzker and Missouri Gov. Mike Parson declared states of emergency Tuesday.

Swaths of Ohio and central Indiana could see 3 to 12 inches of snow while northern Indiana could expect up to 18 inches, weather service offices forecast. The snowfall led to several car crashes throughout central Indiana on Thursday morning.

Pittsburgh was forecast to get 1 to 2 inches, while other areas in northwestern Pennsylvania could see up to 8 inches, according to the weather service office there.

In northern New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, up to 18 inches were forecast, according to weather service offices.

"It's not going to be a heavy snow event with high snowfall rates," meteorologist David Thomas said of the storm in western New York. "This is a prolonged, gentle snow that will be more manageable, though roads will be snow-covered."

Contributing: Krista Johnson and Ayana Archie, Louisville Courier Journal; Rachel Wegner, The (Nashville) Tennessean; Victoria E. Freile, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle; Sarah Nelson, Indianapolis Star; The Associated Press

WHAT IS WIND CHILL? Understanding the wind chill index and how it's calculated

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Winter storm dumps snow and ice; blamed for deadly Alabama tornado
SPIRIT LAKE, ID - At about 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Kootenai County Sheriff Deputies and Officers from the Spirit Lake Police Department received a call of a suspicious person in the area of Nautical Loop and Hwy 41 trying to get into a residence.

Deputies and Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the male, but observed a vehicle that was later associated with the male. The vehicle was observed traveling at a high rate of speed down Nautical Loop towards Osprey Rd. Deputies attempted to stop the male who exited the vehicle and ran onto Spirit Lake, which is frozen.

While Deputies were attempting to stop the male, a call came into the 911 Center of a Structure Fire on Nautical Loop near Hwy 41. The structure was reported to be a detached shop which was fully engulfed when personnel from Spirit Lake Fire Department arrived on scene.

The male continued on the ice to the other side of the lake. While Deputies and Officers were attempting to setup a perimeter, a citizen called and advised the male was walking back across the lake. The male was eventually taken into custody without incident.

27-year-old Devin D. Denny, of Spirit Lake, Iwas taken into custody and booked into jail on charges of Felony Burglary, Petit Theft, Obstructing and Drug Paraphernalia. Police sais on Tuesday that it is unknown if Denny was associated with the structure fire, but additional charges could be forthcoming once the investigation is completed.

Denny has been arrested or charged 11 times since 2009 for alcohol and driving offenses.
INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Automotive Mobility today announced that industry veteran Kevin Clark has joined Dickinson Fleet Services as the company's new Head of Shop Operations. In this newly created executive position, Clark is charged with ensuring quality, maintenance and training excellence at the company's existing and new shop locations across the U.S.

"We're fortunate to add Kevin to our roster of leaders shaping the future of fleet services," said Ted Coltrain, Vice President of Operations at Dickinson Fleet Services. "Kevin has an excellent track record of innovation, growth and operational excellence, which will pay dividends for our newly formed Fleet Services business unit and the continued success of our customers."

"I'm honored to join the team at Cox Automotive Mobility and Dickinson Fleet Services, both industry pioneers in the transportation industry," said Clark. "I look forward to partnering with our elite team across the country to continue delivering high-quality service across our 25+ shop locations."

A highly regarded leader in the fleet services and maintenance industry, Clark has nearly 30 years of experience leading operations, and driving customer growth and value. Prior to joining Cox Automotive, he served as Executive Vice President & General Manager for Amerit Fleet Solutions. In his 11 years at Amerit, Clark was in charge of overseeing the company's nationwide field and fleet operations, with a focus on quality responsiveness and customer satisfaction. In addition, he led the introduction of several new locations, as well as the training of multiple fleet maintenance systems.

Clark also spent more than a decade at Salem Nationalease Corp., where he was responsible for the employees, customers and facilities for 10 of the company's southeast locations. He started his storied career as shop chief and quality control inspector for the United States Marine Corps. at Camp Lejuene in North Carolina.

About Dickinson Fleet Services

Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Dickinson Fleet Services (DFS) has grown to become one of the largest fleet maintenance providers in the country. DFS is the leading provider of on-site mobile maintenance and repair services nationwide, offering mobile on-site maintenance and repair services for light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks and trailers through its fleet of more than 1,000 mobile trucks. DFS also services fleets with its network of more than 25 maintenance facilities each offering select services from accident repair, paint, refurbishment, and dedicated technician services, combined with the nation's largest self-performing 24/7 emergency repair and towing service. Dickinson Fleet Services is a Cox Automotive brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. www.dickinsonfleet.com

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using vehicles easier for everyone. The global company's more than 27,000 team members and family of brands, including Autotrader, Dealer.com, Dealertrack, Dickinson Fleet Services, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, NextGear Capital, VinSolutions, vAuto  and Xtime , are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with annual revenues of nearly $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

SOURCE Cox Automotive Mobility
DOUGLAS, Isle of Man, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ndau , a digital currency known for its adaptive capabilities, has experienced outstanding growth performance for year ending 2021, resulting from continued mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies and a market shift from mining to staking. As a new category of digital asset, ndau is the next generation in self-custody wallet staking, optimized for a long-term store of value with staking rewards and a goal of buoyancy.

Over the course of 2021, ndau was listed on BittrexGlobal, Liquid, and KuCoin and is now trading on six major exchanges. ndau soared to a record-high market capitalization of almost $200M, and was purchased in more than thirty countries. And, ndau experienced 400% growth with new wallet app accounts.

Alongside wallet growth, ndau's node program also gained significant momentum with over 20 node operators running and operating their own validator nodes , generating yield and earning staking rewards. Over 200 ndau is distributed per day for node rewards.

"This has been an incredible year for ndau," says John Lester, VP of Operations, Oneiro. "Its strong momentum positions ndau for continued growth and expansion in 2022. The market is moving from mining to staking, and ndau is capitalizing on this shift."

The global market for cryptocurrencies is undeniably growing. As evidenced by strong demand for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and others, digital currencies represent significant advancements in how value is stored and exchanged. However, ndau provides all the benefits of a digital currency while promoting fair and accountable governance, dependability, and greater safety not found in existing cryptocurrencies. As a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) blockchain , ndau has been designed with a unique monetary policy that encourages long-term holding and discourages active, speculative trading. ndau has the freedom to rise with increasing demand while mitigating downside volatility by reacting to real-time supply and demand conditions; thus becoming a true generator of staking rewards.

"Ndau is gaining investor trust and is earning the confidence of some heavy hitters in the blockchain and crypto space. They are attracted to ndau's simplicity, self-sovereignty, and the fact that staking is the new mining," says Lester.

ABOUT ndau

ndau is an adaptive digital currency originally built by Oneiro for The Axiom Foundation, as a true long-term store of value. It is a governed and completely decentralized ecosystem built on the Tendermint protocol and is a premier DeFi option on the Cosmos Network. Designed with built-in economic structures that incentivize potential for growth, ndau provides all the benefits of a digital currency while promoting more fair and accountable governance, dependability, and greater safety for owners not found in existing cryptocurrencies. ndau is not pegged to fiat currencies or commodities, allowing for more desirable characteristics for long-term holders in particular. For more information on ndau, please visit: www.ndau.io .

Media Contact: Lauren Gill, MAG PR, E: [email protected] and T: 978-473-1362.

SOURCE ndau
Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca and Minister of Economy Florin Marian Spataru met on Thursday with representatives of MEDEF (Mouvement des Entreprises de France), an organization that brings together over 75 pct of the French companies, who voiced the desire to invest in Romania's economy, in areas that would generate development and new jobs, the government informed in a press release sent to AGERPRES.

"I appreciate the significant presence of French investors in our country and I thank them for their substantial contribution to the development of the local economy. The government has allocated for investments a budget of 18 billion euros this year. Together with the 80 billion euros, European money allocated for the next years, these resources are essential for infrastructure projects, digitization, green energy, education and support for the resilience of Romania's economy," PM Ciuca said.He stressed that the Romanian authorities are preoccupied with creating an investment and business climate "as attractive as possible", mentioning the opportunities Romania can offer as a future member of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. The 38 members, 23 of whom are European, are developed countries, accounting for over 70 pct of global production and trade and 90 pct of the world level of foreign direct investment. On the other hand, Romania's economic evolution shows that, in its 15 years as an EU member state, the Gross Domestic Product has tripled and the GDP per capita has increased fourfold, the press release states.The discussions highlighted the importance of investing in areas such as nuclear energy, civil protection, the environment or infrastructure. The sides also discussed the mutual benefits that close economic cooperation could have in terms of modernising transport infrastructure, as well as in terms of combating air pollution in urban agglomerations and possible solutions to accelerate digitisation."Among the sectors of industry identified as having significant potential are the microelectronics industry, for which the Ministry of Economy prepares projects worth 500 million euros through PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan) - this investment supporting the EU's approach to become a net exporter of semiconductors, the development of industrial and technological relations between the two countries by creating an environment conducive to the development of the circular economy, for the use of new technologies in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions," reads the government's release.According to him, in the context of investments in the integrated circuits industry and the microelectronics industry, the sides talked about creating premises for the participation of Romanian companies in the field in the European objectives of developing the European ecosystem through PNRR, facilitating Romania's involvement in a large-scale project that brings together over 100 companies in Europe.
Former British Airways chairman and chief executive officer, Alex Cruz, denied a media report which said he was likely to be the new CEO of Air India.

Whilst it is very nice to be mentioned as a candidate for roles as important as this one, I can confirm that I am not a candidate nor have I been, the aviation veteran told DH in an email.

Earlier on Thursday, The Times of India had reported that Cruz, who had rich experience of heading both full service and low-cost airlines, may helm the Indian airline which was recently bought by Tata Sons.

We have no comments to offer at the moment, Tata spokesman Harsha Ramachandra said in a reply to an email seeking comment on the original media report.

Tata took control of the debt-laden state-run carrier last month, winning back ownership after nearly seven decades. It was launched in 1932 by J.R.D. Tata., a legendary industrialist and Indias first licensed pilot.

The new chief of Air India faces the mammoth task of turning around a debt-laden carrier, with old aircraft, a huge workforce and falling market share. But the carrier still controls prime slots at airports in India and abroad.

Also read: EPFO onboards Air India, takes into fold 7,453 airline employees for social security benefits

Tata Sons is looking for someone with international experience to lead Air India.

It is very clear that they want to get somebody who has a strong understanding of international airlines and a very strong appreciation of what the global customer needs, said Mark Martin, chief executive at aviation industry consultancy Martin Consulting LLC.

The incoming CEO of Air India will have to find ways to focus on regaining a global foothold and take control of markets where it lost out to Middle Eastern airlines.

Thats where the bread and butter revenue comes in, Martin said. So, again, go back to where the Indian diaspora is.

The new leader will also have to help the airline expand organically to what Air India was back in the 50s and 60s, Martin said.

He sees the new CEO getting ample freedom to decide on Air Indias future journey.

The Tatas have always given enough leverage and leeway to whoever wants to run their ventures, Martin said. They are not going to micromanage.

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Khachatrian told reporters that he will strive to find solutions through dialogue and discussion, rather than confrontation. He would not say whether he will stand up to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian if necessary.

Civil Contract officially nominated Khachatrian for the vacant post on Wednesday ten days after former President Armen Sarkissian unexpectedly announced his resignation, complaining about his largely ceremonial powers. The ruling party controls enough parliament seats to install the 62-year-old economist as the next president of the republic.

Pashinian said on January 24 that the new president must be in sync with his administration. He said there was a lack of such political harmony about a year ago when the Armenian army top brass demanded his resignation, deepening a political crisis resulting from Armenias defeat in the 2020 war in Nagorno-Karabakh.

The premier seemed to refer to Sarkissians reluctance to quickly rubber-stamp his decision to fire the countrys top general.

Pashinian similarly said on Thursday that the president and the government must share a common strategy and avoid opposite movements.

This doesnt mean that everyone must have the same view on every issue, he said. It means arriving at common conclusions and opinions as a result of discussions.

Khachatrian faulted the former president for not always finding common ground with the executive and legislative branches of Armenias government.

Opposition politicians and other critics of the government believe that Sarkissian was on the contrary too subservient to Pashinian during his nearly four-year presidency.
A cloud PBX, also known as hosted PBX, offer many benefits over an on-premise system, like lower costs, more flexibility, and powerful analytics.

Unlike an on-premise PBX system, a cloud PBX runs over an internet connection and is hosted in a secure off-site data centre.

A cloud PBX offers the same functionality as a traditional PBX, like calling, voicemail, and call forwarding. These are, however, only the tip of the iceberg.

Unlike a traditional PBX, a cloud-based hosted PBX does not require expensive on-site equipment that is costly and requires constant maintenance.

It offers great flexibility, making it possible to add or remove users on the fly and support multiple locations  a big benefit of remote working.

Cloud PBX systems have excellent uptime to ensure business continuity. Another benefit is that all updates and maintenance are performed by your hosted PBX provider.

It is very cost-effective. Apart from saving on hardware costs, VoIP calls are much cheaper than traditional fixed-line calls, and users typically enjoy free on-net calling.

Cloud-based hosted PBX systems also offer powerful features, like mobile device support, voice call transcription, built-in video conferencing, call analytics, and strong security.

With these benefits in mind, it is not surprising that many South African companies are ditching their traditional PBX system in preference of a hosted PBX.

This trend accelerated during the lockdown with remote working requiring flexible solutions with good analytics to monitor the performance of employees.

This raises the question of which South African companies have the best cloud PBX offerings.

The list below gives an overview of prominent hosted PBX solutions in South Africa from reliable telecoms companies.

Vox Verto Supreme  click here for more

Voxs Verto Supreme offers flexibility and lower costs through an uncapped voice offering or exceptionally low calling rates.

The system also features a single price per user, excellent scalability, good accessibility and exceptional reliability.

Euphoria cloud PBX  click here for more

Euphorias cloud business phone system includes an intuitive telephone management system that is hassle-free, reliable and simple to operate.

The system supports three to over 1,000 extensions and offers detailed reports, real-time monitoring, call tracking, and trend data.

Vodacom Business Hosted IP PBX  click here for more

Vodacom Business Hosted IP PBX offers hassle-free set-up and a unified platform that gives superior data and voice exchange quality.

It further provides superior cost management and forecasting with a predictable and affordable monthly fee.

Ignite Cloud PBX  click here for more

The Ignite Cloud PBX does not require an upfront hardware investment, resulting in a big reduction in call costs. It is also easy to set up and use.

Cloud PBX from Ignite is aimed at smaller businesses of up to 15 users, with prices starting at R80 per user on a 24-month contract.

Converged Cloud Telephony  click here for more

Converged Cloud Telephony is a multi-tenant cloud-based system for those companies seeking high-end PBX functionality for a much lower price than a standalone platform.

The functionality includes call centre support, running multiple devices on one extension, and seamless transfer between smartphone and desk phones.
Miram Taron is still struggling to get over the trauma and the fatigue he had underone during his nine-day-long restrainment by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China since he was caught near the Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh and taken to their camp on January 18.

"I have been asked to take rest by army doctors," 19-year-old Miram, son of Opang Taron, a farmer in Jido village in Upper Siang district told DH over the phone on Thursday. "It is like a second life for me. I thought I would be killed. But now that I have come back, my only request to our government is to give me a chance to work with the army to serve the nation," Taron said.

His father, Opang, told DH that Miram faced trauma and fatigue since he was kept blindfolded and handcuffed for 10 days and taken from one place to another. "He was kicked and given electric shocks as he did not understand their language. Miram requested them to speak in Hindi or Adi (mother tongue) but they did not understand him," he said.

Miram and his friend Johny Yaying had gone to the Bishing area near the LAC for hunting, around 6 pm when it was starting to get dark, when Chinese forces surrounded them. Johny managed to flee but PLA personnel caught Miram and took him to their camp. "It took around 15 to 20 minutes to reach their camp. The next day, they took me in a car to another place and asked me a lot of things in their language, which I did not understand," he said.

Also Read  Thought they would kill me, says Arunachal teen who was abducted by Chinese authorities: Report

The place from where Miram was taken into custody was the area where Chinese forces had entered the Indian territory and tried to construct a road. This led to a standoff between PLA and Indian Army personnel till Chinese forces stepped back.

BJP MP from Arunachal Pradesh, Tapir Gao, on January 19 claimed that Miram was abducted by the PLA from within Indian territory.

Miram, who studied till only class 8 is the fourth son of Opang. His three elder brothers have none to little levels of education and are a part of the family agriculture activities. His younger brother is studying in a college.

Miram's father said their only request to the government was to give his son a job, either in the army or with the state police, as per his educational qualification so that he can serve the nation.

Miram was released by the PLA on January 27 and handed over to the Indian Army at the Kibithu border interaction point in Anjaw district of eastern Arunachal Pradesh, which is nearly 1,000 kilometres from where he was taken into custody. He was reunited with his family on January 31, after a quarantine.

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By Toby Sterling

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) -The city of Rotterdam is to put a one-year freeze on the introduction of any more "dark stores" - small distribution centres in the city used as hubs for on-demand grocery services like Getir, Gorillas, Flink, Zapp and others.

The move follows a similar decision by Amsterdam https://www.reuters.com/article/amsterdam-dark-stores-idUSKBN2K129D last week as city residents push back against nuisances caused by the services that promise delivery in 10 minutes or less. These have mushroomed in major cities around Europe since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Everybody knows them by now: darkened windows, disruption to the flow of traffic in shopping streets, noise from loading, reckless bike delivery people and nuisance from the waiting drivers," said Rotterdam city council woman Roos Vermeij in a statement.

"There's nothing wrong in principle with fast delivery, but how it's being done in practice is bloody irritating."

Amsterdam last week put a one-year freeze on further dark store openings, citing complaints from the public.

The city estimated there were 31 dark stores within its limits, and Rotterdam said on Thursday it has 13 "and growing fast", all established within the past half year.

A spokesperson for the city said existing stores would not be required to close.

"Since launching in the Netherlands last year, the reception we have received has been overwhelmingly positive," said Britain's Zapp in an emailed response.

Turkey's Getir said in a message that the company was sorry to hear about the Rotterdam decision.

"We have created more than 1,500 fully employed jobs in the Netherlands alone," a Getir spokesperson said.

"We carefully pick the location of our stores and deliver with 100% electric vehicles, creating no nuisance."

A spokesperson for Berlin-based Gorillas, which has 2,000 Dutch employees said the company was surprised by the decision and it intends to engage in talks with the cities to resolve complaints.

Germany's Flink did not immediately respond to request for comment but said after the Amsterdam decision it would work with authorities and noted that its service benefits local entrepreneurs who use its platform as a way to deliver goods.

(Reporting by Toby Sterling; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
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U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid on Monday. According to the State Departments read-out of the conversation, they discussed shared challenges, in the face of potential Russian aggression against Ukraine. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Its not clear what, if anything, Blinken is hoping for from Israel. But two days later, Israeli radio, quoting Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, reported that Ukraine is seeking to buy Israeli cyber- and air-defense systems. That may be what Blinken had in mind, but taking a side in this conflict is very clearly not in Israels national interest.

Certainly, Israel should be rooting for the United States in this dispute. The U.S. is, after all, Israels indispensable ally. And the unprovoked invasion of a neighboring country and the potential mass loss of life is something no democracy could want to see.

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But Israel is almost unique in that it has good relations with Moscow, Kyiv and Washington. It not a member of the European Union or NATO; it has no dog in this fight. From Israels viewpoint, the borders of Europe are matters for the big powers to decide.

And threatened by Iranian proxies who are armed with a vast arsenal of missiles, the government in Jerusalem can also understand why Russia is nervous about advanced NATO weapons stationed along its borders in Eastern Europe. No, NATO hasnt declared the destruction of Russia its central mission, as Iran has; it has always been a defensive alliance. Still, there is respect in Israel for Russias viewpoint too.

Israel  which has annexed East Jerusalem and the Golan after winning them in battle  is hardly in a position to lecture or even share international umbrage at Russias threatened annexation of eastern Ukraine on the grounds that it is a historical part of the Russian homeland. Putin has even held up Israel as a model for Ukrainians and Russians. He has publicly expressed his friendship with the million-strong community of Russian emigres in Israel.

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An escalation of the conflict could be dangerous for Israel, too. As the Kenyan ambassador put it in this weeks United Nations Security Council session, when the elephants fight the grass gets trampled.

Kyiv is 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles) from Jerusalem. Washington is even farther. But Russia is effectively right next door  in Syria, where Putin is the real decider and his goodwill is critical to Israeli security.

For more than a decade, Israel has been fighting a clandestine intelligence and air campaign against Iranian efforts to supply Hezbollah in Lebanon with advanced rockets and missiles for use against Israel. This campaign has been, and still is, waged mostly in Syrian skies against Syrian weapons depots.

Putin could have shut down Israeli operations when his troops entered Syria in 2015. Instead, he has allowed the Israeli air force to operate with something like freedom, asking only that Israel de-conflict (i.e., coordinate) with Russian military headquarters in Syria.

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This is a break with traditional Kremlin policy, and it has won Putin friends here. So have gestures that demonstrate personal warmth toward the state of Israel. In 2020, Putin came to Jerusalem to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Russian liberation of Auschwitz. He has referred to Israels million ex-Russian immigrants as brothers and sisters.

But Putin is not in Syria for sentimental reasons, nor is he there to rehabilitate that country after its civil war. He has come to establish a beachhead in the Middle East and the Mediterranean  a dream of Russian foreign policy since the time of the Czars. The naval bases he has built on the Syrian coast are a warrant that he intends to stay in the region. Its useful to have Israel as a neutral party, if not quite a friend.

Russias strategy and its positioning in the region are something that Israel needs to take into account, especially at a time when the U.S. is turning its own strategic focus to the Pacific. The U.S. will not likely abandon the Middle East or surrender its role as Israels chief defender. But Russia is now a permanent resident in the neighborhood. Staying out of its quarrels with Europe and the U.S. is simply common sense.

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More from This Writer and Others at Bloomberg Opinion:



Israels Military Can Afford to Be Choosier: Zeev Chafets



Germanys Farcical Russia Policy: Andreas Kluth



Two Ways a War in Ukraine Affects Europes Gas: Javier Blas

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Zev Chafets is a journalist and author of 14 books. He was a senior aide to Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and the founding managing editor of the Jerusalem Report Magazine.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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Joe Biden is heading to New York City on Thursday to discuss strategies to quell gun violence as the administration takes heat for not addressing, and even dismissing, spiking crime rates in America's cities.

The president will be joined on the trip by his Attorney General Merrick Garland and the two will be greeted by NYC Mayor Eric Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The group will meet at NYPD headquarters to discuss gun violence.

They will also visit a public school in Queens to discuss 'community violence intervention programs with local leaders,' according to the president's Thursday public schedule.

Biden's Justice Department announced on Thursday new initiatives to tackle rising crime, with a specific focus on firearms and gun violence.

It comes after his top spokesperson Jen Psaki was ridiculed for 'laughing off' concerns that the administration is being too soft on crime despite a 510 per cent nationwide spike in carjackings over the last year and 28 police officers being shot in January.

The trip also will put the president face-to-face with New York's police officers just days after the buried two of their own.

Thousands of officers showed up Wednesday for the funeral of slain New York Police Department officer Wilbert Mora, 27, who was fatally shot in the line of duty.

The funeral was the second in less than a week as Mora's partner, Officer Jason Rivera, 22, was also gunned down in Harlem during a January 21 response to a call from a woman about a domestic dispute with her criminal son.

Rivera's funeral was on Friday.

Biden's visit to New York on Thursday is the first presidential trip to 1 Police Plaza since Barack Obama stopped there in 2011.

President Joe Biden will head to New York City Thursday to meet with police officials and community leaders to discuss the administration's crack down on crime  specifically on gun violence. Biden arrives with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (left) at the Capitol Thursday morning for the 70th annual National Prayer Breakfast

It comes the day after thousands of police turned out for the Wednesday funeral of slain Officer Wilbert Mora, 27, who was gunned down along with his 22-year-old partner Officer Jason Rivera on January 21 during a domestic dispute call in Harlem

One avenue Biden intends to crack down on, according to a Thursday fact sheet, is interstate firearms trafficking and specifically the illegal flow of guns sold in the south and transported up the East Coast, known as the 'Iron Pipeline.' These firearms are found at crime scenes in cities like Baltimore and New York City and are tracked back down south.

The DOJ is also launching the National Ghost Gun Enforcement Initiative to increase investigations and prosecution of those who use 'ghost guns' to commit crimes.

Biden has long previewed a crackdown on so-called 'ghost guns', which are homemade firearms that do not possess serial numbers and are often purchased without the required background check.

Serial numbers on guns are used to track the firearm.

The Justice Department will also pursue prosecution of unlicensed firearms dealers who sell guns without background checks.

February 1-7 marks the fourth-ever National Gun Violence Survivors Week, which was established after the deadly Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting that took the lives of 17 people on February 14, 2018.

While Biden's initiatives to reduce crime appear centrally focused on guns, Republicans are urging the president to go beyond gun violence during his visit to the Big Apple.

They want him to tackle 'all these crime issues' that have made residents wary and resulted in the deaths of multiple police officers.

According to the most recently available crime data of the week ending on January 30, city-wide reported rapes increased by a staggering 47.7 per cent compared to the same week in 2021.

Biden's visit comes as almost every metric of major crime is on the rise in New York City

Biden will meet Thursday with New York Governor Kathy Hochul (left), NYC Mayor Eric Adams (right) and other officials at NYPD headquarters in downtown Manhattan

Grand larceny rose in the same period by 39.6 per cent, and robberies by 28.3 per cent.

Biden may have to save face for his administration in front of law enforcement after White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki was eviscerated earlier this week for her response to concerns over violent crime in America's urban centers.

She said Americans care more about 'what's happening in their daily lives' amid sharp rises in major crime.

Psaki said during a recent appearance on the podcast Pod Save America that while CNN and MSNBC were focused on Ukraine-Russia tensions, 'On Fox is Jeanine Pirro talking about soft-on-crime consequences, I mean, what does that even mean?'

'There's an alternate universe on some coverage,' Psaki added. 'What's scary about it is a lot of people watch that. They think that the president isn't doing anything to address people's safety in New York and that couldn't be further from the truth.'

'People care more about what's happening in their lives than what's necessarily happening in every cable news chyron every day,' she said.

National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) President Patrick Yoes swiftly condemned her comments.

'I think it's wrong -- very wrong -- for Ms. Psaki to suggest that violent crime in our country is of no concern or to just laugh it off,' Yoes said in a statement.

'She may feel safe in the White House, one of the most protected buildings in the United States, but not everyone feels safe in their workplace. The world we find ourselves in is dangerous and increasingly more so,' Yoes continued.

Republican lawmakers also pounced, with Arizona Representative Andy Biggs writing on Twitter that her comments were 'completely out of touch.'

Now the GOP is insisting Biden address crime overall, and not just focus on the leftist agenda of further regulating firearms sales, which many on the right feel is infringing on the Second Amendment.

Republicans are urging the administration to focus on all crime, and not just gun violence. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, New York City's only Republican in the U.S. Congress, said on Wednesday that she wants officials to look beyond just gun violence when tackling rising crime

Speaking to Fox Business on Wednesday morning, Republican Representative Nicole Malliotakis said she and her colleagues in NYC's Congressional delegation met with Adams on Tuesday to discuss the spike in crime ahead of Biden's trip.

'I told [Adams], President Biden is coming to talk about gun violence -- you need to talk about all the other issues, because it's not just guns,' she told host Maria Bartiromo.

Malliotakis referenced a recent knifing of a 22-year-old in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bay Ridge, which she represents.

'Somebody was stabbed to death in my district over the weekend, and you have all categories of crime, from rape, robbery, assault, and grand theft auto -- all increasing,' the lawmaker said.

'And so we need to address all these crime issues and give police the tools they need to do their job.'

The president visit comes at critical time for the nation's largest city. Last month crime shot up more than 38 percent across the 28-day period ending on January 30th, compared to the same point at the beginning of 2021.

At NYPD headquarters, Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland will be meeting with elected leaders including Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul, as well as law enforcement officials.

They'll discuss how local officials are working to 'quickly take guns and repeat shooters off of our streets,' Psaki said at her Tuesday briefing.

Thousands of officers standing outside St Patrick's Cathedral on Wednesday salute their fallen brother, Officer Wilbert Mora. This is the second NYPD funeral in just five days
Hundreds of media in Afghanistan have been forced to close due to economic collapse, threats and draconian reporting restrictions since the Taliban came to power, according to a major new survey.

Thousands of journalists and media professionals, especially women, have lost their jobs.

The survey, conducted by IFJ-affiliate Afghanistan National Journalists Union (ANJU) across 33 provinces, shows 318 media have closed since 15 August 2021. Just 305 of the 623 media which were active before the Taliban took control are still operating.

The crisis has hit newspapers the hardest with just 20 out of 114 continuing to publish. 51 TV stations, 132 radio stations and 49 online media have ceased operations according to the report compiled for the IFJ.

The collapse of media and threats against journalists mean just 2334 journalists are still working from a pre-Taliban high of 5069. Just 243 women are still employed by media. 72% of those who have lost their jobs are women.

The report is the latest in a series of surveys being compiled thanks to the development of a new media monitoring programme by ANJU, supported by the IFJ and the Norwegian Journalists Union.

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said: For the first time, from data collected across 33 provinces, we can see the true scale of the crisis affecting journalism in Afghanistan. From threats to draconian reporting restrictions and from economic collapse to the withdrawal of development funding the picture is catastrophic not just for journalists who have lost their jobs or been forced to flee but also for citizens who are being denied access to information.

The international community must urgently provide the aid and assistance to support journalists and journalism to shine a light on what is happening across Afghanistan and address the humanitarian crisis faced by journalists and their families - both those who have been forced to flee and those who remain but without work and in poverty.
The United States has kept warnings about the consequences of a Russian nuclear strike in Ukraine deliberately vague, so that the Kremlin worries about the response.

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The shattered mother of one of Australia's youngest Covid victims has expressed her anger with the Queensland government for opening the state border before children could be vaccinated.

Brave Ruby McCosker died on Tuesday after her heart stopped on a ventilator in a Queensland hospital, but her mother Ashleigh wants the five-year-old remembered as a 'beautiful and sweet girl, not a statistic'.

She battled Covid for two weeks, with her health rapidly deteriorating earlier this week.

In 2018, Ruby was diagnosed in 2018 with Cockayne Syndrome Type 2, which is an incurable, rare and inherited medical condition that left her unable to talk or walk, and was given a life expectancy of seven years.

Despite her struggles in life, Ruby 'lived life to the fullest' and was a popular face at her local kindergarten.

Brave five-year-old Ruby McCosker (pictured) died on Tuesday from Covid after her heart stopped on a ventilator in a Queensland hospital - she is also the first child to die from the virus in the Sunshine State

Her heartbroken mother Ashleigh has called out the Queensland government for opening the border before her daughter was able to get a Covid shot and develop immunity

'They resuscitated her and I think she came back so she could give me that time to say goodbye,' a heartbroken Ms McCosker told Channel 7.

She explained she was angry Queensland's borders were opened before children like Ruby were able to be vaccinated and develop immunity.

The earliest possible appointment for Ruby to get jabbed was last Friday - but by then she already Covid-19.

She was also the first child in Queensland to die with the virus.

Ruby's genetic condition saw her given a life expectancy of seven years - with Covid cheating the little girl and her family of precious further life memories.

The little girl's aunt Lucinda Jeffery, has organised a GoFundMe page to help raise money ahead of the funeral on February 11.

She wrote 'we really just wanted the world to know, she wasn't just a child who died with Covid, she was someone's child, she was my sister Ashleigh's beloved daughter and her name was Ruby.

'Ruby was a much loved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin and friend to many.

'Her little bug eyes from her glasses were adorable and her infectious smile and spirit lit up the world.'

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk passed on her condolences to the McCosker family, saying: 'It's a very sad duty to have to report our first young child that has passed away due to Covid.

'A young child under the age of 10...'It's absolutely devastating to hear that news.'

Earlier on Thursday, it was revealed Queensland has managed to keep an extraordinarily low Covid death rate by successfully keep the dangerous Delta variant out - so far.

Over the course of the pandemic, the Sunshine State has recorded 423,260 cases in total, but 225 deaths with the virus - just 0.05 per cent of patients.

Queensland has managed to keep an extraordinarily low Covid death rate by successfully keeping the dangerous Delta variant out - so far (pictured, a resident in the CBD)

By contrast, Victoria's 2,029 deaths made up 0.2 per cent of 833,216 cases and NSW's 1,422 deaths from 905,794 infections made up 0.15 per cent of cases.

Associate Professor Paul Griffin, an infectious disease specialist from the University of Queensland, also pointed to factors unique to the state.

'Time and time again, despite our response being similar to the other states, our case numbers seem to decline quickly,' he said.

'We (Queensland) are relatively spread out, we have a more outdoor lifestyle and live in better ventilated homes... these factors also contribute.'

Queensland's vaccination rate is now 92.03 per cent of people aged 16 and over with a first dose and 89.63 per cent who have received two doses.
Minsk has lodged a protest with Kiev over a Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) illegally crossing the Belarusian border, as Tass informs the press service of the Belarusian Foreign Ministry stated on Thursday.

February 3, 2022, 17:17 Minsk issues protest to Kiev over Ukrainian drone illegally breaching Belarusian border

STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: "On February 3, the foreign ministry summoned Ukrainian Ambassador to Belarus Igor Kizim to protest against the targeted launch of a UAV from Ukraine to Belarus," the press service noted.

As the Belarusian Foreign Ministry noted, on January 24, the Ukrainian drone illegally crossed the Belarusian state border and was forced to land. "According to the analysis of on-board equipment data, it was confirmed that it was launched from Ukraine to carry out illegal reconnaissance activities over the Brestsky training ground," the diplomatic service pointed out.

The Belarusian Foreign Ministry told Kiev that "through these unfriendly steps, [Ukraine] is deliberately fueling an escalation of the situation in the region, which does not contribute to a civilized bilateral dialogue." Minsk also called on Kiev to avoid such destructive actions in the future, according to the press service.
NEW YORK, February 03, 2022--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Columbia Care Inc. (NEO: CCHW) (CSE: CCHW) (OTCQX: CCHWF) (FSE: 3LP) ("Columbia Care" or the "Company"), one of the largest and most experienced cultivators, manufacturers and providers of cannabis products in the U.S., is pleased to announce it has completed a private placement (the "Offering") of US$185,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 9.50% senior-secured first-lien notes due 2026 (the "2026 Notes").

The Offering was conducted on a "best-efforts" basis pursuant to an agency agreement entered into on February 2, 2022 between the Company and a syndicate of agents. Canaccord Genuity Corp. acted as the sole lead agent and lead bookrunner, and ATB Capital Markets Inc. acted as co-bookrunner in connection with the Offering.

The 2026 Notes are senior secured obligations of the Company and were issued at 100% of face value. The 2026 Notes accrue interest payable semi-annually in arrears and mature on February 3, 2026, unless earlier redeemed or repurchased. The Company may redeem the 2026 Notes at par, in whole or in part, on or after February 3, 2024, as more particularly described in the fourth supplemental trust indenture governing the 2026 Notes.

"This non-dilutive financing provides Columbia Care with additional flexibility to continue executing on our strategic growth initiatives, especially in markets like New Jersey, New York and Virginia, where we are serving a growing number of medical patients and preparing for adult use on the horizon. We have reduced our overall cost of capital and are grateful to our investors who recognize our improved credit profile and understand the catalysts ahead," said Nicholas Vita, CEO of Columbia Care.

The net proceeds from the Offering are intended to be used to fund capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions and for general corporate purposes. In connection with the Offering, the Company has received binding commitments to exchange approximately US$31.75 million of the Companys existing 13% senior secured notes due 2023, pursuant to private agreements in accordance with the trust indenture, for an equivalent amount of 2026 Notes plus accrued but unpaid interest and any negotiated premium thereon. As a result of the note exchanges, the Company received aggregate gross proceeds of US$153,250,000 million in cash pursuant to the Offering.

Story continues

The 2026 Notes issued are subject to a customary four-month hold period under Canadian securities laws and customary United States securities laws resale restrictions. The 2026 Notes have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless the 2026 Notes are registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities of the Company in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Columbia Care

Columbia Care is one of the largest and most experienced cultivators, manufacturers and providers of cannabis products and related services, with licenses in 18 U.S. jurisdictions and the EU. Columbia Care operates 131 facilities including 99 dispensaries and 32 cultivation and manufacturing facilities, including those under development. Columbia Care is one of the original multi-state providers of medical cannabis in the U.S. and now delivers industry-leading products and services to both the medical and adult-use markets. In 2021, the company launched Cannabist, its new retail brand, creating a national dispensary network that leverages proprietary technology platforms. The company offers products spanning flower, edibles, oils and tablets, and manufactures popular brands including Seed & Strain, Triple Seven, gLeaf, Classix, Press, Amber and Platinum Label CBD. For more information on Columbia Care, please visit www.col-care.com.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). Statements concerning Columbia Cares objectives, goals, strategies, priorities, intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations and estimates, and the business, operations, financial performance and condition of Columbia Care as well as statements relating to the closing of the Offering, the exchange of existing 13% senior secured notes for 2026 Notes and the use of proceeds thereof. The words "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "intend", "may", "will", "would", "could", "should", "continue", "plan", "goal", "objective", and similar expressions and the negative of such expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words.

The purpose of forward-looking statements is to provide the reader with a description of management's expectations, and such forward-looking statements may not be appropriate for any other purpose. In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, disclosure in this press release as well as statements regarding the Company's objectives, use of proceeds, plans and goals, including future operating results and economic performance may make reference to or involve forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. A number of factors could cause actual events, performance or results to differ materially from what is projected in the forward-looking statements. No undue reliance should be placed on forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Such forward looking statements are made as of the date of this press release. Columbia Care undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. The Company's forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220202006044/en/

Contacts

Investors

Lee Evans Investor Relations

+1.212.271.0915

ir@col-care.com

Media

Lindsay Wilson Communications

+1.978.662.2038

media@col-care.com
BROOMFIELD, Colo. and WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vita Inclinata (Vita), developer and producer of helicopter and crane load stabilization and precision hardware, today announced the delivery of three Vita Load Navigator ( VLN) systems (2xVLN20 and 1xVLN40) to HOLT Crane & Equipment (HOLT). HOLT, a Texas-area distributor, will utilize the VLN systems for renting, selling, as well as helping their customers fit near-term and long-term construction requirements.

Pictured left to right: Caleb Carr (CEO of Vita Inclinata), Kyle Nape (Sales Manager at HOLT), and David Worsham (Sales Representative at HOLT)

The VLN is a remotely-operated, suspended load system that allows crane operation crews the precision control to orient their lifts without being in the critical path of the load. The system dynamically adjusts to load sizes, crane movement, and wind conditions, allowing high-precision lifts in the most challenging environments. HOLT views the VLN system as a very important tool for any type of heavy load lifting as it eliminates the use of taglines, improves the productivity of lifting and placing loads while enhancing employee safety.

"We are excited about introducing the Vita Load Navigator into the southern construction market and believe that the system will quickly prove itself in terms of safety and productivity," said Kyle Nape, Sales Manager, HOLT Crane & Equipment. "Not only is this an excellent product right now, but Vita Inclinata is also a great manufacturer who works closely with HOLT and our customers to continually improve the system in the field."

Nape also cites these additional VLN features as compelling reasons for promoting Vita's system throughout the construction industry:

Simple control over the load and stability in winds with minimal effort from the riggers/operators.

Two memory positions for ease of multi-pick operations.

Long battery life, and ease of charging.

Easy to transport from job to job.

According to Associated General Contractors of America reports, construction in Texas contributed $100.9 billion (5.3 percent) of the state's $1.9 trillion GDP in 2020. Caleb Carr, Chief Executive Officer at Vita underscores the importance of Texas and other markets that embrace HOLT services.

"As a VLN distributor, HOLT will promote our system to construction operations in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexicoareas where they have strong relationships," Carr said. "We are excited such a large construction company has embraced our system and proud that the VLN system will be promoting a higher degree of load-lifting safely throughout the south."

About HOLT Crane & Equipment

Established in 2011, HOLT Crane & Equipment is the authorized dealer for Vita Inclinata's Load Stability System in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Mexico, as well as the Magni Telescopic Handlers, and Link-Belt cranes for central, north, east and parts of Southwest Texas and Southern New Mexico. HOLT Crane & Equipment has facilities in Houston, Irving and San Antonio. In addition to selling, servicing, and carrying parts for new and used cranes, HOLT Crane & Equipment is an authorized Isuzu, Cummins, and Mitsubishi engine dealer. HOLT Crane & Equipment offers express lube service, preventative maintenance, radiator repair, welding-machining & fabrication, hydraulic service, undercarriage service and painting.

Other HOLT divisions include HOLT CAT, Texas First Rentals, HOLT Manufacturing, SITECH Tejas, HOLT Truck Centers, HOLT Renewables, HOLT Industrial Systems and HOLT Used.

HOLT is a family-owned company, headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. The Holt name has been associated with heavy equipment and Caterpillar for over 100 years. HOLT CAT Chief Executive Officer, Peter J. Holt and HOLT CAT President, Corinna Holt Richter, are direct descendants of Benjamin Holt, who in 1904 developed the first successful track-type tractor which he named the "Caterpillar." Since 1988, HOLT has embraced Values-Based Leadership to form its company culture, which has helped the HOLT name become synonymous with quality, integrity and commitment to legendary customer service

About Vita Inclinata

Vita Inclinata was founded on the belief that lack of technology should never be the difference between life and death for rescue crews, crane operators, and patients. Vita's mission of "Building technology that brings people homeevery time!" drives it to do everything possible to save human lives. It achieves that by creating innovative load stabilization technology, providing safer tools to prevent occupational injuries, and by making a positive impact on the workers, families, and patients in said industries.

Based in Broomfield, Colorado, Vita Inclinata Technologies Inc. includes Vita Aerospace and Vita Industrial. Vita Inclinata has additional offices in Washington, DC, the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates. For more information, please visit www.vitatech.co

For more information, contact:

Betsey Rogers

BridgeView Marketing

603-821-0809

[email protected]

SOURCE Vita Inclinata
Bruce Mouat and Jennifer Dodds of Team Great Britain compete against Team Canada (Getty)

Great Britain extended their winning start in the mixed curling competition at the Beijing Winter Olympics with a 6-4 win over Canada on Thursday.

Jennifer Dodds rested her last shot on top of two Canadian stones in the final end and Rachel Homans failure with an attempted take-out sealed the British win.

It was another encouraging display from Dodds and Bruce Mouat, the defending world champions, who started their campaign with victory over Sweden on Wednesday evening.

Dodds said: I think it was a step up from last nights game. We figured out the ice a bit better and it stayed the same speed through the whole game.

(PA Wire)

If you said at the start of the week that we were going to be 2-0 having played two great teams in Sweden and Canada, I think anyone in the field would take that.

Dodds and Mouat were due back in action on Thursday evening in Beijing with another tough test against Switzerland.
New Delhi: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Thursday (February 3) said that bullets were fired upon his vehicle near Chhajarsi toll plaza when he was heading to Delhi after election campaigning in Meerut's Kithaur in Uttar Pradesh.

Talking to ANI, Owaisi said, "I was leaving for Delhi after a poll event in Kithaur. 3-to 4 rounds of bullets were fired upon my vehicle by 2 people near Chhajarsi toll plaza."

"They were a total of 3-4 people. Tyres of my vehicle punctured, I left on another vehicle," he added. AIMIM chief urged the Election Commission to look into the matter and also said that he will take the issue to the parliament.

Meanwhile, the police are examining the CCTV footage and have apprehended one suspect in the matter.

Live TV
New Delhi: With Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh around the corner, parties are busy releasing their candidates' lists for 403 constituencies. From Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to Samajwadi Party (SP), parties have fielded controversial candidates, many with criminal cases lodged against them.

While parties keep taking a dig at each other over giving tickets to candidates with criminal backgrounds, almost all major parties in the fray have walked the same path. According to a public poll conducted by Zee News, 94% of those surveyed agreed that political parties keep playing the blame game and point fingers at opposition parties, refusing to look into their own track record, when it comes to giving people with criminal background tickets to contest.

Heres a list of controversial candidates fielded by political parties in UP:

BJP:

Ex-ED officer Rajeshwar Singh: The BJP has fielded former joint director of the Enforcement Directorate Rajeshwar Singh from the Sarojini Nagar constituency in Lucknow a day after he took voluntary retirement from services to enter politics. Rajeshwar Singh had investigated Karti Chidambaram and his father senior Congress leader P Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis deal case. Rajeshwar Singh has been part of the investigating teams that since 2009 probed every corruption case that rocked the UPA government and demolished the credibility of Congress and its allies. They include the 2G spectrum allocation case, the Commonwealth Games scam and the coal mines allocation scam. In each of these cases, top leaders of Congress or its allies emerged as key accused.

Congress:

Vikas Dubey's relative: Congress has given a ticket to slain gangster Vikas Dubey's relative from the Kalyanpur constituency in Kanpur. Neha Tiwari has replaced her mother Gayatri Tiwari, whose name was announced earlier by the party. Neha Tiwari is the sister of Khushi Dubey who is the wife of Amar Dubey, brother of gangster Vikas Dubey, who was killed in an encounter with the Uttar Pradesh Police.

Samajwadi Party:

Nahid Ahmed: The Samajwadi Party has announced the name of Nahid Hasan for the Kairana seat. Hasan has multiple criminal cases against him and is called the "mastermind" behind the Hindu exodus that was seen in the city. In February 2021, the UP Police had charged Tabassum Hasan, Nahid Hasan and 38 others under the Gangster Act.

Rafiq Ansari: Meerut MLA Rafiq Ansari has been again made the Samajwadi Party candidate. He too has several pending criminal cases against him and has been notorious for giving death threats to another leader of his own party. In October 2021, a court in Meerut had ordered his arrest on the complaint of a person named Bundu Khan Ansari. The complainant had alleged that MLA Rafiq Ansari had sold off his lands through forged documents and had pocketed the money.

Azam Khan: The Samajwadi Party recently declared that imprisoned Samajwadi Party MP Azam Khan would run in the forthcoming Uttar Pradesh assembly election from his home turf, Rampur. Khan is the current Lok Sabha MP from Rampur. Azam Khan, who has been booked in more than 84 cases, is still in prison. He has been granted bail in most of these cases.

Yogesh Verma: SP candidate Yogesh Verma from Hastinapur faces over 30 criminal cases. Verma was an MLA from this seat in 2007 and lost the election in 2017 as well as Bulandhshaher Lok Sabha seat in 2019.

Live TV
NEWPORT, R.I., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As the high-stakes standoff in Ukraine continues, the world is holding its breath to see whether Vladimir Putin and the Russian State are willing to invade that country despite the high costs likely to be incurred. Capable of taking a deep dive into the psyche of Putin and the Russian people and available for interview, is U.S. Brigadier General Peter B. Zwack (ret.) who not only was in the Soviet Union and Russia during the 1990s before and after the Soviet Union unraveled, but has recently published Swimming the Volga, a memoir offering cogent insights that offer context for what is happening today. He was on duty in Moscow when Russia first invaded Ukraine.

Swimming the Volga book cover Peter Zwack

Zwack has recently appeared on CNN, NPR's "All Things Considered," The BBC, MSNBC, The Washington Post and The Economist. He can go further in depth for long-form interviews. He says that Putin whose military is threateningly poised on the brink of invading Ukraine carries deep "scar tissue" from unresolved issues from the fall and break-up of the Soviet Union, 30 years ago, when the Russian people were initially filled with euphoria, only to have their hopes dashed by the emergence of internal and international challenges, the black market, major ruble devaluations, scammers, oligarchs, and hard times.

The Russian people, Zwack says, are patriotic and support their government, but not blindly. "They do not want to go to war and are likely on edge or tuning out the drumbeat of news about Ukraine," he says. "Meanwhile, Putin's desire to return Ukraine to Russian control comes from deep in his psyche."

Praise for Swimming the Volga

"Loaded with great insights and stories from his days before serving as U.S. Defense Attache in Moscow and from his deep involvement with Russia, Brigadier General Zwack brings the past alive to help us understand what Putin is doing today. It is very rare to have pages filled by someone who really knows Russia and knows how to write about it."

 the late Leslie H. Gelb, President Emeritus, Council on Foreign Relations

"One of the great joys of serving as U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation was working with General Peter Zwack. Every day, he demonstrated a deep commitment both to serving our great nation and to understanding Russia. The latter helped him do the former. Swimming the Volga* shows just how deep into Russian society, history, and culture Peter dug. Jumping from the analytic to the personal with ease, it's a brilliant story."

 Michael McFaul, U.S. Ambassador to Russia, 2012-2014

"Few Americans understand Russians better than Peter Zwack. As a traveler, student, observer and head military attache to Moscow, he has come to know them in the many aspects of their lives. This memoir ... is a sharp-eyed view of a complex, contradictory and yes, extraordinary nation."

 Robert Cowley, Founding Editor, MHQ: The Quarterly Journal of Military History

About Peter Zwack

Brigadier General Peter B. Zwack (ret.) served as a senior defense official and attache to the Russian Federation from 2012-2014. He spent 34 years as a military intelligence and Eurasian foreign area officer serving in Russia, West Germany, South Korea, Kosovo, and Afghanistan. He is a global fellow at The Kennan Institute of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars which is widely regarded as the foremost institute for advanced Russia studies in the United States.

Contact:

Terri Beavers

[email protected]; (434) 409-5687

https://peterbzwack.net

https://peterbzwack.net/swimmingthevolga

SOURCE Peter Zwack
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (1st L) arrives to attend a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 2, 2022. The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders.

The deployment includes 1,000 troops currently based in Germany to be repositioned to Romania and another 2,000 troops to be sent from the United States to Germany and Poland, John Kirby, the Defense Department's spokesman, said during a press conference at the Pentagon.

"These are not permanent moves. They are moves designed to respond to the current security environment. Moreover, these forces are not going to fight in Ukraine," Kirby said.

"These movements are unmistakable signals to the world that we stand ready to reassure our (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) allies and deter and defend against any aggression," he added.

The United States has already put some 8,500 troops on "heightened alert," in preparation for what it claimed to be an "imminent" Russian invasion of Ukraine. The measure will enable the troops to be deployed on short notice if NATO decides to activate its rapid response force known as the NRF.

Kirby said the troops being deployed are separate from those put on high alert. They will operate on a bilateral basis with their host countries, and will be under U.S. command -- not NATO command - since the alliance has yet to activate the NRF.

Repeatedly declining to say whether the deployment was in response to fears that Russia could attack a NATO country, the spokesman said the U.S. troops could be augmented by additional deployments in the coming days or months, noting that other NATO countries - including Britain, France and Denmark - have also moved to shore up the alliance's eastern flank.

President Joe Biden said Friday he "will be moving U.S. troops to Eastern Europe and the NATO countries in the near term." The president has maintained that no U.S. forces will be sent directly to Ukraine, which is not a NATO member. 

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin arrives to attend a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 2, 2022. The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin arrives to attend a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 2, 2022. The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (1st L) arrives to attend a closed-door hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 2, 2022. The United States will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department announced Wednesday, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)
OMV Petrom expects a drop in prices for gas and electricity starting with the summer of 2022, yet not at the level of past years, said, on Thursday, Franck Neel, member of the OMV Petrom Executive Board, during a press conference, Agerpres reports.

He was asked how he estimates the evolution of prices this year."It's very difficult to answer, if we look at the volatility of markets. In December, for example, we couldn't foresee the massive increase through the transport towards Europe of liquefied natural gases, which required 60 vessels. So it's very difficult to foresee, to estimate what will follow," said the Petrom official."It's difficult enough to bring large quantities of liquefied natural gas to Romania. The crisis in Ukraine has an impact on the situation on the local market and I think that Gazprom doesn't know either when the Nord Stream 2 pipeline will start exploitation," he continued.In his opinion, the prices now are very high and unsustainable from the point of view of demand."We expect a decrease in demand an a drop in the summer in the price of gas, which will have an impact on winter prices as well," Neel said."The price of electrical energy tends to follow the price of gas and carbon certificates. In what regards carbon certificates, we don't expect additional increases this year, which means that the price of energy will depend on the price of gas," the OMV Petrom representative emphasized.
Fly-halves Marcus Smith and Finn Russell go head to head in Scotlands Six Nations opener against England at Murrayfield (PA)

Scotland and England will resume international rugbys oldest rivalry when they clash in the Guinness Six Nations at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Here we examine a key battle that will help shape the outcome as playmakers Finn Russell and Marcus Smith go head to head.

Finn Russell  Racing 92

Position: Fly-half

Age: 29

Caps: 58

Debut: vs USA, 2014

Height: 60

Weight: 13st 7lbs

Points: 201 (Tries 7)

The international games most creative fly-half, Russell has the individual brilliance to single-handedly take the opposition apart.

Transformed the Lions attacking game when he came on early in the decisive final Test against South Africa last summer. Has so much range to his kicking and passing games and stands flat to the line, enhancing his effectiveness in attack.

But, for all his skills, he can be prone to making costly errors on the occasion his instincts betray him.

Marcus Smith  Harlequins

Position: Fly-half

Age: 22

Caps: 5

Debut: vs USA, 2021

Height: 56

Weight: 12st 9lbs

Points: 63 (Tries 2)

Described by England team-mate Ben Youngs as mirroring Russell in possessing a repertoire of big plays and the composure to execute them at the key moment, Smith fully justifies the hype that has accompanied his development.

While his vision and attacking skills have always stood out, the greatest improvement has been in his game management. And despite his size, he is a fighter who keeps going until the final whistle.

Where he and Russell deviate significantly, however, is in experience. Smith proved in the autumn that he belongs at this level, the challenge now is to deliver on that consistently.
Lebanon: France funds education for 900 Syrian refugee kids For quality in schooling, against corporal punishment

(ANSAmed) - NAPLES, FEBRUARY 3 - In Lebanon, about 30% of Syrian refugee children aged six to 14 do not attend school. A project promoted by the French Development Agency AFD vies to tackle the problem by promoting a project to give refugee children in the cities of Shatila and Bourj el-Barajneh an education of quality and psychological and social support.



The site of the French agency explained that public schools are overwhelmed while the low quality of education, corporal punishment and the linguistic barrier (French or English) discourage families who don't send their children to school. In Palestinian camps taken as an objective for children, which also host Syrians, the increasingly poor financial situation of families leads to child labor or forced marriages for young girls, in a context of exploitation and abuse.



The project will guarantee the wellbeing of children and teens and will boost their resilience by offering educational and professional perspectives while providing support through recreational activities and individual protection, organizers said.



Services are already active in Shatila, where they will be boosted, while new activities will be implemented in Bourj el-Barajneh to meet all needs.



Actors involved in the initiative include Asmae, a French NGO created in 1980 by sister Emmanuelle, already present in six countries (Egypt, Lebanon, the Philippines,Madagascar, Burkina Faso and France), and which aims to help vulnerable children through tailor-made support provided by local actors.



Other partners are Basmeh & Zeitooneh, created in 2012 by Syrian volunteers in Lebanon; Jafra, with over 15 years of experience with Palestinians in Syria.



Overall, 900 children will have access to quality services, 1,990 children to protection services and 1,200 parents to information. Particular attention will be reserved to respect for genders and children with disabilities. (ANSAmed)
PRESS RELEASE  The Vulcan to the Sky (VTTS) charity has been unable to meet the fundraising deadline to raise the 2.2m needed to progress plans to build The Vulcan Experience at Doncaster Sheffield Airport. Michael Trotter, development director at the Trust said: It is with a heavy heart that we have announced that our plans for The Vulcan Experience will not be going ahead as we had hoped due to a fundraising shortfall. We were unable to meet the fundraising deadline of December 31, 2021, to raise the money needed to build the hangar as a result we are unable to meet the terms of a lease for the land at Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

This is obviously a huge blow to The Vulcan to the Sky Trust, as a charity, we have had big ambitions since XH558 was grounded to create the kind of inspirational home we believe this iconic aircraft deserves. Trotter continued Our time in a hangar here at DSA proved that the appetite was there for people to visit XH558 in a visitor setting and when our lease expired in 2017, we set about plans to build our own space. Sadly, the 2.2m needed to enable us to progress a mortgage to build The Vulcan Experience was not reached as we had agreed, and we acknowledge the airport has been more than patient in holding the availability of land for many years on the premise funding would be secured to complete a lease.

People who donated to Operation Safeguard continue to benefit from Guardian Membership for 12 months and the offer of a name permanently displayed under the wing of the iconic Vulcan XH558. Donors also received either a sample set of genuine Avro/ Hawker Siddeley Aviation fasteners or reproduction of Vulcan XH558s Aircraft Identification Plate depending on the level of donation.

Michael added We are currently considering the implications for donors of being unable to complete the fundraising campaign and we will be in touch with all those who have donated shortly. to discuss the position including their final recognition of names under XH558s DeltaYou will appreciate that this is a difficult time, and we will update donors further as soon as we are able. We are obviously devastated to not be in a position to build the visitor attraction we dreamed of but we will continue with our education outreach work that is currently live across the region and will look for ways to continue to inspire future generations of engineers and STEM specialists. XH558 will continue to be looked after and be maintained to the high standards she has been kept at through her flying years and after. In keeping her at these high standards we are able to demonstrate her at events and tell her story to all who visit.

This is now a period of reflection for us as a charity as we consider how we continue to provide the best we can for our supporters working with Doncaster Sheffield Airport explained Trotter.





Vulcan XH558 is the last flying example of a large, all-British jet from that exciting period when British aviation was the envy of the world. The first flight of a Vulcan in 1952 was only 11 years after the first flight of her predecessor, the Avro Lancaster, yet the step in technology was immense. Initially designed to carry Britains strategic nuclear deterrent, Vulcans eventually moved into a wide variety of roles ranging from tactical deterrent to reconnaissance. They saw active service only during the Falklands Conflict in 1982 when Vulcan XM607, captained by Martin Withers, embarked on the now-legendary mission to disable the runway at Port Stanley. Martin was the chief pilot with Vulcan to the Sky Trust.

Since leaving the Avro factory in 1960, Vulcan XH558 has led a charmed life. Thanks to a series of coincidences, she has been flying for far longer than anyone could have expected. Since her return to flight in 2007, following what is widely regarded as the most complex aviation heritage project ever undertaken, she has been maintained by a professional team of ex-RAF engineers and technicians using the same procedures and quality standards that they employed during their RAF service. The considerable funding required to allow this complex operation has been provided largely by the aircrafts passionate and generous supporters, many of whom also devote their spare time to the project.

To continue supporting the Vulcan to the Sky Trust , visit www.vulcantothesky.org
Oxitec, the leading developer of biological pest control solutions, announced that it is pursuing approval by federal and state regulators to implement two pilot projects in the US and is building a new R&D facility in California .

. In Florida , Oxitec has been invited by its partner, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District, to continue its landmark pilot project in the Florida Keys.

, Oxitec has been invited by its partner, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District, to continue its landmark pilot project in the Florida Keys. In California , Oxitec is preparing to submit a research request to carry out a pilot project, which is anticipated to be in the city of Visalia , northern Tulare County , in partnership with the Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District.

, Oxitec is preparing to submit a research request to carry out a pilot project, which is anticipated to be in the city of , northern , in partnership with the Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District. Oxitec's biological insect control technology is proven to safely control the invasive, disease transmitting Aedes aegypti mosquito species which has been detected in Florida , California and other states in the US.

OXFORD, United Kingdom, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Oxitec, the leading developer of biological pest control solutions, announced its expansion plans for its Aedes aegypti program in the US.

In Florida, where the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved a landmark pilot project in 2021, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) and Oxitec announced the continuation of their collaboration into 2022, pending further approvals from the EPA and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

In California, Oxitec is preparing a request for a research authorization to launch a project, anticipated to be in northern Tulare County, in the City of Visalia. Pending EPA approval, Oxitec will submit a formal application which will be reviewed by California's Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR). The DPR's review will include a scientific evaluation of Oxitec's Aedes aegypti technology and will include opportunities for the public to engage and review the results of the state's evaluations.

In anticipation of this research approval, the Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District (Delta MVCD) seven-member elected Board of Trustees issued a unanimous vote of approval in October 2021 to partner with Oxitec to carry out focused projects in areas that are part of the Delta MVCD's jurisdiction.

Oxitec is also developing an R&D facility in Visalia, which will provide support to Oxitec programs in the US and globally.

In its published approval of Oxitec's 2021 Florida pilot for this technology, the EPA cited the technology as safe for humans and the environment (EPA's published announcement).

As it does around the world, Oxitec will work hand-in-hand with its government partners in Florida and California as well as with residents, communities, civic groups, non-profits, businesses, and many other stakeholders who will guide, shape, or contribute to the projects. Oxitec also carries out extensive public engagement efforts, ensuring that each project benefits from broad participation, local leadership, inclusive outreach and education, and opportunities for learning and sharing feedback. These two additional pilot projects will help contribute to Oxitec's application to the EPA for commercial approval of this technology.

An invasive mosquito species to both Florida and California, Aedes aegypti has the ability to transmit mosquito-borne diseases such as yellow fever, dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and animal heartworm, and continues to spread through the state of California and across the US. Aedes aegypti was first detected in California in 2013 and has spread rapidly to 22 counties since then.

Grey Frandsen, CEO of Oxitec, said: "Our growth in the US is based on our strong partnerships with two outstanding local government agencies and with a large and diverse coalition of stakeholders  from residents who participate in our pilot projects to conservation organizations, small businesses, scientists and teachers, community leaders, and more - who have supported our efforts to bring our safe and effective technology to the US. We're thankful to our partners and to the communities that have enthusiastically embraced us and look forward to getting to work this year."

Andrea Leal, Executive Director of the FKMCD, commented: "After a successful start to our project in 2021, we look forward to continuing our partnership with Oxitec. We made significant progress during the pilot project last year, we look forward to continuing this important work during this year's mosquito season."

Dr Mustapha Debboun, General Manager of the Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District said: "With mosquito and vector-borne diseases a growing concern in California, we see Oxitec's technology as an important additional option to control the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito. We look forward to working in partnership with Oxitec and have been impressed with results from their previous projects in Brazil and the Florida Keys. They have proven the effectiveness that their biological solution can deliver in suppressing this non-native invasive and disease-spreading mosquito."

Oxitec Virtual Press Room

Notes for the media.

About Oxitec's Aedes aegypti technology:

Oxitec's non-biting male mosquito was designed to control invasive, disease spreading Aedes aegypti. It has successfully provided significant suppression of the Aedes aegypti in other geographies and does not persist in the environment or cause harm to beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.

This technology also removes all requirements for adult mosquito-rearing and releases and eliminates the potential for female releases. Combined with other innovations, this technology is anticipated to reduce up to 90% of costs associated with traditional insect release programs.

Similar projects in the Brazilian city of Indaiatuba found that Oxitec's male mosquito suppressed disease-carrying Aedes aegypti by up to 95%[1] in urban, dengue-prone environments following just 13 weeks of treatment, as compared to untreated control sites in the same city.

About Oxitec

Oxitec is the leading developer of biological solutions to control pests that transmit diseases, destroy crops and harm livestock. Founded in 2002 at the University of Oxford, Oxitec is led by a passionate team comprised of 15 nationalities and is supported by world-class partners.

Learn more at oxitec.com .

[1] 95% was the high 2-week rolling average and the individual weekly high was 98%; the highest 4-week rolling average was 92%.

SOURCE Oxitec
A veteran plumber has been awarded 25,000 after bosses dubbed him 'Half-dead Dave' because of his age.

David Robson, who was 69 at the time, was regularly called by the 'derogatory' nickname by colleagues working on site in the Isle of Wight, before his bosses then also began using it, an employment tribunal heard.

They claimed it was simply 'banter' but the tribunal heard it left Mr Robson feeling 'saddened and embarrassed'.

He later lost his job when the company selected him for redundancy following a points-scoring system which rated him as lower than other staff.

However, the tribunal ruled the system was unfair and there was 'no justification' for the low scores awarded to Mr Robson, now 71.

It also said his 'Half-dead' nickname proved that his status as the oldest employee at the firm had influenced their decision to sack him.

Bosses argued the nickname was used years before his sacking - and said they more often referred to him as 'Disco Dave' instead.

But the tribunal ruled Mr Robson had been both discriminated against due to his age and unfairly sacked, and awarded him 25,000 in compensation - 7,000 of which was awarded purely for the 'name-calling'.

A veteran plumber has been awarded 25,000 after bosses dubbed him 'Half-dead Dave' because of his age (stock image)

The tribunal heard he first qualified as a plumber 55 years ago, and had worked for Clarke's Mechanical Ltd as a 'plumber/pipefitter' for eight years before being dismissed

The tribunal heard he first qualified as a plumber 55 years ago, and had worked for Clarke's Mechanical Ltd as a 'plumber/pipefitter' for eight years before being dismissed.

Mr Robson was the 'oldest skilled worker' out of 'some 17 gas engineers/plumbers' at the firm in Cowes on the Isle of Wight.

In January 2020, he was told he was to be made redundant due to a 'downturn in workload'. He was the first worker of three to be dismissed, and was awarded 6,300 in redundancy pay.

Mr Robson appealed the decision, asking his company to explain the selection process and questioning whether his age had been a factor.

The scoring system supposedly used to select redundancy candidates was later sent to Mr Robson, which he complained had been 'fabricated'.

He received a score of 28, which was low given his experience and expertise.. His score for 'Performance' was the lowest other than that of a junior trainee.

The tribunal also heard Mr Robson was nicknamed 'Half-dead Dave' on site, and that the name was also used by his supervisors and bosses.

During one incident in 2015, his supervisor Lee Pitman admitted using the nickname when telling another worker, Tom Fox, to take equipment to Mr Robson.

Mr Pitman told the tribunal: 'I think I [gave] Tom something to give to him and I said, 'Give that to Dave'.

'I think Tom hadn't worked with Dave and he said 'Who's Dave?', and I said Half-dead Dave because that is what I thought they all called him on site.'

The tribunal heard Mr Fox then handed Mr Robson the plumbing fittings saying, 'Here you are, Half-dead'.

Mr Robson asked who had called him that and was told it was Mr Pitman - who insisted there was 'no malice' in his using the nickname and told the tribunal 'it was just banter'.

But Mr Robson told the tribunal: 'It was saddening. To me, the most saddening thing was that the term originated from a member of the management. It came from him [Mr Pitman].

'I also had a nickname of Disco Dave but he didn't use that. When we [came] to the end of all this and my daughter sat me down and said, 'can we go through everything', she was upset... You would be.

'To the end of my employment I was regularly referred to as Half-dead Dave. Lee Pitman called me that - he thought it was rather amusing.

'Half-dead, what, because I am old? It wasn't easy to sit and explain to my family.

The plumber lost his job when the company selected him for redundancy following a points-scoring system which rated him as lower than other staff. But the tribunal ruled the system was unfair and there was 'no justification' for the low scores awarded (stock image)

'I didn't ask colleagues [to stop using the name]. I just thought, 'Only a few years left at work, let's just put up with it'. I didn't want the distress of it all.'

Mr Robson took Clarke's to an employment tribunal in Bristol, complaining he had been unfairly dismissed and discriminated against on grounds of age.

Employment Judge Martha Felicity Street ruled he had been discriminated against because of his age 'plain and simple'.

She said: '[The nickname] caused detriment. Mr Robson put up with it, but he did not like it, he was uncomfortable and saddened and embarrassed.

'In respect of the name-calling, Half-Dead Dave, the majority of the Tribunal award a further 7,000.

'That reflects the long-standing use of the name and its frankly derogatory reference to his age.

'Mr Robson did not talk up his distress, but it was plain that he was distressed and embarrassed, distressed too when he was compelled to tell his family; it became the more painful on becoming known.

'It affected his confidence, it made him the more anxious for his job, in an environment where that conduct went without comment. He felt dealt with unfairly and felt unable to address it.

'This was discrimination on the grounds of age, plain and simple. Discrimination of any form is not just banter. That is accepted across society at large.'

Mr Robson won both his claims and was awarded 24,926.14 in compensation - including 7,000 due to hurt caused by his given nickname.

Adrian Baker Regional Organiser of the GMB trade union which supported Mr Robson's case said: 'UK Employment law is there for us all to respect and Isle of Wight employers are no exception.

'GMB continually sees members across the Isle of Wight coming to us for support on a range of matters.

'However, it would sometimes appear that there is a greater prevalence on the Island than elsewhere for employers, who simply wish to ignore UK employment law and the good advice given by GMB, to instead replace this with some form of local approach.'
The National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi has taken a swipe at the President Akufo-Addo government, accusing the administration of tyranny.

This is contained in a statement on the Facebook page of the NDC firebrand following Onua FM's presenter Captain Smart detention in the National Security custody on Wednesday after he had been granted bail by the Accra Circuit Court 6.

According to Sammy Gyamfi, it is disgraceful and sickening how President Akufo-Addo's administration continues to oppress persons critical of his government.

Yesterday, Captain Smart was arraigned before Circuit Court 6 in Accra, by National Security Operatives and the Ghana Police service on some trumped-up charges. The Court in its wisdom granted Captain Smart bail. And he and his lawyers satisfied all the bail conditions yesterday.

Sadly but unsurprisingly, the autocratic and despotic Akufo-Addo regime has refused to release Captain Smart from Police Custody. Captain was detained yesterday by National Security. As we speak his location is unknown to his lawyers, family, and employer.

This governments penchant for oppressing and suppressing persons critical of them including journalists is disgraceful and sickening. When will this tyranny stop? #ReleaseCaptainSmartNow, the statement from Sammy Gyamfi reads.

Captain Smart has been dragged to court and charged with two different counts of extortion.

The charges according to the prosecution led by Detective Inspector Frederick Sarpong, are in relation to 23rd December 2021 and 12th January 2022 incidents where he allegedly extorted $10,000 and GHS50,000 from one Ahmed Kwabena Nkrumah, a businessman.
Rishi Sunak today repeatedly refused to rule out running for the Tory leadership if Boris Johnson is ousted over the Partygate scandal as he insisted the PM always tells him the truth.

The Chancellor said being the next prime minister is 'not what I'm focused on' as he labelled talk of a contest a 'hypothetical situation'.

However, in comments which will fuel speculation that Mr Sunak does have leadership ambitions, he said it is 'very kind' of some Tory MPs to tip him as the frontrunner.

Mr Sunak said the PM 'has my full support' as he admitted the Partygate row has damaged public confidence in the Government.

The Chancellor was asked if he believed the PM always told him the truth and he replied: 'Yes of course he does. He's the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.'

Rishi Sunak today insisted Boris Johnson always tells him the truth as he repeatedly refused to rule out running for the Tory leadership if the PM is ousted over the Partygate scandal

The Chancellor said being the next prime minister is 'not what I'm focused on' as he labelled talk of a contest a 'hypothetical situation'

Seven Tory MPs have publicly confirmed they have submitted letters of no confidence in Mr Johnson to Sir Graham Brady, the chairman of the 1922 Committee.

But the true figure is thought to be several times that as most MPs do not reveal their intentions.

A formal confidence vote is triggered if Sir Graham receives 54 letters, equivalent to 15 per cent of the parliamentary party.

Mr Sunak was asked during an interview with the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg if he would run to replace Mr Johnson should the PM be forced out.

The Chancellor replied: 'No that's that's not what I'm focused on...'

Pushed again on if he would run and told that some of his Tory colleagues want him to, Mr Sunak said: 'Well, that's very kind of them, to suggest that.

'But what I think people want from me and what your viewers will want from me is to focus on my job.'

Ms Kuenssberg said the question of the next Tory leader is 'no longer a hypothetical situation' because MPs are publicly pushing for a vote of no confidence in Mr Johnson.

Asked if he would rule out running to replace the PM, he replied: 'Again, I think it is a hypothetical situation.'

He added: 'No, it is Laura, I mean, I know a few of my colleagues have said that and they'll have their reasons for doing that.

'But you know, I don't think that's the situation we're in. The Prime Minister has my full support.

'And what people want from me is to be getting on with my job, which is what I'm doing.

Mr Sunak was grilled on the Partygate scandal and was asked if he believes Mr Johnson always tells the truth.

He replied: 'Yes of course he does. He's the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.'

Asked if he believed Mr Johnson always told him the '100 per cent truth', the Chancellor said: 'Yeah of course he does. He's the Prime Minister, I support him and we work hard delivering on the things that we were elected to do.'

Mr Sunak was asked if he believed the Partygate row had damaged the public's confidence in the Government.

Seven Tory MPs have publicly confirmed they have submitted letters of no confidence in Mr Johnson

A formal confidence vote is triggered if Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee, receives 54 letters, equivalent to 15 per cent of the parliamentary party

He said: 'Yes, I think it has. And, you know, I can appreciate people's frustration. And I think it's now the job of all of us in government all politicians to restore people's trust.'

Mr Sunak also acknowledged he was in the Cabinet Room when No 10 staff held a birthday gathering for Mr Johnson, but the Chancellor declined to say what happened.

The event on June 19, 2020 is one of 12 such gatherings in Downing Street and Whitehall currently under investigation by the Metropolitan Police.

Mr Sunak told the BBC he had been there for a meeting to discuss the Covid-19 situation.

'I am in the Cabinet Room for a Covid meeting much like the other 100, 200, God knows how many other Covid meetings,' he said.

'You're asking me about something that happened almost two years ago. I went to that Cabinet Room, as I did many other times for Covid meetings. And it's right, that we allow this police investigation.'
It was at Clarkson Czech Days many years ago that Doris Ahrens found what would soon become a several decades-long hobby.

Over the past 30 years, this Schuyler woman has had more than 100 miniature donkeys. According to Ahrens, a donkey must be 36 inches or shorter to be considered a miniature. They can live 25 to 30 years if taken care of properly. They can weigh anywhere from 250 to 450 pounds. She noted she likes the animals mainly for their size.

Ahrens ended up getting her own miniature donkeys from Iowa.

I got three of them, two jennies and a jack, Ahrens said. The jennies are the girls and the boys are the jacks.

Once she had some miniature donkeys, she wanted more. Ahrens miniature donkeys can be seen at parades and area nursing homes. Last year, she and her donkeys visited five nursing homes  ones in Clarkson, David City, Dodge and Columbus.

Ahrens, whos turning 80 this year, looks back fondly on the times shes taken her donkeys to nursing homes. One time, she noted, one of the donkeys didnt want to be loaded into the trailer and sat on someones lap the entire way to David City. Another time she brought a young donkey to a nursing facility in Dodge.

I took the baby in there and of course it wasn't used to a slick floor. It was just sliding all over and they were laughing so hard, Ahrens said with a chuckle.

The donkey visits brighten up the nursing facility residents day, noted Clarkson Community Care Center Activities Director Jean Teply. Ahrens has been visiting the Clarkson facility for many years.

They loved Doris' personality, number one. She always creates laughter and enjoyment in every one of her visits. She's a very fun person, Teply said. (She) definitely bring smiles to their faces and they enjoy seeing the animals plus her she brings joy to their day.

Ahrens has had a variety of animals, including a llama, that she would also bring to nursing homes.

These days Ahrens has five miniature donkeys  one jack and four jennies  that she keeps on land she owns right outside of city limits. She lives in the country separately from the donkeys. Ahrens noted the donkeys are safer on the other property because of a sharp drop of ground at her other land.

She also sells donkeys. Shes sold miniature donkeys all over, including California and Canada.

The donkeys are quite fond of cheese balls, or anything with a good crunch such as potato chips, cookies and bread. They also eat softer food as well, including one of her current donkeys.

When they brought up Penelope, they brought me these Little Debbie cakes you can buy, they were little Christmas trees, Ahrens said. She had it every day, she'd eat a Christmas tree.

Those who look at the backs of the miniature donkeys may notice cross-like markings, which Ahrens will often tell the story of to children.

When Jesus was crucified, the donkeys took Jesus to the cross and they couldn't stand to see Jesus hanging so as they turned their backs; the sun cast the shadow on their backs, she said.

Ahrens often has neighboring children coming over to her land to see and feed the donkeys. They have also helped her take the animals to nursing homes.

We'd have parties here  all the little neighbor kids would come but right now with the virus is kind of a shame, she added.

Ahrens currently has another unique pet  a young raccoon she has named Betsy. The raccoon will come up to her house and she feeds it crackers and peanut butter. Ahrens also has outdoor cats.

Area residents may recognize Ahrens from her work as a hair stylist, which shes been doing for 62 years. She previously owned a beauty shop in Schuyler for 57 years before moving next door. She works at Ultimate Image a few days a week, including Friday and Saturday mornings. Ahrens noted she doesnt have plans to retire, not in her career or with her animals.

Saturday morning I have to be to work at 7:30, so I come here early, Ahrens said. I feed the donkeys and then I feed the neighbor's cats and my cats and Betsy the coon.
New Delhi: Bollywood's most hip couple Genelia Deshmukh and Riteish Deshmukh celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary on Thursday (February 3). The cute couple took to Instagram to share mushy posts for each other which are absolute couple goals!

Genelia Deshmukh shared BTS moments from their first project 'Vedd' as Riteish as the director and her as the actress.

Along with the video, she wrote, "10years is definitely a milestone and knowing me, today would be just the 2 of us leaving town, celebrating, dancing, dining and endless hugs. But with tight schedules and work taking the better of us, I realise, what is the true meaning of celebrating- You directing for the first time and I get to be part of it, me acting after 10 years and you are part of it and together we put our sweat and blood and life into something we chose together and if this isnt a celebration then what else is?."

She added, "Weve been partners in love, partnering parents, business partners and Thank God for #Vedd where we get to be partners who help each other, build dreams and try and fulfill it together. I will celebrate you everyday and ya the endless hugs will still stay on - you definitely cant escape that part. Happy Anniversary."

Take a look at her post:

Riteish also shared a post for her, sharing monochrome pictures of the couple on the beach.

Being the romantic that he is, he also shared a sweet note for Genelia. He wrote, "Being with you is the greatest blessing of my life. Sharing laughter, tears, joy, struggles, fears, happiness, we have walked these miles holding each others hands, a step at a time. With you by my side I feel I could do anything. Thank you for being you. Happy 10th Anniversary Baiko. I love you."

Check out his post:

Along with life partners, the two are business partners as well as they are the co-founders of the startup Imagine Meats which aims to provide plant-based meat products to people. Many celebs such as Shah Rukh Khan and Alia Bhatt have endorsed their products on social media.

On the personal front, the couple tied the knots on February 3, 2012, according to Marathi traditions in a Hindu wedding ceremony, which was followed by a Christian wedding in a church.

They are blessed with two kids - Riaan and Rahyl.
Boris Johnson was showing no sign of bowing to the growing calls from Tory MPs to resign as Downing Street is investigated by police over allegations of lockdown-breaching parties.

Three more Tory MPs withdrew their support on Wednesday, starting with senior Conservative Tobias Ellwood who said he had submitted a formal letter calling for a vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister.

Anthony Mangnall, who entered Parliament in 2019, followed by criticising Mr Johnsons actions and mistruths as he said he had also submitted his demand to the 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers.

I have today submitted a letter of no confidence in the Prime Minister and you can read my short statement about this on my website and Facebook page: https://t.co/zog9vupPrh  Gary Streeter MP (@garystreeterSWD) February 2, 2022

Then came long-standing MP Sir Gary Streeter, who said he had taken the same step because he cannot reconcile the pain and sacrifice of the vast majority of the public with the attitude and activities of those in Downing Street.

But the Sun newspaper reported that Mr Johnson rejected calls to resign and indicated he would run again at the next general election in 2024, saying in an interview on Wednesday that he is focussed on the next election.

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries, who is fiercely loyal to the PM, described the rebel Tories as selfish, attempting to dismiss them as a handful of egos who want to make it all about them.

The defining mission of the PM & this government is to level up the whole of the UK. On the very day we are setting out steps to make this happen, a handful of egos want to make it all about them. It's selfish, doing Labours work and its really not helping their constituents. https://t.co/MbY1q0HHyj  Nadine Dorries (@NadineDorries) February 2, 2022

But the trickle of letters to 1922 Committee chairman Sir Graham Brady came as reports suggested the Prime Minister attended more of the gatherings being investigated by police than previously thought.

The Daily Telegraph reported Mr Johnson was seen heading up to his Downing Street flat on the night it hosted a gathering which is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police.

The Prime Minister is also said to have spoken at two more leaving dos at the centre of Scotland Yard inquiries.

Dominic Cummings has accused Boris Johnson of lying (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

At Prime Ministers Questions, Mr Johnson again refused to say whether he had been at the alleged party in his flat, telling MPs the process must go on.

Downing Street told reporters that Metropolitan Police officers have not yet contacted the Prime Minister about a potential police interview, but Conservative anger has grown since the publication of Sue Grays pared back but still damning report into partygate.

Mr Ellwood, a former minister who chairs the Commons Defence Committee, used an interview on Wednesday to publicly state he has lost confidence in Mr Johnson.

This is just horrible for all MPs to continuously have to defend this to the British public, he told Sky News.

I dont think the Prime Minister realises how worried colleagues are in every corner of the party, backbenchers and ministers alike, that this is all only going one way and will invariably slide towards a very ugly place.

Mr Mangnall, who represents Totnes, joined the rebel ranks on Wednesday afternoon, tweeting: Standards in public life matter. At this time I can no longer support the PM.

Standards in public life matter. At this time I can no longer support the PM. His actions and mistruths are overshadowing the extraordinary work of so many excellent ministers and colleagues. I have submitted a letter of no confidence.  Anthony Mangnall MP (@AnthonyMangnal1) February 2, 2022

South West Devon MP Sir Gary, who first entered the Commons in 1992, said he had made his decision following Ms Grays initial assessment in her update published on Monday.

I cannot reconcile the pain and sacrifice of the vast majority of the British Public during lockdown with the attitude and activities of those working in Downing Street, he said.

Not only do the two latest MPs to rebel both represent Devon seats, but neither are seen as being among the usual suspects who might agitate for the removal of Mr Johnson.

The acts of defiance mean 13 Conservatives have publicly called for his resignation, though more are believed to have done so privately.

A confidence vote will be triggered if Sir Graham receives 54 letters, 15% of the parliamentary party, calling for a poll.

On Monday, Ms Gray revealed there were 12 events between 2020 and 2021 being investigated by police.

The senior civil servant was unable to publish her full findings because of the Met inquiry but Mr Johnson is now believed to have been present during at least six of the gatherings under investigation.
Maybe it was the pandemic, or growing concerns about the environment, or a bit of both, but one things certain: People are doing a lot more secondhand shopping these days.

Secondhand clothing is one of the fastest growing sectors in the global fashion marketplace, as consumers seek out affordable, eco-friendly alternatives to fast fashion. Even celebrities are picking preowned looks for red carpet appearances.

A 2021 report from the resale platform ThredUp and the analytics firm GlobalData projected that used clothing sales would rise to nearly $77 billion by 2025 from $36 billion this year.

Much of that activity is happening online, on resale sites like Etsy, eBay and Grailed. Spend enough time on any of them, and you may find that a surprisingly large number of sellers are operating in South Asia, and Malaysia in particular.

Weve all just noticed this, especially when were shopping on Etsy, said Rachel Tashjian, the fashion critic at GQ.

I was looking for an Agnes B. cardigan, and all of them were from Malaysia, said Sarah Brown, a designer for a jewelry company in the New York City borough of Manhattan.

The concentration of Malaysian storefronts has caused some shoppers to wonder: Why?

For the sellers, the answer is obvious: Supply and demand.

Bundles and Bundles of Discards

Secondhand shopping  also known as bundle shopping  is popular in Malaysia. There are thrift stores across the country, ranging from tiny roadside stalls to vast warehouses run by corporate chains. One such company is Jalan Jalan Japan, an importer of Japanese items that operates eight stores in the country, and Family Bundle, a chain with numerous outlets in Kuala Lumpur.

Over the past decade, theres been a tremendous rise in doing this kind of shopping, and its quite fascinating, said Naim Azhar, 28, who works at a cybersecurity company in Kuala Lumpur. In 2019, he went viral locally for his luxury fashion bought from thrift stores.

I spent hours and hours just diving into the pool of unwanted clothes, and I found a lot of cool trench coats, like a Burberry trench coat, he said in a Zoom interview. Most of his designer finds cost the standard rate for an item of used clothing in the country: 1 ringgit, or about 25 cents. Online, such pieces could easily fetch between $20 and $60 from American secondhand shoppers; rare and collectible items can go for well north of $500. But most Malaysians dont shop to sell. They do it for the love of clothes.

The term bundle refers to the large bales that local merchants buy from wholesalers. Selam bundle, which translates as diving into bundles of clothing, is used to describe thrift culture.

Amirul Ruslan, 21, a musician in Kuala Lumpur, said in a Zoom interview that Malaysian thrift stores sometimes turn the opening of large bundles into an event. Its quite literally one guy climbing on top and tearing it open with a knife, and just like pulling stuff out, he said, and people start diving into it, seeing what they like. He especially loves shops that dont have any social media presence, barely have a Google Maps location.

Recently, Ruslan brought a reporter on a shopping tour, stopping first at a Family Bundle outlet in Kuala Lumpurs Chinatown. On the racks were Japanese brands like Edwin, as well as Adidas, Nike and Levis. The cheapest items cost around $1; the most expensive, $23.

Up next was Ruslans favorite roadside stall, Maxstation. Situated in a working-class neighborhood, it consists of four canopy tents with walls made of recycled tarpaulin. A pair of kittens mewed in the corner, and a rabbit sat in a cage on the counter.

Just a few months earlier, Ruslan showed up to the shop to find a crowd gathered outside: Maxstation was burning down.

Its proprietor, Nor Muhamad Mat Nor, 34, is still not sure what happened. Nobody was in there and theres no clues from firefighter forensics, he wrote in a message on WhatsApp. Ultimately, though, the local market is less profitable for him than his business selling designer clothes overseas on Grailed.

Im doing this almost 10 years, with passion, he wrote.

The American Market

Muhamad got started selling clothing locally after noticing demand for vintage clothing and band T-shirts. He began selling overseas in 2017, and his physical stall followed three years later. Today, he said, he sells about 10-15 items online per month; some of his most profitable sales have been items from Japanese fashion brands: Comme des Garcons, Yohji Yamamoto and Kapital.

Muhamad spends about three hours a day looking for clothes. He buys in bulk from a wholesale outlet that sells bales of clothes from overseas. He prefers American and Japanese clothing, he wrote, because of the high chance to get the good items.

A single high-quality find priced at $100 or more can pay for an entire bale of clothing, he said. He sells the rest locally.

To follow the whims of U.S. consumers, he does simple research with media and magazines, he said, and keeps up with fashionable figures like Kanye West, Vivienne Westwood and Malaysian influencer Wak Doyok. Done correctly, Muhamad wrote, this thing is good business actually.

After the fire in October, he was able to rebuild, and in December the store reopened. On a reporters visit in January, Muhamad wore shorts and a denim apron, ready to open and sort through a handful of wholesale bundles containing 300-400 pieces of clothing each.

It takes me about an hour to sort out these items. I look at each piece thoroughly, inspecting the threads, the sewing, the zip and if its of a valuable brand, he said, as he cut open a bag and sifted for sartorial gold with the help of his wife, Mariati Muhamad.

Johnbull, this is a valuable brand from Japan, so this is something I would list online on Grailed, he said, holding up the label of a vintage leather varsity jacket.

When Muhamads store went up in flames, he lost nearly $10,000 worth of merchandise, including a Barbour jacket hed listed on Grailed for $180 and a Bape jacket, for $590.

I had sorted all my high-value items to be listed online for sale, so I had them kept in the store, he said. But its all gone in the fire.

Do You Know Where Your Donation Is Going?

Most people who donate old clothes assume their garments final destination is the racks of Goodwill and Salvation Army, where they might find a second life. However, according to Adam Minter, the author of Secondhand: Travels in the New Global Garage Sale, thrift stores are often just the first stop on a circuitous international journey.

Only about one-third of the stuff that is put on the shelves of an American thrift store actually sells, said Minter, who has a home in Malaysia but lives in Minnesota. The thrift stores sell the excess clothing to bulk clothing exporters, which then ship it around the world: Your clothing in Fremont, California, could be sent by truck or rail to Houston, where its sorted for Pakistan and India and Malaysia, he said.

There, sellers can buy them cheaply and list them online. You buy the bale, you bring it back to the shop, you break it open, and you know, maybe if youre lucky, theres a good piece of designer clothing in there that didnt make it through the screen at the thrift store and the sorting warehouse in Mississauga, Minter said.

Nowadays, a given clothing item  say, a Nike hoodie  may be made in a factory in Taiwan or Bangladesh, sold to the United States, donated to Goodwill, shipped in a bale to Malaysia, and then sold back to the U.S. on Etsy. Its simple arbitrage: Buyers in developed countries will pay a lot more for name brands than they cost in the developing world, where wholesalers typically sell huge quantities of merchandise priced by the kilogram.

According to the Observatory for Economic Complexity, which tracks international trade, the largest exporter of used clothing in 2019 (the most recent year for which data is available) was the United States, where exports totaled $720 million. The top importers were Ukraine ($203 million), Pakistan ($189 million), Ghana ($168 million) and Kenya ($165 million). Malaysias imports totaled $105 million.

In some countries, especially in East Africa, secondhand clothing from the West makes up a majority of all clothing sold. Although people often characterize America as dumping unwanted clothes on less affluent countries, Minter emphasized that the reality is more complicated: Clothes are being bought by people in those countries.

They want them, he said. There are wholesalers buying in these places, and then distributing them.

Still, this industry is not without friction. In 2015, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South-Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda jointly announced that they would ban incoming clothing by 2019 in order to protect their homegrown garment industries. The used clothes coming in were just too cheap.

A U.S. trade organization called SMART, the Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles Association, said the ban on imported clothes could cost 40,000 American jobs and $124 million in exports. In response, the Trump administration threatened to raise tariffs on imports from those countries, and all of them except for Rwanda backed down.

Whether people are able to sell secondhand clothing internationally depends on the state of their countrys shipping logistics.

Some of the poor countries where youll see bales of clothes going in, you know, there just isnt the infrastructure, Minter said. If a bale of clothes ends up in, say, northern Nigeria, and its got a really great pair of Levis in it, somebody in northern Nigeria is probably not going to try and sell that via Etsy. The logistics arent there.

But in places like Kenya and in Malaysia, he continued, the logistics are there. The familiarity with e-commerce is there. You have a fairly globalized population.

Minter noted that Malaysia is one of many countries  including Thailand, Indonesia, Ukraine and Latvia  taking part in this trade.

Malaysia, he said, has a population thats savvy to global fashion trends and has the disposable income to do this kind of business. The World Bank projects that Malaysia will transition from a middle- to high-income country in the next two to six years.

The country also has a long history as a manufacturing base for companies like Dell and Intel, which ship huge amounts of products to America. Theres also its proximity to Japan, which exports rare and highly desirable merchandise to the region; most used clothing that ends up in Malaysia comes from Japan originally.

Ive noticed a lot of pieces on eBay and Etsy by Vivienne Westwood and Jean Paul Gaultier from Malaysia and Thailand, Collin James, a founder of the Manhattan vintage store James Veloria, wrote in an email. Both had a lot of pieces produced solely for the Japanese market in the 1990s and early 2000s with interesting prints and designs that werent released for European and American markets.

Julian Neo, the managing director of DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei, wrote in an email statement that the shipping company has over 260 vintage clothing sellers shipping from Malaysia to the U.S.

Since 2013, we have seen the number of vintage clothing customers growing each year, he wrote.

Yoppy Ardiyanto, an Indonesian seller from Bandung City, said, In my country, and also, I think, in many, many other countries, they are already seeing this business is a big opportunity. He and his wife have sold vintage racing jackets on Etsy for five years. Recently, he said, theyve become very, very hard to find at secondhand stalls.

He welcomes the competition, even if it has made his job harder. Its very fun, actually, he said. Because we are having a lot of friends, you know?

Check out latest DH videos here
WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Debbie's Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer (DDF) is set to virtually host its 10th Annual Stomach Cancer Capitol Hill Advocacy Day on February 7 and 8, 2022. Historically held in Washington, D.C. on Capitol Hill, the annual event has taken place virtually for two consecutive years following the onset of the 2020 global COVID-19 pandemic.

Advocacy Day consists of patients, caregivers, and families coming together with one voice to ask Congress to support increased funding for stomach cancer research.

Participants of Debbie's Dream Foundation 9th Annual Virtual Stomach Cancer Advocacy Day during the post-event virtual happy hour in 2021.

This year more than 130 advocates from across the United States will meet virtually with their members of Congress. In addition to asking Congress to support the continued inclusion of stomach cancer in the Department of Defense's Peer-Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP), advocates will also ask Congress to complete action on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 spending bills and support $7.766 billion for the National Cancer Institute for FY 2023.

Advocacy Day has been a DDF tradition since 2012 and led to the inaugural inclusion of stomach cancer in the PRCRP in 2015 and more than $24 million stomach cancer research funding through the program since then. Most recently, the NCI launched the Ad Hoc Working Group on Gastric and Esophageal Cancer. In FY 2020, Congress took a critical step forward in the fight against stomach cancer by directing NCI to develop a "strategic plan" for research on gastric and esophageal cancer. NCI has made important progress in implementing that directive with the launching of this Working Group which will identify stomach cancer research needs and opportunities. This progress encourages DDF and its patient advocate community to trust that their efforts will continue to lead to more funding, medical breakthroughs, and an end to stomach cancer as we know it.

"DDF's 10 years of advocating for more federal research funding has led to tremendous movement in the right direction for stomach cancer research," said Andrea Eidelman, Chief Executive Officer of DDF. "Debbie's Dream Foundation is proud to have started and sustained this movement to inspire others to join us in advocating. I do not doubt that as a result of these meetings we will eventually find a cure within our lifetimes."

For more information about DDF's Annual Advocacy Day, visit www.DebbiesDream.org/advocacy. To learn more about DDF and other resources offered, visit www.DebbiesDream.org.

About Debbie's Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer

DDF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about gastric cancer, advancing funding for research, and providing education and support internationally to patients, families, and caregivers. DDF seeks as its ultimate goal to make the cure for stomach cancer a reality.

DDF was founded in 2009 by Debbie Zelman after she was diagnosed with stage IV incurable gastric cancer in 2008 and given only weeks to live. Debbie is considered a pioneer by many for bringing awareness to the plight of stomach cancer patients worldwide and the lack of federal funding for stomach cancer research. She did all of this while receiving hundreds of rounds of chemo, in addition to daily oral treatments. Debbie passed away on December

23, 2017, almost a decade later, at 50. As a result of her leadership, DDF now has a Scientific and Medical Advisory Board of world-renowned doctors and chapters throughout the United States and Canada and Germany. DDF strives to continue Debbie's mission and to make her dream a reality. To learn more about DDF, please visit us at www.DebbiesDream.org.

Media Contact:

Brittnay Starks

Communications Coordinator

Debbie's Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer

(954) 475-1200

[email protected]

www.DebbiesDream.org

SOURCE Debbie's Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer
Senator Ben Ray Lujan, a New Mexico Democrat, suffered a stroke last week. Hes expected to make a full recovery and to return to Washington in a few weeks. Until then, the Democrats wont be at full strength, which is causing a fair amount of panic among some observers. After all, the party balance in the Senate is dead even, a 50-50 tie, with Democrats only holding their slim majority thanks to Vice President Kamala Harriss tie-breaking vote.As Grover once said, however, this kind of situation does not call for freaking out. In fact, assuming the timeline is correct and that no other disruptions happen, its really not that big a deal for the Democrats floor majority.The math is simple. So far this year, Harris has only broken ties 15 times, and four of those were nominations that required two votes. Thats a lot, historically speaking; the last vice president to have voted more times was Schuyler Colfax, and he had four years to do it (1869-1873). But even if there were another handful of cases where Republicans mightve forced a tie with full attendance, its not really that many compared to all the measures that Democrats have brought to the Senate floor. Theyve already taken 32 votes this year, after taking 528 last year. Some of those were due to the filibuster  on normal legislation, it takes 60 votes, rather than a simple majority, to defeat a filibuster, and Senate practice since 2009 has been to filibuster everything that can be filibustered. Missing Lujan is unlikely to matter much in those situations, although its possible that some bill will arise that can get exactly 10 Republicans along with all the Democrats and will therefore have to be postponed until hes back.Then there are those bills that are exempt from normal filibuster rules and need only a simple majority. Harris provided the winning vote at one point for the big relief bill last February, which passed using reconciliation rules. The same rules would also apply to the large climate-health-care-and-more spending bill that is currently stalled in the Senate. But that bill has only 49 votes, not 50, and it doesnt seem likely that any new version that can attract the support of West Virginias Joe Manchin will turn up in the next few weeks.Lujans absence is more likely to matter on nominations, where a simple majority is all it takes. Yet there have been exact ties on only eight of the more than 300 executive-branch and judicial nominations that have been confirmed during this Congress. Its true that there has been significant Republican opposition to nominations that once wouldve been routine. But that opposition is rarely unanimous, meaning that 49 Democratic votes is almost always enough.Sure, Republicans couldve suddenly rallied together to disrupt things anyway, using Lujans illness as an opportunity. The first test, however, showed no sign of that  the Senate has moved forward on several nominations this week, before and after the news broke from New Mexico, with lopsided votes. Certainly, any nominations on which Republicans are united in opposition will have to be delayed. But given the huge backlog of nominees ready for Senate votes, thats unlikely to be a significant problem.Concern isnt coming out of nowhere, of course. Quite a few senators in recent years have had extended absences for health-related reasons. Theres always a chance a senator will die in office or resign, and if its a Democrat replaced by a Republican, the Senate majority would in fact flip. And during the pandemic, the risk of another senator suddenly being unavailable for a few weeks is higher than usual (the Senate, unlike the House, does not allow remote or proxy voting in the full chamber).Still, the record so far is a good reminder that even in this era of what seems like extreme polarization, straight party-line votes in the Senate only occur on a limited number of measures. Again, the filibuster has a lot to do with that; if 50 votes plus the vice president was all it took, Democrats wouldve advanced quite a few more bills and some of them would pass with the smallest possible majority. Yet even though the most conservative Democrats are more liberal than the most liberal Republicans, lots of measures either are moderate enough that theyll draw the votes of a few Republicans, or liberal enough that Manchin opposes them and therefore Democrats wont bring them up for a vote. And as contentious as nominations have become, only a fraction of them end up passing on party-line votes.None of this is to say that polarization isnt important. Its probably the most important thing to know about Congress right now. But its not the only thing to know. And remember that both parties, especially Republicans in the minority, have strong incentives to emphasize and even exaggerate how large the gulf between them really is.
British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss had a phone call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Wednesday, February 2, according to a press release posted on the UK government's website.

"The Foreign Secretary spoke to Foreign Minister Kuleba to reiterate the UK's unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. She expressed her deep disappointment at being unable to travel to Ukraine this week, but hopes to reschedule her visit soon and said she plans to visit Moscow shortly," the statement said.

Both agreed that European and NATO allies need to present a robust and united front to Russia. Truss outlined how the UK is spearheading both diplomatic and deterrence work, including helping lead coordination efforts with allies to keep Russia on a diplomatic track, while also providing defense and economic support to Ukraine.

"Both ministers agreed on the importance of Ukraine forging closer trade, investment, diplomatic and security ties with the UK, and more broadly with democracies across the world. They discussed how responding decisively and strongly to the Kremlin now will help deter future as well as present Russian aggression," the press release reads.

Truss was unable to arrive in Kyiv together with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson due to COVID-19.

On February 1, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Johnson discussed a set of steps to deter Russian aggression.

op
Riding on the back of a new launch, bookings or new sales growth for the countrys largest listed developer nearly doubled YoY in the December quarter (Q3FY22). About a third of the Rs 2,020 crore sales in the quarter was contributed by the One Midtown project in Delhi which was launched in December. The project is a joint venture between and Singapores sovereign wealth fund, GIC. The rest of the sales came from ongoing luxury project Camellias (Gurgaon), new products and demand for independent floors.
PHOENIX, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Equality Health, a leading provider of value-based physician networks uniquely equipped to address the needs of diverse and historically underserved populations, today announced a major expansion of its presence in Texas. Now, on the heels of its 2020 expansion into Houston, El Paso, and the Rio Grande Valley, Equality Health is expanding its footprint to include the San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, and Northeast Texas regions.

The expansion is catalyzed by Equality Health's growing partnerships with multiple regional and national payers, as well as a rapidly growing primary care network that now stretches across all eight metropolitan areas within the state. The investment in these new markets will bring additional payers and providers onto the company's value-based care platform, which in turn will make hundreds of thousands of Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and ACA exchange health plan members eligible for the holistic, culturally competent services offered by the Equality Health care model.

In Texas, and throughout the U.S., independent practices, or those that are not primarily aligned to a hospital system, are often precluded from participating in alternative payment models because they lack the necessary scale or infrastructure. Those that are eligible to contract directly with health plans in alternative payment models are challenged to manage multiple fragmented contracts, performance measures, targets, and reporting requirements. For such practices, investing in the technology and personnel to manage such value-based arrangements more easily is often prohibitive.

Aligning with Equality Health allows independent physician practices to consolidate multiple value-based contracts within a single network and integrated technology platform. For health plans, Equality Health represents a single-source partner with a network that is fully enabled for success in alternative payment models. And for patients, Equality Health will improve access to primary care and enhance coordination between primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and the community-based organizations that address many non-medical, socio-economic determinants of health.

"This expansion will help more providers engage with health plans in alternative payment models," said Hugh Lytle, founder and chief executive officer of Equality Health. "By joining Equality Health's value-based network and consolidating their populations on the Equality Health platform, they need only to focus on one set of targets and one set of instructions, so they can channel more of their valuable time and resources to treating the patients who need it most."

Providers looking to learn more about the benefits of joining the Equality Health Network can visit the organization's provider resource page. Health plans interested in details about Equality Health's comprehensive value-based care model can learn more on the health plan resource page.

About Equality Health

Equality Health, LLC is a Phoenix-based whole-health delivery system focused on transforming value-based care delivery with population specific programs that improve access, quality, and member trust. Through an integrated technology and services platform, culturally competent provider network and personalized care model, Equality Health helps managed care plans and health systems improve outcomes for diverse populations while simultaneously making the transition to risk-based accountability. For more information about Equality Health, visit www.equalityhealth.com or follow @EqualityHealth on Facebook, @EqualityHealth on Twitter, and @EqualityHealth on LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

Grant Evans

Amendola Communications (for Equality Health)

215-582-8146

[email protected]

SOURCE Equality Health
DES MOINES -- A proposal requiring Iowans to testify against a spouse in cases involving threats by one against the other or to a third party won approval Wednesday from the Iowa House Judiciary Committee.

Marital privilege allows communication that occurs between spouses to remain confidential and free from public exposure, and protects spouses from being required to testify against one another in a civil or criminal case.

House Study Bill 528 would codify two exceptions found in current law, Rep. Brian Lohse, R-Bondurant, said. A person could be compelled to testify against a spouse about threats made against him or her, or to a third party, as well as about communications disclosed to a third party. The bill would add a third exception, compelling testimony in cases where one spouse is charged with criminal acts against the other, such as domestic abuse, he said.

The third exception drew on a case where a woman threatened to kill  with a detailed explanation  her husbands girlfriend. Those communications, which were needed to prove intent, were not permitted at trial because of spousal privilege, Lohse said.

Rep. Beth Wessel-Kroeschell, D-Ames, questioned whether that third exception is needed because the defendant was convicted, and convicted with intent.

She was a very sloppy murderer, I would say, Wessel-Kroeschell added.

The bill, the same as Senate Study Bill 3013, was approved 20-0. It also changed the terms husband and wife to spouse.

The committee also approved HSB 592 to allow, upon a motion from any party, an arraignment, pretrial conference, scheduling conference or any other non-contested criminal proceeding to be conducted by videoconference or telephone. Also, a hearing in a criminal case could be conducted by videoconference or telephone if it does not prejudice a substantial right of a party.

The change is a lesson learned from the coronavirus pandemic, Wessel-Kroeschell said, and can save time and money.

Finally, the Judiciary Committee voted 18-3 to send House File 2043 to the full House. It would change the mandatory retirement age for judicial magistrates from 72 to 78, which is the same for judges on senior status.

Some committee members questioned why there was any mandatory retirement age. Others thought the rule should apply to all judges, including the state Court of Appeals and state Supreme Court.
Giant portraits of two notable environmental defenders are to be created for the upcoming Biennale of Sydney from that utilitarian fabric of modern suburban gardens: green grass.

Months after setting a carpet of grass bearing the poetry of Ben Okri afloat on the Thames River for a performative work at Tate Modern, British artists Heather Ackroyd and Dan Harvey will bring their monumental prints-on-grass to the Art Gallery of NSW for the very first time.

The British duo Heather Ackroyd and Dan Harvey, who are bringing their grass art to Sydney for the first time. Credit:Flavio Brancaleone

The duo uses principles of darkroom photography to make their tapestry-like images, with light-sensitive chlorophyll triggered in the same way as dyes are on film.

Light is projected through negatives onto germinating grass, sown into a thin layer of preserved clay in a darkroom-like setting. Differing strengths of light create varying shades of green.
PHILIPSBURG:--- February is a month-long observance of Black History Month (BHM). Its a chance in the US, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Caribbean to celebrate Black achievements. The celebration also provides a fresh reminder to take stock and understand Black Histories, going beyond stories of racism and slavery to spotlight Black achievement.

Most important for the Philipsburg Jubilee library here on Sint Maarten is that it allows persons, organizations, and schools to seize the moment to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black locals in various areas of endeavor throughout our history.

In line with the COVID-19 preventative measures, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL) presents this year a program with mainly virtual elements. The focus of this Annual BHM- Program continues to be based on Passing on our Legacy.

Every day of the month, patrons and visitors of the PJL will be requested to read a book of their choice from the African diaspora collection, the St. Maarten authors collection, and the Caribbean authors' collection in the library. The volunteers will be video-taped and at least two videos will be posted per day on the PJL Facebook page.

Patrons and visitors will also be encouraged to download the iSTEP App and enjoy our virtual exhibition of Sint Maartens history and artifacts. They will learn more about and even experience the stories about salt mining, slavery, Emilio Wilson, and Rockland Estate all thanks to the collaboration with the Ministry ECYS.

And, to intensify the spirit of the celebration, natural juices such as mauby, sorrel Juice, and coconut punch can be tasted daily.

The highlight of the month will be a panel discussion on Monday, February 28, 2022, from 7:00 pm to 8:30 p.m. A panel, existing of new young local authors such as Jennifer Brooks, Roy Marlin Jr., Rochelle Ward, and Latoya Lake, will have a discussion under the leadership of the dynamic Charisse Piper with the main topic being: Inspiring persons through Literacy. The panel discussion will be live-streamed on PJL Facebook: stmaarten.pjlibrary. Make sure to place this eye-opening and interesting discussion on your schedule, share it, and join us with the whole family. A special invitation goes out to all aspiring authors and artists, young, middle-aged, or older. We will be looking out for you.

The Philipsburg Jubilee Library Board, Management, and Staff with the mission to continue promoting literacy wishes the entire community another meaningful and self-enriching experience for Black History Month 2022 with new food for thought and lots of inspiration.

You can find us at W. A. J. Nisbeth Road #3 in Philipsburg, on the Hill Side Christian School premises in Cay Hill, and the Belvedere Community Center premises in Belvedere. Or, call us at + 1 721 542 2970, visit us on our website stmaartenlibrary.org or Twitter SXMlibrary.

BE THERE TO SUPPORT YOUR OWN AND DONT YOU MISS IT!
DAYTON, Ohio, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Woolpert has acquired eTrac Inc., a vessel-based hydrographic survey and marine technology firm that conducts custom and integrated marine services for projects across the U.S. and its territories. These services include collecting and processing hydrographic survey and bathymetric mapping data for coastal mapping, navigation safety and nautical charting, high-resolution multibeam sonar data for shipping channel dredging and pipeline inspections, underwater imagery and aerial lidar data for change analysis, and vessel positioning and monitoring.

This merger combines the firms' hydrographic, bathymetric and geospatial capabilities to best serve clients worldwide. Tweet this Welcome, eTrac!

eTrac is headquartered in San Rafael, Calif., and has offices in La Porte, Texas; Port Orchard, Wash.; and Wasilla, Alaska. eTrac will become part of Woolpert's geospatial sector and will expand to serve clients throughout the U.S. and around the world.

Woolpert Vice President and Maritime Solutions Market Director John Gerhard said this merger combines the hydrographic survey and multibeam sonar expertise of eTrac with Woolpert's aerial topographic, bathymetric and geospatial capabilities to deepen service offerings, leverage inherent synergies, achieve operational efficiencies and extend geographic reach. It also unites eTrac's fleet of survey vessels with Woolpert's 49 manned and unmanned aircraft.

"We have partnered with eTrac for years. We know their people, admire their work and understand how we make each other and the data better," Gerhard said. "By marrying our complementary marine technology products and services, we gain the tools to comprehensively support the needs of our global clients today and to develop the geospatial solutions of tomorrow. We have already begun collaboratingseeing whether a project is better served via a plane or boat, which sensor will be most cost-effective, etc.and this is just the beginning."

Like Woolpert, eTrac was founded as an engineering and survey company. While Woolpert grew to develop integrated architecture, engineering and geospatial (AEG) capabilities, eTrac carved out its niche in vessel-based hydrographic services. Both have retained that fundamental, problem-solving perspective. This has led the firms to not only deliver geospatial services but to develop products where needed solutions did not yet exist.

"Woolpert is very technology-forward, investing in the future rather than playing catchup, and that is how we've always operated as well," said Michael Mueller, CEO and founder of eTrac. "We have our line of marine products and systems, and Woolpert has its new topo-bathy sensor system, all of which were designed to address specific client needs. The fact that Woolpert has established a maritime lab to further hydrographic and bathymetric research and development efforts internationally really sealed the deal for us."

Woolpert President and CEO Scott Cattran said this acquisition further strengthens Woolpert's position as a leading provider of global geospatial services.

"We continue to invest heavily in firms that provide progressive solutions for our clients. Between our firms and through our extensive industry partnerships, we are now collecting, processing and integrating data from outer space to the bottom of the oceanstrengthening our industry leadership in marine, maritime and coastal mapping services," Cattran said. "We are now one of a few select firms around the world that can deliver this wide a swath of vital geospatial data, and we are the only ones who can support it with integrated AEG expertise. We are excited to welcome eTrac to our growing Woolpert family."

About Woolpert

Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG) and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is an ENR Top 150 Global Design Firm, recently earned its sixth-straight Great Place to Work certification and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been America's fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. The firm has more than 1,600 employees and 60 offices on four continents. For more, visit woolpert.com.

About eTrac Inc.

eTrac Inc. was established in 2003 as a hydrographic survey, vessel positioning and marine instrumentation firm. eTrac has quickly grown to include over 40 employees in several offices along the coastal United States, including the San Francisco Bay area, Anchorage, Pacific Northwest and the Gulf of Mexico. The firm has earned a strong reputation among many sectors of the hydrographic industry including government agencies and private industry. Its equipment fleet has also grown to include geophysical survey vessels as well as several ultra-portable, shallow water survey craft. eTrac is committed to continual reinvestment in industry leading equipment and knowledgeable staff to complete multibeam, singlebeam, sidescan, subbottom, mobile lidar and water-level surveys required by our clients. For more, visit etracinc.com.

Media contact: Woolpert PR Manager Jill Kelley; 937-531-1258, [email protected]

SOURCE Woolpert
PALM BEACH, Fla., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- It is no surprise that plastic surgery has taken center stage as the hot buy for 2022 with private equity firms. Dozens of firms have started platforms nationally and many more are joining the action. We sat down with Samir Qureshi and David C Branch of Viper Equity Partners to get some answers to the most common concerns of the Doctors.

Q: What can a plastic surgery group expect a deal to look like?

Viper: What we are seeing are exciting deals across the board in plastic surgery. A typical deal will be based on a multiple of EBITDA (like net profit). The multiples we are seeing are in the 6x-9x of that adjusted EBITDA which includes doctor compensation. The deals will typically pay 70% cash at close to the sellers and 30% will be rolled into equity in the buying company. These are partnership deals, so the doctors post close are shareholders and owners not employees. The deals can be very lucrative with earnouts, bonus programs and incentive plans.

Q: So, do doctors lose control of their offices and staff?

Viper: Not at all. Post close the doctors will remain in charge of their offices. The buyers do not change the name on the door, terminate staff or in anyway disrupt what is a successful business. They do come to the doctors with capital for expansion or acquisitions and administrative support to give the doctors more free time to use as they wish. The support is all done from a remote location which includes ordering supplies, human resources, marketing, and employee benefits. These are true partnerships with a common goal of growth.

Q: What can the surgeons expect for compensation post close.

Viper: Typically, each doctor will be paid between 40-50% of their personal production. There also can be specific bonus plans for each doctor.

Q: What happens to my staff?

Viper: Nothing. Since the doctors remain in charge of their offices, they make all staffing decisions. Key managers and associates will be given new contracts that will mirror their present contracts.

Q: Why contact Viper?

Viper: It is so important to collaborate with experts in this industry. We started the plastic surgery consolidation in 2017. Fast forward to 2022 we have completed more transactions than anyone and understand every aspect of the space. Experience is key, no question. We have dozens of qualified buyers and sellers waiting and know how to get the deals done.

Viper Equity Partners is a leading sell side Investment banking firm located in Palm Beach Florida that represents Dentists, Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists and Ophthalmologists nationwide. For more information visit www.Viperequitypartners.com or call 305 988 5945.

SOURCE Viper Equity Partners
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI/SRV): With the recent announcement of Symbiosis National Aptitude Test (SNAP) 2021 results, Symbiosis Institute of Operations Management (SIOM) Nashik, one of the nation's leading educational institutes dedicated to empowering and leading operations excellence announces the last few days for aspirants to apply for their two flagship MBA programmes. In view of the current scenario, aspirants can register till February 5, 2022 by visiting the official website - https://bit.ly/3HokOuw SIOM Nashik has a glorious history of functioning up to the legacy of the Symbiosis group of institutions. The institute has been occupied in making significant contributions to enhance the industry standards and widen its horizons ever since its inception. Graced with over 60 journal publications, more than 100 recruiting partners and several highly accomplished full-time and visiting faculty members, the institute has been scripting successful career development of ambitious and competent managers, eyeing the progress of the sector through the two in-demand specializations - MBA (Operations Management) and MBA (Agri-Operations Management). The domain of operations management has turned into a promising sector, as industries across segment look to uplift their operations and outlook in the post Covid world. The rising demand for professionals and experts from the field of operations management is opening doors to a huge number of opportunities with steady career options. SIOM Nashik is powered by a strong, industry-oriented academic curriculum designed by the expert faculty of the institute to be at par with the changing industry trends and prevailing environment. The curriculum is a blend of both technical and management education and consists of several crucial subjects like Quality Management, Supply chain management, Project management, Transportation and logistics, Modelling dynamic systems, and a lot more. In addition to this, the skills like SAP, ERP, Six Sigma, APICS, CII Logistics, and SCS provide the students with a much-needed boost to their careers and enable them to stand out in the highly competitive job market. Promoting a practical, skill-based education system allows students to apply their through different live projects and other engaging activities. Moreover, the students are groomed as the best fit in operations for a host of sectors including manufacturing, IT, FMCG, e-commerce, consulting, etc. The students are also provided with expert guidance in finding and choosing the field of operations that best fit their skills and interests. The newly introduced program of MBA in Agri-Operations Management is set to transform agricultural sector and holds the promise of building a career in the agrarian economy. The MBA in Agri-Operations Management offers the student with the knowledge, operations expertise and skill-sets required by agriculture and allied sectors. In order to enhance their learnings and procurements to match the industry standards, students are trained in SCM, Logistics Production, Consulting, Ecommerce, IT, etc. With a focus on creating domain knowledge, students study Agro commodity markets, Processing and Value Chain Agriculture, Agri Supply Chain Management and Advances in Agriculture, Agro procurement Management, Warehouse Management, and Quality Management for Agro Products, etc. as part of the academic curriculum. SIOM Nashik has an impressive placement record with prominent companies such as ITC Limited, Nestle, EY, Deloitte, KPMG, Novartis, Cummins, McKinsey & Company, General Mills, Texas Instruments and others featuring as recruiters. For admission at SIOM Nashik, SNAP 2021 score is considered as the primary criteria to shortlist the aspirants and test their eligibility to enter the further rounds.The shortlisted candidates are required to take part in the Group Exercises (GE) round, followed by the Personal Interview and Writing Ability Test rounds (PI and WAT). The final selection of the candidates will be completely based on their performances in all four rounds, with the SNAP test score carrying the biggest weightage. SIOM Nashik, established in 2005, is the first educational institute in the nation which is exclusively dedicated to offering operations management education. Being affiliated to the Symbiosis International University, the institute shares an award-winning academic curriculum, impressive placement records and strong industrial exposure offered within the institute. For further information visit- https://bit.ly/3HokOuw and to apply for MBA (Operations Management) visit - https://bit.ly/3vIVWsy This story is provided by SRV. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/SRV)
MOD: Azerbaijan army fires at Armenia combat positions, at around 7:40am

Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan stalls repatriation of Armenian POWs

Newspaper: Armenia PM, parliament majority faction have closed discussion day after military operations

PM Pashinyan at UN, addresses Azerbaijan president: Could you show map of Armenia that you recognize?

PM Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan intends to seize new territories from Armenia

Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

FM addresses at Ancient Civilizations Forum: Armenian cultural heritage is being destroyed by Azerbaijan

NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

PM: Georgia ready to become venue for Armenia-Azerbaijan dialogue

Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

Bloomberg: UK intends to sign agreement on LNG supplies from U.S. for up to 20 years

China's former justice minister sentenced to death

Jermuk: Changes in Jermuk resort town after Azerbaijani attack (photo report)

Jermuk-Yerevan-Jermuk shuttle service already operating

Armenian Genocide Memorials Memory Ally area to be expanded

Biden to Pashinyan: We remain committed to promote peaceful resolution to conflict, including for people of Karabakh

Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

Aggression-affected IDPs from Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor to be provided with financial assistance

Peskov declines to comment on his son's refusal to report to military registration and enlistment office

Belgian parliamentary delegation visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

Peskov comments on reports of agitation at airports and checkpoints

Russia air carrier to conduct additional flights to Armenia, Turkey

Kazakhstan parliament passes law to exclude Day of First President from state holidays

US Congressman Schiff: These atrocities will continue until international community condemns Aliyev

Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

Senator: the U.S. must stop providing security assistance to Azerbaijan

Armenia, Finland FMs discuss Karabakh conflict settlement process

CSTO Secretary General, Armenia army chief discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

Armenia FM to Red Cross president: Azerbaijan crimes impunity makes aggressor more reckless (PHOTOS)

Greece politician condemns Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

Iran, Russia and China to hold joint naval drills

Iran army chief: We will not allow changes in borders in region

Parliament speaker: We expect our Belgian colleagues to continue efforts for Armenian POWs return from Azerbaijan

Karabakh FM discusses Artsakh foreign policy with group of US Congress members, senators

Relatives of those who died and those who were injured in Yerevan market explosion to get one-time financial aid

Copper rises in price

Truss says Russia is not threatened by anyone

Crime report is sent to Armenia Prosecutor General regarding recent harassment toward reporters in parliament

Armenia FM to International Crisis Group head: Azerbaijan trying to achieve its maximalist demands by using force

Gold prices fall below $1670 per ounce

Borrell announces new sanctions on Russia because of referendums

Oil prices move to some growth

Blinken says US will continue to support Ukraine

Newspaper: Armenia 3 ex-presidents, Catholicos to meet soon

Armenia FM in New York, meets with UN Secretary General special adviser on genocide prevention

Russian soldiers are exchanged with 215 Ukrainian POWs

Newspaper: PM urges political teammates not to do anything drastic regarding topic of Armenia leaving CSTO

Bulgaria gets closer to buying the second batch of eight new F-16s

Armenia FM to Sweden counterpart: International community must restrain Azerbaijan military aggression

FM briefs Nicaragua colleague on consequences of Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

2 of 3 injured in Yerevan market damaged building collapse discharged from hospital

Britain decides to revise its defense and security plan

Iranian parliament says border violation due to aggravation between Armenia and Azerbaijan unacceptable

Pashinyan leaves for New York

Biden not to restrict imports of neodymium magnets from China

No threat to life of serviceman wounded by Azerbaijani Armed Forces shelling

EU's desire for independence from Russian gas will lead to slowdown of economy, rising inflation and fall of euro

Biden to release 10 million barrels of oil ahead of EU ban on Russian oil

Earthquake in Iran felt in Armenia

Armenian Defense Ministry: Azerbaijan opens fire at Armenian positions, one wounded

EU begins to develop new sanctions against Russia
JERSEY CITY, N.J., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Verified Market Research recently published a report, "Haptic Technology Market" By Component (Actuators, Drivers and Controllers), By Feedback (Tactile and Force), By Application (Consumer Electronics, Gaming, Healthcare). According to Verified Market Research, the Global Haptic Technology Market size was valued at USD 2.48 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 6.20 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 12.10% from 2021 to 2028.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/download-sample/?rid=215447

Browse in-depth TOC on "Haptic Technology Market"

202 - Pages

126  Tables

37  Figures

Global Haptic Technology Market Overview

Haptics is gaining acceptance in smartphones and tablets and has reached a level of saturation in these devices. Many companies are assessing the integration of haptic technology and evaluating the risk and cost of adding the new features into it. Although the integration of haptics (tactile haptics) into mobiles and tablets does not involve high costs, as force-feedback haptic devices are high in price compared to tactile feedback and other haptic devices. Force feedback haptic requires efficient and effective devices that are available in three degrees of freedom mainly, (DoF), 6 DoF, and 7 DoF, that allow the users to experience real-time virtual haptics in various applications. Force feedback-based haptic devices are mostly used in simulation applications in the medical, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries, and ergonomic studies. These haptic devices are bulky, which becomes an issue in the case of wearable haptic devices.

Haptic technology, which earlier was limited up to smartphones, tablets, and other consumer devices, is now used in new areas of education and robotics. In robotics, haptic devices such as gloves are used by robot operators to manipulate a robotic hand or other end effectors over a precise control. By using haptic gloves, robot operators can precisely control the robot arms even while sitting miles away from the factory floor. HaptX (US) is one of the largest providers of haptic gloves for robotic applications.

The challenge in the global Haptic Technology Market pertains to the technical challenges faced by the product manufacturers to enable haptic functionality in several devices such as smartphones, tablets, automobile dashboards, and gaming.

Key Developments

November 2020 : Ultraleap signed an agreement with IPlan Ideas Events and its division, I-plan Ideas Technologies (IPI Tech), a subsidiary of UAE-based Hawas Group, to bring Ultraleap's hand tracking and mid-air haptic technologies to clients in the UAE. IPI Tech will introduce the technology to a range of sectors, including kiosk makers, retail, advertising and marketing, and cinemas, among others.

: Ultraleap signed an agreement with IPlan Ideas Events and its division, I-plan Ideas Technologies (IPI Tech), a subsidiary of UAE-based Hawas Group, to bring Ultraleap's hand tracking and mid-air haptic technologies to clients in the UAE. IPI Tech will introduce the technology to a range of sectors, including kiosk makers, retail, advertising and marketing, and cinemas, among others. September 2020 , Immersion signed a multi-year license renewal with LG Electronics ( South Korea ) for continued use of TouchSense software and haptic technologies in its mobile devices. LG is expected to continue the use of Immersion haptic software in its entire range of smartphones.

Key Players

The major players in the market are 3D Systems, Aito B.V., Force Dimension, Senseg Oy (Finland) Force Dimension (Switzerland), Haption SA (France), Texas Instruments, Inc. (U.S.), Ultrahaptics (U.K), ON Semiconductor Corporation (U.S.), SMK Corporation (Japan), Microchip Technology, Inc. (U.S.), Precision Microdrives, Ltd. (U.K.), IMAGIS Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Haptx Inc. Immersion Corporation, and Synaptics Incorporated (U.S.).

Verified Market Research has segmented the Global Haptic Technology Market On the basis of Component, Feedback, Application, and Geography.

Haptic Technology Market, By Component

Actuators



Drivers and Controllers



Software



Others

Haptic Technology Market, By Feedback

Tactile



Force

Haptic Technology Market, By Application

Consumer Electronics



Gaming



Healthcare



Others

Haptic Technology 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

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Top Automotive Sensor Companies delivering proper safety tools to highway drivers

Visualize Haptic Technology Market using Verified Market Intelligence:-:

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VMI provides a holistic overview and global competitive landscape with respect to Region, Country, and Segment, and Key players of your market. Present your Market Report & findings with an inbuilt presentation feature saving over 70% of your time and resources for Investor, Sales & Marketing, R&D, and Product Development pitches. VMI enables data delivery In Excel and Interactive PDF formats with over 15+ Key Market Indicators for your market.

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We study 14+ categories from Semiconductor & Electronics, Chemicals, Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Energy & Power, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Automotive & Transportation, Information & Communication Technology, Software & Services, Information Security, Mining, Minerals & Metals, Building & construction, Agriculture industry and Medical Devices from over 100 countries.

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SOURCE Verified Market Research
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/putin-xi-meeting-significant-for-world-security-dems-push-means-tested-child-tax-credit-1092701442.html

Putin Xi Meeting Significant for World Security; Dems Push Means-Tested Child Tax Credit

Putin Xi Meeting Significant for World Security; Dems Push Means-Tested Child Tax Credit

The Poor People's Campaign is blasting Senator Joe Manchin's proposal to apply means testing for a revival of the expired child tax credit. 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T09:59+0000

2022-02-03T09:59+0000

2022-02-03T09:59+0000

middle east

pkk

vladimir putin

turkey

poland

sen. joe manchin (d-west virginia)

yemen

the critical hour

president xijinping

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Putin Xi Meeting Significant for World Security; Dems Push Means-Tested Child Tax Credit The Poor People's Campaign is blasting Senator Joe Manchin's proposal to apply means testing for a revival of the expired child tax credit.

Scott Ritter, former UN weapon inspector in Iraq, joins us to discuss America's obsession with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ritter argues that the US obsession with the person of Vladimir Putin misses the critically important issues involving US and European security interests.Ray Baker, political analyst and host of the podcast Public Agenda, joins us to discuss domestic politics. The Poor People's Campaign is blasting Senator Joe Manchin's proposal to apply means-testing to a revival of the expired child tax credit. Also, the Florida GOP is pushing to weaken the ballot initiative process after losing on several important issues.Dr. David Oualaalou, international geopolitical consultant, global speaker, author, veteran, former international security analyst in Washington, DC, and the founder of Global Perspective Consulting headquartered in Dallas, TX., joins us to discuss the NATO security crisis. Cracks are opening up in NATO leadership as the security interests of some EU nations clash with the hegemonic desires of the US empire. Also, Ukraine, the UK, and Poland are creating a three-nation security pact that as yet remains undefined.Marvin Weinbaum, director for the Middle East DInstitute's Center for Pakistan and Afghanistan Studies, joins us to discuss Afghanistan. Russia and China are sending supplies to Afghanistan and working to stabilize the nation's economy and possibly normalize relations.Laith Marouf, broadcaster and journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon, joins us to discuss the Middle East. Turkey has bombed several Kurdish locations in Northern Iraq. Also, Amnesty International has a new report defining the Israeli occupation as apartheid and Iran says that their maximum resistance will overcome the US campaign of maximum pressure.Steve Poikonen, national organizer for Action4Assange, joins us to discuss Yemen. The US is getting more deeply involved with the Yemen war as the conflict spreads to other parts of the region.Ted Rall, political cartoonist and syndicated columnist, joins us to discuss censorship. Germany has banned Russian News Channel RT claiming that it does not meet the necessary license requirements. Also, Caitlyn Johnstone talks about the propensity of consumers of western media to attack those who reject the mainstream foreign policy narratives towards Russia and China.Dr. Ken Hammond, professor of East Asian and global history at New Mexico State University, joins us to discuss China. The upcoming meeting between Presidents Putin and Xi Jinping is significant for the security of the world. Also, China issues a clear warning to the US about their willingness to use force if necessary to resolve the Taiwan crisis.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.com

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middle east, pkk, vladimir putin, turkey, poland, sen. joe manchin (d-west virginia), yemen, president xijinping, , radio
By Tom Balmforth

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu reviewed live-fire exercises in western Belarus on Thursday, part of a surge of military activity close to Ukraine.

Russia, in its biggest deployment to Belarus since the Cold War ended, is expected to have 30,000 troops as well as fighter jets and missile systems for the joint exercises that run until Feb. 20, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said.

The presence of a large Russian force in Belarus has added to western fears that Russia could be preparing to attack Ukraine on multiple fronts. Moscow denies any such intention and says the exercises are defensive in nature.

Ukraine said Russia currently has a total of 115,000 troops near its borders.

The Belarusian Defence Minister released images from Thursday's exercises showing troops parachuting to the ground, fighter jets in the sky, soldiers dismounting from a helicopter holding weapons, and tanks firing and manoeuvring.

Shoigu, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, was pictured looking on with the Belarusian defence minister and other military officials at the Brest military facility in the west of Belarus.

The scale of the deployments and drills pointed to the burgeoning alliance between the ex-Soviet neighbours that has accelerated since Moscow helped Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko weather huge anti-government protests in 2020.

Before the drills took place, Shoigu met Lukashenko and said that Moscow and Minsk would hold a total of 20 joint military manoeuvres this year.

Echoing Russia's official line that it is the West, not Moscow, that is responsible for the tensions in Europe, Shoigu said that Moscow would be ready to help Minsk oppose "the West's destructive line".

Separately, the Belarusian foreign ministry called in Ukraine's ambassador on Thursday to protest over what Minsk said was the flight of a military drone that crossed its border on Jan. 24 to spy on a military training facility.

A spokesman for Ukraine's foreign ministry described the move as a provocation and said Ukraine had not used any drones.

Russia has not disclosed the number of troops and amount of military hardware it is sending to Belarus. The country of 9.5 million people shares its western border with NATO members Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, while Ukraine lies to its south.

Belarus says the exercises are needed due to military buildups in Ukraine, Poland and the Baltic states.

(Reporting by Tom Balmforth and Olzhas Auyezov; editing by Mark Trevelyan)
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/russia-watch-peter-spencer-and-the-washington-commanders-1092700993.html

Russia Watch, Peter Spencer and the Washington Commanders

Russia Watch, Peter Spencer and the Washington Commanders

Germany Censors German Language RT, BLM Money Mystery and the Killing of Peter Spencer 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T09:57+0000

2022-02-03T09:57+0000

2022-02-03T09:57+0000

russia

ukraine

washington

nfl

blm

political misfits

radio

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Russia Watch, Peter Spencer and the Washington Commanders Germany Censors German Language RT, BLM Money Mystery and the Killing of Peter Spencer

Peter Oliver, journalist and RT correspondent in Berlin, joins Michelle and John at the top of the show to discuss the latest developments from Ukraine, as well as Germany banning the German-language Russian RT broadcast.Next, Teresa Lundy, communications strategist and principal at TML Communications, talks with Michelle and John about the recent story published in New York Magazine regarding the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation's missing money mystery.Ted Rall is an award-winning political cartoonist, columnist, and author, his latest book is "The Stringer," and is co-host of the podcast DMZ America. You can find his work at www.rall.com. Ted meets up with the Misfits to talk about the latest news out of New York. The Albany County New York DA said this morning that former Governor Andrew Cuomo would not be charged in the criminal case involving allegations that he groped a former aide in the Executive Mansion in 2020. Cuomo lost his job and his reputation over the allegation, but he apparently wont lose his freedom.For the last segment, Tim Stevens, Chairman and CEO of the Black Political Empowerment Project (B-PEP) based in Pittsburgh, joined the show to talk about the killing of Peter Spencer. An immigrant from Jamaica, Spencer lived in Pittsburgh and was invited to join his white colleagues in the woods and was found dead a few hours later. No one has been charged with Spencers murder.Michelle and John close with conversation about Tom Brady retiring and the new name for the Washington team. Oh please, are they really going to call themselves the Washington Commanders?We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.com

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russia, ukraine, washington, nfl, blm, , radio
Fly Arna receives its second Airbus A320 aircraft

MOD: Azerbaijan army fires at Armenia combat positions, at around 7:40am

Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan stalls repatriation of Armenian POWs

Newspaper: Armenia PM, parliament majority faction have closed discussion day after military operations

PM Pashinyan at UN, addresses Azerbaijan president: Could you show map of Armenia that you recognize?

PM Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan intends to seize new territories from Armenia

Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

FM addresses at Ancient Civilizations Forum: Armenian cultural heritage is being destroyed by Azerbaijan

NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

PM: Georgia ready to become venue for Armenia-Azerbaijan dialogue

Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

Bloomberg: UK intends to sign agreement on LNG supplies from U.S. for up to 20 years

China's former justice minister sentenced to death

Jermuk: Changes in Jermuk resort town after Azerbaijani attack (photo report)

Jermuk-Yerevan-Jermuk shuttle service already operating

Armenian Genocide Memorials Memory Ally area to be expanded

Biden to Pashinyan: We remain committed to promote peaceful resolution to conflict, including for people of Karabakh

Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

Aggression-affected IDPs from Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor to be provided with financial assistance

Peskov declines to comment on his son's refusal to report to military registration and enlistment office

Belgian parliamentary delegation visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

Peskov comments on reports of agitation at airports and checkpoints

Russia air carrier to conduct additional flights to Armenia, Turkey

Kazakhstan parliament passes law to exclude Day of First President from state holidays

US Congressman Schiff: These atrocities will continue until international community condemns Aliyev

Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

Senator: the U.S. must stop providing security assistance to Azerbaijan

Armenia, Finland FMs discuss Karabakh conflict settlement process

CSTO Secretary General, Armenia army chief discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

Armenia FM to Red Cross president: Azerbaijan crimes impunity makes aggressor more reckless (PHOTOS)

Greece politician condemns Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

Iran, Russia and China to hold joint naval drills

Iran army chief: We will not allow changes in borders in region

Parliament speaker: We expect our Belgian colleagues to continue efforts for Armenian POWs return from Azerbaijan

Karabakh FM discusses Artsakh foreign policy with group of US Congress members, senators

Relatives of those who died and those who were injured in Yerevan market explosion to get one-time financial aid

Copper rises in price

Truss says Russia is not threatened by anyone

Crime report is sent to Armenia Prosecutor General regarding recent harassment toward reporters in parliament

Armenia FM to International Crisis Group head: Azerbaijan trying to achieve its maximalist demands by using force

Gold prices fall below $1670 per ounce

Borrell announces new sanctions on Russia because of referendums

Oil prices move to some growth

Blinken says US will continue to support Ukraine

Newspaper: Armenia 3 ex-presidents, Catholicos to meet soon

Armenia FM in New York, meets with UN Secretary General special adviser on genocide prevention

Russian soldiers are exchanged with 215 Ukrainian POWs

Newspaper: PM urges political teammates not to do anything drastic regarding topic of Armenia leaving CSTO

Bulgaria gets closer to buying the second batch of eight new F-16s

Armenia FM to Sweden counterpart: International community must restrain Azerbaijan military aggression

FM briefs Nicaragua colleague on consequences of Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

2 of 3 injured in Yerevan market damaged building collapse discharged from hospital

Britain decides to revise its defense and security plan

Iranian parliament says border violation due to aggravation between Armenia and Azerbaijan unacceptable

Pashinyan leaves for New York

Biden not to restrict imports of neodymium magnets from China

No threat to life of serviceman wounded by Azerbaijani Armed Forces shelling

EU's desire for independence from Russian gas will lead to slowdown of economy, rising inflation and fall of euro

Biden to release 10 million barrels of oil ahead of EU ban on Russian oil

Earthquake in Iran felt in Armenia

Armenian Defense Ministry: Azerbaijan opens fire at Armenian positions, one wounded
NEW YORK and SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Stand with Asians (SWA), a grassroots organization driving awareness of the challenges facing the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, today released a report documenting the widespread impact of its $600,000 SWA Community Fund allocated in May to underserved AAPI nonprofit and grassroots organizations. Distributed by blockchain-based non-profit Endaoment as $25,000 grants to 24 organizations , the funds  raised via a non-fungible token (NFT) auction  have positively impacted over 93,000 AAPI nationwide by funding programs such as prisoner support, mental health services, deportation pardons, low-income immigrant worker advocacy, domestic violence survivor support, emergency food pantries, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) solidarity projects and more.

With the intersection of the rise in anti-Asian hate and COVID-19, the AAPI community has been devastated by the pandemic, with many low-income AAPI losing work or disproportionately being forced to shut down small businesses while Asian American families suffer from drastically higher COVID-19 mortality and hospitalization rates . Armed with this funding, SWA grantees were able to meet this sharp increase in community needs, distributing 21,980 meals, fielding 7,700 helpline and wellness checkup calls, vaccinating 1,300 against COVID-19, providing 1,370 youth with educational/development opportunities, conducting 3,000 mental health counseling sessions, distributing 3,400 emergency whistles for self-defense against anti-Asian violence and much more.

The organizations funded span a range of fields across civic engagement, female empowerment, health and wellness, youth and education, senior care, special needs and community safety. The grantees are API Rise , Asian Prisoner Support Committee , Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center , CAUSE , Hmong Innovating Politics , Think!Chinatown , VietLead , Asian Immigrant Women Advocates , Jahajee Sisters , Delta Chinatown Initiative , Sakhi for South Asian Women , Sapna NYC , Asian Americans United , Family Touch , BeChinatown , Friends of Boundary Waters Wilderness , Immigrant History Initiative , Chinese Culture and Community Service Center , India Home , Integrated Resources Institute , Korean American Special Education Center and Send Chinatown Love .

For many, the grants came at a time of intensified need with many nonprofits grappling with limited staffing and volatile financial resources due to the pandemic while also experiencing unprecedented demand from AAPI community members for basic needs, such as food security, housing assistance, healthcare, domestic violence counseling, public safety, mental health services and more.

In addition, AAPI organizations are historically underfunded, with only 0.2% of philanthropic dollars going to organizations serving AAPI communities  meaning for every $100 awarded by foundations in the U.S., only 20 cents is designated for AAPI communities. More alarmingly, according to Asian Americans / Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy , this percentage has not changed since 1983  even as the AAPI population has since more than doubled and overall philanthropic giving has grown. However, with prevalent stereotypes such as the model minority myth  which positions Asian Americans as successful, affluent, well-educated professionals  the population's unique struggles are often overlooked or minimized in the mainstream. Meanwhile, difficulties such as language barriers, lack of digital literacy and a dearth of culturally appropriate services often result in low-income and immigrant AAPI communities receiving the least help.

"The AAPI community is facing unprecedented pressures with the continuing pandemic and wave of anti-Asian sentiment taking a toll on our most vulnerable," said Tian He, co-founder of Stand with Asians. "We're proud to learn of the far-reaching impacts of the $600,000 we distributed to these deserving organizations  with our grants helping keep doors open, feed low-income immigrants and the elderly, support deportees, refugees and domestic violence survivors, build solidarity across racial lines and more. Even so, these grants are just a drop in the bucket  we hope this report will spotlight the AAPI community's dire needs, these underserved organizations' pleas for more resources and the important work that lies ahead."

The funds were raised via a collaboration with influential AAPI digital artist Emily Yang, known as pplpleasr , alongside decentralized cryptocurrency exchange Uniswap with the goal of immediately deploying assistance to AAPI populations affected by pandemic and surge in discrimination. Pplpleaser created a one-of-a-kind art piece , an animated video featuring abstract 3D imagery of unicorns, constellations and prisms, which sold at auction for 310 Ethereum as a NFT minted on the blockchain  with funds distributed via Endaoment's on-chain giving platform. The NFT was purchased by PleasrDAO , a decentralized autonomous organization consisting of 30 members of the Ethereum community collecting digital art representing and funding important ideas and movements memorialized on-chain as NFTs.

Notably, the grants enabled nine organizations including API Rise, VietLead, Korean American Special Education Center, Immigrant History Initiative to either hire staff for the first time, fund paid internships for students or pay organizers for their work.

Other key accomplishments of these SWA-funded organizations in the nine months since the grants were issued include:

Allowed Asian Prisoner Support Committee's formerly incarcerated staff and community members to conduct 14 educational events on topics including criminalization, alternatives to incarceration, racial solidarity and more, reaching over 540 people





Provided Hmong Innovating Politics funds to host COVID-19 focus groups to address vaccine hesitancy in the Hmong community and better inform its COVID-19 work





Enabled Asian Immigrant Women Advocates to educate Chinese and Nepali immigrant and refugee women on anti-Asian hate and the importance of Black-Asian solidarity, resulting in attendees voicing a desire to see these communities unite





Provided VietLead the ongoing resources and staff needed to support pardon applications for deportees to Cambodia and Vietnam





and Allowed Sakhi for South Asian Women to keep its doors open, responding to 1,500 helpline calls from survivors of gender-based violence , distributing $415,000 to support basic needs including food and rent (3x the funding distributed in 2020), and providing 245 survivors with housing assistance, career readiness training, English classes and more





, distributing to support basic needs including food and rent (3x the funding distributed in 2020), and providing 245 survivors with housing assistance, career readiness training, English classes and more Enabling Delta Chinatown to install high-speed internet and security cameras in key locations in San Francisco Chinatown, where there has been an alarming uptick in anti-Asian crime and robberies of small businesses, both enhancing safety in Chinatown as well as closing the digital divide between Chinatown and the rest of the city  as many residents and merchants lack the resources to install high-speed internet





Enabled Sapna NYC to extend its COVID-19 emergency food pantry for five weeks to provide culturally appropriate food (177,800 pounds over 16 months) to working-class immigrants heavily impacted by the pandemic. The organization also connected them to resources such as food stamps, vaccines and unemployment insurance





to extend its COVID-19 emergency food pantry for five weeks to provide culturally appropriate food (177,800 pounds over 16 months) to working-class immigrants heavily impacted by the pandemic. The organization also connected them to resources such as food stamps, vaccines and unemployment insurance Helped Family Touch provide its culturally sensitive Grief Share counseling program in Korean for immigrants who lost family members due to COVID-19, sickness or accidents. The grant enabled them to provide over 1,390 sessions this year  a 69% increase from the prior year  and expand its services to seven additional states





Enabled India Home to open four new centers to support the increased pandemic needs of its South Asian and Indo-Caribbean senior immigrants, supplying 5,230 meals, 5,000 wellness check-up calls and 1,690 remote case management and mental health services





to open four new centers to support the increased pandemic needs of its South Asian and Indo-Caribbean senior immigrants, supplying 5,230 meals, 5,000 wellness check-up calls and 1,690 remote case management and mental health services Allowed Immigrant History Initiative to pilot a program to develop K-5 lesson plans on AAPI studies and history in New Jersey (reaching 1,000 students)  with plans to distribute these lesson plans to school districts across New Jersey , reaching up to half a million elementary school students. The state recently passed a bill mandating public schools teach Asian American history, becoming the second state to do so





(reaching 1,000 students)  with plans to distribute these lesson plans to school districts across , reaching up to half a million elementary school students. The state recently passed a bill mandating public schools teach Asian American history, becoming the second state to do so Enabled BeChinatown to increase the scope of its Chinatown Winter Wonderland event, which provided toys to children who live in San Francisco Chinatown single room occupancies and other challenging housing situations. They distributed over 1,000 toys this year (up from 600 last year) and converted the event from a no-frills toy handout to a full-blown block party with holiday activities, entertainers and COVID-19 vaccinations

Endaoment, a community foundation aiming to decentralize finance by enabling charitable giving of cryptocurrency, facilitated the movement of the funds to grantees via Stand With Asians' Endaoment Community Fund . Endaoment Community Funds are designed to function as more collaborative giving structures within the blockchain industry, empowering grassroots organizations closest to the causes at hand, such as SWA, to collectively decide on the organizations best fit to receive donations and drive social impact.

Following on the heels of its first successful foray into NFTs with pplpleaser, Stand With Asians has since partnered with AAPI creators James Jean and Arnold Tsang (also known as Steamboy33 ) on additional charity NFT auctions , bringing the total funds raised for the SWA Community Fund up to $779,495 - with plans to distribute these additional funds at a later date.

Quotes from Grantees

"This grant from Stand with Asians was essential to allowing us to compensate our hard-working organizers in our fight against the detention and deportation of Southeast Asians," said Nancy Nguyen, executive director at VietLead. "These much-needed funds gave us the runway to move this critical work forward and provided a welcome relief for our typical mode of nonstop fundraising, ultimately allowing us to better dismantle systems of oppression."

"As a small but mighty nonprofit, this grant was indispensable to better serving our community, especially as the pandemic has exponentially increased the basic survival needs of our community, " said Kavita Mehra, executive director of Sakhi for South Asian Women. "With these resources, we were able to continue our important work of supporting South Asian survivors of gender-based violence, helping hundreds with food, rent, education, emergency funds and more."

"This grant, the largest we've ever received, had a transformative impact for us," said Kathy Lu, co-founder of Immigrant History Initiative. "It allowed us to hire our first employee and dramatically expanded our ability to pursue long-term solutions tackling the systemic roots of racial injustice, rather than only its effects. We've been able to support New Jersey in its work to mandate Asian American history in public schools via launching a curriculum that will impact up to half a million students. This will fill a critical gap  especially as this wave of anti-Asian ignorance has highlighted the need for stronger awareness of our community's struggles and history."

"Our South Asian immigrant community are the restaurant workers, taxi drivers, domestic workers, and grocery workers most deeply impacted by the pandemic  with many disconnected from resources due to low English and digital literacy," said Diya Basu-Sen, executive director at Sapna NYC. "This grant provided a much-needed injection of funds to meet their evolving needs, allowing us to provide over 177,800 pounds of culturally appropriate food, connect members to over $143,000 in emergency assistance, and aid an unprecedented influx in domestic violence survivors."

About Stand With Asians

Formed to protest the wave of anti-Asian hate crimes, Stand with Asians (SWA) is a global grassroots organization with members in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Shanghai, and Taipei. The organization drives awareness of the challenges facing the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. It was founded after a friend of a co-founder was brutally stabbed in the back multiple times while in Manhattan's Chinatown, losing his kidney in the process. SWA drives awareness of AAPI issues through grassroots efforts, including fundraising for nonprofits serving underserved AAPI communities, driving BIPOC solidarity efforts, increasing civic engagement, supporting rallies, promoting AAPI media representation, distributing self-defense resources, and more. For more information, please visit https://www.standwithasians.com/

About Endaoment

Endaoment is a California Public Benefit Corporation based in San Francisco, federally tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3). Endaoment serves as the decentralized finance industry's Community Foundation. Endaoment provides Donor-Advised Funds through its web application and will also steward a Community Endowment Fund powered by a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO). By creating a robust Community Foundation entity for the DeFi industry, Endaoment hopes to encourage the charitable giving of cryptocurrencies and the adoption of cryptocurrency technologies by nonprofit organizations. For more information visit https://endaoment.org/ .

About Uniswap:

Uniswap is a protocol for trading ERC-20 tokens on Ethereum. It removes intermediaries and unnecessary forms of rent extraction, allowing for fast, efficient trading. Uniswap prioritizes decentralization and security above all. The protocol has facilitated over $135bn in trading volume, and is the most popular application on Ethereum (by transaction count). Uniswap ranks as one of the largest cryptocurrency spot exchanges in the world.For more information, please visit uniswap.org

About pplpleasr:

Emily Yang or pplpleasr is a digital artist known for her collaborations with DeFi protocols such as Aave, Sushiswap, Yearn Finance and more. In the past, she has worked on movies such as Batman v Superman, Wonder Woman as well as the Diablo IV cinematic. Most recently, she is known for her work on the Uniswap v3 animation which sold for 310 ETH.

About James Jean:

James Jean is a multidisciplinary visual artist whose works explore imagination and reality through narrative-driven, layered compositions. Jean's work has been the subject of solo exhibitions in New York, Los Angeles, and Tokyo, among others. In 2019, Eternal Journey, a major retrospective of his work, was hosted by Lotte Museum of Art in Seoul.

About Arnold Tsang:

Arnold Tsang is a Canadian concept artist, illustrator, and animator. He's best known for his work on Udon Entertainment's Street Fighter comic series, as well as being the Character Art Director of Blizzard Entertainment's Overwatch. Most recently, he is known as the co-creator of AZUKI, an emerging web3 brand.

Contact:

Steffi Lau

[email protected]

SOURCE Endaoment
The former director of financial aid at Reynolds Community College was indicted by a federal grand jury Tuesday on charges of orchestrating a scheme spanning eight years that defrauded Virginia and the U.S. Department of Education of $379,608 in federal and state student loan funds.

Keisha Lashawn Pope, 47, is accused of using her access to Reynolds financial aid systems to boost the financial aid eligibility for several co-conspirators  her son, her former fiance, her goddaughter and a cousin  who were not eligible for aid at the college, authorities said.

The 10-count indictment alleges that Pope had kickback agreements in place with the co-conspirators to receive roughly half of the illegally obtained funds as compensation, which she used for personal expenses that included car repairs, retail shopping and expenses for her minor-aged daughter.

She stands charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, four counts of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identify theft.

Pope suddenly resigned from her position at Reynolds on Oct. 5, 2017, approximately two days after she was confronted by a supervisor about the alleged student aid fraud involving her goddaughter.

Eight months later, on June 18, 2018, she was hired by Virginia Union University as the schools director of undergraduate and graduate school financial aid services and scholarship programs. VUU spokesperson Pamela Cox said in an email Wednesday that Pope is no longer employed by the university, but didnt say when Pope left. We do not comment on personnel matters, she said.

With Popes manipulation of the Reynolds system, the four co-conspirators collectively received $246,450 in federal financial aid funds and $133,158 in state financial aid from about 2011 through 2018, to unlawfully enrich themselves.

Pope concealed the failures of parties to earn satisfactory academic performance to receive financial aid, or their lack of eligibility to continue to receiving aid, along with spending the illicitly acquired funds for non-educational purposes, according to the indictment.

For example, Pope procured financial aid for her son knowing he was not attending Reynolds in the 2011-17 time frame, authorities alleged in the indictment. In another instance, Pope obtained financial aid for her ex-fiance from about 2010 through 2015 while he was incarcerated in the Sussex County Jail and not attending the college, the indictment alleges.

Pope is accused of falsifying supporting documentation for the financial aid that she procured for the co-conspirators. In one case, Pope forged medical documents from Virginia Commonwealth University Health Systems, along with financial aid documents, that indicated her goddaughter had failed to meet academic eligibility due to a breast cancer diagnosis, knowing that was false. She also falsely stated to her supervisor that she was not related to her goddaughter, according to the indictment.

Popes lies were designed to conceal Popes improper use of student aid funds, the indictment says.

Federal financial aid applications submitted by Pope and the co-conspirators resulted in Reynolds issuing refund disbursements, consisting of federal and Virginia financial aid, to Popes son, goddaughter, cousin and former fiance, authorities said in the indictment.

Pope would then receive a portion of the proceeds from the parties in a variety of ways. She directed her cousin and former fiance to cash their disbursement checks and remit a portion to her; she directed her goddaughter to initiate PayPal payments to Pope; and a disbursement prepaid card issued to her son was used to pay Popes personal expenses directly, according to the indictment.

The indictment further alleges that around September through October 2017, Reynolds officials confronted Pope about her relationship with the academically ineligible students receiving high amounts of financial aid.

In those conversations, Pope is alleged to have claimed not to know these students, when such students were, in fact, Popes son, goddaughter and cousin, authorities said in a statement. Pope allegedly claimed that all such students had supporting justification for receiving continued financial aid, but when pressed for the documentation, Pope resigned.

Pope was hired by Reynolds in 2006. The leadership of J. Sargents financial aid office  as well as college leaders responsible for its oversight during the time of the theft  are no longer employed, said Joe Schilling, the colleges director of communications.

New leadership of the financial aid office has been in place since March of 2018 and has worked diligently to ensure the integrity of all aspects of our financial aid operations, Schilling said in an email. Reynolds is in full compliance with the U.S. Department of Education to participate in the administration of federal financial aid.

Reynolds Community College has fully cooperated with relevant law enforcement organizations as part of the investigation referenced by the U.S. Attorneys Office, he added.
SEATTLE, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Communities In Schools (CIS) announced today philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has made a transformative $133.5 million gift to the Communities In Schools network, the largest, unrestricted gift in CIS history. This unprecedented gift includes a collective $5.85 million given to Communities In Schools of Washington and three Washington state CIS affiliates: CIS of Benton-Franklin, CIS of Peninsula and CIS of Renton-Tukwila.

"We believe these gifts speak to our record of proven success in building sustainable systems of support inside public schools by putting students in the center and surrounding them with a caring community," said CIS Washington State Director Erin McCallum. "It also speaks to our work striving for educational and racial equity, which was clearly important to this donor."

At a time when the global pandemic has particularly hurt students with fewer community resources or adequate supports, this investment will help CIS to carry out its mission to break down the systemic barriers that stand in the way of opportunity and student success.

"We are grateful this amazing gift will help us to strengthen our CIS Network and Youth Development partners across Washington so that we are able to empower every student in our state to break through the personal challenges that stand between them and an equitable path to education," McCallum said. "With fifteen CIS affiliates working locally and regionally across Washington State with schools and community partners, we want to ensure students have what they need to realize their full potential in school and beyond."

For decades, Communities In Schools has demonstrated measurable success in student outcomes.During the 2020-2021 school year, 99 percent of students enrolled in CIS programs remained in school through the end of the school year, with 96 percent of K-11 students being promoted to the next grade and 93 percent of seniors graduating or receiving a GED. "But with over 1.1 million Washington students the need is great, and we must do more," added McCallum.

CIS believes that transformative relationships are key to unlocking a student's potential. Our school-based staff works inside schools partnering with teachers and parents to help address the needs of students. Working with schools and local service providers, CIS coordinates critical resources for students and families including food, housing, healthcare, counseling, access to remote technology, all while supporting students in their school attendance, behavior and academics. By identifying the points of challenge for students in their personal lives, CIS staff helps to empower students to move beyond the barriers they face in the school building and in the community.

"Today is an important day for students who are underserved, under-resourced, and in need of support to build a brighter future," said Rey Saldana, President and CEO of Communities In Schools nationally. "This unrestricted gift allows us to combat the inequities in public education and reimagine the way schools operate and show up for all students. Our National goal is to bring our model inside of every one of the 70,000 Title I-eligible schools in the country; currently, we operate in 3,000 schools  so we still have a long way to go, and we will need ongoing support to get there."

For more information about CIS, the donation and other visual and written assets, please access this Google Drive. WA State interview requests can be made to Lee Keller at (206) 799-3805  text or call or [email protected]. National media requests can be made to Anya Harrington, Communities In Schools National Office, 703-518-2598, [email protected].

About Communities In Schools Nationally and in Washington State

Communities In Schools (CIS) is a national organization that ensures every student, regardless of race, zip code, or socioeconomic background, has what they need to realize their potential in school and beyond. Working directly inside 3,000 schools across the country, we connect students to caring adults and community resources that help them see, confront, and overcome the barriers that stand between them and a brighter future. In Washington State, our 3,499 case-managed students show outstanding progress with 98 percent staying in school, 82 percent improved attendance, 93 percent improved behavior and 89 percent improved coursework. Together, we build a powerful change movement made up of peers, students, and alumni committed to building an equitable path to education for future generations. Check out Communities In Schools Washington at www.ciswa.org.

Contact:

Lee Keller

[email protected]

(206) 799-3805

SOURCE Communities In Schools Washington State
By Brendan O'Brien

CHICAGO (Reuters) - A massive winter storm swept across the central and Northeast United States on Thursday where it was delivering heavy snow and ice, making travel treacherous if not impossible, knocking out power to thousands and closing schools in several states.

Winter and ice storm warnings remained in effect for a wide swathe of the United States that reached from Texas up through the Midwest and into New England until Friday morning, the National Weather Service (NWS) said.

More than 100 million people across at least 25 states were under winter weather alerts on Thursday, CNN reported.

After the storm dumped heavy snow on the Midwest on Wednesday, parts of the region were forecast to see another 6 inches (15 cm) of snow on Thursday, accompanied by high winds of up to 35 miles (56 km) per hour.

The storm wreaked havoc on air travel as more than 4,000 U.S. flights were canceled by midday, Flightaware.com reported. Some 2,000 flights were canceled in and out of Dallas airports alone.

A damaging ice storm was underway in portions of Texas, Arkansas, Kentucky and Tennessee. More than a half inch of ice may accumulate by Friday morning in some spots, possibly causing power outages, tree damage and dangerous travel conditions, the weather service warned.

"Everything will freeze overnight and heighten the potential for black ice tomorrow," The Arkansas Department of Transportation warned in a tweet.

More than 220,000 homes and businesses in Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee were without power on Thursday afternoon, Poweroutages.us reported.

"No power here in Walnut Grove Lake but I've got beer, firewood, food and a good sleeping bag. I just don't want frozen pipes," retired Navy senior chief Paul Stack said on Twitter.

Texas governor Greg Abbott said on Thursday that the state's power grid is "fully functioning and continues to be reliable."

Last winter, a deadly deep freeze crippled the grid, leaving millions without power.

Story continues

"Texas is experiencing one of the most significant ice events in decades," Abbott said.

School districts in several states including Texas, Michigan and Ohio canceled classes on Thursday. Dallas closed schools attended by 145,000 students for Thursday and Friday.

The storm will push temperatures down. Highs in many places across the Plains and Mississippi Valley will be between 20-40 degrees below average over the next few days, the NWS said.

(Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Chicago; additional reporting by Maria Caspani in New York; Editing by Mark Porter and Rosalba O'Brien)
SIOUX CITY -- Daily medicine, fevers, cuts and bruises and COVID-19 tests are just a few of the things Mary Mason sees each day as a school nurse in Sioux City Community School District.

Providing care for 1,400 students in West High School as well as the students in Liberty Elementary School when needed keeps her more than busy.

Mornings usually start with giving daily medications, checking in with students and parents, and recently, administering COVID-19 tests.

Mason has been a school nurse in Sioux City for 16 years. She started her career in the emergency room, worked in intensive care, post-critical and medical clinics. She had become interested in being a school nurse and saw it as a new challenge.

COVID-19 changed the way school nurses operate. The nurses attended various training sessions and started new cleaning procedures.

School district purchased rapid COVID-19 tests for school nurses to administer. Mason said the number of tests they are doing has increased as the countywide case numbers have increased.

Mason she likes having the ability to administer the tests and hopes more will utilize the opportunity.

While some kids are sent to the nurse because of various medical issues, Mason said other stop by just to have someone to talk to.

She said some kids need someone who is unbiased to talk about issues in their life.

The school nurses play a variety of different roles including educator, friend, counselor and more, Mason said, but they are always supported and helped by the other school staff.

The students are Mason's favorite part of the job.

"I cry with people, I laugh with people, I get emotional," she said.

One day a child broke his arm at Liberty toward the end of the day and Mason could tell it was a bad break. She said he did not speak much English but she stayed with him and talked while they were waiting for an ambulance.

"I just started crying," she said.

She keeps a notebook of students she wants to follow up with to check in if they are sick or injured.

One of the challenges can be parents. She said many times parents just need someone to help work through an issue.

Overall, Mason said the career is very rewarding. She can build relationships with students, parents and staff.

"They feel comfortable enough to call me if they need something, which I like because it helps me know I've made a difference," Mason said.
Two Aurora police officers who exchanged gunfire with a suspect during a standoff in July will not face charges, the 18th Judicial District Attorney's Office announced Wednesday.

Jeffrey Moralez was not shot during the incident, but was injured by debris that likely came from his improvised barricade.

Officials determined he "demonstrated a willingness to seriously injure or kill the officers or others in the vicinity." As a result, the officers will not be charged, according to a report from the 18th Judicial District's Critical Incident Response Team.

Police knew Moralez had mental health issues and owned guns, according to the report.

Officers were sent to the Chaparral Condominiums around 8:40 p.m. July 12 for reports that Moralez was harassing residents. Moralez lived in the complex, according to the report.

Moralez approached one of the officers and complained that they were trespassing. He then went back to his condo.

Officers heard a gun being "racked" and then Moralez came out of the condo shirtless and armed with a handgun. Officers drew their weapons and commanded him to put his hands up and drop the weapon. They told him they were there to just talk.

Moralez ignored the commands and said he'd "make an example of the Aurora police." He then went back into the complex.

Around 10:30 p.m., officers noticed Moralez was holding "a long object," which appeared to be a rifle. They then heard what sounded like the gun being loaded, according to the report.

Moralez kneeled on the ground in a shooting stance and pointed the object in the direction of the officers. Authorities did not fire, but moved behind parked vehicles for cover and activated the police department's SWAT team.

Moralez began barricading his home, and officials heard items moving inside his condo. Police asked the Arapahoe County and Douglas County sheriff's offices to send their Lenco BearCat armored vehicle to assist.

While this was happening, Moralez called the dispatch centers for the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office, Colorado State Patrol and Buckley Space Force Base and said police impostors were harassing him and pointed a gun in his face, according to the report.

Moralez told negotiators with the Aurora Police Department that "if SWAT comes in through the door, I have magazines with more than 15 rounds in it," according to the report.

Authorities obtained an arrest warrant around 3:30 a.m. and the SWAT team deployed flash bangs and tear gas to try to get him to surrender. Instead, Moralez opened fire.

Authorities moved the armored vehicle into the area where Moralez was shooting to try to put tear gas into his condo. However, it became partially stuck in the grass.

Moralez then fired a number of rounds into its windshield. Despite having difficulty seeing into Moralez's condo, officers Nicholas Wilson and Travis Brady fired 10 shots, which led to Moralez yelling, "I give up," according to the report.

After being released from the Aurora Medical Center, Moralez was arrested and charged with 30 crimes including attempted murder of a peace officer, felony menacing and assault.
The Government of India attaches the highest priority to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen, said Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan on Thursday. Answering unstarred questions in Rajya Sabha on the surge in incidents of attacks on Tamil fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy, the minister said, "There have been recent incidents of attacks on Tamil fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy. As soon as reports of alleged attacks on Indian fishermen are received, the Government through diplomatic channels takes up the matter with the Government of Sri Lanka." He said that issues relating to Indian fishermen have been raised at the highest levels, including by our Prime Minister with the Sri Lankan Prime Minister during the Virtual Bilateral Summit held in September 2020. "In 2021, during his visit to Colombo from 5-7 January, External Affairs Minister (EAM) had met the Minister of Fisheries of Sri Lanka and discussed all issues related to Indian fishermen. The issue was also taken up in Foreign Secretary's discussions with the Sri Lankan dignitaries during his visit to Sri Lanka from 2-5 October 2021," said Muraleedharan. In his reply, the minister said that the need to deal with issues pertaining to fishermen in a humanitarian manner was reiterated to the Government of Sri Lanka. It was also stressed that existing understandings between the two Governments in that regard must be strictly observed and both sides should ensure that there was no use of force under any circumstances. "Government of India attaches the highest priority to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. Following the 2+2 initiative in November 2016, when the Foreign and Fisheries Ministers of the two countries met in New Delhi, a bilateral Joint Working Group (JWG) mechanism and meeting of the Ministers for Fisheries of the two countries was institutionalized to address the fishermen issues with Sri Lanka," he said. (ANI)
Graphical abstract. Credit: DOI: 10.1172/JCI152509

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have discovered a molecule in the lungs of tuberculosis (TB) patients that reflects the levels of TB-causing bacteria in the lungs, information needed to better address the notoriously difficult to treat disease.

The findings, published Feb. 1 in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, could be a step toward more tailored treatment regimens and better outcomes for TB patients.

Most of the 10 million people who develop TB every year undergo months of treatment with multiple antibiotics, and despite the onerous drug regimen, roughly 5% of TB patients relapse within two years. Doctors don't have a good way to track levels of bacteria in their lungs, so instead they monitor symptoms.

But the new research identifies a molecule in people with active TB and shows that levels of this molecule are higher in those with more severe infections. The molecule is a derivative of cholesterol known as cholestenone.

"It's hard to guide clinical care and make treatment decisions when you don't have a good way to measure whether you're really reducing the amount of bacteria," said senior author Jennifer A. Philips, MD, Ph.D., an associate professor of medicine and of molecular microbiology. "Lessened coughing, lower fevers, weight gain and overall feeling stronger are all good signs that what you are doing is working, but they are not proof that the bacteria have been eliminated. Some of the drugs that we use have a lot of toxicity, and we have to use multiple drugs for a long time. We're probably overtreating a whole bunch of people, but we can't distinguish the people who could stop taking them early from the people who need to go longer, or they're going to relapse."

Like all living things, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes TB, has to eat. It consumes chemical compounds and releases byproducts as it breaks the compounds down for energy, a process known as metabolism. Philips and colleaguesincluding co-first authors Pallavi Chandra, an instructor in medicine with a doctorate in microbiology, and Heloise Coullon, a researcher with doctorates in pharmacy and microbiologyreasoned that they might be able to identify infected cells and people by detecting the presence of byproducts of bacterial metabolism.

To search for such compounds, the researchers infected mouse cells with TB bacteria and then used mass spectrometry to identify metabolic compounds released over the next five days. Some cells were left uninfected for comparison. The researchers found more than 30 compounds that distinguished infected from uninfected cells. One of the most striking differences was in levels of cholestenone, a byproduct of bacterial cholesterol metabolism. TB bacteria can metabolize cholesterol, but they do not make it themselves; they acquire it from people during infection. People also metabolize cholesterol but through a different process that doesn't generate cholestenone. Thus, cholestenone is a unique co-metabolite produced by bacteria during infection, making it a promising candidate to identify people with active cases of TB and measure the quantity of bacteria in their lungs.

The researchers studied 80 people, half in Vietnam and half in Peru, where TB is more common than in the U.S. All participants had symptoms of lung infection such as fevers, coughing and weight loss, but only half had TB. The remaining 40 people20 from each countryhad other reasons for their symptoms, such as other kinds of lung infections.

With the help of Xuntian Jiang, Ph.D., an assistant professor of medicine and director of the Washington University Metabolomics Facility, the researchers analyzed sputum samples, produced deep in the lungs, from all 80 participants. The TB patients had significantly higher levels of cholestenone in their sputum than people without TB. And among the TB patients, those with more TB bacteria in their lungs had higher levels of cholestenone.

Sputum isn't ideal for monitoring levels of TB bacteria in the lungs because acquiring it for analysis requires that the patient cough intensely to bring it up from deep in the lungs and then spit it out. Some people, especially children, simply can't manage it. But blood tests are a routine part of medical care. If TB patients have high levels of cholestenone in the blood like they do in sputum, it might be possible to create a blood-based way to measure TB bacteria levels and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

Philips and colleagues tested cholestenone levels in blood samples from all 80 participants. Of the people in Peru, the researchers were able to distinguish those with and without TB by their blood cholestenone levels. Of those in Vietnam, however, levels were not different between the two groups.

"It's really exciting to find a difference in the levels in the patients in Peru," Philips said. "We are really interested in understanding what is different about the two populations because then we might be able to find a different cholesterol metabolite to measure that is a blood biomarker of bacterial levels in all TB patients. There could be a lot of reasons why it worked in Peru but not Vietnam. It may be due to differences between people in Vietnam and Peru in terms of their genetics or the bacteria in their microbiomes. The TB bacteria themselves are of different lineages in Peru and in Vietnam, so that may be a factor, too. We're continuing this project and exploring as many of these possibilities as we can."

Explore further Cholestenone shows antibiotic properties against H. pylori

More information: Pallavi Chandra et al, Macrophage global metabolomics identifies cholestenone as host/pathogen cometabolite present in human Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, Journal of Clinical Investigation (2022). Journal information: Journal of Clinical Investigation Pallavi Chandra et al, Macrophage global metabolomics identifies cholestenone as host/pathogen cometabolite present in human Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection,(2022). DOI: 10.1172/JCI152509
OWINGS MILLS, Md., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Minority Health Association (NMHA), the leading national health-equity advocacy organization, announced today that it surpassed 60,112 COVID-19 vaccine shots in its Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA)-funded Flex for Checks program and has stopped accepting new registrations.

Since its launch, the Flex for Checks program was integral in successfully delivering tens of thousands of vaccine shots across the United States. With a goal of helping diverse populations in traditionally under-represented communities, the NMHA is proud to announce the achievement of several key success factors:



Delivering more than 60,000 vaccine shots.

Targeting within 12 lower-vaccine states, but rewarding shots throughout all 50 states.

80% of vaccine rewards went to minority populations including African American, Asian, Hispanic and others where vaccine hesitancy is higher than average.

"We are thankful to have been of service to the many valuable partners that joined us to increase COVID-19 vaccinations throughout our communities," said Burgess Harrison, executive director, NMHA. "While we have ended the acceptance of new registrations into the Flex for Checks program, we realize that our work is not yet done. As the pandemic continues, it is now more important than ever to become vaccinated. We look forward to continuing to work with HRSA on COVID-19 efforts targeted to underserved communities."



The Flex for Checks program was also responsible for bringing together nearly 2,000 home health agencies and pharmacies to inspire and serve their local communities in the fight against COVID-19. The program was integral in protecting more than 7,000 health care workers who touch on average, about five different patients per week, or more than 1,750,000 patients, clients and consumers per year.

One such agency, Elara Caring, was a trusted partner throughout the duration of the program.

"Elara Caring is committed to a safe environment for our workers and providing the highest level of care to our home bound clients, especially those in underserved communities", said Jamie Wright, PCS Regional Vice President. "We are proud to have been a partner with NMHA on this worthy program."

The Flex for Checks website will remain available to provide access to important resources that can assist community health workers, and members of our communities, in making informed decisions about vaccinations. The COVID-Scape risk assessment tool will also remain active to help individuals further evaluate their risk of infection.

Earlier this year, Flex for Checks was launched as a result of a $11.1 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop and support a community-based workforce that would serve as trusted voices in sharing information about COVID-19 vaccines, increase vaccine confidence, and address barriers to vaccination for those living in vulnerable and medically underserved communities.

In addition to support from the countless home care agencies and home healthcare workers, the program also received national support and endorsement from celebrities and minority health advocates such as noted medical commentator Dr. Ian Smith, and music industry powerhouse Dr. Mathew Knowles.

As patients with the Omicron and Delta variants continue to fill hospitals across the nation, the NMHA remains committed to empowering thousands of home healthcare workers and promoting the need for vaccinations nationwide.

"We have received countless notes of support and gratitude from people throughout the country expressing their appreciation of our innovative Flex for Checks program," said Harrison. "I am extremely proud of the positive impact we were able to have in our communities and our ability to help reduce health inequities, disparities and biases. By being effective and efficient stewards of the HRSA grant award, we believe that our efforts helped save the lives of thousands from the potentially devasting effects of COVID-19."

Additionally, the NMHA is building on the momentum from its HRSA grant and continuing the work even after concluding the Flex for Checks program, all in an effort to support HRSA's mission of "providing equitable health care to people who are geographically isolated and economically or medically vulnerable," which fits closely with the NMHA's mission of health equity.

About NMHA. The National Minority Health Association, founded in 1988 by Dr. David L. Dalton, Chairman, and CEO, UNIVEC Conglomerate, Inc. (UNVC), achieved its initial mission of ensuring the establishment of Offices of Minority Health in all 50 states. Today the NMHA is adding to its mission, adminstiring an $11.1M HRSA grant to reduce vaccine hesitancy, and deploying new programs that utilize patient-centered, value-based care, and new ways of enhancing care to patients where they are, lowering costs, and improving outcomes for minority and underserved communities. To find out more, visit www.theNMHA.org. Become a member of the NMHA Health Equity Action Leaders network (HEAL) and join the fight for health equity. https://www.thenmha.org/donation. Help build confidence in the vaccine www.GoFundMe.com/thenmha .

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $11.1million. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit HRSA.gov.

For More Information

John Gonda

616-309-4888

[email protected]

SOURCE National Minority Health Association
A new omicron variant is already in Massachusetts, according to reports.

BA.2 is thought to be even more transmissible than omicron and better at evading vaccines, but there is no evidence to suggest it's more severe  some research has even shown cases to be milder than the delta strain, which had once been the dominant strain in the world.

The new variant has earned the nickname "stealth omicron" because it's hard to distinguish from the initial omicron strain.

Dr. Jacob Lemieux, a doctor at Massachusetts General Hospital, told WBUR BA.2 cases will likely increase in the state after data at his hospital showed the variant had arrived.

"So it looks like BA.2 may decelerate the drop-off in cases and may lead to some ongoing transmission," Lemieux told WBUR, "but its probably not going to radically reshape the pandemic in the way that BA.1 did."

A recent Danish study found transmission rates among the unvaccinated were higher compared to omicron, while fully vaccinated people were less likely to spread it to others. People who are boosted are even less likely to transmit it.

Most U.S. states have confirmed BA.2, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said still make up a very low number of cases in the country.

A top infectious disease doctor told The New York Times "stealth omicron" may not spark another spike in cases, but may drag out the current one even longer.

This article originally appeared on the Boston Patch
The Daily Beast

KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty ImagesVladimir Putins defense minister sent a clear message to the people of Russia on Wednesday: Their country is at war not just with Ukraine, but with the entirety of the West.I cannot but emphasize the fact that today, we are at war not so much with Ukraine and the Ukrainian army as with the collective West, Sergei Shoigu said in a televised speech, according to TASS.At this point, we are really at war with the collective West, with NATO, Shoigu added.Sh
AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LumApps , a leading Employee Experience Platform, today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire HeyAxel , a powerful no-code HR automation and employee onboarding solution. The acquisition builds upon LumApps' continued growth and promises to accelerate the delivery of LumApps' unique vision: an entirely personalized experience for each employee.

The HeyAxel solution will be fully integrated with LumApps' Employee Experience Platform. The integration of the two products and teams will accelerate LumApps' employee journeys roadmap with an additional team of experts plus an adaptable, omnichannel orchestration engine, broadcast capabilities, quizzes, surveys, and HeyAxel's out-of-the-box journey builder.

"The acquisition of HeyAxel allows us to take an innovative step forward in our product development by adding an easy-to-use journey engine that makes it simple to create personalized, smart, and integrated journeys. Our customers will be able to deliver tailored information and insights to their employees at every stage of their tenure to improve engagement and promote positive experiences," said Sebastien Ricard, CEO at LumApps.

An Employee Journey is an orchestrated set of communications, information, and activities that are designed to inspire action, promote engagement and maximize the Employee Experience at a certain point in the employee lifecycle. Personalized communications throughout the employee lifecycle can have a significant positive impact on engagement, motivation, and long-term success in the workplace.

With HeyAxel's no-code tooling, LumApps will develop additional prebuilt journeys making it simple for enterprises to tailor their journeys at each step of the entire employee lifecycle. LumApps customers will also be able to quickly and easily develop their own employee journeys to fit the unique needs of their employees and organizations.

"HeyAxel's no-code platform enables HR managers to easily create specific journeys like onboarding and career milestones," said Arnaud Weiss, CEO and Co-founder at HeyAxel. "Joining LumApps will enable us to create additional components for all the various stages throughout an individual's tenure. This merger signifies the clear convergence in our vision of putting employees at center stage and ensuring cutting-edge and best-in-class journeys in an employee experience platform."

"HeyAxel provides great value by improving the onboarding journey for our new employees and streamlining work automation. LumApps has been positioned as a leader in its industry by well-known analysts, powering internal communications for many large, global enterprises throughout the world. We are convinced LumApps and HeyAxel together will strengthen the digital employee experience by providing a personalized and holistic solution." Laura Nepert, Head of Recruiting at Renault Digital.

Read our blog post for more information on the acquisition and LumApps Journeys.

About LumApps

LumApps is a leading Employee Experience Platform first launched in 2015 to unify the modern workforce through better communication, engagement, and instant access to information. Integrated with Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, LumApps intelligently connects people, information, and business applications to empower employees and enhance productivity. The product tailors each experience to the unique needs of the employee, from executives and managers to frontline workers. LumApps is a true SaaS platform designed to scale to the needs of today's largest enterprises and is easily accessible across any device or language.

With over 250 people in 7 offices located on three continents, LumApps serves prominent companies like Veolia, Airbus, Valeo, Air Liquide, The Economist and Electronic Arts, supporting more than 4 million users worldwide. To fuel its continued rapid growth and enhance the capabilities of its platform, LumApps has raised $70M in a Series C round in 2020. Learn more at www.lumapps.com

Media Contact:

Andrea LePain

eMediaJunction

[email protected]

617-275-8112

SOURCE LumApps
India on Thursday dismissed Pakistan media reports that New Delhi was responsible for the delay in the approval of Masood Khan's appointment as Pakistan's Ambassador to the United States. Speaking at a weekly media briefing, the External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "It is preposterous to blame a third country for the delay in appointment of one country to another." Masood Khan's nomination was sent to Washington by Pakistan Foreign Office in November last year. Media reports say the US deliberately delayed the approval of Pakistan's ambassador-designate's posting in Washington and sought more time for his approval. Earlier this week, a US Congressman has raised grave concern about the appointment of Masood Khan as Pakistan's Ambassador to the United States. In a letter to US President Joe Biden, Congressman Scott Perry had asked Biden to reject Masood's appointment, stating that Imran Khan's nomination of a bona fide "terrorist sympathiser" Congressman Perry added that Masood Khan can only be described as a "breathtaking lack of judgment at best," and "a demonstration of Islamabad's unmitigated contempt for the United States at worst." "While I am encouraged that the State Department has reportedly placed a pause on approving Masood Khan as the new Ambassador from Pakistan, a pause is not enough. I urge you to reject any diplomatic credentials presented to you by Masood Khan and reject any effort by the Government of Pakistan to install this jihadist as Pakistan's Ambassador to the United States," Scott Perry said in his letter to Biden. Perry said that Masood Khan is a supporter of the terrorist groups Jamaat-e-Islami, as well as Helping Hand for Relief and Development, a group that had no qualms establishing a partnership with the foreign terrorist organisation responsible for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. A US-based think tank also urged Biden to reject Pakistan's appointment of the 'Jihadi-terrorist-sympathizer', Masood Khan, as Pakistan's ambassador to the United States. Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), in its press release, said that the diplomatic role of Masood Khan in the United States may open an avenue for access for terrorist organisations to US institutions. (ANI)
Deer, Canada geese, beavers, opossum and herons are among the many animals gracing the walls of the Dodge County Center for the Arts in its latest exhibit.

The collaborative Wisconsin Wildlife show features a vast selection of work from area photographers, most of whom are new contributors to the art center.

DCCA gallery coordinator Kayla Ramirez said she came upon the idea for the exhibit after joining the Facebook group Wisconsin Wildlife Photography, which has more than 20,000 members.

The social media group describes itself as one designed to showcase both seasoned and fresh photographers, the wonderful wildlife they capture, and the stories they have to go with their images.

I joined it just to see all the beautiful pictures, but then I couldnt shake the thought of Wow, we really need to show these photos to people, she said.

She reached out to the group to gauge interest and found artists who said yes immediately to having their work exhibited.

We have over 90 photographs from a dozen photographers on display. Its really exciting and neat to see the differences in technique and choice of subjects, she said.

Gallery attendees may recognize the locations in the photographs from around the state, with some calling attention to the birds that live in the Horicon Marsh.

Works vary in size from 5x7 prints to four-foot canvases. All of the photographs are for sale, with prices starting around $20. One of the artists has made childrens books using her images.

Nature and wildlife photographers whose art is highlighted in the exhibit include: Brian Wolf, Frank Mittelstadt, Nick Weston, Danielle Weston, Melissa Webb, Kathy Stoltz, Andy Raupp, Christopher Namowitz, Linda Westley, Michael Vanevenhoven, Noah Christian and Michael Lena.

An opening reception for the Wisconsin Wildlife exhibit will be held Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Dodge County Center for the Arts, 130 W. Maple Ave., Beaver Dam. The public is invited to stop in for refreshments and meet some of the local artists.

The exhibit is free to attend and runs throughout the month of February during DCCAs regular open hours, Thursdays and Fridays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m.

For more information, go to dodgecountyarts.com.
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaplow Communications, a leading strategic brand marketing, public relations and influencer marketing agency, celebrates a successful 30 years, including the elevation of three senior staff to executive roles, with excitement for the new year.

"As we look back on a year filled with unprecedented growth across all our categories, we recognize the important role our leadership has played in this success," said Liz Kaplow, Founder and CEO of Kaplow Communications. "This is why we continue to pride ourselves on promoting great talent from within, fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and enthusiasm."

Kaplow Communications has long been recognized as an independently owned, female-founded, family-first agency, encouraging employees to build long-term careers and grow into best-in-class communications leaders. In the new year, the agency has plans to continue its growth through client and service offering expansion. Kaplow also revamped its digital presence with a new website and looks forward to a successful 2022.

"We can't wait to see where the new year takes us," said Liz Kaplow. "As we inch into our 31st year, we are filled with gratitude and appreciation for our employees and clients."

The recent promotions include:

Samara Finn Holland, Executive Vice President, Growth and Strategic Initiatives

Samara Finn Holland has a track record of driving innovation, overseeing business growth and propelling managerial excellence. In addition to leading Kaplow's influencer marketing division, which celebrated significant growth in 2021, she is now responsible for expanding client services, designing bespoke staff development programs, and elevating the agency's external industry visibility.

Claire Nilsson, Executive Vice President, Head of Beauty

Claire Nilsson has spearheaded the growth of the beauty practice, developing and executing integrated marketing campaigns, strategic partnerships, thought leadership, influencer marketing and celebrity management to deliver award-winning work for Kaplow's beauty roster, which includes CVS Beauty, Dermstore, Bluemercury, Ralph Lauren Fragrances, among others.

Jee Nah Chang Walker, Executive Vice President, Head of Lifestyle

Jee Nah Chang Walker  an 11-year veteran of Kaplow  has led the lifestyle group to unprecedented growth over the past year. As the longest standing member of the Kaplow leadership team, Jee Nah has a proven track record of delivering business-driving results and consumer love for the most recognizable names in lifestyle and retail, including Target, Fidelity Investments, Stanley and Resident. Jee Nah is also a founding member of Kaplow's DE&I Taskforce.

In addition, the Kaplow team is celebrating industry honors from Ragan's PR Daily, including the Activist Campaign award for our work with the Alliance for Inclusive and Multicultural Marketing (AIMM - a branch of the Association of National Advertisers) on the 'HERE' #SeeALL Emmy's program. Kaplow also received honorable mentions in the DE&I Communications category for the aforementioned work with AIMM and in the Influencer Campaign category for CVS Pharmacy's Beauty & Wellness Programming.

About Kaplow Communications

Kaplow Communications, a next-generation communications agency in New York City, specializes in conceptualizing and executing integrated campaigns that change conversations in today's digital world. Kaplow's award-winning programs include brand strategy, media relations, influencer marketing, thought leadership and executive visibility, reaching consumers at every touch point and creating an emotional bond that drives loyalty and brand love. For information, call 212-221-1713 or visit http://www.kaplow.com/our-services.

SOURCE Kaplow Communications
After months of speculation, Foxtel has announced the first two cast members for its upcoming Celebrity Gogglebox special.

Australian power couple Hamish Blake and his wife Zoe Foster-Blake have agreed to be part of the new series, according to TV Tonight.

Securing Hamish, 40, is a massive win for Foxtel and Channel Ten given that he's signed as host of Lego Masters on rival network Nine.

New gig! Australian power couple Hamish Blake, 40, and his wife Zoe Foster, 41, have agreed to be part of the new series, according to TV Tonight

While rumours have been swirling about possible celebrity candidates, Foxtels Executive Director of Television Brian Walsh insists that getting the casting mix right is crucial.

'We agreed right at the very beginning that this would not be a self-serving, promotional exercise for Foxtel or 10. Its easy to throw celebrities at a show. Theres a lot of that on Australian commercial television. But we were only interested in the A-Team for Celebrity Gogglebox,' he said.

Daily Mail Australia understands that the star-studded edition will be a one-off TV event that will air in March ahead of Gogglebox Australia's 15th season.

Win: Securing Hamish, 40, is a massive win for Foxtel and Channel Ten given that he's signed as host of Lego Masters on rival network Nine

It's happening! While rumours have been swirling about possible celebrity candidates, Foxtels Executive Director of Television Brian Walsh insists that getting the casting mix right is crucial. Pictured is Gogglebox Australia stars Keith and Lee

More names are set to be announced for the program in the coming weeks.

Personalities who have long been rumoured to be attached to the project include Anthony Callea and his husband Tim Campbell, and fashion designer Alex Perry.

Back in September, a source at Endemol Shine told Daily Mail Australia that several well-known 'colourful personalities' had been contacted about appearing on the show.

Could they be cast? The full star-studded cast of couch critics is yet to be announced for the program. Anthony Callea and his husband Tim Campbell (both pictured) are rumoured to be attached to the project

According to the insider, producers are looking for famous duos rather than casting celebs and throwing them together as a 'household'.

'Several past cast members from Married At First Sight, Beauty and the Geek and MasterChef are on the whiteboard,' said the spy.

The special celebrity edition of Gogglebox was announced as part of Foxtel's Upfronts for new and returning shows in 2022.

He'll definitely have something to say! Another famous face who has also been rumoured to be cast as a couch critic is fashion designer Alex Perry

Earlier this year, Endemol Shine announced it had started casting for the new season of Gogglebox on MyCastingNet.

'We are always on the lookout for fresh, inspiring and unique talent that will surprise and delight us and our viewers,' the notice, which is still available to apply for, read.

Producers are looking for Australian citizens or permanent residents who live in Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast or Melbourne.

Calling all couch potatoes! Earlier this year, Endemol Shine announced it had started casting for the new season of Gogglebox on MyCastingNet. 'We are always on the lookout for fresh, inspiring and unique talent that will surprise and delight us and our viewers,' the notice read

Application: Auditions opened after it was announced two families - The Delpechitra and Elias family - wouldn't be returning this year. Pictured: the Delpechitra family

To apply, potential Goggleboxers need to fill out an application form with pictures and videos of their household to show where they watch TV.

Auditions opened after it was announced two families - The Delpechitra and Elias family - wouldn't be returning this year.

Five of the six original Gogglebox households all signed up for the current season, including art dealers Mick and Di Kershaw, grandparents Lee and Keith, best friends Anastasia Katselas and Faye Kontos, and the Dalton family.

Brother-and-sister duo Tim and Leanne Lai will also return, as will teachers Milo and Nic.
VEDGEco.com, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vejii Holdings is an online distributor for plant-based foods, servicing restaurants and independent grocers, and saw nearly 25% of its January repeat customers use the platform's new automatic reorder functionality

VANCOUVER BC, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Vejii Holdings Ltd. (CSE: VEJI) (OTC: VEJIF) ("the Company'' or "Vejii"), a North American online marketplace for plant-based and sustainable products, announced today that through its wholly-owned subsidiary VEDGEco USA Inc. ("VEDGEco" or "VEDGEco.com"), the Company launched its improved subscription-based buying functionality for restaurants and independent grocers across North America.

"VEDGEco's platform makes it possible for the restaurants and grocers we serve to enable automatic re-ordering and ensure that they have the products they want and need on time for their customers. On-time delivery is particularly important for restaurants, which often have a set menu that requires consistent ingredients," said Trevor Hitch, CEO of VEDGEco. "This functionality not only offers additional savings and peace of mind to our customers, but also allows us to better forecast demand and optimize our operations."

With the acquisition of VEDGEco, the percentage of orders using this automatic reordering functionality on the platform is continually increasing. In January alone, Vejii reports that approximately 25% of its repeat B2B orders were placed using this subscription service for purchasing.

"There is clear demand from our B2B clients, as they are not only seeking access to a wide range of exceptional plant-based products, but also that they are leveraging tools like our new auto-reorder functionality to ensure that they can count on consistent, quality service every time," said Kory Zelickson, CEO of Vejii.

About Vejii Holdings Ltd.

Headquartered in Kelowna B.C, Vejii is a unified digital marketplace and fulfillment platform featuring thousands of plant-based and sustainable-living products from a growing list of hundreds of vendors. The platform offers an easy-to-use, omnichannel experience for both vendors and buyers, leveraging big data and artificial intelligence to elegantly connect brands with a targeted consumer base, both organically and through specialized marketing programs. Dynamic fulfillment services empower brands to offer tier-one service, with ongoing engagement being driven through features like smart lists, subscription programs, reordering functions, sampling programs, and more.

The Company also owns and operates the US.-based Veg Essentials, a staple of the plant-based community. Vegan Essentials was established in 1997 and contributes more than 20 years of consumer insight, data, and buying power. VeganEssentials.com was awarded best online vegan store from 2005-2018, as well as best online vegan grocery from 2018-2021 by VegNews Magazine.

The Company also owns and operates VEDGEco. Headquartered in Kailua, Hawaii, and launched in 2020 VEDGEco is the first nationwide plant-based foodservice distributor, providing restaurants with high-quality plant-based options. With the goal of bringing the freedom of food choice to all restaurants and businesses, VEDGEco distributes plant-based products in bulk to the restaurant and wholesale food industry, as well as to consumers across the US.

For more information please visit VejiiHoldings.com

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Kory Zelickson

Director and CEO

Find Vejii on Social Media: on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release.

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws with respect to Vejii Holdings Ltd (the "Company"), including statements relating to the Company's future performance; data shared for reference of subscription sales, market size, on-boarding of vendors and product categories; and expectations regarding the Company's rollout plan; and the effect of COVID-19 on the Company's business. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by words such as "believe," "project," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," 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. 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, except as required by law, the Company 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.

SOURCE Vejii Holdings Ltd.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday said it has cancelled the licence of Nashik-based cooperative lender Independence Co-operative Bank Limited and requested Commissioner for Cooperation and Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Maharashtra, to issue an order for winding up the bank and appoint a liquidator. "Consequent to the cancellation of its licence, Independence Co-operative Bank Limited, Nashik, Maharashtra, is prohibited from conducting the business of 'banking' which includes acceptance of deposits and repayment of deposits as defined in Section 5(b) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 with immediate effect," the RBI said in a statement. On liquidation, every depositor would be entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount of his/her deposits up to a monetary ceiling of Rs 5,00,000 from Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) subject to the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961. As per the data submitted by the bank, more than 99 per cent of the depositors are entitled to receive the full amount of their deposits from DICGC. As on January 27, 2022, DICGC has disbursed Rs 2.36 crore of the total insured deposits under the provisions of Section 18A of the DICGC Act,1961 based on the willingness received from the concerned depositors of the bank, the RBI said. (ANI)
Noting that the seven memoranda of understanding signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel in 2017 were in the public domain, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that Pegasus row was being probed a committee appointed by the Supreme Court and it had no information on the issue. "The alleged matter that has been referred to is under investigation by a committee set up by the honourable Supreme Court. No information is available with the Ministry of External Affairs on this matter," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said during the weekly media briefing. He was answering queries related to the article in the New York Times that said that Pegasus spyware was part of an arms deal between India and Israel during PM Modi's visit to the country. "As regards Prime Minister's (Narendra Modi) visit Israel in 2017, seven memoranda of understanding was signed, the details of which are publicly available," Bagchi said. (ANI)
An accused drug dealer who authorities say justifiably shot three people, one fatally, after his would-be teenage customer tried to rob him at gunpoint, pleaded guilty Tuesday to a gun charge in the case, according to Jefferson Parish court records.

Judge Stephen Enright Jr., of the 24th Judicial District Court, sentenced Robert White, 22, of Metairie, to five years in prison after White pleaded guilty to use of a firearm during the distribution of illegal drugs.

Robert White Robert White. (Photo from Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office)

Investigators say White arranged to meet up with 16-year-old Josiah Pujols in the parking of a Metairie apartment complex where he planned to sell the teen two cartridges of liquid THC on the evening of Dec. 10, 2020.

But the wild robbery-turned-shootout that followed left Pujols and Whites friend, Melvin Francis, 22, dead, and two others wounded, according to the Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office.

Marvin Rios, 18, an accused co-conspirator of Pujols, is charged with second-degree murder and manslaughter for his alleged role in the shootout. Though 17 at the time of the shootings, Rios is charged as an adult. No trial date has been set.

Pujols, Rios and Pujols adult aunt drove to the complex in the 3900 block of Division Street in the aunts sport utility vehicle to buy the drugs, authorities said. Pujols aunt told WWL-TV she thought the teens were going to the apartments to retrieve some clothing.

White picked the complex as the site of the drug deal because a friend lived there, authorities said. When the SUV arrived, White and Francis went out to the vehicle. Francis stood outside while White got in to make the exchange.

But Pujols pulled a gun on White and demanded that he hand over the THC cartridges, authorities said. Meanwhile, Rios inexplicably got out vehicle, pulled a gun and fatally shot Francis.

White escaped the SUV, pulled his own gun and fired several times at the vehicle, hitting Pujols, Rios and Pujols aunt, according to the Sheriffs Office. Rios pulled Pujols out of the SUV before running away from the scene.

Pujols aunt sped out of the parking lot and returned to her Metairie home where she called authorities. Her wound was not life-threatening, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Francis was pronounced dead at the scene. Pujols succumbed to his injuries after the teen was taken to the hospital. Rios was arrested after he showed up at a nearby hospital seeking treatment for a gunshot wound, the Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office said.

White, who remained at the scene, was arrested on marijuana distribution charges, though prosecutors only charged him with using a weapon during the drug deal, court records said.

Sheriffs Office investigators did not book White on any charges related to the shootings and Pujols' death because his actions were justified, the Sheriff's Office said.

Early in the case, Whites attorney, Andrew Bevinetto, called his client a victim who fired only after being robbed at gunpoint while his friend was killed.

He watched his friend be murdered right in front of him. He was shot at  and only by the grace of God was he not another victim in this matter, Bevinetto said during a preliminary hearing in the case.

Whites five-year sentence must be served without the benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence.

CORRECTION: Earlier versions of this story incorrectly identified the drug that White planned to sell to Pujols.
PM orders implementing tasks after Tet

Vietnam has basically fulfilled targets regarding the organisation of the Tet (Lunar New Year), the countrys biggest traditional festival, with security, safety and social welfare ensured, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh affirmed on February 3.













Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at the meeting. (Photo: VNA)

Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, the PM highlighted good results of the spring vaccination campaign and called for greater efforts in the implementation of Resolution No. 128/NQ-CP and directives and guidelines of the Government and the PM on the fulfillment of tasks after the festival.



The COVID-19 pandemic has been controlled nationwide, he said, adding that traffic accidents also dropped in the numbers of cases, deaths and injuries and the social welfare work was carried out effectively, especially in such major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.



Ministries and agencies coordinated in bringing home residents for family reunion during the Tet holiday orderly and safely, the PM said.



Meanwhile, cargo congestion at northern border gates was handled, and goods supply and demand were ensured, he continued.



Pointing out an array of challenges ahead such as the complex developments of the pandemic, risks to social order and safety, soaring global oil price and the operation of hostile forces, Chinh asked ministries and agencies to seriously and effectively implement tasks after Tet, including the pandemic fight.



According to the PM, schools at all grades nationwide will reopen from February 7-14, and the tourism sector will resume its normal operations no later than April 30. /
Kerala High Court on Thursday adjourned the hearing in the anticipatory bail plea of Malayalam actor Dileep and other accused in the case of allegedly threatening the investigation officials probing the 2017 Actress Assault Case to tomorrow. Meanwhile, Dileep moved an application seeking to suspend further investigation in this case. While hearing the anticipatory bail plea by the Single Bench of Justice P Gopinath, counsel for the accused contended that, "the conspiracy is not between the accused. The conspiracy is between the ADGP and other officers with a hidden agenda to register an FIR and throw the petitioner (Dileep) behind the bars. The prosecution is not investigating the offence, they are dissecting the offender. They are trying to add one case after the other to get the media to turn against the petitioner." In the application submitted by Dileep to suspend the further investigation, the contended said, "furtherance of this sham investigation infringes the right of a free trial. It is an absence of the process of law. It is a deliberated and calculated attempt of the prosecution to sabotage the trial of the 2017 Actress Assault Case in which the petitioner is an accused. It goes against the clear judicial pronouncements of the Supreme Court." Crime Branch of Kerala Police registered the case against Dileep and five others on January 9 for allegedly threatening the investigating officials probing the 2017 actress assault case. Dileep is named as the first accused in the FIR. Anoop, who is Dileep's brother, and Suraj, Dileep's brother-in-law, are the second and third accused. Appu, Babu Chengamanad are the other accused. One more accused has not been identified yet. Dileep is also the eighth accused in the actress assault case for alleged conspiracy. The case pertains that an actress who worked in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu films was allegedly abducted and molested inside her car by a group of men who had forced their way into the vehicle on the night of February 17, 2017. (ANI)
A union drive at Starbucks (SBUX) stores nationwide that began weeks ago at a store in Buffalo, New York has spread to 54 locations in 19 states, organizers said this week. Fifteen of those stores filed for union elections on Monday, demonstrating the growing momentum behind the movement.

The explosion of labor activity at one of the countrys largest food and beverage chains defies the decades-long decline of unionization in the U.S., where just 6.1% of private sector employees and 3.1% of food service workers belong to a union, Department of Labor data shows. It raises the question of why long-dormant employees at a company known for liberal management have begun to revolt.

Employees have drawn strength from pandemic-related labor shortages that have bolstered worker leverage across the economy but especially in the restaurant industry. Plus, workers have responded to the advocacy taken up by their colleagues, as a victory among one group of employees emboldens others.

But less attention has been paid to another crucial factor: the job itself. Yahoo Finance spoke with four current Starbucks employees involved in union campaigns who criticized a stressful workplace where they say COVID-related staffing shortages and exposure risks have resulted in heavier workloads, delayed breaks, and frustrations over a lack of personal protective equipment.

'A constrained labor environment'

The workers also stressed their disappointment in seeing the Seattle-based coffee giant  which opposes the union campaign  fall short of its reputation as a worker-friendly corporate bastion of liberal values.

Before I started the job, I had a grand view of Starbucks  it was one of my dream jobs, says Nikki Taylor, a shift supervisor at a Starbucks in Memphis, Tennessee who has worked at the company for two years. Once you get inside and see what youre dealing with and what its giving you, its not.

James Skretta at Starbucks Workers United office in Buffalo, New York, U.S., December 7, 2021. REUTERS/Lindsay DeDario

During the two busiest periods of the day, in the morning and late afternoon, the store usually staffs eight or nine people to handle the rush of orders, Taylor said. During the pandemic, the store has often operated during those peaks with just four or five employees, she said. (The company allows workers to suspend mobile or in-store orders when a location is understaffed, Starbucks Spokesperson Reggie Borges told Yahoo Finance.)

Plus, she has worked with constant fear of contracting COVID and bringing it home to her 8-year-old daughter, she said, saying those anxieties became reality three weeks ago when Taylor tested positive for the virus. She recounted one instance in which a customer entered the store and told her he was infected with the virus.

Its super stressful, Taylor says.

On an earnings call on Tuesday, Starbucks acknowledged the workplace disruption imposed by the labor shortage. Chief Operations Officer John Culver described elevated turnover and difficulty staffing stores over the course of the pandemic. Its no secret were in a constrained labor environment, Culver said.

In October, the company raised its starting wage at U.S. stores to $15 per hour from a prior rate of $12 per hour. The move brought the average wage for U.S. hourly employees to almost $17 per hour.

Starbucks has also made recent changes to COVID-19 policies. Last week, the company reversed a plan that would have required employees to get vaccinated or subject themselves to weekly testing.

A week before that, the company advised all employees to wear company-provided paper masks instead of cloth masks. But workers told Yahoo Finance theyre frustrated that the company has not provided the more protective N95 or KN95 masks. The company told Bloomberg it had chosen not to do so due to supply constraints. Employees can avail themselves of two five-day paid leave periods if they believe they've been exposed to COVID-19, Borges said.

In response to a request for comment, Starbucks sent a letter posted online by Executive Vice President, President North America Rossann Williams in December after the initial union victory at a store in Buffalo.

A portion of the letter says: "From the beginning, weve been clear in our belief that we do not want a union between us as partners, and that conviction has not changed. However, we have also said that we respect the legal process. This means we will bargain in good faith with the union that represents partners in the one Buffalo store that voted in favor of union representation. Our hope is that union representatives also come to the table with mutual good faith, respect and positive intent."

Full-time and part-time employees at Starbucks receive health care benefits, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, paid vacation days, parental leave, and the opportunity to receive full tuition payment for a bachelor's degree through Arizona State Universitys online degree programs  though eligibility for such benefits depends on a minimum number of hours worked.

'We have to do everything'

In addition to its rapid pace and COVID risks, a job at Starbucks requires an under-appreciated array of skills and tasks, said Len Harris, a shift supervisor at a store near Boulder, Colorado. She contrasted the job of a Starbucks employee with that of a traditional restaurant worker responsible for a single task, like serving or dishwashing.

We have to do everything, Harris said. We have to learn how to make drinks, clean dishes, have to learn how to take orders, and work an oven. We have to wear all the hats.

Not only do we have to get out orders quickly but with a smile, she adds.

A man wearing a protective face mask is seen outside a Starbucks Coffee shop in Manchester, following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Manchester, Britain, May 14, 2020. REUTERS/Phil Noble

Catherine Creighton, Director of the Cornell University Industrial Labor Relations Buffalo Co-Lab who spoke with workers behind the initial Starbucks union drive in that city, said the confluence of a labor shortage, infuriating profits taken in by the company amid the pandemic, and an increasingly stressful work environment amounted to a perfect storm for labor strife.

COVID has been a huge disruption  people are hitting the pause button and saying, Whats going on? I have to think about things. This isnt right.

To be sure, all of the workers who spoke with Yahoo Finance said they enjoyed parts of the job at Starbucks, especially the relationships theyve formed with coworkers and regular customers. I love working at Starbucks, says Kylah Clay, a barista at a store in Boston, Massachusetts. In the early morning, getting to chat with customers and help them start their day in a positive way  to me, its very rewarding.

The union drive remains confined to a small fraction of the companys nearly 9,000 stores nationwide run by Starbucks.

But workers said a union would grant them a say in improving the day-to-day work environment, and allow them to advocate for better pay and benefits. They told Yahoo Finance that they consider the company's treatment of employees a hypocritical departure from its commitment to liberal values.

The company's record on that score includes former CEO Howard Schultz's defense of same-sex marriage in 2013, a racial justice effort involving messages on customer cups a couple years later, and a vow to hire 10,000 refugees.

In June 2020, in the aftermath of the police murder of George Floyd, the company allowed workers to wear Black Lives Matter shirts and pins, a reversal of a policy that had banned them from worker attire.

Starbucks parades around as pro-LGBTQ rights and outspoken about the Black Lives Matter movement, says Joseph Nappi, a barista at a store in Cleveland, Ohio. It can't be pro-LGBTQ and pro-BLM but be anti-union and anti-labor. I dont think you can reconcile those.

Creighton, the director of the Cornell University IRL Buffalo Co-Lab, said the small, well-educated workforce at Starbucks stores makes the workplace vulnerable to a union drive. But she wondered whether the trend could extend to other industries.

Now the next question is: Is it going to tsunami across the economy or just at Starbucks? Creighton asks.

Max Zahn is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. Find him on twitter @MaxZahn_.

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Court artist sketch by Elizabeth Cook of Jack Sepple, of Tennyson Road, Chelmsford, appearing in the dock at Colchester Magistrates' Court accused of the murder of a 19-year-old Canadian woman who was found dead in Chelmsford. A statement from Essex Police says 19-year-old Ashley Wadsworth died Tuesday, shortly after officers were called to a disturbance at a home in Chelmsford, northeast of London. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Elizabeth Cook/PA via AP
GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism (CIDOT) today announced its partnership with custom leather goods brand, Laudi Vidni on a unique line of leathers inspired by the destination. As a locale recognized internationally for sweeping cerulean blue seas, white-sand beaches, exotic wildlife, breathtaking vistas and warm hospitality, the Cayman Islands itself serves as the perfect muse for this collection featuring exquisite and vibrantly colored leathers. "Vivid Cayman  A Leather Collection by Laudi Vidni" features four distinct leather shades that can be used to customize variety of products  from stylish handbags and wallets to functional travel items and tech accessories. Pieces customized and purchased via laudividni.com will be sure to satisfy any traveler's wanderlust.

The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism (PRNewsfoto/Cayman Islands Department of...)

"As a luxury lifestyle destination synonymous with barefoot elegance, we are thrilled to unveil the 'Vivid Cayman' collection in partnership with Laudi Vidni," said Mrs. Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands. "The colors selected for this collaboration truly capture the natural beauty of our picturesque destination, including our breathtaking sunsets, exotic wildlife and colorful coral reefs. We are thrilled to give our guests a stylish piece of Cayman to use in their everyday lives."

The 'Vivid Cayman' collection features four distinct colors that evoke the relaxation, elegance, warmth, magnificence, and the spirituality of the Cayman Islands:

Alluring Cayman: a vibrant orange red shade on buttery soft pebble grain leather signifies the welcoming spirit of the Cayman Islands . From the warmth radiating from locals and visitors alike, this approach to life is affectionately known as Caymankind.

a vibrant orange red shade on buttery soft pebble grain leather signifies the welcoming spirit of the . From the warmth radiating from locals and visitors alike, this approach to life is affectionately known as Captivating Cayman: a rich, warm, enduring caramel-hued suede imitates the uniquely soft texture of a tropical starfish and provides a calming balance to the collection reminiscent of Cayman's natural wonders  from Crystal Caves and Owen Island to the mighty bluffs of Cayman Brac.

a rich, warm, enduring caramel-hued suede imitates the uniquely soft texture of a tropical starfish and provides a calming balance to the collection reminiscent of Cayman's natural wonders  from and to the mighty bluffs of Cayman Brac. Enchanting Cayman: an iconic teal, imported from Italy , this color is not only found in the breathtaking Caribbean Sea, but also captures the magnificence of Cayman's well-known Blue Iguana. Unlike the nation's beloved reptile, this creamy, pebbled leather bag is strikingly durable and begs to be touched.

an iconic teal, imported from , this color is not only found in the breathtaking Caribbean Sea, but also captures the magnificence of Cayman's well-known Blue Iguana. Unlike the nation's beloved reptile, this creamy, pebbled leather bag is strikingly durable and begs to be touched. Mystical Cayman: a deep metallic plum made of shimmery soft pebble grain leather is inspired by the subtle edges of brilliant sunsets, sunlit coral reefs, and the petals of orchids found in Cayman. Softly pebbled for durability and sumptuous to the touch, this final hue captures the complete essence of the destination.

"The Cayman Islands is a favored vacation destination among well-travelled, fashion savvy visitors that have a penchant for the highest quality goods and services," said Hon. Kenneth V. Bryan, Minister for Tourism and Transport. "This partnership between the Cayman Islands and Laudi Vidni represents a perfect blending of the bespoke individuality and style that are characteristic to both the 'Vivid Cayman' collection and the Cayman Islands vacation experience."

"Our name Laudi Vidni is the word 'individual' spelled backwards," said Laura Kofoid, Co-Founder and CEO of Laudi Vidni. "For a decade, our custom-made bags and accessories have encouraged humans of all stripes to show the world their true identity. We are thrilled to expand that ethos to the Cayman Islands with a responsible leather collection that captures all that is one-of-a-kind to the destination  the emotional depth and magical hues that are uniquely and authentically Cayman."

Fashion and travel lovers alike are able to explore the 'Vivid Cayman' collection by visiting www.laudividni.com/pages/vividcayman. Customers can use these gorgeous leathers, or others from the Laudi Vidni assortment, to customize their perfect bag. Follow along on social media @visitcaymanislands and @laudividni.

About the Cayman Islands

Located merely an hour south of Miami in the vibrant tranquility of western Caribbean, this trio of islands is a premier destination for tasteful travelers, thrill-seeking divers, adventurous epicures, honeymooners and families alike. As the Caribbean's leading luxury lifestyle destination, the Cayman Islands affords each guest with the ultimate setting to enjoy life's finest comforts. From five-star resorts and luxury villas to condos and breathtaking beachfront properties, Cayman has a myriad of options for the discerning traveler. Not to mention, the Cayman Islands is frequently heralded as the "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean"  with endless gastronomic experiences bound to delight the most seasoned of travelers.

The Cayman Islands, world-renowned for its idyllic beaches and impeccable hospitality, has risen to recent challenges by employing world class health and sanitation protocols to keep travelers and locals safe. From weekend getaways to ultra-luxurious escapes and multi-generational family vacations, guests can take comfort in knowing Cayman will exceed all expectations and its sun, sand, sea and safety are truly worth the wait.

To learn more about the Cayman Islands, please go to www.visitcaymanislands.com; www.divecayman.ky or call your local travel agent. For more information about COVID-19 travel restrictions, please visit: https://www.exploregov.ky/coronavirus

About Laudi Vidni

Laudi Vidni ("individual" spelled backwards) is a woman-owned accessories label offering customizable, made-to-order leather goods meticulously handcrafted in Chicago, IL. Each of their bag styles can be personalized with leather, lining, hardware, strap length, and monogram, to enable people of all stripes to create a bag that fits their unique style, as well as their long waist or big puffer coat.

Laudi Vidni was founded by friends (and fellow Harvard Business School grads), Laura Kofoid and Grace Tsao-Wu, two retail veterans who were tired of buying bags that weren't quite right. Rejecting both the snobbery and status quo processes of traditional handbag labels, the pair started their natively custom leather accessories brand in 2009. The foundation of the brand is a deep commitment to quality, with bags constructed to last a lifetime made of leathers from sustainably-oriented tanneries. Custom-made offers two key benefits relative to traditional forecast-driven manufacturing: 1) customers are guaranteed to get what they want; and 2) markdowns and environmental waste are virtually eliminated.

Laudi Vidni accessories are available through www.laudividni.com and at their design studio in Lincoln Park, Chicago. They are also a preferred supplier to the corporate incentive industry, providing high quality, custom gifts and experiences.

To learn more about Laudi Vidni please go to www.laudividni.com

This material is distributed by Coyne PR on behalf of the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC.

SOURCE Cayman Islands Department of Tourism
CANTON, Mass., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- School of Rock, the global leader in performance-based music education, announces a second location opening in Mexico City, Mexico in late fall 2022. Matias Puga Hamilton, School of Rock's Latin American master franchisee, is primed to open 20 locations over the next 10 years. School of Rock currently has two locations in Mexico: one in Mexico City and one in Monterrey.

"We are very proud to be part of this inspirational business and help expand School of Rock's global reach by bringing the fun, performance-based music-education curriculum to locations across Latin America," said Matias Puga Hamilton.

There are currently 301 existing School of Rock locations open, and over 50,000 students enrolled, operating across 13 countries including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile, South Africa, Australia, Philippines, Paraguay, Colombia, Taiwan and Spain. School of Rock will be opening locations in Ireland and Portugal later this year.



"School of Rock is thrilled to be increasing our franchise presence in Latin America and supporting the next generation of artists," said Rob Price, CEO of School of Rock. "Matias and his team have already made such a positive impact on students in Chile, Peru, Colombia and Paraguay and with his devotion to the School of Rock brand he is the ideal person to lead this expansion in Mexico."

School of Rock provides students of all ages an exciting and engaging music lesson experience, which includes bass lessons, guitar lessons, singing lessons, drum lessons, and piano lessons. Drawing from all styles of rock and roll, School of Rock students learn theory and techniques via songs from legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin,The Beatles, and Led Zeppelin. Thanks to the school's performance-based approach, students around the world have gained superior musical proficiency, with some moving on to record deals and larger platforms such as American Idol, The Voice and Broadway.

About School of Rock

School of Rock helps aspiring musicians master skills, unleash creativity, and develop tools they need to thrive in life. Founded as a single school in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1998, School of Rock has become a rapidly growing international franchise with over 500 schools open and in development across 15 global markets. Since 2009, School of Rock has grown its student count from 4,000 to 50,000. School of Rock offers a wide variety of music lessons, including guitar lessons, singing lessons and piano lessons. The company also sells musical instruments and music gear through its GearSelect program. School of Rock was awarded US Patent 10,891,872 in 2021 for its innovative music education method. School of Rock also has garnered the following industry awards: 2021 Franchise Innovation Award for Most Innovative Use of Customer-Facing Digital Tools; 2021 Global Franchise's Awards Best Children's Service and Education Franchise; 2022 Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500 Top Children's Music Enrichment Brand; Franchise Business Review's 2021 Top 200 Franchises and Culture 100 list; 2020 Entrepreneur Magazine's Top 200 Franchise and the #1 Child Enrichment Franchise; and 2018 Forbes # 2 Best Franchise Medium-Level Investment Award and the #1 Music Franchise in America.

Follow School of Rock on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SchoolofRockUSA and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/SchoolofRockUSA.

For more information on School of Rock visit www.SchoolofRock.com or call 866-695-5515. To learn more about School of Rock franchise opportunities head to http://franchising.schoolofrock.com/

For more information, contact:

Avery Barzizza

BizCom Associates

513.520.3463

[email protected]

SOURCE School of Rock
Joshi Festival in the Kalash tribe in Pakistan, May 14, 2011. Credit: Shutterstock/Maharani afifah

I open my eyes to the sound of a voice as the twin-engine Pakistan Airlines propeller aircraft flies through the Hindu Kush mountain range, west of the mighty Himalayas. We are cruising at 27,000 feet, but the mountains around us appear worryingly close and the turbulence has woken me up during a 22-hour trip to the most remote place in Pakistanthe Kalash valleys of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa region.

To my left, a distraught female passenger is quietly praying. On my immediate right sits my guide, translator and friend Taleem Khan, a member of the polytheistic Kalash tribe which numbers around 3,500 people. This was the man who was speaking to me as I was waking up. He leans over again and asks, this time in English: "Good morning, brother. Are you well?"

"Prust," (I'm well) I reply, as I become more aware of my surroundings.

It doesn't seem like the plane is descending; rather, it feels as if the ground is coming up to meet us. And after the plane has hit the runway, and the passengers have disembarked, the chief of the Chitral Police Station is there to greet us. We are assigned a police escort for our protection (four officers operating in two shifts), as there are very real threats to researchers and journalists in this part of the world.

Only then can we embark on the second stage of our trip: a two-hour jeep ride to the Kalash valleys on a gravel road which has tall mountains on one side, and a 200 ft drop into the Bumburet river on the other. The intense colors and vivacity of the location must be lived to be understood.

The objective of this research trip, conducted by the Durham University Music and Science Lab, is to discover how the emotional perception of music may be influenced by the listeners' cultural background, and to examine whether there are any universal aspects to emotions conveyed by music. To help us understand this question, we wanted to find people who had not been exposed to western culture.

The villages that are to be our base of operations are spread across three valleys on the border between north-west Pakistan and Afghanistan. They are home to a number of tribes, though both nationally and internationally they are known as the Kalash valleys (named after the Kalash tribe). Despite their relatively small population, their unique customs, polytheistic religion, rituals and music set them apart from their neighbors.

The road from Chitral to the central Kalash Valley. Credit: George Athanasopoulos, Author provided

In the field

I have conducted research in locations like Papua New Guinea, Japan and Greece. The truth is fieldwork is often expensive, potentially dangerous and sometimes even life-threatening.

But difficult as it is to conduct experiments when faced with linguistic and cultural barriers, the lack of a stable electricity supply to charge our batteries would be among the hardest obstacles for us to overcome on this trip. Data can only be collected with the assistance and willingness of local people. The people we met literally went the extra mile for us (actually, an extra 16 miles) so we could recharge our equipment at the closest town with power. There is little infrastructure in this region of Pakistan. The local hydro-electric power plant provides 200W for each household at night, but it is prone to malfunctions due to flotsam after each rainfall, causing it to stop operating every second day.

Once we overcame the technical issues, we were ready to begin our musical investigation. When we listen to music, we rely heavily on our memory of the music we've heard throughout our lives. People around the world use different types of music for different purposes. And cultures have their own established ways of expressing themes and emotions through music, just as they have developed preferences for certain musical harmonies. Cultural traditions shape which musical harmonies convey happiness andup to a pointhow much harmonic dissonance is appreciated. Think, for example, of the happy mood of The Beatles' Here Comes the Sun and compare it to the ominous harshness of Bernard Herrmann's score for the infamous shower scene in Hitchcock's Psycho.

So, as our research aimed to discover how the emotional perception of music may be influenced by the listeners' cultural background, our first objective was to locate participants who were not overwhelmingly exposed to western music. This is easier said than done, due to the overarching effect of globalization and the influence western musical styles have on world culture. A good starting point was to look for places without a stable electricity supply and very few radio stations. That would usually mean poor or no internet connection with limited access to online music platformsor, indeed, any other means of accessing global music.

One benefit of our chosen location was that the surrounding culture was not western-oriented, but rather in a different cultural sphere altogether. Punjabi culture is the mainstream in Pakistan, as the Punjabi are the largest ethnic group. But the Khowari culture dominates in the Kalash Valleys. Less than 2% speak Urdu, Pakistan's lingua franca, as their mother tongue. The Kho people (a neighboring tribe to the Kalash), number about 300,000 and were part of the Kingdom of Chitral, a princely state which was first part of the British Raj, and then of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan until 1969. The western world is seen by the communities there as something "different," "foreign" and "not our own."

The second aim was to locate people whose own music consists of an established, native performance tradition in which the expression of emotion through music is done in a comparable manner to the west. That's because, even though we were trying to escape the influence of western music on local musical practices, it was nevertheless important that our participants understood that music could potentially convey different emotions.

Wooden dwellings in the Rumbur valley, one of the three valleys inhabited by the Kalash people in Chitral District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Credit: Shutterstock/knovakov

Finally, we needed a location where our questions could be put in a way that would enable participants from different cultures to assess emotional expression in both western and non-western music.

For the Kalash, music is not a pastime; it is a cultural identifier. It is an inseparable aspect of both ritual and non-ritual practice, of birth and of life. When someone dies, they are sent off to the sounds of music and dancing, as their life story and deeds are retold.

Meanwhile, the Kho people view music as one of the "polite" and refined arts. They use it to highlight the best aspects of their poetry. Their evening gatherings, typically held after dark in the homes of prominent members of the community, are comparable to salon gatherings in Enlightenment Europe, in which music, poetry and even the nature of the act and experience of thought are discussed. I was often left to marvel at how regularly men, who seemingly could bend steel with their piercing gaze, were moved to tears by a simple melody, a verse, or the silence which followed when a particular piece of music had just ended.

It was also important to find people who understood the concept of harmonic consonance and dissonancethat is, the relative attractiveness and unattractiveness of harmonies. This is something which can be easily done by observing whether local musical practices include multiple, simultaneous voices singing together one or more melodic lines. After running our experiments with British participants, we came to the Kalash and Kho communities to see how non-western populations perceive these same harmonies.

Our task was simple: expose our participants from these remote tribes to voice and music recordings which varied in emotional intensity and context, as well as some artificial music samples we had put together.

Major and minor

A mode is the language or vocabulary that a piece of music is written in, while a chord is a set of pitches which sound together. The two most common modes in western music are major and minor. Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles is a song in a major scale, using only major chords, while Call Out My Name by the Weeknd is a song in a minor scale, which uses only minor chords. In western music, the major scale is usually associated with joy and happiness, while the minor scale is often associated with sadness.

Right away we found that people from the two tribes were reacting to major and minor modes in a completely different manner to our UK participants. Our voice recordings, in Urdu and German (a language very few here would be familiar with), were perfectly understood in terms of their emotional context and were rated accordingly. But it was less than clear cut when we started introducing the musical stimuli, as major and minor chords did not seem to get the same type of emotional reaction from the tribes in northwest Pakistan as they do in the west.

We began by playing them music from their own culture and asked them to rate it in terms of its emotional context; a task which they performed excellently. Then we exposed them to music which they had never heard before, ranging from West Coast Jazz and classical music to Moroccan Tuareg music and Eurovision pop songs.

While commonalities certainly existafter all, no army marches to war singing softly, and no parent screams their children to sleepthe differences were astounding. How could it be that Rossini's humorous comic operas, which have been bringing laughter and joy to western audiences for almost 200 years, were seen by our Kho and Kalash participants to convey less happiness than 1980s speed metal?

We were always aware that the information our participants provided us with had to be placed in context. We needed to get an insider perspective on their train of thought regarding the perceived emotions.

Essentially, we were trying to understand the reasons behind their choices and ratings. After countless repetitions of our experiments and procedures and making sure that our participants had understood the tasks that we were asking them to do, the possibility started to emerge that they simply did not prefer the consonance of the most common western harmonies.

Not only that, but they would go so far as to dismiss it as sounding "foreign." Indeed, a recurring trope when responding to the major chord was that it was "strange" and "unnatural," like "European music." That it was "not our music."

Melody harmonised in the style of a J.S. Bach chorale.

What is natural and what is cultural?

Once back from the field, our research team met up and together with my colleagues Dr. Imre Lahdelma and Professor Tuomas Eerola we started interpreting the data and double checking the preliminary results by putting them through extensive quality checks and number crunching with rigorous statistical tests. Our report on the perception of single chords shows how the Khalash and Kho tribes perceived the major chord as unpleasant and negative, and the minor chord as pleasant and positive.

To our astonishment, the only thing the western and the non-western responses had in common was the universal aversion to highly dissonant chords. The finding of a lack of preference for consonant harmonies is in line with previous cross-cultural research investigating how consonance and dissonance are perceived among the Tsimane, an indigenous population living in the Amazon rainforest of Bolivia with limited exposure to western culture. Notably, however, the experiment conducted on the Tsimane did not include highly dissonant harmonies in the stimuli. So the study's conclusion of an indifference to both consonance and dissonance might have been premature in the light of our own findings.

When it comes to emotional perception in music, it is apparent that a large amount of human emotions can be communicated across cultures at least on a basic level of recognition. Listeners who are familiar with a specific musical culture have a clear advantage over those unfamiliar with itespecially when it comes to understanding the emotional connotations of the music.

But our results demonstrated that the harmonic background of a melody also plays a very important role in how it is emotionally perceived. See, for example, Victor Borge's Beethoven variation on the melody of Happy Birthday, which on its own is associated with joy, but when the harmonic background and mode changes the piece is given an entirely different mood.

Then there is something we call "acoustic roughness," which also seems to play an important role in harmony perceptioneven across cultures. Roughness denotes the sound quality that arises when musical pitches are so close together that the ear cannot fully resolve them. This unpleasant sound sensation is what Bernard Herrmann so masterfully uses in the aforementioned shower scene in Psycho. This acoustic roughness phenomenon has a biologically determined cause in how the inner ear functions and its perception is likely to be common to all humans.

According to our findings, harmonisations of melodies that are high in roughness are perceived to convey more energy and dominanceeven when listeners have never heard similar music before. This attribute has an affect on how music is emotionally perceived, particularly when listeners lack any western associations between specific music genres and their connotations.

The same melody harmonised in a wholetone style.

For example, the Bach chorale harmonization in major mode of the simple melody below was perceived as conveying happiness only to our British participants. Our Kalash and Kho participants did not perceive this particular style to convey happiness to a greater degree than other harmonisations.

The wholetone harmonization below, on the other hand, was perceived by all listenerswestern and non-western aliketo be highly energetic and dominant in relation to the other styles. Energy, in this context, refers to how music may be perceived to be active and "awake," while dominance relates to how powerful and imposing a piece of music is perceived to be.

Carl Orff's O Fortuna is a good example of a highly energetic and dominant piece of music for a western listener, while a soft lullaby by Johannes Brahms would not be ranked high in terms of dominance or energy. At the same time, we noted that anger correlated particularly well with high levels of roughness across all groups and for all types of real (for example, the Heavy Metal stimuli we used) or artificial music (such as the wholetone harmonization below) that the participants were exposed to.

So, our results show both with single, isolated chords and with longer harmonisations that the preference for consonance and the major-happy, minor-sad distinction seems to be culturally dependent. These results are striking in the light of tradition handed down from generation to generation in music theory and research. Western music theory has assumed that because we perceive certain harmonies as pleasant or cheerful this mode of perception must be governed by some universal law of nature, and this line of thinking persists even in contemporary scholarship.

Indeed, the prominent 18th century music theorist and composer Jean-Philippe Rameau advocated that the major chord is the "perfect" chord, while the later music theorist and critic Heinrich Schenker concluded that the major is "natural" as opposed to the "artificial" minor.

But years of research evidence now shows that it is safe to assume that the previous conclusions of the "naturalness" of harmony perception were uninformed assumptions, and failed even to attempt to take into account how non-western populations perceive western music and harmony.

Just as in language we have letters that build up words and sentences, so in music we have modes. The mode is the vocabulary of a particular melody. One erroneous assumption is that music consists of only the major and minor mode, as these are largely prevalent in western mainstream pop music.

In the music of the region where we conducted our research, there are a number of different, additional modes which provide a wide range of shades and grades of emotion, whose connotation may change not only by core musical parameters such as tempo or loudness, but also by a variety of extra-musical parameters (performance setting, identity, age and gender of the musicians).

For example, a video of the late Dr. Lloyd Miller playing a piano tuned in the Persian Segah dastgah mode shows how so many other modes are available to express emotion. The major and minor mode conventions that we consider as established in western tonal music are but one possibility in a specific cultural framework. They are not a universal norm.

Why is this important?

Research has the potential to uncover how we live and interact with music, and what it does to us and for us. It is one of the elements that makes the human experience more whole. Whatever exceptions exist, they are enforced and not spontaneous, and music, in some form, is present in all human cultures. The more we investigate music around the world and how it affects people, the more we learn about ourselves as a species and what makes us feel.

Our findings provide insights, not only into intriguing cultural variations regarding how music is perceived across cultures, but also how we respond to music from cultures which are not our own. Can we not appreciate the beauty of a melody from a different culture, even if we are ignorant to the meaning of its lyrics? There are more things that connect us through music than set us apart.

When it comes to musical practices, cultural norms can appear strange when viewed from an outsider's perspective. For example, we observed a Kalash funeral where there was lots of fast-paced music and highly-energetic dancing. A western listener might wonder how it is possible to dance with such vivacity to music which is fast, rough and atonalat a funeral.

But at the same time, a Kalash observer might marvel at the sombreness and quietness of a western funeral: was the deceased a person of so little importance that no sacrifices, honorary poems, praise songs and loud music and dancing were performed in their memory? As we assess the data captured in the field a world away from our own, we become more aware of the way music shapes the stories of the people who make it, and how it is shaped by culture itself.

After we had said our goodbyes to our Kalash and Kho hosts, we boarded a truck, drove over the dangerous Lowari Pass from Chitral to Dir, and then traveled to Islamabad and on to Europe. And throughout the trip, I had the words of a Khowari song in my mind: "The old path, I burn it, it is warm like my hands. In the young world, you will find me."

Explore further Study using a new interactive interface shows how music listeners think different emotions sound as music

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
India has achieved 9 per cent in and is confident of meeting the 20 per cent target by 2025, Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday.

Presently, 10 per cent ethanol, extracted from sugarcane or surplus foodgrain, is required to be blended or mixed in (meaning 10 per cent of ethanol mixed with 90 per cent of petrol) with a view to cutting oil import dependence and provide farmers with an additional source of income.

Replying in the Lok Sabha during Question Hour, Puri said "In January, we have already exceeded the 9 per cent mark. We are confident that from 9 per cent to 20 per cent in the period between now and 2025 is doable".

Last year, the government brought forward the target to achieve 20 per cent with to 2025, five years ahead of its previous target, to help reduce its dependence on costly oil imports. 10 per cent is to be achieved in 2022.

"I'm absolutely confident that 20 per cent target will be met by 2025," Puri said.

India is the world's third-biggest oil importer, relying on foreign suppliers to meet more than 85 per cent of its oil demand.

A 10 per cent blend would require 4 billion litres of ethanol by 2021-2022 sugar year (November 2021 to October 2022).

To achieve 20 per cent blending by 2025, and to meet the requirement of the chemical and other sectors, about 12 billion litres of alcohol/ethanol would be required. The sugar industry will divert 6 million tonne of surplus sugar to produce 7 billion litres of the ethanol needed while the other 5 billion litres of ethanol will be produced from excess grain.

Last year, the government had also allowed the mixing of ethanol extracted from surplus grains.

(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.)
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Scientists have successfully tested in the lab a tiny biosensor they developed that can detect biomarkers tied to traumatic brain injuries.

In a study published recently in the journal Small, the Ohio State University researchers say their waterproof biosensor includes an "unprecedented combination of features" that may allow it to detect changes in the concentrations of various chemicals in the body and send the results to researchers in real time.

The chip is flexible and thinner than a human hair, making it minimally invasive for use in the brain.

"We have a long way to go from our tests in the lab, but these findings were very encouraging," said study co-author Jinghua Li, assistant professor of materials science and engineering at Ohio State.

Although a biosensor such as the one the team developed could have many potential uses, Li and her co-authors were particularly focused in this study on how the sensor could be used to monitor patients with traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

After such an injury, secondary damage can occur that can be detected by changes in sodium and potassium ion concentrations in the brain's cerebrospinal fluid, said Li, who is a member of Ohio State's Chronic Brain Injury (CBI) Program.

"We want a biosensor that is able to continuously monitor brain tissues to detect changes in ion concentrations in the cerebrospinal spinal fluid," she said.

"Those changes emerge at the secondary state of TBI as an early warning signal of the condition worsening."

The researchers tested the biosensor in an artificial solution they created to mimic cerebrospinal fluid and found that it could accurately detect changes in potassium and sodium ion levels that are important in TBI.

In addition to the tests with the artificial cerebrospinal fluid, the team also tested the biosensor in human blood serum, in which they successfully monitored pH levels.

How does it work? The chip features electronic components (known as field-effect transistors) that, upon sensing the chemical of interest, produce an electrical signal that can be detected and analyzed outside the body.

Importantly, the researchers developed calibration standards that address what is called the "crosstalk" issue.

"When we create a biochemical sensor, we want to make sure that the device only responds to the specific chemicals we are interested in, and ignores the crosstalk from other biomarkers," Li said. "That is difficult to do in a complex system like our body."

While a biosensor has to be able to detect changes in the fluids in the brain, the electronics in the chip must be protected from these same fluids, Li said.

A waterproof encapsulation made from a thin film of silicon dioxideforged in temperatures above 1,000 degrees Celsiusprovided high structural integrity as barrier materials in a fluid environment, the study found.

How long could the encapsulation last in a human body? The researchers tested the material in a variety of ways, such as by placing it in heated fluids and in substances with different pH levels.

The findings suggest the waterproof encapsulation with a thickness of several hundreds of nanometers could last at least a few years at body temperature and possibly much longer, Li said.

The biggest issue right now is with the chemical sensing elements, which the study suggests would work for only up to a few weeks.

And there are other issues that need to be worked out before the biosensor is ready to be tested in animal models and humans, Li said. The response of biotissues to the sensor over extended period needs further study. There are still issues with crosstalk to be resolved, considering the complexity of the biosystem, and questions of how to mass produce the sensors, among other matters.

But this study provides more evidence that these sensors have a real future in health care, she said.

Li said she believes biosensors could be used to analyze not only ions and neurotransmitters, as in this study, but possibly peptides, proteins, nucleotide acids and other chemicals in the body. It could be a breakthrough not only for TBI, but for other chronic diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

"We believe that the capture and analysis of health data that we could achieve with biosensors are crucial to tracking long-lasting health conditions for early intervention and treatment of diseases," she said.

Explore further Sensors set to revolutionise brain-controlled robotics

More information: Yan Dong et al, Materials and Interface Designs of Waterproof FieldEffect Transistor Arrays for Detection of Neurological Biomarkers, Small (2022). Journal information: Small Yan Dong et al, Materials and Interface Designs of Waterproof FieldEffect Transistor Arrays for Detection of Neurological Biomarkers,(2022). DOI: 10.1002/smll.202106866
By Azernews

By Vugar Khalilov

Azerbaijans State Border Service chief Col-Gen Elchin Guliyev has stated that over 2,300 mines and unexploded munitions were defused in the liberated lands in 2021, the service reported on February 3.

Guliyev made the remarks during a meeting devoted to the State Border Service's service and combat activities in 2021.

During the time period in question, the state service discovered and defused 947 anti-personnel mines, 1,195 anti-tank mines, and 186 unexploded munitions. Mines and unexploded ordnance were removed from 386 hectares of land.

Furthermore, Guliyev stated that 73.8 km of new roads and 121.4 km of repaired roads were built in the occupied territories in 2021.

He added that 19 new military complexes of the State Border Service, 104 border-combat checkpoints, had been established on the liberated territories, along the Azerbaijani-Armenian state border, which runs through Zangilan, Gubadli, and a portion of Lachin.

In addition, the Eyvazli and Gazanchi checkpoints on the Azerbaijani-Armenian state border were opened, and steps were taken to organize border control at Fuzuli International Airport, Guliyev said.

After liberating its lands from Armenian occupation during the 44-day war in 2020, Azerbaijan regained control of a 132-km section of the Azerbaijan-Iran border.

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.

The Prosecutor-General's Office reported on December 9, 2021, that 29 civilians and seven military servicemen had been killed, and 109 servicemen and 44 civilians had received injuries of varying severity as a result of mine explosions in the country's lands since November 10, 2020.

Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a Russia-brokered peace agreement on November 10, 2020, to end 44 days of fighting and work toward a comprehensive resolution.
Credit: Shutterstock

Contradictory government policies are creating intergenerational inequity as new research from the University of South Australia shows that the housing market is failing to concurrently cater for both older and younger generations.

In a new research paper that explores generational differences in property tenure in Australia, UniSA housing experts identified an inequitable distribution of housing among older and younger people.

The study showed that older generationsSilent Generation and baby boomershold the lion's share of housing properties which, by default, locks out their younger millennial (or Gen Y) counterparts.

Over three census periods (2006, 2011 and 2016) researchers found that 80 percent of older generations were long-standing homeowners compared to only about 50 percent of millennials.

It's a situation that's exacerbated by Australia's soaring house prices, where recent reports indicate that Australian home buyers paid an average of $1,066,133 to secure a home over the past year (a national increase of 25 percent).

Lead researcher, Dr. Braam Lowies says aside from the massive financial constraints, the research highlights how government policies designed to protect one generation, can hinder another.

"In Australia, owning your own home has always been the great Aussie dream. But each year, this dream is becoming further out of reach for younger Australians," Dr. Lowies says.

"Australia has an aging population, the majority of whom report a desire to 'age in place'to live in the community with some independence, rather than in residential care. And with growing support from the governmentsuch as home support programs and home care packagesolder people can do this with greater confidence and security.

"Yet on the other end of the age spectrum, millennials are finding themselves locked-out of the market as the Silent Generation and baby boomers retain a significant portion of the housing stock, much of which has considerable value and development potential due to its lot size and location.

"For millennials, this limits their housing options, creating severe housing tenure inequalities. The consequence is that younger people are frequently compelled to revert to the parental home or the rental marketand this is despite government grants to support first home buyers."

68 percent of Boomers owned their own home by age 3034 compared with 50 percent of millennials at the same age.

Property expert, UniSA's Peter Rossini, says more nuanced housing policies are needed to address intergenerational differences.

"With more than 15 percent of the population (3.7 million) aged over 65, and estimations that this will grow to 22 percent (8.7 million) by 2056, the conundrum of one generation impeding another is not going away any time soon," Rossini says.

"Having bipolar housing scenarios across generations is a demonstration of how the current system is unbalanced. It's an unsustainable position and one that requires a review of current housing policy to deliver more refined and considered outcomes for all."

Explore further Generation Share: Why more older Australians are living in share houses

More information: Locked-out: generational inequalities of housing tenure and housing type. Locked-out: generational inequalities of housing tenure and housing type. www.emerald.com/insight/conten  067/full/html#sec005
But to many inside the administration, what Mr. Putin omitted was more important than what he said. There was no threat that the United States and NATO must yield to his demands that troops leave the former Soviet bloc nations that are now part of NATO, and that all nuclear weapons be removed from Europe, or he will be forced into what he has previously and mysteriously called military/technical means. It may have been a temporary omission.

And Mr. Putin did say that the American and NATO responses, the text of which leaked to a Spanish newspaper, addressed none of his core concerns. But he suggested there was still some time for diplomacy, striking a very different tone from his demand a few weeks ago that he needed written guarantees, and needed them immediately.

Some who have jousted with Mr. Putin for years saw a man looking for a way out.

William B. Taylor Jr., a longtime diplomat who served as the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, said on Wednesday that he thought Mr. Bidens more aggressive posture  a shift he calls from passive deterrence to active deterrence  was working.

I think Putin has already blinked in some sense, Mr. Taylor, who burst into public view when he testified at the impeachment hearings of President Donald J. Trump, said in an interview. He was in a stare-down. And now he is looking for a way out. Hes overplayed his hand, and he may, for a while, settle for entering negotiations on a series of topics.

Others are not so sure.

Some Russia experts inside and outside the government say that while Mr. Putin is seeking respect for Russia as a great power and real attention to his security needs  complaints that the West has largely ignored  lengthy negotiations over new arms control treaties or reciprocal limits on troop movements and exercises are unlikely to satisfy him. He will want concrete concessions now, in this view, before he can pull back from the border.

Several administration officials say they think Mr. Putins interest in diplomacy is purely tactical, and temporary. They suspect he doesnt have all his forces amassed yet and may not want to cross President Xi Jinping of China by invading just as the Winter Olympics are beginning in Beijing. Mr. Putin is emerging from a long Covid-related isolation to join the celebration later this week, and he will use the moment to meet with Mr. Xi, with whom he has formed something of an alliance of convenience.
CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Micro Injection Molded Plastic Market by Material Type (Liquid-Crystal Polymer (LCP), Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK), Polycarbonate (PC), Polyethylene (PE), Polyoxymethylene (POM)), Application and Region - Global Forecast to 2026" published by MarketsandMarkets, the Micro Injection Molded Plastic Market is projected to reach USD 1,692 million by 2026, at a CAGR of 11.2% from USD 995 million in 2021. Micro injection molded plastics are made of micro injection molding technique which is a highly specialized manufacturing process that produces extremely small, high-precision thermoplastic components with micron tolerances, which can be used in various industries such as medical, automotive, electronics and others.

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According to Institute of Industrial Technology and Automation (ITIA-CNR), Micro-components are often smaller than a single grain of granulate. Micro injection molded plastic components are of shot weights of 1 to 0.1 g with tolerances in the range of 10 to 100 microns. This molding process allows manufacturers to produce complicated small geometries with maximum possible accuracy and precision.

"PC is estimated to be the fastest-growing material type in the Micro Injection Molded Plastic Market between 2021 and 2026."

In 2020, the PC accounted for the largest market share in material type segment and is also projected to a moderate growth during the forecast period. The market growth is expected to be fueled by the increasing usage of modern medical devices, micro components for the electric vehicles and various components for electronics industry.

"Medical was the largest application for Micro Injection Molded Plastic Market in 2020"

Medical is the largest application for micro injection molded plastic. In the micro injection molding industry, medical micro molding is a highly specialized sector. As medical equipment gets more miniaturized, they rely on micro injection molded components to provide crucial patient care both within and outside the body.

Micro molds are utilized for various medical processes. Few of the medical molds include surgical devices, endoscopic devices, catheters, hearing aids, point of care testing devices, diabetes management devices, DNA research and sequencing devices, electronic components for medical devices, microfluidics, and pharmaceutical applications, including drug delivery devices, vials, caps, specimen cups, blood collection tubes, syringes, and IV parts. The shifting trend towards miniaturization and nanotechnology in the medical sector is fueling the demand for compatible micro-molds for every medical application.

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"Europe is estimated to be the second-largest Micro Injection Molded Plastic Market in 2020, in terms of value"

Europe is the second-largest consumer of micro injection molded plastic, in 2020. Germany, France, the UK are key countries considered in the European region. Increased consumer spending and exports drive the region's economy. Europe has a well-developed automotive sector. It is one of the largest producers of commercial vehicles and has a strong spare parts industry as well. It offers an ideal logistics platform for companies to export to international markets. Europe is an important market for Japanese and US car manufacturers looking to strengthen their position in Europe. Macroeconomic factors such as the recovery of the economy, rising domestic demand, and increase in consumer spending and exports are expected to drive the economic growth of Europe.

The key players profiled in the Micro Injection Molded Plastic Market report include Accumold LLC (US), Isometric Micro Molding, Inc. (US), Makuta Micro Molding (US), Precimold Inc. (Canada), MTD Micro Molding (US), Microsystems Precision Medical Moulds (UK), Veejay Plastics Injection Molding Company (US), Knightsbridge Plastics Inc.(California), Polymermedics Ltd. (UK), Manner Solutions For Plastics (Germany), Microdyne Plastics, Inc. (US), SMC Ltd. (US), Mikrotech (US), Sovrin Plastics (UK), Stack Plastics (US), American Precision Product(US), D&M Plastics, LLC (US), Paragon Medical (US), Micro Molding Inc. (US), Spectrum Plastics Group, Inc. (US), Matrix Plastic Products (US), Yomura Technologies Inc (Taiwan), and Barnet Intelligent Materials (US).

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Micro Injection Molding Machine Market by Type (0-10 tons, 10-30 tons and 30-40 tons), Application (Medical, Automotive, Fiber Optics, Electronics), and Region (APAC, North America, Europe, MEA, South America) - Global Forecast to 2026

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Restaurant customers would have to request plastic utensils and condiment packets with their to-go food if a bipartisan bill introduced in the Colorado House becomes law.

House Bill 1134 would require restaurants and third-party food delivery services to ask customers if they want single-use items like cutlery, napkins and condiments instead of providing them automatically. If enacted, the bill would go into effect on Jan. 1, 2023.

Bill sponsor Rep. Brianna Titone, D-Arvada, said she was inspired by an identical ordinance passed by the Denver City Council in May 2021. Titone said the policy saves restaurants money by not wasting products and prevents unused meal accessories from being thrown away or abandoned in kitchen drawers.

I think its a win-win for everybody. Theres really nothing that impacts anybody in a negative way, Titone said. Why are we putting that stuff in the bag if people dont want it to begin with?

In the United States, nearly 36 million tons of plastic waste is generated annually and around 75% goes to landfills, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The International Solid Waste Association estimates single-use plastic consumption has grown by 250% to 300% in the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic  which can be partially attributed to increasing use of food delivery and to-go ordering.

The bills prime sponsor in the Senate, Henderson Republican Kevin Priola, said he has seen the impact of increased trash first-hand in his home district.

Growing up in Adams County, Ive noticed theres so much more trash in parking lots and on the sides of the highways and streets, and a lot of it is directly related to restaurants and the food industry, Priola said. It basically encourages a conversation with patrons about, Do you really need that fork? or Do you really need those condiments?

Single-use items under the bill include plastic utensils, napkins, condiment cups and packets, straws, stirrers, lids, cups, cup sleeves, spill plugs, serving trays, cocktail sticks and chopsticks.

No legislators or stakeholders have come out in opposition of the bill. That includes the Colorado Restaurant Association, which said it has been working with Titone to assure the bill would not negatively impact the food industry.

Our legislative committee recommended that we seek to incorporate language into Rep. Titones proposal that allows industry employees the option of offering single-use items to customers, said Mollie Steinemann, government affairs manager of the Colorado Restaurant Association. They also recommended that restaurants with drive-thrus be granted the ability to include single-use items to prevent spills, which is a public safety concern. Those concerns have been incorporated into Rep. Titones proposal, making it much more industry-friendly.

Despite the lack of formal opposition, Titone's bill faced broad backlash on social media after the Arvada Democrat tweeted about it on Saturday. The criticisms included that the bill was overreaching and an unnecessary burden on restaurants already struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Titone said that is not the intention of the bill, which is evident in the fact that there are no penalties included in the bill if restaurants do not comply.

This bill has no intent of being a burden on the restaurants and we made sure of that, Titone said. I dont want to punish somebody, I just want to get the idea across that this is going to be helpful to them and is going to make many of their customers happy.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

ATMEH, Syria (AP)  The leader of the Islamic State group blew himself up along with members of his family as American forces raided his Syria hideout Thursday, the U.S. said  the second time in three years the United States has taken out a leader of the violent group that has been struggling for resurgence with deadly attacks in the region.

President Joe Biden announced the overnight raid by American special operations forces, which U.S. officials called a significant blow to the radical militant organization.

The IS group at the height of its power controlled more than 40,000 square miles stretching from Syria to Iraq and ruled over 8 million people. Its attacks in the region included a major assault last month to seize a prison in northeast Syria holding at least 3,000 IS detainees.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby speaks during a briefing at the Pentagon in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022. President Joe Biden is sending about 2,000 troops from Fort Bragg, N.C., to Poland and Germany this week and sending part of an infantry Stryker squadron of roughly 1,000 troops based in Germany to Romania. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

The raid targeted Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, who took over as head of the group on Oct. 31, 2019, just days after leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi died during a U.S. raid. Al-Qurayshi, unlike his predecessor, was far from a household name, a secretive man who presided over a far diminished version of the group and didnt appear in public.

Biden said al-Qurayshi died as al-Baghdadi did, by exploding a bomb that killed himself and members of his family, including women and children, as U.S. forces approached.

Thanks to the bravery of our troops this horrible terrorist leader is no more, Biden said at the White House. He said al-Qurayshi had been responsible for the prison assault, as well as genocide against the Yazidi people in Iraq in 2014.

About 50 U.S. special operations forces landed in helicopters and attacked a house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said. Residents described continuous gunfire and explosions that jolted the town of Atmeh near the Turkish border, an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syrias civil war.

Biden said he ordered U.S. forces to take every precaution available to minimize civilian casualties, the reason they did not conduct an airstrike on the home.

First responders reported that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said U.S. forces were able to evacuate 10 people from the building: a man, a woman and four children from the first floor and four children from the second floor. He said when al-Qurayshi detonated the bomb, he also killed his wife and two children. Kirby said that U.S. officials were working to determine whether American action resulted in any civilian deaths.

There were no U.S. casualties, Kirby said. U.S. forces took fingerprints and DNA, which confirmed al-Qurayshis death, he said.

Blood covers the floor of a destroyed house after an operation by the U.S. military in the Syrian village of Atmeh in Idlib province, Syria, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. U.S. special forces carried out what the Pentagon said was a successful, large-scale counterterrorism raid in northwestern Syria early Thursday. Local residents and activists said civilians were also among the dead. (AP Photo/Ghaith Alsayed)

Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and senior national security aides monitored a live-feed of the operation from the White House Situation Room according to an official. In December, a tabletop model of the three-floor house had been brought to the high-security room.

The raid marked a military success for the United States at an important time after setbacks elsewhere  including the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal  had led allies and opponents to conclude U.S. power globally was weakening.

The house, surrounded by olive trees in fields outside Atmeh, was left with its top floor shattered and blood spattered inside. A journalist on assignment for The Associated Press, and several residents, said they saw body parts scattered near the site. Most residents spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Idlib is largely controlled by Turkish-backed fighters but is also an al-Qaida stronghold and home to several of its top operatives. Other militants, including extremists from the rival IS group, have also found refuge in the region.

The first moments were terrifying; no one knew what was happening, said Jamil el-Deddo, a resident of a nearby refugee camp. We were worried it could be Syrian aircraft, which brought back memories of barrel bombs that used to be dropped on us, he added, referring to explosives-filled containers used by President Bashar Assads forces against opponents during the Syrian conflict.

The top floor of the low house was nearly destroyed, sending white bricks tumbling to the ground below.

A wrecked bedroom had a childs wooden crib and a stuffed rabbit doll. On one damaged wall, a blue plastic baby swing was still hanging. Religious books, including a biography of Islams Prophet Mohammad, were in the house.

People check at a destroyed house after an operation by the U.S. military in the Syrian village of Atmeh, in Idlib province, Syria, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. U.S. special forces carried out what the Pentagon said was a successful, large-scale counterterrorism raid in northwestern Syria early Thursday. Local residents and activists said civilians were also among the dead. (AP Photo/Ghaith Alsayed)

Al-Qurayshi had kept an extremely low profile since he took over leadership of the Islamic State. U.S. officials said he never left his apartment except to bathe on the buildings roof. It is difficult to gauge how his death will affect the group. U.S. officials claimed he was directly overseeing operations in Syria, including last months attack on the prison.

Theyre leaderless today, and thats a significant blow, Kirby said. This not something we believe ISIS is going to be able to get over real quickly or real easily.

The second floor of the house was occupied by a lower-ranking Islamic State leader and his family, but the first floor contained civilians who were unconnected to the terrorist group and unaware of al-Qurayshis presence, according to U.S. officials, who described them as unwitting human shields.

Biden gave the final go on the mission on Tuesday morning during his daily national security briefing in the Oval Office, where he was joined by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley.

In the first stages of the operation, residents and activists said, U.S. commandos staged a large ground assault, using megaphones urging women and children to leave the area.

Much to the relief of U.S. officials, the family on the first floor exited the building unharmed.

The IS lieutenant, who officials did not name, who lived on the second floor barricaded himself inside along with his wife and engaged in combat with the commandos who entered the home after the explosion. After a firefight, in which both were killed, officials said four children were removed from the second floor alive by U.S. forces. Kirby said that it appeared that a child on the second floor also died, though the circumstances were not clear.

People inspect a destroyed house following an operation by the U.S. military in the Syrian village of Atmeh, in Idlib province, Syria, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. U.S. special operations forces conducted a large-scale counterterrorism raid in northwestern Syria overnight Thursday, in what the Pentagon said was a "successful mission." Residents and activists reported multiple deaths including civilians from the attack. (AP Photo/Ghaith Alsayed)

The special operations forces spent about two hours on the ground, longer than usual for such an operation  indicative, U.S. officials said, of caution to minimize civilian casualties.

Another firefight erupted with a local extremist group with hostile intent, Kirby said. Two people were killed outside the house and their compadres left, he said.

U.S. troops launched the airborne raid from a base in the region, but officials would not specify the precise location due to operational security concerns. They added that the U.S. deconflicted the operation with a a range of entities but did not specify whether those included Russia, which has supported the Assad government in Syria.

Gen. Frank McKenzie, head of U.S. Central Command and the commander of the operation, said the mission goal was to capture al-Qurayshi. He said the blast set off by the IS leader was larger than would have been expected from a suicide vest, and that al-Qurayshis body was found on the ground outside the building, thrown from the third floor by the force of the blast.

There was no comment from the Syrian government, which rarely acknowledges or comments on attacks by foreign countries targeting areas outside its control.

A U.S. official said one of the helicopters in the raid suffered a mechanical problem and was redirected to a site nearby, where it was destroyed.

Through slickly engineered propaganda, including brutal beheading videos, IS emerged as a dominant global extremist threat in the past decade. Its clarion call to followers in the West to either join its self-described caliphate in Syria, or to commit acts of violence at home, inspired killings in the U.S. as well as thousands of travelers determined to become foreign fighters.

In this image provided by The White House, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris and members of the President's national security team observe from the Situation Room at the White House in Washington, on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022, the counterterrorism operation responsible for removing from the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, the leader of the Islamic State group. (Adam Schultz/The White House via AP)

Last months attack on the prison in Hasaka marked the groups biggest military operation since it was defeated and its members scattered underground in 2019. The attack appeared aimed to break free senior IS operatives in the prison.

It took 10 days of fighting for U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led forces to retake the prison fully, and the force said more than 120 of its fighters and prison workers were killed along with 374 militants.

___

Baldor and Miller reported from Washington, Mroue from Beirut. Associated Press writers Zeina Karam in Beirut, Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad and Eric Tucker, Chris Megerian, Ellen Knickmeyer and Alexandra Jaffe in Washington contributed reporting.
PASADENA, Calif., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CALSTART has published an inventory of Class 2b-8 zero-emission trucks (ZETs) in the U.S. "Zeroing in on Zero-Emission Trucks." The report provides insight on ZET market trends as the industry prepares for an injection of federal funding for charging infrastructure, multiple states implement clean truck regulations, and California prepares to release an additional $873 million in purchase incentives for commercial vehicles and infrastructure.

The number of available zero-emissions truck models has increased 625% from 2019. Tweet this CALSTART Zeroing in on Trucks: Zero-emissions truck deployments by state

"The actual number of deployed vehicles is still quite low, and we do expect to see shifts in delivery dates and actual delivery of those on order as the market players continue to evolve," said Kevin Walkowicz, senior director of truck programs at CALSTART. "However, the numbers demonstrate that there is demand that will support significant growth in the industry. CALSTART will continue to track and monitor these developments so the industry and decision-makers have access to the trending numbers."

Current ZET deployments are concentrated in states that have supportive policies and regulations (California, New York, New Jersey, and Illinois) or have received federal funds for ZET purchases (Texas, Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Virginia, and Massachusetts). The report notes that medium-duty trucks, cargo vans, and medium-duty step vans are the most frequent type of ZET deployed, accounting for 75% of vehicles deployed as of 2021.

Additional insights include:

The number of available ZET models has increased 625% from 2019.

While there are numerous hydrogen fuel cell trucks under development and being demonstrated in the U.S., they are a small percentage of the ZET population.

The expected delivery times of the 140,000 ZETs on order are between one and ten years.

"Zeroing in on Zero-Emission Trucks" is based on data gathered from several sources, including market information providers, incentive program records, public press releases, and private correspondence with OEMs (original equipment manufacturers). As there is no centralized accounting of ZETs, it is important to note that figures contained in the report should not be considered static nor should any data on ordered vehicles be

About CALSTART

A national nonprofit consortium with offices in New York, Michigan, Colorado and California and partners world-wide, CALSTART works with 280+ member company and agency innovators to build a prosperous, efficient, and clean high-tech transportation industry. We overcome barriers to modernization and the adoption of clean vehicles. CALSTART is changing transportation for good.

SOURCE CALSTART Inc
Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

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China's former justice minister sentenced to death

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Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

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Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

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Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

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Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

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Greece politician condemns Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

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Iran army chief: We will not allow changes in borders in region

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Relatives of those who died and those who were injured in Yerevan market explosion to get one-time financial aid

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NEWS.am digest: Azerbaijan violates ceasefire, Russia announces mobilization
Predictions indicate that the Madagascar frog Mantella aurantiaca is likely to experience a dramatic decline by 2070. Credit: Frank Vassen/Wikimedia, CC BY

The effects of climate changeextreme heat waves, wildfires of unprecedented magnitude and devastating floodshave now been occurring for several decades, and the COP26 climate agreement reached in Glasgow will not be enough to keep global warming below 2C, as the French climatologist Benjamin Sultan recently said.

Species do not escape these disruptions. In a report from the IPBES, the equivalent of the IPCC for biodiversity, ecologists highlight dramatic declines in numbers throughout the world, including in regions which are apparently preserved.

Future projections are no better. Studies aimed at predicting the effects of climate change suggest there will be winners and losers, but mostly losersnot to mention the risks of invasion by the "winners."

Although the idea of containing global warming to less than 2C is making headway, that endeavor would nonetheless remain insufficient, as stressed in a study published in the leading journal Climate Change.

A clearer signal in the tropics

Climate change, as we can see, will cost us all, even in temperate regions. However, a growing number of studies show a gradient in the magnitude of species response to climate change. The closer to the equator, the more severe the effects. This is the case for example in European birds, with greater declines in the southernmost populations. The same pattern exists in the North American mountains, where birds track the cold toward higher altitudes, but it is mostly seen in the tropics.

This gradient was also observed in the body size of French passerines. A study that I completed with the French National Museum of Natural History (MNHN), now published in Global Change and Biogeography, showed that juvenile growth was negatively affected by high temperatures, but only in the south. I summarize this research with Benjamin Freeman (University of British Columbia) in the following rap song:

Credit: Scientific Rap Sessions

Species living closer to their tolerance threshold

How can such a pattern be explained? Are the southernmost species not adapted to warmer climates? Of course they are, but heat and drought still represent the main constraints in those regions. In the Mediterranean region, warming would increase aridity, and hence decrease plant productionthe basis of the food chain. More heat, more aridity, fewer plants and fewer insects mean less food for birds during the spring.

What about the tropics, where the climate is wet? Species have also adapted to these climates, but the upper limit of their thermal tolerance is no different from that of temperate species. Tropical species live permanently close to this limit. Hence, a very slight shift in temperature may drive them beyond their physiological comfort zone.

Alarming projections

It is possible to anticipate the consequences of climate change using predictive models. After identifying the suitable climate conditions for a given species, ecologists make use of the future climate scenarios built by climatologists.

In a study carried out in collaboration with the University of Porto and the NGO Madagasikara Voakajy, these models predict a dramatic decline in climate conditions by 2070 for two species: a bright-colored frog from Madagascar and a gecko, a sticky-toed lizard from Reunion Island.

Both species are restricted to a narrow region, with very specific climate conditions. The study accounts for a variety of sources of uncertainty, either related to the scenario or the methods. In every case, the climate will become largely unsuitable for both species, not only within their current distribution area, but also across their entire respective islands. Climate change can now be added to the long list of threats already pressuring their environment.

A glimmer of hope

Those models suggest that the ideal climate conditions for these species will no longer be met in the future. However, they ignore the species' capacity to adapt to new conditions. Some species may modify their habits in order to avoid the warmest periods of the day (or year). Others may find micro-climatic refuges, either in the wild or in urban areas. It is also possible that those species may tolerate heat better than expected.

Conservation actions have already been undertaken in Reunion. The NGO Nature Ocean Indien has planned restoration programs for the natural habitat of the gecko. These steps enable climate risks to be anticipated by favoring the existing populations.

What is the point of all this if the climate becomes unsuitable in the future? The study enabled us to identify with a high degree of precision the areas that are predicted to be the most favorable in the future. The results will provide guidelines for conservation practitioners and help them to maintain or create suitable habitats which will represent a haven for this highly endangered lizard.

Because data is patchy, this study was conducted only on two species. However, such grim predictions could well become reality for a number of other tropical species. In short: this is another alarm bell in an overheated world.

Explore further What will happen to baobab trees in Madagascar in the future?

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
By Michael Holden and Kylie MacLellan

LONDON (Reuters) -Four of Boris Johnson's closest aides resigned on Thursday in a turbulent day for his government, as the British prime minister tried to reset his administration in the face of a series of scandals that have put his position in peril.

Johnson's premiership is facing a growing crisis in the wake of anger over a series of alcohol-fuelled parties held at his Downing Street office and residence during coronavirus lockdowns which followed other missteps.

Angry lawmakers in his own Conservative Party, some of whom have already called for his resignation, have demanded an overhaul of his Downing Street operation if he is to remain in power.

On Thursday, three of his top aides - Chief of Staff Dan Rosenfield, Principal Private Secretary Martin Reynolds, and Director of Communications Jack Doyle - all resigned in what some Conservative lawmakers (MPs) said looked like the start of a somewhat disorganised reset in Johnson's administration.

However a fourth quit over a barb Johnson made at the leader of the main opposition Labour party, something for which his finance minister also criticised him.

"On Monday Boris Johnson promised MPs change. Tonight we see that change starting to happen and I welcome this quick action by the prime minister," lawmaker Stuart Anderson said on Twitter, one of a number of Johnson supporters who took to social media to applaud the shake-up.

Johnson pledged to change his leadership style after a report by senior civil servant Sue Gray into the gatherings held at his Downing Street office and residence condemned "serious failures of leadership".

Rosenfield, Reynolds and Doyle were directly linked to the gatherings - Reynolds was reported to have sent an email asking attendees to "bring your own booze" to one.

Johnson's office said Rosenfield and Reynolds would remain in their posts for the time being.

Whether the clear out in Johnson's top team will be enough to see off the crisis remains to be seen.

Story continues

COST OF LIVING SQUEEZE

His personal ratings have plummeted and his party has fallen well behind Labour in opinion polls amid a series of scandals and gaffes. The police are still investigating 12 of the lockdown gatherings, and a more detailed report from Gray with potentially more damaging revelations could follow afterwards.

The political problems also come as British households face a cost of living squeeze with energy prices set to soar in April, while the Bank of England also raised interest rates again on Thursday.

Johnson, who won a massive majority for the Conservatives in a 2019 election, has also been condemned this week for accusing Labour leader Keir Starmer of failing to prosecute Jimmy Savile, one of Britain's worst sex offenders, during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The false claim https://www.reuters.com/article/factcheck-britain-savile-idUSL1N2RP200, which Starmer said amounted to Johnson "parroting the conspiracy theories of violent fascists", has angered not only opponents but also some within his own party.

Johnson has declined to apologise but did back down from the comments on Thursday, saying "a lot of people have got very hot under the collar".

"I'm talking not about the leader of the opposition's personal record when he was ... DPP and I totally understand that he had nothing to do personally with those decisions."

However it failed to satisfy Munira Mirza, his head of policy who had worked with him for 14 years, and prompted her to quit her job, and also provoked criticism from finance minister Rishi Sunak.

'INAPPROPRIATE'

"This was not the usual cut and thrust of politics; it was an inappropriate and partisan reference to a horrendous case of child sex abuse," The Spectator magazine cited Mirza as saying in a letter to Johnson.

"I hope you find it in yourself to apologise for a grave error of judgment made under huge pressure ... It is not too late for you but, Im sorry to say, it is too late for me."

Asked whether the prime minister should have apologised, Sunak, who along with foreign minister Liz Truss is considered a leading contender to replace Johnson should he be forced out, said: "Being honest, I wouldn't have said it, and I am glad the prime minister clarified what he said."

Savile, a celebrated TV and radio host, was never prosecuted despite a number of police investigations. After his death in 2011 at age 84, it was revealed he had abused hundreds of victims.

Starmer, who headed the Crown Prosecution Service at a time when Savile was being investigated, had no direct involvement in the case, but did later apologise for the failings.

Johnson said he was sorry to lose Mirza but rejected her assessment that his Starmer comments were inappropriate.

"Well I dont agree with that," he told 5 News.

(Reporting by Elizabeth Piper, Alistair Smout, Michael Holden and Kylie MacLellan; Editing by William James, Angus MacSwan, Jonathan Oatis and Daniel Wallis)
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Hyderabad on February 5 to inaugurate the 'Statue of Equality' -- to commemorate the 11th century Bhakti Saint Sri Ramanujacharya.

The function will coincide with the Hindu festival of Basant Panchami that marks the preparation for the arrival of spring.

Mounted on a 54-ft high base building, named 'Bhadra Vedi', the statue is made of 'panchaloha', a combination of five metals: gold, silver, copper, brass, and zync and is among one of the tallest metallic statues (at 216 ft) in sitting position, in the world.

The building has floors devoted to a Vedic digital library and research centre, ancient Indian texts, a theatre, an educational gallery detailing many works of Sri Ramanujacharya, who promoted the idea of equality in all aspects of living including faith, caste and creed.

The statue has been conceptualised by Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami of Sri Ramanujacharya Ashram.

According to a statement issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), before inaugurating the statue, the Prime Minister will visit the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) campus in Patancheru and kickstart its 50th anniversary celebrations.
Mumbai, Feb 3 : Hollywood actor Neil Patrick Harris, who plays Henry Coltrane in the upcoming drama series 'It's a Sin', said he hopes the series will offer a new perspective to the audience on the subject of HIV/AIDS. The five-part series revolves around the HIV/AIDS crisis that hit the United Kingdom in the 1980s and 1990s.

It follows the story of five gay friends and how they formed a friendship group amid rapidly spreading AIDS crisis. The series explores themes like freedom and expressing oneself freely, and is helmed by Peter Hoar.

Commenting on the dialogue around HIV/AIDS, Harris said: "The conversation is still alive and necessary and in many ways more important now than ever." The actor said: "I talk at length and relatively often with Elton John and David Furnish about their AIDS Foundation, which has done such extraordinary things. They recognise that there's a tipping point, that HIV/AIDS could be eviscerated to zero in our lifetimes." He added that there has been a perceptible shift in the handling of the disease.

"That's a big deal considering how it started, in such uncertainty and with so much fear," Harris said. "At the beginning of all this, if you went into a hospital with HIV/AIDS, there was a strong probability you were not going to come back." "So, to continue the conversation with perspective, to be able to look at that generation with a bit of hindsight, makes the morals and lessons and warnings more vivid." Adding further as to how the series will provide a new perspective to the younger generation about the time gone by when HIV/AIDS was a big thing to deal with, Harris said: "There's a younger generation that perhaps often only knows HIV/AIDS through the idea that, if you're on PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis drugs), you're good to go. I hope it allows them to have a new perspective and awareness of the lives that were led before." He also praised the show's creator for putting together the story, "I applaud Russell for creating this wonderful, brave original story of a group of people coming into their own under this shadow of such uncertainty and darkness. Rooting for these people, being so excited to see them living, f***ing, being proud, and simultaneously recognising that this series is about something much bigger."Delving deeper into the show, Harris said: "The first episode ends on such a happy note, and you wish them all success, joy, happiness, love, enthusiasm, excitement in their worlds. Yet you're terrified for their safety and concerned about how these stories will end. It's an amazing dynamic." Shedding light on his character, the actor said: "Henry works at a Savile Row tailors. He seems to be an antagonist for Colin, but quickly realizes Coli's a bit green, a bit young and innocent and naive, so takes him under his wing and provides an example for a way of existing that Colin did't know about.

"He's been with his boyfriend for a long time, living his lovely independent existence with calm and happiness, which makes a nice juxtaposition to the desperate need for chaos and individuality some of the younger generation at that time were seeking", he concluded.

'It's a Sin', which also stars Olly Alexander, Nathaniel Curtis and Shaun Dooley in lead roles, will be streaming on Lionsgate Play from February 4.
Panaji, Feb 3 : The ruling BJP and the main opposition party, the Congress, on Thursday, announced its list of star campaigners for the February 14 assembly polls in Goa, listing the names of Congress president Sonia Gandhi as well as Union Home Minister Amit Shah. They are likely to visit the coastal state in the next few days.

BJP's star campaigners include Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.

"Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani will be in Goa on February 5, while the following day, February 6, will have the presence of Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari," a Goa BJP spokesperson said.

"On February 7, Union Home Minister Shah will campaign for the Party. While the Defence Minister's campaign tour is slated on February 10-11, BJP national president J.P. Nadda will be in Goa on February 8 and February 11," the party official said.

The Congress list of star campaigners includes Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, who is scheduled to visit the election-bound state on Friday (February 4), Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, former chief ministers Oommen Chandy, Sidharamaiah, Ashok Chavan, among others.
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI/NewsVoir): In recent years, an increasing number of Indians have given up their citizenship. Government officials said over 100,000 Indians surrendered their citizenship in the first nine months of 2021, and more than 600,000 Indians renounced their citizenship over the last five years.

Reports also indicate that many of those renouncing their Indian citizenship are high-net-worth individuals. Currently, India stands at the top of Morgan Stanley's 'Exodus in the World' list, reporting that around 35,000 Indian entrepreneurs of high net worth left between 2014-2020.

Although the reason for a large number of Indians surrendering their citizenship was not stated by officials, in 2018, the Ministry of Home Affairs revised the declaration of renunciation of citizenship form for the first time to include a column on "circumstances/reasons due to which applicant intends to acquire foreign citizenship and renounce Indian citizenship".

"Majority of Indians, especially those who want to do business internationally, renounce their citizenship or leave their country because of the privileges they get under citizenships of other countries, especially those with strong global mobility options that prioritise safety, security, cleanliness and a healthy environment," says Paul Singh. Singh is the Director of (https://csglobalpartners.com) CS Global Partners, the world's leading government advisory and marketing firm that specialises in assisting second citizenship seekers with solutions through citizenship by investment.

Where once citizenship was limited to countries that individuals had a connection to, it has become increasingly common to invest in a country's economy in exchange for citizenship. These initiatives, known as citizenship by investment programmes, can be found in over a dozen countries across the globe and have become a trusted route to a second citizenship.

"Canada, Australia, the UAE and Singapore have long been hotspots for professional Non-resident Indians (NRIs)," said Singh. "But these countries have either long residency or citizenship processes or high investment thresholds that impose limits on time-poor individuals."

A nation rising in popularity as a second citizenship solution for Indians, Singh says, is the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis. The country is located in the Lesser Antilles in the Eastern Caribbean region and is a member of the British Commonwealth. Its stable political climate has enabled it to maintain membership in various regional and international organisations, including the United Nations. Moreover, in terms of population and geographical size, the Federation is the smallest sovereign state in the Americas.

The St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Programme was founded in 1984 and is the world's oldest. It is globally recognised and respected and has its legal foundations in the Constitution of the country. Through St Kitts and Nevis' second citizenship programme, the government focuses on enabling fluent direct foreign investment into real estate endeavours and funds for national growth.

In 2021, the Financial Times's PWM magazine appointed (https://cbiindex.com) St Kitts and Nevis as the best CBI Programmes in the world. The report highlighted: "St Kitts and Nevis once again leads the Citizenship Timeline pillar by virtue of its Accelerated Application Process, which offers citizenship to qualifying applicants within a maximum of 60 days and, under certain circumstances, as little as 45 days. For applicants who do not want to pay a premium, St Kitts and Nevis' standard route has an average processing time of three months."

Those who pass the necessary due diligence checks can contribute to the country's government fund and become exempt from bureaucratic delays at borders of almost 75 per cent of the world, a feat highly beneficial to traders and entrepreneurs interested in growing their business in economic hubs like Europe, Asia and Africa. The eastern Caribbean regional currency is also pegged to the US dollar, making St Kitts and Nevis an attractive second citizenship option.

"Imagine having real global mobility where it's the case of jumping on a plane to a meeting in Germany, having a romantic weekend in Paris and visiting your child at boarding school in London... Second citizenship is a much-needed tool," said Singh.

Additionally, applicants are not required to pass any language tests or even travel to St Kitts and Nevis during or after their short citizenship process. The Programme also has a packaged contribution for families, ensuring children have more opportunities to choose the best international schools for a brighter future.

"Holding alternative citizenship, once seen as a luxury, has become a necessity for those wanting to look outside the boundaries of their home country. This is particularly true for wealthy Indians with a more global outlook, who know first-hand how citizenship can act as an obstacle to living the life you desire," Singh added.

Additional benefits of St Kitts and Nevis citizenship include:

-Transferable Citizenship with a lifetime validity

-Full residence status, including the right to live and work

-St Kitts and Nevis citizenship program allows a second passport without the need to give up any existing citizenship

-No residency requirement before or after the grant of the second citizenship

-A stable and straightforward investment opportunity in a democratic country

-Opportunities to work and live in various Caribbean countries

-No need to travel or reside while your citizenship by investment application is in process or you have received it

-Asset management and protection by means of trusts and offshore companies

-Excellent airlines connection with various major countries worldwide

-Lifestyle benefits include a pleasant climate and unspoiled natural environment

-Tropical climate characterised by cooling trade-winds

CS Global Partners specialises in citizenship solutions for high-net-worth individuals. Headquartered in London, UK, the firm consists of a team of experts that has helped countless individuals and their families find their perfect second citizenship.

The firm offers personalised advice to clients and ensures that every step of the application process runs smoothly. CS Global Partners' ensures that their clients are afforded the highest quality of efficient and effective service through one-on-one interactions with legal professionals. Their established professional working relationships with real estate developers, bankers and all relevant Citizenship by Investment Units contribute to the outstanding quality of service that they provide to their clientele.

Through second citizenship in countries like St Kitts and Nevis, successful clients grow their wealth, gain security, and offer their children a better future filled with unlimited opportunities.

This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir)

DISCLAIMER

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Panaji, Feb 3 : The Congress on Thursday likened Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal to All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen's Asaduddin Owaisi, both of whom, the opposition party leader Randeep Surjewala said, were being sent to states by the BJP in order to split the anti-BJP votes.

"There are two people, which the BJP sends wherever it is losing. One is AIMIM and second is Kejriwal and AAP. They will wear separate hats, they will seem to be opposing the BJP. But let no Goan be mistaken. At the end of the day, AAP runs its government with the assistance and help of BJP," Surjewala told a press conference in Panaji.

"There are imposters here who are BJP's B-team. They are here to assist the BJP and provide cover fire. We need to be wary of such forces, who wear the white topi, but actually wear the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) colours inside," he also said, while referring to the Aam Aadmi Party.

"Otherwise so many scams happened in Delhi, there is no way they would have been able to rule. He (Kejriwal) would have been behind bars, if 10 per cent of those scams were to be investigated and taken to a logical conclusion in a court of law," Surjewala also said.

He also urged the Trinamool Congress in Goa to support the Congress party in the poll-bound state to prevent division of votes.

"In a democracy everybody has a right to fight, I'm not disputing their right, but in democracy everyone has to understand and comprehend and think and introspect whether by their act and deeds, knowingly or unknowingly, whether they are giving cover fire to the BJP," Surjewala said.
Another U.S. plane carrying 85 tonnes of ammunition for grenade launchers for the Ukrainian Armed Forces has arrived in Kyiv.

According to Ukrinform, Minister of Defense of Ukraine Oleksii Reznikov announced this on Twitter.

"The seventh American bird has landed in Boryspil! This time - 85 tonnes of ammunition for grenade launchers. So, this is great news, but most importantly, this is not the end! To be continued," the minister wrote.

Moscow has been moving troops to Ukraine's border since late October 2021. Western media reported, citing their sources, that a renewed Russian invasion of Ukraine, involving about 175,000 Russian troops, could take place in early 2022.

In this regard, the United States, Britain and other international partners are supplying defensive weapons to Ukraine. In particular, the United Kingdom delivered a batch of anti-tank weapons to Ukraine on January 18.

op
By Erikas Mwisi Kambale

BENI, Democratic Republic of Congo (Reuters) - Members of an Islamist militia freed about 20 prisoners during an attack in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's North Kivu province, a local chief and the head of a local humanitarian group said on Wednesday.

The attack occurred Tuesday evening in the small town of Nobili near the Ugandan border, they said. At least three people, including a child and a pregnant woman, were killed by gunshot and during an ensuing stampede as people tried to flee.

Witnesses and an army spokesman blamed the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a Ugandan armed group active in eastern Congo since the 1990s, which has pledged allegiance to Islamic State.

Congo imposed martial law in North Kivu and neighbouring Ituri province last year and began joint operations with Uganda's army in November against the ADF.

"The ADFs who are responsible for this incursion freed all the detainees in the jail and left with them into the bush," said Odette Zawadi, president of a local humanitarian group for the area of Watalinga, adding that three people died.

The Ugandan and Congolese armies intervened, which limited the damage, she said. Chief Mwami Pascal Saambili of Watalinga gave the same information and said four people died.

"We repelled an ADF attack yesterday in Nobili. We deplore the loss of human life, but we reassure the population that we are determined during this state of siege to impose peace in this zone," said army spokesman Captain Antony Mwalushae.

He did not mention the jailbreak.

Prison breaks are fairly common in Congo. In 2020 armed men suspected of belonging to the ADF freed more than 1,300 prisoners in the eastern city of Beni. https://www.reuters.com/article/ozatp-uk-congo-crime-idAFKBN2751R8-OZATP

(Reporting by Erikas Mwisi Kambale; Writing by Nellie Peyton; Editing by Mark Heinrich)
A jury on Wednesday found a former longtime Tarrant County justice of the peace guilty of a felony crime in a case in which she was accused of improperly receiving tax benefits and lying about the location of her principal residence and in which the defendant alleged there was significant personal involvement of the county district attorney.

Jacquelyn Wright was convicted of three counts of falsifying homestead exemptions.

Wright was from 1991 to 2018 justice of the peace in Precinct 4, which covers most of northwest Tarrant County.

Jacquelyn Wright

In Criminal District Court 3, visiting Judge Daryl Coffey sentenced Wright to four years of probation, 10 days in jail and a $2,500 fine, according to the Tarrant County Criminal District Attorneys Office. Coffey also ordered that she write in the next 90 days a 50-page essay apologizing for her behavior.

Wright, 74, falsely applied for and received a residential homestead exemption between 2015 and 2018 for a home where she did not live, the jury found.

Wright was not living in Precinct 4, as required, when she ran for re-election between 2012 and 2018, the jury found.

The day after Wright filed for re-election in 2018, using the address of a home in Precinct 4 that she leased to a renter, Wright changed a water bill into her name to make it appear she lived in that home, according to the district attorneys office.

An attorney representing Wright sought via a subpoena the trial testimony of Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney Sharen Wilson and alleged in a motion that the investigation was launched at a time that for Wright was politically inopportune. The subpoena was quashed, and Wilson did not testify.

The basis for the initiation in April 2018 of the Wright fraud investigation was a 2014 conversation between Wilson and Vickie Phillips, Wright attorney Michael P. Kelly wrote in the motion on the prosecutors subpoena.

Phillips had previously opposed Wright in a Republican primary election.

Story continues

According to Wilson, Phillips verbally told Wilson that she believed [Wright] did not live within Precinct 4 at that time, and personally ordered that [Wright] be investigated, Kelly wrote in the motion.

Wilson sat on the information, Kelly wrote. Four years later she personally asked her White Collar Division to initiate an investigation in the middle a runoff election which involved Wright.

Wilsons office said it began investigating the case after receiving a complaint that Wright did not live in the district in which she sought re-election and later discovered fraudulent homestead exemptions.

Wright did not respond on Wednesday to a message seeking to interview her. She previously referred to the matter in a message to a reporter as a twisted political vendetta.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has constituted a political committee to assist the South-East region to achieve its aim of having a southeasterner as Nigeria's President in 2023.

This development comes after a National Executive Council meeting of the organisation in Enugu, the Enugu State capital.

The meeting was chaired by the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Ambassador George Obiozor and had in attendance delegates from many branches.

The incarceration of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, was also brought up.

Ohanaeze affirmed that the time was ripe to have a Nigerian president of South-East extraction, saying it would help strengthen national unity.

In his words: Nigerian nationalism is receding as ethno-regional nationalism is growing astronomically. It is time to rebuild and restore Nigerian nationalism and national spirit.

As the national situation is today, it will require Pan Nigerians like Igbos to reinvigorate the nation's path to unity. And a southeast Igbo president of Nigeria in 2023 will be one of the most critical but positive decisions of the nation's history because it is the right decision and an idea whose time has come.

In regard to the continued detention of Kanu, Obiozor said, We have been consistent in asking for a political solution to the problem including prerogative of mercy for Nnamdi Kanus freedom and amnesty.

Once more, Ndigbo are not secessionists or separatists. Igbos are prepared and deserve the Presidency. It is politically defensible and morally justifiable. To realise this, the National Executive Council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has established the Political Action Committee to be Chaired by the President General, Ambassador Professor George Obiozor, while the Secretary-General, Ambassador Okey Emuchay, will serve as the Secretary. Full composition will be done soon."
A meeting of Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) foreign ministers is expected to be held later this month in Melbourne.

The last Foreign Ministers meeting was held virtually in February last year.

"The next meeting is expected to be held later this month in Melbourne. We hope to share an update on this soon," External Affairs Ministry's spokesperson Arindam Bagchi at a virtual weekly media briefing.

The first in-person Leader's Summit was held in September last year in the United States. Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the meeting along with leaders of Australia, Japan and the United States.

The leaders shared their respective perspectives on Afghanistan and the regional situation in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific.

(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.)
WATERLOO  The Board of Supervisors lone Republican will run for a second term in November.

Dan Trelka, who retired as Waterloos chief of police in November 2019, was elected to the Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors in 2018, the first Republican elected in a decade.

But he said his philosophy has been to set the party politics aside.

That was one of my goals: To try to maintain harmony to the best of my ability with my fellow board members, he said. And weve accomplished that, in my opinion.

When elected, Trelka told The Courier his top goals included getting the county more involved in economic development efforts to boost the tax base to pay for things like improved mental health services.

He followed that up in November 2019 with a resolution asking the state to do more to address mental health issues, saying the lack of resources disproportionately burdens law enforcement.

I can tell you about incident after incident where the current system is failing our communities, he said at the time.

He said this week its the one thing I want to focus on in my next term, even though mental health services officially have been taken over from counties by the state. He said hes hoping to work with public health to identify issues and coordinate services.

Im afraid counties and communities are going to feel like they can forget about mental health. We cant, he said. The pandemic actually made it worse.

Expanding partnerships between the county and cities within the county is also a priority. He would seek opportunities to share facilities and eliminate redundancies.

He thinks a partnership with Grow Cedar Valley in particular could help bring more businesses and residents to the county.

We need to market and sell ourselves better, because theres so much here to offer, he said. And we need to do a better job of telling others about it.

Trelka is the second person to announce a run for the board, joining Experience Waterloo Executive Director Tavis Hall, a Democrat, who announced his candidacy last week.

Supervisor Craig White, who is also up for reelection this year, has not announced whether he plans to seek a sixth four-year term.

I feel like were accomplishing stuff, and I feel like were on the cusp of accomplishing so much more, Trelka said. It takes a while to get your sea legs in these positions, and I feel like Im there, and I hope the citizens decide to give me another shot at it, because theres so much more we can accomplish.

Trelka served as Waterloo police chief from 2010-2019. Before that, he was police chief in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, from 2003-2010, on the force in Sturgeon Bay since 1992, and deputy sheriff in Weld County, Colorado, from 1990-1992. He is a Marine Corps veteran.

People know me, which is good, Trelka said. I love serving the citizens.

He unsuccessfully challenged Black Hawk County Sheriff Tony Thompson, a Democrat, for his job in 2020. Trelka lost the race by nearly 16 percentage points in a county with a nearly 2-to-1 Democratic voter registration advantage.

As the lone GOP supervisor, Trelka has taken a few quixotic stands during his four years on the board. That included an August motion to adopt a resolution affirming Black Hawk County as a Second Amendment sanctuary, which died when no one seconded it.

Hes occasionally backed the more progressive Democrats on the board, like when he proposed in July 2020 the county put $100,000 toward the purchase of a building for Hospitality House to use as a warming and resource center for the homeless at the request of Supervisor Chris Schwartz. It was ultimately voted down, 3-2.

Im a diplomat, and Im always looking for common ground, Trelka said. Society is tired of the tribalism. Most people want to see compromise.

More often, Trelka has been able to find common ground to form a majority with two of the boards more fiscally conservative Democratic members. Last year, Trelka sided with Tom Little and Craig White in cutting $99,000 from the budget of the health department, money meant to fund a second epidemiologist, in the midst of the winter surge in coronavirus cases.

Some community members, including the mayor of Waterloo, criticized the decision. Hall noted Black Hawk County was disproportionately affected by transmissible diseases, worse than 93 of Iowas 99 counties for poor health behaviors including smoking, excessive drinking, sexually transmitted infections, obesity and more.

We are watching, activist Nilvia Reyes Rodriguez said at the time. We are taking note of what you are doing. And we will hold you accountable in elections.

Trelka said he appreciated candidates like Hall entering the race, noting the competition is healthy.

I love that others are throwing their hats into the ring, because I firmly believe in citizens having a choice, Trelka said. I think itd be unfair if it was only two of us running for two positions.

But he noted he would be honored to continue serving the county.

Ive come to a point where Im really enjoying what Im doing, he said.

Im excited for the future  excited and optimistic.
Wisconsin attorney Jim Troupis, who represented Donald Trump in a failed effort to overturn the states 2020 election results, was notified not long after the November election of a national effort to install alternate electors to help keep the former president in power.

The memo, first reported Wednesday by the New York Times, was sent from attorney Kenneth Chesebro to Troupis, a former Dane County Circuit Court judge, on Nov. 18, 2020  the same day Troupis formally requested election recounts in Dane and Milwaukee counties on behalf of Trumps campaign. Recounts and court decisions have affirmed that President Joe Biden defeated Trump in Wisconsin by almost 21,000 votes.

The memo corroborates reports that the Republican electors were coordinated by Trumps legal team in an attempt to present Vice President Mike Pence with conflicting slates of electors during the congressional certification so that he could throw the election to a House vote, which would have handed the election to Trump. Pence refused to participate in the purported scheme on Jan. 6, 2021, the day of the attack on the U.S. Capitol by attendees of a nearby Trump rally.

The memo was sent a little over a month before 10 Wisconsin Republicans convened in the state Capitol on Dec. 14, 2020, to sign official-looking documents falsely affirming that Trump had won the state. The meeting occurred on the same day that the Democratic slate of Wisconsin electors met in the same building to deliver the states 10 electoral votes to President-elect Biden. The meeting of Republicans occurred after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that Biden had won the election.

Chesebro, a Boston-based attorney who has represented Trump alongside Troupis in the past, details in the memo his legal analysis following a suggestion he made to Troupis in a previous conference call.

In any judicial review of the canvassing/recounting in Wisconsin, we should emphasize that the presidential election timetable affords ample time for judicial proceedings, even if initial errors in the recount require a remand for further recounting, Chesebro wrote.

Chesebro alleges in the memo that there is a very strong argument, supported by historical precedent that the real deadline to come to a conclusion on the states election results was Jan. 6, 2021, rather than Dec. 8, the safe harbor deadline in the federal Electoral Count Act, or Dec. 14, the date that electors must vote in their respective states.

Chesebro adds that, if electors pledged to Trump and Pence cast votes on Dec. 14 and send those votes to the U.S. Senate in time to be opened on Jan. 6, a court decision (or, perhaps, a state legislative determination) rendered after December 14 in favor of the Trump-Pence slate of electors should be considered timely.

It may seem odd that the electors pledged to Trump and Pence might meet and cast their votes on December 14 even if, at that juncture, the Trump-Pence ticket is behind in the vote count, and no certificate of election has been issued in favor of Trump and Pence, Chesebro wrote. However, a fair reading of the federal statutes suggests that this is a reasonable course of action.

Troupis did not respond to a request for comment Thursday.

Bureau sent Vos memos

Documents obtained by the liberal watchdog group American Oversight show that the states nonpartisan Legislative Reference Bureau sent two memos to Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, on Nov. 16, 2020, relating to the states electoral college process.

The memos, which state they were provided upon Vos request, indicate that the Legislature has the ability to determine how presidential electors are selected, but may not affect the electors after an election has taken place as the legislature has no unilateral authority to reverse the choice of the people of the state.

Once the state legislature gives the people the franchise with respect to the appointment of presidential electors, equal protection rules governing the right to vote apply, especially the rule of one person, one vote, Legislative Reference Bureau senior coordinating attorney Michael Gallagher wrote in one memo. As a result, the state legislature may not arbitrarily reverse or otherwise interfere with the choice of the people of the state at a presidential election.

Vos told the Associated Press last month that, despite efforts by Trump and his allies to have the Legislature overturn the results of the 2020 election, there was zero chance the Legislature would take over the process of awarding presidential electors.

My office, and Im certain all other legislative offices, received hundreds of emails calling for the withdrawal of Wisconsins electoral votes, Vos said in a statement Thursday. I believed it was unconstitutional, but we asked the non-partisan Legislative Reference Bureau so we could share the memo with our members and constituents.

Subpoenas

Republican Party of Wisconsin chair Paul Farrow said last week the Republicans who signed the official-looking documents in Wisconsin were advised to do so by attorneys and the actions were done in accordance with precedent. Farrow and the state GOP did not respond Thursday to questions about which attorneys advice they were following.

Official-looking certificates were submitted by Republicans claiming to be electors in six other states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, New Mexico and Pennsylvania.

The Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol has subpoenaed 14 individuals who signed documents in the seven states, including Andrew Hitt, former chair of the state Republican Party, and 8th Congressional District GOP chair Kelly Ruh.

The subpoenas call for Hitt and Ruh to provide documents by Feb. 11 detailing any information about your role and participation in the purported slate of electors casting votes for Donald Trump and, to the extent relevant, your role in the events of January 6, 2021 and sit for depositions on Feb. 28.

Hitt is listed in the signed documents as the chairperson, and Ruh is listed as the secretary.

Hitt said in a statement he absolutely will cooperate with the committees request to provide information.

Others to sign the documents in Wisconsin include Robert Spindell, a Republican who sits on the state Elections Commission; 1st Congressional District GOP vice chair Carol Brunner; Dane County Republican Party chair Scott Grabins; La Crosse County Republican Party chair Bill Feehan; 5th Congressional District GOP chair Kathy Kiernan; 6th Congressional District GOP chair Darryl Carlson; 1st Congressional District GOP vice chair Pam Travis; and Mary Buestrin, vice chair of the Midwest region for the Republican National Committee.

Complaints

Multiple complaints regarding the fake electors were filed last year by liberal law firm Law Forward with the Wisconsin Elections Commission and Milwaukee County District Attorneys Office alleging the Wisconsin Republicans committed fraud. A third complaint was filed against Hitt with the Office of Lawyer Regulation, the agency that handles complaints against lawyers.

So far, none of the agencies have formally taken up the complaints, while Milwaukee County Assistant District Attorney Matthew Westphal recently suggested that the state or federal justice department would be best suited to determine what steps, if any, should be taken on the matter.

The Elections Commission could take up the complaint as early as next month, and Law Forward attorney Jeffrey Mandell has warned that, if no action is taken soon, the group will file a lawsuit over the matter.

Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul has backed a federal investigation into the Republican electors, but has not said if he, too, may look into the complaint.

The results of the 2020 election have been confirmed by county canvassing boards, which compare vote totals against paper records and other procedures designed to catch and correct errors; recounts in Dane and Milwaukee counties; post-election audits by local and state election authorities to identify cases of possible voter fraud, which are then referred to prosecutors; a voting equipment audit by the Elections Commission; and reviews by the nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau and the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, which found ways in which elections could be improved but no evidence of widespread fraud. Multiple court rulings have also found no evidence of irregularities.
A subvariant of the omicron variant of COVID-19 that is believed to be even more contagious than the initial version has been detected in Wisconsin, including in Dane County, health officials said Thursday.

Public Health Madison and Dane County said one case of the subvariant, known as BA.2, has been found in the county. Fewer than five cases have been detected statewide through the genome sequencing done on a small proportion of samples, said Dr. Ryan Westergaard, a chief medical officer with the state Department of Health Services. He didnt say where the other cases were found and noted many more are likely present but undetected.

BA.2 appears to be 1.5 times more contagious than BA.1, the original form of omicron, according to a Danish study released last week in preprint form, meaning it hasnt undergone the peer review typically done for articles in traditional scientific journals.

So far, data have not suggested BA.2 causes more severe illness than BA.1 or better evades immune protection provided by vaccines, health officials have said. The discovery of BA.2 in Wisconsin, which was expected, comes as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations have been dropping.

As for how residents should respond, the same advice applies as with any variant: Get vaccinated, stay up-to-date on your boosters, wear a well-fitted mask, stay home if youre sick, and get tested if you need one, Public Health Madison and Dane County spokesperson Morgan Finke said.

Scientists have been debating whether the highly transmissible omicron variant, which typically causes less severe disease than the delta variant that surged late last summer, might lead COVID-19 to become an endemic disease  regularly present, but in predictable ways that dont disrupt society as much.

Some have argued that the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 remains unpredictable and other variants are likely to emerge.

Westergaard said COVID-19 is likely to become endemic this year, but perhaps with new variants that spark periodic spikes in cases. People might be advised to wear face masks and take other precautions during times of high activity and told they can ease up during low activity periods, he said.

Our expectation, our hope, is that we see more of the same, which is a decline, day-by-day, week-by-week, he said. Whether the new variation, if it takes hold, will cause that decline to occur more slowly is something thats been theorized.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the White Houses chief medical adviser, said last month its not clear if COVID-19 might become endemic this year. The answer is we do not know that, he said at the World Economic Forums Davos Agenda online conference.

State numbers

Wisconsin reported 4,781 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday, for a daily average of 4,679, down from the daily average peak of 18,858 on Jan. 19. Despite the decline, activity is still considered critically high in all 72 counties.

There were 1,387 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Thursday, down from a peak of 2,278 on Jan. 12, according to the Wisconsin Hospital Association. Among those patients, 278 were in intensive care, down from a peak of 488 on Jan. 12, with Wednesday being the first time the tally dropped below 300 since mid-November.

Dane County had 142 patients with COVID-19 in hospitals as of Thursday, the lowest level since Dec. 30, including 30 in intensive care, the lowest since Nov. 15. The peaks were 202 patients on Jan. 11 and 49 in the ICU on Nov. 19, 2020.

Since last month, some 117 Wisconsin National Guard members trained to become certified nursing assistants have worked at 17 nursing homes, to help open beds to take patients who no longer need to be in hospitals. The facilities include Waunakee Manor.

The initial omicron variant was first detected in Wisconsin in early December and by the end of that month became the dominant strain. Vaccination, including booster shots, is the best tool against BA.2 or BA.1, health officials said. As of Thursday, 59.5% of Wisconsin residents, including 77.3% of those in Dane County, were fully vaccinated, not necessarily including boosters.

We cant use a crystal ball to see what COVID-19 will bring us next, but we do know the now approved vaccines for COVID-19 work against these variants when we are fully vaccinated, Dr. Nasia Safdar, a UW Health infectious disease specialist, said in a statement. We can do our parts to prevent prolonging this pandemic by getting vaccinated and getting our booster shots.

Wisconsin residents not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 were 10 times more likely to be hospitalized with the virus and 14 times more likely to die from it than those fully vaccinated in December, according to the state health department.

In Dane County, a person not fully vaccinated was seven times more likely to test positive for COVID-19, 57 times more likely to be hospitalized with it and 58 times more likely to die from it in December than a person who was fully vaccinated and had a booster or additional dose, the city-county health department said.

On Wednesday, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said unvaccinated people nationally were 97 times more likely to die from COVID-19 than those who are vaccinated and boosted. She cited data from the week ending Dec. 4, when the omicron variant had not yet become the dominant strain.
Renee Zellweger said it was essential for her to be unrecognizable in her new NBC crime series The Thing About Pam in a new interview published Wednesday.

The 52-year-old two-time Oscar winner told Vanity Fair that it was 'a great compliment' to hear that so many people couldn't even believe it was her under makeup, prosthetics and a so-called 'fat suit.'

She stars in the dark series as Pam Hupp, who was convicted of the 2016 killing of and sentenced to life in prison, though The Thing About Pam focuses on an earlier murder that Hupp was subsequently accused of.

Renee Zellweger (L) called it a 'great compliment' to be unrecognizable in her new NBC crime series The Thing About Pam in an interview published Wednesday with Vanity Fair; pictured with (LR) Judy Grier, Josh Duhamel, Katy Mixon and Glenn Flesher

'Oh, gosh, if you dont recognize an actor or an actress in a performance, thats a great compliment,' Renee gushed.

She added that being unrecognizable was essential to allowing viewers to sink into the show's story without being distracted by her star power.

'Youre not trying to tell your own story,' she said.

In a new publicity photo for The Thing About Pam, Renee appears in a large blue shirt with baggy jeans and the same white snow boots she's been seen with in recent on-set photos.

The Bridget Jones' Diary star is seen throughout the series wearing a padded body suit to make her appear overweight, and she wears a false nose, extra wrinkles and wig to complete the transformation into Hupp.

Fleshed out: 'Youre not trying to tell your own story,' the 52-year-old star added. She said the performance was also about 'the way Pam carries herself, her dropped foot, her mannerisms, her sniffs, and even the way she often talks with her hands'; seen in 2020 in Hollywood

Transformed: 'It was prosthetics, it was a [padded] suit, it was the choice of clothing, it was the briskness in her step-step-step, her gait,' she explained; still from The Thing About Pam

She said Hupp's unassuming appearance and her non-threatening clothing was an essential part of explaining how she could initially get away with her potential crimes, while her bubbly nature also helped her evade suspicion.

'It seems like shes of generous character, that shes thoughtful, and that shes a good friend,' Renee continued. 'I guess thats part of the deception, isnt it? Because you might assume that thats as far as it goes.'

Showrunner Jenny Klein shared that she found Renee's transformation 'surreal' because of how she nailed Hupp's mannerisms and not just her physical appearance.

'I had studied so many hours of Pam, the real person, on police surveillance videos, and then here she was walking onstage in front of me,' she said. 'And it wasnt just the physical transformation. It was the way Pam carries herself, her dropped foot, her mannerisms, her sniffs, and even the way she often talks with her hands. It was completely mind-blowing because I didnt see Renee. I saw Pam. And that was also a little bit scary.'

Zellweger described her costume as 'pretty much head to toe.'

Societal critiqueThe actress also thought her new limited series helps explain how people can be unwilling to change their opinions based on new information by showing how prosecutors initially refused to believe in Hupp's guilt; still from The Thing About Pam

Wrongful conviction: Betsy Faria's husband Russ (Glenn Flesher) was originally convicted of her murder, before the conviction was overturned on appeal as suspicion turned toward Hupp; still from The Thing About Pam

'It was prosthetics, it was a [padded] suit, it was the choice of clothing, it was the briskness in her step-step-step, her gait,' she explained. 'All of those things were really important because all those bits and pieces are what construct the person that we project our own conclusions and presumptions onto.'

When she was asked what it was like to play the convicted killer, she joked about the smothering layers of prosthetics and thick clothing.

'It was really hot,' she said.

The actress also thought her new limited series helps explain how people can be unwilling to change their opinions based on new information by showing how prosecutors initially refused to believe in Hupp's guilt.

'It reveals a lot about social and personal bias, and how that comes to play in the criminal justice system,' she explained. 'I think the bigger picture is a reflection of where we are socially right now.

'We have such certitude about the conclusions that weve drawn, how we define certain things, and were hesitant to move from our positions based on new information. We would rather find peripheral, unsubstantiated information that supports the view we already have, because somehow that ideology makes us feel safe

Motive: Prosecutors claim Hupp murdered Faria just days after she talked her in to naming Hupp as the beneficiary of her $150,000 life insurance policy; seen in 2016

Back in July 2021, the real-life Hupp pleaded not guilty to the murder of her friend Elizabeth 'Betsy' Faria, who was brutally stabbed 55 times in 2011.

Prosecutors claim that the convicted killer murdered Faria just days after she talked her in to naming Hupp as the beneficiary of her $150,000 life insurance policy.

Faria's husband Russ returned home on the evening of December 27, 2011 to find Betsy had been stabbed numerous times.

Russ was convicted of her murder in 2013, only to have the conviction overturned as police turned their suspicions toward Hupp.

She later pleaded guilty to shooting to death a disabled man named Louis Gumpenberger in 2016 and is currently serving life in prison, though in July she was also charged with Faria's murder.

Mike & Molly actress Katy Mixon appeared in the newest publicity photos as Besty, while Glenn Flesher appears as her husband Russ.

Judy Greer was also seen looking severe in a black wig and a severe bob to play prosecuting attorney Leah Askey, while Josh Duhamel wore a dapper suit and fluffy hair to play Russ' defense attorney.
The current system where recruitment into the Police is done on the basis of local government quotas, will naturally, tilt the numbers in favour of states with more local governments. And in this instance, recruitment at the level of constables, which requires lower certification, may attract a larger pool from areas where such applicants are in significantly larger numbers.

A small news item from a Police statement tucked inside the print edition of PUNCH on Wednesday stirred more interest than usual. In the statement, the Police had asked those who applied for the position of constables to resume at the state commands between February 1 and 20.

But thats not the story. While the Police needed only 10,000 constables, about 130,000 candidates applied; that is, for every single successful applicant, 12 will not be considered, all things being equal. It evoked sad memories of the 2014 tragedy, when six million applied for 4,000 vacancies at the Nigeria Immigration Service, and thousands were locked in a stampede at one interview venue, leaving dozens dead; only this time the potential for such a deadly outcome seemed remote.

But thats not even the main story. In a country as ethnically charged as Nigeria, numbers are not just numbers, they also have tribal marks and ethnic roots. And the story took its headline from these roots. Even though it was inside the print edition, it got 1.3k comments and over 240 shares in four days on the PUNCH Facebook page.

According to the report taken from Police records, out of the nearly 130,000 candidates who applied for the position of constables, 104,403 are northerners, while 23,088 are southerners; which means that one of every four applicants is a northerner. To drive the point home, for example, while Lagos (population: 20 million) has 562 applicants, Kano (population: 21 million) has 7,557 applicants.

That raised more than a few eyebrows. How can the lopsidedness be explained? Is it that in spite of the rampant insecurity in the country, applicants in some parts are not interested in or do not see the need to apply to the force? Is it the nature of the position advertised? Or are there systemic issues that limit applicants from some sections of the country?

To start, recruitment into the Police force itself has been  and remains  a subject of dispute for the past three or four years. The Police Service Commission (PSC) and the management of the force have been locked in a dispute over who has the authority to recruit. Two years ago, the court ruled in favour of the PSC but the hiring pipeline had already been congested as a result of a backlog.

To save the force from collapsing irretrievably under the weight of understaffing, among its many miseries, the PSC and the management decided to bury the hatchet, and they suspended the implementation of the court ruling to allow management handle recruitment for 2020.

But the Police management has extended the period of its own grace and, in spite of the court ruling to the contrary, gone ahead to conduct the recruitment for 2021 without reference to the PSC, an action which may not have a direct bearing on the matter at hand, but is perhaps an indication of a deeper underlying problem with the force.

To understand the possible reasons for the lopsidedness in the applications for this year  which has in fact been the trend in the last two years, at least  well need to go beyond the infighting between the Police management and the PSC.

Why would the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party that promised change and reform and which currently controls the majority at the National Assembly, refuse to implement the recommendations of its own governors, up and down the country, about the need to restructure the system and emplace state and community police?

Why, despite the high level of insecurity in the South-East, are able and qualified young people in the region not interested in enrolling in the force to secure their communities? Why do the two regions with Nigerias highest rate of unemployment (South-South at 37 per cent and South-East 29.1 per cent, according to the NBS) have the lowest applicants for the Police jobs?

Even though the aggregate number of applicants across the country this year far outstrips the available vacancies, why have applications dropped by 35 per cent (from over 200,000 two years ago), with the Police now having to make special appeals for applicants to come forward?

The answer, in shorthand, is that the Police force is no longer fit for purpose. Yet, the nature and impact of its obsolescence can hardly be captured in shorthand.

Once the military hijacked the decentralised and regionalised police force after the 1966 coup, it ensured that everything was brought under a central command, without regard to the needs of states and local communities. Whatever survived that deadly raid was finished off in the 1980s after the overthrow of President Shehu Shagaris government. The army not only purged the force, it raided its armoury and squeezed the life out of any wiggle room left of police independence, even though the services had different and clearly separate constitutional roles.

The net effect of this power grab was that the Police force lost its way. It changed from a regional service attuned, responsive and accountable to the needs of local communities to one in which a central command in the Force Headquarters decides everything, from the cost of stationery to suppliers and from the cost of fueling patrol vans to awards of contracts for uniforms, recruitment, promotion and discipline across the 774 local governments in Nigeria.

As the police-civilian ratio plummeted, reaching 1:541, the force became overwhelmed. While officers turned a blind eye, the rank-and-file improvised methods for their own survival. These methods included but were not limited to extortions at roadblocks and hiring out of weapons in their care, the proceeds of which sometimes were demanded by and reached the very top.

Until the elite themselves became targets and victims of the upsurge in crimes as a result of the near total collapse of the Police force, they didnt bother. They were happy to pay for and be assigned policemen for their personal protection and for those of their family members, while the rest of the population was left to look out for themselves. Skyrocketing crimes, especially banditry and kidnappings, changed that. Today, the military has been forced, in many instances, to become the first line of defence, even in the forte of the Police: Internal maintenance of law and order and crime prevention.

The system cannot cope any longer.

Why would the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party that promised change and reform and which currently controls the majority at the National Assembly, refuse to implement the recommendations of its own governors, up and down the country, about the need to restructure the system and emplace state and community police?

Why isnt it obvious to the Federal Government that, on the whole, apart from lending itself for use in private errands and election rigging, the Police force is hardly serviceable for anything else? Yet the same states that Abuja is unwilling to relinquish control to are the ones funding the force, without the benefit of holding them to account.

The flawed recruitment system, which is prevalent in the security services, neither enhances the image of the services nor inspires confidence in them. And worse, the bulk of the recruits end up in communities from which they feel alienated and, which in turn, do not feel obliged to share confidence vital to get the job done. Large sections of the country cant see a future for themselves in the Nigeria Police. Thats why the applications are falling.

I watched the comical video of the House constitution review committee voting down the proposal for state police by a vote of 14  11, and couldnt for the life of me understand if the committee chairman was counting hands for those for state police and counting hands and legs for those against it. The vote would have made nice comedy, if it wasnt a serious matter.

Advertising for a larger pool for the Nigeria police is not the answer. The lukewarm response from sections of the country should make the message loud and clear.

The current system where recruitment into the Police is done on the basis of local government quotas, will naturally, tilt the numbers in favour of states with more local governments. And in this instance, recruitment at the level of constables, which requires lower certification, may attract a larger pool from areas where such applicants are in significantly larger numbers.

But what really is the sense in maintaining the current recruitment/operational structure of the Police that is based on quotas that completely and willfully ignore the peculiar security needs and challenges of communities? Whose interest does this system serve?

The flawed recruitment system, which is prevalent in the security services, neither enhances the image of the services nor inspires confidence in them. And worse, the bulk of the recruits end up in communities from which they feel alienated and, which in turn, do not feel obliged to share confidence vital to get the job done. Large sections of the country cant see a future for themselves in the Nigeria Police. Thats why the applications are falling.

Its instructive that while the Eastern Security Network, IPOB, Amotekun and even the hisbah continue to attract droves of talented and enthusiastic young people, a number of who are happy to serve on voluntary basis, the Nigeria Police is at its wits end to find competent recruits for the service.

The force has passed its sell by date. What the Federal government needs is a relatively small, highly resourced Federal police, whose powers and functions, by law, need not conflict with those in regional and state forces, especially in areas of federal and cross-border crimes.

Of the 54 commonwealth countries  including those with spectacularly unitary systems of government  Nigeria has the reputation, closely followed by Uganda and Sierra Leone, of having one of the most notoriously centralised police forces. Yet, Nigeria is a federal state.

The system is not working. The force must reform or face extinction.

Azu Ishiekwene is Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP.
The Nigerian government is stepping up push to quash oil theft activities estimated at $4 billion yearly in the hope that the move will strengthen production which has tumbled by over 25 per cent, Bloomberg reported Thursday citing an interview with Gbenga Komolafe, head of Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission.

Called bunkering in the local parlance, the illicit industry eats away at the countrys daily output by about 10 per cent or 150,000 barrels, according to the watchdogs head, on account of actions of persons breaching pipelines to siphon oil.

Production slid from 1.7 million barrels per day to 1.5 million January through December last year, causing Nigeria to concede the top oil producing nation on the continent to Libya.

The government is nursing a lofty ambition to double the current figure, Mr Komolafe said, an aspiration that needs more than oil theft crackdown for its actualisation.

Africas largest producer has been plagued by oil theft since the late 1970s as attention shifted to crude following a post-civil war oil boom.

But its vast reserves of oil and natural gas (currently at 206 trillion cubic feet) has brought a wealth of sorrow marked by oil spill disasters, inept and graft-ridden management, decrepit refinery infrastructures as well as years of militancy and restiveness, all of which have positioned it as a poster child for the resource curse.

In naira terms, Nigerias annual loss to crude theft is roughly N1.7 trillion, 31.6 per cent bigger than the annual IGR and federal allocation of the nine states of the Niger Delta (the region that produces all the oil) put together, totalling N1.3 trillion for 2020 according to data from BudgITs State of States.

Pretty soon you will see a reverse in that trend, Komolafe said, hinting that security strategy would be deployed.
The Nigerian Army said its troops of 4 Brigade on Wednesday killed three kidnappers believed to be part of the notorious kidnap and robbery gang terrorising motorists along Auchi-Benin Road in Edo State.

The army spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu, in a statement in Abuja, said the kidnappers met their waterloo while carrying out their nefarious operation along the road.

He said the kidnappers ran out of luck as the vigilant troops swooped on them and engaged them in a gun duel which led to the killing of three members of the gang.

He said other gang members fled in different directions.

Mr Nwachukwu, a brigadier-general, said the gallant troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one pump-action shotgun and other dangerous weapons.

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He said efforts were ongoing to track the fleeing criminals and free that corridor from all forms of violent crime.

The Nigerian Army wishes to enjoin the general public, particularly the good people of Edo, to continue to expose criminal elements in their localities to law enforcement agencies.

They are also urged to go about their normal activities as efforts are in place to ensure seamless security, the army spokesperson, said.

(NAN)
Don't tax and punish the rich to make the poor prosper

Ms. Michelle Knight's letter to the editor, "Tell Sens. Toomey and Casey to support the Build Back Better Plan," must know the simple truth that you cannot legislate the poor into prosperity by trying to legislate the wealthy out of prosperity.

John F. Kennedy cut the top tax rate of 91% to 70% which triggered the 1960s economic boom. Ronald Reagan continued the march in 1981, cutting the top rate to 50% and again with the tax reform of 1986 that cut the top rate to 28%. I realize it's impolite to mention this tax history these days since we live in an era when the wealthy are supposed to be punished for their own sake.

Which means we may have to learn these lessons in economic reality again the hard way  from painful experience.

Dennis M. Kudlak, Erie

Where is the accountability for the attack on our democracy?

In May 2020, thousands of mostly peaceful protestors gathered in Portland, Oregon, and other cities. As in the other events protesting the public police murder of George Floyd, there were a small number of dangerous, destructive idiot thugs arrested. They got jail time of up to nine years  even though they were not traitors to America.

After the Jan. 6, 2021, deadly insurrection to overthrow the American government, few of those convicted got prison sentences of at least four years and many got house arrest of two to six months  a piece of cake compared to drug users and shoplifters or even drunk drivers, who are also not traitors to our nation.

Rioters scale a wall at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

I remember the summer of 1953 when Julius and Ethel Rosenburg were electrocuted in New York's Sing Sing Prison for passing secrets to the Russians, but they didn't storm the Capitol, injuring and trying to kill its police defenders.

Benedict Arnold promised the British enemy he would turn over West Point to them for money and high rank in their Army. He faced hanging but escaped to Britain.

Jefferson Davis led the Confederacy to destroy the Union. His defeat led to his imprisonment at Fort Monroe, Virginia.

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In World War II, private Eddie Slavik was executed for leaving his post but he didn't try to overthrow our government because of a losing president's desperate and proven lie of election fraud.

The 137 Republican members of the House of Representatives and eight members of the Senate voted to destroy democracy in January 2021. They are traitors all and not yet brought to justice.

Arizona taxpayers were forced to pay more than $6 million for a third, unnecessary partisan election audit in just one county, which showed Trump lost by more votes than the original count.

In Pennsylvania, GOP lawmakers are investigating the election that has been proven to be a Trump loss. We were already on the hook to pay $275,000 to audit Fulton County, which has less than 15,000 people. The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania blocked a third-party company from inspecting voting machines supplied by Dominion Voting Systems in Fulton County, at least temporarily.

How much will it cost to audit all 67 counties  for nothing but a burden on taxpayers.

If the GOP really wants this or any other audit, why don't they, instead of taxpayers, pay for it?

More: Pennsylvania GOP's election probe is an unnecessary and wasteful fool's errand

And as for the GOP's voter suppression efforts in numerous states, it is our duty to vote, not to be denied this right. Republican sedition, voter repression, gerrymandering, discriminatory purging and insurrection leads to one-party tyranny.

Tell your representatives to support federal voting rights legislation.

Roland Curry, Sharon

Columnist misses the mark on North Carolina politician

In Terris E. Todd's otherwise thoughtful guest column on "Black American triumphs..." I was startled to note his inclusion of and praise for North Carolina Lt. Governor Mark Robinson. Robinson is on record as having made public comments that display antisemitism, bigoted hostility to Muslims, and homophobia and transphobia. He has also called President Obama "a worthless, anti-American atheist" and Michelle Obama a man. Finally, he has dismissed the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a "globalist" conspiracy against Donald Trump.

This man, despite his admirable overcoming of a difficult childhood, is not someone who merits a place alongside Frederick Douglass and Mary McLeod Bethune in a pantheon of African American achievers. For Mr. Todd to give him such a place shows extraordinarily poor judgment.

S.J. Sullivan, Erie

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Letters: Don't punish the rich with taxes, Jan. 6 justice, Terris Todd
Today is the anniversary of the founding of Abuja as the federal capital of Nigeria. Forty-six years ago, there was no town or city situated on the present location of Abuja, the capital city of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Only a few patches of the approximately 8,000 square kilometres Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were not virgin, forested as of 1976. The few sparsely inhabited settlements largely dotted by round-shaped mud huts roofed with grass were Garki, Abaji, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kubwa, Rubochi, Karu, Bwari, Ushafa, Gwagwada, Idu, Zuba, Karshi, Kwali.

While the main ethnic groups were Gwari, Gwandara, Gede, Ebira and Nupe, few Nigerians from other ethnic stocks like Fulani, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba and Tiv also lived among them; undertaking activities like farming, petty trading, livestock herding, blacksmithing and other trades.

The evolution of Abuja as the capital city of Nigeria started on February 3, 1976, when the Head of the Federal Military Government, Murtala Muhammed in a nationwide broadcast, announced the creation of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The broadcast came on the heels of the acceptance of the recommendations of a committee headed by Akinola Aguda, a retired Nigerian jurist and former Chief Justice of Botswana. The committee was set up to review the need for a new federal capital city and the suitability of Abuja for that purpose. The committee was set up by the Murtala Muhammed-led Federal Military Government in August 1975.

The committee comprised of Akinola Aguda (Chairman), Mohammed Isma (Secretary), Ajato Gandonu, a geography professor and town planner, Tai Solarin, an educator and social critic, Owen Feibai, O.K. Ogan and Pedro Martins, the first Catholic Chaplain of the Nigerian Army.

The committee chose the current location of Abuja out of a wide range of other suggested areas such as Kafanchan, Kaduna, Lokoja, Auchi, Lafia, Okene, Osara, Makurdi, Agena, Ife and Agege. A rusty historical town located about 30 kilometres away in the contiguous areas with Niger State which was later renamed Suleja was the emirate town that originally bore the name, Abuja. It ceded the name to the then nameless new Federal Capital 46 years ago in 1976.

There are a number of reasons that informed the choice of Abuja as the new federal capital of Nigeria. Chief among these is its centrality of location in Nigeria, ethno-religious neutrality, availability of enough land for expansion and non-ancestral dominance of the area by any of the nations major ethnic groups.

By moving its capital from Lagos to Abuja, Nigeria joined the league of other countries that changed their capital cities. Some other countries that successfully changed their capital cities are Australia which moved its capital from Melbourne to Canberra, Brazil from Rio de Janeiro to Brasilia, Tanzania from Dar-es-salam to Dodoma, Malawi which relocated its capital from Zomba to Lilongwe and Cote DIvoire from Abidjan to Yamoussoukro.

The decision to create a new federal capital from scratch in 1976 did not come without some scepticism, although they were largely stymied by the fiat of the military at that time. Some critics queried the rationale behind such a humungous project that would gulp trillions of naira. Others dismissed the argument of building a more centralized capital as puerile since many other capital cities such as London (UK), Washington DC (USA), Accra (Ghana), Cairo (Egypt) and Beijing (China) are not centrally located. A few sceptics thought the idea of a new capital was a utopia that would be discarded along the line by another regime.

In a similar vein, some argued that moving the Federal Capital city to a virgin land would not work in a country like Nigeria that was notorious for project abandonment. But today, Abuja has not only become a reality but a relative success story. The enchanting city has become the pride of the nation and our veritable centre of unity. Yes, Abuja has become the desired destination for many Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, religion, geography or creed.

The authoritys explanation that the decision to relocate the capital city was informed by the realization that Lagos, a coastal city situated on the Southwestern tip of Nigeria, could no longer effectively continue to serve as both the federal capital of Nigeria and the capital of Lagos State, ultimately sunk in. The pressure exerted on the densely populated Lagos by the dual role was exacerbated by its relative poor spatial planning. Also the challenge of congestion arising from Lagos position as the commercial and industrial nerve centre of Nigeria buoyed the attraction of a more expansive and purpose-planned Abuja as the new capital.

After the designation of Abuja in 1976, Lagos continued to serve as the functional capital city of Nigeria until December 12, 1991, when the office of the President of Nigeria was effectively relocated to Abuja during the regime of Ibrahim Babangida, the self-styled president and a serving general in the Nigerian Armed Forces. Mr Babangida thus has the historical credit as the Head of State who mustered the willpower to implement the practical relocation of the seat of the Nigerian federal government from Lagos to Abuja on that date.

Abuja, as the capital of the Black worlds most populous country, is presumed to command pride of place on the African continent and the world generally. The effective relocation of the federal capital from Lagos to Abuja was followed by the graduated movement of all the federal ministries, parastatals and key agencies to the new and more spacious federal capital.

Against the backdrop of limitation of land space in Lagos for expansion, the Nigerian federal government, upon the founding of Abuja, set aside a large area of land measuring 8,000 square kilometres for the development of the new capital which was to be in phases. Out of this extensive land area, the Abuja Federal Capital City (FCC) occupies 250 square kilometres and constitutes the nucleus of the Capital Territory. The territory, which is larger than the entire Lagos State in territorial size, was, as earlier stated, designated as the FCT. After the nationwide broadcast by Murtala Muhammed pronouncing Abuja as the new federal capital on February 3, 1976, Decree No 6 (now an Act) was enacted by the federal government two days later on February 5, 1976, to back the creation of the FCT. The decree established the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), charged with the responsibility of planning and developing the city and the FCT at large.

Successive federal governments since 1976 have kept faith with the Abuja dream by implementing programmes aimed at making it the irreversible reality that it has become. The governments of President Shehu Shagari (1979  1983) and Ibrahim Babangida (1985-1993) rank among the most intense in terms of physical development. The regime of Olusegun Obasanjo, then a serving general of the Nigerian Army (1976-1979) prepared the groundwork for the development of the capital city by producing the Abuja Master Plan.

The only seemingly dull era in the building of Abuja was between 1983 and 1985 when Muhammadu Buhari, a serving army major-general who toppled the democratic government of Shehu Shagari in December 1983 was Head of State. Mr Buhari halted virtually all developmental projects in the city based on allegations of corruption in contract awards by the ousted civilian administration. That period of inertia perhaps explains the burst of energy unleashed on the fledgling capital city by the succeeding regime of Ibrahim Babangida to make up for the lull.

The Babangida administration notably built the International Conference Centre, Garki District, the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) Secretariat in Asokoro as well as commissioned the iconic Transcorp Hilton (formerly NICON NOGA) and the five-star Sheraton Hotel, Abuja. These edifices greatly helped to upgrade the architectural landscape of Abuja as a cosmopolitan city.

Based on the provisions of Chapter Eight, Part One, sections 297 to 304 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution as amended, the FCT shall be treated as if it were one of the states of the federation. For this reason, successive Presidents or Heads of State have always appointed the minister to administer the FCT on their behalf. Section 302 of the constitution provides that The President may, in exercise of the powers conferred upon him by section 147 of this Constitution, appoint for the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja a Minister who shall exercise such powers and perform such functions as may be delegated to him by the President, from time to time.

The first person to serve as a full-fledged Minister of FCT was John Kadiya who governed the Territory between 1979 and1982. Before him, Mobolaji Ajose Adeogun had served as the first and only administrator of the FCT between 1976 and 1979 when the new capital was still on the drawing board. Perhaps, that explains why he mainly operated from an office in Ikoyi, Lagos State.

Mr Kadiya was succeeded by Iro Abubakar Dan Musa (1982-1983); Haliru Dantoro (October 1983-December 31, 1983); Mamman Jiya Vatsa, a poet and major-general of the Nigerian Army (1984-1985) and Hamza Abdullahi, a major-general (1986-1989).

Others were Gado Nasko, a lieutenant general (1989-1993); Jeremiah Useni, a lieutenant general (1993-1998); Mamman Kontagora, a major-general (1998-1999); Ibrahim Bunu, an architect (1999-2001); Muhammed Gana, an electrical engineer (2001  2003); Nasir El-Rufai, a quantity surveyor (2003-2007); Aliyu Modibbo, a university lecturer (2007  2008), Adamu Aliero, former governor of Kebbi State (2008-2010), Bala Mohammed, a former civil servant (2010-2015) and the incumbent Muhammad Bello, an ex-banker.

On December 12, 1991, during the regime of Ibrahim Babangida as military president and Gado Nasko as the FCT minister, a historical landmark was recorded as the seat of the federal government eventually moved from Lagos to Abuja. From that date onwards, Abuja began to grow exponentially in population. Apart from the accompanying movement of federal civil servants with their family members and dependents to Abuja, many other persons, companies and organisations that transact business or seek public service relationships have been migrating in droves to the new capital since then. Also, politicians and political activities usually gravitate to and concentrate on Abuja as the seat of the central government.

The phenomenal growth of Abuja and expansion of the new federal capital from 1976 till date together with the attendant gains and challenges of the area as an evolving megacity has remained a burning issue on the national stage.

Among the challenges being grappled with by the federal government through the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the FCDA are the pressure exerted by the surging population on available infrastructure. The pressure has given rise to sundry problems in the capital territory such as illegal structures and squatter settlements, environmental hazards, insecurity, congestion, vandalism and widening infrastructure gaps among others.

In recent times, requests for land allocations in Abuja by various categories of the territorys residents have continued to surge. More migrants including business people, companies, investors, politicians and top government officials seek land to build more houses of different types including residential, institutional, office, commercial and mass housing or estates.

In their response to the rising demand for land allocation, the officialdoms have been unwittingly creating bigger problems in the process of solving less pernicious ones. Some have complicated matters through the allocation of thousands of plots in phases and districts that are yet to be provided or serviced with critical infrastructure like underground sewerage for liquid and solid wastes, power grid, access roads, pipe-borne water and other facilities.

More efforts are needed in the enforcement of the Abuja Master Plan to curb illegal developments and impunity in land administration. Adoption of better techniques of securing lives and property in the capital city leveraging modern technology is a desideratum in Abujas journey towards becoming a megacity.

The Abuja Town Centre along the Central Business District (CBD) corridor deserves to be fully developed as a world-class 24-hour business district comparable to Manhattan in New York, Oxford Street in London, or the Champ DElysee in Paris for Abuja to thumb its chest as a global megacity. This can only be achievable through government engagement with well-heeled private sector investors.

The remodelled Land Swap Project in the FCT which has the richest man and woman in Africa, Aliko Dangote and Folorunsho Alakija, among the key investors should be properly wooed by the government for accelerated development of more districts and the solving of the lingering infrastructure challenge.

Despite these and other related challenges, the city of Abuja which doubles as the headquarters of the ECOWAS has become a veritable melting pot for many Nigerians and West Africans. And it is debatably so, for many other Africans and Black people elsewhere. Abuja has been widely recognised as one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. It has evolved into what it is today as the ultimate conference destination of Africa.

Abuja, the city of the enchanting Aso rock, is still an evolving huge construction zone which if well superintended can be a beautiful tourist destination and a dream city of abode for many Nigerians that have made it either in the country or the Diaspora. The new capital city has transformed as one of the strongest factors binding the country together as one. Abuja can be the citizens cherished common heritage as Nigerians. At 46, Abuja has the potential to become the pride of the black man anywhere in the world.
Today at 12:00pm ET, Element 29 hosts a webinar to review the Flor De Cobre project - click HERE

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 3, 2022) - Element 29 Resources Inc. (TSXV: ECU) (OTCQB: EMTRF) ("Element 29" or the "Company") announces today that the Company has commenced a 3,700 metre ("m") drill program at its Flor de Cobre Copper Project ("Flor de Cobre" or "Project") in southern Peru (Figure 1).

Flor de Cobre is strategically located within the Southern Peru Copper Belt at a moderate elevation of less than 2,700 m and is road accessible with excellent infrastructure for mine development and operation.

Paul Johnston, Element 29's Vice President of Exploration comments, "This drill program is an important milestone for the Company. The historical resource estimate at Candelaria was delineated in the early 1990s and has not seen modern exploration for almost 30 years. We are excited to begin drilling as it provides us with the opportunity to potentially validate this historical resource estimate and explore for primary copper sulphide mineralization below the supergene enrichment blanket to depths of over 500 metres."

The objectives of the drill program are to validate the historical copper ("Cu") resource estimate of 57.4 million tonnes of 0.67% Cu associated with a supergene enrichment blanket formed on the Candelaria porphyry ("Candelaria") and to explore for primary Cu sulphide mineralization under the enrichment blanket to depths of over 500 m. Historical drilling intersected 272 m of 0.92% Cu starting at 78 m depth, including 116 m of 1.4% Cu as secondary enrichment followed by 156 m of 0.58% Cu as primary sulfides from drill hole K-008.

The source of the historical resource estimate is a press release issued by Rio Amarillo Mining Ltd. dated November 15, 1996 (Rio Amarillo Mining Ltd., November 15th, 1996: Aija Property Drill Results). This historical resource is relevant to Flor de Cobre as it suggests supergene-enriched mineralization of interest may be present at Candelaria. However, the Company cautions that the parameters, assumptions, and methods used to calculate the historical estimate are unknown. Additionally, the historical estimate does not use resource categories described in CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (2014). It is also unclear what portion of this historical resource estimate is within the current Flor de Cobre property configuration. A Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource, and it is unclear what work might be required to confirm the resource. For these reasons, the historical resource has not been verified by the Company and the Company is not treating the historical estimate as a current mineral resource.

Story continues

The original source of the historical mineralized intervals in diamond drill hole K-008 is a press release issued by Rio Amarillo Mining Ltd. dated March 1, 1994 (Rio Amarillo Mining Ltd., March 1st, 1994: Drilling Results from Candelaria Project; Cominco's Option to Lapse on Guabisay Project). They suggest hypogene (primary) sulfide mineralization may be present beneath supergene mineralization. The diamond drill core from K-008 and sample reject material is no longer available for geochemical analysis, which prevents a Qualified Person from verifying these copper geochemical results. For these reasons, the historical copper geochemical assay results from diamond drill hole K-008 have not been verified by the Company.

The Company's drill program consists of approximately 3,700 m of diamond drilling centred on the Candelaria porphyry (Figure 2). A total of 2,180 m has been allocated to twin nine legacy drill holes to verify the accuracy of existing historical geochemical assay and drill logs (Table 2). These nine drill holes are interpreted to represent 74% of the copper contained in the historical copper resource estimate and potentially verify the assay results and provide the level of confidence needed for completion of a possible resource estimate that meets CIM best practice guidelines. The remaining 1,520 m allocated to the drill program will test the primary copper sulfide mineralization potential below the supergene enrichment blanket to depths of more than 500 m as shown in Figure 2.

The Company continues to progress drill permitting on the Atravezado porphyry target ("Atravezado") in preparation for initial drill-testing of a priority porphyry target supported by coincident outcrop geology, surface geochemistry, and geophysical response. Atravezado is located approximately 1.5 kilometres ("km") northwest of Candelaria and is a 1.5 km x 1.6 km circular zone characterized by outcropping copper oxide mineralization in association with quartz vein stockworks and potassic alteration (Figure 3). Late-mineral porphyry dikes are also mapped within the target area.

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 press release.

Technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Paul Johnston, the Company's Vice President of Exploration, who is Element 29's qualified person under National Instrument 43-101 and responsible for technical matters of this press release.

Table 1: List of nine historical drill holes and their coordinates all of which are located on the Company's property that have been selected for twinning in the upcoming 2022 drilling campaign at the Candelaria target of the Flor de Cobre project. Hole depths are the depths of the historical holes.

Hole ID

(historical) East North Elevation

(m) Length

(m) Azimuth

(degrees) Dip

(degrees) Original Hole Type K-008 245888 8148409 2,776 350 0 -90 DDH CAR-190 246004 8148314 2,791 230 0 -90 RC CAR-188 245812 8148419 2,800 256 0 -90 RC M-008 245894 8148213 2,786 294 0 -90 DDH CAR-189 245911 8148317 2,793 208 0 -90 RC I-008 245937 8148571 2,752 147 0 -90 DDH CAR-186 246212 8148415 2,772 211 0 -90 RC K-010 246086 8148405 2,801 257 0 -90 DDH K-006 245719 8148358 2,825 231 0 -90 DDH new 1 245610 8148517 2,743 30 -65 DDH new 2 246104 8148478 2,789 210 -65 DDH

Coordinates are in WGS84 zone 18S UTM

About Flor de Cobre

Flor de Cobre is a porphyry copper exploration project that contains the Candelaria and the recently outlined Atravezado porphyry copper targets. The property is located in the Southern Peru Copper Belt and is 5 km northwest of Nexa Resources' Chapi mine and 26 km southeast of the Cerro Verde mine. Candelaria is a classic Andean porphyry system with primary copper sulfide mineralization associated with a multi-phase quartz monzonite porphyry complex. Weathering redistributed primary mineralization into a sub-horizontal enrichment blanket containing secondary copper oxide and sulfide minerals at the base of a hematitic leached cap. Remnants of the upper jarositic component of the leached cap overlying the hematitic cap are preserved on the higher hill tops around the Candelaria prospect. Atravezado is a porphyry copper exploration target located about 1.5 km northwest of Candelaria. An IP survey completed in 2020 outlined a core of moderate resistivity measuring 1.5 x 1.6 km that coincides with widespread copper oxide mineralization, strong copper geochemistry, and late-stage quartz monzonite porphyry dikes. The resistive core is surrounded by a high-chargeability halo corresponding with weathered quartz-sericite-pyrite alteration.

About Element 29 Resources Inc.

Element 29 Resources Inc. is an emerging copper exploration and development company focused on advancing its portfolio of Peruvian projects towards development in one of the world's lowest-risk mining jurisdictions. Element 29's growth strategy is led by our strong board and management, who have a proven track record of discovery and delivering significant value to our shareholders.

The Company's principal objective is to explore and develop its flagship Flor de Cobre porphyry Cu-Mo project located in southern Peru, 26 km southeast from Freeport-McMoRan's Cerro Verde Cu-Mo mine. At the same time, the Company intends to build on its potential copper inventory with continued exploration of its Flor de Cobre project as well as its remaining 22,000 hectares of mining concessions in Peru, including the recently discovered Elida porphyry copper-molybdenum-silver system located 85 km from the coast in central Peru. Both projects are well located for future mine development and will benefit from nearby infrastructure including roads, powerlines, ports, water, and a skilled workforce.

More information is available at www.e29copper.com.

For more information:

David Jan

Investor Relations

1-888-246-7881

info@e29copper.com

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "Forward-looking Statements"). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, constitute Forward-looking Statements. Words such as "will", "intends", "proposed" and "expects" or similar expressions are intended to identify Forward-looking Statements. Forward looking Statements in this press release include statements related the Company's resource properties, and the Company's plans, focus and objectives.

Forward-looking Statements involve various risks and uncertainties and are based on certain factors and assumptions. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include uncertainties related to fluctuations in copper and other commodity prices, uncertainties inherent in the exploration of mineral properties, the impact and progression of the COVID-19 pandemic and other risk factors set forth in the Company's prospectus under the heading "Risk Factors". The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any Forward-looking Statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Element 29 to predict all of them or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any Forward-looking Statement. Any Forward-looking Statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Figure 1. The Flor de Cobre Project is located in the Southern Peru Copper Belt, between the Cerro Verde and Chapi mines.





To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7414/112660_668bc43df453d9d2_001full.jpg

Figure 2. Historical drill hole locations selected for twinning by the 2022 drilling campaign. Details of the twinned holes are given in table 1.





To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7414/112660_668bc43df453d9d2_002full.jpg

Figure 3. The Atravezado porphyry target characterized by a low resistivity low contrast, anomalous copper geochemistry, potassic alteration and associated quartz vein stockworks. Phyllic alteration correlates with zones of high chargeability. The Candelaria target area is located 2.7 km to the southeast.





To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7414/112660_668bc43df453d9d2_003full.jpg

Image 1: Diamond drill rig arriving on site for the start of the Flor de Cobre program.





To view an enhanced version of Image 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7414/112660_668bc43df453d9d2_004full.jpg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/112660
In 2021, the European Investment Bank (EIB) signed agreements on financing infrastructure and innovation projects in Ukraine for a total sum of EUR 554.

Head of the EIB Resident Representation for Ukraine Jean-Erik de Zagon said this at a briefing, an Ukrinform correspondent reported.

In particular, the EIB issued EUR 270 million, almost half of its financing provided to partners in Ukraine, for infrastructure rehabilitation at Boryspil International Airport.

In addition, the EIB invested EUR 100 million to upgrade electricity-powered public transport in Kyiv city. According to Jean-Erik de Zagon, this financing will enable the introduction of more environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient electricity-powered public transport, improve the quality of daily life, and reduce air and noise pollution.

Last year, the EIB also directed EUR 58 million to support the ongoing modernization of Ukraine vocational education and training system.

Jean-Erik de Zagon reminded of the EIBs support for the private sector in Ukraine is diverse and covers companies of all sizes operating in key sectors of the national economy. The EIB provided a EUR 106 million loan to modernize Ukraine agricultural sector and improve food supply.

We also disbursed EUR 50 million from another project to purchase COVID-19 vaccines. Another EUR 29 million were provided as technical assistance for the development of important investment projects to be implemented in Ukraine," said de Zagon.

As reported, the European Investment Bank has invested more than EUR 7 billion in Ukraine since 2007.

iy
DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "SDHI Fungicides - Global Market Trajectory & Analytics" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Global SDHI Fungicides Market to Reach US$3.4 Billion by the Year 2027

Global market for SDHI Fungicides estimated at US$2.2 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$3.4 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 7.6% over the analysis period.

Growth in the global market is set to be fueled by the emergence of advanced products for crop protection. The issue assumes greater significance as there has of late been an increasing demand for providing and ensuring food protection to ensure the safety of a fast growing global population and for increasing the productivity of arable land worldwide.

Rising global development and urbanization have reduced the total volume of arable land globally, which again will propel the market's growth. SDIF fungicides have been effectively used to control turfgrass diseases and also in other resistance management initiatives. Increasing agricultural trade also has contributed to the growth of products for crop protection.



Boscalid, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to grow at a 6.2% CAGR to reach US$872.4 Million by the end of the analysis period.

After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Fluopyram segment is readjusted to a revised 8.8% CAGR for the next 7-year period. This segment currently accounts for a 20% share of the global SDHI Fungicides market. Boscalid, a new range of fungicide, is an odorless white crystalline solid mainly intended for use on food crops.

Boscalid fungicide controls a diverse range of plant pathogens in broadacre and horticultural crops. Rising demand for high-quality fungicides from crop growers across the world is poised to inflate the demand for boscalid in the next few years. Fluopyram is a broad-spectrum fungicide formulated to suppress a broad array of deuteromycete and ascomycete diseases in many horticultures and arable crops.

Rapidly changing lifestyle trends and health concerns associated with processed food are anticipated to steer the demand for farm produced fruits and vegetables over the coming years. The scenario in turn is expected to drive the market for fluopyram.

Penthiopyrad Segment to Reach $600.7 Million by 2026

Penthiopyrad is a carboxamide fungicide formulated to control a wide spectrum of diseases on a broad variety of corps. Penthiopyrad is intended for control of fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, botrytis, various scab diseases, rots, and blights.

In the global Penthiopyrad segment, USA, Canada, Japan, China and Europe will drive the 8.3% CAGR estimated for this segment. These regional markets accounting for a combined market size of US$284.8 Million in the year 2020 will reach a projected size of US$498.9 Million by the close of the analysis period.

China will remain among the fastest growing in this cluster of regional markets. Led by countries such as Australia, India, and South Korea, the market in Asia-Pacific is forecast to reach US$55.6 Million by the year 2026.



The U.S. Market is Estimated at $604.5 Million in 2021, While China is Forecast to Reach $392.5 Million by 2026

The SDHI Fungicides market in the U.S. is estimated at US$604.5 Million in the year 2021. The country currently accounts for a 26.1% share in the global market.

China, the world's second largest economy, is forecast to reach an estimated market size of US$392.5 Million in the year 2026 trailing a CAGR of 8.2% through the analysis period. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 5.8% and 8.5% respectively over the analysis period.

Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 6.7% CAGR while Rest of European market (as defined in the study) will reach US$422.7 Million by the end of the analysis period. Europe dominates the SDHI fungicides market as there have been growing concerns in Spain about the Botrytis cinerea.

Gray Mold Decay has always been a major crop malady, particularly in some European nations, especially Spain. The disease causes pre and post-harvest decay in grapes, simultaneously affecting other unrelated components and crops. SDHI fungicide is applied post-harvest to tackle the situation. The US is also a major for SDHI fungicides due to an increasing food demand in the region and for crop security.



Key Topics Covered:



I. METHODOLOGY



II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY



1. MARKET OVERVIEW

A Prelude to SDHI Fungicide

Select List of SDHIs (FRAC Group 7)

Six Chemical Subgroups of SDHI Fungicides Included in Turf

Resistance Classification of Various SDHI Fungicides

Segment Details

Boscalid

Fluopyram

Penthiopyrad

Fluxapyroxad

Isofetamid

COVID-19 Impact on SDHI Fungicides

Global Market Prospects and Outlook

Global SDHI Fungicide Market to Witness Steady Growth in Future

Europe and US Dominate the Global SDHI Market

and US Dominate the Global SDHI Market Cereals & Grains Capture a Noteworthy Market Share

Competition

Recent Market Activity

2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS (Total 22 Featured)

Adama Ltd.

BASF SE

Bayer AG

Corteva, Inc.

FMC Corporation

Isagro S.p.A.

Nufarm Limited

Syngenta Crop Protection AG

UPL Limited

Valent U.S.A. LLC

3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS

Need to Increase Agricultural Production and Yield to Meet the Needs of Expanding Global Population to Bolster Market Growth

Shrinking Arable Land Drives Demand for SDHI Fungicide to Improve Yield

Use of SDHI Fungicide in Horticultural Crops

SDHI Fungicides for Controlling Turf grass Diseases

SDHI Fungicides listed by Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC)

SDHI Active Ingredients and Commercial Products in Turfgrass

Prepacked Mixtures using SDHI Fungicides in Turfgrass

Increasing Use of SDHI Fungicide in Controlling Gray Mold

Developments of Novel SDHI Fungicides Drive Market Growth

Select Novel SDHI Fungicides/New Launches

FMC Obtains US EPA Registartion for Fluindapyr SDHI Fungicide

Pyraziflumid, A novel Fungicide

SDH Inhibitory Activity of Pyraziflumid Derived from Phytopathogenic Fungi, Crop plants and Mammal

Antifungal Properties

Safety Properties

Inhibitory activity

Bayer Introduces New Fungicide Technology for New Zealand Market

AdepidynTM to Boost Wheat Yield

BASF's Revystar Approved by New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries

Ministry for Primary Industries BASF Introduces Imtrex Flowable

Sumitomo Chemical Introduces New Horticultural Fungicide

4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE

III. REGIONAL MARKET ANALYSIS

IV. COMPETITION

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/lh9lv3

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: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople Archbishop Sahak II Mashalian received Flyone Armenia airline Chairman of the Board Aram Ananyan and his delegation who arrived in Istanbul on board the first Yerevan-Istanbul flight operated by Flyone Armenia on February 2.

The patriarchate said in a statement that Sahak II welcomed the restoration of direct flights between Armenia and Turkey and noted that the Armenian community is also saluting this step. He expressed hope that the re-launch of flights will be a positive factor for encouraging the normal course of relations between the two countries. The patriarch expressed conviction that the opportunity for direct connection is invaluable in terms of mutual awareness of the two peoples and countries.

Flyone Armenia Chairman of the Board Aram Ananyan thanked the Patriarch for the warm reception and said that the airline is conducting the flights with utmost responsibility and realizes the importance of the work. He expressed hope that the representatives of the Armenian community of Turkey will assist their efforts and will use the direct flights.

Ananyan is expected to have a meeting with President of the Union of Armenian Foundations Bedros Sirinoglu later on February 3.

A meeting with Armenian media representatives is also planned to take place during a visit to BSEC.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. The government of Armenia approved today the proposal to sign an economic cooperation agreement with Slovakia.

The draft decision says that the agreement allows to develop and deepen the long-term economic relations between the two countries in areas such as industry, tourism, energy, agriculture and foreign economy, small and medium enterprises, transport and infrastructure, environment protection, information and communication technologies, digitization, etc.

The signing of the agreement will contribute to the development of mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, the creation of favorable conditions for the expansion of economic ties, the increase of business activeness and the use of the potential existing in the field of economic partnership, the draft decision says.

The agreement also envisages creating a joint working group and is in accordance with the main directions and goals of the foreign economic policy adopted by Armenia.
YEREVAN, 3 FEBUARY, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 3 February, USD exchange rate down by 0.22 drams to 482.30 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 1.06 drams to 544.28 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate down by 0.02 drams to 6.30 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 0.33 drams to 653.90 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price up by 46.19 drams to 27967.94 drams. Silver price down by 1.72 drams to 353.23 drams. Platinum price down by 100.41 drams to 16080.04 drams.
TORONTO and PERTH, Australia, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Noront Resources Ltd. ("Noront" or the "Company") (TSXV: NOT) and Wyloo Metals Pty Ltd ("Wyloo Metals") announce that, following discussions with, and review by, the applicable regulators, they have agreed to amend certain provisions of the previously-announced arrangement agreement, effective December 22, 2021 (the "Arrangement").



More specifically, Noront, Wyloo Metals and Wyloo Canada Holdings Pty Ltd have entered into an amending agreement effective February 3, 2022 (the "Amending Agreement") to amend the Arrangement as follows:

Election Only Required For Any Shareholders Wishing to Retain Shares: Only shareholders of the Company (" Shareholders ") who wish to retain all or a portion of their common shares of the Company (" Common Shares "), and remain as Shareholders following the completion of the Arrangement, are required to make an election to retain their Common Shares (the " Retention Election "). Such Retention Elections are due no later than the 10 th day following the Interim Announcement (as defined below).





Only shareholders of the Company (" ") who wish to retain all or a portion of their common shares of the Company (" "), and remain as Shareholders following the completion of the Arrangement, are required to make an election to retain their Common Shares (the " "). Such Retention Elections are due no later than the 10 day following the Interim Announcement (as defined below). Deemed Election to Receive Cash Consideration: Any Shareholders who wish to receive the cash consideration of $1.10 per Common Share will not be required to make any election in respect of the Arrangement. For the avoidance of doubt, any Shareholders who do not make a Retention Election will be deemed under the Arrangement to have elected to receive the cash consideration of $1.10 per Common Share.





Any Shareholders who wish to receive the cash consideration of $1.10 per Common Share will not be required to make any election in respect of the Arrangement. For the avoidance of doubt, any Shareholders who do not make a Retention Election will be deemed under the Arrangement to have elected to receive the cash consideration of $1.10 per Common Share. Automatic Squeeze-Out if Less Than 20% of Shareholders Make a Retention Election: If the Arrangement becomes effective and less than 20% (as opposed to the initial threshold of 10%) of the outstanding Common Shares are subject to Retention Elections, then, under the Arrangement, Wyloo Metals will acquire all of the outstanding Common Shares that it does not already own, directly or indirectly, and any Shareholders who made a Retention Election will not be entitled to retain their Common Shares and will instead be entitled to receive the cash consideration of $1.10 per Common Shares.





If the Arrangement becomes effective and less than 20% (as opposed to the initial threshold of 10%) of the outstanding Common Shares are subject to Retention Elections, then, under the Arrangement, Wyloo Metals will acquire of the outstanding Common Shares that it does not already own, directly or indirectly, and any Shareholders who made a Retention Election will not be entitled to retain their Common Shares and will instead be entitled to receive the cash consideration of $1.10 per Common Shares. Automatic 10-Day Extension Following Interim Deadline: In order to provide Shareholders with greater transparency on the status of the Retention Elections, Noront will announce (the "Interim Announcement") the number of Retention Elections received, on an interim basis, as of 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on the business day prior to the date of the special meeting of Shareholders scheduled for March 15, 2022 (the "Meeting"). The Interim Announcement will form part of Noront's announcement of the voting results of the Meeting. Following such Interim Announcement, Shareholders will be provided with an additional 10-day period to make additional Retention Elections or withdraw any previously-delivered Retention Elections.

The above summary is qualified entirely by the full text of the Amending Agreement, a copy of which is available on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com ) under Noront's issuer profile. Additional information regarding the terms of the Arrangement, including the background to the Arrangement, the rationale for the unanimous recommendations of Noront's Board and Special Committee, and how Shareholders can participate in and vote at the Meeting, will be included in the management information circular of Noront for the Meeting (the "Circular"). The Circular is also expected to be filed on or around February 16, 2022 on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com ) under Noront's issuer profile. Shareholders are urged to read these and other relevant materials when they become available.

Noront's Board of Directors, on the basis of the unanimous recommendation of Noront's Special Committee comprised of independent directors, and after receiving advice from its financial and legal advisors, unanimously approved the Arrangement and recommend that Shareholders of Noront vote in favour of the Arrangement.

About Noront Resources

Noront Resources Ltd. is focused on the development of its high-grade Eagle's Nest nickel, copper, platinum and palladium deposit and the world class chromite deposits including Blackbird, Black Thor, and Big Daddy, all of which are located in the James Bay Lowlands of Ontario in an emerging metals camp known as the Ring of Fire. See more at: www.norontresources.com .

About Wyloo Metals

Wyloo Metals is the metals and mining subsidiary of Tattarang, one of Australia's largest private investment groups. Led by a multidisciplinary team of geologists, engineers and financial professionals, Wyloo Metals manages a diverse portfolio of exploration and development projects and cornerstone interests in a number of public and private companies. Wyloo Metals seeks to work closely with all stakeholders to accelerate projects through the development cycle while meeting the highest international environmental, social and governance standards. See more at: www.wyloometals.com .

Wyloo Canada Holdings Pty Ltd ("Wyloo Canada"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Wyloo Metals, currently holds an aggregate of 208,434,427 Common Shares, representing approximately 37.2% of the outstanding Common Shares. Wyloo Canada also holds warrants ("Noront Warrants") to acquire 1,774,664 Common Shares at an exercise price of C$0.35 per Common Share. If the Noront Warrants are also fully exercised, Wyloo Canada would hold 210,209,091 Common Shares, representing approximately 37.4% of the outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis.

For More Information About Noront Resources, Please Contact:

Media Relations

Ian Hamilton

Tel: +1 (905) 399-6591

ihamilton@longviewcomms.ca Investor Relations

Greg Rieveley

Tel: +1 (416) 367-1444

greg.rieveley@norontresources.com Janice Mandel

Tel: +1 (647) 300-3853

janice.mandel@stringcom.com

For More Information About Wyloo Metals, Please Contact:



Media Relations

Andrew Bennett

Tel (M): +61 427 782 503

Tel (P): +61 8 6460 4949

abennett@tattarang.com Aurora Strategy Spokesperson

David Ellis

Tel (M): (416) 704-0937

Tel (P): 416 704 0937

davide@aurorastrategy.com

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information and statements are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events, and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Arrangement, Shareholder approval, the timing and ability of Noront to complete the Arrangement (if at all), the timing and ability of Noront to satisfy the conditions precedent to completing the Arrangement (if at all) as set forth in the Arrangement Agreement, the ability of Shareholders to continue to have an interest in the Company following the closing of the Arrangement, the potential of the Ring of Fire, and projections about the world's transition to a lower carbon future.

Although Noront and Wyloo Metals believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, such information and statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements. Material factors or assumptions that were applied in formulating the forward-looking information contained herein include, without limitation, the expectations and beliefs of Noront and Wyloo Metals, and their respective management and boards of directors, as of the date hereof. Noront and Wyloo Metals caution that the foregoing list of material factors and assumptions is not exhaustive. Many of these assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within their control, and there is no assurance that they will prove correct. Consequently, there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments anticipated by Noront or Wyloo Metals will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences for, or effects on, Noront, the current Shareholders, or its future results and performance of Noront and Wyloo Metals.

Forward-looking information and statements in this news release are based on beliefs and opinions of Noront and Wyloo Metals, as the case may be, at the time the statements are made, and there should be no expectation that these forward-looking statements will be updated or supplemented as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise, and Noront and Wyloo Metals disavow and disclaim any obligation to do so except as required by applicable law. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to be a forecast, projection or estimate of the future financial performance of Noront.

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.
NOB | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

American diplomat Steven Craig Bondy has arrived in Bahrain to take charge as the new US chief of mission to the kingdom.

Ambassador Bondy has safely arrived in Bahrain and is looking forward to assuming his position as Chief of Mission, said the US Embassy spokesperson.

Raised in Livingston, New Jersey, Bondy was a 1980 graduate of Livingston High School. He earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from the University of Delaware.

Bondy is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor. From 2017 to 2020 he was Charge d'affaires and Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. He previously served as the Assistant Chief of Mission in Kabul, Afghanistan and as the foreign policy advisor to the commander of the Joint Special Operations Command. He speaks Arabic, French, Persian, Turkish and Spanish. He is the recipient of numerous US government awards, including a Presidential Rank Award.

On April 15, 2021, President Joe Biden announced his intent to nominate Bondy to be the next United States Ambassador to Bahrain. On April 19, 2021, his nomination was sent to the Senate. His nomination was then pending before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The News of Bahrain had reported on July 6 that, after confirmation, he would be the second Jewish ambassador to Bahrain after J Adam Ereli.

Maggie Nardi is currently the Charge d'Affaires at the Embassy.
Staff Reporter

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

In the latest smishing scandal, scammers are targeting many in Bahrain by sending text messages in the name of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Smishing or SMS phishing is a fraudulent act through which scammers send text messages to trick a person into revealing some sensitive personal information that could be used for all sorts of fraud activities including siphoning money from bank accounts or transferring money to other bank accounts using online funds transfer apps.

The Daily Tribune received many calls from those who received text messages in the name of CID. I never knew it was a scammer, who was behind the SMS. And, in a momentary lapse, I clicked on the link they had sent to me, a woman resident in Bahrain told the newspaper. She has been advised to alert the bank officials with regard to safeguarding her account.

The Daily Tribune has been carrying many reports in the last few weeks about fraudsters targeting the online banking and financial transaction network in Bahrain. The published articles carried the plight of many citizens and expatriates, who together lost thousands of Bahraini dinars to the scammers.
MAPS works to raise awareness of psychedelics and help scientists design, fund and obtain regulatory approval of studies measuring the safety and effectiveness of psychedelics for therapeutic use

Mydecine Innovations Group Inc (OTC:MYCOF, NEO:MYCO) has announced the appointment of Dr Victoria Hale to the companys board of directors.

The company noted that Dr Hale is a pharmaceutical scientist and executive, as well as a global health social entrepreneur. She currently serves as chair of the board of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), a non-profit research and educational organization leading the psychedelics sector in new medicine development.

MAPS works to raise awareness of psychedelics and help scientists design, fund and obtain regulatory approval of studies measuring the safety and effectiveness of psychedelics for therapeutic use.

We are thrilled to welcome Dr Hale to Mydecine's board of directors. Her unique experience in drug development and psychedelic medicine will be a valued addition to the company's expertise, said Mydecine chief science officer Rob Roscow in a statement. Strengthening our board with industry leaders like Victoria is one of the ways Mydecine is preparing for future growth.

With Victorias extensive experience and her commitment to bringing life-changing treatments to those who need them, our board members unanimously agreed that she will be an added asset to the company. Like the team at Mydecine, Victoria has a strong passion for working to improve public health outcomes, added Mydecine CEO Josh Bartch.

As a global health entrepreneur committed to reducing health inequities, the company noted that Dr Hale has raised $230 million in philanthropy for drug development and has successfully guided several new medicines through the requirements of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory agencies.

With previous drug development experience at the FDA and Genentech Inc., Dr Hale earned her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from University of California San Francisco, where she is Adjunct Professor of Bioengineering and Experimental Sciences.

She founded the first US non-profit pharmaceutical company in 2001, OneWorld Health, and served as chairman and CEO until 2008, and Chair Emeritus until 2011. She then founded Medicines360, a non-profit pharmaceutical company dedicated to developing medicines for women and children, including pregnant women.

Dr Hale is a MacArthur Fellow, a member of the US National Academy of Medicine, and serves on several other boards. She has been recognized as an outstanding global social entrepreneur by the Schwab Foundation, the Skoll Foundation and Ashoka.

There is a tremendous unmet need for effective treatments for mental health disorders, said Dr. Hale. Im excited to work with Mydecine as their team explores new therapies to help address the global mental health crisis.

Mydecine Innovations is a biotechnology and digital technology company developing innovative first and second-generation novel therapeutics for the treatment of mental health and addiction using world-class technology and drug development infrastructure.

The company was founded in 2020 to address a significant unmet need and lack of innovation in mental health and therapeutic treatment environments. Its global team is dedicated to efficiently developing new therapeutics to treat PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction and other mental health disorders.

Mydecine is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, USA, with international offices in Leiden, Netherlands.

Contact the author at jon.hopkins@proactiveinvestors.com
Empress Royalty CEO Alexandra Woodyer-Sherron joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share news the company has been very busy with several significant moves. Those moves included securing a 15 million dollars accordion credit facility with Nebari to allow Empress to fund more projects and increase revenue. The company also funded the last 2.5 million tranche for the Sierra Antapite mine in Peru and funded an additional 1 million investment into the Manica project in Mozambique. Woodyer-Sherron telling Proactive more about those moves and also what to expect from the company in 2022.
The company said that it remains committed to innovation and robust product development to ensure it continually meets the needs of the cannabis consumer base

Harvest One Cannabis Inc. (TSX-V:HVT, OTCQB:HRVOF) said it has launched its new LivRelief Infused product stock-keeping unit (SKU), Extra Strength Transdermal CBD Cream.

This new SKU will be available at the Ontario Cannabis Store as part of Harvest Ones brand expansion within the topicals market distribution channels, the company said.

"Harvest One's LivRelief Infused Transdermal CBD Cream continues its momentum as the top-selling SKU in the infused topicals category in Ontario for the 12-month period ended January 2022, as ranked by dollars sold, based on OCS Sales Data, said Gord Davey, CEO of Harvest One.

He added: The company is excited to announce the expanded distribution of LivRelief Infused Extra Strength Transdermal CBD Cream, which has been approved for listing at the OCS and will launch this spring at stores across the province.

Davey noted that Ontario is the province with the largest cannabis consumption in Canada, having over 1,400 retail stores and serving a population of over 14.8M people. This is another key milestone for Harvest One as we continue to grow and add to our portfolio of infused licensed products."

Pipeline development, product innovation and the expansion of distribution channels are key strategic initiatives for Harvest One and its brands LivRelief and Dream Water.

The company said that it remains committed to innovation and robust product development to ensure it continually meets the needs of the cannabis consumer base.

Additionally, the company said that it intends to further develop its licensed cannabis-infused topicals to bolster its leadership position in the market by expanding its offerings in Canada and other jurisdictions in key global markets as cannabis consumption becomes legal.

Contact Ritika at ritika@proactiveinvestors.com


As the Lunar New Year approaches on Feb. 1, the Asian American Student Association at the University of Georgia is preparing for its biggest annual event  Lunars. Planned for Feb. 5, Lunars will celebrate diversity within the Asian population at UGA.
Bandits numbering about 200, suspected to be from notorious bandit Dankaramis camp, midnight Thursday attacked Yangayya in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.

They killed the villages head, Jafaru Rabiu, and four others.

The police command confirmed the attack and the killings.

Halilu kabir, a resident of Jibia, told to PREMIUM TIMES that the bandits stormed the village at midnight and operated for three hours.

They came on motorcycles and started shooting sporadically. Residents were all matched to the village heads residence. It was while they (bandits) were conducting a house to house search that the four people were killed while trying to run away, he said.

A relative of the village head who lives in Katsina metropolis, Ibrahim Safiyanu, said the monarch was killed in his official residence during the attack.

From what we were told, he was shot by the bandits at his residence. We have been informed by the authorities and he will be buried in Katsina later today, Mr Safayanu said.

Bandits disturbing Katsina are from Sokoto  Police

When contacted by PREMIUM TIMES, the police spokesperson in the state, Gambo Isa, confirmed the attack and the killing of the village head.

Immediately we received information on the attack, the divisional police officer in Jibia mobilised his men to confront the bandits who came with sophisticated weapons, including RPGs, but our men succeeded in rescuing the residents of the village who were being taken away into Dumburum forest.

What they do is to abduct and take into their camps in Durumbu forest. But our officers succeeded in rescuing all the captives and their domestic animals, Mr Isa said.

He said those who lost their lives were killed before the police arrived.

Mr Isa added that the bandits terrorising the Jibia  Batsari  Safana  Danmusa axis of the state are from Sokoto State.

We are battling bandits chased out of Sokoto State following air raids on their camps. Most of them have now relocated to the forests in this part of the state, he said.

The attack on Yangayya is coming a few days after bandits killed 12 people and burnt down half of Illela community in Safana and the abduction of over 50 in Ruwan Godiya community of Faskari local government area.
Before Therma Bright can bring its point-of-care test to market in the US, it must win Emergency Use Authorization from the US Food & Drug Administration

When it comes to quick, on-the-spot COVID-19 testing, Therma Bright Inc. (TSX-V:THRM, OTC:TBRIF) CEO Rob Fia says convenience plays a key role.

Most rapid antigen testing kits now available require users to shove and twirl cotton swabs up both nostrils (at least an inch deep) to obtain the best measuring samples. It can be a cringeworthy, unnatural, and sometimes painful experience, especially for school children.

But Therma Bright has elevated self-administered antigen testing to a whole new level to make the process easier and less invasive by using saliva spit instead of nasal swabs to detect the presence of the COVID-19 disease and its Delta and Omicron variants, which are caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

It's much more comfortable versus the nasal anterior antigen test. A lot of people complain about that, said Fia, whose company is poised to roll out its AcuVid COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Saliva Test in the first quarter of 2022 following expected US regulatory approval.

The AcuVid salvia test is not much different than the nasal test, except this time the user simply spits in a collection tube. Then that salvia is mixed with a chemical solution in another tube and the resulting solution is added (4 drops) to the cassette sample port. And exactly like a nasal swab antigen test, the salvia results - positive, negative, or invalid -- show up in 15 to 20 minutes.

We've been able to get out there and determine where we could price where it's competitive in the marketplace next to nasal, Fia said. I think if we can come in close to what they're selling the nasal test for, people will prefer this product over the nasal test.

Anticipating Emergency Use Authorization after clinical study

Before Therma Bright can bring its point-of-care (POC) test to market in the US, it must win Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Under agency guidance, the company is currently running a clinical performance study involving up to 300 participants at three US sites comparing their AcuVid results against their RT PCT test results.

During initial trials in Brazil, the test showed an 85% sensitivity rate and 98% specificity rate, which are requirements for EUA approval. But the agency wanted more data, thus prompting the current clinical performance study.

We're knocking off all of the requirements they're looking for, he said. And then hopefully this time around when we submit everything, it should go a lot smoother, a lot quicker.

However, the Omicron variant and the massive ramp-up of testing have slowed down Therma Brights time plans to finish the study.

With the rapid spread of the Omicron variant, our clinics and their labs have been overwhelmed with a massive wave of COVID-19 RT PCR testing, he said, noting that more-accurate PCR tests take 48 hours to produce an answer.

This has caused delays in receiving these lab-based tests for several days, thus slowing down the process in matching each participant's AcuVid COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Saliva Test with their specific RT PCR test.

Even with the right clinical data, the company also faces another hurdle - production capacity. To win the EUA, Therma Bright must demonstrate it can produce 500,000 tests a week.

In fact, the company stands ready to meet that threshold. It has struck deals with four manufacturers in Canada, Europe, Malaysia, and Mexico and will launch production for the US market once it wins FDA clearance. All told, the total production capacity from its manufacturing partners now translates into a minimum output of 2 million AcuVid tests per month.

Market test to medical facilities and then for home use

The company initially will target medical facilities, pharmacies, nursing homes, and healthcare professionals stationed at schools and government buildings, venues, office buildings, and airports, among other public spaces where lots of people congregate.

After the POC version hits the market, Therma Bright plans to apply for regulatory approval and launch an at-home/on-the-go test that can be purchased online or over the counter at a local grocery or pharmacy.

Fia, who said current data from the study are very promising, is optimistic the company will get the green light from the FDA to launch the AcuVid test. Since July 2021, the company has actively engaged with FDA executives, doctors, and scientists on the best ways to meet regulatory compliance.

We feel pretty good with this next round of submission, he said. We've met everything they've asked for. I think we're in good shape. This time they should know the file and it should move quicker.

Fia noted that theres pent-up demand for saliva testing, including interest from some big potential customers who not only like the product but the companys production capacity as well.

That's what we've been working on, he said. We can now do large-scale manufacturing with our partners. Nothing would make me happier than getting this approved because I don't think there's any shortage of orders at this stage to get this product out into the market.

Also advancing its legacy over-the-counter non-evasive products

While Therma Bright eyes impending commercialization for AcuVid, the company is advancing its four legacy over-the-counter non-evasive products that treat chronic pain and skin conditions without drugs.

The company has developed the Benepod hot & cold contrast therapy device, the InterceptCS cold sore prevention system, and the Venowave circulation-booster device to treat blood clots. Its TherOZap device uses thermal therapy to provide relief for the pain, itch, and inflammation caused by more than 20,000 different insect stings and bites.

Looking ahead, Fia said Therma Bright enters 2022 with a strong balance sheet that will allow it to ramp up production, marketing, and commercialization of the AcuVid test soon after FDA approval.

Right now, we're okay and there are other opportunities for us to raise money in the public markets, he said.

After the FDA decision, the company also intends to win the coveted CE mark to market and sell the test across the EU (the company currently has the CE mark which gives permission to sell in some select European nations) and eventually Health Canada approval. The company also has plans to uplist on the OTCQX as it expands operations and its investor base.

But for the time being, completing the clinical study to secure EUA from the FDA and then bringing the test to market as soon as possible is all that matters.

That's the main focus, but that's really what's been driving the value in the company and the need is there. So, we're all-hands-on-deck to get the AcuVid commercialized, Fia said.

Contact the author: patrick@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow him on Twitter @PatrickMGraham
While the active caseload has reported a marginal decline in India, the country is seeing a surge in deaths due to Covid-19.

A week back on January 26, India reported 2,85,914 fresh cases and 665 deaths in 24 hours. Since then, there has been a constant dip in new infections. However, the number of fatalities has risen steadily.

On February 3, the country saw 1,72,433 infections and 1,008 deaths in a span of 24 hours.

"Deaths lags about 2-3 weeks behind cases. It takes that much time for people to be severely ill, be hospitalised and managed there till they succumb to the disease," Shahid Jameel, Visiting Professor, Ashoka University, told IANS.

India is currently going through its third Covid wave triggered mostly by the highly contagious variant.

Globally, accounts for about 70 per cent infections at this time, with Delta accounting for about 30 per cent.

The variant, touted as majorly causing mild illness, had initially led to a spike in Covid case numbers, but the number of cases have been much less in India.

"The third wave in India is also mostly driven by Omicron. The Omicron figures are much less than daily positive cases because the former is determined only after genomic sequencing, whereas the latter is based on PCR and rapid tests," said Jameel, who is also Senior Research Fellow at Green Templeton College, Oxford University.

"Not all positive cases are sequenced to determine the variant virus," he added.

India is expected to see a peak in the wave in early to mid-February.

"The peak will differ in different states and should eventually start to flatten by the end of March," Dr. Kiran G. Kulirankal, from Division of Infectious Diseases, at Amrita Hospital, Kochi, told IANS.

However, it is too early to predict the end of Covid, he noted.

Kulirankal contended that although initial data shows Omicron variant to be highly transmissible but less severe than Delta, this is not the case while considering high risk groups.

It comprises the elderly, immunocompromised, patients with chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, uncontrolled diabetes, those on immunosuppressive medications and patients with malignancy.

"The weakened immune system fails to prevent the progression of the disease to its severe form leading to increased morbidity and mortality," Kulirankal said.

He advised protecting the high-risk group as well as the general population with vaccinations and following proper Covid protocols such as hand washing, avoiding unnecessary travels, avoiding public gathering, and maintaining physical distancing.

(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.)
ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Communities In Schools (CIS), the national organization working to ensure every student, regardless of race, zip code, or history of marginalization has what they need to succeed in school and beyond, today announced plans to broaden its groundbreaking work across the country.

This expansion is thanks in large part to a transformative $133.5 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. At a time when the global pandemic has particularly hurt students with fewer community resources or adequate supports, this investment will help CIS to carry out its mission to break down the systemic barriers that stand in the way of opportunity and student success.

"Today is an important day for students who are underserved, under-resourced, and in need of transformative support to build a brighter future," said Rey Saldana, President and CEO of Communities In Schools. "This unrestricted gift allows us to combat the inequities in public education and reimagine the way schools operate and show up for all students. Our national goal is to bring our model inside of every one of the 70,000 Title I-eligible schools in the country; currently, we operate in 3,000 schools  so we still have a long way to go, and we will need ongoing support to get there."

The unprecedented gift is the largest unrestricted donation in CIS's history. Over the next five years, CIS seeks to scale its evidence-based model of integrated student supports to reach more schools and serve more students while deepening and sustaining its existing commitments to achieve broader impact across its affiliated Network. The work involves 40 affiliates in 19 states, in California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Washington.

Communities In Schools' school-based staff works inside schools and establishes one-on-one relationships with students in grades K-12 to help them navigate issues and move beyond barriers in the classroom, at home, and in the community. CIS coordinates with schools and local service providers to meet the needs of students and families, as well as providing critical resources, like food, housing, healthcare, counseling, access to remote technology, and more so that students (and educators) can focus on academics.

"With the pandemic continuing to interrupt public education and students' lives, the work of Communities In Schools has never been more important," said Elaine Wynn, Chairman of the CIS Board of Directors. "This generous gift will allow us to provide thousands more students with a significantly improved educational experience and the help they need to graduate from high school and go on to rewarding lives."

CIS believes that transformative relationships are key to unlocking a student's potential. Our staff and community partners coordinate with schools to improve school climate; boost socio-emotional skills among students, teachers, and staff; and reduce barriers to academic success.

For decades, Communities In Schools has demonstrated measurable success in student outcomes. During the 2020-2021 school year, 99 percent of students enrolled in CIS programs remained in school through the end of the school year, with 96 percent of K-11 students being promoted to the next grade and 93 percent of seniors graduating or receiving a GED.

CBS MORNINGS interviewed Rey Saldana this morning to discuss the announcement, click here to watch the full interview.

About Communities in Schools

Communities In Schools (CIS) is a national organization that ensures every student, regardless of race, zip code, or socioeconomic background, has what they need to realize their potential in school and beyond. Working directly inside 3,000 schools across the country, our network of 110 affiliates connects students to caring adults and community resources that help them see, confront, and overcome the barriers that stand between them and a brighter future. Together, we build a powerful change movement made up of peers, students, and alumni committed to building an equitable path to education for future generations. Visit www.communitiesinschools.org to learn more.

SOURCE Communities In Schools
The Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States of America through the decades

The Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States of America through the decades

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

His Majesty King Hamads path since he was Crown Prince of Bahrain and Commander in Chief of the Defense Forces has been distinguished by the deep-rooted alliance and relationship he had with various American Presidents spanning over four decades.

Bahraini author and intellectual Dr Nooh Khalifa examined the relationship between both nations though analyzing official documents dating back 40 years.

The documents researched focused on securing and protecting the region against Iranian threats, supporting regional and global peace in addition to combating international terrorism.

According to Dr Khalifa, His Majesty King Hamad  monarch and ruler of the Kingdom of Bahrain  has created the foundation for a deeper alliance through the various eras of different American Presidents since the time of President Ronald Reagan.

Dr Khalifa announced that he will publish a series of results and recommendations as part of his new scientific study titled Bahrain and America: Developments of the Alliance in Security and Peace between the reigns of Ronald Reagan and Joe Biden.

He added that the documents researched as part of the study have resulted in recommendations that will enhance the existing bilateral ties and strengthen the alliance to face US-GCC fears of traditional and modern Iranian threats  which he considered a crucial common denominator.

Dr Khalifa urged media outlets in Manama and Washington to support his research by allocating a fixed space for articles documenting the results of his development-oriented study which presents extensive political and security details about Bahrain and the United States as the most prominent and oldest regional alliances as well as a distinguished global relationship focused on security and peace.

He also called on American publishing houses to consider his research as one of the possible studies for translation and publishing in the United States.

The study analyzes the mutual positions and initiatives between the King of Bahrain  since he was the Crown Prince and Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Forces - and American Presidents as pillars that developed the alliance regarding regional security as well as global peace, stated Dr Khalifa.

The research includes an in-depth analysis of the dimensions of press coverage for the 2020 presidential elections and Iranian threats during the era of US President Joe Biden as the latest development in the history of relations.

Dr Khalifa has researched 500 historical documents cataloging the development of the alliance between both nations as well as 200 recent press documents highlighting the 2020 presidential election period in addition to the first five months of President Bidens term as a review of his policies for the region.

He added that he relied on a wide range of American, Arab and French references to support the research and strengthen the results of the analytical study which he expanded to an analysis of the portrayal of the United States of America in local Bahraini newspapers during the era of President Biden.

This research is descriptive and it has relied on the survey and comparative approaches to analyze and compare press material published about the United States of America in three out of four Bahraini Arabic-speaking newspapers, added Dr Khalifa.

The study aims to inspire new opportunities to continue developing strategic relations in light of the latest developments in American and Arab security concerns regarding the growing Iranian threats in the region.

The research highlights Bahrain and the United States as two nations that have witnessed a remarkable development in their strategic relations through mutual initiatives at a historical and current level that call for modern security meeting spaces.

Dr Khalifa revealed that 86.8% of the media content in Bahrain was political content while 72.3% of the political content which was studied focused on presidential elections (36.7%) and the concern over the Iranian threat (35.6%).

The developments of Americas policy towards Iranian threats since presidential elections commenced topped the priorities of newspapers that exerted efforts to review the limits of change in policies and their various repercussions on the future of relations, added Dr Khalifa.

Highlighting the efforts of the King of Bahrain since he was the Crown Prince and Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Forces and the American Presidents contributes to enhancing the convergence of visions and perceptions of researchers, thinkers and politicians of Bahrain and the United States of America.

Addressing the dimensions of recent changes in US policies in the region during the era of President Joe Biden highlights solutions and aspirations to control the crises of the Iranian regime in the region.

Dr Khalifa highlighted that the newspapers reviewed for the research instilled high levels of awareness of the local and international American changes which paved the way for a deeper Bahraini understanding and ability to continue finding opportunities for modern strategic convergence.

It is noteworthy to highlight that Dr Nooh Khalifa is an influential researcher in the Kingdom of Bahrain who has been in the intellectual field for 16 years with 25 scientific studies  characterized by their rarity and uniqueness - distinguishing his career as a researcher on the local and international scenes.

Dr Khalifa is a leader and thinker in the security field and he has been interested in studying Bahrains relationship with countries with which it has close military relations, the elements of strengths and weaknesses in Bahrains cities and villages, and the history of womens struggles in the cities and villages of Bahrain.

Dr Khalifas name was associated with various scientific schools such as the Mohammed V University in Rabat, Ain Shams University in Cairo and University of Bahrain.

He was also professor of sociology of development and citizenship at University of Bahrain and the Royal Police Academy.

In his studies, Dr Khalifa combines the fields of change and development studies with media image studies which are influenced by his security and media expertise.

Dr Khalifa has a leading security rank in the media sector, was a former media official at the Ministry of Information Affairs and created a prominent media and intellectual presence in Morocco and Egypt where he was distinguished by obtaining two doctorate degrees  with the highest scientific accreditation  in leading scientific, social and political issues.

He was also recognized in Jordan and Oman for his research and published work.
Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, said it would henceforth provide start-up capital for the institutions student-entrepreneurs to ensure the growth and sustainability of their business ideas.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Lawrence Ezemonye, disclosed this on Wednesday in Okada, while declaring open the Universitys 9th Students Product Exhibition and Trade Fair.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that more than 700 students across various colleges of the university were trained under the entrepreneurship and skill acquisition programme of the institution.

The vice-chancellor said the students had proven that the idea of skill acquisition was noble, as entrepreneurship had become a trend for survival and sustenance.

Unemployment is becoming embarrassing, with the available statistics. And this is not peculiar to Nigeria, but across the globe, particularly due to economic recession and the effect of the global pandemic.

Besides, the employability of our graduates is another serious concern. Many of the students graduating from various tertiary institutions are not employable, he said.

Mr Ezemonye also said some university graduates were underemployed, resulting in some of them engaging in cab driving, with many others getting the job of office secretary and other demeaning jobs.

He said it was in an attempt to stem the tide that the entrepreneurship programme was embedded in the universitys curriculum over 10 years ago.

According to him, the efforts have become the flagship for other tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

The vice-chancellor said the school had introduced an industry-academia platform through which players in the industry come to talk to academics and students at Master classes.

READ ALSO: Igbinedion University gives automatic jobs to Amnesty graduates

He said that a work-study programme for students had commenced in the school, where the best in the entrepreneurship courses would work for certain hours and be paid stipends.

In his address of welcome, David Omoghuare, the Director, Sir David Osunde Centre for Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition, said the occasion was to demonstrate what the students had learnt during the three-month hands-on entrepreneurship training.

According to Mr Omoghuare, more than 6,000 students had so far been trained at the centre within 10 years of its establishment.

NAN reported that the best student-entrepreneurs were presented with cash prizes, ranging from N50,000 to N100,000.

(NAN)
Denis Villeneuve's sci-fi epic "Dune" on Thursday amassed the most nominations for 2022 Awards, closely followed by Jane Campion's Western film "The Power of the Dog".

The nominations were unveiled by British TV personalities AJ Odudu and Tom Allen and "Dune", based on author Frank Herbert's 1965 novel, earned 11 nominations, including best film, adapted screenplay, original score, and all eight technical categories.

Campion's "Power of the Dog" received eight nominations with lead star Benedict Cumberbatch securing a spot in best actor category, while his co-stars, Jesse Plemons and Kodi Smit-Mcphee, are nominated for the best supporting actor.

"Belfast", a period drama directed by Kenneth Branagh, was the third-most-nominated title overall with six, followed by Paul Thomas Anderson's "Licorice Pizza", James Bond movie "No Time To Die" and Steven Spielberg-directed musical "West Side Story", with each securing five nods.

Starting with "Dune" doing exceedingly well, there were surprises aplenty during the nominations as films like Maggie Gyllenhaal's "The Lost Daughter", Nicole Kidman-starrer "Being The Ricardos", Andrew Garfield's musical "Tick Tick Boom!" and Ethan Coen's "Macbeth" were snubbed in major categories.

In the best film race, "Dune" is joined by Adam McKay's "Don't Look Up, "Belfast", Licorice Pizza and The Power of the Dog.

Lady Gaga ("House Of Gucci") leads the best actress category, where



Alana Haim ("Licorice Pizza"), Emilia Jones ("Coda"), Renate Reinsve ("The Worst Person In The World"), Joanna Scanlan ("After Love") and Tessa Thompson ("Passing") are also set to vie for the trophy.

Olivia Colman, the lead star of "The Lost Daughter", and Kidman failed to secure a spot in the category.

In the best actor category, Cumberbatch will go up against Mahershala Ali (Swan Song), Leonardo DiCaprio (Don't Look Up), Stephen Graham (Boiling Point), Will Smith (King Richard) and Adeel Akhtar (Ali & Ava).

Garfield and Washington, who received unanimous praise for their performances in Lin Manuel Miranda's "Tick Tick... Boom!" and "Macbeth, respectively, were overlooked in the category.

There were many surprises in the best director category as Branagh and Villeneuve failed to make the cut despite multiple nominations for their films, whereas Ryusuke Hamaguchi found a spot for his Japanese feature film "Drive My Car".

The Japanese filmmaker is nominated alongside Campion, Anderson, Aleem Khan (After Love), Audrey Diwan (Happening) and Julia Ducournau ("Titane).

However, both Branagh and Villeneuve are nominated in the screenplay categories.

Branagh found a spot in best original screenplay segment that also includes Aaron Sorkin of "Being The Ricardos", Adam Mckay ("Don't Look Up"), Zach Baylin ("King Richard") and Anderson ("Licorice Pizza").

Villeneuve will vie for the best adapted screenplay trophy along with Hamaguchi, Gyllenhaal, Campion and Sian Heder of "Coda".

Caitriona Balfe of Belfast and Jessie Buckley of The Lost Daughter are the notable names in the best supporting actress category, which also includes Ariana Debose (West Side Story), Ann Dowd (Mass), Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard) and Ruth Negga (Passing).

In the best supporting actor category, Plemons and Smit-McPhee will go up against Mike Faist (West Side Story), Ciaran Hinds (Belfast), Troy Kotsur (Coda) and Woody Norman (C'mon C'mon).

Hamaguchi's "Drive My Car" leads the best film not in the english language category and is nominated alongside Paolo Sorrentino's The Hand of God, Pedro Almodovar's "Parallel Mothers, Celine Sciamma's French movie Petite Maman and Danish director Joachim Trier's The Worst Person in the World.

According to the British Academy, the nominations include 48 films, just slightly down from the 50 titles in 2021.

In the performance categories, 19 of 24 nominees are receiving their first film nomination, whereas in the directing category, there's an equal split between female and male directors.

Overall, there's an increase in the number of female directors nominated in total across all categories, up to 12 versus the eight in 2021.

Rebel Wilson will be hosting the 2022 ceremony, which will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on March 13.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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NAIROBI, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Kenya is developing a plan that will help accelerate socioeconomic transformation as well as build resilience amid the COVID-19 disruptions, Ukur Yatani, the cabinet secretary for National Treasury and Planning, said on Wednesday at a briefing in Nairobi.

Yatani said the plan dubbed the Fourth Medium Term Plan (MTP) will cover the period 2023-2027 and will focus on implementing strategic interventions aimed at driving Kenya's economy toward a sustainable growth path.

"The fourth MTP will seek to continue implementing the Agenda 2030 on Sustainable Development Goals and aspirations of the Africa Agenda 2063," said Yatani.

"The plan will also incorporate strategic programs and projects aimed at addressing climate change, gender equality and plight of the vulnerable groups in the society," he added.

Yatani said the government will endeavor to deepen private sector participation in the implementation of programs and projects within the public private partnership framework.

He noted that Kenya is emerging from a challenging period due to the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to loss of lives and livelihood including massive loss of jobs due to the subdued economic activities that saw the country's gross domestic product contracting by 0.3 percent in 2020.

"However, the year 2021 looks promising from the strong recovery indicators, as shown by the second and third quarter economic performance where the country recorded a rebound growth of 11.9 and 9.9 percent respectively," said Yatani. 
After nearly five months of anticipation, the new bar space attached to home.made, SideCar, will open Thursday on Baxter Street. SideCars enigmatic Instagram account doesnt reveal much about what home.made owner Mimi Maumus has in store for Athens, but the reality of SideCar is that its much more than a bar.
An Abeokuta Magistrates Court on Thursday remanded four teenagers in prison for the alleged murder of 20-year-old Sofiat Okeowo.

The police charged Balogun Mustakeem, 20, Majekodunmi Soliudeen, 18, Abdulgafa Lukman, 19, and Waris Oladeinde, 18, on a two- count charge of conspiracy and murder.

I. O Abudu, the magistrate, who did not take the plea of the accused, ordered that they be remanded in prison.

Ms Abudu ordered that they should be remanded in Oba correctional service, pending legal advice from Ogun State Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).

She, however, adjourned the case until March 14 for mention.

The prosecutor, Lawrence Balogun, told the court that the accused committed the offence on January 28 at Kugba area in Abeokuta.

Mr Balogun alleged that the accused conspired among themselves and murdered Ms Okeowo who was a girlfriend to one of the accused, Mr Soliudeen.

He said the accused killed her by cutting off her head with a cutlass.

According to the prosecutor, the accused murdered Ms Okeowo with the plan to use her for a money ritual.

The prosecutor said the offence contravened sections 324, 316 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun 2006. (NAN)
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Council of Representatives Speaker Fawzia bint Abdulla Zainal condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist Houthi militias attacks on civilian facilities in the UAE. She described them as crimes that violate international conventions and target innocent civilians, putting the security of the region and international interests at risk.

Speaker Zainal also reiterated Bahrains firm stance in support of the UAE, and backing of all the measures it deems necessary to defend its territories, and safeguard the security of its citizens and residents. She praised the quartet summit held recently in Abu Dhabi, including Bahraini, UAE and Egyptian leaders, noting that it confirms the importance of coordination in order to come up with unified stances vis-a-vis Arab issues, peace in the region and combating all forms of terrorism and extremism.

Bahrains top lawmaker stressed the importance of parliamentary stances in supporting regional security and stability as well as in calling for the international community to bear its responsibility in achieving stability and security for societies and combating terrorism, violence and extremism.

Parliamentary cooperation

She affirmed that the Bahraini-UAE parliamentary cooperation is growing steadily, in light of the keenness of the legislative branches in the two countries to further bolster bilateral cooperation in all fields.

The Speaker and members of the Bahraini delegation expressed thanks and appreciation to the Speaker of the UAEs FNC, Saqr Ghobash, and members for their warm welcome and hospitality, in addition to their unwavering efforts to strengthen relations between the two countries in the parliamentary field.

Speaker Ghobash welcomed Speaker Zainal and her accopanying delegation, stressing that the current phase proves the depth of the brotherly relations between the two countries, their common destiny and similar interests at all levels.

He affirmed the UAEs FNCs keenness to strengthen cooperation with Bahrains Representatives Council in various fields, including joint cooperation at regional and international parliamentary gatherings.

Speaker Ghobash highlighted the UAEs FNCs desire to fully activate the memoranda of understanding and cooperation signed with Bahrains Council of Representatives, as well as to inaugurate a new phase in which the two sides launch joint programmes and initiatives.
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, on Wednesday said he is urging a "fair and thoughtful" confirmation process to vet President Joe Biden's eventual nominee to succeed retiring U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer.

Grassley met Tuesday with Biden and U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin, an Illinois Democrat, to discuss the forthcoming Supreme Court vacancy as the White House ramps up outreach to Republicans in hopes of avoiding a heated confirmation battle.

Grassley serves as the ranking Republican member and former chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

"From my point of view, it was a very successful meeting," Grassley said Wednesday during a weekly conference call with Iowa reporters.

His remarks echoed those of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, who this week pledged to treat Bidens nominee with respect during a "thoughtful" process.

With the outcome of the confirmation process unlikely to change the 6-3 conservative majority and ideological composition of the court, and Republicans believing there are better issues on which to focus heading into the November midterm elections, both Grassley and McConnell indicated Republicans will keep the upcoming confirmation battle civil and focused on the qualifications of the nominee, who is expected to be the first Black woman selected for the Supreme Court.

Durbin this week expressed confidence Republicans will not seek to boycott a hearing and slow the confirmation process in the evenly divided U.S. Senate, NBC News reported.

Grassley refused to hold a hearing on Merrick Garlands 2016 nomination to the Supreme Court. Former President Barack Obama nominated Garland, now serving as U.S. Attorney General, after the death of Justice Antonin Scalia. But Republicans who controlled the Senate refused to consider the nomination during an election year.

Asked if he is open to supporting Bidens eventual nominee and his pledge to nominate the first-ever Black woman to the court, Grassley said: "We need the nominee first."

"I'm going to be focused on not man or woman, (or) race," Grassley said. "I'm going to be focused on the qualification, in particular ... that we want somebody that's going to interpret the law and not make law."

Grassley added it's Congress' "responsibility to make law, and we shouldn't be having judges or justices usurp the constitutional power of Congress."

Biden on Tuesday said he hope to announce a nominee by the end of the month, and that once announced he is hoping for a 40-day confirmation process, a similar timeline to other nominees.

"The Constitution says 'advise and consent' -- 'advice and consent.' And Im serious when I say it: that I want the advice of the Senate as well as the consent, if we can arrive on who the nominee should be, Biden told reporters following Tuesday's meeting, according to pool reports and remarks provided by the White House.

Some Republicans and conservative media outlets have decried Biden's promise to nominate a Black woman as the next justice. Both President Donald Trump and President Ronald Reagan pledged to nominate women to the nation's highest court during their terms.

Fellow Republican Senate Judiciary Committee member Lindsey Graham of South Carolina in an interview on CBS' "Face the Nation" on Sunday defended Bidens pledge, saying it was no different than Reagans promise to nominate the nations first female justice, Sandra Day OConnor, in 1981.

"Put me in the camp of making sure the court and other institutions look like America," Graham said. "You know, we make a real effort as Republicans to recruit women and people of color to make the party look more like America."

nts mean something, including the Ninth Amendment."
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is considering approaching the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) / Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) for banning content promoting unauthorised and derivatives trading platforms on digital media.
As previously announced, Nextech also has been selected by Google as an Early Access Partner with Google's 3D AR Search Program

Nextech AR Solutions Corp. (CSE:NTAR, OTCQB:NEXCF, NEO:NTAR) has announced a multi-year expansion of its 3D/AR e-commerce contract with Kmart Australia.

As part of the Wesfarmers group, Kmart Australia is one of Australia's largest listed companies whose businesses include Bunnings, Kmart Group, Officeworks, and others.

Nextech said Kmart Australia has signed an annual contract for not only 500 homeware SKUs but also Nextechs ARitize Decorator platform (formerly known as 3D Rooms).

As part of this annual contract, Nextech will be indexing these 500 homeware assets with Googles 3D AR search, as it is experiencing a wave of new, global interest and demand for 3D models and AR visualizations for e-commerce.

This 1 year 500 homewares SKU contract with Kmart Australia serves as a clear validation of the benefits of our 3D modeling and AR for e-commerce solutions and we are excited to continue working and growing with Kmart Australia, who are proving to be innovators in their space, said Nextech CEO Evan Gappelberg in a statement.

We are continuing to create tremendous value through the e-commerce ecosystem with not just 3D models and AR visualizations but also with our relationships with big tech companies like Google and others.

As previously announced, Nextech has been selected by Google as an Early Access Partner with Google's 3D AR Search Program. Google allows Nextech to grant Kmart Australia exclusive early access to the 3D search program which will cause Kmart Australias 3D models to appear higher in organic Google search results -- possibly even on the first page, maximizing reach and awareness for the retailer.

Nextech said the contract, which also includes its ARitize Decorator platform, is a solution that Kmart Australia sees as an exceptional component to help their customers journey and decision-making process, and an innovative opportunity to showcase groundbreaking technology on Kmart Australia's website while increasing sales and decreasing returns.

ARitize Decorator enables customers to virtually preview home furnishing and decor in a desired location using just a simple 2D photo of a room. The solution uses Nextech's artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze a room layout automatically and then parses out room surfaces, reconstructs the scene, and allows multiple 3D AR objects to be seamlessly placed inside a 2D photo as if they were part of the room.

Contact the author: patrick@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow him on Twitter @PatrickMGraham
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) said it has begun investigation into Wednesdays explosion which occurred at an evacuation vessel at Ukpokiti field (OML 108) in Delta State.

The NUPRCs spokesperson, Paul Osu, made this known in a statement issued on Thursday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FSPO) facility which belongs to Shebah Exploration and Production Company Ltd exploded in the early hours of Wednesday.

Mr Osu said the commission had commenced investigations into the incident in conjunction with relevant stakeholders and would provide updates appropriately.

The commission said the investigation is in line with its statutory regulatory oversight of upstream petroleum operations in the Nigerian oil and gas industry.

There has been no report of any casualties or fatalities.

The commission will take necessary measures to ensure that all safety and environmental measures in line with global best practices to safeguard lives and the environment are put in place, he said.

In an earlier statement, Shebah Exploration and Production Company Ltd said 10 crew men were on board the vessel prior to the incident.

The company thanked the Clean Nigeria Associates, the Chevron team operating in the nearby Escravos facility and other community stakeholders for their assistance during the incident.

We also appreciate the fishermen who have been of tremendous assistance since the incident happened, it said.

(NAN)
The Anambra Fire Service said it recorded a total of 114 fire outbreaks which resulted in 15 deaths and five injuries across the state in 2021.

Martin Agbili, the chief fire officer of the service, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka on Thursday.

Mr Agbili said the service recorded 40 fire outbreaks between January and February this year, with 38 of those incidents in the previous month.

He said the estimated value of property destroyed in the fire disasters was not yet available as that was still being calculated.

The fire chief said the use of domestic fuel (cooking gas and adulterated kerosene) and bush burning were responsible for most of the residential building fire incidents.

He advised people to be cautious in using gas cookers and stoves, and also warned against bush burning, especially during the dry season.

Those who use gas should ensure the cylinder is outside, they should check for leaks regularly and make a rule that children should not go near such, while camp gas should be used in a ventilated place.

For those using stove, they should test for the purity of the kerosene, and the best way to do it is take a little quantity and try to inflame it, if it lights with force, it is possible that it has been adulterated with petrol, which is far cheaper than kerosene, he said.

Mr Agbili, however, said the service was battling with emergency response challenges as motorists often refused to give way to fire trucks in heavy traffic and congested areas like Onitsha.

According to him, fire trucks blaring sirens were not on pleasure rides, but on a mission to save lives and property, and those who blocked their way could become victims one day.

(NAN)
Russia said Thursday it is shutting down the operations of German broadcaster Deutsche Welle in Moscow and stripping its staff of their accreditation in a retaliatory move after Berlin banned Russian broadcaster RT DE.

Moscow said it would stop the German channel being broadcast in Russia and start proceedings that would see it declared a "foreign agent," a designation that carries a negative Soviet-era connotation.

The Russian foreign ministry said it also would bar entry to Russia for German officials involved in the move to ban RT DE.

State-funded Deutsche Welle said it formally protested the move and would take legal action. "We are being made a pawn here in a way that media only have to experience in autocracies," Deutsche Welle Director Peter Limbourg said in a statement.

Hendrik Wuest, premier of North Rhine-Westfalia state where Deutsche Welle is headquartered, called Russia's action "a massive and deliberate attack on the freedom of press, which we strongly condemn."

The row comes amid wider tensions with the West over Ukraine that are an early test of political relations between Berlin and Moscow after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz took office in December.

The Kremlin said earlier on Thursday that a trip by Scholz to Moscow was on the agenda, but that a date was not yet confirmed.

German journalist association DJV called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to immediately lift the ban on Deutsche Welle.

"There is no justification for this drastic censorship measure," said DJV chair Frank Ueberall in a statement, calling the move "cheap tit for tat."

Ueberall also called on the German government to protest the Russian move clearly and in a way that cannot be ignored.

Germany's MABB media watchdog and Commission for Licensing and Supervision (ZAK) of media institutions said this week that RT DE could not broadcast in Germany using a Serbian license, a decision that angered Russia.

In a statement on its website detailing its retaliatory measures, Russia's foreign ministry described the German move as "unfriendly."

The announcement comes amid a crackdown on media outlets that Russia considers "foreign agents." It uses the term to designate foreign-funded organizations it says are engaged in political activity.
CEDAR FALLS  Cedar Falls Community Schools cash reserves continued growing during 2020-21, with a nearly 50% increase in funds.

A financial audit accepted last week by the Board of Education shows the districts unassigned general fund balance added $1.87 million for the fiscal year ending June 30, bringing it to $5.99 million.

That is 46% more than the fund showed at the end of the previous year. It grew that year, too, but only by $155,500. Its total had dropped by almost $800,000 two years ago.

The unassigned fund balance represents money available for emergencies and is often considered a measure of financial stability.

The audit also found Cedar Falls Schools long-term debt obligations increased, rising from $83.86 million to $117.35 million. Of that amount, $4.62 million is due by the end of the current fiscal year.

Debt for general obligation bonds and compensated absences decreased. But the district took on more debt through a revenue bond issue as well as net pension and other public employee benefits.

Chiefly, that was due to $32.9 million in sales tax revenue bonds issued in May to help fund construction of the new high school. The districts net pension liability also grew by $5.83 million to $34.31 million. Payments made during the year on general obligation and revenue bonds as well as for compensated absences offset those new costs by $5.95 million.

The district is required by the state to show a liability for pension benefits, paid out when staff members retire. However, board member Jeff Hassman pointed out that it is highly unlikely the state-operated Iowa Public Employees Retirement System will fail.

School districts are required to have an audit conducted by a third party each year to ensure they fairly state their financial position. Auditors also point out potential violations of Iowa law or significant deficiencies in accounting procedures. Carney, Alexander, Marold & Co. of Waterloo completed the districts audit.

We had an unmodified opinion that was issued on the financial statements, said Janel Ruzicka, who worked on the audit for the certified public accounting firm. That means Cedar Falls Schools records are free of any misrepresentation and have been maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principals.

Our audit did not disclose any significant deficiencies in internal controls or non-compliance that was material to your financial statements, said Ruzicka. No problems were found, either, with budget expenditures or federal funding streams like the child nutrition program and Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief related to the pandemic recovery.
DES MOINES  With three different state income tax proposals in play, including her own, Gov. Kim Reynolds declined an opportunity Wednesday to put her thumb on the scales.

Reynolds said that everything is on the table when it comes to the three tax plans that will ultimately have to become one. She touted her tax plan and fielded questions from reporters during an event at LBS, a publishing and packaging company in Des Moines.

Im optimistic we are going to get something done (on tax policy) this year, Reynolds said. I think well end up in a good place.

With a $1.2 billion state budget surplus, plus another $800 million in the state fund for tax relief, and a full budget reserve and emergency accounts, Republicans  who with their majorities pull all the state lawmaking levers  have pledged to cut state taxes.

Reynolds, Senate Republicans and House Republicans each have offered proposals that are similar in many ways, but decidedly different in others. All seek to reduce the state tax on individual workers income. Some also reduce the state tax on business income, and one creates a tax shift that triggers funding for the long-empty fund for conservation and water quality programs.

There has never been a better time for bold yet practical reform, Reynolds said Wednesday. We have a great story to tell (about Iowa). So if I can get the (tax) rates competitive, watch out.

When asked by reporters, Reynolds declined to endorse any of the three proposals or comment on the elements that differ among them. She said she will have those conversations as she and legislative leaders work to agree on one tax plan.

Thats not a discussion Im going to have with media, she said. Were going to look at all three bills and see where we end up.

The House and Senate proposals each received their first legislative hearings Tuesday. Both are scheduled for their second hearings Thursday. If both are approved, they would become eligible for debate by the full Senate and House.

Reynolds proposal is not moving through the legislative process, but it is very similar to the House bill.

Supporters of the proposals say lowering Iowans income taxes to one rate is fair for all workers, that the business tax rate needs to be lowered to make Iowa more competitive with other states and that funding the conservation and water quality fund will help provide amenities that people look for in choosing a place to live.

Critics of the proposals say flat taxes like those proposed force lower-income workers to shoulder a larger burden than higher-income workers in the funding of government services, and that state revenue would be better dedicated to other services rather than a tax break for businesses.
A few weeks before the Bills-Chiefs game, I listened to Eddie Vedder explain on a podcast how he yearned to get back on tour and play at stadiums full of fans. To paraphrase Vedder, a large venue concert is one of a few places in the world where you can get thousands of people together to agree on one thing. In Vedders case, they agree on Pearl Jams music.

After the infamous 13 second game, I sat alone in my living room as my wife headed upstairs to check on our three young boys in bed and try to sleep off her frustration. For the first few minutes, I was filled with self-pity and irrational thoughts. Particularly, I conflated the Bills history of losses with my many failures. I wondered if I would ever get a break.

I eventually came out of my stupor and thought of the Bills fans that meant most to me. First, I thought of my father, who worked for 35 years in the sanitation department for the City of Buffalo and a second job as a realtor, while raising me as a single parent. The sacrifices he made for me had an indelible impact on my personal and professional career path. I thought of my mother who died far too young at 61, after a two-year fight with ovarian cancer. I thought of my sister in Miami, who was at a Bills Backer bar drowning her sorrows with friends. I thought of my wife and kids and how much happiness they bring to my life. Then I thought of Vedder and his wise words. We may all not agree on much these days, but I know a place next year in September where over 70,000 humans will be back together  in agreement. Go Bills.
Dallas, TX, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- North American Cannabis Holdings, Inc. (OTC Pink: USMJ) today announced the company is ready at the starting line to kickoff a major expansion of its cannabis ecommerce business.

In September of last year, ACI Conglomerated, the controlling shareholder of USMJ and the controlling shareholder of Puration, Inc. (OTC Pink: PURA) and Priority Aviation, Inc. (OTC Pink: PJET), announced its plans to refocus and diversify its overall strategy with the three companies.

PJET diversified outside the cannabis industry entering the student life market.

PURA refocused its business on industrial hemp.

USMJ, after exiting the cannabis retail restaurant market, is not focused on expanding its cannabis ecommerce footprint. February will be the kickoff of its expansion campaign.

Visit the companys ecommerce site now and bookmark the site to watch for coming announcements and updates:

www.USMJ.com

Contact:

USMJ

Steven Rash

info@aciconglomerated.com

+1 (800) 861-1350

Disclaimer/Safe Harbor: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Litigation Reform Act. The statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events that involve risks and uncertainties. Among others, these risks include the expectation that Alkame will achieve significant sales, the failure to meet schedule or performance requirements of the Company's contracts, the Company's liquidity position, the Company's ability to obtain new contracts, the emergence of competitors with greater financial resources and the impact of competitive pricing. In the light of these uncertainties, the forward-looking events referred to in this release might not occur. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- After having been absent for two months from the national top five telehealth diagnoses, COVID-19 returned to the list in November 2021, ranking in fifth place at 1.4 percent of telehealth claim lines,1 according to FAIR Health's Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker. The data represent the privately insured population, including Medicare Advantage and excluding Medicare Fee-for-Service and Medicaid.

In the Northeast, COVID-19 also returned to the top five telehealth diagnoses at fifth place in November; it had not been listed in that region since January 2021. In the Midwest, where it had not been listed since September, COVID-19 returned to the top five telehealth diagnoses at third place in November. November was the month when the highly transmissible Omicron variant of COVID-19 was first detected in the United States.

Nationally, substance use disorders fell out of the top five telehealth diagnoses in November to make way for COVID-19. In the Northeast and Midwest, joint/soft tissue diseases and issues dropped out of the top five. Encounter for examination dropped from third place to fifth place in the top five telehealth diagnoses in the South. There were no changes in the rankings of top five telehealth diagnoses in the West.

Increase in Telehealth Utilization

Telehealth utilization increased 7.3 percent nationally in November 2021, rising from 4.1 percent of all medical claim lines in October to 4.4 percent in November. This increase followed a decline of 6.8 percent in October. In November, telehealth utilization also increased in every census region (Midwest, Northeast, South and West), with the greatest increase (8.3 percent) in the Northeast.

Changes in Procedure Code Rankings

In the rankings of the top five telehealth procedure codes nationally and in the Midwest, CPT2 99213, 20-29-minute established patient outpatient visit, and CPT 99214, 30-39-minute established patient outpatient visit, switched places in November 2021. Both nationally and in the Midwest, CPT 99214 had been in second place and CPT 99213 in third place in October; in November, CPT 99213 moved to second place and CPT 99214 to third place.

About the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker

Launched in May 2020 as a free service, the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker uses FAIR Health data to track how telehealth is evolving from month to month. An interactive map of the four US census regions allows the user to view an infographic on telehealth in a specific month in the nation as a whole or in individual regions. Each infographic shows month-to-month changes in volume of telehealth claim lines, top five telehealth procedure codes and top five telehealth diagnoses (or diagnostic categories), along with that month's top five granular diagnoses within the most common diagnostic category.

FAIR Health President Robin Gelburd stated: "As the COVID-19 pandemic and telehealth utilization continue to evolve, FAIR Health's Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker serves as a window into that evolution. This is one of the many ways we pursue our healthcare transparency mission."

For the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker, click here.

Follow us on Twitter @FAIRHealth

About FAIR Health

FAIR Health is a national, independent nonprofit organization that qualifies as a public charity under section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code. It is dedicated to bringing transparency to healthcare costs and health insurance information through data products, consumer resources and health systems research support. FAIR Health possesses the nation's largest collection of private healthcare claims data, which includes over 35 billion claim records and is growing at a rate of over 2 billion claim records a year. FAIR Health licenses its privately billed data and data productsincluding benchmark modules, data visualizations, custom analytics and market indicesto commercial insurers and self-insurers, employers, providers, hospitals and healthcare systems, government agencies, researchers and others. Certified by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as a national Qualified Entity, FAIR Health also receives data representing the experience of all individuals enrolled in traditional Medicare Parts A, B and D; FAIR Health includes among the private claims data in its database, data on Medicare Advantage enrollees. FAIR Health can produce insightful analytic reports and data products based on combined Medicare and commercial claims data for government, providers, payors and other authorized users. FAIR Health's systems for processing and storing protected health information have earned HITRUST CSF certification and achieved AICPA SOC 2 compliance by meeting the rigorous data security requirements of these standards. As a testament to the reliability and objectivity of FAIR Health data, the data have been incorporated in statutes and regulations around the country and designated as the official, neutral data source for a variety of state health programs, including workers' compensation and personal injury protection (PIP) programs. FAIR Health data serve as an official reference point in support of certain state balance billing laws that protect consumers against bills for surprise out-of-network and emergency services. FAIR Health also uses its database to power a free consumer website available in English and Spanish, which enables consumers to estimate and plan for their healthcare expenditures and offers a rich educational platform on health insurance. An English/Spanish mobile app offers the same educational platform in a concise format and links to the cost estimation tools. The website has been honored by the White House Summit on Smart Disclosure, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), URAC, the eHealthcare Leadership Awards, appPicker, Employee Benefit News and Kiplinger's Personal Finance. FAIR Health also is named a top resource for patients in Dr. Marty Makary's book The Price We Pay: What Broke American Health Careand How to Fix It and Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal's book An American Sickness: How Healthcare Became Big Business and How You Can Take It Back. For more information on FAIR Health, visit fairhealth.org.

1 A claim line is an individual service or procedure listed on an insurance claim. 2 CPT  2021 American Medical Association (AMA). All rights reserved.

Contact:

Rachel Kent

Senior Director of Marketing

FAIR Health

646-396-0795

[email protected]

SOURCE FAIR Health
ECOWAS Chairman, President Nana Akufo-Addo has called for a strong commitment from West African leaders to end the resurgence of coup d'etats to avert the destabilisation of the region.

Excellencies, the resurgence of coup d'etats in the region is a matter of grave concern. This evolution challenges the democratic way of life we have chosen and we need to stand firm to protect democracy and freedom in the region.

Let's address this dangerous trend collectively and decisively before it devastates the whole region, President Akufo-Addo said on Thursday at the opening of the Bloc's extraordinary summit in Accra to deliberate on the political situation in Burkina Faso.

The meeting will also examine the current situation in Guinea and Mali and the contagious effect on the Region.

The Regional Bloc, which is grappling with terrorist attacks, insurgency and the COVID-19 pandemic, has experienced three military take-overs in the past 19 months, the latest being January 24, 2022, coup in Burkina Faso where army officers demanding the sacking of military chiefs and more resources to fight Jihadist, deposed 64-year-old President Roch Marc Christian Kabore.

ECOWAS condemned the coup sternly, and had asked the junta to return the country to constitutional rule.

But the Burkinabe military authorities indicated that constitutional order would only be restored when the conditions are right.

Leaders of the Bloc last Friday held a virtual meeting on the situation in Burkina Faso and upheld the commitment to the zero tolerance for unconstitutional toppling of governments.

ECOWAS, after virtual meeting, dispatched two missions, one of the ECOWAS Chiefs of Defence Staff, and the other a Joint Ministerial Team to assess the security and political situations in Burkina Faso.

The two missions would present their report to the Authority of Heads of States and Government to enable the body take a firm decision on the country.

GNA
Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb, along with Bangladesh Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi, laid the foundation stone for the third Indo-Bangla border haat at Kamalpur under Dhalai district on Thursday. The border haat will be known as Kamalpur-Kumraghat border haat. Already, there are two operational border Haats located at Tripura Kamalasagar and Srinagar under Sepahijala and South Tripura district. Apart from that, announcements of three new projects with similar trade facilities for both countries would be set up in North Tripura, South Tripura and Khowai district of Tripura. Addressing the function organised at Kamalpur, Bangladesh Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi recalled how India stood solid beside Bangladesh in its critical times and lauded the role that Tripura people played during the Liberation War. "People of Tripura gave shelter to 14 to 15 lakh Bangladeshi freedom fighters. And, 80 per cent of the refugees entered Indian territory through Agartala. So, we are always grateful to the people of Tripura," he said. "Your Chief Minister wants to make Tripura a progressive state. He has informed me of several international routes that could be used for enhancing trade activities and I am hopeful that Indo-Bangla trade through Tripura will reach new heights in the days to come," he added. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb said that today, trade relations between India and Bangladesh are reaching new heights. Export from Tripura increased exponentially. And, this has become possible because of the united efforts of PM Modi and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina." "Not only that, for the first time, a consignment of 50 sacks of cement arrived at Sonamura from Bangladesh because of the blessings of Sheikh Hasina. Both the Prime Ministers are driving their countries towards new feats of development and growth," he said. Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Vikram Duraiswamy spoke about the new trade projects coming up in Tripura "Today foundation stone for the third border haat has been laid at Kamalpur. Three more such markets are going to be set up at Belonia under South Tripura district, North Tripura district and Khowai. These projects have played an anchor role in the expansion of trade between two countries, improvement in the livelihood of the border population, creation of employment opportunities etc.", he said. "There are altogether two integrated check-posts, 6 land custom stations and two border haats. On-demand basis new priority-items are being incorporated in the product list as priority items and hopefully, this region shall fetch more economic benefits in the days to come," he added. The new border haat would be ready at a cost of over Rs 5 crore in an area of 75 square kilometres. Hundred vendors from each side would be allowed to operate once it goes operational. (ANI)
CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- JLL ( NYSE: JLL) announced the appointment of Christian Whitaker to Global Head of Sustainable Operations, where he will lead the Energy and Sustainability Services (ESS) organization, managing JLL's portfolio-wide sustainability programs for the company's investor and corporate clients. The new role reflects the company's ongoing strategy to provide a unified sustainability offering worldwide that helps clients rapidly decarbonize and reach their environmental goals.

"Christian's experience and strong track record will provide the leadership and expertise to help spearhead our Sustainable Operations capability at JLL, globally," said Guy Grainger, Global Head of Sustainability Services and ESG for JLL. "Christian and his team will work with clients to optimize their energy use and minimize their carbon footprint through innovative technology, capital strategies and operational excellence."

As the business and governments around the globe set ambitious environmental goals, JLL is building differentiated sustainability services with end-to-end solutions at scale to help the net-zero transition.

"I am beyond thrilled to join the JLL sustainability leadership team," shared Whitaker. "When I saw the full scope of JLL's vision and commitment to bring end-to-end lifecycle sustainable practices to their customers, I knew that I wanted to be a part of it."

Whitaker is based in the Washington DC-Baltimore area and has spent over 20 years in energy and sustainability leadership roles. For the last 10 years, he served in various leadership roles at Siemens' Building Technologies and Smart Infrastructure operating companies, most recently as the Global Head of Energy Services. In this role, Whitaker was responsible for product portfolio, business development and execution of Siemens' energy efficiency and sustainability businesses globally.

About JLL

JLL ( NYSE: JLL) is a leading professional services firm that specializes in real estate and investment management. JLL shapes the future of real estate for a better world by using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people and our communities. JLL is a Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $16.6 billion in 2020, operations in over 80 countries and a global workforce of more than 95,000 as of September 30, 2021. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com.

Connect with us

https://www.linkedin.com/company/jll

https://www.facebook.com/jll

https://twitter.com/jll

https://www.instagram.com/jll

Contact: Jessica Wozniak

Phone: +1 312 228 3950

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE JLL
The Ghana Petroleum Hub project at Beyin in the Jomoro Municipality of the Western Region when completed will create over 780,000 jobs for the youth.

Mr Charles Owusu, Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), said the hub would also boost the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The PHDC was created in 2020 through the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation Act, 2020 (Act 1053) to drive the agenda in terms of securing licences, permits and other required governmental support.

The project is estimated to cost about US$60 billion and it would be implemented in three phases.

Mr Owusu was speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) about plans for Ghana's petroleum and petrochemicals hub and the advantages for incoming investors.

To foster local content development, he said, the corporation would implement training programmes for artisans and graduates to create opportunities for Ghanaians to work in the hub.

He said the qualified local companies would be offered the opportunity to provide goods and services to the hub.

Mr Owusu explained that the Hub would be an area with a network of infrastructure for the processing of crude oil and raw natural gas into refined petroleum and petrochemical products for trading, storage, transportation and distribution to third parties and for export.

This, he added, would be located on a 20,000-acre of land in the Jomoro Municipality in the Western Region of Ghana as a free zone.

Mr Owusu indicated that Petroleum Hub vision originated from the President's Ghana Beyond Aid Agenda, which aimed at making the country self-sufficient

It was about creating jobs for Ghanaians and adding value to the rich natural resources, which is in line with the country's industrialisation agenda, he said.

Without energy, the industrialisation agenda is not possible. I am confident that under the able leadership of the Minister of Energy, the vision will be realized, he added.

He said the Hub was aiming to develop four ancillary parts, including repairs and maintenance, Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) terminals, nautical services, inspection, calibration and testing.

These testing facilities, he said, would help ensure that both raw materials received and finished products were ready for export, meet all the required quality standards and procedures and conform to best international industry practices.

The Hub, Mr Owusu said, would have its own 500-MW gas-fired combined-cycle power plan as well as a residential and commercial area with water and waste treatment.

Our long-term vision involves constructing our own dry dock and having the capacity to build FPSOs in-country, he said.

GNA
Facebook has been ordered to remove content defaming a politician and post a banner on its Austrian homepage announcing the ruling after losing a legal battle.

The Vienna commercial court on December 9 also ordered the internet giant to pay 4,000 (3,349) in damages to former Greens party politician Eva Glawischnig-Piesczek.

The ruling was only made available to both the plaintiff and Facebook on Wednesday.

Glawischnig-Piesczek in 2016 requested the removal of Facebook posts that judges found defamed her and could be seen by users of the social network around the world.

The Vienna commercial court on December 9 also ordered the internet giant to pay 4,000 (3,349) in damages to former Greens party politician Eva Glawischnig-Piesczek (pictured)

The complaint also concerned messages from a fictitious account which, according to the Greens, were slanderous and which the social network refused to delete.

After a higher Austrian court referred the case to the European Union's top court for an opinion, the European body in 2019 ruled that national courts in Europe can order online platforms to remove defamatory content worldwide.

After the December ruling, 'Facebook has to inform its users within 15 days of this ruling by publishing a banner visible at the top of its home page for six months,' court spokesman Jurgen Exner said.

'Found guilty, it must immediately abstain from publishing photographs showing the plaintiff if the accompanying text' insults her.

The Austrian site's homepage now contains a hyperlink (bottom right) which takes users to an explanation of the court ruling

Glawischnig-Piesczek's lawyer Maria Windhager welcomed what she said was 'progress' against hate speech, 'because the platform had until now always refused to remove content'

'Facebook did not appeal,' he said.

Glawischnig-Piesczek's lawyer Maria Windhager welcomed what she said was 'progress' against hate speech, 'because the platform had until now always refused to remove content'.

The former lawmaker has been informed of the identity of a woman who set up a fictitious account that insulted her. She is now allowed to share this information publicly, or sue her.

Contacted by AFP, Facebook parent Meta said it would not 'share any information beyond the publication of the judgement on our website at this point in time'.
The All Pakistan Wapda Hydro Electric Workers Union organised rallies to oppose the proposed privatisation of the power distribution companies and thermal power stations at the behest of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Dawn reported.

Rallies were held at Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Multan, Sukkur, Hyderabad, Quetta and other major cities.

Hundreds of workers organised a rally outside Lahore Press Club and the participants, carrying banners in support of their demands, raised slogans against privatisation and price hike.

According to Dawn, Union secretary-general Khurshid Ahmad demanded that Prime Minister Imran Khan intervene and check the high prices of essential commodities. He demanded action against the profiteers and hoarders.

He pointed out that electricity field workers were becoming victims of accidents while performing their duties. The decisions to fill vacant posts were not implemented for more than five and a half years, he said. He announced organising workers' march on Islamabad if their demands were not accepted, Dawn reported.

It further reported that the rally also passed a resolution demanding safety to the field staff during the prevention of theft of electricity. (ANI)
HOUSTON and CINCINNATI, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Questtec Solutions has launched its brand-new online product configurator, featuring millions of product configurations for its Magne-Trac Product line. Built by CADENAS PARTsolutions, the new configurator transforms the customer experience of Questtec's website, making it easy for engineers to configure and download 3D models on-demand.

A leader in liquid measurement innovation, Questtec Solutions offers quality products and performance that customers expect. With the new product configurator now live on its website, Questtec can match its high-quality products with an equally exceptional digital customer experience.

The new tool helps engineers quickly find a Questtec product and configure it on-the-fly to match their project specifications. The configurator generates a product number and 3D preview of the configured part so that Questtec customers can see the exact part they specified. Users can then download a free 3D model in their preferred native CAD format, choosing from 150+ 3D and 2D CAD formats, to test in their application.

"We are excited to implement a 3D modeling service for our clients, so they may evaluate the product prior to placing an order, ensuring greater efficiency and assurance of getting the right part the first time," said Rhett Baker, Owner of Questtec Solutions.

In addition to on-demand CAD downloads, users can choose to download a PDF product datasheet of the configured part. This PDF features the technical specs of the configured product, the generated product number and an interactive 3D preview.

"Questtec started from the ground-up to deliver 3D models to their customers. They recognized a customer need and created a seamless user experience to get 3D CAD models in customers' hands faster and more efficiently," said Adam Beck, Director of Marketing at CADENAS PARTsolutions.

About Questtec

Questtec Solutions is an international company with representatives based around the world. Our Partners can assist with commissioning start up and calibration, 24-hour service, and repair support.

Questtec Solutions employs over 125 years of collective experience with all aspects of liquid level gauge and valve product lines. With a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and custom weld shop based in Houston, Texas, Questtec Solutions is able to provide innovative engineered solutions to meet our customer's specific needs. Learn more at: https://www.questtecsolutions.com/

About CADENAS PARTsolutions

CADENAS PARTsolutions is a leading provider of next generation marketing, sales and customer support tools for manufacturers, including 3D product catalogs with digital CAD download technology to help businesses increase sales lead generation and to ensure that components get "designed in" to OEM products. For more information visit https://partsolutions.com

Media Inquiries

CADENAS PARTsolutions

Adam Beck  Director of Marketing

400 Techne Center Dr., Ste. 301

Milford, OH 45150 USA

Phone: (513) 453-0453

Fax: (513) 453-0460

[email protected]

www.partsolutions.com

@partsolutions

SOURCE CADENAS PARTsolutions
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 3, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received the delegation led by Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, who is in Yerevan on a working visit, ARMENPRES was informed from the Offic eof the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister welcomed Mr. Schallenberg's visit to our country and expressed hope that it will give a new impetus to the further development and strengthening of the Armenian-Austrian relations. Noting that this year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Armenia and Austria, the Prime Minister stressed that there is a great potential for cooperation between the two countries. In the context of its realization, the Prime Minister stressed the need for active cooperation between the governments of Armenia and Austria in the political, economic and humanitarian spheres. At the same time, Nikol Pashinyan welcomed the holding of the Armenian-Austrian business forum in Yerevan, which will contribute to the expansion of ties between the private sectors, the development and implementation of new joint investment programs, and the increase of bilateral trade.

Alexander Schallenberg noted that he had fruitful talks with his Armenian counterpart, noting that Austria is interested in deepening cooperation with Armenia in all directions. The Austrian Foreign Minister also highlighted the expansion of economic cooperation, adding that the Austrian businessmen are very interested in opportunities to operate in Armenia. Alexander Schallenberg welcomed the reforms being implemented by the Armenian Government aimed at developing and strengthening of democracy, emphasizing that his country is ready to assist Armenia in ensuring the further effective continuation of those reforms.

Nikol Pashinyan and Alexander Schallenberg also touched upon the developments in the South Caucasus region, the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, emphasizing the need to resume the negotiation process and reach a comprehensive settlement within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairs format. In this regard, the planned visit of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs to the region was highlighted.

Issues related to the opportunities for carrying out delimitation and demarcation between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the provision of necessary conditions for that were also discussed.
The last Quad Foreign Ministers meeting was held virtually in February last year.

"The next meeting is expected to be held later this month in Melbourne. We hope to share an update on this soon," External Affairs Ministry's spokesperson Arindam Bagchi at a virtual weekly media briefing.

The first in-person Quad Leader's Summit was held in September last year in the United States. Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the meeting along with leaders of Australia, Japan and the United States.

The leaders shared their respective perspectives on Afghanistan and the regional situation in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific. (ANI)
Addison Rae showed off her sexy side as she took to Instagram on Wednesday to share some sultry photos of herself.

The 21-year-old social media sensation sizzled in a black leather cleavage-baring bustier and lace tights as she seductively posed about.

'Power,' the He's All That actress captioned the first series of photos.

Wow! Addison Rae showed off her sexy side as she took to Instagram on Wednesday to share some sultry photos of herself

The TikTok star - born Addison Rae Easterling - looked sensational in the tummy-revealing lace-up top, which highlighted her stellar toned and tan figure.

She also donned an oversized pair of black sunglasses for the indoor photoshoot, which took place next to a cozy fireplace.

Her honey brown tresses were parted in the middle and cascaded down her back.

Sensational: The 21-year-old social media sensation sizzled in a black leather cleavage-baring bustier and lace tights as she seductively frolicked on the floor

New fragrance: In another shot she is seen laying down on a couch as she promotes her latest perfume, the Addison Rae Fragrance

She accessorized the look with a simple pair of small gold hoop earrings and two silver bracelets.

The Louisiana born star glammed up for the shoot, adding a touch of pink lipstick that shimmered on her pout.

In another shot she is seen laying down on a brown leather couch as she promotes her latest perfume, the Addison Rae Fragrance.

Details: She also donned an oversized pair of black sunglasses for the indoor photoshoot

Stunner: Her honey brown tresses were parted in the middle and cascaded down her back

The influencer announced that she would be making the brand's first three offerings available to the public this past November.

The scents that have been sold are both vegan and water-based, as well as being alcohol-free.

Her 40.3M fans were stunned by the sizzling photos, with one writing, 'Incomparable.'

Continuing to heat things up on the social media platform, Rae added another series of images that feature her in a long-sleeve black bodysuit and floral black lace tights.

Hot stuff: In another image she is seen casually sitting on her tip toes on what appears to be the roof of a building

What a look! Continuing to heat things up on the social media platform, the influencer posed in a long-sleeve black bodysuit and floral black lace tights

Kourtney approved: The sexy snap received the approval from her friend Kourtney Kardashian, who left a like on the photo

She is seen casually sitting on her tip toes on what appears to be the roof of a building.

She captioned the photo with a pink bow emoji.

The sexy snap received the approval from her friend Kourtney Kardashian, who left a like on the photo.

The sultry photoshoot continued with yet another set of images, captioned with the black-heart emoji, where the star showcased her spectacular curves as she leaned on a chair.

All-black: The sultry photoshoot continued with yet another set of images, captioned simply with the black-heart emoji
MEXICO CITY, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Wednesday said he was confident the economy will be able to grow at a rate of about 5 percent in the coming years, as the COVID-19 pandemic wanes.

At his usual daily press conference at the National Palace in Mexico City, the president noted Mexico's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded by 5 percent in 2021.

"Fortunately, we already have indicators that COVID's new variant (Omicron) is losing strength, because that was what prevented us from reaching 6 percent growth, among other factors," Lopez Obrador said.

He predicted growth of 5 percent for 2022, 2023 and 2024, for an average annual growth rate of more than 2 percent during his six-year term in office.

Mexico's president, who took office in December 2018, ruled out the economy being in a recession, as some analysts believe.

Mexican GDP plummeted 8.2 percent in 2020, its worst performance since the 1930s, due to the impact of the pandemic.

"I am satisfied because it (the economy) continues to grow, we are emerging from the crisis," he said. 
HOUSTON, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TPC Group (the Company), a global leader in providing a diverse range of quality products and services to chemical and petroleum-based companies worldwide, disclosed today that its Senior Leadership Team, members of the Board of Directors, and professional advisors are in ongoing, constructive discussions with a group representing nearly 90% and approximately 80% of the Companys two series of senior secured notes (the Ad Hoc Group), as well as other economic stakeholders.



The Company did not make approximately $53 million in total interest payments due on the secured notes on February 1, 2022; the payments are subject to a 30-day grace period. Today, the Company signed a forbearance agreement with the Ad Hoc Group, under which the Ad Hoc Group has agreed to forbear from exercising remedies relating to the event of default that will occur if the Company does not make the February 1 coupon payments within the 30-day grace period. The forbearance agreement is effective until March 18, 2022 and may be extended by the Ad Hoc Group.

In connection with the forbearance agreement, the Ad Hoc Group has also agreed to provide the Company with approximately $52 million of additional liquidity in the form of a commitment to purchase additional senior secured priming notes due 2024. The Company expects to use proceeds from the new notes to support ongoing operations, and to pay fees and expenses associated with the transaction. The Companys ability to draw on the commitment will be subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions precedent, including an amendment to the Companys ABL facility. The Ad Hoc Group members have agreed to approve amendments to the existing indentures necessary to permit the issuance of the new notes.

Im pleased to report that our operations are running reliably with good EHSS performance and strong demand for all our products. We are working closely with key financial stakeholders to strengthen our financial structure and to position the Company for long-term success. The actions announced today are important steps toward those goals, said Ed Dineen, TPC Group President and CEO. We will continue delivering for our customers, suppliers and employees. As always, we will uphold our commitment to operate in a safe and environmentally responsible manner  protective of our people and our local communities.

TPC Group has a more than 75-year operating history as a leader in North America across all of its product lines and as the largest independent processor of crude C4. Furthermore, TPC Group is a recognized global leader in producing value-added products and raw materials such as C4 hydrocarbons, and a provider of critical infrastructure and logistics services to petrochemical operators along the Gulf Coast.

The Company is advised by Moelis & Company LLC, Baker Botts L.L.P., Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, and FTI Consulting, Inc. The Ad Hoc Group is advised by Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP and Evercore.

About TPC Group

TPC Group, headquartered in Houston, is a leading producer of value-added products derived from petrochemical raw materials such as C4 hydrocarbons, and provider of critical infrastructure and logistics services along the Gulf Coast. The Company sells its products into a wide range of performance, specialty and intermediate markets, including synthetic rubber, fuels, lubricant additives, plastics and surfactants. With an operating history of 75 years, TPC Group has a manufacturing facility in the industrial corridor adjacent to the Houston Ship Channel and operates product terminals in Port Neches, Texas and Lake Charles, Louisiana.
GREAT NECK, N.Y., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Home Care Consulting Firm in New York paves the way to help small struggling Licensed Home Care Service Agencies in NY. Avid Lead Consultant at Emmanuel Consulting Agency was interviewed an expressed deep concern for the home care industry in NY and across the country. Registered Nurse Julia Akinyooye RN MSN Nurse Consultant at Emmanuel Consulting Agency provides expert consulting services to home care businesses.

Julia Akinyooye RN MSN Lead Consultant at Emmanuel Consulting Agency Inc Julia Akinyooye Courtesy of BlackMade Photography http://www.blackmadephotography.com/

Since the state passed a moratorium back in April, 2018, there has been a significant shift in the homecare industry. Further, the Covid-19 pandemic has drastically changed the home care industry in many ways. Shortages of home care workers are the leading cause of the significant struggles home care agencies are experiencing. Meanwhile, the bigger home care agencies in NY are currently in preparation to receive FMAP funding and awaiting approval from the state and CMS. As an initiative to help small home care businesses get over the hump of the pandemic and as part of Emmanuel Consulting Agency's 7th anniversary in business the NY based home care consulting firm has formed an initiative to provide complimentary consulting to small businesses who demonstrate great need in consulting assistance and compliance. Emmanuel Consulting Agency will provide a number of hours of consulting to LHCSA's that demonstrate great consulting need and financial struggle for the month of February. The consulting firm believes this will help struggling agencies stay compliant and allow the consulting firm to "give back" to the agencies that were not on the list to receive the pending FMAP funding. Furthermore, Emmanuel Consulting Agency has since signed a campaign initiated by NYS Association of Health Care Providers (HCP) a home care advocacy group based in Albany, NY to urge the state to assist LHCSA's that are struggling due to the pandemic and demand emergency financial relief. One of the major concerns of the advocacy group relayed in a recent survey to its members stated that nearly 90% of home care respondents are having difficulty serving patients and nearly 11% of respondents stated they are having financial losses so great that they are considering closing. If you are a small LHCSA grossing less than 5 million in revenue annually you may reach out to Emmanuel Consulting Agency to see if you qualify for complimentary consulting as part of their comradery to home care agencies.

Emmanuel Consulting Agency, established in 2015 a Minority owned and female-lead home care consulting firm based in New York provides consulting services for new and existing agencies. They are known for their famous "mock surveys" and their home care Administrators/Directors training program for home care agency owners that promotes regulatory compliance training and helps new agencies across the county startup "the right way," They offer an array of services to entrepreneurs to assist in setting up their agency with a solid foundation, as well as new business professionals, Health Care Entrepreneurs, Healthcare Investors, Nurses and other Professionals, who are new to the industry or need robust higher level consulting for their home care startups. They provide assistance with grant proposals, auditing, plan of correction, home care licensing, home care policies and procedures/ forms accreditation services, and readiness assessments for operational efficiencies for Lead Fiscal Intermediaries and Preparation for Request for Proposals/ Offers.

The Consulting firms' mission is to:

Provide home care business owners across the United States high level consulting through education where medical and nonmedical professionals learn how to start and operate an agency Understand the rules and regulations of the industry Strive not only to meet minimum standards set by the regulatory bodies, but provide value-based services Utilize innovative technology for a more streamlined onboarding process and improve patient experience and outcome. Help agencies provide premium value-based service that includes holistic care, and patient centered goals Help agencies to provide superb premium customer service to patients, their families, and to staff Recruit and train qualified caregivers by using a new and innovative approach to recruiting and training home health aides, and provide customer service-based training To address "burnout" "ghosting" and enhance patient/ caregiver matching strategically, and to introduce patient/ family online HIPAA compliant portals and chats.

For more information you may visit www.emmanuelconsultingteam.com or call the firm at (516) 362-3000. The initiative will be funded by Emmanuel Consulting Agency for a limited time, subject to specific requirements.

"To sign the campaign urge financial relief for home care agencies" click here https://p2a.co/HTKF8bA

Contact: Carmela Perone

Phone: (516) 362-3000

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.emmanuelconsultingteam.com

https://p2a.co/HTKF8bA

SOURCE Emmanuel Consulting Agency Inc
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

An Ontario company that develops soybean genetics and exports the commodity around the world is looking to capitalize on the growing demand for soy by introducing new varieties onto Manitoba farms.

With processing facilities just south of Ottawa and west of Toronto, Sevita International has been around for 25 years and is well established in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada.

Since 2019 it has had growing success in Manitoba with its non-GMO soy varieties that it sells mostly into the Asian market.

While it is not shipping millions of tonnes of the commodity, it is one of the largest Canadian exporters of soy to Japan.

Sandy Hart, Sevitas business manager, said they are super happy with results in Manitoba.

Weve not had any soy beans rejected due to protein content in Manitoba since we started there in 2019, which is a really big thing, he said.

Around the world, there is a surging demand for soy. According to a recent market research report the global soy food market reached a value of US$42 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow by 5.2 per cent between 2021-2026.

Hart said there is still unmet demand and his company intends to aggressively increase its Manitoba acreage, which he said is still not in the tens of thousands of acres range.

We have been diligent in testing varieties making sure they will perform for the growers, he said. The ones that have purchased seed to date have had good luck getting the quality we have required for the contacts.

Scott Perkin, a producer who operates a farm in southwest Manitoba, produced his first crop of Sevitas IP (identity preserved) soy last year.

Were happy to grow this variety and play our role in the specific link in the food chain, Perkin said. We receive a premium for growing this product for Sevita where the end user knows exactly where it came from.

The Sevita genetics are not yet very well known in Manitoba, but Hart said the company is looking to change that with increasing success in contracting with producers who are guaranteed a price for their crop.

In 2020 Sevita partnered with Ceres Global Seeds, an established seed dealer network with regional soybean expertise.

End users process Sevitas food-grade soybeans into various kinds of soy food products like tofu, soymilk, natto, miso, soy sauce, soy cream, soy based meats, yoghurt and cheese.

martin.cash@freepress.mb.ca
From left, Justice Party presidential candidate Sim Sang-jung, ruling Democratic Party of Korea candidate Lee Jae-myung, main opposition People Power Party candidate Yoon Suk-yeol and People's Party candidate Ahn Cheol-soo bump fists before their TV debate at broadcaster KBS' studio in Yeouido, Seoul, Thursday. Joint Press Corps



Lee underscores pragmatism, Yoon vows to fix Korea-US alliance



By Nam Hyun-woo





South Korea's rival presidential candidates presented starkly contrasting diplomatic views during their first TV debate, Friday. Ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung underscored pragmatism, while main opposition People Power Party (PPP) candidate Yoon Suk-yeol vowed to restore the Korea-U.S. alliance, claiming it had weakened considerably after President Moon Jae-in stepped into office five years ago.



During the debate, hosted and televised by broadcasters KBS, MBC and SBS, Lee, Yoon, People's Party candidate Ahn Cheol-soo and Justice Party candidate Sim Sang-jung were asked to choose among the leaders of the U.S., China, Japan and North Korea, who they would meet first if elected.



Lee refused to choose a leader at this point and opted instead to base that decision on South Korea's pressing diplomatic needs.



"We don't have to decide who to meet first in advance," Lee said. "Given South Korea's geopolitical aspect as a peninsula, the most important thing is pragmatic diplomacy. We should decide depending on the progress of the diplomatic situation."



Responding to the same question, Yoon of the main conservative party said he will meet U.S. President Joe Biden first, followed by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.






Earlier this month, Samsung Electronics President Dr. TM Roh sent out a message about their upcoming Unpacked Event set for February ninth. Roh stated that "In a sea of smartphone sameness and iterative updates, our ambition remains firm: to detect the signals that transformation is stirring  by listening to your feedback  and continue to deliver mobile experiences that empower us all to evolve.

We know many of you were surprised when Samsung didnt release a new Galaxy Note last year. You loved the unparalleled creativity and efficiency of the Galaxy Note series, which enabled you to switch from gaming nirvana to high-octane productivity in the blink of an eye. You raved about the lifelike S Pen, which many say rivals putting ink to paper. And we havent forgotten about these experiences you love." More of Roh's message could be viewed here.

(Click on image to Enlarge)

Samsung's promotional video below makes one thing crystal clear. Their next-gen S22 will definitely deliver a new camera that could take clear photos in the dark of night.

Roh's message seemed to hint that they'll be delivering a next-gen Galaxy Note device sometime in the not-too-distant future. Whether that will translate to next week, mid-to-late August or yet a future point in time is unknown at this time.

What could Samsung's future Galaxy Note smartphone possibly deliver? Well, interesting enough, while researching Samsung's patents this weekend, I came across a series of interesting inventions. The one relevant to this report is a tri-fold Galaxy Note invention. Below are some of the key patent figures and random notes from that patent that could take their Galaxy Note to the next level with a tri-fold design.

Samsung's patent FIG. 1 below illustrates a smartphone in a folded state; in FIG. 3 the smartphone is in the open state; FIG. 4B illustrates the smartphone in the process of folding and the S-Pen is clearly illustrated. The folding smartphone is provided with a first and second "receiving grove."

Samsung's patent FIG. 6B below illustrate a side view of a folded state of a smartphone and an insertion operation of an S-Pen; FIG. 13 shows a fixing structure related to the smartphone's S-Pen. According to Samsung, a locking protrusion and a locking groove are to guide the S-Pen and keep it securely within the smartphone.

Random Patent Points:

Samsung describes the possible use of Force Touch.

The display module may include a display, a hologram device or a circuit for controlling the projector and the corresponding device.

The Sensor module may include a gesture sensor, gyro sensor, an atmospheric sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor and an illuminance sensor.

The smartphone shall include a haptic module, camera module, a power management module, a communication module, a rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery or a fuel cell.

The smartphone may contain two processors. The auxiliary processor (e.g., a graphics processor or a communications processor. The auxiliary processor may include machine learning and AI. The AI neural networks my be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (DNN), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional current deep neural network (RBM), deep Q-networks, or a combination of two or more thereof. The artificial intelligence model may additionally or alternatively include a software structure in addition to the hardware structure.

There's no use going deeper into this patent as it's unknown if the tri-fold Samsung Note with S-Pen is what's coming next week or "sometime" in the future. The patent was filed under International Application No. PCT/KR2021/009577 and published on January 27, 2022. It was originally filed in July 2021.

Side Note: Going forward we'll be posting non-Apple patent reports under the new Patently Mobile category in our sidebar. Our Patently Mobile site, found in our navigation bar, remains the place of our older non-Apple patent reports.
Outside the US embassy in Havana, Cuba (AP)

The United States has released further information about an investigation into reports of so-called Havana Syndrome among overseas staffers and their families.

The US said on Wednesday that pulse electromagnetic energy, particularly in the radio frequency range, plausibly explains symptoms associated with the strange illness.

Symptoms including ear pain, nausea, and vertigo have been reported by American diplomats and intelligence officers  and their families  for almost six years. but no cause has been determined for a handful of cases.

The incidents began in Havana, Cuba, in 2016 and have been reported as far afield as Russia, China and Vietnam  as well as in Vienna, Austria, last year.

A study involving some of the 1,000 people affected by symptoms associated with Havana Syndrome, long thought to be a form of neurological illness, contributed to the new findings.

It concluded that a combination of symptoms cannot be easily explained by known environment or medical conditions among a dozen of the 1,000 cases, and that a targeted device may have been the cause.

The US government has defended claims from those affected by the strange illness that it has failed to address concerns, as well as accusations from 15 or so employees that the CIA was experiencing a revolt within its workforce because people feared being sent overseas.

A CIA report in January was among the first to reveal that a dozen or so cases of Havana Syndrome could not be explained, and a US intelligence source told reporters that a foreign adversary had not been ruled out in those incidents.

The cases of Havana Syndrome began in 2016 (AFP via Getty Images)

The newest findings said a majority of Havana Syndrome reports were the result of stress or natural causes, however, and not caused by a form of pulse electromagnetic energy or were directed.

The US also said last month it did not believe another country or foreign adversary had targeted its staffers internationally, but that it had not ruled out such an explaination for the unexplained cases.

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Mark Zaid, a lawyer representing victims from numerous US government agencies, said in a statement on Tuesday that the findings reinforce the need for a coordinated, whole of government approach.

These piecemeal agency reviews at times reveal inconsistent and even contradictory results, the lawyer added.

The director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy said it took nearly nine months for a panel to publish the finings on Wednesday.

The panel does believe symptoms were genuine and compelling and that further work and assessment was necessary to establish what had caused the unexplained causes of Havana Syndrome, said Eric Lander.

Additional reporting by Reuters and Associated Press.
WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The United States has taken enhanced efforts to boost confidence from the public in vaccinating COVID-19 shots against the surge of new infections driven by the highly transmissible Omicron variant.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted full approval to Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine on Monday, for use in people ages 18 and older.

The vaccine, named Spikevax, joins Pfizer-BioNTech's formulation as the two fully-approved COVID-19 vaccines in the United States.

The full approval suggests that Spikevax meets the FDA's rigorous standards for safety, effectiveness and manufacturing quality.

FDA acting commissioner Janet Woodcock said that the full approval for Moderna is a "significant step" in getting more Americans vaccinated and ending the COVID-19 pandemic.

"While millions of people have already safely received COVID-19 vaccines, we recognize that for some, the FDA approval of a vaccine may now instill additional confidence to get vaccinated," she said.

Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine has been available under the FDA's emergency use authorization (EUA) for individuals 18 years of age and older since Dec. 18, 2020.

Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine, Comirnaty, was fully approved for use in people ages 16 and older in August 2021.

On the same day when the FDA fully approved Moderna's vaccine, American biotechnology company Novavax announced it has formally submitted a request for the FDA's EUA for its COVID-19 vaccine candidate.

Novavax's protein-based COVID-19 vaccine, named NVX-CoV2373, is intended for immunization of individuals 18 years of age and older against SARS-CoV-2.

Novavax conducted two pivotal Phase 3 clinical trials, one involving approximately 30,000 participants in the United States and Mexico, and another one with almost 15,000 participants in Britain.

In both trials, the vaccine demonstrated efficacy with a "reassuring safety profile", with severe adverse events low in number and balanced between vaccine and placebo groups, according to the company.

Meanwhile, kids as young as 6 months old may be able to get a COVID-19 vaccine in the United States within a few weeks, as the FDA has scheduled an advisors' meeting in mid-February to discuss the request for EUA of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for use in children 6 months through 4 years of age.

Pfizer and BioNTech have initiated a rolling submission seeking to amend the EUA of its COVID-19 vaccine to include children 6 months through 4 years of age.

Kids under 5 years old are the last age group left that is not eligible for vaccination in the United States.

Parents are anxiously awaiting the vaccine for younger children as the Omicron variant sweeps across the nation, causing record-high infections among younger ones.

Over 3.5 million child COVID-19 cases were reported in the United States in January, as child cases have "spiked dramatically" during the Omicron variant surge, according to the latest report of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children's Hospital Association.

Although children are at much lower risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19 compared to adults, their hospitalizations have increased during the recent surge of infections. Health experts are concerned about the long-lasting impacts on the kids' physical, mental, and social well-being. 
Centamin PLC (TSX:CEE, LSE:CEY, OTC:CELTF) chief executive Martin Horgan joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with an update on the company's flagship Sukari Gold Mine in Egypt and its projects in West Africa.

Horgan telling Proactive that the Sukari ore body still presents an opportunity for growth and expansion as Centamin prepares to complete a 36MW solar plant at the mine and enters an exploration bid round for an additional land package in Egypt.

The company is also preparing to deliver a pre-feasibility study for its Doropo project in Ivory Coast.
LAS CRUCES - With snow and very cold temperatures anticipated Thursday to Saturday, the City of Las Cruces will activate seven warming stations for residents seeking relief from the inclement weather.

Warming stations will be open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, or until further notice, at the following locations:

Henry R. Benavidez Senior Center, 1045 McClure Road.

Munson Senior Center, 975 S. Mesquite St.

Sage Cafe Senior Center, 6121 Reynolds Drive.

Meerscheidt Recreation Center, 1600 E. Hadley Ave.

Frank OBrien Papen Center, 304 W. Bell Ave.

City Hall, 700 N. Main St.

Thomas Branigan Memorial Library, 200 E. Picacho Ave.

The city Public Works Departments response to this storm will include:

A six-man man crew will report to the citys Streets Management offices at midnight Thursday and will begin mobilizing equipment before the snow starts early Thursday morning. The citys equipment includes two salt spreaders and loaders.

More: Las Cruces schools go remote Thursday due to expected icy roads

Crews will begin applying salt to city streets before the snow starts, using an established priority list of roads that are close to, and leading to, hospitals, schools, overpasses, City Hall, main arterial roads, and major collector streets.

Crews will monitor city streets throughout Thursday.

City government intends to operate as usual on Thursday. However, there will be an assessment and a public notification by city administrators by 6 a.m. Thursday if conditions change.

RoadRUNNER Transit is planning to operate with its usual hours, but transit administrators will evaluate roadways early Thursday morning.

Frenger Pool, 800 Parkview Drive, will be closed to the public from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Thursday. All Parks and Recreation Out of School Time Programs (Afterschool, Teen Connection, A. Fielder Memorial Safe Haven) will be closed Thursday.

A Winter Weather Advisory for Las Cruces, issued by the National Weather Service, will be in effect from 8 p.m. Wednesday to 11 a.m. Thursday. Las Cruces is expected to receive 1 to 2 inches of snow that is anticipated to start falling during the predawn hours Thursday. However, if a cold front, from the east, moves through Las Cruces sooner, the city could get 2 to 3 inches of snow.

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Have a cool snow photo? Email it to news@lcsun-news.com. We'll add reader-submitted photos to a gallery online and publish the best in the print edition.

Cold temperatures, with low wind-chill temperatures, are expected with this storm. Weather Service meteorologists have said temperatures at or below freezing are possible for as long as 60 consecutive hours, through Saturday. Residents are urged to take precautions regarding the four Ps: People, pets, pipes and plants.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Here's the City of Las Cruces plan for dealing with expected inclement weather
The trial over Sarah Palins defamation suit against The New York Times, a high-profile test of how far juries will go in assigning liability to media organizations for making errors, resumed on Thursday, a week and a half after its start in federal court in Lower Manhattan was delayed because Ms. Palin tested positive for the coronavirus.

Ms. Palin sat silently at the front of the courtroom, frequently looking in the direction of the jury as lawyers for her and The Times presented drastically different portrayals of the events that led up to the episode in dispute: an editorial the paper published in 2017 that initially erroneously attributed her political rhetoric to a mass shooting outside Tucson, Ariz., in 2011 that left six dead and gravely wounded former Representative Gabrielle Giffords.

Ms. Palins lawyer, Shane Vogt, asked the jurors to set aside whatever opinions they may have about the former Alaska governor and 2008 Republican nominee for vice president. He said Ms. Palin was not asking for your votes but instead asking that they see the error as the kind of reckless disregard for truth that would warrant a monetary judgment against The Times.
03.02.2022 LISTEN

Onua TV/FMs morning show host Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, is nowhere to be found barely 12 hours after he was taken into National Security custody.

The Maakye host was detained by the state security apparatus shortly after an Accra Circuit Court granted him bail on Wednesday, February 2.

He had pleaded not guilty to two respective counts of charges of extortion and abetment to extortion.

But, according to the National Security, there was an order from above to bring Captain Smart and one other to the secretariat.

He was then caged for the night despite reportedly meeting the bail conditions.

When top management of Media General, the mother company of Onua FM and Onua TV, visited the secretariat to visit the radio host, he was nowhere to be found.

Enquiries directed the team including Group Chief Executive Officer Beatrice Agyemang to the Ministries Police Station, where they were told he was not in the records to have been there.

It has now become a matter of worry to all, particularly staff of Media General, as to where Captain Smart is.
Tamil Nadu has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court challenging the order of the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court transferring probe into the girl suicide case to CBI. Recently, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has ordered that the probe into the girl suicide matter will be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The order came on the plea filed by the girl father. Meanwhile, the father of the victim girl has filed a caveat in the Supreme Court in connection with the Madras High Court Madurai bench order which transferred the probe of the case to CBI. A Lakshminarayanan advocate for Lavanya's father Muruganantham has filed a caveat in the apex court in connection with the matter. The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district and was allegedly being forced to convert to Christianity by her school. Allegations of torture after her refusal to convert were also raised by the girl. According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on January 9 and had succumbed ten days later. Recently, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay in the apex court seeking direction to investigate the root cause of Lavanya's suicide and to issue direction to the Centre to enact a stringent Anti-Conversion Law immediately. (ANI)
Cheslie Kryst onstage at the 2019 Miss Universe Pageant December 08, 2019. Para Griffin/Getty Images

CBS host Gayle King wrote about her shock on learning of Cheslie Kryst's suicide.

King and Kryst were friends since the former Miss USA appeared on "CBS This Morning."

King called on readers to check in with friends even if they appear strong and happy.

Gayle King described her shock and dismay on learning of the death of her friend Cheslie Kryst, in an emotional essay published Monday.

Writing for "Oprah Daily," the CBS host said that she couldn't believe the news when she was first told.

Kryst killed herself on Sunday. On Wednesday her mother April Simpkins released a statement saying that Kryst lived with depression and "hid her pain from everyone."

Medical officials confirmed her death as a suicide on Monday, according to CNN. The 30-year-old was a lawyer and correspondent for Extra TV who won Miss USA in 2019  a seismic year in which all four major pageant titles went to Black women.

King said she got the news in a text message. "I honestly thought I had read it wrong," she wrote. "I even googled it because I thought there must have been some mistake."

"I simply refused to believe it," she wrote. But once officials confirmed the cause of death as suicide, she accepted it.

"Cheslie's death is a jarring reminder that you never really know what's going on in people's lives," King wrote.

King said she met Kryst in 2019 when she hosted her on "CBS This Morning," and said she was drawn to her.

"She had that gorgeous head of hair, that megawatt smile, not to mention that she was just a really kind person. She was so much more than a pretty girl with a microphone," she wrote.

The two stayed in touch ever since  meeting over Zoom and for lunch, she wrote.

"We'd talk about her job, dating, and everything else going on in her life," she wrote.

Cheslie Kryst. John Lamparski/Getty Images

But throughout their friendship, there was nothing in Kryst's behavior to suggest she was struggling, wrote King. That disparity is "part of the reason I'm so gutted by the news," she said.

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Kryst also left an impression of an effervescent, happy life on her social media feed. But, as experts told Insider's Kieran Press-Reynolds in the wake of Kryst's death, people living with depression often mask their symptoms to project a "perfect" exterior.

"Everybody who knew or worked with Cheslie is walking around in shock," wrote King. "How do you explain the unexplainable?"

Saying that it was "equally scary" that other people may be masking symptoms of depression, King called on readers to check in on even their "strong" friends.

Read the original article on Insider
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Inland Pipe Rehabilitation ("IPR"), a portfolio company of investment affiliates of J.F. Lehman & Company ("JFLCO"), announced today the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Inliner from Granite Construction Incorporated and certain affiliated companies ("Granite"). The acquisition enhances IPR's capabilities and service solutions while expanding its presence throughout North America.

Inliner is a leading, vertically integrated provider of trenchless pipe rehabilitation solutions addressing wastewater and storm water infrastructure. Since 1927, the Company has established a sterling reputation as a leader in resin- and UV-based cured-in-place-pipe solutions, geopolymer liner and construction management services, supporting government customers across the United States and Canada. The company's services are strengthened and supported by market leading manufacturing capabilities. Inliner is the second add-on acquisition completed by IPR under JFLCO sponsorship.

Founded in 1973, IPR is a leading water infrastructure services company providing diversified trenchless pipe rehabilitation solutions and technologies for the municipal waste, storm and potable water applications. IPR's capabilities deliver minimally disruptive, cost-effective solutions for government customers to actively manage aging underground pipe infrastructure. The company is headquartered in Conyers, GA with operating locations throughout the United States.

Jim Baumgardner, Chief Executive Officer of IPR, commented, "We believe the combination of IPR and Inliner will further strengthen both organizations, and provide our customers with a breadth and depth of service unmatched across our industry. We are excited to welcome Inliner into the IPR family."

"This is a compelling opportunity to establish a unique service provider in this market  a national presence, delivering scaled capabilities across numerous technologies and delivery methods, addressing storm, waste and potable water infrastructure," said Glenn Shor, Chairman of IPR and Partner at JFLCO. "The addition of Inliner builds upon the acquisition of Murphy Pipeline Contractors in our strategy to support the IPR platform through strategic M&A and organic growth initiatives" added Dave Thomas, Managing Director at JFLCO.

The agreement, which is subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close in the first half of 2022.

Jones Day is providing legal counsel and Houlihan Lokey is serving as exclusive financial advisor to IPR and JFLCO. Perella Weinberg Partners is serving as exclusive financial advisor and Shearman & Sterling is providing legal counsel to Granite. Financing for the transaction will be provided by Atlantic Park Strategic Capital Fund, L.P. Monroe Capital, LLC will remain administrative agent to IPR's senior credit facility.

About J.F. Lehman & Company, Inc.

Founded in 1992, J.F. Lehman & Company is a leading middle-market private equity firm focused exclusively on the aerospace, defense, maritime, government and environmental sectors. The firm has offices in New York and Washington, D.C.

For more information about J.F. Lehman & Company, please visit www.jflpartners.com.

SOURCE J.F. Lehman & Company
03.02.2022 LISTEN

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIR!

Today, February 3rd, 2022, marks the birth of an illustrious son of the land. An distinguished personality who has contributed immensely to the progress and growth of Ghana's democracy.

Born on a Sunday morning some 65years ago in Bremang Afrancho, a suburb in the Ashanti region of Ghana, Hon. OKMB, has in most part of his life, depicted unique traits of loyalty, honor and consistency throughout his time of public service. His diligence, intelligence and the competence with which he delivers whenever mandated to perform any task, has won him much admiration from many great men in this country and beyond.

To the Ashanti King, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II (HRM), Hon. OKMB is the Sompahene, to wit; A Chief Servant. A title he, the Royal Majesty, bestowed on the venerable captain of legislators.

To the President of the Republic of Ghana, He is extremely versatile in handling various subject matters including legal issues, even though he is not a lawyer.

The Vice President of the Republic, Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia has also given his piece of commendation, stating  I have great respect for him because he is a man of great integrity, with deep understanding, and I dare to say, a repository of knowledge when it comes to parliamentary affairs.

Hon. OKMB's political tolerance and firm belief in consensus building, is seen and attested to by key persons even from opposing political parties.

The Minority Leader, Hon. Haruna Iddrissu once stated In my short life as Minority Leader, I can attest to his fidelity to principles and his continuing quest to build consensus on many national issues

The current Speaker of Parliament described him as Diligent, Focused with a taste for detail and phonetic voice, the ever-present Hon. Dr. Osei, delivered his contribution with with decorum, civility and decency.

Born to Ama Serwaa, a kin of the Biretuo Abusua in Afrancho Brokrong- Bremang and a staunch member of the Assemblies of God church, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu had a typical Christian training, as a child. With strict sense of discipline, a touch of Christian ethics and other enviable principles being at the core of his upbringing, OKMB's admirable qualities in public life, can unequivocally be attributed to the training he had.

As a dependable family man, Hon. OKMB is blessed with a very beautiful companion, in the person of SOMPAHEMAA Mrs. Irene Kyei Mensah Bonsu, a UK-trained professional Nurse and a renowned philanthropist, who doubles as the Executive Director of the 'Sompahemaa Foundation'. He is blessed with adorable children.

As an urban planner by profession and an astute career politician with over 25years of experience in Ghanaian politics, 'Leader' has chalked so many achievements.

Hon. OKMB entered parliament in 1997, and has risen through the ranks from being the Secretary to Minority, through to being the Minority Leader and subsequently the Majority Leader, Minister responsible for Parliamentary Affairs and Leader of Government Business.

Institutions of higher learning have constantly acknowledged his in-depth knowledge and insight in politics and governance in general. The University of Professional Studies, in 2017, at their 9th congregation conferred on him, an Honorary Doctorate Degree (Doctor of Laws). That being said, Hon. OKMB has also given keynote addresses at numerous forums, lectures and symposia at several institutions of higher learning.

Today, we celebrate, not only a consummate politician but a loyal stalwart of the New Patriotic Party and a compassionate family man and a legend who has so much love for his country and its entire citizenry.

As stipulated in the epistles of William Shakespeare's Act 3 Scene 1, In thy face I see the map of Honour, Truth and Loyalty ~King Henry (VI).

To the many, especially the youth who admire and would want to emulate Hon. OKMB, Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and diligence.

~ Abigail Adams.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SOMPAHENE

GOD BLESS OKMB

BE BLESSED LEGEND!

Thank You.

Nana Agyemang Baah Daniel

President

Jonathan Baah

Secretary

Kwasi Owusu Frimpong

Ag. Director Of Communications

Kwabena Frimpong

Founder
03.02.2022 LISTEN

Minority in Parliament has accused the Nana Addo administration of attempts to use the courts to reduce their numerical strength in parliament.

Addressing the media, Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu argued the Attorney General (AG) and the Police Administration are acting in concert to unjustly prosecute the Assin North lawmaker just to fulfil the tainted motives of the government.

He explained that the criminal charges filed against the Assin North MP James Quayson is a desperate attempt by government to reduce the numbers of the NDC in parliament in order to get the controversial E-Levy passed.

Its obvious that the desperate Akufo-Addo government, the Attorney Generals office and the Police Administration are acting in bad faith to get an unfair advantage in parliament for the Nana Akufo-Addo, Bawumia government in its unbridled quest to pass the unpopular, insensitive e-levy which remains a major disincentive to the development of our digital economy and an apparent disregard for their own quest for a cash lite economy, Haruna Iddrisu argued.

The National Democratic Congress( NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, has been charged with criminal offences in relation to his alleged dual nationality when he contested the 2020 parliamentary elections.

The Attorney-General (A-G) has dragged Mr Quayson to the Accra High Court on five counts of forgery of passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury and false declaration for office.

It is the case of the A-G that Mr Quayson allegedly made a false statement to the Passport Office that he did not hold a passport to another country when he applied for a Ghanaian Passport.

In addition, the A-G has accused Mr Quayson of making a false declaration to the Electoral Commission (EC) to the effect that he (Quayson) did not owe any allegiance to a foreign country when he filed to contest as candidate for the Assin North seat.
Teosinte plants, like the one pictured at left, produce only up to a dozen kernels. Ears of corn, like the one on the right, produce hundreds of kernels. Credit: Kan Wang

It's almost like time travel.

Iowa State University scientists are learning how to peer back through millennia of domestication to learn how a wild grassy plant known as teosinte developed into corn, the modern cash crop grown across the globe. The research allows scientists to compare genes in corn against its wild ancestor, which could help plant breeders identify advantageous traits that may have been bred out of teosinte over the centuries.

The researchers published their findings recently in the academic journal Frontiers in Plant Science, detailing a new biotech tool that harnesses cutting-edge techniques to produce fertile transgenic teosinte plants for the first time.

Humans began domesticating teosinte, a wild grass native to Mexico, roughly 10,000 years ago. Each teosinte plant yields only up to a dozen kernels, which are tough and contain less nutrients than modern corn. So people selected individual teosinte plants for higher yields, eventually developing new varieties with their own unique traits.

But some of the original genetic material from teosinte got lost along the way. Identifying this genetic material could help breed better corn today, or at least offer scientists clues about how to better harness the genetic diversity of corn, said Jacob Zobrist, a graduate student in agronomy and first author of the study.

"We don't know what we don't know about those ancestor traits," Zobrist said. "It's our hope to identify traits in the wild ancestor that would be helpful for modern maize. Those traits could include disease resistance and stress resistance as well as nutrient content and maybe even improving growing and flowering times."

The new study details how the scientists discovered a robust callus induction and regeneration protocol using whorl segments of seedlings germinated from mature seeds. That means the researchers were able to produce callus tissue, which is similar to stem cells that are undifferentiated and haven't yet developed into variant cells.

These undifferentiated callus cells are amenable to the introduction of new DNA via transgenic technology. Using gene editing technology such as CRISPR, researchers can now target specific teosinte genes and switch them off, giving them a new level of understanding of how the wild plant was domesticated into a global staple crop.

New biotech tool expands understanding

It's a little bit like reaching back through time to see what traits ancient plant breeders selected for, said Kan Wang, the Global Professor of Biotechnology in agronomy and corresponding author of the study. Wang's laboratory began studying teosinte in 2010, and she said the new publication represents a major step forward in understanding teosinte and the origins of modern corn.

"This is going to open up a lot of possibilities for many people who are interested in either basic research or agricultural applied research," said Wang, who is currently a rotating program director for the National Science Foundation.

Wang credited Zobrist's contributions for making the overall study a success. Zobrist joined Wang's lab in 2018 with support from the National Science Foundation's Predictive Plant Phenomics Fellowship, which provides innovative data-enabled science and engineering training to students with experience in plant sciences. Zobrist's contribution to the research was to make the transformation repeatable by optimizing the culture medium used to grow the teosinte plants. Zobrist found a new tissue-culture regimen that included plant hormones in the growth medium.

"We've developed the tool, and without it, it's very difficult to understand teosinte. One of the main players who made that happen was Jacob. He did critical work," Wang said.

Zobrist is a native of Spencer, Iowa. He completed his undergraduate studies at Iowa State before taking a job with Corteva for five years and then returning to Iowa State to begin graduate work in 2017.

"I am fortunate to be a graduate student at a time when research and genome editing technologies are progressing at a rate that allowed me to put all of the pieces together into a functional and reproducible transformation method," he said.

More information: Jacob D. Zobrist et al, Transformation of Teosinte (Zea mays ssp. parviglumis) via Biolistic Bombardment of Seedling-Derived Callus Tissues, Frontiers in Plant Science (2021). Journal information: Frontiers in Plant Science Jacob D. Zobrist et al, Transformation of Teosinte (Zea mays ssp. parviglumis) via Biolistic Bombardment of Seedling-Derived Callus Tissues,(2021). DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.773419
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, Japan maintains order and unity. This is made possible not only by the Japanese but foreigners who have integrated themselves into the local society. Known as "Essential Foreigners," they are indispensable partners of the natives. Mohamad Yusup works as a nurse at Kawakita General Hospital in Suginami, Tokyo, who moved to Japan from Jakarta, Indonesia. Mohamad Yusup, Indonesian living in Tokyo, said, "I have gained a great amount of knowledge studying in Japan. When I move back to Indonesia, I hope to share what I've learned with the local nurses and hopefully bridge the two countries." Miki Tamura, Kawakita General Hospital, said, "He's able to accurately handle various situations and has a positive attitude towards studying nursing. He's also honest and gentle and is greatly trusted by patients." "Even living in Japan, Yusup adheres to his religious teachings - be it the food or prayers. He studied the Japanese language and passed the national qualification exam, which was crucial to invite his family over. It was his strong wish to live with his family that motivated him to succeed. His job as a nurse has helped him gain trust and live with his loving family. Yusup is living a truly fulfilling life in Japan." Nguyen Thi My Loan came to Japan from Vietnam at the end of 2008 to work for Mishow, a clothing manufacturer in Tokyo. Her main job is working on the sewing machine and iron clothes. Since coming to Japan, she has studied katakana, kanji, and hiragana every day, thinking about how she can improve on her own. Nguyen Thi My Loan, Vietnamese, said, "When I first came to Japan, the language was very difficult, but I never gave up studying. Now I've gotten used to my job and I've adapted to life here." A truly wonderful surprise and reward; she has passed the second grade of a private Japanese examination. Her hard work has paid off in the form of an honorable award. Hiroko Sudo, Mishow, said, "People who don't know the Japanese language work at this company, so she acts as an interpreter for other Vietnamese employees. She is young, but the Japanese employees trust her greatly." The difference in the customs and lifestyle here was confusing for her at first, but her Japanese and Vietnamese friends have helped her keep on. Vietnamese Friend said, "She is a very pleasant, humorous, and enthusiastic person." Nguyen Thi My Loan, Vietnamese, said, "Japan is full of valuable experiences, so I highly suggest coming here." Integrated foreigners who have overcome differences in tradition and lifestyle uphold Japanese society. Japan will continue to accept and nurture these "Essential Foreigners." (ANI)
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tej Pratap Yadav said on Thursday Janata Dal (United) leader Upendra Kushwaha can join his party if he is dissatisfied with the Union Budget 2022-23. His remarks come after the leader had termed the Union Budget 2022-23 as 'disappointing' for Bihar. The Union Budget is historic for developed states, but disappointing for Bihar. Finance Minister @nsitharaman has disappointed all of us Biharis by ignoring the demand for special status to Bihar," he had tweeted. "Upendra Kushwaha is welcome to join RJD if he is disappointed. And even Nitish Kumar can form a coalition with RJD, we are ready," said Yadav while talking to media. Yadav said that he is in contact with Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) leader Mukesh Sahni, adding that he will join RJD soon. "Even Jitan Ram Manjhi, Upendra Kushwaha will join in coming days," he added. He slammed the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)-led government in the state, which he said pushed the state into darkness. "The double-engine government has pushed Bihar into darkness. The graph of education has gone down in the state. They had promised to give employment but they failed to provide it. Bihar government has ruined the teachers and the state of education in the state is poor. Businessmen are getting murdered," he said. Talking about the demand for special status for the state, he said that the demand is not new and RJD has been in support of the special status of the state since the beginning. "When my mother was the Chief Minister, even that time the demand for special status was raised," he added. On the upcoming meeting of the national executive of the party, he said that a lot of important persons related to party organisation would be present. However, he did not confirm the participation of the RJD President and former CM Lalu Prasad Yadav in the meeting. Yadav rubbished the talks of Tejashwi Yadav being made the party president, saying that Lalu Prasad Yadav will remain as the president as he had run the party well. (ANI)
Sam Haycock lost his life after leaping into a freezing reservoir after losing a game of rock, paper, scissors. (Just Giving)

A teenager who drowned in a freezing cold reservoir had jumped in as a dare after losing a game of rock, paper, scissors, an inquest has heard.

Sam Haycock, 16, from Rotherham, was at Ulley Reservoir with friends celebrating the end of term in May last year and the group had been egging each other on as to who was to make the first jump into the water, an inquest at Doncaster Coroners Court was told.

In the end the group of boys, none of whom were strong swimmers, agreed for two of them to play rock, paper, scissors to decide who would go first  and Sam lost.

Sam had only recently been diagnosed with autism and other complex medical problems and was unable to swim.

He jumped in but immediately his friends could see he was panicking and one of them, identified only as C, leapt in and tried to save him.

Sam Haycock had only recently been diagnosed with autism and other complex medical problems. (Reach)

One of several adults who were there at the time, Craig Pennington, said: "I could hear what sounded like young lads laughing and joking around.

"I could see four teenage boys, it sounded like they were getting more excitable. It appeared like they were egging each other to jump into the water.

"One of the teenagers then started shouting: 'Help me, help me'. I went to see what was happening not realising the urgency until I got next to the side of the bridge. It all happened so quickly."

Mr Pennington added: "We assisted the teenager hanging onto the bridge, ('C'), and between us we managed to get him out of the water.

A firefighter leapt in to try to find Sam Haycock from Ulley Reservoir. (Reach)

"He kept saying: 'Where's my mate, where's my mate?'"

Another man, Conna Lee King added: "I heard one of the teenage voices shouting: 'I'm drowning, I'm drowning.

He said he was about 30 metres from the bridge and ran towards it, adding that he helped haul 'C' out.

Mr King said: "He asked me to go back in for his mate.

"I replied saying I would go in but I couldn't swim. It all happened so fast."

A 999 call saw the emergency services arrive at the scene and a firefighter leapt in to try to find Sam but by then it was too late and his body was recovered later.

Sam Haycock was unable to swim. (Reach)

The court heard a throw line was unsuccessfully used to try to rescue Sam.

Kevin Burke, countryside and ecology manager for Rotherham Council, said floating rings were not available due to antisocial people using them for swimming.

Burke said the antisocial behaviour was a "disgrace" but he had been working with Sam's father Simon on Operation Keep Safe to improve safety standards around the reservoir.

Senior coroner Nichola Mundy concluded that Sam died from drowning and his death was an accident and criticised the behaviour of antisocial people who visit the area who derail the equipment for their own amusement, saying this put lives at risk.

A Just Giving page has been set up in Sams name to raise money for life-saving water equipment.
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Pictured: Consultant psychiatrist Dr Gary Jenkins, 54, was 'viciously attacked and tortured' in Bute Park, Cardiff

Chilling CCTV footage caught the moment two thugs and a 'sadistic' teenage girl laughed and hugged after murdering a father-of-two psychiatrist in a sickening 'homophobic attack' in a park.

Jason Edwards, 25, Lee Strickland, 36, and Dionne Timms-Williams, 17 - who can now be named for the first time - were convicted of the murder of Dr Gary Jenkins after an eight-day trial at Merthyr Crown Court in South Wales.

Prosecutors said they had been 'motivated by greed, homophobia and straight-up violence'.

Timms-Williams was laughing as she punched and kicked father-of-two Dr Jenkins, 54, during the brutal robbery in Bute Park, in the shadow of Cardiff Castle, on July 20 last year.

The girl, who was just 16 at the time, egged on her fellow killers and was heard saying, 'Yeah, I needed that' as Dr Jenkins lay dying.

Disturbing audio captured the moment the trio started encouraging one another as they screamed 'stamp on his head' and 'keep going' during the 15-minute onslaught.

Timms-Williams can be heard saying 'Get down', 'Do it all over again', 'Do it' and 'Hit him again' as a male voice says: 'Stamp on his head. Stamp on his head too.' Another says 'Keep going' and 'Oh, let me stamp on him again'.

The psychiatrist screamed 'get off me' and 'please stop' as he repeatedly asked why his attackers had targeted him, humiliating him further as they pulled down his blood-soaked trousers to expose his penis.

Edwards and Strickland were also caught on CCTV laughing in the wake of the attack after they stole Dr Jenkins' card to buy alcohol.

Dionne, who lived with her company director mother in the Vale of Glamorgan village of Creigiau, was known to have been in a same-sex relationship herself - leaving neighbours baffled when asked about the homophobic attack.

Dr Jenkins had visited Bute Park that night 'looking for sexual contact with other men', and the three defendants were looking to rob 'vulnerable gay men who were in the park for sex', Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court was previously told.

The respected psychiatrist was seen on CCTV footage around the area walking through the area before Timms-Williams, Edwards and Strickland all met for the first time on nearby park benches.

After they finished robbing and beating the father-of-two, his attackers used his bank card to purchase alcohol at a nearby Esso Garage, before Edwards and Strickland were seen on CCTV taking a drunken ride through the city on a rented scooter.

Jurors watched key moments of the evening's horrifying attack during the trial, including a bodycam clip of Strickland's arrest and Timms-Williams' police interview in which she declined to comment.

The court heard Dr Jenkins suffered an 'unsurvivable brain injury' after he was 'beaten, tortured and left for dead' and sadly died at the University Hospital of Wales two weeks later on August 5.

All three defendants were today found guilty of Mr Jenkins' murder following an eight-day trial, after initially admitting to manslaughter charges, and will be sentenced at the end of March.

Edwards and Strickland were kicked out of the court room after they appeared to laugh and joke with one another in the dock as their guilty verdicts were returned.

Dione Timms-Williams, then 16, gave a prepared statement to South Wales Police to say she had only met the pair on the night, had been forced to join in on the attack and was left 'traumatised' by their actions

Dionne (left), who lived with her company director mother Lisa Timms (right) in the Vale of Glamorgan village of Creigiau, was known to have been in a same-sex relationship herself - leaving neighbours baffled when asked about the homophobic attack

Jason Edwards, 25, left, Lee Strickland, 36, right, had admitted manslaughter, robbery and assault occasioning actual bodily harm but denied murder as they face trial at Merthyr Crown Court

Pictured: CCTV footage released from that night shows Timms-Williams (left) being offered a can of cider as she first meets Jason Edwards, 25 (centre) and Lee Strickland, 36, near Bute Park in the early hours of the morning before the fatal attack

Pictured: In the moments after the attack, Strickland and Edwards were pictured laughing and hugging each other (far right)

'She was just an ordinary young girl': Neighbours shocked by teenage killer Dionne Timms-Williams Schoolgirl Dionne Timms-Williams lived with her company director mother Lisa Timms in the Vale of Glamorgan village of Creigiau. The killer, who was 16 at the time and was a keen horse rider, was known to have been in a same-sex relationship herself - leaving neighbours baffled when asked about the homophobic attack. Reacting to the killing, one neighbour said: 'Before lockdown she was just an ordinary young girl - now she has killed someone in the most horrible of ways. 'Her family will be horrified. They always seemed so nice and normal.' Audio played to the court showed the teenager was a willing participant in the violent attack and egged her co-defendants on during the vicious robbery, with one witness calling her 'evil' and 'sadistic'. After the attack, CCTV showed Timms-Williams and Edwards hugging and kissing each other for a number of minutes before they separated. Timms-Williams left Edwards and fellow killer Strickland following the attack to calmly walk to a petrol station to charge her phone. She received a text message from her mum Lisa at 2.02am asking: 'Do you want picking up? xx' before she replied: 'No I'm okay thanks.' The court heard the teenage killer went to stay at a friend's house after leaving Dr Jenkins unconscious near the Summerhouse Cafe. She stayed up 'chatting about general stuff' before going to bed and returning to her village home the following day. The girl, now 17, is not believed to have known either Edward nor Strickland before that night. Advertisement

Timms-Williams met her accomplices earlier that night, having not been known to each other prior to the attack.

After meeting them in Queen Street and accepting a can of cider, Timms-Williams walked with Strickland and Edwards to the Esso garage in Cathedral Road, where she paid for more cans of alcohol.

The trio then entered Bute Park and spent time in the seating area outside the Summerhouse Cafe, opposite the Millennium Bridge.

A key part of the prosecution's evidence was an audio recording of the attack taken from a CCTV camera located inside the cafe.

Before the clip was played, members of the jury and others in the courtroom were warned about its disturbing content, which gave an account of how Dr Jenkins was 'cruelly beaten, robbed, tortured and left for dead'.

Beginning just before 1am, a man identified as Dr Jenkins can be heard repeatedly yelling 'Leave me alone' and 'Get off me'.

A female voice - Timms-Williams - shouts 'Money' and 'Now', before homophobic slurs are used by one of the male defendants, believed to be Edwards, who has a Liverpool accent.

Dr Jenkins makes repeated pleas for his life, asking 'Why?' and saying 'Please, stop it'. His moans of pain become quieter before he is unable to speak any more.

Timms-Williams can be heard saying 'Get down', 'Do it all over again', 'Do it' and 'Hit him again'.

Another male voice at one point says: 'Stamp on his head. Stamp on his head too.' Another says 'Keep going' and 'Oh, let me stamp on him again'.

The attack lasts for 15 minutes, after which Timms-Williams can be heard saying: 'Yeah, I needed that.'

Timms-Williams claimed in court that she took part in the attack alongside strangers Jason Edwards, 25, and Lee Strickland, 36, because she was 'scared for her life' if she did not join in.

But she went out 'to target somebody for robbery and violence' in the early hours of the morning on July 20 last year, the court heard.

Reacting to the killing, one neighbour said: 'Before lockdown she was just an ordinary young girl - now she has killed someone in the most horrible of ways.

'Her family will be horrified. They always seemed so nice and normal.'

In a statement following the verdict Iestyn Wyn, campaigns, policy and research manager at Stonewall Cymru said: 'Lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer people should be free to go about their lives without fear or restriction, but the tragic death of Dr Jenkins is reminder of the hate our communities face for simply existing.

'Remarks made during the trial have further eroded the trust that our communities have in our justice system - where four in five (81%) of LGBTQ+ people already do not report hate incidents to the police.

'As people across the UK mourn the heart breaking loss of Dr Jenkins, the Government must take urgent action to challenge anti-LGBTQ+ attitudes and ensure all our communities are safe and free.'

When opening his case for the prosecution, Mr Enoch said Dr Jenkins 'sexual proclivities were to be his undoing'.

Dionne Timms-Williams, 17, (pictured) has today been named as the teenager who was laughing as she punched and kicked father-of-two psychiatrist Dr Gary Jenkins to death in a Cardiff park. She is said to have had a passion for horses (right)

Dr Gary Jenkins was in Bute Park when he was set upon by Jason Edwards, 25, Lee William Strickland, 36, and Timms-Williams

Evidence: Dr Gary Jenkins was pictured using the payment card which was later stolen and used by Strickland to buy alcohol

He added: 'By engaging in that activity he rendered himself hopelessly vulnerable and was an easy target as he wandered about Bute Park. By its nature the activity he engaged in was risky.'

The Crown Prosecution Service later issued an apology for what it described as 'insensitive remarks'.

After the verdict was reached, Gary's family issued a statement, describing him as a 'kind soul who would never hurt anyone'.

They added: 'Gary was such a kind soul who would never hurt anyone. He was an incredibly generous and creative man who had only good intentions.

'Gary's private life, being put on display through a Crown Court trial has only intensified the impact of this event on our family, friends and colleagues.

'It has been horrible to have to listen to the details of what happened.

'Gary's untimely death has also had an impact on his patients. Gary was one of the most humane, kind, compassionate doctors one could ever come across.

'He spent most of his working life in the NHS.

'We cannot bring Gary back. There are no winners in this case, only losers but as a family we are relieved that justice is done.

'As a family we would like to thank both the police for their efforts in bringing justice and the 2 main witnesses in this trial, Mr Hill and Mr Williams for their extraordinary bravery and efforts to help Gary.

'They are good Samaritans and we are eternally grateful to them and will never forget what they did to help.'

Witness Louis Williams could be heard throughout the disturbing audio recording, attempting to intervene, before the three defendants turn and assault him.

CCTV footage captured a 15-minute audio recording of the attack while Dr Jenkins pleaded for help. Timms-Williams can be heard shouting 'do it' in the chilling footage while also calling Dr Jenkins a 'f***ing pig' before leaving him for dead in a park

Timms-Williams lived at home (white house, pictured centre) in the commuter village of Creigiau near Cardiff with her mother

Pictured: Lee Strickland, 36, (pictured) was found guilty of Dr Jenkins' murder following an eight-day trial

He told police that he attempted to lie on top of Dr Jenkins to shield him from the repeated kicks and punches.

Mr Williams said the three defendants laughed and shouted as they carried out the violence, and he thought Timms-Williams was 'evil' and 'sadistic'.

'I couldn't understand why they were hurting him so much,' he said.

During the trial, the jury heard Timms-Williams - who has a passion for horse riding - was seen wearing black knee-high socks as she headed to Bute Park near Cardiff Castle where she met Strickland and Edwards.

She was recorded before the attack saying: 'If we're going to stay in f***** Bute Park, can we at least go and steal?'

It is believed she did not know her two fellow killers before that night when they launched the vicious assault on Dr Jenkins.

Following the attack, Strickland could be seen on CCTV footage heading back to the Esso garage where he bought a bottle of whiskey using Dr Jenkins' Santander debit card.

Timms-Williams and Edwards emerged from the North Road entrance and hugged and kissed each other for a number of minutes before they separated.

Edwards is seen walking back into the city centre and meeting up with Strickland, where they embrace and both appear to be smiling.

Timms-Williams who was just 16 at the time, was later arrested by police alongside Mr Edwards and Mr Strickland for the attack on Dr Jenkins.

The trio had admitted manslaughter, robbery and assault occasioning actual bodily harm but denied murder.

The teenager gave a prepared statement to police to say she had only met the pair on the night and was 'traumatised' by their actions.

Strickland (pictured above) was caught using Dr Jenkins' stolen card to purchase alcohol from an Esso garage later that night

Consultant psychiatrist Dr Gary Jenkins, 54, was 'viciously attacked and tortured' in Bute Park, Cardiff (pictured), in the early hours of July 20 last year and died of his injuries 16 days later

Pictured: Jason Edwards rests his head on the desk as he is being interviewed by police whilst in custody in Bridgend

Psychiatrist's murder a reminder of 'hate communities face for simply existing' The homophobic murder of a father-of-two in a Cardiff park is a reminder of the hatred faced by the gay community for 'simply existing', a gay rights charity has said. Stonewall Cymru said more needed to be done to tackle homophobia and raised concerns about comments made by the prosecution during a week-long trial at Merthyr Crown Court. Dr Gary Jenkins, a respected consultant psychiatrist, was attacked by three people in Bute Park in the early hours of July 20 2021. His injuries, which included multiple head fractures, were so serious he died 16 days later in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the University Hospital of Wales. Three people, Jason Edwards 25, Lee Strickland, 36, and Dionne Timms-Williams, 17, were convicted of his murder on Thursday. But prosecutor Dafydd Enoch QC's remarks attracted public criticism. During his opening speech Mr Enoch told the jury: '(Dr Jenkins') sexual predilections would be his undoing. 'By engaging in that activity he rendered himself hopelessly vulnerable and he was an easy target as he wandered around Bute Park. By its nature the activity he engaged in was risky.' In a statement following the verdict Iestyn Wyn, campaigns, policy and research manager at Stonewall Cymru said: 'Lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer people should be free to go about their lives without fear or restriction, but the tragic death of Dr Jenkins is reminder of the hate our communities face for simply existing. 'Remarks made during the trial have further eroded the trust that our communities have in our justice system - where four in five (81 per cent) of LGBTQ+ people already do not report hate incidents to the police. 'As people across the UK mourn the heart breaking loss of Dr Jenkins, the Government must take urgent action to challenge anti-LGBTQ+ attitudes and ensure all our communities are safe and free.' A Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) spokesperson said: 'The only people responsible for this horrific crime were those convicted today by the jury. The suggestion that Dr Jenkins was in any way to blame is completely wrong. 'We apologise for inappropriate and insensitive remarks made during the opening statement.' Advertisement

She said: 'I saw one of the males throwing a punch. I saw him fall to the floor. They were both kicking and punching.

'They said 'come on2, for me to join in. I was terrified and scared for my life. I thought if I didn't do what he wanted I would die. I couldn't believe what was going on.

'I have never been in the city centre at night on my own. I have never witnessed anything like that in my life.'

The court heard the teenager admitted hitting Dr Jenkins once and claimed she kicked him 'a few times' but insisted 'they were not hard kicks'.

Timms-Williams said she had met the two men during the night after Edwards introduced himself as 'Scouse' and gave her two cans of cider.

She said: 'I did not think Dr Gary Jenkins would be seriously injured.

'I was too scared to call for help for him. I think they will hunt me down and hurt me or my family. I feared I would be attacked immediately if I tried to get away.'

When questioned by police, Edwards denied being in Bute Park that night but did say he thought of it as a 'dirty park' because gay men congregate there.

Edwards told detectives: 'I was not in this f****** dirty park. So, listen to my words now, yeah, I've listened to your words, I was not there, yeah, I was not there. I was in my friend's place, like I told you.'

A detective asked Edwards why it was a 'dirty park' and he replied: 'A dirty park? Well, what do you say happens in there?

'So why I am going to put myself, a straight person, walk through a gay park at night time?'

A detective asked Edwards: 'You said it makes you feel uncomfortable?'

He replied: 'It does make me feel uncomfortable, yeah, of course it does. In my eyes it is dirty.'

Dr Jenkins' blood was later found on one of Edwards' black Fila trainers.

Strickland, who was stopped by plain clothes police the same night, was found to have cut knuckles and his blood was discovered inside the pocket of Dr Jenkins' jeans.

Following the verdict, Mr Enoch told the jury that a piece of evidence which had not been put before them was a statement from Strickland's ex-girlfriend saying he had targeted gay men in the park regularly.

The clothes worn by Timms-Williams that night were never found, with the prosecution claiming she was 'forensically aware' and saying she intentionally got rid of them to avoid DNA evidence being found.

Thomas Edwards, Senior Crown Prosecutor with the CPS said: 'The level of violence from all three defendants was truly shocking, with the evidence showing that they appeared to enjoy the cruelty of what they were doing.

'Throughout the court process our thoughts have remained with the family and friends of Dr Jenkins, who is so clearly missed.'

The trio will be sentenced at Newport Crown Court on March 25.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Stuart Wales said: 'Dr Gary Jenkins was a much-loved father, husband, brother and friend.

'Professionally, he had a successful medical career as a Consultant Psychiatrist and was highly-respected for the expert care and support he provided to his many patients.

'The attack upon Dr Jenkins by the three defendants was cowardly and senseless in the extreme.

'The degree and duration of unnecessary violence inflicted upon him, together with Homophobic abuse - all captured on audio, was both sickening and staggering - He did nothing whatsoever to warrant this.

'Nothing will fill the void in the lives of those who loved Gary and have suffered the heartbreak of losing him in the most devastating circumstances.

'We welcome the verdicts at court today and while we hope that in time Gary's family can rebuild their lives, we know he will always be close in their thoughts. '
New Delhi: At least seven soldiers and 13 insurgents were killed in two separate encounters in the Pakistani province of Balochistan, as per Reuters report.

Security forces' camps in Panjgur and Naushki areas of the southwestern province were attacked by terrorists on Wednesday night. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) group has claimed responsibility saying its suicide bombers had detonated explosive-laden vehicles at the entrance of the military bases killing more than 50 soldiers, the news agency reported. "Our armed forces repulsed the big attacks," Minister of Interior Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said in a video.

Earlier, Rasheed Ahmad had said that four soldiers and 15 insurgents died in the attack. However, Pakistani army in a statement later said a total of seven soldiers and 13 insurgents were killed.

These attacks come hours before Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan left for the opening of the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing.

Imran Khan paid tribute to the security forces for repulsing terrorist attacks and acknowledged their "great sacrifices".

"We salute our brave security forces who repulsed terrorist attacks against security forces' camps in Panjgur and Naushki, Balochistan. The nation stands united behind our security forces who continue to give great sacrifices to protect us," PTI quoted him as saying.

This is the sceond major attack after last week the insurgents killed 10 soldiers in an attack on a post near the port of Gwadar on the Arabian Sea. This was the heaviest casualty toll for the Pakistan army in the Balochistan insurgency in years.

(With agency inputs)

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Findings Announced From UK Study That Purposefully Infected Participants With COVID-19

COVID-19 symptoms develop more quickly than most experts thought, according to the first findings from a study that purposefully infected volunteers with the disease.

Participants experienced symptoms on average two days after contact with the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, which causes COVID-19, the study found.

Detection of the virus in infected individuals came initially by using throat swabs, about 40 hours after contact, researchers said. Detection in the nose came about 58 hours post-contact.

Viral loads increased rapidly following detection, peaking about six days following contact with the virus.

Many health bodies around the world, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, say symptoms can develop in two days but also describe a window that can last as long as 14 days following exposure to the illness.

The 36 participants in the study were aged 18 to 29 and had no evidence of previous infection or vaccination.

Half became infected and all but two of those showed symptoms.

Symptoms included loss of smell, which lingered in three participants past 90 days.

No serious adverse events were recorded and no lung issues were detected.

Participants were deliberately infected, but with an amount of virus described as the lowest possible dose to cause infection. The amount was roughly the same as that found in a droplet of nasal fluid when volunteers had peak viral load. The virus was wild-type, pre Alpha.

The human challenge trial was performed at Royal Free Hospital in London by British researchers, including some from Imperial College London, with government backing.

Results were published as a preprint, or prior to peer review, on the Research Gate website.

Our study reveals some very interesting clinical insights, particularly around the short incubation period of the virus, extremely high viral shedding from the nose, as well as the utility of lateral flow tests, with potential implications for public health, Christopher Chiu, professor at the Institute of Infection at Imperial College London, said in a statement.

The trial has already provided some fascinating new insights into SARS-CoV2 infection, but perhaps its greatest contribution is to open up a new way to study the infection and the immune responses to it in great detail and help test new vaccines and treatments, Dr. Michael Jacobs, consultant in infectious diseases at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, one of the collaborating institutions, added.

SARS-CoV-2 is another name for the CCP virus.

Lawrence Young, a virologist and professor of molecular oncology at the Warwick Medical School, who was not involved with the study, said the groundbreaking study reinforces observations from previous studies of natural infection confirming rapid onset of upper respiratory tract infection after 2 days but shows that high levels of virus are produced in the throat before being detected in the nose.
Russia says it is shutting down the operations of Deutsche Welle (DW) in response to the closure of Russia's state-controlled RT DE earlier this week, a move the German broadcaster called "absurd" as it vowed to continue broadcasting.

The Foreign Ministry in Moscow said in a statement on February 3 that it was canceling the accreditation of all staff at DW's Russian bureau, as well as halting all broadcasts by the media outlet on Russian territory. It added that these were the "first stage" of measures aimed at the German company, with the following steps "to be published in a timely manner."

The statement also said that measures will be initiated to start a procedure to officially label DW as a "foreign agent" and to bar German officials and other individuals involved in the decision to ban RT's broadcasting in Germany from entering Russia.

Deutsche Welle said it was being made a pawn "in a way that media only have to experience in autocracies."

"We formally protest against this absurd reaction of the Russian government and will take legal action," Deutsche Welle Director Peter Limbourg said in a statement.

The announcement came a day after a German media regulatory panel ruled that RT DE must cease broadcasting its German-language programs in the country, reaffirming a ruling in December that said RT lacks the necessary license.

It also comes amid rising tensions between the West and Moscow over Russia's buildup of tens of thousands of troops in areas around the border with Ukraine. Germany, among many countries, has called on the Kremlin to de-escalate the situation by pulling its soliders and hardware back from the border.

Though Moscow denies any ill intent saying it can place its troops anywhere it likes on Russian soil, many fear the amassing of so much military might along the border could be a prelude to a new incursion into Ukraine by Russia.

Hours before the statement on Deutsche Welle, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called the German decision to ban RT broadcasting in Germany "nothing but an infringement on freedom of speech."

Also on February 3, Russias envoy at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Aleksandr Lukashevich asked the OSCE representative on freedom of the media, Teresa Ribeiro, to react to what he called "this egregious situation."

German media regulators opened proceedings after RT claimed a license it holds in Serbia for satellite transmission gives it the right to broadcast in Germany under a Council of Europe agreement to which both countries are party.

The commissions ruling on February 2 said RT DE needed a license that conformed with Germany's State Media Treaty, and that RT could not replace it with a different license. The commission said transmission of RT DE was "prohibited because it does not have the necessary broadcasting license."

Launched in 2005 as Russia Today, state-funded RT has continually expanded its broadcasts and websites in languages including English, French, Spanish, and Arabic.

The channel has been banned in several countries, including the ex-Soviet republics, now EU and NATO member-states, Lithuania and Latvia.

In the United states, it was required to register as a foreign agent, and British authorities have threatened to revoke its broadcasting license.

DW, a German state-owned broadcaster, has its service available in 30 languages, including Russian.

With reporting by TASS, Interfax, and RIA Novosti
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on UN Security Council members to stand up to Russian President Vladimir Putin, warning that the Kremlin leaders invasion of Ukraine and attempts to annex more of its territory was threatening to destroy the international order.

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's ongoing invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, Russian protests, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

Putin is pushing four Kremlin-controlled territories of Ukraine to hold disputed votes for annexation into the Russian Federation beginning on September 23 amid the biggest conflict in Europe since World War II.

The very international order that we have gathered here to uphold is being shredded before our eyes. We cannot -- we will not -- allow President Putin to get away with it, Blinken said on September 22 in New York.

Blinken said international support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity is about protecting an international order, where no nation can redraw the borders of another by force.

If we fail to defend this principle, when the Kremlin is so flagrantly violating it, we send a message to aggressors everywhere that they can ignore it, too. We put every country at risk, he said.

He said Putin was violently uprooting thousands of Ukrainians and busing in Russian citizens to manipulate the results of this week's vote on annexation, calling it a diabolical strategy.

The top U.S. diplomat also told the Security Council there is mounting proof of Russian war crimes in Ukraine and said he supported international efforts to collect and examine the evidence.

He described the violence as a pattern of behavior by Russian soldiers and not isolated acts of rogue units.

The UN must hold the perpetrators accountable for these crimes, he said.



UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan were set to brief the 15-member Security Council on investigations into possible war crimes in Ukraine.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and representatives from several EU states and Belarus were expected to speak.

Ukraine's chief war crimes prosecutor is reportedly investigating nearly 26,000 suspected war crimes since Russia's invasion in February. Ukraine has charged 135 people with war crimes and officials have recently said they uncovered fresh mass graves containing bodies, some with their hands tied behind their backs, when Ukrainian forces retook the eastern Ukrainian city of Izyum during a major counteroffensive.

Russia has denied targeting civilians during what it calls its "special military operation," describing accusations of human rights abuses as a smear campaign.

The September 22 meeting marks the 20th time the Security Council has met to discuss the war in Ukraine this year. But despite Russia's unprovoked invasion and subsequent accusations that its forces have committed war crimes, the Security Council has been unable to take any meaningful action against Moscow because of Russia's veto powers as one of the five permanent members of the body.

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy has called for Russia to be stripped of its veto rights.

In a prerecorded message to the General Assembly on September 21, Zelenskiy demanded that a special United Nations tribunal impose "just punishment" on Russia for its invasion.

Earlier the same day, U.S. President Joe Biden said Moscow "shamelessly violated the core tenets" of the UN Charter with its "brutal, needless war."

China, which has friendly relations with Moscow and also holds veto powers as a permanent member of the Security Council, will also be represented at the September 22 meeting.

During a discussion on the sidelines of the General Assembly on September 21, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Lavrov that his country would maintain an "objective" and "fair" position regarding the war in Ukraine, which is one of China's biggest trading partners.

The same day, China called for a "cease-fire through dialogue" and for all countries' "territorial integrity" to be respected.

The comments from Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin came after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a partial military mobilization to bolster its forces in Ukraine.

Putin's decree followed the September 20 announcement that Russian-occupied regions in eastern and southern Ukraine plan to hold votes on being incorporated into Russia.

The move to hold the referendums, which contradict international law and the UN Charter and which Western countries have already refused to recognize, are to begin on September 23 in Ukraine's Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya regions. All of the regions are partially controlled by Russian forces and are areas where Moscow has recently lost territorial gains.

Parts of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions, which collectively make up Ukraine's eastern Donbas region, have been under Russian-imposed administration since Moscow-backed separatist forces began fighting against Kyiv in 2014.

Putin has said his aim is to "liberate" Ukraine's eastern Donbas region, claiming without providing any proof that most people in the region did not want to return to what he called the "yoke" of Ukraine.

With reporting by Reuters and AFP
Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno state, expressed concerns over the increasing strength of the Islamic State in West African Province (IS...

Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno state, expressed concerns over the increasing strength of the Islamic State in West African Province (ISWAP).

The governor spoke on Thursday while briefing journalists on the state on internal security, relocation of IDPs and collaborations between the state and the federal government at the state house in Abuja.

Zulum had in January warned that if nothing was done about the operations of ISWAP in Borno, it may be bad not only for people of the north-east, but the entire nation at large.

Speaking on Thursday, he said the military needs to restategise on how it will defeat ISWAP, adding that the group will wreak more havoc than Boko Haram did if it is allowed to grow.

Ive said it before that the growing number of ISWAP in some parts of the state is a matter of great concern to everybody. Where? In the shores of the Lake Chad and in Southern Borno. Luckily, I was told there was military deployment to southern Borno yesterday to fight the insurgency. But I think this is an early warning system, Zulum said.

We shouldnt allow ISWAP to grow. ISWAP is more funded, sophisticated and educated, and we shall do everything possible to defeat ISWAP otherwise, what Boko Haram did will be childs play.

The Nigerian Army has to restrategise and defeat ISWAP. ISWAP will be a threat to the entire nation because of the fragility of the south Saharan Africa.

The governor thanked the federal government for its support in helping to restore peace and normalcy in certain areas of the state.

He listed the return of IDPs, reduction in number of bombing incidents, reopening of major markets and roads, provision of functioning healthcare facilities, improved access to education, as some of the feats recorded by his administration.

Zulum said his statement on the state of two LGAs in Borno was misinterpreted.

He clarified that he meant the LGAs are not occupied by human population, not that they are under Boko Haram.

It means the capacity is not there to protect the human population in these LGAs. We are not saying that these LGAs are under the control of Boko Haram. We need the support of the federal government to see to the relocation of people to these LGAs, he said.

He asked the federal government to rethink and look into the possibility of hiring mercenaries, saying there is nothing wrong in seeking external support.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Libyan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Najla al-Mangouch, has made a proposal to address the country's financial arrears to the African Union (AU), which have accumulated for years.

She was speaking at a meeting with the Chadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cherif Mahamat Zein, whose country chairs the ministerial committee for the evaluation of "balance sheets and contributions" to the AU.

The proposal, made at the meeting on the sidelines of the 40th ordinary session of the Executive Council of the African Union, "is to reduce the demands by half while paying the rest of the arrears in a single installment".

A statement issued on Thursday by the Libyan Foreign Ministry said the Chadian minister welcomed the proposal.

The statement said the two sides discussed the issue of the return of the executive secretariat of the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) to the official headquarters of the Assembly in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, and the mechanism to achieve this.

It was agreed to present a proposal to hold an emergency summit in one of the member states at the meeting of the foreign ministers, which will be held in Morocco next March.

In 2019, the CEN-SAD headquarters was moved from Tripoli to N'Djamena, Chad, due to the insecurity that prevailed after the fall of the former regime in the wake of the 17 February revolution.

-0- PANA BY/JSG/BBA/MA 3Feb2022
New Delhi:

All Entry, Exit Gates At Jaffrabad, Maujpur - Babarpur Metro Stations Open

Entry and exit gates at Jafrabad and Maujpur  Babarpur metro station, which were closed in view of violence that ensued following protests over the Citizenship Act, were opened. Earlier, the gates at these metro stations were closed. Entry and exit gates of Jaffrabad and Maujpur - Babarpur stations are closed. However, the interchange facility to continue towards Shiv Vihar is available at Maujpur. Normal service on all other stations and lines, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation had tweeted this morning. Read here

CAA Protests: After Jamia, Delhi's Seelampur Turns Battlefield As Oppn Meets President | 10 Points

In a fresh violence against the Citizenship Amendment Act in New Delhi, angry protesters demanding scrapping of the law torched several motor bikes, pelted stones at police personnel and damaged buses and a police booth in Northeast Delhi's Seelampur area on Tuesday afternoon. Read here

Amid Citizenship Protests Back Home, Rahul Gandhi Visits South Korea, Meets PM Lee Nak-yon

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said he met South Korea Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon during a visit to the country and held discussions on wide-ranging issues. His visit to South Korea came amid protests over the amended citizenship law in India. "As a part of an official delegation, I today met with the PM of the Republic of Korea, His Excellency, Lee Nak-yon and other officials, in Seoul," he tweeted. Read here

If Anybody Destroys Public Property, Shoot Them At Sight, Says Union Minister Suresh Angadi

In a shocking remark, Union Minister of State for Railways on Tuesday told news agency ANI that he has told the district administration and railway authorities concerned that if anybody destroys public property, they can be shot at sight. "I have told the district administration and railway authorities concerned that if anybody destroys public property, they can be shot at sight. I am giving this directive as a Union Minister," Suresh Angadi, the Union Minister of State for Railways, told news agency ANI. Read here

Former Congress MLA Asif Khan Named As Accused In FIR In Jamia Violence: Delhi Police

The Delhi Police on Tuesday said that the former Congress MLA Asif Khan has been named as an accused in the FIR, for involvement in Jamia Millia Islamia incident that took place on 15 December. Kasim Usmani (CYSS Student Wing of AAP), Asif Khan (Former MLA), Chandan Kr (AISA), Asif Tanha (SIO) have also been named in the FIR. Read here

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Signage is seen outside of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) headquarters in White Oak, Md., on Aug. 29, 2020. (Andrew Kelly/Reuters)

FDA Document on Moderna Vaccine Approval Removed From Agencys Website

Update: The document has been restored.

Original story below.

A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) document explaining why the agency approved Modernas COVID-19 vaccine was removed from the agencys website overnight.

The Summary Basis for Regulatory Action offered more details about how regulators reached the approval decision, and included references to an unpublished analysis that found the rates of post-vaccination heart inflammation were higher than any U.S. agency had found before.

After The Epoch Times reviewed the document and sent questions about it to FDA spokespersons, it disappeared from the agencys website.

We are aware of the issue and hope to have the document reposted as soon as possible, a spokesperson told The Epoch Times in an email on Feb. 3.

Reached by phone and asked for more details about the issue, the spokesperson said: I reached out to the website people. I dont really have any more information to tell you.

The Epoch Times has submitted Freedom of Information Act requests for the document and several unpublished analyses referenced in it, including the FDA meta-analysis.

Barbara Loe Fisher, president of the National Vaccine Information Center, a nonprofit that advocates for informed consent, told The Epoch Times in an email that the public has the right to review the evidence FDA is using to license new mRNA vaccines as safe and effective.

Lack of transparency only fosters distrust in government agencies charged with protecting the public health. FDA should immediately release all information related to the incidence of myocarditis and other serious adverse events following mRNA COVID-19 vaccinations, whether that information has been provided to the agency by vaccine manufacturers or discovered through in-house analyses of additional data collected by federal officials, she wrote.

The FDA meta-analysis examined data of four health care claims databases and estimated that, among males aged 18 to 25, the rate of myocarditis following Modernas primary series was 148 per million males vaccinated.

That figure is higher than other government estimates, including a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analysis of reports submitted to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System. The analysis found about 10.7 cases per million males aged 18 to 24 who got Modernas first shot and 56 cases per million among those who received Modernas second shot.

Myocarditis is one type of heart inflammation that people who receive vaccines built on messenger RNA (mRNA) have experienced at higher-than-expected rates. It also occurs among people who contract the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, which causes COVID-19.

Modernas shot, a type of mRNA vaccine, is administered in a two-dose primary series. The doses are administered about a month apart.

The FDA approved Modernas vaccine on Jan. 31 without convening its expert vaccine advisory panel, a growing trend for the agency.

The CDCs vaccine advisory committee is scheduled to meet on Feb. 4 to review data on the jab.

An agenda (pdf) for the meeting says a Moderna scientist will present safety and efficacy data on the companys shot, followed by CDC researchers discussing updates on post-vaccination heart inflammation and the benefit-risk framework in light of the most recent analyzed information.

Researchers in the UK found in December 2021 that men under 40 were much more likely, and females under 40 were more likely, to suffer from heart inflammation after Modernas second shot than from COVID-19 itself.
New Delhi: In India, everyone wants to buy an iPhone. For many, it is a status symbol, and with its pricing, it is difficult to argue. However, India is one of the areas where Apple continues to sell older models since they are less expensive, making them more accessible to a wider audience. For example, when the iPhone 13 was released, the prices of the iPhone 11 series dropped, making them more appealing. However, if you need a better value on an iPhone, buying a used iPhone model is the next best option. Pre-owned iPhones can be found on a variety of channels, as well as through friends who can offer you a decent deal.

It's usually a good idea to double-check whether the iPhone you're buying from someone else is genuine. Inquire about the serial number of the iPhone you want to buy. Sign in with your Apple ID at "https://checkcoverage.apple.com/" on Apple's Check Coverage website. Even if you don't own an Apple device, you can create an Apple ID. After login in, input the serial number to check the purchase date, warranty information, and technical support information.

The website will reveal full information if the iPhone is not stolen and the model is genuine. Don't buy it if you can't discover any information on it.

When physically inspecting the iPhone, be sure that the same serial number appears in the settings menu of the iPhone you wish to buy.

Make sure the previous owner has deleted all data from the iPhone before you acquire it. Also, double-check that the previous owner disabled FindMy service on the iPhone and performed a proper factory reset. Go to Settings - General - Reset - Erase All Content and Settings to get rid of them. After that, you can use the iPhone using your Apple ID and registered information. Also, ensure that the iPhone's owner deletes the device from iCloud.

When you buy a secondhand iPhone, the first owner retains all of the product's bills, receipts, and other information. Make sure the iPhone you buy from the person arrives with all of the papers. Apple does not accept changes to device ownership in billing in the majority of circumstances, but you can still make the necessary changes to ensure Apple recognises your iPhone as yours.

Buyers should also double-check that the iPhone comes with all of its original accessories. The iPhone cable, earpods (wired earbuds), and charging adapter are all included. You can even inquire as to whether the SIM ejector pin is available. But make sure you acquire the essentials. Check the charging station's condition as well.

Used iPhones necessitate a thorough examination of the device's condition. It's impossible to know how the person stored or handled the phone. Check to see if the iPhone has any visible dents, scratches that are difficult to repair, or any other damage to the camera lens. Also, check that the buttons and display are in good working order and that there are no faults that could cause problems later. All of these flaws could cause the device to perform poorly, and the last thing you want is a half-functional iPhone.

Apple is one of the few companies that update its software for older models. People may also check the battery status of their iPhone model with iOS 11.3's battery health checker. The battery health indicator in Settings displays the unit's current status. If it says "Your battery's health has substantially degraded," we recommend passing on the iPhone. Buying an old iPhone with battery health of less than 88 percent to 90 percent is usually a bad idea.

If the iPhone you're buying passes all of these tests with flying colours, you've made the perfect decision.

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If it's Yogi Adityanath for the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, it's Sangeet Singh Som in the critical western region of the poll-bound state, both hardcore Hindutva leaders and both Rajputs. For Som, however, the magic might be waning this time with his brand of communal politics unable to penetrate the mobilisation of caste in the region.

Som, a two-term MLA from the Sardhana Assembly seat in Meerut district, had hit the headlines for his alleged links to the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots.

Muslims, nearly 20 per cent, and Dalits, about 16 per cent, are considered the largest voting groups in the Sardhana constituency. Apart from these two communities, there are Rajputs, Gurjars, Jats, Brahmins and other backward classes in the constituency.

The Dalit vote will be key if Som is to win from the seat again.

He will be contesting against Atul Pradhan, who has been fielded by the Samajwadi Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance, Bahujan Samaj Party's Sanjeev Dhama and Congress' Syed Rehanuddin. Pradhan belongs to the Gujjar community and he has contested and lost against Som in the last two elections.

Also Read  Ahead of polls, Yogi Adityanath highlights development measures in government's report card

The mood in Alipur village of Sardhana tehsil, about 25 kilometres from Meerut, which has a Dalit majority, could hold some answers.

Most villagers believe that a section of the Dalit community voted for Som in the last polls and due to a division of votes, BSP chief Mayawati's political status was reduced. They feel this is not good for the future of their community.

BSP's candidate, Dhama, belongs to the Jat community.

A Dalit panchayat member in the village said, "The candidate doesn't matter much, we have to increase BSP's vote percentage this time."

The panchayat member said that most of the population in the constituency belongs to the Jatav community, who are considered staunch supporters of Mayawati. Other groups among Dalits, like Khatiks, Pasis and Valmikis, are fewer in number. The RLD-backed SP candidate enjoys a lot of support from the Muslim, Jat and Gujjar communities.

The communities that the BJP is getting full support of are Rajputs, Brahmins and Vaishyas. Pals, Kashyaps and Sainis are in sizeable numbers among the OBCs and they are keeping their cards close to their chest.

Also Read  Despite rebuffs, Shah seeks RLD tie-up for UP polls

Rehanuddin of the Congress and Zeeshan Alam of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) are also in the fray, but they are not considered strong contenders.

The village adjacent to Alipur is Muslim-majority Kulanjan. There, some men smoking hookah outside a house were engaged in a discussion but did not want to talk about the upcoming elections.

After much probing, one of them gave an example from Mahabharata and Ramayana and said, "There also only 20 per cent won in the end." He was apparently referring to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's statement of '80 per cent versus 20 per cent'.

The Opposition had alleged that the comment was an attempt at polarisation as the '80-20' reference was pointing to the ratio of Hindus to Muslims in Uttar Pradesh.

An official posted in Sardhana tehsil said that following a controversy over the statements of some Muslim leaders, influential Muslim families have imposed an undeclared restriction on interaction with the media. The leaders of the SP-RLD alliance have been advised to refrain from campaigning in Muslim dominated areas, he said.

Sardhana, which is famous for its 200-year-old Roman Catholic Church, has both people who like Som and others, who dislike him. He was arrested in connection with the Muzaffarnagar riots and since then, he has remained a favourite among some sections for his anti-Muslim statements.

In a press conference in September last year, he had announced that the BJP would rebuild temples wherever mosques had been built by demolishing temples in the state.

Some people in the constituency alleged that after winning elections for the second time, Som stopped meeting people and listening to their problems.

Also Read  Criminals will face 'bulldozer' after UP polls results: Yogi

They said there is some sympathy for Pradhan this time due to his previous loss in elections and added that he is also considered a humble and practical man compared to Som.

Apart from his "strong leader" image in the Hindu community, Som is also benefiting from the popularity of the chief minister. Some people in Sardhana said they were upset with Som's behaviour but would vote for Adityanath, not the BJP, as he has ended "gunda-gardi" in the state.

A section of Dalit and backward classes is also supporting the BJP due to the welfare schemes of the central and state governments. The member of Alipur gram panchayat said that because of this, the Dalit votes have become very important and both Som and Pradhan are trying to woo the community.

However, farmers of the area, irrespective of their community, are refraining from speaking openly in favour of the BJP.

Sardhana's election mood is an indicator of assembly constituencies n Meerut and Muzaffarnagar districts, where the Muslim community is the largest voter segment. According to an estimate, there are 15 districts in western Uttar Pradesh where the number of Muslim voters is more than other communities.

However, young lawyers Shakti Singh and Deepak Tomar, practising in the Meerut District Court, believed that even where the number of Muslim voters is less, the BJP is not benefiting much. The main reason for this, they believe, is the lack of communal polarisation which would have benefitted the BJP and the anger of farmers against the government, irrespective of their caste.

According to them, the BJP would benefit in urban assembly constituencies like Meerut Cantt, where Muslim voters were less and the BJP's supporting class Brahmins, Vaishyas and Rajputs were in good numbers.

Watch the latest DH Videos here:
KEWAUNEE - This time, Laura Hinesh wanted to complete her journey in front of a home crowd, so to speak.

This past Sunday, Hinesh became a Thousand Miler for a second time, which means she hiked the entire Ice Age Trail that winds through Wisconsin. To complete the quest, she hiked an 0.8-mile stretch west of Kewaunee that followed along Sleepy Hollow Road from Pine Grove Road to Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery.

Kewaunee County native Laura Hinesh, center, poses with her parents, Lawrence Krummel, Sr., and Emily Krummel of Stangelville, outside Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery in Kewaunee after Laura completed hiking the entire Ice Age Trail throughout Wisconsin to become a Thousand Miler for a second time.

The first time Hinesh joined the Thousand Miler club, she finished at the eastern terminus of the trail, in Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay, in August of 2020, ending a trek that began in October of 2018.

But for her second thousand miles, she wanted to finish in Kewaunee County, where she was born and raised.

So, besides choosing to finish at Parallel 44  "being a great place to celebrate afterward, at a winery," Hinesh said with a laugh  she also wanted to finish in front of her parents, Lawrence, Sr., and Emily Krummel, who still live on the farm near Stangelville where Laura grew up. Also on hand was her husband, Mike, whose family also is from the area; her brother, Lawrence, Jr.; and her son.

The Ice Age Trail is one of 11 National Scenic Trails in the country. It follows the outline of the most recent glacier that retreated from the state thousands of years ago, winding through 30 counties.

Hiking the entire route actually covers between 1,100 and 1,200 miles, with 680 miles of blazed and marked trail segments and about 500 miles of suggested connecting routes to get from one segment to the next, although hikers can create their own connections. Thousand Milers don't necessarily have to follow the trail from one end to the other in one long adventure, but they have to hike all the segments and hike connections between them to make it count.

If one starts from the trail's western terminus in St. Croix Falls, it heads east to Antigo, then winds south to Janesville, then north-northeast through the Kettle Moraine area to Manitowoc, Mishicot and Tisch Mills.

Story continues

MORE: Pit spitting, hockey, ice carving, toilet seat tossing: Here's four outdoor winter events in Door County

FOR MORE KEWAUNEE COUNTY NEWS: Check out our homepage

From there, the next segment starts in Casco, where it follows the Ahnapee State Trail to Kewaunee, Algoma and on into Door County and Potawatomi State Park. The route Hinesh hiked Sunday was part of her connecting route between the Tisch Mills and Kewaunee County segments.

Those who wish to become a Thousand Miler can register online with the Ice Age Trail Alliance, a nonprofit organization that works with 19 regional chapters to conserve, create, protect and maintain the trail.

It hasn't happened much, and to do it multiple times like Hinesh is rare. According to Melissa Pierick, director of marketing and community relations for the alliance, as of the end of 2021 the thousand-mile adventure has been accomplished 81 times since the first one was registered in 1979, and Hinesh is only the ninth person to have done it more than once.

Kewaunee County native Laura Hinesh kneels at the eastern terminus of the Ice Age Trail in Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay after hiking the more than 1,000 miles of the trail in October of 2020. On Jan. 30, 2022, Hinesh completed the trail for a second time in Kewaunee County.

Hinesh, who now works as an education assistant with students with special needs in the DeForest Area School District near Madison, said she wasn't necessarily planning to hike another 1,000 miles after completing the trek the first time. She said she was inspired to tackle the thousand the first time by her son, who's on the autism spectrum.

"To walk one simple little trail is so much easier than what he deals with every day," Hinesh said. "And he's happy all the time no matter what."

But Hinesh said she kind of stumbled (no pun intended) into doing it again.

"This time, I just started hiking with some friends who needed someone to hike with to finish their (1,000-mile) journeys," Hinesh said. "Before I knew it, I had 600 miles, and I thought, I might as well finish it."

She also made the hike as a fundraiser on her Facebook page for the trail alliance, with $135 raised of her $200 goal.

To Hinesh, it also means a lot because, well, she really enjoyed the hiking. She said the trail segments aren't too difficult and, as a woman, she always felt safe on them.

Plus, she said it was an educational experience. The trail goes into and through a number of communities to give hikers a chance to learn more about them; 13 of them, including Manitowoc/Two Rivers and Sturgeon Bay, are designated by the alliance as Ice Age Trail Communities.

"To complete it a second time just means the world to me. To get more information out there that this trail is not that hard to hike," Hinesh said, "that it makes (others) think, 'I can do it, too.'"

"And it's to know how important this trail is in the state of Wisconsin ... discovering what Wisconsin's all about. When I started, I didn't know half about Wisconsin what I know now."

FYI

For more information on the Ice Age Trail Alliance, visit iceagetrail.org.

Contact Christopher Clough at 920-741-7952, 920-562-8900 or cclough@doorcountyadvocate.com.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Kewaunee County native completes Ice Age Trail hike for a second time
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Resilience Lab, a mental health-tech company enabling communities of clinicians to improve outcomes and access, today announced that New York City Health Business Leaders (NYCHBL), the organization that serves as the gateway to New York's healthcare ecosystem, has recognized the company on its NYC Digital Health 100, showcasing the most exciting and innovative health start-ups in New York.

"It's wonderful to be selected as one of the NYC Digital Health 100, raising our profile among the top healthtech companies in New York, as we continue to build toward our goal of making affordable, high quality mental healthcare accessible to all  including both practitioners and patients," said Marc Goldberg, CEO, Resilience Lab. "By establishing our blueprint for success in New York City we have created the process that will allow us to continue expanding, state-by-state, until we are available nationwide."

"This year, the NYC Digital Health 100 is comprised of an incredibly diverse set of companies and leaders who are working to innovate and solve some of the most complex challenges across all facets of the healthcare ecosystem," said Bunny Ellerin, co-founder and CEO, NYCHBL. "We are delighted to recognize these companies and celebrate and support their growth in the New York area."

Resilience Lab marries diverse team-based care with full-stack technology to improve therapist-client trust, drive down costs, and deliver personalized care at scale. Its smart matching algorithm and dedicated clinical team empower clients to discover and select the therapist that feels right for them, based on logistics, identity and care specialties. Custom treatment paths are rooted in whole-person, evidence-based modalities, and outcomes are measured quantitatively and qualitatively.

The NYC Digital Health 100 was released in conjunction with the NYCHBL Healthcare Innovation Report 2022, an in-depth look at the data, trends and insights that define the healthcare industry in NY. In 2021, 182 companies raised an historic high of $9.0B, a 150% increase from 2020 ($3.6B) and 87% of the investments went to start-ups in areas including virtual care, patient engagement and mental health. To review the report, please visit https://bit.ly/dh100-pr .

NYC Digital Health 100 Methodology

To compile the NYC Digital Health 100, NYCHBL used its dynamic database of digital health companies in the region and then invited companies to complete applications with quantitative and qualitative data to broaden the consideration set. A company qualified for consideration if it maintained headquarters or an office (over 10 people) in the New York region. Companies were judged on a number of factors, including but not limited to: strength of leadership, # of employees, funding (if known), revenue (if known), market fit, differentiated offerings, approach to diversity and equity, and community engagement.

About Resilience Lab

Resilience Lab is a creating a world where communities of clinicians work collaboratively to produce better outcomes and improve mental health access.

Our diverse team of best-in-class therapists are committed to improving clients' care experience throughout their therapeutic journey, by sharing peer insights, treatment plans, and outcome measurements. Technology powers Resilience Lab care delivery, automating all non-clinical work to foster therapeutic alliance and team-based care.

Psychotherapists who join our community-led movement have access to clinical supervision, training, and advanced certification as they provide treatment in a supported environment. Clients who match with Resilience Lab therapists benefit from holistic, evidence-based, high-quality, and affordable care that meets them where they're at, wherever they are.

Together, we are achieving therapeutic excellence at scale.

Join us: www.resiliencelab.us/

SOURCE Resilience Lab
While true Hi-risers are typically full-size, body-on-frame, RWD American cars, one should still note the similarities . This is also a body-on-frame, has increased ground clearance, as well as large-diameter wheels equipped with low-profile tires. Now, let us stop with the inference.This truck does not come with a swaggering appearance, so we are going to spare it the potty-training jokes. Instead, let us focus on the facts and figures. The Los Angeles, California-based forged wheel experts over at Forgiato Designs have highlighted this tall dually ride for us. It is a potentially controversial build, given the 26-inch Forgiato Duro Twisted forged and spiked wheels. One that belongs to Dallas, Texas-based Autoplex Customs.Interestingly, the outlet deals with many custom lifted diesel trucks, so it is quite easy to identify the 2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty dually as a master of the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel way of life. Not that you could have it any other way... Alas, this Platinum is much more than the sum of its parts. Aftermarket ones included.Such as the 5 to 6-inch (12.7 to 15.24 cm) Kelderman front and rear air lift kit. Or the Recon lights, illuminated emblem, RekGen Mudflaps, RK Sport Ram Hood, and Black Out package, among others. Instead, Forgiato would very much appreciate us focusing on their 26-inch forged creations . The ones that have matching black looks. Along with spiked lug nuts, as well as a set of 37-inch tires that seem very low-profile on this hulking apparition.Naturally, the interior also gets a few custom touches. Among them are a Banks Power iDash digital monitor, or a JL Audio package with amp and subwoofers. Even better, this menacing truck has just 2,284 miles (3,677 km on the odometer). And we know that because it was recently put up for grabs from parent company Hurst Autoplex. For exactly $139,995.
PIPERSVILLE, PA, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tyndale Company, Inc., a leading provider of arc-rated, flame resistant (AR / FR) clothing, announced plans to expand into Canada, partnering with Canadian companies to develop and implement solutions to meet Canadian business challenges in the same way we have in the US for 40 years. Tyndale offers the broadest choice of colors, sizes, and garments for men and women with deep inventory levels and technical expertise.

Tyndale's commitment to the Canadian market is anchored in the strong foundation built in the United States. In 1981, Tyndale set the industry benchmark for managed employee apparel programs serving leading corporations and protecting workers from arc-flash and flash-fire hazards. Tyndale provides over 90% of US investor-owned electric utilities and more than 50 Fortune 500 companies with AR / FR clothing and services. Companies with a presence in Canada and the United States seek access to popular brands and services. Tyndale brings its business model north of the border and sets the standard with one of the largest assortments of Canadian- and American-made FR apparel.

Rob Whittenberger, Tyndale's President, notes that Canadian companies will welcome the expanded choice of AR / FR clothing in Canada and the convenience of total program management. He states, "We often hear from customers that they came to Tyndale for the products, but they stay because of the service. We look forward to solving Canadian companies' protective clothing challenges, increasing employee satisfaction, and minimizing risk related to safety and compliance."

Watch the video for more information.

Tyndale Team Canada

Tyndale's Canadian Sales Director, Paul Castelli, leads the introduction of Tyndale's AR / FR turnkey managed apparel programs in the Canadian market. Paul's local presence (Ontario) and years of experience in the AR / FR textile and safety industry make him uniquely qualified to lead the project. Paul stated, "Tyndale's product offering and service model are unequaled in the protective clothing industry. I am proud to be a part of the Tyndale team and excited to help meet the demand of the Canadian market and its workers for more choice and better service."

Courtney Lang was recently promoted to Canada Managing Director and is focused on providing Canadian-based companies with access to Tyndale's leading brands and unsurpassed service. Her MBA, leadership and business development experience enable her to oversee Tyndale's expansion into Canada.

Sara Olsen, with an M.Sc. degree in textile and apparel science from the University of Alberta and 15+ years of experience in the protective clothing industry in Canada, is an integral member of the team as Tyndale's lead technical expert on Canadian safety standards.

Tyndale's Vice President of Technical, Scott Margolin, is working with the team to support the company's venture into Canada. As a global expert on flame resistant clothing, PPE, and thermal hazard issues, Scott's knowledge and Canadian and international experience are invaluable to Tyndale's expansion.

About Tyndale

Tyndale Company, Inc. is a leading supplier of arc-rated, flame resistant (AR/FR) clothing to the utility, oil and gas, manufacturing, and other industries. Established in 1981, Tyndale pioneered the managed purchase program for the AR / FR clothing market and has worked continuously to provide ever-improving product quality and selection, with superior service. Tyndale is a privately held, certified woman-owned business headquartered in Pipersville, PA, with additional distribution operations throughout the United States. For more information, please visit www.TyndaleFR.ca.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Barbara Fitzgeorge

Tyndale Company, Inc.

800.356.3433 ext. 137

bfitzgeorge@tyndaleusa.com

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NEW YORK  A co-defendant in a federal wire fraud and money laundering case involving Miramar Beach wounded warrior Brian Kolfage  and that had involved Steve Bannon, former political strategist for former President Donald Trump  has been denied in his attempt to have his case severed from Kolfage and another co-defendant.

Timothy Shea, along with Kolfage, Bannon and Florida financier Andrew Badolato, was indicted in 2020 by a New York Southern District grand jury on charges that hundreds of thousands of dollars donated to We Build The Wall, Inc., (WBTW)  a nonprofit organization headed by Kolfage to privately fund construction of walls along the U.S.-Mexico border  had been improperly diverted to Shea, Kolfage and Bannon.

Bannon, however, was pardoned by Trump in the final hours of his presidency in January of last year.

Previous coverage of the case: Kolfage says politics, misunderstanding behind fraud conspiracy indictment

Florida charges: Brian Kolfage disputes federal tax fraud indictment

Kolfage is alleged to have gotten $350,000 in the scheme, while $1 million was steered to a separate nonprofit organization controlled by Bannon. According to court documents, Shea also profited from the scheme, as "hundreds of thousands" of dollars in donor funds were steered to a limited liability corporation created by Shea for "social media" work that was not performed.

Shea, a Colorado businessman whose enterprises include the energy drink "Winning Energy," advertised as including "liberal tears," had argued in a Nov. 15 motion that the highly public profiles of Bannon and Kolfage would unduly prejudice jurors against him.

Miramar Beach wounded warrior Brian Kolfage poses with supporters last year outside the federal courthouse in Pensacola, where he faces federal tax charges. Kolfage also faces fraud and money laundering charges in federal court in New York, where a co-defendant recently failed to have his trial separated from Kolfage and another co-defendant.

New York Southern District Court Judge Analisa Torres on Monday denied Shea's motion to have his trial severed from the upcoming trial of Kolfage and Badolato. The three men face possible penalties of up to 40 years in prison if convicted on the federal wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy charges. The case is being pursued through the New York Southern District Court in part because several calls, emails, and wire transfers associated with the alleged fraud and money laundering moved through the New York City borough of Manhattan.

Story continues

Timothy Shea's arguments

In court documents supporting his motion to have his proceedings severed from proceedings against Kolfage and Badolato, Shea argued that Bannon, although no longer a codefendant in the case, " ... continues to be, a main figure in WBTW's history ..." and that the "notoriety and fame of Mr. Bannon, a media executive, political strategist, and former White House cabinet member (Bannon was a presidential adviser and strategist in the Trump White House), cannot be overstated."

Shea also argued that Kolfage, who lost both legs and an arm in a rocket attack while serving with the Air Force in Iraq in 2004, was particularly visible as "... inarguably the figurehead and spokesperson of the organization, traveling the country to speak with countless individuals who believed in his mission." Kolfage was, Shea also noted, "... active on all WBTW websites, social media, and other online written communications."

Shea contended that, unlike his co-defendants, he "is not a public figure nor did he receive any media coverage or personal notoriety from his involvement with WBTW."

The core of Shea's argument was that a joint trial would make him a victim of what his motion called "spillover prejudice." Specifically, the motion contends that "... a joint trial would compromise Mr. Sheas rights and would prevent the jury from making a reliable judgment about guilt or innocence from the spillover prejudice of the other codefendants."

Latest in the Kolfage saga:

Judge Analisa Torres' ruling

In her five-page ruling denying Shea's motion, Torres noted that it is allegedly Shea who suggested to Kolfage, Bannon and Badolato that he create a "shell corporation" to steer money to himself and Kolfage. Torres also cited a ruling in a 1998 federal case that held that "(t)he preference for joint trials 'is particularly strong where . . . the defendants are alleged to have participated in a common plan or scheme'.

Torres additionally wrote that Shea's "... concern about the potential stigma which might arise from his association with his co-defendants and Bannon can be addressed at voir dire, when the Court may question potential jurors about any biases they may have against those individuals."

Federal prosecutors also weighed in on Shea's motion for severance, arguing in a Dec. 5 court filing that they plan to present evidence regarding his role in the alleged conspiracy that is not substantially different from the evidence set to be presented against Kolfage and Badolato.

According to the prosecutors' filing, they anticipate introducing "... evidence of Sheas conduct in furtherance of the charged offenses, including, among other things, his written and oral communications with co-conspirators and others, financial transactions in which he engaged, and how he disposed of his portion of the crime proceeds."

Prosecutors told the court that "(a)lthough Kolfage, Badolato and Shea played different roles in the charged conspiracies ... there is simply nothing about the nature or quantity of the evidence in this case that sets Shea so far apart from Kolfage and Badolato that would require Shea to be tried separately."

Shea's latest motion marked the second time he has attempted to have his trial severed from his co-defendants. His first attempt came just three months after their 2020 indictment, when he asked that his trial be moved to federal court in Colorado. In that instance, Torres ruled that severing the case against (Shea) and conducting two trials on the same conspiracy would impose "a double burden on the judiciary.

The case's trial has been postponed numerous times, most recently as a result of Kolfage acquiring new counsel who asked the court for time to review the case record. A trial now is tentatively planned to begin sometime "in mid to late March 2022," according to a ruling from Torres in connection with New York attorney Cesar de Castro's August 2021 request for review time.

This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: Timothy Shea denied separate trial in Kolfage 'We Build the Wall' case
ROCHESTER, Mich., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly half of all new retail vehicles sold in the US will be accessorized within two years of delivery, yielding $18 billion in new vehicle accessory spending, according to Michigan automotive insights firm Foresight Research.

Foresight's most recently published US Accessory Immersion Report  finds over 6.2 million new vehicles are accessorized in the first year of ownership, representing over $12 billion in spending. Another $7 billion in accessory spending occurs within the two-year period from delivery.

No longer is the focus on just a few truck accessories, or on wheels and floor mats, says Steve Bruyn, Foresight's CEO. "The top installed accessories are connectivity-based, with Bluetooth, iPods, cell phone holders and charging devices topping the list. This is a whole new direction for the automotive accessory business, and it is right in line with what is going on in the industry. Appearance and protection accessories are also top performers."

Foresight's Accessory Sales & Marketing Report  finds that successful accessory marketing plans are rooted in advance market planning. Accessory buyers perform significant self-research in advance, gathering accessory information from digital media, brochures and print articles, as well as during visits to their local auto show. These are the "low handing fruit" that automakers can and should actively support. And with today's increasing digital car buying, these advance consumer research channels will likely play an even more important role moving forward.

Case in point: only half of all new vehicle buyers recall having a discussion about accessories with their dealer, and the majority of those discussions were initiated by the consumer themselves. Since the average buyer is spending $1,000 + on accessories in the aftermarket, these are sales dealers are surrendering by not proactively selling. And with limited dealer vehicle inventories, accessorizing at the dealer will be an even more important part of the dealer revenue in the coming year.

Foresight Research is a proven leader in automotive marketing research and insights since 1998. Our Automotive Accessory Group publishes annual syndicated reports on the US new vehicle accessory market and on the sales and marketing of accessories.

For more information, contact:

Bob Longstreth

Foresight Research

248.608.1870 x 18

[email protected]

www.foresightresearch.com

SOURCE Foresight Research
The Watergate scandal gets a whole new perspective in the first trailer for the upcoming Starz series Gaslit, starring Julia Roberts.

Roberts plays Margaret Mitchell, the wife of Richard Nixon's attorney general John Mitchell (Sean Penn), who was the first person to, 'publicly sound the alarm on Nixon's involvement' in the Watergate scandal.

The show is said to be, 'a modern take on Watergate that focuses on the untold stories and forgotten characters of the scandal.'

New trailer: The Watergate scandal gets a whole new perspective in the first trailer for the upcoming Starz series Gaslit, starring Julia Roberts

Sean as John: Roberts plays Margaret Mitchell, the wife of Richard Nixon's attorney general John Mitchell (Sean Penn), who was the first person to, 'publicly sound the alarm on Nixon's involvement' in the Watergate scandal

The trailer begins with Mitchell being introduced as cameras are flashed, while a man says, 'You are the first person to publicly accuse the President for the Watergate break-in. Are you crazy?'

She responds, 'I'm a Southern woman. We speak our minds, we talk. I never stop talking,' when the interviewer says, 'I bet your husband loves that,' and she says, without missing a beat, 'He takes it in stride.'

The trailer features more shots of both Margaret and John, with a graphic that reads, 'Based on the insane but shockingly true story.

Crazy: The trailer begins with Mitchell being introduced as cameras are flashed, while a man says, 'You are the first person to publicly accuse the President for the Watergate break-in. Are you crazy?'

Nonstop: She responds, 'I'm a Southern woman. We speak our minds, we talk. I never stop talking

Stride: The interviewer says, 'I bet your husband loves that,' and she says, without missing a beat, 'He takes it in stride'

Shockingly true: The trailer features more shots of both Margaret and John, with a graphic that reads, 'Based on the insane but shockingly true story'

G. Gordon Liddy (Shea Whigham) says, 'That loudmouth wife of his is becoming too much of a liability,' as John tells Martha, 'Do you want to know the truth? There is no conspiracy hiding in the shadows.'

While he says that, we see someone putting a bug in Martha's phone and a man literally stepping out of the shadows to confront Martha while she's on the phone.

Another man tells her that, 'a lot of women your age suffer from paranoid episodes' while she's seen struggling with two other men who are trying to inject her with something and ultimately throw her through a glass table.

Loudmouth: G. Gordon Liddy (Shea Whigham) says, 'That loudmouth wife of his is becoming too much of a liability,' as John tells Martha, 'Do you want to know the truth? There is no conspiracy hiding in the shadows'

Bug: While he says that, we see someone putting a bug in Martha's phone and a man literally stepping out of the shadows to confront Martha while she's on the phone

Thrown: Another man tells her that, 'a lot of women your age suffer from paranoid episodes' while she's seen struggling with two other men who are trying to inject her with something and ultimately throw her through a glass table

The trailer winds down with shots of the other cast members such as Dan Stevens as White House Counsel John Dean, Betty Gilpin as his wife Mo Dean and Whigham as Liddy, the chief operative of Nixon's White House Plumbers spy unit.

A number of other dramatic shots are shown before John Mitchell tells Margaret, 'nobody gives a damn what you think.'

The final shot of the trailer shows Margaret in front of some sort of panel where a man asks her, 'Why risk your husband's position?'

John: The trailer winds down with shots of the other cast members such as Dan Stevens as White House Counsel John Dean

Betty: Betty Gilpin also stars as John Dean's wife Mo Dean

Whigham: Shea Whigham plays Liddy, the chief operative of Nixon's White House Plumbers spy unit

Risk: The final shot of the trailer shows Margaret in front of some sort of panel where a man asks her, 'Why risk your husband's position?'

'Because it's the truth,' she says, as the trailer comes to an end.

The ensemble cast also includes Patton Oswalt as Chuck Colson, who served as Special Counsel to Nixon and Reed Diamond as Mark Felt, the FBI agent who revealed in 2005 that he was the controversial anonymous source known as Deep Throat.

Gaslit, created by Robbie Pickering, will debut April 24 on Starz.

Watch the brand new series Gaslit on April 24, only on Stan in Australia.

Truth: 'Because it's the truth,' she says, as the trailer comes to an end
Worse still for Clive Sutton, the dealer opens the press release attached at the end of this article with the following title: First Ford Broncos arrive on UK roads. Pardon my French, but Im pretty sure that Mat Watson of Carwow uploaded a review of a Clive Sutton-imported rig last October Nitpicking aside, what do you get for your hard-earned pounds sterling?Considering that Clive Sutton isnt a Ford Motor Company dealership, prospective customers will have to wait quite some time for their custom orders to be delivered. Those who prefer buying from the existing inventory will have to pony up a staggering 69,950 for the four-door Big Bend in the main photo. Thats $95,015 at current exchange rates compared to $37,725 over in the United States for the four-cylinder turbo and 10R60.The luxury car specialist (achoo!) further lists two examples of the four-door Outer Banks with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost and 10-speed auto at 75,000, which is $101,965 to whom it may concern. For reference, the UK-spec Jeep Wrangler is available from 52,800 for the four-door variant while the Rubicon starts at 55,800. Speaking of which, its kind of curious that Clive Sutton doesnt have a single Sasquatchd Bronco on sale at press time.As soon as Ford announced the new Bronco 4x4 SUV, we had enquiries from customers far and wide. The Bronco offers British buyers a way to stand out from the crowd in a vehicle that is as capable as it is distinctive, declared founder and CEO Clive Sutton. Considering that its closely related to the Ranger pickup truck, you might be much better off with a brand-new Ranger Raptor that currently retails from 52,260 ($70,915) in the UK.
President Joe Biden speaks about the counterterrorism operation in Syria from the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Feb. 3, 2022. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

ISIS Leader Killed During US Raid in Syria: US Officials

A raid by U.S. forces in Syria under the cover of darkness led to the death of the leader of the ISIS terrorist group, U.S. officials said on Feb. 3.

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, the leader of ISIS since 2019, was the target of the operation in northwest Syria.

As U.S. special operations forces under the control of U.S. Central Command approached the building in Atmeh where the terrorist leader was, he committed suicide, U.S. officials said.

Our team is still compiling the report, but we do know that as our troops approached to capture the terrorist, in a final act of desperate cowardness, he, with no regard to the lives of his own family or others in the building, chose to blow himself up, President Joe Biden said in prepared remarks delivered in Washington.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the bombing directly caused the deaths of women and children last night and that the mission was designed and carried out in a manner aimed to minimize civilian casualties.

But, given the complexity of this mission, we will take a look at the possibility our actions may also have resulted in harm to innocent people, Austin said.

Biden said he and other U.S. officials chose a raid over an airstrike in an attempt to minimize civilian casualties, stating that al-Qurayshi had surrounded himself with families, including children.

First responders reported that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women.

U.S. forces landed in helicopters and assaulted the house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, clashing for two hours with gunmen, according to witnesses. Residents described continuous gunfire and explosions that jolted the town, which sits near the Turkish border, an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syrias civil war.

Al-Qurayshis predecessor died during a U.S. raid in the same area in 2019.

In a picture obtained from social media, debris and rubble are seen in the aftermath of a counterterrorism mission conducted by the U.S. special operations forces in Atmeh, Syria, on Feb. 3, 2022. (Courtesy of Mohamed Al-Daher via Reuters)

People inspect a destroyed house following an operation by the U.S. military in the Syrian village of Atmeh, in Idlib Province, Syria, on Feb. 3, 2022. (Ghaith Alsayed/AP Photo)

Idlib is largely controlled by Turkish-backed fighters but is also an al-Qaida stronghold and home to several of its top operatives. Other militants, including extremists from the rival ISIS group, have also found refuge in the region.

The first moments were terrifying; no one knew what was happening, said Jamil el-Deddo, a resident of a nearby refugee camp. We were worried it could be Syrian aircraft, which brought back memories of barrel bombs that used to be dropped on us, he added, referring to crude explosives-filled containers used by President Bashar Assads forces against opponents during the Syrian conflict.

Since taking over ISIS, al-Qurayshi had overseen the rise of ISIS-linked terrorist groups around the world, U.S. officials say. He was also said to be behind attacks that wiped out Yazidi villages in Iraq in 2014.

Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and senior national security aides, monitored a live feed of the operation from the White House Situation Room, according to an official. The White House posted a picture of the group observing the operation.

Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the operation was a deliverance on the promise Biden made in 2021 that the ISIS leaders responsible for the deaths of 13 American troops in Kabul, Afghanistan, would pay.

Our troops protect us every day and we owe them thanks, he said in a statement.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
HP

AMG

We don't know where Watson gets these crazy ideas or who in their right mind offers their cars for these stunts, but we love watching them anyway.The Mercedes-AMG G 63 spends more time in posh neighborhoods, which explains its 157,000 price tag in the UK - but that doesn't mean it's lazy on its feet. This box-shaped cruiser has enough juice to shame popular brands on the drag strip. It's a tricked-out G-Class with a heart of darkness.Under the hood, it packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 making 585and 850 Nm of torque. That raucous engine is paired to an automatic gearbox on a four-wheel-drive set up. It will do 0 to 62 mph (100 kph) in just 4.5 seconds.The Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial, on the other hand, is a king of Safaris. It's not as pricy as the Mercedes-G 63, with a starting price of 37,000. Forget the ugly steel wheels. This off-roader will take you to wild and beautiful places. It's an off-roader with a seal of approval for its agility in the toughest of terrains.The Land Cruiser comes with a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine making 204 HP and 420 Nm of torque, paired with a manual gearbox. It also has a low range mode and a central locking differential but without a front and rear locker like the G 63.Watson put the Mercedes-AMG G 63 and the Toyota Land Cruiser through a series of challenges off-road to determine the ultimate king of the hill.On the uphill drag race, the Land Cruiser experiences some wheel spin during take-off but immediately catches up with the G 63. It almost felt like it would end in a tie, but the Japanese off-roader had one more trick up its sleeve in winning the race - a jump at the end.It wasn't a total loss for the G 63 though, as it won the down hill challenge, and the obstacle challenge.
Artist's impression of DSCOVR on the way to L1 on its Falcon 9 upper stage in 2015. Credit: SpaceX

The moon is set to gain one more crater. A leftover SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage will impact the lunar surface in early March, marking the first time that a human-made debris item unintentionally reaches our natural satellite.

In 2015 the Falcon 9 placed NOAA's DSCOVR climate observatory around the L1 Lagrange point, one of five such gravitationally-stable points between Earth and the Sun. Having reached L1, around 1.5 million km from Earth, the mission's upper stage ended up pointed away from Earth into interplanetary space.

This rendered a deorbit burn to dispose of it in our planet's atmosphere impractical, and the upper stage also lacked sufficient velocity to escape the Earth-moon system. Instead it was left in a chaotic Sun-orbiting orbit near the two bodies.

Now credible public estimates forecast its impact with the moon on 4 March at 12:25:39 UTC at a point on the lunar far side near the equator. Follow-up observations should sharpen the accuracy of the forecast, but the approximately 3 ton, 15 m long by 3 m wide upper stage is currently projected to hit at a speed about 2.58 km/s.

Scientifically vital points in space

The European Ariane 5 that recently delivered the James Webb Space Telescope to its observing point flew a mirror trajectory to that of the Falcon 9but the good news is that its upper stage has already evaded a comparable fate thanks to a specifically developed and qualified maneuver.

Europe's Ariane 5 delivered the James Webb Space Telescope to L2, the second Sun-Earth Lagrange point'behind' instead of in 'front of' our planetbut after separating from Webb the upper stage used all its remaining fuel to escape the Earth-moon system entirely, putting it into a stable heliocentric orbit.

There are locations around a planets orbit where the gravitational forces and the orbital motion of the Sun and planet interact to create a stable location, from where a spacecraft can reside with little effort from the operators on the ground to keep it in place. These points are known as Lagrangian or L points, after the 18th century Italian astronomer and mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange (born Giuseppe Luigi Lagrancia). As seen from the Sun, the L4 and L5 points lie at 60 degrees ahead of and behind Earth, close to its orbit. Unlike the other Lagrange points, L4 and L5 are resistant to gravitational perturbations. Because of this stability, objects such as dust and asteroids tend to accumulate in these regions. At L4 or L5, a spacecraft is truly stable, like a ball in a large bowl. Credit: ESA

A brief history of human-made moon impacts

Human-made objects have intentionally impacted the moon before, starting as early as the 1950s, including Apollo upper stages used to induce 'moonquakes' for surface seismometers.

In 2009 NASA crashed its LCROSS mission into the moon, revealing water in the resulting debris plume, with the LADEE spacecraft doing the same on the lunar farside in 2013. ESA's Smart-1 spacecraft was crashed into the moon in 2006, the subject of a worldwide observing campaign.

"This forthcoming Falcon 9 impact is a little beyond our usual area of interest, because we are mainly focused on the debris population in highly-trafficked low-Earth orbits, up to 2000 km altitude, as well as geosynchronous orbits around 35,000 km away," explains Tim Flohrer of ESA's Space Debris Office.

Looking back to Earth from DSCOVR's Falcon 9 upper stage on the way to L1. Just before sunset at 6:03pm ET on Wednesday 11 February 2015, Falcon 9 lifted off from SpaceXs Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. carrying the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) satellite on SpaceXs first deep space mission. Credit: SpaceX

"Our colleagues in the ESA Planetary Defence Office peer further into space, however. They use telescopes around the globe to track Near-Earth asteroids, and sometimes observe human-made objects as well. Extending our own remit into the 'cislunar' space between Earth and the moon has been discussed, due to the increasing use of the scientifically vital Sun-Earth Lagrange points in coming years."

Detlef Koschny, heading ESA's Planetary Defence Office, adds: "We use telescopic observations to pinpoint the orbits, mainly of natural objects in the space surrounding Earth. Occasionally, we also pick up man-made objects far away from the Earth, such as lunar exploration spacecraft remnants, and objects returning from Lagrange points."

For international spacefarers, no clear guidelines exist at the moment to regulate the disposal at end of life for spacecraft or spent upper stages sent to Lagrange points. Potentially crashing into the moon or returning and burning up in Earth's atmosphere have so far been the most straightforward default options.

"The upcoming Falcon 9 lunar impact illustrates well the need for a comprehensive regulatory regime in space, not only for the economically crucial orbits around Earth but also applying to the moon," says Holger Krag, Head of ESA's Space Safety Program.

Webbs journey to L2. Credit: European Space Agency

"It would take international consensus to establish effective regulations, but Europe can certainly lead the way."

All the launchers developed by ESA during the last decadeVega, Ariane 6 and Vega Cincorporate a built-in reignition capability, which ensures the safe return to Earth for atmospheric burn-up of their upper stages.

Assessing lunar impact risk

Space rocks hit the moon all the time. Researchers are interested in quantifying the frequency of these natural lunar impacts. Using a system developed through an ESA contract, the Greek NELIOTA project (Near-Earth object Lunar Impacts and Optical TrAnsients) detects flashes of light caused by small bodies striking the moon's surface, particularly across its shadowed face. NELIOTA can determine the temperature of these impact flashes as well as their brightness. From this, the impacting mass can be estimated.

Since March 2017, the NELIOTA project has been monitoring the dark side of the Moon for flashes of light caused by tiny pieces of rock striking the Moon's surface. This sequence of 12 consecutive frames shows a bright flash detected on 4 frames during observations on 1 March 2017. The red arrows point to the location of the impact flash, near the edge of the frame. Credit: NELIOTA project

ESA's Space Safety program is interested in this research as a way of assessing the number of incoming objects ranging in size from tens of centimeters to meters across. This is useful because the precise number of objects in this range is not known very well.

This research might also be valuable for future lunar colonists. One of the dangers they might face is small meteoroids doing damage to their infrastructureNELIOTA results are helping to quantify the danger. Without an atmosphere to burn up such bodies, it is likely that future permanent lunar structures will be underground, to provide shielding against impacts as well as space radiation.

Explore further Crashing rocket will create new moon crater: What we should worry about
Sweden to End All COVID-19 Restrictions

Sweden is set to end all COVID-19 restrictions on Feb. 9, the government has announced, joining several European countries that have recently scrapped many of their CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic rules.

It is time to open up Sweden again, Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson said during a Feb. 3 press briefing. While the pandemic is not over, it has entered an entirely new phase.

The message today is therefore that restrictions are dropped from Feb. 9, and at the same time, we urge all employers who have staff working at home to plan for a gradual return to the workplace.

Starting on Feb. 9, people will be allowed to dine at restaurants again with no limitations on how many of them can be inside or how much space there should be between them. The requirements for COVID-19 vaccine certificates and wearing face masks on public transportation also will be removed, as well as the recommendation to limit social contacts.

Andersson said the government is loosening its COVID-19 restrictions because of health officials having an improved understanding of the virus that causes the illness and a rise in the countrys vaccination rates.

This allows us to open up society, not least to everyone vaccinated, she said. Looking ahead, infection rates will remain high for a while longer, but as far as we can judge, the worst consequences of the contagion are now behind us.

In other parts of Europe, the Danish government lifted many COVID-19 restrictions this week, with officials saying that COVID-19 is no longer considered a socially critical disease. Denmark is among the first countries in the EU to announce an end to most of its pandemic restrictions, favoring the notion that its time to start thinking about the virus as endemic rather than as a pandemic.

Just hours after Denmark lifted restrictions, Norway followed suit by lifting its ban on serving alcohol after 11 p.m. and removing the 10-person cap on private gatherings.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

From NTD News
(ANSA) - ROME, FEB 3 - President Sergio Mattarella said after being sworn in for a second term Thursday that "parliament and the representatives of the regions have done their bit. It is a new call for me, an unexpected one, to responsibility, to which I cannot and will not shrink".

Noting that parliament was the ultimate expression of the popular will, the head of State said "my thoughts, at this time, go to all the Italian women and Italian men, of all ages, of all regions, of all social conditions, of all political leanings.

"And, in particular, to those suffering the most, who are awaiting from the institutions of the Republic a guarantee of rights, reassurance, support and concrete responses to their discomfort".

"When the speakers of the House and Senate told me the outcome of the vote, I spoke of the urgences - health, economic and social - which are calling to us. WE cannot afford delays or uncertainties." Mattarella stressed that "the fight against the virus is not over, the vaccination campaign has greatly reduced the risks but we cannot afford to lower our guard".

He went on: "We are living through an extraordinary phase in which the political agenda is largely defined by the shared strategy at the European level. Italy is at the centre of the commitment for recovery in Europe. We are the biggest benficiaries of the Next Generation programme and we must relaunch the economy while aiming for sustainability and innovation, within the framework of the digital and ecological transition.

"We must design and start to build, over these next few years, the post-emergency Italy. It is still time for a common effort to make Italy stronger, well beyond the current difficulties. A fairer, more modern Italy, intensely linked to the friendly peoples that surround us.

Italians' hopes and expectations, said the president, "would have been strongly compromised by the continuation of a state of deep political uncertainty and tensions, whose consequences could have jeopardised decisive resources and the prospects of relaunching a country working to emerge from a condition of great difficulty.

"I read this awareness in the vote of the parliament which concluded the tortuous days of last week.

"This very awareness is the reason for my saying yes (to be re-elected), and it will be at the centre of my commitment".

Saying that Italy must "steer the processes of relaunching Europe", Mattarella thanked Mario Draghi's government which is aiming to "overcome the emergency" and urged political parties to refrain from further "shows of force" since "we need to agree".

Among other things, he said that a "profound reform" of the justice system was needed to regain "profound rigour", also calling for an end to factionalism in the judiciary's self-governing body which he heads, the Supreme Council of Magistrates (CSM), spurring one of the many standing ovations he received for his speech.

Saying that citizens needed "trust and not fears", Mattarella also said he was grateful to Pope Francis and Italy had "great respect" for his teachings.

Mattarella added that schools must know how to welcome students and ensure equal opportunities for all.

The 80-year-old Palermo-born former Constitutional justice and three-time ex-minister was re-elected Saturday after six days of stalemate among Italy's political parties forced them to beg him to reluctantly set aside his retirement plans.

Mattarella, the second most-voted president after ex partisan Sandro Pertini in 1978, is the second Italian president to be re-elected after Giorgio Napolitano stepped back in after similar deadlock in 2013.

It is not known whether Mattarella intends to serve a full seven year term again.

Napolitano, 87 when he started his second term, only stayed on for a couple of years.

Former leftwing Christian Democrat Mattarella, whose brother Piersanti was slain by Cosa Nostra in 1980, will deliver an inaugural address that is expected to focus on boosting Italy's role within the EU.

The president is a largely ceremonial figure representing national unity and upholding the Constitution as a sort of moral compass, but the person can wield power in government crises by naming premiers and rejecting ministers, as Mattarella did in scotching Euroskeptic economist Paolo Savona as economy minister in 2018, while presidents are also empowered to ask parliament to reconsider legislation.

Matteralla was re-elected Italian president Saturday on the eighth ballot of 1,009 MPs, Senators and regional representatives, easily passing the 505 vote majority needed.

He got 759 votes out of a total of 983 voters, compared to the 665 he garnered in his first election in 2015.

The grand electors reassembled for then swearing in at the Lower House Thursday.

Mattarella drove down the Quirinale Hill to parliament flanked by throngs of well-wishers holding placards saying "Grazie Presidente". (ANSA).


Sheridan Smith flew her nanny out to Spain while filming her new role in ITV drama No Return to help with her son Billy.

The actress, 40, says she 'couldn't work' without help and doesn't know why people are embarrassed to admit that they receive help with childcare.

Sheridan - who welcomed Billy in May 2020 with ex-fiance Jamie Horn  felt 'very grateful' to have the additional help while working on her latest project.

Doting mama! Sheridan Smith flew her nanny out to Spain while filming her new role in ITV drama No Return to help with her son Billy

She is quoted by the Daily Star newspaper's Hot TV column as saying: 'I had a nanny, Yvonne, to help me. Nannies are amazing. I wouldn't be able to be working if I wasn't for her.

'People sometimes are embarrassed to say they've got a nanny. But if I'm working full-time, there's no way I could have him on set with me with him running around like he does at home.

Sheridan - who recently split from her boyfriend of four months Alex Lawler - said: 'She was brilliant. I was very grateful to her because I would not be able to do the job otherwise.'

Confused: The actress, 40, says she 'couldn't work' without help and doesn't know why people are embarrassed to admit that they receive help with childcare

Sheridan, who will be playing a mum in the four-part ITV drama, admitted she finds it tough working away from Billy.

She told how she struggled working away from her little boy for six weeks while filming in Budapest on another job.

Sheridan explained that they had just come out of the pandemic so she was unable to travel with her son.

She is quoted by the Daily Star newspaper's Hot TV column as saying: 'I had a nanny, Yvonne, to help me. Nannies are amazing. I wouldn't be able to be working if I wasn't for her' (pictured her son Billy)

The former Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps star credits motherhood for making her a better person.

She explained how her son is her main focus and she no longer sweats the small stuff after a day at work.

Sheridan - who will be playing Kathy, the mum of a 16-year-old son who is accused of sexual assault on the holiday from hell  recently admitted she has been in tears over her role.

Omg! Sheridan - who will be playing Kathy, the mum of a 16-year-old son who is accused of sexual assault on the holiday from hell  recently admitted she has been in tears over her role (stock image from the show)

She told The Sun: 'Playing roles before I had Billy to playing ones now I've had him, is totally different.

'People had said you can't understand the protectiveness and the overwhelming fear when you have a child and, he's not even two yet, butI feel it. I hope it will resonate with the audience, they'll be feeling all the angst as well. It's every parent's worst nightmare. I love playing protective mums like that. Kathy is a lioness.

'I've never been to a read-through like the one for this. It was so powerful. I mean, I cried all the way through.'
SUV

Land Rover's first venture into the cab-over-engine market goes back to the Series IIA FC. Obviously based on the Series IIA (1961-1971), the FC was introduced in 1962. Land Rover built fewer than 2,500 of them and some were used as fire and recovery trucks.The Brits introduced an updated version, the IIB FC, in 1966. Optionally available with a diesel engine, it was fitted with heavy-duty, wide-track axles and a front anti-roll bar for improved stability. The IIB FC remained in production until 1974.By that time, Land Rover had already introduced its third cab-over design, the 101 Forward Control . But unlike the IIA and IIB, the 101 was produced exclusively for the British Army and not available to the public (even though it was later offered as military surplus).The 101 was primarily produced to meet the Army's requirement for a gun tractor and the forward control design was preferred so that the truck would be easier to transport by air. Land Rover began developing the 101 in 1967, but the truck didn't go into production until 1972.The British company built 101s until 1978, but the trucks remained in service until the 1990s when the British Ministry of Defence replaced them with Defenders and Steyr-Puch Pinzgauer trucks.Before that happened, Land Rover developed the Llama as a replacement for the 101.But the Ministry of Defence's decision to replace its fleet of forward control trucks wasn't the only reason that led to the development of the Llama (called 110 Forward Control in official documentation). It also had to do with the restructuring that the British company was going through in the 1980s.As Rover car production left the Solihull factory, Land Rover closed its plants in Birmingham and brought all manufacturing under one roof. The move led to the creation of the Special Vehicles Division, through which Land Rover wanted to reduce the amount of specialist work it was sourcing out to other companies.It also wanted a piece of the heavy-duty off-road vehicle market, which at the time was dominated by the Mercedes-Benz Unimog, so the Brits decided to develop a Land Rover capable of carrying larger and heavier loads.But at the same, Land Rover didn't want to make one from scratch, so it used the then-newly-introduced Defender as a base.But unlike the 101 Forward Control , which was destined for military use only, the 110 Forward Control was also supposed to spawn a civilian version.Project Llama started in 1985 with a modified Defender 110 chassis that shared about 85% percent of its components with the. However, it was made of thicker steel. Likewise, the Defender suspension gained unique twin rear springs for a 1.75-ton payload, while the 110 axles were replaced with bespoke units that were 12 inches (305 mm) wider for increased stability.The fiberglass cab was hinged at the front and tilted forward to allow access to the drivetrain, a design that fixed a big issue with the previous 101 FC. The interior wasn't as spartan either, with most surfaces trimmed in plastic and rubber.The Llama's cabin also used a wide range of components from other Rover Group vehicles, including the Defender, Austin Metro, and Austin Montego to further reduce costs for civilian production.Land Rover built about 11 prototypes that were sent to the British Ministry of Defence for testing with the hope of winning a contract. These were fitted with a variety of rear bodies, including standard drop-side beds, fiberglass pods, canvas tops, and eclosed bodies mocked up as ambulances and radio communication vehicles.But things didn't go as well as Land Rover had hoped. Testing revealed several design flaws, starting with the fact that the Llama was unstable over rough terrain due to its coil-spring suspension and high center of gravity. What's more, the truck showcased poor performance when loaded.The fact that the Llama came fitted with a gasoline engine (215-cubic-inch / 3.5-liter V8 rated at 110 horsepower) was also an issue, as the Ministry of Defence had recently switched to diesel power for all its vehicles. Consequently, Land Rover built a prototype with the 152-cubic-inch (2.5-liter) turbodiesel four-cylinder it had launched in 1986, but at only 85 horsepower, the oil burner was unacceptably lazy in the Llama.The Ministry of Defence thus rejected Land Rover's proposal and went with the Reynolds-Boughton RB44, which was based on the Dodge 50 Series light truck produced in the U.K. by Chrysler Europe.But ironically enough, the RB44's poor reliability prompted the government to overhaul its fleet of 101 Forward Control trucks and keep them in service until the late 1990s.By the time the British army rejected the Llama, Land Rover had built one civilian prototype on the Solihull production line to test its mass production potential alongside the Defender. And even though the results were satisfying, Land Rover opted to cancel the project in 1988 over fears that the Llama wouldn't have what it takes to compete with the Unimog.But even though it disappeared into the history books earlier than planned, the Llama left a few traces in the Defender lineup. In 1987, the SUV's warning lights cluster was modified to include a new light to warn the driver if the cab's locking mechanism was opened. Showing a tilting truck cab with a large exclamation mark, the light remained in the Defender's cluster until 1998.So what happened to all the Llama prototypes? Well, many of them still exist. While some ended up being used as service vehicles at the Solihull plant, others were included in the Dunsfold Collection of Historic Land Rovers in Surrey. The sole production-line Llama is on display at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, alongside the very first Land Rover and a prototype 101 recovery truck.To this day, the Llama remains the last cab over engine truck developed by Land Rover.
Nicola Sturgeon has heaped further criticism on the Prime Minister, as she argued independence provided an alternative to being left at the mercy of his disreputable, discredited UK Government.

The Scottish First Minister confirmed preparatory work is underway to enable a second referendum to be held  a commitment both the SNP and their Scottish Green Party partners in Government made in their manifestos for last years Holyrood elections.

Ms Sturgeon restated her desire for an independence vote to take place before the end of 2023 Covid permitting  despite Boris Johnson having made clear his opposition to such a ballot.

The SNP leader insisted: The alternative to independence is to continue to be governed by parties at Westminster that we dont vote for and right now that is by a disreputable, discredited government and a Prime Minister, frankly, with no integrity, no shame and no moral compass.

Nicola Sturgeon was asked about plans for a second independence referendum at First Ministers Questions (Andy Buchanan/PA)

With Scottish Tory leader, Douglas Ross, having called for Mr Johnson to quit, and having submitted a letter of no confidence in his UK party leader, Ms Sturgeon said Mr Johnson was a prime minister that even Douglas Ross doesnt think is fit for office.

With the Prime Minister under continued pressure over lockdown parties in Downing Street, she added: Scotland can do better than that and, with independence, we will do better.

Her comments came at First Ministers Questions at Holyrood, as SNP backbencher Stuart McMillan asked for an update on referendum plans.

Ms Sturgeon confirmed her intention to seek to hold another ballot, saying: The people of Scotland elected this Government last May, their democratic decision was to elect a Parliament with the biggest ever majority of MSPs in favour of an independence referendum.

So, in line with the clear mandate given by people in that election, preparatory work is underway so a referendum can be held, as Ive said as the Covid crisis passes, and Covid permitting, within the first half of this parliamentary term.

FM: "Any political party that was confident in their arguments around independence would not be desperate to deny the people of Scotland the right to make that choice." #FMQs  The SNP (@theSNP) February 3, 2022

Then the people of Scotland will have the choice to take our future into our own hands, instead of being at the mercy of a disreputable, discredited UK Government.

Mr McMillan agreed it was time to deliver on what the people voted for, have a referendum, win that referendum and deliver our independence from a wretched and seemingly corrupt Westminster.

In response to that, Ms Sturgeon said that virtually every promise made by the pro-UK campaign in the run up to the 2014 vote had since been broken.

She added: The crowning one of all of those, of course, was the fact that according to them the only way to protect Scotlands membership of the European Union was to vote No to independence.

And here we are, ripped out of the EU.

The First Minister continued: Theres a key point here because independence is about aspiration, it is about empowerment, it is about taking our destiny into our own hands so we can build a better future.

I think it is because they fear the power of that positive argument that Tories, Labour, Liberal Democrats want to deny Scotland the choice.

She insisted: Any political party in this chamber that was confident in their arguments around independence would not be desperate to deny the people of Scotland the right to make that choice.
(Click on image to Greatly Enlarge)

The brand new Apple Yas Mall opened earlier today at the bustling shopping destination in Abu Dhabi. Nearly doubling the size of the original location that opened in 2015, the store serves as a reimagined space for customers to browse Apples latest products and services, receive the best support from knowledgeable team members, and participate in free Today at Apple sessions.

Deirdre OBrien, Apples senior vice president of Retail + People: "With the opening of the newly expanded Apple Yas Mall, our team is ready to welcome even more of Abu Dhabis incredibly diverse and innovative community to this beautiful new space. We look forward to continuing to bring the best of Apple to the UAE, and building on our history in the region.

Situated in a prime corner location at the malls town square, the store features a stunning curved glass exterior and integrates over 150 feet of glass throughout the storefront. Bianco Cristal floors and wood ceilings are used throughout the space, resembling similar materials found in other Apple Store locations around the world.

Natural light easily flows inside with two large skylights sitting directly above six Ficus Nitida trees. Visitors will find the freestanding video wall and Forum positioned at the center of the store, which is home to free Today at Apple sessions. Led by Apple Creative Pros, these daily sessions provide creative inspiration, teach practical skills, and help participants go further with their products.

Customers can discover Apples products and services at surrounding tables and avenues; learn more about Apples Trade In program across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch; and get shopping support from Apple Specialists. Apple Yas Mall includes 100 highly trained team members who collectively speak 33 languages and represent 32 nationalities. The diverse team has nearly doubled since the store originally opened in 2015, and more than half remains part of the team that will welcome customers to the new Apple Yas Mall location.

Apple has been operating in the region for over 10 years, and has more than 600 team members across the UAE. Since Apple opened its first stores in the UAE in 2015, theyve welcomed nearly 30 million visitors. Apple continues its strong commitment to local users by providing an incredible experience across products, software, and services. Customers can enjoy software and apps in Arabic, tailor-made Arabic content across Apple Music, and a localized App Store available in 14 countries across the Middle East and North Africa.
Karnataka Muzrai Minister Shashikala Jolle on Thursday said the government is still studying the proposal to free Hindu temples from state control.

She said this after a delegation of priests gave her a memorandum urging the government to drop the idea of freeing up Hindu temples.

Freeing up temples is something were still studying, Jolle told reporters. Were looking at what other states have done. I have discussed this with the chief minister also, she said.

Late December, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai announced in Hubballi that his government will draft a law to free Hindu temples from state control, a long-pending demand of the Sangh Parivar. Bommai had said that the law will be drafted before the budget session.

A section of priests, however, are against the idea. There will be problems if temples are freed. Temples got land from erstwhile kings and there are several properties worth lakhs. Who will protect them? The government wants to form a trust. But, will that trust look after temples, KSN Dikshith, chief organising secretary of Akhila Karnataka Hindu Temples Priests Federation, said.

Karnataka has 34,563 temples under the Muzrai department. Of them, 205 are in the A category with an annual revenue of over Rs 25 lakh. There are 139 temples in the B category (between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 25 lakh). The remaining 34,219 temples are in the C category.

Temples in the A and B categories earned Rs 1,383.63 crore between 2018 and 2020.

The federation also urged the minister to withdraw the requirement of priests to retire at 60 and hike the monthly tasdik amount from Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000. Weve been asking for a hike for four years, Dikshith said.

Jolle said a proposal hiking the tasdik amount is ready. Our government is in favour of the priests. The demand to hike tasdik is valid. I am taking this to the CM soon, she said.

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New Delhi:

Former Union Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Wednesday questioned PM Modi over his recent statement wherein the Prime Minister had asked the grand old party to publicly declare that they are prepared to accord Indian citizenship to all Pakistanis. Taking to Twitter, Chidambaram wrote: Why should we give citizenship to people who are already citizens of Pakistan? What is the meaning of such challenges to the Opposition (sic)?

Accusing the Modi government of challenging secularism, Chidambaram said, It is gratifying that the students and the young generation are liberal, secular, tolerant and exhibit humanism. Is the government challenging these values?

On Tuesday, PM Modi while addressing a public rally in Jharkhand, PM Modi accused the Congress party for peddling lies over the Citizenship Act and creating an atmosphere of fear among Muslims. The Congress is spreading lies, creating an atmosphere of fear for Muslims over the Citizenship Act. I give my assurances no citizen in the country will be affected by the law, he stated.

On the issue of Citizenship Amendment Act and the clashes occurred after it got Parliaments nod, PM Modi said, I want to know how the new citizenship law encroaches upon rights of Muslims or any Indian citizen.

He also urged the college and university students protesting against the amended Citizenship Act to bring forth issues for debate and discussion in a democratic manner. I urge the students from universities and colleges to understand their importance, the importance of the place they are studying in. Debate and discuss the decisions and policies of the government and if you find anything wrong, protest in a democratic manner, make your voice reach the government. This government listens to and understands everyones voice, emotion, said Modi.

Leaders of 12 opposition parties led by Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday met President Ram Nath Kovind over the police action in Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi. The Opposition has demanded a judicial probe into Sunday's police action against Jamia students.

You all have seen that the Modi government seems to have no compulsions when it comes to shutting down peoples voices, Sonia Gandhi told the media after meeting the president, adding that we fear the protests may spread further.

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HOUSTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Peru's commodity regulator Osinergmin has switched to using Argus prices to monitor imports of gasoline, diesel, jet and bunker fuel, LPG and biofuels, from this January.

Published by global energy and commodity price reporting agency Argus, the prices are based on the active US Gulf coast markets from which Peru sources most of its approximately 200,000 b/d of oil imports. Transportation costs published in Argus Freight are also included in the monitoring process.

Osinergmin adds further variables to account for demurrage, quality adjustments, port, terminal and pipeline costs and publishes the resulting fully costed prices on its website every Monday.

Peruvian state-owned oil company PetroPeru, which is responsible for more than half of Peru's imports, started using Argus to price its import tenders in 2017. This latest move by the regulator means that other importers will now be expected to base their own prices on Argus assessments, which offer accurate and transparent measures of value.

Argus Media chairman and chief executive Adrian Binks said: "We welcome the decision of the Peruvian regulator to switch to Argus prices. We work hard to provide representative and useful price information about these key energy markets. Osinergmin's choice of Argus is a valued endorsement of the quality of our work."

The official prices are based on Argus price assessments as published in Argus US Products, Argus International LPG, Argus Americas Biofuels, Argus Biofuels and Argus Freight

Argus contact information

Houston: Matt Oatway

+1 713 968 0000

Email Matt

London: Seana Lanigan

+44 20 7780 4200

Email Seana

Singapore: Tomoko Hashimoto

+65 6496 9960

Email Tomoko

Moscow: Alexey Komarov

+7 495 933 75 71

Email Alexey

About Argus Media

Argus is an independent media organisation with more than 1,100 staff. It is headquartered in London and has 26 offices in the world's principal commodity trading and production centres. Argus produces price assessments and analysis of international energy and other commodity markets and offers bespoke consulting services and industry-leading conferences.

Companies in 140 countries around the world use Argus data to index physical trade and as benchmarks in financial derivative markets as well as for analysis and planning purposes.

Argus was founded in 1970 and is a privately held UK-registered company. It is owned by employee shareholders, global growth equity firm General Atlantic and Hg, the specialist software and technology services investor.

ARGUS, the ARGUS logo, ARGUS MEDIA, ARGUS DIRECT, ARGUS OPEN MARKETS, AOM, FMB, DEWITT, JIM JORDAN & ASSOCIATES, JJ&A, FUNDALYTICS, METAL-PAGES, METALPRICES.COM, INTEGER, Argus publication titles and Argus index names are trademarks of Argus Media Limited.

SOURCE Argus Media
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Libyan minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Najla al-Mangouch, Wednesday hailed "the efforts of the African Union (AU) to achieve unity among African countries, accelerate political, economic and social integration and strengthen solidarity among their peoples".

She was speaking at the ceremony to lay the foundation stone of the Libyan embassy building in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, which includes, in addition to the embassy, the headquarters of the Libyan Permanent Mission to the African Union, according to a statement issued by her ministry.

The Libyan minister stressed the importance of the presence of the embassy and the Permanent Mission of Libya in Addis Ababa, which houses the headquarters of the African Union and other regional offices and centres.

Mrs. al-Mangouch expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the Libyan Embassy staff to strengthen relations between the Libyan State and the Republic of Ethiopia, and the services provided by the Embassy to the citizens.

The laying of the foundation stone of the new Libyan Embassy building coincides with the 13th anniversary of the Libyan chairmanship of the African Union General Assembly meetings on 2 February 2009.

The ceremony was attended by the Director of the Africa Department at the ministry of Foreign Affairs, Fateh Bachina, the Charge d'Affaires at the Libyan Embassy in Addis Ababa, Alaa al-Tagouri, and members of the Libyan delegation participating in the meetings of the 40th session of the African Union Executive Council.

Libya is one of the founding countries of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), having hosted the first session of the General Assembly of the African Union (AU) in July 2002.

-0- PANA BY/JSG/SOC/BBA/RA 2Feb2022
New Delhi: The wait for Congress chief ministerial candidate for Punjab will come to an end soon. Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi on Thursday (February 3) said that the name of the Congress CM face for the upcoming state assembly elections will be announced on February 6, ANI reported.

During his political programme in Sri Chamkaur Sahib, Channi told reporters, CM candidate will be announced on February 6. I will be with Rahul Gandhi on that day.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on January 27 had announced at a virtual rally in Punjab that the party would announce the CM face in the state elections after consulting party workers. Gandhi had said that both Channi and Punjab Congress chief Navjot Singh Sidhu have assured him that whoever is picked, the other would support him.

Meanwhile, after setting the political circle abuzz with his claim that 42 out of 79 party MLAs wanted him to become the CM after Captain Amarinder Singh quit the top job last year, senior Punjab Congress leader Sunil Jakhar on Thursday batted for Channi as the CM face in the forthcoming elections.

"What they decide will be accepted by all. But I`m of opinion that Channi ji has been given the opportunity, he should be given time so that he continues working. People have seen his good work in four months," Jakhar told ANI.

Dismissing Jakhars remark to announce Channi as the CM candidate, Sidhu said, It's up to Sunil Jakhar whatever he says, but it's not in his hand nor in mine. People will elect MLAs and then CM will be elected. We've to give people agenda, model.

Congress has fielded Channi from two seatsBhadaur and Chamkaur Sahib SC, while Sidhu, who is also a CM aspirant, is contesting from Amritsar East seat.

Punjab will go to polls in a single-phase on February 20 to elect 117 members.

(With agency inputs)

Live TV
NEW DELHI: Conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar has issued an alleged letter to the media through his lawyer expressing his displeasure over intimate pictures of him and Jacqueline Fernandez being leaked in the public. Several photographs of Jacqueline and Sukesh have been circulated on the internet in the last few months. The actress has also been facing a probe by Enforcement Directorate into the Rs 200 crore money laundering case.

While Jaqueline has denied dating Sukesh Chandrasekhar, the conman once again confirmed in the letter that they were in a relationship, which did not involve any financial expectations. He stated that the gifts he gave to her were from 'legitimate earnings' and were given 'out of love' and it was no 'big deal'. He appealed to not portray the actress in a bad light as his presents to her.

As per TOI, in the letter addressed to the media, Sukesh wrote: "It's really sad and disturbing to see private pictures being circulated, which I have got to know through news the whole of last week. It's a complete violation of one's privacy and personal space. As I have mentioned before I and Jacqueline were in a relationship. Seeing each other and the relationship was not based on any kind of monetary benefits like the way its projected, commented and trolled in a bad light. The relationship has lots of love and respect for each other without any expectations. Kindly requesting everyone to stop projecting her in a bad way, as it's not easy on her, who has only loved without expecting anything. I have mentioned before that she has no involvement in the ongoing money-laundering case."

"I have gifted her things and done things for her family, are normal things one would do for his loved one in a relationship. It's personal, I don't understand why its being made such a big deal. At the same time, I would like to again certain that none of this was "proceedings of so called crime". It's all from legitimate earnings and the same would be proved in the court of law very soon."

"I kindly request everyone to stop looking at this a wrong way and insist please show her lots of love and support as she is not wrong in any way except loving without any expectations," he concluded.

It was reported that Jacqueline received gifts worth a whopping Rs 10 crore from multi-millionaire conman Sukesh. The gifts included a horse worth Rs 52 lakh, four Persian cats with each costing Rs 9 lakh, among others. She also received two pairs of diamond earrings, two Hermes bracelets, three Birkin bags and a pair of Louis Vuitton shoes.

It can be recalled that several cosy moments between Jacqueline and conman Sukesh had surfaced on the internet following which the actress issued a statement requesting media for privacy and to not circulate those images. The actress clearly stated that it intruded her privacy and personal space. Jacqueline also stated in her Instagram note about going through a 'rough patch'.

On the work front, Jacqueline was last seen in the horror-comedy 'Bhoot Police' alongside Saif Ali Khan, Arjun Kapoor, and Yami Gautam. Her upcoming projects include 'Attack', Kannada action-thriller 'Vikrant Rona', 'Bachchan Panday', 'Cirkus' and 'Ram Setu'.

Live TV
After weeks of uncertainty, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has informed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of ...





After weeks of uncertainty, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has informed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of plans to hold its national convention on February 26.





The notification letter, dated February 2, 2022, with reference number APC/NHDQ/INEC/19/022/14, was addressed to the Chairman of the electoral body, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu.





The letter was jointly signed by Sen. John Akpanudoedehe, the National Secretary; and the Chairman of the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Mai Mala Buni.





The letter read: Follow up to our letter referenced APC/NHDQ/INEC/19/021/40 dated 11 July 2021 on the notice for the conduct of the national convention. This is to inform the commission that our great party has scheduled to hold its National Convention on Saturday, 26 February 2022.





This serves as a formal notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 85 of the Electoral Act (2010) as amended. Kindly arrange for your officials to monitor the exercise accordingly.





While hoping to receive your cooperation, please accept the assurances of our highest esteem.
Judge Blocks Military From Punishing 2 Troops Seeking Religious Exemptions to Vaccine Mandate

Services appear to be 'discriminatorily and systematically denying religious exemptions'

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and all other military officials are barred from taking punitive action against two service members seeking religious exemptions to the militarys COVID-19 vaccine mandate, a federal judge ruled on Feb. 2.

The Marine Corps. lieutenant colonel and Navy Command officer appear to have been wrongfully denied a religious exemption from COVID-19 vaccination, U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday, a George H. W. Bush nominee, wrote in a 10-page ruling.

The lieutenant colonel was told she would be disciplined starting Feb. 2 if she didnt receive a dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, according to court documents.

The Navy officer, meanwhile, was told he would be removed from command of his ship on Feb. 3 if he didnt start a COVID-19 vaccination series.

Both saw their religious exemption applications denied and appeals to the denials rejected.

Top military officials determined that the commanders religious beliefs were sincere and that they would be substantially burdened by being forced to get vaccinated, but also claimed that granting the exemption request would have a predictable and detrimental effect on the readiness of you and the Sailors who serve alongside you.

In the Marines case, the lieutenant colonels religious opposition to any vaccine developed with fetal cell linesall three COVID-19 shots cleared by U.S. regulators utilized aborted cellsstemmed from becoming pregnant from a rape, she said in a sworn declaration.

The rejection letter was identical to the letters received by 16 other sailors whose applications were denied despite each sailor getting their request endorsed by the woman, who is the units commanding officer, and each sailor submitting distinct, personal accounts of our religious practices and the method by which receipt of the COVID-19 vaccine would violate those tenets, she stated.

The denial letter, presented to the court, showed that a Marine official questioned whether getting a COVID-19 vaccine would substantially burden a religious belief, because the same objections the lieutenant colonel lodged could be made for every FDA approved vaccine [she has] received in the military.

Even if the case could be made of a substantial burden, the official said that the governments compelling interests in military readiness and in the health and safety of the force justified denying the request.

Both the Navy and Marine rejections failed to note that the branches have separately granted hundreds of medical exemptions to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, Merryday wrote.

The record in the case creates a strong inference that the services are discriminatorily and systematically denying religious exemptions without a meaningful and fair hearing and without the showing required under RFRA (while simultaneously granting medical exemptions and permitting unvaccinated persons to continue in service without adverse consequence), he said.

RFRA refers to the Religious Freedom Restoration Acta law that plaintiffs and defendants interpret differently.

The military hasnt established, and likely cant establish, that permitting the relatively small number of RFRA objectors, even if every request for exemption (much less the two at issue in this motion) were sincere and successful, to serve without adverse consequences to their standing and the terms and conditions of their service will adversely affect the publics interest in the maintenance and readiness of the nations military forces, Merryday stated.

In fact, the public undoubtedly has some considerable interest in maintaining the services of skilled, experienced, highly trained, patriotic, courageous, and esteemed service members, such as the two moving service members, in whom the public has an immense financial investment and who are not, to say the least, readily replaceable.

The judge blocked the punishment of the two members for now and ordered a hearing on Feb. 10 in federal court in Tampa, Florida.

Government lawyers had urged the court to not grant the request for a temporary restraining order, claiming it didnt have jurisdiction to decide whether military commanders should remain in their positions.

Plaintiffs invite this Court to begin judicial oversight of individual assignment, reassignment, and command decisions, asking this Court to enjoin the Navy from removing the commander of a warship and to stop withdrawal of anothers command selection. Such unprecedented judicial action would damage the militarys interests in readiness, health of service members, and good order and discipline, and the public interest in the national security of the United States, they wrote in a filing that failed to sway the judge.
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2022 Optical Fiber Communication Conference and Exhibition (OFC), the premier international event for the latest advances in optical communications and networking, will feature comprehensive educational programming on groundbreaking innovationsfrom research to marketplacespanning the entire ecosystem, during the hybrid event 06  10 March 2022 in San Diego, CA.

This is a milestone year for OFC; for more than 45 years the conference continues to provide the leading platform for global collaboration in optical communications technology. Tweet this OFC 2022

Executives, technical experts, academia, media and analysts will connect through OFC's hybrid format featuring virtual and in-person programming and an in-person exhibition to meet the unique needs of a global audience.

OFC's comprehensive technical programming spans five days and features peer-reviewed presentations and more than 120 invited speakers. Presenters will discuss the industry's hottest topics, including advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSPs); Artificial Intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML); coherent pluggables; co-packaging; data center optics at greater than 400G; emerging architectures for 5G and edge networks; high-speed PON; SDM for submarine networks; quantum communications and Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC). Additional technical programming throughout the week includes symposia, in-depth tutorials, workshops, panels and the thought-provoking rump session. Review the schedule for in-person and virtual options.

"This is a milestone year for OFC; for more than 45 years the conference continues to provide the leading platform for global collaboration in optical communications technology," said OFC General Chairs Shinji Matsuo, David Plant and Jun Shan Wey. "OFC's in-person and virtual program will present a robust lineup of technology programming that provides expert insight and real-world examples of topics ranging from the latest in datacenter optics, advancements in co-packaged optics, machine learning and 5G."

This year's event features a plenary session, over 100 technical sessions featuring more than 500 invited and contributed talks, three symposia, three special sessions, ten workshops, nine panels, 55 short courses, plus business-focused programming.

PLENARY SPEAKERS:

John Bowers, Director, Institute of Energy Efficiency, University of California, Santa Barbara, USA; James Green, Scientist and Senior Advisor, NASA, USA; and Elise Neel, Senior Vice President, New Business Incubation, Verizon, USA, will provide attendees with insight into how revolutionary technologies are shaping our world and the impacts they will have on the industry moving forward.

CONFERENCE PROGRAMMING HIGHLIGHTS:

Special conference programming includes the Symposia, Panels, the Open Networking Summit and the Demo Zone.

BUSINESS PROGRAMMING:

OFC's vibrant business-focused programming will provide participants with an understanding of current market trends, new technologies and insight into the future of the industry. Sessions will address the state of the industry, emerging technologies and recommended courses of action to tackle even the toughest business challenges.

This year's show floor programming taking place 08 - 10 March 2022 will feature Market Watch, the Network Operator Summit, the Data Center Summit and more than 15 programs. Panels of experts from global brands and key industry organizations will provide high-level perspectives on the state of the industry, hot topics and perspectives on current and future challenges and solutions.

Spanning three days, the Market Watch program will feature a series of panel discussions engaging the latest application topics and business issues in the field of optical communications. Presentations and panel sessions feature esteemed guest speakers from industry, research and the investment community, including the much anticipated "State of the Industry" analyst panel.

Service providers and network operators present their insider perspective during the Network Operator Summit. This year's session will feature keynote speaker Lynn Nelson , Director, Optical Platform Development, Network Infrastructure and Services, AT&T, USA , and panels on FTTH and access networks and using disaggregation as a strategy to modernize the network.

, , and panels on FTTH and access networks and using disaggregation as a strategy to modernize the network. This year's Data Center Summit session will address evolving data center requirements for technologies, equipment, applications and deployment scenarios in hyperscale and enterprise. Keynote speaker Ashish Vengsarkar, Head of Optical Networking Technologies, Google, USA , will discuss market forces driving future data center interconnect technologies. Two additional sessions will discuss scaling Data Center Interconnects (DCIs) and solving the challenge of moving datacenters to the network edge.

, will discuss market forces driving future data center interconnect technologies. Two additional sessions will discuss scaling Data Center Interconnects (DCIs) and solving the challenge of moving datacenters to the network edge. Educational programs in the three exhibit hall theaters feature presentations by experts from major global brands and key industry organizations. Speakers will present high-level perspectives on hot topics like intra and inter data center connectivity, infrastructure and machine learning/automation.

Industry groups such as the Ethernet Alliance, DARPA and Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF) will provide updates on the technology developments, specifications and implementations.

EXHIBIT:

OFC's exhibit will feature hundreds of organizations demonstrating the entire spectrum of products including network equipment and software, active and passive components, test and manufacturing equipment, data center/IT products and cable and fiber.

HEALTH AND SAFETY:

OFC Management is committed to the health and safety of conference participants and is following global, federal, state and local health guidelines in preparation for OFC 2022. All conference attendees, exhibitors, vendors and staff must be fully vaccinated and show proof of vaccination with photo ID and wear a mask in the San Diego Convention Center at all times except when actively eating and drinking. Please visit the health and safety page for additional information on requirements and procedures for entering the conference, including vaccine and mask guidelines.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:

Credentialed media and analysts who wish to cover OFC can find registration and other essential information in the OFC media room.

ABOUT OFC

The 2022 Optical Fiber Communication Conference and Exhibition (OFC) is the premier conference and exhibition for optical communications and networking professionals. For more than 45 years, OFC has drawn attendees from all corners of the globe to meet and greet, teach and learn, make connections and move business forward.

OFC includes dynamic business programming, an exhibition of global companies and high impact peer-reviewed research that, combined, showcase the trends that are shaping the entire optical networking and communications industry. OFC is co-sponsored by the IEEE Communications Society (IEEE/ComSoc) and the IEEE Photonics Society and co-sponsored and managed by Optica (formerly OSA). OFC in 2022 will be presented in a hybrid format with in-person and virtual components and will take place 06-10 March 2022 at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California, USA. Follow OFC on Twitter @OFCConference, learn more at OFC Community LinkedIn, and watch highlights on OFC YouTube.

Media Contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE The Optical Fiber Communication Conference and Exhibition (OFC)
An infant chimpanzee from a critically endangered species has celebrated her second birthday at Edinburgh Zoo.

Western chimpanzee Masindi, the youngest of the troop at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland zoos Budongo Trail, spent her big day on Thursday opening presents filled with delicious treats including straw, peanuts, sunflower seeds and chickpeas.

Masindi opens presents on her birthday on Thursday (Royal Zoological Society of Scotland)

The two-year-old shares her name with the nearest town to the Budongo Conservation Field Station in Uganda, where the zoological society has funded efforts to protect chimpanzees in the Budongo forest since 2005.

Masindi is one of almost 3,000 animals at Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park.

There are thought to be less than 50,000 Western chimpanzees left in the wild. They are found in forests across the Ivory Coast, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, and Sierra Leone.
Russia is fully prepared to invade Ukraine and is using it for political purposes, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer has said.

According to an Ukrinform correspondent, he stated this in his speech in the Federal Council (upper house of parliament) on Thursday, February 3.

"There is a very serious situation between Ukraine and the Russian Federation and the escalation that is happening at the borders is worrying. The Russian Federation now has everything at hand to launch an invasion of Ukraine. The Russian Federation also understands this. It uses it in a political manner," he said.

Nehammer added that the European Union is trying its best to promote dialogue, including within of the Normandy format. "The Normandy format has been reinstated, which is very important. In [this format], Ukraine, Russia, Germany and France are sitting at the same table. And this, in my opinion, is very important," he said.

He added that EU member states also provide direct support to Ukraine. According to him, "Austria is doing the same." Against this background, he pointed to his planned visit to Ukraine and participation in a major Ukrainian-Austrian forum, which should be seen as a show of support for Ukraine "in this tense time."

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Two people found in a home had died days earlier, sparking a mystery in Mississippi.

A dog was also dead inside the home, which was locked when deputies arrived to make a welfare check on Feb. 1, the Hinds County Sheriffs Office told news outlets.

Deputies were called at about 7 p.m. after someone reported not hearing from their relatives. Officials discovered the bodies in Raymond, roughly 20 miles west of Jackson, according to WJTV.

Now, deputies are trying to determine how the people died. The sheriffs office told news outlets it believes the man and woman were in their 50s and that they had died seven to 10 days earlier.

Right now theres no evidence of foul play, but were not ruling foul play out, Sheriff Tyree Jones told WAPT.

As investigators try to unravel the mystery, they said they dont think carbon monoxide played a role in the deaths. A weapon was found in the home, though officials dont think it was used, news outlets reported.

There was a broken window in a side room inside of the residence, Jones told WAPT. We believe that the window was broken recently.

Deputies are awaiting the causes of death, and the Hinds County coroner was expected to make an autopsy report. The investigation was ongoing as of Feb. 2, WJTV and WLBT reported.

The Hinds County Sheriffs Office didnt immediately share additional information with McClatchy News on Feb. 3.

Crews clearing trees find skeletal remains of man missing since 2017, SC coroner says

24-year-old hiker went missing months ago. Her remains may have been found, WV cops say
A meteorologist mom has become a viral sensation after doing her daily on-air weather forecast with her adorable baby daughter in her arms.

Rebecca Schuld, 42, from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has been working from home amid the coronavirus pandemic.

So when her 13-week-old daughter, Fiona, awoke from her nap just moments before she was set to go live to deliver the weather forecast on CBS 58, she decided to give her viewers an adorable surprise and bring the tot on the air with her.

'Shes prepared. Shes got one of her good thick blankies here for that cold weather thats coming up tonight,' Rebecca said during the segment, while holding the youngster - who didn't make a peep throughout the entire thing.

A meteorologist mom has melted many hearts around the world, after she brought her three-month-old daughter on the air with her while giving the weather forecast

When Rebecca Schuld's 13-week-old daughter, Fiona, awoke from her nap just moments before she was set to deliver the weather, she gave her viewers an adorable surprise

Afterwards, Rebecca, from Milwaukee, said she hopes that other moms, who are balancing working while also being a parent, feel less alone from watching her segment

She brought the tot (pictured) on the air with her, and her little helper was an instant hit - gaining thousands of views and sparking tons of sweet comments from watchers

'I thought she could help me with tonights first weather thats going to be plenty unpleasant, right?'

Little Fiona donned a white onesie and was wrapped in her blanket, as her mom wore a red blouse and gold necklace - which seemed to occupy most of the baby's attention.

Rebecca - who just returned to work from maternity leave - opened up about the heartwarming moment to Yahoo Life, explaining that it was actually her producer's idea to bring Fiona on the show.

'I was just minutes away from having my next weather broadcast, and my baby had just woken up,' she recalled.

'I go over to my green wall. Im holding her and our producer is like, "Oh, your baby, is she gonna make an appearance?"

'I was very confident she was going to behave because she just took a long nap so I knew she'd be happy. I said, "Sure!"'

Rebecca admitted that although she felt guilty for having her daughter intertwine with her work at first, she was proud of herself in the end for being real with her viewers.

Rebecca has been working from home amid the coronavirus pandemic and filming the segments out of her basement

She admitted that at first she felt 'guilty' for having her daughter intertwine with her work, but later felt proud of herself for being real with her viewers. Her daughter, Fiona, is pictured

She said: 'This is real life. It's always a challenge when you have kids in the mix, but that's what so many of us are doing everyday.' She is pictured with Fiona after she was born in October

Rebecca also pushed for other companies to allow their employees, especially new moms, to work from home. Her daughter, Fiona, is pictured after her birth in October

'We're supposed to put on this certain face,' she said. 'For a split second, I felt guilty about it and I don't know why.

'When I sat and thought about it, it's like, why am I guilty? This is real life. This is what everyone else is also doing.

'They work, their kids are sick, or their kids are crying in the background. It's always a challenge when you have kids in the mix, but that's what so many of us are doing everyday. So why are we hiding them?'

Now, she hopes that other moms, who are balancing working while also being a parent, feel less alone.

She continued: 'It was this weird moment where I'm like, wait, why am I guilty? No, this is awesome.

'I am still getting my work done. And, yes, do I have to put a pause on it if there's something going on with the baby? Sure. But that's life, right?'

Rebecca, who films the show out of her basement, said it's an 'absolute privilege' to be able to work from home and spend so much time with her newborn daughter.

'This is an absolute privilege. If you have kids, you know how hard it is to be away from them,' she added.

Many people took to Twitter to gush over the cute ordeal

'So to get done with maternity leave, and because of COVID, them wanting to keep some of us home, it gave me an opportunity to ease back into work life.

'Im able to multitask and still care for her and be there in her life. Some countries have maternity leave for a couple of years, so you're really able to bond with the baby and help raise them instead of, you know, putting them into daycare and then missing milestones.

'She giggles now in the last couple of weeks. She is cooing and all these things that now I had been able to see because I'm here with her. That's the best part.

'Why not work from home if we can utilize technology? Why do we have to be in the office?

'We've got everything here at home. We're doing the same work. And we're able to have a more enriched family life so to me its the best of both worlds.'

Rebecca's little helper was a total hit, with thousands of people have now watched the clip.

It also sparking tons of sweet comments from viewers, with many people taking to Twitter to gush over the cute ordeal.

'That is great,' one person wrote. 'Should do stuff like this more.'

'Crazy amounts of cute during this @CBS58Weather forecast,' another added. 'She's beautiful @RebeccaShuld.'

'Loved seeing @RebeccaShuld on the air with her daughter, Fiona,' someone else said.

A fourth message read: 'Fiona is adorable! Way to represent the work from home moms holding it down! We got this!'
SIOUX CITY -- A Sioux City man has pleaded not guilty of sexually abusing a young girl.

Jourdain St Cyr, 36, entered his written plea Wednesday in Woodbury County District Court to one count of second-degree sexual abuse.

According to court documents, St Cyr had sexual contact on March 3 with a girl who is under age 12. The girl told her mother it had happened while St Cyr was lying with her on a couch.

St Cyr initially told the mother that it was an accident that happened while he was playing with the girl. He later admitted he had touched the girl, court documents said.
The persistence of Maria Catarina Sumarsih, shown holding an umbrella at a 2018 rally, has emboldened thousands of people to join her in raucous demonstrations demanding that Indonesia reckon with the atrocities of its past. (Adek Berry / AFP/Getty Images)

Every Thursday for Maria Catarina Sumarsih begins the same: make breakfast for her husband and daughter, pray the Rosary, prepare the placards, grab her umbrella and head toward the palace, where for the last 15 years she has camped in the tropical heat, protesting the death of her son.

His name was Wawan. A 20-year-old university student who loved his mother's cooking, especially her nasi goreng and satay, he was killed in 1998 when Indonesian soldiers fired on young protesters demanding political reforms. She didnt know at first how to channel her grief other than to visit his grave in the capital city, Jakarta.

But as the years passed, Sumarsih turned despair into anger  at times throwing eggs at members of parliament who had absolved the army of wrongdoing  to become a relentless symbol of a woman seeking justice. Her frail frame and shock of white hair arrive every week at the park in front of the president's colonial-era palace, a reminder that a simple act of defiance carries indelible power in holding a nation accountable for its past sins.

Her umbrella pops open.

Her placards bake in the sun.

The din of the city's notorious traffic does not deter her.

"I transformed my sadness into a fighting spirit," she said.

Sumarsih inspired a human rights movement in an Indonesia that's failed to reckon with a history woven with atrocities.

Families of other victims soon joined her, wearing black and carrying umbrellas in solidarity. They included Suciwati, the wife of Munir Said Thalib, a rights activist poisoned in an assassination believed to have been orchestrated by Indonesias State Intelligence Agency. And former political prisoner Bedjo Untung, who endured years of torture and spoke for the hundreds of thousands killed in anti-communist purges in the 1960s.

The 69-year-old Sumarsih guesses shes been absent only two dozen times, and only because of travel, illness or COVID-19 lockdowns. The police who guard the perimeter of the palace are so accustomed to seeing her that theyve come to call her Mother Sumarsih. Her persistence has emboldened thousands of mostly young people to join her in raucous demonstrations across the island nation. They call it Aksi Kamisan, or Thursday Action.

I cried the first time I came to one of the protests, said Vebrina Monicha, a 23-year-old law student at the same school Wawan attended, Atma Jaya Catholic University. I didnt know much about the wrongs in this country. I lived carefree and never thought about having to fight for something in life.

Indonesia has gradually transformed from an authoritarian state reeling from the Asian financial crisis into the worlds third-largest democracy and Southeast Asias biggest economy. The country of 270 million has grown in geopolitical stature, a vital player in the Biden administrations Indo-Pacific strategy to compete with an increasingly powerful China. Civil society and an independent press persist. Homegrown art and technology are flourishing.

Despite that progress, the country remains unable  and many say unwilling  to reckon with its past. No official accounting has been made of one of the worst atrocities of the last century, when the Suharto government, later called the New Order, killed hundreds of thousands of Indonesians accused of being communists  estimates of the death toll vary from 300,000 to 2 million.

The purge, which began in 1965, targeted perceived opponents of the U.S.-backed dictator and forced millions into prison camps. The frenzy left a gash in the nations psyche thats festered for generations. Across Indonesia, killers still live in neighborhoods side by side with their victims' families, burying their collective trauma in unspoken silence.

Thirty-two years after the slaughter, the country erupted in violence again amid a financial crisis that would lead to the downfall of Suharto. Thousands died as mobs burned down homes and stores. Ethnic Chinese neighborhoods were ransacked and women were raped.

The unrest brought students and pro-democracy supporters to the streets, resulting in three separate mass shootings by soldiers: the Trisakti University shootings, which left four students dead; the first shooting around Atma Jaya university that left 17 people dead, including Wawan; and the second Atma Jaya shooting that left a dozen people dead.

Soldiers club a university student while breaking up a protest outside Indonesia's Defense Ministry in Jakarta on March 31, 1999. (Associated Press)

No senior leaders have been prosecuted for the killings. The impunity reflects the power of the Indonesian military, even decades after Suharto was ousted and replaced with a civilian government. Many of the generals who presided over rights abuses remain in positions of authority, such as the formerly exiled and politically rehabilitated defense minister, Prabowo Subianto, and presidential advisor Wiranto, who headed the Indonesian armed forces during the 1998 shootings.

The military may not be as powerful as before, but it is still the most influential institution in Indonesia, said Made Supriatma, an Indonesia expert and a visiting fellow at Singapores ISEASYusof Ishak Institute. No political regime can survive without the military. The generals who inherited the New Order ideology are still there and still powerful.

Attempts to establish a truth and reconciliation commission foundered over disagreements about whether rights abusers should face criminal charges. In 2020, Atty. Gen. Sanitiar Burhanuddin said the Atma Jaya university killings did not constitute a mass violation of human rights.

The lack of justice has driven some to desperation. Asih Widodo, the 71-year-old father of a civil engineering student killed by army gunfire the same day as Wawan, circles Jakarta on a motorcycle plastered with pictures of the teenager in suit and tie and signs that say, My son was killed by the Indonesian National Armed Forces.

Asih would drive more, he said, if he could afford the gas. The construction worker has struggled to find employment because of his activism. He promised his wife before she died of an illness last February that hed continue drawing attention to their only son, Sigit Prasetyo, who was 18 when he died and is buried next to his mother.

In this ignoble country, there is no justice, Asih said. Indonesia has made me suffer so much.

Sumarsih knows that pain too. She grew up the daughter of peasants in Central Java, about 260 miles from Jakarta. Though she did not attend university, her parents ensured she and her siblings studied and learned to read. Sumarsih started out as a teacher, then landed a job as a secretary in Indonesias parliament. Her husband worked for a private think tank and introduced her to Catholicism.

The pair had a son in 1978, Bernardinus Realino Norma Irmawan, better known to his friends and family as Wawan. Though he was studying economics, Wawan was deeply interested in politics and involved in the student rights movement. He wrote poems imagining a just and harmonious Indonesia.

On Nov. 13, 1998, he was preparing to join thousands of fellow students at Atma Jaya university to protest the selection of Vice President B.J. Habibie as Suhartos successor, a man they viewed as a crony of the former dictator. Sumarsih didn't want her son to go, and that afternoon, soon after he had left, she received a call from a priest. Wawan had been shot.

She remembers the moments that followed in fragments. Praying the Rosary on the way to the hospital. A nurse telling her when she arrived that Wawan had already been moved to the morgue. His warm body lying in repose. A bullet hole the width of a cigarette butt in his chest.

Sumarsih believes Wawan was targeted because he tried to help a wounded protester. Witnesses said he volunteered as a paramedic at the protest, waving a white flag as he tried to reach the injured.

Wawans body was brought home for a vigil. Sumarsih prayed for his killer to be forgiven. Two weeks later, the Indonesian Red Cross Society came to the house offering government grief compensation of 5 million rupiah, the equivalent of $2,300 today. She refused the money and told them to give it to the soldier who shot Wawan  and if they couldnt find him  the troops deployed at Atma Jaya university.

I didnt need the money, she said. I just wanted Wawan alive.

Sumarsih's forgiveness does not diminish her desire for justice. Without accountability, she said, Indonesia cannot progress.

Twenty-four years after her sons death, Sumarsih says shes motivated to protest each Thursday because it would make Wawan proud. Shes also encouraged by the growing number of young people who join her  many driven by new calls for gender equality and LGBTQ rights. The crowds are sometimes met by police intimidation. Demonstrators have occasionally been jailed.

Aksi Kamisan has spread to at least 21 of Indonesias 34 provinces. It also inspired a letter-writing campaign to the president addressing rights abuses still unfolding such as those in the eastern province of West Papua, where native residents have been subjected to extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests and environmental exploitation.

"They exert a moral force," said Vannessa Hearman, a historian of Southeast Asia at Curtin University in Australia who likened Aksi Kamisan to the Women in Black movement in Jerusalem and Argentina's Grandmothers of Plaza de Mayo. "It's very powerful."

Sumarsih and several other victims families met with then-President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in 2008 and President Joko Jokowi Widodo in 2018. Nothing came of the meetings. In 2019, she saw Jokowi emerge from the palace in a motorcade. Sumarsih ran toward him wearing her signature black T-shirt imprinted with Wawans face and shouted, Jokowi, dont lie! Sumarsih said the president turned to her and smirked.

But she will not stop her protest. And when she gets home, Sumarsih, who for years had lost the will to cook, starts dinner and sets an extra plate for her son at the table.

Special correspondent Ng reported from Perth, Australia, and Times staff writer Pierson from Singapore.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : There is no confirmed date for the next round of Corps Commander-level talks between India and China yet, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday.

The MEA was asked about the border tensions between the two nations along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), and the diplomatic initiatives taken to resolve them.

"As you know that the senior Commander-level talks between India and China were held last month. Both sides mutually agreed for the resolution of all the issues of conflict between the two nations as early as possible and go ahead to take initiatives to maintain peace along the LAC. They also talked about ways to strengthen the bilateral relations between India and China," said Arindam Bagchi, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs.

"Both sides agreed to hold the next round of Corps Commander-level talks, but we don't have a date for the next meeting as of now," added Bagchi.

The 14th round of India-China Corps Commander-level talks were held on January 12 at the Chushul-Moldo meeting point.

This Corps Commander-level talks between India and China started after the military face-off in Galwan Valley in June 2020.
Staff Reporter

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The vice ring continues to use all social media platforms to promote flesh trade in Bahrain with its new tool being kids pictures that are posted on many popular Facebook pages. Many parents took to social media to alert the authorities about using childrens pictures to boost vice trade.

Why are the authorities not taking action against these people? They are using pictures of children to boost their trade and this should not be allowed, posted Riyaz Ahmed. Speaking to The Daily Tribune, a Bahrain resident, who is a mother of three (doesnt want to be named in the report), said she is really worried about her childrens pictures being used by members of the prostitution ring.

We regularly post the pictures of our children on Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms as we have relatives and friends across the world. What if those pictures are downloaded and used for these kinds of vice purposes? she asked.

The pictures are mainly posted on popular social media groups in Bahrain. An IT expert told The Daily Tribune that admins of all these social media groups must be held accountable for these postings as it is their duty to scrutinise the content and picture postings across these platforms.

The Daily Tribune earlier reported about all social media platforms being allegedly misused by the vice network to boost flesh trade in Bahrain. The report quoted a citizen as saying: All social media platforms are filled with links posted by members of the vice network, which is very well established.

They post vulgar and indecent pictures of women with an aim to attract potential customers. During the pandemic, the vice network also started going online like other sectors. It is high time the authorities put a brake on these activities or else it will affect the image of our great nation.

Another citizen said he received a WhatsApp call from a foreign number that he hadnt seen before. It was a woman on the other side. She asked me to turn the video call on. I did so and all I could see was a nude woman on the other side, asking me to come to an apartment in Juffair. I abruptly disconnected the call.

There has to be tough action to curb such activities on social media or else it could adversely affect the future of our young generation, he lamented. The Interior Ministry has intensified its efforts against vice trade and its associated crime human trafficking. The Daily Tribune recently published a report in which Global Organised Crime Index highlights Bahrains success against human trafficking.
The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) in the Northern Region has begun clamping down on illegal water connections in the region.

The company shut down an illegal connection at a construction site in the Tamale metropolis.

The two-storey building at the site is allegedly owned by a popular food vendor in Tamale.

The project is situated off the bank of Ghana Street, in the heart of the metropolis.

According to the Public Relations Officer of the GWCL, the water used on the site was connected illegally.

During a visit by a team from the Criminal Investigations Department, Public Utilities Regulations Commission and the GWCL, workers on the project site had already pumped some water from the illegally connected pipe and stored in about three tanks.

The workers, however, denied having knowledge of the illegal activity by the contractor and the owner of the building.

Officials then went ahead to disconnect the pipeline.

In an interview with Citi News, Nicholas Nii Abbey, the GWCL Regional Public Relations Manager for the Northern sector explained that, last night, we got hinted of some illegal connections on this premises. When we came in last night, we realised that, this facility behind us has no documentation with us. What it means is that, she is not in our system as a customer, yet, theyve managed to connect the water to build this structure, right from foundation to the level you are seeing.

Adding that, The PURC and the police have taken notice of everything, and weve disconnected the premises. Our next line of action is to invite her to answer why she has such connection to a facility without any reference and recourse to GWCL

According to the water company, it has lost about 20 percent of its revenue to illegal connections for the year 2021 and the continuous illegal activity by residents is affecting water supply.

The company is already battling with obsolete equipment and erratic power supply.

In light of this, the PRO has warned residents and businesses engaged in illegal connections to desist from such acts or risk being prosecuted.

Within the Tamale Metropolis, it happens that, one of the challenges that we are battling with has to do with illegal connections and in 2022, we are waging a serious war on illegal activities. So this is to serve a notice to the public that who ever is engaged in illegal connection, should be mindful that GWCL will come after them and we mean it, he stressed.

---Citinewsroom
In an optimistic moment in the pandemic, summer camps are a go for 2022
Funding for a new fire alarm at a school in Laois near the Kildare border will enhance security for pupils and teachers, according to Laois Offaly TD and Minister Sean Fleming.

The Minister of State in the Department of Finance confirmed that funding has been approved under the Emergency Works Scheme for the replacement of the fire alarm at Ballyadams National School.

"This is important for the safety and security of staff, students and all who access the building. I am pleased to see these necessary works being planned for the school as the safety of everyone is a priority.

"I would like to acknowledge the great work being done at Ballyadams National school by the Principal and staff. The last 2 years have been difficult due to COVID but the efforts by staff and students allowed learning to continue in a safe environment," he said.

The Minister said the cost of the fire alarm is not announced at this stage.
More than 25 years later, John Douglas Thompson still remembers the summer heat that made him sweat beneath his costume. He remembers lines, too, that have been stored in his brain ever since  like the Hath not a Jew eyes speech, in which his character, the moneylender Shylock, asserts his own humanity.

And then there was the spit. Each performance of The Merchant of Venice, on an outdoor stage at Shakespeare & Company, in western Massachusetts, started with Thompson walking past his fellow cast members while they spat at him, in character: Christians displaying their contempt for a Jew. It felt horrible  he remembers that as well  but it did lock him into the experience of the man he was playing.

Id, you know, wipe it off, Thompson said. And I just had to keep going. I had to suffer that.

He was still training as an actor then, in 1994; his Shylock was part of a student production by the company. But he has long since established himself as one of the most commanding classical actors around, as the critic Ben Brantley once called him. And Shylock, it turns out, is a role that Thompson wanted to revisit.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : An increasing number of women with breast cancer delay their appointments with an oncologist due to a fear of undergoing chemotherapy, said experts here on Thursday, ahead of World Cancer Day on February 4.

Doctors from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals presented an exponential data of at least 100 women out of 150 women (who presented in the last year) with breast cancer but postponed appointments due to fear.

Besides the fear of chemotherapy, the Covid-19 pandemic has added to the fuel in patients for visiting the hospitals for consulting for non-communicable diseases like cancer.

"We live in a country where women between the ages of 35-50 years contribute for at least 50 per cent of the total burden of the active breast cancer (our own data of more than 800 cases from 2007 till 2017,) but still let our fear and hesitancy of undergoing chemotherapy or a surgery of losing a breast come in our ways to consult for a cancer diagnosis," Dr Ramesh Sarin, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.

In women, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer that accounts for almost 26.3 per cent of the entire cancer burden amongst them. Moreover, the fear of being diagnosed with cancer taken as synonymous with death further stops at least 70-80 per cent of women to consult an oncologist on experiencing any kind of known symptoms.

It has been proven by various medical studies that an early diagnosis of cancer can save up to 90 per cent of lives.

There are various advantages linked to early cancer detection, be it better treatment outcomes, non-invasive treatment modalities, or treating the diagnosed condition without chemotherapy. One should be aware towards its own health and be a responsible decision maker, say doctors.

"One should not let one of the treatment modalities decide a decision to consult an expert, it should always be guided by the experienced oncologists. Latest studies are showing that almost 50-60 per cent of a special sub type of breast cancer (HR pos and HER2 Neg) patients can be spared the chemotherapy, if they present early," Sarin said.

Poor lifestyle choices are possibly the biggest reason for increase in breast cancer cases. According to the National Cancer Registry Programme, breast cancer cases are higher in metropolitan cities than in rural areas, indicating that lifestyle changes are contributing to an increase in breast cancer cases among urban women.

"Changes in lifestyle are a known cause of the rising number of breast cancers. Tobacco, as well as passive and active smoking, may also increase the risk of breast cancer. The Body Mass Index, or BMI, is an important metric to comprehend," said Dr Amit Agarwal, Director, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh.

Agarwal recommends mammograms be done at least once or twice a year for all women aged 45 and above.

Further, a regular physical activity regimen can significantly reduced the incidence of cancer in general, including breast cancer. Normally, 150-300 minutes of moderate exercise per week is recommended for women to lower the risk of breast cancer, he said.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Slamming the treasury benches in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, Trinamool Congress MP Jawahar Sircar asked the government who has authorised it to sell the family silver.

Participating in the debate on the Motion of Thanks, he said that the country has never gone through such a bad patch and the flowery language does not mean anything much to those who go hungry.

Speaking on unemployment, he said that over 14 crore people have been pushed into poverty in the last two years whereas 10 crore were lifted out of poverty in ten years from 2006. "25 airports will be handed over on lease period after extracting whatever it is there. Who has authorised you to sell public assets. Six airports were privatised to a friend, procedures were suited for him" Sircar said.

He alleged that the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC)'s worth is Rs 40 lakh crore and it is being sold off to American insurance companies. "We will not forget the massive deaths that happened despite all the drumbeating during the Covid-19 pandemic," he said. "Our civilisation is 5,500 years old, for 5,000 years Indians coalesced and came together, do not try to change that. The officers do not want to serve ar the Centre, can you get the message, they do not want to work with you, force doesn't always work," Sircar said.

Talking about the Central Vista project in Delhi, The TMC lawmaker charged that it was an arrogant display of hubris. They spent Rs 600 crores to redo the Rajpath by putting new lamps and are going to dismantle the National Museum, Vigyan Bhavan, National Archives of India to bring up six buildings, he alleges, adding that Pegasus is the greatest example of how this has become a surveillance state.

Joining the debate, BJD MP Sasmit Patra alleged that Odisha is not getting its dues and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik wrote to the government three times on the issue of the PM Awas Yojana portal. "This portal probably opens for those states that the government wants to favour," he charged.

BJP lawmaker Kamakhya Prasad Tasa while participating in the debate said that PM Modi has shown huge courage working even during the time of COVID-19. Referring to the recently launched rail line Manipur, he spoke about the improved security status of states in the NorthEast region. "You (to Congress) are responsible for extremism in the NorthEast. Earlier people from Assam were not able to visit Manipur or Nagaland, PM Modi has gone there so many times." He said that the people of the NorthEast were earlier treated badly and were considered as outsiders, now the situation in the entire region has changed.

"In Assam, minority areas do not vote for us, but development has reached those panchayats also, we never cancelled the ration card of any minority," Tasa said. "No poor person is upset because of demonetisation, only those who had black money were troubled by it," Tasa claimed.

The debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's speech will resume on Friday.
A triple whammy of sleet, snow and ice has bombarded more than 2,000 miles in the eastern US -- and many Americans are now stuck in the storm with no electricity.

More than 100 million people in 25 states stretching from the Mexican to Canadian borders were under winter weather alerts Thursday, CNN meteorologist Monica Garrett said.

By 7 a.m. ET, about 100,000 people had lost power, according to Poweroutage.us.

The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport closed Thursday morning due to ice and snow, the Federal Aviation Authority said. The airport has had freezing rain since this morning. The FAA said the airport is expected to reopen at 11 a.m. CST.

The "significant winter storm is expected to impact much of the central and Northeastern U.S. through Friday night," said the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center.

More than 20 inches of snow has already piled up in the Colorado Springs area, the weather service said. Parts of Illinois and Indiana are buried under a foot of snow.

In Texas, the storm will test the state's power grid, which suffered catastrophic outages last February. The state said 246 people died -- most of them from hypothermia -- after a snow and ice storm left thousands of Texans without power for weeks.

Leaders of the state's power grid -- Electric Reliability Council of Texas, or ERCOT -- said Wednesday they believe they're prepared to handle the high demands during the storm but also warned there may be local outages due to ice on wires or fallen tree limbs.

By early Thursday morning, more than 48,000 homes and businesses in Texas had no electricity, according to PowerOutage.us. More than 16,000 outages were reported in Oklahoma and nearly 12,000 in Arkansas.

What 'several rounds of winter weather' will look like

As the storm system pushes farther east, forecasters say it will deliver a frigid mix of hazards.

"The system will be prolonged with several rounds of winter weather lasting through Friday for portions of the central U.S. before shifting to the interior Northeast," the weather service said Wednesday.

CNN meteorologists Robert Shackelford and Mike Saenz said these cities are among those under the gun:

Texas : Dallas could end up with a half inch of ice, but freezing rain, sleet and snow were projected to peak Thursday morning. The Dallas Independent School District will be closed Thursday and Friday, officials said. Austin could get a quarter of an inch and a half inch of sleet, with the worst peaking by Thursday afternoon.

: Dallas could end up with a half inch of ice, but freezing rain, sleet and snow were projected to peak Thursday morning. The Dallas Independent School District will be closed Thursday and Friday, officials said. Austin could get a quarter of an inch and a half inch of sleet, with the worst peaking by Thursday afternoon. St. Louis : The city could get another 5 to 8 inches of snow Thursday after already getting about 4 inches in isolated areas. Peak conditions will last through 11 a.m. Thursday.

: The city could get another 5 to 8 inches of snow Thursday after already getting about 4 inches in isolated areas. Peak conditions will last through 11 a.m. Thursday. Memphis, Tennessee : An additional quarter inch to half inch of ice are expected Thursday, when conditions are expected to peak now until 1 p.m. About one tenth of an inch of ice has already been reported.

: An additional quarter inch to half inch of ice are expected Thursday, when conditions are expected to peak now until 1 p.m. About one tenth of an inch of ice has already been reported. Louisville, Kentucky : Up to half an inch of ice is expected to form. Plus, about 1 inch sleet and snow -- each -- is projected to fall. Peak hours for a mixture of freezing rain, snow and sleet are 7 a.m. Thursday through 1 a.m. Friday.

: Up to half an inch of ice is expected to form. Plus, about 1 inch sleet and snow -- each -- is projected to fall. Peak hours for a mixture of freezing rain, snow and sleet are 7 a.m. Thursday through 1 a.m. Friday. Little Rock, Arkansas: The city could get up to a half inch of ice in addition to an inch each of snow and sleet. Peak hours are expected between now and 11 a.m.

The city could get up to a half inch of ice in addition to an inch each of snow and sleet. Peak hours are expected between now and 11 a.m. Oklahoma City: The city just set a new February 2 record for snowfall -- 3 inches on Wednesday -- and could get another 4 inches of snow before the storm is over. Ice accumulation could reach half an inch.

The city just set a new February 2 record for snowfall -- 3 inches on Wednesday -- and could get another 4 inches of snow before the storm is over. Ice accumulation could reach half an inch. Chicago : The Windy City could see up to 4 inches of additional snow piled on top of the nearly 9 inches that already fell.

: The Windy City could see up to 4 inches of additional snow piled on top of the nearly 9 inches that already fell. Indiana : After getting pummeled with more than 11 inches of snow, South Bend could see an additional 2 to 6 inches -- and peak conditions will last until 6 p.m. Thursday. Indianapolis has already gotten 4 inches of snow and could get another 3 inches.

: After getting pummeled with more than 11 inches of snow, South Bend could see an additional 2 to 6 inches -- and peak conditions will last until 6 p.m. Thursday. Indianapolis has already gotten 4 inches of snow and could get another 3 inches. Buffalo, New York: The area could be buried under 7 to 13 inches of snowfall, which is expected to peak Thursday afternoon through evening.

Travel is already miserable

Perilous travel conditions have caused crashes and road closures. In Illinois, officials closed parts of several highways after numerous wrecks.

"The combination of the volumes of snow, high winds, and frigid temperatures make travel near impossible in some areas of the state with several highways shutdown from vehicle crashes and jack-knifed semi-trucks," said Kevin Sur, spokesperson for the Illinois Emergency Management Agency.

In Springfield, a train crashed into a car that got stuck on the tracks due to snow Wednesday night. The driver -- the only person in the car-- was able to get out in time, Springfield police said. No injuries were reported.

Amtrak canceled multiple train routes Thursday in and out of Chicago, including the Cardinal Train 51 to New York. The route between St. Louis and Kansas City is also canceled, Amtrak said.

The mammoth storm also snarled air travel Thursday, which is projected to be one of the 10 worst days for air travel over the past year.

Correction: A previous version of this story overstated the new February 2 snowfall record for Oklahoma City. The new record is 3 inches.

The-CNN-Wire

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Doctor warns of medical totalitarianism after license put under review following podcast

A Hawaiian pastor whose medical license is now under review after having a critical discussion about COVID-19 vaccines and other therapeutic options on a local podcast has raised concerns about medical totalitarianism.

In an interview with The Christian Post, Dr. Kirk Milhoan, a pediatric cardiologist who also pastors at Calvary Chapel-South Maui, explained that when his name came up during a widely-listened to Joe Rogan podcast with Dr. Robert Malone  a co-inventor of mRNA vaccine technology and virologist who has been critical of compulsory vaccine mandates for children and people with natural immunity  he mentioned that Milhoan had been employed by the hospital but was discharged, presumably for publicly sharing his expert opinions.

While Malone was correct in saying that Milhoan had been targeted, what actually happened, he explained, is that state authorities put his medical license under review.

CP reached out to both the Hawaii Medical Board and the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to inquire about the status of Milhoans license review. DCCA replied in an email that it does not advise or comment on matters and investigations that are pending.

During the podcast that some suspect was the impetus for his license going under review, Milhoan discussed the early treatment for the delta variant and the risks, benefits and alternatives in terms of treatment for the virus with Dr. Lorrin Pang, the head of public health for Maui County.

Pang made clear that while he has vaccinated many people for COVID-19, for the purpose of the podcast, hosted by the Pono Coalition for Informed Consent, he was speaking in his personal capacity.

"We were having a standard medical discussion," Milhoan told CP. "But that podcast was sent to a political editor at the Honolulu Advertiser newspaper. And I was interviewed by that person, and I was just trying to tell the reasoning and how our church acts and what I'm involved in. We do this not out of recklessness. I assume a risk in order to care for people who are sick."

This is his calling as a physician and Christian, Milhoan added, referencing the words in Matthew 25:40, where Christ speaks of serving the least of these, that they are doing so as unto Him.

"Whether I have my pastor hat on or my international medical missionary hat on or as the director of our free clinic that is federally authorized in Maui or whether I'm doing temporary work on the mainland in children's hospitals, there are always risks and benefits no matter what I do," he continued.

Yet that discussion was seen as unacceptable.

Milhoan told CP he has no idea what the rationale was for his license being reviewed because he and Pang were subjected to resignation demands, smears and name-calling, including being called "quacks." Among those who chimed in were Hawaii's Lt. Gov. Josh Green and Maui's Mayor Michael Victorino, he said.

Pang told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser in an August interview that as a member of the Pono Coalition for Informed Consent, he was speaking as a private citizen and doesnt always agree with the views of other members of the group. He also emphasized that he backs the states efforts to vaccinate more people against COVID-19. Even so, some were demanding his termination.

If you are going to be guilty by association, thats kind of a form of prejudice, bias and censorship, isnt it? Pang said. I thought in this day and age, we look at people for what they are, not who they associate with.



Milhoan believes the medical establishment is wedded to one narrow narrative about how to handle the virus. The physician told CP that the Federation of State Medical Boards and American boards of pediatrics, internal medicine and family practice have sent out letters saying that if they believe that doctors are not cooperating with the official narrative or sharing "disinformation" they consider unethical, their licenses or certifications can be revoked.

"It's pretty amazing to me because, as a physician, I'm not treating a narrative. I'm treating the patient before me. The responsibility of being a doctor is so great. To me, the only responsibility that is greater is being a pastor. Because if I lead people the wrong way their eternity is at stake, and I'm held responsible for that," Milhoan said.

"Teachers are held to a higher level of responsibility. We are the watchmen on the wall from Ezekiel. If we are not warning them or telling them the truth about eternity, God holds us responsible for that."

He added: "In the same way, in medicine, if I do harm to a patient because I'm serving a governmental entity or an employer or an insurance person, that's egregious to me. The patient-doctor relationship is paramount. They need to be able to trust me that, as it says in the original Hippocratic Oath that I will basically do nothing to kill them."

When Milhoan received the complaint from the medical board that he was spreading misinformation, he was never told what misinformation he was accused of spreading. Describing the risks of any medication, including vaccines that for months were only authorized for emergency use, are simply part of his job, he said.

During this ordeal, no one asked him how his patients were doing. He found out that his medical license was under investigation from a news outlet that called him the same day it went under review. Milhoan, however, said he wasn't formally notified by healthauthoritiesuntil months later. The news outlet called him in August, he recounted, and he finally received a formal letter from the government in November.

The November letter from the Regulated Industries Complaint Office, which he shared with CP, appeared to be a pre-printed form letter and accused him in a general sense of spreading misinformation about COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccinations and the safety and effectiveness of using hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin to treat the respiratory illness.

Milhoansent a reply in the form of a 14-page response letter, saying that the NIH stated in a July guideline update that ivermectin is under evaluation as a potential treatment for COVID-19.

But Milhoan maintains that ivermectin is an approved medication that can, as many other medicines, be used off-label, in light of provisions in the 1994 FDA Modernization Act.

Given that even the NIH considers ivermectin as a potential treatment for COVID-19, it's not unreasonable for me to discuss the potential risks, benefits and alternatives of its use, based on this and other publicly available information, he said.

The NIH currently states on its website that while "some clinical studies showed no benefits or worsening of disease after ivermectin use," others have "reported shorter time to resolution of disease manifestations that were attributed to COVID-19, greater reduction in inflammatory marker levels, shorter time to viral clearance, or lower mortality rates in patients who received ivermectin than in patients who received comparator drugs or placebo."

It further argues that "most of these studies had incomplete information and significant methodological limitations, which make it difficult to exclude common causes of bias."

The agency also states that there is "insufficient evidence" to "recommend either for or against the use of ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19." Ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment has not yet been approved by the FDA.

The second complaint accused Milhoan of prescribing medication that has not been authorized or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for prevention or treatment of COVID-19 to a patient to prevent or treat COVID-19, specifically hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin.

To that accusation, Milhoan wrote in his reply that the FDA itself grants provision for physicians to use approved drugs off label and that its guidelines also apply to the discussion of such use with other physicians.

He told CP that COVID-19 is a multi-stage disease that requires nuance when treating it and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each patient must be treated on a case-by-case basis, he said. When someone comes to him with COVID-19, he examines their comorbidities, the severity, degree of their symptoms and what kind of symptoms they have.

The discussion between a patient and their doctor about where they are, what medications are appropriate, what medications might not be harmful but arent useful either, those are all things we have to take into account and were still in a pandemic, he said.

When someone is having difficulty breathing in front of you, you dont have time to say, You know what? Come back to me in six months after we finish this randomized control trial.' What you do is try things that have worked before. The Koreans showed that hydroxychloroquine, zinc and azithromycin showed improvement," he said.



If theyre showing some early data because the side effect profile is so low when hydroxychloroquine is used appropriately with appropriate doses, then it's worth exploring as an option, he added, noting that the drug is even given over-the-counter in many countries.



The same applies to another drug that has emerged in this space, ivermectin, an anti-parasitic medication. Milhoan maintains the relevant meta-analyses show that the drug can be helpful.

I dont think its necessarily like, Oh my gosh, if I give somebody hydroxychloroquine or ivermectin they dont have any symptoms at all. What Im trying to do first is keep them from dying. And second, keep them out of the hospital. And third, try to ameliorate their symptoms while I keep them out of the hospital, Milhoan explained.

There is a hierarchy of procedures, he continued, noting that when he gives patients these medicines he tells them about the risks and benefits and that they still might experience significant symptoms which may warrant further treatment with stronger drugs, perhaps steroids.

These are all pieces of our armamentarium to treat it as its a multi-faceted approach for a multi-stage disease.

Amid the media misinformation about hydroxychloroquine, the nuances about the drug have gotten lost, he maintains. Hydroxychloroquine is involved primarily in viral replication so it's wise to consider using the drug in the replication stage of the illness, he added. With COVID-19, that stage is within the first week. COVID-19 hospitalizations usually occurseven- to-14 days after infection.

When asked by this reporter what he would say to those who have become convinced that recommending hydroxychloroquine or ivermectin is dangerous, disinformation and constitutes a form of grave medical harm, and thus a review of his license is an appropriate government response, Milhoan urged them to speak to doctors on the ground who are actually treating patients and not merely those commentating on treatment options.

Talk to us who are actually seeing patients and treating them earlier as opposed to saying, Go home and come back to us when you cant breathe. If I use something on an outpatient and it doesnt work, I stop using it. Actually, ask the question and have a discussion with actual people seeing patients and not just talking about it, he reiterated.

Milhoan added that he and his colleagues knew that something suspicious was stirring related to this pandemic when they saw how certain viewpoints and medical perspectives from solid sources were being censored online and by the corporate media.

As soon as they started attacking that, I knew it was wrong. We dont censor in medicine, you just bring out your ideas, you dont censor, he said.

The drug is so safe, he added, that refugees are routinely given ivermectin to treat infections before entering the United States.

This is so disingenuous that they would mock people who would use ivermectin and they would say hydroxychloroquine is not safe? Both of those medicines are safer than Tylenol, Milhoan stressed.

Typically what doctors get in trouble for is that they have harmed someone or have abused the patient-physician relationship, such as sexual harassment or impropriety, he continued. The other major reason is that they were caught in a pattern of substance abuse, perhaps an addiction to alcohol or prescription drugs.

After Milhoan submitted his lengthy response to the license review board, he received a second letteradmitting that the complaint had not originated from one of his patients. The complaint lodged against him had been anonymously filed.

"I don't even know what I've done wrong," he recounted telling the authorities.

"Federally, I'm covered. I was acting within my sphere. I was treating an infectious disease as a pediatrician. We treat infectious diseases all the time. We talk about vaccines all the time. I'm a pro-vax pediatrician."

Milhoan was initially comfortable with the COVID-19 vaccines until he saw the VAERS reports. He also noted a shift in the way past treatments and vaccines had been responsibly scrutinized.

"In 1999, we had a concern with the rotavirus vaccine. After about a year-and-a-half, we took it off the market because we were seeing effects that they were concerned about upfront. But as it got widespread, there were these problems. It was the regulatory oversight that I expected from the CDC for everyone else," he said.

The rotavirus vaccine was closely monitored and when problems persisted it was taken off the market, he reiterated. The signal that health authorities watched for that vaccine was less than 100 cases of adverse reactions. It was summarily taken off the market and another vaccine did not come about until six years later, he added.

"That's how I'm used to our situation working," he explained.

"Right now, besides the COVID vaccine, I would go along with the schedule of vaccines. But I get labeled an 'anti-vaxxer.' People call me a flat-earther. My Ph.D. is in cardiovascular physiology. I can speak to myocarditis in young athletes. This is well within my specialty. I could serve on a trial as an expert witness," Milhoan said.

The subject of his dissertation was on what causes inflammation with heart attacks, what causes the scar, specifically what causes the early stages of inflamed myocardium, which is now called myocarditis.

"I'm not a quack on this, but if we don't speak the 'right' thing, they will destroy you," he said.

Milhoan's wife is also a pediatric cardiac anesthesiologist who has been tracking the latest development and has given presentations on the subject.

"You have to have to follow the money on this," he said. "There are people in control who control things. Why aren't we taking this off the market when we took off rotavirus and we took off swine flu vaccine with much less? There are some control issues and some financial gains."

Another pediatric colleague told him that as recently as two years ago, he never would have questioned the CDC or FDA. He trusted them because he saw how, for example, they had taken appropriate steps to course-correct when things went awry with rotavirus treatments.

Milhoan recounted being told in medical school that when he graduates, most of the medical information that he receives will not be through medical journals but in the Tuesday edition of The New York Times in the medical section. Most doctors are hearing about whatever the legacy media is speaking about and are trusting the old regulatory entities, he said, adding that the top-down culture of silencing is affecting how doctors operate. Many are keeping their heads down.

A pediatric anesthesiologist recently told him: "'Kirk, what in the world are you doing? They are going to destroy you. Because I agree with what you're saying but I'm going to work one more year, pay off my house, and then retire because I don't want to be a part of this medicine anymore.'"

An increasing number of doctors are saying similar things, Milhoan told CP.

"'I'm done with this totalitarian stuff,'" they tell him privately, he said, noting how they're afraid to even discuss certain topics.

Given how even double COVID-vaxxed and boosted people are still contracting the virus, it warrants asking questions about their effectiveness, particularly in children, who are 99.996% likely to survive the virus if they get it, he said.

Milhoan believes that the heavy-handedness with which Pang has been treated reveals that if one deviates ever-so-slightly from the approved narrative about treatment protocols the medical establishment powers-that-be will get you.

Milhoan and Pang continue to scrutinize the emerging data and converse about best treatment practices.

CP asked Milhoan to respond to those who argue  such as the University of California  San Francisco epidemiology and biostatistics professor Vinay Prasad  that the problem was not about a desire for early treatment, but that the drugs Malone and McCullough were suggesting were not effective.

A pooled analysis of all such studies by Axfors and colleagues suggests patients treated with chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine had increased risk of death, Prasad argued in a Jan. 19 essay in UnHerd, adding that ivermectin has not shown persuasive evidence of benefit in randomized trials to date but that both it and hydroxychloroquine had been unfairly demonized.

Milhoan maintained that Prasad is not looking at all the data for early treatment when it's truly early, defining truly early as within the first five days of symptom onset, the sooner the better, referencing a meta-analysis on ivermectin from Dr. Harvey Risch, an epidemiologist and professor at the Yale School of Public Health.

The Hawaiian doctor underscored that he is not opposed to vaccines despite repeatedly being characterized as such.

"I travel around the world and I see how beneficial vaccines can be. I go to places where they don't have the vaccines that we have in the U.S. But what I'm seeing is that people who otherwise trusted vaccines that we use in the U.S. are starting to distrust all vaccines," he lamented.

"If you get a tetanus vaccine are you worried about getting tetanus? No. If you give kids a polio vaccine are you worried about getting polio? No. Now, people are saying 'I'm not going to take any vax.'"
CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicago's oldest business, and the city's first jeweler, is returning to its family-inspired foundation, restoring peacock pride and honoring hometown roots by transferring leadership responsibilities from patriarch Seymour Holtzman to son, Steven Holtzman, as the new vice chairman.

Steven and Qi Holtzman C.D. Peacock rendering of its mansion at Oakbrook Center opening fall 2022

C.D. Peacock announced the months-long succession plan for Steven and his wife, Qi, to assume leadership effective this month. They have relocated from Switzerland to Chicago as the company enters its 185th anniversary year and announces plans for one of the largest watch and jewelry stores of its kind in the flagship mansion planned for the Oakbrook Center opening this late fall. A global industry veteran, Steven's expertise spans three decades in the Swiss luxury watch market, working with the most prestigious retailers in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

"Chicagoans can expect to see C.D. Peacock fanning its vibrant feathers in new places, with unique concepts and strong luxury brand partnerships to serve future generations. We've been our great city's leading jeweler since 1837," noted Steven Holtzman, vice chairman. "Qi and I are honored to be overseeing one of the most exciting times in our company's history," he said.

The Holtzman's plan to incorporate global luxury concepts to influence one of the first-of-its-kind, 20,000 square-foot indoor-outdoor spaces. The flagship mansion will include a lounge, restaurant, and VIP rooms to make C.D. Peacock one of the largest jewelry and watch experiences in the U.S.

"We are Chicago. The House of Peacock was the first registered business in Illinois in 1837. We are proud of our heritage and continue to invest in the region. By significantly boosting the retail sector with another 'first,' C.D. Peacock continues to exceed consumer demands for exceptional quality, impeccable service, and an elevated shopping experience," noted Holtzman.

Holtzman adds, "The investment in our flagship mansion at Oakbrook Center - where 20 million visitors annually spend over 1 billion dollars - is a natural choice as consumer lifestyles and spending shift to the suburbs. Open space, eclectic restaurant offerings and ample free parking combine to provide the perfect backdrop for our new location, which will redefine the way consumers shop for luxury."

About C.D. Peacock

Established in 1837, C.D. Peacock is Chicago's oldest jeweler and premier destination for luxury watch and jewelry brands, including Rolex, Cartier, Tudor, Omega, IWC, Chanel, Hearts on Fire and Mikimoto. Family owned and operated, C.D. Peacock has been helping clients celebrate special occasions for 185 years, providing quality family heirlooms that are passed down for generations. To discover luxury at its finest, visit one of our three boutique locations, Woodfield Mall, Old Orchard Mall, and Oakbrook Center, also where our flagship mansion is planned to open in fall 2022. For more information, visit cdpeacock.com or connect with us on Facebook , Instagram and Pinterest .

Contact: Kellee Johnson, The Ballast Group, [email protected] , 312-751-3959

SOURCE CD Peacock
MISSION, Texas, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Yesterday the North American Butterfly Association (NABA) filed a Motion to Nonsuit the portion of their lawsuit against Steve Bannon's We Build the Wall (WBTW), Brian Kolfage, Fisher Industries and Neuhaus & Sons LLC that Judge Randy Crane chose to keep in federal court.

Illegal 'border wall' built in violation of the IBWC treaty by Fisher Industries for Steve Bannon's We Build the Wall on a sandbar in the Rio Grande River, in Mission, TX

After sitting on NABA's Motion to Remand for over two years, Crane severed NABA's causes of action on January 13, remanding the defamation and disparagement causes to the 398th Judicial District Court in Hidalgo County, Texas; while holding on to the property nuisance portion of the suit against the private "water wall," illegally constructed on the banks of the Rio Grande River.

Since Dec. 2019, Crane has yoked NABA's lawsuit to the U.S. Government's suit on behalf of the International Boundary & Water Commission (IBWC), although the two suits involve completely distinct causes of action, effectively subverting NABA's suit to the government's interests.

When the Assistant U.S. Attorney announced in a joint hearing on Friday, January 14, that the IBWC was in settlement negotiations with Fisher Industries, Crane not only canceled their scheduled trial, but also invited the defendants in NABA's suit to fix and refile their Motion to Dismiss, signaling his willingness to grant them.

This comes on the heels of a string of bizarre actions from Crane who twice argued, falsely, that NABA lacked standing to sue, failed to uphold a U.S. Treaty, and formally recognized former Kansas Secretary of State and WBTW's corporate counsel, Kris Kobach, as "attorney not of record" for the organization.

"Throughout the past two years, Judge Crane's rulings and opinions have been so legally unjustified that one wonders how he was appointed to the federal bench," states Dr. Jeffrey Glassberg, founder and president of NABA and a graduate of Columbia Law School.

"Now, Crane appears to be colluding with the government and Fisher Industries to conceal evidence of this future disaster, which Crane will own," states Marianna Trevino Wright, executive director of NABA's National Butterfly Center and co-plaintiff.

Attorney Javier Pena says NABA and Ms. Wright will be focusing their energy and resources on the state court case, which alleges criminal conspiracy between the defendants designed to bolster their fundraising scheme, for which WBTW's Brian Kolfage, is facing fraud charges in the Southern District of New York.

SOURCE North American Butterfly Association
Four Corners returns on Monday with a bang, screening the first in a 2 part special looking at the upcoming Federal Election.

Episode 1 is likely to set the tone for relations between ABC and government (in a triennial funding year) as it looks at PM Scott Morrisons prospects with the electorate.

A week later the attention turns to Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese.

I look at both major parties and Im really struggling having any kind of trust in either of them. Retired engineer, seat of Corangamite, VIC

Some time in the next four months Australians will head to the ballot box to choose the next Prime Minister. Political strategists, pollsters and the media will be doing all they can to get into the heads of voters, to predict and analyse the outcome. On Monday, Four Corners kicks off a new season with the first in a two-part special focusing on voters as they weigh up their options in key electorates across the nation, to find out what it will take to get their vote.

Part 1: The Incumbent.

Mr Morrison, coming up to where we are today, I dont truly know what you stand for. Management consultant, seat of Gilmore, NSW

Three years after he led the coalition to a miracle election victory, Prime Minister Scott Morrison is asking for another term in office. In this first episode, voters assess the key moments of Scott Morrisons prime ministership, and share their opinions of his leadership.

Hes just a sort of bloke. I mean, I dont think theres anything malicious, or whatever about his attitude. Its just a standard white, middle class male attitude. Retiree, seat of Corangamite, VIC

In frank interviews, these voters  who live in critical electorates and identified themselves as undecided  deliver a report card on everything from the unfolding pandemic to climate policy and matters of trust.

People attack him about being a liar. I wouldnt go as far as saying necessarily a liar, but I think in some cases hes sly. So, I dont think he always tells everything a hundred percent because hes got other motives. Media sales consultant, seat of Gilmore, NSW

They dont shy away from voicing their opinions on the contentious moments of Scott Morrisons prime ministership.

He does not accept any mistakes. So he just tries to go around, round, round, in order to justify what his actions were. But he, he really does not accept any mistakes. Civil engineer, seat of Parramatta, NSW

Many have strong praise for the big decisions taken by the PM to guide the nation through the economic crisis caused by COVID-19.

It was good policy, it was necessary. People were losing jobs and businesses were going under. And it was only through the Job Keeper that they could actually keep people employed, and so that was super important. Pharmacist, seat of Chisholm, VIC

But the governments response to the spread of the Omicron variant has also fuelled frustration.

I dont think theres been much foresight, trying to see well what could be the next thing happening down the track? What can we possibly foresee or prepare for in future?. I dont think hes done very well with that. And I think people might reflect on that. Tax auditor, seat of Cowan, WA

This cross section of voters provide an insightful portrait of Scott Morrisons prime ministership and the questions hell need to answer to persuade Australians to give him another go.

I generally do not make up my final decision until probably a couple of weeks before the electionits a long time in politics. Just a couple of weeks (and) a lot can change. Administration & accounts officer, seat of Longman, QLD

The following week, in part two of this special, the voters turn their attention to Labor leader Anthony Albanese.

I think when I first heard that Anthony Albanese had taken over as leader, I think my first opinion was scratching my head going, Really? Is he the best theyve got? Media sales consultant, seat of Gilmore, NSW

Election 22: Australias Choice, reported by Sean Nicholls.Part 1 goes to air on Monday 7th February at 8.30pm.
Kishore Biyani's (FRL) has sought two weeks from the Supreme Court (SC) to hammer out a solution with lenders on the issue of clearing dues and avoid being tagged a non-performing asset (NPA).
Following yesterdays news that India is expecting a data centre development boom, activity in that sector also seems to be ramping up in Saudi Arabia, where internal and external investors have announced big plans.

Telecommunications services company STC has said it plans to transfer its data centre, international submarine cables, and international points of presence assets to a new wholly-owned subsidiary.

The new company is valued at about $559.7 million, but nearly half a billion dollars is expected to be injected into the enterprise whose aim is to attract more foreign investment into digital infrastructure in the kingdom and to boost Saudi Arabias current position as the regions digital hub.

In fact foreign investment is already happening. Earlier this week Huawei signed a strategic agreement with STC to set up local data centres in the Kingdom; the deal will see manufacturing facilities for data centre equipment and hardware established in Saudi Arabia.

Huawei also announced plans to launch a cloud region in Saudi Arabia, though concrete details on how this will be carried out are not yet available.

And of course Neom, the company behind the futuristic city of the same name, has plans to build hyperscale data centres in the new smart city on the Red Sea coast.

The company has said that the new facilities  to be developed in partnership with infrastructure developer Ezdihar Advanced Company for Information Technology (EzdiTek)  will be operated by a new company known as ZeroPoint DC.

This news comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is planning a number of major investments to support its growth in non-oil industries, including, as we reported yesterday, $6.4 billion of investments in future technology.
TORONTO, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Petrolympic Ltd. (TSX.V:PCQ) (OTC:PCQRF) (the Company) is pleased to announce that the TSX Venture Exchange has accepted for filling the documentation pertaining to a purchase agreement dated November 16, 2021, between the Company and the vendors. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company will acquire three (3) Mining Claims covering 75 Ha (the Property) and located in the heart of the previously purchased Evangeline Lake gold property.



As consideration, the Company will issue to the vendor an aggregate of 200,000 common shares of the Company. Upon the completion of the transaction the Company will have acquired 100% interest in the mineral rights of the Property. The vendors will also receive a 2.0% net smelter return (NSR) royalty from all eventual commercial mineral production on the project. For further details, please refer to the Companys new release dated November 24, 2021 (filed on www.sedar.com).

The gold potential of the Evangeline Lake gold property, as outlined in a previous press release dated November 11, 2020 (filed on www.sedar.com), includes the following key elements:

The Evangeline Lake property lies within a belt of Huronian metasediments which strikes east-west for a distance of 53 kilometers. Numerous gold occurrences are found and several old gold and silver producing mines were active during the late 1930's and early 1940's within this metasedimentary belt. These mines include the McMillan Gold Mine, Majestic Mine, Bousquet Mine, Hawry Creek Mine and Upsala Mine.

The mineralogical and structural nature of the gold mineralization in Evangeline Lake property is similar to the before-mentioned gold properties. The gold bearing quartz-carbonate veins in the area are apparently associated within and at the contacts of folded quartzite and pelite units in close proximity to diabase sills and dikes. Gold occurs in its native state and intimately associated with arsenopyrite, pyrite, pyrrhotite and chalcopyrite. The gold bearing vein systems are associated with fault/shear zone environments and at pelite/quartzite contacts.

Bob Tough Gold Mines Limited carried out surface exploration and diamond drilling on the Property. Based on these results, a three-compartment shaft was sunk to the 150-feet level, where 118 feet of cross cutting was completed. Gold values up to 6.6 g/t Au over 1.36 m were recorded for holes drilled by the company during the late 1930's.

Grab samples taken from the rock dump and old pits on the Bob Tough Gold Mine have yielded gold value from trace to 25.9 grams per ton (Report 41I04NW0046). In June of 1984, J. K. Filo (1984) mapped the area and reported assay values from dump material samples near an old shaft. Gold values range between 0.0125 and 112.8 g/t of gold in these samples (Report 41I04NW0045).

In 1988 a geophysical survey was done on the property. The contoured Magnetometer/VLF-KM surveys outlined numerous EW trending conductors and magnetic anomalies.

Based on these promising evidence, a thorough exploration program including geological and geophysical surveys will be prepared to generate targets for more detailed exploration works.

Qualified Person

The technical contents of this press release were approved by George Yordanov, professional geologist, an Independent Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

For further information please contact:

Mendel Ekstein

President

82 Richmond St East

Toronto, ON M5C 1P1

Tel. 845-656-0184 Fax 845-231-6665

This news release contains information about adjacent properties on which the Company has no right to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATIONS SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain information contained or incorporated by reference in this press release, including any information regarding the proposed acquisition, constitutes "forward-looking statements." All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, geological and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include but are not limited to: economic and global market impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, fluctuations in market prices, exploration and exploitation successes, continued availability of capital and financing, changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls, regulations, expropriation or nationalization of property and general political, economic, market or business conditions. Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release, or incorporated by reference, are qualified by these cautionary statements. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Tamil Nadu government has moved the Supreme Court challenging the Madras High Court order directing a CBI probe into suicide of a 17-year-old girl on her father's petition amid allegations of forced conversion.

The father of the deceased has also filed a caveat requesting the apex court not to pass any order, without hearing him in the matter.

In a video, the girl purportedly stated that her school warden allegedly asked her to convert to Christianity, but she turned down the request and since then, she was troubled.

The 17-year-old girl, studying at a school in Michaelpatti, consumed poison on January 9 and died on January 19 at a hospital. The police have registered a case.

The Tamil Nadu government, through the DGP, challenged the validity of the order passed by a single judge bench of the high court's Madurai bench.

The high court ordered the transfer of the case to the CBI, days after a 45-second video was released in which the girl is purportedly heard saying the warden of a Christian residential school asked her parents to convert to Christianity. It also made strong observations against the Tamil Nadu government and Thanjavur district police over their attempts to disrupt the investigation.

The Tamil Nadu government, in the petition, has questioned the order, citing that the police and the Education Minister, had ruled out a conversion angle in the matter.

On January 21, the girl's father filed the petition seeking a CB-CID probe but later he sought a CBI probe.

The mobile phone which was used to record the girl's video has been sent to a forensic lab in Chennai for examination on the court's directions.
Three Taiwan-based airlines, including newcomer StarLux Airlines, could be bringing in nearly 20,000 seats to Guam in the next eight months, according to Guam Visitors Bureau officials on Thursday.

There are currently no direct flights from Taiwan to Guam, but recent travel from there was through connecting flights such as through Seoul or Narita.

Moreover, Taiwan still requires a mandatory 14-day COVID-19 quarantine upon arrival, including those who would travel from Guam. Taiwan is also experiencing spikes in omicron-linked cases.

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Guam, meanwhile, has lifted its quarantine for fully vaccinated passengers since early last year. International travelers, however, are still required to show a negative PCR test.

China Airlines is forecast to resume its Guam flights in March starting with 1,066 air seats, bringing total seats to 13,539 by October, based on discussions from GVB's Taiwan Committee meeting.

GVB's Taiwan Committee also forecasts 6,373 combined air seats from both Eva Air and Starlux Airlines starting from June to October.

Felix Yen, director of GVB's Taiwan Office, said the estimated 19,912 air seats are dependent on the three airlines' final decision to fly and the easing of quarantine for travelers going to Taiwan from Guam.

Yen cited his recent communication with StarLux director of passenger sales Joshua Chen that "Guam is one of the priority routes among the 15 planned North American routes."

China Airlines officials also recently shared that flights to Guam have always been planned and look forward to resuming the flights after the pandemic stabilizes, Yen said.

Eva Air Junior Vice President Amy Cho, according to GVB's Yen, recently touted Eva Air's role in bringing in more than 2,000 passengers from Taiwan for them to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and vacation to Guam under GVB's Air V&V program.

Yen said Eva Air looks forward to the resumption of flights after the Taiwanese government lifts its quarantine policy.

Just like all source markets, Taiwan arrivals plunged to record lows during the pandemic. GVB data shows arrivals from Taiwan reached only 4,601 in 2020 and further down to 2,267 in 2021. The Taiwanese arrivals represent only 3% of the total market mix in 2021, GVB data shows.

Prior to the pandemic, in January 2020, arrivals from Taiwan reached 1,682. By January 2021, that number was only seven, and then to 11 from Jan. 1 to 24, 2022, GVB data shows.

Korea and Japan remain Guam's main tourism markets.
COMPILED BY ANDREW CAIN

February 2, 2022

BRIDGEWATER MOURNS

Lyndon German and Eric Kolenich report that the Rockingham County and Bridgewater College communities joined Wednesday to grieve the loss of campus police officer John Painter and Vashon "J.J." Jefferson, a campus safety officer.

In a show of solidarity, some sang the school's alma mater, "Bridgewater Fair," as the campus contemplated and coped with the officers' shooting deaths on Tuesday.

Janita Daggy, who graduated in 2007, was among former Bridgewater students and faculty members who returned on Wednesday.

I guess the phrase that stays in my mind is 'once an eagle, always an eagle,  Daggy said as tears started to well in her eyes. Once you're family, you're always family." READ MORE

German and Reed Williams report that the suspect, Alexander Wyatt Campbell, a 27-year-old former Bridgewater student from Hanover County, was arraigned Wednesday on murder counts and on a firearms charge.

Williams reports that the suspect's mother says he is mentally ill.

"My son is mentally ill and he did something that I could not control and no one could come to help him," Cheryl Campbell told the Richmond Times-Dispatch in her Hanover home.

"I'm sorry for what has happened. I could not prevent it." READ MORE

WHAT'S NEXT?

Tax bills: On Thursday afternoon a Senate Finance subcommittee takes up tax legislation, including the bill from Sen. Emmett Hanger, R-Augusta, to provide income tax refunds.

WHAT WE'RE TALKING ABOUT

'New venue': Michael Phillips reports that Jason Wright, president of the NFL's newly christened Washington Commanders, says the team will be "in a new venue in 2027." READ MORE

Masks: Michael Martz reports that an Arlington judge says her ruling on Gov. Glenn Youngkin's school masks order will hinge on who has the authority to decide such matters. READ MORE

Taxes: Martz reports that a Democratic-led Senate panel delayed action on grocery tax repeal. Later Wednesday, a GOP-led House panel advanced a bill to eliminate the grocery tax and three other parts of Gov. Glenn Youngkin's tax-cut agenda. READ MORE

Reynolds rap sheet?: Mark Bowes reports that a former financial aid director for Reynolds Community College is charged with stealing nearly $400,000 in student loan funds. READ MORE

Schapiro: Politics columnist Jeff Schapiro writes that Virginia political history is repeating itself as farce. READ MORE

TRAGEDY AMID CHANGE

The last person Virginia put to death was William Morva. He was executed July 6, 2017 for murdering Eric Sutphin, a deputy sheriff, and Derrick McFarland, an unarmed hospital security guard, during a 2006 escape in Blacksburg.

Five years later, Alexander Wyatt Campbell faces charges of first-degree murder, aggravated murder of a law enforcement officer, aggravated murder of multiple persons, aggravated murder of multiple persons within a three-year period, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

If Campbell were convicted in Tuesday's shooting deaths of Bridgewater campus police officer John Painter and campus safety officer Vashon "J.J." Jefferson, he would face up to life in prison. Last March, Gov. Ralph Northam signed legislation making Virginia the first state in the South to bar the death penalty.

As in the Morva case, mental health likely will be an issue.

"It is about mental illness and how we have no control over that, the way society is right now," Campbell's mother, Cheryl Campbell, told Reed Williams of The Times-Dispatch Wednesday. "I can't help my son."

Campbell's lawyer says his client will undergo a mental exam.

Our Frank Green reported in 2017 that Morva's lawyers said he suffered from a chronic psychotic disorder, diagnosed years after his trial. Gov. Terry McAuliffe let Morva's execution proceed, noting that pretrial experts had found that "while he may have personality disorders, he did not suffer from any condition that would have prevented him from committing these acts consciously and fully understanding their consequences."

With the abolishment of the death penalty, Virginia governors no longer have to make such agonizing calls.

The point here is not to relitigate the death penalty or to advocate on either side of the issue. It's to note that the Bridgewater tragedy comes in a time of profound policy changes in Virginia and that - wherever you stand on the issues - elections matter.

IN OTHER NEWS

* Greg Gilligan reports that home prices surged last year in the Richmond region as inventory remains low. READ MORE

 Chris Suarez reports that Richmond city employees are about to receive bonuses of $3,000 or $1,500. READ MORE

 Patrick Wilson reports that Andrew Wheeler, Gov. Glenn Youngkin's nominee for secretary of natural resources, reported at least half a million dollars in fund investments. READ MORE

 Michael Martz reports that Spotsylvania supervisor David Ross has jumped into the GOP field in the new 7th Congressional District. READ MORE

PHOTO OF THE DAY

QUOTE OF THE DAY

I suppose there's room for two Commanders in this town."
The musical society within Colaiste Iosagain in Portarlington has paid tribute to beloved teacher Emily Seery who passed away earlier this week.

Emily, from Edenderry, was a French and German teacher at the Laois Offaly secondary school for 11 years and was heavily involved in the school's musical productions in that time.

Her colleagues there have described her as "the brightest star in the show" and remembered her "passion" and "devotion" to both the shows and the students she directed in them.

Colaiste Iosagain Musicals posted a poignant tribute to Emily on Tuesday evening. Emily passed away suddenly, aged 34, on Monday morning, January 31, hours before she was due to greet her colleagues and students at Colaiste Iosagain.

"It is with sad and heavy hearts that we pay tribute to Colaiste Iosagain's brightest shining star Ms Emily Seery," they said.

"Emily Seery was first and foremost a language teacher having started in Colaiste Iosagain in 2011, but her true passion in life was singing, dancing and drama. During her 11 years in our school, Emily Seery brought that passion to school life through her involvement in the musical productions, Grease, Hairspray and Clueless.

ABOVE: Emily (centre) with her colleagues planning one of her cherished musical productions

"Emily's love of directing the school musicals was evident in all rehearsals. She devoted countless hours of her time to these productions, staying late into the winter evenings and coming to school on weekends and through midterms to ensure that the best possible show was produced," her colleagues recalled.

"Emily's attention to detail was extraordinary. She analysed each and every performance and strived to make improvements for every show. Her dedication to each production was very obvious. Her acting skills were her huge forte. She was a born actor and could transform on stage.

ABOVE: Emily is presented with flowers from one of her students and performers

"In particular, Emily's development of character stands out, how her tone of voice and body language could switch from Danny in Grease to Sandy in a split second. She was able to get into the shoes of any character in the show and display it so simply to the students. Emily brought out the best in all the students, encouraging them to achieve their full potential on stage.

Emily especially loved the production of Grease as she had previously performed as Frenchy when she was a student in school.

"She was also especially good at keeping Mr Mitchell calm when he got high or excited about different aspects of rehearsals and production," they joked.

They remembered that Emily loved nothing better than show night and said she is fondly remembered for her "invigorating pre-show pep talks."

"During the show, you would find her in the pit reciting the script line by line. She will always be remembered for the glamour and style she brought to each show night.

ABOVE: Emily embraces one of her students after a show

"Emily Seery's radiance was infectious. She was a born performer, the brightest star in the show. She had amazing character and spirit. She was a great woman to tell a story and make us all laugh. She was the style queen, an actress, an inspiring teacher and a great colleague and friend who will be missed by us all.

"We are devastated to have lost a member of the dream team, our teacher, our colleague, our friend.

"We offer our sincerest condolences to her husband Vinny, her son Louie, her parents, family and friends. Ar dheis de go raibh a h-anam," they concluded.

ABOVE: Emily (centre in the gold jacket) with her colleagues and students during the production of Grease at Colaiste Iosagain

Funeral Arrangements:

Emily will be sadly missed and forever remembered by her loving family, her husband and best friend Vinny, her adored son Louie, parents Gerry and Yvonne, brother Billy (R.I.P.), parents-in-law Olive and Reggie, brother-in-law David, grandmother Colette, extended family, relatives and friends.

Emily will repose at her parent's house Fennville, Carrick Road, Edenderry (Eircode R45 DT68) this Wednesday from 12 noon to 6pm. Please wear a face covering. Emily's Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday at 2.30pm in St. Mary's Church, Edenderry followed by burial in St. Mary's Cemetery. You can also take part in Emily's Funeral Mass on the Edenderry Parish Webcam via HERE.
(Newser)  The parents of a Minnesota man allege in a lawsuit that he has been unresponsive and requires constant medical care since being forced to drink a bottle of vodka at a fraternity at the University of Missouri, reports the AP. Daniel Santulli, 19, of Eden Prairie, Minn., was found in cardiac arrest inside a car at University Hospital on Oct. 20, according to the lawsuit. His blood alcohol content was 0.486%, more than six times the legal limit for driving, reports the Columbia Missourian. The lawsuit contends Santulli and the rest of his pledge class at Phi Gamma Delta were each forced to drink a bottle of hard liquor, given to them by their "pledge fathers."

Santulli remains "unresponsive, unaware of his surroundings, unable to communicate, and [with] a significant injury to his brain," according to the lawsuit. The complaint names the national Phi Gamma Delta organization and individual members of the Missouri chapter. The national fraternity and university both suspended the Missouri chapter following Santulli's hospitalization. Ron Caudill, the fraternity's national executive director, said in a statement that the fraternity is reviewing the lawsuit.

"We expect all chapters and members to follow the law and abide by the fraternity's policies, which prohibit hazing and the provision of alcohol to minors," he said. Attorney David Bianchi, the family's attorney who specializes in hazing litigation, said Santulli's injury was not an isolated event. "These are part of a pattern of unsafe and dangerous behavior that represents the traditions of the fraternity," he said. Since 2017, Phi Gamma Delta, also known as Fiji, has six documented violations of alcohol distribution policies and two hazing violations at Missouri, according to university records.

(Read more hazing stories.)
ACCRA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Thursday here urged collective and decisive action to subdue the resurgence of political instability in West Africa.

Opening the extraordinary summit by leaders of the regional body in the Ghanaian capital, Akufo-Addo urged the subregional bloc to ensure the protection of democracy in the region and find a sustainable solution to the resurgence of the canker of military coups.

"Let us address this dangerous trend collectively and decisively before it devastates the whole region. The resurgence of coups in the region is a matter of grave concern, and the evolution challenges the democratic way of life we have chosen," he stated.

In that regard, Akufo-Addo applauded President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea Bissau for foiling an attempted coup against his government on Tuesday.

The heads of state and their representatives from 12 of the 15 ECOWAS member states present at the summit will assess the political situation in Burkina Faso following the military coup and the situation in Mali and Guinea. 
Chennai, Feb 3 : Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi has returned the Bill seeking exemption from NEET for the state to the Speaker for reconsideration of the assembly as it is against the interests of the students, said Raj Bhavan.

The Bill was passed by the assembly on September 13, 2021.

A statement issued by the Raj Bhavan said the Governor was of the opinion that the Bill is against the interests of the students, especially the rural and economically poor students of the state.

"Hence, the Hon'ble Governor has returned the Bill to the Hon'ble Speaker, Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on February 01, 2022, giving detailed reasons, for its reconsideration by the House," the Raj Bhavan said.

According to the statement, Ravi came to the conclusion after a detailed study of the Bill for admission to Undergraduate Medical Courses seeking exemption from NEET, and the report of the committee constituted by the state government in this regard.

The committee's report was the basis of the Bill. Ravi also examined the pre-NEET status of social justice in medical admissions especially for students coming from socially and economically poor backgrounds while arriving at his conclusion.

The Supreme Court in the Christian Medical College, Vellore Association Vs. Union of India (2020) case also comprehensively examined the issue specially from the social justice perspective and upheld NEET as it prevents economic exploitation of poor students and is in furtherance of social justice, the statement said.
The Government will soon bring forward a package of measures to tackle the cost-of-living crisis, Leo Varadkar has said.

The Tanaiste told the Dail that the Government accepts it has not done enough to support households facing financial pressure.

Sinn Fein finance spokesman Pearse Doherty, whose party has accused the Government of being out of touch on the issue, told the Dail there is no doubt people are facing a cost-of-living crisis.

Referring to the cost of rent and housing, as well as childcare costs, he said: Putting food on the table and running your car has never been more expensive.

Prices will continue to rise, with workers and families under pressure like never before.

He added that the Government has failed to come up with a comprehensive plan to support people.

The Irish people deserve a Government that understands the difficulties they are facing.

He called for a five-euro increase in core social welfare rates, as well as the cancellation of a planned increase in the carbon tax in May.

The Government trades in soundbites and selective leaks, he said.

Mr Varadkar responded that the Government acknowledges that the cost of living is rising and is rising very, very fast.

People are feeling the squeeze, he said.

Everyone is feeling it in their pocket.

He also said that those on the lowest incomes are being hardest hit.

We acknowledge though that the action we have taken to help families on the cost of living is not enough.

He promised a package of measures to help families with the cost of living, which he said is currently being worked on.

He added that the Cabinet economic committee will meet next week to examine options.

We will make a decision on it and we will make it soon, certainly in the next couple of weeks, he said.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Considerable clouds this morning. Some decrease in clouds later in the day. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 54F. Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low around 40F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph.
An extensive investigation reveals that the Church in New Zealand has received 1,680 reports of abuse against Catholic clergy, men and women religious, and lay people from 1950 to today, with the President of the New Zealand's Bishops describing the findings as horrifying.

By Lisa Zengarini

The New Zealand Catholic Church has revealed that 14 percent of its diocesan clergy (nearly one in seven) has been accused of abusing children and adults since 1950.

The figures emerge from an extensive research conducted at the request of the Royal Commission on Abuse in Care, which was set up in 2018 by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.



1,680 complaints

The Te Ropu Tautoko, the team that coordinates Church engagement with the Royal Commission, published its findings on 1 February, a statement reports.

The two-year inquiry revealed that the Church received 1,680 reports by 1,122 individuals against Catholic clergy, brothers, nuns, sisters, and lay people from 1950 to the present day, of which 592 were named.

Almost half the reported abuse involved sexual harm. The 1960s and 1970s were the decades with the most abuse reported, with 75 percent dated before 1990.

Te Ropu Tautoko collected and examined information from the countrys six Catholic dioceses and from 43 Catholic religious congregations (also known as religious institutes, orders or associations). The research included records of 428 Catholic parishes, 370 Catholic schools, and 67 other care institutions.

According to the research team's fact sheet, 378 reports were made about 182 (14 percent) of diocesan clergy, 599 reports were made about 187 brothers and priests belonging to religious congregations (8 percent ) and 258 reports about 120 women religious (3 percent).

A total of 138 allegations of abuse were made against 103 mostly lay staff, volunteers, and other people involved with the Church.

Sexual abuse on children

Of the 1,680 complaints, 1,350 involved children and 164 involved adults, with the age of a further 167 not established by the research. 835 were reports of sexual harm against a child.

Of the total, 687 relate to educational facilities, 425 to residential care, 228 to parishes, and 122 to other locations, with the remaining 219 at unidentified locations.

Listen to our report

Not all alleged abusers identified

The study only covers recorded reports, therefore the records fail to represent all abuse that has happened in the care of the Catholic Church. Also, not all the alleged abusers were identified  308 of the reports were against unidentified people.

A total of 1,296 reports were against 592 named alleged abusers. Of those 592, 393 had one report about them, 143 had two to four reports, 40 had five to nine, 10 had 10 to 14, and six had 15 or more. Those six accounted for more than 10 percent of all reports of alleged abuse.

Cardinal Dew: "horrifying" figures

Cardinal John Dew, President of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference (NZCBC), has decribed the figures as horrifying and something the Church is deeply ashamed of.

He expressed his gratefulness for the work done and reiterated the Bishops commitment to building a safer Church for everyone.

I am grateful that so much work has been done in researching the details and making them public. As we continue to respond to the Royal Commission into Abuse and we build a safer Church for everyone, I firmly hope that facts like these will help us to face the sad reality. The Church will learn from this and affirm its commitment to the work of safeguarding.

Commenting the findings, Sister Margaret Anne Mills, President of the Congregational Leaders Conference of Aotearoa New Zealand, highlighted the need for all Church leaders to acknowledge the harm done and to focus on healing.



Being involved in being part of healing that harm, as much as is possible, is, and needs to continue to be, our focus. All Church leaders need to urgently understand and acknowledge our shared history; understand and acknowledge the shocking impact of abuse in church settings on victims and their families; understand what it means for survivors and our faith communities; and act today.

The Royal Commission thanked all survivors who have come forward to help its enquiry. The research is startling, and the heart-breaking reality is that helpless and vulnerable children and adults sit behind these facts and figures, a statement says.

Royal Commission investigating further

The publication of the research comes a few days ahead of Commissions hearings that will investigate events at Christchurchs Marylands School, a Catholic residential school for boys, many with disabilities, run from the 1950s to 1984 by the Hospitaller Order of St John of God brothers, also known as Fatebenefratelli.

It is also looking into any abuse by the brothers at Hebron Trust, a Christchurch facility for at-risk youth operated by one of the brothers, and abuse by the brothers at Marylands against residents of the neighbouring St Josephs orphanage run by the Sisters of Nazareth.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The controversy surrounding New Zealand journalist Charlotte Bellis, who has now accepted a place in border quarantine after initially seeking refuge in Afghanistan when her first application was declined, has highlighted confusion and concern over New Zealand's managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) system.

Cabinet ministers are currently discussing changes to MIQ as part of a plan to reopen New Zealand's borders, expected to be announced later today. This will update a staged timeline announced late last year, which was pushed back when the Omicron variant emerged overseas.

Since New Zealand's MIQ system was established at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has intercepted more than 2000 cases at the border. Over half of these have been found in the two months since the start of December, following Omicron's rise to global dominance.

If New Zealand had removed the requirement for international arrivals to go through MIQ last year, we would almost certainly have faced a large Omicron wave during December and January, just as happened in many Australian states. Does this matter, given we are now facing an Omicron wave anyway?

The answer is a clear yes.

By delaying the start of the Omicron outbreak New Zealand has bought valuable time to prepare. This has allowed for the build-up of supplies of rapid antigen tests, which will be needed when case numbers take off, and work on improved ventilation in schools.

Requiring managed isolation for people arriving from overseas is one part of why NZ has done so well in protecting life during the pandemic. It undoubtedly delayed an omicron outbreak. It is possible to distinguish between flawed administration of MIQ, and requiring MIQ itself.  Max Harris (@maxdnharris) January 31, 2022

It has also enabled us to reduce the number of Delta cases to very low levels, lowering the chances of a "dual epidemic" with Omicron dominating cases but Delta adding significant extra demand on hospitals and intensive care units.

Boosted and better prepared

We have also learnt a lot about Omicron itself in the past two months, allowing us to adjust our response. But most crucially, the delay tactics have provided time to increase collective immunity by rolling out booster doses and starting vaccination of 5-11-year-olds.

Over 1.3 million New Zealanders have now been boosted, including some of our higher-risk groups. And about one in three 5-11-year-olds has had their first dose.

Boosters are essential for providing high levels of protection against serious illness with Omicron. Data from the UK Health Security Agency estimate that, about three months after the second dose, the risk of being hospitalised with COVID-19 is about half that of an unvaccinated person. After a booster, this drops to about one tenth of the risk of an unvaccinated person.

New Zealand needs to keep up the momentum of the booster programme and childhood vaccine rollout. Without the additional immunity boosters have given older age groups over the last two months, we would now be facing significantly higher levels of severe illness and death than we are.

Does New Zealand still need MIQ?

There are currently 100-200 COVID-19 cases in the community each day and 40-70 cases in MIQ. If we removed the requirement for people to quarantine, we would very likely see a big increase in the number of people travelling to New Zealand. This could easily translate into several hundred cases per day arriving at the border.

Our recent modelling shows home isolation and testing requirements could reduce the risk of community transmission from international arrivals by up to 80%. But even in the best-case scenario, we would be adding about a hundred new chains of transmission to the community outbreak every day.

These transmission chains would grow exponentially, significantly accelerating the outbreak and adding to the pressure on our contact tracing and healthcare systems.

For now, MIQ is continuing to do an important job of slowing down the outbreak and buying us more time. This is an essential part of New Zealand's strategy to flatten the curve and avoid overwhelming healthcare capacity.

Once there are several thousand cases per day, adding a few hundred border cases will start to become less important. Relaxing border restrictions at this point would make sense: it would be reasonable to accept a higher level of risk at the border, provided no new variant of concern emerges.

MIQ capacity could be used more effectively for high-risk community cases who are unable to isolate at home.

The future of MIQ

Over the course of the pandemic, there have been four notable community outbreaks that likely originated from MIQ facilities (August 2020, February 2021, August 2021 and the current Omicron outbreak). There have also been several near misses, many of which were prevented from causing a larger outbreak by routine testing of border workers.

MIQ has been one of the main reasons New Zealand has managed to avoid the massive death tolls seen in other countries.

Thanks to highly effective vaccines, New Zealand has now moved away from the elimination strategy. But SARS-CoV-2 continues to surprise us with new variants.

Although Omicron is less severe than the Delta variant, it is not mild and still poses a major threat to health systems because of the sheer number of cases it can cause. Delaying the arrival of Omicron into New Zealand has likely saved lives.

The New Zealand government faces some tough decisions. There is an understandable desire to make it easier for people to cross the border, but it is unlikely Omicron will be the last variant this pandemic throws at us.

Unfortunately, there's no guarantee the next variant won't be more severe or better able to evade existing immunity. If a dangerous new variant does emerge, the ability to quickly stand up MIQ facilities once again could prove invaluable.

Explore further New Zealand announces measures to keep out omicron variant

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
BUDAPEST, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- The government of Hungary has decided to extend until May 1 the validity of the official COVID immunity certificate for people who have already received two vaccine doses, Gergely Gulyas, head of the Prime Minister's Office, said in a press conference here on Thursday.

The original measure tied the validity of the certificate to a booster shot, or to two shots administered within six months.

Gulyas said that the government was following "the current practice" of the European Union (EU): "Neither Brussels nor the EU member states have tightened the existing travel regulations due to the emergence of the Omicron variant, and the government does not want Hungarians to be subjected to stricter rules than other EU citizens."

The decision comes at a time when the fifth wave of the pandemic is peaking in Hungary. "Although the virus is spreading much faster in the fifth wave, neither the number of hospitalizations nor the number of deaths is even close to that of previous waves," Gulyas said.

Virus expert Miklos Rusvai has confirmed to Xinhua that the Omicron coronavirus variant -- especially its "sneaky" BA.2 sub-variant -- is spreading much faster but is less deadly than all previous variants, which helps the population obtain immunity without much cost to the health system.

"We see that the number of people needing hospital care or ventilators is much smaller than during the previous waves," he told Xinhua.

Hungary on Thursday reported 17,894 new COVID-19 cases in a 24-hour span, raising the national total to 1,600,411.

In the past 24 hours, 88 people have died from the disease, taking the toll to 41,636 in the country, while 1,330,876 people have recovered. Currently, 4,451 patients are being treated in hospitals, including 163 on ventilators, the government's coronavirus information website said.

As of Wednesday, 6,366,402 people had received at least the first shot of a vaccine, 6,107,843 people had two jabs, and 3,700,305 people got their booster shot, according to the website. 
BEVERLY, Mass., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nurses at Northeast Hospital Corp. (NHC) have reached the limit of their endurance, following years of understaffing, excessive patient loads, management's use of forced overtime and the dangers and challenges of providing patient care during the worst public health crisis in our nation's history -- all resulting in an unprecedented loss of 40% of the hospitals nursing staff since July 2019, and the loss of more than 100 nurses in the last five months alone. A breakdown of the nursing staff numbers can be found at the end of this release.

Northeast Hospital Corporation is owned by the Beth Israel Lahey Health System, and is comprised of Beverly Hospital, Addison Gilbert Hospital in Gloucester, and Lahey Outpatient Center in Danvers.

"For many of the nurses at Northeast Health, working in this system under these staffing conditions for so many years has been likened to being on the Titanic. We have hit the iceberg, the pandemic, and now we are sinking," said Larn Beard, RN, a Special Care Nursery RN at Beverly Hospital and co-chair of the nurses local bargaining unit with the Massachusetts Nurses Association. "Rather than dealing with our ongoing staffing crisis and doing what they need to do in order to retain and recruit experienced nurses, this administration seems to accept that we will continue to bleed staff," Beard added.

"The devastation of seeing our community suffer is unifying the nurses at Beverly Hospital and Addison Gilbert Hospital. The overwhelming burdens of unsafe staffing due to higher patient acuity and low wages have been issues long before the pandemic of 2020. These conditions have driven too many nurses away, and the majority who left were brilliant, compassionate caregivers who felt unsafe, understaffed and under paid," said Arianna Marquis, RN, a nurse who has worked on one of Beverly Hospital's medical-surgical/telemetry floors for 11 years. "New graduate nurses are voicing burnout so soon into their careers and fear for their licenses. Experienced nurses find themselves in constant mourning over the exceptional care they were unable to provide due to no fault of their own. The love for our community and remaining co-workers is what keeps myself and others at the hospital, but the future of this facility lies in the hands of our administration and their willingness to heed our concerns and negotiate appropriate solutions. I'm hoping we can mutually agree that patient safety should always be first priority."

For its part, Northeast Hospital Corp., rather than taking aggressive steps to recruit nurses into the hospital, the administration for years resorted to the dangerous practice of using mandatory overtime, forcing a nurse to work extra hours or an entire shift, to compensate for their failure to have appropriate staff on hand to provide patient care. The state in 2012 passed a law banning its use in the state's acute care hospitals, yet NHC had until recently insisted on a contractual exception from the law and ordered mandatory overtime at a higher rate than just about any Mass. hospital. Nurses at NHC were subject to 83 mandations from Sept. 2020 through Aug. 2021, with an average time of forced overtime of 6.1 hours beyond the RN's shift. Keep in mind that peer reviewed research shows that nurses working mandatory overtime are more likely to make an error in their care.

Adding insult to the ongoing moral injury faced by nurses working under these untenable conditions, the nurses of NHC are among the lowest paid nurses in the region, while NHC is among the most profitable hospital systems in the state, even during the pandemic.

Northeast nurses are paid between 11% - 16% less than nurses at other MNA represented hospitals within 30 miles, including Lawrence General Hospital and North Shore Medical Center, despite the fact that NHC hospitals enjoy a profit margin of 12. 8 percent, more than five times the state average. (Source: Mass Commission on Healthcare Information and Analysis Hospital Profiles for 2020, released 9/21/2020).

To address the crisis, the nurses are currently in negotiations for a new contract that they hope will include the addition of more nurses, as well as wage and differential increases to allow the hospital to recruit and retain needed staff. They are also reaching out to local public officials and the public to increase pressure on BI-Lahey to put concern for patients ahead of all else.

"When we are struggling to care for patients who are literally fighting for their lives, it is unfair to us and to them to force us to work under such conditions, yet we do the best we can every day and it is up to our administrators to finally do the same," Beard concluded.

Crisis at Northeast Hospital Corp. Part of a State and National Shortfall Driven by Industry Practices

The outcry by the NHC nurses comes on the heels of a warning issued last month to the Governor by the MNA, when the organization sent a letter citing a state of emergency for all nurses and health systems, overwhelmed by the longstanding staffing crisis in our hospitals, and the pressures put on the system due to the Omicron variant.

Two years into the pandemic, the omicron variant is spiking COVID-19 infections, driving increases in hospitalizations, and worsening pre-existing, profit-centered healthcare industry staffing practices, Katie Murphy, practicing ICU nurse and President of the MNA, wrote in the letter on behalf of 23,000 MNA nurses and healthcare professionals across the Commonwealth.

"Two years into this pandemic, we are now at a place we all feared. Healthcare workers are overwhelmed and burned out," Murphy wrote in the letter. "Healthcare facilities are overrun with both COVID-19 patients and those individuals who delayed care throughout the pandemic, and the system is buckling under the pressure. We are closer than we have ever been to the collapse of the healthcare system.

"It must be recognized that this current staffing crisis has been years in the making, as hospital administrators have implemented policies that drove tens of thousands of qualified staff away from hospital nursing as a result of strategic efforts to understaff hospitals to generate greater operating margins," Murphy wrote. "The pandemic has only exacerbated this situation and demonstrated the systemic lack of understanding and appreciation of the role and value of those providing direct patient care."

Data Showing the Turnover of Nursing Staff at Northeast Hospital Corp.

Based on new 1/15/2022 data:





# % of 2019 RNS who left

Nurses working at NHC in 2019 who are no longer employed as of 1/15/2022 322 40.0%











7/1/2019 1/15/2022 Change Total # Bargaining unit members 805 695 -110 Total # hours per week 22,095 18,252 -3843







(We compared the dataset management gave us in 7/2019 to the dataset from management we received on 1/15/2021)







Changes just in the LAST 5 MONTHS (between 8/2021 and 1/2022)

# % of 8/2021 RNS who left IN 5 MONTHS

Nurses working at NHC 7/2021 who are no longer employed as of 1/15/2022 102 13.8%











8/1/2021 1/15/2022 Change Total # Bargaining unit members 741 695 -46 Total # hours per week 20,134 18,252 -1883

MassNurses.org  Facebook.com/MassNurses  Twitter.com/MassNurses  Instagram.com/MassNurses

Founded in 1903, the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the largest union of registered nurses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Its 23,000 members advance the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the economic and general welfare of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Legislature and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public.

SOURCE Massachusetts Nurses Association
Nairobi, Kenya (PANA) - Kenya will host the seventh session of a major African Union (AU) Summit dedicated to the growth of the regional and continental infrastructure on 28 February to 2 March, an official source said here Thursday
Patna, Feb 3 : Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tej Pratap Yadav has offered VIP chief Mukesh Sahani, HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi and JD-U leader Upendra Kushwaha to join his party.

"We have already given offers to these leaders and we are expecting that they would shake hands with us any time. Mukesh Sahani is my younger brother. He along with Jitan Ram Manjhi and Upendra Kushwaha will come under the umbrella of the RJD very soon," Yadav said.

Tej Pratap Yadav hinted that Mukesh Sahani, or Jitan Ram Manjhi are not pleased with alliance partners BJP and JD-U in Bihar. They were ignored by BJP and JD-U during selection of seats for the upcoming MLC election.

It is a desperate time for Mukesh Sahani as he has already lost Bochaha seat after the demise of his MLA. Apart from that his MLC term is also coming to an end very soon. After that he will not be the member of any house. Hence, it would be extremely difficult for him to hold the ministry portfolio in the Nitish Kumar government.

At present, Mukesh Sahani led VIP is having 3 MLAs, who are supporting the government. On that basis, Mukesh Sahani got animal husbandry and fisheries ministry. Sahani is on the radar of the BJP ever since he jumped in the fray of Uttar Pradesh assembly polls. He has also given several statements against UP CM Yogi Adityanath during the campaign.

Jitan Ram Manjhi too is not pleased with the BJP and the JD-U. He has already expressed his view on being ignored during the seat selection for MLC polls.

Upendra Kushwaha, the president of JD-U parliamentary board, went beyond party line and criticized the Union Budget on Tuesday. He said that people of Bihar were expecting special status but the Union Finance Minister ignored it.

After he spoke against party line, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar immediately went for damage control and appreciated the Budget. He also said that this budget would have so many things for the poor state like Bihar.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Delhi on Thursday reported a considerable decline in daily Covid cases at 2,668, against 3028 cases recorded on the previous day, as well as 13 deaths, the Health Department bulletin said.

The positivity rate has also reduced to 4.30 per cent with active cases declining to 13,630, as per the bulletin. With Covid recovery rate climbing at 97.84 per cent, the active cases rate stands at 0.74 per cent while the death rate continues at 1.41 per cent.

The fresh infections and deaths has taken the tally to 18,38,647, and the death toll to 25,932.

With 3,895 patients recovering in the last 24 hours, the total number of recoveries has gone to 17,99,085. A total of 9,581 Covid patients are being treated in home isolation at present.

The number of Covid containment zones has also declined to 33,708.

Meanwhile, a total of 61,992 new tests -- 50,536 RT-PCR and 11,456 Rapid Antigen - were conducted in the last 24 hours, taking the total to 3,50,81,270.

Out of 55,232 vaccines administered in the last 24 hours, 11,395 were first doses and 37,828 second doses. Meanwhile, 6,009 precaution doses were also administered. The total number of cumulative beneficiaries vaccinated so far stands at 2,97,50,695 according to the health bulletin.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
MATT CARROLL, Wheeler Boys Soccer, Senior; Carroll scored two goals in a win over Tourtellotte. Wheeler finished 2-1 for the week.

RYAN GRUCZKA, Stonington, Boys Cross Country, Senior; Gruczka finished first in the season-opening meet for the Bears. Gruczka, an All-ECC selection as a junior, posted a time of 16:39 in the 3.1-mile race at Stonington High.

JONATHAN TURANO, Westerly, Boys Soccer, Senior; Turano, a goalkeeper, made two saves during a penalty kick shootout to help Westerly defeat Stonington in the Piver Cup tournament title game. It was the first Piver Cup championship for the Bulldogs since the tournament started in 2017.

LEXI COLE, Chariho Girls Volleyball, Junior; Cole helped the Chargers remain unbeaten with a victory over St. Raphael. Cole finished with 24 assists and seven digs in a 3-1 victory against the Saints.

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leader is likely to announce the name of his party's chief ministerial candidate for the polls on Sunday, when he visits Ludhiana for a virtual rally, sources said.

During his last visit to on January 27, Gandhi had announced that the will soon declare its chief ministerial face for the February 20 election and a decision on it will be taken after consulting the party workers.

Besides taking feedback from the leaders and workers of the party, the is also seeking the opinion of the public on who should be its chief ministerial candidate through an automated call system.

For the last several weeks, both Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and state Congress chief Navjot Singh Sidhu have, directly or indirectly, made a case for themselves to be declared as the party's nominee for the top post.

Channi also indicated in his constituency Chamkaur Sahib that the chief ministerial face of the Congress could be declared on Sunday.

Sidhu's wife Navjot Kaur Sidhu said irrespective of who becomes the chief minister, her husband is a hero and will remain so.

"Navjot Singh Sidhu is a hero and he will remain a hero," she told reporters in Amritsar.

"Whosoever the chief minister may be, it does not matter," she added.

She was replying to a question about her husband's political future if he does not become the chief minister of .

"Whoever is the chief minister, he should listen to his ministers, sign their files and let them do their work. Had (former chief minister) Amarinder Singh done this, nobody would have had any problem with any chief minister," Navjot Kaur Sidhu said.

Addressing a virtual rally in Jalandhar last week, Gandhi had said both Channi and Sidhu have assured him that whosoever is chosen as the party's chief ministerial face, they will stand by the decision.

He had said this after Sidhu demanded at the rally that the Congress declare its chief ministerial face for the Punjab polls and said he does not want to be a "showpiece".

Channi had then said he was never after any post and would wholeheartedly back the party's candidate for the top post.

Channi replaced Amarinder Singh as the chief minister in September last year. He is the first Scheduled Caste (SC) chief minister of Punjab.

Polling for the 117-member Punjab Assembly is scheduled to be held on February 20 and the counting of votes will be taken up on March 10.

(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.)
Kathmandu, Feb 3 : Nepals Covid vaccination coverage has crossed 50 per cent as the country inoculated 14.9 million people with both doses as of Thursday, according to Health Ministry data.

Nepal had launched the Covid-19 vaccination campaign on January 27, 2021. The government plans to vaccinate the entire eligible population by mid-April 2022.

The ministry's daily vaccine coverage report shows that with 266,540 people vaccinated in the last 24 hours, the number of fully-vaccinated people has reached 51.1 per cent.

According to the preliminary Census report of the Central Bureau of Statistics, Nepal's total population stands at 29.19 million.

According to the ministry, until Thursday, a total of 17.3 million people have received at least the first dose of Covid-19 vaccine, which is 68.4 per cent of the total population.

The World Health Organization said that Nepal is on track for meeting the global vaccination targets set by the WHO.

Over 70 per cent Nepali population aged above 18 are fully vaccinated and this is a milestone achievement, the WHO said while congratulating the government of Nepal for the success.

"Reaching 70 per cent-landmark is a collective success of Nepal and its partners, it demonstrates what is possible when we work together with solidarity and in coordination," the WHO Nepal office said in a statement.

"This is the collective success of all the stakeholders -- central, provincial and local level governments, health workers, aid agencies and countries which have provided us the vaccine doses," said Sangita Mishra, spokesperson for the Health Ministry.

"Due to the strong leadership of the government, which is committed to administer vaccines to all eligible populations at the earliest, we could achieve this milestone," he added.

Meanwhile, Nepal reported 3,175 new Covid cases on Thursday along with 8,723 recoveries and 14 deaths, according to the latest information provided by the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP).

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
(Newser)  A church in southern Oregon says it is following the teachings of Jesus Christ when it provides free meals to homeless peopleand it is unconstitutional for the city of Brookings to try to limit the service. St. Timothy's Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon have filed a federal lawsuit challenging a city ordinance that requires organizations to get permits for "benevolent meal service" and restricting it to two meals per week, NPR reports. The city council introduced the ordinance in October after residents sent the city a petition, complaining about trespassing, littering, noise, and safety issues caused by people visiting the church for free meals. The lawsuit says the church stepped up its meal services during the pandemic because other services had shut down and it didn't want people to go hungry.

The petition, which described homeless people as "vagrants" and "undesirables," was signed by around 30 people, reports Oregon Public Broadcasting. The town has around 6,500 residents. The church says it has not applied for a permit and it considers providing the meals a "free expression of their Christian faith, which calls them to serve others in need." KTVL reports that when the ordinance was introduced, the church's pastor, Bernie Lindley, said he was not willing to restrict services and he felt applying for a permit would open the door for the city to bring in further restrictions. The ordinance went into effect last week.

"We won't abandon the people of Brookings who need our help, even when we're being threatened," Lindley says. The church has also supplied homeless people with health services including COVID vaccinations. Bishop Diana Akiyama says the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon supports the church's efforts. "The parishioners of St. Timothy's are obeying the teachings of Jesus when they provide food and medical care to their community," she said in a statement. "As Christians, we are called by faith to feed the hungry and welcome the stranger." City officials haven't responded to the lawsuit yet. (Read more Oregon stories.)
Saudi Arabias Aramco and worlds largest oil exporter has acquired 7.5 per cent of Norwegian industrial software group Cognite in return for investment estimated at about $113 million.

The Saudi energy giant takes full control of oil firm Aker BPs shares in the company valued at just over $1.5 billion.

Both Aramco and Cognite are collaborating already as the Norwegian firm is currently digitalizing the oil firms operations through its main software product, Cognite Data Fusion (CDF).

Cognite has proven that their technology delivers complex real-time insights seamlessly and is optimizing how energy is being supplied to the world, said Saudi Aramco Senior Vice president of Technical Services, Ahmad A. Al-Saadi.

With offices in Tokyo, Japan, Austin and Houston, Texas, Cognite creates software for businesses operating in oil and gas, power and utilities, renewable energy, manufacturing and other asset-heavy industries.
Khartoum, Sudan (PANA) - Following weeks of unrest and inter-communal fighting in the Darfur region, the Khartoum government has massively moved in to quell the precarious situation from spelling into a full time war taking the region back to 2004, the peak of the two decades conflict
Amidst arctic temperatures descending on the Midwest lately, a retired Iowa woman lost her footing while fetching her mail. She fell on the sidewalk and was unable to get up.

It could have ended much worse for 73-year-old Linda Houlton had it not been for a local mailman who stopped and helped her.

On that cold January day with minus-5-degree-Fahrenheit windchills, the former medical insurance clerk treaded carefully down her icy-laden drive before slipping in front of her house in Des Moines.

I got the mail, but when I came back, I hit ice and fell face-first on the sidewalk, and from that point I couldnt get back up, she told The Epoch Times. My boots wouldnt let my legs underneath me.

Lindas home security camera recorded her fall on Jan. 5; (Inset) Linda Houlton. (Courtesy of Wen Boatwright)

She laid there on the freezing concrete for 19 minutes, she said, adding that it saddened her that no motorists even stopped to ask if she was okay.

Until the postal serviceChris Meyer is his namestopped and picked me up and took me back to the garage and then went back and got my mail and brought it back to me, she said.

Lindas son-in-law, journeyman ironworker Wen Boatwright, 47, was downstairs when Linda fell, but his home security camera recorded the moment when Chris stopped his postal truck and rescued her.

Home security camera footage shows Chris helping Linda back up. (Courtesy of Wen Boatwright)

After Linda got back inside, Wen placed an electric blanket over her and, aside from having sore knees, Linda recovered from her cold hands and feet without requiring medical attention.

She has since learned that mailman Meyers had been substituting for their regular neighborhood postie.

If it wasnt for Chris, I probably wouldve been out there for quite some time, she told the newspaper, calling him her good Samaritan.

Chris helps Linda back to the garage. (Courtesy of Wen Boatwright)

This isnt the first time a postal worker came to Lindas rescue; their usual mail carrier, Zack, had helped her get back to her garage a month earlier, though shed managed to stay on her feet.

Meyer deserves recognition for what he did, said Wen, who hopes to thank him in person, shake his hand, and repay the deed with a few gift cards in the near future.

Im trying to get him nationally recognized, Wen added. They got the postal of the year award, Id like to see him go up for that.

He saved her life.

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Bright newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest analysis from BizVibe, a leading company insights platform, provides detailed insights for hundreds of heli-logging companies and 1,000+ logging companies worldwide. BizVibe's heli-logging company insights highlight the strong influence that the increase in demand for forest products is expected to have in the coming years for market participants.

Get free insights for 100+ heli-logging companies

Snapshot of key trend impacting BizVibe's heli-logging industry group.

Key Industry Trend  Increasing Price for Forest Products

The logging industry was resilient during the pandemic due to numerous products being in high demand. Toilet paper, face masks, disinfectant wipes, and corrugated paper for cardboard boxes for online deliveries have seen sales surge amid COVID-19, in some cases creating shortages due to panic buying.

This sales boom during the pandemic in combination with global population growth, the housing boom, and the growing popularity of the DIY and home improvement markets have resulted in a surge for lumber products. In some cases, lumber prices increased more than 20% in just one month and a 50% price increase in just two months.

Geographic Relevance  High Relevance Across the Globe

The increasing prices for forest products will have a high geographic relevance across the globe. With countries like the USA, China, and India importing large amounts of forest products to meet construction demands, companies from countries across all major regions are seeing their wood export revenues soar.

For example, in South America, Uruguay may have set a record for wood imports in 2021, thanks to increased demand from Asian nations who are purchasing at high prices. In Europe, the Swedish lumber industry witnessed astronomical profit margins in 2021 compared to their average. Meanwhile in Africa, Ghana recently highlighted their remarkable progress for timber exports in 2021.

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Industry trends and challenges expected to impact heli-logging companies

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Densels Dream is $38,000 from being Grand Islands reality.

The $600,000 project  a sculpture celebrating sandhill cranes, a symbol of the community  has been the subject of a fundraising campaign by Grand Island Partnership for the Arts. The art will be settled into an otherwise awkward triangle of land at Highway 281 and South Webb Road, which measures about 1/10 of an acre.

The art itself will measure 50 feet wide, 14-and-a-half-feet tall and nine feet deep. Columbus-born artist Matthew Placzek created the design. It is to be made of materials engineer-tested to withstand winds as fierce as a tornados. The vibrant colors of the sculpture will patina very little over time.

Making the south Grand Island nook a home for public art was the brainchild of the late Densel Rasmussen, a Grand Island businessman and community leader who died in 2017 at age 62. Rasmussen envisioned public art to greet people entering Grand Island from the south on Highway 281.

In 2018, following Rasmussens death, the state of Nebraska, which owned the land, was approached about donating it to the city of Grand Island. In 2020, the property donation was finalized, and GIPA came one step closer to achieving Densels Dream.

According to GIPA there is likely to be less maintenance for the city than there is at the spot presently. The price tag for Densels Dream, including landscaping features and illumination, is about $600,000.

Steve Anderson, GIPA board president, said about 300 individuals and organizations have donated funds and in-kind contributions.

Its a showing of what Densels Dream is really about, said George Bartenbach, member of GIPA. This isnt just Densels Dream. Its for the long-term betterment of Grand Island.

For more information about the Densels Dream public art project or to donate, contact: Grand Island Partnership for the Arts (GIPA), 908 Howard Suite 106, Grand Island, NE 68803-3529. Names of donors (whether in-kind or monetary) will but listed on a plaque at the arts site and in publication.
CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the American College of Surgeons issued the following comments in response to the February 2 release of the President's Cancer Panel Report,"Closing Gaps in Cancer Screening: Connecting People, Communities, and Systems to Improve Equity and Access."

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) is pleased to support the President's call for increasing cancer screening across the U.S. and the plan's four targeted goals to close gaps in screening.

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, cancer screening requires immediate and continual attention to make up the lost ground for patients who declined or delayed screening appointments during the pandemic.

"Screening is one of our best strategies for detecting cancers early when the disease can be cured. If we find a cancer early, we have more options to treat and cure a patient," said Heidi Nelson, MD, FACS, Medical Director of ACS Cancer Programs, which administers the Commission on Cancer, National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, and National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer.

"It has been a particularly difficult few years for cancer care and screening in the U.S. due to the COVID-19 pandemic," Dr. Nelson added, noting that here have been an estimated 9.4 million missed cancer screening tests across the U.S. in 2020 alone.1 Additionally, the director of the National Cancer Institute projected that there may be 10,000 additional cancer deaths from breast and colorectal cancers due to screening that went missed during the pandemic.2

"This is an incredibly important effort to improve access and equity for all patients with cancer," said Carol Brown, MD, FACS, chief health equity officer at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City; member of the ACS Board of Regents; and a former member of the Biden Cancer Initiative, who attended Wednesday's announcement at the White House. "Surgeons play an essential role in the effort to end cancer as we know it through our surgery, our research, and our constant pursuit of innovation to find cures."

In an effort to address issues surrounding delayed screenings, the American College of Surgeons Cancer Programs collaborated with the American Cancer Society on a quality improvement initiative and clinical study to accelerate screening numbers in the U.S. By providing easy-to-adopt plans that leveraged existing guidelines, messaging, and interventions, American College of Surgeons-accredited programs worked to increase access to, and participation in, crucial cancer screenings. When national resources were provided, including methods to calculate local screening deficits, 748 cancer programs enrolled in the national Return-to-Screening study and the majority identified local screening deficits, most notably in colorectal cancer. Using these results, 814 quality improvement projects were initiated, with the potential to add 70,000 screening tests per month in 2021.

"This boost in screenings won't make up for all of the lost screenings during the pandemic, but we know it will help save lives. We had the teams, program standards, and a collaborative partner in place with the American Cancer Society to ramp up screenings around the U.S. during a time when we really needed it. We anticipate releasing a peer-reviewed article about our national return to screening campaign soon," said Dr. Nelson

"We applaud the President's commitment to increasing screening as part of his renewed effort to improve outcomes for cancer patients across the nation. We stand ready to do our part to support this critically important work. Our cancer screening efforts show how important it is to have a plan ready that's hard wired to deal with adverse circumstances, such as those we've encountered during the pandemic. While we don't yet know what the full downstream effect will be from screening delays, we are confident that these efforts will make an impact and help improve outcomes for patients," said ACS Executive Director Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS. "The ACS welcomes the opportunity to join with other stakeholders in this collective effort to improve screenings, reduce disparities, and end cancer as we know it."

"FACS" designates that a surgeon is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

1Chen RC, Haynes K, Du S, Barron J, Katz AJ. Association of Cancer Screening Deficit in the United States With the COVID-19 Pandemic. JAMA Oncol. 2021;7(6):878-884.

2Sharpless NE. COVID-19 and cancer. Science. 2020;368(6497):1290-1290.

About the American College of Surgeons

The American College of Surgeons is a scientific and educational organization of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical practice and improve the quality of care for all surgical patients. The College is dedicated to the ethical and competent practice of surgery. Its achievements have significantly influenced the course of scientific surgery in America and have established it as an important advocate for all surgical patients. The College has more than 84,000 members and is the largest organization of surgeons in the world. For more information, visit www.facs.org (.)

SOURCE American College of Surgeons
Radford University lifted its student COVID-19 vaccine requirement this week, making the same decision as numerous other colleges after a recent opinion by new state Attorney General Jason Miyares.

Miyares, a Republican who took office last month, issued his opinion that colleges cannot require student vaccines. Miyares predecessor, Democrat Mark Herring, had ruled colleges could required them.

Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia and other state schools then lifted their mandates.

Radford University, in a statement on its website, said its decision was consistent with Miyares opinion.

Radford University will no longer require COVID-19 vaccinations or booster shots for students as a general condition of enrollment or in-person attendance, reads a statement on the schools website. Weekly testing for students not fully vaccinated is no longer required. All employees and students, regardless of campus location, are still required to wear facemasks indoors. Several locations across campus will continue to provide disposable masks and KN95 masks.

Radford also announced that COVID-19 testing and booster clinics will remain available for all employees and students and the school said it encourages employees and students who receive a booster to submit documentation.

A booster clinic is set for Feb. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon in Heth Hall, room 104. A valid identification and a vaccination card is required, as is registration which can be accessed at radford.edu.
By Andrew MacAskill

LONDON (Reuters) - Scotland will need checkpoints along its border with England for the first time in more than three centuries if it votes for independence and rejoins the European Union, according to a think tank report published on Thursday.

The pro-independence Scottish National Party, which heads the Scottish government, wants to hold a second referendum on breaking away from the United Kingdom by the end of next year.

Voters in Scotland, which has a population of around 5.5 million, rejected independence in 2014. But Scotland's semi-autonomous government says Britain's departure from the EU, which was opposed by a majority of Scots, means the question must be put to a second vote.

If Scotland voted for independence, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has stated a key objective would be to rejoin the EU.

The report by the UK In A Changing Europe think tank shows that while Brexit has reenergised the campaign for Scottish independence, it has made the consequences more complex. Any checks could create problems for Scottish businesses, which export three times more to the rest of the United Kingdom than to the EU.

Brexit has "profoundly changed the context in which independence is contested and could be realised", the authors of the report said.

An independent Scotland in the EU would be responsible for ensuring that all goods and services entering the country met the bloc's standards, according to the authors.

Border controls and inspection facilities would be needed along the main roads between Scotland and England with smaller roads potentially being monitored by cameras, the report said.

Recent opinion polls suggest Scotland is evenly split on the idea of independence, while pro-independence parties hold a majority in the Scottish parliament.

Sturgeon said last year that while Scotland would comply with all EU rules if her country joined the bloc, she would try to negotiate arrangements to keep free trade flowing with England.

Story continues

The British government argued during the Brexit negotiations that the use of technology meant there was no need for checks on the border between the Republic of Ireland, an EU member, and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom.

If there was another referendum and the Scots voted out, it would mark the biggest shock to the United Kingdom since Irish independence a century ago.

Scotland joined England in a political union in 1707, formally creating the Kingdom of Great Britain with a unified parliament in Westminster following centuries of antagonism and warfare.

(Reporting by Andrew MacAskill; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2022, the global basalt fiber market is expected to reach USD 106 million, and by 2022-2032, it is expected to reach USD 339 million.

Governments have boosted their investments in developing infrastructure projects in industrialized emerging countries, which has the potential to fuel basalt fiber industry. According to the Euro Construct study, construction production in European countries hit around USD 1,900 billion in 2019. Because of the enhanced mechanical strength provided by basalt fiber in difficult building settings, this market is expected to develop at a 12.4% CAGR from 2022 to 2032.

The continuous form of basalt fibers is low-cost, super-efficient, and has excellent mechanical properties such as high tensile strength, making it suitable for a variety of applications such as pipe containers, plastic basalt products, reinforced nets, and various electrical insulation materials, providing them with a wide range of market opportunities.

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Basalt fibers have better mechanical strength, chemical and heat resistance, insulation, and a variety of other properties. The use of basalt fibers as an alternative to steel reinforcements has increased due to properties such as corrosion resistance and lightweight, which allows mounting without the requirement of lifting or other specialist equipment.

In construction composites, basalt fibers also outperform e-glass fiber. In all forms, including roving, chopped strands, fabrics, and so on, basalt fibers have better durability, breaking load capacity, and stiffness. As a result, during the projection years of 2022-2032, the market is expected to see a 1.4X growth in demand.

Basalt fibers are slightly more expensive than E-glass, but far less expensive than carbon fiber, S-glass, and aramid. It aids in the completion of an in-depth cost study for basalt fibers. Furthermore, the improvement in population living standards, as well as their disposable income, is predicted to boost demand in electric vehicles, aerospace, and automotive.

Report Attributes Details Base Year Value (2021A) USD 94 Million Estimated Year Value (2022E) USD 106 Million Projected Year Value (2032F) USD 339 Million Global Growth Rate (2022-2032) CAGR 12.4%

Key Takeaways:

Europe region to account for nearly 29% of the total basalt fiber market share.

region to account for nearly 29% of the total basalt fiber market share. East Asian basalt fiber market is expected to generate an absolute dollar opportunity of around USD 44.7 million by 2032.

by 2032. By product type, roving segment is projected to hold nearly 56% market share.

By end-use industry, building and construction industry to account for 29.2% share of the overall market.

Growth Drivers:

Usage of basalt fibers as an alternative to steel reinforcements is boosting the growth of basalt fibers market.

Rapid growth of construction and infrastructure industry worldwide is expected to propel the demand for basalt fibers.

Key Restraints:

The equipment costs and initial setup are relatively costly, this is expected to hamper the basalt fiber market.

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Competitive Landscape

Due to the presence of various regional and domestic companies, the global basalt fiber market is fragmented. To increase their worldwide consumer base, the players have used a variety of strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, expansions, collaborations, and partnerships.

New product creation has also been a vital tactic for top corporations to expand their market presence among customers. Advanced basalt fiber has been integrated as a result of these efforts.

On 30th April 2021 , Kamenny Vek expanded its product line with the introduction of three new products: Basalt direct roving 22 microns 2400 tex, Basalt assembled roving 18 micron 3000 tex, and Basalt assembled roving 18 micron 4800 tex.

, Kamenny Vek expanded its product line with the introduction of three new products: Basalt direct roving 22 microns 2400 tex, Basalt assembled roving 18 micron 3000 tex, and Basalt assembled roving 18 micron 4800 tex. On July 27, 2020 , Mafic USA , situated in Shelby, North Carolina , began operations of the world's largest basalt fiber mill. This company will be able to meet the demand generated by a big customer base.

Key players in the Basalt Fiber Market include:

TECHNOBASALT-INVEST LLC

BASALTEX NV

Sudaglass Fiber Technology

Zhejiang GBF Basalt Fiber Co., Ltd (GBF)

Kamenny Vek

Shanxi Basalt Fiber Technology Co., Ltd

JiangSu Tianlong Continuous Basalt Fuber Co.Ltd

Mafic SA

Isomatex SA

Shanxi Basalt Fibre Technology Co., Ltd

More Valuable Insights on Basalt Fiber Market

Fact.MR provides an unbiased analysis of the basalt fiber market, presenting forecast statistics for the period from (2022-2032). The study divulges compelling insights on the global basalt fiber market with a detailed segmentation on the basis of:

By Product Type :

Roving



Chopped Strands



Fabric



Mesh and Grids



Others

By Usage :

Composites



Non-Composites

By End Use Industry :

Building and construction



Automotive



Aerospace and defense



Ship Building



Wind Energy



Sport Accessories and others

By Region :

North America



Latin America



Europe



East Asia



South Asia & Oceania

& Oceania

MEA

Key Questions Covered in Basalt Fiber Market Report

The report offers insight into the basalt fiber market demand outlook for 2022-2032.

The market study also highlights projected sales growth for basalt fiber market between 2022 and 2032.

Basalt fiber market survey identifies key growth drivers, restraints, and other forces impacting prevailing trends and evaluation of current market size and forecast and technological advancements within the industry.

Basalt fiber market share analysis of the key companies within the industry and coverage of strategies such as mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, collaborations or partnerships, and others.

Explore Fact.MR's Coverage on the Industrial Goods Domain 

Carbon Fiber Market Analysis  Demand for carbon fiber have seen a substantial increase, owing to their low moisture absorption, remarkable tensile properties, high temperature tolerance, and low cost.

Fiberboard Ceiling Market Forecast - Fiberboard ceilings have grown in popularity in recent years, both for aesthetic reasons and to improve the performance of an existing ceiling. Fiberboard ceiling demand is expected to be driven by mass urbanization in emerging economies, as well as enhanced residential and commercial infrastructure.

Fiberboard Market Scope - Asia Pacific fiberboard market is expected to maintain its dominance. Due to the growing demand for fiberboard over previously utilized plywood in countries such as India, this region is likely to be a major contributor to the growth of the fiberboard market.

Acoustical Fiber Board Market Trends - During the assessment period, the rise of the construction industry, combined with a rising preference for noise reduction and control, is predicted to generate potential avenues for acoustical fiber boards.

About Fact.MR

Market research and consulting agency with a difference! That's why 80% of Fortune 1,000 companies trust us for making their most critical decisions. We have offices in US and Dublin, whereas our global headquarter is in Dubai. While our experienced consultants employ the latest technologies to extract hard-to-find insights, we believe our USP is the trust clients have on our expertise. Spanning a wide range  from automotive & industry 4.0 to healthcare & retail, our coverage is expansive, but we ensure even the most niche categories are analyzed. Reach out to us with your goals, and we'll be an able research partner.

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SOURCE Fact.MR
A mother-of-four serving time in prison for her role in a kidnapping has burst into tears while discussing the gaping hole left in her children's lives, but says they don't visit her in jail as it's 'not a good place'.

Brittany has been behind bars at for three months at Dillwynia Correctional Centre, in Sydney's northwestern outskirts, after becoming what she described as an 'unwilling' driver in an abduction.

The mother-of-four, who admits to previously being hooked on ice, was handed a three years and six month sentence and will not be eligible for parole for more than 12 months.

While she sits in a cell, her children are in her father's care hitting major life milestones - and memories she will never get back.

Brittany (pictured) is behind bars at in Sydney's northwest after being sentenced to three years and six months for kidnapping

'I don't get to bond with them,' she said through tears.

'I miss all that. I'm missing it all.

'I never thought I would end up in here'.

The mother-of-four is one of a number of prisoners who are sharing their stories for Channel Nine's new series Australia Behind Bars, which premiered on Thursday night.

Of the almost 3,300 women in locked up in jails across Australia, more than 2,000 are mothers.

Brittany said becoming a parent at a young age likely delayed her first encounter with the prison system.

'I had my first born when I was 14 years old,' she told the program.

'She was just a breeze of a kid. She was awesome.

'It was hard. I lost a lot of my teenage years, but I suppose it was probably a good thing. I am in jail now, so I hate to see where I would have been if I hadn't had her.'

The mother-of-four (pictured with her kids) burst into tears speaking about how she is missing out on her children's lives

If Brittany gets parole, it will be more than a year before she gets to see her three youngest children.

She said her incarceration has greatly affected her kids and it has been 'a lot for them to take in'.

While she is entitled to visitation rights, her father is yet to bring them to see her.

'They know I'm in here. It isn't something I have hidden from the kids,' she said.

'I don't want my kids to think I am somewhere where I can come home to them.

'My dad, my parents, think it is better that my kids don't see me in here.

After reflecting for a moment, she added: 'It's not a good place for kids to come.'

Around 50 per cent of the inmates held at the Berkshire Park female facility have a history of substance abuse.

Brittany is serving time at Dillwynia Correctional Centre, Australia's largest female prison (pictured)

Brittany said drug addiction played a pivot role in her being put behind bars.

'My drug of choice was ice and it was definitely that circle of friends that I was hanging around because of the ice scene that's where you know, everything sort of just went to shit,' she said.

'I found myself to be the unwilling driver of a kidnapping. It went a bit out of control.

'If I had of known what was going to happen that night, I wouldn't have given anyone a lift.

'My heart breaks for the victim. It does.'

Brittany said she was finally starting to pick her life up while she was on bail for the kidnapping charges, but she guesses 'it was just too late'.

Meanwhile, she has missed out on key moments in her children's lives - like the siblings learning how to kayak and her youngest son's first day in preschool.

If she gets parole, the earliest Brittany (pictured in her cell) will be able to see her three youngest children is still more than a year

'I haven't even picked him up from school yet,' she said, breaking down.

'He goes to kindergarten next year and I won't be there for his first day.'

The new observational prison series, hosted by Melissa Doyle, follows the harsh realities of daily life behind bars for inmates and correctional officers alike.

The first episode of the eight-part program also featured police officers conducting raids at Wellington Correctional Centre, near Mudgee in Central West NSW, where they discovered contraband moonshine in a prisoner's cell, made from fermented bread.

Viewers were also given a first-hand glimpse of female officers escorting a prisoner to hospital following a heroin overdose and frisk searching her when she returned.

As well as the other two jails, the show will also explore the tensions at one of the country's most notorious prisons - Silverwater's Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre - which has been home to some of the nation's most ill-famed murderers, rapists, and bikies.
In a major development, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) sent a notice to Khaperkheda Thermal Power Station (KTPS) to immediately stop dumping ash slurry into the Nandgaon ash pond. The move is all set to bring huge relief to residents of Nandgaon, located 40 kilometres from Khaperkheda, in Nagpur district.

For months, residents and Zila Parishad members from Nandgaon have been protesting against the illegal dumping of ash slurry in their farmlands, in violation of environmental norms. Fly ash was also being dumped without a no-objection certificate (NOC) from local residents.

Meanwhile, in a parallel development, Maharashtra Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray is slated to visit Nagpur, where he will also undertake a site visit of the thermal power stations around Koradi-Khaparkheda to assess pollution concerns soon.

According to the Direction Notice issued by MPCB regional officer (Nagpur) AM Kare to the Chief Engineer KTPS, the MPCB office had received various complaints regarding disposal of ash slurry into Nandgaon ash pond without permission or without providing any precautionary measures resulting in water and air pollution in the vicinity.

Also Read  Maharashtra state bodies to identify solutions to address pollution around Koradi Khaparkheda power plants

Accordingly, boards official had inspected the Nandgaon ash pond and verified the disposal of ash slurry in the Nandgaon ash pond without providing any pollution control arrangementsNow, therefore, in view of the above, you (KTPS) are hereby directed to comply with the following directions: You shall stop disposal/dumping of ash slurry into the Nandgaon ash pond, immediately. You shall comply with fly ash notification for utilisation of fly ash, the notice read.

Affected villagers had requested the MPCB, Maharashtra State Power Generation Company (MAHAGENCO) as well as Thackeray to curb the disposal of harmful pollutants, keeping in mind the deteriorating health of local residents affected by pollution.

Sonali Manoj Varkhade, a sarpanch from Nandgaon, explaining the impact of pollution from KTPS, said that the whole village was suffering due to the ash pond, which is located near the Pench river in the village.

The ash slurry was destroying our farms, polluting our water bodies, drinking water and having severe health impacts and the fly ash was spreading all across causing air pollution. Our Gram Panchayat had not issued any No Objection Certificate (NOC) to this Ash Pond. We can now heave a sigh of relief as finally our plea has been heard and MPCB has asked them to stop the disposal of ash slurry in Nandgaon, she said adding that however, they would like to reiterate that their demand is on a complete ban on disposal and not a temporary one.

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Oghara, Delta State, 1st February 2022- Nigerias leading medical laboratory diagnostic (pathology) service provider, SYNLAB, recently launched a state-of-the-art diagnostic medical laboratory at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, as part of the companys effort in supporting the state government in providing quality healthcare services to the people.

The gesture, which is the result of a Public-Private Partnership between the Delta State Government and SYNLAB, is in sync with the companys compelling mission, which is to make excellent medical diagnostic services accessible to Nigerians.

The Chief Executive Officer, SYNLAB Nigeria, Kenneth Okolie, speaking during the event, called on private sector players to collaborate with the government in providing effective solutions to tackle infrastructural deficits across sectors, and addressing the challenges of providing quality healthcare services.

One of the challenges we face in Nigeria is access to quality healthcare services. The government has many responsibilities across different sectors with limited resources to go around. It is for this reason, SYNLAB has entered into a Public-Private Partnership with Delta State to provide quality and accessible healthcare to the people of Delta state. Our mission at SYNLAB is to make excellent medical diagnosis accessible in Sub-Saharan Africa starting with Nigeria, he said.

Commending SYNLAB for the launch of the new diagnostic lab, Onome Ogueh, Chief Medical Officer, DELSUTH, said, As a teaching hospital, what is most important to us is service deliveryto provide the service our patients need. This is why we are grateful to SYNLAB for coming to DELSUTH. We believe the presence of SYNLAB here will increase our capacity to provide proper service delivery to our patients and doctors.

The Member, representing Ethiope West in the Delta State House of Assembly, Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, hailed SYNLAB for partnering with DELSUTH to uplift the healthcare system in Oghara, saying that she has no doubt her constituents will immensely benefit from this new partnership.

SYNLAB has promised to make the new facility in Oghara, Delta State, an ISO accredited facility; setting the same global standard with their facilities across Nigeria.

-END-

ABOUT SYNLAB NIGERIA

SYNLAB Nigeria, formerly PathCare Laboratories, brought excellence in medical diagnostics to Nigeria in 2004, offering quality diagnostic care to families and supporting medical professionals with specialized expertise. We are trusted by millions to provide reliable medical testing and to deliver fast and accurate results.

We were the first medical laboratory in West Africa to achieve ISO 15189 international accreditation in 2006, setting the benchmark for quality analyses in Nigeria.

SYNLAB Nigeria offers a full range of medical laboratory services for patients, practising doctors, clinics and the pharmaceutical industry. We are part of the SYNLAB Group, the uncontested leader in the European market for medical laboratory services.

For more information go to www.synlab.com.ng
Weighing the benefits of technology with the principles of fair chase has long been a difficult balance in hunting in Montana and across the West.

Photographing wildlife with remote trail cameras has grown in popularity over the last 20 years, whether as a noninvasive tool for research or a fun form of recreation. But in the hunting world, trail camera use has never been more hotly debated.

On this episode, Tom Kuglin of the Montana State New Bureau, fleshes out the debate and tells us where Montana lands in it.

This podcast from the Montana State News Bureau is created in partnership across five newsrooms  the Billings Gazette, the Helena Independent Record, 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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Speculation is growing over whether Jeff Zucker was forced out at CNN over his open-secret affair not because bosses had any real issue with it, but because the scandal of it and his ongoing war with Chris Cuomo could have threatened AT&T's $43billion deal with Discovery.

Zucker and Allison Gollust have worked together for 20 years. They claim their relationship turned romantic during the pandemic but others say it far predates COVID. Zucker stepped down yesterday, admitting he was 'wrong' not to have told the company about the relationship.

It has since emerged that Chris Cuomo, who was fired in December for inappropriately consulting his brother about sexual harassment claims, was the one who raised the affair to executives.

But many of his loyal, on-air recruits and staffers in CNN's newsrooms say it does not add up that Zucker would suddenly be shown the door over something that was so well-known.

The affair came to light as part of the investigation into Chris Cuomo's departure. Cuomo's attorneys are said to have told Jason Kilar, the CEO of WarnerMedia - which is CNN's parent company. He then informed AT&T boss John Stankey.

AT&T bought WarnerMedia (formerly Time Warner) in 2018 for $84billion. It was a disastrous deal that the telecoms giant has been trying to unwind for years. It, finally, is now in the finalizing stage of a $43billion sale of WarnerMedia to Discovery.

According to Puck media reporter Dylan Byers, Zucker and Gollust were due to take on senior roles within the new company, under the leadership of Discovery CEO David Zaslav.

Byers writes that it is likely Stankey insisted on Zucker's departure after learning of it. By getting rid of Cuomo, too, AT&T does not have to pay Chris Cuomo the $18million he claims he is entitled to.

'No matter what he thought of Zucker or Kilar, Stankey surely had no appetite for tolerating any scandal that might scuttle the impending WarnerMedia-Discovery deal.

Jeff Zucker was suddenly ousted from CNN yesterday over his affair with colleague Allison Gollust. Staff at CNN are furious at Chris Cuomo for reporting the affair to higher bosses, but are ultimately blaming Jason Kiler, WarnerMedia CEO who overrules, for allowing Cuomo to 'burn the place down' by getting rid of their beloved boss

'And so in the end, now both Kilar and Zucker will soon be in search of new jobs.'

Cuomo has been fighting CNN for the $18million that he claims remain on his contract. He insists he should not have been fired for any kind of conflict or breach of company protocols, when Zucker and Gollust were in a conflict of their own.

Had Zucker been able to stay on at the company, Cuomo's attorneys would have sued for the money - citing the apparent hypocrisy.

In Zucker leaving, the network is no longer on the hook for it, according to The New York Post's business section on Thursday.

Zucker has always had detractors inside CNN, but they are outnumbered by his loyalists, and none of that loyalty eroded today

CNN staff are also asking what the big deal is now, when so many have known of the relationship for years.

'Everyone thinks this is Kilar taking his succession swipe back at Jeff. I feel like people think that this didnt need to be this way; Jeff said he would stay till the merger, and thats just around the corner,' one source told New York Magazine.

Outside CNN, media insiders say there is 'more to come'.

Former FOX News host Megyn Kelly said on Eric Bolling's Newsmax show last night: 'There will be more shoes to drop. Mark my words. Nothing I can report to you now, but mark my words: there are more shoes to drop.'

CNN talent is now turning on Kilar and WarnerMedia, blaming 'terrorist' Chris Cuomo for the entire saga and eulogizing their old boss across the network's airwaves and website.

At a meeting in Washington DC on Wednesday night, Bash fumed that the punishment 'does not fit the crime' while Tapper grilled Kilar for letting Cuomo win.

'An outside observer might say, "Well, it looks like Chris Cuomo succeeded." He threatened Jeff.

'Jeff said we dont negotiate with terrorists. And Chris blew the place up. How do we get past that perception that this is the bad guy winning?

Mutiny: Dana Bash told Kilar the 'punishment does not fit the crime' while Jake Tapper labeled Chris Cuomo a 'terrorist' who has been granted demands and Brian Stelter (right) penned an article vowing his loyalty to Zucker

Brian Stelter and Oliver Darcy wrote this article for CNN last night which reveres Zucker as a media titan and solid leader, and blames the entire debacle on Chris Cuomo and Jason Kilar - the WarnerMedia CEO

AT&T and Discovery's shares plummeted on Monday - before the scandal hit - but have since slowly started recovering

ZUCKER AND GOLLUST'S DOORMEN KNEW ABOUT AFFAIR AND CEO BOSS TOLD 'HIS WIFE OF 21 YEARS OVER ROSH HASHANAH DINNER Zucker and Gollust were so brazen in their affair that even the doormen in the building where they lived with their families knew about it, and would awkwardly try to ensure Gollust and Zucker's wife Caryn were never in the elevator at the same time, according to sources cited by The New York Post on Thursday.' 'Zucker would disappear for hours on end, but Caryn initially had no idea that the woman she was being polite to in the elevator was sleeping with her husband,' an unnamed source told the New York Post. They added: 'Everyone in the building knew about it -even the doormen tried to ensure Caryn wasn't in the elevator at the same time as Allison.' Zucker and Gollust lived in the same apartment building on the Upper East Side with their respective families until Jeff sold his in 2020, after he and his ex-wife Caryn Nathanson split. The building is located at on the corner of Madison Avenue in Manhattan, New York. He resided in apartment 3W, while Allison lived in the unit right above him - number 4W - which she still owns. In her memoir, Going There, Katie Couric later claimed that their 'cozy arrangement' was 'super strange' and made her 'really uncomfortable.' She said in her book: '[Allison] and her husband and kids had moved into the apartment right above Jeff and [his wife] Caryn's - everyone who heard about their cozy arrangement thought it was super strange. Advertisement

At the DC meeting, reporters grilled Kilar on whether or not he had consulted any other executives about the decision. To their frustration, he refused to give proper answers and said that he was 'comfortable' in the call he had made.

Reporters Brian Stelter and Oliver Darcy, a business reporter, also penned an article last night that reveres Zucker as their 'leader', to whom they still pledge loyalty, and shames Kilar.

'Jeff Zucker is a singular figure in American media. That's why his sudden undoing is a seismic moment.

'Outside these walls, Zucker is a larger-than-life figure in the news business, but here in the office, he was the boss right down the hall.

'Upon learning of Zucker's exit, many CNN staffers felt, as Dana Bash said during a tense DC bureau meeting with WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar, that "the punishment didn't fit the crime." Internally, there is a lot of confusion about why this happened.

'Zucker has always had detractors inside CNN, but they are outnumbered by his loyalists, and none of that loyalty eroded today.

'Staffers who were initially shocked by WarnerMedia's action turned disappointed and angry later in the day, and they felt Kilar's answers were far from sufficient,' the pair wrote.

They went on to praise Zucker as a 'survivor' who had 'protected' the network from 'attacks' from Donald Trump and the right-wing media.

The pair also told of fears that without him, the network - which is famously Democratic - could become like 'FOX News Lite'.

'There is a sense in the newsroom that the organization needs a decisive leader to steady the ship.

'In the words of one anchor, "I just don't want us to be rudderless,"' says the CNN article.

Zucker had asked to be able to stay on until the WarnerMedia's deal with Discovery was complete, but Kilar wanted him gone immediately, according to CNN's sources.

AT&T is in the process of spinning off WarnerMedia to Discovery for $43billion.

Under Discovery, it will join a powerhouse of TV networks and streaming services.

Puck's Dylan Beyers reports that it is likely Stankey - who is hell-bent on closing the deal for AT&T - did not want the scandal to place it in jeopardy.

'He's a terrorist!' CNN staff have furiously blamed Chris Cuomo for the 'seismic' undoing at the company and say it's down to him trying to torch the network that pushed him out in December

Allison Gollust will keep her job at the network, where she is an EVP and Chief Marketing Officer. CNN staff are saying little of her but are lining up to support Zucker

'Stankey surely had no appetite for tolerating any scandal that might scuttle the impending WarnerMedia-Discovery deal,' he wrote.

Staffers also questioned whether Kilar was personally motivated to push Zucker out, given their frosty relationship in the past.

While CNN staff are furious over the decision and 'devastated' by the loss, former colleagues of Zucker and Gollust from NBC are speaking out to accuse them both of lying.

The pair claimed their romance began during COVID-19 and that they had always been friends beforehand. They were both previously married, but divorced their respective partners around 2018.

NBC insiders say that is a bold-faced lie and that they have been romantic since at least 2013.

On CNN yesterday, after the resignation was announced, Camerota defended Zucker on-air.

'These are two consenting adults who are both executives. That they can't have a private relationship feels wrong.

'I feel it deeply, personally, but I speak for all of us and our colleagues,' he said. 'Jeff is a remarkable person and an incredible leader. He has this uncanny ability to make every one of us feel special and valuable in our own way, even though he is managing an international news organization of thousands of people.

'I don't think that comes around all the time. It's an incredible loss. It's so regrettable.

Camerota also told The Daily Beast: 'We are all devastated. Jeff is beloved here. We all know we'll never find a smarter or more compassionate boss.'

Stelter said the entire thing was down to Cuomo and that he wanted to 'burn' the network down after being fired in November last year for helping his brother, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, navigate his own sex scandal.

Chris Cuomo and Andrew Cuomo on Chris's CNN show in May 2020. He was trashed for hosting his brother on the show then ignoring scandals that engulfed him, but his lawyers now say Allison Gollust and Jeff Zucker were equally responsible for Andrew going on the network

'Chris Cuomo is not going out quietly. He was trying to burn the place down. He was going to court, claiming he had incriminating evidence against Zucker and Gollust.

'First Andrew Cuomo then Chris Cuomo and now this... that is a remarkable domino effect,' he said.

DailyMail.com's sources say Cuomo's lawyers are now demanding that CNN preserves all of the communications between Zucker, Gollust and Andrew Cuomo.

Sources say that besides the emails and other communications that would reveal the long-term intimacy between Zucker and Gollust they would also reveal how Zucker pressured Andrew Cuomo to appear on CNN and how he pushed his personal agenda on Donald Trump and other conservatives with 'potent negative story lines.'
Cannabis addicts who survive a stoke are nearly 50 per cent more likely to suffer another one than their peers, a major study suggests.

US doctors found people aged 18 and 45 with cannabis use disorder, were 48 per cent more likely to be hospitalised with another stroke than non-smokers.

Cannabis use disorder is where someone has a dependent use of the drug despite it having a psychological, physical or social impairment on them.

The jury's still out on whether cannabis directly causes strokes or if people who are users also tend to have other habits or behaviours that increase the risk.

Some scientists claim the compounds in marijuana can cause inflammation - raising the chances of the stroke - or tighten blood vessels in the brain directly.

The latest study claims to be the first time science has looked at the drug's relationship with recurrent strokes.

Doctors examined the health records of over 160,000 young stroke survivors in the US collected over a two year period.

Recurrent strokes are where a person suffers another stroke in the days, weeks, or months, after their first, with the risk decreasing over time.

Researchers warned that dangers exist even though cannabis is legal in many parts of the US and is being slowly decriminalised in the UK.

Cannabis addicts were found to have a 48 per cent higher risk of being sent to hospital due to a repeated stroke in a new study of 160,000 young stroke survivors (stock image)

Recurrent strokes can also happen after a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), also known as a 'mini stroke', where blood supply to the brain is temporarily interrupted. TIAs can often be a prelude to a full-blown stroke.

Authors of the research said more should be done to increase awareness of the health risks of marijuana use among young people.

While previous work has indicated that people who smoke cannabis have a higher risk of a stroke, doctors wanted to explore the relationship between the drug and repeated stroke events.

Cannabis is one of the most popular drugs in both the UK and the US, with approximately 2.6million and 48.2million people using it in each country in 2019.

In the new study doctors examined data from 161,390 Americans between the ages of 18 and 44 who were hospitalised between October 2015 and 2017 and who had previously suffered a stroke or TIA.

Of this group they found 4,690 patients who had been diagnosed with a current cannabis addiction and compared their health records with their non-addicted counterparts.

The average age of both cannabis addicted and the non-addicted patient groups was 37.

Researchers found about 7 per cent of the cannabis addicts had been hospitalised for a recurrent stroke, compared to roughly 5 per cent without the addiction.

And after adjusting for patient factors such as age and other medical conditions, the researchers calculated that cannabis addicts were 48 per cent more likely to be hospitalised with recurrent strokes than their peers.

What did the study find out about young people diagnosed with cannabis addiction? The latest research examined data from 4,690 young people diagnosed with a cannabis use disorder and compared to it 156,700 people without. In addition to increased recurrent stroke risk, it found that people between the age of 18 and 44 who were addicted to cannabis were: Mostly male, at 55 per cent compared to 40 per cent without the disorder

To be from a black ethnicity, at 45 per cent compared to 37 per cent.

To also smoke tobacco, at 74 per cent compared to 40 per cent.

To have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a term for a number of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties, at 21.5 per cent compared to 19 per cent.

More likely to suffer depression, 20 per cent versus 16 per cent.

More likely to suffer psychosis, 11 per cent versus 7.5 per cent

More likely to abuse alcohol, 16.5 per cent versus 4 per cent. Advertisement

The researchers, who will present their findings at the American Stroke Association International Stroke Conference in New Orleans in the US on February 8, said the increased risk could be due to the variety of ways cannabis interacts with both blood supply and brain function.

They listed the substance's impairment of blood vessel function, increased risk of blood clotting and the and reduction of energy production in brain cells as some possible factors.

Lead author of the study Dr Akhil Jain, resident physician at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital in Pennsylvania, said the data showed a need to increase awareness of the risk of recurrent stokes from habitual cannabis among young people.

'It is essential to increase awareness among younger adults of the adverse impact of chronic, habitual use of marijuana, especially if they have established cardiovascular disease risk factors or previous stroke episodes,' he said.

One limitation of the research that the authors acknowledged is that the data collected did not consider the role of the amount of cannabis used by the addicts, or how long they had been users.

Dr Jain said this would be a key area for future research.

Strokes are caused by an interruption of blood supply to the brain, mostly due to a clot, called an ischaemic stroke, which accounts for 85 per cent of all cases.

Other cases are mostly due to a the bursting of a blood vessel which feeds the brain, called a haemorrhagic stroke.

The UK's National Institute for Health and Care excellence estimates that 26 per cent of stroke survivors will go on to have another within five years of their first, with this rising to 39 per cent a decade after.

British charity The Stroke Association estimates the health and care costs of treating strokes in the UK is 4.38billion per year.

The UK Government's Drugs Misuse report for 2018-19 data showed that 2.6 million people in England and Wales used cannabis in that year, about 7.6 per cent of the adult population.

However, cannabis use rose to 17.3 per cent of young adults aged 16 to 24, about 1.1million individuals.

In the US an estimated 48.2 million people, about 18 per cent of the population used cannabis at least once in 2019.

The latest study also collected general demographic and health data about young people suffering from cannabis addiction in the US.

It found that cannabis addicts were most likely to be male, white or black, and from low-income backgrounds.

They were also more likely to be diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and a variety of mental health conditions such as psychosis, and have an alcohol addiction, compared to their healthier peers.

A full copy of Dr Jain's study was not provided ahead of the conference event and it has not yet been peer reviewed.
An 18-meter tall basket of artificial flowers is being placed at the center of Tiananmen Square in preparation for the National Day holiday next month. Installation of the giant flower basket started on Sept. 15 and is expected to be completed by Sunday, the local government said

Sep 23, 2022 02:21 PM
ST. ANN  Discount grocer Save A Lot announced Wednesday that it had named the leader of the one of the countrys largest food distributors as its new CEO.

Leon Bergmann will join the St. Ann-based company in March from Detroit-based Harvest Sherwood Food Distributors. He previously held leadership roles at Unified Grocers and SuperValu, which used to own Save A Lot.

He succeeds previous CEO Kenneth McGrath, who left the company last summer to work for Lidl, the giant European discount grocer.

Bergmann inherits a company working to turn itself around after years of stagnation under former parent SuperValu and fierce competition from Walmart and German discounter Aldi. Under McGrath, the company worked to lighten its debt load, remodel its stores and sell all but a handful to independent operators across the country.

Save A Lot board chairman Justin Shaw said in a news release that Bergmann is the right man to keep the company moving. We look forward to working alongside him and the management team as we pursue the strategic growth opportunities ahead, Shaw said.
The Okomu Oil Palm Company in Edo State has suspended its operations in the aftermath of an incident described by management as a terrorist attack.

A worker in the company is said to have been killed by gunmen who invaded the company on Tuesday.

For now, we are forced to shut down our operations to save lives from possible reprisal. We are already working with security agencies. For now the army has taken over the security of the plantation.

The company will remain closed until the security situation improves, the companys managing director, Graham Hefer, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview on Thursday.

Mr Hefer said there was invasion of the firm, leading to the death of an employee, the damage of an equipment and the setting ablaze of 20 hectares of its rubber plantation.

The managing director, who spoke through the companys Communications Officer, Fidelis Olise, at the companys headquarters in Okomu, near Iguobazuwa in Ovia North-East Local Government Area, said about six gunmen killed an unarmed excavator operator, threw his body into the trench before setting ablaze three of the companys excavators.

These gunmen, who we believe are terrorists fighting a political war, also set fire to the plantation destroying about 20 hectares of the rubber plantation.

These are not herdsmen but terrorists who came into the plantation through the waterway and carried out a well-coordinated attack, wielding AK 47.

These terrorists were real professionals the way and manner they ambushed our workers.

We believe that this attack is politically motivated to create fears in our people who are peaceful and loyal subjects of the state government and the Benin Kingdom.

This terrorist attack is not good for business, it is not good for Edo people and obviously not good for the Nigerian environment and its economy.

The company said it would cost them about $100,000 (N50 million) to replant the 20 hectares and bring it up to its present years of maturity over the next seven years.

The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Philip Ogbadu, confirmed the incident to NAN.

Mr Ogbadu said while a gunboat had been stationed on the Okomu river side, investigation into the incident was ongoing.

(NAN)
The big picture: If all the hype and buzz around a metaverse future seems difficult to grasp, then you're not alone. Microsoft too, it appears, is struggling to realize its vision of the metaverse. Leadership of the company's mixed-reality and HoloLens divisions has been unable to adopt a clear strategy, resulting in low morale, confusion and exodus among employees, as well as canceled projects like the HoloLens 3 that was reportedly shelved last year after Microsoft decided to partner with Samsung. This partnership, where Microsoft does the software and Samsung the hardware, apparently added even more confusion that one Redmond employee described as a "s--t show."

Microsoft has previously demonstrated how it plans to bring the metaverse to businesses with its Mesh for Teams platform. The company also considers its $68.7 billion Activision Blizzard acquisition as 'building blocks' for the metaverse. While such developments may not mean much outside of cartoonish avatars in business meetings and a solid Xbox portfolio, Microsoft's most promising bets for a metaverse future have always been its HoloLens headset and mixed-reality experiences.

However, a Business Insider report has revealed that the company's HoloLens and mixed-reality divisions have been struggling to adopt a unifying strategy for the metaverse. Redmond's enterprise-focused AR headset has made numerous (and impressive) tech demos since its original reveal in 2015, and even managed to secure high-profile clients in the military and automotive space.

However, the $21.88 billion IVAS contract with the US Army that saw deliveries pushed back by a year has now become a 'trouble spot' for Microsoft. The fighting goggles are reportedly suffering from quality issues and have not been deemed as combat ready.

Moreover, a newer version of the HoloLens had also been in the works that Microsoft reportedly scrapped in mid-2021. Whether it was the consumer-focused version or another enterprise AR headset remains unknown. The focus now is on developing software for metaverse platforms, instead of hardware, in line with the vision of Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.

It's also why the company partnered with Samsung on a mixed-reality device, a decision that didn't go down well with Microsoft employees left confused by a lack of clear strategy. This has also led to an exodus of staff in Microsoft's mixed-reality division, including a couple of 20+ year veterans and over a hundred others, many of whom joined Meta/Facebook over the past year.

Arguably, not even Meta/Facebook has figured out the metaverse, at least on a consumer level, and it now looks like Microsoft might have been a bit too ambitious with the HoloLens. The company says, however, that it's committed to the AR headset and will release new versions in the future.

Perhaps Apple might be the first to convince the world of its metaverse rendition by scoring widespread consumer adoption of its upcoming mixed-reality headset. That is, if it can get around the current design challenges that could delay the launch into next year.
DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Research Report on Automobile Industry in Southeast Asia, 2016-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Southeast Asian countries in the report include Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Brunei, Laos and Cambodia.

The development of the automobile industry differs greatly among Southeast Asian countries. According to the analysis of this report, Thailand is the most developed country in terms of automobile manufacturing.

Some world's leading automobile manufacturers, such as Ford, Honda, Toyota and BMW have built factories in Thailand. In 2020, the production volume of automobiles was 1.4 million. The export volume of automobiles in Thailand was about 740 thousand units.

There are a lot of whole vehicle manufacturers in the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia. Myanmar has a small-scale automobile assembly industry. Singapore, Brunei, Laos and Cambodia do not have the automobile manufacturing industry. Generally speaking, automobile markets in most Southeast Asian countries are highly dependent on imports. The imported products include whole vehicles and auto parts.

In general, the sales volume of automobiles in Southeast Asia presents an upward trend in recent years. Especially, the constant economic development in the Philippines and Vietnam stimulates the sales growth of automobiles.

Due to the outbreak of COVID-19, many auto parts or complete vehicle factories in Southeast Asian countries had to reduce or stop production, making the global supply chain suffer a new blow. It is expected that in 2022, COVID-19 is expected to be effectively controlled, and the Southeast Asian auto manufacturing industry will show restored growth.

According to the analyst's forecast, the Southeast Asian automobile industry will grow rapidly in 2022-2030. On the one hand, the lower labor costs in Southeast Asian countries will prompt global automobile vehicle and component manufacturers to transfer production capacity to these regions.

On the other hand, the rising demand of the Southeast Asian automobile market will prompt global automobile vehicle and parts manufacturers to increase exports to these countries.

Topics Covered:

Southeast Asia's Automobile Industry Overview

Automobile Industry Overview Economic and Policy Environment of Southeast Asia's Automobile

Automobile What is the impact of COVID-19 on Southeast Asia's automobile industry?

automobile industry? Southeast Asia's Automobile Market Size, 2016-2021

Automobile Market Size, 2016-2021 Analysis of Major Automobile Companies in Southeast Asia

Key Drivers and Market Opportunities in Southeast Asia's Automobile Industry

Automobile Industry What are the key drivers, challenges, and opportunities for Southeast Asia's automobile industry during the forecast period 2022-2030?

automobile industry during the forecast period 2022-2030? Which are the key players in Southeast Asia's Automobile market and what are their competitive advantages?

Automobile market and what are their competitive advantages? What is the expected revenue of the Southeast Asia's automobile market during the forecast period of 2022-2030?

automobile market during the forecast period of 2022-2030? What are the strategies adopted by the key players in the market to increase their market share in the industry?

Which segment of the Southeast Asia's automobile market is expected to dominate the market in 2030?

automobile market is expected to dominate the market in 2030? What are the major adverse factors facing the Southeast Asia's automobile industry?

Key Topics Covered:



1 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Singapore

1.1 Development Environment of Singapore Automobile Industry

1.1.1 Geography

1.1.2 Population

1.1.3 Economy

1.1.4 Minimum Wage in Manufacturing in Singapore

1.2 Operation Status of Singapore Automobile Industry, 2005-2020

1.2.1 Production Status of Automobile Industry in Singapore

1.2.2 Sales Status of Automobile Industry in Singapore

1.2.3 Import and Export Status of Automobile Industry in Singapore



2 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Thailand

2.1 Development Environment of Thailand Automobile Industry

2.1.1 Geography

2.1.2 Population

2.1.3 Economy

2.1.4 Minimum Wage in Manufacturing in Thailand

2.2 Operation Status of Thailand Automobile Industry, 2005-2020

2.2.1 Production Status of Automobile Industry in Thailand

2.2.2 Sales Status of Automobile Industry in Thailand

2.2.3 Import and Export Status of Automobile Industry in Thailand

2.3 Major Automobile Manufacturers in Thailand

2.3.1 Ford

2.3.2 Mazda

2.3.3 Mitsubishi

2.3.4 BMW

2.3.5 Honda

2.3.6 Nissan

2.3.7 Toyota



3 Analysis of Automobile Industry in the Philippines

3.1 Development Environment of Philippines Automobile Industry

3.1.1 Geography

3.1.2 Population

3.1.3 Economy

3.1.4 Minimum Wage in Manufacturing in Philippines

3.2 Operation Status of Philippines Automobile Industry, 2005-2020

3.2.1 Production Status of Automobile Industry in Philippines

3.2.2 Sales Status of Automobile Industry in Philippines

3.2.3 Import and Export Status of Automobile Industry in Philippines

3.3 Major Automobile Manufacturers in Philippines

3.3.1 Toyota

3.3.2 Honda

3.3. 3 Nissan

3.3.4 Mitsubishi

3.3.5 Daewoo

3.3.6 KIA



4 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Malaysia

4.1 Development Environment of Automobile Industry in Malaysia

4.1.1 Geography

4.1.2 Population

4.1.3 Economy

4.1.4 Minimum Wage in Manufacturing in Malaysia

4.2 Operation Status of Malaysia Automobile Industry, 2005-2020

4.2.1 Production Status of Automobile Industry in Malaysia

4.2.2 Sales Status of Automobile Industry in Malaysia

4.2.3 Import and Export Status of Automobile Industry in Malaysia

4.3 Enterprise Profile of Major Automobile Manufacturers in Malaysia

4.3.1 Proton Auto

4.3.2 Perodua

4.3.3 Toyota

4.3.4 Honda

4.3. 5 Nissan

4.3.6 KIA

4.3.8 Benz

4.3.9 BMW

4.3.10 Volvo



5 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Indonesia

5.1 Development Environment of Indonesia Automobile Industry

5.1.1 Geography

5.1.2 Population

5.1.3 Economy

5.1.4 Minimum Wage in Manufacturing in Indonesia

5.2 Operation Status of Indonesia Automobile Industry, 2005-2020

5.2.1 Production Status of Automobile Industry in Indonesia

5.2.2 Sales Status of Automobile Industry in Indonesia

5.2.3 Import and Export Status of Automobile Industry in Indonesia

5.3 Major Automobile Manufacturers in Indonesia

5.3.1 Toyota

5.3.2 Mitsubishi

5.3.3 Suzuki

5.3.4 Honda

5.3.5 Nissan

5.3.6 BMW

5.3.7 Benz

5.3.8 Audi



6 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Vietnam

6.1 Development Environment of Vietnam Automobile Industry

6.1.1 Geography

6.1.2 Population

6.1.3 Economy

6.1.4 Minimum Wage in Manufacturing in Vietnam

6.2 Operation Status of Vietnam Automobile Industry, 2005-2020

6.2.1 Production Status of Automobile Industry in Vietnam

6.2.2 Sales Status of Automobile Industry in Vietnam

6.2.3 Import and Export Status of Automobile Industry in Vietnam

6.3 Major Automobile Manufacturers in Vietnam

6.3.1 VMC

6.3.2 MEKONG

6.3.3 VINASTAR

6.3.4 Ford Vietnam

6.3.5 Mercedes Benz Vietnam

6.3.6 TMV

6.3.7 VIETINDO

6.3.8 DAEWOO

6.3.9 VISUCO

6.3.10 HINO Vietnam



7 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Myanmar

7.1 Development Environment of Myanmar Automobile Industry

7.2 Operation Status of Myanmar Automobile Industry, 2005-2020



8 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Brunei

8.1 Development Environment of Brunei Automobile Industry

8.2 Operation Status of Brunei Automobile Industry, 2005-2020



9 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Laos

9.1 Development Environment of Laos Automobile Industry

9.2 Operation Status of Laos Automobile Industry, 2005-2020



10 Analysis of Automobile Industry in Cambodia

10.1 Development Environment of Automobile Industry in Cambodia

10.2 Operation Status of Cambodia Automobile Industry, 2005-2020



11 Forecast on Automobile Industry in Southeast Asia, 2022-2026

11.1 Analysis on Factors Influencing Development of Automobile Industry in Southeast Asia

11.1.1 Favorable Factors

11.1.2 Unfavorable Factors

11.2 Forecast on Supply of Automobile Industry in Southeast Asia, 2022-2030

11.3 Forecast on Market Demand of Automobiles in Southeast Asia, 2022-2030

11.4 Covid-19 Impact on Automobile Industry in Southeast Asia



Companies Mentioned

Ford

Mazda

Mitsubishi

BMW

Honda

Nissan

Toyota

Daewoo

KIA

Proton Auto

Perodua

Benz

Volvo

Suzuki

Audi

VMC

MEKONG

VINASTAR

TMV

VIETINDO

VISUCO

HINO Vietnam

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/q52s5b

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



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets
Following the attack on Asaduddin Owaisi's convoy in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut, the AIMIM chief on Thursday urged the Election Commission to conduct an independent probe over the matter. Owaisi was in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh's Meerut for campaigning earlier today. After reaching Delhi Owaisi while speaking to Delhi said, "I had a roadshow in Meerut and Kithau. When I was returning, bullets were fired at my car. somehow my car managed to escape. I have seen two people. One was wearing a red hoodie while the another was wearing a white jacket. The tyre of my car punctured and after 2-3 km, I changed the car. I talked to the Additional SP who said one is arrested and arms were recovered. There are three bullets marks on my car. The SP said the forensic team will investigate." "It is the responsibility of the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government as well as central government to look into the matter. I will also meet the Lok Sabha Speaker on this matter. Attack on a sitting MP is a very serious matter. I believe it is a well-planned attempt to hurt me. The incident took place near the toll plaza, which means the attackers were already doing recce. It is not the first time that there is an attack on me. The Election Commission should take notice of it since I was campaigning for the polls," he added. Meanwhile, Deepak Bhuker, Superintendant of Police, Hapur said that one person has been apprehended and arms were recovered from him. "One person has been apprehended. He is being questioned and the weapon is recovered from him. His accomplice managed to flee. The search operation is underway for him. Nobody was injured so far. We are checking the CCTV footage. The investigation is underway," said Bhuker. Earlier on Thursday, two people attacked Owaisi and fired bullets on his convoy when he was leaving Meerut's Kithoudh area for Delhi. The incident took place near Chhajarsi toll plaza. He also informed that his car got punctured which led him to leave the place in another vehicle. Soon after the incident, Owaisi said, "I was leaving for Delhi after a poll event in Kithaur, Meerut. Around three to four rounds of bullets were fired upon my vehicle by two people near Chhajarsi toll plaza." "They were a total of 3-4 people. Tyres of my vehicle got punctured, then I left the place in another vehicle," he added. The Uttar Pradesh assembly election for the 403 assembly seats would be held in seven phases from February 10 to March 7. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
Brandon Isabelle, 25, has been charged with two counts of murder for the deaths of Danielle Hoyle, 27, and their 2-day-old baby, Kennedy

A Tennessee man has been charged with murder after authorities say he fatally shot the mother of his two-day-old child and hurled the newborn into the Mississippi River.

Brandon Isabelle, 25, was arrested on Wednesday on two counts of first-degree murder, murder in the perpetration of aggravated kidnapping and tampering or fabricating evidence, after police say he admitted to killing Danielle Hoyle, 27, and tossing their baby, Kennedy Hoyle, into the water.

Officials were still searching for the infant, but Memphis police said in a tweet that evidence suggests she is dead.

The incident began unfolding at around 11.15pm on Tuesday, when police officers located an abandoned vehicle in the area of Sedgwick Street and Levi Road in Whitehaven, and nearby found the body of Danielle Hoyle, who had been shot in the head, police said.

Officers were told by Hoyle's family that her baby had been with the woman, but no child was found in the car, police said.

Isabelle allegedly admitted to police in Memphis that he 'lured' Danielle Hoyle (left) to a location in Whitehaven, Tennessee, on Tuesday, and shot her in the head. He then grabbed baby Kennedy from her mother's car and tossed her into the Mississippi River

On Wednesday afternoon, police found Kennedy's car seat abandoned in a Walmart parking lot

A search began, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation issued an Amber Alert for Kennedy.

Hours later, Kennedy's car seat was found abandoned in a Walmart parking lot, but there was no sign of the baby.

Police quickly identified Isabelle, Kennedy's biological father, as a suspect and brought him in for questioning.

According to an affidavit of complaint, during questioning, Isabelle admitted to 'luring' the mother of his baby to Whitehaven and fatally shooting her.

He 'also admitted to taking the two day old child out of Danielle's vehicle, driving the child to Island Park and the Upper Mud Island Boat Ramp, where he tossed the child into the water,' the document alleged.

At the time of her death, Kennedy weighed just 6lbs and was 17 inches long.

No motive has been provided.

Kennedy was welcomed into the world on Monday. She weighed just 6lbs and was 17inches in height

Isabelle allegedly told police he disposed of his daughter in the area of Island Park and the Upper Mud Island Boat Ramp, pictured above being searched by cops on Wednesday

A police helicopter is seen flying over the search area on Wednesday. Police believe Kennedy is dead

The 25-year-old suspect told police he then threw the gun used to kill Hoyle into the Mississippi River and Wolf River Delta on Memphis.

Law enforcement officers were scouring the Mud Island area of Memphis, along the Mississippi River, on Wednesday afternoon in search of Kennedy's body.

Kennedy's devastated maternal grandmother, April Campbell, said she only got to hold her granddaughter once for 10 minutes, reported WLOX. She now wants her daughter and grandchild's suspected killer brought to justice.

'I want him to suffer like he made my baby suffer,' Campbell told Action News 5. 'I want him to hurt. I don't want it to be easy for him. ... why would you hurt a baby?'

Hoyle worked at FedEx. She is survived by a 10-year-old daughter.

Danielle Hoyle worked at FedEx to support her two children, including a 10-year-old daughter. She is pictured on the right during her latest pregnancy
A suspect was shot and wounded in a critical incident Thursday morning on Madisons Far East Side, authorities said.

Authorities would not say if police shot the suspect. The Dane County Sheriffs Office said only that the incident was an officer-involved shooting and that shots were fired.

No officers were injured in the shooting, which happened around 8:20 a.m. near the intersection of American Parkway and Eastpark Boulevard, Madison police spokesperson Stephanie Fryer said in a statement.

One witness who would not give her name but works in the small shopping center near where the shooting occurred said she saw two SUV-type vehicles peel out of the centers parking lot, then people get out and begin shooting on Eastpark. The vehicles were still parked along the side of Eastpark later Thursday morning, with a silver vehicle, its windshield wipers running, wedged between the front bumper of one of the vehicles and the rear bumper of the other.

Another witness, Carol Otterson, was on American Parkway driving to an appointment when she saw several people she assumed were police with guns drawn around a small white or silver car on Eastpark. In the few seconds she witnessed the incident, she saw one of the people around the vehicle smash in the drivers side window, she said, but she did not see any shots fired.

Something was going down, she said. They were animated about what was happening.

Madison police officers were assisting agents with the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation with an investigation when the suspect was shot, Fryer said.

No Madison officers fired their weapons, Fryer said.

DCI typically handles investigations of officer-involved shootings, but since DCI was involved in the incident, the Dane County Sheriffs Office is handling the investigation, Sheriffs Office spokesperson Elise Schaffer told the Wisconsin State Journal. The Sheriffs Office was not involved in the incident, she said.

Asked if it was a DCI agent who shot the suspect, Schaffer said it was a multi-jurisdictional arrest effort taking place and shots were fired. The suspect was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Schaffer would not specify what the arrest was for and did not include that information in a statement issued later Thursday.

The Sheriffs Office asked that anyone who witnessed the incident call the Dane County tip line at 608-284-6900.

State Journal reporters Emily Hamer and Jeff Richgels contributed to this report.
SCOTTSBLUFF  The West Nebraska Arts Center, with the support of the Nebraska Arts Council, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, the MidAmerica Arts Alliance, and the National Endowment for the Arts, is pleased to present Share Love of Art.

This is a Valentines-themed gift opportunity for those who are shopping for a special someone or friend. The way it works is by having customers come to the arts center and create a box of goodies. The boxes start at $20.

Customers will have the opportunity to pick the items they want in their box. There will be homemade cookies, handmade cards, chocolates, hot chocolate, and original art from local artists. Additional items are available as well to make your gift particularly special. The extras include original artwork, hand-crafted scarves, prints from original artwork, handmade Valentinesthemed treasures, and more. We will also take calls for people who are unable to come. We will put a box together for you; ready for pickup at your convenience.

This is a way we can have fun with Valentines Day and offer some great gifts to our community, said program manager Stephanie Coley. There is always something happening at the West Nebraska Arts Center, and we love to involve the everyone. So, help us share the love.

When you participate in our special events for the West Nebraska Arts Center, you are helping us provide multi-generational classes, cultural experiences, education of the arts, scholarships, community fellowship and growth. We are appreciative of any support we are given, and we are here to serve our community any way that we can. Thank you for being such a supportive community and making the West Nebraska Arts Center meaningful! By giving us assistance and contributions, we can share the love that we receive! West Nebraska Arts Center is a cultural 501c3 non-profit organization committed to education, awareness and excellence in the arts, serving the North Platte Valley Region. WNAC is located at the corner of 1st Avenue and 18th Street in Scottsbluff, NE. Visit the gallery Tuesday through Friday 9 to 5, and Weekends from 1 to 5, closed Mondays. Visit www.thewnac.com or find us on Facebook.

The Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency, has supported the programs of this organization through its matching grants program funded by the Nebraska Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Visit www.nebraskaartscouncil.org for more information on how the Nebraska Arts Council can assist your organization, or how you can support the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.
PRAGUE (Reuters) - The United States has announced plans to send nearly 3,000 extra troops to Poland and Romania to shield NATO allies in Eastern Europe from a potential spillover of the crisis over the massing of Russian troops near Ukraine.

The new plan goes above and beyond the 8,500 troops the Pentagon put on alert last month to deploy to Europe if needed. NATO defence ministers are expected to discuss further reinforcements at their next meeting on Feb. 16-17.

The following are current western nations' military deployments in eastern NATO member states, some national assets and reinforcements that have been announced or are being considered.

POLAND:

- Around 4,500 U.S. troops are in Poland in both a NATO and a bilateral capacity, mostly stationed in the west of the country.

- In a deal signed with Poland in 2020, the United States promised to increase its troop presence by approximately 1,000, although implementation has remained under discussion.

- A NATO Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) multinational battlegroup of 1,000 troops, led by the United States and including troops from Croatia, Romania and the United Kingdom.

- Around 1,700 U.S. service members, mainly from the 82nd Airborne Division, will deploy from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to Poland, under the U.S. plans announced on Feb.2 .

ESTONIA:

- A NATO Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) battlegroup of 900 since 2017. Led by the United Kingdom, includes troops from France, Denmark and Iceland. One armoured infantry battalion, self-propelled artillery, air defence.

- NATO Baltic Air Policing: 4x F-16 fighter jets from Belgium. Additional deployment, from Jan. 26 until the end of this week: 6x F-15 fighter jets from the United States

LATVIA:

- A NATO Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) battlegroup of 1,500 since 2017. Led by Canada, includes troops from Albania, the Czech Republic, Iceland, Italy, Montenegro, Poland, Slovenia, Spain and Slovakia.

LITHUANIA:

- A NATO Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) battlegroup of 1,200 since 2017. Led by Germany, includes troops from the Netherlands, Norway, Czech Republic, Belgium and Luxembourg. Includes 12 Leopard tanks, armoured vehicles, anti-tank capabilities, air defence, radio intelligence.

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- A U.S. infantry battalion of 500 troops, includes Abrams tanks and Bradley armoured vehicles.

- NATO Baltic Air Policing: 4x F-16 fighter jets from Poland

Additional deployment from Jan. 27: 4x F-16 fighter jets from Denmark

ROMANIA:

- NATO has a multinational land force of up to 4,000 troops in Romania.

- The United States has 900 soldiers in the country, some as part of the NATO force and some under separate bilateral arrangements.

- Italian and French troops are part of air and navy policing/patrolling missions. German Air Force Eurofighters will deploy to Romania in February and March.

- Romania's foreign minister said on Feb. 3 he expected France to lead future NATO battlegroup in the country.

- A Stryker squadron of around 1,000 U.S. service members based in Vilseck, Germany will be sent to Romania, the Pentagon said on Feb. 2.

BULGARIA:

- Bulgaria plans a battlegroup of up to 1,000 troops under Bulgarian command and in close cooperation with NATO, which could include soldiers from other allied countries. It could be formed in April or May.

- The Bulgarian government gave a green light to Spain to send up to 10 Eurofighter warplanes and up to 200 soldiers to support the Black Sea nation's air policing activities from February to April. Netherlands is expected to deploy two F-35 aircraft to Bulgaria in April and May.

- Under a deal with Bulgaria, the United States can keep up to 2,500 U.S. troops at several joint bases. At present, there are 200 U.S. troops along with infantry fighting vehicles, tanks, helicopters and other military equipment for training until the end of June.

HUNGARY:

- Hungary has been mentioned as a potential place to deploy additional NATO troops. However the country's defence minister said on Jan. 30 that there was no need for more units on top of unknown numbers currently present for drills.

SLOVAKIA:

- Government officials have said Slovakia was https://www.reuters.com/article/ukraine-crisis-slovakia-idINP7N2R800I among countries where NATO may deploy troops but no decision has been made to request troops.

- Slovakia was due to sign a long-planned bilateral defence cooperation agreemen https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/slovak-government-approves-defence-treaty-with-united-states-2022-01-12t with the United States on Thursday, which, if ratified, would open the possibility for future use of two Slovak airports by the U.S. military.

(Reporting by Joanna Plucinska in Warsaw, Andrius Sitas in Vilnius, Tsvetelia Tsolova in Sofia, Gergely Szakacs in Budapest, Luiza Ilie in Bucharest, Jan Lopatka in Prague; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel)
DENVER, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CareerWise Colorado, an innovator in modern youth apprenticeship programs, and CompTIA Apprenticeships for Tech have joined together to develop new career options in information technology (IT) for young people while helping employers recruit new tech talent to fill their staffing needs.

The two organizations announced a partnership that showcases the alignment between CareerWise Colorado's national program standards registered with USDOL and CompTIA's newly established National Guideline Standards for in-demand IT occupations. The programs aim to fill high-demand IT occupations by expanding training and certification opportunities to more people, especially from groups that are under-represented in the current tech workforce.

"Youth apprenticeship can be transformational. We've seen it transform the lives of students through opportunity, and change how businesses access early-career talent," said Noel Ginsburg, CareerWise founder and CEO. "CareerWise's partnership with CompTIA further strengthens the mark of quality trainingmultiplying the value of apprenticeship for employers and apprentices and paves the way for the next generation of technology talent."

"There is a place for anyone in today's tech workforce, where creativity, personality and versatility are just as important as technical skills," said Amy Kardel, senior vice president for workforce relationships at CompTIA. "Together with CareerWise Colorado we will help young people enhance their current skills and talents with technical and business training and professional certifications that will ready them for careers as IT professionals."

Instruction and training delivered through the apprenticeship program is based on National Guideline Standards created by CompTIA and approved by the USDOL. These standards detail the competencies in technical and employability skills that apprentices need to join the IT workforce in occupations such as tech project coordinators, tech support specialists, network support specialists and cybersecurity support technicians.

Employers participating in the program gain access to a deeper, more inclusive talent pool that better reflects the growing diversity of today's workforce. Registered apprenticeships for technology jobs also offer businesses the opportunity to upskill and reskill current workers, while connecting new candidates to promising careers in IT.

About CareerWise Colorado

CareerWise Colorado's youth apprenticeship system creates new, diverse talent pipelines for employers and new career pathways for students to access high-demand, high-paying careers. Student apprentices work toward high school graduation and earn postsecondary credit, industry credentials or both in their chosen career path. Established by the state of Colorado's Business Experiential-Learning (BEL) Commission in 2016, CareerWise works with more than 170 employers and 21 school districts to facilitate apprenticeship. More information is available at careerwisecolorado.org.

About CompTIA Apprenticeships for Tech

CompTIA Apprenticeships for Tech is a national initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) to increase the number of skilled technology workers and expand tech career opportunities for diverse populations, including women, individuals with disabilities and people of color. Maher & Maher, an affiliate of the American Institutes for Research and a recognized leader in building innovative and successful apprenticeship initiatives, and CompTIA, the nonprofit association for the IT industry and workforce, were selected by the USDOL to serve as a national Industry Intermediary for expansion of apprenticeship in tech occupations. built according to the Registered Apprenticeship Program model. For more information visit https://www.comptia.org/content/lp/apprenticeships-for-tech.

Media Contacts

Steven Ostrowski

CompTIA

[email protected]

+1 630.678.8468

Mary Knight

CareerWise

[email protected]

+1 715.314.1411

SOURCE CompTIA Apprenticeships for Tech
He joined the Congress in the presence of party state in-charge Devender Yadav and National spokesperson Gourav Vallabh.

Welcoming the retired Major General into the party, Yadav tweeted in Hindi, "Retired Major General C.K. A warm welcome to Jakhmola Ji for leaving Aam Aadmi Party @INCUttarakhand today. I hope that you will work in the interest of Uttarakhand by following the ideology of which you have joined the party."

Uttarakhand is slated to go to the Assembly polls on February 14 and the counting of the votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
LIBREVILLE, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Gabonese government, via a statement issued Wednesday, strongly condemns the attempted coup in Guinea-Bissau.

The Gabonese government "demands that the military return to their barracks and maintain a republican posture," reads the statement.

The Guinea-Bissau government spokesperson Pamela Ferreira announced late Tuesday that some military members have tried to overthrow President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, and it is a failed attempted coup d'etat.

President Embalo chaired the council of ministers at the government palace on Tuesday afternoon, when the putschist attacked them with heavy weapons, killing and injuring several members of the president's security.

The motives of the military are still unknown. 
Aid groups have condemned a militia group for killing at least 60 people at a camp for internally displaced people in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Norwegian Refugee Council, which supports a school in the region, says two of the school's students are among those killed.

Authorities say fighters from the CODECO militia group attacked residents of the Plaine Savo camp in Ituri province with guns and machetes.

Media reports say CODECO initially came into contact with Congolese army soldiers near the camp Tuesday night but changed direction and got past them to carry out its assault.

The motive for the militias attack is unknown.

Tom Peyre-Costa is the Norwegian Refugee Council regional advisor in West and Central Africa. He says attacks against civilians are on the rise, especially in the camps.

"We have seen a new trend from armed groups in attacking specifically, deliberately displacement camps and this must not become a trend," said Costa. "This is why we have strongly condemned this act."

The NRC said another 68 people have been killed in five camps in the same vicinity since November.



The armed group responsible for Tuesdays attack says it is fighting for land and resources in the country's east.



The United Nations says the groups fighters have killed hundreds of civilians and forced thousands to flee from their homes in Ituri.



Peyre-Costa says civilians need to be protected from those who want to harm them.

We are calling the Congolese government to better protect its civilians in this region. We also need the humanitarian community and the international community to do better in terms of protection and assistance," said Costa.

"We also need everyone to come back to the table of discussion. We need dialogue between these communities. So they need to lay down their weapons. There is no place for violence in a country that is facing the biggest humanitarian crisis in Africa.

The NRC said the 24,000 people living in the Savo camp are among the 1.7 million people displaced in Ituri province.
Sen. Deb Fischer objected Wednesday to the Biden administration's decision to hold a closed, rather than open briefing with senators on Afghanistan and Ukraine.

Fischer, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and top Republican on its subcommittee on strategic forces, attended the meeting with Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

"I am frustrated," Fischer stated in a news release.

"This briefing should have been open to the public. Instead, it took place behind closed doors, and administration officials purposely stonewalled, limiting senators' opportunities to ask important questions."

"Nebraskans have not forgotten the terrorist attack at the Kabul airport that killed one of our own," Fischer said. "No one has been held accountable.

"The American people deserve to hear from those responsible for what the U.S. faces now in Afghanistan and with the ongoing situation in Ukraine."

The Pentagon said Wednesday that Biden was ordering 2,000 U.S.-based troops to Poland and Germany and shifting 1,000 more from Germany to Romania, demonstrating America's commitment to NATO's eastern flank amid fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Associated Press reported.
The central government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that around 77 lakh people who did not have any valid identity cards have been administered with the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 14.55 lakh have been administered with both the doses. Perusing the affidavit of the Centre, a bench of Justices DY Chandrachud, Surya Kant and Vikram Nath, however, said that as per the affidavit only 4.82 lakh people, without an ID card, have been vaccinated. The bench told Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Centre, "Affidavit says that only 4,82,000 people have been vaccinated without any identity cards. Is this not a very small number?" Bhati clarified that the affidavit that the bench is referring to was filed in August, 2021 and the figures have been updated now. "According to the updated fugues 77 lakh people without ID cards have been given the first dose and 14.55 lakh have been given both doses," Bhati said. The top court asked ASG to file an affidavit with the updated figure. It also asked as to why the Delhi government has not filed any affidavit in the case and directed it to file its affidavit and posted the matter for hearing after three weeks. Earlier, the top court had issued notice to the Centre and Delhi government on a petition seeking vaccination and rehabilitation of homeless, beggars and vagabonds amid COVID-19 pandemic across India. "The reason why people are required to take to the streets to beg is to eke out an elementary livelihood in the absence of education and employment. It is a social-economic problem and cannot be remedied in this way," the bench had observed while saying that it cannot pass an order to remove beggars from the streets. The apex court had said that it cannot ban begging and beggars cannot be washed away from public places and traffic junctions. It had said that in the context of COVID-19, beggars, vagabonds, homeless are entitled to medical facilities as others. The court was hearing a PIL filed by advocate Kush Kalra seeking to restrain beggars, vagabonds or those who are homeless from begging at traffic junctions, in markets and public places to avoid the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic across India and to rehabilitate them.The top court had asked the Centre and Delhi government to apprise it about steps are being taken to deal with this human problem. It had opined that the issue is a socio-economic problem and require urgent attention of Centre and Delhi government regarding vaccination of beggars, and homeless in the national capital. (ANI)
There is a heavy security presence at the Buhari House national secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja as the ruling party is set to inaugurate the chairmen of its state chapters.

Armed policemen and personnel of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) are noticed at the gate of the secretariat and at both ends of Blantyre Street where it is located apparently to ward off any threat to the event.

The security operatives were seen screening party members and visitors before being allowed into the secretariat.

As at 11am, the operatives had stopped some supporters of some of the chairmen from accessing the secretariat.

Journalists who are on ground to cover the event are also barred from accessing the venue of the inauguration.

It was not clear why the operatives were drafted to the secretariat by the leadership of the party.

None of the party officials could be reached for comments at the time of filing this report.

When PREMIUM TIMES approached one of the policemen, Adisa Kazeem, he said their presence was a mere protocol.

Festering Crises

However, it was gathered that the presence of the security personnel is not unconnected with the crises in some state chapters of the APC and the existence of the two or more factions in those states.

Amidst internal crises, last year, the ruling party held state congresses across the country to elect officers to steer its affairs at the state level for the next four years.

The event was greeted with rancour as party faithful conducted parallel congresses which produced two sets of executive bodies in some of the 36 states.

With its National Convention slated for February 26, the Governor Mala Buni-led caretaker committee has not been able to resolve the crises ahead of the convention.

In October last year, the party inaugurated a nine-member National Reconciliation Committee headed by former Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Adamu, to tour the troubled states and reconcile its aggrieved members ahead of the national convention.

The committee, which submitted its interim report this week, told the party that some members were still aggrieved.

Apart from Gombe and Zamfara, there are still factions in states such as Kwara, Osun, Ogun, Kwara, Kano, Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Bauchi.
Rashtriya Lok Dal president Jayant Chaudhary on Thursday claimed that youth, farmers and labourers are supporting the RLD-Samajwadi Party alliance in Uttar Pradesh which is adding to BJP's frustration. Addressing a press conference with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr today, the RLD chief said, "Youths, farmers, and labourers are in support of SP-RLD alliance, which seems to be adding to the BJP's frustration." "The language he (Yogi Adityanath) uses doesn't suit the CM post. He is threatening us. He probably couldn't understand the mood of this region," Chaudhary said. He further clarified the issues of this election which include unemployment, health, education and other public issues. "The issues of this election are very clear: unemployment, health, education and other public issues. Farmers and the youth have to decide. This is the government that put the iron nails on roads (during farmers' protests)," he added. Taking a jibe at the BJP-led central government over Union Budget 2022-23, Chaudhary said that there is nothing for farmers, the middle-class, poor people and MGNREGA's fund has been cut down by 34 per cent in this budget. "It seems Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's budget is written by PMO," the RLD chief said. Referring to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav asserted there is a superstition that whichever CM visits Noida, he losses the polls. "There is a superstition (that whichever CM visits to Noida, loses the poll). But there is another belief that whoever goes to Noida also wins the polls," Yadav said. The SP chief further stated, "I started my cycle yatra in 2011 from Noida and won. I'm there again because we have to form the government." Yadav called his party and ally workers "true patriots" and said, "how can the people spreading hatred and creating a communal divide, be patriots?" On being asked if there is any impact of Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) on poll prospects of SP-RLD alliance, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav said, "I've always said that Ambedkarwadis should join Samajwadis because we have to save the Constitution and democracy." The SP chief informed that he will again appeal to Ambedkarwadis to join his party. "I appeal again to Ambedkarwadis to join us," Yadav added. The Uttar Pradesh assembly election for the 403 assembly seats would be held in seven phases from February 10 to March 7. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
WASHINGTON  A bipartisan group of more than 80 lawmakers has sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to speed the evacuation of Afghans who aided U.S. forces during their 20-year occupation.

There's a lot happening in Afghanistan, and those people are still there. And if we can get them out more quickly, that's our obligation," Rep. Bill Keating, D-Mass., the lead author of the letter, told USA TODAY. "We don't want to see people in danger, families hurt because we're not moving fast enough."

The joint letter, obtained by USA TODAY, calls on the administration to speed the processing of visa applicants at so-called "lily pads," or military bases outside Afghanistan where Afghans are brought after evacuation. The lawmakers also encourage the administration to open more lily pads in third countries to help with the flow of applicants.

"In the midst of everything else going on and the challenges we face, we don't want this lost as a priority," Keating, said.

The letter also calls on the administration to work closely with nongovernmental organizations on streamlining the process and ensure that evacuees can be referred to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for consideration should their visa applications not be approved.

The message from lawmakers comes as a humanitarian crisis engulfs Afghanistan. A collapsing economy, widespread famine, freezing winter and the return of the Taliban's brutal rule have caused millions to try and flee the country out of desperation.

More: With last plane out of Kabul, America's 20-year war in Afghanistan is over

The lawmakers wrote they were "encouraged" by the appointment of Curtis Ried, a longtime national security aide, as the administration's point person on Afghan resettlement efforts. Ried coordinates the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security and State's efforts at evacuating and relocating Afghans from a nerve center in the White House.

Story continues

"We're asking him to make this part of his agenda," Keating said.

Ried's appointment comes after The AfghanEvac Coalition, a coalition of 150 organizations working to resettle Afghans, penned an open letter to the administration calling for greater coordination of resettlement efforts.

More: Staying could mean death. The escape nearly killed her. How one woman fled Afghanistan for freedom.

Ried is seen as an "effective" coordinator "with the experience and the capability to get this job done," according to Shawn Van Diver, the coalition's founder. Yet much of the work of navigating the process has fallen on volunteers aiding Afghans, a burden aid groups now want the federal government to more greatly shoulder.

"It seems like we're not talking about this from the White House," Van Diver said, cautioning that "this job is not done" even as the Biden administration is "making progress every week" albeit at an unsatisfactory pace.

Advocates working to help evacuate and resettle Afghans in the U.S. want the administration to take over more parts of the process and streamline others, such as allowing for a virtual screening of visa applicants or refunding the humanitarian parole fee which applicants are required to pay.

"We've got to figure out a way to have a sustainable, reliable pathway for the new neighbors that are coming in. And right now it's kind of abysmal," Van Diver said of resettlement efforts.

More: Evacuations in Afghanistan: What to know about who's going out, where are they going and more

"We're hoping that if things can't be done  if there are problems  let's identify what they are and see if they can be rectified," Keating said, calling the process a "continuing dialogue" between the two government branches.

Eight military bases across the U.S. have been hosting Afghans as they await final processing. This month, those operations will be centralized to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst near Trenton, New Jersey.

About 14,000 people remain at five of those military bases, with nearly 11,000 alone stationed at McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in an encampment known as "Liberty Village."

Of the approximately 76,000 Afghan nationals who have arrived in the U.S. through the Operation Allies Welcome, the military's evacuation operation, over 62,000 resettled as of January, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Yet tens of thousands more Afghans who directly aided the U.S. and its allies or those who would otherwise be targeted by the Taliban, such as journalists and human rights activists, are still in limbo as they search for a path to safety.

"People are broken, people are hurting," Van Diver said of the emotional toll felt by thousands of American veterans and volunteers working to help U.S. allies. "We still have an opportunity to show that we are who we say we are. I want to be that country. I want to be the country that leaves no one behind."

Follow Matthew Brown online @mrbrownsir.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Afghanistan: Lawmakers ask Biden for faster evacuation, resettlement
Five years after tying the knot, '13 Reasons Why' alum Tommy Dorfman and husband Peter Zurkuhlen are officially breaking up. According to online court records obtained by E! News, Zurkuhlen filed for divorce from Dorfman, on Tuesday, February 1. Last July, the 29-year-old star came out as a transgender woman after "privately identifying and living as a woman" for a year prior. In an interview quote obtained by E! News, Dorfman reflected on her professional life and opened up about the change in her personal life moving forward, noting that she and her spouse have redefined their relationship. "Personally, it's wild to be 29 and going through puberty again. Some days I feel like I'm 14. As a result of that shift, the types of romantic partnerships I seek out are different. I was in a nine-year relationship in which I was thought of as a more male-bodied person, with a gay man. I love him so much, but we've been learning that as a trans woman, what I'm interested in is not necessarily reflected in a gay man," she told in the interview. "So, we've had incredible conversations to redefine our relationship as friends. Transitioning has been liberating and clarifying," E! News quoted Dorfman saying. The '13 Reasons Why' alum also reflected on her transitioning process, and said, "I'm aligning my body with my soul. Yet as a result of that, I am losing some things. I have to reckon with the fact that I brought along a lot of people and things who might not end up being there for this part of my journey. All I can do now is look to a future where I am, hopefully, just radically honest. That's the person I am becoming." Dorfman and 33-year-old Zurkuhlen, who reportedly met through a mutual friend in 2005, got engaged in April 2015 and married in Portland, Maine in November 2016. (ANI)
Editor of the hugely popular Brewer's Droop and honorary lifetime member of the Advertising Media Association of South Africa, Chris Brewer has sadly passed away.

Chris Brewer joined the ad industry in London, and spent most of his career in media analysis and planning - but performed just about every advertising task from creative to research.Brewers Droop started as a letter that Brewer penned using a fountain pen and mailed via post to his existing and potential clients when he owned an advertising agency.

In the beginning, there were about 80 letters, all signed individually, but this number soon rose to 200. The first Brewers Droop by email was sent on 3 June 1997. Over the years the content shifted from advertising and marketing industries and more about life in general. Brewer called it "a kind of Grumpy Old Mans Diary". It has been quoted in The Times of India (Delhi) and discussed in parliament and radio.

He is an honorary lifetime member of the Advertising Media Association of South Africa (AMASA) and regularly advised agencies and clients regarding their media plan costs and strategies.

An adman through and through

Tracey Baard, a long time friend of Brewer's, who worked extensively and for many years with him, told Bizcommunity that Brewer was an adman through and through.

"He loved the ad industry, and he was passionate about stats, figures and a good pie chart. He was an incredible writer. His popular Brewers Droop was always a highlight in many inboxes."

She adds: "I will never forget his sense of humour - dry and unmistakably English. Very English. Most of all, he was a family man. He loved his wife Michele dearly and deeply. His boys were his pride and joy. My heartfelt condolences to them."

He was many things, to many people. I am deeply saddened by the news of his passing. South Africa and the industry has lost a good one."

Those who have been in the SA advertising industry for a while will remember Chris Brewer and his sharply entertaining newsletter Brewers Droop. Sadly Chris had been ill and passed away this morning. Condolences to his family and friends. (cc @Bizcommunity) System Of A Lockdown (@AmandaSevasti) February 3, 2022

Brewer often spoke at industry functions and contributed to media platforms, including Bizcommunity.com
A record two million Ukrainian tourists visited Turkey in 2021, despite COVID-19-related restrictions, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

He said this at a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Kyiv on Thursday, February 3, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"We noted that despite all the restrictions related to COVID-19, a record number of Ukrainian tourists visited Turkey [in 2021] - about two million. In turn, I am very pleased that the number of guests from Turkey visiting our country is growing every year. Staying in each other's countries, our citizens feel hospitality, comfort, security, and respect. These are strong pillars for the friendship of our peoples, which guarantees a future, fruitful successful partnership and brotherhood -- I can say this sincerely -- the brotherhood of our states," Zelensky said.

Erdogan and his wife are on an official visit to Ukraine.

op
NEW YORK  In the high-stakes fight for the GOP's future, Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., is calling on Democrats and independents to form an uneasy alliance with Republicans to fight former President Donald Trump's influence.

Kinzinger, one of Trump's fiercest Republican critics in Congress, has directed his political organization to initiate a novel campaign to convince non-Republicans to support anti-Trump Republican candidates in GOP primary contests across the country later this year. Experts suggest the practice, sometimes known as party raiding, will be hard to execute on a broad scale, but Kinzinger warned that failure to shift the GOP's embrace of Trump could undermine democracy or even a lead to "failed state."

People need to wake up to that real possibility," Kinzinger, who is not seeking reelection this fall, told The Associated Press. We have to be able to have uneasy alliances, as uneasy as they may be in this moment."

There are few modern examples of a sitting Republican member of Congress so openly asking Democrats to help take down a former president of his own party.

Kinzinger's plan underscores the extraordinary challenges Trump antagonists face as they fight to purge Trumpism from the GOP using the existing political system, which offers party leaders little control if voters line up behind extremists. At the same time, Trump allies control the Republican Party infrastructure at the state and national levels  in addition to fundraising.

Lest there be any doubt, the Republican National Committee is considering a resolution to expel Kinzinger from the GOP during its winter meeting in Utah this week.

This announcement by him only reinforces why he should be expelled from the Republican Conference, said Trump ally David Bossie, who sponsored the RNC resolution to expel Kinzinger from the party. He is actively trying to defeat his colleagues and no longer believes in our shared conservative Republican values.

Kinzinger, a 43-year-old military pilot who will not seek reelection at the end of the year, addressed his new strategy publicly for the first time in an interview with The AP on Tuesday  almost exactly one year after launching his "Country First" political organization, which aims to purge Trump from the GOP.

Through its first year, the group claims to have recruited more than 100,000 members, including 4,000 volunteers. Country First has also raised more than $2 million, including roughly $250,000 over the last 45 days. But that's very little compared to Trump, whose political organization has raised more than $100 million since he left office a year ago.

Trump also plans to use his campaign cash to shape primary elections.

He has aggressively called for primary opponents against the 10 House Republicans who joined Democrats in voting to impeach him following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Three of them, including Kinzinger, have decided not to seek reelection, and the others face primary challengers already.

We're underdogs, Kinzinger acknowledged. But without an underdog coming in and taking on a fight ... nothing's going to change.

The new focus on Republican primaries represents a strategic shift for Kinzingers network, Country First, which spent much of the last year propping up anti-Trump Republican candidates for state and federal office in general elections with varying levels of success.

Country First backed the winner in 8 of 11 state house races across Virginia and New Jersey last November. But Kinzinger's preferred candidate for a high-profile special congressional election in Texas last May finished in 9th place with just 3% of the vote.

Kinzinger's new campaign is designed to attack the root of Trumpism where it's spreading with little resistance: in the Republican nomination process. Because the vast majority of Republican-held congressional seats are not competitive due to gerrymandering and cultural trends, the congressman argues that Trump-backed extremists can only be stopped in the Republican primaries that decide which candidate appear on the general election ballot.

But because Republican primary elections are often decided by the most passionate partisans  in this case, Trump supporters  Kinzinger hopes to change the composition of the Republican primary electorate to include more moderate voters and Democrats.

His group this week posted detailed instructions on its website instructing Democrats and unaffiliated voters about how to participate in upcoming Republican primary elections. Nearly two dozen states have what's described as open" primaries that allow voters affiliated with either party to participate, but even in states that close their primary contests to non-Republicans, Kinzinger says there's time for voters to change their political affiliation  at least temporarily  to the GOP.

Country First has yet to determine which races to focus on or exactly how to reach the voters it needs to transform Republican primaries, according to co-founder Austin Weatherford, who serves as Kinzinger's chief of staff. In many districts, there are no viable alternatives to the Trump-aligned candidates.

Weatherford said a team of law students and other volunteers are currently going through the political map to determine which races would be top targets.

While most primary elections are months away, Texas's upcoming primary elections on March 1 offer an early test. Kinzinger's team is eyeing the primary in the race to replace Rep. Louie Gohmert, a vocal Trump supporter who is running for state attorney general.

History does not bode well for Kinzinger.

Caitlin Jewitt, a political science professor at Virginia Tech, noted that similar calls for strategic voting in the 2008 and 2020 presidential elections had little impact.

In those cases, it was Republicans called for their voters to interfere in Democratic primaries. In 2020, for example, Trump encouraged his supporters to vote for Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, thinking Sanders would have been an easier general election opponent.

I dont think itll work on a broad scale, Jewitt said.

Prof. Charles Franklin, director of the Marquette Law School Poll, has asked voters in recent elections about their willingness to vote in the other party's primary.

Our survey data just didnt show any significant degree of that kind of crossover voting for a strategic purpose, he said. It would be very unprecedented.

Franklin noted that Kinzinger's strategy would also likely be quite controversial."

Its perfectly legal to cross over and vote in another party's primary in many states," he said. "But to the extent we still have norms, one party interfering in the other partys primary is outside the norm.
Dylan Gallagher, a 6th year student living in rural Leitrim, is attending Carrick-on-Shannon community school and is currently preparing to sit his mocks next week.

He has written to the Leitrim Observer to express his dissatisfaction at the changes being made to this year's examination papers as announced yesterday.

"Over the last 2 years my education has been greatly disrupted. During the 2019/20 school calendar year I encountered my first disruption to education because of Covid-19. At this point I took the decision to repeat 5th year as I was already anxious about the time I had lost in school. While my previous school at the time operated remotely through Microsoft teams, there were no live classes instead prescribed self-learning.

"Covid-19 only promised to get worse, which it did. This led me to make the further decision to move to a new school and repeat 5th year there.

"Over the winter of 2020/21 school closures reoccurred, this time the school Im attending offered live classes. While this allowed us to tackle the majority of challenges, it simply wasnt a suitable form of education. Living in rural Leitrim meant there was many challenges not only for the students but also for our teachers.

"I want to acknowledge how amazing our teachers and principal have been over the last two years, theyve supported us through so much and are constantly interacting with us and providing support.

"I also want to acknowledge the fact that many of us have missed large amounts of education not only through school closures, but student and teacher have missed time through being listen as contact as well as being diagnosed with covid 19.

"Personally, Ive been employed all through the pandemic and have missed numerous days waiting on test results as well as missing 2 weeks because of being diagnosed with Covid. The long-term effects Ive since experienced have greatly affected my energy levels and my ability to concentrate in class.

"While I welcome the changes being made to the examination papers, it simply is not sufficient, it does not justify the education we have missed. The basis of the minister of education, Norma Foleys argument against a hybrid leaving certificate was the lack of materials to mark us off, the junior certificate being listed as one of her main examples.

"Might I highlight the fact that students are now expected to sit the most important exam of their life without the experience of a state examination.

"Ive studied politics and society for the last 2 years; I'm aspiring to be a journalist and a politician. Ive learned to stand up for something I believe in especially something thats going to affect my future."
WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida RINO Carlos Gimenez (FL-26) has betrayed Donald Trump and Republican Voters far too many times. The time has come for RINO Gimenez to be replaced in Congress with a true Constitutional Republican.

America First has targeted Florida RINO Carlos Gimenez (FL-26) for a Primary. Gimenez is NOT supported by America First, Donald Trump or the Republican voters in Florida's 26th Congressional District.

RINO Carlos Gimenez (FL-26) Stabbed Donald Trump And Republican Voters In The Back Socialist RINO Carlos Gimenez (FL-26) Will Be Primaried In 2022

RINO Carlos Gimenez has openly voted with Nancy Pelosi and the radical leftists in Congress on critical 'Unconstitutional Issues'. Let's not forget that RINO Gimenez openly supported and 'Voted for Hillary Clinton' in 2016.

Gimenez also defended disgraced RINO Liz Cheney after she voted in favor of the 'Sham Impeachment' against Donald Trump.

RINO Gimenez doubled down in defending Cheney after the Republican Caucus censored and removed RINO Liz Cheney from Republican Party Leadership.

RINO Gimenez also voted for the 'January 6' Socialist Democrat witch hunt against American Citizens and Republican voters. Gimenez, like RINO Liz Cheney openly votes and sides with the Socialist and Radical Democrats.

Some other notable examples of Gimenez Socialist votes include:

https://americafirstpc.org/

RINO Gimenez voted with Nancy Pelosi on H.R. 550, to allow the federal government to create a database, track unvaccinated Americans, who could be targeted, segregated, discriminated against, and forced to comply with vaccination mandates;

RINO Gimenez voted with Nancy Pelosi on Anti-Second Amendment legislation HR-8, making it more difficult for law-abiding citizens to purchase, own, carry, and use a firearm;

RINO Gimenez voted with Nancy Pelosi on H.R. 6 for 'Open Borders and Amnesty' to over 20 million criminal illegal aliens, which would permanently avoid deportation, obtain a pathway to citizenship, and full voting rights;

RINO Gimenez also voted with Nancy Pelosi to strip Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of all Congressional Committee positions.

About America First Political Committee:

Our mission is to protect the integrity of the U.S. Constitution, promote conservative political candidates and policy that puts America First.

America First Contact:

Contact: J. Stephens

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.americafirstpc.org

Phone: 202-495-1505

SOURCE America First Political Committee
ST. LOUIS  Lee Enterprises, the owner of the Post-Dispatch, saw profits slip in its first quarter of fiscal 2022 as declines in its print businesses overshadowed growth on the digital side.

Davenport, Iowa-based Lee, which owns dozens of newspapers across the country, reported profits of $12.7 million, or $2.17 per share, for the period ending Dec. 26. The company reported profits of $15.9 million, or $2.77 per share, in the same frame last year.

Lee highlighted growth in online subscriptions and advertising in its press release announcing the results, noting that overall digital revenue hit $55 million, up 17%.

But print products, which accounted for three-quarters of the company's revenue, lost 11%, or $17 million, from last year.

Moreover, Lee projected adjusted earnings and digital revenue would decrease this year over last.

In response, New York hedge fund Alden Global Capital, which is attempting a hostile takeover of Lee, blasted the company, saying Lee had failed to meet expectations since acquiring Berkshire Hathway newspapers in 2020 and needed "a new strategy and new leadership."

Lee responded: Aldens comments, which misrepresent our performance including ignoring Lees continued market-leading digital growth, are clearly another attempt to mislead investors and advance its grossly undervalued hostile offer for the company.

Lee shares fell $5.05, or 13%, to $34.06 on the day.

Thursday's report was set to be the company's last before heading into its annual stockholder meeting in March, where leadership will likely face off with Alden.
The Washington County Board of Education is set to work on a draft $316.7 million operating budget for fiscal year 2023, which begins July 1.

The school board received Superintendent Boyd Michael's recommended operating budget during its business meeting Tuesday night.

The Board of Education will deliberate on the budget before the public has the opportunity to comment on it during a March 1 hearing. The school board then is scheduled to present its draft budget to the Washington County Board of Commissioners on March 8.

The proposed draft budget includes a nearly $18.7 million, or 6.3%, increase in revenues over the current $298 million operating budget, which ends June 30.

Boyd Michael is the superintendent of Washington County Public Schools.

Teachers needed: WCPS superintendent says teacher shortages must be addressed in upcoming operating budget

Substitute teachers wanted: WCPS is hiring more substitute teachers thanks to the increase in pay, official says

WCPS is hiring: Washington County Public Schools resumes weekly job fairs

The school board is asking the commissioners for nearly $108.7 million in county revenue to help balance the budget, documents state.

That is $2.86 million, or 2.7%, more than the school board received in the current fiscal year.

The school system is expected to receive a revenue increase of $15.94 million from the current fiscal year, for a total of $207 million. The money comes from state revenue.

The school system could spend another $2.98 million in the proposed budget for increases in software costs, operational supplies, phone, electric, water, sewer, heating fuel, vehicle fuel and facility maintenance. Those figures depend on usage and prices in the coming year.

This money also includes $1 million in salary for school resource officers, documents state, a cost that concerns school board members. However, this is not new; it's what the school system is forced to pay annually.

The school resource officers in question are sheriff's deputies assigned to individual schools in Washington County.

Story continues

Several board members said they would like to see the county government pick up the cost for officers. They plan to raise this issue with commissioners when they meet on March 8.

Meanwhile, the budget includes another $256,000 for three new social workers or counselors.

"We need counselors at the elementary-school level," board President Melissa Williams said.

If the county took up the cost of the school resource officers, additional counselors could be hired, Williams said.

Board member Pieter Bickford said addressing mental health and behavioral issues among students are a priority.

Teachers have told the Washington County Board of Education during meetings that many younger students are difficult to control in the classroom.

Another proposed increase of $12.92 million would go toward a $20 daily jump in pay for substitute teachers, plus pension costs, salaries and health care.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Washington County Board of Education to begin work on 2023 budget
December is a time when the mountain states are tucked in for the winter under a cold blanket of snow. Or they should be. Denton Montana and Superior Colorado were destroyed by wildfires in December when snow usually makes wildfire impossible. The year-round fire season in California, summer smoke in Montana, the western drought, melting glaciers, rising sea level; its obvious that our climate is in serious crisis. The U.N. warns Climate change is an existential threat to humanity.

The Netflix movie "Dont Look Up" (co-written by former Helena resident David Sirota) is a parable for the crisis. A comet, symbolizing climate change, is on a collision course with Earth and will wipe out human life when it hits, leaving a ghost planet. Spoiler Alert: In the movie, the profit motive prevents us from saving ourselves.

In real life, Government is swinging into action to stop climate change! Or it should be. Instead, both parties skillfully avoid action. Republicans refuse to admit theres a problem. Democrats utter flowery words about protecting the climate and then work to destroy it. Senator Daines claims that preventing climate change will undermine the free market. Senator Tester pushes for Keystone XL.

The corporate world is stepping up! On behalf of its shareholders. Northwestern Energy is determined to build a gas-fired power plant in Laurel. BNSF is buying MRL to make transporting coal cheaper. Missoula speculators are building a bitcoin mine in North Dakota that will require the electricity of a typical coal-fired power plant to run. Their CEOs aren't ignorant or evil. They are simply following market imperatives. Anyone in their positions would do the same. That's the problem.

Senator Daines claims that stopping coal production is a gut punch to the over 35,000 oil, gas, and coal jobs in Montana. (We are for the jobs the comet will provide!) The coal and oil companies are holding their workers hostage. They will destroy communities like Colstrip if we try to address climate change. Nothing will protect their workers and communities from the brutality of the Market. Is the problem that we shouldnt address climate change? Or is the problem that capitalism leaves us no viable way to do so?

The market will impel other companies to scoop up these valuable workers! Well, no. A 750-megawatt wind farm is being built by NextEra Energy in Eastern Montana. Steve Gross of the International Union of Operating Engineers in Montana says they are only hiring out-of-state workers. Its not surprising that a wind company is just as rapacious as a coal company. This is what capitalism looks like. NextEra is not coming to the workers rescue. The Testers and Daineses will fight harder to continue mining, resuscitate Keystone XL, maintain fracking. And they may succeed for far too long. Simply saying renewables bring jobs doesnt mean that energy workers who lose jobs will get the new ones. Lets disabuse ourselves of that fantasy. The more disempowered and desperate workers are, the more power corporations have.

Gross complains Clean energy developers... need to do right by local workers and communities. No, they dont need to. Their only need is to maximize profits. We the workers and communities are the ones who need that. In the market, our needs dont count.

Montana is littered with ghost towns that were left to die by companies of yesteryear. Why would we expect business to behave differently now? In a truly democratic economy, our communities and our planet are more important than profit. Earth isnt a ghost planet. Yet. But the capitalists' comet is coming. Its time to Look Up. Together.
A hot potato: Robot dogs could find new use as part of the United States border force. The quadrupedal machines are being trialed as sentries in land across the southern border, which can be an inhospitable area for humans due to its harsh landscape, extreme temperatures, and other threats.

The United States Department of Homeland Security released details of the Science and Technology Directorate-led Automated Ground Surveillance Vehicles (AGSV) initiate, also known as robot dogs.

While the machines resemble Boston Dynamics' famous Spot robot, these mechanical dogs are the work of Philadelphia-based rival Ghost Robotics. If that name sounds familiar, it could be from one of its robot dogs shown off at a trade show last year that featured an attached assault rifle (below).

The AGSVs used by the DHS won't be carrying weapons in some Black Mirror-style dystopian nightmare---for now, anyway. Instead, they're being tested for patrol and inspection purposes. They're able to be controlled remotely or work autonomously, sending their video feed back to operators. The robots can also be equipped with different payloads such as night and thermal vision cameras and various types of sensors and radios.

The dogs have been patrolling autonomously during the trials by moving around pre-set GPS waypoints. They've also taken part in simulated inspections outside, inside, and under train cars at railyards, and have been tested walking up hills, down ravines, and over rocks, all while carrying 20-pounds worth of payload.

"Technology such as semi-autonomous drones (air, ground, and even water) are used effectively as force multipliers elsewhere---and robot dogs are no different," said S&T program manager Brenda Long.

Despite the lengthy explanation post extolling the virtues of using machines instead of humans for dangerous border patrol work, any government authority that puts robots to work this way can expect to come in for some criticism. Just ask the NYPD, which ultimately tore up its $94,000 contract for Digidog, a heavily modified version of Boston Dynamics' Spot, following backlash from activists, city officials, and some members of the public.
Hillary Clinton has been snapped wearing a mask outside in New York City despite current restrictions only stipulating that masks must be worn indoors.

The Democratic candidate for the 2016 presidential election was spotted with her daughter Chelsea, also wearing a mask, as the pair waltzed down a New York street yesterday.

Covid regulations in New York stipulate that masks must be worn in public places indoors that do not require proof of vaccination for entry, though there is no order in place forcing NYC residents to wear masks outside.

A Suffolk University/USA TODAY poll released on Tuesday suggests that Hillary, 74, would still beat current President Joe Biden if she were to run against him in Florida's primary by 46 per cent to 43 per cent, underscoring the President's complete lack of support in the state notorious for its anti-Covid regulation stance.

In December, Biden was pictured wearing a mask while alone at a beach just hours after his top medical adviser Dr Anthony Fauci admitted there was an 'extremely low' risk of contracting Covid indoors after getting fully vaccinated, saying that he only continued to wear a mask to stop 'giving mixed signals.'

Meanwhile, top Republicans are now claiming that Fauci 'cannot be trusted' in his role as chief medical adviser to the Biden administration after a new report by Johns Hopkins university suggested lockdowns only reduced mortality rates by 0.2 per cent.

Hillary Clinton is spotted out with her daughter Chelsea (pictured in white mask) in New York City. The former First Lady wore a face mask, red jacket, matching gloves, black trousers, and matching shoes

Covid regulations in New York stipulate that masks must be worn in public places indoors that are not covered by a vaccine mandate

A poll released earlier this week by Suffolk University/USA TODAY suggests that Clinton, 74, would still beat current President Joe Biden if she were to run against him in Florida's primary by 46 per cent to 43 per cent, underscoring the President's complete lack of support in the state notorious for its anti-Covid regulation stance

In December, Biden was pictured wearing a mask while alone at a beach just hours after his top medical adviser Dr Anthony Fauci admitted there was an 'extremely low' risk of contracting Covid indoors after getting fully vaccinated, saying that he only continued to wear a mask to stop 'giving mixed signals'

According to an order given by New York City governor Kathy Hochul and Health Commissioner Mary T. Bassett, everyone - including children over the age of two - must wear a mask or face covering while in any indoor public place, regardless of vaccination status.

The order defines an indoor public place as ' any indoor space that is not a private residence', forcing everyone including young children not medically exempt to don face protection until at least February 10, 2022, pending further review.

However, there is no requirement for NYC residents to wear face coverings while outside in public - though it is recommended that a face covering be worn in a crowded area.

Guidance from the medical team at MIT says that even with more transmissible variants such as Delta and Omicron, the risk of Covid transmission in outdoor spaces is 'negligible'.

Hillary's decision to wear a mask in public regardless of the absence of a mandate aligns with President Biden's recent insistence on wearing a face covering despite being on a deserted beach, dozens of feet away from any members of his security team.

The White House insists Biden will run again in 2024, even though that would mean he would be 86 at the end of a second term with concerns over his seemingly declining mental state already widespread.

Some polls have put Biden's approval rating at less than 40 percent, and this week's Suffolk University/USA TODAY poll suggests he would lose a primary to Hillary in Florida.

Biden fares better in a contest against two key Republicans, but would still lose according to the poll.

Former Republican President Donald Trump would beat him by three points, while the current Governor of Florida Ron DeSantis would beat him by eight points, judging by the survey of 500 likely voters, with a margin of error of +/- 4.4 points.

Guidance from the medical team at MIT says that even with more transmissible variants such as Delta and Omicron, the risk of Covid transmission in outdoor spaces is 'negligible' (Hillary pictured mask-less just over a week ago in California)

Meanwhile, senior members of the Republican party are saying a controversial new report finding that coronavirus lockdowns had 'little to no effects' on pandemic death tolls proves that Dr. Anthony Fauci and his claim that pandemic restrictions saved 'millions' are not to be trusted.

'Bad judgment and poor leadership from our nation's health agencies have caused most Americans to live with an unhealthy fear of Covid-19,' Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, told DailyMail.com upon review of the new research from Johns Hopkins university.

There is no doubt, we need a new approach to Covid as we must learn to live with it.

'That new approach should not include Dr. Fauci  American's don't trust him and he has lost his reputation. We must stop the obsession with Covid, stop living in fear and move forward.'

Economists who carried out a meta-analysis found draconian restrictions imposed in spring 2020  including stay-at-home orders, compulsory masks and social distancing  only reduced Covid mortality by 0.2 per cent.

They warned that lockdowns caused 'enormous economic and social costs' and concluded they were 'ill-founded and should be rejected as a pandemic policy instrument' going forward.

'The fact that we shut down when we did, and the rest of the world did, has saved hundreds of millions of infections and millions of lives,' Fauci said in June 2020. But a new report from Johns Hopkins university suggests that all the coronavirus lockdowns only reduced mortality rates by 0.2 per cent

Republicans are saying a controversial new report finding that coronavirus lockdowns had 'little to no effects' on pandemic death tolls proves that Dr. Anthony Fauci and his claim that pandemic restrictions saved 'millions' are not to be trusted

The review, led by a Johns Hopkins University professor, argued that border closures had virtually zero effect on Covid mortality, reducing deaths by just 0.2 per cent.

However, closing nonessential shops was found to be the most effective intervention, leading to a 10.6 per cent drop in virus fatalities.

'I hope we'll learn from this the study,' Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., said on Fox News Wednesday. 'There was no correlation between any of the mandates the government put in place and any change in the incidence of the disease.'

He recalled when Fauci said that lockdowns had saved millions of lives.

'The fact that we shut down when we did, and the rest of the world did, has saved hundreds of millions of infections and millions of lives,' Fauci said in June 2020.

Paul called for Fauci's removal, which he has done repeatedly.

'It's become so politicized that I don't think Dr. Fauci will ever apologize or admit to the country, but we need to have people like him removed from office because they've been so wrong on so much policy.'
TOKYO  More than a year ago Sebastian Bressa finished his paperwork to become a language teacher in Tokyo and made plans to quit his job in Sydney. His life has been in limbo ever since.

Japan has kept its door closed to most foreigners during the pandemic, and the 26-year-old Australian is one of hundreds of thousands denied entry to study, work or see their families.

Japan has become one of the worlds most difficult countries to enter and some are comparing it to the locked country, or sakoku, policy of xenophobic warlords who ruled Japan in the 17th to 19th centuries. The current border rules allow in only Japanese nationals and permanent foreign residents, and have raised the ire of foreign students and scholars who say the measures are unfair, unscientific and force talented visitors to go to other countries. Critics say the rules are also hurting Japans international profile and national interest.

About half a million foreigners  including academics, researchers and others with highly skilled jobs and 150,000 foreign students  have been affected, various statistics show.

I think the most difficult thing for me has been this state of living in standby, Bressa said. He has been unable to commit himself to any long-term plans with his family, friends or even at work. I cant plan that far ahead in the future, just not knowing where I end up the next month or two.

Frustrated students have gathered near Japanese diplomatic compounds around the world to protest.

In Spains second-largest city of Barcelona, Laura Vieta stood outside of the Japanese Consulate last week, holding up a sign saying Stop Japans Travel Ban.

I gave up my job because I thought I was going to Japan in September, said Vieta, 25, who wants to study Japanese at a private school for six months or longer. As you can see, Im still here.

Japan plans to keep the border measures in place through the end of February as it copes with a record surge of cases in Tokyo and other major cities. Makoto Shimoaraiso, a Cabinet official working on Japans COVID-19 response, said the situation is painful but he asked for patience, noting much higher infection levels overseas.

Japan recently decided to let nearly 400 students enter, but many others including those on foreign government-sponsored scholarships still cannot get in.

A letter to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, signed by hundreds of academics and Japan experts and submitted last month in a petition drive, called for a relaxation of the border controls to enable educators, students and scholars to pursue their studies and work in Japan. It said many already have given up Japan studies, opting to focus elsewhere, such as South Korea.

They become the bridges between Japan and other societies. They are future policymakers, business leaders, and teachers. They are the foundation of the U.S.-Japan alliance and other international relationships that support Japans core national interests, the letter said. The closure is harming Japans national interests and international relationships.

Japan is not the only country imposing strict border controls, but the policy is drawing criticism from within Kishidas governing party and from the business community.

Taro Kono, an outspoken lawmaker who has studied at Georgetown University and served as foreign and defense minister, urged that the government reopen the country so that students and others waiting for an entry can have a future outlook and make plans.

Masakazu Tokura, head of Japans powerful business organization Keidanren, recently said the border measures were unrealistic and are disrupting business. He called for a quick end to the locked country situation.

On Thursday, The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, the European Business Council in Japan and the International Bankers Association of Japan, in a joint statement, said the entry ban has imposed real and increasing economic and human costs. They urged the government to quickly adopt a science-based entry policy to accept vaccinated business travelers, students, teachers and separated family members.

However, the border controls have wide public support. Many Japanese tend to think troubles such as the pandemic come from outside their island nation.

Tightening border controls quickly after omicron outbreaks began overseas may have been unavoidable, Nihon University crisis management professor Mitsuru Fukuda said, but the decision to exclude only foreigners appears aimed at rallying public support. With careful preventive measures, Japan could allow foreign visitors just as many other countries are doing, he said.

Crisis management is for the protection of peoples daily lives and happiness, and people should not have to compromise their freedom and human rights in exchange for their lives, Fukuda said.

Japans coronavirus cases plunged as delta variant infections subsided in the fall, and Kishida has said closing the border to most foreign travelers in late November helped delay the latest surge in infections. He contends that overreacting is better than doing too little, too late.

He was likely taking a lesson from his predecessor, Yoshihide Suga, who stepped aside after only a year in office partly due to his administrations perceived weak handling of the pandemic.

Japan has just begun giving booster shots, but only 3.5% of the population have received them, and the medical system has been inadequately prepared for the latest huge wave of cases, leaving many sick with COVID-19 to isolate at home.

The border closures did not keep omicron out of U.S. military bases, where Japan has no jurisdiction, including troops that fly directly into the country without observing Japanese quarantine requirements. They were not tested for weeks, until Tokyo asked them to.

Clusters of cases among U.S. troops rapidly spread into neighboring communities including those in Okinawa, home to the majority of the 50,000 American troops in Japan, beginning in late December. Infections at U.S. bases exceeded 6,000 last month.

On Wednesday, Japan reported nearly 95,000 new confirmed cases, a record, and Tokyos cases exceeded 20,000 for the first time. Some pandemic restrictions are now in effect in much of Japan, including Tokyo and other big cities like Osaka and Kyoto, for the first time since September.

Phillip Lipscy, a political science professor at Toronto University in Canada who is part of the petition drive, said he was denied entry despite his Japanese roots and his dedication to the study of Japan.

I grew up in Japan. I am a native speaker of the language, my mother is Japanese and she lives in Tokyo. But under the current policy I cannot enter Japan because of the color of my passport, Lipscy told an online meeting.

With the outlook uncertain, many people are changing their studies or careers, he said.

These are fateful decisions with long term consequences, he said. The border closure is depriving Japan of a generation of admirer, friends and allies.

___

This story corrects the name of Japanese university to Nihon University.

___

Associated Press journalists Chisato Tanaka in Tokyo, Hernan Munoz in Barcelona, Spain, and Aritz Parra in Madrid contributed to this report.
Former President Donald Trump speaks with Epoch TV's Kash Patel at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla., on Jan. 31, 2022. (The Epoch Times)

EXCLUSIVE: Trump on Durham Probe: I Hear Theres a Lot Coming

Former President Donald Trump has heard that theres a lot coming from the wide-ranging investigation led by Special Counsel John Durham, who is probing the origins of the FBIs investigation into Trumps 2016 presidential campaign.

I hear theres a lot coming, Trump told former top aide Kash Patel on The Epoch Times Kashs Corner. The interview will premiere at 8 p.m. Eastern on Feb. 7 on EpochTV.com.

Were gonna see what happens. But what hes doing is one of the most important jobs being done right now in America.

Attorney General William Barr assigned Durham on May 13, 2019, to investigate the origins of the FBIs investigation of the Trump campaign, codenamed Crossfire Hurricane. In October 2020, with the presidential election approaching, Barr designated Durham as a special counsel to protect the criminal investigation in case of a change of guard at the White House in 2021.

Durham secured the first guilty plea in August 2020, prior to his appointment as a special counsel. Former FBI assistant general counsel Kevin Clinesmith admitted to forging an email used to prepare an application to surveil former Trump campaign foreign policy adviser Carter Page. Clinesmith was sentenced to probation for a single charge of making false statements related to the forgery.

In September and November last year, Durham brought indictments against Russian national Igor Danchenko, the primary source of the infamous Steele dossier, and against Michael Sussmann, the attorney for the Clinton campaign in 2016.

Trump has previously expressed frustration with the pace of Durhams investigation. In March last year, he issued a statement saying, Wheres Durham? Is he a living, breathing human being? Will there ever be a Durham report?

The former president told Epoch TV he still wishes the investigation would move faster.

I wish it were faster, Trump said. It is really the crime of the century and changed everything, including the election.

Some of the earliest evidence of misconduct in the Crossfire Hurricane investigation emerged in a report prepared by the Republican-led House Intelligence Committee in early 2018.

After, an internal inquiry by the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General (OIG) yielded two significant reports. The first detailed a pattern of intense political bias against Trump by the key officials involved in the Crossfire Hurricane probe. The second found 17 major errors in the FBIs Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court applications to spy on Carter Page. The responsibility for the mistakes ran to the top of the chain of command at the FBI, according to the inspector general, Michael Horowitz.

Horowitz ultimately concluded that, despite the errors, the FBI opened the investigation of the Trump campaign on lawful grounds. Durham publicly disagreed with that finding, issuing a formal statement in December 2019 explaining that his investigation reached beyond the Department of Justice and its components.

Recent court filings by Durham in the Sussmann case show that Horowitz withheld vital evidence from the special counsel in the Sussmann prosecution and the criminal leak investigation of former FBI General Counsel James Baker. According to the filings, Horowitzs office failed to disclose that it was in possession of two of Bakers cellphones.

The full exclusive interview will premiere on EpochTV.com at 8 p.m. Eastern on Feb. 7.
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-N.C.) talks to supporters during her election night party in Mount Pleasant, S.C., on Nov. 3, 2020. (Mic Smith/AP Photo)

Lawmaker Introduces Amendment to Stop Sending US-Born Pandas to China

U.S.-born panda cubs should belong to and stay at their birthplace, said Rep. Nancy Mace (R-N.C.), as she introduced an amendment that would prevent them from being sent to China.

Its high time the United States said no to the Chinese Communist Party and its international propaganda campaign, the congresswoman said in a Feb. 1 statement.

China has sent giant pandas as diplomatic gifts to foreign countries since 1941 and switched in the 1980s to payable loans concerning the dwindling numbers of the bears. Beijing later offered long-term loans of the adorable ambassadors, generally in pairs, at a current fee of $500,000 each, according to Mace. Yet the recipient country must agree to return the pandas, including their offspringbefore they turn four for a breeding programor their remains if they die.

Whether born in the United States or in another country, pandas are considered the property of the Chinese government and must eventually return to China, said the South Carolina lawmaker.

Pandas born in the United States deserve to stay in our country, Mace said.

Besides the rental fee, the panda loan agreements between the United States and China require the former to bear the cost of caring for each giant panda in its possession, including costly feed, maintenance, and breeding.

Twenty-three giant panda cubs make their debut at Chinas Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding on Sept. 29, 2016. (VCG via Getty Images)

For decades, China has tried to soften the image of the Chinese Communist government by loaning pandas to zoos around the world, Mace said, before outlining Beijings low human rights record to back her stance.

The Chinese Communist Party is also an oppressive and odious regime, responsible for disasters ranging from the massacre at Tiananmen Square, to the COVID-19 fiasco from the Wuhan lab, and the ongoing genocide against the Uyghurs.

Mace wants to include the amendment in the America COMPETES Act, a law to bolster the competitiveness of the United States over rivals such as China through innovation investment. She suggested seeking coordination with allies globally to establish collaborative giant panda breeding programs, according to the amendment.

China sees the once-endangered giant panda, native to south-central China, as its unique national animal. It has also designed the mascot of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics from the black-and-white beara giant panda wearing a spacesuit of icenamed Bing Dwen Dwen.

As of 2019, China had loaned giant pandas to roughly 22 zoos in 18 countries, including the National Zoo, Zoo Atlanta, and the Memphis Zoo in the United States.

The 17-month-old cub of Smithsonians National Zoo, named Xiao Qi Ji or little miracle in Chinese, will be handed over to China, with its parents, when it is three years old in December 2023.

Giant panda Mei Xiang enjoys her afternoon nap at the National Zoo in Washington on August 23, 2007. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters)

The cubs 23-year-old mother Mei Xiang is the oldest giant panda in the country, whose previous three surviving cubs were shipped to China.
AJ Odudu cut a stylish figure as she hosted a photocall for the BAFTAs nominations event in London on Thursday.

The presenter and former Strictly star, 33, showed off her toned physique in a plunging sleeveless black blazer from Kaushik Velendra as she posed up a storm.

She was joined by comedian Tom Allen at the photocall, before hitting the stage to help announce this year's nominations.

Looking good: Host AJ Odudu cut a stylish figure as she hosted a photocall for the BAFTAs nominations event in London on Thursday

AJ looked effortlessly chic in the jacket that had statement sleeves and was teamed with matching flared trousers that showed off her slim legs.

The star completed her look with a pair of studded shiny green strappy heels and silver dangly earrings.

AJ wore her dark tresses up in a very sleek high pony tail and opted for a very glamorous makeup look, complete with a slick of silver eyeshadow.

Style: The presenter and former Strictly star, 33, showed off her toned physique in a plunging sleeveless black blazer a she posed up a storm

Fun: She was joined by comedian Tom Allen at the photocall, before hitting the stage to help announce this year's nominations

The nominations for the 2022 British Academy Film Awards have been announced, with Dune, The Power Of The Dog and Belfast leading the nominations with 11, eight and six respectively.

Denis Villeneuve's star-studded sci-fi epic landed a slew of technical nods, along with a nod for the top prize for Best Film, while Jane Campion's dark Western and Kenneth Branagh's Irish biopic follows close behind with eight and six respectively.

While the Academy once again recognised three women in the Director's shortlist, this year's nominations fell short on BAFTA's vow to improve diversity, with only seven people of colour nominated in contrast to last year's 12.

Pose: AJ looked effortlessly chic in the jacket that had statement sleeves and was teamed with matching flared trousers that showed off her slim legs

Details: The star completed her look with a pair of studded shiny green strappy heels and silver dangly earrings

Hosts: AJ and Tom announced the nominations for the 2022 EE British Academy Film Awards on stage

It looks set to be a competitive evening in the acting categories, with Lady Gaga, Caitriona Balfe and Benedict Cumberbatch battling it out for the leading honours, alongside newcomers Kodi Smit-McPhee, Ariana DeBose and Adeel Akhtar.

While many of Dune's nominations came in the technical categories, it's also landed a nod for Best Film, alongside Belfast, Don't Look Up, Licorice Pizza and The Power of the Dog.

The critically-acclaimed film, the first of two films based on Frank Herbert's 1965 novel, had been tipped for awards glory, with Hans Zimmer once again recognised in the Original Score category, along with nods for Casting, Cinematography, Editing, Production Design, Costume Design, Makeup and Hair, Sound and Special Visual Effects.

Glowing: AJ wore her dark tresses up in a very sleek high pony tail for the event

Pretty: She opted for a very glamorous makeup look, complete with a slick of silver eyeshadow

After its success at the Golden Globes, the dark Western The Power of the Dog landed eight nominations, including Best Film, Director and Adapted Screenplay for Jane Campion, Leading Actor for Benedict Cumberbatch, Original Score, Cinematography, and two nominations in the Supporting Actor category for Kodi Smit-McPhee and Jesse Plemons.

Following close behind is Belfast, which landed six nods despite an unexpected snub for Kenneth in the Director category.

The drama, which stars Jamie Dornan, Judi Dench and newcomer Jude Hill and is based on Kenneths' childhood growing up in Northern Ireland at the height of The Troubles, was also nominated for Outstanding British Film, Original Screenplay, Supporting Actress for Caitriona, Supporting Actor for Ciaran Hinds and Editing.

Exciting: The nominations for the 2022 British Academy Film Awards have been announced, with Dune, The Power Of The Dog and Belfast leading the nods

Dapper: Tom looked suave in a three-piece suit and red and pink tie as he posed with AJ at the photo call

Confidence is key: AJ worked all her best angles and made sure that all eyes were on her

Following the surprise BAFTA success of 2012's Skyfall, the British Academy has also recognised Daniel Craig's swan song in the James Bond franchise, with five nominations.

The action-packed epic, which was delayed multiple times due to the Covid pandemic, landed nods for Outstanding British Film, Special Visual Effects, Editing, Cinematography and Sound.

In the Outstanding British Film category, Belfast and No Time To Die will fight it out for the honour alongside After Love, Ali & Ava, Boiling Point, Cyrano, Everybody's Talking About Jamie, House of Gucci, Last Night in Soho, and Passing.

Group: BAFTA Deputy Chair Sara Putt and BAFTA Chair Krishnendu Majumdar posed with AJ and Tom

The Leading Actress prize will go to either Lady Gaga (House of Gucci), Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza), Emilia Jones (Coda), Renate Reinsve (The Worst Person in the World), Joanna Scanlan (After Love), or Tessa Thompson (Passing)

Adeel Akhtar (Ali & Ava), Mahershala Ali (Swan Song), Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog), Leonardo DiCaprio (Don't Look Up), Stephen Graham (Boiling Point) and Will Smith (King Richard) are shortlisted for the Leading Actor award.

Nominated for Best Supporting Actress are Caitriona Balfe (Belfast), Jessie Buckley (The Lost Daughter), Ariana Debose (West Side Story), Ann Dowd (Mass), Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard) and Ruth Negga (Passing).

Impressive: While many of Dune's nominations came in the technical categories, it's also landed a nod for Best Film, alongside Belfast, Don't Look Up, Licorice Pizza and The Power of the Dog

Radiant: AJ showed off her perfect complexion with a dewy and natural makeup look

Mike Faist (West Side Story), Ciaran Hinds (Belfast), Troy Kotsur (Coda), Woody Norman (C'mon C'mon), Jesse Plemons (The Power Of The Dog), Kodi Smit-Mcphee (The Power Of The Dog) have landed nods for Supporting Actor.

All of the performers in the Supporting Actor category are first-time nominees, with a total of 19 out of the 24 nominees up acting accolades earning their place on the shortlist for the first time.

Disney's critically-lauded musical Encanto leads the nominations for Animated Film, competing opposite Flee, Luca and The Mitchells Vs The Machines.

Having fun: AJ and Tom had lots of chemistry together and larked about at the photocall
Decision to revoke ad-hoc appointments in Uttarakhand Assembly taken after expert committee recommendations: Speaker Ritu Khanduri.

Uttarakhand Assembly Speaker revokes 228 ad-hoc appointments in Vidhan Sabha over violation of norms.

New telecom bill is likely to be in place in next 6-10 months: Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The officials of Rapid Response Squad (RRS), a tactical team of the Lagos Police Command, have arrested five suspected Awawa cult group members in Agege and its environs.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the five suspected cultists were arrested at different spots at Mulero, Orile Agege, Abule Egba, and Agege, in an all-night raid on spots suspected to be the hideouts of the gang.

Olayinka Egbeyemi, the RRS Commander in Lagos State, said the gang was arrested using the intelligence gathered as a result of civil disturbances unleashed in Mulero and part of Iyana Ipaja on Tuesday night.

Early this morning we arrested five suspected Awawa Boys in an all-night raid in spots believed to be the hideouts of the cult gang in Mulero, Orile Agege, Abule Egba, and Agege.

The figure excludes three suspected members who were handed over to the divisional police units in those areas on Wednesday.

READ ALSO: Two killed as cultists unleash attacks on police team in Kwara

Using the intelligence gathered as a result of civil disturbances unleashed in Mulero and part of Iyana Ipaja on Tuesday night.

Working on the directives of new Commissioner of Police, CP Abiodun Alabi, deployed a convoy patrol to all the affected communities before the night raid on the suspected hideouts of the miscreants, he said.

According to him, the suspects will be charged to court as soon as possible as directed by the Commissioner of Police.

He added that part of the items recovered from one of the suspects were wraps of substances believed to be Indian hemp and ice (crystal meth).

(NAN)
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ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi set off a bomb that blew himself up during a raid by U.S. special forces

President Joe Biden confirmed the leader of ISIS is dead in what he described as a cowardly move to blow up himself and his family instead of facing justice for his terrorists acts.

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi set off a bomb that killed himself as well as his wife and two children during a raid by U.S. commandos on a house in northwest Syria on Thursday.

'United States military forces successfully removed a major terrorist threat to the world,' Biden said in remarks at the White House on Thursday.

Thirteen were reported killed, including six children and four women during the mission, which involved 24 Special Operations commandos backed by attack jets, Reaper drones and helicopter gunships.

'As a final act of desperate cowardness, [al-Qurayshi] with no regard to the lives of his own family or others in the building, he chose to blow himself up,' Biden said, adding the ISIS leader blew up 'that third floor rather than face justice for the crimes he has committed, taking several members of his family with him.'

'This horrible terrorist leader is no more,' he added.

After al-Qurayshi was named the head of ISIS in 2019, the United States put a bounty of up to $10 million on his head.

Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and national security aides monitored a live-feed of the operation from the White House Situation Room, according to a photo released by the administration.

'This operation is testament to America's reach and capability to take out terrorist threats, no matter where they try to hide anywhere in the world. I'm determined to protect the American people from terrorist threats, and I'll take decisive action to protect this country,' Biden said in his short remarks where he took no questions.

'We remain vigilant. We remain prepared. Last night's operation took a major terrorist leader off the battlefield and sent a strong message to terrorists around the world: We will come after you and find you,' the president added.

In the raid, U.S. special forces landed in helicopters and assaulted the house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, near the border with Turkey, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said in local reports.

The raid targeted a large house in Atmeh in the Idlib region of Syria where the ISIS leader was hiding. The three-story house was left with its top floor shattered in the wake of al-Qurayshi's suicide bomb.

It was a gruesome scene, according to local reports, with blood splattered on the white bricks that constructed the home and body parts scattered around the area.

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, also known as Abdullah Qardash or Hajji Abdullah, became the leader of the ISIS terrorist organization after former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi also blew himself up in a similar raid by U.S. forces in 2019 in the nearby town of Barisha.

American helicopters carrying 24 commandoes arrived just after 1am. When they left two hours later ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi was dead

A general view shows on February 3, 2022 the scene following an overnight raid by US special operations forces against a suspected high-ranking jihadist in Atmeh, in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, which left at least 13 people dead

President Joe Biden confirmed the leader of ISIS is dead after he blew himself and his family up during a raid by U.S. commandos on a house in northwest Syria on Thursday

A Syrian man takes a picture of a blood soaked kitchen at the scene of a US anti-terror raid in Atmeh, Idlib

Children's clothing is pictured littered among the debris, showing the remnants of families and civilian life destroyed by the fighting and helicopter strikes

The raid by the U.S. commandos targeted a suspected jihadist leader in a house in Syria's northern town of Atmeh. The operation, which residents say lasted about two hours, jolted the village near the Turkish border - an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syria's civil war. The target was killed in Atmeh, located mere miles from the town of Barisha where former ISIS leader al-Baghdadi was killed in 2019

This combination of pictures created on February 3, 2022, from images released by the US Department of Defense shows the compound housing ISIS leader Al-Qurayshi

Red tape is extended around the house and objects are set on fire, in which the leader of Islamic State (IS) group Amir Mohammed Said Abd al-Rahman al-Mawla died

The operation is thought to be the largest U.S.-led raid in the Idlib region since the 2019 assault which killed al-Baghdadi.

It was conducted in a similar style to the raid which resulted in the death of Osama Bin Laden in 2011.

U.S. officials offered grim details of Thursday's raid, noting the ISIS leader used children as a human shield to protect himself and accusing him of trying to cause a mass casualty situation with his suicide bomb, which was so powerful 'that it blew bodies outside of the house and into the surrounding areas.'

The top story of the house was left in remains with blood splattered on the wreckage. A wrecked bedroom had a child's wooden crib and a stuffed rabbit doll. On one damaged wall, a blue plastic baby swing was still hanging. Religious books, including a biography of Islam's Prophet Mohammad, were in the house, according to the Associated Press.

The Pentagon said al-Qurayshi's identity was confirmed through DNA and fingerprint analysis. His body was left at the site.

Senior administration officials noted al-Qurayshi deliberately lived in a home with families, accusing him of using women and children as protection and opting to reside in a crowded neighborhood in an attempt to increase the civilian casualty rate should he be targeted.

'Knowing that this terrorist had chosen to surround himself with families, including children, we made a choice to pursue a Special Forces raid at a much greater risk than our to our own people rather than targeting him with an airstrike. We made this choice to minimize civilian casualties,' Biden said in his remarks.

The ISIS leader installed a family on the first floor of the three-story home where he lived  a family that had no idea who he was or his role as the leader of the terrorist organization. He never left the house.

He 'seemed to purposely live in a residential building with families in the first floor, that we believe had nothing to do with ISIS and did not know who's living on the third floor. He never left the house. He commanded by couriers who came and went and used these innocent people, as his shield,' a senior administration official told reporters on a briefing call on Thursday morning.

Those people  including a man, a woman and several children - were safely removed by U.S. special forces, the official said.

The official also noted the decision to use boots on the ground  instead of a drone  was made because of the residential set up that al-Qurayshi established and the fact he was located in a crowded neighborhood, calling it a 'complex target.'

In a briefing call with reporters on the operation, officials said it was their belief that al-Qurayshi meant to destroy the entire three-story residence with the bomb that ended his life.

They noted they had planned for the possibility of a suicide bomb but believed it would not destroy the entire home.

'Unfortunately, ISIS once again revealed its barbarity and, in a final act of cowardice and disregard for human life, [al-Qurayshi] detonated blast, a significant blast, killing himself and several others, including his wife and children,' the official said.

'In this case, the blast was so large on the third floor that it blew bodies outside of the house and into the surrounding areas,' the official added.

The official said that military engineers, using modelling techniques, were able to determine the structure wouldn't collapse if al-Qurayshi set off a suicide bomb.

'One of our main concerns was that he would kill himself and the structure would collapse killing everyone else in the building.' But, the official added they had 'high confidence' any bomb 'would not collapse the building and kill the other people in the building.'

'I doubt he knew that,' the official said of al-Qurayshi. 'It was probably his intent to kill everybody in that building.'

An aerial view of wreckages around the site after an operation carried out by US forces targeting a high ranking jihadist in northern Syria last night

People inspect the destroyed house where the ISIS leader was staying

A Syrian man walks on bloodstained floors, February 3, 2022, at the scene following an overnight raid by US special operations forces against suspected jihadists in Syria

President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and members of the President's national security team observe the counterterrorism operation responsible for removing from the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi in this photo from the White House

Several pictured that have emerged from the scene show considerable damage to the outside of the house, with blood spattering the walls inside

A Syrian youngster stares at the aftermath of a US anti-terror strike in northern Syria

The aftermath of the raid saw considerable damage to the house, with extensive bloodstains suggesting a number of casualties among fighters and civilians

An aerial view of wreckages around the site on the outskirts of Atmeh in Idlib, Syria, following last night's operation

The wreckage of the military helicopter that US forces had to destroy due to technical malfunction during an operation carried out by US forces, is seen near Afrin's Jindires town

The helicopter was used in the raid on the ISIS leader

The operation to take out al-Qurayshi had been planned for months, senior administration officials said. Biden gave the final go ahead on Tuesday morning in the Oval Office in a meeting with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Mark Milley.

'The President was first briefed on the operation in depth over a month ago by the operational commanders,' the official said, after U.S. intelligence confirmed al-Qurayshi was at the site.

The two-hour raid 'ran really according to clockwork,' one of the senior administration officials said, adding it all went as planned.

The helicopter assault was carried out by about two dozen American commandos, backed by helicopter gunships, armed Reaper drones and attack jets, according to The New York Times.

Little is known about al-Qurayshi. He had kept an extremely low profile since he took over leadership of ISIS. He had not appeared in public and rarely released any recordings.

U.S. officials described him as 'the driving force behind the genocide of the Yazidi religious minority in northwestern Iraq in 2014 and the enslavement of thousands of young Yazidi girls, using rape as a weapon of war.'

Biden echoed that description in his remarks.

'You all remember the gut-wrenching stories of the mass slaughters that wiped out entire villages. Thousands of women and young girls sold into slavery. Rape as a weapon of war. Thanks to our troops, this horrible terrorist leader is no more,' the president said.

But American officials expect al-Qurayshi's death will result in a significant disruption to the terrorist group.

'We anticipated this is going to lead to disruption within ISIS. He's really one of the few remaining -shall we call them legacy leaders,' the official said.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Thursday said al-Qurayshi's death 'delivers a catastrophic blow to ISIS, and shows that the United States will take out terrorist threats no matter where  they try to hide in the world.'

Who controls Idlib and why is it a terrorist stronghold? Idlib is a city in northwestern Syria, and is the capital of the region of the Idlib Governorate. The area is the last enclave in Syria to actively oppose the government of Bashar al-Assad, is home to more than three million people and is dominated by jihadists. The region is mostly administered by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group led by former members of al-Qaeda. HTS split off from al-Qaeda in 2016. But the region is still home to several al-Qaeda operatives and affiliates, as well as several ISIS members. A series of refugee camps made up of people displaced by the Syrian civil war make Idlib the perfect territory for jihadists to hide from U.S. anti-terror operations. 'Al-Qaeda uses Syria as a safe haven to rebuild, coordinate with external affiliates, and plan external operations,' said Central Command spokesman Army Major John Rigsbee in October. Advertisement

The U.S. officials emphasized that the casualties during the raid were the fault of ISIS.

'All casualties at the site were due to the acts of ISIS terrorists,' the official said.

They did not give a number of those killed but noted no U.S. forces died in the operation.

They also emphasized a number of children were safely removed from the building.

They described the setup of the three-story home: an unrelated family on the first floor with al-Qurayshi living on the third with his wife and children. Between the two, living on the second floor, was al-Qurayshi's lieutenant, whom they did not name.

That lieutenant  and his wife  engaged U.S. forces during the raid and were killed. Four children were safely removed from the second floor, officials said.

But one child on the second floor may have been killed, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said Thursday.

'He barricaded itself in a room in the second floor and engaged U.S. forces - as did his wife. After that, the threats of them was eliminated,' the senior administration official said.

American helicopters brought U.S. special forces into position after midnight, surrounding a house in Atmeh, a town close to the border with Turkey in rebel-held Idlib Province, The New York Times reported, citing eyewitnesses, social media reports and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a conflict monitor based in Britain.

A long, tense standoff ensued, with loudspeakers blaring warnings in Arabic for everyone in the house to surrender, neighbors said. After about two hours, the house's occupants had not emerged and a major battle erupted, with heavy machine gun fire.

During the operation, one of the American helicopters suffered a mechanical problem, was forced to land and was later destroyed by American attack aircraft.

After about three hours, the American commandos and their remaining helicopters flew off, witnesses told the Times.

The senior administration officials confirmed the U.S. military helicopter was destroyed and they said that was an intentional act because the chopper suffered from a 'mechanical issue.' They denied reports it had crash landed or was disabled by ISIS forces.

'There was a situation in which one of our helicopters had a mechanical issue and so it was properly disposed at some distance from the site. It had nothing to do with any kind of hostile action. This is a mechanical issue as best we can tell at this early stage,' the senior administration official said.

The official confirmed that some of the terrorists engaged with one of the helicopters and U.S. forces killed them, saying at least two terrorists died.

But, they argued, that had nothing to do with the helicopter being destroyed.

'Ultimately the helicopter was able to extract itself from the immediate target area, and, under control, was able to land in another location where the decision was made to disable it and destroy it,' the official said.

Last night's operation is thought to be the largest U.S.-led raid in the area since the 2019 assault which killed Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi (L) and was conducted in a similar style to the raid which resulted in the death of Osama Bin Laden in 2011

Children's clothing is pictured littered among the debris following the helicopter strikes

The raid left at least 13 people dead, including civilians

The target of the raid was a large house, with some parts of the structure completely reduced to rubble while other sections were left with considerable damage

The operation carried out against an individual suspected to be affiliated with the Daesh/ISIS terrorist group

Syrian civil defense search on February 3, 2022 the scene following an overnight raid by US special operations forces against suspected jihadists in Atmeh, in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib

A view of damage after a helicopter fired on a house killing 13 people including children and women during the operation carried out by US-led coalition in Idlib, Syria on February 3, 2022

The aftermath of the battle shows considerable external and internal damage at the house in northern Syria

ISIS leader known as The Professor who blew himself and his kids up rather than face justice: Ex-Saddam officer al-Qurayshi who was imprisoned alongside Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, eliminated his rivals and was once a US INFORMANT ISIS' now-dead leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, otherwise known as 'The Professor,' had a complicated history, where he once served as a U.S. informant and more recently had a $10 million bounty on his head from Washington. Al-Qurayshi, also known as Abdullah Qardash, was nicknamed The Professor or The Destroyer because of his reputation as a brutal legislator - is known as a cruel but popular figure among the ISIS rank-and-file. He replaced Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi after al-Baghdadi blew himself up with a suicide vest during a U.S. raid in 2019. Al-Qurayshi is believed to be a former officer in Saddam Hussein's military who forged an alliance with al-Baghdadi in prison before becoming his enforcer and chief policymaker. Al-Qurayshi, also known as Abdullah Qardash, was nicknamed The Professor or The Destroyer because of his reputation as a brutal legislator Al-Qurayshi was once known to U.S. officials as a cooperative informant, who divulged details to American forces on the Islamic State in Iraq. He was captured in 2007 or 2008, and spent months in an American detention camp in Iraq. Defense Department documents described as an at-times 'cooperative' informant who under interrogation revealed details on the group that he would go on to lead. According to a statement by Amaq, ISIS's press agency, Baghdadi appointed Al-Qurayshi to run the group's day-to-day operations in August 2019, making him the heir-apparent after his former boss killed himself during the raid by US forces in Syria. In 2020, the U.S. doubled the bounty on the new ISIS leader's head to $10 million. But al-Qurayshi maintained a low profile -he did not appear in public, and rarely released any audio recordings. His influence and day-to-day involvement in the groups operations is not known, and he has no known successor. Al-Qurayshi - also known as Hajji Abdullah al-Afari - was born in Tal Afar, a Sunni-majority town in Iraq, in 1976 - before joining the military while Saddam Hussein ruled the country. Following the invasion of Iraq by the US in 2003 and President Bush's move to disband the country's military, he found himself locked in jail accused of having links to al-Qaeda. Al-Qurayshi was known to U.S. officials as a cooperative informant, who divulged details to American forces on the Islamic State in Iraq In 2020, the U.S. doubled the bounty on the new ISIS leader's head to $10 million, as they released this photo of him Languishing in a cell at Camp Bucca, al-Qurayshi formed a close bond with Baghdadi, who was then fomenting the extremist religious code that would provide the ideological grounding for the death cult that became ISIS. After his release al-Qurashi served as a religious commissar and a general sharia judge for al-Qaeda, according to researchers at the S. Rajartnam School of International Studies in Singapore. Al-Qurayshi was tasked with establishing an institute for training judges and clergymen in the campus of al-Imam al-Adham College in Mosul, likely in part where 'The Professor' nickname came from. When ISIS emerged as a splinter group from Al-Qaeda's Syrian branch he changed allegiances, where he became Baghdadi's enforcer. Working close to Baghdadi,he was responsible for eliminating anyone who disagreed with his style of leadership, which is where he earned his other nickname, 'The Destroyer'. From there he became the group's chief policymaker and legislator, known for enforcing its strict brand of Islam and Sharia Law punishments. Caliphate leader: Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi detonated his own suicide vest during the targeted raid on his lair in Syria's Idlib province and killed three of his children in the blast. He is shown in a still from a video released in April, having not been seen since he spoke at the Grand Mosque in Mosul in 2014 He is thought to have personally welcomed Baghdadi into Mosul in 2014 after ISIS took the city - announcing their presence as the world's foremost terror group. It was from the minaret of the Great Mosque of al-Nuri in Mosul that Baghdadi gave a speech announcing the formation of ISIS's so-called Caliphate. In capturing Mosul, ISIS had killed thousands of Yazidi residents, and enslaved Yazidi women under the guise of enforcing Sharia law. There were disagreements among ISIS leadership about enslaving the Yazidi women, but it was al-Qurayshi led the organization's more extremist leaders in insisting on it, according to News Lines Magazine. President Joe Biden said al-Qurayshi was directly responsible for the prison strike, as well as the mass killings of the Yazidi people in Iraq in 2014. 'He was responsible for the recent brutal attack on a prison in northeast Syria ... He was the driving force behind the genocide of the Yazidi people,' Biden said Thursday. 'We all remember the gut-wrenching stories, mass slaughters that wiped out entire villages, thousands of women and young girls sold into slavery, rape used as a weapon of war.' On August 7, 2019 Amaq announced that al-Qurayshi had taken over day-to-day running of the terror group, while Baghdadi concentrated on drumming up religious fervour in the group's aims. The selection of al-Qurayshi drummed up debate within ISIS, even reaching its members in prison, over whether he was of Turkmen or Arab origin. The 'caliph' of ISIS must be a descendant of the prophet Mohammed, therefore an Arab. People inspect the destroyed house where the ISIS leader was staying An aerial view of wreckages around the site after an operation carried out by US forces targeting a high ranking jihadist in northern Syria last night A Syrian man takes a picture of a blood soaked kitchen at the scene of a US anti-terror raid in Atmeh, Idlib Several pictured that have emerged from the scene show considerable damage to the outside of the house, with blood spattering the walls inside Al-Qurayshi was keen to prove his Arab origin. Until 2020, U.S. and Iraqi officials believed the head of ISIS was a Turkman, which they weaponized to undermine his claim to leadership. Late reports confirmed his Arab descent. Al-Qurayshi spent his last days in Idlib province, an area held by insurgent groups hostile to IS. Al-Qurayshi set off a bomb that killed himself as well as members of this family, the White House said. Thirteen were killed, including six children and four women during the mission, which involved 24 Special Operations commandos backed by attack jets, Reaper drones and helicopter gunships. The raid targeted a large house in Atmeh in the Idlib region of Syria where the ISIS leader was hiding. The two-story house was left with its top floor shattered and blood spattered inside. A journalist on assignment for The Associated Press and several residents noted that they saw body parts scattered near the site. Al-Arabiya TV said three of the four women who were killed in the raid might have been the wives of the extremist leader. It is common for members of extremists group to be married to up to four women, which is allowed under Muslim tradition. Advertisement

Local residents and activists said several civilians were killed in the battle, with the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and first responders from Syrian Civil Defense reporting 13 deaths including several women and children.

The Idlib area of Syria is dominated by the Al-Qaida group and its affiliates including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and is home to several top al-Qaida operatives.

But other militants, including those from ISIS, have also found refuge in the region, which is broadly held by Turkey-backed fighters.

The anti-terror raid comes amid a series of efforts by the Islamic State to reassert itself, with the group having recently carried out some of its biggest attacks since it was defeated in 2019.

ISIS has launched a series of operations in the region as of late - the most recent being a 10-day assault in late January to seize a prison in northeastern Syria.

A U.S.-backed Kurdish-led force said more than 120 of their fighters and prison workers died in the effort to thwart the ISIS plot amid bitter fighting which began on January 20 and lasted for over a week.

The prison houses at least 3,000 Islamic State group detainees, and the ISIS operation to free them suggests the group is attempting to re-arm itself and add to its ranks.

Syrians gather on February 3, 2022 at the scene following an overnight raid by US special forces against suspected jihadists in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib which left at least nine people dead, including three civilians

Roofs and walls collapsed, trapping people under the rubble. At least 13 people are thought to have died in the blasts

Garage doors at the compound are pictured sporting huge holes following the assault

Syrian civil defense workers evacuate a body over a destroyed staircase following the overnight raid by US special forces

Syrian civil defense workers evacuate a body following the overnight raid by US special forces

A Syrian man checks the damage in a house on February 3, 2022 at the scene of an overnight raid by US special operations

Residents and activists described witnessing a large ground assault, with U.S. forces using loudspeakers urging women and children to leave the area (abandoned room pictured with mattresses and clothes littering the floor)

The U.S.-led coalition carried out airstrikes and deployed American personnel in Bradley Fighting Vehicles to the prison area to help the Kurdish forces defeat ISIS fighters.

The attempted prison break was the biggest military operation by the extremist group since ISIS was defeated and its remaining members scattered in 2019.

At a news conference on Monday, an Syrian Democratic Forces senior official Nowruz Ahmad said the prison assault was part of a broader plot that ISIS had been preparing for a long time.

Other separate ISIS assaults were carried out in other neighborhoods in Hassakeh, Shaddada and areas of Deir el-Zour in eastern Syria and on the al-Hol camp in the south, which houses thousands of families of ISIS members.
The folk-punk band behind Moldova's Eurovision entry may have bitten off more than it can choo-choo.

Zdob si Zdub's (ZsZ) song about a train route across Moldova's shared border with Romania is the third time it's represented its impoverished post-Soviet homeland in Europe's gaudiest musical event.

But the band is already facing a backlash after it appeared to hit the brakes on some of the lyrics highlighting Moldova and Romania's shared history and culture.

Based on our experience, if we want to participate in Eurovision, we adapt the songs."

A possible union between Moldova and its bigger, EU-member neighbor has been a topic of persistent and often fiery debate since Moldova gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

It is animated in part by whether to call their common language "Moldovan" or "Romanian," as Moldova's Constitutional Court ruled nearly a decade ago.

Moreover, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) that has organized the Eurovision Song Contest for decades expressly demands that songs remain "nonpolitical," and as recently as last year kicked countries out for crossing that line.

State broadcaster TRM on January 29 chose The Train, ZsZ's whimsical collaboration with folk band Fratii Advahov, to represent Moldova after a planned national competition was scrapped due to the worsening COVID-19 crisis.

Ties That Bind

The song is a celebration of a Chisinau-to-Bucharest rail route known as "Prietenia," or Friendship.

But alert fans noticed that in the Eurovision selection process, references to an "old country [and] new country" that "separately, together" is "like two -- it's one" in the original version had been replaced with blander lyrics about a train that "doesn't look big anymore/because it has no borders."

let's be honest, it didn't win through the genius of the melody line, the monumental production, and the unparalleled virtuosity, but through the message, interpretive mood, and story."The changes sparked accusations of censorship, a touchy topic given most Moldovans' experiences under Soviet rule.

Let's be honest, it didn't win through the genius of the melody line, the monumental production, and the unparalleled virtuosity, but through the message, interpretive mood, and story."

"When you have such a subtle text, which is replaced by one that doesn't create so much empathy and shifts the emphases, it's natural for people to start discussing and assuming all sorts of things," journalist Victoria Cusnir, one of five expert judges in the selection process, told RFE/RL's Moldovan Service. "But what really matters is what actually happened."

ZsZ is led by founding members Roman Iagupov and Mihai Gincu.

Speaking this week to RFE/RL, the song's authors rejected speculation that there was "censorship" or any other outside pressure on the band to amend the lyrics ahead of the Eurovision bid.

Poet and lyricist Vsevolod Ciornei said he had been asked by Iagupov to give him multiple variations on the lyrics, seemingly in part to respect organizers' desire for "nonpolitical" songs.

"There was no ill will on the part of Roman Iagupov," Ciornei told RFE/RL. "It was a kind of caution, perhaps somewhat exaggerated, in the face of the rigors imposed by Eurovision regulations. He told me that there are rules...that forbid political allusions and, just in case, to give him more neutral options."

'Improvised' Fallback

Iagupov has some Eurovision experience to guide him.

ZsZ led Moldova to its first ever Eurovision final in 2005, finishing sixth with the high-energy tune Grandma Beats The Drum, which featured kindly looking, gray-haired women waving flags from all over the world.

ZsZ returned in 2011 to finish 12th in the finals with a rollicking, circus-like performance of a song called So Lucky.

But listeners expressed disappointment at the substitution in The Train in January.

"With a text like this, patchy, the song will lose all its charm," journalist and former lawmaker Angela Arama said of the change, "because, let's be honest, it didn't win through the genius of the melody line, the monumental production, and the unparalleled virtuosity, but through the message, interpretive mood, and story."

On February 1, ZsZ producer Igor Danga told RFE/RL that the substitution had been an experiment.

"The act wasn't [originally] made for Eurovision," Danga said, adding that they only decided last month to enter The Train in the national contest.

He said that "based on our experience, if we want to participate in Eurovision, we adapt the songs."

"It was an improvisation by Roman -- he tried different lyrics, but that wasn't a final version," he added. "But we've seen from the reactions that people are for the original text, so it's clear that we'll use this text. Everything will be alright."

Staying 'Nonpolitical'

Overt politics is a so-called third rail of the Eurovision competition.

Belarus was disqualified by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) from last year's Eurovision after failing -- twice -- to avoid it. Within days of its selection by the Belarusian state broadcaster for Alyaksandr Lukashenka's embattled regime, the EBU said Ya Nauchu Tebya (I'll Teach You) "puts the nonpolitical nature of the contest in question."

Then, after an extension to submit a new entry, the EBU excluded Belarus from the competition because the innocuously named submission Pesnya Pro Zaytsa (Song About Hares) was "also in breach of the rules of the competition that ensure the Contest is not instrumentalized or brought into disrepute."

Belarus's embarrassment came six months into a brutal crackdown against anti-government protests that featured tens of thousands of arrests, attacks on independent and foreign media, and other abuses.

Historical South Caucasus foes Armenia and Azerbaijan have seen their participation affected on multiple occasions, with Yerevan suspected of including messages about the recognition of the Armenian genocide in 2015 and occupied Azerbaijani territory in 2016.

2016's eventual winner, Ukraine's Jamala, was allowed to compete despite accusations by Russia that references to the deportation of Crimean Tatars in her song, 1944, were a barely veiled reminder of Moscow's occupation of Crimea in 2014.

But Moldova's Eurovision hopeful this year might face obstacles other than politics.

William Lee Adams, presenter of the youth-news program BBC Minute and founder of the popular Eurovision blog Wiwibloggs, called The Train performance "very folk-wedding."

In a scathing YouTube reaction video posted on January 31, he called it "a mess."

"Let me tell you," Adams added, "It ain't going to the final."

Written by Andy Heil based on reporting by RFE/RL Moldova Service correspondent Liliana Barbarosie in Chisinau
LONDON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- For many small nations, citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes have been crucial in funding projects that make reaching sustainable development possible. With climate change accelerating natural disasters, small countries use CBI revenue to create sustainable economic growth to build back stronger.

The benefits of CBI for economic citizens are well documented. From opening doors to higher education and attaining a safer future for one's children, in addition to tax planning and wider business flexibility, the popularity of these programmes among high-net-worth individuals (HNWI) is recognised proof of its value.

A number of countries, especially in the Caribbean, offer opportunities to obtain citizenship or residency in exchange for a substantial financial contribution to the domestic economy. There is no denying that CBI programmes offer a much-needed injection of foreign direct investment for these small nations, often in a way that can make a significant developmental difference.

Here are four key areas of impact CBI programmes have on Caribbean nations:

Economic growth with less reliance on international aid

In small states, the inflows to the private sector can have a sizable impact on economic activity. In St Kitts and Nevis and Dominica, the inflows have improved fiscal outcomes, facilitated debt repayment, and spurred economic growth.

Research by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has brought to light the significant macroeconomic impact of CBI programmes on many small states. In the Caribbean region, where five small states offer economic citizenship, the industry jumped from zero per cent of regional GDP in 2007 to a substantial 5.1 per cent in 2015.

The figures are even more impressive at a country level, with the industry contributing more than 30 per cent of GDP in St Kitts and Nevis in 2020. According to the CBI Unit Head Les Khan, the Programme's revenue was a "main driver" during lockdown when tourism was at an all-time low. In Dominica, the IMF said that "strong growth" in the construction sector was "financed with record-high CBI revenue of 30 per cent of GDP" in 2021. Meanwhile, in Antigua and Barbuda, CBI accounted for 20 per cent of the nation's GDP in 2017. This shows that this influx of money can make a major difference in the government's performance for smaller countries that face major natural catastrophes like annual hurricanes.

Greater tourism inflows

In Dominica, which is considered one of the most beautiful places in the world and is known as the Nature Isle of the Caribbean, tourism continues to generate a substantial portion of the island's income from target markets in Europe, the US and Canada. To further boost the sector, the CBI Programme offers an incentive for direct investment in the country through pre-approved real estate investment options. This option causes an increase in hotel room supply, resulting in greater tourism inflows and spending benefits for small businesses.

The growth of CBI funded resorts and hotels is also in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, a feat taken to heart by small nations like Dominica. All the CBI built hotels on the island channel a sustainability ethos and are pre-approved by the government. These retreats, backed by trusted brands like the Hilton and Marriot with local boutique resorts like the Secret Bay and Jungle Bay, offer visitors a getaway that's intertwined with nature, with locally sourced foods, climate-resilient construction, and opportunities to winddown close to nature.

The increase in tourism demand in Dominica has also led to greater interest in airlift to the country. In late 2021, American Airlines announced the expansion of its daily service to the island and talks of increasing connectivity with Air Canada are also on the table. The new flights "will be a major factor in establishing better relationships with US tour operators and travel agents, which will result in more business for the hoteliers and service providers in Dominica," said Colin Piper, CEO and Director of Tourism at the Discover Dominica Authority.

The link between tourism and the real estate investment option of Dominica's CBI Programme, in particular, provide an alternative for applicants wanting a return on investment.

Employment creation

Dominica's CBI Programme has helped fund a series of development projects on the island, creating jobs. One of the critical areas attracting local and foreign workers is Dominica's construction sector. With a host of internationally branded hotels set to debut on the island, alongside the ongoing construction of over 5,000 hurricane-resistant homes, Dominica was compelled to diversify its workforce and even source specialist labour from neighbouring islands. This goes alongside hoteliers training the local workforce to learn new skills, especially those needed for the smooth operation of the new resorts.

To support this economic boom in the long term, Dominica prioritises its local workforce and invests in diversifying and professionalising certain career fields. This requires close collaboration with the CBI real estate developers.

In a five-part documentary from UK-based FT Specialist PWM magazine, the Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Francine Baron explains: "Part of the agreement with the developer is that they must have a certain percentage of local labour involved in the project. We want to make sure these projects benefit the economy as much as possible."

The CBI Programme made the construction of most of the new hotels and resorts in Dominica possible. As a small developing island, raising capital to finance such luxurious hotels would have otherwise been more difficult in such a short space of time. CBI is key in sourcing funds for the new hotels while ensuring that they are built under the close supervision of the government, with sustainability in mind.

Sustainable development through construction

CBI has helped build countless much-needed projects in small nations like Dominica. These ventures have focused heavily on constructing housing units that can stand the tests of harsh weather so residents can feel safe and not worry about building new homes every storm season.

These projects contribute to the education sector, healthcare initiatives like state-of-the-art hospitals and health centres, hurricane-resistant homes and environmentally friendly resorts and villas. CBI proves time and time again to support the island's commitment to give its citizens a climate-resilient future.

A CBI programme is indeed a legitimate response by governments to the need to raise revenue through direct foreign investment. These programmes constitute a creative and valid strategy to change the economic landscape. It is now a fact that many countries have CBI Programmes in one form or the other with different levels of qualification.

For these reasons, CS Global Partners, the world's leading government advisory, works to harbour the sustainability and legitimacy of CBI programmes. The firm caters to the increasing trend for investors to obtain second passports to diversify their investment and citizenship options while reducing real or perceived risk for small nations to maintain their economic freedom.

Contact:

[email protected]

www.csglobalpartners.com

SOURCE CS Global Partners
Ashley Furniture Industries, the worlds largest manufacturer of home furnishings, has recently donated more than 350 mattresses to victims of the Kentucky tornadoes.

This $155,695 donation announcement comes in partnership with Higdon Furniture Company, Inc. (Higdon), a licensee of Ashley affiliate Ashley HomeStores, Ltd. in Paducah and Murray, KY.

On December 10, 2021, a violent, long-tracked tornado moved across Western Kentucky and surrounding states, producing severe to catastrophic damage in numerous towns. The tornado, which may be one of the most devastating in the U.S., cut a 250-mile path of destruction, taking nearly 100 lives.

The news and images of the Kentucky tornadoes has been devastating to see. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with the victims, especially those who lost loved ones to these storms, said Todd Wanek, president and CEO of Ashley. Ashley is committed to supporting the affected communities with this donation. We hope this alleviates some of the burden felt by those who are in a difficult time as they rebuild their homes and communities.

Ashley and Higdon partnered with the Paducah-McCracken County United Way to help distribute the donated mattresses and other essential items to people and families affected by the tornado. The furniture manufacturer and retailer utilized their delivery teams and equipment to facilitate the distribution of the donated items to the local communities.

Betsy Burkeen, CEO of United Way of Paducah-McCracken County, helped to coordinate the delivery of this donation.

Its companies like Ashley and Higdon Furniture that remind us all what it means to Live United, said Burkeen. Every person in our community should have a safe place to lay their head at night and it takes us all to ensure that happens. We are so thankful for this generous donation to the families of those recently impacted by this devastation.

In addition to the mattress donation, Ashleys manufacturing and distribution facilities in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and North Carolina held a donation drive for the affected communities.

The teams collected over 400 pounds of hygiene and food products that were sent on an Ashley trailer along with the mattresses.

Ashley has donated over $5 million to relief efforts for hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods across the U.S. and Puerto Rico over the past five years.

The company is a long-standing supporter of local emergency services, including police, fire and rescue departments.

In addition to assisting victims of natural disasters, Ashley has provided thousands of hours of in-kind services and transported medical supplies, essential goods, food and water and more to areas in need during times of distress.
Q: I want to renew my drivers license online. What is the website for the drivers license online renewal? I havent received the card and my license expires soon.

D.N.

Answer: To get to the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles online drivers license renewal page, go to www.ncdot.gov/dmv and click on Renew License or ID.

When the new page pops up, click on Get Started and the system will walk you through the process

There is an additional $3 fee from PayIt, the vendor that runs the online service. That money goes directly to the PayIt.

Q: Im packing things for a relative who is downsizing. Is it possible to get old newspapers that I can use to pack?

H.P.

Answer: The Winston-Salem Journal doesnt have old newspapers to sell, but we do sell end rolls of clean newsprint paper for $5 a roll.

The person who handles this is Brenda Steele. She can be contacted by calling 336-727-7382 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

The rolls are available at the Journals production plant, 2051 E. Fifth St., Winston-Salem.

We do not take cash or credit cards at this location. We accept personal checks made out to The Winston-Salem Journal.

Black History Month

Lillian McDaniel Bonner was the first Black woman and among the first women hired by the Winston-Salem Police Department in 1952.

Their assignment was to check parking meters and write tickets. In 1966, the department started a Community Services Unit, one of the first of its kind in the country, and Bonner was assigned to the unit.

Bonner was born in Lee County, S.C., and moved to Winston-Salem as child to live with an older brother after her father died. She was a graduate of Atkins High School and attended Winston-Salem Teachers College, now Winston-Salem State University.

From her first office on Clark Avenue and later in various places in the city, she helped people with a variety of problems. In a 1966 interview, Bonner recounted some of the problems she and her unit saw in just the first three months they were in existence.

One was a man who had developed a heart condition and could no longer support his family. Bonner helped his wife find work and a less expensive place to live.

She also found an elderly, homeless woman a place to live.

Bonner retired from the police department in September 1982 after 30 years of service.

She told a reporter in a story about her retirement that when she was writing tickets a man came up to her as she was writing a ticket for his illegally parked car. He became verbally abusive when she continued to write the ticket.

I didnt say anything. I kept doing what I was doing and when I got through with the ticket, I said Sir, do you feel better? Now, you have a nice day

And I just hung the ticket on his windshield and kept walking.

Years later, he said to me that he was just hoping I would have just said something so he could have actually punched me. I dont much think he really wanted to do that, though.

Bonner said the man later told her that his life had changed after that day.

To me, that meant a lot, Bonner said.

Bonner summed up her career at the police department by saying, You can imagine that during a period of 30 years, youve helped some. Youve hurt some, too  because Ive had to do my duty as a police officer, although Ive always tried to believe in teaching first, and penalizing later.

Bonner died Jan. 12, 2000, at the age of 76.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : A man and a 17-year-old girl were apprehended by the police in connection with the sexual assault on a woman in Kasturba Nagar that had rocked the national capital on January 26.

The police said that the accused was identified as Rajeev. The identity of the girl was not disclosed as she is a juvenile.

DCP of Shahdara, R. Sathiyasundaram told IANS that two more women were arrested on the complaint of the victim's sister.

"Versha (36), and Shalu (38), have been arrested on the complaint of sister of the victim," the official said.

The victim in the case was brutally beaten up, gangraped, her hair was chopped off, clothed were torn and then she was paraded in the area. She was put a garland of shoes around her neck. This happened when the entire nation was celebrating Republic Day.

Her face was also blackened by the accused involving women and teen age girls.

IANS accessed all the videos of the incident in which the woman could be seen being attacked by the accused.

Sathiyasundaram said that a total 18 persons have been held in thi incident so far.

A case of sexual assault and abuse was registered with the concerned Police station.

All possible help and counseling are being provided to the victim. We are taking the matter seriously. A team of elite officials are looking into it.

The police is also taking legal opinion in the matter. Seeing the gravity of the matter the police said it is not leaving any stone unturned.

Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chief Swati Maliwal had also issued a notice to the Delhi Police in connection with the case. She had met the victim and assured all possible help.

Swati Maliwal had said that it was the most unfortunate incident that was reported from the capital on the occasion of Republic Day.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had also condemned the incident on Twitter.
Hyderabad, Feb 3 : The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) on Thursday condemned the attack on its president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi in Uttar Pradesh.

Party leader and Telangana MLA Mumtaz Ahmed Khan said the party will not be cowed down by such incidents.

Khan said such attacks were not new for the party as it made many sacrifices during the last 65 years.

The AIMIM leader said the party's opponents, especially the communal forces, were afraid of its growing popularity. He said the public meetings being addressed by Owaisi in Uttar Pradesh were drawing lakhs of people and the party's opponents were unable to digest this.

Owaisi escaped unhurt when two men opened fire at his car when he was returning to Delhi after campaigning in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut.

The MP's SUV came under attack at a toll plaza in Hapur in western Uttar Pradesh. He left for Delhi in another vehicle.

Police arrested one of the assailants while the search was for his accomplice.

Owaisi has demanded the Election Commission to order an independent inquiry into the attack. He also sought an inquiry by the governments in UP and at the Centre.

The MP also plans to raise the issue with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.

Owaisi has been campaigning aggressively in UP for the last few weeks. His party has already announced that it will contest 100 seats in the state.
An ambulance carrying a brain tumour patient suffered a flat tyre near CID Junction on Palace Road in Bengaluru which left the family and staff members in a state of panic. However, all thanks to a traffic police constable, all of them heaved a sigh of relief as the cop became their saviour.

According to a report by Times of India, while the family was trying to arrange for alternative ambulances to shift the patient, the constable helped the ambulance driver change the tyre.

Traffic constable helps save a life in Bengaluru, assists in changing a flat tyre of an ambulance that broke down. The beautiful gesture by Kasappa Kallooru helped patient reach Hospital in time. The family tried for an hr to get a new ambulance but in vain.@blrcitytraffic pic.twitter.com/s2DdGmTbOd  Deepak Bopanna (@dpkBopanna) February 3, 2022

The patient was sent to hospital just in time before another ambulance arrived. The conduct of Kasappa Kallur, a 2018-batch constable attached with Cubbon Park traffic police, drew praise from the public and his colleagues/senior officers.

Kallur said the patient suffering from brain tumour was shifting to another hospital.



TOI

I noticed the ambulance tyre was punctured and rushed to the spot. The driver had managed to pull over the ambulance to the side. The patients wife and daughter were in the ambulance. They were tense as doctors had suggested they shift the patient to another hospital as soon as possible to save his life. We made calls to arrange for another ambulance but were told that it might take at least 30 minutes to reach the spot. Then, we decided to change the tyre as quickly as possible. I and the driver changed the tyre and sent the patient to the hospital in the same ambulance, said Kallur.

He also said that another ambulance arrived a few minutes after the patient left. BR Ravikanthe Gowda, joint commissioner of police (traffic), and other senior cops appreciated Kallur for his humanitarian act. Gowda gave an appreciation letter to the constable at his office.

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THE restoration of a severely dilapidated and historic building in Offaly is in development limbo, with no sign of any work to start in the future.

There had been great hope for the future of Birr Workhouse back in 2018 when an exciting project was announced for it. However, since then very little work has occurred.

Local community group Birr 20:20 told the Midland Tribune that they have not heard from the company behind the project for many months.

The company is Castle Rook and the Tribune tried to contact it on a number of occasions in recent weeks for a statement, but with no success.

Many in the Birr area fear that the former Workhouse will become ever more severely dilapidated in the coming months and years.

Since the inception of Birr 20:20 in 2015, the restoration of the Workhouse has always been in the group's sights.

In September 2018 a Birr 20:20 meeting was told that the building had been purchased by Castlerook, a Canadian/Chinese company with its Irish base in Louth, and restoration was now underway, focusing initially on the roof, which is riddled with holes. The building was also badly damaged by fire in 2017.

Detailed plans were shown during the September 2018 meeting to great enthusiasm. Access, the meeting was told, had been secured to the left of the building, leading past a proposed museum.

Castle Rook said it was proposing to transform the Workhouse into a centre providing care for those with dementia.

The proposed centre would provide a roofed pavilion for seating; a landscaped sculpture park; a glass walled dining area to retain connection with the public cafe, community day care centre, creche and playground.

The public and residential areas, while having a degree of interaction, would be secured with a biometric fence, allowing security for residents, with a degree of freedom of movement. Thirty residents would be housed in the main building, eventually rising to 70.

Mylo robots would also be in use. The Mylo robot connects to the resident's wristband and can monitor heartbeat and bloodpressure, as well as being programmable as a reminder not only for medication times, but also for me time at the treatment centre.

The September 2018 meeting was also told that capital was in place for the purchase and initial works.
NASA has confirmed the details of the four civilian astronauts that will spend a week living and carrying out experiments on the International Space Station in April.

Axiom Space, the private space company developing its own module for the ISS, will operate the trip, sending the four to the station on a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule.

NASA astronaut and Axiom Space VP Michael Lopez-Alegria will act as mission commander, alongside Larry Connor as pilot, with Mark Pathy, and Eytan Stibbe working as mission specialists during the day-long trip to the station.

Once onboard the crew, who each spent $55 million for the trip, will spend eight days carrying out a range of experiments, commercial activities and running educational sessions for children on the Earth below.

It is an international crew, with Lopez-Alegria born in Spain but raised in California, Connor from the US, Pathy from Canada and Stibbe born in Israel.

They will launch on Wednesday, March 30, from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on a flight-proven SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

Left to Right: Axiom Space Ax-1 Pilot Larry Connor, Commander Michael Lopez-Alegria, Mission Specialist Mark Pathy, Mission Specialist Eytan Stibbe

NASA has confirmed the details of the four civilian astronauts that will spend a week living and carrying out experiments on the International Space Station in April

The mission has been named AX-1, and the crew have been training at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, and other NASA facilities, since August 2021.

This training has allowed them to become familiar with the ISS systems, scientific facilities on board and emergency procedures.

As well as training with NASA, the four have been working with the European Space Agency (ESA) and SpaceX at its Hawthorne, California facility.

The SpaceX training has allowed them to become familiar with the operation of the Crew Dragon capsule, that will take them to the station and back.

Axiom Space, the private space company developing its own module for the ISS, will operate the trip, sending the four to the station on a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule

NASA started working with the Axiom mission operations team on simulations in December, to get a feel for how the first all civilian crew on the ISS would operate.

This work allowed ground control for NASA and Axiom to familiarize themselves 'with the dynamic phases of the private astronauts' flight to and from the space station.'

The U.S. space agency confirmed that they'd continue these joint simulations through the next few months, in preparation for launch on March 30.

'This represents another significant milestone in our efforts to create a low-Earth orbit economy,' said Phil McAlister, director of commercial spaceflight at NASA.

'I wish these Axiom crew members safe travels, and I hope they find their time in space productive and enjoyable.'

Once onboard the crew, who each spent $55 million for the trip, will spend eight days carrying out a range of experiments, commercial activities and running educational sessions for children on the Earth below. They will travel to the ISS in a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule

EXAMPLES OF AX-1 MISSION RESEARCH Larry Connor, Ax-1 mission pilot, entrepreneur, and non-profit activist investor, has a number of projects in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic. Connors experiments on behalf of Mayo Clinic would provide data on space travels impact on senescent cells and heart health. Connor is expected to be in charge of maintaining senescent cells  cells that have stopped dividing  at the ISS. These cells are linked to multiple age-related diseases, and understanding them can help protect astronauts on long-haul trips to Mars. Mark Pathy, Ax-1 mission specialist, is working on behalf of The Montreal Childrens Hospital, Canadian Research Universities and The Royal Canadian Geographical Society. He is working with six Canadian universities, as well as two startups on 'proof of concept' ideas. This includes the worlds first in-space demonstration of two-way holoportation  a mixed reality app for special lenses that receives two-way 3D projections as a hologram to communicate between users remotely. In addition to human research, Pathy plans to lead Earth observation activities which will contribute to further analysis of the impact of climate change, urbanization, and other factors on the ecology and human habitation of North America. Eytan Stibbe, Ax-1 mission specialist, social impact investor, and Israeli philanthropist, is working on behalf of the Ramon Foundation. His mission is named "Rakia," after the dome (atmosphere) created by God on the second day after the firmament, which protects life on Earth. During his mission, he will facilitate scientific experiments and will conduct educational and artistic activities to connect the younger generation in Israel and around the globe on the values of peace, innovation, and social responsibility. For the first time, an astronaut will represent Israelis on the International Space Station in Hebrew. Advertisement

It isn't clear exactly what the objectives of the four AX-1 crew will be, as the final proposals won't be approved until closer to flight, NASA confirmed.

Axiom previously revealed a microgravity research portfolio the Ax-1 crew intends to undertake in orbit, in partnership with a variety of organizations on Earth.

'The goal for the Ax-1 crew is to set a standard for all future private astronaut missions in terms of our preparation and professionalism,' Lopez-Alegria said.

'As the commander, I am proud of the work these crew members have put in to be ready to conduct meaningful work on the International Space Station and glad to see them meet the standards required of all astronauts flying to station since Expedition 1.

'Ax-1 is focused on a huge amount of science and outreach activities, and we look forward now to finalizing that flight program.'

Expedition 1 was the first launch of astronauts, from Russia and the US to the space station on November 2, 2000. The ISS has been continuously occupied since then.

That first crew, of three included NASA commander William Shepherd, alongside cosmonauts Yuri Gidzenko and Sergei K. Krikalev.

Axiom has also revealed that the astronauts will be taking technology built by Israeli company, Aleph Farms, to the station.

This technology involves turning cells taken from a cow into raw meat by growing the cells and turning them into muscle, fat and other components.

'Aleph's general goal is to be able to provide nutritious, tasty, sustainable food anywhere, anytime,' said Zvika Tamari, the head of space research, adding that ' stretching that to its limit is the ability to also provide nutrition in space.'

In terms of outreach, an ancient coin minted by Jewish rebels revolting against the Romans 1,900 years ago will accompany former Israeli pilot Etan Stibbe to the ISS.

Stibbe, 63, is one of three men who paid $55 million each to launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket for Axiom's first privately crewed mission.

The coin comes from the Bar Kokhba revolt, which took place from 132 to 136 AD and was the final of three Jewish-Roman wars that first began when Romans took control of Jerusalem in 63 AD.

It bears etchings of a palm tree on one side and a vine leaf with the inscription 'Year Two of the liberty of Israel' on the other.'

NASA recently announced the ISS had just nine years of operational life left, with plans to sink it in the South Pacific Ocean in January 2031.

Stibbe (left) will be joined by Larry Connor (right) and Mark Pathy (second right), and led by retired NASA astronaut Michael Lopez-Alegria (second left), who has traveled to space four times and is now the vice president of Aximo Space

On the run up to that happening, the space agency plans to support commercial operators in launching privately funded and run space stations, starting with an Axiom Space module attached to the ISS.

This launch is a precursor to that module, which is expected to dock with the station by the middle of this decade, part of NASA's efforts to built a robust low-Earth orbit economy - driven by the private sector, rather than national players.

Axiom recently completed the preliminary design review of two modules that will be attached to the ISS this decade, then separate into its own free-flying station.

For more than 21 years, NASA has supported a continuous U.S. human presence in low-Earth orbit aboard the space station.

'The agency's goal is to enable a strong, commercial marketplace in low-Earth orbit with private industry where NASA is one of many customers,' a spokesperson said.

'This strategy will provide services the government needs at a lower cost, enabling the agency to focus on its Artemis missions to the Moon in preparation for Mars while continuing to use low-Earth orbit as a training and proving ground for those deep space missions.'
Credit: Aalto University / Petri Anttila

The COVID-19 pandemic has not only tested the economy of entrepreneurs.

A quarter of Finnish entrepreneurs say they feel very exhausted. According to recent Academy of Finland-funded research by Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship Ewald Kibler (Aalto University), in cooperation with Professor Charlotta Siren (University of St. Gallen) and Professor Matthias Fink (Grenoble Ecole de Management), many describe themselves as "exhausted" or "completely exhausted." The research team has collected unique survey material on the experiences of Finnish entrepreneurs since the beginning of the pandemic.

Exhaustion was defined in the study as a chronic condition that can be both physical and psychological due to excessive work, personal pressure, and persistent stress.

"The situation has remained fairly stable since the beginning of the pandemic. The peak level of exhaustion was measured in summer 2021, when we collected survey interview data for the fourth time," says Ewald Kibler.

According to the study, entrepreneurs under the age of 40 experienced the pandemic particularly stressful and painful in the first year, and their desire for life and work decreased the most. At the beginning, those over 40 did not experience the pandemic as tiring as younger entrepreneurs.

"Our results indicate that younger entrepreneurs perceived COVID-19 as a serious threat to themselves. Especially at the beginning of the pandemic, younger entrepreneurs reported more often than older entrepreneurs that they were concerned that they get the coronavirus but also that vaccinations would cause them to fall ill and that they would lose their functional capacity. The difference in sentiment among entrepreneurs of different ages narrowed, even disappeared, and the satisfaction of entrepreneurs of all ages with their lives decreased as a whole."

During the pandemic, there has also been discussion over how the uneven distribution of domestic work, especially childcare, has posed additional challenges to women's work.

The research did not bring up this point in relation to the exhaustion of entrepreneurs.

"Female entrepreneurs did not report more exhaustion or less job satisfaction than male entrepreneurs," says Kibler.

Surveys continue

By February 2022, researchers had interviewed entrepreneurs five times. The first round of survey took place in April 2020 only a month after the World Health Organisation (WHO) had announced that the COVID-19 had spread into a pandemic. In 2020, entrepreneurs were interviewed twice more on how business reacted to the pandemic after the initial shock. In 2021, there were also two survey rounds, which addressed the long-term consequences of the pandemic. The next survey, in February and March, will focus on the impact of the omicron wave on the coping of entrepreneurs.

The study includes 117 companies, half of which are located in Southern Finland and one third in Western Finland.

The age of companies varies from young growth companies to companies founded 80 years ago. The average age of companies is over 20 years and they employ an average of 21 people. Almost half (45.6 percent) of the companies are family businesses and 60 percent represented service business. Men account for 61.6 percent of the survey respondents and women for 38.4 percent. The average age of the entrepreneurs is 51 years and they have worked as entrepreneurs for an average of 11 years.
New ideas around organic agriculture, scientific research, and women in politics were encouraged by Offaly Minister Pippa Hackett, during a Seanad speech on Tuesday, February 2.

She was speaking about springtime and the Celtic festival of Imbolc.

With calving and lambing underway, the lengthening of the days, and evidence of new growth, Imbolc is also about the seeds of new ideas, she said.

We are one of the worlds top agricultural producers, yet we have one of the lowest rates of organic production in Europe. Organic farming is still a new idea to many. So, if you are a farmer, please consider it, because organic farming will be a big part of our future.

Minister Hackett is reopening the Organic Farming Scheme with an additional 5m this year, and will this week launch an MA in Organic and Biological Agriculture at Waterford Institute of Technology, designed to upskill farmers and growers in organic agriculture practices.

During her speech, she also referenced St. Brigid and her association with Croghan Hill in Offaly where the saint reputedly became a nun.

Brigid is well recognised as a patron of all things nature and agriculture, so Id like to pay tribute to all the women in agriculture and in science, who work so hard, in sectors dominated by men, the Minister said.

As someone with a science background myself, I want to encourage more young women to take up careers in science, technology, engineering, maths and agriculture, and  like all of the women here in this chamber  politics. We need more women in politics, in every party, and at every level.

I was delighted to welcome a young woman into politics this week in Co Laois  Rosie Palmer from Ballinakill. She is playing her part not only in a greener future for Laois, but in increasing female representation in politics in Ireland.

I would also like to applaud two young scientists  granddaughters of farmers  who presented a project on milk quality at the BT Young Scientist exhibition recently.

Caoimhe OGrady and Clodagh McGauran from Navan, compared the quality and yield of milk produced from mixed species sward, to that coming from a rye grass sward. This is a topic close to my own heart, and the results were encouraging.
The Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning Commission on Wednesday voted in favor of a plan that would make the former Lincoln Fire & Rescue station at 84th and South streets surplus property.

The designation, which will have to be approved by the City Council, will allow the city to sell the property to interested buyers.

The site, which was the former home to Fire Station 12, has been vacant since the fall of 2019, when the station was relocated to a new building at 84th Street and Pioneers Boulevard.

Assistant Fire Chief Pat Borer told the Journal Star last month that both he and a representative of the city's Urban Development Department had been approached by people interested in the 1.65-acre site, but he did not know what any of their plans are.

A Planning Department staff report says the fire station could be redeveloped as a residence but that commercial development might be more appropriate for the site because there is a natural gas pipeline running through it. Under the city's Pipeline Planning Area rules, new residential development must be located at least 175 feet from any existing pipelines, but there is no such prohibition on commercial development.

In other action Wednesday, the Planning Commission recommended approval of an annexation and zoning change of land at West Pioneers Boulevard and South Folsom Street.

The annexation includes more than 61 acres, while the zoning change covers about 47 acres that includes Hope Reformed Church and adjacent land that would be developed into hundreds of housing units and a small amount of commercial space.

Hoppe Development plans to build 650 apartments, town homes and single-family homes on the site, along with about 15,000 square feet of commercial space. About 170 of the units would be designated as affordable.

On Monday, the City Council approved $18 million in housing revenue bonds for the project, called Foxtail Meadows, a first step necessary for Hoppe to apply for federal affordable housing tax credits.
Hong Kong: Patrick Nip visits jab centre

Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip visited the community vaccination centre at the Education Bureau Kowloon Tong Education Services Centre today to inspect its first day of operation in the Year of the Tiger.

Mr Nip learnt more about the views of people who had received vaccination there and thanked the medical and administrative support staff for their dedicated efforts to serve the public.

He said 12 community vaccination centres are open in advance to provide jab services to the public on the third day of the Lunar New Year and more vaccination venues will resume operation tomorrow.

Mr Nip noted that there are cases that tested positive for COVID-19 with an unknown source of infection in some districts and that regardless of the districts people live in, vaccination is the best way for them to protect themselves.

The Lunar New Year period is also an opportune time for vaccination, he added.

The civil service chief appealed to those who have not been vaccinated yet to do so as early as possible for self-protection.

He also urged the public to make vaccination appointments for the elderly in their families as soon as possible.

To assist seniors in receiving the jab, people aged 60 or above are accorded the same-day ticket service at community vaccination centres.

This story has been published on: 2022-02-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Power projects in the country do not have any coal shortage currently and these plants have got 25 per cent higher of 430.6 million tonnes in April-December 2021 compared to a year ago, Parliament was informed on Thursday.

"Presently, there is no shortage of coal for power plants in the country," Union Power Minister R K Singh on Thursday said in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

According to the reply, the total quantity of coal despatched to the power sector by Coal India Ltd (CIL) and Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL) during April-December 2021 stood at about 430.6 million tonnes (MT), against about 344.2 MT in the year-ago period. It was about 375.2 MT during the corresponding period of 2019-20.

The despatch showed a growth of about 25 per cent with respect to the preceding year and by about 15 per cent with respect to 2019-20, it added.

Further, Singh told the House that the coal import has reduced to 21.4 MT during 2021-22 (April-December) as against 35.1 MT during the same period of 2020-21 and 52.5 MT during the same period of 2019-20.

The shortfall in imported coal has been compensated by supply from domestic coal, he stated.

He also informed the House that as a result of the above measures, the coal stock available at the power plants has increased from 7.2 MT as on October 8, 2021, to about 25 MT as on January 26, 2022.

The Government of India has taken the following measures to increase the to power plants.

To address the issues of coal supplies to the power sector, an inter-ministerial sub-group meet regularly to take various operational decisions to enhance the supply of coal to thermal power plants (TPPs) as well as for meeting any contingent situations related to the power sector, including to alleviate critical coal stock position in power plants.

The group comprises representatives from ministries of power, coal and railways, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Coal India Limited (CIL) and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL).

The Ministry of Power (MoP) has constituted a core management team (CMT) with members from MoP, Railways, CEA, CIL, NTPC, DVC and POSOCO, to ensure close monitoring of coal stocks at TPPs. And, operational decisions are being taken in CMT to augment the supply of a sufficient quantity of coal to the TPPs.

The government has issued the revised coal stocking norms, which mandates the power plants to maintain sufficient stocks at all times to meet any contingent situation.

Power utilities import coal considering their requirement as well as cost economics.

Further, the Ministry of Power on December 7, 2021, advised power plants to import required coal for the blending purpose during 2022-23.

(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.)
Hong Kong: Govt work arrangements expanded

In view of the severity of the COVID-19 epidemic situation, which may continue to deteriorate, the Government announced today that bureaus and departments will expand special work arrangements tentatively until February 11.

Save for those involved in the provision of emergency services and essential public services and in anti-epidemic efforts, all other government employees will be arranged to work from home as far as possible.

During the implementation of the special work arrangements, government departments will continue to provide emergency services and essential public services. They will also continue to proactively mobilise government employees at different times to join the anti-epidemic efforts in different roles.

To reduce the flow of people in government buildings and offices, citizens are encouraged to use the post, drop-in boxes or online channels to receive the services they need.

They should wear surgical masks when entering or are present in any government buildings or offices, and comply with the infection control and social distancing measures implemented by relevant departments including using the LeaveHomeSafe mobile app and adhering to temperature checks and crowd control arrangements.

The Government also appealed to employers to allow their staff to work from home as far as possible.

This story has been published on: 2022-02-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
KATHMANDU, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Nepal had fully vaccinated over half of its population by Thursday as the South Asian country is battling against the third wave of the COVID-19, the Ministry of Health and Population said.

With 266,540 people inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines in the last 24 hours, Nepal had 14.92 million people fully vaccinated by Thursday afternoon, which accounted for 51.2 percent of the country's total population of 29.12 million, said the ministry.

"This is obviously a big achievement, and this has been possible due to the support of all the stakeholders," Samir Kumar Adhikari, a ministry spokesman, told Xinhua.

"We could have achieved a higher vaccination coverage with the active participation of people all the time," he said. "There is a tendency among people to line up to take the vaccines when the COVID-19 cases surge while staying passive at other times."

He added that Nepali people have largely been supportive of the vaccination drive launched in late January last year.

In Nepal, nearly 71 percent of those aged 18 and above had been fully vaccinated and nearly 87 percent of this age group had received at least one dose of vaccines by Thursday afternoon, the Health Ministry said, noting that 68.4 percent of the population had been administered with at least one dose of vaccines.

The country has so far received 45.7 million doses of vaccines, the ministry said.

The Nepali government aims to vaccinate all the population by mid-April, and the third wave of the coronavirus that began since the start of the new year has sickened fewer people in recent days. 
An attorney for one of four hunters charged with criminal trespass in a corner-crossing case in Carbon County has asked a judge to dismiss the count against his client and the three other defendants.

The motion is one of two that attorney Ryan Semerad of Casper filed in the case in which the four Missouri men used a ladder to cross from one public U.S. Bureau of Land Management section to another. The four avoided actually entering into or intruding upon any part of the private sections of land at the corner, the dismissal motion states.

Semerads second filing seeks to consolidate the four trespass cases for trial. The filings indicate that the men, who all pleaded not guilty, intend to fight the charges that bring a maximum penalty of six months in prison and a $750 fine.

Authorities charged Semerads client, Phillip G. Yeomans, along with Bradly H. Cape, John W. Slowensky and Zachary M. Smith on Oct. 4.

Federal law prohibits any person or group of persons from preventing Mr. Yeomans, his friends, or others from freely passing through public lands, the motion for dismissal states. Consequently, private landowners cannot prevent or obstruct free passage from one section of public land to another by claiming that the common corner where two private sections of land and two public sections of land meet is their exclusive property, land, or premises.

Accordingly, the State of Wyoming cannot prosecute Mr. Yeomans or any other person for criminal trespass when Mr. Yeomans or another person travels from one section of public land to another section of public land at a common corner with two sections of private land, the motion reads.

The case arises out of the checkerboard pattern of land ownership that grew from the divvying of property during western settlement, including railroad construction land grants the federal government made in the 1800s. The ownership pattern creates common corners where four sections of property intersect, private sections kitty-corner from one another and the public sections also diagonally opposite one another.

The charges allege that stepping from one public parcel to the other  chess-bishop fashion  constitutes a criminal trespass under Wyoming law. Hunters and others are effectively barred from 1.6 million acres of public land in the West by such interpretations.

One corner in question was apparently guarded by two fence posts erected on the private parcels and connected with a chain and wire. A photograph posted on a GoFundMe webpage supporting the hunters shows no trespassing signs for the Elk Mountain Ranch hanging from the private-land fence posts. A survey marker in the photograph presumably indicates the four corners common point.

The motion gives the following summary of the events.

The four hunters set up camp on public BLM land on Sept. 26. On Sept. 30 Steve Grende, land manager for Elk Mountain Ranch, called Wyoming Game and Fish officer Jake Miller to report a trespass.

Miller found the hunters, clad in camo and carrying bows, used a fence ladder to cross a corner. The hunters gave Miller a cell-phone depiction of their route tracked on the onX hunt-mapping cell phone app. This picture  does not show that the hunters had ever entered into private sections of land owned by Elk Mountain Ranch, the motion reads.

The hunters did not rely on the GPS device, which they understood to only be accurate to 30 feet. Rather they sought out the corner marker at every corner of public land before crossing the corner using their fence ladder, the motion states.

At that point, Miller in conjunction with Mr. Grende, granted the hunters permission to recover certain elk meat that they had harvested from public land across the corner from the section of public land where the hunters base camp was located due to the perishable nature of that meat in the field.

But Grende was dissatisfied and said, after discussions about the law, that if the Wyoming Supreme Court deemed corner crossing legal, the ranch owner would take extra steps to obstruct, prevent or block access to public lands. A body camera worn by a sheriffs deputy recorded conversations, the motion states.

Later Sgt. John Moore of the Carbon County Sheriffs Office notified Deputy Patrick Patterson that the Carbon County attorney wanted citations issued, the motion states. Ashley Mayfield Davis is the Carbon County attorney.

Dismissal is warranted because federal law prohibits any person from preventing free passage over or through public lands, the motion states. Of course, then, a person must have the freedom to travel from one section of public land to another distinct, but physically adjoining section of public land, the filing reads.

[T]he states application of trespass law actually conflicts with federal laws, Semerand wrote. Accordingly the States application of Wyomings criminal trespass statute here is preempted by the federal law on point such that this prosecution ought to be dismissed.

The motion makes other points regarding the supremacy of federal law over state statutes and cites the Unlawful Inclosures of Public Lands Act of 1885 as one cornerstone in the hunters defense.

[T]his common corner is literally composed of equal parts private property and public property, the motion reads. Consequently, the public retains, as both a matter of course and logic, a correspondingly equal right to use and access this common corner.

Yet, Elk Mountain Ranch and other similarly situated private landowners claim the common corner as their exclusive property alone, the motion reads. The ranch claim is an unlawful enclosure or obstruction to free passage through public lands by another name, the filing states.

Elk Mountain Ranch and other private landowners may not want the public to access public lands by crossing common corners their property shares with public lands, the motion says. Landowners may extract great riches out of their perceived monopoly over public land adjacent to and landlocked by their large real estate holdings. They may strongly wish to retain the ability to keep making money from the wealthy elite by granting special access to what is, in reality, a public treasure gifted to all Americans.

However, in the American legal system personal interest does not and cannot trump the law.

Semerad also argues that Wyomings criminal trespass law does not explicitly state that corner crossing is illegal  the law itself is conditioned by several factors, the motion states. The filing contests that the act of disturbing an indiscernible segment of private air space for a moment or two is sufficient to have entered or remained on or in private property, as required for conviction under Wyoming law.

The state should not be permitted to bring a charge or secure a conviction based upon some hyper-technical, absurdly literal meaning of enter wherein a person is guilty of a misdemeanor offense for momentarily and harmlessly passing through the airspace over another persons property, Semerads motion states.
Congress leader on Thursday launched a financial assistance scheme of the government for landless labourers of rural areas with around 3.55 lakh beneficiaries instantly receiving Rs 2,000 each in their bank accounts as the first installment under the plan.

Gandhi, during his day-long visit to the state, launched 'Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Bhumiheen Krishi Mazdoor Nyay Yojana' at a function organised in Science College Ground in Chhattisgarh's capital Raipur. The Lok Sabha MP also launched 'Rajiv Yuva Mitan Club' scheme' at the function and distributed financial assistance of Rs 25,000 to its beneficiaries. On the occasion, Gandhi laid the foundation stones of a memorial with an eternal flame to be built here at the 4th battalion of Armed Force for soldiers and security personnel martyred in the line of duty as well as of 'Gandhi Sevagram' ashram in Nava Raipur, the upcoming capital city of the state. It is a happy coincidence as on this day 16 years ago the Mahatma Gandhi Employment Guarantee Scheme was started. And today the 'Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Bhumiheen Krishi Mazdoor Nyay Yojana' is being launched in Chhattisgarh, said Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel while addressing the programme. Under the 'Rajiv Gandhi Bhoomihin Krishi Majdoor Nyay Yojana', registered labourers in rural areas who do not possess agricultural land will be given financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per year in three installments. The first installment of Rs 2,000 was disbursed to beneficiaries at the function. Nearly 3.55 lakh landless families of labourers, barbers, blacksmiths, priests, forest produce collectors and shepherds, among others, will benefit from the first-of-its-kind scheme in the country for which the state government had made a provision of Rs 200 crore in the budget for the financial year 2021-22. The Rajiv Yuva Mitan Club scheme is aimed at connecting young people of the state with creative works, developing leadership skills and making them aware of their social responsibilities.

Under the scheme, 13,269 clubs will be formed in panchayats and urban civic bodies. People in the age group of 15 to 40 years will be part of these clubs.

(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.)
Srinagar, Feb 3 : The President of Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party, Syed Altaf Bukhari, said on Thursday that he will bear the entire treatment expense of the Srinagar acid attack victim.

Bukhari, who condemned the heinous crime, visited the S.M.H.S. Hospital in Srinagar on Thursday to enquire about the health of the victim.

"Whatever the family needs to spend on the medical or legal front will be borne from my own pocket. Keep politics aside, it is a human issue that should be looked through the prism of humanity. If the family wants to shift the victim to any outside hospital, I will bear all the expenses.

"It is very unfortunate that this hapless girl became a victim of a heinous crime against humanity, especially against women. The government should take every step to ensure that exemplary punishment is awarded to the accused involved in such a dastardly act. Such offenders do not deserve leniency," Bukhari said as he hailed the role of the police for their speedy action.

It may be recalled that the 24-year-old woman, working at a beauty parlour to support her poor family, was attacked with acid on Tuesday evening. The police constituted a special investigation team which promptly arrested the culprit and his two accomplices.

On Wednesday, Srinagar Mayor Junaid Azim Mattu gave his one month's salary to the family of the acid attack victim.
The food court at West Towne Mall might not be the optimal location for Taste of Jamaica, because lots of shoppers are looking for a meal costing half as much.

But owner Sanya Anderson, who opened the business Oct. 20, said her mall presence is a stepping stone to one day establishing a restaurant. Shes doing it mainly for the exposure, she said.

While meals range from $13 to $16, theyre enormous portions in huge, heavy boxes that can be shared by two people.

Both the jerk chicken ($15) and curry chicken ($13) came with a large serving of grated, steamed cabbage and carrots with Jamaican spices that were positively delicious.

Its my secret concoction that I make, Anderson said. I put a little bit in there each time. So that gives it a little flavor for sure. Everybody seems to love it.

Each entree came with a choice of side. Those included a gigantic portion of traditional Jamaican rice and peas, always made with kidney beans, not peas, that Anderson seasons with thyme, scallions, sweet peppers, butter and coconut milk.

Or choose the super cheesy mac and cheese with big elbow noodles baked until its exterior was beautifully browned. I like that little crunch on top, Anderson said.

Ripe plantains are fried to order, or customers can get a half ear of previously frozen corn bathed in butter sauce.

The mac and cheese and plantains are both $2.50 a la carte. French fries were another option, as was cornbread, which was unavailable when I was there.

Oxtail, jerk ribs and stew pork were also unavailable on my Thursday lunchtime visit. Anderson did have curry goat.

She said oxtail, a literal cows tail, is hard to find and expensive right now, and that she mustve run out of the ribs the day I was there.

The jerk chicken had two meaty, moist chicken thighs, which the young man who took my order warned me were spicy. They werent overly spicy but had a nice amount of heat. The meal came with a half-full little container of jerk sauce, which improved the rice.

Later, when I talked to Anderson, she said her jerk chicken is really, really spicy. I mean, Im not a fan of spicy hot, I prefer spicy flavorful, but the jerk chicken, it is spicy hot.

Customers, when they eat it, their eyes be watering, noses be running, but theyre like, It is so good, she said, adding that shes still trying to perfect it.

It was not exceedingly hot and close to perfect in my estimation.

The curry chicken was cut into chunks, all with bones, which might not appeal to a wide audience. Potatoes were in the mix, and the curry was thin and mild.

I ordered a bottle of Jamaican Tropical Rhythms guava carrot juice ($4) and a tall can of soursop juice ($4.50) with great results.

The shops chalkboard menu listed three treats: potato pudding, peanut drops and coconut cake. I would have tried any of them, but none were available.

Anderson said she bakes on Sundays, and often by Wednesday the desserts are gone. Shes looking for someone to help in the kitchen, and would like to hire someone Jamaican. Im trying to keep it as authentic as possible, she said.

Shes also busy running her other business, Luxury Dolls Body Bar, which she opened in June at West Towne. There, she offers eyelash extensions and teeth whitening, among other services.

Anderson came to Madison in 2018 after living in Pittsburgh for three months and working as a house cleaner. A family friend in Madison suggested she might like it here, so she moved and got a job at Exact Sciences, where she worked for about two years, starting in customer service.

I resigned and I cashed out all my stocks that I got at Exact, and I just used it toward opening my businesses, she said.

Anderson, whos from Montego Bay, said she opened her own place because there arent many choices for her native food in Madison.

Monona has Davids Jamaican, which is excellent, but the loss of Jamerica on Williamson Street is still felt by many. Owner Martin Deacon retired in 2019 after 24 years.

Taste of Jamaica is a worthy successor.

Diners' scorecard Restaurant: Taste of Jamaica Location: 66 West Towne Mall Phone: 608-821-0079 Website: taste-of-jamaica-madison.business.site Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Prices: Entrees $13 to $17, sides $1.99 to $2.50. Noise level: Medium Credit cards: Accepted Accessibility: Yes Delivery: Soon, through Grubhub and DoorDash Gluten-free: No Vegetarian offerings: A few vegetarian and vegan options Kids menu: No Parking: Large mall lot Service: Excellent Bottom line: Jerk chicken and curry goat are unexpected finds at the mall food court.
People inspect a destroyed house following an operation by the U.S. military in Syria's Idlib province on Thursday. (Ghaith Alsayed / Associated Press)

President Biden announced Thursday that the leader of Islamic State was killed during an overnight raid by U.S. forces in Syria that also left a number of civilians dead, declaring the operation a success that eliminated a "major terrorist threat to the world."

Thanks to the bravery of our troops, this horrible terrorist leader is no more," Biden said during an address from the White House.

Senior administration officials said all troops returned safely from the mission, and portrayed the slaying of Abu Ibrahim Hashimi Qurayshi as a major victory in the nation's counterterrorism efforts. Qurayshi, who took over the reins of Islamic State in 2019 following the slaying of its previous leader, had been coordinating "the group's global terror operations to include directing operations that pose a direct threat to the American people and our partners around the world," said a senior U.S. administration official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter.

The wreckage of an American helicopter in the Afrin area of Syria after an overnight raid. (Omar Albam / Associated Press)

Qurayshi was one of the last of the original leaders of a now-hobbled terrorist network that just a few years ago held domain over 8 million people as it carried out attacks in Brussels, Paris and other cities. Though Islamic State has been stripped of its caliphate and depleted, it and Al Qaeda have sought to expand in Africa and Southeast Asia, establishing branches and affiliates in dozens of countries, with the goal of attacking the U.S. and its allies, according to administration officials.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said Thursday that the group, "though still very much a viable threat, is now weaker."

The administration officials said measures were taken to reduce civilian casualties in the raid against Qurayshi, but rescue workers with Syrian Civil Defense, a group of first responders known as the White Helmets working in opposition-controlled areas, reported that at least 13 people were killed, including six children and four women. They said they also provided medical assistance to a young girl who lived in the house.

U.S. officials blamed their deaths on Qurayshi, who they said blew up himself and his family in his third-floor apartment as the raid unfolded. An Islamic State lieutenant who had been barricaded in a second-floor apartment was also killed during the raid, U.S. officials said, though they did not specify how he died.

Men carry the body of a child who was killed in the U.S. raid in Syria. (Anas Alkharboutli / Associated Press)

At least four children left the second floor safely, and a family on the first floor was removed safely, said the officials, who acknowledged that other women and children could have remained and died. They said they did not believe the reported totals of civilian casualties were accurate but did not provide their own accounting of how many bystanders were hurt or killed. Qurayshi purposefully lived among civilians and used "these innocent people as a shield," a senior administration official said.

U.S. officials spent months planning the raid. Biden received an extensive briefing on the proposed operation in December and gave the final go-ahead Tuesday morning. The president watched the raid, which officials described as "incredibly complex" and "high risk," in real time from the White House Situation Room, officials said.

The administration officials said they long suspected Qurayshi would attempt to blow himself up during the operation, in hopes of destroying the building and injuring American troops and killing more civilians. In anticipation of such a suicide bombing, they conducted a remote engineering study to determine whether the building would withstand such an explosion and concluded that it would. The officials said the building largely survived the detonation, with American troops at a safe distance.

A damaged building near the site of the U.S. raid in Syria. (Rami al Sayed / AFP/Getty Images )

"He chose to blow himself up not just in the vest but to blow up that third floor rather than face justice for the crimes he has committed, taking several members of his family with him, just as his predecessor [did]," Biden said, calling it a "final act of desperate cowardice."

Biden said that he chose to conduct a riskier raid with troops on the ground, rather than target Qurayshi in an airstrike, because "this terrorist had chosen to surround himself with families, including children," and "we made this choice to minimize civilian casualties."

Qurayshi is the second Islamic State leader to be killed in Idlib, a verdant province once famous for its olive groves that has since become the last bastion of those opposed to the government of Syrian President Bashar Assad. The province is controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a jihadist umbrella group that includes a former affiliate of Al Qaeda in Syria.

The compound in Syria's Idlib province before the U.S. raid that resulted in the death of Islamic State's leader. (U.S. Department of Defense )

In 2019, U.S. special forces attacked a nondescript house on the periphery of Barisha, a small village near the Turkish border, where Abu Bakr Baghdadi, then Islamic States so-called caliph, was hiding. He died after detonating an explosive vest.

A U.S. official said Qurayshi was a "driving force" in the genocide of the Yazidi religious minority in Iraq and the enslavement of thousands of young Yazidi girls. The Yazidis are a religious minority group whose homeland in northern Iraq was overrun when Islamic State scythed through the area in 2014. The group then began a pogrom, killing some 3,000 men and boys and kidnapping and then enslaving thousands of women and girls.

Qurayshis death comes days after the terrorist group launched an audacious assault to release cadres imprisoned in the Syrian city of Hassakeh, a complex operation that observers believe could signal the groups resurgence. Even so, Qurayshi's tenure marked a nadir for Islamic State, which in 2015 ruled one-third of Iraq and of Syria, an area the size of Britain.

Islamic State lost the last of its self-styled caliphate in 2017 to a U.S.-led coalition working with Kurdish militiamen. Since then, Islamic State militants have hidden in the shadowlands between Iraq and Syria.

Blood covers the floor of a house destroyed in an overnight raid by U.S. forces in Syria. (Ghaith Alsayed / Associated Press)

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a U.K.-based watchdog that monitors the war in Syria via a network of activists, reported that what began as a standoff Thursday soon turned into an all-out battle, with militants firing rocket-propelled grenades and heavy anti-aircraft guns against U.S. forces.

Other reports said that a U.S. helicopter used in the operation was damaged and forced to land before it was abandoned and destroyed. American officials said the helicopter was disabled because of mechanical issues, denying the problem was a result of "hostile action."

Activists near Dair Ballout, a Syrian hamlet a few miles from the Syrian-Turkish border, reported on social media that they saw helicopters flying in the area sometime after midnight.

Several videos  which could not be independently verified  purport to show the attack. In one, heavy machine gun fire breaks out, presumably from an unseen helicopter. In another, a blaze illuminates one of the building's entrances, while a voice on a loudspeaker in Arabic tells those inside that the area is surrounded and that children should come out.

Video taken by a reporter with Al-Akhbar Al-Aan, a United Arab Emirates-based news channel, purported to show the target of the raid. In the clip, a reporter walks through the building, showing cinderblocks spilled to the side from where missiles had slammed into the wall; the floors are covered with the smashed remains of belongings and clothing. Blood splatters the walls, along with a large smear of red near the entrance.

Bierman reported from Washington and Bulos from Kyiv, Ukraine. Times staff writer Eli Stokols in Washington contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Army Corps of Engineers said this past week it will recommend that Congress approve $144 million in projects to reduce flood damage along creeks in the Omaha metro area.

Included are two dams, construction of a levee/flood wall along the Little Papillion Creek in central Omaha, elevating or flood-proofing some homes and businesses, and erecting floodgates at several creek crossings.

The corps decision is the latest chapter in battles over flood control in the metro area dating to the 1970s.

The plan has been promoted by the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District, local governments including the Omaha City Council, and some businesses whose property is at risk along creeks, notably the Nebraska Furniture Mart.

Those opposed include the Washington County Board and landowners who would lose homes and see their property values drop because of one of the dams.

John Winkler, general manager of the NRD, said there is an urgent need for better flood protection in the area.

The Corps of Engineers has estimated the cost-benefit ratio of the plan at 1.7 to 1, he said.

In other words, the value of property protected is 70% higher than the cost, thus about $240 million worth of property would be better protected.

The flood risks in the Papillion Creek Watershed are significant, Winkler said.

Winkler said about 12,000 residents and 2,500 structures would see a reduced risk of flooding because of these projects. Those structures include homes and businesses, schools and emergency services, along with utility lines, he said.

But a study funded by the Washington County Board and the Papio Valley Preservation Association found that the Corps of Engineers is significantly overstating the benefits. The study was conducted by Steven Shultz, a professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha who specializes in real estate and land use economics.

Shultz said in his analysis that the cost-benefit ratio and other figures in the corps report were incorrect, misleading or inflated and that some were improperly included.

Washington County Board member Lisa Kramer said the study buttresses the boards contention that the dam proposed near the Douglas/Washington County line would do little to protect Omaha from flooding.

Additionally, the dam would require removing or relocating nine homes and would devalue adjacent land.

The biggest reason for flooding in midtown (Omaha) is the concrete, Kramer said. And thats due to poor planning and zoning in the City of Omaha. Theyre trying to solve a problem in Omaha by imposing eminent domain on rural landowners.

The next step is for the corps to submit the plan to Congress. It will be up to Congress to decide whether to approve and fund the projects.

The decision would pit rural landowners and Washington County against urban Omaha interests.

None of these projects are included in the hundreds of millions of federal infrastructure dollars flowing into Nebraska.

Here are the projects proposed in the plan:

 A small reservoir on the South Papillion Creek near Gretna. Known as Dam Site 19, the 74-acre lake would be about half the size of Standing Bear Lake. The park around the lake would include a 2.5-mile walking trail, restrooms, a picnic shelter and boat ramp. Winkler said the lake has widespread support.

 A larger dry dam on Thomas Creek in northwest Douglas County. A dry dam has a lake behind it only during periods of heavy runoff. Known as Dam Site 10, the lake would have a 345-acre footprint that would extend into Washington County. Its flooded size would be somewhat smaller than Cunningham Lake. The dam would place nine homes and adjacent farmland underwater in periods of heavy runoff.

 A new levee/flood wall along the Little Papillion Creek and Keystone Trail. The levee/wall would run several miles from Cole Creek to Saddle Creek on one side of the Little Papio and from Charles Street to Spring Street on the other, protecting parts of central Omaha, including the Nebraska Furniture Mart and Aksarben Village.

 Construction of floodgates where Mercy Road and Pacific, Dodge, Cass and 72nd streets cross the Little Papio. Gates would also be placed at several pedestrian bridges. The gates would tie into levee improvements.

 Filling in 71 basements, elevating 59 residential buildings, and floodproofing 256 commercial, industrial and municipal structures.

The federal government would shoulder $91.5 million in costs. The local cost would be $52.2 million.

Not included in this plan are a handful of other dams proposed by the Papio NRD or any projects to reduce flooding downtown, which is outside the Papillion Creek watershed.
BOISE - The Idaho Department of Correction is searching for a South Boise Womens Correctional Center resident who walked away from the facility.

An IDOC staff member spotted Crystal R. Morford, IDOC #129173, as she got into a white vehicle on Pleasant Valley Road at Ten Mile Creek Road at 5:35 p.m. Tuesday.

Morford, 23, is white, 5 feet 6 inches tall, 123 pounds with green eyes and red hair. Her criminal record includes convictions for possession of a controlled substance in Nez Perce County and Idaho County. She was eligible to be considered for parole on April 24, 2023. Her sentence was to be discharged on Oct. 23, 2024.

The South Boise Womens Correctional Center is a minimum security treatment and transition facility for female residents.

People with information about Morfords whereabouts should call 9-1-1.
As Illinois parents and educators await a Springfield judges ruling that could roll back Gov. J.B. Pritzkers COVID-19 school mask mandate, some suburban school districts are demanding the state deliver an off ramp from nearly two years of required virus mitigations.

The school districts requests for transition guidance from the state is emerging this week as 146 school districts, including Chicago Public Schools, prepare for the impact of a pending decision by Sangamon County Circuit Judge Raylene Grischow, who is expected to rule soon on a request to temporarily halt the governors executive orders on masking and quarantining for schools.

Grischow is considering a lawsuit from about 700 parents who allege the states virus mitigation rules for schools, including masking and exclusion from class for students who were exposed to the virus and their close contacts, deprives students of due process.

But the litigation is lingering alongside plummeting COVID-19 rates in recent weeks, prompting some suburban school district leaders and parents to ask Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the states board of education to provide guidance on how to eventually transition away from virus protocol, including masking, social distancing and exclusion from school.

In a Tuesday tweet directed to IDPH, the Illinois State board of Education and Pritzker, Kaine Osburn, the superintendent at Wilmette-based Avoca School District 37 said, Numbers are declining. You dont need to answer now, but in the coming weeks please develop a plan & metrics for the option to off-ramp masks in schools. Its leadership only your team can provide & things will get messy without it.

Osburns plea was accompanied by an IDPH chart showing steep drops in the rolling 7-day average COVID-19 positivity rate as omicron peaked and then began to decline.

Im not saying were going to get rid of masks now, but that its time for a plan, Osburn said in a Tuesday interview. Were getting pressure from the community on both sides.

Officials at Winnetka Public Schools District 36 are also seeking guidance from the state with hopes of transitioning out of required virus protocol with the goal of being ready once conditions improve.

I am writing to advocate for school and health officials working together to design an exit strategy for COVID-19 mitigations and a measured return to normalcy, District 36 Superintendent Trisha Kocanda said in a letter to Pritzker and IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike.

Officials with the state health department and state school board did not respond to a request for comment.

One question surrounding the litigation before Grischow is whether local school boards would have the authority to pass their own virus mitigation measures if she grants a temporary restraining order halting the governors virus protocols.

In Barrington 220 School District, which is among the districts facing litigation, the board of education voted Monday to approve benchmarks that officials said will inform future mitigation decisions.

Assuming current case trends continue and local control is an option, we will likely share a date and more details on a shift to situational masking, officials said in a parent letter.

In the meantime, officials said the district remains universally masked with all contract tracing and quarantine procedures.

In recent weeks, there has been a steep drop in the average rate of new COVID-19 cases, per 100,000 school-age children, particularly in the Chicago area, according to a Tribune analysis of state and census data. After peaking around 300 new cases a day, per 100,000 kids ages 5-17, regions in the Chicago area have now dropped below half that, and some far more.

In Chicago, for example, by Tuesday, the rate of newly detected cases averaged under 50 after peaking near 280. Chicagos rate for school-age children hasnt been this low since mid-December, although its still roughly triple what it was around Halloween.

Barrington resident Marsha McClary, a mother of five who has four children enrolled in District 220, said given the recent decline in virus rates, it was responsible of the school board to prepare for an eventual halting of COVID-19 school mitigations.

McClary is among the contingent of parents who believe when it comes to students, the masks are causing more harm than good.

My daughter tells me she cant hear the teacher. ... They cant see the expressions on the faces of their teachers and friends, to know if they are happy or upset, and to gauge their reactions, McClary said.

I think the vast majority of those who want to see an end to masking are not anti-mask, but we want to make decisions for our own families, she said.

For Arlington Heights resident Robyn Swanson, a mother of three  including 13-year-old twins who had liver transplants as toddlers, and are immunocompromised  the future of the states mask mandate and other COVID-19 mitigation strategies is deeply personal.

We had an incredible journey and a long fight getting our kids healthy, so its very frustrating when people say, most kids are fine when they get COVID, said Swanson, whose children attend Arlington Heights School District 25.

District 25 is one of 21 Illinois school districts facing a lawsuit targeting the states requirement that school employees either receive the COVID-19 vaccine or test weekly.

Are we willing to write off that 1 to 2% of students? Thats just not OK, but I do get that its very difficult for people to understand, because if your kids were never in a situation like mine, its hard to put your head around it, Swanson said.
It's official: A Nebraska broadband development project backed by a partnership between a telecommunications company and public power district will not receive 2021 Nebraska Broadband Bridge Program funds.

In October, Glenwood Telecommunications Company and South Central Public Power District (SCPPD) submitted an application for $3.9 million in NBBP funds for broadband development in parts of Clay, Nuckolls and Webster counties.

A private telecom and public power district have never teamed up on rural broadband development like that, but Nebraska Public Power District's Pat Pope is hopeful that it can happen and has been leading efforts to forge such partnerships in other parts of Nebraska, including in the Columbus area.

Much of the reason public power has never been involved in rural broadband development is because Nebraska law forbids public power from selling internet service to end users. On the other hand, a huge cost barrier often discourages internet service providers from building high-speed broadband infrastructure in rural areas with fewer customers. A partnership, though, would allow public power districts -- which already have some infrastructure in place to serve rural customers -- to still participate by helping with the cost burden, while keeping telecoms the internet service provider.

Grant funding will still be essential to the process, though, which is why Glenwood -- as the telecom between the two entities -- submitted a project application requesting $3.9 million of the $20 million 2021 NBBP funding.

But the Glenwood and SCPPD project didn't make the list when the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) announced NBBP fund recipients in early January.

Telecommunications company Windstream challenged the Glenwood & SCPPD project on the grounds that Windstream already provided adequate service to customers in parts of the project area. The PSC upheld Windstream's challenge, but because it only covered parts of the project area, the PSC allowed Glenwood to revise the applications for the two projects and submit them by Jan. 28 for a shot at $2 million of the 2021 NBBP funds that went unrewarded by the PSC in January.

In the end, though, a revised version of the Glenwood and SCPPD application was not submitted. Glenwood General Manager Stan Rouse said they would have had to remove a number of communities from the project area.

"When some communities were removed from that...financially, it wasn't feasible," Rouse said.

But, SCPPD General Manager Craig Cox said that doesn't necessarily mean things are over. Rouse agreed.

"I don't consider it dead in the water. We're going to keep trying to see if we can figure out a way to make it work," Rouse said.

Moreover, Glenwood did emerge from the NBBP process with something to show for its efforts.

In October, Glenwood submitted a second, completely separate application for a Fillmore County broadband project. The Fillmore County project did not involve a partnership with SCPPD.

Windstream challenged the Fillmore County project, and the PSC upheld the challenge. However, like the challenge to the Glenwood & SCPPD project, Windstream's challenge to the Fillmore County project only covered parts of the project area.

Glenwood didn't revise its Glenwood & SCPPD project application, but it did make adjustments and submitted a revised version of the Fillmore County project application.

"There were only a few customers in some of the small towns (that we had to remove)," Rouse said.

On Tuesday, the PSC put out a press release announcing that the revised Fillmore County project was approved for roughly $1.4 million in 2021 NBBP funds.

"PSC staff reviewed the resubmitted grant for the Fillmore County Project and found that the application as modified met all necessary criteria for approval of funding during the 2021 NBBP grant program year. The remaining $574,660.91 in grant funding from the 2021 NBBP will be added to the $20 million available in the 2022 NBBP grant cycle," the Tuesday press release said.

Rouse and Cox indicated that work on the Glenwood & SCPPD project may continue.

"Going forward we're going to continue to work on things to see if we can improve it or change things to reapply next time," Rouse said.
American College of Surgeons commends President's plan to close gaps in cancer screening

PR Newswire

CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022

<span class="legendSpanClass">Cancer screening requires immediate attention for patients who declined or delayed screening appointments due to the pandemic</span>

CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the American College of Surgeons issued the following comments in response to the February 2 release of the President's Cancer Panel Report,"Closing Gaps in Cancer Screening: Connecting People, Communities, and Systems to Improve Equity and Access."

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) is pleased to support the President's call for increasing cancer screening across the U.S. and the plan's four targeted goals to close gaps in screening.

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, cancer screening requires immediate and continual attention to make up the lost ground for patients who declined or delayed screening appointments during the pandemic.

"Screening is one of our best strategies for detecting cancers early when the disease can be cured. If we find a cancer early, we have more options to treat and cure a patient," said Heidi Nelson, MD, FACS, Medical Director of ACS Cancer Programs, which administers the Commission on Cancer, National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, and National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer.

"It has been a particularly difficult few years for cancer care and screening in the U.S. due to the COVID-19 pandemic," Dr. Nelson added, noting that here have been an estimated 9.4 million missed cancer screening tests across the U.S. in 2020 alone.1 Additionally, the director of the National Cancer Institute projected that there may be 10,000 additional cancer deaths from breast and colorectal cancers due to screening that went missed during the pandemic.2

"This is an incredibly important effort to improve access and equity for all patients with cancer," said Carol Brown, MD, FACS, chief health equity officer at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City; member of the ACS Board of Regents; and a former member of the Biden Cancer Initiative, who attended Wednesday's announcement at the White House. "Surgeons play an essential role in the effort to end cancer as we know it through our surgery, our research, and our constant pursuit of innovation to find cures."

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In an effort to address issues surrounding delayed screenings, the American College of Surgeons Cancer Programs collaborated with the American Cancer Society on a quality improvement initiative and clinical study to accelerate screening numbers in the U.S. By providing easy-to-adopt plans that leveraged existing guidelines, messaging, and interventions, American College of Surgeons-accredited programs worked to increase access to, and participation in, crucial cancer screenings. When national resources were provided, including methods to calculate local screening deficits, 748 cancer programs enrolled in the national Return-to-Screening study and the majority identified local screening deficits, most notably in colorectal cancer. Using these results, 814 quality improvement projects were initiated, with the potential to add 70,000 screening tests per month in 2021.

"This boost in screenings won't make up for all of the lost screenings during the pandemic, but we know it will help save lives. We had the teams, program standards, and a collaborative partner in place with the American Cancer Society to ramp up screenings around the U.S. during a time when we really needed it. We anticipate releasing a peer-reviewed article about our national return to screening campaign soon," said Dr. Nelson

"We applaud the President's commitment to increasing screening as part of his renewed effort to improve outcomes for cancer patients across the nation. We stand ready to do our part to support this critically important work. Our cancer screening efforts show how important it is to have a plan ready that's hard wired to deal with adverse circumstances, such as those we've encountered during the pandemic. While we don't yet know what the full downstream effect will be from screening delays, we are confident that these efforts will make an impact and help improve outcomes for patients," said ACS Executive Director Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS. "The ACS welcomes the opportunity to join with other stakeholders in this collective effort to improve screenings, reduce disparities, and end cancer as we know it."

"FACS" designates that a surgeon is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

1Chen RC, Haynes K, Du S, Barron J, Katz AJ. Association of Cancer Screening Deficit in the United States With the COVID-19 Pandemic. JAMA Oncol. 2021;7(6):878-884.

2Sharpless NE. COVID-19 and cancer. Science. 2020;368(6497):1290-1290.

About the American College of Surgeons

The American College of Surgeons is a scientific and educational organization of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical practice and improve the quality of care for all surgical patients. The College is dedicated to the ethical and competent practice of surgery. Its achievements have significantly influenced the course of scientific surgery in America and have established it as an important advocate for all surgical patients. The College has more than 84,000 members and is the largest organization of surgeons in the world. For more information, visit www.facs.org (.)

Cision

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-college-of-surgeons-commends-presidents-plan-to-close-gaps-in-cancer-screening-301475018.html

SOURCE American College of Surgeons
The graduation rate for the Burke County Public Schools has remained nearly steady according to the most recent data provided by the school system. This is despite a trend in the national graduation rates last year, according to a recent Associated Press story.

Among the 26 states providing information for analysis to Chalkbeat, 20 states saw a decrease in graduation rates, in some cases by more than two percentage points. Challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic are considered to be the most significant cause of this new trend in graduation rates.

Despite these national statistics, graduation rates for BCPS remained nearly steady in 2021, dropping from 91.7% in 2020 to 91.3%. Cheryl Shuffler, BCPS public information officer, credits the Student Services Department, created in 2017, with helping the district stave off the national trend.

Dr. Mike Swan was the first director of student services and now that he is the superintendent, he has continued to make serving students and preparing them for graduation and workforce development a priority, Shuffler said. The department brings together school counselors, social workers, nurses and resource officers to provide a variety of support and interventions that are designed to enhance and nurture the overall well-being of our students.

Shuffler also credits programs started in the wake of the pandemic with helping BCPS graduation rates remain steady. According to Shuffler, middle and high schools are building in 40 minutes into each days schedule of what is called What I Need time. This time is set aside for remediation and intervention in academics and exploration of interests. Shuffler said that flexibility is built into this program allowing teachers the flexibility needed to address the needs and concerns of students.

BCPS also has transitioned Jennifer Hawkins into a new position coordinating the districts Multi-Tiered System of Support program (MTSS).

MTSS is designed to promote student achievement through research based academic practices and coordinated mental health support, Shuffler said. For example, as part of its MTSS program, East Burke Middle School has converted one of its classrooms into the mindfulness room. In the mindfulness room, students engage in yoga, mindfulness or other relaxation techniques in a calming environment.

Shuffler said that BCPS administrators are also working to put new programs into place they hope will help Burke County to continue to resist national trends in graduation rates. She said this semester will see significant increases in the number of students involved in peer tutoring, after school interventions, small group interventions and peer listening sessions. Burke County also is hiring additional certified staff to focus on these new initiatives.

We have rehired nine retired teachers plus we have retired teachers on our substitute list that are doing additional duties to lead the small group interventions, she said.

She added that administration officials will make more hires and roll out more specific plans on these programs later in the semester.

When asked why BCPS is just now making these additional hires almost two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, Shuffler pointed to a variety of factors contributing to delays. She cited a district-wide hiring freeze in 2020 as well as anticipated budget shortfalls. She also said much of the additional funding that will be used to hire extra teachers comes from the Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief provisions of the American Rescue Plan and was not available until June of 2021. Finally, she pointed to the constantly changing nature of the day-to-day realities of new outbreaks, variants and CDC recommendations that have made it difficult to implement long-term plans.

It has been a slow and deliberate process because of the uncertainties and unknowns of COVID, as well as the ups and downs and spikes weve seen, she said.

The Associated Press story said most research suggests that the nationwide downward trends in graduation may continue for the next several years. However, Shuffler said BCPS administrators do not anticipate a significant decline in graduation rates in Burke County.
Local businesses and universities are joining dozens of schools across the region in closing down Thursday due to Winter Storm Landon.

Miami University was one of the first to announce a Thursday closure, which will affect its Oxford and regional campuses from 6 a.m. Thursday through 6 a.m. on Friday. All classes are canceled, officials said.

Incoming weather also caused Northern Kentucky University to close down Thursday, according to a Wednesday evening message. All classes and events are canceled, though essential personnel must report to campus.

Did your school close?: CPS, Lakota, Mason latest to announce Thursday closure. See if your district has a snow day.

Mount St. Joseph University announced its campus will close, too, on Thursday. Virtual classes will continue as scheduled.

Xavier University to operate remotely on Feb. 3 due to Winter Storm Landon

Due to inclement weather, Xavier University classes (day and evening) and offices will operate remotely on Thursday, February 3.

What is a remote day for Xavier students?

From the Universitys Weather and Other Emergency Conditions Protocols:

Faculty and staff are not required to report to campus and are encouraged to remain at their residence.

Classes will move to asynchronous learning. Faculty are urged to communicate with students as soon as possible their plan for alternative, asynchronous learning.

Staff should work remotely to the best of their ability.

Emergency essential personnel should still report as scheduled.

A significant winter weather event will impact the Greater Cincinnati area over the next 2 days, likely to include rain, ice and snow. Xavier leadership is monitoring the situation and preparing to maintain operations. Residential food service will remain in operation, though retail food locations may experience a service interruption.

While the specific impacts of the winter weather event are difficult to predict, the forecast of significant ice accumulation increases the possibility of power outages, both on Xaviers campus and around the region. The University is preparing to sustain essential operations during a power outage, and employees are encouraged to make their own preparations now:

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Take home appropriate materials to do work remotely, including laptops (with charging cord).

Keep electronic devices charged.

Check XU Alert Me contact information and update if needed.

Prepare to stay at their residence, away from campus.

Other Greater Cincinnati colleges, universities move to online learning in preparation for winter storm

Sinclair College is also closing all on-campus classes, labs, clinicals and activities on Thursday, a Wednesday message reads. Online classes will resume as scheduled.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: School closings: Ohio universities cancel class ahead of winter storm
BOCA RATON, Fla., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Atlantic University's Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a 10-year facilities use agreement with Bezos Academy . This agreement will open a tuition-free, Montessori-inspired preschool for low-income families adjacent to FAU's A.D. Henderson University School on FAU's Boca Raton campus in fall 2022.

FAU is the first university in Florida and second in America to host the academy. It's also only the second partnership and location announced in Florida after an affordable housing complex in Orlando.

"I would like to thank the board for their support. It's fitting that we are the first state university in Florida to host Bezos Academy since it directly aligns with FAU's long history of providing the whole community access to an excellent education," said Joel Herbst, Ed.D., superintendent and assistant dean, PK-12 Schools and Educational Programs at FAU. "A.D. Henderson is a choice Title 1 school district that proves children from all economic backgrounds can excel if given the opportunity. Considering their mission, I can't conceive of a better partner than Bezos Academy for a preschool program on our campus."

Bezos Academy preschool will feature six classrooms and will offer year-round programming, five days a week, for children from low-income families between ages 3 and 5. The preschool will follow a schedule that is beneficial for children's learning and growth, while also making it easier for parents who need to work outside the home. It will cover all the operating expenses for the preschool program at no cost to the families it serves. FAU's colleges also will have opportunities to engage with the Academy's programing on various levels.

"It's exciting to partner with an institution like Florida Atlantic University, one of the state's most diverse universities," said Mike George, president of Bezos Academy. "We share their belief that everyone deserves access to a great education. We look forward to helping members of the community FAU serves pursue their dreams with the knowledge their children are learning in a safe, warm, and welcoming environment at no cost."

Families earning up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level with children aged 3 to 4 are eligible to apply. More information and an application to the lottery-based selection process will be posted at www.bezosacademy.org once the school's specific opening date is set.

Provided by Newswise, online resource for knowledge-based news at www.newswise.com

Media Contacts: FAU: Joshua D. Glanzer

Phone: 561-297-1168

[email protected]

Bezos Academy: Katie Ford

Phone: 206-705-7834

[email protected]

SOURCE Florida Atlantic University
Armenian Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe Arman Khachatryan met today with PACE President Tiny Kox, the Armenia in the Council of Europe Facebook page reported.

The message reads:

"During the meeting, Khachatryan stressed the important mission of PACE in protecting human rights, ensuring the strengthening of democracy and the rule of law in Europe, as a pan-European platform for political discussions".

The Resolution on "Activities of Democratic Institutions in Armenia," adopted in PACE winter session, was also highlighted, where it was affirmed that Armenia has considerable progress in democracy development. In this context, it was stressed that in the same resolution the Assembly reaffirmed the imperative of returning the Armenian prisoners of war, the necessity of preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage, as well as the necessity of having just and lasting solutions of Karabakh conflict within the framework of OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship.

Khachatryan briefed the PACE President on the humanitarian consequences of the war unleashed by Azerbaijan against Artsakh, including the repatriation of Armenian POWs and other detainees. The continuous role of PACE in raising and resolving these issues was also highlighted.
Go out, inspect, interact with people over tea, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee instructed senior officers in state administration and police as she enquired and shared updates in an administrative review meeting in Kolkata on Thursday.

Dont bend before political pressure, she told a district superintendent of police, asking the officer if the Governor (Jagdeep Dhankhar) calls him, making her dissatisfaction about the Raj Bhavans consistent probing of affairs in state administration more evident.

Talking to officers in the state machinery and her ministers, Mamata asked the officials, especially ones in the districts, to be more proactive. She asked district magistrates to monitor schemes through physical visits. Twice in a month, one hour is sufficient, she advised.

Read more: Don't order food from Taj: Guv slams Mamata in new row

She asked ICs in police to go beyond routine investigations. The communication doesnt happen that much (this way), she said. She advised officers to go around and check for themselves if government schemes are being executed properly.

Taste the mid-day meal and see if its appropriate, visit an ICDS centre and discuss over tea. Buy the tea yourself, if so be needed. Visit a bit, have tea. Having tea is not a big thing When visiting a village, you see a very poor person, bring his problems to the notice of the district officials, she said.

During her conversation with officers turn-by-turn, she told the nodal police officer of East Midnapore district that there have been complaints about the district, and miscreants make pre-planned attempts at creating disturbance. Mamata said that despite having raised this issue, not much transpired, and she had to intervene.

When the officer responded to the chief minister saying that an inquiry has already been done, action taken and extra force has been deployed, Mamata responded saying that people who indulge in (communal) unrest arent from any specific faith and such certain political leaders try to ignite such situations. This you will have to see strongly. Are you feeling afraid, working there? Does the Governor call you? (saying) Dont do this, that? the CM asked.

The district happens to be the region where Suvendu Adhikari, a former Trinamool leader, now a BJP MLA from Nandigram and Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly, is considered to have a strong hold.

The officer responded, No Maam. Mamata told the officer that he may not speak about it (being called), and he need not pay heed. You work in the state government. You work your way, she said, pointing out that she is having to interfere in issues that concern the district police. Please take care. If you are having problems working there, due to political pressure, you can directly tell me. You will do your work, dont listen to others, she added.
A New York City math teacher has been suspended after she tweeted she would be boycotting a 'dress down' fundraiser for the families of two NYPD officers who were shot during an ambush attack.

Laura Lynne Duffy, a teacher at Fontbonne Hall Academy in Brooklyn, wrote that she would be 'intentionally dressing up' in protest at the 'dress down day' fundraiser - which allows students to come to school in more casual attire than typically permitted.

The school had arranged the fundraiser to raise money for the families of officers Jason Rivera, 22 and Wilbert Mora, 27, who were shot by career criminal Lashawn McNeil, 47, on January 21.

The school announced the fundraiser on the morning of the event, in a tweet that read: 'Today we had a dress down day to honor NYPD Officers, Jason Rivera and Wilbert Mora for their service to NYC. All proceeds will be donated to the families of our fallen officers. Thank you to Sergeant Polanco, Sergeant Singh & Sergeant Oliveri for joining us.'

Duffy tweeted in response: 'If anyone was wondering, I am intentionally dressing up today. #Abolition #BLM.'

She has since deleted her account amid huge backlash.

The maths teacher at Fontbonne Hall Academy in Brooklyn wrote on Twitter that she would be 'intentionally dressing up'

NYPD officers Wilbert Mora (left), 27, and Jason Rivera (right), 22 , were shot by career criminal Lashawn McNeil, 47, on January 21

Yesterday police officers arrived to St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York for the funeral of Wilbert Mora

School officials have now launched a probe into the post and have said they 'do not endorse the personal comments of the faculty member'.

On Wednesday Fontbonne Hall said in a statement: 'It has come to the attention of the administration of Fontbonne Hall that one of our teachers tweeted a politically charged statement in regard's to today's student led fundraiser in support of the fallen NYPD officers.

'Fontbonne Hall does not endorse the personal comments of this faculty member and we will continue to advance the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of all inclusive love, unity and reconciliation and prayers are with the families of the fallen officers and we remain proud of our students for the compassion they showed today.

'We are conducting an internal investigation of the matter and will share an update when appropriate.'

Yesterday New York City came to a standstill as thousands of police officers arrived to St. Patrick's Cathedral for the funeral of Mr Mora.

The officer's funeral took place at the same Roman Catholic cathedral where officer Jason Rivera was eulogized and posthumously promoted to detective last Friday.

In her emotional eulogy delivered in Spanish, Mr Mora's older sister, Karina Mora, described her younger brother as a man who was 'full of dream' and who 'lit up the room with his smile.'

Mora argued that police officers had been left defenseless against the rising tide of violence in the city, and called on New York's lawmakers to crack down on soft-on-crime policies.

Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell delivered a powerful speech, telling Mr Mora's family members and fellow officers filling the cavernous marble church: 'An ocean of officers shouldn't have to line streets for the second time in five days, to mourn the appalling loss of a 27-year-old son and brother.'

Just like she did during Rivera's funeral, Sewell announced that Mr Mora has been posthumously promoted to detective first grade, drawing applause from the crowd.

Fontbonne Hall in Brooklyn (pictured) is an independent Catholic high school for girls

Fontbonne Hall Academy in Brooklyn said in a statement that they would be carrying out an investigation into the post

This week the school said students had arranged the fundraiser to raise money for the families of the fallen officers

Thousands of officers stand outside St Patrick's Cathedral in New York for the funeral of officer Wilbert Mora

Cardinal Dolan exits the cathedral ahead of Officer Mora's casket being carried by his fellow officers

Last week New York City's cops paid emotional tributes to Jason Rivera and Wilbert Mora as hundreds gathered to publicly mourn the passing of their Brothers in Blue.

The officers were shot after being ambushed by career criminal Lashawn McNeil, 47, during a callout over a family dispute in Harlem on January 21.

Medics battled to sav Mora who passed away from his injuries at NYU Langone four days later. Rivera, who had been with the force just over a year, died at the scene.

Hundreds of mourners turned out at a makeshift vigil at the NYPD's 32nd precinct last Wednesday evening to pay their respects to the officers.

NYPD Officer Sterling Medina, who spoke at the makeshift vigil, was overcome with emotion as he shared his own memories of his close friend Wilbert Mora.

Police Benevolent Association President Pat Lynch also thanked the local Harlem community for stepping up for their police force.

Last week hundreds of people took to the streets of New York to pay tribute to the fallen officers

Police officers hold candles as they attend a vigil for the fallen officers in New York

He told the assembled crowds: 'Lighting candles, placing flowers, bowing their heads, feeding our families, taking care of our police officers, not just here on this block, but every place that you see them.

'When we pray for our fallen heroes, we cant forget our third hero. His heroic actions saved lives but left him with a heavy burden to carry.'

Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell said: 'The murders of officers Jason Rivera and Wilbert Mora leave us with broken hearts, flags at half-staff, and black bands on our shields.

'They were great officers doing an important job  work their fellow Finest continue in their honor. Pray for them. Support them. And never forget.'
Karachi, Feb 3 (PTI) Armed assailants attacked two security forces' camps in Pakistan's restive southwestern Balochistan province, triggering an intense exchange of fire in which at least 13 terrorists and seven soldiers were killed, the Army said on Thursday.

The attacks, claimed later by the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), took place in Panjgur and Noshki districts on Wednesday. In Panjgur, the terrorists tried to enter a security forces' camp from two locations while in Noshki they attempted to get into a Frontier Corps (FC) post.

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After successfully repulsing the attacks at both posts, the forces carried out a clearance operation to hunt down the terrorists hiding in the area, according to a statement by the Pakistan Army.

Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed said in a video message that nine terrorists and four soldiers were killed in Noshki.

Also Read | South Koreas Working Age Population Predicted to Fall by 3.2 Million During the 2020-2030 Period.

"The terrorists were repulsed from both places by the Pakistan Army. A few  four to five people  are surrounded by the army in Panjgur and will be defeated," he said, terming it a "great success" against terrorism.

Prime Minister Imran Khan took to Twitter on Thursday to congratulate the security forces for foiling the terror attacks on their camps in Balochistan.

"We salute our brave security forces who repulsed terrorist attacks against security forces' camps in Panjgur & Naushki, Balochistan. The nation stands united behind our security forces who continue to give great sacrifices to protect us, he wrote.

Earlier in a statement, the military's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said: "both attacks were successfully repulsed, inflicting heavy casualties on terrorists.

A Frontier Corps spokesperson also confirmed that two blasts had taken place near the camps in Panjgur and Noshki which were followed by intense firing.

The BLA claimed responsibility for the attacks in a statement. The separatist outfit has recently stepped up attacks on security forces and installations.

The attacks on Wednesday were the latest in a string of such assaults in Balochistan and come a week after ten soldiers were killed in a terrorist attack on a security forces' checkpost in the province's Kech district.

Three Levies Force personnel and a Bugti tribal leader were killed and eight others injured on January 28 in bomb blasts in the Sui area of Dera Bugti.

On January 30, at least 17 people, including two policemen, were injured in a grenade attack in Dera Allahyar town of Jaffarabad district.

Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan in terms of landmass. It is also home to the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Ukraine and Turkey have signed eight intergovernmental documents.

The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey at the Mariinsky Palace in Kyiv on Thursday, February 3, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

Among the concluded documents is a free trade agreement signed by Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Turkish Trade Minister Mehmet Mus.

In addition, the two countries' ministers signed agreements on cooperation in the field of youth policy, taxation, as well as memorandums of understanding in the field of standardization and quality, customs.

The framework agreement on cooperation in the field of high technologies, aviation and space and the intergovernmental protocol introducing amendments to the agreement on cooperation in law enforcement were also signed.

In addition, Ukraine and Turkey signed an action plan on the mutual recognition of programs of authorized economic operators.

Erdogan is on an official visit to Ukraine on February 3.

op
Marc Johnson. Credit: University of Missouri

First Delta, then Omicron. The latest COVID variants have spread like wildfire across the globe in recent months, leading many scientists to wonder when the next variant will appear. Now, scientists may be one step closer to making that determination.

A multi-institutional team of researchers, including virologist Marc Johnson, a professor of molecular microbiology and immunology at the University of Missouri, has detected at least four "cryptic" variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in samples of wastewater from New York City's public sewer system. Their findings were recently published in Nature Communications.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 can continually evolve by acquiring mutations. Variants, such as delta or Omicron, may contain one or more mutations within their viral sequence that help to distinguish themselves from other variants of SARS-CoV-2.

Johnson, a co-corresponding author on the study, believes the results suggest the "cryptic" mutations they identified in New York City could be linked to possible animal origins. While these origins have not been verified yet, he believes one possible source could be the rats that frequent New York City's sewer system.

"For instance, we still don't know where the Omicron variant came from, but it had to come from somewhere," Johnson said. "These variants are bubbling up everywhere, including Omicron, which eventually spilled into the general population and wreaked havoc. We think these weird lineages could be where the next variant of concern for COVID-19 comes from."

In May 2020, MU began working with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to assist Missouri officials with statewide tracking of COVID-19 using human waste. Credit: University of Missouri

Hunting for virus mutations

The idea for this project started in March 2020 after John Dennehy, a virologist and professor of biology at Queens College, City University of New York, began looking for different ways to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Monica Trujillo, an associate professor at Queensborough Community College, City University of New York, shared with Dennehy a study from Australia that described using wastewater to track the spread of a coronavirus, and it inspired Trujillo to ask officials from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection to send her wastewater samples in order to conduct similar work.

In the summer of 2020, Dennehy and Trujillo teamed up with Davida Smyth, the lead author on the study. Smyth, now an associate professor at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, was at The New School, New York at the time. They put together a team of researchers to begin tracking the spread of coronavirus via New York City's wastewater. Since then, Dennehy, a co-corresponding author on the study, found some interesting results. When he shared some of the more unusual results during a March 2021 episode of Vincent Racaniello's podcast "This Week in Virology," a popular podcast with virologists nationwide, Johnson happened to be listening.

"The mutations that we were observing in our sample weren't typical among any of the known sequences circulating at that time," Dennehy said.

Ironically, Johnson was simultaneously reaching out to various researchers across the United States who were doing similar work with wastewater after he observed some unusual results from his analysis of wastewater in some of his samples from the greater St. Louis area. On the podcast, he heard Dennehy describe their targeted approach, which happened to be the same method MU was using to test samples of wastewater for SARS-CoV-2 in Missouri, but with one key differenceMU was analyzing a larger region of the virus genome for possible mutations. Within a week, Johnson had samples of NYC wastewater delivered to MU for further analysis.

"When we first started with the samples from New York City, I was looking to see if they had the same virus sequences that I saw in some of my samples from St. Louis," Johnson said. "They were different, but all of them had similar mutations in common at one particular location on the virusQ498. What's amazing is that in most of the samples from New York City, the Q in Q498 had turned into a Y, or glutamine into tyrosine. If you look at the database, there was not, and continues to not be, a human patient who has had that mutation."

Marc Johnson works in his lab at the Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center on the University of Missouri campus. Credit: University of Missouri

Dennehy believes a possible explanation could be a biological process called convergent evolution.

"An animal in Missouri is not going to mix with the same type of animal in New York City," Dennehy said. "Therefore, the evolution of the virus in each geographic area is independent of each other, but because it's the same animal, the virus looks the same in both places. For instance, we think conditions in South Africa that gave rise to the Omicron variant are the same conditions in New York City that gave rise to our cryptic variants. As a biologist, I thought the spread of delta was menacing, but the speed in which Omicron took over New York City is on another level."

Understanding the broader impact

Smyth joined the research team in part due to her passion for taking science from inside a laboratory to showing how it can be applied through a broader, real-world impact. A proud Irish immigrant, she transitioned from studying the basics of biology early in her career to now pursuing her passion by engaging her students in real-world health issues, such as antibiotic resistance, and tracking coronavirus in wastewater.

"I'm interested in how we can take what we know and apply it to the real world where it is needed the most," said Smyth, who is also the deputy director for the National Center for Science and Civic Engagement. "Wastewater surveillance is really important in the context of community-based, public health measures where we have the ability to communicate health information at a level where decisions, practices and interventions can be implemented. Wastewater surveillance is fast, inexpensive and unbiased, and for that reason it has the ability to be implemented depending on resource availability in a variety of contexts, especially in areas with limited resources such as low testing and vaccine availability."

Explore further Further increase in coronavirus concentrations found in wastewater

More information: Davida S. Smyth et al, Tracking cryptic SARS-CoV-2 lineages detected in NYC wastewater, Nature Communications (2022). Journal information: Nature Communications Davida S. Smyth et al, Tracking cryptic SARS-CoV-2 lineages detected in NYC wastewater,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28246-3
Clarence E. Bisbee was one of the first photographers in Twin Falls when he moved here in 1906 from his home state of Nebraska. But soon, more photographers came to shoot the new town and irrigation tract.

Louisiana native Leah Amos arrived in Twin Falls shortly after Bisbee and partnered with photographer Milton Helm in 1907. Helm left Twin Falls in 1908 to open a studio in Mountain Home.

Amos continued her business at her studio above the towns first post office at Nibley-Channel Lumber Co.  now Floyd Lilly Co.  at Idaho Street and Third Avenue South.

Like Bisbee, she photographed scenic views of the Magic Valley but made most of her money on portraits. At 30 years old, she cleverly promoted her business with a self-portrait in an advertisement that read, Pictures? Heres mine. Let me take yours.

In October 1910, Amos announced in the Twin Falls Weekly News that she had hired Miss Lolo Read, formerly of Chicago, as the retouching expert for the business.

In his book Camera Eye on Idaho, Idaho historian Arthur A. Hart wrote that photographer William A. Flower was listed as the Amos Studio business manager in 1912. Flower eventually took over the business.

Margaret Crosby was listed as the only other female photographer in Twin Falls in the 1910 census.

Hidden History: Twin Falls approves $40,000 sewer system to drain into Rock Creek Founded in 1904, Twin Falls matured into a dynamic village within a few short years. By 1906, the young town full of businesses, homes and outhouses was in need of a city sewer system.

Hidden History: Early Twin Falls a lonely place No headstone adorns Peter A. Johnsons grave and only a vague description of its location is known. Johnson died alone in 1909 in Twin Falls.

Hidden History: Some at Hunt Camp enjoyed travel privileges Some Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II at the Minidoka Relocation Camp, now the Minidoka National Historic Site, were allowed to leave the camp for work or education.
As Denison begins a year long Sesquicentennial birthday celebration, the city will host the 15th annual Howard Caylor Trout Derby on Saturday at Waterloo Lake Park Pond.

Beginning as far back as 1870, anglers across the U.S. have been able to see lots of rainbows in this country, even if they arent exactly the kind that good old Noah saw after he exited his big boat following a 40-day rainstorm.

Instead, these rainbows are fish, as in rainbow trout, which have a native historical range from eastern Russia, through southern Alaska, down the western Pacific coastal regions of North America, and bleeding over into portions of Idaho.

But while this colorful coldwater fish was found in portions of our continent prior to the appearance of the railroad system, it didnt take long after the fabled Iron Horses began to rumble westward for dreams of fish stocking to happen as travel opened up from coast to coast. Before long, almost as soon as the MKT railroad began to dream of a stopping place on the Texas side of the Red River, trout were on the move.

By 1870, a trout hatchery had been built on San Leandro Creek near San Francisco Bay and rainbows were in production a year later. Fish from this hatchery began to be shipped out of state, arriving in Caledonia, New York in 1875 and Northville, Michigan in 1876 according to Wikipedia.

When the first federal fish hatchery was established on Campbell Creek, a tributary of the McCloud River in California, the rest was history and the rainbow trout was destined for coldwater fishing spots all across America.

Eventually, that would even mean the city of Denison, although the closest that a trout probably got to D-Town in 1872 when the city was founded 150 years ago was in a railroad car somewhere to the north as it traversed from one side of the nation to the other.

But that was then, and this is now, and thanks to the cold water that Old Man Winter provides every December, January, and February, rainbow trout now find a seasonal home in the land of the Yellow Jackets, even if its a bit temporary.

While striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and even blue catfish occupy the angling dreams of most local anglers throughout the year, the New Year always brings dreams of rainbows, even if a little ice and/or snow has to be fought to wet a line.

Story continues

That wont be the case this Saturday morning when Denison  which is observing its Sesquicentennial Celebration this year  continues with a calendar full of exciting activities including the 15th Annual Howard Caylor Trout Derby.

It might be a little chilly when the morning starts, but more than 1,200 stocked rainbow trout  part of the 5,136 trout being stocked in the pond this winter by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department  begin to pull hooks down as they try to swipe baits ranging from earthworms to corn nuggets to marshmallows to PowerBait to small lures to name just a few piscatorial temptations.

Scheduled to be held once again at D-Towns Waterloo Lake Park Pond, the derby will be held Saturday, Jan. 8, from 9-11:30 a.m. according to Andrew Means of the Denison Parks and Recreation Department.

The event, which will actually be held for the 27th time overall, will mark the 15th year since the derby was renamed for the late Howard Caylor, a Parks and Rec maintenance foreman who lost his life on the job earlier this century.

As noted here before, in addition to being a perfect way to remember a man who loved Denison's unique trout derbies, its also a chance for adults ages 17 years and older to find some wintertime fishing fun when little else is biting in the angling world.

The cost to enter is $7 for Denison residents and $10 for non-residents. The first 50 registrants receive a free cap, food and drink is available, door prizes will be given out, and all state and local fishing regulations apply.

Theres also the usual array of derby prizes, including awards for the winners of the casting contest as well as cash prizes for those winning several categories being held throughout the derby. Usually, those involve catching some of the tagged and/or golden trout that are sometimes stocked, as well as the biggest trout, the smallest trout, and the heaviest stringer of trout.

Early registration continues, and if there is enough space available and the derby roster doesn't fill out, there may also be some registration on the morning of the event.

To register and get more information about the event, please visit the Denison Parks and Rec website page at www.CityofDenison.com/ParksRec or call the city offices today (during business hours) at 903-465-2720, extension 2034.

It's going to be a big year of celebration in Denison, and that includes the first rainbow sightings of the year. Get in line at Waterloo tomorrow, wet a hook for the first time in 2022, and see if you can't catch the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. Good luck!

This article originally appeared on Herald Democrat: Denison's 15th annual Howard Caylor Trout Derby on this weekend


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Yerevan market explosion criminal proceedings: 1 of 3 arrested accused is released

Fly Arna receives its second Airbus A320 aircraft

Armenia defense ministry dismisses Azerbaijan MOD statement disseminated a while ago

MOD: Azerbaijan army fires at Armenia combat positions, at around 7:40am

Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan stalls repatriation of Armenian POWs

Newspaper: Armenia PM, parliament majority faction have closed discussion day after military operations

PM Pashinyan at UN, addresses Azerbaijan president: Could you show map of Armenia that you recognize?

PM Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan intends to seize new territories from Armenia

Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

FM addresses at Ancient Civilizations Forum: Armenian cultural heritage is being destroyed by Azerbaijan

NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

PM: Georgia ready to become venue for Armenia-Azerbaijan dialogue

Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

Bloomberg: UK intends to sign agreement on LNG supplies from U.S. for up to 20 years

China's former justice minister sentenced to death

Jermuk: Changes in Jermuk resort town after Azerbaijani attack (photo report)

Jermuk-Yerevan-Jermuk shuttle service already operating

Armenian Genocide Memorials Memory Ally area to be expanded

Biden to Pashinyan: We remain committed to promote peaceful resolution to conflict, including for people of Karabakh

Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

Aggression-affected IDPs from Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor to be provided with financial assistance

Peskov declines to comment on his son's refusal to report to military registration and enlistment office

Belgian parliamentary delegation visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

Peskov comments on reports of agitation at airports and checkpoints

Russia air carrier to conduct additional flights to Armenia, Turkey

Kazakhstan parliament passes law to exclude Day of First President from state holidays

US Congressman Schiff: These atrocities will continue until international community condemns Aliyev

Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

Senator: the U.S. must stop providing security assistance to Azerbaijan

Armenia, Finland FMs discuss Karabakh conflict settlement process

CSTO Secretary General, Armenia army chief discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

Armenia FM to Red Cross president: Azerbaijan crimes impunity makes aggressor more reckless (PHOTOS)

Greece politician condemns Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

Iran, Russia and China to hold joint naval drills

Iran army chief: We will not allow changes in borders in region

Parliament speaker: We expect our Belgian colleagues to continue efforts for Armenian POWs return from Azerbaijan

Karabakh FM discusses Artsakh foreign policy with group of US Congress members, senators

Relatives of those who died and those who were injured in Yerevan market explosion to get one-time financial aid

Copper rises in price

Truss says Russia is not threatened by anyone

Crime report is sent to Armenia Prosecutor General regarding recent harassment toward reporters in parliament

Armenia FM to International Crisis Group head: Azerbaijan trying to achieve its maximalist demands by using force

Gold prices fall below $1670 per ounce

Borrell announces new sanctions on Russia because of referendums

Oil prices move to some growth

Blinken says US will continue to support Ukraine

Newspaper: Armenia 3 ex-presidents, Catholicos to meet soon

Armenia FM in New York, meets with UN Secretary General special adviser on genocide prevention

Russian soldiers are exchanged with 215 Ukrainian POWs

Newspaper: PM urges political teammates not to do anything drastic regarding topic of Armenia leaving CSTO

Bulgaria gets closer to buying the second batch of eight new F-16s

Armenia FM to Sweden counterpart: International community must restrain Azerbaijan military aggression

FM briefs Nicaragua colleague on consequences of Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

2 of 3 injured in Yerevan market damaged building collapse discharged from hospital

Britain decides to revise its defense and security plan

Iranian parliament says border violation due to aggravation between Armenia and Azerbaijan unacceptable

Pashinyan leaves for New York

Biden not to restrict imports of neodymium magnets from China

No threat to life of serviceman wounded by Azerbaijani Armed Forces shelling

EU's desire for independence from Russian gas will lead to slowdown of economy, rising inflation and fall of euro

Biden to release 10 million barrels of oil ahead of EU ban on Russian oil
DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Equipment Leasing Software Market" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Global Equipment Leasing Software Market is estimated to be USD 694.25 Mn in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 1,356.18 Mn by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 14.33%.



Key factors such as growing demand for different lease products and a constant need to track equipment leasing operations such as disbursement schedules and vetting checks are boosting market demand for the equipment leasing software market. Similarly, changes in accounting practices with GAAP and BASEL norms and the increasing adherence to compliance checks have further supported the market growth.



However, factors such as the high cost of the software and the lower likelihood of small-scale companies utilizing this software have restrained the market growth.

Company Profiles

Some of the key companies operating in the market are Accurate Leasing Ltd, Asset Panda, Constellation Financing Systems, International Decision Systems Group, NETSOL Technologies, Odessa Technologies Inc., Q2 Software, Inc., Soft4Leasing, Sopra Steria Group SA, White Clarke Group Limited, etc.



Countries Studied

America ( Argentina , Brazil , Canada , Chile , Colombia , Mexico , Peru , United States , Rest of Americas)

, , , , , , , , Rest of Americas) Europe ( Austria , Belgium , Denmark , Finland , France , Germany , Italy , Netherlands , Norway , Poland , Russia , Spain , Sweden , Switzerland , United Kingdom , Rest of Europe )

( , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Rest of ) Middle-East and Africa ( Egypt , Israel , Qatar , Saudi Arabia , South Africa , United Arab Emirates , Rest of MEA)

and ( , , , , , , Rest of MEA) Asia-Pacific ( Australia , Bangladesh , China , India , Indonesia , Japan , Malaysia , Philippines , Singapore , South Korea , Sri Lanka , Thailand , Taiwan , Rest of Asia-Pacific )

Competitive Quadrant

The report includes a Competitive Quadrant, a proprietary tool to analyze and evaluate the position of companies based on their Industry Position score and Market Performance score. The tool uses various factors for categorizing the players into four categories. Some of these factors considered for analysis are financial performance over the last 3 years, growth strategies, innovation score, new product launches, investments, growth in market share, etc.



Why buy this report?

The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the Global Equipment Leasing Software Market. The report includes in-depth qualitative analysis, verifiable data from authentic sources, and projections about market size. The projections are calculated using proven research methodologies.

The report has been compiled through extensive primary and secondary research. The primary research is done through interviews, surveys, and observation of renowned personnel in the industry.

The report includes an in-depth market analysis using Porter's 5 forces model and the Ansoff Matrix. In addition, the impact of Covid-19 on the market is also featured in the report.

The report also includes the regulatory scenario in the industry, which will help you make a well-informed decision. The report discusses major regulatory bodies and major rules and regulations imposed on this sector across various geographies.

The report also contains the competitive analysis using Positioning Quadrants, the analyst's Proprietary competitive positioning tool.

Key Topics Covered:



1 Report Description

2 Research Methodology



3 Executive Summary

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Market Size and Segmentation

3.3 Market Outlook



4 Market Influencers

4.1 Drivers

4.1.1 Growing Demand for Lease Products

4.1.2 Constant Need for Tracking Equipment Leasing Operations

4.1.3 Growing Changes in Accounting Practices and Compliance Adherence

4.2 Restraints

4.2.1 High Cost of The Software

4.2.2 Companies Operating with Fewer Processes and Tight Budgets

4.3 Opportunities

4.3.1 Use of Big Data Applications in Equipment Leasing

4.3.2 Integration with CMMS and Enterprise Asset Management Software

4.4 Challenges

4.4.1 Complex Leasing Structures



5 Market Analysis

5.1 Regulatory Scenario

5.2 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

5.3 Impact of COVID-19

5.4 Ansoff Matrix Analysis



6 Global Equipment Leasing Software Market, By Equipment Type

6.1 Introduction

6.2 Agriculture

6.3 Construction

6.4 Manufacturing & Warehouse Tools

6.5 Medical & Biotechnology

6.6 Office Furniture, IT Hardware & Software

6.7 Transportation



7 Global Equipment Leasing Software Market, By Deployment

7.1 Introduction

7.2 On-Cloud

7.3 On-Premise

7.4 Global Equipment Leasing Software Market, By End User

7.5 Introduction

7.6 Large Enterprises

7.7 SMEs



8 Global Equipment Leasing Software Market, By by Sales Channel

8.1 Introduction

8.2 Manufacturer/Distributor/Service Provider

8.3 Aftermarket



9 Global Equipment Leasing Software Market, By Geography

9.1 Introduction

9.2 America

9.2.1 Argentina

9.2.2 Brazil

9.2.3 Canada

9.2.4 Chile

9.2.5 Colombia

9.2.6 Mexico

9.2.7 Peru

9.2.8 United States

9.2.9 Rest of Americas

9.3 Europe

9.3.1 Austria

9.3.2 Belgium

9.3.3 Denmark

9.3.4 Finland

9.3.5 France

9.3.6 Germany

9.3.7 Italy

9.3.8 Netherlands

9.3.9 Norway

9.3.10 Poland

9.3.11 Russia

9.3.12 Spain

9.3.13 Sweden

9.3.14 Switzerland

9.3.15 United Kingdom

9.3.16 Rest of Europe

9.4 Middle East and Africa

9.4.1 Egypt

9.4.2 Israel

9.4.3 Qatar

9.4.4 Saudi Arabia

9.4.5 South Africa

9.4.6 United Arab Emirates

9.4.7 Rest of MEA

9.5 Asia-Pacific

9.5.1 Australia

9.5.2 Bangladesh

9.5.3 China

9.5.4 India

9.5.5 Indonesia

9.5.6 Japan

9.5.7 Malaysia

9.5.8 Philippines

9.5.9 Singapore

9.5.10 South Korea

9.5.11 Sri Lanka

9.5.12 Thailand

9.5.13 Taiwan

9.5.14 Rest of Asia-Pacific



10 Competitive Landscape

10.1 Competitive Quadrant

10.2 Market Share Analysis

10.3 Strategic Initiatives

10.3.1 M&A and Investments

10.3.2 Partnerships and Collaborations

10.3.3 Product Developments and Improvements



11 Company Profiles

11.1 LeaseWave

11.2 Cassiopae (Sopra Steria)

11.3 Constellations

11.4 Asset Panda

11.5 Visual Lease

11.6 IMNAT Software (Nakisa, Inc)

11.7 VTS

11.8 Soft4Leasing

11.9 Wells Fargo

11.10 Accruent (Fortive)

11.11 Nomos One

11.12 Dominion Leasing Software (Banyan Software, Inc.)

11.13 NETSOL Technologies

11.14 WHITE CLARKE GROUP LIMITED

11.15 Odessa Technologies Inc.

11.16 Q2 Software, Inc.

11.17 Sopra Steria Group SA

11.18 International Decision Systems Group (Thoma Bravo)

11.19 Cloud Lending Solutions (Q2 Holdings)

11.20 LTI Technology Solutions

11.21 IFS Technology Solutions



12 Appendix



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/44v4ze

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets
Daniel Andrews has hinted Victoria's hated mask mandate could remain indefinitely as Covid still remains 'challenging' for the state to manage, despite infection rates tumbling in the last month.

Asked whether the rule would finally be dropped, the Victorian premier said it would not change 'any time soon' as Omicron was a 'wildly infectious variant and we are being guided by safety, which has never been more important than it is right now'.

With the restriction to wear masks indoors unlikely to be eased for some time, it means anyone breaking the rule will continue to face a crippling $21,909 fine for breaching the pandemic order.

Victorians are still living under vaccine mandates, meaning only those who are double-jabbed can go to bars, restaurants or retail venues.

Mr Andrews, who has plunged Melbourne into six lockdowns, extended his controversial pandemic laws last month until at least April - allowing him to announce a health crisis at any time and assume unprecedented powers.

The Victorian Premier is seeking to impose indefinite restrictions despite the number of active Covid cases in the state having dropped by 74 per cent in the past two weeks, leaving just 66,648 statewide on Wednesday.

Victorian Premier Dan Andrews (pictured on Thursday) said Covid was still 'very challenging' for the state and has already extended a pandemic declaration for another three months

Dan Andrews controversial new laws give the premier power to declare a pandemic indefinitely even if there are no cases of the virus (pictured, shoppers in Melbourne)

Mr Andrews justified ongoing restrictions by saying there was 'incredible pressure on our health system right now despite the fact the numbers are coming down'.

However the number of Covid cases in hospital had dropped by 39 per cent since the peak on January 17 and are lower now than they were in October before the Omicron wave.

If a new variant of Covid arises, the state government can announce pandemic orders 'by decree' to confine Victorians in their homes once again.

He also hinted again that Victoria's definition of fully-vaccinated could soon be extended to mean three doses, saying 'it's becoming increasingly obvious that two doses are not enough'.

The continuing rules mean a person can be fined up to $21,909 for a breach of an order.

This could include not wearing a mask, breaking a movement limit, attending an illegal protest or a gathering, refusing to get tested or failing to show ID.

Indoor mask rules could likely stay around with another surge in Omicron likely as the weather cools (pictured, shoppers in Melbourne)

Businesses can be fined up to $109,044 for breaking rules which may include failing to make sure customers check-in or show proof of vaccine status.

In addition, there is a new aggravated offence for breaches that 'cause a serious risk to the health of another individual'.

These can be punished with a $90,870 fine and two years in jail. An example given in the bill is someone going to work when they are infectious and should be isolating.

Businesses can also be guilty of an aggravated offence, with a maximum fine of $454,350 if, for example, they refuse to obey a lockdown and encourage customers to also flout the rules.

It comes as Australia's chief medical officer Paul Kelly said there would likely be another wave of Covid this winter.

'Every June since 2020 there has been a wave of Covid in Australia and other southern hemisphere countries.'

What are the fines in Daniel Andrews' controversial law? $21,909: This fine is for breaching a pandemic order such as not wearing a mask, breaking a movement limit, attending an illegal protest or a gathering, refusing to get tested or failing to show ID. $90,870: This fine is for an aggravated offence for breaches that 'cause a serious risk to the health of another individual' such as going to work when infectious. $109,044: This fine is for businesses breaking rules which may include failing to make sure customers check-in or show proof of vaccine status. $454,350: This fine is for an 'aggravated' offence by a business such as encouraging customers to flout lockdown rules . Advertisement

Professor Kelly said the coming winter would also bring with it the additional risk of rising flu cases.

Instances of the flu have largely fallen in Australia since 2020 in the wake of the pandemic, following lockdown measures being enacted during traditional flu seasons in populous states.

On January 12, Mr Andrews used his new legal powers to extend Victoria's pandemic declaration for another three months - allowing him to extend rules such as mask wearing.

'Extending the pandemic declaration ensures we are able to put the measures in place to slow the rate of transmission and protect the community's health and our health system,' Mr Andrews previously said.

The controversial laws give the premier power to declare a pandemic indefinitely even if there are no cases of the virus.

If a new variant of Covid arises, the state government could announce pandemic orders 'by decree' to confine Victorians in their houses once again.

With another winter surge in cases the declaration could likely be extended further than the three months.

Australia's Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly (pictured) on Wednesday warned of a dual threat of Omicron and the flu during winter

Mr Andrews also said 'no one's rushing' the return of less urgent elective surgery and the state government was still consulting with the industry.

'We think it is possible to resume some services in a staggered way,' the premier told reporters on Wednesday.

'We'll make the announcements when we've listened, when we've got all that feedback and we have determined how it is we will recommence those services. Nothing will be done that isn't safe.'

A pause on elective surgery was established earlier this month in Victoria to relieve pressure on the system.

In a letter to doctors on Tuesday, Ramsay Health Care Victorian manager Austin Wills said the private provider was given advice the state's pause on most elective surgery would soon be repealed.

'At this point, (the Department of Health) have indicated that restrictions will be revised from urgent only to 50 per cent of allocated lists from the middle of next week,' he wrote.

'We expect to receive formal confirmation of this change by the end of this week.'
Ray Elliott is an author and former high school teacher who lives in rural Urbana. He can be reached at rayelliott23@att.net.
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - CuePath Innovation, a provider of medication adherence solutions for the home healthcare market, announced today that it launched its second-generation suite of medication adherence monitoring products for remote patient care. The release coincides with the company's critical care initiative with Wellness Pharmacy Group, to provide medication monitoring and adherence support for patients with complex regimens. The program's goal is to ensure optimal medication adherence for these patients with complex medical conditions, that includes renal and transplant patients.

In the U.S. medication adherence packaging market, blister cards represent the dominant format, with 41.6% of the market. Blister cards have more than double the market share of the other formats. The U.S. blister card packaging market is growing at 7.15% per year, according to Daedal Research (The U.S. Medication Adherence Packaging Market, July 2020). CuePath's CueSticker product is applied to a blister card during the pharmacy's medication dispensing process to enable real-time adherence monitoring and collection of insightful patient data. It is compatible with the popular brands of multi-dose blister cards, from manufactures including Jones Healthcare and Dispill.

CuePath's Generation II CueStickers include several improvements, including integration of an IoT device into the CueSticker, integrated diagnostic, improved durability, and improved sensor accuracy.

CuePath's medication monitoring system enables Wellness Pharmacies to identify the critical care patients that have missed scheduled doses of medication and need timely support. CuePath's medication adherence monitoring is a virtual service that provides pharmacists and healthcare professionals with unique insights into patients' medication-taking trends.

Zahid Merali, principal at Wellness Pharmacy Group stated, "CuePath's Generation II CueSticker was simple and easy for us to integrate into the dispensing process for our complex care patients." Merali continued, "It provides our customers with a better experience because they really feel like we are looking after them, that our service helps them to feel more in control of their treatment or recovery experience."

"We are proud to team with the Wellness Pharmacy Group for this program," said Ken Piaggio, CuePath CEO. "As we have heard from their pharmacists, the CuePath product allows the pharmacy greater insight into which vulnerable patients may require extra care and attention to ensure they are taking their medications as prescribed. We provide insights that inform the pharmacist or home care provider wishing to respond a patient's unique needs," Piaggio continued.

About Wellness Pharmacy Group

Wellness Pharmacy Group is a privately owned, independent business consisting of 12 well-established pharmacies in the Metro Vancouver. It has grown from modest foundations into an operation that employs more than 100 people and continues to grow steadily. This growth is attributed to unwavering dedication to exceeding the needs of our community. Wellness prides itself on our commitment to quality patient care, fiscal responsibility, and progressive vision and growth.

https://www.wellpharmacy.com

About CuePath

CuePath Innovation is a Canadian digital health company with a mission to improve the quality of life and standard of care for people with multiple medications being cared for at home. We provide peace of mind to caregivers and families through better short-term medication management and identify trends that encourage earlier intervention from care providers and pharmacists. Our CueCare medication adherence solution is available through select home care agencies and pharmacies around North America. For more information, inquire at [email protected].

www.cuepath.com

SOURCE CuePath Innovation
A former top Government scientific adviser today said the world needs vaccines that are better at stopping Covid transmission to truly end the pandemic.

Sir Jeremy Farrar, a former SAGE member, said the current jabs 'must be celebrated' for severing the link between cases and hospitalisations and deaths.

But he warned they were not the 'long-term solution' to Covid because the shots are becoming increasingly weaker at preventing infections with each new variant.

The Wellcome Trust director called for more research to develop jabs capable of giving almost complete immunity  like those for smallpox, measles and rubella.

Sir Jeremy  who dramatically quit SAGE last year after a row about lifting mask mandates  admitted it was a 'long shot'.

Vaccine manufacturers are already working on jabs that target multiple variants, and a universal jab that targets Covid alongside other seasonal coronaviruses.

But there is no guarantee that these jabs will ever make it to production  let alone be able to outright stop infections.

Sir Jeremy Farrar, a former top Government scientific adviser, called for the development of vaccines that were better able to block transmission of Covid

The current crop of jabs 'must be celebrated' he said for severing the link between surging cases and hospitalisations and deaths. But new jabs are also needed, he added

Speaking during a lecture at the Royal Society of Medicine (RSM), he said: The current vaccines we have  the mRNA or adeno approaches  must be celebrated.

'They have been absolutely phenomenal in terms of safety, speed of development, and ability to stop you getting ill and dying. And the regulators who have approved them deserve enormous credit for how they have handled this.

Daily Covid infections bounced back 22% to nearly 200,000 last week Britain's Covid cases have bounced back to nearly 200,000 a day, according to a symptom-tracking study whose lead scientist warned the UK may be 'preempting the end of the Covid pandemic'. King College London scientists estimate there were 195,000 people with symptomatic Covid every day as of January 31, up 22 per cent on the 159,000 recorded the week before. Their estimates are different from the daily Covid numbers, which have daily cases hovering at around 90,000 at the moment. The increase in symptomatic cases is now being seen in all age groups, although the rise was less steep in over-55s and slowest in the most vulnerable over-75 group. It means it is no longer just unvaccinated primary school children driving the rise  although under-18s still make up more than 80,000 daily cases. Professor Tim Spector, the epidemiologist behind the study, warned it is 'much too early' to call the end of the pandemic, with infections expected to stay at high levels until warm weather returns in spring. But he added it was 'encouraging' that hospitalisations and deaths are still coming down because of Omicron's lack of severity. Even with high infection levels, rates of severe have continued to fall according to official statistics. Advertisement

'However, I dont think these vaccines are going to be a long term solution to Covid.

'We need to develop and research a vaccine, I hope, that will block transmission of the virus. (But) we don't have that immunity to coronaviruses generally, so this is a long shot.

'(We need one that is) easy to administer, cheaper, able to be administer around the world, gives sterilising immunity so prevents transmission, and stops us getting seriously ill.'

When the pandemic began, scientists were unsure whether a Covid vaccine could even be made  with some suggesting it could take 10 years to come up with a jab.

But by the autumn of 2020 it had become clear that vaccines would offer a way out of the pandemic  with early trial results much better than hoped.

The World Health Organization said a jab that provided 50 per cent protection against severe illness would be good enough.

But two doses of Pfizer or Moderna's vaccines were shown to slash the risk by 95 per cent, shattering all expectations.

They were slightly less good, however, at cutting transmission. And variants have become steadily better at breaking through this protection.

The jabs were designed to target the spike protein on the original Covid strain  which it uses to invade cells.

But this has since turned out to be a hotspot for mutations, becoming increasingly more difficult for the immunity of vaccinated people to stop an infection.

Anti-vaxxers have leapt on the weakening of protection against infection as a reason not to get the jabs, pointing to the success of older jabs against diseases like smallpox.

Meanwhile, speaking at the RSM lecture, Sir Farrar said he was 'in favour' of dumping most restrictions in the UK but added that masks should remain.

Boris Johnson lifted 'Plan B' restrictions last month  doing away with work from home guidance, vaccine passports and face masks.

And he has signalled his intentions to drop all remaining Covid laws  like mandatory isolation of positive cases  by the spring.

Sir Jeremy said: 'I was in favour of starting to lift restrictions but I would be in favour of continuing mask wearing on public transport and in enclosed spaces.

'And I would be pushing ever harder to ensure people are vaccinated and get their booster doses.'

He added: 'I would have been a little bit more cautious, I would have lifted restrictions, yes, but I would have kept mask wearing in place.'

Sir Jeremy warned the UK was at risk of moving too fast and returning to normal, taking its eye off the ball in case new variants emerged.

He said: 'My concern is there will be too fast a shift to saying it is all over and we will lose the humility of accepting we are only two years into a novel pathogen when there is still a huge amount of uncertainty.

And while we may base policy decisions on one scenario  that Omicron is a transition to endemicity, I would guess that is the most likely scenario and I would guess it has between a 40 to 50 per cent of being true.

But there are other scenarios and my worry is in the push to move on from this we ignore those other scenarios that are less rosy.

Britain has already ordered another 114million Covid jabs due to arrive this year and the next in a mission to 'future-proof' its jabbing drive.

The deal includes 54million Pfizer jabs and 60million Moderna shots, with the option for these to be modified to target future variants if needed.

Many vaccine manufacturers are already working on variant-targeting shots, including jabs specifically tweaked to fight off Omicron.

There is also work underway on a universal Covid vaccine  that could fight off all current and future variants alongside seasonal coronaviruses.
National Nuclear Generating Company Energoatom and the Organization of the Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI) signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate in the field of nuclear energy and related technologies, the company has said.

According to a posting on the Energoatom website on Thursday, the document was signed by Energoatom Acting President Petro Kotin and OCNI President Ron Oberth on February 2.

"Partnership with OCNI opens up new opportunities for our cooperation with Canadian companies in the most promising areas of nuclear energy related to ensuring reliable nuclear generation, nuclear research and development, innovation and concern for the environment and people," Kotin said.

According to Oberth, OCNI looks forward to working closely with colleagues in Ukraine on projects that support global initiatives to achieve Net Zero by 2050 and improve the health of people around the world.

The memorandum provides for several areas of cooperation, including the decommissioning of nuclear installations, the production of hydrogen using nuclear energy and the development of large data processing centers at nuclear power plants.

"The memorandum will encourage cooperation between Canadian and Ukrainian nuclear research institutes and universities in the field of nuclear research, development and nuclear education," Energoatom said.

OCNI is an association of more than 240 Canadian nuclear industry suppliers whose companies design reactors, manufacture major equipment and components, and provide engineering services and support for CANDU nuclear power plants in Canada and CANDU and light water reactors in other markets.
As 2022 kicks off, guest expectations are skyrocketing while hospitality teams operate at all-time low capacities. Front desk teams across all service levels and geographies are increasingly adopting guest messaging: connecting digitally with guests via text or online channels to answer common questions, address maintenance requests, and run contactless check-ins. Studies are showing that hotel brands using guest messaging have higher satisfaction ratings, increased bookings, and higher team efficiency.

Heres a rundown.

Guest messaging, in its simplest form, is digital messaging between customers and businesses. It may take the form of a text message or via channels such as Facebook Messenger to answer a common question, welcome a guest, or address a maintenance request.

From a hospitality side, teams can manage multiple channels and send messages to guests from one platform rather than field a dozen calls, or deal with a growing line at the front desk. From a guest perspective, it offers contactless check-in, answers to questions, and ease of access.

The guest messaging trend has grown significantly during the pandemic. Not only does it span the full spectrum of hotel service levels from luxury to economy, but its showing up in other service-driven industries such as airports, shopping centers, and the healthcare industry.

What does it look like?

Most often, guest messaging takes the form of a desktop platform for businesses to message customers and respond to requests. From there, teams can set up pre-programmed messages for common questions, create flows for check-ins, and address maintenance issues by connecting internally with staff.

The top messaging solutions offer a variety of channels that help to meet guests on their preferred channels. Google Business Messaging (GBM) and Apple Business Chat (ABC) help consumers find business before booking; SMS is good for in-stay and in-the-moment communication, and WhatsApp is increasingly popular for international guests. Team should also look for a solution that can offer PMS integrations with hotel management systems such as Quore, Opera, and Onq, increasing efficiency by notifying backup teams and managers when messages go unseen.

An increasingly digital world

It goes without saying that the world was turned upside down by the pandemic mass understaffing in service industries, social distancing, lockdowns  but one of the most noticeable changes was an increase in digitization.

A study conducted by the University of Zurich in Switzerland observed a vast increase in digital communication related to the COVID-19 pandemic, with 46% of study participants using text messaging more often. Consumers are attached more-than-ever to their mobile devices, and guest messaging is a way for the hospitality industry to keep up.

In fact, an article from Campaign Monitor states that open rates from SMS messaging are as high as 98%, compared to 20% for emails. This makes text messaging an increasingly popular way to connect with guests.

Precautions to stay safe are also still at the forefront of a user experience in hospitality, and guest messaging allows consumers to converse with hoteliers in a contactless manner  no trips to the front desk or waiting in line to check in or out.

Another reason why hospitality teams might utilize guest messaging is the access to a guests opinion before they review their stay. For instance, if there's a maintenance issue during their stint at a property, guests can reach out directly to the front desk, who can then connect with their staff internally and address the issue before the guest leaves a bad Tripadvisor review complaining about a leaky toilet.

Does it make a difference?

Data from top hotel brands shows that guest messaging is here to stay.

Groups like Driftwood Hotels show an increase in overall satisfaction across properties, higher 5 star reviews on sites like Tripadvisor, and lower negative reviews. Using digital messaging also reportedly increases efficiency on understaffed teams and helps to automate processes and increase bookings.

Tom McGurran

Senior Vice President and Manager

Kipsu, Inc
Six-year-old schoolboy Rikki Neave

The best friend of murdered schoolboy Rikki Neave told police the six-year-old had wanted to run away days before his disappearance, a court heard.

The body of six-year-old Rikki was found in the woods in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, in November 1994 after he was strangled, stripped naked and left in a 'star pose'.

James Watson, who would have been 13 at the time, is now 40 and on trial for Rikki's murder at the Old Bailey after sophisticated technology found a 'definitive match' between his DNA profile and samples taken from Rikki's clothing in 2015.

The court heard today that Mark Moss, who would often walk home from school with his friend Rikki, spoke to police on 1 December 1994, three days after the tragic death, telling officers that they were 'like brothers'.

Reading out an official summary of that conversation, Prosecutor John Price QC said: 'He [Mr Moss] said that Rikki told him, on he believes Friday [25 November], that he was going to run away because he hated school and didn't want to go.'

The witness, giving evidence today via video-link from Peterborough police station, could not remember any 'further detail', the court was told.

Jenni Dempster QC, defending, asked him: 'Did you ever see Ruth Neave walking Rikki to school?'

'No,' said Mr Moss.

The body of six-year-old Rikki was found in the woods in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, in November 1994 after he was strangled, stripped naked and left in a 'star pose'

Ms Dempster continued: 'Did you know from what you saw... whether he was ever having to run around with drugs for his mother?'

Rikki's old friend could not remember ever seeing anything himself.

Mr Moss said: 'He would sit in the bushes upset. My mum would see him shivering in the bushes and say come in. She wouldn't get involved in his mum's business.'

Mr Moss, who lived in Rotherby Grove on the Welland Estate, recalled the atmosphere in the wake of Rikki's death, saying: 'There was a lot of attention around it. There were a lot of flowers. It touched a lot of people.'

Watson, of no fixed address, denies murdering Rikki between 28 and 29 November 1994.

The trial continues.
Mohammed Mustaph Yussif and the stolen Toyota Camry

03.02.2022 LISTEN

Mohammed Mustapha Yussif, who was sentenced to 15years in prison with three others has been arranged before the Tamale Circuit Court in connection with another alleged car snatching incident in Tamale in the Northern region.

The accused person has been accused of stealing a Toyota Camry Spider with registration number GX6923-20, iPhone, and other properties on August 20, 2021, from one Muniru Abdul Waris at Gbayamli, a suburb of Tamale.

The four accused persons are Mahama Nashiru alias Mohammed, Mohammed Mustapha Yussif, Ibrahim Issah, Mohammed Alhassan.

They have been charged with conspiracy to rob, robbery, possession of firearms and ammunition without lawful authority, and possession of police and military accoutrements. However, they have pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The case has been adjourned to February 17, 2022.

Meanwhile, the police have launched a manhunt for four other accomplices in the case who are currently at large.

It will be recalled that the Tamale Circuit Court presided by His Honor Alexandra Oworae, sentenced five accused persons to 15 years each in prison for snatching a Toyota Camry car at Banvum, a suburb of Tamale in the Northern region.

The convicted persons are Ibrahim Issah 27, Mohammed Mustapha Yussif 23, Vivor Christopher 27, Benyamin Ajyei, 23, and Seyram Addo 29.

This was after they pleaded guilty to conspiracy to rob, robbery, possession of firearms and ammunition without lawful authority, and possession of police and military accoutrements charges leveled against them.

The fifteen years sentence will run concurrently.

---DGN online
By Trend

The Foreign Affairs Committee of the Grand National Assembly (Parliament) of Turkey approved the Shusha Declaration on allied relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey at the meeting on Feb. 3, Trend reports.

The session was chaired by MP from Istanbul of the ruling Justice and Development Party Akif Cagatay Kilic, and was attended by Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkey Yavuz Selim Kiran.

Kiran speaking at the meeting of the committee, stressed the strategic importance of the Caucasus, noting that the events in this region are closely related to the interests of Turkey and Azerbaijan.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Using neutron imaging techniques at ANSTO, researchers from Macquarie University have gained a better understanding of how corrosion forms and spreads through concrete that is commonly used in sewer pipes.

"The monitoring and mitigation of corrosion in concrete sewer pipes is a significant cost to water utilities around the world that amounts to millions of dollars a year," said Dr. Shima Taheri, a postdoctoral researcher at Macquarie University, who led the study.

With or without reinforcement, corrosion in concrete advances to a point where the concrete has lost its strength, and the damaged area must be replaced immediately to preserve the structure.

The acidic environment in sewer pipes causes corrosion to develop in a complex process.

Engineers monitor concrete for signs of cracks or stress, typically through inspection. Core sampling is used to determine the consistency of the in-service concrete and to detect the signs and depth of corrosion attack.

Dr. Taheri and her associates have shown that non-destructive neutron imaging, coupled with computer modeling, can be used to detect and locate the extent of corrosion early to facilitate timely corrective action.

The research team was assisted by Dingo senior instrument scientist Dr. Joseph Bevitt at ANSTO's Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering.

The team analyzed the formation of iron and monitored its movement in unreinforced concrete as part of the corrosion process in a study published in the Journal of Construction and Building Materials.

The work has highlighted how the formation of iron-rich zones and their movement contribute to the progression of corrosion and its severity.

"The presence of iron-rich areas could be used as a tool for estimating the remaining useful service life of a concrete structure, particularly a sewer pipeline," said Dr. Taheri.

The neutron tomography instrument Dingo was used to non-destructively analyze the internal structure of concrete samples (image above).

The technique can penetrate dense, solid materials, such as concrete.

It can be used to create two- and three-dimensional images of a material, that are generally not observable by other methods.

The researchers carried out experiments using sulphuric acid to accelerate corrosion on laboratory-made concrete samples without iron reinforcements (rebar).

"It revealed the distribution of aggregates and sands within the cement paste, the presence of cracks, voids, and, more importantly, the presence and thickness of the corrosion front," explained Dr. Taheri.

On the tomographic images, the iron-rich zone is a layer of a distinctive golden brownish color, which indicates an increased amount of iron.

"We observed that the formation of an iron ring and its enrichment occurs at the border of the corrosion front and a transition zone," she said

The iron ring appeared to be a uniformly distributed zone within the transition zone between areas showing an advanced level of corrosion and areas showing initial stages of corrosion.

Only a few previous studies have reported the presence of an increased amount of iron in corroded areas of concrete. All of those reports concerned samples containing an iron rebar.

"Our samples, however, did not contain an iron rebar nor was the experiment performed under the influence of an iron-oxidizing bacteria. The formation of an iron-rich zone has a direct link with the severity of corrosion in concrete, regardless of the presence or absence of metallic rebar or microbial activity," explained Dr. Taheri.

Explore further Simulations show iron catalyzes corrosion in 'inert' carbon dioxide

More information: Shima Taheri et al, Migration and formation of an iron rich layer during acidic corrosion of concrete with no steel reinforcement, Construction and Building Materials (2021). Shima Taheri et al, Migration and formation of an iron rich layer during acidic corrosion of concrete with no steel reinforcement,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2021.125105
Image of the ultrastructural morphology exhibited by the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV). Credit: CDC

Just hours before the Beijing Winter Olympics opening ceremony, a group of international scientists demanded Thursday that China stop blocking an independent investigation into the origins of COVID-19.

Twenty scientists from Europe, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, India and Japan published an open letter harshly criticising Beijing for preventing efforts to truly get to the bottom of how the pandemic began.

Entitled "Allowing a Comprehensive International Investigation of Pandemic Origins would be a True Expression of Olympic Values", the letter warns that failing to uncover the exact origins of the virus that causes COVID-19 puts the world at greater risk of future pandemics.

"The ongoing efforts by China's government to block any meaningful investigation into pandemic origins... have been an affront to the international scientific community and to people everywhere," the letter said.

The scientists urged countries and people around the world to take advantage of the Olympic spotlight to highlight China's obstruction and demand it change course.

"The noble aspiration" of the Olympics "is being undermined through the ongoing efforts of the host government to prevent a comprehensive international investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic," they wrote.

The scientists accused Beijing of "destroying biological samples, hiding records (and) imprisoning courageous Chinese citizen journalists".

Protect whistleblowers

They also decried "a series of gag orders preventing Chinese scientists from saying or writing anything about pandemic origins without prior government approval".

Among their recommendations, they urged the World Health Organization to create a "secure whistleblower provision" to make it easier for scientists and experts in China and elsewhere to share information regarding pandemic origins.

Understanding where the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID came from is seen as key to preventing future pandemics.

In the more than two years since SARS-CoV-2 was first detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan, it has officially killed nearly 5.7 million people, although the true figure is believed to be several times higher.

After much delay, a WHO team of international experts did go to Wuhan in January 2021 to look into the origins of the virus in cooperation with their Chinese counterparts.

Lab-leak theory

They produced a joint report concluding that the most likely hypothesis was that the virus jumped from bats to humans via an intermediate animal. They deemed a theory that it may have escaped from a laboratory "extremely unlikely".

However, that investigation faced harsh criticism for lacking transparency and access, and for not seriously evaluating the lab-leak theory.

The UN health agency has created a new team of scientists to revive the stalled probe and to investigate other pathogens that could potentially spur future pandemics.

But Beijing has balked at calls for further investigation on the ground, and has not provided access to raw data from Wuhan laboratories that could potentially help confirm or rule out a connection.

"We really don't know whether it was an accident related to research or whether it was fully natural," Virginie Courtier, an evolutionary geneticist at the Institut Jacques Monod in Paris and co-organiser of Thursday's letter, told AFP.

"We need to investigate more."

The open letter cautioned that "With no established plan in place for a comprehensive and unrestricted international investigation into COVID-19 origins, everyone on earth and future generations remain at heightened and unnecessary risk of future pandemics".

Explore further WHO says confident China will cooperate on COVID origins probe

 2022 AFP
Night Tube strikes are going to batter businesses, jobs and people's safety, hospitality bosses have warned.

London Underground drivers walking out on weekends until June 'is the last thing the capital needs' as it recovers from the pandemic, the experts said.

They pointed out it will also be more dangerous for women and vulnerable people looking for a safe route home in the evening.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union on the Central and Victoria lines are striking for eight hours on Friday and Saturday evenings.

It has taken place every weekend since January 7 and staff are pledging to continue doing so for another four months.

The union accused London Underground bosses of a 'deafening silence' over the row but Transport for London said it was open to talks.

London Underground drivers walking out on weekends until June 'is the last thing the capital needs' as it recovers from the pandemic, the experts said (file photo)

UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls (pictured) said: 'A strike would jeopardise hospitality businesses, jobs, livelihoods and peoples' safety'

Pub and club bosses warned the drivers of the threat to other industries the strikes were causing.

UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: 'A strike would jeopardise hospitality businesses, jobs, livelihoods and peoples' safety.

'The tube is crucial for safely transporting staff and customers - often women and vulnerable people late at night - to and from venues.

'Hospitality has suffered two disastrous years of closure and devastatingly low levels of trade, but will now be key to London's recovery.'

She added: 'The last thing the capital needs is new setbacks like this.'

Michael Kill, CEO of Night Time Industries Association, said: 'We have fought extremely hard to re-establish the night tube service last year, but now further disruption through long term strike action is likely to have a devastating impact on the night time economy which is a fundamental part of the Capitals infrastructure.

'This action will further limit the services on the night tube, against the backdrop of night time economy businesses facing an extremely challenging start to 2022, presenting considerable concerns over the safety of customers and staff traveling home at night.'

Chief Executive of London Chamber of Commerce Richard Burge branded the RMT 'obstructive and selfish'.

He called on the union to 'put their shoulder to the wheel and show solidarity with businesses and Londoners'.

Managing Director for Strategy and Policy at London First Muniya Barua added: 'Londoners depend on a regular underground service and for many the Night Tube is a lifeline, not just a Tube line.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) on the Central and Victoria lines are walking out for eight hours on Friday and Saturday evenings

'This action will have major consequences for the economic recovery at the very point that commuters will be returning to their offices.'

Drivers have been walking out in their latest strike since January 7 amid arguments over rosters for the Night Tube.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: 'We are calling on Tube bosses to end their deafening silence and take up the opportunity of resuming negotiations with the aim of resolving the Night Tube dispute.

'The action continues tonight despite the fact that we believe there are simple and cost-free options that would enable us to consider suspending the action. We cannot make any progress if LU continue to give us the cold shoulder.

'With London heading back towards some normality at last, the settlement of this dispute should be a priority for the mayor and his officials and that means showing a willingness to recommence the talks process.

'The issue at the heart of the dispute, protecting the work/life balance of drivers, cannot be swept under the carpet and needs to be addressed rather than dismissed.

'RMT stands ready to get talks back on. '

A TfL spokesman said: 'We remain open to talks with the RMT, in the hope this long-running strike action can be called off.

'During the six months of regular (conciliation service) Acas talks on this matter, it's become clear that there are no new or workable proposals. However we remain in touch with both the RMT and Acas in the hope that a resolution can be found.

'Our position remains that since changes to our rosters, which have been agreed with our other union, were implemented, they've been a positive change for the organisation and our staff, helping us to keep London moving, become a fairer place to work and bringing back Night Tube.

'Despite the strike action, we're running a good Night Tube service on the Victoria Line and a regular service on the Central Line, with at least two trains per hour through central London.

'We've made changes to driver rosters to preserve a near-normal Tube service while also giving drivers the opportunity for full-time work, new flexible part-time work and long-term job certainty.

'There are no job losses, and those few who want to remain on the previous rosters have been able to do so as a result of the changes made, and we have assured Tube drivers that night shifts usually can be swapped with colleagues for duties at other times of day.'
The Algerian government has often said the country had a surplus in producing cooking oil blaming the scarcity of the product in the local market on speculation, but an inquiry by a parliamentary committee has exposed the governments lies and its endemic use of conspiracy theories to justify failed policies.

Algerians have struggled for about one year with a rarity of cooking oil. The government first started by rationing the sale of the product and went as far as imposing ridiculous rules like banning the sale of cooking oil for people under 18 to stop people from using the under-aged to stockpile.

Algerias trade minister said that the needs of the local market were estimated at 1600 tons daily and that the country had a production surplus of 400 tons per day, blaming speculators for scarcity. Officials also blamed contraband, before deploying conspiracy theories blaming the foreign hand.

All of these arguments are fallacious, according to Ismail Kouadri, president of a parliamentary committee in charge of investigating the cooking oil crisis that leaves Algerians queuing for the basic product.

He said figures about Algerias production of cooking oil are imaginary as long as they are uncorroborated on the ground.

The same committee said that speculation cannot be held accountable for the rarity of cooking oil, adding that no one can speak of speculation where there is abundance as the government claims.

Besides cooking oil, Algerians are facing an acute shortage of vital medicine. The minister in charge has also maintained that there are no shortages and that medicine are available, at a moment Algerians suffer in hospitals lacking medicine.

North Africa Post, citing Algerian economists abroad, has on multiple occasions pointed that the cause of cooking oil and medicine shortage beside other basic goods is to be found in failed policies to diversify the economy.

Fearing an imminent dry out of state foreign exchange reserves, Algeria has adopted a drastic import cut policy which hit soja and other goods used in making cooking oil.

The policy has resulted in a slight trade surplus. But at the cost of leaving Algerians standing in queues unable to find one liter of cooking oil or vital medicine to save lives.
Jamie Cornish

Jamie Cornish, Science Outreach and Education Specialist in MSU Academic Technology and Outreach, has received the Excellence in Outreach Award for a member of the MSU staff. The award recognizes significant engagement programming and achievements. It carries a $2,000 honorarium.

Cornish has demonstrated her commitment to science education and outreach throughout her 20-year career at MSU. During that time, Cornish has been a principal investigator and collaborator on competitive science education and outreach grants from NASA, the National Institutes of Health, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, Montanas Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education Gear Up, Montana EPSCoR and others. In the last five years, Cornish has written and implemented grants totaling more than $1.6 million, while continuing to train faculty in writing sections of their NSF grants and helping them implement those ideas. Her nominators say that work has made a large impact on the quality and quantity of outreach programs at MSU.

Cornishs recent work has focused on science education outreach to Montana American Indian youth, in partnership with tribal colleges throughout the state. In that role she has coordinated several successful outreach programs including Rockets on the Reservation, a program that engaged more than 2,500 rural students in all seven Montana reservations with NASA science. More than 360 middle school youth from rural underserved communities have come to MSU over the last six years for the Explore Earth and Space Science camp, which Cornish also coordinated.

During the COVID-19 quarantine, Cornish worked to provide students who were at home with hands-on science lessons. She created an Amskapi Piikani NASA kit with Blackfeet Community College. Filled with place-based activities showcasing Blackfeet knowledge and language, the kits were distributed to more than 500 students. She is currently working on a similar kit for the Apsaalooke (Crow) tribe. Cornish also worked with educators in the Blackfeet tribe to explore ways to increase Native students interest in science, mixing Western science with Native ways of knowing to improve Blackfeet youths engagement and fascination with science.

On campus, she organized MSU Family Science Day, an event that helps the public interact with MSU students, scientists and staff and learn about their research by exploring hands-on activities in a science festival type atmosphere. Cornish ensured that all 5th grade classes at Title 1 schools in Bozeman can attend the event by securing grant funding for the classes.

Cornish has co-authored several articles in journals with her campus collaborators. Additionally, Cornish was one of the key authors and the editor of a guidebook to Yellowstones microbial life that is used in educational programs by the National Park Service at Yellowstone National Park.
Believe it or not, it's not just the Bollywood actors who have differences in the industry.



As you already know, there are a lot of past rivalries in Bollywood, with one being the Salman and Shah Rukh one a couple of years back.

The tiff between Vivek Oberoi and Salman has also been one of the biggest controversies to date.

However, there was a time when Bollywood's top director Karan Johar had a point of difference with another Bollywood director, Mahesh Bhatt.

 BCCL

As you already know, Mahesh Bhatt's daughter Alia Bhatt is actually one of the stars who was taken under the wing of Karan, with the director actually launching her in Student Of The Year alongside Sidharth Malhotra and Varun Dhawan.



 Dharma Productions

However, did you know that Karan actually said a few things about her Mahesh, which were obviously surprising to many?



Yep!

According to reports, Karan had spoken against Mahesh back in 1998, when Mahesh had been directing the Shah Rukh Khan film Duplicate.

 Dharma Productions

In an old interview, Karan, who is producing Alia's upcoming film Brahmastra, had expressed his disappointment in Mahesh for having put really low interest in Duplicate.



The movie, starring SRK, Juhi Chawla, and Sonali Bendre, had actually been produced under the banner of Dharma Productions, which at the time was being helmed by Karan's father Yash Johar.

At the time, Karan revealed how Mahesh's actions put the film at stake, and how it caused a lot of 'pain and despair' to his father. Speaking about it, Karan said,

I had nothing to do with it. In fact, I deliberately and consciously stayed away from it. The film was completed only because of the commitment of one man: Shah Rukh Khan. Everything else was wrong with it.

This is not the way to make a film and I am sad that my father had to go through with the pain and the despair of making such a film in which the director had no interest beyond cursory.

He was careless and took virtually no interest in the making of the film. If it was not for Shah Rukh and the way he took charge of the film, it would never have been completed.

Well, obviously fans actually ended up liking the film that saw Shah Rukh play double roles.

I guess, the Bollywood Badshah, who will next be seen in his film Pathan, is always there to save the day.

Source: Koimoi
Film Critic

Chuck Koplinski is The News-Gazette's film critic. His email is chuckkoplinski@gmail.com and you can follow him on Twitter (@ckoplinski).
WASHINGTON  White House press secretary Jen Psaki accused Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley of spreading Russia propaganda Wednesday after the Republican senator called for the Biden administration to drop support for Ukraines potential admission into NATO.

Hawleys letter comes amid growing tension along Ukraines border with Russia as the international community braces for a potential invasion of the Eastern European country, which gained its independence with the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.

If you are just digesting Russian misinformation and parroting Russian talking points, you are not aligned with long-standing bipartisan American values, which is to stand up for the sovereignty of countries like Ukraine but others, their right to choose their own alliances and also to stand against very clearly the efforts or attempts or potential attempts by any country to invade and take territory of another country, Psaki said Wednesday when asked to respond to Hawleys letter, which was published by Axios.

That applies to Senator Hawley, but it also applies to others who may be parroting the talking points of Russian propagandist leaders, Psaki added, appearing to reference other figures on the political right, such as Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who have voiced an ambivalence about Russian aggression in Ukraine in recent weeks.

Hawley sent a letter Tuesday to Secretary of State Antony Blinken questioning whether the U.S should continue to support Ukraines potential membership in NATO, more formally known as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, a military alliance formed by the U.S. and European allies during the Cold War.

President George W. Bush first expressed support for Ukraines admission into the organization in 2008 when Biden was in his final year in the Senate. Russia has long opposed the former Soviet Republics potential membership in the organization.

The world of 2008 is gone, Hawley said in the letter, which cited China as a growing security threat and argued U.S. resources should be shifted to the Indo-Pacific instead of maintaining a focus on Europe.

Some argue that now is not the right time to ask hard questions about Ukraines prospective membership in NATO, Hawley wrote. But I submit that now is exactly the right time for confronting hard truths.

His position echoes the stance of former President Donald Trump, who threatened to pull the United States out of the NATO alliance because he said the other countries in the alliance werent contributing enough.

Hawley responded to Psakis criticism on Twitter within minutes of her comments and accused the Biden administration of being soft on Russia.

This from an Administration that has coddled Russia from Day One and now brought Europe to the brink of war  giving the Russians Nord Stream 2, refusing Ukraine military aid last year, and conducting a disastrous evacuation of Afghanistan that emboldened our enemies worldwide, Hawley wrote.

Hawleys letter also drew condemnation from some lawmakers on Capitol Hill Wednesday, including Illinois Rep. Adam Kinzinger, a Republican who voted to impeach Trump after the riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

I hate to be so personal, but Hawley is one of the worst human beings, and a self egrandizing (stet) con artist, Kinzinger wrote.
Madison Cawthorn, 26, tore into Joe Biden, 79, on Wednesday for approving the deployment of 3,000 U.S. troops to Europe as the freshman representative described the president as a 'geriatric despot' and 'idiot'.

'Madam Speaker, the sons and daughters of America are not foot soldiers for your party's inept geriatric despot,' the Republican representative said during a floor speech Wednesday. 'They are not expendable pawns to be dispatched at the whims of an idiot, tossed carelessly around the world to godforsaken caves and bloody sand boxes. They are Americans, worthy of honor and dignity.'

'The only salute from them Joe Biden deserves involves one finger,' he added.

Cawthorn is a staunch Trump ally who emerged as a controversial figure in the Republican Party shortly after taking office in 2021 to succeed Mark Meadows when he vacated his post to become Donald Trump's chief of staff.

Rep. Madison Cawthorn slammed President Joe Biden as an 'inept geriatric despot' who deserved a salute with the middle finger with his handling of rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine

Paratroopers with the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division prepare for deployment to Eastern Europe from Fort Bragg, North Carolina on February 3, 2022

Biden (pictured Thursday at the National Prayer Breakfast at the Capitol) approved this week the deployment of 3,000 troops to Eastern Europe as Russia moves closer to attacking Ukraine

Some of Cawthorn's controversial stances and comments include backing Trump's claim the 2020 election was stolen and calling COVID-19 vaccine mandates 'modern day segregation.'

The North Carolina representative also recently made headlines when he was seen cleaning a gun during a Zoom meeting with veterans.

Cawthorn's criticism of Biden on Wednesday came as the Pentagon announced the commander-in-chief approved a U.S. deployment to Eastern Europe as concerns grew that Russia could invade Ukraine.

'The path to American national security does not lie in American international interventionism,' Cawthorn continued in his House floor remarks. 'It lies in securing our southern border  not the Russia-Ukraine border'

'Our greatness is forged in our resistance to interference. The war lobby has no ally in the America First Republicans. We will preserve our strength through nationalism. We will champion America First today and America First forever.'

The Pentagon announced Wednesday that 2,000 troops in the U.S. will deploy to Poland and Germany and another 1,000 will head to Romania from their base in Germany

The U.S. has sent millions of dollars worth of military aid to Ukraine. Airmen from the 436th Aerial Port Squadron load ammunition, weapons and other equipment at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware for a foreign military sales mission on January 30, 2022

2,000 troops from Fort Bragg, 1,000 in the Stryker squadron moving from Germany to Romania and thousands more ready: The U.S. troop plan for Eastern Europe Department of Defense Spokesperson John Kirby detailed on Wednesday the latest U.S. troop movements approved by President Joe Biden. He said that plan was laid out to the president in three parts: 1  1,000 U.S. troops part of the Germany-based infantry Stryker squadron will reposition to Romania 'in the coming days.' This mounted cavalry unit is designed to deploy in short order and move quickly once in place. The movement to Romania will add to the 900 U.S. forces already in that country to help deter aggression from Russia and enhance defensive capabilities in frontline NATO allied states. Kirby said Pentagon Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed reposition with Romania last week and the movement there is coming at the invitations of the Romanian government. France also intends to deploy to Romania under NATO command. 2  Approximately 2,000 troops stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina will deploy to Europe this week. The majority of those deployments, approximately 1,700, will comes from the 82nd Airborne Division's infantry brigade combat team, which will go to Poland. The 82nd specializes in parachute assault operations and is a rapid ready team prepared to response anywhere in the world within 18 hours. Another 300 or so are coming from the 18th Airborne Corps, which will create a joint task force capable headquarters in Germany. The corps provides mission command and is designed for rapid deployment anywhere in the world. Kirby said the Pentagon worked with Poland and Germany and have support for deployment. He assured: 'Again, these are not permanent moves. They respond to current conditions. We will adjust our posture as those conditions evolve.' 3  All of these troop movements and deployments are 'separate and in addition' to the 8,500 U.S. military personnel put on heightened alert posture last week. Kirby said: 'Those 8,500 are not currently being deployed but remain ready to move, if called, for the NATO Response Force (NRF) or as needed for other contingencies as directed by the Secretary of by President Biden.' Advertisement

The Pentagon revealed earlier on Wednesday that Biden approved deployment of 3,000 American troops to Eastern Europe 'in the coming days'.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told Russian news agency Interfax that the U.S. moves are 'not substantiated by anyone' and are 'destructive steps which increase military tension and reduce scope for political decisions.'

Defense Department spokesman John Kirby detailed on Wednesday that 2,000 troops stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina will deploy to Poland and Germany this week. The majority of this group  around 1,700 troops  will come from the 82nd Airborne Division's infantry brigade combat team and will go to Poland.

Just a few hundred  the remaining approximately 300  will deploy from the 18th Airborne Corps to create a joint task force capable headquarters to provide mission command in Germany.

Another 1,000 troops part of a Germany-based infantry Stryker squadron will reposition to Romania at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) closest flank to Russia. They will add to the 900 U.S. forces already in Romania

The movements come as the west waits to see if Moscow will invade Ukraine after moving at least 130,000 troops to its border.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly claimed he does not intend to attack Ukraine.

Kirby assured reporters during his Wednesday briefing of the latest deployments: 'These are not permanent moves. They respond to current conditions. We will adjust our posture as those conditions evolve.'

'We do not believe conflict is inevitable,' he assured

Biden additionally put 8,500 troops on heightened alert last month in preparation for movement to Eastern Europe to help bolster the region against threats from Russia should NATO activate its response force.

Republican lawmakers are split on Biden's decision.

South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham is in favor of it.

'I completely support the Biden Administration's decision to send more U.S. troops to bolster NATO allies in the face of Russian aggression,' Graham tweeted on Wednesday. 'It is imperative that NATO meet the moment and that we stand firmly against Putin's efforts to divide the alliance.'

On the other hand, fellow Republican Senator Mike Braun from Indiana is against it.

'I am strongly opposed to President Biden's decision to send American troops to Eastern Europe,' he tweeted along with an image of a longer statement on the matter.

He claims that the U.S. should not be getting engaged in conflict when other countries should 'defend themselves'.

Senator Josh Hawley, a Trump ally from Missouri, said he supports sending assistance to Kiev to help Ukraine defend itself. He is, however, against the U.S.getting so involved in the potential of war with Russia.

The U.S. has already sent millions of military aid in at least six shipments to Kiev.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Hyderabad on Saturday to kickstart the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), the PMO said on Thursday.

He will dedicate to the nation a 216-feet tall "statue of equality" which commemorates the 11th-century bhakti saint Sri Ramanujacharya, who promoted the idea of equality in all aspects of living, including faith, caste and creed, it added.

The statue is made of 'panchaloha', a combination of five metals: gold, silver, copper, brass, and zinc. It is among one of the tallest metallic statues in sitting position in the world, it said.

The statue is mounted on a 54-feet high base building named 'Bhadra Vedi'. It has floors devoted to a Vedic digital library and research centre, ancient Indian texts, a theatre, an educational gallery detailing many works of Sri Ramanujacharya, the PMO said.

The statue has been conceptualised by Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami of Sri Ramanujacharya Ashram.

During the programme, a 3D presentation mapping on the life journey and teachings of the saint will also be showcased, the PMO said, adding that Modi will also visit the identical recreations of 108 'divya desams' (ornately carved temples) that surround the statue.

Sri Ramanujacharya worked tirelessly for the upliftment of people with the spirit of every human being equal regardless of nationality, gender, race, caste or creed.

The inauguration of the statue is part of the ongoing 12-day celebrations of his 1000th birth anniversary.

During the visit, the prime minister will also inaugurate ICRISAT's climate change research facility on plant protection and ICRISAT's rapid generation advancement facility, the PMO said.

These two facilities are dedicated to the smallholder farmers of Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Modi will also unveil a specially designed logo of ICRISAT and launch a commemorative stamp issued on the occasion.

ICRISAT is an international organisation that conducts agricultural research for development in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. It helps farmers by providing improved crop varieties and hybrids and also helps smallholder farmers in the drylands fight climate change.

Check out the latest videos from DH:
DENVER, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Furnished Finder, a leading online housing marketplace for traveling professionals, announces the addition of Extended Stay America ("ESA") to its nationwide network of furnished accommodations. ESA has more than 71,000 rooms across 44 states in the United States and is the leading brand in the mid-priced extended stay segment.

"Developing partnerships with reputable hotels is key to successfully serving our travelers" says Brian Payne, Co-Founder and CEO of Furnished Finder. "Traveling professionals need flexibility with their stays  ranging from weekly to monthly accommodations. By including ESA in our portfolio of offerings, we can enhance that level of flexibility while giving professionals a quality furnished property." He continues, "The need for monthly furnished rentals has increased dramatically and through this partnership, we will provide quality housing for not only traveling healthcare professionals, but anyone in need of flexible, furnished space."

ESA is proud to present STAYconfident, a program committed to the health, safety, and comfort of guests. Travelers can take advantage of negotiated discounts on ESA properties by booking at www.furnishedfinder.com/hotels.

About Furnished Finder

Furnished Finder is the leading housing platform for traveling professionals and remote workers looking for monthly furnished housing in the US. With more than 70,000 properties and representing a potential of 20M bookable nights per month, Furnished Finder is the source of direct bookings for landlords, property managers, and hoteliers. Fueled by their strategic industry partnerships and high search ranking, traveling nurses, remote workers, and other traveling professionals depend on Furnished Finder for monthly furnished rentals. Furnished Finder also owns KeyCheck, a site that provides tools for landlords, including online rent payment, free tenant screening, and custom residential leases. For more information, visit www.furnishedfinder.com

About Extended Stay America

Extended Stay America, Inc. ("ESA") is the largest integrated hotel owner/operator in North America. Its subsidiary, ESH Hospitality, Inc. ("ESH"), is the largest lodging REIT in North America by unit and room count. ESA manages all of ESH's hotel properties and also franchises additional Extended Stay America hotels, with 652 hotels and providing over 7,500 jobs at Extended Stay America's hotels and corporate headquarters. Extended Stay America is the leading brand in the mid-priced extended stay segment, with approximately twice as many rooms as its nearest competitor. Learn more about ESA at www.extendedstayamerica.com

SOURCE Furnished Finders
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Do cognitive abilities change together, or do they change independently of each other? An international research team from the USA, Sweden, and Germany involving the Max Planck Institute for Human Development has presented new findings now published in Science Advances.

At the age of 20, people usually find it easier to learn something new than at the age of 70. People aged 70, however, typically know more about the world than those aged 20. In lifespan psychology this is known as the difference between "fluid" and "crystallized" cognitive abilities. Fluid abilities primarily capture individual differences in brain integrity at the time of measurement, whereas crystallized abilities primarily capture individual differences in accumulated knowledge.

Accordingly, fluid and crystallized abilities differ in their average age trajectories. Fluid abilities like memory already start to decline in middle adulthood. In contrast. crystallized abilities such as vocabulary show increases until later adulthood and only evince decline in advanced old age.

This divergence in the average trajectories of fluid and crystallized abilities has led to the assumption that people can compensate for fluid losses with crystallized gains. For instance, if an individual's memory declines, this loss, it is assumed, can be compensated for by an increase in knowledge.

A study of a research team from Germany, Sweden and the USA now shows that this compensation hypothesis has more limits than previously claimed. The researchers analyzed data from two longitudinal studies, the Virginia Cognitive Aging Project (VCAP) study from the USA and the Betula study from Sweden. In the VCAP study, 3633 female and 1933 male participants aged 1899 years at the first occasion of measurement were followed for a period of up to 18 years and assessed up to eight times. The Betula study involved 1803 women and 1517 men who were between 25 and 95 years old at the first measurement occasion and examined up to four times over 18 years.

The research team used multivariate methods of change measurement to examine the extent to which individual differences in changes in crystallized abilities are related to individual differences in fluid changes. The findings are clear: The correlations between the two types of changes observed in both studies were very high. Thus, individual differences in cognitive development are, to a large extent, domain-general and do not follow the fluid-crystallized divide. What this means is that individuals who show greater losses in fluid abilities simultaneously show smaller gains in crystallized abilities, and persons whose fluid abilities hardly decline show large gains in crystallized abilities.

These findings are in accordance with the everyday observation that some people remain mentally fit in many areas into very old age while others' cognitive functioning declines across the board.

"In intelligence research, people often talk about a general factor or g-factor of intelligence that expresses the commonality of different cognitive abilities," says the lead author of the study, Elliot Tucker-Drob of the Department of Psychology and the Population Research Center at the University of Texas at Austin, USA. "In previous work, we have already demonstrated that not only individual differences in cognitive abilities at a given point in time can be captured by a general factor, but also changes of cognitive abilities. Our new results confirm this finding and demonstrate that changes in crystallized abilities can indeed be subsumed under a general factor of common change."

"Our findings call for a revision of textbook knowledge," adds Ulman Lindenberger, Director of the Center for Lifespan Psychology at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin. "If those who show the largest fluid losses also show the smallest crystallized gains, then this places tighter limits on the compensatory power of knowledge than previously believed." For example, people whose memory is declining, also show a low gain in knowledge, even though they are in most need of such gains. Conversely, individuals with small fluid losses and strong crystallized gains are less likely to be in need of relying on compensatory processes to begin with.

Overall, the results underscore the great importance of identifying and supporting modifiable influences that contribute to the general maintenance of cognitive abilities in later adulthood and old age. An example is physical exercise that can prevent cardiovascular diseases and thereby help to maintain cognitive abilities.

Explore further Older workers bring valuable knowledge to the job, study says

More information: Elliot M. Tucker-Drob et al, A strong dependency between changes in fluid and crystallized abilities in human cognitive aging, Science Advances (2022). Journal information: Science Advances Elliot M. Tucker-Drob et al, A strong dependency between changes in fluid and crystallized abilities in human cognitive aging,(2022). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abj2422
Light from the morning sun illuminates the Capitol in Washington on Dec. 3, 2021. (J. Scott Applewhite/AP Photo)

Congressional Committee Presented With Incomplete Terrorism Data

House Homeland Security Committee members were told at a Feb. 2 hearing that right-wing violent extremism represents the greatest terrorism threat to the country.

The evidence presented? A study that tracked terrorism plots and attacks in the United States from January 1994 to May 2020the month left-wing violence began erupting around the country in response to the murder of George Floyd.

Far-right terrorism now significantly outpaces other forms of terrorism in the United States, including terrorism from far-left movements, and from individuals inspired by the Islamic State and al-Qaeda, said American University professor Cynthia Miller-Idriss, citing the June 2020 study from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).

In citing the June 2020 report, Miller-Idriss omitted extremist violence from the summer of 2020, as well as terror plots and attacks that have occurred since then.

The CSIS did perform a follow-up study in April 2021, finding that far-right extremists were responsible for 66 percent of the 110 domestic terror attacks and plots in 2020. But that study, too, omits the majority of left-wing violence from the summer of that yearas the paper admits in its fine print.

There were approximately 450 violent protests between May and August 2020, the reports section on methodology states. Yet [CSIS] only verified 12 incidents of far-left terrorism during that period, since most of the violence did not meet the definition of terrorism.

CSIS defined terrorism as the deliberate use, or threat, of violence by non-state actors in order to achieve political goals, and create a broad psychological impact.

For inclusion in the data set, events had to meet all parts of this definition, the organization said. [CSIS] did not seek to address other issues, such as hate crimes, protests, riots, or broader civil unrest.

Meanwhile, Anti-Defamation League (ADL) national director Jonathan Greenblatt told the committee that murders by right-wing extremists are near a 10-year low. He said extremists killed at least 29 people last year, and 17 in 2020down from a 10-year high of 78 in 2016.

Greenblatts data also omits deaths from 2020 protests. ADLs research acknowledged that a number of deaths occurred during or near protests in 2020, but that its not possible to arrive at a universally agreed-upon total for those fatalities, because there is no set criteria for inclusion.

A couple of these deaths were identifiably extremist-related and are included in this report. Most, however, are not, ADL said. In some cases, killings were committed by people who were involved in protests, or in countering or responding to them, but who had no known ties to any extremist movements.

In other cases, according to ADL, murders were committed during protests by people merely using the protests as an opportunity for crime.

In a few cases, law enforcement officers shot protesters or bystanders who brandished, or appeared to have, a weapon, ADL added.

Greenblatt did not disclose these details about ADLs research methodology to the committee. Rather, he joined the chorus of voices saying right-wing violence is Americas largest terrorist threat, downplaying the recent fall in right-wing murders.

While [the fall in right-wing violence] could be cause for optimism, more likely it is the result of the COVID lockdowns reducing mass gatherings, and the increased attention of law enforcement following the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection, Greenblatt said.

To put it in perspective: Antifa is a problem, but the armed militia practitioners, Q-Anon adherents, and accelerationists are literally a threat to the homeland in a way that dwarfs anything else.

Committee members did not ask the witnesses questions about the data underpinning their statements about extremist violence. Democrats largely expressed support for the witness statements, while Republicans said law enforcement should focus on both sides of the ideological spectrum.

The purpose of the hearing was for members to hear from experts about the dynamic terrorism landscape and what it means for America.
Parrell Grossmans first contact with Wayne Stenehjem more than 20 years ago was the start of a relationship he treasures, and one he finds hard to describe as he grieves the death of North Dakota's longest-serving attorney general.

Its just been a wonderful ride, he said.

Grossman, head of the Consumer Protection Division of the Attorney General's Office, in 2000 helped the then-newly elected attorney general unload his moving truck at a Bismarck home. Through the years he watched Stenehjem work for the people of North Dakota on many levels. Stenehjems death is a loss Grossman said is immeasurable.

He was a gifted leader, Grossman said. My personal and professional life will never be the same.

Grossmans view of Stenehjem is echoed by others in the state's law enforcement and legal community who knew him and worked with him. Stenehjem's legacy of professionalism didnt get in the way of a friendship, an invitation to Christmas dinner, or a listening ear at a peace officer convention.

Stenehjem, 68, died Friday following his hospitalization after being found unresponsive that morning at his home. A cause of death has not been made public. In December he had announced his plans to retire at the end of this year, when his current term expires, to spend time with his wife, work with charities and pursue hobbies.

Stenehjem's casket was brought to the Capitol on Wednesday to lie in state in Memorial Hall. A public funeral is at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Bismarck Event Center.

Officer reflections

Bismarck Police Chief Dave Draovitch worked closely with Stenehjem when the Legislature tackled a revamping of the states asset forfeiture procedures. The police department already met most of the requirements put in place by the new laws, and Stenehjem met with Draovitch to gather information to be passed along to other agencies.

He took plenty of time to visit about it, the chief said.

The process leading up to the passage of the legislation required Stenehejem to testify before legislators. Draovitch at those meetings saw how much weight the Attorney General's Office carried and how well Stenehjem handled such situations.

When he came to testify, everybody was on their A game and paying attention, Draovitch said. He just had that kind of character about him.

That character went beyond his professional side, Draovitch said. In their meetings, Stenehjem was always thoughtful and took time to do the right thing.

He was just a good guy, the chief said.

Former Bureau of Criminal Investigation Director Dallas Carlson spoke daily with Stenehjem on the agencys budget and legislation issues. He accompanied the attorney general on trips to peace officer and sheriffs conventions, where Stenehjem took the opportunity to gather information from officers in one-on-one conversations.

Hed pick a town or pick a county and sit down and visit, Carlson said. He wanted to make things better. He wasnt all talk. He was action. He got things done.

Nobody in the Attorney General's Office spent a holiday alone, Carlson said. If bad weather or poor road conditions kept someone from traveling, Youd go to Waynes house.

Wayne and (wife) Beth took care of you, he said.

Stenehjems support of law enforcement was most evident in his actions, according to Maj. Tom Iverson, head of operations for the North Dakota Highway Patrol. The agency relies on the Attorney General's Office for legal guidance, and Stenehjems work on DUI laws and the states 24/7 sobriety program showed he understood what troopers were seeing on duty, the major said.

Stenehjem also supported a system to alert the public when a law enforcement officer had been assaulted and the suspect was at large. The attorney general was involved in the state Peace Officers Association, and he handed out the Herb Eckroth Lone Eagle Award, which annually is given to one retired and one active peace officer in recognition of character and ethics. He spoke at annual peace officer memorials with such clarity that it really sank in with law enforcement officers in attendance, Iverson said.

He very much supported us in the field, Iverson said. Hell be missed by the law enforcement community."

Court considerations

Stenehjem early in his political career became a supporter of open records and open meetings laws, said Jack McDonald, attorney for the North Dakota Newspaper Association. McDonald was starting out as a lobbyist about the same time Stenehjem was elected to the Legislature, before his time as attorney general. McDonald appreciated Stenehjems outgoing personality and cordial treatment of lobbyists.

That isnt always the case, McDonald said.

The states original open meetings laws were passed in 1957 and revised in 1997. Stenehjem about 20 years later organized a task force to make sure the laws got tweaked to move along with the evolution of technology, according to McDonald.

He made sure they fit, he said.

Stenehjem formed friendships years ago with two men who now hold federal judicial seats in North Dakota. U.S. District Judge Daniel Traynor as a University of North Dakota freshman met Stenehjem in the late 1980s. The two once faced each other before the North Dakota Supreme Court in a ballot measure case, and as recently as last month Stenehjem argued an oil and gas lease case with Traynor behind the bench.

It was always a great honor to have him argue a case before me, Traynor said.

Stenehjems demeanor never turned stern in the courtroom -- he instead used his sense of humor to make a point and had an ability to converse that was effective in the courtroom, the Bismarck judge said.

The outcome of the ballot measure case -- in which the AG and his view won the day -- or any other cases never changed their relationship, according to Traynor.

He was always very thoughtful, the judge said. He was interested in how my parents were. He was interested in how my children were. He was interested in me.

U.S. District Judge Peter Welte said he saw similar traits in Stenehjem when the two were handling public defender contracts, and that Stenehjem's demeanor held true when he became attorney general.

He was a sincere human being, the Fargo judge said. He didnt like to see people hurt, but he believed very strongly in the rule of law.

Family and friends of Stenehjem have established an endowment in his name to fund student scholarships at UND, where Stenehjem graduated from law school in 1977, according to the Grand Forks school's alumni association.

Consumers and charities

Stenehjems legislative experience and the relationships formed in that time helped smooth the budgeting process for the Attorney General's Office, boosted legislation and seemed to make every legislative session more successful than the last, Grossman said, adding that legislators often weighed if this is important to Wayne or said I want to hear Waynes thoughts on this.

Some of that was just because he was Wayne, Grossman said.

As a boss, Stenehjem led with an understanding of issues and an easygoing way of resolving them, according to Grossman.

He knew what to do in every circumstance, but he trusted me and my staff to work out the details, Grossman said.

The states consumers were always on the attorney generals mind, as evidenced by Grossmans receipt of countless early morning and late-night emails, he said. Often those emails were to say thanks after a positive outcome on a lawsuit or the resolution of a consumer complaint. If he was ever not pleased you never knew it. That wasnt Wayne Stenehjem, Grossman said.

Charitable organizations were another priority for the attorney general.

Michelle Erickson, executive director of the Abused Adult Resource Center in Bismarck, said Stenehjem spoke at Take Back the Night events and supported legislation to battle domestic violence, abuse and human trafficking. The center is among the charitable organizations listed in Stenehjems obituary. Erickson said that though she is saddened by his death, its nice to know he thinks of us in that way.

Hes always been in our hearts here, she said.
Among community college students who drop out, there are a few who are really close to being finished. Nationally, about 10% of all students who leave college without a degree are only a few credits shy of graduation. They are also the most likely to re-enroll and graduate. Some colleges are trying to identify former students and persuade them to come back using a variety of methods that include data analytics and discounts on tuition.

Using these tools, however, isnt always easy. Community college students who leave early rarely tell school administrators why they left. If colleges heard directly from students about why they drop out, the schools could help them with targeted resources. Or, better yet, they might be able to prevent students from dropping out in the first place.

In our recent peer-reviewed study, we contacted over 27,000 former students of five large and diverse community colleges in Florida who had left in the prior four years without a degree. They had stopped taking classes despite having a C average or better and at least half the credits necessary for an associate degree. We asked them to choose from a list of possible reasons explaining why they left. As researchers focused on issues of access and equity in community colleges, we identified 11 of the most important reasons they gave.

1. Costs were too high

Direct financial costs were the most common reasons for early exit from community colleges, even though the colleges are typically more affordable than four-year schools. Over half of the former students in our survey, 53%, said they left due to the cost of tuition and fees. An additional 25% cited the cost of textbooks. Our findings are in line with prior studies of students at four-year colleges that found students also sometimes leave college due to an inability to pay tuition and fees.

2. Living expenses were also too high

Students sometimes drop out for financial reasons that have little to do with school. For instance, the cost of rent, utilities, health care, child care and food may simply be too much to bear in addition to going to school. This is reflected in the 48% of former students who told us living expenses were a reason they left early.

3. Ran out of financial aid

Just under 43% of students told us they left college because they lost eligibility for financial aid. Students can lose aid for a variety of reasons, such as if they fail to keep their grades up or do not finish their degree fast enough.

4. Unpredictable schedules

One out of every five college students is a parent, and nearly half of those students go to a community college. These students face many demands on their time related to work and child care. Among the leavers, 33% said they left because of problems with unpredictable schedules when it comes to work and family obligations. Those between the ages of 26 and 49 were twice as likely as younger and older students to say that unreliable child care contributed to their leaving. Women of all ages were more than twice as likely as men to cite child care difficulties.

5. Students lacked key information

Many community college students say they do not know what they need to do in order to graduate. They also say their academic advising is limited or impersonal. About 24% of former students stopped going to school in part because they were unsure about which courses to take next.

6. Students wrongly thought they had holds placed on their accounts

About 16% of former students said they could not register due to a financial hold on their school account. However, our study was designed so that it did not include any students who had holds that would keep them from taking classes. This indicates that former students had incorrect information, which is possibly due to limited time with advisers or miscommunication. Hispanic and Black former students were over two and three times more likely, respectively, than white former students to say they could not register due to a financial hold.

7. Health emergencies

About 17% of all former students said that a health emergency contributed to their early exit. The percentage was even higher  over 20%  for those over 50.

8. Students got a new job or lost their job

Most part-time community college students work while in college. For that reason, changes to their work life can affect their ability to go to school. About 34% of all former students said they left school due to a switch from part-time to full-time employment. About 15% exited early due to a promotion, and 13% left because they needed to take on a second job. Conversely, 12% said they left early because they lost their job. Men were more likely than women  22% to 13%  to say that a change in career led them to leave college before earning their degree.

9. Math and science courses were too difficult

Many community college students, for a variety of reasons, are not prepared to take college-level classes. So many struggle to meet math and science requirements. Indeed, 25% of former students told us they left college because they found the math and science courses too hard.

10. Students lacked strong connections to campus

Students often leave college when they do not feel a strong connection to the school or its community. Of the former students we surveyed, 11% said they left in part because they did not have many friends on campus, while 8% said they did not feel welcome on campus.

11. Online coursework and unreliable internet access

Though we surveyed students before the COVID-19 pandemic, which closed campuses and shifted much learning online, many former students indicated that factors related to internet access and online coursework led them to leave without a degree. About 25% of former students cited difficulty learning on their own in an online environment. Another 24% stated they did not have enough interaction with the online course instructor, and 9% said they did not have enough interaction with their peers in online courses. About 7% of all former students and 11% of Black former students said unreliable internet access led them to leave school.

What could be done

Community college students who drop out of school for any period of time are much less likely to graduate than their peers who stay in school. To increase the number of students who earn their degree, it would be beneficial if community colleges sought to keep students from leaving in the first place. We believe a few practices might help.

Target financial resources: Community colleges may wish to provide targeted financial assistance to students who are close to finishing their degree but are running out of financial aid. This last bit of support may be what these students need to cross the finish line.

Provide better information and advising: In order for students to better understand which classes they need to take to graduate  or whether they are still eligible to take classes  community colleges must ensure all students have accurate information. This is particularly important for equitable outcomes for students from different backgrounds.

Strengthen the online learning experience: Finally, for students to feel supported and connected to their instructors and peers, community colleges should continue to improve online course offerings. Community colleges with strong online offerings may be able to offer students the flexibility they need to complete their degree as they also work and take care of their families.

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Justin Ortagus receives funding from the National Science Foundation, the Helios Education Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the William T. Grant Foundation, Arnold Ventures, and the Joyce Foundation. The study referenced in this article was funded by the Helios Education Foundation, but the views expressed therein remain the sole responsibility of the authors.

Benjamin Skinner and Melvin Tanner do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds are among seven governors who received letters this week from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reinforcing an earlier order that National Guard members must get the COVID-19 vaccine or risk losing their Guard status and pay.

In December, Ricketts and Reynolds  both Republicans  joined the GOP governors of Alaska, Mississippi and Wyoming in asking Austin to withdraw the mandate for Guard soldiers and airmen who havent been called up for federal service. The governors of Alaska, Texas and Oklahoma have filed lawsuits to block it.

In responses penned late last week, Austin told the governors the virus takes our service members out of the fight, temporarily or permanently, and jeopardizes our ability to meet mission requirements.

All of the governors contend that the Pentagon lacks authority to enforce a vaccine mandate for service members in Title 32, or state active duty status.

Ricketts said in a statement Wednesday that he doubted the Biden administration had considered the real-world impacts of the mandate.

Nebraskans are going to suffer as a result, he said.

Reynolds office reissued a statement sent out in December, saying it was unconscionable that the federal government would take action against soldiers and airmen who didnt comply with the order.

These are the very men and women serving and protecting our country and our freedoms, she said in the statement. I believe they deserve the right to make their own health care decisions.

The COVID vaccination deadlines have passed for all active duty service members, as well as for the Air National Guard and reserves. Army National Guard troops have until June.

On Wednesday, the Army announced that it would join the other branches in discharging service members who have refused the vaccine. That includes 3,300 soldiers, of whom 3,000 have been issued reprimands. About 97% of soldiers have complied with the mandate.

Unvaccinated soldiers present risk to the force and jeopardize readiness, Army Secretary Christine Wormuth said. We will begin involuntary separation proceedings for soldiers who refuse the vaccine and are not pending a final decision on an exemption.

The Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Space Force have already separated nearly 600 from their ranks for COVID vaccine refusal.

No members of the Nebraska or Iowa National Guard have so far been discharged.

The military services have been going through a methodical process to deal with those who refuse the vaccine as well as those who request medical, administrative or religious exemptions. The reviews require counseling with medical personnel and chaplains as well as senior commanders.

In Nebraska, 247 soldiers and airmen have either requested exemptions or said they plan to seek them, said Maj. Scott Ingalsbe, a Nebraska National Guard spokesman. Nearly 92% of Air Guard members and 72% of Army Guard soldiers in the state are fully vaccinated. Statewide, roughly 62% of Nebraskans are vaccinated.

Nearly 20% of our National Guardsmen remain unvaccinated, Ricketts said. Thats well over a thousand men and women whom we may lose from Nebraskas defense because of this mandate.

That figure could ultimately be smaller by the time the Army National Guards June deadline arrives.

In Iowa, 466 soldiers and airmen have requested exemptions, and 23 have been granted, said Maj. Katherine Headley, an Iowa National Guard spokeswoman. Slightly more than 83% of the states Guard force has been vaccinated.

To date, 92 service members have died of COVID-related complications, according to the Defense Department website. One of them, Master Sgt. Craig Hilderbrand, was a member of the Nebraska Air National Guard.

Hilderbrand, 57, died Dec. 22. The 27-year veteran was a munitions sergeant with the Lincoln-based 155th Air Refueling Wing.

An avid fan of the NFLs Minnesota Vikings, according to his obituary, Hilderbrand is survived by his wife, Susie, and daughters, Brooke and Tristan. He was just a month away from retirement, Ingalsbe said.

The COVID-19 vaccine is one of multiple vaccines that service members are required to receive, including chickenpox, hepatitis A and B, polio, measles-mumps-rubella, tetanus-diphtheria and seasonal flu shots. Additional shots are required for troops stationed or deployed overseas.

The other vaccines, though, have not generated the same level of controversy.

This story includes information from the Associated Press.
MONTPELIER, Vt.  Lawmakers in a handful of states are seeking greater protections for election officials amid growing concerns for their safety after they were targeted by threats of violence following the 2020 presidential election.

Widespread threats against those who oversee elections, from secretaries of state to county clerks and even poll workers, soared after former President Donald Trump and his allies spread false claims about the outcome of the presidential election. Corrupt secretaries will all hang when the stolen election is revealed is just one example of the vitriol that has come from social media, emails and phone messages.

Even in Vermont, where the outcome wasnt disputed, election workers have faced threats. A caller to the secretary of states office said in 2020 that a firing squad would target all you cheating (vulgarity), and a lot of people are going to get executed.

To counter the threats, lawmakers have introduced bills so far in Vermont and several other states, including Illinois, Maine, New Mexico and Washington, all of which have legislatures controlled by Democrats. Much of the legislation would create or boost criminal liability for threats and, in Illinois, for assaults against election workers.

More legislation is possible, as election officials warn that the ongoing attacks endanger democracy and that many election workers have quit or are considering doing so because of the abuse they have faced since the 2020 election.

Nationally, we are seeing longtime experienced election leaders and their staffs leaving their positions for other work because theyve had it  this is it, this has crossed the line, said Vermont Secretary of State Jim Condos, a Democrat.

A survey of local election officials commissioned by the Brennan Center last April found one in three felt unsafe because of their job and one in six said they had been threatened. Trump has continued to promote his false claims that the election was stolen from him, despite no evidence of the type of widespread fraud that would be needed to question the outcome, in which President Joe Biden won by more than 7 million votes.

One bill under consideration in Vermont would expand the definition of criminal threatening to make it easier to prosecute those acts. Another would heighten the penalty for the criminal threatening of election officials, public employees and public servants.

During a recent legislative committee hearing, Condos described how the threatening calls had scared one staffer to the point that he was afraid to leave work and walk to his vehicle. He eventually took time off and sought counseling for symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress.

No election official should ever need to fear for their life for their role in serving our countrys democracy in this or any election, Condos said.

A bill in Maine would make threats against election officials a class C felony, after threats to two local clerks in 2021.

The message has to be loud and clear that this is a threat to our democracy, said Democratic Rep. Bruce White, the sponsor. Threatening people who work our elections is entirely unacceptable.

In the immediate aftermath of the 2020 election, New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver, a Democrat, left her home for weeks as a safety precaution in response to security concerns. A Democrat-sponsored bill introduced last month expands the felony crime of intimidation to include acts against employees and agents of the secretary of state, county clerks and municipal clerks.

Supporters of the legislation said expanding protections to all election office workers is important because threats havent been limited to top-level staff.

In Fulton County, Georgia, two election office workers  one a temporary employee  filed a lawsuit in December against a conservative website, accusing it of spreading false stories about them. Their lawsuit said the false claims led to a deluge of intimidation, harassment, and threats that has forced them to change their phone numbers, delete their online accounts, and fear for their physical safety.

In the weeks following the election, a top Georgia elections official condemned the onslaught of threats and called on Trump to rein in his supporters. At the time, Trump was claiming massive voter fraud in the state and people were driving in caravans past the home of Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, a Republican, and sending sexualized threats to Raffenspergers wife.

At the federal level, an election threats task force within the U.S. Department of Justice has reviewed more than 850 reports of threats to election officials, Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Polite said. Two people have been charged with federal crimes for threatening election workers, including a Texas man charged with threatening to kill government officials in Georgia after the 2020 election. Polite said the department also has dozens of open investigations.

Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, said its imperative that harassers face prosecution.

Unless people are held accountable, this kind of behavior is going to continue, she said.

In October, a congressional committee heard from election officials about graphic threats to their safety since the 2020 election.

Legislation also was introduced by a group of Democrats in the U.S. Senate last year that would make it a federal crime for any person to intimidate or threaten an election worker. It became part of a larger effort by Democrats to create federal standards for voting and restore a key provision of the Voting Rights Act.

That broader effort has since stalled, although there are signs that a bipartisan proposal may be in the works that could shore up what election experts have described as weaknesses in the nations electoral process. That proposal also might include ways to boost protections for election workers who are facing threats and harassment.

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, a Democrat, said she continues to receive threats and was working on a legislative proposal to protect election workers.

I dont think that signing up to administer elections should mean that youre afraid that someone is going to hurt you, Griswold said. We cant have an atmosphere where election workers are afraid to do whats right, afraid to uphold the will of the people, because theyre afraid for their kids and for their homes and their lives. Thats not a democracy.

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Cassidy reported from Atlanta. Associated Press writers Michael Balsamo in Washington, D.C.; Morgan Lee, in Santa Fe, New Mexico; and David Sharp in Portland, Maine, contributed to this report.
CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- GRIT, a joint venture between six diverse firms committed to redeveloping the former Michael Reese Medical Campus on Chicago's South Side, today announced a partnership with leading real estate services firm JLL to market the Bronzeville Lakefront megadevelopment.

Global commercial real estate firm JLL will begin actively marketing office, retail and life sciences leasing opportunities for Bronzeville Lakefront.

GRIT's partners  Farpoint Development, Bronzeville Community Development Partnership, Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives, Draper & Kramer, Loop Capital and McLaurin Development  spent four years designing the mixed use megadevelopment to bring transformative assets to this 100-acre site on Chicago's South Side that will spur economic growth, put a sustainable ecosystem in place, attract diverse tenants and be a healthy community of the future.

Now with the wheels of the multibillion-dollar development in motion and accelerating quickly, JLL will be a key partner to market the project, which will include mixed-income housing, retail, offices and life sciences real estate.

The first phase of Bronzeville Lakefront will include the 500,000-square-foot Bronzeville Innovation Center powered by the Chicago ARC , a life sciences accelerator developed in partnership with Israel's Sheba Medical Center. The Innovation Center will foster a thriving live, work, play and learn environment at Bronzeville Lakefront, while Chicago ARC will focus on pioneering healthcare startups that are working on solutions to urgent health issues that impact local and global communities.

JLL brings a unique skill set marketing Bronzeville Lakefront

"Bronzeville Lakefront is not a straightforward commercial real estate development. It's complex  and it carries weight far beyond economics," said Farpoint Development Principal Eric Helfand. "For us, the most important criteria in selecting a marketing firm went beyond deep expertise in marketing office, retail and life sciences leasing opportunities. We also wanted our leasing partner to have a genuine belief in the project.

"This is about more than selling buildings," Helfand explained. "It's about a once-in-a-generation opportunity to have positive impacts on the surrounding community, to break negative social and economic cycles and to reverse them with a healthy and vibrant Bronzeville that will set an example for inclusive development, not just in Chicago, but nationwide."

"What we love about this project is the developer's focus on building a multi-disciplinary and holistic campus for innovation," JLL Senior Managing Director Brad Despot said. "While life sciences are integral to the development, the vision also extends to a diverse array of technologies and tenants that are driven by a health equity North Star.

Potential for a profound impact

Beyond its revolutionary life sciences center, Bronzeville Lakefront is unique in other respects. While most megadevelopments in Chicago and beyond are situated in affluent neighborhoods, this project is in Bronzeville, a predominantly Black but socioeconomically diverse community on the city's South Side. While Bronzeville is, and has always been, a thriving hub for Black arts, culture and entrepreneurship, it has suffered disinvestment and population loss in recent decades. Bronzeville Lakefront, which is expected to generate $8.2 billion in direct and indirect economic impact, is positioned to have a profound impact on the surrounding community by fostering sustainable growth.

Moreover, diversity and equity are built into the foundation of the project. Among GRIT's owners, half are Black, and one is a local community organization. The developers have pledged to execute Bronzeville Lakefront in a thoughtful and inclusive fashion. Before choosing JLL, GRIT undertook an extensive review of real estate marketing firms with that mission top of mind.

Multifaceted development hinging on diversity

Given the scope of Bronzeville Lakefront, GRIT sought a marketing firm with a global presence, along with a deep health sciences expertise and a substantial team of experts. Firms under consideration were also expected to demonstrate an internal and external commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

"This whole project started with being inclusive and ensuring diversity, and that's intended to carry throughout every level of the development, including our partners and vendors," Helfand said. "We asked every potential marketing firm how they are implementing a DEI strategy in their own firm, and how they would be cognizant of our needs in executing and partnering with us on the site. DEI was very top of mind for JLL."

That allegiance to DEI, along with JLL's global footprint and wealth of experts, led to the firm's selection as Bronzeville Lakefront's leasing agent. JLL will bring a team of experts in office leasing, life sciences solutions, retail and land strategy to market the development.

JLL also has deep expertise in marketing complex commercial real estate projects, which will be pivotal in its partnership with GRIT.

Due to its scale and intricacy, Bronzeville Lakefront will be completed over an approximately 20-year period. When finished, the community will include 10 acres of open space to promote wellness and recreation, naturally manage stormwater and improve air quality; upgrades to pre-existing infrastructure, including new streets and a new Metra station at 31st Street; and the transformation of Cottage Grove into a thriving commercial corridor.

When complete, Bronzeville Lakefront will fill in the last unclaimed section of Chicago's iconic skyline. JLL Senior Vice President Jackie Shropshire added, "To intentionally bring this inclusive development to such a significant location and a historically Black community in one of our nation's largest cities makes it a truly exceptional and unrivaled project."

About GRIT

GRIT is a joint venture comprising Farpoint Development, Bronzeville Community Development Partnership, Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives, Draper & Kramer, Loop Capital and McLaurin Development to redevelop the former Michael Reese Hospital site in Chicago's Bronzeville community. The 100-acre, multibillion-dollar development is master planned as a vibrant, mixed-use, walkable, live-work-learn-play community with more than nine acres of sustainability-oriented green space. It will be anchored by the Bronzeville Innovation Center, which will encompass innovative life sciences, medical and bioscience offices, wet lab space and university partnership sites and be powered by the Chicago ARC , a life sciences accelerator developed in partnership with Israel's Sheba Medical Center and Kaleidoscope Health Ventures. Bronzeville Lakefront's offerings will include affordable, senior and workforce homes, retail options, restaurants and office space that will be home to major companies and organizations.

About JLL

JLL ( NYSE: JLL) is a leading professional services firm that specializes in real estate and investment management. JLL shapes the future of real estate for a better world by using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people and our communities. JLL is a Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $16.6 billion in 2020, operations in over 80 countries and a global workforce more than 95,000 as of September 30, 2021. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com .

Media Contact:

Beshanda Owusu

[email protected]

773-398-9194

SOURCE GRIT
ATLANTA, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Spelman College today announced a $10 million grant from The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation to support an on-campus creative hub for young entrepreneurs.

The funding will establish the Arthur M. Blank Innovation Lab. Formerly known as the Spelman Innovation Lab, the space is a campus-wide resource for entrepreneurial ideation, unconventional research, experimental pedagogy and exploratory play.

The Arthur M. Blank Innovation Lab will form a hub for creative inquiry in Spelman's new Center for Innovation & the Arts, a state-of-the-art learning environment slated to open in 2024. In addition to cutting edge technology tools, The Lab will house the Center for Black Entrepreneurship, which will guide students through an entrepreneurship curriculum and a number of rich co-curricular activities, that will serve as the foundation for the creation of new businesses and bridge the gap between students with competitive ideas and venture capital firms.

"This tremendous gift will allow the College to build on an existing culture of strong innovation and entrepreneurship activity that will help grow a pool of Black entrepreneurs" said Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D., president of Spelman. "Through the support of The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation our new Center for Black Entrepreneurship will have a home for our budding entrepreneurs where they can build community with other entrepreneurs, artists, creators and innovators."

Tools available in the Lab include 3D printers, laser cutters, 4-axis CNC router, and a 3D scanner along with many other conventional hand tools and power tools that make prototyping of just about anything possible in one space.

"Today's young entrepreneurs will play an important role in solving many of our society's most critical issues, and we're pleased to support Spelman in creating a place where students can come together to share and test ideas that will also create more opportunities for positive engagement and growth with the local Westside community," said Arthur M. Blank, chairman, The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. "I'm also personally proud to support the alma mater of Rosalind Brewer, Spelman Board Trustee and Blank Family Foundation Associate Board Member, who often champions her experience at Spelman and the impact that it's had on her success."

About The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation

After 25 years and more than $800 million in giving, The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has committed to significantly accelerating the impact of its philanthropy over the next 10+ years.

The Board is embarking on a journey of deeper learning and strategy setting for its new collective areas of giving, which include: Youth Development, with a focus on workforce development and economic mobility; Democracy, with a focus on key areas of Voting Rights, and Journalism; and Environment, with a focus on key areas of Conservation and Climate Resiliency. Across these portfolios, the foundation will look for opportunities to address the growing crisis of disconnection in our nation. Geographically, much of the work will continue to prioritize Georgia (with a focus on Atlanta) and Montana, while also considering the potential for greater national impact and influence.

In addition to the collective areas of giving, the foundation will continue to oversee a large portfolio of founder-led initiatives, including investment in the transformation of Atlanta's Westside neighborhoods, mental health and well-being, veterans and the military, and stuttering, among others. The foundation will also continue to guide the seven Associate-led giving committees operating across the Blank Family of Businesses.

Mr. Blank, chairman of the foundation, co-founded The Home Depot, the world's largest home improvement retailer, in 1978 and retired from the company as co-chairman in 2001.

For more information and to stay up to date, visit www.blankfoundation.org.

About Spelman College

Founded in 1881, Spelman College is a leading liberal arts college widely recognized as the global leader in the education of women of African descent. Located in Atlanta, the College's picturesque campus is home to 2,100 students. Spelman is the country's leading producer of Black women who complete Ph.D.s in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The College's status is confirmed by U.S. News & World Report, which ranked Spelman No. 54 among all liberal arts colleges, No. 24 for undergraduate teaching, No. 4 for social mobility among liberal arts colleges, and No. 1 for the 15th year among historically Black colleges and universities. The Wall Street Journal ranked the College No. 3, nationally, in terms of student satisfaction. Recent initiatives include a designation by the Department of Defense as a Center of Excellence for Minority Women in STEM, a Gender and Sexuality Studies Institute, the first endowed queer studies chair at an HBCU, and a program to increase the number of Black women Ph.D.s in economics. New majors have been added, including documentary filmmaking and photography, and collaborations have been established with MIT's Media Lab, the Broad Institute and the Army Research Lab for artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Outstanding alumnae include Children's Defense Fund founder Marian Wright Edelman, Walgreens Boots Alliance CEO Rosalind Brewer, political leader Stacey Abrams, former Acting Surgeon General and Spelman's first alumna president Audrey Forbes Manley, actress and producer Latanya Richardson Jackson, global bioinformatics geneticist Janina Jeff and authors Pearl Cleage and Tayari Jones.

For more information, visit Spelman College.

SOURCE Spelman College
Addressing school needs

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

As noted in recent news stories, newly-elected Gov. Glenn Youngkin wants to establish 20 new charter and lab schools with a $150 million budget amendment and legislation that would disenfranchise local communities.

Two new bills, Senate Bill 125 and House Bill 356, would strip power away from locally elected school boards and hand it over to unelected regional boards stocked with gubernatorial appointees. These regional charter school boards could override local school boards and their constituents, duplicating services and forcing taxpayers to fund schools run by for-profit companies that are focused on financial gain, not education. We already have good laws that allow establishing charter and lab schools in ways that preserve local democratic control and don't rob funding from public school students.

We want fully funded public schools, fairly compensated teachers and staff, and modernized school buildings. Corporate charter schools would drain the resources needed to achieve these goals. Many public school teachers and staff live in their communities, with deep knowledge and relationships. Outside charter school operators will bring in nonprofessional teaching staff and a we know better attitude. They pay reduced wages, salaries and benefits.

Allowing these companies to force their schools on us would be harmful across the commonwealth, especially in rural areas such as where I live. Our public schools are beloved, shared community institutions. Even if we dont agree on what should be taught or masking policies, we can all agree that parents and citizens who fund public schools should get to determine how theyre run and by whom.

Rachel Levy.
CARROLLTON, Ga., Feb.3, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ --GreenCourt Legal Technologies, LLC ("GreenCourt") and the Council of Superior Court Clerks of Georgia ("the Council") announce today the renewal of their joint agreement to make electronic filing and records access services available to all of Georgia's Superior and State Courts. First executed in 2014, the renewal of the agreement extends this relationship through 2032.

When the Council made electronic filing a priority in 2014, Council leadership identified three critical challenges to address and overcome when selecting an eFiling partner. First, the eFiling solution must respect the Clerk of Court's authority as the custodian of the court record. Second, the eFiling solution must be compatible with  and carry no bias for or against  any court case management system in use by any Clerk of Court. Third, the eFiling solution must include a self-sustaining financial model.

Cathelene "Tina" Robinson, Clerk of the Superior and Magistrate Courts of Fulton County (Georgia) and President of the Council stated, "Thus far, the partnership between The Clerks' Council and GreenCourt has been extremely successful and rewarding. I am hopeful that through continued effective communication and a commitment to serving, this collaboration and the good things that derive from it will continue for some time."

In December 2014, GreenCourt formally debuted the PeachCourt eFiling and records access system after a rigorous proving stage under the direction of Sheila Studdard, Clerk of the Superior, State and Magistrate Courts of Fayette County (Georgia). "From day number one, GreenCourt has treated the court record with the same respect I do as the custodian of that record and a constitutional officer. After processing tens of thousands of filings, I feel the same today as I did when we received our first filing in 2014. GreenCourt has earned my trust. The team understands the unique nature of this office," said Studdard.

Since 2014, GreenCourt has integrated PeachCourt with a wide variety of court case management systems. GreenCourt's CourtSync application programming interface (API) adapts to any vendor's application, which makes changing case management systems smooth and nearly effortless. "My office made the decision to adopt civil eFiling in 2015, years before the 2018 legislation mandated eFiling in all civil cases. At that time, GreenCourt had me up and running in a matter of weeks. In 2019, with nearly 100% of all civil case filings flowing to my office via PeachCourt, my office made the decision to change from one court case management system to another. Once again, GreenCourt took excellent care of my office. PeachCourt provided uninterrupted eFiling service for my constituents. No one outside my office noticed any difference whatsoever. We trust GreenCourt to make everything work, regardless of the other systems we use," said Pamela Dixon, Clerk of the Superior Court of Jones County (Georgia).

Unlike states such as Texas that appropriate millions of tax dollars to compensate electronic filing providers, Georgia's legislature and judiciary were not inclined to front the cost of eFiling in the Peach State. Rep. Barry Fleming, former Chairman of Georgia's House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, summarizes the situation as follows, "My colleagues and I in the Georgia General Assembly took responsibility for moving our justice system forward through mandatory electronic filing legislation. We were able to consider this major change only because we know GreenCourt is committed to success for the entire state. I dare say that this public- private partnership exceeded what the state could have done on its own." To date, GreenCourt has provided the PeachCourt service to Georgia's trial courts at no cost to the courts, counties or state.

Jay Bland, GreenCourt's Chief Growth Officer, noted, "The quality of the eFiling experience in Georgia today is the result of clear thinking, optimism and commitment on the part of Clerks of Court, the judiciary, the General Assembly and the Georgia State Bar. They collectively issued a challenge and GreenCourt gladly accepted. Our company is honored to serve."

About GreenCourt

GreenCourt Legal Technologies, LLC, headquartered in Carrollton, Georgia, leads digital transformation for state agencies, justice partners, private-sector professionals and the general public. GreenCourt helps these stakeholders move from high-risk situations involving paper-based records, in-person information sharing and manual data entry toward reliable, safe and efficient operations. GreenCourt's leadership has been building, implementing and supporting mission critical software and interoperability systems for more than fifteen years in the banking, healthcare and legal industries. For details, visit us on the web at http://www.greencourt.com, or via Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn, or call 770-823-8708.

Media Contact

Jay Bland, Esq., GreenCourt Legal Technologies LLC, 1 7708238708, jbland@greencourt.com

SOURCE GreenCourt Legal Technologies LLC
CEDAR FALLS  The Black Hawk County Health Departments I-Smile Program is partnering with Kimball and Beecher Family Dentistry to provide free dental care to children in need Feb. 18. Appointments will be scheduled from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the 4501 Prairie Parkway location in Cedar Falls.

The Give Kids a Smile in the Cedar Valley Day provides free dental services to children ages 1-13. Services include oral exams, x-rays, preventive care such as cleaning, fluoride, and sealants, as well as restorative care such as fillings. Children must be registered in advance, and parental permission received, to receive services.

The event is designed to meet the increasing need of families who are unable to find a dental provider who accepts Iowa Medicaid or will provide services when there is a lack of insurance or transportation resources.

If transportation is an issue, Medicaid patients are advised to contact the member service phone number on the back of the Iowa Medicaid card to schedule a ride. Scheduling must be done at least three days prior to appointment day.

Call Kimball and Beecher Family Dentistry at (319) 235-6287 to schedule an appointment.

The Black Hawk County I-Smile Program provides oral health screenings in the school and clinic settings, along with navigation to dental, medical, and community resources in Black Hawk and surrounding counties. Call (319) 292-2247 or visit the Black Hawk County Health Department website at www.bhcpublichealth.org.
Europe is heading for a Covid 'ceasefire' which could signal the end of the pandemic, the World Health Organization has announced.

The Europe director of the organisation Hans Kluge spoke of 'a ceasefire that could bring us enduring peace', with high vaccination rates, the milder Omicron variant and the end of winter in sight.

'This context leaves us with the possibility for a long period of tranquility,' he told reporters on Thursday.

This was 'not to say that (the pandemic) is now all over', but 'there is a singular opportunity to take control of the transmission', he added.

'Even with a more virulent variant (than Omicron) it is possible to respond to new variants that will inevitably emerge - without re-installing the kind of disruptive measures we needed before', Kluge said.

The Europe director of the organisation Hans Kluge (pictured) spoke of 'a ceasefire that could bring us enduring peace', with high vaccination rates, the milder Omicron variant and the end of winter in sight

He cautioned that the optimistic scenario required countries to pursue vaccination campaigns and surveillance to detect new variants.

Sweden joined the move towards scrapping most coronavirus restrictions, setting February 9 as the date with the pandemic entering a 'whole new phase'.

Stockholm will end 11.00pm closing for bars and restaurants, and limits on crowd numbers.

Vaccine passes for indoor events will go and face masks will no longer be recommended on crowded public transport.

'The pandemic is not over, but we are entering a whole new phase,' Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson announced.

Her Health Minister Lena Hallengren said the government would remain 'vigilant' about the pandemic's progress.

Sweden made headlines early in the pandemic for choosing to not impose lockdowns.

'The pandemic is not over, but we are entering a whole new phase,' Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson (pictured) announced

With over 16,000 fatalities so far, its death toll is in line with the European average, but is far higher than those of neighbouring Norway, Finland and Denmark.

After Britain and Ireland, Copenhagen on Tuesday lifted most domestic Covid-19 restrictions, followed later in the day by Norway.

France on Wednesday loosened several restrictions imposed to curb the latest Covid-19 surge, with authorities hoping a small decline in huge daily case numbers will soon ease pressure on overburdened hospitals.

And New Zealand is to start easing some of the toughest pandemic border restrictions yet seen, but will not fully reopen until October.

'It's time to move again,' Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Thursday unveiling a five-step plan to reconnect to the rest of the world.

Sweden made headlines early in the pandemic for choosing to not impose lockdowns

Hotel quarantine requirements for New Zealanders stranded overseas will be lifted this month.

Ardern had been under pressure to relax border policies that have been largely unchanged since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis almost two years ago.

'Families and friends need to reunite, our businesses need skills to grow, exporters need to travel to make new connections,' she said.

But Germany is still grappling with record infection numbers fuelled by Omicron and now recommending a fourth vaccine for at-risk groups, following in the footsteps of Israel and several European nations.

Germany's STIKO vaccine commission said Thursday that data showed 'that protection against the currently circulating Omicron variant wanes within a few months of the first booster vaccination'.

With over 16,000 fatalities so far, its death toll is in line with the European average, but is far higher than those of neighbouring Norway, Finland and Denmark

Israel last month became the first country to roll out fourth Covid-19 shots, initially to the elderly and health care workers, and since to all vulnerable people over 18.

Denmark, Hungary and Spain are also offering fourth jabs to high-risk groups, as are others including Chile and Brazil.

The move has not been universally welcomed, with the WHO repeatedly warning wealthier nations they cannot boost their way out of the pandemic.

Coronavirus has killed at least 5,698,322 million people since the outbreak emerged in China in December 2019, according to an AFP tally from official sources.

Taking into account excess mortality linked to Covid-19, the WHO estimates the overall death toll could be two to three times higher.
Here are the news stories trending in Fairfield this evening:

A man tried to steal her purse but the woman refused to let go, causing both the robber and victim to fall to the ground, police said.>>>Read more.

Updated federal data shows how the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has affected hospitals in Fairfield County.>>>Read more.

The respected annual report cites exemplary engagement, services, technology and faculty credentials.>>>Read more.

After years of uncertainty and neighbor objections, plans for two residential mental health facilities in Greenfield Hill can move forward.>>>Read more.

This article originally appeared on the Fairfield Patch
Another permit for the embattled Mountain Valley Pipeline has been struck down by a federal appeals court.

The latest reversal was of a biological opinion from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which found in 2020 that building a massive natural gas pipeline across rugged mountainsides would not jeopardize endangered species in its path.

An opinion from the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals was issued Wednesday, according to Mountain Valley. But it was initially placed under seal to protect the exact locations of where endangered species of fish and bats can be found along a 303-mile route that takes the pipeline through Southwest Virginia.

Mountain Valley issued a statement early Thursday morning that said the biological opinion had been vacated on "specific issues" that must now be addressed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.

"The MVP project team is taking time to thoroughly review the information outlined in the decision and is evaluating the projects next steps regarding the Biological Opinion," the statement read.

"We remain committed to completing the MVP project and believe the concerns associated with MVPs Biological Opinion can be addressed by the agency. "

Since construction began on the pipeline four years ago, the $6.2 billion project has repeatedly suffered setbacks at the Fourth Circuit. Last month, a three-judge panel of the court rejected a permit allowing the pipeline to pass through 3.5 miles of the Jefferson National Forest.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) on Wednesday expressed its concerns over the alleged forced disappearance of four Pashtun workers following the Anarkali Bazar explosion in Lahore last month, local media reported. Three people, including a nine-year-old child, were killed while over two dozen others were injured when a blast tore through a bustling market chowk near Lohari Gate, a prominent entrance of the historic walled city, on January 20, The Express Tribune reported. According to the Lahore police, an initial investigation showed that a 1.5 kilogramme improvised explosive device (IED) was planted in a motorcycle parked next to a pushcart outside a bank, which was the cause of the blast. "According to HRCP's sources, two persons had disappeared from near Lahore Railway Station on January 22 -- it has taken almost ten days for their families or friends to file an FIR against the incident," The Express Tribune quoted HRCP Chairperson Hina Jilani statement. Jilani said that another Pashtun worker was disappeared after persons in civilian clothes allegedly raided his flat in the early hours of January 26, adding that yet another worker was forced to exit the rickshaw he was travelling in and taken away, again allegedly by persons in civilian clothing, the Pakistani media reported. "No arrest warrants were issued and their friends and relatives have been unable to establish their whereabouts. In the latter two cases, the police have refused to issue an FIR," the statement stated. According to The Express Tribune, the commission expressed its concern over the "worrying familiar pattern", saying that four Baloch students were also detained in a similar manner on January 22 in connection with the blast but later released. "We demand that all four be located and their right to physical integrity and dignity of person guaranteed. If they -- or indeed anyone -- are to be detained at all, then law enforcement personnel are duty-bound to follow procedure and clearly indicate on what charge they have been detained and where they are being held," Jilani added. (ANI)
The Scottish Government has been urged to outline how it will spend consequentials to counter rising energy prices in the country as the First Minister said every single penny received will be spent on the crisis.

Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie made the call during a debate on the soaring cost of living, as regulator Ofgem rose the cap on energy prices by 693 on Thursday.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced that all households will get a 200 discount on bills from October, but that will have to be repaid over five years.

Homes in England will also get a 150 council tax rebate for properties in bands A-D.

The UK Government estimates that devolved governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are expected to receive approximately 565 million of Barnett funding as a result of the council tax rebate.

Every single penny must go into the pockets of people who need urgent help, so will the SNP bring proposals before the chamber next week to outline how it will distribute the money? Ms Baillie asked during the debate.

This cannot wait, there must be no excuses, no inaction, no hiding behind the constitution.

They must act and act now in the interests of the people of Scotland.

The debate pushed for MSPs to support a windfall tax to be levied against the profits of oil and gas companies.

Speaking at First Ministers Questions, Nicola Sturgeon said it was too early to say where money would be spent, given it was less than an hour after the announcement had been made.

Ms Sturgeon told MSPs: Ive not heard all of the detail because he was still on his feet as I came into the chamber, but the Chancellor has just announced what sounded like welcome steps to help mitigate (the rising price cap) but steps that, in my view, do not go far enough.

They seem to offer around 350 of help against energy bill increases of around 700.

Were providing up to 350 per household this year through the #EnergyBillsRebate to help people deal with rising energy bills. Chancellor @rishisunak explains what this support will look like and how it will benefit UK households. pic.twitter.com/undypLutyK  HM Treasury (@hmtreasury) February 3, 2022

I also dont yet know what the position on consequentials will be, but I give a commitment here that  assuming there are consequentials, which I would expect there to be  every single penny of them will go in Scotland to helping people deal with the cost-of-living crisis.

In a statement released on Thursday afternoon, Energy Secretary Michael Matheson said it was deeply disappointing the Scottish Government had not been consulted on the mitigations proposed by the Treasury, adding: The Scottish Government is using all powers and resources available to us to support people in Scotland from the cost-of-living crisis.

However, powers relating to the energy markets remain reserved and I, alongside ministerial colleagues, have repeatedly called for the UK Government to urgently take further, tangible actions to support households  including a reduction in VAT, targeted support for those on low incomes and four-nations discussions to develop an effective response to the energy bill increases.

Under questioning from Labour leader Anas Sarwar  who attacked SNP MPs for voting against proposals to institute a one-off windfall tax  Ms Sturgeon said she was not against the idea, but added the resolution must be fair and equitable.

I am not opposed to oil and gas companies making a contribution because their profits are rising, she said.

I am not opposed to that, Im simply saying these approaches should be fair and equitable. That is the point Im making, and Im also making the basic point that I dont have the power over that.
With this, the active caseload of India is presently at 15,33,921, constituting 3.67 per cent of the country's total positive cases.

According to the Ministry, the weekly positivity rate in the country currently stands at 12.98 per cent, while the daily positivity rate is reported to be 10.99 per cent.

As many as 2,59,107 patients have also recovered in the last 24 hours, taking the cumulative tally of recovered patients since the beginning of the pandemic to 3,97,70,414. Consequently, India's recovery rate stands at 95.14 per cent.

In the last 24 hours, as per the Ministry, a total of 15,69,449 COVID tests were conducted. India has so far conducted over 73.41 crore (73,41,92,614) cumulative COVID tests.

With the administration of over 55 lakh (55,10,693) COVID vaccine doses in the last 24 hours, India's COVID-19 vaccination coverage has exceeded 167.87 crore (1,67,87,93,137), as per Ministry's provisional reports till 7 am today.

"This has been achieved through 1,85,37,996 sessions," the Ministry said. (ANI)
(Bloomberg) -- Airlines and flight crews have been forced to sift through scores of new restrictions since last months chaotic roll-out of new 5G wireless service, aviation industry officials told lawmakers Thursday.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Flight precautions imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration can vary by different runways at the same airport, according to testimony at the Transportation and Infrastructure Committees aviation panel.

Pilots are forced to perform extensive workarounds that we expect will be needed for the foreseeable future, Joe DePete, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, said in prepared remarks. This is no way to run a railroad, and its certainly no way to operate the worlds safest air transportation system.

At the same time, wireless companies AT&T Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. that spent about $80 billion for the rights to the new C-band airwaves, have had to hold off on activating hundreds of cell towers near airport runways as the FAA assesses the potential for interference on aviation equipment.

The truth of the matter is that both of our industries have been thrust into this avoidable economic calamity by a government process that failed, Nicholas Calio, president of the Airlines for America trade group, said in prepared testimony.

Broken System

A top House lawmaker called the U.S. governments process of auctioning radio spectrum completely broken as wireless and aviation groups presented starkly different views of last months chaotic roll-out of new 5G wireless service.

Representative Peter DeFazio, the Oregon Democrat who is chairman of the committee, said the Federal Communications Commission had no plan in place to deal with what he called well known safety issues.

Story continues

Having a dropped call is way less serious than having a dropped airplane out of the sky, DeFazio said.

A panel of witnesses appearing before the committee praised ongoing technical work between the two sides, but differed markedly on the potential risks to aviation and the impacts to the aviation system from the high-speed mobile phone service introduced Jan. 19.

U.S. safety regulators have received more than 100 pilot reports of possible interference from 5G wireless signals -- including three near Chicago OHare International Airport -- since the new mobile phone service began less than two weeks ago.

The reports of anomalies on aircraft devices known as radar altimeters are being reviewed by the FAA, said three people familiar with the matter who werent authorized to speak about it. Interference from the new 5G service has been ruled out in many of the cases, one of the people said, and it remains unclear whether the others indicate a safety hazard or just pilots being overly cautious.

Reform Needed

DeFazio and other lawmakers at the hearing in Washington said that the process of how FCC awards frequencies may need to be reformed to stem the kind of conflicts with other agencies and industries that occurred in recent months.

I think everyone realizes the process didnt serve anyone well, said FAA chief Steve Dickson, the committees first witness.

Dickson said the FAA had been asking for more information from FCC to be able to assess 5Gs impacts for more than a year before they received a response. Even then, the FCC didnt have the needed data and the aviation agency had to turn directly to wireless companies, he said.

New 5G service operates on frequencies that are close to those used by aircraft devices known as radar altimeters, which show how far a plane is off the ground.

The FAA says research shows that the 5G signals have the potential to interfere with the altimeters, which perform a wide variety of navigation and safety functions.

Meredith Attwell Baker, president and chief executive officer of the wireless industry trade group CTIA, called the evidence of interference flawed.

The FCC conducted a rigorous analysis and found no harmful interference from the C-band frequencies used for 5G, she said in her prepared remarks.

The FAA has cleared about 90% of aircraft to operate near 5G signals across the U.S., partly as a result of an agreement by the wireless companies to limit placement of cell towers near runways. At some major airports, including New Yorks John F. Kennedy and New Jerseys Newark Liberty, the percentage is only 81% because of the mix of aircraft, the agency said Wednesday.

As a result, there have been relatively few flight diversions or cancellations.

Faye Malarkey Black, who heads the Regional Airline Association, said the smaller aircraft used by its members havent received as many FAA clearances, putting them at greater risk of flight cancellations if bad weather hits.

Leaving dozens of airports and millions of passengers vulnerable to sweeping disruptions is unsustainable and unacceptable, Black said in her prepared remarks.

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel was invited to testify but had a schedule conflict, DeFazio said.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2022 Bloomberg L.P.
Total Pages: 120

120 Companies: 10+  Including Abbott Laboratories, BIOTRONIK SE, and Co. KG, Boston Scientific Corp., Canon Inc., Cardinal Health Inc., Edwards Lifesciences Corp., General Electric Co., Medtronic Plc, Siemens AG, and W. L. Gore & Associates Inc among others.

10+  Including Abbott Laboratories, BIOTRONIK SE, and Co. KG, Boston Scientific Corp., Canon Inc., Cardinal Health Inc., Edwards Lifesciences Corp., General Electric Co., Medtronic Plc, Siemens AG, and W. L. Gore & Associates Inc among others. Coverage: Key drivers, trends, and challenges; Product insights & news; Value chain analysis; Parent market analysis; Vendor landscape; COVID impact & recovery analysis

Key drivers, trends, and challenges; Product insights & news; Value chain analysis; Parent market analysis; Vendor landscape; COVID impact & recovery analysis Segments: Product (diagnostic and monitoring systems and surgical devices)

Product (diagnostic and monitoring systems and surgical devices) Geographies: North America, Europe , Asia , and ROW

To understand more about Market Dynamics. Download our FREE sample report

According to the recent market study by Technavio, the Cardiovascular Medical Devices Market is expected to increase by USD 24.51 billion from 2021 to 2026, at an accelerated CAGR of 8.92%. The report provides a detailed analysis of drivers & opportunities, top winning strategies, competitive scenario, future market trends, market size & estimations, and major investment pockets. North America will register the highest growth rate of 38% among the other regions.

Download FREE Sample: for more additional information about the key countries in North America.

Regional Market Outlook

The Cardiovascular Medical Devices Market share growth in North America will be significant during the forecast period. The US and Canada are the key markets for cardiovascular medical devices market in North America. Market growth in this region will be faster than the growth of the market in ROW.

The increasing number of interventional cardiovascular cases to monitor and reduce CVDs is increasing the demand for cardiovascular medical devices in North America. In developed countries, such as the US and Canada, healthcare facilities are improving at a rapid pace, which increases the demand for cardiovascular medical devices. These medical facilities use technologically advanced cardiovascular medical devices to improve the quality of life, offer better patient healthcare, and minimize hospital stays. Owing to the advanced healthcare settings, such procedures can be performed in the outpatient settings of hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), and digital catheter labs. Also, the presence of reimbursement for cardiovascular interventional procedures and other procedures such as heart biopsy procedures (endomyocardial biopsy), coronary angiogram, and replacement of heart valves in a few countries increases the demand for cardiovascular medical devices.

For more key highlights on the regional market - Download our FREE sample report

Vendor Insights-

The Cardiovascular Medical Devices Market is fragmented, and the vendors are deploying growth strategies such as focusing on product delivery through multiple distribution channels to compete in the market.

Canon Inc.- The company offers Advanced cardiac echo that allows working at the forefront of cardiovascular imaging and research.

Find additional highlights on the vendors and their product offerings. Download Free Sample Report

Latest Drivers & Trends Driving the Market-

Cardiovascular Medical Devices Market Driver:

Rising incidence of cardiac diseases & the growth of insurance providers:

The rising incidence of cardiac diseases and the growth of insurance providers are some of the key drivers for supporting cardiovascular medical devices' market growth. The incidence of heart diseases is increasing in developed as well as developing countries. The prevalence of heart valve diseases is also rising due to the increased life expectancy in the elderly population. It is one of the most serious and common valve diseases and is likely to increase with advancing age. Thus, the growing prevalence of heart valve diseases such as CHD, aortic stenosis, and mitral heart valve diseases is likely to increase the demand for heart disease treatment devices, including cardiovascular medical devices. Such an increase in heart valve diseases will drive market growth during the forecast period.

Cardiovascular Medical Devices Market Trend:

Business strategies:

Business strategies to emerge in the market is another factor contributing to the cardiovascular medical devices market growth. For instance, Stryker reprocesses single-use medical devices such as cardiovascular diagnostic catheters through its department named Stryker Sustainability Solutions. Though reprocessed single-use cardiovascular medical devices can raise questions on their medical safety, the products are processed and sterilized in such a way, which decreases the chances of infection. Reprocessing of single-use cardiovascular medical devices can help to reduce the cost burden on hospitals, which also helps to reduce the cardiovascular procedure cost. Both patients and end-users (hospitals and clinics) can benefit from it. Thus, such business strategies may drive market growth during the forecast period.

Find additional information about various other market Drivers & Trends mentioned in our FREE sample report .

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Don't miss out on the opportunity to speak to our analyst and know more insights about this market report. Our analysts can also help you customize this report according to your needs. Our analysts and industry experts will work directly with you to understand your requirements and provide you with customized data in a short amount of time.

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Related Reports-

Cardiovascular Catheters Market -The cardiovascular catheters market share is expected to increase by USD 5.97 billion from 2020 to 2025, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 7.66%. Download a free sample now!

Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Market in US -The intraoperative neuromonitoring market size in the US has the potential to grow by USD 955.33 million during 2020-2024. Download a free sample now!

Cardiovascular Medical Devices Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 8.92% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 24.51 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 6.99 Regional analysis North America, Europe, Asia, and ROW Performing market contribution North America at 38% Key consumer countries US, Canada, Germany, China, and UK Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Abbott Laboratories, BIOTRONIK SE and Co. KG, Boston Scientific Corp., Canon Inc., Cardinal Health Inc., Edwards Lifesciences Corp., General Electric Co., Medtronic Plc, Siemens AG, and W. L. Gore & Associates 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.

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Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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SEATTLE  Among the thousands of mail-in ballots that were rejected in Washington State during the 2020 election, auditors have found that the votes of Black residents were thrown out four times as often as those of white voters.

The rejections, all of them because of problematic signatures, disqualified one out of every 40 mail-in votes from Black people  a finding that already is causing concern amid the national debate over voter access and secure balloting. Washington, a state with broad experience in mail-in balloting, found that rejection rates were also elevated for Native American, Hispanic, and Asian and Pacific Islander voters.

State officials said there were no signs that ballots cast by Black or other minority voters were knowingly singled out by poll workers, or that any of the ballots were deliberately falsified; the rejections were a result of signatures that were missing or did not match those on file, a possible result, the officials said, of voter inexperience, language problems or other factors.
An area group that supports various causes in Schuyler held an annual event on Jan. 29 to continue supporting nonprofits.

The Central Nebraska Chapter of Whitetails Unlimited held its yearly banquet at the Columbus American Legion. The group is based in Columbus but continually gives to Schuyler causes.

Whitetails Unlimited is a national nonprofit founded in 1982 whose goal is conservation, according to its website.

Most recently, Whitetails donated funds to Schuyler Fire-Rescue and the Schuyler Food and Toy Drive, during which toy and food items are collected for families and children in need during the holiday season. Whitetails group members also regularly volunteer during the drives distribution day, which is held in December. A few months ago, Whitetails also supported the Colfax County Sheriffs Offices Pink Patch Project, which raises money for a nonprofit cancer support organization.

The majority of funds raised by the Central Nebraska chapter stays local.

We do a lot of different things with our money, said Whitetails Unlimited Regional Director Saul Soltero. We raise money for conservation. We've given money to the Schuyler Food and Toy Drive. We've given money to the Schuyler volunteer fire department, we give money to the Columbus Police Department. We do a lot of youth sports, a lot of veterans events. So the money goes a long way.

The banquet saw a good crowd on Jan. 29 and there were plenty of opportunities to win prizes, participate in the silent auction and enjoy a catered meal.

We have lots of games and guns, Soltero said. By the looks of we're going to give away about 50 guns tonight. So it's a nice celebration of the Second Amendment.

And, by the look of all the event attendees filling the American Legion, the group was well supported on Jan. 29.

We sold out at 320 (tickets), Soltero added. So that's good, it's a great crowd. We're excited about that.

Whitetails head committee member Adam Lindgren noted that this years banquet was one of the most attended ones.

We've had the most people in the room we've ever had, Lindgren said. It's been a good night. People seem to be having fun. It's good to see everybody coming out and enjoying themselves.

Some of those attending the banquet included members of Schuyler Fire-Rescue. Firefighter Joey Kroeger said he regularly attends the annual event.

We've got a good group of people that we come with every year and it's good to get out here, raise money for the future deer hunters and for us ourselves that are deer hunters. And we know where the money is going, it's staying local, Kroeger said.

Kroeger also noted the recent donation Whitetails made to the rescue squad.

It was a pretty substantial donation and it helps big time we're able to buy gear, new nozzles for trucks, he added.
The IFSO unit of Special Cell busted a gang of cheaters who used to dupe innocent persons on the pretext of providing tantrik solutions to their personal problems. Two persons -- Tanish and Gaurav -- have been arrested from Rajasthan and Punjab, said a press release. A woman complainant, a resident of Keshav Puram of Delhi, had filed a complaint with Cyber Crime Unit that she had been cheated by some Tantriks on the pretext of performing rituals. She was having some personal issues in her life and career due to which she was feeling depressed and suffering from anxiety. Out of curiosity, she was surfing the web when she came across a web page operating in the name of Amrita Devi and through the contact details on the webpage, she contacted the fraudsters who were pretending to be the Tantrik capable of solving all the problems. The complainant discussed her life issues with the alleged persons in hope of having any solution through any ritual/pooja. The alleged person assured her that he can resolve her each and every problem through his mystic powers. The tantric / priest assured her that the tantrik rituals will cost Rs 24 lakh. In order to get rid of her life problems, she agreed to the rituals and gave payments in instalments. Gradually, the Tantrik lured the complainant to part away Rs 24 lakh. The complainant didn't find any relief and asked for the reason. Then, the alleged persons told her that the God/Devtas are asking for a human sacrifice or some further rituals need to be done which would cost Rs 20 lakh or more. At that time, the complainant realised that she was duped of her money. Accordingly, a case was registered at PS-Special Cell and an investigation was taken up. During the course of the investigation, the technical analysis and the money trail analysis was carried out and thereafter, manual intelligence was developed. The alleged persons were located at Chabal Kalan, Taran Taran, Punjab and Mandrella, Rajasthan. The operation was carried out by the team under the supervision of Raman Lamba, ACP, comprising SI Manoj Kumar, SI Manjeet, HC Randeep, HC Ravinder, constable Veer Pratap and constable Hukum. Later, raids were conducted in Mandrella (Rajasthan) and Taran Taran (Punjab). The accused persons, namely Tanish Kumar and Gaurav Bhargav, were arrested. Based on the information provided by them, the mobile numbers and devices used in crime were also recovered from them. During the interrogation, the accused, Tanish and Gaurav, revealed that they are cousin brothers. Their families are engaged in astrology since generations. Their parents also have astrology shops in Chabhal Kalan (Punjab) and Mandrela (Rajasthan). Due to COVID-19, they were not having any clients. Thus, they started their profession and provided astrology services online. Through the Google search engine optimisation, Tanish had posted his number and their contact number was reflected at the top of google search whenever anyone searched for any astrological help regarding their life issues. The police confiscated seven debit cards and two cheque books and froze their bank accounts. Further investigation is on. (ANI)
After winning local VFW competitions, two students and two teachers went on to win district honors and even one state award for patriotic essays and instruction.

Marion Senior High School teacher Jason McClure won High School Teacher of the Year for Smyth County in the VFW Post 4667 competition in December. McClure went on to win first place in the district for Virginia VFW and was presented first place in state competition for High School Teacher of the Year (9-12).

McClure is believed to be the first teacher from Smyth County to win this state award from the VFW. He was accompanied by family members and VFW Post 4667 members as he accepted the award in Portsmouth.

Being chosen as the Virginia VFW High School Teacher of the Year was most certainly an honor of a lifetime, said McClure. The trip to Portsmouth for the state awards banquet was one that my family and I will remember for the rest of our lives.

On how he felt about winning the awards, McClure said, For me personally it doesnt get any better than the VFW. Everything that the organization stands for, and everything that they do for communities across America, is second to none. I am especially happy for VFW Post 4667 in getting this recognition. I always say that Marion is one of the most patriotic towns in America and much of that is due to the work of the local VFW. I would like to say a special thank you to Lynn White [retired teacher] for nominating me.

When asked what inspires him to teach his students about citizenship and patriotic history, McClure said, I guess you could say that my love of history and civics is originally what first made me want to get into public education. I have been a very patriotic person all of my life and I firmly believe that we live in the greatest nation in the world. Its all due to the service and sacrifices made by veterans throughout the course of our nations history so that we can enjoy the high standard of living and the blessings of freedom that we have today.

I enjoy helping others and teaching them what it means to be an American, McClure said. I believe that Ronald Reagan stated it best in his farewell address. On the importance of civic knowledge and informed patriotism, Reagan stated: If we forget what we did, then we wont know who we are. I always tell seniors that when they graduate, that they are a blank sheet of paper and that they get to write their own story. Thats the beautiful thing about America.

Samantha Powers, English Composition teacher at Chilhowie Middle School, was named Middle School Teacher of the Year in the VFW Post 4667 competition and placed second in the Virginia VFW district competition for Middle School Teacher of the Year.

I am very honored to be selected for this award, McClure said. I have so much respect for our servicemen and women. I am flattered that they felt I was worthy of this recognition.

When asked what inspires her to teach her students about citizenship and patriotic history, Powers said, The world we live in is filled with so much negativity and close-minded ideas. I always strive to teach my students about our patriotic history and our nation's virtues so that they can realize what a privilege it is to be an American. Oftentimes, students take all of our liberties and freedoms for granted. It is important to me to make sure they realize what kinds of sacrifices were made so that we can be the greatest nation in the world.

Powers is the teacher of Allyson Gutierrez, who placed first at the local and district levels for her Patriots Pen essay.

Winning this award has made me feel very blessed and humbled, Gutierrez said. I feel nothing but great gratitude towards my teachers, peers, family, friends, and every single person in my life. All the people in my life have done nothing but help me grow in many different ways. I appreciate every single act of compassion because it has helped form who I am today. I greatly value everyone who has helped me create this essay because I wouldn't be here without them.

When asked what inspired her to participate in the Patriots Pen essay competition, Gutierrez said, The opportunity to express myself. I love this country because it has welcomed me with wide arms. This nation has opened so many doors for me, and appreciated my work and hard efforts. I wanted to show my gratitude for its kindness. The people here have shown nothing but hospitality, cordialness, and goodwill.

Some people who inspired me might not even know me, Gutierrez said. How? Well, veterans, the elderly, policemen, and many other people helped me write this essay. They were my inspiration because sometimes they go unnoticed or forgotten. I do not wish for their sacrifices, dedication, and valiance to be unappreciated. They have done things many of us would never even think of doing because of how dangerous it is. I want for all to appreciate them, see their devotion to this country, and get the respect they deserve. I hope they know how much we value their commitment and diligence that they have shown our nation.

Berkley Stewart, a Northwood Middle School student, placed second place locally and at the district level for his essay in Patriots Pen.

Im very grateful for it, he said of the award. Im very honored to receive it. It was a very big surprise to hear the essay continued to district.

As for his inspiration to enter the competition, Stewart said, I felt it was a good way to honor Americas veterans.

Angela Thomas, Stewarts English 7 teacher, said It's a wonderful feeling to see one of your students being honored for their efforts. Berkley is an excellent student who strives to do his best at all times. He deserves to be recognized for his effort and dedication to his studies. He makes Northwood Middle School proud.

It is critical that students comprehend the significance of respecting our country and other citizens, Thomas added. Children who learn about patriotism and citizenship grow into knowledgeable, active citizens.

Coordinators of the local VFW competition who also accompanied McClure to the state awards presentation include Sam Rosenbaum, Commander Post 4667; Wanda Owens, president Auxiliary Post 4667; Penny Johnson, 9th District president; and Herbert Turk Johnson, former post commander.
As light snow fell across the City of Buffalo Thursday morning and more expected, Public Works crews had plowed the majority of the city's main and secondary roads at least once as of 10 a.m., said Michael Finn, the city's commissioner of Public Works.

"The condition of the streets in general are OK," but snow fighting is an ongoing effort, he said.

"This snow is not going to stop until late tonight, so it's going to be a continual effort of just driving all around mains and secondaries all across the city and continually redoing them similar to every one with their driveways," he said.

The city reached out to New York State and Erie County for additional help fighting the snow. County crews are assisting the city on Delaware and Elmwood avenues, Finn said. As of Thursday morning, the state was not helping, but the two sides will keep in touch.

"The state can really help us when the snow is just hitting the city. This is an equal opportunity storm so as of this moment we aren't having any help from the state, but we're going to maintain an ongoing conversation," Finn said.

City spokesman Michael DeGeorge said crews started last night into the overnight hours pre-salting main and secondary roads before the snow began. Crews are also in residential areas plowing and removing snow from previous storms that froze due to the cold temperatures.

A check of about 10 residential streets in the North and Delaware Council Districts  which saw most of the accumulation from the last storm, Finn has said  were passable. It was obvious a snow plow had been down each one.

Ahead of the storm, the city sent a message to residents through its BuffAlert system, reminding people alternate side parking is in effect on all 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. streets. All cars must park legally.

As next winter storm nears, Buffalo promises strict parking enforcement for plows In Buffalo, Mayor Byron Brown said the city has taken a lesson from the last snowfall that dropped some 2 feet on metro Buffalo on Martin Luther King Day. While main roads were mostly kept clear during and after the storm, many residential side streets went untouched by plows for days.

Mini-tows may be used to allow for snow cleanup at owners expense. During extreme weather conditions, vehicles blocking fire hydrants, crosswalks, driveways as well as abandoned and illegally parked vehicles will be mini-towed, not impounded, as long as there is an available legal parking space within 500 feet.

The city is taking the step following widespread criticism of snow removal efforts on side streets during a recent storm that dumped nearly 2 feet on most of the region.

There is a $40 fee for each mini-tow, according to the Buffalo Police Departments Manual of Procedures.

Buffalo residents are urged to sign up for the citys BuffAlert notifications. The text and email alerts include critical weather, parking and other public service announcements.

Sign up by texting JoinBuffAlert to 38276.
It's still too soon to say whether the COVID-19 omicron variant surge  which has set case count records and killed scores of residents here  has peaked in Knox County. The downward trend detected in other parts of Tennessee has not been observed in new cases here.

A disturbing number of Knox County residents died in one week: 30. From the first of the year through Jan. 29, 79 county residents have died.

The majority of people hospitalized were not vaccinated for COVID-19. Free vaccines and boosters are widely available at pharmacies and health departments.

Early on, the omicron variant got this reputation for being not that severe, Dr. James Shamiyeh, senior vice president at UT Medical Center, said in a Facebook video. We feel that this has been the most challenging wave of the entire pandemic, he said, citing the overwhelming number of cases on top of health care staff fatigue.

On Friday, 170 patients were hospitalized for COVID-19 at UT Medical Center. That number is more than double the patients who were being treated around the new year.

Shauni Warnack collects a sample from patients lined up for COVID-19 testing at Grassy Valley Baptist Church on Jan. 14.

Shamiyeh said there was some good news in that it was possible that Memphis had passed the peak of the omicron wave. Statewide, the omicron wave appears to have declined.

But that trend hasn't reached East Tennessee.

COVID-19 Statewide: CDC: Tennessee's COVID-19 infections drop for the first time in omicron wave

A spokesperson for the Knox County Health Department said new cases are dipping slightly, which is "encouraging," but its too soon to say whether the county has hit a peak or even heading toward a downward trend.

Local daily data is no longer available to the public due to changes in the data publishing schedule for Knox County and the state health department.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, new Tennessee cases have declined 10% from the week before. While this is encouraging, statewide trends have often been out of step with local numbers.

Story continues

Julissa Sohedad receives a COVID-19 dose from Berlain Hatfield at a vaccine clinic sponsored by New Direction Health Care Solutions at the John T. O'Connor Senior Center in Knoxville on Jan. 29.

Knoxville's pandemic peaks have typically lagged behind Memphis and Nashville by several weeks, though the severity varies. In some periods, Knoxville's stats have been better than the other cities in Tennessee. In December 2020, though, Knoxville was the hottest hotspot in the country for a city of its size.

Where's the data?: 'Terrible timing': Health experts decry Knox County's reduction in reporting COVID-19 data

"Our regional hospital census of COVID-19 patients are still rising," said Shamiyeh in a Facebook video published Wednesday. "At this particular moment it's one of the fastest rates in the state because other areas are plateaued or dropping."

What does Knox County look like?

While Knox County did not top the previous week's case record in the new numbers released Wednesday, cases remained high. The seven-day average, which looks at the trend over the past week, broke 1,000 new cases a day, the highest this trend has ever been over the course of the pandemic.

Active cases declined by about 800 from the previous week to roughly 13,800. This may indicate that the rate of growth has slowed but not enough to indicate a downward overall trend. Roughly one out of nine of all cases during the pandemic have occurred in the past two weeks.

Signs of hospital system strain

As of Saturday, 659 people were hospitalized for COVID-19 across the 11-county Knoxville hospital district. According to data from the Tennessee Hospital Association, that is second highest number of raw COVID-19 hospitalizations in the entire state, which is behind Nashville by about 200 cases.

This level of hospitalization is almost what was seen at the peak of the delta variant. Back then, Knoxville had roughly 760 concurrent hospitalizations for COVID-19, according to the Tennessee Hospital Association.

During the delta wave, this put a clear strain on hospital resources, not just in terms of bed space but hospital staff hours. Signs of this are beginning to show now.

According to the federal Health and Human Services hospital tracking hub, many area hospitals including had less than a quarter of hospital beds and ICU beds available. UT Medical center was at 11% capacity remaining. Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center and Tennova Healthcare North Knoxville were operating with less than 10% capacity available.

According to data from the Knox County Health Department, only a single ICU bed was available within the Knoxville Hospital District on Saturday.

This situation will likely get better once the peak passes the Knoxville region. Shamiyeh said that once the peak passed in Memphis, hospitals saw a 30% reduction in COVID-19 patients within about two weeks.

"We do expect the hospital situation to improve but it's not going to happen overnight," Shamiyeh said. "So just because the cases have started to drop does not mean the risk has gone away."

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Omicron wave in Knox County may not have peaked as dozens die
A meeting of the foreign ministers of the countries is expected to be held later this month in Melbourne, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

The foreign ministers of Quad, comprising India, the US, Australia and Japan, had last met virtually in February 2021.

"The next meeting is expected to be held later this month in . We hope to share an update with you on this soon," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at a media briefing.

In March last year, US President Joe Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the leaders in the virtual format that was followed by an in-person summit in Washington in September for which Prime Minister Narendra Modi had travelled to the US.

The has been focusing on cooperation in areas such as producing vaccines, connectivity projects, facilitating the mobility of students, and looking at promoting startups and technology collaboration.

To a separate question on shipment of 50,000 tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan via Pakistan, Bagchi said the process is underway.

"The government is committed to extending humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan. We have been sharing information about the shipment of medicines and vaccines. The process to procure the wheat and its transportation is still underway," he said.

Afghan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay said on Wednesday that India's humanitarian aid of 50,000 tonnes of wheat to the Afghan people is likely to be transported to Afghanistan from next week, and the delivery is set to be completed in a month's time.

India had sent a proposal to Pakistan on October 7 seeking the transit facility to send 50,000 tonnes of wheat to the people of Afghanistan via Pakistani soil, and it received a positive response from Islamabad on November 24.

Following the Pakistani response, both sides were in touch to finalise the modalities for the transportation of the shipments.

(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.)
ST. LOUIS  The midweek snowstorm has school leaders, already stressed by COVID-19, making tough decisions about holding classes online or taking traditional snow days.

On Jan. 26, St. Louis Public Schools Superintendent Kelvin Adams wrote to his staff that he likely would call off school in the event of a snow day because the district has eight extra days in the bank. But when the weather forecast indicated the possibility of three missed days this week, district leaders pivoted to virtual learning, causing frustration among teachers and families eager for a break.

At SLPS, we need to provide as many opportunities for our students to receive quality instruction as possible particularly given the number of quarantine days weve had to work through over the past few weeks, said district spokesman George Sells. When it comes to keeping our students education on track, its important that we take advantage of every single day.

The decision to take a snow day, once an easy call, has taken on new complexities in this second winter of the coronavirus pandemic. Several days traditionally are built into school calendars in case of bad weather. But more than a dozen school districts already took off two or three mental health days around Thanksgiving because of pandemic-related stress.

And since returning from winter break, staffing shortages and student absences have forced some schools to make a temporary switch to virtual learning, which is limited to 36 hours per year under Missouri law.

The calculus means schools could have to make up days at the end of the year, particularly since another state law requires a start date no earlier than 14 days before Labor Day.

Its not as straightforward as one district wants kids to go out and play and another district wants kids inside learning virtually, said Hancock Place Superintendent Kevin Carl.

At least one school, Lucas Crossing Elementary in Normandy, has used up its virtual learning time but still has a few snow days before having to extend the year. Fort Zumwalt in St. Charles County will have to make up at least two days because it took snow days Wednesday and Thursday.

About 30 local school superintendents held a call Tuesday afternoon to discuss the next days plan. Nine of the districts decided to hold virtual classes. In a rare move, the announcements were made before any precipitation had fallen to counteract the uncertainty of this school year, Carl said.

School will not be held in-person again on Thursday, with more snow in the forecast.

Virtual school on a snowy day is not popular with students or teachers, according to anecdotes on social media. One teacher at Gateway STEM High School in SLPS reported student attendance was well below 50%. Some parents said their children would cite internet issues as an excuse not to log on.

Districts including Hancock Place and Parkway planned a combination approach  no classes for the first three to five snow days and virtual learning on any subsequent bad weather days. University Citys elementary and middle schools were off Wednesday, but the high school was virtual.

School leaders are hoping the next few months will bring a reprieve from bad weather and more COVID-19 waves, Carl said.

This year has been a lot harder than people thought it was going to be, he said.

Originally posted at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 2.
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC (LSE:BMY) chief executive Nigel Newton said a strong part of the companys success is down to editors selecting the "books of the moment" that people really want to read.

Last week's annual profits were said to be materially ahead of market forecasts as sales in recent months came in higher than expected (read more).

Newton acknowledged the role that pandemic played in changing habits.

Reading has been such a feature of the two-year-old pandemic and it's continuing even though society is opening up again, and retail outlets are all there selling books extremely well as online outlets continue to do as well, he said.

But he also stressed that a strong element of the companys outperformance was publishing the right books that people wanted to read.

Newton drew specific focus to the fiction book Violeta by Isabel Allende, which follows a woman coming of age in a period just after the Spanish Flu, and non-fiction title Stolen Focus by Johann Hari, which addresses how weve all lost our minds to our telephones.

Both books are extremely relevant to the ongoing pandemic, but Newton does not anticipate a let-off in reading as society returns to normality.

If anything, we're seeing an intensification of sales, he told Proactive (watch video).

The pandemic lockdowns created an unprecedented showcase for the act of reading itself [as] people started reading again as they tired of watching too many movies on television.

And I think they're not going to let it go out of their lives again.

Newton said Bloomsbury is not resting on its laurels, with further acquisitions and growth prospects in the pipeline.

We are actively on the acquisition trail with our considerable amounts of ready cash to make those purchases.

We've undertaken considerable expansion plans on all sides of our business to underpin a really ambitious growth programme, Newton told Proactive
DAYTON, Ohio (Tribune News Service)  Dayton formally welcomed Sierra Nevada Corp. Wednesday, celebrating the defense contractor, its planned investment and the 147 jobs it will create in an operation that will modify and maintain large military aircraft, the first project of its kind in Dayton in nearly 75 years.

"Sierra Nevada is betting on Ohio, and Ohio will not let you down," J.P. Nauseef, president and chief executive of JobsOhio, the state's private development arm, said at a gathering at Dayton International Airport.

Though Sierra Nevada, or SNC, already has an office at Dayton International, the planned expansion has been quietly in the works for months, with the Dayton-Montgomery County Port Authority taking action to support it in September and the city of Dayton making similar moves in December.

It wasn't until Monday that the tenant for the project was revealed, when Ohio government and Sierra Nevada jointly announced the airport as the company's future home for two aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul hangars, to be built in two phases.

Modifying and updating large military aircraft is an increasingly crucial job as the United States and its aging Air Force fleet face rival powers China and Russia, said Fatih Ozmen, the Sierra Nevada chief executive and co-owner who celebrated his birthday Wednesday in Dayton.

In fact, given the presence nearby of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base  the base responsible for cradle-to-grave management of so many Air Force planes and weapons systems  Ozmen recalled his surprise that a large privately run maintenance operation was not already operating in Dayton.

"This is the right place to go the next step," he said.

The company has five hangars in Colorado Springs, Colo., and SNC leaders have noted there is room to grow at the Dayton airport.

"I think this is just the beginning of the partnership," Ozmen said.

SNC is looking for "highly skilled and experienced" workers for its maintenance operation at Dayton International, said Mark Williams, senior vice president strategy for the company.

"Job listings will include A&P (airframe and power plant) mechanics, avionic technicians, engineering technicians, structural technicians, production planners, administrative and logistics staff, operations managers, warehouse managers and more," Williams said in response to questions from the Dayton Daily News. "The plan is to hire 90-plus people for the first hangar alone."

Most of the new employees will be local and new to the company, Williams said.

Construction on the first hangar has started.

Pay for the positions will be competitive, Williams said. Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, also speaking in Dayton Wednesday, said the positions will offer "at least $35 an hour.

"SNC's total rewards package includes a broad range of benefits, services and programs developed to support professional, personal and financial well-being, including an industry-leading 401(k) with 150% employer match up to 8%," he said.

Once available, openings will be posted on the SNC careers website at sncorp.com/careers.

Williams said the company will also work with Montgomery County to find employees.

Dayton was attractive to Sierra Nevada for many reasons, Williams said.

He cited "easy access to a critical supply chain infrastructure with the state of Ohio being one of the top aviation suppliers."

From a construction standpoint, the airport in Dayton offered an existing ramp infrastructure, was relatively flat and had easy access to utilities, Williams also said.

"All these items are beneficial when picking a hangar location," he said.

He and Gov. Mike DeWine also noted that the airport is close to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, home to Air Force Materiel Command, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Air Force Research Lab and other critical Air Force missions.

He added: "Finally, the state of Ohio, JobsOhio, Dayton Development Coalition, Montgomery County and city of Dayton provided numerous incentives that helped solidify our decision."

(c)2022 the Dayton Daily News (Dayton, Ohio)

Visit the Dayton Daily News (Dayton, Ohio) at www.daytondailynews.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
WISTON, England, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading component solutions company and aviation experts Artemis Aerospace has launched a new website and promotional video as it looks to strengthen its brand position across the business's range of services.

Jim Scott, Owner, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Artemis Aerospace

The company, which was established in 1999 by Jim and Deborah Scott, operates a 24/7 service from its headquarters in West Sussex, UK. Its flexible and solution-led approach has earned the company an enviable reputation for outstanding customer service across multiple disciplines, including component supplies, component repairs, lessor support, flight simulation hardware support, consignment stock management and global aircraft logistics.

Jim Scott, Owner, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Artemis Aerospace, said:

"This is an exciting time for Artemis Aerospace as we look to strengthen our existing operations, build our global base of customers and reinforce our already extensive network of MROs, OEMs and aftermarket suppliers. We founded the business with the desire to do things differently. This means we offer more than replacement parts. Instead, we proactively problem solve on behalf of our customers and provide them with a range of realistic options so they can make informed choices about the best and most appropriate solution."

"We are delighted to be looking to the future with the launch of our new website and video, which underpins our commitment to continue delivering unrivalled customer service, exceptional support and outstanding solutions."

To find out more about Artemis Aerospace, visit https://www.artemisaerospace.com/.

Artemis Aerospace offers an innovative approach to component solutions for the aviation sector. Established in 1999, the company has earned a reputation for outstanding customer service by solving problems and providing a range of realistic options that offer customers the flexibility and freedom to choose a solution that suits their timescale and budget. Its services include component supplies, component repairs, lessor support, flight simulation hardware support, consignment stock management and global aircraft logistics.

With decades of expertise in global aviation logistics, the expert team works with trusted MROs, OEMs, and aftermarket suppliers around the world to offer 24/7 support to its global customer base.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1739852/Artemis_Aerospace_Jim_Scott.jpg

SOURCE Artemis Aerospace
Representatives of some French companies interested in expanding their business or investments in Romania discussed, on Wednesday, with the Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Tourism of Romania, Corneliu Cirstea, during the visit paid by the MEDEF International delegation, the largest employers' federation in France.

According to a press release issued by the relevant ministry on Thursday, the French companies in the delegation presented their intentions to expand or initiate investments in Romania in areas such as transport and logistics, tourism, road and rail infrastructure, urban planning, water management, agriculture, aerospace and defense, energy, digitization and innovation, the insurance sector, Agerpres.ro informs.

Present at the meeting, MEDEF President Geoffroy Roux de Bezieux was accompanied by other representatives of the organization and members of the French Embassy in Bucharest.

During the meeting, the Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Tourism praised the good cooperation with the business environment in France and appreciated the high level of investment of top French companies in Romania, as well as the high level of bilateral trade and trade surplus - indicator of the appreciation of the quality of the Romanian products on the French market.

The Deputy Secretary-General also communicated to the French side the existence of a significant potential for enhancing bilateral cooperation and referred to the measures taken by the Government to improve the business climate, mentioning the sectors of major importance for Romania towards which the joint efforts for boosting economic cooperation should be directed.

In order to take advantage of these opportunities, Corneliu Cirstea proposed the organization of several promotional events in France aimed at bringing to the attention of the French business environment the current attractive economic realities in Romania.

The French team highlighted both the importance of the economic dimension in the bilateral relationship and the collaboration at European level, and expressed their interest in exploring investment opportunities in Romania.

The two delegations agreed to intensify future cooperation so as to take advantage of bilateral trade and investment opportunities.

France is Romania's sixth largest trading partner and the third largest destination for Romanian exports. In the first ten months of 2021, trade between the two countries amounted to 7.4 billion euros, with a surplus for Romania of 549 million euros.

In terms of investments in Romania, France ranks 6th, with a subscribed share capital of 2.38 billion euros and actual investments exceeding 7 billion euros. According to National Trade Registry Office (ONRC), in December 2021, as many as 10,140 companies with French capital were registered in Romania.
Populations of primitive cells emerging at the fractures of the mineral eclogite. Credit: Dr Irep Gozen

New research by the University of Oslo provides experimental evidence that populations of ancient primitive cells could have autonomously assembled on minerals under early Earth conditions, and on the ancient crust of Mars.

Today's laboratory models of the most primitive ancient cells, often referred to as 'protocells' which could have initiated the development of life approximately 4 billion years ago, typically consist of soft spherical lipid capsules freely suspended in water. These models well explain initial, but not subsequent steps in the development towards substructured protocells, such as the formation of inner compartments, or possible sharing of internal components among different individual units.

In a recently accepted article in the journal ChemSystemsChem, a team of researchers from the University of Oslo, University of Colorado and University of Copenhagen, show the autonomous development of prebiotic compartments on thin sections of natural surfaces, one of them obtained from the martian meteorite NWA 7533 "Black beauty."

For their experiments, the researchers brought small unordered lipid droplets suspended in water in contact with natural surfaces, and observed the interactions under a high resolution light microscope. Lipids are thought to be among the earliest organic molecules on the early Earth.

Nano-size tubular 'highways' formed between protocells on the mineral olivine. Credit: Dr Irep Gozen

They observed the spontaneous formation of extraordinary protocell morphologies on the natural surfaces, predominantly dense agglomerates of primitive cells, including protocell networks interconnected by nano-size tubular 'highways'. The protocell populations were shown to grow mostly at the fractures of the investigated natural surfaces, and remain there intact for several days.

The researchers have earlier discovered that the intrinsic energy of naturally occurring surfaces, which were abundant on the early Earth, could have been utilized by lipid reservoirs to autonomously transform to primitive membrane shells of molecular thickness. Since biochemical fuel molecules used by modern cells today most likely did not exist on the early Earth, this source of energy, which is large enough to cause simple molecular rearrangements, might have had a critical role in the formation of robust surface-bound protocell communities. Such populations of interconnected individual protocells can easily transfer internalized constituents, thus communicate chemically, and also better resist harsh environmental conditions.

Similar results observed on a Martian meteorite sample, which represents a very early period in the development of the red planet where water was most likely present, provides evidence that self-formation of primitive cells on Mars is also a distinct possibility, and can perhaps complement the anticipated findings of the robotic missions by Perseverance and Ingenuity.

Protocell agglomerates formed on martian meteorite NWA 7533 Black beauty. Credit: Dr Irep Gozen

The pre-biotic bubbles which are sticking on the solid supports can open small pores for very short times and take in the genetic polymer RNA through the pores. RNA can self-replicate and is hypothesized to exist at the origin of life before DNA and proteins.

The researchers' findings support the 'Lipid World', a hypothetical stage in early evolution during which lipids played multiple key roles simultaneously, including compartment formation, collective self-reproduction and compositional inheritance.

The formation of protocell populations on natural surfaces could have been the starting point of a feasible route towards the transformation from non-living to living entities.

Explore further Scientists discover how surfaces may have helped early life on Earth begin

More information: Elif Koksal et al, Spontaneous formation of prebiotic compartment colonies on Hadean Earth and preNoachian Mars, ChemSystemsChem (2021). Elif Koksal et al, Spontaneous formation of prebiotic compartment colonies on Hadean Earth and preNoachian Mars,(2021). DOI: 10.1002/syst.202100040
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Abuja launched the Revised National Policy on Population for Sustainable Development, stressing the need for urgent measures to address Nigerias high fertility rate, through expanding access to modern contraceptive methods across the country.

The president also inaugurated the National Council on Population Management (NCPM), chaired by him, and the Vice President as the deputy chairman with heads of relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as members.

Speaking on the countrys revised population policy, the president said its overall goal is to improve the quality of life and standards of living of all Nigerians, which is one of the major aspirations of this government

The policy emphasizes the urgency to address Nigerias sustained high fertility rate, through expanding access to modern family planning, counselling and commodities as well as promote births spacing.

This will enable Nigeria to achieve rapid fertility control, improve the health of women, adolescents, new born and children, and other population groups, he said.

President Buhari noted that Nigerias population, which is the largest in Africa, seventh globally and among the few whose fertility is still growing, is hinged on a youthful population, with more than 72 per cent of them being below 30 years while half of the female population are in their reproductive years (15-49 years).

These levels have implications for sustained population growth and narrowed prospects to achieving population management, facilitating sufficient demographic transition, harnessing our demographic endowment and eventually realizing sustainable development, he said.

On other highlights of the revised population policy, the president explained that it underscores the importance of investing in quality education of young people (particularly girls), human capital development, advancing holistic effort to achieve significant demographic transition.

The Revised Population Policy is rich with all necessary information that will guide the implementation of Nigerias Mid-term and Perspective Development Plan.

It will further address concerns of the large population of young people who are our pride, our future and assets to drive our development efforts.

Noting that the implementation of the policy would require credible, reliable, timely, robust, geo-referenced and well disaggregated data, President Buhari expressed confidence that the data generated from the forthcoming census, will provide all the information needed for the successful implementation of the new policy.

Chairman, National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Kwarra, urged Nigerians to embrace the noble ideals of Planned Parenthood and healthy reproductive behaviours enunciated in the policy.

Enumerating some salient issues in relation to the population policy, Mr Kwarra noted that the reviewed policy is the product of extensive consultations and nationwide engagements with key stakeholders and interest groups.

He said the groups cut across government sectoral ministries at national and states levels, civil society organisations, development partners, researchers, the media and the organised private sector.

On the NCPM, the NPC Chairman said the body is key in the implementation of the revised policy, saying in addition to providing strategic direction in the implementation process, the Council will hopefully advocate for and support the conduct of the population and housing census, thus providing accurate and up-to-date data to guide the implementation of the Policy.

In his goodwill message, the UN Resident Coordinator, Nigeria, Matthias Schmale, expressed confidence that the policy launched by President Buhari was bound to be successful for several reasons.

Firstly, the Policy brings to the forefront the linkages between population and development and will inform work and services to improve the well-being and lives of Nigerians.

Secondly, the Policy is coming on the heels of the recently launched 2021-2025 National Development Plan which focuses on making Nigeria the greatest economy in Africa and even more of a force to reckon with in the world.

Thirdly, the successful implementation of the National Policy will very likely have positive implications for maternal health development, youth and adolescent rights and the empowerment of women and the girl child, the top UN official in Nigeria said.

Commending the Nigerian government for launching the policy, Mr Schmale said the world and UN look forward to a Nigeria with low maternal mortality; low teenage pregnancy and childbirth; reduced fertility rate, increased utilisation of modern contraceptive methods and high education attainment, among others.

He pledged that United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which is responsible for providing support for the generation of quality data, will continue to work with the NPC to help ensure that Nigerias forthcoming census meets local and international standards and acceptability.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

February 3, 2022
WASHINGTON  The U.S. accused the Kremlin on Thursday of an elaborate plot to fabricate an attack by Ukrainian forces that Russia could use as a pretext to take military action against its neighbor.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said the scheme included production of a graphic propaganda video that would show staged explosions and use corpses and actors depicting grieving mourners.

The U.S. has not provided detailed information backing up the claims.

The plan for a fake attack on Russian territory or Russian-speaking people was described in declassified intelligence shared with Ukrainian officials and European allies in recent days. It was the latest example of the Biden administration divulging intelligence findings as a tactic to attempt to stop Russian disinformation efforts and foil what it says is Russian President Vladimir Putins effort to lay the groundwork for military action. If Russia does invade, administration officials say they want to make clear Russia had always sought to create a pretext.

In recent weeks, the White House has said that U.S. intelligence shows Russia has launched a malign social media disinformation campaign against Ukraine and has dispatched operatives trained in explosives to carry out acts of sabotage against Russias own proxy forces. Britain has divulged intelligence findings that it says show Russia plotting to install a pro-Russian puppet government in Ukraine.

Weve seen these kinds of activity by the Russians in the past, and we believe its important when we see it like this and and we can, to call it out, Kirby told reporters at the Pentagon.

The administration has repeatedly declined to detail evidence underlying its intelligence findings. State Department spokesman Ned Price said Thursday the administration needed to protect sensitive sources and intelligence gathering methods.

He added we declassify information only when were confident in that information.

Meanwhile on Thursday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered to mediate talks between Russia and Ukraine, and NATO warned that Moscows military buildup continues, with more troops and military equipment deployed to neighboring Belarus than at any time in the last 30 years.

Erdogan, who has close but sometimes difficult ties with Putin, said Turkey was prepared to undertake its part in order to end the crisis between two friendly nations that are its neighbors in the Black Sea.

I have stressed that we would be happy to host a summit meeting at a leadership level or technical level talks, Erdogan said after about three hours of talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Instead of fueling the fire, we act with the logical aim of reducing the tensions.

Russia has amassed more than 100,000 troops near Ukraines northern and eastern borders, raising concern that Moscow might invade again, as it did in 2014. The troop presence and uncertainty have unnerved Ukrainians and hurt the countrys economy. Russian officials deny that an invasion is planned.

Zelenskyy welcomed Erdogans offer and thanked him for his firm and consistent support.

The crisis has put Turkey in a fix, leaving it in a position where it has to balance its growing partnership with Ukraine with its difficult relations with Moscow. Ankara, which has historic ties to Ukraine and ethnic bonds with its Crimean Tatar community, strongly opposed Russias 2014 annexation of Crimea.

At the same time, Turkey would be reluctant to joint in any sanctions against Russia. With a struggling economy, the country has pinned its hopes on tourism revenue, especially from visitors from Russia. It also relies on Russia for much of its natural gas.

The U.S. said the new intelligence indicates that the Russians would stage military equipment used by Ukraine, including a key weapon supplied by Turkey, a NATO member, to bolster the credibility of a fake attack.

Russia would possibly use Turkish-made Bayraktar drones as part of the fake operation, according to a senior administration official who was not authorized to comment and spoke on the condition of anonymity. The drones have been used by Ukraine against pro-Russia separatists in the Donbas region, a move that angered Moscow, which has made clear it is strongly opposed to Ukraine being equipped with the technology.

Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron spoke again Thursday, their third call in less than a week. The Kremlin said in a statement that they continued a detailed dialogue about the situation around Ukraine and added that Putin drew Macrons attention to provocative statements and actions by the Ukrainian leadership.

At NATO headquarters, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned that Russian troop numbers in Belarus are likely to climb to 30,000, with the backing of special forces, advanced fighter jets, Iskander short-range ballistic missiles and S-400 ground-to-air missile defense systems.

Over the last days, we have seen a significant movement of Russian military forces into Belarus. This is the biggest Russian deployment there since the Cold War, Stoltenberg told reporters.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu was in Minsk on Thursday, checking on preparations for major Russia-Belarus war games scheduled for Feb. 10 to Feb. 20. Shoigu met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Speaking about the drills, Lukashenko said the goal was to reinforce the border with Ukraine.

At the same time, Ukraines defense minister sought again to project calm, saying the probability of an invasion was low, and he welcomed a change by U.S. officials, who have stopped using the term imminent when describing the risk of a Russian attack.

Oleksii Reznikov said the threat exists, the risks exist, but they have existed since 2014, ever since Russia has become an aggressor. He said there are no grounds for panic, fear, flight or the packing of bags. The minister put the number of Russian troops near Ukraine at 115,000.

Still, Stoltenberg renewed his call for Russia to de-escalate, and repeated warnings from the West that any further Russian aggression would have severe consequences and carry a heavy price.

NATO has no intention of deploying troops to Ukraine should Russia invade, but it has begun to reinforce the defenses of nearby member countries  notably Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. The 30-nation military alliance also plans to beef up its defenses in the Black Sea region near Bulgaria and Romania.

In Helsinki, Finnish leaders held talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen about a letter that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov sent to several countries on the indivisibility of security in Europe.

Lavrov argues that the U.S. and NATO misunderstand the concept  which essentially means that the security of one European country is linked to the security of them all  and he has demanded replies from countries that signed a key security document encompassing it to clarify the issue.

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin said there was no big news in the letter but that it warranted a reply. Von der Leyen said the commission, the EUs executive branch, will coordinate a response, even though Lavrov insisted that only countries and not organizations should answer.

___

Fraser reported from Ankara and Madhani from Washington. Associated Press writers Dasha Litvinova and Vladimir Isachenkovin Moscow, Yuras Karmanau in Kyiv, Ukraine, Matthew Lee, Nomaan Merchant and Robert Burns in Washington, Jari Tanner in Helsinki and Barbara Surk in Nice, France, contributed to this report.
The Presidency says President Muhammadu Buhari will on Thursday embark on a four-day trip to the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.

He will be participating in the 35th Ordinary Session of Assembly of the African Union Heads of State and Government.

The presidents spokesperson, Femi Adesina, said this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mr Adesina said Mr Buhari would join other African leaders in finding solutions to political, economic and social challenges facing the continent.

He said the theme of the deliberation is: Building Resilience in Nutrition and Food Security on the African Continent: Strengthen Agriculture, Accelerate the Human Capital, Social and Economic Development.

He said Mr Buhari would on the sideline of the AU meetings hold bilateral meetings with some leaders, with shared interest in improving trade relations, partnering to tackle security challenges and maintaining relations with multilateral institutions for sustainable development.

Mr Adesina said the president would be accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, Minister of Agriculture, Mohammed Abubakar and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouk.

He said The National Security Adviser, retired Maj.-Gen. Babagana Monguno and Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai will also join the president at the AU meetings.

(NAN)
Sources said that some boys in the college had opposed Muslim girls wearing Hijab. (Photo: PTI/File)

Udupi: Even before the Hijab issue got a solution in the Womens Government College in Udupi, a similar issue has cropped up in another government college in Kundapur of Udupi district.

Students wearing Hijab were not allowed entry into the college on Thursday. The Principal asked them not to enter the college by wearing Hijab.

There are 28 students who attend classes wearing Hijab in the government PU College in Kundapur. They have been wearing it for many years. But today when 25 students came to the college (three were absent due to health issues) they were put out of the college gate, Campus Front of India leader Nawaz told Deccan Chronicle.

The students have been wearing Hijab for many years and the college authorities did not have any problem. But two days ago they suddenly asked the students not to wear. Yesterday a meeting was held where parents were invited. The parents made it clear that the students were wearing Hijab for many years, he said.

Today when the students came to the college, they were asked to get out of the gate. The 25 students were sitting outside the gate from 9 am to 3.30 pm hopeful that some officials will solve the problem. But nothing happened, he said.

Sources said that some boys in the college had opposed Muslim girls wearing Hijab. The boys had also come with a saffron shawl on Wednesday. However, after warning they came to college without the saffron shawl on Thursday.

College authorities said that the College Development Authority had decided not to allow any additional attire other than the specified uniform.
Hospitals in the Kansas City area have passed the peak of COVID-19 patients from the winter omicron surge, but doctors elsewhere in the state say their facilities are just now peaking.

The University of Kansas Health System hosted a Wednesday news conference with 13 chief medical officers and infectious disease specialists from across the state and Missouri side of the metro.

Steve Stites, the KU chief medical officer, said COVID-19 patient numbers appear to have stabilized over the past week and started to drop.

"It is no reason to let up on the gas as both cases and hospitalizations, though better, still remain higher than any other prior surge in the pandemic," Stites said. "We are not out of the woods yet."

Hospital leaders, especially in the metro area, reported that COVID-19 patient numbers have declined from their mid-January peaks. Emergency rooms continue to hold patients waiting for beds to open up, though the backlogs have eased.

Staffing challenges are less acute with fewer doctors and nurses out sick, and some hospitals have dropped their moratoriums on elective procedures.

"I think we're through the peak of COVID in our hospital census," said Lisa Hays, chief medical officer at Advent Health Shawnee Mission. "But I think we're still going to see the ramifications long term to our health care workers, people leaving the profession. We're going to continue to have difficulty hiring nurses, physicians, health care workers in general."

A Kansas Hospital Association report from Wednesday indicates that patient counts have improved statewide but remain higher than any prior surge in the pandemic.

Hospitals are starting to see some relief from patients needing transfers, said Richard Watson, a physician and co-founder of a company that helps transfer patients.

Watson credited the work of hospitals, an easing pressure from the coronavirus and the opening of Veterans Affairs hospital beds for limited public use. The Kansas City VA Hospital ICU currently has three non-veteran COVID patients via transfers from rural Kansas, said hospital chief of staff Ahmad Batrash.

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More: Kansas governor signs COVID hospital staffing emergency bill, deploys National Guard for testing, opens VA beds

"That really did make a difference to open up those beds to non-veterans," Stites said.

Despite the improving pandemic situation, the health care system is still stressed.

"I think everybody's kind of gotten numb to COVID news," Watson said. "Hospitals know this is their job, and day in and day out they've got to take care of very sick people, COVID or not COVID, and so we all get really used to making it work. But the public just needs to continue to realize that this is not gone, that we're still dealing with it, there's still congestion in the hospital, whether you have COVID or not."

January was an exceptionally deadly month.

"We had over 20% of our deaths throughout the pandemic in the past month," said Jennifer Schrimsher, an infectious diseases physician at LMH Health and deputy public health officer for Douglas County.

The KU hospital in Kansas City had 54 deaths from COVID-19 in January.

"It's been really bad as far as deaths go," said Dana Hawkinson, an infectious disease specialist at KU.

Elizabeth Long, chief medical officer at Olathe Health, said a patient attended a family gathering where everyone got infected. Three family members died.

"It's a gamble," Long said. "There's some serious consequences."

"Losing three family members from a family gathering, that's a moment you'll always remember," Stites said, urging people to get vaccinated, wear a mask and follow the rules of infection prevention and control.

Topeka hospitals are struggling

Staffing flexibilities allowed Stormont Vail Health to open about 30 additional beds on Monday, which "were instantly filled, largely with COVID transfers.

Topeka hospitals appear to be more stressed than those in the Kansas City metro.

"We are still either at our peak or hopefully at our plateau," said Kevin Dishman, chief medical officer of Stormont Vail Health. "One of the reasons for that is we are still seeing an abundant number of transfers from the rural areas."

Staffing flexibilities allowed the hospital to open about 30 additional beds on Monday, which "were instantly filled, largely with COVID transfers," he said.

Dishman said he believes rural areas are seeing their peaks now.

Despite a "plateauing" of patients at KU's St. Francis campus in Topeka, "we continue to be over capacity in our ICU and on our medical floors," said Jackie Hyland, the chief medical officer.

"Most of the time, you know, it probably is just a little cold," Hyland said. "But there is a significant amount of patients who enter the hospital who unfortunately may not be able to return to their family."

Getting vaccinated is the "one way to ensure you return home if you entered the hospital," she said.

The hospital is seeing an unusually high number of deaths.

"This is something that not only affects the family, and our hearts do go out to the family, this affects staff," Hyland said.

Will there be another wave?

Despite the emergence of an omicron subvariant, the doctors in Wednesday's news conference were hopeful the pandemic will improve over the next few months.

"The spring and summer should be much better for us," Hawkinson said.

The "stealth omicron" BA.2 subvariant is likely in Kansas already and is cause for concern, Watson said, "but at this point, it doesn't look like it's going to be a real player." Testing is also a concern amid reports that existing tests don't detect all cases.

Stites said there have likely been many more people infected with omicron than what official case counts show. That, combined with vaccination rates, could potentially mean "we're going to have a high rate of immunity, which is going to protect us from some further spread, and maybe even the next variant."

"That's my hope," Schrimsher said. "But it was also my hope after the delta surge, so I was planning to have a pretty chill winter, honestly. And I got burned on that crystal ball prediction."

"Theoretically, that could happen," said Sam Antonios, chief clinical officer at Ascension Via Christi Health in Wichita. "The reality is we don't know."

Omicron was able to evade immunity, so a future variant could too, he said. Immunity also wanes over time. That's why he is especially concerned about the low booster uptake in the U.S.

Data show that getting boosted is key, said Mark Steele, executive chief clinical officer at University Health-Truman in Kansas City, Mo.

"Compared to those who are fully vaccinated and boosted, the unvaccinated are 23 times more likely to end up in the hospital and also 68 times more likely to die," he said. "So those are really powerful statistics."

Lawrence and Douglas County continue to see a high number of active infections, Schrimsher said.

"I'm not quite done with this yet and looking to the next surge, but it is my hope that we have a period at least where we have a lower level of infections," she said. "And hopefully our staff and our community members can recover mentally and physically to prepare for what's next."

Public health officials have already indicated they expect the coronavirus will become endemic, largely due to widespread rejection of vaccines, the emergence of new variants and waning immunity.

"We've got to treat this eventually like a flu bug that has a seasonal aspect, that has a background immunity aspect, that has the need for continued boosters and vaccination," Watson said. "It's a virus and it's going to behave like a virus."

Ivermectin bill debate postponed

The Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee postponed this week's planned debate over a bill promoting ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine. Because of the snowstorm, action on Senate Bill 381 is now scheduled for Tuesday.

The bill, as written, allows physicians to prescribe off-label drugs to treat or prevent COVID-19 without any potential for civil liability or licensure consequences. Sen. Mark Steffen, R-Hutchinson, has promised the bill would be amended to remove the civil liability protections for prescribers.

More: Kansas bill would force pharmacists to fill ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine as off-label COVID treatment

Steffen is an anesthesiologist who has led the political movement to promote ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine. Doctors already can prescribe the off-label drugs, though health authorities say they have not proven to be effective against COVID-19.

The bill would also force pharmacists to fill the prescriptions, overriding existing laws that allow pharmacists to reject medications they believe would harm patients.

Further, the bill would ban the state health board from disciplining health care workers for any reason related to COVID-19. Steffen is under investigation and has accused the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts of having political motivations.

More: Senator under health board investigation calls KU doctor 'Kansas Dr. Fauci' as COVID rates worsen

Hawkinson said five drugs are available under the National Institutes of Health treatment guidelines for COVID-19 to treat non-hospitalized adults with COVID-19 who are at high risk for worsening disease. Those are Paxlovid, Sotrovimab, Remdesivir, Molnupiravir and, in special circumstances, the corticosteroid dexamethasone.

Stites and Antonios have testified against the bill.

"If you single out two drugs, really ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine, for special protection in the pandemic, it's just hard to justify that in my mind when you already can go off label," Stites said.

"Our pharmacy and therapeutics committee has taking a hard look at that and said, you know, the evidence just really isn't there. So many of the studies that initially said they were positive had to be retracted. And that's like the ultimate slap is when your studies have to be retracted in science. That means you did something wrong with your data."

Antonios suggested that health care professionals would be better off if lawmakers spent their time addressing staffing challenges.

"Whatever can be done to support the workforce will help us become more resilient to tackle the next wave and the next variant, and it is of critical importance," he said.

Jason Tidd is a statehouse reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. He can be reached by email at jtidd@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jason_Tidd.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: COVID patients fill Kansas hospitals as doctors fear future variants
(Corrects 13th paragraph of Feb 3 article to say Elie Girard departed, not that he was ousted)

By Mathieu Rosemain and Julien Ponthus

PARIS (Reuters) - The French government holds the final keys to any move to buy the BDS cybersecurity division of France's Atos, industry sources and analysts said, after French defence company Thales was reported to be devising a break-up plan.

Atos said on Thursday that its cybersecurity arm, BDS, was not for sale after sources told Reuters that Thales was working on a plan to buy the business, having approached private equity firms about exploring a joint offer and break-up.

Atos, formed partly by a string of acquisitions made under former CEO Thierry Breton, now EU industry chief and a former French finance minister, has deep links to France's security world in which the state has the ultimate say over tie-ups.

Atos secures communications for the French military and secret services and manufactures servers to make supercomputers able to process troves of data for research or to develop the nascent artificial intelligence industry.

"The real question is about Atos future and that's really a political one," said Mikael Jacoby, who heads continental European sales trading at Oddo Securities.

"I think that issue will stay on investors' mind even if in the short term there's nothing to expect," he added, saying that interest from clients had gone down after Thales denied considering a bid for the entire Atos group.

Atos shares fell around 7% on Thursday after rising 10% on Wednesday.

One of Atos' oldest clients is France's CEA, the country's atomic energy commission, which it helped simulate nuclear missile tests. It also inherited confidential technology through the 2014 purchase of Groupe Bull, industry sources say.

It won a contract to help build a supercomputer in India, a country with which France has strengthened its partnership on defence and security.

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"This is highly strategic and a matter of sovereignty," said a source close to Atos, with the regards to the Indian contract. "Just like nuclear submarines."

DIGITAL SOVEREIGNTY

The biggest manufacturers of supercomputers servers are IBM and Hewlett Packard, both U.S.-based companies.

French President Emmanuel Macron has made the matter of 'digital sovereignty' a top priority as France presides the European Union until June. A ministerial conference on "building digital sovereignty in Europe" is scheduled early next week.

"We follow all French companies closely," a spokesperson for the Finance Ministry said when asked about the situation at Atos, whose shares have lost half of their price over the last year following a string of setbacks that led to the departure of Breton's successor, Elie Girard.

Thales has long coveted the cybersecurity assets of Atos, which it beat to the purchase of Gemalto in 2019, but whether it can find an agreed solution remains a puzzle, analysts said.

It said on Wednesday it would potentially be interested in any cybersecurity activities that were on sales, adding that no discussions were under way with Atos.

Cybersecurity is part of a cluster of sectors subject to extra government approval where foreign bidders are involved.

"If Thales wanted to bid for the whole of Atos as a French company and dispose of assets it did not want such as IT services, that would not pose a serious problem," a senior French industry source said.

"Putting across an offer together with foreign funds and then breaking it up is a different discussion," he added.

Thales ruled out any interest in the whole of Atos on Wednesday.

One of Thales' two top investors is the French state, which is also its biggest customer. This situation makes the alternative of a hostile bid difficult to contemplate.

"Thales is the state and it is also Dassault, which would not go against the state," the senior industry source said.

(Corrects 13th paragraph of Feb 3 article to say Elie Girard departed, not that he was ousted)

(Reporting by Mathieu Rosemain in Paris and Julien Ponthus in London; Additional reporting by Tim Hepher; editing by David Evans)
The Bucharest City Hall is open to collaboration with French companies, said, on Thursday, General Mayor Nicusor Dan, after the meeting had with a delegation of MEDEF (Mouvement des Enteprises de France), the largest French private business organization at the international level.

"Our guests from France have presented the experience of companies they represent, as well as the possibilities of collaboration they've identified, especially regarding the improvement of transport infrastructure, the energy sector and digitization, as well as in relation to modernizing healthcare infrastructure and seismic risk management. The Bucharest City Hall is open to collaboration with French companies as part of the public investments that we will make, but also to attract French private investments, which would create new jobs and develop the industries and services of Bucharest," said the General Mayor, on Facebook, Agerpres.ro informs.

He mentioned that he presented, in his turn, the priorities of the municipality regarding the modernization of the heating system, including the European funds project worth 281 million euro which was recently launched; public transport and transport infrastructure - the acquisition of electric buses, trams and trolleybuses, but also the building of the metropolitan train or the radial roads that Bucharest will use to link to the future ring road; consolidation of buildings with seismic risk; digitization of public services and the institutions of the local administration.
Bharatiya Janata Party Telangana unit staged a protest on Thursday against Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao's alleged "incriminating" remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Constitution of India. Earlier on Tuesday, KCR had expressed disappointment over the Union Budget 2022 and said that the BJP-led Centre needs to be "removed and thrown in the Bay of Bengal". Addressing the event, G Vivek, BJP, National executive council member, said that the Union Budget was presented as per the norms and Telangana has got allocation as per the rights of the state. "The budget is presented as per the norms. The budget-making process has now become a formality of allocating resources in states and accordingly Telangana state has also got allocation as per the rights of the state. Since the BJP's popularity is growing in Telangana, almost every survey shows a decline or the end of KCR's regime. Taking advantage of the press conference, he started publicly demeaning PM," he said. The BJP leader further accused the Chief Minister of creating a divide on the basis of states arousing the sentiments of the people. "KCR is trying to bring in the old Telangana sentiment by manipulating people and telling them that we have a prime minister representing Gujarat. The budget doesn't show any partiality towards any state," he said. Vivek said that the Chief Minister has not given jobs to the youth despite 2 lakh job vacancies in the state and the people of Telangana are looking for an alternative in the form of BJP. "The state government is selling lands at a discounted price. Even after promising about reviving the nizam sugar factory in 100 days 7 years ago, he hasn't fulfilled it. In spite of having 2 lakh job vacancies, he hasn't filled them. People are vexed by TRS and are looking for an alternative. The constitution is the reason he has come to power, we know how he messed up the Rameshwaram project. The budget aims at improving people's lives in a significant way," he said.
An oil production and storage ship exploded in southern Delta state and 10 crewmembers are feared dead, Nigerian authorities said.

An official of the Sheba Oil Exploration and Production Company confirmed the incident in a statement Thursday.

Ikemefuna Okafor said the offshore production facility known as Trinity Spirit erupted in flames in Ukpokiti, on the coast of Nigeria's southern Delta state.

He said the fire was believed to be caused by an explosion and that the incident was being investigated.

Ikemefuna said the initial responders to the incident included local fishermen and Clean Nigeria Associates, a team operating at a nearby facility.

The extent of damage is unknown. The ship is able to store up to two million barrels of oil and the explosion raises serious environmental concerns.

Three months ago an oil spill in nearby Bayelsa state spewed for one month, causing severe damage to land and water bodies before it was contained.

Ibiosiya Sukubo is a leader of one of the communities in the Niger Delta that was recently affected.

"The ecological and aquatic devastation caused by oil and gas exploitation and exploration has been quite colossal and astronomical," Sukubo said. "The movement of heavy marine vessels creating a host of turbidity without proper compensation, alleviation, remediation, is an appalling circumstance we find ourselves in Niger Delta."

Nigeria is trying to maximize its petroleum output, and authorities have intensified a crackdown on illegal tapping of pipelines.

Petroleum officials say the country loses some 150,000 barrels of oil a day to such theft.
The U.S. Capital is seen as National Guard and U.S. Capitol Police stand guard on Feb. 8, 2021. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)

Left, Right See Civil Liberties Disaster-in-the-Making in Capitol Hill Security Proposals

A new internal security program will have an absolutely chilling effect on the ability of constituents to petition their representatives, and whistleblowers with vital information to share with Congress, according to Rep. Kelly Armstrong.

It turns out that knowing who everyone is, and where they are at, has a security benefit. But, my question is, at what costs, the North Dakota Republican told The Epoch Times in an interview on Feb. 2.

That has been one of my biggest concerns over the last year, and some time. How we do this stuff in a way that allows people their right to petition their members of Congress. This is not Article II security, it is Article I security, and it has an absolutely chilling effect on people, Armstrong said.

Article II of the U.S. Constitution established the executive branch of the federal government, which administers laws, as directed by the legislative branch created by Article I.

The First Amendments guarantee of the right of every American to petition the government for a redress of grievances refers primarily to Congress and its representative functions.

The proposal prompting Armstrongs comments was put forth January 11 by House Sergeant-at-Arms (SAA) William Walker, who told a House Appropriations Committee subcommittee that he seeks a Capitol Access Verification Entry System (CAVES) program to ensure Members of Congress and the USCP [United States Capitol Police] know exactly who is entering the Capitol Complex, and for how long.

CAVES would be a security model based on a strict identity verification process. Having a secure ID with the proper electronic devices and software to validate highly secure government identification is an essential starting point for the CAVES system, Walker said.

Walker also told the subcommittee that he wants an insider threat awareness program to train at least one individual on every congressional staff to look for and identify signs among colleagues of employees who lose their compass and whose allegiance has changed.

Walkers proposal is part of the response of Congress to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol by angry supporters of former President Donald Trump. The proposal comes amid growing concerns about reports that Capitol Police and other government agencies in both the legislative and executive branches are mounting an intensive intelligence-monitoring effort aimed at accumulating massive amounts of information on every individual entering the Capitol Complex, regardless of their purpose for being there.

Walker was traveling to the West Coast on Feb. 2 and could not be reached for comment. The retired two-star Army General, was appointed as SAA by Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).

Fundamentally, it comes down to two things, Armstrong said. If it was righteous, why are they doing this in secret? And, if it was about security, how come they arent coordinating with members offices?

Armstrongs worries about the Walker proposal are shared by Daniel Schuman, Policy Director for the Demand Progress Education Fund, a progressive advocacy group that focuses on transparency issues in government.

Schuman told The Epoch Times in a Feb. 2 interview that the civil liberties concerns sparked by Walkers proposal center on what kind of information would be collected, and who would have access to it.

People need to be able to visit their members of Congress without fear of being surveilled, Schuman said. When you start to break apart what the proposal means, what it does is fundamentally impair the operation of the legislative branch.

It will no longer be possible to have confidential conversations with members of Congress; whistleblowers cant go to congressional offices without being discovered. Depending on the details, and what the Sergeant-at-Arms proposed is vague, but are we tracking who is meeting with whom? Do I have to say who I am meeting with, do we track which journalists are meeting with which members of Congress, or which lobbyists are meeting with which members.

Schuman said the proposed solution to preventing another Jan. 6 attack does not address the basic problem.

The fundamental problem is how do you keep the Capitol Complex secure and open. The problem wasnt in showing your ID on Jan. 6, the problem was the Capitol Hill Police leadership, and those who supervised them were incompetent, that the leadership structure is designed in such a manner as to create the appearance of security without the reality of it, Schuman said.

He was referring to a congressional review that concluded the USCP lacked basic protective equipment for officers dealing with mobs, had no department-wide operational plan for such a situation, lacked training in dealing with civil disturbances, and was not properly staffed for the day.

A USCP spokesman did not respond to The Epoch Times request for comment by press time.

Tracking who is in the Capitol Complex isnt what makes it secure or insecure; it neither solves the problem, nor addresses the problem, Schuman added. The challenge is in balancing the need for safety with the constitutional right to petition the government, he said.

If safety is the only value, then you go and put them in a bunker, with each individual in a room, and you put 100 feet of concrete around them, and you put the Marines on top of them, he said.

The other main value is that Congress be open. Its a deliberative body to bring together the views of the 300 million-plus Americans and to work out in a non-violent way of making decisions about what our country is going to do. And that requires everyone to have access, and to have a voice, Schuman said.
Mike Pence (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Former Vice President Mike Pence will deliver an address about constitutional authority and the rule of law in America as he faces a withering barrage of criticism from his former boss for not interfering in the peaceful transfer of power from the Trump administration to Joe Bidens presidency.

Mr Pence will speak on Friday in Florida, The Washington Post first reported, about what a spokesperson told the Post was to be an address on constitutional principles and the rule of law. Though the statement did not mention it, Mr Pences event comes just days after a Mr Trump launched a new barrage of attacks against Mr Pence, wrongly asserting that he had the power to overturn the 2020 election, and openly insisting that the vice president should have done so despite every court challenge of Mr Trumps 2020 defeat coming up short.

The former vice president has remained active on the political state since his public break with Mr Trump over the campaign to overturn the 2020 election last year; Mr Trump has publicly and privately excoriated his former running mate while at the same time engaging in efforts to purge the GOP of any who did not go along with his false claims about voter fraud causing his defeat to Joe Biden.

More follows...
Blumenthal, Graham Reintroduce Bill to Strip Legal Protections From Tech Firms for Child Abuse Content

Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) on Tuesday reintroduced a bill that would strip online platforms of their legal protections under federal law if they host child sexual abuse content.

The bill, called the Eliminating Abusive and Rampant Neglect of Interactive Technologies, or EARN IT Act, would overhaul the 1996 Communications Decency Act, which granted online platforms protection from liability for user-created content on their websites.

The 1996 bill was one of the first laws passed in the United States to address how the federal government would address the burgeoning Internet and its platforms.

In section 230, the bill laid out broad protections for online platforms, declaring that, No provider or user of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information provided by another information content provider. The following provision, known as the Good Samaritan clause, protects platforms from any tort liability if they do not act as content creators on the service.

Section 230 protections have become controversial in recent years, particularly among conservatives who have disproportionately been banned, shadow banned, and otherwise stifled on major social media platforms in contrast to liberals on the same platforms.

The EARN IT Act would limit the liability protections for online platforms in cases alleging violations of child sexual exploitation laws.

To fight such sexual abuse content, the legislation would establish a new National Commission on Online Child Sexual Exploitation Prevention, which would be directed to develop best practices for interactive online services providers (e.g., Facebook and Twitter) to prevent the online sexual exploitation of children.

A teenage girl , who claims to be a victim of sexual abuse and alleged grooming, poses in Rotherham, England, on Sept. 3, 2014. (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

The legislation has already garnered significant bipartisan support in the oft-divided upper chamber. Prominent Democrats like Sens. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) have signed onto the bill, joined by GOP Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.).

It also has substantial support among moderates, including Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Susan Collins (R-Maine).

The same bill was also introduced by Graham with Blumenthals support during the 116th Congress.

We have been planning for a long time [to reintroduce it], Blumenthal said in a statement to The Hill. We now have an overwhelming number of co-sponsors.

Blumenthal speculated that the EARN IT Act could head to the Senate Judiciary Committee for markup as early as Thursday.

The legislation has faced backlash from Net Choice, a group whose stated goal is to [make] the Internet safe for free enterprise and free expression. Net Choice advocates for laissez-faire principles toward the Internet, which it says has flourished under a light-touch regulation.

Were seeing a renewed effort to push the EARN IT Act without addressing the bills central problems. The EARN IT Act continues to threaten encryption and privacy features and would make the internet less safe for us all, including our kids, said Carl Szabo, vice president and general counsel at NetChoice.

The bill risks digital privacy for Americans and their kids.

Net Choice has argued that the bill would actually make it easier for those posting child pornographic material to get out of convictions in court.

According to the group, the bills requirement that online platforms turn over relevant materials, rather than allowing the platforms to do so voluntarily, could create concerns under the Fourth Amendment that could cause evidence or even a conviction to be thrown out.

In a statement to the Epoch Times, Grahams office refuted the claim.

The Fourth Amendment argument against EARN IT is old and has been completely debunked. It was one of the main, inaccurate arguments opponent groups made about the original version of the bill, said Kevin Bishop, a spokesman for Sen. Graham.

Proponents of the bill have pointed to previous litigation on related issues.

The Supreme Court has often held that users posting content to online platforms have no reasonable expectation of privacy, in contrast to ones home, office, or vehicle. Because there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in public forums online, proponents of the section 230 reform say that Fourth Amendment concerns are a non-issue.

Sen. Grahams office also said that while the bill is an important first step to reforming section 230, more work needs to be done to address concerns of unfair censorship.

Certainly, many big tech companies are abusing the section 230 liability protections, Grahams spokesman said. More will likely be done to curtail the censorship and content moderation problems more broadly.

EARN IT is a step in the right direction. Given that Senator Graham also has a bill that sunsets section 230 liability protections, he does not think EARN IT is an end point.
Pakistan's problem of religious extremism is likely to worsen in the near future unless the state adopts a gradual policy shift toward the separation of religion and politics, said an Islamabad-based think tank. This argument was made in a report published by the security think tank Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS). In a report titled "How Youth in Sindh View State, Society, Religion, and Politics", the think tank said Sindh has been seeing an upsurge in incidents of violence against religious, sectarian and ethnic minorities since the beginning of the 21st century. The second-largest province of Pakistan is also grappling with issues like forced conversions of Hindu girls and vandalisation of Hindu temples, The News International reported citing the study report. This is based on two-day workshops in three cities of the province--one each in Karachi, Sukkur and Hyderabad. The report also emphasises a massive need to upgrade the education system and suggests that the curricula must be sensitive about the portrayal of minorities and the assessment should not be based on rote-learning but should encourage critical and rational thinking. Slamming the poor handling of interfaith issues in the education system of Pakistan, the report recommended civil rights organisations must take action to fill the gap, organising workshops and training at campuses on the subject across the country. (ANI)
(Adds U.S. troops head to Poland, Germany)

* U.S. says plan could include actors playing mourners

* Moscow accuses Washington of heightening tensions with troops

* NATO says Russia expected to have 30,000 troops in Belarus

By Steve Holland, Dmitry Antonov and Pavel Polityuk

WASHINGTON/MOSCOW/KYIV, Feb 4 (Reuters) - Russia has formulated several options as an excuse to invade Ukraine, including the potential use of a propaganda video showing a staged attack, the United States said on Thursday, as the Kremlin condemned American troop deployments in the region.

Russia, which seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and backs separatists in the east of the country, is demanding security guarantees including a promise NATO will never admit Kyiv as it has amassed https://graphics.reuters.com/RUSSIA-UKRAINE/dwpkrkwkgvm some 100,000 troops near the Ukrainian border.

The United States has said there is little chance of Ukraine joining NATO soon but that the country should decide its own future as the powers clash over their spheres of influence in post-Cold War Europe.

U.S. intelligence believes Russia could use a fabricated video showing the graphic aftermath of an explosion, including equipment appearing to belong to Ukraine or allied nations, to justify an incursion.

It "would involve actors playing mourners for people who are killed in an event that they (Russia) would have created themselves... (and) deployment of corpses to represent bodies purportedly killed," U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Jonathan Finer told MSNBC.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the reports, according to the TASS news agency, saying similar things had been said previously but amounted to nothing.

Moscow has denied accusations in the past that it is trying to manufacture a conflict and says it is not planning an invasion but that it could take unspecified military action if its security demands are not met.

The Kremlin accused Washington on Thursday of ignoring its calls to ease the standoff, a day after the United States announced https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/kremlin-mocks-britains-utterly-confused-johnson-before-putin-talks-2022-02-02 it would send nearly 3,000 extra troops to Poland and Romania.

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"It's obvious that these are not steps aimed at de-escalating tensions, but on the contrary they are actions that lead to increasing tension," Peskov said on a conference call on Thursday.

"We constantly call on our American counterparts to stop aggravating tensions on the European continent. Unfortunately, the Americans continue to do so," he said.

Paratroopers with the U.S. Army boarded aircraft on Thursday to leave for Eastern Europe "in support of assuring our NATO allies and our partners in deterring Russia," U.S. Army spokesman Matthew Visser said.

The soldiers were departing from Fort Bragg in North Carolina. Around 1,700 service members, mainly from the 82nd Airborne Division, were being deployed to Poland, while 300 others will move to Germany, he said.

Washington and NATO have expresses a readiness to discuss arms control and confidence-building measures. Russian President Vladimir Putin said earlier in the week that Moscow was still interested in dialogue.

RUSSIAN TROOP MOVEMENTS INTO BELARUS

In Brussels, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said there had been a significant movement of Russian military forces into Ukraine's northern neighbor Belarus in recent days.

The Russia-Belarus joint military drills, running until Feb. 20, have provided Moscow with cover to further increase forces near Ukraine.

"This is the biggest Russian deployment there since the Cold War," said Stoltenberg, adding the expected deployment includes 30,000 combat troops, Spetsnaz special operations forces, SU-35 fighter jets, S-400 air defence systems and nuclear-capable Iskander missiles.

The Kremlin has described the Allied Resolve exercises as a rehearsal for repelling external aggression https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/belarus-says-joint-drills-with-russia-run-feb-10-20-2022-01-18 and says its forces will withdraw after the drills.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu arrived in Belarus on Thursday to inspect the troops.

The Belarusian defence minister released images from the exercises showing troops parachuting to the ground, fighter jets in the sky, soldiers dismounting from a helicopter holding weapons, and tanks firing and manoeuvring.

Belarus shares its western border with NATO members Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, while Ukraine lies to its south.

WORLD LEADERS KEEP TALKING

Support for Russia came from China.

Their two foreign ministers "coordinated their positions" during a meeting in Beijing on Thursday, the Chinese foreign ministry said.

China expressed understanding and support for Russia's position on security regarding Russia's relationship with the United States and NATO, it said.

Putin was set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday before attending the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics.

The U.S. State Department warned Russia that a closer relationship between Moscow and Beijing would not make up for the consequences of an invasion and only make the Russian economy "more brittle."

Elsewhere, world leaders continued their efforts to resolve the crisis.

In Kyiv, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan held talks with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy and offered to host a meeting between Putin and Zelenskiy.

In a move likely to grate with Moscow, Zelenskiy used the meeting to trumpet a deal enabling Ukrainian factories to produce Turkish drones that have already been deployed in Ukraine's war against Russia-backed rebels in its eastern Donbass region.

In Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron said he and Polish President Andrzej Duda had discussed the possibility of a three-way meeting along with Germany's Olaf Scholz in coming days on the situation in Ukraine.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for Russia to return to a path of "peace and dialogue" or face sanctions as the EU worked on a joint response to a letter many of its members received from Russia seeking security guarantees.

(Reporting by Steve Holland in Washington, Dmitry Antonov in Moscow and Pavel Polityuk in Kyiv; Additional reporting by Natalia Zinets, Gabriela Baczynska and Matthias Williams in Kyiv, Rami Ayyub and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington, Tom Balmforth in Moscow, Kanishka Singh in Bengaluru, Orhan Coskun, Tuvan Gumrukcu, and Ece Toksabay in Ankara, Michel Rose in Paris and Yew Lun Tian in Beijing; Writing by Angus MacSwan, Andrew Heavens, Costas Pitas and Michael Perry; Editing by Gareth Jones, Rosalba O'Brien and Lincoln Feast.)
The Gujarat government on Thursday decided to extend the night curfew in the state till February 11 from 10 pm to 6 am in view of the ongoing third wave of COVID-19 in the country, said the Chief Minister's Office. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel chaired the meeting of the core committee today to review the COVID-19 situation today. The CMO informed that the committee has decided that the wedding ceremonies held in closed venues in the state can be held with a limit of 150 persons and wedding ceremonies in open spaces can be held with a maximum of 300 people. Earlier on January 7, the government announced a night curfew between 10 pm and 6 am in Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, Gandhinagar, Junagadh, Jamnagar, Bhavnagar, Anand, and Nadiad. Gujarat reported 7,606 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday along with 13,195 recoveries and 34 deaths in the last 24 hours. The active cases in the state stand at 63,564. (ANI)
President Biden has for years promised to restore the Iran Nuclear Deal, but now his administration expects that a renewed deal would leave the Middle Eastern foe capable of gathering enough nuclear fuel to produce a bomb in far less than a year.

Despite the new assessment, the U.S. is forging ahead with a deal.

A powerful Senate Democrat questioned Tuesday why the Biden administration would even bother trying to return to the deal. 'At this point, we seriously have to ask what exactly are we trying to salvage?' said Robert Menendez, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Menendez's committee will have considerable oversight over re-entry to the deal.

Menendez said he at first was optimistic about Biden's plan, so long as Iran agreed to extend its nuclear enrichment rollback provisions and the deal was expanded to cover missile delivery systems. But under the last year of the hard-line government of President Ebrahim Raisi, Iran had proven it was not willing to concede.

'At this point, we seriously have to ask what exactly are we trying to salvage?' said Robert Menendez, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee

'I have yet to hear any parameters of 'longer' or 'stronger' terms or whether that is even a feasible prospect,' he said in an hour-long speech on the Senate floor Tuesday evening. 'And even when it seemed a constructive agreement might be possible last summer, upon taking office, the Raisi government abandoned all previous understandings and, as I mentioned, made absolutely clear that Iran's ballistic missiles and regional proxy networks are 'not negotiable.'

The New Jersey Democrat instead said that Biden should ramp up pressure on Iran, something his administration has been reluctant to do for fear of Tehran walking away from the table.

'These new efforts should include creative diplomatic initiatives, stricter sanctions enforcement, and a steely determination from Congress to back up President Biden's declaration that Iran will 'never get a nuclear weapon on my watch',' he said.

Menendez said he at first was optimistic about Biden's plan, so long as Iran agreed to extend its nuclear enrichment rollback provisions and the deal was expanded to cover missile delivery systems. But under the last year of the hard-line government of President Ebrahim Raisi, above, Iran had proven it was not willing to concede

Before the U.S. withdrew from the year, Iran had a 'breakout time' of one year, meaning the nation it could take the nation a year to produce a bomb. Now with its advanced technologies, security officials believe Iran could produce a weapon in a matter of months

President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the JCPOA in 2018, insisting the deal wasn't strict enough on Iran. He re-instituted harsh sanctions. While Biden has insisted he'll restore the deal, both Washington and Tehran have each been waiting for the other to make the first move. Iran says it will not return to compliance until the U.S. lifts the sanctions, the U.S. says it will not lift the sanctions until Iran returns to compliance.

Menendez was one of a handful of Democrats who opposed the 2015 deal, but he also opposed Trump's withdrawal from the deal, saying it would make matters worse.

Before the U.S. withdrew from the year, Iran had a 'breakout time' of one year, meaning the nation it could take the nation a year to produce a bomb. Now with its advanced technologies, security officials believe Iran could produce a weapon in a matter of months.

Iranian and American officials began discussing a deal in April through indirect talks in Vienna.

And ten months into negotiations, U.S. officials are relaying a sense of urgency to restore the deal, arguing that if the U.S. waits too long Iran will have advanced too far to be able to come into compliance.

'We are in the final stretch because as we've said now for some time this can't go on forever because of Iran's nuclear advancement,' a State Department official said Monday.

'The Iranians have been aware of for some time that we are reaching the final moment, after which we will no longer be in a position to come back to the JCPOA because it will no longer hold the value that we negotiated,' the official added, according to CNBC.

The JCPOA, brokered during the Obama administration, lifted sanctions on Iran that crippled its economy and cut its oil exports nearly in half.

Assessments showed that under the JCPOA in 2015, Iran had a 12-month breakout time, meaning if Iran broke the bounds of the deal, it would still need one year to produce enough fuel for one bomb.

Now, as the U.S. looks to return to the deal, officials warn Iran could develop a bomb far more quickly if it were to renege on the deal. It could still take longer for Iran to develop a nuclear weapon because Tehran is believed not yet to have mastered the skills to build the core of the bomb and attach a warhead to a missile.

Some former U.S. officials warn that a breakout period of six months or less would seriously weaken Washington's ability to respond to a sudden ramp-up, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Iran has gradually expanded its nuclear program since mid-2019, and has begun to produce 60% enriched Uranium, near weapons grade. It has also developed advanced centrifuges and installed hundreds of them at its nuclear facilities.

Iran claims its nuclear development is purely for peaceful purposes. Under a restored deal, it would have to agree to ship abroad or scrap the vast bulk of its 2 metric tons of enriched uranium, uninstall the advanced centrifuges, and limit its stockpile of enriched uranium and the purity of its enrichment to 3.67% until 2031.

Iran would also have to allow international inspection, which would give the U.S. warning if Tehran were

However, the constraints on Iran's nuclear research would fall gradually after 2024. And in 2026 the deal would allow Iran to deploy some of its advanced centrifuges, which would drastically reduce its breakout time.
Mexican scientists announced the launch of the first mission of autonomous mini-robots to the moon in June 2022 as part of the Colmena project aimed at exploring minerals in space

MEXICO CITY (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 02nd February, 2022) Mexican scientists announced the launch of the first mission of autonomous mini-robots to the moon in June 2022 as part of the Colmena project aimed at exploring minerals in space.

"Taking nature as an example, Colmena will show that very small robots can operate both as researchers and miners when coordinated," Gustavo Medina Tanco, head of the laboratory of space instrumentation at the Institute for Nuclear Sciences of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), said presenting the project.

The first mission of the Colmena project involves five robots weighing less than 0.1 Pounds each, with a diameter of 4.7 inches. A distinctive feature of these mini-robots is the positioning of all electronic devices in 0.

8 inches directly above the soil. They are expected to independently perform coordinated functions and work on the surfaces of non-atmospheric space bodies, with the mission lasting about 13 terrestrial days or one lunar day.

The robots have already been delivered to the United States and installed on Astrobotic's Peregrine lunar lander spacecraft. The launch of the spaceship is scheduled for June.

UNAM's Colmena project started its operation in 2016 aiming to study the potential of mini-robots working in space and the possibilities of their self-organization, as well as the potential of mining rare earth metals on asteroids.
Christopher Worrell of East Naples at the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, a photo included in an FBI statement of facts a federal magistrate signed March 10, 2021.

A U.S. District Court judge cleared an East Naples man of violating his release terms while he awaits trial, accused of participating in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.

Christopher John Worrell, 50, was taken into federal custody after FBI agents executed a search and arrest warrant at his Collier County home on March 12. Worrell, a member of the Proud Boys, is accused of attacking police officers with pepper spray gel.

He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Authorities released him from jail in November, citing medical conditions and the need for specialized treatment.

Release violations? Feds: East Naples man charged in Jan. 6 insurrection violated terms of his release

Civil rights denial: Modified release for Naples man charged in Jan. 6 insurrection called 'denial' of civil rights

Released from custody: East Naples man involved in Jan. 6 insurrection freed, living with GPS monitoring in SWFL

His release came with conditions such as home detention, approval in advance for doctor appointments and no access to the internet, social media or email unless it is with his legal defense team or approved by the court.

On Jan. 5, a violation report from Pre-trial Services filed with the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. alleges the "defendant and his custodian violated the condition of defendant's release that he not access a personal computer or the internet."

The violation order does not explain where, when and how the allegation occurred.

The U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services System carries out probation and pretrial services functions in the federal courts.

In a response to the violation, Worrell filed an explanation on the scope of changes his third-party custodian was making, how he complied with his court-order prohibition to access computers via passwords and fingerprint only access.

As part of his explanation, Worrell said: "Respectfully, this Court has imposed conditions, Worrell understands those conditions, and there are no other conditions which could be imposed which would minimize or avoid the perceived risk of violation."

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On Tuesday, Judge Royce Lambeth for U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia accepted Worrell's explanation and said the court would take no further action on the violation.

Connect with breaking news reporter Michael Braun: MichaelBraunNP (Facebook), @MichaelBraunNP (Twitter) or mbraun@news-press.com.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Capitol riot: Judge accepts Christopher Worrell's violation explanation
Myanmar's then-leader Aung San Suu Kyi sits in the court room of the International Court of Justice for the first day of three days of hearings in The Hague, Netherlands, Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2019.

Former Myanmar lawmakers who operate as a shadow government since a military coup a year ago said they now accept the authority of the top international court to decide if a 2016-17 campaign against Rohingya Muslims in the country constituted a genocide.

The National Unity Government (NUG) said in a statement Tuesday that that it would withdraw all preliminary objections in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) case over Myanmars military operations against the Rohingya in 2016 and 2017, a scorched-earth campaign that forced 730,000 Rohingya to flee Rakhine state, mostly to neighboring Bangladesh.

The parallel government asked that it and not the ruling military junta that took over Myanmar in the Feb. 1, 2021, coup represent the country before the court.

In 2019, then-leader Aung San Suu Kyi staunchly defended the Myanmar military against genocide and crimes against humanity charges in 2019 at the International Court of Justice in The Hague in the case brought forth by Gambia.

Aung San Suu Kyi and her spokesman insisted at the time that no genocide had occurred in Rakhine state, and said that a Myanmar government investigation found war crimes and serious human rights violations had occurred during counter-terrorism operations in the area, but there was no genocidal intent.

The Gambia case charges that Myanmar violated the 1948 Genocide Convention during the alleged expulsion of Rohingya to Bangladesh. The hearing on the objections was scheduled to begin Feb. 21.

In Tuesdays statement, the NUGs acting President Duwa Lashi La said the group was the proper representative of Myanmar in the case, urging the court not to recognize the junta that deposed the government.

It would set a dangerous precedent and be inconsistent with the position of the U.N. General Assembly for the ICJ to accept the military junta as the representative of Myanmar. The NUG strongly believes that it would also be detrimental to the interests of Myanmar and the people of Myanmar and to the cause of justice for the Rohingya people, the statement said.

Should the ICJ recognize the military, it would embolden the junta to continue and escalate its daily atrocity crimes, it said.

The statement is a good sign, Tun Khin, a Rohingya activist from the London-based Burmese Rohingya Organization UK, told Radio Free Asia (RFA).

The military council has been committing killings and atrocities in other ethnic states including Chin, Kachin or Kayin states. I think conditions are heading toward committing genocide against these ethnic groups. So, I think NUGs reversal on the objection of genocidal charges earlier is good for the future, Tun Khin said.

I think NUGs decision to cooperate with international legal body is a sign of optimism.

But the NUG lacks the power to withdraw the objections, Nandaw Thar Ba, a Buddhist monk from Sittwe, Rakhine state, and chairman of the nationalist group Ma Ba Tha, told RFA.

The NUG cannot recant its earlier position because NUG is not a legitimate government, he said. The military is now ruling party of the country. The military council has more authority on this issue. No country has formally recognized NUG so far.

Nandaw Thar Ba noted that Aung San Suu Kyi has never formally relinquished her rights as Myanmars legal representative in the case and might not even be aware the NUG is recanting her arguments.

Recanting of arguments at the ICJ breaks new ground, Min Lwin Oo, a human rights attorney, told RFA.

The NUG has abandoned the option for the defense entirely and wants to restart the entire trial from the beginning. It is up to ICJ on whether they will allow it or not, he said.

RFA contacted the juntas spokesman, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, the NUGs human rights minister, Aung Myo Min, and the NUG-endorsed ambassador to the U.N., Kyaw Moe Htun, but none were available for comment as of Wednesday evening.

Rohingya refugees line up for aid at Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, Sept. 26, 2017. [Reuters]

Rohingya activist groups in Bangladesh also welcomed the NUG statement.

Aung San Suu Kyis National Unity Governments withdrawal of its previous objection to the International Court of Justice is an encouraging development for us, Md Jubair, secretary of the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights, told BenarNews on Wednesday.

This withdrawal, I think, would bring the verdict in favor of the Rohingya.  It would formally establish the fact at the international level that the Myanmar military has been carrying out systematic torture, persecution and genocide against the Rohingya, said Jubair, adding that the decades-old persecution of the Rohingya could finally cease if the case goes their way.

Dil Mohammad, a Rohingya leader living in the frontier land along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, told BenarNews that the withdrawal of the objections could expediate a trial.

If everything goes in the right direction, the Rohingya will get justice through the ICJ, Dil Mohammad said.

But he said support from the international community was more important.

Unless there is international pressure on the Myanmar government, the Rohingya will never be able to return to our homeland, even if the judgement from the ICJ goes in our favor, Dil Mohammad said.

The military junta has been trying to get recognition from the international community. It has been engaging with the ICJ by every six months, submitting reports on the Rohingya situation, Reuters reported.

If it regains power from the military, the NUG in June 2021 pledged to grant citizenship to the Myanmars ethnic Rohingya. But it said more discussion would be needed to determine whether the Rohingya community will be recognized as a national ethnic group.

Sunil Barua in Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, and Kamran Reza Chowdhury in Dhaka contributed to this report.
President Biden announced Thursday that Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, the leader of the violent Islamic State group, known as ISIS, blew himself up during an overnight raid carried out by U.S. military forces in northwest Syria.

Last night, operating on my orders, the United States military forces successfully removed a major terrorist threat to the world, the global leader of ISIS, Biden said in remarks from the Roosevelt Room hours after the White House released his statement on the late-night raid. Thanks to the bravery of our troops, this horrible terrorist leader is no more.

Al-Qurayshi, also known as Hajji Abdullah, took over as head of ISIS in 2019, days after the groups former leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, died during a U.S. raid in the same area.

Since then, ISIS has directed terrorist operations targeting Americans, our allies and our partners, and countless civilians in the Middle East, Africa and in South Asia, Biden said.

President Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and other members of their national security staff watch the operation in Syria from the Situation Room on Thursday. (The White House/Handout via Reuters)

The president said al-Qurayshi oversaw the spread of ISIS-affiliated terrorist groups around the world and was the driving force behind the genocide of Yazidis in northwestern Iraq in 2014.

We all remember the gut-wrenching stories, the mass slaughters that wiped out entire villages, Biden said. Thousands of women and young girls sold into slavery; rape used as a weapon of war.

Biden said that al-Qurayshi died just like al-Baghdadi  by exploding a bomb that killed himself and members of his family, including women and children, as U.S. forces approached.

In a final act of desperate cowardice, with no regard to the lives of his family or others in the building, he chose to blow himself up  taking several members of his family with him  just as his predecessor did, Biden said.

People inspect a house following a counterterrorism operation carried out by the U.S. military in Syria on Thursday. (Ghaith Alsayed/AP)

The president said he had directed the Department of Defense to take every precaution possible to minimize civilian casualties.

Knowing this terrorist had chosen to surround himself with families, including children, we made a choice to pursue a special forces raid, with greater risk to our own people, rather than targeting him with an airstrike, Biden explained.

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On Thursday, Syria Civil Defense, an aid group also known as the White Helmets, said that at least 13 people had been killed during the operation, including four women and six children. The group did not provide further details on the identities of those killed.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said that at least three civilians were killed during the raid, but added that U.S. forces "succeeded in protecting more than 10 women, children and babies."

Members of Syria Civil Defense remove a body following the raid. (Abdulaziz Ketaz/AFP via Getty Images)

A helicopter that suffered mechanical problems was "abandoned and detonated" by U.S. troops, Kirby said.

Before his White House remarks, Biden said in a statement that "all Americans have returned safely from the operation.

Kirby confirmed that there were no American casualties. One of al-Qurayshi's lieutenants and the lieutenant's wife exchanged gunfire with U.S. forces, Kirby said, and they were both killed along with a child.

In a statement, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that "given the complexity of this mission, we will take a look at the possibility our actions may also have resulted in harm to innocent people."

"We're always mindful of the potential for civilian harm," Kirby said. "And while the strong indications are here that the lives taken in this operation, the lives of innocents taken in this operation, were caused by Abdullah and his decision to blow himself up and everybody else with him on that third floor, as well as the resistance of his lieutenant on the second floor, we're willing to take a look, to examine and make sure that there wasn't any action that we might have taken that could have also caused harm to innocents."

Late last year, the New York Times reported that a U.S. airstrike in Syria in 2019 killed dozens of women and children. In November, the Pentagon ordered a high-level investigation into the strike.

President Biden speaks about the counterterrorism operation in Syria from the Roosevelt Room of the White House Thursday. (Photo by Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Last night's operation took a major terrorist leader off the battlefield, Biden said at the conclusion of his remarks. And it sent a strong message to terrorists around the world: We will come after you and find you.
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Philadelphia Ballet is pleased to announce that Juliano Nunes has been named the company's Resident Choreographer for its upcoming 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 seasons. Nunes, an internationally acclaimed and sought-after choreographer, has connected with and captivated a broad audience around the world. As Resident Choreographer, Nunes will create two new works with Philadelphia Ballet, one for the company, which will premiere on February 3, 2022 as part of the Ballet's upcoming New Works for a New World program, and one in February 2023 as part of Philadelphia Ballet's 2022/2023 Season.

"We are always searching for new choreographers, who, through their choreography, provide the freedom for our dancers to excel in sharing with our audiences their high level of technique and passion as artists," said Angel Corella, Artistic Director. "In Juliano, we have found a passionate artist with a unique, sophisticated, and original choreographic vocabulary that harnesses the very best of what our company has to offer. This makes this partnership a perfect match."

Juliano Nunes' artistic sensibility and distinctive choreographic voice have earned him international praise from critics and audiences alike, and he has worked extensively with leading ballet companies and choreographers across the globe. He has been a collaborator of Philadelphia Ballet since 2019 when he made his debut with the company's production of Connection. Connection was revived by the company this past October as part of Philadelphia Ballet's triple-bill The Spark, and was also presented by the company that month at New Work City Center's Fall for Dance. His second and most recent work with Philadelphia Ballet, Encounters, was part of the company's 2021 Digital Spring Season and was hailed as "exquisite" and a "must-see" by the Philadelphia Inquirer. Juliano, also known as @nunes.art on Instagram, has 291,000 followers who eagerly watch his every move as he creates works for ballet and dance companies around the globe.

"I look forward to exploring the layers of creativity with Philadelphia Ballet. A place where I feel home, a place that embraced me since the beginning of my journey," said Juliano Nunes, Resident Choreographer. "I feel extremely honored and excited to bring the audiences on a yearly magical journey, filled with joy and endless possibilities of bodies in conversation."

Philadelphia Ballet Resident Choreographer Juliano Nunes is generously supported Angel's Angels: Madeleine Plonsker, Myriam Castillo, and Jennifer Malherbe.

About Juliano Nunes

Juliano Nunes (b. 1990) is one of the world's most important and sought-after young choreographers. After training at the Brazilian Dance Conservatory in Rio de Janeiro, Nunes furthered his studies at the Mannheim University of Music and Performing Arts in Germany, where he received a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts. He has worked with companies including Royal Ballet of Flanders, Leipzig Opera Ballet, Badisches Staatstheater Karlsruhe, and Stuttgart Gauthier Dance, along with such notable choreographers as William Forsythe, Christopher Wheeldon, Hans van Manen, Jiri Kylian, Ohad Naharin, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, Yuri Grigorovich, Akram Kahn, and many others.

Nunes has gone on to receive critical acclaim for his own choreography and has created pieces for the Royal Ballet in London, Nederlands Dans Theatre 2, Acosta Danza, Philadelphia Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Mariinsky Theatre, Ballet Zurich Opera House, Ballet Jazz de Montreal, Staatstheater Hannover, Origen Festival Cultural, and Teatro San Carlo. Nunes has also contributed choreography for the hit Netflix series "Tiny Pretty Things". His previous work with Philadelphia Ballet includes Connection (2019) and Encounters (2021).

About Philadelphia Ballet

Founded in 1963 by Barbara Weisberger, a protege of George Balanchine, Philadelphia Ballet is one of the nation's premier ballet companies and a true cultural treasure of Philadelphia. Furthering a nearly sixty-year artistic lineage in Philadelphia, Artistic Director Angel Corella leads an ensemble of 45 dancers from around the world and an ever-evolving repertoire of classic and contemporary works. Executive Director Shelly Power spearheads development and strategic plans to strengthen and expand the company's presence and impact locally, nationally, and internationally. Recognized as one of the top ten ballet companies in the United States, Philadelphia Ballet's 30-member Board of Trustees is led by local business leader and philanthropist David F. Hoffman. In addition to its performances on the Kimmel Center Cultural Campus, Philadelphia Ballet serves more than 17,000 individuals across the region every year with hands-on arts education and engagement activities brought to children and adults alike regardless of ability or socioeconomic background. The School of Philadelphia Ballet offers the highest caliber dance education of any program in the Greater Philadelphia area. For more, visit philadelphiaballet.org or connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Philadelphia Ballet is supported in part by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Community & Economic Development and receives support from The Philadelphia Cultural Fund and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

SOURCE Philadelphia Ballet
Bandipora: The Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested a hybrid terrorist belonging to The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), in Bandipora district of north Kashmir.

The police said in a statement, "Bandipora police and security forces came to know the suspicious movement of TRF terrorist in Chandergeer Hajin. Accordingly, a naka was placed by Bandipora Police along with 13 RR at Check-Chanderger Hajin. While conducting search of pedestrians and vehicles one suspect person tried to hide himself on seeing the searching party but he was tactfully apprehended and on his search 1 pistol 3 Chinese grenade were recovered and on further investigation he gave 04 Pistol Rounds and 02 more Chinese hand Grenades."

The arrested terrorist was identified as Shabir Ahmad Dar resident of Chandergeer Hajin.

A police officer said, "Being a hybrid terrorist of TRF outfit, he was working on the directions of handlers--Lala Umar and Huzaifa-- both Pakistani terrorists across the border." Police said he was assigned the task of reviving local militancy in the Bandipora district.

The statement further said, "The accused was arrested in 2017 for his involvement in subversive activities and close proximity with the LeT commanders in Hajin area at that time.While in Jail he was motivated by some LeT terrorists. Soon after he started subversive activities, he was apprehended before he could do any further damage to peace and tranquility by way of motivating local youth to join terror ranks."

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People vaccinated in foreign country can now get further doses in Slovakia.

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Slovaks and foreigners who received a Covid-19 vaccine abroad have been complaining for months of problems getting further doses in Slovakia or an EU Digital Covid Pass.

Our paywall policy The Slovak Spectator has decided to make all the articles on the special measures, statistics and basic information about the coronavirus available to everyone. If you appreciate our work and would like to support good journalism, please buy our subscription. We believe this is an issue where accurate and fact-based information is important for people to cope.

They cite a lengthy and sometimes complicated process of vaccination verification at the Health Ministry.

But now the National Health Information Centre (NCZI) claims problems with registration of a vaccine given abroad when applying for a second or third jab in Slovakia have been solved.

If you were vaccinated abroad and you want a second or third dose in Slovakia, you should arrive, without registration, with an affidavit and confirmation of the [first] vaccination at a vaccination centre or outpatient department, NCZI said.

This system will start operating as of February 9, 2022.

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Following vaccination, the data will be entered into the system, and the vaccinated person will be able to request an EU Digital Covid Pass, which will include the entry for the current dose, NCZI added.

How will it work?

The National Health Information Centre will soon publish a sample of the relevant affidavit at korona.gov.sk. Anyone interested in getting a second or third dose must give true, full, and correct information.

They should then print the affidavit, sign it and, without registration for a vaccination, go to their general practitioner (if the person has health insurance in Slovakia) or their local vaccination centre, with the original and a copy of confirmation of their vaccination abroad. Prior registration for vaccination is not necessary.

The doctor or staff at the vaccination centre will administer the relevant jab after these documents have been presented, and enter the relevant data into the system, in accordance with the EU directive on the EU Digital Covid Pass.

After the administration of a second or third dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, anyone who has had previous vaccinations abroad can apply online at korona.gov.sk for their EU Digital Covid Pass to be issued. Only the dose received in Slovakia will be recorded. Vaccination centres and doctors will not upload records of vaccinations abroad.

"We are working in cooperation with institutions of the European Union and its member states on other processes for recognising vaccinations given abroad," NCZI added.

More on coronavirus development:
Ukraine and Turkey have signed an agreement that will significantly expand the production of Bayraktar unmanned combat aerial vehicles in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

He stated this at a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Kyiv on Thursday, February 3, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"I am confident that our talks will lead to a very practical result that will strengthen the security of our country, the energy security of our countries and not only our countries but also the countries of the region," Zelensky said.

He said that during the talks, special attention was paid to cooperation between Ukraine and Turkey in the aviation and defense industries. Zelensky stressed that this was a priority in the strategic partnership between the states.

"Our goal is to implement specific projects, create joint ventures, share experiences, and exchange technologies. Today, an agreement was signed that will significantly expand the production of Bayraktar unmanned aerial vehicles in Ukraine. These are new technologies, new jobs, the strengthening of the state's defense capabilities," Zelensky said.

He also said that Ukraine and Turkey seek to "give a new impetus" to energy cooperation.

Erdogan is on an official visit to Ukraine on February 3.

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Insightec Exablate Prostate system used at a United States hospital commercially for the first time by Stanford Health Care

SAN FRANCISCO and MIAMI, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Insightec, a global healthcare company creating the next generation of patient care by realizing the therapeutic power of acoustic energy, announced today the treatment of the first US commercial patient for prostate disease at Stanford Health Care using Insightecs Exablate Prostate system.

The Insightec Exablate Prostate system uses sound waves to ablate, or destroy, targeted tissue in the prostate. The treatment is performed in a single session under Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) guidance for high resolution visualization of the patient's anatomy for precise targeting and real-time temperature monitoring. The treatment is incisionless, typically allowing patients to quickly return to normal activity with minimal complications.

"We are deeply committed to continuing to transform patient care with minimally invasive, innovative surgical procedures. The Exablate Prostate system will help support a better quality of life for people diagnosed and living with prostate disease," commented Maurice R. Ferre MD, Insightec CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Stanford Health Care participated in clinical trials for the Exablate Prostate system and reported minimal damage to adjacent structures and low rates of impact on potency and continence. The Insightec Exablate Prostate system received 510(k) FDA clearance in November 2021, making way for the system to be offered to patients in a commercial facility.

To read more about Exablate Prostate FDA clearance: https://insightec.com/insightec-announces-fda-clearance-for-exablate-prostate/.

About Insightec

Insightec is a global healthcare company creating the next generation of patient care by realizing the therapeutic power of acoustic energy. The company's Exablate technology focuses sound waves, safely guided by MRI, to provide treatment to patients with Prostate Disease, Essential Tremor and Parkinson's Disease. Research for future applications is underway in partnership with leading academic and medical institutions. Insightec is headquartered in Haifa, Israel, and Miami with offices in Dallas, Shanghai, and Tokyo.

Visit www.insightec.com for more information.

Forward-looking Statements:

This document contains forward-looking statements regarding, among other things, plans, expectations, and future events. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the following words: "may," "can," "will," "could," "would," "should," "expect," "intend," "plan," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "project," "potential," "promise," "continue," "ongoing," or the negative of these terms. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from what is expressed or implied by the statements. Any forward-looking statement is based on information available to Insightec as of the date of the statement. All written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to Insightec are qualified by this caution. Insightec does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in circumstances or in Insightec's expectations.

"Exablate" and the "INSIGHTEC" logo, whether standing alone or in connection with the word "Insightec", are protected trademarks of Insightec.

Insightec Media Contact:

G&S Business Communications for Insightec

Marjani Williams

[email protected]

(312) 648-6700 ext. 2108

SOURCE Insightec
ATLANTA, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nox Health , the global sleep health leader committed to helping people wake up to a brighter world, has welcomed Victoria (Vic) Noble as Chief Marketing Officer, Maureen Connolly as Senior Vice President of Content and Larisa Thomas as Vice President of Security. These three strategic leaders will support new client initiatives as the company expands its global team.



Vic is an expert marketer with a diverse business background in the healthcare industry, said President and Chief Growth Officer, Heidi Anderson. She will be an asset to our rapidly-growing company as we continue to reach new sectors and increase brand awareness for our innovative sleep health products and services.

Noble is an executive leader who has established brand marketing and growth strategies for numerous healthcare companies including AstraZeneca, Shire and Idorsia. With her focus on the human experience and innovation, she is known for her strategic vision, value generation and for mentoring and developing talent. Vic was most recently Head of Customer Experience at Idorsia, where she developed the U.S. go-to-market strategy for the companys first commercial launch into the sleep space with an FDA-approved insomnia product.

Maureen Connolly comes to Nox Health with a wealth of knowledge focused on digital health and content strategy. As an award-winning journalist she leads teams of writers, editors and producers to create content in multiple formats, including articles, video, podcasts, television and documentary films. She most recently served as Editor in Chief of Everyday Health, a consumer health website covering chronic conditions mental health and the emergence and management of COVID-19.

Maureen is an accomplished journalist and communicator who will bring an elevated level of storytelling expertise on all things sleep, continued Anderson. Her wide range of experience in articulating the complexities of health issues will offer a fresh insight and bring a deeper breadth and depth of communication strategy to our growing company.

Larisa Thomas, Nox Healths new Vice President of Security, most recently served as Chief Information Security Officer for a local government organization in Colorado where she established an Information Security program from the ground up. Prior to that, she built an Information Security and Compliance department at a health and wellness company and achieved PCI compliance in record time. Larisa is passionate about cyber security education and believes that security is truly everyone's responsibility.

Larisa is a seasoned leader with more than 20 years of experience building teams and managing security, governance, risk and compliance, said Anderson. She has experience working for a variety of industries including local government, health and wellness, financial services, manufacturing, insurance and retail which will serve our company well.

Im thrilled to add these three impeccable leaders to the Nox team to accelerate our growth.

Nox Health delivers proven, people-centered solutions that address the global sleep epidemic. In the United States, Nox Health provides the SleepCharge program to employer-sponsored health plans and health systems, a comprehensive solution that helps people access sleep healthcare, establish medical care and long-term treatment and support. Currently, hundreds of thousands of employees of U.S. companies have access to SleepCharge.

About Nox Health

Nox Health is a global sleep health leader, committed to people-centered products and services that address the worldwide sleep epidemic and promote access to sleep healthcare for long-term treatment and support. Nox Health delivers unmatched data quality and insights to clinicians through Nox Medical sleep testing devices and technology. Its offerings also include SleepCharge sleep health programs and Nox Cloud sleep solutions for medical systems and payers. More than 10 million people in 48 countries wake up to a brighter world each day because of Nox Health solutions. For more information, visit NoxHealth.com .

Media Contact:

Kellie Merritt

(678) 372-4849

kellie.merritt@seesparkgo.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a6f89cfa-0566-4be7-a2ec-b9eb70c5479a
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For the first time in a long while, theres good news about Covid-19. The omicron wave is cresting in the U.S., and in many states is already receding. A respite from SARS-CoV-2 could well follow. And if new variants eventually emerge, it may be possible to live with them  that is, without shutting businesses, always wearing masks, and social distancing.

A return to normal  that modest but elusive goal  should be possible once Covid-19 hospitalizations fall from thousands each day much closer to the hundreds associated with a bad flu season. Ensuring it lasts will require careful monitoring, better data collection, and a nationwide effort to prevent another crisis.

Five things in particular need to be monitored:

1. Surges in Covid cases and deaths anywhere in the world. Working with the World Health Organization, the U.S. should help other countries keep a close eye on Covid-19 outbreaks (as well as outbreaks of other contagious respiratory illnesses) and report data quickly and publicly, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does in the United States.

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2. Genomic changes in the coronavirus. To detect the arrival of new variants, the CDC must improve its efforts to analyze the genetic code of the virus found in people who test positive. The agency conducts such testing in certain areas, but it has yet to build out a sufficiently extensive and geographically representative system, leaving the U.S. dependent on other countries for news of emerging variants. All patients who experience severe breakthrough infections should have their viruses analyzed.

3. Vaccine effectiveness. Working with vaccine makers and independent scientists, the Food and Drug Administration and the CDC need to jointly monitor Americans for waning immunity, especially as new variants arise. All the existing vaccines are expected to lose some of their power with time. Its crucial to continually assess their effectiveness and have boosters available as needed.

4. Covids presence in sewage. Measuring the level of coronavirus in public wastewater systems can provide an early warning of Covid surges and likewise indicate when infections are waning. The CDC created the National Wastewater Surveillance System in 2020 to work with state and local health departments to test wastewater. In the process, it needs to strengthen standards for sewage testing and ensure that measurements from various systems are comparable.

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5. Hospital-bed availability and staffing levels. Accurate and timely information from states on hospital capacity can also indicate when viral infections are surging. The CDC already compiles such data, but state-level statistics arent always up to date or consistent. Refining this system can help ensure that the countrys hospitals are prepared to handle an outbreak.

All this information should be uploaded to public databases. Also needed is a clear sense of how much Covid Americans are willing to live with. Ezekiel Emanuel, of the University of Pennsylvania, suggests setting a risk threshold for Covid, flu and other viruses together of about 35,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths in a week. Beyond those levels  or similar benchmarks  elected officials could consider reimposing mask mandates and other restrictions to protect health-care systems from overload.

Of course, Covid alone caused about four times that many hospitalizations and five times that many deaths last week. But the numbers are falling, and with luck the omicron wave will have receded by spring. Its time to look ahead with cautious optimism, and to put sensible measures in place to end the permanent crisis.

More From Other Writers at Bloomberg Opinion:



Experts Dont Agree on What Endemic Covid Means: Faye Flam



What Will Covid Do Next? A Top Pandemic Doctor Has Ideas: Michael Lewis



Covid-19 Shows the Need for Better Global Mortality Data: Editorial

Editorials are written by the Bloomberg Opinion editorial board.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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KENOSHA  Officials with U.S. Coast Guard Station Kenosha cant wait for warmer weather.

Its not to break up the ice on Lake Michigan, but to show their excitement and get out and meet the community.

Operations Petty Officer Ryan Huber said the station has quickly been embraced by southeast Wisconsin, despite the chilly weather, since returning to full 24/7 operations last fall.

The welcome has been phenomenal, Huber said, Were excited to get out there when its a little warmer and meet everybody.

In September 2017, Station Kenosha was decommissioned as a full-time operating station, and was established as a seasonal facility that was only staffed from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend each year. During those months, the unit was staffed with a boat crew from Station Milwaukee, where all command and control operations were based.

Though it worked during the summer months, it substantially degraded the response times outside of those months due to the distance from Milwaukee to Kenosha and surrounding areas.

With the recommissioning of Station Kenosha back to a fully staffed, year-round station, response times to the boating public have been drastically faster resulting in a safer maritime environment for the community, officials said.

Winter rescues, weekly training

Rescues this winter season so far have been minimal, Huber said, the most notable being a fisherman who fell into the harbor right outside the Coast Guards boathouse.

If youre going to fall in, its the best place to be, Huber said.

However, weekly training and equipment checks continue on ice rescue vehicles, including a pickup truck equipped with an inflatable craft and a 29-foot rescue boat. Huber said the larger boat is currently docked in Milwaukee until the ice clears.

During the winter, Huber said they always have someone stationed on radio monitoring, making sure they can respond as quickly as possible to any emergency calls.

To operate in often freezing temperatures, Huber said the Coast Guard personnel have special dry suits designed with multiple layers to protect against hypothermia.

Each rescue presents its unique type of dangers, Huber said.

Use life jackets while ice fishing

With the ice comes the dangers of falling into the water during ice fishing.

We understand its part of the community culture, Huber said. We advise people to wear a life jacket. All that gear you wear is heavy, so it could be life-saving.

The Kenosha station serves the waters from Diversey Harbor in Chicago up to Wind Point Lighthouse in Racine.

The precursor to the current Coast Guard station was built in 1879, which received the first motor-driven lifesaving boat on Lake Michigan. A new station was built in 1934.
MUMBAI: Actor Kangana Ranaut is extremely excited to host the upcoming reality show titled 'Lock Upp'. In the upcoming show, 16 controversial celebrities will be put together in a lock up for months and will be stripped of their amenities.

Talking about the project, Kangana said, "I am thrilled and excited for foraying into the OTT with such a unique and brilliant concept. The scale and reach of both ALTBalaji and MX Player are massive. I am sure this show will give me a great opportunity to get in touch with my fans and entertain them as the host of Lock Upp. I want to thank the boss lady Ekta for always being by my side, she has always been someone I admire and respect a lot. I am glad that she is there with me for my OTT debut as well. To all my fans out there, get ready for the most FEARLESS show ever."

Produced by Endemol Shine India, the show premiers on ALTBalaji and MX Player from February 27.

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Real Housewives of Jersey star Sarha Courtnay revealed her weight loss and surgery transformation after joining the cast of the ITV reality show.

The businesswoman, 36, who joined the show at the beginning of series two, showcased her sizzling new figure in a racy lingerie shoot this week.

Sarha told MailOnline how she has wanted a nose job since the age of 13 and finally took the plunge last August after she had filmed the show.

New look: Real Housewives of Jersey star Sarha Courtnay revealed her weight loss and surgery transformation after joining the cast of the ITV reality show

Explaining she had put on some 'lockdown pounds', Sarha said: 'When I joined the cast of the Real Housewives of Jersey it was 2 weeks after moving to Jersey...

'They had already started filming and it was during the on-going lockdowns so as I'm sure many can relate, I had definitely gained some lockdown pounds!

'I had booked to have my nose done in August, something which I've wanted to do since I was 13, and this kickstarted my weight loss journey.'

Sarha has since dropped 20lbs and has gone from a size 12-14 to a 10.

Candid: Sarha told MailOnline how she has wanted a nose job since the age of 13 and finally took the plunge last August after she had filmed the show (pictured in 2016)

Sizzling: The businesswoman, 36, who joined the show at the beginning of series two, showcased her sizzling new figure in a racy lingerie shoot this week

In the new shots, Sarha looked incredible in the black lace lingerie, which featured a balcony style bra - highlighting her assets - teamed with a matching thong.

The simple two piece showcased Sarha's incredible frame as she posed up a storm for the photographer.

Glamorous Sarha, who wore her blonde locks in bouncy curls, added a silk shirt and a pair of lace-up heels to her look.

Surgery: 'I had booked to have my nose done in August, something which I've wanted to do since I was 13, and this kickstarted my weight loss journey'

In another look, Sarha wore a white body and a cosy cropped knit cardigan in blush as she lounged on a sofa which appeared to be in a plush hotel room.

Further glam looks saw Sarha don a slinky black gown which hugged her toned frame, with glitzy diamonte cut outs across the midriff.

Sahra continued: 'I wanted to be the best version of me. Body and image confidence is so individual and it's something I want to champion further in one of my new businesses.'

Woah! Sarha has since dropped 20lbs and has gone from a size 12-14 to a 10

Sahra continued: 'I wanted to be the best version of me. Body and image confidence is so individual and it's something I want to champion further in one of my new businesses'

'I'm in the process of setting up and opening an aesthetics clinic in Jersey.

'We will be investing in the latest technologies and working with some of the top Doctors and aestheticians from around the world.

'The aim of the clinic is to create a trusted environment offering clients the latest treatments and allowing them to leave feeling the best versions of themselves.

'Mike and I are also busy with our property development business having just acquired a new building which we start work on soon so it's really all go at the moment!'

She added: 'I'm in the process of setting up and opening an aesthetics clinic in Jersey'

Sarha recently opened up about her nose job and shared before and after photos of the process on her Instagram page.

She wrote: 'As I've previously mentioned I had my nose done just after we finished filming. It's something I wanted to do since I was 13 and it was the best thing I ever did, but I must highlight it was the best thing for ME!

'However, I must stress that the recovery was hard, those first two weeks were horrendous, BUT, I am soooooo glad I did it!

'This may not be right for you, and I can't STRESS enough how important it is to do your research, meet different doctors, and make sure it's the right thing for YOU!'
Were going to hold it responsible, President Pedro Castillo declared at a rally. Were going to defend the sea, and were going to condemn and sanction the company thats been polluting our sea.

Still, Peruvian investigators say they will also look into the claim that the Peruvian Navy did not meet its duty to issue a tsunami alert. The Navy, which has come under criticism from other quarters for not issuing an alert, says it is conducting its own investigation as well.

Even some of the most basic facts are under dispute  among them the conditions of the waters off the refinery that day.

While the company cited unusual waves, the captain of the Italian tanker that was delivering Brazilian crude to the refinery said that the water had not been particularly rough and that the vessel had not collided with any part of the terminals infrastructure. The head of a local boating association has also said the sea was fairly calm, as have Navy officials.
(Getty Images)

The political action committee for Democratic Senator Kyrsten Sinema spent lavishly during a fundraising trip to Europe last October amid negotiations for Democratss Build Back Better negotiations.

The Arizona Democrat, whom many in her own party criticise for her support for the filibuster and criticism of parts of Democratss proposed Build Back Better legislation.

Ms Sinema said she opposed the initial $3.5 trillion price tag, which was the proposed cost for the bill before it was pared down to $1.75 trillion. She had also opposed part of the legislation to allow Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices before reaching a deal that one Democratic aide called a Trojan horse devised by Big Pharma.

Ms Sinema also hesitated to give specifics on details she wanted in the legislation until the bipartisan infrastructure bill passed, Politico reported.

At the same time, Ms Sinema racked up a big win when the House and Senate passed the infrastructure bill she negotiated with Republican Sen Rob Portman of Ohio, which Mr Biden signed into law.

All the while, Ms Sinema seemed to reap some major fundraising rewards. The latest Federal Election Commission report from her Getting Stuff Done PAC showed that it had a total of $477,500 in receipts. In August, the PAC received at $2500 from pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and Companys PAC and in November, after she had reached the deal on prescription drugs with the White House, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. PAC cut her a check for $2,500.

Similarly, Ms Sinemas PAC received a total of $5,000 from Fox Newss parent corporation Fox Corporations PAC. It also received $5,000 from Comcast Corp. & NBC Universals PAC.

In October, the Arizona Democrat also traveled to Europe where her PAC spent money at locations in London and Paris.

In London, Ms Sinemas PAC spent $1228.49 in event catering services at Pied a Terre, a French restaurant with a Michelin Star. Similarly, it spent $985.60 at sketch, a restaurant in the wealthy Mayfair area of London. One meeting meal at the Slug and Lettuce cost $56.48 while another meal at Domino Room at Cafe Royal went was expensed for $287.46. The PAC also spent $1360.33 with Crawford Cars Ltd. for a car service.

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The PAC spent a total of $2784.97 at Le Roch Hotel & Spa, a five-star hotel in Paris for lodging. It also spent $325.82 at Buddha-Bar in the city for event catering. It also spent $150.65 at Anchora St Honor in Paris for catering.

Plenty of politicians raise money offshores with US citizens. As The New York Timesreported at the time, Sen Gary Peters of Michigan, who is chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, was in Europe around the same time.

Ms Sinema did not respond to a question about this from The Independent as she walked onto the Senate floor and an email has been sent to her Senate office.
The Minister of Energy, Virgil Popescu, will take part in the following days in the Advisory Council of the Southern gas Corridor, an event which takes place every year in Baku, the Republic of Azerbaijan, according to his Facebook page.

"Today (Thursday, ed. n) I had a bilateral meeting with the Azeri Minister of Energy, Parviz Shahbazov. I sent a message that Romania grants a special importance to the Strategic Partnership with the Republic of Azerbaijan and congratulated the lasting, extremely fruitful collaboration in the energy sector. I congratulated him for the significant contribution the Southern gas Corridor had in this sense, since it became operational, proving to be extremely efficient and useful in this very difficult energy context that we have faced, especially from the standpoint of the natural gas major deficit," the Minister wrote, Agerpres.ro informs.

"Furthermore, I assured my counterpart that Romania will support a tighter collaboration between the European Commission and Azerbaijan for increasing the volume of natural gas delivered to Europe, as well as diversifying sources of transport and supply. I also told the Azeri part that Romania is open as regards the increase of the SOCAR company's investments in our country, both in the field of electricity production, as well as in the area of chemical fertilizer market. We are open to a possible collaboration between Romania, Azerbaijan and Georgia for building together an underwater cable for the transportation of electricity, underneath the Black Sea. It was a meeting with good perspectives for Romania," the post also reads.
TORONTO, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Amarillo Gold Corporation (Amarillo or the Company) (TSXV: AGC, OTCQB: AGCBF) has mailed and filed a management information circular (the Circular) and related materials (the Meeting Materials) for its special meeting (the Meeting) of shareholders (collectively, Shareholders) to be held at 11:00 a.m. (Eastern time) on March 1, 2022, in connection with the proposed acquisition (the Transaction) of Amarillo by Hochschild Mining PLC (Hochschild).



About the Meeting

Due to the ongoing public health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and to ensure the health and well-being of our Shareholders, employees, communities, and other stakeholders, the Meeting will be conducted virtually via live webcast online at https://meetnow.global/MJ6JNWH .

Registered Shareholders and duly appointed proxyholders will be able to vote in real time and ask questions at the Meeting by following the instructions set out in the Circular.

Beneficial Shareholders who have not duly appointed themselves as proxyholders may attend the Meeting as guests. Guests may listen but cannot vote at the Meeting or ask questions.

Shareholders should closely review the Meeting Materials to ensure that they are able to cast their vote at and participate in the Meeting.

The Meeting Materials contain important information regarding the Transaction, how Shareholders can participate and vote at the Meeting, the background that led to the Transaction and the reasons for the unanimous determinations of the special committee of independent directors of the Company (the Special Committee) as well as the board of directors of the Company (the Board) that the Transaction is in the best interests of the Company and is fair to Shareholders.

Shareholders should carefully review all the Meeting Materials as they contain important information concerning the Transaction and the rights and entitlements of Shareholders thereunder. The Meeting Materials have been filed by the Company on SEDAR and are available under the Companys profile at www.sedar.com.

Receipt of Interim Court Order

On January 27, 2022, Amarillo obtained an interim order (the Interim Order) from the Supreme Court of British Columbia (the Court) authorizing the holding of the Meeting and matters relating to the conduct of the Meeting. At the Meeting, Shareholders will be asked to consider and, if deemed advisable, pass a special resolution (the Arrangement Resolution) to approve an arrangement (the Arrangement), in accordance with the terms of an arrangement agreement (the Arrangement Agreement) entered into by the Company and Hochschild on November 29, 2021, pursuant to which Hochschild, through its subsidiary 1334940 B.C. Ltd. (the Purchaser), agreed to acquire all of the issued and outstanding Amarillo common shares (Amarillo Shares) that it does not already own by way of a statutory plan of arrangement (the Plan of Arrangement) under section 288 of the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Shareholders will also be asked to approve an omnibus equity incentive plan (the Omnibus Plan) for Lavras SpinCo (defined below).

Transaction details

Under the terms of the Transaction, each share of Amarillo will be exchanged for cash consideration of C$0.40 and one share of a new Brazil-focused exploration company, Lavras Gold Corp. (Lavras SpinCo), based in Toronto, Ontario. Lavras SpinCo will be capitalized with C$10 million cash and will hold all assets and rights with respect the Lavras do Sul gold project (the Lavras Project) located in southern Brazil in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, and a 2.0% net smelter revenue royalty on certain exploration properties outside the current Posse resource at the Mara Rosa Project (the SpinCo Royalty).

The Arrangement Agreement contemplates a reciprocal expense reimbursement/non-completion fee of C$2.5 million payable if the required shareholder approval is not obtained or on the occurrence of certain other circumstances. In addition, the Arrangement Agreement provides for a termination fee of C$5 million payable by Amarillo to Hochschild if the Arrangement is not completed or is terminated by Amarillo or Hochschild in certain circumstances, including if Amarillo enters into an agreement with respect to a superior proposal or if the Board, in certain circumstances, withdraws or modifies its recommendation with respect to the Arrangement. The Arrangement Agreement also provides for customary non-solicitation covenants, subject to customary fiduciary out provisions entitling Amarillo to consider and accept a superior proposal and a right in favor of Hochschild to match any superior proposal.

A copy of the Arrangement Agreement has been filed by Amarillo on SEDAR and is reviewable under Amarillos profile at www.sedar.com.

Reasons for the Arrangement

In evaluating and unanimously approving the Arrangement, the Board consulted its legal and financial advisors and the Special Committee. The Special Committee and the Board carefully considered a number of factors and reasons, including, among others, the following:

Significant Premium to Unaffected Market Price. The consideration offered to Shareholders under the Arrangement represents a premium of approximately 74% to the closing price of the Amarillo Shares of $0.23 on the TSXV on November 29, 2021, the last trading day prior to the announcement of the Arrangement, and a premium of approximately 66% to the volume weighted average price of the Amarillo Shares on the TSXV over the 20-trading day period ended November 29, 2021, of $0.24. The Special Committee was of the view that the opportunity for Shareholders to realize this premium outweighed Amarillo maintaining the status quo.

The consideration offered to Shareholders under the Arrangement represents a premium of approximately 74% to the closing price of the Amarillo Shares of $0.23 on the TSXV on November 29, 2021, the last trading day prior to the announcement of the Arrangement, and a premium of approximately 66% to the volume weighted average price of the Amarillo Shares on the TSXV over the 20-trading day period ended November 29, 2021, of $0.24. Continued Exposure to Other Amarillo Assets. Shareholders, through their ownership of Lavras SpinCo shares, will have continued exposure to the other Amarillo assets being transferred to Lavras SpinCo, including the Butia Prospect, which forms part of the Lavras do Sul Project, and the SpinCo Royalty.

Significant Shareholder Support. All the directors and senior officers of Amarillo and the two largest shareholders of Amarillo, Baccarat Trade Investments Limited and 2176423 Ontario Ltd., have entered into support agreements with Hochschild, in each case, pursuant to which they have, subject to the terms and conditions of such agreements, agreed, among other things, to vote all their Amarillo Shares in favour of the Arrangement Resolution. In the aggregate, the parties to these agreements collectively own or control approximately 44% of the issued and outstanding Amarillo Shares, on a non-diluted basis, as of the record date for the Meeting.

All the directors and senior officers of Amarillo and the two largest shareholders of Amarillo, Baccarat Trade Investments Limited and 2176423 Ontario Ltd., have entered into support agreements with Hochschild, in each case, pursuant to which they have, subject to the terms and conditions of such agreements, agreed, among other things, to vote all their Amarillo Shares in favour of the Arrangement Resolution. In the aggregate, the parties to these agreements collectively own or control approximately 44% of the issued and outstanding Amarillo Shares, on a non-diluted basis, as of the record date for the Meeting. Fairness Opinion. Research Capital Corporation was engaged by Amarillo as financial advisor to Amarillo and the Special Committee and provided its opinion to the Board and the Special Committee to the effect that, as of November 29, 2021, and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications set out in the fairness opinion, the consideration to be received by Shareholders under the Arrangement is fair, from a financial point of view, to Shareholders other than Hochschild.

Research Capital Corporation was engaged by Amarillo as financial advisor to Amarillo and the Special Committee and provided its opinion to the Board and the Special Committee to the effect that, as of November 29, 2021, and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications set out in the fairness opinion, the consideration to be received by Shareholders under the Arrangement is fair, from a financial point of view, to Shareholders other than Hochschild. No Financing or Due Diligence Condition. The consideration to be paid pursuant to the Arrangement will be in cash and shares of Lavras SpinCo and is not subject to financing or due diligence conditions.

The consideration to be paid pursuant to the Arrangement will be in cash and shares of Lavras SpinCo and is not subject to financing or due diligence conditions. Credibility of Hochschild. Hochschilds commitment, creditworthiness, and anticipated ability to complete the Arrangement.

Hochschilds commitment, creditworthiness, and anticipated ability to complete the Arrangement. Guarantee by Hochschild. The Purchasers obligations under the Arrangement Agreement are unconditionally guaranteed by Hochschild.

The Purchasers obligations under the Arrangement Agreement are unconditionally guaranteed by Hochschild. Alternatives to the Arrangement. The Board assessed the current and anticipated future opportunities and risks associated with the business, operations, assets, financial performance, and condition of Amarillo should it continue as a standalone entity, including the challenges faced by Amarillo in sourcing the capital required for its business and development objectives on reasonable commercial terms, the lack of potential sources of such capital, and the costs and expected significant dilution to Shareholders that would likely result from obtaining such capital. The Board and the Special Committee assessed the alternatives reasonably available to Amarillo and determined that the Arrangement represents the best current prospect for maximizing value for Shareholders.

Board recommendation

The Board unanimously recommends that the Shareholders vote FOR the Arrangement Resolution and FOR the approval of the Omnibus Plan.

Pursuant to the Interim Order, the record date for the Meeting is January 19, 2022, for determining Shareholders who are entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Meeting. Only registered Shareholders as of January 19, 2022, are entitled to receive the notice of the Meeting and to attend and vote at the Meeting. In order to become effective, the Arrangement must be approved by at least 66% of the votes cast by Shareholders present or represented by proxy at the Meeting.

Subject to obtaining approval of the Transaction at the Meeting, and the satisfaction of the other customary conditions to completion of the Transaction contained in the Arrangement Agreement, including final approval of the Court and certain regulatory approvals, all as more particular described in the Meeting Materials, the Transaction is expected to close around the end of March 2022.

The TSX Venture Exchange has confirmed acceptance of the notice of the Transaction by Amarillo.

Advisors and counsel

Research Capital Corporation acted as advisor to the Special Committee and Amarillo engaged Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP and Irwin Lowy LLP as its legal counsel in connection with the Transaction.

Hochschild has engaged RBC Capital Markets as its financial advisor, sole sponsor and corporate broker, Stikeman Elliott LLP as its Canadian legal counsel, Pinheiro Neto Advogados as its Brazilian legal counsel, and Linklaters LLP as its UK legal counsel in connection with the Transaction.

ABOUT AMARILLO

Amarillo is advancing two gold projects located near excellent infrastructure in mining-friendly states in Brazil. The development stage Posse Gold Project is on the Companys Mara Rosa Property in Goias State. It has a positive definitive feasibility study that shows it can be built into a profitable operation with low costs and a strong financial return. Mara Rosa also shows the potential for discovering additional near-surface deposits that will extend Posses mine life beyond its initial 10 years. The exploration stage Lavras do Sul Project in Rio Grande do Sul State has more than 23 prospects centered on historic gold workings.

Amarillo trades on the TSXV under the symbol AGC and the OTCQB under the symbol AGCBF. Visit www.amarillogold.com to learn more about the Companys focus on becoming a mid-tier Brazilian gold producer.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Mike Mutchler

President & CEO

416-294-0736

mike.mutchler@amarillogold.com

Annemarie Brissenden

Investor Relations

416-844-6284

annemarie.brissenden@amarillogold.com

DISCLAIMER

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND CAUTIONARY LANGUAGE

Certain information provided in this news release constitutes forward looking statements. Specifically, this news release contains forwardlooking statements relating to: (i) the anticipated timing of the Amarillo shareholder meeting to approve the Arrangement, (ii) the anticipated timing of the closing of the Arrangement, the exploration and development prospects of Lavras SpinCo, and (iv) planned exploration and development activities of Lavras SpinCo.

The forwardlooking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions. With respect to the anticipated timing of the Amarillo shareholder meeting, these include expectations and assumptions concerning the time required to convene the meeting and complete and mail the related information circular. With respect to the anticipated timing of the closing of the Arrangement, these include expectations and assumptions with respect to the timely receipt of all required court, shareholder and regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of all other conditions to the closing of the Arrangement. With respect to the remaining forward-looking statements, these include expectations and assumptions concerning the availability of capital, the success of future drilling and development activities, Lavras SpinCos contractual rights, prevailing commodity prices and economic conditions, the availability of labour and services, the ability to transport and market production, timing of completion of infrastructure and transportation projects, weather and access to drilling locations.

Although Amarillo believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable at the time of preparation, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements as Amarillo can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. With respect to the timing of the completion of the Arrangement, these include risks that the required court, shareholder and regulatory approvals are not obtained on a timely basis, on terms acceptable to the parties or at all and risks that other conditions to the completion of the Arrangement are not satisfied. There is no guarantee that the Arrangement will close at the anticipated time or at all. With respect to the exploration and development prospects of Lavras SpinCo, the planned exploration and development activities of Lavras SpinCo and such factors and risks include, but are not limited to: general economic, market and business conditions; fluctuations in commodity prices; the test results and performance of exploration and development drilling, fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates; the uncertainty of historic resource estimates and estimates of the value of undeveloped land; changes in environmental and other regulations; risks associated with mineral operations; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Amarillo. These and other risks are described further in Amarillos most recently filed management discussion and analysis and its annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2019, which have been filed on SEDAR and may be reviewed under Amarillos profile at www.sedar.com.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof. Except as may be required by applicable securities laws, Amarillo assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forwardlooking statements made herein or otherwise, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities to be distributed pursuant to the Arrangement have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. The securities to be distributed pursuant to the Arrangement will be offered and sold in the United States pursuant to the exemption from registration set forth in Section 3(a)(10) of the U.S. Securities Act and similar exemptions under applicable state securities laws.

PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/c1208aca-b72b-45a4-923c-69fc77d30198
Knocktopher will soon enjoy a more reliable and consistent water supply as Irish Water, working in partnership with Kilkenny County Council are set to replace approximately 1350 metres of aged cast iron water mains with new modern pipes.

The programme to replace the water mains in Knocktopher Village will commence in early February and will be completed in April.

The exact location for the works will be between the Knocktopher Village road sign approximately 150m north of Carrolls Centra, through Knocktopher Village to the Thomastown road junction adjacent to Scoil Aireagail, with the contractor, Shareridge working with the local community and businesses to ensure minimum disruption.

Speaking about the works, Irish Waters Programme Delivery Lead, Joe Carroll said;

These works are extremely important for the community and businesses of the village and surrounding areas. They will improve the water supply significantly in the area and provide some capacity for development through the reduction of the leakage on the network. We are appealing to the local community to bear with us as we carry out the works as they will involve laying new water service connections from the public water main in the road to customers property boundaries and connecting it to the customers water supply.

Where the existing service connections on the public side are lead; these will be replaced as part of this improvement work. It is a good news day for Knocktopher and we are pleased to be in a position to prioritise these works.

The benefits of these leakage reduction works include a more reliable water supply, as the replacement of water mains and service connections will reduce the instances of bursts and water outages ensuring a more reliable supply of water to customers and local businesses in the area. The replacement of water mains and service connections will eliminate existing leaks and reduce the amount of clean drinking water lost into the ground. Removing existing old cast iron and lead from the public water network and replacing them with new pipes will reduce the risk of contamination.

And also the improved operation and maintenance will deliver efficiencies including cost savings by providing improved water network operation that will require less maintenance in the future

Irish Waters customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on Twitter @IWCare with any queries. For updates please visit the Water Supply Updates section of the Irish Water website or set your location on our website www.water.ie

Irish Water has invested over 500 million between 2017 and the end of 2021 to reduce leakage and replace old pipes on the public water network. Fixing leaks can be complicated but we are making progress. In 2018 the rate of leakage nationally was 46%, by the end of 2021 it was reduced to 38%.
A truck carrying rapid antigen tests has rolled on a Gold Coast highway. Emergency services were called just before 3.30am on Thursday to the accident, on a northbound lane of M1 between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The driver, a man in his 50s, suffered facial, leg and chest injuries and was taken to Gold Coast University Hospital in a serious but stable condition. QAS operations supervisor Samuel Thwaite said the driver removed himself from the truck upon arrival, suffering from injuries to his right foot and right side of his abdomen and chest.

We completed some scans on scene with our high-acuity response unit, which came back good but he needed to go to hospital for further investigation, he said. He was very lucky to have even extricated himself from the vehicle, and hes very lucky he didnt get any more serious injuries than that. Mr Thwaite said bystanders came to the mans aid after the truck rolled at the Smith Street on-ramp in Gaven. It was very early in the morning. It was quite dark and there were not many people on the road lucky but there were enough people who came to assist. When Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk was asked about the incident at a press conference on Thursday, where she was delivering news about the latest COVID casualties and test results in the state, she said she was not aware of the incident.
WISTON, England, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading component solutions company and aviation experts Artemis Aerospace has launched a new website and promotional video as it looks to strengthen its brand position across the business's range of services.

Jim Scott, Owner, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Artemis Aerospace

The company, which was established in 1999 by Jim and Deborah Scott, operates a 24/7 service from its headquarters in West Sussex, UK. Its flexible and solution-led approach has earned the company an enviable reputation for outstanding customer service across multiple disciplines, including component supplies, component repairs, lessor support, flight simulation hardware support, consignment stock management and global aircraft logistics.

Jim Scott, Owner, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Artemis Aerospace, said:

"This is an exciting time for Artemis Aerospace as we look to strengthen our existing operations, build our global base of customers and reinforce our already extensive network of MROs, OEMs and aftermarket suppliers. We founded the business with the desire to do things differently. This means we offer more than replacement parts. Instead, we proactively problem solve on behalf of our customers and provide them with a range of realistic options so they can make informed choices about the best and most appropriate solution."

"We are delighted to be looking to the future with the launch of our new website and video, which underpins our commitment to continue delivering unrivalled customer service, exceptional support and outstanding solutions."

To find out more about Artemis Aerospace, visit https://www.artemisaerospace.com/.

Artemis Aerospace offers an innovative approach to component solutions for the aviation sector. Established in 1999, the company has earned a reputation for outstanding customer service by solving problems and providing a range of realistic options that offer customers the flexibility and freedom to choose a solution that suits their timescale and budget. Its services include component supplies, component repairs, lessor support, flight simulation hardware support, consignment stock management and global aircraft logistics.

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With decades of expertise in global aviation logistics, the expert team works with trusted MROs, OEMs, and aftermarket suppliers around the world to offer 24/7 support to its global customer base.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1739852/Artemis_Aerospace_Jim_Scott.jpg

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/artemis-aerospace-looks-to-the-future-with-brand-new-website-301475060.html

SOURCE Artemis Aerospace
Ghaziabad: Ahead of Uttar Pradesh Polls 2022, AIMIM chief and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi got a scare as his car was allegedly fired upon in Hapur, while he was returning to Delhi after attending election-related events in western Uttar Pradesh.

Owaisi's vehicle was near the Chhijarsi toll plaza on the Hapur-Ghaziabad stretch of the National Highway 24 when the incident took place at around 6 pm, he said. No one was injured in the incident, Owaisi said.

The Hapur Police said one person involved in the firing has been arrested while multiple teams are investigating the case. "Some time ago my car was fired at, near Chhijarsi toll gate. Four rounds of shots were fired. There were 3-4 people, all of them ran away and left the weapons there. My car got punctured, but I moved to another car and left. We are all safe. Alhamdu'lilah," Owaisi tweeted in Hindi.

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president and Hyderabad MP said he had left Delhi in the morning for election-related programmes in Meerut and Kithore, where he held a foot march at 3.30 pm. Owaisi's convoy had four cars, he said.

"We were at the toll gate and had slowed down when we suddenly heard three-to-four rounds of gunshots. My car also got some dents and a tyre got punctured," he later told reporters. "I urge the EC to ensure an independent probe into the incident. It must be known who is behind this incident. It's also an appeal to the Modi government and the Yogi government," he added.

A CCTV footage accessed by Zee News shows a guy in a red hoodie shooting at the car in the beginning, but he is reportedly not yet arrested. Then the footage shows a man in a white jacket firing at the car and this was the guy who has been allegedly arrested. A pistol was reportedly confiscated from him.

(Above) A collage of an image shared on Zee News. (Left) CCTV footage of Owaisi's car; (right) the psitol which was allegedly used to shoot at Owaisi's car.

Hapur Superintendent of Police Deepak Bhuker said one accused involved in the episode has been arrested and police are confirming the details of others and their motive. "We are also finding out how they planned this (shooting). Since the incident took place at the toll plaza, we are also checking the CCTV footage available there. Police teams have been deployed and very soon others involved in the episode will also be held," he told reporters.

The officer said the investigation was at the preliminary stage and other facts and details would be shared as and when available. Meanwhile, senior district officials, including those from the administration and the police, reached the incident site, where several activists and supporters of the AIMIM had started gathering after the shootout.

ADG Prashant Kumar in Lucknow said the local police had got into action as soon as the AIMIM chief had tweeted about the incident. "Some people were detained from the incident spot by the police. Video footages were also secured. It appeared that two people had opened fire and of them has been arrested. He has been identified as Sachin, a resident of Badalpur area of Gautam Buddh Nagar district. An illegal pistol has also been seized from him," Kumar said.

He said the police are gathering information regarding who else was involved along with Sachin and efforts are on to unveil the episode and the motive behind it. "What's satisfactory is that the police responded quickly and one person has been held and video footage ascertains his involvement in the episode. Search is on for his associate. The Meerut IG is at the spot," the senior officer said.

Deepak Bhuker said the investigation was at the preliminary stage and other facts and details would be shared as and when available.

Meanwhile, senior district officials, including those from the administration and the police, reached the incident site, where several activists and supporters of the AIMIM had started gathering after the shootout. AIMIM leader Imtiaz Jaleel took to social media and tweeted that all "AIMIM units across the country will be registering a peaceful protest on Friday and will be submitting memorandum to respective DMs/Commissioners, seeking a thorough investigation into attacks on Owaisi."

All AIMIM units across the country will be registering a peaceful protest on Friday and will be submitting memorandum to respective DMs/Commissioners seeking thorough investigation into attacks on Asad Owaisi. Also seeking highest security at his public meetings in UP.  Imtiaz Jaleel (@imtiaz_jaleel) February 3, 2022



Elections are scheduled for February 10 in 58 assembly constituencies across 11 districts of western Uttar Pradesh, where polls will be held in seven phases.

(With PTI inputs)

Live TV
Srinagar, Feb 3 : The Jammu and Kashmir police along with Army has arrested a hybrid terrorist from North Kashmir's Bandipore district, officials said here on Thursday.

He has been identified as Shabir Ahmad, a resident of Hajin. He was associated with terrorist outfit TRF. Sources said he was working on the direction of his handlers across the border and was assigned the task of reviving local militancy in the Bandipore district.

Police have registered a case and investigations have been initiated.

"Bandipora police along with security forces arrested one Hybrid terrorist of TRF outfit in Hajin, namely Shabir Ahamd Dar R/o Chandergeer Hajin. Arms and Ammunition recovered from his possession. Case FIR registered. Further investigation taken up," police said.
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When the Taliban recaptured Afghanistan last year one of its first pledges was to clean up the country's drug problem - never mind that they spent years profiting off the very same opium people are now addicted to.

Six months on from the take-over and the Taliban is keeping its promise, after a fashion: By rounding up thousands of homeless drug addicts and locking them in hospitals reminiscent of concentration camps for three months while they detox, cold turkey.

A look inside one such 'hospital', in Kabul, reveals inmates wasting away in horrifying conditions: Crammed in three-to-a -bed with little or no food, forced to eat grass to stave off hunger pains - amid rumours they have resorted to eating cats and even cannibalism in order to survive.

Speaking to Danish journalists last month, one recovering addict told them: 'They killed a man and made a fire. They took his intestines and ate them.'

Another inmate, who gave his name as Abdul, said it is common for 'patients' to go days without food and that people routinely drop dead from hunger.

Drug addicts are seen inside a 'clinic' in Kabul, where they are locked up for three months while they detox cold turkey with little medical care and almost no food to sustain them

The recovering addicts say food is so scarce that some of them go days at a time without eating, forced to pull up and eat grass from the yard to fill their stomachs and stave off hunger pangs

The Kabul clinic was built to house 1,000 people, but is currently being used to house 3,000 who are forced to sleep three to a bed - with the Taliban bringing more each day

Inmates are seen in the corridor of a drug 'clinic' in Kabul that those who have visited it say is more like a concentration camp

The Taliban pledged to wipe out Afghanistan's drug problem when it took power last year, but with little money has resorted to simply locking addicts up in hospitals that resemble prisons

Drug addicts are seen at Ibn Sina Medical Hospital for Drug Treatment in Kabul, where they are locked up for three months and left to detox with limited medical assistance

'People ate cats out in the park yesterday. One cut off the cat's head and ate it,' he told Danmarks Radio, the country's public broadcaster, when reporters visited on January 16.

Afghanistan has long been the world's largest supplier of illicit opium and heroin, producing more than 80 per cent of supplies with the peak year being in 2017 when the country produced $1.4bn-worth, the UN reports.

Taxes from opium profits and direct exporting has been a mainstay of how the Taliban finances itself. Aside from a brief crackdown in 2001 when the group first took power, the trade has steadily grown since 1999.

U.N. officials say the Taliban likely earned more than $400million between 2018 and 2019 from the drug trade. A May 2021 Special Inspector General for Afghanistan report quoted a US official as estimating they derive up to 60 per cent of their annual revenue from illicit narcotics.

With almost all international aid now withdrawn and the country's economy in free-fall, analysts say that is not expected to change any time soon.

'The Taliban have counted on the Afghan opium trade as one of their main sources of income,' Cesar Gudes, the head of the Kabul office of the U.N. Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC), told Reuters.

'More production brings drugs with a cheaper and more attractive price, and therefore a wider accessibility.'

That accessibility has meant millions of Afghans have become addicts. A 2015 survey carried out in-part by the Afghan government found that between 2.5million and 3.5million suffered directly or indirectly from addiction.

Eager to please a new global audience after taking power in August last year, the Taliban promised to end the scourge of addiction plaguing the country.

But, with almost no economic means at its disposal to achieve that goal, it has resorted to locking addicts in prison-like hospitals to detox.

Addicts go up the stairs to their dormitory after been detained by the Taliban at the Avicenna Medical Hospital in Kabul

Inmates have their heads shaved on arrival at the treatment centre, and are also provided with overalls to wear

An arriving drug addict has his head shaved by staff at a hospital in Kabul where he is imprisoned while he detoxes

Afghanistan is the world's largest producer of illicit opium and, while statistics are hard to come by, it is estimated that more than 3million of its population may be addicts (pictured, addicts have their heads shaved at the 'clinic')

Drug addicts are seen at Avicenna Medical Hospital for Drug Treatment in Kabul, Afghanistan

A man looks through bars blocking a stairwell at a drug treatment 'clinic' in Kabul, Afghanistan

The one in Kabul visited by DR had beds for 1,000 people, but was housing 3,000 - with more being brought in roundups of drug users by Taliban guards. They are forced to sleep three to a bed, on narrow bunks.

Inmates said some addicts were executed before even getting to hospital, with one claiming that nine of his friends were put to death in jail before the rest were locked in the clinic.

Food has been scarce for months, but are getting scarcer. Abdul said doctors used to provide inmates with half a loaf of bread each day, but now they don't even get that.

Rations are now so scarce, only some of the inmates are allowed to eat each day - lined up in a bare room before being handed a small bowl of rice.

Those who cannot eat go outside to pull up and munch on grass. It does little to keep them alive, but at least staves off the hunger pains which at times are so bad they cannot sleep.

Doctors who run the facility are sympathetic, but can do little. They have not been paid for several months and have no idea when their next payday will be, meaning that helping patients out of their own savings could turn out to be a slow death sentence for their families.

But, confronted with evidence of the horrors, a Taliban spokesman denied anything was amiss. 'These people are sick and do not know what they are saying,' Hasibullah Ahmadi, head of the Taliban's anti-drugs office, says.

A homeless man is seen at a bridge in Kabul where drug addicts are known to gather, amid a Taliban crackdown

A Taliban member detaining a drug addict under a bridge where hundreds of addicted people gather in Kabul

For years, the Taliban has made money from the illicit opium trade with some analysts suggesting they may get the majority of their funds from it - but they are now cracking down on drug addicts

Drug users consuming drugs near a bridge where hundreds of addicted people gather in Kabul

A drug user smokes a substance believed to be opium under a bridge in Kabul where addicts are known to gather

Afghanistan is in the midst of an economic collapse brought about by the sudden departure of US troops last year and the total collapse of the government within a matter of days.

Though the Taliban had been dreaming for years of retaking control of the country, the sudden take-over took them by surprise - leading to chaos which, months later, shows little sign of improving.

Around half of the country's population is now thought to require some kind of food aid, with help thin on the ground. Western nations are trying to agree multi-billion dollar support packages - but face the difficulty of getting money into the country without it being pilfered by its new Islamist rulers.

In the meantime, those on the ground report huge increases in malnutrition and associated illnesses, such as pneumonia - especially in children.

One doctor who works with Save the Children said: 'The number of patients coming to our clinics has shot up by two or three times in recent months. They have nowhere else to go.

'Sometimes there are hundreds of mothers and children waiting when we arrive. They just can't afford the food and heat they need to stay healthy. Malnutrition and pneumonia are a deadly combination.

'Every day we send several children straight to hospital for oxygen and emergency treatment. Recently, a baby didn't survive. I called his mother to check up on him and she said he had passed away. It is the worst feeling imaginable.

'Often we can't treat everyone, we are overwhelmed. There are so many more sick families out there. I lie awake at night thinking of the children we can't reach.'
Bethany Uhler Thompson didnt know what to expect when she decided to start a youth string orchestra at Chatham Youth Development Center.

She was inspired by her uncle, who was incarcerated and had confided in her how isolating being in prison could be. Thompson used to perform with her cello in a juvenile detention center when she was younger, but she wanted to get incarcerated people involved in the community of music makers.

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Thats how Chatham Strings was born.

For about two years, Chatham Strings, an orchestra made up of donated violins, cellos and one viola helped incarcerated children explore creativity, teamwork and accomplishment. COVID-19 stalled the program in 2020, and then Thompson graduated from her program and moved to California.

She hopes, however, that the impact has remained.

Theres potential benefits to music involvement, Thompson said, like recovering from traumatic experiences in life, fostering a positive experience with learning and new experiences, education, and also developing interpersonal skills that are so essential to life.

The results of Chatham Strings, which Thompson explored in her dissertation for a doctor of musical arts degree at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, are all anecdotal and correlatory, Thompson said. But some children said being involved in the program helped them try new experiences  even if they were told they were never going to succeed.

They were discouraged from learning new things, that was part of their past, Thompson said, When they were given the opportunity to try something new, and they started enjoying it, and noticing a bit of success, they started saying, Oh, why am I limiting myself?

Maybe success on the cello could transfer to success in beautician school, or math class, Thompson said.

Transformation through music

Chatham Strings was one look into the transformational powers of music, which studies suggest improve cognitive skills, health and well-being.

Story continues

Just 40 miles away from Chatham Youth Development Center, Durham-based Kidznotes has boasted that participants in its out-of-school music program for students in lower-income areas have higher school attendance rates and improved academic performance. The program is based on the El Sistema model originally launched in Venezuela for children in impoverished neighborhoods to learn music.

More important than test scores, though, is the joy of music, said Shana Tucker, Kidznotes executive director.

It is not something that stays, Tucker said. But it is something that hopefully we all experienced  at least once in our lives, at least once a week, once a day  but youve got to know what it is and recognize it when it comes because it dissipates.

Tucker has spoken with countless parents who no longer play an instrument, but they cant forget the first time they held one, how special it was.

Thompson recalled a similar reverence from the children in Chatham Strings, who, even in the midst of an argument with other students, set aside their instruments.

But is music special? What makes it different from other activities?

Nothing magical

According to Donald Hodges, professor emeritus at UNCG, there is something unique, but nothing magical about music.

The elements of all the bits and pieces probably can be found in other things as well, for different children, different individuals, Hodges said,

Playing music can activate different parts of the brain, Hodges said. For example, when you play a violin, your right hand, which controls the bow, controls the rhythm, while your left hand, which presses the notes on the strings, controls the melody.

After doing that activity over and over again, it creates a permanent imprint on the brain.

That kind of coordination can be found in many activities, Hodges noted. He rejects ideas that music has a mystical, uncanny quality, but that doesnt mean there isnt something important and uniquely human about making music.

Societies across the globe incorporate music into their daily lives, albeit in different ways. It is perhaps the human in music that makes it feel so special.

Every musical style, if its your favorite, regardless of what it is, Hodges said, activates the part of the brain that says Hey, I am a human being and this is how I feel about my humanity.

In recent years, research made possible through new imaging techniques that can show what the brain is doing in real-time has shown that music definitely has some neurological benefit. Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center researcher John Burdette found in a 2014 study that just listening to ones favorite music changed the connections between auditory brain areas and the hippocampus, a part of the brain thats responsible for memory and social emotional consolidation.

Other research has explored how people with dementia are able to recall music lyrics, despite profound memory loss, and a recent study found that people who started music training when young had stronger structural connections in the auditory regions of their brains.

Healing through music

Thompson taught her students how to compose music in addition to playing, allowing them to further express themselves.

Incarcerated children are more likely to have exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), defined as potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The research shows that even as children accumulate such ACEs as the incarceration or loss of a parent, witnessing violence or having a close relative with mental illness, it puts them at higher risk of poor educational attainment, substance use and even physical health problems such as cancer in adulthood.

It can be hard for traumatized people to open up, Hodges said. Music can help.

One student in Chatham Strings composed a piece about the loss of a parent. The orchestra performed that piece, Motherly Love.

Encouraging reliability and reliance on others

Playing music and being part of an ensemble involves coordination and teamwork, but it also requires expression  as an individual and as a group.

Everybody plays an important role, Hodges said. Not everybody can play first as well. So its a tricky balance.

Tucker said her organization, Kidznotes, works to create a community through music.

The dynamics of orchestra works is very similar to how you create an intentional community outside of the program, she said.

Members of an orchestra support each other the same way they might support their neighbors or family members outside the orchestra. Just like in life, orchestra is more than just playing your part, she said.

In Chatham Strings, Thompson said students quickly realized that if one person missed class, they wouldnt sound as good. Students then felt a responsibility not only to themselves or Thompson, but to the group itself.

Theres a sense of responsibility, Thompson said. Of course, did that make them always make the right decisions? No. Does it do for any of us? But it had impact on them wanting to be responsible and be a part.

The pandemic has affected how both groups feel that community through music.

Kidznotes was forced to go online as schools went online, and for some children that meant attending their group violin lessons from the McDonalds parking lot because that was where there was Wi-Fi, Tucker said.

For children in school during COVID, life is hard and unpredictable, Tucker said.

The pandemic changed the way we feel community through music. But music still found a way.

As lockdowns began in countries around the world, videos of people playing trumpet or singing from their apartments circled around social media.

In the end, it comes down to joy.

That joy that music is so apt to bring is still retrievable despite the world. And that joy, that meaningful experience is something that anybody can experience, no matter your age, your cognitive ability or your numbers, Hodges said.

This originally appeared at North Carolina Health News and is published here in partnership with the Solutions Journalism Exchange.

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Britain's Covid wave fell on every front today as daily cases, hospitalisations and deaths all trended downwards  and separate figures suggest infections are finally falling in children.

Government dashboard data shows there were another 88,171 infections over the last 24 hours, a fall of nine per cent compared to last Thursday.

Today's infections also include two days worth of Scottish cases due to a technical error earlier in the week, which means the true drop-off in cases today is likely to have been lower.

Another 303 deaths were also recorded, marking a 10 per cent dip on the previous week. Latest hospital data shows there were 1,386 admissions on January 30, down 16.4 per cent in a week.

Meanwhile, separate data from the UK Health Security Agency shows that cases have started to fall in primary school children in England for the first time since Christmas.

Cases had been increasing rapidly in the mostly unvaccinated age group aged five to nine since the start of the year because of the return to school, driving a plateau in the overall fall in cases in Britain.

Infections ticked downwards in older people as well, easing fears surges in younger generations may tick over to the most vulnerable in society.

UK Health Security Agency data showed Covid cases are now ticking down in every age group and falling among five to nine-year-olds (blue line) for the first time since Christmas

 Slide me  Positive tests fell in 87 per cent of England's local authorities during the week, with all but 19 of the 149 seeing a drop-off in infections

Britain FINALLY approves Novavax Covid vaccine Novavax's Covid vaccine has become the fifth jab to be approved in Britain after it was finally given the green light by regulators today. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said the vaccine met the required safety, quality and effectiveness standards. Britain has 60million doses on order and they are being manufactured in Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham. It is unclear how, or when, the vaccine will be deployed, with the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation set to offer a recommendation in the coming weeks. Novavax's vaccine was found to be more than 90 per cent effective in a US trial against old variants, including Delta, in June. But the vaccine has not yet been properly tested against Omicron in real-world studies. Known scientifically as NVX-CoV2373, the jab is the first approved Covid vaccine to use traditional protein-based vaccine technology in the West. The European Medicines Agency gave it the all clear in December and is already being used in Australia. Advertisement

In other Covid news:

Britain's medical regulator today approved the Novavax Covid jab for use in the country. Ministers say it could be added to future roll outs;

Former SAGE adviser Sir Jeremy Farrar called for better Covid vaccines that could stop people spreading the virus, but said the current crop of jabs 'must be celebrated';

Statistics suggest one in 50 Britons may now be suffering from long Covid, with experts warning the effect of the Omicron wave is still unknown;

NHS Nightingale surge hubs set up to fight Omicron cost 10.6million, ministers have revealed, but have treated just seven patients.

The daily figures are in stark contrast to another study from King's College London which suggested Britain's Omicron wave has bounced back.

The symptom-tracking study estimated nearly 200,000 people were catching the virus every day last week, up 22 per cent from the previous seven-day spell.

Professor Tim Spector, a top epidemiologist who leads the study, warned Britain may be 'preempting the end of the pandemic' and said infections will likely remain at high levels until the return of warm weather in the spring.

But even with these high levels the rates of severe disease are continuing to head downwards, with analysis suggesting Covid's case-fatality rate is now only slightly above that of the flu.

No10 has already ditched 'Plan B' restrictions amid the promising statistics and health bosses are expected to stop publishing daily Covid data on the Government dashboard in April.

NHS Nightingale surge hubs set up to fight Omicron wave cost 10.6million and have treated just SEVEN patients NHS Nightingale surge hubs set up to cope with Omicron cost 10.6million to build and have only treated seven patients, it was revealed today. The NHS rapidly constructed eight overflow units at the height of the fourth wave in December as Boris Johnson put the health service on a 'war footing' against Covid. They have been designed to hold up to 100 coronavirus patients each and have been assembled in the car parks of major hospitals in England But the temporary structures have mostly stood empty, with some staff complaining they are taking up valuable parking spaces. Health minister Edward Argar has revealed for the first time that the hubs cost 10,672,088 to build. And only one has actually seen any patients  at the Royal Preston Hospital in Lancashire, The Telegraph reports. It had treated just seven patients by last Friday, meaning the NHS has spent the equivalent of 1.5million per patient. Professor Karol Sikora, a cancer expert at Buckingham University, today blasted the units as an abuse of taxpayers money and a complete waste of time. He told MailOnline the money could be better spent in other areas that have missed out during the pandemic like cancer or tackling the record-breaking backlog. What is needed in the NHS is to build up capacity and the staff, he said. The key to healthcare is staff and trained staff.' Advertisement

The legal requirement to self-isolate for people infected with Covid is also expected to go in April and free lateral flow tests will be ditched in July under plans to shift to living with the virus.

All UK nations reported Covid cases today, and latest testing numbers show a similar number of virus swabs are being carried out compared to last week.

But the PCR positivity rate  the proportion of tests that pick up the virus  has flatlined in England since late January, suggesting the fall in cases may now be slowing.

Across the UK, England today had the sharpest drop in daily cases (down 10 per cent), followed by Wales (down 19 per cent). Scotland and Northern Ireland both reported a similar number of cases to last week.

The UKHSA's weekly report  covering the week to January 30  today found cases had fallen in children for the first time since Christmas.

A total of 1,925 cases per 100,000 people aged five to nine were recorded in England, down week-on-week from an all time high of 2,709 in the previous seven-day spell.

The rate among under-fives has also dropped, from a record 874.2 to 526.0.

It suggests the surge in cases among children in England following the school holidays might have come to a halt.

But case rates for both age groups remain higher than they were before the festive period.

Rates have fallen for all other ages, including for people aged 80 and over, where the level has dropped week-on-week from 393.2 cases per 100,000 to 340.6.

Every region of England also recorded a fall in infection rates, although they remained high across the board.

The South East had the highest rate (1,199 cases per 100,000 people), while the North West had the lowest (745).

The rate of Covid hospital admissions in England stood at 15.4 per 100,000 people last week, down from 16.7.

The highest admission rates continue to be for those aged 85 and over, at 128.6 per 100,000, down from 133.8.

In a separate study, King's College London scientists today estimated there were 195,000 people with symptomatic Covid every day as of January 31 which was up on the 159,000 recorded the week before.

Their estimates are different from the daily Covid numbers, which have daily cases hovering at around 90,000 at the moment.

The increase in symptomatic cases is now being seen in all age groups, although the rise was less steep in over-55s and slowest in the most vulnerable over-75 group. It means it is no longer just unvaccinated primary school children driving the rise  although under-18s still make up more than 80,000 daily cases.

Professor Tim Spector, the epidemiologist behind the study, warned it is 'much too early' to call the end of the pandemic, with infections expected to stay at high levels until warm weather returns in spring.

But he added it was 'encouraging' that hospitalisations and deaths are still coming down because of Omicron's lack of severity.

King College London scientists estimate there were 195,000 people with symptomatic every day as of January 31, up 22 per cent on the 159,000 recorded the week before

The increase in cases is now being seen in all age groups, although the rise was less in over-55s and slowest in the most vulnerable over-75 group (purple). Previously, increases had been primarily caused by infections in children (blue), who still make up more than 80,000 daily cases

Regionally, cases were highest in the East of England (17,801), East Midlands (13,447) and South East (10,936). They were lowest in the North East (1,204) and West Midlands (2,991). Graph shows: Case rates in regions across the UK

An Office for National Statistics (ONS) report estimated 1.33million adults were suffering symptoms of long Covid as of January 2. The graph above shows the change in long-Covid prevalence during the pandemic but gives the rate in thousands

Professor Spector said: 'While the bad news is we are again approaching 200,000 new cases a day, it's encouraging that recorded hospitalisations, ICU cases and deaths are still coming down as Omicron is less severe in a vaccinated population.

'With a lag of several weeks between infections and hospitalisations, we'll continue to monitor this rate closely in the coming weeks.

'We saw a similar rebound and second peak during the Delta wave as people relaxed more and children went back to school. It seems many are, again, preempting the end of the Covid pandemic. It's much too early for this.

Ex-senior SAGE scientist says we need vaccines that stop people spreading Covid to truly end pandemic A former top Government scientific adviser today said the world needs vaccines that are better at stopping Covid transmission to truly end the pandemic. Sir Jeremy Farrar, a former SAGE member, said the current jabs 'must be celebrated' for severing the link between cases and hospitalisations and deaths. But he warned they were not the 'long-term solution' to Covid because the shots are becoming increasingly weaker at preventing infections with each new variant. The Wellcome Trust director called for more research to develop jabs capable of giving almost complete immunity  like those for smallpox, measles and rubella. Sir Jeremy  who dramatically quit SAGE last year after a row about lifting mask mandates  admitted it was a 'long shot'. Vaccine manufacturers are already working on jabs that target multiple variants, and a universal jab that targets Covid alongside other seasonal coronaviruses. But there is no guarantee that these jabs will ever make it to production  let alone be able to outright stop infections. Advertisement

'High case rates will likely be with us until late spring before the warmer weather and the summer holidays help reduce infections again.'

The ZOE Covid study is based on reports from around 840,000 weekly contributors who log symptoms after testing positive for the virus  but only 47,000 tests.

Under-18s still have the highest number of Covid cases, although infections are now rising at similar paces in 18- to 34-year-olds (more than 40,000 cases) and 35- to 54-year-olds (around 50,000 cases).

Infections are lowest in over-75s (around 5,000 cases) and 55- to 74-year-olds (around 18,000).

Regionally, cases were highest in the East of England (17,801), East Midlands (13,447) and South East (10,936). They were lowest in the North East (1,204) and West Midlands (2,991).

Professor Spector added: 'Over the past few weeks, the UK government's confirmed cases data has begun to move further away from ZOE's findings. There are a number of reasons for this.

'The biggest factor is the change in testing behaviour that has happened this year. ZOE Contributors are now logging more positive lateral flow tests (LFTs) in the app, and fewer PCRs.

'LFTs no longer have to be confirmed by a PCR so are often not being logged with the government, so confirmed case data is missing thousands of LFT results, leading to massive under-reporting.

'This subtle but important change in behaviour, highlights the importance of having multiple methods to track Covid in the population and shows the power of the citizen scientists that log with ZOE every day.

'The way ZOE collects and analyses the data means our data is always ahead of the other national surveys that are just beginning to show rises.'

The data comes after a separate report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) today showed record one in 50 Brits were living with long Covid at the start of January.

It estimated 1.33million adults were suffering symptoms of the wide-ranging condition as of January 2.

That was up 5 per cent on the 1.26million with long Covid  defined by the ONS as having symptoms for four or more weeks after infection  on December 6.

Fatigue was the most common ailment experience by sufferers, affecting half of people.

The new estimate will only include the very early effects of the Omicron surge in December  because of the time it takes to develop the condition.

There are concerns that long Covid prevalence could rise sharply after record numbers of people caught the disease this winter.

However, it is not yet known how the mild variant's decreased severity could impact long Covid.

Statisticians also estimated 554,000 were still suffering a year after catching the virus  the highest figure on record.

The estimates are based on a survey of 306,000 people who self-reported suffering with long Covid, meaning they were not necessarily diagnosed.

Experts have previously cast doubt over the ONS's long Covid sufferer findings, with some saying they are likely to be an overestimation given symptoms like headaches and fatigue can be linked to a variety of conditions.

So why did the British media largely fail to cover a study that found lockdowns didn't work? MailOnline was one of just three major outlets to report findings of Johns Hopkins-led paper with notable omissions from the BBC, Sky and the Guardian

By Emily Craig Health Reporter for MailOnline

Experts today accused the British media of 'maintaining pandemic fear' by failing to cover a new report which found lockdowns had virtually no impact on Covid deaths in the UK, US and Europe.

A review by three economists from Johns Hopkins University in the US, Lund University in Sweden and the Danish think-tank the Center for Political Studies, found lockdowns only reduced Covid mortality by 0.2 per cent in 2020.

MailOnline was just one of three major British media outlets to cover the findings this week, along with The Daily Telegraph and the online edition of the Daily Express.

It was not picked up by Sky News, the BBC or The Guardian, which have previously been accused of taking a pro-lockdown slant in their Covid coverage. But a number of other national newspapers also failed to cover the report, including The Times and The Sun.

An expert with links to the Government, who wished to remain anonymous, told MailOnline it is unsurprising that some publications avoided the story as they want to 'maintain fear around the pandemic'.

Professor David Livermore, a microbiologist at the University of East Anglia, told MailOnline: 'Almost all the major broadcasters, along with several papers have slavishly followed the "lockdowns work" narrative throughout, generally without objective analysis.

'So I'm disappointed, but unsurprised, that, once again, they are not headlining work  however well conducted  that comes to the contrary conclusion.'

MailOnline has approached Sky, the BBC and The Guardian for comment.

Professor Keith Willison, a chemical biologist at Imperial College London, told this website that he was not surprised it was not widely covered because criticisms of lockdown have been 'ignored' during the pandemic.

He added that the report was done by 'highly reputable' economists and added value to the debate around the use of draconian restrictions early in the Covid crisis.

Critics of the new lockdown report  which was published on Wednesday and has not been peer-reviewed  accused the working paper of being biased.

The meta-analysis was led by Steve Hanke, a founder of the Johns Hopkins School of Applied Economics, who has been an outspoken critic of economically-damaging restrictions throughout the pandemic. He previously described jab mandates as 'fascist'.

One of its other authors  Professor Lars Jonung, from Lund  hails from Sweden, the only major country in Europe to go with a voluntary lockdown rather than a legally-binding one.

There are also questions about the methods used in the paper. Only 24 studies were included in the review and some were discarded for seemingly trivial reasons, which led to accusations the authors 'cherry-picked' studies.

Professor Robert Dingwall, a sociologist and former Government Covid adviser, admitted the report has its shortcomings, adding that it was not 'conclusive evidence that lockdowns were a bad policy'.

But Professor Paul McKeigue, an epidemiology at Edinburgh University, said it was no less reliable than 'rather dubious' scientific modelling from the Government's own scientists  which heavily influenced policy.

A new report led by a Johns Hopkins University economist found that overall, lockdowns reduced Covid mortality in the US and Europe  including Britain - by just 0.2 per cent. Looking at stay-at-home orders directly, they were slightly more effective at 2.9 per cent. closing nonessential shops was the most effective intervention, leading to a 10.6 per cent drop in virus fatalities. The report, which has not been peer-reviewed, said that this was probably due to shutting pubs and restaurants where alcohol is consumed. School closures were linked to a smaller 4.4 per cent decrease

Above shows the top 10 countries with the highest Covid death rates, followed by the US, UK Canada, Australia and New Zealand for comparison

Daily Covid deaths in some of the West's major economies: the United States, Britain, Canada, Australia, France and Germany

The UK and US have recorded some of the highest cumulative Covid death tolls in the world despite numerous lockdowns. Australia, which sealed off its borders for nearly two years, has started to see an uptick now but avoided major losses earlier in the pandemic

A review by three economists from Johns Hopkins University in the US, Lund University in Sweden (Professor Lars Jonung, left) and the Danish think-tank the Center for Political Studies (Jonas Herby, right), found lockdowns only reduced Covid mortality by 0.2 per cent in 2020

The meta-analysis was led by Steve Hanke (pictured), a founder of the Johns Hopkins School of Applied Economics, who has been an outspoken critic of economically-damaging restrictions throughout the pandemic. He previously described jab mandates as 'fascist'

Overall, the working paper found lockdowns cut Covid deaths by 0.2 per cent.

But the stay-at-home order (2.9 per cent), school closures (4.4 per cent) and business closures (10.6 per cent) were individually more effective.

On the paper being omitted from most major news outlets in the UK, Professor Willison told MailOnline: 'I'm not surprised because those of us who argued for softer, voluntary quarantine regulations back in May 2020 were ignored.

'The catastrophic economic and societal damage from the harsh lockdown regime is even harder to bear if it transpires that lockdown measures had minimal effects on reducing transmission of the virus in the UK too.

'The Swedish policy was correct in that it allowed the public to moderate their behaviours while still keeping schools and communities functional. I bet Downing Street is now regretting passing new laws to regulate all our lives over the past two years.'

Professor McKeigue, an expert in genetic epidemiology and statistical genetics, told MailOnline that the report's findings were 'too definitive'. But he agreed there was 'no evidence that lockdowns did any good'.

He said lockdowns may have increased mortality, such as by sending students home to live with vulnerable parents and stopping elderly people from exercising.

The UK has been sent into lockdown three times throughout the pandemic. Some scientists unsuccessfully called for additional lockdowns during the Delta and Omicron waves.

However, Sweden's strategy to contain the virus relied on the public voluntarily working from home and avoiding public transport, as well some light mandatory restrictions including table service in hospitality and limiting gatherings to 50 people.

Revealed: How Covid lockdowns have ravaged the economies of Britain and the US - sending inflation to its highest level in 30 YEARS The pandemic has battered the economies of the UK and US, with inflation rates rising to their highest level for decades. Lockdowns pushed consumer spending to its lowest levels, while border closures and staff shortages choked supply runs. Meanwhile, furlough schemes and the procurement of PPE and vaccines saw unprecedented public spending. And new mutations could prolong the financial hardship, with economists downgrading their forecasts for the first quarter of 2022 after the emergence of Omicron. UK Inflation soared to a 30-year high in the UK this year, hitting 5.4 per cent  the highest figure recorded since 1992. The Office for National Statistics said the current rate is influenced by the pandemic, which saw retail sales, goods exports and monthly GDP drop by around a fifth at the start of the crisis. Covid also sent UK borrowing to its highest level since records began, with the Government plunging another 299billion into debt in the first year of the pandemic. Experts believe No10 will borrow less in the 12 months to April 2022, but the figure could still exceed 200billion. And ministers are proceeding with a national insurance hike, which will see the average Briton paying an extra 214 per year, in part to deal with the Covid-fuelled NHS backlog. Ministers also wasted 8.7billion of taxpayers' money on unusable personal protective equipment (PPE) which was not up to standard. A total of 12.1billion was spent on PPE in the first year of the pandemic alone. And the UK spent billions ordering 540million doses of eight different Covid vaccines. While the Prime Minister pledged to donate 100million jabs, hundreds of million of jabs are still left over. US Inflation spiked to 7 per cent in the US in December, marking the seventh month in a row that the figure has soared above 5 per cent. Covid-related supply problems, that continue to impact the price of goods, are partly behind the rise. National debt skyrocketed to $31.3trillion after huge sums were borrowed during the pandemic  four years earlier than expected. And GDP fell at the quickest rate seen in 70 years when lockdown restrictions were implemented in 2020. The US sought $5trillion to combat the pandemic to support the unemployed and small businesses and issue stimulus cheques worth thousands of dollars to Americans. Advertisement

Despite the more relaxed approach, the country has recorded less cumulative Covid deaths than the UK, 1,5791 fatalities per million people, compared to the UK's 2,302 per million people.

But it has recorded more than all of its Scandinavian neighbours, which critics say is a sign it is not the perfect poster child for looser measures.

Professor Dingwall said the Swedish approach may not have worked well in all countries, but may have led to comparable hospitalisation and death rates in the UK 'with much less collateral damage'.

Professor Dingwall added: 'What is really troubling is the lack of interest by governments in properly evaluating these drastic social interventions, in comparison with the investments in research on vaccines and drugs.

'We should not be debating attempts to make sense of poor-quality data but considering well-designed studies carried out alongside the lockdowns.

'The public inquiry will need to ask why such work was not commissioned.'

Professor Dingwall noted that the new report was vulnerable to accusations of 'cherry picking' and is limited in that it brings together different restrictions imposed in different places at different times.

To come to their findings, the US, Swedish and Danish whittled down 18,590 global studies on lockdown and lockdown restrictions to 117.

The criteria for the studies to be eligible were they must measure the effect of lockdown on mortality and use an 'empirical approach'  meaning to use real-world data.

These were then boiled down to just 34 papers, with the others discarded for various reasons, including being duplicates or those which were written by student papers rather than fully qualified experts.

Reasons for excluding others were vague, however, with nine papers left out because they had 'too few observations' and nine more because they 'only looked at timing'.

At least two studies  one in the UK  that found clear drops in Covid deaths by comparing the rate directly before and after a lockdown were left out because the researchers claimed they may have been biased by 'time-dependent factors' such as seasonality.

A popular paper which claimed 3million lives in Europe had been saved due to the spring 2020 lockdowns was also excluded  because it relied on modelling.

Crucially, the researchers also left out studies which looked at early lockdowns in countries which managed to suppress Covid and record extremely low death rates during the pandemic through incredibly strict lockdowns and border controls  such as China, Australia and New Zealand.

Noting this limitation, the authors write: 'One objection to our conclusions may be that we do not look at the role of timing. If timing is very important, differences in timing may empirically overrule any differences in lockdowns.'

They add: 'Including these studies will greatly overestimate the effect of lockdowns, and, hence, we chose not to include studies focusing on timing of lockdowns in our review.'

For reasons that are not made clear, only 24 of the 34 studies were actually carried through for the final analysis. The fact-checking website Truth Or Fiction criticised the latest paper for selecting papers that suited the authors' own opinions.

Overall, the study found restrictions cut Covid fatalities by just 0.2 per cent. Border closures were one of the least effective measures, reducing the death toll by 0.1 per cent.

Ordering non-essential shops to close proved the most impactful rule, leading to 10.6 per cent fewer fatalities. School closures cut the death rate by just 4.4 per cent and asking people to stay at home reduced the fatality toll by 2.9 per cent.

And some curbs, such as those limiting how much time people spend outdoors, may have led to more deaths, the team warned.

However, some experts criticised the paper for excluding studies that show drops in Covid deaths after lockdown measures were introduced, excluding countries that implemented early lockdowns and managed to suppress the death toll to very low levels, such as China, Australia and New Zealand.
India is emerging as one of the worlds fastest-growing markets for cryptocurrency trading with user base of estimated two million. As stated by finance minister in her budget speech, RBI is expected to create a Central Bank (CBDC), on the lines of Chinas Central Bank.
Boris Johnson has backed continuing to use real bearskin to make the iconic hats worn by the Queen's Guard.

Animal rights campaigners, including the PETA UK group, have long pushed for the Ministry of Defence to switch to using man-made material instead of the pelts of Canadian black bears.

But the MOD announced in December last year that faux fur did not meet its performance requirements and real fur would continue to be used.

A leaked email, obtained by LBC Radio, showed Mr Johnson was grilled by one of his Uxbridge constituents on the matter.

The PM said 'the man-made fur did not meet the standards required' but insisted 'all these matters are kept under review'.

The decision to stick with the real fur is unlikely to have been well received by Mr Johnson's wife, Carrie, who is a passionate environmentalist and has campaigned to end trophy hunting.

Animal rights campaigners, including the PETA UK group, have long pushed for the Ministry of Defence to switch to using man-made material for the hats instead of the pelts of Canadian black bears

Boris Johnson has backed continuing to use real bearskin to make the iconic hats worn by the Queen's Guard

PETA UK named Mrs Johnson as its 'Person of the Year' in 2020, describing her as a 'fearless force for good when it comes to making the world a kinder place for animals'.

Mrs Johnson tweeted in 2019: 'There is no excuse for trophy hunting. Ive heard all sorts of attempts to defend it on tenuous conservation grounds. Thats rubbish.'

The email published by LBC Radio showed Mr Johnson had been contacted by a constituent who requested a meeting to discuss the Queens Guards use of bearskin for their ceremonial caps.

The response from Mr Johnson, sent in December 2021, said: As you may be aware, the Ministry of Defence recently conducted tests on a fake fur fabric commissioned by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) as a potential alternative to the existing bear pelts used to make the Queens Guards ceremonial caps.

This material was assessed against five requirements and, as I understand it, while it met the basic standard for water absorption, it showed unacceptable rates of water shedding and performed poorly on visual assessment.

Sadly, as the man-made fur did not meet the standards required for a ceremonial cap which is worn throughout the year and in all weathers, the Ministry of Defence has no plans at present to take this man-made fabric forward. However, all these matters are kept under review.

PETA UK has argued there is 'no reason the MoD shouldnt switch to the new animal-friendly equivalent'.

The MOD said in December last year that it will continue to use real bearskin for the hats.

PETA UK named Mrs Johnson as its 'Person of the Year' in 2020, describing her as a 'fearless force for good when it comes to making the world a kinder place for animals'

Tourists visiting London flock to see the Guards in their traditional hats, which have been worn since the 1815 defeat of Napoleon.

The ceremonial headdress can only be worn by foot soldiers in certain regiments, including the Grenadier Guards, the Coldstream Guards, the Scots Guards, the Irish Guards and the Welsh Guards.

An Army spokesman said last December that the 'Guards bearskins are sourced from the by-product of a necessary cull of black bears in Canada'.

The spokesman said: 'The bearskins worn by the Guards are part of our proud military history and identity. There are no suitable alternatives.'

But PETA UK said it had found 'no evidence of any Canadian province running  or having previously run  any official black bear culling programmes'.
Lousiana Governor John Bel Edwards pauses while speaking at a press conference at the State Capitol, discussing what he knew about the death of Black motorist Ronald Greene, and when, Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022. After meeting with Black legislators, Gov. John Bel Edwards said Tuesday he hasn't done anything to prevent justice from being served, and was informed of an incident involving State Police almost immediately after it happened on May 10, as is the usual protocol. He didn't see the video of State Police troopers beating Ronald Greene until months later, he said.
Lucknow: This is an interesting development ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls that starts on February 10. In a significant development, Akhilesh Yadav is visiting Noida today (February 3) evening. This will be his Noida visit after a long gap of 11 years. Now the big question is whether Akhilesh's visit to Noida for the poll campaign will prove to be a masterstroke.

Earlier on Thursday, speaking to ANI in Bulandshahr, the SP chief said, "There is another saying related to Noida is that if a party goes for the campaign in Noida then it wins the Uttar Pradesh elections. Last time, I visited Noida in 2011 and then formed the government in 2012." Akhilesh said that he is sure that his visit to Noida will also help him in forming the government in 2022.



What is the 'Noida jinx' all about?

'Noida jinx' is an old political taboo in Uttar Pradesh politics, according to which, if a sitting chief minister visits Noida, then he cannot hold power for long and will not be in power for another consecutive term. However, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has broken the taboo and tends to visit Noida continuously after forming the government in 2017.

Yogi Adityanath, during the poll campaign in Noida for the upcoming elections earlier this month, had said that, unlike the previous governments, he was constantly visiting Noida and doing development work. He had said that he is sure that people will support and give their mandate to BJP. "Noida jinx" came into existence in Uttar Pradesh politics since the time of Vir Bahadur Singh as he lost the election after Noida visit. Further, ND Tiwari, Kalyan Singh and Mayawati's government also lost after their Noida visit. It is believed that Akhilesh Yadav was too scared of 'Noida jinx' that during the whole tenure of his government he did not visit Noida for a single time and not even held a campaign for the 2017 Assembly polls and 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Noida.

Notably, Akhilesh Yadav did not even visit Noida for the inauguration of development projects during his tenure. The Uttar Pradesh assembly election for the 403 assembly seats would be held in seven phases from February 10 to March 7. The counting of votes will take place on March 10.

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New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Aam Aadmi Party on Thursday alleged that BJP-ruled MCD is looting crores of rupees in the name of issuing licenses for EV Charging Stations despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi having ended the need for such licenses.

"The PM himself has said these charging stations don't need licenses. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal is offering subsidies to them. But the BJP ruled South MCD is asking for licenses to set up charging stations," AAP's Durgesh Pathak said during a press conference on Thursday, adding that the party is asking interested applicants to not just take licenses but also 'meet' their councillors and seek their 'approval' over the matter.

"The quantum of threat posed by pollution is a problem that plagues Delhi every year. We have all seen how Delhi becomes a gas chamber during the period of Diwali due to stubble burning and various other factors. The whole world at this juncture is busy fighting pollution," Pathak said.

Alleging red-tapism and bribery in the party, AAP leader stated that BJP has made a rate card for its bribes against the licenses, if you know a councillor, pay Rs 50 lakh, if you know a senior leader, pay Rs 25-30 lakh, claiming that one victim of this proposal apprised him about the rate card.

"The biggest proponent of modern tech solutions against pollution was the introduction of electric vehicles. Our country is working to adopt the use of EVs and in that vein is investing in charging infrastructure too." "There's a lack of charging stations across the country and that's why the Prime Minister himself encouraged everyone to develop charging stations in their area. The procedure to set up EV charging stations is supposed to be free of bureaucratic hurdles and licenses," he added.
Hyderabad, Feb 3 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate to the nation the 'Statue of Equality' on the outskirts of Hyderabad on February 5.

The 216-feet tall 'Statue of Equality' commemorates the 11th century Bhakti Saint Sri Ramanujacharya, who promoted the idea of equality in all aspects of living including faith, caste and creed.

The statue has come up at Sri Ramanujacharya Ashram at Mucchintal in Rangareddy district on the outskirts of Hyderabad.

The statue is made of 'panchaloha', a combination of five metals: gold, silver, copper, brass, and zinc and is among one of the tallest metallic statues in a sitting position, in the world.

It is mounted on a 54-feet high base building, named 'Bhadra Vedi', has floors devoted to a Vedic digital library and research centre, ancient Indian texts, a theatre, an educational gallery detailing many works of Sri Ramanujacharya. The statue has been conceptualised by Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami of Sri Ramanujacharya Ashram.

During the programme, 3D Presentation Mapping on the life journey and teachings of Sri Ramanujacharya will also be showcased. The Prime Minister will also visit the identical recreations of 108 Divya Desams (ornately carved temples) that surround the statue.

Sri Ramanujacharya worked tirelessly for the upliftment of people with the spirit of every human being equal regardless of nationality, gender, race, caste or creed.

The inauguration of the 'Statue of Equality' is a part of the 12-day Sri Ramanuja Sahasrabdi Samaroham, the ongoing 1000th birth anniversary celebrations of Sri Ramanujacharya.

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Thursday visited the ashram and participated in the samaroham. Speaking on the occasion, he said that the statue gives a message of equal respect to all human beings. "Great Ramanujacharya's preaching was we are all the santan of God. God loves everybody equally. All should be loved equally, treated equally and respected equally," he said.

Before dedicating the statue to the nation on Saturday, the Prime Minister will visit the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) campus at Patancheru near Hyderabad and launch the 50th anniversary celebrations of ICRISAT.

Modi will also inaugurate ICRISAT's Climate Change Research Facility on Plant Protection and ICRISAT's Rapid Generation Advancement Facility. These two facilities are dedicated to the smallholder farmers of Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.

The Prime Minister will also unveil a specially designed logo of ICRISAT and launch a commemorative stamp issued on the occasion.

ICRISAT is an international organisation that conducts agricultural research for development in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. It helps farmers by providing improved crop varieties and hybrids and also helps smallholder farmers in the drylands to fight climate change.
A British official said its government had done its own analysis of the intelligence and had high confidence that Russia was planning to engineer a pretext to blame Ukraine for an attack. Another British official, Liz Truss, the foreign secretary, said the intelligence was clear and shocking evidence of Russias unprovoked aggression and underhand activity to destabilize Ukraine.

The U.K. and our allies will continue to expose Russian subterfuge and propaganda and call it out for what it is, Ms. Truss said in a statement.

The Kremlins spokesman, Dmitri S. Peskov, dismissed the American allegations in comments carried by Russian news agencies. This isnt the first report of its kind, he said. Similar things have been claimed before. But nothing ever came of them.

While it is not clear that senior Russian officials approved the operation, it was far along in the planning and the United States had high confidence that it was under serious consideration, officials said. Russian officials had found corpses to use in the video, discussed actors to play mourners and plotted how to make military equipment appear Ukrainian or NATO-supplied.

While the plan sounded far-fetched, American officials said they believed it could have worked to provide a spark for a Russian military operation  an outcome they said they hoped would be made less likely by exposing the effort publicly.

The highlights of the intelligence have been declassified, in hopes of both derailing the plot and convincing allies of the seriousness of the Russian planning. The officials interviewed for this article requested anonymity to discuss declassified but sensitive intelligence before it was released publicly.
Health Minister Alexandru Rafila is on a visit to Rome on Thursday and Friday, having meetings scheduled at the Superior Institute of Health and the Health Ministry.

On Friday, Alexandru Rafila and his Italian counterpart Roberto Speranza will sign a memorandum of understanding setting out the legal framework for Romania - Italy health cooperation in the coming years, the Health Ministry said.

Also on Friday, the Romanian Health Minister will visit the 'Bambino Gesu' Children's Hospital which belongs to the Holy See and where several Romanian children with oncological diseases are being treated. Rafila will discuss with the management of the health facility, with the parents of the Romanian children hospitalized here and with the young patients themselves, Agerpres.ro informs.

Around 18:00 hrs (Romania time) the Minister will make a press statement at the premises of the Romanian Embassy in Italy, which will be streamed live on the diplomatic mission and the Health Ministry's official Facebook pages.
NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN, HONG KONG OR THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (INCLUDING ITS TERRITORIES AND POSSESSIONS, ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA) (THE "UNITED STATES") OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH THE RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF ANY OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN.

Reference is made to the stock exchange announcement published on 2 February 2022 by Ensurge Micropower ASA ("Ensurge" or the "Company") regarding a contemplated private placement (the "Private Placement") of new shares in the Company (the "Offer Shares") at a subscription price of NOK 0.60 per Offer Share.

Ensurge is pleased to announce that the Private Placement has been successfully placed, through an allocation of 125,561,401 Offer Shares in Tranche 1 and an allocation of 41,105,265 Offer Shares in Tranche 2, for total gross proceeds (i.e. both tranches) of approximately NOK 100 million. Pareto Securities AS (the "Manager") acted as sole lead manager and sole bookrunner in the Private Placement.

The net proceeds from the Private Placement will be used for general corporate purposes which include expanding the Company's manufacturing capabilities and its presence in new evolving markets.

Allocation to investors and payment instructions is expected to be communicated on 3 February 2022. The allocated Offer Shares will be settled with existing and unencumbered shares in the Company already admitted to trading on Oslo Brs, borrowed by the existing shareholder Alden AS ("Alden") pursuant to a share lending agreement entered into between Alden, the Company and the Manager, to facilitate settlement on a delivery versus payment basis. The Offer Shares allocated to applicants in Tranche 1 will thus be tradable from notification of allocation (subject to timely payment), on 3 February 2022, while the Offer Shares allocated to applicants in Tranche 2 will be tradeable one trading day after approval by the extraordinary general meeting expected to be held on or about 24 February 2022 (the "EGM").

The settlement date in the Private Placement for Tranche 1 will be 7 February 2022 and the settlement date for Tranche 2 is expected to be on or about 1 March 2022. The Manager will settle the share loan with (i) new shares in the Company to be resolved issued by the Board pursuant to an authorization (the "Board Authorization") granted by the Companys annual general meeting held on 3 June 2021 (Tranche 1) and (ii) new shares in the Company to be issued following, and subject to, approval by the EGM to be summoned shortly after notification of allocation in the Private Placement (Tranche 2).

Following registration of the share capital increase pertaining to the Offer Shares in Tranche 1 of the Private Placement with the Norwegian Register of Business Enterprises, the Company will have a registered share capital of NOK 206,042,023.33 divided into 1,873,109,303 shares, each with a nominal value of NOK 0.11.

Subject to approval by the EGM, the subscribers in the Private Placement will receive two non-tradeable warrants for every two Offer Shares subscribed for in the Private Placement (the Private Placement Warrants), at no additional cost and with an exercise price equal to the subscription price for the Offer Shares. 50% of the Private Placement Warrants will be exercisable on 30 June 2022 and the remaining 50% will be exercisable on 30 November 2022.

The Private Placement implies a deviation from the pre-emptive rights of the existing shareholders of the Company. The Board has considered this and is of the view that it would be in the best interest of the Company and its shareholders to deviate from the existing shareholders' pre-emptive right to the Offer Shares, and that this would also be in compliance with the requirements in the Norwegian Public Limited Companies Act on equal treatment of shareholders and the prohibition against giving anyone an unreasonable advantage at the Company's or the shareholders' expense and the obligation relating to equal treatment of shareholders, cf. the rules on equal treatment under Oslo Rule Book II for companies listed on the Oslo Stock exchange and the Oslo Stock Exchange's Guidelines on the rule of equal treatment.

In reaching this conclusion, the Board inter alia emphasized that:

The total number of Offer Shares represents less than 10% of the issued and outstanding number of shares in the Company and, consequently, the dilutive effect is limited.

The subscription price of NOK 0.60 per share represents a nominal deviation from the closing price of the share on 2 February 2022 and is therefore considered to represent professional investors' view of the market price for the shares.

A share issue in the form of a private placement enables the Company to capitalize on current market conditions which are deemed beneficial to the interest of the Company and its shareholders. Alternative transaction structures would imply a longer lead time and potentially significant discounts.

As the Private Placement is structured to ensure that a market-based subscription price is achieved, it is not planned to conduct a subsequent share issue directed towards shareholders not participating in the Private Placement.

Completion of Tranche 1 is not conditional upon completion of Tranche 2. The settlement of Offer Shares under Tranche 1 will remain final and binding and cannot be revoked or terminated by the respective applicants if Tranche 2 is not completed.

Completion of Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 is not conditional upon the approval of the Private Placement Warrants at the EGM. The settlement of Offer Shares under Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 will remain final and binding and cannot be revoked or terminated by the respective applicants if the issuance of Private Placement Warrants is not completed.

By applying for Offer Shares in the Private Placement, the applicants allocated shares in Tranche 1 have undertaken to vote in favor of the approval of Tranche 2 and the Private Placement Warrants at the EGM.





Advisors

Pareto Securities AS acts as sole lead manager and sole bookrunner in the Private Placement. Advokatfirmaet Rder AS is legal advisor to the Company and Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS is acting as legal advisor to the Manager in connection with the Private Placement.

For further information, please contact:

Stale Bjrnstad - Investor Relations

E-mail: stale.bjornstad@ensurge.com (mailto:stale.bjornstad@ensurge.com)

Phone: +47 99 16 76 72

Kevin Barber - Chief Executive Officer

E-mail: kevin.barber@ensurge.com (mailto:kevin.barber@ensurge.com)

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

About ENSURGE MICROPOWER

Ensurge is Energizing Innovation (TM) with ultrathin, flexible, and safe energy storage solutions for wearable devices, connected sensors, and beyond. Ensurge's innovative solid-state lithium battery (SSLB) technology is uniquely positioned to enable the production of powerful, lightweight, and cost-effective rechargeable batteries for diverse applications. The company's state-of-the-art flexible electronics manufacturing facility, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, combines patented process technology and materials innovation with the scale of roll-to-roll production methods to bring the advantages of SSLB technology to established and expanding markets. Ensurge Micropower ASA ("Ensurge") is a publicly listed company in Norway with corporate headquarters in Oslo and global headquarters in San Jose, California.

Important information: This announcement is not and does not form a part of any offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase, any securities of the Company. Copies of this announcement are not being made and may not be distributed or sent into any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful or would require registration or other measures. Any offering of the securities referred to in this announcement will be made by means of a set of subscription materials provided to potential investors. Investors should not subscribe for any securities referred to in this announcement except on the basis of information contained in the aforementioned subscription material. The securities referred to in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and accordingly may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and in accordance with applicable U.S. state securities laws. The Company does not intend to register any part of the offering in the United States or to conduct a public offering of securities in the United States. Any sale in the United States of the securities mentioned in this announcement will be made solely to "qualified institutional buyers" as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act. In any EEA Member State, this communication is only addressed to and is only directed at qualified investors in that Member State within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation, i.e., only to investors who can receive the offer without an approved prospectus in such EEA Member State. The expression "Prospectus Regulation" means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as amended (together with any applicable implementing measures in any Member State). This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at persons in the United Kingdom that are (i) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "Order") or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom this announcement may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). This communication must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this communication relates is available only for relevant persons and will be engaged in only with relevant persons. Persons distributing this communication must satisfy themselves that it is lawful to do so. Matters discussed in this announcement may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "strategy", "intends", "estimate", "will", "may", "continue", "should" and similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. Although the Company believe that these assumptions were reasonable when made, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors which are difficult or impossible to predict, and are beyond their control. Actual events may differ significantly from any anticipated development due to a number of factors, including without limitation, changes in public sector investment levels, changes in the general economic, political and market conditions in the markets in which the Company operates, the Company's ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel, changes in the Company's ability to engage in commercially acceptable acquisitions and strategic investments, and changes in laws and regulation and the potential impact of legal proceedings and actions. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors could cause actual events to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in this release by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not make any guarantee that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements in this announcement are free from errors nor does it accept any responsibility for the future accuracy of the opinions expressed in this announcement or any obligation to update or revise the statements in this announcement to reflect subsequent events. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements in this announcement. The information, opinions and forward-looking statements contained in this announcement speak only as at its date, and are subject to change without notice. The Company does not undertake any obligation to review, update, confirm, or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that arise in relation to the content of this announcement. Neither the Manager nor any of their affiliates makes any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of this announcement and none of them accepts any responsibility for the contents of this announcement or any matters referred to herein. This announcement is for information purposes only and is not to be relied upon in substitution for the exercise of independent judgment. It is not intended as investment advice and under no circumstances is it to be used or considered as an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities of the Company. Neither the Manager nor any of its affiliates accepts any liability arising from the use of this announcement. In connection with the Private Placement, the Manager and any of their affiliates, acting as investors for their own accounts, may subscribe for or purchase shares and in that capacity may retain, purchase, sell, offer to sell or otherwise deal for their own accounts in such shares and other securities of the Company or related investments in connection with the Private Placement or otherwise. Accordingly, references in any subscription materials to the shares being issued, offered, subscribed, acquired, placed or otherwise dealt in should be read as including any issue or offer to, or subscription, acquisition, placing or dealing by, such Manager and any of their affiliates acting as investors for their own accounts. The Manager do not intend to disclose the extent of any such investment or transactions otherwise than in accordance with any legal or regulatory obligations to do so. The distribution of this announcement and other information may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. Persons into whose possession this announcement or such other information should come are required to inform themselves about and to observe any such restrictions.
New Delhi: Sara Ali Khan recently held an Ask Me Anything session on Instagram while on sets for a project and encountered a bit of a tough question on her 'shayari' skills. The actress was asked by a netizen why she's so bad at shayari or poetry.

Although the question was meant to insult her or troll her for her shayari, Sara took the question in a good stride and answered with poetry itself!

The user had written: "Why are your shayaris so bad?".

She replied, "So I drive positive people like you mad, And because rude judgements don't make me sad, And I am who I am inspite efforts of mom and dad, As it's a result of all the laughter and fun I had, And not to mention after that I feel glad, I hope you don't actually dislike my shayari, and if you do then just a tad..."

See her funny reply here:

On the work front, Sara recently wrapped up shooting for Laxman Utekar's untitled film in Indore.

The movie stars her opposite Vicky Kaushal. The film is said to be the sequel to the Kartik Aaryan and Kriti Sanon-starrer Luka Chuppi but there is no official word on it yet.

She was last seen in Anand L Rai's 'Atrangi Re' which also starred Akshay Kumar and Dhanush.
New Delhi: Gujarat on Thursday (February 3) eased the Covid-19 restriction and moved the upper limit of guests in wedding ceremonies to 150 people in closed venues.

The upper limit of people attending wedding ceremonies held in open spaces is increased to 300 people. The state extended the night curfew which is imposed from 10 pm to 6 am till February 11.

Gujarat reported 8,934 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday (February 2), up from 8,338 the previous day, raising its tally to 11,77,931, while 34 more patients succumbed to the infection in the state.

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The Affordable Care Act, which not that long ago appeared doomed by Republican determination to kill it, has quietly become an integral and accepted part of Americas health care system. A record 14.5 million Americans this year have signed up to get their health insurance through the acts insurance marketplaces, thanks in large part to the Biden administrations efforts to reverse the sabotage of the Trump years and make the program work.

The ACA, better known as Obamacare, is still far from perfect. But with the partisan wrangling and court battles finally subsiding, the long-term judgment of history for this once-controversial program is coming into focus. As Americans this year decide whether to hand Congress back to the party that spent a decade frantically trying to prevent Obamacares benefits from being realized, its worth stepping back and reviewing this epic achievement.

When then-President Barack Obama and a Democratic Congress approved the act in 2010, over fervent Republican resistance, Americas health care system was a national tragedy and a global embarrassment. Tens of millions of Americans couldnt obtain health insurance because their jobs didnt provide policies, or they had preexisting medical conditions for which insurance companies could refuse them coverage. For huge swaths of society, preventive care was out of reach, and lifelong medical debt was just one heart attack or car accident away.

Even under those dire conditions, America was not (and likely is not yet) ready to rethink the notion that health care should be treated as a for-profit industry instead of a fundamental human right. So the ACA, using ideas that originated with conservative think tanks, was structured to work with the private insurance industry, rather than to replace it. Controls were put on insurance premiums, particularly focused on ensuring that people with preexisting conditions wouldnt be priced out; Americans who still couldnt afford the premiums were eligible for government subsidies.

Republican cries of death panels and rationed care were always nonsense, as the clarity of hindsight now proves. Yet the GOPs years-long efforts to kill Obamacare were relentless. Red states like Missouri refused to expand Medicare, a key component of the program, even though the federal government would cover the cost. Reams of legislation and litigation attempting to kill it were filed perennially. The Trump administration, unable to formally end the program, yanked its advertising funding to make it less accessible to Americans. In real ways, the Republican Party did everything in its power to pull away the newly acquired health care coverage that millions of Americans finally had.

The recent silence from Republican politicians on this issue that previously obsessed them indicates that even they understand the battle is over. The ACA has become an important resource in keeping Americans healthy, and the sky hasnt fallen. Losing it now would be catastrophic. Voters should remember that as they go to the polls this fall.
Bengaluru, Feb 3 : Deepak Hooda was the star for Jaipur Pink Panthers as they beat Dabang Delhi KC 36-30 in the Vivo Pro Kabaddi League Season 8, here on Thursday. The star raider clinched a Super 10 (12 points) and was supported well by his team's defence.

Dabang Delhi's disorganised defence was the main reason for their downfall. Experienced stars Manjeet Chhillar, Jeeva Kumar and Joginder Narwal had very little effect on the match. They got just 7 tackle points in the entire match (which included two Super Tackles).

All-rounder Sandeep Narwal also had a poor outing, making errors in the defence and not involving in the raids. Vijay was the sole performer with 16 points.

Naveen Kumar was back for Delhi after a lengthy injury layoff, but it was his raiding partner Vijay who impressed in the early minutes. In fact, he was the only bright spot for Delhi as Jaipur raiders Deepak Hooda and Arjun Deshwal picked up easy points. Delhi's balance in defence seemed to have been affected by Naveen's comeback and Jaipur were quick to make the most of it.

Two super tackles close to the 10th minute helped Delhi level the points with Jaipur. But the Panthers eventually went on to clinch an ALL OUT in the 16th minute to open a 4-point lead. The Jaipur defenders didn't allow Naveen Kumar any chance to settle and Delhi substituted him for Neeraj Narwal close to the interval. The first half ended 21-15 with Jaipur in a comfortable lead.

Naveen Kumar continued to be benched in the second half as Vijay took over the lead raider duty for Delhi. He crossed his Super 10 as Dabang started aggressively chasing Jaipur. But despite Delhi's best attempts they could not cut short Jaipur's 7-point lead.

All-rounder Sachin Narwal and substitute Nitin Rawal helped Jaipur extend their lead to 10 points. Deepak Hooda clinched his Super 10 as Jaipur maintained the gap in the dying minutes. Vijay tried his best to draw Delhi closer with his raids and ensured Dabang lost the match with a margin of just 6 points.
The client, whose name was not disclosed, is expanding its aluminum processing facilities and expects to process an additional 30,000 tons per year of dross

PyroGenesis Canada Inc said it has struck a deal with an existing client worth US$3 million (C$4 million) on the purchase of the first of three of the company's 10-ton Drosrite systems as it expands its aluminum processing facilities.

The Drosrite system is a process, which maximizes metal recovery from dross - a waste generated by the industry - and for aluminum firms, offers an economic and environmental solution, which eliminates landfill and reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The client, whose name was not disclosed, is expanding its aluminum processing facilities and expects to process an additional 30,000 tons per year of dross. It expects the facility to be operational in April 2022, noted PyroGenesis.

"This purchase order is further validation of the success we are having in introducing our environmental technologies within the aluminum industry, said P. Peter Pascali, CEO of PyroGenesis, in a statement.

"PyroGenesis Drosrite offering enables smelters to not only operate more economically, but also to concurrently reduce their GHGs emissions at the same time."

"With the receipt of the purchase order, we now have thirteen commercial Drosrite systems either in full operation, delivered, or in the process of being delivered. Once all systems are fully operational, we expect to generate recurring revenue, from ongoing maintenance and spare parts contracts."

PyroGenesis said it expects to deliver the first system within six to eight months of receipt of the down payment.

The purchase order also confirms purchasing the second system, at the same price, upon the successful startup of the clients facility and that the facility meets the specific internal project performance/quality requirements of the expansion.

The price and timing of the third system has yet to be quantified.

PyroGenesis Canada Inc is focused on advanced plasma processes and sustainable solutions, which reduce greenhouse gases (GHG), and are economically attractive alternatives to conventional 'dirty' processes.

Contact the author at giles@proactiveinvestors.com
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Border Security Force (BSF) on Thursday said that it has killed one Pakistani intruder on February 2 who crossed International Border and entered into Indian territory near Border Out Post (BoP) of KS Wala in Firozepur Sector.

According to officials at Force's Headquarters here, on Wednesday's evening, the troops deployed on the BoP observed some suspicious movement ahead of Border fencing from the Pakistan side in the area of KS Wala under Ferozepur sector. The intruder crossed IB and entered into Indian Territory.

"The troops challenged the intruder, but he did not stop and continued moving ahead in an aggressive manner, therefore, sensing imminent threat and to stop further misadventure, the BSF troops fired upon the intruder in self-defense, killing one Pak intruder on the spot", the officials said.

The area nearby was thoroughly searched as per the Standard Operative Procedure, they further said, adding that the vigilant BSF troops foiled the nefarious attempts of anti national elements into Indian territory.

Recently on January 28 this year, the BSF had foiled Pakistan's arms and narcotics smuggling bid in Gurudaspur sector in Punjab and recovered arms, ammunition and narcotics suspected to be heroin in large quantities in which a jawan was injured during the crossfire by the miscreants.

Again on January 20, 2022, the BSF also foiled another attempt of smuggling of contraband by engaging a 'flying object' coming from Pakistan in Punjab's Amritsar Sector and seized heroin weighing 7 kg which was being carried into India.

In the past too, such attempts were made to smuggle narcotics, arms and ammunition into Indian territories on the western border by using drones by handlers in Pakistan.

Reacting to these cross border smuggling on the western border, the officials in the security set up said that it has been noticed that such attempts have increased in recent months.

The Pakistan's Inter State Services (ISI) is leaving no stone unturned to smuggle arms, ammunition and narcotics and obviously this has been done to derail assembly election in Punjab, the officials commented.
Khartoum, Sudan (PANA) - The Sudanese government on Thursday reassured the World Food Programme (WFP) there would be no repeat looting or attacks on its properties and food stocks in Darfur
A US counterterrorism mission in northwest Syria last evening killed ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi Al-Qurayshi, reports said.

Sources on the ground reported multiple fatalities, according to a CNN report. At least 13 people were killed in clashes that took place during and after the raid  including six children and four women  according to the Syrian civil defense group, the White Helmets. There were no US casualties, according to the Pentagon.

The raid targeted Al-Qurayshi, who took over as head of the militant group in 2019, just days after leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi died during a US raid in the same area. A US official said he died as Al-Baghdadi did, by exploding a bomb that killed himself and members of his family, including women and children, as US forces approached.

Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said in a statement that the mission was conducted by US Central Command, which controls military operations and activities in the Middle East.

US special forces landed in helicopters and assaulted a house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said. Residents described continuous gunfire and explosions that jolted the town of Atmeh near the Turkish border, an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syrias civil war.

In addition to the 13 killed, two people were also injured and a building was "partially destroyed" following the raid, according to the White Helmets.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/joe-biden-delivers-remarks-on-counterterrorism-op-in-northwestern-syria-that-killed-daesh-leader-1092720633.html

Joe Biden Delivers Remarks on Counterterrorism Op in Northwestern Syria That Killed Daesh Leader

Joe Biden Delivers Remarks on Counterterrorism Op in Northwestern Syria That Killed Daesh Leader

During the overnight raid in Idlib, Daesh* leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi killed himself by detonating a bomb, a senior US administration official... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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US President Joe Biden has delivered remarks after the announcement that the US military successfully carried out a counterterrorism operation in northwest Syria.He earlier revealed that the United States eliminated Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, the leader of the Daesh terrorist group during the operation.According to a senior Biden administration official cited by Reuters, al-Qurashi set off a bomb that killed himself and members of his family, including women and children. The same source confirmed that civilians were killed in the operation, but claimed that they died after al-Qurashi detonated the explosive device.The comments follow an earlier announcement by Pentagon Spokesperson John Kirby, who said that US Special Operations units had successfully completed a counterterrorism mission in northwestern Syria.Follow Sputnik's Live Feed to Find Out More!*Daesh (also known as ISIS/ISIL/IS) is a terrorist group banned in Russia

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For months now, Russia has been building up forces near the Ukrainian border, pulling in troops from as far away as Siberia and the Pacific Coast. Moscow also pulled Washington and the West into talks after laying out sweeping demands for restrictions on NATO enlargement and limits on the alliances activities in Central and Eastern Europe, seemingly seeking to claw back the sphere of influence it lost when the Soviet Union fell apart three decades ago.

Russia says it has no plans for a new invasion of Ukraine, but it has rejected Western calls to de-escalate and accused the United States and NATO of ignoring its stated security concerns.

Following a flurry of diplomacy in December and January, whats next? More talks or a military escalation? What are Russian President Vladimir Putins motives for moves that have made this one of the tensest times since the Cold War? How is Kyiv handling the pressure? And what do Ukrainians and Russians think about the situation?

For some of the answers -- and some of the key questions going forward -- listen to this Twitter Spaces conversation hosted by RFE/RL on February 2.

The speakers were Olga Oliker, program director for Europe and Central Asia at the Crisis Group; Tetiana Iakubovych, a Kyiv-based senior producer for RFE/RL's Donbas.Realities; Rostyslav Khotin, a senior editor in RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service; and Irina Lagunina, director of special projects for RFE/RLs Russian Service.

Hosting the talk was Steve Gutterman, the editor for Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus in RFE/RL's Central Newsroom.
On Wednesday, February 9, at 11.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference titled "How can Ukraine stop losing $300 bln and 300,000 Ukrainians annually?" Participants include Director of Economic Programs of the Ukrainian Institute for the Future Anatoliy Amelin; consultant on economic issues of the Ukrainian Institute for the Future Yulia Samayeva (8/5a Reitarska Street). The broadcast will be available on the YouTube channel of Interfax-Ukraine. Due to quarantine restrictions, the number of places in the press center is limited, the presence of a PCR test or a certificate of vaccination is required. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot. Details by phone: (067) 508-00-89 (Inna).
Rapper Payton Bryce released his album This Is Change on Wednesday, a surprising milestone for the West native  surprising that after 16 years of making beats, its his first.

Its not that Bryce, known best to fans and friends as Pirscription, hasnt recorded to this point. Hes spent much of his performing career making mixtapes and collaborating with other area rappers.

But where mixtapes are collections of others songs, raps and beats, Bryces This Is Change is largely flying solo with his own material and its personal.

Ive been on a big self-growth journey this year. This past year has been one of trial and error, both in business and my personal life. Theres been a lot of death this year and my mental state goes up and down. This album helped me figure that out, he said.

Bryce, 34, worked with Temple producer Clinton Walker on the album, recording it at Walkers CWalka Studios with a little guitar help from cousin Hunter Drake on one track.

Its short: six tracks and a running time under 20 minutes, but Bryce sees it as the next rung up in his career. Though Wednesday, Feb. 2, was the official release date, its been out long enough to register on Amazons music charts, where it hit No. 3 in new rap/hip-hop album releases and No. 13 on new albums. Wednesday is also his chance to splash on the iTunes charts and he encourages his fans to buy the digital album rather than streaming it because of the greater impact album sales have on the charts.

The former West High School student is proud hes managed to make a living in what he loves, mixing performing with podcasting, event promotion, shooting music videos and creating graphics. Ive been self-sustaining off of music for about 10 years now, he said. Its enabled him to raise two daughters, 10-year-old Isabella and two-year-old Zara, with partner Beatriz Chavez on a 10-acre property between West and Waco that he points out he bought with his income from rapping.

Choosing to misspell prescription so that his performing name would stand alone on a Google search is part of the hustle. At the same time, hes known for collaborating with other rappers and performers, always open to helping those around him. Good does go a long way, he explained. I want to see the most come out of everything.

While hes a familiar presence onstage at Rockys Roadhouse in Bellmead and more recently Brotherwell Brewing, the rapper said he spends a good amount of time driving to gigs and events in Dallas and Austin, due to a lack of rap or hip-hop venues in Waco.

Two years ago at this time, Bryce was preparing to perform as part of a Waco showcase at Austins South By Southwest Music Festival, only to see a COVID-19 lockdown close that opportunity. Hes spent much of last year making opportunities of his own with This Is Change the latest of those, although with SxSW returning to live performances this year, Bryce may see a second chance at the festival in the years ahead.

Hes hoping to raise his profile and that of Wacos music and rap scene with the new album and promises its not his last. Theres a lot more music in the can, he said.
With big aspirations from the start of his career, trainer Nick Gallucci is well on his way to achieving his dreams.

The former Future Star Award finalist has lived up to those early projections, securing his first OBrien Award nomination as Trainer of the Year in 2021 with a $2 million season. More than doubling his earnings from the previous year, Galluccis career-best campaign included 63 wins and he was the leading money-winning trainer in the Ontario Sires Stakes program.

It was just surreal. This time last year, I wasn't expecting to have as much success as we did, Gallucci told Trot Insider. The horses just really stepped up to the plate.

Among those horses, three have been nominated for two-year-old pacing divisional honours, including the Millar Farms homebred fillies Prohibition Legal and Silver Label, and colt Betterhavemymoney.

I was hoping to get nominated  everybody kind of hopes for that  so when the news finally came out, I was obviously really excited. I'm very, very happy to have the three horses get nominated, said the private trainer for George Millars Millar Farms, which is also an OBrien Award finalist, in the Armstrong Breeder of the Year category.

For Gallucci, who once said he would become the number one trainer in the world one day back in 2014 when he was a finalist as a rising star, hes already proven himself to be among Canadas best.

Well, it was a lot harder than what I thought when I first started training, but one day I'd like to be [the best in the world], he laughed, reflecting on his early statement. We're top two in Canada [now], so I'm really happy with that.

Partnering with Millar Farms was a key move for the driven 34-year-old horseman, who aspired to train stakes calibre horses and now manages a stable of 30 at the Stouffville, Ont. farm.

When I had a public stable, I trained horses for George for about three years and then I wanted to make a switch over to stakes horses and I felt this is probably my best opportunity, recalled Gallucci. So, in late 2019, I started working for George privately at the farm. He still lets me train a couple outside horses, but the majority of the horses I train now are for him and having George as an owner is a pretty unbelievable feeling because he kind of just lets me do whatever I think is best by the horses and it's really turned out to be successful for both of us. And having him nominated as a breeder is just as much of an accomplishment for myself as being nominated as trainer.

Their parade of OBrien Award-worthy stars will land them at least one bronze trophy when the winners are announced at the virtual gala on Sunday, Feb. 6 with Prohibition Legal and Silver Label named finalists in the Two-Year-Old Pacing Filly category.

While both are remarkable fillies, Gallucci gives the nod to Prohibition Legal for her near-flawless season during which she overcame minor setbacks to win eight of nine starts and $564,204 in purses. The daughter of Big Jim out of Catch A Wish capped off her perfect OSS season with a Super Final victory  a first for Gallucci  and proved to be among the best in Grand Circuit competition winning a division of the Eternal Camnation Stakes and finishing second in the Shes A Great Lady Stakes to U.S. divisional champion Niki Hill  a runner-up performance that felt just like a win for Gallucci.

Finishing second in the Shes A Great Lady was really special, he said. You always dream to have a horse good enough to race in that caliber of race and to lose to a horse like Niki Hill is not a disappointing effort at all. You know, it's almost like winning. Any other year leading up to this year, [Prohibition Legal] would have been the best filly in North America and just happened to hit probably one of the best fillies I've ever seen. That was probably the highlight for me and, other than that, winning the Super Final and finishing second with Silver Label, that was really special.

Silver Label ended her own near-perfect freshman season with six wins and two seconds from eight starts, earning $341,726. In addition to three OSS Gold victories, the Bettors Delight-Hidden Gem filly also showed up on the Grand Circuit, winning the Champlain Stakes.

She was probably about a month behind Prohibition Legal starting out, noted Gallucci. She had a chip removed out of her right hind ankle before we started training her so that kind of set her back a month, but she made all the right steps and, actually, how fast she came to be the second-best filly in Ontario is pretty remarkable. She only had one qualifier and one race leading into the next Gold and she just really proved herself to be in that category in that second start at Georgian. She had an almost flawless season. In any other year, she probably would have been the best two-year-old filly in Ontario, she just had to deal with Prohibition Legal.

While the fillies were a lock to receive OBrien nominations, Gallucci was pleased to see Betterhavemymoney earn some well-deserved recognition for his own rookie campaign. The son of Betterthancheddar out of Whosluckierthanme won four of his 10 starts and banked $335,474.

The highlight for him obviously was the Battle of Waterloo, said Gallucci. He broke the track record, but it seemed like it took a little bit of the sting out of him for the rest of the year. We ended up finding a couple issues with him so hopefully we're able to get those rectified and have him in tip top form for this year. I'm really anticipating him coming back good as a three-year-old. He danced every dance, so I was pretty happy to see him get nominated.

The talented roster trained by Gallucci doesnt end there.

Powertrain's mile in [1]:48[.2] on North America Cup night was a really special race, said Gallucci of highlights from his other stable stars. And I had a couple that didn't show many races but showed a lot of talent and I think they'll come back really good as three-year-olds  [trotting fillies] Hershey Seelster and Magic Maggie. I think they both showed some ability. Maybe we can get them nominated this year, who knows? If they build on what they did last year, I think they'll probably put forth a good season this year.



For now, hell take a moment to let the success of his surreal season sink in and make the most out of a virtual celebration this year on OBrien night with his team that works hard behind the scenes.

Gallucci is a finalist for Trainer of the Year along with eight-time defending champion Richard Moreau, who had the most wins and earnings in Canada in 2021 and campaigned a trio of his own divisional finalists.

With the success we had, I thought I would get nominated," said Gallucci. "Ive got nothing more than respect for Richard. You look at some of the stats he's put up throughout his career and you're probably never going to see anyone come close to the amount of wins and success that he's had in his life so just being nominated against him is a really special feeling. I lost the Future Star Award but maybe one year  it doesn't have to be this year  if I could win the Trainer award, it would make up for that in spades.

The winners will be announced at the OBrien Awards Virtual Gala this Sunday. The live stream is set to get underway with the red carpet pre-show at 5:30 p.m., followed by the awards show at 7 p.m. on standardbredcanada.ca.
On 24 January, a military junta overthrew Burkina Fasos president, Roch Marc Christian Kabore. In this Q&A, Crisis Group experts Mathieu Pellerin and Rinaldo Depagne explain how this latest coup confirms the failure of democratically elected regimes in West Africa.

What do we know about this coup and its background?

On 22 January, violent demonstrations broke out in Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Fasos two largest cities, as citizens protested against deteriorating security. After these protests, in the morning of 23 January, shots were fired in several barracks in Ouagadougou, particularly in the Sangoule Lamizana and Baba Sy bases, as well as in two northern towns, Kaya and Ouahigouya. A group of angry soldiers based at the Sangoule Lamizana camp then issued a list of six demands, including the replacement of the chief of staff and the director of the National Intelligence Agency (ANR), whom they accused of incompetence and corruption. Other demands on this list have come up repeatedly since 2018 but have never been properly met: the need for more troops and equipment to combat jihadist groups, and for better care for the wounded and support for families of soldiers killed in fighting.

Later on 23 January, the situation appeared to be under control. The authorities downplayed the crisis in a national television broadcast, announcing that the army was not taking power and describing the soldiers as simple mutineers. Simultaneously, however, hundreds of demonstrators took to the capitals streets in support of the soldiers. The government began to negotiate with the rebel soldiers; some of these talks were conducted by the monarch of the Mossi (the countrys largest ethnic group), Mogho Naba, who often acts as mediator of last resort in times of serious crisis. Not only did these discussions fail, however, but some of the presidents negotiators, including a gendarmerie officer, also reportedly switched sides to join the putschists. More gendarmes who had until then been loyal to President Roch Marc Christian Kabore defected, tilting the balance of power in the rebels favour. Soldiers attacked the presidents home to the south of Ouagadougou that night. The intense fighting with the presidents security detail left at least two people seriously injured.

In the evening of 24 January, the putschists forced President Kabore to sign a handwritten resignation letter. Immediately afterward, the rebel soldiers appeared on national television to announce the presidents overthrow and the creation of the Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration (MPSR), the new juntas executive body. In a televised statement, the MPSR took pains to reassure foreign partners of its intention to respect pre-existing commitments, notably relating to human rights, and to propose within a reasonable timeframe a roadmap for a return to constitutional order accepted by everyone. Such positive signals provide no guarantees, however. In Mali, the transitional regime made similar pledges after the August 2020 coup, yet it ended up taking a hard line and postponing the elections that had been scheduled for February 2022.

The MPSRs president, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, is a 41-year-old lieutenant colonel who trained at one of West Africas most prestigious military academies, the Prytanee Militaire du Kadiogo. He is also a graduate of the Ecole de Guerre in Paris, and recently wrote a 158-page book on West African armies and terrorism. Since 2015, Damiba has held various positions in the army and has been stationed in regions where jihadists are active. He was formerly a member of the presidential guard of Blaise Compaore (1987-2014), Kabores predecessor, and he skilfully kept his career on track despite the regime change in October 2014. In particular, he remained on good terms with senior officers of the Compaore era without being sidelined by Kabore, who took power in 2015. On 16 December 2021, Kabore appointed him commander of one of the countrys most important military zones, the third region surrounding the capital.

What caused the coup?

The coup stemmed primarily from the security concerns of millions of Burkinabe.

The coup stemmed primarily from the security concerns of millions of Burkinabe affected by the violence of jihadist groups, community militias and sometimes regular soldiers. For many civilians and soldiers, the security situation reached a tipping point with the attack in Inata, in northern Burkina Faso, on 14 November 2021. Fifty-three gendarmes were killed in this vicious attack, which sealed President Kabores fate. As one local newspaper described it, the government symbolically collapsed in the shock waves felt around the country after the incident, the single most lethal attack on soldiers in the countrys history. A few days afterward, local media revealed that the gendarmes killed, and their comrades, had been nearly starving, severely weakened by the lack of food, and that their appeals for help from their superiors, just days before the attack, had gone unheeded.

Inata was the latest in a series of massacres, including one that took place in Solhan in June 2021 when 160 villagers were killed. The populations outrage at these tragedies gradually coalesced into protests, as people took to the streets demanding regime change. Some concluded that a military officer would be better equipped than an elected civilian president to address the urgent issue of insecurity. President Kabores overthrow generated little counter-protest. On the contrary, on 25 January, a thousand-strong crowd gathered in Ouagadougou to applaud the MPSRs power grab. The symbolic significance of Inata, combined with the groundswell of popular rejection of Kabores regime, probably persuaded the soldiers that the time had come to act. A first coup attempt, organised by Lieutenant Colonel Emmanuel Zoungrana, had already taken place, but failed, on 10 January.

The MPSRs coup detat opens another chapter in a long history of military involvement in Burkina Fasos politics since 1960. After independence, the army acted as the countrys ultimate arbiter or institution of last resort during severe political crises. It did so after the 2014 popular uprising, when Isaac Zida of the Presidential Security Regiment was appointed head of state and then prime minister of the transitional government. It did so again in 2015, when a section of the army consolidated the democratic transition by thwarting an attempted coup. Military regimes have held power for 48 of the 61 years since the countrys independence.

Why has the army failed to provide security?

On becoming president in 2015, Kabore inherited a security apparatus that had become increasingly fractured over his predecessor Compaores 27-year rule. Compaore himself had to cope with the legacy of coups in the 1970s and 1980s. Two blocs had formed within the military: the presidents security regiment, which received special treatment under Compaore (in terms of salaries, training, promotions and resources), and the rest of the army, which was largely neglected. Divisions also existed between the armys senior and lower ranks, as became apparent during the violent rebellions of the first half of 2011. Soldiers levelled particular criticism at the highest-ranking officers for enjoying the ill-gotten gains of widespread corruption.

Furthermore, Kabore entered office in 2015 to find an army that had barely seen active combat, apart from the short-lived wars with Mali in 1974 and 1985, a handful of undercover operations in the Mano river basin countries, and peacekeeping missions in Darfur and Mali. When local and regional jihadist groups gained strength after 2016, Burkina Fasos inexperienced army suddenly found itself confronting a fierce, battle-hardened enemy.

Lacking a military background or experience of war, and distrusting an institution that he feared could destabilise his rule, Kabore failed to correct his predecessors poisoned legacy. Instead of root-and-branch reform, in 2016 he began an endless round of promotions and dismissals of senior figures within his defence departments, changing defence ministers and chiefs of staff multiple times. The president appears to have based his appointments on criteria of loyalty rather than competence. He relied on the gendarmerie, which stoked mistrust in other parts of the army and deepened antagonisms. Many of the best-trained officers from the former regime who could have helped the army were sidelined, paying a price for their loyalty to Compaore. Corruption among senior officers remains unchanged since Compaores day, disrupting supplies to the anti-jihadist battles front lines and depriving those engaged in combat of the equipment they need.

During his six years in power, President Kabore employed several strategies in attempting to contain the expansion of jihadist groups, but without success. Between 2016 and 2019, he focused on a military response. The use of force by the army and the gendarmerie led to many instances of abuse and even massacres of civilians that went unpunished. This violence against the population drove some civilians to join the jihadists ranks, thus strengthening these groups instead of pushing them back. The jihadist threat, at first confined to the Sahel, spread to the Centre-North, East, North and Boucle du Mouhoun regions. Since late 2019, in response to signs of exhaustion in the army and with more soldiers refusing to go to the front, but also in reaction to intensifying public demands for greater security, President Kabore decided to mobilise civilians to fight terrorism. The Volunteers for the Defence of the Motherland (Volontaires pour la defense de la patrie), often comprising former Koglweogo  village-based militias initially tasked with fighting serious crime  became adjuncts to the army. These civilians, armed and trained by the state, scored occasional victories but failed to turn the tide. In some areas, they have even undermined social cohesion and worsened the security situation.

From September 2020 to March 2021, a ceasefire with one of the two jihadist groups operating in the country, the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), almost completely halted clashes between this group and the army, producing genuine calm. Local agreements were reached with JNIM in various communes in the Soum, Loroum and Yatenga provinces, with the blessing of local government authorities and representatives. When the nationwide ceasefire ended, however, JNIM resumed a campaign of brutal violence, while the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara  which had never participated in the truce  continued its attacks on the army and volunteer groups. The jihadist groups had taken advantage of the ceasefire to strengthen their foothold in many territories and even to expand into areas farther south, particularly in the Cascades region. The resumption of large-scale attacks in June 2021 prompted Kabore to embark on yet another program to restructure the armed forces, this time taking the helm of the defence ministry himself. This reshuffle failed to prevent the Inata attack, however, in the same way that Decembers restructuring to avoid another such attack failed to avert the January coup.

The juntas priority over the coming months will be unity within the armed forces.

The juntas priority over the coming months will be unity within the armed forces in order to rapidly improve security for the countrys population. Among his first steps, Lieutenant Colonel Damiba held a round of meetings, on 25 January, with senior army officers and others drawn from the police, customs, and waterways and forest rangers. In his first televised speech on 27 January, he stated: We have many priorities, but security clearly remains at the top of the list. Damiba faces several urgent tasks in improving the armed forces cohesion, including carefully distributing appointments within the junta, striking a fair balance between the gendarmerie and the army, implementing a new anti-terrorism strategy and rooting out corruption. His decisions regarding how to treat army officers from Compaores regime and how to assign them roles within a reformed security apparatus will be key. No information is yet available about which civilian and political figures the junta will choose to govern the country. In any event, without swift improvements in the security situation, Ouagadougous new rulers risk rapidly disappointing those who hope for a return to a more normal life  and thus losing popular support.

What are the regional and international ramifications of this coup?

The coup confirms the return of army officers to the front of West Africas political stage, pointing to the failure of its democratically elected governments. Three major states in the region  Burkina Faso, Guinea and Mali  are now led by officers who came to power using force. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) seems incapable of curbing this seemingly deep-rooted trend. On 9 January, the regional organisation announced severe sanctions on Mali, placing it under embargo, in a bid to stem the epidemic of coups spreading through the region. But three weeks after these sanctions were rolled out, the officers in Burkina Faso took power, indicating that these measures have failed as deterrents and that the authority of ECOWAS has weakened. Worse, the junta that seized power in Ouagadougou could even create an axis of military regimes that might support one another in resisting pressure from the regional organisation and foreign partners. The fact that Lieutenant Colonel Mamadi Doumbouyas Guinea has decided not to close its border with Mali, despite the ECOWAS embargo, is a first sign of such an alliance.

International partners, particularly France, the United States and the European Union (EU), dealing with a series of faits accomplis and having little influence over events, are torn between positions of principle and pragmatism. On one hand, they must push for respect for the constitutional order, with some actors, such as the EU, traditionally taking their lead from ECOWAS, including in imposing sanctions after that order is violated. On the other, they need to maintain a constructive relationship with the new authorities in order to avoid jeopardising their own security strategy, which is often focused on cooperation between civilian and military officials in the country, as in Mali and Burkina Faso, where they have considerable commitments.

It will be difficult for international partners to take the same tough line against the 24 January coup in Burkina Faso that they took after the military takeover in Mali. The hardline approach, as adopted by major partners such as France, merely strengthened the transitional authorities relationships with alternative partners such as Russia, and turned many Malians against Paris and ECOWAS. The Malian population is hostile to international sanctions, first because it broadly supports the transitional authorities and, secondly, because ordinary people are often the first to suffer from the sanctions impact.

Burkina Fasos international partners should avoid a head-on confrontation and seek to work as best as they can with this transition.

The situation in Burkina Faso calls for a less dogmatic, more nuanced response. While the coup should rightly be denounced as a backward step that offers little by way of lasting solutions, it is born of the Burkina Fasos chronic insecurity and has significant public support in a country eager for change. Lacking leverage to sway the junta, Burkina Fasos international partners should avoid a head-on confrontation and seek to work as best as they can with this transition in order to help stabilise the country. While constantly emphasising the importance of returning to constitutional order and calling on the new authorities to honour the countrys human rights commitments, ECOWAS must initiate a dialogue with the new authorities by sending, as soon as possible, a representative to Ouagadougou charged with taking stock of the new regimes proposals and with exploring areas of potential future collaboration. The U.S. and EU, two important partners that enjoy a reputation for neutrality in Burkina Faso, should support this dialogue initiative and insist on a return to the constitutional order within a reasonable timeframe.
Trot Insider has learned that Rustys Flying, the winningest pacing mare in North America, passed away recently. She was 14.

The daughter of Artiscape and Flying Free amassed 108 wins through 12 seasons of competition, the most of any female Standardbred in harness racing history. She began her career in Delaware under the care of her breeder, Bobby Myers, before taking her 1:53.2 lifetime mark at Tioga Downs in her eight-year-old season.

She relocated north of the 49th parallel in the fall of 2018, and won 35 times in Canada over just shy of three years. The final win of her career came at Marquis Downs, in Saskatoon, Sask., on Oct. 2, 2021, for owners David Watson and Kris Jon Bjarnason. She recently passed away after a mishap in her stall.

Rustys Flying enjoyed her most illustrious season in 2019  her first full year competing on Canadian soil  winning 20 races and finishing third or better in all but eight of her 41 starts. She also amassed double-digit single-season win totals on four other occasions.

She has never earned a lot of money per race, she grinds out almost $1,000 per start and she's never won a stakes race or anything like that but she just keeps plugging along, former owner Glenn Tarver said in a 2020 interview. "Shes a blue-collar horse ... she works hard for her money.

Rustys Flying earned her nearly $350,000 in purses "the hard way," competing primarily in low-level claiming events through six states and three provinces. Her consistency made her a popular commodity at the claim box, as she was claimed 18 times in her career.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the connections of Rustys Flying.
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Amit Kapoor is the founder of the ed-tech company, Eupheus Learning. The new-age company provides solutions to bridge the gap between in-class and at-home learning. We hosted Amit for an insightful interview for our special series, NewsX India A-List. Below are the excerpts from the interview:

We opened the interview by asking Amit about the vision that powers Eupheus Learning. Amit responded by decoding the etymology behind the brands name and said, Eupheus is a Greek word that stands for the willingness to learn and that also showcases our philosophy of willingness to learn, integrate and take the students of India into the 21st century by unlearning what we have been doing for long and adopting the new normal.

Explaining to the viewers about the approach his company uses to achieve their goal, Amit told us, We are an ed-tech company. The intention has been how can we integrate what has been taught inside the classroom into what a student learns at home. Now, if you look at it, a lot of times, there are two distinct silos  whatever is being taught in the classroom and there is a disconnect between what actually happened in the classroom.

He continued, A parent, or a consumer company, would try to help that out, not knowing whats happening in the classroom Our intention has been to integrate both solutions together, have one platform where we can empower a teacher inside a classroom. Eupheus Learning believes that one teacher is able to create an impact for several thousand students. Moreover, he said, In this interplay, from a school distribution perspective, we dont want to do everything on our own. If we can have like-minded partners from across the world joining hands with us, we provide access to 20,000 schools today.

Our next question to Amit was about what sets Eupheus Learning apart from the other ed-tech platforms, to which he replied, The USP is more about offering that convenience to a school. Parents, teachers, and students have a very large catalogue of solutions, which they can pick and choose from. Explaining further, Amit said, A school gets to choose Maths, Science, English  or any subject area  where we will provide a solution which not only is in alignment with CBSE or ICSE, on top of it, skills related to that subject are also integrated.

Giving some examples about how Eupheus Learnings solutions make learning a wholesome and engaging experience, Amit told us about the skill development tools the company provides for particular subjects. For Computer Science, coding; for Maths, manipulatives; for English, a spoken English software to improve pronunciation of kids, he said. He further added, What we are trying to do is integrate skills along with the curricular requirement so that it becomes engaging, and the learning outcomes far superior compared to a normal curriculum offline.

We have launched a school operating system. A single platform where schools can conduct live classes. Everything is automated. So, for example, attendance is automatically registered when kids attend the class, said Amit while telling us how his companys solutions help all the stakeholders of a school. He also said, Communication with parents is happening via the same platform. Homework, tests, assignment, content consumption is happening on the same platform.

Watch the full interview here:
A cross-community group of Troubles victims has pressed the Taoiseach to raise the British Governments legacy proposals with US President Joe Biden.

Micheal Martin met the Truth and Justice Movement in Dublin today (Thursday February 3) to discuss their opposition to London plans to introduce an amnesty on prosecutions related to the conflict.

He told the group that the Irish Government has consistently engaged with the US on legacy issues and will continue to do so, his spokesman said.

Mr Martin is likely to travel to Washington to meet President Biden in March for the traditional St Patricks Day visit, which has not taken place in person for the past two-years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

After the meeting, victims campaigners said the Taoiseach had offered them his full support and that he totally rejects the plan.

Campaigner Raymond McCord said: He said he totally rejects the proposals, that he supports us in it.

We spoke about American involvement. I raised it. We would like to see the Americans involved, I want it to be brought to the attention of Joe Biden.

The full support is there for us, he agrees with everything that were saying.

A spokesperson for Mr Martin said: The Taoiseach met with representatives from a victims of the Troubles group today to discuss their concerns in relation to legacy issues.

He told them that we have consistently engaged with the US on on legacy issues and will continue to do so.

Ireland has voiced strong opposition against unilateral action on a statute of limitations which has been opposed by parties across Northern Ireland.

The UK Government wants to bring in a statue of limitations on future prosecutions of military veterans and ex-paramilitaries for Troubles incidents predating April 1998.

The move has been opposed by all political parties on the island of Ireland.

The group of victims, including Michael Gallagher, Raymond McCord, Kate Nash and Cathy McIlvenny, have long campaigned against the proposals, and recently met with Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney.

Mr Coveney and the Taoiseach have accepted an invitation to meet the group in Belfast.

Mr McCord praised the Taoiseach following their hour and a half long meeting.

He agreed that any proposals have to have a victims-led approach, he was in total agreement with that, he said.

Theyll be engaging with the British Government. Well be kept informed of whats happening. That will happen, thats given us hope and confidence too.

It was good to sit with a man, and you can know by the way hes speaking to you that hes telling the truth and hes not just saying it.

We all agreed that the meeting was above our own expectations, it went that well.

In July last year, the UK Government published a command paper outlining its intention to prohibit future prosecutions of military veterans and ex-paramilitaries for Troubles incidents pre-dating April 1998.

The proposals, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson said would allow Northern Ireland to draw a line under the Troubles, would also end all legacy inquests and civil actions.

They were strongly condemned by the Taoiseach in the Dail last month.

It would be totally unacceptable, it would be a betrayal of the victims of all violence, he said.

There is no sense here for a lot of people, a lot of victims, of closure, of answers in terms of who did what.

Many, many people feel that theyve been forgotten about, or the loss of their loved ones has been completely forgotten about, and there is no balance in terms of how we approach that.

I believe that British Government has dragged its feet for too long on legacy in my view.
NEW DELHI : Serum Institute of India has asked the Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to reduce the gap between the second Covid dose and the third precautionary dose to three months.

The current gap is of nine months in line with Centre's revised guidelines for officials on election duty.

In a letter to Mandaviya, Prakash Kumar Singh, director, Government and Regulatory Affairs at SII, stated that the third dose of Covid-19 vaccine is being administered within 6 months of the second dose in various countries and this schedule is giving very good results to control the infection, an official source said.

The firm also asked the union health minister to allow it to administer Covishield's precaution dose for all individuals aged above 18 years.

Singh also mentioned that private companies, educational institutions, social organisations, central government organisations as well as public undertaking companies etc are continuously requesting the firm for the third dose of Covishield for their staff members and families.

He referred to Union Health Ministry's letter dated 21 January according to which the precaution dose can be administered 3 months after the second dose of the vaccine was given to officials and staff deployed on election duty in the poll-bound states of Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.

For this, necessary changes have been made on the CoWIN portal to facilitate early administration of the precaution dose.

Till 28 January, more than one crore people were administered the third dose of the Covid-19 vaccine out of which more than 90 lakh doses were of Covishield.

"In view of the above facts, we request for your kind intervention and consideration on our following submissions: The administration of third dose of our Covishield vaccine should be allowed for all individuals above the age of 18 years.

"The gap between second and third dose to be reduced and the administration of third dose of Covishield vaccine to be allowed after the completion of 3 months in line with revised guidelines of GoI for the officials and staff deployed on election duty," the official source quoted Singh as having said in the letter.

"Sir, it is need of the hour and in the interest of public at large... This will help to control unpredictable and fast spread of various strains of Covid-19 which is disrupting economy and social stability of our country," Singh said in the letter.
(Newser)  The FBI says its Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating bomb threats to historically Black colleges and universities as hate crimesand the matter is of the highest priority. Almost 20 institutions across the country received threats Monday and Tuesday, causing some to lock down their campus. A law enforcement source tells NBC that the FBI has identified six "tech savvy" juveniles as persons of interest. The source said the suspects were using "sophisticated methods" to disguise the source of the threats, which appear to have a racist motivation.

Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young says a caller Monday described an elaborate plot involving seven bombs placed around the perimeter of Bethune-Cookman University, the AP reports. The chief says that the call lasted around 20 minutes and that the caller also said a gunman would open fire around noon at the historically Black university. Young said the caller claimed to be a member of the neo-Nazi Atomwaffen Division. The FBI says no explosives have been found at any of the colleges and universities that received threats this week and early last month. "This investigation is of the highest priority for the Bureau and involves more than 20 FBI field offices across the country, the agency said in a statement Wednesday.

"These threats are being investigated as racially or ethnically motivated violent extremism and hate crimes," the FBI said. At Coppin State University in Baltimore, where classes were shifted online after a threat Tuesday and students already on campus were told to shelter in place, professor Sabrina Taylor tells CNN she was saddened by the development and immediately reached out to students. Taylor, the university's undergraduate program director, says she wanted to make sure students felt safe. She says she reminded them that "they are on their path to greatness, and they cannot let individuals who their intention is to cause destruction, chaos and fear and doubt, stop them from walking in their purpose." (Read more bomb threat stories.)
TOKYO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to recent research released by "RENOSY", a one-stop comprehensive real estate service platform operated by GA technologies Co., Ltd (Headquarters: Minato-Ku, Tokyo; CEO: Ryo Higuchi / Securities Code: 3491) has shown that more than 70% of the young generation in their 20s tend to discuss "investment" and "asset management" with their friends. The research was carried out online by RENOSY and has interviewed 444 people between age 20~50 who are interested in financial investment and asset management.

Japan-Insights: Asset Management Is Becoming A Norm Among Younger Generation In Japan

From the result of the research, we could see that more than 70% of the interviewees (in their 20s) showed that they have an interest about asset management and do talk about such topics with their friends or people around them. The average amount for such finance planning is about 50,000 JPY per month. And more than 80% of the interviewees (all age groups) feel that they do not have sufficient financing for retirement if they rely on pension only. Less than 70% of the interviewees answered that they pay more attention to how to manage their assets effectively than saving money merely.

[Key Highlights]

More than 70% of the young people interviewed (in their 20s) say that they do discuss "asset management" with their friends while only 30% of the older generation (in their 50s) answered "Yes".

More than 80% of the people interviewed answered that they feel they do not have enough money to support their lives after retirement relying on pension only.

More than 60% of interviewees in their 20s said that they do not worry about the assets build-up arrangement they are doing for now.

While the average amount of investment for the younger generation is about 50,000JPY . This number increased to 150,000 JPY per month for the older generation.

. This number increased to per month for the older generation. More than 50% of the interviewees (between ages 20s~40s) answered that they are interested in using smartphones as a device for investment and asset management.

 Data Collection Method

Time: Nov. 4th 2021~ Nov. 8th, 2021

Primary method: Online questionnaire

Replies received: 444 people (Users who are interested about investment with an annual income above 4,500,000 JPY)

 Details of the Research

1. More than 70% of the young people interviewed tend to discuss asset management with their friends, while only 30% of the older generation do so.

There is a significant difference between different age groups when it comes to the topic of asset management. About 73% of the young people interviewed answered that they do talk about investment or asset management with their friends. There are only 38% of people in their 50s answered "Yes". We can see an obvious difference between different generations when it comes to "finance". Since "asset management" will become part of the new high school curriculum starting from April 2022, we are expecting to see the younger generation become more cautious and familiar with "money". In fact, we received several feedbacks from our users this time that they purchased real estate using RENOSY because of advice from people around them.

[Users voices (2)] extracted data

"I purchased a real estate from RENOSY (1) because my friend's advice." (Male, mid 20s)

"I have always been interested in real estate investment, and happened to know about RENOSY through my friend. I also think the agent is reliable." (Male, mid 20s)

I had friends who had used the service before, and was recommended by them to the service." (Female, 20s)

2. More than 80% of the interviewees said that they are worried about their finances after retirement if they relied on pension only.

"Do you think you can be financially flexible by relying on a pension only after retirement?" 87% of the total interviewees answered "No". When we take a closer look at different age groups. The answers are as follows: 91% for the 20s, 85% for the 30s, 92% for the 40s, and finally 77% for the 50s. As people tend to live longer nowadays, the issue of finance after retirement will become a more and more serious problem for most people. As a result, we could see from the research result that 87% of the people we interviewed feel anxious about the financial arrangement after retirement.

3. Younger generation prefers asset management than savings. With that being said, more than 60% of the young people do not worry about their current asset management plans.

When it comes to the question "How do you feel about your current finance plan for the future?" 66% of the younger generation answered with "Do not really worry about that" and "Do not worry about it at all". On the other hand, when it comes to "the average amount of investment being put in every month"; it is about 50,000 JPY for people in their 20s and the number increases to about 150,000 JPY for people in their 50s which is a significant rise along with an increase in age.

4. More than 50% of the interviewees (people in their 20s~40s) are interested in using smartphones as device for investment or asset management.

When asking about do you prefer using a smartphone as a device for investment or asset management. The younger generation (people in their 20s) showed the highest interest about it. According to research released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs & Communications (MIC) in June 20213, the percentage of the population owning a smartphone is 86.8% and the number keeps rising. The prevalence of smartphones is even more than 90% among groups of people between age 20 to 39 which is higher than the percentage of owning a computer. Within this large context, we could expect the interest of using smartphone for assets management is going to become more prevalent among the digital native generation (digital immigrants).

RENOSY is a comprehensive real estate service platform offers a one-stop service to its customers. The entire transaction process can be completed online with the RENOSY App. Property owners could manage everything about their houses easily on their smartphones with as specialized App called "OWNR by RENOSY". Our goal is to provide an efficient and smooth customer experience with the introduction of cutting-edge technology.

 About RENOSY Real Estate Investment Service

RENOSY focuses on used compact apartments in the city parts of Japan. The brand was ranked as No1 in the pre-owned apartments transaction sector in both 2020 and 2021 in research done by Tokyo Shoko Research. It also topped the newly built properties sector for the first time in 2021 (4). One of the most unique points about RENOSY is that half of our customers are younger generations between ages of mid 20 to 30s which is quite rare for real estate investment industry. We also actively introduce cutting edge technology into our service lineup with the following characteristics:

Focusing on the introduction of online transaction using AI technology. Providing a one-stop service covering all areas of real estate from rental & lease management to renovation. A quick inventory turnover rate that is 1/20 of the industry's average (5).

RENOSY combines both online and offline tricks, especially with the implementation of AI technology, it is certainly the first choice for customers when it comes to real estate investment in this digital era.

 About RENOSY Marketplace Business

The business mission of RENOSY is "To impress people and create a world leading company with the power of technology x innovation". The mother company of RENOSY is GA technologies which is a public listed company with stocks listed in the Tokyo mother's stock market. RENOSY is a comprehensive one-stop platform provides a full range of real estate service from "rent", "buy", "sell", "lease", "renovate" to "invest", basically everything you could think of in the real estate sector. The service has about 240,000 members registered and have more than 150,000 listings available on our website (6). We focus on making the traditional real estate industry more tech-savvy and efficient. Our goal is to provide a more sophisticated customer experience with both online and offline services.

 About GA technologies

Company: GA technologies Co., Ltd.

Representative: Ryo Higuchi

URL: https://www.ga-tech.co.jp/en/

Head office: 40F of Sumitomo Fudosan Roppongi Grand Tower, Roppongi 3-2-1, Minato District, Tokyo

Year of founding: March 2013

Capital fund: 7,219,146,516JPY by October 2021

What we do:

Running the RENOSY service, an online, one-stop real estate service platform

Running the ITANDI BB service, a cloud service targets at real estate management companies

Sub companies: ITANDI Co.,Ltd, Modern Standard Co., Ltd, Shenjumiausuan Co.,Ltd and 8 other companies

1 Industry trend research: "customer satisfaction about website's image" (Aug. 2020 version)

Reference release: https://resources.ga-tech.co.jp/Release/210225_renosy_no1_ff.pdf

2 Customer satisfaction research. A specific research carried out among RENOSY users by the brand. Reference release: https://www.renosy.com/asset/reviews

3 Please refer to the research released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs & Communication of Japan about "trend of public's habits regarding means of communication ."

4 The research was released by Tokyo Shoko Research

5 The inventory turnover refers to the period of time needed for a stocked listing to be sold counting from the point where the property has been acquired. The average turnover period is 14 days for RENOSY (statistics in 2020) compared to an average of 277.5 days (statistics in Oct. 2020) in the industry.

6 Number of RENOSY members by Oct. 2021; number of listings available by Oct. 2020

CONTACT: Judy Yu, [email protected], +81-3-6230-9180

SOURCE GA technologies Co., Ltd.
NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Greystone, a leading national commercial real estate finance company, announced it has arranged a $35 million loan on behalf of an affiliate of BLDG Management Group for Stella Residences, a 45-unit class-A multifamily project in the East Village submarket of Manhattan. BHI (Bank Hapoalim B.M) provided the bridge loan, refinancing its existing construction loan for the asset. Greystones Drew Fletcher, Matthew Klauer and Jesse Kopecky served as exclusive advisor in arranging the financing on behalf of BLDG.



Stella is a 10-story rental apartment building located at 251 E 2nd Street in the East Village of Manhattan. The project offers an exclusive, boutique-living experience with a lifestyle-focused set of amenities catering to todays renter such as generous layouts, high-end condo-quality finishes, and outdoor balcony/terrace spaces for some units. Amenities for residents include a fitness center, private resident lounge overlooking a landscaped roof deck with unobstructed views, laundry room, storage room, bicycle room, and a virtual doorman.

This financing demonstrates the continued strong demand for high quality transitional multifamily assets in New York City. As the existing construction lender, BHI was able to structure a flexible bridge solution that will allow BLDG to stabilize and season the property prior to converting to long-term permanent financing, said Drew Fletcher, President of Greystone Capital Advisors.

BLDG has collaborated with Greystone many times over the years, and this financing proves yet again Greystones ability to deliver creative financing solutions for our growing multifamily portfolio. BHI has been an exceptional and creative partner throughout the construction of Stella, so we are extremely pleased to expand our relationship through this new financing, said Lloyd Goldman, President of BLDG.

Greg Nuber, BHI Vice President, Commercial Real Estate, commented, BHI is thrilled to have completed this tailored transaction, by providing multi-year transitional financing, which replaces the prior successful construction loan refinancing, for our valued customer BLDG, whose vision and commitment to the development of this unique and sophisticated property was the key to its success. Working with Greystone to complete this transaction was a very positive experience. Their professionalism and attention to detail were critical to the timely completion of this financing.

About Greystone

Greystone is a private national commercial real estate finance company with an established reputation as a leader in multifamily and healthcare finance, having ranked as a top FHA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac lender in these sectors. Loans are offered through Greystone Servicing Company LLC, Greystone Funding Company LLC and/or other Greystone affiliates. Greystone Capital Advisors is a full-service real estate capital intermediary and advisory team that services a select group of the most prominent real estate owners and developers across the U.S. For more information, visit www.greystone.com.

About BLDG Management Group

BLDG is a privately held multigenerational real estate investment and management company that is one of Manhattans premier owner operators of commercial real estate. BLDG operates a portfolio comprising over 8,000 apartments and 20 million square feet of commercial space in over 300 properties across the United States. For more information, visit www.bldgmanagement.com.

About BHI

BHI, the U.S division of Bank Hapoalim, Israel's leading financial institution, provides commercial banking solutions to middle market clients in sectors including commercial real estate; general, domestic and Israeli C&I; private equity; food and beverage; apparel; healthcare; corporate banking; and high-tech. In addition to its New York headquarters, the bank operates U.S. Representative Offices in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey; Miami, Florida; and Los Angeles, California. For more information, visit www.bhiusa.com.

PRESS CONTACT:

Karen Marotta

Greystone

212-896-9149

Karen.Marotta@Greyco.com






WASHINGTON  When Kurt Groszhans set out from North Dakota for Ukraine in 2017, he was eager to connect with his familys ancestral homeland and to farm the rich, black soil for which the country is known.

But his farming venture with a law professor whos now a high-ranking Ukrainian government official soon collapsed in acrimony and accusations, culminating in his arrest last November on charges of plotting to assassinate his former business partner. His family and supporters say the accusations are bogus and designed to silence Groszhans claims of corruption in Ukraine, a country pulled between Russian and Western interests and straining to shed its reputation for graft and cronyism.

The case is unfolding as Ukraine braces for a potential Russian invasion and as the U.S. has ordered the families of American personnel at the U.S. Embassy there to evacuate,. The upheaval has Groszhans family afraid that the North Dakota farmer could be left behind, with the U.S. government preoccupied with broader concerns of possible military action and geopolitical chaos.

Were terrified for my brothers well-being right now, especially everything that youre hearing in the news with the Russian troops on the border, his sister, Kristi Magnusson, said in an interview with The Associated Press. With fears an invasion could force the evacuation of U.S. diplomatic staff, she called on the Biden administration and the State Department to use their leverage to get him home.

If the embassy is not there to check on him and make sure that hes doing OK, we dont know what will happen, she added.

Asked for comment, the State Department said the administration took seriously its responsibility to help detained Americans and was closely following the case, but declined to comment further.

Republican Sen. Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, who recently visited Groszhans at the detention center where he awaits trial, said the episode has created friction between at least me and them, if not our two governments, that should be alleviated at a time when U.S. and Ukrainian interests should be aligned in countering the threat from Moscow.

This bit of friction is unnecessary, he added. And I think we could relieve all of us of it simply by releasing Kurt.

Groszhans, a 50-year-old farmer from Ashley, North Dakota, traveled in 2017 to Ukraine, where his ancestors are from. The chance to work the countrys coveted black earth was a dream come true, and he invested a large sum to get a farming operation up and running, his sister said. In a country with a prized agricultural sector, Groszhans was proud of his work, she said, sending pictures to his family of his crops.

Once there, he connected with a law professor, Roman Leshchenko, who offered himself up as a native speaker with knowledge of the local farming business and regulatory requirements. Grozhans named him the director of his company.

Things fell apart quickly.

Groszhans has alleged in a lawsuit and in an internet post that Leshchenko began embezzling money from him, defrauding him of over $250,000 in total and transferring funds to a family company. Groszhans has been vocal about his allegations, describing himself in a Medium post in August as a humble but deceived investor.

Probably, I am not the first or the last American investor who made a mistake in the person hired as a manager. But the personality of this manager makes my case unique, he wrote.

Leshchenko declined to comment to the AP, but has denied the embezzlement claims in interviews with the Ukrainian media and has insisted that the men had agreed that Leshchenkos company would run the farming business.

Hes leveled his own accusations against Groszhans, alleging that the American farmer planted genetically modified soybean that is banned from cultivation and sales in Ukraine and it was that discovery that prompted Leshchenko to resign from the company and was the source of their dispute.

The circumstances of this criminal proceedings must be verified as part of the pre-trial investigation conducted by the National Police and only on the basis of the results of which, after the relevant facts and their evidence have been clarified and established, the prosecutors office can make appropriate procedural decisions, Tetyana Kozachenko, a lawyer for Leshchenko, told The Associated Press.

Ukrainian media that began looking into the conflict reported that Leshchenko had used some of the funds for a roughly $60,000 contribution to the 2019 campaign of current Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who later named Leshchenko the governments minister of agrarian policy and food.

The AP was unable to independently confirm the contribution. Zelenskyys office did not respond to a request for comment.

Amid controversy about the contribution, Leshchenko was interviewed by the Kyiv Post last year. The article said the $60,000 donation came from Leshchenkos dying father. Leshchenko said he and his father saw Zelenskyy as the only person who wants to change Ukraine, bring structural reforms.

Magnusson says Leshchenko ultimately did return some money to her brother, but also threatened to have him arrested if he didnt stop talking publicly about his fraud accusations.

In November, Groszhans was arrested along with his assistant on charges of plotting to assassinate Leshchenko, allegations that Groszhans supporters say are wholly fabricated but may have arisen from Groszhans hiring of a private investigator to dig into Leshchenko as part of his litigation.

The arrest, his family and supporters believe, was a pretext for silencing his allegations, particularly in a country that has sought to shore up diplomatic and military support from the U.S. through reassurances it is making a serious effort to curb corruption.

My brother has never in all of his 50 years of life ... been in trouble with the law, Magnusson said. And we dont believe any of this can be true because why would you want to assassinate somebody if youre trying to collect money back that is legally owed to you?

His supporters are asking the Biden administration to formally designate him a wrongful detainee, a classification that would allow for his case to be reassigned to the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs at the State Department.

But his family fears the window for attention to Groszhans case may be limited, given the potential for an incursion by Russia and the dwindling diplomatic presence by the U.S.

It just makes us more and more concerned for him and for his safety to know that these people could be leaving and Kurt is forgotten about, and hes left behind, Magnusson said.
TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nuvo Group, a leader in modern maternal-fetal health, today presented new clinical data for INVUTM, the only FDA-cleared, prescription-initiated, remote pregnancy monitoring and management platform, at the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine (SMFM)'s 42nd Annual Pregnancy Meeting. The data, presented in a scientific poster, "Experience with home-based, remote non-stress tests, including automatic decision support for interpretation of reactivity," demonstrates the feasibility of telehealth solutions for high-risk pregnancies through remote fetal non-stress tests (NSTs) and the novel machine learning clinical decision support system (CDSS) to detect fetal heart rate accelerations. This study comes on the heels of a recent publication in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (AJOG) titled, "Novel uterine contraction monitoring to enable remote, self-administered nonstress testing," which firmly establishes INVU's unique capabilities as an innovative telehealth solution.

The study, conducted by researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and Nuvo Group, and sponsored by Nuvo Group, was performed with women who were greater than 32 gestational weeks in a high-risk singleton pregnancy using the INVU device at home. The NSTs were reviewed by clinicians via the INVU web-based provider dashboard. Of the 30 at-home sessions, clinicians deemed 27 such sessions as interpretable, validating the ability of the INVU system to remotely capture medical grade NSTs. Sessions were then analyzed by the CDSS for reactivity compared to the clinicians' assessments. The CDSS correctly classified 92.6 percent of the interpretable NSTs compared with clinicians. In addition, the CDSS tool determined the NST to be reactive an average of 14 minutes earlier in the session, potentially reducing the length of NST sessions and improving clinician workflow.

NSTs for high-risk pregnancies are frequent and traditionally conducted with a patient and provider in a clinical setting. Once a pregnancy has been deemed high risk, which often happens after 26-28 weeks of gestation, NSTs may be recommended once or twice a weekand occasionally daily. With INVU, pregnant patients are given the opportunity to conduct accurate testing under the supervision of their doctor from the comfort of home. INVU safely and accurately shifts the point of care and frees up time for both the doctor and the patient.

"We are very pleased with the study outcomes showcasing our ability to successfully conduct non-stress tests remotely as well as the next layer in our technological stack: the ability to accurately support the clinical workflow through an automated clinical decision support system," says Amit Reches, chief technology officer, Nuvo Group. "Taken together, these capabilities have the potential to significantly improve pregnancy care for both the clinical care team and expectant mothers."

"The results of this research are very promising for the future of at-home pregnancy monitoring for high-risk pregnancies that typically require frequent doctor visits," said Nadav Schwartz, MD, an associate professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and a medical advisor to Nuvo Group. "At-home NST testing can expand options and lessen the burden for pregnant women and their healthcare providers."

About Nuvo Group

Based in Tel Aviv, Israel, Nuvo Group Ltd. ("Nuvo") is committed to reinventing pregnancy care for the 21st century through new technology, tools, and practices for providers and expectant mothers, including the INVU by Nuvo platform, an FDA-cleared, prescription initiated remote pregnancy monitoring and management system. The INVU sensor band enables the delivery of remote non-stress tests and maternal & fetal heart rate monitoring today while pioneering new data-driven personalized pathways that Nuvo believes will help improve health outcomes for all women in the future. The technology and patent estate that underpin the INVU platform have been awarded a number of industry recognitions, including Fast Company's Next Big Things in Tech (2021), CB Insights' Digital Health 150 (2020), and MedTech Innovator's Top 50 MedTech Startups (2021), as well as multiple grants from some of the world's leading academic medical centers and scientific bodies. Nuvo is led by a diverse team of experienced business and medical professionals, dedicated data engineers, software designers and proud parents who embrace a collective mission to give every life a better beginning.

For more information and complete indications, contraindications, warnings and precautions along with instructions for use, visit: www.nuvocares.com.

SOURCE Nuvo Group
At a time when the future of theatergoing remains very much in question, Netflix revealed a film lineup for 2022 that is again chock-full of A-list stars and directors, giving viewers plenty of reasons to watch movies at home.

Ryan Gosling, Ryan Reynolds, Jennifer Lopez and Charlize Theron will be in movies released weekly on the streaming service. The filmmakers behind Avengers: Endgame will unveil The Gray Man, their first big-budget film since leaving the Marvel universe, while Tyler Perry will release two films on Netflix, including one featuring his beloved character Madea.
CALVERT CITY, Ky., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CC Metals and Alloys (CCMA), a mining and metals company led by Mordechai Korf and Uriel Laber that employs dozens of local Kentucky workers, today announced the completion of a $2.5 million investment in its production equipment that will create nearly 40 new manufacturing jobs in Kentucky.

A leading producer and supplier of high-grade ferrosilicon alloys, elements essential in the manufacturing of iron and steel, CCMA operates utilizing three submerged arc electric furnaces to produce various types of ferrosilicons. The company invested $2.5 million into modernizing one of its three furnaces that had previously been idle since April 2019. This investment in American manufacturing capacity created 37 new good-paying jobs, growing CCMA's workforce by over 28%. In addition, CCMA's output will grow to 85,000 metric tons annually, marking an 18% increase.

This investment follows the long history of Messrs. Korf and Laber making ongoing continuous investments into the CCMA plant to improve manufacturing efficiencies while promoting safety, job security, and supporting the local community. This past December, CCMA provided crucial food and housing support to six local charities helping hundreds of Kentucky families at Christmastime, and the company provided over $70,000 in needed relief supplies to support the recovery of Kentucky communities after a tornado moved through Western Kentucky.

Mordechai Korf and Uriel Laber, partial owners of CCMA, issued the following joint statement: "This is an investment in our business, our employees, and our community. CCMA has long supplied a significant portion of the demand needs for ferrosilicon in the United States, and this investment gives us the opportunity to hire more workers while also doing our part to reduce the reliance on ferrosilicons produced outside of the United States. We look forward to growing CCMA to the next level of performance."

SOURCE CC Metals and Alloys, LLC
AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- HackNotice, the world's leading threat awareness company, announced the first-ever security and threat awareness combined service, accessible to new and existing users. The added security awareness training course enables individuals to deepen their understanding of good cyber hygiene practices. The course offers 50 training videos, a security exam, and a certification.

Cybersecurity training is mostly offered to company employees, often costing hundreds of thousands of dollars for intensive, week-long seminars and lectures. However, having good security awareness is vital for any individual. The newly released self-paced course ensures that anyone online can learn good cyber practices.

HackNotice's new course provides focused modules tailored to a user's risk profile. "What makes the combined service great is that our threat modeling and security awareness course work together. When someone faces a large amount of personal information exposure, we recommend more phishing training. When someone has several passwords stolen, we have them focus on our password training. Now, users can receive the critical training that they need instantly, tailored to their specific risks," said Steve Thomas, CEO, and Co-Founder of HackNotice.

For customers of HackNotice Teams, HackNotice's security and threat awareness service, the new course is an excellent addition for companies looking to strengthen their enterprises' security programs. Quick, in-the-moment, lessons are a perfect way to engage employees and business departments within the organization. Clients can also access dynamic reports to see user and departmental progress, and areas of improvement.

About HackNotice

Hacknotice is the only company-wide threat awareness platform, making employees more cautious online. Users monitor, review, and take swift actions against their real cyber-threats. The platform focuses on bridging the gap between security teams and other employees through real-time alerts, around-the-clock monitoring, recovery recommendations, and additional education. HackNotice's mission is to make all employees threat aware, creating a resilient culture of security. Founded in 2019, HackNotice is located in Austin, TX. For more information, visit www.hacknotice.com .

SOURCE HackNotice
ANALYSIS: While the decision has helped many immigrants, it has also hurt many others. Here are some suggestions to get the immigration system back on track.

Canadas decision to land over 400,000 immigrants in 2021 has come at a cost ANALYSIS: While the decision has helped many immigrants, it has also hurt many others. Here are some suggestions to get the immigration system back on track.

Canadas decision to land over 400,000 immigrants in 2021 has come at a cost ANALYSIS: While the decision has helped many immigrants, it has also hurt many others. Here are some suggestions to get the immigration system back on track.

Canadas decision to land over 400,000 immigrants in 2021 has come at a cost ANALYSIS: While the decision has helped many immigrants, it has also hurt many others. Here are some suggestions to get the immigration system back on track. Kareem El-Assal Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif

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The Canadian government entered 2021 with an ambitious immigration goal.

Despite all the challenges being caused by the pandemic, it wanted to land 401,000 new immigrants, the highest total since Canada became a country in 1867.

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

In a recent press release outlining the steps it is taking to improve application processing, the government noted Canada had in fact surpassed its target and landed some 405,000 immigrants last year.

Congratulations are in order to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Achieving this target during an extremely difficult operating environment is commendable. The pandemic continues to pose challenges for applicants and the immigration department alike, yet IRCC managed to defy all odds and land a record number of new permanent residents. Congratulations are also in order to the many new permanent residents who can now go on to pursue their hopes and aspirations in Canada. These include permanent residents who have benefitted from special measures and policies during the pandemic such as IRCC reducing its Express Entry score requirements and introducing an immigration program for essential workers and international graduates in 2021.

IRCC is clearly proud of the achievement, as it issued a press release celebrating it right before Christmas.

Consequences of the 401,000 newcomer target

On the flip side, IRCC has recognized the decision to pursue 401,000 landings in 2021 has resulted in negative consequences. Regrettably, these consequences could have been avoided had the Canadian government chosen to pursue a more sustainable immigration policy last year.

The purpose of increasing the immigration target was primarily to promote population, labour force, and economic growth, while also continuing to reunite families and help refugees. Given that some 60 per cent of new immigrants fall under the economic class, it is safe to say Canadas main immigration objective is economic in nature.

And yet ironically, the Canadian governments goal last year undermined its own objective of supporting the economy via immigration. It decided to focus on transitioning more people from within Canada to permanent residence. Prior to the pandemic, about 30 per cent of new economic class permanent residents transitioned from within Canada, while 70 per cent arrived from abroad. Last year, this was reversed, as 70 per cent of new economic class landings came from within Canada, while 30 per cent came from abroad.

A first consequence of this decision is the reduced flow of new immigrants from abroad is contributing to weaker population, labour force, and economic growth. Canadas population growth is the weakest since 1915/16. Prior to the pandemic, Canadas population was growing by over one per cent per year which was the highest rate among highly developed countries. Some 80 per cent of annual population growth was thanks to immigrants moving to Canada.

Reducing the share of new economic class immigrants coming from abroad last year has also hurt the labour market. Immigrants were comprising 80 per cent or more of Canadas new workers each year. The limited foreign arrivals is contributing to the highest job vacancy rate in Canadian history, with nearly 1 million jobs currently unfilled.

Pursuing the target has also led to IRCC reducing its selection standards. When it launched Express Entry in 2015, IRCC said the new Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) was a scientific way of selecting candidates best positioned to succeed in the labour market.

Prior to the pandemic, a candidate needed a CRS score of around 470 to be invited to apply for permanent residence. Last year, however, IRCC brought the score down to as low as 75, so it could get more in-Canada candidates to count towards its 401,000 admissions target. In other words, the Canadian government felt it was more important to achieve this target than to use the evidence-based criteria it has set to evaluate an Express Entry candidates suitability to succeed in our economy.

This is not to say that those with lower CRS scores are unable to contribute to Canada. History shows that immigrants of all socio-economic backgrounds do make overwhelmingly positive contributions. But rather, this observation is meant to point out the disconnect in the Canadian governments immigration policy.

It remains to be seen how well those who gained permanent residence via Express Entry with a lower CRS score will do in the labour market. Chances are they will do just fine, but IRCC and Statistics Canada research strongly suggests candidates with higher human capital end up with higher earnings and better overall labour market outcomes. If this holds true, IRCC will have given up the opportunity to select higher-potential immigration candidates in exchange for breaking Canadas annual admissions record.

IRCC concedes that the focus on the target has made backlogs even worse. The department now sits on a backlog featuring 1.8 million people, up from 1.5 million in July 2021. This is because IRCC focused on processing in-Canada applications while existing and new applications were given less priority since they would not count towards the 401,000 admissions goal. Unfortunately, this is creating a vicious cycle.

The backlog will continue to slow the arrival of economic class immigrants from abroad, further stalling labour force and economic growth. In addition, family reunification and refugee resettlement processing will remain slower.

As noted, IRCC and Immigration Minister Sean Fraser came out on January 31 to do some damage control by acknowledging the scale of the backlog problem and outlining the steps being taken to get processing times back to IRCCs service standards.

This is a positive step but there are other things the government can do in the meantime to get the immigration system back on track.

Suggestions to get the immigration system back on track

It would be beneficial for IRCC to communicate to the public its strategy to tackle the backlogs. Applicants have a right to know where they stand and when they can expect decisions to be made on their files. It would be better for IRCC to be transparent and honest about the actual length of time it is taking to process a given application stream as opposed to the current approach of applicants being left in the dark for much of the process.

IRCC also needs to sustain its processing capacity at a high level throughout the year. Its processing capacity understandably fell immediately following the pandemic. However it was not until June 2021 that it began to finalize permanent residence applications at a much higher rate and they eventually managed to finalize over 500,000 in total last year.

According to IRCC, sustaining this level will see it get through its entire permanent residence inventory by the end of this year. IRCC should keep up this pace beyond 2022 so that all applicants see their files processed in a timely manner.

IRCC should also resume Express Entry invitations to Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates immediately for a variety of reasons.

First, Express Entry is crucial to Canadas economic recovery and alleviating current labour shortages.

Second, given its current Express Entry inventory, IRCC should be able to reduce processing times for new Express Entry applications by the second half of the year, and hence issuing Invitations to Apply (ITA) now would not create significant additional pressure for the department since they will be in better position to process such applications in a timely manner once they are submitted (applicants have up to 60 days from when they receive an ITA to submit a completed permanent residence application).

Third, the rationale for pausing FSWP invitations (travel restrictions) has not existed since Canada lifted travel restrictions on all Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) holders in June 2021. It is also worth noting IRCC has been processing work permit, study permit, and temporary resident visa applications of those abroad over the past year, so there is little justification for the slow pace of FSWP application processing.

Fourth, resuming draws would help to restore Canadas global competitive standing. The pause in FSWP draws over the past year has caused global talent to consider their immigration options elsewhere.

Fifth, a sustained pause in draws will see thousands of CEC candidates lose their status in Canada and the absence of a solution by IRCC will force such individuals to leave Canada.

This leads to a final suggestion: IRCC should introduce another temporary public policy to allow those in Canada seeking to remain as a permanent resident to extend their temporary status in an easier way. For example, it can offer a one-time work permit extension to all CEC candidates residing in Canada that have been affected by the pause in Express Entry invitations to them since September 2021.

IRCC did something similar last year when it offered a one-time 18 month work permit extension to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders so they would have more time to obtain permanent residence. Among the benefits of this approach is it would give Canadian employers sustained access to such work permit holders and would mitigate the labour market risks of seeing tens of thousands of workers having to leave Canada due to the expiry of their work permit status.

The Canadian government can not undo the past, but what they can do is think creatively to come up with solutions to the negative consequences that have occurred due to their pursuit of over 400,000 immigrant landings in 2021. Coming up with effective solutions will be to everyones benefit and would be another major reason to commend IRCC.

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 CIC News All Rights Reserved. Visit CanadaVisa.com to discover your Canadian immigration options.
OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Investing in Canada's forest sector by building sustainable communities is an investment in our future. Encouraging the increased use of wood in Canada's construction industry will help achieve our climate change goals while increasing the demand for Canadian wood products and creating good jobs for Canadians.

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources, today announced an $887,000 investment to support the replacement of the Duchesnay Creek Bridge that connects the City of North Bay and the Nipissing First Nation. The Government of Ontario contributed $17 million. The bridge opened in August 2021.

This funding supported the design and construction of the new replacement bridge and was made with the intention of maintaining the original timber aesthetic of the old bridge. The bridge was built through a limited partnership of Nipissing First Nation and Miller Paving, which provided employment and training opportunities for the community. This high-visibility project will help promote the use of mass timber in highway bridges across Canada. By building with wood, this project will result in a total carbon benefit of 991 metric tonnes of CO 2 , which is equivalent to taking over 190 cars off the road for a full year.

"When partners work together, great things get built and communities thrive." Said Minister of Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu, "Using green construction materials and including employment and training opportunities with the local community, this project shows others how to make sure what we build as a country can help with our goals of a cleaner and more inclusive country. A big congratulations to all involved."

Funding for this project is provided through Natural Resources Canada's Green Construction through Wood (GCWood) program, which encourages the use of wood in non-traditional construction projects, such as tall and low-rise non-residential buildings and bridges. The program aims to position Canada as a world leader in innovative timber construction systems and technologies and in the low-carbon economy.

Projects like this will help Canada achieve its 2030 climate change goals by finding effective ways of building infrastructure sustainably using Canadian wood products while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Quotes

"There is no solution to climate change that does not involve our forests. Creating new markets for Canadian timber supports our forestry workers, creates jobs and gets us to net zero. By supporting the use of wood in construction, we are taking action to protect our planet and support our communities."

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson

Minister of Natural Resources

"As part of our plan to build Ontario, our government contributed $17 million to construct the new Duchesnay Creek Bridge in partnership with Nipissing First Nation. This project, completed in August 2021, provided significant opportunities for skills development and job creation while demonstrating the environmental benefits of building with wood."

The Honourable Caroline Mulroney

Ontario Minister of Transportation

"We were pleased to partner in this project to demonstrate that infrastructure can be built in new and innovative ways. Not only were we successful in building a beautiful bridge that improved pedestrian safety for our members, but we also demonstrated that First Nations can lead and manage projects on this scale. We are so pleased that this bridge was built using wood and put together by our people, piece by piece, with our partners at Miller Paving."

Chief Scott McLeod

Nipissing First Nation

Associated Links

Follow us on Twitter: @NRCan (http://twitter.com/nrcan)

SOURCE Natural Resources Canada

For further information: Media Relations, Natural Resources Canada, Ottawa, 343-292-6100, [email protected]; Joanna Sivasankaran, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Natural Resources, 819-790-907, [email protected]; Dakota Brasier, Office of the Minister of Transportation, 416-904-8384, [email protected]
REGINA, SK, Feb. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - As Canada works towards recovery, investments in our airport infrastructure continue to be crucial to maintain safety, security, and connectivity for travellers, workers and communities. Government of Canada investments also help ensure Canada's aviation industry is well positioned to recover from the impacts of the pandemic.

Today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, announced new funding of close to $16 million to help the Regina International Airport recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and to support continued air services and important transportation infrastructure projects at the airport.

To help ensure safe airport operations for aircraft, passengers and crews, the airport will receive $13.2 million from Transport Canada's Airport Critical Infrastructure Program to support the rehabilitation of Runway 13-31, including the replacement of runway pavement, sub-drainage and lighting systems, and the construction of runway end safety areas (RESA).

In addition to the funding for the critical infrastructure projects, the Government of Canada provided the Regina International Airport with $2.6 million from Transport Canada's Airport Relief Fund to help it maintain continued airport operations and essential air services for residents and workers in Regina and surrounding communities.

Quotes

"As we move forward with the safe and gradual return of activity in the aviation sector, in a way that continues to support the health, safety, and security of all Canadians, it will be imperative that we continue to ensure a vibrant and competitive Canadian air sector. These critical investments will allow the Regina International Airport to invest in the infrastructure and tools needed to help re-invigorate the aviation industry and allow Canadians to feel safe and secure when they travel."

The Honourable Omar Alghabra

Minister of Transport

Quick Facts

The Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, launched in May 2021 , will provide $571.2 million in funding over five years to airports for eligible infrastructure projects related to safety, security, connectivity to mass transit systems, or testing and screening related to COVID-19 and its variants.

, will provide in funding over five years to airports for eligible infrastructure projects related to safety, security, connectivity to mass transit systems, or testing and screening related to COVID-19 and its variants. First introduced in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Airport Critical Infrastructure Program is part of a federal stimulus recovery plan designed to build a stronger, more inclusive and more resilient economy post-COVID-19.

The Airport Relief Fund, launched in May 2021 , provided $64.8 million in funding in 2021-2022 for targeted airports whose 2019 revenues were less than $250 million .

Associated Links

Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to e-news or stay connected through Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram to keep up to date on the latest from Transport Canada.

This news release may be made available in alternative formats for persons living with visual disabilities.

SOURCE Transport Canada

For further information: Laurel Lennox, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Omar Alghabra, Minister of Transport, Ottawa, [email protected], 343-549-7892; Media Relations: Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055, [email protected]
Ceremonies have begun to honor and remember late North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem.

Stenehjem, 68, died Friday following his hospitalization after being found unresponsive that morning at his home. A cause of death has not been made public. In December he had announced his plans to retire at the end of this year, when his current term expires.

Family held a private gathering on Tuesday night, according to Gretchen Stenehjem, wife of Steve Stenehjem, a cousin of Wayne's. State Sen. Nicole Poolman, R-Bismarck, read the Walt Whitman poem "O Captain! My Captain!", about the death of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln. Stenehjem had a bust of Lincoln on his office desk. Poolman was Stenehjem's running mate when they made an unsuccessful bid for the governor's office in 2016.

Stenehjem's casket was brought to the Capitol on Wednesday to lie in state in Memorial Hall. Law officers, family members and others gathered as the casket was brought up the steps at the south entrance. Gov. Doug Burgum and other dignitaries received it, and a private viewing was held in the Attorney General's Office before a four-hour public viewing period. Dozens of people packed Memorial Hall to pay their respects.

A public funeral is scheduled at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Bismarck Event Center. A funeral procession will begin shortly after 10 a.m. Thursday, traveling south from Bismarck Funeral Home down State Street to the Capitol mall loop and then south again to the Event Center downtown.

Officers with the Bismarck Police Department, Burleigh County Sheriff's Department and state Highway Patrol will be shutting down numerous intersections in the areas of State Street, Boulevard Avenue, the Capitol loop and Seventh Street, from about 10-10:45 a.m. The Interstate 94 Exit 159 eastbound off-ramp -- the interchange of I-94 and State Street -- also will be closed during the procession. Police advise motorists to use Washington Street and Bismarck Expressway to travel between the north and south parts of the city during that time. People also are asked to avoid entering the procession.

"We greatly appreciate the cooperation of our citizens to help North Dakota law enforcement honor a great leader, law enforcement advocate and public servant," Police Lt. Luke Gardiner said.

A live broadcast of the funeral will be available on all statewide NBC stations, and livestreamed on KFYR-TV's Facebook page and at yournewsleader.com. Cremation will take place after the service. A private family burial will be held later.
The Southern California Gas Co. settled a lawsuit this week filed by the Center for Environmental Health stemming from the 2015 Aliso Canyon facility gas leak, the largest natural gas leak in U.S. history. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Southern California Gas Co. settled a lawsuit this week filed by the Center for Environmental Health stemming from the 2015 Aliso Canyon facility gas leak, the largest natural gas leak in U.S. history.

The suit alleged that SoCalGas had violated California's Proposition 65, which requires businesses to provide warnings about possible exposures to toxic chemicals.

As part of the settlement, the utility company must monitor for benzene at its Aliso Canyon facility in the San Fernando Valley and provide text-message and email alerts for all residents in the surrounding area in the event of another leak.

The settlement includes a $1.55-million payment from SoCalGas to the plaintiffs, the State of Californias Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment and counsel," wrote SoCalGas spokesperson Christine Detz in statement.

The leak began in Oct. 2015 and lasted for more than 110 days, releasing 109,000 metric tons of methane and other chemicals, including benzene. Exposure to benzene liquid or vapor can irritate the skin, eyes and throat and in extreme cases cause cancer and reproductive issues.

The incident immediately caused nausea, nosebleeds, skin rashes and breathing problems for thousands of residents in the Porter Ranch community and surrounding areas.

The community of Porter Ranch was particularly hard hit.

This settlement is long overdue ... but it does not erase the health and environmental impacts our community has suffered and continues to suffer, Kyoko Hibino, co-founder and director of Save Porter Ranch, said in a release from the Center for Environmental Health.

This signed agreement is a major step in making the polluter responsible for fence line benzene monitoring, and ensuring residents right to know if and when they are being exposed to benzene, Kaya Allan Sugerman, director of the Illegal Toxic Threats Program at the center, said in the release.

The settlement is the latest development stemming from the 6-year-old incident.

Story continues

Last September, SoCalGas agreed to pay $1.8 billion in settlements from more than 35,000 victims of the leak.

In January, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced a request for proposals for an independent study into the short and long-term affects of the leak. Many area residents have waited years for clearer information about what, specifically, they were exposed to and what the impacts of that exposure may be. Already, some residents have expressed concerns about cancer and other long-term health effects.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Operations at the oil terminals of some of northwest Europe's biggest ports have been disrupted by a large-scale cyberattack, brokers and authorities told AFP on Thursday.

Antwerp in BelgiumEurope's second-largest port after Rotterdamand the major German port Hamburg were among those targeted in the cyberattack.

"There was a cyber attack at various terminals, quite some terminals are disrupted," Jelle Vreeman, a senior broker at Rotterdam-based Riverlake, told AFP.

"Their software is being hijacked and they can't process barges. Basically, the operational system is down," Vreeman added.

With the systems down, the oil terminals are unable to process tankers and barges unloading oil and oil products.

Germany's Hamburg and at least six other oil terminals in the Netherlands and Belgium seem to be affected by the cyberattack, Euronews and AFP report.

Company IT systems are being affected at the major oil trading hub Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp, which appears to be one of the main victims of the cyberattack.

Germany is investigating a cyberattack that has targeted oil facilities in what could be a possible ransomware attack, prosecutors told AFP. Europol, the EU's police agency, has offered to help German authorities with the investigation.

The disruption to oil terminal operations at major ports in northwest Europe comes days after a cyberattack on a German oil storage and logistics firm disrupted fuel supply chains in Germany, where supermajor Shell was forced to reroute supply to alternative depots.

Shell was able to "reroute to alternative supply depots for the time being," a spokesperson for Shell's German unit, Shell Deutschland GmbH, said in a statement on Tuesday as carried by Reuters.

A few days earlier, oil supply and logistics firms Oiltanking Deutschland GmbH and oil trading firm Mabanaft, both of which are subsidiaries of Hamburg-based group Marquard & Bahls, were victims of a cyberattack that affected their IT systems.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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The suspect in Tuesday's deadly shooting at Bridgewater College in Virginia is a former student at the school, according to local media reports.

The shooting, which left two campus officers dead, sent the small and private liberal arts college into lockdown for more than three hours.

Alexander Wyatt Campbell, 27, was arrested nearby and is being held at Rockingham County Jail.

Campbell had four years of education before he dropped out of Bridgewater, WHSV reported in Virginia. Campbell is a former member of the track and field and cross country teams at the school, but he was also banned from the dining room on campus at one point.

The former student from Ashland, Va., was arraigned on Wednesday and faces five felony charges: two counts of capital murder, one count of first-degree murder, aggravated felony murder of more than one person and use of a firearm in commission of a felony, according to ABC 7 News. His next court date is scheduled for Feb. 16.

The incident on Tuesday reportedly began when campus officers John Painter and J.J. Jefferson approached Campbell as a suspicious person. Campbell then allegedly fired at them before fleeing, initiating a large manhunt involving multiple police departments.

He was apprehended shortly before 2 p.m. after swimming onto an island in a river near the town of Bridgewater.

The school lifted its lockdown emergency at 4:33 p.m.

After the news broke, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) said his "heart is broken" by the tragedy and the loss of the two officers.

"These officers were dedicated to protecting the students and faculty of the college and I have ordered that the flags of the United States of America and the Commonwealth of Virginia be flown at half-staff tomorrow to honor their memory and courageous efforts," Youngkin said in a statement on Tuesday. "The First Lady and I ask Virginians to keep their family, friends, and the Bridgewater community in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

Story continues

A procession honoring the two slain officers is set to be held on Thursday afternoon.

Bridgewater College President David Bushman said Tuesday said the officers were best friends and known as a "dynamic duo" on campus. They were "beloved" by everyone, Bushman added.

"Two members of the Bridgewater College family were senselessly and violently taken from us. The sadness is palpable," he wrote in his statement. "Words are not adequate, not nearly so, to express the grief, sadness, fear and-justifiably-the anger we all feel.
HOUSTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Kevin Cadwell, David Clonts and Michael Reeder are pleased to announce that Lisa Thomas has been added as a name partner of the respected Houston-based trial boutique now known as Cadwell Clonts Reeder & Thomas.

"This decision allows us to recognize Lisa's success and experience as a litigation strategist and her work with our team during the past year, handling disputes in venues across the nation," says Firm co-founder Kevin Cadwell. "We were honored when she chose to join us, and Lisa is an integral member of our Firm and has changed the Firm's DNA in the time she has been with us. She is an outstanding attorney and leader for our Firm and the profession."

For the past decade Ms. Thomas has focused on intellectual property disputes with an emphasis on complex patent litigation. She has extensive trial experience, which gives her sharp insight on all phases of litigation starting from the earliest pre-suit strategy through appeals. She has successfully litigated cases in a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, chemistry, energy, and software.

"I am thrilled to put my name alongside three fantastic attorneys and behind the unique and customized services we provide for our clients, which fits the particular challenges of each case," says Ms. Thomas. "Clients are increasingly looking to firms such as ours that are experienced and aggressive, but also agile in how we approach and resolve complex cases. I look forward to continuing to grow as a firm and win cases for our clients."

Ms. Thomas earned her law degree from Southern Methodist University's Dedman School of Law in 2011 and her undergraduate degree in bioengineering from Rice University in 2005. She started her career in the Houston office of Baker Botts and joined the Firm in 2021 from the Houston office of Reed Smith LLP.

Cadwell Clonts Reeder & Thomas supports a wide range of business sectors in complex commercial disputes, intellectual property matters, and corporate transactions. Backed by previous tenures at major international law firms, the attorneys represent some of the most intriguing and promising startups, as well as Fortune 100 companies.

Media Contact:

Barry Pound

800-559-4534

[email protected]

SOURCE Cadwell Clonts Reeder & Thomas
A Jewish mother-of-two has made history by becoming the first woman in the UK appointed to a rabbinic leadership role in an Orthodox community.

Miriam Lorie, 35, has started working part-time as a 'rabbi in training' with Kehillat Nashira, a partnership minyan (prayer group that includes women to the fullest extent possible within the boundaries of Jewish law) in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire.

She is currently studying for rabbinical ordination as a long-distance student at New York's progressive Yeshivat Maharat for women - which is offering religious study and training that was once reserved exclusively for men.

Speaking about her appointment to The Jewish Chronicle, Ms Lorie said: 'It doesn't feel radical to me. It feels like a very natural progression from work I was already doing in a community which welcomes it.'

Miriam Lorie (pictured), 35, has started working part-time as a 'rabbi in training' with Kehillat Nashira, a partnership minyan (prayer group that includes women to the fullest extent possible within the boundaries of Jewish law) in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire

With Orthodox women rabbis slowly obtaining acceptance, Ms Lorie added that by the next generation, she believes it will be 'normal - that is my ardent hope.'

The Chief Rabbi and United Synagogue, which is a union of British Orthodox Jewish synagogues, don't recognise women rabbis and also don't accept partnership minyanim.

Ms Lorie, who will still attend services at her local Borehamwood and Elstree United Synagogue, graduated Cambridge University, having studied theology.

Following her studies, she spent seven years working with the Cambridge Interfaith Programme and the Woolf Institute, which is a global leader in the study of current and historical relationships between the faith-traditions of Judaism, Islam and Christianity.

She told the publication that had the Orthodox rabbinate been open to women when she was in her 20s, she wouldve trained then.

'A massive changing point', said Ms Lorie, was the story of Rabbi Dina Brawer, who was the first woman from the UK to graduate from Yeshivat Maharat four years ago.

Rabba Dr Lindsey Taylor-Guthartz graduated last year. However, The London School of Jewish Studies at first said she could no longer teach following her graduation.

Yet the school - whose president is the Chief Rabbi - back-pedalled once it had decided her role was not rabbinic and instead was academic.

Ms Lorie (pictured) is currently studying for rabbinical ordination as a long-distance student at New York's progressive Yeshivat Maharat for women - which is offering religious study and training that was once reserved exclusively for men

Ms Lorie, who in her new part-time role spends one morning a week helping the community, is in the second year of her four-year course and has sessions four days a week.

She said she has 'positive relationships with United Synagogue rabbis' and one of her desires is to start a Jewish rock choir.

Kehillat Nashira, which started in 2013, congregates in a hall for Shabbat services each month and also offers educational occasions.

Religious Jews observe Shabbat every week, beginning at nightfall on Friday and lasting until nightfall on Saturday. They refrain from travelling in cars or planes on Shabbat, apart from in life-threatening medical or security situations.

One of Kehillat Nashira members, Miriam Shaviv, told the publication that Ms Lorie 'is one of the most gifted educators of her generation. But until recently, Orthodox synagogues would have missed out on almost everything she and women like her have to offer.'
Red carpet hosts Tom Allen and AJ Odudu pose for photographers during a photo call for the 2022 British Academy Film Nominations, at Bafta Headquarters, central London, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. (Photo by Joel C Ryan/Invision/AP)

LONDON (AP)  Sci-fi epic blockbuster Dune" and Jane Campion's dark Western The Power Of The Dog lead the nominations for this year's British Academy Film Awards, with Benedict Cumberbatch, Leonardo DiCaprio and Lady Gaga among those up for leading actor awards.

Dune, starring Timothee Chalamet and Zendaya, received eleven nominations Thursday including best film, cinematography and original score. The Power of the Dog, set in 1920s Montana and starring Cumberbatch as a ranch owner, follows close behind with eight nominations, including best director and best film.

Kenneth Branaghs semi-autobiographical Belfast, which tells of a childhood in Northern Ireland during the bloody conflict known as The Troubles, was also nominated for best film and five other categories.

Branagh did not make it onto the best director list, but he said Thursday that the nominations were an amazing tribute to a remarkable part of the world. He said: We are humbly and delightfully gobsmacked!

The other two contenders for best film are Don't Look Up," the disaster comedy starring DiCaprio, and coming-of-age drama Licorice Pizza."

DiCaprio and Cumberbatch are among those nominated in the leading actor category, along with Will Smith, who received his first BAFTA nomination for his role as the father of Serena and Venus Williams in King Richard."

Cumberbatch said he was deeply humbled and grateful.

The journey to play Phil Burbank took me a long way from anything familiar to me and this recognition of that work feels like completing the circle and coming home, he said in a statement.

The leading actress list included Lady Gaga for House of Gucci, Alana Haim for Licorice Pizza and Emilia Jones for Coda.

Daniel Craig's last James Bond film, No Time to Die, and Steven Spielberg's West Side Story both received five nominations.

The awards organizers say they are committed to supporting new talent, and this year all the performers in the supporting actor category are first-time nominees. They include Woody Norman for Cmon Cmon, who at just 11 years old is the youngest nominee of the year, and Ariana DeBose, who plays Anita in West Side Story."

Its really humbling, and Im honored and just blown away, DeBose told The Associated Press.

In keeping with recent years, most acting nominations have gone to non-British performers.

The annual film awards celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, and winners will be announced during a ceremony hosted by Rebel Wilson at the Royal Albert Hall in London on March 13.

Last year's ceremony was mostly carried out online, with just the hosts and presenters appearing in person.

___

Associated Press video producer Hilary Fox contributed.

___

The nominations in full: https://www.bafta.org/film/awards/2022-nominations-winners
Conakry, Guinea (PANA) - Three former Guinean ministers under ousted President Alpha Conde will soon appear before the Court of Repression of Economic Offences (CRIEF) for misappropriation of public funds and money laundering, the prosecutor of the court, Aly Toure, said on Wednesday in an interview with national television
The Biden administration is determined to eliminate combustion engine vehicles from federal fleets, and it's not thrilled that one agency might be holding it back. According to The Washington Post, the Environmental Protection Agency and White House Council on Environmental Quality have sent letters to the US Postal Service urging it to rethink a proposal to mostly buy gas-powered next-gen delivery trucks in a project worth up to $11.3 billion. The current strategy is a "lost opportunity" to more drastically reduce the carbon footprint of one of the world's largest government fleets, EPA associate policy administrator Vicki Arroyo wrote.

Only 10 percent of the USPS' new trucks would be electric under the existing proposal, and the overall effort would only improve the fleet's fuel economy by 0.4MPG. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy previously claimed the Postal Service couldn't afford more electric mail vehicles, and has argued his agency needs to focus on basic infrastructure improvements over technology. The USPS is required by law to be self-sufficient, and can't simply request government funds.

There may be an uphill battle to make any changes. DeJoy has staunchly refused to alter the purchasing plan, and the USPS rejected California officials' January 28th request for a public hearing on the plans. The service also largely ignored EPA advice when it created the analysis guiding its plan. The environmental regulator accused the USPS of using "biased" estimates that preferred gas-based trucks. The mail institution reportedly assumed battery and gas prices would remain static even decades later, and that the existing charging infrastructure wouldn't grow. It further overestimated the emissions from plug-in vehicles, according to the EPA.

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The Postal Service might be forced to change regardless. The EPA has the option of referring its disagreements to the White House Council on Environmental Quality, which can mediate disputes like this. The letters gave the USPS a last chance to voluntarily rethink its proposal before the Council stepped in, sources for The Post claimed. Environmental groups are also likely to sue if the gas-centric plan moves ahead, and the law firm Earthjustice told The Post the USPS might lose when its proposal often lacks supporting evidence. You may well see a transition toward mail-carrying EVs, even if the transition is particularly messy.
On 20 January, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) issued its final order in an alleged case of cartelization involving four Japanese shipping firms, asking them to desist from avoiding competition with each other. Mint takes a close look at the context and implications

What is the case about?

When rivals in shipping industry form cartels, it poses a headache for regulators the world over, since price fixing among rivals is hard to prove. Hence, the law offers incentives for cartel members to turn whistle-blowers in return for leniency if they give full disclosure and cooperate with the probe. In 2014, Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line), one of the four firms involved in this case, reported the cartel to the commission and sought lower penalty, triggering a full investigation. The final order established the cartels existence, issued a cease and desist order and offered lesser penalty in the case of three of them.

What constituted cartel in this case?

Here, the shipping firms were offering transportation service to vehicle makers from India to select overseas markets via certain routes, details of which were kept under wraps in the final order. CCI said there was an agreement among the shipping firms to avoid competition with one another, and that they had multilateral and bilateral contacts with one another to share commercially sensitive information including freight rates. In response to queries from Mint, NYK said it accepted the order, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd didnt offer a comment, and Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha Ltd said it will weigh next course of action after final notice.

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What is the penalty for cartelization?

The Competition Act calls for a penalty on each member of the cartel, which is up to three times its profit for each year of anti-competitive behaviour, or 10% of turnover for each year of its continuance, whichever is higher. However, in case of a leniency petition, CCI can waive penalty depending on the timing and usefulness of the disclosure and full cooperation in the probe.

What did the regulator order?

CCI ordered 38 crore penalty on NYK Line, but gave full waiver as it was the first to report the cartel. Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha was asked to pay over 24 crore without any waiver, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines was to pay over 24 crore but got a 50% penalty waiver, while Nissan Motor Car Carrier got a 30% waiver on its close to 41 crore penalty. NYK said in a statement to Mint that it was exempted from the payment of any penalties because of its complete cooperation with the probe, which was positively valued by CCI.

Why is the order significant?

Merchandise exporters have been complaining about rising freight rates for some time now. The surge in ocean freight cost has a direct impact on exporters competitive-ness in world markets. The central bank said in a report that freight rates moderated across routes in December 2021, but they still remained above their pre-pandemic levels. In a sector that is known for cartelization, regulatory action for alleged anti-competitive behaviour and transparency in pricing would augur well for user industries like exporters.

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The U.S. nursing industry, already strained by the ongoing pandemic, is struggling with staffing as the country continues to deal with a wave of hospitalizations and deaths caused by the Omicron version of the coronavirus.

I still think we have critical nursing shortages across the country, Dr. Elizabeth Clayborne, an emergency physician at the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center, said on Yahoo Finance Live (video above). And that is something that needs to be addressed not just in Maryland, but in several states. And I see that being a problem for several months to come.

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan implemented drive-through COVID testing, which helped lessen the number of patients going to emergency departments to get tested. But actions like these can only do so much for an industry that still doesn't have enough nurses to go around.

The main issue that were battling in my facility and several hospitals across the country is just a staffing shortage, Clayborne said. My family and I actually just recently recovered from COVID. So its not an uncommon story that a lot of our facilities that are trying to take care of COVID patients are struggling because they do not have the staff to deal with the numbers that are still coming in.

And while hospitalizations related to COVID-19 are ebbing nationally, states  especially those with lower-than-average vaccination rates  saw major surges in hospitalizations during the winter. ICUs are currently at 30% or less capacity in all but five states.

For hospitals lacking the staff and ICU capacity to treat the influx of patients, the labor crunch can have dire consequences for all kinds of patients.

"For every additional patient a nurse cares for, a patient's risk of dying increases by as much as 7%," a New Jersey-based nurse, who requested anonymity to speak candidly, told Yahoo Finance. "The average person may not think this is important, but when you have an unexpected emergency and end up in the ER, how many other patients do you want your nurse to have? 2 or 6?"

Story continues

In September 2021, the American Nurses Association penned a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra calling on the administration to "declare a national nurse staffing crisis and take immediate steps to develop and implement both short- and long-term solutions."

A study by the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences noted that "1.2 million new registered nurses (RNs) will be needed by 2030 to address the current shortage." The shortage, which was brewing prior to the pandemic, involved factors including rising demand driven by aging Baby Boomers, retirement among nurses, lack of staff in certain areas of the country, hospital conditions, burnout, and more.

This isnt the first time weve had a nursing shortage in the U.S., Donna Havens, Connelly Endowed dean and professor at the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing at Villanova University, told Yahoo Finance. It seems to be cyclical, maybe every 8-10 years. So yet again, were facing a major nursing shortage but a real issue I believe might be COVID because the nurses are getting sick. Theyre retiring anyhow, but theyre sick. They dont want to do this anymore. Theyre feeling theyre too old to do this.

The number of registered nurses available by state as of May 2021. (Map: University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences)

'Shortage of nurses willing to work in unsafe conditions'

Zenei Cortez, a nurse based out of California and president of National Nurses United, described the situation as a staffing crisis and placed the responsibility on hospitals.

There is not a shortage crisis but there is a staffing crisis, Cortez told Yahoo Finance. There was no real serious nursing staffing crisis before COVID-19, but as a hospital industry, it unfortunately created a staffing crisis, which isnt new and it has existed for many decades. I would say what they call a shortage of nurses is a shortage of nurses willing to work in unsafe working conditions.

Recent guidance from the CDC has only worsened the problem. According to new guidelines, health care workers who are fully vaccinated and test positive can return to the workplace if theyre asymptomatic or have had mild/moderate symptoms for 5 days with or without a negative test. Though the likely intention was to help with staffing issues, it was met with poor reception from health care workers worried about working in potentially dangerous environments.

The NJ-based nurse lambasted the CDC policy as "very unwise."

CDC guidelines for health care workers returning to work. (Chart: CDC)

"Infection control policies will not even let nurses drink water at their desk during their 12-hour shift, but it's okay for a co-worker to be COVID-positive and eat next to me in the break room?" the nurse said. "There is no separate break room for those who are COVID-positive. Should these nurses be not allowed to eat or drink on their 12-hour shift? I find it extremely dangerous and, frankly, offensive that the Center for Disease Control cares so little about controlling the spread of COVID in health care workers."

Cortez described the current circumstances with the Omicron variant as similar to when the pandemic first hit the U.S. in early 2020 when hospitals were short on PPE and staff found that there weren't enough of them to go around to help their patients.

We were fighting for staffing," she said. "We were fighting for a lot just to stay alive in the workplace and keep our patients safe. So its somewhat like the same thing is happening again."

During the first wave of the virus, health care workers across the country found themselves in less than desired work settings. PPE was in short supply, meaning that some hospital workers had to come up with their own solutions, like using trash bags as makeshift protective wear.

I hate to use the word danger, but its like reliving what it was like at the beginning of the pandemic, Cortez said. Unfortunately, the hospital industry did not prepare. They were just using I would say bandaid solutions, not really planning ahead. So its really distressing that they would do this and not really prepare for whats coming up ahead.

Theresa Ogunjimi, a registered nurse, rests for a moment inside a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) unit at United Memorial Medical Center, as the United States nears 300,000 COVID-19 deaths, in Houston, Texas, U.S., December 12, 2020. REUTERS/Callaghan O'Hare

Staffing ratios aren't federally mandated, but National Nurses United has lobbied for that to change. The union has proposed legislation that would keep the ratio at one nurse for every two patients in an ICU and one nurse for every three patients in an emergency room.

"Hospitals are unwilling to give raises to nurses to retain them and instead hire travel nurses to fill short-term contracts," the NJ-based nurse said. "However, a travel nurse will never be able to provide the same level of care that a staff nurse that knows the hospital and providers can. As a staff nurse, it is extremely disheartening to work next to someone who is doing the exact same job as you but making 3 to 4 times as much as you. And you as the staff nurse have to train the travel nurse and orient them to the facility, as well as help them on a day-to-day basis because they do not know the facility as well as you do. Hospital administrators are putting profits before patient safety, and patients will suffer as a result."

The nurse added that "the only thing keeping most staff nurses at their jobs is that they are close to retirement or they do not yet have enough experience to become a travel nurse. This means that the hospital spends thousands of dollars training new graduate nurses just to lose them to travel contracts as soon as that nurse has enough experience to leave. It makes no fiscal sense, and it is a huge burden on the staff nurses to constantly be training new nurses just to have them leave, whether they be new grads or travelers."

Amy Downer, an operating room nurse at Maine Medical Center joins fellow nurses to demand increased protections in their work environments. (Photo by Derek Davis/Portland Press Herald via Getty Images)

'You've got an aging nursing workforce'

Demographics of the workforce are also an important factor.

As many nurses age out of the industry, some become the patients themselves, meaning they are even more people that need to be taken care of.

Nurses are getting older, Havens, the nursing professor at Villanova, told Yahoo Finance. I think the stats tell us that the average nurse taking care of patients in a hospital is about 50 years of age. And you think about the work that they do  the lifting, the pulling the weekends, the nights, the triple shifts. Youve got an aging nursing workforce, many of whom had planned on retiring now when COVID hit.

According to the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, "between 2000 and 2018, the average age of employed registered nurses increased from 42.7 to 47.9 years old. And nearly half (47.5%) of all RNs are now over the age of 50."

There are reasons for optimism in addressing the shortage: Havens said that in her program that she oversees, theres overwhelming interest in entering nursing.

We are seeing more applicants than we ever have in the history of the College of Nursing at Villanova, she said. We had 1,800 applicants last year for 100 spots. Were seeing people really want to be nurses  not just those right out of high school but those who already hold a degree in another field are coming back to become nurses.

Sauk Valley Community College nursing students work on a mannequin patient as SVCC Dean of Health Christy Vincent talks about the school's nursing program with First Lady Jill Biden during a tour of the school in Dixon, Illinois, on April 19, 2021. (Photo by Susan Walsh / POOL / AFP)

Unfortunately, though, there is also a shortage of nursing faculty to teach this growing field of prospective nurses as many are aging out as well.

Last year, I believe the number was 80,000 qualified applicants who wanted to be nurses were turned away because universities across the country didnt have enough faculty to admit them and teach them, Havens said. The faculty are getting older.

She stressed that the government needs to step in to help programs incentivize more people entering the educational field of nursing, like paying faculty more, helping to cover the cost of education, enhance laboratories, and even pay professors to teach in the clinical setting.

What research has told us all over the years is the way you organize nurses in an organization to deliver care is really important, Havens said.

Adriana Belmonte is a reporter and editor covering politics and health care policy for Yahoo Finance. You can follow her on Twitter @adrianambells and reach her at adriana@yahoofinance.com.

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An Ohio couple is suing their fertility doctor nearly 30 years after their artificial insemination, after their now-29-year-old daughter's Ancestry DNA kit revealed that another man's sperm was used for her conception.

Jeanine and John 'Mike' Harvey underwent IUI at Akron City Hospital in 1991 and were thrilled when they welcomed their daughter, Jessica, in 1992.

But for Christmas in 2020, Jessica asked for an Ancestry DNA kit, which revealed that Mike was not, in fact, her biological father.

The Harveys realized with shock that there must have been a mixup at the hospital, and eventually tracked down the stranger  another patient there  whose sperm was used to conceive Jessica.

On February 2, they filed a lawsuit against Dr. Nicholas J. Spirtos and the hospital system for medical malpractice, negligence, and lack of informed consent.

'It revealed a trauma that I never could have imagined,' Jeanine said in a press conference, according to Today. 'It has taken every ounce of power to remain strong for my family and for myself as we try to move forward. Mike is my husband, Jessica is my daughter, and there's no DNA test that will change that. But we will hold Dr. Spirtos and Summa Health accountable for this.'

Nearly 30 years ago, Jeanine and John 'Mike' Harvey used IUI to conceive their daughter, Jessica. A DNA kit Jessica got for Christmas in 2020 revealed Mike was not her father

'It revealed a trauma that I never could have imagined,' Jeanine said in a press conference

'My parents got us Ancestry DNA kits as Christmas gifts, and since then our lives have never been the same, and never will be,' said Jessica

Switched before birth? Lawsuit says a family DNA test showed a mix-up during IVF. @arobach reports. https://t.co/T56F7vHkTK  Good Morning America (@GMA) February 3, 2022

'Our goal couldn't have been clearer,' Jeanine said. 'We wanted a child who is genetically related to both of us.'

They went to Dr. Spirtos, then the Chief of the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and In Vitro Fertilization/Embryo Transfer at Akron City Hospital, for IUI.

They paid out-of-pocket for the procedure, which today can cost $300 to $1,000, according to Planned Parenthood.

Mike's sperm  which he provided the morning of the procedure  was supposed to be washed, concentrated and then put into Jeanine's uterus as she released eggs, increasing the chances of fertilization.

But somewhere in the process, they claim, Mike's sperm got swapped with sperm belonging to another man.

'Without our knowledge, Dr. Spirtos used a stranger's sperm, instead of my husband's,' Jeanine said.

'I got pregnant and our daughter Jessica was born in 1992. Harvey girls were very rare in the family, so we were so excited. I screamed and scared the doctors half to death when she was born.'

Mike's sperm - which he provided the morning of the procedure - was supposed to be washed, concentrated and then put into Jeanine's uterus as she released eggs for the IUI procedure

The couple was thrilled when they welcomed Jessica, who has 'always been very passionate and excited' about her Italian heritage through her father

The Harveys were none the wiser over the next three decades, and say that Jessica embraced her Italian heritage through her father's side.

'I've always been very passionate and excited about my heritage, my ancestors, ho we got to America,' Jessica told Good Morning America.

According to the Daily Beast, Jessica even learned to speak Italian in high school and practiced with her grandmother.

During the pandemic, Jessica and her husband were planning a trip to Italy and asked for Ancestry DNA tests ahead of their trip.

They received them for Christmas in 2020.

'How cool, we thought, it would be to connect with distant relatives in the countries that we might be visiting,' Jessica said at the press conference.

'My parents got us Ancestry DNA kits as Christmas gifts, and since then our lives have never been the same, and never will be.'

Mike said the ordeal has been 'like waking up in someone elses life'

First, she was struck by her ancestral background, which included Irish, German, English, Welsh, and French  but no Italian.

Then she realized that the test revealed that Mike was not Jessica's biological father, a revelation that has been devastating for everyone involved.

'We can no longer share our private Italian jokes and enjoy our little Italian get togethers, it's just too painful for her,' Jeanine said. 'Her heritage has literally been stripped away from her.'

In disbelief, the Harveys confirmed the results with another genetic testing company, and she and her father also did paternity testing.

Mike said the ordeal has been 'like waking up in someone elses life.'

'As a husband and a father, its extremely difficult to watch your family in pain,' he said. 'Learning that your entire reality isnt what you believed it to be is hard to explain.'

This week, they filed suit against Dr. Spirtos and Summa Health Sytems for medical malpractice, battery, lack of informed consent, negligence, and 'the failed safeguarding of genetic material.

In addition to seeking financial compensation, Jessica said she wants to 'inflict some serious change'

In addition to seeking financial compensation, Jessica said she wants to 'inflict some serious change.'

'Regulations have to change. The training... Something has to change. This can't be happening in 2022. We can't be having this issue,' she said.

'I know that we are not alone in our pain. So many other families have gone through the same kind of unimaginable circumstances, have been forced to put the pieces of their lives back together,' she added.

They are suing the hospital system where the procedure was performed, as well as their doctor, Dr. Nicholas J. Spirtos (pictured)

'It's not fair to them, just like it's not fair to my family and I... This has to stop.'

Adam Wolf, one of their attorneys, said: 'You can't go back in time and change things. All you can do at this point is demand accountability and demand regulation and oversight so we don't have more people in the Harvey's situation.'

Summa Health, the hospital system which includes Akron City Hospital, has released a statement responding to the suit.

'We are aware of an allegation that has been made claiming in 1991 a patient was artificially inseminated with the semen from a person who is not her husband,' Mike Bernstein, System Director of Corporate Communications, said.

'We take this allegation seriously and understand the impact this has on the family. At this point, we have not met with the family or conducted testing of our own.

'Given the very limited information that we have and the amount of time that has passed, it remains our hope that the attorneys representing the family will work with us to make that next step a priority.'

Since taking the DNA tests, Jessica has tracked down her biological father, who is named as 'Mr. Barrett' in the suit. He and his ex-wife had also been fertility patients at the clinic around the same time, though they never conceived a child.

'We take this allegation seriously and understand the impact this has on the family.... We have not [yet] met with the family or conducted testing of our own,' a hospital spokesperson said

Jessica has since tracked down her biological father, who was trying to conceive with his now-ex-wife at the clinic around the same time

Jessica said it took quite a bit of sleuthing to find him. She sent messages to DNA relatives on Ancestry 'probably hundreds of times for several months until I started narrowing everything down.'

After connecting with Mr. Barrett online, Jessica spoke to him on the phone, where she shared her suspicions.

'I said, "I don't want to surprise you, but I think you might be my biological father." And his exact words were: "I'm not scared. This is great news. I have gone my entire life thinking I have no children, and this is great news. I have a daughter,"' she said.

They took DNA tests, which showed with 99.99% certainty that he was her biological father.

'He has been absolutely supportive,' Jessica added. 'He's helped me with any questions I've had. He's already given me some of the medical history on his side of the family to make me feel more comfortable about my new sense of life. He's been more than helpful.'

Still, Jessica said that the ordeal has been an incredibly difficult one.

'Truly there are no words to describe and express what I have been through and what my parents have been through,' she said, according to WJW.
Limerick City and County Council has confirmed the ceremony to award the 'Freedom of Limerick' on health campaigner Vicky Phelan will be live-streamed online later today.

Vicky, who is originally from Mooncoin in Kilkenny, is being honoured for her work in uncovering the CervicalCheck scandal and her tireless advocacy and support of other women who have been affected and are fighting for justice, as well as advocating for the rights of terminally ill people to end their suffering.

The Freedom of Limerick is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon an individual by the local authority and is reserved for those who have made exceptional or unique contributions to the common good or to persons who have made outstanding contributions to the life of Limerick.

Commenting ahead of today's ceremony, Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Daniel Butler said: Vicky Phelan is an inspiration to all of us. She is a tireless fighter for women who have been effected by the Cervical Check scandal, and her work encapsulates the Freedom of Limerick, and how women should be treated. Her work has transformed the lives and saved the lives of Irish woman and helped us talk of end of life in an important way, in turn helping to make Irish society a richer and more equal.

Despite her own health, she continues to face her challenges head on with a drive and determination, that has won the love, admiration and respect of the people of Limerick, Ireland and the world," added Mayor Butler.

Today's ceremony will start at 6.30pm - click here to watch the live-stream.
Army Chief Manoj Mukund Naravane said on Thursday that the Ceasefire on Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan continues to hold as India negotiated from a position of strength. He also said that the developments on the Northern Borders adequately underscored the requirement of ready and capable forces, with an optimal component of Boots on Ground, backed by modern technology. "Ceasefire on LoC (with Pak) continues to hold as we negotiated from a position of strength.," said Naravane. India and Pakistan agreed on a ceasefire in February last year after which the incidents of cross border firing have come down significantly. The Army chief pointed out that the developments on our Northern borders adequately underscored, the requirement of ready and capable forces, with an optimal component of Boots on Ground, backed by modern technology. The remark of the chief was in the context of the ongoing military standoff with China where the Chinese Army unilaterally attempted to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Eastern Ladakh sector in 2020. The Army Chief said that it is being observed that some countries are challenging the globally accepted norms and the rule-based order. "This challenge has manifested in various forms of creeping aggression and opportunist actions, to alter the status-quo, keeping the threshold below all-out war," he added. He said that the developments in Afghanistan have brought to focus the use of proxies and non-state actors to decisive effects, adding that such actors thrive on local conditions, innovatively exploit low-cost options to devastating impact and create conditions that limit full use of sophisticated capabilities. Naravane said that the Israel-Hamas conflict last year has firmly underscored the power of Artificial Intelligence. "Recent strikes on UAE by Houthis using armed drones and missiles reflect the rapid proliferation of these disruptive technologies to a wide range of actors," he added. (ANI)
A new campaign launched this week, Vax to the Max Black Hills, is offering financial incentives for Black Hills residents to get their COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots.

An individual who gets both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine after Feb. 1 is eligible to receive a $100 gift card, and an individual who gets a COVID-19 booster after Feb. 1 is eligible for a $50 gift card. To qualify for a gift card, people can get their vaccinations and boosters at any location or provider that administers them.

Vax to the Max Black Hills gift cards will be given at the Black Hills Area Community Foundation office, 803 St. Joseph St. in Rapid City, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, or at Sturgis Public Library and Custer County Library during regular business hours. Gift cards will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointment is necessary, but individuals must bring their photo identification and completed vaccination card.

The Vax to the Max Black Hills campaign is made possible by a $16,000 donation from Dr. Roger and Janice Knutsen to the Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

COVID vaccination is your best shot at avoiding COVID-related illnesses and keeping your family, friends and neighbors safe, said Dr. Knutsen, a physician in Rapid City. This vaccine technology, which has been researched for decades, does not alter your DNA or cause infertility. Rather, it naturally causes white blood cells to make antibodies that help fight this potentially fatal virus.

In addition to urging adults to be vaccinated and boosted, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends that children ages 5 and older receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and those 12 and older who are fully vaccinated receive a booster. With the Omicron variant becoming more prevalent, Dr. Knutsen said boosters provide valuable added defense against COVID-19.

As a physician, we all want what is best for our patients. Our goal is the wellness of our patients. COVID-19 is an emergent and really potentially lethal disease, Dr. Knutsen said. The number one reason for people to get vaccinated is to protect themselves from getting severe disease. Vaccinations dramatically decrease the chances of hospitalization and death.

"To me, liberty means living without COVID-19. Vaccinations are the essential thing  to get COVID-19 under control," he said. "It's not over yet. We can't be complacent."

The Knutsens $16,000 will be added to donations from Stan Adelstein and from Dave Davis and the American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation. Together, these funds will provide more than $20,000 in gift cards, and the Knutsens hope others in the community will donate to supply even more Vax to the Max Black Hills gift cards.

Currently, 70% of South Dakotans ages 5 and older have gotten at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, according to the South Dakota Department of Health. In the Black Hills, during the first two weeks of January, residents got nearly 1,000 boosters and more than 600 first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The Vax to the Max Black Hills effort will continue until the supply of gift cards runs out, according to Chris Huber, donor relations manager at Black Hills Area Community Foundation. Huber said Wednesday morning the foundation had already distributed 16 gift cards and was receiving many calls from people who wanted more information.

Vaccination is the best means to live our lives with more freedom and less fear, Dr. Knutsen said. The vaccine is safer than many over-the-counter medications and, in fact, is available without a prescription. Your primary care physicians are standing by to answer your questions.

Anyone who has questions or concerns about being vaccinated should talk to their primary care physician. Several local physicians have made Vax to the Max Black Hills public service announcements to educate the community about COVID-19 and encourage vaccinations. To watch, go to https:/vimeo.com/bhacf.

People have to really decide who to trust. Are they going to trust someone on the internet who has no credentials, or are they going to trust (physicians) who have experience taking care of sick people and care about how infectious disease is affecting people? Dr. Knutsen said.

Dr. Knutsen said myths about the COVID-19 vaccine and false claims that products such as ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine treat COVID-19 have no scientific basis.

The disinformation out there is totally counter to scientifically based, researched, data-driven information, Knutsen said. The bottom line is the COVID-19 vaccine does not make you magnetic. It does not put a microchip into you. It is absolute nonsense about COVID-19 affecting fertility. The vaccine can change menstrual periods, but it does not impact fertility.

To make a donation to support Vax to the Max Black Hills, go to bhacf.org/give and contribute to the Black Hills Disaster Recovery Fund, or send checks payable to the Black Hills Area Community Foundation to PO Box 231, Rapid City, South Dakota 57709.
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Dr Rochelle Walensky (pictured), director of the CDC, acknowledged on Wednesday that Americans are 'anxious' to return to normal as Covid cases are down 35% over the past week. European countries like the UK, Denmark and now Sweden has laid out plans to lift all pandemic-related Covid measures

Covid cases are continuing to fall in the U.S., but as some countries in Europe begin dropping pandemic-related mandates, American officials are showing no signs of wanting to do the same.

On Thursday, Sweden joined the list of countries to lay out plans to lift all restrictions next week. With daily infections falling rapidly and deaths starting to crest in America, many are hoping the U.S. will soon follow suit as the Omicron variant-fueled surge continues to wind down.

The Nordic nation joins the UK, Norway, Denmark and Switzerland as countries that have either lifted all restrictions or set plans in place to do so in the near future.

A bombshell study was published by Johns Hopkins University on Wednesday as well, finding that Covid related lockdowns in the U.S. only dropped deaths by 0.2 percent while also having potentially disastrous effects to sectors of the American economy.

The U.S. is currently averaging 394,741 cases per day, the first time the average has dropped below 400,000 in 2022, which is a 35 percent drop over the past week.

On Wednesday, Dr Rochelle Walensky, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that she '[knows] people are anxious' to return to normal life, but that it is not yet the right time to do so. The agency was asked later in the evening by Yahoo News to clarify her comments.

'This comment was made in response to a question on if people can change their habits for gathering in groups or going to bars and restaurants. Dr. Walensky recognizes that many people are anxious to get back to these activities and no longer have COVID-19 disrupt their daily lives,' a Walensky spokesperson wrote.

During the briefing, Walensky laid out what metrics her agency is looking at to decide when it is time to start lifting mitigation efforts and declare the country past the pandemic.

'We really do have look to our hospitalization rates, and our death rates, to look to when it's time to lift some of these mitigation efforts,' she said.

According to official CDC data, 133,626 Americans are hospitalized with the virus every day - a 16 percent drop over the past two weeks. That figure is likely inflated, as well, as many Covid-positive people who are going to the hospital for other treatments are added to the tally.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that 79 percent of hospital beds in the U.S. are occupied, with 16 percent currently held by someone who is positive for the virus.

Lockdowns only reduced Covid deaths by 0.2% at 'enormous economic and social costs', study finds The original coronavirus lockdowns had 'little to no' effect on pandemic death tolls in the US, UK and Europe, a controversial report suggests. Economists who carried out a meta-analysis found draconian restrictions imposed in spring 2020  including stay-at-home orders, compulsory masks and social distancing  only reduced Covid mortality by 0.2 per cent. They warned that lockdowns caused 'enormous economic and social costs' and concluded they were 'ill-founded and should be rejected as a pandemic policy instrument' going forward. The review, led by a Johns Hopkins University professor, argued that border closures had virtually zero effect on Covid mortality, reducing deaths by just 0.1 per cent. However, closing nonessential shops was found to be the most effective intervention, leading to a 10.6 per cent drop in virus fatalities. Their report, which has not been peer-reviewed, said that this was probably due to shutting pubs and restaurants where alcohol is consumed. School closures were linked to a smaller 4.4 per cent decrease. The researchers  who deal in the field of economics, rather than medicine or public health  originally identified 18,590 global studies into lockdowns, which they claim had to be whittled down to just 24 to answer their research question. Critics have accused them of 'cherry-picking' studies to suit their narrative and have raised doubts about the biases of its authors, who have been vocal about lockdowns and vaccine mandates on social media. Most scientists believe that, before the arrival of vaccines and antivirals, lockdowns had a significant effect on cutting transmission and therefore reducing the number of hospital admissions and deaths caused by Covid. Advertisement

The final lagging indicator during a surge is the number of daily deaths. Covid deaths often trend the same way cases or hospitalizations will, but around two weeks behind. After growing over the past few weeks despite the massive declines in cases, it appears that that metric is starting to crest as well.

America is averaging 2,458 Covid deaths every day, a six percent increase from the 2,314 last week. While deaths are still trending the wrong direction, weekly growth has shrunk from around 20 percent to six percent every week. Similar trends were seen in cases before the rapid decline started in mid-January.

Near universally declining Covid figures has pushed many to ask when virus-related mandates in the country will be dropped. Around the country, a person has to wear a mask when flying on a plane or using transit services like Amtrak. Some localities have remaining regulations as well, like masking and vaccine checks for many indoor businesses in New York City. Many schools also still make children wear masks.

'Society isn't going to tolerate these things in perpetuity. The mitigation we've adopted has to be used to deal with epidemic peaks, not be a constant way of life,' Dr Scott Gottlieb, former director of the Food and Drug Administration and current board member at Pfizer, told CNBC's Squawk Box on Monday.

'We are going to have to be willing to withdraw these mitigations.'

European governments are only building pressure upon American officials by lifting measures in their own nations. Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson announced this weeks that her country would 'open' on February 9, with all pandemic related measures to be lifted soon.

'The pandemic is not over but has entered a totally new phase,' Andersson said during a news briefing Thursday morning.

Both Denmark and the UK, both nations that were struck hard and fast by the Omicron variant and the end of last year have opted to lift all pandemic related measures as well and declare the countries 'open' once again.

In the UK in particular, cases are down 14 percent over the past week, down to under 90,000 per day after peaking at over 180,000 per day in early January.

English officials are even planning on scrapping daily data collecting all together in the near future, as the figures may no longer be necessary in the nation as cases and deaths are expected to fall to extremely low numbers.

Dr Martin Makary, a professor at Johns Hopkins who was not involved in the study, warned that 'people may already have their own narrative written' about the effectiveness of lockdowns in an interview with Tucker Carlson Wednesday night.

'Johns Hopkins itself did not even put out a press release about this study, and if you look at the media coverage, it's one of the biggest stories in the world today, and yet certain media outlets have not even covered it,' Makary told the Fox News host.

JH professor blasts his college and mainstream media for not publicizing study that found Covid lockdowns only reduced deaths by 0.2% A Johns Hopkins professor slammed his university and the mainstream media for downplaying a study conducted by economists at the university that found that COVID-19 lockdowns only reduced virus deaths by 0.2 percent. Dr. Martin Makary warned that 'people may already have their own narrative written' about the effectiveness of lockdowns in an interview with Tucker Carlson Wednesday night. 'Johns Hopkins itself did not even put out a press release about this study, and if you look at the media coverage, it's one of the biggest stories in the world today, and yet certain media outlets have not even covered it,' Makary told the Fox News host. Makary is a professor of surgery at the private university in Baltimore. He was not involved in the study. Economists at the college carried out a meta-analysis and found that restrictions imposed in the spring of 2020 - including stay-at-home orders, compulsory masks and social distancing - only reduced COVID mortality by 0.2 percent. They warned that lockdowns caused 'enormous economic and social costs' and concluded that they were 'ill-founded and should be rejected as a pandemic policy instrument' going forward. The study found that lockdowns imposed in many US cities in the spring of 2020 led to a reduction of COVID deaths by 0.2 percent. 'Now compare that number, which turns out to be about 1,800 individuals, to the number of non-COVID deaths, what we call the "excess non-COVID mortality" in the United States. 'It was 124,000 excess deaths in year one. So, over two years, it was about a quarter million people who died. Many many scientists have now begun to peel back this number,' Makary said. He explained that 60,000 to 70,000 of them died from substance abuse, while others died from deferred cancer care, self harm and other side effects of lockdowns. Advertisement

Economists at the college carried out a meta-analysis and found that restrictions imposed in the spring of 2020 - including stay-at-home orders, compulsory masks and social distancing - only reduced COVID mortality by 0.2 percent.

They warned that lockdowns caused 'enormous economic and social costs' and concluded that they were 'ill-founded and should be rejected as a pandemic policy instrument' going forward.

Makary said the small number of lives saved by the lockdowns doesn't come close to those lost to lack of health care, such as patients who forwent cancer treatments.

Nearly every state in the U.S. is now recording declining Covid cases over the past two weeks, a reverse of fortune from where the country was a month ago.

'Now compare that number, which turns out to be about 1,800 individuals, to the number of non-COVID deaths, what we call the "excess non-COVID mortality" in the United States.

'It was 124,000 excess deaths in year one. So, over two years, it was about a quarter million people who died. Many many scientists have now begun to peel back this number,' Makary said.

He explained that 60,000 to 70,000 of them died from substance abuse, while others died from deferred cancer care, self harm and other side effects of lockdowns.

The surgeon also pointed out the number of children who fell behind as schooling moved online.

'There are hundreds of kids in Baltimore alone that the teachers described never logged on to their virtual learning modules, ever,' he said.

Makary criticized Johns Hopkins and the mainstream media for not publicizing the findings.

Only three states are still seeing cases trends upwards. One is Maine, with cases up 11 percent over the past two weeks. The state has a such a low infection rate - only 75 of every 100,000 residents testing positive daily - that the figure is likely to widely fluctuate.

Montana is the leader in case growth over the past two weeks, jumping 17 percent over the past two weeks. Neighboring Idaho, which is a lowly populated state with low density just like Montana, has suffered an eight percent increase in cases.

All of the other 47 U.S. states are recording declining cases as of Thursday morning. Rhode Island, which once was leading the nation in infection rate for much of mid-January, has recorded a 73 percent drop in cases over the past two weeks. Nearby New York (74 percent decrease in cases over past two weeks), Connecticut (72 percent), New Jersey (69 percent) and Massachusetts (65 percent).

The state that has experienced the largest drop in cases over the past two weeks in Wisconsin (75 percent). Like Rhode Island, the Badger state also experienced a surge of cases in January that led to it leading the country in infection rate for some time. Now, cases are sharply falling, and nearby Ohio (72 percent), Illinois (67 percent) and Michigan (44 percent) are seeing sharp drops as well.

Minnesota was among the final northwestern states to reach its Omicron peak, but cases have finally turned around in the Gopher state as well, down 15 percent over the past two weeks.

No state in America is recording more than 300 infections per every 100,000 residents, only a few weeks after multiple states were about 500. Alaska is the nation's leader, with the far-away state recording 284 cases per 100,000 residents daily. Kentucky is the only other state with more than 200 cases per every 100,000 residents, with 206 recorded.

Maryland, another state that was among those slammed early by the Omicron variant, now has the lowest infection rate in America. The state has recorded a 72 percent decrease over the past two weeks, down the 34 cases per every 100,000 residents this week. Now, 15 states are recording less than 100 daily cases per 100,000 residents.

Despite dropping cases nationwide, deaths are starting to surge in some areas. In Mississippi, one of the least vaccinated states in American with only 50 percent of residents jabbed, has had it's daily death count jump to 1.9 per every 100,000 residents - by far the highest rate in America.

Ten states, including Mississippi, are suffering more than one daily Covid death for every 100,000 residents. Many of the leaders are concentrated in the U.S. south - South Carolina (1.26 daily deaths per 100,000 residents), West Virginia (1.12), and Tennessee (1.07) - and the Midwest - Ohio (1.28), Indiana (1.15) and Missouri (1.08).
As many as 14,583 vaccine doses from Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson&Johnson were administered in the last 24 hours, of which 2,553 represent the first dose, 3,423 - the second dose and 8,607 - the third dose, Romania's National COVID-19 Vaccination Coordination Committee (CNCAV) informed on Thursday.

Of the total number of administered doses, 206 were Pfizer Pediatric.

According to the CNCAV, since the beginning of the vaccination campaign, on December 27, 2020, there have been 16,498,346 vaccine doses administered to 8,079,932 persons, 7,993,914 receiving the full scheme, 2,418,106 being immunized with the third dose, Agerpres.ro informs.

In the last 24 hours there have been 3 adverse reactions registered, one local type and two whole-body type.

In total, since the start of the vaccination campaign, there have been 19,909 adverse reactions recorded in anti-COVID vaccines, 2,183 local type and 17,726 whole-body type.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/us-russia-escalation-over-ukraine-could-propel-oil-prices-up-to-100-analysts-say-1092719455.html

US-Russia Escalation Over Ukraine Could Propel Oil Prices Up to $100, Analysts Say

US-Russia Escalation Over Ukraine Could Propel Oil Prices Up to $100, Analysts Say

Oil markets have been shaken recently by the tensions between Russia and the United States over the situation in Ukraine. The West accuses Moscow of "amassing... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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In the event of tensions between Washington and Moscow over Ukraine boiling over, oil prices could rise up to $100 per barrel, given that both Russia and the United States are among the biggest world producers of oil, oil historian Daniel Yergin told Bloomberg.According to Yergin, further escalation could trigger a panicky reaction in the market."Yergin is not the only one giving grim predictions for oil prices if the Ukraine situation gets worse. RBC Head of Global Commodities Strategy Helima Croft said, cited by CNBC, that the markets could be impacted even by a high risk of Russian "invasion," given "the stakes involved."Concerns in the West continue even though Russia has repeatedly underlined that it does not pose any threat to Ukraine. Moscow has also dismissed the "invasion" claims, pointing instead at the fact that NATO and the US have amassed troops and weapons in Eastern Europe. The Kremlin explained that this has triggered concerns in Moscow  as a result, it rolled out some security proposals to the Western countries, particularly demanding legal guarantees from NATO that it will not expand eastwards and deploy offensive weapons in Eastern Europe.US Assistant Treasury Secretary for Economic Policy Benjamin Harris earlier voiced concerns in regard to how geopolitics could affect the global efforts to stabilise energy prices, already shaken by the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic.The situation over Ukraine has hit oil markets over the past six weeks, with global oil prices increasing by 14 percent in January for the largest monthly gain since last February. Aside from this, oil prices have been on the rise in late 2020 due to the coronavirus, prompting a separate drama in OPEC+ group, with its members having hard time about deciding on output cuts.

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Turkey has consistently supported Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and is ready to work to reduce tensions in the region, including by hosting a summit at the level of the Ukrainian and Russian leaders or negotiations at the technical level, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.

He stated this at a press conference after the 10th meeting of the Ukraine-Turkey High-Level Strategic Council in Kyiv on Thursday, February 3.

"Our visit takes place during a sensitive period. I would like to reiterate that we support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, including Crimea. [] Turkey is ready to do everything possible to end the crisis between the neighboring countries [Ukraine and Russia] that are friendly [to Turkey]. Today, during the talks, I reiterated that we will be happy to host in Turkey a summit at the level of leaders or talks at the technical level. After all, Turkey is acting by logic, thinking about how to reduce the degree of tension instead of increasing it," Erdogan said.

He noted that some earlier statements and published scenarios of occupation were exhausting Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. He also praised messages from Ukrainian officials, including the president, that "common sense and dialogue come first."

Erdogan noted the special attention that Turkey pays to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine and it fully supports the mission, which has been headed by Turkish ambassadors since its inception.

"We sincerely believe that the crisis will be resolved through peaceful diplomatic methods, as part of the Minsk agreements and on the principles of Ukraine's territorial integrity and international law," Erdogan said.

Erdogan is on an official visit to Ukraine on February 3. This year, Ukraine and Turkey mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

op
The Texas grid may fail again this year, according to a local investigative journalist who this week raised the alarm about the grid's state of preparedness ahead of an Arctic weather front.

"This is not a good start. Tried checking @ERCOT_ISO dashboard about grid conditions and it's down. Tried checking hourly resource outage data, that's down too," Jeremy Rogalski from K-HOU TV tweeted on Wednesday.

He later added that he had gotten in touch with a spokesperson for the Energy Reliability Council of Texas who'd told him that the grid operator was having issues from an upgrade made back in November.

Alarm is the appropriate reaction to such news after last year, the grid failed so spectacularly that it caused massive blackouts, with some people remaining without power for several days.

The Texas Freeze of last year, as it came to be known, also knocked out power plants and oil and gas wells, causing the largest-ever oil production decline in U.S. oil history.

Following the crisis, ERCOT demonstrated that it was willing to make the effort to shore up its systems in anticipation of other cold waves. Earlier this month, the grid operator said it was ready for the next freeze. ERCOT said it had inspected all power generation and transmission facilities in the state, and all but three power plants passed the test, which makes 321 out of 324.

"The Texas electric grid is more prepared for winter operations than ever before," said the interim chief executive of ERCOT, Brad Jones, as quoted by the Houston Chronicle, last month following the inspections.

This week, as forecasts of a cold snap began coming in, ERCOT told media that it was "taking early preventative action ahead of the expected increase in demand to ensure the grid remains reliable."

"We have ordered power plants across the region to postpone planned outages and to return from outages already in progress," ERCOT also said.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
An American Islamic convert who taught Lisa Smith about the Quran and helped get her out of a women's "prison" in Syria was wanted by the FBI to face charges for supporting a terrorist organisation, the Special Criminal Court has heard.

In interviews with gardai Ms Smith, a former Irish soldier who denies membership of Islamic State, said that in March 2016 John Georgelas (aka Abu Hassan) got her out of a "madaffa" where she said she had been imprisoned for five months with 50 to 60 other women in a single house.

FBI agent Alan Goehring today, Thursday February 3rd, told prosecution counsel Sean Gillane SC that on June 14, 2016 the FBI put Georgelas on an Interpol "red alert recall notice" as he was wanted to face three charges: for providing material support to a terrorist organisation, conspiring to support a terrorist organisation, and for a crime of violence.

Agent Geohring also told the court that in 2006 Georgelas was sentenced to 34 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to accessing a protected computer to access passwords protecting the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) website.

The court previously heard from witness Tania Joya that Georgelas intended to use the passwords to damage the organisation's website.

Ms Smith (39) from Dundalk, Co Louth has pleaded not (NOT) guilty to membership of an unlawful terrorist group, Islamic State, between October 28th, 2015 and December 1st, 2019.

She has also pleaded not (NOT) guilty to financing terrorism by sending 800 in assistance, via a Western Union money transfer, to a named man on May 6th, 2015.

The trial continues in front of Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding, with Judge Gerard Griffin and Judge Cormac Dunne at the non-jury court.
Derrick Harriell (left), UM interim director of African American studies, talks with Patrick Alexander, an associate professor of English and African American studies. A new $100,000 scholarship endowment that honors Mississippi civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer will benefit students pursuing an education in African American studies. Photo by Kevin Bain/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services

Civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer is being honored with a new scholarship at the University of Mississippi thanks to a $100,000 gift to the university from an anonymous donor.

University officials said the gift would establish the Fannie Lou Hamer Scholarship Endowment, providing financial aid for students pursing degrees in African American studies, including Black history, culture and politics.

"We are truly grateful for this gift establishing a scholarship endowment in honor of the late Ms. Hamer," said Lee Cohen, dean of liberal arts at the university. "It will open doors for our students here at the University of Mississippi and provide for future generations for years to come, while commemorating past generations that laid the foundation for progress and change."

Hamer, a Mississippi Delta native, co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party in 1964. She famously spoke on about her life as a sharecropper and retaliation she suffered for trying to register to vote at the 1964 Democratic National Convention and spent several years advocating for voting rights and women's rights.

"She worked so hard for the state of Mississippi and is a folk hero," the donor told university officials. "I hope she continues to be an inspiration to students and that this scholarship can provide the financial support to help them achieve their goals."

It was not clear when scholarships from the endowment would be available to students.

Have an education-related news tip? Contact Keisha Rowe at nrowe@gannett.com, on Twitter or at (601) 760-2483.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Fannie Lou Hamer honored with new scholarship at Ole Miss
Lorena Monroe Cesarini appears on the stage of the Ariston theater on the occasion of the Sanremo songs Festival, in San Remo, Italy, Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022. A Black Italian actress said she received on-line harassment after her appearance as a guest on Italys annual Sanremo music festival was announced. Lorena Monroe Cesarini told a live and TV audience on Wednesday that evidently for someone, the color of my skin is a problem, reading some messages she received on social media. They included messages saying she didnt deserve being a guest at the music festival and that they called you because you are black, and one saying maybe they called you to wash the staircase or put the flowers in vases. (Matteo Rasero/LaPresse via AP)

MILAN (AP)  A Black Italian actress said she received online harassment for the color of her skin after it was announced she would appear as a guest at Italys annual Sanremo music festival.

Lorena Monroe Cesarini, 34, read some of the messages to the audience during Wednesday night's broadcast of the festival on RAI state television.

They invited you because you are Black, read one message that said she did not deserve to be there. She quoted another one that read: Maybe they called you to wash the staircase or water the plants.

Cesarini said it was the first time she had been the target of racism growing up in Italy, and that the messages started as soon as it was reported that she would be a guest of the festival.

Evidently for someone, the color of my skin is a problem, said the actress best known for her role in the Italian serial drama Suburra."

Cesarini, who was born in Dakar, Senegal, to a Senegalese mother and Italian father, received shouts of support from the live audience, including one who yelled, Youre Italian, to which she responded, Yes, and proud.

She told the audience that she remained perplexed by the messages: Why do people feel the necessity to write such things on social media? Why do people have a problem with the color of my skin?

Incidents of racism in Italy have drawn more attention in recent years. Both public and private Italian TV have come under fire for the persistent use of racist language and imagery, and the failure to generally represent second-generation Italians of African or Asian descent as integral to society. Black Italian designers have also been pushing for more representation in the fashion world.

Lorena and her monologue are the reason we are doing the work we are doing, said Michele Ngonmo, the head of Afro Fashion Week Milan who has been helping develop a database of Black creatives working in Italy and promoting young designers of color.

President Sergio Mattarella called racism and antisemitism intolerable aggressions during his wide-ranging remarks to lawmakers after being sworn in for an extraordinary second term on Thursday.
Idaho Public Televisions annual request for state funding goes to the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee next week and if past is prelude Big Bird and Judy Woodruff are in for another bumpy ride.

For those living in a cave or glued to the internet, Big Bird is the chief protagonist on Sesame Street, the critically acclaimed program that for decades has taught our kids and grandkids words, numbers and important life skills like kindness, respect, decency and, yes, pluralism and diversity. Woodruff hosts the PBS NewsHour, arguably the most respected and unbiased source of news on the airwaves.

That they or any of the other public television shows and personalities we have come to enjoy and depend on are now being attacked shouldnt come as a surprise. The radical rights war hawks in the Statehousepeople like Janice McGeachin, Ron Nate, Karey Hanks, Priscilla Giddings and Dorothy Moonhave been after them for years.

Hanks, who decries all government spending unless it reaches her pockets in the form of an ag subsidy, attempted to forestall consideration of the 2017 budget bill to fund equipment purchases that took IPTV out of the analog world into the digital world. Nate, Giddings and Moon labored mightily during last years session to deny all state funding, claiming IPTV promoted discussions about race and privilege and was biased against ultraconservative Republicans like them. Giddings even came up with the odious idea to tie state funding to controlspresumably her and her cohorts controlson what IPTV could and could not broadcast, apparently forgetting the First Amendments prohibition of prior restraint and her own cabals hypocrisy about a liberal cancel culture.

I can only imagine this years debate in light of the NewsHours detailed and provocative reporting about the many challenges and ills we face these days, including the rank partisanship that has oozed out of Washington and is now infecting our own efforts at enlightened self governance here in Idaho.

All of them should know better, particularly Nate, a BYU-Idaho economics professor whose ideas about public educationhe and his acolytes in the Statehouse are apparently against itare more about telling our kids what to think and less about instructing them how to think.

Idaho public television doesnt exist to indoctrinate beliefs or threaten anyones way of life. It exists to bring us knowledge, facts, beauty and wonderessential commodities to better understand and navigate the complicated world we live in. Ensuring its survival with state funding is critical to who we are and what we hope to be.

If Hanks, Nate, Giddings, Moon and the misguided misanthropes who agree with them cant understand this, they should be consigned to the garbage can with Oscar the Grouch.
French President Emmanuel Macron has announced further funding to support Christian schools in the Middle East and renewed a pledge to protect heritage sites.

With just three months to go until the elections, Macrons gesture to defend education in conflict zones has not gone unnoticed by his political rivals on the right, keen to promote the notion of protecting Western values.

"Supporting Christians of the Orient is a secular engagement by France, its a historic mission," Macron told 150 guests gathered at the Elysee Palace on Tuesday.

"It is a response to the necessity of never abandoning the battle for culture, education and dialogue in this troubled region," he went on, adding "this mission must never divide us, rather bring us together."

Based in the Middle East since the beginning of Christianity, Christians in the region have seen their population steadily decline from 20 percent before World War One to just 4 percent today, representing around 15 million people, according to the Vatican.

Macron announced that the French State would co-fund, with the organisation l'Oeuvre d'Orient, to double the current funding for schools, bringing the total to 4 million euros.

First released in January 2020, the funds have already helped 174 schools, 129 in Lebanon, 16 in Egypt, 7 in Israel, 13 in the Palestinian territories and three in Jordan throughout 2021.

Macron also took the opportunity to award the Legion of Honor award to Monsignor Pascal Gollnisch, director of the L'Oeuvre d'Orient since 2010.

"Keeping schools open today is a miracle, Sister Mariam An-Nour, director of the Saint Joseph of Beirut school told French news agency AFP, referring to the enormous challenges brought about by the economic and political crisis in Lebanon.

Macron also announced that France would renew its pledge of 30 million dollars for the International Alliance for the protection of heritage in conflict areas (Aliph), set up in 2017 in partnership with the United Arab Emirates.

Story continues

This initiative supports 150 cultural sites that have been damaged or remain under threat by conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and by the explosion in the port of Beirut in 2020.

The 'religion' of politics

The desire to show public support for Christians has been brought into the limelight by several French politicians on the right, notablly Valerie Pecresse, leader of Les Republicains party (LR), who said during a visit to Armenia that "the question of Christians in the Middle East is at the heart of our policies".

On the far-right, Eric Zemmour, known for his hardline rhetoric on Islam and immigrants said it was necessary to "defend" Western civilisation and that "the Christian world must never refuse to go to war if it came under attack."

"I would not want for us to face the same fate as Christians in the Orient," Jordan Bardella, from the far-right National Rally said, referring to the persecution and atrocities against Christians and other minorities by the Islamic State jihadist faction in the region.

Byzance at the Louvre

In a separate development during the same ceremony at the Elysee, the new director of the Louvre Museum, Laurence des Cars announced the creation of a special wing dedicated to arts of the Byzance period and Christianity in the Middle East.

Expected to open in 2025, it would regroup some 12,000 works "among the most remarkable in the world," des Cars said.
The abusive messages and disgusting jokes revealed by the investigation into Charing Cross police station show what a dismal job Met boss Cressida Dick has done at dragging some of her force into the 21st century.

This latest example of gross misconduct on her watch begs the question - is it time to for her admit defeat, step aside and let someone from outside the force - which seems as secretive and intent on blocking modernisation as the Masons - take over?

In fact, why should the Met be run by a serving police officer at all? It needs an inspirational leader with experience of running a successful business in the real world, not someone who clawed their way up through arcane titles, complicated procedural systems and a deep-rooted macho culture that hasn't changed much since Life on Mars.

If you're promoted from within the police force, haven't you had to tolerate the intolerable in the workplace to simply to move up the greasy pole of promotion?

The abusive messages and disgusting jokes revealed by the investigation into Charing Cross police station show what a dismal job Met boss Cressida Dick (pictured last week) has done at dragging some of her force into the 21st century

The Investigation into policing in Charing Cross and Westminster originally started in 2018 because of allegations that an officer had sex with a drunken woman in custody. It was expanded after dozens of officers came forward to grass on their mates.

The final report is shocking - can you imagine any other workplace in the 21st century where colleagues would think it perfectly acceptable to share jokes about bashing their partners, using knives to get easy sex and claiming they would rape or chloroform someone they fancied? Or - when on duty at the scene of a murder- use it as an opportunity to swap pictures of the female victims?

This damning report is strikingly similar to many others that have been held (following cockups, ineptitude, and bad behaviour) since Cressida Dick took charge of London policing in 2017.

As usual, the Met's idea of cleaning up nasty truths, is to offer some 'discipline' and chats with a line manager and some broader corporate brainwashing, which rarely works.

The inquiry into Charing Cross police station investigated 17 officers - two of whom were dismissed, seven resigned, four attended misconduct meetings,and two experienced 'management action'. Astonishingly, one female officer who was reprimanded, has now been promoted.

The inquiry into Charing Cross police station investigated 17 officers - two of whom were dismissed, seven resigned, four attended misconduct meetings,and two experienced 'management action'. Astonishingly, one female officer who was reprimanded, has now been promoted

These are MailOnline mock-ups of WhatsApp conversations that were published in the IOPC report. Warning: Graphic language

Further mock-ups of messages sent by a male officer during another shocking conversation on WhatsApp

It discovered that people who worked alongside these officers were scared to talk about the culture at work, afraid of being bullied.

The police always claim that officers who are found out are 'bad apples' and not typical. That might be the case, but it's clear that their work mates are extremely reluctant to come forward and grass up the bullies, misogynists and sexist brutes who wear the same uniform and do the same job. So the actions of a few tarnish the many and public trust in the police plummets.

And that's a lot of bad apples in just one local cop-shop barrel

After the appalling blunders in the Stephen Port Case - when the police failed to link the four victims (which took place over 16 months from June 2014), even though three were found in the same East End graveyard around the corner from his flat, and one was found in his doorway- an IOPC enquiry said that 17 officers should be disciplined.

No one lost their job, and five who were reprimanded have now been promoted. It seems inconceivable that anyone competent in charge of the Met would think this is satisfactory.

After much apologising to the victims' families, and with the Met accused of not taking the case seriously because of homophobic attitudes, a new inquiry into the case was announced in January 2022. It will look at better ways to link unexplained deaths, so that mistakes like the Port case never happen again.

But don't hold your breath.

Following the rape and murder of Sarah Everard in March 2021 by Wayne Couzens, a serving police officer, the police (under orders from Cressida Dick) led a ham-fisted attempt to intervene at a candle-lit vigil held on Clapham Common, dragging away and arresting four women.

An Inquiry has been launched by Dame Elish Angiolini QC to look at failures surrounding the case and how Couzens was recruited into the force.

There was further outcry when it emerged that police officers standing duty at the spot where two sisters - Bibaa Henry and Nicola Smallman - were found dead under bushes, decided to photograph the women's bodies and share the images with colleagues and the public on social media. They were subsequently jailed for 2 years and nine months, but no one in the WhatsApp group of officers who saw the photos has lost their job.

It discovered that people who worked alongside these officers were scared to talk about the culture at work, afraid of being bullied. Pictured: Janet Street-Porter

Dame Louise Casey has now been appointed by the Home Office to conduct yet another review into the culture at the Met. Cressida Dick says every officer has been spoken to about a responsible use of social media. She says the Met is 'determined to improve'.

Follwing the revelations about Charing Cross and the carefree jokes about 'rape', Dame Cressida got a public dressing down from the London Mayor, Sadiq Khan. The 90-minute meeting was said to be 'very frank.' Dame Cressida was given a two-year extension to her contract last year and Khan is desperate to remove her.

Meanwhile, Home Secretary, Priti Patel says she is thinking of ordering a Royal Commission into every aspect of policing and the criminal justice system. But the women who were trashed by the coppers at Charing Cross, the families of Stephen Port's victims, and the mum who greives for her two daughters, Babaa and Nicola, will say that's too little, too late.

Ironically, police drama is a huge draw on television. In the last couple of weeks the main channels have unveiled three shows in prime time- Trigger Point starring Vicky McClure - which has been described as Line of Bomb Duty.

Or you could put yourself through the wringer by watching Responder- starring Martin Freeman in an astonishingly anguished performance.

On BBC4 there's Hidden Assets, a clunky co-production between Ireland and Belgium. And serial killers are ratings winners too - Stephen Merchant recently starred as Stephen Port in BBC's Four Lives.

In none of these shows will you hear any dialogue that mirrors the sickening reality of how some policemen chat with their mates.

The gap between everyday life in the police force as imagined by dramatists and the reality - where coarse, sexist and homophobic attitudes are accepted as normal - couldn't be more stark.

For years, the top brass at the Metropolitan police have wrung their hands, apologised and promised they will learn. That the ingrained canteen culture will change. That they are raising standards and changing attitudes.

The Macpherson report into the murder of Stephen Lawrence described the Metropolitan police as 'institutionally racist'. Today, we can add 'institutionally sexist and homophobic' to the list.

The Home Secretary says the police are 'amazing' and the actions of a few shouldn't contaminate all officers. Just hope when your car gets pulled over, or you ask for help on a dark street late at night, that you're lucky enough to have encountered a 'good apple'.

The time for hand wringing is over. Dame Cressida, it's time to go.
According to Variety, Oscar-nominated filmmaker, Deniz Gamze Erguven will direct the feature, which will be adapted for the screen by Kirman.

Set in 1990s Europe, the story follows a young married couple, Gina (Qualley) and Duncan (Mescal), on what Duncan claims is their honeymoon, but after Gina suffers a mysterious accident, the story begins to toggle between past and present -- and POV between husband and wife -- to uncover a portrait of love's power and dangers.

As the two-hop borders across Europe, their former lives threaten to catch up with them while the truth grows more elusive, as per the logline obtained by Variety.

'Fifty Shades' star Dakota Johnson is set to produce with Ro Donnelly via their TeaTime Pictures banner, which recently debuted two features at the Sundance Film Festival. (ANI)
By Azernews

By Ayya Lmahamad

Azerbaijan and Hungary signed a number of bilateral cooperation agreements on February 3 during the 8th meeting of the joint commission on economic cooperation between the governments of Azerbaijan and Hungary in Baku.

Azerbaijan's Ecology and Natural Resources Minister Mukhtar Babayev and Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto have signed a memorandum of understanding.

Peter Szijjarto and Azerbaijan's Food Security Agency Chairman Goshgar Tahmazli signed a memorandum of understanding on food security.

The Hungarian minister and the Azerbaijan University of Languages rector, Kamal Abdullayev, signed a document on the teaching of the Hungarian language at the university.

Furthermore, Peter Szijjarto and Labour and Social Security Minister Sahil Babayev signed the protocol of the commission's 8th meeting.

Strategic partners

Stressing, during the meeting, that Azerbaijan and Hungary are strategic partners, Sahil Babayev underlined that significant steps are being taken to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

He said that the private sector plays an important role in the development of Azerbaijan-Hungary cooperation.

Babayev also thanked Hungary for taking a fair stance in the second Karabakh war.

Hungary's support

In turn, Peter Szijjarto stated that Hungary has always supported Azerbaijan's territorial integrity, recognized at the international level.

He emphasized that the relations between the two countries are constantly developing, bilateral trade ties are being strengthened.

"Many Hungarian companies work in Azerbaijan. There is a great potential for developing relations between the two countries," he said.

Export increase

Goshgar Tahmazli, chairman of the Food Safety Agency, stated that the agency, along with other state structures, is taking appropriate steps to increase Azerbaijani product exports to Hungary.

"I believe that this document [the cooperation agreement signed today] will make an important contribution to the process of simplifying import and export procedures and expanding agricultural trade between the two countries," he said.

Gas sales

On the same day, the Azerbaijan-Hungary business forum was held in Baku.

Peter Szijjarto has said that Hungary expects to start to buy gas from Azerbaijan by late 2023.

The minister expressed hope for the rapid creation of the appropriate infrastructure in Southeast Europe for Azerbaijani gas to be transported to many European countries.

The Hungarian company, which is responsible for transporting gas and generating electricity, is already negotiating with the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan, he said.

Karabakh's restoration

Szijjarto also stated that the Hungarian companies are ready to participate in the restoration of Azerbaijan's Karabakh region.

The minister noted that the Hungarian companies are ready to participate in transport, energy and agricultural projects.

Noting that seven Hungarian companies participated in the business forum last time, Szijjarto added that representatives of 24 companies have already arrived at today's business forum.

He also expressed hope that relations between Azerbaijani and Hungarian companies will continue to develop.

Opportunities for foreign investors

At the same time, Azerbaijani Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO) head Yusif Abdullayev stated that there are many opportunities for foreign investors in the country's Karabakh region.

He underlined that equal conditions have been created in the country for foreign and local investors.

"Entrepreneurs from Azerbaijan and Hungary play a significant role in the development of economic relations between the two countries," he said.

Energy cooperation

On February 2, Azerbaijan and Budapest have also discussed the current state of energy cooperation between the two countries during the second meeting of the Working Group on Energy.

Head of the ministry's department of international cooperation Orkhan Zeynalov spoke about the measures taken, since the first meeting of the working group, in terms of sharing experience and information on attracting energy investments.

He stated that the measures have been taken to implement the set objectives to explore opportunities for cooperation in the field of renewable energy and energy efficiency.

In turn, Hungarian ambassador-at-large for energy and climate Dora Zombori stated that her country attaches special importance to the development of energy cooperation with Azerbaijan. She praised the leading role of Azerbaijan in the successful implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and possible opportunities for bilateral energy cooperation.

They also discussed strengthening strategic cooperation between the two countries within the Southern Gas Corridor, natural gas transportation opportunities for Hungary, including cooperation in the transportation and distribution of LNG and CNG and the activities of Hungarian group MOL in Azerbaijan.

Issues arising from the memorandum signed between the energy regulators of the two countries, as well as cooperation in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy were discussed as well. In addition, a presentation on the potential of renewable energy in Azerbaijan and projects to realize this potential was presented.

Following the meeting, a protocol on the results of the second meeting of the Working Group on Energy was signed.

It was decided to hold the next meeting of the Working Group in Hungary.

In 2021, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Hungary was $35.1 million, with exports totaling $1.7 million and imports totaling $33.3 million.
A new Italian restaurant from the team behind The Vintage and The Wine Loft will be moving into the former Orto space this summer.

Menagerie Hospitality Group, which runs both of the South End spaces, will come into NoDa with a yet-unnamed concept that will serve modern interpretations of Italian classics.

Dan Weiss, president and founder of Menagerie Hospitality Group, told CharlotteFive that the contemporary casual spot will be accessible to visit for apps and drinks, dinner or late-night dining after a show.

Its hard not to like Italian, he said.

What to expect

The food: Naturally, there will be pasta, flatbreads and comfort-food entrees, along with a tapas menu thats probably a little off the beaten path. Gluten-free options will likely be included.

Executive chef Kyle Gaddas, whos now at the helm at The Vintage and The Wine Loft, will run the kitchen.

He loves to work with funky menus  and if there was ever a community that loves funk, its NoDa, Menagerie Group Vice President Sean Keyser said. One of the standout features will be his style.

The drinks: The bar program will be crafted by the same team behind the cocktail menu at The Vintage.

A variety of Italian and other old world wines will be included on the wine menu, along with new world wines. Youll also find a cocktail menu centered on classic Italian cocktails and a strong amaro program, plus zero-proof mocktail choices.

The energy in a restaurant is at the bar  it just seems thats always how it is. A great program hits all the angles, Weiss said.

The vibe: You can expect color and nature, and we want to honor the artful expression of NoDa and get input from local artists there, Keyser said. We want the place to reflect that in the environment, including music.

The design: Monika Nessbach at Design Bar, who worked on Menageries South End spots, will bring her eye to the new concept, making substantial changes from the Orto space.

Although chef (Paul) Verica did an amazing job with the kitchen and front of house, we definitely want to put our mark on it, Weiss said.

Outdoors: The team plans to craft an outdoor space with intentionality to take advantage of existing visual features in NoDa, including the Lynx Blue Line. The restaurant is nestled in a busy spot with neighbors that Menagerie hopes to partner with on creating a must-visit destination, including Idlewild, The Chamber by Wooden Robot, Summit Coffee and Jennis Spendid Ice Creams.

I love the idea of us contributing to the movement of people with light rail, Keyser said.

Charlottes Italian food scene

Charlotte has seen an explosion of Italian restaurants in recent years, but not all made it through COVID-19. Orto, owned by James Beard nominated chef Paul Verica, was open for less than a year. Uptown, Vapiano also closed  but it later reopened as The Bella Ciao.

The new NoDa venture also finds itself just around the corner from Ever Andalo, an Italian restaurant on its way to the space that was recently Crepe Cellar. But the team at Menagerie isnt worried.

All of us will add to what this neighborhood has to offer  great food, great vibe, great atmosphere, Weiss said.
A couple of chance turns led Tracey and John Skupny to discover their appreciation for an ancient grape, but at the time they couldnt have known that those events would lead to co-founding a Napa Valley winery.

Their St. Helena winery, Lang & Reed, evolved from a love story that began in their college years at University of Kansas, where they developed an appreciation for fine wine while working in fine dining restaurants in Lawrence, Kansas. That included the Eldridge Hotel where they both worked along with a host of other students. Johns job as wine steward meant he was buying the wine, beer and spirits for the restaurant, and learning more and more on the job.

It was a time, John said, where this group of students got into fine wine.

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Lang & Reed focuses on two varietals, Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc, It was those chance turns that drew them to Cabernet Franc, their first vintage in 1996  a prototype for what would become their signature wine was made in 1993. At the urging of their son and daughter-in-law they added Chenin Blanc in 2013.

Some 25 years from their first vintage they now have a tasting salon in St. Helena and a new tasting experience of caviar and Chenin Blanc.

It all started with Johns epiphany in 1977 that he wanted to marry Tracey, who was in Europe, and he was in Ecuador.

Three telegrams later she agreed to meet him in Luxembourg.

When he arrived at the hotel, Tracey had already decanted a bottle of a 1973 Mouton Rothschild, then a newly released special wine that John took as a good sign.

He asked her to marry him, and she said yes, but wanted to get married right away, preferably in Paris. While they waited for their marriage license to be approved they traveled.

During that time they planned to go to Burgundy, but the timing of things meant they would have to spend a night in a hotel, a cost they avoided by taking a train that traveled overnight to Bordeaux where they tasted a Cabernet Franc that would influence their lives and careers.

It would be several years until they developed their own label, and in the meantime their knowledge and appreciation of wine and the industry grew with John in sales and marketing at Vintage Wine Merchants and Clos du Val Winery, and later as general manager of Niebaum-Coppola Estate Winery; Tracey building a career at Spotteswoode.

Lang & Reed is named for their two sons  John said Skupny Wines just didnt roll off the tongue  and son Reed and his wife Megan have joined the team.

About the time the pandemic hit they learned that more space was opening up at the charming former home of Battista Salmini at 1244 Spring St. in St. Helena, where they had an office and held tastings on the back porch. They now can offer tastings in multiple areas, such as a living room, outdoor porch, and cozy dining room.
By Trend

Turkey attaches great importance to maintaining high-level relations with Azerbaijan, Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Yavuz Selim Kiran said, Trend reports.

Kiran made the remark at a meeting of the commission of the Grand National Assembly (parliament) on external relations, at which the Shusha declaration on allied relations between the two countries was approved.

Speaking on other mattersc he reminded that Azerbaijan investments in Turkey exceeded $20 billion, and Turkish investments in Azerbaijan - $12 billion, he noted.

We have signed various agreements in the military and other fields, expanded the scope of joint military exercises. Turkey sees its relations with Azerbaijan as a historical and legal responsibility," Kiran said.
Burnt kitchen items are seen in front of a wall spray-painted with the word ISIS, which stands for the Islamic State group, in Marawi City, Lanao province, in the Philippines, May 11, 2019.

Security forces have killed two Islamic State-linked militant suspects and captured two others during a clash in the southern Philippines, the military said Thursday.

The shootout broke out when government troops ran into a unit of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) while on patrol Wednesday in Lumbac, a village in the town of Balabagan in Lanao del Sur province, the militarys Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) said.

Based on the reports from the ground, Marine troops were conducting focused military operations when they chanced upon the group of Polo Alim, a Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group member, said Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., the commander of WestMinCom.

A firefight ensued after which [the] enemy withdrew, leaving behind the dead body of one of their slain comrades, he said, adding that Alim escaped but two others were caught.

The military identified the slain fighter as Saipoden Bangka Ayok and the two captured suspects as Datu Saida Abikan and Alimusa Ayon Bagol.

Alim is believed to be a commander of the DI-Maute Group, which in 2017 made up the majority of the Filipino militants who took over the southern city of Marawi during a five-month siege.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Joint Task Force Central and 6th Division, confirmed that another DI-MG member was killed during the clash.

The fleeing enemies brought along with them the remains of the other slain comrade, Uy said in a statement.

Four marines were wounded and brought to a hospital for treatment, he said. They are believed to be in a stable condition, he added.

Police operatives and marines who conducted a clearing operation said they recovered assorted weapons left behind by the militants, including high-powered rifles and a grenade launcher. They also seized war materials from a shallow bunker where the gunmen were believed to have holed up, the military said.

Meanwhile, military intelligence officials earlier told BenarNews that a few IS militants who had escaped from troops in Marawi in 2017 were in the process of rebuilding their ranks.

However, recent military victories in the field have disrupted their command structure, with the overall leader of Hatib Hajan Sawadjaans group under assault farther south on Jolo Island, officials added.

Sawadjaan himself may have been killed in a clash in 2020, but the military could not confirm his death because no body was found. Philippine officials accuse him of orchestrating a suicide bombing of a Catholic church in Jolo in 2019 that left 23 dead, including an Indonesian couple who were the bombers.

The following year, his nephew, Mundi Sawadjaan, masterminded another bombing on Jolo that left 14 dead.
Athens-Clarke County commissioners and board of education members met this week to discuss how to spend American Rescue Plan funds.

The local government currently has $35 million of the federal COVID-relief funding to spend. Mayor Kelly Girtz presented a breakdown of those funds at Mondays meeting, including $11 million for affordable housing, $7 million for youth development, an estimated $3 million to $5 million for behavioral health support, and another estimated $3 million to $5 million in homeless support, leaving the remaining $7 million in reserve.

That was only Girtzs proposal, however, and the commission is set to meet Feb. 15 to decided how to spend the money, which must be allocated by the end of 2024 and spent by the end of 2026.

The commission met with the school board to discuss the school districts needs, so that some of the funds could be used in a joint effort to support the districts goals.

We're working with the district to give money to community needs, primarily through community-based, youth-serving organizations, said Girtz.

The school district has received $75 million in federal funding, $48.5 million comprising ARP funds. Nearly $8 million has already been spent and an additional $12 million allocated.

The school district reported that a request for proposals would launch Thursday for an ARP-funded program called CCSD Connect. District officials said Monday that up to $1.3 million will be allocated for that program, designed to help the community collaborate with the school district.

District officials also outlined the three ARP funding priorities: accelerated learning, personalizing support and promoting opportunities.

The Monday meeting focused mainly on generating ideas and no decisions were made.

Commissioner Jesse Houle (who prefers the pronouns they/them) took issue with this approach, saying they thought that the meeting should discuss more specifics and address the need to move quicker.

Story continues

School board member Tawana Mattox said more discussion is needed between board members and the superintendent on spending the funds, so they are not yet ready to make a full commitment to the commission.

How much are we willing to commit to the process? At the end of the day, that's what I'm hearing. And I think that's a discussion that should be had, and because we're not prepared to deliver that tonight, said Mattox.

The school board did not present specific ideas on what it wanted to use ARP funds for, with board President LaKeisha Gantt saying that hadn't been determined.

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: ACC commission, school board discuss American Rescue Plan funding
By Trend

Filming the movie about the second Karabakh war will start in Azerbaijan in 2022, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan told Trend.

According to the agency, the script is currently in development.

"The shooting of any full-length feature film requires a certain amount of time. If the film is based on real historical facts, the process becomes more serious and responsible. At present, information related to the war is being collected and processed for the script," the ministry said.
Kingstree, SC (29556)

Today

A shower is possible early. Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low near 55F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

A shower is possible early. Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low near 55F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph.
By Trend

Azerbaijani military serviceman, Sergeant Jeyhun Nabatalizade, died on February 3 in the military unit of the State Border Service of Azerbaijan (SBS), located in Yevlakh city, in non-combat conditions, the SBS told Trend.

Senior officials of the border service were sent to the place of the incident.

"Together with employees of the prosecutor's office, investigative measures are being carried out at the scene," added the SBS.
By Trend

Azerbaijan and Russia discussed the issues of timely and prompt solutions to problems arising in international cargo transportation, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Digital Development and Transport told Trend.

According to the ministry, during a video conference, the Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan Rahman Hummatov discussed the issues of cargo transportation by road, sea, rail, and air, as well as digitalization and simplification of border procedures with the Russian Deputy Minister of Transport Dmitry Zverev.

"The parties agreed to consider existing problems for their further resolution and joint implementation of relevant work," the ministry said.

"The high level of joint cooperation within the framework of international transport corridors, in which our countries are participants, the importance of continuing the development of relations both in bilateral and multilateral formats was also emphasized," added the ministry.

Following the online meeting, the parties signed the respective protocol.
West African leaders on Thurday decided against toughening sanctions against Burkina Faso after it became the region's latest country to be hit by a coup, opting instead to demand a timetable for a swift return to civilian rule, a source at an emergency summit said.

On January 24, Burkina became the third member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to have an elected president toppled by the military in the last two years.

The spate began with Mali, where a coup in August 2020 was followed by a second in May 2021, and then Guinea, where elected president Alpha Conde was ousted last September.

ECOWAS called an emergency summit in Accra to see whether Burkina should join the other two for trade and other sanctions, as well as suspension.

But leaders decided against this for the time being, after hearing the outcome of talks with the junta, said a summit participant.

"We are going to ask the Burkinabe authorities to propose a clear and fast timetable for restoring constitutional order," the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"There are no new sanctions against Burkina Faso."

'Good sign'

A diplomatic team led by Ghana's foreign minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, reported positive signs after meeting in Ouagadougou with strongman Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and other junta members.

"They seemed very open to the suggestions and proposals that we made. For us it's a good sign," she said.

The talks were attended by the UN's special representative for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Mahamat Saleh Annadif, who described a "very frank exchange".

The delegation also met ousted president Roch Marc Christian Kabore, whose wellbeing and demands for release from house arrest are major issues, at his Ouagadougou villa.

During their visit, the junta declared it had restored the constitution, which it had swiftly suspended following the coup, and named Damiba as president and head of the armed forces during a transition period.

Burkina junta leader Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba. By - (Radiodiffusion TAlAvision du Burkina/AFP)

And on the eve of the summit, the junta also lifted a nationwide 9:00 pm to 5:00 pm curfew.

But the duration of the transition period and other key questions have not been detailed.

After seizing power, the junta vowed on January 24 to re-establish "constitutional order" within a "reasonable time".

ECOWAS imposed measures against Mali and Guinea for perceived foot-dragging over spelling out or upholding pledges for holding elections.

These have included the closure of borders by bloc members, an embargo on trade and financial transactions and sanctions against individuals.

The sanctions have ratcheted up economic pressure, although there is no sign yet that this has translated into political action.

Fragile states

In deciding whether to impose sanctions, ECOWAS leaders have to balance the credibility of their organisation against the fragility of some of their states, especially in the Sahel.

Adding to the region's turmoil was a gun attack on Tuesday on the president of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embalo, stoking fears that years of efforts to steer West Africa towards stability and democracy are failing.

"We have to think about these coups, despite the sanctions which we impose," Senegalese President Macky Sall said at the summit, in remarks quoted by one of his aides.

Kabore, like his former counterpart in Mali, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, was toppled by disgruntled officers on the back of public protests at the handling of a jihadist insurgency.

Burkina Faso. By (AFP)

Both countries are in the throes of a nearly decade-old jihadist emergency that has claimed thousands of lives and forced at least one and a half million people from their homes.

Escalating political friction with the junta in Mali has driven Bamako closer to the Kremlin and cast a shadow over France's anti-jihadist mission in the country.

On Wednesday, the Malian government warned of the risk of sanctions triggering a wider crisis, saying the restrictions imposed on it in January by ECOWAS prevented it from honouring its latest bond payments.

In a statement that sought to reassure investors, the junta said it had the necessary funds in its coffers but the regional issuing bank, the Central Bank of West African States, had refused to allow the payment.

The payment is related to two bonds amounting to around 2.6 billion CFA francs (around $4.5 million, four million euros), launched by Mali on the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) market, the statement said.
Greenland Technologies Chooses Cyngn to Bring Autonomous Vehicle Technology to Their Fleet of Lithium-Powered Electric Forklifts

MENLO PARK, Calif. & EAST WINDSOR, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cyngn , a developer of autonomous vehicle solutions for industrial fleets, and Greenland Technologies Holding Corporation (Greenland), a technology developer and manufacturer of electric industrial vehicles and drivetrain systems for material handling machinery and vehicles, today announced they are embarking on a strategic partnership whereby Cyngn will bring its self-driving vehicle capabilities to Greenland forklifts with its proprietary Enterprise Autonomy Suite (EAS). Integration of EAS will enable Greenland forklifts to switch easily between fully autonomous, manual, and remotely-controlled modes. Organizations that run Cyngns autonomous vehicle technology also gain access to a breadth of analytics and software tools to generate operational insights and optimizations.

Currently, there are over 850,000 forklifts operating in the United States alone, stated Lior Tal, Cyngns Chairman and CEO. Greenland is a recognized leader in the electric industrial vehicle and equipment space, and this partnership provides an important opportunity to bring self-driving capabilities to this widely-used and ubiquitous vehicle type.

Raymond Wang, CEO of Greenland, added, This partnership is another major development as we execute on our plans to bring the most innovative technology to our customers. Autonomous forklifts will not only make it easier for our customers to get work done and provide them with data that has never been available before, but the technology will also help them achieve their environmental sustainability goals by operating vehicles more efficiently.

Greenlands GEF Electric Lithium Forklifts are designed with varying rated load capabilities and suited for a wide range of applications, including logistics, warehousing, manufacturing and more. In the months ahead, Cyngn and Greenland plan to bring self-driving capabilities to Greenlands other vehicles: the electric loader and the electric excavator.

About Cyngn

Cyngn is an autonomous vehicle technology company that is focused on addressing industrial uses for autonomous vehicles. Cyngn believes that technological innovation is needed to enable the adoption of autonomous industrial vehicles that will address the substantial industry challenges that exist today. These challenges include labor shortages, lagging technological advancements from incumbents, and high upfront investment requirements. Cyngn addresses these challenges with its Enterprise Autonomy Suite, which includes DriveMod (modular industrial vehicle autonomous driving software), Cyngn Insight (customer-facing software suite for monitoring/managing AV fleets and aggregating/analyzing data), and Cyngn Evolve (internal toolkit that enables Cyngn to leverage data from the field for artificial intelligence, simulation, and modeling).

To learn more, please visit https://cyngn.com/.

About Greenland Technologies

Greenland Technologies Holding Corporation is a developer and a manufacturer of drivetrain systems for material handling machineries and electric vehicles, as well as electric industrial vehicles. For more information visit www.gtec-tech.com.
Georgetown, Texas. Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Most Texans will never forget last year's historic winter storm that paralyzed much of the state and set numerous record-low temperatures. But a Texas A&M University expert says that in any given year, there is only about a 2 percent chance of such a storm occurring.

John Nielsen-Gammon, state climatologist and regents professor at Texas A&M, said there were a series of events that led to the devastating winter storm that plunged temperatures below 0 in several areas, resulted in the deaths of 246 people and caused almost $200 billion in damages in one of the worst natural disasters in Texas history.

First, he said the wind patterns in the upper atmosphere went through a disturbed phase, which happens from time to time in most winters. Then, the jet stream polar vortex moved southward into southern Canada and stayed there for a while.

"Finally, the jet stream coming from the Pacific Ocean dipped southward, allowing low-level cold air to plunge from beneath the polar vortex into the central and southern United States," he said. "For several days, we ended up with long-lasting cold in addition to intense cold. On top of that, there were two or three winter storms that blew through while the cold air was in place, including Winter Storm Uri."

He said the winter storm coming tonight and tomorrow will cause problems, but Texans will be helped by the fact that temperatures won't be as bitterly cold as they were during Uri.

"We usually only get such cold winter storms only a few times every century. There's only about a 2 percent chance every year of it occurring," he said.

He added that looking at the range of low temperatures, Winter Storm Uri was in the top five of all-time Texas cold events.

"December 1989 was more intense but fairly short," he said. "December 1983 was less intense but was colder for longer. And February 1899 was worse by just about any standard."

Extreme cold events have become less common in recent years, partly due to climate change, Nielsen-Gammon's research team has found. This makes February 2021's event even more unusual considering that it happened amid overall warmer temperatures, he said.

"I think it was partly luck that we went about three decades without really cold temperatures across the state," he said. "In Texas's historical record, very cold weather was much more common until the 1990s."

Nielsen-Gammon warned last year that cold weather in mid-February would be colder than anything Texans have experienced in the last 30 years. At the time, the consequences of the freezing temperatures were unknown.

"Now, we know at least some of the possible consequences," he said. "Since then, steps have been taken to make our electrical power system more resilient. Whether they work or not, at least we all now have a better sense of the complications that can arise with extreme cold, and we can be ready for them."

Explore further December in Texas hottest on record in more than 130 years
Giving expectant mothers sugar-free chewing gum could help them have healthier babies, a study suggests.

A trial in Malawi found pregnant women who chewed gum for 20 minutes a day had a lower chance of premature birth or low birth weight than their peers.

The study, led by US experts, prescribed chewing gum containing xylitol, a trendy sugar substitute often sold in health shops in the UK that promotes oral hygiene.

Researchers found only 12.6 per cent of pregnant women given the gum had a late premature births, compared to 16.5 per cent in a control group.

This equates to about a 25 per cent reduction in the incidence of premature births between the groups. A late premature baby is defined are those born between 34 and 37 weeks gestation.

Incidents of low birth weight, defined as a newborn weighing 5.5lbs or under, also fell in chewing gum group, with only 8.9 per cent of babies born underweight.

In comparison, 12.9 per cent of babies born to mothers without chewing gum were underweight.

The authors of the study hailed the results as demonstrating the impact of a relatively inexpensive measure to improve maternal health.

They believe chewing the gum helped keep the women's mouths clean. Additionally, xylitol has been shown to also help improve oral hygiene by inhibiting the growth of teeth damaging bacteria.

Women with bad teeth and gums are at higher risk of inflammation elsewhere in the body, which has been linked to problems in pregnancy.

Good oral health is considered a key part of pregnant women's well-being, which is why in the UK expectant mothers are entitled to free NHS dental care.

A trial in Malawi found provided expectant mothers with sugar-free chewing helped reduce incidences of premature birth and newborn babies being underweight by improving pregnant women's oral health

The study was conducted over a decade and involved over 10,000 women.

Children born prematurely, as well as all babies born with a low birth weight, are at increased risk of developing major illness throughout their lives.

Lead author of the new research, Professor Kjersti Aagaard, an expert in maternal health from the Texas Childrens and Baylor College of Medicine, said it was exciting that a relatively low cost intervention could provide such result.

'Whats unique about our study is that we used a readily available, inexpensive, and palatable means to reduce the risk of a baby being born too soon or too small,' she said.

EXPLAINED: PREMATURE BIRTH AND ITS RISKS TO BABIES Around 10 per cent of all pregnancies worldwide result in premature labour - defined as a delivery before 37 weeks. When this happens, not all of the baby's organs, including the heart and lungs, will have developed. They can also be underweight and smaller. Tommy's, a charity in the UK, says this can mean preemies 'are not ready for life outside the womb'. Premature birth is the largest cause of neonatal mortality in the US and the UK, according to figures. Babies born early account for around 1,500 deaths each year in the UK. In the US, premature birth and its complications account for 17 per cent of infant deaths. Babies born prematurely are often whisked away to neonatal intensive care units, where they are looked after around-the-clock. What are the chances of survival? Less than 22 weeks is close to zero chance of survival

22 weeks is around 10%

24 weeks is around 60%

27 weeks is around 89%

31 weeks is around 95%

34 weeks is equivalent to a baby born at full term Advertisement

'This fits with longstanding evidence linking oral health with preterm births.'

Numerous studies have linked poor oral health with premature births, though the exact reasons for this are unclear.

Some scientists suspect that bacteria in plaque can travel to the placenta via the bloodstream, causing it to became inflamed.

This may disrupt the amniotic sac that surrounds the foetus, leading it to rupture too soon, scientists believe.

Sugar-free chewing gum helps improve oral health by encouraging the mouth to produce saliva.

This helps counteract the tooth damaging acid released by plaque, a sticky substance containing bacteria that feeds on the sugar left behind by consuming food and drink.

The latest study recruited 10,069 women through eight health centres in Malawi, who signed up either before they became pregnant or within 20 weeks of conception.

Of this cohort, 9,670 were able to fully participate, with their maternal health monitored by researchers individually for six years.

Roughly half were provided with a supply of xylitol chewing gum and instructed to chew the gum for at least 10 minutes per day, but preferably twice a day, throughout their pregnancy. The other half of the trial group were not were not given the gum and acted as a control a control.

Xylitol is a sugar substitute extracted from various fruit and vegetables and is commonly used as an alternative sweetener in a variety of products.

The researchers, who presented their findings at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine's annual meeting, said their next step is to replicate the study in other parts of the world.

This will enable them to determine if providing sugar free chewing gum can provide similar benefits in countries like the US and UK which have better oral health services than Malawi.

The African country has the highest premature birth rates in the world with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating there are 18.1 babies born too soon per 100 births.

In comparison, there an estimated eight premature babies per 100 births in the UK and 12 per 100 in the US.

On a global scale the WHO estimated 15 million babies are born prematurely or preterm every year, about one in every 10 births worldwide.

A full copy of the study was not provided before the annual meeting.
Discussion is underway about potentially installing a Narcan dispenser in the Village Hall entry of the Village of Walworth government office.

The installation of the dispenser, a NaloxBox, will be up for approval at the Monday, February 14 Village Board Meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m.

Narcan, also known as Naloxone, is a nasal spray solution that can be given to people who have either had or may have had an opioid overdose to potentially save their lives.

The Narcan spray would be in CPR masks and accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week if the board approves it, according to Walworth Police Chief Ryan Milligan.

Its to assist anyone with an opioid overdose, he said. Its not necessarily just drug abuse related, it can be an accidental overdose, prescription drug related or anything.

Walworth County Public Health issued a public health alert back in late January due to an increase in drug-involved overdoses. According to the previous report, from Jan. 9 to Jan. 15, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services identified four reports of suspected opioid drug overdoses in Walworth County.

I have used it (Narcan) a handful of times myself on people, Milligan said. Any time you can save a life it is what we are aiming to do. One time is too many and to save one life would be good.
Scientists have developed a novel cancer therapy that uses an MRI scanner to guide a magnetic seed through the brain to heat and destroy tumors.

The therapy, demonstrated by scientists at University College London (London, UK), in mice, is called minimally invasive image-guided ablation or MINIMA and comprises a ferromagnetic thermoseed navigated to a tumor using magnetic propulsion gradients generated by an MRI scanner, before being remotely heated to kill nearby cancer cells. The researchers say their findings establish proof-of-concept for precise and effective treatment of hard-to-reach glioblastoma, along with other cancers such as prostate, that could benefit from less invasive therapies.

In the study, the UCL team demonstrated the three key components of MINIMA to a high level of accuracy: precise seed imaging; navigation through brain tissue using a tailored MRI system, tracked to within 0.3 mm accuracy; and eradicating the tumor by heating it in a mouse model. Ferromagnetic thermoseeds are spherical in shape, 2 mm in size and are made of a metal alloy; they are implanted superficially into tissue before being navigated to the cancer. MRI scanners are readily available in hospitals around the world and are pivotal in the diagnosis of diseases such as cancer. The work at UCL shows that MINIMA has the potential to elevate an MRI scanner from a diagnostic device to a therapeutic platform.

MINIMA is a new MRI-guided therapy that has the potential to avoid traditional side effects by precisely treating the tumor without harming healthy tissues, said senior author, Professor Mark Lythgoe (UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging). Because the heating seed is magnetic, the magnetic fields in the MRI scanner can be used to remotely steer the seed through tissue to the tumor. Once at the tumor, the seed can then be heated, destroying the cancer cells, while causing limited damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

Using an MRI scanner to deliver a therapy in this way allows the therapeutic seed and the tumor to be imaged throughout the procedure, ensuring the treatment is delivered with precision and without having to perform open surgery, added lead author, Rebecca Baker, (UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging). This could be beneficial to patients by reducing recovery times and minimizing the chance of side effects.

Related Links:

University College London
Members of the All Nepal National Free Students Union (ANNFSU) burnt Deuba's effigy at Tri-Chandra Campus in Kathmandu as they hit the street against a recent petro hike.

The price of petroleum products has reached an all-time high in Nepal as the state-owned petroleum supplier increased the price past Tuesday midnight owing to losses incurring from the sales.

Nepal Oil Corporation announced increment in prices of Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene by 3 rupees per litre and with new adjustments, a litre of petrol in Nepal would now cost One hundred and 42, Diesel and Kerosene would cost One hundred and 25 rupees a litre.

Earlier on 14 March 2014, the NOC had hiked the fuel price to 140 rupees per litre and had remained low since then. Nepal Oil Corporation has been updating the price of petroleum after it gets the revised rate from Indian Oil Corporation every fortnight.

As per the latest release of NOC the last revised rate sent by IOC has made price adjustment by 4 rupees 92 paise per litre in Petrol, 7 rupees 24 paisa per litre in Diesel and 8 rupees 80 paise per litre in Kerosene. Likewise, aviation fuel also has become dearer by 7 rupees 48 paise. (ANI)
A House lawmaker is urging the commission tasked with scrubbing Confederate names from U.S. military bases to rename Fort Benning for Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cashe.

In a letter Wednesday to what's being informally called the Naming Commission, Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., argued that naming the Georgia base after Cashe would "'appropriately reflect the courage, values and sacrifices' of the U.S. military," quoting the commission's criteria for choosing new names.

"SFC Cashe is a legend in military circles, beloved in life and revered in death, a hero in the purest sense of the term," she wrote. "I believe he would be an honorable and unifying choice, and hope you will consider recommending him in your report to Congress."

Read Next: Biden Says US Forces Killed ISIS Leader During Raid in Syria

In 2020, Congress created the Naming Commission to rename military bases and other Defense Department property with Confederate namesakes amid a nationwide reckoning over race and the legacy of slavery after the police killing of George Floyd.

The commission's initial focus has been on nine Army bases with Confederate names: Forts Lee, Hood, Benning, Gordon, Bragg, Polk, Pickett, A.P. Hill and Rucker.

Fort Benning was named in 1922 after Confederate Brig. Gen. Henry L. Benning, who was a leader of Georgia's secessionist movement.

Late last year, Cashe became the first Black service member from the post-9/11 wars to receive the Medal of Honor after years of campaigning by family members and lawmakers, including Murphy.

Cashe died in 2005 after the Bradley Fighting Vehicle he was commanding in Iraq was struck by an improvised explosive device. He pulled the driver out of the vehicle despite his own uniform being soaked in fuel. While he was rescuing the driver, Cashe's uniform caught fire, causing burns over most of his body, but he still went back to save another six soldiers from the vehicle.

Cashe's connections to Fort Benning include serving as a drill sergeant and a platoon sergeant there.

Murphy is the latest lawmaker to lobby the Naming Commission.

Rep. Donald McEachin, D-Va., and members of the Congressional Black Caucus in October asked for Fort Lee, Virginia, to be renamed in honor of Lt. Gen. Arthur J. Gregg, an Army logistician who rose from private to become one of the most highly decorated Black officers in the military.

Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus have also called for naming Fort Hood, Texas, after Gen. Richard E. Cavazos, the first Mexican American four-star general. The caucus had previously suggested Fort Hood be named for Master Sgt. Roy Benavidez, a Texas native who received the Medal of Honor for valor in the Vietnam War, but in an August letter said Benavidez's background in Special Forces makes him a better fit to be the namesake for Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

The commission also solicited names from the public online. Retired Adm. Michelle Howard, the chair of the commission, said in October that the panel had received thousands of suggestions.

The commission's final report is due to Congress this coming October, and the Pentagon must implement its recommendations by Jan. 1, 2024.

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @reporterkheel.

Related: Thousands of Internet Suggestions Poured in for Replacing Confederate Names on Bases, and Not All Were Nice
President Klaus Iohannis welcomed on Thursday at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, Jean-Yves Le Drian, on an official visit to Bucharest.

According to the Presidential Administration, the head of state appreciated the presence of the French official in Romania, on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of Romania's accession to the European Union, and assured the latter of Romania's support in France's exercising the presidency of the Council of the European Union and in advancing the European agenda, in the current challenging context.

President Iohannis emphasized the importance for our country of the Strategic Partnership with France, which is based on a long historical relationship, cultural affinities, and dynamic cooperation in many areas, as well as common interests and objectives, Agerpres.ro informs.

During the talks, the Romanian president welcomed France's availability, announced by President Emmanuel Macron, to participate in NATO's enhanced military presence in Romania, which demonstrates the solidarity and commitment of the French partner in strengthening deterrence and defense on the Eastern Flank.

"Romania's president has assessed the situation on the eastern border of the European Union and in the Black Sea region as extremely worrying, arguing the need to continue the political dialogue in order to find solutions that would allow the de-escalation of the situation. President Klaus Iohannis equally appreciated that there is a need to consolidate and coordinate the Allied presence in this part of Europe," said the Presidential Administration.

In this context, the head of state also appreciated the French Minister's participation in the Thursday meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Bucharest 9 Format (B9), where consultations took place with NATO allies on the Eastern Flank regarding the increased tensions in Ukraine's neighborhood, due to the massive Russian troop build up in the region.

President Iohannis reiterated his support for the objectives of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the context of the discussions on the Strategic Compass, stressing the importance of the partnership between the European Union and NATO and of the transatlantic unity.

In his turn, the French Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized that his presence in Bucharest, at this anniversary moment, is more proof of the very good relations of bilateral strategic partnership and of the Romanian-French cooperation within the European Union. Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian outlined the objectives of the French Presidency in reaching an agreement on the Strategic Compass by the European Council in March this year, in close coordination with discussions on NATO's new Strategic Concept.

Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian also presented France's stance on security developments in the Eastern Neighborhood, with an emphasis on continuing the diplomatic dialogue, including in the Normandy format, with a view to de-escalation. At the same time, he expressed France's support and involvement in strengthening efforts to protect and defend its Eastern Flank partners and highlighted close coordination within the EU and NATO.

The French Minister thanked Romania for its support and good cooperation with France in its missions in theaters of operations, with a focus on participating in joint efforts to combat terrorism in the Sahel region.
ZK438 Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 lights the afterburner for a performance takeoff RAF Coningsby. Jon Hobley/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The Royal Air Force scrambled fighter jets Thursday in response to Russian aircraft approaching a UK "area of interest."

The RAF routinely intercepts aircraft approaching the UK.

On Wednesday, British aircraft intercepted four Russian strategic bombers amid rising tensions between Putin and NATO over Ukraine.

Just one day after intercepting a handful of Russian strategic bombers, the Royal Air Force again scrambled fighter jets Thursday in response to more Russian aircraft approaching a UK "area of interest."

"Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighters from RAF Lossiemouth, supported by a Voyager Tanker from RAF Brize Norton, have been launched against aircraft approaching the UK area of interest," a Royal Air Force spokesperson said in a statement to Reuters.

The RAF later identified the aircraft as Russian planes, according to Voice of America. The planes were identified as a pair of Russian bombers.

Thursday's incident follows an engagement the day before with four Russian bear bombers.

A Russian Tu-95 bear bomber and its escort fighter during an event in Russia. Photo by Elizaveta Becker/ullstein bild via Getty Images

On Wednesday, the RAF quickly scrambled fighter jets to intercept four Russian military aircraft that entered a UK "area of interest," which is different from sovereign territorial airspace and is instead international airspace over which a country maintains a certain degree of responsibility.

The RAF said its "Typhoon fighters escorted the Russian aircraft out" and that the Russian strategic bombers did not enter British airspace, according to the UK Defence Journal.

The Typhoon is a fourth-generation air superiority fighter capable of supersonic speeds, and the Royal Air Forces uses it as an interceptor for unknown or hostile aircraft. Two bases in the UK have these aircraft on quick reaction alerts to rapidly respond to potential intrusions of the UK's airspace.

The Russian aircraft, according to the RAF, were two Tu-95 Bear H and two Tu-142 Bear F bombers, aircraft tht first entered service during the Cold War. Russian state media published footage of some of the bomber activity.

Story continues

The RAF routinely intercepts aircraft approaching the UK "area of interest." When Russian military aircraft enter this monitored section of international airspace, it can be dangerous because they have a tendency to not communicate with air traffic control, the Associated Press reported.

Russia also regularly flies bombers and other military aircraft past other NATO countries, and it has also flown them into the US air defense identification zone off Alaska. These maneuvers are sometimes considered drills, while others are sometimes suspected to be sending a message.

It is unclear what the intention of Wednesday's fly-by was, but it came during a time of heightened tension between the UK and Russia. Prime Minister Boris Johnson just recently returned from Kyiv and has said that Russia will face consequences, specifically sanctions, should it invade its neighbor.

Read the original article on Business Insider
In a veiled jibe at the BJP-led Central government, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra said on Thursday that the government wants to "alter history and is fearful of the future". Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Moitra said, "This govt wants to alter history. They're fearful of the future and they mistrust the present. The President, early on in his address, speaks about freedom fighters who secured India's rights. But this is just lip service." She alleged that the Lok Sabha Speaker allotted her only 13 minutes to speak. Moitra tweeted, "LS Speaker had allotted AT LEAST 13 mins to me, when confronted in his chamber he claimed he was not in chair hence cant be blamed. When further cornered he said, "It was my greatness that I even allowed you 13 mins in 1st place." Unbelievable." (ANI)
PhD candidate Ziqian Zhang and Professor Benjamin Eggleton optimising the photonic system  the basis of the high frequency radar. Credit: University of Sydney

University of Sydney scientists have achieved a technology breakthrough with potentially life-saving applicationsall using an improved version of radar.

Traditionally, radar is associated with airport control towers or military fighter jets, but a new, highly sensitive radar developed at the University of Sydney takes this technology into the human range.

Called advanced photonic radar, the ultra-high-resolution device is so sensitive it can detect an object's location, speed, and/or angle in millimeters as opposed to meters. This could enable usage in hospitals to monitor people's vital signs such as breathing and heart rate.

In the case of breathing, the radar could continuously detect a person's chest rising and falling. The usual method of monitoring this is via a strap around a person's chest. In the case of burn victims with sensitive skin, however, this is impractical. Similarly, infants have insufficient attaching areas for sleep apnea monitoring, so the novel radar technology could be a better alternative.

Privacy is another concern addressed by the new system. Traditional health surveillance methods such as cameras capture a patient's face, whereas radar, which uses only radio waves, allows patients to remain completely anonymous.

Professor Benjamin Eggleton, principal investigator for this research and Director of the University of Sydney Nano Institute said: "Our invention represents a breakthrough with the use of photonics (light particles). I'm excited about the potential non-traditional applications of this technology, regarding human movement."

Research co-lead, Ph.D. candidate Mr Ziqian Zhang said: "We hope to see real-world applications of this low-cost technology in the not-too-distant future."

An explanation of the device has been published in the journal Laser and Photonics Review.

How it works

Radar is an acronym for radio detection and ranging. It transmits and receives radiofrequency waves to calculate the distance between itself and other objects.

The new system differs from conventional radar in that by using photonics, it can handle a much broader range of frequencies without requiring any high-speed electronics. This is what allows it to generate higher-resolution images in a format that is simpler and potentially much lower cost.

Next steps

Next, the researchers plan to test their system on cane toads, and ultimately, on human participants. The technology is safe, and the research is undergoing ethics approval to proceed.

Once an advanced prototype has been developed, the researchers say it could be miniaturized onto a photonic chip which is small enough to build into a mobile phone.

Explore further CTA announces availability of Ripplean open radar API standard

More information: Yang Liu et al, 11GHzBandwidth Photonic Radar using MHz Electronics, Laser & Photonics Reviews (2022). Yang Liu et al, 11GHzBandwidth Photonic Radar using MHz Electronics,(2022). DOI: 10.1002/lpor.202100549
The chief minister looked for K Amarnath, an IPS officer posted as superintendent of police (SP) in East Midnapore

Kolkata: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday sent out a stern message to her government's bureaucrats not to work under the instructions of governor Jagdeep Dhankhar and political pressure of the BJP and reminded them of their present attachment.

At an administrative review meeting, Ms Banerjee looked for K Amarnath, a young IPS officer posted as superintendent of police (SP) in East Midnapore, known to be a stronghold of Nandigram MLA and leader of the opposition Suvendu Adhikari. The CM angrily asked, "Where is the SP(East Midnapore)? He is hiding!"

As Mr Amarnath stood up, Ms Banerjee told him, "I am getting certain complaints about your district. A preplanned attempt to trigger riot by placing someone as a dummy is being made. I told you about it for a long time. But you did nothing. Then I interfered." Mr Amarnath apprised her of conducting an inquiry, taking action and deploying force.

The CM then added, "Those who trigger riots do not belong to any religion. A political leader instigates it from behind. That is why it takes place. You have to look into it strongly. Are you scared of working? Does the governor call you up to say what to do and not to do?" Mr Amarnath however replied with "No."

Ms Banerjee observed, "You would not reveal it even if he does! Anyway, you do not need to look into it. You are serving the state government. Right? You will work on your own. I have posted you there to perform well. But I got complaints from Haldia and was forced to remove two persons after ordering their arrest. They were creating trouble in the work of Exide Industries and of the Dhanukas. Why do I need to interfere when you are there? If you face any problem due to political pressure in working there, tell me directly. Do not pay heed if anyone dictates you what to do."

Anguished, Mr Dhankhar tweeted the video of the conversation, saying, "Honble CM to SP in full media glare. Did Governor call you? Did he instruct you? What to or what not to do? I know you will not admit that. But feel free to do your assigned work. You are working for state government, mind it. Do not get afraid of such things..
TOKYO, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Japan is considering extending a COVID-19 quasi-state of emergency in Tokyo and 12 prefectures by two weeks, as the country's daily infection cases surpass 100,000 on Thursday, government officials said.

The end date of quasi-state of emergency placed in 34 of Japan's 47 prefectures was originally set on Feb. 13.

Japan's daily infection tally surged to 104,470 on Thursday, topping 100,000 for the first time and pushing up the cumulative total to 3 million cases.

Apart from the quasi-emergency which includes restrictions on business hours of eateries, the Japanese government also mulls over requesting residents to refrain from nonessential travel between prefectures to reduce strain on the medical system, according to government officials.

Besides Tokyo, the extension is being considered for Saitama, Chiba and Kanagawa, which border the capital, as well as Gunma, Niigata, Gifu, Aichi, Mie, Kagawa, Nagasaki, Kumamoto and Miyazaki.

The Japanese capital logged 20,679 infection cases on Thursday, slightly lower than the previous day's record-high 21,576.

Also on Thursday, the government placed the western prefecture of Wakayama under the quasi-emergency, effective from Saturday to Feb. 27.

The quasi-emergency curbs are "effective to a certain extent, as there are areas where the number of new coronavirus cases is declining," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said at a regular press conference. 
Paramedics transfer patients to the emergency room triage but have no choice but to leave them in the hallway due to an at capacity emergency room at the Humber River Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic in Toronto on Tuesday, January 25, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette
Many times in daily conversations, we at the Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce hear someone say, I wish someone would _____________.

We are collaborating and providing engagement with some of these wishes.

Childcare

"I wish someone would expand childcare in Missoula to provide more affordable, quality, dependable childcare for our workforce. Pay our childcare providers more and find ways to provide them benefits.

The chamber has for the past four years worked to develop over seven childcare models creating possible new pathways for expansion of childcare in Missoula. The Missoula chamber was recognized for our efforts in encouraging childcare expansion by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and we were invited to the White House for their childcare summit in December of 2019 due to our leadership role in the state.

I was appointed by the governor in 2021 to chair the Montana Department of Health and Human Services Early Childhood Advisory Council for two years. This group makes suggestions and recommendations to improve childcare for the state's workforce and our providers. The state has millions of ARPA dollars to spend on childcare deserts and needs for our state. Business will have a voice in this process.

Workforce connection

I wish someone would connect future workforce directly to businesses offering career pathways that 'earn while you learn.'

For the past three years, the chamber has worked with Missoula County Public Schools counselors and local businesses to create a website to assist those students who are not two-year or four-year college bound directly to businesses willing to pay for training, while paying wages to grow their future workforce.

In January 2021, Gov. Gianforte approved the Montana Department of Labor to take over this website as a statewide website connecting all of the state to future workforce opportunities. The chamber worked for two years creating this website, and we are proud that it is now offered for the entire state. Go take a look at workforceconnections.mt.gov.

New business opportunities

I wish someone would attract new business and economic development opportunities to Missoula and the state of Montana."

The chamber has a direct connection to and is working collaboratively with Frederick A. Van Den Abbell, who is responsible for business attraction in the state of Montana. The Come Home Montana campaign is promoted through the chambers relocation inquiry page. Visit ComeHomeMontana.com to learn more.

The chamber utilizes leads from our relocation page and those directly referred by the state, and and connects these new businesses to local business leaders to answer their questions and support jobs that fit in Montana. If the first connection is with the chamber, we have a direct line to the state to provide that level of support to new businesses considering relocating to our area.

Rapid workforce training

I wish someone would work to support our University of Montana to expand Accelerate MT to deliver rapid workforce training."

I have a seat on the Montana Department of Labor's ARPA rapid retraining task force. This group was charged with working with two-year and four-year colleges, as well as private training. The chamber has been the constant connecting voice between this opportunity and leadership at the University of Montana, ensuring that our local university has the opportunity for funding to expand on their current Accelerate MT programs.

The top six areas of rapid training are construction, manufacturing, medical, mental health, information technology and cyber security. If you have a business in one of these sectors, connect today with your chamber to ensure your needs are heard for trainings.

In conclusion, your chamber (missoulachamber.com) is doing things most people think just happen. Please consider joining your local chamber and help us as we work to represent businesses as an advocacy voice in all things business and workforce.

Kim Latrielle is president and CEO of the Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce.
Nigeria has profoundly become a global case of delicate religiosity and extreme rituals that permeate every aspect of Nigerian life, institutional practices, the polity, and the economy. Nigeria could as well be the capital of amplified prayers and intensified rituals, yet the psychology of prosperity and safety is practically nil, especially at this time when poverty is in everyones face.

Nigerias religiosity and attention to ritual now seem to lack the moral passion and drive to generate a viable economy, prosperity, and security. The number of prayers beginning in the weekday mornings, evenings, and on big Fridays and widespread Sunday prayers remains extensive, yet disobedience, deception, disunity, exploitation, and dishonesty prevail. Societally, with all the widened prayers and rituals, Nigeria ought not to borrow excessively, struggling with inefficient institutions. It certainly should be a very good and secure country, yet there is so much unfairness, imbalance, cruelty, decadence, and abuse of power.

With almost everyone wearing religion on their face, plus institutions having prayer grounds on premises and visible prayer books seen in offices and stores, the work ethic of individuals and students' behaviors should not be evasive of good acts. In Nigeria, in a more pronounced way, Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions are in full appearance, to the extent that they are, in different ways, looking at how to deal with the evil of poverty, insecurity, and hardship. The spiritual or magical hypocrisy in Nigeria has been taken to the highest proportion that some children are now in the business of using human body parts for money rituals. Many youth scammers, popularly known as "yahoo boys", are resorting to prayers with huge offerings and the use of traditional charms to attract potential victims into their scams.

In Nigerias heightened religious and spiritual space, we hear law enforcement like the Department of Security Service (DSS), intelligence agency displaying charms and jujus amongst other items as evidence recovered during an arrest, arresting someone for allegedly preparing a charm for another person, and the police holding a goat on suspicion of attempted armed robbery after it shapeshifts from a human form. An Osun State lawmaker was reportedly found by night guards naked bathing with blood in the dead of the night apparently for ritual purification, spiritual cleansing, and empowerment.

Even the current nations president, while with his Muslim friends, said that if Nigeria continues to face security challenges despite the use of armed forces, divine intervention is needed now. In the past, the current Vice President and some legislators have participated in the National Christian Prayer Summit. Could it be that the types of prayers and rituals in Nigeria are so peculiar that they aggravate and serve as conduits for institutionalized fraud, exploitation, indiscipline, brutality, chaos, unpredictability, and insecurity? It appears that the types of prayers and rituals are so unusual that a few with accumulated wealth, gotten by various methods and by any means possible, are so wasteful, causing resources to become scarce and poverty to widen.

Therefore, can Nigerians start thinking more and feeling less, using more commonsense amid sincere prayers and meaningful rituals? No attempt is made here to suggest that Nigerians should avoid prayers or religious traditions. However, our widespread prayers and rituals do not appear to be appeasing our ongoing serious personal and institutional wahalas or problems. Hence, conclude that Nigerian type prayers and traditions are the most problematic. As a result, try common good prayers and rituals. Could it be that no matter how much time Nigerians spend carrying out prayers and chants for the betterment of individuals and institutions, their bad ways end up chasing them away? So, I say this: try to be better inwardly and outwardly and push towards becoming better people, institutions, and economies.

John Egbeazien Oshodi, who was born in Uromi, Edo State in Nigeria, is an American based Police/Prison Scientist and Forensic/Clinical/Legal Psychologist. A government consultant on matters of forensic-clinical adult/child psychological services in the USA; Chief Educator and Clinician at the Transatlantic Enrichment and Refresher Institute, an Online Lifelong Center for Personal, Professional, and Career Development. He is a former Interim Associate Dean/Assistant Professor at Broward College, Florida. The Founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation, Center for Psychological Health and Behavioral Change in African Settings In 2011, he introduced State-of-the-Art Forensic Psychology into Nigeria through N.U.C and Nasarawa State University, where he served in the Department of Psychology as an Associate Professor. Currently, a Virtual Behavioral Leadership Professor at ISCOM University, Republic of Benin. Founder of the proposed Transatlantic Egbeazien Open University (TEU) of Values and Ethics, a digital project of Truth, Ethics, and Openness. Founder of Psychoafricalytic Psychology. Over forty academic publications and creations, at least 200 public opinion pieces on African issues, and various books have been written by him. He specializes in psycho-prescriptive writings regarding African institutional and governance issues.

Prof. Oshodi wrote in via [email protected]


Until now, tall ships passed under the bridge before assembling their masts and taller structures, he said.

Dennis Tak, a Labor Party city councilor for Rotterdam, said he was fine with the bridge being dismantled  since the city would not be paying for it  because of the jobs the process would create. As a city, this is a great way to take some of his money, Mr. Tak said.

The structure is more than a bridge to the people of Rotterdam, said Siebe Thissen, the author of the book The Boy Who Jumped From the Bridge, about a working-class man who jumped from the bridge in 1933. Its a monument, he said. Its the identity of Rotterdam.

When city officials tried to take the bridge down in the 1990s since it was no longer in use, there were major protests, he said, calling the bridge a reminder of the old days in Rotterdam.

I think thats why there is so much turmoil about Jeff Bezos and his boat, he said, before referring to accusations against Amazon. People say, Why this guy? Its a working-class town, and they all know that Jeff Bezos, of course, he exploits his workers, so people say, Why should this guy be able to demolish the bridge for his boat?

As of Thursday, more than 600 Facebook users said they would attend an event, titled Throwing eggs at superyacht Jeff Bezos, where they plan to gather by the bridge to throw eggs at the boat. Rotterdammers are proud of their city and dont tear down iconic buildings just because you are super rich, said Pablo Strormann, the event organizer, who said he started the Facebook group mostly as a joke.
TALLAHASSEE  A Mexican citizen living in Panama City was sentenced to 35 years in prison in a Tallahassee courtroom on Wednesday on gun and drug trafficking charges.

According to a news release from the office of Jason R. Coody, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, Jesus Lopez-Garza, 37, was sentenced on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offense, being an alien in the United States after a prior removal and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and illegal alien.

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United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, FL.

"Drugs and a weapon in the hands of a convicted felon is a threatening and potentially deadly combination," Coody said in the news release. "The United States Attorney's Office and our federal and local law enforcement partners are dedicated to making sure such criminals are punished appropriately."

Lopez-Garza came to the attention of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in April 2021 as an individual involved in armed narcotics trafficking.

After determining Lopez-Garza was at a hotel in Panama City, search warrants were executed by ATF special agents and investigators with the Bay County Sheriff's Office. During the search, law enforcement discovered 10.7 pounds of methamphetamine, 12.4 pounds of marijuana, a quarter kilogram of para-fluorofentanyl and more than $30,000 in cash, along with a firearm and ammunition.

During the investigation, It was determined by Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, that Lopez-Garza is a citizen of Mexico and had no lawful immigration status in the United States, the release states.

"Convicted felons and individuals illegally in the United States in possession of firearms in ammunition is illegal. When these prohibited individuals possess and use firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking activities, it poses a serious threat to the safety of our communities," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Craig W. Saier. "This sentencing is another example that working jointly with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners makes our streets safer."

Story continues

In October 2021, Lopez-Garza pleaded guilty to charges including possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, being an alien in the United States after a prior removal and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and illegal alien, the release states.

"ICE is committed to protecting our communities from criminals who show no regard for our laws or our borders," said ICEs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Field Office Director Michael W. Meade. "ICE is pleased to be working closely with the U.S. Attorney to hold criminals like this accountable."

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Mexican arrested in Panama City gets 35 years for drug trafficking
Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson announced Thursday the nation would end its remaining COVID-19 related restrictions on February 9, making the Scandinavian country the latest European nation to remove or scale back pandemic measures.

Speaking to reporters at a Stockholm news conference, Andersson cited an improved understanding of the disease, as well as less pressures on the health care system relative to the rate of infection, and the sharply rising vaccination rate.

She said Sweden will lift its mask requirements for public transportation, capacity limits for bars and restaurant, as well as all proof of vaccination requirements. Andersson also said employers with staff working from home should make a plan for a gradual return to the workplace."

Sweden joins Denmark, Norway and France as one of the latest European countries that have begun to remove or at least scale back COVID-19-restrictions.

Andersson said she is not declaring the pandemic over, but Sweden was entering a new phase.

Her comments come the same day as the World Health Organizations European regional office made comments that might support her decision.

At his own virtual news briefing from his office in Copenhagen, Hans Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe, said he can see a plausible endgame for the pandemic in Europe.

He said while new infections continued in the past week at record levels, hospitalizations, while up, have not risen at the same pace, and deaths have plateaued.

Kluge said there is now, for the first time in the pandemic, a chance to gain control of transmission of the coronavirus. He said thanks to vaccinations and immunity gained from contracting COVID-19, and the now-established lower severity of the omicron variant, there is a level of population defense against any resurge in transmission.

He said this period of higher protection should be seen as a cease-fire that could bring us enduring peace, as long as vaccination and booster rates are maintained.

Despite that announcement, the European Unions executive arm, the European Commission, proposed Thursday a one-year extension of the blocs digital COVID-19 certificates aimed at facilitating travel across the 27-nation bloc during the pandemic, until the end of June 2023.

Commission spokesman Christian Wigand told reporters in Brussels that while they look forward to the day that proof-of-vaccination certificates will not be needed, COVID-19 continues to be prevalent in Europe. He said Europe also needs to be ready for any new infection surges in the second half of the year or for the emergence of new variants.

To take effect, the extension proposal would have to be accepted by EU members and the European Parliament.

Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters, and Agence France-Presse.
FTA will extend trade between Ukraine and Turkey up to $10 bln  talks between Zelensky and Erdogan

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have discussed further steps that will extend trade between the countries.

"During our talks, we touched upon all aspects of our bilateral relations, considered the steps that can be taken to bring our trade balance to $10 billion, which showed a 60% growth last year and reached $7.5 billion. I sincerely believe that the free trade area (FTA) agreement that has just been signed will allow us to achieve this goal quickly," Erdogan said at a joint briefing with the Ukrainian president in Kyiv.

In turn, Zelensky noted that a trade turnover of $10 billion is a realistic goal.

"Even before the signing of the agreement, our mutual trade set a record and grew last year to $7 billion. More than half. This is proof that our goal, our agreement and the desire of both countries - and this is $10 billion - is more than real," the president of Ukraine said.

According to him, the FTA agreement will open up new business opportunities for both countries, increase investment, profits and jobs.

Erdogan also noted that one of the most important pillars of economic cooperation between the countries is Turkish investors in Ukraine.

"We are proud that Turkish companies have successfully implemented and are implementing infrastructure projects in Ukraine," he said.

Erdogan thanked the president of Ukraine for his trust in Turkish companies.

According to him, cooperation between Turkey and Ukraine in the field of tourism is constantly being strengthened.

"Despite the epidemic, last year we accepted more than 2 million of our friends in Turkey. I am convinced that this year we will break the record," Erdogan stressed.
Ukraine and Turkey have signed an agreement to expand the joint production of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

"Today we've paid special attention to cooperation in the aviation and defense industries. This is one of the locomotives of our strategic partnership. Our goal is the implementation of specific projects to create joint ventures, exchange of experience, exchange of technologies. An agreement has been signed today that will expand the production of unmanned aerial vehicles," Zelensky said at a joint briefing with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Kyiv.

As reported, Oleksiy Arestovych, the speaker of the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on resolving the situation in Donbas, in December 2021 announced that the Ukrainian-Turkish plant, which is being built in the town of Vasylkiv, Kyiv region, will produce reactive heavy drones of the ANKA type - the next generation of drones after Bayraktar, as well as promising Ukrainian drones.

"In particular, we can talk about jet drones, which are interceptors. That is, they are capable of operating against air targets, against other drones. Even against manned aircraft. They will have Ukrainian engines and the rest of Turkish avionics: a hull, etc.," he said.

According to Arestovych, the plant in Vasylkiv should already produce the first products at the end of 2022.
Fairbanks, AK (99707)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. High near 50F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early with showers later at night. Low near 35F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

A new study from the Media, Inequality and Change Center (MIC) examines how large-scale activism and heightened public discourse around systemic racism and police brutality influenced local reporting on policing in 2020. Through an analysis of a full year of coverage by local newspapers in Philadelphia, Minneapolis, and Louisville, the report assesses the types of sources journalists cited, how police officers and civilians are portrayed, and the context the news stories provided around policing and racial justice.

As the May 2020 murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer ignited a surge of protests against police brutality and system racism in the United States, the media fell under increased scrutiny for how they depicted policing, race, and communities of color.

The report's authorsSusanna Dilliplane, Ph.D., deputy director of The Aspen Institute's Planning and Evaluation Program; MIC's associate director, Briar Smith; and Annenberg doctoral student Louisa Lincolnanalyzed coverage of policing published over the course of 2020 by the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Louisville Courier-Journal and Philadelphia Inquirer.

The study, entitled "Policing 2020: Local news reporting during a year of protest," found that the newspapers' coverage reflected and responded to the public's focus on race and policing. The researchers observed more inclusive sourcing practices in some of the coverage, less dehumanizing language (e.g., 'suspect' and 'offender'), and greater use of information that challenged the police or helped to situate policing in the context of racial justice.

However, the authors say, coverage of policing still continued to reflect narratives that reinforced a police perspective. Relative to other sources in the community, journalists heavily cited police officers in their local crime reporting. They also more consistently included "criminalizing" details, such as information about a civilian's threatening behavior towards police, while failing to mention police accountability in stories that involved civilians being injured or killed by police. This helped to justify police use of force and downplay the connection between police violence and police accountability.

Moreover, most protest coverage portrayed protesters as a threat to property and public safety, and often failed to mention protesters being harmed by police. To this end, the report offers broader observations about how newsrooms can reexamine and move away from problematic reporting practices and improve their coverage of policing.

Explore further Community policing found to be ineffective in improving trust or reducing crime
WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Joe Biden confirmed Thursday that the leader of the extremist group Islamic State (IS) has been killed by a U.S. counterterrorism raid in Syria.

In a statement released by the White House, Biden said U.S. military forces carried out a successful operation in northwest Syria that resulted in the death of Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi -- the leader of ISIS.

"All Americans have returned safely from the operation," he said.

The president said he will deliver remarks later in the day.

Spokesman for the Defense Department John Kirby said in a statement that the operation was carried out by U.S. Special Operations forces under the control of the U.S. Central Command.

"More information will be provided as it becomes available," he said.

It was the biggest U.S. raid in Syria since the 2019 operation that killed IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. 
SIOUX CITY -- A Sioux City teen who had a falling out with his attorneys days before his murder trial was to begin has had his case rescheduled for trial with a new attorney.

District Judge Jeffrey Poulson on Wednesday scheduled Dwight Evans' trial for July 26 in Woodbury County District Court.

Evans, 17, has pleaded not guilty of first-degree murder, going armed with intent, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and failure to affix a drug tax stamp. He's charged with shooting Martez Harrison on May 1 during a fight outside Uncle Dave's Bar.

On Jan. 12, six days before jury selection was to begin, Poulson granted a motion to withdraw from the case filed by public defenders Joseph Reedy and Andrew Munger, who said they were unable to adequately represent Evans because he was no longer accepting their advice and wanted them off the case.

Assistant Woodbury County Attorney Jill Esteves had resisted the motion, calling Evans' actions a ploy to delay his trial.

Michael Adams with the Iowa State Public Defender's Special Defense Unit in Des Moines has since been appointed to represent Evans.

Evans could face a sentence of life in prison if found guilty of first-degree murder. He's charged with shooting Harrison once in the flank, then firing a shot into his chest while Harrison fought with Lawrence Canady outside the bar at 1427 W. Third St.

According to court documents, Evans and Canady were armed and waiting for Harrison outside the bar. When Harrison's girlfriend arrived to pick him up, Canady punched her in the face, causing the fight that preceded the shooting.

Harrison, 22, of Sioux City, died later at a Sioux City hospital.

Evans was arrested hours after the shooting. His attorneys previously filed documents saying he acted in self-defense and/or defense of others in addition to being intoxicated at the time of the shooting.

Canady, 21, of Sioux City, was charged with first-degree murder, willful injury and serious assault. In December, a jury found him guilty of the lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter as well as willful injury causing bodily injury and serious assault. He's scheduled to be sentenced Feb. 25.
Customs and Border Protection figures show a steady rise in the arrest of migrants with criminal records caught trying to illegally cross into the US.

Border Patrols El Paso department stopped 244 convicted criminals between October 2021 and January this year - a five per cent rise on the same time last year when 232 criminals were apprehended.

In total, 875 convicted criminals tried to enter America across the El Paso Sectors 268-miles of border in the 2021 fiscal year.

Previous convictions of the migrants ranged from assault, burglary and driving under the influence to homicide, illegal drug possession, illegal weapon possession and sexual offenses.

A migrant with an arrest warrant for drug possession in Colorado was taken into custody by El Paso Sector Border Patrol agents in Deming, New Mexico, on January 12. At least 244 migrants with criminal records have been arrested in the sector since the start of fiscal year 2022, which spans from October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2022

U.S. Border Patrol agents in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, apprehended a migrant from Guatemala after he was stopped crossing the Mexico-United States border on January 20. He had an arrest warrant in Minnesota for criminal sexual conduct

The latest figures were released after Texas Governor Greg Abbott once against expressed his disapproval of how the administration of President Joe Biden has handled security at the southwestern border during a meeting with 11 state attorney generals last Thursday.

U.S. Border Patrols five sectors in Texas  El Paso, Del Rio, Rio Grande Valley and Laredo  have reported 300,678 encounters with migrants in the current fiscal year.

'Texas is responding in full force to the Biden administration's failure to address the disaster at our border, and our efforts are made stronger by the collaboration with other state leaders from across the country,' said Abbott.

Abbott in September 2021 signed a bill to provide $3 billion in funds to improve the state's border area with Mexico.

He also announced Operation Lone Star in September and deployed the 1,000 National Guard members to secure the border before it ballooned up to 10,000 in January.

Just last week, agents assigned to the El Paso Sector arrested five individuals, including including two convicted felons with gang ties. One man had a criminal record in his native country and the other had a pending murder charge in Los Angeles.

In Columbus, New Mexico, border agents , stopped a migrant for illegally crossing the border on Wednesday and found he had served a two-year sentence in Los Angeles before he was deported.

U.S. Border Patrol officers also intercepted a native of El Salvador as he crossed from Mexico to Santa Teresa, Mexico.

Texas governor Greg Abbott (second to the right) gathered with 11 state attorney generals last Thursday to discuss ways on how to improve security at the southwestern border

U.S. Border Patrol sees uptick in migrants with criminal records being captured for illegally crossing the Mexico-United States border in the El Paso Sector through the first quarter of fiscal year 2022

His arrest record revealed he was linked to a criminal gang and had been deported twice from the United States.

In another incident that same day, U.S. Border Patrol agents took a migrant into custody after he was spotted trekking through the international borderline west of the Columbus Port of Entry in Deming, New Mexico. The suspect had been previously convicted for a string of crimes in San Jose, California, that included sexual battery, DUI causing bodily injury, hit and run and DUI.

Later in the day, border agents in Santa Teresa stopped two men for unlawfully crossing the border. One of the migrants had been previously deported from the U.S. after serving time in prison for unlawful transport of firearms, felon in possession of a firearm, and receiving stolen property.

At least two other migrants with arrest warrants were taken into custody while trying to enter the U.S. on January 12 and January 20.

El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez said the border crossing apprehensions are proof of the dangers criminal organizations present by helping convicted criminals return to the U.S.

'Dangerous criminals endanger our communities when they often continue to disregard rule of law,' Chavez said.. 'Our agents work diligently and tirelessly to protect our communities and our country. These significant arrests made over the span of seven days demonstrate the importance of the work the agents do every day.'
Alexandre Lacazette has sent an emotional farewell message to former Arsenal strike partner Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang following his move to Barcelona - while also hinting at his own departure from the club.

Aubameyang, 32, put pen to paper on a three-year deal with Barca after terminating his 350,000-a-week contract with Arsenal, a move which cost the north London club 7million, reports The Times.

The Gabon international only fired them to victory in the FA Cup final 18 months ago, but following a number of disciplinary breaches and a fall-out with Mikel Arteta he was ultimately deemed surplus to requirements at the Emirates.

Alexandre Lacazette has paid tribute to ex-Arsenal team-mate Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Aubameyang left the Gunners to sign for Barcelona on transfer dealine day this week

Regardless, Lacazette still paid tribute to his ex-Gunners colleague by writing a farewell message on Twitter.

Along with a photo of the pair embracing for Arsenal, the Frenchman said to Aubameyang: 'My bro !! Thanks for the last 4 years , my experience in arsenal would have been different without you.. Wish you good luck in your next chapter !'

And in cryptic fashion, Lacazette concluded the message by writing: 'See you soon' along with a smirking and laughing emoji.

Lacazette sent an emotional farewell message to his former strike partner on social media

Like Aubameyang was before the termination of his deal, Lacazette is out of contract at Arsenal in the summer and does not appear close to an extension.

The 30-year-old, who has scored 70 goals in 192 appearances for the Gunners, is said to have turned down an extension offer amid interest from ex-club Lyon.

French outlet L'Equipe are reporting that Lyon are in talks with their former striker about a potential return upon the expiry of his contract this summer.

The Frenchman thanked Aubameyang for their four years together and hinted at his own exit

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has stressed that the French side will 'do their best' to secure a deal for Lacazette, who departed to join Arsenal in 2017.

The player has also been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid amid doubts over his future at Arsenal.

Lacazette is not the only striker on his way out of the Emirates this summer, with youngster Eddie Nketiah's contract also up at the end of June.
The Queen cut an elegant figure today as she donned a bright lipstick and her signature headscarf as she was driven in her Land Rover in Sandringham ahead of the 70th anniversary of her father's death this weekend.

Her Majesty, 95, is staying in Prince Philips's beloved Wood Farm cottage on the Sandringham estate for the first time without him after spending the festive period at Windsor Castle.

Wearing her signature silk head scarf, the Queen donned a red and gold look with a bright pop of lipstick as she was driven through the estate this afternoon.

She is expected to spend Accession Day, on February 6, with her family during an extended break at the cottage and will mark her Platinum Jubilee in private.

The Queen, 95, appeared in high spirits today as she was driven in her Land Rover in Sandringham ahead of the 70th anniversary of her father's death this weekend

She is expected to spend Accession Day, on February 6, with her family during an extended break at the cottage and will mark her Platinum Jubilee in private

She opted for a simple make-up look, with a touch of light foundation and a pink lip stick.

Meanwhile she also donned a pair of tinted glasses for the outing.

Later, as the monarch returned to Wood Farm, the Queen sat in the backseat of her chauffeur driven vehicle and removed her headscarf and glasses.

The monarch usually spends the festive period at Sandringham, but has remained at Windsor Castle since the autumn as a Covid precaution and held muted Christmas celebrations with Prince Charles, The Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Edward and the Countess of Wessex.

In preparation for the anniversary of her father George VI on February 6, 1952, the Queen made a special trip by helicopter followed by a short drive by car to Norfolk last month.

Wearing her signature silk head scarf, the Queen donned a red and gold look while also wearing glasses as she was driven around her Sandringham estate

As she returned to Wood Farm this lunchtime, the monarch travelled in the back seat of her car, removing her headscarf and glasses

A source told the Mail on Sunday: 'Everything is being put in order for the Queen's visit.

'We've been told that she will stay at Wood Farm, rather than the main house, which is nice as that always had a special place in his heart.'

Wood Farm was where Philip, her husband of 73 years who passed away aged 99, largely spent the last few years of his life following his retirement.

The Queen has stayed in the cottage before, but it will be the first time since Philip died in April last year.

Wood Farm (pictured), an unassuming cottage on the edge of the Sandringham Estate close to the Norfolk coastline

She last visited the estate in early November and would normally have spent the weekend after Halloween at Sandringham with Philip and did not want to miss the occasion.

The Queen was only 25 and on holiday in Kenya with Prince Philip at the time of her father's death - making her the first monarch to ascend the throne while aboard in 200 years.

Her Platinum Jubilee will be celebrated with four days of public holiday in June.

When Philip retired from public duties in 2017 at the age of 95  the age of the Queen today  Sandringham was the place he called home.

The monarch usually spends the festive period at Sandringham, but has remained at Windsor Castle since the autumn as a Covid precaution and held muted Christmas celebrations with Prince Charles, The Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Edward and the Countess of Wessex. She is pictured with Prince Philip last year

With typical enthusiasm, he set about improving Wood Farm as a retirement bolt-hole.

He oversaw a project to install a new kitchen and spent his days reading, writing and painting.

The Queen, when she wasn't on duty in London, would travel up to stay with Philip at the cottage and it was there that the two could live more like a 'normal' couple than at any other time of her reign.

Dispensing with liveried servants, Philip had insisted that Wood Farm staff  a page, housekeeper, chef and footman  wore ordinary clothes.

The monarch usually spends the festive period at Sandringham, but has remained at Windsor Castle since the autumn as a Covid precaution and held muted Christmas celebrations with Prince Charles, The Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Edward and the Countess of Wessex

Whether by helicopter or by car, the 140-mile journey from Windsor to Sandringham is one to be endured rather than enjoyed  particularly for a 95-year-old.

So the decision to travel will not have been made lightly and must be taken as a sign that, if she is not robust, she is in reasonable health.

The Queen's jubilee celebrations have been tainted by her son Prince Andrew's controversy surrounding his friendship with late paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein and a court case being brought against him in the US.

Andrew could lose his round-the-clock police protection as early as next month after he was exiled as a frontline royal.

On visits to Sandringham, the young Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret would cycle around the estate and join their mother and father overseeing the harvest. (Above, Elizabeth with her father, George VI, at Sandringham in 1943)

Sources say a full review of his security is being carried out by Scotland Yard and the Home Office following last week's decision by the Queen to strip her son of his remaining military and charitable affiliations and stop him using his HRH title.

A close associate of the Duke has now claimed he could have his royal patronages restored if he wins the civil case against him while The Queen is alive - but it would be 'less predictable' if Charles was the monarch.

Andrew is currently facing a court battle in New York as a private citizen after being banned from using the styling 'HRH'.

Judge Lewis Kaplan last month sensationally ruled that the Queen's second son can be tried over claims he sexually assaulted Ms Giuffre when she was 17  allegations which Andrew has categorically denied.
FREEPORT  Growing up, Dan Rieger knew what wanted to do with this life.

His grandfather was a mechanic who worked on farm equipment and his dad owned a garage in Manchester, Iowa.

I just kind have always done this, said Rieger, who owns Dans Route 66 Service, Freeports only full-service gas station.

Thats right. At Dans, when someone pulls up for fuel, an attendant will pump their gas, check their oil and make sure the tires are aired up. If theyre not, theyll get topped off, too.

Theres nothing else I would rather do, Rieger said. I love coming to work in the morning.

'A fabric in this community': Freeport Fire Chief Brad Liggett made a life helping others

Plan was always full-service

Besides pumping gas, Riegers team does oil changes and repairs of all kinds  brakes, engine work, tires, alternators and more.

When he bought the place in 2000, he said he received plenty of advice about how to turn the corner station into a modern-day auto shop with a couple self-service pumps and things found at just about every convenience store in town.

Rieger wasnt hearing it.

There were plenty of self-service stations in Freeport. The previous owners ran a full-service operation, and he already had a plan.

My dad had a place just like this, he said. And I always knew in the back of my mind that someday I would do this.

His age was the only thing that prevented Rieger from taking over the family business. His dad died when Rieger was 17, and there was nobody to keep it going.

I was still in high school, and I was just too young to run a business, so we sold it, he said. After high school, Rieger attended Hawkeye Technical Institute  now Hawkeye Community College  in Waterloo, Iowa, then worked as a mechanic in Cedar Rapids.

A short stint as a railroad worker followed, and in 1984, he landed in Freeport.

Dan Rieger of Freeport is seen here on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022, at his full service gas station, Dan's Route 66 Service in Freeport.

A neighborhood niche

Rieger says he understands the self-service model. Its quick, easy and cheap. But theres something about the experience thats missing  face-to-face interactions and the relationships that develop from a service nobody else offers.

Story continues

I have 80-year-old women who come in who have never pumped gas in their lives, he said. Their husbands always took care of it. Their husbands are passed away, so they come in and we fill it up for them.

The station gets about 200 gas customers a day.

Dans Route 66 is one of three known full-service stations in the state. Kean Brothers in Chicago and Donaldsons Standard Service in Beecher City are the other two.

Some say theyre stuck in some sort of time capsule. The owners call them something else.

We are a neighborhood niche, said Raleigh Kean, whose family has operated their station for 71 years. People still support us for the most part because we are a local business.

'A beautiful establishment'

Dan's Route 66 Service in Freeport is seen here on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022.

A bill that would have created the Gas Station Attendant Act died on the Illinois House floor two years ago. It would have made Illinois the third state after New Jersey and Oregon to prohibit drivers from pumping their own gas.

Patricia Euell, of Freeport, said shed be all for such a law.

We love this place, Euell said, adding that her elderly mother depends on Dans Route 66 to keep her vehicle going. Its a beautiful establishment.

Rieger said he appreciates the gratitude, but for him its more than just gas, oil, and car parts. A lot more.

I get to meet with people all day, every day, he said. Its always something different. This is my American dream.

Dans Route 66 Service is at 1348 S. Galena Ave. It can be reached at 815-235-2556.

Jim Hagerty: jhagerty@rrstar.com; @jimhagerty

This article originally appeared on Journal Standard: Dan's Route 66 in Freeport, IL one of 3 full-service gas stations left
Tesla has been forced to recall 817,000 vehicles in the US, over an issue with the seatbelt alert system not warning drivers to buckle up.

This is a bad week for the Elon Musk-owned firm, which has been hit by two recalls in three days, and over 100 complaints of cars suddenly breaking without warning.

The latest massive recall was ordered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as until it is fixed the affected vehicles no longer comply with 'federal motor vehicle safety standards 'on 'Occupant Crash Protection.'

It means that without an audible chime activating to warn the driver they haven't buckled up their seatbelt, they are put at increased risk of harm from a crash.

Some 2021-2022 Model S and Model X cars are affected, as well as Model 3's from 2017 to 2022, and Model Y vehicles from 2020 to 2022.

Sales figures since 2017 suggest Tesla has sold just under a million cars in the US, so this 817,000 vehicle recall is a significant issue for the Texas-based firm.

Tesla said it was not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the issue and would send an 'over the air update' in the coming days to fix the problem.

Many of the recent issues facing the car firm have been in its software, which could be a dent to the pride of founder Elon Musk, who recently tweeted: 'Tesla is as much a software company as it is a hardware company, both in car and in factory.'

Some 2021-2022 Model S and Model X cars are affected, as well as Model 3's from 2017 to 2022, and Model Y vehicles from 2020 to 2022

The latest massive recall was ordered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as until it is fixed the affected vehicles no longer comply with 'federal motor vehicle safety standards 'on 'Occupant Crash Protection'

Documents shared by the NHTSA suggest that the issue is limited to circumstances where the chime was interrupted in the 'preceding drive cycle', where the driver continued going, dismissing the alarm without buckling up.

This suggests that it is only a problem for Tesla drivers who failed to listen to the chime the first time around.

Tesla explained that even under those circumstances, once the driver hits 13 miles per hour the chime will sound again, and there is a visual reminder to buckle up.

However, safety standards in the US require that 'the audible seat belt reminder chime to activate upon vehicle start' and not turn off until the driver is strapped in.

Many of the recent issues facing the car firm have been in its software, which could be a dent to the pride of founder Elon Musk, who recently tweeted: 'Tesla is as much a software company as it is a hardware company, both in car and in factory'

Documents shared by the NHTSA suggest that the issue is limited to circumstances where the chime was interrupted in the 'preceding drive cycle', where the driver continued going, dismissing the alarm without buckling up

TESLA AUTOPILOT: CAMERAS AND SENSORS LET THE CAR SEE THE ROAD Autopilot uses cameras, ultrasonic sensors and radar to see and sense the environment around the car. The sensor and camera suite provides drivers with an awareness of their surroundings that a driver alone would not otherwise have. A powerful onboard computer processes these inputs in a matter of milliseconds to help what the company say makes driving 'safer and less stressful.' Autopilot is a hands-on driver assistance system that is intended to be used only with a fully attentive driver. It does not turn a Tesla into a self-driving car nor does it make a car autonomous. Before enabling Autopilot, driver must agree to 'keep your hands on the steering wheel at all times' and to always 'maintain control and responsibility for your car.' Once engaged, if insufficient torque is applied, Autopilot will also deliver an escalating series of visual and audio warnings, reminding drivers to place their hands on the wheel. Any of Autopilot's features can be overridden at any time by steering or applying the brakes. Advertisement

This means that the Tesla models, all of which were built after 2017, and most since 2020, fall foul of the letter of these regulations.

It can be fixed with a simple software update, which Tesla says will be delivered to cars in the coming days.

This problem was spotted at the South Korea Automobile Testing and Research Institute on January 6, with Tesla agreeing to a recall on January 25.

This is one of the largest recalls for the firm, covering all models in its lineup and the vast majority of cars it has sold since 2017.

While the issue appears to be an easy one to fix, and fairly limited in its real world applications, it couldn't have come at a worse time for Tesla.

The firm announced just yesterday it was recalling 54,000 vehicles over a problem with its self-driving software that lets them roll through stop signs without coming to a complete halt.

Tesla announced it would disable the feature with an over-the-internet software update.

The rolling stop feature, that was being tested by a number of drivers, lets vehicles go through junctions with a stop sign at up to 5.6 miles per hour.

The documents say Tesla agreed to the recall after two meetings with officials from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

NHTSA officials are also investigating more than 100 complaints from drivers about 'phantom braking' where the vehicle suddenly stops without warning.

This is a persistent issue for the firm, which prompted Musk to say in October that it would roll-back its self-driving software due to the problem.

Since then the number of incidents has spiked, with more 107 complaints to the NHTSA in the past three months alone - compared to 34 in the two years before.

The regulator is also investigating a string of incidents where cars using Autopilot have crashed into emergency vehicles.

All of that is on top of other recalls for physical problems with the cars, including with the cameras, trunk and suspension.

Safety advocates complain that Tesla should not be allowed to test the vehicles on public roads with untrained drivers, and that the Tesla software can malfunction, exposing other motorists and pedestrians to danger. Most of the other car companies with similar software test with trained human safety drivers.

This means that the Tesla models, all of which were built after 2017, and most since 2020, fall foul of the letter of these regulations

Alain Kornhauser, faculty chairman of autonomous vehicle engineering at Princeton University, said the recall is an example of the NHTSA doing its job as the nation's road safety watchdog.

The recall 'shows that they can be effective even if Tesla should have been more responsible in the first place,' he said.

In November, the NHTSA said it was looking into a complaint from a Tesla driver that the full self-driving software caused a crash.

The driver said the Model Y went into the wrong lane and was hit by another vehicle. The SUV gave the driver an alert halfway through the turn and the driver tried to turn the wheel to avoid other traffic, according to the complaint.

But the car took control and 'forced itself into the incorrect lane,' the driver reported.

No one was hurt in the crash on November 3 in Brea, California, according to the complaint.

In December, Tesla agreed to update its less sophisticated autopilot driver-assist system after the NHTSA opened an investigation.

The company agreed to stop allowing video games to be played on centre touch screens while its vehicles are moving.
A Michigan man who illegally parked his Chevrolet SUV in front of the US Supreme Court last fall returned to the same location in Washington DC on Thursday and was questioned by the US Capitol Police.

The agency announced in a tweet just before 10am that Dale Paul Melvin, 55, of Kimball, Michigan, was found in his Chevy Tahoe sitting outside the nation's highest court on First Street, where parking is illegal.

'Our investigators are talking to him now,' the Capitol Police stated. 'Out of an abundance of caution, we have closed off the area.'

Photos taken at the scene show several law enforcement officials speaking to the bearded, bespectacled driver of a battered Chevy in a pouring rain.

Scroll down for video

Parked in front of the Supreme Court illegally, Dale Paul Melvin talks with US Capitol Police officers on Thursday, nearly four months after being arrested in Washington DC

Police talked to Melvin, from Kimball, Michigan, but did not arrest him this time

The incident caused temporary road closures in the heart of Washington DC on Thursday

First Street between Constitution Avenue Northeast and Independence Avenue Southwest, and East Capitol Street between First Street and Second Street were closed to traffic for about 20 minutes.

In a follow-up tweet, authorities revealed that 'no arrests have been made' and the roads surrounding the DC landmark have been reopened.

No additional information was immediately available, but the Capitol Police tweeted that they will provide more details later in the day.

According to the Supreme Courts calendar, the court was not in session on Thursday.

On October 5, 2021, Melvin was arrested after parking the same Chevy Tahoe outside the Supreme Court and refusing to leave. He was quoted as allegedly telling cops: 'the time for talking is done.'

On October 5, 2021, Melvin parked the same Chevy Tahoe outside the nation's highest court and refused to leave, allegedly telling police: 'the time for talking is done'

Police were forced to use flash bang devices to get Melvin out of his SUV during a standoff

The 55-year-old was dragged away in handcuffs by the police and charged with failure to obey and assault on a police officer

Authorities said Melvin had visited the Capitol Complex in August 2021 and 'concerning statements'

Melvin's Facebook page previously featured several posts targeting prominent Democrats, including former President Barack Obama

Police had to deploy flash bang devices to smoke Melvin out of his SUV, before dragging him away in handcuffs.

Melvin was charged with failure to obey and assault on a police officer.

Authorities revealed at the time that Melvin had visited the Capitol Complex in August 2021 and made 'concerning statements.'

Melvin's Facebook page previously featured several posts indicating that he is a supporter of former President Donald Trump, and a critic of Democrats including former President Barack Obama and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
Erie police launched a homicide investigation on the early morning of Jan. 27 after a 30-year-old city man was found dead in the street on McClelland Avenue.

A drug investigation followed after police were told that a group from Arizona that was staying in a nearby short-term rental house had traveled to the city to sell fentanyl.

As detectives continue working on trying to identify who fired the shots that killed Shannon Crosby and seriously injured one member of the Arizona group, Erie police have called on federal agencies for assistance in finding the source of the drugs and why they were brought to the city.

One dead in Erie shooting: Police searching for suspects after shooting at Erie rental leaves one man dead, one wounded

"We're passing information on to our federal partners to look at the bigger picture, where the drugs came from and how they were transported across the country," Erie Police Chief Dan Spizarny said.

Police have spoken with members of the FBI and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, he said.

The FBI confirmed that the FBI Pittsburgh's Erie office is in communication with Erie police during its investigation and is poised to assist, if needed.

One person was fatally shot and one person was injured in an early-morning shooting, on Jan. 27 at 3904 McClelland Ave., which police said was operating as a short-term rental property.

The drug investigation

No one had been charged as of Thursday in the shooting, which police said happened at a short-term rental house at 3904 McClelland Ave. and was first reported at 12:07 a.m. on Jan. 27.

According to investigators, four men from Arizona had traveled to Erie and were staying at the house when an attempted home-invasion robbery occurred and gunshots were fired.

Crosby was found in the street in the 3800 block of McClelland Avenue and was taken to UPMC Hamot, where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy determined that Crosby died of a gunshot wound to the trunk, said Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook, who ruled the death a homicide.

Officers who responded to the shooting found shell casings of multiple calibers at the scene, investigators reported.

Story continues

Victim ID'd in fatal Erie shooting: Short-term rental shooting victim ID'd; police say Arizona group traveled to Erie to sell drugs

One of the Arizona men, identified by Erie police as 18-year-old Kortez L. Murray, of Phoenix, was shot in the face and body and initially went to Saint Vincent Hospital for treatment before being transferred to UPMC Hamot.

Investigators said another member of the Arizona group, 21-year-old Saul Felix, of Avondale, near Phoenix, was at the hospital with Murray and spoke to Erie police detectives. He told investigators that the group had traveled from the Phoenix area to Erie to sell a quantity of fentanyl pills to a person in Erie for $30,000, according to information in case documents.

Detectives said Felix told them the group arrived in Erie on Jan. 25, and on that day a quantity of pills were provided to an Erie contact for $23,000 during a meeting at an apartment complex near the McClelland Avenue rental house. Felix said another drug deal took place at the apartment complex on Jan. 26, according to investigators.

Erie police charged Felix with felony counts of conspiracy to commit possession with intent to deliver and criminal use of a communication facility and with a misdemeanor count of possession of a controlled substance. Murray was charged with a felony count of conspiracy to commit possession with intent to deliver and misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance.

Both men are in the Erie County Prison on $250,000 bond.

Detectives charged the other two members of the Arizona group, but both remained at large Thursday.

Abner L. Gonzalez, 19, of Tolleson, near Phoenix, and Deontray E. Keomany-Smith, 19, of Avondale, are each wanted on conspiracy to commit possession with intent to deliver and possession of a controlled substance charges.

Investigators served a search warrant on the McClelland Avenue rental house after the shooting and said they collected evidence. Spizarny declined to comment on the recovered evidence, including whether police seized any suspected drugs.

When asked if the Arizona group had visited Erie prior to their late January visit, Spizarny said that is part of the ongoing investigation.

Police are still trying to determine how many other people were involved in the shooting and who those people are, Erie police Deputy Chief Rick Lorah said Thursday.

The fentanyl pills the group was accused of selling in Erie are illegal drugs that city police drug detectives come across occasionally in their investigations, said Lt. Mike Chodubski of the Erie Bureau of Police Drug & Vice Unit. He said detectives have investigated cases involving fentanyl pills four or five times before the recent shooting.

The pills, which are manufactured in different sizes, can sell for $20 to $60 a pill on the streets, Chodubski said.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid developed for pain management, has been blamed in numerous drug deaths across the country through illicit use in recent years. Cook, the coroner, reported in March that fentanyl was found in three-quarters of Erie County's 80 drug-related deaths in 2020.

A dangerous encounter

Spizarny said drug deals such as the one suspected of taking place when the Jan. 27 shooting occurred are dangerous not only from the drugs being peddled, but from the transactions.

He said the likelihood of violence is high as dealers tend to be armed, and shootings can occur.

"These drug dealers are known to carry weapons for their protection. When police get involved, we're always dealing with armed individuals," he said.

Spizarny said the Jan. 27 incident brought to mind a similar incident that occurred in Erie in February 2019, when two men were wounded in a shootout outside of the Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront Hotel.

According to investigators, a group from Chicago traveled to Erie to sell a kilo of heroin for $80,000 to a local contact. A shootout occurred during the transaction, and two of the men from Chicago were wounded and were taken into police custody.

Police recovered a package they said contained 300 grams of the suspected heroin at the shooting scene.

Erie police probe drug deal in shootout: Police: Shootout in Erie stemmed from drug deal

One of the wounded men, 39-year-old Jermaine Belgrave, was convicted at trial in June of charges of conspiracy to commit possession with intent to deliver, carrying a firearm without a license and recklessly endangering in the incident. He was sentenced in November to serve seven years and six months to 15 years in state prison.

The other wounded man, 38-year-old Charles W. Baizar, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit possession with intent to deliver and was sentenced in February 2020 to serve five to 10 years in prison.

No one was charged for shooting Belgrave and Baizar.

Tools in the fight

The sharing of information with the FBI and DEA in the shooting and drug case comes as Erie police and other local and federal law enforcement agencies are preparing to implement collaborative drug-fighting efforts through a federal designation bestowed in 2021.

The Pittsburgh-based U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, which includes Erie, announced in May that Erie County was designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking area by the White House's Office of National Drug Control Policy.

The U.S. Attorney's Office said the county has been used by drug traffickers as a waypoint for large-scale distribution by exploiting Erie's easy access by transportation routes to larger cities such as Cleveland, Buffalo and Detroit.

Erie County gets aid in drug fight: Federal designation adds resources, funding to fight against illegal drugs in Erie County

The dealers utilize Erie County as a repackaging hub for further distribution of their product and to funnel drug proceeds back through the supply line, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

Officials said the designation would provide Erie County with funding and other resources and would involve all law enforcement in the region in some capacity to combat drug trafficking.

Designation bolsters drug fight in Erie: New federal designation to bolster crime-fighting efforts of FBI-led task force in Erie

Spizarny said at the time the announcement was made that the designation would mean more coordination between law enforcement agencies and would give Erie police the opportunity to dive deeper into drug investigations to seek where the drugs are coming from and to try to stop them at the source.

Spizarny said Wednesday that meetings on setting up the program are ongoing. The operational aspects of the program are being set up and officials are preparing task force officers to work on it, he said.

The FBI said it continues to work with its state and local partners to bring much-needed resources to the area that the designation offers.

Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNhahn.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Erie homicides: Drug probe part of investigation into fatal shooting
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mutual of America Financial Group announced the recipients of its 2021 Community Partnership Award, marking the 26th anniversary of the prestigious national competition.

Five nonprofit organizations were selected for their outstanding contributions to society, in partnership with public, private and other social sector organizations. The Nathaniel Project received the Thomas J. Moran Award, which is given to the national award-winning program and includes $100,000 and a documentary video about the program. The remaining four were named honorable mention recipients, and each will receive $50,000.

Later this spring, Mutual of America Financial Group will honor these exceptional winners at an exclusive celebration at the Company's headquarters in New York City at 320 Park Avenue. This event will take place on May 10 in the Company's newly constructed, state-of-the-art dining and conference center on the 16th floor, which includes nearly 20,000 square feet of indoor space and a 6,300-square-foot outdoor terrace overlooking Park Avenue. At that time, the Company will premiere the documentary video about the Nathaniel Project.

"The 2021 award-winning programs have created innovative solutions that effectively address challenging social, emotional and physical issues being faced by many individuals and families in their local communities," said John R. Greed, Chairman, President and CEO of Mutual of America Financial Group. "Through collaboration and exemplary leadership, these programs make a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals they serve, and we are honored to recognize them for their efforts and the positive impact they are making on society."

2021 Award Recipients

Thomas J. Moran Award Recipient

The Nathaniel Project (Center for Alternative Sentencing & Employment Services, Brooklyn, NY )



The Nathaniel Project was established in 2000 by CASES (The Center for Alternative Sentencing & Employment Services) to increase public safety through innovative services that reduce crime and incarceration, improve behavioral health, promote recovery and rehabilitation, and create opportunities for success. The Nathaniel Project is New York City's first alternative-to-incarceration program for adults with serious mental illness who are facing prison as the result of felony charges.

Honorable Mention Award Recipients

Adopt-A-Neighborhood Project (Legal Aid of Western Missouri , Kansas City, MO )

(Legal Aid of , ) Clean Water for Carolina Kids (RTI International, Durham, NC )

(RTI International, ) HomeAid  WORKS (HomeAid  America, Irvine, CA )

(HomeAid America, ) North Market (Pillsbury United Communities, Minneapolis, MN )

Celebrating the Community Partnership Award

Since 1996, the Community Partnership Award has recognized 250 partnerships from cities and towns across America. This year's winners, like past recipients, have focused on delivering solutions to critical challenges facing our country today.

To watch videos of past national award-winning programs, visit the Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award channel on YouTube.

About Mutual of America Financial Group

Mutual of America Financial Group is a leading provider of retirement services and investments to employers, employees and individuals. We offer personalized service at a competitive price to help individuals build and preserve assets for a financially secure future. Integrity, prudence and reliability are the values that have guided us since our inception in 1945 and that continue to serve us and our customers well. For more information, visit mutualofamerica.com, and connect with us via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Mutual of America Financial Group
WATERLOO  The Waterloo Career Centers cyber defense team placed in the top half among hundreds of participants during a recent competition.

Nicknamed Kuhls Kids, it was among 750 teams across the country and a limited number worldwide that had advanced to the CyberPatriot semifinals Jan. 21-22.

The 11-member team finished 308th overall in the event and 42nd in the Gold Division, according to a news release. The semifinalist teams were divided into platinum, gold, and silver divisions. Only the top 12 finishers in the semifinals are advancing to the CyberPatriot finals, which will be held in Bethesda, Maryland, in March.

Team members include Aaron Northey, Ally Saddoris, Anthony Madonna, Beau Smith, Caleb Moe, David Lupembe, Kile Rottinghaus, Martin Schmitz, Michael Rubenacker and Obed Kiabanzawoko. Students are from East and West high schools as well as the Cedar Falls, Hudson and Jesup school districts.

The Air Force Association designed the CyberPatriot youth education program and its competitions to generate interest in the cybersecurity field or other science, technology, engineering and mathematics career areas.

Students competed from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 22, the news release said, working to protect computer networks from attacks made by contest organizers. At points, they took brain breaks with an art competition and some Tetris game play. The team operated out of its career center classroom, where the computers are part of a network using a server separate from the Waterloo Community School District.

It had qualified for the semifinals with a first-place finish in December during the state CyberPatriot competition. Overall, the team came in around 600th among the 5,000 teams competing the in U.S. and internationally during that event.

Kyle Kuhlers, an information technology instructor at the career center, and Matt Goodman, the West High Air Force Junior ROTC instructor, are advisers of a cybersecurity club that spawned the team. According to the news release, they are excited and encouraged to see how the club stepped up its learning for the latest competition.

Kuhlers, who inspired the team nickname, said he was extremely pleased since this was the first time the students participated in the CyberPatriot competition.

The club meets every Tuesday night along with cyber professionals who help guide the students. Team members will now start preparing for PicoCTF, Iowa State Universitys high school cyber defense competition, planned for April.

In addition, Kuhls Kids has been invited to Orlando, Florida, to participate in the U.S. Department of Energy CyberForce high school competition June 30-July 1.
Former oil secretary Tarun Kapoor was on Thursday selected to head India's oil and gas regulator PNGRB, sources said.

Kapoor, who superannuated as secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on November 30, 2021, was selected to be chairman of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) after interviews of over a dozen candidates.

His candidature will now go to the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet for ratification and once approved, he would take over.

Sources said as many as 13 candidates, including former chairmen of ONGC and a former director of IOC, had applied for the top job at PNGRB.

Out of these, the ministry shortlisted seven candidates.

Interviews were held by a search-cum-selection committee headed by V K Saraswat, Member (S&T), Niti Aayog on Thursday and Kapoor was picked for the top job.

Former Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) chairmen Subhash Kumar and Shashi Shanker as well as G K Satish, who superannuated as director for planning and business development from Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) a couple of months back, had applied for the top job.

Numaligarh Refinery Ltd (NRL) Managing Director Saumendra Kumar Barua and Indraprastha Gas Ltd (IGL) Managing Director Asit Kumar Jana were among those who had applied.

The shortlisted candidates for interview included Kumar, Satish, Barua, Jana, Virendra Nath Datt, OSD to chairman of GAIL (India) Ltd and former CPCL MD Surendra Nath Pandey.

Shanker was not shortlisted.

Kapoor was selected in response to the government re-advertising the post of chairman, PNGRB, in November.

The committee -- which also comprises secretaries to the ministries of oil and commerce, secretary legal affairs and economic affairs secretary -- had in June 2021 picked up former power secretary Sanjeev Nandan Sahai. But, that appointment was not confirmed and so the post was re-advertised.

Other candidates interviewed on June 2 included retired bureaucrat Avinash Kumar Srivastava, former ONGC chairman Shashi Shanker and former ONGC director Sanjay Kumar Moitra.

The post of chairman, PNGRB, has been lying vacant since December 4, 2020, when Dinesh K Sarraf completed his three-year term.

The Board, which comprises four members besides the chairman, is almost defunct with just one serving member.

Former GAIL directors Gajendra Singh and A K Tiwari are currently the two members of the PNGRB.

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Lena Dunham was spotted enjoying a sunny vacation day in Tulum, Mexico with her husband Luis Feller, 35.

The 35-year-old Girls creator showed off her funky fashion flair while strolling on the beach as she sported quirky patterned green slacks and an army green t-shirt.

The couple - who tied the knot in September 2021 - have been enjoying their vacation since last week, with Lena posting social media updates of their activities.

Beach day: Lena Dunham was spotted enjoying a sunny vacation day in Tulum, Mexico on Wednesday

The writer and director looked to be in good spirits as she held up her phone on the beach and appeared to Facetime somebody.

She then made her way over to sit near her husband's lounger as the two spoke to a resort worker.

Meanwhile her British-Peruvian husband sported baby blue swimming trunks as he relaxed and soaked in the sun.

Quirky style: The 35-year-old Girls creator showed off her funky fashion flair while strolling on the beach as she sported quirky patterned green pants and an olive green t-shirt

It comes after Lena shared a glimpse of her trip on Monday, posting adorable Instagram snaps of her and the musician.

Lena wore a low-cut red dress and captioned the photos writing, 'Mi esposo es un esposo de Instagram (Lu thinks it doesnt translate very well in Spanish, but damn I got me an Instagram husband!)'

The couple began dating in January 2021 after a mutual friend set them up on a blind date.

Lounging: She then made her way over to sit near her husband's lounger as the two spoke to a resort worker

They married in London at Sohos Union Club, where the actress wore three Christopher Kane custom dresses.

In a recent interview with the The Hollywood Reporter Lena shared that since getting married she has been considering adoption.

'I'll be 36 this year. I don't feel like turning 38 without a child,' she revealed.

Dunham has been open about her desire to become a mother and her struggle with infertility after having her cervix, uterus, and one ovary removed when she was 31 due to chronic endometriosis.

Married bliss: The star has been sharing vacation updates on her social media, recently posting a loved-up snap of her in a low-cut red dress

She has previously undergone in vitro fertilization, as documented in her essay for Harper's Magazine's December 2020.

Unfortunately the procedure didn't succeed, and Dunham shared the great toll it took on her body.

'IVF destroyed my body,' she wrote.

'Subjecting [my body] to such excruciating pain, only to come to the end and learn those eggs were not viable after working so hard through illness and discomfort and going through anxiety and depression, it is just clearly not something I can ever repeat,' she shared.

Happy: The couple tied the knot in September 2021 in London at Sohos Union Club; Pictured Aug 1, 2021 in London

'This journey has forced me to rethink what motherhood will look like,' she later told PEOPLE magazine.

Lena rose to fame as the creator and star of the hit HBO series Girls which followed the antics of twenty-something women coming of age in New York City.

The series came to an end in 2017, and the New York native has been busy with new projects, including her latest movie, Sharp Stick, which she has written, directed, produced and also stars in.
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ISIS' now-dead leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, otherwise known as 'The Professor,' had a complicated history, where he once served as a U.S. informant and more recently had a $10 million bounty on his head from Washington.

Al-Qurayshi, also known as Abdullah Qardash, was nicknamed The Professor or The Destroyer because of his reputation as a brutal legislator - is known as a cruel but popular figure among the ISIS rank-and-file.

He replaced Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi after al-Baghdadi blew himself up with a suicide vest during a U.S. raid in 2019. Al-Qurayshi is believed to be a former officer in Saddam Hussein's military who forged an alliance with al-Baghdadi in prison before becoming his enforcer and chief policymaker.

Al-Qurayshi, also known as Abdullah Qardash, was nicknamed The Professor or The Destroyer because of his reputation as a brutal legislator

Al-Qurayshi was once known to U.S. officials as a cooperative informant, who divulged details to American forces on the Islamic State in Iraq. He was captured in 2007 or 2008, and spent months in an American detention camp in Iraq.

Defense Department documents described as an at-times 'cooperative' informant who under interrogation revealed details on the group that he would go on to lead.

According to a statement by Amaq, ISIS's press agency, Baghdadi appointed Al-Qurayshi to run the group's day-to-day operations in August 2019, making him the heir-apparent after his former boss killed himself during the raid by US forces in Syria.

In 2020, the U.S. doubled the bounty on the new ISIS leader's head to $10 million. But al-Qurayshi maintained a low profile -he did not appear in public, and rarely released any audio recordings. His influence and day-to-day involvement in the groups operations is not known, and he has no known successor.

Al-Qurayshi - also known as Hajji Abdullah al-Afari - was born in Tal Afar, a Sunni-majority town in Iraq, in 1976 - before joining the military while Saddam Hussein ruled the country.

Following the invasion of Iraq by the US in 2003 and President Bush's move to disband the country's military, he found himself locked in jail accused of having links to al-Qaeda.

Al-Qurayshi was known to U.S. officials as a cooperative informant, who divulged details to American forces on the Islamic State in Iraq

In 2020, the U.S. doubled the bounty on the new ISIS leader's head to $10 million, as they released this photo of him

Languishing in a cell at Camp Bucca, al-Qurayshi formed a close bond with Baghdadi, who was then fomenting the extremist religious code that would provide the ideological grounding for the death cult that became ISIS.

After his release al-Qurashi served as a religious commissar and a general sharia judge for al-Qaeda, according to researchers at the S. Rajartnam School of International Studies in Singapore.

Al-Qurayshi was tasked with establishing an institute for training judges and clergymen in the campus of al-Imam al-Adham College in Mosul, likely in part where 'The Professor' nickname came from.

When ISIS emerged as a splinter group from Al-Qaeda's Syrian branch he changed allegiances, where he became Baghdadi's enforcer.

Working close to Baghdadi,he was responsible for eliminating anyone who disagreed with his style of leadership, which is where he earned his other nickname, 'The Destroyer'.

From there he became the group's chief policymaker and legislator, known for enforcing its strict brand of Islam and Sharia Law punishments.

Caliphate leader: Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi detonated his own suicide vest during the targeted raid on his lair in Syria's Idlib province and killed three of his children in the blast. He is shown in a still from a video released in April, having not been seen since he spoke at the Grand Mosque in Mosul in 2014

A poster advertising a $10 million U.S. reward for information about al Qurayshi is pictured above

He is thought to have personally welcomed Baghdadi into Mosul in 2014 after ISIS took the city - announcing their presence as the world's foremost terror group.

It was from the minaret of the Great Mosque of al-Nuri in Mosul that Baghdadi gave a speech announcing the formation of ISIS's so-called Caliphate.

In capturing Mosul, ISIS had killed thousands of Yazidi residents, and enslaved Yazidi women under the guise of enforcing Sharia law.

There were disagreements among ISIS leadership about enslaving the Yazidi women, but it was al-Qurayshi led the organization's more extremist leaders in insisting on it, according to News Lines Magazine.

President Joe Biden said al-Qurayshi was directly responsible for the prison strike, as well as the mass killings of the Yazidi people in Iraq in 2014.

'He was responsible for the recent brutal attack on a prison in northeast Syria ... He was the driving force behind the genocide of the Yazidi people,' Biden said Thursday. 'We all remember the gut-wrenching stories, mass slaughters that wiped out entire villages, thousands of women and young girls sold into slavery, rape used as a weapon of war.'

On August 7, 2019 Amaq announced that al-Qurayshi had taken over day-to-day running of the terror group, while Baghdadi concentrated on drumming up religious fervour in the group's aims.

The selection of al-Qurayshi drummed up debate within ISIS, even reaching its members in prison, over whether he was of Turkmen or Arab origin. The 'caliph' of ISIS must be a descendant of the prophet Mohammed, therefore an Arab.

People inspect the destroyed house where the ISIS leader was staying

An aerial view of wreckages around the site after an operation carried out by US forces targeting a high ranking jihadist in northern Syria last night

A Syrian man takes a picture of a blood soaked kitchen at the scene of a US anti-terror raid in Atmeh, Idlib

Several pictured that have emerged from the scene show considerable damage to the outside of the house, with blood spattering the walls inside

Al-Qurayshi was keen to prove his Arab origin. Until 2020, U.S. and Iraqi officials believed the head of ISIS was a Turkman, which they weaponized to undermine his claim to leadership. Late reports confirmed his Arab descent.

Al-Qurayshi spent his last days in Idlib province, an area held by insurgent groups hostile to IS.

Al-Qurayshi set off a bomb that killed himself as well as members of this family, the White House said.

Thirteen were killed, including six children and four women during the mission, which involved 24 Special Operations commandos backed by attack jets, Reaper drones and helicopter gunships.

The raid targeted a large house in Atmeh in the Idlib region of Syria where the ISIS leader was hiding. The two-story house was left with its top floor shattered and blood spattered inside. A journalist on assignment for The Associated Press and several residents noted that they saw body parts scattered near the site.

Al-Arabiya TV said three of the four women who were killed in the raid might have been the wives of the extremist leader. It is common for members of extremists group to be married to up to four women, which is allowed under Muslim tradition.
BATON ROUGE  Black residents and civil rights groups on Wednesday objected strongly to a Republican proposal to redraw the districts for the state Senate, pushing for at least two more districts that would likely elect Black senators.

The concerns arose as Senate President Page Cortez, R-Lafayette, pitched his proposal to the Senate and Governmental Affairs Committee, explaining that it was based on technical strategies to ensure that all districts match representation based on population.

But more than 80 people filled out cards signaling their opposition to Cortezs proposed outline, and 20 of them voiced their concerns to the committee.

Some supported an alternative proposal by Sen. Ed Price, D-Gonzales, who would redraw the maps to include two more districts than Cortezs plan  one in Shreveport and one near Baton Rouge  that would include a majority of Black voters.

The 2020 Census showed an increase in minority population in Louisiana and a small decrease in white population.

But Cortezs proposal, Senate Bill 1, would leave the number of likely minority seats at 11 of the 39 in the Senate. Prices proposal would increase that number to 13 to align it with Census data showing that almost one-third of the states population is Black.

Because Senate Bill 1 basically preserves the status quo, we believe that it really doesnt increase the Black representation that we need, said Chris Kaiser, the advocacy director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana.

Constituents packed not only the hearing room but an additional overflow room.

Committee members and minority advocates said Cortezs plan reduced the opportunities for Black representation in the senate.

We, as people of color, are a third of the state, and I think we should be heard, said Shreveport Reverend Asriel McLain. He said that Louisiana is shaped like a boot proudly, but, statistically, we are at the bottom of the shoe. Redistricting gets underway: Battle lines are being drawn. How will new districts shake out?

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Analysis: Could Louisiana draw a second majority-minority congressional district?

Price, who sits on the governmental affairs committee, said that if the population of the minority is increasing and the population of the majority is decreasing, then why shouldnt we look at the possibility of adding another minority district?

Applause erupted after Prices statement. But Cortez said he did not think that this approach was legitimate as data shows a very low voter turnout from minority voters in rural areas.

The minority is going to have a higher number of voting-age population, but they wont vote, Cortez said. They wont elect the candidate of their choice, and thats a violation of the Voting Rights Act.

Cortez said the Senate would have to gerrymander districts to create more minority-majority ones.

At one point, Cortez also commented that the redistricting process is the ultimate exercise of the herding of cats, but its the only time that all the cats care.

Price argued that the federal Voting Rights Act specifically addresses giving voters the opportunity to elect their desired senators.

Opportunity is all we can ask for, Price said. It is up to the person in that district to get out there and make sure that its constituents come out and vote.

However, Sen. Sharon Hewitt, the chairwoman of the committee, reminded the members and constituents that opportunity can be defined differently.

The idea of equal opportunity for minority voters continued to arise as frustrated advocates demanded more representation for minorities, warning the senators of lawsuits and the possibility of leaving the state altogether.

FOR SUBSCRIBERS: Check out these 7 proposed options for Louisiana's congressional redistricting

If the state fails to draw maps equitably, I will probably consider leaving the state, said Codee Jones, the president of the Black Student Union at LSU. My peers and I cant take these unfair practices any longer.

Jones was not the only student who contested the bill. Several students from Dillard University, Southern University, Tulane and LSU also demanded change to the maps.

These communities have to be fairly represented, said Spencer Jones, a junior at Dillard University. Our voices are necessary during the redistricting process as this will affect us well into our adulthood Will you prioritize the future of the state of Louisiana?

One speaker felt that the advocates arguments were not a priority to Cortez and the committee as only three committee members were present when he spoke. He also claimed Cortez was constantly looking at his phone during the session.

This isnt a dispute of political morality on either side of the aisle, that speaker, Dillard University student, DeAndre Bell, said. So what exactly do you have to lose?

The committee, which is charged with initiating the redistricting process in the Senate, expects to vote on the maps in the next few days and send its recommendation to the Senate floor.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Louisiana redistricting session off to rough start for Republicans
(Newser)  The parents of the teen accused of shooting up a Michigan high school in November, killing four students, may be trying to boost each other up during hearings by sending romantic signals across the courtroom and over Zoom, but they're now being hit with a warning to quit it. Prosecutors filed a motion Tuesday in Oakland County District Court asking the judge in the case of James and Jennifer Crumbley, both charged with involuntary manslaughter, to order the couple to cut it out. In both online and in-person court appearances in December and January, prosecutors say, the Crumbleys waved at each other and "made other non-verbal signals," reports NBC News.

The motion notes that at one such meeting in December, James Crumbley, "with his mask partially pulled down, mouthed what appeared to be 'I love you'" to his wife, per the Detroit News. "The courtroom is not a place for blowing kisses and sending secret signals," said Oakland County Chief Assistant Prosecutor David Williams in a statement, noting such gestures make a "mockery" of the couple's alleged crimes. "This is a time for families to pursue justice." The motion adds that family members of those who died in the Oxford High School shooting have been asking why the couple is allowed to be so lovey-dovey during court proceedings, and that the gestures are "traumatic" for them.

One attorney not linked to the case, however, thinks the motion is "ludicrous," saying the mouthed comments took place during a break in official proceedings and that the Crumbleys have a right to communicate with each other. Prosecutors have accused the Crumbleys of ignoring red flags about their son in the weeks leading up to the shooting, instead focusing on financial issues, substance abuse problems, and Jennifer Crumbley's alleged extramarital affairs.

While attorneys for the couple haven't publicly commented on the prosecutors' request, the motion notes they've "indicated a willingness" to tell their clients to halt their courtroom signaling. Their son, 15-year-old Ethan Crumbley, has been charged as an adult and is facing 24 counts, including first-degree murder. All three have pleaded not guilty, per the Detroit Free Press. (Read more Ethan Crumbley stories.)
A winter storm passing through Ohio began to drop freezing rain on Licking County on Thursday morning.

The icy conditions prompted Licking County Sheriff Randy Thorp around noon Thursday to issue a Level 2 snow emergency, meaning only essential travel should be made.

Newark weather: Get the latest, up-to-date forecast and conditions, pinpointed for Newark and Licking County

Winter Storm Landon updates: Ice, snow affecting roads, schools in Licking County

A plow drives through the intersection of First and East Main Streets near the Licking County Court House on Thursday, Feb 3, 2022.

AEP Ohio's website reported some power outages in the Nashport area early into the storm.

Earlier in the week, the National Weather Service in Wilmington forecasted Licking County to receive about two to four inches of snow, along with two-tenths to four-tenths of an inch of ice. The forecast later changed to predict three to seven inches of snow and little to no ice accumulation. On Friday and Saturday nights, temperatures for the area are expected to dip to near or below zero degrees.

Warming centers will be open 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. Friday and Monday at The Disciple Factory in Newark, and the same time period Saturday and Sunday at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Newark.

Winter Storm Landon: Licking County could get 2-4 inches of snow, quarter to half-inch ice

In anticipation of potential weather impacts, Newark City Schools decided to hold an at-home learning day for its students on Thursday. Other area districts also closed for Thursday including, Northridge, Lakewood, Southwest Licking, Licking Heights, Johnstown-Monroe, North Fork and Heath. The Career and Technology Education Centers of Licking County held a remote learning day.

Other organizations and businesses closed their offices for Thursday, with some staff working from home. Newark police also closed their lobby on Thursday in anticipation of the storm.

Precipitation was expected to transition to snow after 3 p.m. Thursday in Licking County through Friday morning.

This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Winter Storm Landon ices Licking County, prompts closings
A Holocaust survivor who endured Auschwitz before successfully taking deniers of the genocide to court in the 1980s has died aged 95.

Mel Mermelstein was deported from Hungary in 1944 along with his parents, two sisters and a brother to the Nazis' most prolific death camp in German-occupied Poland when he was just 17 as part of Hitler's campaign to exterminate the Jews.

Mermelstein was sent on a death march prior to the liberation of Auschwitz in January 1945, but was eventually liberated from Buchenwald in April of the same year.

He was the only survivor of his family after his female relatives were gassed upon arrival at Auschwitz and his male relatives perished from starvation and exhaustion.

Years later, after emigrating to California following the end of World War II, Mermelstein made good on a promise he said he had made to his dying father while held captive at Auschwitz .

In 1985, the former Auschwitz inmate successfully sued an organization which denied that the Holocaust had ever taken place for tens of thousands of dollars in damages in a Los Angeles Court, and convinced a judge to accept the gassing of the Jews as an indisputable fact.

He later told the Los Angeles Times in 1991: 'I made a promise to my father in the camp that I would tell what happened if I did survive.'

Mermelstein's daughter Edie told the Washington Post that her father had passed away as a result of Covid-19 complications.

A Holocaust survivor who endured Auschwitz before successfully taking deniers of the genocide to court in the 1980s has died aged 95. Mel Mermelstein was deported from Hungary in 1944 along with his parents, two sisters and a brother to the Nazi's most prolific death camp in German-occupied Poland when he was just 17 as part of Hitler's campaign to exterminate the Jews. (Mermelstein pictured at his Huntington Beach museum exhibit in 1999)

Liberated prisoners of Buchenwald concentration camp near Weimar. Picture taken on 16 April 1945 in the barrack 56 of the small camp. Mel Mermelstein is pictured top right with his face partially obscured

After being liberated from Buchenwald, Mermelstein headed for the US and made a home in Huntington Beach, California.

But years later he became involved in a highly publicized lawsuit when he took down an organization of Holocaust deniers in Los Angeles Superior Court after they had baited him.

The Institute for Historical Review was an organization ran by anti-Semite Willis Carto which pushed for a revision of history to show that the Holocaust was nothing more than a fictional ploy designed to manufacture sympathy for Jews, despite overwhelming evidence to suggest otherwise.

Mermelstein was first targeted along with several other Holocaust survivors by the Institute in 1979 when it wrote to the press, publicly announcing that it would award a $50,000 cash prize to anyone able to 'could prove that the Nazis operated gas-chambers to exterminate Jews during World War II.'

In a particularly obnoxious stunt, the Institute delivered letters to several Holocaust survivors inviting them to participate, but as its members later came to discover, they had 'picked on the wrong Jew' in the words of Mermelstein.

Urged on by the promise to his father, the Auschwitz survivor duly accepted the Insitute's challenge, submitting an account of his experience at Auschwitz and demanded that it paid the $50,000 directly to him.

Holocaust survivor Mel Mermelstein has died 95. In this image, Mermelstein, aged 59, recalls the horrors he experienced as a prisoner of the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1944 during a Superior Court trial a member of the Institute for Historical Review, which claims the Holocaust is a myth

When the Institute refused, Mermelstein enlisted the help of a public-interest lawyer sued the group for the $50,000 in prize money and $17 million in damages, alleging they had breached a contract, intentionally inflicted emotional distress on Holocaust survivors, and denied the 'established fact' of the Holocaust.

Though Mermelstein did not win his $17 million claim, the parties ultimately reached a settlement in which the Institute paid the full $50,000 plus another $40,000 in damages, and was required to publicly apologize for denying the existence of the Holocaust after a judge issued a 'judicial notice' - essentially recognizing it as an indisputable fact.

'They caved in,' Mermelstein said.

'Not only that, but we proved they cannot get away with taking such a barbaric event as I have been through and turn it into a dagger to hurt me with.'

Mermelstein's legal battles continued after he sued the Institute, but he continued to stand up for the memory of his family and millions of other Jews who were exterminated under the Nazi regime.

In 1986, he was awarded $5.25 million in damages in a lawsuit against Swedish publisher Ditlieb Felderer, a defendant from the Institute who refused to participate in the earlier settlement but who had allegedly continued to torment Mermelstein.

'Money was never the thing in my mind in the first place,' Mermelstein declared at the time.

'No feeling human being in his right mind would try to prove that this didn't happen. This is like digging up the dead and kicking them around  and the dead include my mother and two sisters.'

Concentration Camp Auschwitz, Hungarian women who have been selected to work at Auschwitz-Birkenau. June, 1944. Their heads have been shaved to control the lice that spreads typhus

The arrival of Hungarian Jews in Auschwitz-Birkenau, in German-occupied Poland, June 1944. Between May 2nd and July 9th, more than 430,000 Hungarian Jews were deported to Auschwitz

Mermelstein returned to Auschwitz in 1967 and made intermittent visits over the course of several years in an attempt to collect a series of artefacts proving the Holocaust had taken place for historical record.

He later built a small museum which still exists in Huntington Beach, California, and founded the Auschwitz Study Foundation which 'serves local students through art and Holocaust education'.

In 1991, Mr. Mermelstein was portrayed by actor Leonard Nimoy in TV-film dramatization of his story, 'Never Forget.'

Historian and Holocaust scholar Deborah Lipstadt, author of the 1993 book 'Denying the Holocaust: The Growing Assault on Truth and Memory,' said: 'Mel Mermelstein did a gutsy thing way back in the 1980s when he first took on Holocaust deniers.

'Many people thought it was a foolhardy thing to do, but he went ahead and did it anyway, and he won.'

He is survived by his wife Emma Jane Nance of Long Beach California, four children, five grandchildren and a great grandson.
ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- China's successful experience in poverty reduction and agricultural development is welcomed in Africa, a senior African Union (AU) official has said.

Speaking to Xinhua on Thursday, Josefa Sacko, AU Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture, said China can replicate its successful experience in poverty reduction and agricultural development in its engagements across Africa.

"It is very important from their experience, because I had the opportunity to go to China and I saw the way they transform the rural area into urban area. I hope they will do the same for ours," the AU Rural Economy and Agriculture told Xinhua.

"This could alleviate poverty because it creates jobs, because it is not only in the agriculture activity but also others... So, there are a lot of opportunities," she added.

Commending China's successful poverty reduction endeavors, the commissioner said Africa should replicate China's successes towards reducing poverty, with particular emphasis on rural development.

"The way they did their poverty reduction program, it is really welcomed in Africa. It is really in the area of rural development, they have to bring in infrastructures, bring knowledge, and technology," she said.

Sacko stressed that China's poverty reduction and agricultural development program engagements can also propel African youth's future prospects in developing rural areas towards better economic centers.

"The (African) youth today, they don't want to be in the remote village areas. They want to have life even in the village like the way they did it in China," she said.

She, in particular, welcomed initiatives announced during the 8th Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in November last year, mainly the poverty reduction and agricultural development program which is one of the nine programs proposed at the conference. 
Sarah Jessica Parker has reflected on her final few days with Willie Garson before his death from pancreatic cancer last September at the age of 57.

Speaking in the And Just Like That.... documentary, Parker - who was the only person on set who knew of Garson's illness - became emotional as she discussed their last moments together.

'If he could've stayed one more day, two more hours, three more weeks, he would've summoned the strength and pushed away the terrible pain that he was in,' the 56-year-old actress mused. 'I mean like pain, like physical pain.'

'He was in terrible pain': Sarah Jessica Parker reflects on her final days with Willie Garson as he battled terminal cancer filming And Just Like That... (pictured July 24)

She continued: 'God, I can't believe I can't call Willie. I cannot believe I can't call him. I just can't believe it.

'And he would always tell me that he was the most popular character on the show - and he was not making a joke. He was quite serious. I was like, "If you say so!" Turned out, he might've been right.'

Garson - last publicly seen August 1 - reprised his role as talent manager Stanford Blatch in the first three episodes of the Sex and the City spin-off before suddenly moving to Japan.

Sarah said: 'If he could've stayed one more day, two more hours, three more weeks, he would've summoned the strength and pushed away the terrible pain that he was in'

SATC throwback: Sarah was just as close to Garson as her author-podcaster character Carrie Bradshaw (pictured in 1998)

AJLT producer-star Kristin Davis, who last saw Willie while filming Mr. Big's funeral, teared up in the doc: 'He didn't want us to know because he didn't want it to be about that.'

Parker was just as close to Garson as her author-podcaster character Carrie Bradshaw, who once considered marrying 'Stanny' so he could inherit a fortune from his blue-blooded grandmother.

Executive producer-director Michael Patrick King had originally written Stanford in all 10 episodes, which would've seen him go through a mid-life crisis and split with his husband Anthony Marentino (Mario Cantone).

Heartbreaking: Cynthia Nixon, Willie, Sarah and Kristin Davis are pictured on-set

'There was a series of really fun, flirty, hilarious confidante scenes with Carrie that I loved. That old, old, very specific chemistry that Carrie and Stanford have, which is based totally on the uniqueness of Willie and Sarah Jessica's history,' the 67-year-old showrunner told Variety on Thursday.

'Life and death is one thing in fiction: When it's real, it's not funny or cute. I didn't want to even flirt narratively with cute business about where he is. I knew the audience would never invest in it, because they knew he was never coming back.

'It's the most threadbare writing I've ever done just to move him along without much maneuvering, because it was just so sad. There was no way I could write myself out of that in any charming, cute way.'

What could have been: Stanford was written in all 10 episodes, which would've seen him go through a mid-life crisis and split with his husband Anthony Marentino (L, Mario Cantone)

The Before I Go actor is survived by his 20-year-old son Nathen, whose 2009 adoption at age seven was 'the honor' of his life.

Back in October 2020, Willie filmed his role as Willie in the indie comedy pilot Duke of the Valley, but it's unclear if that will ever see the light of day.

Vince Van Patten and Duke Van Patten's half-hour scripted series - based on the memoirs of the late Dick Van Patten - also featured Caitlyn Jenner, Eileen Davidson, and Thai Fong.

Only child: The Before I Go actor is survived by his 20-year-old son Nathen (R, pictured May 23), whose 2009 adoption at age seven was 'the honor' of his life

As for the prospect of a season two of AJLT, Parker is 'definitely' down for more and HBO Max CCO Casey Bloys 'couldn't be happier with' the reception and 'phenomenal viewership.'

'Michael and I spoke two weeks ago, and said: "Okay, when are we going to talk about this?"' the two-time Emmy winner told Variety.

'There's a calendar and you don't want to let too much time pass. There feels like there's momentum.'

And Just Like That currently holds a 60% critic approval rating (out of 65 reviews) and a dismal 30% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Fans can now stream the final episode - titled Seeing the Light - as well as the accompanying documentary on HBO Max.
The 120 pages report analyzes the Power Battery Management System Market by Type (Motive battery and Stationary battery) and Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and MEA).

The power battery management system market is driven by the rising demand for smart devices. The adoption of smart devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smart wearables such as smartwatches, smart bands, and smart glasses is growing at a significant rate globally. Manufacturers of smart devices are focusing on enhancing the user experience by improving the user interface, network connectivity, and other features. The inclusion of new features in smart devices is increasing the usage of power, which is necessitating the need for better power management to ensure a good battery backup. This is one of the major factors driving the demand for power battery management systems.

In addition, increasing safety parameters and regulations worldwide and increased investment in infrastructure are anticipated to boost the growth of the power battery management system market. However, factors such as the demand-supply gap of battery components, low awareness of power battery management systems in developing countries, and stringent regulations for lead-acid batteries might reduce the growth potential in the market.

Some of key Power Battery Management System Players:

Eberspacher Gruppe GmbH & Co. KG: The company offers power battery management system that includes automotive electronics, bus systems, exhaust technology, electrical vehicle heaters, bus ac systems, automotive electronics, and many more, under the brand name of Eberspacher Gruppe GmbH & Co. KG.

Elithion Inc.: The company offers power battery management system that includes large li-ion packs, radio frequency, analog signal, power management and battery modules, stationary battery installations, under the brand name of Elithion Inc.

Epec LLC: The company offers power battery management system that includes battery packs, printed circuit boards, user interfaces, cable assemblies, remote sensing systems, and dead front panels, design, reverse engineering, and value-added services, under the brand name of Epec LLC.

Ewert Energy Systems Inc.: The company offers power battery management system that provides solutions for plug-in hybrid, solar systems, grid stabilization, and other energy storage applications, under the brand name of Ewert Energy Systems Inc.

Leclanche SA: The company offers power battery management system that provides high-quality energy storage solutions, telegraphy, electric bell and signaling work, and others based on lithium-ion cell technology, under the brand name of Leclanche SA.

Download Our Free Sample for highlights on other dominant players listed in the report

Power Battery Management System Market Type Outlook (Revenue, USD bn, 2021-2026)

Motive battery - size and forecast 2021-2026

Stationary battery - size and forecast 2021-2026

Power Battery Management System Market Geography Outlook (Revenue, USD bn, 2021-2026)

APAC - size and forecast 2021-2026

North America - size and forecast 2021-2026

- size and forecast 2021-2026 Europe - size and forecast 2021-2026

- size and forecast 2021-2026 South America - size and forecast 2021-2026

- size and forecast 2021-2026 MEA - size and forecast 2021-2026

By type, the motive battery segment generated maximum revenue in the market in 2021. The segment is driven by benefits offered by motive batteries such as reduced CO2 emissions, reduced noise pollution, and efficient power storage capabilities. The market growth in the segment will be significant during the forecast period.

By geography, APAC is offering several growth opportunities for market players. The region currently holds 63% of the global market share. The growth of the market in APAC can be attributed to the increased investments in the automobile, shipbuilding, and construction industries. In addition, the increased adoption of EVs in China is contributing to the growth of the regional market.

Request a Free Sample to Identify top-performing segments and regions in the market.

Related Reports:

Commercial Aircraft Battery Management System Market by Geography Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026

Drone Flight Management System Market by Component and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2021-2025

Power Battery Management System Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 19.06% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 22.62 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 16.25 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and MEA Performing market contribution APAC at 63% Key consumer countries China, US, Germany, Japan, and India Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Eberspacher Gruppe GmbH & Co. KG, Elithion Inc., Epec LLC, Ewert Energy Systems Inc., Leclanche SA, Navitas System LLC, Nuvation Energy, NXP Semiconductors NV, Renesas Electronics Corp., and Texas Instruments 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.

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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.

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DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Camera Module Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2022-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global camera module market reached a value of US$ 36.60 Billion in 2021. Looking forward, the publisher expects the market to reach US$ 63.10 Billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.70% during 2022-2027. Keeping in mind the uncertainties of COVID-19, they are continuously tracking and evaluating the direct as well as the indirect influence of the pandemic on different end use sectors. These insights are included in the report as a major market contributor



A camera module is designed to capture photographic or video type images. It forms an integral component of sensor simulation, which validates camera-based assistance and automated driving functions. A camera module involves lens, infrared filter (IR filter), aperture, digital signal processing (DSP), and a soft board, which allows for camera simulation based on the light propagation and measurement of the imager chip. In addition to this, it can be used to extend the functionality of the camera for data processing algorithms and include custom models. As a result, a camera module is being widely used in video conferencing, security systems, and real-time monitoring as a video input device



The increasing demand for consumer electronics represents the key factor driving the global camera module market growth. This can be attributed to its extensive utilization in smartphones, tablets, interior navigation, satellite space imaging, and picture storage. Moreover, the rising awareness regarding the associated benefits of camera module over conventional charged-coupled device (CCD) sensors, such as lower power consumption, faster frame rate, and cost-effectiveness, is catalyzing the market growth. Rapid urbanization and industrialization, particularly in emerging economies, is further facilitating the need for advanced security and surveillance systems.

This, in turn, is intensifying the product adoption across smart homes, government buildings, and commercial complexes, thus creating a positive outlook for the market. Other than this, the emergence of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) has escalated the demand for high-definition (HD) cameras in the military sector. Besides this, the development of advanced internet technology, improvement of network speed, and the continuous maturity of photographic imaging device technology are projected to drive the market further

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined along with the profiles of the key players being ams AG, Chicony Electronics Co. Ltd., Cowell E Holdings Inc., LG Innotek Co. Ltd., LITE-ON Technology Corporation, OFILM Group Co. Ltd., Partron Co. Ltd., Primax Electronics Ltd., Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co. Ltd. (Samsung Group), Sharp Corporation, STMicroelectronics and Toshiba Corporation



Key Questions Answered in This Report:

How has the global camera module market performed so far and how will it perform in the coming years?

What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the global camera module market?

What are the key regional markets?

What is the breakup of the market based on the component?

What is the breakup of the market based on the focus type?

What is the breakup of the market based on the interface?

What is the breakup of the market based on the pixels?

What is the breakup of the market based on the process?

What is the breakup of the market based on the application?

What are the various stages in the value chain of the industry?

What are the key driving factors and challenges in the industry?

What is the structure of the global camera module market and who are the key players?

What is the degree of competition in the industry?

Key Topics Covered:



1 Preface



2 Scope and Methodology



3 Executive Summary



4 Introduction

4.1 Overview

4.2 Key Industry Trends



5 Global Camera Module 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 Image Sensors

6.1.1 Market Trends

6.1.2 Key Segments

6.1.2.1 CMOS Image Sensors

6.1.2.2 CCD Image Sensors

6.1.3 Market Forecast

6.2 Lens Modules

6.2.1 Market Trends

6.2.2 Market Forecast

6.3 Voice Coil Motors

6.3.1 Market Trends

6.3.2 Market Forecast

6.4 Others

6.4.1 Market Trends

6.4.2 Market Forecast



7 Market Breakup by Focus Type

7.1 Fixed Focus

7.1.1 Market Trends

7.1.2 Market Forecast

7.2 Autofocus

7.2.1 Market Trends

7.2.2 Market Forecast



8 Market Breakup by Interface

8.1 Camera Serial Interface

8.1.1 Market Trends

8.1.2 Market Forecast

8.2 Camera Parallel Interface

8.2.1 Market Trends

8.2.2 Market Forecast



9 Market Breakup by Pixels

9.1 Up to 7 MP

9.1.1 Market Trends

9.1.2 Market Forecast

9.2 8 to 13 MP

9.2.1 Market Trends

9.2.2 Market Forecast

9.3 Above 13 MP

9.3.1 Market Trends

9.3.2 Market Forecast



10 Market Breakup by Process

10.1 Flip-Chip Camera Module

10.1.1 Market Trends

10.1.2 Market Forecast

10.2 Chip-On-Board Camera Module

10.2.1 Market Trends

10.2.2 Market Forecast



11 Market Breakup by Application

11.1 Consumer Electronics

11.1.1 Market Trends

11.1.2 Market Forecast

11.2 Automotive

11.2.1 Market Trends

11.2.2 Market Forecast

11.3 Healthcare

11.3.1 Market Trends

11.3.2 Market Forecast

11.4 Industrial

11.4.1 Market Trends

11.4.2 Market Forecast

11.5 Security and Surveillance

11.5.1 Market Trends

11.5.2 Market Forecast

11.6 Aerospace and Defense

11.6.1 Market Trends

11.6.2 Market Forecast



12 Market Breakup by Region



13 SWOT Analysis



14 Value Chain Analysis



15 Porters Five Forces Analysis



16 Price Analysis



17 Competitive Landscape

17.1 Market Structure

17.2 Key Players

17.3 Profiles of Key Players

17.3.1 ams AG

17.3.1.1 Company Overview

17.3.1.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.1.3 Financials

17.3.2 Chicony Electronics Co. Ltd.

17.3.2.1 Company Overview

17.3.2.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.2.3 Financials

17.3.3 Cowell E Holdings Inc.

17.3.3.1 Company Overview

17.3.3.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.3.3 Financials

17.3.4 LG Innotek Co. Ltd.

17.3.4.1 Company Overview

17.3.4.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.4.3 Financials

17.3.4.4 SWOT Analysis

17.3.5 LITE-ON Technology Corporation

17.3.5.1 Company Overview

17.3.5.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.5.3 Financials

17.3.5.4 SWOT Analysis

17.3.6 OFILM Group Co. Ltd.

17.3.6.1 Company Overview

17.3.6.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.6.3 Financials

17.3.7 Partron Co. Ltd.

17.3.7.1 Company Overview

17.3.7.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.7.3 Financials

17.3.8 Primax Electronics Ltd.

17.3.8.1 Company Overview

17.3.8.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.8.3 Financials

17.3.9 Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co. Ltd. (Samsung Group)

17.3.9.1 Company Overview

17.3.9.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.9.3 Financials

17.3.9.4 SWOT Analysis

17.3.10 Sharp Corporation

17.3.10.1 Company Overview

17.3.10.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.10.3 Financials

17.3.10.4 SWOT Analysis

17.3.11 STMicroelectronics

17.3.11.1 Company Overview

17.3.11.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.11.3 Financials

17.3.11.4 SWOT Analysis

17.3.12 Toshiba Corporation

17.3.12.1 Company Overview

17.3.12.2 Product Portfolio

17.3.12.3 Financials

17.3.12.4 SWOT Analysis



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/mye0cx

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

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NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- National investment fraud lawyers KlaymanToskes express their support for the Financial Industry Regulatory Authoritys (FINRA) arbitration forum. On January 25, 2022, a judge in Georgia state court issued an Order overturning an arbitration award in favor of Wells Fargo (NYSE: WFC) which held that the firm and its counsel manipulated the arbitrator selection process. While we believe that the alleged conduct is both inappropriate and shocking and must be addressed, absent this misconduct, we continue to believe that FINRA arbitration remains the most equitable forum for investors.



Unlike litigation in a court of law, FINRA arbitration is a faster, less costly, and more efficient forum for investors to attempt a financial recovery. For instance, while court cases can span several years without a resolution, a FINRA arbitration has historically taken approximately 18 months to reach a conclusion. Importantly, approximately 69% of customer cases result in settlement. If investors had to litigate their cases in court, they would incur additional, substantial costs, such as deposition and transcript costs. Securities arbitration attorneys, including KlaymanToskes, historically have represented clients who are unable to fund their cases on a full contingency fee basis, including advancing their costs.

According to securities attorney Lawrence L. Klayman, Esq., The result of eliminating the FINRA arbitration process will limit investors opportunities to find a full contingency attorney given the additional costs incurred through the court forum. Every dispute resolution process - whether a court of law or equity has its issues. FINRA by far still remains the most equitable and accessible forum for investors. Securities litigation is a complex, expensive process. Both substantive and technical issues can arise and drag out a case for years on end. FINRA arbitration has a system developed to simplify and expedite this process leading to a faster, more affordable solution for people who have, in most instances, lost most or all of their assets due to fraud, misrepresentation, overconcentration, or other unfortunate circumstances.

Further, according to Klayman, [b]ecause FINRA arbitration is a court of equity, investors are afforded a greater opportunity to attempt recovery for claims that might otherwise be barred in a court of law. For instance, in a court of law, investors are subject to motion practice, such as motions to dismiss and motions for summary judgment, which could end their cases before they have an opportunity to be heard, which is irrespective of the costs of discovery. On the other hand, FINRA discourages motion practice thereby avoiding procedural obstacles commonly encountered in court. This is yet another important reason that will result in investors inability to hire attorneys to represent them on a full contingency basis.

For example, FINRA Rule 12504 provides that motions to dismiss a claim prior to the conclusion of a party's case in chief is discouraged in arbitration. According to Klaymans law partner, Steven D. Toskes, Esq., At the end of the day, our job is to recover the most amount of money for our clients, with the least amount of risk. The FINRA arbitration process allows our clients this opportunity.

When investors have a dispute with their brokerage firm or one of its brokers, they must file an arbitration claim through FINRA . Regardless of this requirement, there are times when investors benefit substantially by having a member of the securities industry who are experts in the field as an arbitrator sitting on the panel. According to Toskes, The reality is that there are times when we need industry trained panel members. For example, there are times when a case is so complex, an industry panel who has years of securities experience is warranted to fully understand the case presented. Whereas, an average juror with no securities knowledge, training, or hands-on experience would be less likely to understand the case at hand.

About KlaymanToskes

KlaymanToskes is a leading national securities law firm which practices exclusively in the field of securities arbitration on behalf of retail and institutional investors throughout the world in large and complex securities matters. KlaymanToskes has recovered more than $228 million for investors in FINRA arbitrations. KlaymanToskes has office locations in California, Florida, New York, and Puerto Rico.

Contact
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Chicago city officials hosted a meeting with local business owners Wednesday night as the city braces for protests opposing the early release of former police officer Jason Van Dyke, who was convicted of killing black teen Laquan McDonald in 2014.

Jordan Abudayyeh, a spokeswoman for Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, said Van Dyke was released Thursday morning for good behavior, though she declined to provide further details, including where he had been imprisoned.

City security officials spoke on Wednesday with concerned business owners and downtown stakeholders about planned protests after Van Dyke' was released having served less than half of his sentence.

Van Dyke, who is white, became the first Chicago officer in about half a century to be convicted of murder for an on-duty killing in 2018, and many black leaders hoped his conviction for second-degree murder and 16 counts of aggravated battery signaled a willingness to hold officers accountable.

But they now say word that he would be freed after serving about three years and four months of his sentence of six years and nine months, has turned the community again.

Jason Van Dyke (left) was released from prison on Thursday on early release for good behavior after he was convicted for shooting and killing black teenager Laquan McDonald (right)

Downtown Chicago is preparing for protests in reaction to Van Dyke's early release (Pictured: Demonstrators protest as they celebrate the verdict in the murder trial of Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke along Michigan Avenue on October 5, 2018)

City security officials including Mayor Lori Lightfoot's leading public safety aides, and top Chicago police commanders held a meeting with local businesses on Wednesday (Pictured: Protests erupted around Chicago on October 5, 2018 after Jason Van Dyke was found guilty)

The police presence in downtown Chicago will be increased this weekend to maintain the protest planned for Thursday and Friday (Pictured: Local residents and activists rejoiced in the streets of Chicago on October 5, 2018 after Jason Van Dyke was convicted of Laquan McDonald's killing)

Community groups and activists are planning to protest in downtown Chicago Thursday and Friday. They will begin at 3:30pm at Federal Plaza where demonstrators plan to deliver U.S. Attorney John Lausch a letter calling on him to bring federal charges against Van Dyke.

During the security call, police told local business owners that they did not anticipate disruptive demonstrations, but that police presence would be increased.

Van Dyke was flown into Illinois last Friday from the prison where he was being held. Last September, he was in Taylorville Correctional Center near Springfield but officials would not confirm if he was just released from there, ABC 7 reported.

The local news outlet confirmed with several law enforcement sources that Van Dyke is already in an Illinois halfway house for prisoners who are in the process of being released and just days away from being released from custody.

After his release, he will spend at least two years on parole.

Van Dyke was convicted of second-degree murder and 16 counts of aggravated battery with a firearm

However, the Governor's office has denied reports claiming that Van Dyke remains 'in the custody of the Illinois Department of Corrections.'

'For safety and security purposes, the Department cannot disclose any information regarding his current location or pending release from IDOC custody,' a spokesperson said.

The early release is widely viewed as a setback in the city's efforts to improve relations between its police department and black community.

'This is the ultimate illustration that black lives don't matter as much as other lives,' said the Rev. Marshall Hatch, a prominent minister on the city's West Side. 'To get that short amount of time for a murder sends a bad message to the community.'

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot made a similar point.

'I understand why this continues to feel like a miscarriage of justice, especially when many black and brown men get sentenced to so much more prison time for having committed far lesser crimes,' she said in a statement Thursday.

To give the teen and the community the justice it hoped it had with Van Dyke's conviction, the NAACP this week asked U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to bring federal civil rights charges against Van Dyke. McDonald's grandmother, Tracie Hunter, has asked for the same thing.

It's unclear whether or not Van Dyke will face federal charges.

But his release comes at a perilous time for the city and its police force. Chicago is experiencing a surge in violent crime and had more homicides last year than in any of in the last quarter century.

The city continues to pay multi-million settlements to victims of police abuse. And just this week, prosecutors said they would vacate the convictions of nearly 50 more people who were framed or falsely accused by police of drug crimes.

Black community leaders and McDonald's family are calling for federal charges to be brought against Van Dyke (Pictured: The grandmother of Laquan McDonald spoke out during a press conference on January 27 begging for Jason Van Dyke to remain behind bars)

Protestors in downtown Chicago plan to gather at Federal Plaza Thursday afternoon to deliver a letter calling for federal charges against Van Dyke (Pictured: Tanisha Hunter, Laquan McDonald's aunt, shared photos of her nephew during a press conference on January 27)

'Had Jason Van Dyke gotten one day in jail it would have been a victory because he was the first,' McDonald's great uncle, the Rev. Marvin Hunter said

The 2014 shooting eventually led to a court-ordered consent decree that resulted in several reforms, including the creation of a civilian-led police oversight board and new rules governing investigations into police shootings.

After the city refused to release the police video of McDonald's killing for more than a year and only did so after a judge ordered it to do so, it now must release such videos within 60 days.

But, while Lightfoot in her statement pointed to 'historic reforms' the city has made, changes have come slower than expected and the city has struggled to meet some of the consent decree's deadlines.

Her administration also tried to prevent a TV station from airing video of a botched police raid in which an innocent black woman was handcuffed while naked. This compared to former Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who was mayor at the time of the killing, fought in court the release of the McDonald video.

Ultimately, the botched raid led to a $2.9 million settlement with the woman, Anjanette Young. To Hatch and others, Van Dyke's early release is another reminder of what they already knew.

'It just reinforces this feeling of hopelessness in African American communities, and reinforces the thought that police can continue their oppressive behavior in those communities and be either exonerated or given light sentences,' said Chico Tillmon, a senior research fellow at the University of Chicago Crime Lab and a former gang member.

'I served 16 years and 3 months for conspiracy to sell drugs and somebody who committed murder, openly, publicly, did 3 1/2 years,' he said. 'This kind of thing happens over and over.'

Laquan was walking away from police on October 20, 2014, when Van Dyke shot him 16 times. Cops had been called to the area in Chicago where he was amid reports he was breaking into vehicles with a knife

Laquan was unarmed but was shot 16 times. He is shown falling to the ground as the shots from Van Dyke's gun ring out

Hatch's anger stems in part from a sense that the criminal justice system came tantalizingly close to finally working for a black victim of police violence before the judge called a legal audible by sentencing Van Dyke only for second-degree murder - a charge that allows defendants to serve half their sentences if they behave in prison - and not any of the 16 counts of aggravated battery.

Craig Futterman, a University of Chicago law professor who helped lead the push to force the city to release the video, agrees, calling the sentence 'a slap in the face for black folks and those of us who care about police accountability.'

But at the same time, Futterman said: 'It was next to unbelievable that there was a prosecution and a conviction for murder.'

And although McDonald's great uncle, the Rev. Marvin Hunter, believes the sentence was woefully inadequate, he said it doesn't take away from the significance of the case.

'Had Jason Van Dyke gotten one day in jail it would have been a victory because he was the first,' said Hunter. 'Since then, police across the country are getting convicted of murdering black people.'

Joseph McMahon, the special prosecutor who led a team of attorneys that secured Van Dyke's conviction and who asked the judge to impose an 18-20 year sentence, said he hopes people don't think Van Dyke escaped punishment.

'I know this is difficult to accept, especially for minority communities marginalized by police and the criminal justice system for decades, but this (the conviction and sentence) is a sign of progress,' he said.

'Any length of time for a former cop is difficult,' McMahon added. 'He was physically attacked, spent most of the time in isolation and that is the result of the very real danger he faced day in and day out for the last 3 1/2 years.'

Van Dykee became the first Chicago officer in about half a century to be convicted of murder for an on-duty killing when he was found guilty in 2018

The former officer claimed that McDonald raised the knife, that Van Dyke backpedaled, and that McDonald tried to get up off the ground after being shot all which was found to be false

It is unclear where Van Dyke is being held since his release and the Governor's office has refused to comment on his location

The way Hatch sees it, Van Dyke's release couldn't come at a worse time for the police department, which has been scrambling to regain public trust that the McDonald case helped shatter.

'They're trying to restore faith in law enforcement and now we have this?' he said. 'And it will absolutely make it harder to get people to come with complaints about cops.'

During his trial, Van Dyke claimed that McDonald, who had been reported to police for breaking into a truck, stared at him vacantly moments before he shot him 16 times while the teenager held a knife by his side.

Painting the teenager as unpredictable and dangerous, he said through tears: 'His eyes were just bugging out of his head. 'He had just these huge white eyes just staring right through me.'

Later, he said dashcam footage which showed him shooting the teenager even as he lay on the ground 'does not show his perspective'. He also said he thought he was 'backpedaling' when he was seen walking towards the teenager. 'He waved his knife from his lower left side upwards, across his body towards my left shoulder.

Making repeated mention of the teenager's hoodie, he then admitted to shooting at his knife as he was lying on the ground after being hit.

'All I could see was him starting to push up with his left hand off the ground. I still see him holding his knife in his right hand, eyes still bugging out of his face, still showing no expression. I just kept on looking at the knife and I shot at it. I just wanted him to get rid of that knife,' he said.

Earlier, a psychologist testified that Van Dyke told him after the shooting how he believed he would 'have to' shoot the teenager before even arriving at the crime scene.

Dr. Laurence Miller told the court Van Dyke had told him that he had told his partner on the way to the scene that he thought they would have to shoot the teen and wondered why the other officers there, who had called asking for backup with a Taser, hadn't shot the youngster themselves.

The psychologist however said it was a 'reasonable response' because Van Dyke genuinely believed his life was in danger. Elsewhere, he said he ordered the teenager to drop his knife but was ignored.

A postmortem examination carried out in 2015 confirmed the teenager had PCP in his system.

One of the other officers who was present on the night of the shooting described McDonald as 'deranged' earlier in the week. 'There was nothing that was actually fazing him. He was just, like, in a twilight,' officer Letizia Velez, said.

She also argued that dashcam video of the shooting did not tell 'the full story' because 'it doesn't show' the teenager's face. It doesn't show the look in his eye.'

Van Dyke was one of four cops there when he shot the teenager dead. None of the other police officers fired their weapons and three, including one who received immunity in exchange for testifying against Van Dyke.

During the closing arguments of the 2018 trial, prosecutor Jody Gleason noted that Van Dyke, who arrived at his trial wearing a bulletproof vest, told detectives that McDonald raised the knife, that Van Dyke backpedaled, and that McDonald tried to get up off the ground after being shot.

'None of that happened,' she said. 'You've seen it on video. He made it up.'
Hong Kong to end mandatory hotel quarantine for incoming travellers after nearly 2 years in bid to stay competitive, reports AP.
Outraged residents are planning to hold a protest this weekend against the renaming of 'The Black Bitch' pub by a major brewery.

The 350-year-old boozer, in Linlithgow, West Lothian, is being renamed by Greene King over fears the pub's name may be perceived to be racist.

The pub, which dates back to the 17th century, will be renamed The Willow Tree following a public consultation by the brewer in long-running wrangle.

Its new name commemorates a tree which was planted in 1832 to commemorate the Reform bill, which introduced wide-ranging changes to the election laws of Scotland and gave more people the ability to vote.

The Black Bitch name had referenced a local legend of a black, female greyhound that features on the town's heraldic crest after it brought food to its starving owner who was imprisoned on an island on Linlithgow Loch.

A statue commemorating the local legend still stands to this day in the centre of the historic Scottish town, while its coat of arms features the black dog chained to an oak tree.

Greene King's original proposal in November to rename the pub The Black Hound was met with anger, with a community buyout planned by campaigners and support for the campaign from local politicians and West Lothian Council.

A protest is due to be held at Linlithgow Cross on Saturday by the action committee to save the Black Bitch.

Campaigners branded the move an 'insult' and a 'vendetta', claiming the town's heritage was being 'defamed' and pointing out that the founder of Greene King owned sugar plantations in the West Indies and profited from slavery.

A 17th century pub called 'The Black Bitch' is set to change its name after its owners opted for an 'anti-racist' rebrand amid fears its title was not 'welcoming and inclusive'

According to local lore, 'The Black Bitch' dates back to the 17th century and was named after a black, female greyhound (pictured above) that forms part of the town's crest

The Black Bitch name had referenced a local legend of a black, female greyhound that features on the town's heraldic crest after it brought food to its starving owner who was imprisoned on an island on Linlithgow Loch

Its new name commemorates a tree which was planted in 1832 to commemorate the Reform bill, which introduced wide-ranging changes to the election laws of Scotland and gave more people the ability to vote

Benjamin Greene: The 19th Century brewer who held 231 slaves Greene King traces its links to slavery to its founder, Benjamin Greene, who records show held at least 231 on Caribbean islands. Born in 1780 in Northamptonshire, Greene moved to Bury St Edmonds, Suffolk, where in 1806 he founded what would become the UK's largest brewery. He inherited plantations in the West Indies from Sir Patrick Blake, 2nd Baronet, upon his death. In 1828, he bought the Bury and Suffolk Herald, at a time when the campaign to abolish slavery was being debated. In his role as a newspaper proprietor, Greene used the pages of the broadsheet to ferociously oppose abolition. According to his Oxford biography, he campaigned with 'enormous vigour into representing the interests of the West Indian slave proprietors at a critical juncture of their affairs.' His opposition to abolition saw him become a figure of controversy in Suffolk, and in 1837 he moved to London where he founded Benjamin Greene & Son - West Indian ship merchants - with his son in Russell Square. Despite Greene's protestations, MPs passed the Slavery Abolition Bill in 1833, on the condition that slave-owners were compensated for freeing their slaves. Records archived by UCL show Greene claimed the modern equivalent of 500,000 for 231 slaves in the West Indies. The claim forms show Greene received: January 23, 1836 - 2,672 for 156 slaves on St Kitts February 27, 1836 - 1,262 for 69 slaves on St Kitts February 29, 1836 - 98 for six slaves on Monsterrat Advertisement

Alistair Old, from the committee, said: 'Benjamin Greene, their founding slave owner, was a fanatical opponent of the reform bill and fought against the will of the people to improve democracy.

'Linlithgow celebrated the power of democracy in 1832.

'This company continues to pretend that they have some sort of mandate to proclaim that the historic name of the Black Bitch is racist and offensive, when nearly 12,000 people have signed a petition telling them they are wrong.

'West Lothian Council has asked them to stop defaming the town's heritage, but the removal of the name sends out that exact message.'

He added: 'We're appalled at Greene King's refusal to accept the massive and widespread opposition to changing the historic name Black Bitch on our pub in what clearly has become a vendetta against the overwhelming support to keep the historic name of the pub.'

He said Greene King had created three new names and sent them to the original protesting organisations asking them to pick a new name, but 'every organisation that was contacted, there weren't many, wrote back to say they rejected the names and wished the Black Bitch name to be retained'.

Greene King then made the choice themselves, picking the name the Willow Tree, he said.

Mr Old continued: 'The action committee will be meeting shortly and will be consulting with the larger community on what appropriate action to take in the face of this appalling insult to the town of Linlithgow.'

Greene King CEO Nick Mackenzie said: 'Changing the pub's name has been something we've been considering for some time and I'd like to thank people who've written to us to offer their views.

'There's been plenty of publicity around those who don't agree with our decision, but we've also had letters of support from people in Linlithgow.

'This is a difficult balance and throughout this we have continued to highlight our respect for the history of Linlithgow.

'Our decision is not meant to diminish or denigrate the heritage of the town but at the same time we recognise that language has changed and the name can be extremely offensive to people.

'Our commitment to changing the name is unwavering, as we strongly believe it is the right thing to do for our teams and our customers, but we do understand why our original idea to just change the one word on the sign from Bitch to Hound was not well-received by all.

'It was done with the best of intentions to retain the spirit of the story, but we've listened to people who felt it would impact negatively on the town's emblem.

'We're pleased therefore to be instead changing it to The Willow Tree, which retains links to the town's heritage, and look forward to this next chapter of the pub's history.'
A USC Aiken graduate and former Savannah River Nuclear Solutions intern was recently selected for a prestigious fellowship in the commercial spaceflight sector, an increasingly important industry.

Daniel Nwachukwu, now a first-year graduate student at Georgia Tech, was one of 30 people chosen for the Matthew Isakowitz Fellowship Program, which connects standout students with paid internships and aerospace leaders, among other benefits.

More than 200 students, representing dozens of schools, applied.

Nwachukwu, in a statement distributed by the local university, said the program affords him networking opportunities as well as valuable hands-on experience at Nanoracks, a firm that has delivered more than 1,300 research payloads and small satellites to the International Space Station.

I'm very appreciative of the professors, previous managers and my time at USC Aiken, Nwachukwu said, which enabled me to grow professionally and readily tackle any challenge that came my way.

Dr. Chad Leverette, the dean of USCAs science and engineering college, lauded Nwachukwu as an outstanding young man who excelled in our industrial process engineering program.

I am sure, he said, we will continue to hear about great things that Daniel will accomplish.

The Matthew Isakowitz Fellowship Program is now in its fifth year. Candidates for the 2022 class were rigorously screened for academic excellence and a passion for innovation, entrepreneurship, and commercial space, USCA said in an announcement.
Citipointe Christian College has withdrawn its controversial enrolment contract, with its principal saying he deeply regrets some students feel they would have been discriminated against.

In a statement issued by the Brisbane school, principal Brian Mulheran said he apologised to the families, and students and parents would no longer be asked to agree to the contract, which would have required students to agree to specific gender roles and denounce homosexuality.

Citipointe Christian College principal Brian Mulheran issued a video to parents defending the enrolment contract.

He said some students had been vilified in the community for their religious beliefs or because they attended the college, in the southern suburb of Carindale.

The college, which receives a combined $13 million in government funding, sparked public outrage after the principal issued the contract requiring students to sign or risk being excluded from the school.
ST. LOUIS  Even though the St. Louis region has seen a decline in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, doctors are urging continued vigilance  especially with a new coronavirus strain emerging in other parts of the world.

On Wednesday the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force reported a total of 810 COVID-19 patients across area hospitals, down from a peak of 1,444 on Jan. 17, and just below last winter's peak of 962. The seven-day average of new COVID-19 patient admissions was 136, down from 219 on Jan. 15.

Health officials are monitoring a subvariant of the omicron strain of coronavirus, known as BA.2, that has become prevalent in parts of Europe and Asia in recent weeks. Data suggests that BA.2 may be more transmissible than the original form of omicron, known as BA.1. But health officials say BA.2 does not appear to cause more severe disease.

BJC Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Clay Dunagan said it is probable that BA.2 will become the dominant variant here, but he is not expecting it will cause a large spike in cases.

"I could imagine that this will prolong the descent some, and we might see a bump back up in rates," said Dunagan, who co-leads the task force and is an infectious disease expert at Washington University. "But I'm not looking for a catastrophic change in trajectory."

The recent decrease in case rates and admissions, Dunagan said, is good news. But he added a word of caution.

"Where we are right now is roughly where we were at our peak last winter," Dunagan said. "We still have a lot of cases, and a lot of disease being transmitted in the community. So we need people to stay cautious for a bit longer. But I do think we're on the right path."
Products featured in this article are independently selected by our shopping writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, DailyMail.com will earn an affiliate commission.

If you've been racking your brains for the perfect Valentine's Day gift for a loved one and are yet to find the answer, you need to act fast as the big event will be here within days!

A good place to start is at Zappos, which has gifts to suit all tastes at affordable prices and if you order now, there's still time to receive your order before Valentine's Day.

From leggings for gym bunnies to sparkly earrings for costume jewelry collectors plus lots of fun and functional men's gifts, here are eight of the best Zappos Valentine's Day gifting options to make them fall in love with you a little more.

Kendra Scoot Ari Heart Stud Ear-rings, $78.00

If your significant other is a jewelry fan and appreciates sparkly things, add to their collection and remind them that they are loved with these super cute 14 carat gold plated earrings.

Every time they look in the mirror, they'll be reminded of you. And they can wear them often as the classic red and gold combnination means they'll look great with everything from little black dresses to printed cami tops.

CLICK TO BUY

Karl Lagerfeld Paris Maybelle Tote, $125.20 (was $228.00)

For all the travel and adventure-seeking lovers, a Karl Lagerfeld tote that features Paris will be treasured forever. Paris is the city of love and even if your budget doesn't stretch to an interntaional trip right now, you can show your love that you look forward to future adventures with this trendy purse.

It features two interior zip pockets to keep things safe and a magnetic top closure. But the best feature is it's large capacity so it can fit everything a person needs from day to night including workwear, gym kit and make-up.

CLICK TO BUY

Koral Lustrous Max High-Rise Leggings, $88.00

Is your other half a gym bunny? If so, forget chocolates or flowers and show you support their hobby with some leggings in red, the color of love.

Made in the USA, the low-sheen double-knit fabric offers excellent stretch and resiliency, creating a slimming shape without being restrictive. They're amazing workout leggings as the quick-dry fabric rapidly absorbs and releases moisture for accelerated dry time and to balance body temperature.

CLICK TO BUY

Timberland Leather Rfid Small Index Wallet, $24.99

It can be tough to buy a gift for a guy, but they'll always need a way to carry their cards. The Timberland small wallet will make them think of you each time they pay for something, which could even result in some impulse gift buys for you throughout the year.

At $24.99, it's an affordable way to express your love and the guy won't guess that it was such a great deal as the slimline, chic design makes it look much more expensive.

CLICK TO BUY

Homesick Love Letters Scented Candle, $34.00

To entice and get your loved one in the mood for date night, aromatherapy never fails to help them relax and de-stress. Buying a scented candle as a Valentine's Day gift is a great option if your significant other likes to take time getting ready and enjoys pamper evenings at home.

The Love Leters candle also works as a date night accessory if you're staying at home rather than going to a restaurant this year. The top notes are a romantic mix of rose petals and jasmine, with mid-notes of sandalwood and peony and fruity base notes of lemon and red plum.

CLICK TO BUY

Alex And Ani Adjustable Heart Ring, $38.00

Men's jewelry is a much bigger trend than it used to be and an adjustable ring means that your other half can get involved, no matter how big their fingers are.

Although it's excellent value at $38, it comes with a gift box and it's gold plated and durable so it will last a long time, hopefully like your love. It's a great way of showing to the world that this man is taken as well as reminding him of your feelings towards him.

CLICK TO BUY

Kendra Scott Nova Friendship Bracelet, $58.00

Looking for a cute gift for the BFF? Look no further than a friendship bracelet featuring heart-shaped beads that will show your friend that your heart is with them even when you're apart.

At $58 per bracelet, you might want to buy one for yourself and one for your friend so you can twin and be thankful for your friendship not just on Valentine's Day but all year round.

CLICK TO BUY

Men's Hoka Rincon 3 Sneakers, $120

If the man in your life loves keeping fit, show him you know what makes him tick with a cute pair of red sneakers.

Men prefer gifts that are practical and useful, not just romantic. So he'll appreciate that he can use these for sport and the cute touch is that they're in red, the color of love. It's a great way to stay in his mind, even when he's out and about and exercising.

CLICK TO BUY
Elders Qari Mohammad Saeed and Mirajuddin accused the Khyber administration of backtracking on its promise of releasing Mufti Ejaz, who was arrested in Jamrud on Saturday, according to Dawn.

They said the local administration officials during a meeting with the elders on Monday promised the elder's release but to no avail. They said the protest would continue till the unconditional release of Mufti Ejaz, who is also a senior leader of Jamiat Ulema-e Islam Pakistan (JUI-F).

Meanwhile, a delegation of JUI-F provincial leaders met Peshawar commissioner Riaz Mehsud to secure the elder's release which failed.

The meeting was also attended by the Khyber deputy commissioner. The officials told the JUI-F delegation that there were some legal problems in the release of the arrested tribal elder, which would be removed till Thursday (today), and then he would be set free, as noted by Dawn. (ANI)
War of words between Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) lawmaker and Prime Minister Imran Khan's aide intensifies over the inauguration of a road project near Hassanabdal. Differences have emerged in the leadership of the ruling PTI Attock chapter after Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Climate Change Malik Amin Aslam and retired Major Tahir Sadiq got embroiled in a war of words over the inauguration of a road project near Hassanabdal, as noted by Dawn. Funds worth Rs144.827 million were provided by the Punjab government for the construction of the 12-kilometre-long Hassar-Katarian road which would facilitate over one million population of 12 villages. The groundbreaking ceremony of the project was performed by Malik Amin Aslam on Friday and then the same project was inaugurated by District Coordination Committee Chairman MNA retired Major Tahir Sadiq on Monday, according to Dawn. Both the leaders organised separate public meetings which were attended by supporters of the respective groups. When Aslam arrived to perform the groundbreaking, supporters of Sadiq intervened and tried to disturb the event. However, this was foiled by the police. Speaking at the gathering of his supporters on Monday, Sadiq urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to initiate accountability from within the party and of people who had gathered around him. Referring to the prime minister's aide on climate change, he said Imran Khan should take stock of the alleged corruption in the billion tree tsunami project. Sadiq also said he had a decades-long affiliation with the Pakistan Muslim League (Quaid e Azam Group) but joined the PTI on the slogan of change but found nothing new in "Naya Pakistan". "If the government makes decisions against the public interest, we will be forced to stand up and do what we should not want to do," he said. When contacted, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Climate Change Malik Amin Aslam rejected the allegations levelled against him by his party MNA. "All the allegations are absolutely baseless and false. The development funds were sanctioned because of the PTI and the prime minister and we had a public meeting to thank him on behalf of the people of Attock," he said. (ANI)
This Thursday, June 6, 2013 file photo shows the National Security Administration (NSA) campus in Fort Meade, Md AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File

An election conspiracy memo called for the seizure of NSA data to overturn the 2020 election.

The memo, obtained by the Post, said the data could be examined for evidence of interference.

The memo was also sent to offices of GOP senators pitched on outlandish election conspiracies.

Conspiracy theorists pitched Trump allies and GOP senators on a plan for former President Donald Trump to use his executive authority to seize raw data from the NSA to help overturn the 2020 election, the Washington Post reports.

The December 18 memo, written by former congressional candidate and Trump campaign surrogate Michael Del Rosso, wound its way through Trumpworld and was sent to some Republican members of Congress as part of wide-ranging efforts by conspiracy theorists to overturn Trump's 2020 election loss.

The NSA has a powerful data-collection and surveillance apparatus that allows it to intercept large quantities of raw phone, text, email, and social media data and share that raw data with other federal agencies.

The memo called for the president to seize that raw data under National Presidential Memorandum-13, which authorizes certain offensive cybersecurity operations, and examine it for evidence of possible foreign interference in the 2020 election. The US intelligence community concluded that no foreign adversary "attempted" to hack voting machines or alter any data to change the outcome of the election.

"Those targeted inquiries will likely identify hard evidence of foreign involvement in DOD data which will support all other efforts to reverse the fraud," the memo said.

The memo added the "inquiry would be done confidentially and could be completed in several days," saying, "to treat this solely as a legal issue is to ensure that the USG's response is under-scoped and inadequate."

The memo called for then-Defense Secretary Christopher Miller to appoint Del Rosso, retired military lawyer Frank Colon, and a former National Security Council official to examine the NSA communications.

Story continues

Miller and Colon, for their parts, both told the Post they had not been made aware of the memo or its contents. It's also unclear whether the memo made it to Trump himself, or if he was aware of the proposal.

Michael Daniel, a top cybersecurity official under the Obama administration, told the Post the memo was "a crazy tangle of things" that misunderstood the president's executive authority over cybersecurity matters.

"To use an overused term, all of this would have been completely unprecedented. I can't imagine anything like that ever having happened before," he told the Post. "It would have been a radical departure from normal procedure."

The memo was also sent to the offices of Republican senators that figures including MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, lawyer Sidney Powell, and former Overstock.com CEO convened at the Trump Hotel on January 4 in a previously-unreported meeting.

They pitched Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Sen. Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, and Sen. Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming on wild conspiracy theories that they hoped would convince them to object to election results at the January 6 joint session of Congress and delay Biden's presidency.

The presentation included, among other things, unfounded conspiracy theories claiming that China and Venezuela had hacked voting machines.

"We were hoping that the senators would give it 10 more days to give it back to the states," Lindell told the Post, referencing a misguided idea that already-certified slates of presidential electors could be "sent back" to the states for review.

Cramer told the Post the presentation contained "lot of theories but not a lot of evidence."

"The whole point was getting a message to the president and the vice president on what they should be doing to stop the certification, the North Dakota senator said, adding, "Honestly, I was not impressed by these people."

Both Cramer and Johnson ended up voting to affirm Biden's election victory on January 6, while Lummis voted to object to counting Pennsylvania's slate of electors for Biden.

Michael Pillsbury, an "informal" Trump adviser, described the chaotic period leading up to January 6 as "amateur hour" to the Post, including "people who did not know Trump or had never met with Trump before in their lives attempting to get into the Oval Office to get authorized to do investigations that the rest of the government had examined and had said there was no evidence for."

Emails obtained in previous congressional investigations and reporting showed that former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows pushed baseless conspiracy theories that Italy had used military satellites to hack voting machines and that China hacked into voting machines with thermostats, which he and former DOJ official Jeffrey Clark pitched to the highest levels of DOJ leadership.

The new revelations about the memo advocating for the seizure of NSA data adds to other recent reports revealing that Trump was directly involved in another ultimately unsuccessful plan to have the Department of Homeland security seize voting machines and examine them for evidence of fraud or hacking.

Earlier this year, Politico published the full text of a previously-reported December 2020 draft executive order that laid out a plan for Trump to order the federal government to seize voting machines and appoint a special counsel to investigate voter fraud, a post that Powell reportedly wanted.

Read the original article on Business Insider
by Steve Suwannarat

Mudzrimar, the number two of the Philippines-based Islamist group, is seeking refuge in Sabah and could reactivate local allied groups. Malaysia is also deploying special teams on horseback along the border with southern Thailand, where local Muslim secessionist groups operate.

Kuala Lumpur (AsiaNews)  The Malaysian government is increasing airports and ports security and deploying Special Action Units to counter the increasing threat of terrorism by Salafi groups.

Abu Sayyaf appears to be increasingly active in Sabah, a state in the eastern of part Malaysian Borneo, not far across by sea from the Philippines and a threat to both countries.

The group was once linked to al-Qaeda but now seems to be moving closer to the Islamic States self-proclaimed caliphate.

Along Sabahs coastline, Abu Sayyaf has been blamed for a number of incidents, including abductions for ransom to finance their activities. Its strongholds are on the islands of Basilan and Jolo, southern Philippines.

Although not yet a crisis, Malaysia is boosting security along the borders of the states of Sabah and Sarawak. Their target is Mudzrimar "Mundi" Sawadjaan, Abu Sayyafs second-in-command and an explosives expert.

According to the latest available intelligence he was present in the Philippines as late as January, despite his reported death in recent clashes in Sulu.

It is thought that Mudzrimar might be seeking refuge in Malaysian Borneo where his presence could potentially reactivate local groups allied with Abu Sayyaf or influenced by it.

In order to monitor and contain possible terrorist infiltrations along the border between Malaysia and Thailand, Malaysian security authorities are deploying special teams on horseback.

The region is prone to the smuggling of goods and people by criminal gangs with local connections.

The four provinces on Thai side of the border are particularly unstable with a low-intensity conflict that has festered for many years, pitting Thailands military against Muslim secessionist groups who resent being under the distant thumb of Bangkok and Buddhist Thais.
Community News Editor / Librarian

Jeannie Maschino is community news editor and librarian for The Berkshire Eagle. She has worked for the newspaper in various capacities since 1982 and joined the newsroom in 1989.
The new law calls for $76 million in direct state spending aimed at boosting access to masks, COVID-19 vaccines and rapid tests, particularly for schools, congregate care facilities and homeless shelters. It also allots an additional $25 million in available federal money to the state's COVID emergency paid sick leave program.
by Melani Manel Perera

The archbishop has decided to boycott celebrations in protest against the government. The sacristan of the church in Borella, where a hand grenade was found, has been held for almost a month despite his innocence. For Fr Cyril Gamini Fernando, obtaining justice has been increasingly difficult in the country.

Colombo (Asia News)  Archbishop Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith Colombo has decided to boycott the celebrations for the 74th anniversary of Sri Lankan independence.

Breaking with tradition, no divine liturgy will be held to mark 4 February. The cardinal will not hold the traditional service in protest against the government, which has not yet properly investigated the discovery of a hand grenade in the All Saints Church in Borella nor fully explained the 2019Easter Sunday attacks.

We are disturbed as to why the caretaker of the church is still detained despite the proof that he has nothing to do with the issue, said Fr Cyril Gamini Fernando, spokesman for the Archdiocese of Colombo. In fact, CCTV Camera footage makes it clear that this person has nothing to do with the grenade episode.

In the past, Card Ranjith celebrated Mass in Borella several times on Independence Day, but this year, he decided not to hold Mass in the church where a hand grenade was planted.

Elsewhere in the country, other Catholic churches will celebrate the service as usual. But for Fr Fernando, this is a sad moment, especially at a time when innocent people are being detained.

On 11 January, a hand grenade was found in All Saints Church in Borella, a suburb of the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo.

The sacristan was immediately arrested along with other suspects, but police later identified the person responsible thanks to CCTV footage.

The culprit is a retired doctor from Piliyandala, also linked to other grenades placed in a private hospital in Narahenpita and the Bellanwila temple.

Speaking about the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, Fr Cyril Gamini said that he doubts justice will be done any time soon.

We want answers in this country, he insisted. But for three years, this has been increasingly difficult.
Rating Action: Moody's affirms Embraer's Ba2 ratings; changes outlook to stable from negativeGlobal Credit Research - 03 Feb 2022New York, February 03, 2022 -- Moody's Investors Service ("Moody's") has today affirmed Embraer S.A. (Embraer)'s Ba2 corporate family rating and senior unsecured debt rating, and the Ba2 ratings of the senior unsecured notes issued by Embraer Overseas Limited and Embraer Netherlands Finance BV and guaranteed by Embraer. The outlook for all ratings was changed to stable from negative. Ratings affirmed: Issuer: Embraer S.A. Corporate Family Rating: Ba2$500 million global senior notes due 2022: Ba2Issuer: Embraer Netherlands Finance BV$1,000 million Gtd global senior notes due 2025 guaranteed by Embraer S.A.: Ba2Issuer: Embraer Overseas Limited$540.52 million Gtd global senior notes due 2023 guaranteed by Embraer S.A.: Ba2 Outlook actions: Issuer: Embraer S.A. Outlook changed to Stable from NegativeIssuer: Embraer Netherlands Finance BVOutlook changed to Stable from NegativeIssuer: Embraer Overseas LimitedOutlook changed to Stable from NegativeRATINGS RATIONALEThe change in Embraer's rating outlook to stable from negative reflects (i) the ongoing improvement in credit metrics related to a gradual recovery in market conditions, operating performance and backlog, and (ii) the improvement in the company's liquidity position following the recent asset sale in Portugal, the initiatives to reduce cash burn and the business combination and subsequent IPO of the eVTOL business EVE Holding, Inc. (EVE), all of which mitigates the risks that could trigger a negative rating action in the short term.Moody's expects that Embraer's adjusted gross leverage will decline to 7x-6x by year-end 2022 and to 6x-5x in 2023, from around 9x in 2021 and 19.1x in 2020, when credit metrics were hurt by lower deliveries related to the pandemic and the additional debt raised by the company to cover cash needs. The recovery will come on the back of higher deliveries of aircrafts in the commercial segment, firm demand for services and support agreements, executive jets, and higher profitability in the defense and security business with the beginning of commercialization of the KC-390 aircraft. Despite potential volatility in existing contracts with the Brazilian government, Embraer's backlog will continue to grow with additional orders in the commercial aviation segment, as illustrated by the recently announced agreement with Azorra for up to 50 E190-E2 or E195-E2 aircrafts worth $3.9 billion based on list prices, of which $1.6 billion is firmly committed.The company's liquidity profile will also improve with proceeds from asset sales and the expected inflow related to the business combination of EVE in 2022, which will help to reduce net leverage ratios to below 3x in 2022-23, from around 4x in 2021. Embraer's cash flows will also benefit from its strategy to reduce cash burn through efficiency gains, such as better inventory management, reduction in the production cycle of aircraft by more than 35% by 2022, and the optimization of investments to respond to market the conditions, as illustrated by the postponement of the 175-E2 jet entrance to 2024 from 2022 because of the pilot contract scope clause limitations in the United States.Such milestones will help abate liquidity risks coming from the capital intensity of its business and the development costs of the new eVTOLs business and investments needed to comply with new service agreements -- which require less employed capital than the jet business --, freeing up cash for debt reduction and a faster recovery in gross leverage ratios. Lower cash needs will also support the maintenance of adequate net leverage ratios during the volatile recovery in the company's commercial aircraft business.Embraer's Ba2 rating continue to reflect its solid position as a leading regional jet maker and its reputation as a reliable airplane producer, bolstered by its good liquidity derived from large cash balances and a manageable debt maturity profile. The Ba2 rating also takes into consideration the fact that funding from Brazilian public banks would be available, if needed. In Moody's view, Embraer is still a strategic asset to the Government of Brazil (Ba2 stable), which owns a golden share in Embraer with veto rights.At the same time, the cyclical nature of the aviation business and increasing competition constrain Embraer's rating, particularly given the significant investments required on an ongoing basis to keep up with evolving customer needs. The company's high financial leverage coming from working capital pressure and high investments, exacerbated by significant earnings and cash flow erosion during the pandemic, is an additional rating constraint that is partially mitigated by adequate net leverage ratios. Embraer's financial performance and balance sheet were severely hit by the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on demand for new commercial and business aircraft in 2020, with a more sustained recovery likely only in 2022-23.LIQUIDITYEmbraer's good liquidity is an important factor underpinning its rating. The company has consistently maintained a high cash balance, matching the level of its outstanding debt, except in 2020, when net leverage increased because of the additional debt raised during the pandemic and the cash burn posted during the crisis. As of the end of September 2021, the company's cash on hand and short-term investments of BRL13.3 billion were enough to cover all its debt maturities through 2024. Moody's expects Embraer to continue to proactively pursue liability management initiatives to lengthen its debt tenor and reduce debt cost, thus preserving its liquidity profile.RATING OUTLOOKThe stable outlook reflects Moody's expectations that Embraer's credit metrics will continue to recover through 2023 and that the company will maintain its good liquidity to mitigate risks related to the volatility in market conditions.FACTORS THAT COULD LEAD TO AN UPGRADE OR DOWNGRADE OF THE RATINGSUpward rating pressure is unlikely until Embraer's credit metrics and free cash flow generation recovers sustainably from the pandemic slump. Quantitively, an upgrade would require positive free cash flow generation on a sustained basis, and net leverage ratios strengthening to pre-pandemic levels of around 2-3x. The maintenance of a strong liquidity profile and of conservative financial policies would also be required for an upgrade.Expectations of deeper and longer declines in demand for new aircraft as a result of the pandemic, particularly if not matched by additional sources of liquidity, could result in a rating downgrade. A downgrade could also result from wider liquidity concerns, for instance because of cost inflexibility, or from clear expectations that the company will not be able to maintain financial metrics compatible with a Ba2 rating following the pandemic with gross adjusted leverage above 5x and retained cash flow/net debt below 15% on a sustained basis.The principal methodology used in these ratings was Aerospace and Defense published in October 2021 and available at https://www.moodys.com/researchdocumentcontentpage.aspx?docid=PBC_1287887. Alternatively, please see the Rating Methodologies page on www.moodys.com for a copy of this methodology.COMPANY PROFILEEmbraer is a leading manufacturer of commercial jets with up to 150 seats, with a growing defense and security segment, and a line of business jets, including new types for the medium-sized and super-medium-sized segments. Founded in 1969 by the Brazilian federal government and privatized in 1994, Embraer is headquartered in Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil. In the 12 months that ended September 2021, the company reported net revenue of BRL25.2 billion ($4.6 billion) with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 10.8%.REGULATORY DISCLOSURESFor further specification of Moody's key rating assumptions and sensitivity analysis, see the sections Methodology Assumptions and Sensitivity to Assumptions in the disclosure form. Moody's Rating Symbols and Definitions can be found at: https://www.moodys.com/researchdocumentcontentpage.aspx?docid=PBC_79004.For ratings issued on a program, series, category/class of debt or security this announcement provides certain regulatory disclosures in relation to each rating of a subsequently issued bond or note of the same series, category/class of debt, security or pursuant to a program for which the ratings are derived exclusively from existing ratings in accordance with Moody's rating practices. For ratings issued on a support provider, this announcement provides certain regulatory disclosures in relation to the credit rating action on the support provider and in relation to each particular credit rating action for securities that derive their credit ratings from the support provider's credit rating. For provisional ratings, this announcement provides certain regulatory disclosures in relation to the provisional rating assigned, and in relation to a definitive rating that may be assigned subsequent to the final issuance of the debt, in each case where the transaction structure and terms have not changed prior to the assignment of the definitive rating in a manner that would have affected the rating. For further information please see the ratings tab on the issuer/entity page for the respective issuer on www.moodys.com.For any affected securities or rated entities receiving direct credit support from the primary entity(ies) of this credit rating action, and whose ratings may change as a result of this credit rating action, the associated regulatory disclosures will be those of the guarantor entity. Exceptions to this approach exist for the following disclosures, if applicable to jurisdiction: Ancillary Services, Disclosure to rated entity, Disclosure from rated entity.The ratings have been disclosed to the rated entity or its designated agent(s) and issued with no amendment resulting from that disclosure.These ratings are solicited. Please refer to Moody's Policy for Designating and Assigning Unsolicited Credit Ratings available on its website www.moodys.com.Regulatory disclosures contained in this press release apply to the credit rating and, if applicable, the related rating outlook or rating review.Moody's general principles for assessing environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks in our credit analysis can be found at http://www.moodys.com/researchdocumentcontentpage.aspx?docid=PBC_1288235.The Global Scale Credit Rating on this Credit Rating Announcement was issued by one of Moody's affiliates outside the EU and is endorsed by Moody's Deutschland GmbH, An der Welle 5, Frankfurt am Main 60322, Germany, in accordance with Art.4 paragraph 3 of the Regulation (EC) No 1060/2009 on Credit Rating Agencies. Further information on the EU endorsement status and on the Moody's office that issued the credit rating is available on www.moodys.com.The Global Scale Credit Rating on this Credit Rating Announcement was issued by one of Moody's affiliates outside the UK and is endorsed by Moody's Investors Service Limited, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5FA under the law applicable to credit rating agencies in the UK. Further information on the UK endorsement status and on the Moody's office that issued the credit rating is available on www.moodys.com.Please see www.moodys.com for any updates on changes to the lead rating analyst and to the Moody's legal entity that has issued the rating.Please see the ratings tab on the issuer/entity page on www.moodys.com for additional regulatory disclosures for each credit rating. Carolina Chimenti Vice President - Senior Analyst Corporate Finance Group Moody's America Latina Ltda. Avenida Nacoes Unidas, 12.551 16th Floor, Room 1601 Sao Paulo, SP 04578-903 Brazil JOURNALISTS: 0 800 891 2518 Client Service: 1 212 553 1653 Marcos Schmidt Associate Managing Director Corporate Finance Group JOURNALISTS: 0 800 891 2518 Client Service: 1 212 553 1653 Releasing Office: Moody's Investors Service, Inc. 250 Greenwich Street New York, NY 10007 U.S.A. JOURNALISTS: 1 212 553 0376 Client Service: 1 212 553 1653  2022 Moodys Corporation, Moodys Investors Service, Inc., Moodys Analytics, Inc. and/or their licensors and affiliates (collectively, MOODYS). All rights reserved.CREDIT RATINGS ISSUED BY MOODY'S CREDIT RATINGS AFFILIATES ARE THEIR CURRENT OPINIONS OF THE RELATIVE FUTURE CREDIT RISK OF ENTITIES, CREDIT COMMITMENTS, OR DEBT OR DEBT-LIKE SECURITIES, AND MATERIALS, PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND INFORMATION PUBLISHED BY MOODYS (COLLECTIVELY, PUBLICATIONS) MAY INCLUDE SUCH CURRENT OPINIONS. MOODYS DEFINES CREDIT RISK AS THE RISK THAT AN ENTITY MAY NOT MEET ITS CONTRACTUAL FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS AS THEY COME DUE AND ANY ESTIMATED FINANCIAL LOSS IN THE EVENT OF DEFAULT OR IMPAIRMENT. SEE APPLICABLE MOODYS RATING SYMBOLS AND DEFINITIONS PUBLICATION FOR INFORMATION ON THE TYPES OF CONTRACTUAL FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS ADDRESSED BY MOODYS CREDIT RATINGS. CREDIT RATINGS DO NOT ADDRESS ANY OTHER RISK, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: LIQUIDITY RISK, MARKET VALUE RISK, OR PRICE VOLATILITY. CREDIT RATINGS, NON-CREDIT ASSESSMENTS (ASSESSMENTS), AND OTHER OPINIONS INCLUDED IN MOODYS PUBLICATIONS ARE NOT STATEMENTS OF CURRENT OR HISTORICAL FACT. MOODYS PUBLICATIONS MAY ALSO INCLUDE QUANTITATIVE MODEL-BASED ESTIMATES OF CREDIT RISK AND RELATED OPINIONS OR COMMENTARY PUBLISHED BY MOODYS ANALYTICS, INC. AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES. MOODYS CREDIT RATINGS, ASSESSMENTS, OTHER OPINIONS AND PUBLICATIONS DO NOT CONSTITUTE OR PROVIDE INVESTMENT OR FINANCIAL ADVICE, AND MOODYS CREDIT RATINGS, ASSESSMENTS, OTHER OPINIONS AND PUBLICATIONS ARE NOT AND DO NOT PROVIDE RECOMMENDATIONS TO PURCHASE, SELL, OR HOLD PARTICULAR SECURITIES. MOODYS CREDIT RATINGS, ASSESSMENTS, OTHER OPINIONS AND PUBLICATIONS DO NOT COMMENT ON THE SUITABILITY OF AN INVESTMENT FOR ANY PARTICULAR INVESTOR. MOODYS ISSUES ITS CREDIT RATINGS, ASSESSMENTS AND OTHER OPINIONS AND PUBLISHES ITS PUBLICATIONS WITH THE EXPECTATION AND UNDERSTANDING THAT EACH INVESTOR WILL, WITH DUE CARE, MAKE ITS OWN STUDY AND EVALUATION OF EACH SECURITY THAT IS UNDER CONSIDERATION FOR PURCHASE, HOLDING, OR SALE.MOODYS CREDIT RATINGS, ASSESSMENTS, OTHER OPINIONS, AND PUBLICATIONS ARE NOT INTENDED FOR USE BY RETAIL INVESTORS AND IT WOULD BE RECKLESS AND INAPPROPRIATE FOR RETAIL INVESTORS TO USE MOODYS CREDIT RATINGS, ASSESSMENTS, OTHER OPINIONS OR PUBLICATIONS WHEN MAKING AN INVESTMENT DECISION. IF IN DOUBT YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR FINANCIAL OR OTHER PROFESSIONAL ADVISER.ALL INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS PROTECTED BY LAW, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, COPYRIGHT LAW, AND NONE OF SUCH INFORMATION MAY BE COPIED OR OTHERWISE REPRODUCED, REPACKAGED, FURTHER TRANSMITTED, TRANSFERRED, DISSEMINATED, REDISTRIBUTED OR RESOLD, OR STORED FOR SUBSEQUENT USE FOR ANY SUCH PURPOSE, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN ANY FORM OR MANNER OR BY ANY MEANS WHATSOEVER, BY ANY PERSON WITHOUT MOODYS PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT.MOODYS CREDIT RATINGS, ASSESSMENTS, OTHER OPINIONS AND PUBLICATIONS ARE NOT INTENDED FOR USE BY ANY PERSON AS A BENCHMARK AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED FOR REGULATORY PURPOSES AND MUST NOT BE USED IN ANY WAY THAT COULD RESULT IN THEM BEING CONSIDERED A BENCHMARK.All information contained herein is obtained by MOODYS from sources believed by it to be accurate and reliable. Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error as well as other factors, however, all information contained herein is provided AS IS without warranty of any kind. MOODY'S adopts all necessary measures so that the information it uses in assigning a credit rating is of sufficient quality and from sources MOODY'S considers to be reliable including, when appropriate, independent third-party sources. However, MOODYS is not an auditor and cannot in every instance independently verify or validate information received in the rating process or in preparing its Publications.To the extent permitted by law, MOODYS and its directors, officers, employees, agents, representatives, licensors and suppliers disclaim liability to any person or entity for any indirect, special, consequential, or incidental losses or damages whatsoever arising from or in connection with the information contained herein or the use of or inability to use any such information, even if MOODYS or any of its directors, officers, employees, agents, representatives, licensors or suppliers is advised in advance of the possibility of such losses or damages, including but not limited to: (a) any loss of present or prospective profits or (b) any loss or damage arising where the relevant financial instrument is not the subject of a particular credit rating assigned by MOODYS.To the extent permitted by law, MOODYS and its directors, officers, employees, agents, representatives, licensors and suppliers disclaim liability for any direct or compensatory losses or damages caused to any person or entity, including but not limited to by any negligence (but excluding fraud, willful misconduct or any other type of liability that, for the avoidance of doubt, by law cannot be excluded) on the part of, or any contingency within or beyond the control of, MOODYS or any of its directors, officers, employees, agents, representatives, licensors or suppliers, arising from or in connection with the information contained herein or the use of or inability to use any such information.NO WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS TO THE ACCURACY, TIMELINESS, COMPLETENESS, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE OF ANY CREDIT RATING, ASSESSMENT, OTHER OPINION OR INFORMATION IS GIVEN OR MADE BY MOODYS IN ANY FORM OR MANNER WHATSOEVER.Moodys Investors Service, Inc., a wholly-owned credit rating agency subsidiary of Moodys Corporation (MCO), hereby discloses that most issuers of debt securities (including corporate and municipal bonds, debentures, notes and commercial paper) and preferred stock rated by Moodys Investors Service, Inc. have, prior to assignment of any credit rating, agreed to pay to Moodys Investors Service, Inc. for credit ratings opinions and services rendered by it fees ranging from $1,000 to approximately $5,000,000. MCO and Moodys Investors Service also maintain policies and procedures to address the independence of Moodys Investors Service credit ratings and credit rating processes. Information regarding certain affiliations that may exist between directors of MCO and rated entities, and between entities who hold credit ratings from Moodys Investors Service and have also publicly reported to the SEC an ownership interest in MCO of more than 5%, is posted annually at www.moodys.com under the heading Investor Relations  Corporate Governance  Director and Shareholder Affiliation Policy.Additional terms for Australia only: Any publication into Australia of this document is pursuant to the Australian Financial Services License of MOODYS affiliate, Moodys Investors Service Pty Limited ABN 61 003 399 657AFSL 336969 and/or Moodys Analytics Australia Pty Ltd ABN 94 105 136 972 AFSL 383569 (as applicable). This document is intended to be provided only to wholesale clients within the meaning of section 761G of the Corporations Act 2001. By continuing to access this document from within Australia, you represent to MOODYS that you are, or are accessing the document as a representative of, a wholesale client and that neither you nor the entity you represent will directly or indirectly disseminate this document or its contents to retail clients within the meaning of section 761G of the Corporations Act 2001. MOODYS credit rating is an opinion as to the creditworthiness of a debt obligation of the issuer, not on the equity securities of the issuer or any form of security that is available to retail investors.Additional terms for Japan only: Moody's Japan K.K. (MJKK) is a wholly-owned credit rating agency subsidiary of Moody's Group Japan G.K., which is wholly-owned by Moodys Overseas Holdings Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of MCO. Moodys SF Japan K.K. (MSFJ) is a wholly-owned credit rating agency subsidiary of MJKK. MSFJ is not a Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization (NRSRO). Therefore, credit ratings assigned by MSFJ are Non-NRSRO Credit Ratings. Non-NRSRO Credit Ratings are assigned by an entity that is not a NRSRO and, consequently, the rated obligation will not qualify for certain types of treatment under U.S. laws. MJKK and MSFJ are credit rating agencies registered with the Japan Financial Services Agency and their registration numbers are FSA Commissioner (Ratings) No. 2 and 3 respectively.MJKK or MSFJ (as applicable) hereby disclose that most issuers of debt securities (including corporate and municipal bonds, debentures, notes and commercial paper) and preferred stock rated by MJKK or MSFJ (as applicable) have, prior to assignment of any credit rating, agreed to pay to MJKK or MSFJ (as applicable) for credit ratings opinions and services rendered by it fees ranging from JPY100,000 to approximately JPY550,000,000.MJKK and MSFJ also maintain policies and procedures to address Japanese regulatory requirements. 
AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vyopta, the leader in digital collaboration user experience management, today announced that Vyopta is officially Microsoft Co-Sell Ready and that its Collaboration Performance Management platform is listed in the Microsoft AppSource Marketplace .

Vyopta provides comprehensive support for Microsoft's cloud-based UC products including Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Teams Rooms, Surface Hub, and Skype for Business. Over 50 Vyopta customers are already using Vyopta's data and insights to optimize their Microsoft collaboration technologies.

The AppSource Marketplace features business solutions, such as SaaS applications, as well as apps that extend directly into Dynamics365, Microsoft 365, and Microsoft Power Platform, and are most relevant to Microsoft sellers and partners focused on Microsoft Modern Work solutions.

"Vyopta's new Co-Sell Ready status will further support our partnership with Vyopta and Microsoft, and allow DynTek to deliver more comprehensive services in support of the Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Teams Rooms ecosystem," said Dan Minella, Vice President, West Region, DynTek Services, Inc.

Vyopta was among the first to market in providing intelligent monitoring and contextual analytics for Microsoft Teams, having participated in Microsoft's Call Data API Technology Adoption Program (TAP).

Vyopta provides a subscription cloud platform providing monitoring, alerting, and analytics for Microsoft Teams and other connected platforms, including Microsoft Teams Rooms, SIP devices, CVI interop platforms, Call Control platforms, and SBCs. The platform offers a comprehensive real-time view of the health and utilization of a Microsoft Teams collaboration environment.

"This is an important step forward for Vyopta in our partnership with Microsoft because it will help Vyopta and our partners better support customers investing in Microsoft Modern Work solutions," said Marc Haimsohn, Vice President of Business Development for Vyopta.

Learn more at www.vyopta.com/product/what-we-cover/microsoft .

Related:

Vyopta Collaboration Performance Management on Microsoft AppSource

Vyopta Doubles UCaaS Users Supported Since Start of Pandemic

Vyopta Partner Community Grew by 75% in 2020

Vyopta Launches Support for Microsoft Teams

About Vyopta Incorporated

Vyopta , the leader in digital collaboration user experience management, has helped 40 million people collaborate better. Its Collaboration Performance Management and Workspace Insights platforms have helped identify and address over 9 million issues. Vyopta helps organizations deliver the best UC user experience and optimize their UC and real estate investments. Hundreds of organizations worldwide spanning 20+ industries use Vyopta to monitor 6 million endpoints and over 20 billion meeting minutes a year.

SOURCE Vyopta
The automotive antenna module market report covers the following areas:

Vendor Landscape

The market structure is expected to remain fragmented during the forecast period. Vendors are deploying different organic and inorganic growth strategies to compete in the market. Amphenol Corp., ANTONICS-ICP GmbH, Continental AG, HARADA INDUSTRY Co. Ltd., Kymeta Corp., Laird Plc, Lorom Industrial Co. Ltd., Schaffner Holding AG, Taoglas Group Holdings Ltd., and TE Connectivity Ltd. are some of the few key vendors competing to maintain their market position in the market.

View more about the market's vendor landscape highlights with a comprehensive list of vendors and their offerings.

Key Market Segmentation

Segmentation by Type:

Passenger Cars:



The passenger cars segment contributed largely to the overall market growth in 2020.





The rising demand for premium cars and increasing technological advances in the passenger car segment will have a positive impact on the global automotive antenna module market.



Commercial Vehicles

Segmentation by frequency range:

Medium-range :

:

In terms of frequency range, the medium-range segment will have significant market share growth during the forecast period.





The increasing demand for connected vehicles and the increase in the adoption of cellular technology in vehicles would increase the range of applications like connected infotainment, navigation, usage-based insurance, remote diagnostics, prognostics that use medium-range antennas.



High-range



Low-range

Request a FREE Sample of this report for more highlights into the market segments.

Regional Market Outlook

North America will contribute to 40% of the market growth during the forecast period. The high demand for automobiles in the US will drive the automotive antenna module market growth in North America during the forecast period. If we look at the country-wise market growth, the US will contribute the highest market growth.

Download our FREE sample report for more key highlights on the regional market share of most of the above-mentioned countries.

Latest Trends and Drivers in the Automotive Antenna Module Market

Market Driver:

Increase in the adoption of connectivity technologies for added comfort:

The global automotive market is witnessing a rise in the adoption of connectivity technologies through connected infotainment systems and navigation systems. The demand for luxury cars in emerging markets such as China is increasing due to the rise in average disposable income. Connected technology is also gaining traction in mid-segment vehicles, which will increase the volume sales of automotive antenna modules.

Market Trend:

Growing popularity of cellular V2X technologies:

The growing popularity of cellular V2X technologies is supporting the automotive antenna module market share growth. The developments in 4G LTE and 5G wireless technology are helping the testing and adoption of cellular V2X communication. C-V2X technologies for connectivity would have a positive impact on the global automotive antenna module market in the near future with the adoption of 4G LTE for connectivity in a few regions.

Find additional information about various other market drivers & trends mentioned in our FREE sample report .

Need More? Are You Looking for Information Not Covered in This Report?

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Evaluate a specific segment or region in detail

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Tailor this report according to your needs. Get it done with our USD 1000 worth of free customization. Speak to Our Analyst Now !

Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2021-2025

Detailed information on factors that will assist automotive antenna module market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the automotive antenna module market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the automotive antenna module market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of automotive antenna module market vendors

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Automotive Antenna Module Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2020 Forecast period 2021-2025 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 8% Market growth 2021-2025 USD 525.67 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 6.32 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA Performing market contribution North America at 40% Key consumer countries US, Germany, France, China, Japan, and UK Competitive landscape Leading companies, Competitive strategies, Consumer engagement scope Key companies profiled Amphenol Corp., ANTONICS-ICP GmbH, Continental AG, HARADA INDUSTRY Co. Ltd., Kymeta Corp., Laird Plc, Lorom Industrial Co. Ltd., Schaffner Holding AG, Taoglas Group Holdings Ltd., and TE Connectivity Ltd. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis 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.

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Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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SOURCE Technavio
The wait is almost over for tourists eager to visit New Zealand.

The country, which has had some of the strictest COVID-19 measures around the world, will begin slowly reopening to travel this month but U.S. tourists will have to wait until July, according to a newly announced five-step plan.

The first group of eligible travelers, allowed to enter Feb. 27, will be fully vaccinated people from Australia who meet existing border qualifications. Those include New Zealand citizens, Australians with a primary home in New Zealand, and partners and dependent children of New Zealand residents, among others.

The eligibility pool widens further in March and April but remains largely limited to people like skilled workers, international students and family members of New Zealand residents.

People take in the view at Picton Harbour in Picton, New Zealand, on July 14, 2020.

DO PEOPLE CARE?: The CDC warns US travelers to avoid more than 100 countries

SPRING BREAK 2022: What are the entry, masking requirements at popular beach destinations?

It's not until sometime in July that fully vaccinated visitors from the United States and other non-visa countries will be welcomed back. Travelers from all countries will be able to enter in October. Specific dates have not been announced.

Fully vaccinated visitors will need to take a pre-departure test, self-isolate seven days upon arrival and take two post-arrival rapid antigen tests, which will be provided to them, several days apart.

These actions will lower the risk of COVID-19 entering the community while allowing more families to reunite, and will assist with the economic recovery and immediately address worker shortages," COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said in a Tuesday statement.

Hipkins added that officials will continue to review the self-isolation requirements, "with a view to reducing them over time."

Contributing: Bailey Schulz, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New Zealand travel: Vaccinated US tourists could visit this July
The aptly numbered state Senate Bill 666 proposes to take Missouri one big, hellish step closer to legalizing gun crimes by providing an automatic presumption of self-defense to people who use firearms to threaten or hurt others. It would put the onus on prosecutors to prove otherwise  an exceedingly high burden that promises to help criminals walk free merely by claiming that they used their guns to protect themselves.

Lets say a gunman enters a store to rob the owner. He kills the owner, leaving only the gunman as a witness. Under the bill proposed by state Sen. Eric Burlison, R-Battlefield, the right of police to make arrests in such cases would be muddled because officers would have no one to refute the gunmans claim of self-defense.

Although critics of the measure have surged forth from both parties, many characterize its application as being limited to cases of gun homicides. A closer reading of the bill makes clear that it would apply in any case where a gun is involved to merely threaten another person in supposed self-defense.

This act provides that a person who uses or threatens to use force in self-defense is immune from criminal prosecution and civil action for the use of such force, the bill says. Exclusions apply if the gunman knows the other person is an active-duty officer.

Crucially, the bill states that a law-enforcement agency may not arrest the person for using or threatening to use force unless the agency determines that there is probable cause that the force that was used or threatened was unlawful.

Its the broad reach and vagueness of this bill that makes it so dangerous. Coupled with last years equally vague Second Amendment Protection Act  which has demonstrably blocked law enforcers from doing their jobs for fear of being fined for cooperating in the enforcement of federal gun laws  this bill promises to give a big boost to murderers and gun criminals while making it that much harder for cops to keep their communities safe.

SB 666 doesnt quite defund the police, but it certainly would defang them.

It also seems certain to clog the court system with more frivolous litigation and force judges to err on the side of freeing dangerous individuals who otherwise would deserve to remain behind bars until trial.

Convicted-and-pardoned gunman Mark McCloskey, a Republican U.S. Senate candidate, unsurprisingly backs SB 666. It would enable McCloskey to sit in a rocking chair on his Central West End front porch or walk down the street and take aim at virtually anyone he likes  immune from arrest as long as he claims self-defense.

Its as if the radical rights gun fetish has erased all sense of proportion and reason. Perhaps the biggest joke is the title under which this bill would fall in Missouri code: Presumption of Reasonableness.
Nebraska's first governor, David Butler, was impeached, convicted and removed from office for mishandling about $17,000 of federal school funds. That was in 1871.

Now one state lawmaker wants to let Nebraska voters remove future governors and members of the Legislature through the recall process.

Sen. Tom Briese of Albion introduced LR268CA, which would amend the state Constitution to allow for such recalls. Details of the process would have to be determined by future legislation.

On Wednesday, he told members of the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee that the proposal fits with Nebraska's long-standing tradition that the people act as the "second house" of government and can make laws through initiative and referendum petitions.

Allowing recalls of state elected officials would make it possible to get bad actors out of office without having to wait for the next election, he said. State law already allows recalls of local elected officials.

"I think it is a process Nebraskans would use judiciously, but I think it is a process they deserve to have in place," Briese said, pointing to the experience of other states.

Doug Kagan with Nebraska Taxpayers for Freedom endorsed the measure, saying that it would encourage officials to be more responsive and accountable to constituents. He said members of his group get frustrated now when candidates do not keep their campaign promises and recall elections would be a way to address that issue.

Kagan also said he would favor expanding the proposal to include other state elected offices, such as state auditor, attorney general and secretary of state.

No one appeared at Wednesday's hearing to speak against the measure.

Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue questioned the potential cost of a special recall election. She suggested the measure require recall votes to be held at the next upcoming election.

Currently, 20 states allow for the recall of governors, including Colorado and Kansas. Four gubernatorial recall elections have been held and two governors have been recalled, North Dakota's Gov. Lynn Frazier in 1921 and California's Gov. Gray Davis in 2003.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom survived a recall election last year, as did Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker in 2012.

The 19 states that allow for the recall of state legislators have had 39 recall elections, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Voters recalled 22 of those lawmakers, although two resigned before the election results were certified.
Without campaigning in the state or devoting much in the way of resources to it, Biden swept to victory by a wide margin in Tuesday's Oklahoma Democratic Party primary, claiming nearly 40 percent of the vote to 24 percent for Sanders, 15 percent for former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and 13 percent for Oklahoma City native and Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren.
Columbus Mavhunga

Villagers in Zimbabwe say a Chinese mining company has told them they will have to leave their homes to make way for a granite quarry. The company denies plans to forcibly move the villagers, but a lack of transparency has many fearing they will be pushed out of their ancestral land.

Some villagers in Zimbabwes Mutoko District say they are not sure what the future holds now that Chinese companies such as Jinding Mining are exploring quarry mining in the region.

Most are reluctant to even talk about it, for fear of retaliation.

But this 42-year-old farmer, who asked that his name be withheld, is eager to speak out about the companys plan to mine an area that stretches across 180 hectares and includes some of their homes.

The area they want is where we live and where our cattle graze. Its our source of income. We wonder where we will go, the area they want is too huge. Our ancestors' graves are there, too. We wonder where they will relocate them, said the farmer.

Activists say more than 50 families could be forced out by one mining company alone.

Richard Ncube of the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association said his group plans to ask the courts to prevent the eviction of villagers.

ln order to help the communities, we are raising awareness on environmental issues. We are researching on these issues in order to inform legal reform and then we take matters to court as a last resort to have their remedies addressed or issues addressed, he said.

An environmental impact report by Jinding Mining has addressed the concerns of villagers, said Amkela Sidange from Zimbabwes Environmental Management Agency.

What we only do as the agency is to take the project that is brought by the project owner, we go through it, we verify whether what is being indicated in the report that consultations were done, were really done. We actually go to the ground and triangulate to check if what is in the report is what actually took place on the ground, said Sidange.

The farmer who spoke to VOA said the Jinding company asked no ordinary people about their concerns over the mining project, only the local leaders.

Officials at Jinding and the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe were not available to comment.

In a statement, the embassy said Chinese investors in Zimbabwe are working for the betterment of the country.
FILE PHOTO: A parking bay reserved for electric car charging can be seen on display in London, Britain, October 19, 2018. REUTERS/Simon Dawson

By Pratima Desai and Zandi Shabalala

LONDON (Reuters) - Accelerating sales of electric vehicles have fuelled a scramble for nickel, cobalt and lithium, propelling prices of the battery materials to multi-year highs

Phasing out internal combustion engine (ICE) cars in favour of electric vehicles is part of the energy transition and efforts to cut carbon emissions.

More than 6.36 million electric vehicles were sold last year globally compared with 3.10 million in 2020, data from Rho Motion shows. China accounted for half of the total last year and 40% the previous year. (Graphic: Electric vehicle sales - Rho Motion, https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/xmvjojrrdpr/aa%20Electric%20vehicle%20sales.PNG)

NICKEL

Shortages of nickel have led to draws on stocks in London Metal Exchange approved warehouses , which at 88,182 tonnes have dropped 65% since April last year.

More pertinent are stocks of bagged briquette, easily crushed into small particles and dissolved in sulphuric acid to make nickel sulphate for batteries, at 65,676 tonnes down 67% since last April. (Graphic: LME nickel inventories, https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/zdpxoaxejvx/AA%20NICKEL%20inventories.PNG)

Analysts say most of this briquette has been shipped to China, which controls the electric vehicle supply chain.

Wood Mackenzie analyst Andrew Mitchell estimates total nickel demand at 2.8 million tonnes last year, of which 69% was used to make stainless steel and 11% to make batteries, from 71% and 7% respectively in 2020.

Mitchell expects batteries' share of nickel demand to rise to 13% this year. "We are looking at higher average prices this year."

Nickel hit $24,435 a tonne last week, the highest since August 2011. It is expected to retreat later this year as supplies ramp up. (Graphic: Nickel prices, https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/zjvqkaygwvx/AA%20nickel%20price.PNG)

Macquarie's Jim Lennon expects nickel supplies to rise 14.5% this year to three million tonnes and a surplus of 43,000 tonnes from a deficit of 159,000 tonnes in 2021.

COBALT

Coronavirus lockdowns in southern Africa created bottlenecks that delayed shipments to China from Democratic Republic of Congo, which accounts for more than 70% of global supplies.

"Chinese imports of cobalt hydroxide only increased 2.5% to 82,100 tonnes last year from 2020, meaning domestic stocks were drawn down considerably," said Benchmark Mineral Intelligence (BMI) analyst Caspar Rawles. (Graphic: Cobalt market balances - Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/myvmnjkkepr/aa%20cobalt%20market%20balances.PNG)

BMI expects total cobalt demand at 177,500 tonnes this year, of which 104,000 tonnes will be consumed by the battery sector.

Cobalt prices at around $70,000 a tonne are at their highest since July 2018. Traders expect further gains as Chinese consumers restock. (Graphic: Cobalt prices, https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/gdvzynmeepw/aa%20cobalt%20price.PNG)

LITHIUM

Deficits have pushed prices of lithium carbonate to record highs above $50,000 a tonne in China, according to BMI. (Graphic: Lithium prices - Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/xmpjojrndvr/aa%20lithium%20prices.PNG)

Lithium carbonate is used for lithium iron phosphate (LFP)batteries. Sales of electric vehicles which use these batteries have accelerated in China.

Lack of investment in capacity due to sliding prices in the three years to 2021 means deficits are likely for some years.

"Supply is struggling to keep up with demand, given long lead times to bring first production from lithium resources to market," said BMI analyst George Miller.

Electric vehicle batteries can use lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide. The industry typically talks of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) which contains both.

BMI estimates demand for lithium carbonate equivalent at 610,000 tonnes this year, up from 490,000 tonnes last year, and a deficit of 26,000 tonne from a shortfall of 12,000 tonne. (Graphic: Lithium market balance - Benchmark Minderal Intelligence, https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/byvrjxkqmve/AA%20lithium%20market%20balance.PNG)

(Reporting by Pratima Desai Editing by Mark Potter)
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Thursday, rested its case in a pension fraud trial involving a former Head of Service of the Federation, Stephen Oronsaye.

The anti-graft agency closed its case with the testimony of its 21st prosecution witness.

It will now be the turn of Mr Oronsaye and his co-defendants to open their defence to the 49 charges of money laundering involving N2 billion in public funds.

EFCC alleged in the charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja that the defendants siphoned the money through a biometric enrolment contract purportedly for the reform of the civil service pension system.

Mr Oronsanye faces the charges along with Osarenkhoe Afe, the managing director, Fredrick Hamilton Global Services Limited, a firm fingered by the anti-corruption agency in the scam.

In November last year, a former chairperson of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team (PRTT), Abdulrasheed Maina, indicted in the extensive pension reform scam, was jailed eight years by the Federal High Court in Abuja for money laundering offences involving N2 billion.

The judgement convicting and jailing Mr Maina was tendered by the EFCC to strengthen its case against Mr Oronsaye and his co-defendants on Tuesday.

Last prosecution witness testimony

EFCCs 21st and last prosecution witness, Umar Abba Tilde, a Compliance Officer with Zenith Bank Plc, while testifying on two withdrawals of millions of naira from a pension account, on Thursday, said Mr Oronsaye was at no time a signatory to the federal pension accounts.

He could also not ascertain whether Mr Oronsaye ever made an endorsement for withdrawal from the accounts.

On the outflows from one of the accounts, the banker told the trial judge, Inyang Ekwo, that two withdrawals  N161, 472, 00 million and N28, 375, 000  were transferred from a pension account to a company on July 6, and July 7, 2010 respectively.

Led in evidence, by EFCCs lawyer, Oluwaleke Atolagbe, Mr Tilde confirmed that mandates relating to the pension accounts were submitted by his bank to the EFCC in January 2020 based on request.

The witness further told the court that a letter of August 24, 2010, signed by Mr Oronsaye as then Head of Service of the Federation (HoS), instructed the bank that all e-payments must henceforth have final endorsement from the office.

However, under cross-examination by Mr Joe Agi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr Oronsayes lead defence counsel, the witness said that the former HOS did not sign mandate for the two transfers made in 2010.

In addition, he informed the judge that Mr Oronsaye was not a signatory to the pension accounts adding thatShuiab Sani Teidi, Eunice Chide, Mohammed Kaltung Ahmed, Hassan Mohammed and Attah Danladi, were the signatories to the accounts.

Answering a question, the witness also admitted that he was in Kano branch of the bank when the two transfers were made and would not know if Mr Oronsaye ever made any endorsement.

Prosecution closes case

At the end of Mr Tildes testimony, the prosecuting counsel announced the closure of the EFCCs case against the defendants. Twenty other prosecution witnesses had previously testified with several documents tendered by the anti-graft agency as exhibits.

Defence lawyer, Mr Agi, applied for an adjournment to open his clients case. He indicated that he would be calling two witnesses.

Subsequently, the judge fixed March 9 and 10 for Mr Oronsaye to open his defence.

Backstory

In 2014, PREMIUM TIMES exclusively reported how the Auditor-General of the Federation indicted Mr Oronsaye for the N123 billion allegedly diverted between 2009 and 2010 under his watch.

The 169-page report titled Special Audit of the Accounts of the Civil Pensions, uncovered humongous financial irregularities, outright stealing and kickbacks.

READ ALSO:

The report found that the pension payroll was never subjected to internal audit between June 2009 and December 2010; and that over N52 billion paid as monthly pension under Mr Oronsaye remained unaccounted for.

Similarly, another witness, Salami Adesoka, narrated before the court how in 2015, he was instructed by the then permanent secretary in the Office of the HoS to submit business account names.

Also, during Mr Mainas trial, Rouqquaya Ibrahim, an EFCC investigator, had told the court how investigations revealed that Messrs Maina and Oronsaye allegedly used five modules to loot about N14 billion from pension accounts.

Ms Ibrahim had said Mr Oronsaye illegally operated 66 accounts in his offices name without the approval of the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.
A mystery dog illness which sparked a warning for pet owners to stop walking their pets on beaches may have been caused by a coronavirus, experts have today claimed.

Pet owners across the country were put on alert last month after hundreds of dogs fell ill following walks on UK beaches - with a high number of reports coming from Yorkshire.

At least one dog, a 'fit and strong' Great Dane, died from a suspected lung infection following a visit Hayling Island beach near Portsmouth, Hampshire.

Vets had initially feared polluted sea water around the UK could have been behind the spate of severe vomiting and diarrhoea cases.

One veterinary nurse even issued a warning to dog owners to avoid the beach after noticing a 'high increase' of dogs coming into practices with the mystery illness.

But researchers from the University of Liverpool now believe the 'outbreak' of acute gastrointestinal (GI) disease may have been caused by a type of coronavirus.

At least one dog, a 'fit and strong' Great Dane Odin (pictured), died from a suspected lung infection following a visit Hayling Island beach near Portsmouth, Hampshire

Vets had initially feared polluted sea water around the UK (pictured: One dog fell ill after walking at Robin Hood's Bay in North Yorkshire) could have been behind the spate of severe vomiting and diarrhoea cases. One veterinary nurse even issued a warning to dog owners to avoid the beach after noticing a 'high increase' of dogs coming into practices with the mystery illness

Researchers now believe the 'outbreak' of acute gastrointestinal (GI) disease may have been caused by a type of coronavirus

Canine Enteric Coronavirus (CEC), has been around for years and is not linked to Covid-19 Canine Enteric Coronavirus - or CEC - has been around for years and is an RNA virus belonging to the coronavirus family. Whilst this large family of viruses includes some important human pathogens, it is important to emphasise that CECoV is not closely related to human coronaviruses like SARS-CoV2, the cause of COVID-19. CEC therefore poses no risks to humans who come into contact with infected dogs. While CEC infects thousands of dogs each year, it usually only causes mild illness, such as diarrhoea. On rare occasions, severe disease (and death) can occur in dogs which are repeatedly infected with CEC and other gastrointestinal bugs (e.g. canine distemper virus, parvovirus). Dogs in group housing settings, such as shelters and kennels, are most commonly infected. Source: Liverpool.ac.uk , vet.osu.edu Advertisement

Experts say it is usual for GI cases to peak in January. However they say there was an outbreak of more severe GI disease affecting dogs nationally in January to May 2020.

They believe this was associated with a coronavirus variant known as a canine enteric coronavirus (CECoV) variant. The variant is not linked to the Cov-Sars-2 - the virus that causes Covid-19.

Today The University of Liverpool's Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network SAVSNET), which has been studying the recent spate of dog illnesses, believe a similar outbreak may have occurred this January.

'Analysis of real-time data collected by SAVSNET from veterinary practices suggests that in Yorkshire, levels of disease have been statistically higher than we would expect for three weeks  we can therefore call this an outbreak in Yorkshire,' SAVSNET said in the report.

However the experts said it had seen normal seasonal variation in other parts of the country.

They also said laboratory data had suggested existing pathogens like parvovirus had not been involved in the recent spate.

However they urged caution on the link to CECoV and the spate of dog illnesses, saying it was 'premature' based on current data.

The report adds: 'Data from laboratories suggests that similar to previous winters, CECoV appears to be more common in samples submitted for testing at this time of year.

'Because of this, and our previous association of CECoV to the 2020 outbreak, it would be tempting to speculate on a role for CECoV in current cases of GI disease.

'However, that would be premature based on our current data.'

Commenting on the results, Professor Alan Radford, academic lead for SAVSNET, said: 'Analysis of real-time data collected by SAVSNET from veterinary practices suggests that in Yorkshire, levels of disease have been statistically higher than we would expect for three weeks  we can therefore call this an outbreak in Yorkshire.

'In other regions, the increases we have seen so far look more like normal seasonal variation.

However, such signals can change quickly, and we will continue to monitor the situation.'

The report meanwhile has also appeared to calm earlier suggestions that the spate of illness reports could be linked to beaches.

Experts say it is usual for GI cases to peak in January. However they say there was an outbreak of more severe GI disease affecting dogs nationally in January to May 2020 (pictured: A graphic showing the spike in January 2020)

The report found the majority (79 per cent) of dogs had not visited the beach prior to becoming ill

Many cases were reported inland and away from the coast, the report found.

It also found the vast majority of cases (94 per cent) had been vaccinated in the last three years.

SAVSNET's advice for dog owners if they believe their dog is suffering from acute GI disease Acute GI disease like that being described in these cases is always unpleasant regardless of the cause, and regardless of whether it affects an individual dog or many; in severe cases, especially if left untreated, it can be life threatening. If you are an owner concerned about the health of your pet, then please contact your own veterinary surgeon who is best placed to offer advice, and treatment if necessary. Regardless of whether the pattern of disease in your area is normal or not, if your dog does have vomit and / or diarrhoea, it makes sense to keep it away from other dogs (isolate) at least whilst it is ill and preferably a few days longer just in case it is infectious. And if your dog does defecate or vomit in a public place, then it is even more important to clear up after them, washing your own hands carefully afterwards. Close contact with affected dogs, and their vomit and diarrhoea are likely to be the main ways that GI bugs are transmitted. Advertisement

The majority (56 per cent) of the 88 owners who had more than one dog reported that other dogs in the household had also shown similar signs possibly suggesting in infectious cause.

The report also found that the majority of dogs appeared to recover within 7-14 days, although over 60 per cent required treatment of some form.

Despite the positive results, SAVSNET experts have urged pet owners to remain vigilant.

Project coordinator Bethaney Brant added: 'Although the cause is unknown it is likely to be infectious.

'It therefore makes sense for owners and vets to handle suspect cases carefully, and limit contact between affected and unaffected dogs.

'Thankfully affected dogs usually make a full recovery with appropriate care and there is no known risk to people.

'Owners of suspect cases should contact their veterinary practice for advice.'

The report comes after hundreds of dogs reportedly fell ill on beaches sparking warnings from vets to avoid coastal walks.

Veterinary nurse Brogan Proud, who runs Yorkshire Coast Pet Care, warned dog walkers to avoid the beaches after noticing a 'high increase' in pets suffering with diarrhoea and vomiting.

Her post sparked hundreds of Facebook posts from concerned and confused owners, reporting how their beloved pets have been struck down in recent days with 'brutal' symptoms including 'severe sickness and diarrhoea'.

The British Veterinary Association said it is aware of reports. But it said at the time that there was no evidence linking walks on the beach to the bug.

Ashley Brown-Bolton said she took her nine-month-old beagle spaniel Copper to Fraisthorpe Beach in the East Riding on Sunday, and he started vomiting on Monday.

She said the dog suffered diarrhoea and was unable to keep water for 24 hours and she took him to the vets on Tuesday.

She said: 'The ones who know him know he's normally very lively & always wanting to play so for him to be very sleepy & just not interested isn't like him at all.

It comes after a dog owner told how his 'fit and strong' one-year-old Great Dane died after he developed a lung infection from swimming in 'polluted' sea water.

David Arthur's 13-month-old dog Odin went swimming every day at Hayling Island beach near Portsmouth, Hampshire, but had to be put to sleep after developing a lung infection.

Mr Arthur, 59, from Cowplain, had already spent 6,000 on treating Odin but vets said the dog's lungs were too badly damaged from pneumonia, with vets pointing to the sea as a likely cause of infection.

Ashley Brown-Bolton said she took her nine-month-old beagle spaniel Copper to Fraisthorpe Beach in the East Riding on Sunday, and he started vomiting on Monday.

Miniature dachshund Honey (pictured) fell ill and stayed at a vet's for three nights after developing haemorrhagic gastroenteritis

Jo Owen Blb said she takes her two male dogs to the beach between three and four times a week, but both have fallen ill. German Shepherd Oscar (pictured), has not recovered more than a week later

'We have taken him to the vets this morning who have given him a anti sickness jab & got to keep a eye on him over the next 24hours. Plenty of rest & snuggles.

'Please just be careful as it has been heart-breaking & very worrying seeing our little pup so unwell. Hopefully he's going to be on the mend now.'

Lorraine Suzanne Moore said she 'nearly lost' her Miniature Dachshund Honey after she became seriously ill following a trip to Redcar beach in Teesside.

She said: 'It's very upsetting to read that so many dogs are falling ill... we nearly lost our miniature dachshund, Honey.

'We walked her on Redcar beach on Sunday then the next day she ended up staying for three nights in medical care at Stockton with haemorrhagic gastroenteritis.'

Another pet owner added: 'Walked both our dogs along the beach from Seaton Carew to Hartlepool last Friday.

'On Saturday around 3pm the male started projectile vomiting & went down hill pretty quickly resulting in an emergency vet visit Saturday night, drip medication etc.

'The next day our golden retriever bitch repeated the same pattern, although she is way tougher than him & dealt with it much easier. Both are still recovering five days on, him more slowly than her.

'Two young fit dogs & what ever hit them was pretty brutal. No idea what caused it really, but the beach visit sounds like the main suspect.'

It comes after Yorkshire Coast Pet Care shared a post warning pet owners against visiting the area after a spate of incidents started two weeks ago.

They posted on Facebook about the bizarre illness which attracted more than 1,000 responses with many dog owners sharing their experiences.

Their post said: 'I work within several practices up and down the North East coast and we have recently been inundated with dogs coming off the beaches with vomiting and diarrhoea.'

Dog owner Cath Baggins said her cocker spaniel puppy Roo spent six days in a vets after visiting Bridlington

A number of pet owners responded to the warning on Facebook with examples of their pets falling ill after taking trips to beaches in Yorkshire

Aaron Yeates took his French bulldog Ada to Robin Hood's Bay over the New Year and said his dog became ill after they returned home.

The sickness and diarrhoea led to two trips to the vets and Ada is only now starting to recover.

Aaron said: 'She's lost a considerable amount of weight. Her harness barely fits.'

Another dog owner said: 'My six-month-old Lab has had horrendous diarrhoea for the past four days , thankfully he's now almost back to his usual self.'

'I was going to contact the vets today if there was no improvement. We have walked on both the beach at Robin Hoods Bay and the railway line at Bay / Thorpe .'

One dog walker added: 'My dog fell ill last weekend after being walked down the gare at Redcar ..five day's he was ill whilst in the vets there was also another dog who had been walked down there and was ill.'

According to the Guardian, Yorkshire Coast Pet Care claimed last month that animals had fallen ill after trips to Scarborough, Robin Hood's Bay, Whitby and Marske-by-the-sea.

Kirsty Salisbury, coastal general manager for East Riding council, said last month that a team sent to inspect the beaches had not discovered anything out of the ordinary.

She added: 'From reports from local veterinary surgeries, the illness they are seeing within dogs and the tests carried out have not provided any direct links with the use of beaches.'

'We can't speculate on what might be at play in this situation, and there is currently no evidence to suggest a direct link between the illness and the dogs visiting the beaches.

'However, we'd recommend that all dog owners should be vigilant to signs of possible illness in dogs, including vomiting and diarrhoea, and seek urgent veterinary advice if they're worried.'

Following the public outcry over the dogs falling ill, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said that it was aware of the incidents and was communicating with the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

British Veterinary Association President Justine Shotton said last month there was no evidence linking walks on the beach to the bug.

She added: 'We can't speculate on what might be at play in this situation, and there is currently no evidence to suggest a direct link between the illness and the dogs visiting the beaches.

'However, we'd recommend that all dog owners should be vigilant to signs of possible illness in dogs, including vomiting and diarrhoea, and seek urgent veterinary advice if they're worried.'
Sudanese security forces fired tear gas on Thursday to disperse thousands of demonstrators demanding justice for 79 people killed following last year's military coup, an AFP correspondent said.

In the capital Khartoum, protesters used rocks to build makeshift barriers blocking roads, while across the Nile river in North Khartoum, crowds of over 2,000 people chanted slogans against the security forces.

In Omdurman, the capital's twin city, some 5,000 people gathered outside the home of 27-year-old Mohammed Yussef, a protester who died after he was shot in the chest during rallies on Sunday.

More than three months after the October 25 takeover led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan in the troubled northeast African country, defiant mass rallies demanding a restoration of the transition to civilian rule show few signs of abating.

The coup, one of several in Sudan's post-independence history, derailed a fragile power-sharing arrangement between the army and civilians that had been painstakingly negotiated after the 2019 ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

At least 79 people have been killed and hundreds wounded in the crackdown on anti-coup demonstrations, according to the independent group of medics.

In central Khartoum, Burhan on Thursday met with United Nations special representative Volker Perthes, with the envoy urging him "to end the violence that accompanies the demonstrations", according to state media.

The UN, which has launched talks between factions in a bid to resolve the crisis, has constantly warned the authorities against using force to stop political protests.

'No warning'

Map of the Sudanese capital of Khartoum.. By (AFP)

Sudan's authorities have repeatedly denied using live ammunition against demonstrators, reporting scores of security officers have been wounded and a police general was stabbed to death.

However, the authorities said they had recently "confiscated" rifles from some officers who were seen using them in videos circulating on social media.

But Human Rights Watch on Thursday said that security forces at rallies last month had "used live ammunition against unarmed protesters", reporting that anti-riot police had also "fired tear gas canisters directly at protesters at the front of the march."

HRW said it had detailed violence that took place on January 17 when at least eight protesters were killed, the second deadliest day since the coup.

Six witnesses told HRW they had seen a "militarised police unit" open fire on protesters "at multiple locations throughout the day", while other "regular police beat and arrested peaceful protesters".

One 26-year-old protester told HRW how police fired the metal tear gas canisters into the crowds, which can cause severe injury.

"As we retreated to find cover from the tear gas, I was hit in the back by a canister," the protester told HRW. "I also saw two other protesters being hit in the head and chest."

Another protesters reported that "there was no warning nor provocation from our side" before police opened fire.

Sudan, which was already in the grip of a dire economic crisis before the coup, has seen vital foreign aid cut as part of the international community's condemnation of the takeover.

Washington, which suspended $700 million in assistance to Sudan after the coup, has warned that a continued crackdown by the authorities would have "consequences".

On Tuesday, US Assistant Secretary of State Molly Phee said she had "made clear to military leaders, we in concert with our partners are prepared to apply additional costs should the current pattern of violence continue".

The United States was "reviewing the full range of traditional and non-traditional tools at our disposal to further reduce the funds available to Sudan's military regime", she added.

Sudan's military controls vast business enterprises, ranging from poultry farming to construction, and Phee said the US planned "to isolate its military-controlled companies, and to increase the reputational risk for any who choose to continue to engage in 'business-as-usual' with Sudanese security services".
Lucknow:

As many as 18 personnel including a sub-inspector of a police outpost have been suspended in connection with Tuesdays firing in a courtroom in Bijnor which led to the death of a murder accused, officials said on Wednesday. Apart from the sub-inspector, the 17 other suspended personnel are in the rank of constable, with five of them women. All of them were attached to the police outpost Jajji, located inside the court premises.

On Tuesday, assailants opened fire in a courtroom in Bijnor, killing a murder accused and injuring two policemen. Another murder accused took advantage of the commotion and managed to escape from the spot.

Eighteen police personnel, including a sub-inspector, of a police outpost have been suspended for laxity in connection with yesterdays firing in Bijnor courtroom. The rest of the 17 are constables. This includes 12 male constables and five female constables, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Awanish Awasthi said in a statement.

While recommending their suspension, Circle Officer (City) Arun Kumar Singh wrote a letter to Bijnor Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Tyagi, saying, It is expected from the police personnel on duty that they should allow any person to enter the court premises only after proper checking and frisking.

Though the job of checking and frisking is quite challenging, as it has led to disputes between the police and advocates in the past, and a case has been registered. But, even then, the police personnel deployed in the security of the court are expected to discharge their duty with full dedication. However, this was not done, and as a result of which, the incident took place, Singh said.

Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in the court premises in Muzaffarnagar in view of the firing incident in the Bijnor court. Every person entering the court premises, except the staff and lawyers, are being physically checked.

The Muzaffarnagar court had witnessed a similar incident in 2015, when an armed man entered the courtroom masquerading as a lawyer and shot dead Vicky Tyagi, an alleged gangster.

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A settlement between the Selah Alliance For Equality and the city of Selah has hit a snag over the use of Chief Owhi's name for a park.
The 18 films of Joel and Ethan Coen are remarkable for their range of story content, from gangster tales to Hollywood stories to modern comedy, Westerns, and complex allegories. Through most, if not all of them, run a double thread: the masculine need to counter bad actions with good ones, and the feminine role in shaping the masculine.

Despite current talk about toxic masculinity, masculinity itself is neither good nor bad. It is a condition. To repeat a generally accepted view, masculinity relates to the outer world with the goal of problem-solving. By contrast, femininity is the condition of relating to the inner world with the goal of nurturing.

Both sexes contain both conditions as potential, but the physical characteristics of eachsuch as more muscle-making testosterone in men, and the ability to bear children in womenmean that men show greater masculinity overall, while women are generally more feminine. While these obvious facts are today denied by some, they are central to understanding the Coen brothers films. (They are handy in life, as well.)

The Coen Brothers, Ethan (L) and Joel, at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival. (Public Domain)

Brief looks, here, at four Coen brothers films suggest how the double theme plays out.

The Masculine Protector

The Coens remake of True Grit (2010) is a quantum advance on the 1969 film of the Charles Portis novel because it recognizes that the story is about Mattie rather than Rooster Cogburn. At the outset, it is she, not Rooster, who possesses the quality of the movies title. Matties father has been murdered, and she is intent on finding and punishing his killer.

Promotional ad for True Grit (2010) with (LR) Hailee Steinfeld, Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, and Josh Brolin. (Paramount Pictures)

This brings out masculine characteristics of determination and purposeful actiontrue grit. A child of 14, Mattie realizes that she needs a man to help her, so she hires Rooster Cogburn, a federal marshal with a reputation for ruthlessness and heavy drinking. Matties fierce mental determination and Roosters dominating physicality, abetted by a semicomical Texas Ranger, launch a search for the killer.

As the manhunt continues, Matties feminine aspects begin to grow, first in her gentleness toward Rooster, despite growing awareness of his drunken incompetence, and more poignantly in burgeoning feelings of love for the Texas Ranger. At the storys climax, Mattie kills her fathers murderer, paying for it when the recoil from her revolver throws her into a snake pit and she is bitten.

It is at this pointand not during the famous duel on horseback just before, a vain act which Rooster botchesthat Rooster is roused from his slumbering masculinity to fulfill one of a mans most solemn masculine obligations: to protect. Rooster throws Mattie on her horse (his has been shot from under him), rides until the horse collapses of exhaustion, and then carries her in his arms to get her to a doctor. Mattie loses an arm, but her life is saved.

Masculinity Saved by the Feminine

In The Big Lebowski (1998), set in the early 90s, the main character of The Dude (Jeff Bridges) is an echo of the 1960s, of hippiedom and drugs and an ineffectual lifestyle. He is the furthest thing from masculine as a man might be. And yet the film opens with Tumbling Tumbleweeds sung by the Sons of the Pioneers, conjuring John Wayne and John Ford and the celebrated masculinity of the cowboy.

Promotional poster for The Big Lebowski. (Gramercy Pictures)

A voiceover (which we later learn is movie cowboy icon Sam Elliott) tells us that while the city of Los Angeles isnt exactly what the pioneers had in mind, sometimes there is a man.   The phrase is repeated several times as an introduction to The Dude, also known as Jeff Lebowski.

Clearly, he is the man. But in what respect? The Dude is a figure of ridicule, not heroism, so its hilarious that his suppressed masculinity is aroused when an intruder urinates on his rug. In possibly the only action The Dude has taken outside the bowling alley in years, he steals another rug to replace it. This sets off a series of unlikely events that along the way find him in bed with the only female character in the film. She becomes pregnant, and by the time Sam Elliott returns to narrate the films conclusion, a little Lebowski is on the way.

This singularly female or feminine act, a womans nurturing of his seed, saves The Dude. His misadventures have come to naught, but The Dude abides, as the characters last lines have it.

We should have known that something like this would happen, because the songs chosen by the Coens frequently give away a films theme. And twice in the early scenes of The Big Lebowski, we hear Bob Dylans The Man in Me with the core lines, Take a woman like your kind/ To find the man in me. Sometimes there is a man. But theres always a woman.

Masculine Obligation to Provide

In A Serious Man (2009), a loose updating of the biblical Book of Job, physics professor Larry Gopnik is an ineffectual family man whose wife leaves him for another: Sy Ableman (Sy, able man.)

Promotional ad for the Coen Brothers A Serious Man. (Focus Features)

At the same time, his ill and clinging brother mooches off Larry and his son; Larrys son is approaching his bar mitzvah and is a nascent stoner. Larry consults two rabbis in the search for understanding. The first gives him pointless non-advice, while the second references Kabbalah mysticism.

Larry fails to fight for his wife, but in the end, things rectify of their own accord. Larrys son, in connection with a Hebrew school offense, is brought before a third, elderly rabbi. That rabbis simple admonition, Be a good boy, echoes the moral of the films key song, Jefferson Airplanes Somebody to Love.

Reflection on the plot makes it clear that an important element in a mans loving somebody is the masculine trait of providing for them, emotionally as well as physically, of being an able man. We see that, but were not sure Larry has learned the lesson.

Another film, Hail, Caesar! (2016), set in 1951 Hollywood, concerns Eddie Mannix, who is a Hollywood fixerthat is, someone whose job it is to keep the negative aspects of stars lives under wraps. Its a comedy about faith. Eddie (based on a real-life figure of the same name) must decide between keeping his job or accepting a much more lucrative position with Lockheed.

He must decide between doing what he loves and doing what he thinks might be better for his family, while in the middle of resolving the abduction of one of his studios biggest stars by a communist writers cabal. His wife, the epitome of feminine support for the masculine, doesnt push for more money, but she urges him to decide the best course of action.

When his priest echoes this with God wants us to do what is right, Eddie knows the answer. Faith is the feminine sister to masculine reason that lets us know our path, if only we surrender to it. (Faith is the single word forgotten at the end of a speech by the star in the movie-within-movie, Hail, Caesar!) Masculine action without it is doomed, like the ransom collected by the communists, which slips into the Pacific at a crucial moment.

These films are much richer than such brief summaries can convey. The intertwining themes of masculine spark and feminine womb space run throughout them as they do through many of the other 14 films in the brothers canon so far. They run through our lives as well.
It came as no surprise to learn that behind the scenes of Apple TV+ hit CODA, the powers that be initially wanted to cast a hearing man in the role of Frank Rossi, a deaf character. Hollywood has a fraught history when it comes to disability representation: Though about 1 in 4 adults nationwide are disabled in some capacity, onscreen portrayals lag far behind, and most disabled characters are still played by nondisabled actors, a practice known as cripping up. Fortunately for CODA, Marlee Matlin refused to be involved in the project if a hearing person were cast as her characters husband and recommended Troy Kotsur instead. Thank goodness she did. His nuanced portrayal of a rough-around-the-edges fisherman, husband, and father earned Kotsur a Golden Globe nomination and now has the Oscar predictors buzzing about a Best Supporting Actor nod.

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That buzz is warranted. CODA centers on Ruby Rossi (Emilia Jones), the hearing daughter in a working-class Deaf family who wants to leave her small coastal Massachusetts town to attend Berklee College of Music. Kotsur, playing Rubys father, is a supporting actor in a traditional sense, his performance all about creating opportunities for his fellow actors to shine. No category fraud here, eitherin a runtime of an hour and 51 minutes, hes onscreen for just 25. Still, Kotsurs scenes are some of the most memorable of the movie, and at times, he shoulders the emotional heft of the film entirely.

Kotsurs portrayal of Frank is my favorite kind of performance: a total transformation. As a Deaf person with an interest in theater and film, Im familiar with the work of most of todays professional deaf and hard-of-hearing performers. Ive seen Kotsurs work on TV and in person on Broadway. But in CODA, his scraggly look and unrefined demeanor had me totally fooledno ping of recognition, nothing. I had a facepalm moment when I checked IMDb post-film and saw his name. To my mind this is one of the measurements of a great character actor: the ability to disappear completely. At the same time, Kotsur holds his own alongside Marlee Matlin, herself an Academy Award winner, and still manages to steal scenes. (Matlin remains the only deaf awardee in any Oscar category, a record I imagine shed be happy for Kotsur to break.)

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Because hes not speaking English in the film, I do worry that some of the brilliance of Kotsurs performance will be lost on viewers who dont know American Sign Language (ASL). The global success of shows like Netflixs smash hit Squid Game demonstrates that streaming viewers are more willing than ever to take on subtitled materialbut, as that show also brought to the fore, a lot can slip through the translation cracks.

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[Read: Netflixs Botched Translation Misses a Key Part of Squid Game]

Much of what makes Frank so delightful is the utter raunchiness in Kotsurs delivery. Often times disabled characters are written as inexperienced or asexual, a stereotype refuted by the movies three deaf, horny characters: Frank, his wife Jackie (Matlin), and their son Leo (Daniel Durant) Rossi. But when it comes to filth, Kotsur is a poet. When Frank explains to his daughter why he likes playing loud rap music in the car, the subtitles say, My whole ass is vibrating. A lesser signer (say, a hearing one), might have stuck closer to English word-ordermight even have fingerspelled the word A-S-S. Kotsur gives us the cheeks, shows exactly how they jiggle. When Frank praises Jackies figure, the subtitles say, Your mothers so hot, how am I supposed to control myself? Kotsur traces the contours of her hips and breasts in the air, mimes smacking her butt. When hes angry at the fishmongers who take a hefty cut of the fishermens earnings, the subtitles say, Id give my left nut to tell them to go screw. But Kotsur describes taking off his testicle and transforms it into a grenade, pulling out the pin with his teeth and throwing it over his shoulder at the warehouse.

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Hopefully, viewers will be able to follow some of the comedic work Kotsur is doing even if they dont know ASL, at least in the most concrete instances, like when Kotsur, emphasizing the importance of using a condom to Rubys hearing love interest, imitates a soldier putting on a helmet and uses his entire forearm as a sample penis. But Kotsurs performance isnt just about humorits about authenticity. ASL is known for its bluntness, and Kotsur brings this element of Deaf culture in a charming manner while also lending balance to a movie that threatens to capsize into full schmaltz.

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[Read: Theres More to the ASL Performances in CODA Than Nonsigners Realize]

Kotsurs penchant for no-holds-barred filth makes Franks moments of tenderness toward his daughter that much more powerful. When I first found out this movie was going to be about a hearing daughter of a Deaf family who liked to sing, I will admit there was much rolling of the eyes. Hearing people just cant seem to help themselves when it comes to the Tragedy of the Music-less Deaf People (see: Mr. Hollands Opus, The Sound of Metal). Thankfully, Kotsur injects some much-needed nuance to this tired theme. In back-to-back scenes, Frank gives us the full continuum of the Deaf experience of music. At times, its deeply boringat a school concert, Kotsur looks around, realizes his shirt is buttoned crooked, and he and Jackie discuss what they should have for dinner. Then, later, alone with his daughter, theres another side of musica uniquely deaf experience, intimate and lovely, the feeling of a song.

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In lesser hands, this interaction could have been maudlin or cliche, as it involves Frank touching his daughters throat to feel the vibrations of her singing, but Kotsurs steady intensity grounds newcomer Jones and makes the moment less about tired deaf tropes and more about the intricacies of parent-child relationships. It even puts this viewer in a generous enough headspace to overlook the syrupy sweetness of the Berklee audition scene that is arguably the movies actual climax.

Films in which nondisabled actors play disabled characters are notoriously Oscar bait. Usually the narratives are inspirational, designed to tug at the heartstrings, and (nondisabled) nominators see faking a disability as taking on a challenging role. In the past three decades, one-third of Best Actor Oscars have gone to cripped up actors. In a film that centers the hearing perspective and consequently leans on some old-fashioned stereotypes, Kotsur provides humor, warmth, and authenticity. Because of him, the viewer can overlook CODAs imperfections to appreciate the deep wells of talent from which the entire cast draws. Its not Oscar baitbut it is Oscar worthy.
The Senate Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Bwacha, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mr Bwacha, who represents Taraba Central in the Senate, made known his move when he visited President Muhammadu Buhari at the Villa on Thursday.

The lawmaker was received by both the president and the Chairperson of the APC Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee(CECPC), Governor Mala Buni of Yobe State.

Presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, confirmed the lawmakers defection on his official Facebook page.

The Senate Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Emmanuel Bwacha, has dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the governing party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The president has welcomed him this afternoon in Abuja, he wrote.

Mr Bwacha joins the likes of senators Stella Oduah, Elisha Abbo, Peter Nwabaoshi, Muhammed Hasaan to have joined the APC.

Others who left the PDP for the ruling party are Sahabi Yau (Zamfara North) and Lawali Anka (Zamfara West).

Constitutional Provision

Section 68(1)g says that a member of Senate or House of Representatives shall vacate his seat in the House of which he is a member if being a person whose election to the House was sponsored by another political party. he becomes a member of another political party before the expiration of the period for which that House was elected.

Provided that his membership of the latter political party is not as a result of a division in the political party of which he was previously a member or of a merger of two or more political parties or factions by one of which he was previously sponsored.

This means that any lawmaker who defects to another political party when the party on whose platform he was elected is not undergoing any form of crisis or is not part of a merger with two or more political parties shall vacate his seat.

The Supreme Court had in series of decisions given effect to the constitutional provision by ordering the removal of lawmakers who defected to other parties in violation of the provision.

However, the presiding officers have never implemented the courts decisions.

At present, the PDP on whose platform Mr Bwacha was elected into the Senate is not divided and has not merged with another party.

With his defection to APC, the lawmaker will vacate his position as the deputy minority leader.

Precedence

In the 8th Senate, when Godswill Akpabio crossed from the PDP to the APC, he resigned his position as the Senate deputy minority leader. Mr Akpabio, who is currently the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, is also a former governor of Akwa Ibom State.

Similarly, when he left the PDP for the APC, Mr Yau vacated his position as the Senate Deputy Minority Whip even though he still remains a lawaker on the floor of the Senate.

While he ceases to be the deputy minority leader, it is not clear if Mr Bwacha will vacate his seat as a lawmaker.
President Joe Biden has decided to ban Russian oil imports, toughening the toll on Russia's economy in retaliation for its invasion of Ukraine. The United States generally imports about 100,000 barrels a day from Russia, only about 5% of Russia's crude oil exports, according to Rystad Energy. Last year, roughly 8% of U.S. imports of oil and petroleum products came from Russia. Gas prices have been rising for weeks due to the conflict and in anticipation of potential sanctions on the Russian energy sector. The U.S. national average for a gallon of gasoline soared 45 cents a gallon in the past week and topped $4.06 on Monday, according to auto club AAA. Should the US ban Russian oil imports over Ukraine war?

You voted:
Global food commodity prices rose again in January after a slight decline in December 2021, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has said.

The rise was led by vegetable oil and dairy, according to details highlighted in the FAO Food Price Index report released on Thursday.

The index tracks the international prices of the most commonly traded food commodities.

The FAO Food Price Index averaged 135.7 points in January 2022, 1.1 per cent higher than in December 2021.

The Food Price Index rebound in January was led by solid gains in vegetable oils and dairy sub-indices, partially offset by a decline in sugar prices for the second consecutive month.

Meat and cereal sub-indices remained largely unchanged, it said.

The report said the FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 185.9 points in January, up 4.2 per cent month-on-month, marking an all-time high.

The rise reflected higher quotations for palm, soy, rapeseed and sunflower seed oil. After a short-lived drop, international palm oil prices rebounded in January, largely underpinned by concerns over a possible reduction in export availabilities from Indonesia, the worlds top palm oil exporter, as well as subdued output in key producing countries.

World soyoil prices also recovered, supported by robust import purchases, particularly from India. In the meantime, rapeseed and sunflower seed oil prices were buoyed by, respectively, lingering supply tightness and surging global import demand.

Rising crude oil prices also lent support to international vegetable oil values, it said.

In the report the FAO Dairy Price Index averaged 132.1 points in January, up 2.4 per cent from December 2021, marking the fifth consecutive monthly increase, and placing the index 18.7 per cent above its value in the corresponding month last year.

In January, price quotations for dairy products rose, with the steepest increases in skim milk powder and butter.

It said the January increase was underpinned by a tightening in global markets, reflecting a reduction in export availability, especially from Western Europe, where a reported reduction in milk deliveries in some large milk-producing countries and lower stock levels supported prices.

Expectations for milk production in Oceania to remain below its average levels in the months ahead added to the tightening in global dairy markets.

In addition, it said milk processing and transportation delays due to COVID-19-related labour shortages further contributed to higher dairy prices.

Other indices rise

The report said the FAO Meat Price Index averaged 112.6 points in January, up slightly from December 2021, and lifting the index value 17.3 per cent above its corresponding month a year ago.

In January, bovine prices reached a new peak, underpinned by strong global import demand exceeding export supplies, mainly from Brazil and Oceania, reflecting lower cattle supplies for processing.

Meanwhile, pig meat quotations rose slightly, as labour shortages and high input costs dampened global supply, countering the downward pressure from Chinas slowdown in imports.

By contrast, the report said ovine and poultry meat prices softened further, as global exportable supplies outstripped import demand, despite constrained supplies stemming from COVID-19-related production and transportation delays, and avian flu outbreaks in some large poultry meat producing countries.

According to the report the FAO Cereal Price Index averaged 140.6 points in January, up marginally (0.1 per cent) from December and 12.5 per cent above its level one year ago.

World wheat prices eased in January, down 3.1 per cent, with increased seasonal supplies from large harvests in Australia and Argentina.

However, support from continued strong demand amidst tight global availability of higher-quality wheat along with uncertainty over exportable supplies prevented prices from declining further, the report said.

By contrast, it said maize export prices were firmer in January, gaining 3.8 per cent since December, mostly on concerns of persistent drought conditions in the southern hemisphere, namely Argentina and Brazil; spillover effects from the wheat market added upward pressure on maize prices.

READ ALSO:

Among other coarse grains, international sorghum prices also rose in January, in line with maize price trends, while barley quotations were slightly lower.

The completion of main-crop harvests in major suppliers and purchases by Asian buyers also raised international rice prices in January by 3.1 per cent, the report said.

It said the FAO Sugar Price Index averaged 112.8 points in January, down 3.1 per cent from December, marking the second consecutive monthly decline and the lowest level in the past six months.

The January decline in international sugar price quotations was mostly related to favourable production prospects and good harvest progress in major exporters, India and Thailand, and improved rains in key growing areas of Brazil.

In addition, lower ethanol prices in Brazil exerted further downward pressure on world sugar prices in January.

However, the strengthening of the Brazilian Real against the US Dollar, which tends to restrain shipments from Brazil, the worlds largest sugar exporter, prevented more substantial sugar price declines, it said.
Pune, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Copper Market Analysis and Insights: The global Copper market was valued at USD 230050 million in 2020 and it is expected to reach USD 325860 million by the end of 2027, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% during 2021-2027.

Global " Copper Market " Research Report provides vital evaluation accessible status of the Copper with finest statistical data points, qualified feelings, definition, meaning, SWOT examination, and the most recent developments worldwide. It also includes estimates based on an acceptable set of expectations and processes. The research takes into account the revenue generated by This Report's sales as well as improvements made by various application segments. The assessment report examines and provides information based on advertise segments such as geologies, applications, and industries.

Get a sample PDF of the report at https://www.industryresearch.biz/enquiry/request-sample/19795006

Scope of the Copper Market Report:

Copper is one of the oldest metals ever used and has been one of the important materials in the development of civilization. Because of its properties, singularly or in combination, of high ductility, malleability, and thermal and electrical conductivity, and its resistance to corrosion, copper has become a major industrial metal, ranking third after iron and aluminum in terms of quantities consumed.

Global Copper main players are Aurubis, Jiangxi Copper, Golden Dragon, Wieland, KME Group, Jintian Group, etc. Global top four manufacturers hold a share nearly 10%. Asia-Pacific is the largest market, with a share above 70%.



The report goes on to examine the market's development status and potential Copper Market design throughout the world. Similarly, it divides the Copper market by kind and by application in order to thoroughly and substantially explore and uncover market characteristics and prospects.

List of Key Players in Copper Market Report Are:

Aurubis

Jiangxi Copper

Golden Dragon

Wieland

KME Group

Jintian Group

IUSA

Mueller

Poongsan

TNMG

MKM

Mitsubishi Materials

Hailiang Group

Luvata

CHALCO

Jinchuan Group

Anhui Xinke

Marmon

Xingye Copper

KGHM

Furukawa Electric

Diehl Group

CNMC

HALCOR Group

Olin Brass

IBC Advanced Alloy

ChangChun Group

Mitsui Mining & Smelting

Dowa Metaltech

Nan Ya Plastics

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Type Coverage (Market Size and Forecast, Major Company of Product Type, etc.):

Rods & Wires

Plates & Strips

Tubes

Others

Application Coverage (Market Size and Forecast, Different Demand Market by Region, Main Consumer Profile):

Electrical

Transportation

Machinery and Metallurgy

Architecture and Art

Others

Enquire before purchasing this report - https://www.industryresearch.biz/enquiry/pre-order-enquiry/19795006

The analysis also focuses on the worldwide key top industry players in the Global Copper market, including details such as company biographies, product pictures and specifications, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue, and contact information. This study examines the Copper Market Trend, Volume, and Value at the Global, Regional, and Company Levels. This report summarizes the worldwide Copper Market Size by evaluating historical data and future prospects. Furthermore, expanding industrial and Copper is predicted to drive market expansion across a variety of industries globally.

Reasons to Purchase this Report:

To investigate the rising use of Worldwide Copper in Industry and its impact on the global market landscape.

Using Porter's five forces analysis, examine various market viewpoints.

to understand the market modality and application that are projected to dominate

To learn about the regions that are predicted to develop the quickest over the projection period,

Determine the most recent advancements, market shares, and tactics used by leading market participants.

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Major Highlights of TOC:

1 Copper Market Overview

2 Market Competition by Manufacturers

3 Production and Capacity by Region

4 Global Copper Consumption by Region

5 Production, Revenue, Price Trend by Type

6 Consumption Analysis by Application

7 Key Companies Profiled

8 Copper Manufacturing Cost Analysis

9 Marketing Channel, Distributors and Customers

10 Market Dynamics

11 Production and Supply Forecast

13 Forecast by Type and by Application (2022-2027)

14 Research Finding and Conclusion

Browse complete Table of Contents @ https://www.industryresearch.biz/TOC/19795006









Section II: Global Copper Products Market Analysis and Insights: The global Copper Products market was valued at USD 138060 million in 2020 and it is expected to reach USD 131670 million by the end of 2027, growing at a CAGR of -0.7% during 2021-2027.

The major players in global Copper Products market include Aurubis, Jiangxi Copper, Wireland, etc. The top 3 players occupy about 10% shares of the global market. China is the main market, and occupies about 50% of the global market. Copper Rods and Copper Wires are main types, with a share about 40%. Electronic Industry and Transportation Industry are the main application, which hold a share over 50%.

The evaluation report focuses on the Copper Products market, employing several approaches and assessments to provide positive and comprehensive information about the industry. The Copper Products Market provides a detailed analysis of the Copper Products industry's market size, share, growth, and prospects. This research contains all of the necessary information required to comprehend the critical advancements in the market expenditure in the Copper Products industry, as well as the development instances of each sector and area.

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COVID-19 sickness began to spread all over the world at the beginning of 2021, infecting countless individuals in general, and important governments all over the world imposed foot restrictions and work stoppage orders. Aside from the clinical supplies and life support items organizations, most endeavors have been significantly impacted, and Copper Products adventures have been severely impacted.

Type Coverage (Market Size and Forecast, Major Company of Product Type, etc.):

Copper Plates

Copper Strips

Copper Foils

Copper Tubes

Copper Rods

Copper Wires

Copper Profiles

Application Coverage (Market Size and Forecast, Different Demand Market by Region, Main Consumer Profile):

Electronic Industry

Transportation Industry

Machinery Industry

Architecture and Art

Other

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The report provides a comprehensive overview of the Industry's major components and factors such as drivers, constraints, historical and present trends, supervisory scenarios, and technological progress. Details include the firm description, key business, total revenue and sales for the company, revenue produced in the Copper Products business, the date to join the Copper Products market, Copper Products product launch, current advancements, and so on.

A detailed review of the report's restraints depicts the contrast to drivers and allows for strategic planning. Factors that overshadow market growth are critical, as they may be used to design diverse strategies for seizing the rich chances that exist in the ever-growing market. In addition, insights of market experts' viewpoints have been used to better comprehend the industry.

Global Copper Products Market Forecast provides key statistics on the state of the industry and is a valuable source of guidance, direction for businesses and people interested in the market.

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About Us:

Market is changing rapidly with the ongoing expansion of the industry. Advancement in technology has provided todays businesses with multifaceted advantages resulting in daily economic shifts. Thus, it is very important for a company to comprehend the patterns of market movements in order to strategize better. An efficient strategy offers the companies a head start in planning and an edge over the competitors. Industry Research is a credible source for gaining the market reports that will provide you with the lead your business needs.
Shell Plc, one of the worlds top liquefied natural gas (LNG) traders, is ready to deliver more natural gas to Europe in case the Russia-Ukraine crisis escalates to a conflict that could interrupt Russian gas supply to Europe.

So far Europe has never really suffered significant disruptions from Russia even in very troubled geopolitical times, Shells chief executive officer Ben van Beurden said on Thursday, as carried by Bloomberg.

However, if there are disruptions because of sanctions or otherwise of course we will step in to keep Europe supplied, van Beurden added.

One option of getting more gas supply to Europe could be to redirect LNG cargoes from Asia into Europe, Shells top executive said.

The United States and Europe are talking to major LNG importers in Asiaincluding Japan, South Korea, India, and even Chinato potentially send some of their gas supply to Europe in case the Russia-Ukraine crisis escalates into a conflict, Bloomberg reported earlier this week, citing sources with knowledge of the discussions.

The U.S. Administration is also in talks with energy companies and major gas-producing countries globally about the potential for a large supply of natural gas to Europe in case Russian deliveries are interrupted.

Major LNG exporter Australia said last week it was ready to ship LNG cargoes to Europe to support its friends and allies, while Qatar has signaled willingness to divert some cargoes if the European Union restricts the resale of gas cargoes outside the EU.

There is still spare capacity that can be used to receive additional gas supplies, in particular through LNG terminals, EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson said on Wednesday.

Thus, we think that the available gas stocks in the EU and our good network of LNG terminals will protect us against major security of supply problems, Simson added.

Yet, analysts say that there isnt enough LNG around the world to fully replace in a worst-case scenario the large amount of Russian gas, which accounts for over one-third of Europes gas supply.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Vedant Fashions Ltd, which owns ethnic wear brand Manyavar, on Thursday said it has garnered Rs 945 crore from anchor investors, ahead of its IPO roll-out on Friday.
Protesters demonstrating against COVID-19 mandates gather as a truck convoy blocks the highway at the U.S. border crossing in Coutts, Alta., Canada, on Feb. 2, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh)

Lanes Open in Both Directions at Alberta Border Protest

Protesters using their trucks and cars to block the main U.S. border crossing in Coutts, Alberta have made some room to allow traffic through.

One lane in each direction has been cleared as protesters moved their vehicles over to the right side of Highway 4 after an agreement for a partial pullback was reached on Feb. 2.

The vehicles had initially blocked the path since Jan. 29 in solidarity with the trucker convoy that had driven to Ottawa to protest COVID-19 mandates and restrictions. The protest in southern Alberta has now entered its sixth day.

Chad Williamson, a lawyer who represents the protesters, said the truckers finally feel like their message has been heard.

That doesnt mean the protest is over, but it signals what we hope to be ongoing cordial efforts to address the concerns of the people who have been involved in the movement down here in Coutts, said Williamson in an interview with The Canadian Press on Feb. 2.

Meanwhile, another blockade has been set up 18 kilometres to the north near Milk River. A long line of RCMP vehicles has blocked off the highway as hundreds of vehicles continued to gather on both sides of the highway with their horns blaring.

In its latest update, the RCMP said travel was still impeded in the area, though the reopening of Highway 4 from Milk River to the border has made progress. They said motorists situated at the northern part of the highway can expect the Mounties to escort them to the border.

We continue to work with the blockade participants to re-establish safe passage, the RCMP said on Twitter on Feb. 2.

Due to ongoing protest activity and congestion that could endanger the safety of the officers and the public, these escorts will continue until further notice. Travellers should still continue to avoid the area due to anticipated long delays.

Police were prepared to make arrests on Feb. 1 at the Coutts crossing but say they backed off due to safety concerns.

Police said some vehicles left peacefully but others, including tractors, sped through police roadblocks to join the blockade. Police also said two vehicles crashed head-on, resulting in an assault, but police reported no significant injuries.

On Feb. 1, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said he had been briefed that Mounties were being swarmed and assaulted and there had been an attempt to ram a police cruiser.

The RCMP has not confirmed Kenneys statement. The premiers office declined to say where or how it received the information.

The Canadian Press contributed to this report.
Trucks are parked near Parliament Hill in Ottawa as demonstrators continue to protest COVID-19 mandates and restrictions on Feb. 2, 2022. (Jonathan Ren/The Epoch Times)

Saskatchewan Parliamentarians Show Support for Protesting Truckers in Ottawa

A group of parliamentarians from Saskatchewan attended the Freedom Convoy protest in downtown Ottawa on Feb. 2 to show support for the truckers whove been protesting in the nations capital to demand the repeal of restrictive pandemic measures.

A few of our SK Caucus members went to show our appreciation for the hardworking, patriotic truckers who have kept our supply chains healthy & grocery shelves stocked for the past two years, MP Kevin Waugh of the Saskatoon-Grasswood riding wrote on Twitter.

Its great to see Canadians championing freedom on Parliament Hill.

Waugh attached two pictures to his post in which he is holding a Saskatchewan flag tied to a truck. In one of the pictures, he is accompanied by Sen. Denise Batters and MPs Warren Steinley, Andrew Scheer, Fraser Tolmie, and Rosemarie Falk.

A few of our SK Caucus members went to show our appreciation for the hardworking, patriotic truckers who have kept our supply chains healthy & grocery shelves stocked for the past two years. Its great to see Canadians championing freedom on Parliament Hill. #freedomconvoy22 pic.twitter.com/5sJwLJ8p9E  Kevin Waugh (@KevinWaugh_CPC) February 3, 2022

Saskatchewan has 14 seats in the House of Commons, all of which are held by Conservatives.

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson responded to Waugh in a tweet, saying praising the truckers was an absolute disgrace, citing the pressures caused by the protest on local residents.

The protest organizers issued a press release on Feb. 2 to address residents concerns, but they also said they would stay as long as it takes.

Our message to the citizens of Ottawa is one of empathy. We understand your frustration and genuinely wish there was another way for us to get our message across, but the responsibility for your inconvenience lies squarely on the shoulders of politicians who have [preferred] to vilify and call us names rather than engage in respectful, serious dialogue, said organizer Chris Barber.

The fastest way to get us out of the nations Capital, is to call your elected representatives and end all C-19 mandates, as the UK did two weeks ago and as both Sweden and Switzerland did today.

The protest, which started as a cross-country convoy before reaching the capital on Jan. 29, was triggered by a vaccine mandate introduced on Jan. 15 for truckers who cross the Canada-U.S. border. The protest has since attracted supporters in Canada and around the world who want to see an end to pandemic restrictions.

Ottawa Police reported three arrests in relation to the protest this week, without providing details on the exact circumstances. Police have also started to be more aggressive in enforcing city bylaws, announcing 30 tickets were issued on Feb. 2 for infractions including honking and transporting fuel cans insecurely.

After tens of thousands attended the protests over the last weekend, the numbers have dwindled during the weekdays but organizers expect numbers to swell again this coming weekend.

We are here and we are not going anywhere until we achieve our objective, to see an end of all C-19 mandates and with that a restoration of freedoms of all Canadians, said organizers in the statement.
China and Russia coordinated their positions on Ukraine during a meeting between both countries' foreign ministers in Beijing on Thursday, according to a statement by the Chinese foreign ministry.

The two sides coordinated their positions on regional issues of common concern, such as Ukraine, Afghanistan and the situation on the Korean Peninsula, the statement said.

China expressed understanding and support for Russia's position on security regarding Russia's relationship with the United States and with NATO.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is in Beijing with President Vladimir Putin, who will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday before attending the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics.

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Matthew Trefren and Ann Jones at the Shen Yun Performing Arts performance at Cheyenne Civic Center in Cheyenne, Wyo., on Feb. 1, 2022. (Nancy Ma/The Epoch Times)

CHEYENNE, Wyo.The brilliant dancing and music are not the only things that Shen Yun Performing Arts is known for. Audience members sometimes share that Shen Yun leaves them with indescribable happiness. The couple Matthew Trefren and Ann Jones shared their feelings about Shen Yun after attending the performance at the Cheyenne Civic Center.

Its amazing. Its off the charts. Its world-renowned and its amazing to experience this in such a small town here. Such a fabulous event. Its like youre on a different planet, you know, watching it. That performance is fabulous, Mr. Trefren shared.

Im not even touching the earth. What we just saw thereit puts me in a different spot in life. Great spot. Heavenly spot, he elaborated.

They shared that opinion that in order for the dancers of New York-based Shen Yun to be so synchronized and so light, there has to be something spiritual making it possible.

A lot of divine intervention comes into play for everybody to be in sync.  Matthew Trefren

You know, its hard to explain, but its something that you dont feel every day, thats for sure. Its got a lot to do with spirituality. Because its so put together, so many moving parts. And a lot of divine intervention comes into play for everybody to be in sync, Mr. Trefren said.

It was beautiful, the synchronicity. Truthfully, it is divinely inspired. People cant move in such harmony unless theyre flowing. It was beautiful. The music, the choreography, the message, the synchronicity, the costumes, the energy, the colors, the lights, it was fantastic. It was really pretty amazing. Really, Ms. Jones added.

As Shen Yun performs around the world, audiences members often share that they are filled with energy after experiencing the performance.

Im renewed. Its 10 oclock at night and I feel like a million bucks, Ms. Jones said.

The performance shares values of truth and compassion. Shen Yun dives into values that China had before communism including filial piety and loyalty.

When you see things like this, it brings peace to your life and makes you want to be a better person, kinder. And if you do wrong to someone, apologize to him and move on. [It] makes you a better person to see stuff like this. I could see this again and again, Mr. Trefren shared.

Ms. Jones added to this saying that Shen Yun gives people a sense of optimism and reminds everyone to have compassion.

She shared that Shen Yun gives one the message of hope in this terrible time when the world is so bleak and dark. We should have faith and we should have compassion and hold our focus on the higher dimensions, the higher realms and to be patient because Im sure that eventually, our Creator will return.

The couple wanted to share their gratitude to the artists of Shen Yun.

Thank you so much. So much appreciation for dedicating your life and how beautiful you are and how talented you are. And thank you for sharing your beautiful gifts with us and with the world and keep going, dont stop, Ms. Jones said.

From the orchestra to the people that put it together to the dancers to everyone. Its such an aura there that just is unbelievable. And there are saints among us, Mr. Trefren said.

Knowing that the pandemic has been keeping people away from live arts, Ms. Jones advises these people to Stop living in fear. Youve got to live.

You have to do what you think is right when it comes to this type of stuff. You recognize the hazard and you understand the defense when it comes to masks and then live your life. Dont live it in fear, Mr. Trefren added.

Reporting by Nancy Ma and Maria Han.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
Dismissed officer Sachin Waze on Thursday told an inquiry commission, probing corruption allegations against former Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh, that he wants to file an affidavit to retract certain deposition made during his cross-examination.

Waze, currently in judicial custody following his arrest in the Antilia bomb scare-Mansukh Hiran murder case, had recently deposed before the commission headed by Justice K U Chandiwal (retd).

The state government formed the commission last year to probe allegations of corruption levelled against Deshmukh, a senior NCP leader, by former commissioner Param Bir Singh. Waze's statement is part of a supplementary charge-sheet filed by the ED in a money laundering case against Deshmukh, which stems from the graft allegations, in a court here in December last year. Besides Deshmukh, his two sons as well as nine others, including companies, have been named in the charge-sheet. In a hand written plea moved through his legal team, Waze said he wants to file an application along with an affidavit to retract certain deposition made by him during his cross-examination at the panel. However, it was not clear which part of the deposition Waze wants to retract. The dismissed police officer, during his deposition before the Chandiwal panel, had denied making any payment to Deshmukh or any of his staff member. He had also denied collecting money from bars and restaurant owners in Mumbai. Earlier, in his statement before the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Waze had alleged Deshmukh asked him to collect money from bar and hotel owners. The former assistant police inspector had also claimed that Deshmukh, as home minister, used to give instructions in high-profile investigations. Waze had alleged that during a meeting held in October 2020 at Deshmukh's residence 'Dyneshwari', the NCP leader gave him a list of 1,750 bars and restaurants and asked him to collect Rs 3 lakh each from these establishments for granting various favours. However, before the commission, Waze had denied making any payment to Deshmukh or any of his staff member or receiving instructions from the former minister to collect money from pubs and restaurant owners in Mumbai. Deshmukh, who resigned from the state cabinet in April last year, has denied all allegations made by Waze. Incidentally, Waze's move came in the backdrop of Singh's claim that Deshmukh had asked Waze to retract his statements recorded earlier by the ED while deposing before the commission. Meanwhile, the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Thursday produced before the commission confidential documents pertaining to its probe into the Antilia bomb scare-Mansukh Hiran murder case. The inquiry panel, in a previous hearing, had asked the ATS to submit papers related to the case, which is now being handled by the NIA. Waze was arrested in March 2021 following the recovery of an SUV with explosives parked near industrialist Mukesh Ambani's south Mumbai residence 'Antilia' and the subsequent death of Thane-based businessman Mansukh Hiran, who was the owner of the vehicle. He was later dismissed from police service. Singh, now suspended, was transferred from the post of commissioner after the twin incidents.

(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.)
New Delhi:

A day after a protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act turned violent in the Delhi Seelampur area, section 144 has been imposed in the Northeast district, prohibiting the assembly of more than four people in the area. "Section-144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) has been imposed in Northeast District," Delhi Joint Commissioner of Police was quoted as saying by ANI.

The Delhi Police is also patrolling in the Seelampur area, which had witnessed violent protests and stone-pelting on Tuesday.

Delhi Joint Commissioner of Police: Section-144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) has been imposed in North East District. #CitizenshipAmendmentAct pic.twitter.com/ACcxvEDY0t  ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2019

Meanwhile, the Delhi Police has registered three FIRs in connection with the Tuesday violence. Two FIRs have been filed in connection with the violence on Jafrabad road. Both these FIRs have been filed under sections of rioting and vandalization of the Indian penal Code. Five people have been arrested after the violence. The police have yet not revealed whether these individuals have any criminal background or not. Third FIR is in connection with the violence in Brijpuri area of Seelampur, which saw late night protests.

On Tuesday, angry protesters demanding scrapping of the amended Citizenship Act pelted stones at police personnel, torched several motor bikes and vandalised two police booths as well as three buses in Seelampur, leaving 21 people injured in fresh violence in the city.

The national capital continued to reel under swirling agitation against the alleged "divisive" law with thousands of students hitting streets near the Jamia Millia Islamia, where a violent protest had occurred on Sunday, and elsewhere for what they called "protecting the soul of India".

Twenty-one people, including 12 policemen and six civilians, were injured in the clashes in Seelampur which continued for one-and-half hours, while five persons have been detained, according to police. Police said they used tear gas shells to disperse the mob but denied that there was any baton charge on protesters.

Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik briefed Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and other senior officials of the ministry on the violence at Jamia Milia University and Seelampur during anti-CAA protests and the prevailing situation in the national capital, officials said.
D.J. Ferguson (right) is seen in this picture together with his family. (Courtesy of GoFundMe)

Patient Who Was Denied Organ Transplant Over Refusing COVID-19 Vaccine Underwent Surgery

A Massachusetts father of two who was removed from a heart transplant waiting list because he refused to get a COVID-19 vaccine has undergone open-heart surgery, his family said last week.

David Ferguson, the father of the 31-year-old patient D.J. Ferguson, told Fox News the surgery was a last resort option as doctors tried to find temporary solutions to stabilize him after staff at the Boston hospital said he was ineligible for the transplant due to being unvaccinated.

He got led down a path where they had to stop doing procedures, where they said he was qualified nonetheless for the heart transplant. But he had to get the vaccine in order to get that transplant, the patients father told the network.

Hes deteriorated so much so quickly that they had to resort to open-heart surgery and doing the LVAD [left ventricular assist device] mechanical pump, he said. So now my boy has a pump, hes in recovery. He went through seven hours of surgery.

Ferguson was admitted to the hospital in November after suffering from a hereditary heart condition and his heart and lungs were filled with blood and fluid.

This Nov. 27, 2021 photograph provided by Tracey Ferguson shows her son D.J. Ferguson initially being treated at a central Massachusetts hospital. (Tracey Ferguson photo via AP)

The hospitalBrigham & Womens Hospitalsaid that the COVID-19 vaccines are required, defending itself by saying transplant programs have certain requirements that patients need to follow.

Our Mass General Brigham healthcare system requires several CDC-recommended vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine, the hospital said in a statement sent to The Epoch Times.

Fergusons mother, Tracey, said her son has nothing against COVID-19 vaccines, noting that hes had other immunizations in the past. In an appeal for funds, the patients family said Ferguson has had a short history of atrial fibrillation, often called AFiban irregular and often rapid heart rhythmwhich could put him at high risk for adverse reaction and even death after taking the shot.

He wants to be assured by his doctors that his condition would not be worse or fatal with this COVID-19 vaccine, his mother said.

Tracey Ferguson, mother of D.J. Ferguson, speaks during an interview at her home, in Mendon, Mass., on Jan. 26, 2022. (Steven Senne/AP Photo)

A relative of Ferguson wrote on the patients GoFundMe fundraising page, which has garnered nearly $90,000, that they have had many conversations with doctors who also confirmed that there is a chance his heart may swell and go into a severe crisis. However, getting the COVID-19 vaccine is a choice that the Ferguson family will have to make if he wants to be listed for a transplant.

Were being pressured to choose a shot that could kill him. This is not just a political issue. People need to have a choice! his family said.

Dr. Peter McCullough, a renowned cardiologist and epidemiologist, called the hospitals organ transplant denial unethical, immoral.

Denying a patient an organ transplantation on the basis of an investigational, ineffective, and categorically unsafe vaccine is itself unethical, immoral. And from a clinical and civil perspective, its illegal, McCullough told NTD News, a sister media of The Epoch Times.

These vaccines cause heart damage. Its called myocarditis. Under no circumstances would a good doctor ever expose a patient with heart failure whos awaiting a transplant. Under no circumstances would a doctor expose that patient to one of these vaccines, he said.

Dr. Peter McCullough in an interview with NTDs Capitol Reports program during Defeat The Mandate rally in Washington D.C., on Jan. 23, 2022. (Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

The hospital previously said research has shown that transplant recipients are at higher risk than non-transplant patients of dying from COVID-19, and that its policies are in line with the recommendations of the American Society of Transplantation and other health organizations.

There are currently more than 100,000 candidates on waitlists for organ transplantation and a shortage of available organsaround half of people on waiting lists will not receive an organ within five years, the hospital said.

Dr. Arthur Caplan, the head of Medical Ethics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, told CBS Boston that organs are scarce and being vaccinated is necessary for this type of procedure.

We are not going to distribute them to someone who has a poor chance of living when others who are vaccinated have a better chance post-surgery of surviving, Caplan told the network.

Post any transplant, kidney, heart, whateveryour immune system is shut off, he added. The flu could kill you, a cold could kill you, COVID-19 could kill you.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

From NTD News
Brett Ashley Kaplan is director of graduate studies, director of the Initiative in Holocaust, Genocide and Memory Studies and a professor of comparative literature at the University of Illinois.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Terming it "excellent news", Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded the fact that India has established the largest network of Ramsar Sites in South Asia.

"Excellent News! India having the largest network of Ramsar Sites in South Asia manifests the commitment of our citizens to protect flora and fauna and live in harmony with nature," the Prime Minister tweeted late Thursday evening.

His appreciation came for the latest addition of two wetlands as 'Ramsar Sites' as announced on Wednesday at the World Wetlands Day event. The two are Khijadiya Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat and Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh.

With these two, the total number of Ramsar Sites in India now stand at 49 and with all together, they cover 10,93,636 Ha, the highest in South Asia.

World Wetlands Day is celebrated on February 2 to mark the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on the same day in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar.

Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav, promptly thanked and replied to the Prime Minister's tweet: "India under your leadership and special focus on preserving the ecology has presented a model worth emulating for the world." Between 2006-07 and 2017-18, there has been an addition of 14,823 new wetlands with an area of 0.36 Mha while a total of 1,342 wetlands covering an area of 0.025 Mha have disappeared, according to an updated Wetlands Atlas launched on Wednesday.

In absolute numbers, there has been a total increase of 0.64 million hectares (Mha) area and 18,810 wetland numbers. The increase in wetland area includes both new (56.4 per cent) as well as positive change in the existing wetlands 43.6 per cent. Among the wetlands that disappeared in the 2017-18 document, are mostly waterlogged regions (natural and man-made), tanks in abandoned mining and aquaculture ponds.

These are the findings of the 'National Wetland Decadal Change Atlas' that was released on the occasion of World Wetlands Day 2022 on Wednesday and documents wetlands across India especially with respect to the changes from 2006-07 till 2017-18.
Former Sen. Doug Jones, the Alabama Democrat who CNN reported would serve as the nominee's "Sherpa" -- a key role in shepherding the nominee through the Senate process.
On Wednesday, Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro announced measures to facilitate the granting of productive credits, among which is the allocation of USS10 million for the creation of the National Entrepreneurship Fund (FNE).

"In order to expand the granting of credits, the banking reserve will drop from 85 percent to 73 percent and banks will be able to use 10 percent of their foreign reserves to give credits," Maduro said during a meeting with bankers.

To boost the digital economy, the Bolivarian administration simplified the requirements to open bank accounts, allowing Venezuelans to open an account with about US$221 in any national financial institution. Vice President Delcy Rodriguez announced the creation of a security that will allow entrepreneurs to go to brokerage houses and obtain financing for 30, 60, 90, or 360 days.

"We are democratizing credit and expanding credit and banking activity," she said, explaining that the new policies will allow a large part of the Venezuelan population to access financial systems for the first time.

According to reports, US Homeland Security said it would expel Venezuelans to Colombia on a regular basis but limited to those who had previously resided in Colombia.



US sanctions are considered one of the major forces driving migration.



Read more: https://t.co/nGoRlw9Thp pic.twitter.com/cXoc17M9iA  venezuelanalysis.com (@venanalysis) February 3, 2022

The Bolivarian government will permanently monitor the new monetary policies to ensure that they have a positive impact on the access of all producers to timely credit.

"I am determined to recover Venezuelas industrial apparatus... In 2022, we will consolidate economic growth," Maduro said, explaining that the reactivation of productive activities will improve the income of workers and their families.

The Venezuelan president assured that these policy objectives will be achieved despite the fact that the U.S. continues to harass his country with an arbitrary and criminal blockade.
Amid escalating tension between Russia and Western powers over Ukraine, India on Thursday called for resolution of the situation peacefully through constructive political efforts.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, at a media briefing, referred to India's statement at a meeting of the UN Security Council on the matter three days ago.

"There was a meeting on the issue at the UN Security Council on January 31. We issued a statement at the meeting reflecting our viewpoint. I do not have anything more on this at this point," he said, replying to a question.

"I want to remind you that we have called for constructive political efforts to address the concerns of all sides and resolve the situation peacefully," he said.

Asked whether the US was looking at procuring liquefied natural gas (LNG) from India for supplies to Europe if Russia invades Ukraine, Bagchi said he was not aware of such requests.

The US and its Western allies have been severely critical of Russia over its continuing build-up of forces near the Ukraine border.

The US has already decided to send extra troops to Europe to support its allies in the backdrop of fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

To a separate question on whether an agreement between India and Nepal was being finalised on the sale and purchase of fertilisers, Bagchi said it has been agreed upon by both sides.

"But I need to check on the next steps involved," he said.

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Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum says property worth over $6.9 billion has been lost in the last 13 years to the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-east region of Nigeria.

Mr Zulum said this in Abuja on Thursday when he appeared at the weekly briefing of the Presidential Communications Team.

The governor said the insurgency has aggravated poverty and other challenges in the region.

The insurgency has triggered acute humanitarian and post-displacement crises with devastating social and economic impact on the population, further deepening fragility and poverty in the North-East region, Mr Zulum said.

The outcome of the recovery peace building assessment by the World Bank, EU and UN revealed that a total sum of about $6.9 billion was lost as a result of the insurgency in the entire Northeastern states. Out of this, Borno State accounts for over two-thirds.

The insurgents have destroyed about 5000 classrooms in Borno State and about 800 municipal buildings, including local government secretariats, prisons, and traditional rulers buildings among others. Furthermore, they destroyed about 713 energy distribution lines and 1600 water sources.

In addition to that, we harvested about 49, 311 widows and about 49, 917 orphans. These are official figures, the governor said.

However, Mr Zulum said peace is gradually returning to Borno as a result of the commitment and support of the federal government.

One major reason why we have been succeeding in the North-East, particularly Borno State, is because there was never a time I requested to see the President and was denied access. This is something very important. Whenever I had serious security issues in Borno State, as soon as I landed in Abuja, within the next 10-15 minutes on arrival, I would be granted access to the President and this has contributed a lot in ensuring the gradual return of peace and stability to Borno State, he said.

The governor said a lot of resources have been ploughed into the processes of restoring peace in the state.

A significant amount of resources has been injected into the implementation of the security strategies  financial, material, logistics and motivational, he said.

Mr Zulum said his government has done much in relocating displaced persons, as a result of which farming activities are picking up.

He thanked the federal government and the security agencies for their roles in the peace process, adding that citizens in the state are also contributing to the restoration of peace by volunteering intelligence on the insurgency.

Honestly speaking, the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the police, the DSS (SSS) and others are giving the desired collaboration to the government of Borno State.

The first effort we made towards securing Borno State was through intelligence sharing, which is very important. We consider the communities participation as very important and the community-driven approach to re-establishing peace in Borno State has yielded positive results. We have our local intelligence, who normally provide a feedback mechanism to the government and the military with a view to addressing the lingering insecurity in Borno State, he said.

On the closure of some displaced persons camps in the state, Mr Zulum said some cases of vices and criminal activities led to that decision.

The governor said 18 displaced communities have since been resettled, and thanked the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigeria Customs Service, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the North-East Development Commission for their services in the state.
With only three days to constitutionally allowed deadline, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has eventually notified INEC of its intention to hold its national convention.

In accordance with Section 85 (1) of the Electoral Act (2010) as amended, all political parties in the country are mandated to give the commission at least 21 days notice before holding a convention.

After much reluctance, given the backdrop of crises ravaging its state chapters, a letter surfaced on Thursday indicating that the ruling party has informed the electoral body of the coming convention.

In the letter dated February 2, 2022, the APC officially informed the INEC about its decision to conduct its February 26 National Convention.

This is to inform the Commission that our great Party has scheduled to hold its National Convention on Saturday, 26th February, 2022.

This serves as a formal notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 85 of the Electoral Act (2010) as amended.

Kindly arrange for your officials to monitor the exercise accordingly, the party said in the notice jointly signed by the interim National Chairman of the party and Secretary, Mala Buni and John Akpanuodehe.

The partys eventual move is in defiance of some of its party members and group, calling for an extension of the event, due to some unresolved underlying issues.

The Coalition of APC Women Groups, at a press conference on Wednesday, called on President Muhammadu Buhari to postpone the convention indefinitely.

They argued that holding the convention as slated will be like building a superstructure on unstable soil.

Your Excellency, currently the party has a faction in 14 states, which is because the Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) under His Excellency, Mai Malam Buni has done a good job in reconciling factions in other states and reorganisation the party.

The party is yet to recover from the attendant losses from elections that were ordinarily guaranteed in Rivers and Zamfara States during the 2019 General Elections.

Instead of learning the hard lessons contained in those avoidable experiences, the State Governors and the colluding party leaders are rather adamant on repeating the show of shame on a national scale by fixing a date for the National Convention without first resolving the damaging issues on ground, the coalition led by Cecilia Ikechukwu, said.

With reference to the party losses in Rivers and Zamfara States, the coalition hinted of possible legal battles if the convention should hold as planned.

It also called for the dissolution of the Abdullahi Adamu-led National Reconciliatory Committee and the setting up a new committee as the former serially failed in its mandate.

That Mr. President unites the APC stakeholders and lead them to counter the influence the cabals that want to destroy the party from within at all costs.

It is our firm belief that these steps, if urgently taken, can pull the APC from the brink, although the window for saving the party is fast closing. Please Mr. President, save the APC from implosion, the statement stated.

Also, the Deputy Senate Whip and former Abia State governor, Orji Kalu, last week, canvassed the postponement of the convention.
New Delhi:

Notwithstanding Opposition to the amended Citizenship Act, Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday asserted the Modi government will ensure that non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan get Indian nationality and live in the country with honour. Shah also challenged the people, who are against the new law, to oppose the legislation as much as they can.

"Come what may, the Modi government will ensure that these refugees get Indian citizenship and live as Indians with honour," he said at an event in New Delhi.

Shah asserted there was no question of going back on its implementation and accused the opposition of engaging in a "false" campaign over the legislation. Shah accused the opposition of running a "false" campaign and creating a rift between Hindus and Muslims over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).

He dared Congress president Sonia Gandhi and leaders of other opposition parties to issue a statement saying they want all the Muslims from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh be given Indian citizenship. Speaking at a poll rally in Jharkhand on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi threw a similar challenge at the "Congress and its friends".

Shah said there was nothing against minorities in the CAA, which was passed by Parliament last week and has received Presidential assent, and added it does not snatch away citizenship of anyone. Seeking to turn the tables on the Congress for questioning the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC), Shah said the provision was ushered in by the national party as a consequence of the Assam Accord signed by the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1985. He said the Congress had laid the foundation of the CAA, too.

Shah's remark come on a day when opposition leaders knocked on the doors of President Ram Nath Kovind, seeking his intervention in repealing the "unconstitutional and divisive" citizenship amendment law and forming a commission of inquiry to probe violent protests and the subsequent police action.

(With PTI inputs)

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New Delhi:

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday agreed to hear petitions seeking setting up of a fact- finding committee to look into the recent violence at Jamia Milia Islamia University. The petition was mentioned before a bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Rekha Palli by advocate Rizwan and the court allowed it to be listed on Thursday. The plea sought proper medical treatment and compensation for the injured students.

The plea before the High Court came after the Supreme Court on Tuesday said High Courts should be approached first on pleas alleging police atrocities on persons protesting against the amended Citizenship Act.

In a sharp observation on the Jamia crackdown in Delhi, the Supreme Court said, we are not against peaceful demonstrations, but we can't allow people to go on streets, indulge in rioting. Taking note of the violence, Chief Justice of India SA Bobde said that, we are not to be bullied like this.

The situation remained tense in the university premises on Tuesday as protesters, including students and local residents, converged outside the varsity holding tricolour and placards to continue their demonstration against CAA and NRC.

Braving freezing cold, they took out small marches outside the varsity, shouting slogans against the government. This is the second consecutive day of peaceful protests after the demonstration on Sunday turned violent.

The Delhi Police has arrested 10 people in connection with the Sunday violence in vicinity of Jamia Millia Islamia university on Tuesday. The clashes sparked massive protests across campuses in India with students demanding rollback of the Citizenship Amendment Act and probe into police brutality. The Delhi Police said that the 10 people, who have been arrested, have criminal background.

News Nation has learnt that out of these 10 individuals, three are known as bad characters in the area. The police has also distinctively said that no student of the Jamia Millia Islamia university has been arrested. The cops said that the arrests were made after probing the CCTV footages of December 15. The cops further said that more arrests are likely to be made in coming days.

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Gandhinagar, Feb 3 : The Gujarat government on Thursday extend the night curfew effective across 27 cities till 11 February.

A core committee meeting headed by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also decided on Thursday to allow more persons in wedding functions organised in open places.

Looking at the prevailing Covid situation in the state, the meeting decided to continue the presently effective night curfew in 8 municipal corporations and 19 municipalities. The curfew will be in place from 10 pm to 6 am.

The committee also decided to grant some relaxation for wedding functions with the ceiling on gatherings at 150 in closed places, and 300 for open spaces.
A new bill is seeking to change the term "child pornography" in Irish legislation to "child exploitation material".

Senator Eileen Flynn, a member of the civil engagement group in the Seanad, says she hopes the government will support the change.

"The purpose of the bill is to change the name from child pornography to Child Exploitation material, and basically the reason is it doesn't sound right, the term: child pornography.

"What we are looking to do is change the language in Irish legislation.

"We believe language defines our understanding, we believe that spreads to the community and again as a Traveller woman, I know that language can create so much inequality and racism.

Language is important and in Ireland, we tend to cover up a lot of stuff and we're just not honest about what's going on, and child pornography is abuse, it's exploitation and we need to name it for what it is.

If this bill is successful, it will also change the name in previous acts replacing the phrase with "child exploitation material".

"I think it's a great step forward in the right direction for children and survivors of child abuse, as well because child pornography doesn't sound right and I do believe it's the right thing to do.

Ms Flynn said that "you can never be 100% sure" on government support but she hopes the bill would be supported. "In the civil engagement group, we always tend to do the right thing and stand up for the right thing.

"So let's hope that the government will just do the right thing today and the most important thing is if this was successful today, it's really about pushing it and getting someone to push it through the Dail in the next coming weeks, not to let it go into next year or the year after. It's about pushing it through as soon as possible."
Dr. Califf has been making the rounds of the Senate, meeting with an estimated 45 members, among the most scheduled for any Biden nominee. Aides privately indicated that they believed they could rally the necessary support for his appointment. This week, Mr. Burr predicted: I think Dr. Califf will be the next F.D.A. commissioner.

How Times reporters cover politics. We rely on our journalists to be independent observers. So while Times staff members may vote, they are not allowed to endorse or campaign for candidates or political causes. This includes participating in marches or rallies in support of a movement or giving money to, or raising money for, any political candidate or election cause. Learn more about our process.

Despite concerns from Mr. Manchin and other Democrats, Dr. Califf was named for the position in November. Mr. Manchin, whose state has been devastated by the opioid epidemic, has outlined numerous changes he would like to see at the F.D.A., including mandatory education for opioid prescribers similar to the education required of those prescribing addiction medication.

The senators concerns about the crisis have hampered negotiations over Mr. Bidens marquee $2.2 trillion domestic policy bill, as Mr. Manchin rejected plans to extend the child tax credit over concerns that those monthly payments to families with children were being used to purchase opioids.

I strongly opposed his nomination, which is an insult to those who have been impacted by the drug epidemic, Mr. Manchin said on Twitter on the day of the panels vote, adding: Its time the F.D.A. had leadership willing to step forward to protect Americans from the drug epidemic that continues to ravage our nation. Dr. Califf is not that leader.

Several senators, pressed this week on their support for Dr. Califf, said they had not yet made a decision.

Senator Shelley Moore Capito, Republican of West Virginia, said she was still undecided: I know theres some issues that have come up, but he has been to West Virginia  he has seen firsthand some of the issues that we have. Thats important to me.
PORTLAND, Ore., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OnPoint Community Credit Union announced today it has hired Northwest marketing executive Tim Clevenger to serve as its Senior Vice President (SVP)/Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), a newly created position on its Executive Team. OnPoint introduced the new role to deepen its connection with its members, employees and communities on the heels of its largest branch expansion in the credit union's history, and a new brand refresh, which reimagined the look and feel of its logo, website and printed materials.

A proven leader, Clevenger directed brand and marketing strategies and teams at some of the region's most preeminent institutions, including the University of Oregon and Cambia Health Solutions. As SVP/CMO, Clevenger will oversee OnPoint's award-winning marketing, brand and integrated communications teams, and lead strategies that drive OnPoint's brand awareness and loyalty across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

"Growing up in central Oregon and building his career in the Northwest, Tim shares our passion for improving the lives of our neighbors while supporting local businesses," said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. "We are grateful to have Tim on board as we continue to grow our membership and help more people achieve their financial goals."

Clevenger has more than 20 years of experience leading brand and marketing teams across industries, including higher education and healthcare. He comes to OnPoint from Cambia Health Solutions, where he served as Vice President of Marketing. Clevenger also served as a marketing leader at his alma mater, the University of Oregon, as well as the Pape Group and two Northwest advertising agencies.

"OnPoint has deep roots in the Pacific Northwest, serving as a trusted financial partner to its members since 1932," said Clevenger. "Like OnPoint, I am dedicated to investing in education and helping people in our region live their best lives. I look forward to working with the team to use the tools I lovemarketing, branding, PR and strategic communicationsto advance OnPoint's purpose of building strong communities."

Clevenger has a strong passion for giving back to his community, serving as a Board Member of LifeWorks NW, volunteering at the Portland Rescue Mission and helping refugees through the Refugee Care Collective. He lives in southeast Portland with his wife and is an avid reader and runner.

The OnPoint Executive Team is comprised of the following members:

Rob Stuart , President/Chief Executive Officer

, President/Chief Executive Officer Jim Armstrong , Senior Vice President/Chief Information Officer

Senior Vice President/Chief Information Officer Tim Clevenger , Senior Vice President/Chief Marketing Officer

Senior Vice President/Chief Marketing Officer Jackie Dunckley , Senior Vice President/Chief Talent Officer

Senior Vice President/Chief Talent Officer Veronica Ervin , Senior Vice President/Chief Risk Officer

Senior Vice President/Chief Risk Officer Jim Hunt , Senior Vice President/Chief Financial Officer

Senior Vice President/Chief Financial Officer Steve Leugers , Senior Vice President/Chief Credit Officer

, Senior Vice President/Chief Credit Officer Tory McVay , Senior Vice President/Chief Retail Officer

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 465,000 members and with assets of $9.0 billion. OnPoint membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 800-527-3932.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/onpoint-announces-tim-clevenger-as-chief-marketing-officer-a-new-role-for-oregons-largest-credit-union-301475100.html

SOURCE OnPoint Community Credit Union
U.S. Special Forces have killed ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Qurayshi in a counterterrorism mission in North-west Syria Wednesday evening, CNN has reported.

This was announced Thursday morning by United States President, Joe Biden.

According to CNN, It was the biggest U.S. raid in the country since the 2019 operation that killed ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

At least 13 people were killed in clashes that took place during and after the raid including six children and four women according to Syrian civil defense group, the White Helmets.

There were no U.S. casualties, according to the Pentagon.

Last night at my direction, U.S. military forces in northwest Syria successfully undertook a counterterrorism operation to protect the American people and our Allies, and make the world a safer place, Mr Biden said in a statement.

READ ALSO:

Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Qurayshi, the leader of ISIS. All Americans have returned safely from the operation.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said in a statement late Wednesday night that the mission was conducted by U.S. Central Command, which controls military operations and activities in the Middle East.

ISIS named al-Qurashi as its new leader in November 2019 at the same time that the terror group confirmed al-Baghdadi had been killed.
A Palestinian girl brushes her hair inside her house in Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza City, on Feb. 1, 2022.(Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)



As many as 1.5 million low-income Palestinian families are struggling to live in Gaza Strip, amid the Israeli blockade imposed on the territory since 2007.



by Sanaa Kamal

GAZA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Jihan al-Adgham, a Palestinian woman from the besieged coastal enclave, spends most of her time placing pots under the holes in the roof of her house to protect her children from getting wet from rainwater in the cold winter nights.

The 46-year-old mother of seven lives in a 60-square-meter dilapidated house with cracked walls in Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza City, where the houses are close to each other and the streets are narrow.

Al-Adgham and her family have been suffering from extreme poverty for many years.

A Palestinian woman cooks inside her house in Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza City, on Feb. 1, 2022. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)



"In such weather, because of the extreme poverty imposed on us, I can barely feed my children once a day," the mother said while crying.

Their family was not such tragic when her husband worked years ago as a fisherman in the sea, as he earned about 70 U.S. dollars a day, she recalled.

Ayman al-Adgham, Jihan's husband, told Xinhua that his situation was turned upside down due to the deteriorating economic conditions in the strip, as he now earns about 70 dollars per month, which is not enough to keep his family afloat.

Al-Adgham family relies on food aid provided by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Refugees (UNRWA). Also, the father resorts to buying leftover vegetables sold in local markets.

Palestinian workers carry sacks of flour at a UN food distribution center in Al-Shati refugee camp in Gaza City, Jan. 15, 2018. (Xinhua/Wissam Nassar)

"The hardest feeling I face daily is when my children demand their daily allowance from me, and I cannot provide it for them," the 48-year-old man said.

The situation is not much different for the family of Hamad al-Swirki, who lives in the village of al-Nasr in the northern Gaza Strip, in a Zingo house established on government land amid a constant threat of eviction.

The 46-year-old amputee man told Xinhua that the suffering of his 10-member family began after he was exposed to an Israeli bombardment, which made him lose his feet and could not work any more.

"In the past, I worked as a farmer in Israeli cities, and I used to make a lot of money, but because of the conflict between the Israeli army and the Palestinian factions, I turned to be destitute," the father of nine said.

"We don't have a home that protects us from climate changes, and we don't have money to provide food for my family," the man complained.

Zuhour al-Swirki, Hamad's daughter, told Xinhua that she wishes to live like her schoolmates in better conditions.

Children are seen playing outside their houses in the village of al-Nasr in the northern Gaza Strip, on Feb. 1, 2022. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)



Both al-Adgham and al-Swirki are among 1,500,000 low-income families living in the Strip, according to a report issued by Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights recently, as a result of the Israeli blockade imposed on the territory.

Titled by "Bitter 16: A Generation Bred in Captivity," the report said that the humanitarian crises in Gaza have doubled amid the blockade. In 2005, before the Israeli siege, the unemployment rate was about 23.6 percent, while at the end of 2021, it reached 50.2 percent to be among the highest unemployment rates in the world.

As a result, the report indicated that "poverty rates had witnessed a sharp rise due to Israeli restrictions, jumping from 40 percent in 2005 to 69 percent in 2021."

Since 2007, the Strip has been put under a tight Israeli blockade after the Islamic Hamas movement forcibly seized the area. 
SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Golden Gate University School of Law and the Algorand Foundation have created the Blockchain Law for Social Good Center , the first of its kind in an American law school.

Through the three pillars of education, community, and research & policy, the center's mission is to offer the first cohesive approach to training lawyers, lawmakers, and other members of our communities about the numerous socially beneficial use cases of blockchain technology. The center is funded with a $300,000 foundational grant from the Algorand Foundation.

Hugo Krawczyk, Principal Researcher and Head of the Algorand Centres of Excellence Programme , is excited about the partnership with Golden Gate University School of Law. "The Blockchain Law for Social Good Center is an excellent example of the multidisciplinary application possibilities for blockchain technology while also promoting social-impact projects. The project will become a hub for blockchain law and a valuable resource not only for lawmakers and lawyers, but also for government agencies and start-ups."

"Blockchain developers are quietly creating revolutionary projects that remedy existing inequalities, particularly related to financial inclusion," says Professor Michele Neitz, who will serve as the Faculty Director for the center. "However, until lawmakers have a more comprehensive view of blockchain and crypto, the industry will suffer from regulatory skepticism."

Drawing on Professor Neitz's experience as a member of the California Blockchain Working Group, and as the first (and so far, only) law professor to teach Blockchain Law in San Francisco, the center will include opportunities for lawmakers and members of the public to engage on these issues with national conferences, an Algorand Foundation Speaker's Series, and a unique Blockchain Law course curriculum. The Blockchain Law for Social Good Center will push the industry forward, promoting a more balanced regulatory scheme as well as a more diverse environment for blockchain technology in the United States.

California State Controller Betty T. Yee expressed her hopes for the potential of the new center, saying, "As a GGU alumna, I am excited about the establishment of the Blockchain Law for Social Good Center. I look forward to working with the center's team to ensure equity and inclusion and achieve the broadest public benefit as this nascent industry and the application of its technology become more widespread."

The Algorand Foundation is committed to building inclusive and transparent technology to create a borderless economy, and GGU Law is a natural host for this project. As Dean Colin Crawford explains, "GGU Law has a 120-year history of offering legal education to historically underrepresented populations. This new center directly aligns with our legacy, and we are thrilled to be able to host it on our campus in downtown San Francisco."

Located in San Francisco, Golden Gate University School of Law provides students with a solid foundation in legal theory and the skills necessary to be a successful practitioner. GGU students reflect a wide variety of ages, work experience, and cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. Students include working professionals and recent college graduates from more than 100 undergraduate and graduate institutions.

Website: https://blockchainlawsg.org/

Twitter: @BchainLaw4SG, @profmneitz, @GGU, @GGULaw

Instagram: @BchainLaw4SG

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-law-for-social-good-center

www.linkedin.com/in/michele-neitz ,

Contact:

Michael Bazeley

[email protected]

415-442-7853

SOURCE Golden Gate University
Billionaire philanthropist Mackenzie Scott has donated $2.5 million to Communities in Schools of South Carolina, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting students through social and emotional programs.

The donation is part of $133.5 million that Scott is donating to the nonprofit's national office. Scott chose 40 out of the 110 Communities in Schools affiliates to receive individual donations.

Last year, Communities in Schools merged its three chapters in North Charleston, Greenville and Columbia into one centralized office on Turnbull Avenue in North Charleston, allowing it to reach more students with its programs. Scott's donation, which is the largest the South Carolina chapter has ever received, will support the nonprofit's efforts to further expand its services and influence throughout the state, CEO and President Jamie Cooper said.

"We took a big risk merging the three affiliates into one and to have something like this pop up on our radar and have someone identify South Carolina as a part of their philanthropic portfolio really affirms the work that we're doing," Cooper said.

More Coverage To read more in-depth stories from The Post and Courier's Education Lab, go to postandcourier.com/education-lab.

The nonprofit supports students by placing trained adults called site coordinators into schools. The site coordinators guide students to graduation by connecting them to noneducation-related community services such as food, housing and health care.

The South Carolina chapter operates in 34 schools, serving around 20,000 students. In 2020-21, 99.7 percent of the students enrolled in the nonprofit's programs remained in school and 97 percent of seniors graduated or earned their GED.

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Cooper said the donation will be used to help the organization strengthen its existing programs, deepen its impact in communities and grow into more rural areas. That means investing in the nonprofit's data, research and systems while developing more relationships with state lawmakers, teachers and school leaders. Most of all, Cooper said the donation has made everyone at the nonprofit excited about what's to come.

"It just strengthens the resolve of each person ... to keep pushing forward and being able to continue serving those families across the state," Cooper said.

The donation is not the first of its kind for Scott. The philanthropist, the ex-wife of billionaire Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has donated funds to charities at a rapid rate since their divorce in 2019. She's donated more than $8 billion to organizations dedicated to combating inequity, the climate crisis, education issues and more, according to her blog Medium, where she published information about donations; Scott has since stopped publishing her donations on the blog.

Cooper said Scott's approach to philanthropy shows her dedication to improving the world around her.

"She wants to identify solid, good, nonprofits and organizations that are doing the work in their field," Cooper said. "It seems to be more about the work than the donor itself."

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HARMONY TWP, NJ - New Jersey State Police is seeking help locating a missing endangered man from Harmony Township.

NJSP say 42-year-old Bryan Vanassen was last seen at his home on January 31st around 7:00 a.m.

Officials say Vanassen left the home without his cell phone and is believed to be driving a black 1988 Ford Bronco, with a 4-inch lift, large black antenna on the rear, and chrome grill guard with New Jersey license plate A87NZY.

He is known to frequent Easton in Northampton County.

Vanassen is described as a white male, 5'11", 150 pounds, balding with brown eyes.

He was last seen wearing a brown jacket and black jogging pants with a silver stripe.

Police say he suffers from depression and anxiety and it is unknown if he has his medications with him.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Troop "B" Washington Station Detective Bureau at (908) 689-3101.
McVitie's have launched a new salted caramel flavour Club and it sounds dreamy. (McVitie's)

'If you like a lot of chocolate on your biscuit join our Club'

From the iconic retro jingle to the strong opinions everyone holds about their favourite flavour, snacks don't come more nostalgic than a Club biscuit.

But now, theres a whole new Club joining the classic Orange and Mint flavours and it's guaranteed to be a popular choice.

For the first time in a decade, McVitie's is launching a brand new Club flavour to join the existing line-up of the long-standing lotta chocolate biscuit bar.

Featuring its signature chunky chocolate exterior, the new snack, Salted Caramel flavour, has the same crunchy biscuit middle, but is topped with a dreamy-sounding salted caramel flavoured cream.

Read more: Craving new recipes? Amazons best-selling cookbook is currently half price

Pringles are launching two new flavours. (Pringles)

Perfect to satisfy those sweet and salty cravings, McVities Club Salted Caramel Flavour is now available in Morrisons, Asda and Iceland, and will be hitting shelves in Co-Op, Sainsburys and Tesco over the coming months.

McVities Club has been a favourite among biscuit-lovers for many years, so were very excited to be able to offer a brand-new flavour for fans to try," says David Titman, marketing director at McVities.

"The new biscuit has everything people know and love about Club, with its classic chunky chocolate exterior and crunchy biscuit middle, now with a sweet and salty twist. Salted caramel has become a hugely popular flavour over recent years, so we just couldnt resist!

Last year, the flavour bods at Mars Wrigley added Twix Salted Caramel, a new salted cookie bar, to their portfolio, while Nestle launched Munchies Salted Caramel Fudge and Poppets also recently added salted caramel to its range.

Watch: McDonalds reveal new Chicken Big Mac

McVitie's aren't the only brand to launch some new flavourings into their classic foods.

Also dabbling in switching up its flavour combos, Pringles has really added two new fiery flavours to the popular Pringles SizzlN range - Sweet Chilli and Spicy Chorizo.

Story continues

Spicy Chorizo will challenge Pringles lovers to step to the spice, while the milder Sweet Chilli will satisfy those who like to dabble with spice.

The intense Spicy Chorizo flavour boasts BBQ notes surrounded by rich cured meat taste and slightly smoked paprika, while the slightly milder Sweet Chilli has a spicy and aromatic flavour, made from a blend of fragrant spices and sweet chilli.

Read more: Brits reveal their most disgusting food fears, including bruised bananas, bony fish and mouldy bread

Weetos all-new, limited edition Orange Chocolatey Hoops cereal will also soon be giving our taste buds a treat in the morning. Available at Asda stores nationwide from 21st February, the crunchy wheat hoops combine cocoa with a tasty orange flavouring.

Meanwhile, shaking things up in the flavour mash-up department, Haagen-Dazs is soon to launch a new delicious-sounding 2 in 1 flavour, Vanilla Hazelnut & Caramel Crunch.

Adding to the popular DUO range, the side-by-side flavours create an elevated yet unexpected twist, giving a whole new meaning to ice cream decadence.

Aldi are launching a delicious new pizza. (Aldi)

On the savoury front, Aldi is launching a supermarket first, pairing one of the most premium meats in the world with a delicious sourdough base in the form of its brand new Specially Selected Gastro Wood Fired British Wagyu Pizza (3.99, 455g).

Launching crust in time (sorry) for Valentines, each base is topped with rich, shredded Wagyu beef brisket and smothered in a deliciously sweet, dark teriyaki sauce and caramelised onions.

Still on the pizza front Asda has also just announced the return of its popular heart-shaped pizzas just in time for Valentines Day - because nothing says I love you like a freshly made pizza in the shape of a love heart.

The much-loved heart shaped pizza is available on Asdas popular pizza counters and online now priced at 3.20 and comes in a range of flavours.

Read more: Chocolate Orange mayonnaise and other festive food mash-ups you didn't know you needed

For soft cheese fans, Philadelphia has recently launched a new plant-based soft cheese alternative.

Combining oats and almonds into a creamy spread, Philadelphia Plant Based is said by the makers to be every bit as good as the Original.

Watch: Sweet and savoury? Shop makes chicken nugget ice cream rolls
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The European Commissions vice president for values and transparency says the bloc is likely to have no room to take action if Hungary's elections in April fail to meet democratic standards.

Speaking to RFE/RL on February 3, Vera Jourova said she hopes the elections will be free and fair, "but if you ask me whether there will be some action taken after the elections if they proved to be undemocratic or unfair, I don't see any way of doing something concrete."

Jourova said Hungary is presenting a unique situation for the 27-nation bloc because we have always respected the leaders who have come out of the elections as the winners -- but I have to add democratic elections.

Hungarians head to the polls on April 3 in what is expected to be a tough test for Prime Minister Viktor Orban and his right-wing Fidesz party, who have been in power since 2010. Recent polls suggest a close race against opposition candidate Peter Marki-Zay, behind whom multiple opposition parties agreed to unite.

The 58-year-old Orban has turned Hungary into a self-styled "illiberal democracy" with tightened controls on media and civil society groups that have put the country at odds with European Union headquarters in Brussels.

Orban has said Fidesz's strong mandate at the voting booths in previous elections empowered him to rewrite laws, including the constitution.

His critics say his often controversial moves have turned the country away from the democratic norms that are considered a cornerstone across the European Union.

Jourova said the rules for the EU and for its member states have been designed with the understanding that there will always be free and fair elections.

The organization of elections falls under [the] absolute competence of the member states so we are not ready for such situations, she said.

Asked whether the situation made her feel powerless, she said she had mixed feelings but would always defend the balancing of powers in the EU.

While member states commit to respect, promote, and protect democratic principles at the moment of joining the EU, we lived in a very naive illusion that no state will ever deviate from these principles.

She nevertheless hopes the elections will be fair and notes that there will be monitors present and attention from foreign media.

I would really like to see the winner who will be able to say honestly, 'I have won free and fair elections,' she said.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Ray Furlong
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After months of messaging, debating, and mobilizing support around the importance of banning gerrymandering, expanding early voting, and securing equal access to elections, Senate Democrats werent able to pass legislation to protect voting rights at the federal level.

The effort is critical to shoring up our democratic institutions. In 2021, state legislators in 49 states introduced more than 440 bills to restrict voting, according to an analysis by the Brennan Center for Justice, a nonpartisan law and policy organization. Many of these bills succeeded: At least 19 states passed 34 laws limiting access to the ballot, more than any other year since the Brennan Center began tracking election legislation in 2011. These new laws are just one aspect of the GOPs coordinated attack on democracy. And without federal intervention, state legislators continue to introduce bills to suppress the vote ahead of the 2022 midterms.

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While much of the media and advocacy attention has focused on these suppressive efforts, missing from the conversation is another pernicious and coordinated attempt to short-circuit democracy: the increasingly aggressive campaign by Republican-dominated state legislatures to shut down the citizen-driven ballot measure process. Not taking this threat seriously means risking the loss of a vital tool in American self-governance. For over a century, in scores of states and cities, voters have been able to petition and place issues on the ballot and enact them directly into law, forcing their government to respond to their needs.

Most recently, ballot initiatives have broken legislative blockades holding back popular policies, particularly in red and purple political terrain. Since 2017, citizen-led ballot initiatives have bolstered health care coverage, resulting in the expansion of Medicaid in Idaho, Nebraska, Maine, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Utah.

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Its not only health care: In 2018, voters also raised the minimum wage in Arkansas and Missouri. In 2020, voters halted abusive payday lending practices in Nebraska and approved the nations first ballot initiative to guarantee at least 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave in Colorado.

Right-wing legislators in those states gnashed their teeth, but they could not stop popular democracy. Thanks to ballot measures, 875,000 previously uninsured Americans now have health care coverage, 2.6 million Coloradans wont be forced to choose between their income and their family, and Americans across the country have made more than an additional $20 billion in wages.

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Of course, any democratic process is two-sided, and ballot measures have been occasionally used to advance corporate or conservative interests. In 2020, California voters passed a ballot measure diminishing the rights of ride-hailing and delivery drivers after being bombarded with $200 million of advertising from Uber, Lyft, and their corporate peers.

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But the overall electoral pattern is clear: When voters have a chance to choose policy, even in states with majority-conservative federal delegations and state legislatures, they tend to choose progress.

And that is why ballot measures are now facing an existential, under-the-radar threat. Despite a long tradition of direct democracy in America, this avenue for policymaking is being closed off as some state legislatures try to shut down people-powered ballot measures, often in direct reaction to the success of progressive-leaning initiatives.

After Michigan voters legalized recreational marijuana, passed automatic voter registration and other voting protections, and enacted a redistricting commission at the ballot box in 2018, legislators waited only one month before passing a law requiring future ballot efforts to gather signatures from every corner of the state and register their signature collectors with the state government.

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In Florida, after voters restored the voting rights of Floridians with prior felony convictions, the Legislature enacted a laundry list of new restrictions on ballot measuresincluding requiring advocates to pay the state for the privilege of having citizen signatures counted. This will add millions of dollars in expense to every future citizen-initiated campaign.

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Some of these changes border on the absurd. For example, South Dakota legislators required all print on petitions be in 14-point font, in addition to mandating that all signatures and proposal text appear on one piece of paper, resulting in ridiculous beach-towel-size documents. These are all serious threats.

In Missouri alone, lawmakers considered 22 bills to weaken the initiative process in their last legislative session, including attempts to raise the number of signatures that would be required to bring an issue to the ballot and to raise the number of votes that would be required to win on Election Day. Perhaps not coincidentally, Missouri is also a state that has seen voters advance minimum wage, Medicaid expansion, and good government reforms via the ballot measure and over the public objections of its legislature.

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Last year, there were more than 87 attempts in state capitals to prevent voter-driven campaigns from reaching the ballot. Legislators in states like South Dakota and Arkansas are trying to redefine the meaning of majority rule, proposing constitutional amendments that require 60 percent voter approval in order for an approved policy to take effect.

When asked to justify this onslaught against ballot measures, many conservative state legislators across the country return to a common refrain: that somehow the process of direct democracy is too easy to manipulate and influenced by out-of-state actors. Just recently, Missouri state Rep. Jeff Coleman made this point, saying: What happens when outside influencers come into our state and decide that theyre going to change our constitution? They have nothing to do with our state other than the fact that they want to change what were doing as our citizenry in the state of Missouri.

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Oddly, these legislators have no problem receiving out-of-state campaign contributions and are not decrying lobbying by corporations headquartered out of state. The truth is that ballot measures require more participation by the residents of a given state than any other form of policymaking. Registered voters in a given state are the ones who decide on the proposed policy, sign the petitions, and vote yes or no.

Fortunately, despite all of these new hurdles, organizers and advocates continue to clear them. South Dakotans Decide Healthcare succeeded in qualifying Medicaid expansion for the ballot in 2022, making theirs the eighth state where voters will decide whether or not to expand the program for low-income residents. Across the country, dedicated citizens with clipboards are currently circulating petitions to raise the minimum wage, decriminalize marijuana, and curtail predatory lending.

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Judges are also getting wise to legislative attempts to undermine this vital democratic institution and have stood with the rights of voters in Idaho, Michigan, and South Dakota in overturning some of the laws curtailing ballot measures.

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As with all attacks on democracy, this is death by a thousand cuts. When it is harder to participate in democracy, fewer people willand that exclusion lands disproportionately on voters with fewer resources.

The bottom line: Across the country, progressives are in danger of losing an important state-based tool to advance policy. Its already slipping away. And while patchwork advancement of economic priorities may seem tedious, it is the real alternative to stalled federal-level policymaking.

If people are denied access to ballot measures, voters will lose their only guaranteed pathway to making progresson wages, on health care, on paid leave, and on protecting voting rights themselves.
[theme music]

Steve Tornes 0:02

Hello listeners! Im Steve Tornes with Below the Radar, a knowledge democracy podcast. Below the Radar is recorded on the territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples.

On this episode of Below the Radar, our host Am Johal is joined by Rumena Filipova, Co-Founder of the Institute for Global Analytics. In this episode, Rumena discusses her new book, Constructing the Limits of Europe: Identity and Foreign Policy in Poland, Bulgaria, and Russia since 1989. Rumena explores how those three countries differ so starkly in terms of the pace and extent of their integration into Europe. Enjoy the episode!

[theme music fades]

Am Johal 0:56

Hello, welcome to Below the Radar. Delighted that you could join us again this week. Really excited that we have Rumena Filipova with us today. Welcome, Rumena.

Rumena Filipova 1:06

Hi, and thank you for the invitation.

Am Johal 1:09

Yeah, wondering if we can begin with you introducing yourself a little bit.

Rumena Filipova 1:14

I'm co-founder and chairperson of the Institute for Global Analytics. We are a newly established think tank in Bulgaria, which aims to connect the global with the local in an increasingly interconnected world. My research areas include international relations, identity politics, media, and disinformation, with a regional focus on Central and Eastern Europe, Russia and also China and East Asia more broadly. And my forthcoming book is titled Constructing the Limits of Europe Identity and Foreign Policy in Poland, Bulgaria, and Russia since 1989.

Am Johal 1:57

Okay! And so a part of what you study as well is sort of Russian influence in Central and Eastern Europe. So, far away from Vancouver, where I'm based, and I'm wondering if you can sort of characterize, sort of certainly in the post-1990 context of what you see as major themes in that regard, in terms of the dissolution of the former Soviet Union, into Russian interests and attempts at influence in the region.

Rumena Filipova 2:29

So first of all, in terms of the context, it is very important to mention that initially since '89, in the first decade of the 90s, and also until some point in the 2000s, Russia, like the other countries of Central and Eastern Europe was attempting to join the Euro-Atlantic community in ideational, security, and economic terms. However, this process happened a lot more smoothly and was successful in certain parts of Central and Eastern Europe. However, Russia was not integrated into the Euro-Atlantic community and since at least 2008, It has tried to reestablish its influence in the former communist area of Central and Eastern Europe. And most recently, Russia has posited conservatism and traditional values, including patriotism, strong state authority, collective values of the traditional family, and also in terms of international relations, balances of power, and spheres of influence as an alternative to liberal democracy and to the Western-led international order.

In this context, the dissemination of this information has been a prime tool through which Russia has been trying to reestablish its influence in the region. And drawing on my research for the study countering the Kremlin's influence in Europe, we can actually say that there is an important trend of significant commonalities of the disseminated pro-Russian, anti-democratic narratives in the range of countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including Bulgaria, Poland, the Czech Republic, but also Germany from the western half of the continent. And interestingly, all those similar narratives feed into a so-called pro-Kremlin, anti-democratic discursive ecosystem, which is based on four main pillars which are informed by nationalist, misogynist, and anti-migrant and also economically illiberal narratives.

So, just to give an example with nationalist narratives, Russia is usually posited as the prime anti-fascist power in the world, whereas it is argued that neo-Nazi practices are resurging in the West. Also, it is argued that traditional values guard against the supposed excesses of liberalism and also there is a high premium placed on sovereignty as a way to safeguard idealized traditional identity. So, all in all, we have to say that the resurgence of Russian power in its attempt to re-establish itself, in the spheres of its former communist allies has taken place very prominently in the media sphere.

Am Johal 5:49

Yeah, when I think about illiberalism as a term, immediately I think of Viktor Orban in Hungary as a kind of example of forms of hypernationalism, and uses of the term. And I think it's also important to understand the psychology of the nation-states and Central and Eastern Europe, in the sense going from a form of authoritarianism into what in the 90s could be characterized as a form of crony capitalismselloff of state assets, frustration with systems, the possibilities of joining the EU, and also a kind of cynicism of what came afterwards.

So, seeing in people's lifetimes, the changing of systems and different influences, and a way that was disconnected from people, and so it creates a kind of atmosphere where forms of populism, and the Russian intervention in these places and attempts to influence media and others has a place to kind of gain a foothold because of those frustrations. Would that be accurate to say?

Rumena Filipova 6:57

It is. It is indeed accurate, and it's very interesting, and to some observers, it may be surprising that countries, such as Poland, and Hungary, which were really frontrunners, in terms of the democratization, processing the transition to a free-market economy in the 1990s, and also well into the 2000s, in a way reversed their course so to say, and I would argue that this is about the return of a particular form of national tradition of conception of Europe, which is much more conservative, and which has coexisted with the liberal understandings and liberal conception of Europe that does also exist in those societies. So, there is a tug of war between these two kinds of understandings of Europe and they're rooted in long-term histories of the region. It is exactly because the liberal tradition was empowered in the 1990s, it took precedence and it was implemented, that it was possible for the countries of Central Europe--and here, I mean Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic--to carry out the transition process in a more or less successful way, or at least in a much more advanced way, than the countries of let's say, Southeast Europe, where different histories make the region a little bit more ambiguous in terms of its affinities between East and West.

But, we do indeed see this processa return of the conservative, much more authoritarian traditionin countries like Hungary and Poland, which also represent in a way a backlash against the depth and extent of the process of Europeanisation. That happens so quickly, in those countries, and in particular, on the parts of some sections of society that lost out economically. Yeah, so, it's both an ideational, and also a process which also has its economic insecurity underpinnings, but it's definitely the case that Russia is trying to engage those conservative layers of society, and it has done so through a variety of ways, for instance, by building links with extremist parties, or at least parties, which have pro -Russian and anti-European to some extent, leanings, also through financial backing both political actors, but also journalists and business people.

So, it has used a variety of means in order to build connections to the circles of European societies. And here, I mean not just Hungary, but also a range of other countries like Austria, for example, or Italy, so that in this way, the Kremlin can advance its agenda.

Am Johal 9:57

You know, Rumena, when I've travelled to Europe, it's interesting when you ask, you know, where does, you know, Central or Eastern Europe begin. And youre in a place, everyone always thinks Eastern Europe is to the east of them, you know, you go to Hungary, it's like, oh, Eastern Europe starts in Romania or, you know, it really, it's an interesting thing about where these, borders imagined or not, actually begin and end in so many ways.

In terms of how you see Russia today, in which countries of Eastern Europe, do you, would you characterize the greatest influence that they have? Or the most activity, as you see it? And also, what forms does it take? You know, every nation-state has interests, they attempt to assert their rights and interests. And so in which ways does Russia try to do that? And in which ways does it move away from what would be the norms of a nation-state engaging in diplomacy or influence in a place?

Rumena Filipova 10:56

So first of all, it's important indeed, to put Russian influence in Central and Eastern Europe in its historical context and just highlight the fact that Russia has well-established channels of influence and connections in the region, due to the fact that these countries belonged to the same system before '89, and they have some shared affinities in terms of language, history, and ethnic ties. And so, Russia already can tap into a set of important ties that it has established in the region. Now, as a result, we see both similarities but also differences in terms of the intensity of Russian influence in the region.

So, if we look at Southeast Europe, for example, we can see that Russia deploys a number of similar instruments for leveraging its media influence, also similar channels and narratives that it is disseminating to the regionalso, in terms of audience impact, that there are a number of similarities across the Balkans, for example, that predisposed to a high degree of receptivity to Russian messaging and also, of late, another authoritarian power, namely China, has been amplifying and acting together with Russia in terms of disseminating anti-EU and anti-NATO messaging. So just to give an example, in terms of the instruments of Russian influence in the Balkans, it is very interesting that Russia typically deploys informal means of influence, which are based on the cultivation of opaque local networks of patronagethat is to say, building economic ties and political links to business people, journalists, content creators, also business people and they stand in opposition to some kind of direct ownership of media outlets that can be easily traceable in officially available sources. So, this means that the direct presence of Russian companies in the ownership structures of Balkan media outlets is very negligible.

So, the way that influence is leveraged is through informal mediums from influence. And it is also interesting to note that these informal means of influence are augmented through a number of other, so to say, auxiliary tools. For example, Russia is able to tap into the advertising markets of Southeast European countries, and in this way generate revenue but also affect public opinion. We should note, again, the importance of lingering linguistic ties and the fact that still, a number of journalists within those countries understand Russian and therefore seek Russian sources of information.

And last but not least, it's important to mention the opportunities for free of charge reprinting of Russian-owned outlets such as Sputnik, and this is definitely a boon in the financially constrained markets in the Balkans. And I would also like to highlight a number of other similarities related to the audience impact and receptivity to Russian disinformation messaging, in particular two trends that Russia is able to tap into. So the first one is related to the lingering ambiguities in the region. So, they're still ambivalent Between their Eastern and Western affinities, which is usually expressed in the willingness to maintain good ties with both Russia and the West.

Also, it is very interesting that as regards the EU members, from the region and also the prospective candidates, they usually associate European Union with instrumental benefits, such as the ability to travel, find employment throughout other EU countries, and so the values-based affinity and attachment to the EU is much weaker, which is again, dangerous because Russia can cling to the emotional and values-based differences and attachments in the region, and the second important trend that Russia is able to leverage is the prevalent discontent with the process of democratization in the Balkans, and also the high level of distrust in political institutions in the media as well. So, Russia is successfully channelling its narratives in a way that will sway public opinion so that the credibility of democracy is weakened in the message, the disinformation messages spread that authoritarianism is a preferable, political arrangement to democracy.

Am Johal 16:08

I imagine in the Balkans, the heaviest influence of Russia is likely in Serbia, but is it in other parts of the Balkans as well?

Rumena Filipova 16:16

Yes. So when it comes to the differences of Russian influence, of course, there're important country-based differentiations in the permeability of rational cause, because there are different degrees to which after all, Russia is able to penetrate the informational environments of those countries. So, it's absolutely indeed the case that Serbia can be termed a pillar of Russian disinformation activities, and this is so because of a number of reasons. Apart from the political context in which Serbia is trying to, so to say, balance relations between the West and the East, more concretely on the rational Sputnik with its Serbian language addition is a very important channel of disseminating Russian messages not only in Serbia, but also throughout the region because of the intelligibility of the Serbian language for Western Balkan audiences. But also apart from Sputnik, it is important to mention that a lot of pro-government outlets in Serbia themselves disseminate Russian propagandist messages, and also Chinese ones, of late and China has, in Serbia does serve as a digital hub for China, in the Balkans. So this is on one end of the spectrum, really.

But then there are countries such as Albania and Kosovo, where the situation is somewhat different because Russian influence does not have firm grounds on which to stand. And this, of course, has to do with the larger historical and political context and the fact that Russia has opposed Kosovo's independence, and has tried to drive a wedge between the Albanian populations and the Slavic populations in the Balkans. So, Russia cannot really attempt to disseminate messages within the Kosovo media environment which portrays Moscow and Russian society in a very positive way, because there is no societal receptivity for that.

But, the way that Russian influence media flows work in countries which have had historically difficult relations with the Kremlin is to affect the external environment and external viewsof Kosovo in this case, but also this applies to Poland. So, to taint in a way the image of those countries in the eyes of its neighbours and also the rest of Europe. So there are definitely degrees of influence.

Am Johal 18:58

I want to come back to this question of Russia exerting its influence, and how it differs from, say, the United States or the EU or another actor in Central Europe, in Germany, which has a lot of influence as well, economically, and in what parts of Russian engagement in this way of breaks from norms.

It certainly seems there's illiberal messaging at play, and certain ways of gaining and consolidating positioning and influence, but in what ways is it new? And which ways does it break from norms of other countries and other institutions attempting to gain--you know, for example, in Bosnia, there's a lot of money from Saudi Arabia coming in EU and other places. And so, different entities have different agendas in the region, just as Russia does, but what sets their engagement up as different or breaking from norms?

Rumena Filipova 20:02

So, as we discussed at the very beginning, Russia has given up on integrating within the Euro Atlantic communitywhich, if it happens, has to happen not only on the basis of strategic alignment or economic transformation but also in terms of norms and values. So, a key part of the EU and NATO accession process was about implementing in practice a set of liberal democratic values and norms in the countries which had the strongest, also historically underlined affinities, and ability to practice, those norms were the most advanced ones in terms of being able to join the EU, NATO and a variety of Western structures and institutions. However, in the Russian case, despite the declarations, mostly rhetorical declarations about the desire to join the Euro Atlantic space, particularly in the early 1990s, also in the very early 2000s, it gradually became clear that Russian values--the predominantly empowered Russian values so to say, the tradition of thinking in Russia, the particular tradition of view, and the evolution of the domestic political regime made it clear that Russia could not integrate to the West on the basis of the same liberal democratic values, because it was evolving in the direction of a conservative tradition in its discourse and policies.

And so, as a result, when it comes to Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans, more specifically, Russia has started competing on a normative level with the West. So, as opposed to liberal democratic norms, integration, the values of good neighbourliness, which are important facets of the EU integration process, Russia has posited an authoritarian political regime, statism, the value of patriotism and collectivism. So there has been a fully-fledged ideological challenge that Russia has posed, and it has been expressed in particular in the media messages that it has been disseminating.

But when it comes to other actors, it is important to know that China has recently also increased its presence in the region, and usually in concert with Russia. So, this makes up the team of so to say, authoritarian states, which oppose liberal democracy in the West, not only on the global level, when in terms of their visions of how the international order should look like it should be structured but also in terms of the local manifestations of these competing ambitions. So, and just to give an example, as opposed to the freedom of expression of a variety of views and holding politicians to account which should be the primary function of media, pro-Russian groups and interests have converted, tried to capture the ownership structures in an informal way, mostly and also editorial policies so that it conforms to a particular, singular aim for authoritarian, anti-democratic point of view.

Am Johal 23:33

And certainly, in recent years, seeing the annexation of Crimea, Russian involvement and continued engagement and influence in the Ukraine, but also the Baltic countries as well. And I'm wondering if you can speak a little bit to Russian influence, presently in Ukraine and the Baltic countries where significant Russian minorities exist as well.

Rumena Filipova 23:56

And that is also a somewhat different context that we have to take into considerationthe Baltic countries, in particular given their experience of outright Russian domination over their sovereignties, and also conceptions of nationality have a very different stance than some countries in the Western Balkans or in Southeast Europe more generally, in that, in that they're highly and acutely vigilant of all kinds of Russian meddling and activities and influence operations in the political, economic, and media sphere. So, in general, we can say that these societies are a lot more attuned to the dangers of Russian influence, which is in itself an important precondition for countering it, because if we compare that to the Balkans, again, what comes out is that these countries in the region still have very strong affinities and ties to Russia, which often prevents the development of civil societal resilience towards Russian initiatives, and also political acknowledgement of the security threat that Russia frequently presents to the countries in the region.

Now, when it comes to Ukraine, of course, it has very significant divides within society in many ways. But what the events of late 2013 and 2014 have changed is the perception of Russia in large parts of Ukrainian society. So if before 2013, 2014, Russia was... it could be seen in a positive way, then the events completely turned the dial and it, actually, we can argue whether Russian actions were at all strategically well thought out and because in a way, they lost the hearts and minds of the Ukrainians.

Am Johal 26:03

Mhm. Now, you spoke to this sort of confluence of Russian and Chinese interests overlapping. And of course, there's a long history of those countries both being aligned, but also historically not aligned in periods. And we seem to be back in a time where there are mutual interests, particularly in countering Western domination and expansion, the... Jimmy Carter's former Secretary of State, Zbigniew Brzezinski, originally from Poland, often would talk about that, in the great game of geopolitics, that it was in Europe's and American interests to bring Russia into the European sphere. And this was like, the long-term play, and Putin regularly critiques on his own, and certainly, Russian, geopolitical analysts do the same. And I'm wondering if you can speak a little bit to that confluence between China and Russia in terms of where their interests align, but also, are there contexts in which they have different interests in particular regions that may produce either a conflict or a misalignment in terms of what they're trying to do?

Rumena Filipova 27:11

So, in terms of the context in Southeast Europe, what we're seeing so far in terms of evidence is that it seems that Russia and China are cooperating. So, just to give an example from the media sphere, China is increasingly making inroads in the informational spaces of the Balkan countries. And one of the ways in which this is happening is through Russian channels and instruments of influence. And I can give examples with Bulgaria and Serbia. When it comes to Bulgaria, China uses the local pro-Russian proxies in order to expand its media influence. For example, China Today, the China Today newspaper is a recent addition to the news market in Bulgaria, and it has the same editorial and management structure as Russia Today. So, this is one example of cooperation through local actors who are both pro-Russian and pro-Chinese. And in the Serbian case, this confluence between Russia and China takes place even on a higher political level; so basically, it reaches the highest echelons of power. One way in which this is happening is through the Joint Council that exists in Serbia for coordinating the cooperation initiatives with the Russian Federation, and China, and also we see that in the media sphere in that Serbian pro-government outlets disseminate both Russian and Chinese disinformation.

Now, when it comes to other areas and countries of the world, I can say that we have yet to see whether there will be significant divergences between Russia and China. But most recently, it seems that the evidence points in the direction of coaction. For instance, when it comes to the Afghanistan, both Russia and China seem to have coordinated their positions, and in the very least, their goals and assessment of what is happening and how the situation should be handled sound very, very similar. So, for now, we have, we see evidence of cooperation and coordination between the two countries. But of course, there is always room for divergence. And one important element which is uniting them is the common opposition to the West and liberal values, and I can include Turkey also in that framework, and also the nature of their domestic political regimes, which are authoritarian. So they're important ideological ties. And even if there are strategic differences, particularly in the Russian-Turkish relationship, for example, in that scene, that the two countries are able to tone it down in the name of their shared goal of opposing the Western liberal order.

Am Johal 30:18

What do you see as the possibilities of an antidote to the forms of hypernationalism, which seemed to have taken root in Central and Eastern Europe? There's, you know, differential levels of civil society engagement in some of these countries. And certainly, it's gone up and down post-1990, and at moments of EU integration. But what do you see now as some, both negative trends related to nationalism, but also some positive trends that might be emerging on the underground?

Rumena Filipova 30:50

So in terms of negative trends, it shouldn't be mentioned that the anti-democratic turn in Central and Eastern Europe is also, of course, paralleled by similar trends in the rest of the European continent. So, we see the rise of right-wing populism, particularly since 2008which was the result of a variety of factors, including economic disenchantment, disappointment with the political elites, but also the reemergence and empowerment of a particular nationalist, authoritarian tradition within those societies. And so basically, right-wing populists postulate a self-designated idea of the majority of the nation and their sovereignty, as opposed to individual rights and freedoms against liberal constitutional checks and balances. So these are the commonalities across Europe, but we should mention that the problem of right-wing nationalism has been also reinforced by technological development, including a variety of monopolistic practices on the part of the technological giants and the fact that they can use their digital infrastructures in large access to a huge number of their users' information to generate profit, and also to block competition from up and coming arrivals.

Here, the debate about digital tax  how much, or even whether they should be taxed, figuring this set of factors as well, and also not to forget that technological developments have had a very important social and political impact in terms of how the spread of disinformation impacts electoral choices, for example, and how it enables authoritarian influence. So we have right-wing populism, it's exacerbated in certain ways by technological developments. And then we have, of course, the rise of authoritarian states and the conservative authoritarian challenge that they pose in the way that they interfere in European societies building, links with conservative sections. And finally, to add those factors, we have the very specific issue of the inability for the EU to forge a common response to a variety of domestic political and also external challenges, and we still have the issue of legal fragmentation within the union as a major issue. So nation-states still want to, and they jealously guard their national competencies, and sometimes the EU level may be reticent about asserting its authority. So it's an ongoing challenge.

And I would say that the confluence of these factors does not bode very well for, for even the development of democracy and further trends, but of course, not all should be doom and gloom, and there is always the space for the reassertion of civil society, of liberal democratic norms. And that happens, especially when they're particularly under threat from authoritarian designs. And just to give one example, during the pandemic. So, at the very beginning, when it comes to... I'm specifically talking about the Balkans, it was believed that during times of crisis, which was also a general trend, people tend to rally behind "strong leaders," so to say in quotation marks, and that there is no dissent and people need the certainty provided by a strong leader. And that was a sociological trend that we were seeing here in Bulgaria, for example, but this changed very quickly and large-scale protests also erupted and these protests were about the reassertion of political transparencythey were against corruption in the oligarchic networks in the economy, society and media. So it is possible even when we think that all is quiet eye on the civil societal front, things may actually change, and people may start to reassert their rights and use social media to that purpose.

Am Johal 35:20

I'm wondering if you can speak to  with climate change the climate emergency, broadly, how that could affect geopolitics in Central and Eastern Europe. I'm wondering if you see any trends there in terms of the climate emergency and how that could exacerbate existing geopolitical tensions in that part of the world.

Rumena Filipova 35:43

Now, first of all, it is important to mention that the extent to which Central and East European states are able to transition to clean technologies will be happening through the support of the EU. So, for instance, the recovery and the resilience plan and the transition to green economies will also significantly depend on the support from the European Union. So in that case, I think that the Central and East European members of the EU will depend for their transition, particularly on the West, whereas countries such as China, have not been really up to observing environmental standards in their economic activities and projects in the region. This may actually lead to backlash on the local level from the people who are experiencing such environmental damage in a very personal way to their livelihoods in the ways of life in the way that it is happening currently in Serbia, the bor copper mine. So, when there is a backlash, it is very likely that it will happen also on the local level. And just not to forget that climate change has micro-effects in terms of the livelihoods of people and also their very immediate way of living in an environment.

Am Johal 37:16

Yeah. Rumena, is there anything you'd like to add?

Rumena Filipova 37:21

Perhaps I would like to speak to the ways in which we can counter authoritarian designs, particularly in the media sphere. And I thinkand this applies not only to Central and Eastern Europe but also to other countries as well. It's perhaps important for us to rethink the types of financing models that sustain media outlets, because currently what we have is the division between the commercial or private form of financing the media, and also public or government form of financing and so, when it comes to the private sources of capital for media, especially in central in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, this leads to oligarchic control of news sources. So that is the same local magnates then to assume control over media, and the result is that such news outlets tend to course defend the asset in the interest of their local captors.

So, and just more generally, we can rethink sources of financing. So, first of all, there can be diverse forms of ownership. There can also be diverse forms of financing, thinking of innovative ways of funding the media, such as through donations and also crowdfunding. But also, when it comes to review councils and also decision-making bodies of media outlets, it is important to include a variety of stakeholders, which means not just the owners, but also the leading journalists in the dedicated readership of those news outlets.

Am Johal 39:13

Romina thank you so much for joining us on Below the Radar. It was wonderful to listen to your analysis of Central Eastern Europe and Russian influence. Thank you so much.

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Steve Tornes 39:29

Below the Radar is a knowledge democracy podcast created by SFUs Vancity Office of Community Engagement. Thanks for listening to this episode with Rumena Filipova. For more information about her latest book, check out the show notes.

Dont forget to stay up to date with Below the Radar by visiting us online at sfu.ca/voce, or following us on our various social channels; on Instagram and Twitter @sfu_voce, or on facebook @sfuvoce. Thanks again for listening, and well see you next time on Below the Radar.

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Attachment
WASHINGTON  The Missile Defense Agencys plan to field an interceptor against incoming hypersonic weapons has hit a funding snag, the agencys director said Wednesday.

MDA in November selected three companies to design a Glide Phase Interceptor that would hit enemy hypersonic missiles during the glide phase, or the flat path they take while en route to their targets. MDA awarded Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Raytheon Missiles and Defense other transactional agreements for an accelerated concept design phase of the program, Defense News reported at the time.

Asked about the path forward for the three companies developing their solutions, MDA Director Vice Adm. Jon Hill told Defense News on Wednesday he had little news.

The best answer I can give you in this environment today:  We live in a world right now where we dont have current year appropriations, and we also dont have insight into the following years topline. So unfortunately, that throttles this program, he said after speaking at an American Society of Naval Engineers conference.

Its not a technology issue, he added. It is purely a financial problem. And so I cant say much more other than the fact that weve got three great proposals on the table that were evaluating now, and thats going to inform us as we move forward to the next step.

MDA in 2020 paused its efforts to develop a counter-hypersonics missile, with Hill saying at the time that the organization needed to refocus and seek a near-term solution that could feed into a more elegant solution down the road.

A depiction of the Missile Defense Agency's approach to layered hypersonic missile defense. (MDA slide)

What MDA came up with builds off its current infrastructure for ballistic missile defense. Hill said in his Feb. 2 Combat Systems Symposium speech those existing sensors and communications systems could see hypersonic missiles, but not well enough to create a proper fire solution.

Were not at zero today, he said. So MDA and the U.S. Navy took a close look at what the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system could and couldnt do against hypersonics. An analysis of alternatives outlined what was still needed for sensing, command and control and weapons, Hill said.

Story continues

A video Hill played at the conference outlined a potential engagement: Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensors would detect a missile launch, as well as the first-, second- and third-stage separation. The HBTSS system continuously feeds data to the Ballistic Missile Defense System Overhead Persistent Infrared Architecture, or BOA, which uses the real-time data to create a track of the hypersonic missile. The Aegis BMD system on a Navy destroyer receives the track, plans a solution and fires the glide phase interceptor, which Hill said would need even greater speed and agility than the hypersonic missiles it would knock down. That glide phase interceptor would be connected to HBTSS for updated tracking data once it left the ship, and the interceptor would kill the threat before it got too close to its intended target.

Hill said some of the key pieces are already in place, but MDA and its joint force partners are trying to build and field whats left.

A slide in his presentation noted MDA and the U.S. Space Force plan to launch HBTSS into orbit in fiscal 2023 for a demonstration.

The biggest gap, then, remains the interceptor.

Today, targets such as aircraft carriers arent totally unprotected. The destroyers that sail with them and protect the capital asset are equipped with the Standard Missile-6, which can act as a terminal interceptor  meaning they stop the missile on its final approach to the target, rather than farther away during the glide phase. The ships would retain this SM-6 terminal intercept capability going forward, but Hill said adding the glide phase interceptor to the ships magazine would push the missile defense shield farther away from high-value assets like aircraft carriers.

Jen Judson contributed to this report.
A general view shows damaged buildings and landscape covered with ash following the volcanic eruption and tsunami in Kanokupolu, Tonga, Jan. 23, 2022.
MANAMA (Reuters) -Israel and Bahrain signed a security cooperation agreement on Thursday, the first between Israel and a Gulf nation, during a visit by the Israeli defence minister to the kingdom amid heightened tensions in the region.

Bahrain, along with the United Arab Emirates, normalised relations with Israel in 2020 under the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords, partly out of shared concerns about Iran.

"The MOU (memorandum of understanding) framework will support any future cooperation in the areas of intelligence, mil-to-mil (military to military), industrial collaboration and more," the Israeli Defence Ministry said in a statement.

An Israeli official said Thursday's agreement with Bahrain was the first such pact that Israel had reached with one of its new allies in the Gulf.

"Only one year following the signing of the (Abraham) Accords, we have achieved an important defence agreement which will contribute to the security of both countries and the stability of the region," the Israeli Defence Ministry quoted defense minister Benny Gantz as saying.

It said he and his Bahraini counterpart signed the document, and that Gantz had held talks with King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa at the royal palace.

Earlier in the day, Gantz visited the U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet's headquarters in Bahrain.

Bahrain hosts the Fifth Fleet's headquarters as well as some operations for CENTCOM, a U.S. military coordination umbrella organisation for the Middle East that Israel joined last year.

"Against a backdrop of increasing maritime and aerial threats, our ironclad cooperation is more important than ever," Gantz said on Twitter after the naval base visit.

The UAE on Wednesday said it intercepted three drones https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/uae-says-it-destroyed-3-drones-that-penetrated-its-airspace-wednesday-2022-02-02 that entered its airspace over unpopulated areas in the fourth such attack in the past few weeks.

Story continues

The first three assaults were launched by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis in an escalation with a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and which includes the UAE.

Israel this week is joining a 60-nation U.S.-led Middle East naval exercise alongside the UAE and Bahrain and, for the first time, publicly alongside Saudi Arabia and Oman, two countries it has no diplomatic relations with.

(Writing by Lisa Barrington; Additional reporting by Jeffrey Heller; editing by John Stonestreet and Toby Chopra)
The Senate voted to confirm former coal lobbyist Andrew Wheeler as official head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Thursday.

Wheeler has run the agency since July, when he replaced former administrator Scott Pruitt following a resignation prompted by numerous scandals. As acting administrator, Wheeler has confirmed the fears of environmentalists that he would be a smarter threat, pursuing President Donald Trumps deregulatory agenda without the distraction of Pruitts more obvious corruption.

Unlike with some nominees, we do not have to speculate about what Mr. Wheeler will do in office, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) senior vice president for political affairs Elizabeth Gore told The Washington Post in an email. From his actions as acting administrator for the past eight months, we have clear evidence of his agenda: undermine rules to limit toxic mercury, allow more smog and water pollution, and roll back protections against the threat of climate change. The senators who voted to entrust Mr. Wheeler with our environment know exactly what he will do with that power.

The Senate voted to confirm Wheeler 52 to 47, almost entirely on party lines. Republican Maine Senator Susan Collins was the only member of her party to vote against Wheelers confirmation.

I believe that Mr. Wheeler, unlike Scott Pruitt, understands the mission of the EPA and acts in accordance with ethical standards; however, the policies he has supported as Acting Administrator are not in the best interest of our environment and public health, particularly given the threat of climate change to our nation, Collins said in a statement.

I will vote against Andrew Wheelers confirmation to become Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. My full statement: pic.twitter.com/rhbQeRwJAS  Sen. Susan Collins (@SenatorCollins) February 27, 2019

Some of Wheelers most controversial acts include rolling back Obama-era emissions standards for cars and light trucks, replacing Obamas landmark Clean Power Plan with a version that would both increase greenhouse gas emissions and cost more than a thousand lives a year due to air pollution, weakening the protections of the Waters of the United States rule, and allowing coal plants to emit more mercury.

His actions worsened the air we breathe, jeopardized the water we drink and increased our exposure to toxic chemicals, Natural Resources Defense Council senior director of federal affairs John Bowman said in a statement.

[facebook https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=2105756766408617 expand=1]

California Air Resources Board leader Mary Nichols, who has negotiated with Wheeler over changes in vehicle emissions standards and whether the EPA would challenge Californias waiver under the Clean Air Act to make its own, stricter regulations, said the difference between Pruitt and Wheeler was all style and no substance.

I have to say that I dont find him materially different than Scott Pruitt in his policies or the mission that he has taken on, Nichols told The New York Times. The only difference really is that he is more polished and more professional to deal with.

Many Republicans and industry representatives, on the other hand, praised Wheelers efforts.

Hes been a very solid follow on to Scott Pruitt. Republican energy lobbyist Michael McKenna told The New York Times. Hes followed through in a fairly aggressive fashion on everything Scott started.
The summers final Live on the Waterfront concert was held Wednesday evening at Prince Arthurs Landing. The popular series in Thunder Bay has completed nine weekly shows that began on July 13. Wednesdays concert was unique as it was held one hour later in the evening to mesh with the 10 p.
An Agapic Vision for Survivor-Sensitive Investigations

By Bishop Todd Hunter, C4SO

I looked and saw all the oppression that was taking place under the sun:

I saw the tears of the oppressed

and they have no comforter;

power was on the side of their oppressors

and they have no comforter.

Ecclesiastes 4:1

Doing what is right and treating people fairly

Sticking up for the down-and-out

Isnt this what it means to know the Lord?

Jeremiah 22:16 (MSG)

And now I will show you the most excellent way

The greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 12:31, 13:13

The scenarios are all too familiar.

Jane, a single woman in her early 30s, volunteered for her church. The pastor befriended her and started arranging times for them to work on planning projects at night, alone. Over time, she submitted to his advances, and they became sexually intimate.

Culver, a youth pastor at a local church, was admired by parents and students alike. Tragically, he regularly molested boys in the youth group during overnight lock-ins, creating years of secrecy, shame and grief in his community.

Pastor Robert was kind in the church foyer and warm in the pulpit, but a dehumanizing tyrant to anyone on staff who didnt live up to his constant demands, leaving his leaders and staff demoralized and afraid.

In many communities, churches are marked by this terrible cycle of abuse, one that requires acknowledging the trauma of survivors and securing fairness for the accused. What is the Church to do? We often fall prey to partisan polarizations:

The leftist, woke progressives care about survivors. The conservative right cares about due process for the accused and protecting the institution at all costs.

However, there is another, more excellent way to respond: agape (1 Corinthians 12:31). Agape explodes prejudicial polarizations with a central question of Christian spirituality: What does love require?

Christian spirituality works like this: cherishing and treasuring the other person rules out abuses of all kinds. It makes them unthinkable. Those alive in Jesus dont have to force themselves not to abuse peoplecherishing and treasuring them makes it impossible to even consider. Jesus-followers will the good of others. It is possible for the Church to both minister to survivors, and, in asking What does love require? provide the spirit of procedural due process for perpetrators.[1]

The Scope of the Problem

First, love requires us to see and admit to the scope of the problem. An estimated 3,000 priests sexually abused 330,000 children, 80% boys, in France's Catholic Church over the past 70 years.[2] Catholic Bishops in Canada have had to apologize unequivocally to the countrys Indigenous peoples for a century of child abuse at church-run residential schools.[3] Sexual abuse by Catholic clergy members has been documented in every state in the United States. The abuse allegations span multiple decades and thousands of victims. In 2021, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) reported 4,228 child sexual abuse allegations. These allegations were filed by 3,924 abuse survivors from July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020. The incidents involved more than 2,700 individual clergy members from across the country.[4]

Protestants have their own unfortunate history. In the last 25 years, hundreds of leaders in the Southern Baptist Convention sexually abused 700 of its members.[5] From the televangelist scandals of 1980s up to today, there is a sad, depressing, and consistent pattern of evangelical leaders being caught in abuse, harassment, sexual sin of most every kind, fraud, financial exploitation, misuse of funds, misuse of power, and spiritual abuse. The evangelical movement clearly shows us the current angst regarding the state of the Church, not to mention the millions of people who tuned into each episode of The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill podcast.

My decades supervising churches and clergy tell me that the vast majority of clergy are good, humble servants who work faithfully and sacrificially for those under their care. Even so, the ubiquity of abuse is undeniable, and the call to love requires us to comprehend its terrible scope.

Love Prioritizes the Pain of Survivors.

One of the most fundamental and undeniable aspects of Jesus teachings is his unequivocal concern for the powerless and the oppressed. Survivors are, by definition, a part of this prioritized community of the vulnerable. And yet, too often, survivors are treated as problems to be solved by judicatories. They become issues to be handled by PR teams. They are reduced to adversaries to be defeated by legal counsel.

Problemsissuesadversaries: these descriptors, and the practices by which they are manifest, are dehumanizing and retraumatizing for those whose bodies, minds, and souls have already been abused. Such re-harming could prove even worse than the sexual or spiritual abuse survivors first endured: now the whole Church, through its official institutional power, is menacing them.

Along this path, the truth is not discovered, exposed, and healed. The vulnerable of the Church remain at risk. The deep and profound irony is when the Church simply moves clergy who misbehave to another church or gives them a slap on the wristall in an effort to protect the Churchs reputationthey are actually trading short-term PR gain for long-term reputational pain. Presently, among the watching world, the gig is up. No one buys it or will tolerate it anymore. The way survivors are commonly treated, and the way perpetrators are too often allowed to skate, is destroying the witness of the Church.

Love Restores Agency to the Traumatized.

But what does it look like to love those who are vulnerable? More often than not, it primarily means restoring the agency that was taken from them by the abuse. When thinkers and practitioners call for survivor-sensitive or trauma-sensitive approaches to allegations of clergy misconduct, they have in mind the wisdom that emerges from agape-permeated values, such as:

Survivors must be involved in every aspect of the churchs response to allegations , from reporting, designing the investigative process, investigating, and announcing any sentence, to creating needed reform in the church and securely holding survivors.

from reporting, designing the investigative process, investigating, and announcing any sentence, to creating needed reform in the church and securely holding survivors. Survivors must be discovered and have a safe way of coming forward. They must know enough about the investigative approach to feel believed, welcomed, and safe in the investigation. They must be assured of as much confidentiality as possible, that they can even report to the investigator anonymously and be anonymous in the final, public report. It is crucial that survivors not be outed to those who could harm them or even take their life.

They must know enough about the investigative approach to feel believed, welcomed, and safe in the investigation. They must be assured of as much confidentiality as possible, that they can even report to the investigator anonymously and be anonymous in the final, public report. It is crucial that survivors not be outed to those who could harm them or even take their life. Churches, various judicatories, and religious institutions must not investigate themselves using employees who work for the institution. Leaders of the church must have the courage to step aside. As Scot McKnight has written: The church surrenders for the good of the other (the Survivor).[6]Surrender for the good of others fits securely in any definition of agape. Churches should use independent outside contractors.

One could understandably wonder, Why cant the Church have the moral clarity to investigate itself and reliably do the right thing? One would think we should be able to, but our long, consistent history tells us we cant, and the cost of this inability is paid for by survivors and by the reputation of the Church.

Furthermore, when the church uses outside, independent attorneys, consultants and investigators who are Christians, the church is involved, but in an impartial way. Agapic-based impartiality is crucial to survivor/trauma sensitive ways of getting to the truth without re-traumatizing survivors or denying due process to the accused. It is heartbreaking to admit, but church leaders often respond to incidents of abuse with retaliation. Independent investigators will restrain retaliation, and in doing so protect those who have been abused.

The process must be open . This means that contracts with investigators and investigative methods must be shared with survivors. This assures them that the scope of the investigation is thorough; it is not limited by budget or an artificial timeline; it is safe; and it will not simply re-traumatize survivors in an effort to protect the Church.

. This means that contracts with investigators and investigative methods must be shared with survivors. This assures them that the scope of the investigation is thorough; it is not limited by budget or an artificial timeline; it is safe; and it will not simply re-traumatize survivors in an effort to protect the Church. The investigative report must be made available to survivors and all others with the need to know . This ensures the report is not stuffed into a drawer by a judicatory leader, thereby silencing the survivor and protecting the perpetrator. Controlling information is a key tactic of church cover-up.

. This ensures the report is not stuffed into a drawer by a judicatory leader, thereby silencing the survivor and protecting the perpetrator. Controlling information is a key tactic of church cover-up. Trauma-informed pastoral care must be offered to survivors and paid for by the church/judicatory/denomination. This should be automatic. But as I mentioned earlier, it is not commonly done because attorneys and PR departments frown upon it. It may imply responsibility or guilt or cause insurance issues. Fair enough. But we must encourage churches to think this through based not on fear and protectionism but on doing whatever we can to care for the traumatized. Think it through using the vision of the Parable of the Good Samaritan. With that in view, no argument for withholding healing from survivors makes any moral or spiritual sense. Get yes oriented. Exercise your empathy muscle. Get creative. Find a way.

Many survivors never come forward. They are rightfully concerned that the Church will protect those in power: pastors, priests, professors, and denominational leaders. Survivors who fight these inner voices and find the courage to come forward are simply asking, Who cares for us?

When a survivor reveals their courage by telling a person in power what happened to them, they are more afraid than most of us can imagine. In that moment, they simply want to hear:

I am sorry

You did not deserve this

This is not your fault

You are treasured of God and my sister/brother in Christ

I see you

I hear you

I take your report seriously

In taking the next steps, I will help protect you from the perpetrator(s)

Love Protects the Process for the Accused.

We face a necessary controversy in the Church as we come to grips with how to simultaneously center survivors and ensure due process for the accused. This can be done. It simply requires visionan agapic visionfor the good of the whole Church. Survivor-centered is not an invitation to be unrighteous to the accused. Nor is it axiomatic that centering victims will do so. Survivor-centered means something like this: the Church, through its institutional power, will no longer be able to retraumatize victims in an effort to protect its leaders and itself. It is a holy and agape-based decision to put survivors in the center of any process, not cast aside as an infuriating annoyance.

With that point clear, the church must also not assume guilt on the part of those who have not yet had the benefit of an investigation and the best practices of due process embedded in their particular ecclesial system. Survivors value due process too. They are not looking to harm others. Survivors know that if they were accused of a crime or wrongdoing, they would want due process for themselves. They are simply looking for inclusion in a safe and fair process.

In some quarters, there is concern that centering survivors is unfair to the accused. This is not true. An agapic vision has at its heart truth, fairness, and a strong will to do good for the whole community: survivor; accused; the churches with whom they belong; denominations; and the one, holy, catholic church.

I suggest these agape-based practices for the accused.

Value and seek out witnesses (Deut. 17:16; 19:15; 1 Timothy 5:19; 2 Corinthians 13:1), both those who prove guilt and those who prove innocence. We must be careful in applying the passages from 2 Corinthians and 1 Timothy. Many times, there are no witnesses to abusive acts, as it happens in carefully curated privacy. We keep the spirit of the passage by letting other forms of evidence (text threads, CCTV, emails) become the functional equivalent of witnesses. In addition, we must never use Matthew 18:6 as a rationale to send a survivor back to the person who abused them for a one-on-one conversation.

Ask the investigator and ecclesial court to do both examination and cross-examination (Proverbs 6:16-19).

Make the investigation an impartial quest for truth and justice, neither favoring the poor nor deferring to the great, but judging the situation in righteousness (Leviticus 19:15).

Care for the accused. The pastor and his or her family need to be assured that due process, integrity, and truthfulness are shaping the investigation. This is a difficult time for them and for their church.[7]

Get help. Institutions with well-ordered desires, those who want to learn, grow and do better than the Church has done for the last few generations, can start to do so by getting outside counsel. Hiring a consultant is the best way to ensure an agapic-based process that centers survivors and is simultaneously righteous to the accused. I can think of no one better than Rachael Denhollander. She has been a big help to me, and I wish the whole Church could receive the benefit of her godliness, intelligence, and tenacity to do what is right for all parties.

The Most Excellent Way

It is rare that the scriptures make bold, clear definitive statements. But Pauls thought on love does just that:

And now I will show you the most excellent way

The greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 12:31, 13:13

Love, more than any other construct or ideology, is the basis for caring for survivors. The practice of love never fails. Its practice, concerning church-based abuse, boils down to one question:

Regarding victim-survivors:What does love require?

Regarding the accused:What does love require?

Ive handled countless cases of clergy misconduct and leadership malpractice. I know it gets messy. I realize we can feel lost in conflicting reports and evidence. I know we often fear that important relationships are going to be ruined. Someone is always going to hate us no matter what we decide and do.

In the middle of all this, turn to the most excellent, the greatest way. Agapic love is not squishy sentimentality. It is a beacon of light leading to concrete practices for discovering truth and enabling loving care.

[1] Each form of church government, Episcopal, Presbyterian and Congregational, will have to work issues of due process into their regulations for dealing with charges against clergy.

[2] https://www.npr.org/2021/10/05/1043302348/france-catholic-church-sexual-abuse-report-children

[3] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/9/25/catholic-church-apologises-to-canadas-indigenous-over-abuses

[4] https://www.abuselawsuit.com/church-sex-abuse/

[5] https://www.houstonchronicle.com/local/investigations/abuse-of-faith/

[6] https://www.christianitytoday.com/scot-mcknight/2021/july/survivor-sensitive-approach-to-allegations.html

[7] https://www.christianitytoday.com/scot-mcknight/2021/july/survivor-sensitive-approach-to-allegations.html
Ambassador Ivo Sieber (R) and Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son at the ceremony to handover the Geneva Conference Room to the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam in November 2021 Reporter: In 2021, the world was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the relationship between Vietnam and Switzerland was still carried out in a practical and effective manner, with the highlight event being the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two countries and the mutual visits of the two countries senior leaders. In your opinion, how meaningful are these events in promoting relations between the two countries in the coming time?

Ambassador Ivo Sieber: The last year offered multiple opportunities to strengthen diplomatic ties and enhance the dynamic cooperation between our two countries despite the COVID-19 related complexities. I feel fortunate and I am proud that we were able to accomplish key milestones during our jubilee year.

The two high-level visits, which took place both in Switzerland and Vietnam - the visit of Swiss Vice-President Ignazio Cassis to Hanoi in early August, and then the visit of President Nguyen Xuan Phuc to Berne in late November 2021  were both successful and very valuable. They allowed decision-makers from our two countries to deepen the friendship and trustful relationship we share and to exchange directly, with the aim of opening new paths for enhanced cooperation and putting obstacles aside.

The jubilee year also allowed us to look back on a three decade long development and cooperation partnership between Switzerland and Vietnam. Over the course of the past 30 years, this partnership has resulted in more than USD600 million of grant money invested into Vietnams development efforts. The strength of this partnership was further underscored by the launch of the new 4-year program cycle 2021-2024. This cycle is again managed by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO and focuses on strengthening the competitiveness of the Vietnamese private sector, with special attention on small and medium sized enterprises and the creation of an innovative business environment.

In August 2021, at the height of the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Vietnam, Switzerland sent humanitarian assistance worth CHF5 million (VND126 billion)  a sign of solidarity in the common fight against the pandemic.

In November 2021, I participated in the inauguration and hand-over to the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV) of the Geneva Conference Room. Personally, I am very attached to this conference room, which will stay as a reminder of our diplomatic anniversary. But even more importantly, it will live on, as it will be used by a large range of students, academics, dignitaries and the public from Vietnam and abroad. I feel grateful to the DAV for the excellent collaboration. I strongly believe that the so-called Geneva spirit, with its hallmark of fostering constructive problem-solving and peaceful inclusive discussions, has now found its ideal home here in Vietnam.

Jointly with our Vietnamese friends, we took advantage of this special year to the best extent possible: We not only evoked our rich common history and strong partnership. We also looked forward to explore where we can enter new paths and work together even better in addressing todays key challenges, from maintaining peace in the world to effectively responding to pandemic- and climate change-related challenges.

Reporter: In recent years, Vietnam has been increasing its participation in multilateral foreign affairs and for the second time became a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, for the 2020-2021 term. How do you assess Vietnam's role in multilateral and international mechanisms?

Ambassador Ivo Sieber: During its most recent 2020 - 2021 membership in the UN Security Council, Vietnam illustrated its readiness and dedication as a responsible and committed member of the global community of nations. Vietnams multilateral engagement in areas such as peace-keeping, sustainable development, and the promotion of international law is important and Vietnams most recent statements in the context of the COP 26 of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change underscore its commitment.

There is also an extensive cooperation between Switzerland and Vietnam, for example on issues such as Women Peace and Security or the promotion of humanitarian law. This cooperation extends beyond the UN also in regional multilateral fora such as ASEAN, where Switzerland was admitted as a Sectoral Dialog Partner in 2016.

Reporter: In 2022, Switzerland will run for the position of a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the term 2023-2024. What are the priorities that Switzerland offers in this position?

Ambassador Ivo Sieber: As a neutral and independent country, Switzerland builds bridges to foster consensus. Known for its long humanitarian tradition, promoting international law, human rights, the protection of civilians and sustainable development, Switzerland is committed to a strong and effective multilateral system, and places human dignity and security at the center of all its actions. To this end, Switzerland emphasizes dialogue and partnership. Hosting the UNs European headquarters in Geneva since the organizations inception further underscores my countrys commitment to the UN and its noble mission.

If elected to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the period 2023-2024 this June, Switzerland will act as a Plus for Peace. The white cross in our national flag symbolizes this plus. The plus stands for a strong dedication to themes such as international law and sustainable development, human rights, innovation, peace and humanity.

Switzerlands candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UNSC also opens up further possibilities for the cooperation with Vietnam towards strengthening multilateralism and the respect of international law.

Reporter: As a diplomatic bridge between Vietnam and Switzerland, in 2022, what do you plan to do to continue promoting the two countries' relations?

Ambassador Ivo Sieber: Nowadays, economic interactions, i.e. trade and investment, are the biggest driver of our cooperation. There is major potential to be leveraged here: within ASEAN, Switzerland ranks as the 9th most important foreign investor, but in Vietnam we are at the 19th position only. The fact that our economic cooperation was a key topic discussed both during Vice-President Cassis August-meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and the recent discussions between our two Presidents in Bern underlines our strong economic partnership. Moreover, on both occasions, the Swiss and Vietnamese leaders reiterated their willingness for an early conclusion of the negotiations for a progressive free trade agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA - including Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway and Switzerland). Such an agreement would further bolster the potential for increased bilateral economic cooperation, offering new export opportunities for businesses on both sides and favoring foreign direct investments in Vietnam.

Other areas of cooperation that Switzerland and Vietnam will focus on include development, education, research, science and innovation. This comprises the already mentioned new SECO cooperation strategy supporting Vietnams sustainable and inclusive economic development, which also supports efforts to reach the net-zero carbon emissions target, as well as Vietnams undertakings to adapt to climate change.

From 2021 onwards, the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and Vietnams National Foundation for Science and Technology Development (NAFOSTED) for the first time jointly supports 10 teams of Swiss and Vietnamese researchers carrying out projects in a vast range of disciplines. There is interest from the Swiss side to expand our cooperation in the field or research and education even more.

Reporter: On the occasion of the New Year 2022, what message would you like to send to readers of the Communist Party of Vietnam Online Newspaper?

Ambassador Ivo Sieber: Every Tet marks a new beginning. Celebrating my third Tet here in Vietnam, I very much appreciate the joyful atmosphere around the festive season, when families and friends come together to show respect to their ancestors, to celebrate, to reflect on the closing year and to welcome the New Year. I sincerely hope and wish that the Year of the Tiger will bring your readers and all the people in Vietnam the best of health, happiness, prosperity and success! Chuc mung nam moi!

Reporter: Thank you very much!
China firmly opposes the United States' generalization of the concept of national security, its abuse of state power and its unreasonable suppression of Chinese enterprises in the absence of facts, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said in a statement on Thursday, as reported by Xinhua news agency. The Ministry made the statement in response to the US Federal Communications Commission's decision to revoke China Unicom Americas' authority to provide telecom services in the United States late last month, according to Xinhua news agency. Beijing has accused the US of generalizing the concept of national, security and malicious suppression of Chinese Telecom operators. This comes after the US Federal Communications Commission on Thursday revoked telecom giant China Unicom America's authority to provide services in the US over national security concerns, as reported by Xinhua news agency. The Federal Communications Commission said it found that the company's subsidiary, China Unicom Americas was subject to exploitation, influence and control by the Chinese government and could be required to comply with requests from Beijing. Earlier in March last year, the Commission found that China Unicom had failed to dispel serious concerns regarding the retention of its authority to provide telecommunications service in the US. (ANI)
The Minority in Parliament has lambasted the government over what it says are attempts to use intimidating and scaremongering tactics in its attempts to pass the Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy).

It follows moves this week by some officials of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to secure an injunction against the embattled Assin North NDC MP, Hon. James Gyakye Quayson from holding himself out as the lawfully-elected Member of Parliament of Assin North.

In a press release from the Minority, it says this latest act of desperation which has the tacit endorsement of the Attorney General and Minister for Justice comes at a time an Appeal and an Application for Stay of Execution filed against the Cape Coast High Courts annulment of the 2020 Assin North Parliamentary Election is still pending before the Court of Appeal.

The Minority is of the view that the move to stop Hon. James Gyakye Quayson from holding himself as Assin North MP is just to reduce the number of NDC MPs in Parliament so the Majority can finally approve the E-Levy with their numerical strength.

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has become aware of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia autocratic regimes resort to intimidation and scaremongering in their DESPERATE attempt to pass the obnoxious E-levy which is currently before Parliament.

Having failed several times to pass the much-loathed E-levy in the wake of the nationalistic resistance of the gallant 137 NDC Members of Parliament, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia Government has now resorted to crude and disgraceful tactics to reduce the numbers of NDC MPS in the august house of Parliament, hoping that would help the regime to railroad the E-levy into law, part of the Minority statement signed by its Leader Mr. Haruna Iddrisu reads.

The Minority Caucus insists that they are unfazed and will not be browbeaten by these cowardly acts of intimidation by a government that is on borrowed time; a government whose only interest is creating new opportunities to loot and share the meager resources of Ghana even as Ghanaians groan under the yoke of hardships.

We shall continue with all our might to resist the despotic Akufo-Addo/Bawumia regime and their use of crude Machiavellian tactics to reduce our numbers in Parliament in order to pass the obnoxious E-levy, the statement adds.

Read the full statement from the Minority below:

PRESS STATEMENT BY HON. HARUNA IDDRISU, MINORITY LEADER, ON BEHALF OF THE MINORITY CAUCUS IN PARLIAMENT ON THE ATTEMPTS BEING MADE BY GOVERNMENT TO REDUCE ITS NUMBERS TO PAVE THE WAY FOR THE PASSAGE OF THE OBNOXIOUS E-LEVY

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has become aware of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia autocratic regimes resort to intimidation and scaremongering in their DESPERATE attempt to pass the obnoxious E-levy which is currently before Parliament.

Having failed several times to pass the much loathed E-levy in the wake of the nationalistic resistance of the gallant 137 NDC Members of Parliament, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia Government has now resorted to crude and disgraceful tactics to reduce the numbers of NDC MPS in the august house of Parliament, hoping that would help the regime to railroad the E-levy into law.

In what could be described as a sickening display of desperation by a sitting Government to push an undesirable, punitive and counter-productive tax measure down the throat of Ghanaians, the Akufo-Addo Government acting through its devious agent, notably Frank Davies has sought to injunct the Assin North NDC MP, Hon. James Gyakye Quayson from holding himself out as the lawfully-elected Member of Parliament for the good people of Assin North.

This latest act of desperation which has the active endorsement of the Attorney General and Minister for Justice comes at a time an Appeal and an Application for Stay of Execution filed against the Cape Coast High Courts annulment of the 2020 Assin North Parliamentary Election is still pending before the Court of Appeal.

As though the above DESPERATE machinations were not enough, upon the instructions of President Akufo-Addo and the devious Attorney General and Minister for Injustice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, the Police Administration has called one of the Lawyers who represented the Hon. James Quayson in respect of the Assin North Parliamentary election petition, inviting him to make the Hon. Quayson available for service of a criminal charge on him for prosecution. Our information indicates that the said charge borders on an allegation that Hon. Quayson committed a crime by signing a declaration to the Electoral Commission to the effect that he was qualified to stand for election as an MP.

It must be placed on record that the legal propriety of the said declaration made by Hon. James Quayson was challenged at the time he submitted same to the Electoral Commission, whereupon the EC invited Hon. James Quayson and his detractors for an investigation of the said complaint. The Electoral Commission subsequently determined the matter in favour of Hon. James Quayson after he had adduced sufficient evidence to satisfy the Electoral Commission that he was very much qualified to stand for election, whereupon he was cleared to contest the election. In the light of these facts, how can it be properly contended that Hon. James Quayson criminally used a false declaration to deceive the Electoral Commission in order to stand for the said election?

Secondly, the issue of whether or not, per article 94(2)(a) of the 1992 Constitution, Hon. James Quayson was qualified to stand as an MP, is a question of law pending before the Court of Appeal, Cape Coast, as well as the Supreme Court in various suits. Also, an application for Stay of Execution of the Cape Coast High Courts annulment of the 2020 Assin North Parliamentary Election filed by Hon. Quayson is still pending before the Court of Appeal. Under the circumstances, the lawful and reasonable thing for the Ghana Police Service, the ruling NPP government and their surrogates to do is to abide the decision of the Court of Appeal on these processes. Any attempt by the Police to prosecute Hon. James Quayson on the conclusion or assumption that he was or is not qualified to contest the 2020 parliamentary election is prejudicial of the Court of Appeal and therefore contemptuous of same.

It is obvious that the Attorney-General and the Police administration are acting in bad faith just to get an unfair advantage in Parliament for the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government in its unbridled quest to pass the obnoxious E-levy. Clearly, a statement or declaration by Hon. James Quayson at any material time that he was qualified to contest the 2020 parliamentary election is his personal application and/or conclusion of the law on the facts and does not qualify as a statement of fact to which truth or falsehood may be implied. Applications or conclusions of law may only be right or wrong, but can neither be true nor false. A legal position adjudged by the Courts to be wrong has never been a basis for prosecuting the person who asserted it. Otherwise the moment a person's position of the law on facts is dismissed by a Court of Law, that person immediately becomes liable for perjury. That, in our opinion, is ridiculous and preposterous to say the least. No wonder, the court, we are reliably informed refused an application for bench warrant to issue for the arrest of the Hon. James Gyakye Quayson.

The will of the good people of Assin North who voted for Hon. James Quayson to represent them in Parliament cannot also be subverted by these DESPERATE manoeuvers of the Akufo Addo government.

We wish to serve notice to the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government that the Minority Caucus in Parliament and its gallant 137 Members will remain resolute against the obnoxious E-levy because it is regressive, punitive and will not advance the interest and welfare of our people, especially at this time when Ghanaians are already overburdened with draconian taxes left, right and center, amidst growing economic hardships. President Akufo-Addo and his sidekick, the untruthful Alhaji Bawumia should not think that Ghanaians can be forever cowed by the imposition of an atmosphere of fear and high handedness on the nation. Tyrants do not last forever. Ultimately, the good people of Ghana will have the last laugh.

The Ghanaian people should be assured that our Members of Parliament are unfazed and will not be browbeaten by these cowardly acts of intimidation by a government that is on borrowed time; a government whose only interest is creating new opportunities to loot and share the meager resources of Ghana even as Ghanaians groan under the yoke of hardships. We shall continue with all our might to resist the despotic Akufo-Addo/Bawumia regime and their use of crude Machiavellian tactics to reduce our numbers in Parliament in order to pass the obnoxious E-levy.

Any attempt by President Akufo Addo to use the courts to tilt the balance of power in Parliament will be contrary to democratic norms, values and constitutionalism. It is our hope that the courts will rise to the occasion and preserve and protect our democratic experiment which is grossly endangered.

HON. HARUNA IDDRISU

Minority Leader




Haiti - Politic : Draft law on free access to information





Wednesday, February 2nd at the Hotel Montana (Petion-ville), in the presence in particular of Me Renan Hedouville, Protector of the Citizen, Me Hans Jacques Ludwig Joseph, Director General of the Fight against Corruption (ULCC), lawyers and representatives of various civil society organizations, the Minister of Culture Emmelie Prophete Milce participated in the workshop for the presentation and validation of the draft law on free access to information, organized by the ULCC.



The Minister of Culture welcomed the ULCC's approach to providing the country with a document that fills a need to show and a need to know, absolutely necessary for the balance of the Republic. A document that will help citizens to participate in public life and contribute to transparency.



For Me Renan Hedouville, the Protector of the Citizen, this initiative is commendable, it will help his institution to carry out this fight against corruption in Haiti. A fight upstream and downstream according to the Protector who will be responsible, if the law is adopted in the proposed terms, to prosecute on behalf of the citizen whose request has not been satisfied.



For Me Hans Jacques Ludwig Joseph, Director General of the ULCC, this text written by the experts of his institution is in line with transparency and accountability, clearly defined, promoted and supported by the Government in place..



This document of five titles, seven chapters and 43 articles, concerns both private and public actors. Me Joseph believes that in a democratic society, the people have the right to take an active part in public life.



In summary, this working document produced by the ULCC prohibits prior censorship, interference, direct or indirect pressure on any information disseminated by any means of oral, written, artistic, visual or electronic communication.



Through this draft law, access will be granted to documents of the Public Administration, by enshrining the principle of the public's right to their communication.



According to Article 3 of this draft law, public institutions and local authorities are required to disclose, by the means available, all the information they hold, subject to the provisions of Article 31, which states "Are Excluded informationd relating to :



- National defense;

- Internal and external State security;

- The privacy of individuals;

- The deliberations of the Council of Ministers and the Council of Government."



HL/ HaitiLibre


















In a major announcement, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said that the island nation will end its quarantine requirements for incoming travellers and start reopening its borders, ending tough border rules. Ardern laid-out a five-stage plan that will allow fully vaccinated New Zealanders to start traveling from Australia. The plan will commence with fully vaccinated New Zealanders in neighbouring Australia who will be allowed to return home starting from February 27, Al Jazeera reported. This plan will be extended to fully vaccinated New Zealanders elsewhere in the world from March 13. The New Zealand government envisages borders will be completely open to all by October. "We are well on our way to reaching that destination," Ardern said in Auckland of the full reopening. "But we are not quite there yet." The fully vaccinated arrivals will be allowed to self-isolate for 10 days instead of going into government quarantine hotels. As part of its strategy to eliminate the COVID-19, New Zealand imposed stringent border controls. The country has recorded nearly 17,000 cases and only 53 deaths. New Zealand last year had initiated a travel bubble with Australia, but that was ended after cases in travellers created a new cluster of COVID-19 cases. This new plan comes as the more Omicron variant has spread across New Zealand, and the border controls are coming to be seen as an obstacle to efforts to return to normality. Currently, citizens who have been allowed into the country through a lottery system are required to stay in a state-run quarantine facility for 10 days. However, the lack of spaces has left many people unable to return home. Even Ardern admitted that the border controls have become a source of inconvenience to many. "There is no question that for New Zealand, it has been one of the hardest parts of the pandemic. But the reason that it is right up there as one of the toughest things we have experienced is, in part, because large-scale loss of life is not," she said. "There was life before, and now life with COVID, but that also means there will be life after COVID too, a life where we have adapted, where we have some normality back," Ardern said.New Zealand has fully vaccinated about 93 per cent of its population over the age of 12. Ardern said the border controls had given the country the time needed to get people vaccinated and ensure the health system was not overwhelmed with patients. Under the reopening of the border, some critical foreign workers will also be allowed into the country along with citizens on March 13, with as many as 5,000 international students a month later, Al Jazeera reported. (ANI)
Jan. 28, a large crowd funneled into the Lambeau Field Atrium. Not a Packer playoff game, but rather a celebration of National School Choice Week, the last week of January every year.

Wisconsin has been a leader in School Choice, as the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program was the first private voucher program in the nation, according to the website schoolchoicewi.org. The program was started for families who felt failed by the education status quo. In brief, it offers low to moderate income parents the opportunity to consider a choice aside from the local public school and receive a payment of about $8,000 that goes directly to the school of choice, and the program is now statewide. The site also highlighted in 2020-21, student enrollment in Wisconsin School Choice programs grew to more than 55,000 students.

A Jan. 28 press release by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction stated, it has 324 private schools and school systems registered for the 2022-23 school year, an increase of 23 from the previous school year. Based on additional information provided, 162 of those schools are in the statewide program, and account for 17 of the new registrations. It is clear school choice continues to grow throughout the state of Wisconsin.

I always remind folks there are many fantastic public school teachers. Dedicated professionals assisting in the growth and development of our children as the next generation of leaders. There are school board members who seek accountability and transparency, and they should be commended. The challenge facing our nation is those voices are often being squelched in favor of a more progressive narrative.

When you see how our current Wisconsin public schools are performing, its not hard to see why the School Choice program is booming. Kids are amid their third straight stunted school year with restrictions still rampant, and there is little regard for the toll on children and their learning or emotional challenges.

Parents and community members who seek answers at school board meetings are cast as domestic terrorists, few opportunities exist for an interactive discussion with a school board, with many schools making it harder. Parents often struggle getting information from staff or administrators when they dig deeper. Those who would opine our public schools are an open book havent asked the types of questions being asked by so many.

When I was a part of the most recent Strategic Planning Committee in Baraboo, many cited the School Choice program as a scapegoat for challenges. Kids should be taught competition makes them better. Why have sporting activities against other schools? Testing ourselves against real competition.

Public schools elitists want to squelch competition. They believe they know what is best for your children, and are taken aback when someone questions the narrative. How does the opportunity for low to moderate income families to make a choice in education hurt the public schools? Theyll say choice schools lack accountability, but choice schools must leap through myriad hoops to participate, are accountable for those dollars, and if the school doesnt meet the parents expectations, the school fails. True accountability. No such level of accountability in public schools.

The answer, public school advocates will tell you, is money. All about the Benjamins. At the recent annual meeting of the Baraboo School District, the alleged cost of the 50 some-odd choice students was about $400,000out of a $40 million plus budget. Theres a far deeper discussion of how districts are impacted including reductions in variable costs, and differences in the state aid versus the voucher amount. Far less attention was paid to the millions spent on current debt payments, and the impact of unfavorable open enrollment numbers. Its easier to paint those few students as the issue than address any real concerns.

There are also substantial concerns about what materials are used in classrooms, and how it is presented. School classes held virtually gave parents a fresh look, and many are raising strident objections. Programs regarding culturally relevant teaching and pedagogy that are very prevalent bear components of the controversial concept of critical race theory. According to a teachformaerica.org guide from Jan. 6, 2019, on how to teach culturally relevant pedagogy, students are to see themselves as agents of social change and transformation. This isnt possible unless the students are taught all systems must be focused on seeing themselves only as an instrument of their race. School should focus on teaching kids how to think, not what to think. Many would rather schools focus on fundamentals.

Parents ultimately know what is best for your children, and have the opportunity make a choice in the state of Wisconsin. If the local public school isnt meeting your expectations, exercise your own school choice.
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw (right) and Palm Beach Schools Police Chief Frank Kitzerow. The sheriff's office says it will provide armed 'guardian' training for people protecting charter schools.

A security company fired by the Palm Beach County school district in 2019 for failing to properly train dozens of would-be charter school cops will nonetheless collect $75,000 of the outstanding bill under a settlement approved Wednesday.

The payment to Invictus Security in Boynton Beach ends a court battle launched as Florida schools scrambled to meet new campus security laws in the wake of the 2018 Parkland shooting.

The district had aimed to create a pool of affordable school security guards for its charter schools by paying Invictus to train them at $3,000 per person.

More: Stoneman Douglas commission takes aim at PBC school security

More: Firm that trained security guards for charter schools blames district for failure

More: Without district's help, charter schools scrambled to get cops

But before those guards could step foot on a campus, their training came under fire.

District owed Invictus $97,000 when contract ended

The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office reviewed Invictus' program and found it lacking. The lead instructor wasn't properly certified, its record keeping was shoddy and students who failed the firearms qualifications were marked as passing, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw reported.

The district owed Invictus more than $97,000 when it pulled the plug on the contract.

The company's president, Patrick Miller, laid the blame on district leaders, saying at a public meeting at the time that they signed off on a contract not understanding what state law demanded or permitted.

Chief Frank Kitzerow speaks to new Palm Beach County school district officers before swearing them in last year.

The faults of the school board should not fall on Invictus, said Miller, who said his company has been unfairly maligned and vilified in the public eye.

Then the company sued. The district filed counterclaims over alleged shortcomings in Invictus' work. All claims are dropped as part of the settlement approved by the school board Wednesday.

The driver behind the training was the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School public safety law, requirements of which were to kick in for the 2019-2020 school year.

Story continues

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The law demanded all schools, including charters, have full-time armed security daily. But in the months after the law passed it wasn't immediately clear who was in charge of making those hires or who had to pay for them  the district or the charters?

Districts across the state watched as a tug of war played out in the courts with Palm Beach County schools a named defendant in a suit filed by the Renaissance charter chain.

More school news: School board settles on name for newest elementary school with ties to old IBM campus

Masks in schools: Mask mandate for Palm Beach County school staff, visitors ends Monday

Court says districts were responsible to put armed guard on every campus

On their own, charter schools had limited options. One option was to hire off duty officers from the city or county, but at $90 to $100 an hour that was proving cost-prohibitive for most. They could contract private security officers, but many did not have the special training, called Guardian training, prescribed by the new law.

Eventually the courts ruled it was the district's responsibility to ensure armed security on charter campuses.

The Palm Beach County district, among the few with an in-house police department, aimed to meet its charter obligations by providing those schools with a less expensive pool of security guards.

The district would make it affordable by footing the bill for the 144 hours of Guardian training  the same training necessary for schools seeking to arm teachers or staff. It was training typically provided by a sheriff's office.

But in the summer of 2019, Bradshaw wasn't offering Guardian training, so district officials hired Invictus to do it at $3,000 per person.

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Weeks before school opened, the district's solution came under statewide scrutiny, with the Majory Stoneman Douglas Commission and the state's education commissioner questioning the legality of private training.

As a compromise, Bradshaw agreed to review the training and certify Invictus' work if it met with state standards. Bradshaw later concluded it fell notably short.

Bradshaw relented to statewide pressures to offer training. After severing the contract with Invictus, the district directed the charter security guards to the sheriff's office. As was practice across Florida, that training was paid for with state Guardian funds. Meanwhile, the school year began and as a stop-gap, the district hired deputies and city police to fill any gaps in charter school security.

District officials reported Thursday all charters operating within the county currently meet the law's security requirements.

@sonjaisger

sisger@pbpost.com

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Palm Beach County schools settle lawsuit over charter police training
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  The University of Tennessee at Knoxville has reinstated a professor who was acquitted of federal charges that had accused him of hiding his relationship with a Chinese university while receiving NASA research grants.

Nanotechnology expert Anming Hu returned to UT this week with tenure, his lawyer Phil Lomonaco told the Knoxville News Sentinel. He received $300,000 worth of funding to restart his research program and has been provided similar lab space.

Hu was arrested in February 2020, charged with wire fraud and making false statements. The case went to trial last June, but the jury deadlocked. Prosecutors had filed a notice that they intended to retry the case, but the judge acquitted Hu in September.

The arrest was part of a broader Justice Department crackdown under then-President Donald Trumps administration against university researchers suspected of concealing their ties to Chinese institutions.

Hu began working for UT Knoxville in 2013 and later was invited by another professor to help apply for a research grant from NASA. That grant application was not successful, but two later applications were. A 2012 law forbids NASA from collaborating with China or Chinese companies. The government has interpreted that prohibition to include Chinese universities, and Hu was a faculty member at the Beijing University of Technology in addition to his position at UT.

Prosecutors tried to show that Hu deliberately hid his position at the Chinese university when applying for the NASA-funded research grants. Hus attorney, Philip Lomonaco, argued at trial that Hu didnt think he needed to list his part-time summer job on a disclosure form and said no one at UT ever told him otherwise.

The judge ruled that, even assuming Hu intended to deceive about his affiliation with that second university, there is no evidence that Hu intended to harm NASA. The judge also noted that NASA got the research from Hu that it paid for, and there was no evidence that Hu took any money from China or had anyone in China work on the projects.

Additionally, the judge cited evidence that NASAs funding restrictions were unclear.

Lomonaco told the Knoxville News Sentinel after the acquittal that Hu wanted his job back.
At first blush, the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine doesnt look like some flaming hotbed of liberalism.

With a picturesque view of Lake Erie and scenic Presque Isle State Park  as well as campuses across the country  it bills itself as the nations largest medical school, and the most applied-to medical school in the country.

And last month, Republican Rep. Mike Kelly, who represents the Pennsylvania school on Capitol Hill, was only too happy to trumpet the fact that it was the recipient of a $2.2 million, Kelly-backed grant, that would aid healthcare workers during the pandemic.

The school is a great community partner whose staff is among those in our district who can benefit from this funding, Kelly said in a statement posted to his official website. These funds will greatly impact our front-line heroes who have given so much to our country and their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Great cause, right? So whered the money come from? If you guessed the Biden administrations $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan package, give yourself a star.

And if you guessed that Kelly opposed the COVID relief bill and dismissed it as being packed with left-wing projects, give yourself one more star. And if you guessed on top of that that the veteran Erie pol backed a failed effort to topple Bidens Pennsylvania victory in 2020, take the rest of the day off.

Kelly placed himself in the growing ranks of Republican lawmakers who have gleefully filleted Biden, opposed his agenda, and then taken credit for its benefits to the folks back home.

One of the more recent public examples, Iowa Rep. Ashley Hinson, was roundly criticized after she slammed the White Houses $1.2 trillion infrastructure law, and then boasted about the $829 million in funding for lock and dam upgrades it would bring to her constituents.

Kelly isnt even Pennsylvanias only example of this kind of GOP reality-distortion. Rep. Glenn Thompson, whose 15th District sprawls across the rural north-central part of the state, urged local fire companies last month to apply for a $46 million grant program that received an injection of pandemic relief money.

Of course, Thomson called that relieve package a wish list of the progressive wing of the Democrat party (sic) and voted against it. But the firefighter grants included in the bill? Thats the good stuff.

In an email, a spokesperson for Kelly said the northwestern Pennsylvania lawmaker wrote a letter of support for the medical school which was seeking grant funding made possible through the American Rescue Plan.

In an email, a spokesperson for Thompson said the GOP lawmaker has supported the emergency services grant program for years, and that the pandemic relief money had provided a $10 million infusion to a $46 million program already in the federal budget.

The American Rescue Plan totals $1.9 trillion, and this supplement translates to .00052 percent of the total package, senior Thompson aide Renee Gamela said. While Congressman Thompson supports the FP&S grant program, he could not support the bill in its entirety.

Kelly isnt the first to try to take credit for the product of bills that he voted against, Chris Borick, a pollster and political analyst at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, said. But apparently he thinks his constituents either dont care or dont know about the disconnect between his positions.

During an appearance in Cleveland last May, Biden played to the crowd, pulling out a list of Republican lawmakers who opposed the pandemic relief bill.

My Republican friends in Congress, not a single one of them voted for the rescue plan, Biden said, according to the Independent.

Democrats already are vowing to use these pivots against the GOP in this Novembers all-the-marbles midterm elections.

Theyre not going to find themselves wanting for material.
Former Ohio State linebacker, Dallas Gant, is heading home. Gant entered the transfer portal in mid-September and now we know where hell finish out his college career the University of Toledo.

Toledo is home for Gant. As a product of St. Johns Jesuit, Gant was ranked as the No. 10 outside linebacker in the country in 247Sports 2018 composite rankings.

Gant was expected to compete for playing time and even a starting position during summer camp after the departure of three seniors at the position from the previous season. However, injuries at inopportune times kept him out as the senior was passed and saw limited playing time.

Now Gant has an opportunity to start over in a familiar place. Heres to hoping that this young man can stay healthy and make some noise up north for the Rockets.

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An international consortium of leading migraine scientists identified more than 120 regions of the genome that are connected to risk of migraine. The groundbreaking study helps researchers better understand the biological basis of migraine and its subtypes and could speed up the search for new treatment of the condition, which affects over a billion individuals wordwide.

In the largest genome study of migraine yet, researchers have more than tripled the number of known genetic risk factors for migraine. Among the identified 123 genetic regions are two that contain target genes of recently developed migraine-specific drugs.

The study involved leading migraine research groups in Europe, Australia and the United States working together to pool genetic data from more than 873,000 study participants, 102,000 of whom had migraine.

The new findings, published on February 3, 2022 in the journal Nature Genetics, also uncovered more of the genetic architecture of migraine subtypes than was previously known.

Neurovascular mechanisms underlie migraine pathophysiology

Migraine is a very common brain disorder with over a billion patients worldwide. The exact cause of migraine is unknown, but it is believed to be a neurovascular disorder with disease mechanisms both within the brain and the blood vessels of the head.

Previous research has shown that genetic factors contribute significantly to the migraine risk. However, it has long been debated whether the two main migraine typesmigraine with aura and migraine without aurashare similar genetic background.

To gain more insight into the specific risk genes, researchers from the International Headache Genetics Consortium assembled a large genetic dataset to conduct a genome-wide association study (GWAS), looking for genetic variants that were more common in those who had migraine in general, or one of the two main migraine types.

The results demonstrated that migraine subtypes have both shared risk factors and risk factors that appear specific to one subtype. The analyses highlighted three risk variants that appear specific to migraine with aura and two that appear specific to migraine without aura.

"In addition to implicating tens of new regions of the genome for more targeted investigation, our study provides the first meaningful opportunity to evaluate shared and distinct genetic components in the two main migraine subtypes," said the first author of the study, Heidi Hautakangas from the Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki.

Furthermore, the results supported the concept that migraine is brought about by both neuronal and vascular genetic factors, strengthening the view that migraine truly is a neurovascular disorder.

Potential to point to new therapies against migraine

As migraine is globally the second largest contributor to years lived with disability, there is clearly a large need for new treatments.

A particularly interesting finding was the identification of genomic risk regions containing genes that encode targets for recently developed migraine-specific therapeutics.

One of the newly identified regions contains genes (CALCA/CALCB) encoding calcitonin gene-related peptide, a molecule involved in migraine attacks and blocked by the recently introduced CGRP inhibitor migraine medications. Another risk region covers the HTR1F gene encoding serotonin 1F receptor, also a target for new migraine-specific medications.

Dr. Matti Pirinen, a group leader from the Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki, who led the study, commented that "these two new associations near genes that are already targeted by effective migraine drugs suggest that there could be other potential drug targets among the new genomic regions, and provide a clear rationale for future genetic studies with even larger sample sizes."

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More information: Matti Pirinen, Genome-wide analysis of 102,084 migraine cases identifies 123 risk loci and subtype-specific risk alleles, Nature Genetics (2022). www.nature.com/articles/s41588-021-00990-0 Journal information: Nature Genetics Matti Pirinen, Genome-wide analysis of 102,084 migraine cases identifies 123 risk loci and subtype-specific risk alleles,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41588-021-00990-0
Pakistan per person debt rises to nearly 50 per cent according to the Fiscal Policy statement 2021-22 emphasising it is a fragile economy. The Ministry of Finance has submitted a self-contradictory fiscal policy statement in the National Assembly that also hid critical information from legislators, undermining the spirit of the law that requires an objective explanation of fiscal indicators, as noted by Express Tribune. The Fiscal Policy Statement 2021-22 also showed that the per-person debt burden increased to Rs 179,070 at the end of the last fiscal year - an additional liability of Rs 58,971 or 49 per cent on every citizen in three years since Prime Minister Imran Khan assumed office. The statement has been prepared by the budget wing of the Ministry of Finance to comply with the requirement of the Fiscal Responsibility and Debt Limitation Act of 2005. But the Ministry severely compromised transparency, objectivity and professionalism in the policy statement, also committing factual errors. On January 20, the National Accounts Committee approved the rebasing of the economy to the fiscal year 2015-16 from the old base of 2005-06 to incorporate changes in the structure of the economy. This expanded the size of the economy in 2020-21 to Rs55.5 trillion, up from the old base of Rs47.7 trillion. The increase in the size of the economy showed improvement in indicators like the budget deficit, debt-to-GDP ratio, but it further deteriorated the tax and revenue-to-GDP ratios, as analyzed by Express Tribune. The Ministry of Finance used both the old gross domestic product (GDP) figure and the new one to explain the numbers as it deemed appropriate without caring for the objectivity, showed the document. It also used the new GDP figure without formal approval of the rebasing of the economy by the governing council of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). On the very next page, the budget wing used the old GDP size to wrongly prove a point that the budget deficit would fall further to 6.3 per cent of GDP during the fiscal year 2021-22, from 7.1 per cent in 2020-2, according to Express Tribune. "In the fiscal sector, the government plans to continue with the adjustment measures, which are projected to reduce the deficit to 6.3 per cent of GDP during the fiscal year 2021-22, from 7.1 per cent in 2020-21," said the fiscal policy statement. The Fiscal Policy Statement showed that the total public debt was recorded at Rs39.9 trillion at the end of June 2021. Resultantly, the public "debt per capita stood at Rs179,070 at end-June 2021". as noted by Express Tribune. (ANI)
In a veiled attack at the BJP-led Central government, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi while laying the foundation stone of 'Amar Jawan Jyoti' in Chhattisgarh's Raipur on Thursday said that India is a bouquet of different ideologies, cultures, languages but "they want a single ideology to rule" the country. Addressing the event in Raipur today, Gandhi said, "Hindustan is a bouquet having different ideologies, cultures, languages but they want a single ideology to rule over it but I've said yesterday in Parliament that we'll not let it happen. We will show BJP the true 'Hindustan" He took a jibe at Bharatiya Janata Party and stated "we will show BJP the true 'Hindustan'. Further, the Wayanad MP claimed that BJP is dividing the country into two nations, that is, one with select billionaires which include 100-500 people and the second with crores of poor. "They (BJP) think India's poor are scared, but they aren't scared of anyone. Development is not any party's gift but the efforts of poor, farmers," he added. Earlier in the day, Gandhi also released the first instalment of 'Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhumiheen Krishi Mazduur Yojana' in the state. Under this scheme, the Chhattisgarh government will give annual financial aid of Rs 6,000 to rural landless families. The registration for the scheme was started last year in September. He also attended the foundation laying ceremony of a 'Sevagram' being built in Nava Raipur during his visit to the state. (ANI)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) applauds the 13th anniversary of the International Court of Justice's decision in The Hague (ICJ) in the case concerning maritime delimitation in the Black Sea on February 3, "a notable diplomatic success for Romania".

"This legal process, which took place over more than four years, is a notable diplomatic success for Romania, with our country receiving 9,700 square kilometers of continental shelf and exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea, namely almost 80 percent of the surface disputed at the ICJ, The ICJ ruling of February 3, 2009 represented for Romania the first and only extension of sovereign jurisdiction and sovereign rights of our country after the Greater Union of 1918. It was also the first ruling in the history of the International Court of Justice pronounced unanimously by the ICJ judges, after more than 40 years in which this complex bilateral political dispute could not be resolved through bilateral negotiations," reads a MAE press release sent on Thursday to AGERPRES.

According to the cited source, the decision has become a point of reference for the peaceful settlement of international disputes in the field of maritime delimitations, being cited over time in the jurisprudence of the ICJ and other international courts, as well as in the doctrine of international law.

Romania's team in The Hague trial was led, during its duration (2004-2009) by the current Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bogdan Aurescu, as Romania's Agent before the International Court of Justice. The Romanian team included diplomats and experts from the MAE, as well as specialists from the Ministry of National Defense and the National Agency for Mineral Resources. In total, the team consisted of 20 members, including three foreign advisers, experts in international law, including Australian professor James Crawford, a renowned specialist in international law, who died on 31 May 2021, Agerpres.ro informs.

"Romania accepted the mandatory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice in 2015 and has, over time, made sustained efforts to promote the jurisdiction of the ICJ, including through an international campaign, that I had the initiative to start in 2021, whereby we encourage as many states as possible to follow our example. Peaceful dispute resolution is the only way allowed by international law, which provides tools, resources and answers to all states that, even when faced with complex situations, put the common good, stability, security and democratic values above all else," the head of the Romanian diplomacy states, as cited in the release.

Bogdan Aurescu launched, on November 3, 2021, in New York, the Declaration on the promotion of the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice, with the support of a core group of states composed of Switzerland, Japan, Liechtenstein, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Spain and Poland. Romania invited all UN member states to endorse the Declaration, by sending a verbal note to the Permanent Mission of Romania to New York, being the "depository" of the initiative on behalf of the core group.

To date, the Declaration has been endorsed by 30 states in all geographical areas.
A Virginia Senate panel has rejected former coal-lobbyist and Trump administration Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) head Andrew Wheeler from serving in the states top environmental post.

Wheeler was first nominated to serve as the states secretary of natural resources by new Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin in early January, as Huffpost reported at the time. The move prompted an immediate outcry from conservation groups and state Democrats, who control the Senate panel that rejected his nomination.

Today, Democrats delivered another huge blow to Governor Youngkin and his efforts to implement his dangerous agenda by taking the first steps to reject his far-right, Trump-selected Cabinet nominee for Secretary of Natural Resources, party spokesperson Gianni Snidle said, as The Virginian-Pilot reported.

The panel rejected Wheeler along party lines with a nine to six vote. Specifically, they removed Wheelers name from a list of Youngkins Cabinet picks, while then forwarding a resolution approving the rest of the Cabinet.

This doesnt mean Wheeler couldnt still clinch the nomination, however. All it would take is one Democrat joining with Republicans to return his name to the resolution. Democrat Joe Morrissey, who does not sit on the committee, had previously said he would consider supporting Wheeler for the position, but has not commented on the latest development. Youngkin could also give Wheeler a different position in the administration that does not require Senate approval, The Washington Post explained.

Wheeler served as EPA administrator under former President Donald Trump following the resignation of Scott Pruitt. As such, he spearheaded efforts to roll back several environmental regulations, including one limiting the chemicals allowed in coal plant wastewater and another controlling industrial air pollution.

His nomination was opposed by more than 150 EPA employees, dozens of environmental groups and EPA staff union AFGE Council 238, all of which sent letters to the Senate, as HuffPost reported further. More than 130 of Wheelers former colleagues, both at the EPA and other organizations, did write a counter letter defending him.

A spokesperson for Youngkin also maintained support for the nomination after the committee decision.

Andrew Wheeler is a highly qualified individual with an extensive background on natural resources and issues critically important to Virginians, Youngkin spokeswoman Macaulay Porter said Tuesday, as The Washington Post reported. The governor is disappointed that the committee put partisan politics over the selection of an experienced public servant who would prioritize cleaning up the Chesapeake Bay and James River.

However, environmental groups argued that Wheeler was an extreme choice.

As head of EPA under former President Trump, Wheeler did nothing more than cater to corporate polluter interests time and time again, putting their welfare ahead of our environment and Americans health, Michael Town, executive director of the Virginia League of Conservation Voters, said in a statement when the nomination was first announced, as HuffPost reported. This is hands down the most extreme nomination for an environmental post in Virginias history and the absolute worst pick that the Governor-elect could make.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Leon Neal/Getty Images

On Monday, Boris Johnson claimed that crime figures had been cut by 14%.

The UK Statistics Authority said that was "misleading" and that total crime figures were up 14%.

A cut of 14% was only true if fraud and computer misuse figures were excluded.

Boris Johnson's claim in Parliament that crime figures had been cut by 14% was "misleading", the chair of the UK Statistics Authority said.

Johnson said in a debate Monday, while responding to questions on the official report into parties held at Downing Street, that crime figures had been cut by 14%.

The Home Office had earlier made the same claim in a statement.

Johnson told MPs from the despatch box: "What we are actually doing is cutting crime by 14% and putting 20,000 more police on the streets."

But the chair of the UK Statistics Authority, Sir David Norgrove, has said this claim is misleading.

A 14% drop in crime can be found in the change between September 2019 and September 2021, but only if fraud and computer misuse are excluded from the figures. The watchdog complained that "the Prime Minister did not make that clear".

"If fraud and computer misuse are counted in total crime as they should be", the watchdog says, "total crime in fact increased by 14%" in that period.

Alistair Carmichael MP, the Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesperson, told Insider: "This is a damning verdict from the official watchdog. Yet more distortions from Boris Johnson and his Cabinet to play down the extent of crime.

"When the Government's record on crime is so bad that both the Prime Minister and Home Secretary feel the need to fiddle the figures, it is clear we need a new approach.

"The Prime Minister must come before Parliament to apologise for his latest lie and set the record straight."

Under the Ministerial Code, ministers who "knowingly" mislead the House of Commons are expected to resign.

Insider has contacted Downing Street for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
(Tribune News Service)  About 80 members of the Maine National Guard will begin a year-long deployment in Poland this spring.

The 120th Regional Support Group, one of two brigade-level units in Maine, will conduct base support operations for American allies in Europe as part of the U.S. European Command's Operation Atlantic Resolve. That resolve is a "deterrent initiative" with multi-national training events in Bulgaria, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Romania.

The deployment was announced Wednesday, the same day President Biden revealed he was sending 3,000 U.S. troops to reinforce NATO allies in Eastern Europe, includng to Romania and Poland, which share Ukraine's western border. Military officials say Russia has amassed 100,000 troops along Ukraine's eastern border.

However, Maj. Carl Lamb, a guard spokesman, said the Maine National Guard's deployment is unrelated to Biden's announcement.

"While Atlantic Resolve clearly exists as a deterring factor, it has been an ongoing mission since 2014 and our participation in the exercise is separate from other news that has come out of the Dept. of Defense recently," Lamb said in an email.

According to a news release, Operation Atlantic Resolve is a critical component of the Department of Defense's European Deterrence Initiative. Its mission is to "build readiness, increase interoperability and enhance bonds between ally and partner militaries with multi-national training events."

U.S.-based units have been supporting the resolve since 2014, including Maine's 286th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, which returned from a tour in February 2020.

"Maine soldiers continue to support U.S. strategic interests around the world alongside our active duty counterparts," Brig. Gen. Dean Preston, land component commander, said in a written statement.

Lt. Col. Amy Cartmell, deputy commander of the 120th, said in a statement that the unit is well poised to carry out the mission, and she emphasized the unit's strength as citizen soldiers with varied backgrounds as managers and supply distribution professionals, educators, engineers and more.

"Our team has been training hard," she said. "We have gleaned a wealth of knowledge from the experiences of previously assigned units  to include our own, the 286th  combined with staff analysis of the mission requirements. We strive to be students of current events in Poland and other partner nations and look forward to learning more about and interacting with their cultures and communities."

(c)2022 the Portland Press Herald (Portland, Maine)

Visit the Portland Press Herald (Portland, Maine) at www.pressherald.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The World Bank and the Vatican are criticizing Lebanons rulers for plundering the countrys resources and abusing their positions of power. The World Bank recently reported that government revenues in Lebanon have collapsed by almost 50%, registering less than a 7% share of the countrys GDP in 2021one of the lowest ratios in the world after Somalia and Yemen. While a visiting Vatican envoy tells Lebanese leaders they must stop using Lebanon and the Middle East for foreign interests ahead of talks for a planned papal visit.

The World Bank has accused Lebanons political rulers and the financial elite of orchestrating a deliberate depression by exploiting their grip on economic resources and threatening the country's long-term stability and social peace." It says meager amounts of foreign aid and the central banks resources have been sapped. Meanwhile, the Lebanese currency has lost more than 90% of its value since 2019, plunging most Lebanese below the poverty line.

"Over two years into the financial crisis, Lebanon has yet to identify, least of all embark upon, a credible path toward economic and financial recovery," said Saroj Kumar Jha, the World Bank's near east regional director.

The Vatican has also weighed in. Visiting Archbishop Paul Gallagher said that Pope Francis is very concerned and would like to visit Lebanon soon.

Gallagher, the Vatican secretary for relations with states, criticized the countrys elite, calling for an end to the few profiting off the suffering of many." "The Lebanese people must be given the opportunity to be the architects for a better future in their land without undue interference," the archbishop said, after meeting President Michel Aoun, a Christian ally to Iran-backed Hezbollah.

Joseph Bahout heads the Issam Fares Institute at the American University of Beirut. He told VOA Lebanons rulers are making the following proposal to the International Monetary Fund to secure a bailout: Of the $70 billion of losses Lebanon has incurred, 70% will be borne by the individual depositors. The banks will take 16% and the state will bear the rest. The basic rule worldwide, Bahout says, is the state first takes responsibility, then the banks and lastly the depositors.

What is happening is not the result of certain accidents or economic misfortunes, but it is a deliberate act of leading the country to where it is. This is what I think the World Bank and the Vatican envoy are pointing out. Instead of trying to solve the crisis for the benefit of the majority, the political and financial oligarchy is only taking care of its own interest at the expense of the people, said Bahout.

Its unclear how the International Monetary Fund would respond to this proposal as talks continue. But to date, politicians have struggled to implement several financial and accountability reforms the IMF requested months ago, including forensic audits of the central bank and state institutions and a capital controls law.

The World Bank reported that "worryingly, key public and private actors continue to resist recognition of these losses, perpetuating the zombie-like state of the economy."

Archbishop Gallagher offered the Vatican as a possible host for a dialogue between Lebanese political actors, if it is requested by all parties involved. But he also told President Aoun that any weakening of (the) Christian presence would destroy the internal balance and Lebanese identity.

Gallagher said the Vaticans position was that reforms, along with the support of the international community, are necessary to help Lebanon preserve its own identity as an example of peaceful coexistence and brotherhood between different religions.
TRENTON  Gov. Phil Murphy on Thursday nominated his former chief counsel as the 62nd state attorney general, saying independence as the states top law enforcement official is crucial and the job must be absolutely free of politics.

To be sure, the attorney general is not the governors lawyer but the peoples lawyer, Murphy said, entrusted to represent all New Jerseyans  our values and our laws.

Matt Platkin, 35, of Montclair, Essex County, was a volunteer on Murphys first campaign for governor and later a staff member, Murphy said, before joining his team as chief counsel from 2018 to 2020.

Platkin was a fixture at Murphys regular news conferences during the COVID-19 pandemic and regularly fielded questions related to executive orders aimed at curbing the effects of the virus.

He also was a lead negotiator for the governor for three annual budget bills and oversaw the vast appointment and nominations apparatus in the Governors Office. New Jerseys governor is among the most powerful in the country because the state constitution provides for the executive to appoint many offices in the state, including county prosecutors and Superior Court judges.

But Platkins time as chief counsel included criticisms over his and the administrations handling of sexual assault charges brought by campaign volunteer and state worker Katie Brennan against another campaign and state worker. In 2019, then state Senate President Steve Sweeney called for Platkin to resign over that case, and a report from a legislative investigation found poor legal advice led to the mishandling.

Murphy counsel says he didn't tell governor of assault claim TRENTON  Gov. Phil Murphys top attorney said Friday that he didnt relay to him a state of

Brennan settled her lawsuit against the state and Murphys campaign for $1 million in 2020 and took a job with the administration of former Mayor Bill de Blasio in New York City.

Platkins nomination must be confirmed by the state Senate, but he will assume the role of acting attorney general on Valentines Day.

Neither Murphy nor Platkin took questions after the announcement.

The appointment of a new Attorney General is an incredible opportunity for New Jersey to emerge as a national leader on issues of drug policy, said Jenna Mellor, executive director of the New Jersey Harm Reduction Coalition. We ... look forward to working with (Murphy) and his Attorney General nominee, Matt Platkin, on treating drug use as a public health issue and not a criminal one.

Platkin left the Murphy administration in 2020 to take a post at the firm Lowenstein Sandler, where he handled white-collar cases and business disputes.

Platkin said his first focus will be keeping New Jerseyans safe as he leads an 8,000-person department, by bringing all necessary resources to bear to prevent violent crime.

Our view: Murphy administration sex-assault case challenges justice, media Multiple investigations have begun into the hiring of a senior official by Gov. Phil Murphy

Most involves firearms, Platkin said. We will hold accountable those who foster it (gun violence) in communities.

Platkin also vowed to protect the civil rights of all residents and work to repair broken trust between law enforcement and communities.

He also spoke of the need to relieve the often overwhelming burden placed on police, who have been tasked with being addiction and mental health counselors as well as law enforcement officers.

Andrew Bruck has been acting attorney general since Gurbir Grewal, Murphys first attorney general, resigned in 2021 to become director of the Enforcement Division at the federal Securities and Exchange Commission.

Platkin grew up in Florham Park and Morristown, Morris County, graduated from Madison High School and attended Stanford University for undergraduate and law school, Murphy said.

During remarks Thursday, Platkin said he was inspired by his father to hang an inscription from the Torah that says justice, justice shalt thou seek in his office.

In testimony, Murphy campaign volunteer recounts ignored reports of sexual assault TRENTON - Katie Brennan testified Tuesday before a special legislative panel on allegations 

As attorney general, those words will be my north star, he said.

The attorney general is the states top law enforcement official, overseeing the State Police as well as all 21 county prosecutors. The post also is responsible for handling civil cases on behalf of the state. During his tenure, Grewal, for example, sued former President Donald Trumps administration over border separations, the environment and the Affordable Care Act.

Murphys predecessor, Republican Chris Christie, also nominated his former chief counsel, Chris Porrino, to be attorney general. That puts a close ally into one of the states most powerful posts.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Exports expected to rise



In the context that all countries are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam still witnessed very positive growth in exports. In 2021, the country earned 336.25 billion USD from exports, up 19% compared to last year. Eight export items bagged over 10 billion USD each, accounting for 69.7%. Vietnams trade surplus reached 4 billion USD.

Vietnam still witnessed very positive growth in exports in 2021 despite COVID-19. (Photo: VNA)

According to economic experts, in spite of impressive results in the period affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, exports still had limitations. Specifically, Vietnam is still passive in responding to unfavorable developments in the international market and too dependent on a number of import and export markets. Besides, import and export activities mainly came from foreign-invested enterprises. While the domestic economic sector achieved 88.71 billion USD of export turnover, accounting for 26.4% of the total, the FDI sector earned 247.54 billion USD, accounting for 73.6%.

Aiming to exploit the export market well, Director of the Ministry of Industry and Trades Department of Trade Promotion Tran Ba Phu said that the Ministry has assisted to organize numerous online conferences or combined face-to-face and online meetings nationwide on trade promotion for businesses in the digital environment. In addition, the ministry also organized domestic and online international fairs and exhibitions.

Push from big supports

In 2022, Vietnam and the world are still facing great and unpredictable challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the actual situation and the policy of living together and being safe from the pandemic, the National Assembly approved socio-economic development targets in 2022 with GDP growth from 6-6.5%, GDP per capita of 3,900 USD, and average growth rate of the consumer price index (CPI) of 4%.

The National Assembly has adopted a Resolution on fiscal and monetary policies to support the socio-economic development and recovery program. This is the largest-ever support package, up to nearly 350 trillion VND, with comprehensive coverage from disease prevention and control to fiscal, monetary, social security, infrastructure investment and institutional reform. The move is expected to be a spiritual and financial boost, creating a driving force for the economy after the pandemic.

The program identifies key issues with 5 main groups of tasks and solutions, scheduled to be implemented in 2022-2023, including: opening the economy associated with investment in improving capacity of health care, epidemic prevention and treatment (60 trillion VND); ensuring social security and supporting jobs (53.15 trillion VND); supporting the recovery of enterprises, cooperatives and business households (110 trillion VND); developing infrastructure, unleashing social resources for investment and development (113.85 trillion VND); and institutional reform, administrative reform, and improving the business investment environment. In addition, 10 trillion VND will be mobilized from non-budget financial funds.

Mr. Huynh Thanh Van, Vice Chairman of the Southern National Startup Advisory Council, said that supportive policies from the State are very practical for businesses during the recent difficult time. When the economy is on a strong recovery path, the National Assembly and the Government's continued implementation of the support package will help businesses have more opportunities, promptly encourage and create motivation for businesses to realize their production and business plans./.
A 2019 photo of a protest in the Netherlands is being misrepresented online to falsely claim it shows farmers blocking a freeway this week in solidarity with Canadian protests against COVID-19 vaccine mandates. @AP has the facts. https://t.co/iYzVvZGcWf AP Fact Check (@APFactCheck) February 2, 2022

(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.)
American tech giant Google might be preparing to integrate Google Photos for sharing images and videos through MMS rather than be sent over the primitive platform. As per GSM Arena, when a user will try to share a video inside a chat, a card will suggest a new method for sharing videos and photos by uploading them to Google Photos. As per the leaked clips and reports obtained by the outlet, the new feature seems to make the suggestion when composing a message for media through an MMS chat. This means the other person either doesn't have RCS chat enabled, or (more likely) the recipient is using an iPhone. The recipient would receive a link to view or download the media. In addition to the Google Photos feature, Google is seemingly walking back its decision to slowly phase out the 'hamburger menu', also known as the 'navigation drawer', from most Android apps by just stuffing all the menu items behind a profile photo icon. The reports also suggest Messages, Starred, Archived, and Spam and blocked tabs are all within what looks to be the return of the navigation drawer. Google may only be doing this for the Messages app and perhaps won't walk back the Material You guidelines to include the navigation drawer. In any case, neither the Google Photos upload nor the navigation drawer are official feature yet since they are disabled within the APK obtained by GSM Arena. (ANI)
Tributes paid to Willie Kneale BEM

Tributes are being paid to an Island resident who has passed away.

Willie Kneale was a lifelong member of the Manx Labour Party and president of the Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band.

In a statement, the band said: "Willie was a model bandsmen and fiercely loyal to CMSB. Music ran in his blood. In his role as compere he brought joy to thousands of people over the years. The good of the band came first to Willie. He leaves a gap that simply can't be replaced."

In June 2012, Mr Kneale was was awarded a British Empire Medal for this work with armed forces organisations.
Cavendish nominated for Comeback of the Year Award

Manx cyclist Mark Cavendish is one of six British sports stars nominated for the 2022 Laureus World Sports Awards.

The 36-year-old took his tally of Tour de France stage wins to 34 last July to equal the record set by Eddie Merckx.

Cavendish is up for the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award, along with diver Tom Daley and 13-year-old skateboarder Sky Brown

The winners will be announced in a virtual awards show in April.
MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The U.S. Secretary of Commerce has announced self-initiated proceedings to determine whether imports of quartz surface products imported from Malaysia are circumventing the antidumping and countervailing duties (AD/CVD) orders on imports from China.

While the Commerce Department normally opens these proceedings only after requests from the domestic industry, the agency is authorized to self-initiate cases. As part of these rare proceedings, the Commerce Department will examine whether the scope of the AD/CVD orders covers the quartz surface products exported from Malaysia. This will include examining whether materials from China are exported to Malaysia for minor processing and then exported to the United States as quartz surface products. Under U.S. law, this could constitute circumvention of the existing AD/CVD orders.

In 2018, Malaysia exported zero quartz surface products to the United States. The following year, after the Commerce Department issued AD/CVD orders on quartz surface products from China, exports from Malaysia began to skyrocket. By 2021, exports from Malaysia had reached a staggering 16 million square feet. Available evidence shows that much of these quartz surface products contain Chinese-origin inputs or are products that were simply transshipped through Malaysia and thus subject to the AD/CVD orders.

We have been shocked at how quickly exports from Malaysia rushed to fill the gap left by unfairly traded imports from China, said Arik Tendler, Cambrias Chief Sales Officer. We have long believed that this Malaysian merchandise is circumventing the existing AD/CVD orders. We appreciate Commerce Department taking this important step and look forward to working with the agency in these proceedings.

If the Commerce Department preliminarily determines that imports from Malaysia are covered by the scope or that circumvention is occurring, the Commerce Department will instruct Customs and Border Protection to begin collecting cash deposits on such imports of quartz surface products from Malaysia. This could potentially include any imports into the United States that were already made in the past reaching back to November 4, 2021. Any future imports of quartz surface products from Malaysia will also require cash deposits for the AD/CVD duties.

# # #
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott spoke Thursday morning as several counties in the state remain under a winter storm warning.

In Austin, freezing temperatures are expected all day, with freezing rain and sleet forecast to continue into the afternoon. Ice accumulation of up to a half-inch and wind gusts as strong as 30 mph are possible. A thaw from the frozen weather may come by Friday or Saturday.

Grounded: Flights canceled at Austin airport amid winter freeze

Watch a replay of the 30-minute press briefing here:

Photos from Austin winter storm

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Greg Abbott on Texas winter storm, freeze at press conference
The General Inspectorate of the Romanian Police announced an auction on SICAP (electronic public procurement system) for 15,000 electronic monitoring kits and their associated IT system, having a total value of 202,500,000 RON.

"The implementation of the SIME (Electronic Monitoring Information System) in the Romanian Police will ensure a real support to police workers with attributes in monitoring people that are under protection orders," the announcement says.

Regarding evaluation, the financial component will represent 80%, while the technical component will be 20%. The duration of the contract is 48 months, and the type of procedure is competitive dialogue. The deadline for receiving offers is March 8, Agerpres.ro informs.

"The competitive dialogue procedure will be made by signing a framework-agreement with the duration of 48 months since signing by both parties. The system will include, apart from the IT system, a number of 15,000 monitoring kits. Thus, during the first subsequent contract the entire hardware and software infrastructure will be ensured, as well as a minimum number of one monitoring kit and a maximum of 1,000 monitoring kits and later on will only supply the monitoring kits," the announcements says.

In mid-January, the Government approved the indicators for streamlining SIME, for 15,000 electronic monitoring kits to be acquired by the year 2025, through which the victims of domestic violence will be protected, and the aggressors will be held accountable.
Department 2  Judge Al Kacin

Jan. 10

Charlie William Senk Jr., 37, pleaded no contest to fourth degree arson and was sentenced 15 to 40 months in prison and was ordered to pay $1,213 restitution to the victim.

Jan. 11

Travis David Naylor, 39, of Ogden, Utah, pleaded guilty to attempted receiving, possessing or withholding a stolen firearm and was sentenced to 19 to 48 months in prison.

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James Allen Rector Sr., 54, of Los Angeles, California, pleaded no contest to principal to abuse or neglect of a child, and was given a suspended sentence of 28 to 72 months in prison and placed on probation for five years.

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Ronnie Larry Wakefield, 39, of Salt Lake City, Utah, pleaded no contest to conspiracy to commit possession of a controlled substance and was sentenced to 58 days in jail.

Jan. 19

Bradly George McGill, 36, of Elko pleaded no contest to abuse or neglect of a child, was given a suspended sentence of 24 to 60 months in prison and placed on probation for two years.

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Salvador Castillo, 41, of Los Angeles, California, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and was given a suspended sentence of 28 to 72 months in prison and placed on probation for 36 months.

Jan. 20

Salvador Castillo, 41, of Los Angeles, California, pleaded guilty to one count of low-level possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance, one count of possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance for the purpose of sale, and one count of conspiracy to commit possession of a controlled substance and was sentenced to 15 to 38 months in prison.

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KYODO NEWS - Feb 4, 2022 - 00:07 | All, Japan

Japan is weighing an option to divert part of its natural gas reserves to Europe in case Russia restricts gas supplies to the region in response to projected sanctions following a Russian invasion of Ukraine, government sources said Thursday.

Japan is likely to seek coordination with other countries in supporting Europe, which heavily relies on natural gas supplies from Russia through pipelines.

The United States has warned Moscow of sanctions if Russian forces invade the neighboring Ukraine as Russian troops have been positioned near the border.

Some U.S. media have reported that the administration of President Joe Biden has spoken with officials of major natural gas importers in Asia including Japan and South Korea about diverting gas supplies to Europe.

"We would like to think how we can contribute to the international community," Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Koichi Hagiuda told reporters.

The top government spokesman, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, said at a press conference that Japan has been closely communicating with the United States and European countries, indicating coordinated efforts would proceed smoothly.

At the same time, there are concerns in the government that natural gas reserves in Japan are not in great abundance either.

While the stock of liquefied natural gas in the country, which fuels thermal power plants, is higher this winter than the last season, there have been situations in the past in which the reserves were depleted.

When a cold wave hit Japan from December 2020 to January 2021, utilities had to ask households to save power as LNG reserves became lower along with soaring electricity demand.

Following such incidents, the industry ministry decided last October to continue close monitoring of LNG reserves in the country.
NBC has unveiled the first photos and trailer from upcoming true crime drama The Thing About Pam, and with it comes an official first look at Renee Zellwegers shocking transformation into murderer Pam Hupp. The role is Zellwegers first since winning the Oscar for Judy and marks her first regular series role on network television. She previously starred in the Netflix limited series What/If in 2019.

The Thing About Pam is based on the 2011 murder of Betsy Faria, which resulted in her husband Russ conviction despite his insistence that he didnt kill her. His conviction was later overturned. The brutal crime set off a chain of events that would expose a diabolical scheme deeply involving Missouri mother Pam Hupp. The story was featured in several episodes of Dateline and was the focus of the inaugural Dateline NBC true crime podcast.

More from Variety

It was pretty much head to toe. It was prosthetics, it was a [padded] suit, it was the choice of clothing, it was the briskness in her step-step-step, her gait, Zellweger told Vanity Fair about her transformation. All of those things were really important because all those bits and pieces are what construct the person that we project our own conclusions and presumptions onto.

Added showrunner Jenny Klein, Seeing Renee as Pam for the first time was totally surreal. I had studied so many hours of Pam, the real person, on police surveillance videos, and then here she was walking onstage in front of me. And it wasnt just the physical transformation, it was the way Pam carries herself, her dropped foot, her mannerisms, her sniffs, and even the way she often talks with her hands. It was completely mind-blowing because I didnt see Renee. I saw Pam. And that was also a little bit scary.

Story continues

Starring opposite Zellweger in The Thing About Pa is Katy Mixon as murder victim Betsy Faria, Josh Duhamel as defense attorney Joel Schwartz and Judy Greer as prosecutor Leah Askey.

The Thing About Pam premieres March 8 on NBC. Watch the trailer below.

Best of Variety

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
Leaders of the financially troubled San Francisco Art Institute say they have formalized plans to integrate operations and academic programs with the University of San Francisco, a private Jesuit university, in a process they say will eventually lead to the university acquiring the 150-year-old art school.

In a news release, the art school said Wednesday that the heads of the two institutions have signed a formal letter of intent to begin the process of exploring exactly how to merge their undergraduate and graduate arts programs. The agreement has been approved by the trustees of each institution, the statement said, and calls for a period of due diligence before the acquisition takes place.

The resulting program will be known as the San Francisco Art Institute at the University of San Francisco, the statement said. Under the agreement, the University of San Francisco will take over the art schools historical buildings, art and film collections, and assets. Those assets include everything on the art schools Chestnut Street campus, which houses a Diego Rivera Gallery that holds a valuable mural.
Researchers have come across a previously undocumented Trojan used by an APT group of Iranian origin that has been targeting organizations in Israel but also other countries since last year with the intention of damaging their infrastructure.

The group, tracked as Moses Staff by researchers from security firm Cybereason, has been operating since at least September 2021 and its primary goal is to steal sensitive data. It also deploys file encrypting malware, but unlike ransomware, the goal is to cause business disruption and cover its tracks rather than financial gain.

Who is Moses Staff?

Moses Staff's malicious activities were first documented last year by researchers from Check Point after a wave of attacks targeting organizations in Israel. Over the past two years there have been several groups targeting organizations in the country with ransomware-like attacks and lengthy negotiations, but Moses Staff stands out because its motivation is purely political.

The group has openly stated that its goal is to damage Israeli organizations by leaking their data and damaging their operations with no ransom demands. However, since then it has also targeted companies with operations in Italy, India, Germany, Chile, Turkey, UAE and the U.S.

"Analysis of the groups conduct and operations suggests that Moses Staff leverages cyber espionage and sabotage to advance Irans geopolitical goals by inflicting damage and spreading fear," researchers from Cybereason said in a blog post.

The group gains access to organizations by exploiting known vulnerabilities in publicly facing servers such as Microsoft Exchange and then performs lateral movement by using system administration tools like PsExec, the Windows Management Instrumentation command-line (WMIC) and PowerShell. This is similar to how most APT and ransomware groups operate.

Some of the group's custom malware tools that have been documented called PyDCrypt and DCSrv. The first is a Python-based malware loader whose goal is to execute DCSrv, which is a variant of the publicly available malware tool DiskCryptor. Each victim receives a custom version of PyDCrypt with hardcoded admin credentials, local domain and a list of machines to infect. This suggests before reaching the PyDCrypt deployment stage, the group had performed sufficient reconnaissance efforts inside a victim's network to map out the target environment.

The StrifeWater transient Trojan

While not a lot was known about the reconnaissance stage, researchers from Cybereason now think they found the missing link: a remote access Trojan (RAT) that the Moses Staff attackers deploy but later remove in later stages of the attack.

Dubbed StrifeWater, the Trojan is deployed with the name calc.exe, which is why some infected systems are later found without the Windows Calculator tool, also named calc.exe and possibly removed during the group's cleanup routine. StrifeWater's built-in functionality includes listing system files, executing shell commands, taking screen captures, achieving persistence via a scheduled task and downloading auxiliary modules that might extend its capabilities.

The Trojan uses a hard coded IP address and URl for communication with a command-and-control server but was also observed communicating with a hard-coded domain name. When first deployed, it collects information about the machine name, the local account, OS version, CPU architecture, time zone and user privileges.

"The StrifeWater RAT is suspected to be one of the main tools that are used to create a foothold in victim environments and appears to only be used in the earlier stages of the attack," the Cybereason researchers said. "Our analysis suggests that the Moses Staff operators make conscious efforts to stay under the radar and avoid detection until the last phase of the attack when they deploy and execute their ransomware payload. Furthermore, our research shows that the Moses Staff modus operandi includes attempts to masquerade its arsenal as legitimate Windows software along with the removal of their initial persistence and reconnaissance tools."
A sense of inevitability has settled over Western Australia as the highly transmissible Omicron variant spreads in the community and the active caseload ticks over 178. Its the smallest number of COVID cases in the country but the tension in the community has become akin to holding a ticking time bomb in your hands with a broken timer, never quite knowing when its going to go off. For the families and teachers at six schools in Perth now touched by COVID-19 it would feel like a bomb has already gone off with hundreds forced into 14 days of isolation. Shoppers walk through Hay Street Mall, some in masks and others not, on January 27. Credit:Peter de Kruijff This week living inside Fortress WA got a lot tougher for the unvaccinated few, with the countrys broadest proof-of-vaccination requirements expanding to all hospitality venues, gyms and even, specifically, bottle shops.

A few Perth-based business leaders have come out swinging, moving to the east coast as they brand McGowans tough border stance and opening date backflip unworkable. But so far, McGowan remains undeterred, with a lot of the community still backing his risk-averse decision making. What were trying to do is save West Australian lives in large numbers, especially older West Australians, McGowan said. I think what is lost in some of this is older West Australians, their lives count, their lives matter. Perth CBD streets have become a lot quieter since indoor mask rules were brought in on January 16, with probably half of pedestrians masked even though they are not compulsory outdoors.

A self-imposed lockdown by large companies fearful that one case in the office will shut down operations  as McGowan sticks with the 14-day isolation rule rather than cutting it back to seven  has resulted in immediate impacts on traders in the CBD. Googles COVID-19 mobility reports show the number of people going to workplaces in the CBD has dropped 39 per cent from pre-pandemic levels, after recovering last year, while retail visits were 30 per cent down. The City of Perth released data on Thursday showing weekday pedestrian activity in the CBD was down more than 5 per cent compared to the same time last year and the local governments carparks have gone from 27,000 cars per day to 20,000 in recent weeks. Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said West Australians needed to show confidence and called on the large CBD-based companies to bring their workers back into the city while case numbers were low.

Each time there is a different date or a push back that does have the effect of eroding some confidence, he said. And so I feel for many of the business owners and operators because there is uncertainty. So our best bet I think is to be as confident as we can to illustrate that we can get on with it. One cafe in the city, where office workers used to line up out the door every morning for their coffee and signature donuts, has seen business drop by about 60 per cent. And this is while WA has been averaging less than 20 community cases of Omicron a day the past two weeks, tiny figures compared to the caseload in eastern states. Andy Freemans hospitality group, Sneakers and Jeans, runs six venues in the city, with a staff of more than 150 people.

Sneakers and Jeans Hospitality Group chief executive Andy Freeman, before indoor mask mandates, at the Pirate Life venue which opened in October. Credit:Shot By Tom Mr Freeman said the effect of the new mask rule had been an instant downturn. So all the large towers when the mask mandate came out two weeks ago, by Monday they started working from home, he said. Freeman, who only opened a new Pirate Life beer branded brewpub in the CBD in October, said the group was now operating in the unknown after McGowan indefinitely postponed the states February 5 opening date. Whats happening at the moment, theres no visibility and its scary ... our big concern is people choosing not to come out. I cant control that, if theyre scared and apprehensive, Mr Freeman said.

We started weeks ago conserving funds and making changes, reducing expenses, putting in plans for a variety of scenarios depending on what the outcomes of McGowans decisions and the landing of Omicron in our market. I ordered a few hundred rapid antigen tests for our business. We split our office into three teams and our operations teams into two teams ... we have scenarios for 50 per cent down turn, 75 per cent downturn. Switching to providing mobile food or shutting down are options depending on when the virus starts impacting each bar and restaurant in the group. Even if WA keeps a lid on cases and CBD businesses can keep their doors open over the next few months, Perth residents could vote with their feet and avoid the city. But outside of Perths centre the threat of Omicron does not appear to have hit as hard on businesses.

As Fremantle man Paul Ryan enjoyed a coffee in the sun he said COVID had made his neighbourhood thrive. Fremantle man Paul Ryan enjoys a coffee before restrictions are expected to come into force in WA. Credit:Peter de Kruijff The cafes are absolutely thumping, the nightlifes just really picked up and the community has sort of bonded together, he said. Were lucky we just havent had the virus here yet, its coming now so it will be interesting to see what happens. Mr Ryan runs a co-working space with different creatives but was not too worried about how they would deal with close contacts or positive cases.

He said he was fine with the border opening being held off but said Mr McGowan should have had a lockdown to squash the current outbreak. Now it seems to be totally out of the bag, Mr Ryan said. You may as well wait until the peak passes in the eastern states and then open up. Before Omicron it appeared WA would be able to enjoy McGowans planned soft landing with a 90 per cent over 12 years old double dose vaccination rate. Masks would have only been required in some settings.

Now WA has seen Omicron ravage the New South Wales and Victorian health systems, sheer case numbers prompting a rethink from Mr McGowans government. Jaffelato owner Ali Richards whose Rockingham cafe saw its trade increase during the COVID-19 pandemic. Credit:Peter de Kruijff West Australians stuck outside the state have been promised more compassionate treatment from February 5 to come back and a decision on a new reopening date could be made in the next two weeks. Mr McGowan hopes it could be weeks before the case numbers jump dramatically in his state as long as West Australians keep getting tested. Testing figures, however, have been lower than the government wanted throughout January. Lockdowns last year saw testing highs of up to 18,000 swabs on a single day but over the course of January the average number of tests daily was about 5000 despite hundreds of people self-isolating with COVID-19 in WA and more than 100 exposure sites throughout Perth and country regions.

The past three days has since a maintained uptick of about 7000 swabs as schools in metropolitan Perth were impacted by COVID-19 detections. Mr McGowan said WAs good fortunes over the past two years were perhaps why people were not as active getting tested as they were in other states. But that [fortune] is obviously changing. So I just urge everyone, please take advantage of this opportunity, he said. In Mr McGowans electorate of Rockingham, Ali Richards runs a cafe near the foreshore. Jaffelato has been busier since the pandemic started, with takeaway sales going through the roof, but having positive COVID cases among the small team of staff will likely mean the business will have to close at times.

Im pretty understanding we will need for it to go through. It would be lovely if we could take it through the population in a controlled way, Ms Richards said. NSW seems to be one extreme, whereas South Australia seems to be managing it in a different way. South Australia  which has restrictions on dancing, elective surgery, home gatherings and customer capacity  has been observed closely by WA as it has brought its caseload down after a dramatic rise in December. WAs neighbouring state went from eight cases on December 10, when it first recorded a community case of Omicron, to 73 in just over a week.
A revised national curriculum will elevate the study of Western and Christian heritage in history, remove references to the Anzac legend as contested, cement the importance of phonics in teaching reading and reverse changes to maths that left experts worried the subject was being dumbed down.

Education ministers from all Australian governments meet to consider the changes on Friday afternoon, but there are concerns changes to the history syllabus will not go far enough for the federal government, while at least one jurisdiction remains unhappy with maths, sources said.

The reference to debates over the Anzac legend as being contested has been removed from the latest version of the new national curriculum. Credit:Getty Images

Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge  who has stepped aside amid an investigation into harassment allegations, which he denies  last year said the history curriculum created such a miserable impression of the nations past that Australians would be reluctant to defend it.

A briefing to ministers ahead of Fridays meeting, obtained by the Herald and The Age, shows the reference to debates over the Anzac legend being contested has been removed. The new version says students will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the importance of our Western and Christian heritage in the development of Australia as a prosperous and peaceful democracy, as well as learn more about our First Nations Australian histories and cultures.
ST. LOUIS  Unemployment in the metro area was still falling in December last year as the region recovered from the bottom of the pandemic. At the same time, the labor force was stable, according to data released this week by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The trends are a sign that employers at the end of last year were looking for workers in a workforce that still hadnt returned to pre-pandemic size, leaving the St. Louis labor market tight, with more job openings than job-seekers.

For St. Louis, it will take a little time to get back to the pre-pandemic level of normal employment, said Nathan Jefferson, an economist at the St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank.

The St. Louis metro areas seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.5% in December; Missouris was 3.3%, the nations 3.9%, according to the St. Louis Fed.

For the metro, its an improvement: Unemployment hung at 3.8% for four straight months between July and October as the areas labor force  the total number of people working or looking for work  shrank over the summer.

Economists keep an eye on unemployment, Jefferson said, but to measure economic recovery, the labor force is a better indicator. Getting the people who left the workforce during COVID-19s rampage back into the labor pool is the ultimate goal.

Early retirees, he said, are not expected to return. But women who left work for childcare reasons can be expected to as health and economic conditions improve.

Winter virus surges have created more uncertainty about returning to work. And, indeed, the St. Louis labor force in December hadnt caught up to the prior year, notching 5,152 or 0.4% fewer workers than the same period in 2021.

But the stability in last years labor force numbers was encouraging, at least compared to 2020. Then, almost 110,000 workers walked away from the St. Louis area labor force between February and May. The workforce has recovered some since then, but in December was still 2.9% behind February 2020, before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, when it stood at 1.48 million. In December, the most recent data available, it was at 1.44 million.

The nations labor force grew by 1% year-over-year in December.

The unemployment and labor force numbers are based on a survey of households.
Sanctions imposed on Myanmar officials arent enough to force change within the conflict-torn country, experts say.

This week, Britain, Canada and the United States imposed targeted sanctions on officials, coinciding with the anniversary of the coup that toppled Myanmars democratically elected government on Feb. 1, 2021.

Those sanctioned include Union Attorney General Thida Oo, Supreme Court Chief Justice Tun Tun Oo, along with Tin Oo, the chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission and U Thein Soe, a former military general who was appointed the chair of Myanmars election commission following the coup.



Myanmars Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday decried interference in internal affairs.

The latest sanctions arent enough to upset the junta, according to Ben Hardman, a Myanmar legal and policy adviser based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, with the non-profit EarthRights International.

When a country like the U.S. sanctions a person or company, it generally means that their U.S. assets are blocked and that people or companies in the U.S. cannot do business with them. So, sanctions may have very little impact on individuals in Myanmar that do not have interests outside of the country, Hardman told VOA.

These latest sanctions add to the pressure on the junta, but these are small straws that will not break the camels back any time soon, he added.

After the military removed the democratically elected government last year, ousted politicians formed the National Unity Government or NUG, maintaining they are the legitimate leaders of Myanmar.

Tung Aung Shwe, the NUGs representative to Australia, told VOA the latest sanctions are welcome but more must be forthcoming to deal a real blow to the junta.

It is very welcome to hear the announcements of the U.K., U.S. and Canadian governments for their additional targeted sanctions on some members and associates of the Myanmar military junta, Tun Aung Shwe said.

It is imperative that sanctions be imposed on the juntas Ministry of Oil, Gas and Energy (MoGE), the main source of revenue for its military power to suppress the people of Myanmar, he added.

Since the coup, Myanmars economy has collapsed. The World Bank had forecast that Myanmars GDP would see an 18% drop in 2021, while Fitch Solutions, a U.S. credit rating agency, predicted Myanmar would suffer a 4.4% contraction for 2022.

Amid the economic decline, Myanmar relies more heavily on income from vital offshore projects that produce and export natural gas. Major investors have included Chevron Corp. of the U.S. and Myanma State Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE), of Myanmar.

Gas projects are expected to account for $1.4 billion, or slightly more than 10% of Myanmars total revenue in 2022, according to the Myanmar Now news service.

Last month, Chevron and French oil firm TotalEnergies announced they will pull out of Myanmars main offshore gas field, citing the coup. International attention has now turned to more targeted sanctions on MOGE.

Khin Ohmar, a veteran pro-democracy activist and founder of Progressive Voice, a human rights organization, urges more interruption of the juntas income streams.

The only income in terms of hard currency that the military junta can still collect is natural resource revenues, particularly from oil and gas. The junta and its affiliated companies will not be able to sustain the brutal terror campaign against the population without the financial power that these revenues provide, she said.

We particularly need President Biden and President Macron to impose sanctions on the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise to stop oil and gas revenues from flowing to the junta, she added, referring to U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron.



Although Myanmar has suffered decades of fighting with ethnic armed organizations, the junta is now involved in daily fighting with the countrys growing People Defense Forces, as thousands of anti-coup protesters have taken up arms to resist the military government. The PDF is the armed wing of the National Unity Government.

Widespread protests against military rule have been met violently by junta forces. According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a non-profit monitoring group based in Thailand, at least 1,510 people have been killed by the military.

U.N. human rights chief Michelle Bachelet recently told the BBC that the conflict in Myanmar, also known as Burma, should now be termed a civil war. She called on the U.N. Security Council to take "stronger action" to pressure the military to restore democracy.

Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn last month acknowledged the situation has all the ingredients for civil war. Prak Sokhonn is also ASEANs special envoy to Myanmar, ASEAN being the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The 10-member grouping agreed in April to a "five-point consensus" aimed at halting the deteriorating conditions in Myanmar. Little progress has been made as the military continues to suppress dissent.

Khin Ohmar said the ASEAN effort has been pointless thus far.

The situation in Myanmar clearly poses a threat to international peace and security, yet the West continues to default to ASEANs role and its so-called five-point consensus, or five-pointless consensus as we call it. The more the international community waits, the more emboldened the junta will become as it escalates its crimes against humanity and war crimes, she said.

The military government said Thursday it is committed to peace, stability and the interests of its people in accordance with the five-point plan. The junta also rejected what it termed as statements that interfere in the countrys internal affairs.

The U.N.s special envoy to Myanmar, Noeleen Heyzer, is still hoping for a cease-fire from all parties. In a recent interview with Channel News Asia, she said the anti-military opposition must negotiate a power-sharing agreement to fix Myanmars current political and human rights crisis.

But 247 Myanmar civil society organizations have sharply rebuffed the possibility of a coalition. A joint statement said the special envoy must understand the root causes of the current crisis and genuinely listen to the calls of the people.

Myanmar gained independence in 1948 from Britain, but for most of its modern history has been under military rule.

In the November 2020 general elections, the military claimed widespread electoral fraud, without evidence. The coup saw the democratically elected government removed with its leader Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint detained and sentenced to multiple prison terms.
Thomas de Waal: More storm clouds gather over Armenia, Azerbaijan

Armenia former deputy PM Tigran Avinyan is appointed Yerevan Deputy Mayor

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Fly Arna receives its second Airbus A320 aircraft

Armenia defense ministry dismisses Azerbaijan MOD statement disseminated a while ago

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Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

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NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

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Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

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Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

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Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

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U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

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Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

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The government-mandated price freeze on certain consumer food products went into effect this week, on February 1, which means that from now until May 1, consumer protection inspectors from county and government offices will monitor compliance with the food price stop regulation in all parts of the country.

On-the-spot inspections will examine whether the products covered under the policy are set at what they cost on October 15 last year, the appropriate quantity of products are stocked, and proper signage on the price stop is displayed.



Failure to do any of these things will result in a fine of at least 50,000 Ft. (US $159). For repeated violations, the store may have its business activities suspended for a minimum of one day, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (ITM) said in a statement.



The price freeze on groceries covers a total of seven products:

 Crystal sugar

 BL-55 wheat flour

 Sunflower cooking oil

 Pork leg

 Chicken breast

 Chicken backs

 2.8% UHT milk

The price of each of these products cannot be higher than what the product sold for in the store on October 15 last year. If the item was on sale at that time, then the pre-sale price must be applied. If the store is unsure what the price of the product was, the store can use the average consumer price for the product as indicated on the Central Statistical Offices website.



RTL News reported that some stores had already changed the price tags on the affected foods and put up signage after closing on Monday. The National Trade Association expected sales to jump on Tuesday as many consumers postponed their shopping until the price stop came into effect on February 1.



In its statement, ITM emphasized that households would be able to save thousands of forints a month under the new policy, benefiting families with children and the elderly in particular.



Contrary to the usual practice, no warnings will be given for businesses not following the policy, and inspectors will able to impose fines ranging from 50,000-3 million Ft. ($159-$9,560) for infractions. Sanctions can be applied more than once, with fines doubling when a store continues to break the rules. Businesses with repeated violations can also be shut down from a period of one day up to six months.



The Ministry of Innovation and Technology (ITM) has compiled guidelines for retailers on the standard pricing, inventory, and product range for these products, which it distributed to industry groups and published on the Consumer Protection portal.



In the ministrys statement, Peter Cseresnyes, State Secretary for Trade Policy and Consumer Protection, explained: Consumer protection professionals will be monitoring compliance with the regulations in grocery stores, markets, and online shops from now for the next three months. Businesses selling the affected products in brick-and-mortar stores as well as webshops will have both areas monitored. ITM will summarize its initial experiences of the inspections as early as next week.





MTI Photo
Ian Stewart, 61, now stands accused of murdering Diane Stewart at their home in Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire in 2010

A man on trial for murdering his wife - five years after being convicted of killing his fiancee - had a 'very happy' marriage and was 'caring and gentle' towards her, a court has heard.

Ian Stewart, 61, was found guilty in 2017 of murdering his wife-to-be and children's book author Helen Bailey - whose body was found dumped in a cesspit alongside her pet dog Boris.

After Stewart was convicted, police investigated the death of his late wife Diane Stewart, 47, whose passing in 2010 had been attributed to Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).

At Huntingdon Crown Court, Stewart now stands accused of murdering Diane at their home in Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire.

But Dr Andrew Pullen told jurors today that the couple were both 'very gentle with each other', adding that he found it 'very hard to believe' Stewart was capable of murder.

Dr Pullen recalled how he first met Stewart in the 1980s when they were both students at the Cambridge University computer lab.

He said they and their partners socialised together as a group of four, adding that the couple became 'our best friends in fact'.

Asked by Amjad Malik QC, defending, about Stewart's manner towards Diane, the retired product development manager said: 'Caring and gentle. They were both very gentle with each other.

'They would work together as a nice team.

'If we went round for dinner, Ian and Diane would be in the kitchen preparing together - just a really nice couple, very caring, just lovely people.'

He said that at Mrs Stewart's funeral, the defendant appeared 'shocked'.

'He was just very numb,' Dr Pullen said.

Asked by Neil King, prosecuting, about Stewart's conviction for the murder of Ms Bailey, Dr Pullen said: 'That's a verdict of the trial.

At Huntingdon Crown Court, Stewart now stands accused of murdering Diane (pictured) at their home in Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire

Court sketch of Ian Stewart giving evidence watched by his two sons (left) at Huntingdon Crown Court

'I find it very hard to believe.'

Mr King said: 'There was nothing about Ian Stewart that led you to believe he was capable of that, was there?'

'No,' replied Dr Pullen.

Dr Pullen's wife, Sallyann Pullen, said the Stewarts' marriage 'seemed very settled, very stable, very happy'.

'I never saw them arguing or disputing anything, just a very nice relationship and a very nice family unit,' she said.

She agreed with Mr King that, when Stewart was in a relationship with Ms Bailey, they seemed 'very much in love' and she did not see them arguing.

Prosecutors alleged yesterday that Stewart had Diane cremated so that there would be little chance of evidence being collected.

However she had donated her brain to medical research, and, having been preserved, it was examined by a neuropathologist.

The expert said he found evidence of a lack of oxygen to her brain for between 35 minutes and an hour before her death.

Stuart Trimmer QC, prosecuting, told the defendant: 'You had Diane Stewart cremated so there would be very little that could come back and bite you.'

Stewart, being cross-examined, replied: 'The cremation was a joint decision with the boys and if I was thinking that way I wouldn't have agreed to keep the brain and heart.'

Ian Stewart, 61, was accused of murdering his fiancee, children's book author Helen Bailey (both pictured), in 2016, and found guilty by a jury the following year

Mr Trimmer said that Stewart's 999 call in 2010, in which he said his wife had had a fit, was 'just a lying charade', adding: 'You're a devious man, Mr Stewart.'

Stewart replied: 'No.'

During Stewart's trial for the murder of Ms Bailey, jurors were told her body was discovered in a cess pit at the 1.5 million home she shared with Stewart in Royston, Hertfordshire.

A forensic pathologist found it was most likely she was suffocated while she was sedated by drugs.

Mr Trimmer said: 'Is it not very surprising that both Helen Bailey and Diane Stewart are individuals whose death was caused by a similar mechanism in the view of the professionals?'

'Only some of the professionals,' Stewart replied.

The prosecutor suggested Stewart was 'a man capable of extreme and callous violence'.

Stewart replied: 'No.'

Stewart denies the murder of his wife. The trial continues.
The Lunar New Year marks the transitions between the Chinese zodiac signs in which this year will be the year of the tiger. This year the Lunar New Year is on Feb. 1, however with the spread of the highly transmissible Omicron variant, celebrations in large groups will be more challenging.
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Nestled in the medieval walls of Southampton  and in the shadow of giant cruise liners in the city docks  The Pig In The Wall hotel offers a welcoming retreat in the heart of a busy city less than half an hour from the New Forest.

The smallest in the groups litter of eight hotels has just 12 rooms, a treat-packed deli for light bites and a delightful lounge that wouldnt be out of place in any country house hotel many times its size.

The attraction of this hideaway lies in its simplicity, the quality of service and the quirky touches in its shabby chic rooms.

The Pig In The Wall, pictured above, is nestled in the medieval walls of Southampton

Country house feel: The Pig In The Wall hotel is the smallest in the groups litter of eight hotels. Pictured is the cosy lounge

These come in three sizes: snug (built in the eaves), comfy and spacious. Ours was mid-size with a rustic, old-fashioned cosiness that we looked forward to coming back to after exploring the city.

Individual touches included the Roberts radio, Bakelite phone and a well-stocked minibar plus a generous walk-in shower stocked with goats milk soap.

Among our fellow guests were those overnighting before a trip over to the Isle of Wight, and much further afield  on those cruise ships.

The individual touches in the rooms include a Bakelite phone and a well-stocked minibar

'Theres a comfortable quirkiness about The Pig In The Wall,' says Adrian. Pictured is the bathroom in one of the guest rooms

The 'shabby chic' rooms are priced from 170. Adrian approves of the old-fashioned cosiness of his room and he enjoys the 'generous walk-in shower'

A short walk alongside the city walls on Western Esplanade takes you to the Westquay shopping complex, home to a vast cinema and restaurants.

The huge Showcase cinema building looms over the historic quarter like a giant ship and this modern-day monument wouldnt look out of place in Shanghai.

Further on lies Southamptons SeaCity Museum with a permanent Titanic exhibition, unmissable for any visitor to the city.

The Pig In The Wall sits in the shadow of giant cruise liners in the city docks, pictured above

The hotel is a short walk from the Westquay shopping complex and Showcase cinema. Adrian says that the cinema 'looms over the historic quarter like a giant ship'

Southamptons SeaCity Museum, pictured, with its permanent Titanic exhibition, is 'unmissable' for any visitor to the city

Youll find statues by Rodin and Antony Gormley inside Southamptons art gallery and library, pictured

It illustrates brilliantly how entwined the city was with the doomed liner and tells the moving stories of some of those crew from Southampton who were caught up in the disaster in April 1912.

More than three-quarters of the crew  715 men and women  joined the ship from homes across the city. Only 175 returned.

Just around the corner from the museum is an Art Deco building thats home to Southamptons art gallery and library. Its a limited exhibition but youll find statues by Rodin and Antony Gormley inside.

The hotel's lounge is a mix of vintage wooden tables and low comfy sofas with coffee tables, Adrian reveals

At breakfast, guests are charged 10pp on top of the room rate for the continental version with a selection of cereals, yogurt, ham, cheese, eggs and pastries

Southampton, which last year was long-listed in its bid to be the UK City of Culture in 2025, is also home to the Mayflower Theatre, the biggest on the South Coast.

Back at The Pig, its time to get our snouts in the trough. All meals are taken in the lounge  at a mix of vintage wooden tables and low comfy sofas with coffee tables  as there is no separate restaurant.

At dinner, starters, from 8, include pork pies and thyme sausage rolls or quiche of the day. Smoked pork belly (yes, theres a theme!) with roasted squash and parsley dressing comes in at 15, as does a delicious cottage pie and curly kale. Service has a family feel to it and the friendly staff, known as piglets, are knowledgeable about whats being served.

At breakfast, guests are charged 10pp on top of the room rate for the continental version with a selection of cereals, yogurt, ham, cheese, eggs and pastries  or 14 for the Piggy Pan cooked breakfast.

Theres a comfortable quirkiness about The Pig In The Wall, and this little piggy certainly went home feeling content.
A British child star whose previous roles include Poldark and War Of The Worlds, has trumped Hollywood superstars to land a nomination at the 2022 British Academy Film Awards.

Woody Norman, 12, has landed a nod for Best Supporting Actor in the drama C'mon C'mon, where he stars opposite Joaquin Phoenix and Gaby Hoffmann.

The nominations for the 2022 BAFTAs were announced on Wednesday, with sci-fi epic Dune leading with a total of eleven nods.

Surprise! Child star Woody Norman, 11, has beaten out a slew of Hollywood heavyweights to land a nomination at the 2022 British Academy Film Awards

Woody, who started his acting career aged five, won critical acclaim for his role in C'mon C'mon.

The drama stars Joaquin as a New York radio journalist who is unexpectedly landed with his precocious young nephew.

Woody will compete against Jesse Plemons (The Power of the Dog) and Ciaran Hinds (Belfast), Mike Faist (West Side Story), Troy Kotsur (Coda) and Kodi Smit-Mcphee (The Power Of The Dog) for Supporting Actor.

Next generation: The young actor, who began acting at the age of five has landed a nod for Best Supporting Actor in the drama C'mon C'mon

Family: In the film, Woody plays the nephew of Joaquin Phoenix's character, a New York journalist tasked with taking care of him

On the rise: One of Woody's earliest roles came opposite Benedict Cumberbatch in 2017's The Current War

He beat out a slew of big names to land a BAFTA nod, including Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan, Andrew Garfield and even his co-star Joaquin.

Woody, who is passionate about animal rights, previously admitted he is a far cry from his character, telling Screendaily: 'We are very different. I've always been more extroverted. Well, not always, but he's more introverted and I've always been better with people.

'I've never had a point in my life where I haven't had friends, but Jesse has had a point like that. So I think what made me want to take the job is that Jesse and I are so different. I liked how weird Jesse was, and I got to play with that weirdness.'

Roles: He also played Valentine Warleggan in the fifth series of Poldark in 2019 (pictured)

Family: Woody's mother, Vonda Barnes (centre), was also member of 1990s girl band Madasun and subsequently found work as a TV presenter

Before starring in the film, Woody had appeared in a slew of TV series, including Valentine Warleggan in the fifth series of Poldark in 2019, and George Junior in The War Of The Worlds miniseries.

His mother, Vonda Barnes, was also member of 1990s girl band Madasun and subsequently found work as a TV presenter.

It looks set to be a competitive evening in the acting categories, with Lady Gaga, Caitriona Balfe and Benedict Cumberbatch battling it out for the leading honours, alongside newcomers Kodi Smit-McPhee, Ariana DeBose and Adeel Akhtar.

While many of Dune's nominations came in the technical categories, it's also landed a nod for Best Film, alongside Belfast, Don't Look Up, Licorice Pizza and The Power of the Dog.

Performer: Woody (pictured on his mother's Instagram) previously admitted he is a far cry from his character in C'Mon C'Mon

Snubbed: He beat out a slew of big names to land a BAFTA nod, including Judi Dench (pictured left), Jamie Dornan, Andrew Garfield and even his co-star Joaquin

The critically-acclaimed film, the first of two films based on Frank Herbert's 1965 novel, had been tipped for awards glory, with Hans Zimmer once again recognised in the Original Score category, along with nods for Casting, Cinematography, Editing, Production Design, Costume Design, Makeup and Hair, Sound and Special Visual Effects.

After its success at the Golden Globes, the dark Western The Power of the Dog landed eight nominations, including Best Film, Director and Adapted Screenplay for Jane Campion, Leading Actor for Benedict Cumberbatch, Original Score, Cinematography, and two nominations in the Supporting Actor category.

Following close behind is Belfast, which landed six nods despite an unexpected snub for Kenneth in the Director category.

In the Outstanding British Film category, Belfast and No Time To Die will fight it out for the honour alongside After Love, Ali & Ava, Boiling Point, Cyrano, Everybody's Talking About Jamie, House of Gucci, Last Night in Soho, and Passing.

Top prizes! The nominations for the 2022 BAFTAs were announced on Wednesday, with sci-fi epic Dune leading with a total of eleven nods (pictured)

The Leading Actress prize will go to either Lady Gaga (House of Gucci), Alana Haim (Licorice Pizza), Emilia Jones (Coda), Renate Reinsve (The Worst Person in the World), Joanna Scanlan (After Love), or Tessa Thompson (Passing)

Adeel Akhtar (Ali & Ava), Mahershala Ali (Swan Song), Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog), Leonardo DiCaprio (Don't Look Up), Stephen Graham (Boiling Point) and Will Smith (King Richard) are shortlisted for the Leading Actor award.

Nominated for Best Supporting Actress are Caitriona Balfe (Belfast), Jessie Buckley (The Lost Daughter), Ariana Debose (West Side Story), Ann Dowd (Mass), Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard) and Ruth Negga (Passing).

All of the performers in the Supporting Actor category are first-time nominees, with a total of 19 out of the 24 nominees up acting accolades earning their place on the shortlist for the first time.

The 2022 British Academy Film Awards will be hosted at London's Royal Albert Hall on Sunday 13th March

Exciting: The Power of the Dog landed eight nominations, including Best Film, Director and Adapted Screenplay for Jane Campion, and Leading Actor for Benedict Cumberbatch (pictured)
Seminary granted $1M to launch House of Black Church Studies

An ecumenical seminary based in Tennessee has been awarded a $1 million grant from the Lilly Endowment to advance studies on the African American church.

Memphis Theological Seminary will launch in-person programming for the House of Black Church Studies as early as March, selecting alumnus author and pastor Karren Todd as program director.

At Memphis Theological Seminary, we had already established a Cumberland Presbyterian House of Studies and a Methodist House of Studies, MTS President Jody Hill told The Christian Post in comments emailed on Wednesday.

With the addition of the House of Black Church Studies, Memphis Theological Seminary can now celebrate that we have houses of study dedicated to equipping leaders in our student bodys three largest congregational settings: the African American Church; the Cumberland Presbyterian Church; and the Pan-Methodist Church.

Hill directed CP to comments from the seminary proposal for the House of Black Church Studies, which will focus on the formation of congregational and pastoral leadership by building pastoral community; supporting mental health wellness; planning future sustainability; fostering spiritual formation; and developing congregational lay leadership.

The House of Black Church Studies will enhance Memphis Theological Seminarys capacity to carry forward its efforts to prepare and support pastors and congregational lay ministers of African-American traditions to serve their local congregations, stated the proposal.

The grant was one of 84 approved through Lilly Endowments Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative, which seeks to help theological schools strengthen and sustain their capacities to prepare and support pastoral leaders for Christian congregations.

The grants will assist programs at 74 theological schools in the United States and 10 in Canada, with grants ranging from $500,000 to $1 million.

Earlier this month, the Lilly Endowment granted $20 million to the National Trust for Historic Preservation's African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund to help preserve the legacy of the black church in America.

The black church has never simply been about spiritual development," Rice University professor Anthony B. Pinn told CP. "The black church has always tried to position itself as an organization that has met a full range of needs. And so folks go for this greater range of needs."

He warned that black Americans' involvement in churches has decreased over time because people have found different avenues to meet their needs, especially millennials.

Last November, Lilly announced plans to give $93 million in grants to 92 Christian organizations to help various Christian ministries adapt to a changing culture.

Known as the Thriving Congregations Initiative, recipients included Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Dakota Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Fuller Theological Seminary, the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston and the West Angeles Church of God in Christ.

Lilly Endowment Communications Director Judith Cebula told CP in an earlier interview that the organization would help ministries handle the rapidly changing contexts in which congregations exist.

The Endowment launched the initiative to encourage organizations that care about the wellbeing of congregations to find ways to help congregations strengthen their ministries so people can deepen their relationships with God, enhance their connections with each other and contribute to the flourishing of their communities and the world, Cebula added.
NOT ONE but two Limerick people feature on this week's episode of First Dates Ireland - what does it say about the singles scene locally?!

First up is Ellie Dunne, aged 18, from Rathkeale. Looking for one man, the TUS business student finds two in the form of Wexford man Cian, aged 20, and DJ Ciano  one guy, two personas.

Ellie told the Leader she decided to try First Dates Ireland as she is the last single girl among her friends and is a massive fan of the show.

"So I applied last year and shortly after was contacted by the show. I was delighted and took myself off up to the big smoke where I met the production team who were amazing. And after a few interviews they found me a match," said Ellie, who is coy about how she get on on the night.

"I cant say too much as I dont want to give it away ahead of Thursday night's episode. It was a great experience from start to finish and I met some fantastic people along the way," said Ellie.

Ellie was joined in the Coda Eatery at The Gibson Hotel, Dublin by David - perhaps on the train up - as he too is from Limerick.

Described as a "nice guy", the 27-year-old Mungret man's luck was in as his date is the reigning Miss Cork, Zoe Hendrick, aged 25.

Will Ellie and David return home to Limerick with the loves of their life? Tune into First Dates Ireland this Thursday at 9.30pm on RTE2 & RTE Player
Nigerian authorities release journalist after 84 days in detention for reporting on attacks against Christians

A federal high court in Nigerias Kaduna state has granted bail to a local journalist from the anti-communist Epoch Times who was arrested for his reporting about attacks against predominantly Christian communities in that country and the governments response.

The High Court in Kuwa granted bail to Luka Binniyat, a Roman Catholic, at a hearing on Thursday in which he pleaded not guilty to the charge of cyberstalking a government official, the U.K.-based group Christian Solidarity Worldwide said in a statement.

Epoch Times' Africa Desk Editor Doug Burton earlier attributed Binniyats arrest to an Oct. 29 article he wrote, titled In Nigeria, Police Decry Massacres as Wicked But Make No Arrests. The article is part of the newspapers coverage of the deadly persecution of Christian farming communities in the African country that human rights advocates say has escalated to near genocidal levels in recent years as thousands have been killed.

In the article, Binniyat pushed back on Kadunas Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs Samuel Aruwans characterization of an attack on Christian farmers in the state as a clash.

The Nigerian government has long refuted claims by human rights activists that a religious genocide is taking place in Nigerias Middle Belt states, where radicals from the Fulani herding community have been accused of invading countless Christian farming communities. The government has long attributed attacks and reprisals as being part of decades-old farmer-herder clashes.

In his article, Binniyat included a quote from a Nigerian senator, who accused the Kaduna government of using Samuel Aruwan, a Christian, to cause confusion to cover up the genocide going on in Christian Southern Kaduna by describing the measure as a clash as opposed to a targeted act of violence against Christians.

We urge the Kaduna state authorities to ensure due process continues to be observed as his trial progresses, and to prioritize the arrest and prosecution of genuine instigators and perpetrators of violence, along with the protection of citizens regardless of creed or ethnicity, CSWs founder and President Mervyn Thomas said.

Binniyats arrest for cyberstalking is not the first time the journalist has faced legal headwinds for his reporting. He was previously imprisoned in 2017 for breach of the peace.

The journalist had previously served as the bureau chief of Vanguard Newspapers until 2017.

Then after he was imprisoned, I dont think he got hired by any newspaper group because, the way it was explained to me, hes considered a controversial reporter, Burton told The Christian Post earlier. So I started working with him in March this year, maybe May of this year. And I encouraged him to  compile reports for The Epoch Times. I worked with him as his editor. And so hes published some very timely and factual reports about kidnappings and mass murders this year.

According to a recent study from the Anambra-based International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law, at least 60,000 Christians have been killed in the past two decades in Nigeria. The organization, which is run by Christian criminologist Emeka Umeagbalasi, reports that hundreds of churches have been threatened, attacked, closed, destroyed or burned in 2021.

In the northern parts of Nigeria, criminal groups and terrorists have conducted several large-scale abductions of school children in recent years. In 2014, about 276 schoolgirls were kidnapped from a school in Chibok in the northeast Borno state by the Islamic radical group Boko Haram. As many as 112 of those girls remain missing.

In February 2021, armed militants kidnapped nearly 300 schoolgirls from the Government Girls Science Secondary School in Jangebe, Zamfara state. The children were released weeks later.

Watchdog group Open Doors USA, which monitors persecution in over 60 countries, ranks Nigeria as the ninth-worst country when it comes to Christian persecution.
Donors raise over $50K for family of man fatally shot in front of 2-year-old son while sharing the Gospel

An online fundraiser has garnered nearly $50,000 for the family of a 37-year-old man who was shot to death in front of his 2-year-old son and pregnant wife while he was sharing the Gospel in Montgomery, Alabama, last weekend.

The funeral of Thomas Hand Jr. will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana, where Hand is originally from, on Friday, the wife, former Miss Mississippi Christine Kozlowski, announced on social media days after her sister launched the fundraiser for her nephew, Roman, and the couple's unborn child.

A teenager approached and shot Hand as he was sharing the Gospel on Texas Street in Montgomery last Saturday. Hand, who was with his 2-year-old son and his wife, who is pregnant with the couples second child, suffered a fatal wound and was pronounced dead at the scene, WSFA reported.

This fundraiser is going to serve as a savings account for the son and baby of Thomas Hand Jr., the GoFundMe page reads. The funds raised by this account will go toward helping pay for my nephew Roman and the babys future expenses. Any and all funds donated will be appreciated during this tough time for the Hand family. My sister Christine Kozlowski Hand will be the beneficiary for this account.

As of early Sunday, it had raised $50,782 of the goal of $3,000.

Police have arrested 17-year-old Jerimiah Walker of Montgomery, charging him with capital murder in the shooting death, according to the media outlet.

The motive of the murder remains unclear.

It was a complete random act of violence, Hands wife told the Daily Mail, which also said Hand, a fitness buff and ex-competitive bodybuilder, became a Christian in 2018, and it was the couples tradition to visit low-income areas in Alabama and share the Gospel.

Thank you for all of the thoughts and prayers during this time of the passing of my husband Tommy Hand. I feel the love and support from everyone and just wanted to let everyone know that indeed, she wrote on Facebook last Sunday.

The Hands moved to Montgomery last year to escape growing violence in the New Orleans suburb where they previously lived, longtime friend Kevin Rayan told Daily Mail. Its crazy because he was telling me every day, I want to get away from this crap, go buy a house in Alabama. And then this happened.
GERING - The 2022 Nebraska Dry Edible Bean Day will feature the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Associations annual meeting, as well as information on dry bean revenue insurance, irrigation water outlook and discussion of on-farm research with University of Nebraska-Lincoln specialists.

Dry Edible Bean Day is scheduled for 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, at Gering Civic Center.

For those who want to hear the presentations remotely, the meeting will be available on the Zoom webinar platform. To obtain information about how to connect via Zoom, contact the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association prior to the day of the event at 308-633-1387 or email, nebeangrower@allophone.com.

Registration and opportunity to visit vendor booths begins at noon. The program begins at 1 p.m. with welcomes from Dan Hinman, Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association president, and Courtney Schuler, chair of the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission. The NDBGA annual meeting and voting takes place at 1:15 p.m.

Presentations begin at 1:30 p.m. with Vanessa Reishus of Farm Credit Services providing an overview of the new dry bean revenue insurance program. Dennis Strauch of Pathfinder Irrigation District will update the status of surface water irrigation supplies for 2022. Scott Schaneman of the North Platte Natural Resources District will provide an update of the status of groundwater irrigation.

After a break, UNL Panhandle Center researchers and several bean producers will have a panel discussion focusing on 2022 on-farm research efforts. The audience will have an opportunity to learn about the projects, ask questions and consider whether they are interested in opportunities to participate. Potential on-farm research topics include regional western bean cutworm monitoring, developing heat-resilient dry bean varieties, nitrogen management for dry bean production, continued testing of new copper-alternative chemical products for managing diseases, promoting sensor-based irrigation management and on-farm weed control studies.

Also at Bean Day, Nebraska Extension Educator Tammie Ostdiek is tentatively planning to give a demonstration of cooking dry beans in the multi-cooker in a separate room. Anybody who is interested must register beforehand. Contact the NDBGA at 308-633-1387 or Tammie Ostdiek at 308-262-1022 by Jan. 31.

For more information check the NDBGA Association website at www.beangrower.com.
A conditional use permit in the Midland Precinct in Colfax County is expected to provide high speed internet to at least one resident.

During the Colfax County Board of Commissioners regular meeting Jan. 25, commissioners approved a conditional use application from Travis Anderson/Nextlink. Anderson, who lives in the Midland Precinct, is aiming to lease a portion of his land to Nextlink Internet, which is an internet service provider based in Texas. A 100-foot tower would be established in order to provide high speed internet to Anderson.

As noted during the meeting, the land in question is located roughly one mile north of Midland Store Veterinary Clinic on Road 11 and about three-quarter of a mile west on Road O.

Anderson noted that he needs to log in remotely for his work sometimes as well as his significant other -- who has been working from home because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Working from home can be difficult to do when they do not have reliable internet.

This tower is going to save me about $2,460 a year on internet, because right now I have about $220 a month. It's not very good, its not very high speed, Anderson said.

A representative from Nextlink attended the permits public hearing held during the Jan. 25 meeting through a phone call, and they noted that Nextlink would service a 4 to 5 mile range with the tower. Nextlink is also looking to add more towers throughout Colfax County and the surrounding counties of Platte and Dodge.

Last year Nextlink partnered with Frontier Cooperative to bring high speed internet options to communities in nearby Butler County. The partnership included beaming internet signal from equipment placed on top of Frontier Coop grain elevators in David City, Bellwood, Brainard, Bruno, Dwight and Garrison, according to the Schuyler Suns sister publication, The Banner-Press.

A Nov. 5, 2021, press release from Nextlink said that partnership was part of efforts to expand broadband internet access to residents and businesses within a 5 to 10 mile radius of Frontier Coops locations.

Zoning Administrator Nancy Marty noted during the county board meeting that the Planning Commission recommended approval for the conditional use.

In other county news, Highway Superintendent Justin Laudenklos shared in his departments report that himself and Mark Mainelli recently attended hearings at the Nebraska Legislature in regards to Legislative Bill (LB) 913. Introduced by State Sen. Bruce Bostelman, whose district covers Colfax County, the bill would require the Nebraska Department of Transportation to reconstruct a highway approach when it is destroyed by a natural disaster or as a result of faulty engineering. A highway approach is a part of a county road located on the states right of way.

Mainelli, who provides engineering services to Colfax County and is the highway superintendent of Platte County, noted during the Jan. 25 meeting that highway officials throughout Nebraska are seeking clarification on entities responsibilities when it comes to state right of ways.

Additionally, commissioners set a hearing date for the countys 1- and 6-year highway improvement plan, which is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 22.
Armenian News - NEWS.am presents the daily digest of top news as of 03.02.22:

Turkey has long way spoken about establishing relations with Armenia 'unconditionally.' However, so far, inside their political circle, there are other opinions.

Turkey pursues a policy of normalization of relations with Armenia with the consent and approval of Azerbaijan, statement came from Omer Celik, spokesman for Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), Trend reports.

According to him, as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated, "Turkey will not take part in any initiative that the people and the state of Azerbaijan will consider inexpedient."

Earlier, the chairman of the True Path Party (DYP) of Turkey noted that Armenian-Turkish relations should not be established without Armenia refusing Genocide recognition demand.

And now the leader of Turkeys nationalist Great Unity Party (BBP) said Turkey should posit two preconditions for the normalization of relations with Armenia.

BBP chairman Mustafa Destici claimed that Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) has not been "completely liberated" yet and that Armenia should hand over those territories, too, and stop the work toward the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, Haberler reports.

Azerbaijan has responded negatively to Armenia's proposals on the matter of border delimitation and demarcation. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan told reporters about this Thursday.

He clarified that various proposals were submitted, to which there was a negative response. Mirzoyan added, however, that this is a consistent process, and there had been respective proposals that were unacceptable for Armenia.

"We [i.e., Armenia] have repeatedly stated that we are interested in the process of delimitation of the border with Azerbaijan," the Armenian FM assured.

At Thursdays Cabinet meeting of the government of Armenia, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan reflected on plans toward the opening of regional communications.

In this connection, he recalled that Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk and Russian Railways General Director Oleg Belozerov arrived in Armenia Wednesday, and already met with Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan.

"This visit is very important. We are very close to recording the first practical results of the trilateral working group on the opening of communications in the region," Pashinyan added.

Noting that the previous day's visit was entirely aimed at the construction of the Yeraskh-Jugha-Meghri-Horadiz railway, Pashinyan said that the respective agreements had already been reached and that an integral part of these agreements is that when this railway will operate in the territory of Armenia, it shall do so under Armenias laws, and when operating in the territory of Azerbaijanunder the latters laws.

Russian President Vladimir Putin may visit Turkey in the second half of February, A Haber TV reported.

The visit, the date of which will be known after the Beijing Olympics, will take place in the second half of February.

Earlier, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu spoke about the possibility of the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to Turkey.

Dmitry Peskov, a spokesman for the Russian leader, said that Putin will take advantage of President Tayyip Erdogan's invitation to visit Turkey as soon as the COVID-19 situation and schedules permit.

Earlier, Erdogan offered the Ukrainian president and Russian president to visit Turkey. However, the Kremlin has rejected the offer.

Ukraine has expressed its intention to purchase new unmanned aerial vehicles from Turkey, head of the Public Relations Department of the Presidential Administration of Turkey, Fahrettin Altun, told Bloomberg on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Turkey and Ukraine.

The volume of trade between Ukraine and Turkey last year increased by 59%, reaching $7.1 billion.

To date, Ukraine has purchased 12 Turkish UAVs and also expressed its intention to purchase new devices at the level of the Chief of the General Staff.

CNN Worldwide President Jeff Zucker has resigned over his long-standing affair with colleague Allison Gollust, CNN's director of marketing.

"I acknowledged the relationship evolved in recent years. I was required to disclose it when it began but I didn't. I was wrong. As a result, I am resigning today," Zucker said.

Zucker did not name a colleague but the relationship in question is with Allison Gollust, who remains at CNN.

Designed by Virgil Abloh as part of a collaboration between Louis Vuitton and Nike, the Air Force 1 sneakers are up for auction at Sotheby's from January 26 to February 8, The Business of Fashion reported.

The total bet for all pairs is already about $ 6.1 million - although the initial estimate of the total amount was $ 1-3 million. The cost of one sneaker is $60,000 with an estimate of $2,000.

Apple and Samsung smartphones are among the most anticipated smartphones, which are scheduled for release in 2022, Mozillion reported.

Analysts of the company conducted an assessment of media and social networks to name the most popular smartphone of those that will be released this year based on articles in publications and consumer publications. Experts identified 50 devices. The iPhone 14 topped the list with 1.1 million mentions.
ANZ Bank and the Australian Open are parting ways after more than a decade of corporate sponsorship and hospitality.

After 13 great years, our existing partnership with Tennis Australia has come to an end following what turned out to be an incredible and historic tournament, an ANZ spokeswoman told CBD.

The nations largest institutional bank has been a fixture at Melbourne Park and this year was no different, with a corporate hospitality palace on the banks of the Yarra River, where chief executive Shayne Elliott and bank ambassador and Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott were in attendance before the mens final on Sunday.

Craig Tiley, Tennis Australia CEO, pays tribute to Dylan Alcott on Rod Laver Arena. Credit:Getty Images

Later inside Rod Laver, Elliott settled down for the marathon five and a half hour final in the company of the nations first couple of packaging, Ruffy and Fiona Geminder, recently arrived Rio Tinto chief Jakob Stausholm and burger billionaire Jack Cowin.
The result is a quagmire so bad it could cost Morrison the election. In a game of bluff, the Hawke camp has held out against choosing candidates for some of the seats the Liberals must win if they want to hold power. Because they will not do what he wants, he has denied them what they need. There is no Liberal candidate for Warringah to take on Zali Steggall in what was always going to be a difficult fight. Those who know the area believe it is now too late; they say the government has gifted the seat to the independent MP. There is no Liberal candidate to stand against Zali Steggall in Warringah. Credit:Renee Nowytarger There are no Liberal candidates for Eden-Monaro on the south coast, Dobell on the central coast and Parramatta in western Sydney. There is not even one for Hughes, usually a safe Liberal seat in southern Sydney. It is almost a full year since the sitting MP, Craig Kelly, quit the Liberals to join the United Australia Party. It is unforgivable, says one Liberal.

The reason for the delay is that nobody can agree on what to do about the partys safer seats. Hawke is being challenged by a conservative, Michael Abrahams, in his seat of Mitchell. Environment Minister Sussan Ley is under threat from another conservative, Christian Ellis, in her seat of Farrer. There are moves against a leading moderate, Trent Zimmerman, in North Sydney. The time for a settlement was early last year. (This column wrote about the problem in May). Instead, Morrison and Hawke allowed everything to drift. Hawke would not turn up to meetings of the nomination review committee to approve candidates for the federal seats. Without formal approval, the party could not open preselections. It was an impasse. It is all about Alex Hawke wanting to make sure he does not have a preselection, says one Liberal. Guess why? Because Hawke could lose. Morrison has been forced to choose between the rights of branch members and the fate of his close friend. He has backed Hawke. If Liberal candidates are chosen too late to run the campaigns they need to win marginal seats, the party will be blaming the Prime Minister.

Hawke thought he had a solution one week ago when the state executive was asked to back a motion that would endorse him in his seat along with Ley and Zimmerman in theirs. The executive rejected it by 16 votes to seven. The Hawke camp does not have the numbers. Loading Federal intervention may be the solution. Morrison and Hawke could suspend the usual business of the state division to force an outcome. Many think this has been Hawkes end-game all along. But one of the conservatives, Matt Camenzuli, is said to be ready to go to the Supreme Court to block a takeover. The best thing that Morrison could do is let the preselections happen, says one Liberal who is furious at Hawke and his boss. There are people in the party who will not work on election day for Morrison. He has trampled over their rights. And, more to the point, he has let Hawke run amok.

Because the greatest anger is on the conservative side of the party, the disunity could weaken the Liberals at the very time Clive Palmers United Australia Party and Pauline Hansons One Nation are trying to pick off disaffected voters. Most of these voters might go back to the Liberals with their preferences, but what if some do not? Loading This is a deeper problem than the psycho text. John Howard was branded a lying rodent in a leaked remark from a fellow Liberal in September 2004 and went on to victory at the election one month later. (The Liberal said to have made the remark, George Brandis, denied doing so in a statutory declaration). So, Morrison might survive the personal judgment. But will he survive the open warfare? This is not madness, just politics, even when they can look the same. Sometimes in politics a fevered mentality drives party members, officials and their elected members to put their rivalries and hatreds ahead of their collective fortune. The contest for internal power takes priority. Their grievances grow too great.
Brian Houston steps down as global senior pastor of Hillsong

Brian Houston has stepped down as the leader of the global multisite Hillsong Church, saying he will remain absent for the rest of this year as he faces trial for allegedly concealing sex abuse committed by his father decades earlier. Phil and Lucinda Dooley will be new interim global pastors.

Last year, I  received unexpected news of charges against me that allege the concealing of information that may have been material to prosecute Frank Houston. These allegations came as a shock to me, and it is my intention to vigorously defend them, Houston told the church in a statement on Sunday. So I have agreed to step aside from all ministry responsibilities until the end of the year.

Last August, police officials announced that Houston was being charged with concealing child sex offenses, The Associated Press reported at the time. Police will allege in court [that Houston] knew information relating to the sexual abuse of a young male in the 1970s and failed to bring that information to the attention of police, stated Australian authorities, as quoted by the AP.

In a statement to The Christian Post through Hillsong at the time, Houston expressed shock at the charges. These charges have come as a shock to me given how transparent Ive always been about this matter, he said. I vehemently profess my innocence and will defend these charges, and I welcome the opportunity to set the record straight.

Houston explained in Sundays statement that during a December board meeting, Hillsongs external legal counsel advised that it would be Best Practice for me to step aside completely from church leadership during the court proceedings, which are likely to be drawn out and take up most of 2022.

Houston, who founded the global church network in the suburbs of Sydney in 1983, said he intends to fight the charge and welcome the opportunity to set the record straight, adding that his wife, Bobbie, intends to remain fully engaged in church life.

Houston also announced that Phil Dooley and his wife, Lucinda, who are currently leading the Hillsong ministry in South Africa, will be interim (or acting) global senior pastors.

The Dooleys are well-loved by many in our church, having successfully served as our youth pastors in Australia for many years, he said. Over the last 13 years they, with their family, have resided in South Africa and have raised up a phenomenal multi-campus Hillsong Church.

The probe into whether Houston tried to cover up the incident, in which his late father sexually abused a minor in the 1970s, was initiated years ago. In 2014, in response to that probe, Houston denied knowing anything about the $10,000 compensation payment made to a man who his father sexually abused as a child.

Houston said he was totally devastated to learn about his fathers abuse and he had to come to terms with the fact that the person I looked up to was not who I thought he was.
More than $68 million in unexplained money flooded into political parties in the past financial year, making up almost 40 per cent of all donations, with integrity advocates warning the secrecy around who donates to Australias political powerbrokers must end.

An analysis from the Centre for Public Integrity published on Friday found the hidden money, which parties are not legally required to reveal the source of, is more than all other declared donations and other receipts combined for the 2020-21 financial year.

High profile barrister Geoffrey Watson SC says the secrecy around political donations has to end. Credit:Rob Homer

The amount of money spent in the coming election, which must be held by late May, is anticipated to again hit record levels. The major parties collected more money in 2020-21 than the previous year, and donations and fundraising are usually ramped up closer to an election.

The Coalition faces pressure over integrity issues from Labor and a raft of centre-right independent candidates after Prime Minister Scott Morrison promised in 2018 to establish a Commonwealth Integrity Commission to investigate corruption.
Chennai, Feb 3 (PTI): Carborundum Universal Ltd (CUMI) on Thursday said its step down wholly owned subsidiary CUMI Abrasives GmbH has entered into a share purchase agreement with RHODIUS Abrasives, Germany at an enterprise value of Euro 55 million (about Rs 464 crore).

In a statement, the company said the transaction was expected to be completed by end of March 2022.

Also Read | Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Series Marketing Images Emerge Online Ahead of Its Launch.

"RHODIUS has over seven decades of experience manufacturing high performance grinding and cutting consumables for machining of metal and stones. RHODIUS brings in a vast and innovative product line up with various patented benefits that create unique selling opportunities", CUMI Managing Director, N Ananthaseshan said.

More than 70 per cent of RHODIUS revenue was generated through exports to over 100 countries, he said.

Also Read | Harcox Finance: A DeFi Project Offering Accessible Scaling Solutions Arrives.

"We believe that the expertise and portfolio of CUMI and RHODIUS complement each other well and the acquisition will significantly aid CUMI in global market expansion. We are delighted to be working with the RHODIUS team to fulfill our global plans", he said.

According to CUMI Director Finance and Strategy, Sridharan Rangarajan RHODIUS concluded the year 2021 with sales of Euro 62.5 million along with a healthy return profile. RHODIUS is a producer of world's thinnest cutting wheel with extensive innovative capabilities including more cuts per battery charge. The Indian market for Thin wheels was expected to grow fast with the Centre's 'Gati Sakti' programme, he said.

"A CUMI-RHODIUS alliance will be timely to capture these opportunities. We see synergies in assured grain supply, market access in India and Russia, and making CUMI's products available through RHODIUS's distribution network", he said.

RHODIUS Managing partner Bernd Lichter said, "CUMI offers RHODIUS Abrasives a unique platform with important strategic advantages, especially in the areas of depth of product range, raw materials and global distribution. This will elevate RHODIUS's growth strategy to the next level".

Investec was the exclusive financial advisor to CUMI and CapitalMind represented RHODIUS on the transaction, the company said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chinese soldiers from the People's Liberation Army wear protective masks as they march after a ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of China's entry into the Korean War, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, on Oct. 23, 2020. (Kevin Frayer/Getty Images)

CCP Control Over Economy, Military Reaches New Heights: Experts

The expected appointment of Xi Jinping to a third term as head of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) at the 20th Party Congress this fall is likely to lead to ever tighter and more autocratic control over Beijings fiscal, military, and national security policies, said experts at a virtual hearing of a U.S. congressional advisory body on Jan. 27.

Panelists at a hearing of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission addressed a broad range of topics whose common denominator was the enhanced centralized control that is likely to occur following the twice-in-a-decade Party Congress, and the potentially dramatic consequences for China and the world.

One of the defining characteristics of Xi Jinpings reign as CCP general secretary has been a tendency to strengthen the Party aggressively and make it more prominent within the apparatus of government, said Nis Grunberg, a lead analyst and the Berlin-based Mercator Institute for China Studies. Xis purpose has not been to dismantle the state apparatus but rather to shift the balance of power to the point where Party officials, and Xi himself above all, control all decision making.

Xi is pretty clear that he wants embedded Party officials to advance objectives better within their respective organizations and for all strategic policy-making to be under his personal leadership. He has instituted this system to an unprecedented degree, Grunberg said.

Grunberg dissected the fallacy that state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are to some degree independent of the regime. Under Xis reign, the heads of SOEs receive strong encouragement to support policy objectives proactively. To ensure that this happens, Party officials vet candidates for the leadership of SOEs. They fill the 50 most important SOE leadership roles, in areas such as oil, manufacturing, and technology, through direct appointments, Grunberg said. Hence, SOE heads are in reality both government officials and business executives.

Increasingly over the last two years, whatever autonomy SOEs might once have had has waned as SOEs have come under pressure to invest in certain technologies and promote social stability as defined by Party officials. And these pressures carry over even into the private sector.

As Alibaba can testify, leading private organizations are now expected to develop strategies that serve political objectives, Grunberg said.

Under CCP law, any organization employing more than three people has to establish a CCP cell, and under the CCPs constitution, non-state companies are required to follow Party guidelines.

The goal is to have representatives at the table. Not to kill private enterprise, but to align it closely with Party ideology, Grunberg added.

The panelists left no doubt that the tentative pro-market reforms and moderate social liberalization undertaken under then-CCP leader Deng Xiaoping in the 1980s are now a thing of the past as centralized control tightens, and the appointment of Xi to a third term will only accelerate this trend.

Chinas economic future depends on whether Xi will course-correct and adopt a more moderate approach, or double down, said Yuen Yuen Ang, a professor at the University of Michigan.

The current regime is a true dictatorship with few if any parallels in the world today, said Victor Shih, a professor at the University of California San Diego.

Xi gets most of the important decisions. They dont all get implemented, but they matter, and they sway policy, Shih said.

Foreign Policy and National Security

The expansion and consolidation of Xis autocratic control are no less evident in the realms of military policy and national security, according to panelists.

Xi has emphasized on different occasions that foreign policy is a reflection of the nations will, and therefore must be controlled by the central committee of the Communist Party, said Yun Sen, director of the China program at the Stimson Center, a Washington-based think tank.

One means to this end has been Xis restructuring of the decision-making process at the CCP Congress in 2018, which involved the formation of a new Central Foreign Affairs Commission.

Party control is as strong as it has ever been over the Chinese military. But rather than coming from any basis of charismatic authority, I would argue that Party control is stronger than ever because of coercion, said James Mulvenson, director of the Center for Research Intelligence and Analysis, a think tank.

The recent history of internal Chinese politics offered clues to what has been in the works, Mulvenson argued. One clue came across at a military meeting known as the Gu Tian conference in 2014, which Mulvenson described as a reprise of an event in 1929 where Mao Zedong assumed full control over the CCPs Red Army, which up to that time had been an assortment of mercenaries and warlords, and imposed direct top-down oversight of all the ranks. In the 2014 conference, Xi reorganized the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) into five theater commands, relying heavily on his anti-corruption campaign to exert pressure.

It resulted in hundreds of thousands of people losing their jobs. All of that was facilitated by the anti-corruption campaign, and that continues to be the most powerful level that Xi Jinping has, Mulvenson said.

The cumulative effect of Xis reforms has been to establish a level of direct top-down oversight with few parallels in history.

At the top level, Chinas system for decision-making has been revamped. An entire system has been created in the CCP hierarchy down to the county level, said Joel Wuthnow, a senior research fellow at the Center for the Study of Chinese Military Affairs at the Institute for National Strategic Studies, a Pentagon-run think tank.

The PLA is ultimately run by a set of Party organizations. There is a Party committee at the head of it, concurred Roderick Lee, research director at the U.S. Air Force China Aerospace Studies Institute.
San Diego, CA, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is proud to announce Julie Tran and Markus Canter and Cristie St. James of the St. James + Canter team have placed among the elite Class of 2022 Real Estate Newsmakers, presented by RISMedia.

Every year, influential real estate industry news leader RISMedia honors agents who have made huge impacts in their communities and profession in its prestigious Real Estate Newsmakers competition. Earning a place in the Newsmaker category list of Motivators is Julie Tran. St. James + Canter were selected for the Newsmaker category list of Futurists.

These real estate professionals are not only top producers in their respective offices, but they also are highly regarded for being involved in the communities they serve, said Martha Mosier, President, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties. Were proud to have these three exceptional associates as longstanding members of our Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties family. We celebrate their well-deserved recognition as members of the elite RISMedia Real Estate Newsmakers.

These exceptional agents are recognized in the February 1 digital edition of RISMedia Real Estate Magazine, and will be again on September 7 at the CEO & Leadership Exchange in Washington, D.C.

The Newsmakers from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties are the following:

Cristie St. James & Markus Canter  Futurists: Forward-thinkers, innovators, up-and-comers

Markus and Cristie are Luxury Properties Directors and Founding Directors for the New Homes Division of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties. Their dynamic St. James + Canter & Associates team is based in the Beverly Hills office, where they are among the top-producing agents. Markus and Cristie frequently represent high-profile and celebrity clients. They have been featured twice in one season on Bravo networks Million Dollar Listing series, and are regularly quoted by leading news organization such as The Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, CNBC, and Forbes.

Markus and Cristie specialize in the purchase and sale of luxury estates, fine homes, and high-end condominiums. Cristie, as Co-founder and President of St. James + Canter Luxury Real Estate, oversees the day-to-day operations of the company, and is responsible for spearheading Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties new construction and luxury condo business divisions.

St. James + Canter & Associates is a modern real estate agency that provides clients an unparalleled full-service environment to suit the needs of their individual lifestyles. The company specializes in offering global sales, marketing and design solutions for buyers, sellers, developers, and investors.

Julie Tran  Motivators: Those who inspire

An Orange County native based in the Irvine office, Julie is highly respected among her peers and clients. Her commitment transcends expectations whether representing a first-time homebuyer, seasoned investor, or luxury client. Julie is above all a reliable resource to her clients, and has built her business with the core values of trust, honestly, and loyalty, which leads to referrals and repeat business.

A philanthropist in her own right, Julie gives back to her community by volunteering at local non-profit organizations. She served in 2021 as the board president of the Asian American Real Estate Association of America, Orange County chapter; is involved in The Charitable Foundation Orange County, a nonprofit 501(c)3 foundation run by dedicated agents and employees of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties who wish to have a beneficial and constructive impact on their local communities; and supports Uncork for Hope Foundation, which empowers at-risk youth through community partnerships. Because of her commitment to the community, she was invited to serve on the IMPACT Council (Inclusive Mindset Promoting Action to Change Things) of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties.

The full list of honorees is available at rismedia.com/2022-newsmakers.

About RISMedia

RISMedia was founded in 1980 by CEO and publisher John E. Featherston, as the residential real estate industrys definitive source for news and information for real estates most profitable and productive professionalsand all those looking to gain a competitive edge.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties proudly supports nearly 3,000 sales associates in 45 offices spanning Santa Barbara to San Diego. In 2020, our expert agents assisted in more than 10,000 client transactions for over $13 billion in sales volume.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is a wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., and a member of HSF Affiliates, LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. For more information, visit www.bhhscalifornia.com. To learn about career opportunities, visit www.bhhscalifornia.com/careers.

Attachments
As if recent revelations about NSO Group werent bad enough, yet another Israeli firm  QuaDream  has now been accused of using the same hack to undermine iPhone security.

QuaDream also used the hack, Reuters claims

A Reuters report has the details:

QuaDream made use of the same flaw to commit similar attacks against iPhones.

The company is smaller than NSO Group, but also sells smartphone hacking tools to governments.

Both companies used the same highly sophisticated "zero-click" ForcedEntry attack, which enabled them to remotely break into iPhones without an owner needing to click a malicious link.

Once deployed, attackers using the software could access messages, intercept calls, and use the device as a remote listening device. They also gained access to the camera and more.

Apple closed this vulnerability in September 2021.

It is believed NSO Group software was used to target the family of murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The news follows the revelation that the FBI also obtained NSOs Pegasus spyware, but claims it did not use it. That also follows another recent claim that NSO Group offered bags of cash in exchange for access to US cellular networks via the SS7 network.

Apples response so far

While we dont know if Apple is aware of the actions of QuaDream, how it responded to the NSO Group attack may be instructional. Apple closed the ForcedEntry vulnerability soon after it was revealed. The company later filed a lawsuit against NSO Group saying the Israeli firm violated Apples terms of use.

Apple pulled no punches in its suit, which said:

Defendants are notorious hackers  amoral 21st century mercenaries who have created highly sophisticated cyber-surveillance machinery that invites routine and flagrant abuse.

Ivan Krstic, head of Apple Security Engineering and Architecture, said:

Our threat intelligence and engineering teams work around the clock to analyze new threats, rapidly patch vulnerabilities, and develop industry-leading new protections in our software and silicon. Apple runs one of the most sophisticated security engineering operations in the world, and we will continue to work tirelessly to protect our users fromabusivestate-sponsored actorslike NSO Group.

With that promise in mind, its easy to imagine Apple will now litigate against QuaDream for its abuse of the same vulnerability.

What these attacks are for

These attacks arent cheap. Reuters cites prices of $2 million and above for access to them. That expense implies most users neednt worry at this time, particularly as Apple has now patched this vulnerability.

Sadly, this does not mean criminal and state-sponsored hackers wont abuse other so-far-unknown ways to break into your digital lives. (They may be doing so already.)

For now, Apple is warning users it identifies as having been hit by these hacks. Some of those affected include Israeli citizens, US diplomats, journalists, dissidents, and opposition leaders in nations around the world.

Mercenary spyware firms like NSO Group have facilitated some of the worlds worst human rights abuses and acts of transnational repression, while enriching themselves and their investors, said Ron Deibert, director of the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto.

NSO Group and an Israeli firm called Candiru have now been banned in the US. We dont know if QuaDream will be added to that list, but there are many other firms that also should be constrained.

What you can do

The problem with attacks of this kind is that they are highly sophisticated, highly targeted, and, by their nature, hard to spot. They use unknown vulnerabilities to break into a device, and then try to take control of those devices. Until the attack is identified, security researchers and platform providers remain unaware that a flaw exists, so they cannot protect against it.

This is why Apple is contributing $10 million to support security research and (I imagine) will probably increase that investment moving forward.

Since the NSO Group attack was disclosed, Apple now provides threat notifications. So if it spots activity it sees as consistent with a state-sponsored attack, it will send the user who has been attacked an email, an iMessage, and a notification on that persons Apple ID page.

When it comes to general security tips, Apples current advice is to:

Update devices to the latest software, which include the latest security fixes.

Protect devices with a passcode.

Use two-factor authentication and a strong password for Apple ID.

Install apps from the App Store.

Use strong and unique passwords online.

Dont click on links or attachments from unknown senders.

It is important to note that any move to permit side-loading of apps on Apples platforms will undermine this security and make it easier for groups such as NSO Group or QuaDream to break into your iPhone.

Finally, if you think your device has been affected, one (not at all ideal) solution might be to return your device to factory settings and make use of a temporary SIM and a backup Apple ID pending review of your original files.

Stay safe out there.

Please follow me on Twitter, or join me in the AppleHolics bar & grill and Apple Discussions groups on MeWe.
When Vonage made the pivot from B2B to B2C, chief marketing officer Joy Corso was faced with what she calls "the brand marketer challenge"getting the company's potential users up to speed on its new mission.

Communicators "have the power of the legacy brand that folks know and have a positive affiliation with," but they also have to shift that and get users to think about the brand "in a whole different way."

As a business-focused brand, Vonage now needs to focus on features that allow "folks to stay connected to their customer through their journey." That includes things like video calling, moving communications to the cloud, and communications APIs (the building blocks for things such as telemedicine).

In addition to the new audience, there is also the question of the competitors a company that has made a market pivot needs to face.

"We are not a digital native," she says, and Vonage has "digital native competitors" for each new area they are aiming for.

To meet the challenge of those competitors the company had to "make it super clear, this is exactly what we do, a telemedicine solution, an SMS solution, a contact center. So, that is how we're really trying to break through the noise in the market and go head-to-head with the competition."

Corso stresses the importance of data and analytics. "Not only do we look at, are we getting pickup for your standard advertising, sort of display ad, that sort of thing, but is it changing the perception of your brand?," she says.

She also talks about how communicators can get measureable results in the midst of the "tsunami of digital ads" that are flooding the market. By being "very direct, humorous, and still interesting," Corso says, "we saw a big uptick in understanding of what we do."

The importance of CSR and ESG initiatives is addressed as well. "I think this notion of doing good and being a good corporate responsible citizen, it's table stakes now."

As a part of that, the company "re-established our Vonage foundation, our non-profit arm, to really connect to accelerating the world's ability to connect. Yes, you're for profitability and shareholders and all that good stuff, but at the end of the day, you should find that way to connect it to your vision, to do good. "

View all of the interviews in the PR's Top Pros Talk series. Subscribe to get notified when new episodes are available.

Interested in taking part? Contact Doug Simon at [email protected]

D S Simon Media helps clients get their stories on television through satellite media tours and by producing and distributing content to the media. The company also produces live social media events.
The idea for this column came to me about three weeks ago, while I was shopping at Aldi. I like to visit the store every couple of weeks because I always seem to find some things that are different, things that you do not find in other supermarkets.

In one of the freezers, I saw some boxes of eggplant. One was a box of eggplant slices that had been fried and ready to make into eggplant Parmigiana. I have done that one before and have always found that it is better to start that dish from scratch. The second box intrigued me: "baked eggplant fries" was on the label. I looked at the ingredient and nutrition labels and bought a box, and baked them. They were delicious. When I returned a week later, there were no more. Ill tell you about the delicious recipe I found in a bit. Lets look first at this delicious, underused vegetable. It is seldom on the menu of area restaurants, excepting as the ever-popular Parmigiana.

Thought to have originated in China, there are references to eggplant in books written around 500 B.C. And in China it stayed. There are no references to it in Greek and Roman literature. Its first appearance in Europe was in England in the Middle Ages, where it was called egg-apple or eggplant. By the mid-18th century it made its way to North America, most probably with immigrants from the countries around the Mediterranean. Today, the main area of its popularity is all around the Mediterranean, from North Africa eastward into Turkey and then west to Greece, Italy, France and Spain. Each area has its own recipes, and each town, each street its own variation. In France it is ratatouille, and in Egypt, slices are baked with a tomato topping, somewhat similar to the Italian eggplant Parmesan. The Greeks, of course, love their moussaka, eggplant, lamb and feta, and their eggplant dip. But you will have to journey to Japan for eggplant in ginger sauce. On the other hand, I have not checked with Ichiban right here in Auburn. In an Indian restaurant, you might find a tomato and eggplant curry.

This is a healthy food, low in calories and high in potassium and fiber, with magnesium and phosphorus. A 4-ounce serving carries only 32 calories.

Before I run out of space, let me give you the recipe I found for eggplant fries  a misnomer because they are baked, not fried. Turn the oven on to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Begin by peeling a medium-size eggplant and then cut it in half lengthwise, and then each half across the middle. Now, doing your best, slice them into the size you might for a large potato French fry. Next, combine a cup and a half of unseasoned breadcrumbs with half a cup of Parmesan cheese, a teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme, and half a teaspoon each of salt and black pepper, and mix well. In another bowl, beat two large eggs. Dredge the pieces in the eggs, be sure to cover well, then add into the breadcrumb mixture. Again, pat them to be sure they are all covered. Place on a parchment-covered baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, flip each one and bake another eight minutes. It's not in the recipe, but I found that if I broiled for a few minutes, I came out with a crispy and delicious snack. Serve with ketchup, or as I did, with basil pesto.

Here is a delicious bonus. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a wok or skillet. Saute a large chopped onion and a pound of sliced button mushrooms for about five minutes. Now, add two more tablespoons of olive oil and a sliced green bell pepper. Add an eggplant of about a pound and a half that has been peeled and cut into three-quarter-inch cubes. Stir in four or five tablespoons of white wine, reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Stir in a tablespoon each of chopped fresh parsley and dill. Serve over rice.

Stay well, things are getting better. Wear your mask.
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- DESPERATE MEASURES, the New Zealand-born, London-based, punk and rock four piece released their brand-new mini album 'Rinsed' on Easy Action records last October to critical acclaim. Containing six tracks of hard-hitting punk with a big helping of rock n' roll, the album is available on 10" vinyl, CD and download. These recordings feature the new line-up of founder Eugene Butcher, former Glitterati and current Rich Ragany and The Digressions guitarist Gaff, Ricky McGuire of U.K SUBS and The Men They Couldn't Hang, along with former K-Line/Done Lying Down drummer James Sherry.

Original art by Combination 13 Rinsed by Desperate Measures - Album cover

Following the release of 'The Rich-Tual', the stomping first single from the 'Rinsed' sessions released earlier this year came 'Flowers At Your Door'. Channeling the dark energy of Iggy Pop, Lords Of The New Church and The Doors, 'Flowers At Your Door' is a brooding rocker that finds Desperate Measures shifting in new directions with their new line-up with excellent results. Never ones to stick to how things should be done, Desperate Measures decided to give their album a second press and create artwork that would set them apart from the status quo. So, it was only natural that lead vocalist, Eugene Butcher teamed up with Steve Kitchen, of Combination 13 design in Canada, for the series of striking cover designs now released as exclusive NFT designs through LuchaCoinNFT.

Says Butcher "We had a blast designing these NFT's. They form a great set of brilliant designs and will really help the band go forward this year as we reach out to different spaces. Each album cover has been so much fun to work on and we're really excited about what we've created. We really hope the fans will enjoy this ground-breaking, super-cool new innovation from Desperate Measures. View the Collection on Rarible.

Says Stevan Cvjetkovich of LuchaCoin "LuchaCoin is punk at its core, we've never been ones to stick to how things should be done. When we teamed up with Desperate Measures, we knew that we were on to something special. We can't wait for fans to get their hands on them and for the success they'll bring to the band."

At a time when record sales are being squeezed, and after a pandemic where artists were hit hard with shows being postponed or canceled, these exciting new NFT designs will help fund this independent band and will go towards them touring in 2022.

The Desperate Measures mini album NFT project was supported in collaboration with Music: Desperate Measures, Graphic Artist: Combination 13, Ai Motion effects: Jeffery Lando & LuchaCoin NFT.

Written on behalf of LuchaCoinNFT. Contact at www.LuchaCoinNFT.com

LINKS:

https://desperatemeasuresnz1.bandcamp.com/

https://rarible.com/luchacoin/owned

https://luchacoinnft.com/

Contact:

Stevan Cvjetkovich

4164561711

[email protected]

SOURCE LuchaCoinNFT
Oregon city sued by diocese over ordinance restricting church's homeless ministry

An Episcopal diocese and a congregation have filed a lawsuit against an Oregon city over a new ordinance that limits their ministrys ability to feed the homeless amid complaints from neighbors.

The Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and St. Timothys Episcopal Church filed the complaint against the city of Brookings last Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, Medford Division.

At issue is the Brookings City Councils unanimous passing of Ordinance 21-O-795 last year requiring food providers to get a conditional use permit to operate in a residential zone.

Even with the conditional use permit, which churches can apply for without a fee, St. Timothys would be limited to serving food to the needy for only two days per week.

Plaintiffs now face the decision of whether to exercise their core religious beliefs or face enforcement action by the City. Plaintiffs intend to continue exercising their core religious beliefs and serving meals at St. Timothys four days per week, the lawsuit reads.

Plaintiffs do not intend to restrict their religious exercise to two days or fewer per week because the community need is greater than serving meals only twice per week.

The legal document alleges that the citys approach changed in April 2021 after the city council received a petition from local residents criticizing the congregation of vagrants or

undesirables at St. Timothys.

Rather than create or expand social services for Brookings residents in need, the City took steps to remove their last safety net, beginning a campaign to force St. Timothys to significantly reduce the services that it has offered on its premises for decades, the lawsuit maintains.

The complaint accuses city officials of violating the federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, which, among other things, protects religious groups from discriminatory zoning codes.

The Rt. Rev. Diana Akiyama, bishop of the Oregon diocese, said in a statement that she believes the congregation is obeying the teachings of Jesus when they provide food and medical care to their community.

As Christians, we are called by faith to feed the hungry and welcome the stranger. Providing hospitality to all who enter St. Timothys in search of help is integral to our beliefs, the bishop contends.

Brookings City Manager Janelle Howard told Oregon Public Broadcasting that the new ordinance came in light of the April 2021 petition by residents who claimed to have been negatively impacted by the food ministry.

They were looking for some relief because it was becoming an impact to their particular neighborhood, whether they mentioned trespassing, littering, noise, Howard said last October. They were asking for some kind of relief from the city.

Howard argued that city officials had the authority to institute such restrictions on St. Timothys because it is located in a residential zone instead of a commercial zone.

If they were in commercial zones, there would be no limitations to the frequency, or the hours, or the number of days a week, Howard said.

In a statement, Rev. Bernie Lindley said that the church has been serving the community for decades, picking up the slack where the need exists and no one else is stepping in. He said the church has provided health clinics, food bank, vaccinations, showers, internet access and other services. He said the church grew its homeless feeding program when most other churches in the area suspended their free meal services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the dioceses statement, St. Timothys has refused to apply for a permit with the city because it limits how often meals can be served.

We have no intention of stopping now and were prepared to hold fast to our beliefs, Lindley said. We wont abandon the people of Brookings who need our help, even when were being threatened.

The church and diocese are represented by Stoel Rives LLP and the Oregon Justice Resource Center.
After weeks of verbal sparring over who or what is to blame for New Orleans surging violence, District Attorney Jason Williams and Police Superintendent Shaun Ferguson sat shoulder-to-shoulder Thursday and pledged to revive a multi-agency unit that was credited with disrupting gang-related bloodshed but was disbanded over its controversial tactics.

The plan broadly calls for the Violent Crime Abatement and Investigation Team that the New Orleans Police Department launched in 2020 to adopt the core tenets of what had once been known as the Multi-Agency Gang Unit.

Unleashed after the 2012 killing of a 5-year-old outside a birthday party, the unit paired up NOPD officers and Orleans Parish prosecutors with federal and state law enforcement agents to secure dozens of convictions against some of the citys most notorious criminals.

We are coming, Williams said during a press conference at Edna Karr High School, which lost 11th-grader Keyron Ross in a shooting last month. The full force of every law enforcement agency (in this area) is coming to bear at this surge.

Despite several years worth of reductions in homicides, the MAG Units work met stiff political resistance from some quarters, with opponents arguing that the cases it built tore apart Black families and often amounted to guilt by association. Without delving into specifics such as funding, manpower, and a timeline for when the unit would be brought back online, Ferguson on Thursday said he and Williams were finalizing a plan to ensure the new squad sticks around for the long-term.

Both Ferguson and Williams have been facing increased pressure to act as residents' outrage has grown over a surge in violent crime. For example, New Orleans saw homicides spike 64% in 2020, after registering the fewest murders in almost half a century the year before.

Then, in 2021, the city recorded 218 killings, which were the most since 2005. Meanwhile, since 2019, carjacking have increased 160%, with a brutal carjacking at the gas station outside the popular Costco warehouse on South Carrollton Avenue this week inflaming tensions.

At separate news conferences and appearances before the City Council, Williams had suggested that the NOPD wasnt making arrests in enough cases to positively affect the citys violent crime rate. Ferguson countered that prosecutors weren't convicting  or even trying  enough alleged criminals.

+7 Mayor LaToya Cantrell defends NOPD and chief amid crime spike: 'time to lend the support needed' A day after a City Council member called for new leadership of the New Orleans Police Department, Mayor LaToya Cantrell stood by Police Superi

On Thursday, the two men said they had resolved their differences and would work together to curb the carnage on the citys streets.

The bulk of Thursday's discussion centered on dedicating manpower and other resources toward incapacitating repeat offenders and their associates. That would largely involve replicating the work done by the MAG Unit in its heyday.

MAG Unit cases involved charging lots of defendants with conspiring to break the law, ranging from alleged kingpins to bit players. Local officers, state troopers, and agents from organizations like the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted elaborate, intelligence-driven investigations which charged a wide range of purported offenses, from using and selling drugs to armed robbery and murder.

Proponents of the approach correctly predicted it would lower the number of homicides in New Orleans relatively quickly. The city saw killings drop in five of the seven years following the MAG Units inception, culminating in a 47-year low of 121 murders in 2019.

But, despite the gains, New Orleans still remained one of Americas deadliest cities. The unit additionally drew criticism for quietly gaining access to sophisticated computer software that let investigators draw from a wide range of databases and social media platforms to connect victims, suspects and witnesses.

Critics also fretted that the unit was vulnerable to the kind of biased policing that led the NOPD to enter into a sweeping federal reform agreement that's been in effect for nearly a decade. Four years ago, as Louisiana lawmakers took steps to decrease the state's incarceration rate, the unit fell out of political favor and was disbanded.

Ferguson and Williams said Thursday they were unconcerned about the MAG Units complicated legacy. Williams, whose progressive agenda propelled him to the office of DA last year, said the criminal justice reform hes long supported has never been about going easy on violent criminals  but rather ensuring that the systems limited resources are spent on the worst of the worst.

The commitment to re-implement the MAG Units broad approach is consistent with that aim, Williams said.

Its not arresting for lower-level offenses, Ferguson added. These are serious offenses for which people should be held accountable.

Ferguson's remarks came a day after he held a press conference with Mayor LaToya Cantrell and asked City Council members to repeal or amend an ordinance limiting the use of video surveillance technology, saying it was an important tool for officers.

The rehashed, anti-gang initiative is part of a four-point plan presented by Williams and Ferguson that also emphasized prosecuting serial offenders who might not belong to a gang, continuing federal and state law enforcement partnerships, and calculating NOPD case clearance rates using FBI standards.

Under FBI rules, cases are considered cleared when the prime suspects are arrested or the suspects cant be arrested because they have died or there is another special circumstance. The NOPD will often tout cases in which they have obtained warrants to arrest suspects, though instead of calling those clearances, the agency labels them solves. Most members of the public dont grasp the difference, and Ferguson pledged to be transparent about the agencys FBI clearance rate whenever he mentions the departments higher but unofficial solve rate.

Williams  who had criticized the practice  said the adjustment is significant, allowing apples to apples comparisons between the NOPDs performance and that of its counterparts elsewhere.
South Carolina school districts can continue to decide whether to require masks in schools after the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied Gov. Henry McMaster's request to overturn the order blocking state officials and certain school districts from enforcing the General Assembly's school mask ban.

McMaster and Attorney General Alan Wilson were appealing a decision in a case brought by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of nine parents of children with disabilities who said their children couldn't attend school safely if masks aren't required since COVID-19 poses a greater risk to their health.

A district judge agreed with the parents in September and blocked enforcement of the state's budget-included rule.

In the 2-1 opinion issued Jan. 25, the appeals court dismissed McMaster and Wilson from the case, saying the parents didn't actually have standing to sue the two men. But the court's order still applies to Superintendent Molly Spearman and the seven school districts named in the suit, including Charleston and Greenville.

Effectively, this means school districts statewide can continue to decide whether to require masks.

Attorneys for the families chalked the appeals courts decision as a win.

This ruling is an important victory for the disability rights community, attorney Adam Protheroe said in a statement. The states budget rule was a barrier to protecting children with disabilities. The district court removed that barrier and, for all practical purposes, that decision stands.

McMaster has been an outspoken opponent of school mask requirements, vowing to take the fight to the U.S. Supreme Court. He believes parents should decide whether a child wears a mask.

A spokesman for McMaster did not respond to a request for comment on the appeal court's decision.

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In June 2021 the South Carolina Legislature added a one-year provision to the 2021-22 budget saying that if school districts mandated masks they risked losing their state funding. When lawmakers voted on it, COVID-19 cases were low.

But cases began rising again in July as the delta variant began sweeping through the state.

Some districts decided to require masks despite a warning from Spearman that doing so would put state funding in jeopardy.

Last September the S.C. Supreme Court heard two separate cases involving the budget rule, including one brought by Wilson against the City of Columbia after it tried to require masks in schools through local ordinances. In both cases, the court said the budget rule was constitutional.

The federal court order on the federal ACLU case came a few days after the second of the state cases was decided and opened the door for districts to require masks.

McMaster and Wilson appealed almost immediately. They objected on multiple grounds, arguing that the district court ruling essentially created a federal mask mandate in schools, and that the parents didn't have grounds to challenge the budget rule under the disability rights act.

During arguments in December, attorneys for the state said the budget rule doesn't actually ban masks, contrary to how state officials described the rule previously.

The appeals courts ruling deals largely with McMaster and Wilsons standing in the case, not the arguments for or against masks in schools. The majority opinion determined the parents didn't have standing to sue the two men and that they shouldnt be party to the lawsuit because neither has taken action to enforce the budget rule in a way that directly affects the children whose parents brought the suit.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) Power projects in the country do not have any coal shortage currently and these plants have got 25 per cent higher coal supply of 430.6 million tonnes in April-December 2021 compared to a year ago, Parliament was informed on Thursday.

"Presently, there is no shortage of coal for power plants in the country," Union Power Minister R K Singh on Thursday said in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

Also Read | Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Series Marketing Images Emerge Online Ahead of Its Launch.

According to the reply, the total quantity of coal despatched to the power sector by Coal India Ltd (CIL) and Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL) during April-December 2021 stood at about 430.6 million tonnes (MT), against about 344.2 MT in the year-ago period. It was about 375.2 MT during the corresponding period of 2019-20.

The despatch showed a growth of about 25 per cent with respect to the preceding year and by about 15 per cent with respect to 2019-20, it added.

Also Read | Harcox Finance: A DeFi Project Offering Accessible Scaling Solutions Arrives.

Further, Singh told the House that the coal import has reduced to 21.4 MT during 2021-22 (April-December) as against 35.1 MT during the same period of 2020-21 and 52.5 MT during the same period of 2019-20.

The shortfall in imported coal has been compensated by supply from domestic coal, he stated.

He also informed the House that as a result of the above measures, the coal stock available at the power plants has increased from 7.2 MT as on October 8, 2021, to about 25 MT as on January 26, 2022.

The Government of India has taken the following measures to increase the coal supply to power plants.

To address the issues of coal supplies to the power sector, an inter-ministerial sub-group meet regularly to take various operational decisions to enhance the supply of coal to thermal power plants (TPPs) as well as for meeting any contingent situations related to the power sector, including to alleviate critical coal stock position in power plants.

The group comprises representatives from ministries of power, coal and railways, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Coal India Limited (CIL) and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL).

The Ministry of Power (MoP) has constituted a core management team (CMT) with members from MoP, Railways, CEA, CIL, NTPC, DVC and POSOCO, to ensure close monitoring of coal stocks at TPPs. And, operational decisions are being taken in CMT to augment the supply of a sufficient quantity of coal to the TPPs.

The government has issued the revised coal stocking norms, which mandates the power plants to maintain sufficient stocks at all times to meet any contingent situation.

Power utilities import coal considering their requirement as well as cost economics.

Further, the Ministry of Power on December 7, 2021, advised power plants to import required coal for the blending purpose during 2022-23. HRS hrs

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Morocco was elected on Thursday member of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union for a three-year mandate after receiving more than two-thirds of the votes of the AU Executive Council.

The election of the Kingdom to the PSC is recognition of the efforts made by Moroccan diplomacy at the continental level under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, and reflects the importance of Moroccos role in the prevention and management of conflicts as well as in post-conflict reconstruction.

The election of Morocco and fourteen other members of the PSC was made during the 40th ordinary session of the AU Executive Council convening in Addis Ababa to prepare for the 35th African Summit due Feb.5-6 in the Ethiopian capital.

The PSC is the standing decision-making organ of the AU for the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts. It is a collective security and early warning arrangement intended to facilitate timely and efficient responses to conflict and crisis situations in Africa.

Moroccan foreign minister Nasser Bourita is representing the Kingdom in the AU Executive Council meeting which is gathering the foreign ministers of the African continent.

Besides the election of the PSC new members, the AU Executive Council discussed several issues related to the impacts of the covid-19 pandemic on the Continent, the vaccination against coronavirus in Africa, the increasing threats of insecurity from conflicts and terrorism, the unconstitutional changes of governments in some African countries and the socio-economic development in the continent.

The agenda also features the Unions funding, the Implementation of Agenda 2063, the Institutional Reforms, Gender & youth parity as well as support to education, science and innovation.
To the Editor:

Re ABC Suspends Goldberg for Comments About the Holocaust (Business, Feb. 3):

I accept Whoopi Goldbergs apology for her comments that the Holocaust was not about race. I forgive her. I do not believe she is an antisemite. But her failure to recognize the role of race and racial purity animating Nazi ideology reflects a woeful and increasing ignorance about the Holocaust among Americans.

According to a nationwide survey of millennials and Gen Z conducted in 2020 by the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, more than 60 percent of respondents were unaware that six million Jews were murdered in the Holocaust and nearly half could not name a single Nazi death camp. And more than 10 percent believed that Jews actually caused the Holocaust.

While we are rightly concerned about the impact of Holocaust denial, such ignorance may well lead us to the same frightening outcomes.
National Guard Specialist Simon Hammonds current mission doesnt have him fighting fires or coordinating a hurricane response. Instead, he has been ordered to teach math.

Hammond, who lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is filling in as a substitute teacher at Koogler Middle School in Aztec, 180 miles away. The school is one of many across the country experiencing staffing shortages as the omicron wave hobbled a return to in-person learning. Faced with a need for teachers, New Mexicos governor asked the National Guard for assistance.

For Hammond, who manages a computer architecture and research group at a Department of Energy lab, teaching arithmetic was a natural fit.

I do lots of math for work, so it's been a good match for me. If it'd been art or something like that, it probably would have been completely different, Hammond said.

Thus far, the kids have been welcoming.. I would say its pretty good. I mean, the kids are kind of curious because we're going in in our Army uniforms. So some of the kids are like, Oh man, this is really cool!

His mobilization may be unconventional, but its just one of the many jobs being filled by tens of thousands of guard members nationwide.

There are more than 19,000 National Guardsmen mobilized across the country to help states combat the virus as of Monday, according to data provided by the National Guard Bureau.

The Guard is providing doctors, nurses and support staff to hospitals overwhelmed with Covid patients, working in food banks, and helping care for the elderly.

The biggest mobilization is currently in Ohio, where more than 2,400 Guard members are on duty, followed by New York, then Texas.

#embed-20220201-guard-mobilizations-by-state iframe {width:1px;min-width:100%;}

The 19,000-member Covid response deployments are far larger than other mobilizations for recent national crises. For comparison, the Guard has more than 330 members currently responding to wildfires around the country, and nearly 10,000 members provided civil disturbance support after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol last year.

Ohio National Guard spokesperson Stephanie Beougher said that most guard members in the state have been assigned to Covid testing centers and about 60 hospitals across the state to help with clinical and general support.

In New York, more than 2,000 guard members are mobilized for Covid response, along with 62 members of the state volunteer New York Guard and 121 members of the New York Naval Militia.

About 22 states and Puerto Rico have active militias, or state guards, that are typically folded into state National Guard operations. New Yorks state guard is all volunteer, as is Ohios.

Eric Durr, director of public affairs for the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs, said that New York Guard members are deployed at 25 nursing homes and 28 vaccination sites, as well as testing sites.

At the nursing homes, Guard troops are performing duties similar to nurses, including helping with baths and meals and tending to the needs of residents.

Guard members are also providing assistance to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of New York City, supporting the recovery of remains.

In Idaho, Gov. Brad Little activated 75 National Guardsmen Monday to assist with the state health care system, as well as the states Department of Correction. That department is experiencing staff shortages due to Covid, according to a press release from the governors office.

And in New Mexico, there are 88 guard members in the classrooms as of Tuesday, according to the states Department of Education.

New Mexico Guard spokesperson Joseph Vigil said that this was the first time state guard members had served as substitute teachers, adding that the members must first pass qualification checks.

Before our Soldiers and Airmen enter the classrooms, we ensure they are credentialed, vetted and qualified  to include background checks  the same as every other substitute teacher is required to do so, Vigil wrote in an email to NBC News.

Guard mobilizations have followed the ebbs and flows of a virus that has moved across the country at different times and at different speeds. Pandemic mobilizations were at the highest at the start of the pandemic, reaching a peak of more than 47,000 members in May 2020, when personnel were sent to help overwhelmed hospitals and long-term care facilities.

#embed-20220201-national-guard-mobilizations-historical iframe {width:1px;min-width:100%;}

In the initial surge, Hammond was mobilized to put his data skills to use monitoring cases and helping the state predict where testing would be needed.

The number of guard mobilizations diminished when cases declined in the fall of 2020, but ramped up when a winter surge of the virus sent Covid deaths to the half-million mark and guardsmen were needed to help with the start of the vaccination rollout, which began that December.

National Guard mobilizations have been on the rise since last fall, when the delta variant surged in the U.S., and that number has continued to climb during the latest omicron surge.

In New Mexico, the guard substitute program is expected to run through March, according to Judy Robinson, a spokesperson for the states Department of Education.

New cases have declined in Ohio in the last two weeks, and Beougher, the states guard spokesperson, said that hospital and testing missions will be coming to a close in portions of the state, leading to a drawdown in the coming weeks.

The Ohio National Guard members who served their community during a time of great need during the Covid surge will be returning to their families, civilian obligations, and military training, Beougher said in an email.
World food commodity prices rose in January, mainly due to reduced supply of vegetable oils. Such data was distributed on Thursday by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

The average value of the FAO Food Price Index, which reflects monthly changes in international prices for basic foodstuffs, was 135.7 points in January, which is 1.1% higher than in December.

The price index for vegetable oils increased by 4.2%, reaching an all-time high.

Vegetable oil prices have risen to new record levels as a result of declining export opportunities, as well as other supply-limiting factors such as labor shortages and adverse weather conditions. There is reason to believe that the effects of these factors will not be overcome in the short term, Boubaker Ben Belhassen, Director of the FAO Trade and Markets Division, said in a press release from the organization.

Price indices for cereals, dairy products and meat also rose last month. The sugar price index was the only indicator that fell by 3.1% in January compared to the previous month, including due to favorable production forecasts in key exporting countries - India and Thailand.
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Federal prosecutors have dismissed a two-year-old case against a former civilian worker at Ellsworth Air Force Base accused of sexually abusing a woman multiple times.

Judge Jeffrey Viken signed the order dismissing the case without prejudice and ordered the exoneration of Anthony Joseph Terentino while setting conditions of release.

Terentino was charged with aggravated sexual abuse, which accused him of using force to make the woman engage in a sex act and abusive sexual contact in October 2020. He faced life in prison if convicted.

He was accused of abusing a woman over three separate incidents on the base between December 2018 and May 2019.

Terentino worked as a civilian employee at the base from 2014 to 2019. The case was being investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.
Yet another effort has emerged by Trump allies that would have sought to harness the powers of the state to probe election fraud claims  this one to have officials search 'raw signals data' collected by the National Security Agency to support a claim of a foreign altering of the vote count.

The effort is described in a December 18, 2020 memo that made it into the hands of at least one Republican senator as well as the Senate office of the Senate Republican who led a hearing into election fraud claims.

The memo, revealed by the Washington Post, claims 'expert' Defense Department legal opinion that provides 'sufficient predicate to form search inquiries against NSA unprocessed raw signals data.'

It says the use of NSA data would 'likely identify hard evidence of foreign involvement in DOD [Department of Defense] data which will support all other efforts to reverse the fraud.'

It asked former President Donald Trump, who at the time was pursuing a multi-pronged election overturn effort, to instruct acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller to bring in three named individuals as a 'core advisory team' on 'foreign interference in the 2020 election'  although it also said the team would be seeking evidence of such interference.

A memo circulated by Trump allies in January 2020 called for using NSA raw signals data seeking 'hard evidence' of foreign interference in 'altering the vote'

One of those individuals, Michael Del Rosso, a former congressional candidate in Virginia who says he served as a Donald Trump surrogate, gave the document to Republican Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.).

Cramer told the Post Del Rosso provided it to him following a Jan. 4th meeting at the Trump Hotel with about two dozen people to discuss election fraud allegations two days before Congress was to meet to count the electoral votes.

Also attending was Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.). Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), who chaired the Senate Homeland Security Committee, attended by video link, according to participants.

Cramer, who would vote two days later to certify votes that made Joe Biden president, said presenters discussed countries such as China and Venezuela interfering in the election  claims that had been put forward by Trump allies including 'Kraken' lawyer Sidney Powell at the time.

'They wanted to get the machines,' Cramer told the paper. He said there were a 'lot of theories but not a lot of evidence.'

Senator Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) says he got the memo a day after attending a meeting at the Trump hotel Jan. 4th. He said at the event there were 'lot of theories but not a lot of evidence'

Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) also attended, and her office got a copy

MyPillow exec Mike Lindell organized a Trump Hotel meeting that came shortly before a participant provided a memo to Senate offices outlining a plan to use NSA signals data in search of evidence of foreign election interference

Sen. Ron Johnson attended the meeting virtually, participants said

Former Virginia congressional candidate Michael Del Rosso gave the memo to Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.)

MyPillow exec Mike Lindell organized the Jan. 4 Trump hotel meeting, according to the Post

Lindell was pictured at the White House with a memo that identified Frank Colon 'acting National Security.' Another document, the December memo, identifies Colon as part of a 'core advisory team' on foreign interference. Colon has denied knowledge of both matters

About two dozen Trump backers met at Trump's DC hotel Jan. 4th

Also attending was MyPillow executive Mike Lindell, who was spotted at the White House during Trump's final days.

The memo provides a vague remedy for what its authors believed would be uncovered. 'If evidence of foreign interference is found the team would generate a classified DOD legal finding to support next steps to defend the Constitution in a manner superior to current civilian-only judicial remedies (which should still be pursued in parallel),' it said.

Miller told the paper he wasn't aware of the proposal, Colon said he did not have any knowledge of the memo that named him, and a third official, former NSC official Richard Higgins, didn't respond to the paper's request for comment.

Colon also appeared in a memo that Lindell was photographed holding while visiting the White House just days before Trump left office. That memo contained the phrase 'insurrection act now as a result of the assault,' in likely reference to Jan. 6th. It says 'Frank Colon as acting National Security, describing him as a lawyer with 'cyber  expertise' associated with 'Fort Mead[e].'

But when New York Magazine contacted a man fitting Colon's description, he said he was 'just a government employee who does work for the Army' and seemed confused as to why he would be identified with such a senior role.
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Gold Royalty Corp. ("GRC" or the "Company") (NYSE American: GROY) wishes to provide notice that the Company will be implementing an additional virtual option to its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (the "Meeting"), which will be held at 1000-925 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada at 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) on February 9, 2022. The virtual option will allow shareholders to attend and participate in the Meeting via the internet.

To ensure the health and safety of all attendees, GRC reserves the right to take any additional cautionary measures deemed to be appropriate, necessary or advisable in relation to the Meeting in response to further developments in the COVID-19 pandemic, including limiting the number of persons who may be allowed in a single room for the Meeting to allow for any measures that may be required or recommended by public health authorities in connection with gatherings of persons.

HOW TO VOTE BEFORE THE MEETING

Before the Meeting, shareholders of record as of December 13, 2021 (the Record Date) may vote by completing the form of proxy in accordance with the instructions provided therein. Non-registered (beneficial) shareholders should carefully follow all instructions provided by their intermediaries to ensure that their GRC shares are voted at the Meeting. Please refer to the Company's management information circular dated December 14, 2021 (the "Information Circular") under the heading "Voting by Non-Registered Holders" for additional details on how to vote by proxy before the Meeting and the matters to be voted upon. A copy of the Information Circular is available on the Company's SEDAR profile on www.sedar.com. The deadline to vote your proxy before the Meeting is 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) on February 7, 2022.

HOW TO ATTEND THE MEETING VIA INTERNET

The webcast will allow shareholders who are attending virtually to listen to the proceedings. The webcast will also allow registered shareholders and duly appointed proxyholders to ask questions and submit votes through the web-based platform. Details for shareholders and interested parties who wish to attend the virtual meeting are set forth below. Participants are strongly encouraged to login at least 15 minutes before the start of the Meeting.

Online attendance details are as follows:

Date: Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Time: 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time URL: https://virtual-meetings.tsxtrust.com/1267 Password: royalty2022 (case sensitive)

Instructions on joining the virtual webcast:

Type https://virtual-meetings.tsxtrust.com/1267 in your web browser (not a Google search) at least 15 minutes before the Meeting starts. You will need the latest versions of Chrome, Safari, Edge or Firefox. Please do not use Internet Explorer. Click on "I am a Guest" if you are an interested party or a shareholder not intending to vote.

In order to streamline the virtual meeting process, the Company strongly encourages shareholders to vote in advance of the Meeting using the Voting Instruction Form ("VIF") and Form of Proxy mailed to them with the meeting materials. Please be reminded that meeting materials previously distributed to shareholders will not be updated to reflect the addition of a virtual option.

Registered Shareholders entitled to vote at the Meeting may attend and vote at the Meeting virtually by following the steps listed below:

Type in https://virtual-meetings.tsxtrust.com/1267 on your browser at least 15 minutes before the Meeting starts. Click on "I have a control number". Enter your 12-digit control number (on your proxy form). Enter the password: royalty2022 (case sensitive). When the ballot is opened, click on the "Voting" icon. To vote, simply select your voting direction from the options shown on screen and click Submit. A confirmation message will appear to show your vote has been received.

Beneficial Shareholders entitled to vote at the Meeting may vote at the Meeting virtually by following the steps listed below:

Appoint yourself as proxyholder by writing your name in the space provided on the form of proxy or VIF. Sign and send it to your intermediary, following the voting deadline and submission instructions on the VIF. Obtain a control number by contacting TSX Trust Company by emailing [email protected] the "Request for Control Number" form, which can be found here https://tsxtrust.com/resource/en/75. Type in https://virtual-meetings.tsxtrust.com/1267 on your browser at least 15 minutes before the Meeting starts. Click on "I have a control number". Enter the control number provided by [email protected] Enter the password: royalty2022 (case sensitive). When the ballot is opened, click on the "Voting" icon. To vote, simply select your voting direction from the options shown on screen and click Submit. A confirmation message will appear to show your vote has been received.

If you are a registered shareholder and you want to appoint someone else (other than the management nominees) to vote online at the Meeting, you must first submit your proxy indicating who you are appointing. You or your appointee must then register with TSX Trust in advance of the Meeting by emailing [email protected] the "Request for Control Number" form, which can be found here https://tsxtrust.com/resource/en/75.

If you are a non-registered shareholder and want to vote online at the Meeting, you must appoint yourself as proxyholder and register with TSX Trust in advance of the Meeting by emailing [email protected] the "Request for Control Number" form, which can be found here https://tsxtrust.com/resource/en/75. Shareholders who have any questions or require further information with regard to voting their shares or attending the Meeting should contact TSX Trust, toll-free in North America at 1-866-600-5869 or by email at [email protected].

About Gold Royalty Corp.

Gold Royalty Corp. is a gold-focused royalty company offering creative financing solutions to the metals and mining industry. Its mission is to acquire royalties, streams and similar interests at varying stages of the mine life cycle to build a balanced portfolio offering near, medium and longer-term attractive returns for its investors. Gold Royalty's diversified portfolio currently consists of net smelter return royalties on gold properties located in the Americas.

SOURCE Gold Royalty Corp.
A floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel exploded offshore Nigeria early on Wednesday with 10 crew members on board, the company operating the vessel said on Thursday.

The supertanker-sized vessel Trinity Spirit, capable of producing 22,000 barrels per day (bpd), exploded on Wednesday morning local time, TankerTrackers.com reported today.

The vessel has reportedly sunk, but visual confirmation that the tanker had sunk has yet to be received, according to TankerTrackers.

At this time there are no reported fatalities but we can confirm that there were 10 crewmen on board the vessel prior to the incident and we are prioritising investigations with respect to their safety and security, Ikemefuna Okafor, chief executive officer of the Nigerian company Shebah Exploration & Production Company Ltd (SEPCOL), said in a statement carried by Reuters.

Trinity Spirit held around 50,000 barrels of oil in storage, but it was not producing crude oil from the Ukpokiti oilfield in the block OML 108 offshore Nigeria when it exploded, an industry source from Nigerias oil sector told Reuters.

We have duly notified all relevant authorities and we appeal to the members of the public to stay away from the area while our crisis management team continues to monitor the situation and update all stakeholders with new information as the investigation evolves, said SEPCOL, as carried by Nigerian outlet Business Day.

It was not immediately clear how much the damage was or how much oil has spilled in the nearby waters, while fears mount about possible casualties.

The vessel is estimated to have last flared gas at the end of July 2021, TankerTrackers said. This suggests that the Trinity Spirit had not produced anything since that date, considering that gas flaring during crude production is widespread throughout the region, TankerTrackers noted.

This would be the sixth major oil spill in Nigeria so far this year, the tanker-tracking services added.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
A 2018 photo of a displacement site in Drodo, Djugu Territory, where another deadly attack occurred late last year.  UNHCR/Natalia Micevic

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are horrified by the armed attack on the site for internally displaced people (IDPs) in Plaine Savo Djugu Territory, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

At least 50 people, including more than a dozen children, were killed and more than 40 others injured during Tuesday's attack in Ituri Province.

The agencies condemn this heinous attack in the strongest terms and remind all parties of their obligations under international law to protect and safeguard civilian lives at all times.

IOM and UNHCR teams in Ituri are coordinating with other humanitarian actors to scale up the emergency response.

The site, which is managed by UNHCR and partner CARITAS, hosted more than 20,000 IDPs including more than 13,000 children. Many of sites residents have fled to Bule town, three kilometers away.

The attack, thought to have been carried out by a non-state armed group, occurred less than three months after the last deadly attack on the displacement sites of Drodro and Tche in the same area of Djugu Territory. Some 44 people were killed in that attack, which forced tens of thousands of people to flee.

Around 230,000 people live in more than 60 displacement sites across the province managed by IOM and UNHCR. Both agencies support the government to provide overall management of these sites and to coordinate humanitarian assistance and protection.

The DRC hosts 5.6 million displaced persons, most of whom reside in the eastern part of the country, in North and South Kivu, Ituri, and Tanganyika provinces.

For more information on this topic, please contact:

UNHCR:

IOM:
Turkey said it wont back down from clinching new defense deals with Ukraine, signing an agreement for the joint production of Turkish drones that have drawn Russias ire.

Military cooperation between Ankara and Kyiv isnt intended to target Russia and wont be disrupted in order to please it, President Recep Tayyip Erdogans communications director Fahrettin Altun said.

The remarks set the tone for Erdogans visit to Ukraine on Thursday, when the drone deal was announced amid fears within NATO that Russia intends to attack its neighbor. Moscow denies its planning an invasion.

We have signed an agreement today which will significantly expand production of unmanned aerial vehicles designed by Turkish drone maker Bayraktar, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said at a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart.

Ukrainian officials said land had been allocated for the project and that the next generation of the aircraft would use engines made in Ukraine.

Ukraine has bought dozens of the Bayraktar TB2 armed drones since 2019 and used it for the first time last year to destroy an artillery unit in the breakaway Donbas region.

A NATO power, Turkey has emerged as a key supporter of Ukraine in recent years, drawing a rebuke from Russia. Turkey also remains a vocal critic of Russias 2014 annexation of Crimea, where it is concerned about the fate of Turkish communities. Closer ties saw a boom in bilateral trade but Turkey sees further strategic value in an improved relationship with Ukraine, a possible source of technology and knowhow for its growing defense industry.

Turkey has sought to leverage its ties by offering to mediate between Russia and Ukraine to defuse the latest border crisis between the two. Turkey might host Putin following Erdogans Ukraine visit but the date of such a summit has yet to be decided, Altun said.

Russias military buildup to the east of Ukraine has increased concerns among NATO members that it could be preparing to invade. The Kremlin denies it has any such plans, but says it sees a rising risk that Ukraine will attack Russian-backed separatists in the countrys east.

Erdogan has also managed to maintain close enough ties with Russias President Vladimir Putin to anger some of Turkeys NATO allies, including the U.S.

Erdogans decision in 2017 to purchase the S-400 air defense system from Russia resulted in U.S. sanctions targeting Turkeys defense industry, but didnt persuade it to back down.

Altun said deals with Ukraine wouldnt be any different.

Were not signing agreements for collaboration to target another country. Russia is among the first states to know that, Altun told Bloomberg late Wednesday. The deals we have made and the ones well clinch with Ukraine arent directly linked to the current crisis.

Turkeys exports to Ukraine nearly doubled in five years to $2.6 billion last year, while imports rose to $4.4 billion from $2.8 billion during the same period. The two countries now want to increase trade volume to $10 billion a year. Turkish shipments to Ukraine last year were led by food textiles and machinery, including aircraft and land vehicles and steel and iron.

But there is more to the relationship than just exports. For Ukraine, the unmanned aircraft and the Turkish partnership are vital to defend its territory against Russia. Turkey, on the other hand, sees the possibility to co-produce space-launch rockets similar to Ukraines Zenit-2 and transfer know-how on engine technology, a key bottleneck for the Turkish defense industry.
Phoenix's new Office of Accountability and Transparency will not launch its own official investigations into the city's police for another six to eight months, newly hired director Roger Smith said in his first interview with The Arizona Republic on Wednesday.

The Office was approved by Phoenix City Council last May to investigate claims of police misconduct, including police shootings and in-custody deaths. After a nationwide search, Smith was selected in November to serve as its first director. His first day in the new role was Dec. 6.

Smith previously worked as a prosecutor with the Manhattan District Attorneys Office, a trial attorney and for the New York City Civilian Complaint Review Board. Before taking on the new role in Phoenix, Smith was administrator of the city of Cleveland's Office of Professional Standards since 2018, conducting investigations into misconduct complaints against Cleveland police.

Initial interview requests with Smith were denied until Phoenix city officials on Wednesday morning arranged one-on-one interviews between Smith and various members of the press. Each reporter was given only 10 minutes to ask their questions.

Smith, during his interview with The Republic, said he remained the Office's only staff member and was in the process of hiring more, which he estimated would take between six and eight months to completely fill. He previously said staff would include "effective" investigators and a research analyst.

The Office until then would not launch its own investigations into Phoenix police, Smith told The Republic. In the meantime, they may monitor or participate in other investigations depending on staffing levels, he added.

Smith on Wednesday also said the Office's investigations would focus on cases arising during his leadership as opposed to cases that began before he was selected as director.

"But to the extent that there's anything meaningful that can be gleaned from a past case, that's something that I might take up with the City Manager to see how exactly we should approach that," Smith said.

Story continues

While the Office has yet to formally explore any cases, Smith said he's researched incidents involving Phoenix police on his own, including when an officer on Monday hit and arrested a 13-year-old girl while responding to a separate incident that did not involve her.

'It was terrifying': 13-year-old girl punched by Phoenix police speaks out on arrest

"My initial thought is that that's a terrible incident, it's a terrible incident because it appears avoidable from what you see," Smith said, later adding that he's only seen video of the arrest. "But exactly who's responsible? Exactly what should result from it? Those are the kinds of things that you can only really get into after you've had an opportunity to gain all of the facts and learn all of the important things about that incident that you need to know."

Smith said he's been able to speak with some Phoenix residents who had concerns about Phoenix police, but those conversations were not being treated as formal complaints at this point. When asked what residents who would like to reach the Office should do, Smith offered the Office's phone number: 602-534-8263.

"I am happy to have conversations about any incidents that people want to tell me about," he said. "But the difference at this point is that those conversations would not be formal investigations at this point because I am a staff of one."

Reach the reporter at chelsea.curtis@arizonarepublic.com or follow her on Twitter @curtis_chels.

Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Director Roger Smith says OAT won't start investigations until staffed
A woman looks at wildfires tearing through a forest in the region of Chefchaouen in northern Morocco on Aug. 15, 2021. One of the effects of global warming will be more heat waves in some areas, a risk factor for wildfires.

Global warming, the gradual heating of Earth's surface, oceans and atmosphere, is caused by human activity, primarily the burning of fossil fuels that pump carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Already, the consequences and effects of global warming are measurable and visible on the planet.

"We can observe this happening in real time in many places," Josef Werne, a professor of geology and environmental science at the University of Pittsburgh, told Live Science. "Ice is melting in both polar ice caps and mountain glaciers. Lakes around the world, including Lake Superior, are warming rapidly  in some cases faster than the surrounding environment. Animals are changing migration patterns and plants are changing the dates of activity," such as trees budding their leaves earlier in the spring and dropping them later in the fall.

Here is an in-depth look at the ongoing effects of global warming.

Global warming increases average temperatures and temperature extremes

(Image credit: NOAA)

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One of the most immediate and obvious consequences of global warming is the increase in temperatures around the world. The average global temperature has increased by about 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit (0.8 degrees Celsius) over the past 100 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Since record keeping began in 1895, the hottest year on record worldwide was 2016, according to NOAA and NASA data (opens in new tab). That year Earth's surface temperature was 1.78 degrees F (0.99 degrees C) warmer than the average across the entire 20th century. Before 2016, 2015 was the warmest year on record, globally. And before 2015? Yep, 2014. In fact, all 10 of the warmest years on record have occurred since 2005, which tied with 2013 as the 10th-warmest year on record, according to NOAAs Global Climate Report 2021 (opens in new tab). Rounding out the top 6 hottest years on record across the globe are (in order of hottest to not as hot): 2020, 2019, 2015, 2017 and 2021.

For the contiguous United States and Alaska, 2016 was the second-warmest year on record and the 20th consecutive year that the annual average surface temperature exceeded the 122-year average since record keeping began, according to NOAA. Shattered heat records in the U.S. are increasingly becoming the norm: June 2021, for example, saw the warmest temperatures on record for that month for 15.2%of the contiguous U.S. That's the largest extent of record warm temperatures ever recorded in the country, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information (opens in new tab).

Global warming increases extreme weather events

Global warming is expected to intensify hurricanes. Shown here, an aerial view of flood waters from Hurricane Delta on Oct. 10, 2020, surrounding structures destroyed by Hurricane Laura, in Creole, Louisiana. (Image credit: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

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As global average temperatures warm, weather patterns are changing. An immediate consequence of global warming is extreme weather.

These extremes come in a lot of different flavors. Paradoxically, one effect of climate change can be colder-than-normal winters in some areas.

Changes in climate can cause the polar jet stream  the boundary between the cold North Pole air and the warm equatorial air  to migrate south, bringing with it cold, Arctic air. This is why some states can have a sudden cold snap or colder-than-normal winter, even during the long-term trend of global warming, Werne explained.



"Climate is, by definition, the long-term average of weather, over many years. One cold (or warm) year or season has little to do with overall climate. It is when those cold (or warm) years become more and more regular that we start to recognize it as a change in climate rather than simply an anomalous year of weather," he said.



Global warming is also changing other extreme weather. According to the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory of NOAA (opens in new tab), hurricanes are likely to become more intense, on average, in a warming world. Most computer models suggest that hurricane frequency will stay about the same (or even decrease), but those storms that do form will have the capacity to drop more rain due to the fact that warmer air holds more moisture.

"And even if they become less frequent globally, hurricanes could still become more frequent in some particular areas," said atmospheric scientist Adam Sobel, author of "Storm Surge: Hurricane Sandy, Our Changing Climate, and Extreme Weather of the Past and Future (opens in new tab)" (HarperWave, 2014). "Additionally, scientists are confident that hurricanes will become more intense due to climate change." This is because hurricanes get their energy from the temperature difference between the warm tropical ocean and the cold upper atmosphere. Global warming increases that temperature difference.



"Since the most damage by far comes from the most intense hurricanes  such as typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines in 2013  this means that hurricanes could become overall more destructive," said Sobel, a Columbia University professor in the departments of Earth and Environmental Sciences, and Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics. (Hurricanes are called typhoons in the western North Pacific, and they're called cyclones in the South Pacific and Indian oceans.)



What's more, hurricanes of the future will be hitting shorelines that are already prone to flooding due to the sea-level rise caused by climate change. This means that any given storm will likely cause more damage than it would have in a world without global warming.



Lightning is another weather feature that is being affected by global warming. According to a 2014 study, a 50% increase in the number of lightning strikes within the United States is expected by 2100 if global temperatures continue to rise. The researchers of the study found a 12% increase in lightning activity for every 1.8 degree F (1 degree C) of warming in the atmosphere.



NOAA established the U.S. Climate Extremes Index (opens in new tab) (CEI) in 1996 to track extreme weather events. The number of extreme weather events that are among the most unusual in the historical record, according to the CEI, has been rising over the last four decades.



Scientists project that extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, blizzards and rainstorms will continue to occur more often and with greater intensity due to global warming, according to Climate Central (opens in new tab). Climate models forecast that global warming will cause climate patterns worldwide to experience significant changes. These changes will likely include major shifts in wind patterns, annual precipitation and seasonal temperatures variations. These impacts vary by location and geography. For example, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (opens in new tab), the eastern United States has been trending wetter over time, while the West  and particularly the Southwest  have become increasingly dry.



Because high levels of greenhouse gases are likely to remain in the atmosphere for many years, these changes are expected to last for several decades or longer, according to the EPA.

Global warming melts ice

In this aerial view, icebergs and meltwater are seen in front of the retreating Russell Glacier on Sept. 8, 2021, near Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. (Image credit: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

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One of the primary manifestations of climate change so far is melt. North America, Europe and Asia have all seen a trend toward less snow cover between 1960 and 2015, according to 2016 research published in the journal Current Climate Change Reports. (opens in new tab) According to the National Snow and Ice Data Center, there is now 10% less permafrost (opens in new tab), or permanently frozen ground, in the Northern Hemisphere than there was in the early 1900s. The thawing of permafrost can cause landslides and other sudden land collapses. It can also release long-buried microbes, as in a 2016 case when a cache of buried reindeer carcasses thawed and caused an outbreak of anthrax.



One of the most dramatic effects of global warming is the reduction in Arctic sea ice. Sea ice hit record-low extents in both the fall and winter of 2015 and 2016, meaning that at the time when the ice is supposed to be at its peak, it was lagging. The melt means there is less thick sea ice that persists for multiple years. That means less heat is reflected back into the atmosphere by the shiny surface of the ice and more is absorbed by the comparatively darker ocean, creating a feedback loop that causes even more melt, according to NASA's Operation IceBridge (opens in new tab).



Glacial retreat, too, is an obvious effect of global warming. Only 25 glaciers bigger than 25 acres are now found in Montana's Glacier National Park, where about 150 glaciers were once found, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. A similar trend is seen in glacial areas worldwide. According to a 2016 study in the journal Nature Geoscience, there is a 99% likelihood that this rapid retreat is due to human-caused climate change. Some glaciers retreated up to 15 times as much as they would have without global warming, those researchers found.

Sea levels and ocean acidification

This globe shows sea-surface height anomalies measured by satellite instruments between June 5-15, 2021. Red-orange indicates regions where sea level was higher than normal, and blue shows regions where it was lower than normal. (Image credit: Joshua Stevens, using modified Copernicus Sentinel data (2021) processed by the European Space Agency. and partners at NASA/JPL-Caltech.)

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In general, as ice melts, sea levels rise. According to a 2021 report by the World Meteorological Organization (opens in new tab), the pace of sea level rise doubled from 0.08 inches (2.1 millimeters) per year between 1993 and 2002 to 0.17 inches (4.4 mm) per year between 2013 and 2021.

Melting polar ice in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, coupled with melting ice sheets and glaciers across Greenland, North America, South America, Europe and Asia, are expected to raise sea levels significantly. Global sea levels have risen about 8 inches since 1870, according to the EPA, and the rate of increase is expected to accelerate in the coming years. If current trends continue, many coastal areas, where roughly half of the Earth's human population lives, will be inundated.

Researchers project that by 2100, average sea levels will be 2.3 feet (.7 meters) higher in New York City, 2.9 feet (0.88 m) higher at Hampton Roads, Virginia, and 3.5 feet (1.06 m) higher at Galveston, Texas, the EPA reports. According to an IPCC report (opens in new tab), if greenhouse gas emissions remain unchecked, global sea levels could rise by as much as 3 feet (0.9 meters) by 2100. That estimate is an increase from the estimated 0.9 to 2.7 feet (0.3 to 0.8 meters) that was predicted in the 2007 IPCC report for future sea-level rise.

Sea level isn't the only thing changing for the oceans due to global warming. As levels of CO2 increase, the oceans absorb some of that gas, which increases the acidity of seawater. Werne explains it this way: "When you dissolved CO2 in water, you get carbonic acid. This is the same exact thing that happens in cans of soda. When you pop the top on a can of Dr Pepper, the pH is 2  quite acidic."

Since the Industrial Revolution began in the early 1700s, the acidity of the oceans has increased about 25 percent, according to the EPA. "This is a problem in the oceans, in large part, because many marine organisms make shells out of calcium carbonate (think corals, oysters), and their shells dissolve in acid solution," said Werne. "So as we add more and more CO2 to the ocean, it gets more and more acidic, dissolving more and more shells of sea creatures. It goes without saying that this is not good for their health."

If current ocean acidification trends continue, coral reefs are expected to become increasingly rare in areas where they are now common, including most U.S. waters, the EPA reports. In 2016 and 2017, portions of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia were hit with bleaching, a phenomenon in which coral eject their symbiotic algae. Bleaching is a sign of stress from too-warm waters, unbalanced pH or pollution; coral can recover from bleaching, but back-to-back episodes make recovery less likely.

Plants and animals

The effects of global warming on the Earth's ecosystems are expected to be profound and widespread. Many species of plants and animals are already moving their range northward or to higher altitudes as a result of warming temperatures, according to a report from the National Academy of Sciences.

"They are not just moving north, they are moving from the equator toward the poles. They are quite simply following the range of comfortable temperatures, which is migrating to the poles as the global average temperature warms," Werne said. Ultimately, he said, this becomes a problem when the rate of climate change velocity (how fast a region changes put into a spatial term) is faster than the rate that many organisms can migrate. Because of this, many animals may not be able to compete in the new climate regime and may go extinct.

Additionally, migratory birds and insects are now arriving in their summer feeding and nesting grounds several days or weeks earlier than they did in the 20th century, according to the EPA.

Warmer temperatures will also expand the range of many disease-causing pathogens that were once confined to tropical and subtropical areas, killing off plant and animal species that formerly were protected from disease.

A 2020 study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (opens in new tab) suggested that 1 in every 3 species of plant and animal are at risk of extinction by 2070 due to climate change.

Social effects

As dramatic as the effects of climate change are expected to be on the natural world, the projected changes to human society may be even more devastating.

Agricultural systems will likely be dealt a crippling blow. Though growing seasons in some areas will expand, the combined impacts of drought, severe weather, lack of accumulated snowmelt, greater number and diversity of pests, lower groundwater tables and a loss of arable land could cause severe crop failures and livestock shortages worldwide.

North Carolina State University (opens in new tab) also notes that carbon dioxide is affecting plant growth. Though CO2 can increase the growth of plants, the plants may become less nutritious.

This loss of food security may, in turn, create havoc in international food markets and could spark famines, food riots, political instability and civil unrest worldwide, according to a number of analyses from sources as diverse as the U.S Department of Defense, the Center for American Progress and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.

In addition to less nutritious food, the effect of global warming on human health is also expected to be serious. The American Medical Association has reported an increase in mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever, as well as a rise in cases of chronic conditions like asthma, most likely as a direct result of global warming. The 2016 outbreak of Zika virus, a mosquito-borne illness, highlighted the dangers of climate change. The disease causes devastating birth defects in fetuses when pregnant women are infected, and climate change could make higher-latitude areas habitable for the mosquitoes that spread the disease, experts said. Longer, hotter summers could also lead to the spread of tick-borne illnesses.

Further reading on the impacts of global warming

Many governments and agencies keep up-to-date information on climate change research and statistics online. The most comprehensive and in-depth global reports are produced by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which released its Sixth Assessment Report (opens in new tab) on the science of climate change in 2021.



For a historical look at the effects of climate change on Earth (and how modern warming compares), read Peter Brannen's "The Ends of the Earth: Volcanic Apocalypses, Lethal Oceans, and Our Quest to Understand Earths Past Mass Extinctions (opens in new tab)" (Ecco, 2017).

For more on the potential impacts of climate change in urban environments, the freely available book chapter Climate Change and its Impacts in the book "Climate Change Resilience in the Urban Environment" (IOP Publishing, 2017) covers the challenges that lay ahead for human populations.

Finally, for a psychological deep-dive on why all of this bad news is hard to take in, try "Don't Even Think About It: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Ignore Climate Change (opens in new tab)" (Bloomsbury USA, 2015) by climate activist and communicator George Marshall.

Additional resources

This NASA page (opens in new tab) includes a series of visualizations that illustrate how some of Earth's key climate indicators  sea ice, sea level, global temperature and carbon dioxide  are changing over time.

includes a series of visualizations that illustrate how some of Earth's key climate indicators  sea ice, sea level, global temperature and carbon dioxide  are changing over time. This NOAA sea-level rise learning module (opens in new tab) includes educational videos, background for teachers, learning objectives and more.

includes educational videos, background for teachers, learning objectives and more. ClimateBrief has gathered (opens in new tab) 10 of the best climate change videos on YouTube.
At first, it may seem far-fetched, but this startup company is run by a former NASA administrator, Steve Jurczyk. He was NASA 's associate administrator starting in 2018, and then became the agency's administrator after the inauguration of President Joe Biden. Last May, Jurczyk retired from NASA, but could not leave Space behind him.Instead of just looking up, he teamed up with three entrepreneurs who are also experts in the space industry, and then created a new company.Based in Maryland, Quantum Space is focused on the Moon and things related to it.Coincidentally, NASA is also interested in the Moon , so the startup has its sights on a tangible target and has presented a few ideas on how it can help others and also generate revenue for itself.Quantum Space's CEO and President, Steve Jurczyk, stated that he and his colleagues have envisioned multiple types of vehicles that can be built in the coming years, as SpaceNews notes. The first of them is described as a robotic outpost, which would operate as a communications relay.As its creators explain, the area between regular Earth orbits and the Moon could use a system like the Internet. Coincidentally, NASA has already thought about the matter, and their proposal was called LunaNET, and it was an internet-like system for the Moon. Jurczyk believes that the company he is running could get involved in the field.Moreover, the robotic outpost might collect data from the Moon, as well as provide assistance when ships would require refueling or even store packages that might be moved from one party to another, like in a relay race, but in space While NASA might be its first big customer, Quantum Space might also be contacted by other firms involved in space tourism. Since the latter is still in its infancy, and only consists of brief orbits of the Earth at an incredibly high price, there is room for development in both directions.
Thomas de Waal: More storm clouds gather over Armenia, Azerbaijan

Armenia FM to Jordan counterpart and deputy PM: Maximalist policy of Azerbaijan needs to be restrained

Armenia former deputy PM Tigran Avinyan is appointed Yerevan Deputy Mayor

Yerevan market explosion criminal proceedings: 1 of 3 arrested accused is released

Yerevan city council holding special session, appointing ex-deputy PM Tigran Avinyan as deputy mayor is on agenda

Fly Arna receives its second Airbus A320 aircraft

Armenia defense ministry dismisses Azerbaijan MOD statement disseminated a while ago

MOD: Azerbaijan army fires at Armenia combat positions, at around 7:40am

Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan stalls repatriation of Armenian POWs

Newspaper: Armenia PM, parliament majority faction have closed discussion day after military operations

PM Pashinyan at UN, addresses Azerbaijan president: Could you show map of Armenia that you recognize?

PM Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan intends to seize new territories from Armenia

Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

FM addresses at Ancient Civilizations Forum: Armenian cultural heritage is being destroyed by Azerbaijan

NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

PM: Georgia ready to become venue for Armenia-Azerbaijan dialogue

Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

Bloomberg: UK intends to sign agreement on LNG supplies from U.S. for up to 20 years

China's former justice minister sentenced to death

Jermuk: Changes in Jermuk resort town after Azerbaijani attack (photo report)

Jermuk-Yerevan-Jermuk shuttle service already operating

Armenian Genocide Memorials Memory Ally area to be expanded

Biden to Pashinyan: We remain committed to promote peaceful resolution to conflict, including for people of Karabakh

Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

Aggression-affected IDPs from Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor to be provided with financial assistance

Peskov declines to comment on his son's refusal to report to military registration and enlistment office

Belgian parliamentary delegation visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

Peskov comments on reports of agitation at airports and checkpoints

Russia air carrier to conduct additional flights to Armenia, Turkey

Kazakhstan parliament passes law to exclude Day of First President from state holidays

US Congressman Schiff: These atrocities will continue until international community condemns Aliyev

Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

Senator: the U.S. must stop providing security assistance to Azerbaijan

Armenia, Finland FMs discuss Karabakh conflict settlement process

CSTO Secretary General, Armenia army chief discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

Armenia FM to Red Cross president: Azerbaijan crimes impunity makes aggressor more reckless (PHOTOS)

Greece politician condemns Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

Iran, Russia and China to hold joint naval drills

Iran army chief: We will not allow changes in borders in region

Parliament speaker: We expect our Belgian colleagues to continue efforts for Armenian POWs return from Azerbaijan

Karabakh FM discusses Artsakh foreign policy with group of US Congress members, senators

Relatives of those who died and those who were injured in Yerevan market explosion to get one-time financial aid

Copper rises in price

Truss says Russia is not threatened by anyone

Crime report is sent to Armenia Prosecutor General regarding recent harassment toward reporters in parliament

Armenia FM to International Crisis Group head: Azerbaijan trying to achieve its maximalist demands by using force

Gold prices fall below $1670 per ounce

Borrell announces new sanctions on Russia because of referendums

Oil prices move to some growth

Blinken says US will continue to support Ukraine

Newspaper: Armenia 3 ex-presidents, Catholicos to meet soon

Armenia FM in New York, meets with UN Secretary General special adviser on genocide prevention

Russian soldiers are exchanged with 215 Ukrainian POWs

Newspaper: PM urges political teammates not to do anything drastic regarding topic of Armenia leaving CSTO

Bulgaria gets closer to buying the second batch of eight new F-16s

Armenia FM to Sweden counterpart: International community must restrain Azerbaijan military aggression

FM briefs Nicaragua colleague on consequences of Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

2 of 3 injured in Yerevan market damaged building collapse discharged from hospital

Britain decides to revise its defense and security plan

Iranian parliament says border violation due to aggravation between Armenia and Azerbaijan unacceptable

Pashinyan leaves for New York
Black tech professionals in the US consistently experience systemic barriers to growth that lead to shorter-than- average tenures in their roles compared to their non-Black peers, according to a report released this week by Russell Reynolds Associates, a top-tier executive search and management consultancy, and Valence, the leading community to connect and empower Black professionals.

The joint report, Shaping the Future of Leadership for Black Tech Talent," studied the career histories, goals, successes, frustrations, and general experiences of US-based Black tech talent and how it compares to non-Black counterparts. The report also provides recommendations for how tech companies can close the Black representation gap.

[ Further reading: Diversity and inclusion make IT stronger ]

The number of Black tech workers in the US is unknown, because only a handful of companies track, monitor, and disclose employee diversity data. Among the large tech firms that do provide such data, Black professional representation is in the low single digits and has only increased a few percentage points since 2014.

Systemic barriers lead to constant turnover

One of the findings of the report is that Black tech workers move between companies every 3.5 years on average to advance their careers. That compares to every 5.1 years, on average, for their non-Black peers. The discrepancy is most pronounced for those just starting out in their careers: Black tech talent stays at a company for two years, while their non-Black peers stay more than twice that long.

Almost half of Black tech professionals in the report said they strongly agree that they have to frequently switch jobs to seek career growth; just 28% of non-Black respondents said the same thing.

As for those who remain in the industry, Black tech professionals are much less satisfied with the evaluation and promotion process. Only 29% of those with 10 to 20 years of tech work experience are satisfied with their level of recognition and of the equality of their pay, compared to 47% of non-Black professionals who said that.

Fully 71% of Black tech professionals are dissatisfied with how their leaders evaluate their performance. And the report indicated they are promoted about half as often as their non-Black counterparts with the same years of experience.

One of the biggest diversity gaps in large companies shows up in management and senior leadership roles. Black people account for about 12% of the US population, but occupy only 3.2% of senior leadership roles at large US firms and just 0.8% of all Fortune 500 CEO positions, according to an analysis by the Center for Talent Innovation.

When it comes to leadership, Black tech executives with more than two decades of experience are less likely to have access to critical experiences that can propel them into top team positions, according to the Russell Reynolds Associates and Valence report. While 81% of non-Black professionals with 20 years or more experience had the opportunity to lead a major company initiative, only 61% of Black tech executives did.

In addition, almost one in four Black tech professionals with long careers in tech do not believe they will have the opportunity to lead major company initiatives; only 7% of their non-Black counterparts said the same thing.

Closing the gap in tech

Russell Reynolds Associates and Valence identified four areas organizations need to meaningfully address to improve the experience, retention, and progression of Black tech professionals. Those four focus areas are:

Diversity Oversight: including presence, data disclosure, measurement, and external partnerships;

Talent Management: implementing sponsorship programs, resources, onboarding, and improving evaluation processes;

Equitable Opportunities: prioritizing skills over experience and adopting an inclusive mindset;

Leadership Development: investing in leadership development, setting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) goals and evaluating DEI outcomes.

Jeanine Prime, vice president in the Gartner HR practice, said that one of the most important steps organizations can take to advance underrepresented talent is to make sure leaders are accountable for DEI outcomes.

Prime said that organizations often take the wrong approach and try to establish leadership accountability via trainings, by cascading broad organizational DEI goals, and by reporting aggregated DEI metrics.

This approach is ineffective because it often only results in a sense of collective accountability," she said. "Leaders feel a shared sense of responsibility for DEI outcomes, but lack a sense of personal ownership and commitment."

According to Prime, creating accountability with consequences is more effective, as it means leaders have ownership over specific DEI goals and outcomes  and are rewarded for achieving them.

By prioritizing consequential over collective accountability, Gartner finds that organizations can close gender and racial and ethnic parity gaps an average of 13 and 6 years sooner, respectively, Prime said.

To establish consequential accountability, Prime said that organizations should help leaders use data to understand how their decisions affect DEI outcomes; customize and translate DEI goals to their business/functional context; and link leader progression to achievement of DEI goals.
Mali has failed to meet debt payments of some $40 million in treasury bonds, blaming sanctions imposed on the countrys military junta by West African bloc ECOWAS.

The Malian Economy and Finance Ministry released a statement on Tuesday saying that recently imposed sanctions have prevented them from paying debt on treasury bonds totaling almost $5 million.

UMOA-Titres, the agency that manages public securities in the West African CFA franc zone, issued three separate statements to investors this week stating that Mali has missed several payments totaling $40 million.

Both the Economic Community of West African States and the West African Economic and Monetary Union imposed sanctions on Mali last month after the countrys military junta, which seized power last year, postponed elections.

The sanctions froze Malis assets held by the Senegal-based Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO).

Modibo Mao Makalou is an economist and former economic advisor to the Malian presidency. Speaking from Bamako via messaging app, he said that because of the sanctions, not only will the Malian government be unable to pay the states debt, but it will also be unable to pay for internal operations.

"If the state does not manage to refinance itself, not only with regard to the expenses for staff, but also energy, communication expenses, expenses for missions, including military operations  this will prevent the state from functioning on a daily basis," he said.

The Central Bank of West African States serves the eight countries in West Africa that share a common currency, the West African CFA franc.

Kobi Annan, a risk consultant based in Accra with Songhai Advisory, an economic and risk consultancy firm focused on sub-Saharan Africa, says that Mali has some reserves that will carry the country through the next few months.

He says making Mali default on the debt is exactly how the West African sanctions are designed to work, to put pressure on the transitional authorities.

This would be fully expected; this is part of why its done that way, to make things more difficult for Mali," said Annan. "If you default on debt or if you dont pay back debt, then you are deemed a higher risk, meaning that borrowing when you are able to becomes more expensive.

Annan and Makalou both assert that eventually, as the Malian government becomes less able to access or borrow money and as its reserves dwindle, social services are likely to be affected, bringing the effects of the financial sanctions against the state into the lives of ordinary Malians.

Malis transitional military government has widespread support from the Malian population. Since being sanctioned, the government has not proposed a new election timeline, but has expressed a willingness to continue dialogue with ECOWAS.

The ministry's statement added that debts would be paid as soon as restrictions are lifted.
An artists rendering of an asteroid passing near Earth. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Nasa is tracking an asteroid larger than the worlds tallest skyscraper thats expected to pass close to Earth on 4 March.

But though the space agency categorizes the asteroid as potentially hazardous, the closest the space rock will pass near Earth is around 4.9 million kilometers  well outside the average orbit of the Moon at 385,000 kilometers.

Asteroid 138971 (2001 CB21) is just one of more than 25 objects that will pass near the Earth between 3 February and 4 March, according to tracking data from the Center for Near Earth Object Studies at Nasas Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), many of which will pass much closer to Earth.

But asteroid 138971 (2001 CB21) is by far the largest of the near Earth objects passing near Earth in the coming weeks. With a diameter of between 560 and 1,300 meters, the asteroid would stand a head above the 830-meter Tall Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai.

The most recent close approach of another asteroid of this size was the 18 January flyby of asteroid 7482 (1994 PC1), a 1,000-meter diameter space rock that passed a little less than 2 million kilometers of Earth.

JPL considers any asteroid of at least 150 meters diameter passing within 7.5 kilometers of Earth  19.5 times the distance to the Moon  to be potentially hazardous. An asteroid of 100 meters diameter impacting the Earth would generate an explosive force 10 times that of the 14 January, 2022 volcanic eruption in Tonga.

The close approach of asteroid 138971 (2001 CB21) comes days after 31 January announcement by Nasa of a significant upgrade to the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System, or ATLAS, an array of four telescopes used by the space agencys Planetary Defense Coordination Office to track potentially hazardous asteroids.

ATLAS began operations in 2017 using two telescopes in Hawaii, but the addition of two additional telescopes  one in South Africa and the other in Chile  now allow ATLAS to image the entire night sky every 24 hours. ATLAS can provide several days warning for close approaches by asteroids as small as 20 meters, and weeks of warning for asteroids around 100 meters. The program has detected more than 700 near Earth asteroids.

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Asteroid 138971 (2001 CB21) is not a recent ATLAS find, however but was discovered by MITs Lincoln Near-Earth Asteroid Research (LINEAR) program in 2001, and so its passage through the Solar System is well characterized. Its closest expected approach to Earth will bring it within around 3.6 million kilometers of our planet  but not until 6 March, 2148.

For the curious, Nasa JPL maintains an asteroid watch webpage that is regularly updated to show the next five near-Earth asteroid approaches, giving the date each space rock will pass near our planet, how close it will pass by, and its size along with a terrestrial comparison.

Asteroid 2022 AA, for instance, will pass around 2.5 million kilometers from Earth on 4 February, and at around 40 meters diameter, is roughly airplane size.
Ukraines Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has called on Australia to use new laws designed to punish human rights abusers to sanction individual Russian officials in a further bid to deter Moscow from invading the country.

The crisis between Russia and Ukraine deepened on Thursday with leaked documents confirming the United States and NATO had rejected Russias key security demands and the Biden administration ordering 3000 additional troops into Eastern Europe.

Ukranian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says Australia can assist Ukraine in a range of ways including sanctions on Russian officials. Credit:AP

Russian President Vladimir Putin this week accused the West of ignoring Russias concerns and deliberately creating a scenario designed to lure it into war, after Moscow sent more than 100,000 troops to the Ukrainian border.

Mr Kuleba said it was time for Australia to impose tougher sanctions on Russia and called on the federal government to use the newly passed Magnitsky laws to sanction senior Russian officials close to Mr Putin who have long earned reasons to be sanctioned for gross human rights violations.
Elizabeth Vargas appeared to be putting her traumatic week behind her by stepping out for a swanky dinner with friends in Malibu after she was allegedly held at gun point by her ex-boyfriend.

The Real Housewives of Orange County alum, 46, was spotted with a huge smile on her face as she headed into Nobu for dinner with billionaire philanthropist John Paul DeJoria, producer David Weintraub and two other friends on Wednesday night.

Just a day prior, Elizabeth's ex allegedly barricaded himself inside of her Newport Beach home, held her at gun point and 'roughed her up' after a failed extortion plot.

Putting it behind her: Elizabeth Vargas, 46, appeared to be putting her traumatic week behind her by stepping out for a swanky dinner with friends in Malibu after she was allegedly held at gun point by her ex-boyfriend

As Elizabeth joined pals for dinner, there was no evidence that the reality star had just been put through such a harrowing situation.

She put on a very brave face and flashed an ear-to-ear grin in a long sleeve black turtleneck bodycon dress with nude pumps.

Vargas pulled her blonde tresses back in a sleek ponytail and sported dewy neutral makeup with simple gold accessories.

The star was even pictured sharing a good laugh with her dinner companions who were, no doubt, there to support her in such a trying time.

Just what she needed: Elizabeth managed a brave face and an ear-to-ear grin while heading in for a high-end meal at celebrity hot spot Nobu in Malibu

Looking good: Just a day after she was 'held at gun point' by her ex-boyfriend inside her own home, Vargas donned a black longsleeve bodycon dress for a much needed night out

Beautiful: Vargas pulled her blonde tresses back in a sleek ponytail and sported dewy neutral makeup with simple gold accessories

Earlier that day, Elizabeth's manager revealed to the New York Post that she is 'shaken up' over Tuesday night's scary ordeal and that it was an 'extremely traumatizing experience' for her.

Pictures that were released on Wednesday show that Elizabeth's residence, which is located in the posh area called Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, has been boarded up following Tuesday's incident.

Hours after the ordeal with her 'aggressive' ex-boyfriend, Elizabeth's manager David Weintraub gave a statement to the New York Post.

'Liz is completely traumatized, and spent the entire night with police. She is so thankful to the Newport Beach Police Department, and the officers who saved her from this terrible incident. She is looking forward to getting back to normal life,' it read.

Shocking: Elizabeth's ex allegedly barricaded himself inside of her Newport Beach home, held her at gun point and 'roughed her up' after a failed extortion plot

Support system: The Real Housewives of Orange County alum was spotted with billionaire philanthropist John Paul DeJoria, producer David Weintraub and two other friends on Wednesday night

Bouncing back! Despite the traumatic events which required armed members of a SWAT team to descend on the Newport Beach home, Elizabeth still found it possible to have a giggle

She had briefly dated the man from the area, who allegedly became 'obsessed' with her and would show up to her home and places she often went to.

Elizabeth would occasionally help him out financially but TMZ insiders claim that his money demands became more 'aggressive.'

The star had originally contacted authorities to report him for extortion, believing that he was coming later that day to ask for more money.

After her call on Tuesday, the cops arrived to her home and watched it from a distance, but the ex was able to slip in.

'Liz is completely traumatized, and spent the entire night with police. She is so thankful to the Newport Beach Police Department, and the officers who saved her from this terrible incident. She is looking forward to getting back to normal life,' her manager said

Scary: The star had originally contacted authorities Tuesday to report an obsessive ex for extortion, believing that he was coming later that day to ask for more money

Terrifying: After he got inside her residence, the man allegedly 'held her at gunpoint' and 'roughed her up' before she was finally let go, according to TMZ

While inside, he then allegedly 'held her at gunpoint' and 'roughed her up' before she was finally let go, according to the outlet.

The situation appeared to escalate as several SWAT officers were seen with their rifles aimed at the home, with cops also seen with armored vehicles, per TMZ.

The star was pictured leaving her home in a white robe with the man still inside; he barricaded himself in the home but then eventually surrendered to the cops.

In addition to the heavily armed and armored law enforcement members who surrounded the house, her residence was also surrounded by a militarized SWAT vehicle.

To serve and protect: The situation appeared to escalate as several SWAT officers were seen with their rifles aimed at the home, with cops also seen with armored vehicles

Although TMZ reported that one person was taken into custody following the altercation, they appear to have not been taking any chances.

Photos from the evening show a team of SWAT members going through the house, and they could also be glimpsed standing on the second floor balcony looking into another room from the outside.

Authorities had swept the home to ensure no one else was there on Tuesday, sources told the outlet.

Law enforcement told the outlet around 7:40 p.m. PT that one suspect was placed into custody with a 'felony crime,' and two others at large, according to the LA Times.

Scary stuff: Photos from the evening show a team of SWAT members going through the house, and they could also be glimpsed standing on the second floor balcony looking into another room from the outside

The Times also reported that the incident started at 1:50 p.m. PT with police making it public by 5 p.m. PT to alert residents.

Police told CBSLA that a standoff commenced at around 5:45 p.m. PT in the region of East Balboa Boulevard and Medina Way.

Later on Wednesday, the Newport Beach Police Department announced in a press release that suspect Ryan Geraghty, 33, had been charged with assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, being a felon in possession of a firearm and extortion.

'Once inside the residence, police officers encountered an armed male suspect who was actively threatening the life of the victim,' the statement read. 'Officers took immediate action and placed the suspect into custody.'

He was slated to appear in court Thursday in connection with the incident, Page Six reported.

While TMZ noted the ex-boyfriend was the only suspect, the Times reported that three people had allegedly barricaded themselves in the home and eventually all being arrested, but police later said that was incorrect information.
Nextleaf said expanding distribution of Glacial Gold products into Ontario sets the stage for "significant growth" of its branded product sales

Nextleaf Solutions Ltd (CSE:OILS, OTCQB:OILFF) announced that it has received approval from the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS) to list Nextleafs Glacial Gold products for sale in Ontario.

The company said the first Glacial Gold products, which includes Anytime Vape and Distilled 30/30 Blend Oil, will be available to Ontario consumers beginning in May 2022.

We are thrilled for British Columbia's #1 selling CBD-focused vape to be available at cannabis retailers across Ontario this Spring, Nextleaf Solutions CEO Paul Pedersen said in a statement.

Expanding distribution of Glacial Gold products into Ontario is a significant milestone for our company and sets the stage for significant growth of our branded product sales, Pedersen added.

As well, Nextleaf reported that its wholly-owned Nextleaf Labs Ltd subsidiary has completed a shipment to the British Columbia Liquor and Distribution Branch of its three new Glacial Gold vape stock-keeping units (SKUs), including two new flavours: Sunshine Punch and Sparkling Grape.

The company said it anticipates the product will be available for BC retailers to order in early February.

Nextleaf Labs also noted it has completed its first shipments of Glacial Gold CBD and THC products to the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation, which will be available to Nova Scotia consumers in February.

And, Nextleaf announced that it has engaged Cannavolve Inc to provide field coverage at cannabis retailers and support the national rollout of Glacial Gold products.

The company added that Cannavolve has a wide network throughout every major provincial market in Canada and expects the partnership will help Nextleaf achieve further route-to-market efficiencies and position Glacial Gold as a national leader in the vape and CBD oil categories.

Nextleaf Solutions is a federally regulated manufacturer and distributor of cannabis vapes and oils under the Glacial Gold brand. The company's multi-patented ingredient processing technology transforms cannabis and hemp biomass into high-purity distillate at an industrial scale.

Nextleaf is also a low-cost producer of cannabis oils and supplies THC and CBD ingredients to qualified wholesale partners across Canada.

Contact Sean at sean@proactiveinvestors.com
New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has once again slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Thursday (February 3), the Congress leader hit out at the PM, alleging that he is silently waiting for "achhe din" as China is abducting and torturing Indian citizens. "China first captured our land and is now abducting our citizens and torturing them. Modiji is silently waiting for achhe din. Shameful," he said in a tweet In Hindi.

Gandhi tagged a news report citing a statement of BJP MP Tapir Gao, who urged the government to find a solution as China is picking up Indian citizens. This comes after Arunachal teen Miram Taron was abducted and subsequently released by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China. He alleged that he was tortured by the PLA.

The Bharatiya Janata Party stormed to power at the Centre in 2014 on the promise of bringing back "achhe din" (good days) in the country.

This isn't the first time Rahul Gandhi attacked BJP on the once-missing Arunachal teenager. Earlier, he had slammed the Central government for not reacting to the abduction of the youth by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) and said that the silence is a statement of the Centre as they do not care. His statement came after the 17-year-old Miram Taron was abducted by China's PLA from Arunachal Pradesh's Zido area, Upper Siang district, Lungta Jor area.

Taking to Twitter, the Congress leader had then written in Hindi, "A few days before Republic Day, a fortune-teller of India is kidnapped by China - We are with the family of Miram Taroun and will not give up hope, will not give up. PM's cowardly silence is his statement - he doesn't care!"

(With Agency inputs)

Live TV
A bill backed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin that would have created an easier path for charter schools to open around the state was shut down Thursday by a key Senate panel.

The bill would have given the state more power to approve charter school applications, which are now subject to the will of local school boards.

Charter schools, which operate using public dollars but with some independence from the local school board, are rare in Virginia. Youngkin ran on promises to expand that number, proposing at least 20 new charter schools but also telling supporters during campaign events he hoped to see as many as 200.

On Thursday, the Senate education panel also shut down a Youngkin-backed bill that would have banned the teaching of inherently divisive concepts in public schools. Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, who recommended that the panel reject the bill, said the patron, Sen. Jen Kiggans, R-Virginia Beach, did not clearly define the concepts the bill would ban. The panel voted along party lines to reject the bill.

Youngkin and Republicans in the legislature say charter schools could be a response to parent frustration with their local schools, in part brought on by pandemic policies, and an innovative way to improve education for students in underperforming schools. Democrats have argued that the states education dollars are better focused on the current public school system.

Democrats on the Senate Education and Health panel voted against the measure, with the exception of Sen. Lynwood Lewis, D-Accomack. The bill was introduced by Sen. Mark Obenshain, R-Rockingham. Key votes against the bill included Senate Majority Leader Dick Saslaw, D-Fairfax, and Sen. Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, president pro tempore of the Senate.

The bill would have allowed the state Board of Education to create regional charter school divisions made up of two or three localities. Each of the localities would have to enroll at least 3,000 students and include schools struggling with student performance in math and English standardized tests.

The regional bodies would have the power to approve new charter schools. A majority of the board would be appointed by the state Board of Education. Localities would always have minority power and would be unable to reject charter school applicants - outnumbered by board members appointed by a charter-friendly state government, at least while Youngkin is in office.

Obenshain and supporters of the bill have argued that local approval is a fatal hurdle for charter schools: They need authorization to open from the local school district, which would compete with the school for enrollment and at least some of the funding attached to those students.

There's an incredible unfairness in how our schools are now attributed, and that is by ZIP code, said Sen. Siobhan Dunnavant, R-Henrico, who backed the bill. There are Virginians who cannot choose where they live, and they end up going to the schools that have the least likelihood of helping them access the education that they need.

Lucas said she found it really strange that instead of dedicating more funding toward reducing school sizes, the panel was weighing directing funding to a new system. Saslaw said the bill would hurt small localities that would lose some funding as their students left to a charter school.

Obenshain said that the bill excluded localities with fewer than 3,000 students for that reason. Saslaw said many districts with more than 3,000 students could still struggle. They're going to get killed by this, Saslaw said.

Obenshains bill as it came before the committee would have left some per-student state funding at the neighborhood school for every child that opts for the new charter - a compromise to help the bill along. Obenshain said he does not expect the kind of draw to charter schools that would decimate local district funding.

If it is the case, I would say that that school divisions got a real big problem because the parents want what the charter schools are delivering, and that their local school division is not, Obenshain said.

Legislation mirroring Obenshains bill is moving through the GOP-led House. A separate piece of legislation allowing the state to authorize charter schools operated by colleges, universities and private businesses is still moving through the Senate.

***

Also Thursday, along party lines, the same panel shut down legislation that would have repealed a requirement that local school districts adopt policies related to transgender students.

The panel did advance legislation backed by Youngkin that would require school districts to notify parents of any sexually explicit material that will be used in the classroom, allow the parent to review it, and provide the student an alternative at the parents request.

Lewis and Sen. Chap Petersen, D-Fairfax City, joined Republicans in support of the bill.
28. Support social emotional learning.

Part of our philosophy is to give students a sense of the interconnectedness of all life. The Science Times often has articles that, beyond the intended purpose of reporting, are a reflection on values that students can relate to. Today Im assigning the article How Bat Moms Give Pups Their Sense of Direction to be used as a component for project-based learning. Besides being an article about scientific observation of bats, the article is about getting direction from parents and about how life on this planet protects their young. The students will use it to reflect on when and how they get a sense of direction from their parents, how different cultures give direction and observations of ways animals, birds and fish protect and guide their young.  Jane Bernard, educational director, Trilok School, Brooklyn, N.Y.

29. Build writing skills.

I adapted the Tiny Love Stories feature to challenge my college undergraduate biology students to write their own Tiny Biology Stories to thoughtfully (and succinctly!) express how aspects of biology have already impacted their lives. Students are encouraged to include a drawing, illustration or photo with their stories, and we have a gallery walk where all stories are displayed, and students can read each others writings and ask each other questions and reflect on those experiences as well as their own. Many stories are quite creative and often heartfelt as they relate to personal aspects of inheritance or disease, or to biological mysteries for themselves or family members still unsolved. I enjoy reading my students expressions and every semester I learn something new from having the opportunity to see our course concepts reflected through their heart and mind.  Erica S. Tietjen, biology and environmental science professor, Nevada State College, Henderson, Nev.

30. Spark students curiosity.

I use our Science Tuesdays mainly to reinvigorate students to the nature of science, stimulating curiosity, recognizing uncertainty, letting them imagine, and recognize that they are developing the capacity to enjoy the language and unfolding of science. It is a joyful celebration focused on feeding an affect for the love of science and curiosity. By taking science courses this world is opening up to them. I think that feels empowering to the students.  Alan Zollner, physics and engineering teacher, Hendrick Hudson High School, Montrose, N.Y.
Novavax jab trialled in Wrexham given approval by UK drugs regulator

This article is old - Published: Thursday, Feb 3rd, 2022

A COVID-19 vaccine developed by US manufacturer Novavax and trialled volunteers in North Wales has today been given regulatory approval by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

The vaccine, called Nuvaxovid is the fifth to be authorised by the UKs independent medicines regulator.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board recruited hundreds of people aged 18-84 who lived within a 30 mile radius of Wrexham to participate in the Novavax clinical trial.

The study involved volunteers making 6 visits to the Wrexham Maelor Hospital site over a 13 month period.

The approval authorises the use of this vaccine in people aged 18 and over for a first and second dose.

As with all vaccines. People with an allergy to one of the components of the vaccine listed in the patient information leaflet should not receive the vaccine.

June Raine, MHRA Chief Executive, said: Our approval of Nuvaxovid today follows a rigorous review of the safety, quality and effectiveness of this vaccine, and expert advice from the governments independent scientific advisory body, the Commission on Human Medicines.

I am pleased to confirm today that this authorisation has been granted, providing access to a fifth vaccine that can be used to help protect us from COVID-19.

We are continuing our vital safety work in monitoring the use of all COVID-19 vaccines, to ensure that their benefits in protecting people against COVID-19 disease continue to outweigh any risks. We also carry out independent batch testing on all the approved COVID-19 vaccines to ensure that every batch meets the expected quality standards.
BEIRUT  The leader of the Islamic State group, killed in a U.S. raid overnight in northwest Syria, was a veteran insider and top ideologue of the extremist movement, believed to have played a key role in one of its most horrific atrocities: the enslavement of thousands of women from Iraqs Yazidi religious minority.

Known as Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, he kept himself wrapped in mystery during his more than two years as the groups caliph. Almost no public photos of him exist, he never appeared in public or in IS videos.

From hiding, he led the groups remnants as they regrouped following the downfall of their caliphate and shifted underground to wage an insurgency in Iraq and Syria.

He met his end in Syrias rebel-held Idlib province in a house he had rented only about 24 kilometers (15 miles) from the safehouse where his predecessor, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was hunted down by the Americans in a similar raid in October 2019.

His death comes as IS militants, after years of low-level hit-and-run ambushes, had begun to carry out bolder, higher-profile attacks. Last month, IS attacked a prison in northeast Syria to free jailed comrades, leading to a 10 day battle with Kurdish-led forces that left some 500 dead.

Al-Qurayshis death may disrupt the groups momentum in the short term, but is unlikely to hurt its operations in the long term.

Its an organization not focused on charismatic leadership, but ideas, which is why its leaders have been pretty low-profile, Aaron Y. Zelin, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, said. I think the IS machine will continue with whoever the new leader is.

Al-Qurayshis real name was Amir Mohammed Saeed Abdul-Rahman al-Mawla. He was an Iraqi in his mid-40s, born in 1976 and believed to be an ethnic Turkman from the northern Iraqi town of Tel Afar. He held a degree in Islamic law from the University of Mosul.

He took the al-Qurayshi nom de guerre after being elevated to IS leader following al-Baghdadis death  suggesting that he, like his predecessor, claimed links to the tribe of Islams Prophet Muhammad.

Like his predecessor, al-Qurayshi spent his last days in Idlib province, an area held by insurgent groups hostile to IS some distance from the main theaters of war in eastern Syria and Iraq where the group once held vast swaths of territory in a self-declared caliphate.

He was staying in a three-story house in the town of Atmeh, near the border with Turkey. During the early morning raid Thursday, he blew himself up, killing a number of women and children along with him, according to U.S. officials. First responders at the scene said 13 people, including four women and six children, were killed during the raid, during which U.S, forces battled gunmen in and around the house.

Idlib, the last major rebel stronghold in Syria, is home to 3 million people, many of them displaced by the civil war, making it easy for strangers to blend in. The house, surrounded by olive trees, appears to have been chosen by al-Qurayshi to be as far away as possible from the eyes of onlookers.

Neighbors said the man who lived on the top floor with his family had earlier identified himself as Abu Ahmad, a Syrian who was displaced by war from Aleppo province, according to journalists at the scene. Arabiya TV said three of the women killed in the raid might have been al-Qurayshis wives.

Since taking command of IS, al-Qurayshi has topped the wanted list of the U.S. and other regional governments fighting the extremists. He did not appear in public, and rarely released any audio recordings. His influence and day-to-day involvement in the groups operations is not known, and he has no known successor.

Al-Qurayshi began his militant work shortly after former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was removed from power. A year after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, al-Qurayshi joined al-Qaida in Iraq, run by Jordanian militant Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.

Following al-Zarqawis death in a U.S. strike in 2006, al-Qurayshi became a senior official with the al-Qaida affiliates successor group, the Islamic State in Iraq. He soon became the groups top Islamic Sharia law official in Mosul, according to a report by the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point. Al-Qurayshi was also known by other noms de guerre, Abu Omar al-Turkmani, Abdullah Qaradash and Hajji Abdullah.

He was arrested by U.S. troops in Mosul in 2008 and was detained for two years.

Al-Baghdadi, meanwhile, transformed the organization into the Islamic State group, breaking with al-Qaida. In 2014, ISIS overran much of northern and eastern Syria and northern Iraq and declared its caliphate.

Al-Qurayshi was a member of the Delegated Committee, the senior IS executive body, and served as the groups senior judge and Sharia official in Iraq, exercising religious authority over all IS activity there, according to the Center for International Justice and Accountability, which investigated him as part of its effort to compile cases against senior IS figures on war crimes and crimes against humanity.

In that role, he was central to the groups massacre of Yazidi men and boys and enslavement of thousands of Yazidi women kidnapped when IS overran the heartland of the minority group in northwest Iraq. He oversaw the distribution of enslaved women and children to IS members and was responsible for forced conversions of children, CIJA said in a statement.

Al-Qurayshi had enormous power to persecute and punish ISs enemies as far back as 2014. Not only was he one of the key architects of the Islamic State slave trade in Yazidi women and children, he personally enslaved and raped captive women, Nerma Jelacic, CIJAs deputy director.

President Joe Biden said al-Qurayshi was directly responsible for last months prison strike in Syria, as well as the mass killings of the Yazidi people in Iraq.

He was the driving force behind the genocide of the Yazidi people, Biden said Thursday. We all remember the gut-wrenching stories, mass slaughters that wiped out entire villages, thousands of women and young girls sold into slavery, rape used as a weapon of war.
(Reuters) - Myanmar's military government announced a new bribery charge against deposed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Thursday, the country's state broadcaster reported.

Nobel laureate Suu Kyi, 76, is on trial in nearly a dozen cases that carry combined maximum sentences of at least 150 years in prison. She has been already been sentenced to a total of six years detention for other cases.

A spokesperson for Myanmar's military, which overthrew Suu Kyi's government in a coup last February, could not be reached for comment. Lawyers for Suu Kyi, who have been barred from speaking about her cases, could also not be reached for comment.

(Reporting by Reuters staff; Editing by John Geddie and Peter Graff)
United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona is using emergency funding grants totaling $45,000 to be distributed among three partners serving as refugee resettlement agencies.

The aid from community donations will be used in Tucson by International Rescue Committee, Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest and Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona to help Afghanistan refugees with needs including rent, food and utilities, said Lisa Floran, senior director of financial wellness at United Way.

The refugee resettlement agencies also receive federal funding for direct assistance for the Afghans.

About 100 more Afghanistan evacuees are anticipated to arrive in Tucson within the next two weeks as part of Operation Allies Refuge, a military operation that airlifted certain at-risk Afghan civilians, interpreters, U.S. embassy employees and other prospective Special Immigrant Visa and humanitarian parolee applicants.

The evacuees fled after the Talibans swift takeover last summer after the withdrawal of U.S. troops began to end a 20-year war. President Joe Biden said it was time for American military to leave.

We try to stay aware of the different needs that come up in the community and connect partners and community members with resources that are available, said Floran. We feel fortunate that there are partners doing this work on the ground and that we can support them in welcoming evacuees and refugees to Tucson.

Local Tucson refugee resettlement agencies have moved 250 refugees to permanent housing and another 250 remain in hotels and in Airbnbs, said Floran. Finding housing that can accommodate larger families, some with 12 members, is an especially high priority for our partner agencies right now, she said.

In an earlier interview, Aaron Rippenkroeger, executive director for IRC in Arizona, said because of the numbers and pace of refugees arriving with short notice they are initially being housed in hotels, and that is happening across the nation since there is a housing shortage. He said roughly 100,000 refugees are out of Afghanistan and most are coming to the United States.

Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona, an affiliated organization of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson, was approved as a refugee resettlement organization this fiscal year, and will be resettling up to 100 Afghan refugees, said Anna Burke, associate director of CCS. Officials with Lutheran Social Services said they can accept 150 Afghan refugees and International Rescue Committee can receive 400.

Tony Penn, United Way president and chief executive officer, said he is pleased the agency can help to meet the emergency needs of these vulnerable families, and by uniting together, were encouraged that we can help to keep evacuees and refugees safe, stable and secure as they transition to life in Tucson.
Authorities in Argentina are advising drug consumers to throw away any cocaine they may have purchased in the last two days after at least 23 people died after ingesting adulterated cocaine in the Greater Buenos Aires area.

Related: Tainted cocaine kills 20 in Argentina with dozens more hospitalised

Eighty-four others are are currently under intensive care, of which 20 have been intubated, but authorities fear the death toll could increase as further victims are found to have died alone at home.

Dozens of the victims were saved after they were intubated in intensive care units usually reserved for Covid patients, Buenos Aires province health minister Nicolas Kreplak said on Thursday.

If it hadnt been because of our pandemic preparedness, the number of victims would be far higher, Kreplak told reporters outside the Bocalandro hospital where a number of patients are interned.

The tainted cocaine causes lethal cardiac and respiratory arrest in less than an hour, prompting authorities to issue an epidemiological alert warning the public not to consume any cocaine they may have purchased in the last two days.

Many victims have been taken ill almost immediately and died in their homes. Harrowing scenes of convulsing victims arriving at hospitals in private cars and being carried inside by relatives have been shown on television news and shared on social media.

Most of the victims seemed to be male and between the ages of 30 and 50, according to early reports.

Allan Santillan, 19, was rushed him to a public hospital on Wednesday morning after smoking the cocaine the previous night. I woke up with my liver shot to hell, vomiting, and with stomach pains, he told the Associated Press in a hospital interview.

Early speculation pointed to a turf war in which the cocaine could have been spiked by rival drug gangs trying to squeeze competitors out of the market. But that hypothesis is now giving way to the view that the tainted cocaine was cut with a poorly manufactured opioid.

Story continues

We have indirect evidence it was cut with an opioid, because patients who receive the opioid antidote [naloxone] recover very quickly, said Buenos Aires security minister Sergio Berni.

The minister speculated that the opioid may have been poorly manufactured in a drug kitchen rather than stolen from a pharmaceutical company because of its deadly effect.

Paraguayan drug dealer Joaquin El Paisa Aquino was arrested overnight and authorities speculated he could be connected to the tainted drugs.

In the operation, police seized 15,000 packages of cocaine in magenta polythene wrappers, similar to those which survivors of the tainted drugs had purchased.

In principle, it would seem that it is the same batch and the same substance, but this is all preliminary, there is nothing definitive, Buenos Aires crime secretary Francisco Pont Verges told the press.

Officials said the victims had purchased the cocaine at drug dens in Puerta 8, a low-income district in the Greater Buenos Aires area.

It is a regular place for retail drug sales and it has been raided several times, said prosecutor Marcelo Lapargo.

But we are now talking about an event of a different nature, because one thing is the sale of drugs at these dens  and the death of so many people is quite another. We are extremely anxious today to tell those who are in possession of this poison that they should not consume it.

Cocaine consumption is high in Greater Buenos Aires, where 200,000 individual doses are sold each day among a population of about 15 million people, according to media reports.

The illegal drug business accounted for $1.1bn in sales in Argentina during 2017, according to the most recent studies, the daily Infobae reported Thursday.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/northern-ireland-first-minister-paul-givan-steps-down-1092726154.html

Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan Steps Down

Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan Steps Down

The official announced his resignation less than a day after senior Democratic Unionist Party leader and Northern Ireland minister of agriculture Edwin Poots... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T16:41+0000

2022-02-03T16:41+0000

2022-02-03T19:02+0000

northern ireland

brexit

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First Minister of Northern Ireland Paul Givan resigned from his post on Thursday, publishing a letter of resignation on Twitter."It has been the privilege of my lifetime to serve as First Minister of Northern Ireland...Holding this office is one that comes with a heavy responsibility and I have often felt the weight of this burden, to do what is right for all our people," Givan, who took up the job in June 2021, wrote."The consent principle is a cornerstone of the Belfast Agreement and it is my earnest desire that all sections of the community will soon be able to give that consent to the restoration of a fully functioning Executive through a resolution to the issues that have regrettably brought us to this point," Givan wrote.In accordance with Northern Ireland's power-sharing arrangements, Givan's deputy, Michelle O'Neill of Sinn Fein, also has to step down. Sinn Fein, the nationalist political force that supports the eventual reunification of Ireland, had called for early elections to the Stormont  Northern Ireland's parliament, ahead of Givan's departure.Givan's Democratic Unionist Party has protested the Northern Ireland Protocol  the Brexit-affiliated agreement applicable to Northern Ireland designed to prevent a hard border from being set up between the British territory and the Republic of Ireland, for months on end.On Wednesday, Northern Ireland minister of agriculture Edwin Poots ordered officials to halt checks on food products starting midnight after months of wrangling by the Democratic Unionist Party against checks on goods travelling back and forth across the Irish Sea.London has assured reporters that checks will continue and that they would remain in place amid talks with Brussels. The European Commission has expressed concerns about "uncertainty and unpredictability" being created by disagreements on the protocol, calling Poots' orders a "breach of international law." At the same time, Brussels maintains that it was "working tirelessly" with London "to address practical challenges related to the implementation of the protocol."The Democratic Unionist Party has faced pressure from constituents amid the unpopularity of the port checks on food and farm products, with Sinn Fein and the Ulster Unionist Party (a rival of DUP's) threatening to expand their support in elections set for May. Observers say Givan's resignation and Poots' orders on the border checks may be a bid by the party to retain a measure of support among the public.Givan's resignation is expected to weaken the Stormont's decision-making authority, putting on hold plans to approve a new three-year budget.

https://sputniknews.com/20211229/declassified-docs-reveal-irish-diplomat-said-boris-johnson-had-naive-views-of-northern-ireland-1091885573.html

https://sputniknews.com/20220109/truss-warns-she-will-trigger-article-16-unless-eu-shows-greater-movement-towards-uk-proposals-1092132216.html

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Boosh previously reported that Save On Foods first order was for 120 stores

Boosh Plant-Based Brands Inc (CSE:VEGI, OTC:VGGIF) said that Save On Foods has confirmed that their first order of Boosh will be for all 170 stores throughout Canada.

Boosh previously reported that Save On Foods first order was for 120 stores.

The initial order from Save On Foods includes a minimum of one case per location with each case including four of our frozen bowls; Veggie Bolognese with Beyond Meat, Mac & Cheese & Peas, Coconut Curry Cauli and Mexican Fiesta. Shipment of the order is scheduled for early April.

"The total Save On order is close to $100,000 in revenues. This is phased over a six-week period which lends itself to our manufacturing schedule for our growing list of orders from grocery stores," said Connie Marples, president and founder of Boosh.

"Our goal now is to be prepare for re-orders, and hopefully expand into the refrigerated section with our Mushroom Gravy, Chili and Sloppy Joe entrees, as well as shelf-stable with our newly introduced Mac & Cheeze," Marples added.

"Boosh has done a significant amount of preparation over the past year to not only secure these larger orders, but to be prepared for these types of orders from multiple nationwide grocery chains," said TJ Walsh, Boosh head of North American sales.

"Boosh's primary goal in 2021 was to create the infrastructure and foundation allowing us to scale. In 2022, our primary goal is leveraging that foundation to drive revenues. We look forward to creating a long-term relationship with Save On Foods," Wash added.

Boosh also announced that it will be attending the Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, California from March 10 through March 12, 2022. Expo West is focused on an in-person experience for product discovery, networking, and industry trend discussions, with the addition of online extensions as a resource for those who choose not to travel.

Expo West is being held at the Anaheim Convention Center located at 800 West Katella Avenue, Anaheim. As a result of coronavirus (COVID-19), 2019 was the most recent year in which the event was held. In 2019 over 88,000 people attended the Expo.

Contact the author at jon.hopkins@proactiveinvestors.com
Pace-setting social enterprise, Mckingtorch Africa has commissioned Ghanas first-ever bus shelter made from plastic waste at Dzorwulu Junction, just in front of Fiesta Royale Hotel.

Since its birth four years ago, Mckingtorch Africa has been the brains behind some mind-blowing plastic waste innovations and is responsible for most of the Christmas decorations made from plastic seen in parts of Africa in December 2021 during the yuletide period.

In its latest innovation, the outfit has designed a bus shelter made from the plastic waste of gallons, water bottles, as well as flip flops collected from the shores of beaches with funding from Geodrill Ghana Limited and support from Academic City University College.

After its completion, Mckingtorch Africa has finally today, Thursday, February 3, 2022, commissioned the project being documented on behalf of the Bill Gate foundation by the BBC.

Giving his address at the commissioning ceremony, Founder and CEO for Mckingtorch Africa, Makafui Awuku explained that the general object of the project is to explore the use of plastic waste to find other alternative use for plastic, wood, and other building materials.

The specific objective relates to designing, fabricating, installing sustainable public space shelters from recycled materials to promote further research and investigate into plastic waste in Ghana, discover how these materials respond to adverse weather, promote private partnership, explore sustainable ways of keeping plastic waste out of the environment and then pursuing the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 of sustainable communities and cities to make public spaces safer, he shared.

Makafui Awuku

After successfully putting up the first of his kind, Makafui Awuku notes that his outfit is determined to fabricate and install a lot more of these shelters across the country and on the African continent through the partnerships that it has.

He further appealed to the private sector and capable individuals to support Mckingtorch Africa to embark on more projects in dealing with plastic waste in the country.

In his speech, the CEO of Geodrill Ghana Limited, Mr. Dave Harper applauded Makafui Awuku and his Mckingtorch outfit for seeing out the bus shelter project successfully.

While noting that this should only be the first of many in Ghana, he called on businesses to support Mckingtorch Africa to continue with the good work.

Im delighted to be launching Accras first bus shelter made from recycled plastic collected from the streets.

Its really an amazing project and it should be the first of many. I is this platform to encourage businesses to come forward and assist Makafui in his efforts so that we can put Ghana on the map. Be the best on how we fight the plastic problem more sustainable, Mr. Dave Harper appealed.

Mr. Dave Harper

The CEO of Geodrill Ghana Limited before concluding pledged to support Mckingtorch with GHS70,000 on their next project.

Called to the podium to deliver a speech as a special guest, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ayawaso West Assembly, Hon. Sandra Owusu-Ahinkorah bemoaned how the countrys failure to manage plastic waste has led to plastic pollution making the environment unsafe.

She said the innovation of Mckingtorch Africa is commendable and her outfit will provide support for more to be lifted in her Municipality.

As a first beneficiary, we will provide the necessary support for the construction of more at various bus stops before you move to other Municipalities, she noted.

She further pledged to support Mckingtorch Africa with a sum of GHS5,000.

On his part, Prof. Fred Bagonluri, the President of Academic City University College joined the calls to provide support for Mckingtorch Africa while urging the industry to strengthen collaboration with academia to build the right sets of technologies to solve problems.

He stressed that plastic is really a menace and all must join hands to help solve the problem.

He advised parents, schools, and institutions, to all join n to shape the behaviour of the citizenry about the responsibilities to keep the environment clean.

About McKingtorch Africa:

Mckingtorch Africa is a registered social enterprise in the environmental sustainability and sanitation space. Mckingtorch Africa is into recycling, upcycling, advocacy on environmental sanitation and plastic pollution, community and beach cleanups, mentoring and training for youth on creating solutions from waste, plastic waste art exhibitions, and sales of products and arts from plastic waste.

Mckingtorch Africa has collected over 200,000 plastic waste bottles from homes, offices and the streets of Accra employed 3 people and engages over 200 volunteers in Ghana and on the African continent. Mckingtorch Africa has represented Ghana at high profile events and exhibitions including the Netherlands Embassy Fuse 2.0 Cultural Exchange Program, Global Forest Alliance Conference in Ghana, Ghana Petroleum Conference, West African Mining Conference and Exhibition, British Council Social Enterprise Exhibition, Norwegian Embassy Plastic Pollution Exhibition, private Plastic waste exhibition in honour of H.R.H. Prince Charles, Australian Day Celebrations.
Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau said that he has no plan to send the military to assist the police in Ottawa in the Freedom Convoy protest.

Police had previously said that Canadas military may be needed to clear the anti-vaccine mandate protest, which has paralysed the capital for almost a week. Mr Trudeau said on Thursday during a press briefing that introducing the armed forces is not in the cards right now.

Police Chief Peter Sloly said local law enforcement is overstretched and the city has considered various options to disband the protesters who have occupied city streets for six days in their trucks, blocking roads around Parliament Hill.

Were looking at every single option, including military aid to civil power, he said. None of the options create a beautiful, elegant, simple, safe solution. They all come with massive risks. That option in particular, would come with massive risks, Chief Sloly told the National Post.

More protesters are expected to join the demonstration this weekend. The Freedom Convoy began as a stand against Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus vaccine mandate for cross-border truckers, but now includes people who are against masks and other Covid restrictions, and the liberal leader in general. It has also evolved into a range of range of illegal, dangerous and unacceptable activities, said Mr Sloly.

There have been reports of hate crimes, trucks running their engines 24 hours a day and sounding their horns at all hours, and desecration of public property, plus individuals bringing guns to the protest.

The more this demonstration continues, the more the risk to public safety increases, said Mr Sloly. Every option is on the table to resolve this demonstration. That said, there may not be a policing solution to this demonstration.

Local businesses and attractions have been affected but the demonstration. The Canadian Museum of Nature, the Canadian War Museum, The National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History are closed due to safety concerns during the protest. The nearby Rideau Centre, with nearly 200 stores, has also been closed since Saturday and will remain closed until at least 6 February.

Out of an abundance of caution as the events in downtown Ottawa continue to progress and based on direction from Ottawa Police Services and the City of Ottawa, Cadillac Fairview Rideau Centre will remain closed to the public for the remainder of the week, the Cadillac Fairview said in a statement.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has told protesters to move on: I get it, I hear you, but we have to let the people of Ottawa live their lives, he told reporters on Tuesday.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

OTTAWA  The Canadian Armed Forces has kicked out dozens of service members who refused to bare their arms and get vaccinated, while release proceedings have started for hundreds of others.

The steps come after chief of the defence staff Gen. Wayne Eyre ordered all military personnel be fully vaccinated by mid-October to protect the Armed Forces from COVID-19. The deadline was later extended to mid-December.

While most service members complied with the order, with the Defence Department reporting more than 98 per cent of Canadian troops had chosen to get vaccinated, hundreds of others did not. Those soldiers are now being forced to hang up their uniforms.

Members of the Canadian Armed Forces march during the Calgary Stampede parade in Calgary on July 8, 2016. The Department of National Defence says dozens of Canadian Armed Forces members who refused to get vaccinated have now been kicked out of the military. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

Fifty-eight full-time members of the Canadian Armed Forces had been involuntarily released for refusing to get their shots as of Wednesday, Defence Department spokesman Daniel Le Bouthillier said in an email.

Notices of Intent have been given to 246 others, meaning the formal process has now started for forcing them out as well, though Le Bouthillier said there is still a chance some could change their mind and remain in uniform by getting their vaccines.

Another 66 unvaccinated members of the regular force have voluntarily left the Canadian Armed Forces, he added.

Figures were not immediately available on the number of reservists who have been  or are in danger of being  kicked out.

The unprecedented moves follow months of warnings, counselling sessions and other efforts to convince vaccine-resistant troops to change their minds and get their jabs. Defence officials earlier this month said nearly 1,000 troops had been issued warnings.

Yet the releases are also certain to exacerbate the militarys ongoing shortage of personnel, which has grown worse during the pandemic as recruiting centres and training schools were forced to close or otherwise restrict their activities.

While the military is supposed to have around 100,000 troops at full strength, Defence Department figures show it was short around 10,000 members at the end of November.

Another 10,000 troops were listed as unavailable for duty because they were either untrained, sick or injured.

This comes at a time when the pandemic as well as growing international instability has resulted in the Armed Forces being tasked with an ever-growing list of requests for assistance at home and missions overseas.

Eyre in an interview in November acknowledged the Canadian Armed Forces is a fragile organization right now because of our numbers being down, because of the (operational) tempo, because of this crisis in (sexual) misconduct.

While lawyer and retired colonel Michel Drapeau said Armed Forces members who refuse to get vaccinated could be charged, Le Bouthillier could not immediately say whether that has happened.

Either way, Drapeau, who specializes in military law, said there are significant and long term implications on Armed Forces members pensions and other financial benefits for leaving the military before they have served for 25 years.

I totally agree with the decision of the Canadian military to release members who refuse to be vaccinated because they are no longer universally employable and deployable, which is at the very core of the military profession, he said in an email.

Several Armed Forces members tried to challenge the vaccine requirement in Federal Court last month, where they asked Justice Janet Fuhrer to intervene and stop the military from forcing them to get their shots.

But continuing a string of legal defeats for federal employees fighting vaccine requirements, Fuhrer dismissed their arguments.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 3, 2022.
LAUSANNE, Switzerland  Hundreds of Tibetans marched Thursday outside the Swiss headquarters of the International Olympic Committee, demanding freedom for their region as Beijing prepares to host the Winter Games.

Waving placards bearing messages like Save Tibet and No More Bloody Games, Tibetan expatriates from across Europe sought to send a message to Chinas ruling Communist Party.

Behind a tiny police escort, demonstrators waving scores of Tibetan flags were joined by a handful of men in monk-like robes and about a dozen supporters of Chinas Muslim Uyghur minority.

China doesnt recognize the self-declared Tibetan government-in-exile and accuses exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama of seeking to separate Tibet from China.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/bidens-burisma-dealings-undercut-us-anti-corruption-effort-in-ukraine-classified-email-reveals-1092722362.html

Bidens Burisma Dealings Undercut US Anti-Corruption Effort in Ukraine, Classified Email Reveals

Bidens Burisma Dealings Undercut US Anti-Corruption Effort in Ukraine, Classified Email Reveals

The scandal surrounding the Biden familys Ukraine connections began in 2014, when then-vice president Joe Bidens son Hunter took on a well-paid no-show job... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T14:51+0000

2022-02-03T14:51+0000

2022-02-03T14:54+0000

hunter biden

joe biden

burisma

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A State Department official expressed concerns to his colleagues privately during the final days of the Obama administration that Hunter Bidens job with Burisma was undermining Washingtons anti-corruption initiatives in Ukraine, a classified email obtained by Just the News has revealed.The two-page email, marked confidential by then-ambassador Marie Yovanovitch and sent out by former US Embassy official George Kent on 22 November 2016, was reportedly hidden away by the State Department. It was not publicized during the campaign to impeach Trump, and withheld amid multiple Freedom of Information Act requests for correspondence related to the Biden familys business dealings in Ukraine before finally being released.In the email, addressed to high-ranking State Department officials in Washington, Kent detailed the graft case against Mykola Zlochevsky, the Ukrainian oligarch and former minister of natural resources who founded Burisma Holdings, the company which paid Hunter Biden $1 million per year for a no-show job on the companys board.Ukrainian authorities first began an investigation into Burisma in 2012, with the company accused of money laundering, tax evasion and corruption, and Zlochevsky was accused of trying to bribe his way out of trouble.I told Dan I would be happy to share all of that with Sally, were she to call me. Dan said that he understood Sally was doing due diligence on exactly this issue, to make the case to Hunter. I never heard from Sally, Kent added, referring to senior Obama-era State Department officials Sally Painter and Dan Fried.Kent went on to recall that Painter called him in the fall of 2016, and said that she referred to Zlochevsky by his first namemaking clear the relationship was more than a passing one. Days later, Kent recalled, he learned that USAID had greenlit a new public-private sponsorship with Burisma related to a context for journalistic integrity in the energy sector.A second email, also dated 22 November 2016 and sent to State Department official Jorgan K Andrews and CCed to Kent, urged caution from the Atlantic Council (a powerful Washington-based think tank) regarding Zlochevsky amid the oligarchs reported efforts to rehabilitate his name.Zlochevsky is wanted in Ukraine for crimes related to corruption, but the case against him has been marred by even more corruption: Ukrainian officials controversially unfroze $23 million in a London bank account, and it disappears into the offshore systemDespite his ruined name in Ukraine, Zlochevsky is actively campaigning for public rehabilitation, particularly with us, the email, written by an unnamed official, indicated.Biden Familys Burisma SagaHunter Biden was hired to serve on Burismas board in the spring of 2014, and stayed on with the company until April 2019.In 2015, Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin stepped up the investigation against the company, with then-vice president Joe Biden traveling to Kiev in late 2015 to warn him that if Shokin was not fired immediately, Washington would freeze $1 billion in loan guarantees. Later, at a Council on Foreign Relations forum in 2018, Biden openly bragged that his personal intervention caused the Ukrainian prosecutor to be fired.I had gotten a commitment from [then-Ukrainian President Petro] Poroshenkothat they would take action against the state prosecutor. And they didntI said Im telling you youre not getting a billion dollars. I said youre not getting the billion and Im gonna be leaving here and I think it was what six hours  I looked [at my watch] and said Im leaving in six hours. If the prosecutor is not fired youre not getting the money. Well son of a b*tch! He got fired and they put in place someone who was solid at the time, Biden boasted. After Shokins dismissal, the investigation into Burisma was dropped.In 2020, alleged audio recordings of Biden and former US Secretary of State John Kerry pressuring Poroshenko to fire Shokin leaked online.The Biden Burisma saga became international news only in 2019, after a whistleblower made a complaint that Trump had phoned his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky to ask the latter to restart the Burisma probe. Democrats interpreted the phone call as a sign that Trump was trying to dig up dirt against Biden for the upcoming 2020 presidential election, and began an impeachment inquiry against the president. Trump was impeached on abuse of power and obstruction of Congress charges in late 2019, but was acquitted by the Senate in early 2020.Burisma reemerged to haunt the Bidens late in the presidential campaign, after the New York Post reported that it obtained evidence from a laptop purportedly belonging to Hunter Biden featuring emails confirming that Burisma had hired the vice presidents son to get political access to his powerful dad. Reporting on the story was heavily censored by the mainstream news media and by social media giants Facebook and Twitter.

https://sputniknews.com/20200817/joe-i-have-positive-news-for-you-trump-retweets-alleged-audio-of-biden-poroshenko-phone-call-1080198498.html

https://sputniknews.com/20210326/dorsey-admits-banning-hunter-biden-laptop-story-in-twitter-was-total-mistake-1082453898.html

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With a possible June primary election looming, Albemarle County is accelerating its redistricting process and has opened a month-long public comment period for three proposed alternative magisterial district and voting precinct maps.

On Wednesday, the Board of Supervisors approved an amended schedule that features a March 2 public hearing on the changes and board adoption of new districts on March 23.

The process was scheduled to finish in May but county Registrar Jake Washburne said that was too close to when early voting would have to begin should a June primary election be ordered as a result of a pending lawsuit to require all Virginia House of Delegates seats to run in 2022 under the new maps.

Since just about everybody in the countys voter information is going to change, we need to be able to send voter cards out to notify everyone, what is your new congressional district, what is your new state Senate District and House of Delegates, and that will be time consuming, Washburne said.

The proposed alternative magisterial district and voting precinct maps are available for review and for comment online at engage.albemarle.org/redistricting. The Board of Supervisors can also receive comments by email at bos@albemarle.org.

The county is running late on redistricting this year due to delayed 2020 Census results. Localities are required to redraw their magisterial districts every 10 years, which would normally have happened in 2021.

Albemarle saw a population increase of about 13.6%, from 98,970 in 2010 to 112,395 in 2020. In redistricting, each district would have an ideal population of about 18,730 people, and districts need to have about 5% deviation from that number.

Due to uneven population growth, White Hall and Rio districts need to lose population, Samuel Miller and Scottsville districts need to gain population and Jack Jouett and Rivanna districts are in the middle.

A state law enacted in 2020 requires each precinct to be wholly contained within a single congressional district, state Senate district, House of Delegates district, and local governing body or school board district.

Late last year, the Supreme Court of Virginia approved new state maps, after the Virginia Redistricting Commission failed to draw them within the 45 days allotted by the state constitution. All of Albemarle is part of a new 11th District in the Virginia Senate, and is split between the 54th and 55th districts for the Virginia House of Delegates.

Previously, the county had been split between two state senate districts and four house districts.

Albemarle remains almost entirely in the 5th Congressional District, but a new 7th District made up of Rockingham and Greene counties includes a small sliver of Albemarle County.

At your next meeting, we will be asking to pass a resolution to ask the State Department of Elections for a waiver to administer a split voting precinct. Because theres no way we could create a single voting precinct out of that tiny sliver, Washburne said.

To conform to the new House of Delegates district boundary line, all three proposed maps would extend the University precinct in the Jack Jouett District south, moving some voters from the East Ivy precinct and the Samuel Miller District into the University precinct and the Jack Jouett District.

They would all also move some voters in the Scottsville District from the Stone-Robinson precinct into the Mountain View precinct.

All three proposed maps extend the Free Bridge precinct north along the Rivanna River to conform to the boundary line, moving some voters from Pantops precinct into Free Bridge precinct. The new extension stays in the Rivanna District.

The three options shuffle voters among precincts in the districts and the third option also moves some voters from Mechums River precinct in the White Hall District to a new precinct dubbed South Ivy in the Samuel Miller District. The option also splits the remaining Ivy precinct in half, sending one half into the new precinct. A new polling place would have to be determined.

In a letter to the board, the Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors has asked supervisors to consider adding a seventh member and to draw at least one map reflecting seven single-member districts.

Supervisors on Wednesday fell short of being out-right supportive of adding a seventh member, either by an added district or an at-large board member.

Board member Ned Gallaway said he wouldnt be opposed to a discussion about a seventh member.

From a constituent standpoint, this has not been [a topic] that has been raised a lot in my conversations with folks, he said.

Supervisor Bea LaPisto-Kirtley said she has not heard from any of her constituents that they want a seven magisterial district or seventh representative.

Thats come mainly from developers because the rationale was its easier to get four votes out of seven than four votes out of six for their projects, she said. I personally would rather hear from the constituents.

County Attorney Greg Kamptner said county staff did not recommend pursuing adding a member during this redistricting. If the board did want to pursue adding a member, it could do it outside of the redistricting process, he said, but adding an at-large member would require voter approval.

Either the board or a petition of voters has to first take it to a referendum in one general election and it would be effective at the next general election, Kamptner said. The board at any time can decide whether it wants to add a magisterial district, and that process does not require a referendum.

If the board ever added an at-large member, they would be the chair, which is a requirement in the state law for county executive forms of government, like Albemarles.
Students can compete in essay contest to win scholarships

DES MOINES, Iowa --News Direct-- Principal Financial Group

Des Moines, Iowa, February 3, 2022 /3BL Media/  Principal Foundation is inviting high school students across the U.S. to participate in the Black History Month Challenge for a chance to win a college scholarship. The challenge was created by EVERFI, an innovator in digital social impact education, to help students in grades 9-12 understand the events that have shaped Black history and their connections to today.

The Black History Month Challenge is open to all students between the ages of 13-18, and presents a fun and interactive way to explore some of the lesser-known stories about the Black experience in the U.S. The lessons also celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of Black business titans and explore Black contributions to medicine.

Students will complete four digital lessons and compete in a capstone essay contest by answering a question about what they have learned. EVERFI, with support from Principal Foundation, will award a combined total of $5,000 in scholarships to three winners of the challenge. Last year, nearly 1,200 students participated in the Principal inaugural support of the Black History Month Challenge.

To participate, visit this link: Black History Month | Principal Financial Group (everfi-next.net). All entries must be submitted by February 28, 2022 to be eligible to win.

About Principal

Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc. (Principal Foundation) is a duly recognized 501(c)(3) entity focused on providing philanthropic support to programs that build financial security in the communities where Principal Financial Group, Inc. (Principal) operates. While Principal Foundation receives funding from Principal, Principal Foundation is a distinct, independent, charitable entity. Principal Foundation does not practice any form of investment advisory services and is not authorized to do so.

Story continues

###

EVERFI is not an affiliate of any company of the Principal Financial Group.Principal, Principal Financial Group, and Principal and the logomark design are registered trademarks of Principal Financial Services, Inc., a Principal Financial Group company, in the United States and are trademarks and service marks of Principal Financial Services, Inc., in various countries around the world. 2022 Principal Financial Services, Inc.2013557-022022

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Principal Financial Group on 3blmedia.com

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/principal-r-foundation-sponsors-everfi-black-history-month-challenge-838996953
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/hindu-students-don-saffron-shawls-as-they-join-hijab-row-in-indias-karnataka-1092710788.html

Hindu Students Don Saffron Shawls as They Join Hijab Row in India's Karnataka

Hindu Students Don Saffron Shawls as They Join Hijab Row in India's Karnataka

On 1 January 2022, six Muslim female students at Government Pre-University College in Karnataka states Udupi District accused the principal of not allowing... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T14:29+0000

2022-02-03T14:29+0000

2022-07-19T10:41+0000

hijab

hijab

karnataka state

college

hindus

muslim

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The hijab controversy, which broke out in the Udupi district of India's Karnataka state in January, has intensified as more Muslim students studying in other colleges have been forbidden to enter the classrooms wearing their traditional headscarves. Hindu students began wearing saffron shawls as a mark of protest against their Hijab-clad classmates. The latest incident took place on World Hijab Day (1 February), when six students of the Government Pre-University College for Girls in Udupi were denied entry into the classroom because they were wearing the hijab. In a way to protest against Muslim headscarves, a group of Hindu students turned up at Kundapur Pre-University College, also in Udupi, wearing saffron shawls and scarves. A video of it has gone viral on the internet.The "hijab versus saffron shawl" controversy escalated over the succeeding days in several other colleges, giving the colleges' administrators a tough time.In a recent viral video, 27 Muslim girls of Kundapur Pre-University College can be seen asking their principal to let them attend classes ahead of their exams that fall in two months.Several other colleges in the state have faced similar situations over wearing the hijab, including Bhandarkars' College of Kundapur and Sir M Vishweshwaraiah Government Arts and Commerce College in Bhadravathi in Shimoga district.Ever since state education minister, Bellur Chandrashekharaiah Nagesh, directed college authorities only to allow those students who were dressed in uniforms, administrators have denied entry to those wearing the hijab or saffron shawls.Jagadish Karanth, a leading member of Hindu activist group, Hindu Jagarana Vedike, has said that Hindu students are ready to stop wearing saffron shawls in college if Muslim girls throw off their hijab.On Thursday, a petition was filed in Karnataka High Court seeking to permit students to attend classes wearing the hijab without any interference from college administrators.The state government has convened a high-level committee to decide on whether the wearing of hijab by students in classrooms should be allowed.

karnataka state

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hijab, hijab, karnataka state, college, hindus, muslim
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/rt-france-says-investigation-by-french-watchdog-was-planned-linked-to-ban-in-germany-1092722224.html

RT France Says Investigation by French Watchdog Was Planned, Linked to Ban in Germany

RT France Says Investigation by French Watchdog Was Planned, Linked to Ban in Germany

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - RT France on Thursday said that the investigation launched by the French watchdog was planned as part of a wider campaign against the... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T15:00+0000

2022-02-03T15:00+0000

2022-02-03T14:58+0000

rt france

france

russia

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https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/107246/03/1072460384_0:168:2782:1733_1920x0_80_0_0_20b3d49825e8e0e581795e94c05b1cf4.jpg

On Wednesday, RT France chief Ksenia Fedorova said on Telegram that French media watchdog Arcom had launched an investigation into the broadcaster. She cited French magazine Challenges saying that a number of French associations had reported about omissions in the RT France's coverage, including stories on "yellow vests" and the situation in Syria and the Central African Republic.The chief editor mentioned that RT France has requested clarification from the watchdog, but has yet to receive any response.Earlier on Thursday, Russia banned Deutsche Welle's broadcast in the country in response to Germany's earlier ban of RT DE broadcast.

france

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An American Islamic convert who taught Lisa Smith about the Quran and helped get her out of a women's "prison" in Syria was wanted by the FBI to face charges for supporting a terrorist organisation, the Special Criminal Court has heard.

In interviews with gardai Ms Smith, a former Irish soldier who denies membership of Islamic State, said that in March 2016 John Georgelas (aka Abu Hassan) got her out of a "madaffa" where she said she had been imprisoned for five months with 50 to 60 other women in a single house.

FBI agent Alan Goehring today (THU) told prosecution counsel Sean Gillane SC that on June 14, 2016 the FBI put Georgelas on an Interpol "red alert recall notice" as he was wanted to face three charges: for providing material support to a terrorist organisation, conspiring to support a terrorist organisation, and for a crime of violence.

Agent Goehring also told the court that in 2006 Georgelas was sentenced to 34 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to accessing a protected computer to access passwords protecting the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) website. The court previously heard from witness Tania Joya that Georgelas intended to use the passwords to damage the organisation's website.

Agent Goehring further revealed that on foot of a request from gardai he had gained access to Facebook messages and photographs belonging to the account of "Yahyah Abu Hassan".

The court also heard today that Ms Smith told gardai that when she travelled to the Islamic State she wanted to get away from alcohol, prostitution and gay people, all of which she said are forbidden under Sharia law.

Ms Smith (39) from Dundalk, Co Louth has pleaded not (NOT) guilty to membership of an unlawful terrorist group, Islamic State, between October 28th, 2015 and December 1st, 2019. She has also pleaded not (NOT) guilty to financing terrorism by sending 800 in assistance, via a Western Union money transfer, to a named man on May 6th, 2015.

The court spent its third day listening to interviews Ms Smith gave to gardai after she returned to Dublin from Syria in December 2019 and was arrested and taken to Kevin St Garda Station.

Detective Garda Eddie Carr told Mr Gillane that Ms Smith said she would not have gone to Syria only for the religious obligation she felt to go to the Islamic State.

She said she felt "uneasy" about going and wanted to go to Tunisia but Georgelas and others told her the announcement of the caliphate was real and she felt she had to go. She said she didn't go to "join anything" but to create an Islamic State where she could live and have a family where Muslims could "live in peace" and not be spat at in the street. When she got there, she said, "it turned out to be a disaster."

She told gardai that her own husband at the time had warned her not to go to Syria but she thought he was just young and didn't know anything so she turned to Georgelas and others for advice.

They told her the Islamic State or caliphate was "real" and they pressured her into going, she said. Gardai asked her about videos she had seen of ISIS on the internet. She said there were other videos showing good things about the Islamic State and telling you that you would have "jobs, rights and Sharia".

She said a lot of people "lie about Muslims to make them look really bad," and she didn't know what the truth was.

She said she didn't go there to fight and never held a gun while in Syria. She said she was not there to provide military expertise and said that although her husband, a Pakistani/British Muslim she married after leaving the madaffa, had a Kalashnikov rifle, he never used it.

All the men had Kalashnikovs, she said. She described herself as a "survivor of Islamic State" and said she tried many times to leave but couldn't. She had no role in Islamic State, she said, and did not provide assistance.

Gardai said they found it hard to believe that she never held a gun while in Syria. She responded: "I know you find it hard to believe but that's the truth. I didn't carry a gun. Anyone who knows me knows I wouldn't pick up a weapon and fight for stuff like that."

She said that she liked living in the Islamic State at first because there were no pubs selling alcohol, no prostitution and no gay people. "It was nice for a Muslim to live in that environment," she said.

She told gardai that under Islamic law nobody is allowed to do anything to gay people or anyone else, adding: "I'm just saying it's not allowed."

She spoke about suicide attacks by ISIS including an attack in France in 2015 which happened after she had arrived in Syria.

She said the Quran says you must not kill yourself. She said she does not agree with suicide attacks and said that under Islam it is "plain and it is clear, you are not allowed."

She said she doesn't know about things that are reported in the media about Islamic State or ISIS but said that if they did carry out suicide bombings, "they are wrong and they need to cop on to themselves."

She said that she went to Syria for religious reasons and "definitely was not going to fight with terrorists."

When she arrived in Syria and was put in a "madaffa", a home for single women, she said she was "shocked" at the conditions.

She described the madaffa as "like a prison for women" and said she couldn't understand why the Islamic State was building such prisons.

She said that after about five months, Georgelas got her out. She didn't know how he managed it because it was usually forbidden for women to go anywhere without a husband but she thought he might have said that she was coming to live with his family.

The trial continues in front of Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding, with Judge Gerard Griffin and Judge Cormac Dunne at the non-jury court.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/boris-johnsons-policy-chief-resigns-over-pms-scurrilous-savile-remark-1092725699.html

Boris Johnson's Policy Chief Resigns Over PM's 'Scurrilous' Savile Remark

Boris Johnson's Policy Chief Resigns Over PM's 'Scurrilous' Savile Remark

This resignation comes in protest over remarks made by the Prime Minister in parliament earlier this week. 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T16:27+0000

2022-02-03T16:27+0000

2022-02-03T18:57+0000

uk

policy

chief

resignation

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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's head of policy, Munira Mirza, has resigned, Downing Street announced. On Monday, during a regular Q&A in parliament, Johnson and Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer, exchanged heated remarks about the "partygate" scandal. After Starmer repeatedly called on MPs to oust Johnson, the Prime Minister responded by accusing Starmer, while he was Director of Public Prosecutions, of "failing to prosecute" paedophile, sexual predator and TV personality Jimmy Savile.According to Mirza's resignation letter obtained by the Spectator, she believes that Johnson's remark "was an inappropriate and partisan reference to a horrendous case of child sexual abuse. Johnson tried to clarify his remarks on Thursday by saying he had been "talking not about the leader of the oppositions personal record when he was director of public prosecutions", adding that he totally understands that Starmer "had nothing to do personally with those decisions". However, this clarification did not convince Mirza, who reportedly wrote: "You tried to clarify your position today but, despite my urging, you did not apologise for the misleading impression you gave." She added that it was so desperately sad that you let yourself down by making a scurrilous accusation against the leader of the opposition.Munira Mirza, 44, has worked with Boris Johnson for more than 14 years and was deputy mayor for Education and Culture when he was mayor of London.When asked to comment on Mirza's resignation, Johnson said in an interview with 5 News channel: "I'm sorry to lose Munira." He added that he does not agree with her criticism of his remarks to Starmer which she described "inappropriate". In a separate development, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister confirmed that Boris Johnson's Director of Communications Jack Doyle has stepped down. Doyle reportedly told staff that the latest weeks in Downing Street have "taken a terrible toll" on his family life.

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Sofia Chegodaeva

Sofia Chegodaeva

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Sofia Chegodaeva

uk, policy, chief, resignation
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Daycare costs for thousands of families will drop early next week as the provincial government expands its Manitoba Child Care Subsidy Program to cover nearly half of the provinces regulated spots.

Beginning Sunday, an estimated 12,000 more daycare spaces will qualify for partial or full subsidies, Premier Heather Stefanson said during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Thursday.

The pair was also joined by federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Karina Gould, federal Northern Affairs Minister Dan Vandal and Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko.

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS As of Feb. 6, eligibility for the Manitoba Child Care Subsidy Program will expand to include about 12,000 additional regulated child-care spots, Premier Heather Stefanson announced Thursday.

Just 6,000 families in Manitoba currently receive subsidies for child care, representing about 16 per cent of the 38,000 regulated spots in the province.

As weve seen over the course of the pandemic, access to child care is absolutely vital to ensuring women and families can continue to work and provide critical services to Manitobans, Stefanson said.

Net income thresholds to qualify for the subsidy program will be increased by approximately 45 per cent. Income thresholds have not changed since 2013 and have not kept up with minimum-wage increases.

Households with a net income of $37,116 could qualify for a full subsidy while households with a net income of $82,877 could qualify for a partial subsidy. The change is estimated to save families an average of about 30 per cent in out-of-pocket child-care fees.

The federal government provided $64.5 million through the Canada-Manitoba Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care agreement to supplement the new eligibility criteria.

Overall funding for the program will increase to $82.7 million annually.

Manitoba signed on to the agreement last August; it came with $1.2 billion in federal cash over five years. Under the agreement, the province has committed to reducing child-care fees by 50 per cent by the end of the year and reaching an average $10 out-of-pocket fee per day by March 2023.

We know that costs are significant around the country because of this pandemic, thats where this boost will help them with everything from groceries to gas to what they need to get through winter at a time that is really challenging, Trudeau said via a virtual connection from Ottawa.

In an interview with the Free Press, Gould said discussions are ongoing between the two governments on a renewed minimum-wage grid for early childhood educators.

It is about ensuring that we are providing fair wages, because they do really difficult and hard work, and we entrust them with our kids and so we need to pay them adequately, Gould said.

Details are expected to be made public soon and will include a one-time funding boost to support recruitment and retention in the sector to support the addition of new child-care spots.

We havent, as a society, placed value on child care like we need to, Gould said. A lot of people, women in particular, have known and have been advocating for a system like the one that were bringing in today for over 50 years in Canada.

University of Manitoba sociology professor Susan Prentice said expanding subsidies for child care will offer relief to some families but is only a stop gap solution to larger, systemic issues in the child-care sector.

This will help some low-income parents but I want to be clear, the price of child care in Manitoba has not changed, said Prentice, a public policy researcher and leading expert on child care.

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS We know that costs are significant around the country because of this pandemic, thats where this boost will help them with everything from groceries to gas to what they need to get through winter at a time that is really challenging, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said via a virtual connection from Ottawa.

We need to rethink what it means to try to deliver a 21st century child-care system for Manitoba.

Prentice said she was alarmed to see the government increase the reliance on subsidies while offering few specifics when it comes to overall program funding and wages.

Its time to reform the policy architecture for child care, Prentice said. Its not just enough to layer a small change on top of a shaky foundation. Its time to redefine child care so its widely accessible and high quality for all the families that want to use it.

And as the government begins to implement plans to improve quality and affordability, Prentice said the devil will be in the details.

This first step is creating an illusion of more affordability without really making more affordability, she said. I think the fact that theres not a whole budget review happening bodes very badly for efficiency and effectiveness, and making good on the promises to families.

Meanwhile, Manitoba Child Care Association executive director Jodie Kehl said a comprehensive workforce strategy will be essential to the expanded delivery of child care in the province.

The sector is currently in distress due to critical staff shortages and needs immediate support to respond to the pandemic.

Early childhood educators and home-based providers are the foundation (on) which our system exists, Kehl said. At the heart of high-quality child care is educated and well-remunerated early childhood educators.

Weve continued to say for the last 24 months, that thanks to child care, Manitoba works.

danielle.dasilva@freepress.mb.ca
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/preemptive-sanctions-against-russia-over-ukraine-almost-ready-senior-us-senator-says-1092725845.html

Preemptive Sanctions Against Russia Over Ukraine Almost Ready, Senior US Senator Says

Preemptive Sanctions Against Russia Over Ukraine Almost Ready, Senior US Senator Says

Washington and its allies have threatened to slap Moscow with several rounds of tough sanctions targeting everything from Russian sovereign debt to the foreign... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T16:35+0000

2022-02-03T16:35+0000

2022-02-03T19:03+0000

sanctions

russia

america

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The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is on the brink of reaching an agreement to roll out new preventative sanctions against Russia, Senator Jeanne Shaheen has announced.As we look at whats happening right now in Ukraine, this is the potential for the biggest conflict since World War II, and if we dont take a stand against [Vladimir] Putin now and hold him accountable, its not at all clear what country is going to be next, Shaheen said, speaking at a virtual forum held by the Center for Strategic & International Studies, a Washington-based think tank on Wednesday.On top of that, Shaheen warned that Washington was also looking at massive sanctions on Putin and Russia so that should he invade Ukraine, he would feel and the country would feel very directly, the impact of those sanctions.No 'Invasion' to Fear, Ukraine SaysSenior Ukrainian officials including President Volodymyr Zelensky, the countrys defence minister, and the secretary of the National Security and Defence Council have recently broken with their Western patrons regarding the Russian invasion danger, either privately or publicly dismissing US and European chatter about Russian invasion plans, and criticizing foreign media for whipping up tensions.Stoking TensionsMoscow has repeatedly denied that it has any plans to invade its neighbour, and accused Western powers of stoking tensions as an excuse to beef up NATOs military presence near Russias borders. On Wednesday, the Pentagon announced that President Biden has approved redeploying 1,000 US troops from Germany to Romania, with 2,000 more to be shipped out to Poland and Germany from the US in the coming days. On top of that, the US will continue to maintain and possibly beef up the 8,500 troop-strong heightened alert force stationed in the US and ready to ship out to Europe at a moments notice.Also on Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that the administration would no longer use the word imminent to describe the possibility of a Russian invasion of Ukraine because it still [doesnt] know whether President Putin has made a decision to attack the country.Putin blasted the US and its NATO allies on Tuesday, saying that the Western bloc had failed to take Russian concerns about NATOs expansion and the deployment of missile systems near Russian borders into account.The Russian Foreign Ministry published a pair of security proposals aimed at significantly easing tensions between Moscow and the West  including by limiting troop, missile, aircraft and warship deployments near one anothers borders. The proposals asked the US and NATO to commit to halt the Western blocs expansion into any more former Soviet republics, including Ukraine and Georgia, and limit troop deployments to countries that joined the alliance after the end of the Cold War. US and NATO officials formally rejected the Russian proposals last week, saying the alliances open door policy will not be scrapped. Moscow has warned that it will be forced to create a system of counter-threats if its security proposals were rejected but has yet to reveal what these may look like.

https://sputniknews.com/20220202/russia-has-plans-to-hedge-risks-in-event-of-new-us-economic-sanctions-kremlin-says-1092681724.html

https://sputniknews.com/20220131/russian-assets-in-uk-may-be-frozen-in-accordance-with-new-sanctions-bill-foreign-secretary-says-1092643372.html

https://sputniknews.com/20220131/nato-chief-calls-for-europe-to-diversify-its-energy-supplies--1092628216.html

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Ilya Tsukanov

Ilya Tsukanov

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Ilya Tsukanov

sanctions, america
Pune, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Polystyrene Market Analysis and Insights: The global Polystyrene market was valued at USD 20760 million in 2020 and it is expected to reach USD 24850 million by the end of 2027, growing at a CAGR of 2.6% during 2021-2027.

Global " Polystyrene Market " Research Report gives an important analysis of available states with the best statistical data points, certified emotions, definition, meaning, SWOT analysis, and the most recent advancements globally. Estimates are also provided based on an appropriate set of assumptions and practices. The study considers the income created by this report's sales as well as the advancements achieved by distinct application areas. The evaluation report investigates and gives data based on advertise segments such as geologies, applications, and industries. The study gives a dashboard overview of major organizations like INEOS Styrolution, Total Petrochemicals, Trinseo, Americas Styrenics and others, covering their effective marketing methods, market participation, and recent breakthroughs in both historical and contemporary contexts.

Get a Sample PDF of report @ https://www.industryresearch.biz/enquiry/request-sample/19783918

About Polystyrene Market:

Polystyrene is a type of polymer with thermoplastic properties produced from the petroleum-derived monomer, styrene. In solid form, it is a colorless and rigid plastic, but it may also be returned to a liquid state by heating, and used again for molding or extrusion. It is used to produce many products for industrial and consumer use. In fact, its presence as a plastic in everyday life is second only to polyethylene.

Global Polystyrene main players are INEOS Styrolution, Total Petrochemicals, Trinseo, Americas Styrenics, etc. Global top four manufacturers hold a share over 30%. China is the largest market, with a share about 40%.



Corporate profiles include important information such as company reviews, products, and services, financial data sources, as well as current programs and developments. Overall, the report provides a comprehensive overview of the Polystyrene global market, which will help industry players, equipment manufacturers, and current players looking for expansion opportunities, new players as they grow older. Finding opportunities with other partners to support their strategy makes their business based on current data, and future prospects.

Target Audience of Polystyrene Market:

- Manufacturer / Potential Investors

- Traders, Distributors, Wholesalers, Retailers, Importers, and Exporters.

- Association and government bodies.

List of Key Players in Polystyrene Market Report are:

INEOS Styrolution

Total Petrochemicals

Trinseo

Americas Styrenics

Sabic

Supreme Petrochem

PS Japan

Toyo Engineer

LG Chem

Formosa Chemicals

Sinopec

Chi Mei Corporation

CNPC

Yunfeng

BASF-YPC Company

Astor Chemical

TO UNDERSTAND HOW COVID-19 IMPACT IS COVERED IN THIS REPORT

A recent study by Polystyrene Market provides an overview of market segmentation by product, application, and geography. The study also contains an in-depth examination of the industry's growth drivers, restraints, supply and demand risk, market attractiveness, BPS analysis, and Porter's five force model. The study then investigates the market's development state and prospective Polystyrene Market design all over the world. Similarly, it categorizes the Polystyrene market by type and application in order to completely and comprehensively investigate and uncover market features and opportunities.

On the basis of Product Type, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share, and growth rate of Polystyrene Market types split into:

General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS)

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)

On the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume, market share, and Polystyrene market growth rate with applications, including:

Packaging

Appliances

Consumer Electronics

Construction

Others

The evaluation also focuses on worldwide corporate executives in the Polystyrene global market, covering firm history, product photographs, and descriptions, licensing, production, price, pricing, pricing, and contact information. The structure, volume, and value of the Polystyrene market are examined at the global, regional, and company levels in this report. This research analyses historical data and future prospects to summarize Polystyrene worldwide worth.

Enquire before purchasing this report - https://www.industryresearch.biz/enquiry/pre-order-enquiry/19783918

Five Important Points the Polystyrene Market Report Offers:

Benchmarking : It includes functional benchmarking, process benchmarking, and competitive benchmarking

Market Assessment : It involves market entry strategy, market feasibility analysis, and market forecasting or sizing

Corporate Intelligence : It contains custom intelligence, competitor intelligence, and market intelligence

Strategy Analysis : It includes analysis of indirect and direct sales channels, helps you to plan the right distribution strategy, and understand your customers

Technological Intelligence : It helps you to investigate future technology roadmaps, choose the right technologies, and determine feasible technology options

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

How has the global Polystyrene market performed in the previous years (2016-2021)?

What is the forecast assessment of the Polystyrene market for 2022-2027?

What are the major drivers in the historical (2016-2021) and forecast periods?

What are the major constraints in the historical (2016-2021) and forecast periods?

What are the major demand indicators of the Polystyrene market?

What is the degree of competition in the global market?

What are the major events and developments taking place within the global industry?

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Abatement by assessing production processes, key problems and solutions.

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Understand future prospects and market prospects.

Additionally, to plain structured reports, we offer inquiries tailored to your specific needs.

Key inclusions of the Polystyrene market report:

COVID-19 effects on growth figures.

Statistical analysis pertaining to market size, sales volume, and overall industry revenue.

Organized mentions of major market trends.

Growth opportunities.

Figures showcasing market growth rate.

Advantages and disadvantages of direct and indirect sales channels.

Insights regarding traders, distributors, and dealers present in the industry.

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What Report Exactly Offers to the Buyers?

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Market methodologies that are being involved by driving particular organizations

Get a detailed representation of the Polystyrene Market.

The assessed growth rate, together with Polystyrene Industry size and share over the forecast period 2022-2027.

Major Points from TOC:

1 Polystyrene Market Overview

1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Ammonia Electric Heater

1.2 Polystyrene Segment by Type

1.2.1 Global Polystyrene Market Size Growth Rate Analysis by Type 2021 VS 2027

1.3 Polystyrene Segment by Application

1.3.1 Global Polystyrene Consumption Comparison by Application: 2016 VS 2021 VS 2027

1.4 Global Market Growth Prospects

1.4.1 Global Polystyrene Revenue Estimates and Forecasts (2016-2027)

1.4.2 Global Polystyrene Production Estimates and Forecasts (2016-2027)

1.5 Global Market Size by Region

1.5.1 Global Polystyrene Market Size Estimates and Forecasts by Region: 2016 VS 2021 VS 2027

1.5.2 North America Polystyrene Estimates and Forecasts (2016-2027)

1.5.3 Europe Polystyrene Estimates and Forecasts (2016-2027)

1.5.4 China Polystyrene Estimates and Forecasts (2016-2027)

1.5.5 Japan Polystyrene Estimates and Forecasts (2016-2027)



2 Market Competition by Manufacturers

2.1 Global Polystyrene Production Market Share by Manufacturers (2016-2021)

2.2 Global Polystyrene Revenue Market Share by Manufacturers (2016-2021)

2.3 Polystyrene Market Share by Company Type (Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3)

2.4 Global Polystyrene Average Price by Manufacturers (2016-2021)

2.5 Manufacturers Polystyrene Production Sites, Area Served, Product Types

2.6 Polystyrene Market Competitive Situation and Trends

2.6.1 Polystyrene Market Concentration Rate

2.6.2 Global 5 and 10 Largest Polystyrene Players Market Share by Revenue

2.6.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion



3 Production and Capacity by Region

3.1 Global Production of Polystyrene Market Share by Region (2016-2021)

3.2 Global Polystyrene Revenue Market Share by Region (2016-2021)

3.3 Global Polystyrene Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2016-2021)

3.4 North America Polystyrene Production

3.4.1 North America Polystyrene Production Growth Rate (2016-2021)

3.4.2 North America Polystyrene Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2016-2021)

3.5 Europe Polystyrene Production

3.5.1 Europe Polystyrene Production Growth Rate (2016-2021)

3.5.2 Europe Polystyrene Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2016-2021)

3.6 China Polystyrene Production

3.6.1 China Polystyrene Production Growth Rate (2016-2021)

3.6.2 China Polystyrene Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2016-2021)

3.7 Japan Polystyrene Production

3.7.1 Japan Polystyrene Production Growth Rate (2016-2021)

3.7.2 Japan Polystyrene Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2016-2021)



4 Global Polystyrene Consumption by Region

4.1 Global Polystyrene Consumption by Region

4.1.1 Global Polystyrene Consumption by Region

4.1.2 Global Polystyrene Consumption Market Share by Region

4.2 North America

4.2.1 North America Polystyrene Consumption by Country

4.2.2 United States

4.2.3 Canada

4.3 Europe

4.3.1 Europe Polystyrene Consumption by Country

4.3.2 Germany

4.3.3 France

4.3.4 U.K.

4.3.5 Italy

4.3.6 Russia

4.4 Asia Pacific

4.4.1 Asia Pacific Polystyrene Consumption by Region

4.4.2 China

4.4.3 Japan

4.4.4 South Korea

4.4.5 Taiwan

4.4.6 Southeast Asia

4.4.7 India

4.4.8 Australia

4.5 Latin America

4.5.1 Latin America Polystyrene Consumption by Country

4.5.2 Mexico

4.5.3 Brazil



5 Production, Revenue, Price Trend by Type

5.1 Global Polystyrene Production Market Share by Type (2016-2021)

5.2 Global Polystyrene Revenue Market Share by Type (2016-2021)

5.3 Global Polystyrene Price by Type (2016-2021)



6 Consumption Analysis by Application

6.1 Global Polystyrene Consumption Market Share by Application (2016-2021)

6.2 Global Polystyrene Consumption Growth Rate by Application (2016-2021)



7 Key Companies Profiled



8 Polystyrene Manufacturing Cost Analysis

8.1 Polystyrene Key Raw Materials Analysis

8.1.1 Key Raw Materials

8.1.2 Key Raw Materials Price Trend

8.1.3 Key Suppliers of Raw Materials

8.2 Proportion of Manufacturing Cost Structure

8.3 Manufacturing Process Analysis of Ammonia Electric Heater

8.4 Polystyrene Industrial Chain Analysis



9 Marketing Channel, Distributors, and Customers

10 Market Dynamics

11 Production and Supply Forecast

13 Forecast by Type and by Application (2022-2027)

14 Research Finding and Conclusion

Continued.

Detailed TOC of Global Polystyrene Market @ https://www.industryresearch.biz/TOC/19783918

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White House Press Secretary Holds Briefing Aboard Air Force One En Route to NYC

White House Press Secretary Holds Briefing Aboard Air Force One En Route to NYC

Earlier in the day, US President Joe Biden announced that US forces carried out a successful counterterrorism operation in Syria which resulted in the death of... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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Watch a live broadcast as the White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki is holding a briefing aboard Air Force One en route to New York City on Thursday, 3 February.The briefing is being held hours after the US President announced that the US military forces had successfully undertaken a counterterrorism operation in Syria's Idlib province that led to the elimination of top Daesh* leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi. Biden is expected to provide more details on the operation later in the day. *Daesh (IS/ISIS/ISIL) is a terrorist organisation banned in Russia.*Follow Sputnik's live feed to find out more.

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During its Jan. 18 meeting, the ESU-13 Board of Education voted unanimously to approve Laura Barrett as the ESU-13 Administrator. Barrett has been serving as the interim administrator after former administrator Andrew Dick accepted a superintendent position with Scottsbluff Public Schools last spring, as well as co-coordinator for the Nebraska Department of Educations Multi-Tiered System of Support Project this past year.

Barrett will begin to make the transition to permanent administrator for the 2022-23 school year.

Laura has come up through the ranks of the service unit over the years, recently earning her Educational Doctorate from the University of Nebraska. She will bring her enthusiasm, experience and vision for the future of the unit and school districts of the Panhandle schools and students, ESU-13 Board President Mark Sinner said in a press release. Laura is very well known and respected across the state at all levels of education. On behalf of the board, congratulations to Dr. Laura Barrett.

Barrett said she is looking forward to setting new goals and building on what the service unit already has going for it.

Im excited about it. Its nice to be able to think about the future and what could be, she said. As interim you want to be able to maintain that quality, but not ruffle anything that might be different with the new administrator, and so knowing that I get to stay on board with our team is exciting. So then we can start to move forward in setting goals for the future.

Some of those goals, for Barrett, include expanding ESU-13s programs and services in the early childhood education and behavioral health areas, as well as career and technical education.

One of the areas that we really know is big within our service area is really just how do we continue to support teachers and administrators? Its a hard job, and just (we want to find) new ways to make sure that our programs help them have the skills they need, she said. I anticipate were going to see more of a need for our early childhood programming and support as well as our behavior and mental health. And one other area were really just on the cusp of really starting to increase is career and technical education and our support for teachers who do that.

Barrett also said one of her main initiatives will be to continue educating the public about what exactly ESU-13 does.

Were, unfortunately, the best kept secret, she said. Not everybody knows of the things that we do, which is great that were behind the scenes, but I think sometimes growing that awareness of our programs is going to be important.

Educational Service Unit #13 provides services to 11 counties and 21 school districts in the Panhandle of Nebraska, proudly serving more than 14,000 students and over 1,000 teachers. To learn more about the wide range of services the unit offers, visit www.esu13.org.

Barrett has been in education for nearly 17 years, many of them with ESU-13. According to the press prelease, Barrett served the unit in a variety of roles prior to her current ones, including Teacher of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Assistant Coordinator for the Central/Western Nebraska Partnership for Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Secondary Transition Specialist, Special Education Coordinator and Director. Barrett also served as the Director of Student Services for Gering Public Schools.
New Delhi: Although Bollywood celebrities live lavish lives, they are not immune to illnesses and hardships. Many actors have been vocal about their struggles with mental and physical health issues they have faced behind the camera. They've also become a beam of inspiration for fans who may be suffering from the same illnesses.

On World Cancer Day (February 4), we take a moment to honour the brave Bollywood celebs that fought cancer and showed us how to stay positive in the bleakest times.

Sonali Bendre

The 90s actress was diagnosed with metastatic cancer in 2018. Her journey was a painful one as she went through intense treatment in New York. However, even in her lowest moment, she stayed positive and shared pictures of herself during every stage of treatment. Ever since the treatment, Sonali is doing well and continues to spread cancer awareness online.

Anurag Basu

The talented director, Anurag Basu battled Leukemia which is a form of blood cancer. The Barfi director was diagnosed with the disease in 2004 and underwent 3 years of chemotherapy before making a full recovery. He has talked about his experience in many interviews.

Manisha Koirala

Indian actress, Manisha Koirala is a brave survivor of a deadly Stage IV Ovarian Cancer. She was diagnosed with the disease in 2012 and tirelessly fought the illness in New York for months before triumphing over it. After her treatment, she released her memoir titled 'Healed: How Cancer Gave Me A New Life', in which she describes how she rebuilt her life post such a challenging experience.

Lisa Ray

The Four More Shots actress was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, another type of rare blood cancer in 2009. Soon after, she started The Yellow Diaries, a blog that documented her experiences in living with cancer. Ray had to go through a year of treatment and stem cell replacement before she was finally cancer-free. However, she mentioned that her cancer cannot be cured and only treated.

Tahira Kashyap Khurrana

The wife of actor Ayushmann Khurrana, famous author Tahira Kashyap was faced with Stage 0 Breast Cancer in 2018. She had taken to Instagram to document her fight against cancer to inspire other cancer patients and spread awareness about the disease. The director went through a mastectomy procedure to get rid of her cancer and has since been healthy.
CHICAGO - University of Chicago Medicine plans to build a $633 million, 500,000-square-foot cancer hospital in Hyde Park  in hopes of addressing health inequities on the South Side and attracting patients from across the region.

The massive center would include 128 beds for overnight patients, space for outpatient services and procedures, an urgent care for cancer patients and be a hub for cancer research, with clinical trials enrolling patients who live on the South Side and elsewhere. The hope is that patients would be able to get nearly all of their cancer care at the center rather than having to go to multiple locations for tests and treatments, said Dr. Kunle Odunsi, director of UChicago Medicines Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The additional 128 beds would also free up that same number of beds at the often-packed University of Chicago Medical Center, making room for more patients with other complex needs, he said. The hospital is often nearly full now, and was frequently near capacity even before COVID-19, he said. That means the hospital must now often turn down requests to have patients transferred to it from other strained area hospitals, said University of Chicago Medical Center President Thomas Jackiewicz, in a letter to the head of the state Health Facilities and Services Review Board about the project.

This will have a major impact in terms of our ability to take care of patients coming from our South Side community, Odunsi said. This kind of hospital provides a unique opportunity to not only meet the needs of cancer patients in the new hospital but also meet the needs of other noncancer patients as well.

It will be an opportunity for South Side residents to gain access to a world-class cancer hospital, he said.

UChicago Medicine said it submitted an application to the state Health Facilities and Services Review Board this week for permission to spend money on design and site planning for the center. If thats approved, it plans to submit another application in the fall to start construction.

Construction could begin in 2023, and the facility could open to patients in 2026. The free-standing facility is planned for vacant land owned by the university on East 57th Street, between South Maryland and South Drexel avenues.

Many hope that the new center will be a step toward addressing long-standing health inequities on the South Side of Chicago, where many Black Chicagoans live. Cancer death rates on the South Side are about twice the national average, Odunsi said. Between 2014 and 2018, South Side residents were 29% more likely to receive a cancer diagnosis than those who lived in other parts of the city, according to Jackiewiczs letter.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death for South Siders, after heart disease, according to UChicago Medicine. Its the leading cause of death in five neighborhoods: Calumet Heights, East Side, Kenwood, South Deering and Woodlawn.

Its believed those disparities are because of issues such as a lack of access to health care, racism, economic instability, and a lack of access to nutritious foods and opportunities for physical activity, among other things.

The health systems application to the state board said the disparities reflect a history of racial inequities and underinvestment  both of which have contributed to a fragmented healthcare delivery landscape with limited resources.

Over the past 10 years, there have been more than a dozen inpatient service or hospital closures on the South Side, and theres now a shortage of primary care and obstetrical providers in the area, according to the application.

South Side patients have faced many inequities for a long time, Odunsi said. The question is how can we correct some of these aberrations.

Its hoped that the center will give people who live on the South Side easier access to cancer prevention programs, screenings and early detection, as well as treatment. Now, about 56% of area patients leave the South Side for care, according to UChicago Medicine.

Odunsi also expects the new cancer center to attract patients from beyond the South Side.

We fully anticipate there will be things that can only happen at the University of Chicago Cancer Center and potentially could drive people from outside the region to come to this cancer hospital, Odunsi said.

But the cancer center plans to engage its South Side communities and conduct outreach to ensure South Side residents have access to the hospital, with Odunsi saying their care is a top priority.

Candace Henley, a cancer survivor and founder of The Blue Hat Foundation in Chicago, applauded the plan for the new cancer center in a news release, saying, The South Side is the epicenter of health care inequality in the city of Chicago and the health care community needs to begin listening to the experiences of South Side patients and investing in better care options for patients of color if we are going to improve health outcomes for Chicagos underprivileged communities. Henley is also a member of the UChicago Medicine Community Advisory Council.

University of Chicago Medical Center has faced criticism from community members in the past for its decadeslong lack of a Level I trauma center for treating traumatic injuries, such as from gunshots and vehicle crashes. It was a situation that forced many South Side victims of violence and crashes to travel to farther hospitals for care. After years of campaigning by community activists, the hospital opened a new Level I trauma program in 2018.

UChicago Medicine is now also part of the South Side Healthy Community Organization, which is made up of more than a dozen South Side hospitals, health centers and others working together to improve health care access and outcomes on the South Side. The organization was recently awarded $26 million in state grants, which it said it would use to improve access to care, including by adding 90 primary care and obstetrics providers.

In constructing the new cancer center, UChicago Medicine is part of a trend of hospitals and health systems building new facilities and expanding others in hopes of modernizing their spaces and better competing with other hospitals for patients.

U.S. News & World Report ranks hospitals by specialty, and most recently ranked Northwestern Memorial Hospital as the sixth best in the country for cancer, and University of Chicago Medical Center as the 21st, with Rush University Medical Center following at 42nd. Northwestern and UChicago Medicines cancer centers have been recognized as comprehensive cancer centers by the National Cancer Institute.

Rush University Medical Center has been constructing a large facility on Chicagos Near West Side that it hopes will become a destination center for cancer and neurological care.

In June 2020, the state Health Facilities and Services Review Board approved an application by Northwestern Memorial Hospital for a project to add 49 beds and construct a three-story connector between two of its buildings in Streeterville, partly to try to relieve crowding in its emergency department.

And in 2017, the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago moved into a new $550 million, 1.2 million-square-foot facility in Streeterville, changing its name to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. In making the move, the top-rated rehabilitation hospital boosted its number of beds and created spaces to encourage close work between researchers, doctors and patients.
A Colorado school district was forced to cancel classes after teachers called out sick to protest the new conservative school board

A Colorado school district was forced to cancel classes on Thursday after teachers called out sick.

The teachers are protesting the new conservative school board, a union spokesperson told Insider.

The district said absences had "impacted our ability to provide a safe and supervised learning environment for students."

A Colorado school district was forced to cancel classes on Thursday after teachers called out sick to protest decisions made by the district's conservative-majority school board.

The Douglas County School District said on its website that a "large number" of staff submitted absences for Thursday and all classes across the district's schools were canceled.

"We have reached the point where the number of absences has impacted our ability to provide a safe and supervised learning environment for students," the alert said.

A spokesperson for Douglas County Federation  a local affiliate union of the American Federation of Teachers  confirmed to Insider that Thursday's protests are a culmination of concerns about the school board from district employees, community members, and parents.

In November, four seats on Douglas County's school board were up for grabs in an election, and a quartet of conservative candidates raised hundreds of thousands of dollars more than their competition.

The four individuals  Mike Peterson, Becky Meyers, Christy Williams, and Kaylee Winegar  all now sit on the seven-person board.

The Douglas County Federation spokesperson told Insider that one particular grievance the union had with the new school board members was the decision made by the conservative-majority in late January to weaken the district's educational equity policy.

The spokesperson also said that two new conservative school board members tried to fire the district's superintendent Corey Wise, and they along with the two other new conservative members decided they would give Wise an ultimatum to either resign or be fired.

Story continues

The school board also struck down a COVID-19 mask mandate late last year, the spokesperson said.

Along with the protest from teachers, there is also a planned rally against the conservative-majority school boar on Thursday afternoon at the district's headquarters in Castle Rock, just south of Denver.

Douglas County's school board did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Fundraising for Douglas County's 2021 elections shattered contributions made during the district's 2017 elections.

In last year's elections, the quartet was supported by the conservative 1776 Project PAC, a national group that launched in May that says it's actively trying to stop critical race theory from being taught in classrooms.

All the Colorado school board candidates backed by the PAC swept their races in local elections in November.

The election in Douglas County came at the heels of a heated school board meeting that saw parents lash out against the board over COVID-19 safety policies and the supposed teaching of critical race theory.

It's a microcosm of a general trend, where school boards and districts have become battlegrounds for culture war topics.

Read the original article on Insider
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. API/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

A lone US hacker is claiming responsibility for crippling North Korea's internet in recent weeks.

The hacker was bent on revenge after being targeted by a North Korean cyberattack, Wired reported.

Some experts have said the outages may have been caused a distributed denial-of-service attack.

North Korea disappeared from the internet at least twice in the past month, with state-run websites becoming inaccessible in what some observers speculated was a distributed denial-of-service attack on the country's servers. In a report published Tuesday, a lone hacker bent on revenge told Wired that he was responsible for crippling the secretive country's internet.

The American hacker  who goes by the handle P4x  told Wired he was one of the victims of a cyberattack last year on Western security researchers carried out by North Korean spies. He said he was frustrated that he was a target and that the US appeared to have a lacking response.

He said the hackers tried to snatch hacking tools and information on software vulnerabilities but he was able to stop them before they could get anything worthwhile. Nonetheless, there was a feeling of resentment, he told Wired.

Related video: North Korea's new train-based missile system harder for enemies to track

"It felt like the right thing to do here," P4x told Wired, adding: "If they don't see we have teeth, it's just going to keep coming.

"I want them to understand that if you come at us, it means some of your infrastructure is going down for a while."

North Korea's mysterious internet outages appeared around the same time the country was conducting record-breaking illegal weapons testing as it fired missile after missile. The timing of these developments led some expert observers to suspect that a state actor, such as the US, might be targeting North Korea, but P4x said that was not the case.

Wired reported that P4x provided screen recordings demonstrating his responsibility for the attacks on North Korea's web servers. Insider has not reviewed these.

Story continues

While the hacker was open about claiming responsibility for the attacks, P4x declined to disclose the vulnerabilities in the North Korean system he said he found and exploited to single-handedly take down the entire country's internet on multiple occasions. He did say the attack was largely automated.

He told Wired it was "pretty interesting how easy it was to actually have some effect in there."

P4x also told Wired he was trying to recruit more "hacktivists" to join a dark website he launched earlier this week called the FUNK project  which stands for FU North Korea.

"You can make a difference as one person," the FUNK website reads, according to the report from Wired. "The goal is to perform proportional attacks and information-gathering in order to keep NK from hacking the western world completely unchecked."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Northern Ireland First Minister Paul Givan has announced his resignation from Stormonts powersharing Executive.

The move by the Lagan Valley MLA is part of the DUPs escalating protest strategy against Brexits Northern Ireland Protocol.

Mr Givan said the protocol, which has created trade barriers between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, had undermined a cornerstone of powersharing in the region  governance with the consent of both nationalists and unionists.

Today marks the end of what has been the privilege of my lifetime  to serve as the First Minister of Northern Ireland, said Mr Givan, who was appointed to the role last summer.

When I first entered the Assembly 12 years ago, I never expected to have the opportunity to lead the Government and serve the people of Northern Ireland as First Minister.

His announcement comes 24 hours after DUP Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots acted unilaterally to order a halt to agri-food checks required under the post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Civil servants have yet to implement the instruction and checks are continuing.

Mr Givans resignation, which comes into effect at midnight, will automatically remove Sinn Fein deputy First Minister Michelle ONeill from her job because, under Stormonts powersharing rules, one cannot hold office without the other.

Other Stormont ministers can remain in post but the Executive can no longer meet and is unable to take significant policy decisions.

Sinn Fein has denounced the move as an electoral stunt designed to consolidate DUP support in the face of recent poor opinion poll performances.

Party president Mary Lou McDonald branded the DUP tactics a disgrace and called for Mays already scheduled Assembly election to be brought forward.

The events in Northern Ireland unfolded as UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and European Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic met to take stock of negotiations aimed at reducing the red tape associated with the protocol. The pair will meet again in London next week to continue discussions.

In his resignation speech in a Belfast hotel, Mr Givan said: Our institutions are being tested once again. And the delicate balance created by the Belfast and St Andrews agreements has been impacted by the agreement made by the United Kingdom Government and the European Union which created the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The consent principle is a cornerstone of the Belfast Agreement and it is my earnest desire that all sections of the community will soon be able to give consent to the restoration of a fully functioning executive, through a resolution to the issues that have regrettably brought us to this point.

Paul Givan arrives at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast, ahead of his announcement (Peter Morrison/PA)

There was emotion in Mr Givans voice as he added: Most of all I want to thank my family, especially my wife Emma.

Its often those that we are close to in our families that feel the pressure, even more so than those of us in frontline politics.

It wouldnt have been possible without their support.

After Mr Givans announcement, DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson delivered a speech to senior party figures in a different room in the same hotel.

He said unionist concerns about the protocol had been disregarded for too long.

Now is the moment when we say enough, he said.

Sir Jeffrey added: If we are to move to the next stage of building a shared future, then humiliation of one side by the other is not the answer. We will not achieve reconciliation through retribution.

Therefore, now is the moment to repair our politics, reset relations and restore fairness for all.

Now is the moment to send the clear signal that we want Stormont free from the long shadows of the protocol  the Irish Sea border must go.

Sir Jeffrey later said he had told Ms Truss that January 31 had been his deadline for securing movement on protocol logjams.

He said trade checks on GB produce should only be applied to goods set for onward transportation into the Republic of Ireland.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast ahead of delivering a speech to party colleagues (Peter Morrison/PA)

Sir Jeffrey said the DUP had given the UK and EU space to find solutions but he warned that sufficient progress had not been made.

We wanted to be reasonable rather than reactionary, he said.

We wanted to be practical rather than pedantic. I want devolution to work and to be respected across all communities in Northern Ireland.

But for it to work, unionists as well as nationalists must be respected.

We want a devolved government that delivers for everyone in Northern Ireland and that can build on stable foundations.

These institutions only have value if they enjoy the confidence and support of the people they were established to serve.

They only have meaning if they are delivering fairly for all our people based on the principles of equality and mutual respect on which they were founded.

Its time to restore fairness.

Sir Jeffrey added: There comes a moment when we have to take tough decisions if we are to build for the future. Such a moment has arrived.

Despite the sometimes positive noises, the talks on the protocol have thus far failed to come to a conclusion  not because of a lack of time, but rather because minds do not seem to be focused on fixing our problems.

Without resolute action on our part these talks could drift on for many further months or years. That is bad for Northern Ireland.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald (Brian Lawless/PA)

Reacting to Mr Givans move, Sinn Fein leader Mrs McDonald called for an early Assembly poll.

I want to be clear, we cannot stagger on in the months ahead without a functioning executive. Sinn Fein will not facilitate this, she said.

So in the absence of a functioning executive, an early election must be called and the people must have their say.

This is one of those defining moments. We can do so much better than this chaotic theatre. Powersharing can work, but it can only work if parties involved are committed to it.

Good government can deliver, of that there is no doubt. And that is what we, and we believe the other parties, wants to see happening.

So if todays behaviour and decisions of the DUP show anything, it is again demonstrable evidence that we live in a time for real change, and this includes the prospect of constitutional change, as set out in the Good Friday Agreement.
Building modern, reliable public infrastructure

BURLINGTON, ON, Feb. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Public Services and Procurement Canada is committed to maintaining the integrity of its infrastructure to ensure the safety of Canadians.

Today, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, announced a contract worth $1.86M to AECOM Canada Ltd, located in Kitchener, Ontario, to develop the design for the new bridge deck at the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge in Burlington, Ontario.

Through this contract, AECOM will design and replace the lift span's bridge deck, restore the approach spans and widen the sidewalk areas to allow more space for pedestrians and cyclists to cross safely and also improve traffic flow.

These changes will improve the overall operations of the bridge, ensuring the safety of bridge users for years to come. This project will provide a boost to the local economy and extend and maximize the life of the bridge by approximately 50 years for both the deck and sidewalk, and around 30 years for the approaches.

PSPC plans on awarding a construction contract by late summer 2022, with construction anticipated to begin in winter 2023, and completed by summer/fall 2024.

Quote

"The Burlington Canal is an important route for both local and national transportation needs. These improvements to the Burlington Lift Bridge will help reduce gridlock, increase access for pedestrians and cyclists, and extend the lifespan of Bridge."

The Honourable Filomena Tassi

Minister of Public Services and Procurement

Quick facts

The Burlington Canal Lift Bridge is located on the western shore of Lake Ontario, on a site rich in history.

Since 1830, five different moveable bridges were previously located on this site.

The current bridge was opened in 1962 and carried two lanes of vehicular traffic across the canal. This structure was originally designed to carry train tracks for the Hamilton  Northwestern railway. The train tracks were removed in 1982 and the road way widened to four lanes.

The bridge spans the width of the Burlington Canal which was opened in 1826. Once a narrow cut, the canal now provides Burlington Bay (Hamilton Harbour) with navigable access to the Atlantic Ocean.

The bridge structure is a tower driven, vertical lift and moveable bridge. The lift span is 116 metres long, weighs 1,996 tons, and has a vertical lift of 33.5 metres.

Since its installation, the bridge has been operated in excess of 200,000 times, allowing the passage of over 400,000 vessels. Annually, the bridge will operate approximately 4,000 times, allowing approximately 6,500 vessels to pass through the canal. This also includes more than 1,000 large cargo-carrying vessels.

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View original content: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2022/03/c9349.html
The All India Tyres Federation on Thursday sought removal of on tyres and urged the government to lift import restrictions imposed after the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) order on domestic tyre manufacturers for indulging in price rigging and cartelisation.

In August 2018, the CCI had imposed a total fine of more than Rs 1,788 crore on Apollo Tyres, MRF, CEAT, Birla Tyres, JK Tyre & Industries and the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA). They were found to have violated Section 3 of the Competition Act during 2011-12. The Section prohibits anti-competitive agreements.

An appeal was filed against the CCI order before the Madras High Court and the same was dismissed on January 6, 2022.

In a letter to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, the Federation also sought an appointment to its delegation so that it explains the entire issue.

The CCI on Wednesday said the Supreme Court has dismissed a petition filed by .

"On February 2, 2022, the CCI had passed a final order dated May 31, 2018, against five ...and their association, Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA), for indulging in cartelisation," All India Tyre Dealers Federation President S P Singh said in the letter.

The tyre makers acted "in concert to increase the prices of cross-ply/ bias tyres variants sold by each of them in the replacement market and to limit and control production and supply in the market, thereby contravening (certain) provisions of the Competition Act, 2002", he said in the letter.

The CCI's August 2018 order had unequivocally found these five tyre manufacturers indulging in price rigging and cartelisation leading to stifling and exploiting retail tyre trade and a huge mass of consumers for trucks/ buses, LCVs, passenger vehicles and two-wheelers in the domestic market, the Federation stated in the letter.

Therefore, it added, the manufacturers do not have any right to enjoy protection from the government by way of and restriction on import of various categories of tyres and tubes, which is prevailing now in the market.

The Federation also said domestic tyre makers as a cartel have been imposing for more than the last 10 years indiscriminate, arbitrary and unfair tyre prices on the hapless domestic mass of tyre buyers in India.

"The All India Tyre Dealers Federation (AITDF) urges that the government should with immediate effect act in the larger interest of road transport and tyre rade to remove restrictions on import of tyres imposed on in June 2020," it said.

The Federation said the government should also direct the anti-dumping authority and the finance ministry as well as the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to duly intervene to expedite the justice required, the Federation said.

The case was initiated on the basis of a reference received from the corporate affairs ministry and that the reference was based on a representation made by the All India Tyre Dealers Federation (AITDF) to the ministry.

The tyre manufacturers had exchanged price-sensitive data among them through the platform of ATMA, and had taken collective decisions on the prices of tyres, as per CCI.

The watchdog, citing its order, said in the release that sharing such sensitive information made coordination easier among the tyre manufacturers.

It also asked them to cease and desist from indulging in unfair business practices.

(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.)
(Newser)  Update: A 5-year-old boy who was trapped in a well in northern Morocco for four days has died. Rescuers had pulled Rayan Oram, wrapped in a yellow blanket, out on Saturday night, the AP reports, while his parents waited in an ambulance. The crowd cheered as rescuers emerged from the well with the boy, per the BBC. But a short time later, the palace issued a statement saying King Mohammed VI had called Rayan's parents to offer his condolences. Our original story from Thursday follows:

A 5-year-old boy went with his father to repair a 100-foot-deep well in northern Morocco and ended up falling in, per AFP. The country's Civil Protection Directorate has been leading efforts to rescue the boy named Rayanwhom a smartphone camera showed to be alive and conscious, though with blood across his face from an apparent head injurysince Tuesday afternoon, the BBC reports. A crowd has gathered at the scene near Bab Berred, northern Chefchaouen province, while thousands of people have been watching rescue footage online.

"The problem of this rescue is that the hole diameter is very, very small," about 10 inches, Mohamed Yassin El Quahabi, of the Chefchaouen Association of Caving and Mountain Activities, told the BBC. El Quahabi, who's assisting with the rescue, said the gap narrows at a depth of about 90 feet, further complicating matters. Two attempts to lower a rescuer to the boy failed, per Gulf News. Government rep Mustapha Baitas said Thursday that the soil around the hole made it too dangerous to widen, so five bulldozers are digging next to the shaft, per AFP.

They've been able to reach a depth of 62 feet, per the BBC. "The child's rescue is approaching," Baitas said, per AFP. "Our hearts are with the family, and we are praying that he will back with them as soon as possible." A helicopter is reportedly prepared to rush the boy to a hospital once he's free. Food, water, and an oxygen mask have already been lowered into the shaft, as well as the smartphone on a rope. The resulting footage was shared widely on social media under an Arabic hashtag translating to #SaveRayan. "The heart of every Moroccan is with this angel," reads a Twitter comment. (Read more rescue stories.)
NASA revealed plans to euthanize the International Space Station by "de-orbiting" it to fall into the Pacific Ocean in January 2031. By then, the ISS will have maintained a continuous human presence in space for three decades. According to NASA, future low-Earth orbit destinations will be developed and operated by the private sector. The good ol' ISS will splash down in the South Pacific Oceanic Uninhabited Area, aka "Point Nemo," about 2,688 kilometers away from land. From CNN:

Named after the submarine sailor in Jules Verne's novel "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea," Point Nemo is the point in the ocean that is farthest from land and has been a watery grave for many other spacecraft. The area is approximately 3,000 miles off of New Zealand's eastern coast and 2,000 miles north of Antarctica and it's estimated that space-faring nations such as the US, Russia, Japan and European countries have sunk more than 263 pieces of space debris there since 1971.



The report said the ISS would perform thrusting maneuvers that would ensure "safe atmospheric entry."

From NASA:

The ISS will accomplish the de-orbit maneuvers by using the propulsion capabilities of the ISS and its

visiting vehicles. The overall de-orbit would require extra visiting vehicles beyond the regular cadence of

traffic to the ISS. Not all visiting vehicles can be used to assist in the de-orbit. NASA and its partners

have evaluated varying quantities of Russian Progress spacecraft and determined that three can

accomplish the de-orbit. Additionally, Northrop Grumman has been expanding the propulsion

capabilities of its Cygnus spacecraft, and NASA has been evaluating whether Cygnus could also be part

of the vehicle capability needed to the de-orbit the ISS.

We'll definitely need a bigger boat.
BEIRUT, Lebanon  One week after Islamic State fighters attacked a prison in northeastern Syria, where they have held out despite a heavy assault by a Kurdish-led militia backed by the United States, the terrorist organization published its version of what had gone down.

In its official magazine, it mocked how many times in its history its foes had declared the Islamic State to be defeated. Its surprise attack on the prison, it crowed, had made its enemies shout in frustration: They have returned again!

That description was not entirely wrong.

The battle for the prison, in the city of Hasaka, killed hundreds of people, drew in U.S. troops and offered a stark reminder that three years after the collapse of the Islamic States so-called caliphate, the groups ability to sow chaotic violence persists, experts said. On Saturday, about 60 ISIS fighters still controlled part of the prison.
A child reacts as he receives his Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 in Diepsloot Township near Johannesburg, Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021. Africa's top health official John Nkengasong on Thursday Feb. 3, 2022, is launching a campaign to enlist young people to encourage vaccinations, as just 11.3% of the continent's 1.3 billion people are vaccinated against COVID-19. Credit: AP Photo/Denis Farrell, File

Africa's top health official is launching a campaign to enlist young people to encourage vaccinations, as just 11.3% of the continent's 1.3 billion people are vaccinated against COVID-19.

Youths will be encouraged "to play an active role" in ramping up inoculations across the continent where the vaccination rate is far below other regions in the world, Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director John Nkengasong said Thursday.

Africa so far has 10.8 million confirmed infections and 240,000 deaths and vaccination efforts have been accelerating as vaccines doses are "becoming readily available" on the continent, Nkengasong said. In the last four weeks, Africa has seen an average 10% decrease in new cases, he said.

Of the 597 million doses of vaccines that Africa has so far received, 64% have been administered, he said.

The campaign tagged "African Youths for COVID-19 vaccination: Initiative for Saving Lives, Saving Livelihoods" "will be an important initiative" as the median age of Africa's population at 19.5 years, Nkengasong said.

"At least 70% of the population are less than 30, so we really have to engage the youths to play an active role in scaling up the vaccination in terms of mobilizing their peers and reaching out," he said.

A young woman reacts as she receives her Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 in Diepsloot Township near Johannesburg, Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021. Africa's top health official John Nkengasong on Thursday Feb. 3, 2022, is launching a campaign to enlist young people to encourage vaccinations, as just 11.3% of the continent's 1.3 billion people are vaccinated against COVID-19. Credit: AP Photo/Denis Farrell, File

Another effort will seek to promote self-testing "so that the communities and population take ownership of their own testing and take the appropriate measures," he said.

"If they know their status, they can take appropriate measures to stay home, protect themselves, protect their loved ones and protect their communities," Nkengasong said. Rapid tests that can be done at home are not widely available or free in most of Africa's 54 countries. If they are available they are often much too costly for the majority of Africans.

Only 94 million tests1.1 million in the last weekhave so far been conducted across Africa and the test positivity rate remains relatively high at 11.4%, according to official statistics.

At another briefing on Thursday, the World Health Organization Africa regional director Matshidiso Moeti urged people to comply with public health measures in their respective countries.

In trying to "reach balance," countries are now "working on normalizing the response while managing the risk," Moeti said. South Africa, in particular, has scrapped isolation for people who test positive for the virus but have no symptoms.

 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
The chairman of the West African bloc ECOWAS said a surge of coups since a military government took power in Mali in 2020 must be contained before it devastates the whole region.

At the opening of a second ECOWAS summit on dealing with the January coup in Burkina Faso, chairman and president of Ghana Nana Akufo-Addo said the resurgence of coups in West Africa is worrying and must be stopped.

"It's with a heavy heart that I welcome all of you today back to Accra after our virtual meeting last week," Akufo-Addo said. "Your presence here is a strong indication of your willingness to find a sustainable solution to the resurgence of the cancer in our region. Let us address this dangerous trend collectively and decisively before it devastates the whole region."

West Africa in the past year has seen a series of coups and attempted coups in Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau.

The Economic Community of West African States suspended Burkina Faso, Guinea and Mali from the 15-member bloc and imposed sanctions on Guinea and Mali after military takeovers. The African Union also suspended the three countries.

But analysts question if the sanctions are effective when the coups are being driven by popular concerns about security and the fight against Islamist militant groups linked to Islamic State and al-Qaida.

Dean of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College Vladimir Antwi-Danso told VOA that ECOWAS must be more proactive in helping member-states deal with insecurity.

"The 21st century is a century of terrorism," he said. "It's festering. And that is what we should be thinking about rather than the AU and ECOWAS being seen condemning coups and closing borders. What are we talking about? Let's be serious."

Former director of the U.N. Economic Commission for Africa Takyiwaa Manuh was more critical of the African groups of nations. Speaking on Ghana's Asaase Radio, he said ECOWAS and the AU had failed to condemn elected leaders who change the law to extend their rule.

"When somebody changes the rules and runs for a third term we didn't hear ECOWAS condemning that. Why did ECOWAS not condemn that? Why did the Africa Union not condemn that? Right now, everybody is laughing, when ECOWAS imposes sanctions is like 'There you go again, where were you when this was happening?' And what it does is that it eats into the credibility of ECOWAS and the African Union," Manuh said.

Regardless of the causes behind the coups, analysts say the military takeovers will scare investors away from West Africa.

Daniel Amateye Anim, an economist at the Ghana-based Policy Initiative for Economic Development, told VOA the culture of coups could have dire economic consequences if foreign direct investments, or FDIs, dry up.

"Investors may be deterred from bringing in investment into the region because the region will be considered no longer safe for investors," he said. "Those who are already on the ground may be thinking of redirecting their investment into other economies where those places could be considered safe. And once FDIs are not coming into the equation what it means is that it may affect the overall GDP growth of the economies in the sub-region."

Meanwhile, West African leaders must decide how best to discourage more coups and get militaries to return to the barracks while countries are dealing with growing insecurity.


Pete Wicks has admitted he struggled to let go of judgement from others for being single and over the age of 30.

Speaking on the Vicky Pattison: The Secret To podcast, TOWIE star Pete, 33, said 'people just assume no one wants you, or that its a red flag' not to be in a relationship after the age of 29.

Former I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! winner Vicky, 34, who is now coupled-up with boyfriend Ercan Ramadan, said: 'When I left the jungle, I remember I couldnt be seen with any fella

Rocky road to love: Pete Wicks, 33, has admitted he struggled to let go of judgement from others for being single and over the age of 30

'I was frustrated I couldnt be a single woman, who was really focused on her career and keen to make a name for herself without having a significant other. Do you ever feel like that?'

Pete responded: 'Yes, 100% especially in 30s and people are like youre 30 whats wrong with you?" People just assume no one wants you, or that its a red flag.

'Im going to get married one day, I believe in soulmates, but Im not going to be in a relationship if I dont see it as the person, Im going to spend the rest of my life with.'

Happy within herself: Former I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! winner Vicky, 34, says she wanted to focus on her career after she turned 30 rather than rushing into a relationship

Happy couple: Vicky is now loved-up with boyfriend Ercan Ramadan who briefly appeared on The Only Way Is Essex

While Pete may be happy waiting for the perfect partner, he allegedly sent Married At First Sight Australia star Jessika Power a message asking her out on a date.

Reality star Jessika 30, gushed of Pete: 'He is very good looking! He actually messaged me and he's like, ''Baby, let's go dating''. And I was like, ''Yeah!'''

She added when speaking to The Sun: 'He holds himself well, but he's also very kind and he's very aware of young women's feelings and emotions.'

Flirty: It comes after Jessika Power, 30, gushed over Pete in an interview and even revealed that he sent her a flirtatious message asking her out (pictured together in November)

Jessika and Pete first met last year when they both filmed Celebs Go Dating.

The TOWIE star was even seen fondly greeting the Down Under stunner with a kiss at Sainsy's Pie And Mash Shop on Brentood High Street as they got to work on shooting.

A month prior, Jessika told Closer magazine: 'I think Pete is cute! We met when I did his podcast recently. We follow each other on Instagram and he and I have a bit of flirty banter

Love life: Pete has previously been in relationships with his TOWIE co-stars Chloe Sims and Megan McKenna (pictured with Chloe, L, in 2019 and Megan, R, in 2017)

'I would love to move to the UK and I have had a few of the British reality boys flying into my DMs. Scotty T from Geordie Shore and I had a thing a little while ago [while he was in Australia in 2019]...

'It came out in the media recently and he messaged me and I was like, "Why are you still bringing this up, it was like two years ago, babe!"

'I am definitely happier in a relationship but, since MAFS, I'm struggling to find somebody who can take on my world.'

Pete's previous famous relationships include Megan McKenna, they started dated in 2016 but explosively split in 2017 with their rocky romance documented on TOWIE.

Way back when: Pete and Megan started dating in 2016 but explosively split in 2017 with their rocky romance documented on TOWIE

The pair - who had a famously fiery relationship - called it quits when Megan discovered that he had been sexting his ex Jacqui Ryland.

The star-crossed lovers briefly got back together while Megan was pursuing her musical ambitions in Nashville, but it sadly wasn't meant to be.

However, the pair manged to quash any animosity after they both signed up to Celebs Go Dating in 2019.

Pete then found love with Shelby Tribble but their whirlwind romance ended in September 2019.

Drama: Pete had secretly been seeing his co-star and close friend Chloe for two years with the dramatic revelation played out on TOWIE

Shelby and Pete split after she discovered he had sent 'disgusting' messages to other girls and even 'used her' before their explosive break-up.

Discussing their separation on TOWIE at the time, she said: 'I've not heard from him since the festival. That night, I heard he went to a strip club.'

An upset Shelby added: 'I just feel like he's used me. Those messages are disgusting. I dont care if he says we werent official. Weve been seeing each other for five months, weve been inseparable for five months.'

Also during the episode, Pete revealed to Chloe Sims that there was 'something' missing between him and Shelby, despite her being the type of woman he'd like to settle down with.

More recently, it was revealed that Pete had secretly been seeing his co-star and close friend Chloe Sims for two years with the dramatic revelation played out on TOWIE.

Vicky Pattison: The Secret To podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Cloudy with light rain this morning. High around 60F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Some passing clouds. Low 52F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Cherokee Nation prosecutors charge two men with more than 60 counts of wildlife crimes
A former prison officer who had personal relationships with two inmates has let the world know what she's looking for in a man, including her possible lover's circumcision status.

Melissa Goodwin, 26, was convicted in August last year of engaging in an intimate relationship with teenage inmate, Corey London.

Goodwin later pleaded guilty to a relationship with London and was sentenced to a 12 month community corrections order and 100 hours' community service.

At the time of her arrest, Goodwin was in a relationship with another former inmate, Caleb Valeri, an associate of the Rebels outlaw motorcycle gang.

Melissa Goodwin was convicted in August last year of engaging in an intimate relationship with teenage inmate, Corey London

Goodwin shared an Instagram story where she said she would remain single until she found a man who could meet her list of requirements

In an Instagram story, Goodwin provided a list of what she requires in a man, including a specific physical feature.

'I'll be single until a 6ft, over 28 man, with no foreskin, good communication, doesn't have snapchat, doesn't send me messages saying "wyd", has a job, a car and a license, invites me out on a date instead of saying come over, goes to the gym, isn't a bad boy, has a good relationship with his mum, walks into my life. Xx

'Watch the little insecure boys skip this post or unfollow me.'

Goodwin's account reveals she has dramatically altered her look, her hair dyed dark brunette and having expanded her distinctive neck tattoo.

She now works as 'fitness trainer' at a western Sydney gym and many of Goodwin's Insta stories feature her working out.

Goodwin's Instagram account reveals she has dramatically altered her look since her court appearance last year, dyeing her hair dark brunette and working as a fitness trainer

The ex-prison officer was in bed with former inmate Valeri at her parents' house in May 2020 when police stormed the home at about 7.30am to arrest her after London had alleged they'd engaged in fellatio inside the prison.

Goodwin pleaded guilty to having a personal relationship with London, but insisted it was a 'pen pal' dynamic and that they were never physically intimate.

In 2020 police had accused Goodwin of repeatedly performing oral sex on London, 21, at Silverwater's Metropolitan Remand Centre.

Detectives claimed the trysts occurred in a jail storeroom five times in as many months, between December 2019 and April 2020 - however prosecutors were never able to prove this in court and related charges were withdrawn.

London refused to testify in the case after he was bashed on May 14 at the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre in Kempsey.

London was then charged with contempt of court, which carried a sentence of 28 days imprisonment.

Goodwin pictured in her NSW Corrective Services uniform during her days as a prison officer

In an interview with Kyle and Jackie O in September last year, Goodwin said the relationship with Valeri had started when he contacted her on Instagram after he'd left prison.

'My understanding was that he was in love with me, he was my boyfriend, we were together,' she told the program. But the relationship was not to last.

'Looking back on it now, I'm a complete idiot.'

Goodwin pictured together with former inmate Caleb Valeri, who she joked was 'seeing about 7,500 girls' at the same time' on the Kyle and Jackie O show

Goodwin sported a fresh neck tattoo when she appeared in court to admit to conducting a relationship with an inmate

Police had alleged Goodwin had trysts with Corey London (pictured) in a jail storeroom five times in as many months, between December 2019 and April 2020

Goodwin admitted she did not inform NSW Corrective Services about the relationship because she wasn't sure it was a long-term relationship.

She later discovered Valeri had been sharing explicit photos of Goodwin to his social media pages, some of which while she was in uniform.

'The captions were things like, ''I'm literally f**king the system'', referring to me,' she claimed.

She also downplayed her relationship with London in the interview, saying she had only been giving him 'life advice'.

'I was trying to help and my personality can be seen as flirtatious, I can be overly nice but that's just me. I'm not like that with just the inmates, I'm like that with everyone,' she said.

Goodwin also conceded her flirtatious personality perhaps made her unsuitable for the prison officer role and said she was dealing with the fall-out from her conviction.

'This did a lot of damage to my mental health... I still get messages about it to this day, I copped a lot of abuse.'
During his annual encounter with the Inspectorate of Public Security at the Vatican on Thursday, Pope Francis expresses his appreciation to the Italian police for their service in protecting the dignity and safety of pilgrims and visitors.

By Robin Gomes

Pope Francis on Thursday thanked Italys state police who maintain law and order in St. Peters Square and around the Vatican, saying their difficult yet precious service helps many pilgrims welcome the Lord.

The Pope made the remarks to the officials and representatives of the Inspectorate of Public Security at the Vatican, whom he traditionally meets at the start of the new year.

Service during the pandemic

Welcoming them along with their families, the Holy Father expressed his esteem and appreciation that during the pandemic, they have been able to modulate their work well, combining the health protocols, the rules of public order and the needs of pilgrims.

I would like to encourage you, so that your service, sometimes difficult, is always supported by its fundamental motivation: to take care of people, protecting the dignity and safety of each one.

The Pope noted that it was also due to their professionalism that life around these sacred places and Vatican City took place with serenity.

Night and day, your vigilance protects the people who go to pray in the Basilica and who come to meet me," he said. "Your punctual activity also facilitates the spiritual and religious events held in St. Peter's Square, as well as the visits of tourists.

While expressing his gratitude to the Inspectorate, Pope Francis also encouraged the police so that their precious service, which at times is difficult, is always supported by the fundamental motivation to take care of the people, protecting each ones dignity and safety.

Regarding this an important and delicate task, he said they carry it out with diligence and solicitude, striving, even in the most complex situations, to be patient and available.

The Italian police guarantee and coordinate all armed escort for the Pope when he leaves Vatican City.

The Holy Father commended their assiduous collaboration on the occasion of his trips to Rome or his pastoral visits to Italy. Their discreet yet effective presence, he said, is made even more profitable by the collaboration with the Vatican Gendarmerie [Vatican Police].

Pope Francis with the police of the Inspectorate of Public Security at the Vatican

Helping people encounter the Lord

The Holy Father insisted that the person always be at the centre of their service. "Perhaps someone comes with a request, problem or a need which, at times, is not fair and a little heavy," he said, thanking them for their patience and for treating people as they are in life. "That's how God treats us, he said.

Recalling the feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple, the previous day, Wednesday, Pope Francis said it is also called the "feast of encounter".

He explained the Gospel episode saying it is the meeting of Mary and Joseph, young newlyweds who have just become parents, with two elderly people, Simeon and Anna. Different generations and stories meet, and Jesus is at the centre. With their work, the Pope said, the police also allow many encounters to take place in the Vatican where the Lord is at the centre.

Your service allows Jesus to still be welcomed by so many people.

Nearly 77 years of service

The Inspectorate of Public Security at the Vatican is an outcome of the Lateran Pacts of 1929 between the Vatican and the Italian government, which formally recognized the Vatican's independence.

The Inspectorate was born in March 1945 as a Special Office of St. Peters Police Station. In June 1954, it changed its name to the General Inspectorate of Police Station at the Vatican, and since March 2001, it has come to be known as the Inspectorate of Public Security at the Vatican.

Since the Vatican is surrounded by Italian territory, the agreement Lateran Pacts entrust the Italian police with the Popes security when he leaves Vatican City. The Italian police guarantee and coordinate all armed escort for the Pope, some top Vatican officials and important heads of state every time they leave or head to the Vatican.

Since 1992, the Inspectorate has been dealing with the residence permits of foreign religious and lay people who reside in Rome for religious, study or work reasons. It works in collaboration with Italys immigration office in Rome

Two other separate security entities also cooperate to ensure security to the Pope and the Vatican  the famed Swiss Guards and the Vatican Gendarmerie, which is the Vaticans own police force.
Her trademark coiffure is a blonde bob.

But Millie Court left the jaws of her 1.9million Instagram followers dropping on Wednesday as she took to the platform to show off her dramatic hair transformation.

The Love Island winner, 25, channelled the 70s with a chic curtain fringe and volumised her locks with half a head of 14 inch Gold Fever extensions.

Wow: Millie Court took to Instagram on Wednesday with her new 70s-inspired curtain fringe - as she showed off dramatic hair transformation with her fans

The bombshell slipped into a revealing Jacquemus top and white bottoms, applying a sultry face of makeup for the new hair debut.

She penned the gorgeous snaps: 'New hair, new knit'.

Celebrity hairdresser Hadley Yates spoke of his decision-making for the latest look.

Transformation: The Love Island winner, 25, channelled the 70s with a chic curtain fringe and volumised her locks with half a head of 14 inch Gold Fever extensions.

'We wanted to go for something a bit more chic and softer on Millies frame, this look is definitely more sophisticated and fashionable for her which compliments her latest ventures into the fashion world.

'Making sure to keep the look as natural as possible we used half a head of 14 inch Gold Fever extensions to added a little more length but mainly to add more volume to her naturally fine hair.

'Reworking her existing straight fringe we feathered into it to create the iconic 70s curtain fringe which is seeing a huge comeback,' he said.

Beuaty: The reality star's trademark coiffure is a blonde bob

Decision making: 'We wanted to go for something a bit more chic and softer on Millies frame, this look is definitely more sophisticated and fashionable for her' said celebrity hairdresser Hadley Yates

Tropical dreams: Last month, Essex-born Millie shared some pictures from her Maldives getaway with Liam Reardon, 22, after the pair landed back in the UK

Last month, Essex-born Millie shared some pictures from her Maldives getaway with Liam Reardon, 22, after the pair landed back in the UK.

Millie looked sensational in the snaps as she showed off her taut abs while wearing a pastel blue tube top and matching sarong.

She showed off her long slender leg through a front split in her garment, displaying a healthy tan after relaxing in the sun.

The reality star's naked arms and shoulders were left exposed to the warm evening air as she stood close to a hunky Liam.

Former bricklayer Liam, who triumphed on last year's Love Island alongside girlfriend Millie, looked dashing in a green and white checked shirt.
Former Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke. Antonio Perez-Pool/Getty Images

The former Chicago police officer who was convicted of killing Laquan McDonald was released early from prison.

Jason Van Dyke, who is white, was convicted in 2018 for the shooting death of McDonald, 17.

Van Dyke was released after serving less than half of his nearly seven-year sentence.

The former Chicago police officer who was convicted of killing Laquan McDonald, a Black teen, in 2014 was released from prison Thursday after serving less than half of his nearly seven-year sentence.

A spokeswoman for Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker confirmed the early release of ex-cop Jason Van Dyke to Insider without providing further details.

Van Dyke, who is white, was convicted in 2018 of second-degree murder and 16 counts of aggravated battery in the October 20, 2014 shooting death of 17-year-old McDonald.

The former cop was released from prison after about three years behind bars for good behavior.

"In Illinois, individuals who are sentenced to prison are eligible for, by law, statutory good time," Joe McMahon, the former special prosecutor who led the state conviction of Van Dyke, told CNN.

McDonald was carrying a knife when Van Dyke shot the teen 16 times as he walked away from police. The killing sparked protests over police misconduct, with demonstrators using "16 shots and a cover-up" as a rallying cry.

Van Dyke was sentenced in 2019 to 6 years and 9 months in prison for the murder.

"When I think back what my reaction was in 2019 when this sentence was handed down, [it] was wow ... He's going to be out fairly quick," McMahon, who had asked for Van Dyke to serve an 18 to 20-year sentence, told CNN.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot released a statement on Thursday, saying that she knows some Chicagoans "remain disheartened and angry" about Van Dyke's lenient sentence.

"As I said at the time, while the jury reached the correct guilty verdict, the judge's decision to sentence Van Dyke to only 81 months was and remains a supreme disappointment," she said.

Story continues

Lightfoot added, "I understand why this continues to feel like a miscarriage of justice, especially when many Black and brown men get sentenced to so much more prison time for having committed far lesser crimes."

"While I know this moment is disappointing," Lightfoot said, "It should not prevent us from seeing the significant progress Van Dyke's prosecution and conviction represent."

Van Dyke was the first Chicago officer in more than half a century to be convicted of murder for an on-duty killing.

Lightfoot said that the prosecution of Van Dyke "led to historic reforms, including comprehensive legislation that created the first-ever community police oversight body in Chicago."

Read the original article on Insider
DAKOTA CITY -- A Sioux City man was sentenced Tuesday to up to five years in prison for three drive-by shootings in South Sioux City.

Jose Hamman, 21, pleaded no contest in Dakota County District Court to charges of conspiracy and attempted first-degree assault for two March 14 shootings in which the same family was targeted. Hamman was a passenger in a vehicle that pulled alongside a couple and their 6-year-old child at 219 Seventh Ave. and fired one shot before his gun jammed. The couple drove home and were entering their house when Hamman pulled up and fired three to five shots at them before driving away.

Hamman also pleaded no contest to possession of a weapon by a prohibited person in connection with a March 9 shooting in which he fired shots from the passenger side of a Jeep while following another vehicle in the 500 block of Eighth Avenue.

No one was hurt in any of the shootings, which police said resulted from an ongoing feud.

District Judge Bryan Meismer sentenced Hamman to four to five years in prison, and he must serve a mandatory minimum of three years. He was credited with 322 days he's spent in custody since his arrest.

Two counts of use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, terroristic threats and conspiracy and single counts of possession of a weapon by a prohibited person, first-degree attempted assault and child abuse were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Hamman's probation from a previous conviction also was revoked and he was sentenced to 180 days in jail, to be served at the same time as his prison sentence.

The driver during the March 9 shooting, Miguel Ceron, 25, of South Sioux City, was sentenced in October to 24-36 months in prison after pleading guilty to aiding and abetting.
The Supreme Court has been told that a total of 4,984 criminal cases against former and sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) are pending before various sessions and magistrate courts across the country, an increase of 862 such cases in the last three years. "Despite a series of directions by this court and continuous monitoring, as many as 4,984 cases are pending out of which 1,899 cases are more than five years old. It may be noted that the total number of cases pending as on December 2018 were 4,110 and as on October 2020 were 4,859. Even after disposal of 2,775 cases after December 4, 2018, the cases against MPs/MLAs have increased from 4,122 to 4,984," stated the report submitted by amicus curiae and senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, assisting the court in the case. The report was furnished in a petition filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay in a 2016 case seeking the establishment of special courts to try criminal cases against law makers and to debar convicted persons from the legislature and the executive. The report said out of the 4,984 cases, 3,322 are magisterial cases while 1,651 are sessions cases. It said 1,899 of such pending cases are more than five years old while 1,475 such cases have been pending for a period between two and five years. It said more and more persons with criminal antecedents are occupying seats in Parliament and the state assemblies and it is of utmost necessity that urgent and stringent steps are taken for expeditious disposal of pending criminal cases. (ANI)
Lead researcher Matthew Miller says children and adults are fundamentally different in their immune responses to influenza virus. Credit: JD Howell/McMaster University

Researchers at McMaster University have found that children who receive years of season-specific flu vaccines develop antibodies that also provide broader protection against new strains, including those capable of causing pandemics.

The same ability does not exist in adults.

The findings, reported today in the journal Cell Reports Medicine, could inform the design of a universal influenza virus vaccine for children, who are especially vulnerable to serious complications from flu, such as pneumonia, dehydration and, in rare cases, death.

"Little is known about how seasonal flu vaccination impacts the immune responses in children, who are a major source of flu transmission and a very high-risk group," explains Matthew Miller, lead author of the study and Associate Professor at the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Diseases Research. "Understanding how seasonal vaccination and different vaccine formulations shape childhood immunity is critical for effective prevention."

Children and adults are fundamentally different in their immune responses to influenza virus, explains Miller, whose lab is part of McMaster's Global Nexus for Pandemics and Biological Threats. Unlike small children, most adults have been infected with and vaccinated against flu many times throughout their lives.

"When we give adults vaccines, they make a very specific immune response against seasonal strains," says Miller. "Adults simply don't generate immune responses to seasonal flu vaccines capable of protecting them from pandemic viruses like children can."

The researchers spent three years studying immune responses in children between the ages of 6 months and 17 years. They found that as the children grew older, they became less capable of producing broadly protective antibodies, because of their repeated exposure to influenza, through infection or vaccination.

While COVID-19 related measures such as distancing and masking have also resulted in lower rates of influenza, Miller warns the flu will return, possibly in dangerous forms.

Influenza has caused five pandemics in the last 100 years. The Spanish Flu of 1918-19 killed roughly 50 million people worldwide at a time when the global population was about 1.8 billionless than a quarter what it is today.

For the study, researchers also compared two forms of vaccine: the conventional flu shot and a nasal spray vaccine that works in the upper respiratory tract, where infection first takes hold.

Both worked equally well at generating broadly protective antibodies, which is welcome news for parents seeking a painless alternative to needles.

"This is an important finding because it means we have flexibility in terms of the type of vaccines we can use to make a universal vaccine for children. We now know that children's immune systems are much more flexible than adults' when it comes to being able to teach them how to make these broadly protective responses," says Miller.

Explore further Intranasal flu vaccine with nanoparticles offers robust protection, researchers find

More information: Inactivated and live-attenuated seasonal influenza vaccines boost broadly neutralizing antibodies in children, Cell Reports Medicine, DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100509 Journal information: Cell Reports Medicine Inactivated and live-attenuated seasonal influenza vaccines boost broadly neutralizing antibodies in children,
Almost 200 examples of human spines threaded onto reed posts have been discovered in Peru, revealing a unique way of treating the dead that has never previously been documented in the region, according to a new study.

An international team of researchers working in the Chincha Valley, on Peru's southern coast, found the majority of the "vertebrae-on-posts" in large Indigenous graves known as "chullpas," which date back hundreds of years to around the time that European colonizers were present in the South American country.

Of the 192 spines found on posts in the region, archaeologists found that, in almost every case, they were made from the remains of a single individual, according to the study published Tuesday in the archaeology journal Antiquity.

It appears that adults and juveniles in the Indigenous community were the ones chosen for this unique practice. According to researchers, the "vertebrae-on-posts" are thought to have been created between 1450 and 1650 as the Inca rule came to an end and European colonization became widespread and dominant in the region.

Jacob L. Bongers, lead author of the study, said this particular period was "turbulent" in the history of the Chincha Valley as "epidemics and famines decimated local people."

Before the arrival of the Europeans, the Chincha Valley had been home to the Chincha Kingdom from 1000 to 1400 and had even established an alliance with the powerful Inca Empire. But as European colonizers swept into the region, the population was decimated as it declined from more than 30,000 heads of household in 1533 to just 979 by 1583.

Bongers, a senior research associate in archaeology at the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom, has also documented the looting of hundreds of graves in the region in previous research.

"Looting of indigenous graves was widespread across the Chincha Valley in the colonial period. Looting was primarily intended to remove grave goods made of gold and silver and would have gone hand in hand with European efforts to eradicate indigenous religious practices and funerary customs," Bongers said in a news release.

Analysis of the spines on the posts suggests that they might have been created to repair the damage done to the dead by looting, the study said. Radiocarbon dating conducted by the research team shows the threading of the spine onto the reed posts occurred after the initial burial of the bodies.

"These 'vertebrae-on-posts' were likely made to reconstruct the dead in response to grave looting," Bongers said. "Our findings suggest that vertebrae-on-posts represent a direct, ritualized, and indigenous response to European colonialism."

For many Indigenous groups in the Chincha Valley, bodily integrity after death was of high importance. According to the study, the Indigenous peoples of the region were involved in unique treatments of the dead. The nearby Chinchorro people developed the first known techniques for artificial mummification, millennia before ancient Egyptians practiced this funerary rite.

When mummies in the mountainous Andes area were destroyed by European colonizers, Indigenous groups salvaged what they could of the decimated remains to make new ritual objects.

The spines on the posts found in the Chincha Valley may represent a similar attempt to reconstruct the damaged dead and bodily integrity after looting.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

The UN-backed global Medicines Patent Pool on Thursday signed a 39-million-euro ($45 million) grant with South African biotech firm Afrigen to fund work on new mRNA COVID jabs.

Cape Town-based Afrigen Biologics and Vaccines is leading a pilot project, backed by the World Health Organization and the COVAX initiative, to tweak Moderna's shot.

The goal is to make an mRNA vaccine that can be kept at warmer temperatures, making them easier to store in low- and middle-income settings. The original jab requires expensive -25C to -15C refrigeration.

The project's first batches of mRNA vaccines have already been produced, according to a statement.

Charles Gore, MPP's executive director said in a statement that his organisation was "delighted to support Afrigen and its African partners to greatly expand local manufacturing capacity and reduce today's gross inequity".

The grant will cover the technology transfer hub's work for five years, through 2026.

The French government funds the MPP's activities linked to the hub.

"We will keep supporting this project... it's a very important one for the world and for Africa," the French ambassador to Pretoria, Aurelien Lechevallier said after touring the lab.

The MPP is an international organisation that supports development of medicines for low- and middle-income countries.

Set up in July, the tech transfer hub will train other countries and hand out production licences to poor nations left out in the race for the life-saving shots.

"Its aim is to allow for greater and more diversified vaccine manufacturing capability, strengthen African regional health security and respond more equitably" to the current and future pandemics, said a statement.

Africa is the least vaccinated continent in the world.

More than a year after the world's first COVID shot was administered and two years into the pandemic itself, just 11.3 percent of Africans have been fully immunised.

The problem has exposed Africa's huge dependence on imported vaccines and its tech weakness compared with Europe, China, and the United States.

To date only one percent of the vaccines used in Africa are produced on the continent.

Other players involved in the Cape Town hub which was set up in July are Biologicals and Vaccines Institute of Southern Africa (Biovac), the South African Medical Research Council, and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Explore further Africa sets sights on innovative mRNA jab to help meet vaccine gap

 2022 AFP
(Newser)  A driver who says he ran down a man with his car in an attempt to stop a fatal stabbing in London has been cleared of wrongdoing after being initially held by police. The unidentified 26-year-old told police he struck the man after seeing him stab a woman, later found to be the assailant's ex-wife, in broad daylight. Yasmin Chkaifi, 43, died of multiple stab wounds on Jan. 24, while Leon McCaskie, in his late 30s or early 40s, died of injuries as a result of being struck. The driver was detained on suspicion of murder, with his lawyer saying he was being "treated like a criminal," per the Evening Standard.

"Having reviewed the CCTV evidence and taken statements of numerous members of the public and attending officers, as well as reviewing the legal position regarding self-defense and defense of another, a decision has been taken that the driver of the car  will face no further police action," Detective Chief Inspector Neil Rawlinson said in a statement. "He is considered a vital witness to our investigation and will be offered support from professionals to help him come to terms with the terrifying situation he was confronted with." The driver said that he was "grateful" police had "taken this sensible course of action" and that he would continue to help them with their investigation.

"I hope that in my actions a message has been sent to society: should you see an evil it is a duty upon you to stop it with your hands," or at least to speak out, he said, thanking "the British public who supported me so vocally." Thousands of people signed a petition in support of his actions, while members of Chfaiki's family reportedly called him a hero, per the Evening Standard. At a Tuesday court hearing, Rawlinson said the couple had split years ago. "There were allegations of domestic abuse, and a stalking prevention order had been put in place against Leon," he added. An arrest warrant was issued for McCaskie, who also used the name McCaskre, on Jan. 4 after he failed to appear in court on accusations that he breached the order. (Read more murder stories.)
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

As the COVID-19 global epidemic persists, misinformation continues to circulate widely. Journalists and public health officials continue to struggle to debunk these false and misleading claims, an especially challenging task in the U.S. where COVID-19 has become a highly polarizing issue. Are these efforts successful? According to a new study published in Nature Human Behaviour, fact checks can successfully reduce misperceptions about COVID-19 immediately after people read them but do not have lasting effects over time.

"Our results suggest that effectively addressing misbeliefs about COVID-19 will require repeatedly debunking false claims about the coronavirus. Otherwise, people will tend to revert back toward the level of belief that they had before," says co-author Brendan Nyhan, the James O. Freedman Presidential Professor in the department of government at Dartmouth.

During the study, respondents from the U.S., Great Britain and Canada were asked to rate the perceived accuracy of four claims on COVID-19 that have been debunked by scientific and public health authorities: that the Chinese government created the coronavirus as a bioweapon; that a group funded by Bill Gates patented the coronavirus; that antibiotics are effective in preventing and treating COVID-19; and that the medication hydroxychloroquine is proven to cure or prevent COVID-19.

The research team then compared belief in the claims between respondents who were shown the fact checks and those who weren't.

Regardless of when the surveys were administered, the results were the same: misperceptions about COVID-19 immediately decreased in all three countries immediately after the fact check was shown to them. Moreover, "the fact checks were most effective among people who are more vulnerable to misperceptions of COVID-19 at baseline," says Nyhan, including supporters of conservative leaders, those with high conspiracy predispositions, and those with low trust in health institutions.

However, these effects did not persist over time in follow-up surveys conducted in the U.S. and Great Britain.

"By comparing U.S. data on the effects of COVID-19 fact checks to that of Great Britain and Canada, we found that our results are parallel across all three countries, which suggests that the effects are not an artifact of polarization over COVID-19 in the U.S.," says co-author Jason Reifler, a professor of politics at University of Exeter and long-time collaborator with Nyhan.

The study is the first to estimate the effects of fact checks on COVID-19 misperceptions over time and across countries. The results provide evidence that COVID-19 fact checks can be effective but that frequent exposure is necessary for addressing misinformation during the pandemic.

Explore further Gut instinct could see you fall for COVID misinformation

More information: Brendan Nyhan, The ephemeral effects of fact-checks on COVID-19 misperceptions in the United States, Great Britain and Canada, Nature Human Behaviour (2022). Journal information: Nature Human Behaviour Brendan Nyhan, The ephemeral effects of fact-checks on COVID-19 misperceptions in the United States, Great Britain and Canada,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41562-021-01278-3
During a private Senate luncheon for Republicans, Sen. John Kennedy (RLA) expressed his inner racist when discussing Biden's upcoming SCOTUS nomination  which the president has said will be a Black woman.

According to Politico, he said upon leaving the shindig:

"No. 1. I want a nominee who knows a law book from a J. Crew catalog."

"No. 2. I want a nominee who's not going to try to rewrite the Constitution every other Thursday to try to advance a 'woke agenda.'"

And his racist, unspoken No. 3: My wishes can't be granted if a Black woman is nominated.

When asked about his statements and how they compare to the sentiment of some Republican leaders who think focusing on the SCOTUS nomination rather than the pocketbook is "counterproductive to their messaging," according to Politico, he said, "I'm going to talk about what I want to talk about, and if they don't like that, they can call somebody who cares."

From MarketWatch:

His remarks drew backlash on Twitter TWTR, -4.22% after the news broke on Wednesday, leading J. Crew to trend in the afternoon as readers discussed what they thought Kennedy meant by those words. Many saw racial undertones in the catalog comment, noting that former first lady Michelle Obama, a Black woman, was known for wearing a lot of J. Crew.

That's a racist slam recalling Michelle Obama famously wearing a J. Crew dress.  MN Eyes (@EisOnMN) February 2, 2022

The allegory to attorney Michelle Obama and her J Crew cardigans is some straight up racism. Good job, Senate Republicans. https://t.co/Vn2TliG5ve  Laura Chapin (@LauraChapin) February 2, 2022

Kennedy joined several Republicans questioning Biden's future Supreme Court pick to fill the vacancy that will be left on the bench when Justice Stephen Breyer retires after this session. And some of these Republicans have pointedly taken issue with Biden's promise to name a Black woman to the country's highest court. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) called Biden's vow to name a Black woman "offensive" because because Biden is saying that white men and women have the "wrong skin pigment and wrong Y chromosome," which has also drawn some backlash. Mississippi Sen. Roger Wicker said he views the process as "affirmative action."
As a lifelong fan of superheroes, I still have trouble accepting that parkour is real. Seeing a living, breathing, flesh, and blood being ricochet off walls and rooftops like Daredevil makes me question my state of wakefulness, if only for a second. Also, the dizzying heights from which parkour athletes dive give me a vicarious case of vertigo that makes their feats all the more enthralling. When you consider the risk of injury involved from a single fall, it becomes obvious why Europeans invented the sport with their glorious universal healthcare.

Parkour is already dangerous enough with two legs, but an inspiring athlete from Iran somehow manages to defy gravity with only one. At the tender age of five, Yadollah Gholami lost his leg in an accident. However, Gholami pressed forward to achieve his dreams instead of succumbing to melancholy. Now, I'm not saying that disabled people only have value when they inspire those who are fully abled, but I'd be lying if I said that watching Gholami's tenacity doesn't kill my lethargy faster than a Redbull.
Baghdad: Abu Ibrahim al-Qurayshi, a religious scholar and former soldier in Iraqi leader Saddam Husseins army, led Islamic State from the shadows for a little over two years before he blew himself up during a raid by US forces on a house in northern Syria.

The 45-year-old Iraqi had been an important leader in Islamic States precursor, the Islamic State of Iraq - an offshoot of al Qaeda - since soon after the US invasion that toppled Saddam in 2003.

Qurayshi, was named the leader of Islamic State, a violent Sunni Muslim jihadist group, shortly after his predecessor Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi also blew himself up during a US operation in 2019 in Syria.

Baghdadi had declared a medieval-style Islamic caliphate from a mosque in the Iraqi city of Mosul after his militants overran the city and then seized vast swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014.

By contrast, Qurayshi was a shadowy figure who led the group at a time when it was under intense military pressure from US-led, Iraqi and other forces after losing all the territory it had once controlled.
CROWN POINT  After the city issued a demolition order at the start of January, a vacant Crown Point house will soon be demolished.

The Board of Public Works and Safety received a contract for the demolition of a house located at 312 Oak Circle, to be done at the owner's expense.

The property was issued an unsafe emergency order in April 2021, attorney Joe Irak said. Over the summer the dilapidated garage and several overgrown trees were removed, but the house remains.

During a Jan. 12 meeting, the board approved a motion to have the city's legal team work with the Building Department to collect three proposals for a tear down.

The owner wants to sell the property and was looking for a buyer interested in demolition.

After receiving two bids, one for $12,395 from Austgen Equipment and another for $4,800 from Ziese and Sons Excavating, the board unanimously approved the bid from Ziese during a Jan. 19 meeting. The property owner chose to contract with Ziese and has put the land up for sale as a vacant lot, Irak said.

Irak said the project is moving along "very quickly and smoothly" with just one barrier  the removal of the electric line. Irak said the property owner has contacted NIPSCO, but it will be about three to four weeks before the line is removed, meaning the house will not be demolished for at least a month.

The unsafe property has now been removed from the board's agenda, though Irak said he will provide an update once the demolition has been completed.

"The end game is, that neighborhood will get that home torn down, and the homeowner got the benefit of the city working with local vendors to go out and get a pricing that they will pay for," Mayor David Uran said. "We will get a new valuable lot with a new assessed valuation of a new home in that neighborhood."
NEW YORK, Feb. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- WeissLaw LLP is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by the board of directors of Peak Bancorp, Inc. ("Peak Bancorp" or the "Company") (OTC: IDFB), in connection with the proposed acquisition of the Company by BAWAG Group ("BAWAG") (OTC: BWAGF). Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, the Company's shareholders will receive $12.05 in cash for each share of Peak Bancorp common stock that they hold. The transaction is valued at approximately $65 million.

If you own Peak Bancorp shares and wish to discuss this investigation or have any questions concerning this notice or your rights or interests, visit our website:

https://www.weisslaw.co/news-and-cases/idf

Or please contact:

Joshua Rubin, Esq.

WeissLaw LLP

305 Broadway, 7th Floor

New York, NY 10007

(212) 682-3025

(888) 593-4771

[email protected]

WeissLaw LLP is investigating whether (i) Peak Bancorp's board of directors acted in the best interests of Company shareholders in agreeing to the proposed transaction, (ii) the $12.05 per-share merger consideration adequately compensates Peak Bancorp's shareholders, and (iii) all information regarding the sales process and valuation of the transaction will be fully and fairly disclosed.

WeissLaw LLP has litigated hundreds of stockholder class and derivative actions for violations of corporate and fiduciary duties. We have recovered over a billion dollars for defrauded clients and obtained important corporate governance relief in many of these cases. If you have information or would like legal advice concerning possible corporate wrongdoing (including insider trading, waste of corporate assets, accounting fraud, or materially misleading information), consumer fraud (including false advertising, defective products, or other deceptive business practices), or anti-trust violations, please email us at [email protected]

SOURCE WeissLaw LLP
Lincoln Laboratory researcher James Balcius tests the heat strain detection device. The smartwatch displays a thumbs-up and green background, indicating that he is not at risk of heat injury at this time. Credit: Glen Cooper

In 2020, more than 2,000 U.S. service members experienced heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Such injuries pose a "significant and persistent threat to both the health of U.S. military members and the effectiveness of military operations," according to a recent military health report. Young or inexperienced recruits are especially vulnerable.

A new device from MIT Lincoln Laboratory can now alert trainees when they are heading toward injury. The device continuously estimates a person's core body temperature to determine their risk level for heat strain as they train. This risk is communicated on a smartwatch display, providing early warning to its wearer.

"Heat injury is a preventable injury if you know how to look for it," says James Balcius, who leads the program. A biomedical researcher in the Human Health and Performance Systems Group, Balcius joined Lincoln Laboratory following 30 years of military service. "The services have these injuries in the hundreds each year, and annually a number of service members have died from this. Trainers and medics could benefit from tools that provide a warning of an impending heat casualty. That's why we're developing this technology."

The system is made up of a few components. First, an armband sensor measures the trainee's heart rate. Those heart rate data are sent via Bluetooth to a smartwatch. Installed on the watch, a Lincoln Laboratory-developed app runs an algorithm that uses the data to estimate core body temperature. Depending on those results, the smartwatch will display a visual icon (a stop sign, danger sign, or thumbs up) with a colored background (red, yellow, or green) and emit an audible tone to alert users if they are overheating.

"It doesn't mean that everyone who goes into the red will get injured, but there's a higher probability that they will, so they need to take a break," Balcius says.

This technology was developed under the sponsorship of the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity and in partnership with the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine. In October, the technology was transitioned to the U.S. Marine Corps Training and Education Command, who have so far fielded 170 prototypes at basic training sites. Feedback has been positive, with recommendations to enhance the capability.

Tara Boettcher, also a researcher in the Human Health and Performance Systems Group, was key to coordinating logistics for device components, system assembly, and delivery to field sites.

"It was nice to get back in the field to see the device being tested, first at Parris Island and then in San Diego," Balcius says. It was also a reminder of how easily heat injuries can occur. "I remember our team was saying, 'Oh, well it's pretty balmy today,' and then we saw three heat cases in just that one day we were there."

The core body temperatures that the device monitors to determine a red, yellow, or green alert are set at "generally lower temperatures," Balcius says, appropriate for recruits who may not yet be acclimated to the demands of military training. In the future, this setting could be modified at the individual level.

The algorithm this device uses to estimate core body temperature was developed by the U.S. government in 2013. It has since been used in many commercial products. This device, however, is the first use of the algorithm in a form factor as small as a smartwatch.

Nancy DeLosa, a software developer and architect at the laboratory, wrote the code responsible for that successful integration. "We've taken the same concept and have used it in a lot of different form factors," says DeLosa. Similar heat strain technology that she developed software for over the past decade inspired this work, and helped this new device come together in less than a year. That prior technology, now in use by the military, is a more complex physiological monitoring system.

The appeal of this new device is its lightweight and low-cost (under $500). Using commercial equipment was key to meeting those requirements, though updates to the smartwatch's operating system and discontinuation of the armband heart rate monitor model threw last-minute curve balls to the program. Switching to the newer model that used two Bluetooth channels instead of one confused the system; DeLosa worked through these problems by making programming changes.

"It was an interesting experience taking COTS [commercial off-the-shelf] equipment and trying to make it do something that it was never designed to do," she adds.

Now that the program has come to an end, Balcius is pursuing ways to transition this capability beyond the military. Heat stress injuries are reported significantly in humanitarian aid and disaster relief organizations as well.

For Balcius, his personal experience makes preventing these injuries especially meaningful.

"In basic training, I had a heat injury. It's very personal for me to want to stop another person from having to go through that," he says. "It's why I served for so long, and its why I came to Lincoln Laboratoryto be part of the mission in a way that I am most useful. Heat injury may not be an injury that comes to mind when thinking of warfighters, but it persistently occurs every year across all the services and needs solving."

Explore further Engineers design on-skin electronic device providing a personal air conditioner without needing electricity
Union boss John Setka allegedly called his estranged wife a 'f***ing dog' and threatened to have her job 'taken away' from her in a fiery phone conversation.

The Victorian Construction Forestry Maritime Mining and Energy Union secretary's estranged wife Emma Walters alleges her husband abused her and made verbal threats in a phone call last week.

During the call - which Ms Walters recorded using another phone - Mr Setka allegedly told her she had made a 'c**t of yourself' and said he would withhold money from her until they agreed how to split their finances.

His wife gave the recording to police after accusing her husband of assaulting her in August.

She alleges he hit her head against a table at their home in Melbourne's west.

'Stop being a f***ing dog, everyone who tries to help you - you call them a threat,' the union official can allegedly be heard saying in the recording.

Mr Setka helped her find a job at a Melbourne building site controlled by the union, but the relationship has since soured and the couple no longer live together.

Ms Walters alleged her husband also called her a 'give-up dog c**t' during the phone call for going to police.

'He called a friend of mine, Anne Gooley, a 'dog c**t' and words to that effect, and that I should not listen to her advice,' she said in a police statement obtained by The Australian.

'John articulated to me that the mediator thought I was a drunk dog c**t and everyone at the job site where I currently work thinks I am a dog.

Union boss John Setka pictured with his estranged wife Emma Walters. He allegedly called her a 'f***ing dog' and threatened to have her job 'taken away' from her

'[He said] I should be grateful to him and the union for allowing me to have that job and that that job can be taken away and I will not receive the income.'

A spokeswoman for the union boss declined to comment on the recording.

In 2019, he pleaded guilty to bombarding his wife with dozens of abusive texts and phone calls.

Mr Setka called Ms Walters 25 times and sent 45 text messages in October last year, Melbourne Magistrates Court heard.

The couple displayed a united front at the time, with the union boss kissing his wife as they left court.

'I screwed up. And it's up to me fix it,' Mr Setka said.

Mr Setka with Ms Walters in 2019. That year, he pleaded guilty to bombarding his wife with dozens of abusive texts and phone calls

The couple displayed a united front at the time. 'I screwed up. And it's up to me fix it,' Mr Setka said

'I've sent messages and used language that I am deeply embarrassed by and regret.

'It's not okay for us to speak to each other like that. There's never been any physical violence in our relationship but we're coming to terms with the fact that words can be just as hurtful.'

He rejected repeated calls from within the CFMEU to step down.
The Times Ask the Expert answers those common and not so common questions and gives you some insight and guidance from professionals in their field. Check out the great videos and stories from local businesses. Have a question? You can use the form on our expert's pages to submit your question.

There has always been a fundamental preference for personalized banking relationships. However, todays consumers are looking for flexible banking products and services that fit their unique lifestyle. As we inevitably progress toward a digital-first future, banks are continuously adapting to meet their customers demands for more high-tech, high-touch methods of banking.

For more information about products and services offered at Peoples Bank, call (219) 836-4400, or visit ibankpeoples.com.

Childrens wellness begins at home with NorthShore Health showing the way

When your child has a worrisome symptom, you want it resolved as quickly as possible. At NorthShore Health Centers, Dr. Ramadevi Sankaran is ready to diagnose and treat children as efficiently as possible.

NorthShore Health Centers: The Right Care, Right Away.

For more information go to northshorehealth.org or call 219-763-8112.

Strack & Van Til makes the marinating easy for Certified Angus Beef cuts

Do you crave tender, juicy and flavorful beef, but dread the prep, stress and mess of making it? Save time and serve tasty marinated Certified Angus Beef options from Strack & Van Til.

Just one example of the Strack & Van Til Meals Made Easy selections, Certified Angus Beef  a grade above USDA Prime, Choice and Select, and the most luxurious beef  is available pre-marinated for your convenience in a variety of cuts. High quality, delicious, quick and easy to prepare, you can find them in the meat market at all Strack & Van Til grocery store locations in Northwest Indiana.

For more information go to strackandvantil.com.

Its time to get back to regular health checks and Midwest Express stands ready to help

The COVID-19 pandemic has been rife with challenges over the past year and a half, and one, in particular, has emerged as a double-edged sword: the need to maintain preventive health yet delaying it out of fear of exposure.

To learn more about Midwest Express Clinics, find a clinic near you and check in online, visit midwestexpressclinic.com.

Expert, caring Gina Guarino Group shines in real estate boom

In the current strong housing market its even more essential to have a Realtor familiar with the Region who can help clients navigate home sales and acquisitions to their best advantage, says Gina Guarino.

For more information go to ginaguarinogroup.com or call 219-865-4391

Flu seasons near, and NW Indiana ER is ready to handle that and more

With flu season fast approaching, the time is right to head off the risk of infection  and to be tested for flu and COVID-19. NW Indiana ER & Hospital in Hammond is ready to provide that service in the most convenient, fastest way, says Amanda Jensen, chief nursing officer.

NW Indiana ER & Hospital has made testing for influenza and COVID-19 easy, combining the tests in just one swab.

NW Indiana ER & Hospital is at 7904 Cabela Drive, Hammond, and can be reached at nwindianaer.com or 219-554-9911.
EAST WINDSOR, N.J., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- APNAR Pharma LP (APNAR) headquartered in Chino, CA has acquired East Windsor, NJ based Aurex Laboratories (Aurex) for an undisclosed amount. This acquisition enhances APNAR's capabilities, scale, and global footprint and broadens APNAR's pipeline.

Dharmesh Patel, President of APNAR said, "As part of our well-defined strategy and commitment of having manufacturing in the United States of America, we are excited to acquire Aurex. This milestone will position APNAR as a company with global footprint in the US and India."

Sanjay Bhargav, COO of APNAR added, "In addition to adding state-of-the-art facility to APNAR's capabilities in the US, we are pleased to welcome to APNAR an amazing team that is experienced, highly capable, and dedicated including scientists, manufacturing, regulatory, and project management personnel."

"In addition to developing and manufacturing APNAR's own products, we are looking forward to working in a collaborative manner with other companies for contract and co-development and contract manufacturing," added Patel.

"We look forward to manufacturing APNAR's 5 ANDAs and other drugs in the US to ensure supply chain security and excellence," added Bhargav.

Nailesh Bhatt acted as a strategic advisor to both Aurex Laboratories and APNAR Pharma.

About APNAR Pharma LP

Headquartered in Chino, California, APNAR Pharma is a privately owned, rapidly growing pharmaceutical company. We develop, manufacture, package, sell, market, and distribute generic pharmaceuticals and OTCs. APNAR has R&D and manufacturing facilities in East Windsor, NJ, United States and Gavasad, Gujarat, India.

www.apnarpharma.com

SOURCE Apnar Pharma

Related Links

http://www.apnarpharma.com


Travel industry trade groups are pushing federal officials to drop the pre-departure coronavirus testing requirement for vaccinated travelers flying into the United States.

Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said the organization is very much in favor of shaking up the entry requirements to make travel to the U.S. more seamless.

Our expectation is that taking that away will definitely increase travel, Dow told reporters Wednesday, adding that the expectation was an intuitive guess rather than one backed by data. Travel is like water. You put a barrier in place, it will impede it.

Other destinations, including the United Kingdom and Puerto Rico, have dropped testing requirements for fully vaccinated travelers in recent weeks. Dozens of trade associations hope the U.S. will follow suit.

A Wednesday letter to White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Jeffrey Zients signed by trade groups in a number of travel sectors urgently requests the Biden administration to remove the pre-departure testing requirement for vaccinated flyers.

Passengers are seen at Edinburgh airport.

TRAVELING TO PUERTO RICO? Entry restrictions are about to ease for vaccinated US travelers

The U.S. has required travelers to test before entry since January 2021. Currently, all travelers 2 and older flying into the country  regardless of vaccination status or citizenship  must test negative for the coronavirus with a viral test no more than one day before their trip. Domestic flyers and travelers who can show proof of recovery do not need to test.

Wednesday's letter argues that the pervasiveness of COVID-19 cases in all 50 states, increased immunity among the U.S. population, improved vaccination rates and new treatments for the virus have led to pre-departure testing among the vaccinated to be immaterial.

The letter also points to research by consulting companies Oxera and Edge Health, commissioned by Manchester Airports Group, that found travel restrictions are likely to have a "very limited impact" on COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations when a variant is already prevalent within a country.

Story continues

TRAVEL TO THE UK: Visiting the UK is about to get easier for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers

Removing the requirement will greatly support the recovery of travel and aviation in the United States and globally without increasing the spread of COVID-19 and its Variants, the letter reads. We share the Administrations commitment to getting as many people fully vaccinated and boosted as possible and believe removal of this impediment for vaccinated travel will further incentivize vaccinations.

The letter was signed by airline industry trade group Airlines for America, the American Hotel and Lodging Association, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and more than two dozen other organizations.

Brandon Guthrie, associate professor of global health and epidemiology at the University of Washington, agreed that the testing requirements contribution to easing COVID-19 rates within the country is probably fairly negligible. He pointed to U.S. case rates during the omicron surge, which hit record highs despite the testing requirements.

(The testing requirement) may have delayed the omicron surge a little bit, but clearly it did not appreciably change the course of the surge, Guthrie told USA TODAY.

He added that while the pandemic is "absolutely" not over, many public health officials are considering when and how to roll back restrictions in favor of "more sustainable, ongoing" ways to manage the virus.

"We're really thinking about, are we getting a benefit from those measures that offsets the costs?" Guthrie said. "Because it seems very clear at this point that we are not going to be seeing the end of COVID anytime soon. It is something that we are going to be living with and we are going to have to come up with strategies to do that."

Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Travel groups urge US to drop testing 'barrier' for vaccinated flyers
Edward Parker (42) was bartending at The Lodge at Hualapai in Las Vegas in 2020 when an armed robber came in and stole $3900 from the bar. A few hours after the traumatic incident the bar owner made Parker sign an agreement to pay the bar back by taking $300 from his paycheck until the amount was paid off. Parker was later fired from The Lodge because he took a pre-approved vacation.

Now Parker is suing The Lodge for taking advantage of him while he was in a fragile mental state.

From 8 News Now Las Vegas:

Video of the incident obtained by the 8 News Now I-Team shows an armed man coming into The Lodge at Hualapai on the morning of Dec. 4, 2020. Edward Parker, 42, was working at the bar when the robber demanded money. Parker, holding his hands in the air, gives the armed man money from the register and cash sitting on the bar, the video showed. The business is on Hualapai Way near Desert Inn Road in Summerlin. "It's December 2020. We're in the middle of COVID," Parker said. "People are fighting for jobs left and right. I suppose I let the idea of having a steady job with steady income cloud my judgment."

It's no surprise that The Lodge was "one of several Las Vegas Valley bars accused in a 2016 lawsuit of shorting employees a portion of their pay."
At first blush, the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine doesnt look like some flaming hotbed of liberalism.

With a picturesque view of Lake Erie and scenic Presque Isle State Park  as well as campuses across the country  it bills itself as the nations largest medical school, and the most applied-to medical school in the country.

And last month, Republican Rep. Mike Kelly, who represents the Pennsylvania school on Capitol Hill, was only too happy to trumpet the fact that it was the recipient of a $2.2 million, Kelly-backed grant, that would aid healthcare workers during the pandemic.

The school is a great community partner whose staff is among those in our district who can benefit from this funding, Kelly said in a statement posted to his official website. These funds will greatly impact our front-line heroes who have given so much to our country and their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Great cause, right? So whered the money come from? If you guessed the Biden administrations $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan package, give yourself a star.

And if you guessed that Kelly opposed the COVID relief bill and dismissed it as being packed with left-wing projects, give yourself one more star. And if you guessed on top of that that the veteran Erie pol backed a failed effort to topple Bidens Pennsylvania victory in 2020, take the rest of the day off.

With that one gesture, Kelly placed himself in the growing ranks of Republican lawmakers who have gleefully filleted Biden, opposed his agenda, and then taken credit for its benefits to the folks back home.

One of the more recent public examples, Iowa Rep. Ashley Hinson, was roundly criticized after she slammed the White Houses $1.2 trillion infrastructure law, and then boasted about the $829 million in funding for lock and dam upgrades it would bring to her constituents.

Kelly isnt even Pennsylvanias only example of this kind of GOP reality-distortion. Rep. Glenn Thompson, whose 15th District sprawls across the rural north-central part of the state, urged local fire companies last month to apply for a $46 million grant program that received an injection of pandemic relief money.

Of course, Thomson called that relieve package a wish list of the progressive wing of the Democrat party (sic) and voted against it. But the firefighter grants included in the bill? Thats the good stuff.

As a volunteer firefighter, I know there is an overwhelming need for additional resources to help first responders better protect our communities, Thompson said in the Jan. 18 statement his office issued. I stand ready to assist and provide support for any company in the Congressional District looking to pursue these opportunities.

In an email, a spokesperson for Kelly said the northwestern Pennsylvania lawmaker wrote a letter of support for the medical school which was seeking grant funding made possible through the American Rescue Plan.

In an email, a spokesperson for Thompson said the GOP lawmaker has supported the emergency services grant program for years, and that the pandemic relief money had provided a $10 million infusion to a $46 million program already in the federal budget.

The American Rescue Plan totals $1.9 trillion, and this supplement translates to .00052 percent of the total package, senior Thompson aide Renee Gamela said. While Congressman Thompson supports the FP&S grant program, he could not support the bill in its entirety.

Kelly isnt the first to try to take credit for the product of bills that he voted against, Chris Borick, a pollster and political analyst at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, said. But apparently he thinks his constituents either dont care or dont know about the disconnect between his positions.

During an appearance in Cleveland last May, Biden played to the crowd, pulling out a list of Republican lawmakers who opposed the pandemic relief bill.

My Republican friends in Congress, not a single one of them voted for the rescue plan, Biden said, according to the Independent.

Democrats already are vowing to use these pivots against the GOP in this Novembers all-the-marbles midterm elections.

Theyre not going to find themselves wanting for material.
School boards across the state of Texas are receiving requests from parents to remove books from school libraries. The majority of the books targeted deal with racism or sexuality.

Some schools have already taken books off of their library shelves for review and others have been removed permanently. In October a Texas state lawmaker compiled a list of books that he wants removed because they might make students uneasy.

Also see:

Growing trend of banning books

Parents challenging the content of school libraries has been on the increase across the nation since the start of the school year. The trend is especially acute in Texas where some school districts have received more challenges than in the past two decades together. The state passed House Bill 3979 in June last year, which became law in December, that prohibited state teachers from discussing topics related to critical race theory.

Texas state Representative Matt Krause asked the Texas Education Agency to investigate if schools had any books from a list of 850 that he thinks might be discomforting to students. In his letter he also asked the agency to look for any other books that contain material that might make students feel discomfort, guilt, anguish or any other form of psychological distress. He requested that their location and the amount of money spent to acquire the books be reported.

Danika Ellis, Associate Editor at Book Riot, did an analysis of all 850 books on Krauses list. She found glaring problems with how the list was put together calling it a weird, jumbled mess. In her analysis around 60 percent of the list related to books that deal with LGBTQ issues. The remainder are presumably on the list because of race matters, sex education and talking about pregnancy or abortion.

The drive to "ban" books isn't only coming from the right. https://t.co/eLhlVRoIqr  Slate (@Slate) February 3, 2022

Books that have been banned in Texas

Some school districts have already started taking books off their shelves even without objections from parents. An investigation by NBC News found that 400 titles dealing with race, sexuality and gender were removed from school libraries in the North East Independent School District in San Antonio. No formal complaint has been filed for their removal but administrators did so using Rep. Krauses list to review them under the new state law.

The Katy Independent School District outside of Houston has already decided that nine books are not appropriate for students at any grade level from at least 30 that it is reviewing. Under the district's policies it cannot open a review without a formal challenge to a book, but most of the books never received any such challenge.

Books banned by Katy Independent School District

"All Boys Aren't Blue" by George M Johnson

"Forever for a Year" by BT Gottfred

"The Handsome Girl & Her Beautiful Boy" by BT Gottfred

"Jack of Hearts (and Other Parts)" by LC Rosen

"Lawn Boy" by Jonathan Evison

"Losing the Girl: Book 1" by MariNaomi

"Me Earl and the Dying Girl" by Jesse Andrews

"The Nerdy and the Dirty" by BT Gottfred

"Out of Darkness" by Ashley Hope Perez

The Granbury Independent School District near Fort Worth confirmed at the end of January that it had removed another 125 books from shelves. The district had previously decided to permanently remove five young adult fiction books, all written by Abbi Glines. The other books will be reviewed with a spokesperson telling WFAA that most of the books would likely return to shelves but was not forthcoming with a timeline.

Nor has the district complied with a records request for the titles that have been pulled, but Christopher Tackett a parent in the district tweeted out a photo of a list he was given in response to his request. Additionally, he posted a photo of boxes being removed from the library that had Krause List on the side.
UNITED NATIONS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 02nd February, 2022) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls on all actors in Guinea-Bissau to demonstrate restraint and prevent any escalation following an attempted military coup in the West African country, United Nations spokesman Farhan Haq said in a press briefing on Wednesday.

"The Secretary-General... encourages all stakeholders, particularly defense and security forces, to exercise restraint and take all necessary measures to prevent any actions that could undermine peace and stability in Guinea-Bissau," Haq said.

The spokesman also said the UN chief continues to closely follow the developments in Guinea-Bissau and urges the authorities to ensure that investigations into the coup attempt are carried out in full compliance with human rights standards.

On Tuesday, a group of people in civilian clothes, armed with machine guns and grenade launchers, attacked the house of the government in the capital Bissau, where a meeting of the Council of Ministers was being held.

According to reports in media, at least six people have been killed in the armed attack.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo said that the shooting in Bissau lasted five hours, resulting in "many deaths," while not providing a specific number. Embalo also said he was safe and located at the presidential palace, adding that the situation in the city is under control.

The Russian embassy in Guinea-Bissau told Sputnik that rebels had taken Embalo hostage. After a fierce five-hour firefight, he was liberated and brought to the presidential palace.
The recipes are rarely stringent  if you cant find hot mint, you cant find hot mint!  and encourage adaptation and variation. Collected, they also trace the shift of fish sauce from Vietnamese kitchens into more American restaurant kitchens and home kitchens of all backgrounds over the last decade, particularly on the West Coast, and present it as a kind of borderless, fluid ingredient. This makes sense if youre selling fish sauce, obviously, but it also makes sense if youre cooking with it. The butterflied grilled perch recipe is inspired by the chef Sergio Penuelas, from Nayarit, in Mexico, and his pescado zarandeado. The whole fish is marinated in butter, fish sauce and turmeric, then served with caramelized onions and corn tortillas. The dish makes perfect sense, and so does using fish sauce in a Caesar salad dressing, instead of (or as well as) tinned anchovies. As Pham points out, a splash of fish sauce in pasta, stews and many other European dishes has long been part of the Vietnamese cooks approach, including his mothers.

The book also includes a recipe for bun ken, a saucy coconut fish curry with rice noodles and plenty of raw, crunchy toppings  a street food specialty of Kien Giang Province, often served by vendors on Phu Quoc starting first thing in the morning. It wasnt meant to go in the book, but the chef Diep Tran, while researching the book with Pham and Nguyen on the island, tasted it one day for breakfast and became preoccupied with it, and recreating it. It was the first thing I did when I got home, Tran said. I thought, I have to do this while my memory is still good.

The noodles were fine and rice. And shed seen dimples of red oil, which indicated annatto. And she could still smell the grassiness of cilantro root, the softly medicinal qualities of the turmeric, the perfumes of makrut and lemongrass. The recipe walks you through that precisely layered curry: thick and creamy, deeply flavored with the browned aromatics and steeped coconut milk, all built on a base of fish broth. But it isnt complete without the nuoc cham, which is used not as a dipping sauce here but as a dressing for green papaya, cucumber, carrots and the load of herbs and sprouts that you pile on top of each bowl.

In the spirit of the book, Tran adapted a bit, calling for fatty yellowtail collars instead of whole fish, to make pulling the meat a little more efficient for home cooks.
Why Texas Is a Mecca for Bitcoin Miners

Texas has turned into a mecca for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency miners over the past year.

It might not appear to be a likely location for virtual token mining, but crypto professionals and billions of dollars in capital are flooding the southern state. This has led to a growing number of cryptocurrency communities across the stateand not only in Austin, Texas, which has been dubbed as a sort of Silicon Valley 2.0 in recent years.

But why is Texas the primary beneficiary of the great mining migration?

Energy rates have been a significant factor in the Lone Star States crypto boom. Texass energy rates are currently ranked as the seventh-lowest in the nation, with the annual average price per kilowatt-hour of 8.36 cents, ahead of North Dakotas 8.53 cents and behind Nevadas 8.33 cents.

Wind turbines are viewed at a wind farm in Colorado City, Texas, on Jan. 21, 2016. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

In addition to being the largest energy producer in the country, Texas has deregulated the power grid, facilitating a more competitive environment for utilities and their customers, according to Ali Rehman, a blockchain investor and the co-founder of Find The Venue.

Given that the power grid in Texas is deregulated, electricity providers are incentivized to provide low rates, which means customers can choose between different power providers, Rehman told The Epoch Times. Cryptocurrency mining facilities can set up long-term contracts with power providers, which means they can purchase electricity at a fixed price for many years.

Public policy has further served as an integral component of strengthening industry confidence.

In 2021, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott met with dozens of cryptocurrency leaders to discuss a proposal that might have seemed to be counterintuitive on the surface.

Miners could support the states power grid by demanding immense levels of electricity, forcing private companies to begin constructing additional power plants. Should the grid start sputtering in the event of a major storm, as it did during winter storm Uri in February 2021, miners could suspend operations to conserve energy for residential properties and businesses.

Despite most of the states energy needs being satisfied by natural gas, about one-fifth of Texass energy also emanates from wind power, making cryptocurrency mining a relatively green exercise, unlike other parts of the worldsuch as Chinathat use coal, Rehman said.

Argo Blockchain, a world-leading cryptocurrency miner that set up operations in West Texas, is relying on renewables such as solar and windwith natural gas as a backupfor its mining needs.

Foreign restrictions have also been imperative to attracting the sectors power players.

China, which had controlled up to two-thirds of global Bitcoin mining, banned all domestic crypto mining and trading in June 2021. This was in addition to restricting financial institutions from participating in crypto transactions, declaring all digital token transactions as illegal.

When China banned Bitcoin mining last year, a lot of Chinese miners started to look for places outside, Kalyan Banerjee, co-founder of Lumenci, told The Epoch Times. They found Kazakhstan and Texas. I would say that the overall Texas ecosystem kind of jumped on that opportunity, making all the right noises in the media and reaching out to those people, saying that there is enough land available.

There is enough power deregulation and the energy is cheap. So come here, come one, and come all.

But if energy prices are one of the primary factors, why wouldnt the miners migrate to other states with even lower costs, such as Louisiana (7.51 cents) and Oklahoma (7.63 cents)?

In the past couple of years, many tech firms, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals have moved to Texas. This has resulted in an established crypto-related ecosystem.

As crypto companies flock to Texas due to their more lax regulation, support networks begin to become established, Jonathan Teplitsky, the founder and CEO of Pipeline Marketing, told The Epoch Times. These support networks include companies, co-working spaces like We-Work, VC-funded networks, socials and mixers, and even city-council-sponsored events and networks.

Speaking at the Texas Blockchain Summit in Austin in October 2021, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) promoted the industry, particularly how the sphere could support the energy system.

Because of the ability of Bitcoin mining to turn on or off instantaneously, if you have a moment where theres a power shortage in a power crisis, whether it is a freeze or some other natural disaster where power generation capacity goes down, they become excess reserves that can strengthen the grids resilience by providing a significant capacity of additional power to be available for critical services if and when its needed, Cruz said during the conference.

A construction worker walks past bitcoin mining at Bitfarms in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, on March 19, 2018. (Lars Hagberg / AFP via Getty Images)

In time, Bitcoin mining could play a substantial role in the Texas energy grid.

In five years, I expect to see a dramatically different terrain, with Bitcoin mining playing a significant role [in] strengthening and hardening the resiliency of the grid, Cruz said.

Former Texas governor and presidential candidate Rick Perry described miners as a major accelerant for job creation and sustainable economic growth in the state.

In November 2021, Austin Mayor Steve Adler told a local Fox News affiliate that he wants the state capital to become a crypto city. Should Texas continue its push to transform itself into a crypto paradise, the state could be responsible for as much as one-third of global Bitcoin output.

But other places in the United States are competing with Texas for that heightened level of interest and investment. Miami has witnessed a wave of capital with blockchain and cryptocurrency firms popping up in the city.

So we would see the same type of innovation with respect to blockchain in both Miami and Austin, said Harish Daiya, co-founder and CEO of Lumenci.

Overall, it might not only be a handful of U.S. jurisdictions to serve as a magnet for crypto mining. With enough cheap energy and crypto-friendly regulations, experts anticipate that the entire country will be a mining hotspot for many years to come.
Chandigarh, Feb 3 (PTI) The AAP and the BJP hit out at the ruling Congress in Punjab on Thursday over its leader Sunil Jakhar's statement that 42 party MLAs wanted him as the chief minister of the state after the unceremonious exit of Amarinder Singh last year.

While Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Raghav Chadha accused the Congress of doing politics on the basis of caste and religion, Union minister and the BJP's in-charge for Punjab Gajendra Singh Shekhawat questioned the "selective secularism" of the grand old party by "refusing" to make Jakhar the chief minister "because of his religion".

Also Read | Rajasthan Horror: Minor Girl From Ratlam Raped By Man On Pretext Of Marrying Her In Banswara; Case Registered.

In a video clip that surfaced online, Jakhar is heard saying 42 Congress MLAs wanted him to be the chief minister after Amarinder Singh's exit. He was addressing a gathering in Abohar on Tuesday.

Jakhar was among the frontrunners for the top post, but the party preferred Charanjit Singh Channi, who became the first Scheduled Caste (SC) chief minister of Punjab.

Also Read | Param Pravega: India Gets New Supercomputer, the Most Powerful So Far.

"Forty-two votes went to Sunil (Jakhar), 16 to Sukhjinder Randhawa, 12 to (Amarinder Singh's wife and Patiala MP) Preneet Kaur, six to (Punjab Congress chief) Navjot Singh Sidhu and two to Channi," Jakhar is heard saying in the clip.

Addressing reporters here, Chadha alleged that the former Punjab Congress president was not appointed to the top post because he is a Hindu.

"The Congress is conspiring to divide people on the basis of caste and religion by giving a religious colour to the politics of Punjab. The biggest example of this is senior Congress leader Sunil Jakhar. Even after the support of 42 MLAs, he was not appointed as the chief minister just because he is a Hindu," he said.

The AAP leader said it was shameful that the Congress "expelled" Jakhar from the race to the chief minister's chair just because he belongs to a particular community.

He asked the Congress that when Jakhar was not in the race for the top post, why his photos are on the hoardings of the party along with those of Sidhu and Channi.

"The Congress is giving only two options to people to choose its chief ministerial face -- Sidhu and Channi. Why is Jakhar not an option?" Chadha asked, referring to the ruling party seeking public opinion on who should be its nominee for the top post in the February 20 polls.

Shekhawat questioned the "selective secularism" of the Congress by refusing to make Jakhar the chief minister "because of his religion".

"By his own admission, Jakhar was not made the chief minister even though he enjoyed the support of 42 of the 79 MLAs as he is a Hindu and some leaders in the party believed that only a Sikh should be the chief minister," Shekhawat said in a statement here while asking the Congress to explain its position.

"I want to ask the Congress that whether for becoming the chief minister in Punjab, is it a condition that one should not be a Hindu?

"Why shut the doors of chief ministership on someone only for his religion?" he asked.

"The revelation about him not being made the chief minister for his religion was not made by anyone else but Jakhar himself, who is a respected leader cutting across party lines," Shekhawat said.

The 117-member Punjab Assembly is scheduled to go to polls on February 20 and the counting of votes will be taken up on March 10.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
KIEV, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and visiting Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte met on Wednesday to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional security, the presidential press service said.

In a joint statement after their talks, Zelensky and Rutte stated their commitment to develop and further deepen the comprehensive bilateral partnership in all areas of mutual interest.

The two leaders highlighted opportunities for enhancing cooperation in the areas of circular economy, healthcare, water and waste management, renewable energy, information technologies, space technologies and inland waterways.

The two parties underlined the importance of a peaceful solution to the crisis in and around Ukraine, saying that diplomacy plays a crucial role in the peace process.

Rutte reiterated his country's support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

The Netherlands stands ready to provide technical cyber assistance to Ukraine and continue providing Ukrainian servicemen injured in the Donbas conflict with rehabilitative care, Rutte said.

At the joint press conference after their talks, Zelensky said Ukraine is taking steps to strengthen its defense capabilities, noting that the weapon provided to Ukraine by international partners is needed for protection, not for an offensive.

"The weapon is protection. We think only about peace. We think about the de-occupation of territories only through diplomacy," Zelensky emphasized.

Rutte arrived in Kiev on Tuesday for a working visit.

Since November, Kiev and some Western countries have accused Russia of assembling heavy troops near the Ukrainian border with a possible intention of "invasion."

Russia denied the accusation, saying that Russia has the right to mobilize troops within its borders to defend its territory as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's activities constitute a threat to Russia's border security.

Amid the tensions, some Western countries supplied lethal weapons to Ukraine. 
Chinese citizens and students of Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, hurl stones at troop on June 4, 1989 during a rioting following the proclamation of the martial in the city. A series of pro-democracy protests was sparked by the April 15 death of former communist party leader Hu Yaobang. In a show of force, China leaders vented their fury and frustration on student dissidents and their pro-democracy supporters. (-/AFP via Getty Images)

The CCP Will Kill as Many as It Has to Kill, to Preserve Its Power: Historian

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) will kill as many as it has to kill, to preserve its power, according to Alan Kors, a professor emeritus of history at the University of Pennsylvania.

When it faces a choice between further prosperity, further liberalization of an economy and the loss of political power, [the CCP] will place everything on the preservation of political power, Kors, co-chair at Washington-based advocacy group Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation (VOC), told EpochTVs China Insider program on Jan. 25.

Since 1978, the CCP implemented a series of economic policies as part of its reform and opening up. Many Western intellectuals believed this reform would naturally lead China to liberalize politically, and eventually result in democracy.

However, Kors argued throughout the 1980s that this would not happen, as the critical variable of Chinese communism was the preservation of power. He believes the events that followed proved him right.

In 1989, students and other protesters started to advocate for greater freedoms and rights in China. As the movement was gaining momentum and international media attention, the CCP ordered its troops to open fire on protesters in early June killing potentially hundreds or even thousands during the Tiananmen Square Massacre.

If you concentrate power over the lives of human beings in all domains, economic, political, educational, social  what you attract are the unscrupulous, the pathological, the sociopathological, explained Kors, citing libertarian economist and philosopher Friedrich Hayeks book, The Road to Serfdom.

The historian went on to say that the power, wealth, and privilege of the CCP is maintained under the myth that it represents the true interests of the communist people.

It is a myth that it represents the real interests of those people whom it has slaughtered and allowed to die throughout decades and decades and decades of Chinese history, he added.

When asked about the appeal of socialist ideology in Western universities, Kors said students are ignorant of the atrocities committed under communist regimes, and the extent of them.

Every child in America knows 6 million dead under Hitlers regime, they have no notion of what has occurred in Russia, in China, he said. How many people died under Mao in China after the catastrophe of liberation? They would say thousands, tens of thousands, maybe 100,000.

Yet more than 100 million people have died under communist regimes, far outnumbering the deaths of Nazi Germany. Mao Zedong, the CCPs first leader, alone is estimated to have caused the deaths of 70 million, and Stalin 40 million.

In China, alas, people certainly have the knowledge the challenge [but] they lack the freedom to challenge. In the West people do have the freedom to challenge, what they lack is the knowledge to challenge, he said.

And that is the great crime visited upon free people by the leftist educational establishment, added Kors.
Most of us can only dream of flying in a WWII-vintage fighter plane, let alone the thrill of doing so in the hallowed airspace through which so many men flew them eighty years ago, and yet this is precisely the opportunity which the newly-announced Ultimate World War II Fighter Experience Sweepstakes will provide. The following press-release provides more details for what is involved, and how to enter this exciting competition

Imagine soaring high over the iconic White Cliffs of Dover at the controls of a Supermarine Spitfire, just like the heroic pilots defending England during the harrowing days of the Battle of Britain in 1940. Or crossing the expanse of the English Channel in your P-40 Warhawk, returning from ground attack missions in occupied France. Then, fly in the Cadillac of all fighters  the legendary P-51D Mustang. Youll experience all three if you are the winner of the Ultimate World War II Fighter Experience Sweepstakes supporting the American Heritage Museum of Stow, Massachusetts!

The winner of the Ultimate WWII Fighter Experience Sweepstakes will travel to London, England, and will report to the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar just outside the city. This famous airfield was one of the fighter bases where RAF pilots flew from, defending their island nation during the Battle of Britain and the Blitz in the summer of 1940. The winner will be paired with experienced flight instructors to get familiar with three rare dual-seat fighters of WWII: the P-51D Mustang, the Supermarine Spitfire TR.9, and the Curtiss TP-40N Warhawk, before taking to the skies in each one! Flying even one of these incredible aircraft is unique, but flying in all three is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soar over the countryside of Kent and streak through the skies over the English Channel where German and British pilots fought aerial duels over eighty years ago.

The Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar features the worlds largest collection of operating Spitfires and is one of the most experienced operators of World War II fighters in Europe. While in the United Kingdom you have the opportunity to visit several other amazing aviation and history museums including the Imperial War Museum in Duxford, the Tank Museum in Dorset, and the RAF Museum in Hendon. This is the only sweepstakes opportunity like this in the world!

The WWII Fighter Experience sweepstakes is a fundraiser for the American Heritage Museum in Hudson, Massachusetts, a 501c3 non-profit educational museum operated by Collings Foundation, Inc. All proceeds will be used to support the Museums educational programs and continued growth. The winner of this one and only fighter flight package will also receive a $2,000 travel allowance.

The American Heritage Museum is housed in a 65,000 + square foot building located at the Collings Foundations headquarters in Stow, Massachusetts. The concept of the American Heritage Museum began when the Foundation was selected to receive the massive collection of tanks, armored vehicles, and military artifacts from the family of Jacques M. Littlefield in 2013.

Receiving this historically important and extensive collection was a tremendous honor for the Collings Foundation. Exhibiting these artifacts in the most meaningful way possible is our goal. We designed the American Heritage Museum to fully engage people in understanding our turbulent past. In this remarkable place, American history will be explored, studied, and most of all remembered. Through educational interpretation and a chronologically arranged series of dioramas and exhibits, the American Heritage Museum brings the history of our veterans to life. Among the staggering variety of rare relics, the American Heritage Museum features over fifteen tanks and artifacts that are the only ones on public display in North America. These include: M1A1 Abrams Tank, T-34 Tank, Kommandogerrat 38 German Rangefinder, Leichter Panzerspahwagen SdKfz 222 Armored Vehicle, Matilda MK.II Tank, Jumbo Sherman Tank, IS-2 Tank, Panzer 1 Tank, SCUD Missile and Launcher, Ho-Ro Tank, and many more.
Patna, Feb 3 : After the Muzaffarpur shelter home sex scandal, which emerged in 2018, a purportedly similar incident has been reported in Patna, where a girl inmate of the shelter home alleged that she and others were sexually assaulted on the direction of its Superintendent.

The victim has seeking redress for the last few days but Bihar Police have not registered any FIR in this matter. Moreover, the Social Welfare Department has given clean chit to the Gaighat shelter home's Superintendent Vandana Gupta and declared that the victim mentally unstable.

Now, the Mahila Vikas Manch and a Supreme Court advocate have come forward to help the victim.

The victim alleged that she was given drugs by the Superintendent and other employees and sexually assaulted by men inside the premises.

"I was a victim of sexual assault for many times inside the shelter home. The Superintendent of the shelter home used to invite youths inside the premises who targetted girl inmates in an unconscious or semi-unconscious stages. I realised sexual assault had been committed many times when I woke up in the morning. Several inmates have the same story," she said.

Mahila Vikas Manch convener Veena Manvi said: "The victim was released from the shelter home recently. When, she came to our NGO for some assistance or possible recommendation that may help to find a job, we asked about her health status and she revealed her plight.

"We immediately went to the women police station at Patna city but the officer refused to register an FIR in this matter." "The district administration of Patna played a negligent attitude in this matter. The District Magistrate, SSP and other senior officers tried every possible way to suppress the voice of the victim. The Social Welfare Department has issued a letter in the matter and given a clean chit to the Superintendent without any investigation," said Seema Samridhi, a Supreme Court lawyer who also fought the Nirbhaya case of Delhi, and has come to Patna to prosecute this case.

"Following the Nirbhaya case, if any girl is alleging that she was sexually assaulted or abused by any person, the police should register FIR first and then start investigation. In this case, the victim is a roaming from pillar to post for the last 5 days and no one is listening to her. Moreover, they tried every possible way to declare her mentally challenged.

"The way the victim has levelled allegations against the Superintendent of the shelter home, it reflects that some big fish are involved in this matter. The accused Superintendent is still holding the post. We are thankful that the Patna High Court has taken cognisance of this matter and slammed the Bihar government on Thursday," Samridhi said.

"Whenever heinous incident like this appears in public domain, the governments of respective states always try to suppress the voice of the victim. In this case too, the Bihar government is doing the same. They did the same in the Muzaffarpur shelter home incident and they are doing it again," she said.

Samridhi said that the government should immediately arresta Gupta and form a high-level inquiry committee, including officials of Mahila Vikas Manch to investigate the incident. The committee should be monitored by the Patna High Court so that the officials would not influence the victim.

"There are 250 to 300 girl inmates below 18 years of age are lodged inside the Gaighat shelter home. They should undergo counselling so that the truth would come out," she said.

When contacted, Gupta refused to comment on this matter. She said that senior officials are looking after this case.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered Thursday on a visit to Kyiv to hold a Ukraine-Russia summit, as EU leaders stepped up outreach to the Kremlin to defuse fears Moscow could invade

Kyiv, Feb 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Feb, 2022 ) :Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered Thursday on a visit to Kyiv to hold a Ukraine-Russia summit, as EU leaders stepped up outreach to the Kremlin to defuse fears Moscow could invade.

The diplomatic offensive came as Russia accused the United States of ratcheting up "tensions" by sending 1,000 soldiers to Romania and 2,000 to Poland to bolster NATO's eastern flank.

As Moscow refuses to pull back over 100,000 troops from Ukraine's borders, the leaders of European powerhouses Germany and France said they were eyeing possible visits to Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

French President Emmanuel Macron was set to hold his third phone call in a week with Putin later on Thursday and also talk to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Western powers have been engaged in intense diplomatic efforts -- coupled with the threat of sanctions against Putin's inner circle -- to deter any further attack on ex-Soviet Ukraine, despite strenuous denials from Moscow.

Erdogan, who is pursuing his own diplomatic track, reaffirmed at a meeting with Zelensky his offer to host a peace summit with Putin.

The Turkish leader is looking to leverage his special relations with Putin and strong support for Kyiv to set up a peace talks.

Zelensky thanked him for the efforts and insisted he was "ready to do everything possible in all platforms and in all formats" to bring peace to Ukraine.

But Erdogan's push for a sit-down has so far been stymied by Kremlin anger over NATO member Turkey's supply of combat drones to Kyiv -- and the two sides on Thursday inked a fresh deal aimed at expanding drone production in Ukraine.

- 'Destructive steps' - Amid the diplomatic flurry, Washington angered Moscow by announcing the new troop deployments to two of NATO's eastern members.

"As long as (President Vladimir Putin) is acting aggressively, we are going to make sure we reassure our NATO allies in eastern Europe that we're there," President Joe Biden said on Wednesday.

The Kremlin urged the US to "stop escalating tensions" after Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko warned the "destructive" move would make it harder for a compromise between the two sides.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby stressed the US troop movements were to demonstrate commitment to the NATO alliance, and that no US soldiers would be sent to fight in Ukraine.

But that is unlikely to assuage Putin, who has accused the United States and NATO of seeking to "contain" Russia by placing troops and strategic arms on its border.

Putin has demanded guarantees that Ukraine will not join NATO and has implicitly threatened the former Soviet state with the massive military build-up.

Russia also wants NATO and the United States to foreswear the deployment of missile systems near Russia's borders and to pull back NATO forces in eastern Europe.

Putin has left the door open to talks, saying he was studying Western proposals set out last month in response to Russia's demands, and that he hoped for a "solution".

But in a call with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday, he noted "the unwillingness of NATO to adequately respond to the well-founded Russian concerns".

The Kremlin also claimed it had China's support in the standoff -- backing that would be demonstrated when Putin meets President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Friday at the opening of the Olympics.

- 'Low' threat level - While the United States and Britain have sounded the most strident warnings over a potential Russian attack, there are divisions over how likely it may be.

Kyiv has warned against "panic" as it seeks to protect its economy and some European allies are far more guarded over the prospect of looming war.

Ukraine's Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov insisted Thursday that "the probability of a significant escalation as of today is considered low" as Kyiv had not seen Moscow move "strike groups" to the border.

In a change of language, the White House said Wednesday that it would no longer refer to a Russian invasion of Ukraine as "imminent" -- explaining that the word implied Putin had already made a decision to attack.

But tensions have been aggravated by plans for joint military exercises between Russia and neighbouring Belarus, where Washington claims Moscow is preparing to send 30,000 troops.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu held talks with strongman leader Alexander Lukashenko and troop inspections ahead of the joint drills later this month.

Moscow seized the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine in 2014 and has fuelled a simmering separatist conflict in the east of the country since then that has cost over 13,000 lives.

The Norwegian Refugee Council humanitarian organisation warned that any escalation in the conflict risked displacing up to two million people along the front line.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Three more persons were arrested by the Delhi Police on Thursday in connection with the firing incident that took place in Angoori Bagh near the Red Fort on Monday night.

A senior police officer said that the accused have been identified as Mohammed Kaif, Mohammed Shoaib alias Shubhi, and Mohammed Kaif.

With this, the number of arrests made in the case went up to six. Three men were injured after they were shot at by a group during the incident which resulted from a road rage.

"Three persons -- Abid, Aman and Difaraz -- had suffered bullet injuries in the incident. They are still undergoing treatment," said an officer.

The incident happened on Monday night when Mohammed Shahid, who deals in motor parts, was returning home with his wife on his two-wheeler. When he reached the Angoori Bagh area, his vehicle brushed another two-wheeler with two persons on it.

After a heated argument between the two sides, the locals gathered at the scene. Meanwhile, the two men called their family members. Soon the brother of one of the accused reached the spot along with his friends.

The local people tried to intervene, but the persons who came with the brother of the bikers opened fire at the public. Around five rounds were fired, which left three injured.

Three persons -- Shahbaz, Shadab and Shahzada Farid -- were arrested earlier in connection with the case.

Further probe in the matter is on.
AMMAN, Jordan  With a big aid package granted by the Trump administration about to expire, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi has traveled to Washington seeking a new and improved deal.

Why it matters: Jordan is struggling with an economic crisis and is dependent on U.S. financial assistance, which totaled $1.65 billion in 2021. A five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) that guarantees at least $1.25 billion in annual U.S. aid expires in September.

Driving the news: Safadi's agenda this week includes a meeting with Secretary of State Tony Blinken on Thursday and several meetings with officials whose portfolios cover security, foreign aid, energy and refugee issues. He'll also meet with members of Congress, think tank experts and American Jewish leaders.

The Jordanian Foreign Ministry said Safadi would discuss the Palestinian issue and efforts to reach a political solution to the Syrian crisis, while also working toward a new MOU.

What they're saying: Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment and former Middle East negotiator in multiple U.S. administrations, said that in a volatile region where at least four Arab states are in varying states of dysfunction, Jordan  despite its economic and political problems  represents a stable and important partner for the United States.
THE BOOK OF THE MOST PRECIOUS SUBSTANCE, by Sara Gran. (Dreamland, paper, $18.95.) In this sensational occult thriller, the rare-book dealer Lily Albrecht is swept into a hunt for a dangerous and powerful treasure: a copy of the most precise and most effective grimoire of sex magic ever written. Along the way, she and the hunky librarian helping her search begin to fall under the books spell. Grans writing, like the grimoire, is palpably seductive, Danielle Trussoni writes in her latest horror column. The search for pleasure and magic is an aphrodisiac, one that pulses on the page. Grans plotting is hairpin in its curvature, her descriptions of desire sexy and subtle. Like Lily Albrecht, readers have little choice but to follow the book to its sinister conclusion.

RECITATIF: A Story, by Toni Morrison. (Knopf, $16.) The Nobel laureates sole short story, published in 1983 and only now being released in book form, depicts an interracial friendship between two girls  one white, one Black  who meet in a shelter. In the story, we encounter the girls over many years, but Morrison never identifies eithers race. Absence is Morrisons central point; once racial markers are stripped from the girls, each reader of Recitatif will experience the story in a purely subjective fashion, Honoree Fanonne Jeffers writes in her review. Morrison was among the first to depict Black culture while also considering politics, while also considering United States history, while also considering white supremacy, while also considering economic class, while also considering gender, while also considering intergenerational trauma.  And she did that decades ago, so its not her fault that we havent learned simultaneity.

THE BOOK OF ALL BOOKS, by Roberto Calasso. Translated by Tim Parks. (Farrar, Straus & Giroux, $35.) In one of his last works, the great Italian polymath (who died in July) offers a close read of the Bible by retelling a number of its stories  a method that pays dividends in part because his selection is cunning and his narrative gifts considerable. But the principal interest of The Book of All Books lies not in its fictional embellishments but in the stories themselves, Stephen Greenblatt writes in his review. I think of myself as reasonably familiar with the Bible, and yet I found myself checking again and again to be sure that Calasso was not making it all up.

LOST & FOUND: A Memoir, by Kathryn Schulz. (Random House, $27.) In this eloquent and wise memoir of her fathers death and her own marriage, Schulz explores the confluence of loss and love, with detours into literature inspired by each. She writes that she tends to hope against hope for more hope, and her optimism shines on the page. Grief and love  and the profound transformations they put into motion  dont belong only to the traumatized, tragic, marginalized or maligned, Robin Romm writes in her review. They are universal, indiscriminate in their ability to alter perspective, introduce awe or wonder. And so, they are of universal interest.
The top cop for the central Mexican state of Aguascalientes has been arrested on torture charges.

Federal agents apprehended Porfirio Javier Sanchez on Wednesday and he is scheduled to appear before a judge Thursday in Mexico City.

Sanchez is accused of torture, abuse of authority, and lying in judicial statements and reports that were filed with law enforcement agencies.

Mexican newspaper Milenio reported that Sanchez had been under investigation since 2016 after the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights filed a report on behalf of Erick Razo Casales and Veronica Razo Casales, siblings who were tortured by Sanchez and another individual.

They were arrested by officers with the defunct Federal Police in Mexico City on June 9, 2011 and taken to a Federal Police station where Erick and Veronica were there were subjected to physical, psychological and sexual torture.

Both were forced to sign false statements in which they admitted to belonging to a kidnapping gang and said that were aware of two people who had been involved in two abductions.

Sanchez served as director of the Federal Police's special operations division and coordinated tactical cases at the time of the purported allegations.

Security chief Porfirio Javier Sanchez was arrested Wednesday in Aguascalientes, Mexico and is facing charges of torture, abuse of authority and providing false statements to authorities

Erick Razo Casales (left) and Veronica Razo Casales (right) were reportedly tortured in June 2011 after the were arrested in Mexico City. Aguascalientes state security chief Porfirio Javier Sanchez, who at the time was director of the defunct Federal Police's special operations division and coordinated tactical cases at the time of the purported allegations

The administration of Aguascalientes Governor Martin Orozco said in a statement that it 'is willing to collaborate in everything that is necessary with the corresponding instances of the federal government.'

The state government, which is ruled by the PAN opposition party, added that it has been informed by federal authorities of Sanchez's arrest and 'that everything necessary to collaborate has been made available.'

The attorney general's office gave no detail about the torture charges.

Sanchez has served as Aguascalientes' secretary of security since 2018. He started his law enforcement career in 1999 with the Federal Investigation Agency. He then became chief of the investigation division with the attorney general's office in 2002 and continued to ascend through the law enforcement ranks.

Porfirio Javier Sanchez (right) had served as the security chief for the central state of Aguascalientes since 2018

Genaro Garcia Luna (photographed September 3, 2009) was arrested in December 9, 2019 in Texas and charged with four counts of cocaine trafficking conspiracy, one count of engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise and one count of making false statements.

Sanchez also has ties to Mexico's former Security Chief Genaro Garcia Luna, who was arrested in on December 9, 2019 in Dallas, Texas, is in detention in New York where he is facing charges linked to a multi-million-dollar bribery scheme allegedly designed to benefit Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman's Sinaloa Cartel.

As the nation's top cop under former President Felipe Calderon from 2006 to 2012, Garcia Luna led the start of the government's war against drug cartels.

Garcia Luna's name came up during at El Chapo's trial when Jesus Zambada, the son of the jailed drug kingpin's partner Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada, testified that he had given the former official a suitcase with $3 million in 2005 or 2006, and paid him another $3 million to $5 million in 2007.
ISLAMABAD, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Altogether 13 terrorists and seven soldiers were killed in attacks on two camps of paramilitary troops Frontier Corps in the country's southwestern Balochistan province, an army statement said on Thursday.

Pakistani security forces repulsed both attacks that happened in Panjgur and Noshki districts of Balochistan late Wednesday night, initially killing four terrorists and one soldier, according to the military's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

After repulsing the attacks, security forces carried out clearance operations to hunt down terrorists hiding in the areas, the ISPR said in a statement.

"In Noshki, security forces encountered and killed five more terrorists," the ISPR statement said, adding that four soldiers including an officer were also killed.

Separately, four terrorists have been killed and at least five were encircled by the security forces in Panjgur district as security forces' operation is still ongoing.

During intense fighting, three soldiers, including one announced in the initial statement, were killed while four others sustained injuries, the statement said.

Earlier on Wednesday, the proscribed organization Baloch Liberation Army claimed the attacks in a statement widely circulating on social media. 
A masked attendee walks past anti-vaccine mandate protesters as they gather during a Portland Public Schools board meeting to discuss a proposed vaccine mandate for students in Portland, Ore., on Oct. 26, 2021. (Nathan Howard/Getty Images)

Oregons Newly Imposed Permanent School Mask Mandate Draws Criticism

Even as nations around the world are easing their pandemic restrictions, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) on Jan. 28 adopted a permanent school mask mandate.

Since returning to in-person instruction last year, Oregon students have been required to wear masks at school except for removing them briefly when eating or during outdoor sports. That requirement was temporary, though, and expired after 180 days. The state adopted the permanent mandate in place of that temporary measure.

Masks will now be required in school settings until the rules are repealed.

As for when that might be, Oregon education officials say it depends on the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The virus sets the timeline, wrote the Oregon Department of Educations Ready Schools, Safe Learners Resilience Manager Kati Moseley in a message to superintendents and school leaders on Jan. 28.

OHA can rescind the masking requirements if it believes the rule or parts of the rule are no longer necessary to control COVID-19, wrote OHA officials in response to concerns about what metrics might trigger a repeal.

Any person who violates the proposed rule will be subject to civil penalties of up to a $500 fine per day per violation.

The OHA action was taken despite vehement opposition expressed by more than 350 people during virtual hearings last week.

Not one person in the hearings supported making the mandate permanent, Lane County Commissioner Jay Bozievich told The Epoch Times.

The Alsea School District in rural western Oregon is refusing to comply.

Effective Jan. 31, it made mask-wearing optionalgiving parents and teachers the freedom to decide whether a child should wear a mask except on school buses.

OHA responded by threatening to withhold pandemic relief funds for the district that serves about 1,000 students in K-12. And in a letter obtained by The Epoch Times, the Oregon Department of Education threatened the licensure of teachers and the accreditation of School District Superintendent Marc Thielman.

But Thielman says he is just following the science.

OHA said that masking is effective at slowing the spread of Omicron when all the scientific studies say that its not, Thielman told The Epoch Times. When Samaritan Health Services in Oregon said that cloth and paper masks are no longer allowed in their facilities because of their low efficacy, we believed them. Theyre the experts.

In a Jan. 31 letter to Oregon Department of Education Director Colt Gill, Thielman explained that even the packaging that paper masks arrived in featured a disclaimer stating Not Effective Against Viruses.

He also said that his district was recently closed due to a COVID-19 outbreak that spread while everyone was still wearing masks at school.

Given the harm that long-term masking does to our students, which has been acknowledged by the CDC, and the groundswell of scientific evidence and peer-reviewed studies about the efficacy of paper masks at controlling this virus, I believe that masks should be optional, Thielman stated.

Our School Board agreed and unanimously said were going to allow parents and teachers to decide whether they want a child to be masked, not OHA who doesnt know that child, he said.

Although health experts now believe that the masks that provide the best protection

against Omicron are N95 or KN95 masks, kids wont wear them and you cant teach with them on, Thielman said.

One other district in Oregon, the Adrian School District, previously lifted mask mandates despite the state rules.

After being handed four violations and a fine of more than $11,000, the district was forced back into compliance.

But Thielman, a Republican candidate for governor, says his district will not back down.

They might withhold $275,000, but thats a fraction of our budget, he explained. We knew they might do this, but weve made a lot of revenue over the past two years, so were fine,

He said that enrollment has skyrocketed as the district continued to offer in-person instruction through the pandemic.

Thielman said a few parents have objected to the districts change in policy and one student has been pulled from school.

But we have a waiting list of 75 students, he said.

Also pushing back against the mandate are members of the Oregon Moms Union (OMU), a grassroots political action committee comprised mostly of moms representing school districts around the state.

There were several hours of testimony and thousands and thousands of emails sent by parents, asking them not to make this rule permanent, MacKensey Pulliam, co-founder of OMU and wife of Republican candidate for governor Stan Pulliam wrote on the groups Facebook page.

I think a lot of parents just feel really unheard right now, she said.

Within 24 hours of the permanent mask mandate announcement, members of OMU had sent more than 1,100 public comments to OHA, according to a statement by the groups Facebook administrator.
BALLSTON SPA  A Vermont woman was sentenced on Wednesday to 5 days in jail and 5 years of probation for hiding crack cocaine in a diaper bag.

Artiqua J. DuBois, 29, of Burlington, was pulled over by state police in Wilton on Aug. 18, 2020, for a traffic infraction. The trooper observed signs of drug use. A search of the vehicle found about 60 grams of crack in the diaper bag of a 2-year-old child in the back seat.
Spain on Thursday said it would help Morocco ensure its energy security by allowing it to transport supplies through the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline (GME) following a supply crisis with Algeria

Madrid, Feb 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Feb, 2022 ) :Spain on Thursday said it would help Morocco ensure its energy security by allowing it to transport supplies through the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline (GME) following a supply crisis with Algeria.

"Morocco has asked for support to guarantee its energy security on the basis of trade relations and Spain has responded positively as it would do with any other friend or neighbour," Spain's ecological transition ministry said in a statement.

"Morocco will be able to obtain liquefied natural gas (LNG) on the international markets, bring it to a regasification plant on the (Spanish) mainland and use the GME pipeline to transport it to its territory," it said, without giving a date nor outlining the volumes concerned.

The announcement came three months after Algeria said it would not renew an expiring 25-year deal to use the pipeline through which it had transported gas to Spain via Morocco.

Algeria, Africa's biggest gas exporter, had used the GME since 1996 to export some 10 billion cubic metres of gas per year to Spain and onwards to Portugal.

In return, Morocco had received around a billion cubic metres of gas per year as transit fees, covering around 97 percent of its needs.

Ending the contract directly affected Rabat's energy supplies at a time when global gas prices have peaked.

The contract ended as tensions peaked between the North African neighbours following Morocco's renewal of diplomatic ties with Israel and Washington's recognition of the kingdom's sovereignty over disputed Western Sahara.

- The politics of supply - Morocco sees the former Spanish colony as its own sovereign territory while Algeria has long supported Western Sahara's Polisario Front, which seeks full independence for the territory.

Algiers cut all diplomatic ties with Rabat in August.

Madrid's decision to help Morocco was a gesture aimed at de-escalating tensions between the two nations that began in April when Spain allowed the Polisario Front's leader to be treated at a Spanish hospital when he was very ill with Covid.

That decision sparked a tetchy stand-off with Morocco. A month later, some 10,000 migrants surged into Spain's Ceuta enclave as Moroccan border forces looked the other way in what was widely seen as a punitive move by Rabat.

At the end of November, Rabat signed a 10-year deal with Sound Energy to receive gas supplies from a concession the British firm holds in eastern Morocco.

Spain will continue to receive its gas from Algeria, its main supplier, via the Medgaz pipeline that runs directly between the two countries under the Mediterranean.

Algiers has pledged to increase the pipeline's capacity to compensate for the closure of the GME.
Polish President Andrzej Duda on Thursday announced a draft bill to scrap the "disciplinary chamber" of the Supreme Court -- a newly created body at the heart of a row with the European Union

Warsaw, Feb 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Feb, 2022 ) :Polish President Andrzej Duda on Thursday announced a draft bill to scrap the "disciplinary chamber" of the Supreme Court -- a newly created body at the heart of a row with the European Union.

Duda said he hoped the change, which still needs to be approved by the Polish parliament, would end the dispute with Brussels.

"I propose that this chamber be liquidated," he said.

Under the draft, the judges currently in the chamber would have the option of moving to another Supreme Court chamber or retire.

The chamber would be replaced by a different body called the "Chamber of Professional Responsibility" with 11 judges.

"I want to give the Polish government a path to ending the dispute with the European Commission," Duda said.

The disciplinary chamber was part of a Polish judicial overhaul that the European Union perceived as backsliding on democratic standards, by attacking judges' independence.

Poland's populist, nationalist government insisted it was necessary to root out corruption in the judiciary and the legacy of judges appointed under Communist rule.

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) last October imposed a daily one-million-euro fine on Poland for ignoring a court order to suspend the disciplinary chamber, which Warsaw has refused to pay.

On Thursday, critics were quick to dismiss Duda's proposals.

"This bill is just an attempt to get EU money via a bogus rebranding attempt while continuing to violate ECJ rulings," Laurent Pech, professor of European law at Middlesex University in Britain, said on Twitter.

The European Commission last month asked Poland to pay nearly 70 million Euros ($79 million) in fines accrued so far and Brussels has threatened to start deducting the money from EU funds earmarked for Warsaw.

"We will have to wait and see what exactly is proposed," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer told reporters in Brussels when asked about Duda's announcement.

Christian Wigand, another European Commission spokesman, said the fines would apply "until Poland fully complies with the order of the court".

"It remains for Poland to fully and urgently comply," he said.
If "Sesame Street Live!" had a shape of the day on Feb. 19, it would be full circle.

Nearly two years since the production was shut down along with the rest of the performing world due to the COVID-19 pandemic following a run at Madison Square Garden's Hulu Theatre, it's set to resume touring with a stop at the very same venue.

"Sesame Street Live! Let's Party!" will bring Elmo, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch, Big Bird and more to a theater near you as they sing and dance their way to a perfect fete, including favorite songs like "C Is For Cookie" and "I Love Trash."

"Sesame Street Live! Lets Party!" features "Sesame Street" pals including Elmo, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird, Rosita and more.

Being Elmo

Cameron Gonzalez, who plays Elmo, says he can't wait to step back into the world of "Sesame Street."

"It's been really big for me and really heartwarming. I feel like it's been a part of me that's been missing and I'm really excited to get back to it," he said.

Cameron Gonzalez plays Elmo in "Sesame Street Live! Let's Party!"

He compares the reception from kids to a rock concert.

"Sometimes it's crazy because there'll be a baby mosh pit right in front of you. And parents are like, 'You know what, this is their Beyonce.' So it really is an incredible energy to see kids jumping up and down getting excited because Elmo is waving at them, or Abby is doing a magic spell or they're hearing a song that they've heard 1,000 times on 'Sesame Street,' and they're just yelling and singing along."

Sightlines: Shore barbershop group offers singing Valentines, off-Broadway 2-for-1 tickets

That's not to say it's always easy being red.

"I know how much Elmo means to everyone. It feels sometimes like a big responsibility because just knowing kids' connection to this little 3-year-old red monster is very palpable," said Gonzalez, who grew up in Pensacola, Fla., and worked for Disney World before joining "Sesame Street."

"Sesame Street Live! Lets Party!" features "Sesame Street" pals including Elmo, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird, Rosita and more.

He says the first time he stepped onstage as Elmo was nerve-wracking. He streamed untold hours of "Sesame Street" to prepare on top of rehearsals, but was nervous.

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"As soon as I stepped out and heard the applause and the cheer it just felt like 'Okay, you're home. You know what you're doing. ... Let's have fun."

So how exactly does one portray Elmo?

"It really is reminding yourself that Elmo is a 3-year-old," he said. "So at heart, he is still learning about the world, still learning about concepts. So it really is taking everything in, experiencing a lot of things for the first time. And looking at that through excited eyes, through fun eyes. Leading with your heart rather than your mind like adults typically do. Just being excited about the world and seeing the good in everything and the innocence in everything."

Connection to the Shore

During the interactive, sensory Feld Entertainment, Inc. production, audiences are invited to dance with Elmo, explore a wintry wonderland when Abby Cadabbys magic goes awry, take flight with Big Bird to learn about some of his feathered friends, and discover new cultures in an interactive Spanish lesson with Rosita, alongside live emcees Casey and Caleb.

Ashley Budinick, a Shore native, is performance director for "Sesame Street Live! Let's Party!"

Ashley Budinick, a Brick native, is the performance director for "Let's Party!"

She watches each show to take notes on production and performance.

"I also re-teach the show to each of our new cast members that come in every year. So it's a really awesome and rewarding job because you get to see people start from the beginning and then really build their role, ... really make all of these iconic 'Sesame Street' characters come to life."

More: Shore dancer living her childhood dream as Radio City Music Hall Rockette

Budinick joined the show four years ago as a dancer, and then dance captain. She graduated from Brick Memorial High School in 2007 and then attended the University Of the Arts in Philadelphia before working professionally in New York and California. She was part of Netflix's "A Week Away," which premiered in 2021.

She loves being part of a show that attracts kids and families.

"Honestly, at the end of the day, I always believe children are your best audience because they just get so excited and they're so full of life," she said.

Let's Party!

"Sesame Street Live! Let's Party!" hits the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden for 13 performances from Feb. 19 to 27, and the State Theatre in New Brunswick for five performances March 3 and 4.

More: Shore's own Buzz Lightyear flys into NJ with Disney on Ice

The tour then heads up to Albany on March 5 and 6, then to State College and Allentown, Pa., in mid-March, and the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia from April 8 to 10.

Tickets for New York City and New Brunswick start at $15. Visit sesamestreetlive.com for more information.

Ilana Keller is an award-winning journalist and lifelong New Jersey resident who loves Broadway and really bad puns. She highlights arts advocacy and education, theater fundraisers and more through her column, "Sightlines." Reach out on Twitter: @ilanakeller; ikeller@gannettnj.com

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: 'Sesame Street Live' is back in NYC and New Jersey
A British-made Mosquito fighter-bomber, used by the Royal Air Force, will be showcased at a new aviation museum set to open this spring in Kelowna. Plans are to also fly the rare plane on occasion.
MIAMI, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Virgin Hotels, the lifestyle hotel brand by Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson, has announced its historic expansion into the United Kingdom this spring with Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, followed by Virgin Hotels Glasgow. The portfolio continues to grow stateside, with the opening of Virgin Hotels New York scheduled for late summer of 2022. Leading the charge is Virgin Hotels' Chief Executive Officer, James Bermingham, and his shining executive team.

"Expanding into the United Kingdom is a major and much-anticipated milestone for Virgin Hotels. Our two new hotels in Scotland blend their distinctive personalities with the vibrant, playful, and personalized touch unmistakably Virgin. We couldn't be more thrilled to call the beloved cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow home to our first locations outside the United States," comments Virgin Hotels Chief Executive Officer James Bermingham. "And with our first New York City hotel following shortly after, Virgin Hotels is poised for a busy year of growth and elevation  and it's only the start."

Virgin Hotels is poised for a busy year of growth and elevation. Tweet this

This spring, the hotel group will welcome two Scotland hotels  Virgin Hotels Edinburgh and Virgin Hotels Glasgow  to its portfolio. Virgin Hotels Edinburgh will be in the landmark India Buildings, originally built in 1864, in Edinburgh's Old Town near The Royal Mile. The hotel promises a stunning mix of its 19th-century origins and modern luxuries to capture the timeless character of Edinburgh. In re-envisioning the building, the design team has diligently preserved its notable elements while adding a defined style and sophistication. The new hotel will feature 222 Chambers and Grand Chamber Suites along with multiple dining and drinking outlets, including Commons Club, Virgin hotel's iconic cultural hub.

Virgin Hotels Glasgow will open in late spring as the brand's second Scottish hotel. The property will sit on Clyde Street, a prime City Centre position known for its defining arts and music scene. The hotel  which boasts panoramic views of the River Clyde  will feature 240 Chambers and Grand Chamber Suites and various restaurant and bar venues, including Virgin Hotels' signature Funny Library Coffee Shop, complete with an assortment of whimsical and funny books and games.

The brand will grow its presence in the U.S. and continue the momentum with a newly built hotel in New York City. Virgin Hotels New York claims stake at 1227 Broadway in Manhattan's NoMad neighborhood. The 38-floor hotel will boast 463 Chambers and several concept suites, a rooftop pool and bar, numerous dining spaces, and two floors of luxury retailers. In addition, the property is working with an NYC-based design firm, MARKZEFF Design, to bring the heart and soul of the city into the decor elements of the hotel's signature venues, Commons Club Funny Library Coffee Shop, and The Pool Club.

The brand has five hotels that have opened in the United States, including Virgin Hotels Chicago, Virgin Hotels Dallas, and Virgin Hotels Nashville. It most recently celebrated the opening of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas in March 2021 and followed with the introduction of Virgin Hotels New Orleans in August.

Virgin Hotels are contemporary by design yet grounded in the community their located, welcoming all with a thoughtful approach that is comfortable yet playful. Each new hotel is individually designed in collaboration with local designers to ensure each tells the story of Its locale through neighborhood-centric Influences. The results offer all its visitors heartfelt service and a personalized hotel experience.

To learn more about Virgin Hotels, please visit www.virginhotels.com. For future developments, please visit https://development.virginhotels.com. Follow Virgin Hotels on Twitter and Instagram - @virginhotels.

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About Virgin Hotels:

Virgin Hotels is a lifestyle hospitality brand that combines heartfelt service, straightforward value, and a seamless, personalized hotel experience with the track record of innovation and smart disruption that Sir Richard Branson's global Virgin Group has pioneered for over 50 years. Each property intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture, fusing with the local landscape and providing a vibrant and inclusive environment for travelers and locals alike. Virgin Hotels Chicago - named the "No. 1 Hotel in the United States" in 2016 and "No. 7 Hotel in Chicago" in 2021 by the Conde Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards - Virgin Hotels Dallas - named the "No. 5 Hotel in Texas" - Virgin Hotels Nashville  voted the No. 2 in Nashville, Virgin Hotels New Orleans and Virgin Hotels Las Vegas are now open. Locations in New York, Miami, Edinburgh and Glasgow to follow. Virgin Hotels continues to explore hotel and office conversions and ground-up development in Boston, Los Angeles, Austin, Seattle, London and more.

SOURCE Virgin Hotels
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and his Polish counterpart, Mateusz Morawiecki, have signed an agreement on resolving the dispute over operation of Poland's Turow mine, located on the border with the Czech Republic, Fiala said on Thursday

PRAGUE (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd February, 2022) Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and his Polish counterpart, Mateusz Morawiecki, have signed an agreement on resolving the dispute over operation of Poland's Turow mine, located on the border with the Czech Republic, Fiala said on Thursday.

Earlier in the day, the prime ministers met in Prague to discuss various issues of bilateral cooperation and ways to resolve the long-standing dispute over the Turow mine.

"Mr. Morawiecki and I have just signed an intergovernmental agreement on conditions for the operation of Poland's Turow coal mine. We managed to find a compromise agreeable to both parties and thereby remove a heavy stone hindering the development of friendly Czech-Polish relations," Fiala said at a press conference following the meeting.

In turn, Morawiecki noted the Czech authorities had promised to withdraw the country's complaint over the mine from the European Union court.

"I hope, I am sure that the Czech Republic will withdraw its complaint from the EU Court of Justice in Luxembourg today or tomorrow in accordance with our agreement, and this problem will cease to exist," Morawiecki said.

In addition, he also expressed confidence that the problem of the fine imposed on Poland would disappear along with the withdrawal of the complaint.

The Czech Republic filed a complaint over the Polish coal mine with the EU court in May, 2021, saying that the mining works affects the quality of water in Czech regions across the border from the mine. The court ordered Poland to immediately stop the mining, but Morawiecki refused to comply. In September, 2021, the EU court ruled that Poland pay 500,000 Euros ($585,000) every day until the coal mine stops operating.
Sacked breakfast radio host Lawrence Mooney fears Triple M could 'smear' him with unfounded allegations when it attempts to justify his sudden termination.

The broadcaster is demanding more than $1million over his unceremonious departure from the radio station which is owned by Southern Cross Austereo Pty Ltd.

Mooney has taken Southern Cross Austereo to the New South Wales Supreme Court where lawyers representing both sides made a brief appearance on Thursday.

Employment specialist John Laxon, for Mooney, described the case as a 'very straight forward breach of contract claim'.

Sacked radio host Lawrence Mooney is demanding more than $1million over his unceremonious departure from his Triple M breakfast program

Mooney (middle) started with Triple M in 2019 to host the Moonman in the Morning program with co-presenters Jess Eva (left) and Chris Page (right)

Both sides had agreed to enter mediation but Mr Laxon said Southern Cross Austereo had been 44 days late filing a defence.

'We are somewhat in the dark because we don't have their defence,' Mr Laxon said.

'In anticipation of what that defence might be and the allegations that might be forthcoming from the defendant [in the absence of] any evidence to back up those allegations then what we might be left with is smear.'

Mooney was dumped from his breakfast radio gig on November 12 and is suing Southern Cross Austereo for more than $1million in unpaid wages.

The comedian started with Triple M in 2019 hosting the Moonman in the Morning program with co-presenters Gus Worland, Jess Eva and Chris Page.

Worland left the program, which had replaced The Grill Team, in November that year.

Mooney was abruptly dumped less than a year into a new two-year contract with little explanation after a wild few days of speculation.

Lawrence Mooney (pictured right) reportedly had a major falling out with co-host Jess Eva (pictured left) before he was sacked by Triple M

Mooney's exit came two weeks after he suddenly vanished from the airwaves amid rumours of a major falling out with co-host Eva, who starred in the 2018 season of The Block.

'SCA thanks Mooney for his contribution to the Triple M Network over the past five years,' SCA said in a brief statement on November 15.

The program changed its name to Triple M Breakfast with MG, Jess & Pagey, with new lead host Mark 'MG' Geyer.

When contacted by Daily Mail Australia on the day of his sacking, Mooney said, 'Please don't call again,' then hung up the phone.

Two months later he is demanding his former employer pay him a year's salary in damages, according to a statement of claim seen by Daily Mail Australia.

Court documents claim Mooney had a two-year contract to run from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022, and his pay was a base fee of $1million plus GST per annum, which is $83,333 plus GST a month.

Lawrence Mooney's (pictured) case against his former employer began in the NSW Supreme Court on Thursday

Mooney, 56, was also eligible to bonus fees of up to $540,000 plus GST annually if the show reached certain audience share targets.

A share of 6.0-6.4 per cent would be worth $5,000, 6.5-7.0 per cent $7,000, 7.0-7.4 per cent $10,000, 7.5-7.9 per cent $20,000, 8.0-8.4 per cent $25,000 and 8.5 per cent or more $30,000 for each survey.

If the show ever got to 9.0 per cent off all listeners aged 10 and above Mooney would receive $150,000 for the first time and $50,000 for each subsequent survey that was over that share.

There would also be a $5,000 incentive fee for reaching number one in the male 25-54 category, capped at $40,000 a year.

In the last radio ratings survey of 2021 Mooney's show had an audience share of 4.6.

There were eight surveys in 2021 and in two of them the program recorded an audience share above 6.0 - 6.4 in the first survey of the year and 6.7 in the second.

Moonman in the Morning has changed itss name to Triple M Breakfast with MG, Jess & Pagey, with new lead host Mark 'MG' Geyer (pictured)

The court documents claim SCA chief executive Grant Blackley advised Mooney in a letter dated November 12, 2021, that the company would only pay Mooney's base salary up to and including that day.

'At no time during the term of the contract did Mooney commit any act that would entitle SCA to terminate and/or that could be relied upon by SCA as at the date of the purported termination to terminate,' Mooney's lawyers claimed.

Mooney is claiming the loss of his base fee from December 1, 2021 to December 21, 2022 totalling $1,083,333.29 plus GST. He is further claiming the loss of the chance to earn incentive fees.

The documents also claimed there was 'loss of goodwill by reason of Mooney no longer providing the on-air radio performing and announcing services'.

Mr Laxon has previously said he was waiting with 'bated breath' for Southern Cross Austereo's defence, which was due by December 20.
The US unveiled the intelligence as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered to mediate talks between Russia and Ukraine and NATO warned that Moscows military buildup continues, with more troops and military equipment deployed to neighbouring Belarus than at any time in the last 30 years. Erdogan, who has close but sometimes difficult ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, said on Friday AEDT that Turkey was prepared to undertake its part in order to end the crisis between two friendly nations that are its neighbours in the Black Sea. I have stressed that we would be happy to host a summit meeting at a leadership level or technical level talks, Erdogan said after about three hours of talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Instead of fuelling the fire, we act with the logical aim of reducing the tensions. Russia has amassed more than 100,000 troops near Ukraines northern and eastern borders, raising concern that Moscow might invade again, as it did in 2014. The troop presence and uncertainty have unnerved Ukrainians and hurt the countrys economy. Russian officials deny that an invasion is planned. Russian Presisdent Vladimir Putin pushed for NATO wirthdrawl in his virtual summit with US President Joe Biden earlier in December. Credit:Pool Sputnick Kremlin

Erdogan underlined Turkeys commitment to Ukraines territorial integrity and sovereignty. Turkey and Ukraine also signed eight agreements during the meeting, including a free trade pact, according to Turkeys state-run Anadolu Agency. Zelensky welcomed Erdogans offer and thanked him for his firm and consistent support. The crisis has put Turkey in a fix, leaving it in a position where it has to balance its growing partnership with Ukraine with its difficult relations with Moscow. Ankara, which has historic ties to Ukraine and ethnic bonds with its Crimean Tatar community, strongly opposed Russias 2014 annexation of Crimea. Recently, it sold armed drones to Ukraine, which were used against pro-Russia separatists in the Donbas region, a move that angered Moscow. At the same time, Turkey would be reluctant to joint in any sanctions against Russia. With a struggling economy, the country has pinned its hopes on tourism revenue, especially from visitors from Russia. It also relies on Russia for much of its natural gas needs.

Loading At NATO headquarters earlier, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned that Russian troop numbers in Belarus are likely to climb to 30,000, with the backing of special forces, advanced fighter jets, Iskander short-range ballistic missiles and S-400 ground-to-air missile defence systems. Over the last days, we have seen a significant movement of Russian military forces into Belarus. This is the biggest Russian deployment there since the Cold War, Stoltenberg told reporters. Russia and China The US State Department warned Russia on Thursday that a closer relationship between Moscow and Beijing would not make up for the consequences of a Russian invasion of Ukraine and only make the Russian economy more brittle.

State Department spokesman Ned Price also told a regular news briefing the United States has an array tools it can deploy if it sees foreign companies, including those in China, trying to evade US export control actions over Ukraine. Price spoke after Chinas Foreign Ministry said China and Russia coordinated their positions on Ukraine during a meeting between both countries foreign ministers in Beijing on Thursday. If Russia thinks that it will be in a position ... to mitigate some of those consequences, by a closer relationship with (China). That is not the case. It will actually make the Russian economy in many ways, more brittle, he said. If you deny yourself the ability to transact with the West, to import with the West, from Europe, from the United States, you are going to significantly degrade your productive capacity and your innovative potential. Restrictions on Belarusians

Loading The United States on Thursday said it was imposing visa restrictions on several Belarusians, citing the repression of athletes abroad including the attempted forced repatriation of a sprinter at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Krystsina Tsimanouskaya refused to board a flight back home last year when she was removed from the games against her will after publicly complaining about national team coaches. She defected to Poland, saying she feared for her safety if she returned to Belarus. Thursdays move relates to involvement in serious, extraterritorial counter-dissident activity but the State Department statement did not detail who was being targeted with the new visa limits.

Last May a Ryanair plane was also forced to land last May in the Belarusian capital Minsk when controllers cited a bomb threat. Once it was on the ground, a Belarusian dissident journalist on board the plane was arrested along with his female companion. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu was in Minsk on Thursday, checking on preparations for major Russia-Belarus war games scheduled for February 10 to February 20. Shoigu met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Speaking about the drills, Lukashenko said the goal was to reinforce the border with Ukraine. AP
ALLENTOWN, Pa. -- An organization aimed at helping school children has received a generous donation from a foundation that has, so far, donated billions.

Communities in Schools of Eastern Pennsylvania said it received $3.3 million from the Mackenzie Scott Foundation, a foundation started by the author and former wife of Amazon CEO, Jeff Bezos.

CISEasternPA currently serves 37,000 students in 40 schools across 10 districts, including in the Lehigh Valley and Berks County.

Communities In Schools national office (CIS) was notified of a $133.5 million unrestricted grant from the Scott Foundation. Approximately $113.5 million of the donation will go directly to 40 funder selected CIS local affiliates to support and expand their operations in schools and communities.

This generous investment is the largest in CISEasternPA history, which started serving area youth nearly 40 years ago, stated Maria Esposito, Vice President of Advancement for CISEasternPA. The gift is a testament to our organizations success at creating donor value through significant measured outcomes. The funds will allow us to broaden and deepen our commitment to children, ensuring long term sustainability and excellence for our programs."

CISEasternPA services schools in the third and fourth largest Title I districts in the state behind Philadelphia and Pittsburgh - Reading and Allentown," said President and CEO of CISEastern PA Tim Mulligan. "In the coming months, we will work closely with our board to determine strategies with a focus on expanding and accelerating efforts to build more transformative relationships with students. This influx will help make some hard funding decisions a little easier, but our goal to reach the most deserving students in the region requires continuous support.

For more information about CISEasternPA, visit the organization's website.
An American Islamic convert who taught Lisa Smith about the Quran and helped get her out of a women's "prison" in Syria was wanted by the FBI to face charges for supporting a terrorist organisation, the Special Criminal Court has heard.

In interviews with gardai Ms Smith, a former Irish soldier who denies membership of Islamic State, said that in March 2016 John Georgelas (aka Abu Hassan) got her out of a "madaffa" where she said she had been imprisoned for five months with 50 to 60 other women in a single house.

FBI agent Alan Goehring today told prosecution counsel, Sean Gillane SC, that on June 14, 2016, the FBI put Georgelas on an Interpol "red alert recall notice" as he was wanted to face three charges: for providing material support to a terrorist organisation, conspiring to support a terrorist organisation, and for a crime of violence.

Agent Geohring also told the court that in 2006 Georgelas was sentenced to 34 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to accessing a protected computer to access passwords protecting the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) website.

The court previously heard from witness Tania Joya that Georgelas intended to use the passwords to damage the organisation's website. Agent Goehring further revealed that on foot of a request from gardai he had gained access to Facebook messages and photographs belonging to the account of "Yahyah Abu Hassan".

Ms Smith (39) from Dundalk, Co. Louth, has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful terrorist group, Islamic State, between October 28, 2015, and December 1, 2019. She has also pleaded not guilty to financing terrorism by sending 800 in assistance, via a Western Union money transfer, to a named man on May 6, 2015.

Reasons for going to Islamic State

The court also heard today that Ms Smith told gardai that when she travelled to the Islamic State she wanted to get away from alcohol, prostitution and gay people, all of which she said are forbidden under Sharia law.

The court spent its third day listening to interviews Ms Smith gave to gardai after she returned to Dublin from Syria in December 2019 and was arrested and taken to Kevin St Garda Station. Detective Garda Eddie Carr told Mr Gillane that Ms Smith said she would not have gone to Syria only for the religious obligation she felt to go to the Islamic State.

She said she felt "uneasy" about going and wanted to go to Tunisia but Georgelas and others told her the announcement of the caliphate was real and she felt she had to go. She said she didn't go to "join anything" but to create an Islamic State where she could live and have a family where Muslims could "live in peace" and not be spat at in the street.

Disaster

When she got there, she said, "it turned out to be a disaster." She told gardai that her own husband at the time had warned her not to go to Syria but she thought he was just young and didn't know anything so she turned to Georgelas and others for advice.

They told her the Islamic State or caliphate was "real" and they pressured her into going, she said. Gardai asked her about videos she had seen of ISIS on the internet. She said there were other videos showing good things about the Islamic State and telling you that you would have "jobs, rights and Sharia".

She said a lot of people "lie about Muslims to make them look really bad," and she didn't know what the truth was.

She said she didn't go there to fight and never held a gun while in Syria. She said she was not there to provide military expertise and said that although her husband, a Pakistani/British Muslim she married after leaving the madaffa, had a Kalashnikov rifle, he never used it. All the men had Kalashnikovs, she said.

Survivor

She described herself as a "survivor of Islamic State" and said she tried many times to leave but couldn't. She had no role in Islamic State, she said, and did not provide assistance.

Gardai said they found it hard to believe that she never held a gun while in Syria. She responded: "I know you find it hard to believe but that's the truth. I didn't carry a gun. Anyone who knows me knows I wouldn't pick up a weapon and fight for stuff like that."

She said that she liked living in the Islamic State at first because there were no pubs selling alcohol, no prostitution and no gay people. "It was nice for a Muslim to live in that environment," she said. She told gardai that under Islamic law nobody is allowed to do anything to gay people or anyone else, adding: "I'm just saying it's not allowed."

Suicide attacks

She spoke about suicide attacks by ISIS including an attack in France in 2015 which happened after she had arrived in Syria. She said the Quran says you must not kill yourself. She said she does not agree with suicide attacks and said that under Islam it is "plain and it is clear, you are not allowed."

She said she doesn't know about things that are reported in the media about Islamic State or ISIS but said that if they did carry out suicide bombings, "they are wrong and they need to cop on to themselves." She said that she went to Syria for religious reasons and "definitely was not going to fight with terrorists."

When she arrived in Syria and was put in a "madaffa", a home for single women, she said she was "shocked" at the conditions. She described the madaffa as "like a prison for women" and said she couldn't understand why the Islamic State was building such prisons.

She said that after about five months, Georgelas got her out. She didn't know how he managed it because it was usually forbidden for women to go anywhere without a husband but she thought he might have said that she was coming to live with his family.

The trial continues in front of Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding, with Judge Gerard Griffin and Judge Cormac Dunne at the non-jury court.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : India-UK UN Consultations were held here on Thursday with both sides agreeing to work closely together across multilateral platforms and looking forward to deepening cooperation in the framework of the Commonwealth, in particular leading upto the CHOGM Summit in June 2022, the MEA said.

"Today the India and the UK held a consultation on the United Nations. This was held in New Delhi at the Joint Secretary level. Both sides briefed each other on their respective priorities in the UN Security Council. The discussions focused on issues related to the UNSC agenda, in particular counter-terrorism, peace-keeping, working methods of UNSC Sanctions Committees and UNSC reforms. Both sides also exchanged views on current regional and global developments," External Affair Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at a press briefing.

The Indian delegation was led by Prakash Gupta, Joint Secretary (UN Political) in the MEA and the UK side was led by Harriet Mathews, Deputy Political Director for UN, UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The Indian side also conveyed its best wishes to the UK for its upcoming Presidency of the UN Security Council in April 2022.
TORONTO, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Todays announcement by Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, Monte McNaughton about the governments proposed portable benefit scheme falls far short of what Ontario workers need, and leaves too many questions unanswered, says the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL).



We are concerned that the introduction of this scheme will mean the further misclassification of gig workers as self-employed, rather than employees who deserve the full and equal rights afforded to all workers, said Patty Coates, OFL President. Without offering full and equal rights to gig workers this proposal is really about further excluding them from minimum employment standards and access to existing statutory benefits.

Gig workers have outlined the actions that are urgently needed to ensure fairness and non-discriminatory treatment in the Gig Workers Bill of Rights . One of those actions is full and equal access to regulated benefits programs like Employment Insurance (EI), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and injury compensation (WSIB).

Any mention of pensions, or any retirement benefits for gig workers, was also glaringly absent from todays announcement.

Upon the release of the Ontario Workforce Recovery Advisory Committees report in December, Coates raised concerns about a subpar privatized health scheme . As Ive said before, portable benefits like EI and CPP already exist and gig workers need the same access to them as everyone else, added Coates. Where access to health care is falling short it should be improved to ensure all workers have the support they need. The answer to that challenge is the provision of universal dental care and pharmacare for every Ontarian, including retirees.

According to McNaughtons announcement, the advisory panel to create this proposed scheme will not report until July  one month after the provincial election is set to take place. This timeline is also concerning to workers.

Fords Conservative government has demonstrated they are not serious about giving precarious, misclassified workers their long overdue rights, said Coates. This is not only a half-baked scheme, but also a cheap election ploy.

The OFL will continue to urge the government to extend full and equal rights to gig workers by implementing the Gig Workers Bill of Rights .

The Ontario Federation of Labour represents 54 unions and one million workers in Ontario. For information, visit www.OFL.ca and follow @OFLabour on Facebook and Twitter .

For more information, please contact:

Melissa Palermo

Director of Communications

Ontario Federation of Labour

mpalermo@ofl.ca l 416-894-3456

sy/COPE343




Hong Kong: Public urged to avoid gatherings

In view of the severe epidemic situation, the Government today strongly urged citizens to reduce social activities including gatherings among families and stay at home.

In light of the deteriorating COVID-19 situation in Hong Kong and the number of new cases recorded daily remaining high, a series of measures will be taken to immediately enhance the city's capacity in guarding against the epidemic and containing further spread of the virus.

The Government noted that Hong Kong's current epidemic development is of grave concern. Over the past week, the number of cases has increased from 115 on January 28 to 121 today.

At the same time, the number of samples that have tested positive under sewage surveillance has climbed from 11 on January 28 to 21 yesterday across the city.

Different indications show that various silent transmission chains are still active in the community. It is worrying that the transmission chains show signs of spreading to various districts with an increasing trend of cases to be recorded.

Given the incredibly high transmissibility of the Omicron mutant strain, especially its BA.2 form, which clearly involves short-range airborne transmission, there is now a higher possibility of an exponential increase in infections. There is also a continuous stream of local cases involving the more lethal Delta strain.

Since the beginning of the fifth wave of the epidemic last December, the Government has swiftly launched a series of anti-epidemic measures. However, public transport patronage figures show that the people flow within Hong Kong has only dropped 20% in the recent period as compared with regular days.

In addition, citizens were still having many social activities during the Chinese New Year. The Government expects that the number of infected cases may show a significant or even exponential increase after the festive period.

Citizens are again urged to conduct tests early whenever they consider themselves at higher risk or show any mild symptoms.

The Government has been working with testing service contractors to enhance the testing capacity, aiming to significantly raise the daily maximum capacity of public and private laboratories from 100,000 to 200,000 tests before mid-February.

It will closely monitor cases and sewage surveillance results to conduct operations under the restriction-testing declaration and compulsory testing notice.

The Government will also distribute a large number of COVID-19 rapid test kits to citizens in high-risk districts for them to conduct self-tests.

The Civil Service Bureau today announced that bureaus and departments will implement the special work arrangements from tomorrow till February 11. The Government calls on employers to follow suit and arrange for their staff to work from home.

The Government had earlier gazetted the extension of existing social distancing measures till February 17 and announced that all kindergartens, primary, secondary and private schools offering a non-formal curriculum would suspend face-to-face classes and on-campus activities until February 21.

It is well aware that the extension of social distancing measures and closure of premises will inevitably affect different trades and relevant practitioners.

A funding application will be submitted to the Legislative Council Finance Committee as soon as possible with an aim to activate the sixth round of Anti-epidemic Fund.

This story has been published on: 2022-02-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Felicia Helene Rodriguez, 31, of Victorville was arrested on suspicion of fatally striking a woman pedestrian while driving on Mariposa Road in Victorville.

A driver was arrested on suspicion of killing a pedestrian while driving on Mariposa Road in Victorville.

Felicia Helene Rodriguez, 31, of Victorville remained in custody at the High Desert Detention Center in Adelanto on Wednesday, with bail set at $250,000, according to San Bernardino County Sheriffs booking records.

Adriana Verdugo, 24, of Victorville, was identified by sheriffs officials as the woman who was killed in the collision.

More: Apple Valley records 6th pedestrian fatality since October

The Victorville Sheriffs Station reported that at 2:24 a.m. Wednesday, deputies, American Medical Response and the Victorville Fire Department responded to a vehicle-pedestrian collision at the intersection of Mariposa Road and Locust Avenue.

The location of the collision was north of the Scandia Family Fun Center on Mariposa Road, area maps show.

Upon arrival, deputies and medical personnel pronounced the pedestrian, later identified as Verdugo, dead, sheriffs officials said.

Deputies learned the driver, later identified as Rodriguez, struck Verdugo, then fled the scene before emergency responders arrived, the sheriffs report stated.

Deputies with the Victorville Sheriffs Station Major Accident Investigation Team responded and assumed the investigation.

Investigators learned that Verdugo was struck in the northbound lanes of Mariposa Road, just north of Locust Avenue.

Rodriguez then left the scene but later turned herself in at the Victorville Sheriffs Station, approximately three hours after the collision had occurred, sheriffs officials said.

Investigators later located the involved vehicle, with major front end damage, near Nisqualli Road and Eleventh Avenue in Victorville.

Rodriguez was arrested at the Victorville Sheriffs Station on suspicion of felony hit-and-run causing death, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and while driving under the influence causing death, the sheriffs report indicated.

All northbound and southbound lanes of Mariposa Road remained closed for several hours while deputies conducted their investigation. The roadway was reopened around 11 a.m. the same day.

Story continues

The investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this collision or anyone who may have been a witness is asked to contact Deputy C. Bennington or S. Larocco at the Victorville Sheriffs Station at 760-241-2911

Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227 or RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on Instagram @RenegadeReporter and Twitter @DP_ReneDeLaCruz.

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Victorville driver arrested in connection with the hit-and-run death
Srinagar, Feb 3 : The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, along with the Senior Superintendent of Police, Rakesh Balwal, on Thursday visited the SMHS Hospital here to oversee the medical treatment of a 24-year-old acid attack survivor.

The woman, working at a beauty parlour to support her poor family, was attacked with acid on Tuesday evening. The police constituted a special investigation team which arrested the culprit and his two accomplices.

The DC handed over a cheque of Rs 1 lakh out of the District Red Cross Fund as an immediate assistance to the victim's family and also assured all possible support from the district administration.

While interacting with the Medical Superintendent of SMHS Hospital, Kanwal Jeet Singh, and other doctors, Asad enquired about the medical treatment being provided to the acid victim.
Security forces secure the scene of a shootout that left three suspected rebels dead in Koke Ked, a village in Songkhla province, southern Thailand, Feb. 3, 2022.

Ongoing violence in Thailands Deep South will not derail newly resumed in-person peace talks between BRN rebels and the Thai government, the Malaysian facilitator of the negotiations and other officials say.

On Thursday morning, according to the Thai military, security forces gunned down three suspected insurgents in a village in Songkhla, one of the provinces in the Muslim-majority southern border region.

It was the third deadly clash since mid-January when delegations representing the government and Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), the regions leading separatist insurgency group, met for two days of talks brokered by Malaysia near Kuala Lumpur.

There is no agreement between the two parties that no violence will happen throughout the period of peace talks, Abdul Rahim Noor, the Malaysian facilitator, told BenarNews this week.

Similar incidents will continue to happen until the peace agreement is signed. This is my personal view.

Such incidents, he said, will not affect the peace talks.

Both the Thai government and BRN have clearly stated that they could not control their people on the ground, Rahim Noor added.

I do not know if they meant what they said, but both parties will not take responsibility for any incidents out there.

Thursdays clash occurred after authorities said they had received a tip about suspected rebels hiding in an Islamic primary school next to a mosque in Koke Ked, a village in Songkhlas Chana district.

Officials attempted to  arrest, but the shootout erupted, resulting in the deaths of the trio, said a statement by the Forward Office of ISOC-4, the Thai Armys regional command in the Deep South.

After the peace talks on Jan. 11-12, Anas Abdulrahman, who led the BRN delegation, said there was no ceasefire and if we are attacked, we will defend ourselves.

BRN representatives were not immediately available to comment on the latest violence.

Previous incidents

Meanwhile last week, one person was injured when at least 13 small roadside explosions struck the Deep South town of Yala on Jan. 28 and 29, police said. According to the Yala municipal office, bombs were planted in more than 20 locations, while police said they found several unexploded improvised devices constructed from spray cans and metal pipes.

We cant officially conclude yet that the BRN was behind such attacks  but we have an initial speculation that the same old groups were behind them  given the types of explosives and the way the bombs were made, Kiatisak Neewong, the spokesman for ISOC-4, the militarys regional command, told BenarNews.

He also said the bombs were made to make a loud bang but were not meant to kill.

A political analyst, meanwhile, said the bombs could have been in retaliation for police killing two suspected insurgents during a raid earlier in the day on Jan 28.

On Jan. 20, two suspected rebels were killed and a Thai soldier was injured in a gunfight after negotiations failed in Sai Buri district, Pattani.

The series of clashes followed the first in-person peace negotiations in nearly two years after they were disrupted by the global outbreak of COVID-19 in early 2020.

The BRN has previously conducted coordinated attacks for these purposes, said Rungrawee Chalermsripinyorat, a Deep South researcher and lecturer at the Prince of Songkla University.

The string of bombs last week could have been a test for new fighters and caused little damage, she said.

However, the form of revenge attacks was often more destructive or severe and caused more casualties than the recent Yala bombings, Rungrawee told BenarNews.

It could be that the BRN wants to maintain its legitimacy in the eyes of the international community, and so the attacks did not mean to cause casualties. It is more like making a political statement, she said.

The BRN might need to show that it still exists and remains militarily capable.

Civil defense officers guard Muslim students carrying a banner saying stop violence during a rally attended by Muslim and Buddhist residents in Narathiwat province, Thailand, Jan. 22, 2019. [AFP]

Rungrawee added that one should not expect that there will be no violence while the peace process is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Kiatisak, the spokesman for ISOC-4, alleged that the assailants always seek a chance for disruption and conduct it when they can.

Nevertheless, the incidents do not jeopardize the atmosphere of the peace talks. [W]e believe the next round of talks will go on, he told BenarNews. Its normal that there are obstacles along the way to goals.

No date has been set for those talks.

On Thursday, Lt. Gen. Thira Daehwa, the secretary of Thailands Peace Dialogue Panel, said the Thai military had reduced the number of checkpoints and deployment of troops even as it maintains efforts to rid the Deep South of militants.

We already adopted a non-violence method, having their kin help negotiate and encourage them to surrender, he told BenarNews.

The armed separatist movement against Buddhist-majority Thailand began in the 1960s, primarily demanding independence for the region which is home to predominantly Muslim-Malay people along the Malaysia border. Thailand had annexed it in 1909 as part of a treaty with Britain.

Local think-tank Deep South Watch said more than 7,000 people have been killed and 13,500 others injured in violence across the region since the insurgency reignited in January 2004.
Bhopal, Feb 3 : The Budget Session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly will be held from March 7 to 25. During the 19-day Assembly session, a total of 13 meetings are scheduled, said an official statement issued by the MP Assembly on Thursday.

The session will begin with the speech of Governor Mangu Bhai Patel on March 7, while state Finance Minister Jagdish Devda will present the annual budget for the financial year 2022-23 on March 9.

Assembly Speaker Girish Gautam said that considering the Covid-19 situation in the state, the Budget Session has been scheduled for a short duration.

"The priority will be to include more subjects and hold healthy discussions. If needed, the timings will be extended," he said.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had earlier stated that the annual budget for 2022-23 will focus on farmers, health, education and providing jobs to the youth of the state.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : There were 127 tiger deaths, with the maximum (42) of them in Madhya Pradesh, in 2021 as compared to 106 deaths in 2020, the Parliament was told on Thursday.

"Of the 127, Madhya Pradesh alone accounted for 42 deaths, the highest, followed by Maharashtra at 27. Apart from that, Karnataka saw 15 deaths, Uttar Pradesh nine, Assam and Kerala, six each while Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu and Telangana witnessed four each deaths of the national animal. Uttarakhand saw three deaths while Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and West Bengal witnessed one death each of the tigers," Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ashwini Kumar Choubey told Rajya Sabha in a written reply, citing figures furnished by states.

"The average lifespan of the tigers in the wild is generally 10-12 years and in natural ecosystem factors like old age, diseases, internecine fights, electrocution, snaring, drowning, road, rail hits etc. and a very high infant mortality observed in big cats, including tigers accounts for majority of tiger deaths," he added.

The Minister also listed the steps taken by the government to prevent such deaths and about the conservation methods.

"Due to efforts of the Government of India through the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the tiger has been brought back from the brink of extinction to an assured path of recovery, which is evident in findings of the quadrennial All India Tiger Estimation conducted in 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2018." These results have shown a healthy annual growth rate of tigers at 6 per cent, which offsets natural losses and keeps tigers at the habitats carrying capacity level, in the Indian context, he said.

On December 30, 2021, the Ministry had issued a clarification over media reports about tiger deaths in the country, wherein it had stated that "for the period 2012 to 2021, the average tiger deaths per year in the country hovered around 98, which is balanced by the annual recruitment as highlighted by this robust growth rate".

In addition, the National Tiger Conservation Authority has taken several steps under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger to address poaching, which too, is significantly controlled as seen in the confirmed poaching and seizure cases, it said.
An Australian comedian's cheeky request for his new landlord to provide a reference has backfired, but he reckons renters shouldn't be afraid to follow his lead.

Tom Cashman, a regular on The Project, decided to flip the script and ask for proof that previous tenants were satisfied living under the owner who had approved his application.

But after exchanging emails about the request with an unimpressed property manager, Mr Cashman's application was unexpectedly withdrawn.

He had already been approved for the studio apartment in Sydney's eastern suburbs at $380 a week before he cheekily asked for the reference.

Tom Cashman's cheeky request for his new landlord to provide a reference has backfired, but he reckons renters shouldn't be afraid to follow his lead (Pictured: Mr Cashman and his former housemate after winning a bogus claim against his bond over an alleged ant infestation)

The agent, Stephanie, apparently didn't see the funny side of the request, after initially claiming she didn't understand the question.

'The owner does not wish to contact the previous tenants and it is not a requirement,' she wrote back to him.

'Good luck with your property search.'

Poll Should landlords provide references from former tenants? Yes No Should landlords provide references from former tenants? Yes 733 votes

No 188 votes Now share your opinion





Then 'within that same minute' she cancelled Mr Cashman's application, which generated an automatic notification.

'The response was a bit more intense than I was expecting,' Mr Cashman said in a video, which he posted to his Instagram and TikTok accounts.

'I thought it was a reasonable request,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'I've had good landlords and bad ones and the difference can have a pretty big impact on you.'

He did not want to name the agency or the agent's surname because 'I'm not interested in getting anyone fired'.

'I also still need to find a home to rent,' he said.

However Mr Cashman admitted Stephanie might find his way into his routine at the upcoming Melbourne Comedy Festival.

He felt the incident revealed an 'unfair power dynamic' between agents and tenants.

'Most of the time when you sign a contract you have some idea of who you are dealing with,' he said.

Renter Tom Cashman asked his property manager if she could get the landlord to provide a reference from previous tenants. She replied saying she didn't understand the request, so he asked again (pictured, Mr Cashman's correspondence with 'Stephanie')

'It seems pretty reasonable information to ask for before signing a contract for tens of thousands of dollars to ask who they are, because for some reason it's a secret.

'Why does someone need to be secret in a commercial relationship?

'I don't think I even agree with the argument that it's "normal practice".'

Mr Cashman, a renter for 10 years, has had issues with landlords before and once had to defend himself over bogus claims of an ant infestation in a unit where he'd never actually seen an ant.

He was asked to pay $100 for the removal of the 'ant infestation' after leaving a tenancy in the inner Sydney suburb of Leichhardt - but refused. The agent's proof was a photo of 'four ants on a bench'.

Mr Cashman fought the claim and won.

'I argued that four ants is not enough to constitute an ant infestation,' he saide.

He admitted he asked Stephanie the question about the landlord reference because he had other options and wasn't desperate.

He suggested other tenants in a similar position should also ask.

'The more people that do it, the more normal it will become,' he said.

On social media plenty of others agreed with Mr Cashman and revealed landlord horror stories.

'My last landlord hung a dead pigeon on a stake in my front yard. I definitely would like any future tenants to know that,' Sinead wrote on TikTok.

'My last landlord said "I'm not going to spend money fixing things in a house I dont live in". I wish I couldnt told the next tenants that,' wrote Lila.

Even a landlord agreed.

Mr Cashman said he's had good landlords and bad ones and the difference can have a big impact on renters' lives

'I am a landlord - I would happily give out references, I think some sort of score sheet would be great to make it fair across the board,' wrote Joeyanna.

Several also suggested leaving Google reviews on real estate agents - which could help keep agents accountable, but not owners.

NSW Tenant's Union CEO Leo Patterson-Ross said NSW needed a licensing registration scheme to keep track of landlords.

Such a scheme has recently been introduced in Scotland, costing landlords $117.

Mr Patterson-Ross told Daily Mail Australia that Mr Cashman was right to point out the problem.

'It's a really important principle to raise that the power imbalance is there and what are the implications for the way we regulate and think of tenancy contracts,' he said.

'Most tenancy laws assume there's equal parties coming together, but that's not most people's experience.'
Maybe youve heard about artist Banksy, the ubiquitous but faceless spray-painter of social commentary, but if not, you have until March to see some of his best-known work in Tokyo.

Banksy: Genius or Vandal? closes March 8 at With Harajuku in a retail center just east of and across the street from Harajuku Station. Its producers style the exhibition as unauthorized and drawn from private collections of the U.K.-based artist.

Inside the warren of rooms strung together to house the 40-plus pieces gathered for the showing are Banksy works grouped by theme: consumption, protest, pop art. A faceless art provocateur, Banksy is best known for his works of graffiti that turn ordinary walls into collectors items.

But the exhibit shows a variety of media, including a temporary installation in Weston-super-Mare, a seaside English resort, called Dismaland. A short film recalls the 2015 project that, according to the exhibit, wasnt a straight-on Disney satire but more a commentary inspired by the Mouse.

The show starts with a mock-up of what Banksys studio might look like, a re-creation based on a variety of photos and videos. The organizers send visitors through in small groups, and everyone is masked, but inside the galleries people begin to bunch up in groups, creating currents and backwater in the groups following them, so be advised. Its not necessarily the best place to avoid COVID-19.

The first gallery is a collection of the artists work in stencil that ridicules the consumer habits of the West, mingling iconic brands with the iconography of politics and religion.

Another room celebrates Banksys pop-art connection with Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol. A wall-sized array of panels bearing Marilyn Monroes image in Warholesque neon commands your attention.

Around the corner, the military and police are targets of barbed commentary. Banksys work ties the capitalist impulse to the agencies of force and control but weaves a thread of awareness by the consumer class that says this too shall pass.

The British royal family and British politics are skewered forthrightly in lithographs depicting the Monkey Queen and the Monkey Parliament.

Even those only vaguely aware of the name Banksy may recognize a couple of well-known works, a protestor in a bandanna mask and hat with its bill reversed, his arm cocked like a big-league pitcher, about to toss what the viewer will expect is a Molotov cocktail but in Banksys interpretation is a floral bouquet.

The exhibition concludes with Girl with a Balloon, the first version of which appeared outside Waterloo Station in London in 2002. The artist later incorporated it in murals and multimedia works that drew attention to the Palestinian-Israeli divide in the West Bank and the conflict in Syria. Girl with a Balloon is widely considered the most recognizable piece of work associated with Banksy.

No matter your intellectual proclivities, Banksy serves up food for thought.

ON THE QT

Location: 1-14-30 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001

Directions: From Shinjuku Station take the Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. Exit the east gate, turn left and look for the Ikea in the building across the street. The venue, With Harajuku, is on the third floor. Tickets are available at well-marked booth in the ground-floor breezeway adjacent the Ikea.

Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with last entry a half-hour before closing.

Costs: Timed entry tickets purchased online cost 1,200 yen to 1,800 yen for junior high to adults ($10.50 to $15.75). Weeknights are discounted; weekends run from 1,200 yen to 2,400 yen for junior high to adults ($10.50 to $20.97)

Food: Plenty of options on nearby Takeshita Street and in the surrounding area.

Information: Online: banksyexhibition.jp/en
A Beatrice man will spend six years on probation for a shooting death that occurred in December 2020.

Brandon J. Long, 26, was sentenced this week in Gage County District Court in the Dec. 30 shooting death of Alex Rader outside a Beatrice home.

Theres not a day that goes by that I dont think about what happened and the effect that my actions have on so many people, Alexs family, my family, and I just want them all to know how sorry I am, Long told the court before sentencing. If I could take it back, I would.

District Court Judge Rick Schreiner said that at around 11:45 p.m. the day of the shooting, Long and his fiancee were on the couch at the home when they heard noises outside. Their 2-year-old daughter was sleeping in the next room.

Long went to a bedroom and retrieved a 9 mm pistol, then went outside to investigate.

Schreiner said Rader was involved in an intimate relationship with Longs fiancee, Jessica Ray.

Long and Ray allegedly had an argument earlier, and Ray texted Rader about it. Its believed Rader went to the residence to check on her that night.

Ms. Ray chose to text Mr. Rader and tell him about that argument, Schreiner said. Mr. Raders response was to go over at approximately 11:45 p.m. at night. The evidence indicates there were footprints near the windows, which would explain the noises outside the house. Its assumed he was there to check on his girlfriend while she was in the house with her fiancee.

Schreiner said Rader was wearing a coat, a stocking cap and a mask that covered the lower portion of his face. He added that the Police Departments investigation and statements from those involved indicated Long did not know who Rader was when he went outside.

Mr. Long says he was startled by that, pulled the trigger and fired one shot, Schreiner said. The individual standing by the side of the house was hit and ended up falling to the ground.

Additionally, Long had received anonymous threats via text message the week before the shooting occurred.

Mr. Long received anonymous text messages threatening him harm, stating they know where he lives, they know what his license number is, what his car looks like, threatening to beat him up and that it would be terrible if he and his car ended up in a ditch. Mr. Long in his statement says that those threats had an impact on his actions that night, that he had reason to be fearful.

Schreiner said that both men made judgment errors that night: Long should have called police when he heard someone outside the residence, and Rader should have called police if he suspected Ray was in danger.

Mr. Long should have called law enforcement, but he made that decision to investigate it himself, Schreiner said. He says his main goal was to protect his family and that he never wanted anyone to lose their life. Thats where I get to asking, why? This was completely avoidable on both sides.

Long was sentenced to 36 months of probation for terroristic threats and another 36 months of probation for possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony, to be served one after the other.

Two additional felony charges against Long were dropped as part of a plea agreement: second-degree murder and use of a firearm to commit a felony.
LONG BEACH, Calif., Jan. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Integrated Polymer Solutions (IPS) and its CEO, Rich McManus, hosted a delegation of senior leaders from the U.S. Army, Navy and Lockheed Martin on December 15, 2021, at the Rubbercraft state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Long Beach, California.

LTG L. Neil Thurgood (far left), Director of Hypersonic, Directed Energy, Space and Rapid Acquisition, U.S. Army, Rick Smith, VP Global Supply Chain Management, Lockheed Martin Space, Rich McManus, CEO, Integrated Polymer Solutions and CDR Ryan Johnson (far right), Flight Systems Deputy, Strategic Systems Programs, U.S. Navy.

U.S. Army Lieutenant General L. Neil Thurgood, Director of Hypersonic, Directed Energy, Space and Rapid Acquisition, led the delegation, along with U.S. Navy Commander Ryan Johnson, Flight Systems Deputy, Strategic Systems Programs, and Lockheed Martin's Rick Smith, VP Global Supply Chain Management.

The meeting provided an opportunity to emphasize the importance of Army and Navy hypersonic programs for the nation. This collaboration and communication enables continued support and service to our war fighters.

IPS and its companies have been serving all branches of the U.S. Military for over 50 years, providing mission-critical engineered solutions. Throughout IPS' growth, we have remained nimble and continue to proactively offer sustainable solutions simply through listening to the voice of our customers.

Integrated Polymer Solutions is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced materials and engineered components focused exclusively on high-value end markets in aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductors, robotics, energy and industrial. The group consists of eight highly respected manufacturing businesses; Rubbercraft, Northern Engineering Sheffield (NES), Icon Aerospace Technology, MAST Technologies, Swift Textile Metalizing (STM), ABBA Roller, IRP Medical and Seal Science.

Contact: Integrated Polymer Solutions, Lasse Ostergaard, VP Marketing  email: [email protected] or +1 562 354 2800.

SOURCE Integrated Polymer Solutions
Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest is taking legal action against Facebook over scam ads allegedly promoting cryptocurrency schemes using his image.

Fortescue Metals boss Andrew Forrest has launched criminal proceedings against Facebook claiming the social media giant failed to stop clickbait advertising scams using his image.

The action alleges the tech giant breached federal anti-money laundering laws and is being taken in the Magistrates Court of Western Australia, Dr Forrest's home state.

Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest is taking legal action against Facebook over scam ads allegedly promoting cryptocurrency schemes using his image

It is the first time Facebook, rebranded as Meta last year, has faced criminal charges globally, Dr Forrest says.

The scam ads use the mining magnate's image and other well-known Australians to promote cryptocurrency schemes, he claims, and have appeared on the platform since 2019.

Dr Forrest has made repeated requests asking Facebook to prevent the use of his image, including an open letter to founder Mark Zuckerberg in November 2019.

The Australian billionaire said he is concerned about innocent Australians being scammed by criminal syndicates through clickbait advertising on social media.

'This action is being taken on behalf of everyday Australians - mums and dads, grans and grandads,' he said in a video statement on Thursday.

'Innocent Australians who have worked all their lives to gather their savings so they might retire as we all hope to in comfort, and not to have those hard-earned savings swindled away by people who just simply could not care less.'

It is the first time Facebook, rebranded as Meta last year, has faced criminal charges globally (stock image)

The criminal charges have been brought under the Commonwealth Criminal Code with the consent of the Attorney-General Michaelia Cash, he said.

They allege Facebook was 'criminally reckless' by taking insufficient steps to stop criminals from using the platform to defraud innocent users and failed to create controls or a corporate culture to prevent its system being used to commit crimes.

Dr Forrest, who was worth an estimated $27.25 billion in mid-2021, said he wants social media companies to use their vast resources to protect vulnerable people being targeted by the scams.

'Social media is part of our lives like newspapers, like publications, like roads, like hospitals,' he said.

'But we all are responsible. Everything I just named has deep legal responsibilities except many players in social media. The time has come to call that to account.'

An initial hearing in the WA Magistrates Court will be held on March 28. A civil case has also been filed against Facebook in California.

Facebook Australia have been contacted for comment.
SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- USANA's international markets have started off the new year with two major awards. USANA Korea was presented the 'family-friendly company' certification selected by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, while Citta Bella Magazine awarded USANA Malaysia for its Celavive Vitalizing Serum.

To find out more about USANA and its products, please visit USANA.com.

USANA Korea

USANA Korea recognizes the importance of balancing both work and home life. They've created a family-friendly culture by paying close attention to employee needs. For example, maternity leave and reduced working hours have been introduced and are actively encouraged for employees who are about to give birth. Family time also takes priority with benefits like Family Day giving employees a paid day off to be with their loved ones. It's policies like these that earned the market the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family's 'family-friendly company' certification.

"USANA means 'true health,' and we put the health and happiness of our customers and employees first," says Gary Hong, USANA's general manager of Korea. "We will continue to support our employees and their families to live life to the fullest."

USANA Malaysia

The annual Citta Bella Beauty Awards feature hundreds of brands and up to 160 products, with key industry opinion leaders, senior make-up and hair stylists, and the Citta Bellaone of the most popular Chinese woman's magazines in Malaysiaeditorial team selecting the best representatives in 65 beauty product categories. After a rigorous and careful selection process, USANA's Vitalizing Serum has been given the award of the Best Vitalizing Serum

"We are honored that our Vitalizing Serum has received such a prestigious award," says Sabrina Khoo, USANA's general manager of Malaysia. "There is certainly a reason that Vitalizing Serum has continuously been one of our best-selling products, and this award from Citta Bella shows everyone what we and our customers already know."

About USANA

USANA ( NYSE:USNA) prides itself on providing consumers high quality nutritional products in the world. From its award-winning supplements to its innovative skincare and active nutrition lines, USANA has proven for nearly 30 years why it's a company you can trust. How about giving us a try? Shop at USANA.com or learn more at whatsupUSANA.com.

Media Contact: Amy Haran

Executive Vice President of Communications

(801) 954-7641

media(at)us.usana(dot)com

SOURCE USANA
BJP leader on Thursday cautioned Rashtriya Lok Dal president over his party's tie-up with Samajwadi Party, saying does not even listen to his father and uncle then how would he listen to him.

Addressing a poll event in Anupshahr assembly constituency in Bulandshahr district of western UP, the Union Home Minister also claimed that the SP will not be able to form government in Uttar Pradesh.

Lauding the Yogi Adityanath-led government in UP since 2017, Shah hit out at Yadav, a former chief minister, and asked if the Samajwadi Party chief can keep law and order in check in the state.

He does not meet people, does only press conferences and has our Jayant ji by his side. Sarkar warkar to banni nahi hai ye samajh kar chalna but thinks if the government is formed, Akhilesh babu would listen to him. Jayant babu, it's a fallacy. Someone who does not listen to his own father and uncle, how would he listen to you, Shah said.

He claimed that as such the SP is not going to form the government in UP but in case it does, then the RLD chief would be pushed out on the third day only and Azam Khan, the jailed SP leader, would replace him.

The senior BJP leader on the occasion hit out at previous SP, BSP governments over procurement of crops by the state, and said the situation has changed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's regime, with farmers' crops being procured at MSP rates.

He credited his BJP with public welfare schemes like direct cash transfer into accounts of the poor, ration distribution, providing power supply for longer duration, connecting homes with power lines, building toilets, among others.

Why could you (the SP, BSP) not do this? It's because they gave contracts to only one caste and engaged in corruption, he alleged.

Shah was in the district to seek support for Sanjay Sharma, the BJP's assembly candidate from Anupshahr, which will go to the polls on February 10.

Later campaigning for the BJP candidate in Loni of Ghaziabad, Shah said the Assembly elections are not for making anybody a minister but to eliminate criminals.

This election is for making the future of the youth bright and make 15 crore poor prosperous, he said at the election meeting, which was attended by Union minister V K Singh.

(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 fully vaccinated Australian teenager has suffered through two bouts of Covid in less than four weeks.

Natalie Sorensen, an 18-year-old ballet dancer living in Sydney, was first diagnosed with the virus via a PCR test on January 5.

The young woman described her first illness as intense, with constant fatigue and shortness of breath - along with typical flu-like symptoms.

She isolated at home and recovered, receiving a negative test a week later.

Ms Sorensen assumed she had at least 28 days protection from the virus, but by the end of January she was struck down again.

'It's got to be a joke at this point,' she said after receiving a second positive PCR result on January 29.

Natalie Sorensen, an 18-year-old ballet dancer was first exposed to the virus in early January - before receiving a positive result from a PCR test on January 5

The ballet dancer (above) said it is rare to catch the virus twice and she didn't want to scare anyone with her second positive test result in just three weeks

'It is extremely rare to catch this again so quickly, your immune system should be able to fight it off.'

Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer the Australian Government's Department of Health Professor Alison McMillan recently explained how reinfection works.

Prof McMillan said that getting Covid should trigger an immune response but it 'isn't clear' how long that response will last.

'This Omicron variant, as we know, has had a number of changes to the spike protein, you know, those things that we've seen in the pictures throughout the last two years,' she said.

Ms Sorensen wanted to share her double diagnosis to warn people, but said they shouldn't be alarmed because not many are 'unlucky enough' to catch it again so soon.

'I was overworking and other personal factors contributed to my immune system not being able to fight the virus,' she said.

Is it possible to catch Covid 19 twice in a month? According to the CDC: Reinfection with the virus that causes Covid-19 means a person was infected, recovered, and then later became infected again. After recovering from Covid most individuals will have some protection from repeat infections. However, reinfections do occur after Covid. Variants Viruses are constantly changing, including the virus that causes Covid. These changes can lead to the emergence of variants (new strains of the virus) that can increase the risk of reinfection. Advertisement

The young woman said she is fairly exhausted but has been making a vlog on TikTok to pass the time

Poll Have you had Covid twice within a month? Yes! No! Have you had Covid twice within a month? Yes! 28 votes

No! 276 votes Now share your opinion





One of her followers, also a young woman, said she was in the same boat - catching Covid first on the third of January then again at the end of the month.

'We are in this together then,' Natalie wrote on the comments.

And a third agreed the situation wasn't ideal after she also was re-exposed.

'I caught it again almost exactly 28 days after the first time - both work outbreaks,' she said.

Others laughed at the young woman and said it didn't count if she 'got it again within three months'.

Three of her followers said they had also been reinfected within 28 days

'You can keep getting positive PCR tests,' one woman said.

But the teenager patiently replied, telling the woman she had had symptoms again so was 'definitely re-infected'.

Ms Sorensen said she was 'making the most of Covid number two' by reading, sunbaking, sleeping and making a series of videos for TikTok.

She said her symptoms during the her second bout have so far been mild.
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - J&T Express, an international express logistics company, today announced at LEAP that it will set up its MENA regional headquarters in Riyadh, the capital city of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and build the largest smart logistics industrial park in the region together with eWTP Arabia Capital and other partners.

Held in Riyadh from February 1-3, 2022, LEAP Summit is a leading global technology event in Saudi Arabia, featuring over 700 emerging technology startups. Jet Lee, Founder and Chairman of the J&T Group, delivered a keynote speech via video at the summit, announcing that J&T Express will set its MENA regional headquarters in Riyadh, the capital city of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and build the largest smart logistics park in the region. He shared that the industrial park will meet the growing logistics demands in the region, serve J&T's consumers and partners, and enhance delivery service experiences.

Representing the Saudi Arabian government, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the smart logistics industrial park project with J&T Express and eWTP Arabia Capital. H.E. Eng. Khalid Al-Falih, Minister of Investment of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency the President of GACA, Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, and the Chairman of Saudi Federation for Cyber Security, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), Board Member of Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC), Mr. Faisal Alkhamisi, attended and witnessed the signing ceremony.

With the signing of the project, J&T Express is committed to cultivate professional talents, invest in advanced technology and equipment, and build the largest smart logistics industrial park in the MENA in the next ten years, making Saudi Arabia a global hub and strategic operation center for the entire regional market. The logistics park will include world-class sorting centers, auto warehousing systems, air cargo terminals, e-commerce industrial parks and modern industrial parks. It will provide the most advanced tech-driven services to its ecosystem partners in the near future and foster robust growth in the local retail and manufacturing sectors with the goal of making Saudi Arabia a pivotal gateway that bridges Asia, Europe, and Africa and helping Saudi Arabia achieve Vision 2030. This initiative is also greatly supported by the MENA venture capital eWTP Arabia Capital and other partners.

eWTP Arabia Capital's Managing Partner Jerry Li commented at the event, "It's a great pleasure for eWTP Arabia to participate in this project as a partner to further support J&T Express' operations in the MENA region and fuel its global network development. Together with J&T Express, we are confident to support more tech-driven innovative companies, supply chains and brands in China, who are looking to win over the global market."

In January this year, J&T Express launched its business in both the Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) markets. With its national self-owned distribution networks and localised warehousing systems, the company has successfully achieved full coverage in both countries.

Since its establishment in 2015, J&T Express has always adhered to a global mindset. With its unique operation model and active market expansion, it has rapidly built its own delivery network in 10 countries across the pan-Asia Pacific region to meet the growing demand of users for cross-border services. J&T Express will continue exploring opportunities in emerging markets as part of its global strategy to connect the world with greater efficiency and bring logistic benefits to all.

About J&T Express

Founded in August 2015, J&T Express is a rapidly-growing international delivery company, with its core business in express services and cross-border logistics. J&T Express is committed to continuously creating integrated quality experiences for its customers globally. J&T Express' network spans ten countries including China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia, Singapore, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and serves over 2 billion people.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1721319/JT_Express_Logo.jpg

SOURCE J&T Express
Hello, neighbors! It's me, Simone, your host of the Healdsburg Daily. I'm back in your inboxes this Thursday with all the latest on what's been happening around town. Here we go...

First, today's weather:

Some sun, then clouds. High: 63 Low: 34.

After a couple days of wild winds, the "High Wind Advisory" ended this morning. Gusts reportedly blew as strong as 70-plus mph yesterday in the mountains surrounding Healdsburg. And "a 56 mph gust was recorded on Red Hill east of Healdsburg," according to the PD. (Healdsburg Patch & Press Democrat; paywall)

Air over Healdsburg:

This is what the air over Healdsburg looked like earlier this morning. (Photo courtesy of Holly Wilson)

Here are the top 5 stories in Healdsburg today:

The City of Healdsburg is considering "possible changes in commercial cannabis regulations within the city limits," which could pave the way for a new cannabis dispensary in town. But first, they're seeking input from residents via an official "Commercial Cannabis Community Survey" currently making the rounds. City leaders say they'll "use this feedback to help guide policy discussions later this year," so "please voice your opinion on this important matter." You have til Feb. 11 to fill out the survey. (Facebook & SurveyMonkey - English & SurveyMonkey - Espanol) Related: Healdsburg couple Ingrid Tsong and Jonathan Wentzel are featured in a somber CapRadio story on local cannabis farmers facing an "end of days" situation. Their farm, Beija Flor Farms up in Mendocino County, "has reached a breaking point in recent months," the story says. "Prices have fallen so far that their business is now losing money, and the couple is unsure they can afford to plant a crop this year." They and other farmers are criticizing Gov. Newsom for failing to set the legal cannabis industry up for success once Prop. 64 passed. For this Healdsburg couple, "the combination of high taxes and fees and an acreage cap for their farm, an oversupply of marijuana on the legal market and few places to sell it, has squeezed them from all directions. Tsong said their crop last fall cost about $460 per pound to produce, a third of that from Californias cultivation tax for growers. But wholesale prices have dropped to about $300 per pound in recent weeks, compared to as much as $800 per pound at the same time last year." (CapRadio) Fern Calender Naber, a longtime elementary school teacher in Healdsburg, has passed away at the age of 98. From her obituary: "Fern was a committed member of Trinity Baptist Church and an active participant of the Healdsburg Museum and a volunteer at the Schulz Museum. Fern excelled as a third-grade teacher, spending nine years at Healdsburg Elementary, and 13 years at Fitch Mountain School. Sharing her talents of teaching and love of children, she connected not only through school, but Vacation Bible School, her puppets (many remember her beloved Daisy) and volunteer time spent in various local groups and organizations." May she rest in peace. (Legacy.com) The Museum of Sonoma County posted a great tribute on social media this week to Healdsburg's own Smith "Smitty" Robinson, who was "one of the few Black residents of Sonoma County when his parents moved to Healdsburg in 1923." You may know him as the namesake of the Robinson Gym at Healdsburg High. According the museum, during World War II, Smitty "wrote letters to every active service member from Healdsburg and even began sending them a newsletter called 'Smittys Scoops' with news from Healdsburg." He also "started the Smitty Robinson Trophy to be given annually to the outstanding female athlete in high school"; "lead the youth choir at the then Federated Church of Healdsburg (now the Community Church)"; and, during the Korean War, "organized a grassroots effort in the community to send care packages to soldiers." Upon his death, the Healdsburg Tribune reportedly called Robinson one of Healdsburgs most famous citizens, and one of its best liked." (Facebook) What's going on in Healdsburg's miles and miles of vineyards these days? Sonoma Magazine has a good explainer on all the critical vine activity that happens during wintertime months, when rains have turned the grass below vines a beautiful, blinding green and the mustard seed between rows is exploding. The main thing is pruning. "The annual shaping of dormant vines is both a meditation and a careful calculation, as dedicated crews set the stage for the coming year's harvest," the magazine says. Marco Garcia, vineyard manager at Healdsburg's Capo Creek Ranch, explains how he decides when to prune: "When you see all the vines with leaves still even just a little green, they are still working. When all the leaves have dropped, they are shut down. If you cut before theyre dormant, youve broken them. ... There are so many things to think about as you go." It reportedly takes three workers around six weeks to prune all the vines at Capo Creek. And it's more relaxed than harvest. "You start your morning with a coffee, play some music you love, and soak up the beauty of nature Oh my goodness, its the best job in the world, Garcia says. (Sonoma Magazine)

From our sponsor:

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Healdsburg pic of the day:

Healdsburg resident Christopher Lefferts, who lives off South Fitch Mountain near the golf course, took this pic of his dog Gizmo celebrating the Chinese Year of the Tiger. Lefferts used to own 8 Dragons Restaurant in the Safeway Shopping Center, which closed down last year. "If you can, please try to get food from a Chinese restaurant" to celebrate the Chinese New Year, he says. "The Covid restrictions and stay at home recommendations have been especially difficult for restaurants." (Photo courtesy of Christopher Lefferts)

Want to see your local photo here? Submit it for consideration. We especially love pics of community members! Please just confirm in your email that you own the rights to the photo, and that Patch has permission to republish it.

Today and tomorrow in Healdsburg:



Thursday, February 3

Healdsburg American Association of University Women (AAUW) Forum : "Interpreting Works of Art - Your GPS for Visual Literacy" (10-11:45AM)

"Creativity As Self-Care" Class at Healdsburg Center for the Arts (Weekly on Thursdays, Feb. 3-March 10, 5:30-7PM)

Healdsburg Running Company Thursday Night Run : Hoka Demo to Rockpile Vineyards Tasting Room (6PM)

Healdsburg High School English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) Meeting (6-8PM)

Friday, February 4

Little Monsters Culinary Cooking & Art Class at Old Felta Schoolhouse (3:45-6:30PM)

From my notebook:

State officials are offering an all-day "technical assistance workshop for cannabis cultivators" this coming Wednesday at Healdsburg's Best Western Dry Creek Inn. "Cannabis permitting, engineering and grant staff" from the state will be on hand to discuss "general and complex cannabis construction activities, notification package assistance, compliance questions and cannabis grant program opportunities." (CA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife)

Erik Engstrom and a group of around a dozen other Healdsburg neighbors pooled the money needed to help out a well-known artist in town after his car, which also serves as his home, broke down for good. He's now got a new set of wheels. Shoutout to everyone who pitched in! (Facebook)

The local "Indivisible Healdsburg" org is pressuring our City Council to adopt a more climate-friendly "electric reach code for new residential construction," which would require "new low-rise residential buildings to eliminate natural gas and have only electric appliances." (Facebook)

There's a nice feature in the Press Democrat on Little Monsters Culinary, a Healdsburg cooking school for kids that instills "life skills and confidence" in the kitchen. (Press Democrat; paywall)

The North Bay Business Journal has an interesting profile, too, on Healdsburg resident and Michelin chef Steve Litke , a former chef at Bistro Ralph's who went on to head the kitchen at the increasingly prestigious Farmhouse Inn in Forestville for more than two decades. Now that he's retiring, he reflects on his legacy and the talent moving into Farmhouse to fill his shoes. (North Bay Business Journal)

Some more industry news: Investment firm SBJ Capital has purchased the Rack & Riddle sparkling wine company in Healdsburg. (Axios)

There are a couple super sweet-looking "tortoiseshell" cats now up for adoption at the Healdsburg animal shelter. As well as a tiny terrier puppy! (Healdsburg Patch)

A new documentary being made about sexual abuse survivors was filmed partially in Healdsburg, the PD reports. (Press Democrat; paywall)

Girl scout cookie season is upon us! Here are a couple local Healdsburg girls taking pre-orders . (Facebook & Facebook)

Did anyone spot the massive military USAF KC-10 Extender tanker and cargo aircraft doing training exercises yesterday at the Sonoma County Airport? Here's some cool footage. (Facebook & Facebook)

I'm sure you've heard already, but every household in the U.S. can now order four free at-home rapid antigen COVID tests . Here's more info from Sonoma County officials on how to get yours. (Facebook)

Members of the "You Know You're from Healdsburg, CA if..." community Facebook group are always uploading wonderful old pics from Healdsburg's past . Here are some nice shots of City Hall circa 1886 and 1914 and Garrett's Hardware circa 1924. (Facebook & Facebook & Facebook)

Both KinSmoke and Duke's on the plaza have taken down their outdoor seating areas, according to observant neighbors. (Facebook)

And speaking of KinSmoke: Their h appy hour menu is back . It's available on weekdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Facebook)

The Flakey Cream donut shop in the CVS shopping center is hiring servers right now. (Nextdoor)

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 Simone Wilson

About me: I was born and raised in Healdsburg, CA, where I was the editor of the Healdsburg High School Hound's Bark. I have since worked as a local journalist for publications in San Diego, Los Angeles, New York City and the Middle East. I'm currently a senior product manager for Patch.

This article originally appeared on the Healdsburg Patch
By Ned Parker

(Reuters) - The family of Lee Creely, an inmate who died 17 months ago in Savannah, Georgia, filed a lawsuit against the jails county administrators and its health care provider this week, accusing the detention center and its medical staff of negligent care.

Creely, 34, was arrested on a probation violation on Sept. 3, 2020 for not reporting his change of address the previous month. Three nights later, Chatham County Detention Center staff found Creely dead, with his hands stiffened in rigor mortis, according to jails records reviewed by Reuters.

Reuters had first reported on Creely and the Chatham County Detention Center as part of a 2020 investigation into mortality and health care at more than 500 jails nationwide over a decade. The Chatham County Detention Center counted at least 16 inmate deaths from 2014 to 2020.

This jail has been and continues to be a death factory. The security operation is run terribly and the for-profit medical providers that they have brought in consistently fail to deliver necessary care to people, the Creely familys attorney, William Claiborne, told Reuters.

The lawsuit, which includes counts of wrongful death and denial of access to medical care, alleges that the jails medical provider, CorrectHealth LLC, did not provide medications or regularly monitor Creely, who was withdrawing from heroin and Xanax. CorrectHealth had prescribed Creely medications to manage his drug withdrawal, but only delivered those daily medications on his second day in custody, according to the family and jail records reviewed by Reuters.

The lawsuit, filed Wednesday in the Georgia court system, also claims that the jails officers had not carried out regular checks on Creelys cell. Shortly after Creelys death, the sheriffs department had fired five officers for allegedly failing to carry out security checks every 30 minutes in Creelys jail wing. One officer was arrested for allegedly writing falsely in logbooks that he checked inmates cells 10 times over two and half days, but charges were later dropped.

Story continues

Chatham County Sheriff John Wilcher declined to comment on the lawsuit. CorrectHealth and Chatham Countys Attorney R. Jonathan Hart did not respond to requests for comment.

An autopsy by Georgia Bureau of Investigation has listed fentanyl intoxication as the official cause of death. The sheriffs internal affairs report on Creelys death, reviewed by Reuters, said it believed the inmate had smuggled fentanyl inside the jail, hiding it in his anal cavity, despite a physical search and a body scan.

The sheriffs report documented a series of lapses by officers. It said a guard had not alerted medical staff that Creely had vomited in his cell on his third day in jail. Just over 24 hours later, the same officer delivered a late afternoon meal to Creely that went untouched and then watched Creely breathing heavily and shaking on his bed. Soon after, the guard glanced inside the cell again and observed Creelys feet shaking. The guard told investigators he knew he should have called medical staff but failed to do so. Neither did he did brief his fellow officers, the report said. At 10:22 p.m. that same evening, jail staff discovered Creelys body.

Reuters 2020 jail investigation, Dying Inside, found that nearly two-thirds of all inmates who died in the nation's largest jails never received their day in court on the charges for which they were held.

(Reporting by Ned Parker in New York; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Former New York City Mayor Bill de Plasio is reportedly considering running for Congress.

The New York Post reported Wednesday that de Blasio is eyeing New York's 11th Congressional district, which thanks to redistricting will now include his Brooklyn neighborhood of Park Slope, along with the more conservative Staten Island, which is currently represented by Republican Rep. Nicole Malliotakis.

Malliotakis won the New York swing district by around six points in 2020, grabbing it from Democratic Rep. Max Rose, who plans to run for the seat again.

Former New York City Mayor Bill de Plasio is reportedly considering running for Congress in the 11th Congressional district of New York, which thanks to gerrymandering will be more friendly for Democrats

Republican Rep. Nicole Malliotakis currently holds the seat, which she took from former Democratic Rep. Max Rose in 2020. Rose plans to run again for the seat later this year

Rose has a better shot this year, as the district will be more blue thanks to Democrats in Albany adding more liberal neighborhoods to the 11th during the redistricting process.

Malliotakis previously lost a mayoral race against de Blasio.

De Blasio's interest in staying involved in politics is irking party members, who don't want to throw money at a protracted Democratic primary, The Post said.

'The Democratic Party is not happy about this. The last thing they want is a primary race where money is wasted and there is mudslinging,' one source in-the-know said. 'However, no one is surprised because de Blasio never listens to anyone,' the individual added.

Democrats are largely expected to lose control of the House in the November midterm races.

De Blasio had previously expressed interest in running for New York governor after nemesis Andrew Cuomo went up in flames, but announced in mid-January he wouldn't mount a run.

The governor's mansion still belongs to the Democrats, with former Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul stepping in once Cuomo resigned.

Rose, for his part, has already been running against de Blasio.

In his campaign spot in December, as he notes 'just look what people are going through,' a picture of de Blasio flashes onscreen.

Upon hearing that de Blasio might make a run for Rose's former seat, the ex-congressman sent out a note to supporters Tuesday headlined: 'De Blasio running against me (swear this isn't a joke).'

'Former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has never been my biggest fan, but now he might be my primary opponent,' Rose said, according to The Post. 'I know, I laughed at first too, but the implications aren't funny.'

On Tuesday a joke tweet went viral suggesting de Blasio would announce his campaign for the seat on Groundhog Day at the Staten Island Zoo.

The former mayor infamously dropped the Staten Island Zoo's Groundhog that goes by the nickname 'Staten Island Chuck' during a Groundhog's Day ceremony in 2014.

The Groundhog, who was actually a female named Charlotte, was found dead in her enclosure several days later from 'acute internal injuries,' The Post found.

De Blasio also attracted negative attention during another holiday, when Bravo's Andy Cohen went on a rant about the outgoing mayor when he was co-hosting CNN's New Year's Eve special with Anderson Cooper.

'The only thing that Democrats and Republicans can agree on is what a horrible mayor he has been. So, sayonara sucka!' Cohen said.

New New York City Mayor Eric Adams was sworn-in that night.

He's hosting President Joe Biden in the city Thursday.
Moscow, Feb 3 : Russian President Vladimir Putin has discussed the Ukrainian crisis and Moscow's security proposals with the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a telephone conversation.

Both leaders exchanged views on the situation in Ukraine, with Putin drawing attention to Kiev's non-compliance with the 2015 Minsk accords, Xinhua news agency quoted the Kremlin as saying.

Putin pointed to the "unwillingness" of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to formulate an adequate response to Russia's security proposals, adding that the alliance was "hiding behind" its commitment to the "open door policy," which contradicted the principle of indivisible security.

According to a statement published on the British government's website, the leaders agreed that an escalation of the situation was "in no one's interest." The prime minister stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy, and the need to include Ukraine in talks, the statement said.

The conversation came shortly after the US Department of Defense announced it would deploy another 3,000 additional troops to Germany, Poland, and Romania.

Johnson met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kiev on Tuesday, where the two discussed security issues, and in particular Russia's military buildup on the Ukrainian border.

Since November, Kiev and its Western allies have accused Russia of amassing troops near the Ukrainian border, further pointing to the possibility of an "invasion." Moscow has denied such claims, adding that it had every right to mobilize troops within its borders and defend its national security.
President Joe Biden said Thursday a global "terrorist threat" was removed when the head of the Islamic State group blew himself up after US special forces swooped on his Syrian hideout in an "incredibly challenging" nighttime helicopter raid

Washington, Feb 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Feb, 2022 ) :President Joe Biden said Thursday a global "terrorist threat" was removed when the head of the Islamic State group blew himself up after US special forces swooped on his Syrian hideout in an "incredibly challenging" nighttime helicopter raid.

"The United States military forces successfully removed a major terrorist threat to the world, the global leader of ISIS," Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, Biden said in nationally televised remarks.

The operation dealt the biggest setback to the jihadist IS organization since Qurashi's predecessor, the better-known Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was killed in a US commando raid in the same Syrian region of Idlib in 2019.

In brief, somber remarks delivered in the White House's Roosevelt Room, Biden said he ordered an assault by troops, rather than merely bombing the house where the IS leader was located, in order to minimize civilian casualties, even though this meant " much greater risk to our own people." The house contained "families, including children" and "as our troops approached to capture the terrorist, in a final act of desperate cowardice, with no regard to the lives of his own family or others in the building, he chose to blow himself up," Biden said.

Qurashi did not merely set off a suicide vest to kill himself, but detonated the entire "third floor" of the residence in the town of Atme, Biden said, "taking several members of his family with him." An Iraqi from the Turkmen-majority city of Tal Afar, Qurashi was also known as Amir Mohammed Said Abd al-Rahman al-Mawla. He replaced Baghdadi after his death in a US raid in October 2019, which also ended when Baghdadi blew himself up.

The US government had offered a $10 million reward for information leading to Qurashi, one of the world's most wanted fugitives.

The head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Rami Abdel Rahman, told AFP that "13 people at least were killed, among them four children and three women, during the operation." - Rent paid - Initial reports that followed the operation near the town of Atme had suggested the target might have been a senior jihadist close to IS' rival group Al-Qaeda.

AFP correspondents were able to visit the house thought to be where Qurashi blew himself up.

Before the identity of the raid's target emerged, the owner of the building where Qurashi was staying described his tenant as leading an ordinary life.

"This guy lived here for 11 months.

I didn't see anything suspicious or notice anything," the landlord, who gave his name only as Abu Ahmad, told AFP.

"He would come and pay the rent and leave. He lived with his three children and his wife. His widowed sister and her daughter were living above them," he said.

A witness told AFP he woke to the sound of helicopters.

"Then we heard small explosions. Then we heard stronger explosions," Abu Ali, a displaced Syrian living in Atme said, adding that US forces told residents "not to worry".

"We're just coming to this house... to rid you of the terrorists," the man quoted the US forces as saying in their loudspeaker messages.

The American helicopters took off from a military base in the Kurdish-controlled city of Kobani, Abdel Rahman said.

Elite, US-trained members of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces joined the operation, he added.

Farhad Shami, who heads the media office of the US-backed SDF, said the operation targeted "the most dangerous international terrorists".

Kurdish forces had also taken part in the raid against Baghdadi in 2019.

- Fierce battle - The two-story building of raw cinder blocks bore the scars of an intense battle, with torn window frames, charred ceilings and a partly collapsed roof.

In some of the rooms, blood was splattered high on the walls and stained the floor, littered with foam mattresses and shards from smashed doors.

US special forces have carried out several operations against high-value jihadist targets in the Idlib area in recent months.

The area, the last enclave to actively oppose the government of Bashar al-Assad, is home to more than three million people and is dominated by jihadists.

The region is mostly administered by a body loyal to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group led by former members of what was once Al-Qaeda's franchise in Syria.

Atme is home to a huge camp for families displaced by the decade-old conflict and which experts have warned was being used by jihadists as a place to hide among civilians.

On October 23, the US military announced the killing of senior Al-Qaeda leader Abdul Hamid al-Matar.

The death of the jihadist group's top leader comes two weeks after the group staged a huge attack to spring IS fighters from a Kurdish-run prison in northeastern Syria.

Hundreds were killed in what was IS's most high-profile operation since the demise of its "caliphate" nearly three years earlier.
ST. PAUL, Minn. and ANAHEIM, Calif., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxwell Healthcare Associates (MHA), the industry's leading post-acute operational, financial, technological and regulatory consulting firm, and Select Data, a leading healthcare AI and outsourcing company, announce a partnership to optimize the post-acute space with high-quality coding and clinical documentation review processes.

Select Data leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform post-acute documentation review and coding to achieve quality clinical and financial outcomes. Bringing together technology and coding excellence, the Select Data team partners with agencies to better manage the documentation review and coding process. Working with clinical and administrative staff to implement solutions that improve agency performance and profitability.

MHA's reach and influence within the post-acute space is expansive, and their unique ability to connect industry partners with strategic solutions continues as they ally with Select Data. They integrate result-orientated products and services to post-acute organizations that seek immediate solutions to their problems. With MHA's operational expertise and Select Data's advanced AI solutions, home health and hospice providers will have the necessary tools to improve their back-office operations.

CEO of MHA, Jennifer Maxwell, is confident that the partnership with Select Data will bring greater efficiencies to all their clients. "The team at Select Data is special. They have a unique solution that will enhance an agency's overall outcomes."

CEO of Select Data, Ed Buckley, is excited about the partnership and recognizes the benefit the two organizations can bring to the wider post-acute space. "Consistent and quality coding continues to be a critical piece of the agency process; it can mean the difference between a successful year or one wrought with financial and compliance hardships. With staff shortages on the rise and a shortage of employee talent, agencies need technologies and services that can solve for both of these challenges. Select Data and MHA have partnered to deliver a solution to clients who strive for excellence in today's environment."

Select Data's EVP of Sales, Mark Richardson says, "One of the greatest challenges facing our industry continues to revolve around how agencies interpret and digest large amounts of unstructured data from their referral partners. Select Data's new AI engine not only solves this challenge but transforms how agencies now review & accurately code assessments under PDGM. Partnering with Maxwell Healthcare Associates to help introduce this new technology through our services progam was a no-brainer for us.

Increased audit scrutiny, revenue recoups and regulatory requirements such as Value-Based Purchasing, PDGM and RCD are creating an intense focus on documentation and coding in an industry historically reliant on paper and manual processes. Combined with compressed reimbursements, and limited clinical resources there is an industry-wide need for process efficiency and optimization of resources  combined, MHA and Select Data offer a perfect solution.

About Select Data

Select Data is a healthcare technology and outsourcing company based in Anaheim, California founded in 1989. Leading the industry by leveraging the power of artificial intelligence (AI), Select Data's SmartCare platform is purpose-built for the challenges of post-acute care settings. Agencies trust Select Data to deliver high-quality coding, clinical documentation improvement (CDI), OASIS accuracy, and referral coding. With a commitment to quality and innovative data platform solutions, Select Data leads in driving successful outcomes.

For more information, visit https://selectdata.com/.

About Maxwell Healthcare Associates

Maxwell Healthcare Associates boasts an average of 20 years of experience in the post-acute space and has a pulse on what's relevant now in the industry. MHA can work with home health and hospice agencies to strategize, optimize and transform agencies across the nation. For more information, visit https://www.maxwellhealthcareassociates.com/.

SOURCE Maxwell Healthcare Associates
Kelli Ward, Arizona Republican Party chair, is fighting a subpoena from the House committee investigating the events leading to Jan. 6, 2020.

Arizona Republican Party Kelli Ward is fighting a subpoena aimed at getting to the bottom of what increasingly appears to be a conspiracy to overturn the results of the 2020 election so that Donald Trump could serve a second term.

Ward and her husband Michael list all manner of reasons why the House committee looking into the events leading up to the Jan. 6 attack on the nations Capitol has no business looking at their phone records.

It is, they claim, an invasion of their medical patients privacy. A violation of their First Amendment rights. An unconstitutional opportunity for Democrats to get the personal telephone numbers, IP addresses, file names of attachments, and contact details of the party members most in communication with the state chair of the party at a time when the legitimacy of the last presidential election was in dispute.

As such, the Wards' lawsuit contends, the Subpoena provides the Committee with the means to chill the First Amendment associational rights not just of the Plaintiffs but of the entire Republican Party in Arizona.

Thats something she and her fellow Republicans might have wanted to think about before they tried to steal an election.

It was a masterful plan to thwart the election

Really, it was a masterful plan.

The Wards, Senate candidate Jim Lamon and eight other Trump supporters  people who would have been empowered to cast Arizonas electoral votes had their candidate won  were to meet on Dec. 14, 2020, the same day the state's actual electors were meeting. They would sign and send to Congress a document avowing that they had been duly elected by Arizona voters to cast the states 11 electoral votes for Donald Trump.

Meanwhile, 29 Republican state legislators  including several just elected but not yet seated  would sign a three-page Joint Resolution of the 54th Legislature asking Congress to accept the 11 alternate electoral votes for Trump or to have all electoral votes nullified completely until a full forensic audit can be conducted.

Story continues

The document, dated Dec. 14 and written on letterhead with the official state seal, was circulated by Sen. Kelly Townsend, now a candidate for Congress and addressed to Vice President Mike Pence.

(Because I like to be helpful, Ive listed their names below.)

So, both those slates of electors went to the Capitol, then state Rep. Anthony Kern, another of the fake Trump electors, explained in a Dec. 15, 2020, interview with Epoch Times. And on Jan. 6, Vice President Mike Pence gets a choice on which electors hes going to choose.

It was all laid out in a two-page memo

Ah, Jan. 6, the day Congress was to tally the votes.

On that fateful day, Reps. Paul Gosar and Andy Biggs would take to the House floor, asking that the certified results of Arizona's election be thrown out. Rep. Debbie Lesko would join them in the vote. (Rep. David Schweikert voted to accept Arizonas election results, though he voted to reject Pennsylvanias vote.)

Pence, faced with two sets of electoral votes from Arizona and six other states, was then to accept the fake electoral votes and declare Donald Trump the winner. When Democrats howled, he would toss the election into the House of Representatives.

There, each states congressional delegation would cast one vote for president, and given that Republicans at that time controlled 26 states 

Voila. America becomes great once again  by putting an end to democracy.

Its all there, by the way, laid out beautifully in a two-page memo written by attorney John Eastman, who was working with Trumps legal team, and presented to Pence in an Oval Office meeting on Jan. 4. The plan was uncovered by the Washington Posts Bob Woodward and Robert Costa in their book Peril, but the actual memo outlining the step-by-step scheme was made public in September by CNN.

Ward pushed a subpoena for them, but not for her

No. 2 on Eastmans six-point plan: "When he (Pence) gets to Arizona, he announces that he has multiple slates of electors, and so is going to defer decision on that until finishing the other States. This would be the first break with the procedure set out in the (Electoral College) Act.

Increasingly, it appears the Constitution really was one heartbeat away from dying that day. Fortunately, Pence stood on principle and refused to become a co-conspirator.

So now, its all coming out and suddenly Ward  the woman who a year ago thought it was akin to sacrilege for the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to question a state Senate subpoena for ballots  is running to court to quash a subpoena issued by the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack.

The disclosure required by the Subpoena, her attorney writes, does not relate to a sufficiently important government interest because there has been no link, alleged or otherwise, between the events of the January 6th attack on the Capitol the Committee was formed to investigate, and the Plaintiffs.

Does not relate to a sufficiently important government interest?

Really, its hard not to laugh.

Except, of course, for the fact that day by day, it is becomes increasingly clear that absolutely nobody should be laughing.

Who wanted to accept those fake electors?

Here are the then-current and incoming Republican state legislators who signed the resolution asking Congress to accept Arizonas fake electors: Sen. Kelly Townsend of Mesa, Rep. Bret Roberts of Maricopa, Rep. Kevin Payne of Peoria, Rep. Mark Finchem of Oro Valley, Sen. David Farnsworth of Mesa, Sen. Sonny Borrelli of Lake Havasu City, Rep. Leo Biasiucci, of Lake Havasu City, Rep. Anthony Kern of Glendale, Rep. David Cook of Globe, Sen. Sylvia Allen of Snowflake, Rep. John Fillmore of Apache Junction, Sen. Nancy Barto of Phoenix, Rep. Travis Grantham of Gilbert, Senate Majority Leader Warren Petersen of Gilbert, Rep. Walter Blackman of Snowflake, Rep. Steve Pierce of Prescott, Rep. Shawnna Bolick of Phoenix, Rep. Tony Rivero of Peoria, Rep. Noel Campbell of Prescott.

Also concurring: Sen. David Gowan of Sierra Vista, outgoing Rep. Bob Thorpe of Flagstaff, Reps. Jacqueline Parker of Mesa, Brenda Barton of Payson, Beverly Pingerelli of Peoria, Joseph Chaplik of Scottsdale, Jake Hoffman of Queen Creek, Judy Burges of Skull Valley, Quang Nguyen of Prescott Valley and Sen. Wendy Rogers of Flagstaff.

Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on Twitter at @LaurieRoberts.

Support local journalism: Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What is Kelli Ward hiding from the House's Jan. 6 committee?
RIO RANCHO  Rio Rancho-area University of New Mexico nursing students soon wont have to venture to Downtown Albuquerque for real-world simulation training.

Instead, theyll be able to stay within city limits, graduate sooner and join the workforce sooner, as the UNM College of Nursing is expanding its simulator program to the UNM Health Sciences Center campus in Rio Rancho. Construction of the new training area is expected to be completed by the end of February.

Theres definitely still folks interested in nursing, wanting to help their fellow New Mexicans, and thats great.  We can have community members get their nursing training here locally, said Laura Burton, associate director of business operations at the Rio Rancho campus. Its a great resource for this campus. Its a big investment that the university is putting into the Health Sciences (center).

Christine Kasper, dean of UNMs College of Nursing, said the program uses sophisticated, high-fidelity mannequins for specific training involving real-life situations, such as delivering a baby or other treatment for a patient prior to getting them to a hospital.

They can be programmed in different ways, she said, adding the program expansion will allow an additional 64 Rio Rancho students to enroll.

Amy Levi, vice president of UNM Health Sciences Academic Affairs, said the mannequins are high-tech in that they possess heartbeats and breathing sounds.

They really do simulate a human being, and its a really good opportunity for students to be comfortable interacting with mannequins as though they were people, before theyre actually doing that with people, Levi said.

She said she procured $900,000 from the state legislature in 2021 to help pay for the new equipment. That money went to things like the renovated space, mannequins, an oxygen-flow system and a video-recording system for teaching purposes.

All of that is a very expensive, kind of retrofitting that needs to happen, she said. The (mannequin) that delivers babies is $50,000, and theyre very realistic. Because Im a midwife, I know exactly how helpful it is for students to practice attending a delivery before theyre actually in the birth room.

Kasper said the program allows students to work with more of that real human connection, not only carrying on with a procedure, but also in having the presence of mind to continue informing and comforting patients and their families.

The more youre familiar with the situation, the more you can provide that real crucial nursing connection with the patient and family, she said. I think this whole new area of simulation is just crucial to modern nursing education.

Burton said Rio Rancho-area students previously had to do simulator training at UNMs main campus in Albuquerque, which already had a limited number of available time slots for those sessions.

Now that training opportunities are expanding to Rio Rancho, Burton said more nursing students can prepare to enter the field and help address statewide nursing workforce shortages.
Just before Christmas, a manager for a small charity in Orkney was puzzled to discover she could not access some of her computer files. Parts of the database were locked, she saw  encrypted by a virus.

Then came the real shock. In order to unlock the files belonging to the Dial-a-Bus charity, hackers were demanding 1,000 in an untraceable Bitcoin payment.

The attack was petty, immoral  and all too predictable. (Fortunately for the disabled people who relied on this service in the remote Scottish islands, all their bookings could be found on a second computer.)

The incident, one of hundreds of ransom attacks around the world that month alone, revealed how common this kind of crime has become.

This is piracy in the digital age.

And today, with relations between Russia and the West on the brink of disintegration, cyber crime  already a serious problem  could cause far more widespread disruption across the UK in the weeks and months ahead.

Ciaran Martin, the former head of the National Cyber Security Centre has warned that there could be a spike in cyber attacks on Britain if relations between the UK and Russia worsen

On Tuesday, the Prime Minister warned Moscow that Britain will impose sanctions the moment the first Russian toe-cap crosses into Ukraine.

And here and in America, there are already warnings of blowback, including cyber-attacks, if Britain and its allies stand with Kiev against Russian incursion.

Russia is already one of the worlds most notorious centres of cyber-attacks. These criminals are not under the direct control of the Kremlin, but Vladimir Putin certainly tolerates their operations as long as they spare Russian businesses and interests.

Let me be clear: this is not the work of a lone hacker in a bedroom. It requires expensive equipment, the latest software and an army of operatives.

And if relations between Britain and Russia deteriorate further, experts warn further attacks could be unleashed against us.

Sensational commentators have conjured apocalyptic scenarios, with Russian hackers shutting down our banks or causing airliners to spiral out of the sky.

Save that for Hollywood. British banks have excellent safeguards against hacking, and even if our whole air-traffic control system suffered a black-out, pilots could still land every plane safely.

Putin is very unlikely to contemplate such attacks in any case, just as he would not order the shutdown of Britains national electricity grid  the way he twice sought to shut down power in parts of Kiev during the bitter winters of 2015 and 2016.

Pictured: Former head of the National Cyber Security Centre, Ciaran Martin is now a professor at the Blavatnik School of Government in Oxford and an adviser to Paladin Capital

Such massive, blatant retaliation by Russia to swingeing sanctions is unlikely: applying it against any Nato country would risk serious escalation.

Nevertheless, Putin will not accept sanctions without spiteful retribution. He will seek to make us pay a price, and both British and American security agencies have issued stark warnings to put computer-network managers on higher alert.

There are two key risks to our national security from Russian activity, both of which can occur without overt control by the Kremlin.

The first is contagion. During the six years I was in charge of Britains cyber security, the worst two incidents took place within six weeks of each other.

First, North Korea launched a thieving raid on international financial institutions. In May 2017, computer viruses were unleashed. They were not aimed at the UK, but they spread here  just as a physical virus did in early 2020.

The North Korean computer virus badly corrupted data stored in NHS systems, causing significant damage.

Then, six weeks later, Russia launched a cyber-assault on Ukraine, the so-called NotPetya malware attack.

This affected businesses worldwide: $250 million was knocked off the value of the shipping giant Maersk, which was forced to resort to WhatsApp to maintain communications with some of its vessels.

Mr Martin warns that Russian President Vladimir Putin (pictured) will not accept sanctions over his actions against Ukraine without spiteful retribution and the west's agencies are on alert

The chaos affected firms ranging from a major advertising agency in London to a chocolate factory in Tasmania. The total damage around the world was estimated at $10 billion  all of it accidental overspill from the attack on Ukraine.

Ransomware is the second danger we face from Russia and its army of hackers. Until last year, this was the sort of problem that many people read about but few suffered unless they happened to run major corporations  or even a small transport charity in Orkney.

Most ransomware attacks dont make the headlines, because company bosses quietly pay up. They purchase a digital key, perhaps costing millions in a cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin, to de-encrypt their data. Then they set about implementing safeguards so any future attack is unsuccessful.

Last year, these ransomware attacks became far more widespread. Several British local authorities were carefully targeted, including Redcar and Cleveland, where essential local services were disrupted. In London, the Harris Federation of academies and schools was also affected.

And Britain was not the only country put at serious risk. In Rome, a catastrophic attack threw Covid vaccination bookings into chaos. And in the eastern United States, a pipeline controlling nearly half the gas supply was shut down.

President Joe Bidens administration had to issue emergency guidance to put a halt to panic-buying and fuel-hoarding. People were reportedly filling up plastic carrier bags with petrol.

Closer to home, in Ireland last May the Health Services Executive  the commissioning system for all the Republics hospitals  was held to ransom.

Thousands of operations had to be cancelled and expectant mothers found it impossible to get any appointment, including scans, unless they were over 36 weeks pregnant.

Hackers were said to be demanding three Bitcoins for their payoff, worth roughly 100,000 at the time  though some rumours put the ransom at about 18 million.

One of the most notorious hackers, 34-year-old Maksim Yakubets (pictured), has been seen in Moscow driving a garish green Lamborghini with a personalised numberplate that read THIEF

These are exactly the sort of attacks we could expect to see more of if the situation in Ukraine deteriorates.

In Russia, some hackers flaunt the proceeds of these despicable crimes. One of the most notorious, 34-year-old playboy Maksim Yakubets, has been seen in Moscow driving a garish green Lamborghini with a personalised numberplate that read THIEF.

Yakubets has posted videos of his pet lions and tigers and bragged about his attacks on U.S. firms with his cyber outfit, Evil Corp.

Last July, Evil Corp demanded $10 million from satnav manufacturer Garmin after unleashing a virus so effective that even the firms webpage was disabled.

A BBC journalist tried to track Yakubets down in November, visiting his father for an interview. If a British reporter can do that, the Russian security police certainly could  should they choose to.

In response to pressure from Washington DC, Putin has made a few theatrical arrests. But these are merely for show. His real intention is to remind the West that Russia can allow hacking to flourish if it chooses to.

That way, he reasons, we will understand that he can indirectly cause constant disruption, while pretending that his government is not complicit in it.

Britain needs to be prepared. Our government is already doing a great deal to make us less vulnerable. An economy as large as ours will always have weak spots, but every business must be made aware of how to guard against contagion and malware.

The most important precautions are to install the latest security upgrades and to maintain back-ups in case a network goes down.

In the digital era, every business is at risk from pirates. And any future war in Ukraine will likely only galvanise Russias pirates to attack us.

Ciaran Martin is a professor at the Blavatnik School of Government in Oxford and an adviser to Paladin Capital.
Undated file photo showing Seble, the 8-week-old puppy that had been rescued and was looking to be re-homed at the Nowzad Dogs charity based in Kabul, Afghanistan. (Ben Birchall/PA)

Claims of Johnsons Involvement in Afghan Animal Airlift Absurd: UK Minister

A British Foreign Office minister has denied the claim that Prime Minister Boris Johnson played a role in the airlift of 163 cats and dogs out of Afghanistan, calling the allegation absurd.

Zac Goldsmith, Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park, told the House of Lords on Wednesday that Johnson had zero role in authorising individual evacuations from Afghanistan during Operation Pittinga two-week Royal Air Force Operation to evacuate British nationals and the UKs Afghan allies out of Kabul after the Afghan capital fell under Taliban control.

It comes a week after Parliaments Foreign Affairs Committee published leaked emails, including one from an official in Goldsmiths private office, saying the PM has just authorised the rescue of animals and shelter staff to be evacuated on Aug. 25.

Johnson has dismissed the accusation from opposition parties that he lied about his alleged intervention, calling it total rhubarbBritish slang for complete nonsense.

Paul Farthing, an ex-Marine who goes by the name Pen Farthing, airlifted 94 dogs and 69 cats from his animal shelter Nowzad from Kabul on a privately-chartered plane on Aug. 28, 2021, after waging a media battle with the British Ministry of Defence to get his flight cleared, but his staff and their family members, who were meant to travel in the same flight, had to be left behind at the time due to what he said were last-minute changes in paperwork rules made by the United States. The group crossed the land border to a neighbouring country two weeks later before flying to the UK.

Undated photo of Pen Farthing, founder of animal rescue charity Nowzad. (Nowzad/Handout via PA)

Critics have since accused the UK government of prioritising animals over other evacuees. But Farthing insisted that he had brought the animals into the airport on his own and that he was probably like the last person to enter the airport after U.S. and UK troops had obviously stopped taking people in and closed the airport.

Answering a question in the House of Lords, Goldsmith said its absurd to suggest the prime minister should be engaged in issues around the welfare of a handful of animals when the government was operating one of the biggest evacuations in British history.

I would be appalled if the prime minister had been involved in such minutiae, the Foreign Office minister said.

Goldsmith told peers that the email from his office was not sent under his instruction and that there was some confusion in the process.

It is not uncommon in Whitehallas anyone who has been a minister knowsfor decisions to be interpreted or portrayed as coming directly from one department or another or even the prime minister, even when that is not the case, he said.

In this instance, that is not relevant because the decision was made publicly and directly by the secretary of state [for defence], as he has made clear.

The minister also sought to reassure peers that animals were not prioritised over people.

Pen Farthing was on one of the very last flights to leave Afghanistan; he left on his own charter plane rather than on an RAF flight. It was not part of the evacuation effort, and the flight took place after the evacuation effort had ceased. That private plane landed in Kabul on Aug. 28. Animals were never prioritised over people at any point during the process, he said.
The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) has signed in Oman three memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with the Omani Ministry of Finance to finance several projects with a value of around $244 million.

This follows directives of Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and in response to efforts to enhance joint cooperation and exchange of expertise between the two countries, reported SPA.

The first memorandum aims at supporting SMEs through providing funds to support the loan portfolio for soft loans in various sectors with a total of $150 million, where part of this finance will be directed to establish small and medium enterprises in governorates so as to benefit from the comparative advantage and the development of every governorate.

This in addition to boosting the benefits of establishing and funding expansions for existing projects of small and medium Omani institutions in a way that guarantees the contribution of the private sector in supporting and accommodating jobseekers.

The memorandums were signed by SFD CEO Sultan bin Abdul Rahman Al-Marshad and Omani Minister of Finance Sultan bin Salem Al Habsi.

The other two memorandums seek to contribute to financing projects of developing the basic infrastructure in the Special Economic Zone in Duqm.

Welcoming the deals with SFD, Al Habsi said these agreements are a result of historical relations and close partnership between Saudi Arabia and Oman and the vision of both countries leaderships, where they will contribute to opening cooperation aspects at several levels, including supporting entrepreneurship and developing the basic infrastructure, in addition to developing economic projects.

Al Marshad stressed that the efforts of Saudi Arabia, through SFD contributions to sign these memorandums, aim at enhancing cooperation between the two countries and out of the effective role of the fund in supporting social and economic development courses in developing countries.
I go on and on about dogs, but I grew up with as many cats.

The first was Pumpkin, named not only for his orange color but also for when and where we found him: just before Halloween at a farm that was selling gourds about to become jack-o-lanterns. There was a litter of kittens there, not all of them had been claimed, and Mom was as charmed by them as my siblings and I were. Dad had no say. That was the case with every pet we foisted on him from then on.

After Pumpkin came Nicky and then Sable, a black cat. Sable gave birth and we kept one of the females, Boo. Somewhere along the way  Im not clear on the precise timeline or overlap  there was also a regal male calico named Cupid, whose purr was louder than the whir of the noisiest kitchen appliance. It was seismic: a four-legged earthquake. How to bring joy to the people around me could be a mystery, but Cupid was easily elated. I just let him onto my lap and stroked the back of his head.

I mention him and Pumpkin and the others partly because of the news last week that the Bidens had welcomed a cat into the White House. But its also my way of acknowledging and saying thanks to the many cat lovers who read this newsletter.

From the first time I regaled you with stories about my dog, Regan, to the 100th, youve written to me to say that while youre not dog people, Regan seems pleasant and pretty enough and youre glad she makes me happy. You havent said: When do we cat lovers get our day? You havent groused that you just dont understand those of us who are loopily pooch-struck, even though you may indeed find us baffling. You havent argued that I and my dog-loving kind are misguided and that cats are superior. You havent turned this into a contest and competition.

Which is to say: You havent made this like so much else in American life. And I draw at least a small measure of hope from that.

I realize that I can extrapolate only so far from cats and dogs. I realize that many people love and live with both! (Shall we consider them animal-minded analogues of swing voters?) But on matters zoological or ideological, you can choose to retreat to your corners or to venture out in search of common ground and common courtesy.
Even living in Chichihualco, a small city in the south Mexican state of Guerrero, Jose Ortiz said he's always known business, mostly through his mother.

"She was always taking chorizo to Acapulco, and when she'd get there, she would finish selling it and buy fish and shrimp and everything and take it back to our hometown, since we were living more in the mountain region," he said. "So she was always doing business. We've always been business-oriented."

Now in Fremont, Ortiz's family opened Epicentro, a Mexican grocery market and general store in the downtown area. Recently, he also opened Los Mezcales, a bar and grill just down the street.

Ortiz and other Hispanic people have found success in the Fremont community through their businesses, including stores and restaurants centered on the culture of their home country.

As of the 2020 United States census, 15.2% of Fremont's population was Hispanic or Latino, up from 11.9% in 2010.

And with the growing population, Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tara Lea said, Hispanic-owned businesses have expanded throughout the community, a trend she called "fantastic."

"I know when I got here five years ago, there were a few obviously, but nothing like we have today," she said. "So we're very fortunate to have so many of those business owners branching out and starting their businesses right here in Fremont."

Jose Ortiz's journey

Born in Chichihualco, Ortiz's family, particularly his mother's side, was always involved in business, because his mother and grandmother would make and sell milkshakes, torta and chorizo, a recipe that has now been passed down to him.

At a very young age, Ortiz moved with his parents to the United States, where his brother and sister were born.

"I think it was just the fact that our family that was doing good here, and my parents decided to come out here and try it out, and we ended up staying," he said.

Ortiz and his family lived in Colorado for around 12 years before returning to Chichihualco, where he met his future wife. The family also had their own business, a liquor store, in the city.

But when he was 18, Ortiz and his family decided to return to the United States after spending several years in Mexico.

"The factors of us coming back, it was just the situation, bad situations down there and everything," he said.

Settled in Fremont, Ortiz's father and wife began Epicentro at 248 N. Main St. as a clothing store that also provided money transfer and check cashing services.

"After a while, my parents started putting in the meat market, started putting more of a grocery: vegetables, chips and everything," he said. "It kind of turned into what it is now over the years."

After his mother died of cancer, Ortiz quit his job to help run the family business. That was about three years ago.

Ortiz said he's running Los Mezcales restaurant at 210 N. Main St. along with his brother.

"I wanted something for them to grow also here in the community, as well as me," he said. "We wanted to do something more."

For Ortiz, opening Los Mezcales is a way to show his culture in an original fashion, just the way he cooks at home, which he said has proved popular in the community.

"Where we're from, Guerrero, we have mountains to deserts to beaches to everything in one little state," he said. "So we have numbers of food items to bring, and that's what I want to bring."

Berta Quintero's story

Like Ortiz, Reinita Restaurant owner Berta Quintero was born outside of the country, coming from Guatemala City around 20 years ago.

"I was only thinking of work and making some money," she said. "But I never thought I could have everything I have right now."

Quintero began work at Hormel Foods upon arriving in Fremont, where she lived with her husband, who was from Honduras.

"I worked at Hormel for almost 10 years, and then I decided I needed to do something with my life," she said. "And my husband and I started talking about doing some business, so we started with the ice cream shop."

In 2016, Quintero opened Heladeria Reinita in Fremont with her family, including her mother, Reina Rivera.

Quintero said it was always their dream to serve food, which came true with Reinita Restaurant at 414 N. Main St. in October 2020.

"We can't believe it, because we opened when the pandemic was really strong," she said. "So it's been one year already, and we're still here."

In December 2021, Quintero was appointed as a member of the Downtown Business Improvement District Board, which was approved by the Fremont City Council. The BID plans improvement projects in downtown Fremont to assist area businesses.

Quintero said she almost couldn't believe her ears when Mayor Joey Spellerberg called asking her to join.

"I couldn't believe it, and I almost cried, because I never thought I could do this," she said. "But my mom showed me when you do something good, a lot of good things come."

The community's response

Since Epicentro's opening 12 years ago, Ortiz said, the store has received an extremely positive response from Fremont's Hispanic community.

"We might be a little bit more expensive than Walmart, but if you compare our vegetables and stuff like that, it can be a little bit more higher quality," he said. "And the Hispanic community always wants familiar speech and everything."

When she opened Reinita Restaurant, Quintero said, she was excited about the opportunity for Fremont's Hispanic population, which she believed would make up most of her customers.

"But 90% of the people who come to my restaurant are American," she said. "And I'm so happy with that, because the community supports the restaurant, and the Spanish people, too, and that's a good thing."

Regardless of race, Ortiz said, the Fremont community has found comfort in Epicentro, including taking suggestions for taco meat.

"I'll show them what to do, what to put on them and everything, and they come back," he said. "I think it's just giving that to try something new, it's just that little step."

As Fremont's Hispanic population grows, Lea said she's glad to see areas like Epicentro and Reinita Restaurant provide services and goods that other areas in town might not have.

"Also, it's great for people who arent familiar with those businesses or the culture and to go in and learn more about some of the things that they celebrate or they do or products that they can get here now in Fremont," she said. "It's just fantastic."

Working hand in hand

As community partners, Lea said Hispanic-owned businesses have been fantastic to work with because of their motivation to grow and make things happen.

"It's fun to meet with them and take just a little bit of their energy and bring it to the chamber," she said. "They've got so much going on that we're just happy to be a small part of that."

Quintero said she's thankful for Fremont's support, which she said has made the opening of her businesses so much easier with the hard work that she's put in.

"The Fremont community, they love everything we do, so I think they're an easy people," she said. "But you need to do everything right if you want Fremont to support your business."

Along with more processing plants opening in Fremont, Ortiz said, he's excited to see opportunities for jobs and business for the community's Hispanic population.

"Even fixing up streets and everything, there's more income coming into Fremont," he said. "The more income there is coming to Fremont, the more stuff Fremont's going to be able to do."
Researchers Identify Two Century Old Shipwreck as Captain Cooks Endeavour

Archaeologists are confident that based on the evidence currently available, a shipwreck that has languished underwater for over two centuries is Captain James Cooks Endeavour.

I am satisfied that this is the final resting place of one of the most important and contentious vessels in Australias maritime history, Kevin Sumption, the director of the Australian National Maritime Museum, announced on Feb. 3.

The last pieces of the puzzle had to be confirmed before I felt able to make this call, he said of the wreck discovered beneath the waves of a busy U.S. harbour in Rhode Island.

Since 1999 archaeologists have been investigating the shipwreck site.

They are now convinced they have found the Endeavour as details such as the structure and shape of the remains match the 18th-century plans of the original ship.

Sumption also paid tribute to the team at Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project (RIMAP) headed by Kathy Abbass for their ongoing commitment to the site and its history.

However, Abbass said that the announcement was premature and that despite the shipwreck being consistent with what might be expected of the Endeavour, the data was inconclusive.

There are many unanswered questions that could overturn such an identification, she said in a statement.

Sumption noted that they were still in the process of finalising their report and were looking forward to it being peer-reviewed and published in due course.

The archaeological work continues, and we anticipate further discussion of the evidence over the coming months. We look forward to continuing the work in Rhode Island as we move to the next phase, he said.

(Stephen Schmidt/Australian National Maritime Museum)

The Endeavour landed in Australia on April 29, 1770. It was the first European vessel to reach the west coast of Australia, setting in motion events that culminated in the British colonisation. But the location of the historic ship had been a mystery for centuries.

During the American War of Independence, the British sunk the ship along with four other vessels in 1778 to create a blockade in the harbour.

This meant that the chances of finding artefacts that would provide an immediate identification were very unlikely.

Thats because anything of value wouldve been stripped out of that ship before it was sunk, said marine archaeologist James Hunter who was tasked with building a 3D model of the Endeavour.

But what has been recovered up to this point is indicative of an 18th-century time frame, Hunter added.

Only around 15 percent of the vessel remains, and the focus is now on what can be done to protect and preserve it.

The museum continues to work closely with maritime experts in Rhode Island and with the Australian, Rhode Island, and U.S. Governments, Sumption said.

Its an important historical moment, as this vessels role in exploration, astronomy and science applies not just to Australia, but also to Aotearoa New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.

A general view of the mouth of the Endeavour River in Cooktown, Australia, Feb. 2, 2016. (Caden Pearson/The Epoch Times)

An original anchor from the Endeavour that was salvaged in the 1970s is housed at the Cooktown Museum, formerly the James Cook Museum, in Cooktown in Far North Queensland, Australia.

In 1770, Cook and his crew spent around 48 days repairing the Endeavour near the mouth of the Endeavour River after running aground on the Great Barrier Reef.

During this time Cook had interactions with the local Guugu Yimidhirr Aboriginal people from whom Cook recorded the word for the bouncing marsupial animal, the gangarru, which we know today as the kangaroo.

Caden Pearson contributed to this report.
People gather on Parliament Hill as the trucker convoy protesting COVID-19 mandates and restrictions stages demonstrations in Ottawa on Jan. 29, 2022. (Jonathan Ren/The Epoch Times)

Only 1 in 4 Approve of Liberal Governments Handling of the Trucker Convoy Protest, Poll Shows

A new survey shows that only a quarter of respondents approve of how the Liberal government has handled the trucker convoy protest against government-imposed COVID-19 mandates and restrictions.

The survey, published by Innovative Research Group on Feb. 1, says that only 24 percent of respondents approve of the Liberals response to the issue, while 34 percent disapprove. The remaining 42 percent neither approve nor disapprove, or dont know.

The demonstration began as a protest by truck drivers against the federal governments mandate for truckers crossing the Canada-U.S. border to be vaccinated for COVID-19. But the movement has since grown, attracting supporters opposing various government-imposed mandates and restrictions.

When it comes to the Conservatives, the poll showed that only 12 percent approve of their response, while 36 percent disapprove. The remaining 52 percent neither approve nor disapprove, or dont know.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has dismissed the protesters as fringe minority holding unacceptable views. However, the poll, conducted between Jan. 27 and Jan. 31, shows that his views are in opposition to a large segment of Canada.

According to the poll, less than half of respondents (46 percent) oppose the protest.

The poll found 31 percent of respondents say they support the convoy protest, while 18 percent say they neither support nor oppose it, and another 5 percent say they dont know.

Among the proponents, support is highest in Alberta and Ontario at 41 percent and 38 percent, while Atlantic Canada and B.C. are the lowest at 16 percent and 24 percent respectively.

The news of the protest convoy in Canada has captured national and international headlines over the past few weeks. The first convoy left the West Coast on Jan. 23, and was joined by other convoys from different parts of the country, converging in Ottawa on Jan. 29. The protest continues, as many say they wont leave Ottawa until the mandates are lifted.

The trucker protest in Canada has inspired other similar protests around the world, including in Australia.

A previous survey by Angus Reid released on Jan. 31 said that a slim majority (54 percent) of Canadians are in favour of ending the pandemic restrictionsan increase of nearly 15 percentage points from the results of a similar poll conducted in January two weeks earlier, which showed 40 percent in favour.

Innovative Research Group conducted the online survey with a randomized sample of 635 Canadians who are members of its national research panel and additional respondents from Dynata, a leading provider of online samples. The margin of error cannot be calculated as the sample is one of a representative type instead of random probability-based.
Government of Canada to help more Canadians obtain record suspensions with support for community groups

Government of Canada to help more Canadians obtain record suspensions with support for community groups

Canada NewsWire

OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 3, 2022

OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - There are countless Canadians who've served their sentences and are living law-abiding lives, yet continue to face stigma and barriers because they still have a criminal record. Furthermore, lingering criminal records have led to the overrepresentation of Indigenous, Black and other racialized individuals in our criminal justice system. That's why the Government of Canada is taking action to help more people break free of this stigma by making record suspensions fairer, cheaper and more accessible to everyone.

To help more Canadians benefit from record suspensions and move on with their lives, the Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Marco Mendicino, today announced new support for organizations that assist in obtaining suspensions. This call for applications for a new contribution stream within the Grants and Contributions Program to National Voluntary Organizations involves federal funding of $18 million over the next four years, which will go to organizations active in corrections, conditional release and community reintegration.

This funding will help community-based organizations support those applying for record suspensions in navigating the process, ensuring they have access to the right information and resources. It will also help reduce reliance on some private, for-profit companies that can give misleading information and charge high fees. This call for applications is open until March 18, 2022

Today's announcement builds on the Government of Canada's progress in tackling systemic inequities in the criminal justice system. On December 21, 2021, it announced the reduction of record suspension application fees from $657.77 to $50. The government also continues to explore the automated sequestering of some criminal records for those living crime-free, in consultation with provinces, territories and municipalities, as well as other key criminal justice stakeholders.

Story continues

Quote(s)

"For too many law-abiding Canadians who've served their sentences, a criminal record carries a stigma that can block them from housing, employment, education and more. Helping more of them obtain a record suspension removes a major barrier that stands in the way of fully reentering society. This is just one of the many ways that we're making our communities safer through a justice system that's more effective and fair for all."

- The Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Public Safety

Quick Facts

Record suspensions help remove the stigma of a criminal record so that people with criminal records who have completed their sentences and are living law-abiding lives can access meaningful employment, housing, education, and volunteer opportunities, which are key to safe and successful reintegration as productive members of society. This improves public safety through reduced re-offending and victimization.

A person can apply for a record suspension directly with the Parole Board of Canada. They do not need to use a lawyer or third party service provider.

Associated Links

SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada
Undated photo of Munira Mirza, director of the No. 10 Policy Unit, arriving at 10 Downing Street in London. (Yui Mok/PA)

Top Johnson Aide Quits Over Prime Ministers Scurrilous Attack on UK Opposition Leader

Downing Street policy chief Munira Mirza has resigned over Prime Minister Boris Johnsons failure to apologise for making a scurrilous accusation against Labour Party leader Keir Starmer in Parliament.

In a heated exchange in the House of Commons on Jan. 31, as Johnson came under pressure over alleged COVID-19 lockdown breaches on Downing Street, he accused the opposition leader, a former chief state prosecutor, of using his time for prosecuting journalists and failing to prosecute Jimmy Savile, one of the UKs most egregious sex offenders, before his death in 2011.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson leaves Downing Street with political adviser Munira Mirza (L) for a Cabinet meeting at the Foreign Office in London on Dec. 15, 2020. (Peter Summers/Getty Images)

As director of public prosecutions, Starmer apologised in 2013 on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for failing to prosecute Savile. But theres no evidence that he had any personal role in the failure.

Amid criticisms from both opposition and Conservative MPs, Johnson backed down on Feb. 3, acknowledging that Starmer had nothing to do personally with those decisions.

But according to Mirzas resignation letter, as reported by The Spectator, the prime minister stopped short of issuing the apology that she had requested.

I believe it was wrong for you to imply this week that Keir Starmer was personally responsible for allowing Jimmy Savile to escape justice, Mirza wrote in the letter to Johnson. There was no fair or reasonable basis for that assertion. This was not the usual cut and thrust of politics; it was an inappropriate and partisan reference to a horrendous case of child sex abuse.

You tried to clarify your position today but, despite my urging, you did not apologise for the misleading impression you gave.

You are a better man than many of your detractors will ever understand which is why it is so desperately sad that you let yourself down by making a scurrilous accusation against the Leader of the Opposition.

Mirza was one of Johnsons most loyal allies and had worked with him for more than a decade.

Her departure is a fresh blow to Johnson, who has been mired in a political crisis triggered by a series of allegations of parties and other gatherings being held on Downing Street, including in his flat, in violation of CCP virus restrictions imposed by his own government.

He has faced calls for his resignation not only from opposition parties but also from 13 of his own backbench Conservative MPs.

A spokesman said Downing Street was very sorry to see Mirza quit and was grateful for her service and contribution to government.

Conservative MP Andrew Griffith has been appointed as minister for policy and head of the Prime Ministers Policy Unit.

PA Media contributed to this report.
Security personnel of Pakistan's Frontier Corps patrol near the newly inaugurated Badini Trade Terminal Gateway, a border crossing point between Pakistan and Afghanistan at the Pakistan's border town of Qila Saifullah in the southwestern province of Balochistan on September 16, 2020. (Banaras Khan/AFP via Getty Images)

Attacks on Pakistan Military Bases Kill Seven Soldiers, 13 Insurgents: Army

QUETTA, PakistanInsurgents armed with bombs and guns attacked two Pakistani military bases overnight, killing seven soldiers while losing 13 of their own men, the army said on Thursday, in the latest violence in the resource-rich southwestern Balochistan province where China is investing.

The attacks came hours before Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Beijing for the opening of the Winter Olympics, where he will have meetings with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and other leaders.

Our armed forces repulsed the big attacks, Khan and Minister of Interior Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said in separate statements.

The army said the attacks were simultaneous and coordinated, and that some of the attackers were still encircled by the military.

Ethnic Baloch guerrillas have been fighting the government for decades for a separate state, saying the central government unfairly exploits Balochistans rich gas and mineral resources.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) group claimed responsibility in a statement sent to a Reuters reporter, saying its suicide bombers had detonated explosive-laden vehicles at the entrances of the bases killing more than 100 soldiers.

A security official dismissed that figure as utterly rubbish.

Last week, the insurgents killed 10 soldiers in an attack on a post near the port of Gwadar on the Arabian Sea, the heaviest casualty toll for the army in the Balochistan insurgency in years.

Islamabad blames arch-rival India for supporting the insurgency, a charge Delhi denies, and says such anti-Pakistan groups often use neighboring Afghanistan to plan attacks.

As per initial investigation, intelligence agencies have intercepted communications between terrorists and their handlers in Afghanistan and India, the Pakistani army said.

A Taliban government spokesman Bilal Karimi denied it. In our country, nothing has happened yet, if anything has happened in Pakistan it is their internal issue, he told Reuters.

Indian external affairs ministry didnt respond to a request for comment.

China Concerns

Baloch guerrillas usually attack gas projects, infrastructure, and the security forces. They also attack Chinese projects, and occasionally kill Chinese workers despite Pakistani assurances that it is doing everything it can to protect the projects.

China is involved in the development of the Gwadar port and other projects in the province as part of a $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is part of Beijings Belt and Road initiative.

Khan and his team would be exploring economic opportunities on the visit to Beijing, including trying to persuade Chinese businesses to set up in Pakistan, Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin said.

By Gul Yousafzai and Asif Shahzad
ELKO  An Elko man accused of pointing a knife at a woman was sentenced to 90 days in jail after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit assault with a deadly weapon.

Christian B. Wulfenstein, 21, was originally arrested on a charge of assault with a deadly weapon after a woman told police that a man had taken both of her mountain bikes. Backyard surveillance video showed the man in a face mask.

The woman said she later saw the man walking down the alley behind her residence. When she confronted him, the suspect allegedly pulled out a knife and pointed it in her direction from approximately 5-6 feet away, according to the police report.

Police later saw a man matching the description walk behind a trailered boat on Grant Avenue. A knife was found on the boat.

Wulfenstein was arrested and released on bail, then arrested again on Jan. 17 on a warrant for failure to appear in court.
Embattled radio presenter Blessed Godsbrain Smart (Captain Smart) has been captured on an amateur footage cracking jokes with police officers while in cells.

The Onua TV/FM host, who is being held together with another suspect for extortion, could be heard guffawing alongside his cellmate as they interacted with a police officer who was checking on them at the Greda Estates police station in Accra.

Captain Smart has been charged with two counts of extortion.

They are in relation to 23 December 2021 and 12 January 2022 incidents where he allegedly extorted $10,000 and GHS50,000 from one Ahmed Kwabena Nkrumah, a businessman amidst threats, respectively.

One other person, Eric Daniels Dadzie Copperfield, also known as GH Boy, is facing a charge of abetment along with Captain Smart.

The two have both pleaded not guilty and been granted a bail of GHS50,000.

The court presided over by His Honour K.K. Obiri-Yeboah, in addition to the bail bond, said the two accused persons should produce two sureties who must be family members or relatives.

The prosecution has been ordered to serve the accused persons with disclosures.

The case has been adjourned to 3 March 2022.

The prosecution was led by Detective Inspector Frederick Sarpong while the accused persons were represented by Mr Martin Kpebu.

Despite their bail, however, the two are being held in police cells.

Video credit: Onua TV

Classfmonline.com
The Village of Surprise has contracted with Butler County for the assistance of the Butler County Sheriff's Office with nuisance abatement.

The contract, approved and signed on Jan. 18, outlines the terms for the sheriff's office to provide certain law enforcement services to the village on an "as needed" basis for certain law enforcement services at $22.04 per hour.

The contract is good for one year, though it is set to auto-renew unless terminated by either the village or the county.

Under the contract, the sheriff's department agrees to attend to "verbal or written complaints or requests for special assignments in the Village."

The contract covers such services as enforcement of Nebraska statutes and enforcement of "Municipal Ordinances of the Village which are mutually considered to be of a law enforcement nature."

"General animal at large complaints will not be the responsibility of the Sheriff," the contract says.

The contract also makes it clear that the village is responsible for "all prosecutions and costs...arising from violations of Municipal Ordinances."

In exchange, the village has agreed to pay the county $22.04 per hour of service, in addition to applicable overtime and holiday pay.

"We will keep a log on it. Once they make a call into us, that log automatically starts...and whatever time we spend down there, that's how much we bill for. (A member of the department) does that billing out," Butler County Sheriff Tom Dion said at the Jan. 18 meeting where the Butler County Board of Supervisors approved the contract.

Surprise isn't the first village in the county to have entered into such a contract with the county.

"It's the same kind of contract we have with Dwight and Octavia. ... We just haven't had any calls...since we've had the contract with either one, and Dwight's been in place in for years. We just don't get the calls, and same way with Octavia," Dion said.

Dion said his officers do regular patrol and that there have been cases in those communities, but clarified that he was referring to the municipal ordinance violations alluded to in the contracts, where a village specifically requests an "additional" service as outlined in its contract.

Based on conversation at a Jan. 9 Surprise Village Board meeting, the contract could be a way for the village to get some help enforcing its ordinances on neglected, or "nuisance," properties.

Generally-speaking, nuisance abatement procedures start with documentation of properties that are in violation of established ordinances. Then, non-compliant property owners are notified of their property's non-compliance and informed of any possible penalties, but are given a set period of time to resolve the violations.

If nothing is done, a municipality or enforcement entity can move forward with official violation declarations and abatement procedures, in which they may ultimately have the authority to physically go onto the property and "abate" -- or remove -- the offending structure or items. Property owners may be held responsible for costs associated with abatement.

Property owners may also be prosecuted under Nebraska statute.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/berlin-refused-to-discuss-ways-to-solve-crisis-around-rt-de-moscow-source-says-1092729087.html

Berlin Refused to Discuss Ways to Solve Crisis Around RT DE, Moscow Source Says

Berlin Refused to Discuss Ways to Solve Crisis Around RT DE, Moscow Source Says

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Proposals were made to German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her visit to Moscow on how to solve a crisis around RT DE in Germany... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T19:14+0000

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2022-02-03T19:26+0000

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"During the visit of the German foreign minister to Moscow and her conversation with [Russian Foreign Minister Sergey] Lavrov, the Russian side proposed ways out of the crisis created by the German authorities in relation to RT DE, but the German side refused to discuss them," the source said.Earlier on Thursday, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that Russia was shutting down Deutsche Welle's broadcast in the country in response to Germany's measures against RT DE. According to the ministry, the Moscow bureau of DW must be closed by 9 am on Friday, 4 February. All employees of the Russian bureau will lose their accreditation, it added. "We strongly protest this absurd reaction from the Russian government and will take legal action to challenge the announced measures," DW CEO Peter Limbourg said.Russia has repeatedly warned that it would take retaliatory measures against German media accredited in Russia in response to unjustified restriction of RT DE broadcast in Germany. On 1 February, Germany's media regulator banned the broadcasting of RT DE in the country, stating that the broadcast organisers did not have the necessary permission. Moscow insists the ban was imposed despite RT DE having a license. RT said it would appeal the decision in court.

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The government has agreed to convene an emergency summit of the entire pig supply chain as the sector's crisis deepens.

Defra farming minister Victoria Prentis today agreed to the joint National Pig Association (NPA) and NFU request for a roundtable event amid a worsening crisis.

It comes as the pig backlog is now estimated to be well in excess of 170,000 due to a lack of butchers in pork processing plants, as a result of the pandemic and Brexit.

Tens of thousands of healthy pigs have been culled on farms across the country by increasingly desperate producers who have run out of space.

NPA chairman Rob Mutimer and NFU president Minette Batters wrote to Defra last week, calling for it to "arrange a summit of the entire pig supply chain so that we can agree a plan to get these pigs off farms and onto peoples plates".

Responding, Mrs Prentis agreed that "convening a roundtable bringing together producers, processors, and retailers to discuss the ongoing challenges faced by the sector would be helpful". The date will be arranged shortly.

She acknowledged that recruitment of butchers via the temporary visa route, which closed to applications on 31 December, had taken longer than initially expected.

But she said that processors could still recruit butchers via the UK's new points-based immigration system, which was introduced last month.

The Defra minister also acknowledged that uptake of both the Private Storage Aid (PSA)and Slaughter Incentive Payment (SIP) schemes had been lower than anticipated.

But she said she believed the extensions and changes to the schemes "if taken up by the processors, will help to further reduce the current backlog of pigs on farm".

The NPA has been calling for a third industry crisis summit for some time, amid growing concern over the future of the industry as the crisis deepens, both in terms of the backlog and the dire financial situation.

Challenging market conditions, exacerbated by the backlog costs, record feed costs and falling pig prices, mean farmers have now been losing around 25 per pig for nearly a year.

Mr Mutimer welcomed Defra's announcement today: We are pleased that Defra has finally agreed to our joint request with the NFU for a crisis summit.

We desperately need to get everyone together, so we can explain just how serious things are on farm  many people are now utterly desperate  and to try and find urgent solutions to get things moving, and also to share the burden of all this more evenly."

He added: The current projection is that if things dont change, we are not going to start seriously eating into the backlog until late-spring-early summer. That, Im afraid, will simply be too late for many pig farmers.

"This is a crisis unfolding in front of our eyes  and we must act collectively now to save the British pig industry.
Protesters gather at Hyde Park during the 'Women's Wave' March in Sydney, Australia on January 20, 2019, to draw attention to issues of domestic violence against women in Australia and drive cultural change. (Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

Australian Government Pledges $19 Million to Support South Australian Domestic Violence Victims

The Federal Government is increasing support for South Australian women and children experiencing domestic violence (DV) through a $19 million (US$13.54 million) funding boost.

According to a media release on Wednesday, the new funding will support the continuation of some existing programs, while the South Australian (SA) Government and DV sector will work together to determine other areas where funding is most needed.

This comes after an initial $9.8 million (US$6.98 million) was spent on supporting at-risk South Australians during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

That funding enabled the SA Government to fast-track several new DV support and intervention initiatives during the pandemic, including opening new regional safety hubs in Mt Gambier, Whyalla, Port Pirie, Goolwa, and Port Lincoln; delivering a new Safe and Secure Housing program offering support and information to help women and their children move out of temporary crisis accommodation into safe, long-term accommodation; and funding for programs to support children of DV victims, including specific programs for Aboriginal women and their children.

In addition, a 24/7 mens referral service hotline and wrap-around support service for perpetrators was set up, as was the Break the Cycle advertising campaign, which aims to stop DV before its too late.

Human Services Minister Michelle Lensink said the new $19 million funding injection would allow the Marshall Government to roll out further support for at-risk South Australians.

Supporting at-risk women and children and stopping the insidious scourge of domestic, family and sexual violence remains our priority, Lensink said.

This multi-million funding boost means more emergency accommodation services, more individualised support for domestic violence survivors, more capacity to provide wrap-around services to vulnerable children and young people, more perpetrator interventions, and more support services to enable women to remain safely in their home.

Assistant Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Prevention, Carolyn Power, welcomed the additional funding, saying the new $19 million in funding is a boost to the SA Governments own $21 million (US$14.96 million) investment towards a range of new DV measures to support women and children in South Australia.

Every South Australian deserves to live safely and free from violence. This funding will help ensure support and help will continue to be available when people need it, she said.

The new funding is part of the $260 million (US$185.24 million) National Partnership Agreement on Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses over 2021-23, which aims to boost the capacity of frontline services by ensuring greater cooperation and shared responsibility between the Commonwealth, states and territories in delivering targets and objectives.

According to the most recent Australian Bureau of Statistics, 1 in 6 Australian women aged 15 and over have experienced physical or sexual violence by a current or previous partner, 1 in 4 have experienced emotional abuse, and 1 in 5 have experienced sexual violence.

In the same categories for men, the statistics are 1 in 16, 1 in 6, and 1 in 20, respectively.

The statistics also show that around 1 in 14 children under the age of 15 have experienced physical abuse by a family member, while 1 in 30 has experienced sexual abuse by a family member.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Vitamin D is most often recognized for its role in bone health, but low levels of the supplement have been associated with a range of autoimmune, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases. Early on in the pandemic health officials began to encourage people to take vitamin D, as it plays a role in promoting immune response and could protect against COVID-19.

In a study published today in the journal PLOS ONE researchers from the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University in Safed, Israel and the Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, Israel show a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 severity and mortality.

The study is among the first to analyze vitamin D levels prior to infection, which facilitates a more accurate assessment than during hospitalization, when levels may be lower secondary to the viral illness.

The records of 1,176 patients admitted between April 2020 and February 2021 to the Galilee Medical Center (GMC) with positive PCR tests were searched for vitamin D levels measured two weeks to two years prior to infection.

Patients with vitamin D deficiency (less than 20 ng/mL) were 14 times more likely to have severe or critical case of COVID than those with more than 40 ng/mL.

Strikingly, mortality among patients with sufficient vitamin D levels was 2.3%, in contrast to 25.6% in the vitamin D deficient group.

The study adjusted for age, gender, season (summer/winter), chronic diseases, and found similar results across the board highlighting that low vitamin D level contributes significantly to disease severity and mortality.

"Our results suggest that it is advisable to maintain normal levels of vitamin D. This will be beneficial to those who contract the virus," says Dr. Amiel Dror, of the Galilee Medical Center and Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University, who led the study. "There is a clear consensus for vitamin D supplementation on a regular basis as advised by local health authorities as well as global health organizations."

Dr. Amir Bashkin, an Endocrinologist who participated in the current study, adds that "This is especially true for the COVID-19 pandemic when adequate vitamin D has an added benefit for the proper immune response to respiratory illness."

"This study contributes to a continually evolving body of evidence suggesting that a patient's history of vitamin D deficiency is a predictive risk factor associated with poorer COVID-19 clinical disease course and mortality," said study co-author Prof. Michael Edelstein, of the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University. "It is still unclear why certain individuals suffer severe consequences of COVID-19 infection while others don't. Our finding adds a new dimension to solving this puzzle."

Explore further Is there a connection between vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19?

More information: Amiel A. Dror et al, Pre-infection 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels and association with severity of COVID-19 illness, PLOS ONE (2022). Journal information: PLoS ONE Amiel A. Dror et al, Pre-infection 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels and association with severity of COVID-19 illness,(2022). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263069
MILAN (Reuters) - Stellantis and unions have agreed to cut 714 jobs at the carmaker's operations in Italy this year through voluntary redundancies, the UILM union said on Thursday.

The deal is similar to one reached by the company in France earlier this week to axe a total of 2,600 jobs via voluntary departures over two years.

The group, which was formed one year ago through the merger of Fiat Chrysler and Peugeot maker PSA, is seeking to reduce excess capacity in Europe and adapt production to an expected shift in demand towards electric vehicles (EVs).

Stellantis currently employs around 55,000 people in Italy.

Voluntary redundancies had been part of an agreement reached by unions and Stellantis last year but many had not happened, UILM said in a statement, resulting in a new agreement for this year. The union added that departing workers would benefit from company-provided incentive schemes and public subsidies.

Gianluca Ficco, UILM's top representative for the automotive sector, said Stellantis would allow workers, where possible, to move internally to make redundancies compatible with production needs.

A Stellantis spokesperson confirmed the information provided by UILM and said the company had no further comment.

(Reporting by Giulio Piovaccari; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
By Philip Pullella and Zuzanna Szymanska

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - A prominent liberal cardinal who leads a body representing European bishops has called for "fundamental revision" in Catholic teaching on homosexuality, and said it is wrong to fire Church workers for being gay.

The remarks by Luxembourg Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich to the German Catholic news agency KNA were among the most direct calls ever by a Roman Catholic leader for change in teaching on one of the most controversial issues in the Church today.

Hollerich is president of the pan-European grouping of Catholic bishops' conferences, known as COMECE.

In the KNA interview, Hollerich was asked for his assessment of a campaign in which about 125 Catholic Church employees in Germany, including some priests, came out as LGBTQ, and about the Church's teachings on homosexuality.

"I believe that the sociological-scientific foundation of this teaching is no longer true," he said in interview that was published on Tuesday in Germany.

In another part Hollerich said: "I think it's time we make a fundamental revision of the doctrine".

The Roman Catholic Church teaches that same-sex attraction is not a sin, but homosexual acts are.

Hollerich, who did not elaborate on what aspects of the teaching he felt needed revision, said: "I also believe that we are thinking ahead in terms of doctrine. The way the pope has expressed himself in the past can lead to a change in doctrine."

Homosexuality is one of the most controversial issues in the 1.3 billion-member Church, with conservatives accusing Pope Francis of giving mixed signals and confusing the faithful.

Francis has said that while the Church cannot accept same-sex marriage, it can support civil union laws aimed at giving gay partners joint rights in areas of pensions, health care and inheritance.

He has sent notes of appreciation to priests and nuns who minister to gay Catholics and said parents of gay children should never condemn them, but under his watch the Vatican has also said priests cannot not bless same-sex couples.

In December, a Vatican department raised conservative ire when it apologised for "causing pain to the entire LGBTQ community" by removing from its website a link to resource material from a Catholic gay rights advocacy group in preparation for a Vatican meeting in 2023. It was later reposted.

In his interview with KNA, Hollerich also said gay Church employees should not lose their jobs, something which has happened in some countries, particularly the United States.

"They know they have a home in the Church. With us (the Luxembourg archdiocese) no one is dismissed because they are homosexual," he told KNA.

(Zuzanna Szymanska reported from Berlin; Editing by Peter Graff)
Buenos Aires, Feb 2 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Feb, 2022 ) :Twelve people died and another 50 were taken to hospital in a northwestern suburb of Buenos Aires after consuming adulterated cocaine, authorities said Wednesday.

Around 10 people were arrested after police raided a house in the poor neighborhood where they believe the cocaine was sold.

Authorities said they do not yet know what the cocaine was mixed with, but warned those who have bought the drug over the last 24 hours not to use it.
Sitka is a consolidated city-borough situated on the western side of the Baranof Island and the southern half of Chichagof Island in the Pacific Oceans Alexander Archipelago, in the southeastern part of the US State of Alaska. The name Sitka is a contraction of the native Tlingit word Shee Atika, which means People on the outside of Baranof Island. Sitka is accessible only by boat or plane and offers its visitors spectacular scenic views and various other recreational opportunities besides giving a glimpse into the rich history and community of Alaska.

Geography Of Sitka

Downtown of Sitka, Alaska at sunset.

As per the United States Census Bureau, Sitka covers a total area of 12,471.17 sq. km, of which 5,037.75 sq. km is occupied by water, and 7,433.42 sq. km is occupied by land. It is considered the largest city-borough by total area in the United States and is almost four times the size of the US State of Rhode Island. Sitka is also the largest incorporated city by area in the United States and enjoys the distinction of being the only city in southeastern Alaska that faces the Gulf of Alaska. The consolidated city-borough of Sitka is located at the heart of the Tongass National Forest and on the outer coast of the Inside Passage of Alaska. It is situated about 150km southwest of the city of Juneau. The dormant stratovolcano Mount Edgecumbe which rises to an elevation of 980m on the southern end of Alaskas Kruzof Island, is visible from Sitka on a clear day.

Climate

Downtown Sitka, Alaska, during winters.

According to the Koppen climate classification, Sitka experiences an oceanic climate with cool summers and cold winters. The warm season lasts from June to September, with August being the hottest month having an average high temperature of 16.6C and a low temperature of 11.6C. The cold season lasts from November to March, with January being the coldest month having an average low temperature of 0.5C and a high temperature of 4.4C. Sitka receives an average annual precipitation of 131.74 inches and an average seasonal snowfall of 33 inches.

The Population And Economy Of Sitka

Sitka Harbor, Baranof Island, Alaska.

In 2019, Sitka had a population of 8,640 people with a median age of 39.5. As of 2019, about 725 people (8.39% of the residents) of Sitka were born outside the country. The most common birthplace of the foreign-born residents of Alaska is the Philippines, followed by Mexico and Korea. The largest ethnic group in Sitka are the non-Hispanic White representing 61.6% of Sitkas population, followed by American Indians and Alaska Natives at 12.3%, two or more races at 11.7%, Asians at 6.6%, and Hispanic White at 2.71%. All the households in Sitka speak English as their primary language, and 95.9% of Sitkas residents are US citizens.

As of 2019, the median household income in Sitka was $73,682, and the median property value was $358,600. The average car ownership in Sitka was two cars per household. The principal economic activities in Sitka include canning, fishing, lumbering, seafood harvesting and processing, and tourism. The major industries in Sitka include Health Care & Social Assistance, Educational Services, and Retail trade, with the Sitka School District and the South East Alaska Regional Health Consortium being the two largest employers. With more than 1,347 permanent ships, the port of Sitka contains the states most extensive harbor system. It is also the 6th largest port in the United States by the value of seafood harvest.

Tourist Attractions In Sitka

St. Michaels Russian Orthodox Cathedral

St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Sitka, Alaska. Editorial credit: Supapai / Shutterstock.com

St. Michaels Cathedral is a historic cathedral of the Orthodox Church in America in the Diocese of Alaska, located along the Lincoln and Matsoutoff Streets in the downtown business district of Sitka. Initially built in 1848, the cathedral was utterly destroyed by an accidental fire on January 2, 1966. The cathedral was subsequently rebuilt and is one of the most prominent landmarks in Sitka. The cathedral has been designated as a National Historic Landmark since 1962.

Sitka National Historical Park

Native American handicrafts are displayed at Sitka National Historical Park, Sitka, Alaska. Editorial credit: Supapai / Shutterstock.com

Sitka National Historical Park is a 112-acre scenic national historical park located close to the mouth of the Indian River in Sitka. The park preserves the site of a Tlingit Fort and the Battle of Sitka that was fought between the native Tlingits and the Russian fur hunters in 1804. The park displays several Native totem poles that have been collected from all over the State. Since 1966, the park has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Alaska Raptor Center

Visitors outside the main entrance to the Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka, Alaska. Editorial credit: Linda Harms / Shutterstock.com

The Alaska Raptor Center is a raptor rehabilitation center situated on a 17-acre area in Sitka surrounded by the Indian River and the Tongass National Forest. The centers goal is to enhance the wild populations of raptors and other species of birds through research, education, and rehabilitation. The center receives about 100 to 200 birds a year for treatment. However, some birds never fully recover and are housed at the outdoor sanctuary of the Alaska Raptor Center. The center receives more than 40,000 visitors per year who come to see the resident eagles, owls, ravens, falcons, and hawks.

Sitka Pioneer Home

Sitka Pioneer Home in Sitka, Alaska. Editorial credit: Supapai / Shutterstock.com

The Sitka Pioneer Home is a large assisted living residence situated at 120 Katlian Street in downtown Sitka. It is considered the oldest and the third-largest Alaska Pioneer Home and is currently managed by the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services. The Sitka Pioneer Home currently cares for 75 residents with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia. Since 1979, the Sitka Pioneer Home and the adjacent Totem Park have been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Sheldon Jackson Museum

Located approximately halfway from downtown Sitka and the Sitka National Historical Park, the Sheldon Jackson Museum houses a vast collection of Native Alaskan artifacts. The artifacts were collected by Rev. Dr. Sheldon Jackson  a Presbyterian missionary and a General Agent of Education for Alaska. Since 1972, the Sheldon Jackson Museum has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Brief History Of Sitka

A Russian Stronghouse in Sitka, Alaska.

As per the local Tlingit legends, the present Sitka area was initially inhabited by the native Tlingit Indians around 10,000 years ago. In 1799, Old Sitka was settled by the Russian explorers who named it Fort of Archangel Michael. Alexander Baranov, who served as the Governor of Russian America, soon arrived in Old Sitka under the auspices of the Russian-American company. The Tlingit warriors destroyed the original settlement in June 1802. In August 1804, a major armed conflict between the Russians and the Tlingits took place. After the Tlingits surrendered, the Russians established a new settlement named New Archangel, which soon became the largest city in the region. In 1808, Sitka became the capital of Russian America. Sitka remained the capital of Russian America till 1867 and also served as the busiest seaport on the western coast of North America. On October 18, 1867, Sitka was the site where the formal transfer of Alaska between Russia and the United States took place. Sitka served as the capital of the Department of Alaska and the District of Alaska till 1906, after which the seat of government was moved to Juneau. The United States Navy constructed a naval air base on Japonski Island during the Second World War. At present, the town of Sitka is connected with the airport and Coast Guard Station on the Japonski Island via the John OConnell Bridge.
It was Mr. Zuckers responsibility to disclose his consensual relationship with Allison Gollust, CNNs executive vice president  who, in a mark of how vast the Cuomo familys network is, briefly served as Andrew Cuomos communications director nearly a decade ago  and he has acknowledged his lapse. But by mentioning the relationship in their talks with the network, Mr. Cuomo and his lawyers drew criticism that they were engaging in the same combative approach that his brother often employed to maintain a tight grip on Albany for more than a decade.

If this is a domino effect that begins with Andrew Cuomo going down from the governors office, and then Chris Cuomo being fired from CNN, and then Jeff Zucker losing his job at CNN, that is a remarkable chain of events, Brian Stelter, the networks media correspondent, said on the air Wednesday, adding that Chris Cuomo was not going out quietly and was perhaps trying to burn the place down.

A spokesman for Chris Cuomo declined to comment.

Since their downfalls, both Cuomos have continued on forceful crusades to rehabilitate their reputations and seek vindication.

The former governor has sought out former allies for their thoughts on how he may re-enter public life, even if most of the New York political class, along with voters, appears to have turned the page on him. (He was seen on Tuesday night dining in New York City with Mayor Eric Adams, who had previously called for his resignation, The New York Post reported.)

He still has a $16 million campaign war chest, and he has appeared increasingly emboldened in emails to supporters after local district attorneys closed investigations into some of the womens claims without bringing criminal charges  even though many noted they had found the women credible.
Clownfish in coral. Credit: Fredrik Jutfelt (CC-BY 4.0, creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

As humans fill the atmosphere with excess carbon dioxide, much of it gets absorbed by the oceans, acidifying thema potential concern for marine life. According to a new study publishing February 3rd in PLOS Biology, however, previously high-profile worries about an effect on fish behavior appear to have declined.

The research led by Jeff Clements and Fredrik Jutfelt at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, along with Josefin Sundin (Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences) and Timothy Clark (Deakin University), demonstrates that the apparent severity of ocean acidification impacts on fish behavior, as reported in the scientific literature, has declined dramatically over the past decade.

The researchers used meta-analysis to analyze trends in reported effects of ocean acidification on fish behavior in studies published from 2009-2019. While early studies reported extremely clear and strong effects, the magnitude of those impacts has decreased over time and have been negligible for the past five years.

"A textbook example of the decline effect", explains Dr. Clements, lead author of the study. "The decline effect is the tendency for the strength of scientific findings to decrease in magnitude over time. While relatively well-recognized in fields like psychology and medicine, it is lesser known in ecologyour study provides perhaps the most striking example of it in this field to date."

To determine what might have caused the decline effect in their meta-analysis, the authors explored numerous biological factors, but found that biological differences between studies through time could not explain the results. Instead, common scientific biases largely explained the decline effect.

Coral reef. Credit: Fredrik Jutfelt (CC-BY 4.0, creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

"Science often suffers from publication bias, where strong effects are selectively published by authors and prestigious journals", says co-author Prof. Jutfelt. "It's only after others try to replicate initial results and publish less-striking findings that true effects become known. Our analysis shows that strong effects in this field are favorably published in high impact journals."

Alongside publication bias, studies that reported severe effects tended to have smaller sample sizes. Not only that, but these less rigorous studies in prestigious journals still receive more attention from researchers and have had a stronger influence on perceived effects in this field.

While imploring others to give more emphasis to recent studies with larger sample sizes, Clements feels that the team's results are good news. "While climate change will undoubtedly affect marine animals, at least it seems that ocean acidification won't directly affect fish behavior." The decline is also testament to the self-correcting nature of the scientific process.

Jutfelt, Sundin, and Clark agree. "Carbon dioxide emissions have severe negative impacts, not the least through global warming. Given the results of our study, future research efforts can focus on questions where we do see substantial effects being repeated over time," says Sundin.

"We demonstrate a strong "decline effect" in ocean acidification impacts on fish behaviorone of the most striking examples of this phenomenon in the field of ecology to date," adds Clements.

Explore further Ocean acidification and warming disrupts fish shoals

More information: Clements JC, Sundin J, Clark TD, Jutfelt F (2022) Meta-analysis reveals an extreme "decline effect" in the impacts of ocean acidification on fish behavior. PLoS Biol 20(2): e3001511. Journal information: PLoS Biology Clements JC, Sundin J, Clark TD, Jutfelt F (2022) Meta-analysis reveals an extreme "decline effect" in the impacts of ocean acidification on fish behavior.20(2): e3001511. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.3001511
Federal officials plan to begin doling out drought disaster aid to ranchers in March, officials announced Thursday.

Meanwhile, drought remained relatively stable in North Dakota over the week, with wetter weather potentially to come later in February.

President Joe Biden in September signed off on $10 billion in assistance for agricultural producers impacted by weather disasters including drought in 2020 and 2021, with $750 million earmarked for ranchers stricken by drought last year.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will follow a two-phased process to administer relief to eligible farmers and ranchers, with the first phase utilizing a streamlined process that relies on existing data that producers have already reported to USDA, according to Robert Bonnie, undersecretary for farm production and conservation.

"As we work to administer this assistance, we remain guided by our goals to streamline the application process to reduce the burden on producers, proactively include underserved producers who have been left out of past relief efforts, and encourage participation in existing risk management tools that can help producers weather future extreme weather events, Bonnie said in remarks at the Cattle Industry Convention in Houston.

A large number of North Dakota ranchers are in Houston for the convention and heard USDA's announcement firsthand.

"North Dakota and much of the western United States were hard hit with drought in 2021 -- and those dry conditions linger," New Rockford rancher and North Dakota Stockmen's Association President Jeff Schafer said in a statement to the Tribune. "We heard in an outlook report yesterday by CattleFax that two-thirds of the nation's cowherd is in dry or drought conditions. Of those, 40% are in drought.

"We appreciate USDA's announcement this morning to help with the increased feed costs and reduced resources to help sustain our herds, and we look forward to learning more about the details," he said.

USDA is tallying assistance applications filed by the Jan. 31 deadline and plans to distribute at least half of the $750 million by the end of March. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/3olO8KQ.

U.S. Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, praised USDA's announcement.

Our livestock producers have been hit by drought and other natural disasters over the last year, which has really taken a toll on their operations, he said.

Weekly updates from the National Agricultural Statistics Service during 2021 routinely showed the bulk of North Dakota pasture, rangeland and crops in poor or very poor condition, and stock water supplies and soil moisture as being mostly short or very short.

North Dakota Stockmens Association Executive Vice President Julie Ellingson in October testified before the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water and Power, noting a 24% increase in sales at cattle auction markets where the association maintains brand inspection. North Dakota ranchers as of July had sold 148,000 cows, when the average for an entire year is 200,000, she said.

The association was still compiling updated totals on Thursday, according to Ellingson.

Three-fourths of North Dakota during much of last summer was in either extreme or exceptional drought, the two worst categories on the U.S. Drought Monitor map, a partnership of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Drought Mitigation Center.

Those conditions improved dramatically late last year, especially in eastern North Dakota, due in large part to a wet October. But the latest map, released Thursday, showed most of central North Dakota still in moderate drought and most of the west in severe drought. The northwest corner of the state remains in extreme drought, though the percentage affected declined slightly.

The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center's forecast for Feb. 8-12 indicates wetter-than-normal weather in the Northern Plains, according to National Drought Mitigation Center Climatologist Curtis Riganti. However, the outlook also notes that drought will persist in the western half of North Dakota.
BEDFORD, Pa., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Organic Snack Company (TOSC), a premium food-manufacturing company and exclusive producer of Kate's Real Food, announced today that its owner, Bruce Thaler, through the development entity BT Snacks II, purchased 82 acres of land in Bedford, Pennsylvania's Business Park II in anticipation for future expansion this summer.

The purchase of the land will allow Thaler to expand TOSC's operations as well as begin the construction of additional manufacturing and warehousing space, with a total build out of up to 750,000 square feet. The anticipated investment in the project is expected to exceed $75 million and create 500 or more jobs in the community.

"The acquisition of this land is an incredibly exciting moment in time for The Organic Snack Company and for the Bedford community," said Mark Thaler, CEO of TOSC. "There has been an increasing demand from consumers for quality, organic snack offerings made with clean ingredients, and this monumental expansion effort for our company will be key in keeping up with that demand."

TOSC worked closely with the Bedford County Development Association (BCDA) for local development assistance, the Governor's Action Team (GAT) and Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) for state assistance, and Dollar Bank for project financing to ultimately bring the acquisition to fruition. Since its establishment in 2020, TOSC has become a premier employer in central Pennsylvania, and has grown from more than seven employees to approximately 100, with additional opportunities and growth on the horizon.

"We've been honored to have a great working relationship with The Organic Snack Company over the past several years," said Bette Slayton, president of BCDA. "Since the development of TOSC's first facility, we've seen phenomenal growth come from the company and were more than happy to support them on another venture."

TOSC plans to announce exactly what the land will be used for in the coming months. To learn more about TOSC, contact: [email protected] .

About The Organic Snack Company

The Organic Snack Company is a privately-held premium food-manufacturing company based out of Bedford, Pennsylvania. Established in 2020, the company was built to support the rapid growth of Kate's Real Food energy bars and bites and has since become the exclusive manufacturer for all Kate's Real Food products. Its state of the art production facility holds the internationally recognized SQF food safety certification, as well as certifications for making Organic, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Soy Free, and Kosher products.

About Kate's Real Food

Our story began with Kate, in search of the next outdoor adventure. To support her busy lifestyle, she needed an energy bar that tasted great and was made from organic ingredients. When she couldn't find one, she decided to make her own. Kate's Real Food is still committed to fueling adventures with organic, great-tasting products. Today, they can be found nationally at REI, Amazon, and Backcountry.com, and regionally in Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Sheetz, Giant/Martins, HEB and Central Market, Huckleberry's, King Soopers, and many others. For more information on stores near you please visit www.katesrealfood.com .

Media Contact:

Maura Gallagher

(614) 565-7626

[email protected]

SOURCE The Organic Snack Company
A bill backed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin that would have created an easier path for charter schools to open around the state was shut down Thursday by a key Senate panel.

The bill would have given the state more power to approve charter school applications by establishing regional entities that could authorize such schools; charter school applications are now subject to the will of local school boards.

Charter schools, which operate using public dollars but with some independence from local school boards, are rare in Virginia. Youngkin ran on promises to expand that number, proposing at least 20 new charter schools but also telling supporters during campaign events that he hoped to see up to 200.

The bill the Democratic-led Senate education panel rejected on an 8-7 vote is just one of three proposals from the Youngkin administration to grow the charter school footprint in Virginia. A Youngkin spokesperson said Thursday that the administration is hopeful about a different bill that would allow colleges and private businesses to open charters.

Youngkin and Republicans in the legislature say charter schools could be a response to parent frustration with their local schools, in part brought on by pandemic policies, and an innovative way to improve education for students in underperforming schools. Democrats have argued that the states education dollars are better focused on the current public school system.

On Thursday, the Senate panel also voted 9-4 along party lines to shut down a Youngkin-backed bill that would have banned the teaching of inherently divisive concepts in public schools. Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, D-Chesterfield, who recommended that the panel reject the bill, said the patron, Sen. Jen Kiggans, R-Virginia Beach, did not clearly define the concepts that the bill would ban.

The House version of the bill is still moving through that chamber, as is a budget amendment Youngkin proposed to ban schools from teaching inherently divisive concepts.

An executive order directing state education officials to end the use of inherently divisive concepts, including Critical Race Theory, in state policy is also in effect.

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With the exception of Sen. Lynwood Lewis, D-Accomack, Democrats on the Senate Education and Health panel voted against the charter school measure. The bill was introduced by Sen. Mark Obenshain, R-Rockingham. Key votes against the bill included Senate Majority Leader Dick Saslaw, D-Fairfax, and Sen. Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, president pro tempore of the Senate.

The bill would have allowed the state Board of Education to create regional charter school divisions made up of two or three localities. Each of the localities would have to enroll at least 3,000 students and include schools struggling with student performance in math and English standardized tests.

The regional bodies would have the power to approve new charter schools. A majority of the board would be appointed by the state Board of Education. Localities would have the minority of power and would be unable to reject charter school applicants  outnumbered by board members appointed by a charter-friendly state government, at least while Youngkin is in office.

Obenshain and supporters of the bill argue that the local approval requirement is a fatal hurdle for charter schools: They need authorization to open from the local school district, which would compete with the school for enrollment and at least some of the funding attached to those students.

Theres an incredible unfairness in how our schools are now attributed, and that is by ZIP code, said Sen. Siobhan Dunnavant, R-Henrico, who backed the bill. There are Virginians who cannot choose where they live, and they end up going to the schools that have the least likelihood of helping them access the education that they need.

Lucas said she found it really strange that instead of dedicating more funding toward reducing school sizes, the panel was weighing directing funding to a new system. Saslaw said the bill would hurt small localities that would lose some funding as their students moved to a charter school.

Obenshain said the bill excluded localities with fewer than 3,000 students for that reason. Saslaw said many districts with more than 3,000 students could still struggle. Theyre going to get killed by this, Saslaw said.

Obenshains bill as it came before the committee would have left some per-student state funding at the neighborhood school for every child who opts for the new charter  a compromise to help the bill along. Obenshain said he does not expect the kind of draw to charter schools that would decimate local district funding.

If it is the case, I would say that that school divisions got a real big problem because the parents want what the charter schools are delivering, and that their local school division is not, Obenshain said.

Legislation mirroring Obenshains bill is moving through the GOP-led House.

Democrats in a Senate subcommittee on Thursday also rejected legislation that would give the state Board of Education the power to approve charter schools.

The only seemingly viable charter school bill in the Senate is a bill from Sen. Todd Pillion, R-Washington, that would let the state Board of Education approve charter schools specifically operated by colleges, universities or private businesses. That bill refers to the schools as lab schools, though Youngkin has said the terms are interchangeable and has not delineated differences.

The governor is working with a bipartisan group of lawmakers on legislation to expand lab schools as part of the Day One Game Plan and he looks forward to finding a path forward, said Youngkin spokesperson Macaulay Porter.

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Also Thursday, the Senate panel voted 8-5 along party lines to shut down a bill sponsored by Sen. Travis Hackworth, R-Tazewell, that would have repealed a requirement that local school districts adopt policies related to transgender students.

The panel did vote 8-7 to advance legislation backed by Youngkin that would require school districts to notify parents of any sexually explicit material that will be used in the classroom, allow the parent to review it, and provide the student an alternative at the parents request.

Lewis and Sen. Chap Petersen, D-Fairfax City, joined Republicans in support of the bill sponsored by Dunnavant.
NEW DELHI  India announced its new defense budget Tuesday that will see $13.84 billion go toward promoting self-reliance among local businesses and reducing the countrys import dependency under its $22.26 billion fund for acquisitions of new weapons and military platforms.

Indias total defense budget for the financial year 2022-2023 is $54.2 billion, which includes $20.26 billion to cover pay and allowances for the more than 1.5 billion military personnel. This does not include the defense pensions of retired personnel.

This year, capital outlay meant for new weapons purchases for the Indian Air Force has been reserved for $7.43 billion; the Navy has been given $6.36 billion; and the Army has been allocated $4.28 billion.

The Indian Air Force will spend most of the money to cover existing commitments for French Rafale fighters, Russian S-400 air defense systems, Apache and Chinook helicopters, and Israeli medium-range surface-to-air missile systems.

The Navy will use its funds to pay for one aircraft carrier, destroyers, stealth frigates and multirole helicopters, which were previously contracted.

The Army will use its funds to pay for T-90 and Arjun MK1A battle tanks, BMP-2/2K infantry combat vehicles, Dhanush artillery guns, Akash air defense missiles, Konkurs-M and Milan-2T anti-tank guided missiles, and multiple types of ammunition.

But Amit Cowshish, a former MoD financial adviser for acquisitions, said it is unlikely the latest budget will fully meet requirements projected by the armed services.

The increase in the overall budget reflects the governments resolve toward creating a self-sustainable industry with modern infrastructure  part of whats known locally as Aatmanirbhar Bharat, or Self-Reliant India  the Ministry of Defence said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed the budget. It is in line with the Vocal for Local push and it will certainly boost the domestic defense industries, he said, referring to the governments call to support domestic businesses.

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Some defense analysts and military officials also welcomed the news, but noted the budgets amount wont be able cover modernization shortfalls.

Senior military officials also warned business will continue as usual because nearly 70% of funds for arms procurement will go toward previous commitments with both domestic and foreign companies as well as via government-to-government deals. One Army official, who spoke to Defense News on the condition of anonymity, said indigenous procurement is a good notion but materiel produced by local companies still contain a significant amount of foreign-made technologies.

Last year, the government allocated about $11.77 billion from the total $18.4 billion procurement budget for domestic companies to manufacture weapons and platforms locally. However, military officials who spoke to Defense News on condition of anonymity, as they were not authorized to speak to the media, said almost 85% of the contracts were awarded to state-run companies, leaving private firms struggling to secure meaningful defense orders.

Cowshish noted that reserving a portion of government funds for domestic purchases is a good sign for local industry, but that unless the overall budget is substantially increased, the present situation will endure.

One MoD official said state-run companies were awarded defense contracts for LCA MK1 fighters, Arjun MK1A battle tanks, tactical software-defined radios, low-level transportable radars, Lynx U2 fire control systems, Konkurs-M and Milan-2T anti-tank guided missiles, AK-203 assault rifles, and advanced light helicopters, among other materiel.

The government has also allocated $1.6 billion in the latest budget for defense research and development programs, which have been solely controlled by 50 laboratories of the state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation. Those programs will now be opened to industry and academia, with 25% of the defense R&D budget earmarked for this change, the MoD said, adding that private companies are encouraged to participate in the design and development of military platforms and equipment in collaboration with DRDO.

This is meant to give the private sector more exposure to defense R&D efforts. The Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers, which lobbies on behalf of industry, said the move is a much-needed reform that will encourage innovation and investment.

Another consequence of the move, according to Laxman Kumar Behera, an associate professor for national security studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, is that the DRDO, which has a near-monopoly on defense R&D efforts, will face greater competition.

Budget documents also revealed that the Indian military spent about $2.8 billion on emergency procurements amid its ongoing standoff with the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army in the Ladakh region. China claims nearly 36,000 square miles of territory also claimed by India. The two countries fought a brief battle in 1962 over a boundary dispute, but it remains unresolved despite several bilateral diplomatic and military-to-military negotiations.

The new budget allocates $466.66 million for the state-run Border Roads Organisation for bolstering road-related infrastructure along Indias border, especially that shared with China. This is a 40% increase from last years allocation of $333.33 million.

Similarly, $566.13 million will go to the Indian Coast Guard to buy new ships and aircraft as well as to establish coastal security networks and other much-needed coastal security infrastructure. This amount is about 60% more than the previous years allocation of $353.33 million.
52F 52F Oneill (68763) Today Light rain. High 80F. Wind S at 19 to 33 mph. Tonight Clear sky. Low 52F. Wind WSW at 2 to 2 mph. Updated Sep 23, 2022 3:56 am Full Forecast
The State Department has canceled the Fulbright Foreign Student Program in Afghanistan for the 2022-23 academic year, according to a State Department spokesperson. The move leaves 140 Afghan semifinalists without access to the prestigious scholarship after almost a year of waiting. The department said it "could not offer a safe exchange experience for a new cohort of Afghan Fulbrighters at this time," according to a State Department spokesperson.

Fulbright provided Afghan graduate students the opportunity to obtain a fully-funded masters for up to two years masters degree in the U.S., a dream made even more coveted for Afghan students after the fall of Kabul in August 2021. But now that dream is over for the 140 semifinalists who had been selected for the 2022-23 cohort.

The State Department sent an email Friday night notifying the semifinalists that the program "will not go forward" citing "significant barriers impeding our ability to provide a safe exchange experience" as the reason for suspending the program according to an email obtained by CBS News.

Fatema Ahmadi, one of the semifinalists, was devastated when she read the email. "If they just stop this program and are not supporting Afghan scholars, it is really unfair."

Fatema Ahmadi / Credit: Courtesy of Fatema Ahmadi

Ahmadi says that many of her fellow semifinalists wanted to take the skills they would learn at U.S. institutions and bring it back to Afghanistan in hopes of re-building the country. "We need educated people, education is the only way we can continue our progress. It is how we want to fight to get our country back."

In August 2021, Ahmadi was evacuated out of Kabul and, after a journey from Kuwait to Bahrain to Wisconsin, she settled in Virginia. She was hoping to start her Fulbright this year, as she is already in the U.S., yet she still received the email notifying her of "significant barriers" that would not allow for the scholarship to continue.

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Ubaid Ullah Karimi, a semifinalist living in Kabul, was planning on getting a masters in international peace and conflict resolution before learning of the cancellation. Karimi and fellow semifinalists urge the State Department to reconsider the decision and are launching a twitter campaign with the #reviewfulbright4AFG. He believes that there were solutions to mitigate safety concerns other than canceling the program.

"This is not a ticket out of Afghanistan, but an opportunity for an education," said Karimi, who planned on returning to Afghanistan after his Fulbright. "They have kept us waiting. We invested in this program. They have made us promises and now they have denied us."

Ubaid Ullah Karimi / Credit: Courtesy of Ubaid Ullah Karimi

The program is still operating for the previous cohort of over 100 Afghan students who began their studies this fall. The State Department said it will restart the program "once future conditions allow for us to once again safely support Fulbright opportunities for Afghan students" according to a State Department spokesperson.

The students were selected as semifinalists in April 2021 and are waiting for their final interviews, initially delayed by COVID-19 and then the fall of Kabul in August. When asked about the delay, a State department spokesperson said the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs was carefully assessing "the feasibility of continuing the program" and looking into "multiple avenues to address the serious safety and logistical challenges of bringing a new cohort of students to the United States."

The Fulbright program was founded in 1946 to foster mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries.

"I think this program is really important for Afghanistan youth, they are just waiting in Afghanistan for this opportunity to come and now it's just really disappointing," Ahmadi said.

Burning North Carolina fertilizer plant had potential for "one of the worst explosions in U.S. history"

Congressman Ritchie Torres on crime and gun violence in New York City

Hospitals face a COVID breaking point | 60 Minutes preview
If there is one thing the coronavirus pandemic has achieved, it is to shine a light on the inadequacies of our health system.

Victorias triple-zero call system has been plagued by severe staff shortages and life-threatening delays responding to emergencies.

The pandemic has pushed Victorias hospital system to the brink. Credit:iStock

There have been shocking reports of ambulances banked up outside hospitals, unable to access overburdened emergency departments.

A severe hospital-wide worker shortage last month culminated in the imposition of a code brown, under which staff were recalled to tackle the crisis. Elective surgery has been put on hold.
Australia is a consistent supporter of Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity. This support has always been bipartisan. Two like-minded nations, Ukraine and Australia champion world order based on international law.

Australias respect for international law and the primacy of sovereign borders, human rights and freedom of navigation led it to a principled stance on Russian aggression against Ukraine in 2014, together with all Western democracies.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken with the author, Ukranian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, last month. Credit:AP

Back then, the sanctions Australia imposed against Russia were the toughest of all Pacific nations. Today, Australia maintains solidarity with Ukraine and the wider democratic world in efforts to deter Russia from launching a new attack. Moscows aggressive intentions go far beyond Ukraine and threaten not only European but global international order, as well as international trade and global food security.

In Ukraine, international peace and security are at stake. If we allow Russia to achieve its strategic goals in Europe, shockwaves will be felt all around the globe. They will represent the failure of democracies to defend what they stand for and hence embolden those who challenge existing order.
Frustrated lawmakers demanded that the aviation industry and the wireless industry work out a 'long-term' agreement for deployment of the 5G network without disrupting air travel.

During the chaotic rollout, Verizon and AT&T had twice agreed to delay turning on about 510 of their 5G towers amid a spat with the Federal Aviation Administration.

But on Friday, federal safety regulators say they have cleared the way for Verizon and AT&T to power up more towers for new 5G service without causing radio interference with airplanes.

But experts have said the new agreement is only 'temporary' and only covers a portion of the towers that were delayed.

'Everybody else has taken measures to protect aviation but we didn't until the last minute,' Rep. Peter DeFazio, the Oregon Democrat who chairs the House Transportation Committee, complained in a hearing on Wednesday.

'Having a dropped call is way less serious than having a dropped airplane out of the sky,' DeFazio said.

'Something has to be worked out long term in the next six months as they deploy more of these towers.'

'Everybody else has taken measures to protect aviation but we didn't until the last minute,' Rep. Peter DeFazio, the Oregon Democrat who chairs the House Transportation Committee, complained in a hearing on Wednesday

'Having a dropped call is way less serious than having a dropped airplane out of the sky,' DeFazio said

He said that if telecoms companies insisted putting 5G towers in flight paths for 'profit reasons,' that 'there have to be some restrictions and agreements because we cannot have conflicting industries.

Similar 5G mobile networks have been deployed in dozens of other countries - sometimes with concessions like reducing the power of the networks near airports, as France has done. But in the U.S., the issue has pitted the FAA and the airlines against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the telecoms companies.

The FAA said it and the wireless carriers 'have agreed on steps that will enable more aircraft to safely use key airports while also enabling more towers to deploy 5G service.'

The disastrous rollout earlier this month led to flight cancelations nationwide - leading to blame on the administration and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Rep. Garret Graves, R-La., said that the U.S. has the 'safest aviation industry in the world' and 'everyone supports the deployment of the 5G C-band'

Rep. Garret Graves, R-La., said that the U.S. has the 'safest aviation industry in the world' and 'everyone supports the deployment of the 5G C-band.' 'Yet if we look at what has happened, we have found ourselves in this absolutely ridiculous, inexcusable situation.'

'After for years knowing that there were challenges here, there were issues here, finding ourselves in a situation in a situation at the very last minute, there are claims, there are cries you have to delay deployment - something that was entirely preventable.'

'We saw two very capable agencies ... just sit here and play chicken with one another,' he added, referring to the FAA and the FCC.

DeFazio, taking it a step further, laid blame squarely on the FCC.

'The FCC's history of subordinating transportation safety to corporate broadband interests has predictably resulted in the current mess we find ourselves in and must change if we hope to avoid a similar result in the future,' DeFazio said.

DeFazio said that the chairman of the FCC during the Trump administration, Ajit Pai, dragged his feet on the problems.

However Pai told the Washington Post that DeFazio's concerns and those of the aviation industry 'are entirely misplaced.' He said that the FAA had ample opportunity to raise safety concerns over 5G deployment over the years.

AT&T and Verizon have said their equipment will not interfere with aircraft electronics.

But the two companies agreed on January 18 to temporarily not turn on about 510 towers near airports over the FAA's concerns about interference with airplane radio altimeters, delaying the rollout for the second time.

The FAA said on Friday more precise data about the exact location of wireless transmitters allowed it 'to determine that it is possible to safely and more precisely map the size and shape of the areas around airports where 5G signals are mitigated, shrinking the areas where wireless operators are deferring their antenna activations.'

This graphic shows how the wireless spectrum used by 5G networks could interfere with altimeters, which measure a plane's altitude and is especially important for low-visibility operations. The CEOs of the airlines had initially asked officials that the 5G be implemented everywhere in the country except within the approximate 2 miles of airport runways at some key airports

Aviation officials feared that 5G signals near airports could interfere with certain airplane instruments, including the radio altimeter used to gauge altitude

Altimeter's are a key tool for pilots landing in low-visibility conditions

The FAA's move will now let the companies activate some 5G cell towers closer to airports without hindering the ability of planes to land during poor weather.

A source said that Verizon is expected to be able to deploy about 14% of the 500 towers held up in January under the new deal.

In total, Verizon expects to deploy another 2,000 towers in February, after turning on about 5,000 in January.

The company said in January it would offer 5G C-Band service to about 90 million customers, bumping up that number to 100 million by March 31.

Aviation groups and the FAA had warned that the companies' 5G service, which uses part of the radio spectrum called C-Band, was too close to the spectrum range used by instruments that measure the height of planes above the ground - crucial information for landing in low visibility.

Verizon and AT&T, which spent billions to build 5G networks, disputed the FAA's conclusions, but they twice agreed to delay launching new 5G and temporarily delayed it around many airports even as they began offering the service in many U.S. cities on January 19.

Since the dispute came to a head earlier this month, the FAA has cleared most types of airline planes - 90 percent of the U.S. fleet - to operate around 5G signals, saying that their height-measuring devices, called radio altimeters, are safe from radio interference.

Dire predictions of thousands of canceled flights did not come true, but dozens of flights have been grounded by 5G concerns, including U.S.-bound international flights last week and some domestic flights this week at Paine Field near Seattle.

THE EVOLUTION OF MOBILE BROADBAND UP TO 5G The evolution of the G system started in 1980 with the invention of the mobile phone which allowed for analogue data to be transmitted via phone calls. Digital came into play in 1991 with 2G and SMS and MMS capabilities were launched. Since then, the capabilities and carrying capacity for the mobile network has increased massively. More data can be transferred from one point to another via the mobile network quicker than ever. 5G is expected to be 100 times faster than the currently used 4G. Whilst the jump from 3G to 4G was most beneficial for mobile browsing and working, the step to 5G will be so fast they become almost real-time. That means mobile operations will be just as fast as office-based internet connections. Potential uses for 5G include: Simultaneous translation of several languages in a party conference call

Self-driving cars can stream movies, music and navigation information from the cloud

A full length 8GB film can be downloaded in six seconds. 5G is expected to be so quick and efficient it is possible it could start the end of wired connections. By the end of 2020, industry estimates claim 50 billion devices will be connected to 5G. Advertisement

Some small airline planes, notably a group of Embraer regional jets, have not been cleared.

'It's too early to declare victory,' Faye Malarkey Black, president of the Regional Airline Association, said earlier this week. 'This is not fixed. We're not fixed.'

Regional airlines - smaller companies that operate flights under contract with large airlines - faced limitations on a large chunk of their fleets during poor weather, Black said.

Last week, long-haul carrier Emirates resumed its Boeing 777 flights to the U.S. after halting its use of the aircraft over an ongoing dispute over the rollout of new 5G services in America.

British Airways, Emirates, All Nippon and Japan Airlines, had all canceled dozens of their scheduled flights to and from the US or put people on different flights using different aircraft.

Republicans blasted Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the Biden administration for 'sleepwalking' through the long awaited, yet disastrous, rollout of 5G technology.

'The Biden administration has failed to provide any leadership to find a solution to this spectrum issue,' the statement reads. 'The U.S. government has hardworking experts who can address any outstanding technical issues, but instead of leading, the White House has sleepwalked through this botched process.'

'By lurching from one arbitrary deadline to the next with no clear plan or strategy for resolution, this Administration's negligence continues to delay finding a lasting solution that improves our everyday wireless communication while protecting aviation safety.'

Dubai-based Emirates, which flies only the Boeing 777 and the double-decker Airbus A380, was among international carriers which cancelled early flights or switched to different planes following warnings over possible interference.

Emirates President Tim Clark slammed the 5G fiasco as the 'most delinquent, irresponsible' mess he has seen in his 50-year aviation career and blamed it on Buttigieg.

'Safety will always be our top priority, and we will never gamble on this front,' Clark said. 'We welcome the latest development which enables us to resume essential transport links to the U.S. to serve travelers and cargo shippers.'

But Clark warned: 'However, we are also very aware that this is a temporary reprieve, and a long-term resolution would be required.'
WATERLOO, ON, Feb. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - One of Canada's largest networks of independent accounting firms is expanding its presence in Atlantic Canada by welcoming their first New Brunswick firm to the fold, Baker Tilly GMA.

Baker Tilly Canadas Clarence Robinson and Scott Dupuis (CNW Group/Baker Tilly Canada Cooperative)

Located in Riverview, NB, Baker Tilly GMA (formerly AC Stevenson & Partners) is celebrating 40 years as an independent firm by embarking on a new growth journey. As members of the Baker Tilly network, they will continue to function as a fully autonomous team, while accessing the expansive resources and specialty services of other member firms coast-to-coast and internationally.

Baker Tilly GMA has been supporting small- to medium-sized businesses in New Brunswick and beyond with personal and corporate financial solutions since 1982. Their team of Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Insolvency Trustees and support staff provide clients with tailored guidance to ensure their growth and success.

"Our team has always been focused on empowering clients to make informed financial decisions and that's not going to change," says managing partner Clarence Robinson. "Now, thanks to the strength of the broader Baker Tilly network, we are offering expanded support and options to our valued clients."

Baker Tilly Canada chair, Scott Dupuis, is excited to welcome Baker Tilly GMA to the network. "We look forward to increasing our presence in Atlantic Canada, as well as having such a well-respected firm  with an entrenched legacy and reputation for service excellence  join Baker Tilly," he says. "Their team culture and entrepreneurial approach is the perfect fit for our network of agile, intrepid firms."

https://ca.linkedin.com/company/baker-tilly-canada

https://www.bakertilly.ca

About Baker Tilly Canada

Through its independent member firms, the Baker Tilly Canada Cooperative provides a full complement of financial services across every major industry sector through an established platform, deep local expertise and access to the highest quality resources in the international marketplace. As an independent member of Baker Tilly International, Baker Tilly Canada and its member firms are part of a global network of 126 member firms, with 34,700 people in 145 territories.

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SOURCE Baker Tilly Canada Cooperative

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2022/03/c7510.html
Black Lives Matter painting defacers David Nelson and Nicole Anderson allegedly burglarized a dead mans home and also sold drugs.

A California couple who allegedly vandalized a Black Lives Matter mural near their Martinez home has now been hit with several new charges.

David Nelson, 54, and Nicole Anderson, 43, have been charged with burglarizing a dead mans home, and Nelson has also been charged with selling methamphetamine, according to KTVU.

Authorities seized nearly a half-pound of meth from Nelsons home.

Black Lives Matter painting defacers David Nelson (left) and Nicole Anderson (right) make an appearance on Tucker Carlson Tonight. (Photo: Screenshot/Fox News Channel)

Anderson was seen on a viral video in July 2020 painting over the BLM mural an hour after it was painted in the middle of the day. They were charged with vandalism and civil rights violation infractions, and their trial was scheduled to begin this year. The new charges, however, may upend that timing.

According to The Mercury News, Nelson and Anderson broke into the home of a recently deceased man on Adler Avenue in unincorporated Walnut Creek. They were arrested following calls to police by concerned neighbors.

The pair was linked to two cars regularly seen in the area, and upon an investigation of their vehicles and home, the drugs were discovered.

In 2020, when the couple vandalized the mural at the height of protests for racial justice following police officers killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, the two were praised by Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who said they should be commended for their bravery and that the authorities who charged them with a hate crime should be impeached.

Nelson, on the show, said he has no problem with Black people, but is bothered by the BLM movement because they have a hidden agenda and were sick of the narrative.

Why do you think you were charged with a hate crime? Carlson asked, according to a previous Mercury News report.

Its because we decided to stand against an organization we dont agree with, Nelson replied, saying, Were being silenced. Its a cancel culture that were living in.

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Theyve done more harm than theyve done good, Tucker, Nelson added. When we stand up and give them a little iota, taste of their own medicine, this is the extreme measures that are being taken and we cant let it happen.

Man, youve got a lot of brass, an impressed Carlson said. This was a brave thing to do.

The average penalty for drug distribution in California is between three and five years in prison.

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The post CA couple who defaced BLM mural charged with burglary appeared first on TheGrio.
Henrico police apprehended a student at Mills Godwin High School Thursday morning after receiving reports from school personnel that he brandished a firearm on campus.

Police were alerted by Henrico County Public Schools that a juvenile male carried and brandished a firearm on school grounds Wednesday. The next morning around 10 a.m., Henrico School Resource Officers and school administrators were able to detain the student while authorities investigated the allegations.

Police recovered a firearm, ammunition and marijuana in the students possession. Lt. Matt Pecka of the Henrico Police Department confirmed the juvenile was a student at the school.

Pecka says its still too early in the investigation to determine if the student simply carried the firearm in plain view or held it at someone else in a threatening manner. As of now, theres no evidence of credible threats toward any specific school, student or staff member, according to Henrico police.

Were still very early in the investigation. This was all brought to our attention by the schools, and police apprehended the juvenile this morning, Pecka told The Times-Dispatch. We commend our students and faculty who bring this type of information to us.

This is the second time this week police investigated reports of a firearm on Henrico school grounds. On Tuesday just before 2 p.m., security personnel at Henrico High School saw a student with a gun on campus.

Staff alerted Henrico police and then the weapon was recovered as the student arrived to school, according to a Henrico police new release. Officials say there was no credible threat or action related to this incident.

Firearms have no place on school campuses, Pecka said in the news release.

The Godwin High School student arrested Thursday was transported to the Henrico County Juvenile Detention Center. He faces several charges including possession of a firearm on school property, possession of a concealed weapon, underage possession of a firearm and possession of marijuana on school property.

Pecka said these incidents are not taken lightly and encouraged students, staff and parents to alert authorities about information regarding firearms on campus. Henrico police reminded parents and guardians to secure and limit access to their firearms to prevent potential thefts in the future.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Variations in the genes for the newly discovered scent receptors for musk and underarm odor add to a growing body of research suggesting that humans' sense of smell is gradually becoming less sensitive. Sijia Wang of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Joel Mainland of the Monell Chemical Senses Center report these findings in a new study publishing February 3rd in the journal PLOS Genetics.

Everyone experiences smells in their own unique waythe same scent can be pleasant, too intense or even undetectable to different noses. Scientists can combine these differences in scent perception with a person's genetics to discover the role of various scent receptors. In a new study, researchers screened the genomes of 1,000 Han Chinese people to find genetic variations linked to how the participants perceived 10 different scents. Then they repeated the experiment for six odors in an ethnically diverse population of 364 people to confirm their results. The team identified two new receptors, one that detects a synthetic musk used in fragrances and another for a compound in human underarm odor.

Participants carried different versions of the musk and underarm odor receptor genes, and those genetic variations affected how the person perceived the scents. In combination with previously published results, the researchers find that people with the ancestral versions (the version shared with other non-human primates) of the scent receptors tend to rate the corresponding odor as more intense. These findings support the hypothesis that the sensitivity of humans' and other primates' sense of smell has degraded over time due to changes in the set of genes that code for our smell receptors.

The genetic analysis also identified three associations between genes for scent receptors and specific odors that scientists had previously reported. These earlier studies include primarily Caucasian participants. The new results from East Asian and diverse populations suggest that the genetics underlying the ability to detect odors remains constant across people from different backgrounds.

The authors add, "Genome-wide scans identified novel genetic variants associated with odor perception, providing support for the hypothesis that the primate olfactory receptor repertoire has degenerated over time."

More information: Li B, Kamarck ML, Peng Q, Lim F-L, Keller A, Smeets MAM, et al. (2022) From musk to body odor: Decoding olfaction through genetic variation. PLoS Genet 18(1): e1009564. Journal information: PLoS Genetics Li B, Kamarck ML, Peng Q, Lim F-L, Keller A, Smeets MAM, et al. (2022) From musk to body odor: Decoding olfaction through genetic variation.18(1): e1009564. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgen.1009564
For the second year, Floyd Countys Laurel and Barry Turner donated ballistic K-9 vests to a local sheriffs office to protect four-legged officers, this year meeting Carroll County K-9 Officers Buck and Maverick.

Buck, a German Shepard handled by Deputy Michael Baker, is a six-year-old general purpose law enforcement K-9, meaning hes trained in areas like narcotics and apprehending suspects, Laurel explained.

Maverick is a two-year-old Bloodhound handled by Deputy Austin Atkins, and he specializes in tracking, and search and rescue.

While the Floyd County Sheriffs Office doesnt have its own K-9, through mutual aid, K-9 officers from other departments and the Virginia State Police have assisted with a number of narcotics cases in Floyd County.

Laurel said if FCSO ever has the opportunity to bring on a K-9, she and Barry would be happy to provide a vest for it. A retired law enforcement officer herself, Laurel knows what an asset trained K-9s can be on a team.

K-9s need protection, just like their handlers. Theyre investments  theyre part of the team, she said Jan. 25. A lot of these departments dont have the funding (for K-9 vests).

Montgomery County K-9s Archie and Maxx got vests and special doggie bags of treats and toys from the Turners in December 2020, and Buck and Maverick got similar bags of excitement this year on Jan. 24, Laurel said.

Regular caregivers to a total of 12 dogs, 35 cats, two mini-pigs, two turtles, two rabbits and one ferret, Laurel and Barry are passionate about caring for animals and treating them with respect.

The couple adopted a senior Beagle from Floyd County Animal Control at the end of September 2021, lovingly dubbing him Grandpa, and nursed him back to health from a number of ailments, including ulcerated eyes.

Laurel said caring for their wards is a full-time job, with most of the dogs being seniors and requiring a variety of medicines at various times each day.

Since finding his new home, Grandpa has made a few friends in the pack, added a few sweaters to his wardrobe and found his voice  sometimes to the Turners dismay. Laurel said hes one of the most vocal dogs shes ever met, even for a Beagle.

The Turners are already putting out feelers for next years donations and looking forward to meeting more four-legged officers that serve Floyd County.
Aghogho Owhojede, the medical doctor who assumed care of the late Sylvester Oromoni, said the 12-year-old student of Dowen College in Lago...

Aghogho Owhojede, the medical doctor who assumed care of the late Sylvester Oromoni, said the 12-year-old student of Dowen College in Lagos, was not taken to a hospital for treatment.

According to NAN, Owhojede, who has been the family doctor for 15 years, testified before an Ikeja coroners court seeking to unravel the circumstances surrounding the death of the student.

Oromoni died on November 30, 2021, after the doctor assumed care of him for days earlier.

Owhojede was questioned during Tuesdays proceedings for over seven hours (9.30 am to 5.15 p.m.) by the counsel to Dowen College, two accused students of the school, Lagos government, and Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)

Answering questions from Akin George, counsel to Lagos state government, Owhojede said he attended the same church, Gods Grace Ministry International Church, with the Oromoni family.

The doctor told the court that the ailing Oromoni was taken to church for prayers for an unspecified number of days by his family.

What was your response to the treatment at a church as opposed to a proper medical facility? George asked.

Replying, the doctor said: I am aware that the church is not a treatment centre. I am not against prayer, I will prefer a combination of both prayer and medical treatment.

The doctor said on the day Oromoni died (November 30, 2021), he had referred him to Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, for further treatment.

He said the late Oromoni could not be taken to the teaching hospital because his condition deteriorated and he passed away.

Which hospital was he ever taken to before he died? George asked.

He was treated at home, the doctor responded.

Can you confirm that the deceased was not taken to any hospital for treatment? George further asked.

No, he wasnt, my lord, Owhojede said.

Mikhail Kadiri, the coroner, adjourned proceedings until February 7 for the continuation of the hearing.
President Joe Biden speaks to the press about the situation in Ukraine, after arriving on Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, on Jan. 28, 2022. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Biden Heads to New York to Outline New Plan on Stopping Gun Crime

President Joe Biden is calling for more funding from Congress and announcing plans to crack down on shootings as a means of addressing increased nationwide crime in recent years.

The rate of violent crime in the U.S. reached a ten-year high in 2020, according to data from the FBI. This included a year-over-year jump in homicides from 6,977 in 2019 to 9,630 in 2020.

And several major cities reported dramatic increases in crime last year. Some estimate last years nationwide murder rate to be near a 25-year high. The murder rate was estimated to be 6.9 murders per 100,000 people in 2021.

Bidens plan includes a commitment from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to crack down on illegal guns transported up the I-95 corridor to cities like Baltimore and New York. The DOJ will also launch a national ghost gun enforcement initiative, prioritize combating violent crime on the state and local level and pursue unlawful gun sellers, according to a White House Fact Sheet.

Biden also wants Congress to approve a $300 million increase to community policing through the COPS Hiring Program and $200 million for community violence interventions.

The president heads to New York Thursday to outline the plan alongside Attorney General Merrick Garland, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, and members of the New York City Police Department.

Two NYPD officers were shot a killed recently in Harlem. Two campus officers were killed in Virginia Tuesday. Six officers have been shot and killed across the country so far this year, according to the Officers Down Memorial Page.

The White House has defended itself from critics who say the Biden administration is soft on crime by pointing to COPS hiring program funding in the American Rescue Plan and increased funding for COPS programs in the presidents budget.

Gun violence is a huge reason for the surge in crime, said White House press secretary Jen Psaki at a press briefing last week. Underfunding of some police departments and their need for additional resources, something the president has advocated for consistently through the course of his career, thats something we know we need to take action on, and it is absolutely true that he will not be satisfied or complacent when officers are being gunned down or when Americans have to worry whether they can safely ride the subway or bus, that should not be a political issue.

Last summer, the DOJ launched new strike forces focused on addressing firearms trafficking in five major cities and touts taking custody of almost 3,100 crime guns since. In December it announced a violent crime finding initiative, steering $1.6 billion toward addressing a range of public safety challenges.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

NFTs, or nonfungible tokens, created using blockchain technology, first made a splash in the art world as a platform to buy and sell digital art backed by a digital contract. But could NFT digital contracts be useful in other marketplaces? A global, multidisciplinary team of scholars in ethics, law and informatics led by bioethicists at Baylor College of Medicine wrote one of the first commentaries on how this new emerging technology could be repurposed for the healthcare industry.

In a new publication in the journal Science, the researchers propose that the tool could help patients gain more control over their personal health information. NFT digital contracts could provide an opportunity for patients to specify who can access their personal health information and to track how it is shared.

"Our personal health information is completely outside of our control in terms of what happens to it once it is digitalized into an electronic health record and how it gets commercialized and exchanged from there," said Dr. Kristin Kostick-Quenet, first author of the paper and assistant professor at the Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy at Baylor. "NFTs could be used to democratize health data and help individuals regain control and participate more in decisions about who can see and use their health information."

"In the era of big data, health information is its own currency; it has become commodified and profitable," said Dr. Amy McGuire, senior author of the paper and Leon Jaworski Professor of Biomedical Ethics and director of the Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy at Baylor. "Using NFTs for health data is the perfect storm between a huge market place that's evolving and the popularity of cryptocurrency, but there are also many ethical, legal and social implications to consider."

The researchers point out that NFTs are still vulnerable to data security flaws, privacy issues, and disputes over intellectual property rights. Further, the complexity of NFTs may prevent the average citizen from capitalizing on their potential. The researchers believe it is important to consider potential benefits and challenges as NFTs emerge as a potential avenue to transform the world of health data.

"Federal regulations already give patients the right to connect an app of their choice to their doctor's electronic health record and download their data in a computable format," said Dr. Kenneth Mandl, co-author of the paper, director of the Computational Health Informatics Program at Boston Children's Hospital and Donald A.B. Lindberg Professor of Pediatrics and Biomedical Informatics at Harvard Medical School. "It's intriguing to contemplate whether NFTs or NFT-like technology could enable intentional sharing of those data under smart contracts in the future."

Dr. Timo Minssen, I. Glenn Cohen, Dr. Urs Gasser and Dr. Isaac Kohane also contributed to this publication.

Explore further NFT museum opens its doors in United States

More information: Kristin Kostick-Quenet, How NFTs could transform health information exchange, Science (2022). www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abm2004 Journal information: Science Kristin Kostick-Quenet, How NFTs could transform health information exchange,(2022). DOI: 10.1126/science.abm2004
Vandals damaged the base of the rifle on the statue of the Fallen Soldier in Lions Park in Woodland Park. This photo shows the statue before the vandalism. The Courier was unable to get a photo of the damage as the statue was removed by the sculptor, Mike Halterman of Cripple Creek, immediately after the vandalism was discovered.
Man Charged in Alleged Attack on Former Real Housewives of Orange County Star

NEWPORT BEACHA 33-year-old Los Angeles man was charged Feb. 3 with several felonies related to an alleged attack on a former Real Housewives of Orange County cast member in her Newport Beach home.

Ryan Matthew Geraghty was charged with single counts each of extortion, assault with a firearm, criminal threats, corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, possession of a firearm by a felon, and grossly negligent discharge of a firearmall feloniesas well as two misdemeanor counts of possession of a controlled substance. He also faces sentencing enhancements for the personal use of a firearm.

Police were called to perform a welfare check about 5:45 p.m. Tuesday in the 100 block of Medina Way, where a suspect was determined to be holed up inside, prompting a standoff. After about two hours, officers made their way inside the home and police said they found the armed suspect actively threatening the life of the victimwho was identified by her manager as Elizabeth Lyn Vargas.

The suspect was taken into custody. Police said that after speaking with the victim, officers evacuated some surrounding homes while they secured the home. After conducting a search of the residence, the evacuations were lifted and no other suspects were found, police said.

Vargas manager, David Weintraub, issued a statement saying, Elizabeth is doing great now, and added, She wants to thank the Newport Beach Police Department and SWAT teams for saving her from harms way. This was a traumatic experience for her and she feels blessed that she survived.

He said security would be beefed up around Vargass home.

Several media outlets, including Page Six and ABC7, reported that Vargas and Geraghty had briefly dated, and she feared that he may have been attempting to extort her.
Police believe there could be more victims of a psychiatric nurse practitioner accused of human trafficking, and they're asking them to come forward.

Rumors about Mark Damian deClouet Jr., 40, were spreading on social media not long after he was booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center #1 early Wednesday morning.

A 911 call on Monday claiming that a gunshot victim was in front of a Buckeye school can't be confirmed, according to the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office.

But, during a press conference later that day, Rapides Parish Sheriff Mark Wood said the immediate focus was on making sure other possible victims contact them so they can receive the help deClouet should have been providing.

Wood said he hoped there weren't additional victims, but believes there could be.

DeClouet, who also has practiced in Arizona and Lafayette, is accused of paying men cash to bring him "females for sexual purposes," reads a sheriff's office release.

"This was a gentlemen who was supposed to be helping people with their problems, their issues," said Wood. "Instead, he was taking advantage of them."

More: Rapides Sheriff Mark Wood: As long as marijuana is illegal, 'we're gonna fight it'

DeClouet's Linkedin page states he's worked at Axis Behavioral Health & Recovery, which is based in Lafayette, since May 2015. Axis' website states deClouet is an attending clinician at Longleaf Behavioral Hospital in Alexandria, treating inpatient and outpatient patients with acute psychiatric and substance abuse issues.

The business' Facebook page states he is its founder.

Maj. Kary Beebe, head of the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) unit, said deClouet was stopped by his agents on his way to distribute suboxone films. The unit had gotten complaints regarding him in November 2021.

A search warrant was executed at deClouet's home, where agents found suboxone, fentanyl, meth and drug paraphernalia, reads the release.

DeClouet was booked into jail on charges of human trafficking, criminal conspiracy, possession of meth, possession of fentanyl, possession of a controlled dangerous substance III, possession of drug paraphernalia and conspiracy to distribute CDS III.

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He is being held without bail on most of the charges, according to online jail records. A $3,000 total bail has been set on two of the drug charges.

Wood said victims should know they are not in trouble if they come forward, something Rapides District Attorney Phillip Terrell echoed.

"We'll work with them," he said.

Wood said his office is ready to give additional victims help.

"We're not looking to put them in jail," he said. "We know they have problems, that's why they started this. We want to try to finish what this gentleman should have done, and we'll see that they get that help."

Grant Parish Sheriff Steven McCain, whose office is part of RADE,had a message for potential victims.

"You need to know that, if something has happened to you, that the plans are to give you all the help that you need and to know that this person is facing many, many years in prison, but we need your help," he said.

"Like Sheriff Wood said, that's the reason that we're here today, to ask that you please come forward and help us do our job to make sure this guy doesn't have any more victims."

Anyone with information should call the sheriff's office at 318-473-6700, RADE at 445-0357 or Detective Cainan Baker with the Special Victims Unit at 473-6727.

This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Lafayette, Alexandria nurse practitioner arrested on human trafficking
WASHINGTON  For a Biden administration that has sometimes suffered from mistakes in national-security strategy and execution, the Ukraine crisis has been a welcome exception. Policy has been clearly framed and communicated to allies and adversaries alike  blunting Russias ability to manipulate events.

Since U.S. intelligence detected serious Russian planning for an invasion in October, the Biden administration has waged a campaign of deterrence in what the Russians sometimes call the information space. To mobilize allies, U.S. officials have shared sensitive intelligence about Russias moves; when theyve detected Russian plots, theyve disclosed them. These aggressive tactics have checked Russias usual advantages of surprise and stealth.

As this crisis moves toward a decisive point, its useful to review how we got here. This wasnt an accidental confrontation. Russian President Vladimir Putin set it in motion, advertising his ambition to redraw the security map in Europe  without knowing where his bold campaign would end. He must have hoped for a feckless, divided response from the West. So far, that hasnt happened. The NATO alliance, massaged almost daily by President Biden and his team, has mostly held firm.

The storm over Ukraine has been gathering in plain view for nearly a year. Russia mobilized about 70,000 troops on the border in April in what proved a trial run; the troops retreated, but they left behind supplies. The border feint got U.S. attention, and Biden met Putin for a successful summit in Geneva in June. But Ukraine was still festering in Putins mind, as a symbol of what he views as the Wests animus toward Russia.

Putin threw down his gauntlet with a remarkable essay in July, published in Russian, English and Ukrainian with the bland title, On the Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians. Its packed with obscure historical details, but Putins message was that Ukraines pro-Western, anti-Russian stance was, in Putins words, comparable in its consequences to the use of weapons of mass destruction against us. U.S. analysts believe that Putin wrote most of the essay himself, and they note that in Russia, some commentators described his manifesto as a war declaration.

Putins essay was read carefully in the U.S. intelligence community. It showed Putins deep anger over Ukraine, and his feeling that Biden was taking him for granted. Analysts believe Putin is convinced that the United States only takes Russia seriously when the Kremlin threatens military actions. So, the Russian leader decided to dial up the threat level. In September and October, Russian troops moved back toward the Ukraine border.

Alarm bells started ringing in Washington in late October. This didnt look like an exercise, like the one in April did. U.S. intelligence showed that the Russians were planning a broad invasion, from multiple attack points. One especially ominous sign was that in August, Russia rushed to implement a crash ready reserve force that would have 100,000 members by the end of 2021. Evidence suggested that it might be used as an occupation force.

CIA Director William J. Burns travelled to Moscow for an urgent Nov. 2 meeting with top Russian security officials. The message was: Were watching. If you invade Ukraine, there will be massive consequences. After Burns warned the Russians, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines traveled to Brussels to brief NATO allies on the Ukraine intelligence. To convey the full impact, the Biden administration took the unusual step of lowering classification levels for allies so that sensitive information could be shared.

The November meetings set the frame for the drama that has escalated in the months since then. Putin reacted to U.S. warnings by escalating his demands. On Nov. 18, he paid a rare visit to the Russian Foreign Ministry and boasted that because of the Ukraine crisis, tensions have arisen in the West and it is important for them to remain in this state as long as possible. Putin instructed Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to begin drafting Russian demands for serious long-term guarantees that Ukraine wouldnt join NATO.

Putin may have hoped to exploit what he saw as Bidens political weakness, but Bidens difficulties instead seemed to stiffen his backbone. After the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan and a freefall in the polls, Biden couldnt afford to be seen as the congenial compromiser Putin probably expected. Biden chose tough policies and stuck to them. And he made the NATO alliance, scorned by his predecessor Donald Trump, the cornerstone of his policy. White House officials say the administration has had more than 200 diplomatic engagements with allies since the crisis began.

The United States and its NATO allies battled Putin in the information game. In January, the State Department revealed a covert plan by Russian intelligence to recruit Ukrainians to destabilize the country. Last month, Britain disclosed a Russian plot to install a pro-Moscow leader in Kyiv. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other officials tried to disrupt Russian plans by explaining their playbook for deception and destabilization.

Putin is determined to stop what he has called the anti-Russian project. He made a huge gamble that the West would back down in Ukraine. The big surprise for Putin is that he has met an unwavering adversary in Biden  a garrulous, genial career politician who, in this confrontation, has been surprisingly resolute.
A picture widely circulated on social media shows an F-35 in the sea after its crash while attempting to land on the USS Carl Vinson in the South China Sea, Jan. 24, 2022. The U.S. 7th Fleet verified the photo.

The Japanese Coast Guard has issued a navigation warning for mariners to beware of salvage operations as the United States Navy is preparing to recover the F-35C fighter that crashed last week in the South China Sea.

An expert said it may take until the end of March until the plane is recovered.

The F-35C Lightning II fighter jet crashed into the deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson and then fell into the water on Jan. 24.

Japan Coast Guards Hydrological and Oceanographic Department (JHOD) in the navigation warning issued over the weekend said salvage operations are being carried out in the northern part of the South China Sea until further notice.

A navigation warning is a public advisory notice to mariners about changes to navigational aids and current marine activities, or hazards, including fishing zones and military exercises.

According to the coordinates provided by the JHOD, the salvage area is about 170 nautical miles off the western coast of Luzon Island, the Philippines.

The U.S. Navy has yet to confirm this is the salvage operation for their fighter but a spokesman said last week that the Navy is making recovery operations arrangements for the F-35C aircraft involved in the crash aboard the USS Carl Vinson which was conducting an exercise in roughly the same area in the South China Sea.

Experts told RFA the water depth at the site is 3,000 meters to 3,500 meters.

It is unclear whether a salvage vessel has been dispatched. The 7th Fleet has one salvage ship based in Hawaii, the USNS Salvor, and it would take 10 days for it to reach the location.

The first step would be sending an UUV (unmanned underwater vehicle), or a submersible vessel, down there to survey the site, to locate the sunken plane, to see if it is still intact which is apparently the case this time, said Carl Schuster, a retired U.S. Navy captain and former director of operations at the U.S. Pacific Command's Joint Intelligence Center.

A photo and a video clip circulating on social media last week and later verified by the U.S. 7th Fleet shows the F-35C landed in the water the right side up and appeared to be intact before sinking.

Then the next step would be to attach flotation material to the plane to lift it up, explained Schuster, adding: It would probably take five to seven working days to attach everything and start lifting.

The recovered plane would then be put on a transportation vessel. There are many challenges though, he warned, including water currents, poor underwater visibility and the weather.

If the weather holds out, everything goes smoothly, youre looking at a 15- to 20-day, three-ship operation once the salvage vessels are on site, the naval specialist said.

He predicted that if the ships get there by mid-February, the mission would be complete before the end of March.

A rescue and salvage ship USNS Salvor, which is based in Hawaii, is seen docked, in the United States. [Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy Military Sealift Command]

Costly operation

The U.S. Navy does not normally reveal the cost of their activities, including salvage operations, but were looking at several million dollars to do the recovery [of the crashed aircraft], said Schuster.

The $100-million F-35, developed by the American aerospace giant Lockheed Martin Corp., is a state-of-the-art aircraft with superior stealth performance that is difficult to catch on radar.

According to Lockheed Martin, the F-35C variant is the first and worlds only stealth strike fighter designed and built explicitly for Navy carrier operations. The first F-35C was put into operation in only 2019.

China last week said it had no interest in recovering the wreckage that may contain sensitive technological information.

However, analysts said Beijing would still closely monitor the area and the recovery process, and the U.S. would not want the wreckage to fall into Chinas hands.

I think it's obvious that the Chinese would be looking for the wreckage as well, Richard Bitzinger, senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, said in an earlier interview with RFA.

He said pieces of wreckage can provide valuable information about the F-35, such as its skin, stealth sensors, and data processing.
EV

kWh

Aptera will probably be the first company to pull that off after Chris Anthony and Steve Fambro bought it back. It is not clear if Fox e-Mobility has former partners from MIA Electric or if they are just a team that thought the first MIA a fantastic idea and bought it. If you are not familiar with this tiny, let us tell you what the MIA was.Conceived by Turkish designer Murat Gunak  a former head designer at Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz  the MIA was a minuscule electric car presented in June 2011. It was obviously on purpose: Gunak thought urban vehicles should have a small footprint. Having a central driving position made it easy to export and also gave it a slight McLaren F1 feeling.MIAs three-seater version was 2.87 meters (113 inches) long, and it also had the L (four-seater) or Van derivatives, which were 3.19 m (125.5 in) long. The wheelbase was the same for all of them: 1.81 m (71.1 in), as were the width (1.64 m, or 64.6 in) and the height (1.55 m, or 61 in). With sliding doors (only two on the sides), it looked like the offspring of a first-generation Renault Twingo and a Peugeot 1007  dont ask us which one was the father.The tiny EV could have two LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery pack options: 8or 12 kWh. With the largest one, the MIA could travel up to 130 kilometers (81 mi) at a top speed of 100 kph (62 mph). Being so small, it was also very light, which is essential for more range. The vehicles were produced in Cerizay, France. Sadly, MIA Electric was a spin-off of Heuliez, a company that was already enduring difficult times. When Heuliez closed its doors in 2012, MIA Electric followed suit.The new MIA is called MIA 2.0. It looks like the same vehicle with just some improvements. Fox e-Mobility confirmed it would be 3.20 m long and weigh less than 1,000 kg (2,204 lbs). It makes perfect sense: the company states that the MIA 1.0 could be driven on highways with the M1 homologation. If it can spare homologation costs with the MIA 2.0, it will save a lot of money.According to Fox e-Mobility's website , the new car will have a 225-km (140-mi) range that can be extended thanks to an optional secondary battery pack. With it, the MIA 2.0 would be able to travel 450 km (280 mi). A recent document released by the company states the range is 200 km or 400 km. Were not sure which ones are correct, but there's a great chance that none of the above is. After all, theres no prototype yet, which is the first warning sign about the project.Theres no information about the chemistry of this battery pack, but it is very likely still LFP due to the costs. All we know is that InoBat Auto will be the supplier of complete battery systems. Considering the range, it is fair to say the second battery pack will have the same size as the main one. Unfortunately, the website also does not inform how big Fox e-Mobility plans them to be.With only CGI images to present, the MIA 2.0 could be compared to anything presented so far by Alpha Motors , which is not very reassuring. The main difference between these companies is that we know who is behind Fox e-Mobility.Philippe Perret is its CEO, and the project is under the responsibility of Christian Jung, an automotive engineer who worked at BMW , Porsche, and was the CTO (chief technical officer) at Automobili Pininfarina before joining Fox e-Mobility with the same job.The company will not build a factory: it will have a manufacturing contract for the new MIA. However, it did not disclose if it already has a partner for that. It only said that it would be a leading vehicle manufacturer. The MIA will have its own skateboard, which means it will only hire someone to build the vehicles. The project will belong entirely to Fox e-Mobility, which will allow it to license it to other companies.Selling the cars and licensing them to companies outside Europe are two of the revenue streams the company believes it can have. The last one is to sell carbon credits to companies in need of that help.On its website, Fox e-Mobility invites people to become investors. The company is already listed on the Dusseldorf, Hamburg, and Berlin stock exchanges. In a recent document, the company states that Gunak is involved in the project and that the interior and exterior designs have been recently approved.Production should start in 2024, and the first prototypes should be produced in 2022. Fox e-Mobility promises that it will cost less than 20,000 ($22,879 at the current exchange rate), something that the Dacia Spring already delivers. Perhaps the new MIA 2.0 offers something else to become a compelling choice. We have tried to contact the company to learn more about it and will tell you everything we hear back from it.
San Franciscos police chief has pulled out of an agreement allowing District Attorney Chesa Boudin to investigate police shootings and in-custody deaths, accusing the DA's office of 'concealing' evidence and not being impartial in use-of-force cases.

In a letter sent Wednesday by Police Chief Bill Scott to Boudin, who he has publicly criticized for showing leniency toward criminals, the police chief cited court testimony last week by an investigator with the DAs office. She said she felt pressured to sign an affidavit against an officer who left out evidence that could have helped the officer during his upcoming trial.

'It appears that the DAs office has an ongoing practice of investigations against SFPD officers that includes withholding and concealing information and evidence the SFPD is entitled to have' under the agreement, Scott wrote.

San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott (left) on Wednesday sent a letter to DA Chesa Boudin (right), announcing he was pulling out of an agreement that has allowed the DA's office to investigate police shooting, in-custody deaths and use-of-force cases

Scott accused the DA of 'concealing' evidence that could have possibly helped former officer Terrance Stangel during his upcoming trial stemming from the 2019 beating of domestic violence suspect Dacari Spiers (pictured)

Rachel Marshall, a spokesperson for Boudins office, called the decision 'disappointing but no coincidence' as the officer is about to go on trial. She added that 'San Franciscans deserve to be safe including from unwarranted police violence.'

The memorandum of understanding was first reached between Scott and Boudins predecessor in 2019 and was renewed last year for another two years. The purpose of the pact was to give the DAs office the lead in criminal investigations of police and give the public confidence in decisions to charge officers.

Boudin, whose parents were members of the radical left-wing Weather Underground and spent decades in prison, is a former public defender who was elected DA in 2019 as part of a national wave of progressive prosecutors opposed to mass incarceration and in favor of restorative justice.

He faces a recall election in June over his soft-on-crime policies amid soaring crime rates.

The DA has been charging people with theft in fewer than 50 per cent of all cases throughout his tenure, recent data showed, leading to claims that Boudin had effectively legalized theft by refusing to prosecute lower-level offenders.

Businesses throughout the city have reduced their hours or closed entirely because of an uptick in brazen smash-and-grab robberies, and Boudin has been lambasted by local critics for 'destroying the fabric of our city.'

DAs investigator Magen Hayashi testified last week that she was pressured to sign an affidavit against Terrance Stangel, a former police officer facing battery and assault charges for beating Dacari Spiers with a baton.

She said she was ordered to remove parts in the affidavit stating that Spiers was abusing his girlfriend before his run-in with Stangel.

Boudin faces recall election in June over his lenient approach to criminal justice amid soaring homicide rates in San Francisco

'I was told to remove sections  that it wasnt relevant,' she told the judge. 'It was a general understanding in my experience in this office, if you dont sign these things youll be fired.'

Stangel's defense attorney filed a motion to dismiss the case, accusing the DA's office of failing to tell police about a follow-up interview with a witness, and then covering it up, reported San Francisco Chronicle.

The lawyer argued that her client's use of force was justified, given the domestic violence situation.

Hayashi's bombshell testimony during a pretrial hearing prompted San Francisco's Board of Supervisors to halt the approval of a $700,000 settlement for Spiers, reported KTVU.

The man suffered fractures after Stangel struck him with his baton near Fisherman's Wharf's in October 2019.

San Francisco DA's parents served decades in prison over botched robbery and he was raised by Weather Underground members Kathy Boudin and David Gilbert, Chesa Boudin's radical leftist parents, spent decades in prison after taking part in a botched armored vehicle robbery that left three dead Chesa Boudin, a progressive Democrat, entered the San Francisco district attorney's race as an underdog, running on a platform of ending mass incarceration and addressing racial disparities in law enforcement, and won by fewer than 3,000 ballots. Voters were taken by his unusual life story, which lends insight into his view on the criminal justice and prison system. When Boudin he was just 1 year old in 1981, his parents, who were members of the far-left Weather Underground, dropped him off with a babysitter and took part in an armored car robbery in upstate New York that left two police officers and a security guard dead. His mother, Kathy Boudin, served 22 years behind bars and his father, David Gilbert, was jailed for life - until outgoing NY Governor Andrew Cuomo commuted his sentence for murder in August. They didn't fire shots that day and the victims were killed by the Black Liberation Army. Boudin was cared for by members of a radical left-wing group and says his experiences of visiting his parents in jail galvanized his progressive views on law and order. 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. Boudin was raised by his parents Weather Underground compatriots, Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn. Advertisement

Stangel faces charges of criminal battery and assault. His trial is scheduled to begin next Monday.

Meanwhile, Scott has reached out to the office of State Attorney General Rob Bonta for guidance on other agencies that could provide independent investigations of possible police misconduct, including police shootings, in-custody deaths and use of force.

The attorney generals office has the ability to investigate certain incidents involving police and is doing so now after San Francisco police officers killed an unarmed man at the airport last month.
Georgia Coulson thought she was suffering from 'freshers' flu' but she actually had sepsis. (Caters)

A student was left fighting for her life after mistaking the symptoms of sepsis for freshers' flu.

Georgia Coulson, 20, from Guildford, Surrey, spent days partying in September 2021 during freshers' week, which left her feeling run down and suffering from a fever.

As the days passed and her condition worsened, the maths student started to get more concerned.

Having called 111 twice, Coulson says doctors believed she could have coronavirus, despite negative PCR and lateral flow tests.

She was eventually told to come to A&E after concerns she could have appendicitis, but by the time Coulson reached A&E her body was going through septic shock and she was put into an induced coma for 16 days.

Now out of hospital and feeling "lucky to be alive" Coulson hopes her story will help to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of sepsis.

Read more: 'We thought Mum was just exhausted. A few days later, she was gone.'

Coulson was left fighting for her life after mistaking sepsis for 'freshers flu'. (Caters)

I had never heard of sepsis before so I just assumed I had an intense version of freshers flu as I was partying a lot," she says. I spent three days in bed suffering with hot and cold sweats, fatigue and a sharp pain every time I took a breath.

I called 111 twice and was told it was likely to be coronavirus even though I had taken a PCR and lateral flow test which both came back negative.

I was hoping it was going to clear up after a few days but I was deteriorating by the minute.

At the time, I didnt realise a high temperature and shivers were symptoms of sepsis."

Coulson says by the time she arrived at A&E she was too weak to stand and was rushed for further testing, including a CT scan and an X-Ray.

I was diagnosed with pneumonia and told I had gone into septic shock," she says. My blood pressure was extremely low and I was put onto a ventilator in intensive care.

The first night was very touch and go for a while as my oxygen levels were dangerously low.

Read more: These are the signs and symptoms of sepsis to be aware of

Story continues

Coulson was in an induced coma for 16 days. (Caters)

After 16 days in an induced coma, Coulson woke to find out she had actually been battling sepsis.

She was discharged on October 20 2021 and is still struggling with the aftermath of the infection.

It is a long road to recovery," she says.

The doctor said it could take six months to a year to feel normal again.

At the moment, I am still fatigued and sometimes my lungs hurt."

Watch: Mum who lost limbs to sepsis looking forward to hugging her children thanks to bionic arms

Coulson says she is sharing her story to raise awareness about the potentially life-threatening condition and urge others to get their symptoms checked.

If I had gone to my GP or A&E a few days before, it could have been spotted quicker," she explains.

Sepsis spreads fast so another day at home could have cost me my life.

"I hope my story encourages others to get checked out when they feel unwell."

Read more: Mum who lost all four limbs to sepsis will soon be able to hug her children

Coulson is now at home and recovering. (Caters)

What is sepsis?

According to the the UK Sepsis Trust sepsis (also known as blood poisoning) is a serious complication of an infection, that without quick treatment can lead to multiple organ failure and death.

Sepsis is the immune systems overreaction to an infection or injury.

"Normally our immune system fights infection  but sometimes, for reasons we dont yet understand, it attacks our bodys own organs and tissues," the site explains.

Latest figures estimate that there are about 250,000 cases every year in the UK, and more than 52,000 deaths, thats around 5 people in the UK being killed by sepsis every hour.

Around a quarter of all sepsis survivors suffer permanent, life-changing after effects of the condition.

What are the symptoms of sepsis?

The UK Sepsis Trust sepsis can initially look like flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection.

But there is no one sign to look out for, and symptoms are often different between adults and children.

Symptoms to look out for in adults according to the NHS:

a high temperature or a low body temperature

chills and shivering

a fast heartbeat

problems or changes to your breathing

feeling or acting differently from normal  you do not seem your usual self

Symptoms to look out for in children according to the NHS:

looks mottled, bluish or pale

is very lethargic or difficult to wake

feels abnormally cold to touch

is breathing very fast

has a rash that does not fade when you press it

has a fit or convulsion

If left untreated, the condition can be severe, and cause even more unpleasant symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, feeling or being sick, severe muscular pain, breathlessness, pale or mottled skin, and in some cases, unconsciousness.

You may even notice that you arent urinating as much. If you notice any of these, you should go to your nearest A&E and state that youre having symptoms of septic shock, Dr Gall explains.

How is sepsis treated?

The NHS says that if sepsis is detected early enough and has not affected vital organs yet, it may be possible to treat the infection at home with antibiotics.

But if the condition becomes severe or leads to sepsis shock, most will need to be admitted to hospital, with some requiring treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU)

People with severe sepsis often witness problems with their vital organs, which means they are likely to be very ill and the condition can be fatal.

However, if sepsis is identified and treated quickly enough, in most cases patients will make a full recovery with no lasting problems.

Additional reporting Caters.

Watch: Bill Clinton releases video message as he recovers from sepsis- 'I'll be around a lot longer'
You cant win a civil lawsuit where no one got hurt. That truth likely will determine the outcome of a legal action bent on killing an anti-racism program in the Albemarle County schools.

Eight students and nine of their parents have sued the school system. They say a month-long middle school anti-racism pilot program that ended last May subjected the children to unconstitutional discrimination. They say the program forced the children to view things through the lens of race.

The school system responded last week with a simple defense: The discontinued pilot program hurt no one.

The program conveyed information. It forced no one to pledge allegiance to principles which violated their religious beliefs or other life philosophies taught to them by their parents. All students were asked to attend. One child whose parents sued chose not to attend the pilot because his or her parents did not want him or her to do so. The school system did not punish that child.

The pilot program is over. Its not coming back. Still, the school system remains committed to an anti-racism policy designed to correct disparities by race in student access to learning opportunities, that responds to racial harassment and bullying and that closes long-standing opportunity and achievement gaps among students.

So where is the injury to those who sued? According to the lawsuit, one child felt confused and upset by the pilot program. A second child felt uncomfortable. A third child was confronted by two other students about being Catholic.

As UVa law professor Joy Milligan told The Daily Progress, civil suits require specific proof of injury, be it physical or psychological. In legal terms this is called a cause of action. Milligan said the suit in its present form struggles to show any cause of action. No one got punished for not agreeing. No one was told they could not express their viewpoint. Nobody got graded down. At this point, no evidence shows that the anti-racism pilot program or any other effort by Albemarle schools to educate about racism has hurt anyone.

As the school systems response pointed out, courts have already decided that schools addressing racism is a legitimate teaching interest. They have also ruled that while parents can pick where their children go to school, they dont get to individually dictate the content of their childs education.

Heres why: Roughly 13,500 students attend Albemarle schools. In this case, nine parents of eight students want to dictate a critical piece of the curriculum for the other 13,492 children.

The suit is one of several filed across the country by conservatives who want to ban teaching that institutional racism may have created structural inequality between Whites and Blacks in American society. The subtext is that such a discussion is itself racist because it will cause African Americans to feel different and will cause them to hate Caucasians as a race. The Arizona-based group Americans Defending Freedom (ADF) that bankrolls the Albemarle suit bills itself as defending religious freedom. It has also been involved in legal fights against homosexual and transgender rights initiatives in public schools.

Most major historical associations and many educational groups support school discussions about past race relations. Meanwhile, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, made his first priority after taking office Jan. 15 an executive order that banned school discussions of inherently divisive concepts, including Critical Race Theory.

For the record, Albemarle does not teach Critical Race Theory. Yet the county is being forced to shell out thousands of county residents tax dollars to defend itself from the ADF suit. While the governor and ADF try to censor talk about racisms legacy, what remains missing from the Albemarle case are victims.

The school systems response got to the heart of this with a reminder: General distress over a general policy does not alone allege injury sufficient for standing in this lawsuit.

Heres an example of something that does: You are legally forbidden to attend schools with students with a different skin color. Some Virginians, Black and White, remember when the state forced that on us. Todays students should, too.
- The Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator seeks to advance discovery and solutions in energy, life sciences and sustainability using quantum computing, AI and high-performance computing

- IBM plans to deploy its first quantum system in Canada empowering Quebec's Quantum Innovation Zone

- Discovery Accelerator builds on existing semiconductor innovation ecosystem as a further step to enhance Quebec's thriving high-tech economy

QUEBEC CITY, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Government of Quebec and IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced plans for a new partnership to further establish Quebec as a leading technology hub in the development of quantum computing, artificial intelligence, semiconductors and high-performance computing through the launch of the Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator. The new technology hub aims to focus on developing new projects, collaborations, and skills-building initiatives in crucial areas of research such as energy, life sciences, and sustainability.

The Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator will work in alignment with the goals of the Government of Quebec's Innovation Zones in Sherbrooke and Microelectronics Innovation Zone in Bromont, promoting the use of advanced technology across the province. Working with partners in the scientific research and private sectors, the Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator plans to make advances using computational technologies such as:

Quantum computing: Leveraging an IBM Quantum System One to be deployed at IBM's Bromont facility for the use of the Government of Quebec and its partners, to facilitate the mission of the Government of Quebec's Innovation Zones the Discovery Accelerator will explore complex problems including the modeling of new materials and how quantum computing can be used as part of broader sustainability efforts.

Leveraging an IBM Quantum System One to be deployed at IBM's facility for the use of the Government of and its partners, to facilitate the mission of the Government of Innovation Zones the Discovery Accelerator will explore complex problems including the modeling of new materials and how quantum computing can be used as part of broader sustainability efforts. AI: Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator teams will use a range of artificial intelligence models to explore use cases such as the discovery of new drugs.

Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator teams will use a range of artificial intelligence models to explore use cases such as the discovery of new drugs. High performance computing: The Discovery Accelerator will leverage a major base of high-performance computing (HPC) in order to integrate classical and quantum technology to explore various scientific challenges.

The confluence of these technologies through the Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator in Quebec represents a further step in promoting technology development in the region to expand the horizons of computation, and builds on IBM's deep knowledge of semiconductor design and packaging, including the work carried out IBM's facility in Bromont, Quebec.

"Quebec's potential to innovate in high technology and be a leader in the economy of the future is immense. We have world-class universities, creative entrepreneurs and talented workers. The dedicated IBM quantum computer will pave the way for us to make incredible progress in areas such as artificial intelligence and modeling. Quantum science is the future of computing. With our innovation zone, we're positioning ourselves at the forefront of this future," said Francois Legault, Premier of Quebec.

"The Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator is further proof of our commitment to building open communities of innovation to tackle the big problems of our time through a combination of quantum computing, AI and high-performance computing, all integrated through the hybrid cloud," said Dr. Dario Gil, SVP and Director of Research, IBM. "This new Discovery Accelerator, along with our work in semiconductor packaging, will bring to bear the full scope of IBM's groundbreaking technology to Quebec's world-class scientific and industrial communities. We are proud to be working with the Government of Quebec, as well as private sector and academic partners, to take innovation in Quebec to the next level."

In addition to its quantum system in Quebec, IBM aims to advance technology education and skills development, as well as providing use of software technologies such as the Generative Modeling Toolkit for Science and RoboRXN. These technologies serve as part of IBM's growing Accelerated Discovery portfolio designed to speed up research and expedite development in the life sciences including genomics and drug design.

The Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator is the fourth such Accelerator to be announced in the last 12 months, following similar announcements with Cleveland Clinic,the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the UK's Science and Technology Facilities Council Hartree Centre.

About IBM

For more information about IBM, visit www.ibm.com.

Media Contact

Hugh Collins

IBM Research Communications

Hughdcollins@ibm.com

Lorraine Baldwin

IBM Canada Communications

lorraine@ca.ibm.com

Mathieu St-Amand

Cabinet de Ministre de l'Economie et de l'Innovation

Mathieu.St-Amand@economie.gouv.qc.ca

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SOURCE IBM
Across the University of Georgia campus, dogs with yellow vests can be seen walking with handlers or sitting in on classes. They are being taught by students to become guide animals for people with visual impairments around the United States.
YEREVAN, 3 FEBRUARY, ARMENPESS. The next meeting of the special representatives of Armenia and Turkey within the framework of the normalisation process between the two countries will take place on February 24 in Vienna. As reported by Armenpress, Foreign Ministry spokesman Vahan Hunanyan wrote on his Facebook page.

Deputy President of the National Assembly of Armenia Ruben Rubinyan represents Armenia, while former Ambassador of Turkey to the USA Serdar Klc represents Turkey. The first meeting had taken place on January 14 in Moscow.
Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.
DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "United States Personal Accessories Market, By Product Type (Jewelry, Watches, Bags & Wallet, and Others (Eyewear, Belts, Caps & hats, etc.)), By End User (Female, and Male), By Distribution Channel, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The United States Personal Accessories Market was valued at USD91.36 billion in 2020 and is anticipated to reach USD144.24 billion by the year 2026, growing at a CAGR value of 8.15% in the forecast period, 2022-2026.

The market growth can be attributed to increased influence of the fashion trends. Through multimedia and online social platforms, various designer, modern, and fashionable personal accessories are available for the consumers.

Inclination of the young consumers toward fashionable accessories, demand to follow the ongoing trends, and increasing popularity of these products is driving the growth of the United States Personal Accessories Market in the upcoming five years. Aggregated promotions, marketing and influence through celebrity promotions and advertisements are also the major factors supporting the growth of the United States Personal Accessories Market.

Moreover, factors like rising disposable income among the younger population and adult population, increasing brand awareness, surging demands for imported accessories from global brands, as well as AI supported online shopping influences the growth of the United States Personal Accessories Market in the future five years.

Online channels are most influential in terms of availability of the large section of variety and versions. Easier import regulations, business expansion by the global brands over online platform is also indirectly aiding to the growth of the United States Personal Accessories Market in the forecast years, until 2026.

Jewelry, bags & wallets, and watches sectors provide additional support to the fashion industry. The primary purpose of these accessories is to give the user the impression of being well-dressed and appealing to others, making the personal accessories industry one of the most well-organized and developed.



Based on end-user, the market is further bifurcated into male and female. Female segment is anticipated to hold the largest revenue shares of the market since, women have been traditional admirers of personal accessories like jewelry, handbags, watches, hats, etc.

Although, male sub-segment is also expected to register fastest growing CAGR in the upcoming five years on the account of evolving consumer preferences. The men-grooming industry is also rapidly evolving and expanding with male population being equally interested and acceptable to fashion, and accessories.

The personal accessories market in the United States is highly fragmented due to many local and international suppliers. The personal accessories market has become an attractive destination for investments and several large multinational companies are entering into this market.

Some of the major players operating in this market are

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton Inc.

Tapestry, Inc.

Richemont North America Inc.

Apple Inc.

Kering Americas, Inc. (Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent , and Bottega Veneta)

, and Bottega Veneta) Pandora Jewelry Inc.

CHANEL, Inc.

The Swatch Group (U.S.) Inc.

PRADA USA Corp

Corp Burberry Limited

Report Scope:

Years considered for this report:

Historical Years: 2016-2019

Base Year: 2020

Estimated Year: 2021

Forecast Period: 2022-2026

United States Personal Accessories Market, By Product Type

Jewelry

Watches

Bags & Wallet

Others (Eyewear, Belts, Caps & Hats, etc.)

United States Personal Accessories Market, By End-User

Female

Male

United States Personal Accessories Market, By Distribution Channel

Exclusive Stores

Multi-Brand Stores

Specialty Stores

Online Market

Supermarket/Hypermarket

United States Personal Accessories Market, By Region

South

West

North-East

Mid-West

United States Personal Accessories Market, By Top 10 Leading States

California

Texas

Florida

New York

Illinois

Massachusetts

New Jersey

Ohio

Washington

Michigan

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/52u7lw

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets
Marion, North Carolina, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Greene Concepts, Inc. (OTC Pink: INKW) is proud to announce the launch of its new e-commerce website powered by Shopify . An important feature that has been enabled is the product locator tab , which allows consumers to find retail locations selling BE WATERTM throughout the country.

Coming soon is a new product tab sharing a variety of company merchandise designed to help market the Greene Concepts and Be Water brands. Hats, shirts, hoodies, and mugs are some of the merchandises that will be available soon on the Companys Shopify website. It will be announced on social media when the link is live in the near future.

Amy McNally, Greene Concepts Vice-President of Marketing states, Our new Shopify e-commerce platform provides a cloud-based infrastructure that is capable of serving exponentially more customers. As a high-growth business, scalability is critical as we build our BE WATER brand at a rapid pace. We needed to transition to an e-commerce platform that could easily manage traffic and sales spikes as we continue to generate national accounts and expand our retail footprint through newly formed partnerships. In addition, as we add new product locations daily, we will continue to update our product locator tab to make finding Be Water in retail stores easy for our supporters.

Lenny Greene, CEO of Greene Concepts, notes, Our new e-commerce site will provide a trusted platform to deliver our Greene Concepts merchandise nationally and helps us market the Greene Concepts and BE WATER brands to the public. This is our way to partner with our stakeholders and loyal customers to help us build additional brand awareness for BE WATER and for Greene Concepts.

Mr. Greene concludes, I am also happy to inform everyone that we have a Store Locator page that displays the locations that currently sell BE WATER, and we look forward to continued expansion of locations on that list. In addition to store presence, we are in 27 Amazon fulfillment centers, which offers another trusted way for consumers to purchase BE WATER. We will add additional retail locations as they are reported by our distributors. I want to take this opportunity to publicly thank our Marion, NC bottling plant manager Ken Porter and the rest of our bottling plant staff for their amazing work and dedication in helping us meet the ever-increasing production demand which we expect will grow exponentially in 2022.

Current retail locations to purchase BE WATER are listed on the Companys BE WATER webpage at: https://bewaterbeyou.com/a/store-locator/list . Consumers may also purchase the companys BE WATER at all 185+ Camping World locations and at Amazon.com .

Additionally, the Company would like to announce that it has formally signed an agreement with a well-established food/beverage broker in North Carolina to represent Greene Concepts along with BE WATER to their retail clients consisting of both regional and national retail chains. The food/beverage broker has a first-rate rollout strategy, and the company is extremely confident in the future success of the partnership.

Follow Greene Concepts Inc. on Twitter as well as BE WATER TM

About Greene Concepts, Inc.

Greene Concepts, Inc. ( http://www.greeneconcepts.com ) is a publicly traded company whose purpose is to provide the world with high-quality, healthy and enhanced beverage choices that meet the nutritional needs of its consumers while refreshing their mind, body and spirit. The Companys flagship product, BE WATER , is a premium artesian bottled water that supports total body health and wellness. Greene Concepts beverage and bottling plant is located in Marion, North Carolina, and their water is ethically sourced from seven spring and artesian wells that are fed from a natural aquifer located deep beneath the Blue Ridge Mountains. Greene Concepts continues to develop and market premium beverage brands designed to enhance the daily lives of consumers.

Safe Harbor: This Press Release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements are based on the current plans and expectations of management and are subject to a few uncertainties and risks that could significantly affect the company's current plans and expectations, as well as future results of operations and financial condition. A more extensive listing of risks and factors that may affect the company's business prospects and cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the reports and other documents filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission and OTC Markets, Inc. OTC Disclosure and News Service. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, because of new information, future events or otherwise.

CONTACT:

Greene Concepts, Inc.

Investor Relations

IR@greeneconcepts.com

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EV

Unless you're a very special kind of enthusiast, it's safe to say we can all do without dirty, stinky, inefficient gas and diesel cargo vans are, something society can very much do without. In the era of the all-electric revolution, one Colorado company is taking the rolling chassis of vans we're all familiar with and turning them into eco-friendly EVs.Say hello to Lightning eMotors, a company that recently signed a long-term contract with General Motors to develop zero tailpipe emission battery-electric medium-duty fleet vans. The new agreement means the company will be the first GM Specialty Vehicle Manufacturer (SVM) to provide fully electric Class 3 through Class 6 commercial vehicles in the United States.As per the agreement, the company will electrify medium-duty platforms under the GM banner for applications ranging from fleet cargo vans to school busses and even private contractor applications. It's hoped that potential governmentincentives combined with the global push towards an all-electric motor infrastructure will be a combination that sees the company blast off into national legitimacy."We are thrilled that GM is working with Lightning eMotors to make GM's medium-duty truck platform the basis for new electric vehicles," said Lightning eMotors' CEO and co-founder, Tim Reeser."GM's inclusive approach to electrification is a great match for Lightning's position and role as a leading powertrain supplier in the commercial vehicle space. Commercial vehicles and commercial vehicle powertrains are complex, with thousands of unique components, requiring years of custom software development and on-road testingand Lightning has products in fleet use today and ready for customers to roll out this year."Fans of camper vans no doubt know that GM has provided third-party coachbuilders and upfitters with quality medium-duty chassis for a wide variety of applications. Lightning eMotors has a plan to use these bare frames to construct the fully EV vans of the future.
An Ontario woman is being applauded for her incredible 'detective work' after she realized she was being catfished on a dating app  simply by noticing the man's Apple Watch.

Jocelyn, 29, explained on TikTok that she recently matched with a 'cute' 29-year-old man named Myles on Bumble, and soon had moved the conversation to text messages to set up a date.

But when Jocelyn, an iPhone user, noticed that Myles' texts were green  the color Apple designates for non-iPhone users  she grew suspicious.

She quickly referred back to his profile, where he was pictured wearing an Apple Watch  and used that as a starting point into digging into the man's real identity.

In a viral TikTok video, Jocelyn, 29, said she recently matched with a 'cute' 29-year-old man named Myles on Bumble

When they moved their conversation to text messages, she noticed his messages were green - the color iPhone users see for non-iPhone users

'Welcome back to another episode of, Could dating be any more fun?' Jocelyn began.

She said that when she matched with Myles, she was 'into it' and found him good-looking, so she sent him a message.

'I don't really give him too much information about myself. I've definitely chatted with people too long on the app in the past, so I'm like, I'm not doing that this time.

'He says we should get dinner sometime, and I'm like, "Great," because I don't want to talk in the app, I want to meet in person and see if I even like him.

'I say yes to having dinner. He says maybe some time this week. I say sure, sounds good to me, and I give him my number and say text me when and where.

'He texts me pretty quickly being like, "Hey, it's so-and-so,"' she continues.

She found that suspicious, because one of the photos on his profile showed him wearing an Apple Watch

Jocelyn did a reverse image search on Google with Myles' profile picture to see if he was really who he claimed to be

The photos turned out to belong to a man named Ron who lives in New York

But right away she notices that his incoming text message is green  meaning it's coming from an Android, not an iPhone, because iPhone messages appear as blue to other iPhone users.

Jocelyn doesn't have anything against Android phones, but the green text was suspicious  because Myles' photos indicated that he was an Apple user.

On TikTok, she shared an image from his profile, which shows a man wearing an Apple watch.

'So I do a reverse image search of some of the pictures he used on his profile, and what do we have here? An Instagram model from New York!' she says, showing the profile for a Brooklyn man named Ron

'I live in Ontario, so math's not mathing. The guy I matched with is pretending to be somebody named Myles  not Ron, the actual guy who's in the picture.

'Thankfully, I hardly spoke to this guy and invested zero percent of my time, and have not even told him yet that I know that he's catfishing me.

Jocelyn wanted to call him out for catfishing her, but he stopped responding to her messages

In a followup video, Jocelyn went on to share how their text message conversation continued, with her suggesting Friday night for dinner.

'Once he nails down a place, I'm gonna then send a screenshot and be like, "So are you gonna show up or this guy?" and then send the Instagram,' she said, adding that she also reported his profile on Bumble.

But in a final update, Jocelyn said that Myles never replied to her last message.

'I'm thinking he may have seen the TikTok,' she said, adding: 'If he's looking for attention and I'm just wanting to set up dinner, it's not really fun for him.'

Jocelyn's story has gone viral, with her original video being viewed over 634,000 times.

TikTok commenters are incredibly impressed with how she discovered his secret

One commenter even claimed that she matched with Myles as well and had a similar story.

Others are just incredibly impressed with how she discovered his secret.

'This is the most impressive detective work I've seen yet!!' wrote one commenter, while another said MTV's Catfish would be proud.

'The detective work here is 10/10. The speed in which you exposed him!!' said another.

Bumble has chimed in as well, assuring Jocelyn that they have permanently removed the man's account.
Quantum computing is still rare enough that merely installing a system in a country is a breakthrough, and IBM is taking advantage of that novelty. The company has forged a partnership with the Canadian province of Quebec to install what it says is Canada's first universal quantum computer. The five-year deal will see IBM install a Quantum System One as part of a Quebec-IBM Discovery Accelerator project tackling scientific and commercial challenges.

The team-up will see IBM and the Quebec government foster microelectronics work, including progress in chip packaging thanks to an existing IBM facility in the province. The two also plan to show how quantum and classical computers can work together to address scientific challenges, and expect quantum-powered AI to help discover new medicines and materials.

IBM didn't say exactly when it would install the quantum computer. However, it will be just the fifth Quantum One installation planned by 2023 following similar partnerships in Germany, Japan, South Korea and the US. Canada is joining a relatively exclusive club, then.

The country is no stranger to quantum computing. Controversial company D-Wave is based in Canada, after all. Even so, the IBM move is significant. It gives Canada a more generalized system that could conquer problems impractical to solve using conventional supercomputers. This won't necessarily revolutionize Canada's scientific community, but it could provide an edge until quantum computing is relatively commonplace.
New Delhi:

Realme X2 was launched in India on Tuesday. The key features on the newly-launched smartphone include gaming-focussed Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G SoC, a quad rear camera setup, and a waterdrop-style display notch, among others. Launched back in China in September, the smartphone is originally called the Realme XT 730G.

Realme X2: Price, Availability, & Launch Offers

The price for the 4GB RAM + 64GB storage variant of Realme X2 in India has been set at Rs 16,999. While the 6GB RAM + 128GB storage configuration of Realme X2 has been priced at Rs 18,999, the top-end 8GB RAM + 128GB model costs Rs 19,999. As far as the launch offers on Realme X2 are concerned, buyers can avail a flat Rs 1,500 discount on ICICI Bank credit card, MobiKwik benefits up to Rs 1,500, no-cost EMIs up to 6 months, and Jio benefits up to Rs 11,500.

The smartphone will be made available in Pearl Blue, Pearl Green, and Pearl White colour options. The smartphone will go on sale starting December 20 via Flipkart and Realme India online store. It will soon be made available via offline stores.

Realme X2: Specifications & Features

Realme X2 features a 6.4-inch full-HD+ (1080x2340 pixels) Super AMOLED display that has a 19.5:9 aspect ratio and 91.5 percent screen-to-body ratio. The device further has a Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection and supports features such as DC-like dimming and night mode for eye care. Also, there is an in-display fingerprint sensor.

The smartphone supports dual-SIM (Nano) technology and runs Android 9 Pie with ColorOS 6.1 on top. The device is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 730 SoC, paired with Adreno 618 GPU and up to 8GB of RAM.

On the imaging front, Realme X2 comes equipped with the quad rear camera setup that houses a 64-megapixel primary sensor with an f/1.8 lens and an 8-megapixel secondary sensor with an f/2.25 super-wide angle lens. The camera setup also has a 2-megapixel macro shooter with an f/2.4 aperture and a 2-megapixel depth sensor with an f/2.4 lens. On the front, there is a 32-megapixel selfie camera.

Realme X2 has 64GB and 128GB of UFS2.1 storage options which can be expanded via microSD card (up to 256GB). Connectivity options on the phone include 4G VoLTE, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth v5.0, GPS/ A-GPS, NFC, USB Type-C, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Sensors onboard include accelerometer, ambient light, gyroscope, magnetometer, and a proximity sensor.

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy A01 Goes Official: Specifications, Features Inside

It packs a 4,000mAh battery that supports 30W VOOC 4.0 Flash Charge technology. The smartphone measures 158.7x75.2x8.6mm and weigh 182 grams.
WAVERLY  The Waverly Chamber Music Series will host Belladonna for an in-person chamber music concert at 2 p.m. today in the St. Pauls Lutheran Church & Schools narthex.

There is no charge to attend; free-will donations will be accepted.

Belladonna, a baroque ensemble, was founded in St. Paul, Minn., in 1993 and has since performed in festivals and music series around the globe. The quartet features Barbara Weiss on harpsichord, Clea Galhano on recorder, Margaret Humphrey on baroque violin and Rebecca Humphrey on baroque cello.

The quartet has a reputation for its fantastical interpretation of baroque repertoire, informed by their collective experiences playing Latin, contemporary, rock, folk and experimental jazz. Their critically acclaimed album, Folias Festivas, was released on the Dorian label.

For more information, go to waverlychambermusic.org or email waverlychambermusicseries@gmail.com.
In response to last summers multiple tornadoes in the Czech Republic, the SPJST Foundation has awarded $40,000 to the town of Hrusky, one of the areas hardest hit by the storm.

Hrusky Mayor Jana Filipovicova indicated that the funds would be used to help restore cultural life in the community by making repairs to city facilities and play areas where public events such as the traditional Bartholomew Feast, Christmas and other social gatherings take place.

On the evening of June 24, 2021, a rare violent multiple-vortex tornado struck several villages in the Hodonin and Breclav districts of the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic, killing six people and injuring at least 200.

The tornado struck seven municipalities, with the worst damage in the villages of Hrusky, Moravska Nova Ves, Mikulcice and Luzice.

In response, the Czech Moravian Benevolence Fund was organized by the SPJST Foundation to provide rebuilding and humanitarian assistance in the areas hardest hit.

We set a goal of raising $25,000, says SPJST Foundation President Brian Vanicek, of Temple. Thanks to the generosity of many individuals, businesses, Texas Czech heritage and fraternal societies, that goal was thoroughly eclipsed.

Among the donations was $5,000 presented to Vanicek from Ray Rabroker and Slovaceks of West.

Vanicek added, It was not so long ago that it was the Czech Republic that showed compassion and support for the people of Texas when disaster struck.

In 2013, the Czech Republic Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided financial assistance to the city of West for rebuilding following the massive explosion of a fertilizer warehouse.

In 2017, the ministry approved the provision of humanitarian assistance to displaced families in La Grange in response to Hurricane Harvey.

Individuals or groups that would still like to contribute may contact the SPJST home office in Temple and request to speak to someone regarding the Czech Moravian Benevolence Fund.
03.02.2022 LISTEN

The National Labour Commission (NLC), has again invited government and the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) to a meeting over the ongoing strike by the teacher union.

It follows a High Court order urging the NLC and UTAG to settle their impasse out of court.

The meeting is slated for Monday, February 7, 2022, at 11: 00 am.

The National Labour Commission wishes to invite all parties to appear before it on Monday, February 2022, at 11:00AM. The invitation is pursuant to the directive by the High Court at the hearing of the matter by the court today, 3rd February 2022. All parties must endeavour to attend, the NLC said in a letter to the stakeholders involved.

The Labour Court 1 Division of the High Court, has asked the National Labour Commission to deal with issues it has with the striking university teachers out of court.

The presiding judge, Justice Frank Rockson Aboadwe, gave the parties up to Thursday, February 10, 2022, to report back on the progress of the out-of-court settlement.

NLC was in court seeking enforcement of its orders defied by public university teachers across the country.

NLC earlier directed UTAG to call off its strike, which began on January 10, 2022, but this directive was not adhered to.

The teachers had insisted that they will only return to lecture halls if their conditions of service concerns are addressed by the government.

The strike has brought academic work to a halt on public tertiary university campuses and threatens to dislodge the academic calendar.

When the case was called on Thursday, February 3, 2022, His Lordship, Rockson Aboadwe, called the parties from open court into his chambers for an in-camera discussion.

Lawyer for UTAG, Kwasi Keli-Delataa, told journalists after the in-camera session that the NLC will be allowed to move its motions if a consensus is not reached by Thursday.

The NLC was very certain that it was going to win the case. Meanwhile, universities risk closure if the strike continues further.

citinewsroom
Government intends to rebuild the shattered Appiate township as a modern Ghanaian village community, which is green and sustainable.

The Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, said under the instructions of President Nana Akufo-Addo the community should be well laid out and should be an example, for other developments in the future.

Mr. Jinapor made the remarks when he inaugurated a 7-member reconstruction committee on Thursday, 3 February 2022 in Accra.

The committee is tasked to facilitate the reconstruction of the Apiate committee.

After the January 20 explosion, government has undertaken some interventions to get the community back on its feet.

Among the interventions are investigations into the incident; the setting up of the Appiate Support Fund to mobilise funds for the reconstruction of the town, with the latest one being the inauguration of the Appiate Reconstruction Committee.

The committee is chaired by the deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in charge of forestry, Benito Owusu Bio.

It has its members drawn from the Ministry of Works and Housing, Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority and the Ghana Institute of Architects.

Speaking at a brief inauguration ceremony, the sector minister tasked the committee to ensure that the new community would become a model to be emulated by other settlements in the country.

He noted that, the President has tasked us to make sure that we remain on top of the situation and will respond to this horrific incidents very strongly and forcefully, and government continues to be on top of this particular matter.

Information we are receiving from the Regional Coordinating Council indicates that, by and large, some sense of normalcy is returning to the community. The important point to note when incidents like that happen is that they bring up all kinds of situations, but all these matters have to be handled. Today, we are here to deal with all important major aspects of this incident, which is the reconstruction of the community of Appiate. The President is very strong on the need to rebuild a community. The President has charged the ministry and allied organisations of the government to ensure that this happens, he said.

The Ministry of Works and Housing, which is the ministry responsible for public housing in Ghana, has a representative on this committee. It has nominated the Director of Housing at the Ministry of Works and Housing. They are members because the President has asked us to build this community as a model, a Ghanaian village community, which is green, and which is sustainable, which is well laid out, and which can be an example, for other developments in the future.

The Chief of Bepo Traditional Area, Nana Attah Kojo Bremibi, the Chief in whose jurisdiction the explosion at Appiate occurred, welcomed the remodelling of the town and called on government to immediately begin the rebuilding process.

The Chairman of the Committee, Benito Owusu-Bio indicated an inventory of all affected structures has been taken, hence work will soon begin.
BASKING RIDGE, N.J., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Physician's Weekly, a leading source of trusted medical information for healthcare providers at the point of care, is pleased to announce the appointment of Christy Tetterton as Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer, in a newly created role reporting to CEO, Greg Jackson. Tetterton has direct responsibility for the Editorial, Marketing and Customer Recruitment and Success departments.

Christy Tetterton has joined Physician's Weekly as Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer, a newly created role reporting to CEO, Greg Jackson. Tetterton has direct responsibility for the Editorial, Marketing and Customer Recruitment and Success departments.

Tetterton brings more than 20 years' experience as a strategic advisor to Physician's Weekly. She has profitably managed multi-channel, healthcare professional (HCP) and patient brands that generated over $40 million and she has created or taken more than 25 health-related products to market.

In this new position, Tetterton's primary objective is to maximize engagement across all of Physician's Weekly stakeholders: doctors, nurses, office managers, patients, pharmaceutical advertisers and media agencies. She will be responsible for the digital content strategy, new products, partnerships, as well as increasing thought leadership and partnership opportunities.

"Christy has an incredible breadth of healthcare media experience, specifically digital product innovation for both clinicians and patients," said Greg Jackson, CEO of Physician's Weekly. "She is a proven strategic thinker and solutions-oriented leader, and we are excited to have her expertise as we continue to pursue our aggressive growth plans."

"I am excited to work with Greg and his team at Physician's Weekly, a respected medical publisher that has such a unique value proposition for engaging with clinicians at the point of care," explained Tetterton. "I love helping businesses realize their growth potential and am eager to dive deeper into what our HCP and patient needs are across all of our channels to create useful products and drive engagement."

About Physician's Weekly ( www.physiciansweekly.com )

For nearly 40 years, Physician's Weekly LLC, has been a trusted source of medical news and education for healthcare professionals. The company's unique wallboard publicationthe cornerstone of its successis located in more than 33,000 top medical institutions and group practices across the US. Physician's Weekly offers in-depth interviews with respected experts in the industry who weigh in on landmark research and trending topics affecting the medical community, medical conference and meeting coverage, as well as accredited continuing education activities.

SOURCE Physician's Weekly
52F 52F Oneill (68763) Today Light rain. High 80F. Wind S at 20 to 37 mph. Tonight Clear sky. Low 52F. Wind WSW at 2 to 2 mph. Updated Sep 23, 2022 4:11 am Full Forecast
Hofit Golan put on a busty display in a plunging swimsuit as she frolicked on the beach with her boyfriend Alvaro Nunez.

The pair put on a PDA packed display as they celebrated their 1st anniversary in Mexico on Thursday.

The socialite, 36, and her entrepreneur beau, 28, enjoyed a lavish getaway to Tulum where they shared a kiss on the beach after sampling the resort's culinary delights.

Stunning: Hofit Golan, 36, put on a busty display in a plunging swimsuit as she cosied up with her boyfriend Alvaro Nunez celebrate their 1st anniversary in Mexico

Hofit showcased her ample assets in the daring one piece that plunged all the way to her navel.

She wore her blonde locks in a effortless beachy style with a hint of a wave and accessorised with a pair of aviator sunglasses.

The beauty posed for a photo as the couple enjoyed an array of food on the tropical beach.

Loved up: The socialite, 36, and her entrepreneur beau, 28, enjoyed a lavish getaway to Tulum where they shared a kiss on the beach after sampling the resorts culinary delights

Looking sensational in a series of sizzling snaps, Hofit then slipped in to a skimpy bikini as she reclined underneath a wooden arch.

Every inch the beach beauty, she showed off her incredible figure further as she lounged by the luxurious infinity pool.

Pulling her hair back in to a high ponytail she slipped in to a cut out number and relaxed at the resort.

Wow: Looking sensational in a series of sizzling snaps, Hofit then slipped in to a skimpy bikini as she reclined underneath a wooden arch

Tropical: Every inch the beach beauty, she showed off her incredible figure further as she lounged by the luxurious infinity pool

The founder of Super Luxury Group, Alvaro, flashed his abs in a pair of black swimming shorts as he laughed with his love.

Hofit and Alvaro enjoyed their anniversary celebrations as they dressed up to attend dinner at the various hotels.

The couple stayed villa at Aldea Canzul beach resort before they travelled onto Azulik and finished up their trip at the Papaya Playa Project.

Couple: The founder of Super Luxury Group, Alvaro, flashed his abs in a pair of black swimming shorts as he laughed with his love

Cute: Hofit and Alvaro enjoyed their anniversary celebrations as they dressed up to attend dinner at the various hotels

The fashionista has been travelling the world with her businessman beau by her side, and confirmed their romance when they made their red carpet debut in July.

Hofit, who comes from Israel, has been a regular on the showbiz party circuit for several years.

In 2015, the jetsetter spoke to Femail about her experiences of premieres and film festivals, saying it can be exhausting.

Jetsetters: The fashionista has been travelling the world with her businessman beau by her side

Going strong: They confirmed their romance when they made their red carpet debut in July

Busy: Hofit, who comes from Israel, has been a regular on the showbiz party circuit for several years

She explained: 'After Cannes and Fashion Week, I can't wear earrings and my feet won't fit into a single pair of heels.

'My body rejects glamour. I don't brush my hair for ten days and I go on a beauty strike.'

The Israeli socialite boasts many A-list friends, whom she spoke to MailOnline about in 2015.

Time to relax: She has said that her experiences of premieres and film festivals, saying it can be exhausting

She said: 'Kelly Brook was in Cannes with me and she's just a ball of laughs and fun. She's so easy going and low maintenance.

'Even Lindsay Lohan is such a different person to the way she is projected, she actually likes her privacy and time to herself and is a nice regular person.

'Then there's Michelle Rodriguez, who is like hanging out with your best friend from high school - she's smart, funny, down to earth and doesn't have an inch of ego.'
YEREVAN, 3 FEBRUARY, ARMENPESS. The servicemen of the Russian peacekeeping mission continue the work aimed at neutralization of the territories from explosive objects to ensure the safety of the residents of Nagorno-Karabakh. ARMENPRESS reports, citing the Telegram channel of peacekeepers of the Russian Federation, the de-miners of the peacekeeping forces neutralized 67 explosive objects found in the region of Martakert.



The discovered explosive objects were neutralized with the preservation of all necessary safety measures.
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ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi never left his three-story building outside the Syrian town of Atmeh

The rarely-seen leader of ISIS - who was killed early Thursday during a raid in Northern Syria by US special forces - was found moving around the Syrian province of Idlib around the time that ISIS fighters were trying to gain control of a prison late last month.

Iraqi intelligence, aided by informants in Syria's Islamic State detention camps, detected Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi on the move in the Syrian province of Idlib, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The province is about 280 mi east of the prison that ISIS fighters tried, and failed, to gain control of in a week-long battle late last month.

Western counterterrorism agents learned he was 'personally involved in the prison incident,' which may have led to his death when he detonated a suicide vest that killed him and 12 others, including members of his family, while he was surrounded by US forces.

The helicopters arrived low and fast out of the sky about an hour after midnight.

American intelligence officers had pinpointed the leader of ISIS to the top of a three-story house among the olive groves just outside Atmeh, a Syrian town near the border with Turkey.

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi was a stickler for security. He never left the building, running his terrorist group with messages sent through a lieutenant who lived on the floor below.

Two hours later al-Qurayshi - also known as Hajji Abdullah - was dead and 24 elite U.S. commandos were on their way home.

The first neighbors knew of the lethal operation was the sound of helicopters, rousing them from their sleep.

Minutes later they heard a voice through a bullhorn telling the building's occupants to give themselves up.

'Those who want to take part in jihad, come out,' the voice said, according to a neighbor who spoke to the New York Times.

'Everyone will be safe if you surrender. Those who remain will die.'

At about the same time, another neighbor heard banging on his own door.

American helicopters carrying 24 commandos arrived just after 1am. When they left two hours later ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi was dead

An aerial image released by the Pentagon shows the compound where ISIS emir al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi lived. He ran his terror network through a lieutenant living on the second floor

The top floor of the house was all but destroyed by the force of the suicide blast that killed al-Qurayshi. It was so powerful, said locals, that bodies were flung clear of the building

He opened it to find American commandos - early, unconfirmed reports suggested they were members of Delta Force - and an Arabic translator, who quickly told his family to leave their house and shelter behind another building.

In the age of social media, any secrecy was blown by now. Locals took to social media to report helicopter gunships and warplanes overhead. Flight tracking data showed drones monitoring the raid.

'The first moments were terrifying; no one knew what was happening,' Jamil el-Deddo, a resident of a nearby refugee camp, told the Associated Press.

'We were worried it could be Syrian aircraft, which brought back memories of barrel bombs that used to be dropped on us.'

Al-Qurayshi's hideaway was already surrounded.

American officials, in their account after the raid, said the commandos knew there was a civilian family living on the first floor potentially hindering an all-out assault.

But as they repeated their warnings through a loudspeaker one man, one woman and an unspecified number of children fled the building.

This 'tactical call-out' phase took about 45 minutes, according to one account.

President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and members of the president's national security team observe the operation from the White House Situation Room

The remains of a U.S. helicopter used in the raid on Thursday morning. Officials said it developed a mechanical problem and was later destroyed

The raid was carried out close to Atmeh, a Syrian town close to the Turkish border. To complicate matters, it is territory held by feuding extremist groups

Video shared on social media captured the messages.

'The area is surrounded by land and air,' said one message. 'The children are without blame. If there are children, they should come to me.'

Then they they took a more threatening turn with warnings that American forces were about to open fire.

Surrounded and outnumbered, with Black Hawks overhead, the ISIS leader on the third floor had only one way out.

'Unfortunately, ISIS once again revealed its barbarity,' said a senior administration official.

'In a final act of cowardice and disregard for human life, Hajji Abdullah detonated a blast - a significant blast - killing himself and several others, including his wife and children.'

Any hope of capturing al-Qurayshi alive and interrogating him for his secrets was gone.

The explosion ripped through the third floor of the building. It was so powerful, said the officials, that bodies were flung clear of the rubble.

The detonation was the signal for the commandos to move in. But as they approached the building they came under fire from the second floor of the building.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby confirmed that the ISIS lieutenant opened fire - 'actually one of his lieutenants and the lieutenant's wife firing back at our forces,' he said. They were killed.'

Officials said four children then left the building. A fifth had been killed on the second floor.

During the operation one of the helicopters suffered what Kirby described as a 'drive train issue.'

It was landed at another site where a rapid inspection suggested it could not be used during the rest of the operation, he added.

Troops on the ground reportedly rigged it for demolition and it was then destroyed by one of US aircraft firing on it.

Images from the site suggested it was a Nightstalker MH-60 Black Hawk, which in their basic form cost more than $5 million before being equipped for special forces use.

An aerial view of wreckage around the site after an operation carried out by US forces targeting a high ranking jihadist in northern Syria last night

Pictures from inside the building show blood spattering the walls after the raid

A doll lies among the debris inside the house. First responders told the Associated Press that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women

The location of the house, in an area controlled by a former Al Qaeda affiliate, brought further complications.

Before the team could leave one of the helicopters came under fire from hostile gunmen, said a senior administration official.

Two enemy combatants died in the ensuing firefight.

But from start to finish - or 'soup to nuts' as Kirby put it - the whole thing lasted two hours.

That included time for the commandos to use fingerprints to confirm they had got their man and to collect a tissue sample for a more precise DNA analysis.

And they would almost certainly have combed the wreckage of the second and third floors for phones, hard drives or any paper documents that might offer an insight into ISIS and its inner workings.

But unlike the 2011 raid to kill al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden they left the body of al-Qurayshi behind.

First responders told the Associated Press that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women.

And as the sun came up, photographs posted to social media showed garages some 100 yards away that had been strafed with what looked like 30mm cannon - leading analysts to suggest that US forces had acted to put escape vehicles out of action.

Defense Secretary Austin Lloyd Austin said the raid was designed to minimize civilian casualties.

'We know that al-Qurayshi and others at his compound directly caused the deaths of women and children last night,' he said.

'But, given the complexity of this mission, we will take a look at the possibility our actions may also have resulted in harm to innocent people.'
C$ unless otherwise stated TSX/NYSE/PSE: MFC SEHK: 945

TORONTO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Manulife has been notified of an unsolicited mini-tender offer made by Obatan LLC (Obatan) to purchase up to 500,000 Manulife common shares, or approximately 0.026% of the common shares outstanding, at a price of USD$14.40 per share.

Manulife is in no way associated with Obatan and does not recommend or endorse acceptance of this unsolicited offer.

Manulife cautions shareholders that the mini-tender offer has been made at a price below the current market price for Manulife shares. The offer represents a discount of 27.22% and 27.27%, respectively, below the closing prices of Manulife common shares on the TSX and NYSE on January 24, 2022, the last trading day before the mini-tender offer was commenced, and a discount of 31.40% and 31.46%, respectively, below the closing prices on the TSX and NYSE on February 2, 2022.

Mini-tender offers are designed to seek less than 5% of a company's outstanding shares, avoiding disclosure and procedural requirements applicable to most bids under Canadian and U.S. securities regulations. The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have expressed serious concerns about mini-tender offers, including the possibility that investors might tender to such offers without understanding the offer price relative to the actual market price of their securities.

The SEC states that "bidders make mini-tender offers at below-market prices, hoping that they will catch investors off guard if the investors do not compare the offer price to the current market price."

According to Obatan's offer documents, Manulife shareholders who have already tendered their shares can withdraw their shares at any time before 5:00 P.M. New York City Time on March 17, 2022 by following the procedures described in the offer documents.

Shareholders should carefully review the Obatan offer documents and current market price for Manulife shares, and consult their investment advisors regarding any offer they may receive and review with their advisors all options for their investment in Manulife shares.

Manulife has stock transfer agents providing shareholder services in Canada, the United States, Hong Kong and the Philippines. These local agents provide services directly to our registered shareholders and can provide information on share account management, direct deposit of dividends, dividend reinvestment and share purchase plans. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Manulife requests that a copy of this news release be included in any distribution of materials relating to Obatan's mini-tender offer for Manulife common shares.

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider that helps people make their decisions easier and lives better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we provide financial advice and insurance, operating as Manulife across Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States. Through Manulife Investment Management, the global brand for our global wealth and asset management segment, we serve individuals, institutions and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2020, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 118,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 30 million customers. As of September 30, 2021, we had CAD$1.4 trillion (US$1.1 trillion) in assets under management and administration, and in the previous 12 months we made CAD$31.6 billion in payments to our customers.

Our principal operations are in Asia and Canada, and the United States, where we have served customers for more than 155 years. We trade as 'MFC' on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges and under '945' in Hong Kong. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com





SOURCE Manulife Financial Corporation
Amazon Studios are keeping fans guessing with 23 new character posters - featuring only hands - unveiled Thursday for its $450M-budget prequel series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power premiering September 2.

One poster revealed a villainous, sword-wielding character wearing dark armor and a gauntlet whom many speculate is either Melkor, Sauron, or The Witch-king of Angmar.

The Rings of Power is set in the Second Age (spanning 3,441 years) of the world known as Middle-earth, so it's least likely Melkor aka Morgoth Bauglir who was defeated by Turin Turambar at the end of the First Age.

Who could it be? Amazon Studios are keeping fans guessing with 23 new character posters - featuring only hands - unveiled Thursday for its $450M-budget prequel series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power premiering September 2

Melkor's chief servant Sauron secretly forged the One Ring during the Second Age, but he did not wear gauntlets and he used a mace not a sword in Peter Jackson's 2001 film The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.

So that means the mysterious figure on the poster is most likely the Witch-king of Angmar, who led Sauron's regal men-turned-servants the Nazgul or Ringwraiths.

The Witch-king - who was once the King of Angmar in the north of Eriador - was famously killed by Rohan shieldmaiden Eowyn in Peter Jackson's 2003 film The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.

Other posters feature a female character holding a white flower, perhaps from the Trees of Valinor, since it had too many petals to be the Rohan flower, Simbelmyne.

Evil: One poster revealed a villainous, sword-wielding character wearing dark armor and a gauntlet whom many speculate is either Melkor, Sauron, or The Witch-king of Angmar

Takes place before The Hobbit and LOTR: The Rings of Power is set in the Second Age (spanning 3,441 years) of the world known as Middle-earth, so it's least likely Melkor aka Morgoth Bauglir who was defeated by Turin Turambar at the end of the First Age

Dark Lord! Melkor's chief servant Sauron secretly forged the One Ring during the Second Age, but he did not wear gauntlets and he used a mace not a sword in Peter Jackson's 2001 film The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Shrieking: So that means the mysterious figure on the poster is most likely the Witch-king of Angmar, who led Sauron's regal men-turned-servants the Nazgul or Ringwraiths

'I am no man!' The Witch-king - who was once the King of Angmar in the north of Eriador - was famously killed by Rohan shieldmaiden Eowyn in Peter Jackson's 2003 film The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

A peasant-looking man and woman symbolically hold an apple and berries on two other posters.

A red dress-clad woman holds an important-looking book in another poster.

There were two other peasant women, one holding acorns and the other clutching her stomach on other posters.

Golden paint stains the hands of a man wearing an outfit embellished with gold triangles and golden wrist cuffs.

Bloom: Other posters feature a female character holding a white flower, perhaps from the Trees of Valinor, since it had too many petals to be the Rohan flower, Simbelmyne

Fruity clues: A peasant-looking man and woman symbolically hold an apple and berries on two other posters

Scholar: A red dress-clad woman holds an important-looking book in another poster

Can you guess? There were two other peasant women, one holding acorns and the other clutching her stomach on other posters

Artist: Golden paint stains the hands of a man wearing an outfit embellished with gold triangles and golden wrist cuffs

Wisdom: Two male characters clutch scrolls, one noticeably more regal than the other

Two male characters clutch scrolls, one noticeably more regal than the other.

One poster reveals a silver-armored character clutching an elegant gold and silver sword.

There are male characters clutching rope and a single arrow.

Another character rests his hands on a large axe or hammer.

Valor: One poster reveals a silver-armored character clutching an elegant gold and silver sword

Tools of the trade: There are male characters clutching rope and a single arrow

Dwarf? Another character rests his hands on a large axe or hammer

The ensemble cast includes Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Robert Aramayo, Owain Arthur, Maxim Baldry, Nazanin Boniadi, Morfydd Clark, Ismael Cruz Cordova, Charles Edwards, Trystan Gravelle, Sir Lenny Henry, Ema Horvath, Markella Kavenagh, Joseph Mawle, Tyroe Muhafidin, Sophia Nomvete, Lloyd Owen, Megan Richards, Dylan Smith, Charlie Vickers, Leon Wadham, Benjamin Walker, Daniel Weyman, and Sara Zwangobani.

'The Rings of Power unites all the major stories of Middle-earth's Second Age,' showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay previously said in a statement.

'The forging of the rings, the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron, the epic tale of Numenor, and the Last Alliance of Elves and Men. Until now, audiences have only seen on-screen the story of the One Ring  but before there was one, there were many, and we're excited to share the epic story of them all.'

Overall, the fantasy epic's five-season production deal cost Amazon an eye-popping $1B, which makes history as the most expensive TV series ever created - according to THR.

Wrapped filming in August in New Zealand! Overall, the fantasy epic's five-season production deal cost Amazon an eye-popping $1B, which makes history as the most expensive TV series ever created

First look: The Rings of Power is adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien's book of origin tales called The Silmarillion, which was edited and published in 1977 posthumously by his son Christopher Tolkien

By contrast, HBO typically shelled out $100M per season of its hit show Game of Thrones.

Season one of The Rings of Power wrapped filming in New Zealand in August, and season two will reportedly begin pre-production in the UK in early 2022.

The Rings of Power is adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien's book of origin tales called The Silmarillion, which was edited and published in 1977 posthumously by his son Christopher Tolkien.
DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Medical Loupes Market, By Type (Flip-Up Loupes, Through-the-lens (TTL) Loupes, Clip-On Loupes, Headband Mounted), Magnification, Lens Type, By Distribution Channel, By Application, By End User, By Region, Competition, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Global Medical Loupes Market stood at USD356.23 million in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.97% during the forecast period, 2023-2027 to reach market value of USD530.01 million by 2027F.

The Global Medical Loupes Market is anticipated to grow due to high prevalence of chronic diseases and their treatment through minimally invasive surgeries for which medical loupes are required. The market growth can also be contributed to the growing prevalence of dental disorders worldwide and technological advancements.

Technological advancements like incorporating IT applications with the medical devices like augmented reality (AR), machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI) may also support the growth of the Global Medical Loupes Market in the next five years. Healthcare practitioners are employing augmented reality technologies in conjunction with medical loupes to assist end-users in surgical operations volume in order to achieve more precise and enhanced optical imaging.



Medical loupes are small magnifying lenses, designed to set one eye piece or head frame to provide magnified approach for the examination of surgical area. The medical equipment is simply used to provide a wider scope to the surgeon such that correct ergonomics can be maintained throughout the procedure. The equipment enhances visual acuity, along with treatment quality. The risks of mistakes and surgical mistakes are also minimized with the use of medical loupes.



The Global Medical Loupes Market is segmented by type, lens type, application, magnification, distribution channel, end-user, regional distribution, and competitive landscape. Based on application, the market is further differentiated into dental, surgical, and others. Surgical application of the medical loupes is anticipated to hold the largest revenue shares of the market and dominate the market segment in the upcoming five years on the grounds of high prevalence of diseases and their treatment through surgeries.

This is followed by Dental application. Young population along with geriatric population are highly susceptible to various dental disorders. Bone grafting, oral surgical flaps, dental tissue grafts, surgical periodontal therapies, endodontic treatment, caries, cavity treatment, etc., are all sorts of dental disorders that require medical loupes for the diagnosis, analysis, and treatment procedures, and thus aid the market growth in the future five years.



Some of the major players in the market include:

Carl Zeiss Meditec AG

Univet S.r.l

Heine Optotechnik GmbH & Co. KG

Envista Holdings Corporation (Orascoptic)

Halma Plc (Keeler Limited)

General Scientific Corporation (SurgiTel)

Integra Lifescience Holding Corporation

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc

MeridentOptergo (Optergo AB)

HOYA Corporation

VorOtek Pty Ltd

SheerVision Inc.

Graham Field Inc

LumaDent, Inc.

Admetec Solutions Ltd.

Neitz Instruments Co., Ltd.

Rose Micro Solutions LLC

Xenosys Co., Ltd.

Enova Illumination, Inc.

Dent-ALL Corp. (ErgonoptiX)

LW Scientific

i-Med Technology BV

Designs for Vision, Inc.

Den-Mat Holdings, LLC

North-Southern Electronics Limited

Report Scope:

Years considered for this report:

Historical Years: 2017-2020

Base Year: 2021

Estimated Year: 2022E

Forecast Period: 2023F-2027F

Medical Loupes Market, By Type

Flip-Up Loupes

Through-The-Lens (TTL) Loupes

Clip-On Loupes

Headband Mounted

Medical Loupes Market, By Magnification

Up to 3.0x

3.0x-5.0x

Above 5.0x

Medical Loupes Market, By Lens Type

Galilean

Prismatic

Medical Loupes Market, By Distribution Channel

Offline

Online

Medical Loupes Market, By Application

Surgical

Dental

Others

Medical Loupes Market, By End-User

Hospitals

Dental Clinics

Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Others

Medical Loupes Market, By Region

North America

United States

Canada

Mexico

Europe

Germany

France

United Kingdom

Italy

Spain

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

South Korea

Australia

South America

Brazil

Argentina

Colombia

Middle East & Africa

& South Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/1w5fti

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets
YEREVAN, 3 FEBRUARY, ARMENPESS. Turkey's supply of weapons to Ukraine is a provocation in the current difficult geopolitical situation, and Ankara can not but understand it, ARMENPRESS reports, Andrei Klimov, Deputy Chair of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs, said in an interview with RIA Novosti.

"In this situation, the supply of weapons to Ukraine is a provocation in itself. They can't but understand that in Ankara, but they do iy anyway, which is painful," Klimov said.

The senator stressed that Turkey's motives are understandable: on the one hand, Ankara is trying to solve its financial problems, remind about itself, promote its weapons.

"Besides, Turkey wants to be a part of this big game," he added.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine and Turkey have signed an agreement to expand production of Turkish Bayraktar drones in the country.
For background, Ward offers a short history of A.I., concentrating on how the people who own and deploy the algorithms measure their success. He also rebuts the Silicon Valley-esque assumption that A.I. will always do good. Recent examples from police usage of pretrial risk assessments and facial recognition should make us think twice, as Ward suggests, about trusting A.I. implicitly. Then again, those examples suffer from yet another human bias, namely the actor-observer bias, which leads most people to think they wont be targeted by such systems anytime soon.

So Ward is fighting an uphill battle, and although he tries to make it feel real, not all of his examples work. For instance, he uses the well-known story of Dr. Dao on United Airlines Flight 3411 to illustrate how people are psychologically hemmed in by A.I. The airline wanted extra seats for crew members of another flight, so it offered $400, then $800, for someone to change flights, but nobody took the offer. (Why not $1,200? $4,000?) They changed tack, using an opaque algorithm to choose Dr. Dao as the person who would lose his seat. When he refused to go, he was badly injured in his removal by the Chicago Aviation Police.

The author wants us to think this is proof of the Loop closing in on us, that the algorithm was critical in removing choices from us and seeming inevitable. But I dont buy this example as an algorithmic harm, even while Im interested in why it chose Dr. Dao. The damage to Dr. Dao came from a combination of the temporary suspension of normal social functioning that characterizes every airplane flight and good old-fashioned police power. Nothing different would have resulted, Id guess, if the person had been randomly chosen by the head flight attendant.
Pennsylvania Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson and Patrick Bradley, CEO of the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank, on Thursday expressed their growing concern over the decreasing number of volunteers who regularly donate blood.

The critical shortage of blood across Pennsylvania and the nation is still a major concern as COVID-19 has prevented some donors from giving blood and impacted the scheduling of blood drives, Johnson said. Blood is essential for surgeries, traumatic injuries, cancer treatment and chronic illnesses, which is why it is so important for individuals to go to their local blood bank or find a blood drive near them and donate. An adequate supply of blood is essential to ensure Pennsylvanians have safe, continuous access to the highest quality of health care. I encourage all Pennsylvanians to consider giving blood.

About 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the United States, according to the department. The most commonly requested blood type is type O, which can be transfused to patients with any blood type and is often the type used in emergencies when determining a patients blood type is not possible.

A significant factor contributing to blood shortages is a decrease in the amount of people entering the field of phlebotomy, Bradley said. There is a high demand for these positions as it requires a unique skillset. To help with this challenge, Pennsylvania blood centers provide the necessary education and training to begin a career in phlebotomy.

Officials are asking residents to donate blood by making an appointment with a local blood bank or visiting an upcoming blood drive. Anyone who is in good health, 16 or older and weighs a minimum of 120 pounds can donate blood. Individuals can donate regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status as long as they meet other eligibility requirements.

A number of Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank blood drives are scheduled in the coming months. Here is a look at the blood drives in Cumberland County:

Camp Hill Community, 100 N. 19th St.: 3 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 4

Southampton Township, 56 Cleversburg Road, Shippensburg: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Feb. 9

Ceddia Union Building, 408 Lancaster Drive, Shippensburg University: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 15

Slate Hill Mennonite Church, 1352 Slate Hill Road, Camp Hill: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 16

UPMC West Shore at Fredricksen Outpatient Center: 1 to 6 p.m. Feb. 17

West Shore YMCA, 410 Fallowfield Road, Camp Hill: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 19

Dennys, 5505 Carlisle Pike, Hampden Township: 1 to 7 p.m. Feb. 22

Capital City Mall, Lower Allen Township: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Feb. 25

Carlisle Alliance Church, 237 E. North St., Carlisle: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. March 2

New Cumberland First Church of God, 323 Reno Ave., New Cumberland: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 5

Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 22 Salt Road, Enola: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 5
Theres something special about a Southern California beach in winter  something restorative about bundling up in a heavy jacket to take in the waves and the often-showy January sunsets.

Nature seems to agree: Winter is a prime time to visit tide pools and spot migrating gray whales off Southern California. There are ways to get up close and personal with the Pacific during the chilliest months of the year in San Diego.

As the omicron variant of the coronavirus continues to spread in Southern California and beyond, exercise caution (and wear a mask) if you choose to travel. Here are some tips for staying safe.

Spot sea stars, crabs and more at Cabrillo National Monument

The tide pools at Cabrillo  considered one of the states best-protected rocky intertidal areas  are a haven for animals, algae, sea grass and more. When the tide pulls away from the coast, seawater and marine animals get left behind in the tide pools, where they can easily be seen by park visitors.

What kind of animals might you spy? Barnacles, crabs, mussels and anemones, to name a few. The low zone of the pools  which visitors are able to see only during the lowest tides  is home to sea stars, fish, spiny lobsters and even octopuses.

With the opportunity to glimpse some of these seaside stunners comes the responsibility to help protect the marine life native to Cabrillo.

Visitors are strictly prohibited from collecting any natural items, including living or dead animals, shells and rocks, and absolutely no organisms attached to a surface should be removed  force can harm animals such as urchins and sea stars. The Marine Mammal Protection Act also forbids approaching or engaging with any marine mammals.

Fall and winter are the perfect time to visit, when park hours best overlap with low tide. Generally, its best to visit the tide pools within a four-hour window  two hours before low tide and two hours after. The parks tide pool area closes at 4:30 p.m. each day. If possible, Id suggest staying late into the afternoon. The sight of the tide pools at golden hour is spectacular.

Entrance for those arriving on foot or on bicycle costs $10. If youll be driving to the tide pools, expect to pay $20 for your vehicle (this price covers the entry fee for all passengers).

Kayak by the La Jolla Sea Caves

Little Sister. Shopping Cart. Sea Surprize.

If you have no idea what Im talking about, you probably havent visited this network of seven sun-dappled caves along the San Diego County coast.

Almost all of the caves are inaccessible by land, but you may be able to visit them on a kayak tour of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park.

Outlets such as La Jolla Kayak and La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks offer guided tours, where kayakers have the chance to see pelicans, sea lions and many other types of marine animals while learning about the ecological reserve.

Entrance to the sea caves is not guaranteed and depends on safety conditions. Rentals start around $44, though pricing varies based on date.

Learn from oceanographers at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps

For those who would prefer to keep their feet firmly on land, the Birch Aquarium  part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego  offers an excellent alternative to time spent on the water.

Visitors to the aquarium have the chance to learn about discoveries made by Scripps Oceanography scientists while getting an up-close look at different marine habitats and the animals that call them home. The two-story giant kelp forest mirrors many of the kelp forests divers encounter in the waters off San Diego: In this exhibit, visitors can spot leopard sharks, moray eels and more.

Sea dragons and sea horses are the stars of the aquariums new permanent exhibition. The aquariums experts have successfully bred weedy sea dragons as part of this initiative, a feat achieved by only a few aquariums around the globe.

Coming soon in summer 2022: an exhibition dedicated to little blue penguins and their conservation.

Reservations must be purchased in advance online. Tickets cost $24.95 for adults, $22.95 for seniors and $19.95 for children ages 3 to 17.

Glimpse migrating whales

Scores of gray whales journey from Alaska to Baja California each year, making one of the longest annual migrations of any mammal. Many pass by San Diegos 70 miles of coastline, making the citys cliffs, beaches and bluffs ideal for whale watching from December through April.

According to San Diego tourism officials, prime whale-watching spots include:

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Cabrillo National Monument

Torrey Pines State Reserve

Those hoping to dive even deeper into gray whale migration might consider driving 65 miles from San Diego to Dana Point, which in 2021 was named the first Whale Heritage Site in the U.S.

Another reason to stop by Dana Point on your way to or from San Diego? A bronze statue of surf icon Joyce Hoffman will be added to Watermans Plaza on Jan. 27. Starting in late January, youll be able to spot Hoffman  and hopefully some whales  in the coastal city.
Dr Malika Mitchell-Stewart is suing JPMorgan Chase Bank after she felt like she was 'treated like a criminal by staff (KTRK / Screenshot)

A doctor in Houston, Texas is suing JPMorgan Chase Bank after claiming that she was discriminated against and denied service because of her skin colour.

Dr Malika Mitchell-Stewart told KTRK that she had recently finished her residency and that she was trying to open an account and deposit a $16,000 check she had received as a signing bonus from her new job at Valley Oaks Medical Group.

But in a lawsuit, she claims that the staff at Chases First Colony Bank asked odd questions about the authenticity of the check and about her work as a medical professional.

As soon as Dr Mitchell-Stewart showed employees at First Colony Branch her Check, they immediately treated her like a criminal, the legal filing states.

Dr Mitchell-Stewart said the bank staff rejected her and that they claimed that the check was fraudulent.

It was an unfortunate situation. They took my special moment away. I felt like a criminal. Ive never done anything wrong, Dr Mitchell-Stewart said. In order to get Texas medical license or a medical license at all, you have to have a clean record. You have to go to school for so many years, and they just didnt care. They didnt respect that. They didnt respect my credentials.

Dr Mitchell-Stewart showed proof of identification. She showed proof that she was a doctor by presenting a business card. She even called employees from her medical group to confirm who she was, her lawyer, Justin Moore, told KTRK.

We take this matter very seriously, and are investigating the situation, Chase told the outlet. We have reached out to Dr Mitchell-Stewart to better understand what happened and apologize for her experience.
CEDAR FALLS  Celebrate Family History Through Research is coming to Cedar Falls later this month.

The event, co-hosted by the Cedar Falls Public Library and Cedar Falls Human Rights Commission, will be at 6 p.m. Feb. 17 in the librarys meeting room.

Its taking place during National Black History Month, otherwise known as African American Heritage Month. An emphasis will be placed on learning about the challenges faced by African Americans when trying to uncover their roots, and how to help overcome them.

One of those challenges is the fact African Americans werent listed in the United States Census until the 1870s.

HRC Vice Chair Sonja Bock, a sociology professor at Kirkwood Community College, will lead up to 24 participants in a fun introduction to genealogy research through various techniques and digital programs.

However, a person shouldnt expect to walk away with a family tree all filled out.

Well get you started, but then its up to you where you want to take it, she said.

She has more than 20 years of experience in genealogical research. One of her first personal discoveries was finding her biological birth parents as someone who was adopted.

But I didnt have all these great tools that you have today, she quipped. I had to do it the old-fashioned way.

One of her goals with the seminar is to make people aware of the free resources the library has to offer. Programs like 23andMe and Ancestry.com will be utilized during the evening session.

It can be overwhelming at times with the number of sites and online tools, she said. Im here to help make it more streamlined for them, and to make it as simple as possible. While technology is a good thing, it has advanced and has gotten more complex.

WATCH NOW: Jared Smith named new Waterloo Schools' superintendent The leader of South Tama County Schools and Waterloo West High graduate was one of four finalists who visited the district Thursday for a day of interviews.

The technology will lean into a trifecta of information resources for family research  oral history, physical documents and records, and DNA.

One example of a more profound finding for Bock, which shell explain more in detail at the event, revolved around her great-grandfather who wasnt who he said he was in stories he told the family.

He totally recreated himself, said Bock, who used various clues, like a gold earring he wore, to slowly unravel the truth about him.

Youre not always who you thought you were, she said. You might start out by thinking you are 100% German, and then all of a sudden after doing your research, you find out youre not.

Anyone is welcome to participate, but registration is required for the free event through the librarys website, cedarfallslibrary.org.

A limited number of laptops will be available, so participants are encouraged to bring their own. Snacks will be provided, and before the event kicks off at 6 p.m., a social hour takes place at 5:30 p.m.

WATCH NOW: Jared Smith named new Waterloo Schools' superintendent The leader of South Tama County Schools and Waterloo West High graduate was one of four finalists who visited the district Thursday for a day of interviews.
HUMMELSTOWN, Pa. -- The Pennsylvania Department of Health is raising the alarm to bring awareness to a growing issue at blood banks.

The Central Pennsylvania Blood bank said there is a decreasing number of volunteers regularly donating blood, which has led to a shortage in blood supplies.

The critical shortage of blood across Pennsylvania and the nation is still a major concern as COVID-19 has prevented some donors from giving blood and impacted the scheduling of blood drives, Pennsylvania Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson said. Blood is essential for surgeries, traumatic injuries, cancer treatment and chronic illnesses, which is why it is so important for individuals to go to their local blood bank or find a blood drive near them and donate. An adequate supply of blood is essential to ensure Pennsylvanians have safe, continuous access to the highest quality of health care. I encourage all Pennsylvanians to consider giving blood.

Many patients who have major surgeries will need a blood transfusion to replace blood lost during their procedure. Blood transfusions are also used for patients who have serious injuries from car crashes or natural disasters, and people with illnesses that cause anemia, like leukemia or kidney disease, will often receive blood transfusions, the department said.
Schools around New Zealand are facing increases in home schooling applications since the announcement of mask mandates for children in Year 4 and above.

Rural schools have seen increases in applications ranging from three per cent 20 per cent, says Rural Schools Leadership Association president Andrew King.

Last year the government announced children in Years 4 to 13, as well as staff, would be required to wear a mask indoors if the country went to the red traffic light setting.

With New Zealand now at the red setting, children and teachers are starting the school year while adapting to the new rules.

What we're seeing, and its happening across the country, is a reaction from those who don't want to send their kids to school because of the mask mandates, says Andrew, who is also the principal at Oropi School.

They're all doing home schooling applications, which is not actually the solution.

If they do a home schooling application, you've got six to eight weeks before that gets approved.

Ministry of Education operations and integration leader Sean Teddy says since September 2021, there has been a significant increase in enquiries from parents about home education.

We are currently assessing a large number of home education applications and decisions are taking longer than usual, on average more than six weeks, says Sean.

While waiting for their application to be assessed, legally all children aged over six years must be enrolled at and attending school, children can enrol at age five and then they must attend.

Home education is not a short-term solution. To home educate well, parents need to thoroughly research and plan their approach.

Andrew says solutions for parents concerned about the mask mandates are at home learning, mask exemptions, providing they meet the ministrys criteria, or simply attending school.

Andrew wants to reassure parents that school staff wont be disciplining students around mask wearing simply reminding them.

I don't want the school day to be wasted enforcing it, he says.

Kids are going to need breaks from wearing masks. That's where we'll send them outside, to play a game or do some learning outside of the classroom.

The principals advice to teachers is: Tell your kids the guidelines, whats expected of them and remind them every now and then, but please dont make a make a big deal of it.

Advice from the ministry is we are not enforcers, he says. We do our best to encourage and support people to fulfil the mandate.

The safety and wellbeing of students and staff is the top priority for every school or kura, who will have their own plan that best meets the needs of their school community at all colour settings, says Sean.

Western Bay of Plenty Principal's Association president Suzanne Billington says there are a lot of principals talking about high numbers of home education applications on the closed Facebook page for New Zealand principals.

It has quite an impact on smaller schools, she says. Because if there are eight kids out of a small roll it can mean quite a bit.

Even if you're only talking three or four kids per school, theres more than 2000 schools [in New Zealand], so that's a lot of kids, says Andrew.

Ministry of Education data from January 11, shows a steady incline in nationwide home education applications from August last year. The applications reached their peak in November 2021 at around 900 applications.

National data for November 2020 shows there were around 200 applications and in November 2019 there were around 150 applications.

In 2021 there were 388 home education applications submitted for the Bay of Plenty out of 3811 nationwide. There are 135 applications for the Bay of Plenty still pending, with November applications currently being processed.

Comparatively there were around 200 home education applications in the Bay of Plenty in 2020 and around 150 in 2019.

Advice from the ministry is the 2021 data is live and subject to change. Data for 2022 applications is not yet available.
The man accused of murdering 19-year-old Arnima Hayat and allegedly placing her body in a bath of hydrochloric acid was an indifferent student at school and a 'skinny kid', classmates remember.

Meraj Zafar, 20, has been charged with the Arnima's murder after her body was found in a bathtub at the apartment they had shared briefly in North Parramatta, in Sydney's west, on Sunday.

Daily Mail Australia can reveal Zafar is the son of an Pakistani-born taxi driver who attended Malek Fahd Islamic School in the working-class western Sydney suburb of Greenacre.

He then moved to Belmore Boys High School in 2018, where he repeated Year 11 and never finished his HSC year at the school.

A classmate who asked to be identified as Johnny said that Meraj's 'pumped-up' body made him almost unrecognisable from the once slight teenager.

It comes as police allege Zafar told them he thought he 'looked good' in CCTV footage of him buying hydrochloric acid.

According to a statement of police facts, Zafar allegedly purchased a 20-litre bottle of the acid at Bunnings Northmead on Sunday morning before returning to purchase four more.

Johnny said Meraj was a 'skinny kid' and that photos of him showing well-developed muscles (above) made him 'almost unrecogniseable'

In contrast with Meraj Zafar's experience as a migrant kid, Arnima Hayat loved school, excelled at study and blitzed her HSC with a score of more than 95 which qualified her to study medicine

Arnima Hayat's traumatised family, uncle Abu Saleh (left), father Abu Hayat and mother Mahafuzah (right) said their daughter loved studying and had become a real 'Aussie girl' since migrating aged nine

An average bath will hold 100 litres of liquid and Arnima Hayat's parents have told Daily Mail Australia their daughter was found immersed in liquid up to the bath's brim, with only one foot undestroyed by the chemical.

At Belmore Boys High School, Meraj in class 'just wasn't interested' in study.

When other students wanted to study or listen in class, he was making jokes about the teachers.

'From the photos I've seen of him now, his body does not look anything like it did four years ago,' Johnny said

'He started hanging out with the girls from Wiley Park and Canterbury (girls high schools).'

Zafar's father came from the Pakistani city of Sialkot and emigrated to Australia, with Meraj born in Lakemba in 2001.

The family moved to Greenacre and after leaving school, Meraj started working in the building industry.

About a year ago, Meraj contacted a high-profile podcaster and begged to be a guest on the show.

Meraj Zafar attended the Islamic school Malek Fahd (above) in Sydney but later moved on to Belmore Boys High School

Meraj Zafar (above, with Arnima Hayat) did not enjoy studying, unlike Arnima who had done two years of medicine and dreamt of becoming surgeon

Meraj attended Belmore Boys High School where clasmates remember a 'skinny kid' who was uninterested in studying and more keen to hang out with girls from neighbouring schools

He sent the prominent influencer messages on Instagram, insisting 'bro I'm serious' about getting on the podcast  which cannot be named for legal reasons.

'I got a lot to talk about,' Zafar claimed. 'I got a lot of questions.'

After a lengthy and unsuccessful attempt to convince the host he deserved a starring role, he asks the influencer: 'Do you still train?'

When the podcaster replies that he had started working out recently, Zafar continued to push his case: 'That's one of the things we can talk about on the podcast.'

The pair also exchanged pictures of women they found attractive. The influencer told Daily Mail Australia Zafar was never invited to speak on the popular show.

Around the same time Zafar met Arnima Hayat, who was studying medicine with dreams of becoming a surgeon.

Classmates are astonished at the physique Meraj Zafar presents in recent photographs of himself with Arnima Hayat (above, the couple together), given his puny frame as a schoolboy

Arnima Hayat lived in the ground floor flat for three months (above) before she died with her remains being alleegdly immerse in hydrochloric acid in the bathroom

Ms Hayat, whose migrant story is in stark contract with that of Zafar, had never previously had a boyfriend.

Arriving in Australia aged nine years old from Bangladesh, Arnima excelled at school, and at Tempe Girls High School achieved an HSC score of more than 97 in 2019.

As her parents Abu Hayat and Mahafuzer Akter told Daily Mail Australia exclusively, Arnima was a studious but fun-loving 'Aussie girl' who weekly took her parents out for sushi and pies until she ceased contact with them six months ago.

Mahafuzer said her daughter 'loved movies, music, she liked driving and shopping and buying pretty clothes.'

'She loved make-up and she liked taking photos and selfies and videos,' she said.

Mr Hayat said his daughter quickly assimilated into Australia life after from Bangladesh and became an 'excellent' English speaker and wanted to eat 'mostly western food'.

Police were forced to wear Hazmat suits before entering the bathroom(above) of the flat where Arnima's remains were alleegdly immersed ina bath of acid

Mahafuza and Abu emigrated to Australia for a better life when Arnima was nine, and she was set for a bright future after excelling at school and studying to become a surgeon

Arnima was a loving and attentive daughter to her motheer Mahafuza (above, left) and big sister, but after meeting Meraj Zafar she withdrew and lost contact with her family

With plenty of friends from school, her job at Kmart in Marrickville and the University of Western Sydney, she had a happy life before she started going out with Meraj.

Arnima's parents said she went from being a normal, sociable teenager who regularly told her family how much she loved them to being withdrawn.

Mr Hayat had two confrontations with Meraj Zafar, and from October last year - when Zafar and Arnima moved in together into the North Parramatta flat where her body was found last week - the family did not even receive phone calls from her.

Two weeks before her death, the clearly 'upset' 19-year-old made a phone call to a maternal uncle who lives in New York.

Police allege Zafar murdered Ms Hayat, a medical student, sometime between 12-5pm last Sunday and told his parents the pair had a 'very bad fight'.

Zafar's mother is believed to have called Triple-0 and Armina Hayat's body was found naked and face down, decomposing in a bathtub of acid around 4.30pm on Sunday inside the ground floor Pennant Hills Rd flat.

Meraj Zafar, who on Tuesday did not apply for bail which was formally refused, will face Parramatta Local Court via video link on April 5.
We serve a God who wastes nothing. Every bit of our lives stories are His, whether as unbelievers or believers. When we place our faith in Jesus, He assures us He works all things together for His glory and our good (Romans 8:28). And remember, God gains the glory from unbelievers too (think of Pharaoh). The Bible includes many historical narratives which show Gods providence via a persons story, and Genesis is replete with them. Joseph's story is one.

Bible readers are introduced to Joseph in Genesis 30:22-24, and the rest of his story unfolds throughout Genesis 37, 39 up to Exodus 1:7.

Who Is Joseph and What Happens in His Story?

Genesis 30:22-24 records Josephs birth to Jacobs favored wife, Rachel. Joseph is Jacobs eleventh son, and his name means, he will add or may he add (Genesis 30:24).

The narrative picks up again in Genesis 37, when Joseph was seventeen years old, living in Canaan with his fathers family. Joseph helped his brothers with his fathers flock and Scripture reports in Genesis 37:2 that Joseph brought a bad report of them to his father.

Jacob did not hide his favoritism toward Joseph (Genesis 37:3), and he made him a tunic of many colors. His brothers (all of them) saw thisthat their father loved Joseph more than theyand they hated him and could not speak peaceably to him (Genesis 37:4).

In the culture of their day, when a father bestowed a garment such as the tunic Jacob gave Joseph, it marked him as the one whom his father chose as the future leader of the family. Normally this would be the firstborn son, and Jacobs other sons (especially Reuben, the firstborn) knew that custom.

His brothers became enraged toward him after Joseph told them about a dream he had where his sheaf stood up and their sheaves stood around his and bowed to it. Joseph included his father when he shared his second dream about the sun, moon, and the eleven stars bowing down to him (about which he also told his brothers). Jacob rebuked him and asked, Shall your mother and I and your brothers indeed come to bow down to the earth before you? (Genesis 37:10). This dream revelation piqued his brothers envy, but Jacob, however, pondered the meaning of Josephs dreams.

Later, when Jacob sent Joseph to check on his brothers as they tended the flock, they saw him from afar and conspired to kill him and to throw him into a pit, pinning the blame on a wild beast (Genesis 37:18). Reubenthe firstborncame to Josephs rescue and devised a different plan to stay Josephs life and return him to Jacob. Whether Reuben went away from his brothers or not, we do not know, but the other brothers, under the direction of Judah, sold Joseph, whom they had stripped of his many-colored tunic, to a band of Ishmaelites who traveled to Egypt. The price? Twenty shekels of silver, which was the average cost for a slave at that time.

When Reuben returned and saw Joseph missing, he tore his clothes, lamented, and went along with his brothers as they killed a goat kid, dipped Josephs tunic in it and presented it to their father with the fabrication he had been devoured by a wild beast.

Josephs Life in Egypt

The Ishmaelites (Midianites) sold Joseph to Potiphar, one of Pharaohs officers and captain of the guard (Genesis 37:36). And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a successful man, (Genesis 39:2) and the Lord blessed Potiphars house for Josephs sake (Genesis 39:5a). Potiphar trusted Joseph with everything under his purview, until Potiphars wife, who noticed the handsome young man, repeatedly entreated him to lie with her (Genesis 39:7). On a day when Joseph and Potiphars wife were the only two in the house, she once again beseeched him to lie with her as she grabbed his garment. Joseph refused and fled, leaving his garment in the clutches of Potiphars wife. She called out and claimed that Joseph had acted aggressively toward her, wherein an angry Potiphar had Joseph thrown into prison.

Once again, God was with Joseph and showed him mercy (Genesis 39:21) and He gave Joseph favor in the sight of the prison keeper, who placed Joseph in authority over the other prisoners. Two of the Pharaohs servers (the chief butler and chief baker) offended their lord, and were also placed in the prison. When they each had perplexing dreams, Joseph, who gave all credit to the Lord, interpreted them and they came to pass as he said they would.

Fast forward two years. The chief butler had been returned to his position and, after remembering Joseph, he told Pharaoh about him after Pharaoh had a troubling dream. Pharaoh called Joseph to him and, after explaining that God would give Pharaoh an answer, Joseph interpreted the dreams.

Pharaoh was so delighted with Josephs wisdom that he gave him authority as second only to the king (himself). Through Josephs wise handling of resources during seven years of plenty followed by seven years of drought, he saved many peoples, including his father, brothers, and kin. Joseph revealed himself to his brothers and had them bring his father and the rest of the family to reside in Goshen. For seventeen years, Jacob lived in Egypt and grew and multiplied exceedingly (Genesis 47:27).

Joseph lived 110 years, and at his death said to his brethren, God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land to the land which He swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.





Photo credit: Getty Images/kieferpix

Seven Lessons from Joseph's Time in Egypt

Joseph may seem innocent and naive to many who read his life story in Genesis, but he had wisdom beyond his years. Through his story, the Scriptures give us many lessons by which to live, including but not limited to the seven listed below.

1. Our Lives Must Include Speaking about God and Living the Gospel

(Genesis 39:2-3, 21-22, Colossians 3:17)

When Joseph faced trials and opportunities while in Egypt, he spoke about honoring God before men, and he lived an exemplary life despite his position as a slave and as a servant under a pagan ruler. To a sin-seeking temptress, Joseph said, How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? (Genesis 39:9b), and he fled. His words and actions always revealed his faithfulness to the Lord.

For us, whatever we do, in every part of our walk with the Lord, we are to present Jesus to a lost and dying world not only by what we say, but also by what we do.

2. God Never Leaves Us or Forsakes Us

(Genesis 39:2, 21; Deuteronomy 31:8)

God did not leave Joseph alone when he was displaced to Egypt. Not only is that truth shown throughout the narrative, but its also revealed in Genesis 39:2a, The Lord was with Joseph and verse 21a, But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him mercy. Joseph recognized that and, as we saw in point one, he lived it.

For us to know God will never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8) is a lesson in Gods faithfulness. As believers, He does not leave us to face anything without Him. Thats a sure hope and a promise.

3. Gods Providence Is Always Active

(Genesis 50:19-21; Romans 8:28)

When Jacob died and Josephs brothers feared he would exact vengeance upon them, Joseph told them, Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. Now therefore do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones. And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them. Joseph knew it was God Who directed the events of his life, despite what his brothers intended.

For us as believers, we need not fear. God is sovereign, and He, as Scripture promises, works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

4. Obedience Does Not Mean an Easy Life

(Genesis 37;12-36; Matthew 10:35)

Joseph obeyed his father by going to his brothers as they watched over the flocks. And what happened? The Bible does not give us details about Josephs early behavior toward his brothers, but we do know his brothers threw him into a pit and sold him off to a band of Ishmaelites. And we know the rest of the story about his time in Egypt both as a slave and a prisoner. Life, at the beginning of his time in Egypt, was not easy for young Joseph, yet he kept his integrity.

For us as believers, we know becoming a Christian does not mean a life of ease. At most, a Christian may give his earthly life in service to Christ. At least, we may face contempt from others who repudiate our lifestyle of obedience and sacrifice. But oh, the joy which fills us as we follow Jesus (James 1:2)!

5. Run from Temptation

(Genesis 39:12; 1 Corinthians 10:13, James 4:7)

When Potiphars wife made her aggressive move to have Joseph lie with her, he ran! What Joseph did physically was based on an action already stored in his heart. He recognized the sin he faced and did the best thing. He got as far away from the tempter (and temptation) as possible.

We believers can rest assured that God always gives us a way out of every temptation. We can flee from sin and lean into Jesus.

6. Give God All the Glory

(Genesis 40:8, 41:16; 1 Corinthians 10:31)

Joseph displayed immediate reverence for God when questioned about dream interpretation. He said to the chief baker and steward, Do not interpretations belong to God? (Genesis 40:8) and to the Pharaoh he said, It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace (Genesis 41:16).

When we believers gain notoriety for a particular act, service, or accomplishment, its always best to give glory to the One who made it possible. Hide behind the cross and let people see Jesus, not you.

7. Honor the Authorities God Places over You

(Genesis 41:33; Genesis 50:20; Titus 3:1)

After Joseph gave Gods message to Pharaoh regarding his dreams, Joseph suggested to Pharaoh, Now therefore let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt (Genesis 40:33), and Pharaoh replied, Since God has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are. You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command. Only as regards the throne will I be greater than you (Genesis 40:39-40). Joseph, while retaining his loyalty to the Lord, showed deference to Pharaoh.

As believers, we place God first in our lives, yet we show ourselves as His by how we treat others. We are to love them as we love ourselves, and to submit to the authorities the Lord has placed over us, yet always placing Gods law above mans.

Every book in the Bible is full of lessons for us. As you read through the account of Joseph's life in Genesis, think about why certain passages are in it and ask God what He wants you to know about Him through it. Seek lessons; they are surely there.

Related articles

3 Empowering Reminders from Joseph about Persevering

Joseph, Potiphar's Wife, and the Dangers of Sexual Sin

Joseph's Family Fiasco: Trusting God in a Painful Process



Photo credit: Unsplash/Kyle Cottrell

Lisa Loraine Baker is the award-winning author of Someplace to Be Somebody (End Game Press, February 2022). Lisa writes fiction and nonfiction and is currently co-writing a Christian living book with her husband, and a suspense novel.

Lisa is a member of Word Weavers, Intl (as a critique partner and mentor), AWSA, ACFW, Serious Writer Group, and BRRC.

Lisa and her husband, Stephen, inhabit their home as the Newlyweds of Minerva with crazy cat, Lewis.
Albert Tercero

En espanol

Its right there on most every store receipt, pay stub and monthly mortgage statement: a notice of how much of your money went toward taxes. Americas complex, multitiered tax system means that handing over money to the government is perpetually in your face and on your mind, and never more so than as Tax Day approaches each spring. 

But do taxes have an outsize grip on our imaginations? After all, can you really do much about them? (Spoiler: In most cases, no  as Benjamin Franklin hinted 200-plus years ago.) I think people either obsess about taxes or they ignore them completely, says Sallie Mullins Thompson, a CPA who works in the New York City area. 

Thoughtful tax planning and a careful accounting of what you owe every year are crucial parts of overall money management. But beyond that, perhaps you should simply not worry quite so much about taxes. As these 10 truths about taxes illustrate, the right way to think about them comes down to keeping them in perspective. 

1. You may fret about taxes more than you should  

Your ability to control your tax bill is more limited than you may think. Take income taxes: You may earn money in various ways  perhaps from a job, a side gig or investments  but the taxes you pay on each are defined by hard-and-fast rules.

Everyone is afraid of missing a silver bullet that will reduce their taxes. For most people, those dont exist, says Tim Steffen, director of tax planning at the financial services company Baird. If youre a middle-class homeowner without squads of lawyers, you pay many types of taxes  sales, income, property, sin and beyond. You have the most leeway over your property tax bill. The rest are mostly out of your control.

2.  and, no, the IRS isnt out to get you.

The agency is beset by problems: delays in processing returns, not enough staff to answer the phone and insufficient funding to conduct audits. That last part means youre less likely than ever to face an audit; fewer than half a percent of returns were audited in 2020.

And any challenge will probably come in the form of a letter, not by IRS agents knocking at your door in suits and sunglasses. People forget that when the IRS talks about audits, thats a very broad term, observes Mark Luscombe, federal principal analyst for Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting. 

Often the IRS simply needs more documentation. (Send it.) If you get a notice from the IRS claiming you made a mistake on your return, you can challenge it. Any letter will have instructions on handling disputes. Sometimes the IRS may even find an error that goes in your favor and delivers a bigger refund than you expected.

3. If you earn your money the old-fashioned way  with a salary  saving is your best tax-cutting option  

For all those years when youre collecting a paycheck, you have just a few levers you can pull to meaningfully reduce your tax bill. The best of them are 401(k)s, 403(b)s and IRAs  accounts that let you set aside large chunks of earnings for the future without having to pay taxes on them first, or as they grow in value. Yes, youll have to pay taxes on them someday, but often at a lower rate than youre paying now. In 2022 you can contribute up to $27,000 to a 401(k) or 403(b) if youre 50 or older; up to $7,000 to an IRA; or both.  

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is another useful tax-planning tool. It offers triple tax benefits: You dont have to pay taxes on the money you put in, the account grows tax-free, and withdrawals are tax-free, too, as long as you use the money for qualified medical expenses. You can fund an HSA only if you have a high-deductible health insurance plan, which is increasingly common; 58 percent of people offered health insurance at work have access to a high-deductible plan, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. In 2022 you can contribute up to $3,650 to an HSA if you have an individual health plan; up to $7,300 if you have a family plan  plus another $1,000 if youre 55 or older.  

4.  but making financial moves solely to lower your tax bill can lead you to make costly mistakes.  

A lot of financial professionals  both legitimate and less so  will latch on to your desire to avoid taxes, plus your wishful thinking, to sell you expensive and complicated products that promise to protect your money from the IRS. Watch out! Picking financial products for tax purposes does you no good if the investment is a dud. When the pitch for an investment opportunity leads with the tax savings, its usually a bad idea, says Scott Bishop, executive director of wealth solutions at Avidian in Houston. Invest in something only if you would do so without the tax incentive. 

5. The tax system is complex, and thats by design. 

The tax code has two purposes: to provide the government with the money it needs to operate and to create incentives for taxpayers to do certain things lawmakers would like them to do, such as save for retirement, pursue an education, give to charity or even buy an electric car. 

Whether taxes really change behavior, however, is open to debate. Take the mortgage-interest deduction, which was meant to encourage people to buy a home by lowering their annual income taxes. Economists widely argue that all the policy did was inflate home prices. At the same time, a 2014 study by the Center for Retirement Research found that the higher retirement-plan contribution limits that kick in at age 50 lead to only slightly higher savings rates.

Effective or not for society, these kinds of targeted provisions are popular with legislators  and they arent going away. Simplification is discussed a lot, but Congress is better at creating new programs than getting rid of old ones, Luscombe points out. 
Mumbai: Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut recently announced that she will be hosting a new reality show 'Lock Upp' at a five-star hotel in Mumbai.

ALTBalaji producer Ekta Kapoor was also present at the event. The reality show will be streamed on ALTBalaji's OTT platform.

(Pic Courtesy: Viral Bhayani)

During the promotional event, Kangana Ranaut challenged Bollywood's Dabbang Salman Khan and said that this isn't your 'brother's house' or 'bhai ka ghar'.

Rather, in this show contestants will be jailed.

Since the show is similar to Bigg Boss, Kangana Ranaut will be seen challenging Salman Khan's show on TV.

Ekta Kapoor also joked at the show and said that 'dar ke aage jeet hai' and 'jeet ke aage hai Jeetendra', cracking a joke on her father and veteran actor Jeetendra.

Kangana, at the event, expressed that she doesn't want to copy anyone from Bollywood. She also spoke about her Twitter ban and said that although she loved being on Twitter, the platform did not allow her to be on it.

Coming back to the show, Ekta Kapoor said that nobody can host the upcoming show 'Lock Upp' better than Kangana.

Interestingly, Alia Bhatt was also present at the same hotel where Kangana was present. Due to this, Kangana was repeatedly questioned about Alia's upcoming film 'Gangubai Kathiawadi'.
With tensions between Russia and Ukraine ratcheting up, some former diplomats and Kremlin watchers are debating the effectiveness of any sanctions imposed on Moscow should it invade its neighbor to the west.



Britain's former ambassador to Russia, Tony Brenton, has long doubted the efficacy of sanctions, saying they "don't work on Russia."

Brenton has argued "Russia just becomes even more obdurate." And some critics of sanctions say Russia has been readying itself to withstand more Western penalties  from cutting back using dollars to boosting foreign currency reserves and trimming budgets. Russia has a current account surplus of seven percent of GDP and $638 billion in foreign reserves.



Russian business has also become adept at import substitution and its major banks are well-funded, they say.



Others think sanctions can work if they are sufficiently ruthless, adding that the Kremlin needs to be left in no doubt how biting they will be this time around.



U.S. President Joe Biden and European leaders hope that by raising the price of war for Russia, President Vladimir Putin will be deterred, and they have maintained a steady drumbeat of warnings in recent weeks, saying a further Russian invasion of Ukraine will trigger the harshest economic sanctions ever seen.



New sanctions would also target Russian companies and oligarchs close to the Russian president, Biden and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned this week.



"The individuals we have identified are in or near the inner circles of the Kremlin and play a role in government decision making or are at a minimum, complicit in the Kremlin's destabilizing behavior," White House spokesperson Jen Psaki told reporters in Washington.



Russian officials have been dismissive of the warnings. "It's not often you see or hear such direct threats to attack business," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said at a news conference this week in the Russian capital.



And Peskov promised a significant response that would hurt Western businesses if Russia is sanctioned again. "An attack by a given country on Russian business implies retaliatory measures, and these measures will be formulated based on our interests, if necessary," he added.



The diplomatic exchanges over sanctions come amid escalating tensions over Russia's troop buildup on the border with Ukraine. Russia's troop presence marks the biggest military buildup Europe has seen since the end of the Cold War.



The United States accuses Russia of preparing an invasion, which Moscow has repeatedly denied, accusing Western powers of causing alarm.



There has long been a debate about the effectiveness of sanctions, including among some who were in Biden's inner foreign policy circle before joining the administration.

Victoria Nuland, now a top official at the State Department, questioned more than a year ago whether sanctions actually work and argued their use against Moscow needed to be rethought. In Foreign Affairs magazine, she wrote, "U.S. and allied sanctions, although initially painful, have grown leaky or impotent with overuse and no longer impress the Kremlin."



U.S. officials last year said Biden intended to review the sanctions already imposed on Russia. Some officials say the aim is to readjust the sanctions to increase their immediate impact, as part of an effort to fashion a more rounded and consistent Western strategy toward Russia  one that aligns military, economic, energy, diplomatic and communications policies. Whether an actual review ever took place or whether events overtook a review is not clear.



Kremlin officials have long downplayed the impact of the Western sanctions that began to be imposed in retaliation for Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea, apparently hoping to persuade Western governments to abandon them on the grounds that they don't work.



Aside from sanctions for the Crimea annexation and seizure of part of Ukraine's Donbass region, Western governments have implemented penalties in response to malicious cyber activities they blame on the Kremlin. Sanctions also have been imposed for alleged human rights abuses and for the March 2018 nerve agent poisoning in Britain of former Russian military intelligence officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter.



Some sanctions have been broad economic ones. Others have targeted individuals.



Part of Moscow's line has been that sanctions are hurting Western countries more than Russia, a position often echoed and amplified by business interests in the West. While the Kremlin has downplayed the significance of the penalties, it also has railed against them and maintained that they should be lifted, saying they amount to "interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state."



That may suggest sanctions have been more troublesome for Russia than the Kremlin is willing to admit, according to David Kramer, a former assistant secretary of state in the administration of President George W. Bush. "If you look at all the efforts and time and energy the Kremlin has spent on trying to get sanctions lifted, then that would indicate that the Russians feel they have had an impact," he told VOA recently.



Kramer suspects Russia might have been tempted to encroach further into Ukraine in 2014 and 2015 had the West not imposed sanctions. This time round, though, he's worried that the sanctions being contemplated won't in the end be tough enough.



"I am worried that there is not complete agreement on the range of sanctions," he told VOA. "It's difficult to get agreement among 27 EU member states, and that's why, while U.S.-EU unity is preferable, it's sometimes necessary for the U.S., possibly with the UK and Canada, to go ahead on its own rather than settle for the lowest common denominator," he said.



"U.S. sanctions are extraterritorial in nature and can have significant impact, especially if we target their banking and energy sectors, as well as Putin and the circle immediately around him, as proposed in recent congressional legislation," he added.



Some Kremlin watchers question whether targeting high-profile individuals, from oligarchs to government officials, has much of an effect aside from symbolism, arguing sanctioned individuals are compensated by the Kremlin for their losses and are not going to lobby Putin to modify or alter his policies as their status and wealth depend on their loyalty to him.



They say sanctions need to be broad-based and impact key companies in Russia's important energy, defense and financial sectors. Edward Fishman, a former member of the U.S. secretary of state's policy planning staff, has long maintained the penalties imposed on Putin's Russia in the past were watered down because U.S. allies were reluctant to suffer blowback economic costs and wanted to reduce harm to ordinary Russians.



"To change Putin's behavior, you need to ratchet up sanctions on companies in the energy, defense and financial sectors  that would more likely force the Kremlin to shift its calculus," he told VOA recently. "The scale of sanctions has to be much greater to prompt a change in behavior."
In the latest development of a years-long battle between the town of Narragansett and local tenants and landlords, Superior Court judge Sarah Taft-Carter this week halted an ordinance passed by the Narragansett Town Council that capped the number of unrelated individuals who can live together in a rental house to three. The move means that, until a court rules on the legality of the most-recent ordinance passed in August 2021, Narragansett is unable to enforce a limit on rental houses and apartments in town. Narragansett Town Manager James Tierney said the town has no timeline on when a decision may ultimately be made by the courts, putting the potential limit in limbo until it is legally decided. Do you believe a town should be allowed to limit how many unrelated individuals can life together in a single dwelling? Why or why not? Let us know in this week's poll question below.

You voted:
Domestic outbreaks

Well-executed response to traveler infected with monkeypox

One of the symptoms of monkeypox is a rash similar to the rash caused by the smallpox virus.

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease, especially in the US, but outbreaks in Africa have killed up to 10% of infected people. Monkeypox is similar to smallpox but has milder symptoms. When a traveler infected with monkeypox flew into the US from Nigeria in July 2021, NCEZID sprang into action to keep the disease from spreading.

The response depended on swift coordination of public health authorities from 25 states and more than 70 NCEZID staff. The team monitored for signs of illness in more than 200 people who came into contact with the traveler. This included his family members, other airline passengers, his healthcare team, and lab scientists who processed his samples. Everyone completed monitoring without becoming ill. NCEZID staff also performed lab testing, developed monitoring guidance, and oversaw the first-ever use of TPOXX, a smallpox treatment stockpiled by the Strategic National Stockpile.

This Matters Because CDCs quick and coordinated action with state and local partners prevented a potential outbreak of monkeypox, a dangerous virus that can kill people it infects.

Global outbreaks

In 2021, CDC helped contain and end Ebola outbreaks in DRC and Guinea.

New emergency response model helped CDC contain 2021 Ebola outbreaks

After helping to bring the worlds second-largest outbreak of Ebola to an end in 2020, CDC successfully supported simultaneous efforts to contain and end two Ebola outbreaks in 2021.

In a joint effort, NCEZID and CDCs Center for Global Health responded to an outbreak in North Kivu Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where 12 cases and 6 deaths were reported. The Centers also supported a response in Guineas NZerekore Prefecture, where the outbreak recorded 23 cases and 12 deaths.

CDC deployers completed more than 25,000 hours supporting response and preparedness efforts in seven countries. Deployers provided technical assistance for epidemiologic investigations, contact tracing, laboratory testing, risk communication, community engagement, and vaccination. They also helped roll out rapid diagnostic testing programs for post-mortem surveillance.

These responses were smaller than the activations to combat COVID-19 and the 2018 eastern DRC Ebola outbreak and, notably, they were conducted while the COVID-19 pandemic dominated the worlds attention and resources. However, despite challenges, both outbreaks were ended within months.
Going into National Signing Day the LSU Tigers had their eyes on one of the best recruits in the state of Louisiana, TreVonte Citizen.

Many Tiger fans were watching as Citizen proceed to do multiple fakeouts where he put on four different hats (Auburn, Miami, Florida, and LSU) before throwing them all down and choosing Miami. With Citizen now out of the picture for head coach Brian Kelly, whats the plan?

News broke out of Tuscaloosa on Tuesday that former five-star running back Camar Wheaton has entered the transfer portal. Camar Wheaton was a member of the 2021 recruiting class.

He was the No. 3 running back in the nation, the No. 6 player in Texas, and the No. 34 player in the country according to 247sports. Wheaton played at Lakeview Centennial High School in Garland, Texas, where he finished his career with a rushing total of 3,731 yards and 48 touchdowns.

He signed with Alabama out of high school and enrolled early for the 2021 season. Wheaton went to Alabama and was viewed as a player who would get a lot of playing time, but that was cut short by a meniscus injury in practice that sidelined him for the full season. He wound up redshirting for the Crimson Tide.

Camar Wheaton got injured in practice, and he was a really good young player that people dont know about yet, said Saban during an early-September radio show  He was a real speedster and really a guy that could have probably been helpful to us this year, as well.

LSU came into national signing day looking for a running back. While Wheaton wasnt the target, to begin with, he wouldnt be a bad guy to end up with.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) A common electoral roll to identity voters for Lok Sabha, assembly and local body polls would reduce the cost and effort involved in the process of preparing separate lists, Law Minister Kiren Rijiju said in the Rajya Sabha.

While several states use the electoral roll prepared by the Election Commission to hold Lok Sabha and assembly polls, some states use their own lists for local body elections.

Also Read | '127 Tigers Died in 2021', Reveals MoS for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ashwini Kumar Choubey.

The EC is mandated to hold President, Vice President, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and assembly elections. State Election Commissions, which are entirely different bodies, hold local body and panchayat polls.

"The common electoral roll would reduce the cost and effort involved in the process of preparing separate electoral rolls," Rijiju said in a written reply.

Also Read | Rahul Gandhi Got Real Pulse of India, Says Indian Union Muslim League Member ET Mohammad Basheer.

He said a meeting was chaired by the cabinet secretary with the chief secretaries of various states on September 3, 2020 related to the use of common electoral rolls in elections to local bodies.

Certain concerns were raised in the meeting and a consensus was made to address the same by amending the Representation of the People Act, 1950 to provide for four qualifying dates for registration of new voters.

"Accordingly, the Election Laws (Amendment) Act, 2021 has been enacted by Parliament which inter alia ensures the four qualifying dates for the registration of new voters," he said.

State governments are required to make changes in their legislations to adopt the electoral rolls for parliamentary and assembly elections for use in local body elections.

Election Commission of India would provide requisite additional fields in the existing electoral rolls to enable ward-wise segregation of voters.

"Further, ECI would be required to provide adequate number of electronic voting machines to states for local body elections to resolve issues related to large number of polling stations," 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)
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FILE - In this undated image from the Free Ramy Shaath Facebook page, Ramy Shaath poses for a picture Jan. 2, 2015, in Cairo, Egypt. Egyptian authorities deported Ramy Shaath, the son of a prominent Palestinian politician after he served 2 1/2 years of pre-trial detention over allegations of having ties with an outlawed group, his family said Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022. (Free Ramy Shaath Facebook page via AP, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

CAIRO (AP)  European parliamentarians urged their governments and the United Nations on Thursday to bring Egypt's devastating" human rights situation under more global scrutiny.

The lawmakers issued a statement calling on the U.N. Human Rights Council to establish a monitoring and reporting mechanism on Egypt at its upcoming first and highest-level meeting of 2022, set for Feb 28.

We are extremely concerned about the international communitys persistent failure to take any meaningful action to address Egypts human rights crisis, read the statement, signed by 175 parliamentarians from the EU bloc and the UK.

This failure, along with continued support to the Egyptian government and reluctance to even speak up against pervasive abuses has only deepened the Egyptian authorities sense of impunity, it added.

Since rising to power in 2013, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi has overseen a rollback of many freedoms and outlawed the Muslim Brotherhood, labeling it a terrorist organization. The country is ranked among the worlds worst jailers of journalists, along with Turkey and China, according to the nonprofit Committee to Protect Journalists.

Many of those who have been imprisoned in recent years are Islamists but they also include secular activists who were involved in the 2011 Arab Spring uprising that toppled the countrys longtime autocrat Hosni Mubarak.

Despite this devastating picture, the international community has by and large limited its reaction to rare, occasional statements of concern at the U.N. Human Rights Council, added the statement.

The parliamentarians' appeal comes shortly after recently-freed Egyptian-Palestinian activist Ramy Shaath spoke before the EU Parliament's Human Rights Subcommittee about torture, beatings and what he described as inhumane" living conditions in Egyptian prisons.

Last month, Shaath was released from a Cairo prison where he had spent nearly two years and a half in pre-trial detention over allegations of having ties with an outlawed group. Upon his release, he was deported after being forced to renounce his Egyptian citizenship. He eventually landed in Paris with his French wife Celine Lebrun Shaath.

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The legal system is politicized and not independent, Shaath told the EU parliament on Jan. 26. "Egyptian officers would say many times in prison We are not subject to any law, we can take you, we can kill you, we can bury you, we can torture you, you are ours."

Last year, Egyptian authorities released a few activists and journalists whose detention had stirred a global outcry. El-Sissi also launched what he dubbed a national human rights strategy that aimed at upgrading the conditions of human rights in Egypt. However, such moves fell short of convincing his detractors that he was genuinely embracing a new course of action.

We take note of some recent modest steps taken or announced by the Egyptian authorities, said the EU parliamentarians. Yet regret that these steps hardly constitute anything more than an effort to whitewash their dismal human rights record.
The Defence Forces have said a number of foreign warships have been monitored operating in Irish controlled waters in recent days.

It comes ahead of Russian naval exercises due to begin on Tuesday.

The Air Corps' Airbus CASA CN235 maritime patrol aircraft and the LE Samuel Beckett of the Irish Naval Service observed United States, Russian and French vessels both outside and inside Ireland's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The observations were carried out as part of the Maritime, Defence and Security Operations, the Defence Forces said.

The Air Corps also monitored RAF Eurofighter Typhoon fighter aircraft flying to the southeast of the Irish EEZ.

Irish territorial waters extend 12 miles from the coast and the vessels were operating outside of this jurisdiction in international waters, in accordance with maritime law.

The Defence Forces spokesperson concluded: There is no restriction on warships operating on the High Seas inside and outside of Exclusive Economic Zones.

Irish Air Corps personnel monitoring inside Airbus CASA CN235 maritime patrol aircraft

On Tuesday, a British naval warship began monitoring two Russian naval vessels making their way through the English Channel.

The French military said on Monday that it had monitored two Russian ships, the Soobrazitelniy and the Stoykiy, and had now handed over the responsibility to Britain's HMS Argyll, a Type 23 frigate, and the US Navys USS Roosevelt.

The Soobrazitelniy is a Slava Class Guided Missile Cruiser which was seen with a helicopter on its deck, and the Stoikiy, a corvette armed with anti-submarine torpedoes.

The US Navys USS Roosevelt, a destroyer equipped with two helicopters, was also observed by the Defence Forces.

Tass, Russias state news agency, reported on January 24 that the two Russian vessels had left Kaliningrad to conduct combat exercises.

The US Navys USS Roosevelt, a destroyer equipped with two helicopters, was also observed by the Defence Forces.

The Soobrazitelniy is a Slava Class Guided Missile Cruiser which was seen with a helicopter on its deck

The Stoikiy, a corvette armed with anti-submarine torpedoes.

The Air Corps also monitored RAF Eurofighter Typhoon fighter aircraft flying to the southeast of the Irish EEZ.
N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper announced Wednesday, Feb. 2 that BrassCraft Manufacturing Company will create nearly 100 new jobs in Davidson County with a $13 million expansion of its Chair City facility. The Google map shows where BrassCraft is located on Randolph Street in Thomasville.

BrassCraft Manufacturing Company will create nearly 100 new jobs in Davidson County, Gov. Roy Cooper announced Wednesday, Feb. 2.

Daring to be different ... again:: Davidson County business partners will open restaurant inside Lexington brew house

The company provider will invest more than $13 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Thomasville.

This expansion by BrassCraft is a great vote of confidence for North Carolinas economy, said Cooper. The company has seen success in Davidson County and understands the value of our workforce, quality of life and central location that support its global reputation.

Founded in 1946, BrassCraft Manufacturing Company designs, manufactures, and distributes rough plumbing products for new construction and repair and remodel markets. The companys portfolio includes water stops, gas connectors, water connectors/supply lines, water heater connectors, drain cleaning products, and plumbing hand tools that are sold in wholesale and retail locations across the United States.

Expansion of the Thomasville plant, located at 1024 Randolph St., will increase the companys local manufacturing footprint to 157,000 square feet of production space.

The Thomasville team is critical to delivering the quality and craftsmanship that plumbers and contractors have come to expect from BrassCraft products, said Tom Assante, president, BrassCraft. Expansion of this facility is an investment in our people, our brand and US manufacturing.

N.C. Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders added: North Carolinas greatest asset to growing companies is our people. We remain committed to creative workforce training systems and partnerships that will offer the talent and innovation that companies like BrassCraft need to execute their growth strategies.

If you want to keep up with the events, people and places of Davidson County, please support local journalism by subscribing to The Dispatch.

New employment positions at BrassCraft include assembly personnel, engineers, management and support staff, at varying wages, and will create a potential payroll impact of more than $4.5 million per year. Davidson Countys overall average annual wage is $42,274.

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A performance-based grant of $200,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help with BrassCrafts expansion. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment

All One NC grants require a matching grant from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

This is outstanding news for Davidson County, said N.C. Rep.Sam Watford (R-Davidson). BrassCraft has been a great corporate citizen for more than 60 years and were ready to support their operations for many years to come.

N.C. Senator Steve Jarvis said the companys continued investment in Davidson County "is a testament to the talent, innovation and growth potential of our manufacturing region.

Partners in this expansion project include the N.C. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, N.C. Community College System, Davidson-Davie Community College, Davidson County, Davidson County Economic Development Commission and City of Thomasville.

More: Customers react to impending close of Lexington's Lidl grocery store

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Jill Doss-Raines is The Dispatch trending topics and personality profiles senior reporter and is always looking for tips about businesses and entertainment events, secret and new menu items, and interesting people in Davidson County. Contact me at jill.doss-raines@the-dispatch.com and subscribe to us at the-dispatch.com.

This article originally appeared on The Dispatch: Expansion of a Thomasvlle plumbing manufacturer will create 100 new jobs in Davidson County
HOUSTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Capstreet Group ("Capstreet"), a Houston-based lower middle market private equity firm, announced today that Kirk Harrell has joined the firm's Operating Executive Group as Senior Vice President of Talent, a newly created position. In addition, the firm announced that Brian Hopkin has been promoted to Vice President.

Mr. Harrell comes to Capstreet with nearly 20 years of executive search experience, most recently at Focus Search Partners, where he was a Managing Director responsible for leading senior executive assignments for clients ranging from early-stage startups and private equity-backed companies to publicly traded global organizations. Prior to that, he was a Managing Director at Taylor Winfield, which was acquired by Focus Search Partners. His experience spans a broad spectrum of industries including Software, Tech-Enabled Services, Industrial, eCommerce, and Digital Media. Mr. Harrell holds a B.A. in Business Administration from Baylor University.

Rick Pleczko, CEO Operating Executive Group at Capstreet, said, "We are delighted to welcome Kirk to Capstreet. His deep understanding of building successful teams, coupled with his familiarity with diverse industries, will be invaluable as we continue to expand the knowledge base and resources available to our portfolio companies."

Capstreet's Operating Executive team was formed in early 2019 and expanded in 2021 with the addition of Rick Pleczko as CEO, Cathy Francis as Chief Revenue Operations Officer, and Walker Kahle as Senior VP, Portfolio Operations.

"I am excited to become part of the Capstreet team and look forward to working with my colleagues and portfolio company executives to help drive value creation and help build enduring, profitable businesses," said Mr. Harrell.

Mr. Hopkin started as a Senior Associate at Capstreet last April and has been involved in portfolio company management, business development, and deal execution, including Capstreet's recent investment in hh2 Cloud Services. Prior to joining Capstreet, he was a Senior Associate at McCarthy Capital and earlier spent several years as an Associate at Platte River Equity. He began his career as an investment banking analyst at Barclays. Mr. Hopkin holds a Bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University and an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management.

"We are pleased to recognize Brian's hard work and contributions over the past year with this well-deserved promotion and look forward to his playing a key role at the firm going forward," said Neil Kallmeyer, Managing Partner at Capstreet.

About The Capstreet Group

Founded in 1990, Capstreet invests in lower middle market software, tech-enabled services and industrial business services companies. With over 45 platform investments and over 200 add-on acquisitions since inception, Capstreet's investment strategy is focused on utilizing its Capvalue Framework to accelerate growth and profitability and creating long term sustainable businesses. The majority of Capstreet's investments have been with founder or entrepreneur-owned businesses. For more information, visit the Capstreet website, www.capstreet.com.

Contact:

Lambert & Co.

Jennifer Hurson, 845-507-0571, [email protected]

or

Caroline Luz, 203-656-2829, [email protected]

SOURCE The CapStreet Group
Oklahoma recently injected millions of dollars in new funding for hundreds of school districts with under-resourced facilities.

The state distributed $38.5 million in Redbud School Grants for the first time on Friday. Lawmakers created the program last year to put medical marijuana tax dollars toward districts and charter schools that earn below the state average in local taxes that support school buildings.

Its going to be huge for a lot of school districts and finally bring some parity," Rep. Kyle Hilbert said.

Hilbert, R-Bristow, was an author of Senate Bill 229, the legislation that established the grant program.

Kyle Hilbert

Oklahoma school districts earn an average of $330 per student from local tax sources for their building fund, which supports school facilities. Of the 540 districts and charter schools in the state, 337 fell below the state average in building fund revenue.

Redbud grants raise those districts' funds to the state average.

Although some received only a few thousand dollars, the majority of benefiting districts gained tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands in new funding.

Lawton Public Schools had its building fund nearly double with a $2 million Redbud grant, the largest sum of any district in the state.

Students attend a reduced-size class at Santa Fe South High School in Oklahoma City on Aug. 12. Santa Fe South Charter Schools were among the first to reopen face-to-face in the Oklahoma City metro area for the 2020-21 school year.

Superintendent Kevin Hime said the district intends to put the money toward construction projects, such as a new school gym and an elementary school storm shelter.

Our board has made clear we want to do things that you can put your finger on and say, This is what we did with it, Hime said of the grants.

Lawton earns below the state average in local revenue because a large swath of the district is covered by Fort Sill, a federal Army base where the school system doesn't collect property taxes.

The Redbud program is an even bigger game changer for charter schools, which have no access to local tax dollars.

Redbud grants make biggest difference for Oklahoma charter schools

For a charter school, a Redbud grant represents the first-ever revenue source dedicated to its facilities. Virtual charter schools are excluded from the grant program.

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Local taxes, such as property and motor vehicle taxes, support school buildings, but theyre reserved for only traditional districts.

Unlike traditional public schools, charter schools cannot issue bonds  another critical resource used to renovate and construct facilities.

That means charters have had to use state funding for both academic and facility needs. With limited resources to acquire a building, many are located in former retail stores and shopping malls.

Chris Brewster, superintendent of Santa Fe South Charter Schools, talks with students as they prepare for a back to school bash at Santa Fe South High School inside the former Crossroads Mall in Oklahoma City on Aug. 7, 2017.

Dove Charter Schools in Oklahoma City gained more than $500,000 through the Redbud program. Harding Independence Charter District collected more than $300,000. Even the small Oklahoma City charter Sovereign Community School drew in about $33,000.

Santa Fe South Charter Schools, whose high school is housed in the former Crossroads Mall, received one of the largest grants in the state  about $1.3 million.

Those funds could translate into the financial capital needed to build athletic fields or an auditorium, facilities that many charter schools dont have, said Chris Brewster, superintendent of Santa Fe South schools.

It also freed up a similar amount of money from the charters state funding, which Santa Fe South poured into teacher training, reading specialists and academic recovery for students who fell behind during the pandemic.

All charters have had to cobble together solutions, Brewster said. This doesnt close the delta completely, but it does help.

Charter school settlement prompted the grant program in Oklahoma

Lawmakers created Redbud grants to replace a controversial lawsuit settlement that would have given charter schools access to local tax dollars.

The Oklahoma State Board of Education unexpectedly settled a 4-year-old lawsuit in March with the Oklahoma Public Charter School Association, which sued the state in 2017 for access to local revenue.

The settlement took many by surprise and instantly became polarizing in Oklahoma's education sphere.

The agreement was withdrawn once SB 229, which received rare unanimous support in the state House, codified Redbud grants in state law.

This was honestly a really fun project because typically at the state Capitol youve got groups fighting each other, and initially, with this issue, we did," Hilbert said of the lawsuit settlement. "Then, we found an issue that united everybody and brought them together."

How much Redbud gran money did my school receive?

You can find out exactly how much money your school received as part of the Redbud School Grant program using the table below, provided by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

The table is sorted by county.

Reporter Nuria Martinez-Keel covers K-12 and higher education throughout the state of Oklahoma. Have a story idea for Nuria? She can be reached at nmartinez-keel@oklahoman.com or on Twitter at @NuriaMKeel. Support Nurias work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma schools getting millions in medical marijuana tax dollars
Scott Morrison has backed Mark McGowan's decision to keep Western Australia's border closed in a dramatic change of tune.

Asked on Thursday if the Premier did the right thing by deferring his opening date, the Prime Minister replied: 'Yeah I think he did.'

Last month McGowan reneged on his plan to open the state's border on February 5, citing the number of Covid cases and hospitalisations in the east.

He was widely criticised by Australians desperate to see family members as well as businesses like Qantas and even the Australian Medical Association which accused him of breaking a promise and causing uncertainty.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese immediately backed Mr McGowan's decision - which is broadly popular in WA - but this is first time the Prime Minister has spoken in favour of the move.

Scott Morrison (above, at the National Press Club this week) has backed Mark McGowan's decision to keep Western Australia's border closed

'Omicron as we learned over the summer is a completely different virus,' he told Perth Radio 6PR on Thursday.

'The things we were doing before don't work the same way under the Omicron virus and as a result you've got to reset and rethink the things you were doing.'

Mr McGowan's critics say the only reason he is keeping the border closed is because he is presiding over a struggling health system, with several hospitals at capacity even without Covid.

Mr Morrison said the premier knows he will have to open at some stage but confirmed he is waiting until he is confident in the state's health system.

'When his health system he believes is ready to go, I'm sure he'll take that next step,' the Prime Minister said.

Mr McGowan announced his decision to keep the border closed in a dramatic late-night press conference on January 20.

He said he wanted to wait until more Western Australians including children had received booster doses but did not give a new date for re-opening.

'The aim is to get it [the third dose vaccination rate] up above at least 80 per cent, perhaps 90 per cent,' he said.

'But what we are going to do is review the situation over February and watch what is occurring over east and work out what the best approach is for Western Australia.'

Premier McGowan (pictured with wife Sarah) has not announced when his state will open its borders

Only 52.92 per cent of adults have been boosted in WA, raising fears the border could stay closed for moths.

Western Australians have lived relatively normally throughout the pandemic with only a few short lockdowns to quash outbreaks under Mr McGowan's zero-Covid policy.

Covid has spread rapidly over eastern Australia this summer due to the more infectious Omicron variant, but only 0.1 per cent of people infected have died with the disease, according to Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly.

The supportive comments mark a dramatic change of tune for Mr Morrison who in November blasted Mr McGowan for keeping his border shut contrary to the national re-opening plan which said there would be no domestic restrictions once 80 per cent are vaccinated.

All Australians know you can't trust a word Scott Morrison says. He's saying one thing to Perth, and something different in Parramatta Labor health spokesman Mark Butler

'Once you go over 80 per cent and you keep things locked down, you are doing more harm than good to your economy,' Mr Morrison told reporters back then.

Labor Health Minister Mark Butler said the flip-flop showed Mr Morrison was 'fickle' and cannot be trusted.

'All Australians know you can't trust a word Scott Morrison says. He's saying one thing to Perth, and something different in Parramatta,' Mr Butler told Daily Mail Australia.

'West Australians won't forget Scott Morrison's actions  he spent taxpayer funds to try to help Clive Palmer tear down the West Australian border at the height of the pandemic.'

It comes after the Prime Minister - who trails Labor by a massive 12 points in the polls - admitted he has made mistakes over the course of the pandemic.

In a speech at the National Press Club on Tuesday, he admitted three key errors including unfairly raising people's hopes before this summer, not placing the vaccine rollout under military command from the start and poorly managing outbreaks in aged care.

'We could have communicated more clearly about the risks and challenges that we still face,' Mr Morrison said in reference to how he called for an end to restrictions including mask-wearing before the Omicron wave in December.

PM admits three mistakes in pandemic 1. Raising hopes before summer by calling for an end to restrictions 2. Not placing vaccine rollout under military command from the start 3. Poor management of aged care outbreaks Advertisement

'In our communications, we have to be be clear about that. We can't lift people's hopes, then disappointment them. I think that's what happened over the break.'

Mr Morrison had travelled the nation in December calling for state governments to get out of people's lives and demanding a return to normal after two years of Covid restrictions - but just weeks later it became clear that strict rules were still needed as Omicron spread.

'Secondly, on the vaccination program, if I had my time over, I would have put it under a military operation from the outset and not later in the year,' Mr Morrison said.

The Prime Minister said the goal to offer a jab to everyone by October was achieved but admitted the rollout got off to a slow start, prompting him to install Lieutenant General John Frewen as boss of the programme.

'I took the decision to send in General Frewen and change the way we did it, and set up a change in the command structure, how logistics were managed, how it was planned. And it worked. But I wish we'd done that earlier. And that's a lesson,' Mr Morrison said.

In mid 2021 the federal government copped heavy criticism for the slow vaccine rollout which was well behind comparable nations and meant Sydney and Melbourne had to be plunged into four-month lockdowns amid Delta outbreaks.

The Prime Minster also admitted that aged care outbreaks should have been handled better, mentioning one incident at St Basil's home in Sydney when the staff had to isolate and the military had to be sent in.

'The interface between the aged care sector and the public hospital system was blurred. And so, when the storms of Covid hit, that created some real challenges,' he said.

'And in the aged care sector - I remember it was one of the hardest days of the pandemic - with St Basil's.

'We had a whole health workforce stood down because of Covid rules... and I had to send the military in that night.'

Mr Morrison was also criticised after he failed to say the price of bread, petrol and a rapid antigen test.

He was then rocked by allegations Gladys Berejiklian called him a 'horrible, horrible person' in a 2019 text exchange with an unnamed federal cabinet minister who called him a 'complete psycho'.
For a generation that has so far lived through two recessions, its no secret many millennials have been placed under a harsh financial burden.

Millennials have been left worrying for their financial future at rates unparalleled by other age groups, according to a poll by Morning Consult.

Morning Consults State of Consumer Banking & Payments report highlighted the hardships millennials face. Of the polls thousands of respondents, 45% of millennials say they are very or completely concerned money will prevent them from having the things they want in life.

A similar percentage  46%  say finances control their lives while 38% say they are often or always behind on their finances. Each response is at least 10 percentage points greater than that of other adult generations in the United States.

The poll has a margin of error of up to plus or minus 2 percentage points.

Millennials are described by the Pew Research Center as individuals born between 1981 and 1996. The generation follows Generation X and comes before Generation Z.

In the prime of their wage-earning years, millennials are struggling to balance the many financial responsibilities theyve shouldered and goals theyve set, Morning Consult said. Millennial financial well-being reflects the numerous struggles the generation faces: Both near- and long-term financial burdens weigh on them, but to varying degrees.

Part of that stress may come from student loan debt. Growing higher education costs have led 14.8 million millennials to carry student loan debt, more than any other generation, the Education Data Initiative said in October. The generation has an average balance of $38,777 per borrower.

Others have concern about affording homes in a difficult buyers market. Despite being the most populous generation in the U.S., only 47.9% of millennials owned homes in 2020, compared to 69% for Generation X and 77.7% for baby boomers, Forbes reported.

And when they did buy homes, the generation had plenty of buyers remorse. Nearly two-thirds of millennial homeowners surveyed by Bankrate in May said they had regrets about their purchase, with maintenance costs and high mortgage payments being the biggest reasons.

The idea of starting or growing their families has also caused some financial stress as millennials plan their futures. Fifty-five percent of millennial women have given birth, compared to 62% of Gen-Xers and 64% of baby boomers when they were the same age, the Pew Research Center found in a 2020 poll.

Uncertainty about the economy was the second-biggest reason why millennials are waiting to have kids, with the first being the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a survey conducted in May by The Harris Poll.

Millennials have lifelong damage, given the severity of the Great Recession, Mark Muro, policy director at the Brookings Institution, told Insider at the onset of the pandemic in 2020. Theyre still overshadowed by it, with new consequential burdens coming at them.

Thats not to say the generation isnt attempting to improve their financial situation. Morning Consult found 69% of its millennial respondents were saving for education, while 71% were working toward purchasing a home. About 86% of the generation had goals of improving their credit and 80% said they are trying to eliminate their debt.
Southern Illinois University Carbondale has extended the campus closure until 6 a.m. Saturday in the wake of the continuing winter storm.

All classes, including hybrid and online courses, scheduled for Friday have been canceled and most university offices will be closed. On-campus residence halls, residence hall dining centers and the universitys Department of Public Safety will remain open. Additionally, the Student Recreation Center will be open until 7 p.m. Thursday and will be open noon-7 p.m. on Friday.
(Natural News) A new study from Spain has once again confirmed that providing supplemental vitamin D3 to hospitalized patients with Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) reduced deaths by 64 percent.

According to the studys results, providing hospitalized COVID-19 patients with supplemental calcifediol, or vitamin D3, reduced intensive care unit admissions by 82 percent and overall mortality by 64 percent. The study also found that people who already had higher vitamin D at baseline were 60 percent less likely to die.

British Member of Parliament David Davis wrote that hospitals in the United Kingdom should start giving COVID-19 patients vitamin D3. In fact, he believes hospitals all over the world should start providing their coronavirus patients with vitamin D supplements.

Many other prominent politicians are also calling for official vitamin D supplementation in hospitals. Over at neighboring Ireland, Emer Higgins, a member of the Irish parliament and a prominent member of Fine Gael, one of three parties currently in government, called upon Irish Minister of Health Stephen Donnely to include vitamin D supplementation in the countrys Living with COVID-19 strategy.

There is negligible risk in this strategy and potentially massive gain, she said. Higgins relied on evidence from the Covit-D Consortium, a group of doctors from all over Ireland who have been lobbying the Irish government since early last year to use vitamin D supplementation as an additional measure to protect Irish citizens against COVID-19.

According to the consortiums own research, vitamin D can lower the risk of death from COVID-19 in elderly people by as much as 700 percent. (Related: BREAKTHROUGH: Simple sunlight exposure can protect against severe and deadly COVID-19 infections  study.)

Multiple studies prove vitamin D helps against COVID-19

It is clear from the results of the aforementioned Spanish study that vitamin D plays an important and underutilized role in preventing COVID-19 cases from getting worse. Multiple other studies have already confirmed this.

In Sept. 2020, a study published in the JAMA Network found that the higher a persons vitamin D levels are, the less likely they were to test positive for COVID-19.

A study published in June 2021 found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 infection and mortality. This study looked at data from all over the world.

Another study published in the peer-reviewed journal Scientific Reports found that a persons vitamin D level is a contributing factor in the severity of a persons infection. The study even found that there is a correlation between vitamin D levels in society and outbreaks.

According to the study authors, there was a surge in daily positive COVID-19 test results during the fall of 2020 in 18 European countries. This linearly correlated with latitude and sun exposure and vitamin D levels.

Multiple other studies have proven beyond reasonable doubt the relationship between supplementation with vitamin D and a significantly lowered risk of developing a severe case of COVID-19 and dying from the virus.

Vitamin D is essential for your immune system, said Bob Wheeler, a partner for Rapid Recovery, a medical clinic in Tyler, Texas. Not only is it essential for your immune system, it helps in the production of red blood cells Its just better to have a humming immune system than not.

Theres a huge correlation between the number of people in the hospital who have bad cases of COVID and who are vitamin D deficient, continued Wheeler.

More related stories:

If hospitals had utilized the Zelenko protocol with intravenous vitamin C and vitamin D, then COVID-19-associated deaths would be virtually nonexistent.

Dr. Holick: Having sufficient vitamin D could help reduce risk of getting COVID-19  Brighteon.TV.

Florida surgeon general supports common-sense COVID prevention strategies such as vitamin D and superfoods.

Simple vitamin D supplementation could halt COVID pandemic, research finds.

Vitamin D ameliorates severe COVID-19, preventing complications and death.

Watch this video from Natural News and learn the many ways vitamin D helps the body, as well as the best natural sources of vitamin D.

This video is from the Natural News channel on Brighteon.com.

Learn more about other nutrients that can help fight COVID-19 at CoronavirusNutrients.com.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

RTE.ie

TylerPaper.com

Brighteon.com
Photo taken on Nov. 26, 2021 shows the construction site of the Headquarters Building Phase I Project of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Wang Ping)

China is a big player when it comes to infrastructure in Africa, according to African Union (AU) Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy Amani Abou-Zeid.



ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- China is a big player when it comes to infrastructure in Africa, said Amani Abou-Zeid, the African Union (AU) commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, Wednesday.

Abou-Zeid made the statement while addressing a press conference on the sidelines of the AU Executive Council meeting, which brings together foreign ministers of African countries at the AU Headquarters in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We do have a large group of countries with whom we work closely in various sectors. Definitely, China is one of the important players in infrastructure in Africa in general," she said. "China is a big player when it comes to infrastructure in Africa."

The two-day AU Executive Council meeting is being held under the theme of the year "Building resilience in nutrition on the African continent: Accelerate the Human Capital, Social and Economic Development."

Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat (R) speaks during the opening of the 40th ordinary session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Feb. 2, 2022.(Xinhua)

In a recent interview with Xinhua, Abou-Zeid had emphasized that the energy, infrastructure and digital economy are potential areas for further enhancing Africa's connectivity and integration and boosting bilateral partnerships with China and beyond.

Abou-Zeid had also highlighted China's supportive role in the AU's 50-year continental development Agenda 2063, saying, "For us at the African Union Commission, we do appreciate the approach adopted by China to advance the partnership based on African priorities and the Agenda 2063." 
WESTON, Mass., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fastweb ( www.fastweb.com ), the leading website for scholarship and financial aid information and a member of the Monster network, commemorates the achievements of African Americans throughout history during Black History Month with scholarship resources for students.

Focusing on today's African American high school and college students, Fastweb has compiled a comprehensive list of scholarships in a variety of academic areas in their new resource  Scholarships for African American Students. The opportunities showcased represent the STEM fields, journalism, architecture, financial services and more. Award amounts range from $500 to $75,000 and related internships are also included.

"This 2022 resource highlights scholarship opportunities for African American students from educational institutions, foundations, and other organizations across a variety of majors and disciplines," said Mark Nelson, Senior Vice President, Fastweb. "At Fastweb we are committed to bringing students relevant scholarship resources to help them achieve their academic goals."

Fastweb encourages all students to learn about the various financial aid options available to help pay for college. Students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form today to start the federal student aid process. Information on the FAFSA application can be found in Fastweb's Financial Aid section. Visit Fastweb.com or download the Fastweb app for more helpful free online resources.

About Fastweb:

Fastweb, a top site in the Monster network, is the nation's recognized leader in helping students pay for school, by providing scholarship and financial aid information, as well as information on jobs and internships. As the oldest and most popular free online scholarship matching service, one out of three college-bound seniors use the site and more than 50 million users have benefitted from Fastweb's information and services. Fastweb lets students create personalized profiles that can be matched against its expansive databases of colleges and scholarships. To learn more about Fastweb, visit www.fastweb.com and follow Fastweb on social media for the latest on paying for school all year long: Twitter (at @PayingForSchool); Facebook; Instagram and Pinterest.

About Monster

Monster is a global leader in connecting the right people to the right jobs. Every day, Monster aims to make every workplace happier and more productive by transforming the way employers find talent and candidates find careers. For 25 years, Monster has worked to transform the recruiting industry. Today, the company leverages innovative digital, social, and mobile solutions to enable employers and candidates to find the right fit. Monster is a digital venture owned by Randstad North America, a subsidiary of Randstad N.V., a $26 billion international provider of flexible work and human resources services.

SOURCE Monster
(Natural News) Truck drivers in Australia have taken a cue from Canadas Freedom Convoy participants and have driven to the countrys capital in Canberra to protest enduring and pointless Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) mandates, including one for vaccines  though obstinate Australian leaders still pledged that booster jabs will become mandatory very soon.

The Daily Mail reported that protesters from around the country arrived in the capital on Monday, January 31, as part of a demonstration dubbed Convoy to Canberra, and involved enough cars and trucks to stretch for several miles.

The protest in Australia comes as roughly 50,000 truckers in Canada drove to Ottawa, that countrys capital, over the weekend to lash out against vaccine mandates and lockdowns that are hurting their industry and worsening an already bad supply chain crisis.

It also comes after Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews issued a warning that soon he will likely require COVID-19 boosters in order for people to be considered fully vaccinated.

There has already been some mandating done for third doses, and there will be more, he pledged on Sunday, January 30.

The Daily Mail added: Many drivers left their homes in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia on Saturday to travel thousands of kilometers in their trucks, vans and SUVs. Already several of them have been involved in separate accidents with one Land Rover caught in a five car pile-up near the Hawkesbury River. Photos of the crash were uploaded to Facebook showing the front of a blue vehicle completely squashed and its back trailer lifted up with a Land Cruiser pinned underneath it. A member of the convoy said the car was a write-off and described it as a casualty of war.'

Meanwhile, demonstrators flooded their social media accounts with pictures and videos taken of the miles-long protests with some showing streets and highways completely filled with tractor-trailer rigs, cars, SUVs and other vehicles as they drove past cheering supporters who yelled slogans and waved Australian flags.

One supporter reported waiting with a tribe on the Mount Street Bridge in North Sydney while waving flags as the convoy passed beneath her. What an amazing day, she wrote on social media.

I drove over to North Sydney to wait for the convoy to come through, half thinking Id be there solo. In no time at all a tribe appeared  and just kept growing (the photo was taken early on). It was an honor to be part of the boots on the ground today; spending an afternoon in the hot sun with people on the same page as me, waiting for another bunch of phenomenal humans to drive by, she added.

Another protester drove a truck with a billboard criticizing vaccinations for children featuring pictures of kids who had been hospitalized due to negative side effects.

COVID-19 vaccine side effects, the billboard read, adding: Dont risk your child.

Others sported slogans as well as flags, with one reading, God will protect our freedom fighters, and another saying, Leave our kids alone. No jabs needed  stats prove.

Local police warned residents to avoid highways and streets where the convoys were progressing, noting that traffic would be heavy and risks would be high.

In Canada, meanwhile, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had nothing but scorn for protesters there, calling their demonstration an insult to truth, according to the BBC.

This is not the story of our pandemic, our country, our people, he said. My focus is standing with Canadians and getting through this pandemic.

However, Candice Bergen, the deputy leader of the opposition Conservative Party, blasted Trudeau and said that the demonstrators represented millions of Canadians who have had enough of lockdowns and broken promises.

They deserve to be heard and they deserve respect, she noted on Twitter.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

BBC.com
The police in Oyo State have arrested no fewer than 12 suspects allegedly connected with cases of kidnapping at Onigari in Oluyole Local Government Area on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Ngozi Onadeko, paraded the suspects on Thursday at the Commands Headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the command also paraded 20 other suspects involved in alleged conspiracy, armed robbery, murder, and impersonation as an army officer.

Mrs Onadeko said that owing to the rising cases of kidnapping on Lagos/Ibadan expressway and murder at Onigari area of Oluyole Local Government Area on January 7, the command immediately swung into action deploying intelligence and tactical assets.

She said that the deployment at 3.30 p.m., on January 14, led to the arrest of one of the suspects, known as Maku-Maku, a suspected member of the kidnapping gang that had been terrorising travellers on the Lagos/Ibadan expressway.

The CP said that further investigation led to the arrest of other suspects while some were still at large.

Mrs Onadeko said the suspects confessed to having carried out the kidnapping operations that led to the death of one Oluwatosin Anwajoye, 45, at Onigari area of Lagos/Ibadan expressway on January 7.

In an interview with the journalists, one of the suspects, a commercial motorcyclist, confessed to being the one supplying the gang members food and other items.

He said that N10, 000 was paid to him for each errand he ran for the gang.

The commercial motorcyclist said the kidnappers promised to buy him a new motorcycle after their operation.

A victim of the gang, Folahan Olaleye, told journalists that his family was coming from Lagos on December 24, 2021, at 8.00 p.m., when they were attacked and kidnapped at Onigari area on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The victim said he was shot while his daughter and pregnant wife were beaten.

He said his wife and daughter were later released, but he was held in captivity and a ransom was demanded from his family.

Mr Olaleye said N2,750,000 ransom was eventually paid before he was released by his captors.

(NAN)
Twenty-two students attending United Township Area Career Center in East Moline, Illinois have been selected January 2022 Student of the Month. These students are chosen on the basis of classroom tests and performance, as well as attitude, motivation and attendance. These students will be awarded with a certificate indicating their achievement. Students from ten area high schools attend the Area Career Center where they receive a wide variety of training in these programs.
The supercomputers in India have got a new sibling, and that is the most powerful supercomputer in India, with a supercomputing capacity of 3.3 petaflops (1 petaflop equals a quadrillion or 1015 operations per second). Named as Param Pravega, this supercomputer is the largest in any Indian academic institution. This is commissioned in the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) in Bengaluru.

According to the institute majority of the components used to build the system have been manufactured and assembled within the country, along with an indigenous software stack developed by C-DAC, in line with the Make in India initiative. Meta Claims Its AI Supercomputer Will Be the World's Fastest.

IISC's Tweet

Param Pravega, among the most powerful supercomputers in India (3.3 petaflops), has been installed at IISc under National Supercomputing Mission. Many components manufactured & assembled in India, including indigenous software stack developed by @cdacindiahttps://t.co/BIyOPSgwkw pic.twitter.com/WDifsRnx1r  IISc Bangalore (@iiscbangalore) February 3, 2022

The supercomputer has been commissioned in the institution under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) to power diverse research and educational pursuits from across the country. The NSM has so far established 10 supercomputer systems across India with a cumulative computing power of 17 petaflops.

The National Supercomputing Mission was launched to enhance the research capacities and capabilities in the country by connecting them to form a Supercomputing grid, with National Knowledge Network (NKN) as the backbone.

The NSM is setting up a grid of supercomputing facilities in academic and research institutions across the country. Part of this is being imported from abroad and part built indigenously. The Mission is being jointly steered by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and implemented by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Pune, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru.

PARAM Shivay was the first supercomputer assembled indigenously, was installed in IIT (BHU), followed by PARAM Shakti, PARAM Brahma, PARAM Yukti, PARAM Sanganak at IIT-Kharagpur IISER, Pune, JNCASR, Bengaluru and IIT Kanpur respectively.

India is fast emerging a leader in high power computing with the National SuperComputing Mission (NSM) boosting it to meet the increasing computational demands of academia, researchers, MSMEs, and startups in areas like oil exploration, flood prediction as well as genomics and drug discovery.

According to the IISC statement These systems have greatly helped faculty members and students carry out major R&D activities, including developing platforms for genomics and drug discovery, studying urban environmental issues, establishing flood warning and prediction systems, and optimising telecom networks,.

Back to Param Pravega. Param Pravega is a supercomputer part of the High-Performance Computing class of systems, which is a mix of heterogeneous nodes, with Intel Xeon Cascade Lake processors for the CPU nodes and NVIDIA Tesla V100 cards on the GPU nodes. This machine hosts an array of program development tools, utilities, and libraries for developing and executing High Performance Computing (HPC) applications.

The IISC Bengaluru already has a cutting-edge supercomputing facility established several years ago. In 2015, the Institute procured and installed SahasraT, which was at that time the fastest supercomputer in the country. SahasraT, which was at that time the fastest supercomputer in the country. The facility is being used by students and faculty to carry out research in various impactful and socially-relevant areas.

The research conducted by the SahasraT supercomputer revolved around Covid-19 and other infectious diseases. This included modelling viral entry and binding, studying interactions of proteins in bacterial and viral diseases, and designing new molecules with antibacterial and antiviral properties.

According to the IISC statement Researchers have also used the facility to simulate turbulent flows for green energy technologies, study climate change and associated impacts, analyse aircraft engines and hypersonic flight vehicles, and many other research activities. These efforts are expected to ramp up significantly with Param Pravega.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 03, 2022 09:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
WE in the media rarely praise politicians. It is, probably, a weakness. Our role as journalists is to hold to account all those who have authority over us. We only exist in democracies. In autocracies we would be jailed were we to perform our job honestly. It begs the inevitable question - are those media people in the worlds dictatorships/autocracies really journalists? That is the question.

In democracies the relationship between media and those who rule over us all can be, should be, strained. We operate at a distance. We are not bosom buddies. Generally, those in authority do not like us Dr Fell. (Referring to a very funny comedy by Dublin playwright Bernard Farrell). They should not. Where they are concerned, we are like the weather. Something to be lived with, no matter how miserable. We wont go away you know.

They are the players on stage and we media are the critics. It was Brendan Behan who said once of critics that they were like eunuchs in a brothel; they know how it's done, they've seen it done every day, but they're unable to do it themselves. Having been a 'eunuch myself, as theatre critic for the Irish Press until it closed in 1995  an unrelated fact!  I have to acknowledge some truth in the astute and so sensitive observation by Mr Behan.

We media are the hurlers on the ditch. It does not mean we dont like or admire people in positions of authority, but we rarely say so. Its a flaw, dictated by a fear that we may be perceived to have lost our objectivity and so, henceforth, our judgement is suspect.

We dont want anyone to think we have favourites or that our judgement might be blunted in reporting the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. So help us!

This lengthy preamble is by way of allowing me freely praise our current Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney as probably the best in the history of this state. I dont know him personally, so this observation is entirely based on his performance in that post since 2017.

He has been superb on probably the most important foreign affairs issue to face Ireland in 50 years, Brexit. He has been calm, consistent, reasonable, despite sometimes outrageous provocation on the part of the current and, yes indeed, the previous Tory administration in Downing Street. He has done this State great service in that context.

His role last year and that of his Department of Foreign Affairs staff in securing a prestigious seat for Ireland on the UN Security Council  on the very first ballot! - was remarkable. That, of course, involved intense and clever campaigning over the immediate previous years.

His role, along with his fellow countymen  the Cork fishermen  in persuading Russia to move its naval exercises outside Irelands exclusive economic zone recently was, frankly, remarkable.

It may even suggest the Skibbereen Eagle newspaper was not at all exaggerating it or Corks influence over Russia when it proclaimed in an editorial of September 1898 that the paper would keep its eye on the Emperor of Russia, and all such despotic enemies  whether at home or abroad  of human progression, and mans natural rights, which undoubtedly include a nations claim to self-government.

That did not end there. In 1946 a cartoon was published of Irelands then taoiseach Eamon de Valera in one-to-one talks with then Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin, who murmured through pipe smoke: Between ourselves, Dev, Russia has never quite forgotten that article in the Skibbereen Eagle.

Clearly, Vlad Putin hasnt forgotten either!

On top of which Minister Coveney and his Foreign Affairs staff were central to the release last weekend of innocent Dublin businessman Richard OHalloran from China after what amounted to three years of groundless detention.

And there was Simon Coveney, with Taoiseach Micheal Martin, in Derry, speaking compassionately and eloquently about the massacre 50 years ago in that lovely city where 13 unarmed and innocent people were slaughtered by the British Armys Parachute Regiment, with another person to die of injuries some months later.

So what prompts this seeming eulogy? One which, it could be argued, challenges the objectivity to which I insist adherence? Frankly, it is that very objectivity which prompted me to look at Simon Coveneys contribution 'in the round, as opposed to recent seeming errors onto which his critics have seized.

Lets begin with those critics of his role in the release of Richard OHalloran. This innocent man went to China three years ago in an attempt to sort out financial shenanigans on behalf of the company he had recently joined and, effectively, ended up being kidnapped for three years. Intensive back channel efforts by Simon Coveney, Irish diplomats, and others, following torturous negotiations, meant he arrived at home last weekend. All done below the radar.

Mr OHalloran had hardly touched down in Dublin than 'those-who-know-everything' announced he would have been released sooner had different tactics been involved  no proof offered  while others criticised Simon Coveney for acknowledging the Chinese Embassy in Ireland and authorities in China itself for their help in releasing Mr OHalloran.

The fact is, and however outrageous the detention of Richard OHalloran in China, he could not have been released without the co-operation of some Chinese authorities. It was difficult not to conclude, where some such critics were concerned, that they were just jumping on the band waggon and that the easiest way to attract headlines was to criticise the Minister. Richard OHalloran himself felt otherwise.

Fine, Simon Coveney could have dealt better with the Zappone affair last year but few could have foreseen how that would have developed out of all proportion to its significance. Indeed, it has to be said Katherine Zappone would have been an excellent representative at UN level where Ireland was concerned but that, because the matter was so mishandled as much by her as anyone else, it ended up becoming a cause celebre last summer.

It did not help that she, an able and talented politician, suffers from what some have described as 'pushy Yank syndrome'. With more patience, she could have secured the role to the benefit of us all.

As for that other 'mishap which some insist on drawing Simon Coveney into  the 'celebrations by Foreign Affairs staff when Ireland secured its UN Security Council seat on the very first ballot 18 months ago. It simply should not have happened at that time, considering pandemic restrictions then. But who could blame them!

They had gathered to mount a campaign to canvass support to secure that seat in the belief we might not get it on the first vote. But, through their previous efforts we did and, to their delighted surprise, on that very first ballot. So celebrations (brief) burst out all over. Is there an Irish person on this planet who cannot understand what happened there? I very much doubt it. Is there an Irish person on this planet who did not breach a pandemic regulation? I very much doubt it.

This was not Downing Street. This was not 'Partygate'  one of a series of parties to illustrate that there was one law 'for them' and another 'for us'. Attempts to suggest Simon Coveney had responsibility for that 'celebration' is just low, naked political opportunism.

The people of Ireland are not stupid and politicians, above all, must know this. These petty attempts to damage probably one of our best Ministers in this Government, as well as in his role at Foreign Affairs, is more likely to rebound on the critics than on Simon Coveney himself.

None of this means he is above criticism or scrutiny, absolutely not. But it would be more credible if those who are out to 'get him' had solid grounds for doing so. Otherwise they are in danger of proving themselves mere political pygmies.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) TMC MP Mahua Moitra on Thursday hit out at the government claiming it wants to alter history, is "fearful of the future" and "mistrusts the present", adding that while the president, in his address, spoke about freedom fighters, it was just "lip service".

Participating in the Motion of Thanks on the President's Address, she referred to the government's recent announcement of installing a statue of Subhash Chandra Bose beneath the canopy at India Gate and asked if the iconic leader would have approved of the Dharma Sansad in which hate speeches were made.

Also Read | '127 Tigers Died in 2021', Reveals MoS for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ashwini Kumar Choubey.

Moitra, who is known for her fiery speeches in Parliament, continued in her usual manner, with the Chair even asking her to calm down and speak with "less anger".

"This government wants to alter history. They're fearful of the future and they mistrust the present. The president, early on in his address, speaks about freedom fighters who secured India's rights but this is just lip service," she claimed.

Also Read | Rahul Gandhi Got Real Pulse of India, Says Indian Union Muslim League Member ET Mohammad Basheer.

Stating that the government was "fearful" of a nation that is "comfortable in its own skin," Moitra said that it was time for the people to save the country.

"They are fearful of the future and and they mistrust the present," she said while speaking in the Lok Sabha.

"You fear a future India which is comfortable in its own skin, which is comfortable with conflicting realities...," she said.

She highlighted several human index reports which put India at a lower position and said that the government feared a future where it might not be able to arm-twist government officials to conduct raids on opposition leaders.

"That is why you need to extend the tenures of CBI and ED chiefs depending on how they do your bidding. You fear a future where bureaucrats in a state cannot be bullied by the Centre, so you amend the IAS cadre rules. This fear of irrelevance in the future makes you behave the way you do.

"You are not content with just our vote, you want to get inside our heads, inside our homes, to tell us what to eat, what to wear, who to love. But your fear alone cannot keep the future at bay," she said

Moitra asked what kind of India the people of the country wanted.

"What is the kind of Republic we want? What is the idea of India that we are willing to stand up for, fight for... get jailed for. Ours is a living Constitution. It breathes as long as we are willing to breathe life into it. Otherwise it's a piece of paper, black and white which can be smudged into any shade of grey by any majoritarian government," she said.

She said it is not enough for Indians to stand and watch, referring to former US President John F Kennedy, who she said had warned of such "hateful forces".

The TMC leader said that while the government talks of freedom fighters, in reality, recalling India's past, which is one of plurality and secularism makes this government insecure. Critical of the rejection of the Republic Day tableaux, of West Bengal on Netaji, from Tamil Nadu and other states, Moitra alleged that the government has "reinvented" Savarkar as a freedom fighter and recast the apology letter from him as a "political masterstroke."

She accused the government of appropriating the legacy of Bhagat Singh, who was staunchly anti-fascist, of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel who banned the RSS.

"The president's address refers to Netaji on multiple occasions. I'd like to remind the House that the same Netaji said Government of India should have an absolutely impartial and neutral attitude towards all religions. Would Netaji have approved of a Haridwar Dharma Sansad that issued blood-curdling calls for Muslim genocide," she asked.

Moitra said Netaji's INA's insignia was Tipu Sultan's springing tiger, whose name, she claimed, was erased from textbooks.

"The INA's motto was 'Ittehad, Itmad aur Qurbani', 'unity, trust and sacrifice', the same Urdu this government is delighted to replace with Hindi as the first and official language of Jammu and Kashmir. The president's address refers to Khadi as the symbol of consiousness under Bapu's leadership but the unholy Dharam Sansad issues calls to kill Bapu all over again. You have already been successful in glorifying Gandhiji's assassins...

"The masters of our Republic fear their own irrelevance if in the future India and Indians are guaranteed the rights enshirined in our Constitution," she said.

She accused the government of "mistrusting the soul of India" by linking Aadhaar cards to the right to vote which created a possibility of disenfranchising genuine voters.

"You mistrust our annadatas who repeatedly told you to not bring farm laws. Even when you rolled them back, I think, it was more your fear of losing 70 seats in western UP rather than any remorse you felt over the 700 farmers who passed away," she said.

The TMC leader accused the government of mistrusting Jats, Sikhs or anyone who questions them.

On the Pegasus issue, she said everyone who exposed the truth was lying and only "this government is in splendid isolation in telling the truth on Pegasus".

She lashed out at the government on the treatment of Muslims and said they were being denied houses on rent, spaces to pray.

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) member E T Mohammad Basheer said the president's address was contrary to facts and claimed that the government had failed to learn from the past as the Niti Aayog's National Multidimensional Poverty Index based on the National Family Health Survey brings out the reality about deprivation in different sectors.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Precious Chikwendu, the estranged partner of a former minister of aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has petitioned the United Nations (UN), Amnesty International, United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF), and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) seeking justice and custody of her children.

The petition comes about 48 hours after she penned a sad, public note to her first son Lotanna on his birthday.

Ms Chikwendu and Mr Fani-Kayode have been locked in a messy legal battle over the custody of their four sons since they split in 2020.

In December 2021, she urged a Customary Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) court to declare that she was never married to the ex-minister.

Contrary to his claims, she said he neither paid her bride price nor performed customary or statutory marriage rites with her. As a result, she seeks access to the four children she bore him.

In the same month, the former Minister disobeyed court orders to allow her access to her children, alleging that she has bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Mr Fani-Kayode, whom the Nigerian anti-graft arraigned for allegedly forging medical reports to evade trial on December 17, 2021, also alleged that she refused to breastfeed her sons, as such, owns no bragging right to be called a mother.

Although various court suits have granted Ms Chikwemdu access to her children, she has met a roadblock as she still has no access to her kids, who are all below the age of six.

She would later accuse him of defying a court order granting her access to their children after failing to produce their four children at the agreed venue as earlier ordered by a court.

In the letter titled, Request for Access to the Petitioners Four Male Children, Ms Chikwendu chose Central Park in Abuja to meet with the children on December 18, 2021, from 9 a.m. till 6 p.m.

Other days scheduled for the visitation were January 1, 2022, New Years Day, at the same venue and time.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CZby8CkvscX/?utm_medium=copy_link

The petition

The petition Justice for Snowhite and Sons billed to hit 10,000 signatures had accumulated 8128 signatures as of press time.

Other agencies named in the petition include Human Rights Campaign, Child Rights Advocacy, Project Alert, and Women Advocacy.

According to Ms Chikwendu, the petition was initiated to reach all international agencies reachable.

In the petition hosted on Change, org, the ex-beauty queen said her ex-partner has a history of abusing women. She also claimed she experienced severe mental and physical abuse for six years together.

Ms Chikwendu also claimed she was locked up in a mental home where she was injected with substances on the ex-ministers orders to enable him to create a situation to take over her kids.

The mother-of-four said since their affair ended on August 2, 2020, she has been denied access to her children.

The petition partly read: This petition would help African women who have been denied a right to their children because they were married to or cohabited with a person of power.

This petition would put an end to bullying and oppression from political spouses who have the power and means to oppress and frustrate their partners out of the lives of their growing children who need the love and care of both parents. Precious is seeking justice and custody of her children. This bill will help her bring her problem before the International community.
Following news of major cyberattacks on German-based oil storage companies, there are now reports of similar attacks in the Netherlands and Belgium. In recent days, reports emerged that the German-based facilities of the Oiltanking GmbH Group and Mabanaft Group had come under attack. Last Saturday, the companies stated, they had IT systems report incidents. The total impact of the attacks remains unclear, but external parties are working to deal with the situation and understand the threat. Most emphasis is currently being put on the restoration of operations to normal in the terminals. Up until now, it seems that only the Oiltanking Deutschland part of the operation has been affected. The German entity is part of Mabanaft. Oiltankings other global oil, gas, and chemical terminals all appear unaffected. Mabanafts German arm had declared force majeure for the majority of its inland supply activities in Germany. Analysts report that only 1.7% of Germanys gas stations are being impacted at present. German news agency DPA reported that the cyberattack has not threatened the countrys fuel supplies.

Some analysts are, however, worried that these attacks are linked to the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. Moscow has already threatened to shut off its pipelines in Europe if the Ukraine conflict escalates into a real conflict. While cyber-experts are playing down the possible link with Russia, it remains a real possibility that pro-Russian parties are trying to increase pressure on Berlin.

After news of the German attacks went public, new reports came out today suggesting that oil terminals in the Netherlands (Amsterdam, Terneuzen) and Belgium (Antwerp, Gent) have been hit too. Reports suggest oil vessels are having trouble loading and unloading their cargo in these ports. According to the Dutch website Marketscreener, six storage facilities of Sea Tank, Oiltanking, and Evos have been hit. When asked, the Dutch National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) stated that it seems not to be a coordinated attack. NCSC indicated that there could be a criminal motive behind it. Europes EUROPOL is also involved in the search for the culprits.

The German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) stated in a report that the BlackCat ransomware group was behind the recent cyberattack on the two German oil companies. According to German newspaper Handelsblatt, who got access to the report, the Oiltanking attack was carried out by BlackCat ransomware through a previously unknown gateway." Oiltanking did not confirm this.

BlackCat was also responsible for last years ransomware attack on the Colonial Pipeline in the U.S., which brought fuel supplies to the US East Coast to a total standstill. BlackCat seems to be linked to Darkside and another ransomware group, BlackMatter. US cyber-experts have indicated that BlackCat is a rebrand of BlackMatter.

While there are no direct links at present between BlackCat/BlackMatter and Moscow, it is hard to ignore the timing. This week, during a Putin news conference, the main focus was on the Ukraine conflict. In Moscows view, the crisis over Ukraine is a provocation entirely made in America. Moscow always links Ukraines future to the fact that the US may have positioned offensive weapons (land-attack weapons like the Tomahawk missile) near Russia. In a reaction to Putins statements, US Deputy National Security Advisor for Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies Anne Neuberger is at present talking to NATO members on a mission which is "largely focused on how to coordinate a NATO response should Russia again attack parts of the power grid in Ukraine or take out communications in an effort to destabilize the Ukrainian government." A potential cyber-based attack or cyberwarfare approach is clearly on their mind. At present, there is an emphasis on Russian cyber actions against Ukraine, as Ukraine is pressuring NATO members to assist it with cybersecurity. Recently, anti-Russian activists are said to have disrupted Belarusian rail transport. Without any doubt, the German-Dutch-Belgian cyber-attacks could be linked to a possible answer by others. One thing is clear, whatever or whoever is behind the current cyber threats, Moscow has the capability to hit whenever and wherever when it comes to cyberwar.

By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Israeli National Security adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat (L), Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif Al Zayani (C) and Israeli Foreign Ministry Director-General Alon Ushpiz (R) at the signing ceremony of a series of agreements between Israel and Bahrain, in Manama, Oct. 18, 2020. (Xinhua photo)



JERUSALEM, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Israel and Bahrain signed on Thursday a security agreement, the first of its kind since their normalization, during a two-day visit by Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz to the Gulf Arab country.



Gantz, who landed in Manama on Wednesday for the first visit of an Israeli defense minister, met Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa in the royal palace, Gantz's office said in a statement.

During the meeting, Gantz and his Bahraini counterpart Abdullah Bin Hassan Al Noaimi signed a security memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two countries, according to the statement.

The MoU, signed about a year after Israel and Bahrain normalized their relations, "will support any future cooperation in the areas of intelligence, mil-to-mil, industrial collaboration and more," the Israeli defense ministry said.

"We are building on the groundbreaking Abraham Accords and deepening ties between our nations. Only one year following the signing of the Accords, we have achieved an important defense agreement, which will contribute to the security of both countries and the stability of the region," Gantz said, hailing the "historic" MoU "new heights" in Israel-Bahrain relations.

Israel and Bahrain, along with the United Arab Emirates, decided to normalize their ties in a U.S.-brokered agreement in 2020.

In September of 2021, Bahrain's first ambassador to Israel presented his credentials to the Israeli president, days before Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid flew to Manama to open the first Israeli embassy in the Gulf country. 
(Natural News) Controversial attorney Thomas Renz accused the military of a huge coverup as he presented damning data showing huge spikes in illnesses within a year of the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine rollout.

Renz told host Pastor David Scarlett during the January 28 edition of His Glory on Brighteon.TV that he got the data from the Department of Defense, which shows the incidence of cancer went up 300 percent last year compared to 2020. (Related: Miscarriages and cancer up 300%, neurological problems up 1,000% due to covid vaccines.)

When I tell you that the incidence of cancer went up 300 percent in one year you dont have to be a genius to understand that theres something wrong there. I dont need to have a Ph.D. to know that there has to be a correlation with the vaccines because nothing else has changed. You dont need scientific analysis to say, Hey, theres something wrong. This is stuff that any layman on the planet can see, Renz said.

The data is straight from the defense, military, medical servers. They have medical records in the Defense Department and theyre widely acknowledged to be the most comprehensive and complete medical records out there. Theyre very good for analysis. So these are good records and weve got a whole bunch of stuff now that is really important.

The lawyer from Ohio said that this is only the tip of the iceberg and he has a lot of important data from respected people in the public health and medical sector, as well as credentialed military personnel who are now COVID-19 whistleblowers.

He also noted that some of the stuff they have downloaded were deleted, but they were lucky to download an immense number of records that they have shared with a lot of people around the country. Renz also said that he and a few other lawyers who are involved in the case are now taking every precaution because they are facing serious bad guys.

Immediate investigations, immediate halt to COVID jabs

Renz called on elected officials to conduct investigations immediately and urged them not to ignore or sweep the issue under the rug.

They need to put an immediate halt to these jabs, especially in the military. But in terms of mandatory jabs, they need to put a halt to that everywhere immediately. There needs to be a number of warnings that need to go out immediately, Renz stressed.

They knew this for a long time. This is corruption at the highest level. This is absolutely corruption.
(Natural News) The crimes against humanity complaint filed in Texas against individuals behind the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines has more teeth compared to the case filed before the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague.

The Prather Point host Jeffrey Prather stated this opinion during the January 28 episode of his show on Brighteon.TV.

So theres been a lot made of Nuremberg 2.0 and the International Criminal Court, and a lot of folks are very excited about that. And I have never been excited about that. The International Criminal Court at The Hague has no authority, it has no teeth. Its not a state court, Prather said.

How Nuremberg worked was with American soldiers invading Germany until they surrendered in the great effort of World War Two, and there were boots on the ground and lots of Nazis killed. They were able to hold court trials. There is no effort, kinetic effort like that [now]. There is nothing to back up the Nuremberg international efforts. It is toothless, it means nothing. There is no teeth to the International Criminal Court Nuremberg 2.0, so that is really meaningless.

On January 17, Jack Boteler filed a complaint at the Office of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton against individuals who are accused of conniving in murder and crimes against humanity. (Related: Criminal complaint filed in Texas accuses COVID-19 vaccine makers and pushers of murder and crimes against humanity)

Boteler, a resident of Harris County, Texas, is representing all interested parties who received the EUA experimental injection of genetic biologic material (mRNA or adenoviral DNA) coding for the coronavirus spike protein.

Extensive, detailed evidence of biowarfare toxin

Botelers complaint has extensive, detailed evidence to show that the accused jointly planned and executed the development and release of a biowarfare toxin with the dual objectives of global depopulation and population control.

Their aim, according to Boteler, is to establish a one-world government by bringing about panic, economic hardship, terror, death and injury to global populations.

This has teeth because this is Texas and this is a free state. And Texas was, for a decade, a free and sovereign state, said Boteler, a retired Special Operations Command (SOCOM) soldier.

They are bringing this suit against any and all officers of the Department of Health and Human Services, the Food and Drug Administration, the National Institutes of Health, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Medicaid, all of which, by the way, are not required to get the jab, just like White House staff and Congress are not required to get the jab.

Among the prominent personalities in the suit are Dr. Ralph Baric and the Board of Regents at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Francis Collins, Dr. Rick Bright, Dr. Janet Woodcock, Dr. Peter Daszak, William Bill Gates Jr., Theodore Ted Turner, Eli Broad, George Soros, Deborah Birx and Richard Rothschild.

Also included in the complaint are the directors or officers of Moderna, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Astra Zeneca, Pirbright Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the World Economic Forum, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

Perpetrators used psychological warfare mechanisms

Prather noted that the alleged perpetrators employed psychological warfare mechanisms like media reports, public policy, coercion, deceit mandates, bribes, travel restrictions, employment restrictions, free speech restrictions, delivery restrictions and other tactics to induce the global population into receiving the pre-planned experimental gene therapy, an accusation which he said is supported by data and evidence.

The Prather Point host added that this is the greatest psy-op [psychological operation] in history.

Prather pointed out that the American government has lost a fifth-generation change of culture war against nations, corporations and groups that are arrayed against it.

He also took note of Harvard professor Dr. Charles Lieber, who went to Wuhan every month to receive his $50,000 payments. Lieber, according to Prather, had a female military intelligence officer from the Peoples Liberation Army of China working for him as his handler, case officer or tactical agent handler.

More related articles:

BIOWARFARE: Chinese communists intentionally unleashed Frankenstein COVID-19, says Wuhan scientist.

Reiner Fullmich and 50 lawyers: The vaccines are designed to kill and depopulate the planet.

COVID-19 vaccine spike proteins are SHEDDING, giving people heart attacks, strokes and more.

Watch the full Jan. 28 episode of Prather Point below. The Prather Point with Jeffrey Prather airs every Friday at 10-11 a.m. on Brighteon.TV.

Follow Vaccines.news to know more about the COVID vaccines.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

DailyExpose.uk
(Natural News) As the saying goes, there are things in life you just cant make up, and this is one of them.

As details from a new book reveal the Biden family has closer ties to the ChiComs that previously known, reports surfaced last week showing that the Biden regimes free at-home COVID-19 test kits are made  you guessed it  in China under a billion-dollar-plus deal.

Fox News reports:

Fox News anchor Bill Hemmer Tuesday said he received his free COVID-19 tests through the mail under President Bidens new testing initiative, but noted the at-home kits were made in China.

Hemmer, co-host of Americas Newsroom, praised the federal government and the United States Postal Service (USPS) for getting the tests out quickly after he and many other Americans put in the request last week for free tests. But he noted when he turned the test package over, the fine print revealed the tests were manufactured in China.

I got mine yesterday, Hemmer said to co-host Dana Perino, holding up the kit. All four of them came. Congrats U.S. government. U.S. Postal Service did a great job. Got my four tests. And on the back of the fine print, Dana, it is made in China.

Of course, she said in response.

Hemmer got his 15-minute rapid antigen tests from a company called iHealth Labs Inc., which has its headquarters in Sunnyvale, Calif. However, the actual test is Made in China, the label notes.

Thats because iHealth Labs is a division of a Chinese firm called Andon Health Co. Ltd., Reuters reported last week. And the Chinese company was awarded a $1.275 billion taxpayer-funded contract to supply the rapid tests to the U.S. government for distribution to Americans, the Defense.gov website notes.

The Biden regime was asked about the test kits this week and claimed that not all of the 500 million tests that were ordered are being manufactured by the ChiComs, but because there are not enough American-made tests to go around, the regime decided to go with iHealth (as if there are no tests made by companies located in Western-allied countries).

We are procuring as many US-made at-home tests as are available to purchase, while also purchasing additional, FDA authorized at-home tests that are made in other parts of the world, an administration official said in a statement to Fox News Digital earlier this week.

Together this ensures that we are making available as many at-home tests for the American people as possible and importantly, were doing so in a way that ensures we are not interfering with other channels where people can get at-home tests, including through their states, pharmacies and online retailers, the statement continued.

Importantly, every at-home test that is available to the American people has underwent[sic] a rigorous FDA approval process guaranteeing that it is of the highest quality, the official added.

Well, that makes all the difference then, the FDA approval. What could wrong?

China manufactured COVID-19 with U.S. taxpayer gain of function funding, thanks to Dr. Anthony Fauci; now the ChiComs are being given the opportunity to continue poisoning Americans and gathering their DNA via at-home tests for the same virus. What madness.

Wait, the COVID tests theyre shipping out via USPS are from China???!! ?  Jordan Schachtel @ dossier.substack.com (@JordanSchachtel) January 27, 2022

This news comes on the heels of stunning new details revealed in a new book by Peter Schweizer called Red Handed: How American Elites Get Rich Helping China Win, showing how deeply connected to China the Biden family really is.

We spent more than a year investigating Red Handed, and one of the most startling things we uncovered is the simple fact that the Biden family, while he was vice president of the United States and continuing when he became president, received some $31 million from Chinese individuals who are linked to the highest levels of Chinese intelligence, Schweizer said.

And under Bidens leadership, China continues to get richer and more powerful at the expense of, and risk to, Americans. What an act of treason.

Sources include:

CitizenFreePress.com

FoxNews.com
(Natural News) Del Bigtree, television producer and host of The Highwire, is being attacked by the media for comparing Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine mandates to the Holocaust. Instead of worrying, Bigtree is celebrating because the attacks prove that he was right.

On Jan. 23, Bigtree spoke to a group of approximately 40,000 people in Washington, D.C. as part of the Defeat the Mandates: An American Homecoming rally against COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

The main message of Bigtrees speech is that the media has refused to accurately cover the concerns of health freedom advocates who are against policies that force people to get vaccinated.

I want to talk to the television cameras at NBC and MSNBC and Fox and CBS, and I want to say shame on you, said Bigtree during his speech. You have a right to tell the truth. We have an oath that weve made  just like scientists and doctors made  to tell the truth. And instead, you force a lie upon the United States of America and the world.

But mainstream media outlets that covered Bigtrees speech refused to highlight this. They instead pointed their attention towards Bigtree calling for a new Nuremberg trial, one which holds journalists accountable for the suppression of life-saving information on effective early treatments during the pandemic, which experts say may have led to 500,000 deaths attributed to COVID, Bigtree said.

Unlike the Nuremberg trials that only tried those doctors that destroyed the lives of human beings, we are going to come after the press that lied to the world, that worked as a propaganda machine to push this, he continued. Your lies could not win. You only got 60 percent of this nation to take the vaccine, and most of them are under duress. That means more than 50 percent of the nation are not listening to you. (Related: Nuremberg violations: Should government vaxx agents be reclassified as enemy combatants?)

Mainstream media trying to shift focus away from message of Defeat the Mandates rally

Other prominent health freedom advocates who spoke at the Defeat the Mandates rally were also targeted by the mainstream media, including Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Instead of focusing on the content of their speeches, the press focused on the fact that they made reasonable comparisons between Americas vaccine policies and the Nazi regime.

Even in Hitlers Germany, you could cross the Alps into Switzerland, you can hide in the attic like Anne Frank did, said Kennedy in his speech during the rally. Today, the mechanisms are being put in place that will make it so none of us can run, none of us can hide.

Kennedys point was that there should be ways for those who do not want to get vaccinated to continue living as normal. The mandates and the restrictions placed upon the unvaccinated are making this situation impossible. He also pointed out the threat vaccine passports posed to privacy and bodily autonomy.

But mainstream media outlets did not make this clarification and instead quoted Kennedy referencing Anne Franks situation without context. In fact, Kennedy was attacked so heavily that he was forced to apologize.

I apologize for my reference to Anne Frank, especially to families that suffered the Holocaust horrors, he wrote in a tweet. My intention was to use examples of past barbarism to show the perils from new technologies of control. To the extent my remarks caused hurt, I am truly and deeply sorry.

More related stories:

Democrat Rep calls for quarantine to observe those refusing vaccines.

German mayor issues decree allowing antivaxx protesters to be SHOT on sight.

Biden poised to ROUND UP anti-vaccine doctors and force them into insane asylums.

British media claim stealth disease, not COVID-19 vaccines, could kill nearly 200,000 people in UK over the next five years.

Dr. Paul Marik: Hospitals are KILLING COVID-19 patients by refusing to give them life-saving medications.

Watch the Feb. 1 episode of The Highwire as Del Bigtree sends a message to the manic mainstream media outlets that covered his speech during the rally.

This video is from The Highwire with Del Bigtree channel on Brighteon.com.

For more on mainstream medias deceit, check out Journalism.news.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

NYPost.com

TimesOfIsarel.com

Twitter.com
Kate McKinnon completely transformed into Carole Baskin in the new Peacock series Joe vs. Carole.

The upcoming series chronicles Carole's feud with Joe Exotic (played by John Cameron Mitchell) and is based on Robert Moor's podcast.

'Documented animal abuser Joe Exotic  We're coming for you,' Carole said before looking down the barrel of a gun.

Wow! Kate McKinnon completely transformed into Joe's arch nemesis Carole Baskin in the new Peacock series Joe vs. Carole, which chronicles their feuding big animal zoos and is based on Robert Moor's podcast

'Does the name Joseph Maldonado-Passage mean anything to you?' one of the investigators asked Carole while visiting her home one day.

'He is a psychopath who wishes me dead,' she said to the detectives.

'We've been in an ongoing dispute with Joe,' her husband Howard said (portrayed by Kyle MacLachlan.)

'He is a psychopath who wishes me dead,' she said to the detectives

'Welcome to the best exotic animal show in these United States!' Joe screamed in grand fashion while opening another production at his Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park in Oklahoma

Meow: SNL star Kate bears a striking resemblance to Carole Baskin (right) in the series

A-list: Twin Peaks star Kyle MacLachlan is seen as Carole's husband Howard Baskin (right)

Iconic: John Cameron Mitchell transformed into the eccentric and antagonistic southern zoo owner, Joe Exotic (right) for the project

'I'm sorry, I understand this must be very hard for you,' one of the detectives told Carole as she wiped her eyes with her sleeves.

'Oh no, sorry. I'm allergic to cats,' she said.

'I really feel like I was put on this Earth to rescue cats,' Carole said while overlooking a massive sedated tiger at the veterinarians office.

'We've been in an ongoing dispute with Joe,' her husband Howard said (portrayed by Kyle MacLachlan)

'I really feel like I was put on this Earth to rescue cats,' Carole said while overlooking a massive sedated tiger at the veterinarians office

'Documented animal abuser Joe Exotic  We're coming for you,' Carole said

While Carole attempts to stop Joe from using his tigers for profit, he's fighting to expose her own hypocrisy.

'Welcome to the best exotic animal show in these United States!' Joe screamed in grand fashion while opening another production at his Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park in Oklahoma.

At one point, Joe suggested that 'someone's got to kill that b***' and even told a hitman that he has a 'job' for them.

Howard retrieved the best gun to 'stop a hitman in his tracks,' leading Carole to declare: 'It's war.'

Fighting words: At one point, Joe suggested that 'someone's got to kill that b***' and even told a hitman that he has a 'job' for them

Shopping: Howard retrieved the best gun to 'stop a hitman in his tracks,' leading Carole to declare: 'It's war'

Joe has been behind bars since 2020 when he was convicted of trying to hire two different men to kill Carole.

Just last week, a judge resentenced him to 21-years in prison  one year shorter than his original 22-year sentence.

Watch Joe vs. Carole on March 4, only on Stan in Australia.
A pair of Georgia men convicted as part of a multi-state dog-fighting and cocaine trafficking ring that spanned from north Georgia to Alabama and Florida were sentenced Tuesday, according to a release from the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Middle District of Georgia.

41-year-old Jarvis Lockett of Warner Robins pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in an animal fighting venture and cocaine distribution. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison and three years of supervised release.

51-year-old Christopher Raines of Talbotton pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in an animal fighting venture and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base. He was sentenced to a little more than 11 years in prison, five years supervised release and a $10,000 fine.

The dog-fighting ring, based in Roberta, extended into north Georgia, Florida and Alabama from May 2019 to February 2020. Law enforcement searched 15 homes and rescued 168 pit bulls in February 2020.

During the searches, law enforcement recovered cash, cocaine and evidence of dog fighting activities including veterinary penicillin, break sticks, photos of fighting dogs, a dog weight training vest, a dog fighting pit, a dog treadmill, and blood-stained carpet and walls, as well as 14 dogs at a home in Roberta.

A home in Warner Robins owned by Lockett was searched on the same day where investigators found a pit bull terrier dog that was extremely injured and lethargic with injuries that had been stapled closed.

They found medicine and supplies to treat animals for injuries sustained from dog fighting activities, a notepad containing dog names and dollar amounts, a 50-pound digital scale, paperwork from a veterinary clinic, a blender with dog food and medicine, dog breeding registration certificates and several bags of cash as the home.

Law enforcement executed a search warrant of Raines Talbotton property, recovering 41 dogs used in dog fighting.

Story continues

The dogs were malnourished with scars, hair loss and spliced ears, according to court documents. Investigators seized items used in dog fighting including a skin stapler, IV kits, veterinary medical supplies and dog breeding certificates.

As part of Raines plea agreement, he admitted he was the manager of a criminal organization and was responsible for drug transactions ranging from a quarter to 1.5 kilograms of cocaine.

Lockett had his dogs participate in fights in Macon and Melrose, Florida, according to court documents. Lockett also served as a referee for these fights. He also participated in dog fights in Taylor County, Eastman and Shiloh, receiving $16,000 for his winning dog, the release read.

His phone contained text messages between Lockett and multiple defendants that included killing an unaggressive dog, planning a dog fight and selling a female dog for $10,000. Additional text messages included discussions of purchasing $250,000 in narcotics, according to court documents. On July 10 and Sept. 12 of 2019, a confidential informant purchased cocaine from Lockett in Roberta.

Peach County Sheriff Terry Deese said when the tip came in it was initially thought to just be a handful of local people involved in a dog fighting ring.

What started out as a local investigation soon turned into a complex investigation that included people from multiple states and all walks of life, Deese said. It is impossible to comprehend just how cruel these dogs were being treated for the purpose of training them to kill.

Our team rescued 168 pit bulls during the execution of the search warrants and not the first dog acted aggressively toward the officers. The dogs just wanted attention and love. Organized dog fighting is a dark, sick and disgusting culture that has no place in our society.
North County Could See 7 Inches of Snow, Sleet

A winter storm watch is in effect in Berkshire County from Thursday, Feb.3 at 5 pm until Friday, Feb. 4 at 5 pm. The incoming could drop as much as 7 inches of snow and sleet in the Northern Berkshires

As temperatures drop Thursday night rain will transition into snow and an icy mix. Sleet and freezing rain will continue overnight. Friday morning precipitation will transition into snow. Snowfall rates could briefly approach an inch an hour.

Northern Berkshire communities could get between 3 and 7 inches of snow and sleet.

According to Steve Caporizzo, North County can expect between 4 and 8 inches of accumulation, Central County can expect between 2 and 4 inches, and South County can expect between 1 and 2 inches

The Berkshires can also expect between .1 and .25 of an inch of ice.

Emergency Declarations and Closures

Adams has set a Winter Storm Emergency declared from 6 am Thursday, Feb 3 through noon Saturday, Feb. 5.

Town Code requires that for the duration of the storm emergency:

No vehicle is permitted to park or stand unattended upon any street, highway, traveled way, or public parking lot during a storm emergency.

No vehicle is permitted to park or stand unattended on any open municipal parking lot during a storm emergency permitting the lot to be effectively cleared of snow.

Vehicles found in violation of the above parking regulations will be ticketed and towed at the vehicle owner's expense.

Clarksburg has set a a snow and ice emergency from Thursday, Feb. 3 at 6 pm through Saturday, Feb. 5 at midnight.

During this time, no on-street parking will be allowed. Those in violation will be towed at their own expense.

All Northern Berkshire School Union District schools (Clarksburg, Florida, Rowe, Savoy) will be closed Friday, Feb. 4.

In Pittsfield a snow emergency has been declared effective 7 a.m. Friday, Feb. 4, through 7 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 6.

For the duration of the snow emergency, residents are asked to use off-street parking.

If off-street parking is not available, residents may park on the street observing the following alternate side parking regulations:

Between 7 a.m. Friday and 7 a.m. Saturday: parking is allowed on the even side of the street;

Between 7 a.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. Sunday: parking is allowed on the odd side of the street; and

Residents in and around downtown Pittsfield are encouraged to use the McKay Street parking garage for overnight parking which will be open to the public free of charge starting, Friday, Feb. 4 through the duration of the emergency.

All other existing and signed parking regulations remain active. Non-permitted vehicles are prohibited from parking or standing in any open municipal parking lot between the hours of 12 a.m. and 7 a.m.

Vehicles found in violation of the above parking regulations may be towed at the vehicle owner's expense.

City residents are further advised that sidewalks and ramps abutting their property must be cleared of snow within 24-hours of the storm's end. As a reminder, it is a violation of city ordinance to plow or otherwise dispose of snow from their property onto city streets and sidewalks. Residents are also encouraged to clear snow from around fire hydrants located near their properties.

Pittsfield City Hall is also closed Friday, Feb. 4.

The Reid Middle School open house has been postponed to Feb. 8 from 5:30 to 7 pm.

The Boys & Girls Club of the Berkshires is closed for the day.

In Bennington, Vt., Southwestern Vermont Health Cares (SVHC) COVID Resource Center, located on the former Southern Vermont College campus at 981 Mansion Drive in Bennington, will be closed on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, due to the forecasted winter storm. The closure includes both outdoor testing and indoor vaccination operations. The Resource Center will re-open on Saturday, February 5.

Part 1

The New Data Coming in is VERY conflicting.

The NAM Model....Rain...More Ice...Little snow.

The 3K Model Rain-Rain-More Ice....some snow

GFS Model....rain...brief ice...then moderate to heavy snow.... pic.twitter.com/9sZjCPC2F2  Steve Caporizzo (@SteveCaporizzo) February 3, 2022
THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Twisted Sugar, a national award winning leader in freshly baked cookies and specialty sodas, announced today it is opening its first Texas location Saturday, February 5th, at Cochran's Crossing in The Woodlands at 4747 Research Forest Drive, Suite 420B.

The grand opening celebration will kick off at 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with proceeds benefiting Meals on Wheels Montgomery County, a nonprofit organization delivering nutritious meals to America's seniors enabling them to live nourished lives with independence and dignity.

20+ Varieties of Cookies Baked Daily 100+ Specialty Sodas Mixed by Our Master Mixologists

To support Meals on Wheels and join the Twisted Sugar grand opening celebration, fans can RSVP by reserving a ticket now . Ticket holders can choose between a box of Twisted Sugar's award winning cookies or three specialty sodas mixed by Twisted Sugar's master mixologists. All ticket holders will be entered into giveaway drawings throughout the day.

Ticket holders who get in line Saturday before 8:45 a.m. will be entered into a drawing to win one of three Twisted Sugar gift prizes:

Grand Prize: $250 gift card

2nd place: $200 gift card

3rd place: $100 gift card

The Woodlands debut store is family owned and run by Mr. and Mrs. Tyler and Kate Johnson of Magnolia.

"We are thrilled to open our first Twisted Sugar Texas store in The Woodlands," said Kate Johnson. "Everyone has been so warm and welcoming. They've really shown their excitement for our award winning cookies and sodas to arrive."

Twisted Sugar's menu offers 20+ varieties of freshly-baked cookies, over 100 specialty sodas, plus ice cream Twisters. The menu also offers a wide range of gluten-free cookies and sugar-free options.

Twisted Sugar will also support The Woodland's local community with a corporate cookie club for employees, corporate event catering and fundraising programs for clubs, schools, or teams.

To join the grand opening celebration this Saturday, Feb 5th and support Meals on Wheels Montgomery County click here for details .

About Twisted Sugar

Created in 2015, Twisted Sugar is a Utah based, in-house cookie bakery franchise that sells fresh baked cookies, custom sodas and ice cream smoothies throughout Utah, Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, North Carolina, Florida and Texas.

Contact

Diane Lefrandt Nelson

[email protected]

801-357-9159

SOURCE Twisted Sugar-Texas
A worker runs mail-in-ballots through a sorting machine at the Santa Clara County in California





A review from Washington's state auditor office released Tuesday indicated that counties in the state were more likely to reject ballots cast by younger voters, men and people of color.

"Researchers suggest possible explanations for higher ballot rejection rates, such as frequent signature changes among young voters or language barriers for particular racial and ethnic groups," the audit said.

The report, which was requested by state lawmakers, showed that less than 1 percent of votes cast in the 2020 general election were rejected.

In order for auditors to determine race and ethnicity, Scott Frank, who serves as director of performance and IT audit for the office, told The Seattle Times a predictive algorithm from RAND Corporation was used. That method combines demographic data from the census with information such as surnames that have a high likelihood of being associated with particular racial and ethnic groups.

For large data sets, Frank said, "When you combine those two pieces of information, you can make a pretty good prediction."

The report cited three main reasons why a voter's ballot could be rejected, including arriving after the deadline, signatures that are not verifiable or signatures that were missing from the ballot envelope all together.

The audit focused on the latter two reasons and said despite the higher likelihood for certain racial and ethnic groups to be rejected, it found "few discernible patterns that helped explain differences in rejection rates" and no evidence of bias in a county's acceptance or rejection of ballots.

Overall, the review examined a random sample of 7,200 ballots cast with a signature analyzing software and found "that 98.7% of county decisions were appropriate."
A committee tasked with setting pay rates for elected tribal leaders said it will increase base salaries by an average of 26% per year over th
(Natural News) The Deep State is always working to subvert our democracy by constantly planning ahead, such as the complete militarization of our society.

When the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic began, we made heroes out of our frontline medical staff. Doctors, nurses, X-ray and other technicians, EMS personnel, firefighters, and so forth, anyone who responded to our healthcare needs were lionized (and rightfully so). They literally put their lives on the line for all of us because, at the time, there were no known treatments for the virus and Americans were dying left and right.

But after we were blessed with worthless vaccines, suddenly those frontline medical workers and staff were demonized and fired if they refused to take a jab (after literally working without vaccines for a year). Hospitals and health care facilities around the country have been firing staff after they refused the jabs. Other healthcare workers and medical providers fed up with the tyranny and already overworked simply left the field altogether.

The result: Major shortages of hospital and clinic staff that are now being filled, increasingly, with U.S. military personnel so that the powers that be can further militarize our society by getting us used to seeing troops in as many common roles as possible.

The Epoch Times reported: Idaho Gov. Brad Little on Monday, January 31, activated his states National Guard due to staffing shortages at several state agencies. The 75 or so Guard members will be used to assist Primary Health and the Idaho Department of Correction, which are both experiencing staffing shortages due to COVID-19 absences, his office said in a statement. Little said he secured about 500 additional personnel to assist state hospitals dealing with COVID-19 cases.

The strain on health care, schools, business, and government from the spread of COVID-19 is a reminder that we are not out of the pandemic, and we need to be vigilant about keeping ourselves and our loved ones healthy, Little, a Republican, said in a statement.

At present, Idaho does not have a vaccine mandate for any state agency and recently joined more than two dozen GOP states in a lawsuit against the Biden regimes COVID vaccine and testing requirement for businesses with 100 or more employees, which was disallowed by the U.S. Supreme Court.

While that rule has been blocked, justices in a 5-4 decision left in place a federal mandate allowing the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to withhold taxpayer funds from healthcare facilities that dont require employees to be vaccinated. And unlike the OSHA rule that was overturned, staffers at healthcare facilities are not permitted to opt out of the vaccine by submitting to weekly testing.

I am proud of our men and women of the Idaho National Guard who have stepped up time and again to help our state and communities get through an unprecedented, challenging time, Little also said earlier. The strain on healthcare, schools, business and government from the spread of COVID-19 is a reminder that we are not out of the pandemic, and we need to be vigilant about keeping ourselves and our loved ones healthy.

But obviously, this self-imposed crisis is working to the benefit of the authoritarian Deep State, which is working to get the American people accustomed to seeing uniformed and, when possible, armed troops regularly deployed in American cities and communities.

At Primary Health Group, Idahos largest independent family medicine and urgent care provider, the National Guard staffers will help clinics provide COVID-19 tests to more patients, CEO Dr. David Peterman said in an interview.

To demonstrate how pervasive this effort has become, the Epoch Times noted that 48 states and three U.S. territories have now deployed Guard troops to fill healthcare staffing vacancies, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an organization that is also working to normalize the militarization of society.

The troops have driven school buses, staffed hospital kitchens, helped to care for nursing home residents, triaged emergency room patients and held COVID-19 vaccine clinics, the news outlet added.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

Gov.Idaho.gov

NewsTarget.com
The president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN, Emeka Rollas, has dissociated the guild from the Nollywood actors who visited the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader, Bola Tinubu.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how after months of speculation, Mr Tinubu formally declared his intention to run for the countrys presidency in 2023.

He disclosed this to journalists after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja on January 10.

In November 2021, Nollywood actor John Okafor (Mr Ibu), alongside his colleagues like Foluke Daramola, Harry Anyanwu, and Benedict Johnson, drummed support for Mr Tinubus presidential ambition.

Although the APC party stalwart was yet to declare his ambition at the time officially, Mr Ibu and his colleagues drummed support for him nonetheless.

The occasion was a meeting themed South West Stands with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu while the actors unanimously argued that Tinubu had impacted the people.

Several backlashes greeted a viral video clip from the proceedings from Nigerians who faulted the actors partisan alliances. Mr Anyanwu was caught on camera saying, one-day Asiwaju will rule Nigeria.

AGN reacts

On Thursday, Mr Rollas, who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES, said that the guild is not partisan and has no political affiliation.

Let me make this clear; actors are not supposed to be political, more especially when two or three actors are gathered.They should not be following a politician, and they should gather and do their own business, which is filmmaking.

Although the infamous endorsement occurred in November 2021, the AGN was forced to issue a statement condemning the visit after a controversial Portharcourt-based pastor, Kassy Chukwu recently reigned curses on the actors for visiting Mr Tinubu.

In the viral video, the cleric could be heard condemning the actors, saying their endorsement of the APC chieftain would be their end.

Reacting to Mr Chukwus call out, the AGN frowned at the clerics remarks. According to the statement signed by the AGN national task force chairman, McSmith Ochendo, on Wednesday, the guild stated that the AGN is a non-political and non-profit making association.

The statement read: Our attention has been drawn to a trending video of one Apostle Kassy Chukwu the self-acclaimed oracle of the nation. In the video, Apostle Kassy @kassychukwu_official could be seen throwing curses and casting aspersions on some members of the Actors Guild of Nigeria who paid a courtesy visit to Senator Bola. Ahmed Tinubu.

He went further to deride Nollywood industry, a sector that contributes over five per cent to the nations GDP.

This is very offensive and demeaning to the Actors Guild of Nigeria. The individual actors who visited Senator Ahmed bola Tinubu do not represent the Actors Guild of Nigeria. As individual actors, they are at liberty to visit, promote and even endorse whoever they deem fit to occupy the highest office in the land.

Actors Guild of Nigeria is a non-political and non-profit making Association. It is an individuals prerogative to support whoever they deem, and it is not enough for one so-called man of God to admonish and call out the whole of NOLLYWOOD and their families.

It baffles us that a man who claims to be a servant of God could be seen throwing curses on members and families of the entire Nollywood. It is highly defamatory. We call on CAN/PFN and all other Christian bodies to call this nescience Pastor and his Luciferous preaching to order. Enough is enough. NB. NO MAN HAS THE MONOPOLY OF CYBERBULLYING.
Also, though not discussed in detail in the updated guidelines, the newest treatment with what are known as biologics is heralding new forms of personalized therapy for patients with severe asthma that is not well-controlled by other, albeit cheaper, remedies. Biologics are drugs made from modified molecules from the cells of live organisms designed to target specific disease pathways that culminate in asthma symptoms.

The last 13 years have seen an explosion of new strategies, new concepts, new understanding of mechanism, new drugs and new treatments, Dr. Wechsler said in an interview. In just the last five years, five new drugs have been approved for treating asthma.

The new guidelines can be especially helpful for people being treated for asthma, mild or severe, that is now not adequately controlled. More than half of asthma patients are treated by primary care doctors, with referrals to specialists like pulmonologists or allergists when their condition is severe or doesnt respond well to treatment, said Dr. Michelle M. Cloutier, professor emerita at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine who chaired the expert panel.

Asthma afflicts about 25 million people in the United States, including 5.5 million children. It is not an infection, although the body reacts as if an enemy had attacked it. Rather, asthma is a chronic respiratory disease in people whose airways become inflamed in response to various triggering substances or behaviors. The inflamed airways swell and narrow and the muscles surrounding them tighten, causing a bronchospasm. Unless the bronchospasm is quickly reversed, it can become very difficult to breathe and result in hospitalization or death.
Kansas lawmakers are weighing a provision to block a state board's ability to investigate doctors, including Sen. Mark Steffen, R-Hutchinson, who promote the use of ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19.

Kansas lawmakers are weighing a provision to block a state board's ability to investigate doctors, including a state legislator, who promote the use of ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19.

Under language added to the Board of Healing Arts budget Tuesday, the agency, which regulates and licenses doctors in Kansas, would not be able to spend state funds to investigate or discipline a doctor for prescribing a Food and Drug Administration-approved drug for off-label use.

Legislators said it was directly related to an investigation into Sen. Mark Steffen, R-Hutchinson. An anesthesiologist, Steffen revealed last week that he is under investigation by the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts.

Steffen's remarks came during a hearing on a bill he is promoting that, among other things, would statutorily block the healing arts board from investigating health care workers in connection to COVID-19.

More: Senator under health board investigation calls KU doctor 'Kansas Dr. Fauci' as COVID rates worsen

The provision is part of a larger attempt to promote off-label use of ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine to treat or prevent the coronavirus disease.

"I am under investigation by the board for a year and a half now," Steffen said. "They clearly have no interest in resolving it. They're using it to hold over me to think they're going to silence me, as I serve as a state senator. Obviously, that's not working out for them."

The exact nature of the investigation into Steffen remains unclear, although it appears to predate his public endorsement of ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine.

Budget language to target Steffen investigation, hamstring Board of Healing Arts

Rep. Jesse Burris, R-Mulvane, introduced the language in the House Higher Education Budget Committee Tuesday, citing the example of Steffen, as well as a physician of a Kansas House member, who were under investigation.

"Im very concerned the board is unfairly targeting certain physicians," Burris said. "And just in the interest of Kansans getting all the treatment options that are available and in the interest that the board isnt intimidating physicians or hamstringing them or preventing them from presenting all available options, I offer this amendment."

Story continues

Steffen said he was not involved in the effort to craft the amendment but said he was supportive of the effort, calling pushback to the use of ivermectin and other drugs from the medical community a "crime against humanity."

"I think (the amendment) represents the tsunami of civil unrest coming at the Board of Healing Arts and the healthcare community," Steffen said in an interview Thursday. "I think they have gotten way out of control."

Rep. Susan Humphries, R-Wichita, who chairs the Higher Education Budget Committee, said she was initially unaware that Steffen was under investigation, instead saying the proposal was brought about because of an investigation into a doctor of Rep. Trevor Jacobs, R-Fort Scott.

She said there was concern the Board of Healing Arts was being political by wading into the issue of prescribing ivermectin for COVID-19.

"If they're making it a political statement, should we have a political response," Humphries told reporters. "I'm not sure, but off-label prescription is very common and so, if there is an investigation into a particular medication that seems political, then that is where shedding some light and just asking the question could be helpful."

Kansas lawmakers are weighing a provision to block a state board's ability to investigate doctors, including a state legislator, who promote the use of ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19.

Board of Healing Arts regulations say the board can take disciplinary action if a "licensee has prescribed, sold, administered, distributed or given a controlled substance to any person for other than medically accepted or lawful purposes."

Rachelle Colombo, executive director of the Kansas Medical Society, noted that off-label prescriptions are regularly written by doctors for a variety of purposes.

But whether a script is out-of-bounds is determined by whether it runs afoul of the medical standard of care, or whether another competent doctor would have reached the same decision based on the set of facts and resources available.

"The concern is if we inappropriately shield certain aspects of medicine, what we are doing is legitimizing bad practice," Colombo said. "And that is a problem because it doesn't protect the public. The majority of physicians, those folks I represent, don't believe in that. They say, 'Hold me to the highest standard.'"

Other members of both parties expressed concern that the budget amendment would be setting a dangerous precedent and would potentially create a conflict where state rules could bar a practice that could not be investigated. Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, appeared to join Democrats on the committee in opposing the language's inclusion.

Lawmakers noted the broad nature of the proposal could apply to off-label drugs for a range of conditions, not just COVID-19.

More: Resignation letter doesn't reveal why former KDHE Secretary Lee Norman quit last year

"I think were opening up a big can of worms here and we are tying the hands of the Board of Healing Arts if we proceed with this," said Rep. Mike Amyx, D-Lawrence. "Anytime we have the opportunity or complaints are filed, I think we need to allow the process to work. My opinion, is this places us in a pretty awkward position without the investigation being done."

House Speaker Ron Ryckman, R-Olathe, said he was tracking the proposal but would leave it up to the entire House Appropriations Committee to render a verdict on its merits. The chair of that panel, Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, declined comment on the matter, via a staffer.

"We'll see what the actions are in appropriations," Ryckman told reporters Thursday. "I think more information, more detail, more rationale will have to happen first and I think that will happen in (committee)."

The Board of Healing Arts budget is set to be considered Monday in the House Appropriations Committee, with potential action on the item coming at that time.

Proposal comes amid Kansas bill to expand ivermectin prescription

The provision comes amid a broader debate about the use of ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine, among others, which have not proven to be effective against COVID-19 and are not recommended by health authorities.

This has not stopped a push at allowing doctors more freedom in prescribing the treatments, however.

Steffen's bill would bar the board from disciplining for any "recommendation, prescription, use or opinion of a prescriber or pharmacist related to a treatment for COVID-19, including a treatment that is not recommended." It would be retroactive to March 2020.

More: Kansas bill would force pharmacists to fill ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine as off-label COVID treatment

In written testimony, the healing arts board insinuated that the bill would block the board's mission of protecting the public. It also warned that the bill would not require physicians to adhere to the standard of care and standards of professional conduct when prescribing off-label drugs.

Five drugs are available under the National Institutes of Health treatment guidelines for COVID-19 to treat non-hospitalized adults with COVID-19 who are at high risk for worsening disease. Those are Paxlovid, Sotrovimab, Remdesivir, Molnupiravir and, in special circumstances, the corticosteroid dexamethasone.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas Legislature weighs halt to doctor investigations on ivermectin
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) India on Thursday described the allegation that it is trying to scuttle the confirmation of the acceptance of Pakistan's ambassador-designate to the United States Masood Khan as "preposterous".

"It is preposterous to blame a third country for the delay in the appointment of an ambassador from one country to another," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at a media briefing.

Also Read | Rajasthan Horror: Minor Girl From Ratlam Raped By Man On Pretext Of Marrying Her In Banswara; Case Registered.

His comments came when asked about Pakistan's allegation that India was instrumental in blocking Khan's confirmation by the US.

Khan, who served as the "president" of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) until August last year, was nominated as Pakistan's ambassador to the US in November. He is still awaiting confirmation from the Biden administration.

Also Read | Param Pravega: India Gets New Supercomputer, the Most Powerful So Far.

A US Congressman has urged President Joe Biden to reject Pakistan's nomination and described Khan as a "bona fide terrorist sympathiser" working to undermine America's interests in the region.

To a separate question on a new proposal by the Pakistan Hindu Council to allow pilgrims to travel to India by air, Bagchi suggested that it has to be discussed under the framework of the India-Pakistan protocol of 1974 on visits to religious shrines.

"Visits by pilgrims to religious sites are governed by the 1974 bilateral protocol between India and Pakistan and such visits are facilitated regularly. In 2021, visits by 3,500 pilgrims were facilitated under the protocol.

"We have noted interests on both sides to expand the agreed lists of such shrines and the mode of travel. This would need to be mutually agreed upon under the protocol," he said.

Bagchi said India has sent an official response to Pakistan's recommendation on the matter.

He added that given the current restrictions on movement and gatherings in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the two sides can use the time to hold discussions under the bilateral protocol.

It is learnt that the proposal by the Pakistan Hindu Council was sent to the MEA by the Pakistan High Commission in India.

Asked about a Pakistani billionaire's reported comment that India-Pakistan back-channel contacts are still on, Bagchi declined to respond to remarks by a private individual.

On Pakistan's readiness to host the SAARC summit, he said there was "no material change" for India to change its position on the matter.

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional bloc comprising India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

SAARC has not been very effective since 2016 as its biennial summits have not taken place since the last one in Kathmandu in 2014.

The 2016 SAARC Summit was to be held in Islamabad, but after a terrorist attack on an Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in it due to the "prevailing circumstances".

The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
(Natural News) A viral video compiled using the Defense Medical Epidemiology Database (DMED) showed a sharp increase in the number of illnesses in the U.S. military presumably due to the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine.

DMED is similar to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), except that it pertains only to Department of Defense (DOD) personnel, with medical providers putting information into the system.

Attorney Thomas Renz referenced the database during a panel discussion recently hosted by Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson. According to Renz, three whistleblowers said that post-vaccination miscarriages and cancers were up 300 percent over the past year, and neurological disorders increased ten-fold among DOD personnel.

I have declarations from all three [that] this data is under penalty of perjury. We intend to submit this to the courts, Renz said.

A video breakdown produced by a military whistleblower group that includes active duty chief warrant officers backs up Renzs claims that adverse reactions have been increasing since the government began the vaccine rollout. (Related: Excess deaths soaring in every country where covid vaccine uptake is high: data.)

Screenshots from the video also showed a 269 percent increase in acute myocardial infarctions or heart attacks, 285 percent increase in acute myocarditis, 467 percent increase in pulmonary embolism, 1,175 percent in disseminated intravascular coagulation or blood clotting, 590 percent increase in HIV cases, 1,529 percent increase in chest pain issues, 905 percent increase in dyspnea or breathing difficulty and startling increases in other illnesses, such as Bells Palsy, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, menstrual issues, spontaneous abortions or miscarriages and cancers.

Renz shared with commentator Daniel Horowitz that a cancer epidemic is sweeping through the military, with the number of cancer diagnoses in the DMED system going from a five-year-average of 38,700 per year to 114,645 in the first 11 months of 2021, despite the militarys predominantly young population.

Military denies data

Despite the numbers presented, military officials deny the data, insisting that the figures were wrong and resulted from a glitch in the database. The post was also flagged by Facebook as part of their efforts to combat fake news and misinformation.

Peter Graves, the spokesperson for the Defense Health Agencys Armed Forces Surveillance Division, said that they found that the data was incorrect for the years 2016-2020.

Officials insist that they compared the numbers in the DMED with source data and found that the total number of medical diagnoses from the previous years represented only a fraction of actual medical diagnoses while the 2021 numbers were up-to-date, giving the appearance of significant increased occurrences of adverse effects due to underreported data from 2016 to 2020.

However, as Horowitz pointed out, unlike VAERS where anyone can submit unverified information, DMED is only by military doctors and quantifies every single ICD code in the military for billing, making it clearly defined in a finite population with excellent surveillance. (Related: Dr. Lee Merritt tells Dr. Alan Keyes: Effective COVID treatments are suppressed to continue push for vaccines  Brighteon.TV.)

One of the biggest takeaways here is that the data is beyond reproach and widely accessible by the DOD, CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention], FDA [Food and Drug Administration], and across the Biden-Harris regime. In other words, they are all very well aware that the jabs are almost certainly causing an untenable increase in cancer in otherwise young and healthy military-age Americans and theyre keeping that information away from the people, Horowitz said.

DOD suspends civilian COVID vaccine mandates

As for the vaccine-hesitant, the DOD is now pausing disciplinary actions for their civilian employees who remain unvaccinated. A federal judge recently ruled that the Biden administration does not have legal standing to enforce a mandate for federal employees.

The DOD has not yet released its firing policy or disciplining process for any of its 950,000 civilian employees who refused the vaccine, although exemption requests have been processed. While the Pentagon has not yet released its numbers of unvaccinated civilians, data shows that more than 340,000 have been vaccinated through the DOD.

More related stories:

Dr. Sherri Tenpenny: COVID-19 vaccines are NOT vaccines but genetic modification technologies.

COVID vaccine mandates are not doing anything to help the pandemic, says Dr. Richard Urso  Brighteon.com.

THE DIE-OFF IS HERE: Life insurance payouts skyrocket 258% as post-vaccine deaths rapidly accelerate.

Hidden Pfizer trial data shows that ALL vaccinated women in pregnancy lost their unborn babies.

Nuremberg violations: Should government vaxx agents be reclassified as enemy combatants?

Watch the video below to learn more about the adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccine.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

Follow Pandemic.news for more updates related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Sources include:

InfoWars.com

TheLibertyDaily.com

PolitiFact.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is shifting gears from trying to force the nations employees to wear a face mask to trying to protect them against climate change on the jobsite.

The federal agency claims that climate change poses a serious threat to the nations workers both now and in the future, and that new restrictions need to be imposed as a remedy.

The current situation will worsen as the United States gets hotter, so heat standards must protect workers from current heat hazards and the future effects of climate change, said the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

Heat hurts outdoor and indoor workers across every major industry, so OSHAs heat safety standard needs to protect all workers  not just those at the hottest outdoor worksites, the agency explained in an announcement.

The NRDC went on in a statement to explain that:

After many years of advocacy by labor, faith, health, environmental, and other leaders, the Biden administration announced last September that OSHA would begin working on a federal heat injury and illness prevention standard.

Will climate change become the new covid?

It turns out that excess heat on the jobsite is already loosely regulated by OSHA under a vague part of federal law called the General Duty Clause. This is why there is already a federal occupational heat safety standard in place.

Now, the Biden regime wants to create new federal heat injury and illness prevention standards that include a legally enforceable set of heat-related requirements for employers to follow.

Employees in hot and humid Florida, for instance, would require special heat remediation accommodations while winter workers in Maine would need special warmth accommodations. These kinds of things make sense, right?

The problem is that the sky is the limit in terms of what would constitute a climate change-related job injury or death, much like how many deaths over the past two years were categorized as covid deaths even when they were caused by something else.

It is not far-fetched to assume that any time the climate is deemed to be changing, under new proposed rules, an employer would need to make special accommodations or else be held liable for a climate-related injury or death on the job site.

The regime is already claiming that global warming is causing workers to miss wages, for instance, suffer debilitating injuries, and prematurely die. To fix this, OSHA under Biden, plans to use multiple data sources to come up with solutions.

Given how the wacky world of government bureaucracy works, it may not be long before OSHA will be monitoring climate change illness in workers and recording climate change as a cause on death certificates for workers compensation, commented Marc Morano of Climate Depot.

Or OSHA could morph into implementing personal carbon footprint limits on all employees by monitoring their energy usage.

It turns out that the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, a research agency created by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, first recommended heat safety standards in 1972. These standards are not necessarily a bad thing, as they aimed to:

 prevent acute or chronic heat disorders and illnesses and heat induced unsafe acts, and will reduce the risk of harmful effects due to the interactions between excessive heat and toxic chemicals and physical agents.

What is a bad thing are the next steps under Biden, which will politicize OSHA even more and steer its policies towards embracing the politics of global warming and climate change  and imposing those politics on Americas employers.

More related news about the bloated federal government and its pet projects can be found at Corruption.news.

Sources for this article include:

ClimateDepot.com

NaturalNews.com
Adam Kingzinger (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Illinois Republican Representative Adam Kinzinger has called Missouri Senator Josh Hawley one of the worst human beings after he asked the president to abandon support for Ukraine to join Nato.

The senator sent a letter to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the matter: We must do less in those secondary theatres, he wrote in the letter, stating that the US should concentrate more on China.

I hate to be so personal, but Hawley is one of the worst human beings, and a self-aggrandizing con artist, Mr Kinzinger wrote on Twitter on Wednesday.

When Trump goes down I certainly hope this evil will be layed in the open for all to see, and be ashamed of.

When asked about the letter, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Mr Hawley was parroting Russian talking points, and is not aligned with long-standing bipartisan American values.

Mr Hawley responded on Twitter. This from an Administration that has coddled Russia from Day One and now brought Europe to the brink of war - giving the Russians Nord Stream 2, refusing Ukraine military aid last year, and conducting a disastrous evacuation of Afghanistan that emboldened our enemies worldwide, he said.

Russia has stationed tens of thousands of troops along the Ukrainian border and an invasion looms amid diplomatic talks. Russia has issued security demands to the US and Nato that Ukraine is refused entry into the military alliance.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will visit Chhattisgarh's Raipur today to lay the foundation stone of 'Amar Jawan Jyoti' and inaugurate Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhumiheen Krishi Mazduur Yojana. According to an official statement, Amar Jawan Jyoti will be constructed on the premises of the 4th Battalion, Chhattisgarh Armed Forces Mana, Raipur. The flame of Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti will continue to be lit in honour of the martyrs. "We will honour the martyrdom of the sons of Chhattisgarh who sacrificed their lives for the country by joining uniformed services, as well as the Bravehearts of the country who sacrificed their lives in Chhattisgarh through 'Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti'," said Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. A wall with names of Martyrs, memorial tower and VVIP platform will also be set up at Amar Jawan Jyoti in Chhattisgarh. The wall will be constructed with brown marble with the names of Martyrs engraved on the same. This crescent-shaped wall will be about 25 feet high having a length of about 100 feet, and the thickness of this wall will be 3 feet. The memorial tower will be set up of sandstone, brown white marble granite in front of a crescent-shaped wall. A memento will be made on its top. Rifle and helmet will be in the form of insignia on the base in front of the memorial tower. The flame of Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti will be lit in front of this symbol which will be ignited 24 hours by fuel supply through underground pipelines. A fort-like two-storey building will be constructed just in front of the memorial tower, the length of the base of which will be 150 feet and the width will be 90 feet. The height of this building will be 40 feet. Gandhi will also inaugurate the Chhattisgarh government's Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhumiheen Krishi Mazduur Yojana. Under this scheme, the Chhattisgarh government will give annual financial aid of Rs 6000 to rural landless families. The registration for the scheme was started last year in September. (ANI)
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Veterans Prostate Cancer Awareness (VPCa) will host their inaugural gala event "Make Blue the New Pink" on Friday, February 4, 2022, aboard the USS Midway historical naval aircraft carrier museum located in San Diego, CA.

VPCa hosts their 'Make Blue the New Pink' Gala event aboard the USS Midway in San Diego, CA to raise awareness for increased number of prostate cancer diagnoses in Veteran men, who have significantly higher diagnoses than general population. Just as pink ribbon awareness is synonymous with breast cancer, we hope to increase the recognition of blue ribbon awareness for prostate cancer as a similar symbol. Numbers of prostate cancer diagnoses are almost equal to those of breast cancer. Founder, Mike 'Bing' Crosby's personal journey with prostate cancer and his experience with the Phoenix VHA Medical Center in 2014 and 2015. Mr. Crosby graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Science. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School "TOPGUN" and the NATO Allied Air Forces Central Europe "Tactical Leadership Program." Crosby has logged over 3,000 hours in multiple tactical jet aircraft.

The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of the increasing prostate cancer diagnoses in Veteran men within the U.S., who have nearly a 40% higher incidence rate than the general population. The goal of the VPCa is to change the course, with testing and treatment through awareness campaigns, legislative action, and by bringing industry experts together to promote the latest technologies available for the treatment and cure of prostate cancer to health care providers.

This year's theme, "Make Blue the New Pink" was designed to bring attention to the reality that prostate cancer diagnoses are increasing, and nearing the number of breast cancer diagnoses. Just as pink ribbon awareness is synonymous with breast cancer, we hope to increase the recognition of blue ribbon awareness for prostate cancer as a similar symbol.

The evening -- which is open to the media -- will begin with a VIP reception at 6:30 p.m. PST followed by the full gala program starting at 7:30 p.m. PST. This event will be safely hosted in an open-air hanger.

Current speakers include:

Dr. Matthew Rettig , Professor of Medicine and Urology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA

, Professor of Medicine and Urology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at Marianne Gandee , Vice President, Patient Solutions & Alliances, Pfizer Oncology

, Vice President, Patient Solutions & Alliances, Pfizer Oncology Bela S. Denes , MD, Vice President of Global Medical Affairs at Lantheus Medical Imaging

, MD, Vice President of Global Medical Affairs at Lantheus Medical Imaging Dr. John Feller , Chief Medical Officer, Halo Diagnostics & U.S. Airforce Veteran

, Chief Medical Officer, Halo Diagnostics & U.S. Airforce Veteran Elizabeth Kennard , Senior Director Marketing Americas, Accuray

Special appearances expected to include honorable Veteran heroes, industry leaders, and government representatives.

Funding and support provided by Pfizer Oncology, Lantheus and Accuray. Additional partners for this inspirational evening include Halo Diagnostics, Janssen Oncology, Tolmar, Blue Earth Diagnostics, Dendreon, SpaceOAR Hydrogel, Perineologic, Bayer, and Profound Medical.

About VPCA:

Veterans Prostate Cancer Awareness (VPCa) is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives by promoting prostate cancer awareness, education, and solutions among the Veteran population and active-duty military members.

VPCa is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization formed in December 2016 through Founder, Mike 'Bing' Crosby's personal journey with prostate cancer and his experience with the Phoenix VHA Medical Center in 2014 and 2015. Mr. Crosby graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Science. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School "TOPGUN" and the NATO Allied Air Forces Central Europe "Tactical Leadership Program." Crosby has logged over 3,000 hours in multiple tactical jet aircraft, including the F-14, F/A-18, B-1B, Mirage 2000, Tornado GR1, Harrier, F-15, and F-16N.

Digital Assets:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cRYYdTsI9VXd1Ls9V8KM6UUD_4UYRpz7?usp=sharing

Media Contact:

Amy Koenig

[email protected]

www.veteransprostatecancer.org

530-927-8032

SOURCE Veterans Prostate Cancer Awareness
This article is part of the On Tech newsletter. Here is a collection of past columns.

Every few months, I concoct new ways to say that tech giants make a lot of money. Today, I give up.

Ill just say that Big Tech companies are really, really, really, really big and really, really, really, really, REALLY rich.

Thats even true of the company that we know as Facebook, which ran into a financial brick wall on Wednesday. This might be the end of Facebook as we know it  maybe!  but the company is likely to keep churning out fat profits for years.
Nigerian stocks found resilience Thursday after yielding a little ground at the Wednesday session as the benchmark index jumped 0.85 per cent, setting equities on course for another week of positive return.

Oil company Oando led the comeback on the back of the exuberance in the investing community that followed the disclosure that it would hold first annual general meeting since 2019 when capital market watchdog Securities and Exchange Commission barred it from doing so.

Helping gains, industrial powerhouse Dangote Cement, which recently completed another round of share buyback, surged to N4.7 trillion in value.

But that was still inadequate to reclaim the glory it lost to Airtel Africa, which displaced it to become Nigerias most capitalised company at N4.8 trillion valuation a couple of days back.

This week, we expect the market to maintain its bullish momentum as investors continue to take positions in anticipation of the forthcoming end-of-year releases, United Capital said in its outlook note for this week.

Market breadth, which gauges investors sentiment towards trade, closed in the positive as 23 advancers were recorded in contrast to 19 decliners.

The all-share index climbed 399.14 basis points to 47,329.80, while market capitalisation scaled up to N25.5 trillion.

Nigerians stocks are up by 10.8 per cent so far this year.

TOP FIVE GAINERS

Oando topped the gainers chart, appreciating by 10 per cent to close at N10. Academy added 9.73 per cent to end trade at N1.24. SCOA advanced by 9.62 per cent to N1.14.

Lasaco rose to N1.08, notching up 8 per cent. RT Briscoe completed the top 5, climbing up by 7.69 to N0.28.

TOP FIVE LOSERS

Pharma-Deko led laggards, declining by 10 to close at N1.98. Champion Breweries shed 8.70 per cent to end trade at N2.10.

Ikeja Hotel fell to N1.33, losing 6.99 per cent. Unity Bank slumped to N0.51, recording 3.77 per cent depreciation. Unity Bank closed at N0.26, going down by 3.70 per cent.

TOP FIVE TRADES

A total of 346.7 million shares valued at N3.8 billion were traded in 4,952 deals.

Fidelity Bank was the most active stock with 55.9 million units of its shares worth N160.3 million exchanging hands in 228 deals.

FBN Holdings traded 28 million shares priced at N318 million in 158 transactions. GTCO had 21.3 million shares valued at N585 million traded in 261 deals.

Transcorp traded 20.4 million shares estimated at N23.1 million in 121 transactions. oANDO traded 18.4 million shares valued at N92.5 million in 359 deals.
Megan Kinney still becomes emotional when she talks about the tribute that inspired her novel, Dakota Peace.

Kinney is married to a South Dakota state trooper. In 2011, when the couple attended the funeral for Rapid City Police Officers Nick Armstrong and Ryan McCandless, Kinney was deeply moved by the Last Call. During that ceremonial farewell, a police dispatcher calls the officers numbers, thanks them for their service, and lets them know they can rest in peace.

As they listened, Kinneys husband, Kevin, told her the dispatcher making the Last Call was the same person who took the initial call when Armstrong and McCandless were killed in the line of duty. Kinney was in awe.

That took such courage to do that, Kinney said.

Kinneys curiosity about police dispatchers was sparked. She began doing research about dispatchers and the post-traumatic stress they endure from their jobs. Her research inspired the main character in her first published novel, Dakota Peace.

The novel centers around an emergency dispatcher, Natalia Brynner, who is looking for some distance from her stressful job and life. She winds up stranded in western South Dakota. She soon encounters a state trooper and gets embroiled in a foster childs kidnapping case. Dakota Peace is available through Amazon or Kinneys website, megankinney.net. Kinneys two earlier self-published novels also are available on her website for subscribers to her newsletter.

Having her first novel professionally published is a dream come true for Kinney, a lifelong Rapid City resident. This month, as she celebrates the second anniversary of "Dakota Peace" being published, Kinney is working on the final draft of a companion novel, Dakota Courage, which will be released in September.

Her novels blend real and imagined locations in South Dakota with Kinneys experiences as the wife of a highway patrolman and a longtime foster parent. Kinney and her husband were foster parents for several years. In addition to having their own daughter, the Kinneys ultimately adopted three sisters who were their foster children.

We all really wanted (to adopt). Wed had them for two years. We were all very attached to them and they were attached to us, Kinney said of transitioning from a foster family to an adoptive family. It was a huge blessing to adopt them.

The Kinneys' oldest daughter has just graduated from high school, is an artist who loves anime and writes graphic novels. Kinney homeschools her three youngest daughters, and she eventually hopes to make writing her full-time career.

I do get up early and started in the morning when the kids are still sleeping, Kinney said. You just have to make it a priority.

Dakota Courage tells the story of one of the minor characters in Dakota Peace.

So many times Im writing a book and theres a minor character that just speaks to me. I wonder what her story would be, Kinney said. In Dakota Peace, theres a foster mom who kidnaps a foster child, so Dakota Courage follows her story after that.  Sometimes you really dont know where these children are going and its hard (as a foster mom).

The novel picks up with the foster mom after shes convicted of second-degree kidnapping and shes trying to put her life together and shes running an antique shop in Sturgis, Kinney said.

Dakota Courage tackles another real-life topic that Kinney is concerned about  human trafficking. After attending a couple of presentations about human trafficking, she wanted to incorporate the issue into Dakota Courage," and she researched the topic further with the help of a local expert.

During the Sturgis bike rally, (the main character) runs into some human trafficking victims and (shes) finding a way to help them, Kinney said.

Kinney has discovered it takes a village to write a book. Her husband has helped with her research, and Kinney is thrilled that people in the community have been willing to answer questions and help.

Its been exciting to do this and finally have my dreams fulfilled, she said.

Despite being an atrocious speller because of dyslexia, Kinney said shes always had an active imagination and shes loved writing since she was a child. Though she earned a degree in psychology and worked in campus ministry, writing remained her passion.

You can do whatever you want. You can be whoever you want (when writing a book), Kinney said. You can jump into that world for such a short time and safely go in there.

Kinney took writing classes and in 2018, she attended a writers conference where she decided she would try pitching Dakota Peace to a publisher. To her delight, LPC Books liked it and gave her a contract.

Kinney said shes continually reading about how to write and working on her craft.

Its a lot more work than I thought it was going to be. You have to put the work into it. Its not about talent. Its about continuing to learn and putting lots of hard work into it. A great imagination isnt enough, she laughed. Theres always so much to learn  to get better."

After Dakota Courage is published, Kinney said she has an idea for another companion book to Dakota Peace and Dakota Courage.
A well-known and widely respected trumpet player from Louisiana was fatally shot after trying to protect his daughter and grandson.

Brian Murray, 60, from the Little Woods area of New Orleans, was allegedly gunned down by Edmond Ramee Sr, following a domestic row between his daughter and her ex partner.

According to an arrest warrant affidavit, first obtained by People, Mr Murray brought his daughter and grandson (who is aged just one,) to his home after the heated argument took place.

However, at around 3.2pm, Mr Ramee Sr is said to have appeared at Mr Murrays home, and kicked in the glass of a screen door. He then reached into a room, grabbed his son, and promptly walked away.

The affidavit stated that he then returned to the house, while still carrying his young son, to fire shots at Mr Murray, who was hit several times.

Mr Ramee Sr initially fled the scene, but on Monday he handed himself in at a local police station, where he is yet to be charged.

Mr Murray was a pillar of the New Orleans music community, having played in clubs around the city during his time as a successful, and highly skillful trumpeter. In addition, he also taught at Jefferson Parish public Schools. and Ellis Marsalis School of Music, as per his personal website.

Dr Daryl Dickerson, a friend of Murrays and colleague at Ellis Marsalis School of Music, told People that Mr Murray was not only an outstanding musician but also a great educator.

He was a great guy and great with kids...he could relate with kids, Mr Dickerson said.

Brian Murray (Facebook/Brian Murray)

He added that Murray also, through his Jerome Murray Instrumental Music Foundation, found instruments for kids in need.

He would be the guy who would get instruments from people and call me and say, do you need a trumpet, or a flute, he said. We would turn around and give it to a student. It was a pipe line of keeping music going in New Orleans.

That is what hurts the most. Some kids wont get to experience what he was offering. He was the kind of person, his knowledge, his wisdom, his experience, he would give it all to you so you would understand what is going on, Mr Dickerson concluded.
The White House told VOA the 565,110 doses of the vaccine shipped on Tuesday. They will be distributed through COVAX, a global initiative founded to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. These new doses come from the half-billion doses secured by President Joe Biden's administration over the summer, the White House said.

"As the president has said, America will be the arsenal of vaccines in our fight against COVID-19," a White House official told VOA. "We are proud to be able to deliver these safe and effective vaccines to the people of Ghana."

The United States has shipped more than 560,000 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to the West African nation of Ghana, the White House told VOA on Wednesday.

Ghana, a coastal nation of 31 million people, has reported nearly 157,000 cases of the virus, according to the World Health Organization. That has resulted in 1,395 deaths. It has administered more than 9.7 million vaccine doses.

The nation appears to have recently emerged from a fourth wave of infections. The last wave, which peaked in January, prompted the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to issue a Level 3 travel health notice over the high level of infection in the country.

Health advocates welcomed the donations but have long questioned whether the world's richest nation is doing enough. "In our view, there's much more work to do," said Ava Alkon, a U.S.-based policy adviser for aid group Doctors Without Borders. "We certainly appreciate the efforts that the U.S. government has made thus far. But at this point, in low-income countries, less than 12 percent of people have gotten even one dose at this point. And as we're rolling out booster doses in the U.S., we feel that there should be a steady flow of redistributed doses headed towards low- and middle-income countries at this point."

And she said with the U.S. now distributing free tests and planning to distribute free masks, they should step up their auxiliary efforts, as well. "We think the U.S. should step in to help fill these gaps wherever they can, wherever they exist, in collaboration with the WHO's Access to COVID Tools Accelerator, and should also be working to empower countries to procure and produce the tools they need themselves," Alkon said. "So, for example, we'd like to see PCR test manufacturers working together with the accelerator to make sure low- and middle- income countries can get the volumes of diagnostic tests they need, and place and price the products within those countries' reach. And we'd like to see the U.S. government facilitate that process."

Last month, Ghana's president announced that the nation will soon launch construction on a manufacturing facility for COVID-19 vaccines, as well as for tuberculosis and malaria vaccines. President Nana Akufo-Addo said the facility is a collaborative project between Senegal, Rwanda and a German biotechnology company.

Although the nation does not mandate vaccination, it is available to all people 15 years and older, including pregnant women, Ghanaian health authorities have said.
EL PASO, Texas, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Department of Psychiatry at Texas Tech Physicians of El Paso has opened a new addiction clinic to address mental health and substance use disorders in the Paso del Norte region. The clinic, which opened its doors in summer 2021, is the only of its kind in the county, with a provider who is an addiction psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN).

"We opened the clinic because there's a need for treating people with mental illness and comorbid addictions in our region," said Fabrizzio Delgado, M.D., psychiatrist at TTP El Paso and provider at the addiction clinic. "There's a lot of stigma about addiction, but it's a real medical condition. The problem is people either don't know they have a substance use disorder, or they don't know where to seek help. They don't even know help is available."

Over the past several years, adults have experienced an increase in mental illness and mental health issues, further exasperated by the COVID-19 pandemic nationwide and throughout the Borderland.

In 2020, 21% of U.S. adults experienced mental illness according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Only 46% of those with mental illness received treatment that same year. An unfortunate co-occurrence of mental health disorders is substance use, and in 2020, 17 million Americans experienced a substance use disorder in addition to mental illness.

"We opened at the right time. We know pandemic-related isolation made substance use disorders worse, and the problem is increasing," Dr. Delgado said. "Last year, 100,000 people in the U.S. died from opioid use. That's the highest number in history. It's time for us to start helping people with these conditions."

According to Dr. Delgado, a common misconception is that addiction treatment is solely for opioid users; however, alcohol use has gone up all over the country, including in the Paso del Norte region, which already had rates higher than state averages.

According to Healthy Paso Del Norte, in 2018, 22% of adults in El Paso County were reported as binge drinkers, compared to the Texas average of 17% and national average of 16%.

Dr. Delgado, who is also an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, is one of only two physicians in El Paso board certified by the ABPN in addiction psychiatry. Others in Texas are as far as Amarillo, and as far as Albuquerque in New Mexico.

"Like other chronic illness, including hypertension or diabetes, addictions must be managed in a medical model," he said. "This entails medication and medication-assisted treatment that can only be provided by physicians - ideally physicians who specialize in addiction medicine - along with counseling and groups including Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery."

The clinic serves patients 18 and older - from West Texas, El Paso County and Dona Ana County - experiencing issues with substance abuse, gambling or sexual addiction. Psychiatrists there see up to 12 patients per week, with room for expansion.

"Our location is key to bridging gaps in access to care for Borderland residents seeking help," Dr. Delgado said. "Being in the heart of El Paso, the clinic has the opportunity to reach our own residents, and those from New Mexico and other areas in the region where we can make a difference."

TTUHSC El Paso is the only health sciences center on the U.S.-Mexico border and serves 108 counties in West Texas that have been historically underserved. Faculty at the university's Foster School of Medicine are also practicing physicians at the school's medical practice, TTP El Paso, the region's largest multispecialty medical group practice.

TTP El Paso is comprised of over 250 specialists who provide world-class patient care for the entire family at several locations across El Paso. The practice offers services from a variety of subspecialty providers, helping local families avoid the expense of traveling outside the city for specialized health care services.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Veronique Masterson at 915-433-7407 or news.ep@ttuhsc.edu

Related Images











Image 1: Fabrizzio Delgado, M.D.





Dr. Fabrizzio Delgado is an ABPN-certified addiction psychiatrist at Texas Tech Physicians of El Paso.

















Image 2: Fabrizzio Delgado, M.D.





Dr. Fabrizzio Delgado at Texas Tech Physicians of El Paso's new addiction clinic.









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A Cambridge University alumnus has told a court it is 'sad' that students and the Master of Jesus College feel 'uncomfortable' when entering the college chapel because of a memorial to a 17th century benefactor who invested in slave-trading companies.

Undergraduates at the college are demanding the removal of a plaque to Tobias Rustat, a courtier to King Charles II, after it emerged that he had held a leadership position in the slave-trading firm the Royal African Company.

A court hearing, one of the first of its kind, is examining an application to the Diocese of Ely to relocate Rustat's marbe bust from its chapel to a permanent exhibition space in the college because it is incompatible with the chapel as an inclusive community and a place of collective wellbeing'.

The Master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne, said the college's proposal to relocate the monument of 'part of a process of critical self-reflection on the long-term legacies of enslavement and colonial violence'.

But the move has also received strong opposition from preservationists, Historic England and even Rustat's descendants.

Andrew Sutton, an accountant and alumnus of Jesus College, told the court said it was 'very sad' that the students and master felt uncomfortable by the memorial, but he said that 'quiet, rational discussion' would help the situation.

Cambridge University's Jesus College proposes removing the memorial to 17th benefactor Tobias Rustat from the chapel

The Master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne, said that the proposal to relocate the monument to an educational exhibition space was 'part of a process of critical self-reflection on the long-term legacies of enslavement and colonial violence'

Mr Sutton was asked by Mark Hill QC, representing petitioners trying to move the memorial, whether it caused him 'concern that the master of this college feels unable to enter the chapel of this college because of the presence of this memorial'. Mr Sutton said that it did.

Mr Hill asked would Mr Sutton rather that the memorial remained and that the master of the college excludes herself or has to summon up the courage to enter.

On Wednesday, Sonita Alleyne, Master of Jesus College and the first black female Master of an Oxbridge College, told the hearing that the chapel was a 'sanctified space' and asked, 'how much sin do you need to have before you come off the wall?'

Mr Sutton said on Thursday: 'I'm afraid I cannot help the master or the undergraduates.'

He added: 'I think all could be helped by informed, quiet, rational discussion.'

'I fear the cloud of misinformation still hangs over the college,' he said.

Mr Sutton's comment comes after Justin Gau, representing 65 alumni opposed to the removal, said students had been given a 'false narrative' about Rustat and accused the college's legacy of slavery working party of withholding information about him.

Mr Hill said that the presence of the memorial was an 'enduring impediment' to the chapel's use for secular activities for students.

'So you tell me,' said Mr Sutton.

'Do you have any sympathy with that?' said Mr Hill.

'It's very sad,' said Mr Sutton.

Jesus College set up a Legacy of Slavery Working Party, which recommended Rustat should not be celebrated by the college

Justin Gau of Pump Court Chambers, acting for the Rustat Memorial Group of alumni, who oppose the removal of the memorial, said that an email sent by a member of the college's working party on slavery on December 19 2020 had 'fed the undergraduates untruths'.

Quoting the email, which said that Mr Rustat 'amassed much of his wealth from the Royal African Company', Mr Gau said: 'Rustat did not amass much of his wealth, indeed he amassed nearly no money at all of his enormous wealth from any investments he had'.

He said that the email suggested 'Rustat was rich through slavery - the bequest he made to this college is as a direct result of his investments in slavery, and unsurprisingly on the strength of that information many undergraduates were horrified'.

'I don't understand how it is that so many of them use identical wording in their emails... a cut and paste job was done by undergraduates,' he added.

On Wednesday the court heard that many students' emails about the memorial contained the same phrase: 'It's totally wrong for the statue of someone who was so heavily involved in the horrific crimes of slavery to be glorified in the heart of our community.'

Mr Gau said that the person who had sent the email was a member of the Legacy of Slavery Working Party at the college in a meeting of November 2020, a month before it was sent.

He said that the court had been told the case 'was not about wokeism' or cancel culture but that Mr Hill had then 'called witnesses who speak about the morality of slavery, Christian ethics and cancel culture'.

Tobias Rustat (pictured) was a major investor in the Royal African Company and had been a servant to King Charles II

University benefactor and slave trade investor: Life of Tobias Rustat - and his links to Edward Colston A statue of Tobias Rustat Tobias Rustat was a 17th century benefactor of the University of Cambridge, as well as a servant to King Charles II. He created the first fund for the purchase of books at the Cambridge University Library. Born circa 1606, he trained as an apprentice to a barber-surgeon in his youth before becoming a servant - first to the 2nd Duke of Buckingham and later to the monarch. He accumulated his wealth during his career as a courtier - but also invested in several trading companies, including the Company of Royal Adventurers of England Trading into Africa - commonly known as the Royal African Company (RAC). The Company had complete control of Britain's slave trade, as well as its gold and Ivory business, with Africa and the forts on the coast of west Africa. Later in life, Rustat became a benefactor to the university, focusing mainly on Jesus College, where his father had been a student. He died in 1694. A contemporary of Rustat was Edward Colston, who became Deputy Governor of the Royal African Company. During Colston's tenure, his ships transported around 80,000 slaves from Africa to the Caribbean and America. Around 20,000 of them, including around 3,000 or more children, died during the journeys. Colston's brother Thomas supplied the glass beads that were used to buy the slaves. Colston used a lot of his wealth, accrued from his extensive slave trading, to build schools and almshouses in his home city. A statue was erected in his honour as well as other buildings named after him, including Colston Hall. But after years of protests by campaigners and boycotts by artists the venue recently agreed to remove all reference of the trader. In the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020 sparked by the death of George Floyd in the US, the statue of Colston overlooking the harbour in Bristol was torn down. Advertisement

Paul Vonberg of Paul Vonberg Architects, appearing as a witness for the petition to remove the memorial, said that the harm of removing the monument was 'small enough to be outweighed by the benefit'.

He said there was no guarantee he would receive the contract to remove the memorial and that his experience with 17th-century monuments was 'limited'.

'I've dealt with many other things of equivalent sensitivity,' he said to Mr Gau.

Mr Vonberg said that the memorial 'requires for its artistic appreciation to be at a high level'. Mr Gau suggested that its high position on the chapel wall did not mean it was being viewed with reverence.

Mr Vonberg said that any object which 'shows a human figure, you are necessarily expecting reverence from those who view it'.

He said that the removal of the memorial would harm the chapel but said: 'It's my view that the harm is small enough to be outweighed by the benefit'.

Preservationists, alumni and Rustat's descendants have opposed the removal of the memorial - arguing that his contributions to Cambridge were not earned from his financial interests in the slave trade.

Rustat is known to have donated 2,000, equivalent to 450,000 today, to fund scholarships for the children of Anglican priests at the college, which was his father's alma mater.

Historic England warned the removal of Rustat's sculpture would 'harm the significance of Jesus College Chapel'.

The case has prompted fresh fears over the proliferation of 'cancel culture' at academic institutions across the country, as the university's historic rival, Oxford, faced similar calls to topple its monument to imperialist Cecil Rhodes.

The case is being given a unique hearing because Rustat's memorial resides in a Grade I-listed religious building, so cannot be independently determined by the university and instead must be heard by a church-appointed judge at a consistory case.

Mr Gau argued on Wednesday that Rustat must be judged 'as a whole and as part of his society', before warning that we 'should not remove the difficulties that life throws at us in a chapel.'

Reading from students' emails that accused the 17th century courtier of being an active slave trader, Mr Gau challenged that assumption, stating there had been 'no demonstration in any document that Tobias Rustat was any sort of slave trader'.

A student's email dated December 19, 2020 said Mr Rustat 'amassed much of his wealth from the RAC', which Mr Gau said is 'simply not true'.

The email continued: 'The college has clearly denounced its bequest from Rustat as morally repugnant.' The email also claimed the memorial commemorated 'white supremacy'.

Rev Crockford replied: 'We should indeed be understanding individuals within their context, before adding: 'The memorial focuses very much on the financial virtues of Tobias Rustat and so there's a particular lens within which we need to see this memorial.'

He told Mr Gau that, as he understands it, the 'discomfort' of undergraduates and fellows regarding the memorial relates to the 'difficulty and significance of a monument that celebrates the life of the man... and his financial dealings'.

Jesus College's application to the Diocese states that keeping the memorial within the chapel is 'inconsistent with the tenets of the Christian faith', and is a 'hindrance to participation in the pastoral and community activities of the college which take place in the chapel'.

The marble memorial is on a wall within the college's chapel and was commissioned by Rustat during his lifetime when he was already a major College donor.

The Roya African Company, a business he invested heavily in and counted Bristol slave trader Edward Colston among its alumni, has been described as by historians as shipping 'more enslaved African women, men and children to the Americans than any single institution during the entire period of the transatlantic slave trade'.

Following recommendations made by Jesus College's Legacy of Slavery Working Party in 2019 and 2020, the college took the view that the memorial represents a celebration of Rustat which is 'incompatible with the chapel as an inclusive community and a place of collective wellbeing'.

Archivist Robert Athol said last year that the plan to move the monument to an exhibition setting will 'allow for restoration and study of the monument'.

He added that it 'will enable people to engage with it as an artistic piece and as a vehicle for discussion about the history and legacy of enslavement'.

But preservationists have slammed plans to move the memorial, which is believed to have been crafted by renowned Anglo-Dutch sculptor Grinling Gibbons.

Prominent historical figures with alleged slavery links were re-examined after the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020 which saw the toppling of a statue of slave trader Edward Colston in Bristol - a contemporary of Rustat.

The Master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne, said that the college's proposal to relocate the monument to an educational exhibition space was 'part of a process of critical self-reflection on the long-term legacies of enslavement and colonial violence'.

'The chapel should offer a welcoming space accessible to every member of our community,' she said last year. 'This is the right solution for our college.'

Cambridge Stand up to Racism said in a statement: 'We strongly support the decolonisation movement active in academic institutions across the country. We support the master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne, who wants to move the plaque of the slave trader Tobias Rustat from the chapel.

'Furthermore, we support the removal of the memorial plaque from Jesus College altogether and its placing somewhere where its significance can be properly explained.

'The brutality of a slave trader 'benefactor' has been hidden from history for too long.

'We supported the removal of Edward Colston's statue in Bristol and we support the campaign by Hackney Stand Up To Racism and Diane Abbott to remove Robert Geffrye's statue from the Museum of the Home in Hackney.

'We feel that Tobias Rustat is another in the same line of despicable merchants who made their fortunes out of the misery of others.'

A number of college alumni have also objected to the proposal to move the memorial.

A Jesus College spokesman said last month: 'It comes down to whether it's in the best interests of our current and future students and fellows for this celebratory memorial to be in our Chapel, a place of worship at the heart of our diverse community.'

'The college is not seeking to cancel Rustat or erase him from the record - it is applying to have his memorial moved from a place of worship to a more suitable - but still prominent - place in the college.

'In addition to religious events, the chapel plays a central role in college life and hosts many historic and ceremonial occasions as well as concerts and recitals, welfare activities and student arts festivals.

'The memorial is an obstacle to some members of our community participating in all these college events.'

In February last year, the descendants of Rustat criticised the plans to move the memorial. Stephen Hemsted and his three brothers, Rustat's tenth great nephews, lodged a complaint with the college and argued that the Royal African Company was not the source of money he gave to the institution.

The family told The Times that they regarded Rustat as a 'distinguished ancestor' and added there was 'no justification' for removing the memorial.

Mr Hemsted said of Rustat: 'It's clear that the bulk of his wealth came from things [that were] nothing to do with slavery, so the money that was given to Jesus College clearly has nothing to do with slavery.'

He added: 'We think it's a mistake to try to link his investment in the Royal African Company to this memorial and the bequest he made to Jesus College. There seems to be no justification on slavery grounds for removing the memorial.'

Mr Hemsted had proposed to Ms Alleyne that a notice be put in the chapel explaining both Rustat's generous donations and his links to the slaving company.

He said the college's plan was to remove the memorial entirely and instead have a plaque at the entrance warning people they were stepping into 'a place where Tobias Rustat had put money'.

Rustat's memorial was commissioned by the man himself, and it is prominently displayed in Jesus College's chapel.

It comes less than a month after a jury spared the 'Colston Four' from punishment after admitting they caused criminal damage when they tore down a monument to slave trader Edward Colston during Black Lives Matter demos in Bristol.

Rhian Graham, 30, Milo Ponsford, 26, Sage Willoughby, 22, and Jake Skuse, 33, were cleared of all charges at Bristol Crown Court despite admitting to playing a part in the destruction of Colston's historic statue.

Lawyers and political commentators have since slammed the jury's verdict, with some admitting they fear that the 17th century slaver was put on trial at Bristol Crown Court, rather than the four self-professed vandals.
American 'ISIS mom' Allison Fluke-Ekren tried to ransom her own children back to their father in Kansas after she fled with them to the Middle East, DailyMail.com can reveal.

Fluke-Ekren, 42, took off to Turkey with her second husband, Volkan Ekren around 2005, bringing along her son Gabriel, then eight, and daughter Alaina, seven, amid a bitter custody battle with their father and her ex-spouse, James Fluke, 47.

Her former sister-in-law, Amy Fluke, 49, has revealed the mom began sending her ex-husband emails and notes demanding more than $6,000 for the return of their two kids, shortly after moving abroad.

'The first month they were away in Turkey we could still call and talk to Gabe and Alaina, but after that we lost all contact. And that broke my brother,' Amy told DailyMail.com.

'That's when the really weird stuff started happening. It started with ransom notes.

'We would get them by mail or emails. They were telling him he could have the kids back for a certain amount of money. Sometimes it was $5,000 or $6,000, and it started being more and more. I don't remember the highest amount.

Allison Fluke-Ekren, 42, tried to ransom her own children, Gabe and Alaina (pictured at front) to their father after she left Kansas and turned to radical Islam overseas, DailyMail.com can reveal

Former friends and family have shared details of Fluke-Ekren's early stages of criticism for America and her eventual radicalization. She is seen as a young woman - back when she was known as Allison Brooks - with a flower tucked behind her ear in a field near Topeka, in a photo taken for an outdoor photography class in the mid-1990s

Mechanic ex-husband James Fluke, 47, spoke to DailyMail.com from the doorstep of his Topeka, Kansas home, revealing he lost all contact with his own children for 10 years after his ex-wife fled the US with them

'But we wanted to get the children back legally, so he didn't pay any ransom. We were trying to fight for the opportunity to get them back to the United States to have a custody hearing, and that's when we lost all contact with the children for about five or six years,' she added.

It was not clear whether any ransom money would have been diverted to ISIS.

DailyMail.com can also reveal that Fluke-Ekren - who is now charged with supporting a terrorist organization - faked her own death while living in Syria and cruelly taunted James that his daughter Alaina was dead.

Relatives revealed Gabriel managed to escape back to the US when he was 17 and has made a quiet new life for himself, but Alaina's whereabouts remain unknown and she could still be in Syria.

Allison Fluke is charged with providing material support to ISIS after allegedly joining the terrorist organization in Syria in 2014. She is pictured wearing a black hijab in an undated booking photo released after her arrest on Friday

Amy made the ransom revelation as James spoke exclusively to DailyMail.com following his ex-wife's court appearance Monday where she was charged with being a member of Islamic State and leading an all-female battalion armed with AK-47 assault rifles.

'I hope they lock her up and throw away the key,' he said.

'She kidnapped my kids for ten years. She's manipulative. She always has been.

'She's always wanted the spotlight. There is no way to adequately describe how manipulative she is.'

Speaking at his modest home in a quiet corner of Topeka, Kansas, he continued: 'Imagine your wife stabbing you with a sharp object and then for some odd reason she discusses this with you to the point where you are apologizing for it.

Asked about his reaction to the terrorist accusations against her, James  who fits tires and mufflers for Midas  added: 'I can't even wrap my head around it. I hope she gets what she deserves. I hope it's done right.'

A criminal complaint was filed under seal against Fluke-Ekren in 2019, however, she was whisked back to the United States from Syria to face charges on Friday.

She appeared in the US District Court in Alexandria, Virginia Monday for a short hearing where she was ordered to remain in jail pending a detention hearing on Thursday.

Other members of her former family in Topeka exclusively revealed to DailyMail.com background details of the 'fantasist's' early stages of criticism for America.

Fluke-Ekren met second husband Volkan Ekren (left) - a member of a powerful family in Turkey - at university, when she was still married to Fluke. The two went on to marry and have at least three more children, according to her family blog. They are pictured above with their son Zaid

Fluke-Ekren moved to Turkey with second husband Volkan Ekren (pictured) and her kids around 2005, before moving to Egypt and later Syria. The family is pictured posing at the base of the pyramids outside of Cairo

Family members said the alleged terrorist mom began criticizing the US and expressing an interest in Islam while she was still married to her first husband in Kansas

The mom-of-five moved to Egypt in 2008 and would travel frequently between Egypt and the US over the next three years. She announced the move in her final Facebook post dated May 5, 2008

They said nature-loving Fluke-Ekren grew up as Allison Brooks on an isolated farm in Overbrook, Kansas, which could only be accessed through dirt roads.

She and James had two children, Gabriel, now 25, and Alaina, who would be 24 if she is still alive.

The now alleged terrorist became pregnant with Gabriel at 17 when she was a student at Topeka Collegiate School and dropped out of high school.

But James worked two jobs  washing cars by day and chauffeuring for a casino at night  so she could get her GED and later attend the University of Kansas  where she began a relationship with Ekren, a member of a powerful family in Turkey.

It was then that she started becoming very critical of America to some members of her family in Topeka, relatives told DailyMail.com.

She also dropped out of college and is not a qualified teacher as has been reported.

James and Allison eventually divorced, sparking a bitter custody battle. She then married Ekren and took the children to Turkey with him without her ex's permission.

A Fluke family member who did not want to be identified told DailyMail.com: 'James got Gabe back when he was around 17 after he literally escaped. But Alaina, his biological daughter, she never came back.

'He still doesn't know where she is. He believes there comes a time when he just cannot dwell on that.

'He doesn't know if Alaina is or was in Syria, somewhere else in the Middle East, or even if she is still alive. He has no idea. He tries not to think about it.'

According to family members, Fluke-Ekren's eldest son, Gabriel (left) now 25, managed to escape to the US when he was 17 and has made a quiet new life for himself, but his sister Alaina, now 24, (right) remains missing and could still be in Syria

Volkan pictured with Gabriel, Alaina, and two of his children with Fluke-Ekren, Leyla and Nael (in the back) in 2008

While she was allegedly planning terror attacks to kill as many as possible, Fluke-Ekren would blog about the little things in life, like her son graduating from kindergarten

In 2008 Fluke-Ekren left Turkey and moved to Cairo, Egypt with her new husband and taught children there.

She traveled frequently between Egypt and the US for the next three years but had not been in the States since 2011, according to court documents. She is believed to have moved to Syria around 2012.

According to prosecutors, Volkan Ekren was killed in the Syrian city of Tell Abyad while trying to carry out a terrorist attack in early 2016.

The alleged terrorist mom then went on to marry a Bangladeshi ISIS member who specialized in drones, but he died in late 2016 or early 2017, authorities say.

Four months after that man's death, she again remarried a prominent Islamic state leader who was responsible for the Islamic State group's defense of the Syrian city of Raqqa, which became the capital of ISIS's self-proclaimed caliphate.

She is believed to have had at least three more children, according to her family blog 4KansasKids, where she had been documenting the family's life overseas until 2010.

Through Volkan, Fluke-Ekren had a second daughter named Leyla, who is now living safely in the United States, having escaped the clutches of Islamic radicalism with Gabriel.

'James takes care of her now as well. He is incredibly protective of these now adult children and is very angry about what she put them through,' said the family member.

'If Allison gets a long sentence, he will probably just move on. But if she brings the kids into her defense, he will fight back.'

James's sister Amy also revealed Fluke-Ekren faked her death in 2018 by making it seem she had been killed in an airstrike in Syria  and taunted her ex over Alaina's fate.

According to court papers she arranged to get a message back to her family in Kansas that she had been killed 'so that the US government would not attempt to locate her.'

A photo shared with DailyMail.com shows smiling and innocent Allison Brooks working on a science project in junior high - decades before, as Allison Fluke-Ekren, she would become an alleged leader of an Islamic terrorist group

Other members of her former family in Topeka, Kansas exclusively revealed to DailyMail.com background details of the 'fantasist's' early stages of criticism for America. She is pictured with son Nael and daughter Leyla

According to prosecutors, Volkan Ekren (pictured with the family) was killed in the Syrian city of Tell Abyad while trying to carry out a terrorist attack in early 2016

Amy branded her former sister-in-law a 'fantasist', describing how her character changed after marrying James.

'When we first met her she was sweet, really nice, seemed perfectly sane,' she said.

'And it was shortly after she got pregnant with Gabriel that everything went south and changed.

'Mood swings, really protective of what my brother could and couldn't do all of a sudden. She was very weird about, "where have you been," "what have you been doing?"

'It was right then, that's when the lies started. She would lie to people about her past. I read one article that stated she had a master's degree in teaching, which she does not.'

Married Amy, who lives close to her brother, continued: 'She vanished for days at a time, and would say that she needed time with her friends.

'At the time we thought that's weird and the marriage was kind of rocky, but later on we found out that's when she was meeting people who were interested in radical Islamic fundamentalism.

'She mentioned that she wanted to become Muslim. She would talk a lot about how she did not enjoy the United States anymore and was very critical of it.

'She said things in the Middle East were easier and much better, that women had a certain place in life and that that's how she was going to raise Gabe and Alaina.

'She started wearing the headdress and made Alaina do the same. There is nothing wrong with that of course, but it just seems more relevant now.'

While abroad, Gabriel and Alaina made secret and hurried phone calls to Amy and James in later years to reassure them, but did not reveal where they were. However, those calls also eventually stopped.

The son suddenly and mysteriously turned up in New York when he was 17, with Leyla. He gave little away about his life, or how he managed to get out.

'At first he wouldn't talk at all. And he is still not going to talk a lot about his mom in his life,' Amy said.

'But every once in a while a little snippet comes out  and that's when we learned that she dragged them pretty much all over the Mid-East, and from husband to husband.

Fluke-Ekren home-schooled her two children Gabriel and Alaina Fluke in her house in Kansas. Relatives say she dropped out of college before finishing her teaching degree

Sources close to the Kansas woman said she continued teaching children after moving to the Egypt. She is pictured above with her class

'From what I understand through Gabe and Leyla, I do understand she took them to Syria. But we don't know that for a fact.'

She added: 'I haven't seen Alaina since she was six. I have no idea where she is. At one point we were told she was no longer living. Allison told us that. She told my brother in 2018 and right after that is when we heard that supposedly Allison had died in an air strike.

'James didn't believe that Alaina is dead, and he still doesn't believe that.

'Allison tried to fake her own death. When I first heard it I believed she was dead, but this is how I got the idea that maybe she wasn't.'

Amy did not reveal how Fluke-Ekren tried to convince them she was dead. However, she said her suspicions that the alleged terrorist was still alive were reinforced by the fact that she herself is on a security watch list for flying.

Of her brother's fears for his missing daughter, she said: 'As of right now, he hopes for the best for Alaina. But we don't think we are ever going to see her again.

'She hasn't been in contact with us for a very long time. Gabriel now has a house, he has a job and just seeks to have a quiet life.

'Gabe got back to the US on his own. I have no idea how he broke free. He won't talk about it.

'One day, he was in New York and he called his dad and said, "can you pick me up, I'm getting out." And James got in a car the next day and drove all the way to New York. The last time he had seen Gabriel was when he was eight.'

Fluke-Ekren's parents Alice Brooks, 77, and Mark Brooks, 76 - who split 20 years ago - along with Gabriel and Leyla, requested the alleged terrorist be banned from contacting them through an attorney at Monday's hearing.

A close friend of the Brookses told DailyMail.com in Topeka: 'Mark and Alice hadn't seen or had contact with Allison for years.

'They knew she had gone off the page and wasn't a good American. Perhaps I shouldn't say that last bit, but that's how it appears.

James and Allison had two children, Gabriel, now 25, and Alaina, who would be 24 if still alive, after meeting in high school. The 47-year-old has described his ex-wife as 'manipulative'

'They were a beautiful family  yet she faked her death and put them through that.'

The friend, who did not want to be named, added: 'I knew her when she was a little girl and she was delightful. It is shocking what has happened. Absolutely heart breaking.

'And that is how the family are feeling. They don't want anything to do with her.'

Prosecutors say Fluke-Ekren wanted to recruit operatives to attack a college campus in the US and discussed the idea of attacking a shopping mall by remotely detonating a car full of explosives in the parking garage.

She told one witness that 'she considered any attack that did not kill a large number of individuals to be a waste of resources,' according to an FBI affidavit.

The same witness said that when Fluke-Ekren would hear about terrorist attacks taking place in countries outside the US, she would comment that she wished the attack occurred on American soil instead. She is due in court again on Thursday.

The affidavit also alleges Ekren, who went by the names 'Umm Mohammed al-Amriki,' 'Umm Mohammed,' and 'Umm Jabril,' became leader of an Islamic State unit called 'Khatiba Nusaybah' in Raqqa in late 2016.

The all-female unit comprised of the wives of male ISIS fighters was trained in the use of AK-47 rifles, grenades and suicide belts.

The members of Khatiba Nusaybah were allegedly instructed on physical training, medical training, Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device driving courses, religious classes and how to pack and prepare a 'go bag' with military supplies.

According to eyewitness accounts, some of these classes were taught by Fluke-Ekren.

Our revelations about Fluke-Ekren come as we can reveal a picture of Fluke-Ekren looking innocent and wide-eyed while a student at Topeka Collegiate.

Earlier this week, her former science teacher Larry Miller shared photos of Fluke-Ekren  then Allison Brooks  with DailyMail.com. One had her holding a lizard on a school field trip and another she looked wistful with a flower in her hair during a photography course.

'She loved nature and she loved learning about nature,' Miller said.

'I do not understand how intelligent and caring people like Allison and others end up being so brainwashed to want to harm and kill others  that in most cases have done nothing to deserve any type of violence toward them.'
Photo credit: Pim van der Marel - Getty Images

Update 8/11/22: Rotterdam now won't dismantle the Koningshaven Bridge for Jeff Bezos's boat. After backlash, the ship's builder Oceano decided to not move forward with a request to alter the bridge to sail the yacht. According to a Rotterdam deputy mayor, Oceano will "for the time being not request the environmental permit for the removal of the bridge."

"Were happy its not happening," Marvin Biljoen, a councilman for GroenLinks, the Dutch Green Party, told the New York Times. "The bridge is a national monument, which shouldnt be altered too much. That you could still do that with money anyway bothers us."

Last week, Oceano quietly towed the yacht up the river in the early hours of the morning to a different shipyard, and now, Bezos's boat is nearly completed. The YouTube channel Dutch Yachting shared a video of the boat, and it has three large masts completed:

Expect the superyacht to be on the open seas soon.

Original 2/7/22: The European port of Rotterdam will dismantle part of its iconic Koningshaven bridge for Jeff Bezos. The billionaire's new yacht is being built in Alblasserdam, in the western Netherlands, and will be too tall to pass under the bridge.

"It's the only route to the sea," a spokesperson for the mayor of Rotterdam told AFP, confirming the news of the bridge's dismantling. According to Dutch news, ship builder Oceanco convinced the city to dismantle part of the bridge. The Rotterdam mayor's spokesperson also confirmed that Bezos would pay for the dismantling and rebuilding of the bridge.



In November, Oceano's chairman, Omani businessman Dr. Mohammed Al Barwani, spoke of the 127 meter (416 feet) sailing yacht the company was working on without mentioning Bezos. Later, Boat International identified the 127m yacht as the one commissioned by the Amazon founder.

The Koningshaven bridge, known locally as the De Hef bridge, was built in 1877. During World War II, the bridge was significantly damaged and rebuilt, subsequently recognized as a historic monument. Between 2014 and 2017, the bridge underwent a restoration, and officials promised it would not be dismantled again.

Story continues

Photo credit: Hulton Deutsch - Getty Images

"From an economic perspective and maintaining employment, the municipality considers this a very important project," Marcel Walravens, the leader of the proposed dismantling project, told Dutch broadcaster Rijnmond. "Rotterdam has also been declared the maritime capital of Europe. Shipbuilding and activity within that sector are therefore an important pillar for the municipality." Walravens says the project will likely take place sometime this summer.

Dennis Tak, a Labor Party city councilor, said he was OK with the dismantling of the Koningshaven bridge because Bezos is paying for it, and it would create jobs. "As a city, this is a great way to take some of his money," Tak told the New York Times.

Dutch residents are not happy, however; they plan to throw rotten eggs at Jeff Bezos's superyacht as it passes through the Rotterdam harbor. Business Insider reports Rotterdam locals are planning an event called "Throwing eggs at Jeff Bezos' superyacht" in protest.

"Calling all Rotterdammers, take a box of rotten eggs with you and let's throw them en masse at Jeff's superyacht when it sails through the Hef in Rotterdam," the event description reads on Facebook. "Rotterdam was built from the rubble by the people of Rotterdam, and we don't just take that apart for the phallic symbol of a megalomaniac billionaire. Not without a fight!" 3,300 people have RSVP'd as going, and 11,600 are interested in the event.

Photo credit: George Rinhart - Getty Images

When Bezos's yacht, known as Y721, is delivered later this yearafter the bridge is dismantledthe boat will become the world's largest sailing yacht, a title that has been held for nearly a century by American socialite Marjorie Merriweather Post's 1931 boat Sea Cloud.



Along with making history as the largest sailing yacht, Bezos's Y271 is the longest yacht to have ever been built in the Netherlands, and Oceano's largest ever superyacht. It is also rumored to come with a "support yacht," also called a shadow vessel. The superyacht likely cost more than $500 million to build, per Bloomberg.

Bezos is also reportedly the owner of the Flying Fox, a $400 million megayacht.

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Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in China on Thursday to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics and urge a USD 3 bn loan from the communist regime as Islamabad faces financial difficulties at home, according to a media report. "Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI arrived at Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing, where he was received by Assistant Foreign Minister of China Wu Jianghao," said Pakistan Prime Minister's Office on Thursday. A high-level delegation is accompanying Imran Khan comprising Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, National Security Adviser (NSA) Moeed Yousuf, and Adviser on Commerce and Investment Abdul Razak Dawood is accompanying the prime minister, reported ARY News. Imran is also scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders during his China visit to discuss a range of issues. Both sides will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations, with a particular focus on stronger trade and economic cooperation including CPEC. The Pakistan Prime Minister is also expected to meet other global leaders, prominent business leaders and think tanks of China. PM Khan would also meet prominent business leaders of China and representatives of leading Chinese think-tanks, academia and the media in Beijing. He will also have other bilateral interactions on the sidelines. Pakistan is also expected to present a book titled 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor - Investment Opportunities in Pakistan,' which will be presented to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and businessmen, according to ARY News. The Pakistan Prime Minister's visit comes after The Express Tribune last week reported that Islamabad is keeping its focus on availing a USD 3 billion loan and will seek investment in six sectors from Beijing during the upcoming China visit of Imran Khan. Islamabad has set its sight on a loan to the tune of USD 3 billion from China to stabilise its dwindling foreign exchange reserves and also seeks an investment bonanza in half a dozen sectors during the visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to Beijing next week, reported The Express Tribune. Imran Khan would also seek Chinese support in areas of finance, trade and investment reported the Pakistani publication citing government sources. (ANI)
Famed Chicago blues drummer and vocalist Sam Lay  who recorded on definitive tracks by Little Walter, Howlin' Wolf, Muddy Waters, Bob Dylan and many others, and recorded with and lead his own band  died in a nursing facility near his Chicago home from natural causes on Jan. 29. He was 86 years old.

His drumming was the driving force behind some of the most iconic blues recordings of all time. With Wolf, he recorded such timeless tracks as "Killing Floor," "I Ain't Superstitious" and "300 Pounds of Joy." Lay was also the drummer on Water's classic Chess Records album, "Fathers & Sons," but Lay's complete list of historic recordings runs deep.

Lay was renowned for his trademark hard-to-copy "double-shuffle" based on the double-time hand-clapping from his childhood church. In addition to his work with Wolf and Waters, Lay was an original member of the hugely influential, racially integrated Paul Butterfield Blues Band, among the first groups to bring hard Chicago blues to the then burgeoning rock 'n' roll audience. He recorded on the band's groundbreaking debut album, featuring guitarists Mike Bloomfield and Elvin Bishop.

Along with members of the Butterfield Band, Lay backed Bob Dylan at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival, as Dylan famously plugged in his electric guitar on stage for the first time, forever changing the course of popular music. He recorded two albums for Chicago's Alligator Records with The Siegel-Schwall Band, which he worked with until his death.

Lay appeared during the seven-part 2003 PBS-TV broadcast of "The History of the Blues," produced by Academy Award winning director Martin Scorsese. He was the subject of a 2009 documentary film titled, "Sam Lay In Bluesland," directed by John Anderson (samlayinbluesland.com). The film features Sam telling his story in his own words and music, and includes appearances by musical greats such as Iggy Pop, Corky Siegel, Elvin Bishop and late blues harmonica giant James Cotton.

One of the most historically significant and musically innovative drummers in both the early blues and rock 'n' roll scenes, Lay is an inductee to the "Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame," "The Blues Hall Of Fame" and "The Jazz Hall Of Fame." Known for wearing a cape and carrying a walking stick, Lay had his own unique style off stage as well as when it came to drumming.

Sam Lay will be missed by all who love blues music. He is survived by daughter Debbie Lay (Hiley), four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and innumerable friends and fans. Funeral arrangements were pending at press time.

Headless cattle and comedy nights

Concert promoter Paul Panicali of Munster-based Mush Music, LLC brings the San Diego, California death metal band, Cattle Decapitation to Hobart Art Theater (230 Main St.) in downtown Hobart tonight for a 6 p.m. concert. In their quarter century together, the super heavy grind core band with the rather disturbing name, has amassed nine albums in their catalog, with the latest being 2019's "Death Atlas." Opening for the cattlemen tonight are a trio of equally loud and aggressive bands: Extinction A.D., Creeping Death and Last Ten Seconds of Life. Tickets range from $25 to $45.

Alabama-based Dustin Sims, host of "The Poor Taste Podcast," stops at Hobart Art Theater on Friday with tickets ranging from $20 to $55. Laughs continue Saturday with "The Chicagoland Stand-Up" event presented by comedienne Susana Rodriguez. Headline comic Abi Sanchez won the 2020 HBO Latino Stand Up Comedy Contest. Also performing Saturday are Ken Flores, Brooks Sullivan, Emily Schaefer, Tessa Orzech, and Ricardo Angulo. Tickets start at $20 general admission, with various VIP seating options. More: brickartlive.com.

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 Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana (5400 West 29th Ave.) in Gary offers up party/dance covers with Run Forrest Run on its Hard Rock Cafe Stage this Friday, followed on Saturday by the R-Gang band. The Ivy Ford Band steps up this Friday to dish out tasty guitar-driven blues at the Hard Rock's Council Oak Bar Stage, followed by the unique jazzy sounds of Carlos & Andreas on Saturday. All shows are 8 p.m. More: 219-228-2383 or hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com.

 Here's a unique opportunity for old school rockers! A reunion show has been announced by one time Region faves, Demagin, who first hit the NWI scene in 2000 and have not played live together in many years. Find the boys -- Beaver Lopez, Aaron Harris, Phil Reiner and Dean Adamczyk -- blowing the rust off this Friday from 8 p.m. to midnight at Buddy & Pals (1206 E. Summit St.) in Crown Point.

 Tonight from 7-10 p.m., the duo of Lauren Dukes & Marco Villarreal perform at Northwoods Falls (8101 Wicker Ave.), followed this weekend by pop/rock covers band Bad Alley Shadows on Friday. Things get hot on the dance floor Saturday as Funky Mojo Daddy hits the stage. More: northwoodsfalls.com or 219-351-5148.

 Considered one of the Region's best guitar instructors and musicians, Marco Villarreal will host an intimate weeknight guitar clinic of sorts called "Guitar Speak" on Feb. 23 at The Record Bin (1601 Franklin St.) in Michigan City. This unique evening of guitar fundamentals and more is designed for all skill levels. Space is limited, so reserving tickets in advance is recommended. More: https://fb.me/e/1r5pRrs2P or 219-210-3813.

 "Comedy Night" featuring a handful of area comics returns this Friday at Leroy's Hot Stuff (333 West U.S. 20) in Porter. The quirky rock sounds of local music makers Jacob & Ed, aka JANKY LIMO, will park Saturday on the cantina stage, followed by Sunday's weekly Blues Jam (7 to 11 p.m.) with Corey Dennison. More: leroyshotstuff.com or 219-926-6211.

 Northwest Indiana music legends, Marlon Jackson and Tito Jackson of Gary's iconic R&B group, The Jackson Five, guest live on 89.1FM-Lakeshore Public Radio's "Midwest BEAT with Tom Lounges" this Friday, respectively from 1-2 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. The famous brothers will talk about their Region roots, their music and their Homecoming concert on Feb. 19 at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana (5400 West 29th Ave.) on its Hard Rock Live stage. Stream at: lakeshorepublicradio.org.
When I heard that Rep. Bobby Rush had decided to call it quits after an impressive three decades of service in Congress, I was reminded  to borrow my favorite line from the Grateful Dead  what a long, strange trip its been.

Our career paths first brought us together in the late 1960s when he was vice chairman of the Illinois Black Panther Party.

Two decades later, he was vice chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party.

Only in America, as my late father liked to say with a sense of satisfaction over how far Black folks had come in his lifetime.

Indeed, I reported on the Illinois Panther chapter before its original Chairman Fred Hampton and fellow Panther Mark Clark died in a 1969 FBI shootout that turned out to be more of an assassination, as depicted in the Oscar-nominated Judas and the Black Messiah.

Rush moved into Hamptons position as the organization was in decline, and I found myself covering his first campaign for Chicago City Council  and later his victory in the 1st District congressional race on Chicagos South Side.

Now his three decades of service are remembered most often as the only politician to beat Barack Obama. Thats probably just as well, since the loss left Obama free to win a Senate seat and the White House.

Asked about that victory over the politically inexperienced Obama, Rush joked, after recounting how rich and famous Obama has since become, I wonder sometimes who really won that race.

But the two later became good friends, Rush said, recalling how Obama asked for his advice as to whether he should run for president.

Go out and do it, Rush responded,  If you dont do it now, youll spend the rest of your life regretting it. I think that was sound advice.

Rush, too, has a keen sense of historical significance. He held his news conference in Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ, where 14-year-old Emmett Tills funeral was held more than 60 years ago after he was murdered by racists in Mississippi for allegedly whistling at a white woman.

Rosa Parks would later say that she had Till on her mind when she famously refused to give up her seat in the white section of a Birmingham bus, igniting the civil rights era of the 1950s and 60s.

Parks went on to inspire countless others and energize the movement, which would evolve in the 1960s to more militancy and the birth of the Black Panthers.

But after leading the already declining organization to a quiet demise in the early 1970s, Rush turned to establishment politics, first as an alderman, then a congressman who became a voice for a bold progressivism against such familiar issues as police misconduct, child hunger and affordable housing.

He also maintained his flair for the dramatic, such as participating in sit-in protests and his breaking House rules by wearing a hoodie to orate on the House floor about another cause: the death of Trayvon Martin, the Black youth killed by a security guard in Florida. His point: Just because someone wears a hoodie doesnt make him a hoodlum.

In his new role as elder statesman, he honors the past with his activism, calling recently for opening the FBI files on the Hampton and Clark killings  and removing late FBI director J. Edgar Hoovers name from FBI headquarters in Washington.

Congress alone is not going to liberate Black people, equalize or create an equal society, he said, But I learned in the Black Panther Party determination, not limitation.

Now he has more time to spend with his family and his latest incarnation as an ordained minister, which he calls a reassignment. Im not retiring, he said. Im returning home.

Back to his church and his family at age 75 to carry on his life of service.

At the end of the 1960s, many of us wondered where the surviving political activists would turn when the great causes of those times were replaced by new ones. Bobby Rush was one who stayed with activism, but in more conventional ways than those of the Panthers and other similarly radical movements.

With that, he also sends a message to new generations. The system can respond to the great grievances of the time  and, whether change comes quickly or with great sacrifice, persistence pays.
WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) announced that it has imposed interim suspensions of the CFP certification against Randall Scott Boll and David Yow-Shang Chiueh, which were effective on January 26, 2022, and January 27, 2022, respectively.

On January 26, 2022, CFP Board issued an automatic Interim Suspension Order suspending the right of Randall Scott Boll of Old Hickory, Tennessee to use the CFP certification marks. This discipline followed Mr. Boll being indicted on four counts related to violations of federal money laundering laws and banking regulations. Under the interim suspension order, Mr. Boll's right to use the CFP certification marks is suspended pending CFP Board's completed investigation and possible further disciplinary proceedings.

On January 28, 2022, CFP Board's Disciplinary and Ethics Commission (DEC) issued an Interim Suspension Order suspending the right of David Yow-Shang Chiueh of East Hanover, New Jersey to use the CFP certification marks. On December 10, 2021, CFP Board filed a Motion for Interim Suspension Order (Motion) pursuant to Article 2.1.a.1 of CFP Board's Procedural Rules requesting the DEC issue an Interim Suspension Order against Mr. Chiueh. The Motion described that, on November 24, 2021, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) published an Order Instituting Proceedings against Mr. Chiueh and the firm of which he is Founder and President, finding that they violated several of the antifraud provisions, as well as other provisions, of the federal securities laws. According to the SEC's Order Instituting Proceedings, which occurred pursuant to a settlement between the parties, the SEC found that from at least July 1, 2017, through June 30, 2020, Mr. Chieuh made investments in a mutual fund he managed that were inconsistent with the description of that fund in the fund's publicly available registration and repeatedly miscalculated the fund's Net Asset Value. Mr. Chiueh willfully violated Sections 17(a)(2) and 17(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933, Sections 20(a) and 34(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, and Sections 206(2) and 206(4) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, among other violations. Mr. Chiueh consented to cease-and-desist orders and his firm agreed to pay disgorgement of $390,704.92. Mr. Chiueh also agreed to pay a penalty of $90,000 on a joint and several basis. After reviewing the matter, the DEC determined that Mr. Chiueh's conduct significantly impinges upon the reputation of the profession and the CFP certification marks and granted the Motion.

An interim suspension is a suspension of a CFP professional's Certification and Trademark License during the pendency of proceedings. A Respondent subject to an Interim Suspension Order must not use the CFP certification marks or state or suggest that Respondent is a CFP professional while the Interim Suspension Order is in effect. An Interim Suspension Order is a temporary sanction and does not preclude CFP Board from imposing a final sanction. An Interim Suspension Order will remain in place until the DEC or, if an appeal is filed, the Code and Standards Enforcement Committee, issues a final order. CFP Board may vacate an Interim Suspension Order if a Criminal Conviction is vacated or reversed or if Respondent provides sufficient evidence indicating that Respondent was not the subject of a Criminal Conviction. A Hearing Panel of the DEC may issue an Order to vacate an Interim Suspension Order upon a successful Petition to Vacate an Interim Suspension Order by Respondent.

The basis for this decision also may be found on CFP Board's website at CFP.net/verify. At that website, the public may check on any individual's CFP Board disciplinary history and CFP certification status. The website also provides links to other sources of information about CFP professionals that may be more recent or that may contain information that has not led to CFP Board discipline and does not appear on CFP Board's website. That information may include customer disputes, disciplinary actions taken by a regulator or employer, certain criminal matters, and certain financial matters (such as bankruptcy proceedings and unpaid judgments or liens). For those who are subject to Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) or SEC oversight, the website includes links to FINRA's BrokerCheck and the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure databases.

CFP Board's Enforcement Process

As part of their certification, CFP professionals make a commitment to CFP Board to uphold CFP Board's Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct (Code and Standards), or its predecessor, the Standards of Professional Conduct (Standards), which included the Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility, Rules of Conduct and Financial Planning Practice Standards. CFP Board's Procedural Rules outline a peer-review, enforcement process for investigating matters and imposing sanctions where violations have been found.

CFP Board has a defined process for handling allegations of misconduct in violation of the Code and Standards or its predecessor Standards. It enforces its ethical standards by investigating alleged violations and, where there is probable cause to believe there are grounds for sanction, presents a Complaint containing the alleged violations to CFP Board's Disciplinary and Ethics Commission (Commission). The Commission meets at least six times a year to review any matter in which CFP Board has alleged that a CFP professional has violated the Code and Standards, or its predecessor Standards. The Commission functions in accordance with the Procedural Rules and reviews all matters on a case-by-case basis, considering the details specific to an individual case.

If the Commission determines there are grounds for sanction, then it may impose a private or public sanction, depending on the seriousness of the matter. More information on CFP Board's enforcement process can be found at CFP.net/ethics/enforcement.

ABOUT CFP BOARD

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. is the professional body for personal financial planners in the U.S. CFP Board sets standards for financial planning and administers the prestigious CFP certification  one of the most respected certifications in financial services  so that the public has access to and benefits from competent and ethical financial planning. CFP Board, along with its Center for Financial Planning, is committed to increasing the public's awareness of CFP certification and access to a diverse, ethical and competent financial planning workforce. Widely recognized by firms and consumer groups as the standard for financial planning, CFP certification is held by more than 92,000 people in the United States.

SOURCE Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has initiated its 12-month status review of the western gray wolf, the agency said in a letter sent Monday to interested parties.

Last summer, ahead of controversial wolf hunts planned in Montana and Idaho, conservation groups filed two petitions with the Fish and Wildlife Service calling for emergency relisting of the species. The agency announced in September that the petitioners concerns about the threat of hunting were credible enough for it to initiate a full status review.

Our finding concluded that the petitions presented substantial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted, the letter read. Therefore, we have initiated a status review to determine whether the petitioned actions are warranted.

Gray wolves were eradicated from Yellowstone National Park in the 1920s and successfully reintroduced in 1995. The start of the status review follows outcry over the deaths of 23 Yellowstone wolves in Montana since the start of that states wolf hunt.

Montanas wildlife commissioners voted Jan. 28 to suspend wolf hunting near the park once 82 wolves were killed in the region. As of last Friday, there had been 76 known wolf deaths near the park, and the Yellowstone wolf population had fallen to 91, the Associated Press reported. Yellowstone officials declared the Phantom Lake wolf pack eliminated due to hunting earlier this year.

Opponents of Montanas hunt warned last summer that it could lead to the deaths of up to 85% of Montanas roughly 1,200 wolves, as well as 90% of Idahos roughly 1,500 wolves by the end of this hunting season.

Wyoming, home to fewer wolves than its neighbors, drew less ire for its planned hunt  it set a 47-wolf quota this year  but would likely also be affected if wolves federal protections are restored in Montana and Idaho, eliminating hunting.

The gray wolf has been delisted and relisted several times across the three states. The species was last removed from the endangered species list in 2011 for Idaho and Montana, and in 2017 for Wyoming.

In Wyoming, wolves have been successfully managed by our states wildlife experts since regaining authority in 2017, Gov. Mark Gordon said in a statement on Thursday. I firmly stand behind our state wolf management plan that has served as our guide to ensure a viable, healthy population for a species that has met all recovery criteria for nearly two decades.

Gordon urged the Fish and Wildlife Service to leave Wyomings gray wolves under state management.

The petitioners, who believe that wolf hunting has caused excessive harm to the species in all three states, say the hunts underway in Montana and Idaho are unjustifiable.

The agency expects to issue its recommendation by Sept. 30.
Beverly Hills , Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

In this episode of The BARE Ventures Podcast, Samir Vig welcomes Rob Hilmer, Founder and General Partner at Goanna Capital. Rob and Samir discuss how Goanna utilizes secondaries and gets access to great primary fundraising rounds as a key differentiator to its success.

Listen to Samir Vigs and Rob Hilmers discussion here.

Goanna Capital: The Mission and Background

Goanna Capital is an investment firm focused on private companies in the global internet, software, consumer, and financial technology industries. Founded by Robert Hilmer, an Australian-born fund manager now based in the US, it would go on to raise its first fund in 2020.

Prior to founding Goanna Capital, Hilmer was a part of well-respected, leading companies, with one being Coatue Management  A $40 Billion US technology focused hedge fund. Before joining Coatue, Hilmer was on the founding team of Forge Global, a multi-billion valued US technology company where he led global business development.

Now, Hilmers focus is on Goanna Capital and the distinct strategies the firm has to offer.

"One aspect of our model that's particularly unique in the ecosystem is our focus on not just primary or secondary, but combining best of both worlds," says Hilmer.



Key Differentiators, Methods & Process

Vig applauds Hilmer for his solutions to cover gaps in the current processes, and for bringing Goanna Capital to existence. The first key differentiator is the focus on a combination of both primary rounds and secondary markets.



The second big difference is the co-investment program, Hilmer explains. It gives investors more discretion of their capital across different companies, sectors, etc.

Goanna Capitals Solutions

Hilmer points out a key problem that influenced him to start Goanna Capital to begin with. At some point, large, mature companies will have stock-holding investors and employees seeking liquidity. From then, theyll go out into the open market, brokers, or whomever they can find to do deals with, leaving companies with no regulation. Hilmer advises these companies to get ahead and Goanna Capital provides a simple solution.

You dont know who is selling, when, how much, at what price, and who to, he says. Lets get ahead of that, and just allow me (Goanna Capital) to go out and buy the stock.

After agreed upon transaction documents, price, timeline, process, etc., the firm essentially cleans up the market of transactions for the companies.

Primary Rounds vs. Secondary Market

According to Hilmers comments on the two, primary rounds are the simple story that we read about in the press, and secondaries are not a well understood market in general. Elaborating on its definition in simple terms, secondary is where an individual buys shares from existing stockholders.

Overall Vision

It is safe to say that Goanna Capital serves as a one stop shop for clients, which will only broaden from here. Vig wraps up the episode by inviting Hilmer to share his vision for the firm.

Longer term, Goanna will be a multi-strategy investment management firm focused on private markets taking advantage of persistent inefficiencies, driven by fragmented, opaque market structures, says Hilmer.

One can agree that Hilmer indeed bridges the gaps within the process, and as he stated in the episode, the key goal was to solve a problem both companies and investors come across. With the methods, process, and extensive experience, Goanna Capital is doing just that.

About

Bringing together founder, operator and investor experience, BARE Ventures as a firm strives for a well-balanced approach to fund management. With an institutional investment background, BARE Ventures focuses on proven traditional methodologies combined with emerging learnings in the ever-changing venture capital landscape.

Learn more at https://www.barevc.com/.

Media Communications

Inquiries: adamtorres@missionmatters.com

Publicist for Adam Torres and Mission Matters Media KISS PR Brand Story PressWire

Brand Publicity Partners KissPR.com

For more details contact az@kisspr.com

Attachment
Police are preparing to search farmland for the remains of Muriel McKay who was kidnapped and held to ransom 53 years ago by two brothers who mistook her for Rupert Murdoch's wife.

Police met with the landowner this week after Nizamodeen Hosein, who was convicted of murdering Mrs McKay alongside his brother Arthur, revealed last month where he buried her.

Officers are preparing to search a small area beneath a dung heap behind a barn at Stocking Pelham, formerly known as Rooks Farm, Hertfordshire.

Mrs McKay's family previously employed a ground-penetrating radar specialist and presented detectives with evidence showing a disturbance in the area where Hosein said he buried her.

Banker and landowner Ian Marsh had previously denied the family access but said he would co-operate with a search of the farm if police asked him.

Hosein and his brother Arthur demanded a 1million ransom for Australian Mrs McKay, 55, who was married to Alick McKay  deputy to Mr Murdoch in the UK.

Muriel McKay (pictured in 1969), died in a bungled kidnapping after being mistaken for Rupert Murdochs wife

Nizamodeen Hosein, who was convicted of murdering Mrs McKay alongside his brother Arthur, revealed last month where he buried her

Stocking Pelham, Hertfordshire, where Mrs McKays killer Nizamodeen Hosein revealed last month he buried her more than 50 years ago

Police have announced they have agreement from the land owner to conduct a search of farmland in the hunt for the remains of Mrs McKay

In agony at the police delay in responding to their findings, Mrs McKay's daughter Dianne, 82, said: We can only wait to see what the polices next move is. Theres nothing we can do now to make them hurry up. But its an unnecessary delay.

Can you imagine 52 years later, I find my mother? I would just like to go and get her out of there. Shes been there too long.

In a letter to the Metropolitan Police, Dianne said she and her sister, 85, hoped 'that after 52 years of pain, we can finally obtain some closure'.

In response, Dame Cressida Dick, the head of the Metropolitan Police said her investigation team was 'exploring every opportunity available'.

In a hand-written personal sign off, Dame Cressida wrote: 'Yours sincerely and with every good wish'.

Dianne McKay said the letter was a 'welcome surprise' and the fact Dame Cressida was taking a personal interest showed the 'investigation is moving forward'.

Mrs McKay was mistaken for Rupert Murdoch's wife Anna Murdoch (pictured in 1988)

In December 1969 the Hosein brothers followed Mr Murdochs chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce, unaware the media tycoon had lent it to Mr McKay while he was in Australia.

They forced their way into the McKay house in Wimbledon, south-west London, and bundled the terrified mother into a car, driving her to the Hertfordshire farm, owned by Arthur at the time.

Mrs McKay, who they mistook for Anna Murdoch, was never seen alive again.

The brothers were later sentenced to life in the UKs first conviction for a murder without a body.

Arthur died in jail in 2009.

In December, Hosein, who was deported to Trinidad after serving 20 years, pinpointed to Matthew Gayle, a British barrister hired by the McKay family, where her body was buried.

He claims no violence was used and Mrs McKay died from a heart attack while watching a TV news report about her kidnapping.

The family of Mrs McKay presented detectives with evidence from ground-penetrating radar technology showing a disturbance in the area where Hosein says he buried her

Rupert Murdoch pictured alongside second wife Anna. The burglars killed Mrs McKay, who they took for Anna Murdoch

In January, the family hired experts to use radar to examine her presumed grave.

Although the farms owner denied access, the experts were able to aim a radar beam from a public footpath with Hosein directing the team via video call.

John Trust, a specialist surveyor who has also worked on the Moors Murders, said: The radar showed that the ground had been interfered with  there was evidence of some trenching which could indicate that somebody had dug a hole to bury something. It went down to about 5ft.

It definitely warrants further investigation because it was virgin ground and somebody has done something there.

In a statement issued to Sky News, Mr Marsh's spokeswoman said: 'Mr Marsh is in regular conversation with the Metropolitan Police over this matter and is fully cooperating with their investigation.

'He very much sympathises with the family and hope they can find closure over this tragedy. He now asks for privacy while the police complete their investigation.'
Malcolm Turnbull warned he would expose the minister who called Scott Morrison a 'psycho' in texts to Gladys Berejiklian - before delivering a tongue-in-cheek answer.

The former prime minister claimed to know the unnamed source when pressed on the topic by host Laura Tingle on ABC's 7.30 program on Thursday night.

'Everybody has a theory about who the cabinet minister is,' Tingle said. 'Have you got a theory about who might be the texting minister?'

Mr Turnbull replied in a serious tone: 'Yes, I will name the culprit.'

The ABC guest then maintained a straight face as he revealed the identity of the person in question with a humorous and unexpected response.

The former prime minister claimed to know the unnamed source when pressed on the topic by host Laura Tingle on ABC's 7.30 program on Thursday night

Malcolm Turnbull warned he would expose the minister who called Scott Morrison a 'psycho' in texts to Gladys Berejiklian - before delivering a tongue-in-cheek answer

'It was Colonel Mustard in the library with a smartphone,' he said.

'Colonel Mustard' refers to a character in the family board game 'Cluedo' where players must try to solve a murder mystery and identify the culprit, place of murder and weapon used.

The former prime minister did not crack jokes the entire segment with Mr Turnbull seriously adding he 'wasn't surprised by the content'.

Network Ten political editor Peter van Onselen confronted the PM on live TV with the incendiary text messages, which were sent during the 2019 bushfires, on Tuesday.

The messages were allegedly shared with former NSW premier Ms Berejilklian and called Mr Morrison a 'psycho' and 'horrible, horrible' person.

'I wasn't surprised by the content,' Mr Turnbull said. 'I was a little bit surprised they found their way into the public domain.'

'Clearly, whoever authorised [Network 10 journalist] Mr [Peter] van Onselen to release that did not have Scott Morrison's best interests at heart.'

Greg Hunt has insisted that no federal cabinet minister called Scott Morrison a psycho in texts to Gladys Berejiklian.

The Health Minister suggested Peter van Onselen was lying when he claimed the bombshell texts were from a current Liberal federal cabinet minister.

'I don't believe there is any federal minister in this Cabinet that's involved,' Mr Hunt told ABC radio on Thursday morning.

He went on to say there was 'no evidence' the texts came from a cabinet minister.

On Wednesday the Prime Minister said 'I have confidence' the texts were not sent from someone in his cabinet, possibly implying someone in the NSW state cabinet was to blame.

The messages were allegedly shared with former NSW premier Ms Berejilklian and called Mr Morrison a 'psycho' and 'horrible, horrible' person

Greg Hunt has insisted that no federal cabinet minster called Scott Morrison a psycho in texts to Gladys Berejiklian

Van Onselen brought up the text messages as Mr Morrison faced questions from the media following his keynote speech to the National Press Club on Tuesday.

'I've got them right here,' he said.

'In one, she (Gladys Berejiklian) described you as, quote, ''a horrible, horrible person'', going on to say she did not trust you, and you're more concerned with politics than people.

'The minister is even more scathing, describing you as a fraud and, quote, ''a complete psycho''.

In a statement released hours later, Ms Berejiklian said she had 'no recollection' of the remarks, but didn't deny they were said.

Van Onselen says he got the texts from the federal cabinet minister who was involved but has refused to name his source, sparking a witch hunt.

Network Ten political editor Peter van Onselen confronted the PM on live TV with the incendiary text messages

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian take a selfie after making an address to thousands of high school students in Sydney in 2019

In his column for The Australian on Thursday, the reporter said he would never reveal the minister's identity.

'The minister is the source, which is also why the veracity of the text exchange isn't in question. It wasn't passed on by a third party, for example,' he wrote.

'I'm the only other person who knows who the minister is and that's the way it will always be. Journalists protect their sources.'

He later addressed criticism that he deliberately picked his moment to ambush the PM with the messages to inflict maximum political damage.

'I was only authorised to use them recently, but I was made aware of them a while ago,' he wrote on Twitter.

'The National Press Club was the best opportunity available to put the messages to the PM and get a proper response. At a news conference, he would have dismissed that question long before it was over,' he added in his column.

Marise Payne, Greg Hunt, Karen Andrews, Paul Fletcher and Angus Taylor have publicly denied sending the texts.
In a wall text, he sets out his goals for the show: to lift a set of religious objects originating in Japan, China, Tibet and elsewhere in Asia out of the context of academic art history and put them back in the temples and tombs and devotional hands for which they were made. Many of the precious objects at the Cloisters were, like the Fuentiduena church itself, intended to advertise political and ideological might. The far more modest ones at the Wallach were conceived as intimately transactional power-tools.

Some are lovely to look at, like a small 13th-century wood-carved Japanese seated Buddha. With gilded skin and rock crystal eyes it would have glinted and glowed with life in candlelight on a home altar. A cheerfully homely sixth-century marble sculpture of the Buddha of the Future looks smoothed and darkened as if from much handling. An inscription tells us that it was custom-made for a man named Liu Shirong who was anxious to assure his mothers rebirth in heaven.

Much of whats in the show is the opposite of ostentatious or monumental. A copper and turquoise amulet box from Tibet, designed to hold a protective image or relic, is small enough to be kept in a purse or worn on a belt. In some cases, the power source of an object is permanently hidden, as in the case of a small pagoda-shaped wood stupa, one of millions distributed by an eighth-century Japanese empress to atone for the death of enemies killed under her watch. About the size of a chess piece, each stupa contains a printed incantation sealed inside, all the more potent for not being seen.
DUBLIN, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Medical Adhesive Tapes Market by Type (Acrylic, Silicone, Rubber), Backing Material (Paper, Fabric, Plastic), Application (Surgeries, Wound Dressings, Secure IV Lines, Splints, Ostomy Seals) and Region - Forecast to 2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global medical adhesive tapes market is estimated at USD 8.6 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 11.5 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 6.1% between 2021 and 2026. The drivers of market growth are identified as the rising number of surgeries, increasing incidence of diabetes, and the growing number of ambulatory surgery centers.

Based on resin, the silicone segment is expected to lead the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period

Silicone is projected to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period. Silicone-based medical adhesive tapes can withstand higher temperatures than rubber-and acrylic-based medical adhesive tapes. Over the past few years, the demand for silicone medical adhesive tapes has increased in the stick-to-skin market of the medical sector. These tapes have lower peel adhesion compared to synthetic rubber and acrylic tapes. These tapes are widely used for fragile skin, such as infant babies and elderly patients with comorbidities causing the skin to be more delicate. These tapes are also useful for repeat application on the same portion of the skin.

Based on application, the surgery segment to be the largest application of medical adhesive tapes market

Surgery to register the highest market share of medical adhesive tapes market. The high number of surgical procedures conducted across the globe is the major factor driving the market. This has also enabled the surgical wounds segment to dominate the medical adhesive tapes market by the application. Surgeries involve incisions and amputations and thus are a major cause of wounds. Most pre-or post-surgery cases require the placement of catheters and infusions in patients. As medical adhesive tapes are used to secure wound dressings and infusion lines and treat wounds, their demand is expected to increase with the growth in the volume of surgeries performed across the globe.

The medical adhesive tapes market in North America accounted for the largest share of medical adhesive tapes market during the forecast period

North America is a strong market for medical adhesive tapes. Globally, the region has been dominating the market in terms of demand and product innovation. The technological advancements drive the market for medical adhesive tapes in North America in the manufacturing and application sectors. The US accounted for the largest market share in terms of value and volume. Canada and Mexico also contributed significantly to the market. Technological advancements in the manufacturing sector have driven the market in this region. Several factors have contributed to the rise of North America as one of the leading regions for medical adhesive tapes. These factors include the ageing population, increased awareness about the benefits of non-invasive surgery procedures, and technological advancements in the healthcare industry that have propelled the growth of the medical adhesive tapes market in this region.

Key Topics Covered:

1 Introduction

2 Research Methodology

3 Executive Summary

4 Premium Insights

4.1 Attractive Opportunities in Medical Adhesive Tapes Market

4.2 Medical Adhesive Tapes Market, by Resin Type

4.3 Medical Adhesive Tapes Market, by Application and Country in Asia-Pacific

4.4 Asia-Pacific Medical Adhesive Tapes Market

4.5 Medical Adhesive Tapes Market, Developed Vs. Developing Countries

5 Market Overview

5.1 Introduction

5.2 Value Chain Analysis

5.2.1 Impact of COVID-19 on Value Chain

5.2.1.1 Action Plan Against Current Vulnerability

5.3 Supply Chain Crises

5.4 Market Dynamics

5.4.1 Drivers

5.4.1.1 Growth in Surgical Procedures/Operations

5.4.1.2 Increasing Aging Population

5.4.1.3 High Demand for Medical Adhesive Tapes in Asia-Pacific

5.4.1.4 Increased Government Relief Packages for Strengthening Healthcare Systems to Handle COVID-19 Boosted Demand

5.4.2 Restraints

5.4.2.1 Volatility in Prices of Raw Materials

5.4.3 Opportunities

5.4.3.1 Healthcare Sector in Emerging Markets

5.4.3.2 Improvements in Healthcare Systems

5.4.4 Challenges

5.4.4.1 Increasing Price Pressure on Market Players

5.4.4.2 Increasing Awareness About Advanced Wound Care Products

5.4.4.3 Implementation of Stringent Regulatory Policies

5.5 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

5.5.1 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5.5.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers

5.5.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

5.5.4 Threat of Substitutes

5.5.5 Threat of New Entrants

5.6 Macroeconomic Indicators

5.6.1 Introduction

5.6.2 Trends and Forecast of Gdp

5.7 Environmental Regulations & Role of Government

5.8 COVID-19 Impact Analysis

5.8.1 COVID-19 Economic Assessment

5.8.2 Economic Impact of COVID-19 - Scenario Assessment

5.9 Pricing Analysis

5.9.1 Pricing Assumptions

5.10 Adhesive Tapes Ecosystem

5.10.1 Impact of Trends and Technology Disruptions on Manufacturers of Medical Adhesive Tapes: Yc and Ycc Shift

5.10.1.1 Healthcare

5.10.1.1.1 Wearable Medical Devices

5.10.1.1.2 Microfluidics-Based Poc and Loc Diagnostic Devices for Laboratory Testing

5.11 Global Scenarios

5.12 Trade Scenario: Key Exporting and Importing Countries

5.13 Patent Analysis

5.14 Case Study

5.15 Technology Analysis

6 Medical Adhesive Tapes Market, by Backing Material

6.1 Introduction

6.2 Paper

6.2.1 Repulpable Nature of Paper Expected to Drive Market for this Segment

6.3 Fabric Tapes

6.3.1 Strength and Elasticity of Fabric Tapes Expected to Drive Demand for Fabric Medical Adhesive Tapes

6.4 Plastic Tapes

6.4.1 Growing Number of Medical Procedures Driving Consumption of Plastic Medical Adhesive Tapes

6.5 Others

7 Medical Adhesive Tapes Market, by Resin Type

7.1 Introduction

7.2 Acrylic-Based Medical Adhesive Tapes

7.2.1 High Durability Boosting Demand for Acrylic-Based Medical Adhesive Tapes

7.3 Silicone-Based Medical Adhesive Tapes

7.3.1 Demand for Silicone Medical Adhesive Tapes Increasing in Stick-To-Skin Market of Medical Sector

7.4 Rubber-Based Medical Adhesive Tapes

7.4.1 High Adhesion to Plastics, Non-Polar, and Low-Energy Surfaces Fueling Demand for Rubber-Based Medical Adhesive Tapes

7.5 Other Resin Types

8 Medical Adhesives Market, by Application

8.1 Introduction

8.2 Surgery

8.2.1 Surgical Procedures Conducted Across the Globe is Major Factor Driving Market

8.3 Wound Dressing

8.3.1 Rising Incidences of Wound Infections and Increasing Awareness of Advanced Technologies to Drive Market

8.4 Splints

8.4.1 Asia-Pacific is Fastest-Growing Market in Splints Application

8.5 Secure Iv Lines

8.5.1 Secure Iv Lines are Useful due to Decreased Risk of Infection

8.6 Ostomy Seals

8.6.1 Ostomy Seals Designed to Withstand Moisture while Working with Body's Natural Sweat Components

8.7 Other Applications

8.7.1 Burn Injury Treatment

8.7.2 Sport-Related Fatalities

9 Medical Adhesive Tapes Market, by Region

10 Competitive Landscape

10.1 Overview

10.2 Market Share Analysis

10.2.1 Market Ranking Analysis

10.3 Company Evaluation Quadrant Matrix, 2020

10.3.1 Star

10.3.2 Emerging Leaders

10.3.3 Pervasive

10.3.4 Participants

10.4 Sme Matrix, 2020

10.4.1 Progressive Companies

10.4.2 Dynamic Companies

10.4.3 Starting Blocks

10.4.4 Responsive Companies

10.5 Strength of Product Portfolio

10.6 Business Strategy Excellence

10.7 Competitive Scenario

10.7.1 Market Evaluation Framework

10.7.2 Market Evaluation Matrix

10.8 Strategic Developments

10.8.1 Mergers & Acquisitions

10.8.2 Investments & Expansions

10.8.3 New Product Launches

11 Company Profiles

11.1 Key Players

11.1.1 3M Company

11.1.2 Medtronic plc.

11.1.3 Medline Industries, Inc.

11.1.4 Nitto Denko Corporation

11.1.5 Johnson & Johnson

11.1.6 Smith & Nephew plc

11.1.7 Nichiban Co. Ltd.

11.1.8 Scapa Group plc

11.1.9 Paul Hartmann Ag

11.1.10 Avery Dennison Corporation

11.2 Other Key Companies

11.2.1 Lohmann GmbH & Co. Kg

11.2.2 Mactac LLC

11.2.3 Adchem Corporation

11.2.4 Mercator Medical S.A.

11.2.5 Jiangsu Nanfang Medical Co., Ltd.

11.2.6 Dermamed Coatings Company LLC

11.2.7 Libatape Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

11.2.8 Cct Tapes

11.2.9 Seyitler Kimya San. Inc.

11.2.10 Gergonne Industrie

11.2.11 Dermarite Industries, LLC.

11.2.12 A.M.G. Medical Inc.

11.2.13 Sterimed Medical Devices Pvt. Ltd.

11.2.14 Pinnacle Technologies

11.2.15 Wuxi Beyon Medical Products Co., Ltd.

12 Adjacent/Related Markets

13 Appendix

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/htlarg

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SOURCE Research and Markets
BENSON, Minn. (AP)  The newspaper hit the front porches of the wind-scarred prairie town on a Thursday afternoon: Coronavirus numbers were spiking in the farming communities of western Minnesota.

"Covid-19 cases straining rural clinics, hospitals, staff," read the front-page headline. Vaccinate to protect yourselves, health officials urged.

But ask around Benson, stroll its three-block business district, and some would tell a different story: The Swift County Monitor-News, the tiny newspaper that's reported the news here since 1886, is not telling the truth. The vaccine is untested, they say, dangerous. And some will go further: People, they'll tell you, are being killed by COVID-19 vaccinations.

One little town. Three thousand people. Two starkly different realities.

It's another measure of how, in an America increasingly split by warring visions of itself, division doesn't just play out on cable television, or in mayhem at the U.S. Capitol.

It has seeped into the American fabric, all the way to Benson's 12th Street, where two neighbors -- each in his own well-kept, century-old home -- can live in different worlds.

In one house is Reed Anfinson, publisher, editor, photographer and reporter for the Monitor-News. Most weeks, he writes every story on the paper's front page. He wrote that story on clinics struggling with COVID-19.

He's not the most popular man in the county. Lots of people disagree with his politics. He deals with the occasional veiled threat. Sometimes, he grudgingly worries about his safety.

While his editorials lean left, he works hard to report the news straight. But in an America of competing visions, some here say he has taken sides.

Nowhere in the Monitor-News, for example, will you find reports that local people are dying because they've been inoculated.

"There are no alternative facts," Anfinson says. "There is just the truth."

But whose truth?

His neighbor, Jason Wolter, is a thoughtful, broad-shouldered Lutheran pastor who reads widely and measures his words carefully. He also suspects Democrats are using the coronavirus pandemic as a political tool, doubts President Joe Biden was legitimately elected and is certain that COVID-19 vaccines kill people.

He hasn't seen the death certificates and hasn't contacted health authorities, but he's sure the vaccine deaths occurred: "I just know that I'm doing their funerals."

He's also certain that information "will never make it into the newspaper."

Wolter's frustration boils over during a late breakfast in a town cafe. Seated with a reporter, he starts talking as if Anfinson is there.

"You're lying to people," he says. "You flat-out lie about things."

***

"In rural Minnesota we still have a work ethic, and I'll call them Christian values, and that's not reflected in our local newspaper," said Al Saunders, a farmer and friend of Wolter's who graduated from Benson High School a couple years after Anfinson.

"I just can't stomach it anymore," said Saunders, whose family settled on part of his sprawling farm more than a century ago, and who speaks almost lovingly about the rich brown soil. Anfinson's editorials on farm subsidies and politics leave him fuming. "Trash gets thrown at you so many times and eventually you just give up."

He grudgingly subscribes to the Monitor-News, which has a circulation of roughly 2,000. But just to follow local politics.

Anfinson does cover Swift County intensely -- the city council, the county commissioners, the school board and nearly every other gathering of consequence. He's there for school concerts, community fund-raisers, elections and livestock judging at the county fair. His white Jeep is often spattered with mud from the county's dirt roads.

He works relentlessly. Wednesday afternoons, after he gets that week's edition ready for printing the next morning, often count as his weekend.

Anfinson is 67 but looks at least a decade younger. A contemplative man who casually quotes Voltaire, he loves newspapers deeply, and mourns the hundreds of small-town papers that have gone under in recent years.

Still, Anfinson sometimes is surprised to find himself in Benson.

Family is a powerful force here, and this town is knitted together in ways that few Americans understand anymore. His grandfather, a poetry-loving plumber and child of Norwegian immigrants, came to Benson as a child. His father came home from World War II, became a reporter at the Monitor-News and eventually bought the newspaper with a partner.

Anfinson grew up planning on a journalism career somewhere beyond small-town Minnesota. But he found those plans upended when his father's health began declining in the late 1970s.

"I thought I'd come back here just for a little while," he said. "It turned into the rest of my life."

Not that he regrets it.

He's proud that his reporting means something here, whether it's a high-school student getting an award or an expensive building project the community rejected after he wrote about it.

Still, there are times when it's exhausting. And expensive. With declining circulation and ads, he estimates his three little local newspapers are worth at least $1 million less than a decade ago.

"The easy part is speaking truth to power. The hard part is speaking truth to your community. That can cost you advertisers. That can cost you subscribers," he said.

***

It can be easy, looking around Benson, to think it is a land that time forgot.

Bartenders often greet customers by name. The town's cafes feel like high school lunchrooms, with people wandering between tables to say hello. Those in search of solitude go to the Burger King, where they sit alone at plastic tables, staring out the windows.

Benson was built in the 1870s as railways reached this part of the prairies, and trains remain the town's background music. In the cafes, people barely look up when mile-long trains roar through downtown. Few people stop talking. They've been hearing those trains for generations.

Many farms and businesses have been owned by the same families for decades: through the droughts of the 1930s; through the thriving years around World War II; to the population decline that began in the 1950s.

But plenty has changed.

Stores closed. Little farms were bought up by more successful farmers. Families left. Swift County's population has dropped about 30 percent since 1960, and now has about 10,000 residents. Meanwhile, a county that was 98% white in 1990 has seen a stream of new minority residents, particularly Latinos. The county is now 87% white - far whiter than much of America, but far more diverse than a generation ago.

Today, longtime locals can sometimes feel unmoored.

"There are a lot of people coming through that I don't recognize," said Terri Collins, Benson's cheerful mayor, whose family has been in Benson for five generations. "I used to know all of my neighbors and now that's different. And I don't know what to blame for that."

Once, neighborliness and good manners were near-commandments here. Now anger is on the rise.

Neighborhood shouting matches are more common, a local official's car was vandalized, and a "F--- Biden" flag now flies along a school bus route. Collins and the town police chief both say they sometimes worry about Anfinson's safety.

"Ten years ago I don't think anything like this would happen," she said.

But that was then. Travel across the plains of western Minnesota and you'll find plenty of people who are bestirred by a new and often dark vision of America.

They are not on the fringes, at least by current standards. They are, for the most part, mainstream conservatives who see a nation that barely exists in traditional newspapers and mainstream TV news broadcasts.

People like the store manager, sitting at an American Legion bar drinking $3 cocktails, who calls the billionaire financier George Soros, a Jewish survivor of the Nazis and a powerful backer of liberal causes, "one of the most evil men I've ever heard of." And the semi-retired nurse who fears teams of sex traffickers she says operate freely in countless small towns.

But it would be a mistake to think they can be categorized easily.

Some desperately want Trump to run again; others pray he won't. One farmer quietly admits he worries about the growing numbers of racial minorities; another enjoys hearing new accents at the grocery store. Many are nearly as dismissive of conservative media as they are of traditional news outlets.

While social conservatism has long run deep in Swift County -- even the former, longtime Democratic congressman was anti-abortion and pro-gun rights -- many say the presidency of Barack Obama marked a change.

Gay marriage was legalized and identity politics took hold. Growing calls for transgender rights seemed like an issue from another planet. The sometimes-violent racial justice protests that followed police killings of Black men had some here stocking up on ammunition.

Trump's cries that he loved America resonated in an area where new approaches to teaching U.S. history, with an increased focus on race, were confounding.

So in a county where Obama won with 55% of the vote in 2008, Trump won with 64% percent in 2020.

"We've seen a shift here in Swift County," said Al Saunders. "But you won't see that in the newspaper."

***

Anfinson's weekly column, where he writes about everything from political divisions to rural housing shortages, is a local lightning rod.

He sighed: "That editorial page will have people hate me."

Across the U.S., many smaller newspapers, already facing economic decline with the rise of the internet, have cut back or completely stopped running editorials, trying to hold onto conservative readers who increasingly see them as local arms of a fake news universe.

But Anfinson won't consider that, even if sometimes he feels like he's tilting at angry, small-town windmills. He says it's his duty to expose people to new ideas, even unpopular ideas like stricter gun control.

The editorial page is, he says "the soul of a newspaper in a way."

"I would be a traitor to the cause of journalism, of community newspapers," by giving up on editorials, he said. "I would be cowardly."

Some would call him stubborn, and his wife and business partner, Shelly, would not disagree. It can be complicated being married to Reed Anfinson.

Like the day last spring, when Anfinson was in the bar next to the office and a man loudly told a friend that Anfinson was a communist and "somebody should do something about that guy."

Anfinson knows the man. So does Shelly. A longtime dental hygienist, she cleaned his teeth for 20 years. She still says hello when she passes the man on the street.

"I try not to create a bigger divide," said Shelly, who, after a series of intensive classes on the newspaper business, began running another of the couple's weekly papers two years ago.

"I've definitely lost sleep over some confrontations that he's had," she said. "But do you let that stand in the way of reporting the facts?"

Shelly is warm and gregarious and easy to like. And when it comes to politics, she's not who you'd expect to be married to the man often tagged as Benson's best-known liberal.

She's a pro-life Republican who voted for Trump, at least the first time. It annoys her when news outlets talk down to conservatives. She worries that there are too few Republican journalists.

She and Reed married 20 years ago, after both had been divorced. She moved in across the street and soon he was walking her home.

She is often torn between support for Reed and worries over subscriber loss.

Still, she's been pressing him to tone down the politics.

"It is a struggle. I can tell these things to my business partner. It's harder to tell them to my husband."

***

In the custom of small-town Minnesota, the Anfinson and Wolter families get along, at least outwardly. They wave when they see each other. When one family is out of town, the other will sometimes watch their home.

"We're still personable," Wolter says. "I just don't trust him."

"He's not going to come to church and I'm not going to buy his newspaper. But we can still treat each other as neighbors."

While he believes Anfinson is sincere in what he publishes, he does not believe his neighbor has a monopoly on truth.

Wolter also knows that plenty of people would write him off as just another conspiracy monger. But he's far more complicated.

He worries his conservative opinions color what he believes: "There are times when I've thought: 'Well, what if all my angst over this is misplaced?'" he said. "Maybe everyone else is right?"

But he worries more about America: "This is a dark time."

He criticizes conservative politicians for trying to make it illegal to burn the American flag, but worries about far-right accusations that that U.S. soldiers are hunting down American conservatives.

"Maybe five or 10 years ago, I would have said 'That's crazy!'" he said. "Now I acknowledge it might be possible. I'm not saying I think it's happening, but at least I don't dismiss it the way that I would have."

Wolter, whose home library includes everything from Sophocles to "The Grapes of Wrath," is a careful reader, in his own way. He's wary of conservative news sites like Breitbart, believing it shapes its reporting to please conservative readers. Instead, he finds his news farther off the beaten path, like on Gab, a Twitter-like social media platform that has become home to many on America's far right.

"For better or for worse I don't really trust anything I read," he says. The answer, he said, is research, probing the farthest corners of the internet.

The answers are not to be found, he insists, in the Swift Country Monitor-News.

Anfinson, for his part, doesn't want to talk about Wolter, at least not directly. He's watched Benson's fragile web of community fray too much.

Instead, he talks proudly about the Monitor-News: how it prints letters to the editor that are harshly critical of it; how he reports the truth even if it costs him; how his coverage of the pandemic goes to the heart of journalists' responsibility to keep their communities safe.

He mourns how some people see him as an enemy. His newspaper should bind people together, he says. Instead, America and Benson are growing angrier. Contentious midterm elections loom.

"It's kind of sad," he said. "But it would be foolish of me not to be aware of (my safety) with the sentiments out there."

Does he carry a weapon? This soft-spoken man says he does not.

"But I know where one is if I need it."
By Lambert Strether of Corrente

Patient readers, this Water Cooler is a little bit light, because ProtonMail had an outage in the middle of production. Ill make it up to you tomorrow! lambert

Bird Song of the Day

* * *

Politics

But what is government itself, but the greatest of all reflections on human nature? James Madison, Federalist 51

They had learned nothing, and forgotten nothing. Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Perigord

When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro. Hunter Thompson

Biden Adminstration

Islamic State leader killed during US raid in Syria [Associated Press]. The leader of the violent Islamic State group was killed Thursday, blowing himself up along with members of his family during an overnight raid carried out by U.S. special operations forces in northwestern Syria, President Joe Biden said. About 50 U.S. special operations forces landed in helicopters and attacked a house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said. Residents described continuous gunfire and explosions that jolted the town of Atmeh near the Turkish border, an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syrias civil war First responders reported that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women.  I hate to indulge in easy cynicism, but it seems early for this (unless Biden is sending some sort of message to Putin). Also, do we have a body? Or did we throw the body into the sea, as we are said to have done with Bin Laden? So long, Omicron: White House eyes next phase of pandemic [Politico]. What a Charlie Foxtrot: Emboldened by falling case counts, the Biden administration is plotting a new phase of the pandemic response aimed at containing the coronavirus and conditioning Americans to live with it. The preparations are designed to capitalize on a break in the monthslong Covid-19 surge, with officials anticipating a spring lull that could boost the nations mood and lift President Joe Bidens approval ratings at a critical moment for his party. Biden and his top health officials have already begun hinting at an impending new normal, in a conscious messaging shift meant to get people comfortable with a scenario where the virus remains widespread yet at more manageable levels. But its a delicate operation. The White House is wary of declaring victory too early, only to get hit with another catastrophic variant, a half-dozen administration officials and others close to the Covid response said. Officials are also anxious that voters will be disappointed by the idea of living with an endemic virus under a president who once pledged to shut it down completely. And they realize that it will take vigilance  and billions more dollars from Congress  to prevent the nation from backsliding into crisis once again.  No kidding its delicate. And I dont think the nation backslid at all; it was tripped up and then shoved, not least by the Biden Administrations democidal policy choices in January 2021. Endemicity Is Meaningless [The Atlantic]. Endemicity, then, just identifies a pathogen thats fixed itself in our population so stubbornly that we cease to be seriously perturbed by it. We tolerate it. Even catastrophically prevalent and deadly diseases can be endemic, as long as the crisis they cause feels constant and acceptable to whoevers thinking to ask.  In other words, endemicity is a matter of public relations. Rather like this: My friend showed me how they fixed the water stain on the ceiling in their office. pic.twitter.com/ksnF1QAtQv  Canaffle Dax  (@Canaffle) February 2, 2022 Thats our Democrats! Joe Biden Praises Mitch McConnell As A Man of Honor' [Peter Daou. Direct Left]. I worked in the upper ranks of the Democratic Party for a decade, believing the people I worked for were as interested in fighting the GOP as I was. Once I recognized that the system cannot be changed from within and that both ruling parties uphold a corrupt system, I changed my registration to become unaffiliated. That independence from the duopoly has given me the clarity to see how Democratic leaders deceive their voters. I hope that more Democrats and liberals see through the performative opposition of the Democratic Partys ruling elites. Biden, Schumer, Harris, and Pelosi are not defending democracy, they are protecting the oligarchy. Just like their friend Mitch McConnell.  Man of honor has a distinct mafioso flavor to me.

Democrats en Deshabille

I have moved my standing remarks on the Democrat Party (the Democrat Party is a rotting corpse that cant bury itself) to a separate, back-dated post, to which I will periodically add material, summarizing the addition here in a live Water Cooler. (Hopefully, some Bourdieu.) It turns out that defining the Democrat Party is, in fact, a hard problem. I do think the paragraph that follows is on point all the way back to 2016, if not before: The Democrat Party is the political expression of the class power of PMC, their base (lucidly explained by Thomas Frank in Listen, Liberal!). It follows that the Democrat Party is as unreformable as the PMC is unreformable ; if the Democrat Party did not exist, the PMC would have to invent it. If the Democrat Party fails to govern, thats because the PMC lacks the capability to govern . (PMC modulo class expatriates, of course.) Second, all the working parts of the Party reinforce each other. Leave aside characterizing the relationships between elements of the Party (ka-ching, but not entirely) those elements comprise a network  a Flex Net? An iron octagon?  of funders, vendors, apparatchiks, electeds, NGOs, and miscellaneous mercenaries, with assets in the press and the intelligence community. Note, of course, that the class power of the PMC both expresses and is limited by other classes; oligarchs and American gentry (see industrial model of Ferguson, Jorgensen, and Jie) and the working class spring to mind. Suck up, kick down. Currently, Im working my way through an example: A Top Ten list of intellectuals, chosen by a panel of judges. This is a tiny olive out of which Bourdieu is squeezing an incredible quantity of juice; more later when he finishes with it. (The example is directly on point for the subject of this section; for example, Mark Halperins The Note focsed on the Gang of 500, which refers to political insiders and journalists who influence the daily media narrative in U.S. politics.) For my own purposes, Im interested in design without a designer issues in political decision-making; how does a group (vague word) of people from disparate fields come to a collective decision  like live with it  without central planning? (A useful question to ask when we get the architects of our Covid policy before a Truth and Reconciliation Community  or the Hague.) For example, it occurs to me that a useful dynamic takes place with Keynesian Beauty Contests (the neoliberal alternative to the Wansee conference?). But we will see what Bourdieu comes up with. * * *

2022

* * *

Realignment and Legitimacy

Democrats Move to Purge Half of New Yorks House Republicans [Cook Political Report]. The biggest redistricting weapon of 2022 has always been the Empire State, and Democrats are poised to finally use it. On Sunday, New York Democrats unveiled a gerrymander that could expand their lead in the delegation from 19D-8R to 22D-4R  the largest single-state shift in the country. Gov. Kathy Hochul has already said she supports using the redistricting process to give her party more seats. The main reason for the shift: back in 2011, a stalemate in Albany prompted federal courts to draw a politically neutral plan. This time, Democrats fully control Albany  and redistricting  for the first time since the Voting Rights Acts passage. The plan takes some creative liberties, to say the least: it pairs Trump-loving Staten Island with Whole Foods-shopping Park Slope to oust GOP Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11). The proposed Long Island 3rd CD, where Democratic Rep. Tom Suozzi is running for governor, jumps across Long Island Sound to pick up more Democrats. The 24th CD pairs Watertown with Niagara County, more than 200 miles away. Militia-aligned group will control a Northern California county if recall vote totals hold [Sacramento Bee]. After two years of threats and conspiracy theories, the militia-backed movement seeking to seize control of one of Californias most conservative counties, so far, appears to have prevailed  a major victory for far-right factions vying to replace more moderate Republican elected leaders across the state. On Tuesday, Shasta County voters chose to recall Supervisor Leonard Moty, a Republican former Redding police chief, according to early election returns posted late Tuesday night. With all precincts in Motys district reporting Tuesday night, nearly 53% of voters choose to remove him. Still, fewer than 400 votes separate the tally, and local election officials caution that the race remains too close to call. But if the early vote totals hold, Motys ouster will tip the majority of the five-member board to a movement aligned with local militia members. Motys replacement will be either Dale Ball, a local construction superintendent, or Tim Garman, president of a local school board. Ball had a lead of just 33 votes over Garman. Both candidates were at the victory party Tuesday night with members of the local militia. If it proves successful, the recall represents a major political victory for far-right factions in California as they seek to take power on local elected boards across the state.  Hmm. Do we have any readers who know Shasta County? The United States is such an enormous and various country: Rather pleased with this map  pic.twitter.com/YEIamgYb3z  Erin (@erindataviz) February 2, 2022

#COVID19

Case count by United States regions:

Rise like a rocket, and fall like a stick; the slope of the downward curve is more or less the same as the upward curve. (Previous peaks  how small the early ones look now  have been roughly symmetrical on either side. But the scale of this peak, and the penetration into the population, is unprecedented.) I wonder if there will be plateau when BA.2 takes hold. Since the Northeast has form, that is probably the region to watch for this behavior first.

The official narrative was Covid is behind us, and that the pandemic will be over by January (Gottlieb), and I know some people seem to not want to give up on the wonderful pandemic, but you know what? Its over (Bill Maher) was completely exploded. What a surprise!

MWRA (Boston-area) wastewater detection:

Continues encouraging. No jump from the return of the students yet, which is even more encouraging.

The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) service area includes 43 municipalities in and around Boston, including not only multiple school systems but several large universities. Since Boston is so very education-heavy, then, I think it could be a good leading indicator for Covid spread in schools generally.

From Fox 13 News Utah:

Key screen:

Good thing the Biden Administration set up that national wastewater testing dashboard in January, 2021. Oh, wait.

From CDC Community Profile Reports (PDFs), Rapid Riser counties:

Finally, Minnesota starts to come down. There are state border effects; Tennessee, for example, reports weekly. Not sure whats happening with Oklahoma and Vermont/New Hampshire. (Remember that these are rapid riser counties. A county that moves from red to green is not covid-free; the case count just isnt, well, rising rapidly.)

The previous release:

Hospitalization (CDC Community Profile):

Only one orange jurisdiction; cmon, Guam! (Note trend, whether up or down, is marked by the arrow, at top. Admissions are presented in the graph, at the bottom. So its possible to have an upward trend, but from a very low baseline.)

Just a reminder:

As with everything else, because the United States is not a serious country, our hospitalization data is bad. Here the baseilne is off:

Hospital trick: patients admitted with covid in 10-12 days become post-covid & no longer counted as hospitalized covid patients. ICU is full of post-covid patients that are here for 30, 40, 50 & more days. Not counted in the official stats.  Dr. Natalia  (@SolNataMD) January 24, 2022

Death rate (Our World in Data):

Total: 917,600 913,960 . I have added an anti-triumphalist Fauci Line. As we know, deaths are a lagging indicator. I assume the absurdity of the Omicron is mild talking point is, at this point, self-evident. If you know somebody whos in lead my life mode, you might consider telling them their odds of dying from Covid are now worse than with the first wave in New York.

American exceptionalism:

Since Dec. 1, when health officials announced the first Omicron case in the United States, the share of Americans who have been killed by the coronavirus is at least 63 percent higher than in any of these other large, wealthy nations. https://t.co/4RDF141uCV  David Wallace-Wells (@dwallacewells) February 2, 2022

Covid cases in top us travel destinations (Statista):

Good news here too. For the time being.

Stats Watch

Employment Situation: United States Initial Jobless Claims [Trading Economics]. The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits fell by 23K to 238K in the last week of January, the lowest reading in 3 weeks and below market forecasts of 245K, as demand for labour remains strong and the impact of the spread of the omicron coronavirus variant apparently starts to fade. The 4-week moving average which removes week-to-week volatility was 255K, the highest level since mid-November.

Manufacturing: United States Factory Orders [Trading Economics]. New orders for US manufactured goods dropped by 0.4 percent from a month earlier in December of 2021, the first monthly decrease since April 2021 and the steepest since April of 2020, above market expectations of a 0.2 percent decline.

Services: United States ISM Non Manufacturing PMI [Trading Economics]. The ISM Services PMI for the US fell to 59.9 in January of 2022 from 62.3 in December, pointing to the slowest growth in the services sector since February of 2021. Still, figures came slightly above market forecasts and remained well above the long-run average of 55.

Services: United States Services PMI [Trading Economics]. The IHS Markit US Services PMI was revised slightly higher to 51.2 in January of 2022 from a preliminary of 50.9, but still pointed to the slowest growth in the services sector since July of 2020. The spread of the omicron variant hampered the upturn in new business and domestic and foreign demand conditions weakened. Firms were able to expand their workforce numbers further, however, which helped to soften the degree of pressure on business capacity. As a result, backlogs of work rose at the slowest pace since August 2021.

* * *

Big Ag: Has The Farm Financial Picture Turned Dire? Ag Economy Barometer Reveals Reality of Input Price Pain for 2022 [AgWeb]. Issues with input issues are evident in the latest Purdue University/CME Ag Economy Barometer. The January barometer fell 6 points, which marks the lowest reading since July 2020. The survey of 400 producers showed supply chain disruptions arent just causing angst, prompting producers to adjust their outlooks for the farm financial picture for 2022. The sharp drop in the financial performance index this month indicates producers expect a sharp decline in income in 2022 compared to 2021. In the December survey, producers were focused on comparing a very positive income year, 2021, to 2020, which really supported the index at year end, says Jim Mintert, the barometers principal investigator and director of Purdue Universitys Center for Commercial Agriculture.  Hmm. Maybe I sh

Real Estate: Mall Customers Shop for New Hips or Knees as Surgery Centers Fill Store Vacancies [Wall Street Journal]. Closed department stores and rising vacancies, which accelerated during the pandemic, mean landlords are increasingly desperate to fill big blocks of space. Medical tenants, along with schools and warehouses, offer a way to do that. They represent the latest sign that mall owners are focusing their efforts to offset declining retail business with new offerings and services that cant be easily replicated online. Many medical providers, meanwhile, have been looking to expand amid rising healthcare spending. Malls offer cheap real estate, ample parking, easy access to highways and plenty of nearby customers.  I wonder how the ventilation is. Good, maybe? Good in public areas, bad in stores or offices? I dont know..

The Bezzle: More than $320 million stolen in latest apparent crypto hack [CNBC]. One of the most popular bridges linking the ethereum and solana blockchains lost more than $320 million Wednesday afternoon in an apparent hack. It is DeFis second-biggest exploit ever, just after the $600 million Poly Network crypto heist, and it is the largest attack to date on solana, a rival to ethereum that is increasingly gaining traction in the non-fungible token (NFT) and decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystems. Ethereum is the most used blockchain network, and it is a big player in the world of DeFi, in which programmable pieces of code known as smart contracts can replace middlemen like banks and lawyers in certain types of business transactions.  Certain types is doing a lot of work, there.

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Todays Fear & Greed Index: 34 Fear (previous close: 36 Fear) [CNN]. One week ago: 33 (Fear). (0 is Extreme Fear; 100 is Extreme Greed). Last updated Feb 3 at 1:29pm.

Feral Hog Watch

30-50 feral hogs guy feels vindicated after reports of California being overrun by pigs go viral [Daily Dot (MT_Wild)]. The man who was mocked on Twitter in 2019 for raising concerns about feral hogs is now being defended as a modern-day prophet due to a feral swine bomb that is ravaging the San Francisco Bay Area. [Arkansas resident Willie McNabb] says that not a day has gone by since 2019 where he hasnt been reminded of his initial tweet. It feels like Im stuck in some type of perpetual groundhog daylike Im reliving the same day over and over again, he said. I do remember feeling when the tweet first happened a bit overwhelmedwhich was most likely my naivete about social media and how far-reaching it can be. McNabb says his intention was never to politicize the gun debate and that the longevity of his tweet speaks to legitimate concerns regarding the spread of feral hogs. The current praise of McNabb also seems to be divorced from the gun control debate as well, with the majority of users focused on the growing feral pig phenomenon. My state of Arkansas received $3.4 million from the Federal Government three months after my tweet, he said. There have been many great articles written and segments produced on various media platforms about feral hogs since then. All of these things help address the issue that they are real and a real problem for millions of Americans. McNabb says overall his interactions online have been positive and that he enjoys the memes. I quickly learned to be more careful in what I say, and how I express my thoughts. As I tell my kidsyou can only control what you can controland that starts with how we speak to each other, he added. Be respectful, kind, and decentyou never know where someone is coming from until you engage and listen.'  Perhaps a little too much self-professed country wisdom, here. Nevertheless I dont think Ive ever posted on feral hogs, at least not in the last decade. Perhaps I should!

Class Warfare

So, having destroyed the very notion of public health, we will have destroyed public education as well:

New NEA poll of teachers  55% say they will leave teaching sooner than they had originally planned 90% say that feeling burned out is a serious problem  80% report unfilled job openings have led to more work obligations for those left https://t.co/g50OExE260  Adam H. Johnson (@adamjohnsonNYC) February 3, 2022

Go long charters, I suppose.

Efforts to scrap school mask rules may run into parent opposition, polls show [ChalkBeat]. A Chalkbeat review of over a dozen polls since this summer found that support for masking in schools consistently outstrips opposition among parents and the general public. That could change, of course, and a substantial and vocal minority of parents have opposed masking requirements. The existing polling, though, suggests that masking rules might be difficult to quickly dislodge. Most recently, a January poll conducted for the New York Times found that 68% of Americans backed required masking for students in order to try to control the spread of the omicron variant. A separate survey from December found that only 28% of adults supported in-person schooling without masking during a COVID spike.  The official and official-adjacent propaganda on masking is so thick; and oddly, the voices of the minority are constantly amplified.

News of the Wired

If Were Going to Live With COVID-19, Its Time to Clean Our Indoor Air Properly [Time]. The relationship of room ventilation to risk of infection isnt linearthat is, doubling of ventilation rate further reduces the concentration of air contaminants by only about half. This means that doubling poor ventilation from 1 ACH to 2 ACH provides relatively greater improvement in protection for room occupants than, for example, the increased protection from doubling ventilation from 6-12 ACH. This is because when air contaminants are low, much more air movement is required to dilute and remove them. Moreover, increases ventilation rates are costly, often requiring larger fans, blowers, ventilation ducts, and more electricity, as well as greater heating, cooling, and dehumidification capacity. At the same time, as noted, for the much more infectious Omicon variant, very high ventilation rates are needed to keep up with high viral concentrations and infectiousness . Therefore, because mechanical ventilation may not be sufficient to reduce the risk of infection, mechanical ventilation in public buildings should be supplemented by other methods of air disinfection. For current and future viral pathogens like SARS-CoV-19, relatively high levels of equivalent ventilation by supplemental air disinfection will be needed.  I dont think the ventilation community understands that the meta-policy of live with Covid is to do the absolute minimum. Or worse. Im just waiting for Johns Hopkins Institute for the Applied Economics, Global Health, and the Study of Business Enterprise  so very many tells in that name  to come out with another meta-study showing that ventilation should be halved, not doubled.

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Contact information for plants: Readers, feel free to contact me at lambert [UNDERSCORE] strether [DOT] corrente [AT] yahoo [DOT] com, to (a) find out how to send me a check if you are allergic to PayPal and (b) to find out how to send me images of plants. Vegetables are fine! Fungi and coral are deemed to be honorary plants! If you want your handle to appear as a credit, please place it at the start of your mail in parentheses: (thus). Otherwise, I will anonymize by using your initials. See the previous Water Cooler (with plant) here. Todays plant (JG):

JG writes: Central Iowa. Looking westward from living room window. Generally, I dont think of Iowa as quite this dramatic.

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EDISON, N.J., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey's largest and most integrated health network, is pleased to announce the launch of Hospital At Home at JFK University Medical Center in Edison, a program that delivers high-quality acute care in the home of a Medicare patient and may ultimately be scalable to the larger patient population.

"Healthcare continues to expand beyond the walls of the hospital and this new program will help us advance strategies to improve outcomes and patient satisfaction while making care more affordable,'' said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, chief executive officer of Hackensack Meridian Health.

The program is created through a Medicare waiver, which permits hospitals to provide acute care at home to Medicare patients. The network will select patients based on factors that include diagnoses that often result in frequent and costly readmissions to hospitals: uncomplicated Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), pneumonia, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and cellulitis.

Initially the program will admit a few patients a week and provide the following services delivered in the home: two nursing visits daily; medications delivered to the home including infusions; rehab visits as needed; remote patient monitoring which includes pulse ox, blood pressure, heart rate, weight and temperature. Nutritious meals and home health support can be provided as needed.

The program was created during the COVID-19 pandemic to help hospitals struggling with bed capacity. In November 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a waiver called the Acute Hospital Care at Home Waiver allowing for hospitals to bill for acute care services that patients receive at home.

"We are proud to offer this innovative program to our community, a new approach that is showing great promise for improving outcomes, meeting the needs of our patients and continuing our efforts to transform care,'' said Amie Thornton, chief hospital executive at JFK University Medical Center.

Research shows that these programs are at least as safe as inpatient care and result in improved clinical outcomes, higher rates of patient satisfaction and reduced healthcare costs. Patients have indicated that they want to receive care at home, especially during the pandemic. According to a recent survey, 85 percent of adults say it should be a high priority for the government to expand Medicare coverage for at-home health care.

Ultimately the network plans to expand the program to other hospitals once the pilot is proven successful. Additionally, Hackensack Meridian Health believes Hospital-at-Home can be scaled significantly to include patients who are not covered by Medicare.

"This program can also provide an excellent opportunity to expand care in underserved communities where transportation may be an issue,'' Mr. Garrett said. "A major strategic priority of the network is to help reduce inequality in care delivery.''

About Hackensack Meridian Health

Hackensack Meridian Health is a leading not-for-profit health care organization that is the largest, most comprehensive and truly integrated health care network in New Jersey, offering a complete range of medical services, innovative research and life-enhancing care.

Hackensack Meridian Health comprises 17 hospitals from Bergen to Ocean counties, which includes three academic medical centers  Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, JFK Medical Center in Edison; two children's hospitals - Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital in Hackensack, K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital in Neptune; nine community hospitals  Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel, Mountainside Medical Center in Montclair, Ocean Medical Center in Brick, Palisades Medical Center in North Bergen, Pascack Valley Medical Center in Westwood, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy, Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, and Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin; a behavioral health hospital  Carrier Clinic in Belle Mead; and two rehabilitation hospitals - JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute in Edison and Johnson Rehabilitation Institute in Brick.

Additionally, the network has more than 500 patient care locations throughout the state which include ambulatory care centers, surgery centers, home health services, long-term care and assisted living communities, ambulance services, lifesaving air medical transportation, fitness and wellness centers, rehabilitation centers, urgent care centers and physician practice locations. Hackensack Meridian Health has more than 36,000 team members, and 7,000 physicians and is a distinguished leader in health care philanthropy, committed to the health and well-being of the communities it serves.

The network's notable distinctions include having more top-ranked hospitals than anyone in New Jersey, as recognized by U.S. News & World Report. Hackensack University Medical Center is the only hospital in New Jersey with the #1 adult and children's hospital rankings.

The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, the first private medical school in New Jersey in more than 50 years, welcomed its first class of students in 2018 to its campus in Nutley and Clifton. The Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI), housed in a fully renovated state-of-the-art facility, seeks to translate current innovations in science to improve clinical outcomes for patients with cancer, infectious diseases and other life-threatening and disabling conditions.

Additionally, the network partnered with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to find more cures for cancer faster while ensuring that patients have access to the highest quality, most individualized cancer care when and where they need it.

Hackensack Meridian Health is a member of AllSpire Health Partners, an interstate consortium of leading health systems, to focus on the sharing of best practices in clinical care and achieving efficiencies. To learn more, visit www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org.

SOURCE Hackensack Meridian Health
Janet Esposito, as seen on a photo on the Portage County auditor's website, is not seeking an 8th term.

Two longtime elected officials in Portage County are not seeking re-election, and there are crowded primaries with candidates who hope to succeed them.

Portage County Auditor Janet Esposito, a Republican who has served since 1994, will not seek an eighth term. On the Republican side, there are four potential candidates, setting up a crowded primary in May. They are Kristy Elliott of Deerfield, Brian Ames of Randolph, Deborah Mann of Aurora and Matt Kelly of Suffield. Democrat Brad Cromes, Portage County treasurer, also is running to replace her.

In the commissioners race, four people  two Republicans and two Democrats  hope to succeed Vicki Kline, who is not seeking re-election. Mike Tinlin, former Aurora police chief; and Ed Dean, a Deerfield trustee; are expected to face off in the Republican primary. Meanwhile, Geraldine Hayes Nelson of Kent, president of the Portage County NAACP; and Timothy Moon, an attorney from Rootstown, will face off in the Democratic primary.

Portage County Commissioner Vicki Kline, seen here welcoming guests to a Veterans Day ceremony in this Record-Courier file photo, is not seeking another term.

Kline, an accountant from Kent, was elected commissioner in 2014, and was returned to office in 2018. Before becoming a commissioner, she served as county treasurer for three years.

"I think I just want to concentrate on other avenues of my life," she said. "I want flexibility in my schedule."

Both Democrats have asked for her support, she said. However, she said, she will endorse the winner of the primary.

Kathleen Clyde, a Democrat who served in the statehouse for four terms until she was forced to step down in 2018 because of term limits, is running in the 72nd district, the proposed district that includes much of Portage County. Gail Pavliga, the Republican incumbent, is seeking re-election.

No primary is expected in judicial races. However, Judge Laurie Pittman, a Democrat who serves as judge in the Portage County Common Pleas Court, faces a challenge from Wesley Buchanan, a Republican. Buchanan, an attorney from Kent, ran unsuccessfully for Portage County Municipal Court last November.

Story continues

In the Domestic Relations Court, Judge Paula Giulitto, a Democrat from Streetsboro, is currently running unopposed to stay on the bench.

The Portage County Board of Elections expects to certify petitions on Feb. 11. Any independent candidates have until May 2 to file.

Eight issues are expected to go before voters in Portage County. They include renewal of two levies for the Rootstown school district; renewal levies for Community EMS and Aurora Fire Department; an income tax increase in Mantua from 1.5% to 2%; a renewal levy for fire protection in Paris; a local liquor option in Streetsboro; a charter amendment about virtual meetings; and a replacement levy and tax increase for police protection in Brimfield. Portage County voters in the Springfield school district will consider a 3.9 mill levy for that district, and Portage voters in Mogadore will consider a 3.5 mill levy for fire protection.

Democrats also will elect more than 100 members of the party's central committee in Portage County,

Esposito, a life resident of Portage County, has a long record of public service in Portage County. She also once served as a commissioner in Portage County, and chaired the county's Republican party from 2012 to 2016.

She was involved with the Portage County Randolph Fair Board for 15 years, a job she said she enjoyed because her children were involved in 4-H. In 1988, after her children were grown, she ran for Portage County commissioner, and served two terms. She ran for auditor, won, and went on to be elected to seven terms.

She was involved in the county's League of Women Voters. Although she was always a Republican, her husband was a Democrat, and she had friends from both parties.

"I'm 79 years old, and I'm going to be 80 in September," Esposito said. "I think it's time for a new person who has more stamina."

She made a similar comment in 2016, when she stepped down as the chair of the Portage County Republican Party.

"I've enjoyed every minute of being chairperson, but it's time for some young blood," Esposito said at that time. "Some young blood that's going to work hard."

She has met some of the candidates who are running for the auditor's office. Some of them went to her office to see how her office works. Esposito said her staff has been helpful to them.

"I've got some of the best staff," she said.

Despite health issues, Esposito is still working at the auditor's office, and she wants to finish her term, which ends in March 2023.

She said she wants to spend time with her family, which now includes grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Reporter Diane Smith can be reached at dsmith@recordpub.com.

This article originally appeared on Record-Courier: Primaries expected in Portage County auditor, commissioners races
NEW YORK  President Joe Biden pledged a stepped-up federal fight against gun violence as he visited New York City Thursday and called for more funding for law enforcement and community anti-violence programs to address rising crime.

Mayor Eric Adams joined Biden, Gov. Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Merrick Garland on a stop by police headquarters in lower Manhattan, where they attended a meeting on gun violence strategies between local and federal law enforcement.

Mayor Adams, you and I agree: The answer is not to abandon our streets, Biden said at NYPD headquarters. The answer is not to defund the police. Its to give you the tools, the training, the funding to be partners, to be protectors.

Adams, a retired NYPD captain, said he and Biden are in lockstep. "Mr. President, Eric Adams is reporting for duty and ready to serve," he said.

The president has asked Congress for $300 million for local police departments and $200 million for community-based violence intervention programs.

This is half a billion dollars of proven strategies, and we know it will reduce crime, Biden said. Congress needs to do its job to pass the budget.

I dont hear many communities, no matter what their color or their background, saying, I dont want more protection in my community. I dont know, I havent found one of those yet, Biden said.

The president's trip follows the shooting death of two NYPD officers in Harlem, the latest in a series of headline-grabbing crimes.

Biden noted the cops were shot with a stolen Glock with a 40 round magazine, and called for a new ban on assault weapons. Its really a weapon of war, he said. I dont see any rationale why there should be such a weapon able to be purchased.

Adams has staked his mayoralty on reversing the surge in violent crime, and rolled out a plan that includes reviving a controversial NYPD anti-gun unit and rolling back some of New Yorks bail and criminal justice reforms.

Story continues

Biden, meanwhile, is fending off attacks from Republicans nationally who are zeroing in on public safety.

The visit came on the same day the NYPD released statistics showing that major crime jumped by 38.5 percent in January, Adams first month in office, compared to the same time last year.

The president is here because he knows what the American people want: justice, safety and prosperity. And they deserve every bit of it. And he wants to end gun violence in our city and in our country, Adams said. Thats what New Yorkers want too. Thats what I campaigned on, and thats why you elected me as mayor of the City of New York.

He called for a 9/11-style response to the domestic terrorof gun violence.

The president cited Adams comparison of violence to a sea fed by many rivers. I put forward a plan to dam up some of those streams, Biden said. You can count on me to be a partner in that effort.

Biden also called for repealing gun manufacturers protections against legal liability, which he called outrageous.

The president touted plans announced by the Department of Justice Thursday morning to launch a national ghost gun enforcement initiative. The program would train prosecutors to bring cases against people who use homemade or makeshift firearms that lack serial numbers to commit crimes.

DOJ is adding additional staff to its task forces that target gun trafficking through the iron pipeline, which funnels firearms from southern states to big cities like New York. They are also directing every U.S. Attorneys Office across the country to prioritize prosecution of gun trafficking offenses.

Later Thursday, Biden and the rest of the group visited a Queens public school, P.S. 111, to discuss community violence intervention programs with local leaders as part of their push for increased support of grassroots anti-crime efforts.

There, the president was briefed about programs like one that helped the Queensbridge Houses, the nations largest public housing project, once go a year without a shooting. Biden said schools play a crucial role as well, as the P.S. 111 principal described how her building had been labeled "persistently dangerous."

Education, when done wrong, is violence. When health needs are not met in a community that's a form of violence, Biden said.

Earlier in the day, Adams called for $1.5 billion in new federal funding for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to pursue the source of illegal guns. The NYPD, he said, seizes guns in large numbers. But they keep coming. Were not turning off the tap, he said on WCBS Newsradio 880.

He also called for greater coordination between local and federal law enforcement on guns.

After Biden departed, Adams acknowledged at a City Hall press conference that some of the federal measures the duo called for  specifically tougher gun control, which has been repeatedly blocked by Republican opposition  were unlikely to pass. Are we going to get the help that we want 100 percent? Probably not, he said. But Ive got to put it out there. Regardless of what they do in those other bodies, were going to do our job.

Civil rights groups expressed concern that the partnership between Biden and Adams will swing too far in support of aggressive policing, even as Republicans continued to accuse the Democratic leaders of being soft on crime.

What New York City does not need is more federal resources to needlessly supercharge the NYPD, which already has the biggest budget and head count of any police force in the nation, or to impose blanket surveillance that will run roughshod over civil liberties and target communities of color, New York Civil Liberties Union head Donna Lieberman said in a statement Thursday.

In addition, Mayor Adams must not use President Bidens visit today to continue his baseless attacks on common-sense reforms to the states criminal legal system that have worked," Lieberman said.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki insisted Biden was committed to striking a balance between public safety and fairness.

He has never been an advocate for defunding the police, she said in a question and answer session aboard Air Force 1. He believes that both need to come hand in hand  that pursuing police reform is a step that will help rebuild trust in communities and is something that is welcomed by many communities and police forces across the country, and he believes that goes in hand with public safety.

Laura Barron-Lopez and Deanna Garcia contributed to this report.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

On July 15, 2021, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an urgent plea for all Americans to take part in slowing a serious threat to public health. He wasn't talking about the COVID-19 pandemic, but rather the harmful effects on personal and public health caused by the infodemicthe creation and spread of an excessive amount of unreliable and false health information.

An article from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing (Penn Nursing) just published online in the American Nurse Journal explains how misinformation was accelerated during the pandemic and how social media platforms (SMPs) amplified the problem. The article "Preventing the Spread of MisinformationA Role for All Nurses" shares the critical role nurses play in reducing health misinformation harm and helping patients, families, and communities access credible, trusted sources. It also further elaborates on how nurses can identify credible information when interacting with SMPs.

"Nurses and consumers must develop skills to evaluate information critically," says article lead author Antonia M. Villarruel, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, Professor and Margaret Bond Simon Dean of Nursing at Penn Nursing. "A study examining the impact of trust in science found that people with high trust in science were more likely to believe and disseminate misinformation about COVID-19 and genetically modified organisms in the presence of a scientific reference compared to false claims without scientific references. These findings underscore the importance of critically evaluating information, even from trusted sources."

"Misinformation has accelerated during the pandemic, resulting in what the World Health Organization (WHO) calls an infodemic. The effects include confusion and support for behaviors that can harm health, lead to mistrust in science, and ultimately undermine the public health response to the pandemic," says Richard James, MSLIS, nursing liaison librarian at Penn Nursing and coauthor of the article.

The article is based on a perspectives paper Villarruel coauthored for the National Academy of Medicine titled "Identifying Credible Sources of Health Information in Social Media: Principles and Attributes."

Explore further Battling public health misinformation online

More information: The article is available as a PDF at The article is available as a PDF at www.myamericannurse.com/wp-con  sinformation-117.pdf
Selectarea participantilor pentru un ciclu de 4 ateliere tematice dedicate lucratorilor de tineret si consolidarii comunitatii de practicieni din domeniul tineret
According to data made available by China Customs , the trade volume between Mauritius and China experienced a vigorous growth in 2021, the year during which the FTA was in effect.

Trade volume between Mauritius and China jumped from USD 726M in 2020 to USD 914M in 2021,representing a 26% YoY increase. Mauritian imports from China expanded from USD700 M to USD 878M, ora 25% increase. On the other hand, Mauritian exports to China jumped from USD 26M to USD 36M,representing a 38% increase, but that figure was slightly below the pre-COVID level of USD 39M in 2019

Analysts observe that the FTA had probably a positive impact and the signs are rather encouraging given thatthe costs of sea freight have skyrocketed and the economy slowed down significantly due to the COVID-19pandemic

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(The Nautical Lady & Dutch Yachting)

A historic Dutch bridge will be dismantled so that Jeff Bezos giant superyacht can make its way out to sea.

The Amazon founders vessel will be the worlds largest sailing yacht at 417ft long, and its 40-metre high trio of masts is too tall to make it under Rotterdams Koningshaven bridge, according to Boat International.

The yachts builder, Oceanco, have asked the city to temporarily remove the bridge, which is known as De Hef dates from 1878 and was last renovated in 2017, and the company and billionaire have offered to pay for the work.

Marcel Walravens who managed the renovation project, told RTV that it was not practical to partially finish the vessel and complete construction elsewhere.

If you carry out a big job somewhere, you want all your tools in that place. Otherwise you have to go back and forth constantly. In addition, this is such a large project that there are hardly any locations where this work is finished.

And he added: From an economic perspective and maintaining employment, the municipality considers this a very important project. Rotterdam has also been declared the maritime capital of Europe.

Shipbuilding and activity within that sector are therefore an important pillar for the municipality.

As the plans look now, the preparation will take about a week. There are a lot of cables on De Hef, and as soon as you remove the first one, it no longer works.

After that week, we remove the middle part, and with a bit of luck, we will have it back a day later. After that it will take another week to put everything back in place.

Jeff Bezos is pictured with girlfriend Lauren Sanchez (AFP via Getty Images)

The superyacht, which is known as Y721, was first spotted being rolled out of a shed at the shipbuilding yard in October 2021 and it features a black hull and white superstructure.

And not everyone is happy at Mr Bezos and his yacht being accommodated by the city.

Employment is important, but there are limits to what you can and may do to our heritage, Ton Wesselink, of the Rotterdam Historical Society told RTV.

The worlds largest sailing yacht is currently the Seacloud, which was built in 1931 in Germany and measures in at 359ft in length.
Earlier in the day, President Joe Biden announced that the US eliminated al-Qurayshi in a military operation in northwestern Syria last night. Biden added that all Americans have returned safely from the operation.

"Three innocent civilians were killed," Kirby said, noting that these were al-Qurayshi's wife and their two children.

Kirby added that "the calculated efforts" of the US forces "succeeded in protecting more than 10 women, children and babies." (ANI/Sputnik)
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg expressed concern on Thursday that is continuing its military buildup around Ukraine, and that it has now deployed more troops and military equipment to Belarus than at any time in 30 years.
She had two sons with a man named Shane Riggio, 45, however, it's not known if they were still married at the time of her death

It appears that Wendy - who was very private and didn't use social media - was living in Texas when she passed. Her cause of death has not been released

Lacey said that she is 'OK some moments' but can 'barely catch her breath because her heart aches so deeply' at other times

Lacey called her late sister her 'best friend who also happened to share her DNA' and said she 'desperately wishes she could hug her once more'

Now, more than two months since her tragic passing, the actress opened up about the pain she's felt since suffering the immense loss on Instagram

Lacey, 39, shared the heartbreaking news that her older sister Wendy had died at age 46 back in November

Mean Girls star Lacey Chabert's has spoken out about the 'incredibly hard' grief she's felt over her sister Wendy's 'shocking' death, admitting that she 'still picks up the phone 10 times a day to call her.'

Lacey, 39, shared the heartbreaking news that her older sister Wendy had died at age 46 back in November.

Now, more than two months since her tragic passing, the actress opened up about the pain she's felt since suffering the immense loss on Instagram, writing that she 'desperately wishes she could hug her once more.'

She said she is 'OK some moments' but can 'barely catch her breath because her heart aches so deeply' at other times.

'I cant believe its been over two months since Ive been able to hear my sisters voice,' she wrote.

'I still reach for my phone ten times a day to text or call her before I remember that I cant.

Mean Girls star Lacey Chabert's spoke out about the 'incredibly hard' grief she's felt over her sister Wendy's 'shocking' death, admitting she 'picks up the phone 10 times a day to call her'

Lacey, 39, shared the heartbreaking news that her older sister Wendy had died at age 46 back in November. They are pictured together as children

More than two months since her tragic passing, the actress now opened up about the pain she's felt since suffering the immense loss on Instagram. Wendy is pictured as a teen

Lacey called her late sister her 'best friend who also happened to share her DNA' and said she 'desperately wishes she could hug her once more'

'I keep calling grief a journey, because thats what its been for me. Its been incredibly hard.

'Some moments I am OK and others I can barely catch my breath because my heart aches so deeply.

'I miss Wendy with every ounce of my being. I desperately wish I could hug her once more or hear her voice.

'But when Im still enough, I realize I really do hear it. I hear it because shes imbedded in my every thought.'

Lacey called her late sister, whose cause of death has not been released, her 'best friend who also happened to share her DNA.'

She continued: 'We knew each other inside out. I hear her sarcastic humor in my head all day long!

'There was no one funnier. I see her within my daughter - Julia has always reminded my whole family of Wendy.

'We loved each other so much and that doesnt just go away when someone is no longer here with us physically.

Lacey confirmed the devastating news via Instagram on November 23, 2021. Wendy's cause of death has not been released

At the time, the actress wrote that her heart was 'shattered into a million pieces' and said her 'life will never be the same'

It appears that Wendy was living in Texas at the time of her passing. Lacey (left) is pictured when she was younger with her two sisters, Chrissy (center) and Wendy (right)

'Its eternal. I know we were truly blessed to share that kind of love.

'I realize Im only at the beginning of this journey and I certainly dont have all the wisdom, but I know for now Im doing my best to do what I think Wendy would want me to do.

'Im putting one foot in front of the other and making the most of each day. I love you, Wendy. If youre missing someone you love tonight, my heart is with you.'

Lacey confirmed the devastating news via Instagram on November 23, 2021.

At the time, the actress - who was raised in Mississippi before moving to California - shared an old photo of Wendy, writing that her heart was 'shattered into a million pieces.'

'My beautiful sister, Wendy. Our hearts are shattered into a million pieces that I dont know how we will ever put back together again now that youre gone,' she said.

'We love and adore you more than we can ever say and we will continue to forever and ever and ever. The shocking loss has left us so broken hearted.

'Our lives will never be the same without my dear sister, but we cling to the promises of Jesus that we will be together again in eternity.

'Please keep our family, especially her two boys, in your hearts and prayers. Thank you so much.'

It appears that Wendy - who was very private and didn't use social media - was living in Texas at the time of her passing.

She had two sons with a man named Shane Riggio, 45, however, it's not known if they were still married at the time of her death. She worked as a baker at the grocery store chain Market Street.

She had two sons with a man named Shane Riggio, 45, however, it's not known if they were still married. Lacey (center) is pictured with her two sisters, Chrissy (right) and Wendy (left)

Wendy worked as a baker at the grocery store chain Market Street. Lacey is pictured as a child with her other sister, Chrissy (left)

On Thanksgiving, Lacey took to Instagram again - this time to thank her fans for their 'outpouring of love,' and paid tribute to her 'hilarious, generous, kind-hearted' sister

Two days later - on Thanksgiving - Lacey took to Instagram again, this time to thank her fans for their 'outpouring of love,' and paid tribute to her 'hilarious, generous, kind-hearted' sister.

'I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your outpouring of love over our family during this devastating time,' she wrote.

'Ive been reading all of your messages and theyve touched my heart deeply. My entire family has been comforted by your loving support. Thank you

'Theres so much I want to share with you about my hilarious, generous, most kind-hearted sister Wendy and in time, I will.

'For today, on this Thanksgiving day, I give thanks for her beautiful life. I give thanks that we never ended a phone call without saying "I love you" and I give thanks that I will see her again. I miss you so much, Wendy.'

On Christmas Eve, she also wrote, 'Ive thought about my sister every minute of the day this past month, but especially tonight.

'She really loved Christmas Eve. We love you forever and ever and ever and miss you so much, Wendy.'

Wendy and Lacey share another sister named Chrissy, 44, and a brother named T.J. Lacey is pictured as a child with her sister Chrissy (left)

The actress is most known for playing Gretchen Weiners in the 2004 movie Mean Girls

Wendy and Lacey, who is most known for playing Gretchen Weiners in the 2004 movie Mean Girls, share another sister named Chrissy, 44, and a brother named T.J.

The actress appears to be very close with her siblings, and she often shares sweet tributes to them on Instagram.

'Couldnt let #nationalsistersday pass without saying how much I love my two sisters,' she gushed back in August. 'They are the best big sisters ever and I thank God for them every day. Love you, Wendy and Crissy.'

In honor of National Sibling Day a few months earlier, she also wrote, 'Happy #NationalSiblingDay to the best two sisters and brother a girl could ever have. Love you guys so much.'

Lacey and her three siblings grew up in Purvis, Mississippi, with their parents - Julie and Tony Chabert.

As a child, Lacey played Claudia Salinger in the sitcom Party of Five. She went on to voice Eliza Thornberry in The Wild Thornberrys and appear in movies like Lost in Space and Not Another Teen Movie.

But it was her role in Mean Girls that really propelled her into the spotlight.

After her time in Mean Girls, Lacey continued to act - starring in more than 20 Hallmark movies over the years and lending her voice to various cartoons including Family Guy, Kung Fu Panda: The Paws of Destiny, Shimmer and Shine, and more.

She married her longtime boyfriend David Nehdar in 2013. They welcomed a daughter together, named Julia, in September 2016.

The actress appears to be very close with her siblings, and she often shares sweet tributes to them on Instagram. Lacey is pictured throughout her childhood

Lacey and her three siblings grew up in Mississippi, with their parents - Julie and Tony Chabert. Lacey is pictured with her mom as a child (left) and at her wedding (right) to David Nehdar

Despite her and her siblings all living in different areas now, Lacey previously revealed how they stay so close. She explained that they always make sure to always get together for the holidays - no matter how busy they are.

'I have started to realize how much I love our traditions now that I'm a mom. As I'm passing down those traditions to [my daughter], it's almost like we get to relive our childhood,' she told Southern Living.

'My sisters and brother and all of my nephews - I have seven nephews - try to be in my parents' home for Christmas Eve.

'We have a white elephant-style party and and all end up fighting for a particular gift that is so silly.

'We eat and we cook the same things every year. There are recipes that have been passed down from my grandmother and my great-grandmother and my mom.

'It's stuff that I grew up eating as a child during the holidays. I love the tradition of doing the same thing year after year.

'On Christmas morning, we open presents and everyone stays in their pajamas all day long, eats a huge dinner, and we watch our favorite movies.'
PERKASIE, Pa. -- A mother from Bucks County is pushing back against book bans in school districts across the country.

Suburbs Across America said Thursday Stacey Smith of Perkasie has joined suburban moms from around the country to stop book bans with the organization Red Wine and Blue Education Fund.

It's all part of a national campaign called "Book Ban Busters."

Today marks the launch of an exciting and powerful effort to galvanize the resources and energy of the hundreds of thousands of suburban women who have been stepping up in their own communities to protect their kids education and the country they love, said Katie Paris, Red Wine & Blue Education Funds founder, and an Ohio suburban mom.

Suburban moms from Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina spoke about how they feel politicians and outside groups are trying to, "exploit parents pandemic exhaustion to impose a political agenda on their kids and their schools."

Were hoping to shine a spotlight on what the district is doing and put pressure on them to be transparent about their process and whats being removed and relocated. said Smith.

Red Wine & Blue Education Fund is also launching a Banned Book Club and a volunteer team of data moms to track the campaigns victories.

Watch a press conference on the campaign here..
Keaton was as much a technical innovator as he was a comic, and Curtiss book goes into painstaking detail about how these effects were achieved. (The spinning house was built on a turntable whose control belt was buried in dirt and grass.) Every bit as important, Buster Keaton serves as a welcome corrective to the perception that Keatons was a tragic life undone by drink and the advent of the talkies. This myth is partly a function of Keatons persuasiveness as an actor in his later years: grimly staring down his losing hand as one of the washed-up old-Hollywood waxworks who play cards with Norma Desmond in Billy Wilders Sunset Boulevard (1950) and impassively dancing the twist with the bikini-clad starlet Bobbi Shaw in the teensploitation flick Beach Blanket Bingo (1965, a year before his death).

Curtis does not shy away from Keatons rock-bottom 1930s, when he lost his creative autonomy at MGM, wriggled out of a loveless marriage to his first wife, Natalie Talmadge, and drank so heavily that he was, for a time, unemployable. But the overall picture he paints is of an even-keeled showbiz lifer who was simply happy to keep on working. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Keaton never looked down on television, warming early to its potential to reach millions. He hosted a variety program on a local station in Los Angeles and starred in clever ads for Alka-Seltzer; Curtis notes that Keaton thought of TV commercials as little comedy shorts akin to the two-reelers that he made in his youth. One Easter Sunday in the 1960s, he stopped by a party hosted by Mary Pickford and pitied the silent-movie stars in attendance. I discovered we had nothing to talk about, Keaton said. Some of them had never heard a Beatles record. They hadnt kept up with the times.

Keatons final act was a contented victory lap in which he lived modestly in the San Fernando Valley town of Woodland Hills, happily married to his third wife, Eleanor Norris, and cognizant of the renewed esteem in which his silent films were held. The lack of operatic highs and lows in Keatons life can make Curtiss straight-ahead, sequentially narrated bio a slog if youre not a committed Buster Boi, but its as definitive an account of the sad-faced comedian as one could hope for.

Dana Stevenss Camera Man: Buster Keaton, the Dawn of Cinema, and the Invention of the Twentieth Century is a welcome complement, in that Stevens, a movie critic for Slate, contextualizes Keatons achievements in a way that Curtis does not. In an elegant preface, Stevens positions 1895, the year of Keatons birth, as a crucially transitional time, not yet the 20th century but the still-illegible sign of what it might become. Marconi has only just succeeded at transmitting radio waves over a considerable distance. Freud is struck by the idea to analyze his patients by interpreting their dreams. And in the basement of a Paris cafe, the Lumiere brothers screen their moving pictures for a paying audience for the first time.

Buster emerges in the new century as an agent of what we would now call disruption. He, Chaplin and Keatons filmmaking mentor, Roscoe Fatty Arbuckle, arent just funnymen but entrepreneurs, early adopters of new technology whose smarts and foresight earn them tons of money and admiration. Like the tech bros of today, they meet a mixed bag of fates. Chaplin is the most revered but spends his later life in a gilded prison of his own self-importance and melancholy. Arbuckle is brought low by a scandal in which he is charged with killing a young actress and later exonerated, but not before his career is left in ruins. (Stevens, a fierce Arbuckle defender, portrays Keaton as a loyal friend who gives the post-scandal Roscoe work as a gag writer and uncredited co-director.) Keaton is the least business-minded  terrible at deal making, hence his never-ending gigging  but the most purely creative, a workaholic whose passion is thinking up gags.

Stevens clearly adores her subject, describing him as a solemn, beautiful, perpetually airborne man. Camera Man is less a traditional biography than a series of reported essays about the progress of the 20th century with Keaton at their center. Sometimes Stevens ventures too far afield, as when she devotes the better part of a chapter to an unnecessary examination of the Hollywood struggles of F. Scott Fitzgerald  a man with whom Keaton was apparently unacquainted  on the grounds that both men were alcoholics with marital troubles who were unhappily employed at MGM at the same time.
Idaho Education Association President Layne McInelly earlier this week had stood in front of a committee of legislators, with stories of employees at Idaho public schools leaving their jobs because they could no longer afford to work there.

Bus drivers and custodians, he said, are choosing to go to other companies that offer better salaries and benefits than those offered by Idaho school districts. Teachers are considering leaving the classroom. Part of that rests on the high prices school employees sometimes pay for health insurance.

He urged lawmakers to support a bill that could help ease the burden that high health insurance costs put on school employees.

I hear the stories constantly, he told the Senate committee. Educators in some rural districts write checks back to the district at the end of the month to pay for expensive health insurance policies. They basically work solely for insurance.  When good educators leave, student achievement suffers.

Senators approved the bill Thursday in a 32-3 vote. Its now being sent to Gov. Brad Little, who publicly supported the measure and is expected to sign it.

New fund will let schools buy into states health care

The bill creates a fund for public schools to buy into the states medical and dental group insurance plan. That one-time amount is estimated to be about $75 million. School districts will have two years to decide whether they want to join the states health care plan.

The bill also removes leadership premiums, which provides bonuses to teachers who do additional work.

The bill is part of a three-part plan to help improve the health care benefits for public school employees, said Sen. Jim Woodward, a Sagle Republican.

The other components include an ongoing funding appropriation of about $105 million to help boost funding for school employees health insurance costs from $8,400 to $12,500, in line with the amount currently funded for state employees. The other part is a one-time funding appropriation of $75 million.

Story continues

The motivation for the effort is to make our schools more competitive, in recruiting and retaining teachers and support staff, Woodward said Thursday on the Senate floor.

Several senators on Thursday voiced support for the bill, calling it a historic opportunity. Lawmakers also shared personal experiences about how their own family members and constituents who work in schools have been impacted by high health insurance costs.

Emmett Republican Sen. Steven Thayn said he thinks the plan could do more to increase teacher take-home pay than some of the other efforts legislators have made over the past few years. Much of the increases in teacher pay have been sucked up by increasing health insurance costs, he said.

Idaho senators say vote shows they value states educators

Senators also said the bill and legislators commitment to improving health insurance options for teachers is a way to show those employees how much they are valued.

Teaching is a very high-stress job, said Sen. Janie Ward-Engelking, a Boise Democrat. I know that having better health coverage will be a benefit not only to the teacher but also to the students, because we can keep our teachers in the classroom.

Many other education officials have previously spoken out in support of the bill. They said it would help teachers get access to high quality and affordable health insurance and help districts retain teachers.

Districts across the state are struggling to keep and find employees due to multiple issues and the ability to offer better benefits will help the retention of staff, said Andy Grover, executive director of the Idaho Association of School Administrators. This is especially true for all our rural districts who struggle with the increase of insurance costs each year.

McInelly said that for the first time in a long time, the educators he represents are hopeful.

Ive heard it said many times that the legislation before you would be a game changer for Idaho educators, he said earlier this week. If anything, thats an understatement.

Becca Savransky covers education for the Idaho Statesman in partnership with Report for America. The position is partly funded through community support. Click here to donate.
President Joe Biden on a trip to New York Thursday castigated efforts to 'defund' the police  calling for further investments in community policing while pledging to boost funding for the ATF to combat illegal guns.

He also defended his push to crack down on illegal guns and referenced gun control proposals  saying the 2nd Amendment is not 'absolute.'

'The answer is not to abandon our streets,' Biden said, amid an increase in shootings nationwide, and days after two emotional funerals for slain New York City police officers.

'That's not the answer. The answer is to come together, police and communities building trust and make us all safer. The answer is not to defund the police. It's to give you the tools the training the funding to be partners, to be protectors,' he said.

Biden also defended the legality of gun control efforts  pointing out that two NYPD officers were cut down last month by a stolen Glock handgun with a 40-round magazine. He called for shutting down illegal guns and the flow of guns to people who aren't allowed to buy them.

'Listen, this doesn't violate anybody's Second Amendment Right? No violation of 2nd Amendment right. There is no amendment that's absolute,' Biden intoned, addressing his remarks to members of the press.

President Joe Biden said Thursday in New York that the 2nd Amendment is not 'absolute,' as he criticized efforts to try to 'defund the police.'

'When the amendment was passed, it didn't say anybody can own a gun and any kind of gun and any kind of weapon. You couldn't buy a cannon when the amendment was passed. So why should you be able certain assault weapons. That's another issue,' he said.

'Enough is enough  because we know we can do things about this but for the resistance we're getting from some sectors of the government and the Congress and the state legislatures and the organizational structures out there,' he said.

Biden spoke during a meeting with New York City Mayor Eric Adams and officers at NYPD headquarters in Manhattan Thursday.

The administration has been unable to get gun control legislation through the GOP-controlled Senate despite recent high-profile shootings.

President Joe Biden hands a note to New York City Mayor Eric Adams during a discussion on gun violence strategies, at police headquarters, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022, in New York

Biden spoke with family members of slain NYPD Officers Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera to express his heartfelt condolences for their loss, according to the White House

Slain NYPD officer Wilbert Mora casket is carried at the completion of a funeral service at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York Wednesday, February 2, 2022. Mora was shot and killed after responding to a domestic dispute call in the Harlem neighborhood of New York on Jan. 21 with his partner Jason Rivera, who was also fatally wounded. Rivera was laid to rest last week

Hundreds of police officers gather for the funeral of fallen NYPD officer Wilbert Mora at St. Patrick's Cathedral on February 02, 2022 in New York City

Demonstrators hold a sign reading "Defund the police" during a protest over the death of a Black man, Daniel Prude, after police put a spit hood over his head during an arrest on March 23, in Rochester, New York, U.S. September 6, 2020. Biden made a case for boosting funds to help communities hire law enforcement and social workers

Biden's visit comes as almost every metric of major crime is on the rise in New York City

Biden called out defunding efforts during the presidential campaign, even as progressive forces called to roll back investments in policing in the wake of George Floyd protests, and made repeated efforts to stress that stance Thursday.

'We are not about defunding  we are about funding and providing the additional services you need beyond someone with a gun strapped to their hip,' he underlined.

'We need more social workers we need mental health workers. We need more people  when you're called on these scenes, someone's about to jump off a roof is not just someone standing there with a with a weapon is someone who also knows how to talk to people talk them down,' Biden said.

'We can't expect you do every single solitary thing that needs to be done to keep the community safe. It's time to fund community policing to protect and serve the community,' Biden said. 'But you know, it's time to fund communities, community police and the people who are going to protect them.

Biden visited New York Police Department headquarters, and spoke at a Gun Violence Strategies Partnership attended by Adams, Gov. Kathy Hochul, and local elected officials.

His trip came after thousands turned out to morn NYPD officer Wilbert Mora, 27, who was slain responding to a call in Harlem last month. His partner, Detective Jason Rivera, 22, was also killed in the shooting, 14 months after he joined the department.

'Detectives Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera are the who and what law enforcement ought to be,' Biden said. 'Their futures were cut short by a man with a stolen Glock and a 40-round magazine and I want to thank the man back to my left  I think hes sitting right there, for taking him on,' Biden said.

He asked officer Sumit Sulan to 'stand up,' amid applause from the crowd as he acknowledged the officer who shot the may who killed his fellow officers.

Biden spoke with family members of slain NYPD Officers Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera in advance of his trip 'to express his heartfelt condolences for their loss,' according to the White House. He also met Thursday with NYPD Officer Sumit Sulan, the third officer who responded to the domestic violence call.

Also attending was Attorney Gen. Merrick Garland.

'As I close I want to note, as in times of crises, both large and small the American people look to law enforcement every day like the heroes who are with us today,' Garland said in his own remarks.

The White House this week announced new plans meant to reduce gun crime. It included Justice Department initiatives to direct prosecutors to focus on violent crime strategies, crack down on the 'iron pipeline' of illegal guns transported from southern states to New York and other areas, and focus on privately manufactured 'ghost guns' and illegal sellers.

Biden's effort to talk up funds for police comes as Republicans are seeking to tag him as 'soft' on crime and a cause of the crime spike.

Republican National Committee chairman Ronna McDaniel released a statement saying: 'Joe Biden and Democrats soft-on-crime policies have emboldened criminals in Democrat-run cities across the country.'

Biden had a warm greeting during a visit to a public school in Queens

President Joe Biden greets staff of the Community Capacity Development organization during an event to discuss gun violence strategies, at PS111 Jacob Blackwell, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022, in the Queens Borough of New York. 'This man's got some guns,' quipped Biden

After his remarks, Biden and Adams visited PS 111, the Jacob Blackwell grade school, where he greeted staff in a room decked out with Black History Month posters.

At one point Adams introduced him to a trainer identified only as Mr. Bryant.

Biden shook his hand and put his hand on his tricep during a brief hug. 'Tell you what, man. This man's got some guns,' Biden said, using a colloquial term for muscles.

'No more guns,' quipped K. Bain, founder of Community Capacity Development, who was doing the introductions.

'I mean these guns,' Biden reassured, grabbing the man's arms again.
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

Gov. Mike Parson is a veteran. He served his country for six years in the U.S. Army. He was later a sheriff in Polk County for 12 years and in law enforcement for an additional decade.

This background would suggest that Parson has had some experience learning how to deal with bullies. That seemed to be the case back in 2017. After I wrote a series of columns outlining abuse of veterans in the states veterans home in north St. Louis County, Parson stood up to Gov. Eric Greitens, his fellow Republican, and pushed for an investigation that the governor eventually ordered.

Sometime in the past few years, Parson forgot how to stand up to bullies. The result is what happened this week in the Missouri Legislature. Anti-science Republicans led by Sen. Bob Onder of Lake Saint Louis refused to confirm Parsons choice to lead the Department of Health and Senior Services, Donald Kauerauf, because the longtime public health professional believes that masking and vaccines are important tools to defeat COVID-19 during the pandemic.

Onder and his ilk, most famously the man Parson himself appointed as the attorney general, Eric Schmitt, have been staging all-out legislative and legal war against any pandemic response, weakening public health laws, attacking hospital workers and people in Kaueraufs field for speaking the truth. Schmitt is suing any public body, including school districts, that seeks to mandate any vaccines or mask wearing during spikes in COVID-19 cases.

Parson lashed out at his fellow Republicans, saying their behavior toward Kauerauf was disgraceful and an embarrassment to the state.

Don is a devoted public servant who did not deserve this, and Missourians deserve better, Parson said.

The governor is right. But he has only himself to blame.

You see, even before the pandemic, Parson was making it a habit to give in to the bullies. Lets go back to 2019. That year, amid a spike of gun violence in Missouris cities, Parson held a series of meetings with mayors of Kansas City, St. Louis, Columbia and Springfield. All the mayors, and their police chiefs, wanted help instituting some commonsense regulations that would keep guns out of the hands of criminals. Parson vowed to help them.

Then the so-called conservatives on the furthest fringes of the states Republican Party  the ones who believe the only good gun bill is one that puts more guns on the street  criticized the governor for not loving the Second Amendment enough. Parson backtracked, like a turtle retreating to his shell. The cities got no help. Instead, even with police chiefs and sheriffs decrying the bill, the Missouri Legislature last year passed a federal gun nullification law that is literally defunding police and making it harder for local law enforcement agencies to work with their federal partners.

Parson knew that bill was flawed. But he kept his mouth shut and signed it. He could have stood up to the bullies. He didnt.

Or take his proposed budget last year, when Parson, following the will of the Missouri voters and the advice of his own economic experts, included money for Medicaid expansion. Then he sat silently on the sidelines as the anti-Democracy wing of his party gutted Medicaid expansion and forced a court case. Parson whimpered away, defeated by the bullies again.

In this years budget, Parson flip-flopped on the $15 minimum wage and proposed one for all state employees. Again, good for him. The House budget committee hasnt advanced his bill.

Parsons appointment of Kauerauf was a pleasant surprise. But when the states own research showed the efficacy of masks and vaccines, the health director spoke the truth and wrote of a state analysis: I think we can say with great confidence reviewing the public health literature and then looking at the results in your study that communities where masks were required had a lower positivity rate per 100,000 and experienced lower death rates.

Onder and the bullies sharpened their knives and aimed them at Parson and Kauerauf. So what did Parson do? He cowered to the bullies and became one himself, unleashing an attack on the character of the reporter Rudi Keller, who broke the story, just a few weeks after Parson verbally attacked another journalist, the Post-Dispatchs Josh Renaud, by falsely calling him a hacker and criminal for doing his job and telling the truth about a flawed state database for teachers.

The bullies who have been pushing Parson around learned their lesson early on. The governor lacks the courage to stand up to them. He doesnt really mean it when he criticizes attacks on another mans character. The man who stood up to the Navy SEAL has lost his nerve.

Throughout this process, more care was given to political gain than the harm caused to a man and his family, Parson said of the Senate failing to confirm Kauerauf. I pray that honor, integrity, and order can be returned to the Missouri Senate and that it comes sooner rather than later.

Again, the governor is right. But until he applies those same lessons to his own actions  and remembers how to stand up to bullies  they are empty words, issued by a lame-duck governor who has lost the will to fight.
Chad Wright is set to become the new tribal administrator of the Petersburg Indian Association next week according to PIA Council President Cris Morrison.

His hiring follows Tracy Welch's departure from the position after two and a half years to become the executive director of the United Fishermen of Alaska.

"He possesses the necessary skills as outlined in the job description, and he has a breadth of experience that we feel he would be able to perform the essential job functions as the tribal administrator," Morrison said.

"His experience in the areas of human resources and personnel mana...
LOUISVILLE, Ky., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Eclipse Bank, Inc., the wholly owned subsidiary of Eclipse Bancorp, Inc., today announced the addition of four new commercial bankers and plans to open loan production offices (LPO's) in the Nashville and Tri-Cities areas of Tennessee. The expansion follows a year in which the bank opened its 2nd full-service branch and announced plans for a 3rd, both in Louisville.

Kenneth N. Raff, II will serve as Executive Vice President & Tennessee Region CEO and will operate from an LPO in the Tri-Cities community of Johnson City. Joining Kenneth in Johnson City is Brandon Farmer, Vice President & Commercial Relationship Manager, and Brandy Wolfe Mullins, Assistant Vice President & Commercial Loan Specialist. Richard Camp, Senior Vice President & Senior Commercial Relationship Manager, will operate from an LPO in Greater Nashville.

Kenneth N. Raff, II, Executive Vice President & Tennessee Region CEO

A Johnson City native and East Tennessee State University graduate, Kenneth possesses over twenty years of banking experience serving in roles of increasing responsibility. Kenneth joins Eclipse from Commercial Bank, where he served as EVP and Regional President of the Tri-Cities and Knoxville regions, with 10 branches and combined assets of approximately $600 Million. Raff also serves on the ETSU Economics and Finance Advisory Board. Prior to Commercial Bank, he served in commercial lending positions with Truist (formerly BB&T) and Mountain Commerce Bank. As Region CEO Kenneth will drive the expansion strategy and oversee bank operations throughout Tennessee.

Brandon Farmer, Vice President & Commercial Relationship Manager

Brandon possesses over ten years of experience in the financial services industry, including retail sales, operations, and commercial lending. Farmer, also a Johnson City native, is a graduate of King University as well as the Tennessee Bankers Association's Southeastern Banking School. As Commercial Relationship Manager Brandon will focus on serving the financial needs of businesses in Johnson City and throughout the Tri-Cities region.

Brandy Wolfe Mullins, Assistant Vice President & Commercial Loan Specialist

A Tri-Cities native, Brandy has over twenty years of experience in the local banking industry. Mullins possesses a diverse skill set, including retail sales and management, portfolio management, commercial loan documentation, and loan processing. As Commercial Loan Specialist Brandy will work closely with local business clients, overseeing the loan closing process and providing ongoing servicing support.

Richard Camp, Senior Vice President & Senior Commercial Relationship Manager

Richard is a Nashville native with nearly two decades of banking experience, primarily focused within commercial lending and credit analysis. Camp earned a bachelor's in business administration from the University of Tennessee. At Commercial Bank Richard developed a commercial loan portfolio of approximately $180 Million and consistently ranked as the company's top producer, generating over $80 Million in new loans in 2021. As Senior Commercial Relationship Manager, Richard will focus on serving the needs of business clients in the Nashville area as well as recruiting and mentoring a team of commercial bankers.

Andrew Pyles, President & CEO of Eclipse Bank and Eclipse Bancorp stated "We're delighted to enter the dynamic Tri-Cities and Nashville markets, two of Tennessee's largest population centers. We've hired a talented group of local community bankers who share our service-focused values. Under the leadership of Kenneth and his team, we look forward to serving the needs of these local business communities."

Mr. Raff commented, "Brandy, Brandon and I constantly strive to be Johnson City's community bankers. Eclipse's service-based culture will help further support these efforts. We look forward to introducing the Eclipse brand to Johnson City and the Tri-Cities area."

Mr. Camp remarked, "I'm excited to help build Eclipse's presence in Greater Nashville. Their strong customer focus and commitment to relationships is sure to resonate within the local market."

Eclipse Bancorp, Inc., with nearly $300 Million in assets, was incorporated in 2021 as a bank holding company. It is the parent company of Eclipse Bank, Inc. which was established in 2005. Eclipse offers a full array of commercial, retail and mortgage products through two full-service banking centers in Louisville, KY. For more information, visit www.eclipsebank.com .

SOURCE Eclipse Bank
JEFFERSON CITY  Does the next director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services need to be a Christian?

That is the question after Gov. Mike Parson said in a statement Tuesday that he would only choose someone for the job who shared the same Christian values as the governor.

Parson, a Republican, was blasting conservative hard-liners in the Missouri Senate who had just jettisoned his pick for state health director, Donald Kauerauf, a pro-vaccine and -mask public health professional with 35 years of experience.

But in defending his pick, Parsons statement, which his office also shared on social media, prompted a whole new round of criticism.

Im curious Governor, is this a standard you traditionally use? state Rep. Adam Schwadron, a St. Charles Republican, asked on Twitter. Article VI of the US Constitution strictly prohibits a religious test as a qualification to any office or public trust. Considering that, I then must ask the question. Would someone who is Jewish, such as myself, be considered for nomination?

In his statement, Parson said, Don is a public health expert that is on record opposing masking requirements and COVID-19 vaccine mandates. He is outspokenly pro-life and morally opposed to abortion. Missourians know that I share these beliefs and would not have nominated someone who does not share the same Christian values.

Brian Kaylor, the editor of Word&Way, a Jefferson City-based publication founded in 1896 and focused on the Baptist faith and other topics, said in an interview he found Parsons statement inappropriate but also not surprising.

Its a little shocking just to see the governor make such an explicitly sectarian claim about who he would pick for this type of position, said Kaylor, who is a board member of the St. Louis chapter of the Americans United for Separation of Church and State, according to his online biography.

Kaylor also referenced a news release Parson had sent earlier defending Kauerauf, saying he is guided by our Missouri principles: Christian values, family values, and love for this nation.

He was already kind of framing this as a you all should just vote for my guy because Im a Christian, hes a Christian, were all Christians, Kaylor said.

The only religious reference in the United States Constitution is that there be no religious test for office, Article VI, Kaylor said. This is a public office. So it is unconstitutional to suggest that someone should be a Christian to be the director of the states DHSS.

This is a state where this director is going to be serving people of many faiths and no faith, Kaylor said, and so I think thats very concerning that a governor would send a message that only Christians need to apply to this type of position, which not only impacts any applicants, or people who might be chosen, but also sends a message to the rest of the state that maybe youre a second-class citizen.

Chuck Hatfield, a Jefferson City attorney who has worked in state government, said Parsons use of Christian values instead of plainly saying he would only hire a Christian could be the states saving grace if and when jilted job applicants start filing employment discrimination lawsuits because of the statement.

Religious discrimination in employment is illegal under both federal and state law.

He pulled up just short of saying, Im not going to hire someone ... whos not a Christian, Hatfield said. But by saying Im only going to hire people who share my Christian values, as opposed to my values, I think he does open the state up (to lawsuits) if there are folks out there who, you know, do not share the Christian religion whove not been hired for jobs.

Theyve got a plausible claim that perhaps Missouri discriminates against folks who arent Christians, Hatfield said.

Asked if saying he would hire someone with Christian values instead of saying he would only hire a Christian would save the state from legal liability, Kaylor said he wasnt a lawyer but thought the message was pretty clear.

Who shares Christian values thats not a Christian? Kaylor asked. If hes talking about some generic nonsectarian values, those arent Christian values, right? If hes talking about being pro-life, well, there are non-Christians who are pro-life and there are some Christians who are not pro-life.

As a minister, I would suggest that you really cant hold Christian values and not be a Christian, Kaylor said. The chief of all Christian values from the early church, and for 2,000 years, is that declaration, the foundational declaration, that Jesus is Lord.

Kelli Jones, a spokeswoman for Parson, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Thursday regarding the governors remarks.

The Madison, Wisconsin-based Freedom From Religion Foundation, which says it works as an umbrella for those who are free from religion and are committed to the cherished principle of separation of state and church, on Wednesday called on Parson to delete his tweet.

The ban on religious tests in the United States Constitution is one of the truly great and original bulwarks for freedom of thought and expression, Annie Laurie Gaylor and Dan Barker, co-presidents of the foundation, wrote in a letter to Parson dated Wednesday. Our Constitution is godless, omitting any mention of god or Jesus  a unique contribution of our founders.

The group also linked to a Pew Research Center article that said according to telephone surveys in 2018 and 2019, the number of American adults who said they were Christians had dropped 12% over the past decade, to 65%.

A March 2021 Pew survey found most U.S. adults support the separation between church and state but that many Americans supported more Christian influence within public institutions.

The survey found 19% of respondents wanted the federal government to stop enforcing separation of church and state, for example.

Kaylor said the episode is the same type of Christian nationalism that we saw helping storm the Capitol on Jan. 6 (2021).

Its dangerous, Kaylor said. As a Christian myself, I speak up against (it) because its dangerous politically. I also think its a heresy of the Christian faith.

Originally posted at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 3.(tncms-asset)68b1f87e-8447-11ec-81ce-00163ec2aa77[4](/tncms-asset)
A small business owner from Echo wants to bring his lifetime experience to the state legislature.

Stormin Norman Horton is running for the State Senate District 31 seat, which serves the people of Coffee, Covington, Pike, and Dale counties. State Sen. Jimmy Holley announced he would not be running for the seat after 44 years in public office.

Although Horton said he believes his life experience, including building an auto towing business, has prepared him for this new leadership role, he asks, So what?

If my life experiences are only used to get your vote, then I am no different than anyone else asking for a paycheck to fix Alabama just because they checked all the boxes of being a good person, Norton said.

Horton graduated from Alabama Aviation and Technical College with a degree in aviation maintenance, and used those skills to build Stormins Towing and its associated businesses from the ground up.

He gave back to the community with T.O.W.E.D., a program where people and their cars were taken home free on New Years Eve.

Norman is married to Roslyn New Horton, his wife of 42 years, with whom he shares four children: Cindy, a former manager for Thomas and Betts in Memphis; Brian, head IT director for Duke Schools in Raleigh; Michael, a real estate investor in Florida; and Becky, who owns an IT company, also in Florida.

Horton says he is a champion for the working men and women in Alabama and has brought his ideas to Montgomery, shepherding bills hes written through the state Senate and House of Representatives and helping to kill unconstitutional bills.

He also served as the keynote speaker in Washington, D.C., as he presented nationwide trucking industry issues to the Department of Transportation.

I will fight for your life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness, he said.

Your liberty may not be my liberty, but if it is legal and you are not hurting anyone, then I will fight for your liberty even if I dont like it. If you lose yours, then mine is next.

Horton is running against Josh Carnley and Mike Jones Jr. in the Republican primary, which takes place on May 24.

There are no Democrat contenders for the seat.
Emily Wingfield's poems can be heavy and dark, but that's the reality of growing up in America as multiracial and bisexual.

As a Black, Chinese and White middle schooler in the Pennsylvania suburbs, Wingfield never quite fit in with the Black kids at school and wasn't "Asian enough" to sit with that group. And she definitely wasn't White.

"You check off all the boxes but nobody wants you," Wingfield said.

The teenager felt a bit lost and was discriminated against for the way she looked and loved.

"I struggled a lot with depression," Wingfield said. "I've struggled with that for pretty much my entire life, and I feel like personally a lot of that has had to do with being multiracial."

There were horrible comments spoken  "Go back to where you came from" among them  and microaggressions in classrooms and hallways, not just from other students but teachers and administrators sometimes, Wingfield said. Often it was as simple as someone making fun of her curly hair; she began straightening it every day. Other times, there were racial slurs.

"And then, sort of in my mind, I was like, maybe I do have a problem or maybe there is something wrong with me or maybe I deserve to be treated this way," Wingfield said.

Struggling to belong

Despite a strong support system and deep sense of family from her Chinese-Jamaican grandfather, Irish grandmother, Black and White father, and Chinese and White mother, Wingfield developed anxiety and body dysmorphia on top of depression. In high school, the feelings of worthlessness really sank in.

But then Wingfield discovered the art of writing poems, and that became a form of therapy.

"10 Things to Do When You're Having Another Depressive Episode," "my confession? i hate mirrors" and "what are you?"  three poems from Wingfield's first chapbook, "barely there, surviving"  all tackled head-on the internal struggles that had been overwhelming her for years.

Even if when Wingfield ended up sharing those poems out loud it was to rooms of mostly White poets and spectators, there was still catharsis and healing in it.

But after relocating to Charleston during the pandemic, Wingfield thought perhaps it would be even more rewarding to share these words with people who could more fully relate.

And it didn't have to be in person; there was a whole world online.

The power of online connection

In January, Wingfield connected with five other BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) poets from across America on social media and realized there was a community like her, even if she couldn't see it in person.

The group with a goal of promoting and supporting BIPOC women poets has been titled Tenderheart Collective.

It includes Wingfield along with Yasmine Bolden, a Black writer from Northern Virginia; Michelle Garcia, a Filipina poet from Northern Virginia; Molly Rufus, a BIPOC poet from D.C.; Sofia Aguilar, a Chicana writer from Los Angeles; and Salma Alejo, a Latina poet based in Los Angeles.

They bonded over the lack of representation in literature of people like them, the struggles of growing up non-White in largely White communities and the mental health struggles that affect approximately 1 in 5 teens globally.

"Online communities can be helpful for people living in non-supportive spaces, where there are people like you and you can reach out to anyone," Wingfield said. "Something so beautiful is I've known these people for just over a week and I already feel so loved and accepted."

Tenderheart is also about creating a professional network that the group hopes will become a hub of opportunity for writers. So far, there is a Discord channel where poets can talk online, in addition to an Instagram page where the group will be posting their own and other BIPOC's poems.

There are also links to buy the members' works: Wingfield's new chapbook that she's written during her time in Charleston "The Corner of Fishburne and Ashley;" Aguilar's book "Streaming Service: Golden Shovels Made for TV;" and Garcia's book "Cul-de-sac Angels."

There are plans for a poem submissions form, Zoom meetings and workshops, and a compilation of resources, contests and BIPOC publishers.

Writing a new narrative

Tenderheart's members all have a common goal: To share their stories alongside the narratives that have long left them out of the story.

"All of the poetry I was exposed to in public school was written by older men about trees and dusty little cabins  which I was allergic to," said Bolden, whose poetry lends itself to radical truth-telling and exposes freely the hurt she's felt as a Black American.

"So many people who couldn't care less about the BIPOC adults in my town loved to fawn over the young BIPOC who were friends with their children or who made their institutions look good through academic achievement and 'diverse' visuals in their clubs and arts programs," Bolden said. "My poetry was a way of reminding them that not only could they not separate us from our parents and communities, but that I was, in the words of James Baldwin, 'not (their) negro.' "

Garcia agreed she couldnt see herself in literature; she didnt fit in with the archetypes and characters and tropes. She struggled with finding her voice and becoming confident enough to tell her own story.

"It felt, growing up, like the world didnt cater to people like me," she said. "I felt like a tryhard who always had to fight to be called on. When I expressed myself fully, I felt too loud."

On paper, she could be as loud as she wanted.

Rufus said the name Tenderheart to her represents the powerful vulnerability that society shuns these days, something she's had to embrace after her younger sister was diagnosed with a terminal disease.

"Everybody loves to pretend they don't care about things these days, like being nonchalant about everything is seen as super cool," Rufus said. "Being tender and caring is a beautiful quality all these BIPOC womxn have."

Aguilar said poetry empowers her to speak not only on her Mexican heritage but up for other marginalized people.

"With the collective and my poetry, Im hoping to combat racism, colorism, xenophobia, misogyny and overall ignorance of marginalized peoples," Aguilar said. "Despite history trying repeatedly to erase and silence us, were here and were not going anywhere."

A more representative world begins with everyone boldly telling their stories. Tenderheart is one new fountainhead.
A group, Igbos for Progressive and United Nationhood, has urged the pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, not to blackmail presidential aspirants from other zones.

The National President of the group, Lawrence Onuzulike, made the call on Thursday at a news conference in Awka.

Mr Onuzulike said every Nigerian who met the constitutional requirement to contest for the president is eligible to do so, regardless of his region.

According to him, no one should blackmail anybody for throwing his hat into the ring.

We strongly believe that 2023 is the perfect time for an Igboman to become the president of the country.

But we do not believe in arm twisting Nigerians to make an Igboman president or tell aspirants from other regions to drop their ambition.

Ohaneze should be at the forefront of rallying support for Igbo aspirants in their various political parties instead of advising or begging interested aspirants from other regions not to contest.

I am aware that since 1999, Igbo politicians have always contested the presidential election, even when some political parties zoned their ticket to other regions.

All we should be doing is simply to appeal to Nigerians, including the masses and political elite, to support Igbo candidates this time for the sake of equity and fairness, Mr Onuzulike said.

He described as a welcome development, the declaration of interest by former governor of Anambra, Peter Obi, to run for presidency, if the Peoples Democratic Party zones its presidential ticket to the south.

He described Mr Obi as someone who has the capacity to garner the support of Nigerians just like other Igbo politicians who had declared their presidential ambitions.

Obi left room for doubt, when he hinged his presidential ambition on the zoning arrangement in his party.

If the PDP must zone their presidential ticket, they should zone it to the south or specifically to the South-east.

This is because we believe it is time for a president to emerge from the zone, Mr Onuzulike said.

(NAN)
Ron Johnson was one of three Republican U.S. senators to attend a Jan. 4, 2021, meeting convened by MyPillow chief executive Mike Lindell as loyalists to then-President Donald Trump sought to gather information and rally support to delay certification of President Joe Biden's election victory.

The Washington Post reported that Johnson attended the meeting virtually, while Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-North Dakota, and Sen.Cynthia M. Lummis, R-Wyoming, were in a crowded conference room with others at the Trump International Hotel in Washington, D.C.

The Post reported: "What the senators heard from a handful of presenters were some of the most fantastical claims among those alleging that the election had been stolen  including, according to Cramer, that the 2020 vote had been influenced by foreign powers and that proper investigation required gaining access to voting machines around the country."

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The meeting came two days before the Jan. 6 insurrection, when pro-Trump rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol. Congress reconvened and certified the election results. Johnson was among those who voted in favor of certification, after first indicating that he planned to join with 10 other Republican senators in objecting to the certification.

On Dec. 16, 2020, Johnson, then head of the U.S. Senate's homeland security committee, held a hearing on the election.

"The senators hearing was part of what should be ongoing congressional oversight meant to transparently address that problem," a Johnson spokesperson said. "Following the hearing, he and his staff continued to gather information and consider allegations, that is why he joined the meeting.

More: Wisconsin attorney for Trump campaign one of first known to learn of fake elector strategy, memo shows

More: Bice: Sen. Ron Johnson says he only recently decided to run again. His actions say he's been keeping his options open for a while.

Story continues

In an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Lindell said: "I called the meeting, a few people came in and did a presentation on what they had for election fraud. And that was it."

My Pillow CEO Mike Lindell speaks before President Donald Trump's campaign appearance Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2020, at the La Crosse County Fairgrounds in West Salem.

Lindell, who has pushed false conspiracies about the 2020 election, said he never spoke individually with Johnson but praised him.

"Ron Johnson cares about Wisconsin, cares about the United States and cares about our future," Lindell said.

Asked whether he considered Johnson to be an ally, Lindell said:

"I believe he is an ally of the American people. Whether you're a Democrat or a Republican, he is for the people and wants to have fair elections going forward."

More: Official in charge of Wisconsin's election review attends conspiracy-fueled symposium hosted by MyPillow's Mike Lindell

The Post also reported the existence of a Dec. 18, 2020, memo circulated by Trump allies that advocated using data from the National Security Agency and Defense Department in an effort to show foreign interference in the election.

Johnson's office was among those to receive the memo, the Post reported.

"Staff received the memo on January 13 and took no further action," a Johnson spokesperson said. "The request from the Washington Post was the senators first knowledge of this memo, he has not seen it."

Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson, a Democratic candidate running for U.S. Senate, issued a renewed call for Johnson to be subpoenaed by the congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

In a statement, Nelson said "reports about using NSA resources provide all the more reason to place him under oath and ask him what he knew and when he knew it.

Our subscribers make this reporting possible. Please consider supporting local journalism by subscribing to the Journal Sentinel at jsonline.com/deal.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Ron Johnson took part in Jan. 4, 2021, Trump hotel session on election
On Feb. 1, Winnebago County supervisors unanimously approved of the job Ethan Schutter has done as maintenance superintendent of the county's secondary roads department, approving a salary increase.

Schutter, who has served the county for nearly nine years, replaced former maintenance superintendent Mark Johnson last February. Upon the recommendation of County Engineer Scott Meinders and supervisors' approval, Schutter will see a yearly salary increase from $65,500 to $70,500.

Meinders noted that Schutter did an excellent job of overseeing two complex bridge projects. He also said that 139 work orders were completed under his leadership, which is well above the average of 95 annually for the department. It has resulted in a low number of just 16 open projects.

I think in his first year, hes had a very positive impact on the department," Meinders said. "I think hes done very well with employee morale and worked together with the guys.

Schutter served as a secondary roads engineer and the acting maintenance superintendent previously. The Lake Mills native and resident has been with the department since May 13, 2013.

In other business, supervisors approved a 28E agreement with Care Connections of Northern Iowa. It is a collaboration of six Iowa counties: Clay, Osceola, Palo Alto, Kossuth, Winnebago and Worth County.

Its purpose is to have a coordinated system of care for citizens experiencing mental health conditions or intellectual disabilities. Care Connections of Northern Iowa strives to improve health, hope, and successful outcomes for adults and children.
A supplied undated image made available Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013 of a Booroolong Frog in the Upper Murray region of Victoria. A rare frog species has leapt back from the brink after floods threatened to wipe away their habitat. (AAP Image/ Department of Sustainability and Environment, David Hunter) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

New Breeding Facility Saves Dying Frog Population

Taronga Zoo is re-establishing Australias Booroolong frog population with a $178,000 (US$127, 000) breeding facility funded by the Australian New South Wales (NSW) government.

Booroolong frogs are a critically endangered species, native to the New South Wales (NSW) Northern Tablelands, that were almost wiped out by a severe drought in 2019 which dried up their stream habitats.

The extended drought we had in northern NSW certainly had a big impact on this species, unit supervisor of the Taronga Zoo Herpetofauna Department, Michael McFadden told AAP. Its evident they probably disappeared from some of the local streams they were found in.

To revive the species, Taronga Zoo rescued 58 of the rare frogs from their dried up habitats, with the help of the Australian Museum and the NSW government program, Saving Our Species, and moved them to a breeding facility.

That was almost all we could find of the species at the time, McFadden told AAP.

The NSW government jumped at the chance to help save this species and funded the construction of an upgraded enclosure, giving the zoo the $178,000 required to build the habitat, through their Saving Our Species program.

The upgraded artificial habitat has advanced features, such as special UV lighting, temperature controls that mimic the changing seasons, and flowing water, that can accurately replicate the frogs natural habitat.

This facility is very important for the dwindling Booroolong frog population as there are multiple factors in the wild such as drought, fire, lack of viable habitat and chyrtrid fungus that could bring the species to extinction.

The disease called chytrid fungus,has spread all over the world, and throughout Central America, weve seen between 150 and 200 species of frog go extinct, McFadden told Taronga Talks. Here in Australia, weve lost six species, that we know of today, since 1979.

The frogs only live for one breeding season and under the current conditions, without help, the frogs could fail to breed because of these conditions and will become extinct.

The extinction of any species is significant McFadden said because the loss will negatively affect the native ecosystem.

Most species have a huge role in the ecosystem, and some of the smaller even less conspicuous ones, just say a small common species of frog, the role they play in the ecosystem is absolutely huge, McFadden said. So keeping all of those species, I guess, persistent in the wild and to make sure they continue their role is absolutely amazing.

The NSW Environment Minister James Griffin has said that the government is pleased to have been able to establish an insurance population of the frogs, who are now thriving in the new enclosure.

Weve now successfully established an insurance population of Booroolong frogs, and theyre thriving in their state of the art home following a $178,000 NSW Government-funded upgrade, NSW Environment Minister, James Griffin said.

Were celebrating the success of the Booroolong frog captive breeding program, and were hoping itll ultimately help revive their wetland habitat, Griffin said. We know that habitat protection and conservation is critical for securing the future of this important native species, he said.
Principal William Shipp opens the door to direct unmasked students to the main office of Woodgrove High School in Purcellville, Va., on Feb. 2, 2022. (Courtesy of Erin Thomas)

As Virginia Students Get Slapped With Suspensions For Not Wearing Masks, Parents Direct Frustration at Governor

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va.As more and more students across Virginia receive suspensions for following a state executive order by not wearing a mask in school, parents and students have expressed disappointment at the new governors handling of the matter, saying that they feel he doesnt have their back.

On his first day in office, Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed an executive order reversing a state-wide mask mandate in public schools to make mask wearing optional. Before the order was due to take effect on Jan. 24, more than 60 out of Virginias 137 school districts announced they would nevertheless continue mask mandates, citing state health laws and CDC guidance.

The order has been challenged in three separate lawsuits: one filed by a group of 13 Chesapeake parents at the Virginia Supreme Court on Jan. 18; another filed by seven school boards at Arlington Circuit Court on Jan. 24; the third case was filed on Feb. 2 by parents of children with disabilities, arguing the mask-optional order heightens their childrens risk to serious illness.

On Jan. 21, three days before the order was due to take effect, Youngkin issued a statement saying he was confident the Virginia Supreme Court would uphold his order, adding, In the meantime, I urge all parents to listen to their principal and trust the legal process.

Administrators at the counties retaining the mask mandate, which includes all counties in northern Virginia, have latched onto this wording.

Excused Absence, Suspensions

Tyler Johnson, 18, a senior at James Madison High School in Virginias largest school district Fairfax County, chose to abide by the governors executive order on Jan. 25, the first school day after the order took effect. He told his principal that he would follow the executive order, not a tweet or a statement.

For choosing not to wear a mask in school, Tyler has been on excused absence since then. Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) had continued its mask mandate, and is one of the school boards challenging Youngkins order at Arlington Circuit Court.

Tyler said he was disappointed with Youngkins statement on Jan. 21. He said his school administrators had been quoting the words listen to the principal.

I felt disappointed, especially [since] I voted for him to do what he said he wanted to do, said Tyler.

Tylers father, Mark Johnson, a business owner and a licensed attorney, told the Epoch Times that he understood Youngkin is a negotiator. We appreciate the negotiation process and going through the legal process. However, it really feels hes backpedaling or betraying the very people that wanted him in office to do just this.

Mark said that Youngkin should probably create a middle ground for students like Tyler to have an exemption from the mask mandate. They [schools] are holding over these kids the leverage of a suspension on their record, he added.

Jarod Missler (R), with his suspension letter, and father Andrew at Woodgrove High School in Purcellville, Va., on Feb. 2, 2022. (Courtesy of Andrew Missler)

Jarod Missler, a senior at Woodgrove High School in neighboring Loudoun County, also voted for Youngkin. He was put on suspension on Feb. 2 for defiance of authority as a result of refusing to wear a mask at school.

The senior had applied to some universities, all in Virginia. He recalled that at least one college said if a suspension occurred after the application, the applicant would need to contact the college about that. It would be fantastic if he [Gov. Youngkin] was able to scrub it from our record, the student said.

Jarod is an Eagle Scout and a public safety cadet with a local police department. His father Andrew Missler, a local police sergeant, told The Epoch Times, that his son has never been in trouble. [Hes] a good kid with not a single disciplinary action. Then he gets suspended for not wearing a mask.

Scott Mineo, a father of a student in Loudoun County Public Schools, told The Epoch Times, that with his Jan. 21 statement, Youngkin pulled the rug out from under us, or actually gave the rug to the principals to pull out under us. He added that administrators cited Youngkins statement to many Loudoun County parents, including him.

Mineos daughter, a junior at Stone Bridge High School in Loudoun, received a 10-day suspension on Feb. 2 for not wearing a mask to school. Now with a suspension on her record for defiance of authority, Mineo questioned whether the honor roll students GPA would be modified as a result. Are you [Youngkin] going to expunge any sort of suspension thats on a record for not doing anything? He said, sharing the same concern as Jarod Missler.

On Feb. 3, LCPS spokesperson Wayde Byard told The Epoch Times that LCPS had suspended 29 students this week for failure to obey school rules and follow instruction. However, he didnt specify how many of these suspensions were mask-related.

The Epoch Times has reached out to Youngkins office for comment.

Tyler Johnson, 18, a senior at James Madison High School in Vienna, Va. (Courtesy of Tyler Johnson)

Religious Exemption Application Rejected Twice

Tyler Johnson is not on suspension, but rather an excused absence. An excused absence turns into unenrollment after 15 school days. And, he was told on Jan. 25 that if he went to school unmasked again, he would receive a suspension.

On the same day, the schools principal, Gregory Hood, told Tyler that he could apply for a religious exemption if he didnt want to wear a mask. Tyler responded that his religious exemption application was denied in October. However, the principal continued to tell him to get a religious exemption, according to Tyler.

Based on the principals words and FCPS Superintendent Scott Brabrands message about religious exemptions at the community virtual town hall on Jan. 24, Tylers father Mark reapplied on Feb. 1 and was rejected again.

FCPS is not able to accommodate your request to not wear a mask at school in order to ensure student health and safety, particularly given the current levels of transmission in our community, Douglas Tyson, assistant superintendent of FCPS region 1, wrote in an email to Mark Johnson on Feb. 2, citing the Virginia law (Senate Bill 1303) that would require FCPS to follow CDC guidance to the maximum extent practicable.

He continued, As Governor Youngkin has urged, please continue to follow your schools mask rules while we await guidance through the legal process. If your child is unable to participate in a particular religious observance or ritual due to the mask requirement, please provide specific information regarding the accommodation you request (for example, when, where, and how often your child will need the exemption).

The language used was almost identical to the rejection notice received in October, except for the paraphrasing of Youngkins statement.

Mark said both rejections cited FCPS policy as reasons, but didnt address the actual exemption application, in which he listed health, development, and religious faith grounds.

The father added that he didnt know anybody who had been granted a religious exemption at his sons high school. So even though Superintendent Brabrand noted at the virtual town hall that a religious exemption was possible, Im saying no. I think they [school administrators] are lying, he said.

The Epoch Times has asked FCPS about the number of religious exemption applications and outcomes, but did not receive a response by press time.

Tyler is unique for a student in that he owns a local landscaping company, and plans to continue running his business after graduating from high school in a few months. College isnt in his immediate future plans. Still, he said he didnt want to lose his high school diploma.

During the excused absence, Tyler is learning through Schoology, the schools virtual learning platform, but cannot take tests. Therefore, according to him, he may put on a mask to take a test in school for his AP (Advanced Placement Program) Environmental Science class.

However, he doesnt want to go to school masked all the time. I wanted to stand up and make a statement that I didnt really want to go along with this [mask mandate], said Tyler.

According to Mark, instead of mandating parents and students to follow school board policies until the Supreme Court of Virginia reaches a decision, school boards should follow the executive order until the court decides otherwise.

However, in Marks view, FCPS is not likely to consider this option, even if the court ultimately sides with the school board, because administrators fear losing control if parents and students are allowed to have the taste of being maskless in school.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Standard Lithium Ltd. (Standard Lithium or the Company) (TSXV: SLI) (NYSE: SLI) (FRA: S5L), is issuing the following statement in response to the false and misleading report (the report) from Hindenburg Research.



Standard Lithium believes the report is clearly intended to benefit Hindenburg Research, which itself has disclosed that it stands to profit in the event that the stock price of Standard Lithium declines. Standard Lithium cautions investors not to make decisions based on this report and instead strongly encourages them to consult credible and informed sources, including Standard Lithiums filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission prior to making investment decisions.

Standard Lithium Management

Since joining the Company as Chief Executive Officer in March 2017, Robert Mintak has built a large and dynamic team with a broad and diverse skill set. Under Mr. Mintaks leadership, management is executing a clear strategy, which has been to build a large asset base in a region which supports project development and to develop and de-risk a bespoke DLE technology that can be deployed using Standard Lithiums and its partners lithium brine assets. To date, management and the entire Standard Lithium team have achieved substantial progress by completing several scale-ups of the technology, successfully operating the demonstration plant at the facility in Arkansas since May 2020 and advancing the project towards commercialization (see news release dated Jan 20th 2022).

Asset Base

Management has sourced and developed a significant asset base over the last five years with several strategic partners. These current projects now include, among others, developments in southern Arkansas in partnership with LANXESS Corporation and Tetra Technologies, as well as the Mojave Project in southern California in partnership with National Chloride.

Intellectual Property and R & D Costs

All of the Company's patent applications are active and continue to be prosecuted in the ordinary course. The Company has a routine and established process for seeking to register patent rights in the United States, which involves various levels of review, response and refinement. In addition, the Company has concurrent PCT applications pending with respect to these inventions, through which it is seeking to obtain patent rights outside of the United States.

It is claimed in the report that only approximately CDN $ 1.7 mm has been spent on research and development. This figure is incorrect and does not include either the CDN $ 29,409,930 spent on the various pilot and demonstration plants that has been capitalized, or the CDN $ 6,932,598 spent on operating expenses at our pilot and demonstration plant, both of which constitute our ongoing R&D program, and are disclosed as of September 30, 2021 in the Companys most recent financial statement and the end of year statement as at June 30, 2021.

The Company is committed to developing its projects in collaboration with its strategic partners, and is confident in its lithium extraction technology and Demonstration Plant and will maintain its focus on executing its strategic plans and progressing towards definitive feasibility and commercialisation at the Lanxess facility. The Company will not be providing further comment on the report at this time.

About Standard Lithium Ltd.

Standard Lithium is an innovative technology and lithium development company. The Companys flagship project is located in southern Arkansas, where it is engaged in the testing and proving of the commercial viability of lithium extraction from over 150,000 acres of permitted brine operations. The Company operates its first-of-a-kind industrial-scale direct lithium extraction demonstration plant at Lanxesss south plant facility in southern Arkansas. The demonstration plant utilizes the Companys proprietary LiSTR technology to selectively extract lithium from Lanxesss tail brine. The demonstration plant is being used for proof-of-concept and commercial feasibility studies. The scalable, environmentally friendly process eliminates the use of evaporation ponds, reduces processing time from months to hours and greatly increases the effective recovery of lithium. The Company is also pursuing the resource development of over 30,000 acres of separate brine leases located in southwest Arkansas, referred to as the South West Arkansas Lithium Project, and approximately 45,000 acres of mineral leases located in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California.

Standard Lithium is jointly listed on the TSX Venture Exchange and the NYSE American under the trading symbol SLI; and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol S5L. Please visit the Companys website at https://www.standardlithium.com.

On behalf of the Board of Standard Lithium Ltd.

Robert Mintak, CEO & Director

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain certain Forward-Looking Statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words anticipate, believe, estimate, expect, target, plan, forecast, may, schedule and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, the reliability of third party information, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, fluctuations in the market for lithium and its derivatives, changes in exploration costs and government regulation in Canada and the United States, and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Companys current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affections such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Facebookwhose parent company has been renamed Metahas been battling regulatory issues, negative headlines around bullying and disinformation.

Facebook announced on Thursday that its daily user numbers had fallen for the first time in its history, reopening the debate around its problem with attracting new, younger subscribers.

The firm's founder, Mark Zuckerberg, was in no doubt who was to blame.

"People have a lot of choices for how they want to spend their time, and apps like TikTok are growing very quickly," he told investors, according to US media.

TikTok has continued its soaring growth, particularly among younger audiences attracted by its user-friendly controls and upbeat content of mostly very short, self-made videos.

"TikTok from the beginning has focused on a younger audiencethe style of the content, the music, the dancing," says Flavilla Fongang, who runs London-based branding agency 3 Colours Rule.

"Their moment has really come in the pandemic, where people were desperately looking for ways to stay connected."

In the same time period, Facebookwhose parent company has been renamed Metahas been battling regulatory issues, negative headlines around bullying and disinformation, and on Wednesday faced a huge slide in its share price.

That said, Facebook remains the world's most popular social media network by far.

It lost one million daily users in the last quarter of last year but still has almost 1.9 billion, figures that dwarf every other platform.

So does Facebook need to worry about attracting younger audiences, and can it do anything to remedy its image as a platform for the older generation?

'Boring, misleading, negative'

The company itself clearly thinks so.

It has been focused on the question for almost a decade, according to papers released last year by whistleblower Frances Haugen, some of which detailed the platform's concerns about losing young audiences.

"Young adults perceive content as boring, misleading, and negative," data scientists told Facebook bosses, according to an account from Haugen's documents reported on The Verge website.

Yet up until this year, the platform had been able to post impressive growth figures.

Analysts say this was papering over the cracks.

"It's not something that's new, this migration of younger users away from the core Facebook platform," says analyst Matt Bailey from London-based Omdia group.

"It was making up for those lost users with older demographics... but it's reached a bit of a saturation point among those older audiences."

Bet on the metaverse

Facebook has been looking at TikTok's rise with alarm and some jealousy.

The upstart app added 650,000 new users every day in the final quarter of last year, according to the We Are Social communications agency.

"This change in dynamics between the two firms can be explained by Facebook's inability to get subscribers among the 'Gen Z' group of 15 to 25-year-olds," says Vincent Reynaud-Lacroze of the agency's French branch.

"It's become a bit of a platform for the 'boomers'."

The firm has already tried to replicate the success of TikTok through its short-video Reels function, and borrowed inspiration from its own Instagram platform for its picture-led Stories function.

But neither addition has stopped the slump.

For branding expert Fongang, the bottom line is that TikTok and other platforms have the kind of functions that young people want.

"The young generation, they're fickle, they want content to move fast, with streaming and this ability to connect with strangers very quickly," she says.

"If you think about Facebook and Instagram it's about who you know in your space. Whether it's Twitch or TikTok, you can have interaction with strangers and create something magical even if you don't know them."

The stagnation with its Facebook platform at least partially explains the company's decision to rebrand as Meta late last year, tying its future to the concept of the metaversea 3D internet fuelled by virtual reality technology.

"The metaverse is their core bet on the future," says analyst Bailey. "They're probably leading that race at the moment in terms of ad-based monetisation.

"If they can translate that success into this new area then what happened over the past couple of days will be of less concern for them."

Explore further Facebook opens virtual world app to public, inching toward metaverse

 2022 AFP
Pakistans prime minister, Imran Khan, traveled to China Thursday to attend the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics and meet with Chinese leaders on cementing a traditionally close relationship between the countries.



Officials said several key ministers accompanied Khan on the four-day trip to Beijing, where discussions with President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Keqiang will focus on stronger economic and trade cooperation, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).



China has invested billions of dollars in infrastructure projects in Pakistan under CPEC, which is hailed as a flagship of Beijings global Belt and Road Initiative, which builds roads, power stations other infrastructure projects in Pakistan and other Asian and African nations.

CPEC aims to link the Chinese-operated Pakistani deep water Arabian Sea port of Gwadar to Chinas landlocked western Xinjiang border region.



Officials said they expect the discussions in Beijing would lead to further swiftness in the pace of Chinese investments in Pakistan.

The trip to China is very important for us both politically and economically in particular, said Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin, who is part of the Pakistani delegation, in a recorded video message.



We are going to convey to China to relocate its industry to Pakistan because (CPEC) special economic zones are now ready and if you do so it would be a win-win situation, Tarin said.

Khans visit comes at a time when his countrys historically rollercoaster relationship with the United States has become increasingly strained and Pakistan faces the diplomatic challenge of maintaining a fine balance between its decades-old ties with both world powers amid Beijings worsening tensions with Washington.



The Pakistani prime minister has repeatedly stated that instead of siding with so-called Cold War-like blocks, his country would like to stay neutral and help de-escalate U.S.-China tensions.



The imperatives of geopolitics have engendered new alignments in our region, which to many, are reminiscent of ideological confrontation of the last century, Khan wrote in an article the Chinese Global Times published in connection with his visit.



The September 2001 terror strikes and subsequent U.S.-led military invasion of Afghanistan witnessed stability in U.S.-Pakistan ties because Islamabad provided its ground and air routes to American forces to sustain their fight against Taliban insurgents and international terrorists.



But the withdrawal of U.S.-led foreign forces last August and the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan have upset U.S. policymakers over allegations the Pakistani militarys covert support enabled the Islamist group to seize power in Kabul - charges that Islamabad denies.

Critics say U.S. President Joe Biden and his administration appear to have downgraded ties with Pakistan, citing the absence of Bidens direct contact with Khan since assuming office more than a year ago.



The bilateral tensions and Washingtons deepening ties with Pakistans arch-rival India have pushed Islamabad even closer to Beijing in terms of meeting its economic and defense requirements.



U.S. officials dismiss suggestions the relationship with Pakistan is facing any challenges. Despite strains in bilateral ties, Pakistan is listed as the top recipient of U.S. COVID-19 vaccine donations abroad, receiving nearly 43 million vaccine doses.

Pakistan is a strategic partner of the United States. We have an important relationship with the government in Islamabad, and its a relationship that we value across a number of fronts, State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters Wednesday.



Price also dismissed reports Washington is pressing the country to choose between the United States and China.



We think partnership with the United States conveys a series of advantages that countries typically would not find when it comes to the sorts of relationships that the PRC (Peoples Republic of China) has sought to have around the world, Price said.



Officials in Washington are critical of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, including CPEC, saying its a debt-trap for developing countries, including Pakistan.



Islamabad and Beijing dismiss the criticism as unfounded, saying CPEC projects have ended Pakistans power crisis and laid the foundation for sustainable economic growth in the country.



Khan has strongly defended Chinas controversial human rights record, especially against allegations that Chinese authorities are carrying out large-scale abuses against minority Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang.



There is a lot of criticism about the treatment of Uyghur by China in the West. But our ambassador went there [to Xinjiang] and he sent us information that this is actually not true on the ground, he told a group of Chinese journalists in Islamabad ahead of his Beijing visit.



Mustafa Hyder Sayed, the executive director of the Islamabad-based Pakistan-China Institute, underscored the importance of Khans meeting with Xi, saying the last time the two leaders met in person was in October 2019.



Historically, China and Pakistan have always been very, very close but the recent new Cold War has actually brought both countries closer, with China becoming the biggest and primary investor in Pakistan, Sayed noted.
YORK  A man who ran from York Police officers has been sent to jail.

Michael Beard, 39, of Lincoln (who is also currently an inmate with the Nebraska Department of Corrections) was sentenced this past week in York County District Court by Judge James Stecker.

The case began when York police officers stopped a vehicle because of prior knowledge that Beard was a passenger, as he had an active warrant for absconding parole and escape. When confronted, according to court documents, Beard gave them a false name and took off running on foot, resisting arrest. He was unable to be apprehended at that time. The driver confirmed that the man who ran was Beard.

It was known that Beard had a vehicle in a business parking lot. A sheriffs deputy sat nearby to watch the vehicle, which had no license plates. Law enforcement officers had been told the vehicle had been disabled earlier.

Officers saw Beard sneak up to the vehicle and get it started  after which he drove off at a high rate of speed on Lincoln Avenue. A deputy joined the pursuit as Beard went past the courthouse at a high rate of speed. The pursuit continued until it left the local officers jurisdiction.

He was later arrested in Lincoln.

He was initially charged with felony flight to avoid arrest, resisting arrest and willful reckless driving.

As part of a plea agreement, the charges were amended to one count of misdemeanor flight to avoid arrest. This is a Class 1 misdemeanor which carries a possible maximum sentence of one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

This past week, Judge Stecker sentenced Beard to 10 months in jail.
The Ghana Police Service has confirmed its Western Regional Command has arrested the MCE for Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, Mr. Abdul-Mumin Issah.

This was after he reportedly described a police inspector as ugly and threatening to use his powers to have him transferred.

In a statement from the Police, Mr. Abdul-Mumin Issah has been arrested for an alleged motor traffic offence, verbal assault, and offensive conduct against a police officer who was performing his lawful duty.

The Police statement further confirms that the Takoradi MCE, Mr. Abdul-Mumin Issah will be arraigned before the court tomorrow Friday, February 4, 2022.

The MCE has been charged on three (3) counts of Assault of a public officer, Offensive conduct conducive to breaches of the peace and Disturbing the peace in a public place contrary to Sections 205, 207 and 298 respectively, of the Criminal Offences Act of 1960 (Act 29). He has also been charged for Dangerous driving contrary to Section 1 of Act 683 of 2004 as amended by Act 761 of 2008, part of the official Police statement reads.

The MCE who was driving a Toyota Land-cruiser with registration number GE 5615-20 is alleged to have driven dangerously and carelessly while approaching a police snap checkpoint at the Kwasimintsim Cemetery on Wednesday, 2nd February 2022.

When one of the police officers on duty attempted to stop him, he verbally assaulted and threatened him.
Federal Prisons Boss Answers Few Questions About Jan. 6 Inmates

At the Feb. 3 House Judiciary Committee oversight hearing on the countrys prisons, members had the chance to ask questions of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Michael Carvajal about the conditions of inmates held in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol.

But to the dismay of those seeking answers, Carvajal didnt have many.

According to Carvajal, there are 19 Jan. 6 inmates in federal custody, eight of whom are in pretrial detention. However, most of the alleged human rights abuses of Jan. 6 inmates have been tied to the D.C. Correctional Treatment Facility, where an estimated 37 people associated with Jan. 6, 2021, are held.

The BOP doesnt have oversight of the D.C. Department of Corrections, leaving Carvajal with little to say about the conditions of the Jan. 6 inmates there.

Im not going to comment on what another corrections facility does without knowing all the details, Carvajal said.

Rep. Greg Steube (R-Fla.) asked Carvajal whether the BOP follows the same policies as the District of Columbia jail, where its alleged that unvaccinated inmates are being forced into solitary confinement for 14 days after meeting with their attorneys, as well as being denied medical care, religious services, haircuts, and basic hygiene.

No, we do not, Carvajal answered, adding that everyone is treated with dignity and has access to everything equally.

Im glad to hear that, and it also highlights how illegal and out of step things are at the D.C. jail regarding January 6 inmates, Steube responded.

Carvajal said some Jan. 6 inmates housed by the BOP were being detained in solitary confinement. He said he didnt know the specific number.

Not satisfied with the result of the committee meeting, Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-Wisc.) called for another hearing that would include D.C. Department of Corrections officials.

We need a full hearing on the January 6 detainees because they are being submitted to conditions that many on this committee, including those on the other side of the aisle, find reprehensible, he said.

The Feb. 3 House Judiciary Committee meeting came on the heels of a hearing two weeks ago, when the plight of the Jan. 6 inmates was raised for the first time in a congressional setting.

These defendants havent been convicted of any crime, most have no criminal record, and some dont even face charges of violence. It appears as if the D.C. jail is a political prison, witness Julie Kelly, a writer for American Greatness, told committee members at the time.

One detainee I spoke with this week, an Army reservist charged with no violent crime, said the D.C. jail is on a 22-hour lockdown due to COVID.

House Judiciary Committee Democrats have largely agreed with Republicans about getting answers from the D.C. Department of Correctionsthough some committee members have accused their colleagues of ignoring these problems except when it comes to Jan. 6, 2021, inmates.

In 2015, the Washington Lawyers Committee for civil rights released a report condemning conditions in the D.C. jails, Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (D-N.Y.) said at the mid-January hearing. Those findings were ignored until a more diverse population was incarcerated there.

Witness Alison Guernsey, founder of the Federal Criminal Defense Clinic, made similar statements at that hearing. She said the conditions of the Jan. 6, 2021, inmates are an appalling representation of a larger problem.

I do think some of the things happening to the Jan. 6 defendants are truly appalling, but I dont think theyre isolated to the Jan. 6 defendants.
Grassley Challenges Garland to Explain Why He Wont Answer Key BidenChina Questions

Attorney General Merrick Garland has refused to answer Sen. Charles Grassleys (R-Iowa) fundamental questions related to the Hunter Biden criminal investigation, and the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee isnt taking it sitting down.

Ive asked serious ethical questions of the Justice Department (DOJ) that the department refuses to answer. In fact, the department has actually publicly contradicted itself, Grassley said during a Senate floor speech on Feb. 2.

The contradiction came, according to Grassley, in a federal court filing by the DOJ in which it said it had information about Patrick Ho, a Chinese businessman with deep connections to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and Beijings intelligence apparatus. The information had been obtained under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).

Patrick Ho was also charged and convicted of international bribery and money laundering offenses relating to his work for companies connected to the communist regime, Grassley told the Senate. After his arrest, his first call was reportedly to James Biden, President [Joe] Bidens brother. Hunter Biden reportedly represented Patrick Ho for $1 million.

Grassley, along with Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), asked DOJ in a March 2021 letter to share the FISA information about Ho and other Chinese nationals connected with Hunter Biden.

Grassley and Johnson have been investigating Hunter Bidens dealings for nearly two years, and issued a September 2020 report and a November 2020 update that together detailed extensive links between the Biden family and business interests and individuals with close ties to Beijing. Grassley was Senate Finance Committee chairman and Johnson chaired the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs when the report and update were issued.

The DOJ response to the March 2021 letter, Grassley explained, said: Unfortunately, under the circumstances described in your letter, we arent in a position to confirm the existence of the information that is sought (if it exists in the departments possession).

If it exists in the departments possession. Simply put, thats not a true and accurate statement, Grassley told the Senate, noting that either DOJ has the FISA information, as it told the court, or it doesnt.

Grassley and Johnson asked Garland in a November 2021 letter to clear up the contradiction. To date, Garland hasnt responded.

Grassley also told the Senate that he and Johnson asked Attorney General Garland if Nicholas McQuaid is recused from the Hunter Biden criminal case.

McQuaid works in the Departments Criminal Division but worked with Hunter Bidens criminal attorney before joining the Department. This poses a clear conflict of interest, he said.

Again, no answer has been forthcoming from Garland, Grassley said.

In a third example of Garland failing to respond to the senators, Grassley said Garland initially didnt say if Susan Hennesseya DOJ National Security Division employee who was publicly critical of U.S. Attorney John Durhams investigation of issues linked to the Russiagate accusations against former President Donald Trumpwas recused from that probe.

Garland claimed in a November 2021 appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee that Hennessey has no role whatsoever in the Durham probe. Garland said the same thing when asked if Margaret Goodlander, a DOJ employee who is married to Biden national security adviser Jake Sullivan, is recused from the Durham investigation.

Grassley told the Senate: Sullivan worked for the Clinton presidential campaign. While there, he peddled the false Alfa Bank story about the Trump Organization having a secret back-channel with the Russian bank.

On the one hand, Attorney General Garland has publicly said Susan Hennessey and Margaret Goodlander have no role in the Durham investigation. On the other hand, Attorney General Garland refuses to say the same for McQuaid and the Hunter Biden criminal case. Why? Why wont Attorney General Garland say that McQuaid has no role in the criminal case involving the presidents son? This is a fundamental ethical question.

Whats the Biden Justice Department hiding? This blatantly inconsistent treatment has cast a cloud over the Hunter Biden criminal case. Just imagine if this fact pattern involved President Trump and his sons.

You wouldnt hear the end of it from my Democratic colleagues and the media. Yet not a sound from them in this case. The American people are rightly skeptical of how the Justice Department is handling the Hunter Biden criminal case. And the secrecy and lack of public transparency will only increase that skepticism.

The DOJ media relations office didnt respond by press time to The Epoch Times request for comment.

In a related development, it was learned last week that U.S. Attorney David Weiss issued a grand jury subpoena in 2019 for bank records of Hunter Biden and James Biden, the presidents brother. Little else is known about the DOJs continuing investigation of Hunter Bidens lobbying, financial activities, and tax problems.
Just one month into 2022, a slew of extreme weather events have crippled major U.S. metro areas, causing power outages in Massachusetts, a daylong traffic jam in Virginia and the cancellation of hundreds of flights. These are all connected to climate change, scientists say, as warmer temperatures cause more precipitation, leading to heavier storms, and changing wind patterns bring blasts of cold air to previously unlikely locations.

Are all these extreme events connected? Definitely yes, Jennifer Francis, senior scientist at Woodwell Climate Research Center in Massachusetts, told Yahoo News. We are seeing an uptick of extreme weather events to the tune of about a tripling since the 1980s.

Dina Lewis rescues items from her home in Laplace, La., after it was destroyed by Hurricane Ida, Aug. 30, 2021. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

In terms of temperature and precipitation extremes, theyre definitely getting more extreme, said Mathew Barlow, a professor of environmental earth and atmospheric sciences at UMass-Lowell. We see that in the observations, thats predicted by theory and its confirmed by models.

In January, multiple unusually strong winter snowstorms hit the South, one of which dropped 13 inches of snow in Boone, N.C., while another caused cars to get stuck for more than 24 hours on I-95 in Virginia after more than a foot of snow fell  far more than the few inches that had been predicted. Last Saturday, the city of Boston tied its single-day snowfall record of 23.6 inches.

On Thursday, more than 100 million Americans, from New England to the Rocky Mountains, find themselves under winter weather alerts. Such unlikely locations as Texas are experiencing ice and snow with below-freezing temperatures, causing tens of thousands of residents to experience blackouts, just one year after a series of remarkably severe winter storms left millions in the state without power.

Summer heat waves and heavy rainstorms are also getting more intense. The last seven years have been the seven hottest years in recorded history. Last July was the hottest month on record, and 25 countries experienced their warmest year ever. In September, New York City was hit by Hurricane Ida, which brought a record rainfall of 8.41 inches, causing flooding in basements and streets, and killing 46 people in the metropolitan region.

Story continues

In fact, some climate scientists think a new term for the most extreme weather may be needed because the usual way of characterizing the events fails to capture how they keep getting more dramatic.

Abandoned cars on the flooded Major Deegan Expressway in the Bronx, N.Y., following heavy wind and rain from the remnants of Hurricane Ida, Sept. 2, 2021. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

One of the issues with extreme is that once youve used that word, its kind of hard to talk about what it looks like when you have bigger extremes, Barlow told Yahoo News. Johan Rockstrom, head of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany, told the New York Times on Tuesday that recent weather events are increasingly super-extremes.

The fact that extreme weather can refer to both a bad hurricane and an utterly devastating one might cause people to underestimate the increasing severity of these events. One aspect of that, that Im not sure people always get, is that they look at the last six months or nine months and say, these extreme heat waves, even in Canada, the fire season, the flooding even in Central Park, and think, this is the new normal. And its not; this is just a way station, Barlow said.

Adapting to the constantly worsening weather is especially difficult, because areas are often being hit with uncharacteristically extreme events. Just as Southern cities are suddenly having to contend with snow, usually cool areas are seeing abnormal heat waves. Last June, temperatures were upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit for days on end in the normally mild Pacific Northwest, leading to more than 600 excess deaths in Oregon and Washington state. One year earlier, on June 20, 2020, the temperature in Verkhoyansk, Russia, went over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the hottest temperature ever recorded north of the Arctic Circle.

Last July in Germany, some areas saw almost twice as much rain in two days as they normally get in the whole month, obliterating precipitation records, flooding tens of thousands of homes and killing at least 180 people.

Residents of Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Germany, start the cleanup process following severe flash flooding, July 18, 2021. (Thomas Lohnes/Getty Images)

And even though global warming means higher average temperatures, winter weather is also getting more extreme, due to the effect of climate change on the jet stream, a band of air flowing west to east.

Theres a lot of research in the last decade suggesting that the jet stream is behaving differently now, Francis said. It is wavier than it used to be, and whenever the jet stream takes these big north-south swings, we tend to see unusual weather conditions unfolding along with those. All of these winter storms are associated with these big southward dips in the jet stream."

As long as humans keep pumping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, trapping more heat and causing more second-order effects, these super-extreme winter events will become even more shocking and unpredictable.

Until we really dramatically reduce emissions, its going to get more extreme every year, Barlow said.

Global temperatures are on the rise and have been for decades. Step inside the data and see the magnitude of climate change.
YORK  Two individuals have filed their intentions to run for seats on local school boards.

Alison North, a current member of the York School Board, has filed her candidacy to seek reelection.

There are three seats up for election on the York School Board this year  those held by North, Pepper Papineau and Barb Skaden. Papineau has also filed his candidacy.

And Ryan Goertzen, a non-incumbent, has filed his candidacy to run for a seat on the Heartland School Board. This year, the seats of Kent Allen, Tammy Ott and Steven Stebbing are up for election. So far, none of the incumbents have filed.

Local school board races fall within the category of those that require filing before the Primary Election.

For the McCool School Board, there are three seats up for election this year  those of Ron Clark, Matt Clark and Dan Aude. So far, no one has filed to run for these seats.

Incumbents must file by Feb. 15 and non-incumbents must file by March 1.

After the filings are complete, it is then determined if the races will actually appear on the Primary ballot in May. If the number of candidates is more than double the available seats, the race is included on the Primary ballot. If that doesnt occur, then it is automatically moved on to the General Election ballot in November.

There are a number of local races that are up for election this year. The following are local positions that will be considered as Primary Election races:

 District 24 representative to the Nebraska Legislature: There is no incumbent as State Senator Mark Kolterman will be leaving office due to term limits. Those who have filed, so far, are Jana Hughes of Seward and Dr. Patrick Hotovy of York.

 York County Commissioner for District 1: Incumbent Daniel Grotz has filed his candidacy.

 York County Commissioner for District 3: No one has filed yet.

 York County Commissioner for District 4: Incumbent Randy Obermier has filed his candidacy.

 York County Sheriff: Incumbent Paul Vrbka has filed to seek reelection. Also filing is Scott Wiemer.

 York County Clerk: Incumbent Kelly Turner has filed to seek reelection.

 York County Surveyor: Incumbent Rex Heiden has filed to seek reelection.

 York County Assessor: No one has filed yet.

 York County Attorney: No one has filed yet.

 York County Clerk of the District Court: Incumbent Sharilyn Steube has filed to seek reelection.

 York County Public Defender: No one has filed yet.

 York County Treasurer: Incumbent Brenda Scavo has filed to seek reelection.

 Henderson City Council: No one has filed yet.

 York City Council: Non-incumbent Steve Postier has filed to run.

If someone is interested in running for the District 24 state representative position, they must do so with the Nebraska Secretary of States office.

If someone wants to run for the other local races, they can do so at the county clerk/election commissioners offices located on the main floor of the York County Courthouse.
I'm currently a senior majoring in broadcast journalism and minoring in political science. I'm a fan of all St. Louis sports, Oasis and pretty much any Kurt Russell film. Feel free to reach out to me at mgp89g@umsystem.edu or on Twitter @MattPasz2000.

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RENO, Nev., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Greater Commercial Lending (GCL), a subsidiary of Greater Nevada Credit Union (GNCU) that serves rural and under-served communities, obligated over $200 million in government-guaranteed U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Business and Industry CARES Act loans and assisted with approximately $50 million through September 30, 2021. That is among the highest amount of any lender that participated in the program.

The B&I CARES Act program offered loan guarantees to lenders that provide credit to rural businesses and agricultural producers to supplement their working capital to prevent, prepare for and respond to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The CARES Act program made a significant difference for businesses in many rural communities that were hit hard by the effects of COVID-19. I'm particularly proud of the team at Greater Commercial Lending for their work on these loans, especially given that they were in the midst of working on PPP and SBA 7(a) loans at the same time," said Jeremy Gilpin, executive vice president of GCL. "Our main goal at GCL is to help organizations in rural and under-served communities and to enhance quality of life in those places."

"Under the leadership of President Biden, Vice President Harris and Agriculture Secretary Vilsack, USDA is expanding access to capital to prioritize rural economic development. As we continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and restore the economy, USDA remains committed to helping rural businesses create job opportunities so rural Americans can build back better and stronger than ever before," said Justin Maxson, USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development.

GCL brings together credit unions and community banks from around the U.S. to provide government-guaranteed loans to businesses and initiatives in rural and under-served markets. GCL partners with the SBA and the USDA, which guarantee loans, to arrange credit for entities at favorable terms.

The country's first B&I CARES Act loan, which went to Eagle's Catch, an aquaculture farm in Ellsworth, Iowa, was originated by GCL.

"About 91% of all the seafood in the United States is imported. Our goal is to help make fish one of the most water-neutral and carbon-neutral forms of animal protein. When the pandemic started, it really put us in a tight spot. But there were a lot of really great programs from the USDA as well as the CARES Act that helped us through that really difficult time. Greater Commercial Lending worked with us on a package deal that will enable us to grow over the coming years. It also helped us cover a lot of the losses we were seeing as a result of the ongoing pandemic," said Joe Sweeney, founder and CEO of Eagle's Catch.

"We're really happy to have that relationship [with GCL] as they're one of the top in the nation for their partnership with USDA on the Business and Industry Loan Guarantee program," added Sweeney.

About Greater Commercial Lending

Greater Commercial Lending (GCL) is a credit organization that brings together credit unions and community lenders from around the U.S. to provide government-guaranteed loans to businesses and initiatives in rural and under-served markets throughout the U.S. and its territories. It helps finance key infrastructure services, like power, renewable energy, transportation and fiber optic, as well as schools, hospitals, restaurants, agriculture, hotels and manufacturers. GCL partners with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which guarantee loans, to arrange credit at favorable terms.

About Greater Nevada Credit Union

Greater Nevada Credit Union (GNCU) is headquartered in Carson City, Nevada and has been helping Nevadans with their financial needs since 1949. The credit union serves more than 80,000 consumers and small businesses and has over $1.5 billion in assets. GNCU's subsidiaries include Greater Commercial Lending, Greater Nevada Mortgage, and Greater Nevada Insurance. GNCU has been consistently recognized as a Best Financial Institution in many of its service areas, as a top employer by the Reno/Tahoe Best Places to Work Awards and is the USDA Lender of the Year. GNCU is also the title sponsor of Greater Nevada Field in Reno. For more information, call (800) 421-6674 or visit www.gncu.org.

SOURCE Greater Commercial Lending
An electronic chip that can be reprogrammed on demand may enable artificial intelligence to learn more continuously like the human brain does, researchers have discovered. Credit: Purdue University photo/Rebecca McElhoe

When the human brain learns something new, it adapts. But when artificial intelligence learns something new, it tends to forget information it already learned.

As companies use more and more data to improve how AI recognizes images, learns languages and carries out other complex tasks, a paper publishing in Science this week shows a way that computer chips could dynamically rewire themselves to take in new data like the brain does, helping AI to keep learning over time.

"The brains of living beings can continuously learn throughout their lifespan. We have now created an artificial platform for machines to learn throughout their lifespan," said Shriram Ramanathan, a professor in Purdue University's School of Materials Engineering who specializes in discovering how materials could mimic the brain to improve computing.

Unlike the brain, which constantly forms new connections between neurons to enable learning, the circuits on a computer chip don't change. A circuit that a machine has been using for years isn't any different than the circuit that was originally built for the machine in a factory.

This is a problem for making AI more portable, such as for autonomous vehicles or robots in space that would have to make decisions on their own in isolated environments. If AI could be embedded directly into hardware rather than just running on software as AI typically does, these machines would be able to operate more efficiently.

In this study, Ramanathan and his team built a new piece of hardware that can be reprogrammed on demand through electrical pulses. Ramanathan believes that this adaptability would allow the device to take on all of the functions that are necessary to build a brain-inspired computer.

"If we want to build a computer or a machine that is inspired by the brain, then correspondingly, we want to have the ability to continuously program, reprogram and change the chip," Ramanathan said.

Toward building a brain in chip form

The hardware is a small, rectangular device made of a material called perovskite nickelate, which is very sensitive to hydrogen. Applying electrical pulses at different voltages allows the device to shuffle a concentration of hydrogen ions in a matter of nanoseconds, creating states that the researchers found could be mapped out to corresponding functions in the brain.

When the device has more hydrogen near its center, for example, it can act as a neuron, a single nerve cell. With less hydrogen at that location, the device serves as a synapse, a connection between neurons, which is what the brain uses to store memory in complex neural circuits.

Through simulations of the experimental data, the Purdue team's collaborators at Santa Clara University and Portland State University showed that the internal physics of this device creates a dynamic structure for an artificial neural network that is able to more efficiently recognize electrocardiogram patterns and digits compared to static networks. This neural network uses "reservoir computing," which explains how different parts of a brain communicate and transfer information.

Researchers from The Pennsylvania State University also demonstrated in this study that as new problems are presented, a dynamic network can "pick and choose" which circuits are the best fit for addressing those problems.

Since the team was able to build the device using standard semiconductor-compatible fabrication techniques and operate the device at room temperature, Ramanathan believes that this technique can be readily adopted by the semiconductor industry.

"We demonstrated that this device is very robust," said Michael Park, a Purdue Ph.D. student in materials engineering. "After programming the device over a million cycles, the reconfiguration of all functions is remarkably reproducible."

The researchers are working to demonstrate these concepts on large-scale test chips that would be used to build a brain-inspired computer.

Experiments at Purdue were conducted at the FLEX Lab and Birck Nanotechnology Center of Purdue's Discovery Park. The team's collaborators at Argonne National Laboratory, the University of Illinois, Brookhaven National Laboratory and the University of Georgia conducted measurements of the device's properties.

Explore further Developing an ultra-scalable artificial synapse

More information: Hai-Tian Zhang et al, Reconfigurable Perovskite Nickelate Electronics for Artificial Intelligence, Science (2022). www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abj7943 Journal information: Science Hai-Tian Zhang et al, Reconfigurable Perovskite Nickelate Electronics for Artificial Intelligence,(2022). DOI: 10.1126/science.abj7943
They have been seen on the set of forthcoming US Showtime series which is based on the Ripley novels by Patricia Highsmith.

And Dakota Fanning, 27, and Andrew Scott, 45, looked like they meant business as they donned smart all-black ensembles on location in Venice, on Thursday.

The duo looked to be deep in conversation for the intense scene as they took a walk through the picturesque Italian city.

Upcoming: Dakota Fanning and Andrew Scott mean business as they don smart all-black ensembles on the set of crime drama Ripley in Venice

Dakota could be seen in smart black trousers and a jumper with a long overcoat and patent brogue shoes.

Her blonde locks were pulled back into a sleek ponytail and she wore a flick of feline eyeliner to complete her chic look.

Andrew, who takes the lead role, donned a tailored suit with a white shirt and navy tie as he sauntered down some steps, next to his co-star.

Serious: The duo looked to be deep in conversation for the intense scene as they took a walk through the picturesque Italian city

Chic: Dakota, 27, could be seen in smart black trousers and a jumper with a long overcoat and patent brogue shoes

Dakota, will portray Marge Sherwood in the new Showtime series, while Scott, 45, plays the iconic Tom Ripley - the arch conman previously played to aplomb by Matt Damon in the hit 1999 film.

The character was created by late novelist Patricia Highsmith and played a defining role through five of her novels and several subsequent film adaptations.

In the new series, set in the 1960s, Ripley is hired by a wealthy New Yorker to travel to Italy to convince his wayward son Dickie Greenleaf to return home.

Stylish: Her blonde locks were pulled back into a sleek ponytail and she wore a flick of feline eyeliner to complete her chic look

Dapper: Andrew, who takes the lead role, donned a tailored suit with a white shirt and navy tie as he sauntered down some steps, next to his co-star

Co-stars: Dakota, will portray Marge Sherwood in the new Showtime series, while Scott, 45, plays the iconic Tom Ripley

But along the way, he starts to weave a complex web of deceit with murderous consequences.

Dickie's Venice based American girlfriend - played by Dakota - will slowly suspect Ripley's motives when he shows up looking for him.

The drama is being adapted from Highsmith's novels by Schindler's List writer Steve Zaillan.

The 1999 film 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 doomed jazz musician Dickie.

Coming soon: In the new series, set in the 1960s, Ripley is hired by a wealthy New Yorker to travel to Italy to convince his wayward son Dickie Greenleaf to return home

Plot: Along the way, he starts to weave a complex web of deceit with murderous consequences

Exciting: Ripley's US release date in the USA is confirmed to be 2022. A UK release is to be announced

The news of Dakota's casting comes on the heels of her joining Showtime's anthology series The First Lady.

She's set to play the daughter of President Gerald Ford and First Lady Betty Ford in the show.

The former child actress is best known for I Am Sam, Man On Fire, War Of The Worlds and The Twilight Saga.

Ripley's US release date in the USA is confirmed to be 2022. A UK release is to be announced.

Back to it: Andrew was back on set in Venice early on Friday morning shooting new scenes
WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Board Safely, LLC and Signature Tours today announced a partnership to help Americans safely and easily travel abroad. Since the U.S. and many foreign countries now require a certified negative antigen COVID test result to enter, the premier travel/international tour agency will provide a convenient solution for their clients through Board Safely's virtual nurse-supervised COVID testing certification platform.

"Board Safely's virtual COVID testing certification service will help my travelers feel safe and confident going abroad," said Brad Brown, President of Signature Tours. "Not only will they be able to receive testing certification to meet travel requirements for many foreign countries, but Board Safely meets CDC requirements for returning to the U.S. This alleviates stress and concerns about finding and taking a COVID test in a foreign country before returning home."

Board Safely's process is simple. Travelers obtain their own FDA-EUA authorized rapid antigen test(s), schedule a virtual appointment for 24 hours before flying, and take the test under the supervision of a registered nurse. On the video call, Board Safely nurses verify the traveler's identity and date/time of test, then following the 15-minute rapid test waiting period, certify the test result and immediately email the test certification to the traveler before leaving the call. This certification is valid to enter many foreign countries and is approved by the CDC for return to the U.S.

"As long as accurate and supervised COVID testing remains vital to containing the pandemic and opening international borders, we are pleased to offer this hassle-free platform to make pandemic travel easier and safer," says Dr. Michael Coleman, Board Safely Founder. "We are excited to work with Signature Tours to help meet the testing needs of all of their passengers."

Through this partnership, Signature Tours will use Board Safely's virtual COVID testing verification platform for their travelers.

About Board Safely

Board Safely, LLC provides virtual, nurse-supervised test certification of SARS-CoV-2 viral tests with Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Board Safely provides patients with a scheduled appointment with one of our certified nurses to supervise administration and verify the results, and then provides the test results and a certification instantly via email.

About Signature Tours

Signature Tours, a premier travel agency based out of Atlanta, GA, provides thousands of travelers with unforgettable trips throughout the world. Their customized journeys are carefully designed to create a once in a lifetime experience.

Media Contact:

Jessica Garcia-Stember

[email protected]

SOURCE Board Safely
A Senate bill that would increase compensation for jurors selected for circuit court trials in Virginia from $30 to $100 a day has moved forward without opposition. The current compensation amount of $30 hasnt changed in decades, the bills sponsor says.

This bill came to me from somebody who has long worked in the court system, Sen. Lynwood Lewis, D-Accomack, told members of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday in presenting the legislation. And I was just completely unaware of the fact that its been $30 a day for decades  is my understanding.

So if youve got somebody who is working at a chicken plant and gets off for a one-day or two-day or three-day jury trial, that can have a significant impact on them financially if they arent fairly compensated for their jury service, Lewis said.

There was no opposition among committee members, but Sen. Mark Peake, R-Lynchburg, asked if we have any idea how much the legislation will cost once implemented.

Yes, $5 million, Lewis said.

Thats not as much as I thought, replied Peake, expressing surprise by the number.

According to Virginia Department of Planning and Budget documents attached to the bill, the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court of Virginia reported that the amount the state paid jurors in circuit court at $30 a day during fiscal 2019  the most recent year unaffected by the pandemic  was $2,288,658.

Assuming juries are empaneled at the same pre-pandemic rate moving forward at $100 a day, it is anticipated the proposed bill would result in an expenditure of $5,340,201 annually to cover expected juror compensation  or more than double the 2019 amount.

We had a heck of a time with finance staff, getting our arms around where the money came from and what it would cost, Lewis told the committee.

Staff with the planning and budget office pointed out in the bills fiscal impact statement that the $5.3 million figure does not reflect the expected increase in the number of defendants who will opt for jury trials, due to changes in state law passed in 2020 regarding jury sentencing.

During the General Assemblys 2020 special session, lawmakers passed a bill that transfers sentencing responsibilities for a jury trial from the jurors to a judge, unless a defendant specifically requests they be set by the jury.

Until the law was passed, Virginia and Kentucky were the only two states where if a defendant or prosecutor asked for a jury trial, the jury must also recommend the sentence  which in the large majority of cases is imposed by the presiding judge.

During debate on the legislation, the Virginia Association of Commonwealths Attorneys estimated the change could lead to an eightfold increase in jury trials and, without additional money to hire more prosecutors, they would be forced to agree to plea deals that are not commensurate with the crime.

Advocates of the law noted that only 1.3% of felony cases went to a jury trial in Virginia in 2019; 90% of the defendants opted to take a plea deal rather than risk what the jury may decide in punishment upon a conviction.

Supporters said the law would end what has been described as the jury penalty, which defendants risk when they are convicted and sentenced by a jury.

Before the new law went into effect on July 1, jurors could recommend sentences that in some cases would far exceed what a defendant would have received under sentencing by judges under state sentencing guidelines.

What was not discussed during Wednesdays session is whether a more than threefold increase in jury pay would encourage a stronger turnout among prospective jurors.

Several localities in the Richmond-Petersburg region in recent years have had problems with residents summoned for jury duty failing to appear, causing some trials to be delayed or postponed.

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 13-0 on Wednesday to move Senate Bill 730 forward. It will now be considered by the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee.
Sen. Julie Slama's proposal to seek elimination of the nonpartisan feature of Nebraska's unique one-party Legislature ran into a storm of opposition Thursday at a public hearing, including resistance from four former senators.

If that were to happen, former Speaker of the Legislature Galen Hadley of Kearney warned, "we will look a little bit like Washington" where members of Congress battle every day along party lines.

In Nebraska's Legislature, Hadley said, "the emphasis is on you as an individual senator, not party."

"We do work for the people, not the parties," former Sen. Burke Harr of Omaha said. "The issues are less party-driven" in Nebraska's Legislature, he said, and more centered on urban or rural interests.

"Senators would be expected to toe the line on issues," former Sen. DiAnna Schimek of Lincoln said, and a partisan Legislature "would give the governor more power.

"Term limits is what should change," Schimek said.

Former Sen. Mike Gloor of Grand Island said he would not have been a candidate for the Legislature if the body had been partisan.

Slama said she introduced the proposed constitutional amendment (LR282CA) to let the people decide whether they want to retain the current nonpartisan system or whether they may want to know the party affiliation of legislative candidates.

Party identification would give voters "a general sense of where candidates stand," said Slama, an active Republican who was originally appointed to the Legislature in 2019 by Gov. Pete Ricketts.

Slama, who lives in Sterling, subsequently was elected to a four-year term in 2020.

A parade of speakers opposed the proposal during a noon-hour public hearing before the Legislature's Executive Board.

Moving to a partisan Legislature "would remove the possibility of independent decision-making," said Nathan Leach, speaking for Non-Partisan Nebraska.

Nebraska's state senators "act in the best interests of their constituents now rather than a political party," he said.

A number of speakers suggested that the proposal could have the effect of "disenfranchising 271,000 voters" who are registered now as nonpartisans if subsequent implementation of the change would move legislative candidates onto partisan primary election ballots.

"Let's continue to evaluate candidates as people," said Westin Miller, director of public policy for Civic Nebraska.

John Hansen of Lincoln, president of the Nebraska Farmers Union, said the proposal would be "a giant step in the wrong direction."
The world cant end soon enough in director Roland Emmerichs latest attempt to re-create the sci-fi/disaster-movie mayhem that he conjured successfully in such films as Independence Day, 2012 and The Day After Tomorrow. Featuring many of the same grandiose elements as those predecessors, Moonfall looks and sounds like a would-be cinematic blockbuster but comes up painfully short in its ham-fisted execution. Filled with unintentional humor, the film seems inevitably destined for exposure on a future incarnation of Mystery Science Theater 3000.

A prologue introduces us to two of the main characters, astronauts Jo (Halle Berry) and Brian (Patrick Wilson, reuniting with the director after Midway), first seen bantering about the lyrics to Totos Africa while on a NASA repair mission. Just as theyre debating the phrase I bless the rains down in Africa, a mysterious swarm of, well, something, attacks their spaceship, sending a hapless colleague to his death in perpetual orbit.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

Cut to 10 years later, when Brian, who was somehow blamed for the event, has been drummed out of NASA in disgrace while Jo has risen to the top ranks. Brian has personal problems as well; his former wife (Carolina Bartczak) is now remarried to a smarmy businessman (Michael Pena, wasted in a humorless role), and his teenage son Sonny (Charlie Plummer) gets arrested on drug charges after a high-speed chase with cops. When Brian shows up in the courtroom to lend support, he only winds up alienating the judge and making Sonnys plight worse.

If all of this seems a bit much in terms of plot detail, its indicative of the overly cluttered nature of the screenplay co-written by Emmerich with Harald Kloser and Spenser Cohen, which throws in so many superfluous characters and incidents that the two-hour movie seems much, much longer than it is.

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I havent even gotten to another main character, K.C. Houseman (John Bradley, Game of Thrones), so relentlessly and annoyingly quirky that he seems destined either to become the films hero or one of its chief casualties, or both. A university janitor who frequently takes advantage of his workplace to impersonate its professors, K.C. is an amateur scientist convinced that the Moons orbit is about to shift, with disastrous implications for Earth.

And wouldnt you know it, hes exactly right, although it seems to take forever for Brian and Jo to get with the program and join forces to prevent the calamity. Jo suddenly becomes elevated to head of NASA (dont ask), which enables her immediately to commandeer a spaceship and embark on a planet-saving mission with Brian and K.C. The latter hopes to make his dementia-addled mother proud, despite being nervous about going into space because he suffers from irritable bowel syndrome.

Of course, theyre not fast enough to prevent the process from happening. The Moon, which has apparently become a megastructure, begins wreaking gravitational havoc, causing a series of floods and earthquakes and the like. Cue the best miniatures that disaster-movie money can buy, though they never manage to be convincing despite what appears to be a generous special effects budget.

Meanwhile, apparently operating under the theory that a mere space mission to save the planet from extinction doesnt provide enough in the way of excitement, the film throws in another gratuitous subplot involving Sonny, who, accompanied by Jos adorable young son (Zayn Maloney) and the boys nanny (Wenwen Yu), races through snowy Colorado in a desperate attempt at survival, encountering violent criminal types along the way.

By the time the story reaches its out-there conclusion  involving aliens ability to channel our inner thoughts in order to communicate with us in terms we can understand  its become clear that the screenwriters have seen 2001: A Space Odyssey too many times.

This might all have been palatable if Moonfall generated any real electricity or flair. But Emmerich, whos previously demonstrated his greater artistic ambitions with such efforts as Anonymous and Stonewall, seems to be going through the motions.

The same can be said of Berry, who sleepwalks through the proceedings as if wondering why shes there. Of course, you cant blame her, considering shes saddled with such lines as Everything we thought we knew about the nature of the universe is out the window. Wilson and Bradley at least bring some conviction to their performances, although mostly for naught. And Donald Sutherland shows up in a cameo, briefly delivering the same sort of intense energy he brought to Oliver Stones JFK.

Best of The Hollywood Reporter

Click here to read the full article.
SIOUX CITY -- An Arnolds Park, Iowa, man with a lengthy record of fraud was sentenced Tuesday to three years in federal prison for committing more fraudulent activity while on supervised release from a previous conviction.

At the conclusion of a three-day hearing in U.S. District Court in Sioux City, Chief U.S. District Judge Leonard Strand ruled that Ronald Goldberg, 63, had defrauded a Florida hotel in 2019 in violation of terms of his supervised release from a 2016 conviction in South Dakota for two counts of bank fraud and one count of wire fraud.

There is no parole in the federal system, and Goldberg, who Strand referred to as a con artist, must serve two years on supervised release after completing his prison sentence.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Goldberg, who claims to be a fine Italian wine importer, checked into an oceanfront hotel in Palm Beach, Florida, using a credit card from a luxury auto dealership in Dallas. When the dealership called the hotel to question a charge on its credit card bill, the hotel confronted Goldberg, who then left in the middle of the night without paying his bill in full.

In addition to the 2016 South Dakota fraud conviction, Goldberg has prior federal convictions for wire fraud and interstate transportation of money obtained by fraud in Pennsylvania; interstate transportation of stolen securities, possession of stolen securities, bank fraud and attempted escape in Florida; forging a U.S. magistrate judge's signature in Pennsylvania; and wire fraud in New York.
The Johnson County Board of Supervisors on Thursday backed away from a plan to test unvaccinated county employees weekly under guidance from a now-rescinded federal rule.

The Supervisors unanimously approved an amendment to the county's COVID-19 Vaccination, Testing and Face Covering policy that was approved in December but never implemented. Testing employees was delayed in Johnson County as President Joe Biden's executive order directing large employers to have their workers be fully vaccinated or face weekly testing made its way through U.S. courts.

In late January, Biden scrapped the rule after a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, prompting Johnson County to modify its own policy just weeks after passing it.

Susan Nehring, an assistant Johnson County attorney, told the board that the policy was paused, and the testing requirement removed, because of several factors, including:

The legal ramifications as the courts considered it;

New scientific understandings of the virus and how the omicron variant spreads;

And how effective weekly COVID-19 testing would be in preventing spread of the virus.

"At the time when this idea was first developed we were in a different environment back in September. We were hopeful that people who were fully vaccinated would be unlikely to develop COVID-19," she said.

"Obviously some of the events we've seen recently show that the new variant has really turned things on its head."

John Yang receives a dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine during a community clinic at the Resurrection Assembly of God, Sunday, April 25, 2021, in Iowa City, Iowa.

Nehring pointed out that the county was able to determine that 90% of its more than 500 employees have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

A group of county officials found that the costs and legal implications of implementing a testing protocol would outweigh the potential benefit of weekly screening of the 10% of county employees who are unvaccinated.

That group included Human Resources Director Lora Shramek, Public Health Director Danielle Pettit-Majewski, Board of Supervisors Executive Director Mike Hench, Supervisor Pat Heiden and Nehring,

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A COVID-19 paid recovery leave for fully vaccinated employees that was not required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulation remains in place under Johnson County's policy. This was adopted to provide an incentive for people to get vaccinated.

The policy also maintains the duty of employees to report a positive test or a diagnosis of a COVID-19 infection so the county can maintain a safe workplace. It also urges employees that believe they were exposed to follow Centers for Disease Control guidelines and to stay home if they have symptoms.

Nehring told the Supervisors that the county should consider amending its policy to require all employees, not just the unvaccinated, to wear a mask while in the work place. She also said the county should encourage vaccinated employees to get a COVID-19 booster shot.

"(A booster) has really proven to reduce the chance of getting infections and then also to keep people from getting sick if they get an infection," she said.

More: As classroom exposure notices pile up, Iowa public schools left to find their own COVID testing policies

Johnson County Public Health seeks to encourage booster shots after January COVID-19 surge

Johnson County Public Health Community Health Division Manager Sam Jarvis told the Board of Supervisors on Wednesday that the county is starting to see COVID-19 cases decrease after a surge in infections over the past month.

"In recent times we were seeing 300-400 cases a day," Jarvis said. "In total, it was reported out that we saw roughly about 9,000 cases in January alone, or about 5-6% of the population."

This week, the Iowa Department of Health reported that 73% of Johnson County residents are fully vaccinated. Johnson County has the highest percentage of its population fully vaccinated in Iowa as of Feb. 1.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers someone fully vaccinated two weeks after they've been given a single-dose shot (Johnson & Johnson) or a second shot (either Pfizer or Moderna).

Jarvis said there are 53% of children ages 5-11 vaccinated in Johnson County and the public health department is continuing to work with partners to hold pediatric vaccine clinics.

Sam Jarvis, Johnson County Public Health community health division manager, talks about items in the department's storage area, Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021, in his office at the Johnson County Public Health building in Iowa City, Iowa.

Related: COVID-19 surge in Iowa City is felt in K-12 and university classrooms

Jarvis said across Johnson County there are an estimated 42% of people who are vaccinated and have received a COVID-19 booster.

Pettit-Majewski and Nehring told the board that the public health department is considering a "wellness incentive" to get more fully vaccinated Johnson County employees to receive a booster shot. Pettit-Majewski and the board discussed doing a drawing for a gift card or other prizes as one option.

"If we really want to protect our work force, this might be a good way to use our energy rather than try to encourage that remaining 10% (of employees) who are unvaccinated," Pettit-Majewski said.

George Shillcock is the Press-Citizen's local government and development reporter covering Iowa City and Johnson County. He can be reached at GShillcock@press-citizen.com and on Twitter @ShillcockGeorge

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Johnson County rolls back testing requirement for unvaccinated workers
WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd February, 2022) The Biden administration recently stopped using the word imminent to describe the possibility of a Russian invasion of Ukraine because they are unsure whether President Vladimir Putin has decided to attack, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said on Wednesday.

"I used that (word) once, I think others have used that once, and then we stopped using it because I think it sends a message that we weren't intending to send, which was that we knew that President Putin had made a decision. I would say the vast majority of times I've talked about it we said he could invade at any time. That's true. We still don't know that he's made a decision," Psaki said when asked about her use of the word. "I think I used it once last week. I haven't in over a week."

Russia has repeatedly denied US allegations of prepping an invasion of Ukraine, and has criticized NATO's provocative military buildup in the region.
Legislators want federal help with seafood exports to China and Russia

Seafood is Alaskas biggest export by far, and state legislators want the federal government to get tougher on trade policies that they say unfairly hurt global sales.

Two resolutions (Senate Joint Resolution 16 and SJR17) were advanced last week by the House Fisheries Committee that address Russias ban on buying any U.S. foods since 2014 and also punitive seafood tariffs by China since 2018. Meanwhile, the U.S. is importing an increasing amount of seafood from both countries.

Both resolutions were introduced by Kodiak Sen. Gary Stevens and urge the federal government to restore open p...
CHICAGO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cboe Global Markets, Inc. (Cboe: CBOE), a leading provider of global market infrastructure and tradable products, today reported January monthly trading volume statistics across its global business lines.

The data sheet "Cboe Global Markets Monthly Volume & RPC/Net Revenue Capture Report" contains an overview of certain January trading statistics and market share by business segment, volume in select index products, and RPC/net capture, which is reported on a one-month lag, across business lines.

Trading Volume for Current Month Year-To-Date

















Jan

2022 Jan

2021 % Chg Dec 2021 %

Chg Jan 2022 Jan 2021 %

Chg Multiply-listed options (contracts, k) 11,573 11,585 -0.1% 9,888 17.1% 11,573 11,585 -0.1% Index options (contracts, k) 2,553 1,989 28.3% 2,282 11.9% 2,553 1,989 28.3% Futures (contracts, k) 303 272 11.5% 240 26.2% 303 272 11.5% U.S. Equities - On-Exchange (matched shares, mn) 1,794 2,282 -21.4% 1,441 24.5% 1,794 2,282 -21.4% U.S. Equities - Off-Exchange (matched shares, mn) 105 112 -5.9% 78 34.0% 105 112 -5.9% Canadian Equities (matched shares, k) 42,651 63,637 -33.0% 34,588 23.3% 42,651 63,637 -33.0% European Equities (, mn) 11,737 6,671 75.9% 7,602 54.4% 11,737 6,671 75.9% EuroCCP Cleared Trades (k) 132,328 88,241 50.0% 105,787 25.1% 132,328 88,241 NM EuroCCP Net Settlements (k) 889 740 20.1% 908 -2.1% 889 740 NM Australian Equities1 (AUD, mn) 844 N/A

656 28.7% 844 N/A

Japanese Equities1 (JPY, bn) 158 N/A

114 38.3% 158 N/A

Global FX ADNV ($, mn) 37,320 35,207 6.0% 30,268 23.3% 37,320 35,207 6.0%

1Australian Equities and Japanese Equities data reflects Cboe's acquisition of Chi-X Asia Pacific effective on July 1, 2021.

ADV = Average Daily Volume ADNV = Average Daily Notional Value NM = Not Meaningful

January 2022 Trading Volume Highlights

Options

Total options volume on Cboe's four options exchanges combined was 282.5 million contracts in January, the second-highest monthly volume on record. ADV for the month was 14.1 million contracts.

Total combined volume at Cboe's four options exchanges set a new single-day volume record on January 21 , with 21.0 million contracts traded.

, with 21.0 million contracts traded. Total volume in S&P 500 Index (SPX) options was 36.5 million contracts in January, the highest monthly volume since March 2020 . SPX options ADV for the month was 1.8 million contracts.

Futures

For futures, January 2022 was the highest-volume month since March 2020 , and included:

was the highest-volume month since , and included: Total futures volume reaching 6.1 million contracts, with an ADV of 303,000 contracts.



Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) futures total volume of 5.7 million contracts in January, with an ADV of 285,000 contracts.

North American Equities

Total market share for Cboe's four U.S. equities exchanges increased to 14.5 percent in January, up from 13.3 percent in December 2021 .

. Cboe's four U.S. equities exchanges accounted for approximately 17.5 percent of total U.S. ETP trading volume during January, up from 16.5 percent in December 2021 .

EU Derivatives

Cboe Europe Derivatives traded 1,980 contracts in January, a record monthly figure, exceeding the number in all of 2021 (since launch on September 6, 2021 ).

EU Equities

Cboe Europe Equities had an overall market share of 22 percent during January, its highest level since February 2019 .

. Cboe LIS, Cboe Europe's block trading platform, reported record average daily notional value (ADNV) traded of 608 million, beating the previous record of 572 million ADNV traded in March 2020 .

. Cboe Periodic Auctions reported record ADNV traded of 1.9 billion in January, beating the previous record of 1.7 billion ADNV traded in March 2020 .

Cboe Global Markets Average Revenue Per Contract/Net Revenue Capture Updated This Week

The company plans to report its average revenue per contract and net revenue capture data for the three months ended December 31, 2021, in its quarterly earnings news release, which is expected to be issued on Friday, February 4, 2022. The 2021 data sheets available on the website will be updated to include this information.

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Andrew Kirkland (pictured), 42, was found guilty of sexual assault on a girl under the age of 13 years following a four-day trial at Reading Crown Court

A disgraced Metropolitan Police officer who sexually assaulted a seven-year-old girl after sneaking into her bedroom at night has been jailed for four years.

Andrew Kirkland, 42, crept into his victims room and pulled down her bed sheets before performing a sex act, Reading Crown Court heard.

Jurors were told that traces of his semen were found on the child's pyjamas and sheets after her mother suspected Kirkland and handed them over to police.

The jury returned a unanimous verdict Thursday following a four-day trial, finding Kirkland guilty of sexual assault on a girl under the age of 13 years.

Judge Kirsty Real sentenced him to four years' imprisonment and he will remain on the sex offenders' register for life.

Kirkland, a former neighbourhood officer based in Ickenham, London, was kicked out of the Met for theft and fraud in 2014, the court heard.

At trial, prosecutor Paul Fairley explained how Kirkland encountered a seven-year-old child in Berkshire in March 2021.

He told the jury that Kirkland had gone into the child's room at night and had pleasured himself over her, believing the little girl was asleep.

The prosecutor added: 'The next thing that the mother remembers is her daughter at the door saying 'my bed's wet' and saying someone had made it wet but it was not her.

'She said she thought a man had been taking photos of her on his phone.

'As you could imagine, her mind was going at 1,000 miles an hour and racing all over the place.'

Mr Fairley told the jury that the girl's mother immediately took the bedsheets and Kirkland's phone to the children's school, where police were called.

Officers seized the bedding, the girl's nightie and Kirkland's phone and arrested him for questioning.

DNA evidence taken from the samples given to police revealed that there were semen traces on three items, including the victim's bedsheets and pyjamas, all matching with that of Kirkland's.

Kirkland (pictured), a former neighbourhood officer based in Ickenham, London, was kicked out of the Met for theft and fraud in 2014, the court heard

Sarah Kalageros, a DNA expert, told the court: 'In my opinion, the scientific findings provide extremely strong support for the view that Andrew Kirkland had entered the victim's bedroom and ejaculated onto the bed rather than he did not.'

Kirkland maintained in his defence in court that the semen was on the bedclothes because he had performed a sex act alone earlier and may have had semen on his hands.

Less than three hours after the jury was sent out to consider its verdict, the panel filed back into crown court and convicted him on the charge of sexual assault on a child.

As the verdict was announced, loud sighs of relief could be heard from the public gallery.

Kirkland's head fell into his hands after hearing the word 'guilty.'

The prosecutor then read a statement from the child's mother, who cannot be identified for legal reasons.

She said the child kept thinking she was seeing Kirkland and hearing him throughout the day, and that while walking down the road certain noises would make her jump.

Kirkland was dismissed from the Metropolitan Police in 2014, after having convictions for theft by an employee, taking money from the workplace and two counts of fraud by abuse of position.

Kirkland (pictured) maintained in his defence in court that the semen was on the bedclothes because he had performed a sex act alone earlier and may have had semen on his hands

One of the latter charges related to an incident were he was convicted for using his work phone to contact sex chat lines, the court heard.

Defending the former policeman, Colin McCarraher said: 'He is an ex-Metropolitan Police officer. When he goes off to serve his sentence, that will not be an easy sentence to serve. He is an ex-copper.'

Sentencing Kirkland, Judge Kirsty Real said: 'The victim was particularly vulnerable, ostensibly asleep and at a young age.'

She had earlier been told that detectives found internet searches on Kirkland's phone for porn websites which included how to get into bed with a sleeping person.

The judge added that, although the pornographic videos found on his phone 'showed contemplation, there was no significant planning.'

Kirkland, of Leicester, was sentenced to four year's imprisonment.

He was also ordered to sign onto the Sex Offender's Register for the rest of his life and a Sexual Prevention Harm Order application is to be adjusted at a later date.
Patna, Feb 3 (PTI) A nine-year-old girl fell to death while her elder sister, also a minor, was severely injured after they were pushed off a multi-storied building's rooftop by a neighbor in Patna on Thursday, police said.

The shocking incident took place in Bahadurpur police station area of the city where irate locals beat up the accused person, set fire to a couple of vehicles and roughed up police personnel who tried to bring the situation under control.

Also Read | Rajasthan Horror: Minor Girl From Ratlam Raped By Man On Pretext Of Marrying Her In Banswara; Case Registered.

"The father of the girls is a fruit vendor. One of them is dead while the other, aged 12, has been rushed to a hospital in a critical condition. They were hanging clothes to dry when Vivek Kumar attacked them," said Amit Sharan, the Deputy Superintendent of Police (City).

The accused has been arrested and appeared to be "mentally unstable", said Sharan, adding that he was from Darbhanga district and have been living in a rented room here for about a decade.

Also Read | Param Pravega: India Gets New Supercomputer, the Most Powerful So Far.

"Vivek, like a large number of young men living in the area, was preparing for competitive examinations. It is not yet clear why he behaved in such an outrageous manner," said the Deputy SP.

He claimed that the situation has been brought under control though a number of police personnel, including Bahadurpur SHO Sanovar Khan, ended up sustaining injuries while trying to prevent the locals from vandalism.

An FIR will be registered based on the statement given by the injured sister, said the Deputy SP.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Photo credit: simon_leviev_official/Instagram

Simon Leviev (a.k.a the Tinder Swindler) duped women around the world out of an estimated $10 million.

A new Netflix documentary is now exploring how he did it, how it got this far, and his eventual downfall at the hands of his victims.

His con came to an end in 2019and he is now back in Israel.

A spokesperson said Tinder can confirm Simon Leviev is not active on Tinder under any of his known aliases.



Netflix is completely owning the true crime game lately, and the streaming service has a new documentary you definitely dont want to miss. Its called The Tinder Swindler and it tells the story of a man who claimed to be Simon Leviev, a son of a diamond billionaire.

Simon ran through a series of cons to get millions of dollars from women he met on Tinder, jumping to the next victim before a woman realizes whats actually happened. The story is fascinating and terrifying at onceand its already trending on Netflix despite only being released on Wednesday.



But who is the man behind The Tinder Swindler and where is he now? Heres what you need to know.

What is the Tinder Swindlers real name?

While he usually went by the name Simon Leviev, the Tinder Swindler's real name is Shimon Yehuda Hayut. Shimon has a rap sheet and had to flee to Israel when he was in his 20s.

How did the Tinder Swindler con women?

Several women shared in the documentary that Simon claimed to be the son of diamond billionaire Lev Leviev, who is a real person. (Leviev reportedly has nine kids, BTW.)

Simon would find women on Tinder and blow them away with things like rides on private jets and stays at luxury hotels. But eventually, he would fake some kind of crisis and get them to pony up thousands upon thousands of dollars to help him outranging from $20,000 to more than $140,000. By the time a woman realizes shes been the victim of an elaborate con, hes moved on to the next woman.

Simon swindled women around the world.

Simon moved through women from all over the worldincluding London, Rome, Barcelona, Mykonos, and Tel Aviv.

Story continues

Photo credit: Pernilla Sjoholm/Instagram

He fled Israel to avoid charges.

Simons criminal behavior goes back more than a decade. He was charged in Israel with theft, forgery, and fraud in 2011 for cashing stolen checks, according to The Times of Israel. But, the paper says, he fled the country before he was sentenced.

Photo credit: TORE KRISTIANSEN - Getty Images

He was caught and convicted in Finland for defrauding women and was sent back to Israel in 2017, but he fled the country again, the paper says.

Did Simon go to jail?

Simon was arrested in Athens, Greecethanks to intel provided by his victims Cecilie Fjellhy, Pernilla Sjoholm, and Ayleen Charlotte.

The Times of Israel says that he was imprisoned in Israel after pleading guilty to fraud charges, but was released after serving five months of a 15-month sentence reportedly as part of a program aimed at reducing the prison population amid fears of a coronavirus outbreak among inmates.

So, where is Simon Leviev now?



After he got out of jail, Simon started posting photos of himself doing rich people things on Instagramlike hanging out in private jets, smoking a cigar on a yacht, and hanging out in an expensive-looking car.

FWIW: He hasnt posted since October, although it's unclear if that's related to the documentary or something else.

Simon actually did an interview with Israels News 13 where he said he was wronged for things I never did. I always loved the good life, I will not lie. When he was asked if he had any connection with the Leviev family, Simon said, I did not know there was a copyright to this family name.

Is Simon still on Tinder?

Nope: He's officially been banned from the app.

"We banned Simon Leviev and any of his known aliases as soon as the story of his actions became public in 2019," a Tinder spokesperson told E! News. "In the lead up to the release of the documentary, we conducted additional internal investigations and can confirm Simon Leviev is not active on Tinder under any of his known aliases." (So you can resume swiping as usual!)

Does Simon have a girlfriend?

So, he's not on Tinder anymore. But based on social media, he seems to have settled down with an Israeli model, per Metro UK. Her identity is not known, and no one knows how long they've been together.

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Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer has blasted the outlandish theories of election deniers in the past, but on Wednesday he said he is flattered that far-right deniers of the 2020 election results are running for state office this year.

It means they care enough to try to fix the system, said Richer, whose comments came as part of a bipartisan panel of officials from around the country talking about steps that need to be taken to restore voter confidence in the system before this falls elections.

Were actually really excited to be moving into the 2022 general elections, just because we hope that that will shift the conversation, finally, away from 2020, Richer said.

But while panelists preferred to look forward, other voting rights advocates said officials cannot afford to ignore the ongoing threat posed by election deniers.

In our hearts, we should look beyond the 2020 election, said Alex Gulotta, the Arizona state director at All Voting is Local. But  if politicians down at the Capitol want to do something, what they should be doing is looking at ways our elections were undermined and stopping them.

Gulotta said there are currently about 70 bills in the Arizona Legislature aimed at restricting voting access, bills he thinks are garbage that no serious person should put their name on. They include bills that would eliminate mail-in voting, mandate hand counting of all ballots and allow the Legislature to nullify election results.

Sponsors on those bills include Reps. Shawnna Bolick, R-Phoenix, and Mark Finchem, R-Oro Valley, both of whom have called for overturning the 2020 presidential election. And both are running to be the next secretary of state, potentially making a 2020 election denier the states top elections official.

Richer said he welcomes such candidates into the race, saying he feels flattered that they trust the election process enough to run for office.

Theres no greater sign of approval, that youre willing to spend a year of your life, a lot of your own money  running for the system, he said. These people are revealing their true opinion that they dont think that the system is wholly corrupt.

But Richer also said Wednesday that one of the biggest threats to the voting system currently is elected officials refusing to accept the 2020 election results. He used even harsher language in an open letter to Arizona Republicans last August.

Im embarrassed listening to my party concoct the most outlandish theories (Chinese ballots!) to avoid accepting the reality: We lost the top two races in Arizona, he said, referring to Democratic victories in the presidential and U.S. Senate races in the state.

Gulotta and State Rep. Reginald Bolding Jr., D-Laveen, agreed with Richer that election deniers spreading conspiracy theories and winning government offices are threatening election integrity and breaking their constituents trust in the election system. But neither was flattered by deniers seeking to run the election system.

As elected leaders, I believe we do have a responsibility, regardless of party affiliation, to ensure that were giving the public accurate information. And that information is that we have free and fair elections, and it (the 2020 election) is probably one of the most heavily scrutinized and transparent elections in our states history, Bolding said.

Gulotta said its vital to work toward passing federal voting rights bills like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancements Act of 2021 and the Freedom to Vote Act, to keep states from passing bills that would do huge damage to all voters, not just Republicans or Democrats or young or old.

They will do huge damage to large cross sections of voters, but they (state Republicans) dont care. They hope itll hurt someone elses votes more than their votes, he said.

Those bills, which would do everything from expanding mail-in voting to making Election Day a federal holiday, have stalled in the Senate where Republicans have filibustered the measures and two Democrats  including Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz.  have refused to join the rest of the party to get around the filibuster.

Richer thinks that rather than passing federal legislation, lawmakers at all levels should focus on the publics general distrust in the election process, calling claims of voter fraud and mass disenfranchisement in 2020 unsubstantiated. And he cautioned that politicians who keep pushing election fraud claims could see them backfire.

I think if youre a voter, you have to say, Youre saying that (there was fraud), but you also want me to donate to your campaign and you want me to vote for you, so you know  those are maybe a little inconsistent, help me out here, Richer said.

Candidates then will have to say they have confidence in the 2022 elections, he said.

I dont know why its any different from 2020. But, you know, were glad that they have confidence in this 2022 election, Richer said.
A deers head was cut from its body and found near an Oregon neighborhood, wildlife officials said.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is searching for the person who left a deer to waste near Springfield homes on Dec. 9.

According to authorities, the man shot the deer from a private driveway near Upper Camp Creek Road in Springfield, Fish and Wildlife said in a Feb. 2 news release. Troopers arent sure if the man realized how close he was to nearby residences.

The man killed the animal near someones house. A passerby asked the man what he was doing, and he took off in a Chevy pickup, officials said.

The person didnt suspect the man was doing anything illegal but thought it was strange that the man drove off.

Shortly after, someone discovered the deers carcass and head, officials said. Neighbors notified an (Oregon State Police) Fish and Wildlife trooper of the incident.

Wildlife officials headed to the scene with a K-9 trained to find carcasses.

Our K-9 Buck is extremely useful in cases like this, Senior Trooper Josh Wolcott said in a news release. He can locate evidence by scent, which otherwise would require several troopers with metal detectors running a grid pattern to find. And it doesnt matter if its dark out, as it was in this incident.

The bucks head was lying next to its body, a photo shows. The poacher had cut the deers head off as a trophy, wildlife officials said.

Neighbors helped troopers with the deer, and its meat was donated to a local church.

Officials ask that anyone with information contact the Oregon State Police at 1-800-452-7888.

Springfield is about 110 miles south of Portland.

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In what is being called a baby step toward creating a less car-dependent community, the city of La Crosse is looking at no longer requiring certain businesses to provide a minimum amount of off-street parking.

A change to the current ordinance was approved by the Neighborhood Revitalization Commission on Wednesday night and will now make its way to the La Crosse Common Council.

The change specifically eliminates a requirement that nonresidential establishments in the citys commercial zoning districts need to have a certain amount of parking spots for its patrons or staff.

This means a developer of a new restaurant or store under this zoning would not necessarily need to include a parking lot or parking stalls in its design unless they wanted to.

What were saying is businesses can decide, developers can decide, other market forces can decide, said council member Jennifer Trost, who has been working on the change. Were taking taking it out of code and leaving it up to these other entities which are better judges of how much parking they do or do not need to provide.

This has been in the works for some time, officials said, and its only one small step in a greater plan to design a city that focuses more on people, rather than cars, and part of a discussion that looks at how the city uses its very scarce amount of land.

Youre used to driving, youre used to being able to park easily, you take it for granted  but lets look underneath that to see what kinds of things we cant do because we get to park conveniently, Trost said.

Currently, facilities in the citys commercial zoning districts are required to provide a certain amount of off-street parking based on things such as its size, what type of business it is, the amount of bedrooms it houses or number of employees on its payroll.

A retail store or restaurant, for example, is currently required to provide one parking space for each 150 square feet of floor area. A bowling alley is required to have five parking spaces for each alley, plus additional spaces if it also has a bar or restaurant inside.

A day care is required to have two parking sites for the first 10 children it supervises, and one parking space for every two employees. A single-family home requires two parking spaces and an apartment building needs at least one-and-a-half parking spaces for each unit, depending on how many bedrooms.

Trost said ideally, the city could get to a point where there would be no off-street parking requirements for anyone, including residential spaces.

The negative effects of the current parking requirements can be seen as the city faces a shortage of undeveloped land, and developers that come forward with plans often ask for exceptions to parking minimums.

And removing parking requirements for residential spaces could leave more room for additional housing, an issue pegged as a high priority by city officials.

This is kind-of a step toward eliminating all of these minimums so that instead of building two extra parking spaces we can get a one-bedroom apartment, Trost said.

The original plans included bringing forth changes to the residential part of the zoning districts, too, but its on hold for now and could circle back next month.

Trost said starting with commercial spaces is a baby step for the city.

Just sort of getting rid of [residential requirements] isnt going to go over well, Trost said, saying there would likely be a mixed response from landlords, and there would be concern in certain neighborhoods about cars clogging up streets.

The committee discussed another idea that is still in very early stages that would implement a transportation demand management program or TDM, which would essentially provide strategies for developers and the city on ways to promote alternative transportation methods.

Some examples of TDM strategies include secure, indoor bike storage for apartment buildings, offering free bus passes to tenants, providing shared vehicles, or not including as many parking spots if an apartment building is located along a bus route.

This allows bigger developments to move forward and have as much parking as they want, but make them take a pause to consider ways of encouraging less car-usage, said city associate planner Jack Zabrowski.

Other cities have established similar plans, including Madison, Minneapolis and Denver, and some have also similarly eliminated minimum parking requirements.

Trost described a TDM program as an alternative option to eliminating minimum parking requirements for housing while still reducing the amount of space the city uses on parking. Its also a potential way to address the problem before it needs a solution.

Although the TDM plan is common in other communities, its nowhere near ready for La Crosse, Trost said, and it will head back to be workshopped and potentially brought forward in the future.

One lingering question is how any of these changes would interact differently with new and existing facilities and whether they would be able to be applied retroactively.

The minimum parking requirement change for businesses will move forward in the meantime. It was unclear as of Thursday afternoon which body the item would go to next for approval.

There are other areas in the city that dont currently require any off-street parking, including downtown, some North Side business districts and industrial zoning districts.

The change wouldnt mean businesses couldnt offer off-street parking if they wanted to, just that the city wouldnt require a certain amount.

Officials said to-date there wasnt much resistance to this change, but hoped the city would promote it well to the public in order to get feedback.
Charleston, South Carolina, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jeff Cook Real Estate enjoys celebrating the success of their agents and each year hosts an end-of-the-year Christmas Award Ceremony for the company. Jeff Cook Real Estate has 8 sales offices located all over the state of South Carolina in Charleston, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, Greenville, and Rock Hill and helped serve over 1,700 families in 2021! This would not have been possible without the hard work of its 200+ real estate agents. The average agent nationwide produces about $2 million in volume in a single year. Jeff Cook Real Estates agents that received an award far exceeded the national average for volume.

The 2021 top producers are listed below:

Jason Husted

106 Families Served

$34 Million in Closed Volume

Patrick Floyd

23 Families Served

$20 Million in Closed Volume

Dalton Hunter

32 Families Served

$17 Million in Closed Volume

Ryan McHugh

42 Families Served

$16 Million in Closed Volume

Cindy Nicholas

51 Families Served

$15 Million in Closed Volume

Kirk Miller

49 Families Served

$15 Million in Closed Volume

Nancy Walsh

40 Families Served

$13 Million in Closed Volume

Amy Weedo

32 Families Served

$11 Million in Closed Volume

Lori & Victoria Smith-Stauder

34 Families Served

$11 Million in Closed Volume

In addition to celebrating our agents' success, we were able to celebrate Jeff Cook Real Estates community giveback initiative, Jeff Cook Cares, donating a total of $134,152.09 in 2021. These donations come from 1% of the companys commission off of each real estate transaction.

The company's agents also have the opportunity to personally donate a portion of their commission to Jeff Cook Cares in addition to the donation made by the company. The total donated by agents in 2021 totaled over $18,000. The agent who personally donated the most in 2021 was Cindy Nicholas! Jeff Cook Cares donations benefit local organizations and initiatives such as Closet of Hope, Chair the Love, March of Dimes, Animal Societies, Charleston Hope, The Navigation Center, and more.

If you are interested in joining Jeff Cook Real Estate visit: JoinJCRE.com

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The dangerous Ross River virus has been detected in mosquitoes with the insects drawn out in force following wild weather and heavy rain.

Queensland Health discovered the virus spreading among the blood-sucking insects in north and south Brisbane on Thursday.

Metro North public health unit entomologist Jonathan Darbro said the virus can cause a range of debilitating symptoms including joint pain, rashes and fatigue.

A dangerous virus has been detected in mosquitoes with the insects drawn out in force following wild weather and heavy rain

Parts of Queensland was inundated by heavy rain following scorching temperatures earlier this week

One house had the roof ripped away in the wild winds with a brick chimney also toppled (pictured)

'Ross River virus can be transmitted to humans through the bite of several different types of mosquitoes commonly found throughout Queensland,' he said.

'By identifying the virus early through this technology, we can educate the community and potentially prevent Ross River virus infection.'

The number of Ross River cases has jumped drastically in Queensland in recent years.

Some 1,622 residents reported catching the virus in 2019, before the figure spiked to 3,382 in 2020.

Metro North public health physician Megan Young warned there was currently no protection against the virus and that it could take months to recover from it.

'There is no vaccine or specific treatment available for Ross River virus infection, so the best thing people can do is take a preventative approach and avoid being bitten by mosquitoes,' Dr Young told Brisbane Times.

Residents have been warned to avoid outdoor activities during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

A large tree collapsed on this house narrowly avoiding the main structure (pictured)

The Logan area was already hit by a heatwave when the storm hit on Tuesday afternoon (pictured)

They should also wear long-sleeved clothings and mosquito repellent.

The warning comes after parts of the state was lashed by heavy rain and damaging winds throughout the week.

On Tuesday afternoon, a wild storm ripped through the south-east Queensland city of Logan, tearing roofs from houses, toppling trees and leaving 20,000 properties without power.

Rathdowny, about an hour south-west of Logan in the Darling Down region, was drenched with 52mm of rain recorded between 4 and 5pm.

The heavy rain followed scorching weather as south-east Queenslanders sweltered through temperatures in the high 30's while further west exceeded 40C combined with high humidity thanks to recent rains and the La Nina weather system.

The mercury in Brisbane hit 36C on Tuesday with an apparent temperature of 39C.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

An Academic Analytics Research Center (AARC) study published in the journal PLOS ONE has found that the social sciences are changing: In the last decade, journal article publications have increased, while the publication of books has declined. The overall increase in scholarly journal articles in recent decades is widely documented, but whether that increase impacts other publishing types remains unknown. "The majority of publications in most STEM fields are journal articles, but in the social sciences books also play an important role in how scholars communicate their findings, so the social sciences were a great place to explore publication patterns," said study co-author Anthony J. Olejniczak.

The study explored publishing patterns throughout the 2010s in more than 1,500 academic departments at 280 American research universities across twelve social sciences disciplines. Book publications decreased between 34% and 54% over the study period, while journal article publications increased by as much as 64%. According co-author to William Savage, "Changing research methodologies and the emergence of performance-based funding mechanisms have substantially altered the way social science researchers approach research dissemination. Increased collaboration through research teams, a heightened tempo of publishing, and the timely delivery of results to funding agencies all impel social science researchers toward peer-reviewed journal articles rather than books."

Declining book authorship was observed across age cohorts, although increasing journal article publishing expectations for early career researchers may contribute to the shifting publishing behaviors observed. The decline in books published is likely to impact library acquisitions strategies.

The authors also note that declining book publications "may have detrimental effects for social sciences disciplines most closely related to the humanities. Long-form scholarly publishing provides the place and space to explore a topic in detail, analyzing subjects with greater contextualization than shorter-form journal articles typically allow," Richard Wheeler, Graduate Dean Emeritus, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Senior Advisor to AARC (who was not a part of the study), commented. "With remarkable precision, this study demonstrates trends in social science publication patterns in the 2010s and identifies factors external to and internal to the research itself that have driven significant changes. Their findings will likely spawn more studies that explore the many issues the data raise, including an accelerating dissolution of an old kinship between social sciences and humanities disciplines."

Explore further Comprehensive scholarly publishing dataset shows publication rates in 170 disciplines at US universities

More information: William E. Savage et al, More journal articles and fewer books: Publication practices in the social sciences in the 2010's, PLOS ONE (2022). Journal information: PLoS ONE William E. Savage et al, More journal articles and fewer books: Publication practices in the social sciences in the 2010's,(2022). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263410

Provided by Academic Analytics Research Center (AARC)
James McAvoy has confirmed that he secretly married his American partner, Lisa Liberati.

The actor was rumoured to have married the personal assistant in 2019, but until now he had refused to confirm whether the reports were true.

In a new interview with The Guardian, writer Arifa Akbar stated that after the pair met on the set of Split, they began a relationship a couple of years later and, he confirms, recently got married.

As Liberati is from Philadelphia, McAvoy was asked if he is now an honorary Philadelphian, to which he replied: Yeah, its like a second home for me.

McAvoy, 42, met the Liberati on the set of M Night Shyamalans thriller Split (Liberati was Shyamalans PA).

McAvoy played the lead role in the film, a psychological horror about a man with 24 different personalities who kidnaps and imprisons three teenage girls.

During filming, McAvoy was in the process of separating from actor Anne-Marie Duff after 11 years of marriage.

Two months after the divorce was finalised, McAvoy and Liberati made their relationship official on Instagram.

Rumours that the pair had got married began after director Jamie Lloyd, who is a close friend of the McAvoys, was overheard referring to Liberati as the actors wife.
FORT BRAGG  A first wave of soldiers boarded C-17s at Fort Bragg on Thursday, as paratroopers with the 82nd Airborne Division and soldiers part of the 18th Airborne Corps deployed to Europe.

The troops are going in support of NATO allies and partners in deterring Russian aggression, said Capt. Matthew Visser, a spokesman for the 18th Airborne Corps.

Soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division arrive at green ramp at Pope Army Airfield for a deployment to Eastern Europe on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022.

The soldiers of 18th Airborne Corps and the 82nd Airborne Division are always ready as Americas contingency corps (and) have the responsibility to mobilize on a moments notice to deploy supporting whatever operation it is, Visser said.

More: Fort Bragg 82nd Airborne Division paratroopers, 18th Airborne Corps soldiers head to Europe

About 1,700 paratroopers who are part of an infantry brigade combat team will go to Poland, as the 18th Airborne Corps moves a joint task force headquarters to Germany.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday that the troops are deploying to bolster capabilities inside NATOs eastern flank. after Russian President Vladimir Putin has massed troops on Ukraines border for months, raising concerns of an imminent incursion or full-scale invasion.

The Pentagon estimates there are more than 100,000 Russian forces near the Ukrainian border.

Soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division head out to a C-17 cargo plane at Pope Army Airfield for a deployment to Eastern Europe on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022.

President Joe Biden has been clear, that the U.S. will respond to the growing threat," Kirby said.

Kirby said Wednesday that U.S. officials dont know if Russia has made a final decision to further invade the Ukraine, but Putin continues to add more forces to the western part of his country and Belarus.

We're going to be prepared to defend our NATO allies if it comes to that, Kirby said. Hopefully, it won't come to that.

Visser said paratroopers in the division and soldiers in the Corps prepare for different operations, which have included deployments in recent years to Haiti or Kabul, Afghanistan for a noncombatant evacuation operation in August.

Soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division get themselves and their gear weighed as the prepare to deploy from Fort Bragg to Eastern Europe on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022.

He said the deployment to Europe communicates a message thats connected to the units lineage during World War II in Normandy, Bastogne and Luxembourg.

Story continues

This is why people choose to come to Fort Bragg  Its the most ready, and when you come to Fort Bragg, its no surprise that this could be the scenario that you're in  that you get to deploy and that you get to support what the country needs, Visser said.

'Our organization is devastated': Fort Bragg command identifies soldier who died in crash

Lt. Col. Brad Jordan is among those deploying soldiers, He's been in the Army for 20 years with previous deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

He said that there are a lot of unknowns but that the Fort Bragg soldiers are ready to join forces with allied partners if the NATO response force requires that coordination.

I know that sounds new for a lot of people, but it doesnt really go away, so that continued working with our NATO allies has not stopped, Jordan said.

Soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division board a C-17 cargo plane at Pope Army Airfield for a deployment to Eastern Europe on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022.

Jordan said he is confident with the training the soldiers have received.

Personally, he said, this will not be the first deployment that his 13-year-old son and 11-year-old daughter have gone through to experience him being gone.

Previous reporting: Fort Bragg troops from 82nd Airborne Division, 18th Airborne Corps on heightened alert due to possible invasion of Ukraine

But hes left them with something while hes gone.

Each one of my kids have half of a dog tag, Jordan said. I have the other half. It just reminds them that Im there.

Visser said families that remain on the home front will be supported by a variety of Army Community Services and Fort Bragg readiness groups.

Soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division board a C-17 cargo plane at Pope Army Airfield for a deployment to Eastern Europe on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022.

Visser said it is not known how long the mission will last.

From the moment they stepped into the Green Ramp passenger shed on Thursday, troops were briefed by leaders and had the chance to participate in a benediction.

We want to make sure that every soldier that leaves this airfield, that gets onto an aircraft, understands what their mission is, know that they're supported by the soldiers to the left and to the right, and know that their leadership is here to take care of them to make sure that they get back safe, Visser said.

Soldiers also had support from veteran and military service organizations.

A soldier talks on the phone as he waits to board a C-17 cargo plane to deploy from Fort Bragg to Eastern Europe on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022.

Roland Rochester, a Marine veteran and national recruiter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, said hes been shaking hands with Fort Bragg troops that have deployed and redeployed since 2002.

I tell them to be safe, Rochester said.

What is Fort Bragg? Military post near Fayetteville was an answer on 'Jeopardy!'

The USO of North Carolina was also on site to hand out food and personal care kits consisting of toothpaste, shaving cream and other toiletries.

When the paratroopers and the soldiers are prepared to deploy, the USO is right there with them, said Barry Morris, a regional communications manager for the USO. Our mission is strengthening America's service members by keeping them connected (to) family, home, country.

Staff writer Rachael Riley can be reached at rriley@fayobserver.com or 910-486-3528.

Support local journalism with a subscription to The Fayetteville Observer. Click the "subscribe'' link at the top of this article.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Fort Bragg soldiers deploy for Europe amid Russian aggression
London: Four of Boris Johnsons most senior staff quit on Thursday, triggering new turmoil for the embattled British Prime Minister.

Johnsons office said Chief of Staff Dan Rosenfield and Principal Private Secretary Martin Reynolds had both tendered their resignations. Director of Communications Jack Doyle and senior adviser Munira Mirza also said they had left Downing Street.

Under fire: Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Credit:Getty

Reynolds is a key figure in the party gate scandal over lockdown-breaching parties held by Johnson and his staff during the coronavirus pandemic. He sent an invitation to about 100 staff to a bring your own booze garden party in May 2020, when Britons were banned from socialising in groups as part of restrictions to slow the spread of COVID.

The garden gathering is one of 16 alleged parties under investigation by senior civil servant Sue Gray. A dozen of the events are also being investigated by the Metropolitan Police.
The Northern Ireland Secretary has said he is extremely disappointed at the resignation of the regions First Minister.

Paul Givan made the announcement, which will also remove deputy First Minister Michelle ONeill from office from midnight, as part of the DUPs protest against the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Brandon Lewis has urged the DUP to reinstate Mr Givan immediately to ensure the necessary delivery of public services for the citizens of Northern Ireland.

My statement on the resignation of Northern Irelands First Minister https://t.co/01pzPb5SCW pic.twitter.com/LR497nMOeA  Brandon Lewis (@BrandonLewis) February 3, 2022

The UK Governments priority is to see a strong functioning Northern Ireland Executive delivering a better, more prosperous, shared future for all the people of Northern Ireland, he said.

Mr Lewis said he recognises the impact of the Protocol on the ground.

The UK Government has been clear for some time that the Protocol has been causing serious problems, unbalancing the delicate and hard-won political stability in Northern Ireland, he said.

We remain fully committed to fixing the problems with the Protocol and to protect the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement in all its dimensions. We will continue our intensive talks with the EU in order to resolve these.

First Minister of Northern Ireland Paul Givan speaking to the media at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast, following his announcement that he will resign his post in a Brexit protocol protest (Peter Morrison/PA)

The Northern Ireland Secretary said he will be speaking to the leaders of the five largest parties in Northern Ireland as well as the Irish Government to encourage a return to stable devolved government in Northern Ireland.

I hope that Northern Irelands political leaders will take the necessary steps to restore the stability in the devolved institutions that the people of Northern Ireland deserve, he said.
Morocco was elected on Thursday for a three-year term to the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union by the Executive Council of the African organization.

The Kingdom received more than two-thirds of the votes in this election. The election of Morocco and the fourteen other members for terms ranging between two and three years took place on the occasion of the 40th ordinary session of the AU Executive Council held on February 2-3 at the headquarters of the pan-African organization in Addis Abeba.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs leads the Moroccan delegation to this session, where the election and appointment of fifteen members of the Peace and Security Council was among the highlights of the event.

Morocco had sat on the AU Peace and Security Council for a two-year term (2018-2020), during which the Kingdom contributed constructively to improving working methods and the establishment of good practices.

The Peace and Security Council (PSC) is the standing decision-making organ of the AU for the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts. It is a collective security and early warning arrangement intended to facilitate timely and efficient responses to conflict and crisis situations in Africa.
Superior Court Judge William Carey is set to retire later this month after finishing his final trials in Petersburg and Ketchikan.

Carey has served as a superior court judge for the area since 2009 after being appointed to the position by Governor Sarah Palin and in that time has presided over trials across Southeast Alaska.

Originally from Massachusetts, Carey earned his bachelor's degree in political science from Brown University in 1976 and a law degree from the University of Denver in 1980.

He moved to Alaska in the summer of 1980 to work as a legal intern with the Cook Inlet Native Ass...
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Racist policies and practices that restrict Black workers from employment may drive racial inequities in birth outcomes among workers. In the United States, Black infants are 50% more likely to be born prematurely than white infants, and they are 2.3 times as likely to die before their first birthday. Health equity experts at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health (SPH) are working to explain why these pervasive inequities persist.

A new study, led by postdoctoral fellow Bert Chantarat, Ph.D., from the SPH Center for Antiracism Research and Health Equity (CARHE), looked at the association between structural racism and low birth weights for Black birthing people in 635 U.S. labor markets.

"The stress and disadvantage of structural racism builds up in a person's body over the course of their lifetime," said study co-author and CARHE director, Associate Professor, and Blue Cross Endowed Professor of Health and Racial Equity Rachel Hardeman. "Inequities that Black birthing people face searching for jobs and at work are bad for them and their infants."

Structural racism impacts the lives of Black people in ways that intersect economics, geography, history, and culture including labor markets. The researchers defined labor markets as geographic areas where workers live, search for jobs, and commute to work. The extent of structural racism in labor markets was measured by looking at different probabilities of employment for equally qualified white and Black workers using data from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey. The national survey asks Americans about various information including their educational attainment, employment status, and the type of work they do.

Data on newborn birth weight came from the U.S. birth records which allows researchers to compare the risk for Black workers from various nativity groups living and working in specific regions of the U.S.

The researchers found:

For U.S.-born Black pregnant people, living in racist labor markets was associated with low birthweight specifically in the Southern regions of the U.S.

However, there were not statistically significant increases in risk for Caribbean-born or African-born Black pregnant people, which reinforces that racism, not race, is the risk factor.

"Not having access to health-promoting resources that generally come from work or feeling extra stress landing a high-quality job because you're Black can affect your health, as well as your infant's health," said Chantarat. "If we want to truly eliminate birth inequities, we need to get rid of the system that places equally qualified workers into different employment because of their race."

Work policies to ensure equal employment access and workplace inclusion are viable solutions to birth inequities. However, "one-size-fit-all" solutions may not be sufficient. Future research and policy recommendations must factor in the local, historical, and cultural context of different communities.

Explore further Over-policing linked to higher odds of preterm birth

More information: Tongtan Chantarat et al, Where are the labor markets?: Examining the association between structural racism in labor markets and infant birth weight, Health & Place (2022). Journal information: Health & Place Tongtan Chantarat et al, Where are the labor markets?: Examining the association between structural racism in labor markets and infant birth weight,(2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102742
A task force that advises the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education on Thursday endorsed Gov. John Bel Edwards' plan to boost teacher pay by $1,500 per year and freeze state aid to public schools.

The panel often exceeds the governor's recommendations on school aid and teacher pay hikes. But this time even panel members who usually get behind those efforts said doing so now would be hard to sell to lawmakers since public schools are getting nearly $4 billion in federal coronavirus aid.

A bid to boost state aid for public schools by about $80 million failed.

"I do not believe the Legislature will pass this," said Caroline Roemer, executive director of the Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools, who often gets behind efforts to go beyond the governor's education aid request. "I do not believe BESE will pass this," she added.

BESE is expected to submit its education funding request to the Legislature when it meets March 8-9.

Panel backs $80 million hike in education spending; doubles governor's request A key state panel Tuesday voted to double Gov. John Bel Edwards' public schools spending proposal, adding a $40 million hike for public school

Lawmakers can only accept or reject the funding plan but cannot change it.

The push to recommend an $80 million boost for public schools was led by Jackson Parish Superintendent David Claxton, whose district is in northeast Louisiana.

Claxton noted that school districts continue to face rising costs of health insurance and other expenses and that the federal aid comes with restrictions.

"That can't be used for normal operations that we do," he said.

State commitment to public schools panned in national report Louisiana deserves "D's" for its financial support of public schools, how the money is allocated and the state's commitment to education, acco

State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley, another task force member, voted against the proposal.

Brumley said submitting such a request to the Legislature means "we will hear that school systems have $4 billion that can be used between now and 2024."

Barry Erwin, president of the Council for a Better Louisiana, echoed that view.

"This is not the right time to do this," Erwin said. "There is so much money out there."

The panel later approved a proposal by Brumley to back Edwards' $1,500 teacher pay raise and a $750 hike for support workers, which would cost $148 million per year.

The motion also says that, if the state recognizes more revenue, the panel favors teacher pay raises of at least $2,000 and $1,000 for support workers.

The additional boost for support workers was pushed by Tia Mills, president of the Louisiana Association of Educators.

Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne told the group Edwards has pledged to boost his teacher pay raise request to $2,000 annually if the Revenue Estimating Conference recognizes more dollars for spending in May, which Dardenne said is likely.

Teacher pay trails most of the region; governor has vowed to end the gap A new survey shows average teacher pay in Louisiana is 12th of 16 states in the South, which raises doubts on whether Gov. John Bel Edwards wi

Teachers won an $800 pay hike last year but remain well below the regional average, which the governor has vowed to reach before he leaves office in 2024.

The average pay for public school teachers in Louisiana is $51,566. The 16-state average for the region is $55,205.

The panel is called the Minimum Foundation Program Task Force.

The Minimum Foundation Program is the complex formula used to allocate about $4 billion per year for public schools.
COLUMBIA  A bill introduced by House Republicans would allow South Carolinians to vote early without needing an excuse but require people voting by mail to include their ID number.

The measure, sponsored by House Speaker Jay Lucas on Feb. 3, is a response to the 2020 elections that, for the first time, saw more South Carolinians vote early than on Election Day  sometimes standing in long lines to cast an early ballot.

A uniform, no-excuse-needed early voting option is long overdue, said Rep. Brandon Newton, the first of 45 GOP co-sponsors.

"During the last election we saw that voters liked the ability to vote in person early. Something we can agree on is that we want to make voting easier for people to do," said the Lancaster Republican. "And it makes sure the absentee process is still there as an option."

The bill would require every county to provide early-voting locations for two weeks before Election Day, with set hours of 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. They must open more than one location. The minimum number would vary by county, using a formula that involves total square miles and the number of registered voters, spaced at least 10 miles apart.

That's meant to provide access throughout the county, so all options aren't clumped in the county seat, for example, Newton said.

State law has long allowed people to vote absentee either by mail or at county offices ahead of the election, but they must select a reason for being unable to vote on Election Day. The various excuses they can check include being on vacation, having a disability, needing to work and being 65 or older.

In 2020, legislators allowed any registered voter to cast a ballot early without needing an excuse  or being forced to lie  either by person or mail. But those were temporary changes to state law that applied to 2020 only. And it was up to each county to decide where and when people could vote in person. Options were very limited in some counties, to include business hours only at the main office.

House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford applauded his GOP colleagues for "trying to fix the problem we have" by establishing no-excuse-needed early voting.

"That part is awesome," he said.

The Columbia Democrat said he wants more details on how the bill decides the minimum number of locations and distance between them, but "as long as we're going to more places, not less," he's supportive.

However, he called an ID requirement for mail-in absentee voting unnecessary "overkill."

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"We simply havent had problems with absentee ballots that need addressing," he said.

The bill would require voters seeking to vote by mail to include the number of their driver's license or other government-issued identification from an allowable list, to include federal military ID or a passport, on their application requesting a ballot.

Newton said that's to align mail-in voting with what's already required for in-person voting. But under state law, people who don't show ID at the poll can still vote if they present a non-photo voter registration card and sign an affidavit saying why they can't get a photo ID. Or they can sign a provisional ballot that can be counted after the election if they show a photo ID to county officials before the election's certified.

Newton noted photo ID cards are available for free through the state Department of Motor Vehicles and can be applied for online.

But with mail-in ballots already a multi-step process in South Carolina, requiring an ID number is a "step too far we don't need to go," Rutherford said. "It's not needed."

The bill would still require someone to sign the return envelope on a mail-in ballot. Witnesses will need to additionally write their name in print and provide their address.

Newton said there are no changes in letting anyone be a witness to the "voter's oath," but having the person's name in print will help ensure existing law is not being broken, since signatures are often not legible.

In 2020, Democrats sought to void needing a witness, saying it created a barrier for people who live alone and are quarantining due to COVID or just too scared to leave their home.

But the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the witness signature requirement that's been in state law since 1953, overturning an earlier decision from the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals. However, the nation's high court gave some leeway due to the back-and-forth rulings, specifying that ballots received before the reversal that lacked a witness signature would still count.

Nationally, Democrats have blasted Republican-led efforts to change election laws as making it harder for people to vote. But Newton scoffed at that argument being applied to this bill.

"I dont see how creating a no-excuse early voting process that includes two Saturdays and set hours in every county is restricting voting," he said. "Giving voters access is long overdue and we're providing an easy avenue, especially for those who work."
WAHOO  Images of tractors stuck in mud up to their cabs flashed on the screen as energetic rock n roll music played in the background.

Oh my! said more than one farmer as they saw the pictures. Several aaahhs could also be heard as the video was presented by Greg Peterson, one of the three Peterson Farm Brothers known for their popular YouTube videos highlighting agriculture.

Peterson provided the entertainment for the Saunders County Livestock Associations annual banquet Monday night at Starlite Event Center near Wahoo.

Peterson told the crowd of more than 400 area livestock producers, sponsors and family members how he got started making entertaining but informative videos about farming.

As a student majoring in agriculture communication and journalism at Kansas State University, Peterson got the idea during class one day as they discussed the gap between farmers and people who dont know where their food comes from.

Peterson realized he could spread the message about agriculture to a wide audience by using the internet.

We can reach people all over the world with our message about where food comes from and how farming works, he said.

But he didnt realize how wide the audience would get and how quickly it would grow. Enlisting the help of his two brothers, Nathan and Kendal, their first video reached 20,000 people on the first day and 150,000 after day 2. Eventually, the video had 11 million views.

In the video, the brothers show various aspects of the farm, from feeding cattle to harvesting alfalfa, with a few dance moves thrown in.

Within four days, they went from being on the local news to a national audience on Fox News.

After such great response to their first video, Peterson urged his brothers to make more. Since 2012, they have produced 28 videos that can be found on their YouTube channel, Peterson Farm Bros. They started a second YouTube channel in 2020 that focuses on long-form, educational vlogs about the family farm.

They parody popular songs to spread positive messages about agriculture. Their first video switched out the words of the song Im Sexy and I Know It to create the video Im Farming and I Grow It.

It is important to Peterson and his family that they utilize social media to inform the world about the significance of agriculture.

Every single person in this country is involved with agriculture because every single person eats food, Peterson said.

Petersons family farms in central Kansas near the small community of Assaria. They raise cattle and grow corn, alfalfa, sorghum, wheat, milo, soybeans and sunflowers on three farmsteads. Now, producing music videos is another commodity produced by the family farm.

The videos have also taken Peterson and his brothers all over the world. Individually or together, the brothers have visited eight countries and 40 states to entertain and inform audiences with their videos.

Over the years, Peterson included his parents, Dave and Marla, and his younger sister, Laura, in the videos. And now that Peterson and his brothers have married and started their own families, they have expanded the cast to include their wives and children as well.

Peterson performed along with several of his videos for the crowd. But the most popular one turned out to be the finale, the one about tractors stuck in the mud. Peterson said farmers love to see their peers bury a tractor in muck, and that was proved to be true by the audiences reaction. Set to the AC/DC song Thunderstruck, the video elicited several oohs and chuckles from the crowd.

For the video, Peterson and his brothers got a tractor stuck in the mud on purpose, which their father was not happy about, he admitted. But he equated the process of getting a tractor out of the mud to the challenges farmers face each day and how they should rely on friends for help.

We need to try and remember not to go through the tough times alone, he said.

Peterson also urged the audience to work to change the publics perception of agriculture to a positive one.

We can all work together to make a difference, he said.
Jack Doyle has become the second senior member of Downing Street staff to quit in a matter of hours.

The now-former director of communications at No 10 was previously a journalist, most recently for the Daily Mail where he was associate editor (politics) before his move to Downing Street in 2020.

Mr Doyle was at the Mail for 10 years, before which he worked for the Press Association as home affairs correspondent.

He started in Downing Street as press secretary before becoming deputy director of communications and finally bagging the top job.

Mr Doyle, a policemans son, had been thrust into the limelight in recent weeks amid allegations he was at two Covid restriction-busting gatherings which are now under investigation by police.

Jack Doyle worked in Downing Street (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

He became director of communications after the departure of James Slack  now the deputy editor-in-chief at The Sun  who has also been caught up in the partygate saga over a leaving do held for him in No 10 the night before the Duke of Edinburghs funeral, for which he has apologised.

It was reported Mr Doyle had offered the PM his resignation over the gatherings but that Mr Johnson had refused to accept it. Downing Street denied Mr Doyle offered to quit, and said that the Prime Minister had full confidence in him.

Mr Doyle was reported to have vetoed plans for the daily briefings held with Westminster journalists to be televised.

The sessions would have been fronted by the Prime Ministers former press secretary Allegra Stratton, who also resigned as part of the allegations of parties across No 10 and Whitehall.

Mr Doyle is reported to have told staff it was always his intention to step down after two years but his resignation comes as Mr Johnson is fighting to save his premiership.
Stock photo

The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio recently announced a request for proposals opportunity intended to address the social, economic, educational and health challenges faced by young people in Appalachian Ohio.

The request is part of a partnership with partnership with the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation of Nelsonville. The organizations are seeking proposals that support nonprofit and public organizations that are building resilience and increasing protective factors for youth in our region.

Funding available through the RFP will emphasize support for young people during out-of-school time to increase access to broader social support systems and resources. FAO and OHFN will support capacity-building as part of the overall request to help organizations best meet the needs of those they serve by expanding services, enhancing program quality and/or improving operational efficiencies.

Up to $380,000 is available through this funding opportunity, with grant awards anticipated to range from $5,000 to $30,000 per organization. Applications must be submitted by March 16, 2022. Proposals should reflect the resources needed to implement the project effectively and alignment with the intent of the RFP. Applicants are encouraged to include capacity building for their program or organization in their requests.

Funding decisions will be announced by April 15.

For an application: AppalachianOhio.org/youthresiliency.

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Foundation for Appalachian Ohio announces RFP opportunity
Enrollees will be able to get up to eight tests each month, the same number covered for privately insured Americans as part of a set of new requirements the Biden administration announced last month.

The new Medicare program will not begin until the early spring, the administration said. The surge in cases caused by the Omicron variant, already declining, may have waned considerably by then. Even so, the tests could help Americans in possible future surges, perhaps driven by different variants, and as people begin to congregate more frequently with fewer virus cases around.

The free tests covered by Medicare would go to some of the most vulnerable parts of the U.S. population. The vast majority of Medicare enrollees are 65 or older; others are younger people with disabilities.

Because new treatments for the virus must be given early in the course of infection to be effective, testing and identifying cases quickly is critical to their use.
HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Wolf Administration is urging Pennsylvania's Congressional Delegation to extend a waiver that aims at ensuring food security for school children.

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf's Administration sent a letter to the Delegation asking for an extension of the United State Department of Agriculture's nationwide waiver authority throughout the 2022-2023 school year, a release said.

Pennsylvanias kids are relying on us to ensure their food security, and thats why we need Congress to act now to allow USDA authority to extend school feeding waivers, said Governor Tom Wolf. The flexibilities these waivers provide assure consistent access to nutritious food, filling hungry bellies and relieving a stressor for Pennsylvania parents."

According to Feeding Pennsylvania, more than 1.5 million people in Pennsylvania, including more than 443,000 children, are at risk of hunger.

The Administration said Thursday the school system's feeding programs play a critical role in ensuring that all young people have the food they need to grow and thrive.

Congress authorized USDA to issue nationwide waivers to ensure that school feeding programs could adapt to the needs of the communities they serve due to struggles with food security that arose during the pandemic.

Pennsylvanias families face  and continue to face  so many challenges, but access to food should not be one of them, said First Lady Frances Wolf. The child nutrition waivers make sense, they work, and they help empower entire communities.

The waivers issued by USDA can serve a multitude of purposes. Examples include allowing flexibility for both schools and nonprofits as to where meals can be accessed and the opportunity to offer meals to young siblings of school aged children or a chance to provide continued access to afterschool meals and snacks, regardless of traditional school and activities being in session or not.

It is critical to meet the physical, mental, and emotional needs of learners so they can learn, grow, and achieve, and additional resources and support have never been more necessary, said Secretary of Education Dr. Noe Ortega. The extra flexibility these waivers can provide will help alleviate supply chain challenges, protect at-risk children, and ensure continuity of services to students, schools, and communities across the commonwealth.

Waivers for the 2021-22 school year are set to expire on June 30, 2022,

The USDA will not be able to provide waivers past this date without approval by Congress, the release said.

This waiver authority is critical to ensure Pennsylvanias school-aged children dont have to worry about where their next meal is coming from, said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. Food is a human right, and its critical fuel for children to thrive and succeed.

Schools and community feeding partners are already making plans for the summer and 2022-23 schoolyear. They need to know now if theyll have the opportunity to continue serving Pennsylvania children in the same manner or if service opportunities will be limited.

Families currently in need of support to meet their food needs are encouraged to take advantage of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). People can apply for SNAP online at www.compass.state.pa.us.
In early 2016, as Jeb Bush floundered, the Republican establishment began to throw its support behind a different politician from Florida who seemed as if he could defeat the upstart Donald Trump. Senator Marco Rubio was 44 and handsome, and had put together a somewhat impressive legislative record during his five years in office. National Review called Rubio a Republican dream and hedge fund managers were donating millions to his campaign. Trump led comfortably in the polls, but it was still early, as G.O.P. insiders reminded us, and they still hadnt put their thumbs fully on the scale. We all know how the story ends: Rubio wasnt able to mount any sort of credible challenge to Trump and withdrew after just a few months.

Today, we are hearing about yet another Florida politician in his early 40s  Gov. Ron DeSantis  who, according to many of those same establishment figures, will collect a vast majority of support from donors. And he is already the subject of plenty of positive media coverage. The headlines about DeSantis are eerily similar to those about Rubio in 2016: The Rise of Ron DeSantis, Why Never-Trumpers Should Bet on DeSantis Now and Looks Like Ron DeSantis Could Turn Into Trumps Personal Nightmare. If DeSantis runs for president, his job wont be so much to win the presidency on his own merits, but rather to stop Donald Trump.

How seriously should we take DeSantiss chances?

Trump holds sizable margins in pretty much every poll you can find, but some of the numbers are tightening. Last week, the polling firm Echelon Insights published a raft of data on the Florida governor. It found that Trumps lead over DeSantis among G.O.P. voters, which, according to its own poll, was 62 percent to 22 percent of respondents in October, had shrunk to 57 percent to 32 percent as of late January. Perhaps the most compelling bit of information Echelon found was that while 54 percent of Republicans thought Trump was a great president and should remain the leader of the Republican Party, 22 percent said Trump was a great president but it is time for the Republican Party to find a new leader and 18 percent said Trump was not a great president and the Republican Party would be better off without his influence. Which means that 40 percent of G.O.P. voters are at least open to the possibility of someone new.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference that includes Senator Marco Rubio Congressmen Brian Mast and Byron Donalds, DEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton and SFWMD Chairman Chauncey Goss at a stormwater treatment area in western Palm Beach County, Florida on January 31, 2022.

Another round of election rules from Republicans in the Florida Legislature stoked debate about voter suppression versus election integrity. And why didn't Gov. Ron DeSantis just condemn the neo-Nazis? Journalists Antonio Fins, John Kennedy and Zac Anderson discuss the week that was in Florida politics.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida Politics Podcast: GOP new voting laws, DeSantis neo-Nazi whiff
A member of Tibetan community protests in front of the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne, Switzerland (REUTERS)

Hundreds of Tibetan and Uyghur activists have marched on the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) a day before Beijing 2022 opens, accusing the Swiss-based organisation of complicity in atrocities committed against ethnic minorities in China.

Today here we are gathered, Tibetans from at least eight different countries in Europe, in front of the IOC building to protest against IOC awarding the Winter Olympics 2022 to the Beijing government, said Karma Choekyi, head of the Tibetan Community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

She said more than 150 Tibetans had self-immolated after the 2008 Beijing Summer Games because of much repression in Tibet.

So to award yet again the Winter Olympics 2022 to Beijing means the IOC has not taken (account) of gross human rights violations by the Chinese regime on the people of Tibet, east Turkistan (Xinjiang), southern Mongolia and even the fragile democracy in Hong Kong, she said at the protest in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Hours earlier, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that the Beijing Winter Olympics would be streamlined, safe and splendid, even as IOC President Thomas Bach decried boycott ghosts ... rearing their ugly heads again over human rights concerns.

The US, UK, and some other allied countries have staged diplomatic boycotts of the Games over those concerns.

In Lausanne, the marchers - many wrapped in the red, yellow and blue flag of Tibet and dressed in traditional robes - chanted and played drums, holding a minute of silence for their martrys before starting a peace march along Lake Geneva.

Their chants included Beijing Olympics, Genocide Games, Tibet is burning and Long live Dalai Lama.

They presented a petition to IOC security staff signed by the presidents of 10 Tibetan communities in Europe.

Migmar Dengo, a Tibetan who got Swiss asylum two decades ago, posed with a snowboard with the motto IOC is corrupted by China.

I love snowboarding and the Games but this time it is too painful with no justice, he said. We need freedom in Tibet.

Story continues

Rights groups have long criticised the IOC for awarding the Games to China, citing its treatment of Uyghurs and other Muslim minority groups in the western Xinjiang region, which the US has deemed genocide.

China denies allegations of human rights abuses and says it opposes the politicisation of sports.

China seized control of Tibet after its troops entered the region in 1950 in what it calls a peaceful liberation, ending serfdom in the region.

Tibetan protesters take part in a protest march at the International Olympic Committee (IOC) headquarters in Lausanne, 3 February 2022 (AFP via Getty Images)

Ethnic Tibetans make up more than 80 per cent of the population in the Tibet Autonomous Region, one of the most restricted areas in the country. Critics, led by exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, say Beijings rule amounts to cultural genocide.

Since Mr Xi came to power a decade ago, China had intensified its crackdown on Buddhist learning centres and Buddhist religious sites, a statement from Tibetan activists said, adding: China has committed and continues to commit cultural genocide in Tibet.

Fridays start of the Games will turn attention away from criticism over human rights, a spokesman for the organising committee said.

The so-called China human rights issue is a lie made up by people with ulterior motives, Zhao Weidong, spokesman for the Beijing Games, said on Thursday when asked if such criticism had undermined the Games.

I want to emphasise that the Olympics is a great spectacle for athletes and sports fans across the world. From the current situation, many countries and athletes have expressed their support for the Beijing Winter Olympics, he said.

Reuters
Texas political hopeful Jeff Younger with his sons James and Jude. (Courtesy of Jeff Younger)

Texas House Candidate Vows to Outlaw Child Sex Change Surgery

Amid ongoing controversy over the transitioning of gender dysphoric youth, Jeff Younger is taking a stand on how the state of Texas handles family law and gender reassignment surgeries.

His platform emerged after losing custody of his 9-year-old son, James, who is allegedly being socialized as a girl by his ex-wife Anne Georgulas, a pediatrician in Coppell, Texas.

James will be 10-years-old in May.

I havent seen him since 31 July, 2021, by court order, Younger added. I worry what he looks like now.

It should absolutely not be allowed to transition children in the state of Texas, Younger said. That needs to be illegal.

Gender reassignment surgeries can include orchiectomies, hysterectomies, vaginoplasty, phalloplasty, and mastectomies.

Jeff Younger with his sons James and Jude. (Courtesy of Jeff Younger)

Younger is campaigning to be elected to the Texas House of Representatives to represent District 63 for Flower Mound, Lewisville, and portions of Denton County.

The state has determined that it owns your child, and the state is going to do with the children whatever they want, and thats why Im running for office in House District 63, he said.

Part of my platform is to change how we deal with family law and to make significant changes to family law so that its very clear that parents are in control of their childrens lives even in divorce.

Children dont become wards of the state just because one parent wants a divorce.

If elected Younger, who would replace Tan Parker, said his priority will be introducing legislation that outlaws gender-altering surgery for children, which Texas state Senator Bob Hall proposed last year in the form of Senate Bill 1311.

Establishment Republicans had big problems with criminal penalties for sexually mutilating kids, he said.

Hall said he tried very hard in 2021 to get his proposed bill approved.

I had the bill, Hall told the Epoch Times. I carried the bill to stop the mutilation of kids under 18 years old. This is not a discrimination thing. This is protecting children because we know this gender dysphoria is something that does happen to kids.

They get confused. God doesnt make us all complete when were born. Its something that happens over time with mental and organ development. Its called puberty.

Gender dysphoria, according to the American Psychiatric Association, is a condition of distress created by an individual who identifies with the opposite biological sex.

As previously reported in the Epoch Times, separate studies found 88 per cent of boys and girls experiencing gender dysphoriawho had not yet undergone social transitioningreported when they were teens that it was no longer an issue and they accepted their biological gender.

When reached on her cell phone, Georgulas declined to comment.

People dont know that the family courts operate with no oversight from the higher courts, Younger said.

You cannot appeal interlocutory judgments in the court. So, when a judge does this like the judge took my kids away from me, you cant appeal.

Theres no oversight by a higher court to double-check these judges and that needs to change. We need to be able to appeal interlocutory judgments that affect children in family court.

An Aug. 3, 2021, court order shows that while Georgulas was granted most parental rights, neither parent may treat the child with hormonal suppression therapy, puberty blockers, or transgender reassignment surgery without both parents consent or court order.

But Younger claims that despite the order, Georgulas is skirting the edge of legality.

She covers James after his evening showers with transgender lotions that add estrogens to his body, Younger alleges.

She feeds him high estrogen foods. She dresses him in girls clothes. He goes to school as a girl. He uses the girls restroom.

Georgulas and the school faculty teach James that he really is a girl. He is one court order away from chemical castration.

Still, Im grateful that she hasnt been able to put him on puberty blockers or hormones.

Younger blames Dallas County Judge Mary Brown in 301st District Court.

She [Brown] took my children away from me last summer, precisely because Im talking about this publicly, Younger added. She said because Im telling people what theyre doing to my son that I cant see my children anymore.

Shes allowed my son to be socially transitioned. They call him by a fake girls name.

Brown declined to comment.
COLUMBIA, Md., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Blend360, an industry-leading provider of data science and CX solutions, has announced plans to scale its Data Science and Customer Experience business by opening a new delivery center in Denver, CO. The company plans to hire 100+ people in Denver this year, including a mixture of experienced professionals and recent graduates. Core offerings will include data science, data engineering, and business intelligence.

The Denver Delivery Center will continue Blend's geographic expansion and enable them to scale with the growing demand for analytics and technology services. In 2021, they opened their first global delivery center in Hyderabad, India, and acquired Engagement Factory, a digital transformation company in the EMEA region. Blend360 also achieved an exponential organic growth rate of over 150% YOY, adding over 20 new clients.

"I'm excited to grow our Solutions Delivery Team by tapping into the Denver talent pool. We evaluated several locations across the US, deciding on Denver as the location for our new Delivery Center, and are looking forward to growing the Center to 100+ people over the next 12 months," says Ozgur Dogan, President of Data Science and Customer Experience Solutions.

Additional investment in 2022 will include hiring a senior executive to lead growth and development in Denver, CO, assisted by talent acquisition specialists to meet their ambitious hiring goals. Bo Chipman, SVP, Data Science, will play a leading role in Blend360's expansion with a focus on maintaining Blend360's culture and standards of excellence. "Blend360 is excited to launch our Denver delivery center. We are making a big bet we can add 100 data science, data engineering, and business intelligence resources in 2022," says Bo. "It is an audacious plan, but we are energized by the challenge."

Blend360 is an industry-leading provider of data science and customer experience solutions, serving Fortune 1000 companies. Blend360 focuses on world-class people who help clients optimize business performance through data, technology, and analytics. Blend360 has consistently delivered high growth, making the Inc. 5000 list every year since being founded. They have over 400 employees with offices in NYC, MD, CO, CA, the Netherlands, and India.

SOURCE Blend360
Nearly three weeks after La Follette High School students reportedly beat a special-needs classmate so badly at the Southeast Side school that he could require surgery, police made an arrest in the case Wednesday and anticipate making another one.

Tayshon J. Ross, 17, of Madison, is tentatively charged with felony substantial battery in the Jan. 13 incident, according to police spokesperson Stephanie Fryer.

Police said last month that the 15-year-old victim told them a group of students was making fun of him before the fight and that school surveillance video of the incident shows the victim and another teen preparing to fight one another and several teens punching or attempting to punch the victim.

Police said teachers and administrators quickly broke up the fight, but not before the boys front teeth had been punched up into his gums, his mother, Heather Colbert, said.

Police on Jan. 14 said two teens were facing charges but later backed off a separate report that they had been arrested. Then on Jan. 19, Fryer said three teens would likely face charges in the case, including a substantial battery charge against a 17-year-old. Two others would likely be charged with being a party to a crime, she said then.

Earlier this week, Colbert said she last heard from police about the case nearly two weeks before, when a detective raised the possibility of placing the boys who attacked her son into a restorative justice program that would keep them out of the criminal justice system if they apologized and participated in programming aimed at remediating the harm theyd done.

She said she opposed that approach.

Im not backing down on that, she said Tuesday. I just dont feel theyre taking it seriously at all. This doesnt warrant a restorative justice plan.

She said she spoke again Wednesday with the detective, who told her two would be arrested in the case.

Colbert said her son had been arguing with a boy before he was punched, and that while she has not seen the video of the incident, she has been told by those who have that her son did not throw any punches.

I know my son is not perfect, but he didnt deserve what happened to him, she said.

Fryer said police planned to show her the video of the incident.

The school did not call police or emergency medical services in response to the attack, and Colbert has said she called police to file a report after she took her son to the emergency room. District spokesperson Tim LeMonds has said Colbert told the school she preferred to take her son to the hospital, as she was already on her way to the school and indicated that she would contact police. Colbert told the Wisconsin State Journal she would have preferred the school call 911.

This is the first fully in-person school year following the School Boards decision in June 2020 to remove police officers, known as school resource officers, from the four main high schools. That decision came in the wake of George Floyds murder and after years of protests at School Board meetings and other advocacy by the local far-left group Freedom Inc.

The board subsequently voted in February 2021 to adopt 16 recommendations from a district Safety and Security ad hoc committee, including one requiring debriefing sessions after every instance in which police are called to examine, among other things, what could have been done proactively to avoid involving law enforcement.

Colbert said her son had been bullied for months before the attack and that she had approached the district as far back as November about moving her child to another school. She said he is on the autism spectrum and faces a number of mental and emotional health struggles. LeMonds, however, said last month that the districts first record of such a request was Jan. 13, hours before the fight.

Disciplinary action

LeMonds on Tuesday declined to comment on any disciplinary action taken against the students involved in the La Follette incident, and in the past has cited student privacy laws for withholding such information. Last month he said the district is following the Behavior Education Plan with all students involved to determine consequences and restorative options.

That plan says students who commit any physical aggression that results in serious injury, such as a broken bone or one requiring hospitalization, can be expelled.

LeMonds cautioned Tuesday against assuming that the video, which the State Journal has not seen, shows ... cause for there to be charges when you do not know that to be true or not.

Colbert said her son will lose a tooth due to the incident and that the bone near the tooth was totally destroyed. She said its not clear yet whether it might heal on its own or will need surgery to reconstruct.

Other incidents

In early December, police arrested 18-year-old Marquan Webb at La Follette for allegedly having a stolen loaded gun. Police had received an anonymous tip that day and after La Follettes interim principal, Mathew Thompson, attempted to confront Webb in a classroom, Webb pushed past Thompson and had to be taken to the ground and restrained by three police officers, police said.

Police have also responded to fights inside and outside East High School this school year, including one in which police deployed pepper spray to break it up.

The School Board is now mulling the creation of another committee to address school safety.
Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.), joined by members of the House Freedom Caucus, speaks at a news conference on the infrastructure bill outside the Capitol Building in Washington, on Aug. 23, 2021. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Most Debased Demonstrations of Evil: Bill Aims to End CCPs Persecution of Falun Gong

Communist Chinas decades-long persecution of faith group Falun Gong is among the most debased demonstrations of evil, and it must end, according to Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.).

Within the unsurpassed cruelty of Chinas Communist regime, the treatment of Falun Gong practitioners must rank among the worst, most debased demonstrations of evil to ever be coordinated by a government against a particular group of people, Perry told The Epoch Times in an email.

This particularly shocking lack of regard for the human person must be confronted. It must end, he added.

In mid-December, Perry introduced the Falun Gong Protection Act (H.R.6319) in a bid to impose sanctions on Chinese Communist Party (CCP) officials who are complicit in the persecution of the spiritual group. If passed, the bill would mark the first legislative measure in the United States to hold human rights abusers accountable.

The congressman described the bill as vital toward standing up for the intrinsic worth and dignity of all Falun Gong practitioners being persecuted by the Chinese Communist Party.

Released before the Beijing Winter Olympics, the legislation also serves to shine a light on the callousness and cruelty of the authoritarian regime and help stop Beijing from exporting its abuses to the rest of the world, Perry said.

Unimaginably Horrific

One of the largest spiritual communities in China, the meditation discipline Falun Gong has been subject to a brutal campaign by the atheist communist regime aimed at eradicating the practice and its adherents.

Since 1999, millions of adherents have been thrown into labor camps or other detention facilities, and hundreds of thousands suffered torture, according to estimates from Falun Dafa Information Center.

Detained adherents have also been victims of the state-sanctioned forced organ harvesting, described by Perry as an unimaginably horrific and barbaric act.

China has been a top destination for transplant tourists owing to hospitals ability to procure organs much faster than developed countries with established organ donation systems. Vital organs can be sourced in days in Chinaeven when patients typically expect months or years of waiting elsewhere. The Epoch Times previously reported on a 24-year-old patient who received donor matches for four hearts in 10 days in 2020.

Up to three hundred supporters of the practice of Falun Dafa march through the city center of Vienna, Austria to protest against the importing of human organs from China to Austria, on Oct. 1, 2018. (Joe Klamar/AFP via Getty Images)

Now you wonder how they can be? Is it because they have such a huge population? Perry said on The Epoch Times affiliate NTDs Capitol Report program. But see, theres an unlimited supply.

For this supply to be maintained, an uncountable number of prisoners of conscienceprimarily imprisoned Falun Gong practitionershave been killed alive for their organs, an independent peoples tribunal determined in 2019.

Its just unimaginable, Perry wrote in an email, noting that in some cases, the victims were not sedated during the forced organ removal.

Concrete Action

Concerns about forced organ harvesting, which first surfaced in 2006 when several whistleblowers approached The Epoch Times providing accounts of the practice, have been growing louder in recent years.

Both the U.S. Congress and the European Parliament have adopted resolutions opposing the practice, so has a growing list of other countries, most recently Belgium and Austria. Over a dozen U.S. counties and states have passed resolutions in a bid to curb organ tourism to China.

But Perry wants more than just statements.

The perpetrators need to be brought to account, and training and cooperation with Chinese transplant doctors should cease, he said.

The lawmaker pointed to the silence on this issue by international rights bodies. The United Nations problematic Human Rights Council has yet to formally make a stance on the treatment of Falun Gong, he said, even though a dozen experts and special rapporteurs released a statement last June saying they were extremely alarmed.

Falun Gong practitioners take part in a parade marking the 22nd anniversary of the start of the Chinese regimes persecution of Falun Gong, in Washington on July 16, 2021. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

The Chinese regime has largely evaded scrutiny over its campaign by muzzling critical voices, leaving only what the Communist Party wants you to see, Perry said.

This is daily warfare for the Communist Party of China against the West, he added.

Pressed on its human rights abuses, the regimes responses have typically alternated between retaliatory sanctions, threats, and propaganda talking points. Last May, Beijing blacklisted a former U.S. religious freedom official following the State Departments move to sanction a former Chinese security chief who oversaw the persecution of Falun Gong.

Defending the International Order

The persecution of Falun Gong has not lessened ahead of the impending Beijing Olympics.

On Jan. 14, a Beijing court sentenced 11 Falun Gong practitioners to up to eight years in prison, citing the materials they provided to The Epoch Times to shed light on the regimes pandemic response in early 2020.

Beijings heavy-handed campaign against Falun Gong fits into its broader pattern of suppression, said Rep. Mary Miller (R-Ill.), a co-sponsor of the bill.

The Chinese Communist Party persecutes anyone who does not worship the Communist Party and tyrannical government as the supreme power in their life, she told The Epoch Times in an email.

Rep. Mary Miller (R-Ill.) speaks at a press conference on vaccine mandates for businesses with House Republicans on Capitol Hill in Washington, on Nov. 18, 2021. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

The international community should not be embracing Chinas oppressive government while China refuses an investigation into the origins of the Wuhan coronavirus and imprisons Christian and minority communities like the Uyghurs and Falun Gong.

So far the bill has four co-sponsors, all from the Republican side. Perry said that he has talked to the Democratic lawmakers and tried to add accountability measures about organ harvesting into the America COMPETES Act, a sweeping House bill originally intended to promote U.S. competitiveness with China, but his Democratic colleagues wouldnt even allow the amendment to be heard.

Do we stand with humanity? he said in the NTD interview. This should be an easy one in a divided nation where theres not a lot of things we agree on. Certainly, I cant imagine we dont agree on that.

Perry sees standing up for Chinas persecuted as more than doing a right and decent thing.

Its about defending the international order that the regime intends to do away with  one that is completely incompatible with Chinas abuses, he wrote in the email.

The CCPs alternative for a broadly accepted international order is a might makes right system in which anything may be justifiedeven egregious violations of human dignityif the perpetrator is strong enough to physically stamp out any dissent, he said. This is why we must continue to confront the PRCs [Peoples Republic of China] human rights abuses and isolate them on the world stage wherever we can.

What affects Chinas persecuted groups today could affect other people around the world tomorrowand we cannot let that happen, Perry added.
On a snowy February week, it might seem too far away to think of green grass, blue skies and metal music rocking an outdoor venue.

But the music lineup has just been announced for the Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival, set for July 15-17 at the Ohio State Reformatory.

After debuting a massive revamp of the festival grounds in 2021, Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival officials announced Thursday that they aim to make the 2022 event even bigger than last year's fest that set an attendance record of 75,000. That festival featured heavy metal heroes Slipknot, Rob Zombie and Mudvayne.

INKcarceration heats up after a year hiatus Friday afternoon at the Ohio State Reformatory in this News Journal 2021 file photo.

This year's headliners will include rock and metal giants Korn, Disturbed, Breaking Benjamin and Evanescence, with the weekend also offering performances from Lamb of God, Papa Roach, Seether, Falling in Reverse, Three Days Grace, I Prevail, Black Label Society, Theory of a Deadman, Black Veil Brides, Jelly Roll and many more, organizers said in the news release.

Held at the historic Ohio State Reformatory, along Ohio 545 on the city's northeast side, the event will draw music fans from across the country for three days of nonstop music, tattooing, haunted attractions and more, according to Thursday's announcement.

Korn is one of the headline acts scheduled to perform at Inkcarceration 2022, set for the weekend of July 15-17.

Lee Tasseff, president of Destination Mansfield, the local Richland County convention and visitors bureau, said, "We're excited they're coming back and we expect it should be bigger than last year. Every year they improve and this year will be no different. The operation will be more refined than last year."

Tasseff said Inkcarceration organizers were smart last year, declaring early despite the pandemic that the event was being held restrictions for COVID-19, requiring concertgoers to have proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. "They were one of the top-drawing concert venues in the country," he added.

Tasseff said his office worked the event, running information services during the weekend.

Story continues

"It was a lot of fun," he said.

Support local journalism. Subscribe to the News Journal today and get a special offer of 3 months for just $3 at offers.mansfieldnewsjournal.com.

Fans stayed in hotel rooms within a 60-mile radius of Mansfield, he said, including Bucyrus and Akron.

"It is a true testament of how valuable OSR is to the community," he said. "It really is. The value it has to the local economy and how it gets Mansfield noticed across the world is incredible," he said.

"Things like this help put us on the map and in conversations nationally. Word-of-mouth is always invaluable," he added.

Mansfield: Mansfield police detective retires, credits others for their service

OSR also continues to improve its infrastructure.

"Before summer the tourist attraction will have installed its third, handicapped accessible elevator," Tasseff said.

The Shawshank Redemption was filmed at OSR in 1993 and brought Hollywood stars Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins to the city. The prison-turned museum is open year-round for tours and events.

The Ohio State Reformatory, was built between 1886 and 1910 and remained in operation until 1990, when a U.S. Federal Court ruling ordered the facility to be closed. The prison itself was preserved and local community leaders Dan Seckel and the late Bill McCarrick and Virginia Imhoff worked to save the administration building, Central Guard Room and cell block wings before the state demolished all the other outbuildings at the prison.

Single-day and weekend passes for Inkcarceration 2022 are on sale now at Inkcarceration.com starting at $164.99 plus fees. Fans can secure passes for a $22 deposit now through March 15.

lwhitmir@gannett.com

419-521-7223

Twitter: @LWhitmir

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Inkarceration 2022: Korn, Disturbed among festival headliners
A combined effort from two fire fighting agencies and more than two dozen firefighters was needed to quell a house fire that ignited near Green River Tuesday morning, resulting in a 34-year-old woman being severely injured from burns.

A house fire at 1600 Highway 374 was reported at 4:29 a.m. Tuesday morning, west of Green River. A release from the Sweetwater County Sheriff's Office states a driver saw the fire from Highway 374 and helped rescue the occupants before the first fire engine arrived. According to Assistant Green River Fire Department Chief Bill Robinson, three trucks from the GRFD and one from Fire District No. 1 responded to the fire, with a total of 25 firefighters involved. Robinson said it took fire crews about two and a half hours to bring the fire under control.

"We worked on hot spots after that," Robinson said.

Robinson said two people were injured in the fire as a 34-year-old woman received severe burns from the fire and was flown to Salt Lake City due to her injuries. According to a release by the Sweetwater County Sheriff's Office, a four-year-old child received minor burns from the fire and two other children were able to escape the home without injury. Two dogs were killed in the blaze.

Robinson said the cause of the fire is under investigation. Later information pointed to an area where a hoverboard was kept as the origin of the fire.
A man has lost a fight against extradition from England to Ireland after being accused of raping a woman 21 years ago.

Lawyers representing the man mounted a High Court challenge after a judge at Westminster Magistrates Court had ruled that he should be extradited.

They said the man had mental and physical heath difficulties and argued that extradition would be oppressive and unfair.

But a judge dismissed the mans challenge today (Wednesday February 2).

Mr Justice Chamberlain had considered the case at a High Court hearing in London earlier this month.

Lawyers representing the Irish state had said the mans appeal should be dismissed.

The judge heard that the man had been accused of committing rape in Waterford in 2001 and prosecutors wanted him to appear in court in Ireland.

He was told the man, who lives in supported accommodation in Essex, had been accused of rape after police reviewed the case.

Mr Justice Chamberlain said the woman could not be identified in media reports of the case.
One person died Thursday in a fire that also killed nine horses in a horse barn near 232nd Street and Dutch Hall Road north of Bennington.

Crews from 14 fire departments in four counties responded to the fire, including firefighters from Waterloo, Valley, Bennington, Arlington and Omaha.

The fire was reported about 6:10 a.m. at Heartland Farms at 23203 Dutch Hall Road. One firefighter suffered burns while battling the blaze, said Waterloo Fire Chief Travis Harlow. The firefighter was taken to Creighton University Medical Center-Bergan Mercy in serious condition. In a press release, the Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency said the firefighter was treated and later released.

The agency said the victim's identity is being withheld pending the identification and notification of next of kin. The agency added that the Douglas County Attorney's Office has ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

Investigators have determined that the fire was accidental, and the investigation is ongoing, the agency said.

Firefighters had to work in shifts because of the cold conditions, Harlow said. The water source was 6 miles away, which complicated fire crews work. Ice from the water sprayed on the building made footing treacherous.

Ten horses were removed from the barn and are being treated for serious injuries, the agency said. Horses were being cared for by people who live at a nearby farm, Harlow said.

Harlow estimated that the barn was 35,000 to 40,000 square feet. Three apartments and an office were in the building, he said.

Heartland Farms, owned by Blair and Karen Cudmore, breeds, sells and trains horses. Blair Cudmore, reached by phone Thursday, said he was returning home from California.

Cudmore said the indoor arena in the building is roughly the size of a football field.

Fire crews were still cleaning up after 2:30 p.m. Harlow said that crews will likely come back to check for hot spots but that the scene was being turned over to the Douglas County Sheriffs Office and the Fire Marshal Agency.
SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Invitae Corporation ( NYSE: NVTA), a leading medical genetics company, today announced that members of its management team will participate in virtual fireside chats at the following investor conferences:

SVB Leerink 11 th Annual Global Healthcare Conference on Thursday, February 17, 2022 , at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time .

on , at . Cowen 42nd Annual Health Care Conference on Monday, March 7, 2022 , at 11:10am Eastern Time .

A live webcast of each fireside chat may be accessed by visiting the investors section of the company website at ir.invitae.com. Replays of the webcasts will be available shortly after the conclusion of each fireside chat.

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
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana on Thursday said a chargesheet in connection with an incident in which a woman was allegedly abducted, gang-raped and paraded by a group of people here will be filed in minimum possible time and the court will be urged to conduct a speedy trial.

Asthana held a candid interaction with public through Twitter in a question-answer session.

Also Read | '127 Tigers Died in 2021', Reveals MoS for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ashwini Kumar Choubey.

The 20-year-old victim was allegedly abducted, gang-raped and paraded by the accused on the streets of Kasturba Nagar with her hair chopped, face blackened and a shoe garland around her neck on January 26.

Asthana said police reached the spot in less than three minutes of receiving the call about the incident.

Also Read | Rahul Gandhi Got Real Pulse of India, Says Indian Union Muslim League Member ET Mohammad Basheer.

"All the accused allegedly involved in the crime have been arrested and all possible legal help is being provided to the victim. The chargesheet will be filed in minimum possible time while (we are) trying for a speedy and fast track trial in the court," he stressed.

Asthana said the force is sensitive towards crime against women and other weaker sections of the society, including children and senior citizens. Pursuing proactive policing, Delhi Police responds promptly and sensitively to such crimes, he said.

On the hesitation of women while approaching police, Asthana mentioned that Delhi Police has set up "Pink Booths" where women officers are deployed so that women can freely interact with them and share their concerns and grievances.

"Delhi Police is in process to install such booths in every district, so that women do not feel hesitant in going to police stations," he said.

The top cop also mentioned about several women-centric initiatives taken by the force like sashakti, a self-defence programme for girls and women, and said that at present, six women DCPs and a dozen women inspectors have been posted as district heads and station house officers in the city.

When asked on how to deal in case of police harassment, Asthana said that there is a well-oiled mechanism to deal with the complaints of police harassment.

He also suggested complainants to use the ICMS (Integrated Complaints Monitoring System) portal of Delhi Police to lodge their grievances hassle-free.

Asthana further said in the next six months, more than 10,000 CCTVs will be integrated at Central Command Room under Safe City Project' of the Union home ministry.

The officer informed that police station-wise hotspots have been identified in the city to catch those who are involved in drug trafficking.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Vice President Kamala Harris said Wednesday that it was Congress's fault President Biden could not fulfill his promise on immigration reform.

In an interview with Noticias Telemundo, Biden's 'root causes' immigration czar was asked: 'Elections are in a couple months' time. I'm sure you are aware the border is going to be an issue, also President Biden promised immigration reform he hasn't been able to deliver. Why would you say Latinos should vote for the Democrats this November?'

Harris sidestepped the question, instead saying that 'Congress is not acting' on immigration.

'The first piece of legislation that was sent to congress was immigration reform,' Harris said.

Biden's sweeping day-one immigration plan would have legalized more than 11 million undocumented immigrants currently living in the U.S. It would have also removed barriers to family-based migration, such as lengthy visa backlogs and employment-based green card requirements, and had little shot of ever getting the 10 Republican votes needed in the Senate to pass.

'It was our first initiative to say we must have a pathway to citizenship. The problem is that Congress is not acting,' Harris continued.

'The first piece of legislation that was sent to congress was immigration reform,' Harris said

Biden's sweeping day-one immigration plan would have legalized more than 11 million undocumented immigrants

In fiscal year 2021, encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border reached an all-time high of 1.6 million

'The way our democracy works is you need a majority and sometimes in the Senate you need 60 of the 100 to actually act on certain kinds of initiatives. We have to agree first of all this is an essential issue about what is right, what is fair, what is good for the economy in the U.S.'

'We must pass a pathway to citizenship,' Harris continued. 'This should not be partisan. We should not allow Republicans or Democrats if they do stand in the way of it to get away with this as a partisan issue.'

In fiscal year 2021, encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border reached an all-time high of 1.6 million.

The Biden administration, believing that the matter can be solved by injecting funds into the economy in Latin America, focused on addressing the root causes of migration.

'I believe very strongly that most people do not want to leave home, they dont want to leave the place where they grew up, where they go to worship, where their grandparents are. When people leave home, it is usually for one of two reasons: either they flee from danger or they just can't stay and take care of the basic needs of their families,' Harris said.

Since being named as the point person on the migrant crisis in March, Harris has visited the southern border just once, last June, when she spent a few hours in El Paso, Texas, before jetting off to her $5million Los Angeles mansion.

Last week she went to Honduras for the inauguration of new socialist Honduran President Xiomara Castro.

The trip is the vice president's second to the Northern Triangle in her role as point person migration's root causes, but she has avoided a visit the U.S.-Mexico border amid a record surge in border crossings. Customs and Border Protection officials arrested 178,000 migrants last month, a record high from December, but still below the peak in July of 213,000.

The U.S. is working to build bonds with the new president in hopes she will steer the nation in a new direction, resisting the corruption and cartel money that swayed leaders of the past.

The Biden administration sees investment as the way out of poverty for people in Northern Triangle countries.

Harris' call to action last year led private companies to commit to investing $1.2 billion in the region, but experts say the plan could fall through if businesses fear politicians will instead pocket the cash.

In April, Harris announced the U.S. was offering $310 million in emergency aid to the Northern Triangle, including $255 million to meet 'immediate and urgent humanitarian needs.'

Some experts believe that foreign aid can actually increases cases of migration.
NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brian Robinson's campaign committee, Common Sense Policies NYC for Brian Robinson, announced his Congressional endorsement by Victoria Weil, President of Tribeca's Bogardus Plaza, for the Congressional seat currently held by Jerry Nadler in NY's 10th District. "As a community organizer for almost 15 years, I've interacted with all sorts of people: elected officials, business owners, the community board and hundreds of residents," said Weil. "Brian is unique in that he expressed interest in helping out with our local pedestrian plaza and then jumped right in with no additional prodding. He has shooed away illegal skateboarders, wound the clock and now wants to help with the plaza maintenance. Brian is enthusiastic, earnest, and, if he believes in something, he pursues it relentlessly without being overbearing. I am thrilled that he's volunteering for the Friends of Bogardus Plaza and look forward to getting him on the Board of Directors. I am therefore happy to announce that Brian has my full endorsement for his candidacy, and I look forward to what he will continue to do for our community."

Weil has been with the non-profit organization Friends of Bogardus Plaza since 2006, formerly acting as its organizer, event planner, and fundraiser. She was initiated as the president in 2010, when she had played an instrumental part in the transformation of the plaza. "I am excited and honored to receive the support of such an integral member of our community," said Robinson. "Bogardus Plaza is a landmark of the district, one that highlights our history. I look forward to being a part of its preservation and creating an open safe space for the community."

Brian Robinson is a proud Jewish American father, husband, and man of his community. His passion for building a greater quality of life for the people around him led to founding his own consumer advocacy company. Started in his apartment over a decade ago, the company rapidly expanded to champion debtor rights for both small businesses and individuals alike.

Brian showed his prowess as leader and mediator at an early age. He became a mentor in his high school's Peer-to-Peer program, where he helped incoming freshmen adapt to their new environment. This sparked a passion for community service, and he started to also mentor students entering special education classes. He went on to volunteer at an inner-city Orleans Parish middle school, where he tutored vulnerable youths in the basic sciences.

Brian's love for his community led him to then explore an interest in politics at Tulane University. He combined this newfound interest with his love for theory and dialogue and graduated with a Bachelor's in Political Philosophy. He authored the book Adderall Blues, based on his own experiences with ADD, to emphasize the importance of mental health and a system that supports intelligences of all types. The book became a finalist for the 2017 American Book Fest Best Book Award. Brian has been a guest lecturer on the topic since, recently presenting at the Manhattan Adult ADD Support Group, where his presentation broke the record number of attendees.

Still true to his community roots, Brian continues to volunteer for Bogardus Plaza. His platform focus is public safety, helping small businesses, and respectful rhetoric. He spends the rest of his time in Lower Manhattan, where he lives with his loving wife Lindsey and their beautiful 4-year-old daughter. Visit https://www.votebriannyc.com. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Campaign Manager: Jin Choi Vote Brian NYC (917)-971-1004 jin.choi@votebriannyc.com

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Greg Sukiennik has worked at all three Vermont News & Media newspapers and was their managing editor from 2017-19. He previously worked for ESPN.com, for the AP in Boston, and at The Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield, Mass.
This editorial appears in the February 4, 2022 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

EDITORIAL

War with Russia?

The Dignity of Man

Lies in Your Hands

[Print version of this editorial]

Jan. 26The Russian Federation continues to insist that the United States and NATO commit to satisfying Russias need for assurances that its national security requirements will be respected. But the responses this weekdelivered officially by the U.S. and NATOfall far short of the mark. While offering room for negotiation on secondary matters, the U.S. and NATO have given no positive response on Russias core security demands.

Russia, which is moving forward with military exercises in Belarus and the Arctic, and organizing training drills using its nuclear forces, has repeatedly made clear that failure to respond will force the use of military or military-technical measures. Will those measures include the forward deployment of hypersonic nuclear missiles? Placing short-range nuclear missiles in Kaliningrad? The U.S. maintains some 200 nuclear gravity bombs in Europe, through joint nuclear missions. If Russia moves to bring similar pressure to bear on the United States, how small will the window of decision for responding become to a real (or perceived) nuclear attack?

You and I cant count on U.S. politicians, British imperialists, or NATO commanders to get this rightto avoid a situation which, whether through calculation or accident, could rapidly escalate to an unsurvivable nuclear exchange that would kill hundreds of millions of human beings within an hour and devastate civilization globally, perhaps permanently.

Neither can the NATO/Anglo-American maniacs attempting to force Russia and China into submission count on the acquiescence of their supposed partners and instruments. U.S. Secretary of State Blinken claims that NATO is unified, that there is no daylight between the views of the U.S. and other NATO countries. But he is wrong. Those intent on crushing Russia fret that a single NATO country could destroy the consensus on which its decisions must be made. Will Croatia stand firm? Will Bulgaria? Will Hungary dutifully play its suicidal role? Will Germany, after its 1941-1945 attack on the Soviet Union, truly set up another war against Russia? Will diplomats, politicians, generals, and thinkers break ranks?

This is the unanswered question of the moment.

As Russian diplomats are kicked out of Washington, D.C., as American diplomats reportedly plan to leave Beijing, as the media drumbeat for war intensifies, and as supporters of peace are cast as traitorsas weapons fly into Ukraine, as new sanctions are mulledas calls for censorship growwill you stand up for the dignity of the human species, and for your own life as well? Will you overthrow the hideous Malthusian dogma that says we are too numerous, and the false culture that says we are animals? Will we be here to marvel at the shocking observations the James Webb Space Telescope will soon be transmitting back to Earth?

A crisis of this magnitudean absolute branching point in historydemands great things of us. The LaRouche movement, headed by Helga Zepp-LaRouche, has warned of the magnitude of the crisis, to which increasing numbers are awakening, and has committed itself to catalyzing the needed new paradigm on this planet.

In his poem The Artists, Friedrich Schillerthe namesake of the Schiller Instituteexpressed the awesome responsibility that forces itself upon each of us today.

The dignity of man into your hands is given,

Protector be!

It sinks with you! With you it is arisen!

Can the future count on you?
KYIV, Ukraine  President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey agreed on Thursday to expand supplies of one of the Ukrainian Armys most sophisticated weapons, a long-range, Turkish-made armed drone whose use in combat for the first time in Ukraine last fall infuriated Russian officials.

Mr. Erdogans decision to provide weapons and diplomatically back Ukraine was a public rebuke to Moscow and another complicating factor in the mix of cooperation and conflict between Turkey and Russia, historical rivals for supremacy in the region around the Black Sea.

The promise of more arms for Ukraine, especially an offensive weapon like the Turkish drone, is an extremely sensitive issue for Moscow, which claims that its security is threatened and that it has no choice but to mass troops on the Ukrainian border. The Ukrainians, while welcoming diplomatic support, have said that what they primarily need are more weapons to deter any attack.
READING, Pa.  The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) had an opportunity Thursday morning to report to the Berks County Commissioners on the role it has been playing on economic development.

The GRCA receives an allocation of $500,000 from the county budget as part of its contract to work in collaboration with the county.

Last December, the commissioners requested that GRCA make an in-person presentation in early 2022 after they criticized the lack of a public report in 2021.

The commissioners later apologized , recognizing that that they spoke in error, as the GRCA had filed all the necessary reports as to how the countys allocation of money was being impactful to economic development in the county.

GRCA president and CEO Jim Gerlach thanked the commissioners for their support.

We work well with you and want to continue that partnership well in the future, in addition to the great support the county provides to us, Gerlach said. GRCA is both publicly and privately funded and certainly with the county support, we would not be able to do what were doing. Weve done a lot of work to try to advance the ball economically here in Berks County and were excited knowing about the work that we did, but also the work that will be coming this year as well.

Aaron Gantz, senior director of economic development for GRCA, offered an overview on some of the 2021 economic development highlights in Berks County on

Alvernia Universitys opening of its CollegeTowne in downtown Reading and the opening of the Drexel University College of Medicine in Wyomissing.

Amtrak revealed its vision for passenger rail service between Reading and New York City.

The 2020 Census revealed that the city of Reading is the 4 th largest city in the state of Pennsylvania

UGI opened a $37 million training center in Bern Township

Penn National Gaming opened its new. Hollywood Casino in Morgantown

The Building Berks Awards celebrated Berks County construction, with 25 nominated projects, representing over $123 million of total investment in the county, with nearly 2,000 construction jobs and over 700 jobs being created or retained as they related to the projects. The projects represented over 2.2 million in total square-footage.

We compiled and presented a mid-year state of the economy, which featured the newly-released census data and workforce cost of living data, Gantz said. We anticipate producing this on an annual basis.

The 2021 report will serve as a baseline for annual comparison and GRCA will continue to present relevant data as it becomes available on a quarter-to-quarter basis.

In looking at job data since Feb. 1, 2021, Gantz said there were over 62,000 job postings in Berks County, with the largest number of job openings being in the health care industry.

Gantz explained that the GRCA takes data and tries to tell a story, turning it into infographics to create digestible information for companies that are considering relocating to the area.

The pandemic has reiterated that workforce and talent is a precious asset, and we want Berks County to be the location of choice for people to live, work, learn, play and grow in our community, she said.

We work to position our community for new companies and for the growth of existing Berks County companies, Gantz continued. In collaboration with the county of Berks, in many cases, we worked with over 134 companies in (various) industries. Advanced manufacturing sits at 34%. Its one of the most stable industries and, as such, the GRCA has facilitated the Next Gen industry partnership, which expanded in 2021 to include 156 companies

Gantz said GRCA continues to maintain a data base of over 500 commercial and industrial properties.

As of this week, there are approximately 61 properties available, and that's the lowest I've seen that number in sometime due to the tightening of available sites in the market, Gantz said.

Gantz said in 2022 the GRCA will continue to work with start-ups and entrepreneurs, Main Street communities and any of the municipalities which are interested in taking on economic and development projects.

Commissioner Christian Y. Leinbach noted that the GRCA has partnered with the county on numerous economic development projects, creating a wide array of opportunities.

In other business, the commissioners voted to hire Paige Riegner as director of election services, effective Feb. 22, at an annual salary of $90,000.

The position has been vacant since Ronald Rutkowski resigned last fall, only weeks before the general election.

Riegner is currently the chief of staff for State Representative Ryan Mackenzie.

All three commissioners interviewed her, and we dealt specifically with the issue of this being a nonpartisan role, Leinbach said. With her experience with the caucus and legislature in Harrisburg, were very excited about bringing her onboard. Shes fully committed to run this office in a nonpartisan, transparent and effective fashion.
Restricting Energy Production in Alaska Threatens the Environment and US National Security: Gov. Mike Dunleavy

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy said the Biden administrations energy policies are putting the United States at an economic disadvantage, threatening the environment and U.S. national security.

But really, when you get down to national security, nobodys been able to tell me how relying on the Russians or the Saudis helped us with our national security. It makes no sense at all, Dunleavy told Capitol Reports Steve Lance during a recent interview after attending the White House governors meeting.

Were an energy giant here in America, here in Alaska. We should take advantage of that. We should make sure that were secure with our energy so we dont have to rely on others. You see whats happening now in Europe with this UkraineRussia issue, and theres no reason to put Americaits such a disadvantage, it makes no sense at all, continued Dunleavy.

Dunleavy is referring to the fact that the European Union depends on Russia for around a third of its gas supplies, and with the current Russian threat to Ukraine, Europe faces losing that energy supply over the Ukraine conflict.

We are concerned about the energy situation in Europe because it demonstrates the vulnerability of being too dependent on one supplier of natural gas and thats the reason why NATO allies agree that we need to work and focus on diversification of supplies, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said.

Dunleavy is concerned that the Biden administrations energy policies will make America more dependent and less safe since President Joe Biden in January 2021 canceled the Keystone XL pipeline and suspended drilling leases in Alaskas Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in June 2021, making the United States more dependent on Russia and Saudi Arabia for oil and gas.

The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska in an undated photo. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/Getty Images)

In May 2021, the Biden administration waived the sanctions that the Trump administration put in place against the Russian Nord Stream 2 Pipeline.

Dunleavy said relying on our adversaries for U.S. energy needs makes no sense from any perspective, but particularly because getting oil and gas from foreign countries contributes more to global greenhouse gases.

I dont know why theyre doing it. Because just looking at it from a jobs perspective makes no sense, [from] protecting the environment, makes no sense. We do it better in Alaska in protecting the environment than any other place on the planet. Yet they want to ship this over to a place like Russia or South America or Africa where there are no environmental regulations.

The Biden administrations Bureau of Land Management (BLM) signaled on Jan. 10 that it plans to close millions of acres in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A) that has been available for responsible resource development.

This request for additional stay and accompanying information makes clear the Federal government intends another unwarranted hit to Alaska and the nation, Dunleavy wrote in a statement on Jan. 11, in response to BLMs decision.

This is another sign of the federal government turning its back on Alaska and hampering domestic energy production. The U.S. Department of Interior is putting the nation in a situation where we have to rely on foreign oil countries at a time for growing prices and concern for American consumers, Dunleavy continued in the statement.

Dunleavy said BLMs decision overlooked the needs and input of the native peoples living in that area. He criticized the Biden administration for not allowing his states resources from being fully developed to help his residents and the nations energy needs.

Besides having major oil and gas, Dunleavy told NTD, We have the largest national forest in the country, we have one-seventh of the countrys timber, we have most of the rare earths and elements, most of our strategic metalsall of these resources can be brought to play, to bear, on helping the United States in its national security, also providing jobs, lowering the cost of energy.

Masooma Haq Follow Masooma Haq began reporting for The Epoch Times from Pakistan in 2008. She currently covers a variety of topics including U.S. government, culture, and entertainment.
South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg on Thursday insisted he had done nothing wrong in using his position over the state's Division of Criminal Investigation to ask about what out-of-state investigators might find looking into his 2020 fatal car crash in North Dakota.

The Republican attorney general is facing a House impeachment probe as lawmakers investigate his conduct surrounding the September 2020 crash. Ravnsborg struck and killed 55-year-old Joseph Boever, who was walking near a rural highway.

Investigators last month told lawmakers that Ravnsborg, while under investigation, asked staff at the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation about the possibility of taking a polygraph test and what could be found in a forensic exam of his phones.

Ravnsborg spoke to reporters for the first time Thursday since lawmakers began their review and said his inquiries with the Division of Criminal Investigation, which had been recused from investigating the crash, were an appropriate use of his position.

Investigators said they doubted Jason Ravnsborg's insistence, both in public and in law enforcement interviews, that he thought he had hit a deer in the night of a fatal crash in 2020

Fifty-five-year-old Joseph Boever was struck by the AG near the town of Highmore in September 2020

South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg's car after the crash

'So I know exactly where I turn around and saw him,' South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg, 45, said during a recorded September 30 interview with investigators, before quickly correcting himself: 'I didn't see him. I did not see him'

'I was just asking, inquiring factual information about how processes work and I did so on other occasions all the time,' he told The Associated Press.

Ravnsborg initially reported the crash as a collision with an animal and has maintained he did not realize he killed Boever until he returned to the scene the next day and discovered his body.

But North Dakota investigators told House lawmakers in January that Ravnsborg was untruthful about whether he was scrolling through his cellphone minutes before the crash.

South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg, joined by a bipartisan group of state attorneys general, speaks to reporters in Washington on September 9, 2019

Family of Joe Boever, pictured center, who was hit and killed by South Dakota AG in 2020 when he thought he hit a deer

Ravnsborg initially said he thought he had hit a deer or a large animal, and was unable to explain why his car had swerved. Pictured: The scene of the incident

They also explained they decided not to give Ravnsborg a polygraph because they didn't think he was a good candidate for it.

'I was willing to take a lie detector test,' Ravnsborg said, when asked to respond to the investigators' testimony.

'I took their testimony to basically say that they didn't want me to because they knew I would tell the truth. So I think that speaks volumes.'

The attorney general has adamantly resisted efforts from his fellow Republican, Governor Kristi Noem, to remove him from office.

Noem would get to name his replacement if he is impeached or resigns.

Earlier Wednesday, Governor Kristi Noem jumped into the impeachment investigation, slamming how fellow Republicans have so far focused on questioning crash investigators rather than Ravnsborgs conduct

Relatives of Boever watch a committee meeting investigating whether Ravnsborg should face impeachment charges. Dorothy Boever, left, Jennifer Boever, center, and Nick Nemec, right

He acknowledged that he had been making calls to the state Republican Party's delegates, who in June will decide the party's nominee for attorney general, though he cast it as part of his regular order of business.

Ravnsborg would face Republican Marty Jackley, his predecessor, at the state convention.

Ravnsborg declined to specifically comment on whether he is running for reelection and what he believed happened during the crash.

He said he would make a statement 'when the time is right, about what I believed happened with the accident.'
The key COVID-19 metrics continued to fluctuate in Forsyth County and statewide as the county approaches 700 related deaths.

Two additional deaths were reported Thursday, bringing the Forsyth total for the pandemic to 699, according to the N.C. Department and Health and Human Services.

Forsyth ended January with 73 COVID-19 deaths, the highest monthly toll so far.

DHHS lists COVID-19 cases and deaths on the day they are confirmed by medical providers and public health officials, so individuals may have been infected or may have died days or weeks before their cases were counted.

Local and state health officials have cautioned that an elevated number of COVID-19-related deaths could persist through early February.

However, those same officials have expressed confidence this week that the current omicron wave is waning.

Forsyths daily case count was 467 in Thursdays report, compared with 432 Wednesday, 250 Tuesday and 312 Monday. Tuesdays count was the lowest since the omicron variant began spreading in late December.

By comparison, the record daily case count for Forsyth is 1,318 on Jan. 18. Overall, Forsyth has had 87,362 cases.

Both Forsyth health director Joshua Swift and Dr. David Priest, an infectious diseases expert with Novant Health Inc., have said the number of COVID-19 cases likely is underreported given the increasing use of at-home test kits and people self-quarantining when getting a positive result.

There is no requirement for individuals to report a positive test result to a county health department.

Were starting to see the first signs of improvement with the omicron wave, Priest said Tuesday.

Testing sites are starting to slow down due to less demand ... some are down two-thirds from their testing peak of two weeks ago.

Higher positive tests

Forsyths positive test rate over the past 14 days was 35% as of noon Thursday, down slightly from a record 38.4% on Jan. 27. The statewide rate was 22.2%, down from 24.2% on Wednesday.

With Thursdays report, Forsyth is averaging 165 cases per 100,000 individuals over the most recent two-week period.

Thats up from the 67.6 cases per 100,000 reported as recently as Dec. 31, but down from a pandemic high of 259 cases per 100,000 reported on Jan. 21.

Priest expressed confidence that the declining community spread, coupled with more outpatient therapies for COVID-19, will lead to an improving outlook over the next few weeks.

Dr. Christopher Ohl, an infectious diseases expert with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, expressed continuing concern Thursday about the outbreaks in county long-term care facilities.

The number of active COVID-19 clusters within Forsyth nursing homes rose by five to 38 over the past week, according to the DHHS COVID-19 dashboard update Tuesday. A cluster is defined as at least five cases over a 28-day period.

Those clusters accounted for 533 infected staff members, up from 431 last week, and 452 residents, up from 189 last week.

There were three deaths among residents over the past week, increasing the total to 11 during the omicron outbreak that began about six weeks ago.

When a nursing home facility gets an outbreak, particularly with omicron, it tends to spread very quickly, Ohl said.

The outbreaks are coming primarily from infected staff members, including those with breakthrough cases, Ohl said.

These kind of cluster outbreaks will continue to occur well after our search with omicron is over, Ohl said.

Statewide update

North Carolina was reported with 14,966 new cases Thursday, up from 12,335 Wednesday, 8,757 Tuesday and 7,327 on Monday  which was the lowest daily total since the onset of the omicron surge.

The record-high statewide case count stands at 35,759, reported Jan. 14.

North Carolina has recorded 2.46 million cases and 21,027 COVID-related deaths since the pandemic began. The number of deaths statewide was up 123 from Wednesday.

There were 4,556 COVID-19 hospital patients statewide as of noon Thursday, down 169 from Wednesday. The pandemic record is 5,158 on Jan. 27.

The statewide hospitalization count has dropped over seven consecutive days.

Hospitals in the 17-county Triad region reported a combined 969 COVID-19 patients as of noon Thursday, down 68 from the previous report.

Statewide, 456 patients are on ventilators, including 97 in the Triad region. There were 109 children hospitalized with COVID-19 statewide, including 23 in the Triad region.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) The Railways has begun its outreach programme to connect with aspirants who had taken to the streets to protest against irregularities in its NTPC and Level 1 exams and on Thursday reached out to about two lakh students, according to officials.

Protests broke out in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh against the Railway Recruitment Boards' Non-Technical Popular Categories exam of 2021.

Also Read | '127 Tigers Died in 2021', Reveals MoS for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ashwini Kumar Choubey.

Railways had to suspend the exams due to the protests and formed a committee to look into the grievances.

On Thursday, the Railways said it has received 1,40,440 concerns on their web programme -- iroams.com/outreach, while 46,980 grievances were received via email.

Also Read | Rahul Gandhi Got Real Pulse of India, Says Indian Union Muslim League Member ET Mohammad Basheer.

Around 9,861 camps were held across zones by the Railway Recruitment Boards, which included personal interaction/email and paper submissions, it said.

The deadline to raise objections ends on February 16, 2022.

The committee after examining these concerns will submit their recommendations by March 4.

The candidates are opposing the Railways' decision to hold the exam in two stages, claiming the second stage for final selection tantamount to cheating those who appeared and cleared the first stage of the Railways' Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) for computer-based test released on January 15.

Around 1.25 crore candidates had applied for the exams that had advertised over 35,000 posts from levels 2 to 6. It is being alleged that the exam is designed to favour those with a higher qualification, even for jobs that require lesser qualification.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
ATMEH, Syria  The leader of the violent Islamic State group died in a U.S. military raid Thursday, blowing himself up along with members of his family as American special operations forces assaulted his hideout in northwestern Syria, President Joe Biden said.

It was the second time in less than three years that the U.S. took out a leader of the group that at the height of its power controlled more than 40,000 square miles stretching from Syria to Iraq and ruled over 8 million people.

U.S. officials called the operation a significant blow to the organization, which has been trying for a resurgence with attacks in the region, including an assault late last month to seize a prison in northeast Syria holding at least 3,000 IS detainees.

The raid targeted Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, who took over as head of the militant group on Oct. 31, 2019, just days after leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi died during a U.S. raid. Al-Qurayshi, unlike his predecessor, was far from a household name, a secretive man who presided over a far diminished version of the group and didn't appear in public.

Biden said al-Qurayshi died as al-Baghdadi did, by exploding a bomb that killed himself and members of his family, including women and children, as U.S. forces approached.

Thanks to the bravery of our troops this horrible terrorist leader is no more, Biden said at the White House. He said al-Qurayshi had been responsible for the prison assault, as well as genocide against the Yazidi people in Iraq in 2014.

About 50 U.S. special operations forces landed in helicopters and attacked a house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said. Residents described continuous gunfire and explosions that jolted the town of Atmeh near the Turkish border, an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syrias civil war.

Biden said he ordered U.S. forces to take every precaution available to minimize civilian casualties," the reason they did not conduct an airstrike on the home.

First responders reported that 13 people had been killed, including six children and four women.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said U.S. forces were able to evacuate 10 people from the building: a man, a woman and four children from the first floor and four children from the second floor. He said when al-Qurayshi detonated the bomb, he also killed his wife and two children. Kirby said that U.S. officials were working to determine whether American action resulted in any civilian deaths.

There were no U.S. casualties, Kirby said. U.S. forces took fingerprints and DNA, which confirmed al-Qurayshis death, he said.

Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and senior national security aides monitored a live-feed of the operation from the White House Situation Room according to an official. In December, a tabletop model of the three-floor house had been brought to the high-security room.

The raid marked a military success for the United States at an important time after setbacks elsewhere  including the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal  had led allies and opponents to conclude U.S. power globally was weakening.

The house, surrounded by olive trees in fields outside Atmeh, was left with its top floor shattered and blood spattered inside. A journalist on assignment for The Associated Press, and several residents, said they saw body parts scattered near the site. Most residents spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Idlib is largely controlled by Turkish-backed fighters but is also an al-Qaida stronghold and home to several of its top operatives. Other militants, including extremists from the rival IS group, have also found refuge in the region.

The first moments were terrifying; no one knew what was happening, said Jamil el-Deddo, a resident of a nearby refugee camp. We were worried it could be Syrian aircraft, which brought back memories of barrel bombs that used to be dropped on us, he added, referring to explosives-filled containers used by President Bashar Assads forces against opponents during the Syrian conflict.

The top floor of the low house was nearly destroyed, sending white bricks tumbling to the ground below.

A wrecked bedroom had a childs wooden crib and a stuffed rabbit doll. On one damaged wall, a blue plastic baby swing was still hanging. Religious books, including a biography of Islam's Prophet Mohammad, were in the house.

Al-Qurayshi had kept an extremely low profile since he took over leadership of the Islamic State. U.S. officials said he never left his apartment except to bathe on the buildings roof. It is difficult to gauge how his death will affect the group. U.S. officials claimed he was directly overseeing operations in Syria, including last months attack on the prison.

Theyre leaderless today, and thats a significant blow," Kirby said. "This not something we believe ISIS is going to be able to get over real quickly or real easily.

The second floor of the house was occupied by a lower-ranking Islamic State leader and his family, but the first floor contained civilians who were unconnected to the terrorist group and unaware of al-Qurayshis presence, according to U.S. officials, who described them as unwitting human shields.

Biden gave the final go on the mission on Tuesday morning during his daily national security briefing in the Oval Office, where he was joined by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley.

In the first stages of the operation, residents and activists said, U.S. commandos staged a large ground assault, using megaphones urging women and children to leave the area.

Much to the relief of U.S. officials, the family on the first floor exited the building unharmed.

The IS lieutenant, who officials did not name, who lived on the second floor barricaded himself inside along with his wife and engaged in combat with the commandos who entered the home after the explosion. After a firefight, in which both were killed, officials said four children were removed from the second floor alive by U.S. forces. Kirby said that it appeared that a child on the second floor also died, though the circumstances were not clear.

The special operations forces spent about two hours on the ground, longer than usual for such an operation  indicative, U.S. officials said, of caution to minimize civilian casualties.

Another firefight erupted with a local extremist group with hostile" intent, Kirby said. Two people were killed outside the house and their compadres left, he said.

U.S. troops launched the airborne raid from a base in the region, but officials would not specify the precise location due to operational security concerns. They added that the U.S. deconflicted the operation with a a range of entities but did not specify whether those included Russia, which has supported the Assad government in Syria.

Gen. Frank McKenzie, head of U.S. Central Command and the commander of the operation, said the mission goal was to capture al-Qurayshi. He said the blast set off by the IS leader was larger than would have been expected from a suicide vest, and that al-Qurayshi's body was found on the ground outside the building, thrown from the third floor by the force of the blast.

There was no comment from the Syrian government, which rarely acknowledges or comments on attacks by foreign countries targeting areas outside its control.

A U.S. official said one of the helicopters in the raid suffered a mechanical problem and was redirected to a site nearby, where it was destroyed.

Through slickly engineered propaganda, including brutal beheading videos, IS emerged as a dominant global extremist threat in the past decade. Its clarion call to followers in the West to either join its self-described caliphate in Syria, or to commit acts of violence at home, inspired killings in the U.S. as well as thousands of travelers determined to become foreign fighters.

Last months attack on the prison in Hasaka marked the groups biggest military operation since it was defeated and its members scattered underground in 2019. The attack appeared aimed to break free senior IS operatives in the prison.

It took 10 days of fighting for U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led forces to retake the prison fully, and the force said more than 120 of its fighters and prison workers were killed along with 374 militants.

Baldor and Miller reported from Washington, Mroue from Beirut. Associated Press writers Zeina Karam in Beirut, Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad and Eric Tucker, Chris Megerian, Ellen Knickmeyer and Alexandra Jaffe in Washington contributed reporting.
Titusville prognosticator Albert sits and sees his shadow in the snow. Albert predicted six more weeks of winter. The rest of the country will find out what Punxsutawney Phil predicts today, just about an hour south of town.
The project was passed around by several big-name directors including Gore Verbinski and Doug Liman. Even as the years progressed with no Gambit movie in sight, we still got headlines such as this one, giving us all false hope that we would one day get to see Channing Tatum attempt a Cajun accent while hurling flaming Bicycles at evil-doers:

The movie eventually found its way to Rise of the Planet of the Apes director Rupert Wyatt, who later claimed that the script had to be overhauled once the studio slashed the budget following the disaster that was 2015s craptastic Fantastic Four reboot. After Wyatt left, at one point it was even rumored that Tatum was considering directing the film himself. Eventually, though, the film fell victim to the Disney-Fox takeover.

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Screenwriter Simon Kinberg previously described the story as having romantic comedy undercurrents inspired by classic movie love stories like The Philadelphia Story and His Girl Friday. Now Tatum has revealed that the film would have been a straight-up romantic-comedy superhero movie and ultimately its thesis was that the only thing harder than saving the world is making a relationship work  which, come to think of it, was also the thesis behind My Super Ex-Girlfriend.

You (yes, you) should follow JM on Twitter!

Top Image: Sony Pictures/Marvel
Moroccans waited anxiously Thursday as authorities said a dramatic operation to rescue a young boy trapped in a deep well for more than 40 hours was nearing its end.

The five-year-old, named as Rayan, fell down the narrow 32-metre (100-foot) deep well on Tuesday evening in his home village near Bab Berred in the rural northern province of Chefchaouen, local media said.

"The child's rescue is approaching," government spokesman Mustapha Baitas said Thursday. "Our hearts are with the family, and we are praying that he will back with them as soon as possible."

The shaft was too narrow for rescuers to reach the bottom, so heavy diggers were dispatched to dig a hole alongside it.

On Thursday afternoon, news website Le360 said that "only nine metres" (30 foot) remained to be dug "that will allow rescuers to reach the boy".

The MAP news agency said rescuers had been able to send him oxygen and water via pipes.

Rayan's father told Le360 he had been repairing the well when the boy fell into it.

Lead rescuer Abdelhabi Temrani told Al Oula television that the diameter of the well was less than 45 centimetres.

Baitas said the nature of the soil meant it was too dangerous to try to widen the hole, meaning major excavations around it were the only solution.

The drama has sparked an outpouring of sympathy online, with the Arabic hashtag #SaveRayan going viral across the North African region, including in neighbouring Algeria.

The boy's fate has also attracted crowds of people to the site of the operation, putting pressure on rescuers operating in "difficult conditions", Baitas said.

"We call on citizens to let the rescuers do their job and save this child," he said.

Authorities have also prepared a helicopter to take the child to hospital once he is extracted, national news channel 2M said.
An overnight raid conducted by U.S. special forces in Syria has resulted in the death of the leader of the terrorist Islamic State group.

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi was killed as he exploded a bomb at his compound in the countrys northwestern Idlib province. The blast also caused the death of members of his family, including children, U.S. officials said.

This isnt the first time that American forces have targeted the head of terrorist organizations, nor the first time they have been successful. The Conversation asked Amira Jadoon, a terrorism expert at the U.S. Military Academy, and Haroro J. Ingram and Andrew Mines, research fellows at the George Washington Universitys Program on Extremism, to explain how this raid fits the U.S.s counterterrorism strategy, and where it leaves the Islamic State.

1. Who was Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi?

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi is the alias adopted by Amir Muhammad Said Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla, who became leader of the Islamic State in 2019 following the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in a U.S. raid.

He was born in 1976 in Mosul, northern Iraq. But very little was known about al-Qurayshi until September 2020, when it emerged that he had been detained and interrogated by U.S. forces in Iraq in early 2008.

Declassified tactical interrogation reports from that period depict al-Qurayshi as a recently graduated scholar who experienced a meteoric rise through the Islamic State groups ranks.

Al-Qurayshi claimed that he joined the group in 2007, having finished a masters degree in Quranic studies from Mosul University.

Soon after joining, al-Qurayshi became the groups Shariah adviser, a major religious figure, in Mosul and later the deputy wali, or shadow governor, of the city before his capture in early 2008.

The interrogation reports show that al-Qurayshi revealed the names of at least 20 alleged members of the Islamic State of Iraq, as the group was known at the time. His betrayal came at a time when group members were being killed or captured in large numbers by U.S. and coalition forces.

Story continues

Relatively little is known about al-Qurayshis activities for the next decade after he was released. But he reportedly oversaw the Islamic State groups attempted genocide of Iraqs minority Yazidis and had served as deputy to al-Baghdadi since at least 2018.

His rise to caliph was controversial in jihadist circles, not helped by the release of his interrogation records after becoming leader.

2. Where does his death leave Islamic State operationally?

The operation against al-Qurayshi arrives at a precarious time for the Islamic State group. The organizations transition from an Iraq-centric movement to a global insurgency with affiliates dotted across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia is still relatively fresh.

Recent Islamic State attacks on Hasakah prison in northeast Syria and elsewhere across Iraq have hinted that the group is more advanced in rebuilding its capabilities across traditional heartlands than perhaps expected. But the death of al-Qurayshi just two years after that of his predecessor raises uncertainty over who will succeed him.

The fact that the Islamic State group couldnt protect its top leader shows the continued pressure the group faces from U.S. and allied forces.

Al-Qurayshis rapid demise  his predecessor led for almost a decade  may also indicate internal rifts. After he took over as leader, al-Qurayshi was mockingly described by dissenters within the terrorist group as an unknown nobody while others questioned his suitability as leader, especially after the release of his interrogation reports in September 2020.

It may be that al-Qurayshi was himself betrayed, ultimately contributing to the circumstances that led to the U.S. raid. If so, it could indicate a split within the group between al-Qurayshi and those who wanted him gone.

Now, the Islamic State is likely to appoint al-Qurayshis successor based on the deliberation of its shura council, its senior leadership panel, as it has done previously.

If it happens as it has in the past, al-Qurayshis successor could be appointed in the next few days or weeks. Hell be given an alias to conceal his identity. Group members and leaders of Islamic State global affiliates will be asked to pledge allegiance to him, but he may not make a public appearance for months or years  if ever.

3. What effect has killing the heads of terrorist groups had in the past?

Leadership decapitation  or the targeted killing of militant groups top leaders  is a key component of counterterrorism and counterinsurgency. It is widely used by many nations, including the United States.

But terrorism experts dont agree on how effective killing top leaders is. Some have argued that taking out a terrorist leader constrains the operational capacity of groups and disrupts their organizational routines, making it harder for them to carry out attacks.

It may, it has been argued, also contribute to organizational collapse. Research shows that under the right circumstances, the targeting of top leaders can result in fewer violent attacks by a militant group and increase the chances of defeating an insurgency.

Yet other counterterrorism experts highlight problems with targeted killings. They argue that they can result in decentralization of the group and increase indiscriminate violence by targeted groups.

The tactic is also generally considered to be less effective against groups like the Islamic State and al-Qaida that have well-managed leadership structures and succession protocols.

The Islamic State group has survived multiple deaths within its leadership precisely because of its bureaucratic approach to succession, and because it still enjoys pockets of strong local support.

In the short term, the death of al-Qurayshi may cause the Islamic State group to lie low. But this will not indicate the demise of the organization. The loss of al-Qurayshi could also trigger retaliation attacks as a signal of resolve among members and to stay relevant in the global jihadist landscape.

4. How much of a global and regional threat is Islamic State group?

Back in early 2019, the U.S. and allied forces successfully beat back the Islamic State group from its height in 2014-16, when it controlled larges parts of Iraq and Syria.

The group has recently shifted attention to prominent affiliates, like those in sub-Saharan Africa and Afghanistan.

This shift highlights how the Islamic State has maintained its relevance: If it experiences decline in its strongholds of Iraq and Syria, affiliates elsewhere are able to keep the vision of the global caliphate alive.

The recent terrorist attacks in Syria and Iraq suggest that the Islamic States resurgence strategy is much further along than many observers may have expected.

Elsewhere, affiliates are engaged in intense insurgencies against local governments and rival militant groups. This includes persistent threats from IS-West Africa Province in the Lake Chad region, and IS-Central Africa Province in the Congo and Mozambique. Indeed, Africa is poised to be a key Islamic State battleground going forward.

Meanwhile in Afghanistan, ISIS-K has pursued a relatively successful strategy to rally after years of losses at the hands of the U.S.-led coalition, challenging the new Taliban government and competing for control of provinces in the countrys northeast.

The death of al-Qurayshi is unlikely to affect the operations of Islamic State groups affiliates in any meaningful way. Many have strategies that draw heavily on local resources and alliances with other groups. While the latest U.S. raid may result in temporary uncertainty for the broader movement, history suggests the Islamic State movement will be able to push forward with regional attacks and reestablish the support of affiliates around the world.

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This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. It was written by: Haroro J. Ingram, George Washington University; Amira Jadoon, United States Military Academy West Point, and Andrew Mines, George Washington University.

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The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
This article appears in the February 4, 2022 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

[Print version of this article]

PERUS CHRISTIAN DEMOCRATIC PARTY

Neither Left Nor Right:

For the Common Good of Mankind

Jan. 24The Christian Democratic Party of Peru, through its President Carlos Gallardo, issued the following Letter of Adherence to the Schiller Institute on January 23, 2022.

Letter of Adherence to the Schiller Institute

Mrs. Helga Zepp-LaRouche,

founder of the Schiller Institute:

I would like to take this opportunity of our gathering for the celebration of the 66th anniversary of the Christian Democratic Party of Peru, of which I am honored to be President, to personally express that we and the Schiller Institute are united by a coincidence of philosophical principles and economic policies which you so fervently and courageously promote universally. For that reason, as President of the Party and on behalf of our membership, I formalize our Adherence to the Schiller Institute.

The world is going through one of the most acute and dramatic crises of modern history. Plague, war, hunger, and poverty threaten the existence of mankind and nations. Everything seems lost. However, as we have already shown, we are the only species created in the image and likeness of God, with the ability to completely turn that process around, which now appears to be fatal. The crisis is a result of the fact that what have ruled the world in recent decades have been policies of confrontation and the geopolitics of exploitation; a stark neoliberalism that has legitimized usury, and the imposition of the interests of minority groups over the interests of the great majority and the common good. The class struggle that the left and right elites are trying to impose will worsen this situation.

The hope lies in returning to the ideas so beautifully presented by Cardinal Nicholas of Cusa, of the common good, of establishing and carrying out solutions that benefit all. These are the principles that the Schiller Institute and the Christian Democratic Party of Peru share.

As can be seen in Chinas Belt and Road proposal, it is possible to adopt and implement a program of physical infrastructure development and to bring science and technology capabilities to the entire world. It is possible to make development the name of peace a universal initiative, which the western powers, and especially the United States, should join. In that way, happiness and joy could be brought to the immense majorities who are suffering, especially our youth.

Our optimism comes precisely from our ability to be able to rapidly forge a worldwide political alliance on behalf of these initiatives, which will bring shared benefits and development.

I would like to announce to our membership that, in order to accelerate our goal of making politics an educational process for our nation and thereby return to the true meaning of political activitythat is, the quest for the common goodour Party will begin a seminar on the Christian Science of Physical Economy, an approach that the late great thinker Lyndon LaRouche so brilliantly synthesized and which will be the indispensable basis for the formulation of our economic and political program for our Peru.
A woman has shared why she needed to leave her beauty appointment with half-plumped lips.

TikTok star Hareem Shah, who has 6.5million followers, detailed the awkward situation in a now-viral video.

The Pakistani woman explained she had to leave urgently after receiving a phone call about a money-laundering investigation against her.

Speaking in Urdu, but as translated by India Today, she said: 'I am in the UK right now. Today I went to the doctor to get my lip filler done.'

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In a viral video, Pakistani TikTok star Hareem Shah explained she had to leave her beauty appointment urgently after receiving a phone call about a money-laundering investigation against her

'The doctor had just inserted a filler on one side of my lip when I received a call and I got to know that the Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency has frozen my bank accounts,' Ms Shah said.

She said she decided to walk out of the expensive salon treatment as she wouldn't have been able to pay for the service due to the bank accounts being frozen.

According to Dawn, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) launched a money laundering probe against the TikTok star on January 12 after she was seen with two huge stacks of cash in a separate video.

Ms Shah revealed she had left Pakistan to travel to the UK with a 'heavy amount' of British pounds.

'The government had promised to increase the [value] of the currency, increase the [value] of the [Pakistani] passport, but they didn't do anything. They could only talk,' she said in the clip.

Ms Shah issued a warning to those wanting to travel with large amounts of money to 'be careful' as 'they catch you'.

'Nobody said anything to me and, you know, they cannot. I came very easily,' she said.
Coming to the NSW press conference from this morning, and NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant was asked how concerned she was about the combination of a flu season and another COVID-19 wave this year.

Yesterday, Australias Chief Medical Officer said he believes the country will experience another Omicron wave in winter, along with a wave of influenza.

I hope Im wrong about that, but thats the realistic expectation I have, Professor Paul Kelly said.

Heres Dr Chants response in full:

I think we need to approach 2022 with a degree of optimism.

Weve got vaccines that are holding up well, well have further vaccines throughout the year, weve got anti-virals and we also really know what tools we have to slow the spread or stop the spread and provide protection for you individually.

I think that whilst we will see challenges in the year, we will see waves, we will expect to see case numbers come down, but as immunity wanes, we may well see an uptick in cases, we may need to re-vaccinate some people that are particularly at risk of severe outcomes.

We need to do planning for flu. Weve had two years without flu. But its really positive that some of the tools that weve used to fight COVID, like good handwashing, mask-wearing, staying at home when youre sick, will also be good and effective interventions against flu.

So yes, were watchful, and were planning now for a flu season as youd expect, but again I think we should be increasingly hopeful as we go through 2022 that we know and have the tools available to combat whatever comes.

Expect the unexpected but lets approach it with a degree of optimism.
After last years proposed 1% general purpose tax was voted down in a special election, Sweetwater Countys Board of County Commissioners wants to handle things differently when it comes to this years proposed specific purpose tax initiative. In order to do this, the commissioners voted to retain professional services to help present the tax initiative to the public.

In the last tax initiative, the public didnt feel like they were heard beforehand, Commissioner Lauren Schoenfeld said during Tuesdays meeting. She said working with another group will allow us to get the publics input prior to making any ballot decisions.

The group Schoenfeld has been working with for several months in Turn Corps, a Colorado-based company founded five years ago by Sara OKeefe and Bryan Blakely. Schoenfeld said a Sweetwater County committee with local municipality representatives recently recommended moving forward with engaging Turn Corps to help with the tax initiative. OKeefe and Blakely spoke to the commissioners via Zoom to explain their companys work and how they hope to help with the specific purpose tax.

Turn Corpss main goal is to help clients navigate complex policies and projects with their constituents, OKeefe said. She explained the company focuses on bringing constituents together to have a dialogue and create transparent processes around some of these more complex ballot initiatives so people feel informed when they get their ballots.

OKeefe said she has heard about the failed tax initiative in 2021 and the goal with the specific purpose ballot initiative is to help people understand how this tax will be different and how people can be engaged. Turn Corpss approach involves working in phases. Phase one would focus on restarting the conversation with the community, OKeefe said.

The main factors in Turn Corpss phase one plan are a community survey and paid promotion, OKeefe explained. Two community survey options were presented  a more complex and scientifically-validated survey with about 300 controlled respondents to represent the whole community or a simpler poll open to anyone to provide quantitative insight. The scientifically-validated survey would cost $13,500 while the simpler survey would cost $7,500.

The paid promotion recommended by Turn Corps involves paid ads in local newspapers and on news websites and paid boosted social media posts, which could cost up to $2,500. Turn Corps also estimated a $10,000 budget for communication and content fees for developing messaging, writing press releases and ad/promotional content for news outlets and social media, website content, and participating in meetings.

Schoenfeld said she believed the county should cover the cost of at least phase one of Turn Corpss plan in order to take the lead of moving through the ballot initiative process.

Schoenfeld made a motion to approve Turn Corpss proposal and move forward with phase one at not more than $20,000, which would mean using the simpler and less expensive community survey. Commissioner Randy Wendling seconded the motion, and Commissioner Mary Thoman and Chairman Jeff Smith voted to approve it. Commissioner Roy Lloyd voted against the motion. Lloyd said he believes the process is good, but also expressed concern over passing the ballot initiative.

I think the level that we lost voter confidence was pretty strong, Lloyd said.

Lloyd said he worries about spending money to find out people dont want to pass the specific purpose tax.

We want this to be successful, Schoenfeld said of the tax. We dont want to do another ballot initiative thats not going to be successful. Thats a waste of all of our time and our energy, plus it makes it so in the future its even less likely to pass, and we know how important these projects are. All of our communities feel very passionately about moving forward and we want to make sure that we are getting the publics input before moving forward with anything at all.

Other Business:

The commissioners and Public Works Director Gene Legerski rejected a request from the Boy Scouts of America to use Pioneer Trails Park for an overnight camping activity lasting several days. Legerski explained all of Green Rivers parks have a no overnight camping rule and the park isnt currently set up to accommodate overnight camping, especially for large groups of people over multiple days. The commissioners agreed it would be nice if Pioneer Trails Park can be set up for overnight camping in the future, but because it is not currently set up for it, they did not approve the BSAs request.

The commissioners approved requests to restaff a vacant position in the countys Engineering Department and to hire seasonal employees for both the Parks and Recreation and Road and Bridge departments. Wendling voted no on the requests for the Engineering and Parks and Recreation departments, expressing during both discussions his hesitation to fill more positions without further discussion when the board has recently had multiple conversations about reevaluating positions and making county departments more efficient. Lloyd also voted no to the request to hire seasonal positions for Parks and Recreation. All five commissioners voted to approve the request to hire seasonal workers for the Road and Bridge Department since usually the department partners with Climb Wyoming to hire drivers, but Climb Wyoming was unable to train drivers this year.

The Sweetwater County Historical Museum requested to use the county courthouses community room for an upcoming quilts exhibit, which was approved by the commissioners. The museum previously used the community room in December for a holiday exhibit and would like to use the room again since it provides more space for displaying quilts than is available at the museum. This is the fifth year the museum has partnered with the Sweetwater County Quilt Guild for an annual quilt display. This years display will feature table toppers, which is part of the reason the museum needs more space than usual for the display and wanted to use the community room. The exhibit will be displayed during March and April.

Kandi Pendleton, the executive director at the Sweetwater Events Complex, shared the Sweetwater Events Complex Foundations plans to build a pavilion at the Events Complex since the Events Complex has a Memorandum of Understanding with the commissioners to be aware of projects on the facility. The pavilion project has been in the works, but the foundation recently received a donation from the Spicer Family Foundation which will provide the funding for the project to go forward with infrastructure, timber structure, landscaping, hard surfacing and signage. Pendleton showed illustrations of what the pavilion will look like and where it will be located.
Iris Rideau worked closely with L.A. Mayor Tom Bradley, upper right with Rideau, before retiring to the Central Coast for a second act as a winemaker. She turned the historic Alamo Pintado Adobe into the Rideau Vineyard tasting room. (Illustration by Ross May / Los Angeles Times; photos from Iris Rideau)

There are only two things you can do if you buy close to 30 acres of land in the Santa Ynez Valley, according to retired winemaker Iris Rideau: raise horses or grow grapes.

That was an easy decision, Rideau said, with a laugh. I dont ride horses but I do drink wine.

Rideau, widely celebrated as the first Black woman to own a winery in the U.S., spent an afternoon showing me some of her favorite spots in Santa Barbara's wine country (travel tips below). By the day's end, I'd begun to suspect that if Rideau had chosen to pursue equine husbandry instead of winemaking, she might well have excelled at that too.

She's just exceptional, not just in the wine community but the business world at large, said wine consultant and CorkCamp founder Kyla Cox, who profiled Rideau for the Vintner Project in 2020. I think we have a lot to learn from her.

After more than two decades of channeling her business acumen and hospitality into the wine business, Rideau sold her Solvang vineyard in 2016 to its current owners.

Today, her legacy towers over the Santa Ynez Valley  not unlike the tall pines she planted as saplings along Rideau Vineyards driveway that now offer visitors a shady portal to the magic of an afternoon spent wine tasting.

Rideaus decision to create her own vineyard  a massive undertaking, as anyone in the wine industry will tell you  would leave reverberations that extend far beyond this sun-soaked hill country north of Santa Barbara.

She blazed trails, said Tahiirah Habibi, founder of the Hue Society , a group dedicated to supporting Black wine culture. Her presence was really instrumental in a lot of women getting into the wine industry.

From the Deep South to the Central Coast

Rideau, 85, didnt always call California home, spending her childhood in Jim Crow-era New Orleans. At the time, I hated the South. We couldn't try on clothes. We couldn't look at white people  we had to put our head down, step off the sidewalk, she said, recalling the racist laws that institutionalized segregation for generations.

Rideau moved west to California in her early teenage years. After becoming pregnant with daughter Renee, she found work at a sewing factory in Los Angeles to make ends meet.

That was the turning point in my life, that sewing factory. It was like, I am never going to stay here,"Rideau said. I went back to night school and I worked at the factory during the day. And I took business courses, which I loved.

Rideaus affinity for business would shape the rest of her life.

After finishing junior college and getting experience at an insurance agency, Rideau eventually opened her own agency and later a financial securities company, specializing in pension planning for public employees.

I landed the contract with the city of L.A. for their pension plan, Rideau said. That's how I made my money.

Rideau also worked closely with then-mayor of Los Angeles Tom Bradley in putting together an affirmative action program designed to assist women and people of color in securing contracts with the city.

Rideau began considering retirement in 1989. Between politics and the financial world, it was really kind of getting to me, she said. So I headed north up the 101.

She says the Santa Ynez Valley spoke to her soul. When I turned into this valley, I went: This is it. This is where I want to spend the rest of my life,' Rideau recalls.

She built a home on the hill over the vineyard she would one day own.

I purchased a property in 95, [which] had been abandoned for 10 years. It was a Santa Barbara County historical landmark, Rideau explained.

The Alamo Pintado Adobe  built in 1884  would eventually be turned into Rideau Vineyards tasting room.

Southern hospitality in the Santa Ynez Valley

Wine tourism in the Santa Ynez Valley looked different when Rideau purchased her vineyard in 1995.

In those days, wine tasting rooms were pretty much focused on just having people come in to taste wine, buy wines and go, Rideau said. My concept was totally the opposite of that  complete hospitality coming from my Southern background.

Rideau prioritized sharing New Orleans customs with her guests; playing blues and jazz, doling out handfuls of Mardi Gras beads and making gumbo on the weekends.

I brought my culture to the valley and really had no competition, Rideau said. [Guests] would leave and go on the Wine Trail and tell other people about the wonderful experience they had at Rideau.

As her vineyard grew in popularity, Rideau began seeking out other women and people of color in the wine industry.

When I started, I couldn't find one winemaker of color, and I couldn't find a woman, Rideau said. I finally hired a woman winemaker in 2014.

In late August 2021, Rideau traveled to the Hue Societys third annual Wine & Culture Fest in Atlanta as an honored guest.

We actually named an award after her, said Habibi. Moving forward, the Iris Rideau Pioneer Award will be given to those the Hue Society recognizes as paving the way for others as they go along, Habibi said.

The wine industry has traditionally been white men, but thanks to Ms. Rideau more women and people of color are now in the industry, said Theodora Lee, a senior partner and trial lawyer at Littler Mendelson and founder of Theopolis Vineyards. Because Ms. Rideau opened the door, I am proud to have been recognized as a 2020 Wine Industry Leader by Wine Business Monthly.

"In 2021, I was a Wine Enthusiasts 22nd annual Wine Star Award Person of the Year nominee. But [if not] for Ms. Rideau, I may not have had these opportunities," Lee added. I love her drive, tenacity and determination to succeed despite racism and other barriers."

Rideaus passion for the wine industry made her decision to sell her vineyard in 2016 all the more challenging.

It is hard to make up your mind to sell, she said. You have to find the right person.

For Rideau, the right person was actually two people: Martin and Isabelle Gauthier, a couple from Montreal.

They are French Canadians, so that's why it made sense for me, Rideau said. There's a whole history of Cajuns migrating from Canada down to Louisiana. That's part of my heritage, and so, when I met them, I was like, OK, this all connects.

Since retiring from winemaking, Rideau has doubled down on writing a memoir, due to be published this spring, and traveling. I want to spread my wings and travel to all the places I haven't been before, she said. I plan to go to New Orleans every year from now on.

Despite her penchant for travel, Rideau keeps deep roots planted in the fertile soil of the Santa Ynez Valley

Living just a few minutes away, she makes frequent visits to her former vineyard, accompanied by her two Havanese dogs. It's still part of my life.

Interested in experiencing a slice of Rideaus life in the Santa Ynez Valley? Heres where she took me during the summer afternoon we spent together:

Rideau Vineyard



Begin your afternoon of wine tasting by sampling Rideaus signature flight, which showcases the vineyards Rhone varietals.

Take time to enjoy Rideau Vineyards picnic tables and the shade of its ancient oaks. This place is truly magical, a fellow guest said to me as he took in the view.

Care to take a bottle home with you? Rideau suggests her absolute favorite white wine, the Stainless Steel Estate Viognier. This is like drinking water for me. I drink this every night, she said.

Beckmen Vineyards

After finishing up at Rideau, continue your tour of the valleys Rhone varietals at Beckmen Vineyards. They make some of the finest Rhones in the valley, Rideau said.

Take time to enjoy the view of Beckmens ponds, specially designed to attract birds, turtles, frogs and other wildlife. The water features echo the vineyards dedication to biodiversity and natural biodynamic farming.

Tom Beckmen said that when he and Judy Beckmen bought their vineyard, Farming practices were not the greatest here.

Early on, we put about 40 acres in biodynamic farming. And after a couple of years, it was so dramatically different. It just looked so much healthier, he said.

The Beckmen influence reaches beyond the confines of Santa Barbara County. We had one of our Grenache wines served at the White House, said marketing manager Taylor Hart. The 2007 Estate Grenache was at Barack Obamas first state dinner as president.

Vincent Vineyards

Just a mile down the winding Ontiveros Road and across California 154 from Beckmen lies Vincent Vineyards.

Gazing across the outdoor tasting terrace and rows of thriving vines, its hard to imagine the dead walnut orchard that covered the land before owners Tony and Tanya Vincent brought the winery to life in the mid-aughts.

Since then, the Vincents have transformed the space into an instantly memorable place to sip, from the black-and-white photo of Tony with members of the Rat Pack showcased on one wall of the winerys interior to the mountains of Los Padres National Forest peeking over the vines.

In addition to Vincent Vineyards upscale interior, the tasting experience feels homey and accessible  like stopping by a friends patio for a glass of wine.

Rideau calls the Vincents her best friends in the valley, explaining how Tanyas warmth and commitment to hospitality pervade the vineyard. She reminds me of me, Rideau said.

Refugio Ranch tasting room

Save some time to stroll Grand Avenue in nearby Los Olivos, lined with tasting rooms, finishing up at rustic-chic Refugio Ranch.

I just love this place. To me, it represents the valley. Its laid-back, its country, said Rideau as we walked through the wooden doors. This is the locals hangout.

Proprietor Kevin Gleason  the Gleason Family Vineyards portfolio he runs with his wife, Niki, includes Refugio Ranch  can speak firsthand to the friendliness that pervades the valleys vineyards first-hand.

I met more people in three months here than in two years in Santa Barbara, Gleason said, recalling his early days in the valley.

Gleason, a fellow Rhone ranger alongside Rideau, is serious about his role as an ambassador of Santa Ynez Valley winemaking, which only began gaining wide recognition in the 1990s.

The most exciting wines are being made right here, right now, Gleason said. We're not competing with Napa. We're creating the Central Coast.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
FBI Director Says No Imbalance Between Jan. 6 and 2020 Riot Prosecutions

The FBIs top official has defended the bureau against critics who say its more aggressively pursuing people who committed crimes on Jan. 6, 2021, compared with people who torched buildings and carried out other illegal acts during the riots in 2020.

The FBI has opened hundreds of investigations and made hundreds of arrests involving each matter, Director Christopher Wray said during a Jan. 31 talk. The bureau has also utilized nearly all of its 56 field offices and its Joint Terrorism Task Force to investigate both the Jan. 6 breach of the U.S. Capitol and the 2020 riots.

We have one standard, which is, I dont care whether youre upset about an election, upset at our criminal justice system, whatever it is youre upset about, theres a right way and a wrong way to express your being upset in this country. And violence against law enforcement destruction of property is not it. Thats what the rule of law is about, Wray said, speaking at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in California after delivering a speech warning against Chinas communist government.

Moderator John Heubusch, the librarys executive director and a former top official for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, referred to the breach as a tragedy and called it a very good thing to go after the bad actors responsible, but also voiced a concern that people who committed crimes in 2020 did similar things and that the FBI may not be giving equal justice to law.

After Wray, a Trump nominee, defended the bureau, the director said there were key differences between the breach and the riots.

On Jan. 6, people stormed the Capitol in broad daylight, and the events were photographed extensively, Wray said. In contrast, the riots often took place under the cover of darkness, with peoples faces concealed, and some of the buildings rioters attacked werent federal property.

So the federal hook, the federal jurisdiction is sometimes a little different, and the ability to prove it is more challenging, Wray said. But were still working those cases. Were aggressively pursuing both. And as I said, we have one standard, which is you dont get to commit violence.

The FBI has continued to pursue people involved in the Jan. 6 breach and announces new charges regularly, though less often than soon after the breach. Prosecution of crimes committed during the tumult in 2020 has mostly petered off.

Overall, the FBI has arrested about 250 people linked to 2020 riots, versus over 725 related to Jan. 6.

Additionally, many of those hit with charges stemming from actions in 2020 saw their charges dropped, while prosecutors have rarely done the same in the cases involving Jan. 6.

Kyle Shideler, director and senior analyst for homeland security and counterterrorism at the Center for Security Policy, said that Wrays contention that the FBI and its parent agency, the Department of Justice (DOJ), have treated both groups the same was an embarrassing falsehood.

Nearly three times as many individuals have been federally charged for an incident which lasted four hours, compared to violent rioting that lasted for a period of four months, and featured near-nightly attacks against government buildings in multiple states, he told The Epoch Times in an email.

Government prosecutors have even sought lower sentences for some riot defendants because of their support for so-called social justice, including in the case of a Minneapolis arsonist who burned down a pawnshop where a man was later found burned to death, Shideler noted, adding that DOJ attorneys have dismissed numerous charges against 2020 rioters, including nearly all charges against those who sought to attack the White House on June 1, 2020.

Some Jan. 6 defendants have attempted to draw attention to the apparent discordance. Most federal judges in Washington have rejected those attempts, though U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden, said in a ruling in December 2021 that he was troubled by the treatment of 2020 rioters.

Rarely has the Government shown so little interest in vigorously prosecuting those who attack federal officers, he wrote.

But the judge turned down a request from defendant David Judd, saying he had not shown that the 2020 defendants were similarly situated to him.

He cannot do so. Although both Portland and January 6 rioters attacked federal buildings, the Portland defendants primarily attacked at night, meaning that they raged against a largely vacant courthouse, McFadden said. In contrast, the January 6 rioters attacked the Capitol in broad daylight. And many entered it. Thousands of congressional staffers walked the Capitols corridors that day. So did hundreds of legislators and the Vice President, all of whom appeared for a constitutionally mandated proceeding.
Cleo Smith's mother revealed the moment she realised her daughter was missing and that the four-year-old is still recovering following her alleged abduction.

Ellie Smith relived the heart-stopping moment alongside her partner Jake Gliddon during the $2million interview with Channel Nine's 60 Minutes.

The interview is set to air on Sunday while a short segment was teased to audiences on breakfast morning show 'Today' on Friday.

'I felt like my heart, it told me, she's not here, she's not going to run into my arms today,' Ms Smith said. 'She's not going to run down a sand dune.

'She was basically nowhere near me. And that was the second I realised someone had her. Someone has her, someone has my baby.'

Reporter Tara Brown, who conducted the interview, spoke more about the upcoming segment revealing that Cleo experienced moments of 'sadness and anger'.

Cleo Smith 's mother revealed the moment she realised her daughter was missing and that the four-year-old is still recovering following her alleged abduction

Reporter Tara Brown, who conducted the interview, spoke more about the upcoming segment revealing that Cleo experienced moments of 'sadness and anger'

'You know, I think it's a matter of still coming to terms with what they've been through and what their daughter has been through,' she told hosts Karl Stefanovic and Allison Langdon.

Cleo, 4, was allegedly abducted from her family's holiday campsite in Carnarvon, WA, on October 16 and found 18 days later just 3km from her family home.

Brown said the family had a 'huge amount' of gratitude for the detectives and search party who helped to find the missing girl.

'I mean, remember also for that 18 days, the police were working away, but the family was getting nothing,' she said.

'So, you know, it is all tinged by frustration and fear, but they're very grateful for their own community, the community of Carnarvon who, you know, stood by them so strongly.

'They're really grateful towards the police and very grateful for all the well wishes they got from around the country.'

Cleo's parents were forced to do their $2million interview with 60 Minutes over video chat due to Western Australia's hard border.

Nine won an intense bidding war against Seven, which interviewed Cleo's parents during the search, and paid $2million for a huge package of content.

But due to WA's closed border, Brown was unable to enter the state to sit with the family so instead talked to them over Zoom while film crews recorded both sides of the interview.

An ad for the interview tried to make it look like Brown was in the same room as the room she sat in had similar colours and what appeared to be photos on a mantlepiece in the background as she spoke.

Nine confirmed the interview was done remotely and said it became standard procedure during the Covid pandemic.

'We had a crew in WA who filmed the story and Tara spoke to them via Zoom,' it said.

'It is how very many TV stories have been done for the past two years of the pandemic.'

Cleo, four, was allegedly abducted from her family's holiday campsite in Carnarvon, WA, but was miraculously found 18 days later just 3km from her family home

Due to WA's harsh border restriction interviewer Tara Brown was unable to enter the state to sit with Cleo's family so instead chatted with them over a video call while film crews filmed both ends of the discussion

Journalist Neil McMahon called Nine's interview a 'costly video call' in a tweet alongside a screenshot of The Australian's Media Diary.

'Nine's very expensive interview with Cleo Smith's family? It was done via Zoom due to WA border restrictions! That's one helluva costly video call,' he wrote.

Pearman Media director of strategy and research Steve Allen told News Corp he was shocked at the interview's steep price.

'For the family at the reported amount, even under the distressing circumstances, they are now rich beyond their wildest dreams,' he said.

'There must have been more than one media outlet chasing this exclusive to go that high. [It] must have been fierce competition.'

Doing the interview remotely upset Nine employees as WA-based reporters were snubbed and the company recently had a series of budget cuts.

The previous record for amount paid for an interview in Australian history went to two survivors of the Beaconsfield mine disaster, Brant Webb and Todd Russell

'This kind of money could employ not only dozens of journalists but is also enough to run multiple programs,' one senior television executive told The Australian.

The previous record for amount paid for an interview in Australian history went to two survivors of the Beaconsfield mine disaster, Brant Webb and Todd Russell.

The miners were each paid $1million by Nine for recounting how they survived trapped underground for two weeks in 2006.

Industry sources said the large sum is due to Nine boss Mike Sneesby's determination to boost ratings after being beat by Seven last year.
One of Australia's best known jockeys has been rushed to hospital following a horror incident in the starting barriers at a race meet.

Three-time Melbourne Cup winning rider Damien Oliver was on board Ethekwini moments before the final race of the day at Warranambool in regional Victoria on Thursday when the horse began playing up in the barriers.

Confronting scenes from the track show Oliver, 49, lying on a stretcher and being placed into an ambulance before being taken to hospital for precautionary scans on his neck.

Damien Oliver (pictured with wife Trish) was rushed to hospital on Thursday after a horror incident at the track

Confronting footage shows Oliver lying on a stretcher and placed into an ambulance

There were grave concerns for Oliver until the Victorian Jockeys Association provided a further update on Friday morning.

'Good news from Warrnambool hospital is that scans on Damien Oliver's neck have returned clear of any fracture,' it said.

The horse was scratched from the race but is also reported to be fine.

Oliver will decide on Saturday whether he'll race at Caulfield, where he has six starts that day with another six rides lined up at Bendigo on Sunday.

It was a rare trip for Oliver who rarely races at Warrnambool outside the May racing carnival.

The race was meant to be Oliver's fourth of the day and could only managed a third placing from his earlier starts.

Oliver has won the Melbourne Cup three times on Doriemus (1995), Media Puzzle (2002) and Fiorente (2013).

His courageous winning ride in 2002 came days after the tragic death of his brother Jason in a racing incident.

'I would give the trophy back to see my brother again,' an emotional Oliver said at the time.
The drinking water supply in Abbeyleix is off the at risk list after what Irish Water says has been a big investment which included the installation to kill of the Cryptosporidium bacteria that can make water unsafe.

The State water provider says the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from the Remedial Action List (RAL). Over 1,800 water customers depend on the Abbeyleix Water Supply.

Irish Water said the Remedial Action List identifies drinking water supplies that are at risk of failing to consistently supply safe, clean drinking water. It said the Abbeyleix supply has been approved for removal by the EPA following extensive investment and upgrade works by Irish Water working in partnership with Laois County Council.

The company said the Abbeyleix Water Treatment Plant has been modernised to improve water treatment processes.

"Works included installation of new ultraviolet (UV) disinfection units and an upgrade of the existing Chlorination system, improving drinking water quality and compliance with water treatment standards.

"These works provide a fully validated treatment barrier for Cryptosporidium, which was the main risk associated with the supply while it was on the RAL. Completion of these works has not only ensured the removal of Abbeyleix water supply from the EPAs RAL, it has also safeguarded the water supply ensuring the delivery of safe, clean drinking water to homes and businesses in Abbeyleix and surrounding areas," said a statement.

James OToole is Asset Operations Lead with Irish Water.

Irish Water is committed to ensuring that all our customers have safe, clean drinking water. This is a significant challenge due to decades of under-investment in our water infrastructure, but we are making steady progress, with an additional 1,800 people in Laois now removed from the Remedial Action List.

Nationally, the numbers of customers on the list continue to fall. Overall 16 supplies have been removed from the list in the past year, serving a total of 790,000 customers. We are working in partnership with Local Authorities to address issues with the supplies which remain on the list and to bring them to a standard where the EPA determines that they can be removed, he said.

Irish Water added that the presence of a supply on the Remedial Action List does not mean the water is unsafe to drink. It claimed that over 99.7% of supplies remain safe to drink and do not present any risk to health. Where drinking water quality deficiencies are found due to Irish Waters improved testing and sampling regime, a Boil Water Notice or Do Not Consume notice may be issued to protect public health.

Irish Water says it has been able to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the performance of Irelands drinking water treatment plants and focus investment where the risk to our customers is highest. Nationally, Irish Water says it is investing 5.2 billion in drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and new infrastructure between 2020 and 2024. Significant improvements in water quality are being achieved year on year by this approach right across the country, it said.
A Chicago police vehicle burns on North State Street after a march and rally to remember the May 25 killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer, in the Loop on May 30, 2020, in Chicago. Timothy ODonnell, 32, pleaded guilty Thursday to a reduced federal charge for setting fire to a Chicago police SUV in the Loop while wearing a Joker clown mask. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

A South Side man pleaded guilty Thursday to a reduced federal charge for setting fire to a Chicago police SUV in the Loop while wearing a Joker clown mask during the chaos and looting that struck the city in 2020.

Timothy ODonnell, 32, entered his plea to one count of interfering with law enforcement during the commission of civil disorder.

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His 17-page plea agreement with prosecutors stated that preliminary sentencing guidelines call for between 3  to 4  years on the reduced charge. He also agreed to pay $58,125 to the Chicago Police Department to cover the cost of the damaged vehicle.

ODonnell had originally been charged with arson, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years behind bars.

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During the virtual hearing, ODonnell, who has been in custody since his arrest in June 2020, told U.S. District Judge Andrea Wood that hes recovered from an earlier COVID-19 infection and currently taking methadone, a common drug for treatment of heroin addiction.

I feel normal, he told the judge.

Federal authorities say this photo shows Timothy O'Donnell near a burning Chicago police vehicle on May 30, 2020, in the 200 block of North State Street. (Federal court document photo)

The images of ODonnell in the Joker mask with flames erupting behind him made him one of the highest profile federal cases to stem from the chaos and looting that struck the city after the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer.

Prosecutors said that a downtown protest had grown violent on the afternoon of May 30, 2020, when ODonnell was seen on video taken by a bystander approaching the police vehicle parked in the 200 block of North State Street, placing a cloth inside the gas tank and lighting it with a lighter.

Other individuals then exacerbated the fire by pouring accelerants on it, Assistant U.S. Attorney James Durkin said in court Thursday. The vehicle was destroyed, he said.

After the squad car burst into flames, ODonnell was captured in a photograph provided by a different witness posing in front of the blaze, according to a criminal complaint filed at the time of ODonnells arrest. Though his face was obscured by the grinning mask, ODonnells distinctive neck tattoo reading PRETTY could clearly be seen in the photo, according to the complaint.

That image  as well as several others  were included in the charging document. Police found the mask in ODonnells bedroom when they searched his apartment in the 700 block of West 19th Street, according to the complaint.

ODonnell later admitted in an interview with law enforcement that he was the one seen in the mask igniting the blaze, the charges alleged.

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His lawyer, Michael Leonard, had challenged that alleged statement in court, arguing that his right to a lawyer had been violated.

But when the judge asked ODonnell on Thursday if it was true hed ignited the blaze, he responded, Yes, it is your honor.

Wood set a sentencing hearing for June 14.

jmeisner@chicagotribune.com
NORRISTOWN, Pa. - Two men have been arrested in connection with the murder of a man in Pottstown that took place in October 2021.

Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin R. Steele and Pottstown Police Chief Mick Markovich said in a release Samir Bentley, 20, and Ahmed Mohammed, 16, both of Philadelphia, were arrested in Greenville, North Carolina, Thursday by U.S. Marshals.

The two were charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, third- degree murder and other related charges in the shooting death of Robert Stiles on East High Street in Pottstown last October.

On Oct. 23, 2021, Pottstown police responded to the 400 block of East High Street around 8:30 a.m. Officers found Stiles lying on the sidewalk, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, according to authorities.

He was later pronounced dead at Reading Hospital, authorities said.

A joint investigation by Montgomery County Detectives and Pottstown Police revealed the homicide was captured on multiple surveillance cameras, which showed that Stiles was being robbed, authorities said.

The video also showed Stiles was grabbed by Mohammed, who pulled him into an area in front of East High Street. Then Bentley and another man who is already in custody, Daijon Harrison, approached. Harrison pulled a gun from his waistband and handed it to Bentley, who shot Stiles three times.

Authorities said the three men then ran to a dark-colored minivan.

The victim was seen discarding a clear plastic bag, which was recovered and found to contain multiple ounces of marijuana, according to authorities.

"These two defendants went looking for the victim, and when they found him, they shot him dead, using a firearm that neither man was legally allowed to possess. It's a chilling murder," Steele said. "We are grateful for the work of the U.S. Marshals, who diligently worked to find these violent murderers and safely get them off the streets."

Bentley and Mohammed will be extradited back to Montgomery County from North Carolina.
The government failed to pay new PRC scales from April to June as there was a delay in issuing necessary GOs (government orders) in this regard. (Twitter)

Hyderabad: State government employees and retired employees are waiting for PRC 2021 (pay revision commission) arrears for the past 10 months.

The government had earlier issued orders in June 2021 stating that these arrears will be paid before the current fiscal 2021-22 ends.

However, employees have not received the arrears even with February salaries paid on first of this month. Employees who retired after April 2021 are also yet to receive arrears while existing employees await arrears from April to June 2021. Employees will receive their last salary for this fiscal on March 1. They are demanding that the government clear arrears with March salary as promised in June 2021.

The state government announced new PRC scales with fitment of 30 per cent (quantum of hike on basic pay) in March 2021 with effect from April 2021.

But the government failed to pay new PRC scales from April to June as there was a delay in issuing necessary GOs (government orders) in this regard.

The Covid-19 second wave in April 2021 and subsequent lockdowns, night curfews and other restrictions imposed from April to June 2021 adversely affected state governments earnings which were cited as reasons for the government delaying new PRC scales.

The state government issued GO No. 51 in June 2021 stating that new PRC scales will be paid to employees from July 2021 and arrears will be cleared before March 2022.

Employees unions met special chief secretary K. Ramakrishna Rao and retired IAS officer N. Siva Sankar, who is a senior consultant in the finance department on Wednesday and requested them to issue orders for payment of arrears immediately.

They brought to the notice of officials that retired employees were facing several hardships as the government failed to pay them PRC arrears as well as leave encashment benefits even after ten months.
Lima, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lima, PERU, January 28, 2022  Credicorp Ltd. announces to its shareholders and the market that its 4Q21 Earnings Release Report will be released on Monday February 07, 2022 after market close.



Credicorps Webcast / Conference Call to discuss such results, will be held on Tuesday February 08, 2022 at 9:30 am ET (9:30 am Lima, Peru time).

The call will be host by: Gianfranco Ferrari - CEO, Cesar Rios - Chief Financial Officer, Francesca Raffo  Chief Innovation Officer, Reynaldo Llosa - Chief Risk Officer, Diego Cavero - Head of Universal Banking, Cesar Rivera - Head of Insurance and Pensions and Investor Relations Team.

We encourage participants to pre-register for the listen-only webcast presentation using the following link:

https://dpregister.com/sreg/10163110/f0c1ec1a46



Callers who pre-register will be given a conference passcode and unique PIN to gain immediate access to the call and bypass the live operator. Participants may pre-register at any time, including up to and after the call start time.

Those unable to pre-register may dial in by calling:

1 844 763 8274 Participant dial in (toll free)

1 412 717 9224 Participant international dial in

Conference ID: Credicorp Conference Call

The webcast will be archived for one year on our investor relations website at:

https://credicorp.gcs-web.com/events-and-presentations/upcoming-events

Credicorp reminds you that we filed our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31st, 2020 (2020 Form 20-F) with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30th, 2021. The 2020 Form 20-F includes audited consolidated financial statements of Credicorp and its subsidiaries as of December 31st, 2019 and 2020 and for the years ended December 31st, 2018, 2019 and 2020 under IFRS. Our 2020 Form 20-F can be downloaded from Credicorps website : https://credicorp.gcs-web.com . Holders of Credicorps securities and any other interested parties may request a hard copy of our 2020 Form 20-F, free of charge, by filling out the form located on the link mail request on Credicorps website.

About Credicorp

Credicorp Ltd. (NYSE: BAP) is the leading financial services holding company in Peru with presence in Chile, Colombia and Bolivia. Credicorp has a diversified business portfolio organized into four lines of business: Universal Banking, through Banco de Credito del Peru  BCP and Banco de Credito de Bolivia; Microfinance, through Mibanco in Peru and Colombia; Insurance & Pension Funds, through Grupo Pacifico and Prima AFP; and Investment Banking & Wealth Management, through Credicorp Capital, Wealth Management at BCP and Atlantic Security Bank.

For further information please contact the IR team:

investorrelations@credicorpperu.com

Investor Relations

Credicorp Ltd.
WASHINGTON  It was the troubling development that Democrats holding a precarious 50-50 Senate majority had long been dreading: One of their colleagues suffered a serious medical episode, leaving them one vote short of a majority with a Supreme Court confirmation vote on the horizon.

Adding to the unnerving news was the fact that the ailing senator was not one of the chambers half-dozen octogenarians who have been the subject of running concern about their health. It was Sen. Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico, a 49-year-old in his first term, who had what his staff described as a stroke.

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I did not know that. Wow, Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., said Tuesday, reflecting the shock he and his colleagues felt after being told of Lujans condition. They quickly dismissed any worry about the state of their legislative agenda, saying such issues paled compared with their concern for their colleagues welfare.

It makes me worried about him, Tester said. Hes too young for that stuff.

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By Wednesday morning, Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., the majority leader, was assuring senators from the floor that Lujan was expected to make a full recovery and that in his absence, the U.S. Senate will continue to move forward in carrying out its business.

A senior aide to Lujan said Wednesday that he remained in the hospital, was recuperating well and would return in four to six weeks barring complications.

There were immediate ramifications, though, considering that Democrats must often produce 50 votes to overcome united Republican opposition, a fairly common situation this year. Some contentious nominations set to be before the Commerce Committee on Wednesday were pulled because the absence of Lujan, who sits on the panel, meant Democrats did not have the votes to advance them over Republican resistance.

Given the even divide, Democratic leaders have already been scheduling the most partisan votes only when they can be sure that all of their senators will be on hand and that Vice President Kamala Harris will be available to break a tie.

As for the Supreme Court vacancy, the situation is not yet dire for Democrats, since no nominee has been announced and the Senate is weeks if not months away from the moment when Lujans vote will be needed if no Republicans back President Joe Bidens pick. Democrats said on Wednesday that based on their understanding of Lujans condition, they would expect him back in time.

We dont anticipate any difficulty, said Sen. Richard J. Durbin, D-Ill., chair of the Judiciary Committee. We just hope he gets back real soon.

But Lujans condition was a stark reminder that Senate Democrats  who serve in an institution where nearly half of all members are over the age of 65  are never more than one sudden illness away from losing their working majority. It prompted some Democrats who have been agitating for Biden to move more swiftly to nominate and confirm a replacement for Justice Stephen Breyer to step up their calls for a pick sooner rather than later, before some other unforeseen event sidelines another Democrat at an inopportune moment.

I would encourage the president to expedite the schedule, said Rep. G.K Butterfield, D-N.C., noting that President Donald Trump and a Republican-led Senate pushed through Justice Amy Coney Barretts nomination in record time, just before the 2020 election. Weve got a 50-50 Senate, and there can be emergencies that can tilt this in one direction or the other.

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How quickly to proceed has already emerged as a source of tension among Democrats.

Some, like Butterfield, are calling for the Senate to follow the rapid pace Republicans set when they confirmed Barrett without a single Democratic vote in a matter of weeks, saying Republicans have established a new precedent from the slower timetables of the past.

But Biden, already facing criticism from some Republicans for promising to consider only Black women, appears to prefer an extended review of candidates, perhaps to show that the White House cast a wide net and was deliberate in making its choice. In addition, Breyer plans to remain on the court through the end of the term in June, negating the need for immediate action.

Schumer, who traveled to the White House on Wednesday to discuss the upcoming nomination with Biden, has said he wants to act with deliberate speed. Durbin, who will oversee the confirmation hearing, said this week that he was seeking a middle ground between moving too precipitously and unnecessarily extending the proceedings.

But if Lujan is not able to vote or another Democratic senator is sidelined, it could present a problem, particularly if Republicans oppose the nominee en masse.

This is yet another complication for Sen. Schumer as he advises the White House on who to pick for the Supreme Court and how to proceed with the nominee as quickly as possible, said Jim Manley, a Democratic strategist who was a top aide to Sen. Harry Reid, the Senate majority leader when the party faced a similar situation in 2006.

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In December of that year, Sen. Tim Johnson, D-S.D., had a cerebral hemorrhage, putting the slim, newly won Democratic majority in jeopardy. Though he was gone for months, Johnson ultimately returned the next fall and won reelection in 2008 despite continuing health struggles.

In another recent case, Sen. Mark Kirk, R-Ill., had a stroke in January 2012 and was gone almost an entire year. No requirement exists for senators to step aside for health reasons if they choose not to, and there are many earlier instances of ill senators being away from Washington for lengthy periods, forcing their colleagues to adjust accordingly.

With Democrats able to approve a nominee themselves with their 50-vote majority, Republicans have so far signaled that they do not intend to dig in too hard against the pick, allowing them to show that Supreme Court confirmations can be conducted without becoming hyperpartisan spectacles. But any uncertainty about the Democratic ability to produce a sure 50 votes could quickly change that calculation and give Republicans more leverage over the nominee and the proceedings themselves.

Based on what has happened in the past, Republicans will tread carefully, not wanting to be seen as trying to gain advantage from the illness of a colleague and recognizing that like many things in the Senate, the tables can quickly turn.

On Wednesday, Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., the minority leader, said that the entire Senate was praying and pulling for Lujan and that it was encouraging to read that our friend and colleague is expected to make a full recovery.

Though Lujans medical issue was more serious, the Senate has already contended with frequent absences this year as members dealt with positive coronavirus tests and family issues, forcing leaders of both parties to keep close track of attendance to guide their scheduling. Lujans condition and the approach of a Supreme Court debate have now put such issues in the spotlight.

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Thats just what we live with every day in a 50-50 Senate, said Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich. We are all human beings, and something can happen to someone at any time.

c.2021 The New York Times Company
Edjah Nduoms parents arrived in the United States from Ghana decades ago with close to nothing. On Wednesday, Nduom stood in the White House to help President Joe Biden unveil a national campaign to end cancer as we know it.

Nduom, MD, a neurosurgeon-scientist at Emory University, was tapped to introduce Biden at a ceremony to relaunch the Cancer Moonshot initiative that began five years ago under President Barack Obamas administration. The announcement highlighted the initiatives new goals to reduce the death rate from cancer by at least 50 percent over the next 25 years and improve the experience of people and their families living with and surviving cancer.

Calling Biden the nations patient advocate in chief, Nduom said the rapid pace of scientific discovery makes this the most exciting moment in the history of our field.

Knowing that there is a president who is throwing the full weight of the presidency behind this effort means that even between big announcements like this one, all levers of government are being pulled to create a brighter future for cancer patients, he said.

For Biden, cancer is deeply personal; he lost his adult son, Beau, to brain cancer in 2015.

We can do this, I promise you, Biden said Wednesday. For all those weve lost; for all those we miss. We can end cancer as we know it. This is a White House presidential priority, period.

Nduom is a neurosurgical oncologist at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, an Emory Brain Health Center neurosurgeon and associate professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at Emory University School of Medicine, where he completed his residency. His research focuses on ways to harness the power of the immune system to fight brain tumors.

Before joining Emory in 2020, Nduom served as Assistant Clinical Investigator in the Surgical Neurology Branch of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke at the National Institutes of Health.

He is a member of the board of directors of the National Brain Tumor Society and a co-founder and diaspora representative of the Society for Neuro-Oncology Sub-Saharan Africa.

Referencing his own roots as an African American, Nduom said that there was a time when he would not have been permitted to do the work he is now doing.

We have a ways to go before harnessing all of the diverse talents of our country, he said. But the progress that we have made means that we are constantly bringing new ideas to this challenge.

In 2016, then-vice president Biden launched the first cancer moonshot in the Obama administration. Winship marked the occasion by hosting a regional summit, which attracted more than 100 clinicians researchers, advocates, public health experts, survivors and caregivers.

Nduoms path to becoming a neurosurgeon and the role he is playing in training the next generation of brain surgeons was recently featured on a PBS episode of Your Fantastic Mind, a show produced by Georgia Public Broadcasting in partnership with Emory.

Watch the full White House event on reigniting the Cancer Moonshot initiative.
U.S. Poultry & Egg Association Recognizes Pic Billingsley with Annual Lamplighter Award

LAUREL, Miss., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sanderson Farms' director of development and engineering, Bob "Pic" Billingsley, has been named a recipient of the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association's annual Lamplighter Award during the 2022 International Production & Processing Expo. The award pays tribute to individuals demonstrating sustained and exemplary service to the poultry and egg industry.

Sanderson Farms Director Earns National Poultry Award

"We value the commitment and support of this year's Lamplighter Award recipients," said Greg Hinton, outgoing chairman for the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association and vice president of sales for Rose Acre Farms. "They have enthusiastically dedicated themselves to contributing to the poultry industry, and we sincerely appreciate their service to the industry."

Billingsley, an employee of Sanderson Farms for over 38 years, has served on the company's executive committee for over three decades and has overseen site selection, design and construction for the last eight state-of-the-art poultry complexes the nation's third largest poultry producer has built. In addition to his role in development and engineering, he serves on the company's corporate compensation committee and crisis management committee.

"An integral member of our company's leadership team for much of his career, it is no surprise to me that Pic has been selected by his peers in the poultry and egg industry for this prestigious honor," said Joe F. Sanderson Jr., chairman of the board and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms. "Pic has not only helped our company grow and develop, but he has also embraced technology and innovation that has been crucial to the development of our industry."

As the Lamplighter Award demonstrates, Billingsley is no stranger to the poultry industry and has dedicated nearly four decades of his career to the success of it, including serving on the board of directors for the award's issuing organization, the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. For numerous terms, he has also served on the board of directors for the Mississippi Poultry Association, including serving as the board's chairman.

Story continues

Founded in 1947, the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is based in Tucker, Georgia and progressively serves its poultry and egg members through research, education, communications and technical services. In addition to Billingsley, four other industry leaders were recognized with the association's lamplighter award, including Dr. Karen Christensen, senior director of animal wellbeing at Tyson Foods; Steve George, president and chief executive officer of Fremont Farms; Warren Howe, vice president of Woodruff & Howe Environmental Engineering; and Steve Woodruff, president and chief executive officer of Woodruff & Howe Environmental Engineering.

"It is such an honor to be recognized among accomplished industry leaders such as these who have contributed so much to the advancement of our industries throughout their careers," said Billingsley. "Working with the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association has been a career highlight for me, which makes this award even more meaningful."

A graduate of Delta State University, Billingsley earned an accounting degree and a Masters of Business Administration degree before joining Sanderson Farms shortly after graduation. Since earning his degrees, he has been inducted into the university's hall of fame as an honored graduate.

Outside of the poultry industry, Billingsley is also avidly involved in educational initiatives and civic organizations. Currently serving on the Laurel Airport Authority's board of directors, he has served many board appointments for the Association for Excellence in Education and the Salvation Army. As a result of his contributions to these organizations, Billingsley was awarded the Jones County School District Parent of the Year and the Robert E. Gaddis Education Award.

About Sanderson Farms

Sanderson Farms, Inc., founded in 1947, is engaged in the production, processing, marketing and distribution of fresh and frozen chicken and other prepared food items. Employing more than 17,000 employees in operations spanning five states and 17 different communities, Sanderson Farms is the third largest poultry producer in the United States. As a company, Sanderson Farms is committed to adopting a fresh approach in everything that we do, not only where products are concerned, but companywide as well. Though the company has grown in size, it still adheres to the same hometown values of honesty, integrity and innovation that were established when the Sanderson family founded the company in 1947. For more information about Sanderson Farms, visit www.sandersonfarms.com.

Cision

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SOURCE Sanderson Farms, Inc.
TREVOSE, Pa., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lannett Company, Inc. ( NYSE: LCI) today reported financial results for its fiscal 2022 second quarter ended December 31, 2021.

"For the quarter, ongoing and increasing competitive pricing pressure across our product offering negatively impacted net sales and gross margin," said Tim Crew, chief executive officer of Lannett. "While we anticipate this pricing environment to persist over the near term, we continue to execute on our core strategies to build our product pipeline, advance our durable insulin and respiratory assets and reduce costs throughout the organization. We also continue to maintain a solid cash position, which was more than $98 million at December 31, 2021.

"Last month, the FDA completed its safety review of the Investigational New Drug (IND) application for our biosimilar insulin glargine and concluded that we may proceed with the proposed clinical investigation. We expect the pivotal clinical trial to commence next month and be completed by early next year. If the trial is successful, we would anticipate filing the Biologics License Application (BLA) shortly thereafter and potentially launching the product by early 2024, if approved by the FDA. Regarding the pending Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for our generic Advair Diskus product, we expect to receive feedback from the FDA later this month.

"Looking ahead, we have revised our guidance down to reflect, in part, a targeted product optimization effort, a delay in the expected launch of a key product, fewer new supply requests anticipated for the balance of this year, as well as the previously mentioned competitive environment for a number of our oral generic products."

Restructuring, Cost Reduction Initiatives - Update

In November 2021, the company announced a restructuring plan to further optimize operations, improve efficiencies and reduce costs to improve competitiveness. The plan is expected to be largely completed by the end of the current fiscal year and generate approximately $20 million of cost savings annually. Thus far, the company has completed the restructuring of its R&D function and targeted headcount reductions.

Second Quarter Financial Results: Fiscal 2022 vs Fiscal 2021

GAAP basis:

Net sales were $86.5 million compared with $133.9 million

compared with Gross profit was $5.7 million , or 7% of net sales. This compares with $0.8 million , or 1% of net sales, which included a $23.2 million inventory write down and $5.0 million to expense the cost to renew a product distribution contract

, or 7% of net sales. This compares with , or 1% of net sales, which included a inventory write down and to expense the cost to renew a product distribution contract Asset impairment charges primarily related to the November 2021 Restructuring Plan and ongoing competitive pressure were $49.4 million . Asset impairment charges were $198.0 million in last year's second quarter

Restructuring Plan and ongoing competitive pressure were . Asset impairment charges were in last year's second quarter Net loss was $81.1 million , or $2.01 per share, compared with $171.9 million , or $4.36 per share

Non-GAAP basis:

Net sales were $86.5 million compared with $133.9 million

compared with Adjusted gross profit was $9.7 million , or 11% of net sales, compared with $31.1 million , or 23% of net sales

, or 11% of net sales, compared with , or 23% of net sales Adjusted interest expense increased to $12.9 million from $10.5 million

from Adjusted net loss was $15.9 million , or $0.39 per share, versus adjusted net income of $3.2 million , or $0.08 per diluted share

, or per share, versus adjusted net income of , or per diluted share Negative adjusted EBITDA was $1.0 million versus adjusted EBITDA of $24.0 million

Guidance for Fiscal 2022

Based on its current outlook, the company revised guidance for fiscal year 2022, as follows:



GAAP Adjusted* Net sales $335 million to $360 million, down from $370 million to $400 million $335 million to $360 million, down from $370 million to $400 million Gross margin % Approximately 10% to 11%, down from approximately 15% to 17% Approximately 14% to 15%, down from approximately 19% to 21% R&D expense $23 million to $26 million, down from $25 million to $28 million $23 million to $26 million, down from $25 million to $28 million SG&A expense $66.5 million to $69.5 million, up from $64 million to $67 million $55 million to $58 million, unchanged Restructuring expense $3 million to $4 million $-- Asset impairment $49.4 million $-- Interest and other Approximately $58 million, unchanged Approximately $52 million, unchanged Effective tax rate Approximately 0% to 5%, unchanged Approximately 23% to 24%, up from 22% to 23% Adjusted EBITDA N/A $0 to $8 million, down from $22 million to $32 million Capital expenditures $10 million to $14 million, unchanged $10 million to $14 million, unchanged

*A reconciliation of Adjusted amounts to most directly comparable GAAP amounts can be found in the attached financial tables.

Conference Call Information and Forward-Looking Statements

Later today, the company will host a conference call at 4:30 p.m. ET to review its results of operations for its fiscal 2022 second quarter ended December 31, 2021. The conference call will be available to interested parties by dialing 888-771-4371 from the U.S. or Canada, or 847-585-4405 from international locations, passcode 50278391. The call will be broadcast via the Internet at www.lannett.com. Listeners are encouraged to visit the website at least 10 minutes prior to the start of the scheduled presentation to register, download and install any necessary audio software. A playback of the call will be archived and accessible on the same website for at least three months.

Discussion during the conference call may include forward-looking statements regarding such topics as, but not limited to, the company's financial status and performance, regulatory and operational developments, and any comments the company may make about its future plans or prospects in response to questions from participants on the conference call.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This news release contains references to Non-GAAP financial measures, including Adjusted EBITDA, which are financial measures that are not prepared in conformity with United States generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP). Management uses these measures internally for evaluating its operating performance. The Company's management believes that the presentation of Non-GAAP financial measures provides useful supplementary information regarding operational performance, because it enhances an investor's overall understanding of the financial results for the Company's core business. Additionally, it provides a basis for the comparison of the financial results for the Company's core business between current, past and future periods. The Company also believes that including Adjusted EBITDA is appropriate to provide additional information to investors. Non-GAAP financial measures should be considered only as a supplement to, and not as a substitute for or as a superior measure to, financial measures prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

Detailed reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are included with this release.

Non-GAAP financial measures exclude, among others, the effects of (1) amortization of purchased intangibles and other purchase accounting entries, (2) restructuring expenses, (3) asset impairment charges, (4) non-cash interest expense, as well as (5) certain other items considered unusual or non-recurring in nature.

ADVAIR DISKUS is a registered trademark of GlaxoSmithKline.

About Lannett Company, Inc.:

Lannett Company, founded in 1942, develops, manufactures, packages, markets and distributes generic pharmaceutical products for a wide range of medical indications  see financial schedule below for net sales by medical indication. For more information, visit the company's website at www.lannett.com.

This news release contains certain statements of a forward-looking nature relating to future events or future business performance. Any such statements, including, but not limited to, the timing related to commencing and successfully completing the pivotal clinical trial, filing the Biologics License Application and successfully launching biosimilar insulin glargine; timing related to receiving FDA approval and successfully launching generic Advair Diskus; the potential material impact of COVID-19 on future financial results; successfully reducing expenses as a result of the restructuring and achieving the financial metrics stated in the company's revised guidance for fiscal 2022, whether expressed or implied, are subject to risks and uncertainties which can cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors which include, but are not limited to, the difficulty in predicting the timing or outcome of FDA or other regulatory approvals or actions, the ability to successfully commercialize products upon approval, including acquired products, and Lannett's estimated or anticipated future financial results, future inventory levels, future competition or pricing, future levels of operating expenses, product development efforts or performance, and other risk factors discussed in the company's Form 10-K and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. These forward-looking statements represent the company's judgment as of the date of this news release. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Contact: Robert Jaffe

Robert Jaffe Co., LLC

(424) 288-4098

FINANCIAL SCHEDULES FOLLOW

LANNETT COMPANY, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands, except share and per share data)







(Unaudited)











December 31, 2021

June 30, 2021













ASSETS









Current assets:







Cash and cash equivalents $ 98,635

$ 93,286 Accounts receivable, net 66,275

98,834 Inventories

105,779

109,545 Income taxes receivable 35,847

35,050 Assets held for sale

12,733

2,678 Other current assets

15,345

14,170 Total current assets 334,614

353,563 Property, plant and equipment, net 143,104

166,674 Intangible assets, net

90,972

137,835 Operating lease right-of-use asset 10,227

10,559 Other assets

16,020

15,106 TOTAL ASSETS

$ 594,937

$ 683,737



























LIABILITIES







Current liabilities:







Accounts payable

$ 25,988

$ 29,585 Accrued expenses

11,206

13,077 Accrued payroll and payroll-related expenses 9,606

10,680 Rebates payable

25,205

19,025 Royalties payable

10,687

13,779 Restructuring liability

620

8 Current operating lease liabilities 2,054

2,045 Other current liabilities 3,885

2,270 Total current liabilities 89,251

90,469 Long-term debt, net

603,484

590,683 Long-term operating lease liabilities 10,554

11,047 Other liabilities

17,808

19,009 TOTAL LIABILITIES

721,097

711,208













STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT





Common stock($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 42,053,623 and 40,913,148 shares issued;





40,500,320 and 39,576,606 shares outstanding at December 31, 2021 and June 30, 2021, respectively) 42

41 Additional paid-in capital 360,765

355,239 Accumulated deficit

(468,193)

(364,766) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (519)

(548) Treasury stock (1,553,303 and 1,336,542 shares at December 31, 2021 and June 30, 2021, respectively) (18,255)

(17,437) Total stockholders' deficit (126,160)

(27,471) TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT $ 594,937

$ 683,737



































LANNETT COMPANY, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)

(In thousands, except share and per share data)

























Three months ended

Six months ended





December 31,

December 31,





2021

2020

2021

2020





















Net sales

$ 86,508

$ 133,920

$ 188,033

$ 260,399

Cost of sales

76,990

124,488

157,998

216,675

Amortization of intangibles

3,808

8,657

7,804

17,246

Gross profit

5,710

775

22,231

26,478

Operating expenses:

















Research and development expenses

4,747

5,644

10,511

12,183

Selling, general and administrative expenses

18,791

13,730

37,696

28,866

Restructuring expenses

891

-

891

4,043

Asset impairment charges

49,361

198,000

49,361

198,000

Total operating expenses

73,790

217,374

98,459

243,092

Operating loss

(68,080)

(216,599)

(76,228)

(216,614)

Other income (expense):

















Investment income

46

43

80

88

Interest expense

(14,430)

(13,496)

(28,654)

(27,982)

Other

11

28

(51)

5

Total other expense

(14,373)

(13,425)

(28,625)

(27,889)

Loss before income tax

(82,453)

(230,024)

(104,853)

(244,503)

Income tax benefit

(1,368)

(58,076)

(1,426)

(66,056)

Net loss

$ (81,085)

$ (171,948)

$ (103,427)

$ (178,447)





















Loss per common share (1):

















Basic

$ (2.01)

$ (4.36)

$ (2.58)

$ (4.55)

Diluted

$ (2.01)

$ (4.36)

$ (2.58)

$ (4.55)





















Weighted average common shares outstanding (1):

















Basic

40,358,127

39,443,441

40,142,974

39,257,211

Diluted

40,358,127

39,443,441

40,142,974

39,257,211





















(1) Effective with the Warrants issued on April 22, 2021, the basic and diluted earnings per share was calculated based on the two-class method.



LANNETT COMPANY, INC. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP REPORTED TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (In thousands, except percentages, share and per share data)































Six months ended December 31, 2021

Net sales Cost of sales Amortization

of intangibles Gross Profit Gross

Margin % R&D expenses SG&A

expenses Restructuring

expenses Asset

impairment

charges Operating

loss Other expense Loss before

income tax Income tax

benefit Net loss Diluted loss

per share (j)





GAAP Reported $ 188,033 $ 157,998 $ 7,804 $ 22,231 12% $ 10,511 $ 37,696 $ 891 $ 49,361 $ (76,228) $ (28,625) $ (104,853) $ (1,426) $ (103,427) $ (2.58) Adjustments:





























Amortization of intangibles (a) - - (7,804) 7,804

- - - - 7,804 - 7,804 - 7,804

Cody API business (b) - (50) - 50

(6) (270) - - 326 - 326 - 326

Depreciation on capitalized software costs (c) - - - -

- (2,102) - - 2,102 - 2,102 - 2,102

Restructuring expenses (d) - - - -

- - (891) - 891 - 891 - 891

Distribution agreement renewal costs (e) - - - -

- (219) - - 219 - 219 - 219

Asset impairment charges (f) - - - -

- - - (49,361) 49,361 - 49,361 - 49,361

Non-cash interest (g) - - - -

- - - - - 2,959 2,959 - 2,959

Other (h) - (177) - 177

(1) (5,944) - - 6,122 - 6,122 - 6,122

Tax adjustments (i) - - - -

- - - - - - - (7,162) 7,162

































Non-GAAP Adjusted $ 188,033 $ 157,771 $ - $ 30,262 16% $ 10,504 $ 29,161 $ - $ - $ (9,403) $ (25,666) $ (35,069) $ (8,588) $ (26,481) $ (0.66)































(a) To exclude amortization of purchased intangible assets primarily related to the acquisition of KUPI

















(b) To exclude the operating results of the ceased Cody API business





















(c) To exclude depreciation on previously capitalized software integration costs associated with the KUPI acquisition















(d) To exclude expenses associated with the 2021 Restructuring Plan





















(e) To exclude the consideration recorded to renew the Company's distribution agreement with Recro Gainesville LLC















(f) To exclude asset impairment charges primarily related to the KUPI product rights intangible assets and the facility and certain equipment at Silarx in Carmel, NY









(g) To exclude non-cash interest expense associated with debt issuance costs



















(h) To primarily exclude the reimbursement of legal costs associated with a distribution agreement, one-time employee retention awards and separation costs related to the Company's former Chief Information Officer



(i) To exclude the tax effect of the pre-tax adjustments included above at applicable tax rates

















(j) The weighted average share number for the six months ended December 31, 2021 is 40,142,974 for GAAP and non-GAAP loss per share calculations.













































LANNETT COMPANY, INC. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP REPORTED TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (In thousands, except percentages, share and per share data)































Six months ended December 31, 2020

Net sales Cost of sales Amortization

of intangibles Gross

Profit Gross

Margin % R&D expenses SG&A

expenses Restructuring

expenses Asset

impairment

charges Operating

income

(loss) Other loss Income

(loss) before

income tax Income tax

expense

(benefit) Net

income

(loss) Diluted

earnings

(loss)

per share (k)





GAAP Reported $ 260,399 $ 216,675 $ 17,246 $ 26,478 10% $ 12,183 $ 28,866 $ 4,043 $ 198,000 $ (216,614) $ (27,889) $ (244,503) $ (66,056) $ (178,447) $ (4.55) Adjustments:





























Amortization of intangibles (a) - - (17,246) 17,246

- - - - 17,246 - 17,246 - 17,246

Cody API business (b) - (158) - 158

(5) (455) - - 618 - 618 - 618

Depreciation on capitalized software costs (c) - - - -

- (2,102) - - 2,102 - 2,102 - 2,102

Restructuring expenses (d) - - - -

- - (4,043) - 4,043 - 4,043 - 4,043

Asset impairment charges (e) - - - -

- - - (198,000) 198,000 - 198,000 - 198,000

Write-downs for excess and obsolete inventory (f) - (16,623) - 16,623

- - - - 16,623 - 16,623

16,623

Distribution agreement renewal costs (g) - (4,966) - 4,966

- - - - 4,966 - 4,966

4,966

Non-cash interest (h) - - - -

- - - - - 6,250 6,250 - 6,250

Other (i) - - - -

- (1,504) - - 1,504 - 1,504 - 1,504

Tax adjustments (j) - - - -

- - - - - - - 67,453 (67,453)

































Non-GAAP Adjusted $ 260,399 $ 194,928 $ - $ 65,471 25% $ 12,178 $ 24,805 $ - $ - $ 28,488 $ (21,639) $ 6,849 $ 1,397 $ 5,452 $ 0.13































(a) To exclude amortization of purchased intangible assets primarily related to the acquisition of KUPI















(b) To exclude the operating results of the ceased Cody API business



















(c) To exclude depreciation on previously capitalized software integration costs associated with the KUPI acquisition















(d) To exclude the costs associated with the decommissioning and shutdown of the Philadelphia manufacturing and distribution sites













(e) To exclude the federally mandated branded prescription drug fee related to Levothyroxine, a product the Company no longer sells













(f) To exclude write-downs for excess and obsolete inventory related to the discontinuance of certain product lines















(g) To exclude the consideration recorded to renew the Company's distribution agreement with Recro Gainesville LLC















(h) To exclude non-cash interest expense associated with debt issuance costs



















(i) To primarily exclude the reimbursement of legal costs associated with a distribution agreement

















(j) To exclude the tax effect of the pre-tax adjustments included above at applicable tax rates

















(k) The weighted average share number for the six months ended December 31, 2020 is 39,257,211 for GAAP and 40,915,504 for the non-GAAP earnings (loss) per share calculations









LANNETT COMPANY, INC. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP REPORTED TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (In thousands, except percentages, share and per share data)































Three months ended December 31, 2021

Net sales Cost of sales Amortization

of intangibles Gross Profit Gross

Margin % R&D expenses SG&A

expenses Restructuring

expenses Asset

impairment

charges Operating

loss Other expense Loss before

income tax Income tax

benefit Net loss Diluted loss

per share (i)





GAAP Reported $ 86,508 $ 76,990 $ 3,808 $ 5,710 7% $ 4,747 $ 18,791 $ 891 $ 49,361 $ (68,080) $ (14,373) $ (82,453) $ (1,368) $ (81,085) $ (2.01) Adjustments:





























Amortization of intangibles (a) - - (3,808) 3,808

- - - - 3,808 - 3,808 - 3,808

Cody API business (b) - (17) - 17

- (257) - - 274 - 274 - 274

Depreciation on capitalized software costs (c) - - - -

- (1,051) - - 1,051 - 1,051 - 1,051

Restructuring expenses (d) - - - -

- - (891) - 891 - 891 - 891

Asset impairment charges (e) - - - -

- - - (49,361) 49,361 - 49,361 - 49,361

Non-cash interest (f) - - - -

- - - - - 1,520 1,520 - 1,520

Other (g) - (177) - 177

(1) (3,525) - - 3,703 - 3,703 - 3,703

Tax adjustments (h) - - - -

- - - - - - - (4,588) 4,588

































Non-GAAP Adjusted $ 86,508 $ 76,796 $ - $ 9,712 11% $ 4,746 $ 13,958 $ - $ - $ (8,992) $ (12,853) $ (21,845) $ (5,956) $ (15,889) $ (0.39)































(a) To exclude amortization of purchased intangible assets primarily related to the acquisition of KUPI

















(b) To exclude the operating results of the ceased Cody API business





















(c) To exclude depreciation on previously capitalized software integration costs associated with the KUPI acquisition















(d) To exclude expenses associated with the 2021 Restructuring Plan





















(e) To exclude asset impairment charges primarily related to the KUPI product rights intangible assets and the facility and certain equipment at Silarx in Carmel, NY









(f) To exclude non-cash interest expense associated with debt issuance costs



















(g) To primarily exclude the reimbursement of legal costs associated with a distribution agreement, one-time employee retention awards and separation costs related to the Company's former Chief Information Officer





(h) To exclude the tax effect of the pre-tax adjustments included above at applicable tax rates

















(i) The weighted average share number for the three months ended December 31, 2021 is 40,358,127 for GAAP and non-GAAP loss per share calculations.













































LANNETT COMPANY, INC. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP REPORTED TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (In thousands, except percentages, share and per share data)





























Three months ended December 31, 2020

Net sales Cost of sales Amortization

of intangibles Gross Profit Gross

Margin % R&D expenses SG&A

expenses Restructuring

expenses Operating

income

(loss) Other expense Income (loss)

before

income tax Income tax

expense

(benefit) Net income

(loss) Diluted

earnings

(loss) per

share (j)





GAAP Reported $ 133,920 $ 124,488 $ 8,657 $ 775 1% $ 5,644 $ 13,730 $ 198,000 $ (216,599) $ (13,425) $ (230,024) $ (58,076) $ (171,948) $ (4.36) Adjustments:



























Amortization of intangibles (a) - - (8,657) 8,657

- - - 8,657 - 8,657 - 8,657

Cody API business (b) - (84) - 84

(3) (28) - 115 - 115 - 115

Depreciation on capitalized software costs (c) - - - -

- (1,051) - 1,051 - 1,051 - 1,051

Asset impairment charges (d) - - - -

- - (198,000) 198,000 - 198,000 - 198,000

Write-downs for excess and obsolete inventory (e) - (16,623) - 16,623

- - - 16,623 - 16,623 - 16,623

Distribution agreement renewal costs (f) - (4,966) - 4,966

- - - 4,966 - 4,966 - 4,966

Non-cash interest (g) - - - -

- - - - 2,973 2,973 - 2,973

Other (h) - - - -

- (553) - 553 - 553 - 553

Tax adjustments (i) - - - -

- - - - - - 57,784 (57,784)































Non-GAAP Adjusted $ 133,920 $ 102,815 $ - $ 31,105 23% $ 5,641 $ 12,098 $ - $ 13,366 $ (10,452) $ 2,914 $ (292) $ 3,206 $ 0.08





























(a) To exclude amortization of purchased intangible assets primarily related to the acquisition of KUPI















(b) To exclude the operating results of the ceased Cody API business



















(c) To exclude depreciation on previously capitalized software integration costs associated with the KUPI acquisition













(d) To exclude asset impairment charges primarily related to the KUPI product rights intangible assets















(e) To exclude write-downs for excess and obsolete inventory related to the discontinuance of certain product lines













(f) To exclude the consideration recorded to renew the Company's distribution agreement with Recro Gainesville LLC













(g) To exclude non-cash interest expense associated with debt issuance costs

















(i) To exclude the tax effect of the pre-tax adjustments included above at applicable tax rates















(j) The weighted average share number for the three months ended December 31, 2020 is 39,443,441 for GAAP and 41,074,706 for the non-GAAP earnings (loss) per share calculations





































LANNETT COMPANY, INC. RECONCILIATION OF NET LOSS TO ADJUSTED EBITDA (UNAUDITED) ($ in thousands)









Three months ended



December 31, 2021





Net loss

$ (81,085)





Interest expense

14,430 Depreciation and amortization

9,286 Income tax benefit

(1,368) EBITDA

(58,737)





Share-based compensation

2,309 Inventory write-down

1,215 Asset impairment charges (a)

49,361 Investment income

(46) Other non-operating expense

(11) Restructuring expenses

891 Reimbursement of legal costs (b)

2,900 Other (c)

1,077 Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP)

$ (1,041)

(a) To exclude asset impairment charges primarily related to the KUPI product rights intangible assets and the facility and certain equipment at Silarx in Carmel, NY (b) To exclude the reimbursement of legal costs associated with a distribution agreement (c) To primarily exclude one-time employee retention awards and separation costs related to the Company's former Chief Information Officer

























LANNETT COMPANY, INC. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) ($ in millions)













Fiscal Year 2022 Guidance















Non-GAAP







GAAP

Adjustments

Adjusted





















Net sales

$335 - $360

-

$335 - $360



Gross margin percentage

approx. 10% to 11%

4% (a) approx. 14% to 15%



R&D expense

$23 - $26

-

$23 - $26



SG&A expense

$66.5 - $69.5

($11.5) (b) $55 - $58



Restructuring expense

$3 - $4

($3 - $4) (c) -



Asset impairment charges

$49.4

($49.4) (d) -



Interest and other

approx. $58

($6) (e) approx. $52



Effective tax rate

approx. 0% to 5%

-

approx. 23% to 24%



Adjusted EBITDA

N/A

N/A

$0 - $8



Capital expenditures

$10 - $14

-

$10 - $14























(a) The adjustment primarily reflects amortization of purchased intangible assets related to the acquisition of Kremers Urban Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ("KUPI")







(b) The adjustment primarily excludes depreciation on previously capitalized software integration costs associated with the KUPI acquisition and the reimbursement of legal costs associated with a distribution agreement



(c) To exclude expenses associated with the 2021 Restructuring Plan



(d) To exclude asset impairment charges primarily related to the KUPI product rights intangible assets and the facility and certain equipment at

Silarx in Carmel, NY



(e) The adjustment reflects non-cash interest expense associated with debt issuance costs









LANNETT COMPANY, INC. RECONCILIATION OF NET LOSS TO ADJUSTED EBITDA (UNAUDITED) ($ in millions)









Fiscal Year 2022 Guidance

Low

High







Net loss $ (166.4)

$ (158.0)







Interest expense 58.0

58.0 Depreciation and amortization 34.0

36.0 Income taxes -

(8.0) EBITDA (74.4)

(72.0)







Share-based compensation 9.0

9.0 Inventory write-down 7.0

8.0 Asset impairment charges (a) 49.4

49.4 Restructuring expenses (b) 3.0

4.0 Reimbursement of legal costs (c) 5.0

7.0 Other (d) 1.0

2.6 Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) $ -

$ 8.0









(a) To exclude asset impairment charges primarily related to the KUPI product rights intangible assets and the facility and certain equipment at Silarx in Carmel, NY (b) To exclude expenses associated with the 2021 Restructuring Plan (c) To exclude the reimbursement of legal costs associated with a distribution agreement (d) To primarily exclude one-time employee retention awards and separation costs related to the Company's former Chief Information Officer

LANNETT COMPANY, INC. NET SALES BY MEDICAL INDICATION

















Three months ended

Six months ended ($ in thousands) December 31,

December 31, Medical Indication 2021

2020

2021

2020 Analgesic $ 3,919

$ 3,572

$ 9,233

$ 6,692 Anti-Psychosis 2,095

13,317

5,810

26,345 Cardiovascular 9,753

16,336

23,853

36,050 Central Nervous System 22,340

24,614

45,125

47,139 Endocrinology 8,297

9,496

16,142

12,729 Gastrointestinal 14,023

18,575

29,263

35,675 Infectious Disease 6,520

23,044

19,035

44,976 Migraine 4,446

6,083

9,131

15,773 Respiratory/Allergy/Cough/Cold 1,868

2,267

4,982

3,693 Urinary 1,164

1,361

2,340

2,819 Other 9,111

8,410

18,287

16,044 Contract Manufacturing revenue 2,972

6,845

4,832

12,464 Net Sales $ 86,508

$ 133,920

$ 188,033

$ 260,399

















SOURCE Lannett Company, Inc.
A group of students poses with an I Love ISB sign. (Photo: By arrangement)

Hyderabad: The average pay package offered to students of Indian School of Business (ISB) in the class of 2022 from both Hyderabad and Mohali campuses was Rs 34.07 lakh. It is 20.78 per cent more than last year.

ISB has concluded campus placements for the Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGP), class of 2022. A total of 270 companies made 2,066 acceptable offers at the end of the placement week.

The average accepted CTC of `34.07 lakh is an increase compared to last year's CTC of Rs 28.21 lakh during the placement week, and is also the highest ever recorded at the institute. The differential between pre-ISB and post-ISB salary stands at 173.67 per cent. The acceptable offer yield per company stood at 7.68.

About 36.6 per cent of the offers were made by consulting firms, while 26 per cent offers were made from the IT/ITES/Product and Technology industry. Other industries that made offers include BFSI, FMCG/Retail and Pharma/Healthcare.

Prominent consulting firms that made offers included McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company India Pvt. Ltd., Boston Consulting Group, Deloitte India, among others. Some prominent names that hired in the IT/ITES/Product and Technology space were Google, Microsoft, Flipkart, Uber, Cisco, Tata Digital, Razor Pay, Myntra, Jio Platforms, Ola Electric, Zynga, Nykaa, Dream11 and Paytm.

ISB has 39 per cent women students in the class, and 41 per cent of offers were made to them.

The Class of 2022 with 929 students is the highest-class size for any MBA or equivalent programme in India and is among the world's top 10 class sizes.

Professor Ramabhadran Thirumalai, Deputy Dean  Academic Programmes, ISB, said, Established conglomerates and startups alike have made ISB their campus of choice when scouting for high-quality talent. One of the many reasons recruiters like our students is their ability to get things done.

ISB follows an integrated system of placements process for its two campuses at Mohali and Hyderabad.

Due to the pandemic, the entire process was conducted in a virtual mode.
LAUREL, Miss., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sanderson Farms' director of development and engineering, Bob "Pic" Billingsley, has been named a recipient of the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association's annual Lamplighter Award during the 2022 International Production & Processing Expo. The award pays tribute to individuals demonstrating sustained and exemplary service to the poultry and egg industry.

Sanderson Farms Director Earns National Poultry Award

"We value the commitment and support of this year's Lamplighter Award recipients," said Greg Hinton, outgoing chairman for the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association and vice president of sales for Rose Acre Farms. "They have enthusiastically dedicated themselves to contributing to the poultry industry, and we sincerely appreciate their service to the industry."

Billingsley, an employee of Sanderson Farms for over 38 years, has served on the company's executive committee for over three decades and has overseen site selection, design and construction for the last eight state-of-the-art poultry complexes the nation's third largest poultry producer has built. In addition to his role in development and engineering, he serves on the company's corporate compensation committee and crisis management committee.

"An integral member of our company's leadership team for much of his career, it is no surprise to me that Pic has been selected by his peers in the poultry and egg industry for this prestigious honor," said Joe F. Sanderson Jr., chairman of the board and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms. "Pic has not only helped our company grow and develop, but he has also embraced technology and innovation that has been crucial to the development of our industry."

As the Lamplighter Award demonstrates, Billingsley is no stranger to the poultry industry and has dedicated nearly four decades of his career to the success of it, including serving on the board of directors for the award's issuing organization, the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. For numerous terms, he has also served on the board of directors for the Mississippi Poultry Association, including serving as the board's chairman.

Founded in 1947, the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is based in Tucker, Georgia and progressively serves its poultry and egg members through research, education, communications and technical services. In addition to Billingsley, four other industry leaders were recognized with the association's lamplighter award, including Dr. Karen Christensen, senior director of animal wellbeing at Tyson Foods; Steve George, president and chief executive officer of Fremont Farms; Warren Howe, vice president of Woodruff & Howe Environmental Engineering; and Steve Woodruff, president and chief executive officer of Woodruff & Howe Environmental Engineering.

"It is such an honor to be recognized among accomplished industry leaders such as these who have contributed so much to the advancement of our industries throughout their careers," said Billingsley. "Working with the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association has been a career highlight for me, which makes this award even more meaningful."

A graduate of Delta State University, Billingsley earned an accounting degree and a Masters of Business Administration degree before joining Sanderson Farms shortly after graduation. Since earning his degrees, he has been inducted into the university's hall of fame as an honored graduate.

Outside of the poultry industry, Billingsley is also avidly involved in educational initiatives and civic organizations. Currently serving on the Laurel Airport Authority's board of directors, he has served many board appointments for the Association for Excellence in Education and the Salvation Army. As a result of his contributions to these organizations, Billingsley was awarded the Jones County School District Parent of the Year and the Robert E. Gaddis Education Award.

About Sanderson Farms

Sanderson Farms, Inc., founded in 1947, is engaged in the production, processing, marketing and distribution of fresh and frozen chicken and other prepared food items. Employing more than 17,000 employees in operations spanning five states and 17 different communities, Sanderson Farms is the third largest poultry producer in the United States. As a company, Sanderson Farms is committed to adopting a fresh approach in everything that we do, not only where products are concerned, but companywide as well. Though the company has grown in size, it still adheres to the same hometown values of honesty, integrity and innovation that were established when the Sanderson family founded the company in 1947. For more information about Sanderson Farms, visit www.sandersonfarms.com.

SOURCE Sanderson Farms, Inc.
ST. LOUIS  The St. Louis region froze to a near standstill Thursday as the second day of a major winter storm dumped several additional inches of snow, leaving many unable to travel and hunkered down at home.

Hours of precipitation laid a blanket of snow atop icy streets, and wind gusts blew some of it back onto recently plowed interstates. Frigid temperatures rendered some chemical de-icing treatments ineffective.

Snowfall by about 4 p.m. Thursday ranged from about 6 inches in southern parts of the St. Louis metro area to about 10 inches in the western suburbs, said Ben Herzog of the National Weather Service.

The snowfall was expected to taper off Thursday night, Herzog said, although another inch or so of snow was possible in parts of the region through the overnight hours.

Crews worked around the clock to manage it, but with temperatures expected to stay below freezing into the weekend, forecasters said the snow will likely stick around.

If you can stay home again (on Friday) please do so, said Trooper Logan Bolton, a spokesman for the Missouri Highway Patrol. Thats going to give them the room they need to get the roadways safe.

The light, powdery snow means that snow is blowing back onto roadways that have already been plowed, said Bob Becker, St. Louis district maintenance engineer for the Missouri Department of Transportation.

There are some roads out there that weve been across that look like we havent been because the snow has drifted, Becker said Thursday afternoon. Thats a big concern.

Becker said low temperatures overnight will make road chemicals less effective, so crews will focus on pushing snow off the roads before attempting to treat them again after sunrise Friday.

But while road crews worked, residents across the region bundled up and tried to make the best of it.

Things were mostly quiet in the Benton Park neighborhood aside from the occasional car spinning its wheels in the snow.

Fortunately for some local birds, Erica Threnn, a school registrar, walked to Benton Park with birdseed to bail out a group of hungry geese and ducks. They swam over promptly to greet her.

They dont fly away because they know so many people in this neighborhood will feed them, Threnn said. And they know crazy people like me will feed them even when theres a foot of snow on the ground.

A few blocks north, Blues City Deli owner Vince Valenza was working on feeding hungry humans.

Valenza said he decided to give it a whirl and open despite the snow  telling employees that there was no pressure to brave the elements and make it to work.

Valenza got plenty of support from a crew of about six staffing the kitchen and had a slow but steady stream of patrons filing into the restaurant ahead of the lunch rush.

Theres always people in the neighborhood who are out and about, Valenza said. Maybe theyve got cabin fever a little.

A little to the southwest, in Lindenwood Park, a curly dog named Watson jumped through snow piles as Lindsey Perkins and her husband, John Perkins, prepared to walk to meet their five children, ages 8 to 16, who were sledding nearby.

Weve lived here 15 years, and this is close to the most snow we ever remember getting, Lindsey Perkins said.

John Perkins owns Juniper, a southern restaurant in the Central West End. He said his crew served takeout meals Wednesday but opted to take a snow day Thursday.

It wasnt a hard decision to close today when youre in St. Louis, he said. We freak out at half an inch.

When the couple reached the sledding spot in Lindenwood Park, about a dozen kids whipped down the hill and tried to come up with new sledding tricks as the snow fell around them.

This is the only thing were planning to do today, said Matt Carril, who along with his wife, Stacie, were watching their two sons, ages 9 and 7, sled not far from their home. We are going to stay in the house the rest of the day for sure.

In the Northampton neighborhood, David Harris, 22, fielded calls from customers and helped them schedule appointments at Tire Choice Auto Service Center, 3501 South Kingshighway. He said he felt bad because some customers were calling with tire concerns, after realizing theirs werent in such good shape after the bad weather arrived.

You want to be able to help, but you cant, Harris said.

Down the road on Oleatha Avenue, Haider Al-Khuzai, 47, was shoveling the front steps of the duplex he lives in, and his daughter, Aliaah, 8, was playing in the snow.

We tried to make a snowman yesterday but we could not build it because of the ice, Al-Khuzai said as his daughter made snow angels. So hopefully we will be able to today.

Others across the region braved the elements with occasionally disastrous results.

Around 11:45 a.m., St. Charles County law enforcement, fire departments and EMS responded to a crash on Interstate 70 between Lake Saint Louis Boulevard and Bryan Road. Five vehicles, including at least three semitrailers, had crashed. One person was sent to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, a St. Charles County Ambulance District spokesman said.

Both the Missouri and Illinois transportation departments reported lane closures, snow-covered roads and accidents throughout the day and into the evening, while law enforcement agencies cautioned people not to venture out Friday morning unless absolutely necessary.

Overall, agencies including the Missouri Highway Patrol and St. Charles County Ambulance District said they were pleased to have manageable call volumes Wednesday and Thursday.

We really applaud our residents, said ambulance district spokesman Kyle Gaines. People have really heeded the warnings to stay off the roads, stay indoors.

Many people didnt have a reason to venture out anyway.

Most businesses, schools and government offices that announced closures Wednesday remained shut through at least Thursday.

Schnucks and Dierbergs markets, which opened for several hours Thursday, opted to close early after snow kept falling.

Meanwhile, more than 280 flights into and out of St. Louis were grounded, likely due to the weather, according to the fight tracking website FlightAware. Metro Transit continued to report delays for MetroBuses and reduced capacity on MetroLink trains.

Erin Heffernan, Austin Huguelet, Janelle ODea and Bryce Gray of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report.
Hyderabad: Keeping in view the recent security breach in Punjab, the Telangana police will deploy at least 7,000 police personnel, including Central teams as part of the security arrangements for Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the city on Saturday.

As precautionary measures, the police officials have special road connection from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGAI) to Muchintal where the Prime Minister will unveil the 216-feet tall Ramanuja statue at the Jiva Srirama Nagar of Muchintal.

The officials from the Prime Minister Office (PMO) have got in touch with the state police officials and senior security officers by providing route maps of Prime Ministers and security arrangements. It was also reported that the PMO officials have given proper security suggestions following the Punjab incident.

The trial run of vehicle convoys and choppers were done on Thursday at the RGIA to Muchintal twice. The police have also obtained a weather report from officials following the chopper trial. The sources said that the three-tier security system was deployed at the Jiva ashram and tight vigil will be kept at the place in view of the Prime Ministers programme.

It was also reported that the Telangana police has provided the guest list of who will attend the Prime Ministers programme at Muchintal and the police officials have sent the details of guests to the PMO for their consideration.

The Jiva ashram would be completely taken over by the Prime Ministers security personnel and an IPS officer from the state would coordinate with the Prime Ministers security wing.

The authority has also planted saplings on either side of newly laid connecting road from RGIA to Outer Ring Road (ORR) to proceed to Muchintal and erected welcome boards.
State government employees of various departments on the way to BRTS road to participate in Chalo Vijayawada, being organised by PRC Sadhana Samithi, in Vijayawada. (Photo: PTI)

Vijayawada: Leaders of the PRC Struggle Committee announced the start of the indefinite strike by government employees in Andhra Pradesh from midnight, February 6. They would also start a non-cooperation movement from Feb 5 seeking cancellation of the new PRC and the solving of other issues.

Union leaders said that the government tried to thwart their protest rally with threats of Covid-linked restrictions but the employees made it a big success. They said the employees did not wish to have conflicts with the government but urged the government to fulfill their demands to avoid inconvenience to the people due to the indefinite strike.

PRCSC leader Venkateswarlu said even the police backed the Chalo Vijayawada rally. He refuted the allegation of YSRC leaders that vested interests were behind the agitation. The employees will start a non-cooperation movement from February 5 before starting the indefinite strike from February 7, he said.

Union leader Bandi Srinivasa said the government will be held responsible for any inconvenience the agitation caused to the people. The staff of the electricity department and the RTC too would join the strike, he said. He demanded Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to conduct fresh talks with the government employees to resolve issues.

Another strike-prompter Suryanarayana alleged that the government officials were played with figures vis-a-vis PRC and salaries.

Union leader Venkatramireddy said the employees are fighting not only for a new PRC but also for the cancellation of Contributory Pension Scheme and resolving the issues of APSRTC and Village and Ward Secretariat employees.
New Delhi/Hyderabad: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Thursday said he was fired upon while he was heading for Delhi after campaigning for his party candidates in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls. No one was injured in the incident that took place at about 6 pm.

Three to four rounds of bullets were fired upon my vehicle near Chhajarsi toll plaza when I was returning from an election-related event in Kithaur, Meerut. The incident was a well-planned conspiracy, but I escaped without injuries, Owaisi tweeted, adding, We are all safe. Alhamdu'llah.

The Chhajarsi toll plaza is on the Hapur-Ghaziabad stretch of National Highway 24, and is about 55 km from Ghaziabad.

According to an additional SP of Hapur, police arrested one Sachin, a resident of Noida, following the incident. "A 9 mm pistol was recovered from him and he was taken into police custody. An investigation is underway, the ASP said.

We heard a huge bang. One was firing from a 90-degree angle and another was right opposite my door. Behind my car were my party members accompanying me in another car. They hit one of the shooters, said the AIMIM leader.

He said the tyres of his vehicle were punctured and he left for Delhi in another vehicle.

Owaisi requested the Election Commission of India to order an independent inquiry into the incident. "It is the responsibility of the UP government and the Modi government to conduct an inquiry. I will also meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on this matter," said Owaisi, who is also the Hyderabad MP, after tweeting the video clippings from the toll plaza.

In Hyderabad, as the news spread there was mild tension at the AIMIM head office at Darusalam but party leaders put on a brave front. MIM senior leader and MLA Mumtaz Ahmed Khan said, "We will not be cowed down by such attacks on our leader." He said such attacks were not new to the party and that it had made many sacrifices during the last 65 years.

Ahmed Khan alleged that the partys opponents  especially the communal forces  were afraid of the MIMs growing popularity. The public meetings being addressed by Owaisi in Uttar Pradesh were drawing lakhs of people and the partys opponents were unable to digest this, he reasoned.

Additional police forces were deployed in all the cross-roads in sensitive Mallapally, Vijaynagar Colony, Darusalam, Nampally etc.

Party activists rushed in to hear more about the firing on Owaisis convoy in Meerut.

Some of them were worried that their leader was injured. They got aggressive when cops asked them to vacate the ground. A little later they left the party office after confirming that Owaisi was safe.

Meanwhile, the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samiti in Telangana, close to the AIMIM, condemned the attack. TRS working president and IT minister Rama Rao responded via a Tweet, Glad you are safe Asad bhai. Outrageous & utterly reprehensible. Strongly condemn this act of cowardice.

Meanwhile, late at night, AIMIM floor leader Akbaruddin Owaisi and Malakpet MLA Ahmed Balala reached Delhi to take stock of the situation.
(Newser)  An overnight raid in Syria by US special-operations forces resulted in the death of the Islamic State's leader, but it wasn't American forces who killed Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi. The US says the ISIS commander detonated a bomb as the raid unfolded at his compound, deliberately blowing himself up along with members of his family, reports the BBC. President Biden called it a "final act of desperate cowardice." It's the same way previous ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi died in 2019.

Civilian deaths: Rescue workers say at least 13 people were killed in the raid, including women and children, reports the New York Times. The US says it evacuated 10 civilians after a warning issued via loudspeaker before commandos closed in. To the degree theres loss of innocent lives, its caused by Abdullah and his lieutenants, says Pentagon spokesman John F. Kirby.

The leader: Al-Qurayshi kept a low profile. The AP reports that his real name was Amir Mohammed Saeed Abdul-Rahman al-Mawla. He was believed to be in his mid-40s and from the northern Iraqi town of Tel Afar, and he graduated from the University of Mosul with a degree in Islamic law. The AP adds that was "believed to have played a key role in one of (the Islamic State's) most horrific atrocities: the enslavement of thousands of women from Iraqs Yazidi religious minority."

Al-Qurayshi kept a low profile. The AP reports that his real name was Amir Mohammed Saeed Abdul-Rahman al-Mawla. He was believed to be in his mid-40s and from the northern Iraqi town of Tel Afar, and he graduated from the University of Mosul with a degree in Islamic law. The AP adds that was "believed to have played a key role in one of (the Islamic State's) most horrific atrocities: the enslavement of thousands of women from Iraqs Yazidi religious minority." Biden: Last nights operation took a major terrorist leader off the battlefield, and it sent a strong message to terrorists around the world: We will come after you and find you, Biden said Thursday, per the Washington Post.

Last nights operation took a major terrorist leader off the battlefield, and it sent a strong message to terrorists around the world: We will come after you and find you, Biden said Thursday, per the Washington Post. Praise, and a slam: The mission drew bipartisan praise from members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. This raid, ordered by President Biden and carried out by brave US forces, dealt a significant blow to ISIS, said the Democratic chairman, Sen. Jack Reed. GOP Sen. James M. Inhofe also praised the troops but added: "This single operation is not a substitute for an effective, comprehensive counterterrorism plan or for holding ISIS-K accountable for the Abbey Gate attack (in Afghanistan). In fact, it raises questions about the Biden administrations counterterrorism strategy."

The mission drew bipartisan praise from members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. This raid, ordered by President Biden and carried out by brave US forces, dealt a significant blow to ISIS, said the Democratic chairman, Sen. Jack Reed. GOP Sen. James M. Inhofe also praised the troops but added: "This single operation is not a substitute for an effective, comprehensive counterterrorism plan or for holding ISIS-K accountable for the Abbey Gate attack (in Afghanistan). In fact, it raises questions about the Biden administrations counterterrorism strategy." A caveat: As the Times notes, the details of such raids often take weeks or longer to clarify, even if the Pentagon does immediately deem them successful.

(Read more ISIS stories.)
A former commissioner of police, Emmanuel Ojukwu, says Nigerian government officials have compromised the prosecution of terrorists in the country.

Mr Ojukwu spoke against the background of a disclosure by the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, who said that the federal government had uncovered 96 financiers of terrorism in the country.

Featuring on Channels Television evening programme, Politics Today, on Thursday, Mr Ojukwu said the governments lethargic disposition towards putting terrorism financiers on trial, demonstrates how some top public officials compromised the efforts aimed at bringing the felons to justice. He did not mention names.

The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, had for the umpteenth time disclosed that the government was preparing suspects linked to terrorism financing for prosecution, without any concrete action seen to have been taken.

Mr Ojukwu, who once served as the police spokesperson at the Force headquarters, Abuja, lamented that terrorists had brought enormous hardships on Nigerians.

He tagged the unnamed public officials benefitting from the security crises plaguing Nigeria as disaster merchants who have compromised the prosecution of suspected Boko Haram sponsors.

There is a lot of compromise there, Mr Ojukwu said when asked by the anchor person of the programme, Seun Okinbaloye, to comment on the Information Ministers disclosure on Thursday concerning Boko Haram financiers.

While putting questions to Mr Ojukwu and his co-guest on the programme, Mike Ejiofor, a retired director from the State Security Service (SSS), the Channels Television journalist acknowledged that on three separate occasions, the Justice Minister had promised to initiate criminal proceedings against the suspected terrorism financiers.

We dont need to hear the names; get them (terrorism financiers) arrested, prosecute them and put them behind bars. That is where the belong, the retired police officer said.

How can you allow people who have caused so much hardships on Nigerians; keeping us down, killing our men and women, raping people, and you just say we have their names? Why are you hiding their names? Mr Ojukwu queried.

He has consistently lamented the poor funding of the Nigerian police force, calling for improved remuneration and equipping of its manpower.

Earlier, Mr Mohammed had during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday revealed that the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) had uncovered 96 financiers of terrorism, including 424 associates of the financiers.

But the minister, like his colleague, Mr Malami, did not mention the names of the sponsors and firms fingered in the alleged terrorism financing.

NFIU analysis

For its part, the analysis by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, in 2020-2021, revealed 96 financiers of terrorism in Nigeria, 424 associates/supporters of the financiers, involvement of about 123 companies and 33 bureaux de change, in addition to identifying 26 suspected bandits/kidnappers and seven co-conspirators.

On terrorism financing, NFIU had intelligence exchanges on Boko Haram, ISWAP, banditry, kidnapping and others with 19 countries. During the same period, 2020-2021, the organisation returned fraudulently-obtained funds totalling US$103,722,102.83; 3,000 pound sterling; 7,695 Singapore dollar, and 1,091 Euros to 11 countries of victims who came into the country.

The analysis has resulted in the arrest of 45 suspects who will soon face prosecution and seizure of assets, Mr Mohammed said.
Mackenzie Scott

The Columbus-based affiliate of Communities In Schools  a national student dropout prevention nonprofit  will receive $2 million through a larger donation from billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

Scott, ex-wife of former Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, donated $133.5 million to Communities In Schools Network and National Office, according to a news release Thursday.

Rey Saldana, the president and CEO of Communities In Schools (CIS), said the donation will have a big impact on students who are "underserved, under-resourced, and in need of supports to build a brighter future.

"This unrestricted gift allows us to combat the inequities in public education and reimagine the way schools operated and show up for all students," Saldana said.

More: Not 2020 again? Tell that to parents where COVID cases, test shortages are closing schools

The $2 million going towards the Ohio affiliate, which has its headquarters in Columbus, will allow the organization to expand its services to more students across the state, CEO Amy Gordon said in the release. Communities In Schools of Ohio serves 21,873 students in 34 schools across the state.

During the 2020-21 school year, 99% of students enrolled in CIS programs across the nation remained in school through the end of the school year and 96% were promoted to the next grade level, Saldana said.

"As we continue to see the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on students and their families, the funds could not have come at a better time," Gordon said.

In the summer of 2001, Columbus City Schools had a preliminary graduation rate of about 77%.

Related: As COVID hurts student mental health, Buckeye Ranch sends clinicians into Columbus schools

mylee@dispatch.com

@leem386

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Communities In Schools of Ohio gets $2 million from Mackenzie Scott
Not sure what it is about childrens books that make life purer, more logical and possible, but U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayors latest childrens book, Just Help! How to Build a Better World continues the tradition.

The Chicago Public Library hosted Sotomayor for a virtual conversation Wednesday about the new release, which takes young readers on a journey through a neighborhood where kids, adults, activists, friends and strangers all help one another build a better world. Sotomayor answered questions from school-age children about her career and life with the help of Eve Ewing  author, sociologist, poet, playwright, former Chicago Public Schools middle school science teacher, and current assistant professor at the Crown Family School of Social Work at the University of Chicago.

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Theres such an interest and desire right now in exploring themes of social justice and racial healing, said Chicago Public Library Commissioner Chris Brown. Its happening at a city level with Mayor (Lori) Lightfoot in Together We Heal and this is our attempt at Chicago Public Library to bring in thought leaders and authors to be part of that citywide dialogue in exploring these topics that just became so much more apparent during the pandemic.

Inspired by her familys desire to help others, Sotomayors Just Help! shows youth its the little things, the everyday thoughts and actions that make a difference by having a domino effect in a community. Sotomayors previous childrens book, Just Ask!, published in 2019.

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I think most people think of service in grand ways, Sotomayor said. They think about being an elected official ... sort of grand positions, which they imagine do big things. But the reality is ... the world doesnt run because of those big-name positions. The world runs because of the everyday people who contribute to helping it go forward. ... If we think about all the ways in which people make our world better by just being nice, to me, to each other, and to others, thats real service in my mind.

We talked with Justice Sotomayor about her writing muse, literary legacy and whats been helping her during the pandemic. The interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.

(Philomel Books)

Q: How many books are you writing at any given time?

A: I only write one book at a time. That doesnt mean I dont have ideas overlapping. Just Ask! from inception to publication was over 2 years, but thats because so much else was going on in the interim. After Just Ask! I started to think about what I wanted to write about next. Over the last six years, I had actively been involved in civic education for children because I became a member of the board of directors of the icivics.org organization. ... My work there about civic participation and ensuring children are taught about the importance of civic education in their life from as young an age as possible, that for me, was the next book. Just Help! was easy because it came from something I was personally passionate about. I understood in talking to kids about civic participation, how few of them understood how much they could change the world. This book is showing them that.

Q: The inspiration behind your latest book is fueled by your passion for civics education. Did the pandemic or recent racial reckoning factor in at all for the impetus of this book?

A: It all figured in  all of it came at the same time, meaning as I was thinking about what the next book was, there was the fact that we are dealing in very partisan times in the world and times where the civil discourse has gotten very difficult. It was clear to me that this was a timely book, given what is happening around the world. I should say in America, but its also happening in the world as you know.

Q: You reiterate self-reliance and passion for community throughout your books. Is there a favorite age group that you prefer writing for?

A: For me, the younger that I can make a mark on a child, the more hope there is for the child to be impassioned and inspired to make a difference. The statistics are pretty telling that if children receive a quality civics education, theyre more likely than not to finish school  whether its high school, college or professional school. Theres research studies on this: Kids who receive a quality civics education become greater leaders, they tend to get better jobs. Inspiring kids is the way to create a future for them. And so the earlier I can get them, the better.

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Q: Is there a particular person, place, or thing that has helped you get through this pandemic?

A: Yes, but its for reasons that some people might not find happy. The fall of 2020, my mother took ill, and I spent most of that next seven months with her in Florida. She passed away this past summer. It was heartbreaking for me. You may know from my writings how important my mother was and is to me but the fact that I could be there for her because we were working virtually, was a personal gift to me. It gave me personal time with my mother that I might not have been able to otherwise give her since Im on the go all the time. I spent some really quality time with her. In that regard, I got through the pandemic in a way that I really wish I hadnt had to  but the natural sequence of life, that at some point, I would lose my mom  Im just glad that, I could spend time with her.

Q: Share more about your writing muse and the literary legacy you want to leave.

A: Everything I write, the very first question I have is, whats the purpose of what Im writing? Whos my audience? Whats it aiming to do? The second question is, whats the theme Im going to use to accomplish that purpose? Once I have identified that, the writing for me just flows. I cant say it writes itself. But once I identified purpose and theme of how to get that purpose out, the writing structures itself. Thats the thing with Just Help  it was going through a day showing different ways in which children could participate in making the world better. It starts with me packing a shopping bag, but the very next vignette is me getting on the school bus. And the school bus driver, helping me with my bag up the steps and getting on the bus and having two friends move over because they saw there were no seats for me. I wanted children to understand that building the world should happen step by step. It doesnt have to be just big things and each of the vignettes play on that.

Q: And the legacy part?

A: I often tell children, given a position as a Supreme Court justice, where Im going to write opinions that will be in the legal history books, in reading those opinions, theyll see a little bit of who I am in my personality. When I write an opinion, it reflects some of who I am. The people who read them are looking to them to help educate their legal reasoning. Theyre not reading them to necessarily get to know me as a person. My books give me the legacy of actually staying alive. So long as there is a child alive who met me or read one of my books and was inspired to do something because of that book, for me, thats a greater legacy than a Supreme Court opinion. I tell people, every child who reads one of my books or listens to me talk who gets affected by what Im saying and helps them navigate their life in a better way, helps them deal with whatevers happening in their life in a way they might not have otherwise thought about  thats my bigger legacy. Thats why I write these books. Thats why I spend time talking to kids. Because I want them to understand how important they are and how much power they have, power to do better than Ive been able to do because I expect every one of them to accomplish more than I have and I really want them to know that.

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drockett@chicagotribune.com
Black Alumni Society Virtual Reunion: Fantastic Voyage Across the Diaspora

On February 18 and 19, the University of Miami Black Alumni Society (UMBAS) invites you to come along and ride on a virtual Fantastic Voyage! Well make informative and enlightening stops at diasporic ports of call, taking a closer look at Barbados, Haiti, Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Ghana, to appreciate the beauty and strength that lie beyond their shores. As our adventure unfolds, well learn more about the benefits of traveling, mindfulness, and self-care, and gain insight into nations rich with culture and people originating from the motherland.

UTrailblazers: Building the dream at the University of Miami

The rich diversity of the Universitys alumni base is illustrated in the Taylor Family/UTrailblazer Experience, located in the Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. Breezeway on the Coral Gables Campus.

Made possible by a gift from alumnus and University trustee Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., B.S.C. '89, this interactive kiosk, which will be officially unveiled in August, highlights the past, current, and expected future contributions of Black students at the University of Miami, with content curated by the University Archives. The UTrailblazer Experience is the culmination of a multi-year effort to recognize and honor the Universitys first Black graduates who, in the 1960s and 1970s, courageously broke down the color and other barriers at the U.

The ongoing pursuit of racial justice at the U

Black History Month is a time to pause, celebrate, and honor the achievements and contributions of Black Americans. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the multiple initiatives underway across all areas of the institution to advance diversity, equity and inclusion.

Among them is the establishment of a Center for Global Black Studies, which will enrich the intellectual and cultural life of the University and have the opportunity to be a highly visible link between the University and Black communities, both locally and globally.
The state government has set up a toll-free number, 14,417 to report problems related to Jagananna Vidya Kanuka, toilet maintenance, Gorumudda and maintenance of schools. These should work effectively, the CM said.  DC Image

VIJAYAWADA: As many as 22,000 teachers would get promotion and students good education with introduction of the New Education Policy (NEP) in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has asserted.

The Chief Minister held a review meeting here on Thursday on the progress of works in the education department and said all the reforms in line with the new education policy (NEP) should be implemented by the next academic year. Two schools must be upgraded into junior colleges in each mandal. Of these two, one junior college would be for co-education and the other exclusively for girls.

He asked officials to ensure the teacher  student ratio is maintained in schools and stressed that there should be teachers for each subject. More than 22,000 teachers will get promotion as more schools will come up under the NEP, he said.

Teachers should be promoted from SGT to school assistants and appropriate steps should be taken to improve their capabilities. Officials must complete promotions and transfers and implement the reforms by June, the CM said.

Jagan Mohan Reddy said all the recommendations given by SERT should be implemented. He gave the green signal for changing the name of Mandal Resource Center to Mandal Education Officer's Office, giving the drawing powers directly to the MEO. He approved the SERT recommendation of handing over educational activities to MEO and gave his nod for recruitment of MEP posts.

The Chief Minister also approved the SERT recommendation of having real-time data rather than various apps, without duplication, taking of online attendance and of entering the students marks online. He also approved implementation of the SERT recommendation against deployment of teachers for non-academic works and for headmasters holding one meeting with teachers every month.

Jagan Mohan Reddy asked officials to take immediate action for redressal of complaints from schools and attend to lack of facilities and repair of infrastructure and related issues. Focus attention also on maintenance of schools and ensuring facilities like toilets and drinking water.

He asked officials to start the second phase of Nadu Nedu works soon. Officials informed the CM that they would start the second phase of Nadu Nedu works on Feb 15 and complete them by September.

The state government has set up a toll-free number, 14,417 to report problems related to Jagananna Vidya Kanuka, toilet maintenance, Gorumudda and maintenance of schools. These should work effectively, the CM said.

Jagan Mohan Reddy asked officials to provide dictionaries to new students in schools and teach them at least one word a day, explaining to them its usage, and this must be made a part of the curriculum. Officials must focus attention also on digital learning for the 8th, 9th and 10th classes and see if it can be taught as a subject, he said.

The officials said talk about schools being shut down due to the new education policy is untrue. We are merging classes, not schools," they said.

Education minister Adimulapu Suresh, chief secretary Sameer Sharma, school education special chief secretary Buditi Rajashekar as also women and child welfare principal secretary Anuradha were among those present.
BLAST Premier claims to be the world's leading Counter-Strike tournament series, hosting the best players and teams, offering opportunities to regions across the globe and crowning the world champions of CS:GO. Up to 32 of the worlds best teams take part in the seven BLAST Premier events across the year with a combined prize pool of $2,475,000 on the line. The companys global Counter-Strike tournament series was founded in early 2020 and saw 59.37 million hours watched in 2021 off the back of a 30% increase in viewership on the previous year.Featuring a combination of the worlds leading TV networks and online platforms, BLAST Premiers new broadcast will cover all major esports regions around the world ranging from North America, LATAM, Asia, the Nordics and CIS among others.The expanded broadcast portfolio represents a combination of renewals with existing global partners as well as signing an array of new media rights deals with multiple leading media outlets. Broadcasters include: public broadcaster TV2 (Denmark), TV network Astro (Asia), OTT service StarTimes (Africa), popular streamer Gaules (Brazil) and online streaming service WePlay Esports (Ukraine and CIS). Further deals are in the pipeline.We are delighted to start the 2022 season with the widest distribution in our history, remarked Alexander Lewin, VP of distribution and programming at BLAST.  BLAST Premier has been on a path of rapid growth since inception two years ago and is now available in over 25 languages worldwide. We are thrilled to extend our relationship with the vast majority of our existing licensees as well as welcome so many new partners to the BLAST family.
Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court has granted Trinamul Congress strongman Anubrata Mondal an interim cover of four weeks from arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in a postpoll violence case of murder of a BJP worker in Birbhum of West Bengal.

Justice Rajasekhar Mantha directed the CBI on Thursday not to take any coercive step against Mr Mondal without it's nod but ordered him to cooperate with the investigation.

During the hearing Sandipan Ganguly, the counsel of the TMC Birbhum district chief, submitted that his client is not an FIR named accused in the case and is not keeping well which is why he cannot travel to Durgapur in Burdwan West amid Covid-19 pandemic to face questioning.

He also pointed out why the notice was sent to Mr Mondal from the CBI office at Lucknow instead of Kolkata. Additional solicitor general SV Raju who appeared for the CBI however argued that Mr Mondal needs to be grilled in the case but made it clear of no plan to arrest him.

The TMC district chief of Birbhum, who moved the HC on Wednesday seeking protection after the CBI summoned him for third time in the case to question him, said, "I respect law and will help in the probe." He later offered puja at Tarapith.
Mississippi just became the 37th state to legalize medical marijuana.

The law went into effect Wednesday after Republican Gov. Tate Reeves signed the bill. In November 2020, a majority of Mississippi voters approved a medical marijuana initiative. It will allow people to buy up to 5 ounces per month.

Six months later, the state Supreme Court invalidated the initiative, saying the initiatives procedures were outdated and the measure was not properly placed on the ballot.

In a statement on social media, Reeves said, There is no doubt that some people in our state would have access to medical prescription dose of marijuana. 

There are also people who really want a recreational marijuana program, which could lead to more people smoking and fewer people working, with all the social and family ills that come with it, he added.

The Republican-controlled state Senate and House of Representatives passed the final version of the 2095 Senate bill last week. Patients are now allowed to purchase about 3 ounces of marijuana per month. This is 2 ounces less than the original law allows. Because of this improvement, there will be hundreds of millions of fewer joints on the street, Reeves said.

Reeves expressed concern about the original purchase limits approved by voters. Ive made it clear that Im not going to write the bills on my desk, Reeves said. But in fact, the lawmakers who drafted the final version of the bill (Draft 45 or 46) made significant improvements to move us closer to achieving our ultimate goal.

Cities and counties have 90 days to opt out of medical marijuana facilities growing or distributing marijuana. People in these communities can apply for elections to veto opt-out.

Pharmacies may be licensed within the next 6 months.

Now, hopefully, we can put this issue behind us and move on to other pressing issues facing our state, Reeves said.
Emory Arts celebrates spring semester and the return to campus with a variety of musical performances, discussions and other programs sure to entertain arts enthusiasts  including Jazz Fest, an evening with Branford Marsalis and a new exhibit featuring comic books and graphic novels.

Get jazzy with Jazz Fest

Emory Jazz Fest 2022 kicks off February, with several events at the Schwartz Performing Arts Center (Emerson Concert Hall) during the first weekend of the month.

Schwartz artist-in-residence Raul Midon  dubbed an eclectic adventurist by People magazine  has released 10 studio albums as a solo artist and has collaborated with musical greats such as Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder and Bill Withers. The Grammy Award-nominated artist hosts a free lecture and discussion on Thursday, Feb. 3, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are not required.

On Friday, Feb. 4, Midon takes the stage with the Gary Motley Trio, featuring Edwin Livingston and Clarence Penn, at 8 p.m. Tickets for the performance are on sale ($30 general admission, $10 for Emory students).

Jazz Fest wraps up on Saturday, Feb. 5, when the Emory Big Band performs with the Gary Motley Trio  again with Edwin Livingston and Clarence Penn  at 8 p.m. this event is free, but tickets are required.

Enjoy student and guest performances

A collection of concerts by students, faculty and professional musicians continues through February.

Pianist Alec Chien returns to Emory for the Cooke Noontime Concert on Friday, Feb. 11, at 12 p.m. at the Carlos Museum (Ackerman Hall). Fans of his stunning performance last season of the Beethoven Piano Sonata Series wont want to miss this opportunity to hear him again. The concert is free, but registration is required to avoid overcrowding.

Guitarist and composer Timucin Sahin visits Emory as a Schwartz Artist-in-Residence during CompFest 2022. As part of this residency, he will work with Emory music students on improvisation, electronic music and composition, and he will present two free concerts at Emorys Performing Arts Studio in the Burlington Road Building: Friday, Feb. 11, at 8 p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 12, at 8 p.m.

An Emory musical tradition continues on Sunday, Feb. 13, with the Bach Bowl at 4 p.m. at the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts (Emerson Concert Hall). This annual one-hour concert prior to the Super Bowl will get audience members in the mood for the big game with two of Bach's most imaginative and engaging works. The concert is free, but general admission tickets are required.

Cellist Zuill Bailey performs three Bach suites for solo cello on Friday, Feb. 18, at 12 p.m. The free performance is part of the Bachs Lunch Series presented by the Emory Chamber Music Society of Atlanta (ECMSA) and is held at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta.

The Candler Concert Series continues on Friday, Feb. 18, at 8 p.m., featuring an evening with Branford Marsalis. The musician, composer and band leader returns to the Schwartz Center stage with the Branford Marsalis Quartet, long recognized as the standard for measuring jazz ensembles. Tickets are on sale now.

A second ECMSA concert on Saturday, Feb. 19, at 8 p.m. features Zuill Bailey (cello), Linda Rosenthal (violin) and William Ransom (piano). The performance, held in Emerson Concert Hall of the Schwartz Performing Arts Center, is free.

Two student performances conclude the months concerts. The Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra performs Wednesday, Feb. 23, at 8 p.m. The Emory Wind Ensemble presents classic and emerging works for winds, brass and percussion on Sunday, Feb. 27, at 4 p.m. The symphony orchestra and wind ensemble performances are both in the Schwartz Centers Emerson Concert Hall and are free.

Delve into artistic interpretations

The newest exhibition at the Carlos Museum, And I Must Scream, is designed to prompt conversations related to global crises. Employing monstrous, grotesque and humanoid figures and forms, the works in this thought-provoking exhibit engage five themes: corruption and human rights violations, displacement, environmental destruction, the pandemic,and renewal.

Special programs at the Carlos Museum during February include the 30th-annual Nix Mann Endowed Lecture. Held online Sunday, Feb. 6, at 2 p.m., the talk features French-Beninese author and photographer Laeila Adjovi, who delves into her artistic and literary practice, discussing topics that permeate her work and research: multilayered identities, fragmented collective memory, the link between the African continent and its diasporas and the (mis)representation of the African cultural heritage. Adjovi's photographic series, Malaika Dotou Sankofa, is featured in the exhibition And I Must Scream. The program is free but registration is required.

Discussions during Works on Paper Wednesdays center on pieces from The Eye, the Mind and the Heart, an exhibition open until March 5 honoring the legacy of Clark Poling, professor in Emorys Department of Art History, former director of the Carlos Museum and faculty curator emeritus of Works on Paper. The free programs will be held at 4 p.m. in the Carlos Museums Ackerman Hall and online on three Wednesdays: Feb. 9, Feb. 16 and Feb. 23.

A new exhibit opens at the Woodruff Library on Friday, Feb. 11: Graphic Narratives and Comic Collections at Emory: Past, Present and Future. Graphic narratives are a growing area of study and literary expression. This exhibit focuses on the expansion of Emorys collections in this genre, including comics and long-form graphic novels. Pieces highlighted in this exhibit are drawn from the collections of the Woodruff Library, Rose Library, and the Oxford Library.
Former PCC president V. Hanumantha Rao conducts Palabhisekham on a statue of Dr B.R. Ambedkar at Tank Bund. (Photo: DC)

Hyderabad: The Congress started a 48-hour Deeksha against remarks by Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao on the Constitution. Under the aegis of TPCC SC department, the protest began at Gandhi Bhavan. TPCC president, MP A.Revanth Reddy will participate in the Deeksha on Friday.

TPCC senior vice-president, former MP Mallu Ravi, Congress differently abled persons wing chairman Muthineni Veeraiah and others were present.

However, Congress leaders and activists staged protests across the state on Thursday against the comments of KCR to rewrite the Constitution. They staged protests near Ambedkar statues and conducted Palabhisekham.

In Jogulamba Gadwal district, AICC secretary, former MLA Sampath Kumar participated in dharna. Speaking on the occasion, he said that Rao should apologise to the citizens. There is no moral right to him (KCR) to continue in Chief Ministers post, he said.
The main characters in Donja R. Loves play Fireflies are called Charles and Olivia. But theyre thinly veiled versions of the civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta. And this two-character play, which opened last weekend at Northlight Theatre, is far more invested in the latter.

The 90-minute piece, seen off-Broadway at New Yorks Atlantic Theatre Company in 2018, is also much concerned with the marital fidelity, or lack thereof, of certain key figures in the movement. As with political leaders of all eras and ideologies, there is, of course, evidence that long, intense and dangerous nights away from home often led to ill-judged affairs and assignations, not always fully compatible with the public messaging.

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But Love goes further here, intensely building a case that Olivia was not just the domestic (and sexual) rock upon which her spouse relied but the one who wrote many of her husbands most stirring speeches. The playwrights intent, I think, is to give more due to the women of the movement, often overlooked or underestimated in conventional historical accounts.

Its an interesting piece, for sure. But at least in Northlights production, it falls somewhere between historical realism, melodrama and a work occupying a more expressionistic or symbolic realm. And that, I think, makes it hard on the two talented actors playing these roles, Chanell Bell and AlJaleel McGhee.

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Chanell Bell and AlJaleel McGhee in "Fireflies" at Northlight Theatre in Skokie. (Michael Brosilow photo / HANDOUT)

The director, here, Mikael Burke, is an accomplished visual stylist and hes forged a laudably ambitious and experimental production that imagines the couples kitchen and dining area as a tense, narrow platform from which the two come and go, sometimes to their bedroom, sometimes to the world outside. Some of the visual and aural images (the set is from Scott Penner and the soundscape is by Christie Chiles Twillie) are quite transfixing, but at other times, the integration with a text full of thick language and constant plot twists isnt fully fused.

McGhee plays Charles with great volume and intensity, a nod, surely, to the mans familiarity with the delivery of rousing speeches, but at times it feels like both performers are speaking past each other. That might well be deliberate, given the themes, but there are moment when it creates a sense of dislocation that stands in the way of necessary empathy. Betrayal, after all, is often worse when manifested in near silence.

Both the play and the production works best when Bells Olivia is recounting the full horrors that surround her: nightmares, fear, worry about a coming child, a subjugated love of her own. Those are the sections at the core of what the playwright is writing about and they work here; the landscape of this marriage is not as easy to believe.

Chris Jones is a Tribune critic.

cjones5@chicagotribune.com

Review: Fireflies

When: Through Feb. 20

Where: Northlight Theatre at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie

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Running time: 1 hour, 35 minutes

Tickets: $30-$89 at 847-673-6300 or northlight.org
Only 9% of California students take a bus to school, according to the Federal Highway Administration. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)

The yellow school bus has become an increasingly rare sight in California. But new legislation is aiming to change that, a policy shift that proponents say could curb absenteeism and narrow inequities.

Unlike some other states, California law does not require school districts to provide buses even if a student lives far from campus.

Some students with disabilities or those experiencing homelessness are guaranteed free transportation under federal law, but what a district provides is otherwise up to local school boards.

The state provides limited funding dedicated to public school transportation, and that funding has barely changed since the early 1980s despite an increase in demand. To fill in the gaps, some districts charge parents annual bus fees or encourage students to take the city bus. Others have cut their fleet of school buses altogether.

Getting to and from school should never be a barrier to student success. The research is clear: Students with school-provided transportation miss far fewer days and are more likely to graduate, said state Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), who is proposing that the state require school buses for all.

Skinner's new bill would provide state funding for daily transportation for all of California's 6 million K-12 students starting next year, alleviating the financial burden for districts.

The bill will ensure that not having a ride is never again the reason for a child to miss school," Skinner said in a statement.

Less than 9% of Californias students ride a school bus, the lowest rate of any other state, according to a survey by the Federal Highway Administration in 2017.

Most of Californias students get a private ride to school each day  about 68%  and 18% walk, according to the survey, as the state is home to many urban centers located in close proximity to campuses. But for students who do not have access to a car or whose parents work schedules cannot accommodate daily drop-offs and pickups, options are limited.

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Even students who live within walking distance of school deserve bus access and may not feel safe in their neighborhoods, said Jill Gayaldo, who has worked in California school transportation for 30 years.

Districts in higher-income areas, they have parents that drive. Others dont, said Gayaldo, who is now a Rocklin City Council member. You could have the absolute best program in the world, but if kids cant get to school, it doesnt do them any good.

At Sacramento County's San Juan Unified School District, where nearly half of the students qualify for free or reduced-price meals, school buses are not offered, except for the federally protected subgroups. In 2011, the school board voted to eliminate its general school bus program, citing post-recession financial woes.

Last year, 15% of students were marked chronically absent in the district, higher than the state average. For Black students at San Juan Unified, the rate is 35%.

California's Black and Native American students are most likely to be chronically absent and least likely to have access to a vehicle.

The two groups have a chronically absent rate of about 27%, compared with the statewide average of 14%, according to the California Department of Education. The chronic absenteeism rate for socioeconomically disadvantaged students is 19%.

While 7% of California households do not own a vehicle, the rate is 15% for Black households and 11% for Native American households, according to the National Equity Atlas.

The state does not track specific reasons for student absences but attendance workers tasked with reaching out to students who arent at school report lack of transportation as a top factor.

Skinners bill would allow districts to launch state-funded yellow bus programs or partner with public transit agencies to guarantee daily rides to class. Districts would no longer be allowed to charge families a fee for transportation to school.

At Rocklin Unified in Placer County, most students are charged $350 each year to ride the school bus. But thats still not enough to cover the costs to the district, said spokesperson Sundeep Dosanjh.

California school districts receive minimal reimbursement of total transportation costs, Dosanjh said. The California state funding formula is outdated and provides inequalities throughout the state and leaves most school districts using funds allocated from the general fund.

A report by the independent Legislative Analyst's Office in 2014 called the state's school transportation funding system problematic, irrational and outdated. The LAO review recommended that California change its school transportation funding formula, but it remains the same.

Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a bill in 2017 that wouldve added a cost of living adjustment to the states school transportation fund, projected to cost in the low millions of dollars annually.

Skinner's team said the projected cost of her more expansive plan is still unknown. A new school bus can cost more than $200,000.

Brown said in his 2017 veto message that while he recognizes the importance of providing student transportation "and the increasing call on local resources for competing priorities," the states education funding formula provides districts with substantial flexibility and autonomy to make their own budget decisions.

But even as California schools see record-high funding from the state, some districts choose to put the money toward other classroom needs rather than transportation.

Los Angeles Unified, the second-largest district in the nation, does not provide a daily bus service for the general student body. Last year, the district launched a $2.8-million pilot program that provides free Metro bus and train rides to students. A spokesperson said this week that about 40,000 of the districts nearly 600,000 students have so far activated Metro passes under the program.

More than 120,000 students, or about 2% of California's student body, take a city bus or other public transit to get to class, according to the Federal Highway Administration survey.

In addition, Skinner said the bill will also help fight against climate change by getting millions of cars off the road.

In his state budget proposal, Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed $1.5 billion for green school bus fleets, prioritizing grants for rural districts and those with high concentrations of low-income students, English learners and students in foster care.

Martin Ward, CEO of the Mid-Placer Public Schools Transportation Agency, said for some of his students, it takes nearly two hours to get to school. The districts he serves require payment from parents to offset transportation costs.

Some districts are wondering whether to provide any transportation at all, and there are kids that are probably compromised because of that, he said.

Ward said he welcomes a universal state-funded bus plan but warns the state will have to help districts pull it off, especially amid a bus driver shortage compounded by the pandemic. His agency is currently unable to staff three bus routes because of the labor shortage.

We start at $19 an hour, he said. The Chick-fil-A down the street starts at $18.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
By Jonnelle Marte

(Reuters) - The Federal Reserve Bank of Boston and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) unveiled on Thursday long-awaited technical research and open-source code that could be used as the groundwork for a potential central bank digital currency.

The research does not suggest that the U.S. central bank will move toward launching a CBDC, a step it has said it would not take without clear support from the White House and Congress.

"There has been no decision to move past this research phase, but if a CBDC was launched it would be something that would have to evolve over time," Jim Cunha, an executive vice president at the Boston Fed, told reporters on Thursday.

The first phase of the multi-year project, dubbed "Project Hamilton," focused on developing software that is flexible and resilient. The work resulted in code that is capable of handling 1.7 million transactions per second. Researchers also found the "vast majority" of transactions settled in under two seconds.

The team developed technology that can be adjusted as more policy questions regarding the structure and purpose of a CBDC are addressed.

For example, the first version of the code did not include intermediaries or fees, but researchers said those roles and features could be added after policymakers and other parties make decisions on the best way for consumers to access their funds and conduct transactions.

In a separate discussion paper released last month by the Fed's Board of Governors, the central bank said a digital dollar would "best suit" U.S. needs if it were intermediated through the current financial system, but did not rule out other approaches.

"Any system that might be used in the future, I think, is going to depend a lot on what policymakers decide," said Neha Narula, director of MIT's Digital Currency Initiative.

Fed policymakers and lawmakers are divided on the need for a CBDC. Some say it could improve financial inclusion, while others worry the costs could outweigh the potential benefits.

Story continues

The paper looked at some of the tradeoffs that could appear with different structures. For instance, researchers found that using distributed ledger technology, which underpins most cryptoassets and verifies transactions without the use of intermediaries, has "downsides." They said the approach could create bottlenecks and could lead to more privacy issues.

In the next phase, the Boston Fed and MIT will explore alternative designs and look more closely at other issues such as security and programmability. They will also look at ways to balance privacy issues with concerns about compliance.

The Fed wants to hear from the public about how a potential CBDC could be used or structured. Project Hamilton researchers released their software under an open-source license, adding that they want to receive feedback from other experts. And the Fed board is collecting comments on the issue via an online form.

(Reporting by Jonnelle Marte; Additional reporting by Hannah Lang; Editing by Paul Simao and Chizu Nomiyama)
This story has been updated with a quote from Robin Vos.

MADISON  Wisconsin lawyer Jim Troupis, who represented Donald Trump in a failed effort to overturn the states 2020 election results, was notified not long after the November election of a national effort to install alternate electors to help keep the former president in power.

The memo, first reported Wednesday by The New York Times, was sent from attorney Kenneth Chesebro to Troupis, a former Dane County Circuit Court judge, on Nov. 18, 2020  the same day Troupis formally requested election recounts in Dane and Milwaukee counties on behalf of Trumps campaign. Recounts and court decisions have affirmed that President Joe Biden defeated Trump in Wisconsin by almost 21,000 votes.

The memo corroborates reports that the Republican electors were coordinated by Trumps legal team in an attempt to present Vice President Mike Pence with conflicting slates of electors during the congressional certification so that he could throw the election to a House vote, which would have handed the election to Trump. Pence refused to participate in the purported scheme on Jan. 6, 2021, the day of the failed insurrection at the U.S. Capitol following a nearby Trump rally.

The memo was sent a little over a month before 10 Wisconsin Republicans convened in the state Capitol on Dec. 14, 2020, to sign official-looking documents falsely affirming that Trump had won the state. The meeting occurred on the same day that the Democratic slate of Wisconsin electors met in the same building to deliver the states 10 electoral votes to President-elect Biden. The meeting of Republicans occurred after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that Biden had won the election.

The results of the 2020 election have been confirmed by county canvassing boards, which compare vote totals against paper records and other procedures designed to catch and correct errors; recounts in Dane and Milwaukee counties; post-election audits by local and state election authorities to identify cases of possible voter fraud, which are then referred to prosecutors; a voting equipment audit by the elections commission; and reviews by the nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau and the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, which found ways in which elections could be improved but no evidence of widespread fraud. Multiple court rulings have also found no evidence of irregularities.

Ample time for judicial proceedings

Chesebro, a Boston-based attorney who has represented Trump alongside Troupis in the past, details in the memo his legal analysis following a suggestion he made to Troupis in a previous conference call.

In any judicial review of the canvassing/recounting in Wisconsin, we should emphasize that the presidential election timetable affords ample time for judicial proceedings, even if initial errors in the recount require a remand for further recounting, Chesebro wrote.

Chesebro alleges in the memo that there is a very strong argument, supported by historical precedent that the real deadline to come to a conclusion on the states election results was Jan. 6, 2021, rather than Dec. 8, the safe harbor deadline in the federal Electoral Count Act, or Dec. 14, the date that electors must vote in their respective states.

Chesebro adds that, if electors pledged to Trump and Pence cast votes on Dec. 14 and send those votes to the U.S. Senate in time to be opened on Jan. 6, a court decision (or, perhaps, a state legislative determination) rendered after December 14 in favor of the Trump-Pence slate of electors should be considered timely.

On this view, the only real deadline during the next month is the December 14 deadline to cast electoral votes  so that any state judicial proceedings which extend past that date, working toward resolution of who has won Wisconsins electoral votes, are entirely compatible with federal law provided that they are completed by January 6, Chesebro added.

Troupis did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.

Documents obtained by the liberal watchdog group American Oversight show that the states nonpartisan Legislative Reference Bureau sent two memos to Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, a Racine County Republican, on Nov. 16, 2020, relating to the states electoral college process.

Election Day had been Nov. 3, 2020, with Bidens election victory becoming apparent the following day following the hours-long ballot counting process. Recounts affirmed Bidens victory later than month.

The memos, which state they were provided upon Vos request, indicate that the Legislature has the ability to determine how presidential electors are selected, but may not affect the electors after an election has taken place as the legislature has no unilateral authority to reverse the choice of the people of the state.

Once the state legislature gives the people the franchise with respect to the appointment of presidential electors, equal protection rules governing the right to vote apply, especially the rule of one person, one vote, LRB senior coordinating attorney Michael Gallagher wrote in one memo. As a result, the state legislature may not arbitrarily reverse or otherwise interfere with the choice of the people of the state at a presidential election.

State GOP chair: In accordance with precedent

Vos told the Associated Press last month that, despite efforts by Trump and his allies to have the Legislature overturn the results of the 2020 election, there was zero chance the Legislature would take over the process of awarding presidential electors.

In a statement Thursday to Madison's WKOW-TV, Vos said he believed the the Legislature had no such authority to submit alternate electors but asked the question on behalf of constituents who flooded GOP lawmakers with questions about how the Legislature could intervene.

My office, and Im certain all other legislative offices, received hundreds of emails calling for the withdrawal of Wisconsins electoral votes," Vos' statement said. "I believed it was unconstitutional, but we asked the non-partisan Legislative Reference Bureau so we could share the memo with our members and constituents.

Republican Party of Wisconsin chair Paul Farrow said last week the Republicans who signed the official-looking documents in Wisconsin were advised to do so by attorneys and the actions were done in accordance with precedent.

Official-looking certificates were submitted by Republicans claiming to be electors in six other states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, New Mexico and Pennsylvania.

The Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol has subpoenaed 14 individuals who signed documents in the seven states, including Andrew Hitt, former chair of the state Republican Party, and 8th Congressional District GOP chair Kelly Ruh.

The subpoenas call for Hitt and Ruh to provide documents by Feb. 11 detailing any information about your role and participation in the purported slate of electors casting votes for Donald Trump and, to the extent relevant, your role in the events of January 6, 2021 and sit for depositions on Feb. 28.

Hitt is listed in the signed documents as the chairperson, and Ruh is listed as the secretary. In a statement, Hitt said he absolutely will cooperate with the committees request to provide information.Others to sign the documents in Wisconsin include Robert Spindell, a Republican who sits on the state Elections Commission; 1st Congressional District GOP vice chair Carol Brunner; Dane County Republican Party chair Scott Grabins; La Crosse County Republican Party chair Bill Feehan; 5th Congressional District GOP chair Kathy Kiernan; 6th Congressional District GOP chair Darryl Carlson; 1st Congressional District GOP vice chair Pam Travis; and Mary Buestrin, vice chair of the Midwest region for the Republican National Committee.

Multiple complaints regarding the fake electors were filed last year by Liberal law firm Law Forward with the Wisconsin Elections Commission and Milwaukee County District Attorneys Office alleging the Wisconsin Republicans committed fraud. A third complaint was filed against Hitt with the Office of Lawyer Regulation, the agency that handles complaints against lawyers.

So far, none of the agencies have formally taken up the complaints, while Milwaukee County Assistant District Attorney Matthew Westphal recently suggested that the state or federal justice department would be best suited to determine what steps, if any, should be taken on the matter.

The elections commission could take up the complaint as early as next month and Law Forward attorney Jeffrey Mandell has warned that, if no action is taken soon, the group will file a lawsuit over the matter.Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul has backed a federal investigation into the Republican electors, but has not said if he too may look into the complaint.
KEARNEY  A Nebraska probation officer who reported being kidnapped, robbed and assaulted in December is being accused of lying about the incident, and reportedly was instead in a relationship with her alleged attacker.

Mara Stamp, 31, of Kearney is charged in Buffalo County Court with tampering with physical evidence, a felony, and misdemeanor false reporting in the Dec. 18 incident. Stamp accused her former probation client Shawn W. Smith, 35, of Kearney of coming to her house, hitting her several times, taking her to an ATM where he forced her to withdraw money, then allegedly threatening her if she told anyone.

Smith was arrested and charged in Buffalo County Court with felony kidnapping, robbery, terroristic threats, and misdemeanor flight to avoid arrest, third-degree assault and driving under the influence of alcohol-first offense in the incident. However, the kidnapping and robbery charges were dismissed Wednesday by Buffalo County Attorney Shawn Eatherton.

The remainder of Smiths charges were sent to district court for trial. A hearing date has not been set.

In Stamps case, court records indicate she was in a romantic and intimate relationship with Smith on Dec. 18. At the time of Smiths arrest he told Kearney Police Department officers Stamp was a cheater and liar.

Smith said on Dec. 18 he went to Stamps house in southeast Kearney where he found her in bed with another man, and he became upset. Smith said he and Stamp had been in a relationship for about six months and they tried to keep it a secret because Stamp was a probation officer who had previously supervised Smith as her client.

Court records show Stamp was Smiths probation officer in August 2016.

Before Dec. 18 incident Smith told KPD he had been living at Stamps house for about 30 days. He described to KPD several paintings he had made that Stamp had hanging on the walls of her house.

KPD met with Stamp at her house where she initially denied any relationship with Smith, saying he was just a prior client, and that she hadnt seen him for about two months. Inside the house police noticed blank places on Stamps walls where it appeared something previously had hung, and where Smith had earlier told police his paintings were located.

A few days later records indicate KPD returned to Stamps house for a follow-up interview where they noticed paintings around the house had been moved. One painting was found sticking out of a metal trash container in her garage. When they looked at the paint KPD found a yellow notebook with a note addressed to Shawn, and signed with a heart and always Mara.

Police also retrieved Stamps cellphone at the time. When officers returned her phone later in the day they tried to retrieve the painting from the trash can, although the container had been emptied and the painting was missing.

Records indicate Stamp claimed she didnt know where the painting went, although KPD found it in the back seat of her vehicle parked in her garage. KPD seized the painting, along with two others from the back seat.

The yellow notebook also was missing from the trash can. It was later found, torn up and in a plastic bag under the kitchen sink, records indicate.

The investigation revealed Stamp was involved in a relationship with Smith, that he knew where Stamp lived because Smith had lived with her at one time, and that Stamp allegedly deleted messages from her cellphone between her and Smith.

Heres what court records show was initially reported in the Dec. 18 incident:

The Dec. 18 incident began around 1:31 a.m. when a man called the Kearney Police Department asking officers to check on the welfare of a woman at a house in the 1000 block of 15th Street. The man said he had been in bed with the woman when another man came to the residence and tried to punch him.

The man reporting the incident left the residence, but was concerned about the womans safety.

When KPD arrived at the house a neighbor told police a man and woman left in a silver sport utility vehicle. As KPD rang the doorbell to the residence a silver SUV matching the description of the SUV pulled into the driveway to the east, then backed out the driveway heading east on 15th Street at a high rate of speed without its headlights on.

An officer stopped the vehicle in the 1400 block of Avenue K, where, records indicate the driver, Smith, had a strong odor of alcohol. The passenger, known to officers as Stamp, had an abrasion on her lower lip, blood on her mouth, face, hands and clothing, and when the officer asked her what had happened, she said Smith beat her up.

Stamp was transported to CHI Health Good Samaritan where she was treated and released.

Stamp told police she had been lying in bed around 1 a.m. when she heard a knock at her door. Thinking it could be her neighbor or ex-boyfriend she answered it, and not registering who it was asked if he was OK. The man pulled her outside, shoving her to the ground where she hit her head on a ceramic pot, which caused her to momentarily black out.

The man went into the residence and the woman was locked out. She went around the residence and knocked on a bedroom window, but got no response and returned to the front door where Smith let her back in, according to records.

Stamp tried to use her phone to call her mother, based on records, but Smith took it away, accusing her of trying to call police. He then told her to give him money, or he would beat her.

The woman got back her cellphone and went into the bedroom to put on clothes, according to records, where Smith allegedly hit her in the face 10-15 times and kicked her in the ribs.

Smith allegedly told the woman he wanted $1,000, and took her to an ATM to make a withdraw.

The woman withdrew $500 from one bank, and told the man to go to another bank to get the remaining money. Instead, Smith allegedly gave the woman until noon Saturday to get the rest of the money.

Smith allegedly threatened the woman if she didnt get the remaining money he had friends in Omaha who would find her and her child. Smith then drove back to the residence on 15th Street, but when they arrived he saw KPD and fled the area.

Smith and the alleged victim were stopped a short time later and Smith was arrested for DUI where records show preliminary breath tests indicated his blood alcohol content at .176 and .146.

The legal content for an adult to drink and drive in Nebraska is .08.

Deb Minardi, Nebraska Probation administrator, said Stamp resigned her position when state officials started their inquiry.

This unfortunate incident involving Ms. Stamp was brought to our immediate attention. The Administrative Office of the Courts and Probation immediately started an internal inquiry to ensure all relevant facts where obtained, she said in an email response to the Hub. It important to note all probation personnel are held to a high standard and education, training and policies are in place to ensure these standards are met.

Stamp is scheduled to appear Feb. 10 in Buffalo County Court for a preliminary hearing on her charges.

@HubChic
The illegal activities discovered on the border with Bulgaria have increased by nearly 17 percent in the area of activity of the Giurgiu County Border Police Territorial Inspectorate (ITPF Giurgiu), over 5,000 tons of waste, over 4 million cigarettes, and over 12 tons of tobacco, all without proper paperwork, being seized by the border police officers.

"Throughout the previous year, at the level of the border crossing points of ITPF Giurgiu, 2,989 illegal activities were detected, increasing by 16.53% over 2020, throughout which a number of 2,565 illegal activities were discovered. Furthermore, 230 crimes economic-financial in nature were stopped, namely contraband, customs fraud, infringement of intellectual property rights," said on Thursday the spokersperson of ITPF Giurgiu, Roxana Popazu, at the presentation of ITPF Giurgiu's activity report for 2021.

Traffic in border crossing points has also increased compared to the previous year, by 14% for cars and 15% for freighters, Agerpres.ro informs.

Throughout 2021, on the occasion of checks conducted in the border crossing points administered by ITPF Giurgiu, 93 trucks, one minibus, one car and three ships that did not fulfill entry conditions were detected before entering Romania, carrying the total quantity of 5,513 tons of plastic, paper, rubber, glass, aluminum waste. They were denied entry to Romania.

An important point in the activity of ITPF Giurgiu was the detection of those who were trying to enter Romania with loose tobacco or unstamped cigarettes. Thus, 2021 saw the confiscation of 4,339,091 cigarettes and over 12 tons bulk tobacco.
Many serious disputes have arisen and even wars fought over land ownership around the world, and for several centuries. Every human being born on earth, unless born away from their nativity, has a natural endowment of a small portion of land they can call home or homeland. It is a gift of nature. It is irreplaceable because land is immovable, non-extendable and a fixed asset that is either inherited, bequeathed, or transferred to others through sales or usurpation. Bringing it closer home, during the time of inter-tribal wars, kingdoms and vassals fought for territorial acquisitions. In those primitive times, when humanity had not intentionally enacted rational laws to govern peaceful co-existence, anybody who felt stronger than their neighbor, could just get up and decide to invade and subjugate their neighbor with impunity. As neighbors conquered neighbors, so did foreign powers participate in this lucrative and fun business of invasions and conquests on the African landscape. Any conquered territories became the bona fide domain of the conqueror. Such behaviors replicated life in the jungle. The strong preyed on the weak and dog ate dog

Foreign invaders such as the British were vehemently resisted and several wars were fought to protect and preserve the natural endowments of people, clans and tribes. Many chiefs or ancestors sacrificed their lives in attempts to defend the land they inhabited in order to bequeath to their descendants and generations unborn. The protective resistance and agitation gave rise to the many independence movements and freedom fights. Independence was fought to reclaim and consolidate lands belonging to the present people and their descendants. Long after independence, when Ghana land was reclaimed from foreign invaders and restored to the people, the question of land ownership is still unresolved. Who owns Ghana land post independence? Does the land belong to the government, the chiefs, or the people?

A point worthy of notice is that, whereas the population has exploded and multiplied tenfold since independence, land boundaries remain static and the same. It means, ten times more people since independence are scrambling for the same land parcels. The phenomenon gives rise to the bullies, rich, well-connected, educated, famous and powerful to prey on the weak, illiterate, poor and vulnerable ones. Wars and conflicts are still raging among the tribes and peoples of Ghana over land ownership and distribution. When the vulnerable muster courage to resist and protect their obviously only legacy and property, clashes and even wars are started. Tribes have bloodily fought tribes, and families bloodily fought families. In some cases, land guards are hired to protect peoples lands. It is a very touchy but potentially explosive and dangerous issue dangling in the air. The question of land tenure is still begging for answers.

The Ghana constitution of Ghana is not definitive about ownership of land in Ghana either. The constitution vaguely puts chiefs as custodians of the land, meaning they hold lands in trust for the people. A simple dictionary definition of custodian states, A person who has responsibility for taking care of or protecting something. By this definition, a custodian is not an owner but a caretaker. For example, a custodian of the crown jewels holds keys to the strong room where the crown jewels are kept. Banks act as custodians of peoples investment and accounts but the money therein does not belong to the banks. Custodians merely take care or guard someones property to ensure its safety. Unless these vague and exploitative designations of land tenure such as stool lands, vested lands and state lands etc are clearly defined, we stand the risk of being plagued with wars, skirmishes and deadly disputes. The average Ghanaian does not know what these terms mean in reality. All we know is that, the chiefs have adopted predatory practices to seize peoples lands and scuttled their livelihoods claiming ownership of the entire land within their territories. To the chiefs, this investiture means they are the material and rightful owners of all lands within their territories. This reversal of ownership makes chiefs owners, and the people custodians of the land (holding land in trust for chiefs). And so, which is which? Who actually owns Ghana land?

A case in point is the land tenure system in the Techiman Tradition Council area in the Bono East region. The chiefs of the towns and villages have enacted their own land laws and pushed down the throats of the people. These days, chiefs do not protect and guard any lands for posterity. They are actively and hurriedly engaged in selling lands within their territories. The standard practice of land sale by the chiefs in the Techiman traditional council area gives, for an acre of land containing four building plots, 3 plots to the chiefs and one building plot to family owners of the land. And, it does not matter how long, or how many generations of family members may have possessed and farmed the land, or how many people are in the families presently. In the distribution of land booty, the Omanhene is entitled to one plot of land sold anywhere in the traditional area. Also, any vacant plot of land anywhere in the city is claimed by the chief as his property. Consequently, they have confiscated people's idle lands especially if they make any attempts to build structures on them. For his booty allocation, the Omanhene is alleged to put pressure on the subchiefs to sell more lands so he can get his allocation. In this booty distribution system, the subchief in whose territory the land for sale is located takes two plots. The chief of Oforikrom in the traditional council area claimed, one plot is for my personal development and the other for the development of the village. Ironically, the portion for the village is also wholly taken by the chief and never accounted for or turned over for any kind of development projects in the village. And this is the standard practice in the entire traditional domain. This means, the entire family or clan whose ancestors bequeathed the land as legacy and have resided on, and farmed the lands for centuries, is given one building plot out of four, for their development. Is this the distribution or land tenure system instituted by the Constitution of the republic?

It begs the question, for instance, for a chief co-opted from somewhere to be installed chief of a village he may never, in his entire life, have lived in, or even set foot in until his poaching and installation as chief to confiscate and apportion land to himself against the will of the people. He may have no friends, classmates, playmates, affinities and acquainted relatives in his new chiefdom. He may have become chief only on the grounds of an ancient tradition that stipulates that when there is a vacuum for a chief, the kingmakers cast their net wide to find which royal family is next in line of succession to produce a chief. In this search, they may go to a so-called family who may have moved to another town and lived all their lives there a century ago. So, they bring such a person to be chief of a place he may have no affinities, familial and social ties. For the last seventeen years or so that the Oforikromhene has been chief, he has never once slept in the village. To make the situation even more bizarre, he bought land in another village and built his house there while still the chief of village he has been installed chief. The village folks are livid and claim they have no chief. They resent the disrespect they get from the chief of their village who does not see them human enough to sleep amongst them. The chief works at a coastal town and therefore does not see the day-to-day issues affecting the village folks. He rules through caretaker stooges, or proxy looters (chief-appointed and land sales gang) instead of the other clan, family heads and sub-chiefs.

So as it stands, the chief takes their farm lands and apportions for sale claiming the town has extended to those farm lands. And when land is demarcated, the village folks cannot afford the price put on their own plots confiscated without compensation. It means the villagers lands are stripped from them and sold to strangers. In the long run, when their birthright and only worthwhile possession in the world, and the only source of livelihood is commandeered from their hands, then where in the world do they go? It is tantamount to depriving the voiceless village folks their birthright. This is daylight robbery and avaricious. It is predatory and it must stop or be stopped. Somebody needs to correct this anomaly and stop chiefs in Ghana from their predatory practices.

It begs the question of legitimacy. Should such chiefs, whose sole interest in chieftaincy is to snatch and sell the peoples lands for their personal indulgence, be chiefs at all? It would be different if such chiefs fought wars, as in the past, and conquered lands they could claim and make their own. But that is not the case. These chiefs do nothing meritorious to be installed chiefs. They go through no serious vetting to ascertain their suitability and qualification to be chiefs over people. They just inherit their chiefdoms by some bizarre traditions and customary legacies. We are all aware of how many vacant chief positions are currently beset with litigation and strife in Ghana. So how does all the land in chiefs domains become their bona fide properties through the stool, but for their personal gain? This is unsustainable in the 21st Century

Now, chiefs need to answer the questions if that is the accepted standard traditional practice in Akan culture. Has the Regional or National House of Chiefs approved such distribution and land tenure practices? Do the chiefs have any standard principles of rulership or do individual chiefs make their own rules? Culture and customs that they invoke as hegemony to be guarded for posteritys sake, and the edification of the oracles have been skewed to become tools of suppression and fraud. This scenario is typical and pervasive of many traditional areas in the country. The national and regional house of chiefs have become accomplices in this predatory scheme of daylight oppression. Chiefs throughout the country are caught up in this systematic larceny of their peoples lands. So one is tempted to ask the obvious question: Is chieftaincy, as an institution, relevant in 21st century Ghana? What beneficial role do chiefs play in the national reconstruction? People answer the question by suggesting that chiefs preserve our customs and culture. Great! But what relevant culture are they preserving? The culture of chiefs in Ghana today is predatory and self-aggrandizing. Most only think about themselves and how much they can pillage and plunder from their poor, voiceless and vulnerable people.

With the population of Ghana exponentially increasing but with fixed, non-expandable land size, I can only foresee a time coming when people would do everything within their powers to protect their land from usurpation and seizure, sidestepping the laws and constitutional stipulations of Ghana. Danger is looming large as we have already experienced with what we call, the Fulani menace. With more migration from the North, including foreigners, in search of arable and grazing land, the phenomenon can only escalate. So, as a country with leaders, do we just sit down, as our custom is, for the worst case scenario to play out and then scramble for quick fixes? As the peoples anger bubble inside them, we may not have the luxury of negotiation when the bubble bursts. It can only create the Arab Spring type of situation where the aftermath of chaos and anarchy is very predictable.

The people of Ghana are crying and angry at the same time about their land confiscations by the very people that are supposed to protect and guard their sacred treasures. Is there anybody out there who cares and can save the situation before it escalates into chaos? Chiefs in Ghana have become predators, preying on their voiceless and vulnerable subjects. Chiefs need to know that they cannot rule over trees, or hills, or rivers or animals within their territories, but do only rule over people. It is because of people that they are chiefs. Therefore, as chiefs, they need to care about the safety, security and wellbeing of their subjects. They need to treat their subjects with respect and dignity even if they are poor or destitute folks. Any good chief would make enhancement and development of peoples lives their primary preoccupation. But, this practice of victimizing and preying on the very people who give chiefs their pedigree is unconscionable. Their major preoccupation has become pillaging the oracles and plundering the crown jewels. In addition to confiscating the peoples legacies for chiefs personal usage, these chiefs act as if the practice is enshrined in their traditional mandates. It is immoral and perverse. As more and more chiefs demonstrate wanton disregard for their peoples feelings, maybe a time will soon come when chiefs may not be needed in our modern civilization. Chiefs behaviors in their communities have got people talking about such a phenomenon. In the era of social media and information overflow, chiefs are digging their own graves of extinction. Buyer beware!!

Among others, every governments foremost obligation is to provide safety of law and order, protecting citizens from each other and from foreign foes (Thomas Hobbes). This obligation is sacrosanct! If a government cannot provide these basic human rights, then it is not a proper government aware of its duties. It is ironic that various governments in Ghana look on, year after year, as Chiefs in the country prey on their people. While turning the blind eye to the atrocities perpetrated by chiefs, and deaf ears to the people's cries, they are swift to dispatch police or soldiers to quell protests by the people for inhumane treatment in the hands of their own chiefs. When criminals hold citizens hostage, government functionaries and law enforcement apparatus look the other way and seem to condone criminal activities. It appears law enforcement have become bedfellows with the criminals otherwise one wonders why they do not intervene in criminal holdups, though they know the criminals hideouts. Just a few years back, the youth of Techiman Traditional Council got permission to stage a peaceful protest against rampant ritual killings, scamming and defrauding by Mallams, spiritualists etc in the city. The youth and town folks have had enough of the unchecked and unstoppable criminal activities by an overwhelming number of perpetrators. The chiefs and law enforcement in the town should have preemptively checked and run these criminals out. To the contrary, they look the other way and by the omission of duty, become accomplices. Actually, sometimes these miscreants are defended and protected by the chiefs. As soon as the youth decided to help their extenuating circumstances by ridding their town of crime and fraudulent activities, police were dispatched into Techiman, not to arrest the criminals who are well-known, but to arrest the protestors who assume the job of protecting their families and the town folks from criminal gangs. If there are any genuine leaders and not themselves predators, looting and sharing the natural birthrights of Ghanaian citizens, would such leaders rise to the occasion? Somebody must explain why they do not chase and arrest criminals, but turn around to arrest people who are trying to protect and keep their communities safe (Citifmonline.com, March 25, 2018). Why does law enforcement arrest the people who are trying, in their own limited ways, to do the job that the government promised but has failed to do? Did citizens vote the government into power to also suppress peoples birthrights and oppressively silence their voices of protests into subjugation? Is anybody on the peoples side or should communities build their own security forces? Is the government using the law enforcement apparatus to suppress and oppress its citizens into silence? Watch out!!

This land tenure practices in Ghana must be resolved sooner rather than later, because I am afraid of the so many boiling hearts out there that might fight back if nobody fights for them. Remember, life is about survival and in irrational environments (jungle), the fittest and the most resilient survive. Can justice be granted the people of Techiman Traditional area especially, the people of the village of Oforikrom? Does anybody care?

By Yaw Ofori-Amanfo
A 30-year-old Kenosha man who faces two felony charges from a 2019 traffic death in the Village of Somers remains in custody in the Kenosha County Jail on a $1 million cash bond.

James J. Houston, of the 1500 block of 30th Avenue, is charged with felony counts of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle and homicide by negligent operation of a vehicle in the Dec. 18, 2019, death of Oneil H. Pommells, 40, of Evanston, Ill.

The first felony carries a maximum possible prison term of 15 years, 10 years extended supervision and a fine of $100,000, while the second carries a five-year prison sentence, five years extended supervision and a $25,000 fine.

Houston made an appearance Thursday in Kenosha County Circuit Court before Judge Gerad Dougvillo. He is expected to enter a plea March 18 at 11:30 a.m.

According to the criminal complaint, Kenosha County Sheriffs Department deputies originally responded to the intersection of Highway 31 and 18th Street for a two-vehicle crash. Rescue personnel found Pommells, who was not responsive and not breathing. He was transported to Froedtert Pleasant Prairie Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

After police received witness reports of the crash that they determined were incorrect, detectives attempted to reconstruct the scene the following day.

Pommells vehicle sustained disabling damage to the rear and passenger side. Initial witness statements indicated it was struck by Houstons northbound vehicle as it traveled westbound through the intersection, but detectives determined that would have caused damage to the driver side of the victims vehicle.

Through the investigation, detectives determined the victim was struck from behind as both vehicles traveled northbound on Highway 31. Skid marks and other evidence indicated the impact of the collision spun Pommells vehicle across the intersection into the southbound lanes, where it was struck by a third vehicle, a blue Honda.

A report from a crash reconstruction specialist with the Wisconsin State Patrol determined that Houstons vehicle struck the victims at or near the posted speed limit of 55 mph, and that there was no evidence that (the defendant) attempted to react or avoid the collision with (the victims vehicle).

Police spoke to the defendant at the crash site, and he stated that someone hit him as he drove north through the intersection. He further stated that he thought the other vehicle had driven off north, and he attempted to follow it, but could not because his vehicle was disabled.

The deputy, in his report, wrote that Houston did not show any obvious signs of impairment. About a month later, Houston stated he had been at a job fair the morning of the crash, then went to his mothers house. He denied he had been drinking that day.

Both the defendant and the driver of the blue Honda were taken to the hospital for a legal blood draw. The other driver registered a blood alcohol content of 0.0, while Houstons was .235, according to the criminal complaint.

The complaint also states that labels of each test were inadvertently switched, so they were retested, which showed Houstons BAC at .235.

Court records show the defendant failed to appear for his initial appearance Dec. 1, 2020, and again at an adjourned initial appearance Jan. 6, 2021. At that time, Commissioner Larry Keating issued a $1 million arrest warrant for Houston.

Houston was taken into custody, he was brought back to Wisconsin, and the $1 million cash bond was set by by Judge Richard Ginkowski. Houston pleaded not guilty during his preliminary hearing Oct. 15, 2021.

Delay in filing

Assistant District Attorney Thomas Binger said Thursday the delay in filing the case came down to several factors.

Binger said a referral for possible charges wasnt received until Jan. 23, 2020, and that time, all the blood test results had been finalized. Additional accident reconstruction was needed, Binger said, so the State Patrol was brought in to complete that report, which he received in July of 2020.

There were issues in serving the complaint to Houston, who was in Seattle when the warrant was issued. He eventually was arrested in Denver, Colo., but Binger wasnt certain if the defendant voluntarily surrendered or was taken into custody on the warrant.
UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday strongly condemned Tuesday's militia attacks on the Savo camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which left at least 58 civilians dead and 36 others injured, said his deputy spokesman.

The secretary-general expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery to the injured. He called on the Congolese authorities to investigate these incidents and bring those responsible to justice, noting the reprehensible nature of these attacks on a site where civilians who had already been displaced by conflict had sought protection and humanitarian assistance, said Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesman, in a statement.

The secretary-general reiterated the United Nations' continued support for the Congolese government and people in their efforts to bring about peace and stability, said the statement.

The UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, known by its French acronym as MONUSCO, deployed a patrol to the site and exchanged fire with the assailants of the Cooperative for the Development of Congo. The mission conducted joint operations with government troops into the morning hours of Wednesday, pushing the assailants out of the area and securing the site to prevent further attacks, said the statement.

Haq provided more details about the situation after the attacks at Thursday's press briefing.

UN peacekeepers are continuing to conduct robust patrols in the area. They have also reinforced their temporary operating base in the area with troops from Bunia. These additional troops will focus on providing security around the Savo site, said Haq.

On Wednesday, MONUSCO mobilized two helicopters to facilitate the medical evacuation to Bunia of 19 wounded civilians, while humanitarian workers provided medical supplies.

MONUSCO has maintained communication with the military governor of Ituri to discuss security arrangements and an increased presence of national security forces. The mission also engaged with the territorial administrator and key stakeholders at the local and provincial levels to urge them to intervene to de-escalate tensions and prevent an increase of communal violence in the Djugu territory, where the Savo IDP site is located, he said.

The Savo site, which is managed by the UN Refugee Agency and partner CARITAS, hosted more than 20,000 displaced people, including more than 13,000 children. Many of the site's residents have fled to Bule town following Tuesday's attacks, said Haq. 
Accra, Ghana: Impact Investing Ghana (IIGh) has received GBP 109,536 from the Research and Innovation Systems for Africa (RISA) fund to foster research-industry connections in Ghana.

The project aims to strengthen synergies between research and industry to unlock pathways to financing innovation that will improve integration and coordination, as well as support demand for the financing by supporting Enterprise Support Organisations (ESOs).

Over the four-month implementation period, Impact Investing Ghana (IIGh) will tackle three significant gaps revealed in its research: (a) unlocking funding for innovation ventures with inadequate access to patient capital, (b) better coordination and collaboration between ESOs to support a pipeline of innovative enterprises and c) building platforms for research-industry collaborations to ensure that research continues to drive collaborative action.

Strengthening the connections between research and industry is essential for innovation, commercialisation, and dissemination of research results. While Ghana has research capacity in universities, research institutions and firms, there is little interaction between researchers and industry. This leads to missed opportunities for scaling up innovation or linking innovations to research. The governments Science, Technology and Innovation as well as Intellectual Property policies commit to strengthening these areas, which unfortunately still have significant gaps.

Ghanas IIGh Chief Executive Officer, Amma Lartey, says: regulatory challenges, lack of innovative financing vehicles and participation by institutional investors like pension funds needs to be addressed if impact investing is to grow within the region.

She noted that the initiative was urgent and relevant, especially in sustaining efforts that drive industry-research collaboration for poverty reduction, job creation, inclusive growth and reducing the $5billion financing gap for innovation ventures.

She said IIGh is dedicated to catalysing impact investing for Ghana and the project would be key in promoting a healthy ecosystem.

The project will support three action groups, including a Fund-of-Funds action group, ESO Collaborative and a Research - Industry Collaborative to design an impact strategy, build a platform to share and rate ESO programs and help increase ESO program quality, build a knowledge-sharing platform for Research and Industry. It will support a sharing platform that connects impact ventures to impact funds and angel investors, building on successful deal rooms that are run by IIGH.

Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), RISA aims to strengthen research and innovation ecosystems in Africa. It is implemented in Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and Ethiopia, with the objective of strengthening national Research and Innovation Systems. This contributes to economic growth and development.

Impact Investing Ghana is a private-sector led initiative that builds a thriving ecosystem for impact investing in Ghana. The organisation represents the country on the Global Steering Group for Impact Investing, the successor to the Social Impact Investment Taskforce that was established by the G8.
TUNIS, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Tunisia has been elected a member of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU) for the period 2022-2024, the Tunisian Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday.

The election took place on the sidelines of the 40th ordinary session of the AU Executive Council held in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa, the ministry said in a statement.

"This election proves the confidence in Tunisia's ability to participate effectively in the establishment of peace and security in the world, particularly in Africa," Tunisian Foreign Minister Othman Jerandi was quoted as saying.

The AU Executive Council started two-day sessions from Wednesday, under the theme of "Building resilience in nutrition on the African continent: Accelerate the Human Capital, Social and Economic Development." 
OUAGADOUGOU, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- The ruling junta in Burkina Faso decided to lift the curfew and reopen land borders, according to official statements.

In a statement published on Wednesday evening, the president of the Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration (MPSR), Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, announced the lifting of the curfew imposed during the coup in January.

However, for security reasons, festive gatherings are prohibited after midnight from Monday to Thursday and after 2 a.m. from Friday to Sunday, starting Wednesday throughout the national territory.

In another decree issued the same day, the ruling junta informed the public of the reopening of land borders from Wednesday. 
HOUSTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --

Total revenues of $295.6 million in Q3 FY22 compared to $301.6 million in Q2 FY22

in Q3 FY22 compared to in Q2 FY22 Breakeven earnings and earnings per share in Q3 FY22 compared to net income of $2.8 million , or $0.10 per diluted share, in Q2 FY22

, or per diluted share, in Q2 FY22 EBITDA adjusted to exclude special items and asset dispositions was $30.7 million in Q3 FY22 compared to $44.5 million in Q2 FY22

in Q3 FY22 compared to in Q2 FY22 Adjusted Free Cash Flow was $41.8 million in Q3 FY22 compared to $19.1 million in Q2 FY22

in Q3 FY22 compared to in Q2 FY22 Unrestricted cash balance was $274.0 million with total liquidity of $326.4 million

Bristow Group Inc. ( NYSE: VTOL) today reported net loss attributable to the Company of $0.1 million, or $0.00 per diluted share, for its fiscal third quarter ended December 31, 2021 ("Current Quarter") on operating revenues of $285.0 million compared to net income attributable to the Company of $2.8 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, in the quarter ended September 30, 2021 ("Preceding Quarter") on operating revenues of $290.1 million.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") was $26.0 million in the Current Quarter compared to $45.3 million in the Preceding Quarter. EBITDA adjusted to exclude special items and gains or losses on asset dispositions was $30.7 million in the Current Quarter compared to $44.5 million in the Preceding Quarter. The following table provides a bridge between EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA excluding gains or losses on asset dispositions. See Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Metrics for a reconciliation of net income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA.



Three Months Ended,

December 31,

2021

September 30,

2021 EBITDA $ 26,009

$ 45,264 Special items:





Restructuring costs $ 17

$ 117 Loss on impairment 

2,901 PBH intangible amortization 3,060

3,060 Merger-related costs 34

647 Government grants 

(222) Early extinguishment of debt fees 

124 Bankruptcy-related costs 29

103 Insurance-related proceeds, net 

899 Nonrecurring professional services fees 2,253

817 Bankruptcy-related settlement 

(9,000)

$ 5,393

$ (554) Adjusted EBITDA $ 31,402

$ 44,710 Gains on asset dispositions, net (727)

(162) Adjusted EBITDA excluding asset dispositions $ 30,675

$ 44,548

"Bristow's disappointing financial results in Q3 FY22 were due to a number of factors, including $3.4 million in costs related to the temporary relocation of operations to alternate base locations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico due to damage caused by Hurricane Ida," said Chris Bradshaw, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bristow. "The decline in profitability relative to the preceding quarter was also due to negative variances of $3.1 million related to the timing of major repairs, $1.1 million related to aircraft lease return costs, a $3.0 million adverse variance in foreign currency exchange, and a $1.8 million decline in equity earnings from unconsolidated affiliates. On the top line, higher revenues in our oil and gas service line, which were driven by increased utilization in the Americas region, were offset by reduced flight hours in our UK SAR contract and reduced revenues from fixed wing services related to COVID-19 travel restrictions and seasonality. Overall, the disappointing Q3 results are in contrast to our positive outlook for the trajectory of demand for our services as spending in the offshore oil and gas market is expected to increase significantly over the next few years, which should drive substantial improvements in Bristow's financial results. Finally, we were pleased that the Company generated approximately $42 million in Adjusted Free Cash Flow in the current quarter despite the aforementioned challenges."

Sequential Quarter Results

Operating revenues in the Current Quarter were $5.1 million lower compared to the Preceding Quarter. Operating revenues from oil and gas services were $1.3 million higher primarily due to higher utilization in the Americas region, partially offset by lower utilization in the Europe and Africa regions. Operating revenues from government services were $3.3 million lower primarily due to lower utilization and the weakening of the British pound sterling relative to the U.S. dollar. Operating revenues from fixed wing services were $3.0 million lower primarily due to COVID-related travel restrictions and seasonality.

Operating expenses were $3.1 million higher in the Current Quarter primarily due to higher fuel expenses, maintenance costs and costs incurred to relocate operations from bases damaged during Hurricane Ida, partially offset by lower personnel and insurance costs.

General and administrative expenses were $2.0 million higher in the Current Quarter primarily due to increased nonrecurring professional services fees.

During the Preceding Quarter, the Company recognized a $2.9 million loss on the impairment of H225 helicopter parts inventory.

During the Current Quarter, the Company sold one fixed wing aircraft and other equipment resulting in a net gain of $0.7 million. During the Preceding Quarter, the Company sold four S-76C++ medium helicopters and two AW109 light-twin helicopters resulting in a net gain of $0.2 million.

During the Current Quarter, the Company recognized losses of $0.9 million from unconsolidated affiliates compared to earnings of $1.0 million in the Preceding Quarter.

Other income, net of $4.0 million in the Current Quarter was primarily related to government grants to fixed wing services of $3.2 million and a favorable interest adjustment to the Company's pension liability of $0.7 million. Other income, net of $15.3 million in the Preceding Quarter was primarily related to a bankruptcy-related legal settlement of $9.0 million, government grants to fixed wing services of $2.7 million, net foreign exchange gains of $2.2 million, insurance proceeds of $0.6 million and a favorable interest adjustment to the Company's pension liability of $0.6 million.

Income tax benefit was $1.6 million in the Current Quarter compared to expense of $14.5 million in the Preceding Quarter. The change in income tax expense in the Current Quarter was driven by lower pre-tax earnings, the tax impact of valuation allowances on the Company's net losses and the tax impact of deductible business interest expense.

Liquidity and Capital Allocation

As of December 31, 2021, the Company had $274.0 million of unrestricted cash and $52.4 million of remaining availability under its amended asset-based revolving credit facility (the "ABL Facility") for total liquidity of $326.4 million. Borrowings under the amended ABL Facility are subject to certain conditions and requirements.

In the Current Quarter, purchases of property and equipment were $5.9 million, and cash proceeds from dispositions of property and equipment were $0.7 million, resulting in net (proceeds from) / purchases of property and equipment ("Net Capex") of $5.2 million. In the Preceding Quarter, purchases of property and equipment were $14.3 million, and cash proceeds from dispositions of property and equipment were $3.2 million, resulting in Net Capex of $11.2 million. See Adjusted Free Cash Flow Reconciliation for a reconciliation of Net Capex and Adjusted Free Cash Flow.

Conference Call

Management will conduct a conference call starting at 10:00 a.m. ET (9:00 a.m. CT) on Friday, February 4, 2022, to review the results for the fiscal third quarter ended December 31, 2021. The conference call can be accessed as follows:

All callers will need to reference the access code 1829005.

Within the U.S.: Operator Assisted Toll-Free Dial-In Number: (800) 289-0720

Outside the U.S.: Operator Assisted International Dial-In Number: (856) 344-9142

Replay

A telephone replay will be available through February 18, 2022 by dialing 888-203-1112 and utilizing the access code above. An audio replay will also be available on the Company's website at www.bristowgroup.com shortly after the call and will be accessible through February 18, 2022. The accompanying investor presentation will be available on February 4, 2022 on Bristow's website at www.bristowgroup.com .

About Bristow Group

Bristow Group Inc. is the leading global provider of innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions. Bristow primarily provides aviation services to a broad base of major integrated, national and independent offshore energy companies. Bristow provides commercial search and rescue ("SAR") services in several countries and public sector SAR services in the United Kingdom ("U.K.") on behalf of the Maritime & Coastguard Agency ("MCA"). Additionally, the Company offers ad hoc helicopter and fixed wing transportation services.

Bristow currently has customers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Guyana, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Norway, Spain, Suriname, Trinidad, the U.K. and the U.S.

Forward-Looking Statements Disclosure

This press release contains "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements represent Bristow Group Inc.'s (the "Company") current expectations or forecasts of future events. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe," "project," or "continue," or other similar words. These statements are made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, reflect management's current views with respect to future events and therefore are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown. The Company's actual results may vary materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements. The Company cautions investors not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are made. The Company disclaims any obligation or undertaking to provide any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in the Company's expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which the forward-looking statement is based that occur after the date hereof. Risks that may affect forward-looking statements include, but are not necessarily limited to, those relating to: public health crises, such as pandemics (COVID-19) and epidemics, and any related government policies and actions; expected cost synergies and other financial or other benefits of the merger ("Merger") might not be realized within the expected time frames, might be less than projected or may not be realized at all; the ability to successfully integrate the operations, accounting and administrative functions of Era Group Inc. ("Era") and the entity formerly known as Bristow Group Inc. ("Old Bristow"); managing a significantly larger company than before the completion of the Merger; diversion of management time on issues related to integration of the Company; the increase in indebtedness as a result of the Merger; operating costs, customer loss and business disruption following the Merger, including, without limitation, difficulties in maintaining relationships with employees and customers, may be greater than expected; our reliance on a limited number of customers and the reduction of our customer base as a result of bankruptcies or consolidation; the possibility that we may be unable to maintain compliance with covenants in our financing agreements; global and regional changes in the demand, supply, prices or other market conditions affecting oil and gas, including changes resulting from a public health crisis or from the imposition or lifting of crude oil production quotas or other actions that might be imposed by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and other producing countries; fluctuations in the demand for our services; the possibility that we may impair our long-lived assets and other assets, including inventory, property and equipment and investments in unconsolidated affiliates; our ability to implement operational improvement efficiencies with the objective of rightsizing our global footprint and further reducing our cost structure; the possibility of significant changes in foreign exchange rates and controls, including as a result of the U.K. having exited from the European Union; potential effects of increased competition and the introduction of energy efficient alternative modes of transportation and solutions; the risk of future material weaknesses we may identify while we work to align policies, principles, and practices of the combined company following the Merger or any other failure by us to maintain effective internal controls; the possibility that we may be unable to re-deploy our aircraft to regions with greater demand; the possibility of changes in tax and other laws and regulations and policies, including, without limitation, actions of the Biden Administration that impact oil and gas operations or favor renewable energy projects in the U.S.; the possibility that we may be unable to dispose of older aircraft through sales into the aftermarket; general economic conditions, including the capital and credit markets; the possibility that segments of our fleet may be grounded for extended periods of time or indefinitely; the existence of operating risks inherent in our business, including the possibility of declining safety performance; the possibility of political instability, war or acts of terrorism in any of the countries where we operate; the possibility that reductions in spending on aviation services by governmental agencies could lead to modifications of our search and rescue ("SAR") contract terms with the UK government, our contracts with the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement ("BSEE") or delays in receiving payments under such contracts; and our reliance on a limited number of helicopter manufacturers and suppliers capabilities.. You should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements because the matters they describe are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond our control. Our forward-looking statements are based on the information currently available to us and speak only as of the date hereof. New risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict these matters or how they may affect us. We have included important factors in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021 (the "Annual Report") which we believe over time, could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ from the anticipated results, performance or achievements that are expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. You should consider all risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Annual Report and in our filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), all of which are accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov .

BRISTOW GROUP INC CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (unaudited, in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Three Months Ended

Favorable/

(Unfavorable)

December 31,

2021

September 30,

2021













Revenues:









Operating revenues $ 285,010

$ 290,120

$ (5,110) Reimbursable revenues 10,609

11,464

(855) Total revenues 295,619

301,584

(5,965)











Costs and expenses:









Operating expenses 221,875

218,768

(3,107) Reimbursable expenses 10,561

11,188

627 General and administrative expenses 40,966

38,970

(1,996) Merger-related costs 34

647

613 Restructuring costs 17

117

100 Depreciation and amortization 17,223

17,644

421 Total costs and expenses 290,676

287,334

(3,342)











Loss on impairment 

(2,901)

2,901 Gain on disposal of assets 727

162

565 Earnings (losses) from unconsolidated affiliates, net (860)

964

(1,824) Operating income 4,810

12,475

(7,665)











Interest income 36

42

(6) Interest expense (10,230)

(10,426)

196 Loss on extinguishment of debt 

(124)

124 Reorganization items, net (29)

(103)

74 Other, net 3,969

15,330

(11,361) Total other income (expense), net (6,254)

4,719

(10,973) Income (loss) before benefit (expense) for income taxes (1,444)

17,194

(18,638) Income tax benefit (expense) 1,608

(14,484)

16,092 Net income 164

2,710

(2,546) Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (220)

65

(285) Net income (loss) attributable to Bristow Group Inc $ (56)

$ 2,775

$ (2,831)











Basic income (loss) per common share $ 

$ 0.10



Diluted income (loss) per common share $ 

$ 0.10















Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic 28,214,650

28,233,527



Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted 28,214,650

28,684,660















EBITDA $ 26,009

$ 45,264

$ (19,255) Adjusted EBITDA $ 31,402

$ 44,710

$ (13,308) Adjusted EBITDA excluding asset dispositions $ 30,675

$ 44,548

$ (13,873)

Bristow Group Inc. Lines of Service

Beginning in fiscal year 2022, the revenues by line of service tables have been modified to more accurately reflect how management views the Company's lines of service. These changes include the addition of a Government services line of service which includes revenues from U.K. SAR, the U.S. Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement ("BSEE"), and other government contracts. In addition, our Other activities and services ("other" services) will now reflect revenues derived from leasing aircraft to non-governmental third party operators, oil and gas contracts that do not materially fit into one of the three major oil and gas operating regions and other services as they arise. As such, operating revenues from Asia Pacific oil and gas services are now shown under other services following the exit of that line of service in the Asia Pacific region. Prior period amounts will not match the previously reported amounts by individual lines of service. Management believes this change provides more relevant information needed to understand and analyze the Company's current lines of service.

BRISTOW GROUP INC REVENUES BY LINE OF SERVICE (unaudited, in thousands)









Three Months Ended

December 31,

2021

September 30,

2021 Oil and gas services:





Europe $ 88,278

$ 93,420 Americas 91,834

84,207 Africa 14,822

16,054 Total oil and gas services 194,934

193,681 Government services 66,435

69,742 Fixed wing services 20,509

23,501 Other services 3,132

3,196

$ 285,010

$ 290,120

FLIGHT HOURS BY LINE OF SERVICE (unaudited)









Three Months Ended

December 31,

2021

September 30,

2021 Oil and gas services:





Europe 10,701

11,189 Americas 11,263

10,376 Africa 1,935

2,258 Total oil and gas services 23,899

23,823 Government services 3,581

4,212 Fixed wing services 3,428

3,687

30,908

31,722

BRISTOW GROUP INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands)

December 31,

2021

March 31,

2021 ASSETS (unaudited)



Current assets:





Cash and cash equivalents $ 277,462

$ 231,079 Accounts receivable 177,102

215,620 Inventories 88,487

92,180 Assets held for sale 5,432

14,750 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 27,981

32,119 Total current assets 576,464

585,748 Property and equipment 1,086,177

1,090,094 Accumulated depreciation (133,595)

(85,535) Net property and equipment 952,582

1,004,559 Investment in unconsolidated affiliates 18,596

37,530 Right-of-use assets 213,840

246,667 Other assets 103,307

117,766 Total assets $ 1,864,789

$ 1,992,270







LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY





Current liabilities:





Accounts payable $ 60,305

$ 69,542 Accrued liabilities 214,997

219,613 Short-term borrowings and current maturities of long-term debt 13,125

15,965 Total current liabilities 288,427

305,120 Long-term debt, less current maturities 517,687

527,528 Deferred taxes 39,883

42,430 Long-term operating lease liabilities 140,841

167,718 Deferred credits and other liabilities 33,639

50,831 Total liabilities 1,020,477

1,093,627







Redeemable noncontrolling interests 

1,572 Stockholders' investment





Common stock 303

303 Additional paid-in capital 696,092

687,715 Retained earnings 215,533

227,011 Treasury shares, at cost (51,083)

(10,501) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (16,142)

(6,915) Total Bristow Group Inc. stockholders' investment 844,703

897,613 Noncontrolling interests (391)

(542) Total stockholders' investment 844,312

897,071 Total liabilities, and stockholders' equity $ 1,864,789

$ 1,992,270

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Metrics

The Company's management uses EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to assess the performance and operating results of its business. EBITDA is defined as Earnings before Interest expense, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA further adjusted for certain special items that occurred during the reported period, as noted below. The Company includes EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to provide investors with a supplemental measure of its operating performance. Neither EBITDA nor Adjusted EBITDA is a recognized term under generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. ("GAAP"). Accordingly, they should not be used as an indicator of, or an alternative to, net income as a measure of operating performance. In addition, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not intended to be measures of free cash flow available for management's discretionary use, as they do not consider certain cash requirements, such as debt service requirements. Because the definitions of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA (or similar measures) may vary among companies and industries, they may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures used by other companies.

The following table provides a reconciliation of net income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA (in thousands).



Three Months Ended

December 31,

2021

September 30,

2021 Net income 164

2,710 Depreciation and amortization 17,223

17,644 Interest expense 10,230

10,426 Income tax (benefit) expense (1,608)

14,484 EBITDA $ 26,009

$ 45,264 Special items (1) 5,393

(554) Adjusted EBITDA $ 31,402

$ 44,710 Gains on asset dispositions, net (727)

(162) Adjusted EBITDA excluding asset dispositions $ 30,675

$ 44,548

(1) Special items include the following:



Three Months Ended

December 31,

2021

September 30,

2021 Restructuring costs $ 17

$ 117 Loss on impairment 

2,901 PBH intangible amortization 3,060

3,060 Merger-related costs 34

647 Government grants(2) 

(222) Early extinguishment of debt fees 

124 Bankruptcy-related costs 29

103 Insurance-related proceeds, net 

899 Nonrecurring professional services fees 2,253

817 Bankruptcy-related settlement 

(9,000)

$ 5,393

$ (554)







(2) COVID-19 related government relief grants

Adjusted Free Cash Flow Reconciliation

Free Cash Flow represents the Company's net cash provided by operating activities plus proceeds from disposition of property and equipment, less expenditures related to purchases of property and equipment. Adjusted Free Cash Flow is Free Cash Flow adjusted to exclude nonrecurring professional services fees, costs paid in relation to the Merger, the Chapter 11 Cases and government grants related to the Company's fixed wing services. Management believes that the use of Adjusted Free Cash Flow is meaningful as it measures the Company's ability to generate cash from its business after excluding cash payments for special items. Management uses this information as an analytical indicator to assess the Company's liquidity and performance. However, investors should note numerous methods may exist for calculating a company's free cash flow. As a result, the method used by management to calculate Adjusted Free Cash Flow may differ from the methods used by other companies to calculate their free cash flow.

The following table provides a reconciliation of net cash provided by operating activities, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, to Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Free Cash Flow (in thousands).



Three Months Ended

December 31,

2021

September 30,

2021 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 45,083

$ 36,753 Plus: Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment 740

3,188 Less: Purchases of property and equipment (5,920)

(14,338) Free Cash Flow $ 39,903

$ 25,603 Plus: Restructuring costs 92

178 Plus: Merger-related costs 8

2,212 Plus: Bankruptcy-related costs 108

244 Plus: Nonrecurring professional services fees 1,764

 Less: Bankruptcy-related settlement 

(9,000) Less: Government grants (61)

(161) Adjusted Free Cash Flow $ 41,814

$ 19,076 Net (proceeds from)/purchases of property and equipment ("Net Capex") 5,180

11,150 Adjusted Free Cash Flow excluding Net Capex $ 46,994

$ 30,226

BRISTOW GROUP INC FLEET COUNT (unaudited)

































Number of Aircraft







Type

Owned Aircraft

Leased Aircraft

Aircraft Held For

Sale

Consolidated

Aircraft

Max

Pass Capacity

Average

Age

(years)(1) Heavy Helicopters:























S-92

36

21



57

19

13 S-92 U.K. SAR

3

7



10

19

7 H225





2

2

19

11 AW189

6

1



7

16

6 AW189 U.K. SAR

11





11

16

5



56

29

2

87







Medium Helicopters:























AW139

51

6



57

12

11 S-76 C+/C++

16





16

12

14 S-76D

8





8

12

8 B212

2





2

12

40



77

6



83







LightTwin Engine Helicopters:























AW109

4





4

7

15 EC135

10





10

6

13



14





14







LightSingle Engine Helicopters:























AS350

17





17

4

24 AW119

13





13

7

15



30





30

































Total Helicopters

177

35

2

214





13 Fixed wing

6

8



14







UAV



2



2







Total Fleet

183

45

2

230











(1) Reflects the average age of helicopters that are owned.

The chart below presents the number of aircraft in our fleet and their distribution among the regions in which we operate as of December 31, 2021 and the percentage of operating revenue that each of our regions provided during the Current Quarter.





Percentage of Current Quarter Operating Revenue



























UAV

Fixed Wing







Heavy

Medium

Light Twin

Light

Single Total Europe

54 %

63

12



3

2



80 Americas

35 %

20

57

14

27





118 Asia Pacific

6 %











12

12 Africa

5 %

4

14







2

20 Total

100 %

87

83

14

30

2

14

230

SOURCE Bristow Group
HOUSTON, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE: TRGP) (Targa or the Company) announced today that it has executed agreements selling its wholly-owned subsidiary that holds a 25 percent equity interest in the Gulf Coast Express Pipeline (GCX) for $857 million. Targa expects to receive the full proceeds from the sale in the second quarter of 2022 following a customary call right period in favor of the other members of GCX.



J.P. Morgan is serving as Targas financial advisor and Vinson & Elkins LLP is acting as Targas legal counsel on the transaction.

About Targa Resources Corp.

Targa Resources Corp. is a leading provider of midstream services and is one of the largest independent midstream infrastructure companies in North America. The Company owns, operates, acquires, and develops a diversified portfolio of complementary midstream infrastructure assets and its operations are essential to the efficient, safe, and reliable delivery of energy across the United States and increasingly to the world. The Companys assets connect natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGLs) to domestic and international markets with growing demand for cleaner fuels and feedstocks. The Company is primarily engaged in the business of: gathering, compressing, treating, processing, transporting, and purchasing and selling natural gas; transporting, storing, fractionating, treating, and purchasing and selling NGLs and NGL products, including services to LPG exporters; and gathering, storing, terminaling, and purchasing and selling crude oil.

Targa is a FORTUNE 500 company and is included in the S&P 400.

For more information, please visit the Companys website at www.targaresources.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this release are 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. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions concerning future events and are subject to a number of uncertainties, factors and risks, many of which are outside the Companys control, which could cause results to differ materially from those expected by management of the Company. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, weather, political, economic and market conditions, including a decline in the price and market demand for natural gas, natural gas liquids and crude oil, the impact of pandemics such as COVID-19, actions by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC oil producing countries, the timing and success of business development efforts, and other uncertainties. These and other applicable uncertainties, factors and risks are described more fully in the Companys filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, and any subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact the Company's investor relations department by email at

InvestorRelations@targaresources.com or by phone at (713) 584-1133.

Sanjay Lad

Vice President, Finance & Investor Relations

Jennifer Kneale

Chief Financial Officer
The United States has obtained intelligence indicating that Russia has formed a plan to stage a false attack, which would serve as justification for an invasion of Ukraine, according to the U.S. State Department and U.S. officials quoted in news reports on February 3.

The officials said the plan was revealed in declassified intelligence shared with Ukrainian officials and European allies in recent days.

The plan potentially included videos showing a staged attack depicting the graphic aftermath of an explosion, including equipment appearing to belong to Ukraine or allied nations, said an unidentified official.

"This video, if released, could provide Putin the spark he needs to initiate and justify military operations against Ukraine, the official said. This would include the possibility of having separatist leaders in eastern Ukraine invite a Russian intervention.

The U.S. deputy national-security adviser, Jonathan Finer, said in an interview that the U.S. didnt know for sure Russia would take such a route, "but we know that this is an option under consideration."

Finer told U.S. broadcaster MSNBC that it would involve actors playing mourners and corpses to represent bodies of people purportedly killed.

State Department spokesman Ned Price confirmed that U.S. intelligence has gathered the information. He told reporters that the United States is publicizing it to lay bare the extent of Russia's destabilizing actions toward Ukraine and to dissuade Russia from continuing what Price said was a dangerous campaign.

Officials did not release any direct evidence of the plan or say how they learned of it because they did not want to risk compromising their sources and methods. It also was not clear that senior Russian officials had approved the operation.

A British government official quoted by The New York Times said the United Kingdom had done its own analysis of the intelligence and had high confidence that Russia was planning to engineer a pretext to blame Ukraine for an attack. The details of the intelligence, the official said, are credible and extremely concerning.

The allegation is the latest by the U.S. and Britain that Russia is plotting to use a false pretext to go to war against Ukraine after amassing more than 100,000 troops near its border with its neighbor.

In December the White House accused Moscow of developing a false-flag operation to create pretext for an invasion, and Britain recently named Ukrainians it accused of having ties to Russian intelligence officers plotting to overthrow Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, MSNBC, and The New York Times
GENEVA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Despite its record high new COVID-19 infection figures, Switzerland on Thursday lifted the requirements to work from home and to quarantine after contact with an infected person.

The Swiss government has also proposed to further ease other pandemic-related restrictions later, but the final decision is expected to be made on Feb. 16.

The Swiss Federal Council said in a statement that the decision was made because hospitals in the country have not been overburdened and the occupancy of intensive care units has fallen further.

"This is probably due to the high level of immunity among the population thanks to vaccination and recovery from COVID-19," the government statement said.

"In addition, Omicron is causing fewer cases of severe illness than previous virus variants. There are increasing signs that the acute crisis will soon be over, and the endemic phase could begin," it added.

However, the Swiss Federal Council stressed that "there is still a need to remain cautious," and that it is important to continue to follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing, observe the relevant precautionary measures -- and, if possible, to get vaccinated.

Switzerland is currently undergoing another wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the number of new daily coronavirus infections reaching unprecedented highs due to the Omicron variant.

According to the authorities, 36,740 new cases were reported on Thursday for the previous 24-hour period. To date, more than 12,200 people have died from COVID-19 in Switzerland, which has a population of 8.6 million. 
The president of the Senate, Florin Citu, on Thursday received the ambassador of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to Romania, Andrew Noble.

According to a press release sent by the Senate to AGERPRES, discussions were focused both on the Romanian-British collaboration in political, economic, security and defence, energy, social and cultural plan, and on boosting cooperation at the level of bilateral parliamentary diplomacy, which, alongside the one from the government area, "can significantly contribute to developing bilateral relations", Florin Citu said.

The Senate president highlighted the special importance that Romania grants to the relation with the United Kingdom, based on the NATO membership and the existing Strategic Partnership between the two countries and appreciated the support offered by the British side in Romania's defence plan and NATO's Eastern Flank, highlighted, mainly, by increasing British military presence in the area, Agerpres.ro informs.

Furthermore, according to the quoted source, Florin Citu pleaded for "intensifying and increasing, on pragmatic principles, the connections in the economic, social and cultural plan, which will supplement cooperation in the area of politics, security and defence".
Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed. This world in arms is not spending money alone. It is spending the sweat of its laborers, the hopes genius of its scientists, the hopes of its children. This is not a way of life at all, in any true sense. Under the clouds of war, it is humanity hanging on a cross of iron. - Dwight D. Eisenhower

THE LAST WORDS, a democratically-imbued Ghanaian would wish to hear are a coup, a military coup, a coup d'etat, a putsch, a military take- over. Ghanaians of our generation (sexagenarian: 60-69; septuagenarian: 70-79; octogenarian: 80-89; nonagenarian: 90-99; centenarian: 100-109; super centenarian or ultra centanarian: above 110) will tell you their experiences under military rule. They have an eerie sense of deja vu, and the majority of them would not wish it for Ghana. Take the 24th February 1966 Kotoka coup which overthrew Nkrumah's CPP or the 13th January, 1972 Kutu Acheampong's coup which overthrew Busia's Progress Party  or the 4th June, 1979. Flt Lt Jerry Rawlings's coup (uprising) which overthrew the Supreme Military Council II of Fred Akuffo  or the 31st December, 1981 coup which overthrew Dr. Hilla Limann's People's National Party.

They all seemed to have similar justification based on the all-too familiar catchword phrases: corruption, bad governance, frustration among the general public and lack of discipline (intra- military quarrels) within the Armed Forces of Ghana. People may recall the civilian losses and harangues (demonstrations, mass protests) that characterized the last Rawlings's coup (handing over-to-whom? rhetoric) with a new Constitution in 1992 and Rawlings metamorphosing from soldier to civilian president, running the show for 19+ years- after removing the (P) from the military PNDC (People's National Defence Council) to obtain NDC (National Democratic Congress).

One would have thought that coups d'etat would be seen as relics of the past, but what do we see around us? A coup in Guinea led by the Special Forces man, Mamady Doumbouya on 5th September, 2021. Alpha Conde, the President, had announced in August: tax hikes, a slash in military and police spending and increase in the funding for the office of the President and the National Assembly. On 1st October, 2021, Mamady Doumbouya was sworn in as interim President.

On 25th May, 2021, Mali military man, Colonel Asimi Goita had held President Bah Ndaw and Premier Moctar Ouane hostage while staging a putsch, Goita, who was expecting to be named interim President says he was not consulted about a Cabinet reshuffle. He had overthrown Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in 2020 for his inability to check rising insecurity, rampant corruption, superintending a failing economy and his inability to resolve an ongoing strike.

Then the military, in neighboring Burkina Faso, on 24th January, 2022 hit the road and toppled the democratically elected government of Roch Marc Christian Kabore. Only a few days later, on 30th January, 2022 the military in Guinea-Bissau was said to have staged an insurrection. Why, one would ask? And where is ECOWAS? Would one say ECOWAS is a toothless bull-dog? Or one would ask: Would Allasan Ouattara of Cote d'lvoire have the nerves to chastise any coup leader anywhere, having changed the constitution to run for a 'third term' so, ECOWAS would charge at military coups d'etat but wink at bad civilian governance?

Daily Guide on Thursday, 27th January, 2022 had an editorial headed Uneasy Calm Next Door with an introductory passage The putsch in Burkina Faso not only augments the troubles on the shoulders of our neighbor, it demands of us to be extra vigilant along our porous frontier with that country. This should be very timeous advice (if we are suspicious of the word 'warning') given to our security outfit.

There is a Twi proverb which says: Wote se wo yonko abodwese rehye a, sa nsuo si wo de3 ho (loosely translated: if you hear a neighbor's beard is on fire, put some water close to yours). The said editorial warns: This is not the time for our security agents operating or the Ghana/Burkina frontier to let our guards down. The editorial adds: With Bawku restive and the youth there eager to have fire arms and a security compromised Burkina Faso next door, the ground is fertile for gun-running The conclusion of the editorial takes a swipe at ECOWAS functions, All ECOWAS will do is impose weak sanctions in conference rooms as the power-stealing soldiers dig in and deride the actions of the economic community.

Brigadier Nunoo-Mensah may be described as a 'political flirt,' (between NPP and NDC) but he says it has been difficult to reach out to the President. We pray (whatever opinion one has about his stature and his utterance especially Kwesi Pratt) that the President gives him a hearing. The National Security outfit could serve as a useful link.

The late General Akwasi Amankwaa Afrifa used to lament: I would leave my village (Krobo) and go to Accra to warn the government about agitations of the military but they would not take heed. The result of this intransigence is the Kutu Acheampong's coup of 13th January, 1972.

Meanwhile, the President is enjoined to issue strong advice (if 'warning' appears too strong) to all government officials and ministries, agencies, departments to be alert, and ensure they go about their functions dutifully and without a trace of corruption and other malfeasances.

The late Bob Cole used to sing: Edwen se ereye me a, see na ereye woara wo ho (loosely translated: You think you are spurning or scorning me, you are mistreating yourself). There should not be any bigotry.

Our history teaches us that all Ghanaians are one people; there is a line of blood relationship, one with the other, among all the tribes in Ghana. We need to tackle youth unemployment seriously  the clock is ticking: no time to think of avoiding an 'ECOWAS spring'.

[email protected]

From Africaus Owusu-Ansah
Derry Chamber President, Aidan O'Kane has called for those in Government to put the people of Northern Ireland first after the news today (February 3) that DUP's MLA Paul Givan is to resign as First Minister.

Commenting on the resignation, Mr O'Kane said: Political instability like this does nothing for anybody in Northern Ireland. We had an absent Assembly for three years recently and it served no positive purpose for anyone in our communities.

"It does nothing for our hospital waiting lists, currently the worst in the entirety of the UK; it does nothing for families struggling with the exponential rise in the cost of living; it does nothing to tackle the ongoing pandemic; and it does nothing to support our businesses as they look to rebuild and recover.

Northern Ireland deserves a better politics, one which isnt characterised by lurching from one crisis to another on a regular basis.

"This place will only thrive when our political leaders commit to grown up politics, based on mutual respect and collaboration.

"Businesses in the North West need - and demand - certainty and stability. There are a number of outstanding commitments which our region must see completed including the expansion of Magee to 10,000 students, increased and improved rail provision, the financial sustainability of our regional airport, the completion of the A5, and the full roll-out of the City Deal projects  an absent or hamstrung Executive delivers nothing for the North West.

The Chamber calls on all our political parties to commit to ensuring this certainty which business and society craves, and to work together in a collaborative fashion to overcome any issues.
The European Union said Thursday it would resume its military training mission in the Central African Republic providing the country's soldiers stop working for the Russian paramilitary group Wagner.

French General Jacques Langlade de Mongros, the mission's outgoing commander, told AFP in mid-December that he put a temporary halt to the programme "because of the control exerted by Wagner mercenaries" over the CAR troops.

The EU slapped sanctions on eight individuals and three companies associated with Wagner, accusing them of "destabilising actions" in Ukraine and several African countries.

Around 70 European instructors returned to their respective home countries for the hiatus.

In December 2020, several hundred Russian paramilitaries helped regular CAR troops crush an attempt by rebels to overthrow President Faustin-Archange Touadera.

The UN accused both sides in the fighting of human rights abuses.

"The first condition is to have the guarantee that the units that we are training are not employed by Wagner" but solely by the CAR government, Herve Blejean, head of the EU general staff, told a news conference on Thursday.

Afterwards, General Montgros handed the reins of the training mission over to General Jacky Cabo of Belgium during a ceremony attended by Touadera at a military base near the Bangui airport.

Moscow has not officially acknowledged the presence of 1,135 "unarmed instructors" in the poor landlocked country since 2013.

"I'm not talking about Russian instructors," Blejean said. "What bothers us are the mercenaries... who do not respect the republican values championed" by Touadera.

Several thousand CAR soldiers have received EU training since the programme began in 2016.
Romania's Chief of the Defense Staff, General Daniel Petrescu, states that the arrival in our country of 1,000 U.S. troops from Germany is "an important defensive measure, a direct contribution of the United States to strengthening Romania's defense amid the current security context in the region."

"As per the Pentagon's recent announcement, a contingent of about 1,000 U.S. troops currently stationed in Germany and endowed with Stryker armored personnel carriers will be temporarily deployed to Romania. We have been and are in constant contact with the American partner for the redeployment to take place in the coming days; the final details are already being clarified. The arrival of the 1,000 servicemen who will join the American troops already present in Romania is an important defensive measure, a direct contribution of the United States to strengthening Romania's defense amid the current security environment in our region. At the same time, this sends a strong signal about the solidarity and determination wherewith the Alliance is implementing measures to strengthen the Allied deterrence and defense posture against any aggression along its entire eastern flank," the head of the Defense Staff wrote on Facebook on Thursday, Agerpres.ro informs.

He thanked his U.S. counterpart, General Mark A. Milley "for the excellent cooperation in identifying the most appropriate Allied defensive measures to strengthen the eastern flank, in particular for substantiating this imminent deployment," the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Tod D. Wolters, and the Commander of the U.S. Army Europe and Africa, General Christopher G. Cavoli, "for their involvement in ensuring cooperation over time that has led to increased security measures in the Black Sea region."

"At Defense Staff level, we coordinate our actions with peer allied structures, within NATO and bilaterally, in order to strengthen our collective defense capabilities. All the measures we will take are eminently defensive and adjusted to the potential threats in our area of responsibility," General Petrescu underscores.
FILE PHOTO: Steve Dickson, Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, speaks at the UK Aviation Club about the Boeing 737 MAX, in London, Britain, February 6, 2020. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls/File Photo

By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. lawmakers on Thursday blasted two federal agencies for failing to avoid an embarrassing last-minute standoff between the aviation and wireless industries over 5G C-Band deployment and airplane interference, with the head of the Federal Aviation Administration conceding "we need to do better as a country."

FAA Administrator Steve Dickson testified before the House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittee during a hearing in which lawmakers voiced frustration with his agency and the Federal Communications Commission and asked why the standoff was not resolved earlier.

Representative Garret Graves, the subcommittee's top Republican, said the FAA and FCC played "chicken with one another - or whatever ridiculousness happened - and now we ended up threatening aviation safety. We had flights canceled. ... It's embarrassing."

The rollout took place on Jan. 19, but only after Verizon Communications Inc and AT&T Inc agreed to delay deploying about 510 5G wireless towers near airports in light of safety concerns.

Dickson testified that federal agencies need to improve their coordination in such matters because there will be additional spectrum issues in the future.

"The process did not serve anyone well," Dickson said. "It did not serve the aviation community well, certainly the FAA, and it also did not serve the telecommunications industry well. And we certainly need to do better as a country."

The aviation industry and FAA had warned that 5G interference could impact sensitive airplane electronics such as radio altimeters, which gauge the height of an aircraft above terrain immediately below it and are used in low visibility landings.

Airlines CEOs on Jan. 17 had warned of an impending "catastrophic" aviation crisis that could ground almost all traffic because of the 5G deployment. The delay by Verizon and AT&T did not prevent dozens of foreign carriers from canceling international flights to the United States, and it cast the U.S. regulatory system in an ugly light.

"The key to all of this is early and very transparent data exchange," Dickson said, saying this began in earnest between the aviation and wireless industries only in late December.

Dickson said the FAA could have new standards for radio altimeters in about a year. The FAA has cleared 20 altimeter models and approved 90% of the U.S. commercial fleet for landing in low-visibility approaches in areas with C-Band 5G.

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Peter DeFazio, a Democrat, told the hearing that recent events show "the current interagency process for auctioning off spectrum is completely broken."

DeFazio said aviation safety needs must be prioritized.

"Having a dropped call is way less serious than having a dropped airplane out of the sky," DeFazio said.

Wireless industry group CTIA CEO Meredith Attwell Baker said she did not understand "how this didn't get resolved" at least before the December 2020 C-Band auction. She said wireless carriers followed all the rules as they spent $80 billion on the auction to win the spectrum.

FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel was invited to appear on Thursday but could not attend, citing a schedule conflict. Rosenworcel said at a news conference last month that "as we use more of our wireless airways for commercial activity we are going to have to engage in more coordination early and often."

Republican Representative John Katko pressed Dickson on why it took so long for the FAA and FCC to enter into an information-sharing agreement.

"You knew this was bubbling up for a long time," Katko said. "How the hell did we get to the point where we had so much brinkmanship going on with this? We had five years in the making."

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Will Dunham)
A coalition of civil rights, social justice and community organizations led by the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa sent a letter Thursday to the Scott County Board of Supervisors challenging its plans to use federal COVID-19 funds to build a new, larger juvenile detention facility.

The ACLU, in its letter, argues using COVID-19 funds to build the facility is unlawful and that building a new and expanded juvenile detention facility will deepen racial disparities within the juvenile court system.

One out of every 22 Black children is detained in Scott County compared to 1 out of every 457 white children, according to a Sentencing Project analysis of state data collected in 2019.

Statewide, the rate at which Black children are placed in detention in Iowa is more than double the national average. Black children in Iowa are about nine times as likely as their white peers to be placed in juvenile detention, putting Iowa's racial disparity in juvenile detention as the eighth highest in the nation.

"These are deeply disturbing numbers," Mark Stringer, ACLU of Iowa Executive Director, said in a statement. "Scott County should be doing what it can to remedy racial disparities in its treatment of youth, not make them worse."

Scott County Board of Supervisors Chairman Ken Beck and Scott County Juvenile Detention Center Director Jeremy Kaiser did not immediately return messages seeking comment Thursday afternoon.

County officials have argued a 40-bed facility is needed to address overcrowding and long-term juvenile detention capacity needs.

Over the past five years, Scott County has housed an average of roughly 25 juveniles per day between the jail and juvenile detention center, with peaks of up to nearly 40 juveniles.

The JDC has an operational capacity of 14 to 16 beds and a licensed capacity of 18 beds.

When the JDC reaches capacity, the county must spend money to house youths in facilities in other counties, separating them from their families and local support systems. Space constraints also limit detention staff's ability to properly classify and separate juveniles based on the severity of their offense, gender and gang affiliation.

And as of December, any youth awaiting trial as an adult had to be removed from the Scott County Jail under a state and federal mandate, unless a court finds that they cannot be safely held in juvenile detention, necessitating the further need for more space, according to county officials.

"Obviously, we need to listen to the ACLU folks and make decisions from there," Republican Supervisor John Maxwell, a proponent of the plans, said Thursday. "We need to digest this and see how we move forward. We need to show what is best for all citizens of Scott County, and that has got to be in my decision-making process."

Maxwell, though, said he "stands firm" on building a new, larger facility.

"I think keeping our juveniles at home is paramount to this. And I am unwavering when it comes to that," he said. "And I feel that is best for every Scott County citizen."

Asked about the racial disparities noted by the ACLU and others, Maxwell said: "It's silly to think when someone calls 911 that race is involved."

"It's not," he said. "It's a person's decision to do something wrong, and the police or the people of authority come and get involved."

A 2020 report issued by the Iowa Department of Human Rights, however, found that Iowas juvenile justice system increases racial disparities at multiple decision points in the juvenile justice system, including referring children to the juvenile justice system, detaining them and waiving them to adult court.

In 2019, Black children aged 10 to 17 years old were 6.5 times more likely to enter the juvenile justice system for simple misdemeanor offenses compared with white children. And between 2015 and 2019, the number of Black children placed in juvenile detention for probation violations increased 31% while the number of white children decreased by 28.4%.

Black children in Iowa were also 9.8 times more likely to have their case waived to adult court compared with white children, and were 14.3 times more likely to have their case directly filed in adult court compared with white children.

Maxwell and fellow Republican Supervisor Tony Knobbe also said the county had worked to expand diversion, restorative justice and prevention programs in recent years.

Knobbe pointed to the county's school-based restorative justice and auto theft accountability victim-offender mediation programs, and the county's $700,000 commitment to the Youth Assessment Program run by Family Resources. The latter is aimed at connecting youth and families to preventative behavioral and mental health services to lower juvenile crime, by providing assessment, referral and case management services.

Knobbe added: "We've checked with all legal and accounting authorities up from us and we've gotten a green light from all of them."

'Do the right thing'

Supervisors have given preliminary approval to spend more than $7 million of the $33.6 million allocated to the county as part of the American Rescue Plan Act to build a planned 40-bed Youth Justice & Rehabilitation Center estimated to cost $21.75 million.

The funds were specified by the Department of the Treasury to aid state, local and tribal governments in responding to the impact of COVID-19 and their efforts to contain COVID-19 in their communities, residents, and businesses.

The ACLU, in its letter, argues building a new, expanded juvenile detention center that predates the pandemic violates U.S. Department of Treasury regulations governing the use of the funds.

The Department of the Treasury issued a final rule last month stating the use of funds to respond to public health and negative economic impacts of the pandemic must be related and reasonably proportional to a harm caused or exacerbated by the pandemic." And expressly stated construction of new correctional facilities and new congregate facilities to decrease spread of COVID-19 were ineligible, "because such construction is generally expected to be more costly than alternative approaches or capital expenditures that may be equally or more effective in decreasing spread of the disease."

Scott County officials  including the Scott County Attorney's Office  and external auditor Baker Tilly contend governments that report revenue losses to the Treasury have the option of using some of their American Rescue Plan money on government services that might not otherwise be eligible under Treasury rules, including juvenile detention.

County Budget Director David Farmer said the opinion was based on guidance from the Treasury, Iowa State Association of Counties and National Association of Counties.

Farmer noted the Treasury Department had advised recipients "have broad latitude to use funds for government services up to their amount of revenue loss due to the pandemic."

Scott County, however, has financially weathered the pandemic well. While some county revenues have declined, others have exceeded expectations, Farmer said. And county officials initially did not anticipate a net loss large enough to qualify to use federal dollars to replace lost revenue under the interim rules.

However, the final rules states recipients may elect a "standard allowance" of $10 million to spend on government services, regardless of whether they lost that much revenue.

The final rule states the Treasury "presumes" local governments lost up to $10 million in revenue because of the pandemic "based on an extensive analysis of average revenue loss across states and localities." And recipients are permitted to use that amount to fund government services, rather than calculate their actual revenue loss.

However, the ACLU and others contend building a 40-bed facility goes against the recommendation of state officials and national juvenile justice experts.

"Best practice is to focus new dollars and reforms on preventing children from entering the juvenile justice system in the first place, not to increase the incarceration of children," Stringer wrote in the letter to Scott County officials. "Rather than invest millions of dollars in expanding Scott Countys ability to warehouse children who enter the juvenile delinquency system in Iowa, Scott County should focus on reducing the overall number of children in the system and reducing racial disparities."

That includes making critical community investments in mental health counseling, violence prevention and restorative justice.

"We call upon the Scott County Board of Supervisors to do the right thing," Stringer said. "We ask the board to change course."

Should it not, the ACLU warns it will lodge a complaint with U.S. Department of Treasury and Office of Inspector General about the misuse of ARPA funds, in violation of the law, exposing the county "to the serious risk of federal enforcement action requiring it to reimburse the Treasury Department."

The letter delivered to the Scott County Board of Supervisors was signed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Iowa, Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Iowa Justice Action Network, Iowa-Nebraska NAACP, One Iowa, Regret No Opportunities, Iowa Coalition for Collective Change and The Sentencing Project.
By Tina Bellon

AUSTIN, Texas (Reuters) - Tesla Inc on Wednesday applied for a permit to extend its existing Austin-based car factory with a building to produce cathodes for battery manufacturing, according to city filings and a spokeswoman.

An application submitted on Wednesday for an Austin building permit under the program name "Cathode" listed the Colorado River Project LLC as a co-applicant. That is the name Tesla has used throughout the permitting process for its new Texas factory on the state and local level.

"I can confirm that this is for the Tesla project and this permit is for a cathode building," a spokeswoman for the city's development services department said on Thursday, adding that the city did not have further information.

News site Electrek first reported on the filing on Thursday.

The new building would extend Tesla's existing vehicle factory located on the eastern outskirts of Austin near the airport. According to the city filing, it would have the size of nearly 1.6 million square feet.

The electric carmaker began manufacturing vehicles at the factory on the eastern outskirts of Austin earlier this year. Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk in September said Tesla plans to build a cathode facility as part of its battery cell production plant.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality on Jan. 20 approved Tesla's vehicle manufacturing site. The carmaker still has several other permits pending with the commission, which needs to provide air quality permits for polluting manufacturing sites.

In 2020 filings with the Commission, Tesla said its emissions sources for battery cell production would include anode and cathode mixing dust.

Cathodes are the single most expensive component of a battery and producing them requires lots of space and emits large quantities of CO2 emissions.

(Reporting by Tina Bellon in Austin, Texas; Editing by Alistair Bell)
MADISON  More than 200 municipalities, Racine included, accepted donations from a well-funded Chicago nonprofit to fund election efforts ahead of the 2020 election that Joe Biden ended up winning.

Numerous court decisions have affirmed these donations were legal, even though democratic-leaning cities (namely Racine, Kenosha, Green Bay, Madison and Milwaukee) received much more money both in total and per capita than other communities. Wisconsin Republicans passed a bill last year that would have banned cities, towns, villages and counties from accepting private grants or donations to fund the carrying out of elections, but Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, vetoed it in June 2021.

Now, Republicans are looking to constitutionally ban such donations. Under a plan proposed Wednesday, it would become unconstitutional in Wisconsin for governments to accept private grant money to help administer elections. By constitutionally banning such practices, the governor will have no power to stop it.

Democrats dont have enough votes to stop passage of the amendment this session. The next Legislature, the makeup of which will be determined in Novembers election, would also have to approve the measure before it is put to voters, although it is expected that Republicans will maintain majorities in both houses while the governors chair is more of a toss-up.

Republican gubernatorial frontrunner Rebecca Kleefisch has indicated she would sign conservative-backed changes to Wisconsin election laws on day one if she is able to unseat Evers in Novembers election.

Its the latest front in the ongoing battle over how to run elections in the presidential battleground state.

Such a ban could not be put in place until next year, because constitutional amendments have to pass two consecutive sessions of the Legislature and be approved in a statewide vote. As such, that could be done in 2023, putting it in effect before the 2024 presidential election.

The proposed amendment addresses a Republican complaint about grant money that came to Wisconsin in 2020 from the Center for Tech and Civic Life, which is funded by Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg and his wife, Priscilla Chan.

Republicans were angered that the bulk of the money went to Democratic cities that voted for Biden, who beat Donald Trump by just under 21,000 votes in Wisconsin. Bidens win has withstood multiple reviews, legal challenges and recounts.

The states five largest cities received just shy of $8.88 million. Another 200-plus communities in Wisconsin received about $1.6 million in combined funding. CTCL gave out more than $350 million nationally in this effort.

CTCL money to Wis. cities Grants to Wisconsin's biggest cities from the Center for Civic and Tech Life in 2020: Racine: $1,699,000 (amount per capita: $21.83) Green Bay: $1,625,600 ($15.14) Milwaukee: $3,409,500 ($5.91) Madison: $1,271,788 ($4.71) Kenosha: $869,545 ($8.70)

Examining how that money was used in Wisconsin is a focus of the ongoing Republican-ordered election investigation being led by former Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman. The Wisconsin Elections Commission in December rejected a challenge to the grant funding. Three other courts this year affirmed that the grants were legal.

In addition to prohibiting the use of grant funding to administer elections, the amendment would also ban anyone who is not employed by state or local government from helping to carry out elections. Michael Spitzer-Rubenstein, a consultant with the National Vote at Home Institute, helped Green Bay officials on election night, work that conservatives have called into question.

The amendment was proposed by three Republican lawmakers: Sen. Eric Wimberger, of Green Bay; and Reps. Tyler Vorpagel, of Plymouth, and Tyler August, of Lake Geneva whose district includes northwestern Kenosha County and the Bohner Lake area of southwester Racine County.

While state statutes never anticipated this situation, these donations still broke the spirit of our election laws, Wimberger, August and Vorpagel said in a memo seeking co-sponsors. Voters need to be able to trust that their local election officials are acting in a non-partisan capacity.

The proposal is part of a large package of Republican election bills being pushed through the Legislature before the end of the current session, expected to adjourn in March. The bills, unlike the constitutional amendment on the grants, can be blocked with an Evers veto.

Those bills:

Would clamp down on who can obtain absentee ballots,

Give a state committee currently controlled by the GOP the power to eliminate staff and cut funding to state agencies, and

Force the elections commission to get legislative approval before spending any federal money.
Washington  The Kansas woman accused of traveling to Syria in support of the Islamic State was ordered detained pending trial on Thursday following her arrest late last month.

Allison Fluke-Ekren, described in charging documents as a mother and teacher-turned ISIS battalion leader, was last in the U.S. on or about January 8, 2011, government travel records show, before ultimately emerging in Syria in 2014.

Once there, according to one of at least six government witnesses who say they interacted with the defendant, Ekren allegedly presented a plan of attack to a paid U.S. foreign government source.

That plan, prosecutors say, was for Ekren and other members of the ISIS community in Syria to "dress like infidels" and attack an American college campus with a backpack full of explosives. The attack was ultimately put on hold, court documents explain.

During an interaction with another government witness in Syria as described in court filings, Ekren is accused of presenting an attack whereby she could park a car full of explosives on the first floor of a parking garage and detonate the bomb with a cellphone trigger.

"Any attack that did not kill a large number of individuals," the described mother of young children allegedly told the government witness, was a "waste of resources."

That attack on the parking garage was also stopped after Ekren's then-husband is said to have objected.

Charging documents describe Ekren's multiple husbands and their alleged connections to the Islamic state. Government witnesses said one of her husbands was "the emirof the snipers for ISIS," another was an ISIS fighter from Bangladesh.

By 2016, according to a government witness, Ekren was pregnant, had children, and was married to the Bangladeshi fighter. In 2014, another informant alleged one of the defendant's children, approximately five or six years old at the time, wielded a machine gun.

Story continues

But it wasn't just her own children among whom Ekren allegedly promoted gun use. She was also the leader of an all-female ISIS battalion and taught women how to defend themselves against ISIS enemies, prosecutors allege.

She was "appointed leader and organizer of an ISIS military battalion located in Syria, known as the Khatiba Nusaybah, in order to train women on the use of automatic firing AK-47 assault rifles, grenades, and suicide belts," a government filing says.

"Fluke-Ekren was 'off the charts' and an '11 or a 12' on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being extremely radicalized," said a government witness as described in court filings. "According to the same witness, over 100 women and young girls received military training from Fluke-Ekren in Syria on behalf of ISIS." Ekren, they wrote, "wanted to die in Syria as a martyr."

As for her American family, prosecutors said on Monday that Ekren's mother, father, stepmother, and two adult children all requested that she not make any contact with them from the Virginia jail in which she is being held.

In court Thursday, Ekren, wearing a green prison uniform, mask, and head covering, did not object to the government's request for her detention.

Prosecutors briefly stated that she worked for "an extremely violent and callous terrorist organization" before Judge Ivan Davis agreed to jail the defendant.

Neither Ekren's defense attorneys nor prosecutors commented on the case following Thursday's hearing.

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The United States eliminated Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, the leader of the Islamic State terrorist group (banned in Russia), in a military operation in northwestern Syria, President Joe Biden said on Thursday

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd February, 2022) The United States eliminated Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, the leader of the Islamic State terrorist group (banned in Russia), in a military operation in northwestern Syria, President Joe Biden said on Thursday.

"Last night at my direction, U.S.

military forces in northwest Syria successfully undertook a counterterrorism operation to protect the American people and our Allies, and make the world a safer place. Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi the leader of ISIS," he said.

Biden added that all Americans have returned safely from the operation.

"I will deliver remarks to the American people later this morning. May God protect our troops," he stated.
Prof. Mawutor Avoke has the Winneba High Court delivered a well reasoned and sound judgment, giving effect to the principle of the rule of law as contained in the preamble of the Constitution of Ghana, 1992.

This was after the Court ruled that he should be restored to Office as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba, on Wednesday, February 2.

Prof Mawutor Avoke and Dr Theophilus Senyo Ackorlie have been reinstated as substantive Vice Chancellor and Finance Director of UEW respectively by the Winneba High Court.

Four other officers who were also affected are reinstated. The decision just being delivered live this morning in Winneba.

They are also to be paid all their salary arrears from the date they were unlawfully removed from their offices to date: July 2017 to February 2022.

In a statement after the court ruling, he said Today, the 2nd day of February 2022, the High Court, Winneba, delivered a well reasoned and sound judgment, giving effect to the principle of the rule of law as contained in the preamble of the Constitution of Ghana, 1992.

He added I believe that as a University, the great UEW has the resources-both financial and human  and the goodwill needed to establish itself as a truly impactful and influential institution of global significance through the diligent efforts of management, staff, students, and all stakeholders. I pledge that upon my return to office in the coming days, I will provide the committed and visionary leadership needed to help the UEW to either achieve or move it closer to achieving its stated purpose.

Below is his full statement

Press Statement by Prof. Mawutor Avoke

on a High Court Decision Restoring him to Office as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba

For Immediate Release

WINNEBA, 2nd February 2022

Today, the 2nd day of February 2022, the High Court, Winneba, delivered a well reasoned and sound judgment, giving effect to the principle of the rule of law as contained in the preamble of the Constitution of Ghana, 1992. The decision came after an application by one Samuel Kweku Ghartey, which application prayed the High Court to, amongst other things, issue:

An order of Prohibition restraining the Defendant University from appointing anyone into the office of Vice  Chancellorship as same is not vacant but meant for resumption of office by Professor Mawutor Avoke, the incumbent Vice -Chancellor.

An order Prohibiting the Respondent University from restraining its officers namely Prof. Mawutor Avoke, Vice Chancellor , Dr. Tophilus Senyo Ackorlie, Finance Officer, Mr. Frank Owusu Boateng, Deputy Finance Officer, Ms. Sena Dake, Internal Auditor, Mary Dzimey, Acting Head of Procurement and lng. Daniel Tetteh, Ag. Deputy Director of Works and Physical Development from resumption of office

A declaratory order that the Respondent University acted in actual bias or strong likelihood of bias in causing the stepping aside from office of Professor Mawutor Avoke and the above named five officers without any prima facie case against them .

An order of mandamus compelling the Governing Council of the Respondent institution to implement the findings the report of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) that investigated six(6) officials of the Respondent institution and the recommendations made by a three (3) member committee set up by the Governing Council of the Respondent university, to reinstate the six(6) officers namely Prof . Mawutor Avoke, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Theophilus Senyo Ackorlie , former finance Officer, Mr. Frank Owusu Boateng, Deputy Finance Officer, Ms. Sena Dake. Internal Auditor. Ms Mary Dzimey, Acting Head of Procurement and lng. Daniel Tetteh Ag. Deputy Director of Works and Physical Development who were exonerated by the reports of the two (2) bodies referred to above.

An order compelling the Governing Council of the Respondent institution to allow the six (6) officers namely: Prof. Mawutor Avoke, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Theophilus Senyo Ackorlie, Finance Officer, Mr. Frank Owusu Boateng, Deputy Finance Officer, Ms. Sena Dake, Internal Auditor, Mary Dzimey , Acting Head of Procurement and Ing. Daniel Tetteh, Ag. Deputy Director of Works and Physical Development of the Respondent institution, who were exonerated by Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) and the three (3) member committee set up by the Governing Council of the Respondent institution, to allow and permit the six (6) officers to work in their respective positions without inhibition.

An order of perpetual injunction restraining the Respondent institution acting through the Governing Council from obstructing the six(6) officers, namely Prof. Mawutor Avoke, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Theophilus Senyo Ackorlie, Finance Officer, Mr. Frank Owusu Boateng; Deputy Finance Officer, Ms. Sena Dake, Internal Auditor, Mary Dzimey, Acting Head of Procurement and Ing. Daniel Tetteh, Ag. Deputy Director of Works and Physical Development access to their respective offices.

An order restraining the Respondent institution from proceeding to appoint a New Vice Chancellor until the final determination of this suit.

In summary, the court, at a sitting today, ordered the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), where I once served as Vice-Chancellor, to restore me to the office to serve the remainder of my interrupted term as Vice-Chancellor. Consequently, I genuinely expect that in the coming days, I will return to the office and perform all the duties that come with the office of Vice Chancellor for the next two years.

Indeed, while I consider this judicial determination a total and final vindication of my position regarding the divisive issues that founded my removal from office, I am clear and certain in my mind that I will not boast over the outcome, no matter how reliving and joyous the judgment may seem. Instead, and with the help of the almighty God, I intend to work every day with all the genuineness of heart, skill, and diligence at my disposal to ensure that complete and total reconciliation is done between me and all the persons who may seem to have been vanquished by today's judicial determination.

In making this humble declaration, I draw firm and complete inspiration from Nelson Mandela, an African icon who once said, Reconciliation does not mean forgetting or trying to bury the pain of conflict, but that reconciliation means working together to correct the legacy of past injustice.

Further, as a distinguished peacemaker, the late Mandela also once said: Forgiveness liberates the soul, it removes fear. That's why it's such a powerful weapon.

In my view, the above quotes should remind us all of the need to put the bitter past behind us and work together honestly and diligently in the continuous journey to build the UEW into a respectable African institution of higher learning with an unyielding knack for global excellence, groundbreaking research pedigree and reach. It is in doing this and more that the UEW will be deemed to have achieved its true and stated purpose.

To conclude, I believe that as a University, the great UEW has the resources-both financial and human  and the goodwill needed to establish itself as a truly impactful and influential institution of global significance through the diligent efforts of management, staff, students, and all stakeholders. I pledge that upon my return to office in the coming days, I will provide the committed and visionary leadership needed to help the UEW to either achieve or move it closer to achieving its stated purpose.

May God Bless Our Homeland, Ghana.

Signed

Prof Mawutor Avoke

-3news.com
Nick Cannon has apologized for any 'extra pain and confusion' he may have caused the mothers of his children when announcing baby number eight after the loss of his five-month-old son Zen.

Cannon, 41, revealed he was expecting a child with model Bre Tiesi on Monday and acknowledged the loss of his son Zen, who passed after a battle with brain cancer in December, in his announcement.

But speaking on his eponymous talk show on Thursday, Cannon admitted he had misspoken and had 'probably' gone into 'too much detail' expressing his emotions.

'It felt like I was probably making some comparatives or probably discussing when talking about the passing of my son Zen and then also talking about the new child that I'm expecting. I didn't have to do that. I didn't need to do that,' he said.

'I misspoke': Nick Cannon has apologized for any 'extra pain and confusion' he may have caused when announcing baby number eight after the loss of his five-month-old son Zen

Nick started his apology by stating: 'I actually would like to take a moment just to be honest and even take a moment to listen and reflect on what I was saying and what's popping and apologize properly.

'I wish to always protect and respect the privacy of the mothers of all my children and you know me. I just really want to be sincere and whether that's someone who's new or someone who's had my child and I have such a great relationship and great admiration for everyone in my life.

'I believe I probably, no, I failed to do so on Monday because it was a lot going on. I didn't know how to explain it, I didn't know what to say, so I was probably talking too fast and probably misspoke and I know I could do better when dealing with delicate and sensitive discussions.

'So I promise you, I promise the mothers of my children, I promise my family that I would do better, continue to be more understanding, caring, compassionate like they often show me, each and every day through these processes.'

Baby makes eight! Cannon is currently expecting his eighth child with model Bre Tiesi

Heartbreak: Nick and Alyssa Scott lost their five-month-old child Zen last year following a battle with brain cancer

Cannon admitted he had misspoken and 'probably went too much into detail on Monday expressing my feelings and it felt like I was probably making some comparatives or probably discussing when talking about the passing of my son Zen and then also talking about the new child that I am expecting.

'I didn't have to do that, I didn't need to do that 'cause those are two completely separate moments in my life and in life and they both deserve the respect that they are. Grieving is a process, and I'm still grieving, each and every single day, and myself and Alyssa, our family we still deal with that. And I know it seems awkward because people try and do the timing and none of that matters.

'You know, we lost a child. And it is a sincere and still is a sincere situation. And I love her, I love my son Zen, and I always will. And I'm going to love my new child, and I'm going to love every child from that point on. I'm a responsible human being, I take full responsibility for everything so I must say I sincerely apologize to everyone involved for any extra pain or confusion that I may have caused.'

'So I promise you, I promise the mothers of my children, I promise my family that I would do better, continue to do be more understanding, caring, compassionate like they often show me, each and every day through these processes,' he said

'Grieving is a process': The actor said he was 'still grieving' the loss of Zen

News of his eighth child emerged after photos of Nick and Bre hosting a gender reveal party emerged.

When confirming his expanding family on Monday, Nick admitted he grappled with how to announce the pregnancy in light of Zen.

'I've known about Bre's pregnancy for a while now, before my youngest son Zen past in December. And so even going through all of that, this was always in the back of my mind. When's the right time, how do I share this?

'We didn't expect Zen to pass away. All of the news was so unexpected, to kind of figure out a chronological order of hierarchy, it kept me up at night.

'She held off making her announcement': Cannon said Bre didn't announce the pregnancy out of respect for Alyssa

'I always talk about the guilt that I feel in losing Zen and even how to deal with this with my other children. That was a lot of the guilt as well. The guilt for everyone involved and I just really want to say "thank you" to every one of my family members who just been so understanding and helping me through this process.'

'I wanted to definitely respect the grieving process with Alyssa and Bre was respectful enough to - she held off making her announcement and speaking on social media. She's a very, you know, in the public eye type of person but keeps her stuff private as well.

'And it was just one of those things - I didn't know what to do. I didn't know to say it when I was dealing with Zen or to hold off. Even right now that it came out yesterday, that wasn't planned to talk about it,' he said of the gender reveal snaps.

'We wanted to hold on for as long as we can. But it happened. We here. And I'm with my family, I get to discuss it, I get to be open.'

After Nick announced the baby news, Alyssa posted a statement to Instagram where she said it was 'painful' seeing her son included in conversations 'that aren't in alignment with his light and legacy.'

Speaking up: After Nick announced the baby news, Alyssa posted a statement to Instagram where she said it was 'painful' seeing her son included in conversations 'that aren't in alignment with his light and legacy'

'I want to thank every single person who has messaged or thought of me over the course of these last few months,' she posted to Instagram. 'I always say Zen expanded my heart in ways I never thought possible. He filled that space with compassion, knowing I would need that most.

'It is painful having my son be apart of conversation that aren't in alignment with his light and legacy. It isn't something I chose for him or myself. It's important for me to let you all know.. I am centered, I am at peace. I look at everyone's predicament with loving eyes. I will not judge.

'I will consciously decide what I will participate in. I am surrounded by love. God, my mom, dad, sister brother and daughter continue to carry me.'

Cannon also shares seven-month-old twin sons Zion Mixolydian and Zillion Heir with DJ Abby De La Rosa.

The All That vet also has daughter Powerful Queen, 13 months, and son Golden Sagon, nearly five, with Miss Guam 2014 Brittany Bell.

The actor also shares 10-year-old fraternal twins Moroccan and Monroe with his ex-wife, Mariah Carey.
Lake James State Park saw a 35% increase in visitors from 2020 to 2021 despite the COVID-19 pandemic. And with the opening of a new visitor center and bridge this spring, the number of visitors at the park should be even greater.

North Carolinas state parks and recreation areas experienced a record number of visitors in 2021. The 41 sites in the North Carolina state parks system welcomed 22.8 million visitors last year  3 million more than any other year on record.

The previous record for statewide visitation was set in 2020 when, despite the early pandemic and several weeks of closures at many parks, the state parks welcomed 19.8 million visitors. Ten parks reached 1 million visitors in 2021, up from seven parks in 2020, according to a news release.

Were fortunate to live in a state with beautiful natural resources and our 41 state parks saw more visits than ever last year, said Gov. Roy Cooper. We must maintain and improve these amazing parks so millions more people can enjoy all North Carolina has to offer.

North Carolinians in 2021 showed us how much they value state parks and trails to enhance their physical and mental health, said Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Reid Wilson. Fortunately, the new state budget invests heavily in new state and local parks, trails, and greenways to meet growing public demand.

Located in both McDowell and Burke counties, Lake James State Park (LJSP) offers opportunities for boating, swimming and fishing in the 6,812-acre lake. The park has 25 miles of trails, 15 of which are open to mountain biking. The trails vary from the short, educational Holly Discovery Trail with child-friendly activities, to the more adventurous, historic section of the Overmountain Victory Trail. The park has three campgrounds, according to online resources.

LJSP has been one of the most popular ones in the state park system and this remained so during the COVID pandemic, according to Park Superintendent Nora Coffey.

Lake James State Park reported 648,086 visitors in 2019, Coffey told The McDowell News. In 2020, when COVID hit, we closed for two months, our swim beach never opened, and we still reported 468,589 visitors. In 2021, we updated our traffic counters and how we collect the data. Although we seemed busier, our number was a bit less than 2019. We feel confident that the numbers we are now collecting are more accurate than ever.

These numbers should increase even more this year as LJSP gets ready to open its new visitor center and Cove Bridge.

We saw a bigger increase to our weekday visitation in both the campgrounds and day use areas, to include the swim beach and boat ramps, said Coffey. With the new facilities opening up this year and the new additions to our staff, we look forward to welcoming folks out to the park this coming season. We hope to be opening the visitor center and Cove Bridge this spring with the exact date to be determined.

The 2021-22 state budget allocated an additional $91 million for state and local parks and trails and beach access, plus $29 million for state trails projects. The Division of Parks and Recreation will also receive 30 new permanent field positions, $10 million to create park facilities for veterans and those with disabilities, and $40 million in water and sewer upgrades, according to the news release.

This record visitation year shows us that people need new space to recreate and learn outdoors, said State Parks Director Dwayne Patterson. People clearly value not only having more space to roam and explore, but revitalizing and caring for them.

Among 41 state parks and recreation areas, 28 reported increases in visitation from last year. Jockeys Ridge State Park in Dare County reported the highest visitation with 1.8 million visitors last year, and was among 10 state park units that welcomed more than a million visitors. The others were Carolina Beach, Eno River, Fort Macon, Pilot Mountain and William B. Umstead state parks, and Falls Lake, Fort Fisher, Jordan Lake and Kerr Lake state recreation areas.

Several parks experienced visitation increases in excess of 30% compared to 2020, including Carvers Creek (46%), Chimney Rock (34%), Fort Fisher (46%), Jones Lake (48%), Lake James (35%), and Singletary Lake (50%), according to the news release.

North Carolina State Parks manages more than 250,000 acres of iconic landscape within North Carolinas state parks, state recreation areas and state natural areas. It administers the N.C Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, including its local grants program, as well as a state trails program, North Carolina Natural and Scenic Rivers and more, all with a mission dedicated to conservation, recreation and education. The state parks system welcomes more than 19.8 million visitors annually.

The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (NCDNCR) is the state agency with a vision to be the leader in using the states natural and cultural resources to build the social, cultural, educational and economic future of North Carolina. NCDNCRs mission is to improve the quality of life in our state by creating opportunities to experience excellence in the arts, history, libraries and nature in North Carolina by stimulating learning, inspiring creativity, preserving the states history, conserving the states natural heritage, encouraging recreation and cultural tourism and promoting economic development.

NCDNCR includes 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, three science museums, three aquariums and Jennettes Pier, 41 state parks and recreation areas, the N.C. Zoo, the N.C. Symphony Orchestra, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, State Preservation Office and the Office of State Archaeology, and the Division of Land and Water Stewardship. For more information, visit www.ncdcr.gov.
Alec Baldwin was seen chatting on his cell on a coffee run weeks after he turned over the device to police as they investigate the fatal Rust shooting.

While stepping out to pick up some java on Wednesday in New York City, the 63-year-old actor appeared to be deep in conversation on the phone.

As he braved the cold he held onto a cup carrier, which contained two warmed beverages and an iced drink.

Deep in conversation: Alec Baldwin was seen chatting on his cell on a coffee run, weeks after he turned over the device to police as they investigate the fatal Rust shooting

For the outing, the dad-of-seven sported a padded black jacket, matching nylon trousers and a pair of brown loafers.

He completed the look with a n95 mask over his nose and mouth to stay safe amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

In mid January, the Here's the Thing podcast host finally handed over his cellphone to cops investigating his accidental killing of Halyna Hutchins a month after they requested it.

Coffee run: While stepping out to pick up some java on Wednesday in New York City, the 63-year-old actor appeared to be deep in conversation on the phone

Out and about: As he braved the cold for some caffeine, he held onto a cup carrier, which contained two warmed beverages and an iced drink

At the time, the actor's lawyer Aaron Dyer confirmed the device had been handed over to authorities in Suffolk County, New York, close to where Baldwin lives.

It is being sought by Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza and his investigators probing the death of Halyna Hutchins, 42, on the set of Baldwin's western Rust in Bonanza City, New Mexico, on October 21 last year.

Suffolk County cops have been coordinating with their colleagues in Santa Fe, with the device now set to be passed to them imminently.

Baldwin is pictured with fellow cast members and Hutchins, who was a 42 year-old married mother-of-one

'The real question that needs to be answered is how live rounds got on the set in the first place.'

Baldwin has not been charged with any crime, and denies wrongdoing. Santa Fe County Sheriff's Department first issued a warrant for the phone on December 16.

District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies said investigators probing the tragedy wanted to 'obtain any materials' from Baldwin's phone that could uncover what led to the shooting.

Hutchins was a married mom of one. Director Joel Souza, 48, was also shot during the accident, but recovered from his injuries.

Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, pictured, was accidentally shot and killed by Baldwin on the set of the movie. Director Joel Souza was also struck, but survived

During an interview with ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos in December, Baldwin said the shooting happened when he was working with Hutchins on how to position a gun for a scene they were about to shoot.

Speaking to the television host, 60, Baldwin said: 'The best way, the only way, we can honor the death of Halyna Hutchins is to find out the truth.'

'Thats what Im working toward, insisting on, demanding that the organizations involved in this investigation do everything in their power, everything in their power, to find out what really happened. Thats all that matters.'

Devastating: During an interview with ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos in December, Baldwin said the shooting happened when he was working with Hutchins on how to position a gun for a scene they were about to shoot
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

While the slow crawl protest at the Emerson port of entry on Highway 75 was set to end Wednesday, truckers arent about to go home.

Instead they will transition to the Manitoba Legislature on Friday,

In a message to convoy participants on Wednesday, organizer Rick Wall said theyve joined forces with another group of organizers based in Winnipeg.

GREG VANDERMEULEN / THE CARILLON Volunteers braved the cold on Saturday to hand out snacks to convoy participants.

We are excited about the opportunity of joining forces with this group where we will take the same approach in Winnipeg as they are in Ottawa, he said in the message. The message is clear  we do not move until all mandates are lifted.

That wasnt the plan Tuesday, at which point organizers and participants were planning to stay on site.

Our end goal is to have all mandates lifted before we retreat from protesting, so were going to take it one day at a time, he said Tuesday.

The Manitoba Convoy held a one-day slow crawl protest Jan. 17 before organizing their latest event beginning Saturday, Jan. 29. The event saw truckers and supporters come to a complete stop at the top of every hour for five minutes. It continued through Monday, halting on Tuesday because of blizzard conditions, continuing Wednesday morning.

Wall, whos also the president of Winkler based Richland Transport, said they talked with RCMP when planning the event, talks that included approval of the five minute stop every hour and agreed upon speeds they must travel.

Thats in stark contrast to what officials are now calling an illegal blockade at the Coutts, Alberta border crossing where talks have broken down between RCMP and organizers.

We have to make sure that this is done out of love and respect and this has to be done legally, Wall said. Thats very important to us.

Wall criticized Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who told reporters Monday that he would not meet with the group in Ottawa, condemning Nazi symbolism, racist imagery and desecration of war memorials.

Were not who Justin Trudeau portrays us to be, Wall said. Were practicing our right to a peaceful protest.

Wall said contact hes had with convoy participants in Ottawa tells a different story and he said those causing the trouble may not even be convoy participants. He also suggested that media bias was part of the reason those stories got told.

But he condemns activities such as the people spotted dancing on the tomb of the unknown soldier. I dont care if its my best friend, if theyre doing something like that, I will completely condemn that, he said. Thats not what Im about, thats not what our movement is about.

The atmosphere at the visitors centre near Emerson was very different. Entire families left trucks for bathroom breaks and a free meal cooked on site by Hutterites.

Others handed out snacks and windshield washer fluid at intersections on Highway 75.

The generosity is overwhelming, Wall said.

GREG VANDERMEULEN / THE CARILLON John Neufelds truck hasnt been seeing much action for the last couple of weeks. The Hochfeld long haul trucker has been sidelined by the vaccine mandate.

He remains confident that the effort will not be in vain.

People are committed, were sticking this through until we see change, he said.

Hutterites dish up support

That commitment was present too at a cooking trailer set up just off Highway 75 at the visitors centre. Provided by Horizon Colony, located just north of Horndean, convoy participants were offered burgers, sausages, hotdogs and soup.

Steve Hofer estimated they would go through 300 gallons on Saturday alone.

We wanted to show our respect and support, he explained.

The colony had planned to serve truckers as they went through Headingley last week but were turned away from the Flying J by RCMP who kept the convoy out as well. Instead of heading home, they joined the convoy travelling all the way to Kenora where they served truckers beginning at midnight.

It was such a great feeling seeing all the support out on the highway, he said. It is emotional.

Hofer said they support the elimination of vaccine mandates.

People have been locked up for two years and we just want to get our lives back, he said. We dont want society to be segregated.

That was a popular theme for truckers attending the protest as well.

Winklers Russ Suderman expressed his frustration. Im just tired of everything thats going on, he said.

A dispatcher with a local trucking company, Suderman said taking part in the convoy is incredible.

GREG VANDERMEULEN / THE CARILLON Steve Hofer of Horizon Colony looks on as other colony members serve up free food to hungry truckers.

Henry Klassen drove two and a half hours from Arborg to take part. I feel that were losing our freedom and I feel its time that everybody stands up, he said.

Klassen had COVID before vaccinations were available but said hes remained unvaccinated since.

John Neufeld came from Hochfeld, a village south of Winkler to take part. For him the event is about freedom.

I think our government has gone very overboard with all this COVID stuff, and taking our freedoms away, he said. Ive got three children, the oldest is 14 and the youngest is 10. Im doing it for them really.

A long haul trucker, Neufeld is currently unemployed as a result of the vaccine mandate and his refusal to get vaccinated. He said it should be a choice.

Im pro freedom so whoever wants to get vaccinated, thats their choice.

Jordan Toews of Grunthal was also on hand and he too said people should be able to choose. He said it was encouraging to take part in the convoy. The last two years if youre not for whats going on, you feel alone, he said. Im realizing were not the minority.

Opposed to convoy

Not everyone supports the convoy.

Earlier last week, the Canadian Trucking Alliance issued a statement opposing the convoy and supporting the vaccine mandate. On Saturday, they reiterated their stance, adding a message for truckers participating in the Ottawa event.

To those in the trucking industry that have chosen to participate in this protest regarding cross border mandates, we ask that you engage in a peaceful demonstration today then leave the City of Ottawa to avoid any issues to the welfare and safety of the citizens of Ottawa. Your behaviour today will not only reflect upon you and your family but the 300,000 plus fellow Canadians that, like you, take great pride in our industry, they stated.

Even the company names on trucks in the protest may not be supporting those drivers.

A handful of Steinbach based Penner International trucks were in Saturdays event near Emerson. General Manager Les Kehler declined an interview with The Carillon but provided a statement on Monday saying the company does not support this type of action.

GREG VANDERMEULEN / THE CARILLON Henry Klassen drove to the border from Arborg to take part.

As a company we support the direction of the Manitoba Trucking Association and Canadian Trucking Alliance, which is not supportive of the convoy, he said in the emailed statement. These are individual owner operators who own their own trucks. What they do with their personal time is not our business. Our brand being displayed is disappointing and (we) are working to correct that.

MLA disciplined

Support for the convoy also cost one MLA a role hes held for less than two weeks.

Borderland MLA Josh Guenter joined the convoy on Saturday, sharing his support in a Facebook post.

He was not made available for an interview on Monday, after Premier Heather Stefanson issued a statement removing Guenter from his role as legislative assistant for the minister of health.

As I have stated before, I expect all representatives of the government, whether ministers or their legislative assistants, to support efforts to get all Manitobans vaccinated, she said.

Stefanson expressed support for the right to peacefully protest, but condemned the use of anti-Semitic, racist imagery and desecration of war memorials or statues.

Concerns with the border mandate for truckers do have merit and should be examined further by our federal government to find better solutions, she said.

Stefanson also used the statement to urge all eligible Manitobans to get vaccinated, including a third dose, to protect their communities and the health system.
The leader of the Islamic State group killed in an overnight raid in Syria detonated a suicide bomb that killed himself, his wife and two children as special operations forces circled his compound, the head of U.S. Central Command said Thursday.

The mission's goal was to capture Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi -- also known as both Hajii Abdullah and Amir Muhammad Said Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla -- the leader of the terror group since 2019, but the "massive" blast early in the two-hour raid leveled the third story of the compound where he and his family were hiding out, Gen. Frank McKenzie said. That was followed later by a firefight with al-Qaida members who arrived at the site.

U.S. troops had surrounded the building in Syria's northwestern Idlib province and were using a loudspeaker to call on the ISIS leader and civilians inside to evacuate and surrender, according to McKenzie and accounts by the Pentagon. Hajii Abdullah, his three family members, and a child who was on the second floor were all killed during the raid, they said, but outside monitoring organizations put the death toll at 13.

Read Next: Traumatic Brain Injury Classifications Are Leading to Preventable Deaths, Report Says

No U.S. troops were reported to be injured or killed, but a military helicopter was destroyed by special operators after making an emergency landing after the raid.

"Let me be very clear. Hajii Abdullah did not fight. He killed himself and his immediate family without fighting, even as we attempted to call for his surrender and offered him a path to survive," McKenzie said during an appearance at the Middle East Institute.

Blood covers the floor of a destroyed house after an operation by the U.S. military in the Syrian village of Atmeh in Idlib province, Syria, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. U.S. special forces carried out what the Pentagon said was a successful, large-scale counterterrorism raid in northwestern Syria early Thursday. Local residents and activists said civilians were also among the dead. (AP Photo/Ghaith Alsayed)

Hajii Abdullah led the terror group as it has attempted a comeback, including a major attack in January on a Syrian prison holding its operatives, after going to ground for years following a punishing U.S.-coalition air war in Iraq and Syria. The terror network he controlled included ISIS branches around the world, from Africa to Afghanistan, according to a senior administration official who spoke on background.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Hajii Abdullah "provided near-constant operational guidance to ISIS fighters, to include the prison break and attack at Hasakah and the slaughter of Yazidis in Iraq."

He took over ISIS after the previous leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was killed during a U.S. raid in northwestern Syria in 2019. Al-Baghdadi also detonated a suicide vest after he was chased into a tunnel, killing himself and his children.

"While Baghdadi was iconic and a philosopher figure in ISIS, this guy was actually far more of an operational planner and a director of operations," McKenzie said of Hajii Abdullah.

McKenzie said the objective was to capture the ISIS leader, but he did not say what the U.S. planned to do with him if the mission succeeded.

The long-range helicopter raid had been planned for months before it was finally authorized by President Joe Biden on Tuesday morning during a meeting with Austin and Gen. Mark Milley, the Joint Chiefs chairman, the senior administration official said. Biden was given an in-depth briefing more than a month ago after the U.S. confirmed the ISIS leader was at the site, and updated regularly.

The special operations force, which was not identified by the Pentagon, surrounded the compound and was able to evacuate six civilians from the first floor of the building when the suicide bomb detonated, McKenzie said.

Image of compound housing ISIS emir Al-Qurayshi in northwest Syria after a raid executed by U.S. forces, Feb 2, 2022. (Dept. of Defense photo)

"The explosion, which was more massive than would be expected from a suicide vest, killed everyone on the third floor and, in fact, ejected multiple people from the building, including Hajii Abdullah," he said.

Biden was monitoring the unfolding raid from the White House Situation Room, along with Austin, Milley and McKenzie.

Troops moved into the building and found the ISIS leader's two lieutenants barricaded among children on the second floor. The fighters were killed, and special operators safely evacuated four children, including an infant. Another child was found dead on that floor.

Outside groups gave conflicting early reports of civilian deaths at the scene. The Syrian Civil Defense, known as the White Helmets, said 13 people were killed, and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, based in the U.K., also said the strike killed 13 people, including four children and two women, according to The Associated Press.

"We'll look into whether any unintended harm resulted from U.S. actions," McKenzie said. "I don't believe that to be the case as I speak right now, but as always, we'll take a look at it because it's been less than 24 hours since the operation was executed."

As forces cleared the building, multiple armed fighters believed to be members of a local affiliate of the al-Qaida terrorist group descended on the compound. A U.S. helicopter turned its guns on the attackers, killing at least two.

Hajii Abdullah's body was found on the ground outside the building, and he was identified by fingerprint analysis on site and later DNA analysis, according to McKenzie and the Pentagon.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark A. Milley in the National Military Command Center, February 2, 2022. (Dept of Defense photo)

A helicopter used in the raid experienced what the Pentagon described as a mechanical "drive train issue." It was safely landed, and the crew evacuated before it was rigged with explosives and destroyed so no sensitive U.S. equipment was left in Syria, McKenzie said.

The deaths of the women and children in the Syria raid come just a week after Austin ordered the Pentagon to overhaul its efforts to prevent civilian casualties in overseas operations. A drone strike in Kabul on Aug. 29, 2021, during the withdrawal from Afghanistan killed 10 civilians, including children, and a 2019 airstrike in Baghuz, Syria, killed 70 civilians, including mostly women and children, according to a New York Times investigation.

Biden and the Pentagon said the decision to send in special operators instead of an airstrike was made specifically to limit the risk of civilian harm, and that the troops on the ground did everything possible to keep noncombatants on the ground safe.

"The strong indications are that the lives of innocents taken in this operation were caused by Abdullah and his decision of blowing himself up and everybody else with him on that third floor, as well as the resistance of his lieutenant on the second floor," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said during a briefing to reporters Thursday.

-- Travis Tritten can be reached at travis.tritten@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @Travis_Tritten.

Related: Military Ordered to Overhaul Effort to Prevent Civilian Casualties After Botched Airstrikes
Dasiy Lowe was in the mood to party on Thursday, posting a sizzling selfie before she headed out on the town.

The model, 33, looked incredible as she snapped a mirror selfie while posing in her underwear.

Daisy, the daughter of rocker Gavin Rossdale and fashion designer Pearl Lowe, showed off her famous curves in a skimpy black bra teamed with high-waisted underwear and tights.

Simply stunning: Dasiy Lowe was in the mood to party on Thursday, posting a sizzling selfie in her underwear before she headed out on the town

Posing up a storm, Daisy pouted for the camera with her luxue bathroom on display in the background. 'Covid tested and ready to party,' she captioned the sultry selfie.

The model's night out comes after she celebrated her 33rd birthday on Friday by making a rare appearance with her father, 56, and half-brothers Kingston, 15, Zuma, 13, and Apollo, seven, who Gavin co-parents with ex-wife Gwen Stefani.

The group headed to Universal Studios Hollywood to toast the occasion, with Daisy later posting a series of sweet family images on her Instagram page.

Alongside the gallery, she wrote: 'Turning 33, a full of love, laughter and way too much delicious food photo dump.'

All dressed up: Daisy was attending a cocktail drinks reception hosted by Annie's Ibiza for the opening of RE(LUX) at Sotheby's

Modern family: The beauty's night out comes after she celebrated her 33rd birthday on Friday with her father Gavin Rossdale, 56, and half-brothers Kingston, 15, Zuma, 13, and Apollo, seven

The family's history is somewhat complicated, with Daisy and Gavin only finding out he was her father when a paternity test uncovered the truth in 2004 following a one-night stand with Daisy's mother Pearl years previously.

In her memoir All That Glitters, Pearl, 51, wrote that Gavin, who had been Daisy's godfather, had a cold response to the request for a paternity test.

Pearl said: 'I received a letter from him implying that I was trying to ruin his life and pointedly accusing me of messing up my own.'

She added that after the paternity test 'Daisy persevered with Gavin, determined to forge some kind of relationship, and things did get better. From time to time, he would ask her round to his house.'

Gang's all here: The group headed to Universal Studios Hollywood to toast the occasion, with Daisy later posting a series of sweet family images on her Instagram page

A few years later in 2010 Daisy later told the London Evening Standard: 'I now have a really good relationship with my father.

'It's been blossoming for the past year but it really happened over Christmas. We got to spend time together.

'He's got two beautiful kids who I really adore and his wife is gorgeous.'

At the time Gavin was married to his No Doubt bandmate Gwen Stefani, 52, a relationship that ended in divorce in 2016.
A harlequin toad, Atelopus hoogmoedi, from Oriximina in the Brazilian state of Para. Harlequin toads are smoother than many toads, and are often mistaken for frogs. While all toads are frogs, however, not all frogs are toads. Credit: Jaime Culebras

While frog and salamander declines worldwide have made scientists outspoken about the need to preserve amphibian genetic diversity, two University of California, Berkeley, biologists emphasize another important reason for conserving these animals: Their poisons.

In a recent review of an endangered groupthe colorful, yet poisonous, harlequin toads of Central and South AmericaRebecca Tarvin and Kannon Pearson emphasize how little is known about the toxins these animals produce or sequester, or why they have them at all. Yet, of the 113 known species of harlequin toads, most are in decline, and a quarter may already be extinct.

Given that animal toxins have proved to be a useful source of pharmaceuticalsdrugs already on the market derive from snake and snail venom, while toxins from the pufferfish, centipede and scorpion are in trialsinspiration for new drugs will be lost, along with the animals.

"In Central America, there's nine species of Atelopus, and seven of them have been assessed for toxin diversity and quantity," said Tarvin, UC Berkeley assistant professor of integrative biology. "But the majority of the Atelopus species actually live in South America, where a minority of the studies have been done. There are entire countries, like Bolivia and Guyana, where not a single species has been assessed. We don't know of any reports of whether Indigenous people use them. We don't know if they're toxic or not. One of the takeaways from our paper is that by losing these animals, we're probably losing some chemical diversity, as well. They have some toxins that are found nowhere else in the world."

The Panamanian golden frog (Atelopus zeteki), a harlequin toad, is now extinct in the wild, but small numbers have been rescued for captive breeding and reintroduction into the wild. Credit: Jaime Culebras

Tarvin's main interest is how poisonous animals, which range from monarch butterflies and shellfish to snakes and frogs, evolve to synthesize toxins, eat toxic plants and animals and sequester their poison, or host toxin-producing bacteria, all without succumbing themselves to the toxins. Some species of harlequin toads are unusual in the animal kingdom in having toxins of different origins: They host skin bacteria that produce toxins, such as tetrodotoxin, but the toads also synthesize their own toxins, including chemicals known as bufadienolides (bufo is Latin for toad).

"One of the very first research projects I did was with Atelopus toads in Ecuador, and I just love them," said Tarvin, who also is assistant curator of herpetology at UC Berkeley's Museum of Vertebrate Zoology. "But from a scientific perspective, there's a lot that's unknown, and they are a huge conservation concern. So, I feel like they're kind of a priority. Some of the species are doing fine, but they were really hit hard by chytrid (a fungal disease). A lot of species were completely wiped out."

A 2005 survey found that of 53 Atelopus species with sufficient data, 81% were in decline, and 56% were possibly extinct. One harlequin toad, the Panamanian golden frog (Atelopus zeteki), is extinct in the wild, but its last members were rescued and are being raised in captivity so they can later be reintroduced into the wild. Degradation and loss of habitat, but also chytridiomycosis, or chytrid, have been implicated in these declines.

Tarvin and Pearson, who led the paper as an undergraduate transfer student and now is a graduate student in Tarvin's lab, will publish their review in the March issue of Toxicon: X, the official open-access journal of several international societies that study animal, plant and microbe toxins. The article appeared online Jan. 22.

Once abundant toads now rare

To graduate student Maria Jose (Majo) Navarrete-Mendez, the rapid disappearance of harlequin toads became real only after she discussed them with her grandparents. As recently as the 1980s, at their farm in the province of Imbabura, Ecuador, the family used to see the colorful toadsthey called them jambatoall the time. Today, Navarrete said, you're lucky to stumble across any.

A harlequin toad gets a water spritz before its back is swabbed. The spray removes transient bacteria so that the skin swabs will pick up bacteria that actually live on the skin. Credit: Jose Vieira

While chytrid is likely one cause of their disappearance, she thinks that habitat destruction was and is a major threat today. The longnose harlequin toad (Atelopus longirostris), a photo of which was shared on Instagram this week by actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio, is at the center of protests against the environmental destruction of a planned mine in Ecuador's Intag Valley.

The beauty, yet vulnerability, of these toads convinced her to study them and their toxins after she joined Tarvin's lab a year ago, fresh from the Pontifical Universidad Catolica del Ecuador in Quito, the capital, where she obtained her undergraduate degree.

"My grandparents lived in the countrysidethey were campesinosand they remembered that (the toads) were extremely abundant," said Navarrete. "I started realizing that we are in a race against time, and if it is not me, and if it is not nowwe still have them available, and we have the technology and the resources to study themit might be too late later."

In the new study, with which Navarrete was not involved, the UC Berkeley researchers searched published papers and found studies of the toxins of only 16 harlequin toad species out of 113 known species. About half of these toads contained toxins known as guanidinium alkaloids, such as tetrodotoxin and a toxin, zetekitoxin, which was first identified in the Panamanian golden frog. It's been estimated that the skin of a single Panamanian golden frog contains enough toxins to kill 1,200 mice. Tetrodotoxin is also produced by pufferfish, which are eaten very carefully in Japan as the delicacy fugu, despite the fact that its organs contain deadly amounts of the poison.

These toxins, Pearson said, are likely produced by bacteria living on the skin, though that claim has yet to be proven for most amphibians known to harbor tetrodotoxins.

Four harlequin toad species contained bufadienolides, which are cardiac glycosides that are synthesized by the frog itself. Cardiac glycosides interfere with the sodium/potassium pump in cells and can cause cardiac arrest, among other symptoms.

Using the new survey as background, all three researchers plan future studies of Atelopus, both in South America and in Tarvin's lab at UC Berkeley, to understand whether and how the toads produce these poisons and what they use them for. While the toads' bright colors imply that they're toxic and serve as a warning to predators, not all Atelopus may contain toxins. And, Tarvin said, the toxins may have other uses: To protect the toads from disease, including perhaps the chytrid fungus, to help them communicate with others of their species, or to indicate a toad's reproductive fitness.

Navarrete noted that related research on the tetrodotoxin produced by a California salamander, the rough-skinned newt (Taricha granulosa), may also shed light on how amphibians acquire the bacteria on their skin that make these poisons.

"The most important reason for me to study them is that they are almost gone. If there is something that we can do to help them recover or to learn more from them before they become extinct, we have to do it. It's our responsibility," Navarrete said.

Several conservation groups have sprung up to help preserve the toads, including the Atelopus Survival Initiative. And some supposedly extinct species have been rediscovered. Yet, the fate of the genus remains uncertain.

"Despite the excitement and interest in these animals, we know almost nothing about their chemical defenses, and that appears to be pretty key. Atelopus extinctions threaten the loss of undescribed toxin diversity," Pearson said.

Explore further Invasive cane toads found to use cannibalism to improve their chances of survival in new areas

More information: Kannon C. Pearson et al, A review of chemical defense in harlequin toads (Bufonidae: Atelopus), Toxicon: X (2022). Kannon C. Pearson et al, A review of chemical defense in harlequin toads (Bufonidae: Atelopus),(2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2022.100092
Kelsey Stratford put her ample assets on display as she stepped out in a very busty mini dress on Thursday.

The former TOWIE star, 21, ensured that all eyes were on her in the neon number as she headed out with friends to The Ivy Asia St Paul's, London.

She looked sensational as she posed up a storm in the skin tight ensemble with revealing cut away side panels.

Stunning: Kelsey Stratford, 21, put her ample assets on display as she stepped out in a very busty mini dress on Thursday

Kelsey wore her long blonde locks styled in soft curls as it cascassed over her shoulders.

To complete her outfit she added metallic gold strappy heels that laced up her legs with a matching shoulder bag.

She opted for a glowing palette of makeup with thick false eyelashes and a pink glossy lip.

Incredible: She looked sensational as she posed up a storm in the skin tight ensemble with revealing cut away side panels

Stylish: To complete her outfit she added metallic gold strappy heels that laced up her legs with a matching shoulder bag

Kelsey's latest appearance comes after she was dropped from the TOWIE cast last August.

Show bosses were accused of acting 'irresponsibly' after cruelly axing 10 young cast members 'without warning' despite telling newbies 'you'll be a star.'

The devastated group, including Kelsey, were sacked ahead of the start of the 29th series in hastily arranged meetings in August, which many wrongly believed were storyline consultations.

Axed: Kelsey's latest appearance comes after she was dropped from the TOWIE cast last August

MailOnline revealed the brutal cull left the cast 'distraught' after they were sold a dream by TV bosses and are now facing financial hardship in incredibly tough economic times.

A talent management source told MailOnline: 'It has been a challenging two years for most people financially, this was their career and TOWIE effectively sacked a bunch of youngsters from their jobs and for what reason?

'There was no problem with anyone on the show, they could have given them another six months or the chance to look for other opportunities, but to just fire them all overnight was irresponsible.
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Members of two top-secret World War II military units referred to as the 'Ghost Army' will be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal more than 75 years after their service, under legislation signed into law by President Joe Biden.

Members of the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops and the 3133rd Signal Company Special, which only has nine surviving members, will be honored with the Congressional Gold Medal after Biden, 79, passed the bill on February 1.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor Congress can bestow and it dates back to the American Revolution. It is unclear when they will be gifted their awards.

The nine surviving members are: Bill Anderson, 97, Kent, Ohio; Bernie Bluestein, 98, Chicago, Illinois; John Christman, 97, Leesburg, New Jersey; George Dramis, 97, Raleigh, North Carolina; Manny Frockt, 97, West Palm Beach, Florida; Nick Leo, 99, Brentwood, New York; Mark Mallardi, 98, Edgewater, Florida; Bill Nall, 97, Dunellon, Florida; and Seymour Nussenbaum, 98, Monroe Township, New Jersey.

'Rarely, if ever, has there been a group of such a few men which had so great an influence on the outcome of a major military campaign,' Army analyst Mark Kronman said, according to the Ghost Army Legacy Project.

The Ghost Army refers to two units that used inflatable equipment, sound effects, radio trickery, and other deceptions in Europe to draw enemy forces away from American units, saving an estimated 30,000 lives. Because of their secret classification, members were not recognized for their heroism.

Members of two top-secret World War II military units referred to as the 'Ghost Army' will be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal more than 75 years after their service, under legislation signed into law by President Joe Biden. An unidentified solider stands next to an inflatable tank during the war

Members of the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops and the 3133rd Signal Company Special - known as the Ghost Army - will be honored with the highest medal Congress can present: The Congressional Gold Medal

An old photograph shows a large group of the Ghost Army standing in their military uniforms

Seymour Nussenbaum, Stanley Nance - who is deceased - and Bernie Bluestein sit in their wheelchairs under an American flag

'What an honor,' Bernie Bluestein, 98, of Chicago, Illinois, and one of the nine surviving members told the Ghost Army Legacy Project. 'I never in my lifetime expected anything like this, it completely blasts me. I'm just sorry that there are not more of my fellow soldiers still alive that can be enjoying this as much as I do.'

Bluestein was an art student, like many of the ghost soldiers, when he joined the 1,100-member group - which started out with only 52 soldiers - when he was 18. He was a part of the 23rd Headquarters that worked effortlessly to fool enemy troops away from Americans soldiers after D-Day in 1944 and 1945.

Another ghost soldier that is being honored is the late Mickey McKane, of Keene, New Hampshire, who was also recruited out of art school in 1944.

The Ghost Army was made up of 'artists, engineers, professional soldiers, and draftees' who created inflatable tanks and used sounds to offset the enemy

Nine of the 1,100 soldiers lined up holding what appears to be drinks during the war

'Being artistically minded, he went to the Pratt Institute, which is sort of a famous art school in New York, and at some point, the US Army was beginning a recruitment process through the art schools, and they came and they spoke and [said] they were looking for soldiers that were artistically inclined, and I think that was something that caught my dad's attention,' his son Keith McKane told the Historical Society of Cheshire County in June 2021.

'The entire McKane family is delighted that this story is now a part of American history,' his son Keith McKane said in a statement this week.

US Representative Annie Kuster of New Hampshire, a Democrat who sponsored the bill in the House, said: 'What made the Ghost Army special was not just their extraordinary courage, but their creativity. Their story reminds us that listening to unconventional ideas, like using visual and sound deception, can help us solve existential challenges like defeating tyranny.

'She continued: 'Through their courageous, creative, and innovative tactics, the top-secret Ghost Army outmaneuvered and deceived the Nazis, saving thousands of Allied lives during World War II.

'More than 75 years after defeating fascism in Europe, it's time these soldiers receive the highest honor we can award: the Congressional Gold Medal.'

The legislation in the House was co-led by Republican Representative Chris Stewart of Utah. In the Senate, the legislation was led by Senator Edward Markey, a Democrat from Massachusetts, and Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine.

Rick Beyer of the Ghost Army Legacy Project worked for seven years to get the bill passed. 'I am thrilled these deserving, brave and intrepid warriors of deception have at last been awarded this high honor.

'Armed with their wits and guile these men saved lives and helped win the war,' he said in a statement. 'Their story is an inspiration to all of us!'

The Ghost Army started at Stratford-Upon-Avon in England - where Shakespeare lived - where they set up trials for the equipment in 1944 before ending their series of deceptions in Luxenberg in 1945, according to Keith.

'[They] literally designed clothing, and draperies, and furniture setups in a room and it went from that inflatable tanks, and wooden frameworks with large draperies of camouflage,' Keith told the Historical Society of Cheshire County.

'I remember he would tell how they spent days building wooden structures that looked like a row of trucks or tanks and then cover it with a large canopy with leaves and colored materials to make it camouflaged. And then what they would do - after all that effort - was take one shiny gas can and accidentally leave it outside of that camouflaged structure, so that the enemy aircraft that might be surveilling overhead would spot that.

Only nine members are living, including Bernie Bluestein, 98, (left) and Bill Anderson, 97, (right)

John Christman, 97, and George Dramis, also 97. are also living

Seymour Nussenbaum, 98, (middle) and Bill Nall, 97, was a member of the Ghost Army and is surviving today

Mark Mallardi, 98, who is surviving, also helped deceive the Germans

'The idea was to allow the enemy to believe that there was a large division there and move their armaments there and prepare for something there, instead of what was really happening,' Keith told the Historical Society.

They even staged dummy airfields, according to the Record Courier who spoke to survivor Bill Anderson in 2013, to give the Germans the impression that a full-scale movement was underway, playing sound recordings that could be heard up to 15 miles.

'We'd move in at night in blackout conditions and one company had soundtracks, speakers and wire recorders on the back of a half-track. We'd simulate a division, which is about 10,000 men,' Ghost soldier Bill Anderson told the Record Courier in 2013. 'hat night, we'd all pack up and leave, the Germans would come through, and the real outfit would come back and trap them. We fooled them.'

Another ghost solder, Anderson Wilson, who passed away in 2020, told Right at Home: 'Most of our operations were done within 100300 yards of the front line. We didnt have any kind of artillery  only trucks to move the unit out in a hurry. But we didnt have as many casualties as youd think for that kind of outfit.'

The soldiers were in different groups, such as fake communications, sound, physical setup and design of the structures and they moved throughout surrounding cities and neighborhoods as they set up their traps throughout France, Belgium, Luxenberg, Italy, and Germany. They also moved constantly and work other unit's patches and changed the insignias on their military vehicles as they passed in and out of towns.

John Jarvie, Arthur Shilstone, Seymour Nussenbaum, and Nick Leo recreated a photo taken when they were younger at an unknown time. Only Nussenbaum and Leo are still living

The Ghost Army - which its existence was only known by top officials - staged 20 deceptions and after the war, they were sworn to secrecy. Records, as well as their stories, were sealed away until the 1996 - 51 years after their service, according to the Ghost Army Legacy Project.

'It was classified, we couldn't talk about it. People would ask, "What did you do?" and I'd say, "Well, I'm with special troops,"' Anderson told the Record Courier in 2013.

'They'd say, "Oh, you played in a band?" "Yeah, I played in a band." I didn't have to go through a lot of explanation. It didn't bother me,' Anderson, who did know how to play the drums and played in one of the banks on the boat ride to England, said at the time.

Ghost Army soldier Mickey McKane, deceased, (pictured) as well as the other fallen will also be honored for their service

'On the boat going from the U.S. to England they had a band I played in. I was so damn seasick, I was playing and getting sick at the same time.'

The Ghost Army was created by Colonel Billy Harris and Major Ralph Ingersoll, who curated a group of 'artists, engineers, professional soldiers, and draftees' to participate in their top-secret missions. They were led by Colonel Harry L. Reeder.

The men drafted were considered to have 'one of the highest IQs in the Army with an average of 119, the National World War II Museum said.
Married At First Sight's 'bride from hell' Tamara Djordjevic sparked outrage on Monday when she said retail workers were 'below' her.

But despite her entitled attitude, it turns out Tamara once used to work as a sandwich artist at a Subway branch in Ballarat, Victoria.

'Tamara comes from a very working class family and her dad owned a Subway franchise in Ballarat,' a friend told Yahoo Lifestyle.

Time to eat some humble pie! Inside the very humble beginnings of Married At First Sight star Tamara Djordjevic - after the snobby bride said retail workers were 'below' her

'She worked there when she was younger along with a few friends, mostly doing weekend shifts,' they added.

'She definitely knows that retail and hospitality is pretty gruelling and no easy ride.'

The 29-year-old, who now has a high-paying job in real estate on the Gold Coast, shocked viewers on Monday by saying retail workers were 'below' her.

Hospitality background: Despite her entitled attitude, it turns out Tamara once used to work as a sandwich artist at a Subway branch in Ballarat, Victoria, reports Yahoo Lifestyle

After the episode aired, Aussie retail workers criticised the operations manager on social media.

'I work in retail and if people like us didn't exist she wouldn't f**king eat,' one angry viewer wrote on Facebook.

'Disgusting behaviour from a disgusting person,' they added.

Personal experience: 'She definitely knows that retail and hospitality is pretty gruelling and no easy ride,' said a friend

Others agreed, with one woman saying: 'If someone came into my store and treated my staff like they were anything less than human I would tell her to leave.'

Tamara had shocked her 'husband' Brent Vitiello during Monday's season premiere of MAFS by saying she could never date someone who worked in retail.

She said the profession was 'below' her and she expected her partner to be ambitious and have a high-paying job.

Controversial: Tamara had shocked her 'husband' Brent Vitiello during Monday's season premiere of MAFS by saying she could never date someone who worked in retail

Shocking: Tamara repeatedly clashed with Brent (right), a 33-year-old hospitality specialist from Sydney, on their wedding day

Tamara repeatedly clashed with Brent, a 33-year-old hospitality specialist from Sydney, on their wedding day.

The fussy bride was immediately disappointed by her affable groom when they met at the altar.

'He does seem like an average kind of guy. Average just isn't for me. I'm not average. I don't do average,' the surgically enhanced socialite told producers.

The most awkward moment came when the judgmental blonde turned on Brent after finding out he worked at a nightclub - which turned out to be only half true.

While Brent's line of work occasionally requires him to go to nightclubs, he is actually an events manager who previously ran a successful business in Dubai.

When he clarified this point, Tamara was visibly relieved to learn he wasn't just a party boy, but the worst was yet to come for the newlyweds.

Later, when the couple sat down for dinner with two friends, a frustrated Tamara called out Brent for his lack of etiquette when he used the wrong fork.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

When they departed for Ottawa last week, the convoy of anti-Trudeau truckers thought they were headed to the nations capital to bring the government down. Instead, they managed to topple Conservative Party of Canada Leader Erin OToole  and helped launch the third leadership race since Stephen Harper stepped down in 2015.

And with the gulf only widening between the partys remaining moderates and the ideological extremists that are clearly in control, it could be on the verge of a civil war that splits the party Harper knit together nearly 20 years ago.

To read more of this story first reported by Canadas National Observer, click here.

Doug Fords appeal to voters in suburban Toronto and other parts of Ontario could be just the thing to break the Liberal governments stronghold there, writes columnist Max Fawcett. Photo by Bruce Reeve / Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

This content is made available to Winnipeg Free Press readers as part of an agreement with Canadas National Observer that sees our two trusted news brands collaborate to better cover Canada. Questions about Observer content can be directed to dana@nationalobserver.com.
Tilly Ramsay looked glamorous in a set of glitzy Instagram snaps on Thursday as she prepared to take to the stage in Liverpool on the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour.

The social media influencer, 20, who is the daughter of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, 55, wore a bedazzled and tasseled silver costume in one image while she donned an elegant gold dress in another.

She completed her look by opting for lashings of make-up to highlight her pretty features, praising her beautician for her glow up.

Glitterati: Tilly Ramsay, 20, looked glamorous in a set of glitzy Instagram snaps on Thursday as she prepared to take to the stage in Liverpool on the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour

Tilly captioned her post: 'A few little pics. Loving all the makeup looks from the amazing @lydiabarnesmakeup and amazing hair @fletcherhair!! Very excited to perform in Liverpool tonight @strictlycomedancinglive.'

Earlier in the day, the television personality was spotted out with former EastEnders actress Maisie Smith, 20, as the pair wore matching coats.

They could be seen chatting as they left their hotel before making their way to the M&S Bank Arena in the city.

In style: The social media influencer wore a bedazzled and tasseled silver costume in one image while she wore an elegant gold dress in another

Beauty: She completed her look by opting for lashings of make-up to highlight her pretty features, praising her beautician for her glow up

Tilly opted to wear a black face covering in a bid to protect herself and others from coronavirus while walking alongside Maisie.

Soap star Maisie laughed as Tilly spoke to her, with the screen star keeping warm against the cool February weather by wearing a pair of earmuffs.

It comes after the pair's Strictly co-star Janette Manrara revealed the entire tour group had marked the Lunar New Year with a trip to a Chinese restaurant.

Fashion twins: Earlier in the day, the television personality was spotted out with former EastEnders actress Maisie Smith, 20, as the pair wore matching coats

Famous friends: Soap star Maisie laughed as Tilly spoke to her, with the screen star keeping warm against the cool February weather by wearing a pair of earmuffs

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Janette, 38, shared a group photo of herself, Tilly, Nikita and their fellow Strictly Come Dancing live tour co-stars - including Neil Jones, Rose Ayling-Ellis, Rhys Stephenson, Maisie Smith, Nancy Xu, Katya Jones and Max George - enjoying lunch.

In her caption, Janette explained that Hunan-born Nancy was missing home and sweetly gushed about her 'Strictly family'.

She wrote: 'Happy Chinese New Year. @nancy_xuxi is missing her family during such a big celebration, and so we all came to celebrate w/ her. These are moments when you realise that there really is such a thing as a #StrictlyFamily. Such a lovely afternoon!'
VERO BEACH  There's been a lot of changes in local law enforcement since the hiring of the first Black Indian River County sheriff's deputy in 1962.

There have been years-long efforts to improve police image through community policing initiatives and ongoing efforts to make diversity within each agency more reflective of Indian River County, policing officials noted Wednesday evening during a Black History Month event honoring Black law enforcement officers.

Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers, along with chiefs and officials from each police department, county commissioners and school district officials spoke to a crowd of students and the public of about 100 in the Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center.

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Organized by an Oslo Middle School faculty member, The Unsung Heroes of Indian River County highlighted contributions of past and present Black officers since 1962 when Deputy Dallas Yates was hired in the Indian River County Sheriffs Office, restricted to work in minority areas.

Event organizer Felecia Brown told the crowd Yates was a trailblazer in our community and a peacemaker skilled in de-escalation, largely because he was restricted from arresting white people or working outside Gifford.

A photo of former Indian River County Sheriff's Deputy Dallas Yates, the first Black law enforcement official in Indian River County, is seen projected on the screen as Felecia Brown, school resource specialist at Oslo Middle School, speaks during the Unsung Heroes of Indian River County event, on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022, at the Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center. The event, presented by the School District of Indian River County and Oslo Middle School, recognizes past and present Black law enforcement officers for Black History Month.

Brown, a resource specialist and exceptional student education support facilitator, said the idea for the event came from her students and that she wants it to be an annual event.

They also wanted to really talk about more policing and they want to know the Black heroes and about how Gifford has changed and that really sparked me to go ahead and let the community be the ones to come out and educate our students, said Brown.

Story continues

Brown said the event is special to her because she has family members who are law enforcement officers, "so I really respect law enforcement.

She said much of her research on Yates was done at the Gifford Community Cultural and Resource Center with the help of its CEO Johnnie Mae Perry.

Yates went on to start a produce company, open a grocery story and develop affordable housing in Gifford where much of his family still lives, Brown said.

Remembering the past

Many of the deputies honored and remembered during a candlelight vigil were from Gifford. Some were relatives of Brown, including Fabian Pierce, who retired from the Sheriffs Office as a captain and died last year; and 21-year deputy Curtis Hart who died in 2019.

Harts brother, Donald Hart, with Sebastian Police Department, spoke at the event and said he has been in law enforcement since 1986.

"I have witnessed change in demeanor during certain police interactions which changed from distrust and fear to faith and hopefulness in the African-American community when an African-American police officer arrives on the scene," said Hart.

Seats were reserved for family of deceased deputies, including Deputy Garry Chambliss who was shot and killed while off duty outside his home in 2017. The murder is unsolved.

Audience members are seen at the Unsung Heroes of Indian River County event, on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022, at the Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center. The event, presented by the School District of Indian River County and Oslo Middle School, for Black History Month, recognizes the past and present Black law enforcement officers.

School Board member Peggy Jones spoke about school resource deputies.

"The one thing I noticed is the relationship our African-American officers, and all officers, develop with our students," said Jones. "They are mentors, they are parents, and they are counselors all at once  but do know they mean business."

Flowers said he attended Yates funeral in 2015 and met with his family members.

Now, 60 years since Yates first worked with the agency, there are 73 Black people among its 503 employees.

He encouraged students in attendance to consider a career as a deputy.

Vero Beach Police Chief David Currey spoke highly of the departments only Black officer, Master Police Officer Darrell Rivers, who is also its spokesperson.

Having worked with Rivers for 32 years, Currey, at times emotional, said making Rivers the face of the agency, was one of the best moves Ive ever made.

Rivers called out from the audience, I love you, Chief.

Fellsmere Chief Keith Touchberry said he attended the police academy 33 years ago with both Hart and Rivers.

"Historically, this profession attracted white males," Touchberry said, adding that as the nation began to acknowledge diverse communities, its police forces also diversified.

A moment of reflection honors local law enforcement officers who have died (from left) Jonnie Mae Idlette, of the Vero Beach Police Department, Gary Chambliss, Curtis Hart, and Fabian Pierce, all of the Indian River County Sheriff's Office, during the Unsung Heroes of Indian River County event, on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022, at the Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center.

In law enforcement now, Touchberry said only the color of uniforms are taken into account and that is to distinguish jurisdiction.

Indian River Shores Chief Rich Rosell closed out the event with talks on diversity efforts in his department and challenges in those efforts.

Of the agency's police, fire and ambulance service he said there are 23 full-time employees.

"It is a task for sure every single week to try to figure out a way to make the demographic more reflective of the Indian River County demographic and it's not easy," said Rosell. "I think we're doing pretty good, but there is always room for improvement."

Brown, who already is planning next year's event, welcomed input, saying its a process that needs to be a jewel in the community.

Corey Arwood is a breaking news reporter for TCPalm. Follow Corey on Twitter @coreyarwood, or reach him by phone at 772-978-2246.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Indian River County inaugural event honors Black police officers
Artist Kristen Downing was sitting at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, before the switch to the new terminal, when she noticed paint chipping on one of the doors. Where most would have seen an imperfection, she saw inspiration.

So the Kenner native snapped a photo, with plans to recreate the texture once she got back to her studio as a background for her next painting. While creating, Downing noticed shed accidentally spilled paint on the canvas, but she wasnt mad about it. She was in the midst of developing her signature style.

Its the first thing you see when you look at her large-scale paintings depicting Black Americans  the backgrounds containing bold splashes of color applied with spatulas contrasting against black and white line work, stemming from her work as a tattoo artist in New Orleans for more than a decade. And thats completely intentional.

I paint large pictures with bold colors, so that's grabbing your attention with that abstract background, Downing says. Once I got your attention, you're looking within all of my subjects on that canvas  You're going to be drawn in and you're gonna pay attention to what's on that canvas. From there, your job is to go home and do more research about the story that I'm telling on that canvas.

After a police officer shot and killed 18-year-old Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014, Downing began to center her work around protesting in America and telling Black stories. Shes gone on to paint both national and local figures like Ruby Bridges and Oretha Castle Haley to educate the community on Black history because the schools didn't tell it enough, she says.

Downing says that many people, even native Louisianans, hear these Black stories for the first time through her art. This was true when she painted a mural of Martha White, a Black woman from Baton Rouge who in 1953 refused to get up from a seat in the whites only section of the bus, spurring Black residents to start a bus boycott.

The moment would serve as the model for Rosa Parks to take a similar action two-and-a-half years later, which Martin Luther King Jr. organized. White died last year at the age of 99.

I painted a mural of her. People didn't even know who she was, Downing says. They didn't even know her story.

Downing says she learns something every time she creates a piece, too, like when she painted a mural of the Canal Street lunch counter sit-ins organized by the New Orleans chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), including Oretha Castle Haley.

I know Oretha Castle Haley from the street sign, she says. I'd never seen a picture of this lady, and I'm about to be 40 years old.

Downing is currently one of several artists featured in the Healing History exhibit at The Cary Saurage Community Arts Center in Baton Rouge, which runs through Feb. 24. Her four pieces have messages like I am a woman healing and I am a man healing.

Its a subject shes been grappling with a lot lately, as her mother passed away from cancer. Covid has hit her family hard, too, she said. She lost her mother-in-law to the virus, her husband was hospitalized with it and she contracted it, too. With the exhibit, she wants to show people that its OK to heal and to ask for help.

The way I grew up I didn't too much hear that in my family, Downing says. All I heard was, 'Pray about it. Pray about it.' I don't recall people seeing therapists, and that's in the Black culture. We're not accustomed to that. We don't have the resources for that  (but) everyone should have access to that. It should be free because although we can pray, we still need someone to sit down and talk to, and everybody don't have that.

Though the exhibit just opened on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Downing says shes already hearing the same sentiment from collectors, friends and people online alike: Everybody is saying that it's needed, she says.

This story appears in Gambit's February issue of Details. The digital edition can be found here.
The American Civil Liberties Union in Virginia gets hundreds of complaints alleging abuses inside the states prison system, where 24,000 people are incarcerated by an agency with an annual budget approaching $1.5 billion.

Democrats in the General Assembly hoped to launch an independent ombudsman and civilian oversight of the DOC to reduce problems, provide accountability for taxpayers and make prisons safer for staff and people incarcerated. But the DOC pushed back, and Republicans on a House subcommittee killed legislation Thursday that would have added new oversight.

Jerry Fitz, the DOCs legislative liaison, made the same argument he made last year when the bill died: Theres already enough oversight of DOC.

The American Correctional Association does an audit every three years, the U.S. Department of Justice requires audits related to investigation of sexual assault allegations, and the department is accountable to the governors secretary of public safety and homeland security, Fitz said.

Independent, civilian oversight would be another layer of bureaucracy, he told the House of Delegates public safety subcommittee.

Del. Jason Ballard, R-Giles, said he agreed and moved to kill legislation by Del. Patrick Hope, D-Arlington. The subcommittee voted 5-3 to shut down the oversight idea.

Virginia missed a golden opportunity to bring a measure of transparency to its opaque and unaccountable prisons, Vishal Agraharkar, senior staff attorney with the ACLU in Virginia, said in a statement afterward. If the Department of Corrections truly believed they were as successful as they claim, they would welcome rather than fear independent oversight and inspections.

Among lawsuits and incidents involving the Virginia Department of Corrections:

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported last month that a DOC officer quickly panned his camera away from an incident he was recording when a prison supervisor grabbed a restrained inmate by the neck. A DOC investigator asked a leading question of the supervisor and the case was closed. After the team of a prison investigator who scrutinized the incident were given added duties, the investigators fell behind on Prison Rape Elimination Act investigations, the investigator said.

Last year, a federal judge in Virginia denied a DOC request to dismiss an ACLU lawsuit asking for an end to solitary confinement at Red Onion and Wallens Ridge prisons in Wise County. The case is now before the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

In January 2021, a federal court ordered the Virginia Department of Corrections to create a language access policy after a three-year legal battle over allegations that the agency denied services to a non-English speaker that were designed to help him leave solitary confinement. The man was allegedly held in solitary confinement for more than 12 years and received compensation of $115,000 from the Department of Corrections.

A Virginian-Pilot investigation found that the DOC strip searched prison visitors ages 1 to 83, including an 8-year-old girl, and threatened family members of people in prisons that they would be permanently banned from visiting if they didnt consent to a search. The General Assembly passed bipartisan laws to stop the abuses.

A woman sued the Department of Corrections in 2020 after she was fired from her job as a dental hygienist at Augusta Correctional Center when prison staff allegedly believe her tampon was contraband.

In 2019 a federal judge found that the DOC failed to live up to eight of 22 standards of health care established in a 2016 settlement agreement for women incarcerated at the Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women.

The department has also faced lawsuits alleging its dogs mauled prisoners.

Brian Mitchell of Tazewell County, who worked for DOC for over 22 years, including as an investigator, said earlier this week that the Virginia Department of Corrections embraces a code of silence when it comes to misconduct. For officers who voice concerns, he said, its just a matter of time before youre retaliated against.

The culture inside the facilities is very toxic, especially for staff, he said. There is little accountability for upper-level supervisors and administrators.
RTHK: Moscow to shut down Deutsche Welle bureau in Russia

Russia said on Thursday it is closing the Moscow bureau of German broadcaster Deutsche Welle and revoking staff accreditations in Russia, in response to Berlin's ban on the German-language channel of Russian state TV network RT.

Deutsche Welle called the decision "absurd" and a "complete overreaction".

The German government said the move was unacceptable and had "no basis of comparison whatsoever" with Berlin's ruling on RT.

"I urgently appeal to the Russian side not to abuse RT's licensing problems for a political reaction," Germany's Culture Minister Claudia Roth said.

The announcement comes with tensions mounting between Russia and the West, particularly over fears of a Russian invasion of Europe's ally, Ukraine.

The closure also highlights the Kremlin's increasingly hostile position towards foreign media in the wake of several high-profile expulsions of prominent foreign journalists.

The Russian foreign ministry said in a statement on Thursday it will also "terminate the satellite and other broadcasting (output) of Deutsche Welle" on Russian territory.

It added that it was initiating the process of designating the German media a "foreign agent" and said that further reciprocal measures will be announced in the future.

Deutsche Welle  a German state-owned broadcaster  has services in 30 languages, including Russian.

The moves comes after Germany's broadcasting regulator on Wednesday announced it was banning the transmission of the channel "RT DE" over the lack of a broadcasting licence. (AFP)

This story has been published on: 2022-02-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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Heres how to evaluate the redistricting plan offered by New York Democrats: The same way youd evaluate the lines drawn by Republicans in other states and, for that matter, by New York Republicans when they dominated the State Senate: Its all about improving your odds of winning.

Clearly, thats not how it should be. It may benefit parties, but at the long-term expense of the country. New York  and all states  should draw legislative district boundaries without regard to political advantage, though thats a little like expecting a lion to go vegetarian. The once-every-decade task, mandated to preserve the concept of one person, one vote, should aim above all to keep communities together irrespective of party membership. That would make elections more competitive and dull the allure of the kind of extremism that now pollutes our politics.

Welcome to nirvana.

The sad fact is that the U.S. Supreme Court washed its hands of the gerrymandering problem in 2019, when it ruled that redistricting controversies are the province of legislatures, not the federal courts. It was an unfortunate decision, in that it tacitly authorized states to draw lines in ways meant to make some votes less influential than others.

We are in Mad Max territory now; there are no rules, Justin Levitt, an election law professor at Loyola Law School, told National Public Radio after that ruling. I think youll see more legislators in more states [where there is unilateral control] taking up the mantle of extreme partisan aggression against people who disagree with them.

Its a version of what Democrats are doing today in New York, drawing districts that are bound to give them an electoral advantage. Its also what Republicans are doing in states they dominate, including Texas and Alabama. And disregard the crocodile tears of New York Republican Chairman Nick Langworthy: Republicans here did that and worse as they used every trick they could think of to retain control of the State Senate, going so far as increasing the number of senators in their efforts to cling to power. Eventually, that didnt help, as Democrats took over the chamber in 2018 and claimed legislative supermajorities two years later. With that clout, Democrats are driving redistricting.

But theres an asterisk, possibly a significant one: In 2014, New York voters approved a constitutional amendment that was supposed to drain at least some of the politics out of redistricting. The amendment included language to prohibit drawing district lines meant to favor candidates or parties though, predictably, there is an asterisk to the asterisk: Existing district lines should be respected. That opens avenues for mischief.

Even with that change, redistricting was never going to be a truly independent undertaking. Still, it was meant to reduce  if not eliminate  the ability of skeptics to christen misshapen districts with names like Abraham Lincoln Riding a Vacuum Cleaner, The Splattered Bug of the Bronx, and The Long Island Lobster Claw. And thats not to mention Western New Yorks infamous Earmuff District, drawn after the 2000 census to connect parts of Erie and Niagara counties with the Rochester area by means of a strip along Lake Ontario.

That district went away after the 2010 census, but there was a real prospect that Democrats would try to bring it back this year. To their credit, they didnt, though the congressional lines produced last week would almost certainly increase the number of Democrats New York sends to Congress and possibly enough to keep the chamber in Democratic control. Some, especially downstate, are oddly configured.

In this proposal, as always, there are some gigantic districts. Thats impossible to avoid in more sparsely populated areas, especially as overall population loss reduces the number of congressional districts. New York is losing one district this go-round. Thus, under the Democrats plan, the 27th District occupied by Rep. Chis Jacobs, R-Orchard Park, would stretch for 256 miles, from the Niagara River in Lewiston all the way to Watertown, but not including Rochester. Jacobs will have to move to continue representing the district. He says he will.

Meanwhile, the 23rd District, represented by the soon-to-retire Tom Reed, R-Corning, would run east from Chautauqua Countys Lake Erie shoreline, across the Southern Tier into Chenango County.

Significantly, both districts would include parts of Erie County, whose dense population would largely remain in the 26th District, represented by Democrat Brian Higgins of Buffalo. With that  and this has potential benefits  Erie County would have three members representing it in Congress.

Republicans say they will go to court over this plan, so outraged are they that Democrats did what they wish they could have done. The legal question may hinge on whether the lines so benefit Democrats that they violate the 2014 constitutional amendment. As Politico has reported, it may not work.

This much is true: The plan includes few districts so grossly misshapen that they cause the eyes to bulge. The notable exception is the proposed 3rd Congressional District, which would link Suffolk and Nassau counties on Long Island with parts of the Bronx and Westchester County on the mainland. Democrats insist it will pass muster and maybe theyre right. Smaller needles have been threaded.

Still, New Yorkers and all Americans would benefit from a truly independent redistricting model that produces competitive elections within adjacent communities. But why would any party in any state willingly lay down its redistricting arms unless they all do? New York Democrats certainly didnt. For that, there is room for criticism but, in a realpolitik way, also comprehension.

So, heres an idea: Langworthy should join with a similarly overmatched Democratic leader from a Republican dominated state  Texas, say  and begin a national campaign for a federal constitutional amendment requiring actual independent redistricting. That would send a useful message to all Americans, regardless of party, that they  and the country  are being misused.

  

Whats your opinion? Send it to us at lettertoeditor@buffnews.com. Letters should be a maximum of 300 words and must convey an opinion. The column does not print poetry, announcements of community events or thank you letters. A writer or household may appear only once every 30 days. All letters are subject to fact-checking and editing.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, said in an interview this week that she was concerned about a jails-and-police-centered policy, with just gestures to investments in what we actually know and have evidence reduces crime.

But Mr. Adams  who on Thursday also emphasized his interest in boosting community-based efforts to stop violence  is plainly emerging as an important validator of the president.

We both know our highest calling, our most important mission, is protecting the people of this city, and of this country, said Mr. Adams, who has declared himself the Biden of Brooklyn  a nod to their overlapping bases of working-class voters of color. There is no recovery without public safety. There is no recovery without justice. They go hand in hand. That is why were working in lock step to end the gun violence that has shaken our city, our nation, to protect our people and the officers who are sworn to protect us.

He urged a 9/11-type response to address the domestic terror that is pervasive in this city and country.

Mr. Biden, for his part, described a shared vision with Mr. Adams that the best approach to public safety was not to divest from the police but rather to bolster departments, as well as initiatives that tap community members to intervene before violence occurs.

He noted that he had called on Congress to increase federal grants to police departments by $300 million and encouraged localities to use stimulus funds to hire more officers and pay them overtime. At another point, Mr. Biden turned and singled out Officer Sumit Sulan, the rookie officer who shot and killed the gunman who fatally shot two policemen in Harlem last month. Officer Sulan rose and faced a standing ovation. He met with Mr. Biden ahead of the event, according to the White House.
PHOENIX  State lawmakers took the first steps Thursday to curbing abortion rights in Arizona if the U.S. Supreme Court gives them the go-ahead.

Senate bill 1164, approved on a 5-3 party-line vote by the Republican-controlled Senate Judiciary Committee, would make it a felony for a doctor to abort a fetus  called an unborn human being in the measure  beyond the 15th week of pregnancy except in cases of medical emergency.

Violations could result in doctors facing a year in state prison and loss of their medical license. There would be no penalty for women who got the procedure.

The bills sponsor, Sen. Nancy Barto, R-Phoenix, as well as many who testified, made it clear they oppose abortion at any stage. But that hasnt been an option since the historic 1973 Roe v. Wade decision and subsequent rulings that have said women have a right to choose prior to a fetus being viable.

What has changed is that the high court is now weighing a 15-week ban approved by Mississippi lawmakers.

The justices could use that case to overturn Roe, in which case Arizonas own abortion ban, which dates to territorial days, could once again be enforced.

SB 1164, however, is a contingency plan in case the court simply affirms the Mississippi law but leaves Roe in place. It would put a statute on the books that would immediately take effect.

Thursdays debate featured what have been pretty much the same arguments made in every abortion measure heard since Roe.

Obstetricians know that later-term abortions correlate with multiple risks to a womans health, testified Dr. Allan Sawyer, past president of the American Association of Pro-life Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He said SB 1164 would reduce the risk of maternal trauma and hemorrhage.

Relationship failure, hemorrhaging, cervical or uterine damage, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, alcohol and drug use are all potential physical, psychological and emotional side effects of having an abortion, said Rachel Van Hosen, who works for Crisis Pregnancy Center in Phoenix.

Van Hosen, who had a legal abortion as a minor  she said she got permission from a court in lieu of parental consent  experienced many of them herself, she said, none of which were told to me.

But Monica Schutz told lawmakers she and her husband have a genetic defect that produces fetuses that have no chance of survival due to abnormalities that cannot be detected early in the pregnancy. Banning abortions at 15 weeks, she said, would endanger her life and sharply reduce the chance of getting pregnant again and trying for a healthy child.

And Harlie Jackson spoke of her own decision at age 18 to have an abortion because I knew I was not mentally, physically or economically able to raise a child.

Much of the debate, however, focused on what would happen if abortion after 15 weeks no longer is a legal option in Arizona.

As long as there are unwanted pregnancies, there will be abortions, said Marilyn Rodriguez, who lobbies for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona.

If the Supreme Court overturns Roe, all that will do is return decisions about abortion laws to individual states. Several already are positioned to keep the procedure legal.

The Center for Reproductive Rights says the California Supreme Court recognized the legal right to abortion in 1969, four years before Roe.

Nevada voters approved a measure in 1990 protecting the legal right to abortion. And other states ranging from Washington to New York have statutes allowing women to terminate pregnancies.

Now, folks with privilege like you and me ... will always have the means to travel abroad to places where abortion is safe and legal, when and if we need it, Rodriguez told legislators.

The bill in front of you will decide whether those without the means will be forced to carry a pregnancy to term against their will or to seek unsafe, back-alley methods of terminating pregnancy, she continued, calling the measure cruel.

But Cathi Herrod, president of the anti-abortion Center for Arizona Policy, said thats looking at it from the wrong perspective.

What weve seen in the 49 years that abortion has been legal in this country (is) that abortion has been moved from the back alley to inside the abortion clinic, she said. She said claims that women will die from illegal abortions have been widely debunked.

Barto had her own take on the issue, saying there is no safe option for abortion.

Its not safe for the baby, she said. We know that.

Sen. Wendy Rogers, R-Flagstaff, also said she sees it from that perspective.

Who are we, as a nation, if we dont give voice to the unborn, to the unprotected, to the child that has no voice, who wishes to be born and has no power in that equation to have that choice to be born, Rogers said.

Sen. Martin Quezada, D-Glendale, said restricting abortion access doesnt advance the health of Arizona women.

He said thats not just his view but also that of the federal judge in Mississippi who ruled that states law illegal and called lawmakers there hypocritical, pretending to care about womens health and the well-being of the unborn and people of color while tolerating poverty, maternal death rates and curtailing health-care programs like Medicaid. Quezada said lawmakers here should be focused on the latter issues.

Government should not be preventing a woman from making a decision about her own body for herself, he said.

The legislation, which now needs full Senate approval before going to the House, would affect fewer than 5% of all abortions.

In 2020, the most recent year for which figures are available, the Arizona Department of Health Services says there were 13,186 abortions performed on state residents. Of that total, 636 were beyond 15 weeks of pregnancy.

Even some foes of the measure concede it probably has enough votes to pass, with the Republican-controlled Legislature having a history of approving bills designed to restrict the process as much as lawmakers think they legally can.

Those include a 2012 bid to outlaw abortion at 20 weeks, which was declared unconstitutional by a federal appeals court; and, just last year, an outright ban on abortions based on fetal genetic defects, which also has been enjoined.

Republican Gov. Doug Ducey has signed every abortion restriction that has reached his desk.

There is a separate measure, House bill 2483, introduced by Rep. Teresa Martinez, R-Casa Grande, that would create a Texas-style heartbeat abortion ban. It would allow any individual to sue doctors or those who aid a woman to get an abortion and be able to collect $10,000 penalties.

So far, though, House Speaker Rusty Bowers, R-Mesa, has not assigned that measure to any committee for a hearing. And Herrod told Capitol Media Services that while she supports all efforts to restrict abortion, it is the Barto bill she is backing.
OMAHA -- In the Republican primary race to succeed Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts, candidate Charles W. Herbster announced that he has received an endorsement from South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem.

The development positions two prominent Republican governors, Ricketts and Noem, on opposite sides of the primary race. Ricketts in January endorsed Jim Pillen, a livestock producer and University of Nebraska regent.

Pillen and Herbster are viewed as frontrunners in the race.

Herbster, a Falls City businessman who touts his support of and from former President Donald Trump, announced the Noem endorsement in a news release from his campaign Wednesday morning.

"I am proud to endorse Charles W. Herbster to be the next governor of Nebraska. Charles is a strong conservative, and with decades of experience as a farmer, rancher, and successful businessman," Noem said in the Herbster campaign release.

Herbster said it was an honor to receive the endorsement.

I look forward to working alongside her as a powerful ally in the fight against federal government overreach," he said in the release. "As governors of neighboring states, Kristi Noem and I will collaborate to bring additional jobs and resources to our states, and advance opportunity and prosperity for all."

Noem has become an increasingly recognized figure in national Republican politics. Though she has dismissed such speculation, some view her as a potential Republican presidential contender in 2024  speculation largely tied to her efforts aimed at building a national profile, particularly by condemning restrictions meant to curb the spread of COVID-19. She has registered a political action committee and engaged in a nationwide speaking circuit.

Ricketts also has been the source of speculation in Nebraska, where political observers noted the governor seemed to be increasingly vocal in his criticisms of federal policies during Joe Bidens presidency. In October he joined eight other prominent Republican governors in traveling to the southern border.

Like Noem, Ricketts over the summer dismissed speculation that he might be positioning himself for higher office, saying that there was simply an abundance of policies that merited his criticism.

Last month Ricketts, a two-term governor barred from seeking reelection due to term limits, joined former Nebraska Gov. Kay Orr to formally endorse Pillen in the Republican primary  a race that also features State Sen. Brett Lindstrom and former Sen. Theresa Thibodeau.

Ricketts has criticized Herbster for headquartering his business outside Nebraska and for his support of a proposed consumption tax plan that would replace Nebraskas income, corporate, sales and property tax system. Ricketts has said he does not believe Herbster is qualified to be our next governor."

Those remarks came after Trump formally endorsed Herbster in October, stating in a news release that Herbster "will do a fantastic job. The former president called Herbster an extraordinarily successful businessman, adding that he will fight for our farmers and ranchers, support our military and vets, and protect and defend your under siege Second Amendment rights."

The news outlet Politico reported in November that Ricketts had asked Trump to stay out of the Republican primary fight  a request that Trump ultimately disregarded.

Like Herbster, Noem has aligned herself with the former president. Last year both she and Herbster cut ties with political adviser Corey Lewandowski, a longtime confidant to Trump, after Lewandowski became embroiled in scandal.

The primary is May 10.

This report includes material from the Associated Press.
She has been lucky enough to travel around Europe and Africa in recent weeks as her husband Chris Hemsworth films Extraction 2 in Prague.

But it seems the holiday is over for Spanish actress Elsa Pataky, 45, who was spotted back in her hometown of Byron Bay on Wednesday.

The Fast and Furious star appeared relaxed and happy, and back to going barefoot as she walked around the popular tourist town.

Back on home soil! Chris Hemsworth's wife Elsa Pataky went barefoot as she stepped out in Byron Bay on Wednesday

Elsa kept things causal in a flowing printed mini skirt and a brown singlet tank top.

She pulled her dark locks back and off her face and went makeup free.

Elsa seemed happy to be home, beaming and laughing as she chatted to some locals.

It's believed she's back in town as her children returned to school this week.

She's a natural beauty: She pulled her dark locks back and off her face and went makeup free

Casual: Elsa kept things causal in a flowing printed miniskirt and a brown singlet tank top

Jet setter: She has been lucky enough to travel around Europe and Africa in recent weeks as her husband Chris Hemsworth films Extraction 2 in Prague

Date night: Chris and Elsa were last spotted in London together, walking the streets on a date night

Chris and Elsa were last spotted in London together, walking the streets during a date night.

Earlier this year, Elsa enjoyed a trip to Africa with some friends, which included a safari adventure, swimming in waterfalls and a stay at a luxurious retreat.

'I dreamed of Africa!!' Elsa captioned one of her photos from Kenya.

Dream destination! Earlier this year, she enjoyed a trip to Africa with some friends, which included a safari adventure, swam in waterfalls and a stay at a luxurious retreat (pictured)

Lucky for some! Other activities included horse riding, swimming in waterfalls, dining under the stars and meeting the locals

Ringing it in: Chris and Elsa however spent the New Year together in Ibiza

White Christmas: The Hemsworths enjoyed a white Christmas in Austria last year with Chris' brother Liam and his model girlfriend Gabriella Brooks

She was joined by several girlfriends and their kids; her Thor star husband was not seen in any of the images.

Chris and Elsa did however spend the New Year together in Ibiza.

The Hemsworths enjoyed a white Christmas in Austria last year with Chris' brother Liam and his model girlfriend Gabriella Brooks.

The couple, who are based in Byron Bay, jetted to Europe late last year for Chris to shoot Extraction 2 for Netflix.

The European shoot is expected to last until March.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Nicole Corry says she didnt become a personal support worker to be called a hero. But she never anticipated that she would be villainized as she puts her health and familys welfare on the line to care for others amid a pandemic.

In the small industrial city of Sarnia in southwestern Ontario, Corry and her colleagues at Bluewater Health hospital are straining every nerve to see their community through the COVID-19 crisis, including those members who target them with pandemic grievances.

This duty of care to every patient, regardless of views or vaccination status, has been a lodestar for hospital staff.

Nicole Corry, a personal support worker who works with COVID-19 patients in the Medical Inpatient Unit at the Bluewater Health Hospital in Sarnia, Ont., is photographed on Tuesday, January 25, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

But the COVID-19 surge fuelled by the Omicron variant has put this resolve to the test as health workers contend with accumulated burnout, depleted resources and more staff out sick  compounded by the unsettling sense that some of their neighbours have turned against them.

Corry said her workload has doubled. She shuttles from room to room tending to patients basic needs and providing the connection they miss from loved ones, often at the expense of spending time with her own partner and child.

The vast majority of Sarnias residents have stood by health workers throughout the pandemic. But Corry said all it takes is a few vocal detractors to dampen flickering morale.

Corry said shes seen social media posts denigrate the quality of care she and her colleagues provide. Shes been hassled on the way to work over the hospitals vaccination mandates, then returned to her car to find a flyer calling the policy garbage fixed to her door.

We went from being heroes last year to people literally standing outside the hospital yelling and screaming at us for something we never did, Corry said.

If we have community support, it makes it a lot better to come to work. And we dont need to be thanked. We just want to be respected and go on about doing our jobs.

Across Canada, the neighbourhood pots-and-pan symphonies that heralded hospital workers during the first COVID-19 wave have long fallen silent. But as the virus rages on, a new kind of clamour has erupted from a small segment of the population eager to scapegoat health workers for public health restrictions.

The people who work in our hospitals are not the people who make the policies around vaccine mandates, said Dr. Katharine Smart, president of the Canadian Medical Association. Theyre the people who are still showing up and caring for Canadians.

In recent months, health workers across the country have faced escalating levels of intimidation and harassment, including protests, personal threats and violent behaviour by patients in denial about having COVID-19, said Smart.

The Whitehorse pediatrician said these hostilities can be particularly potent in smaller communities where the ties that bind health workers and patients can make the divisions cut that much deeper.

Its easier to brush off people who are anonymous to you, she said. To see people you live with in your community treating you that way or being that negative is really hard, and I think it does hit closer to home.

In Sarnia, this dynamic has put health workers on the defensive as tensions over vaccination clash along the front lines of the COVID-19 fight.

At the centre of the fray is Bluewater Health, which with headquarters in Sarnia and a campus in the rural town of Petrolia, serves as the medical hub for Lambton Countys roughly 127,000 residents. Its also one of the countys largest employers, alongside the cluster of petrochemical plants known as Chemical Valley.

Many in the community have gone out of their way to support the hospital through donations and public displays of appreciation. But just as Omicron pushed staff to their limits, the cheers were drowned out by a small contingent of protesters spreading anti-vaccine sentiment, said Dr. Michel Haddad, chief of staff at Bluewater Health.

Theres some fractures in the community. Vaccinated/not vaccinated is becoming politicized, and people are taking out their anger on the wrong people, he said.

Lambtons public health unit has reported that 79 per cent of people aged five and up are fully vaccinated, which is one of the lowest rates in Ontario, according to the latest provincial figures.

The Omicron variant hit the Sarnia region early and hard in mid-December, said Haddad, and presaged the surge that would soon slam across the province.

Initially, between 80 and 100 per cent of COVID-19 patients in the ICU were unvaccinated, he said. This cohort continued to take up a disproportionate number of beds as more fully vaccinated people, many of them immunocompromised, were wheeled into the intensive care ward.

Between Christmas Day and Jan. 25, the hospital lost 18 people to the virus, Haddad said.

Health workers dont treat patients differently based on their immunization status, even if they protested outside the hospital prior to admission, Haddad said.

Many of the people who might be yelling at us end up needing us, and we treat them just like theyre our own brothers and sisters, he said.

Emergency physician Dr. Mark Woodcroft said health workers arent prone to complaining, but he can see the fatigue on peoples faces as many have taken on extra shifts and cancelled vacations.

Woodcroft said hes beenwelcomed to work by protesters wielding signs that read COVID hoax or killer vaccine andpamphlets that purport to contain the real facts about the virus.

It takes a toll on all of us as health-care workers  to work so hard, trying to save peoples lives, and just to see and hear people doubting about the fact that the virus is real, he said. We know how real it is and how devastating it can be.

Nadine Neve, interim system navigation lead for the Sarnia-Lambton Ontario Health Team, said local vaccination clinics have also run into problems with protesters.

She tries not to let the provocations of a few detract from the outpouring of community support for the immunization effort.

Every time a clinic is launched, Neve said her inbox is flooded with offers from volunteers looking to lend a hand, among them retired physicians who signed up to wipe down chairs between appointments.

But at times, the confrontations can feel personal.

I remember one day specifically where someone was screaming at me that I was a murderer out in the parking lot, she said. And I went home that night, and I thought, no, thats not what I am.

It was upsetting that someone would think that when I did not go into health care to harm anyone.

Neve said shes worked in other hospitals before but nothing compares to the family shes found in Sarnia. She hopes that spirit will see the community through the collective challenges of the pandemic, even when disagreements arise.

In the last few weeks, Neve said shes noticed an uptick in people coming in for their first COVID-19 vaccine shot. While she cant speak to anyones motivations, she noted that followed news that a young person had died of COVID-19.

I see a lot of the signs that are out there that say, My body, my choice,' she said. But its always your choice to change your mind too.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 3, 2022.
Bangkok could do more on humanitarian front as well, they add.

Villagers displaced due to Myanmar military attacks sit outside their makeshift huts on the banks of the Moei River by the Thailand Myanmar border in Mae Sot, northern Thailand, Jan. 24, 2022.

Thailand, which shares a long history and border with Myanmar, should do more to address the crisis there, experts and activists said, one year after the Burmese military seized power in a coup.

While the Thai foreign ministry says it has been calling for a peaceful solution to the turmoil in neighboring Myanmar, U Kyaw Win, executive director of the Burma Human Rights Network, says that is not nearly enough.

Thailand should be more vocal than Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore, because Thailand, as a frontline state, is facing more consequences than these three countries, economically and security-wise, he said.

He was referring to the three influential ASEAN countries that have consistently  and vocally  condemned the coup. Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore were also instrumental in shutting out coup leader Min Aung Hlaing from the regional blocs big summit last October.

The three countries, along with Thailand, were among the five founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. But Thailand, which has long been considered a linchpin in ASEAN-Myanmar relations, has been criticized throughout the past year as being relatively soft on the post-coup crisis and the mass killings since then that have divided the regional bloc.

On Tuesday, the one-year anniversary of the coup, Indonesia and Singapore also issued strongly worded statements, with the former saying it deplores the militarys actions and the city-state expressing concern that conditions in Myanmar for the people continue to deteriorate a year on from the overthrow of an elected civilian government.

Thailand should join the world community in condemning the violence and prohibit the selling of arms to the Myanmar army, a retired Thai diplomat, Russ Jalichandra, told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.

When contacted about the allegations that the Thai government had not done enough, foreign ministry spokesman Tanee Sangrat defended the governments stand.

Thailand has been closely following developments in Myanmar with concern and wishes to see a quick return to peace and stability, Tanee told BenarNews on Wednesday.

Thailand has been consistently calling for de-escalation and a cessation of violence, the further release of detainees, and a peaceful solution through dialogue among relevant parties in Myanmar, he added.

Russ was derisive about the governments statements.

We would like to see a peaceful settlement to the conflict, blah blah. But I dont see any condemnation from the Thai side. There are Thai people along the border who are affected by the ongoing fighting in Myanmar, said Russ, a former Thai ambassador to Mozambique and Kazakhstan.

We have reports of some Thai boats being shot by the Myanmar army along the river bordering Thailand and Myanmar.  I have seen no evidence of the Thai government even defending their own people. This is gravely, gravely wrong. It's unbelievable in my opinion, he added.

Myanmar Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing toppled the democratically elected government in Myanmar on Feb. 1 last year, threw many democratic leaders in jail, and then after, turned the guns on his own people who were protesting against the militarys actions.

Since the coup, at least 1,685 civilians  most of them pro-democracy protesters  have been killed by security forces until December 2021, according to the Burma Human Rights Network.

Both have no respect for human rights



Why has Thailand lagged in condemning the coup? Because the Thai government and the Burmese junta share certain crucial characteristics, according to Russ, the former ambassador.

Both the Thai government and Myanmar junta share a similar uniform, similar values, and similar traits. Both have no respect for human rights and international law, he said.

Russ alleged that the 2014 Thailand coup by Prayuth Chan-o-cha, the then-army chief of staff and the current prime minister, may have been an inspiration for the Burmese junta when it decided to rob power from the civilian government.

On a certain level, the coup detat in Thailand was like an influence, more or less, for the Myanmar army to copy, the ex-diplomat said.

Russ said that the Thai governments previous and recent actions reflect its stand on the Burmese military and the military coup in Naypyidaw.

For instance, Min Aung Hlaing was the first foreign dignitary to visit Thailand within two months after the 2014 Thai coup. Whats more, in 2018, he received the (First Class) of the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant, a military-civilian order awarded by the king of Thailand.

And since the coup, Thailand didnt vote against selling arms to Myanmar last year, so its quite clear what the current Thai government is thinking, Russ said.

So, while [the Thai government and Prayuth] do wield some influence over the Myanmar military, this closeness will not be of any advantage to the people.

Russ was referring to a June 2021 vote in the General Assembly on a U.N. resolution calling for preventing the flow of arms to Myanmar. ASEAN members Brunei, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand abstained from the vote.

Burmese activist Pan Hsu Pyae Eain, who fled to Myanmar for Thailand after last years coup, attends an exhibition on the Myanmar protests, in Bangkok, Feb. 1, 2022. Credit: BenarNews A mixed bag

Not all are critical of Thailand, though.

Burmese activist Pan Hsu Pyae Eain, who managed to flee to Thailand last October, said she considered herself lucky.

Thailand is always the first country many human rights defenders and activists like me think of when we think about leaving the country, she told BenarNews in Bangkok.

Thai [people] are really in line with us Burmese people. They are very supportive. I feel like they have solidarity with our cause, she said.

Pan Hsu said she did not expect the Thai government to support the Burmese peoples fight for democracy.

[B]ut I hope they will extend more humanitarian assistance to the displaced and migrants who cross the border. They can do more.

U Kyaw Win, of the Burma Human Rights Network, agreed with Pan Hsu.

We are very appreciative of what Thailand has done so far  Thailand needs to do more to help us, especially in cross-border humanitarian aid, which is extremely important to save millions of lives, he told BenarNews.

For Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director for Human Rights Watch, the Thai government has exhibited a mixed bag of reactions toward the political and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar.

On the one hand, a significant number of political refugees  have been able to flee to Thailand, have been able to stay in Thailand, Robertson, who is based in Bangkok, told BenarNews.

If the Thai authorities wanted to stop that, they could, and they have not. So, there is, in some ways, positive recognition by Thai authorities that they have to maintain some humanitarian principles in terms of allowing people to flee here.

However, he said, there has been a real reluctance, particularly by the Thai Army, to allow people fleeing the aerial bombardments in Myanmar to come across the border to Thailand and receive basic humanitarian protection.

Thai authorities believe that if some come, many people will come in; they will stay, and they will have another refugee crisis, Robertson said.

I dont think thats the case.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
VALLETTA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Malta's residents will receive financial assistance as part of a 70-million-euro (80 million U.S. dollars) injection into the economy to partly offset the pandemic-induced price increases, Prime Minister Robert Abela said here on Thursday.

Workers and students will receive 100 euros each, while pensioners and people on social benefits will receive 200 euros each, Abela told a press conference with Finance Minister Clyde Caruana.

"This is a cash injection in the economy to generate economic activity," Abela said. "We will be your shield against the pandemic."

He explained that the cash injection, from which some 380,000 people will benefit, will be over and above the annual tax refunds of between 60 euros and 145 euros, which workers will receive.

Malta's deficit forecasts of 11.1 percent were being revised downwards to 8.1 percent and the stimulus package was within the government's financial means, said Caruana. 
In context: It feels like just about every company is trying to hop on board the cryptocurrency train, and Facebook was no different. Back in 2019, the social media giant unveiled "Libra," its own cryptocurrency that was intended to provide underserved people with access to a financial network powered by the blockchain.

Naturally, as with any big project Facebook unveils, the world was skeptical, to say the least. So skeptical, in fact, that many of Facebook's would-be financial partners (including PayPal, Mastercard, and others) dropped support for the crypto before it even got off the ground. It didn't help that Lawmakers were worried Facebook would have too much control over the crypto; given how widespread the social media company's reach is throughout the world.

The Libra Association was designed to combat those fears -- it would've handed control over the crypto to a consortium of companies, including the ones mentioned above. However, as of now, Libra -- which rebranded to Diem in 2021 -- has been killed off for the time being. Or, more accurately, its assets have been sold to the Silvergate Capital Corporation, and Facebook's plans for Diem will likely never see the light of day.

This news comes directly from Diem's CEO, Stuart Levey, who published a lengthy statement discussing the Association's decision on Monday. As for concrete explanations, there aren't many to be found there. Levey merely notes that after an extended dialogue with federal regulators, it became clear that the project "could not move ahead," despite allegedly receiving high praise from an unnamed "senior" regulator.

That's bad news for Facebook's crypto ambitions, but it was clear from the start that Libra had the odds stacked against it. After losing support from several high-profile partners, it just didn't have the footing it needed to fully realize its potential.

Levey still remains hopeful that a crypto with a similar design to Diem could succeed in the long run. Indeed, he feels that, under Silvergate's leadership, the ideals and principles behind Diem can thrive. But only time will tell if his hopes are well-founded.
If you're not concerned about the rate at which U.S. crude oil production could grow this year, you should be, ConocoPhillips Chief executive Officer Ryan Lance said on a conference call on Thursday, according to Bloomberg.

U.S. crude oil production has grown from 11 million bpd at the beginning of 2021 to 11.7 million bpd at the beginning of 2022. But production in the United States could see sharper growth this year, Lance noted.

According to Lance, U.S. crude oil production could grow by as much as 900,000 bpd over the course of 2022this is an increase of 100,000 bpd from Lance's previous estimate.

This rate of crude oil production growth could cause worry, despite the current tight market.

"If you're not worried about it you should be.," Lance said.

One need only to look at the U.S.-based oil production plans from some of the largest oil companies. Earlier this week, Exxon and Chevron divulged their 2022 plans that detailed aggressive production increasesparticularly in the Permian basin.

Exxon has plans to increase oil production in the Permian by 25% this year. Chevron, for its part, expects its production to increase 10%.

The Energy Information Administration agrees that oil production in the United States is poised for a surgeafter already reaching a new record. According to the EIA, crude production in the Permian shale play averaged 4.92 million bpd in December, and was set to increase to 4.996 million bpd in January and 5.076 million bpd in February. If the Permian basin were an OPEC member, this level of production would make it OPEC's second-largest producer.

IHS Markit noted that this year's higher oil prices would enable many oil producers to not only return cash to shareholders, but also to ramp up productionunlike in 2020 and 2021.

But contrary to ConocoPhillips' warning, not everyone is concerned that the United States will be able to ramp up production enough to bring down crude prices. Earlier this week, Bloomberg quoted Elisabeth Murphy from ESAI Energy as saying, "U.S. production may surprise to the upside this year, but not by so much that it will significantly bring down oil prices."

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
The Worst Person in the World is just that: The film is about a singular person.

Director Joachim Trier clarified that his conclusion to his Oslo trilogy is a character piece about one specific woman  Julie, played by Renate Reinsve  and her journey to finding herself, not an analysis on modern feminism as a whole.

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I did not want to make a general statement about what it means to be a woman today, that would be impossible, Trier told Variety. The fact of her being a woman eventually comes in to play by itself, through trying to portray truthful situations with humor and satire, and different things that I have experienced, seen or imagined.

Trier added, I dont have so much control when I write, my co-writer Eskil Vogt and I try to find interesting ideas and we try to explore them truthfully. The great thing about art is that it doesnt have to be an analysis or sociological study: We can try to tell something honest about one person, and out of that, there may be something bigger to think about.

The Worst Person in the World premiered in competition at 2021 Cannes, where it was acquired by Neon for domestic rights. Reinsve also won a Best Actress award at the festival.

Some of the questions we are asking in the film are existential and I guess could apply to all people, Trier said. This film deals with how relationships mirror our existential expectations of life. In our culture, we are brought up to expect love to be the place where we fulfill ourselves, and the same with careers.

And just like the specificity of Julies story was central to The Worst Person in the World, so was its location.

Trier filmed in his native Norway, calling the light very special in Oslo, where the film is set.

Oslo is changing a lot, it has grown tremendously as a city, and throughout my films, I try to show the history of the city, Trier continued. I love that sense of specificity of a place in movies. When I watch a Martin Scorsese or a Spike Lee movie, I like to see the parts of New York that they show. For a filmmaker, its a cinematic gift to have a place that you know intimately, that you can film and show to an audience. Oslo is exactly this to me. Making films for me is about memory, spaces, and time.

Story continues

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The Dipson McKinley Mall Cinema, which has been a discount movie house for a decade, is returning to its roots as a first-run theater.

That means the six-screen theater in Hamburg will now show movies on their national release date instead of having their arrival delayed a month to two months as a second-run film. Among the movies that will now open immediately at the McKinley Mall are the Jennifer Lopez romantic comedy Marry Me on Feb. 11, the Tom Holland-Mark Wahlberg adventure film Uncharted on March 18 and the much-anticipated "The Batman" on March 4.

Dipson President Michael Clement said the decision was made for a simple reason: fewer movies.

"Covid has had a tremendous effect on Hollywood and movie theaters. There are less movies being released and that will continue until this is over," Clement said. "Without enough first-run movies, that directly affects the second-run theaters."

Streaming is also changing the movie landscape with some films moving from first-run theaters directly to streaming, and others bypassing a theatrical release completely.

"The windows have shrunk where we believe playing first-run movies at the McKinley would benefit everyone," Clement added.

While concession prices will remain the same, the upgrade to showing first-run films will lead to an increase in admission. Matinee showings before 5 p.m. will be $7; after 5 p.m., general admission tickets are $10. Seniors (65 and older) and youth (12 and younger) will pay $7 all day. Tuesdays will remain bargain days with half-price concessions and $6 tickets for movies from participating studios. General admission tickets at national chains start at about $12 locally.

Other changes may be coming, too.

The State Liquor Authority board recently decided to allow all movie theaters to be able to apply for a liquor license. Previously, movie theaters had multiple restrictions including the costly addition of kitchen equipment and drink/food trays at each seat in the theater that Dipson added at its Amherst Theatre where it serves beer and wine.

While still awaiting the final legislation to pass, Dipson has applied for a beer and wine license for its other theaters, including the McKinley Mall.

The ruling is a "tremendous win" for historic theaters, independent cinemas and theater circuits, according to Joe Masher, president of the National Association of Theatre Owners of New York State.

"New York State was among the last places in the country where this was still restricted. As moviegoers continue to return to the big screen and given the incredible economic disruption the pandemic has caused, this will help keep many independent, local theaters, particularly in Upstate downtowns and commercial corridors, in business and employing local people," Masher said in a statement.

Once it gets approval, Clement said the other Dipson cinemas would do the same as the Amherst Theatre and focus on serving products from local breweries.

Locally owned and operated, Dipson Theatres has been in operation since 1939 and now owns seven locations with 35 screens including the Amherst Theatre, Eastern Hills Cinema, Flix Stadium 10 in Lancaster, Lakewood Cinema 8 in Lakewood and Warren Mall Cinemas in Warren, Pa. It bought the McKinley Mall Cinemas in 2003 from AMC and changed them to a second-run discount house in 2012.
A student rides a VeoRide bicycle on the University of Illinois campus. Credit: College of ACES, University of Illinois.

Bikeshare systems have come a long way since they were first introduced in the Netherlands in the 1960s. They are popular in cities around the world, but how do bike systems affect existing public transportation? That's the topic of a new paper from the University of Illinois, published in Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice.

The researchers study the impact of bikeshare bikes in U of I's hometown, the midsize metropolitan area of Champaign-Urbana in Central Illinois. The town houses 500 VeoRide bikeshare bikes on campus and in the wider communities, 400 of which are electric. All are dockless, meaning they can be picked up and parked anywhere.

Since VeoRide launched in 2018, Champaign-Urbana has seen an increase in bikeshare riding, while bus ridership in the United States has declined since 2014.

"On one hand, bikeshare has the potential to compete with other transit types due to the convenience and speed (especially electric bikes). On the other hand, bikes might complement bus transit by replacing just a segment of the trip," says Yilan Xu, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics (ACE) at U of I, and co-author on the paper.

Dockless systems especially can help solve the age-old problem of the first and last mile of a trip, allowing users to ride directly to the bus stop or their final destination, Xu notes.

In order to determine how bikeshare interacts with the bus system, Xu and Rebecca Martin, who was a graduate student in ACE when the research was conducted, measured the number of boarding passengers at bus stops in each hour between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. during the fall season.

The biggest challenge to pinpointing the effect of bikeshare on bus ridership is that ridership naturally varies from year to year due to factors the researchers cannot measure, Xu notes. Simply comparing ridership before and after the VeoRide bikeshare system was introduced or the year bikes were upgraded to electric could not measure the true effect.

Instead, Martin and Xu compared the differences in the ridership between dry and rainy hours across years, leveraging the fact that rainy hours are less desirable for bike-riding and therefore serve as a good control for the ridership trajectory in the absence of the bikeshare.

Rather than replacing or diminishing bus riding, the researchers found the bikeshare system supported ridership. In fact, pedal bikes increased the number of bus rides by 1%, and the introduction of electric bikes took that to 2.1%. The bus system in Champaign-Urbana had over 12 million passenger trips in 2017; thus, ridership could increase with 120,000 to 252,000 trips per year.

The timing of the complementary use suggests that people are using bikes to solve the first/last mile problem, while the locations suggest socioeconomically disadvantaged and young people benefited more from the option of bikeshare.

"This is encouraging news to bikeshare and traditional public transit systems," Xu says.

Bikeshare is a public benefit because it helps people access mass transit, everyday amenities, and job opportunities. Martin and Xu have several suggestions for city planners and city governments based on their data and other factors.

"Governments may want to invest in infrastructure like bike lanes and facilitate a bike-friendly community and encourage bikeshare companies to distribute their bikes in spots that would solve the first/last mile problem, probably by using a dockless system," Xu concludes.

"Finally, transit systems and bikeshare systems may want to create partnerships to integrate charging systems that allow transfers between bikeshare and bus ride. This is going to create a win-win for both parties and benefit consumers."

The paper, "Is tech-enhanced bikeshare a substitute or complement for public transit?" is published in Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice.

Explore further Bikeshare could increase light rail transit ridership

More information: Rebecca Martin et al, Is tech-enhanced bikeshare a substitute or complement for public transit?, Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice (2021). Rebecca Martin et al, Is tech-enhanced bikeshare a substitute or complement for public transit?,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.tra.2021.11.007
Kyle Sandilands has buried the hatchet with his radio co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson, a day after his on-air meltdown and dramatic walk-out during their live show on Wednesday.

On Thursday, the 50-year-old appeared in good spirits as he lit up a cigarette alongside his best pal and colleague on the balcony of their North Ryde KIIS studios.

The iconic duo were all smiles as they chatted with other staff members, clearly having moved on from shock jock's on-air tantrum a day prior.

Sandilands' explosive outburst saw him storm out of the studio in a fit of rage after discussing Gladys Berejiklian's alleged text message exchange with a Liberal minister in which she called Prime Minister Scott Morrison a 'horrible person'.

Back on track: Kyle Sandilands proved he'd buried the hatchet with his radio co-host and close pal Jackie 'O' Henderson on Thursday, one day after his astonishing on-air meltdown which saw him storm out of their live show

After apologising for calling Jackie an 'idiot' during their show on Thursday, Kyle looked relaxed as he puffed away on a cigarette.

He dressed casually in one of his signature black T-shirts worn over a sleeveless puffer jacket.

His co-host Jackie - who was not smoking - looked equally as comfortable in an oversized black T-shirt, and accessorised with a pair of large Fendi earrings.

The group sat on white deck chairs and appeared to stay for a while as they enjoyed some fresh air.

At one stage, Sandilands was seen speaking politely to newsreader Brooklyn Ross - who he had called a 'c**khead' for giving airtime to the story a day earlier.

Calm: After the show on Thursday, Sandilands looked relaxed

Giddy: The iconic duo were back to their usual smiling selves as they chatted with other staff members on the balcony

Friends: The group sat on white deck chairs, and appeared to stay for quite a while as they enjoyed some fresh air

Chatty: Kyle raised a smile as he spoke to some of the production staff - including Brooklyn Ross (centre) who he called a 'c**khead' for giving airtime to the story on Wednesday

During Thursday's show, Kyle doubled down on his tantrum and insisted it was 'justified'.

He added: 'I was so angry when I was leaving here, I did a huge burnout out the driveway.

'So the whole car was going sideways. I didn't care if I died, I was out of my mind.'

Smoking: Kyle has regularly discussed his smoking on his radio show, revealing in 2020 that he sometimes does it while in the shower

All smiles: Jackie looked to be in a cheery mood following a dramatic day on Wednesday

No regrets: During Thursday's show, Kyle doubled down on his tantrum and insisted it was 'justified'

Right: Discussing his behaviour on Thursday's show, Sandilands declared: 'I felt very justified'

Sandilands said he had 'every right' to claim that Berejiklian's alleged text messages were 'not real news' because he 'runs this place'.

'I noticed a few people commenting, "What right does Kyle have to decide what the news is?" Well, every right. Because I run the show! I'm not an employee by the way',' he said.

Despite standing his ground, Sandilands did apologise to Henderson and Ross.

'Friends can have falling outs and disagreements,' he insisted.

Chic: Jackie looked equally as comfortable in an oversized black T-shirt, and accessorised with a pair of large statement earrings

Apology: 'Friends can have falling outs and disagreements,' Kyle said on Thursday after apologising to Jackie

His view: Sandilands said he had 'every right' to claim that Berejiklian's alleged text messages were 'not real news' because he 'runs this place'

'Friends can have falling outs and disagreements': However, Sandilands did apologise to Henderson for calling her an 'idiot' and Ross for branding him a 'c**khead' during his furious on-air rant yesterday

The shock jock did however admit he felt embarrassed by the dramatic nature of his meltdown.

At the start of the show, Henderson greeted Sandilands carefully, asking him: 'Good to have you back. How are you feeling today?'

'Feeling pretty good. Yeah... sort of,' a sheepish Sandilands murmured.

Enraged: Sandilands dramatically stormed out of the KIIS FM studios on Wednesday during a discussion about former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian's leaked text message exchange with a Liberal minister in which she called Prime Minister Scott Morrison a 'horrible person'

'Are you OK over there? You look like you're going to cry,' Henderson probed, prompting Sandilands to confess: 'Oh, it's a bit embarrassing, yesterday's carry-on.'

Sandilands added: 'I was reading an article yesterday, and it said I went on a 12-minute meltdown. Was it 12 minutes? Of me continually screaming and carrying on?'

Sandilands stormed out of the studios shortly after 6am on Wednesday.

Allegations: The bombshell texts allegedly claimed Gladys Berejiklian (pictured) did not trust the PM and he was more concerned with politics than people

Things escalated quickly with Sandilands hurling insults before telling Henderson, 47, to 'do the show by yourself' and walking off.

'This is the biggest news in Australia, and it's all over nothing,' he began his rant.

'So what if the ex-premier called the Prime Minister a "horrible, horrible person"? I've called everyone here an effing c in text messages. I wouldn't be surprised if Gladys was just pacifying whatever loser minister she was talking to.

'This is not real news. Don't make up fictitious b******t drama over nothing.'

Blindsided: Sandilands' colleagues were genuinely shocked by his behaviour, and Henderson later remarked it had been 'very dramatic'

When Henderson insisted the story was newsworthy, Sandilands snapped: 'We don't have to run around every time some c********r from the ABC asks a question.'

Sandilands was actually incorrect: the journalist who exposed the leaked texts at a press conference on Tuesday was Peter van Onselen of Channel 10.

He continued: 'I'm angry. This is the way the world has been ruined  by d**kheads on the news turning these things into b******t moments.'

Heated: Sandilands called newsreader Brooklyn Ross (pictured) a 'f**king lazy loser journalist' to his face when he tried to defend including the story in his morning bulletin

He then called Ross a 'f**king lazy loser journalist' to his face when he tried to defend including the story in his morning bulletin.

A frustrated Henderson then asked: 'What's up with you this morning?'

Ross tried to defend the newsworthiness of Berejiklian's texts again, prompting Sandilands to yell at him: 'Just turn your mic off! You're finished! Get out!'

Insults: Things escalated quickly with Sandilands (left) hurling insults at his co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson (right) and newsreader Brooklyn Ross before walking off

He then got up and walked out of the studio, saying bitterly: 'I'm going home. F**k you. Do the show by yourself, what a f**king show it'll be.'

Henderson said afterwards: 'Okay, I think we'll take a short break, because I'm not even sure what happened. Did something happen before I got here? Was it all good?'

Sandilands' colleagues were genuinely shocked by his behaviour, and Henderson later remarked it had been 'very dramatic'.

Headline news: He lost his temper shortly after 6am while discussing former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian's leaked text messages blasting Prime Minister Scott Morrison (pictured)

News: Network Ten political editor Peter van Onselen confronted the PM on live TV with the series of incendiary text messages savaging Scott Morrison that he said were between Gladys Berejiklian (pictured here with the PM) and a current Liberal minister

Network Ten political editor Peter van Onselen on Tuesday confronted the PM on live TV with the incendiary text messages savaging Mr Morrison that he said were between Ms Berejiklian and a current Liberal minister.

'I've got them right here,' he told Mr Morrison as the PM faced questions from the media after his keynote speech to the National Press Club.

'In one, she described you as, quote, "a horrible, horrible person", going on to say she did not trust you, and you're more concerned with politics than people.

Question: Peter van Onselen's (pictured) blockbuster question left the PM almost speechless and was dismissed with a few curt sentences

'The minister is even more scathing, describing you as a fraud and, quote, "a complete psycho".'

In a statement released hours later, Ms Berejiklian said she had 'no recollection' of the remarks, but didn't deny they were said.

'Does this exchange surprise you?' asked van Onselen. 'And what do you think it tells us?'

The Prime Minister was left almost speechless, blinking in shock by the surprise attack, before replying curtly and moving on to the next question.

'Well, I don't know who you're referring to, or the basis of what you've put to me,' he said. 'But I obviously don't agree with it. And I don't think that's my record.'
Megan Barton-Hanson put on a busty display as she posed in an orange bikini in a picture shared on her Instagram page on Wednesday.

The former Love Island star, 27, took to the social media site to let her fans know when she'd be appearing on the upcoming series of Celebrity Ex On The Beach.

She captioned her post: 'Lets go!!! Tuesday 15th at 10pm on @mtv.'

Smokin': Megan Barton-Hanson, 27, put on a busty display as she posed in an orange bikini in a picture shared on her Instagram page on Wednesday

The television personality looked glamorous in her picture, wearing lashings of make-up to highlight her pretty facial feature.

OnlyFans creator Megan also shared a promotional poster for the show in which she can be seen laying on a sun lounger in her swimwear while ex James Lock, 35, rubs sunblock into her back.

The pair are alongside Megan's fellow Love Island alum Mike Boateng, 30, with the trio looking shocked in the snap.

Dramatic: OnlyFans creator Megan also shared a promotional poster for the show in which she can be seen laying on a sun lounger in her swimwear alongside ex James Lock, 35

On the poster, the start date of the show is stated, along with the words: 'They're gonna need protection.'

MTV bosses released the first teaser for Celebrity Ex On The Beach on Wednesday as a slew of new stars prepare to reunite with their former flames.

As ever the stars' beach getaway won't be a smooth ride, as while they are forced to come face-to-face with their exes during the trip, they'll also be greeted with a shocking twist in the form of the Shack of Secrets.

Tense: Celebrity Ex On The Beach has released its much-anticipated first teaser, as a slew of new stars prepare to reunite with their former flames

Dramatic: Once again the stars the stars will be on a mission to find love at a luxurious villa in Gran Canaria, but it won't be smooch sailing as they are reunited with their former flames

Nervous: During the trailer, Love Island star Kaz Crossley confesses she 'feels sick' at the prospect of seeing her ex again

Arrival: In the preview, Nathan Henry can be seen heading into the villa, along with the other celebrities on a mission to find love

Arrival: In the preview, Nathan Henry can be seen heading into the villa, along with the other celebrities on a mission to find love

In the preview, Geordie Shore's Nathan Henry can be seen heading into the villa, while Love Island's Kaz Crossley admits she 'feels sick' at the prospect of seeing her ex again.

Petrified at the prospect of seeing their exes Megan and RuPaul's Drag Race UK star A'whora cry out in horror, before the celebrities share a toast to mark their sunny adventure.

After transforming into her Drag alter-ego, A'whora can be seen strutting her stuff by the pool, while influencer and Love Island Sweden star Sofie Karlstad and Too Hot to Handle's Kori Sampson enjoy a parachute ride.

Date time! Norwegian influencer Sofie Karlstad and Too Hot To Handle's Kori Sampson enjoy a parachute ride

Raging: Married at First Sight Australia star KC Osborne can be seen lashing out at her ex screaming: 'You've hurt me more than anyone in my entire life'

Exciting: The preview ends on a tense cliffhanger, setting the stage for the show's heart-stopping eliminations by warning that two stars will be asked to leave the villa

While the pair don't waste any time cementing their romance with a kiss, Nathan, clearly enjoying the trip, declares: 'Bring on the chorizo baby!'

Given they went onto date, and split, after filming the show, it's no surprise to see James also sharing a smooch with Megan in one of the trailer's blink-and-you'll-miss-it-moments.

But in typical Ex On The Beach fashion, it isn't long before the stars are greeted with an unexpected surprise, with the phone revealing some of their former flames are on the horizon.

Beginnings: Megan Barton Hanson (left) and James Lock (right) dated for two months in 2021 before splitting in December

Sizzling: Having had her fair share of romantic drama, Love Island star Kaz Crossley will also appear in the line-up

Hunky: Geordie Shore's Nathan Henry (left) and Too Hot To Handle star Kori Sampson will lead the male arrivals heading into the villa

Glamorous: After starring on Married At First Sight Australia, KC Osborne has made a trip across the pond to star in the show

As Kaz reads out a message saying: 'Whose Ex is next?' Mike Boateng can be seen gasping in horror.

KC is then greeted with one of her former flames, and it doesn't turn out well, as she furiously tells him: 'You've hurt me more than anyone in my entire life.'

Kaz also becomes embroiled in a feud of her own, storming down the beach, while Megan confesses: 'Living with an Ex is awful.'

The preview ends on a tense cliffhanger, setting the stage for the show's heart-stopping eliminations by warning that two stars will be asked to leave the villa.

Celebrity Ex on the Beach returns on Tuesday 15th February at 10pm on MTV.

Bring on the heartache! Mike Boateng, who starred on Love Island in 2020, is also heading into the villa to star in the show

Sizzling: Rounding out the lineup is Norwegian influencer Sofie Karlstead, who also starred on the Swedish version of Love Island
An unvaccinated pregnant mother who spent nearly five months battling COVID-19 in the hospital is expected to make a full recovery after surviving a heart attack and three strokes before delivering her baby boy.

Diana Crouch, 28, from Houston, Texas, tested positive for the virus in August 2021 after a persistent headache prompted her to visit an emergency room in Kingswood. Two days later, she returned to the ER and was told she had COVID pneumonia.

Neither she nor her husband Chris was vaccinated when she contracted COVID-19, but they have been since.

'The reason, obviously, for her was because she didn't think it would be good to get a vaccine while she was pregnant,' the father told ABC 13. 'The doctors said all of this could have been avoided if she was vaccinated. We'll never know at this point.'

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Diana Crouch, 28, from Houston, Texas, was unvaccinated when she contracted COVID-19 in August 2021 and spent nearly five months in the hospital battling complications from the virus

Two days after testing positive, she was diagnosed with COVID pneumonia and transferred to Texas Children's Hospital, where she was put on a ventilator and sedated at 18 weeks pregnant

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for people who are pregnant or have recently been pregnant as they are more likely to get severely ill with the virus.

According to the CDC, 'data suggest that the benefits of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine outweigh any known or potential risks of vaccination during pregnancy.'

Diana, who also had two children at home, was transferred to Texas Children's Hospital, where she was put on a ventilator and sedated at 18 weeks pregnant. After 17 days on it, her condition still didn't improve.

Dr. Cameron Dezfulian, who works as the medical director of adult congenital heart inpatient care at the hospital, put the expectant mom on an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine, a life-support system that removes blood from the body, oxygenates it, and returns it to the patient.

Diana's husband Chris said neither of them was vaccinated at the time, saying she didn't want to get the shot while she was pregnant

To help Diana reach a viable state of pregnancy, she was put on an ECMO machine, a device that oxygenates a patient's blood outside the body

At 25 weeks, she suffered three strokes and a heart attack on the same day. She gave birth to her baby boy via emergency cesarean section after her lung collapsed at 31 weeks

The goal was to get Diana to a viable state of pregnancy as Chris was adamant that he wanted to save both his wife and his unborn child.

At 25 weeks, she suffered three strokes and a heart attack on the same day. She was also having seizures.

After her lung collapsed at 31 weeks, she delivered her baby boy via emergency cesarean section.

Diana was introduced to her son three days after she gave birth and was taken off the ventilator shortly after.

Diana was introduced to her son three days after she gave birth and was taken off the ventilator shortly after

Diana was released from the hospital on December 23 after 139 days

Diana and Chris named their son Cameron after Dr. Cameron Dezfulian, the medical director of adult congenital heart inpatient care at the hospital, who treated her

She was sedated for weeks and doesn't remember much about her time in the hospital.

'It's scary,' she told ABC 13. 'You don't know you are out that long. I was in the hospital for almost five months. It felt like a year to me.'

It was determined the mother of three didn't need a lung transplant, and she was released from the hospital on December 23 after 139 days.

Diana and Chris named their son Cameron after Dr. Dezfulian.

'It's never happened before,' the doctor told ABC 13 of having a child named after him. 'When they told me, I was in tears. It's such an honor.

Dr. Dezfulian believes Diana (pictured before her COVID-19 battle) will make a full recovery

Diana and Chris also have two older children together in addition to their newborn son

Diana is still on oxygen on an as-needed basis. She is also going to physical and occupational therapies to help aid in her recovery

'I told them, I said, "I don't deserve this. I consider this one of a handful of miracles."

'[Chris] told me that, and he said, "We are just really grateful and believed that we would get through all of this."'

Dr. Dezfulian said Diana is one of seven expectant mothers in the country and he believes one of about 12 in the world to sustain her pregnancy while on ECMO.

He thinks she is going to make a full recovery, though she is still on oxygen on an as-needed basis. She is also going to physical and occupational therapies.

'God hugged me really tight,' Diana said. 'It wasn't possible without him. My child is a miracle too. I don't know how he got through it too.'
WAVERLY  A new building that would house Waverly Fire and Rescue and the citys municipal offices is planned to rise on 135th Street in Waverly, just west of Waverly High School. The project is still in its early stages, but the Waverly City Council took a step forward last week in naming JEO Consulting Group as the lead developer.

We felt confident that they could deliver on this type of multifunction facility, said Tony Larson, a member of the citizen advisory committee for the city council that weighed proposals from JEO, Schemmer and the duo of BVH Architecture and Kansas City-based SFS Architecture.

Larson said JEO has also been at the helm of similar construction projects in other small towns in the region, specifically a new fire station in Beatrice and a community center in Hickman. Those two projects factored into the advisory committees decision, Larson said.

With JEO on board, the next step is for City Administrator Stephanie Fisher to collaborate with JEO to formulate a scope of work, which will include conceptual designs for the building, as well as community engagement plans  such as a possible newsletter and public meetings  and financing options.

Because the project is in the early stages, no price tag has been attached and no financing plans have been announced. But Larson said he expects that the city will have numerous funding possibilities at its disposal, including grants, tax increases or assistance from the Waverly Rural Fire District. JEOs Beatrice and Hickman projects both received funding from voter-approved sales tax increases.

Fisher said the city has been planning for a new municipal building for over two years. The city purchased two lots  9810 and 9820 North 134th Street  in 2020, knowing that as Waverly continues to grow, the city will need larger and more modern facilities, she said.

One goal is to increase the size of our facilities, Fisher said. Both facilities also need to function better and be technologically up-to-date.

She said the current fire station is at maximum capacity and needs more space for meetings and locker rooms. There are necessary technology upgrades, too.

Fire Chief Jared Rains expressed similar facilities concerns to The News in December, pointing out that smaller vehicles block fire trucks from leaving the fire stations garage, causing inefficiencies when the fire department is heading out on a call.

Fisher also said the City Office on Lancashire Street is out of extra office space, lacks an adequate council chamber to accommodate large public attendance, and is without a proper conference room.

A formal timeline for the project is yet to be established. But Fisher said that once the council approves the scope of work, JEO will then perform a pre-planning and development study on the site on North 135th Street, which is expected to be completed by July 2022.

Sam Crisler is a reporter for The Waverly News. Reach him via email at samuel.crisler@wahoonewspaper.com.
An elite soldier who has alleged war veteran Ben Roberts-Smith was involved in the execution of two Afghan detainees has denied lying about the incidents, but admitted he drank from a prosthetic leg that he was told had been taken from one of the mens bodies.

A serving SAS soldier, known as Person 41, started giving evidence in the Federal Court in Sydney on Wednesday in Mr Roberts-Smiths defamation case against The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Canberra Times over a series of articles in 2018.

Ben Roberts-Smith arrives at the Federal Court in Sydney on Thursday. Credit:Kate Geraghty

He told the court on Wednesday that he had witnessed Mr Roberts-Smith frog-marching an Afghan man, throwing him to the ground and firing three to five rounds into his back during an SAS mission on Easter Sunday, 2009.

He said he also witnessed Mr Roberts-Smith telling another soldier, known as Person 4, to shoot a second Afghan detainee on the same day. Mr Roberts-Smith has previously given evidence denying he gave such a direction and insisting the man he killed on April 12, 2009, was armed and posed a threat.
More than 33billion of taxpayers' cash - equivalent to almost three National Insurance tax hikes - has been squandered or lost to fraudsters in the pandemic, a Daily Mail audit today reveals.

The astonishing tally  based on Government data  includes 17billion written off in unpaid bounce-back loans, with 5billion of the losses stolen by fraudsters.

It comes after the Department of Health this week admitted it had wasted almost 9billion on personal protective equipment, on top of 4billion lost from HMRC schemes.

But the mammoth number makes no allowance for either the 28billion Test and Trace programme, or two Government loan schemes that lent out 32billion, because waste figures have not yet been produced for these.

It means our figure of 33billion is certain to rise by many billions more.

The extraordinary losses dwarf the 12billion expected to be raised each year by April's planned national insurance hike - meaning the squandered cash could have covered almost three of these tax rises.

Today Tory MP Christopher Chope accused Boris Johnson of hiking taxes to pay for 'inexcusable waste'.

Steve Baker MP, the Tory deputy chairman of the Covid Recovery Group, said: 'As the state rushed headlong to cope with the pandemic, waste was bound to occur but this is breathtaking. It cannot be allowed to happen again.'

A Daily Mail audit has revealed 32.9billion of taxpayers' cash was squandered or lost to fraudsters during the pandemic - with big ticket items including 17billion of write offs on the bounce back loan scheme and 8.7billion of PPE waste

The revelations also led to calls for a full audit and a National Crime Agency investigation into the 'astronomical levels of fraud'.

Pressure had already been mounting on the Government after anti-fraud minister Lord Agnew resigned last month, damning the 'lamentable' record on loan fraud.

Families are also facing a cost of living crisis which is expected to see bills rise by 2,000 per year on average from April.

The Covid-19 pandemic has already cost the Government between 315billion and 410billion, equivalent to between 4,700 to 6,100 per person in the UK.

As much of a tenth of this was lost to fraud, waste or loss.

This included loans worth 17billion granted under the bounce back loan scheme which will never be repaid.

In December, it emerged two international money launderers had cheated the taxpayer out of 10million of loans from the scheme while on bail. So far the police have recovered just 180,000.

Another 4billion is expected to be lost to fraudsters from the furlough scheme, the self-employed income support scheme, and the Eat Out To Help Out restaurant subsidy.

Yesterday HMRC boss Jim Harra was hauled before MPs to give an explanation.

Chairman Mel Stride MP of the Commons treasury committee, said: 'It must occur to you now that there are a small number of items you might have done differently?'

A further 1billion was lost from the business grants scheme, more than half a billion pounds was spent on the aborted Nightingale hospitals and 143million for ventilators was written off.

More than half a billion pounds was spent on the aborted Nightingale hospitals

The Government recently admitted it had overpaid 227million in Universal Credit in 2020/21.

It has been criticised for handing out 7billion of contracts to 1,100 per day consultants, and using just 11 per cent of call centre capacity.

A 6p increase on the basic rate of income tax would be required to plug the 33billion loss in a single year.

The increase in National Insurance, a rise of 1.5 per cent on both companies and employees, comes into force in April, just as the cap on household energy rises close to 2,000 per year.

Craig Mackinlay, a Tory member of the MPs' public accounts committee, said: 'The "someone else's money" attitude simply won't wash any more.'

A Government spokesman said: 'These figures are inaccurate, and the claims are categorically untrue.

'We have always been committed to using taxpayers' money responsibly and ensuring every pound is well spent.'
Residents of 2 villages say the arson was payback following a recent clash with militia fighters.

Troops in Myanmars embattled Sagaing region razed more than 400 homes in two villages they accuse of providing a haven for anti-junta forces, forcing an estimated 10,000 civilians to flee, residents said Wednesday.

The attack occurred on the evening of Jan. 31, when around 100 soldiers from Myaing township in neighboring Magwe region entered Mwe Tone and Pan villages in Sagaings Pale township and began setting structures ablaze, sources told RFAs Myanmar Service.

Soldiers showed up out of the blue that night, said one resident of Mwe Tone village who lost his house. They acted like they would move on, but then they started burning homes.

The whole village is gone. Only one or two homes are left. Then, they went on to the west and burned down homes in Pan village.

The resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to fear of reprisal, said troops destroyed some 220 of 265 homes in Mwe Tone and nearly one-fourth of the 800 homes in Pan.

I have been unable to return to the village, he said. I am staying at a monastery. They destroyed our homes even though we didnt attack them.

According to the resident, people fled when the soldiers entered the village, but were unable to take their belongings and lost their cattle in the blaze.

Details of the attack in Pan village, around two miles away, were not immediately available.

Prior to the fires, fighters with a local branch of the anti-junta Peoples Defense Force (PDF) militia had attacked an outpost in Inn Ma Htee village, where troops were reportedly conducting a training exercise for the pro-military Pyusawhtee militia group.

Villagers told RFA that the burning of the two villages was a form of payback for casualties the military suffered in the Inn Ma Htee village attack.

A resident of Pan village whose home was destroyed in the arson said he was barely able to recognize where he lived when he returned to the area.

The whole village has turned into a pile of ashes, said the villager, who also declined to be named. My 70-year-old father said he had never seen anything that bad in his entire life. Burning down our homes will not destroy our confidence. Now we have become more resentful.

Residents of Mwe Tone and Pan said nearly 10,000 people from the two villages and surrounding area fled their homes during the attack and are taking shelter at monasteries, in nearby villages and in makeshift jungle camps.

The military is burning down villages they think are strongholds of local PDF forces, the villager from Pan said.

Villagers from Mwe Tone cant go home now. Their village is a wasteland. The civilians are the ones bearing the brunt of the attacks.

Attempts by RFA to contact junta spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun to respond to allegations that troops burned homes in the two villages went unanswered Wednesday.

Pe Ee, a fighter with the PDF in Pale township, urged civilians to flee at the first sign of the military.

The junta has launched offensives against us using excessive force. The local PDF forces try to fight back, but its very lopsided, he said. Still, the military hasnt gained control of the region yet. The PDF has held the line.

According to Data for Myanmar, a research group focusing on the impact of armed conflict, arson has destroyed buildings in 90 villages throughout nine states and regions where the military is fighting against anti-junta forces since the military seized power in a Feb. 1, 2021, coup.

Reported by RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Ye Kaung Myint Maung. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
Ava DuVernay rocked a jaw-dropping look as she appeared on the cover of InStyle's March issue.

The 49-year-old director stunned in gravity-defying hairstyles and bold statement fashion in photos for the upcoming issue of the fashion magazine that will hit news stands on February 11.

The Academy Award nominee's long black dreadlocks were bound into a twisted loop at the crown of her head.

Stunning: Ava DuVernay rocked a jaw-dropping look as she appeared on the cover of InStyle's March issue

She modeled a black one-shoulder dress that featured a ruffled sleeve, a bodycon silhouette and a huge taffeta rose on the front.

Ava donned long bright blue latex gloves and accessorized with gold earrings.

Her makeup consisted of dramatic winged eyeliner, a glossy caramel lipstick, contoured blush and smoky eyeshadow.

Wow: The 49-year-old director stunned in gravity-defying hairstyles and bold statement fashion in photos for the upcoming issue of the fashion magazine that will hit news stands on February 11

In the cover photo, the filmmaker perched on a white block as she gave the camera a fierce stare.

She was seen with her hand on her hip as she turned to the side for a profile image inside the issue.

In another photo, Ava modeled a crepe lemon-yellow Proenza Schouler dress that had an orange-trimmed curved cutout at the neckline.

Avant-garde: The Long Beach, California native's avant-garde hairstyle featured three twisted loops on top of her head

The A Wrinkle in Time director sported gold sphere drop Agmes earrings and gold Missoma studs.

The Long Beach, California native's avant-garde hairstyle featured three twisted loops on top of her head.

Ava posed with her eyes closed, displaying Danessa Myricks Beauty's Colorx Eye, Cheek & Lip Cream Pigment in Goldmine.

Excited: On Thursday, Ava celebrated the issue on her Instagram page. Seen in 2021

On Thursday, Ava celebrated the issue on her Instagram page. She posted her images from the magazine and thanked InStyle Editor-In-Chief Laura Brown as well as others involved with the photoshoot in the caption.

She wrote, 'Laura Brown of @instylemagazine is a rebel in all the best ways. Its rare for a 49-year old Black woman director who doesnt act to a receive a cover fashion shoot invitation. Doesnt happen.

'At least not before @laurabrown99 rang me. She revels in shaking things up. We had a blast with @drkariwill who dreamt up these gravity defying hairstyles, @adamburrell who painted my face like the artist that he is and the fabulous photographer @chriseanrose, whose beautiful Black gaze made me feel beautiful.'

Ava continued, 'Also, thanks to @lizzzop. You know what you did, Lady. Youre a gem. And @toblergram for everything always. This whole experience was lovely. I see you, @instylemagazine! Thank you for seeing me.'

Glamming up: In the interview for the cover story, the director, who usually keeps the focus on her work, discussed her beauty and fashion favorites. Pictured in 2021

In the interview for the cover story, the director, who usually keeps the focus on her work, discussed her beauty and fashion favorites.

'The times I felt most beautiful were when I cut my hair,' she told InStyle. 'My pride was being a Black girl with long hair. Long, natural hair was seen as a thing. When I cut it, I felt more myself than I ever had, partly because I let go of that expectation.'

Ava also weighed on how her perceptions of beauty changed as she aged and how she came to embrace her natural hair.

'It was my journey with my hair, as I started to become more conscious about my history and my culture,' she explained. 'I was putting chemicals in my hair so it would look like your hair. I had to decolonize myself and say, "Is the hair growing out of my head in that texture?" And, "What does it look like if it just grows out?"

'I have different ideas about it, but for me, it was a journey of becoming more myself. When I opened my PR rm [The DuVernay Agency] at 27, I was trying to be more mature for my business and wanted to portray being older and more accomplished.

Beauty evolution: Ava also weighed on how her perceptions of beauty changed as she aged and how she came to embrace her natural hair. Seen in 2019

'But the beauty of age is that you get to a point where it's like, "The things I needed to feel tethered or anchored, those do not have meaning, and I can be free."'

She cited her 2017 Ashi Studio Oscars gown, her 2019 Reem Acra Emmys dress and her 2021 Met Gala Prada ensemble as her favorite red carpet looks.

However, Ava joked that her glamorous fashion moments are a departure from how she appears while on set.

'As lmmakers, we're the grungiest,' she told InStyle. 'When I'm on set directing, it is not a pretty sight.

'But when I have the occasion to present the work, I want to do whatever I can to promote, to share, to amplify.

Ava continued, 'For me, that's still a part of the making. I was a publicist, and I would see so many lmmakers create their lm, hand it off to a publicist, and walk away. And it's like, no. Until it reaches some eyeballs and some minds and hearts, you're still making this thing.'
by Nirmala Carvalho

Dalit group renews call that a Dalit be chosen as the new archbishop of Pondicherry-Cuddalore; local Dalits represent the vast majority of the faithful. Out of 18 dioceses in Tamil Nadu, only one has a Dalit bishop.

Chennai (AsiaNews)  A delegation representing the Dalit Christian Liberation Movement met yesterday with Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India, in Vellore, to discuss episcopal appointments in Tamil Nadu.

The choice of bishops has been a source of tensions among the faithful in the State over alleged caste-based discrimination against Dalit Catholics. In particular, the recent appointment of the new bishop of Salem has raised an outcry.

Led by President Mary John, the Dalit delegation handed the nuncio a memorandum in which the Dalit Christian Liberation Movement reiterates its requests, starting with the appointment of a Dalit as the new archbishop of Pondicherry-Cuddalore, a post that is currently vacant.

Hitherto no "untouchable or outcast" has ever become an archbishop despite the fact that they represent the majority of Catholics in this archdiocese.

For the Dalit advocacy group, Dalits should also be appointed to other dioceses in Tamil Nadu without a bishop since they represent 70 per cent of the States Catholic community. At present, only one episcopal see out of 18 is occupied by a Dalit.

We get the same baptism, say the same prayers and rosary, say the same Mass, same creed, partake and unite in the same Eucharist, receive same Sacraments, reads the appeal to the apostolic nuncio. Yet, when it comes to appointing to bishoprics, we are looked upon differently and excluded carefully. We do not understand how the Holy Spirit or the Grace of God can work like this.
Member of Parliament for Sekondi, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, vehemently opposes the idea of going to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for financial assistance amid Ghana's economic challenges.

Mr. Mercer argues that it will be better for the country to generate revenue internally than to turn to the IMF again, for assistance, which may come with a tall list of conditions.

Speaking at a government town hall meeting on E-Levy, in the Western Region, Mr. Mercer said, we can go to the IMF to support us, which is the easiest option available. But we have been to them over and over again. Their conditions as we know it, such as cutting down on public sector expenditure, reducing public sector wage bills, increasing revenue, will further burden our economy.

With all these in mind, why will we still go to them for aid when we can internally generate revenue? Government decided to go for the better option, which is raising revenue through the e-Levy.

His remarks come after calls from different stakeholders, including lawmakers, for the government to go to the IMF for financial support and policy credibility.

The government's plan to raise revenue through the Electronic Transaction Levy has been widely criticised by some financial analysts and even some members of the NPP, who have argued that the expected revenue from the controversial tax will not be enough.

---citinewsroom
As a part of his continued effort to break up consolidation in the agriculture industry, U.S. Senator Jon Tester today introduced his Agriculture Right to Repair Act, which will finally guarantee farmers the right to repair their own equipment and end current restrictions on the repair market.



Ive been a farmer my whole life, and Ive seen the unfair practices of equipment manufacturers make it harder and harder for folks to work on their tractors themselvesforcing them to go to an authorized mechanic and pay an arm and a leg for necessary repairs, said Tester. Manufacturers have prevented producers from fixing their own machines in order to bolster corporate profits, and theyve done it at the expense of family farmers and ranchers, who work hard every day to harvest the food that feeds families across the country. Farmers operate in tight windows and on tight margins, and they simply cant afford to waste time or money bringing their equipment to dealer authorized mechanics in the middle of a season. They need to be able to repair their own equipment, and this legislation will secure them that right.



With advanced technology now being incorporated into production agriculture, it has become more and more difficult for farmers and ranchers to fix their own equipment, hurting the bottom lines of both producers and local non dealer-certified repair shops. Testers legislation will combat the issue of right to repair by requiring original equipment manufacturers to make it easier for farmers to make these repairs and continue doing business in rural America.



Montana Farmers Union appreciates Senator Tester standing with family farms and ranches and demanding that equipment manufacturers allow us the right to repair our own equipment, said Montana Farmers Union President, Walter Schweitzer. Agriculture is a stressful line of work as is  we cant control the weather, prices for our production and inputs are dictated to us by the corporate monopolies, and now they wont let us repair our own equipment. Senator Tester cant control the weather either, but we appreciate him fighting for the folks in rural Montana.



The Agricultural Right to Repair Act is the common-sense, long-overdue shield that farmers have been waiting for  it restores farmer access to the parts, tools, and software necessary to repair their equipment and do their jobs, said Daniel Hanley, Senior Legal Analyst at the Open Market Institute. The Open Markets Institute has made right to repair a central component of our policy agenda. We believe this bill advances farmers right to repair and applaud Sen. Tester for stepping up for farmers.



Its simple: Farmers should be able to fix their own tractors. But manufacturer-imposed repair restrictions allow manufacturers to determine who does the repair, when and for how much. We need to give farmers repair choices and let them get back to producing the food that goes on our tables. Farmers are asking for helpthe Senate should pass the Agricultural Right to Repair Act to make it clear that they are listening," said Kevin OReilly, Right to Repair Campaign Director at the U.S. Public Interest Research Group.



Manufacturers have far too much control over what farmers are allowed to do with their own equipment, and this costs farmers time and money, said Rob Larew, President of the National Farmers Union. Senator Testers bill would give farmers and independent mechanics the freedom to fix their equipment in a timely and cost-effective way.



On behalf of the nations farmers and rural communities, we want to thank Senator Tester for introducing this legislation, said Sarah Carden, Policy Advocate for Farm Action. Instead of forcing farmers to haul their equipment hundreds of miles and pay out the nose for simple diagnostics, this bill gives them rights to the items theyve purchased and lets them focus on producing food for the rest of the country  all while giving independent repair shops a chance to compete.



"Everyone needs to be able to fix their stuff -- or they have to throw it away and buy new, or go without. This applies most acutely to farmers and ranchers, where the weather is fickle, rural locations are at great distances from help, and doing without means losing entire crops, said Gay Gordon-Byrne, Executive Director of The Repair Association. There are no good reasons for preventing equipment owners from fixing their purchases --- only bad excuses wrapped in the pretense of making farmers safer and more secure while creating unfair and deceptive repair monopolies that only benefit the manufacturer. Thanks to Senator Tester for helping to restore a free market for repairs, which will allow farmers to be more competitive, improve rural life, and allow family farms to stay in business and serve our nation.



This bill marks a major step forward in the fight to secure the right to repair. Copyright law should not prevent people from repairing things they own. This bill remedies one of the most outrageous abuses of modern copyright law by ensuring that farmers will no longer have to ask the Copyright Office for permission to repair their equipment every three years said Kathleen Burke, Policy Counsel at Public Knowledge.



Consumer Reports strongly supports consumers having the right to repair their own equipment on their own terms, rather than having to always return to the manufacturer or its hand-picked technician. More repair choices means more convenience and lower cost. This is as important for farmers as it is for all consumers. We applaud Senator Tester for his efforts to make the right to repair a reality for farmers, said George Slover, Senior Policy Counsel at Consumer Reports.



The monopolization of repair markets has been incredibly profitable for agribusiness giants, but its devastating farmers and ranchers across the country who are forced to pay more and wait to fix equipment they already own. With this legislation, Senator Tester is taking an important step towards revitalizing American agriculture and putting power back where it belongs: with American farmers, ranchers, and producers, said J.D. Scholten, Senior Advisor to the American Economic Liberties Project.



"Farmers are the kind of people who're in it for the long haul, and we expect the same from our equipment," said Doug Crabtree, member of the Organic Trade Association Board of Directors, organic farmer and owner of Vilicus Farms in Northern Hill Country, Montana. "If your car isn't running right, you don't just turn around and buy another one, you fix it. It's common sense that farmers should be able to do the same thing for their farm equipment. This legislation would ensure we're able to freely repair our farm machinery and make the most out of that investment. Waiting for the dealer isnt always an option. We may be several hours drive from the dealer service technician, or the tech may be another several hours in the other direction. We HAVE to be able to do our own repairs"



Testers legislation tackles consolidation in the repair market specifically by requiring equipment manufacturers to:

Make available any documentation, part, software, or tool required to diagnose, maintain, or repair their equipment.

Provide means to disable and re-enable an electronic security lock or other security-related function to effect diagnostics, repair, or maintenance.

Permit third party software to provide interoperability with other parts/tools, and to protect both the farmers data and equipment from hackers.

Ensure that when a manufacturer no longer produces documentation, parts, software, or tools for its equipment that the relevant copyrights and patents are placed in the public domain.

Ensure parts are replaceable using commonly available tools without causing damage to the equipment, or provide specialized tools to owners or independent providers on fair and reasonable terms.

Return data ownership to farmers. Manufacturers currently collect and sell all the data generated by farmers, and this data is the farmers secret sauce for how they conduct their business.

The legislation will also empower the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to treat any violations of the above provisions as an unfair or deceptive act. It also grants the FTC authority to promulgate regulations necessary to carry out this bill.



The text of Testers legislation can be found HERE.
A sign on an empty shelf at a Coles in Yokine, Perth, Australia on Feb. 2, 2022. (The Epoch Times)

West Australian Supermarkets Announce Buying Limits As Shelves Run Bare

Panic buying has forced supermarkets in Western Australia (WA) to reintroduce buying limits, with the state bracing for shortages for a selection of products amid an ongoing supply chain crisis.

Supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths have placed limits on goods normally imported from Australias eastern states, including toilet paper, painkillers, rice, pasta, and frozen vegetables.

West Australians who happen to be planning a cake baking bonanza should also be wary of limits on sugar, flour, and eggs.

Additionally, food distributors, responsible for servicing venues ranging from restaurants to hospitals, should expect to take a hit on certain goods.

However, meat and fresh produce are expected to be largely unaffected as WA sources most of its supply from within the state.

Empty shelves at a Coles in Yokine, Perth, Australia on Feb. 2, 2022. (The Epoch Times)

Signs displayed at shelves in Coles read: Due to COVID and rail disruptions in the supply chain, we are experiencing temporary reduced product availability. We are working hard to restock stores as quickly and safely as possible.

Empty spaces on supermarket shelves had begun to pop up more frequently since January as WA, along with the rest of Australia, experienced delays amid a global supply chain crisis triggered by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.

Cam Dumesny, CEO of WAs road transport peak body Western Roads, explained that these pandemic-driven disruptionsalong with a series of other factorshad coalesced into a complex series of shortages throughout the supply chain.

The first thing we felt was a disruption to our shipping and a major loss in international air freight, both inbound and outbound because we didnt have people flying in and out of the country, Dumesny told The Epoch Times.

Then we had the outbreak on the east coast with the high virus numbers, so they were having workforce shortages of around 30 and 40 percent on a daily basis. And then the truckies were caught up in the mix.

At the end of January, the crisis was exacerbated after a one-in-a-200 year flooding event severed an arterial rail line carrying food from South Australiaan event that created 18 separate breaks along the tracks and cut major roadways.

Flood waters are seen where the Sturt Highway has been cut off near Glendambo, South Australia on Feb. 3, 2022. (AAP Image/Pool, Kelly Barnes)

Dumesny said WA relied heavily on supply coming from the east coast, with the rail disruptions taking out a whopping 80 percent of land-based freight.

The rail line is estimated to be fixed in mid-February, with the WA transport minister announcing the state would in the meantime be implementing land bridgesa system of rail, road, and rail transport where trucks ferry goods between functioning parts of the rail line.

The WA government has also lifted the restriction on road trains to allow trucks to pull three trailers rather than just two, essentially increasing load by an additional 50 percent.

However, one truck driver by the name of Eddie claimed that the state governments border restrictions had left numerous truck drivers unable to perform interstate deliveries.

We cant send our trucks interstate to pick up containers and bring them back here, because once we cross back into WA we have to quarantine for 14 days, Eddie told 6PR.

The majority of the West Australian distribution fleet is currently stuck down without pay, he added. The state governments missing an action.

Ive been in this game 30 years now, never seen it like this.
OKLAHOMA CITY  Oklahomas state auditor and inspector on Tuesday said mismanagement by co-founders of Epic Charter Schools is the largest amount of reported abuse of taxpayer funds in the history of this state  and she has no idea why the attorney general has not brought criminal charges in the case.

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation confirmed to the Tulsa World on Tuesday afternoon that it has just completed its years-long investigation and turned it over to the Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office for review.

I am shocked this hasnt been prosecuted yet, State Auditor Cindy Byrd told lawmakers at a joint meeting of the Oklahoma House of Representatives common education committee and Appropriations and Budget education subcommittee. I do expect charges to be filed  or an explanation for why charges will not be filed.

Attorney General John OConnor, who was appointed to office in late July by Gov. Kevin Stitt, went on Tulsa radio station KRMG on Jan. 20 and said he was still waiting for the OSBIs report but expected an update within 10 days.

Asked Tuesday afternoon for a comment or status update, OConnors press secretary told the Tulsa World: We cannot comment on open investigations.

Amid these new questions about inaction by state law enforcement, federal authorities including the Internal Revenue Service are reportedly now zeroing in on financial irregularities alleged to have occurred at Epic Charter Schools during the decade it was managed by co-founders Ben Harris and David Chaney.

Byrd had been asked to present her offices forensic audit findings about Epic before the two House education committees.

Byrd, a Republican serving her first term in elected office, noted that she accepted no campaign funds from education political action committees and has nothing against charter schools, parent choice in education or even free market enterprise.

She likened charter schools like Epic, which she described as intentionally established for charter school management companies to milk for profits  as the Enron of public education.

Wow. It gets worse and worse, said Rep. Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, at the conclusion of Byrds presentation.

Two Oklahoma City men, Chaney and Harris, co-founded Epic One-on-One statewide virtual school and Epic Blended Learning Centers in Tulsa and Oklahoma counties, and then ran the Epic school system for a decade through their for-profit school management company called Epic Youth Services.

Combined, Epic Charter Schools was Oklahomas largest public school system in 2020-21, when the pandemic prompted its enrollment to surge to around 60,000 students.

Byrd said inaction by law enforcement and the lack of new legal safeguards by the Legislature allowed Chaney and Harris to siphon off tens of millions more in taxpayer dollars under false pretenses since her office first issued its findings on Oct. 1, 2020.

She said she had personally given documentation to the Attorney Generals Office that proved EYS submitted false invoices in order to justify much of the 10% cut of all state and federal funding it took from the schools.

That amounted to $68 million total since 2015.

When several lawmakers asked why no criminal prosecution has occurred in the case, Byrd said of the Attorney Generals Office: I just dont know where they are.

Byrd said all along, Epic Charter Schools was limited by state law to spending no more than 5% of its taxpayer dollars on administrative costs. And Chaney and Harris hired an entire administrative staff at the schools, at public expense, to do the work their for-profit management company invoiced the school for.

She said that is the very definition of embezzlement.

Byrds office is also still involved in a district court battle to obtain access to information about how at least $145 million in public money Epic allocated for its student Learning Fund, which EYS took into its private bank accounts and expended using personal credit cards, was spent between since 2015.

Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole, asked whether there was any way to freeze the accounts containing public school student funds.

Ive asked for that. This is students money, Byrd said, before referring to how long ago she reported on the matter in her offices official audit report. Ive been ringing this bell since Oct. 1, 2020.

Byrd looked over at Paul Campbell, the new chair of Epic Charter Schools governing board, who was seated nearby, and said he told her Epic was just informed by the IRS that it is now under federal audit.

If the IRS comes in, I believe they will find it as egregious as we do, said Byrd, adding that EYS has claimed in district court that the student Learning Fund became private money when it was transferred into private business accounts.

In late May, Epics governing board was overhauled and voted to cut all ties between the schools and Epic Youth Services.

EYS has since sued Epic for more money and Epic has countersued. That matter is still pending in district court.

Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa, asked how none of the Epic schools authorizers, nor the state Board of Education, law enforcement, or the Legislature has been able to put a stop to so much wrongdoing over the course of so many years.

Byrd said she believes it is worth noting that it took forensic auditors to suss out what annual financial statement audits required for all schools do not check for.

She said she is not aware of any forensic auditor on staff at the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, which had been investigating allegations of financial wrongdoing at Epic for six years. And charter school sponsors in the state, which received a total of $10 million last year, had not been using any public funds they receive to check for schools compliance with state and federal laws previously.

This was just a very complex scheme that was hidden, Byrd said.

Several lawmakers inquired what new policies or changes in state law could prevent such activity in the future.

Rep. Hilbert zeroed in on the question of how Epics managers could use personal credit cards for public school student expenditures.

If this is an air miles card, the owner of the card could fly free the rest of their lives, he said. Or if its a 2 percent cash back card, thats $20,000 for every $1 million spent.

Byrd responded that state law against such practices do not currently apply to school employees,  so that may be worth looking at.

Rep. Brad Boles, R-Marlow, and Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, asked whether Oklahomas laws could be improved to better prevent conflicts of interest and nepotism with school vendors, employees, and even governing board members.

It could always be made very clear, Byrd responded.
Students wearing face masks as they return to school at Fairvale High School in Sydney, Australia on Oct. 25, 2021. (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi)

Hundreds of West Australian Kids Sent Home From School After 3 COVID Cases Recorded

Positive COVID cases in three schools have forced hundreds of students and dozens of staff in Western Australia (WA) to self isolate for two weeksjust days within the start of the school year.

A Year 12 student at Harrisdale Senior High School, a Year 11 student at Corpus Christi College, and a teacher at Winterfold Primary School all returned a positive test result.

Only students and teachers deemed close contacts will be required to quarantine, which includes the entire Year 12 cohort of roughly 200 students at Harrisdale Senior High School.

It comes despite the WA government assuring schools would stay open as long as possible to ensure vital face-to-face learning, with each of the three schools recording just one case.

Read More Unvaccinated Lawyers Locked Out Of Courts, Unable to Fight Mandates in Western Australia

The directives form one of several precautions taken by the state government to suppress the spread of the milder Omicront variant, which included the abrupt backflip on reopening interstate borders from Feb. 5.

Extensive efforts have also been made to keep the virus out of schools, including by standing down unvaccinated education staff, mandating masks for all children, retrofitting public schools with 12,000 air purifiers, and maintaining a pool of over 5,000 casual staff ready to switch places with teachers that test positive.

But, in spite of the efforts, hundreds of students will still be left missing out on essential time in class, leaving parents worried about the quality of education their children will receiveparticularly for those in their final years before graduation.

Parents Left Worried

Alicia, a mother of three, said she was concerned for the fate of other children in the state, including her own two boys who had just settled into Years 10 and 11.

It really worries me  just the sheer disruption to the kids is really worrying, Alicia said.

She said that her kids, along with all other West Australian school students, were now again at risk of being stuck at home and outside the valuable classroom environment.

Some kids will sit at home and theyre only going to do half the amount of workthey need to be in a classroom environment, especially in Year 11 and 12, so they can question the teacher and they can be guided to think outside the box, she said.

Alicia pointed to her own children who, in part due to an awkward online system, had been less motivated to learn when forced to stay at home during the peak of the pandemic.

Students walk through Yagan Square in the central business district of Perth, Australia on Apr. 29, 2021. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

It was pretty shoddy. If you didnt want to sign in, you didnt really have to. You could also just sign in and be there without interacting. And because of the difficulty of doing it online, theres a lot less expected of the kids than there would be in the classroom.

Alicia was also concerned that the governments plan to swap out COVID-positive teachers with ones that were ready on standby would not be able to provide students with the necessary quality of education.

This is because her school, like many others, employs specialised teachers that are experts in guiding students through subjects, whether it be mathematics and physics, or English and economics.

You might get any teacher that comes in. If the curriculum isnt laid out or if the kids have got a question, theyre essentially babysitting a Year 11 or 12 class, Alicia said.

WA Government Remains Firm

Some West Australians have grown frustrated at the governments continued restrictions whilst other states open up and learn to manage to live with the virus.

Calls have been made to bring forward the isolation rules outlined in the WA governments high caseload plan, which would halve the quarantine period from 14 to seven days.

But WA Premier Mark McGowan said he would not budge out of fear it would lead to a ballooning of case numbers in the state. As of Feb. 3, the state recorded 192 active cases.

If you go to seven days quarantine that will mean faster spread of the virus and that will mean more people will become sick, McGowan told 6PRs Perth LIVE.

Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan during a press conference in Perth, Australia on Feb 4, 2021.(Matt Jelonek/Getty Images)

McGowan pointed to other parts of the country that he said were worse off as a result of looser measuressuch as Queensland, a state with more than 8,600 active cases whose students are all required to learn from home.

Our situation is lightyears better. But this is the experience, were going to go through more cases, more isolating, more quarantining, and all of that sort of thing as COVID spreads within our community.

McGowan has also been criticised for maintaining interstate border restrictions given promises to open up, with accusations the state failed to fix a severely strained health system despite having two years to do so since the beginning of the pandemic.
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A trio of allegedly self-taught dentists have been arrested for practicing dentistry without a license at their filthy office in Houston, Texas.

Byron Alberto Zelaya, 58, his son Bryant Jesus Zelaya, 31, and nephew Omar Navarrete-Sevilla, 29, were arrested by the Houston Police Major Offenders Division on Monday.

According to court documents, police had been tipped off by one of Alberto Zelaya's customers, who paid $2,000 for a cleaning and brackets in October in order to get braces, but was alarmed by the lack of licenses and diplomas at the practice, as well as the unsanitary conditions.

The office, which housed a single dentist's chair in an unfinished room, had no obvious sterilization equipment, had boxes of mouth moldings scattered across the back office and dentistry tools sprawled around on shelves and desks, according to an ABC 13 tour of the suite.

Images of the back office showed metal cans, water bottles and wires littering the office besides dentistry tools and mouth moldings made for patients.

The rooms at the practice were mostly unfinished with sloppy paintjobs and were also filled with garbage.

Byron Alberto Zelaya, 58, (left) and his son Bryant Jesus Zelaya, 31, were arrested for practicing dentistry without a license

Zelaya's nephew Omar Navarrete-Sevilla, 29 , who made the mouth molds, was also taken into custody

The family conducted their work inside a filthy office in Houston, Texas. Police said they had not injured a patient

Their office was in shambles with tools and equipment scattered all over the place and lacking any form of sterilization

The fake practice had only a single dentist's chair with no sign of sterilization equipment anywhere for their patients

Alberto Zelaya told police that he was self-taught and had been working at the Houston office for about a year, according to court documents. He added that he had a previous job in a dental lab.

Alberto Zelaya and his son were charged with felony unlawful practice of dentistry while Navarrete-Sevilla, who made the mouth molds and worked with tools was charged the same but at a misdemeanor level.

Since their arrests, the family have bonded out of jail, with the father posting $10,000 bail on Tuesday.

The Houston Police Department said there was no evidence that the men had hurt any of their patients or botched an operation, and that it was not uncommon for people to run these types of illegal practices to collect cash.

There were boxes of mouth moldings scattered throughout the back office. Navarrete-Sevilla, who was charged with a misdemeanor, was in charge of crafting the molds

Police were tipped off to the fraudsters by one of their customers, who was alarmed by the state of the office

Houston dentist Dr. Thomas O'Brien said it was dangerous and even life-threatening to get dental procedures done by unlicensed individuals. Police said it was not uncommon for these types of illegal clinics to exist

Houston dentist Dr. Thomas O'Brien told ABC13 that it's dangerous to have any kind of dental procedure done by unlicensed fraudsters who lack the proper training.

'The results could be life-threatening,' O'Brien said. 'You can end up with a mouth deformity of sorts. Teeth don't grow back. If you fracture someone's tooth, it's got to come out.

'Not only can it kill you, but it can also alter your lifestyle. Proper sterilization of equipment is critical, and I would bet money they're not properly sterilizing instruments.'

O'Brien said he doubted the trio had been properly sterilizing their equipment, which was scattered on shelves and desks
Boris Johnson managed a fleeting smile when he was served a chicken kiev meal during his whirlwind trip to Ukraine on Tuesday.

The weak joke amused him briefly, but was not enough to lift his morose mood.

One source said the PM was 'as downbeat as I've seen him' as he contemplated the huge task of trying to rescue his premiership from the political rubble. 'He's knackered too,' the source said. 'But he just can't catch a break...' If it was bad then, it looked worse last night.

Long time ally: Munira Mirza pictured with Boris Johnson, then London Mayor, in 2008

The drip-drip of disaffected Tory MPs had slowed after three declared they were submitting letters of no confidence on Wednesday.

But the PM was rocked by the dramatic resignation of his long-serving policy chief Munira Mirza, one of the last aides remaining from his days as London mayor at City Hall.

In an extraordinary resignation letter, Miss Mirza said she had demanded Mr Johnson make a public apology over comments he made regarding the failure of the Crown Prosecution Service to press charges against Jimmy Savile during Sir Keir Starmer's time in charge.

The remarks, made to Sir Keir during angry Commons exchanges this week, have also faced noisy criticism from moderate Tory MPs already wobbly about the PM's future. Mr Johnson yesterday insisted he had not been referring to Sir Keir's 'personal record'. But Miss Mirza, who is not known as a shrinking violet, told him he had 'let yourself down by making a scurrilous accusation'.

Clash: Carrie Johnson (pictured with Boris at Twickenham in 2020) confronted Munira Mirza

In a calculated barb, Chancellor Rishi Sunak also distanced himself from the jibe about the Labour leader, telling reporters at a dramatic Downing Street press conference: 'Being honest, I wouldn't have said it.'

Not everyone in Westminster is convinced by the sudden concern for Sir Keir's feelings among senior Tories.

A friend of Miss Mirza said last night: 'I think it was the final straw  there had been a lot of other straws along the way.' Some in No 10 detect the hand of Mr Sunak, noting that he is a close friend of Miss Mirza's husband Dougie Smith, another senior adviser to the PM.

One source said Mr Johnson's wife Carrie was overheard having a 'stand-up row' with Miss Mirza after she dropped her bombshell yesterday, feeling it was a gross betrayal.

Rishi Sunak used a live televised press conference tonight to criticise the Prime Minister for his desperate jibe at Sir Keir Starmer about the CPS's failure to prosecute Jimmy Savile in 2009

A spokesman for Mrs Johnson denied the claim, saying she 'had not spoken to her at all' yesterday.

Whatever the reason, her departure  and the Chancellor's decision to distance himself publicly from the PM while standing at a lectern in Downing Street  sparked panic in No 10.

A planned clear-out of senior advisers in the wake of the Partygate row was rushed forward in a bid to demonstrate the Mr Johnson is still in control of affairs and is serious about reform.

One source said: 'He knows we've got to change and address people's concerns. That means some very tough decisions.'

Just after 6pm, it was revealed that Jack Doyle, No 10's director of communications, was quitting after two years at the heart of Government.

Less than two hours later, No 10 confirmed that the Prime Minister's most senior aides, chief of staff Dan Rosenfield and private secretary Martin Reynolds, were also on the way out.

All three had been tipped for departure following the withering criticism of leadership structures in No 10 by Whitehall ethics chief Sue Gray in her report on Partygate.

Another former senior aide, Nikki da Costa, said last night that the clear-out appeared to have been 'brought forward to distract from Munira's principled resignation' and was designed to 'get the pain out of the way in one go'.

But, with No 10 now fearing that a vote of no confidence in the PM is all but inevitable in the coming weeks, there may be a lot more pain to come.
OPECs second-largest producer, Iraq, is one of the OPEC+ members struggling to boost its oil production as much as its quota in the pact allows, with January output 120,000 barrels per day (bpd) lower than its production ceiling, according to data from state marketing firm SOMO seen by Reuters.

The figures from SOMO showed that instead of rising, oil production in Iraq dropped in January by 63,000 bpd from December. This was due to insufficient storage capacity, an oil official in Iraq told Reuters.

Exports from the second-largest OPEC producer after Saudi Arabia declined in January because of bad weather, maintenance of export terminals, and technical issues, the official said.

Unplanned outages and a lack of capacity to pump more led to lower or stagnant production in January at OPEC members Iraq, Iran, Angola, Congo, and Libya, a Reuters survey showed earlier this week.

Iraq and several other producers in OPEC and OPEC+ are not pumping as much as the OPEC+ pact calls for, essentially tightening the market and distorting analyst assumptions about market balances.

For half a year now, OPEC+ has actually added lower volumes to the market each month than the 400,000 bpd nominal monthly increase announced in each of the OPEC+ meeting since August 2021.

At its latest monthly meeting on Wednesday, the OPEC+ group announced another 400,000 bpd increase in production for March.

While the nominal increase is modest, as in the previous seven months, many producers within the OPEC+ group are struggling to pump to their quotas, leaving an increasingly large gap between production increase on paper and actual growth in output, which leaves the market tighter than many analysts and forecasters had anticipated just a few months ago.

Going forward, the market will be closely looking at how much of that increase OPEC+ can actually deliver, considering that half of its members have lagged in ramping up output to their quotas so far, while more producerswith few exceptions such as Saudi Arabia and the UAEwill be struggling to raise production.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
02.02.2022 LISTEN

A senior communication team member of the ruling New Patriotic Party in the Ashanti region, Mr George Adjei has called on all grassroots members of the NPP to take Stephen Ayesu Ntim's campaign bid for the National Chairmanship position as communal labour.

Speaking on Ultimate FM in the Ashanti regional capital of Kumasi, the communicator said Mr Stephen Ayesu Ntim brings onboard a track record of enormous experience having served as a former 1st Vice National Chairman in which he executed it perfectly.

According to him, Mr. Ntim's contributions to the party are unmatched and he stands very tall in the Chairmanship contest this time around.

He further added, even though the party has not been fair with him, Stephen Ayesu Ntim has never relented on working for the party in numerous capacities and supporting with his logistics and resources.

"Stephen Ayesu Ntim's signature can be seen in all the 275 Constituencies across the country with the Freely Supplying of Letterheads, Complimentary cards to all constituency officers, Doing of NHIS cards for constituency executives, Donation of 14 pick up for the party, et al are a few of the National Chairman hopeful contributions to the party."

He continued, "Again, Chairman Ntim has shown to every grassroots member that, he is very accessible to every party member and doesn't discriminate in answering calls or responding to social media messages. The only man who doesn't wait for elections before doing good for the party and party members is being experienced.

"He understands the grassroots plight and ways of overcoming these challenges which are facing the grassroots members of the party. Among all the will-be aspirants for the National chairmanship, he stands tall and he can lead our cherished NPP to break the Eight-year political power between NPP and NDC."

Mr George concluded that many people including him would have stopped resourcing the party but Stephen Ntim's persistence, consistency, loyalty and determination is worth emulating. "It's would be in the interest of grassroots members of our party to support Chairman Stephen Ayesu Ntim."
The Liberals Internet Censorship Bill Is Back, and Its More Worrisome Than Ever

Commentary

So far, no one has offered a better description of the federal governments efforts to control the internet than Charlie Angus.

Calling last fall for regulation that addressed the use of algorithms by social media platforms such as Facebook, the veteran NDP MP called Bill C-10 a political dumpster fire that gave an ill-equipped Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) authority over the entire global internet.

The Trudeau government first introduced Bill C-10 in November of 2020. It trudged through the Parliamentary process until last spring when people realized the appalling impact it had on free speech. At the time, I described it in an interview with National Post reporter Anja Karadeglija as legislation that doesnt just infringe on free expression, it constitutes a full-blown assault upon it and, through it, the foundations of democracy. Civil liberties experts agreed.

Steven Guilbeault, then Heritage Minister, appeared not to fully understand the file but nevertheless attempted to reassure Canadians that their freedom was not at risk and that his goal was just to get money from web giants to fund CRTC- and government-approved Canadian content.

His lack of persuasion was best illustrated by the comments of New Brunswick Senator David Richards (a Trudeau appointee).

I dont think this bill needs amendments. I think, however, it needs a stake through the heart, said Richards, who is a Giller Prize-winning author. I will always and forever stand against any bill that subjects freedom of expression to the doldrums of government oversight.

Richards was joined by other senatorsnotably Pamela Wallin and Paula Simonsin expressing serious concerns about C-10. Meanwhile, when the 2021 election was called, the legislation died on the order paper.

But now, its back.

Three important things have changed. One is that the Department of Heritage is now led by Minister Pablo Rodriguez. Another is that the updated version attempts to direct the CRTC to focus on what is vaguely described as professional content. Third, is that Bill C-10 is now called Bill C-11.

What hasnt changed is the vast powers it grants to the CRTC, the extent to which its fuzzy definitions are left up to the regulator, the threat it poses to free speech, the possibility of violating trade agreements, and the devastating impact it will quickly have on the 100,000 Canadians creating and making a living from content on vehicles such as YouTube.

The government, however, is more interested in its own fortunes than those of Canadas YouTubers and TikTokers.

Bill C-11 exists to please the certified/approved Canadian content industry that has evolved over the past 40 years through a series of government-controlled funds. Particularly influential in Montreal, that group has resisted adaptation to the internet and lobbied for more than 20 years for the internet to be treated as the new cable. Which, as anyone at all familiar with the 21st century knows, it is not.

Never mind that over the past decade the advent of online streaming has created the greatest period of prosperity in the history of the Canadian film and television industry. In terms of jobs and investment, life has never been better.

But those firmly vested in the CRTC system setup based on cable television find this level of change alarming. Having failed for more than two decades to convince a series of ministersincluding Melanie Jolyand the CRTC that the internet should be regulated to ensure their entitlement, they finally found a willing dance partner in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Cabinet ministers may be responsible for delivering legislation but all reports indicate the political staff in the Prime Ministers Office make all the decisions. Bill C-10 is not aimed therefore at creating good public policy; its goal is to satisfy a lobby group believed capable of assuring political advantage in Quebec, where cultural protectionism has been a priority for 250 years.

The outcome is legislation that essentially tries to take the global internet of 2022, rope it, hog-tie it, and stuff it into a regulatory barn built for 1985.

Six years in, there is no evidence this government has any interest in developing a serious internet policy regarding how Canada can use this amazing technological development to its global advantage. Nor has it elevated the urgency of access to affordable high-speed internet or the need to address the outrageously high cost of mobile devices in this country.

Instead, for cheap partisan political advantage, it is prepared to crush the entrepreneurship of tens of thousands of Canadian creators, grant sovereignty over the infinity of the internet to an unqualified and non-transparent regulatory body, and control how citizens may use it and express themselves through it.

Editors note: A previous version of this article misspelled the name of Sen. Paula Simons. The Epoch Times regrets the error.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
PASCAGOULA, Miss. (Tribune News Service)  Ingalls Shipbuildings latest amphibious transport dock ship, USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28), has successfully completed acceptance trials, with the ship being put through a series of tests over several days as the U.S. Navys Board of Inspection and Survey looked on.

Ingalls will now go to work putting the finishing touches on the San Antonio-class ship in anticipation of a spring delivery.

Fort Lauderdale is a terrific example of what our collective team is accomplishing together, said Ingalls president Kari Wilkinson. LPD 28 demonstrates what Navy-industry collaboration can do to evolve a ship design to new requirements while maintaining the talented team that is demonstrating such efficiency and predictability in delivering on commitments. I couldnt be more proud of their success.

The Ingalls test and trials team put LPD 28 through its paces, with testing that included anchor handling, ballast/de-ballast, detect-to-engage and running the ship at full power and steering.

It takes a lot of hard work from the entire shipbuilding team to make these sea trials successful, said Mike Pruitt, Ingalls LPD ship program manager. Fort Lauderdale is exhibit A of HIIs commitment to quality and meets our high standard for every ship that we build.

Ingalls has delivered 11 San Antonio-class ships to the U.S. Navy, with three more under construction including Fort Lauderdale, Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29), and Harrisburg (LPD 30). Additionally, fabrication of the 15th San Antonio-class ship, Pittsburgh (LPD 31), will begin this spring.

Fort Lauderdale is named in honor of the Florida city and its long history with the U.S. military, including the Seminole Wars and Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale, which trained thousands of pilots beginning with World War II, including former U.S. President George H.W. Bush.

Construction on LPD 28 began in December 2016, and she was launched in March 2020. Fort Lauderdale was christened in August of last year.

2022 Advance Local Media LLC.

Visit gulflive.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Active digital preservation software Preservica has signed a multi-year contract with Libraries Tasmania to accept, preserve, and store digital government and non-government record as archives.

The Tasmanian Archives holds hundreds of thousands of items of significant historical and cultural value, in various formats, that are actively degrading. These contain content integral to Tasmanian history and must adhere to industry standards and compliance requirements to support business processes for the secure capture, storage, management, identification, access, delivery and long-term preservation of its digital collections.

Managing manually 150TB worth of digital collection has been difficult for the library. It puts the risk of not meeting required standards to ensure ongoing preservation and accessibility of its digital cultural collections.

This is where Preservica comes into the picture: Its digital preservation and discovery solution, Starter edition, is providing multi-sized archives across the region with an easy, locally hosted way to preserve important records and showcase digital collections that document Australia's rich history, ensuring content is kept safe and usable over decades are all automatically taken care of.

"Our commitment is to preserve the continuing memory of Tasmania as the lead provider of history, research, and information services," says Libraries Tasmania Department of Education manager government archives and preservation Allegra Huxtable.

"We are thrilled to partner with Preservica to preserve archives and heritage items to fulfil our legislated role as the keeper of Tasmania's memory, and generate opportunities for lifelong learning, and cultural inspiration available to anyone around the world."

"Preservica's preservation system is a key part of the total environment needed to provide their digital collections with the best chance of long-term survival, says Preservica CEO Mike Quinn.

The digital preservation system will support the receipt of transfers from Tasmanian state government agencies and non-government organisations of digital records in all forms: digitised versions of hardcopy records as well as unstructured and structured born-digital records.

This also includes published digital assets acquired through legal deposit or purchase (where these items are not suitable for inclusion on the National E-Deposit System).

Public access to the Tasmanian archives covers government records, private records, and cultural heritage items in a large number of formats including hard copy documentary items, physical items and their digital surrogates (digitised versions), audio recordings (including analog and born-digital), Film and Video (including analogue and born-digital), maps, newspapers, and photographs.

Online access to digital materials is for Australian government, academic, cultural and commercial organisations.

Libraries Tasmania is part of a growing community of institutions using Preservica in the region including The National Archives of Australia (NAA), The National Library of Australia (NLA), the State Library of South Australia (SLSA), Moore College and many other government, cultural, and academic institutions.

Preservica worked with local partner Document Management Tasmania (DMTAS) on the formal tender and procurement process. The digital preservation service will be hosted on AWS Asia Pacific (Sydney) region.
A Georgia man who shot his then-wife seven times after she asked him for a divorce in 2018 was sentenced to 65 years in prison this week - and still refuses to apologize after nearly killing her in cold blood.

On Tuesday, Ronald Richard Goss, 57, pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of his now ex-wife, Tina Davis, according to WMAZ.

Goss shot his then-estranged wife seven times on February 11, 2018 after she said their marriage was beyond repair.

'If he could not have her, no one could,' the Cherokee County District Attorney's Office quoted Goss as saying right before shooting Davis.

'He did everything in his power to kill Tina Davis. It is only by the grace of God that she is still here with us,' Cherokee County District Attorney Shannon Wallace said in her statement.

Pictured: the mugshot of Ronald Richard Goss, 57, who was arrested in 2018 after shooting his wife seven times when she told him she wanted a divorce

Goss' then-estranged wife, Tina Davis seen above after being hospitalized for with gunshot wounds. Her then-husband shot her when she said their marriage as irreparable

An X-ray of Davis' shooting wounds. Her injuries 'caused internal injuries as well as a spinal injury that left her with no feeling from the waist down' according to authorities

'While his plan to kill Tina was unsuccessful, in less than five minutes, Mr. Goss ended Tina's life as she once had known it,' Wallace added.

'In the four years since Tina was ambushed in her home, she has endured a tremendous amount of physical and mental suffering, and I am in complete awe of Tina's strength and determination to regain what this defendant took from her. Hopefully, the resolution in this case will provide her and her family comfort and closure.'

On the day before the shooting, Goss reportedly showed up unannounced to Davis' home to ask whether or not their marriage could be reconciled.

That's when Davis told him she wanted to go through with a divorce.

A day later, he returned to the house around 5 a.m. in Ball Ground, Georgia, knowing his wife of nearly 10 years would awake.

Davis shooting injury on her left shoulder, pictured. She was also shot in the head, chest, left forearm, left thumb, and right hip

Four years after the shooting, Davis, pictured, is now able to walk on her own again after over 450 hours of physical therapy and rehabilitation

Goss cut off power to the home. He entered through the garage then shot open a door to gain access to the home.

After entering the home, he attacked Davis in the master bathroom, shooting her in the head, chest, left forearm, left thumb, left shoulder and right hip, 'causing internal injuries as well as a spinal injury that left her with no feeling from the waist down.'

Goss' mugshot shows him with a massive scar along his forehead and his eye swollen shut, which the DA's office attributed to 'a bullet ricocheting and striking Goss in the face.'

Davis, an avid runner, required 'more than 15 grueling surgeries and dental procedures to help correct the damage Goss caused.'

Four years after the shooting, she is now able to walk on her own again after over 450 hours of physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Davis, pictured, an avid runner, required 'more than 15 grueling surgeries and dental procedures to help correct the damage Goss caused'

The DA's office shared a photo of Davis, standing on her own with her two sons at Christmas time

Her goal to one day run again despite her injuries, according to the DA's office.

'(He robbed me of) the best years of my life,' Davis said in a victim impact statement.

'What hurts most are the things he took from my future. I would have been a go-to babysitter for my grandkids. I would have been the fun Nana. These should be the best years of my life. I should be checking off my bucket list,' she said.

'But thanks to him, I spend my days in therapy just to regain a portion of what he took. I may not have died that day, but he took my life just as if I had.'

In addition to the attempted murder charge, Goss also pleaded guilty to home invasion, attempted arson, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and nine counts of family violence aggravated battery.
Editors note: Information is provided by the Cowlitz County Corrections Department and local law enforcement agencies. Each individual named in this report is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Stolen vehicle  Longview officers Wednesday arrested Russell Benjamin Downs, 36, of Monroe, Washington, on suspicion of possession of a stolen vehicle.

Sex offender  Cowlitz County deputies Wednesday arrested James Lee Grasser, 46, of an unknown location, on suspicion of failure to register as a sex offender after two prior convictions of failing to register.

Burglary  Cowlitz County deputies Wednesday arrested Terry Ostertag, 60, of Ariel, on suspicion of residential burglary.

Assaults

800 block of Commercial Avenue, Longview. Wednesday. Report of known suspect reaching into a vehicle and grabbing a mans hair and ear.

1400 block of Alabama Street, Longview. Wednesday. Report of two people hitting a woman with the butt of a BB gun.

Burglaries

800 block of Grade Street, Kelso. Wednesday. Report of fence cut and items taken from the yard of a business.

2500 block of 30th Avenue, Longview. Wednesday. Report of two men and two women looking around a home that recently caught fire.

1100 block of 23rd Avenue, Longview. Wednesday. Report of a broken window on the door of a home and items including a 14-karat white gold wedding band, 14-karat white gold wedding ring solitaire, gold hoop earrings and an Apple iPad missing.

3300 Olive Way, Longview. Wednesday. A homeowner reported watching a man through his Ring camera app try to break into his residence while the homeowner was out of town. The homeowner said he could see a white man with a ponytail in a white Chevrolet Astro van without windows on the drivers side.

Stolen vehicles

1000 block of Douglas Street, Longview. Wednesday. White 2001 Chrysler Sebring LXi two-door coup. Washington CAC6810.

300 block of 16th Avenue, Longview. Wednesday. A woman reported finding her black Bronco with Oregon plates with someone sleeping in the front seat.

Thefts

1500 block of Mount Brynion Road, Kelso. Wednesday. Report of a man rifling through the reporting partys mailbox.

1000 block of 13th Avenue, Kelso. Wednesday. Report of attempted ATM break in.

1300 block of 21st Avenue, Longview. Wednesday. Report of previously reported slide-out tray from vehicle found for sale on Facebook.

300 block of Hollyberry Street, Woodland. Wednesday. Mail.

Vandalism/malicious mischief

300 block of Three Rivers Drive, Kelso. Wednesday.

1500 block of 21st Avenue, Longview. Wednesday.

900 block of Commerce Avenue, Longview. Wednesday. Report of damage to night drop box.

Vehicle prowls

3000 block of Louisiana Street, Longview. Wednesday. Report of a man trying to enter a vehicle in a garage.

1000 block of Dale Street, Woodland. Wednesday. Report of vehicle registration taken from glove box.
Covid Rates California Department of Public Health (CDPH) View Photo

Tuolumne County Public Health reports the death of a woman in her 80s due to Covid-19. There have been 163 deaths since January 2020, 15 of those deaths were reported since the first report of 2022 on January 3rd.

There are 79 new Covid-19 positive community cases, active community cases increased 44 to 541 including 20 people who are hospitalized. There are 17 new inmate cases since Tuesday. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) reports 478 active inmate cases down from 501 Tuesday. The Sierra Conservation Center, for the third day, has the most Covid cases out of all the prisons in California. There have been 2,212 inmate cases, the prisons inmate population is 3,046.

The newly reported community cases include 14 cases age 17 or younger and 18 cases age 60 or older. The new Covid cases by gender and age: nine girls and one boy age 11 or younger, three girls and one boy age 12 to 17, four women and eleven men age 18 to 29, six women and nine men in their 30s, one woman and eight men in their 40s, one woman and seven men in their 50s, eight women and six men in their 60s, three men in their 70s, and one man age 90 or older.

Adventist Health Sonora is hosting a COVID-19 Pfizer vaccination clinic for children ages 5-11 only, happening this Friday, Feb. 4 from 3-6 p.m. at the hospital. They note to enter the hospital through the associate entrance off of Guzzi Lane and follow signs for the vaccination clinic.

The total current case rate, a 14-day average for Tuolumne County decreased to 128.4 from 134.7 per 100,000 population. The case rate reached a low of 15.1 on December 17th. A total of 33 were released from isolation in all 9,115 have been released from isolation and 61% of the population eligible to get vaccinated has been vaccinated.

The state reports the 14-day average for Covid-19 hospitalized patients decreased to 20. The state reports one ICU bed available in Tuolumne County out of six. Vaccination details per case are no longer reported, the state vaccination trends are here.

If you receive a positive test result, you will likely receive a text from a Virtual Agent to make contact and provide some information on what to do next. You can help slow the spread of COVID-19 by responding to texts, calls, or emails, and self-isolating when you have symptoms or a positive test result. Also, notify any close contacts youve had from 2 days before you became ill or got tested. Any close contacts should follow current quarantine guidance and get tested 3-5 days after exposure. If you are at high risk of severe disease or hospitalization, you can contact your doctor to discuss potential treatment options. If you are not symptomatic, have not tested positive for COVID-19 recently, and are not in quarantine, get vaccinated or boosted.

Calaveras County Public Health reports 117 new cases since Tuesday, February 1. There are seven more active cases for a total of 117 active cases including five Covid hospitalizations. Calaveras reports positive cases age 17 and under number 1,300 or more, and cases age 65 and older are 1,100 or more. Specific numbers are no longer provided. There are 110 more counted as recovered for a total of 6,394 and 56.55% of the eligible population is fully vaccinated in the county. According to the state, Calaveras 14-day average for Covid hospitalizations remains at five and there are four ICU beds available.

COVID-19 Testing Free tests can be ordered at covidtests.gov or at usps.com/covidtest. The first tests will ship by the end of January. Tests will typically ship within 7-12 days of ordering through the U.S. Postal Service. USPS reports shipping times of 1-3 days for its first-class package service in the continental United States. The White House emphasized that the website is in beta testing when it made tests available for ordering for the first time today.

Public health recommends scheduling an appointment to get tested 5 days after possible exposure and if you are having any symptoms, to get tested right away. The Tuolumne County State testing site schedule is 7 days a week from 7 AM to 7 PM at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds and will be open on the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, Monday, January 17th. Appointments can be made at www.lhi.care/covidtesting or by calling 888-634-1123. Testing is also available at pharmacies, at Rapid Care, and the hospital emergency department if you are experiencing any symptoms, or contact your healthcare provider. More details are here.

COVID-19 Vaccine The United States Food and Drug Administration has given full approval for the use of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine for individuals 18 years of age and older. FDA approval information can be viewed here: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-takes-key-action-approving-second-covid-19-vaccine and a statement from the California Department of Public Health can be viewed here: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/NR22-023.aspx

The CDC recommends people receive a booster shot if they completed a Pfizer series at least five months ago, or the Moderna series at least six months ago, or a J&J vaccine at least two months ago. Vaccine appointments for children ages 5 to 11 can also be made through myturn.ca.gov, or by calling 833-422-4255, or through local pharmacies, more details are here. For ways to manage a fear of needles or a phobia and help others with it, view the CDCs information guide here. Learn more about self-care strategies by visiting namica.org

County

Date

New

Active (Hospital)

Total 2022 All Cases (All Deaths) Amador 1/31 242 425 (16) 1,273 5,439

(64) Calaveras 2/2 117 117 (5) 1,977 6,612

(101) Mariposa 2/2 26 76 (16) 837 2,704

(20) Mono 2/2 0 N/A 914 2,889

(8) Stanislaus 2/2 1,016 9,925 (239) 28,407 112,781

(1,544) Tuolumne 2/2 96 541 (20) 4,036 12,031 (163) Reported cases at end of 2021 and 2020
U.S. special forces blew up a military helicopter after a raid in Syria that resulted in the death of ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, claiming it had 'mechanical issues' and was no longer operational.

American officials deny it crashed or was shot down.

Footage shows the helicopter - believed to be an MH60 Black Hawk - as a shell of itself with only the framework of the chopper visible.

Some reports say the chopper, which carried U.S. special forces to the operation site, was destroyed by a combination of demolition charges and munitions launched from an F-16 fighter jet.

American officials declined to offer details about the helicopter when pressed about it but did say the crew was safe.

The situation brough comparisions to the May 2, 2011 raid in Abbottabad, Pakistan, that resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden.

Navy Seals took two modified Black Hawk helicopters into Pakistan from Afghanistan. As the choppers approached the compound where bin Laden was living one of them experienced a hazardous airflow condition known as a vortex ring state.

That caused the helicopter to loose its lift. Its tail scrapped the high wall of the compound - damaging its rotor - and it crash landed into the courtyard. Seals blew it up at the end of the raid and left its shell at the site, a visible testament to their presence there.

U.S. special forces blew up a military helicopter after a raid in Syria that resulted in the death of the leader of the ISIS terrorist group

The situation brough comparisions to the May 2, 2011 raid in Abbottabad, Pakistan, that resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden (above) where Navy Seals had to destroy a crashed helicopter

But senior administration officials said of Thursday's raid that, while one of the helicopters was damaged, it was able to take off and land at another location.

There it was deemed unusable and destroyed.

'It was determined that further use of the helicopter was not practical, and in fact could be dangerous,' Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said at his briefing Thursday.

Officials said it suffered from a 'mechanical issue.' They denied reports it had crash landed or was disabled by ISIS forces.

Kirby said the helicopter suffered from a 'drive train issue that rendered it not usable for future flight in the operation.'

He said the helicopter crew were fine and safe.

A senior administration official, in a briefing call with reporters on Thursday, said the chopper was flown away from the site of the raid to be disposed.

'There was a situation in which one of our helicopters had a mechanical issue and so it was properly disposed at some distance from the site. It had nothing to do with any kind of hostile action,' the official said.

But the official confirmed that some of the terrorists engaged with one of the helicopters and U.S. forces killed them, saying at least two terrorists died.

However, they argued, that had nothing to do with the helicopter being destroyed.

'Ultimately the helicopter was able to extract itself from the immediate target area, and, under control, was able to land in another location where the decision was made to disable it and destroy it,' the official said.

Thursday's raid began shortly after midnight local time, when American helicopters brought U.S. special forces into position surrounding a house in Atmeh, a town close to the border with Turkey in rebel-held Idlib Province of Syria, The New York Times reported, citing eyewitnesses, social media reports and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a conflict monitor based in Britain.

U.S. Special Forces killed ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi (left) in a raid in Syria Thursday; Navy Seals killed al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden (right) in a May 2, 2011 raid in Abbottabad, Pakistan

The remains of U.S. military helicopter - believed to be a MH60 Black Hawk - after the mission in Syria

The helicopter was used in the raid on the ISIS leader

American helicopters carrying 24 commandoes arrived just after 1am. When they left two hours later ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi was dead

A long, tense standoff ensued, with loudspeakers blaring warnings in Arabic for everyone in the house to surrender, neighbors said. After about two hours, the house's occupants had not emerged and a major battle erupted, with heavy machine gun fire.

At the start of the raid, al-Qurayshi set off a bomb that killed himself as well as his wife and two children, an act President Joe Biden called cowardly.

'As a final act of desperate cowardness, [al-Qurayshi] with no regard to the lives of his own family or others in the building, he chose to blow himself up,' Biden said, adding the ISIS leader blew up 'that third floor rather than face justice for the crimes he has committed, taking several members of his family with him.'

'This horrible terrorist leader is no more,' he added.

Thirteen were reported killed in the raid, including six children and four women during the mission, which involved 24 Special Operations commandos backed by attack jets, Reaper drones and helicopter gunships.

The three-story house was left with its top floor shattered in the wake of al-Qurayshi's suicide bomb.

It was a gruesome scene, according to local reports, with blood splattered on the white bricks that constructed the home and body parts scattered around the area.

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, also known as Abdullah Qardash or Hajji Abdullah, became the leader of the ISIS terrorist organization after former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi also blew himself up in a similar raid by U.S. forces in 2019 in the nearby town of Barisha.

Thursday's operation is thought to be the largest U.S.-led raid in the Idlib region since the 2019 assault which killed al-Baghdadi.
A Florida man and woman have been arrested in connection with the murder of a man who was shot and killed during a carjacking at a CVS parking lot.

Suspects Javonne Marece White, 19, and Jasmine Yvonne Munro, 25, are facing charges for felony first-degree murder and carjacking for the brutal slaying of Uken Lloyd Cummings, 78, on Sunday afternoon.

Cummings was returning to his car in the pharmacy's lot on Silver Star Road in Orlando when police said he was attacked by White and Munro.

The pair are accused of shooting Cummings before stealing his keys and leaving in his Mercedes - backing up into him and then running him over again as they fled.

Deputies with the Orange County Sheriff's Office received a call about the shooting around 3.25pm and found Cummings with the gunshot wound.

He was later transported to the hospital where he died from his injuries.

Both White and Munro were arrested on Thursday after being identified via the pharmacy's surveillance footage. They are being held without bond at Orange County Jail.

Another suspect involved in the case has yet to be caught or identified.

Javonne Marece White, 19, and Jasmine Yvonne Munro, 25, are facing felony first-degree murder and carjacking charges after they allegedly shot and killed Uken Lloyd Cummings, 78, on Sunday afternoon in Orlando

Cummings was pronounced dead at a local hospital after the pair allegedly shot him and then stole the keys to his Mercedes and ran him over twice

Munro was identified as a suspect after investigators reviewed surveillance footage which saw her arrested and charged on Thursday

White was also taken into custody as the pair are being held at Orange County Jail on no bond

'He was a hard-working man, he was retired,' Cummings' son, who did not want to be identified, told WESH Orlando. 'He was a father, a brother, a grandfather. He didn't deserve this at all.'

'We're people who don't bother anybody, I don't understand how any of this happened.'

'It's bad, man, and I know for people, the elderly like that, it makes them not want to come out at all, and that's no way to live. It's senseless.'

Cummings had moved to Florida in 2003 after retiring from his position as a security guard with the New York City Hospital Police where he worked for 40 years.

He was survived by four grandchildren and 10 grandchildren. He was married 54 years before his wife died a few months ago.

The pair had allegedly attacked Cummings at a CVS parking lot on Silver Star Road in Orlando

Deputies with the Orange County Sheriff's Office arrived at the scene and transported Cummings to a local hospital

The victim's daughter also spoke out after witnessing the loss of both their parents within a year of each other.

'Its just shocking for all us to know that our father will never return home again,' she told Click Orlando. 'He didnt deserve this and I want the killer to be caught and justice to be served.'

'Its hard. Its hard. Were still mourning over the loss of our mother.'

Sheriff John Mina with the department called the suspects 'heartless murderers' earlier this week and offered a $10,000 reward for anyone with more information.

'To the murderers who senselessly ripped this man away from their family, were coming for you,' he said.

Sheriff John Mira called the pair 'heartless murderers' and said that the department was coming to find them earlier in the week
Maricopa County Sheriffs Office

An Arizona grandmother whose family says has been causing chaos and mayhem for years, is facing first-degree murder charges over the death of her 11-year-old grandson in a bathtub last Sunday.

Stephanie Marie Davis, 51, and her husband Thomas James Desharnais, 33, are charged with killing Chaskah Davis Smith at a Scottsdale hotel where the pair had been living, according to a Scottsdale Police Department probable cause statement obtained by The Daily Beast. Among other things, police found a shock collar for animals in the room but no pets, the court documents say.

Davis, who also goes by the name Stephanie Fasthorse, was granted custody of Chaskah and his 9-year-old half-brother in 2015, the filing states. This came as a surprise to Davis relatives, who said Davis biological kids had already been taken away from her long ago.

She lost her own four children when she was in her 20s, they went into the custody of our father, Davis brother Terry told The Daily Beast on Wednesday from his home in Minnesota. She got married for a while, and her husband died on her. Then she met this younger gentleman who worked with our brother, and thats her husband now, he said, referring to Desharnais. We tried to tell him that shes not very stable, youve got to be very mindful, very careful, around her.

Cops Say They Dont Buy Dads Story About Missing 4-Year-Old

Davis family didnt think the two boys were still under her care until this happened, Terry Davis, a 49-year-old county employee, continued, explaining that he and his siblings kind of distanced ourselves from their sister after she disappeared and later resurfaced in Arizona. It didn't make any sense why the county gave her custody of these kids.

Shes a very chaotic mess, he said, claiming that Davis, whom he described as having endured frequent bouts of homelessness, once moved into a family friends vacation cabin and refused to leave until the homeowner went to court. She has a long history of chronic lying, she makes it look like shes done nothing wrong... Shes done that her entire life.

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Davis latest troubles began at around 4:45 p.m. on Jan. 30, when she called 911 to report that her grandson had been found not breathing and unresponsive in the bathtub, according to the probable cause statement.

Chaskahs biological father is unknown, and his biological mother is considered a suspect in a homicide, according to the report, which says the moms whereabouts are also unknown. The 9-year-old half-brothers father is currently in prison out of state for Child Molestation, it says.

The individuals in this family are well known to SPD officers who have contacted them on multiple occasions as the family members were panhandling in the vicinity of the Extended Stay America Hotel where they have reportedly resided since 2019, the report continues, adding that neither child was enrolled in school.

When officers arrived, they found Davis performing CPR on Chaskah, who was lying naked on the floor between the bathroom and the kitchenette, it states. Chaskah repeatedly stated that the male child had been hurting himself all day.

Emergency personnel on scene noted a contusion injury to the left side of [Chaskahs] forehead and a laceration injury to his penis, it says, noting that Chaskahs 9-year-old half-brother had also been living in the hotel room with them and had facial injuries that included bruising around his eyes.

First responders removed a half liter of water from Chaskahs body as they scrambledunsuccessfullyto save the childs life. He was pronounced dead at 6 p.m. by medical staff at Scottsdales HonorHealth Osborn Trauma Center.

The half-brother, who has not been publicly identified, is now in foster care, according to the Arizona Department of Child Safety.

Davis tried to explain her grandsons condition by saying he had struck himself in the forehead with a wrench and that he had also cut himself at his penis with a paring knife, while the family was watching TV earlier that day, the probable cause statement says. She told police that she then hid the wrench so that the child could not get it once again, after which she heard exclamations of, ow, ow, ow coming from the bathroom. Davis said she discovered the paring knife in a wastebasket, so she washed it off in the sink. Neither Davis nor Desharnais sought any manner of medical attention for Chaskah, according to the filing.

About 20 minutes later, the boy wanted tubby time, the document states. After drawing a bath, Davis first said she left Chaskah alone in the tub for 15 minutes, later telling the same officer that she had only been gone for 60 seconds.

Upon returning to the bathroom, Stephanie reportedly found [Chaskah] lying on his side with his face above the water line of the water filled tub, according to the filing. Davis then drained the tub and began doing CPR, she told police.

Desharnais told cops he had been in and out all day running errands to a nearby Walgreens, but was present in hotel room #130 during the incident, according to the report.

However, he told investigators a far different version of events than Davis.

Over the past few months, Davis had become more physically and verbally abusive toward the boys, according to Desharnais.

Stephanie had called both the children numerous cruel and hurtful statements like, worthless piece of crap, lower than a piece of dirt. You're a dog, the report explains. Davis also began physically assaulting the children, said Desharnais, who told investigators he thought Davis was behaving this way in order to retaliate against the childrens mother who was part of her sons death. She also starved Chaskah for days on end, according to Desharnais, who claimed he would occasionally sneak the child food.

Maricopa County Superior Court

Desharnais alleged he had in the past witnessed Davis strike both boys with a metal ratchet, causing deep lacerations and bruising. She used a pair of needle nose pliers to pinch and bend the childrens fingers backwards, and struck them in the head with a wooden broom handle, he said. Although he knew that what Davis was doing was illegal, Desharnais told cops he never tried to intervene and never reported the assaults to authorities, the probable cause statement says.

On Sunday, Desharnais said he arrived at the hotel room at about 3:15 p.m., and heard what he thought was an animal whimpering, the filing states. In fact, he said, it was Davis allegedly assaulting Chaskah in the bathroom. Desharnais told police that Davis had hit the boy in the head with the metal ratchet at least three times, then instructed him to clean up his own blood from the floor. Desharnais also informed investigators that Davis had used a knife to cut a portion of skin off the shaft of Chaskahs penis after becoming upset about his bed-wetting problem. Because he suffered from multiple wounds that frequently bled, Davis forced Chaskah to sleep in the bathtub approximately 4 days a weekso that he doesnt get blood all over the [room], the probable cause filing states.

The next day, investigators searched the hotel room. They discovered blood in the bathtub, a socket wrench hidden under a bloody mattress, a broomstick outside the bathroom, and a pair of needle nose pliers above the refrigerator, the filing says. Cops also found a trash bag containing what appeared to be human hair, and an animal shock collar, yet no pets, according to the filing.

In a preliminary report dated Feb. 1, the Arizona Department of Child Safety said it had investigated reports of abuse by Davis and Desharnais three times over a seven-month period in 2017, but closed each one as unsubstantiated. One former hotel employee told local NBC affiliate KPNX that she was responsible for at least two of the calls, saying it was very clear there was something wrong.

Arizona Department of Child Safety

At a court appearance on Tuesday, Davis decried the evidence against her as literally just circumstantial, arguing that those kids were always taken care of. She told the judge that Desharnais felt like he was being coerced.

Davis bond was set at $3.5 million. The judge ordered her not to have contact with any minors. Desharnais bond was set at $1.5 million. A court-appointed lawyer will be assigned to both.

Its terrible that it had to come to this, Terry Davis told The Daily Beast. Look at what she's done her entire life, all the chaos she's caused, all the mayhem, all the damage shes done. Finally, this could be the time for her to pay for her crimes.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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LE MARS, Iowa -- Doctors are continuing their attempts to restore the mental competency of a Merrill, Iowa, man so he can stand trial for murder, but progress apparently has slowed.

District Judge James Daane noted in an order filed Monday that a psychiatrist's report said Thomas Knapp has "stalled" in the restoration process. Daane left a previously scheduled competency hearing on the docket for Feb. 21 in Plymouth County District Court.

In August, Senior Judge Duane Hoffmeyer ruled that Knapp was mentally incompetent to stand trial for the May 11, 2020, shooting death of Kevin Juzek and suspended all court proceedings until his competency could be restored.

Knapp was admitted to the Iowa Department of Corrections' Forensic Psychiatric Hospital on Nov. 2. In a 30-day progress report filed with the court on Dec. 3, a psychiatrist said Knapp was cooperative and had been tentatively diagnosed with a mild to moderate neurocognitive disorder and should remain in the hospital.

A 60-day progress report filed Monday contained the notice that Knapp's restoration has slowed. Another progress report is required by law in 60 days.

Knapp, 83, has pleaded not guilty of first-degree murder and willful injury. He is charged with shooting Juzek, 51, in the abdomen and chest with a 20-gauge shotgun during a disturbance at a rural Merrill home.

Knapp's mental condition has been an issue since the case's beginning. A previous psychiatric examination found Knapp mentally incompetent to stand trial, but the evaluation report mentioned the possibility of having Knapp undergo an MRI or other brain scan.

The case has been further complicated by Knapp's hearing loss, which has made it hard for him to communicate with his attorney and follow along with court proceedings, even after being fitted with hearing aids. The December psychiatrist's report said Knapp's hearing loss has been an issue, but doctors have been able to work through it.

Knapp has pleaded not guilty in a separate case of willful injury causing bodily injury, domestic abuse assault while using or displaying a dangerous weapon and two counts of first-offense domestic abuse. He is charged with striking his wife in the head with a stick and breaking bones in her hand during the same disturbance in which Juzek was killed.

Both cases will be tried at the same time.
BRUSSELS, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Tian Bao, the very first giant panda born in 2016 in Belgium, will be able to stay at the Pairi Daiza zoo in Belgium in 2022, according to a press release published by the zoo on Thursday.

"Pairi Daiza has reached an agreement with the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) allowing the eldest of the giant pandas born in Belgium to stay in 2022 in the zoo, " said the statement.

The two sides will also initiate the necessary arrangements for transporting Tian Bao to China this year, the statement continued.

Panda twins Bao Di and Bao Mei, born in 2019 to Hao Hao and Xing Hui, the parents of Tian Bao, will settle together in a new territory that will be expressly built for them.

The separation of the twins and the panda mother should make it possible to relaunch procreation attempts as part of the conservation program for this vulnerable species, according to the same source.

Xing Hui and Hao Hao arrived in Belgium in 2014 on loan from China.

The convention that governs the presence of pandas in Belgium provides that all the couple's children must be sent back to China at the age of four in order to better safeguard the species of giant pandas.

The process of returning Tian Bao to China has been delayed by the COVID-19 restrictions. Pairi Daiza has thus become one of the rare animal zoos outside of China that has five giant pandas at the same time. 
China's leader Xi Jinping (R) attends a meeting with Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro at Miraflores Palace in Caracas, Venezuela, on July 20, 2014. (Jorge Silva/Reuters)

China Tightens Grip on Latin America as Trade Relations Soar

SANTA CRUZ, BoliviaChinas reach within Latin America continued to expand in 2021, capping a 20-year trend of the Asian giants growth and influence through trade.

From 2000 to 2020, trade between China and Latin American and Caribbean countries sprouted from $12 billion to $315 billion. In 2021, bilateral exchanges grew by another 31.6 percent.

By 2035, Chinas business relationships in the region are projected to more than double, which would account for more than $700 billion.

While the economic powerhouses expanding influence in Latin America isnt new, the rate at which its happening is raising eyebrows for some experts. The United States has found itself in second place to China as the main export market for Latin America since 2010.

Much of this has been attributed to the overall lack of interest by some decision-makers within the U.S. government to develop stronger relations within the region.

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) talks to reporters at the U.S. Capitol on Aug. 1, 2019. (Mark Wilson/Getty Images)

What the United States needs is a real strategy for strengthening democracy and the rule of law in Latin America and countering the malign influence of the Chinese Communist Party, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) said.

In an interview with The Epoch Times, regional analyst Fernando Menendez said that as the United States spent decades focused on the Middle East, China quietly stepped onto the economic stage of the Americas and began systematically expanding its influence and power.

Thats particularly evident in Chile, which has historically been one of the strongest U.S. trade partners in the sector.

Chiles ambassador to China, Luis Schmidt, said that while trade with other nations fell by 10 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic shut down of 2020, relations with China grew by 12 percent.

He noted that 38.2 percent of all global exports from Chile went to China in 2020 and continued to increase in 2021.

Schmidt also pointed out that Chinese investment in Chile really started to flourish in 2019, and he confirmed that the Asian nation was their countrys primary trading partner.

This kind of expansion hasnt gone unnoticed by the U.S. Congress, which expressed concern over their communist rivals ballooning influence in Latin America. One congressional report took special note of Chinas push for military objectives within the region.

Bolivias President Evo Morales addresses the media in El Alto, Bolivia, on Nov. 10, 2019. (Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters)

Peru Foreign Trade and Tourism Minister Roberto Sanchez also confirmed China as a primary trade partner, with business between the two countries increasing by 63 percent in the first eight months of 2021, mostly due to fishing and mining exports.

Comparatively, Perus relations with the United States only grew by 25 percent in 2021.

Foreign trade has been growing, driven mainly by increased trade with Asian countries, Sanchez said.

In Bolivia, Chinas demand for beef exports continued skyrocketing in 2021, a trend established under the nations former President Evo Morales in 2019 that has continued under the current socialist regime.

Comparisons between March 2020 and March 2021 saw a gain of $15.8 million in bovine exports.

The economically long-suffering Argentina surpassed Brazil as Chinas primary trade partner in 2020 and saw a dramatic surge in imports from the communist nation from 2020 to 2021, amounting to a 78 percent increase.

Whilst Chinas influence continues to spread through commerce, the nation inches closer to controlling both the resource and manufacturing ends of much of the worlds goods.

And with that power comes the leverage to dictate trading partners for those Latin American countries.

Rubio called Nicaraguas severing of diplomatic ties with Taiwan in December 2021 a disturbing development for both the United States and the entire Western Hemisphere, indicating that it serves as a barometer for the level of power China is amassing close to U.S. borders.

A Pandemic Opportunity Realized

China never stopped buying commodities or hustling to export manufactured goods [during the pandemic], Menendez said.

And among those key manufactured goods that China sent to Latin America were COVID-19 vaccines.

In the early stages of the pandemic vaccine rollout, Central and South American countries struggled for access to immunizations, creating whats been called vaccine diplomacy in the worlds less economically developed nations. China was quick to step into the limelight by selling millions of vaccines to the besieged Latin American countries.

The communist nation was among the first to roll out a vaccine program in Latin America, selling Sinovac and Sinopharm inoculations to eager governments as early as March 2021. Vaccines from the United States didnt arrive in the region until June 2021.

A health care worker vaccinates a citizen whos more than 60 years old with the Sinovac vaccine on March 19, 2021, in Santiago, Chile. (Marcelo Hernandez/Getty Images)

One analysis showed upward of 42 percent of Chinese COVID-19 vaccines have been sent abroad, while the United States has exported only 1 percent of its own vaccines.

And the leaders of the region havent forgotten who came to their aid while wrestling with high case numbers and public demand for immunizations.

We highlight the support of China and Russia, countries that helped us acquire vaccines in the fight against COVID-19, Bolivian Foreign Minister Rogelio Mayta said in August 2021.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador personally thanked China for its collaboration in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic through the shipment of vaccines during a live broadcast in December 2021.

Menendez postulated that vaccine sales from China have a very strategic aim.

Are they trying to win friends and influence people? he asked. Absolutely.
FILE PHOTO: Truckers and supporters continue to protest coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine mandates in front of Parliament Hill in Ottawa

By Julie Gordon

OTTAWA (Reuters) - Frustrations are boiling over in Canada's capital as a protest by truckers against COVID-19 vaccine mandates has clogged downtown Ottawa for a week and shows no sign of ending, with many residents angry at police for not breaking it up.

Dozens of trucks in the so-called "Freedom Convoy" have been blocking streets since Friday, forcing the closure of the main shopping mall in the area and local businesses, and disturbed residents with constant horn honking.

The city's police force has stood idly by as protesters filled jugs of diesel to top up their rigs, which they keep running to provide heat in sub-zero temperatures, rather than cutting off the fuel supply.

"For six days and nights, residents living in downtown Ottawa continue to experience unprecedented violence on their local streets," said city councillor Catherine McKenney in a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday.

"They are being ... harassed and terrorized," McKenney said, citing complaints of air horns, erratic driving, open fires and "widespread public urination and defecation," while asking for more police support.

The government will not use troops against the truckers, Trudeau said on Thursday.

Police chief Peter Sloly said his officers could neither deny the truckers their right to demonstrate, nor was he in a position to negotiate an end to the protest.

"I do not have a mandate under the Police Services Act to negotiate with the tens of thousands of people who come to Ottawa to exercise their charter of rights to free speech," he said.

The protesters have said they will not leave Ottawa until the federal government lifts COVID-19 vaccine mandates and all pandemic restrictions, even though most of those restrictions are controlled by provincial governments.

Ottawa residents, meanwhile, say their rights are being trampled by the protesters. Some convoy participants have been photographed with racist flags and accused by residents of vandalizing pro-LGBTQ businesses.

Story continues

Cornerstone Housing for Women, an emergency shelter, said in a statement that "Women and staff are scared to go outside of the shelter, especially women of color."

The Rideau Centre mall has been shuttered since last Saturday when hundreds of protesters not wearing masks as required indoors during the pandemic, swarmed the building. The closure has cost C$19.7 million ($15.6 million) in lost revenues, the Retail Council of Canada estimates.

As frustrations mount, citizens are confronting the protesters, and there is talk of a counter protest on Saturday.

In a tense moment posted on social media on Thursday, a resident was seen yelling at protesters to leave. "What freedom have you lost?" he asked truckers, adding he was losing his mind from lack of sleep.

Earlier this week, three women were heralded as heroes in shawls after a photo of them blocking a truck on a residential street while giving a thumbs down sign went viral on social media.

"That was the only way to communicate that we don't want them to terrorize us and we don't want them to occupy our streets," Marika Morris told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

MORE PROTESTERS EXPECTED

"The protesters should now go home. This is a very disruptive situation for Ottawa citizens," Trudeau said on Thursday.

But organizers expect hundreds more to come over the weekend.

Critics have said the response to the mostly white convoy participants is "soft" compared to how police deal with protests by Indigenous and Black Canadians.

"It's OK if angry white men do it because they are politically aligned with you, but it's not OK if Indigenous people peacefully protect their own rights," Indigenous lawyer and professor Pam Palmater told APTN News.

Canada's national police force have repeatedly stepped in to remove Indigenous protesters blocking access to a gas pipeline project in northern British Columbia.

($1 = 1.2658 Canadian dollars)

(Reporting by Julie Gordon, Steve Scherer and David Ljunggren in Ottawa, Ismail Shakil in Bengaluru; editing by Grant McCool)
.

BEAVER  Charges of attempted criminal homicide, aggravated assault and discharge of a firearm into a structure were nolle prossed, or dismissed, against an Ambridge man in a December plea court hearing.

Marvory Dale Crumb Jr., 32, pleaded guilty to one count of reckless endangerment and was subsequently sentenced to two years of probation.

While on probation, he is to undergo a diagnostic evaluation and comply with its requirements, as well as have no contact, direct or indirect, with the reported victim in the case.

Police previously charged Crumb with firing a gun at an individual in Monaca, who was inside a car, with three bullet holes found in the vehicle, two of them through the driver's door and one through the door in the front passenger seat area.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Attempted criminal homicide charges dismissed against Ambridge man
Photo: Castleski (Shutterstock)

During the 2020 election, the validity of mail-in ballots was all the rage, especially from former President Donald Trump. Mail-in ballots were going missing, a lot of voters in New York reported receiving faulty absentee ballots and it took forever for millions of mail-in ballots to be counted as we waited to see who would be the next U.S. President.

Now almost a year and a half later, it has been found in multiple states that the mail-in ballots of Black voters were rejected more often than white voters, according to the New York Times.



Read more

An audit in Washington state discovered that the votes of Black residents were rejected four times more often than white voters. The main reason was problematic signatures, which disqualified one out of every 40 mail-in votes from Black residents. Overall, 29,000 ballots were rejected for signature problems.



The fight against voter suppression has ramped up since the 2020 election and there have been more restrictive voting laws passed by Republicans across the country in Florida, Georgia and Arizona.



According to Washington state officials, there is no evidence that the ballots cast by minority voters were singled out by poll workers or purposefully falsified. Many of the mail-in ballots were missing signatures or they did not match the one on file, which could be a result of voter inexperience. But no signs of racial bias were found and nothing to explain the racial disparity in rejections.



The Washington state auditor, Pat McCarthy, thinks the disparity is unacceptable and has urged election officials to take actionable steps to address the racial disparities in ballot rejection.

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From the New York Times:

The findings in Washington State mirror mail-ballot research that has been conducted in other states in recent years, including Georgia and Florida. But they are crucial in a state like Washington, which in 2011 became the second state to adopt all-mail balloting, behind Oregon. Mail-in voting has been an option for all statewide elections since 1991. Turnout in states with all-mail balloting has been among the nations highest and is often seen as a key to attracting voters who may not otherwise cast ballots because of the challenges of work, child care or transportation. It has become an increasingly popular option during the pandemic, with 43 percent of voters around the country casting their ballot by mail during the 2020 general election.

The co-founder of Black Voters Matter, LaTosha Brown says sending votes by mail can expand access to voting, specifically to Black people who have historically faced legal and racial blocks to voting, according to the New York Times.

That shouldnt be concerning just for me as a Black American, she said, according to the Times, That should be concerning for anyone who cares about democracy.



More from the New York Times:
In this image from video, the San Francisco Board of Education meets on Oct. 12, 2021. (City of San Francisco via The Epoch Times)

Only in San Francisco: A Unique School Board Recall

Commentary

The recall of San Francisco School Board Commissioners Alison Collins, Gabriela Lopez, and Faauuga Moliga crosses the finish line on Feb. 15 with what we predict will be an important and decisive victory. Average votersDemocrats, Republicans, independents, and especially parentsare waking up and becoming motivated by the fact that they really do have the power to determine and influence who will oversee the education and future of the citys children.

Their efforts to mobilize and have a say in who represents their interests and the interests of their children have become a reality. Support for this first stepto remove these three commissionersis as broad and nonpartisan as any coalition in modern San Francisco politics.

But take note of a minor miracle: The campaign is an oasis, isolated from national and state politics.

Across the United Statesand elsewhere in Californiaprotests against school boards are portrayed by opponents as Republican, far-right, racist, and even violent. At the same time, school boards are caricatured as progressive Democrat far-left culture warriors, imposing the 1619 Project, critical race theory, gender political correctness, and new, but discredited teaching methods.

In September 2021, the National Association of School Boards labeled school board protesters as domestic terrorists and called for intervention by the Department of Homeland Security. Biden administration Attorney General Merrick Garland tasked the FBI with investigating. The California School Boards Association accused local law enforcement of refusing in numerous cases to defend school boards and asked Gov. Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta for protection.

School board meetings nationwide have served as flashpoints for protests about vaccine and mask mandates, school closures, curriculum, and culture. For many parents, remote learning during the pandemic offered an abrupt introduction to the contemporary classroom. This ignited concerns about modern approaches to literacy and math, and it has caused culture shock at the treatments of race, history, and gender.

Establishment, partisan political leaders have attempted to capitalize on this growing concern about the direction and goals of local school boards. Indeed, Republican Glenn Youngkin won the race for governor of Virginia after his opponent, Democrat Terry McAuliffe, said, I dont think parents should be telling schools what they should teach.

Youngkin, on his inauguration day, issued executive orders banning critical race theory and school mask mandates. A total of 25 states, along party lines, have restricted discussion of divisive concepts in classrooms.

Partisan posturing is largely absent from the San Francisco recall story, and this is whats remarkable about it. Normally, populist or citizen issues would never have gotten off the ground because of the wild imbalance in party numbersthe Democratic Party has such tremendous influence in San Francisco. But this recall has been different.

We believe that its approval will accomplish more for parents and students than the movements weve seen elsewhere in the country. Voters in the city have come together and embarked on a constructive project that may serve as an example to the state and the nation.

Its a perfect example of how ordinary citizens, regardless of political preference, can reinvigorate local government, rejuvenate the civil service, and reassert control over the education of their children.

Two political outsiders initiated the recall effort in March 2021, after the school board postponed plans to reopen in January. Tech entrepreneur parent activists with few previous ties to the city, Autumn Looijen and her partner Siva Raj, have children enrolled in public schools in Los Altos and San Francisco.

Their struggles as a family with remote learning, frustration with curriculum, and astonishment at the priorities of the San Francisco School Board are the recalls origin story, which has resonated with parents across the political spectrum. Raj, as a noncitizen, couldnt be a formal proponent or sign the recall petition, but he can vote in this weeks election.

A truly grassroots parents movement unfolded, funded by small donations. Early on, it gathered about 20 percent of the signatures required to trigger a recall election.

For the better part of two years, high-profile actions by the school boardand especially by an individual commissionerhad already enraged influential alumni groups, the Asian community (which by and large supports quality traditional education), advocates of good government, and major donors. A coalition quickly assembled to help the grassroots effort, without partisan division.

In June 2019, the school board voted to paint over the Life of Washington mural at George Washington High School by Victor Arnautoff, one of the foremost muralists in the San Francisco area during the Great Depression. In October 2020, the board ended merit-based admissions to the prestigious Lowell High School in favor of a simple lottery.

In January 2021, the board voted to rename 44 schools because each name was associated with some perceived injustice. These included schools named after George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and even Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.).

The board had no reopening plan and failed to reach a union agreement, which prompted the city attorney to file suit in February 2021 for an injunction to reopen the schools.

In March 2021, past Twitter posts by then-School Board Vice President Alison Collins surfaced that expressed racist views on Asian Americans. The board quickly voted to strip Collins of her leadership position, and a constellation of city and state leaders called for her resignation. In reaction, Collins sued the board and her colleagues for $87 million (the suit was swiftly withdrawn).

Ultimately, legal maneuvers and public pressure preserved the Washington mural, suspended the school renaming program, and reopened the schools, but it failed to restore competitive admissions to Lowell High School.

Throughout 2021, the recall effort continued to develop as a means for parents, voters, and constituencies across the city to express their frustration and anger with the school board. Support for the recall grew and donations increased, which allowed the campaign to expand its outreach and utilize professional signature gatherers. The campaign submitted its successful petition on Sept. 8, 2021.

The board ended 2021 by cutting $90 million from its 2023 budget, narrowly avoiding a state takeover of its finances. Enrollment for the 202122 academic year declined to fewer than 50,000 students, down by 9,000 students in five years.

Establishment Democrats and liberal political figures have endorsed the recall of all three commissioners. These figures include San Francisco Mayor London Breed, state Sen. Scott Weiner, and former Board of Supervisors President Matt Gonzalez.

Some current members of the left-of-center Board of Supervisors have also endorsed recalling either Collins alone or Collins and Lopez. The most common theme and justification are that the recall effort isnt political, but its about priorities and competence. We might add that the majority of donations received by this time for the recall have been from Democratic sources.

Another minor miracle: In San Franciscoan oasis of a different kind and arguably one of the most liberal and left-leaning cities in the countrypeople of all political stripes have come together and put aside their differences to achieve something that will benefit the average parent, student, voter, taxpayer, and resident of the city.

Does this recall movement signal to the rest of the country that San Francisco is ready to move on from its national perception as a lighthouse for the blind and become a beacon of hope for good governance? We certainly hope so, and we want to congratulate everyone who has taken part in the process.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

Tony Hall Follow Tony Hall is a former supervisor for San Francisco's District 7. He has held executive and administrative positions positions in seven different city departments in all three branches of government over a 33-year period.
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Chota, Provincia de Chota, Cajamarca (298.9 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 5-10 s : Esta recostado | 12 users found this interesting.

Manga de grones (43 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / complex rolling (tilting in multiple directions) / 10-15 s : Van a quedar hundidos en su propia porqueria. Y se degradaran hasta pudrirse | 11 users found this interesting.

Papa blanca (35.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / complex motion difficult to describe / 15-20 s : Van a propagar sus enfermedades producidas por sus desechos fekales | 11 users found this interesting.

Manabi manta (577.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s : horrible | 10 users found this interesting.

Trujillo / not felt El epicentro es Santa Maria de Nieva, region Amazonas | 8 users found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / not felt

Cuenca Ecuador (264.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / single lateral shake / 1-2 minutes : in my office, monitor shaking building shaking, even got nausea | 6 users found this interesting.

Orellana-El Coca (451.1 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Estaba acostada dando de lactar a mi bebe y senti movimiento vibratorio, la ropa colgada de armario empezo a moverse un poco | 4 users found this interesting.

Cuenca, Ecuador (290.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 minutes : Started strong, horizontal shaking, swaying, a few strong waves, then gradually weaker waves over 1.5 minutes | 4 users found this interesting.

Chiclayo (411.9 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / very short : En el balcon sentada senti un sacudon y la plantas quedaron moviendo sus hojas | 5 users found this interesting.

Vilcabamba, Loja (259 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : In house, medium rocking, nothing falling | 5 users found this interesting.

Duran, Guayas (413.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s Um balanceo suave pero suficiente para que la luz y la puerta se movieran varias veces | 5 users found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s

Olon, Ecuador (519 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : Sitting in a plastic chair, outside. Chair rocking horizontally. Dog was under table and agitated a few seconds before I felt it. | 3 users found this interesting.

Guayaquil (414.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 20-30 s Preocupante | 4 users found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 20-30 s

Tumbes, Provincia de Tumbes (401.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 10-15 s : Estaba sentada en el escritorio con mi laptop, cuando intente levantarme y empece a sentir como si estuviera mareada | 2 users found this interesting.

Vilcabamba Ecuador (362.2 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s : Writing my book in a second story concrete brick building with a flat roof.....rumbling in my chair for almost 5 seconds...neighbors outside in the streets all talking...waiting for the follow up | 2 users found this interesting.

Cuenca, Ecuador (290.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 minutes : Started strong, horizontal shaking, swaying, a few strong waves, then gradually weaker waves over 1.5 minutes | 2 users found this interesting.

Cuenca / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 20-30 s Swaying of 6 story edficio. About 30seconds. | 4 users found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 20-30 s

Cuenca, Ecuador / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : Horizontal swaying slight, coffee in coffee pot moved. One person in another room on the bed felt nothing at all. | 2 users found this interesting.

Guayaquil, ecuador (415.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : Estaba acostada y senti que la cama se movio y Vi como toda la ropa que tenia en mi cuerda en ganchos tambien se movia y se cayo una camisa por el movimiento | One user found this interesting.

Samborondon (416.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : it pull to one side very hard, a feeling of a 7 in the Richter scale | 2 users found this interesting.

Vilcabamba, Ecuador (252.9 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 10-15 s : Woke me from nap, 3 separate shakes | 2 users found this interesting.

Vilcabamba, Ecuador (254.9 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / complex rolling (tilting in multiple directions) / 1-2 minutes : Shaking in the bed, chandeliers swinging, some objects falling off shelves | 2 users found this interesting.

Cumbe Ecuador (275.3 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 5-10 s : My house started moving | 2 users found this interesting.

Cuenca (292.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s : Sitting on sofa; felt several horizontal motions | 2 users found this interesting.

Cuenca (290 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 10-15 s : Reading in bed on second floor | 2 users found this interesting.

Cuenca (292.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 1-2 minutes Ver y shake | 2 users found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 1-2 minutes

Olon, Ecuador / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 5-10 s : Very light murmurs felt while sitting at the table. Nothing abrupt. | 2 users found this interesting.

Vilcabamba, Ecuador / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s | 2 users found this interesting.

Santa Isabel, Azuay, Ecuador / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 30-60 s | 2 users found this interesting.

Vilcabamba / Moderate shaking (MMI V) 2 users found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / Moderate shaking (MMI V)

Vilcabamba, Loja (259 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : In house, medium rocking, nothing falling | One user found this interesting.
Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors Sign View Photo

Sonora, CA  Tuolumne County Supervisor meetings will switch back to being virtual for the public to attend.

County officials cite the recent surge in COVID cases. The action comes a day after a majority of yesterdays meeting was canceled due to a mask choice protest. Click here to view the earlier story.

CAO Tracie Riggs says in a statement, Due to the high level of community transmission of the COVID-19 virus, and in an effort to protect our employees and the community, the Board of Supervisors chambers will be closed to the public. This notice and action will remain in effect through February 2022. Further notice will be provided for future meetings.

The county provided the options below for the public to participate in the meetings:

Zoom Webinar via computer at: https://tuolumne-ca-gov.zoom.us/j/83330990337 and/or Phone Only: 1 (720) 707-2699 with Webinar ID: 833 3099 0337

Written comments may be submitted by U.S. mail at 2 S. Green Street, Sonora, CA 95370, or email to BOSpublic@co.tuolumne.ca.us for retention as part of the administrative record, they will not be read during the meeting.

*Public comment via Zoom may use the Raise Hand feature on their computer or press *9 if participating by phone to enter the queue. The Moderator will read the last four digits for phone-only participants in lieu of name.

The meetings can also be viewed on mymotherlode.com by clicking on the media tab. Rigg also noted that members of the Board of Supervisors are also allowed to participate by teleconference.

Of related note, Supervisor Anaiah Kirk released a press release about the incident as board chair. You can read it below:

The California Department of Health currently is mandating masks be worn in County Government buildings; this is set to expire on February 15, 2022. Staff members are required to wear masks on conditions of employment and the board also wears masks during its scheduled meetings.

After public comment, a member of the public removed her mask. Supervisor Goldemberg, Supervisor Campbell, and Supervisor Brandon requested she place her mask back on and if she did not, they wanted to close the board meeting. Regardless of opinions regarding masking, I believe the mask requirement is a small request for adults. This allows us to continue with County business during board meetings and allows staff to feel safe when working with the public.

I requested the individual put their mask on but advised the rest of the board I was not Newsoms Covid Police and would not enforce any mandate on a free person of our community by removing them from the board room if they did not comply. I am not going to forcefully remove anyone from any meeting.

After returning from a short break, I re-iterated my stance and requested the three Supervisors give direction on how they would like to handle the situation. Each of the three Supervisors advised it should be the Chair (myself) who enforces the rule.

Since they were unwilling to remove her themselves, I advised them that the Sherriff was in the room and they could make their request to the Sherriff to remove her. They did not.

After discussion with staff, the remainder of the board meeting was canceled, excluding a closed session 1:30 p.m. item.

Its unfortunate that for a year, we have had folks in board meetings remove their masks at times. Sometimes a board member would ask them to fix their mask, sometimes they would not. Now that I am chair, this being my third meeting, it has suddenly become a major issue for some members of the board, so much so, we are now closing down meetings. Selah.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (Tribune News Service)  The Citadel on Thursday forcefully condemned one of its own graduates, but stopped short of naming them, after discovering they created and shared a racist post on social media that was made to look like an official statement from the military college just days into Black History Month.

The college in Charleston called the post "an abhorrent fake news release" that did not reflect the school's core values of honor, duty and respect.

"The Citadel will not sit idly by and tolerate comments of this nature," The Citadel said in a statement.

The since-deleted social media post first appeared in a private Facebook group, but screenshots of it have surfaced and are circulating online. The Facebook post, which was masquerading as a legitimate news release from the school, suggested that The Citadel was installing a segregated water fountain in honor of Black History Month.

The post has prompted outcry from Citadel alumni, especially Black graduates of the school, at a time of year when the military college has been celebrating the racial progress it has made since its founding in 1842.

The school was established to respond to a planned slave uprising. In 1861, it was Citadel cadets who fired the first shots at Fort Sumter to begin the Civil War.

(c)2022 The State (Columbia, S.C.)

Visit The State (Columbia, S.C.) at www.thestate.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
ABOARD THE USS HARRY S. TRUMAN  U.S. and NATO officials said that the Russian military was shadowing U.S. ships participating in a multinational exercise in the Adriatic Sea, adding that outside observance wasnt unusual and not necessarily related to rising tensions over Ukraine.

The comments Wednesday came as the U.S. announced that it will send 3,000 more troops to Europe to bolster NATO allies amid concerns that more than 100,000 Russian troops positioned along Ukraines borders will invade the country.

The Guardian newspaper and other media outlets also reported that six amphibious Russian warships from the Baltic Sea sailed into the Mediterranean Sea last week.

The Russian Defense Ministry said the ships will take part in naval maneuvers, according to The Drive, an online news site.

Meanwhile, the destroyer USS Ross joined Frances Charles de Gaulle carrier strike group for its deployment to the eastern Mediterranean this week, the U.S. Navy announced Saturday. The carrier strike group set sail on Tuesday.

U.S. Navy ships and aircraft routinely operate in the vicinity of Russian military units in the Mediterranean and other areas, said Lt. Cmdr. Karl Schonberg, a spokesman for U.S. 6th Fleet. The interactions are especially common in constrained waterways, such as the Black, Mediterranean and Adriatic seas, he said.

Schonberg did not directly comment about recent encounters but characterized the majority of interactions as safe, professional and compliant with international law. However, the Navy has in recent years released video of Russian aircraft flying very closely to U.S. ships and planes in maneuvers that service officials deemed dangerous.

U.S. and NATO officials aboard the USS Harry S. Truman wouldnt say where the carrier strike group would be sent after the Neptune Strike 2022 exercise ends Friday. NATO officials described Neptune as a vigilance activity that reflects routine deterrence activities aimed at ensuring peace and stability.

The exercise, which included the U.S. 6th Fleet flagship USS Mount Whitney, was more about allies and partners and not about Russia, said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Curt Renshaw, commander of Carrier Strike Group 8.

We planned to be able to operate wherever we are needed most, so were needed here most right now (operating with NATO), Renshaw said.

While emphasizing NATOs strength, Renshaw said his job was to ensure that the strike group could provide that capability to dominate a maritime environment, to provide security should officials decide it is needed.

Renshaw also pointed out the strike groups ability to coordinate with counterparts as far away as the Netherlands and Poland.

What we bring to strategic decision-makers is that we are able to execute absolutely to perfection and integrate (with) partners, so that on a tactical level, we are on our game, he said.

Recent Russian actions were not a determining factor in Trumans participation in the event, said Rear Adm. Marco Papi, deputy chief of staff of operations for Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO.

Integrating the carrier was the culmination of years of work to refine the relationship between the U.S. fleet and the NATO strike force, Papi said.

U.S. officials announced Trumans addition to the exercise last month, lauding it as the first time a carrier strike group would be under NATO control since the Cold War.

The carrier strike group was thought to have been assigned to U.S. 5th Fleet, which operates more in the Middle East, but was changed to 6th Fleet in mid-December, Renshaw said.
Green Energy Mandates Spell Permanent US Energy Dependence on China

Commentary

In the White Houses cattle drive to herd U.S. investors into green energy corporate boondogglesand out of plentiful, cheap energylots of truth has fallen onto the cutting room floor.

Take, for example, the trendy government-driven frenzy of green energy investment politics. Much of it is driven by the fallacy that Green Energy mandates are merely another exciting investment choice. Yet green energy is an ideological crusade to radically alter societyand very much not based on sound or proven supply-and-demand dynamics that investors should care about most.

Widely held assumptions now driving investment momentum into green tech are understandable. After all, Treasury and Federal Reserve officials have gone all out to revamp capital markets and regulatory initiatives to (1) bolster politically favored green energy companies and (2) wreck private energy companies as an investment option.

Take the Feds and European Central Banks jihad to artificially induce capital starvation in gasoline and natural gas investment. Weve seen this script beforeNixon-era price controls crushed U.S. energy investment  and the resulting oil production curtailment, in turn, precipitated the OPEC embargo in the 1970s epic fuel crisis.

Unfortunately, policymakers dont appear to grasp certain hard realities that come with mandating massive fleets of all-electric cars and gigantic electric grid batteries. It must all be powered by lithium. Lots of lithium.

First, Beijing holds the high cards in global lithium mining and productionthe rare, uber-light reflective substance thats central to all known green battery technologies. There are no known substitutes for lithium due to its unique conductivity and reflective properties. Lithium mining is severely restricted in the West, and there are only a limited number of up-for-grabs international sources.

It seems unlikely the left will ever permit massive new lithium mining. Already the Biden administration is further restricting U.S. mining operations.

As the Wests little understood lithium supply dilemma deepens, its no wonder Chinas rulers treasure their lithium dominance as a highly prized national gemstone and as a state strategic weapon.

The threat to Taiwan is far better understood. But Chinas drive to dominate global supplies of civilization-supporting strategic minerals is also behind Beijings escalations to evict Bidens incredible shrinking U.S. Navy from the South China Seaand vast swaths of adjacent international waters. China is poised to annex these vast international seabeds teeming with industrial and tech metals.

And the White Houses many media allies studiously ignore just how half-baked current green energy technology truly is. For example, todays state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries are 40 times less dense in terms of energy output than the energy stored in an equal physical volume of petrol.

Real Clear Energy notes, For direct comparability in performance, the car battery has to be forty times bigger in volume than your cars gas tank.

Think about that! To get the same range and performance you get from a normal tank of inexpensive gasoline, the super-costly modern lithium battery system powering your car would have to be 40 times larger than your gas tank!

No wonder the International Energy Agency projects that aggressive global mining of green energy minerals must happen in order to implement all-electric car mandates.

European Union central planners have also mandated millions of battery-powered carseven though there isnt a single active lithium mining operation among their 27 member nations.

The Wood MacKenzie Mining Group packs this entire issue into one quote, The [green] energy transition starts and ends with metals.

Already the London Metal Exchange notes that lithium prices are soaring to unprecedented levelsas car makers snatch up every kilogram of lithium hydroxide. As one industry observer spilled in an obscure trade publication, This trend is threatening the EV revolution.

While U.S. bureaucratic potentates may excel at hide-it-from-the-people power grabseven they cant conjure up enough lithium to power massive electric fleets of cars, trains, buses, and the national power gridno matter how many decrees they issue.

Energy is the real world and they are not.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Baggy and blue? Pale and old? Or just plain winter white?

No, I'm not flicking through the latest paint colour chart from Farrow & Ball, but reporting a rare glimpse of real world fashion from none other than the front row itself.

Forget bare legs in winter or oversized sunglasses indoors. For once, the fashionistas are out in force on the side of us mere mortals. In jeans  glorious jeans. And in every cut under the sun.

The sheer number of styles on parade at the couture shows in Paris last week was proof that my favourite maxim is very much in vogue: life is too short for compromises or ill-fitting jeans.

Or indeed any jeans you don't feel instantly comfortable in.

For if this season's look has a single theme, it's the fact that for the first time in living memory, every style of denim is in.

Baggies, high-rise, flares, 'mom' cut, straight, skinny, ripped, boyfriend  even that staple of the Nineties, the bootleg, is back.

With the possible exception of the low-rise jean (which should still be worn with extreme caution and generally only by the under-30s), anything goes.

Spoilt for style: Marina Fogle rocks a pair of wide leg jeans at her her home in London

Smart, slouchy or wildly sexy, the joy of jeans is that they cater for every stage of a woman's life, no matter her shape.

There's also a pair for every budget. You can spend 11 at H&M or splash out 2,700 at Net-a-Porter. You won't find fashion more democratic than denim.

This is music to my ears. I've loved jeans since I became interested in fashion as a teen.

The first denim to get my heart racing was a pair of green Levi 501s. Acquired on a shopping trip with my mother on London's King's Road in the early-1990s, the stitched arch on the back pocket instantly symbolised my status as cool.

I loved them so much, I bought a second pair, in of-the-moment burgundy, and restricted their wear because they were so perfect I was convinced I would be wearing them for my whole life.

I even remember their waist size  a 28. I made a promise to myself that I'd always fit into my first loves.

While I'm still a size 28, those jeans are long gone, relegated to the charity shop. But denim never left my wardrobe.

When I look back at my life, I can separate it into eras according to the style of jeans I was wearing.

Marina Fogle in her bootcut jeans, a new purchase for this winter

Cropped jeans are still in, whether they be skinny (seen in the mom cut style, left) or more flared (right)

The Nineties heralded the rise of the designer jean.

While the once humble blue cotton twill, originally beloved of Californian gold miners and cowboys, had, in the hands of Levi Strauss and Lee Mercantile, become more than just a utilitarian staple, it was Versace, Dior and Dolce & Gabbana who introduced them to the catwalk.

Suddenly, a budget of 40 was no longer enough. It was on a trip to New York in the late Nineties that I returned with a pair of Ernest Sewn jeans, picked up from a store in the Meatpacking District and tailored for me while I waited.

I can't even recall what style they were, only that they were the most precious item of clothing I had.

As the Noughties dawned  and my decade of non-stop socialising began  my growing collection of jeans became the most crucial items in my wardrobe.

As a mostly single girl about town, I went out five nights a week, to the chicest of London bars, clubs and restaurants, always in jeans.

During the day they'd be paired with boots; in the evening, I'd don a pair of killer high heels, just like my style icons in TV's Sex And The City.

Then, when I was dating my husband, TV adventurer Ben Fogle, I'd go to film premieres, clubs, parties and dinners, always in jeans. From red carpet to swanky restaurants, I seldom saw the need to wear anything else.

This was undoubtedly helped by the fact that the Noughties also heralded the innovative game-changer in denim: Lycra.

MARINA FOGLE: Baggies, high-rise, flares, 'mom' cut, straight, skinny, ripped, boyfriend  even that staple of the Nineties, the bootleg, is back. (Pictured: Marina in a pair of ripped jeans)

Gone were the days of having the blood supply to your legs cut off when you sat down in a tight pair, or of performing an awkward lunge to loosen up the newly washed.

With new stretch came an even more skin- tight look, with 'spray-on' becoming de rigueur.

But this was also the era of the low-rise, hip-skimming waistline that looked fabulous on Kate Moss but gave everyone else a muffin top; a time when your underwear mattered as much as your outerwear, as the top of your thong peeped over a receding waistband when you sat down.

Apparently, we have the late designer Alexander McQueen to thank for this trend, a style that gave us the so-called 'whale tail'.

It's testament to the power of the trend that the style I vividly remember being so flattering fills me with horror today.

I may have seen the light with that particular cut, but my love of jeans has remained otherwise undimmed. It certainly didn't waver after I married Ben.

I may not have worn denim as I walked down the aisle, but when we had our portrait done (a wedding gift from Ben's parents) both of us are wearing jeans  a world away from the silk shirt and pearls in which my mother had been painted 30 years earlier.

MARINA FOGLE: Today, my wardrobe is full of myriad styles (Pictured: Marina in a pair of skinny jeans)

Of course, wearing denim during pregnancy wasn't easy. My waist quickly disappeared as my babies started to grow and, even before I'd got through the first trimester, I was casting my beloved jeans aside in despair.

Thankfully, my exasperation was short-lived. Jeans designers had realised there was a gap in the market and, capitalising on the new trend to show off your burgeoning bump rather than conceal it, maternity jeans were born.

I splurged on two 150 pairs of Paige jeans that allowed my relationship with denim to continue, despite no longer having a 28 in waist. They made me feel fabulous.

Today, my wardrobe is full of myriad styles. I've embraced the trend for high waists  my back is now warm and my underwear no longer needs to be on show  but I also have long, cropped, straight, flared, baggy and even, new for this winter, a pair of bootcuts.

My biggest denim investment was a few years ago when I was talked into wearing a pair of Alexander McQueen's for a magazine photo shoot.

A world away from the low-slung monstrosities of the Nineties, they were loose fitting, ankle-grazing beauties  nothing like the jeans I thought suited me. They were a revelation.

They made my bottom look pert, my legs look long. I simply had to have them.

MARINA FOGLE: I've embraced the trend for high waists  my back is now warm and my underwear no longer needs to be on show  but I also have long, cropped, straight, flared (pictured), baggy and even, new for this winter, a pair of bootcuts

MARINA FOGLE: I love that jeans are the ultimate in low maintenance. Their blue hue means dirt, stains, everyday grime is well concealed. (Pictured: Marina rocks a denim jumpsuit at her home in London)

I can't even remember how much they cost now. Maybe I consciously blanked the sum out of my mind. But, my goodness have I worn them! Cost per wear, they're probably on a par with many of my High Street acquisitions.

And when I went to greet my husband at Heathrow airport on his triumphant return from his six-week expedition scaling Mount Everest, I knew no other outfit would do.

I love that jeans are the ultimate in low maintenance. Their blue hue means dirt, stains, everyday grime is well concealed. They're easy to spot clean and when they need a wash, you can just chuck them in the machine.

As we're more aware than ever of the impact of washing and dry cleaning on our planet, I'm done with clothes that need to be professionally laundered.

Good, honest cotton that washes well, and can be sustainably produced, ticks all my eco boxes.

So pull out your favourite pair or invest in a new one  and encase your curves or skim your skinnies.

Ladies, it's time to fall back in love with the greatest wardrobe leveller of them all.

If in doubt, wear denim.
Nii Tetteh Otu II, Paramount Chief of the Kpone Traditional Area in the Greater Accra Region, has urged members of Parliament to consider the national interest regarding government's electronic transaction levy E-Levy.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency in an interview Nii Tetteh Otu II said the two sides in parliament must tone down the war of words either for or against it.

The 1.75 per cent E-levy has generated controversy since it was announced in the 2022 budget and had sharply divided Parliament, with the Minority vowing to vote against its passage into law.

The levy is to allow the government to generate revenue from electronic transactions, including mobile money.

The Kpone Paramount Chief asserted that many Ghanaians were opposed to the passage of the bill and appealed to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to listen to the masses and withdraw the bill.

He urged the government to prevent the many financial lapses within the public sector to rake in the needed revenue for developing the country, instead of introducing new taxes and levies.

The Kpone Paramount Chief urged parliamentarians from both sides of the political divide not only to take delight in what benefits them alone but must consider the plight of the average Ghanaian.

He also advised the parliamentarian not to stage a walk-out when the house finally sits to deal with the electronic transactions levy.

Nii Otu also suggested the judicious use of the county's resources to create wealth, saying that Ghana could not afford to fail amid the natural resources.

GNA
Prime Minister will address two digital rallies on February 4 in poll-bound Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh, the said on Thursday.

In rally for Uttar Pradesh, Modi will digitally address assembly segments from the districts of Meerut, Noida, Ghaziabad, Aligarh and Hapur, the party said.

Similarly in the rally for Uttarakhand, he will address assembly segments from Almora, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar and Champawat.

It will be Modi's second set of digital rallies, with the first one having been held on January 31.

Modi may also address political rallies digitally in Punjab later, party sources said.

The first phase of the assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh is on February 10, and the second and third phases are on February 14 and 20.

Most of the western Uttar Pradesh constituencies would go to polls in the first three phases. Polls in the state will be held in seven phases in all.

The elections in Uttarakhand will be held on February 14.

The Election Commission has so far not allowed full-scale physical rallies, and only public meetings with a cap of 1,000 people are allowed.

(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 Navy chaplain who has served the United States for nearly 20 years fears he will be fired after he was denied a religious exemption for the COVID vaccine.

The Department of Defense announced in August that every servicemember in the United States military will be required to get the jab. By the end of January 2022, the Navy had received 3,740 religious exemption requests - none of which had been granted.

The Navy has already ousted 118 sailors for refusing to get vaccinated - with a total of 5,050 active members and 2,959 Ready Reserve sailors still unvaccinated. The service has approved 10 permanent medical exemptions, 259 temporary medical exemptions, and 60 administrative exemptions for active duty sailor.

One Navy chaplain, who spoke to FOX News on the condition of anonymity, said his request for religious exemption was recommended for approval by both his commanding officer and his commanding officer's boss before it was rejected 'at the top.'

The chaplain now says he believes the Biden administration is using servicemembers as 'test subjects' for the vaccine.

'I honestly think that the push for 100% vaccination has to do with eliminating anything that looks like a control group,' he said. 'I think that there's probably money involved somewhere.

'I think that the military has been a nice little test group, a set of test subjects, that really can't say "no."'

He said he has filed an appeal, but continues to face dismissal from the Navy.

And if he is fired before he hits the 20-year mark, he said, he would miss out on crucial retirement pay and benefits.

An anonymous U.S. Navy Chaplain told FOX News he faces being fired after his religious exemption for the COVID vaccine was denied

The unnamed chaplain claimed the Biden administration is using servicemembers as 'test subjects' for the vaccine after the administration mandated that all military members receive it

'It's a kick in the gut, for sure,' the unnamed chaplain told FOX News. 'If I lose retirement benefits that way, that would be a pretty significant burden to me and my family.

'At the same time, this is a fight worth fighting,' he said. 'I do not think this is a lawful order.'

Service members in each branch of the military can request a religious exemption, which chaplains assess for 'sincerely held beliefs.' Those who are applying for the exemption must also meet with their commanders and medical personnel.

The final decision is made higher up the chain of command, according to the Military Times, and is also based on whether the person's vaccine exemption would pose a risk to mission accomplishment, unit cohesion, the health and safety of the force and military readiness.

In the chaplain's case, he said, his request was recommended for approval by his commanding officer and his commanding officer's boss, but he still received a rejection letter from Vice Admiral John B Novell Jr.

'A waiver of immunizations would have a predictable and detrimental effect of your readiness and the readiness of the Sailors who serve alongside you in both operational and non-operational (including training) environments,' the letter read.

'I find that disapproval of your request for a waiver of immunization requirements is the least restrictive means available to preserve the Department of Defense's compelling interest in military readiness, mission accomplishment and the health and safety of military service members.

'The Navy is a specialized community governed by a discipline separate from that of the rest of society,' it continued.

'While every Sailor is welcome to express a religion of choice or none at all, our greater mission sometimes requires reasonable restrictions.

'You have my sincere best wises for your continued success in your Navy career.'

More than 1.62 million US military service members are vaccinated, according to the DoD

The chaplain said the letter he received is nearly identical to those many of his colleagues received, as the United States Navy continues to refuse any religious exemptions to the vaccine mandate.

Under the mandate, all active-duty sailors were due to be fully vaccinated by November 28, but senior figures within the Navy held off from any instant cull to see if any vaccine sceptics might change their minds.

Since then, the Navy has publicly announced the separation of more than 60 serving sailors for refusing to get a vaccine. Vice Admiral Merz referred to vaccines as 'biological body army' when speaking with reporters in the Pentagon last month.

In all, 5,731 sailors and 2,960 serving in reserve are now at risk of discharge if they continue to refuse receiving a COVID vaccine.

And in an update issued January 26, the Navy said it had let go of 23 Active Component sailors and 22 entry-level sailors, who were separated during initial training in their first 180 days of service.

The branch has issued 10 permanent medical exemptions, 259 temporary medical exemptions and 59 administrative exemptions to active-duty service members. No religious accommodation requests have been approved.

There is now a backlog in appeals requests for the religious exemptions, and the chaplain said: 'Nobody knows quite what to do with us while we're waiting for all of these appeals to be adjudicated.

'I am in limbo: I'm waiting to hear back on the appeal,' he said. 'Meanwhile, we're all sort of second-class citizens because we haven't had the jab.'

About 97.5 percent of the Air Force is vaccinated against the COVID vaccine. Basic trainees are seen here waiting during a mandatory observation period after receiving the first dose of their COVID vaccine in May 2021

The Pentagon doubled-down on its demands that service members get vaccinated on Wednesday. In this photo from February 2021, Sergeant Julia Benson of the Army National Guard doled out a Pfizer COVID vaccine

Military branches and the COVID-19 vaccine mandate US Army Deadline: Dec. 15 Percent vaccinated: 97% Members dismissed: 3,300 at risk of being fired US Navy Deadline: Nov. 28 Percent vaccinated: 97% Members dismissed: 45 as of last week US Air Force Deadline: Nov. 2 Percent vaccinated: 97.5% Members dismissed: 64, including members in basic training US Coast Guard Deadline: Nov. 22 Percent vaccinated: 95.3%, including partially vaccinated Members dismissed: Unknown Marine Corps Deadline: Nov. 28 Percent vaccinated: 96%, including partially vaccinated Members dismissed: 334 Sources: Individual branches, Washington Post, US Naval Institute Advertisement

The Marine Corps, meanwhile, has adjudicated 3,293 requests out of 3,376 religious exemption requests, but has only approved three.

One active-duty Marine said he believes the Corps only granted those exemptions to give the appearance that the religious rights of service members are being respected.

'That they're getting away with it just absolutely astounds me,' he told FOX News. 'I would have thought that if you grant one, you have to grant every one because or else they are picking and choosing which religion is valid nd who's Constitutional rights under the First Amendment will be honored.

'It's offensive to me as someone who loves the Constitution,' he said, adding: 'The whole thing is shrouded in secrecy.'

In a statement to Federal News Network, though, the Marine Corps said 'all current exemption requests are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis' and 'each request will be given full consideration with respect to the facts and circumstances submitted in the request.'

The service has approved 635 medical or administrative exemptions and fired 334 Marines for refusing to get the shot.

In total, the Marine Corps reports, 5 percent of service members remained unvaccinated as of January 20, according to the US Naval Institute, a non-profit, private military association.

The total was 4 percent when counting partial vaccination.

The service has approved 635 medical or administrative exemptions and fired 334 Marines for refusing to get the shot.

In December, the Air Force also said it had dismissed 27 service members for not getting the vaccine, CNN reported, while 37 people in basic training had already been removed, making for a total of 64 separations.

The branch had the earliest vaccine mandate deadline, which was set for November 2.

About 97.5 percent of active duty Air Force members are now fully vaccinated, according to the branch's latest numbers.

The Coast Guard, meanwhile, had a deadline of November 22. By the end of the year, 94.4 percent of active-duty members were fully vaccinated, the US Naval Institute reported on January 3.

About 95.3 percent had received one shot. The branch hadn't fired anyone at that point.

The Army has said that more than 3,000 soldiers have been issued official written reprimands, which suggests they are already identified in the disciplinary process, and some of them could be among the first to be discharged.

More than 3,600 have asked for religious or medical exemptions, according to a tally from January 26. Of those, only six permanent medical exemptions have been approved, while more than 5,800 temporary exemptions were granted.

The Marine Corps has discharged at least 334 Marines for not getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Above, Marines attend a funeral service for NYPD officer Wilbert Mora on Wednesday

Last week, the Navy announced it had fired 45 people for refusing the vaccine. Above, Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Mike Ganousis fires an M4A1 carbine during an exercise on January 23 aboard the USS Harry S. Truman

Last month, a federal judge in Texas granted a temporary injunction preventing the firing of 35 special operators within the Navy, who had sued the Pentagon over religious objections to the vaccine mandate.

US District Judge Reed O'Connor, of the Northern District of Texas, issued a preliminary injunction saying there is 'no COVID-19 exception to the First Amendment' and that the pandemic doesn't give the government the license to 'abrogate those freedoms.'

And Navy Cmdr. Lucian Kins, the executive officer of the destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill, became the first naval officer to be fired over vaccine refusal in December.

He reportedly requested a religious exemption to the military's vaccine requirement, but was denied and appealed the decision.

Navy spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Jason Fischer declined to give the precise reason why Kins was relieved of command, citing privacy concerns.

He did, however, state the reason for the firing was that Anderson lost confidence in Kins' ability to perform his duties after he failed to obey a lawful order.

Navy Cmdr. Lucian Kins (pictured with his wife) was fired from his job as the executive officer of the USS Winston Churchill in December because he refused to get the COVID-19 vaccine or be tested to prove he did not have the virus

Kins, who was on track to become commander of the USS Winston Churchill (pictured) in the next year and a half, had requested a religious exemption to the vaccine mandate

Then, on Wednesday, the Pentagon ordered all service members - active-duty, National Guard and Reserves - to get the vaccine, saying it is critical to maintaining the health and readiness of the force. COVID-19 cases continue to surge around the country as a result of the omicron variant.

Army Secretary Christine Wormuth issued the directive Wednesday ordering commanders to begin involuntary separation proceedings against those who have refused the shots and do not have a pending or approved exemption.

'Army readiness depends on soldiers who are prepared to train, deploy, fight and win our nation's wars,' she said.

'Unvaccinated soldiers present risk to the force and jeopardize readiness. We will begin involuntary separation proceedings for Soldiers who refuse the vaccine order and are not pending a final decision on an exemption.'

The order includes active-duty soldiers, reserves serving on active duty, and cadets at the Military Academy at West Point, its preparatory school and ROTC.

The detailed order said soldiers will be discharged for misconduct, and noted that those who are eligible to retire may do so before July 1.

Overall, more than 650 military members including Marines, airmen and sailors have been thrown out of the military or dismissed from entry-level training at boot camps, according to data released in the past two weeks by the services.

The military services have been going through a methodical process to deal with those who refuse the vaccine as well as those who request medical, administrative or religious exemptions.

The reviews require counseling with medical personnel and chaplains as well as senior commanders.
Sarah Palin, a former Republican U.S. vice presidential candidate and Alaska governor, went to trial against The New York Times Thursday in a defamation case that could test long-standing protections for American news media.

Palin, 57, sued the Times in 2017 over an editorial that incorrectly linked her political rhetoric to a 2011 Arizona mass shooting that left six dead and then-U.S. Representative Gabby Giffords seriously wounded.

The disputed wording had been added by former editorial page editor James Bennet, who is also a defendant. The Times quickly corrected the editorial.

"What am I trying to accomplish? Justice, for people who expect the truth in the media," Palin told reporters as she entered the Manhattan federal courthouse.

A jury was chosen on Thursday. Palin is expected to be the star witness at the trial, which is expected to last five days.

'Fair play'

U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff told prospective jurors that some would undoubtedly have heard of Palin, the Times or both and "will have, perhaps, views. That's irrelevance. What is central to every jury is the American sense of fair play."

The trial was delayed from January 24 because Palin tested positive for the coronavirus. Palin has publicly said she will not get the COVID-19 vaccine.

The trial comes after two U.S. Supreme Court justices and some legal scholars recommended revisiting the high court's landmark 1964 decision in New York Times v. Sullivan that made it difficult for public officials to prove defamation.

To win, Palin must offer clear and convincing evidence that the Times acted with "actual malice," meaning it knew the editorial was false or had reckless disregard for the truth.

Headlined "America's Lethal Politics," the disputed June 14, 2017, editorial was published after a shooting in Alexandria, Virginia, in which Steve Scalise, a member of the House of Representatives' Republican leadership, was wounded. The editorial questioned whether the shooting reflected how vicious American politics had become.

It said "the link to political incitement was clear" when a man named Jared Lee Loughner opened fire in the 2011 shooting after Palin's fundraising political action committee had circulated a map putting Gifford and 19 other Democrats under "cross hairs."

Bennet had added that language to a draft prepared by a Times colleague and did not intend to blame Palin.

The Times later said its quick correction removing those words reflected its lack of actual malice.

'Preconceived narrative'

Palin said the added language fit Bennet's "preconceived narrative," including opposition to gun rights advocacy.

She is seeking unspecified damages, saying the editorial harmed her reputation. The Times has not suffered a loss in a defamation case in more than half a century.

The Supreme Court justices who called for reconsidering the Sullivan precedent are conservatives Clarence Thomas and Neil Gorsuch.

Thomas has said little historical evidence suggested that the actual malice standard flowed from the original meaning of the U.S. Constitution's First and 14th amendments.

Gorsuch has said the standard offered an "ironclad subsidy for the publication of falsehoods" in a landscape increasingly populated by media that can disseminate sensational information with little regard for the truth.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer apologized Thursday for saying that the Supreme Court was made up of only white men until 1981 - forgetting the country's first black justice, Thurgood Marshall, was already sitting on the court.

'Sorry that I misspoke earlier today,' Schumer tweeted Thursday afternoon. 'Of course, I remember the dedicatino and legal excellence that Thurgood Marshall brought to the Supreme Court.'

Earlier, Schumer was on the floor defending President Joe Biden's decision to announce he would be appointing the first female black justice to the high court.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor Thursday that, 'the Supreme Court, was all white men' until 1981, when the country's first black justice, Clarence Thomas, was already serving

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer apologized Thursday for saying that the Supreme Court was made up of only white men until 1981

'Until 1981, this powerful body, the Supreme Court, was all white men,' Schumer said.

'Imagine. America wasn't all white men in 1981, or ever,' the New York Democrat continued.

Justice Thurgood Marshall was appointed to the Supreme Court by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1967 and retired in 1991

'Under President Biden and this Senate majority, we're taking historic steps to make the courts look more like the country they serve by confirming highly qualified, diverse nominees,' the leader added.

Marshall was appointed to the Supreme Court by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1967 and retired in 1991.

Republican President George H.W. Bush chose Justice Clarence Thomas, the country's first conservative male black justice, as Marshall's replacement.

Last week, a member of the court's liberal wing, Justice Stephen Breyer, announced his retirement, with Biden reiterating his campaign promise to nominate the country's first female black Supreme Court justice.

A number of Republicans have grumbled that Biden is implementing affirmative action.

The White House has shot back by pointing to Republican President Ronald Reagan's vow to nominate the country's first female justice, which he did with the pick of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.

Former President Donald Trump also pledged to fill the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's seat with another woman.

He selected conservative Justice Amy Coney Barrett.

Schumer met with Biden at the White House Wednesday to discuss the process of getting the president's pick through the upper chamber.

With the Senate's 50-50 split, Democrats are down one crucial member after New Mexico Sen. Ben Ray Lujan was hospitalized with a stroke, but is expected back in Washington in four to six weeks.

The Democrats and then the Republicans changed the filibuster rules so the 60-vote threshold isn't needed for judicial appointment votes.
One of the countrys largest unions has been quietly targeting voters in must-win federal electorates with a scare campaign falsely claiming the Coalition has a secret plan that would stop pensioners buying Christmas presents for their grandchildren.

Two ads run last year online by the 150,000 member United Workers Union appear to emulate the devastatingly effective Mediscare and death taxes campaigns that hit the Coalition and Labor, respectively, at the last two elections.

They link to a site asserting with words and imagery that Prime Minister Scott Morrison intends to force aged pensioners nationwide onto cashless debit cards, which restrict welfare money to stop it being used on alcohol and gambling.

Memes from a page linked to the United Workers Union that incorrectly suggests the government is planning to put age pensions on the cashless debit card.

The government is trialling a cashless debit card in select locations around the country. It previously said it wants to broaden the scheme, which critics have denounced as patronising and ineffective for the parents and unemployed workers it is designed for. The government has repeatedly and specifically denied it will ever force aged pensioners onto the cards.
MOSES LAKE, Wash. (Tribune News Service)  Sgt. Cleveland Whiteside III may be from Jackson, Mississippi, but he doesn't find Moses Lake in January all that cold.

"I've been places where it gets colder," the Marine Corps sergeant said, referring to a training exercise he said he was part of in Norway. "So I've got those places embedded in my mind and when I feel like I'm cold, I remember that I'm not there."

Whiteside, who has been a Marine for six years, was in Moses Lake Wednesday with Charlie Company of the 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment based at Camp Pendleton, as part of the Corps' Winter Fury 22 exercise this week, intended to simulate arming and refueling U.S. fighters from a forward airbase  say, in the Philippines  for a long-range strike as far as 1,000 miles away.

However, the Marines of Charlie Company also took time to hone their urban warfare skills on Tuesday and Wednesday by assaulting a Port of Moses Lake warehouse used to store old vehicles and equipment.

According to Capt. William Cheatham, commander of Charlie Company, the assault gives his Marines several important opportunities they don't get by simply using the training facilities on base.

"Bases are built to facilitate training, to drive the objectives that we are trying to push on our Marines," Cheatham said.

Among those challenges is working around civilian infrastructure at a working airport in ways the Marines might have to if they are temporarily deployed to a distant country and have to take everything they need to fight with them.

"They have to work around obstacles," Cheatham said. "This place isn't built for Marines to use, and that provides us a unique challenge for Marines to work through."

The "assault" of the warehouse at the corner of Randolph Road Northeast and 24th Avenue Northeast also included a "fight" against what Cheatham called "a living, breathing, thinking enemy inside the facility" played by other Marines. It also included a small drone, controlled locally by a Marine in Charlie Company, to do aerial reconnaissance and other visual intelligence.

Cheatham said while U.S. forces have long had access to drone surveillance, controllers were usually far away. Now, a Marine on scene can control the device with a computer tablet.

"Now, there's someone walking with us, we can talk face to face and tell them exactly what we want to see," Cheatham said.

The Marines didn't even use blank rounds in their "assault" on the warehouse, but the "battle" was loud, with Marines constantly shouting at each other as they cleared rooms and dodged between trucks, pallets, barrels and a pair of old fire engines.

"It provides a level of realism here before we head out the door to do our jobs elsewhere," he said.

Whiteside, who during the after-action review reminded Marines to take notes in the small, green notebooks each one carries to learn from the exercise, said the training assault went well, and the unit showed improvement on Wednesday.

"We took a compound that we did a raid on, that's pretty much what we did here," Whiteside said.

"We're seeing the unit getting better, and we're seeing that we're ready to accomplish the mission here," Cheatham added.

The Marines of Charlie Company are set to return to California on Thursday.

(c)2022 the Columbia Basin Herald, Wash.

Visit the Columbia Basin Herald, Wash. at www.columbiabasinherald.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
ACCRA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has decided to send a stabilization force to help stabilize the security situation in Guinea-Bissau after Tuesday's failed coup, an ECOWAS official said Thursday.

ECOWAS Commission President Jean-Claude Kassi Brou said at a press briefing after an extraordinary summit of the authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government that the regional bloc has decided to offer military support to Guinea-Bissau to secure its democracy and sustain peace and security in the country.

"This is something that we will do very rapidly to ensure that this type of attempt of take-over power by force does not take place," said Kassi Brou.

He said it took such a force from ECOWAS in the past to stabilize democracy in a country that experienced two military coups, a civil war, and a presidential assassination by the military since 1994.

The government of Guinea-Bissau on Wednesday confirmed 11 people died during a failed coup attempt that took place in the country on Tuesday. 
NSW Liberals are warning a worsening factional battle will spark civil war in the seat of Hughes ahead of the federal election and party members in the south Sydney electorate will not accept a candidate being imposed on them.

As Prime Minister Scott Morrison flags federal intervention to end the turmoil over preselections, branch members have been enraged by a purported plan to install former Young Liberals president Alex Dore as the candidate for Hughes, held by turncoat MP Craig Kelly, ahead of other nominees including state Liberal MP Melanie Gibbons.

Scott Morrison tried to turn the governments mistakes, such as the slow arrival of vaccines last year, into an assurance to voters about his experience. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

In a letter to the Liberal Party state executive seen by the Herald, president of the Hughes federal electoral conference (FEC) John Riad said party members had not had a preselection or been given the free will to select their member without external interference since 2010.

The FEC has shown tolerance being overruled for over a decade for the greater good of the country, the Coalition government, and for the Liberal Party, Mr Riads letter said.
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki speaks during the daily briefing in the Brady Briefing Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on January 24, 2022. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images

A reporter pressed Psaki on US claims regarding civilian casualties linked to a raid that killed ISIS's leader.

The US said that the civilians were killed when the ISIS leader blew himself up.

As Psaki pushed back, the reporter said the US military hasn't always been "straightforward" about civilian deaths.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Thursday got into a back-and-forth with a reporter on Air Force One amid questions over the reliability of information provided by the US military on a raid that resulted in the death of ISIS's leader.

Amid reports that civilians were killed, President Joe Biden on Thursday said that ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi blew himself up as US forces moved in to capture him in northwestern Syria. Biden said the explosion that Qurayshi set off killed members of his family.

"As our troops approached to capture the terrorist, in a final act of desperate cowardice, with no regard for the lives of his own family or others in the building, he chose to blow himself up," Biden said at the White House.

A reporter on Air Force One asked Psaki if the US had evidence to back up the assertion that the ISIS leader detonated a suicide bomb, adding that some people might be skeptical of the US military's claims.

Psaki pushed back, questioning whether skeptics believed the US military was "not providing accurate information, and ISIS is providing accurate information."

The reporter, NPR White House Correspondent Ayesha Rascoe, replied, "The US has not always been straightforward about what happens with civilians. And, I mean, that is a fact."

Underscoring that the president prioritized "doing everything possible" to prevent civilian deaths, Psaki went on to say that the administration would give the military "time to make a final assessment" given the operation took place less than 24 hours ago.

Story continues

Biden in his remarks on the raid Thursday said that he ordered the use of special forces in the raid, as opposed to an air or drone strike, to reduce civilian casualties.

"We made a choice to pursue a special forces raid at a much greater risk to our own people rather than targeting him with an airstrike," Biden said. "We made this choice to minimize civilian casualties."

The US military has frequently faced criticism from top human rights groups over a lack of transparency surrounding civilian casualties from US operations, particularly airstrikes and drone strikes.

"In the past, the US has often refused to admit that the victims were civilians, even when confronted with detailed evidence from groups like Amnesty International and others demonstrating the victims' civilian status," Daphne Eviatar, Amnesty International USA's director of Security With Human Rights, told Insider in September following an August 29 drone strike that killed 10 civilians in Kabul, including seven children.

Top US generals in testimony to Congress said the military knew within hours of the August 29 strike that civilians had been killed, but the Pentagon did not fully acknowledge this to the public until weeks after.

The strike occurred because the military mistook an aid worker for an ISIS-K militant. The Pentagon's public acknowledgement of the civilian deaths came after reporting from the New York Times and Washington Post contradicted the military's initial narrative on the drone attack. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, had previously referred to it as a "righteous strike."

Congressional lawmakers have also rebuked the Pentagon on the issue. Dozens of Democrats sent a letter to Biden last month expressing concerns about drone strikes, calling out the US military for the "consistent underreporting" of civilian casualties in the process.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Channel Nine's ratings juggernaut Married at First Sight is showing no signs of slowing down.

The ninth season has averaged 1.2million viewers so far with streaming numbers incorporated.

The total audience for the premiere is now at 1.535million viewers.

Smash hit: Channel Nine's ratings juggernaut Married At First Sight is showing no signs of slowing down in the ratings

Married At First Sight is currently the No. 1 show on TV with people aged 25-54 and 16-39.

Despite the dating show's enduring popularity, season nine did premiere to the lowest numbers since season four in 2017.

Australia's Married At First Sight has also been a huge hit in the UK, where season six, starring Jessika Power and Jules Robinson, brought in 1.5million viewers an episode at its peak.

'Weve often compared it to a telenovela, in that its very addictive viewing,' executive producer Tara McWilliams told The Guardian.

Big deal! The ninth season has averaged 1.2million viewers so far with streaming numbers incorporated

'Its a bit of a mystery, in some ways, as to why people are so open and honest on such a public platform, but were very grateful they are,' she added.

Married At First Sight Australia is set to return to the UK later this month just weeks after the 2022 season premiered Down Under.

Karl Warner, Head of Youth and Digital at E4 said: 'Weve now caught up with the Australian broadcast schedule so we can be as close to the action as possible.

Love on top! Married At First Sight is currently the No. 1 show on TV with people aged 25-54 and 16-39

'Married at First Sight Australia is the show everyone was talking about in 2021 and Ive no doubt itll be just as addictive in 2022.'

Contestants Tamara Djordjevic, Selin Mengu and Domenica Calarco are three names fans won't be forgetting anytime soon.

The controversial trio, who are all fond of cosmetic procedures and aren't afraid of confrontation, look set to bring plenty of drama.

As for the grooms, Sydney hospitality guru Brent Vitiello, party boy Al Perkins and Mitch Eynaud will be stand-outs.
MUSCATINE  As winter continues to bring more snow and harsh weather, blood donations are more needed than ever.

ImpactLife released a statement this week asking for more blood donations following the severe winter storm that swept the Midwest, forcing many would-be donors to cancel their appointment.

It is estimated that this storm caused ImpactLife to lose over 200 donations of blood through a combination of these canceled appointments as well as the closure of some blood centers due to bad weather and the cancelling of mobile blood drives due to bad roads.

Our service region covers 125 hospitals across Iowa, Illinois and Missouri, and if youve looked at where the bigger storms have hit in the last day or so, a lot of it did effect several areas in our southern region, manager Kirby Winn said. So even though we (in the Quad Cities and Muscatine area) didnt get much snow, our operations were still impacted even though we didnt see it personally.

Winn added that although many blood centers opened later this week, these blood centers still have a daily schedule that was filled before the storm, making it harder for canceled donations and drives to be rescheduled for that same week.

We have to keep up with our calendar and our teams are already booked, or ideally they are, so it makes it hard to go back and recover those donations, he said.

Through this loss, many of ImpactLifes blood inventories have fallen, with most only a 1.5 days supply for nearly all blood types and platelets while other inventories only have a 3-day supply. This is in addition to the other lulls that many blood centers are experiencing at this time.

Throughout the pandemic, many of our mobile blood drives canceled and we lost quite a few of those events temporarily, Winn said. Now theres a mix where these drives are happening again, but only at about 70% of what we had before.

Still, with a consistently strong stream of daily and weekly donations, Winn said he felt confident that ImpactLife would be able to recoup supplies.

Winn expressed the importance of gaining first-time donors through drives, as they are just as important to blood centers as regular donors.

We need a mix, and this kind of circumstance that were in really highlights that need. The existing donor base cant do it all, he said.

At this time, all donors who register to give blood anytime on or before March 20, 2022, at any ImpactLife donor center or mobile blood drive will ether receive a voucher for a gift card or an ImpactLife Feelin Lucky t-shirt, just in time for St. Patricks Day.

To schedule an appointment, call 800-747-5401, go to www.bloodcenter.org, or use the ImpactLife mobile app. Those wishing to set up an in-center blood drive in Muscatine for their group can do so by calling 563-359-5401 or going online.
Former Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy is investing in the recently opened 3rd Street Market Hall after visiting it for a charity event in December, the food hall announced Thursday.

Prior to the food hall opening to the general public in January, Lucroy was one of about 300 people who attended a private event there to raise money for the Waukesha Community Foundation for the victims of the Waukesha holiday parade attack. Lucroy was married and his daughter was born in Waukesha.

I loved going back to Milwaukee in December and visiting 3rd Street Market Hall, Lucroy said in a news release. The United For Waukesha charity event they hosted reminded me of why I love this community. I want to help Milwaukee succeed and 3rd Street Market Hall seems like the perfect opportunity to do so.

During Lucroy's seven seasons with the Brewers, which wrapped in 2016, he was a two-time all-star. He led the majors with 53 doubles in 2014, tied for the most in one year in franchise history, according to a previous Journal Sentinel report. He ranks first in Brewers history as a catcher with 752 hits, a .288 batting average, 143 doubles, 77 home runs, 358 RBI and 326 runs scored.

Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy is swarmed by teammates after hitting the game-winning run during the 10th inning against the Colorado Rockies in the regular-season opener Monday, April 1, 2013 at Miller Park in Milwaukee, Wis.

While with the Brewers, Lucroy drove past the building 3rd Street Market hall is in but never went inside, he said at the charity event.

"I didn't even know this was even in here," Lucroy said. "I know this has obviously been redone, but I had no idea this was even here to begin with... this place is going to be special for sure."

Fellow Brewer Christian Yelich is already an investor in the business, and so is Green Bay Packer wide receiver Randall Cobb.

The food hall is located in The Avenue, a mix of retail space, offices and apartments that redeveloped the former Grand Avenue Mall. Yelich and retired Brewer Ryan Braun are among the redevelopment's investors.

The food hall's initial wave of vendors include Dairyland, Mid-Way and Amano Pan bakeries, Strega and Hot Dish Pantry. The hall also has a full bar, and activities, like Topgolf Swing Suite and shuffleboard. Other food vendors will open in the coming weeks, with a dozen or more open by April.

Story continues

Contact Hannah Kirby at hannah.kirby@jrn.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HannahHopeKirby.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Ex-Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy investing in Milwaukee food hall
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest analysis from BizVibe, a leading company insights platform, provides detailed insights for hundreds of photo book publishing companies and over 70,000 newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers worldwide. BizVibe's photo book publishing company insights highlight the strong influence that digital printing and a pandemic-driven rise in demand are expected to have in the coming years for market participants.

Get free insights for 100+ photo book publishers

Snapshot of key trend impacting BizVibe's photo book publishing industry group.

Publishing Industry Trend  Digital Printing

Digital printing is a key technology for photo book printing, as it allows small print runs to be cost-effective and enables companies to offer personalized or fully custom products. It is used by far more than just photo book publishers however, due to its flexibility and other benefits. Digital printing allows publishers of various materials to shorten the production cycle and produce cost-effective, high-quality products.

Usage of digital printing is expecting to rise over the next several years, and incorporate technology like AI and the internet of things (IoT). And with smaller print runs being more financially feasible through digital printing than offset printing, publishers don't have to invest as much money into producing and storing a large volume of products that may take a long time to sell. During the COVID-19 pandemic, with supply chain shortages and delays, minimizing costs where possible is a valuable strategy.

Key Industry Trend  Rising Demand Due to COVID-19

Early in the pandemic, custom photo book publishers were already seeing heightened demand from consumers similar to pre-Christmas levels. The temporary (or sometimes permanent) closure of brick-and-mortar photo processing businesses, combined with consumers having more free time due to lockdowns and restrictions, led to a greater number of people trying out online photo book services for the first time.

While many businesses have reopened at this point in the pandemic, the impact of this movement is expected to continue into future years, as customers who have tried online photo book publishing once are more likely to continue using it rather than return to previous ordering habits.

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Risk of doing business for all photo book publishing companies

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NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest analysis from BizVibe, a leading company insights platform, provides detailed insights for hundreds of sign leasing companies and thousands of commercial and industrial machinery and equipment rental companies worldwide. BizVibe's sign leasing company insights highlight the strong influence that the growing popularity of digital signage is expected to have in the coming years for market participants.

Get free insights for 100+ sign leasing companies

Snapshot of key trend impacting BizVibe's sign leasing industry group.

Key Industry Trend  Growth of the Digital Signage Industry

Digital signage is becoming an increasingly popular choice for businesses to use. Its flexibility and abundance of features can give it an advantage over printed or LED signs. The digital signage industry is expected to grow significantly over the next several years, driven in part by rapid technological advancements to improve quality, features, and price.

The growing popularity of digital signage means that sign leasing companies need to ensure that their offerings reflect the types of products customers are looking for. This may require budgeting more for maintenance and replacement costs as well.

Trend Geographic Relevance  High Relevance in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is expected to account for a substantial percentage of market growth over the next few years, with China being one of the key countries in the region. Digital signage manufacturers in Asia-Pacific are continually innovating, helping to drive market growth. North America is also a significant region in the global market, being one of the largest revenue generators in the digital signage industry.

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LAS CRUCES - A private ceremony rededicating a corridor of Interstate 10 the New Mexico State Police Officer Darian Jarrott Memorial Corridor will be held on Friday, February 4, 2022. Friday marks the first anniversary of the shooting that killed Officer Darian Jarrott.

In July of 2021, the New Mexico State Transportation Commission unanimously voted to officially name Interstate 10 from milepost 84.8 to 103.1 in Luna County the New Mexico State Police Officer Darian Jarrott Memorial Corridor.

Officer Jarrotts name will also grace the New Mexico State Police District 12 office in Deming remembering the sacrifice of Officer Jarrott. Officer Jarrott is gone but not forgotten, his memory will forever live on.

New Mexico State Police officer Darian Jarrott is seen in a NMSP photo. Jarrott was killed in the line of duty east of Deming on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021.

Officer Darian Jarrott is a true hero and stood for everything right in our community, said Tim Johnson, chief of the New Mexico State Police. His name and his selfless service will forever be memorialized along Interstate 10 and our district office.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said Jarrott was a valued member of his community and a dedicated public servant.

"His death was a truly devastating loss felt across the state," Lujan Grisham stated. "I am grateful to the community for their efforts to ensure his selfless service is memorialized for generations to come."

Memorial signage has been placed on I-10 on both the eastbound lanes just outside of Deming and the westbound lane just outside of Akela. Officer Jarrotts dedication will take place on Feb. 4, at 3000 E. Pine St. in Deming in the New Mexico State Police office parking lot at 10 a.m. Parking will be located in the NMDOT parking lot at 2912 E. Pine St.

This private ceremony will not be open to the public. The public may show their support by viewing the service via a live stream on the New Mexico State Police Facebook page.

Others are reading:

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: NMSP to honor Darian Jarrott on the anniversary of his death
NORMAL  After two days being closed due to the weather, Bloomington-Normal's college campuses plan to reopen Friday, including for in-person classes. Meanwhile, many area K-12 districts have opted for snow days or remote learning on Friday.

Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University both said on Thursday they would reopen on Friday. ISU had been closed Wednesday and Thursday, while IWU moved classes and most operations online.

Heartland Community College's Normal and Lincoln campuses will also reopen, but its Pontiac campus will remain closed on Friday. The SHIELD testing location at the Normal campus will also reopen.

ISU's reopening includes campus COVID testing facilities. Campus parking garages will be open through Monday morning to help lighten use of surface lots, which have snow piles on them.

Parking updates can be found at parking.illinoisstate.edu.

Most school districts in McLean County have already called for either remote learning or snow days on Friday. Those with snow days on Friday include ISU Laboratory Schools. Lincoln College will also be closed Friday.

Other K-12 schools that have announced plans as of 3 p.m. Thursday include:

District 87 will have a snow day

Unit 5 will be on remote learning

Central Catholic will have a snow day

Olympia schools will have a snow day

Heyworth schools will be on remote learning

LeRoy schools will be on remote learning

Tri-Valley schools will be on remote learning

Ridgeview schools will have a snow day.

Lexington school will be on remote learning.
Lawmakers sparred with one another and President Joe Bidens Federal Reserve nominees in a sometimes contentious Senate Banking Committee hearing Thursday morning.

Biden has an unusual chance to nominate three members to the central banks policymaking Board of Governors as the result of an unfilled vacancy during Donald Trump's presidency. Biden has said he wants to increase diversity at the Fed, and his trio of nominees includes two women and two Black nominees.

Sarah Bloom Raskin, a former Fed governor and deputy treasury secretary during the Obama administration, is the nominee for vice chair for supervision  the Feds highest-profile enforcement position.

The two other nominees are Philip Jefferson, the chief academic officer at Davidson College in North Carolina and a former research economist at the Federal Reserve Board, and Lisa Cook, an economics and international relations professor at Michigan State University. Cook was elected this year to the board of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. If she is confirmed, she would be the first Black woman on the Feds Board of Governors.

Dr. Lisa DeNell Cook, of Michigan, nominated to be a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, speaks at a confirmation hearing on Feb. 3, 2022. (Ken Cedeno / Pool via Reuters)

The main point of contention was Raskins progressive leanings with regard to climate change.

"I dont think she necessarily lost any supporters ... but Im not sure she actually got any converts, either, said Brandon Barford, a partner at Beacon Policy Advisors.

The committee's ranking member, Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, and other Republican senators referred to a May 2020 opinion piece in which Raskin criticized emergency Fed programs implemented in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic to backstop businesses when the economy abruptly shut down. The New York Times column ran with a title and a subhead that read: Why Is the Fed Spending So Much Money on a Dying Industry? It should not be directing money to further entrench the carbon economy.

In the column, Raskin said the Feds emergency lending programs should have been off-limits to fossil fuel companies, writing, Even in the short term, fossil fuels are a terrible investment.

Story continues

Toomey charged in his opening statement that Raskin seeks to expand the Feds dual mandate in a way that would distort financial markets and harm the economy.

Raskin has said the quiet part out loud, he said.

Raskin said her viewpoint on the role of banking regulations and climate policy was taken out of context, and she labored to draw a distinction between emergency pandemic capital funding and everyday banking regulation.

Karen Shaw Petrou, the managing partner of the consulting firm Federal Financial Analytics, said, She is going to need every Democrat. While Raskin has been confirmed to previous government roles on a bipartisan basis, Petrou said, the stakes are higher this time around.

In those positions, she was less important, and you didnt have the third rail of climate change with the kind of constituent and ideological interests that were in evidence today, she said.

Despite the criticisms, experts said it was unlikely that Raskins appointment would be blocked. In such a closely divided chamber, Barford said, Raskins testimony could be chalked up as a win. Its a good hearing when you maintain your base of support and you dont close any new doors, he said.

While Democrats hold a razor-thin margin in the evenly divided Senate, the financial services industry has expressed, if not full-throated, at least solid support for Raskin. Both the American Bankers Association and the Financial Services Forum issued statements in support of her nomination.

For Raskin, it will be at least slightly bipartisan, Barford said. The financial services community, particularly the trade groups and veteran lobbyists  they didnt mobilize against her.

While Raskin was the primary focus among committee members on both sides of the aisle, Jefferson and Cook also faced scrutiny. Experts said both are expected to be confirmed on a bipartisan basis, although Cook faced sharper questions.

I think Philip Jefferson is a shoo-in  he will be confirmed quite easily, Petrou said.

Image: Senate Banking Committee Considers Federal Reserve Nominees (Ken Cedeno / Pool via Getty Images)

Cook has been criticized on the right for being outspoken about advocating for progressive politicians and positions on social media. I think Cook will have some defections, because theres been some questions about her use of social media to advocate for progressive causes. Thats always controversial, Barford said.

Some GOP lawmakers also were critical of Cooks academic background and professional credentials. Committee member Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., said Cook was fundamentally not qualified in a Fox Business interview. Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., said at the hearing that Cook didnt have the relevant experience, and he also cast doubt on the veracity of her credentials, citing unspecified mischaracterizations.

Barford dismissed the criticisms, pointing out that Jerome Powell  the current Fed chair, who has been nominated by presidents of both parties  wasnt an economist by trade.

The number of people on the board recently who have not been monetary Ph.D. economists has been growing, he said, saying it was pretty absurd to hold Cook to a standard that even the head of the central bank wouldnt meet.

The Fed has a long history of being consensus-driven, apolitical and deliberate. Even with an influx of new voices  and opinions  that commitment is unlikely to be shaken, experts said.

I dont think youll see Sarah Bloom Raskin trying to break up the banks or fundamentally restructure them, Petrou said.

Barford said: She managed to get the right organizations to either hold their criticism and or endorse her nomination, and I think thats a key attribute to be able to successfully navigate this sort of process. To still have bank trade groups not vociferously throwing bombs at her nomination is an impressive feat.
Alessandra Ambrosio showcased her sun-tanned skin while modeling a skimpy bikini in an Instagram post on Wednesday.

The model, 40, wore a tight top which accentuated her ample bosom.

Her pouty lips were slightly open with her long hair falling far past her shoulders in the snap promoting her brand Gal Floripa's newest collection.

Stylish look: Alessandra Ambrosio showcased her sun-tanned skin while modeling a skimpy bikini in an Instagram post on Wednesday

Ambrosio leaned against a rock which sat on the shore and waves crashed behind her as she posed.

She captioned the photo, 'Today we celebrate Yemanja, Mother & Queen of the Seas and GAL anniversary In honor of this day we are happy to introduce our new #FLOURISHcollection. Hope you enjoy!'

Gal Floripa was founded by Ambrosio with Gisele Coria and Aline Ambrosio to create the lifestyle brand.

They sell two-piece and one-piece bathing suits, some of which cost as much as $180.

Pushing a new collection: Ambrosio posted a picture to promote the newest collection made by her lifestyle brand (pictured 2019 with ex Nicolo Oddi)

Recent reunion: The new collection came just weeks after Alessandra returned to Los Angeles from her native Brazil where she spent the holidays (pictured with Richard Lee 2021)

The new collection came just weeks after Alessandra returned to Los Angeles from her native Brazil where she spent the holidays.

Her model boyfriend Richard Lee joined her for some time and they reunited after not seeing each other for more than a week when she returned last month.

Alessandra confirmed her romance with Richard when they were spotted on a romantic dinner date in February 2021.

Over a year together: Alessandra confirmed her romance with Richard when they were spotted on a romantic dinner date in February 2021 (pictured 2021)

Together before: She was previously involved with Italian fashion designer Nicolo Oddi who founded the brand Alanui with his sister Carlotta (pictured 2019)

She was previously involved with Italian fashion designer Nicolo Oddi who founded the brand Alanui with his sister Carlotta.

The star sparked speculation she and Nicolo were no more after two years of dating as she rang in Christmas and New Years without him in 2020.

Alessandra shares her two children Anja, 13, and Noah, nine, with her ex-fiance Jamie Mazur who co-founded RE/DONE.
Elections staff process vote-by-mail ballots through scanning machines that read voters choices for the general election Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020, in the basement of the Yakima County Courthouse in Yakima, Wash.
Digital product development and data company Kablamo launches in Canada following the demand for its financial expertise.

The Waterloo region is widely considered one of the fastest, if not, the fastest growing tech hubs in North America. Its the right fit for our culture and we believe well be bringing fresh learnings around digital product development, DevOps and agile while simultaneously being exposed to different approaches that work in this geography, says Kablamo founder and co-CEO Allan Waddell.

Kablamo develops cloud native digital products and intelligent data platforms across fintech, media, and emergency services. It has launched a bank, expanded an online mortgage brokers AWS capabilities and addressed its skills gap, and modernised National Broadcasters archives with content that has been processed or downloaded more than two billion times.

Canadian firms are looking for similar responses to their needs and challenges, says Kablamo Canada lead Tobias Dyhrberg.

The decision to launch in Canada is testament to the technology industry in Ontario and the strong demand for the kind of AI, cloud native software development and data management solutions that the team develops.

Kablamo will hire Canadians while working with engineers based in Australia. According to Dyhrberg, this approach will take advantage of Canadas strong tech culture.

We build beautiful end-to-end products with cross-functional teams, says Dyhrberg.

Were focused on doing agile product development in the enterprise, and tackle enterprise challenges with our own designers and our own engineers. This approach is relatively rare for enterprise customers and we have seen a strong demand for it in Canada.

Dyhrberg says enterprises and government organisations are not only seeking new digital products but a competent workforce since finding tech talent is difficult in a constrained market.

Weve got a track record of cultivating a digitally native culture in companies that dont historically have that. The way our designers and engineers interact and work alongside our customers makes an impact long after weve completed the project and left, Dyhrberg says.

We hire based on culture. We know when we go out to customers our difference has been our ability to share our culture and get teams engaged and curious, Waddell concludes.
Orange bags of Hawaiian rolls are the first thing that greet me at my local grocer, so its no surprise that sliders are regulars on my meal plan. This week Im serving a classic: ham and cheese sliders.

These sliders have it all: sweet slices of ham, irresistibly gooey Swiss cheese, squishy Hawaiian rolls, and a savory butter drizzled over top. In addition to dinner, theyre perfect for lunch boxes, game-day spreads, picnics, and parties (meaning, you can enjoy them as often as you please).

A Brush With Butter

After the soft Hawaiian rolls are split and layered with deli ham and gooey Swiss cheese, youll brush them with a savory flavored butter, then top with a shower of poppy seeds.

This mixture of melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and kosher salt adds savoriness to the sliders, perfectly complementing the salty-sweet flavors of the ham and cheese.

Bake Time

These sliders need about 28 minutes in the oven, but how you bake the sliders is just as important as the time. Youll start by covering the dish with foil and baking for 20 minutes, which gives the sandwiches time to heat through to the center while preventing the bread from browning too quickly. Remove the foil and continue to bake until the tops of the Hawaiian rolls brown and the cheese melts.

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Makes 12 sliders

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 (12-ounce) package Hawaiian sweet rolls, such as Kings

12 slices Swiss cheese (about 7 ounces), divided

12 thin slices deli ham (about 10 ounces)

1 teaspoon poppy seeds

Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Place the butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted, 20 to 30 seconds. (Alternatively, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.) Add the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and kosher salt, and whisk to combine.

Without separating the rolls, cut the Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls in half horizontally with a serrated knife. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a 9-by-13-inch or 7-by-11-inch baking dish.

Arrange 6 slices of the Swiss cheese on the rolls, overlapping the slices as needed to completely cover. Fold and arrange the ham over the cheese, arranging a slice on each roll. Layer the remaining 6 slices Swiss cheese over the ham. Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese.

Brush the butter onto the top of the rolls, then sprinkle with the poppy seeds. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake until the sandwich is heated through and the cheese melts, about 20 minutes. Uncover and bake until the rolls are lightly browned, 7 to 8 minutes. Transfer the slab to a cutting board, then cut into individual sliders with a serrated knife before serving.

Recipe Notes

The sandwiches can be assembled and the butter mixture prepared up to one day in advance and refrigerated separately. Melt the butter again before using, 30 to 35 seconds in the microwave.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
(Posted Feb. 2, 2022)

By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor

Mount Sterling village council has a new president pro tem and some new faces as 2022 kicks into gear.

At a special meeting on Jan. 4, council accepted the resignation of council member Jay Pettey who resigned for personal reasons. At a special meeting on Jan. 19, council appointed Joyce Phillips to fill Petteys term which expires on Dec. 31, 2023.

Council elected a new president pro tem at its first regular meeting of the year, held on Jan. 24. Pettey previously held the position. Prior to the vote, Stephen Smith, the villages attorney, explained the rules for electing a president pro tem. First, the floor is opened to nominations. Anyone on council can nominate themselves or anyone else on council. Then, council votes on the nominees in the order they were nominated. The first nominee to receive four votes is named president pro tem.

Two council members were nominated for the position. Bill Tilley, a newly elected council member, nominated Andy Drake. Phillips seconded the nomination. Rob Longcoy, another newly elected council member, nominated Becky Martin. Martin seconded the nomination. Drake was first up for votes and received the four votes needed to win the position. Tilley, Phillips, Timmons and Drake cast the four yes votes. Longcoy and Martin cast the two no votes.

In other business at the Jan. 24 meeting:

 Misty Vance, utilities clerk, reported $13,000 in delinquent utility payments from residents. That number is higher than normal, she said. She and Courtney Bricker, fiscal officer, reminded residents that the county offers financial assistance with utility bill payments. Vance said individuals who call the county often find out quickly if they are eligible for the assistance. There is a waiting list, though, and it does take a while to receive the money.

But, what a weight off your shoulders if you owe something, Vance said.

Anyone who has questions about their utility bills or would like information about payment assistance can call village hall, (740) 869-2040.

 Bricker provided an update on the AEP project planned for Mason Park. As part of improvements it is making across several counties, AEP plans to install a 90-foot utility pole at the park. The company estimates the work at Mason Park will take place in the summer of 2023.

 A year-end report showed that the building and zoning department handled 31 residential permits, five commercial permits, one right-of-way permit, 24 zoning permits, and 10 variance cases in 2021. They also regularly field calls regarding development and zoning in the village.

 Council reappointed Larry Scott and Deanna Stevens to the planning and zoning committee.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

COUTTS, Alta.  Gurdeep Chumbur says he sympathizes with fellow truckers concerned about cross-border COVID-19 vaccine mandates who have taken drastic action to make their views known.

But he was relieved Thursday when a second illegal blockade on a highway leading to the main border crossing in southern Alberta opened to traffic and RCMP ushered through some trucks heading to the United States.

It feels great, yeah, because I need to work. Ive got bills to pay, said Chumbur, after getting the green light from police to proceed down Highway 4 to the crossing at Coutts, Alta.

A truck convoy of anti-COVID-19 vaccine mandate demonstrators continues to block the highway at the busy U.S. border crossing in Coutts, Alta., Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

I understand, you guys are protesting, thats great. Just stick to a side and let us go for it.

Chumbur said he was stuck in Montana for four days last weekend and eventually rerouted to the Roosville crossing in British Columbia before heading back to Calgary for another load. He was next on his way to Utah.

Theres no hard feelings. Im with them. I understand, but unfortunately, I cant stand and protest, Chumbur said.

Demonstrators started the main blockade at Coutts on Saturday in solidarity with similar events in Ottawa and countrywide to protest vaccine mandates and broader public health measures.

The impasse stranded travellers and cross-border truckers, compromised millions of dollars in trade and impeded access to basic goods and medical services for area residents

On Tuesday, some demonstrators left that main blockade after Mounties announced negotiations to end the standoff had failed and they were prepared to make arrests and tow vehicles. However, other vehicles, including tractors, breached a police barrier and joined the stoppage.

Protesters at the blockade agreed Wednesday to open a lane on each side of the highway.

Early Thursday, the RCMP warned there was a second blockade of protesters north of Coutts, closer to the town of Milk River, and asked the public to avoid the area.

Hundreds of vehicles, including trucks, tractors and cars, had blocked the road there in solidarity with the main blockade.

Later in the day, traffic was allowed through and many sounded horns as they headed down the highway.

Officers stopped and checked with truckers to make sure they were making deliveries across the border and with area residents trying to get home.

Vehicles then weaved slowly through a narrow phalanx lined by protesters parked along the highway.

RCMP Cpl. Curtis Peters said the situation is anything but ideal.

Its very slow moving and we have to be very cautious, he said.

A semi truck is allowed through a blockade of demonstrators on a highway near Milk River, Alta., Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

There has been conflicts flare up here. Weve had people just trying to get through, whove had some confrontations with protesters.

The fact that were allowing traffic to flow through is a positive step in the right direction but its still an unlawful protest.

More protesters arrived at the site during the day. Some tractors and SUVs parked in a ditch. Two people showed up on horses and there an impromptu stage was set up for singing and a prayer service.

Ryan Kenney said he drove down Wednesday to participate in the latest blockade.

Slept here overnight and Im planning to stay until I have to. Ill be here for days, he said.

Im here to support the protest against mandates. They need to negotiate with the truckers down at the border.

Sean Alexander of Calgary was also part of the protest.

Weve got truckers down here, you got farmers down here  youve got oil and gas workers down here, he said. Eighty guys maybe slept on the highway last night.

None of us are getting paid.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 3, 2022.
A 77-year-old man, Daniel Akwetey Awulley, has been shot dead by unknown assailants in his room at Miotso in Ningo-Prampram District in the early hours of Wednesday.

Chief Inspector Stella Dede Dzakpasu, the Public Relations Officer, Tema Police Regional Command, confirming the incident to the Ghana News Agency, said the deceased was found in his bedroom with gunshot wounds on his chest and thighs.

She said the Prampram Police Patrol team on Tuesday, February 2, at about 0210 hours while on night duty patrols, accosted two gentlemen, who, upon interrogation, informed the police that their father had been shot dead at his residence in Miotso.

The patrol team accompanied them to the father's residence and found that the main door to the two-bedroom house had been broken with a six-inch block, which the assailants possibly might have used to gain entry into the building.

Chief Inspector Dzakpasu said the body of the deceased had since been deposited at the Tema General Hospital Morgue for preservation and autopsy while personnel from the Homicide Unit, CID Headquarters, and Tema Regional CID, had visited the scene and launched investigations into the incident.

She appealed to the public to volunteer information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of the heinous crime.

GNA
One of Editor & Publishers 10 That Do It Right 2021
TINLEY PARK  Fourteen years after five women were slain inside a Lane Bryant store in Tinley Park, police say fresh eyes on the case may help in yielding critical clues needed to solve it.

Two new detectives with the department were assigned in December to the case and they're reexamining the evidence collected since the Feb. 2, 2008, shooting deaths at the Brookside Marketplace store southwest of Harlem Avenue and Interstate 80.

Killed that day were 42-year-old store manager Rhoda McFarland of Joliet; Jennifer Bishop, 34, of South Bend, Indiana; Sarah Szafranski, 22, of Oak Forest; Connie Woolfolk, 37, of Flossmoor; and Carrie Hudek Chiuso, 33, of Frankfort.

A sixth woman, also a store employee, was shot in the neck but survived and provided police with a description of the killer.

Since the slayings, police said they have processed some 7,500 leads.

The department has a tip line for the investigation, 708-444-5394, and an email address, lanebryant.tipline@tinleypark.org.

Ray Violetto, who had been lead investigator, retired last November. Tim Poulos, who worked alongside Violetto, came off the case last October when he was promoted to commander of the department's patrol division.

Replacing Violetto and Poulos in the department's investigation are detectives Jeff Graves and Roger Davisson.

"They are hard chargers," Poulos said. "They are taking a look at it from Day 1."

Despite the passing of years, Poulos said he firmly believes the case will be solved.

"We are waiting for that tip to come in, that lead," he said. "I remain confident after 14 years, praying and hoping that day comes. We have hope this is going to come to a resolution some day."

Bringing 'fresh eyes'

Police Chief Matt Walsh said the detectives taking over bring "fresh eyes" to the investigation. One room in the department's headquarters is devoted to the case, with photos of the victims posted on a wall and several filing cabinets filled with reports and other paperwork the detectives are converting to digital form to make it easier to review.

"Maybe there was something we missed initially," Walsh said.

Larry Rafferty, the department's deputy chief, noted that in the beginning, with assistance of South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force, there were about 50 detectives working the case.

"Those leads were coming in fast and furious," Rafferty said, adding that the new detectives might spot something.

"I have faith in them, I really do," Rafferty said. "It's an arduous task, it really is."

Each year, as it gets close to the anniversary of the slayings, tips "start ticking up" to the department, Poulos said.

Some tips, investigators know, are not likely to result in a solid lead, such as someone who sees somebody in a store who might resemble the killer.

"We weigh those things out," Rafferty said. "There has to be some value to the tip."

Still, he said, police don't just dismiss out of hand something that might at first seem a dead end in the investigation.

"You never know what's going to crack it," he said.

Still standing and unclaimed is a $100,000 reward, much of it put up by the parent company of Lane Bryant, that was hoped to pry loose key information that would lead to an arrest and conviction.

Rafferty said he is surprised the lure of the reward hasn't prompted someone who has solid information to step forward.

"I find it very difficult to believe one person did this and didn't talk to somebody about it," he said.

Police were nearby

Shortly after 10 a.m. on the day of the shootings, which was a Saturday, an African American man about 6-foot to 6-foot-2, with a husky build and broad shoulders, came into the store posing as a delivery man, according to police.

Based on the description by the surviving woman, police said he had three to five "puffy" corn rows running from the back of his head to the front, with one strand with green beads hanging over his right cheek.

Four women, including McFarland and the other surviving employee, were in the store at the time. The man pulled out a .40-caliber Glock pistol, told them he was robbing the store, then herded the women into a backroom, where they were bound with duct tape and ordered to lay facedown on the floor, according to police. Two other women who came into the store also were similarly restrained.

McFarland managed to call 911 on her cellphone, whispering her location to an operator, who told her to stay on the line. McFarland pleaded "hurry" before the connection was lost. An edited version of the 911 call is at the police department's website.

The call was first received by the Will County sheriff's office and immediately transferred to Tinley Park, which took the call at 10:44 a.m., according to authorities. A Tinley Park police officer was on a call in Brookside Marketplace, in the parking lot of Super Target a few hundred yards away, and was on the scene within a minute, but the gunman had already fled.

Police said they know, by the survivor's account, that the man was in the store for 40 minutes and suspect the women's deaths were the result of a botched robbery.

Police had previously said their investigation didn't uncover any evidence to suggest that any of the women knew their assailant.

Poulos said that, over the years, he and Violetto visited many jails and prisons, talking to inmates who claimed to have solid information on the case in hopes it would get their sentence reduced.

In some cases it meant a face-to-face visit with an inmate, but in others it was a simple matter of looking up records and seeing that someone was in prison at the time of the crime and likely lacked firsthand knowledge, Poulos said.

"They never panned out," Poulos said of jail visits.

Rafferty said that as years have passed, Tinley Park hasn't scaled back its commitment to supplying the financial resources the department needs to continue the investigation.

"Tinley Park has spent a ton of money on this case, Rafferty said. "(Village officials) have never stopped providing the money to do what needs to be done."

Rafferty said that as testing advances, that could shed new light on physical evidence collected in the case.

"We are still exploring everything," he said.
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While Trumps border wall has yet to be completed, the threat it poses to pollinators is already felt, according to the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas, as reported by Transmission & Distribution World.

Earlier this year, EcoWatch reported that construction equipment showed up around the center, ready to bulldoze more than 70 percent of the butterfly sanctuarys 100 acres, which more than 200 species of butterflies call home.

The National Butterfly Center is not only home to butterflies but also to various species of bees, including some only found around the Rio Grande in southern Texas and northern Mexico. A team of wildlife photographers and scientists documented the wild bees found in the butterfly center that will be displaced if the border wall is constructed. They photographed some species that have never been seen before in the U.S. Many of these bees range no more than a few hundred yards from their nests in a lifetime, and so the National Butterfly Center is the only home theyve ever known, said Paula Sharp, a lead photographer on the project, to the Revelator. She noted that the butterfly center is safe zone for pollinators since it is ecologically pristine  that is, it is free from pesticides, erosion, invasive species and habitat destruction, which is found in nearby areas of the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Bees are central to every habitat because they are the pollinators that sustain the plants that feed birds, mammals and other creatures, Sharp said, according to the Revelator. If you destroy the bees, you do irreparable harm to the environment. EcoWatch reported earlier this year that the butterfly centers fate was sealed in December when the Supreme Court declined to hear a case brought by the Center for Biological Diversity, the Animal Legal Defense Fund and Defenders of Wildlife to appeal a federal court decision that the Trump administration can waive 28 environmental laws including the Endangered Species Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, in order to build 33 more miles of wall, including the section that runs through the refuge.
The Paris New York Heritage Festival - an international festival offering a journey to the heart of Africa and the African Diaspora's art and music - returns to Constitution Hill, Johannesburg for its second edition from Friday, 5 March to Saturday, 5 March 2022.

Source: Supplied



The cultural expressions of African and diasporic communities share a common foundation, a fight for the recognition of their Humanity and the importance of acknowledging their role in its history.

This year, the festival will explore humanity's future under the theme of Human[U]nity - after the global pandemic hit during the peak of climate discussions all around the globe, Humanity must now figure out how to survive, together, as one!

Concerts, discussions and more

The two-day festival will feature a unique line-up of local and international artists. The local artists include The Brother Moves On, Msaki, Gontse Makhene, Malcolm Jiyane and students from the 'Morris Isaacson Center for Music.

International artists who will make an appearance at the festival include Aloe Blacc, Nicola Conte, Djeuhdjoah and Lieutenant Nicholson, Bholoja and Raashan Ahmad, who will be performing for the first time in South Africa.

The Locrate Market - Sowetos famous market will present 15 stalls with delicious food and local arts and crafts for a day of fun and culture.

In addition to the music and local market, the festival will also feature a series of public conversations and exchanges exploring the theme of Human[U]nity facilitated by Kaya959s Nicky Blumenfeld. Guest speakers will include Benjamin Levy (festival director, promoter and educator), Azah (master percussionist and music therapist) and others.

The Freedom Songs Project

In South Africa, struggle songs have played a major political role and Hugh Masekela once described the countrys journey to liberation as a musical revolution. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, artists are once again using their voices to express the sentiments of the people and/or encourage hope, resilience and healing.

The Freedom Songs Project is an interactive live collaborative performance, curated specifically for the festival, making a musical moment in history and igniting a way forward. During this history-making event, artists will honor the South African

musical revolution tradition.

The Brother Moves On, an eclectic, barrier-breaking musical art ensemble from Johannesburg, will perform as the backdrop for guest appearances from acclaimed artists. Musically directed by Siyabonga Mthembu and Mthunzi Mvubu, this performance will also feature Msaki, Raashan Ahmad, Gontse Makhene, Malcolm Jiyane, Bholoja, students from the Morris Isaacson Centre for Music and many others.

Tickets to the The Paris New York Heritage Festival are available for purchase on the Howler ticketing platform.
The Azerbaijani side has not given any substantial response to Armenia's proposals and has rejected them, the spokesman of Armenian Foreign Minister Vahan Hunanyan informed Armenpress.

He commented on Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov's statements that the Armenian side put forward preconditions, stressing that Armenia has no legal, political or moral right to put any conditions on border demarcation.

"The Prime Minister of Armenia, the President of Russia and the President of Azerbaijan signed a statement in Sochi on November 26, 2021, which is public and available on the Internet. This statement clearly states that the leaders of the three countries have agreed to take steps to improve stability and security on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border and to work towards the creation of a bilateral Commission on the delimitation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani state border, followed by its demarcation.

It follows from the statement signed by the three leaders that the delimitation and demarcation commission should be preceded by agreements on steps to improve security on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border and their implementation. This is also logical because it is difficult to imagine demarcation work on a border where ceasefire violations occur every day. The Republic of Armenia, being interested in the full implementation of the agreements, has formulated its ideas on their implementation.

The Azerbaijani side did not give any meaningful response, but rejected them, instead offering options for the implementation of the agreements of the leaders of the three countries. Calling Armenian proposals a "precondition," and then giving them moral, political and legal assessments has nothing to do with the aforementioned process," Hunanyan said.

The Republic of Armenia reaffirms its commitment to the agreements reached, which has been repeatedly stated publicly by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia. We should also note that Armenia has also submitted proposals to the Azerbaijani side on the opening of roads. As of today no response has been received from the Azerbaijani side to these proposals. Armenia is ready to start implementing those proposals as soon as possible," the spokesman concluded.
Thomas de Waal: More storm clouds gather over Armenia, Azerbaijan

Armenia FM to Jordan counterpart and deputy PM: Maximalist policy of Azerbaijan needs to be restrained

Armenia parliament speaker calls on all international colleagues to condemn Azerbaijan military aggression

Armenia former deputy PM Tigran Avinyan is appointed Yerevan Deputy Mayor

Yerevan market explosion criminal proceedings: 1 of 3 arrested accused is released

Yerevan city council holding special session, appointing ex-deputy PM Tigran Avinyan as deputy mayor is on agenda

Fly Arna receives its second Airbus A320 aircraft

Armenia defense ministry dismisses Azerbaijan MOD statement disseminated a while ago

MOD: Azerbaijan army fires at Armenia combat positions, at around 7:40am

Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan stalls repatriation of Armenian POWs

Newspaper: Armenia PM, parliament majority faction have closed discussion day after military operations

PM Pashinyan at UN, addresses Azerbaijan president: Could you show map of Armenia that you recognize?

PM Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan intends to seize new territories from Armenia

Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

FM addresses at Ancient Civilizations Forum: Armenian cultural heritage is being destroyed by Azerbaijan

NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

PM: Georgia ready to become venue for Armenia-Azerbaijan dialogue

Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

Bloomberg: UK intends to sign agreement on LNG supplies from U.S. for up to 20 years

China's former justice minister sentenced to death

Jermuk: Changes in Jermuk resort town after Azerbaijani attack (photo report)

Jermuk-Yerevan-Jermuk shuttle service already operating

Armenian Genocide Memorials Memory Ally area to be expanded

Biden to Pashinyan: We remain committed to promote peaceful resolution to conflict, including for people of Karabakh

Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

Aggression-affected IDPs from Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor to be provided with financial assistance

Peskov declines to comment on his son's refusal to report to military registration and enlistment office

Belgian parliamentary delegation visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

Peskov comments on reports of agitation at airports and checkpoints

Russia air carrier to conduct additional flights to Armenia, Turkey

Kazakhstan parliament passes law to exclude Day of First President from state holidays

US Congressman Schiff: These atrocities will continue until international community condemns Aliyev

Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

Senator: the U.S. must stop providing security assistance to Azerbaijan

Armenia, Finland FMs discuss Karabakh conflict settlement process

CSTO Secretary General, Armenia army chief discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

Armenia FM to Red Cross president: Azerbaijan crimes impunity makes aggressor more reckless (PHOTOS)

Greece politician condemns Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

Iran, Russia and China to hold joint naval drills

Iran army chief: We will not allow changes in borders in region

Parliament speaker: We expect our Belgian colleagues to continue efforts for Armenian POWs return from Azerbaijan

Karabakh FM discusses Artsakh foreign policy with group of US Congress members, senators

Relatives of those who died and those who were injured in Yerevan market explosion to get one-time financial aid

Copper rises in price

Truss says Russia is not threatened by anyone

Crime report is sent to Armenia Prosecutor General regarding recent harassment toward reporters in parliament

Armenia FM to International Crisis Group head: Azerbaijan trying to achieve its maximalist demands by using force

Gold prices fall below $1670 per ounce

Borrell announces new sanctions on Russia because of referendums

Oil prices move to some growth

Blinken says US will continue to support Ukraine

Newspaper: Armenia 3 ex-presidents, Catholicos to meet soon

Armenia FM in New York, meets with UN Secretary General special adviser on genocide prevention

Russian soldiers are exchanged with 215 Ukrainian POWs

Newspaper: PM urges political teammates not to do anything drastic regarding topic of Armenia leaving CSTO

Bulgaria gets closer to buying the second batch of eight new F-16s

Armenia FM to Sweden counterpart: International community must restrain Azerbaijan military aggression

FM briefs Nicaragua colleague on consequences of Azerbaijan military aggression against Armenia

2 of 3 injured in Yerevan market damaged building collapse discharged from hospital

Britain decides to revise its defense and security plan

Iranian parliament says border violation due to aggravation between Armenia and Azerbaijan unacceptable
This is going to be a challenging time, and we encourage our customers to be flexible if the products they would usually buy are not available. Metcash Group chief executive Jeff Adams said the company was working closely with government, suppliers and retailers to keep IGA stores in WA stocked. Metcash and our retailers have a very good local supplier base in WA, he said. This means that our retailers are able to source much of their produce locally, including all of their milk as well as the majority of their meat. We also have contingency plans in place which include holding additional stock, and being ready to move as much stock as possible onto roads in the event of a rail outage.

Unprecedented disruption cuts off WA supply chain Over east, staff shortages due to COVID absenteeism have hit every part of the food supply chain from farmers, food processors and the transport sector to distribution centres and stores, with the end result being fewer products available for customers. Australian Rail Track Corporation corporate affairs manager Anthony Meere said 18 sites stretching over 300 kilometres had been affected by flooding and expected the track would remain closed for at least 12 days. He said an update on timeframes for recovery would be provided later this week. We havent put a date on it but all of the track is accessible now and our crews are working as quickly as possible to rectify the damage, he said.

The severing of the network prompted Transport Minister Rita Saffioti to hold a crisis meeting with the Freight and Logistics Council on Tuesday to develop a three-pronged approach to expediting freight into WA. Loading A land bridge is a priority, with hopes it will be up and running by the end of the week. Other options include allowing double road trains into Perth via Greenmount Hills, and loading goods onto ships at ports in Sydney and Melbourne. It is an extraordinary event and the impact is a lot bigger than it ever has been in the past, Ms Saffioti said.

But she warned these options would take time to come to fruition and people should only buy what they needed. It is a massive logistical exercise, she said. Shipping hasnt quite been locked away but those triple road trains will increase the capacity of trucks by about 50 per cent. Western Roads chief executive Cam Dumesny said the announcement was a great start, but more will need to be done to combat the unprecedented supply disruption. Not only do we have rail out to get product into WA, we are also 60 to 70 per cent down on air freight because we are not getting passenger flights into the state so that all has to be transported via road, he said.

We already had supply chain disruption globally due to the pandemic, then staff shortages on the east coast and now weather-related impacts. People in the Kimberley and remote communities are used to this and Perth people will just have to live the experience. Mr Dumesny said recent weather and bushfires had exposed the harsh reality of how vulnerable our states supply chain is. In 2020, the only sealed road linking WA and South Australia was closed for 12 days because of bushfires. The closure of the Eyre Highway left hundreds of truck drivers trapped on both sides of the border.

Coles and Woolworths used other transport options including rail to bring in products and minimise the impact on supermarket shelves. But the recent flooding has knocked out both road and rail. Weve got to sit back and have a look at how we make our supply chain more resilient because we are very vulnerable to climate impacts, Mr Dumesny said. Ms Saffioti said discussions were under way to seal the 2700-kilometre Outback Way, a transcontinental highway running from Laverton in WA through Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, and on to Boulia and Winton in Queensland. Main Roads is also working with the Northern Territory and the Shire of Halls Creek to upgrade and seal the 311-kilometre WA section of the Tanami Road, another possible east-west freight link.

Extreme weather means challenges set to rise Loading Pandemic aside, a Department of Water and Environmental Regulation report released on Tuesday predicts more supply chain disruptions could be cards with the number of extreme weather events and bushfires tipped to rise as climate change ramps up. It follows a stark warning in August 2021 from the worlds leading climate scientists that some changes are now considered inevitable and irreversible. Australia remains a notable hotspot.
As another Australian family revealed the heartbreak their long separation has caused, a Perth-based intensive care doctor has grilled West Australian Premier Mark McGowan on the mental and social impacts of his border stance.

New travel exemptions are meant to reduce the impact of the decision to keep borders closed, but they are unable to help NSW father Michael Hurn, worried about his daughter Lauren, who he has not seen in three years.

Lauren with her parents Michael and Helen Hurn. They have not seen each other in over three years.

Im on a pension, my wife and I cant afford to go into hotel quarantine for two weeks and we cant quarantine with our daughter because she is a healthcare worker and cant take time off to quarantine with us, he said.

Like all healthcare workers, she is just about burnt out. It has been a concern for both my wife Helen and I, her mental health.
Loading State Health Minister Martin Foley announced on Friday that elective surgery at private hospitals and day procedure centres would resume at capped capacity from Monday, providing the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalisations did not dramatically escalate in coming days. There are 707 people in Victorian hospitals with the virus, including 79 in intensive care and 29 on ventilators. Mr Foley said the surgeries had to be put on hold because of the huge pressure the Omicron strain of the virus had placed on the health system. He said authorities regretted having to delay all non-urgent surgery, but that they were now in a position to cautiously and carefully turn that system back on next week.

Mr Foley said no date had been set for when elective surgeries would resume for the broader health system, but discussions would continue. In Melbourne, private operators and day centres will be able to conduct elective surgeries at half their normal capacity, while regional centres will be able to operate at 75 per cent of capacity. The government announced a $1.4 billion healthcare package on Friday, with Ambulance Victoria to receive an additional $35 million and public hospitals $938 million. Our health system continues to be the subject of unprecedented levels of demand from this Omicron wave, now truly into our second year of this global pandemic, Mr Foley said.

This investment is so critical in allowing our world-class health system to continue its work of getting through this crisis and supporting our people, our infrastructure and our services. Ambulance Victoria recorded its busiest three-month period ever to December last year, responding to more than 91,000 serious callouts, a 16.2 per cent increase on the same period in 2020. Ambulance Victoria chief executive Tony Walker urged people not to call triple zero unless it was an emergency, and seek assistance from services like Nurse-On-Call if appropriate. Its important we collectively work to ensure that our emergency services are there for those who need it in an emergency, Mr Walker said.

Loading Victorias code brown designation  which affects metropolitan and major regional hospitals and means less urgent services can be deferred  is likely to remain in place for a number of weeks, Mr Foley said. He said health experts were still advising that the code brown could be removed around four to six weeks from when it was instated on January 18. Karen Folan, a nurse unit manager at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, said the pandemic had been the toughest time that any of us have had. The workforce shortages have just been really challenging, but we are getting there with them, she said.

Of the new cases reported in Victoria on Friday, 3889 were confirmed by PCR tests, while 7351 were self-reported from rapid antigen tests. More than 24,700 PCR tests results were returned on Thursday and Victoria now has 65,986 active cases. Ten of the deaths reported in Victoria on Friday occurred in the previous 48 hours, while 18 of the fatalities occurred over the previous fortnight and a further eight are deaths that occurred in November, December and January. The 36 people whose deaths with COVID-19 were reported on Friday were aged in their 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.

Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly said on Thursday that coronavirus deaths among elderly Australians and aged care residents would continue to rise in the coming weeks. There will be more deaths in Australia, Professor Kelly told reporters on Thursday. I do expect deaths in aged care and elsewhere in the community over the next few weeks. There have been 777 aged care residents who have died with COVID-19 since July last year. In response to the significant aged care deaths, Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce told ABC News Breakfast on Friday the government was always working out how you can do a better job and create a better outcome.

Weve had tragic deaths, but thank God you live in Australia and not in the UK or in so many other nations. Because weve done an exceptional job [at keeping people alive] and the government has done an exceptional job, he said. The federal Health Department is setting up a taskforce to gather more information on COVID-19-related deaths and preparing to supply aged care facilities with oral treatments for coronavirus in preparation for the next major outbreak. Labor leader Anthony Albanese called for Aged Care Minister Richard Colbecks resignation on Thursday. About 93 per cent of Victorians have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 42 per cent of the population aged over 18 have received a booster dose. There were 15,382 inoculations administered at state-run sites on Thursday.
What I saw will stick with me for a long time, says the man first on the scene of a crash that killed two people.

Police were called to the three-car crash on State Highway 26 at Eureka, between Hamilton and Morrinsville, shortly before 2pm on Tuesday.

Before they arrived, a man who lives nearby rushed out to find a man, woman, and baby in a black vehicle, which was most damaged in the crash.

People from two other cars had already escaped, said the man, who spoke to Stuff on the basis of anonymity.

The driver door had been ripped off in the crash.

The man told Stuff he reached into the back seat to check for the babys pulse, but it was too late.

He says the baby was tiny, likely only a month old.

Everyone who was able to get out of their vehicle safely had, and all he could do was wait for emergency services.

The three to four minutes felt like an eternity to him.

The people in the other two cars were just in shock, he says.

One vehicle caught fire, the man says, but the occupant had already escaped.

Three people were injured in the three-car crash, one seriously and two with moderate injuries, a police spokesperson says.

The man told Stuff he had lived near the intersection for four years, and was shocked this was the first major crash.

He says maize obscured the view of people coming around the corner from Morrinsville, and turning into Hinton Road.

The man says motorcycles flew around the corner at 120km an hour, and people overtook each other, forgetting that motorists could be pulling out of Hinton Road.

A third person died on Waikato roads on Tuesday, after a separate crash in Waitoa about 4.10pm.

The crash involved a car and a truck, and happened on Waihekau Rd.

Matamata Piako Mayor Ash Tanner says the crashes are a reminder to be careful on the roads.

Its summer-time, there are more cars on the road. Its a reminder for everyone to take extra care.

My thoughts are with the families and friends of those who were killed in the accidents.

Past work at his father-in-laws panel beating business gives Tanner a first-hand look at the damage road crashes cause.

Its obviously devastating for those involved, Tanner says.

-Stuff/Rachel Moore.
Vinpro stalwart and wine industry expert, Francois Viljoen has received a prestigious Viticulture and Wine Creation Award in recognition for his contribution to the South African wine industry. He was honoured during the annual SA Wine Harvest Commemorative Event on 2 February, with Carmen Stevens (1659 Visionary Leadership Award), Denise Stubbs (Diversity and Transformation) and Christine Rudman (Wine Appreciation and Wine Advancement).

Source: Supplied | Francois Viljoen

Viljoen has been a viticulturist in the South African wine industry for the past 36 years. Prior to taking up his position at the helm of Vinpros Gen-Z Vineyard Project in July 2019, he was the manager of Vinpros consultation services for 20 years, during which he led a team of expert viticulturists and soil scientists.

Apart from his crucial role in facilitating the transfer of the latest technology, vineyard practices and cultivars through the Gen-Z project, Francois provides viticultural advice to wine farms across the South African wine industry. In 2014 Robertson Wine Valley awarded him the prestigious Pon van Zyl trophy for his outstanding contributions to the region and broader wine industry. He especially helped bring about a move towards goal-driven viticulture practices while emphasising the role of terroir and striving for quality.

"Francois truly is a worthy recipient of this prestigious award," says Anton Smuts, Vinpro chairman. "He is not only an expert in his field and advocate for viticulture as a profession, but is passionate about sharing and exchanging ideas, best practices, technology and research findings with anyone, from students to vineyard workers, producers and colleagues."

"We are extremely proud of Francois," says Rico Basson, Vinpro MD. "He is a leader, mentor and pioneer with the Gen-Z Vineyard Project as his brainchild. Its foundation of 'seeing is believing' through the establishment of vineyard trials throughout the industry has fast-tracked knowledge transfer and will enable producers to be more nimble, innovative and sustainable.

"His feet are firmly on the ground  or rather in the vineyard. Always ready with a quip or story, Francois is an ever patient teacher with an incredible gift for conveying complex information in a simple way to any audience.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 03/02/2022 (232 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

REGINA  Premier Scott Moe says his Saskatchewan Party government will soon end COVID-19 measures that he says restrict peoples rights and freedoms.

COVID is not ending, but government restrictions on your rights and freedoms  those will be ending, and ending very soon, Moe said in a four-minute video posted Wednesday night on social media.

Its no longer necessary for the public to assess every activity, including going to a movie, watching childrens sporting events or dining out, he said.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe speaks during the Saskatchewan Party 2021 Convention in Saskatoon, Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Liam Richards

Whats necessary is your freedom. Whats necessary is getting your life back to normal, and its time.

Its impossible to eliminate COVID-19, Moe said, so society must learn to live with the virus and make use of the protection vaccines, antiviral treatments and testing provide.

The Omicron variant is less severe and people who are vaccinated can still catch it, the premier said, so Saskatchewan will manage COVID-19 in the same way it does common respiratory viruses.

The latest data from the government of Saskatchewan shows the unvaccinated are infected at a rate of 447 per 100,000 people. The rate drops to 380 for those with two doses and to 356 for those with a booster shot.

Moe says in the video its time to lift restrictions because vaccinated people are getting infected at a similar rate as the unvaccinated.

Im concerned that COVID being the constant topic of conversation and dictating our daily lives will have a negative impact on each of us in the province, he said.

And calls for daily government intrusion into peoples lives, skepticism regarding anything remotely positive related to COVID, this perpetual state of crisis is having a harmful impact on everyone.

Dr. Saqib Shahab, chief medical health officer, said broad public health orders can have societal effects that go beyond health care. An unintended consequence of measures can include depression, he said.

Public health is ultimately the responsibility of elected governments  whether federal or provincial  and its always been a matter of balancing the benefit (of restrictions) versus the risk, Shahab said.

Saskatchewans public health orders include a mask mandate in indoor public spaces, a requirement to self-isolate if positive for COVID-19 and proof of vaccination to enter most establishments. They are set to expire at the end of the February, but Moe said that could happen sooner depending on hospitalizations and advice from health officials.

Moes comments have attracted praise from some who feel measures have run their course, and criticism from the Saskatchewan Medical Association, which says restrictions are still needed to mitigate the spread of Omicron.

Tamara Lich, a key leader of the Convoy for Freedom protest in Ottawa, said Moe is taking leadership in Canada to end restrictions.

Hopefully these words will turn into long-lasting action, Lich said Thursday.

A convoy is planned at the Saskatchewan legislature for Saturday. Protesters have said they will stay until restrictions are lifted.

Opposition Leader Ryan Meili said Moe is playing footsie with extremists. He urged the premier to denounce Saturdays rally in Regina.

To the people who might come to Regina and try to occupy the legislature, go home. Its not smart, its not safe and its not right, the NDP leader said.

Scott Moe, show some  leadership. Tell these people to stay  out of Regina. Theres no place for this kind of garbage.

While Saskatchewans Omicron wave appears to be at its peak, the lag time between infection, testing and illness means hospitalizations are expected to rise in the coming weeks, said Shahab. On Thursday, there were a record 384 people in Saskatchewan hospitals with COVID-19 and 37 in intensive care.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 3, 2022.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director at the National Institute Of Allergy and Infectious Diseases during a hearing, with the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, on the COVID-19 response, on Capitol Hill in Washington on March 18, 2021. (Anna Moneymaker-Pool/Getty Images)

Fauci Says Hes Mystified by Lagging Vaccine Booster Rates

White House COVID-19 adviser Anthony Fauci said he is confused as to why booster rates are lagging and said he doesnt have an easy explanation for the phenomenon.

When asked by a reporter on Wednesday about why fully vaccinated individuals arent getting as many boosters, Fauci noted that about half of all eligible Americans have received booster doses so far. Fauci made the remarks alongside COVID-19 response coordinator Jeff Zients at a White House briefing.

Why would people who had enough understanding of the risk to go ahead and get the primary serieswhy we dont have more getting the booster, Fauci, the head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984, said in response. I dont have an easy explanation for that.

Fauci said that he believes that federal health data suggests that it is stunningly obvious that vaccinated people should get a booster dose.

So, the only thing that we can do is to continue to come out with the data and to make sure the American public appreciates why it is so important for optimal protection to get boosted, he said.

Faucis comments come as several recent studies have shown that natural immunity, or the immunity achieved by prior COVID-19 infection, provides effective and lasting protection. One preprint study published in Italy in late January suggested that natural immunity lasts about 18 months.

At 18 months, 97 percent participants tested positive for anti-NCP, hinting towards the persistence of infection-induced immunity even for the vaccinated individuals, researchers wrote in a study posted to the Medrxiv website, referring to nucleocapsid, a type of protein within the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, otherwise known as SARS-CoV-2.

Meanwhile, other studies have suggested that the Omicron variant may spread more quickly among fully vaccinated populations. In early January, Danish researchers, in a survey of some 12,000 households, found that unvaccinated people are as susceptible as those who are vaccinated.

At the same time, some U.S. cities have indicated they may start to end certain COVID-19 restrictions such as vaccine passports or indoor mask mandates. Some countries are planningor have already donethe same.

No one can know what will happen next December. But we promised the citizens of Denmark that we will only have restrictions if they are truly necessary and well lift them as soon as we can, Denmark Health Minister Magnus Heunicke told CNN Monday. Thats whats happening right now.

Several weeks ago, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that COVID-19-related restrictions like masking and vaccine mandates would end in England.

And this week, officials in Israel, one of the first countries to implement a COVID-19 pass, said the countrys green pass would expire this week.

To continue the green pass in the same way can create false assurances, Nadav Davidovitch, who serves as an expert in the prime ministers government, told reporters, according to the AFP news agency.

Passports and other mandates are not reducing infections in closed spaces like theatres. It needs to be used mainly for high-risk places like hospitals, elderly care homes, or events when you are eating and singing and dancing, he added.
Local and state health care leaders are alarmed by the Senates health care proposal, particularly the impact it would have on rural communiti
In #FreshOnTheShelf, we round up our pick of food and beverage products that have hit the shelves recently.

Cape Town Black Rhino Gin

The Cape Town Gin & Spirits Company has added a new varietal to its lineup of gins, this time in aid of rhino conservation.

Source: Supplied

Through its new spirit, Cape Town Black Rhino Gin, the beverage company supports the ongoing fight to save the rhino by donating a portion of proceeds for every bottle sold to the Boucher Legacy, an NPO working to protect not only the endangered rhino but other dwindling species from extinction at the hands of humans with the hope of ending poaching for good across SA.

Cape Town Black Rhino Gin is made in the classic style and infused with rhino bush and buchu.

With its olive-green colour, which it gets from the local botanicals, and a slightly sweeter taste, the new gin is ideal for a new-style G&T.

This is not the Cape Town Gin & Spirits Company's first product for a cause. Its The Pink Lady Gin supports the important work done by breast cancer community carer PinkDrive, and for its Rooibos Red Gin, the company works closely with Khoisan Gourmet, which empowers local Khoi and San farming communities.

Cape Town Black Rhino Gin is available at all leading liquor outlets.

Okja Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Okja, the clean label plant-based food and beverage brand from Cape Town, best known for its strikingly packaged plant milks, has launched a Chocolate Hazelnut Spread.

Source: Supplied

Recognising that many of the common chocolate-hazelnut spreads on shelves can contain more palm oil in them than hazelnuts, Okja's version contains none of this controversial ingredient, and also has no dairy or flavourings.

The spread can be smeared on one's favourite bread or breakfast pastry, or simply scooped out of the jar by the spoonful for an indulgent treat.

Okja Chocolate Hazelnut Spread is available from Takealot, selected Spar stores, Faithful to Nature, as well as popular delis such as Giovannis. It retails for between R69.99 and R74.99, it is also available from the new Okja cafe in Camps Bay.
TWIN FALLS  Police have asked the publics help in finding a missing adult who left her familys residence.

Police said Aryn Reed, 20, left of her own accord and may be in a vehicle with Florida license plates. She may still be in the Twin Falls area.

If you have seen Aryn or know of her location, please contact Detective Rivers at 208-735-721, police said.

No other information was immediately available.
Even when Gov. Mike Parson is right, he finds a way to be wrong. In a press release correctly condemning his fellow Missouri Republicans for effectively ousting his public health nominee based on misinformation, Parson declared that he wouldnt have put anyone in that role who doesnt have the same Christian values as himself.

So atheists, Muslims and Jews need not apply for state-funded positions under this administration? In addition to being deeply offensive, that suggestion  made on official letterhead and posted on the governors official Twitter account  is blatantly unconstitutional.

Parson made the comment while savaging state Senate Republicans for refusing to confirm his appointment of Donald Kauerauf as director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Kauerauf was well-qualified, but that means nothing to todays elected Republicans, who too often see their duty as nothing more or less than appeasing the most irrational elements of their base.

Components of that base had launched a sabotage campaign against Kauerauf, falsely alleging he had called for mask mandates and vaccine requirements, and questioning his commitment to their anti-abortion-rights cause. Those allegations were baseless rantings by fringe extremists, but that didnt stop Senate Republicans from dutifully carrying their water and handing Parson a defeat.

Issuing his own angry rant in a press release, Parson chided the Senate for choosing to believe baseless rumors and outright lies on social media rather than the facts in front of them. Thats an accurate summary of the situation  and an ironically good description of the pandemic response from too many of the conservatives with whom Parson has aligned himself.

Parson also slammed Senate Republicans for tarnishing a mans character by feeding misinformation. Right again. And, again, it could serve as an eerily apt description of another issue: Parsons bizarre campaign of belligerent public attacks and legal threats against Post-Dispatch reporter Josh Renaud for daring to discover a security vulnerability in an online state database and bringing it to the administrations attention before going public with it.

If that episode hinted that Parson isnt especially respectful of the First Amendment, his comment in the press release defending Kaueraufs anti-abortion credentials confirms it. Missourians know that I share these beliefs and would not have nominated someone who does not share the same Christian values, he wrote.

While we disagree with Parsons policies opposing abortion rights, he has a right as governor to appoint cabinet members with similar policy views. But imposing a religion-specific litmus test is something entirely different  and entirely improper.

Its never been in Parsons nature to be courageous enough to retract such a statement. As this and other episodes have demonstrated, thoughtful acceptance of criticism isnt exactly his strong suit. But Missouri voters at least should know that the leader of this states democracy apparently views it as more of a theocracy.
The U.S. government says it has obtained intelligence about a Russian plan to create a mass casualty event as pretext for an invasion of Ukraine.

According to U.S. officials, Russia is looking to stage a fabricated assault by Ukrainian military or intelligence personnel that it would use to justify moving its forces across the border. A propaganda video with graphic scenes would be released claiming it is evidence of an attack.

Administration officials have not released any concrete evidence of the plan or details about how it was uncovered, contending that would jeopardize intelligence sources and methods.
BRIDGEWATER  Sophomore Rheannon Fultz was at the top floor of the library of Bridgewater College on Tuesday as law enforcement officers rushed to campus grounds responding to a report of an active shooter on campus. She remembers sheltering under her table and watching the glint of speeding cars and blue lights out the window toward the campus grounds.

That was really scary for me, because I thought, Wow theres just a really bad thing happening really close to me, Fultz said. And I do remember hearing a little bit of yelling, and some frantic behavior, but Im just really thankful for all the first responders that were able to come so quickly.

A day after the incident, the Rockingham and Bridgewater College communities came together at the Carter Center for Worship and Music and grieved the loss of two members of the community in their own way, joining together to sing the colleges alma mater.

This morning initially, I was really exhausted from yesterday, just emotionally and physically, but I saw the notification that this event was happening and it really did encourage me, Fultz said. Ive always believed that music is a great way to connect people, but you know, Im still hurt. Im sure they are feeling the same way.

Two Bridgewater College officers died Tuesday in a shooting on campus, and authorities charged former Hanover resident Alexander Wyatt Campbell with their murder.

Bridgewater lost John Painter, 55, and Vashon J.J. Jefferson, 48, who always seemed to be together patrolling the campus. Painter was one of the schools six police officers. Jefferson was one of its four unarmed safety officers.

Last year, at Jeffersons wedding, Painter stood beside him as his best man.

They were together again at the end, responding as a pair to a report of a suspicious person on campus near Memorial Hall, which houses classrooms and faculty offices.

On this small campus in Rockingham County just south of Harrisonburg, the pair were well known to the staff and 1,500 students, said college President David W. Bushman.

Bridgewater, I said its a family, and I dont use that term lightly, Bushman said in a media briefing Tuesday. Thats what were all navigating right now. Its not just that we lost two employees. We lost two friends, two family members.

Painter joined the department in 2019 after retiring as chief of the nearby town of Grottoes police department, said Milton Franklin, police chief for Bridgewater College.

Jefferson joined in 2018. Previously he was a safety officer at Shenandoah University in Winchester from 2012-2018. In 2017, he received an award for envisioning campus safety by focusing on student and community relationships, the Fauquier Times reported.

At Bridgewater on Wednesday, the group sang the schools alma mater, Bridgewater Fair, in response to the tragedy.

The song, written by John Wayland of the Class of 1899, hails the schools storied halls, laughing waters and sons and daughters.

As community members gathered to support one another and sing their communitys familiar song in unison, Bushman said coming together like this is how the community demonstrates its close-knit ties.

You can see the support thats here, Bushman said as friends and family members embraced one another. Its a strong community and thats why I have  as heart wrenching as this is, as difficult as it is  thats how I know were going to be OK.

Bushman said its moments like this when hes remind that Bridgewaters strengths are in its traditions and community.

Thats the nature of Bridgewater, Bushman said. Its not just singing a college song, this is something that every alum, every current student knows. Its something they take with them and so it is a way of showing solidarity. Solidarity and support for each other in a very meaningful way.

Bushman said his primary concern is the emotional and mental wellbeing of that same community, but his thoughts are foremost with the Painter and Jefferson families whose loved ones paid the ultimate sacrifice. He recalled what he dubbed the dynamic duos inseparable friendship, how they were never apart and how the community is still processing their loss.

Generations of Bridgewater students, faculty and alumni were present to support one another each other, including Janita Daggy, who graduated from the college in 2007. Daggy says Bridgewater has a way of bringing everyone back to together.

I guess the phrase that stays in my mind is once an eagle, always an eagle, Daggy said as tears started to swell in her eyes. Once youre family, youre always family. I have friends who went to school here, and were still friends. And thats one of the reasons why Im here today is to be able to give back to a family that gave to me.

As generations of Bridgewater families connected, Daggy said she knows itll take time for the community to heal but Bridgewater will always come together because, as the colleges president said, its in their nature.

When one of us are hurt, were all hurt, Daggy said. And thats what we stand for as we stand together.

There have been at least 13 incidents of gunfire on Virginia college campuses since 2002, according to historical news reports and data compiled by the nonprofit organization Everytown for Gun Safety and reviewed by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Everytown, which advocates for gun control, maintains a database of shootings on or near school campuses since 2013. In that time, it has cataloged more than 200 incidents at colleges and more than 400 at elementary, middle, and high schools across the country.

Last year, VCU student Cody Woodson and a 17-year-old male were shot and killed on back-to-back days on the same block of Gilmer Street, adjacent to the Monroe Park campus.

A law enforcement procession returning Painter and Jefferson home from Roanoke will take place Thursday at approximately 2 p.m. along Interstate 81.
Plastics quickly became popular for their convenience and disposability. But now, there are anywhere from 15 to 51 trillion tons of plastic in the oceans, and plastic pollution is set to outweigh all fish in the oceans by 2050. The United Nations (UN) Environment Assembly has plans to meet in February and March 2022 to put together a global treaty that tackles our plastic crisis.

So far, most nations have agreed to participate, but its a daunting task ahead to determine the scope, timeline and details of such an unprecedented treaty. The Biden administration in the U.S. supports such a treaty  a shift from the attitudes under former president Donald Trump  but hasnt shared specifics about what it wants included in the agreement.

In 2016, the U.S. produced more plastic waste than any other country globally, and it has remained a top polluter since. Its estimated to currently sit as the No. 2 country for highest plastic pollution.

Worldwide, at least 8.8 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the worlds oceans each year  the equivalent of dumping a garbage truck of plastic into the sea every minute, says a recent study by the U.S. National Academy of Sciences.

This study focuses on oceans, but plastics have reached every part of our planet, from remote island to the poles and everywhere in between.

In 2021, the UN released a report called Drowning in Plastics  Marine Litter and Plastic Waste Vital Graphics that notes only about 9% of plastics that are produced end up recycled. Another 12% are incinerated. The rest go to landfill or make their way into vulnerable ecosystems, often the oceans, where they dont degrade.

Aside from filling up landfills and oceans, human dependency on plastics is worsening the climate crisis and its effects.

At current levels, greenhouse gas emissions from the plastic lifecycle threaten the ability of the global community to keep global temperature rise below 1.5C, says a 2019 report by the Center for International Environmental Law. With the petrochemical and plastic industries planning a massive expansion in production, the problem is on track to get much worse.

The report continues to say that by 2050, plastic accumulation  if it continues as expected  may reach over 56 gigatons, or 10% to 13% of the remaining carbon budget.

The UN has previously noted the need for political action to handle the growing plastic production and waste. So from February 28 to March 2, the UN Environment Assembly will meet in Nairobi, Kenya to create a treaty framework, hammering out what will and wont be included.

As reported by Mongabay, the assembly will primarily focus on two drafts: one that includes a more comprehensive approach for plastics, from production to waste management, and one that focuses on ocean pollution and plastic disposal.

The plastics industry is somewhat on board, although companies are working to shift the treaty in a way that still benefits them.

So far, the European Union and 48 countries have signed an agreement to create a plastics treaty. The U.S. has yet to sign the agreement but does plan to participate in the drafting of a treaty.
Potential jurors called up for Lancaster County District Court are off the hook this month.

At least a half dozen cases that had been set for the trial term starting next week won't go forward due to COVID-19, following deliberation and a decision by the judges for the panel.

But Lancaster County District Court Clerk Troy Hawk, who also serves as Jury Commissioner, said Lancaster County Court still has jury trials scheduled for later this month.

Juries there are half the size and trials often are much shorter than in district court.

In one of the district court cases, District Court Judge Andrew Jacobsen said the court raised on its own motion to delay, "due to the public health concerns over the current state of the coronavirus pandemic."

He said in a written order that new coronavirus cases in Nebraska continue at the highest rate since the pandemic began.

Jacobsen said the health and safety of all individuals in the Lancaster County courthouse is a "very high priority."

Although vaccinations are available, he said, only 65.2% of the eligible population are fully vaccinated and only 59% boosted.

"Many people in our community, including court staff and potential jurors, have chronic medical conditions which make them especially vulnerable to the severe consequences of COVID-19," the judge said.

Jacobsen said conducting a jury trial in this period of the pandemic would pose clear danger to members of the public, participants in the judicial process, court security personnel, law enforcement officers, attorneys, court staff, judges and potential jurors.

He said it would be more prudent to wait to have the trial until the illness poses a less serious risk to the public.

The cases are being delayed until the April jury term. However, a second jury panel before other district court judges remains set for March.
WASHINGTON  The pre-dawn raid Thursday by U.S. special operations forces in northeastern Syria was designed to capture the leader of the Islamic State group, who instead blew himself up along with members of his family rather than be taken alive, top Pentagon officials said.

Elite American troops spent months planning and coordinating the operation, conducting tabletop exercises and dry-runs intent on avoiding civilian casualties and capturing ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, the officials said in separate briefings Thursday. But as the U.S. troops surrounded al-Qurayshis home and called through a megaphone for the occupants to surrender, the ISIS leader detonated a bomb that destroyed the buildings third floor, killing him and several others, including his own wife and children, officials said.

The objective was to finish his leadership of ISIS and that was achieved, chief Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters. This is a man who we should all be happy is no longer walking on the face of the Earth.

The explosion was larger than a typical suicide vest blast  such as the one that al-Qurayshis predecessor, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, used to kill himself as American forces cornered him in a similar raid in Syria in 2019, said Marine Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, the leader of U.S. Central Command who was the senior commander for both attacks.

Let me be clear, [al-Qurayshi] did not fight, McKenzie said during a virtual appearance with the Middle East Institute. He killed himself and his immediate family without fighting, even as we attempted to call for his surrender and offered him a path to survive.

The general said 10 noncombatants at the house  an adult male, an adult female and eight children  were saved from harm and, ultimately, left at the site after U.S. forces departed.

Though using ground forces elevates the risk of troop casualties, the decision to raid the compound rather than conduct an airstrike was a deliberate attempt to prevent unintentional civilian deaths, President Joe Biden said Thursday.

Knowing that this terrorist had chosen to surround himself with families, including children, we made a choice to pursue a special forces raid at a much greater risk to our people rather than targeting him with an airstrike," Biden said in a public address.

U.S forces, however, did kill at least four people during the raid. Two people  an ISIS militant and his wife  were killed after firing on troops as they arrived at the buildings second floor, said Kirby, who described the militant as one of al-Qurayshis top lieutenants. Kirby did not name the fighter.

A child was also killed on the second floor, Kirby and McKenzie said. The general indicated ISIS fighters were believed to be responsible for the childs death.

Two others killed in the event were from a group of armed men linked to al-Qaida who entered the scene as American troops cleared the building after the explosion, McKenzie said. They were struck by helicopter gunfire, while others in their group fled the scene.

McKenzie and Kirby said it was possible more people died during the raid  particularly in the blast set off by al-Qurayshi. McKenzie said he did not believe American troops had accidently killed any civilians during the operation.

The mission was carefully designed, and we believe very effective in minimizing harm to noncombatants, the general said. But, as always, we'll look into whether any unintended harm resulted from U.S. actions.

Kirby said the Pentagon could also review the incident to be certain no U.S. troops killed noncombatants.

We certainly are willing to take a look to see if theres any possibility that anything that we did might have caused harm to innocent life, he said.

The emphasis expressed Thursday by U.S. officials on reducing casualties comes after recent criticism of American airstrikes killing civilians, highlighted by an attack in the final days of the U.S. war in Afghanistan when American forces killed 10 civilians in an Aug. 29 strike on a car in Kabul mistakenly identified as one belonging ISIS terrorists.

Gen. Sami Said, the Air Force inspector general, said in November that a review of the airstrike revealed no criminal wrongdoing, instead calling it an honest mistake.

The issue here is to figure out what we could have done better to make sure this never happens again, he said at the time.

Last week, the Rand Corp. issued a report analyzing Pentagon civilian casualty policies and procedures that found the military's data and records that support assessments of civilian harm can be incomplete.

The militarys standard for finding a civilian casualty report to be credible is higher than advertised, the report said.

The report further found the U.S.s intelligence efforts focus too much on the enemy, limiting resources available to understand the broader civilian picture, and that some combatant commands are unprepared to address civilian-harm issues.

McKenzie, who is due to retire from the military later this year, said al-Qurayshis death would deal a blow to ISIS in Syria and Iraq as well as its affiliates around the globe.

Nonetheless, the general said ISIS remains the largest terrorist threat to Americans, and the group is steadfast in its desire to attack the United States and other Western nations.

Al-Qurayshi was not as well-known as al-Baghdadi, but McKenzie speculated the loss of the latest ISIS leader might be more difficult for the terrorist group because he was more of a battlefield tactician than his predecessor, who founded ISIS.

I can assure you that he was every bit as evil and every bit as committed to attacks on the United States and our partners as al-Baghdadi, McKenzie said. In fact, while Baghdadi was iconic and a philosophic figure in ISIS, this guy is actually far more of an operational planner and a director of operationsHis loss blunts some of ISIS ability to [plan] for now.
ANKARA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Israeli President Isaac Herzog will visit Turkey in mid-March, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said Thursday, noting the two countries seek to restore bilateral ties.

"With this visit, we will endeavor to put our bilateral relations on a very different ground for the future, in a positive direction," Erdogan told reporters at Ankara's Esenboga Airport before departing for Ukraine.

On the fact that Israel had sent its special representatives to Turkey, Erdogan said Turkish special envoys would also travel to Israel before Herzog's visit.

Turkey's relations with Israel have deteriorated since 2010, when a Turkish-led flotilla trying to break Israel's blockade on the Gaza Strip clashed with Israeli forces, killing 10 Turks onboard.

Before 2010, Turkey and Israel had long been in close relations, including military and intelligence cooperation.

Reconciliation attempts did not yield full recovery of ties between the two countries because Erdogan is a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause.

In a more recent spat in 2018 when the United States moved its embassy to Jerusalem, Turkey expelled the Israeli ambassador from Ankara.

The two countries have been working on a rapprochement in recent months, with Erdogan holding phone talks with Herzog.

On Jan. 16, the Turkish president said Ankara was interested in resuming talks with Israel over transporting Israeli natural gas to Europe through Turkey.

His remarks came after the United States dropped support for the EastMed pipeline, a rival project involving Israel, Cyprus and Turkey's neighbor and rival Greece.

In 2016, Turkey and Israel held a series of talks for the transport of Israeli gas through Turkey as part of reconciliation efforts, but the discussions were fruitless. 
SANTA FE  A proposal to update New Mexicos voting laws and establish new rules for poll challengers won approval 39-0 in the state Senate on Thursday  a rare point of broad bipartisan agreement on election legislation.

The measure, Senate Bill 6, would require counties to use voter convenience centers that allow voters to cast ballots at any polling location and impose an 11 p.m. halt to absentee-vote counting on election night, among other changes.

It also requires training for poll watchers and challengers and imposes some limits on their activities. State elections officials would establish a new program intended to maintain accurate voting rolls.

No senator voted against the bill, which heads next to the state House.

If we listen to each other, respect each other as we go through a process, we can have a bill on a divisive issue that has unanimous support of this chamber, said Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto, an Albuquerque Democrat and co-sponsor of the bill.

Sen. Crystal Diamond, a Elephant Butte Republican and co-sponsor, said the bill strengthens the transparency of our election laws.
The DUPs Paul Givan has announced his resignation as Northern Irelands First Minister.

Here are the answers to some of the key questions about a move that has once again thrown powersharing at Stormont into crisis.

 Was this a surprise?

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson (David Young/PA)

No. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has been threatening to pull Mr Givan from the Executive for months in protest at the economic barriers on Irish Sea trade created by the Northern Ireland Protocol. These repeated warnings, without subsequent action, had led some critics to portray Sir Jeffrey as the boy who cried wolf. On Thursday, the DUP leader finally followed through and withdrew his First Minister from the devolved institutions.

 Why has Michelle ONeill lost her job too?

The powersharing structures created during the peace process mean a functioning Executive can only operate if the largest unionist party and largest nationalist party share the joint office of the First Minister and the deputy First Minister (The Executive Office).

One cannot remain in position without the other. Mr Givans resignation forcibly removes Ms ONeill from post.

 So, does this trigger a snap Assembly election?

Parliament Buildings at Stormont, Belfast (Paul Faith/PA)

If first and deputy first ministers are not renominated within a week, the UK Government assumes a legal responsibility to call an Assembly election within a reasonable time frame. Legislation that has almost completed its passage through Westminster would significantly extend this cooling off period to up to nine months. However, most of this is largely academic in the current situation, as Northern Ireland already has a scheduled Assembly election in May. At most, Mr Givans resignation could see the date for that poll brought forward by several weeks.

 Is this all about the Northern Ireland Protocol?

From the DUP perspective, very much so. The party contends that such drastic action is required to demonstrate the strength of opposition it claims exists within the broader unionist/loyalist community about the so-called Irish Sea border. The resignation of the First Minister comes a day after DUP Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots ordered a unilateral halt to the agri-food checks at Northern Ireland ports required under the protocol. This weeks events mark a co-ordinated escalation of the DUPs campaign against the post-Brexit trade arrangements.

Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs site in Belfast, which is one of those used when lorries roll off the ferries to perform checks (Liam McBurney/PA)

For the DUPs rivals however, this is all about the election. The DUP has been on the end of some recent bruising opinion poll results and, barring a significant turnaround in fortunes, Sinn Fein is on course to replace it as the largest party in Northern Ireland. The republican party claims the actions of the DUP are part of a cynical strategy designed to galvanise its electoral base and win back voters disillusioned by its handling of the Brexit process.

 Do the other Executive ministers stay in post?

Yes. While Mr Givan and Ms ONeill have vacated their roles, the other ministers in the administration can continue with their day-to-day duties, albeit they are hamstrung from making major policy moves.

 So, what practical effect does it have?

Under Stormont rules, significant or controversial decisions, or ones that cut across the briefs of several departments, need the approval of the full Executive. Without a first and deputy first minister, the Executive cannot meet and such decisions cannot be taken. Policies that have not yet been introduced, but which have gained the necessary Executive approval, could proceed. Various Bills that have commenced their legislative journey in the Assembly could be able to become law  though that largely depends on time and whether the mandate is cut short by the calling of an early election.

 Then what is in jeopardy?

Finance Minister Conor Murphy (Brian Lawless/PA)

The most significant item of unfinished business for the current Executive is the draft three-year budget. Sinn Fein Finance Minister Conor Murphys spending plan envisages a significant reconfiguration of Executive spending priorities to boost investment in the regions under-pressure health service. A failure to agree a final Executive budget would derail those plans to prioritise health spending.

Mr Givan and Ms ONeill had also been due to deliver an official apology to victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse in Northern Ireland on March 11. That could not proceed without them being in post.

The appointment of a new victims commissioner for Northern Ireland can also not happen.

 What about Covid-19 restrictions?

A small number of public health curbs remain in place, such as the wearing of face masks in certain settings and obligations on businesses to collect contact tracing information and conduct risk assessments.

Northern Irelands Health Minister Robin Swann (Peter Morrison/PA)

The fate of these measures in the absence of an Executive is unclear. While the measures were introduced as a consequence of Executive-wide decisions, DUP sources insist UUP Health Minister Robin Swann can use emergency powers granted during the pandemic to lift them unilaterally. A source close to Mr Swann questioned that contention on Thursday and said the position requires legal scrutiny.

 Have we not been here before?

Yes. Devolution only returned to Stormont in January 2020 after a three-year powersharing impasse triggered by the resignation of the late Sinn Fein deputy first minister Martin McGuinness. Mr McGuinnesss move in 2017 forced the then DUP first minister Arlene Foster from post. The other ministers remained in post until a subsequent snap election. The dispute between the DUP and Sinn Fein, which erupted amid a row over a botched green energy scheme, widened to take in longstanding wrangles over issues such as the Irish language and the legacy of the Troubles. It lasted for three years, with the institutions finally returning as a result of the New Decade, New Approach agreement.
Thomas de Waal: More storm clouds gather over Armenia, Azerbaijan

Armenia FM to Jordan counterpart and deputy PM: Maximalist policy of Azerbaijan needs to be restrained

Armenia parliament speaker calls on all international colleagues to condemn Azerbaijan military aggression

Armenia former deputy PM Tigran Avinyan is appointed Yerevan Deputy Mayor

Yerevan market explosion criminal proceedings: 1 of 3 arrested accused is released

Yerevan city council holding special session, appointing ex-deputy PM Tigran Avinyan as deputy mayor is on agenda

Fly Arna receives its second Airbus A320 aircraft

Armenia defense ministry dismisses Azerbaijan MOD statement disseminated a while ago

MOD: Azerbaijan army fires at Armenia combat positions, at around 7:40am

Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan stalls repatriation of Armenian POWs

Newspaper: Armenia PM, parliament majority faction have closed discussion day after military operations

PM Pashinyan at UN, addresses Azerbaijan president: Could you show map of Armenia that you recognize?

PM Pashinyan at UN: Azerbaijan intends to seize new territories from Armenia

Blinken to Armenia PM: US is ready to continue its efforts aimed at negotiation, peace process

FM addresses at Ancient Civilizations Forum: Armenian cultural heritage is being destroyed by Azerbaijan

NATO chief says he is extremely concerned about recent events on Armenia-Azerbaijan border

PM: Georgia ready to become venue for Armenia-Azerbaijan dialogue

Spain wants to introduce tax on richest

Pashinyan and Mirzoyant meet with NATO Secretary General

German government intends to nationalize gas importer Sefe

Armenian side does not exclude possibility of Pashinyan and Erdogan meeting in Prague

Former Presidents and Catholicos discuss situation in Armenia

ADB lowers its economic growth forecast for developing Asia

Fire breaks out in Khosrov Forest Reserve

Saudi Arabia plans to send first female cosmonaut into space in 2023

Ararat Mirzoyan attends US President's reception

Israel agrees to sell advanced air defense system to the UAE

How does adversary aggression, mobilization in Russia, and currency fluctuations affect Armenian tourism?

Raisi to Pashinyan: Iran-Armenia connection should not be threatened

Karekin II and former presidents meet in Echmiadzin

Tatoyan Foundation: Azerbaijan is misleading international community with its lies

It becomes more and more difficult for EU to agree on new sanctions against Russia

Lavrov: Western countries become party to conflict in Ukraine

CSTO Secretary General visits Armenian border region

U.S. imposes sanctions on Iranian vice police

Liz Truss considers moving British embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

Speaker of Iranian Parliament: Security in Persian Gulf will be achieved by withdrawal of extra-regional powers

CSTO exercises will be held in Kazakhstan

Lawyer: Mothers of deceased servicemen in Yerablur are subjected to different bodily injuries

Erdogan will hold meeting on Russian 'Mir' cards and possible sanctions

Erdogan does not rule out meeting with Pashinyan in Prague: We will have certain initiatives on Caucasus

U.S. again calls for halting military aid to Azerbaijan

Iran demonstrates new long-range ballistic missiles for first time

Two servicemen of Armenian Armed Forces are out of encirclement after 9 days

Karekin II to meet today with Levon Ter-Petrosyan, Robert Kocharyan and Serzh Sargsyan

Trump: Conflict in Ukraine can lead to World War III

Russia's budget deficit in 2022 will amount to 1.3 trillion rubles

One of Armenia civilians wounded in recent Azerbaijan military aggression dies

France says it will continue helping Ukraine with arms

UN Armenia office team visits Gegharkunik Province communities affected by Azerbaijan shootings (PHOTOS)

Dollar increases slightly, euro drops considerably in Armenia

Armenia ombudswoman briefs EU envoy on closed part of her ad hoc report on recent Azerbaijan attack

State assistance being provided to Armenia brandy businesses to be extended by one year

Bloomberg: UK intends to sign agreement on LNG supplies from U.S. for up to 20 years

China's former justice minister sentenced to death

Jermuk: Changes in Jermuk resort town after Azerbaijani attack (photo report)

Jermuk-Yerevan-Jermuk shuttle service already operating

Armenian Genocide Memorials Memory Ally area to be expanded

Biden to Pashinyan: We remain committed to promote peaceful resolution to conflict, including for people of Karabakh

Internal investigation underway into police actions at Yerevan military pantheon on Independence Day anniversary

Aggression-affected IDPs from Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor to be provided with financial assistance

Peskov declines to comment on his son's refusal to report to military registration and enlistment office

Belgian parliamentary delegation visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Missing, captured Armenian civilians families to get financial support for another month

Turkish lira hits new historic low

Peskov comments on reports of agitation at airports and checkpoints

Russia air carrier to conduct additional flights to Armenia, Turkey

Kazakhstan parliament passes law to exclude Day of First President from state holidays

US Congressman Schiff: These atrocities will continue until international community condemns Aliyev

Jim Costa talks Azerbaijani attack on Armenia: It was an attack on sovereign territory

Greece official: Azerbaijan war against Armenia not on newspapers front pages as it is in Ukraine case

Senator: the U.S. must stop providing security assistance to Azerbaijan

Armenia, Finland FMs discuss Karabakh conflict settlement process

CSTO Secretary General, Armenia army chief discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Moscow agrees to appointing Lynne Tracy as new US envoy to Russia

Armenia FM to Red Cross president: Azerbaijan crimes impunity makes aggressor more reckless (PHOTOS)

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The Department of Labour on Thursday, 3 February, urged Rio Tinto workers to report instances of discrimination after the Anglo-Australian miner released an internal report detailing sexual assault, racism, and bullying across its mines.

Source: Reuters/David Gray

The report, which sparked calls from investors for the entire industry to clean up its act, found that male and female Rio Tinto employees in South Africa experienced the highest rates of racism, at 34.5% and 33.8% respectively, compared to workers in other countries.

Workers at Rio Tinto in South Africa were also the most likely to experience bullying, the report released on Tuesday found, with 54.1% of men and 61.6% of women reporting having been bullied at work.

"We can only encourage those affected to use the protection of our constitution and EEA (Employment Equity Act) to report cases of discrimination to the CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration), including cases of bullying," the department said in written responses to Reuters' questions.

CEO says findings 'disturbing'

Rio Tinto did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the government statement. CEO Jakob Stausholm, who commissioned the report, on Tuesday called the findings "disturbing" and said the company would implement all 26 recommendations from the report.

Rio Tinto's South African subsidiary Richards Bay Minerals extracts and refines heavy mineral sands and produces ilmenite, rutile, and zircon at its site in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

Asked how prevalent racism, sexism, and bullying are in South Africa's mining industry overall, the department said "we are sure that there are many instances of discrimination and bullying in the labour market in general".

However, affected individuals are reluctant to report these cases, it said.

Dealing with the report's findings

"We must say that it is also encouraging that it is the company that has initiated this research," the department added, referring to Rio Tinto's report. "What is left is them taking proper action to deal with the findings."

Asked about the report, South Africa's mining industry body the Minerals Council said it and its members "reaffirm their stance of zero tolerance for racism, sexism and gender-based violence in the mining industry".
Feb. 2A ribbon-cutting for the newly renovated Millbrook Elementary School was held Tuesday afternoon.

The ribbon-cutting comes two years after construction began in January 2020. Dr. Corey Murphy, the chief officer of operations and student services for the Aiken County Public School District, said the work includes the addition of classrooms, a car line drop-off area, redone bus drop-off and more.

"We've added a total of 26 classrooms and a new office building, also some new spaces, common spaces for the school as well," Murphy said. "You can see the new parent drop off line... and of course the new bus ramp. We are just so very excited to have this clean... environment and very soon there's going to be a premiere playground as well."

Millbrook Elementary School Principal John Metts said the students and staff are very excited for the new school building and are looking forward to the finished playground. He also thanked everyone for their patience when it came to the construction process.

"We had a very difficult campus to work with all the different buildings we've had in the past," Metts said. "Just with some of the things we've seen through this construction process, we had some little hiccups here and there, but we worked through them, and the teachers, staff and students, they all did a really good job of working together. Team work made it happen here with as least amount of difficulty as possible, so I appreciate all of you."

ACPSD Superintendent King Laurence briefly spoke and said it's incredible to see the progress that was made in two years. He also thanked the GMC, the architectural firm and McKnight Construction for all the work they did on the building.

"We're proud of the school; we know you're proud of the work you've done on the school and it's going to serve the community of Aiken for many decades to come," Laurence said. "So thank you for that."

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Four students who attended MES before and after the renovations spoke about what they enjoyed about the new school.

Caroline Busbee, a third-grader, has been at MES for four years and loves the new school.

"Before this year most of the classes were outside rooms," Busbee said. "When it would rain it would flood the areas and the sidewalk outside. I am so glad that now we are all inside the new building and we have bigger classrooms and bathrooms. We also have the new clear touch boards and nicer desks. I love having classrooms upstairs with the big windows to see outside. I am so excited for our new playground."

Fourth grader Morgan Scott said she has always loved MES and the environment there.

"Since my first year, I have loved Millbrook Elementary because it has been a safe and fun place for me to learn and grow," Scott said. "The atmosphere is nothing more than family, like with all our teachers and staff. That's why Millbrook thought only of their students when changes were made. The changes create confidence and safety for us all."

Scott also mentioned some differences between the two buildings, stating that she loves that there are now separate bathrooms.

"The old building had one bathroom, and we had to share it with the boys," Scott said. "Now the new building has separate restrooms that the girls can have a clean place to use the restroom and not have to worry about the toilet seats up."

Fourth-graders Aidan Bowers and Kenslie Harris both spoke about what they like about the renovated school, with both mentioning the new playground and not getting wet when going from one area of the school to another. Another fourth-grader, Kambree Williams gave a brief history of the school.

Art teacher Denise Spacek, who has been at the school for 23 years, talked about how she has seen the school change in the over two decades she's worked there. She talked about moving art rooms and how small her classroom was previously. With the new building, her room is large enough to have plenty of storage and a room for a kiln.

A proclamation was read by Aiken County Board of Education member Jason Crane recognizing the event.

The Millbrook Elementary School construction project was one of six projects that was part of the 2018 bond referendum for $90 million. The school was built in 1953 and had 10 classrooms. A new wing was added in 1960, with mobile units being added a few years later. In 1993 a new building was constructed and additions were built in 2006, according to information from Stephanie Behrendt, ACPSD communications coordinator.
PIERRE | A South Dakota government accountability board on Thursday set an April deadline for Gov. Kristi Noem to respond to a pair of ethics complaints from the states attorney general, signaling it believes the complaints might have merit.

Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg, who like Noem is a Republican, asked the board to consider two issues. One is whether Noems use of state airplanes broke the law, and the other is whether she improperly interfered with a state agency that was evaluating her daughters application for a real estate appraiser license.

Noem has insisted she has done nothing wrong.

After meeting for roughly 10 minutes behind closed doors, the Government Accountability Board, which is made up of retired judges, decided to give Noem until April 15  after the legislative session ends  to respond to the complaints. In December, it requested a response on one of the complaints, but the governor's office asked for more time.

This is probably not the best time of the year," said retired judge Gene Kean, referring to the governor's busy work schedule.

Former state Supreme Court Chief Justice David Gilbertson, who was appointed to the board by Noem, has recused himself from considering the complaints.

The board keeps the details of the complaints secret unless it decides they warrant a public hearing. In the past, it has dismissed complaints without requiring the targeted officials to respond to them.

Ravnsborg declined to discuss the specifics of the complaints Thursday, but he explained that the board's process calls for a response from the subject of a complaint before the board decides whether to dismiss it, move forward with it, or seek an investigation.

If the board finds ethics violations, it can take a wide range of actions, from requesting a criminal investigation to issuing a private reprimand or requiring community service. But in the five years since it was created, the board has never considered taking action against a governor.

The board has very broad discretion and we're all learning a little bit within the bounds of the statute because they have not had a lot of complaints, Ravnsborg said. It's a fairly new board.

Although Ravnsborg and Noem are both Republicans, they are not allies. The governor has pushed to remove Ravnsborg from office after he struck and killed a pedestrian with his car in 2020.

Noem has faced scrutiny over her involvement in the state's Appraiser Certification Program since The Associated Press reported that Noem called a meeting with her daughter, the labor secretary and the then-director of the certification program, Sherry Bren, just days after the Department of Labor and Regulation moved to deny her daughters appraiser license application in 2020.

Bren in December told a legislative committee looking into the episode that she felt intimidated at the meeting, and that afterward, Noem's daughter, Kassidy Peters, received an unprecedented extra opportunity to show her appraiser work could meet federal requirements.

Noem has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and said she was simply trying to solve a shortage of appraisers in the state.

Noem has also dismissed scrutiny of her state airplane use as a political attack after the news website Raw Story found that she used state-owned planes to fly to 2019 events hosted by political organizations such as the National Rifle Association, Turning Point USA and the Republican Jewish Coalition. Noem has cast her trips as part of her work as an ambassador for the state.

South Dakota officials are not allowed to use the planes for anything other than state business, and Democratic state Sen. Reynold Nesiba asked the attorney general to investigate.

Noem's spokesman, Ian Fury, said after the board announced its decision that her office is focused on the work of the legislative session.
The National Butterfly Center in Texas that stood up to former President Donald Trumps border wall is now shuttering indefinitely because of harassment from right-wing conspiracy theorists.

The 100-acre nature preserve in Mission, Texas has been in an ongoing legal battle with the former Trump administration and non-profit We Build a Wall in order to prevent wall construction on its doorstep, as HuffPost reported. Because of this, it has been targeted by right-wing groups that have falsely accused the center of being involved in human trafficking.

The safety of our staff and visitors is our primary concern, North American Butterfly Association president and founder Dr. Jeffrey Glassberg said in a statement announcing the closure. We look forward to reopening, soon, when the authorities and professionals who are helping us navigate this situation give us the green light.

The centers current plight began in 2017, when it sued the Trump administration over its proposed border wall, according to HuffPost. The center argued that wall construction would destroy habitat for birds and butterflies and cut off migration routes for low-flying species. It also said that the Trump administration began cutting down trees on center property without permission, according to NPR. If the wall were completed, it would divide the property and threaten endangered species.

The center later sued We Build the Wall, a nonprofit that supports border wall construction, saying it had defamed the center, leading to targeted harassment, according to HuffPost.

This harrassment already prompted the center to shut down from January 28 to January 30 of this year because of credible threats connected to the Pro-Trump We Stand America event that weekend, as the center said in an earlier statement.

Before the event, Virginia congressional candidate Kimberly Lowe attempted to film the Rio Grande to find proof of illegal border crossings, as My RGV News reported. She attempted to access the river via a private road on National Butterfly Center property. When center executive director Marianna Trevino Wright asked her to leave, an altercation took place during which Lowe allegedly assaulted Trevino Wright. Lowe denied Trevino Wrights account, but video and audio recordings support the latters version of events.

The center said that Lowe also attempted to run over Trevino Wrights son when leaving the property. Trevino Wright was then advised by a former state official to be either out of town or armed for the duration of the We Stand America event, prompting the centers decision to close.

We still cannot believe we are at the center of this maelstrom of malevolence rising in the United States, the center wrote in its statement.

Most center employees are hourly workers, and they were paid both during the three-day closure and now during the indefinite closure.

We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this may cause to members and visitors, many of whom plan trips months in advance, to experience this truly exceptional place, Trevino Wright said in the most recent statement.
Biden

President Joe Biden speaks at an event to discuss gun violence strategies, at police headquarters on Feb. 3, 2022, in New York. Credit - Alex Brandon  AP

During a Thursday meeting with New York City Mayor Eric Adams, President Joe Biden announced actions for investing in policing and community intervention programs in response to the surge in gun violence in recent years that has impacted many cities across the country, including New York City.

Enough is enough, Biden said.

Gun violence deaths have increased since 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic began. There was a significant rise from 2019 to 2020, when murders rose by nearly 30%. Many cities are still experiencing record-breaking homicide numbers. So far this year, there have been 94 shooting incidents in New York City, compared to 71 in the same period last year.

During the discussion, which featured the leaders from across the city and New York state, Biden and Adams discussed intervention and prevention methods for dealing with gun violence, as well as strategies to curtail the flow of illegal weapons into impacted communities. Earlier in the day, for example, the Department of Justice had announced a new national ghost gun initiative to crack down on the weapons use in crimes. [President Biden] is here because he knows what the American people want: justice, safety and prosperity, Adams said.

The answer is not to abandon our streets, Biden said. The answer is to come together, police and communities, building trust and making us all safer.

In a press statement released the same day, Biden reiterated his calls for Congress to approve an investment of $300 million to fund the hiring of more community police officers and $200 million for evidence-based community violence interventions.

The President knows a complex and devastating challenge like the surge of gun crime weve seen over the last two years requires an ambitious, evidence-based response that uses every tool at our disposal, the statement reads, and thats exactly what his plan does.

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Read more: Americas Policing System Is Broken. Its Time to Radically Rethink Public Safety

This meeting was a week after Adams announced a blueprint to address gun violence in New York City. While his plan featured some more community-oriented plans, it placed a strongand, some have argued, strongeremphasis on policing and other law enforcement strategies. In addition, Adams called for more collaboration will the federal government, something Biden stressed during their meeting discussion today.

I want to help every major city follow New Yorks lead everyday here in New York City, federal, state and local enforcement meet to share intelligence about arrests and shootings from the day before and work to take those shooters off the street as soon as possible, Biden said.

But in following New Yorks lead, activists remain concerned that Biden will be too focused on policing, even when framed as community policing. This is particularly the case given the administrations failure to pass the George Floyd Policing Act, proposed legislation to address policing practices and law enforcement accountability; the New York Times reported just earlier this week that the White House had been working to shore up a potential breach brewing for months between the Biden administration and police leaders.

Adams approach to gun violence isnt aligned with what weve been led to believe are Bidens approaches. Biden committed to ending things that Adams wants to embrace, says Scott Roberts, Senior Director of Criminal Justice Campaigns at Color of Change, a nonprofit civil rights organization. It seems like hes trying to embrace Adams approach. Thats concerning.
RICHMOND  Gov. Glenn Youngkin on Wednesday night emphasized his administrations early activity in Southwest Virginia and reiterated campaign promises to a statewide assembly of rural officials.

Hundreds of local officials from the states agrarian areas descended on the capitol Wednesday to attend the annual Virginia Rural Caucus Reception, hosted in-person this year at the Omni Richmond Hotel.

Addressing a sometimes raucous crowd were the three newly elected Republican members of Virginias executive branch: Attorney General Jason Miyares, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and keynote speaker Youngkin.

Together, were standing up to those things that are most important to rural Virginia, Youngkin said. Its time that we recognize the interests of rural Virginia be represented well.

He said his first few weeks in office have been busy, but also, an absolute ball.

Ive made two trips to Southwest Virginia, Youngkin said. Why? Because its important for rural Virginia to know that their governor is delivering on what government needs to do to help.

Youngkin visited Roanoke in January to tour Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and promote an executive order aimed at adding flexibility to the healthcare system. He was in Abingdon earlier this week, also to highlight health care.

The vast majority of people going into the hospital today for COVID-19 are unvaccinated, Youngkin said. Please get the vaccine. Its the best way to keep yourself safe, to keep your family safe.

Youngkin said the states healthcare system is facing a staffing crisis, on top of an influx of coronavirus hospitalizations. But other matters of health are on his agenda.

We need to comprehensively invest in our mental health and our behavioral health system, Youngkin said. Weve got a lot of work to do to make our community safe, and we can do it together.

Youngkin said he expects to sign into law the largest education budget in state history, investing in teacher pay, programs for children with disabilities and school innovation. He also talked taxation.

Virginias gotten to be way too expensive, Youngkin said. We got to get our taxes down.

He reiterated campaign promises to eliminate the grocery tax, double the standard income tax deduction, suspend a recent five-cent increase to the gas tax, and provide additional tax breaks to retired veterans.

We should have the largest tax rebate in the history of Virginia, Youngkin said. The aggregate of all this is $1,500 for the average family, and its so important for us to get done, to get the cost of living in Virginia down.

In the House of Delegates on Wednesday, a grocery tax repeal bill sponsored by Del. Joe McNamara, R-Roanoke County, passed the House Finance Committee, and was referred to another panel of delegates for further consideration.

Elsewhere, in the Virginia Senate, lawmakers struggled this week with a similar bill to repeal the grocery tax, concerned about removing school funding that comes from the levy.

Prior to Youngkins address, Lt. Gov. Earle-Sears repeated her promise last week to be present in Southwest Virginia and other rural reaches of the state.

Weve heard you during the campaign that you are forgotten in Southwest, Earle-Sears said. Our ticket is not going to forget you.

And Attorney General Miyares told the crowd to continue advocating for rural advancement.

Nothing moves in politics unless its pushed, Miyares said. Its such a critically important component.
(Tribune News Service)  The suspect in the murders of his girlfriend and her 75-year-old father made his first court appearance in Alabama Thursday, where authorities revealed for the first time how the victims were killed.

Sharon Tarwater Whited, 40, was fatally stabbed and shot, according to the capital murder warrant against her boyfriend, John Peyton Scott III. Whiteds father, 75-year-old Navy veteran Chester Chuck Tarwater, was shot to death.

Scott, who was arrested last week in St. Augustine after being on the run for five days, was returned to Shelby County from Florida on Tuesday.

Criminal defense attorney John Beck, who practices in Fairhope, was hired by Scotts family to represent him. Scotts family lives in south Alabama.

Beck said he was just hired and has not yet met privately with Scott to be able to comment on the case.

Scott, wearing an orange jail jumpsuit with shackles on his hands and feet, was engaging with both his attorney and Shelby County Judge Bill Bostick.

Bostick ordered that Scott remain held without bond.

The victims were found dead Jan. 19 in their Helena home. A 12-year-old relative made the discovery shortly after 3 p.m.

Tarwater was a Vietnam veteran who served with the U.S. Navy. He retired from U.S. Steel after 37 years working as a motor transportation supervisor.

Tarwater Whited, a mother of two daughters who was also raising her two nephews after the death of their father, was employed with BLOX as a business system director.

At a press conference one week ago, Helena Police Chief Brad Flynn thanked multiple law enforcement agencies and the community for the assistance and support throughout the investigation. He said the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force played a major role in helping to locate Scott.

Authorities knew Scott was in the St. Augustine area, and had been since shortly after the murder, because license plate readers detected the vehicle in that area.

Lookout bulletins issued before his capture said he was likely to be armed with a long gun and a handgun.

According to the BOLO, Scott was to be considered armed and to be approached with caution. The alert said Scott is known to take antipsychotic and antidepressant medications and known to experience hallucinations.

To the family, Flynn last week said, We cannot begin to understand the grief you feel on the loss of your loved ones.

I hope the news of this arrest will bring you some small semblance of peace during this terrible time. Your family were valued members of our community and their loss is felt throughout the community.

As for a motive, Flynn said, We dont know. I can only speculate and Im not going to talk about that publicly, but thats obviously one of the things me, personally, I would like to know. Why? What would cause an individual to do something like this?

Prior to now, we would have liked to have had the opportunity to sit down with him and discuss what happened, the chief said. We did not receive that.

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The Ministry of Defence has hit back at Priti Patel by saying the Royal Navy and Marines will not be turning back migrants who had crossed the Channel and sending them back to France when they take over the operational control of crossings this month.

The MoD said they would not be enforcing the Home Secretary's push back policy - to turn migrant boats back towards France - after Ms Patel said one of its ministers was wrong to rule out the Navy's involvement in the policy.

Ms Patel had told the Commons Home Affairs Committee on Wednesday that the armed forces minister James Heappey, who had ruled out navy involvement, was 'wrong to say anything specific in regards to work operationally as they're still being planned, that work is not competed yet'.

Asked about plans for the military to take over command of tackling migrant crossings from Border Force, Ms Patel described the work as a 'hybrid role' involving both the Home Office and the MoD and said the 'details are still being worked through'.

Ms Patel was unable to say whether the navy would be involved in push back operations, reiterating that work had not been finalised and was 'still under way'.

But the MoD later said in a post on Twitter: 'The Royal Navy and the Royal Marines will not be using push back tactics in the English Channel, although a military commander will retain the existing ability to instruct Border Force to use them when appropriate. A further update will follow in due course.'

Priti Patel had told the Commons Home Affairs Committee on Wednesday that the armed forces minister James Heappey, who had ruled out navy involvement, was 'wrong to say anything specific in regards to work operationally as they're still being planned, that work is not competed yet'

But the Ministry of Defence hit back at Priti Patel by saying the Royal Navy and Marines will not be turning back migrants who had crossed the Channel and sending them back to France

It confirmed that the government still plans to deploy the push back tactics in the Channel.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is expected to take over command of the operation from Border Force by the end of the month in a move signed off by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The French government has criticised the push back policy, warning that if would breach international law.

And the confirmation that the UK government is still mulling over their use is set to exacerbate tensions between France and Britain over the Channel migrant crisis.

It comes after French President Emmanuel Macron blamed Britain for every migrant who drowns in the English Channel and accused UK politicians of hypocrisy.

A group of migrants picked up by Border Force agents in the Channel arrive in Dover on January 25

UK authorities intercepted or rescued 1,341 people making journey in 46 boats this month

Macron, who is about to launch his campaign for re-election, said he will 'step up' the pressure on Boris Johnson to establish a legal route to Britain for asylum seekers.

He accused the Prime Minister of putting lives in danger because of his migration policy, with record numbers making the perilous journey across the Channel in dinghies.

'The responsibility for those who die at sea does not fall upon France but upon this British refusal,' Macron told French newspaper La Voix du Nord.

The French president said current rules encourage illegal migration and do not allow for asylum seekers to seek lawful ways into the country, pushing migrants to attempt the treacherous crossing instead.

'The British continue to have a system from the 1980s, which manages economic immigration through hypocrisy. There is no legal immigration route,' the French leader said.

He added: 'The British must articulate their needs in terms of the economy and reopen a path to legal asylum requests. We are going to step up the pressure.'

But Ms Patel hit back at Macron over his 'absolutely wrong' claim that all Channel migrant deaths were the fault of the UK.

Emmanuel Macron (left), who is about to launch his campaign for re-election, said he will 'step up' the pressure on Boris Johnson (right) to establish a legal route to Britain for asylum seekers.

She told the Home Affairs Committee on Wednesday: 'Macron's comments are wrong. They're absolutely wrong. So, let me be very, very clear about that.

'Alongside that, I should also say that the French government, the entire French government - both the interior minister and President Macron - are fully aware through the very good work, actually, that our ambassador in Paris and her team does, in terms of number one: the co-operation that we have to have with France to combat the dangerous and unnecessary crossings, dealing with illegal migration, but also working with like-minded partners across Europe. So, those comments are just... wrong.'

The row between France and Britain has rumbled on since the tragic sinking of a dinghy in November last year which led to the deaths of 27 migrants, with both countries placing the blame on the other.

This is a picture of the flimsy and dangerous dinghy that sank off Calais in November last year, killing 27 people including seven women - one of whom was pregnant - and three children

After their deaths, Mr Johnson called on Mr Macron to take back those who had entered Britain illegally, with the British leader saying this would stop migrants from risking their lives crossing the Channel.

But Macron refused and is now pushing for a new agreement between the EU and the UK.

Under President Macron's proposal some migrants would be sent back to France after crossing. But in return British must allow an equal number of asylum seekers in.

It comes as it emerged that six times as many migrants crossed the Channel by boat in January compared with the same period last year.

UK authorities intercepted or rescued 1,341 people, making the perilous journey in 46 boats.

That compares to 223 in 15 boats last year and just 87 in eight boats during the first month of 2020.

The busiest day last month saw 271 migrants arrive in Dover, Kent which was more than in the entirety of January last year.

Three migrants died in Northern France attempting to reach the UK so far this year and 'it's likely that there have been at least two more', according to charity Care4Calais.

A spokesman for the charity which supports refugees in Europe and the UK tweeted: 'All this so early in the year brings home the dangers refugees face, and the appalling fact that our government will not act to stop it.

More than 200 migrants reached the UK in seven boats on January 26 as Border Force agents arrived into dover after picking up those who had crossed the Channel

'To caring people, these tragedies are unbearable; young men who have fled persecution, torture and death dying alone so far from their homes.

'The atrocious spectacle could be ended by the introduction of a system allowing refugees in France to claim asylum in the UK and and receive safe passage.'

The latest figures come amid reports that Prime Minister Boris Johnson has given Home Secretary Priti Patel the go-ahead to develop new powers which would see every male migrant who crosses the Channel detained in a bid to contain the crisis.

According to Ms Patel, seven in ten people who make the perilous crossing to the UK are single men under 40.

She is working closely with Attorney-General Suella Braverman to establish what new powers would be needed to be approved by MPs in order to change the laws on detention.

The government is due to make an announcement next month as part of wider plans for the Royal Navy to take control of Channel crossings.

The busiest day last month saw 271 migrants arrive in Dover, Kent which was more than in the entirety of January 2021

The sinking of a boat in November last year which resulted in the death of 27 people prompted emergency talks between London and Paris as they sought to hammer out an agreement to stop the crossings.

Only two people of the 29 aboard the vessel on November 24 survived in what is believed to be the greatest loss of life from a single migrant crossing on the Channel. The youngest victim was just seven years old.

The deaths furthered the diplomatic row between Britain and France amid the record numbers of migrant crossings.

Macron last month addressed the European Parliament in Strasbourg as France took over the presidency of the EU. He said the EU required a government in London that acts in 'good faith' and live up to agreements with the bloc.

He said: 'Ultimately we cannot solve this problem if the way in which migratory flows as seen from the British side doesn't change.

'Our British friends at the moment are trying to adopt an approach which is the one that prevailed at the start the 1980s is where you've got a level of acceptable economic illegal migration, you allow people to work without papers because it's helpful the economy, but that is doesn't take on board the reality of migratory flows now.

'Secondly, there need to be legal, stable routes to be able to migrate to the UK and this is a situation that we're confronted with. This is a dialogue that we need to pursue with the UK. It's a horrendous humanitarian situation but that's the reality.'

There have been no successful crossings since 39 people made the treacherous trip in one boat last Wednesday - with continuing bad weather set to scupper any attempts over the next few days.

A total of 28,381 migrants made the perilous journey across the Dover Strait in flimsy boats last year - dwarfing the 8,410 who arrived in 2020.

But Home Office officials have warned that this year could see more than 65,000 people arrive in the UK by small boat.

Minister for Justice and Tackling Illegal Migration, Tom Pursglove MP, said: 'People fleeing persecution should seek safety in the first safe country they reach and not risk their lives paying criminal gangs to cross the Channel.

'This Government is reforming our approach to illegal entry to the UK and asylum by making the tough decisions to end the overt exploitation of our laws and its impact on UK taxpayers.

'The public have rightly had enough of the blatant disregard of our immigration laws and we are bringing in necessary long-term*changes.

'The Nationality and Borders Bill will make it a criminal offence to knowingly arrive in the UK illegally and introduce life sentences for those who facilitate illegal entry into the country.'
A former Stoughton man, awaiting sentencing in federal court for bank robberies last year in Stoughton, Madison and Tennessee, tried last month to dig his way out of the Dane County Jail, and torn shirts and bedsheets tied together were also found in his cell, according to a criminal complaint filed Thursday.

After another jail inmate mentioned Todd A. Templetons apparent plot, the complaint states, Templeton called him a (expletive) rat, and lamented, Im tired of all these (expletive) rats in this place.

Templeton, 52, pleaded guilty in November to robbing Associated Bank, 117 King St. in Stoughton, on Feb. 24; Associated Bank, 4407 Cottage Grove Road in Madison, on March 3; and a SunTrust Bank in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on March 11.

Each of the bank robberies carries up to 20 years in prison. Sentencing is set for March 17 before U.S. District Judge William Conley. The new complaint charges Templeton with attempted escape and misdemeanor criminal damage to property. He also faces two vehicle theft charges in Dane County Circuit Court that were filed last summer.

Templeton appeared in court Thursday, where Court Commissioner Karie Cattanach ordered bail set at $500. Assistant District Attorney Cecilia DeMarco said bail was essentially moot, but added Templeton was literally trying to chisel his way out of jail while being held there.

According to the complaint:

On Jan. 13, an inmate in the City-County Building portion of the jail told a deputy, The guy in cell F is trying to get out, referring to Templeton, adding he could hear loud banging noises coming from the cell, as if Templeton was trying to pull the sink or the bunk off the wall. The inmate told the deputy he made a comment to Templeton about what he was doing, and Templeton responded by putting his finger on his lips and saying, Shhhh.

Templeton initially refused to come to his cell door, but once he was taken to another cellblock, deputies found that a 3-foot metal section of his bunk had been removed and sharpened into a chisel that was being used to chip away at a concrete block under Templetons bunk. A hole in the wall was about 6 inches in diameter and several inches deep.

Templeton earlier had been accused of putting another hole in his cell wall and claimed he hadnt done it but told another inmate that since he faced discipline for that, he would actually make a hole that would be worth the discipline.

Deputies also found multiple ripped shirts and bed sheets that were tied together. Some were used to wrap other pieces of metal, including a strip of metal about 6 inches long that had been removed from the mirror in Templetons cell. It was also sharpened.

According to a federal court document, two days after the Stoughton bank robbery, Templeton got into a fight with his brother, stole a snowmobile from a home about a mile away and drove it two miles before crashing it, then was found without shoes on the porch of a town of Dunn home.

He was taken to UW Hospital with exposure injuries. A Stoughton police detective visited Templetons brother and noticed a vehicle parked there was similar to the one used in the bank robbery. Shown a photo of the robber, Templetons brother said it looked like Templeton, the document states.

On March 2, Templeton left UW Hospital against medical advice, went to his brothers home and took his pickup truck.

The next day, the Associated Bank on Cottage Grove Road was robbed by a man fitting Templetons description. Templetons brother identified his truck from city street video as one seen in the vicinity of the robbery and identified his brother from video stills taken inside the bank. Templetons DNA also matched DNA recovered from a note left during the robbery, according to the document.

After the bank robbery in Chattanooga, FBI agents found Templeton in Bradley County, Tennessee, just east of Chattanooga. He admitted committing the bank robbery there, the document states.
Editor

Zaldy Dandan is the recipient of the Best Editorial Writer Award of the Society of Professional Journalists, and the CNMI Humanities Award for Outstanding Contributions to Journalism. His four books are available on amazon.com
If Ofgems decision yesterday to hike domestic energy bills from April by almost 700 confirmed one thing for us, it should be that now, more than ever, we must rapidly work towards energy security.

Indeed, it doesnt have to be this way. As British households worry how they are going to keep warm, Americans remain as happy as Larry.

In the US electricity prices currently average $0.15 (11.2p) per kWh (kilowatt-hour)  little more than half the average of $0.28 (20.6p) per kWh in Britain. And that is before you account for Ofgems price rise.

So why is it so expensive over here?

The answer is prices are kept affordable for Americans because of an energy policy which prioritises self-sufficiency.

Graphic shows where the United Kingdom imports its energy from. The UK and Europe now find themselves trapped in a perilous price hike

By exploiting vast shale gas reserves, America escapes the whims of international markets. Europe and the UK, on the other hand, now find themselves trapped in a perilous price hike.

For a variety of reasons, international wholesale prices are soaring  not least because of artificially implemented pressure from President Vladimir Putin, who is said to be inflating the price of gas coming out of Russia.

And yet, this mess makes little sense when Britain is sitting on ample gas, oil and coal reserves.

Where did it all go wrong?

Britains energy problems can largely be traced back to then Energy Secretary Ed Milibands Climate Change Act of 2008, which legally committed Britain to cut carbon emissions by 80 per cent by 2050.

In 2019, then Prime Minister Theresa May upped that target to going net-zero (fully carbon-neutral) by 2050. Boris Johnson has maintained that goal.

Yet as we continue to close coal plants, switch to electric and ramp up inefficient renewables we place ourselves even more in the clutches of those we import from.

Here, we provide an audit of all the energy we dont need to be importing  and reveals the huge British reserves we should be using to avoid an energy crisis like this.

As British households worry how they are going to keep warm due to the hike in domestic energy bills from April, Americans remain as happy as Larry

Where we import our energy from

Coal: The Government has pledged to phase out the last coal-fired power station by 2024, yet for now we are still heavily dependent on coal when wind and solar power fail.

In 2020, 45 per cent of that coal was imported  in spite of Britain sitting on several hundred years worth of reserves.

We imported 4.5million tonnes of coal in 2020. (One tonne is enough to power one home for about 100 days). Some 2.4million tonnes of that was steam coal (used in power stations) and 2.1million tonnes was coking coal (used for steel production).

It should be at least mildly concerning that Russia was the single biggest source of our imports, shipping 1.62million tonnes to us. The US sent us 990,000 tonnes and Venezuela 945,000 tonnes.

Britains energy problems can largely be traced back to then Energy Secretary Ed Milibands Climate Change Act of 2008, which legally committed Britain to cut carbon emissions by 80 per cent by 2050

Oil: Twenty years ago Britain was self-sufficient in oil. No longer. We produced 49million tonnes of oil in 2020 but had to import 63.7million tonnes. (One tonne is enough to power 500 homes for a day).

Again, this is despite huge reserves under the seas surrounding Britain. Our biggest sources of oil were Norway (14.2million tonnes), the US (13million tonnes), Russia (8.2million tonnes) and the Netherlands (6million tonnes).

Gas: In 2020, Britain produced 439 TWh (terawatt hours) worth of gas but imported 478 TWh. For context, about 30 TWh would provide every home in London with electricity for a year.

More than half the imported gas came to us via pipelines from Europe  with Norway sending the most at 263 TWh. We also imported 97TWh from Qatar, 53TWh from the US and 25TWh from Russia.

The Government likes to try to reassure us this means very little comes from Russia, but thats hardly the case.

Britain lies at the western end of a European gas grid, powered in large part by Russian gas pipes. If Russian gas were to be withheld at the eastern end we couldnt continue drawing-off gas from Europe.

Electricity: Britains generating capacity actually fell by 2.7 per cent in 2020  in spite of all our wind and solar farms. And so, Britain imports large quantities of electricity from European power stations, via undersea cables.

In the US electricity prices currently average $0.15 (11.2p) per kWh (kilowatt-hour)  little more than half the average of $0.28 (20.6p) per kWh in Britain. And that is before you account for Ofgems price rise

We also export electricity (the cables automatically work in both directions and the energy flow shifts to deal with demand).

But on the whole we are a net importer. In 2020, 8.7TWh came from France, 4.1TWh from the Netherlands and 4.9TWh from Belgium.

Energy reserves Britain chooses not to use

Oil and gas: The Oil and Gas Authority says proven and probable reserves of oil and gas under the North Sea extend to the equivalent of 5.2billion barrels of oil  about 70 per cent is oil and 30 per cent gas. That would be enough to sustain UK production at current levels for 20 years.

Shale: There is a wealth of shale gas sitting beneath our feet. We could have started exploiting this years ago, but the Government wilted in the face of environmental protesters and a number of minor tremors. Since then most of the propaganda against fracking has proven baseless.

Yet the industry remains in abeyance. According to a 2013 estimate, there could be over 2,000trillion cubic feet, while an estimate from 2019 put viable reserves closer to 140trillion cubic feet. Even that lower estimate would keep Britain going for 47 years.

By exploiting vast shale gas reserves, America escapes the whims of international markets. Europe and the UK, on the other hand, now find themselves trapped in a perilous price hike

Coal: No one wants to go back to the days when Britain ran on coal. But, on the other hand, we are still laughably reliant on coal imports.

This surely makes little economic sense  and hardly means we can call ourselves green. According to the trade body Euracoal there are at least 3.9billion tonnes of coal reserves left in Britain  enough for 500 years of energy.

Nuclear: As for nuclear, the industry is wasting away  in spite of the construction of the long-delayed Hinkley Point C plant in Somerset.

There are now just six working nuclear power stations left in Britain. All are scheduled to close by 2035.

Nuclear represents a huge potential energy source. It is extremely efficient and has a very low carbon footprint. Small modular reactors are a particularly exciting emerging market that could be used for mini-plants across the UK.
News at 4Cs

4Cs Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program Hosts Career Fair for Students, Alumni

More than 70 students and alumni from the Cape Cod Community College Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program gathered at the Colleges facilities at Plymouth Municipal Airport for a first-of-its-kind Career Fair on February 2, 2022.

Current students in the renowned program, along with several recent alumni, were able to speak directly with aviation professionals from businesses that are currently hiring. Among those employers were CommutAir, Cape Air, Port City Air, PlaneSense, Inc., Bombardier, Republic Airways, United Airways, Heritage Turbines, Inc., American Airlines, PSA, and G.E. Aviation.

Our AMT students and graduates are well known in the aviation industry as having world-class talent and career-ready skills, said Michael Sasso, Director of the AMT program at the College. It was thrilling to get to see so many employers meet them directly and see for themselves just how talented and well prepared our students are when they graduate from our AMT program. Giving employers the chance to be a part of our world class training facility, while surrounded by the amazing aircraft and equipment our students train on, made it even more special.

Prior to the Career Fair, program staff and faculty also met with employers and local officials for an overview of the AMT program, and a tour of the classrooms and three hangars the make up the educational and training facilities at the Airport. Since launching in September 2016, the AMT program at 4Cs has served more than 225 students, with over 80% going straight into careers either before or immediately following graduation.

The AMT program at 4Cs is a unique, 24-month program that trains students to become highly skilled technicians in airframe and powerplant repair and certification, including full FAA certification utilizing the most recent airmen certification standards and a very well-seasoned and strongly rooted aviation based faculty. Our location at Plymouth Municipal Airport, allows the program to be the only one of its kind locally, providing an Associate in Applied Sciences degree and certificate options in aviation maintenance at a public community college.

Enrollment in the AMT program is a great value proposition as it allows students have access to financial aid, scholarships, and can even utilize housing options at Bridgewater State University to complete their experience and make the process of earning a federal trade certification and a college degree both affordable and attainable simultaneously, while leading them to a very lucrative career start in aviation.
What comes to mind when you think of foster care? Maybe you picture a book or movie about a child struggling to stay out of trouble, or you call to mind a story of abuse or neglect so harrowing it becomes an evening news headline. Perhaps you think of a family in your community who seem to have a revolving door in their home where children come and go.

These stories paint an incomplete picture of foster careone without the true narrative of Gods work in the midst of sorrow. Loss and hope. No one will deny the challenges of working within an imperfect system, but when we look deeper, we find a litany of beautiful truths that call us to reflect Jesus love for the vulnerable by caring for children who are made in Gods image that need love, safety and support.

A great way to have a better understanding of foster care is to begin with a recognition of five myths that frequently cloud our perception.

Myth 1: Foster care is too hard.

Foster care is challenging, just like any other human relationshipmaintaining a healthy marriage, raising children, and holding down a job while dealing with difficult coworkers. But Jesus does not call us to the wide, well-traveled road. He calls us to pursue a life of obedience and rely on Gods strength when we are weak. His yoke is easy and His burden is light not because He keeps us from hard things, but because He supplies our every need in Christ Jesus when we endure difficulty. Challenges can bring about tremendous growth, and the promise of a life in Christ is that we never bear our burdens alone.

Foster care offers the opportunity to position the Gospel front and center, through our actions and words to parents who are hurting, children who are in need of hope, case managers who are overloaded, and a child welfare system that needs help and grace. In the movie A League of Their Own, Tom Hanks character tells one of his players who wants to quit, If it were easy, everybody would do it. Hard is what makes it great. Foster care is great!

Myth 2: Children are put into foster care because of something they did.

When we speak about how broken the system is, they tend to forget that the entire point of foster care is to care for childrenchildren who are experiencing deep trauma because of other peoples choices. Many children who enter foster care have been abused, abandoned, or neglected. Oftentimes, due to the trauma they have experienced, they struggle to understand and accept pure, unconditional love. As Christians, we have a remarkable opportunity to reflect the love of Christ to children whose hearts long to be comforted. A warm bed, food security, a positive learning environment, a caring guardian, and gentle voices and hands cannot undo all of the suffering that children in foster care have experienced, but they can all serve as acts of healing.

How we speak about foster care matters a great deal. Our language is a starting point for centering the dignity of everyone involved. Foster kids is a label that carries far too many undeserving, unfortunate, and damaging stereotypes, including the long-held and incorrect notion that a childs behavior can be the catalyst that causes them to enter the foster care system. We can shift thinking by using terms like children in foster care instead.

We can also affect change in the perception of foster care by being more intentional about how we discuss biological parents. Many times, the parents of children in foster care are caught up in generational cycles of broken relationships, poverty, and trauma. Without strong support systems, compounded stress can lead to neglectful and abusive behaviors. Ideally, foster parents have the opportunity to walk alongside biological families to lend the well-rooted community and affirming extended family that is missing from their lives.

Myth #3: Empty-nesters are too old to be involved.

You are never too old to set a new goal or dream a new dream. The Bible describes wisdom as being more precious than gold, and empty-nesters can find encouragement in the stories of Sarah, Naomi, and Annapeople whose lives reflected purpose and passion in their later years.

Through this lens, it is easy to see that empty-nesters are uniquely equipped to be foster parents, especially to teens. Such parents have learned through experience, already having raised their own children to adulthood, and they also may have financial flexibility that younger people do not.

Even if older people cannot commit to foster parenting, the adventure of foster care is best lived out in the midst of communal fellowship. Foster parents thrive when the local church and neighborhood leaders play dynamic support roles through providing encouragement, prayer, and resources. Empty-nesters make great babysitters and respite care providers when foster parents need a break. They can serve as de facto aunts and uncles or grandparents to children who desperately need positive role models and familial relationships. They can offer a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and a pat on the back when children in foster care and foster parents need love and support.

Myth #4: You have to be married to foster.

Some of the most incredible foster parents are single parents. Empathy, compassion, patience, flexibility, and forgiveness are certainly not qualities limited to those with spouses. Single foster parents often have a special appreciation for the value of camaraderie, friendship, and unconditional love, which translates well to caring for children from lonely or difficult situations.

A circle of support can take many formsa marriage, absolutely, but also a friend group, a church family, and community involvement. Marriage is not a prerequisite for fostering, and churches have a great opportunity to come alongside single people within their congregations to foster by committing to support them along the way.

Myth #5: The only way to engage in foster care is by becoming a foster parent.

At any given time over the last decade, there have been over 400,000 children in care in the United States of America. The time and energy it takes to care for that many people could not be shouldered by foster parents alonenor should it be. Every person has skills, abilities, and resources that can play a crucial role in meeting the needs of vulnerable children in their communities. For some, that means saying yes to the call of becoming foster parents. For others, it means wrapping around foster families with love, prayers, and resources.

At One More Child, we created the Foster Crew model of engagement, which empowers church families to make a lasting impact on foster families in their church and their community in simple and effective ways. If you can mow lawns, do laundry, cook meals, or send notes of encouragement, then you can make a vital difference in the lives of families and children in foster care.

What do you enjoy doing? What does your schedule look like in this season? The answers to these questions can help you begin to identify ways you might support the foster care community around you. Call upon the Holy Spirit to provide the guidance and wisdom that every one of us needs to walk into difficult challenges and see God change the trajectories of lives and eternities.

Whether through a monthly grocery delivery, a weekly babysitting session, or a daily commitment as a foster parent, caring for children in foster care is a mission the Church must own and prioritize to see families restored and communities strengthened. Ask God what you can do to help.

Foster care is not just about some of us opening our homes to meet the needs of hurting children. It is about all of us living out the mission of the Church by making sure that every vulnerable child, displaced biological parent and loving foster family know there is support and hope during even the darkest times. Then, we can all prepare to witness and experience incredible stories of redemption!

Dr. Jerry Haag is the president/CEO of One More Child. During his tenure as president, he has guided the expansion of ministry sites from nine locations in Florida to more than 50 locations around the globe. Dr. Haag brings extensive leadership to public policy platforms through his work at the White House in Washington D.C, through his appointment as the chairman of the Florida Governors Faith-Based Advisory Council, and through close partnerships with top leaders around the world. Dr. Haag and his wife, Christi, live in Lakeland, FL, and are proud parents to their sons Ben and Brady.
Egypt celebrate reaching another Afcon final (Getty)

Goalkeeper Mohamed Abou Gabaski Gabal pulled off two spectacular saves as Egypt edged hosts Cameroon 3-1 in the penalty shootout to reach the final of Africa Cup of Nations following a goalless draw after extra time on Thursday.

Cameroon converted only one of their four spot-kicks, with Gabaski as blocking two of the strikes before Clinton Njie missed his attempt. Egypt converted all three of their kicks.

Egypt will be aiming to win a record-extending eighth Cup of Nations title when they face Senegal in Sundays final.

But they will be without coach Carlos Queiroz, who is suspended for the final after being sent off in Thursdays second half for persistent touchline petulance.

Reuters
NSW and Victoria have both recorded another drop in Covid-19 cases as hospitalisations from the Omicron outbreak continue to plummet.

NSW recorded 10,698 cases and 31 deaths on Friday while 11,240 infections and 36 deaths were reported south of the border in Victoria.

New infections in NSW declined by almost 2,000 from the 12,632 reported 24 hours earlier.

Around 2,494 NSW cases are being treated in hospital, down from 2578 reported on Thursday, while ICU admissions remain steady at 160.

New cases and hospitalisations have dropped in NSW and Victoria in the last 24 hours (pictured Sydneysider in Circular Quay)

In Victoria, new infections declined by almost 1,000 in the last 24 hours as hospitalisations dropped from 752 to 707, its lowest figure since January 7.

ICU admissions in Victoria dropped by three to 79.

Around 42.8 per cent of the eligible NSW population aged over-18 have now have their third booster shot with Victoria just behind on 42 per cent.

Of the 10,698 NSW cases, 6,122 were detected on a rapid antigen test while 7,531 Victorians self-reported their positive RATs.

NSW Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres is confident the ban on singing and dancing would be lifted by the end of the month.

'We think that we're getting through the worst of Omicron,' he told an industry event on Thursday.

'We have to live with Covid, we can't let this lock us in our homes.'

2,494 NSW cases are being treated in hospital, down from 2578 reported 24 hours earlier (pictured, testing clinic in Sydney)

Meanwhile in Victoria, Premier Daniel Andrews has hinted the state's hated mask mandate could remain indefinitely as Covid still remains 'challenging' for the state to manage.

Victorians are also still living under vaccine mandates, meaning only those who are double-jabbed can go to bars, restaurants or retail venues.

The state's school surveillance testing program continues to pick up cases among students and staff in the first week of classes in 2022.

Covid cases in hospitals across Victoria dropped to 702 on Friday, the lowest figure since January 7 (pictured paramedic outside Melbourne's St Vincent's Hospital)

About 1000 students and 79 staff returned a positive test from 4pm on Tuesday to 4pm on Wednesday, up from 682 students and 63 staff in the previous 24-hour window.

Mr Andrews said the cases are worth keeping kids in school after two Covid-disrupted years.

'It's a price or a cost of getting our kids back into the classroom. But the value and the worth of that is just huge,' he told reporters.
Nigerian Students Poetry Prize, an initiative of Poets in Nigeria (PIN), is accepting submissions for the 2022 edition.

The Nigerian Students Poetry Prize aimed at stimulating literary creativity and encouraging critical thinking invites Nigerian undergraduates studying in recognised Nigeria and international tertiary institutions to submit their entries for consideration.

The seventh edition of the Nigerian Students Poetry Prize (NSPP) opens for submission between January 15 and March 7, 2022.

Interested Nigerian undergraduates are expected to submit a 30-line poem on any theme of their choice.

An entrant is entitled to a single entry of 30 lines maximum, which must be previously unpublished and written in English. Native terminologies must be translated into English as footnotes.

The organisers say any submission discovered to have defaulted on this rule will be automatically voided.

All entrants are expected to purchase a minimum of one of the six NSPP anthologies uploaded on the submission portal between May 1, 2021, and April 31, 2022 (the last day of submission).

Submissions are to be made at http://nspp.poetsinnigeria.org.ng, strictly adhering to the instructions thereon.

Entrants should write on any theme of their choice while considering its topicality, just as the poems must be the original intellectual property of the entrants.

Reward

Aside from rewarding the prize winners with a total cash prize of 500,000, exceptional entrants will each receive a certificate of excellence and a complimentary copy of the NSPP anthology, which features their works.

The statement said: The first Prize  200,000, second Prize  150,000, third Prize  75,000. Consolation Prize  25,000 each for fourth, fifth, and sixth-best entrants.

Since its inception in 2016 at the University of Ibadan, the organisers have received about 3500 entries from students representing over 100 tertiary institutions (including universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, nursing, and seminary schools).

Reputed as the top poetry prize for Nigerian students, the NSPP has awarded N2 million to winning entrants and published 541 poems authored by selected entrants in six anthologies.

They include The Sun Will Rise Again (2016), Mixed History (2017), Deep Dreams (2018, Micah (2019), The House That Built Me (2020), and Portrait of Water (2021).

Notable winners

Notably, tertiary institutions such as the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu and Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Yenagoa hosted the NSPP Awards in 2017, 2018, and 2019 respectively. The award was held at the University of Ibadan in 2021 while a cash prize of N400,000 was shared among the winners.

Previous grand prize winners of the NSPP include Noah Oladele (Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife; 2016), Bakre Fadil Adedamola (University of Ibadan; 2017), Godstime Tamunofiri Iberiyenari (Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Yenagoa; 2018), Ogugua Micah Okoye (Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu; 2019), Okwubi Godwin Adah (University of Benin; 2020) and Samuel A. Adeyemi (Federal University, Lokoja; 2021).
The Ship Owners and Agents Association, Ghana (SOAAG) is asked to evacuate about 200 empty containers from the state warehouse in the Port of Tema, back into the custody of the various shipping lines.

Due to uncleared cargoes, many containers had been left sitting in the Tema Port, creating congestion and leading to negative revenue implications for the government and shipping lines, who are custodians or owners of these containers as it slows down maritime trade.

Madam Perpetual Osei Bonsu, Executive Secretary of SOAAG, interacting with the media on the issue, said the evacuation was necessary following years of effort to have it done and clear the Port.

She said in the past containers were being used for warehousing to support the system due to the lack of enough warehouses to take over the cargo.

Mr Mark Klutse, Chairman of the Technical Committee of SOAAG, on his part, explained that the non-returning of containers had dire consequences on the business of shipping lines.

He said while uncleared cargoes were not the making of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the expectation was that Customs would expedite processes following its detention.

Mr Klutse stressed that you have situations where containers have been moved to state warehouse and have been there for three to four years, and you would see containers which are 30 to 40 days being auctioned and one will ask why?

The executives of SOAAG also called for the rehabilitation of the state warehouse to better accommodate uncleared cargo.

GNA
National Unity Government urges the Hague court not to recognize the junta as the countrys representative.

Myanmar's leader Aung San Suu Kyi sits in the court room of the International Court of Justice for the first day of three days of hearings in The Hague, Netherlands, Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2019.

Former Myanmar lawmakers who operate as a shadow government since a military coup a year ago said they now accept the authority of the top international court to decide if a 2016-17 campaign against Rohingya Muslims in the country constituted a genocide.

The National Unity Government (NUG) said in a statement Tuesday that that it would withdraw all preliminary objections in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) case over Myanmars military operations against the Rohingya in 2016 and 2017, a scorched-earth campaign that forced 730,000 Rohingya to flee Rakhine state, mostly to neighboring Bangladesh.

The parallel government asked that it and not the ruling military junta that took over Myanmar in the Feb. 1, 2021 putsch represent the country before the court.

In 2019, then-leader Aung San Suu Kyi staunchly defended the Myanmar military against genocide and crimes against humanity charges in 2019 at the International Court of Justice in The Hague in the case brought forth by Gambia.

Aung San Suu Kyi and her spokesman insisted at the time that no genocide had occurred in Rakhine state, and said that a Myanmar government investigation found war crimes and serious human rights violations had occurred during counter-terrorism operations in the area, but there was no genocidal intent.

The Gambia case charges that Myanmar violated the 1948 Genocide Convention during the alleged expulsion of Rohingya to Bangladesh. The hearing on the objections was scheduled to begin Feb. 21.

In Tuesdays statement, the NUGs acting President Duwa Lashi La said the group was the proper representative of Myanmar in the case, urging the court not to recognize the junta that deposed the government.

It would set a dangerous precedent and be inconsistent with the position of the U.N. General Assembly for the ICJ to accept the military junta as the representative of Myanmar. The NUG strongly believes that it would also be detrimental to the interests of Myanmar and the people of Myanmar and to the cause of justice for the Rohingya people, the statement said.

Should the ICJ recognize the military, it would embolden the junta to continue and escalate its daily atrocity crimes, it said.

The statement is a good sign, Tun Khin, a Rohingya activist from the London-based Burmese Rohingya Organization UK, told RFAs Myanmar Service.

The military council has been committing killings and atrocities in other ethnic states including Chin, Kachin or Kayin states. I think conditions are heading toward committing genocide against these ethnic groups. So, I think NUGs reversal on the objection of genocidal charges earlier is good for the future, Tun Khin said.

I think NUGs decision to cooperate with international legal body is a sign of optimism.

But the NUG lacks the power to withdraw the objections, Nandaw Thar Ba, a Buddhist monk from Sittwe, Rakhine state, and chairman of the nationalist group Ma Ba Tha, told RFA.

The NUG cannot recant its earlier position because NUG is not a legitimate government, he said. The military is now ruling party of the country. The military council has more authority on this issue. No country has formally recognized NUG so far.

Nandaw Thar Ba noted that Aung San Suu Kyi has never formally relinquished her rights as Myanmars legal representative in the case and might not even be aware the NUG is recanting her arguments.

Recanting of arguments at the ICJ breaks new ground, Min Lwin Oo, a human rights attorney, told RFA.

The NUG has abandoned the option for the defense entirely and wants to restart the entire trial from the beginning. It is up to ICJ on whether they will allow it or not, he said.

RFA contacted the juntas spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, the NUGs human rights minister, Aung Myo Min, and the NUG-endorsed ambassador to the U.N., Kyaw Moe Htun, but none were available for comment as of Wednesday evening.

Rohingya refugees queue for aid at Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, September 26, 2017. Photo: REUTERS

Rohingya activist groups in Bangladesh also welcomed the NUG statement.

Aung San Suu Kyis National Unity Governments withdrawal of its previous objection to the International Court of Justice is an encouraging development for us, Md Jubair, secretary of the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights, told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service Wednesday.

This withdrawal, I think, would bring the verdict in favor of the Rohingya.  It would formally establish the fact at the international level that the Myanmar military has been carrying out systematic torture, persecution and genocide against the Rohingya, said Jubair, adding that the decades-old persecution of the Rohingya could finally cease if the case goes their way.

Dil Mohammad, a Rohingya leader living in the frontier land along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, told BenarNews that the withdrawal of the objections could expediate a trial.

If everything goes in the right direction, the Rohingya will get justice through the ICJ, Dil Mohammad said.

But he said support from the international community was more important.

Unless there is international pressure on the Myanmar government, the Rohingya will never be able to return to our homeland, even if the judgement from the ICJ goes in our favor, Dil Mohammad said.

The military junta has been trying to get recognition from the international community. It has been engaging with the ICJ by every six months, submitting reports on the Rohingya situation, Reuters reported.

If it regains power from the military, the NUG in June 2021 pledged to grant citizenship to the Myanmars ethnic Rohingya. But it said more discussion would be needed to determine whether the Rohingya community will be recognized as a national ethnic group.

Additional reporting by Sunil Barua in Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, and Kamran Reza Chowdhury in Dhaka. Translated by Ye Kaung Myint Maung. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
A young lieutenant staged his gear at the Fort Bragg, North Carolina, airfield on Thursday -- awaiting the C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft that would take him and his troops to Europe amid one of the first major faceoffs between the U.S. and Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union. This is his first deployment, and it came with virtually no notice.

"It's excited nervousness," he said. "My grandfather was in the 82nd; my dad was also at Bragg for a while. So this means a lot that I can be here. My dad reached out and said congratulations."

Military.com was granted access to the soldiers deploying to Europe, on the condition they not be named. Troops shuffled into the airfield's staging area, where they ate breakfast; grabbed water and Meals, Ready-to-Eat; and boarded a plane to cross the Atlantic with no clear schedule for when they will return home.

Read Next: ISIS Leader Detonated Suicide Bomb Killing Family as Troops Closed In, US Military Says

The first wave of some 2,000 U.S. troops to beef up NATO's warfighting capacity in eastern Europe deployed from Fort Bragg, tasked with deterring any plans Russian President Vladimir Putin might have to conquer Ukraine using the 130,000-strong force he's amassed in surrounding countries.

Paratroopers departed on a C-17 around noon Thursday. Troops were placed on heightened alert last week by the Biden administration and told to prepare to rapidly deploy as Russia has built up forces near several countries' borders with Ukraine. Russia has demanded that Ukraine be barred from ever joining NATO.

Troops from Fort Bragg are set to deploy to Germany and Poland, far from the front lines of Ukraine -- and the danger from any initial blitz by Russian troops.

Another 8,500 troops are still on a so-called heightened alert, including those with the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The alert order also included units at bases in Arizona, Texas, Washington state, Louisiana, Georgia and Ohio.

Many of the Bragg troops are part of the Army's Immediate Response Force -- a rotating contingent of service members who are permanently on standby and serve as America's 911 emergency responders. The goal is to be able to deploy within about 18 hours. That responsibility and heightened readiness shifts between units at Bragg about every six months. In practice, this means soldiers have to have their bags packed, weapons prepped and all their personal affairs in order to respond anywhere in the world with little warning.

"This is what being in the 82nd is all about, being the face of the nation. So we take it very seriously; it's a humbling experience when the nation calls and you need to perform your best," an infantry captain, and Afghanistan war veteran, told Military.com. "It's an incredible opportunity to be here."

Most of the Bragg assets being deployed consist of administrative personnel and ground combat units -- no heavy armored vehicles or attack aircraft. The deployment is relatively small compared to the force Russia has built up on the Ukrainian border -- one that could bring cataclysmic conflict.

"The United States stands shoulder to shoulder with our NATO allies," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said at a media briefing Wednesday. "The current situation demands that we reinforce the deterrent and defensive posture on NATO's eastern flank."

There are currently no plans to bolster Ukraine's front lines with U.S. troops. Roughy 150 Florida National Guard troops from the 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat team are in Ukraine on a training mission. However, those Guardsmen are on the other side of the country, far from Russian forces -- which include tanks, artillery and warships.

Meanwhile, more troops at Fort Bragg are gearing up and staging at the base's airfield for flights expected to continue throughout the week.

-- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon.

Related: NATO Says Russian Buildup in Belarus Is Biggest in 30 Years
TWO Limerick hopefuls looking for love on First Dates Ireland met very different fates, having been greeted by exactly their types across the table.

First up on tonight's episode was Mungret man David (27), a self-professed nice guy who took a cold glass of whiskey to cool his nerves, while waiting on his date.

Shy and unassuming, he was stunned by the beauty of Zoe Hendrick (25) from Cork, who had previously entered the Miss Ireland beauty competition.

Both bad at flirting they quickly found common ground, discussing their love for the Marvel movie series.

David added that he too, had some experience at beauty pageants, having once acted as an escort at the Rose of Tralee.

Next up was Ellie Dunne (18) from Rathkeale, who, decided to go on the show due to being the only singleton within her friend group.

Her first words were: Im here to find a fella. There are no fellas in my town. Theres no fellas in general.

She told the bartender at the Coda Eatery in the Gibson Hotel in Dublin, where the show is filmed, that she wanted someone who was funny and can talk for Ireland.

The County Limerick woman also disclosed that she had been attempting to perfect her pole dancing skills, having brought one into the house during the lockdown.

She was greeted with exactly that, as Wexford man Cian (20) walked in. He informed audiences that he has two personas, just Cian and DJ Ciano.

The pair hit it off straight away, and whether it was love or lust, they bonded over their passion for nights out and their tendency to stop seeing someone after a month or two.

They agreed to head together to one of DJ Cianos upcoming gigs, where Ellie. who told the audience she was a bit of a catch would throw some shapes.

Cian or DJ Ciano as he may have been at that moment in time, told her that he loved her Limerick accent.

After their date, while taking up the hot seats for the ultimate question, they both agreed to see each other again.

An update revealed that they had went on a surprise second date to the Cliffs of Moher, after the filming of episode 5.

There were cupid arrows sticking out of both Mungret man David and his date Zoe, as they took the hot seats, agreeing to see each other again.

Unfortunately for them, an update for viewers revealed that despite enthusiastically agreeing to a second date, they would remain friends.
More than 8 in 10 people in Irelands new mobile workforce could be missing out on up to 100 per year by not claiming Work from Home tax relief. This is according to the latest Taxback.com taxpayer sentiment survey which sought to understand why most of those who work from home have not availed of the relief.

The tax refund specialists also questioned the understanding of 1,200 taxpayers from their own database of how the relief works in practice, and it was found that the majority (77%) do not fully understand its application when it comes to a house-share situation.

Barry Cahill of Taxback.com spoke of the findings: According to a Revenue Tax Strategy Group (TSG) paper on working from home released in 2021, 875,000 people are estimated as having been remote workers. However, just 90,000 people made a claim for tax relief for working from home expenses as of May this year  so just 10% of those who are eligible."

In Taxback.com's survey, only 17% of the respondents who work from home said they had claimed the relief.

"We have been advising any clients working from home to collate their bills and claim this relief. Anyone not doing so is missing out on free money, and while the amounts may be small, its hard to understand why anyone would not want this money in their pocket instead of leaving it with the taxman.

The Taxback.com survey asked:

Of those who have worked from home - have you claimed the working from home tax relief?

- No I dont claim/ havent claimed the relief (42%)

- No, I havent claimed because I dont really know how to (33%)

- No, I havent claimed  no intention to do so (8%)

- Yes, I have claimed (17%)

Remote workers are entitled to a tax-free payment of 3.20 per day from their employer to cover the additional costs of their utility and broadband bills. For those whose employers have not been in a position to make this payment, a claim on Remote Working relief allows people to claim back a portion of their utility and broadband bills for each day they work from home.

Remote working relief allows people to claim for tax relief of 10% of the cost of electricity and heating incurred and 30% of the cost of broadband occurred  apportioned over the number of days a person worked from home over the course of the year.
Lawsuits involving Cardinal Innovations and Richard Topping Jr., its fired chief executive, appear to have reached the settlement stage, according to filings submitted Thursday to the N.C. Court of Appeals.

Cardinal, based in Charlotte, had operated as the states largest behavioral health managed care organization covering 20 counties  including Alamance, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Rockingham and Stokes counties in the Triad.

Counsels for Cardinal and Topping said the parties agreed Jan. 27 to a settlement in principle on Cardinals lawsuit against Topping and Toppings countersuit. No terms were disclosed in the filings.

Topping is serving as chief legal officer for CareSource, a managed-care services provider based in Dayton, Ohio.

In March 2018, a newly constituted Cardinal board of directors sued Topping as part of an attempt to claw-back, or recover, $1.68 million in severance that the previous board paid to Topping.

The board has been pursuing altogether about $3.8 million in paid severance from four former Cardinal officials.

Cardinal reimbursed the state the $3.8 million from administrative funds.

About an hour after Cardinal filed its lawsuit against Topping in Mecklenburg Superior Court, an investigator hired by the Cardinal board, Kurt Meyers, disclosed his findings in a press conference.

On May 30, 2018, Topping sued the former federal prosecutor for libel and slander, claiming Meyers presentation was misleading and false. That lawsuit came 15 days after Topping countersued Cardinal.

According to Thursdays filings, the necessary papers are now being prepared to finalize the global settlement.

The parties requested the courts permission to have until March 10 to file that agreement. The current filing deadline is Tuesday.

Cardinal agreed on June 1, 2021, to being taken over by Vaya Health of Asheville by June 30, 2022.

That merger occurred in part in response to several county boards of commissioners, including Davidson, Davie, Forsyth and Rockingham, gaining permission in fall 2021 by then-state Health Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen to move to another MCO.

The common denominator among the commissioners is they had lost faith in Cardinals ability to manage care for their residents.

Controversial reign

Cardinal, at its peak, had responsibility for more than 850,000 Medicaid recipients and more than $675 million in federal and state Medicaid funding.

The firing of Topping in November 2017 represented the climax of regulatory and legal probes into his performance as Cardinals top executive.

The Cardinal board was revamped in large part because Cohen determined the previous board, led by chairwoman Lucy Drake, had acted inappropriately in paying severance to Topping and other Cardinal executives as part of their dismissals.

Topping was terminated without cause by the previous Cardinal board on Nov. 17, 2017, which allowed him to receive a $1.68 million, two-year severance package. The board also allowed Topping to continue his duties through Nov. 30, 2017.

Cohen stepped in on Nov. 27, 2017, to formally remove Topping and disband the Cardinal board.

State law permits the health secretary to remove the chief executive and the board of a behavioral-health MCO if the secretary determines that the agency demonstrates serious financial mismanagement or serious regulatory noncompliance.

Topping faces seven claims in the Cardinal lawsuit: breach of contract; breach of fiduciary duties; breach of implied duty of good faith and fair dealing (in his role as CEO); conversion (deleting data from Cardinal-owned devices and not returning Cardinal electronic property); unjust enrichment; constructive trust (knowingly accepting overpayments in severance); and constructive fraud (taking without permission highly confidential Cardinal financial and operational data).

The revamped Cardinal board complaint called Toppings severance excessive and unlawful payments. Topping also was paid as much as $635,000 in annual salary  more than three times the $204,000 permitted by state law.

Topping and Drake and the previous Cardinal board had for years viewed the agency as an independent contractor as part of state Medicaid reform.

As such, they claimed Cardinal gained financial and business flexibility from the legislature beyond those of the other behavioral-health MCOs.

That included, they claim, being allowed to build up its fund balance from what was supposed to be prudent cost-cutting not harmful to Medicaid recipient services.

State Auditor Beth Wood said in a May 2017 audit ordered by a bipartisan group of legislators in August 2016 that Cardinals whole independent contractor claims have been taken out of context, and they are being misleading when they say they are.
Some loyalists of the All Progressives Congress and residents around the campaign office of the former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, at Coca Cola Area of Osogbo, ran for their lives after gunmen invaded the building and started shooting.

The former governors campaign office, known as Oranmiyan House, currently serves as the meeting point for a faction of the party loyal to Mr Aregbesola, who also serves as the minister for interior.

The gunmen reportedly arrived at the building a few minutes before 6:00 p.m. and started shooting at the building repeatedly.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the gunmen shot at a transformer located within the compound of the building while a canopy erected in front of the secretariat was partly burnt.

The leader of the Aregbesola faction in the state, Lowo Adebiyi, confirmed the attack.

Yes we were attacked today and the commissioner of police has also been there today, we dont know where they came from yet and there was no provocation of any type between anybody, said Mr Adebiyi.

A guy has been arrested and to my knowledge he was yet to say anything but we will soon know who sent them and where they had come from.

Yemisi Opalola, the police spokesperson in Osun, did not respond to phone calls and a text message.
The 83-year-old man has pleaded not guilty of first-degree murder and willful injury. Since the case began, his mental condition has been questioned. In addition, his hearing loss has made it hard for him to talk with his attorney and follow along in court.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, hailed in a statement the comprehensive reform project of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. He said that the project comes to unite society and the interests of citizens. It protects national values and the rights of citizens under one national identity.

He said that the reform project asserts the values of justice, tolerance, coexistence and openness that move the progress forward. It is based on the principles of the National Action Charter to achieve the goal of the modern state of enabling Bahrainis to enjoy their fundamental rights with responsible justice and freedom within the framework of improving the civilised aspects of Bahrain regionally and internationally, he said.

He highlighted that the Charter and the Constitution were inspired from HM the King's reform project that protects rights and defines responsibilities to protect social cohesion. The principles include the freedom of faith and tolerance between sects and religions, as reinforced values in the culture and identity of Bahrain, he noted.

He said that the National Action Charter, whose anniversary will be celebrated soon, defines the rights of all society members, including women and children. It provides the rights of housing, medical and education to all to promote bonds between members of the society.

The Interior Ministry said that the Bahraini society values its national principles, and there is no place for attempts to undermine civil peace. He stressed that nothing comes above national unity, adding that the protection of community security and safety is a priority to tackle different situations and challenges.

He noted that national responsibility requires commitment to national duties. "The strength is in our unity and requires the reinforcement of moderation, tolerance, respect for others, and rejection of violence and hatred," he concluded.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/overboard-us-archaeologists-dispute-australian-claims-of-finding-captain-cooks-endeavour-1092732547.html

Overboard! US Archaeologists Dispute Australian Claims of Finding Captain Cooks Endeavour

Overboard! US Archaeologists Dispute Australian Claims of Finding Captain Cooks Endeavour

The Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project (RIMAP) has disputed the Australian National Maritime Museums (ANMM) claim that a shipwreck discovered off the... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T22:46+0000

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On Thursday, ANMMs director and CEO, Kevin Sumption, announced the shipwreck of James Cooks Endeavour had been positively identified. A 22-year program to study a wreck in Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, reportedly led Sumption to the monumental conclusion.However, ANMMs partner in the program, RIMAP, ruled the claim as premature.RIMAPs statement additionally claims that ANMMs announcement is in breach of contract, and that, [RIMAP] is now and always has been the lead organization for the study.The contention seems to stem from the very reason that ANMM are certain that the vessel is Cooks Endeavour.Seven key points cited by ANMM are reported to be circumstantial evidence. The location and size of the shipwreck match historical records, the length of the hull is almost exactly the same as that recorded for Endeavour, its structural details closely match Endeavours, specific diagnostic cluesare identical to those shown on 18th century plans, and timber samples highly suggest the ship was built in Europe.However, only 15% of the ship still remains and no definitive evidence has been found to conclude that it is truly the Endeavour.The ANMM announcement came with the unveiling of an online interactive program called Deep Dive that chronicles the discovery or potential discovery of Endeavour.Charting Endeavours Course Through HistoryEndeavour was originally launched in 1764 as a cargo ship before being bought by the Royal Navy in 1768 as a scientific vessel on an exploratory mission to the Pacific Ocean, helmed by Captain James Cook.The three-year mission saw Endeavour arrive in Tahiti to chart the transit of Venus across the sun, reach New Zealand, and become the first European vessel to reach the eastern coast of Australia. The vessel had circumnavigated the world when it docked in Dover in 1771.Following Endeavours successes in the Pacific, it hauled cargo and troops to the Falkland Islands. In 1775 it was sold and renamed Lord Sandwich.During the American War of Independence, the former Endeavour was hired to transport British troops. It was deliberately sunk in 1778 in Newport Harbor to form a blockade against French ships assisting American fighters seeking to recapture the city.The ship is one of the most famous in maritime history. The command module of Apollo 15 took a piece of wood from the ship to space. It wasnt until 1999 when RIMAP and ANMM began their quest to identify the long lost boat.

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Simon Fraser University's Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences is pleased to welcome Dr. Linda Morra as the 2022 Jack and Nancy Farley Distinguished Visiting Scholar.

A full professor of English at Bishops University in Quebec, Morra is an award-winning instructor and researcher who teaches in the areas of womens archives, theories of affect, and womens writing in Canada. Morra holds a PhD in Canadian Literature and Canadian Studies from University of Ottawa. In addition to holding a post-doctoral fellowship with the Department of Gender and Womens Studies at the University of British Columbia, Morra has also held visiting appointments at University College, Dublin and University of California, Berkeley.

Morras extensive list of publications includes the book, Unarrested Archives: Case-Studies in Twentieth-Century Canadian Womens Authorship (University of Toronto Press, 2014) and numerous edited or co-edited books. This includes the 2021 collection co-edited with SFUs Dr. Sarah Henzi: On the Other side(s) of 150: Untold Stories and Critical Approaches to History, Literature, and Identity in Canada (Wilfred Laurier Press, 2021) which earned the Canadian Studies Network award for Best Edited Collection.

Morra currently holds a SSHRC Insight Grant, A Life Beyond Borders: Jane Rule and the development of a West Coast Queer Community which supports the research project that she will carry out as a Farley Visiting Scholar.

Jane Rule (1931-2007) was a Canadian-American author and activist and Morras project builds on research she completed for Unarrested Archives. Upon visiting the UBC Jane Rule Archives Morra noticed they were voluminous and virtually untouched. Morra even interviewed Rule in 2006.

She is such an important activist. I thought it was important to draw attention to the fact that she had done something very unusual with her life, which was to render lesbian fiction mainstream, which it was not at the time. In fact, when she published her first book, homosexuality was still considered illegal.

"So, when I wrote that Unarrested Archives, she goes on, I realized that Jane Rules chapter was much longer than the others and that I still had a lot more to say and so that's when I realized I think it's time to write her biography to really locate what she did in this kind of history.

While at SFU, Morra also aims to establish a social media profile for the Farley Chair, including a YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram accounts and producing a podcast. She started the Twitter account @FarleyScholar in January 2022.

She is no stranger to bringing her research and academic expertise to social media. During her time as Craig Dobbin Chair of Canadian Studies in at University College Dublin, Ireland, she took to social media to heighten the presence of the university, Canadian studies and a conference they were hosting.

Since July 2020, shes also produced her own podcast on Canadian Literature, Getting Lit with Linda. Online arts magazine SesayArts touts Morras podcast as a winning recipe of keen observations, personal experiences and decades of scholarship and says listeners are liable to find themselves hooked: with swelling reading lists and minds newly lit to a spectrum of Canadian literary talent that continues to grow.

With the Farley Chair, she notes, I plan to create a podcast with the students in the graduate course Im teaching, ENGL 493W - Books, Bodies, and Borders: Women Writers (Trans)national Archives & Practices. We'll go into archives and develop different kinds of narratives around the archives that exist in and around Vancouver.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Morra to SFU and FASS. Stay tuned to the Farley Scholar homepage and FASS own Facebook and Twitter accounts to stay up to date with the progress and launch of the Farley Scholar social media accounts.

We are also pleased to announce that Dr. Morra and her colleague, Dr. Betty Schellenberg, are hosting an all-day event, Archival Research: A Best Practice Workshop on February 18th at SFU's WAC Bennett Library on Burnaby campus.
One of Kenyas most wanted terrorists who killed Christians arrested in DRC

Security agencies in the Democratic Republic of Congo arrested one of Kenyas most wanted terrorists known for slaughtering Christians Saturday after he was captured by local youngsters, according to reports.

With the Kenyan government offering an $88,000 bounty, Rashid Mohamed Salim was captured by youths while he and two associates were going to South Africa, where he wanted to start a new life, the Kenyan news website Citizen Digital reported.

Salim, who is university educated, is also known as Chotara and Turki Salim. He was put on the Kenyan Anti-Terror Police radar last November on terrorism charges.

The youngsters handed over Salim to security forces, the persecution watchdog International Christian Concern stated.

This young man is a great terrorist. He is a very big player in the activities of slaughtering Christians in this part of Beni (Congo), a source in Beni told the Maryland-based ICC.

We have been receiving pictures and short films of him cutting the throats of Christians and the police, the source added. It is said that he is the one who captures them or has them captured via his telephone by fellow rebels when he is in the process of acting and publishes them as propaganda. He is already an Allied Democratic Forces commander.

The Islamist rebel group Allied Democratic Forces, based in Uganda, has carried out attacks on civilians and clashed with security forces in Congos Nord Kivu and Ituri provinces in recent years, killing hundreds and displacing tens of thousands of people.

Those provinces have been under a state of siege, according to Amnesty International.

Congo and Uganda launched a joint operation against ADF on Nov. 30.

As security forces have been unable to prevent Allied Democratic Forces attacks, Uganda announced last month that its soldiers will stay in the DRC for as long as needed to defeat the terrorist group.

Since his arrest, videos have emerged of Salim explaining his motivations for carrying out deadly attacks, according to ICC. When speaking of a video showing him beheading a DRC officer, he was quoted as saying that he had been given a machete by the ADF to behead the governments soldier that we had captured.

They told me to draw attention to all the people of the world that there was Islam in Congo, and they were invited to come and spread the Islamic religion so that Islam can rule the whole world, he said, according to ICC. So, I killed the FARDC soldier in the name of Allah.

ICC reports that Salim was radicalized as a teen at a popular Mosque in Mombasa, Kenya, and is believed to have recruited youth into terror groups in East Africa. He was also believed to have joined the Islamic State insurgency in Mozambique.

It is unclear if Congo will extradite Salim to Kenya.

Salims father, Mohamed Rashid, told journalists on Sunday that he had not seen his son since 2020, and the family had no idea of his sons location.

Dealing with the pain of his disappearance was difficult because we did not know about his whereabouts, Rashid was quoted as saying by Kenyans.co.

This boy went to the best schools and he performed well. He is a humble boy who loved his religion. We dont know what got into him until things got to the point where they are now.

He called for his son to be prosecuted in Kenya.

My plea to the government is to help bring him to Kenya, the father said. He should come to Mombasa so that I see him and check that he is OK then they can do their work. He should be sentenced here.
Louisville pays police officer suspended for praying outside abortion clinic $75K

The city of Louisville, Kentucky, has agreed to pay a police officer $75,000 in a legal settlement after the officer was punished for attending a pro-life demonstration outside of an abortion clinic while off duty.

Last October, Matthew Schrenger filed a complaint against Louisville Metro Police Department Chief Erika Shields and Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer after being suspended for attending a prayer vigil outside EMW Womens Surgical Center last February.

The Thomas More Society, a conservative legal nonprofit representing Schrenger, issued a statement last Thursday confirming that the settlement had been reached.

Thomas More Society Senior Counsel Matt Heffron said that the punishment doled out to Schrenger was hypocritical, given that other Louisville police officers had participated in marches and demonstrations of a political nature with impunity.

The unfair discipline revealed undeniably content-based discrimination against Officer Schrengers personal pro-life views and violated his First Amendment rights, stated Heffron.

He was treated very differently than other officers who had undeniably engaged in true political protest and activism while participating in LGBT and Black Lives Matter demonstrations.

Schrenger and his father attended a prayer vigil outside of EMW Womens Surgical Center abortion clinic to participate in a pro-life event known as the 40 Days for Life.

Thomas More Society contends that Schrenger faced public scrutiny after photos emerged on a Twitter account run by abortion promoters tied to the clinic.

The police department quickly found out about Schrengers involvement in the event. The 13-year veteran of the force was accused of protesting at the clinic. He was suspended for over four months with pay, stripped of his authority and placed under investigation.

Schrenger denied the accusation that he was protesting. He maintains that the gathering he attended was peaceful and only involved praying outside the clinic before it opened.

Schrenger filed his lawsuit against Shields Fischer in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Louisville Division.

The Defendants subjected the Plaintiff to suspension and related mistreatment, because the Plaintiff, while off duty, engaged in quiet prayer on a public sidewalk in front of an abortion clinic, stated the lawsuit.

The Plaintiffs right to speak freely and honestly is fully protected even if the Defendants disapprove of the Plaintiffs pro-life views. The central role of the First Amendment is to protect the right of individuals to speak of their beliefs and views, particularly when the government disapproves.

The clinic staff claimed to local media outlet WDRB that Schrengers presence, as he was in uniform and armed, was intimidating to staff members and patients. Surveillance footage showed that Schrenger arrived in his police cruiser and at one point held up a sign that reads, pray to end abortion, WDRB reports.
The United States will be sending 2,000 more troops to Germany, Poland, and Romania to stand ready in the event Russia does invade Ukraine. This will bring the total to 3,000. In addition to sending troops, the US has also sent "lethal aid," which consist of weapons and other military equipment.

Currently, Vladimir Putin has positioned around 100,000 troops in Belarus and on Russia's side of the border with Ukraine.

The Ukrainian government has said that they have not asked for any further troop support and would like their allies to work to reduce tensions through diplomatic channels or through the sending weapons so that they can better defend themselves.

Will Russia invade Ukraine?

Tensions are reaching their highest point in decades, but there is little consensus on whether an invasion by Russia will materialize. Before the attack on Crimea in 2014, Russian state television was broadcasting about the invasion to prepare the population. No coordinated media strategy has been rolled out this time, leading some to believe that Putin is just flexing his muscles and sending a warning to the West.

Additionally to calm the population, the Ukrainian government has pointed out that they do not believe the number of troops Russia has mobilized is enough for a full scale invasion.

However, mixed messages have led to a more complicated situation as the US and UK felt it was necessary to evacuate their embassy staffs in late January. On 23 January, the State Department announced that it had "authorized the departure of some U.S. Government employees, while we have ordered the departure of all family members of U.S. Government employees at our embassy in Kyiv." Leaders at the Department warned that in the case Russia invades, the US federal government "will not be in a position to evacuate U.S. citizens in such a contingency."

This news came as a surprise to the Ukrainian governmetn who accused the US of trying to create more tension and fear.

What spark led to the escalation in tensions?

During a press conference on 2 February, Vladimir Putin broke his silence on Ukraine and provided an update on the conversations he has had with the United States. Putin said that he felt like his demands had been ignored, but did not comment on why he continued to have troops stationed around the Ukrainian border.

Putin has demanded that Ukraine never be allowed to join NATO and called for all offensive weapons to be taken out of countries that border Russian. Putin fears that if Ukraine were to become a NATO ally that they would try to recapture the Crimean peninsula which could lead to a war between Russia and the NATO block.

During the press conference, he asked "Are we supposed to go to war with the NATO bloc?" continuing to say "Has anyone given that any thought? Apparently not."

https://en.as.com/en/2022/01/22/latest_news/1642866597_092483.html
National Prayer Breakfast speaker warns Biden, lawmakers not to govern with 'fear and anger'

The founder of a national criminal justice reform advocacy organization implored politicians gathered for the National Prayer Breakfast Thursday morning to embrace all of Gods children and not just the ones that they agree with as they seek to promote justice and mercy.

As the keynote speaker, Bryan Stevenson, the founder and director of the Equal Justice Initiative, addressed President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and members of Congress attending the 70th annual National Prayer Breakfast at the National Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, D.C.

This years National Prayer Breakfast is the first to take place as an in-person gathering since the coronavirus pandemic began nearly two years ago.

Stevenson highlighted the need for people of faith to embrace one another, to affirm each others humanity, to affirm each others dignity.

Stevenson emphasized that you dont just show Gods love by embracing those with whom you agree, adding we have to embrace all of Gods children.

Whats missing when we try to do justice is our willingness to sometimes just be present with people who are struggling and suffering and to embrace them, to show Gods love in a meaningful way that affirms their humanity and dignity," he said.

He warned that we wont be doing it effectively if we also dont talk about the narratives that create separation.

Stevenson expressed concern about the narratives that are in our world right now.

He cited fear and anger, maintaining that when people allow themselves to be governed by fear and anger, they start tolerating things they should never tolerate and start accepting things they should never accept.

When introducing Stevenson, Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., noted that the advocate has dedicated his life to representing criminal defendants through the Equal Justice Initiative, which provides free legal services to the unjustly convicted.

Thanks to his work, at least 125 Americans have been spared the death penalty, Coons said. Stevenson is the author of the book Just Mercy, which was later made into a movie.

The activist also spearheaded the creation of the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which opened in Montgomery, Alabama, in 2018. Coons said the memorial serves as a national monument to the terror of lynching as part of a broader effort at reconciling and repairing the harms of decades of domestic terrorism rooted in racism.

Coons also mentioned that the Equal Justice Initiative opened the Legacy Museum in Montgomery last year, confronting the history of racial inequality from slavery to modern-day mass incarceration.

Stevenson discussed the negative impact of the coronavirus pandemic and asked those in attendance: What does God require from us in this moment? He shared a quote from Micah, who declared that What God requires is that we do justice, that we love mercy and that we walk humbly.

What I believe that doing justice requires is that we get proximate, get closer to those who are experiencing injustice, he declared. We cannot do justice if we are unwilling to go to the places where cruelty and oppression are manifest, where abuse of power is manifest, where suffering is manifest.

Its in proximity to those who are excluded and neglected, those who are suffering, that we begin to hear things that we wont otherwise hear ... [and] see things that we wont otherwise see, he added. We have a shared humanity that compels us to stay close to one another. People of faith have a powerful role in modeling what it means to be proximate, to draw near.

As people of faith, we cannot be separated. We cannot disconnect from those who suffer, he continued.

He attributed the fact that the U.S. has the highest rate of incarceration in the world to narratives of fear and anger surrounding those who are addicted to drugs. Stevenson suggested that rather than view drug addicts as criminals, people should see them as people who have illnesses that we need to treat. He condemned all forms of violence for preventing people from doing justice and loving mercy.

After detailing the examples of racial injustice experienced by his ancestors and African Americans as a whole in the U.S., Stevenson stressed that people of faith have a critical role to play in leading our nation, leading the world in truth-telling about the role of race and racism in American history.

People of faith know that we can talk about these problems and challenges not because we seek punishment but because we seek liberation, he said.

The world needs to see modeled that we have the courage of our convictions, the ability to actually talk honestly about our mistakes, he continued.

Stevenson said that at his church, You cant come to church and say, I want salvation and redemption in Heaven but Im not going to admit to anything, Im not going to talk about the bad things.

He believes that the pastors at his church would tell a person seeking salvation and redemption without repentance that they shouldnt fear that because it opens up the hearts and minds that lead to liberation.

Stevenson implied that the same line of thinking applies to the need for the U.S. to acknowledge its past wrongs on race. He concluded his speech by stating that doing justice, loving mercy, walking humbly with God means that we have to do things that are uncomfortable; we have to do things that are challenging.
Kendall Jenner is being slammed for promoting 'dangerous drinking' to her fans, after she posted a photo of herself sipping tequila straight from the bottle through a straw in a new ad for her alcohol brand, 818.

The model, 26, sparked outrage after she uploaded the 'irresponsible' picture to Instagram on Wednesday, while sharing a bunch of photos of the 'things she loves.'

It showed her starring away from the camera in a black dress, while she appeared to drink tequila through a straw.

Based on her outfit, it's believed that the snap was taken at her friend Lauren Perez's wedding back in November, which took place in Miami, Florida.

Many people found the post unsettling and mercilessly ridiculed the reality star, voicing outrage over her encouraging her followers to drink 'poison' that can 'ruin peoples lives' and promoting 'binge drinking.'

Kendall Jenner is being slammed for promoting 'dangerous drinking,' after she sipped tequila straight from the bottle through a straw in a new ad for her alcohol brand, 818

The model, 26, sparked outrage after she uploaded the 'irresponsible' picture to Instagram on Wednesday, while sharing a bunch of photos of the 'things she loves'

Many people found the post unsettling and mercilessly ridiculed the reality star, voicing outrage over her encouraging her followers to drink 'poison' that can 'ruin peoples lives'

Others claimed they would 'gag' if they tried to drink tequila like that and said just the thought of it made them want to 'vomit'

A few users even accused Kendall of faking the photo

'She's proud of selling poison that ruins people's lives?' one disgruntled person quipped on Reddit. 'It's worse than her sisters' fast fashion.'

'This is a really dangerous pictured honestly,' someone else agreed. 'There is a reason "Drink responsibly" exists.'

Another added: 'I think this type of promo is actually quite irresponsible.'

'She's drinking liquor directly from the bottle with a straw. It's not a responsible way to drink. It promotes binge drinking,' a fourth angry user said.

'It's rather irresponsible advertising to encourage people to consume alcohol like that,' read another message.

Others claimed they would 'gag' if they tried to drink tequila like that.

'Tequila doesn't taste good enough to be drank with a straw,' someone said.

'The thought of drinking tequila from a bottle with a straw makes me want to vomit,' added another.

A different Reddit user asked: 'Who drinks tequila like that as if it's water?'

'I'm a recovering alcoholic, and that image just made me not finish my dinner, and I'm worried about what I already ate,' one person shared.

This certainly isn't the first time that the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star has faced the furor over her tequila brand

Back in February 2021, after she first launched 818, the star was accused of cultural appropriation for having no real affiliation to Mexico - where tequila hails from

She also faced criticism for naming her spirit after the Calabasas area code and appearing to overlook tequila's deep-rooted Mexican legacy

A few users even accused Kendall of faking the photo, with one writing, 'You really think she's drinking it like this? Lol I bet she isn't even drinking as much as she wants us to believe for the promo.'

'OK I refuse to believe any tequila can be drunk straight from the bottle with a straw,' another agreed.

This certainly isn't the first time that Kendall has faced the furor over her tequila brand.

Back in February 2021, after she first launched 818, the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star was accused of cultural appropriation for having no real affiliation to Mexico - where tequila hails from - since she grew up in the affluent community of Calabasas.

At the time, she said she spent 'four years' trying to create the 'best tasting tequila' on the market, and was proud that she finally did it

Social media users wasted no time in bashing the eldest Jenner sister, with one user calling the venture 'gentrification' since she had 'zero knowledge on Mexican culture'

She also faced criticism for naming her spirit after the Calabasas area code and appearing to overlook tequila's deep-rooted Mexican legacy.

At the time, she said she spent 'four years' trying to create the 'best tasting tequila' on the market, and was proud that she finally did it.

Social media users wasted no time in bashing the eldest Jenner sister, with one user calling the venture 'gentrification' since she had 'zero knowledge on Mexican culture.'

'What about those smaller, family owned Mexican tequila/mezcal brands? They deserve the hype and support,' one user wrote.

Another outraged fan said, 'Kendall Jenner starting a tequila company does not sit with with me at all... She's an unseasoned white privileged rich girl from Calabasas. What the Hell does she know about tequila?! Couldn't you have started a wine company instead?!'

'Tired of the celebrity tequila craze,' wrote a third. 'WTF does @KendallJenner know about tequila? My family's been doing back breaking work in the fields for their entire lives in Jalisco just for people to come dip their toes. Stay in your lane.'

In September, Kendall announced that 818 was going to donate 'back to the community of Jalisco,' where the tequila was made.
The Citadel is condemning a fake news release posted in an alumni Facebook group that made racist comments falsely attributed to the historic military college's administrators.

The fake news release mimicked the look of the school's own press statements, using The Citadel's logo with the headline "Achieving Racial Equity: The Citadel to install African-American Water Fountain in the lobby of Mark Clark Hall."

It included a photo, underneath the headline, of two water fountains, with a sign over one reading "African-American Cadets Only," emblematic of Jim Crow-era policies levied against Black Americans.

Read Next: ISIS Leader Detonated Suicide Bomb Killing Family as Troops Closed In, US Military Says

The post was shared in "The Citadel 'Old Corps'" alumni group, which is open only to cadets who graduated from the historic military college in Charleston, South Carolina, prior to 2000. Promoting a historical inaccuracy, the group says that moderators "will not tolerate the glorification of the hypocritical northern aggression that started the Civil War."

Immediately, the post drew strong criticism from other alumni and was deleted. A screenshot of the fraudulent news release was shared with Military.com.

The fake release featured three fraudulent quotes attributed to the Citadel's president, the president of The Citadel's African American Alumni Association and the historic military college's new chief inclusive excellence officer.

"The nature of the post was racially offensive; The Citadel will not sit idly by and tolerate comments of this nature," the school said in a statement. "While the post appeared in a private Facebook group and has since been deleted, it is important to publicly condemn these comments in the strongest possible terms, as they are completely opposed to our core values -- Honor, Duty and Respect."

The identity of the author has not yet been confirmed by Military.com, and The Citadel did not name the individual or comment on any possible legal action.

The college was founded in the 1840s in response to possible uprisings by enslaved African-Americans. During the Civil War, many of the cadets fought for the Confederacy.

More recently, The Citadel has had to confront public incidents regarding racist behavior and comments.

In 2020, the school rescinded an applicant's admission after a racist comment online gained public attention. In 2018, Citadel officials condemned "abhorrent racist comments" after a student posted racial slurs on Snapchat. In 2015, eight cadets were suspended from the school after a picture of them wearing all white outfits, including pillowcases with holes cut around their eyes, was widely circulated.

Ken Gordon, a 1988 graduate of The Citadel who has frequently shared about the difficult experiences he had as an African-American cadet, was disappointed in the fake news release.

"This post shows that the people who authored it are out of touch with the America of now," he said. "Their America is a thing of the past."

Gordon pulled on his experiences at The Citadel in a novel he published last year titled "Bad Dogs: A Black Cadet in Dixie." The graduate believes the school has been making strides in confronting racism, but said the main issue comes from older alumni exerting influence.

"The issue isn't the administration," Gordon said. "The problem is the graduates who won't let the past go."

The Citadel's response to the fake news release comes during Black History Month -- and one day before the school was set to honor the first group of Black women to graduate the historic military college with a ceremony and a parade.

-- Thomas Novelly can be reached at thomas.novelly@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @TomNovelly.

Related: Racism Plagues US Military Academies Despite Diversity Gains
WINFIELD  Brandyn Misch is the latest officer to join the Winfield Police Department.

Misch, 26, was sworn in at a recent Town Council meeting by Clerk-Treasurer Rick Anderson.

He is the sixth officer to join the department, with plans for a seventh officer to be added to the department later this year, Town Marshal Dan Ball said.

Misch, a graduate of Kankakee Valley High School, worked as a reserve officer for the Newton County Sheriff's Police.

He is currently attending the Indiana Police Academy, and following graduation on April 29, will begin working in Winfield, Ball said.

Misch, who lives in Wheatfield, is married to his wife, Alexis. They have two children, Jaxstyn, 2, and Camdyn, 6 months.

In addition to the oath of office for Misch, the Town Council also had a dedication and oath of office for new K-9 Rak, a black Labrador retriever.

Rak, whose training allows him to sniff out six kinds of drugs as well as money and guns, will have as his handler Sgt. Stephen Garpow.

Rak was gifted to the department by Lakes of the Four Seasons resident Marie Buckingham.

In other business, the Town Council asked Ball to look into vandalism at a neighborhood park in Meadows subdivision.

The issue, which includes graffiti written with black marker on playground equipment, was brought to the attention of the Town Council by Grace Pukoszek, age 8.

Councilman David Anderson said graffiti won't be tolerated.

"Let's clean this up and address. Dan, look at it," Anderson said.

Grace, a third-grader at Jerry Ross Elementary, said she and other children who play at the park are most worried about a strange looking smiley face painted on the equipment.

"Thank you for bringing this to our attention," Anderson told Grace, who stood on her chair to address the council.
Nat'l Prayer Breakfast speaker tells audience including Trump, Pelosi: Jesus said love your enemies

In an address delivered at the 68th National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., conservative author Arthur Brooks encouraged biblical love amid a nationwide crisis of contempt and polarization, reminding attendees that Jesus ordered His followers to love  and not just tolerate  their enemies.

Opening his speech, Brooks, a professor of public leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School and senior fellow at the Harvard Business School, described himself as a follower of Jesus.

[The same Jesus] who taught us to love God and taught us to love each other, he added. Today, Im here to talk to you about the biggest crisis facing our nation and many other nations today: Its the crisis of contempt and polarization thats tearing our societies apart.

In this crisis resides the greatest opportunity we have ever had as people of faith to lift our nations up and to bring our people together, Brooks declared.

When it comes to an old problem like contempt and polarization, Its important to think differently to achieve a new and effective solution, he said.

The author of 11 books turned to the words of Jesus, societys greatest entrepreneur and thinker, from Matthew 5: You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

Such words are as subversive and counterintuitive today as they were 2,000 years ago, Brooks said.

But to apply these words to todays polarized society, we need to make the problem personal, he contended. The speaker revealed that his own parents, devout Christians, are politicly liberal, starkly contrasting his own politically conservative beliefs.

I want it to be personal to you on this day, the Love Your Enemies author said. Let me ask you this: How many of you love somebody with whom you disagree politically? Are you comfortable hearing someone insult that person that you love? Make it personal, my friends.

Moral courage, he said, isnt standing up to those with whom you disagree. Rather, its standing up to those with whom you agree on behalf of those with whom you disagree.

When it comes to marriage, contempt kills, he pointed out, adding, Contempt is ripping our country apart. Were like a couple on the rocks in this country. Dont believe it? Turn on prime time TV ... its tearing our society apart.

How do we break the habit of contempt? Some people say we need more civility and tolerance. I say, nonsense. Why? Because civility and tolerance are a low standard, he said. Jesus didnt say, tolerate your enemies. He said, love your enemies. Answer hatred with love.

Brooks gave audiences three pieces of homework: First, ask God to give you the strength to do this hard thing, to go against your human nature, to follow Jesus teaching.

You believe Jesus' teaching, act like it, he implored the audience. Ask God to take political contempt from your heart. Sometimes, when its just too hard, ask God to help you fake it.

Second, Brooks encouraged attendees to make a commitment to somebody else to reject contempt.

Of course youre going to disagree ... thats what makes America great, its the competition of ideas, he said. But do it without contempt. Ask somebody to hold you accountable.

Finally, he advised his audience to go out looking for contempt.

Its your opportunity for moral perfection, Brooks explained. Why? Because when people treat you with hatred and you answer with love, you change the country. Its like being a missionary. This is your opportunity to show people what leadership is all about. Run toward the darkness, bring your light.

When you leave this National Prayer Breakfast today, youll be back in a world with a lot of contempt. See it as your opportunity, he added.

Brooks advised listeners to imagine a sign above the door reading. You are Now Entering Mission Territory.

If you see the world, if we see the world outside the room as mission territory, we might just mark this day as the point at which our national healing begins, he concluded.

President Donald Trump also spoke at Thursdays event, which was also attended by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., who led the Democratic House members' partisan impeachment charge against the Republican president.

Ahead of Brooks speech, Gospel artist Cece Winans sang Peace from God. She quoted Philippians 4:7: And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This week in Christian history: Baylor charted, 'Four Chaplains' tragedy

Throughout the extensive history of the Church, there have been numerous events of lasting significance.

Each week brings anniversaries of impressive milestones, unforgettable tragedies, amazing triumphs, memorable births, notable deaths and everything in between.

Some of the events drawn from over 2,000 years of history might be familiar, while other happenings might be previously unknown by most people.

This week  Jan. 30 to Feb. 5  marks the anniversary of the death of a Christian daimyo, the chartering of Baylor University, and the Four Chaplains tragedy during World War II.

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Police raid home of disabled woman over anti-trans posters, seize book: like the Stasi

Police in South Wales arrested a womens rights campaigner for putting up stickers and posters in defense of women and children against trans-ideology and confiscated an academic book from her home.

Womens activist Jennifer Swayne, who is disabled, calls her arrest last week for placing posters around Newport absolutely ridiculous, BBC reported, adding that she said police also took away an academic book of essays on the theory and practice of transgendering children, hundreds of stickers and loads of notes after they raided her home.

She said it was like the bloody Stasi  the state security service of the East German communist government in the 1950s.

Police in South Wales said they received six complaints about offensive posters and arrested Swayne on suspicion of criminal damage and displaying threatening or abusive writing likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress, The Telegraph reported.

The posters she put up were made at home, she said.

One poster read, No child is born in the wrong body, humans never change sex. Another said, Respect womens spaces. Some posters said women were in danger in prisons from trans-identified sex offenders and called for no men in womens prisons.

I have never made a sticker with the word trans in it. This is about women at risk, she was quoted as saying.

Last June, a U.K. high court judge ruled in favor of a woman, Maya Forstater, who was fired from her job at the Center for Global Development in 2019 because she stated on social media that men could not become women.

The judge, Akhlaq Ur-Rahman Choudhury, said in the written judgment that Forstaters beliefs were protected under the Equality Act because they did not seek to destroy the rights of trans persons.

Just as the legal recognition of civil partnerships does not negate the right of a person to believe that marriage should only apply to heterosexual couples, becoming the acquired gender for all purposes within the meaning of GRA does not negate a persons right to believe, like the claimant, that as a matter of biology a trans person is still their natal sex, the judgment read in part.

In the United States, female inmates in the California prison system have said they are fearful and are at risk of being prey for men after the state began allowing men who identify as women to be transferred to womens-only prisons.

As all sex inside the prison system is deemed non-consensual by default, the influx of men in womens-only facilities only increases the risk of rapes and pregnancies, the radical feminist group Womens Liberation Front, said last July.

At a captains meeting at the Central California Womens Facility last year, a woman reportedly read a statement in which she implored prison staff for help, and said correctional officers disregarded their fears about having to share close quarters with a serial rapist.



How do we feel safe in our community? When we reach out for help we get nothing.  There has been an assault on a woman and we still are silenced. We have had our hope taken away once again. Does anyone care that we are being forced to house with 62, 250-pound men with penises that are here for brutally raping women? We have been warned by the officials in this prison, more are coming with worse charges. Where is the safety concern for us? If we say we are in fear, we are the ones locked up, the woman protested.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/rapper-tdott-woo-gunned-down-outside-his-grandmothers-home-hours-after-signing-record-deal-1092731161.html

Rapper TDott Woo Gunned Down Outside His Grandmothers Home Hours After Signing Record Deal

Rapper TDott Woo Gunned Down Outside His Grandmothers Home Hours After Signing Record Deal

NYC rapper TDott Woo was fatally shot outside his grandmothers home in Brooklyn on Tuesday, officials with the New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed to... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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TDott Woo, born Tahjay Dobson, was shot on Tuesday in the Canarsie neighborhood of Brooklyn in a drive-by shooting on Avenue L near East 98th Street at around 2:20 p.m local time. He was later taken to Brookdale Hospital Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.I was wondering and I said, No, thats too close to home, the shooting has to be near here, she continued. Then I found out its my grandson that got shot, he died in the hospital. She says she saw her grandsons body laying in front of her home.Just hours before his death, TDott Woo had struck a deal with the record label Million Dollar Music. He rose to prominence for his Woo Walk from a community whose drill music has and continues to electrify the world, the label said of the musician.Its an honor to remain your friend until your last moments, Million Dollar Music wrote. Your memory will always stay with us no matter where we go and what we do.TDott was well known for dancing in Fivio Foreigns music video for Big Drip, as well as his moves in Pop Smokes Welcome to the Party. Fivio Foreign paid homage to the artist in an Instagram post, writing, Imma miss you forever baby boy. You was the prince of this city. Long Live Prince T Dot. I love you gang. Like forever watch over me like you always do.TDotts friend Pop Smoke was killed in February of 2020 when his home was reportedly robbed. The late rappers alleged killer was only 15. Two of the four who allegedly invaded Pop Smokes home were minors, and the oldest was only 19.One music personality has said hes had enough. New York Citys Hot 97 DJ Drewski has announced that he will stop promoting music that mention gang affiliation and rapper disputes.Im not supporting no more diss/gang music! Drewski wrote on Instagram. If ya dissing each other in the songs, dont even send it to me! I dont care if the artist sends it, the label sends it, your big Homie sends it! I will not support or play anymore Diss/Gang records on the radio! We r losing too many young men and women to the streets!The confirmation came as US President Joe Biden visited New York City to address the surging gun violence developments in the Big Apple and those taking place nationwide. The commander-in-chief underscored that the answer to spiking crime rates was not to defund the police or abandon the streets but to instead come together.

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PHOENIX  Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Rosa Mroz died Saturday after being critically injured when she was struck by a car three days earlier, the court announced in a statement,

Mroz, whose age was not immediately available, died from injuries suffered in the crash, which remains under investigation by Phoenix police, the courts statement said.

Police said Wednesday that Mroz was crossing an intersection on foot when she was struck by a car that preliminary information indicated didnt stop for a red light.

Judge Mroz was a gifted jurist, a dedicated public servant and a true friend, said Superior Court Presiding Judge Joseph Welty.

Gov. Doug Ducey ordered that flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff Monday in honor of Mroz, who became a judge in 2004 after being appointed by then-Gov. Janet Napolitano.

An advocate for justice, dutiful public servant and transformational leader, Judge Mroz will be missed, Ducey said in a statement.

Mroz headed the courts Probate and Mental Health Department from 2010 to 2013.

The Arizona Supreme Court in 2012 presented Mroz with a judicial achievement award and the Probate and Mental Health Department in 2013 won achievement awards from the National Association of Court Management and the National Association of Counties.
Officials with the Cherokee and Chickasaw nations on Thursday praised the U.S. Supreme Courts decision nearly two weeks ago to pass on overturning its McGirt ruling and expressed hope that the court would reject one remaining group of challenges by the state to the landmark ruling.

Chickasaw Nation Senior Counsel Stephen Greetham said the courts decision not to overturn McGirt in its entirety reaffirms the continued existence of six tribal reservations in eastern Oklahoma.

With the courts decisions at the end of January, theres no ambiguity left. The law is the law, and we need to move forward, Greetham said, referring to the reservation issue.

Greethams comments, as well as those by Cherokee Nation Attorney General Sara Hill, came during a virtual briefing with the media Thursday afternoon on the McGirt ruling.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Jan. 21 rejected the state of Oklahomas request that it overturn its own July 2020 McGirt ruling.

The decision is named after Jimcy McGirt, an inmate who successfully challenged his state child sex-abuse convictions and life without parole prison sentence on grounds that the state of Oklahoma did not have jurisdiction to prosecute him when it did so in the 1990s.

The July 2020 ruling and subsequent ones by a state appellate court acknowledged that the tribal reservations of the Cherokee and Chickasaw nations, as well as those of the Choctaw, Muscogee, Seminole and Quapaw nations in Oklahoma, are still in existence and have been since well before statehood.

The ruling has triggered a reconfiguration of criminal jurisprudence in the eastern half of the state among tribal, state and federal prosecutors as well as Oklahoma Attorney General John OConnors filing with the nations highest court dozens of petitions challenging the ruling.

The petitions challenge the McGirt decision outright or ask that it be amended to grant the state concurrent jurisdiction in certain cases.

While the Supreme Court on Jan. 21 rejected consideration of its entire ruling, the justices did opt to consider whether the state of Oklahoma shares jurisdiction with federal prosecutors when a non-Indian is a suspect in an Indian Country case involving a tribal member victim.

One of the cases before the Supreme Court on the co-jurisdiction question is that of Victor Manuel Castro-Huerta, who was serving a 35-year Tulsa County prison sentence for child neglect.

While Castro-Huerta has already pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing on similar charges in federal court, state officials contend that co-jurisdiction is necessary to prevent others who successfully appeal their convictions on McGirt grounds from walking free in cases where the statute of limitations now prevents the filing of charges.

State officials also contend that joint jurisdiction is necessary because federal officials do not have the resources to prosecute minor crimes involving nontribal members who victimize tribal members on reservation grounds.

The federal statute of limitations for most crimes not involving a death or juvenile victim is five years.

Both Hill and Greetham said the tribes opposition to the remaining McGirt issue before the court is a matter for Congress rather than the justice system.

We have actually supported federal legislation that would authorize us to compact with the state on the question of concurrent jurisdiction, Greetham said. And thats the appropriate way to do it.

The concept of the state of Oklahomas sharing jurisdiction with federal prosecutors when the suspect is non-Indian and the victim is a tribal member is not new in the post-McGirt age.

Mike Hunter, former state attorney general, proposed such a scenario less than three months following the McGirt ruling.

The proposal called for federal legislation to permit tribes to form compacts with the state to share criminal jurisdiction on reservation land in cases when the suspect is nontribal and the victim is tribal.

While the Cherokee and Chickasaw nations backed the proposal conceptually, the measure quickly fell apart after officials with the Seminole and Muscogee nations voiced opposition to federal legislation to permit compacting.

A proposal by U.S. Rep. Tom Cole to permit just the Cherokee and Chickasaw nations to compact with the state is still pending in Congress.

Greetham described a court decision that would give Oklahoma concurrent jurisdiction in cases involving non-Indians committing crimes against tribal members as a fairly blunt tool approach to what is actually a fairly complex set of issues.

It doesnt address all the implementation questions that arise, whereas congressional action could better address details in a joint jurisdiction agreement, Greetham said.

Hill, meanwhile, said the logistics between law enforcement entities continue to improve, noting that Cherokee Nation prosecutors have filed 3,300 criminal cases since its reservation was acknowledged as still intact under McGirt.

So I think from an intergovernmental standpoint on the ground, the situation is going extremely well, Hill said.

That being said, we still continue to see a lot of rhetoric from some of the elected officials in Oklahoma, which undermines faith in these institutions, these tribal institutions and these relationships that weve been building, and that continues to be disappointing, Hill said.

She said she is hopeful now that the issue on reservations is settled that the parties can move beyond that and into more robust discussions about what tribal-state agreements could look like between the state and the tribes  .

If there are changes that need to be made,  these are matters for Congress to decide, Hill said.

Greetham said he expected oral arguments before the Supreme Court to be held in April or May on the joint-jurisdiction question with a ruling by the end of the courts current session, which ends in late June or early July.

McGirt, meanwhile, has since been found guilty in federal court of charges similar to those he faced in state court and has been sentenced to serve three life prison sentences.

Featured video: Supreme Court lets McGirt ruling stand, will consider letting Oklahoma share jurisdiction
LEMOYNE, Pa., Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bucks County Realtor Christopher S. Beadling was installed as president of the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors during a ceremony at the Sunoco Performance Theater, Whitaker Center, in Harrisburg this week.

The vice president and broker of record for Quinn & Wilson, Inc. Realtors in Montgomery County, Beadling has been a Realtor for 20 years. He teaches Realtor ethics courses and has taught technology best practices at the national level. He also developed a real estate technology company, which he later sold.

In 2015, he served as chair of the Suburban Realtors Alliance board of directors, an industry and consumer advocacy organization.

"It's an honor to represent 39,000 Realtors across the commonwealth this year. Our organization not only provides benefits and services for our members, but we're a strong advocate for homeowners and private property rights," he said.

Beadling is a graduate of the National Association of Realtors leadership academy. He has served as a member of NAR's board of directors, the Federal Technology Policy Advisory Board and the Member Communications and Data Strategies committees.

He received his MBA from LaSalle University and his undergraduate degree from Bloomsburg University, where he served as president of the Alumni Association.

Beadling served as president of two local rotary clubs and as the chair of Bucks Beautiful, a local nonprofit dedicated to raising funds for community beautification projects. He resides in Doylestown with his daughter.

The Pennsylvania Association of Realtors is a trade/professional association that serves more than 39,000 members in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Association of Realtors
Lebanon education officials plan to answer questions Tuesday, Feb. 8 and share their intentions for a proposed health center that would be based at a school in the district.

The Lebanon Community School District meeting comes weeks after people sharing fears about rumors of students access to hormone therapy or abortions shut down a school board meeting where the topic was scheduled to be discussed.

Unlike the first meeting, "take two" will be online via Zoom, not in person.

People wanted to talk about it, district Director of Communications and Online Learning Susanne Stefani said. We wanted to share. And none of that happened.

Rachel Cannon, interconnected systems framework coordinator for Lebanon Community Schools, is again scheduled to present what the school-based health center would provide for district students.

The meeting also will feature Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital CEO Marty Cahill and Dana Kosmala, a pediatrician, to represent the medical providers who would run the proposed clinic, Stefani said.

The forum is the first opportunity to comment on the center since Jan. 13, when the districts board couldnt keep commenters within time limits and shut down the meeting.

Foremost, Stefani said, district leaders want to tell their community that school-based health centers probably will help students attend and pay attention in class by providing health services they cant always get to.

Some students struggle managing relationships with friends and family. Some are busy dealing with traumatic experiences, she said, and dealing with ailing mental health frequently prevents students from excelling in school.

Some students would go to medical providers if they had transportation or time off from work and tending to their families.

Students cant focus. They cant learn. Their success is hindered when they have unmet health needs, Stefani said.

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Nearly one-third of students in grades 5 through 12 in districts served by health centers said their mental health was less than good, according to state data. More than four in five students said they had health needs they couldnt or didnt have met.

The Oregon Health Authority health center program has seen 78 centers installed across 25 counties. Linn County is one of 11 Oregon counties and the only county in the Willamette Valley without a school-based health center.

Stefani believes schools are no longer a place where a teacher stands in front of a classroom and delivers a lesson, she said.

After the Jan. 13 board meeting, the district responded with health center information on its website. People have questioned how health is the responsibility of schools, she said. Questions appear to have gradually shifted away from the reproductive health of students.

Theres just a lot of anxiety and fear and frustration right now. And thats shared by almost everyone, but for different reasons, she said.

Stefani understands some Lebanon residents' reservations. From where some parents stand, she said, health centers in schools may not be right for their child. But there also are kids who do need the clinic.

Its not something we would want to move forward with if we don't have wide support from our school board and the community, she said. We are part of the community.

The meeting is scheduled from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.
(Alliance News) - The following is a round-up of updates by London-listed companies, issued on Thursday and not separately reported by Alliance News:

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EnQuest PLC - oil and gas production company that operates in UK North Sea and Malaysia - Says average output in 2021 falls to 44,415 barrels of oil equivalent per day, from 59,116 in 2020. For 2022, it expects average output between 44,000 and 51,000 boepd.

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SEEEN PLC - London-based media optimisation platform - Expects 2021 revenue down at USD8.5 million from USD10.1 million in 2020 and adjusted loss before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation narrows to USD1.5 million from USD2.1 million. Looking ahead, points to revenue and profitability generation potential as contracts are implemented in 2022.

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Braemar Shipping Services PLC - London-based shipbroker - Expects revenue of no less than GBP101 million for year to February 28, at least up 20% from GBP84 million a year earlier. "The strong trading seen in the first half of the financial year has continued throughout the second half to date," it says.

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Creo Medical Group PLC - medical device company focused on surgical endoscopy - During 2021 says it has continued to build momentum through sustained commercial progress. Expects revenue for 2021 to top expectations at "just over" GBP25 million from GBP9.4 million in 2020.

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Proteome Sciences PLC - drug development services provider - During 2021 says it continued to show strong growth in its services business with TMT revenue holding firm. Expects annual revenue to rise 7% to GBP5.1 million from GBP4.8 million in 2020 and trading profit in a range between GBP600,000 to GBP800,000, up from GBP500,000 year before.

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Agronomics Ltd - invests in cellular agriculture and cultivated meat - Net asset value per share as at 31 December 31 was 14.32 pence, up 10% from 12.99p on September 30. For six months to December 31, swings to net profit of GBP2.5 million from loss of GBP1.4 million.

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Solid State PLC - Redditch, England-based electronic components manufacturer - Says its manufacturing arm Steatite Ltd has been awarded a "multi-million pound" contract by BAE Systems PLC to design, develop and qualify computer consoles for maritime platforms.

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Itaconix PLC - London-based functional polymers company - Has filed a new patent to protect innovative intellectual property for expected applications in potential uses in composite materials for plant-based ingredients. Explains extension of the Itaconix technology platform is part of its efforts to engage with potential customers to identify sizeable needs that Itaconix can address with plant-based solutions.

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Afentra PLC - upstream operator in Africa with carried interest in Odewayne block onshore southwestern Somaliland - Says the negotiations with Sonangol EP to purchase interests in Block 3/05 and Block 23 in Angola have continued into the new year. Afentra has been engaged in negotiations with Sonangol to reach agreement on the detailed terms of the transaction. Says negotiations are ongoing but there is no guarantee at this stage that an agreement will be reached. If Afentra ultimately proceeds with theacquisition, it would be classified as a reverse takeover. Trading in Afentra shares will remain suspended until either the publication of an AIM admission document, or until confirmation is given that Afentra's participation in the bid process has ceased.

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Cizzle Biotechnology Holdings PLC - UK-based diagnostics developer - Signs full agreement for development of lung cancer tests in China with the International Co-Innovation Centre for Advanced Medical Technology and the Shenzhen Intelliphecy Life Technologies Co Ltd.

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Edenville Energy PLC - developer of Tanzania's Brownfield Rukwa coalfields - Its subsidiary has entered into a contract with Nextgen Coalmine Ltd for the operation of the company's Rukwa Coal project in Tanzania. The agreement is for an initial period of one year started on Tuesday. Under the agreement the contractor will pay Edenville a royalty of USD10 per tonne of washed coal sold and a royalty of USD5 per tonne of any coal fines sold.

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Applied Graphene Materials PLC - graphene materials maker with headquarters in Redcar, Cleveland - Says Stanvac-Superon Group, the India-based manufacturer of industrial repair and maintenance solutions, has introduced a speciality conductive coating incorporating the company's Genable dispersed graphene materials, for use on industrial power transmission equipment. Stanvac-Superon expects the product to be used for power transmission, electrical distribution, and railways, as well as other high energy consumers such as steel mills, smelters, and refineries.

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Alliance Pharma PLC - Chippenham, Wiltshire-based distributor of consumer healthcare brands and prescription medicines - Following an investigation, the UK Competition & Markets Authority has announced its finding that all four companies, including Alliance, have infringed competition law. Alliance says it "fundamentally disagrees" with the CMA's finding and confirms that it did not participate in, or profit from, any market sharing arrangement and refutes involvement in the alleged competition law infringement. Alliance says it will appeal the CMA's decision and the proposed fine of GBP7.9 million, at the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

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Invinity Energy Systems PLC - London-based flow battery maker - Sells a 8.4 megawatt hour Invinity VS3 flow battery to Elemental Energy Inc for a utility-scale energy project in Alberta, Canada. This is the company's largest sale in the North American market to date, it notes.

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4GLOBAL PLC - UK-based data, services and software company - Says it has entered into a partnership agreement with the Fitness Industry Council of Canada. Under the agreement FIC will work with 4GLOBAL to develop 'DataHub Canada' utilising its extensive network of 6,000 facilities with over six million members across the country. Says partnership will significantly increase the global capacity of the company's DataHub which is currently in excess of 1.2 billion of data points of how sport is consumed in UK, Europe and other international markets in South America and Middle East.

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By Arvind Bhunjun; arvindbhunjun@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/lockdowns-had-little-to-no-effect-on-covid-mortality-were-ill-founded-johns-hopkins-study-says-1092730164.html

Lockdowns Had Little to No Effect on Covid Mortality, Were Ill-Founded, Johns Hopkins Study Says

Lockdowns Had Little to No Effect on Covid Mortality, Were Ill-Founded, Johns Hopkins Study Says

Countries around the world introduced hard lockdowns in 2020 aimed at flattening the curve of the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with restrictions gradually... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T19:15+0000

2022-02-03T19:15+0000

2022-02-03T19:29+0000

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Coronavirus lockdowns did almost nothing to curb Covid mortality, but had devastating effects on national economies and sparked a bevy of social problems, researchers led by Dr. Steve Hanke, the head of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Applied Economics, have concluded.Their study, entitled A Literature Review and Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Lockdowns on COVID-19 Mortality, was based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of trends discovered in 34 economics, health science, and social science papers written over the past two years. Researchers determined that lockdowns in Europe and the United States only reduced COVID-19 mortality by 0.2% on average.Scientists also found that the hard lockdown/shelter in place orders may have actually increased mortality and transmission of the virus, increasing spread in family units and limiting peoples access to safe (outdoor) places such as beaches, parks, and zoos, or included outdoor mask mandates or strict outdoor gathering restrictions, pushing people to meet at less safe (indoor) places. Indeed, we do find some evidence that limiting gatherings was counterproductive and increased COVID-19 mortality.The papers authors also indicated that their findings were in line with the conclusions of a World Health Organization study from 2006 which found that social-distancing, isolation and quarantine measures implemented during the 1918 influenza pandemic proved similarly ineffective at the time.The Johns Hopkins report has been treated coldly by most mainstream media outlets, with Dr. Martin Makary, a surgeon from the hospital unaffiliated with the research, blasting the university for not even [putting] out a press release about this study despite its status as potentially one of the biggest studies in the world today.Appearing on Tucker Carlsons show on Fox on Wednesday, Makary suggested that the number of lives saved from Covid by the lockdowns may have been offset dramatically by those who died from lack of timely medical care for other issues.This studyconcluded that the lockdowns had no significant reduction of mortality, and an aggregated reduction of about two tenths of one percent. Now compare that number, which turns out to about 1,800 individuals, to the number of non-Covid deaths, what we call the excess non-Covid mortality in the United States: it was 124,000 excess deaths in year one. So over two years it was about a quarter million people who died, Makary calculated.Dr. Neil Ferguson, the director of the MRC Center for Global Infectious Disease Analysis at Imperial College London, whose recommendations in the early days of the pandemic proved central to the World Health Organization and national governments in implementing the lockdown strategy, dismissed the Johns Hopkins studys conclusions.This report on the effect of lockdowns does not significantly advance our understanding of the relative effectiveness of the plethora of public health measures adopted by different countries to limit Covid-19 transmission. First, the policies which comprised lockdown varied dramatically between countries, meaning defining the term is problematicA second and more important issue is that the statistical methods used to estimate the impact of [non-pharmaceutical interventions] using observational data need to be appropriate. Such interventions are intended to reduce contact rates between individuals in a population, so their primary impact, if effective, is on transmission rates, Ferguson said.

https://sputniknews.com/20220202/scandinavian-countries-to-follow-danish-example-relax-restrictions-despite-massive-omicron-spread-1092673453.html

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Biden condemns 'political extremism' in National Prayer Breakfast speech

President Joe Biden delivered remarks at the 2021 National Prayer Breakfast, using the occasion to condemn "political extremism" and call on Americans to unite as the country grapples with the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Biden, the first Roman Catholic to serve as President of the United States since John F. Kennedy, delivered a speech at the annual breakfast Thursday, which took place virtually this year because of COVID-19. He began the speech by thanking Americans for praying for himself and first lady Jill Biden. "I'm honored to continue this tradition of reflection and fellowship that started with President Eisenhower," he said.

The president used his first address to the National Prayer Breakfast of his presidency to weigh in on the "violent assault on the U.S. Capitol ... an assault on our democracy, on our Capitol, a violent attack that threatened lives and took lives." According to Biden, "We know now we must confront and defeat political extremism, white supremacy and domestic terrorism."

While Biden singled out the fringe Trump supporters who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, he did not mention the violence perpetrated by Antifa and Black Lives Matter riots that engulfed major American cities last summer that resulted in over 20 people being killed and over $2 billion in destruction to small businesses and homes burned while children inside, including an apartment building where residents were trapped on the second floor.

The president spent the bulk of his speech addressing the volatile political climate the United States finds itself in, specifically referencing the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic fallout, the "call for racial justice," and "the existential threat" of climate change.

"For so many in our nation, this is a dark, dark time. So, where do we turn?" he asked.

"Faith," he responded. Quoting from Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard, Biden proclaimed that "faith sees best in the dark."

"I believe that to be true. For me, in the darkest moments, faith provides hope and solace. It provides clarity and purpose as well. It shows the way forward as one nation in a common purpose to respect one another, to care for one another, to leave no one behind."

"These aren't Democrats and Republicans going hungry in our nation; they're our fellow Americans, fellow human beings. There aren't Democrats and Republicans going without healthcare in America; they're our fellow Americans, fellow human beings. There aren't Democrats and Republicans being evicted from their homes; they're fellow Americans, fellow human beings," he continued.

"This is not a nation that can or will simply stand by and watch this. It's not who we are," Biden asserted. "It's not who faith calls us to be. In this moment, we cannot be timid or tired. We have too much work to do."

Biden concluded his speech by predicting that "we're going to get through all of this," adding, "the Bible tells us 'weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.'"

Acknowledging that "we still have in front of us many difficult nights to endure," he maintained that "we'll get through them together."

"We need one another. We need to lean on one another, lift one another up, and with faith guide us through the darkness into the light."

Brian Burch, the president of CatholicVote, a national faith-based advocacy organization, issued a statement following Biden's address. Burch criticized the president for ignoring "the aggressive and hostile steps taken by his administration against people of faith, including the anti-science transgender mandate and the deeply unpopular decision to fund abortion around the world."

While Biden has repeatedly touted his Catholic faith, he has faced criticism from some Catholic officials over his support for abortion, which contradicts church teaching.

"It's important to also remember that President Biden does not speak for Catholics or the church. In fact, he explicitly departs from many of the church's non-negotiable beliefs and teachings. For this reason, the Catholic Bishops of the United States have rightly pointed to deep concerns about Biden's policies that would 'advance moral evils' on issues such as marriage, family, religious liberty, and the defense of vulnerable children in the womb,'" Burch added.

"Our country is desperately in need of healing and unity. Throughout our history, our leaders have called the country to prayer and obedience to the truths of our Judeo-Christian heritage. President Biden's words this morning were both underwhelming and disappointing."

While four of the five living former presidents also participated in this year's National Prayer Breakfast in some form, Biden's immediate predecessor, former President Donald Trump, did not.
The Biden administration is facing competing pressures in Congress over U.S. troop deployments to Europe as fears grow that Russia could soon launch a massive invasion of Ukraine.

Lawmakers in both parties are praising President Joe Biden's move, announced Wednesday by the Pentagon, to deploy or reposition about 3,000 troops around Europe.

But some lawmakers are also questioning whether that will be enough to reassure anxious NATO allies and deter Russia from launching an assault. Meanwhile, a small but vocal faction of Republicans are hammering Biden for deploying any troops after influential conservatives questioned why the United States should take Ukraine's side in the standoff.

Read Next: ISIS Leader Detonated Suicide Bomb Killing Family as Troops Closed In, US Military Says

The congressional debate came as administration officials, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Mark Milley, briefed the full House and Senate on Thursday on the current situation with Russia and Ukraine.

Russia has amassed more than 100,000 troops near its border with Ukraine, and the Biden administration has warned that Russia could launch an invasion at any point. Such a move would mark an escalation after Russia invaded the Ukrainian territory of Crimea in 2014 and continues backing separatists in the Donbas region.

Administration officials reportedly briefed Congress on Russian plans to use a fake video of Ukrainians attacking Russia as a pretext for war, according to The New York Times.

While lawmakers would not confirm details of the classified briefing, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch, R-Idaho, told reporters that Russia is "in the process of producing movies, producing press releases, producing false proof that the Ukrainians are doing something to provoke them."

In the face of Russia's potential action, the United States is deploying about 2,000 soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division and 18th Airborne Corps from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to Germany and Poland. Another 1,000 soldiers with an Army Stryker squadron already stationed in Germany are being repositioned to Romania.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., who recently led a congressional delegation to Ukraine and co-leads a congressional caucus supporting NATO, called the deployment a "good start," but added that "we need to continue to assess the situation" to see whether more troops will be needed.

Risch told reporters he thinks those numbers are enough to reassure the United States' NATO allies.

"This wasn't done in a vacuum. This was done in negotiations with" NATO allies, he added.

The deployments are on a rotational basis, but Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., said after the House briefing that the administration should also consider more permanent troops close to NATO's eastern front.

"I encourage the administration, as I have in past administrations, to look at what is our forward deployed presence in Europe and whether or not we have to build that forward deployed presence up," he said.

In addition to the troops now deploying, another 8,500 U.S. troops are on alert to deploy if NATO activates its Response Force.

Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., the other co-lead of the NATO caucus who highlighted that the deploying service members are coming from his state, said he would expect U.S. troop levels to "ebb and flow" as the situation unfolds, citing the troops on alert.

While in general there is bipartisan agreement on the need to stand up to Russian President Vladimir Putin, that unity is being threatened by some Republicans in the wake of former President Donald Trump's friendlier attitude toward Russia. Fox News host Tucker Carlson also had several recent segments defending Moscow's troop buildup and questioning why the United States would side with Ukraine.

On Thursday, Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., who served as an ambassador during the Trump administration, railed against Biden for allowing Putin to have "gotten away with everything that he might possibly hope for."

But asked whether the U.S. troop level in Europe is sufficient to counter Putin after the new deployments, Hagerty replied that "we need to send troops to our southern border before we send troops to protect the borders of other nations."

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @reporterkheel.

Related: US Deploying 3,000 Troops in Europe to Counter Russian Threats to Ukraine
The 2020 presidential election, and the intense debate that has continued for more than year after its conclusion, have invariably led to new proposals to affect future national elections.

While it any federal voting rights legislation is unlikely to pass, in recent weeks several elected officials, including the second-ranking Republican U.S. senator, John Thune of South Dakota, and the House majority whip, Democrat Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, have expressed interest in reforming the Electoral Count Act. This would clarify the role the vice president  in their role as president of the Senate  plays when certifying the vote of the Electoral College.

These debates are renewing discussion and momentum for moving to a national popular vote, if not by the 2024 presidential election, then by 2028.

How would it work?

States are passing legislation or initiatives awarding their electors to the winner of the national popular vote. Once the number of states in the compact reaches 270 electoral votes, presidential elections will transition from the current method  48 states use what is called the winner-take-all method of awarding electors while Maine and Nebraska award electors by congressional district  to a national popular vote.

How close is this to becoming a reality? Closer than you probably think.

The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact has been adopted by 16 states, including the District of Columbia, totaling 195 electoral votes. Most recently, Colorado joined the compact and an initiative petition was launched in Michigan. The compact is a binding, actionable and realistic reform that utilizes the constitutional power of state legislators to select a method for awarding electors without abolishing the Electoral College.

The pathway from 195 to 270 is not impossible to see. The compact has passed in at least one house of state legislatures in eight additional states, accounting for more than 70 electoral votes. It is only a matter of time before those states also join the compact.

Notably, the compact does not take effect until it reaches the threshold of 270 electoral votes.

Several questions are raised about this proposal. Lets examine them.

You may believe this would benefit cities. But the data shows otherwise.

Only one-sixth of the country lives in the top 100 cities. One-fifth live in rural areas. California and New York together only have 18 percent of all voters. According to national data, the five biggest cities in the country account for only about 6 percent of the national population. The top 20 cities account for only about 10 percent of the population. Even the top 50 cities only account for 15 percent of the nations population.

You may think it would lead to TV ad campaigns focused almost exclusively on the largest TV markets. But big cities could never dominate under a national popular vote, unless you reject basic math.

You may think the Constitution prevents such a plan, but it does not. In fact, the winner-take-all method presently used by 48 states to award their electors is not prescribed by the Constitution. Likewise, the congressional district method also doesnt appear anywhere in the text.

This compact still respects the constitutional role of the states in selecting the president, but it does so through a popular mandate. Its the best of both worlds.

It would also force a Democratic nominee to campaign in red states and a Republican nominee to campaign in blue states. That would benefit voters.

You may think that a national popular vote would advantage Democrats. But I can find no hard evidence that this is the case. Consider since 1988, 38 states have voted the same way in presidential elections, giving Democrats an automatic 242-102 electoral vote advantage and placing them a mere 28 electoral votes from clinching the presidency even before the first votes are cast.

Instead of six to eight battleground states, where candidates spend all their time after winning their nominating contests, candidates could instead develop unique and tailored strategies for a candidates time, allocation of resources, and messaging strategies. Why should a voter in Missouri or Utah be less relevant than a voter in Michigan or Florida?

Under the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, every vote would have equal value, and neither party would have an automatic electoral advantage. America would finally elect a president of the United States chosen by all Americans.
ZAGREB, Croatia  The United States on Thursday delivered two Black Hawk military helicopters to Croatia, which is engaged in a mini arms race with neighboring Russian ally Serbia amid simmering tensions in the post-war Balkan region.

The U.S. Embassy in Croatias capital, Zagreb, said the donated UH-60M multi-purpose helicopters will contribute to Croatias growing defense capabilities and military preparedness in support of NATO.

The Black Hawk provides capabilities across a range of possible missions, from special operations to tactical troop transport to aeromedical evacuation, U.S. Charge dAffaires Mark Fleming said as the helicopters arrived on a U.S. Air Force transport plane to Zagreb.

Croatia has earned a reputation as a committed and capable NATO ally, and the introduction of Black Hawks will further boost the capacities of the Croatian Armed Forces, Fleming said in the statement.

Defense Minister Mario Banozic thanked the U.S. for the donation.

"It represents evidence of strong, friendly and allied relations, which are progressing every year, he said.

Croatia last month reached an agreement with the U.S. to buy 89 Bradley fighting vehicles as part of cooperation with Washington and plans as a member of NATO to form an infantry brigade.

Croatia, which is also a member of the European Union, last year agreed to purchase 12 Rafale fighter jets from France.

Serbia, which was at war with Croatia in the 1990s over its secession from the Serb-led Yugoslavia, has lately been arming itself mostly with Russian and Chinese warplanes, drones, and anti-aircraft systems.

In recent months, Russia has handed over to Serbia 30 battle tanks and 30 armored personnel carriers.

Serbia has also recently purchased sophisticated Russian Pantsir air defense systems, as well as attack and transport helicopters and Chinese drones.

Although formally seeking EU membership, Serbia has refused to fully align its foreign policies with the 27-nation bloc and has worked on strengthening its relations with Russia and China in parallel.

With Croatia firmly standing by its NATO allies in the current tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Serbia said it will remain neutral.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/netherlands-says-should-be-ready-for-potential-gas-shortage-amid-tensions-around-ukraine-1092731426.html

Netherlands Says Should Be Ready for Potential Gas Shortage Amid Tensions Around Ukraine

Netherlands Says Should Be Ready for Potential Gas Shortage Amid Tensions Around Ukraine

PARIS, February 3 (Sputnik)  The Dutch government should prepare for a possible shortage of national gas reserves amid an escalation of the Ukrainian crisis... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T21:26+0000

2022-02-03T21:26+0000

2022-08-06T13:28+0000

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In a letter to the House of Representatives, the lower parliamentary house, the ministries said that they are closely monitoring gas supply security both at national and European levels. EU gas storage of the Russian energy giant Gazprom are less full compared to the previous years, the ministries noted."The Minister of Climate and Energy [Rob] Jetten previously said in a conversation with the chamber that it is important not to speculate on a possible scenario, but we must be well prepared," the letter read.The situation around Ukraine has worsened over the past several months after the United States and its allies accused Russia of preparing to invade its neighbor. Russia has repeatedly denied having plans to attack any country, but said it reserves the right to move troops inside its sovereign territory as it sees fit. Russia has also warned that NATO's plans to expand further eastward, including in Ukraine, represent a threat to its national security.

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Microsoft said recently that it will be delivering its first real update to Windows 11 this month, including an improved taskbar and a taskbar weather widget. But how it delivers those new features to your PC wont be immediately obvious. A recent blog post, however, provides some clues on what to expect.

Windows 10 and Windows 11 users are used to receiving notices about upcoming Windows feature updates, either within the Windows Update subsection of the Windows 10 Settings menu, or via a popup notification. Microsoft recently said Windows will be one big feature update per year going forward. But there are new, smaller ways in which Microsoft will be rolling out improvements to Windows outside of those milestone releases, too. (Credit to ZDNets Mary Jo Foley for calling this out.)

In a blog post explaining whats next for the Windows Insider program, Microsoft explained how it would deliver updates to its Beta and Dev Channels outside of new, formal builds. The mechanisms that Microsoft will use were explained in the context of the Insider program, but they can and probably will be used for delivering updates to the stable channel of Windows 11 (and possibly 10, too). Theyre known as Feature Experience Packs, Web Experience Packs, and Online Service Experience Packs, and you may see all three show up inside Windows Update.

Historically, new features shipped with new releases. Microsoft would ship them both in service packs to older versions of Windows, and migrated them to Windows 10 and Windows 11 in feature releases such as, for example, the Windows 10 Creators Update. But Microsoft has tried to uncouple various elements of Windows into their own development tracks, so they can be maintained and updated on their own schedule. A good example of this are some of the built-in Windows apps, which now are typically updated via the Windows Store.

In 2020, Microsoft introduced a new update mechanism: the Windows Feature Experience Pack, which tried to accommodate small improvements that fell in the cracks. Is it fair to characterize the WFEP as a channel for updating experiences that arent tightly coupled with the OS, are not apps in the Store, and are not features-on-demand? one user asked then  and the answer was a simple yes.

One example of a new feature experience was using the screen snipping experience (Win + Shift + S) to create a snip of your screen and paste it directly into a folder of your choice in File Explorer to save the screenshot there. So yes, something new  but nothing deserving of an entire feature update.

Online Service Experience Packs appeared last October, as part of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22489. Microsoft used the new Online Service Experience Pack to add a dashboard to the Windows 11 Settings > Account submenu, showing the status of your Microsoft 365 subscriptions, for example. At the time, Microsoft said that it would roll out the new dashboard to a very small set of Insiders.

The new Microsoft account dashboard, currently available to a subset of Windows 11 Insiders. Microsoft

The difference between [Feature and Online Experience Packs] is that the Windows Feature Experience Packs can deliver broad improvements across multiple areas of Windows, whereas the Online Service Experience Packs are focused on delivering improvements for a specific experience such as the new Your Microsoft account settings page, Microsoft explained. For example, under Windows Update this would appear as Online Service Experience Pack  Windows.Settings.Account with a version number.

That last sentence will be the tell  if you see a notice about a new Online Service Experience Pack within the Windows Update menu, something new and specific will be headed to your Windows 11 machine.

We dont yet know what a Web Experience Pack entails, but we can imagine that it will something tied to the Web within Windows. Its possible that we could see smaller representations of Web pages within the Widgets menu, possibly.

This does somewhat undercut Microsofts plan to move to a single annual feature release for Windows, however, since these small point releases could roll out at any time, really. On one hand, those of you who prefer that Windows gets left well enough alone may be upset that theres now an easy way for Microsoft to tweak Windows. On the other hand, individual teams of developers within Microsoft will now have new tools to respond to user feedback more quickly.

What we dont know, however, is how Microsoft will use these new capabilities. Will small point updates become common? Will Microsoft announce them? If youre concerned, our tutorial on how to manage Windows updates may be useful: Simply pause them until youre sure about what Microsoft is rolling out. Otherwise, you should see some new features arrive on Windows 11 in the weeks ahead.
Pastor says he lost faith after his father's tragic death, says pain 'blinds' believers

Pastor Michael Phillips of the T.D. Jakes Foundation preached at Jakes Potter's House megachurch in Dallas to share his faith journey and why he turned away from God following the sudden loss of his father. Phillips told the audience that pain can often blind Gods creations.

As a boy growing up in Baltimore, Maryland, Phillips said during the Jan. 23 sermon that his father worked as a full-time pastor and a part-time truck driver. His father would often take him up to the top of his 18-wheeler for picnics and taught him to admire Gods creation, the vast universe and the countless stars in the sky.

Phillips father told him that if there ever came a time in his life where he felt stuck or as if he couldnt make it through some ordeal, he should look up.

He would tell me this because he would then say, Because you dont know that you have already been brought a mighty-long way, Phillips said. When I was a little kid, I didnt really understand that. I would just shake my head and nod.

But by the time he was around 11 years old, he was on a trip to New York with his father. During this trip, he questioned what his father meant by you have already been brought a mighty-long way.

And thats when [my father] began to grin, and he said to me: You have to understand that youre moving right now, and you dont even know it, Phillips said.

With a grin, Phillips recalled his father telling him that he was already moving because the Earth is spinning around its axis at a speed of 1,000 miles per hour.

Every 24 hours, his father said, the Earth makes a rotation around the sun. This means that when he lays his head down at night and wakes up the following day, the sun is up because the Earths spinning axis has already made a turn.

I need somebody to understand in this room that God has already set things in motion to the point where it cannot be altered, it cannot be changed, it cannot be undone, said Phillips, who works as the chief engagement and fulfillment officer at T.D. Jakes Foundation. Not only are you moving at a fast velocity.  The suns going to be up in the morning.

In a similar way to what his father once explained to him, Phillips shared that whatever might be making Christians feel stuck doesnt have the power or gravitational pull to keep them where they are because God has already set things in motion.

While you were up last night worrying about your bills and worrying about your baby girl and worrying about your husband and worrying about your house, you were moving, and [you] didnt even realize it, Phillips said earlier in the sermon. While you were on your bended knees praying to God, talking to Him about a predicament, a problem or a situation, you were already moving, and you didnt even realize it was taking place.

Incarcerated, yet youre moving; in-debt, yet youre moving; suffering anxiety, yet youre moving; in pain, yet youre moving, and you dont even realize it, he added.

Phillips remembers one time his father brought him into the bathroom and asked him to look into the mirror. His father said to him: As marvelous and as [splendid] as the heavens and the earth are, its nothing compared to what youre looking at.

Let me say it for you in scriptural terms: I am fearfully and I am wonderfully made. The Lord knit you together in your mothers womb, Phillips said. So when I see me, Ive got to see Him. ... Every time I look in the mirror, yes, Im looking at a miracle. But, Im looking at the marvelous work of God.

We are His handiwork, His workmanship that was created to do good works. Youre looking at something incredible, but why dont we see that? Phillips added.

Phillips said that people tend to allow their pain to go undealt with, and the pain blocks the precision of what God created. The pastor warned that those people become blind to the notion that tomorrow can bring less pain.

Phillips understands the plight that people face with the pain of loss because his father died when he was 12 years old. In 1986, Phillip's father suffered a stroke and heart attack, causing him to slip into a coma. He died weeks later.

My father suddenly, tragically, died. And my entire orientation of the Word of God was completely disrupted. Everything I thought about God changed, he recalled.

Every time I heard: God was good, I was suspicious of His goodness. Every time someone say, God is just, I was suspicious of His justice. Every time someone told me about a characteristic or attribute of God that Hes omnipotent, omniscient, that Hes all-powerful, all-knowing and all-seeing, I was suspicious about it because [my] father was gone, Phillips recounted.

After his fathers death and funeral, Phillips remembers questioning God: How could you do this to me?

Pain entered into my life at this moment, and I could no longer see the stars. I could no longer see the skies. I could no longer see the reflection of His creation in the mirror. All I could see was pain, he said.

Obscured by the loss, obscured by the devastation, obscured by the tragedy, and I had no way to acknowledge that to anybody because I was too young. And so consequently, when tragedy goes unacknowledged, it also goes uninterrupted, he added.

At his fathers funeral, the preacher quoted Job 1:21: the Lord gives and the Lord takes away.

When you experience a traumatic event, no one can acknowledge it and you dont have a language for it. The traumatic things of life that come, the tragedies of life seemingly cant be interrupted. And thats what I was facing and that funeral. It was the biggest blow to my psyche  more than the death of my father, Phillips recounted.

And I said to myself: If thats the type of God He is, I dont want nothing to do with that type of God. And I shut God out of my heart completely, Phillips continued.

I didnt want to know Him. I didnt want to feel Him. I didnt want His presence in my life. Because of the loss that I suffered.

Phillips said many people face losses in life that give them the wrong perception of who God really is.

When a loss happens, other losses often follow and leave people with unanswered questions, according to Phillips.

You sit here living a quiet life of desperation knowing in your heart; God, what about that? And God, why did that happen over there? And ultimately, what we are asking is: What kind of God are you? What we are asking God is simple: God, what type of God are you? Phillips explained.

Phillips said many believers have experienced they describe as the goodness of God.



You know that Hell never leave you or forsake you. He will be with you to the very end of the age, Phillips said.

You know some things about God in hindsight, but I didnt have that luxury. I had yet to have the experiences that I have at this very moment.

Everyone suffers losses, Phillips said, but Christians should reflect on the positive attributes of God to garner a complete perception of who God is.

I think we do ourselves a disservice, oftentimes, when we come to God with hindsight alone, without the complete and total perception and angle of what Hes trying to do, he said.

Sometimes, Christians treat their pain with relationships or things outside of God because they might think God doesnt have the answer. And Phillips said, if the pain goes undealt with, it cannot be transformed.

It is human to block suffering and pain, Phillips said. [Nobody] wants that.  But hurt cannot be healed until it is heard.  Anger is easy to deal with more than sadness because anger allows me to omit my pain to somebody else and to project it somewhere else so that I dont have to deal with it.

If you dont transform you will always transmit, and the problem with that kind of transmission is it spreads quickly, faster than omicron, he added.

Pain can be transferred generationally, according to Phillips.

It doesnt just stay with you. It goes through your DNA and confines your kin all the way down to the fourth generation, where they have a design team without an experience; where they have a fear for an experience they never even had, he said. Because your children were parented based upon your past situation.

The pastor said that the enemy wants Christians to feel stuck. But God set each person in a day that never stops moving.

As sure as you open your eyes up tomorrow, youve stepped into another term. When you woke up this morning, you didnt realize that you woke up to another term.  That means you got another shot. That means you got another 24 hours, he preached. That means whatever happened yesterday is stuck in yesterday. God designed this thing so that pain had a barrier to not reach you in your tomorrow. But, its really up to you.

There are some things that Christians cannot stop from happening, such as pain and the inevitable response: weeping.

God set you in motion already.  To deal with the pain  you got to go into weeping mode, Phillips said. Baby, you got to cry that out.  Get all of that out of your system. If you dont go through weeping mode, youll try to fix the situation and control the circumstance and rebuke the suffering.

You got to learn how to use what youre going through as momentum to go to the next dimension, he said as the crowd burst into applause.
Angels are working 'undercover' as God's 'secret agents' in people's lives: Greg Laurie

Megachurch Pastor Greg Laurie said Sunday that angels are actively involved in each Christians life as he preached a special message on angels and demons. But he couldnt say for sure if each believer has a guardian angel but believes they might.

Laurie, the senior pastor of the multi-site Harvest Christian Fellowship based in Riverside, California, who for decades has hosted stadium crusade events attended by thousands, assured during his Jan. 30 sermon that while humans live in the natural world, angels coexist in the supernatural world  or the invisible world"  which is just as real as the natural world.

Here is a question that pops up every now and again: do we have guardian angels? Here is my definitive answer: maybe, the evangelist said in the middle of his sermon. I would even add that I think theres a good chance that we do.

Laurie declared that Jesus made an interesting statement in Matthew 18:10 while speaking of children.

He said, Make sure you dont look down on these little ones for I tell you, their angels in Heaven always see the face of my Father in Heaven, he recited. Interesting he said, their angles in Heaven.

So maybe we dont all have guardian angels, he continued. Maybe only children have guardian angels [or] a special angel assigned to [them].  But maybe adults have them as well.

He referred to a passage in Acts 12 after Peter was released from prison and went to a home where believers were gathered for prayer. But the believers did not believe initially that Peter was at the door, and they said, maybe its his angel.

Does that mean that Peter had a personal guardian angel? I dont know the answer to that, he said. But even if we dont have personal angels, you can be sure that we do have angels assigned to us that are involved in our lives.

Earlier in the sermon, Laurie said that he wanted the congregation to know that angels are actively involved in your life and they have special work that they do in the life of the Christian.

Thousands and thousands and thousands of angels are in Heaven, working on earth, serving the Lord, Laurie said. Most of these angels are holy; some of them are fallen. You find them in the Old and the New Testament.

The Bible, Laurie said, has about 300 references to angels but warned that there are so many misconceptions that people tend to have.

The angels primarily work undercover. It is not the job or the nature of an angel to draw attention to themselves, he said. They are just doing Gods work. You might describe them as Gods secret agents. Another way to put it, they are sort of like Navy SEALs. ... Their job is to get the job done.

There are times when Angels have stopped Christians from doing the wrong things and times when angels have protected Christians from harmful situations, Laurie said.

There are times when an angel has prompted you [and] spoken directly to you, the 69-year-old said. I wonder how many times weve been headed for destruction, and God changed our course by directing an angel to stop us from where we were going.

Later in the sermon, Laurie said believers often hold preconceived notions about angels that don't align with what the Bible says.

I know we often think of an angel as feminine, like shes as pretty as an angel.... In reality, when angels do appear visibly, they appear as men, Laurie said, referring to how angels appear in the Bible.

The pastor said some often say that when someone dies, they become an angel. He referred to the saying: Well, God just needed another angel in Heaven.

We dont become angels.  Thats wrong.  Angels are angels. Theyre created beings. They are spoken of in Scripture, Laurie detailed.

We find them worshiping the Lord, and we also see God using angels to dispatch judgment and justice on the earth, he said, pointing the audience to Hebrews 1:14. Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?

Although angels exist to do the work of God, Laurie said the devil and his demons (fallen angels) also exist to oppose the work of God.

Laurie defined demons as angels that rebelled against God, following Satan.

When there was this angelic rebellion, two-thirds of the angels stayed on Gods side, but one-third of the angels went on the devils side, Lucifers side, he said. Dont underestimate the power of demons.

Laurie said the Bible speaks about people being demon-possessed and having supernatural strength.

When police officers are answering a call for some kind of danger, the first thing they usually do is call for backup, he said. Youre in a spiritual battle. And you need to call for backup. You need the Lords strength in your life.

Laurie said people will often ask the question: Why did God create the devil?

God did not create the devil as we know him, Laurie answered. Satan, also known as Lucifer, was once a very high-ranking angel.

Lucifer was obsessed with himself, he added. He did not want to worship God. He wanted to be worshiped himself. And so, he was brought down because of his pride.

Laurie stated that although Satan lost his once exalted position, he still has access to the presence of God. However, the angels and God outnumber Satan and his demons.

The bad news is: thousands of angels are now serving the devil with demon powers. But the good news is: thousands of more angels are serving God, protecting us, guiding us and doing all the things that they do for us, Laurie preached.

Dont make deals with the devil.  [The devil] has a well-organized network of demon powers doing his bidding," Laurie said. "It appears that the purpose of demons are twofold: to hinder the purposes of God and to extend the power of Satan  [and] to stop God and His people from doing what the Lord wants us to do and then to extend the reign and power influence of Satan."

The preacher explained that Jesus summed up Satans agenda in John 10:10, which says, "The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy.

Laurie stressed that Satan is not more powerful than God because Satan does not have the same abilities.

God is omnipotent, meaning Hes all-powerful. Satan is powerful, but he has limitations to his power. God is omniscient, which means He knows everything. Satan knows a lot, but not nearly enough as God, Laurie said. God is omnipresent, which means He can be everywhere at the same time. Satan can only be in one place at one time.

The devil opposes God and accuses and condemns believers by sending them thoughts, he stated.

You see: [the devil] sends the thought and then condemns us for having that thought, Laurie said. Listen, its not a sin to be tempted. Its only a sin when I invite temptation in for tea. Its been said: You cant stop a bird from flying over your head, but you can stop it from building a nest in your hair.

The problem is not in the bait; its in the bite, he relayed. Its not a sin if the bait is dangled in front of you; its only a sin if you bite it.

Christians should confess their sins and rid their lives of grudges, anger, and resentment to overcome Satan, the pastor advised.

He said that when Christians don't confess their sins, the devil will obtain a foothold in their lives.

You will never overcome the devil if theres unconfessed sin in your heart.  When sin remains unconfessed, there is a wall between us and God. Again, if well confess our sin, [1 John 1:9]: Hes faithful and just to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness, Laurie maintained.

Confessing to sin doesnt mean Christians need to confess to every sin they have committed, he stated, adding that it is an acknowledgment that Ive sinned, Lord.

And in this case, you are agreeing with God, he continued.

Two other ways that believers can overcome the enemy, Laurie said, is through the blood of the Lamb and by the Word of their testimony, which means they must read and preach the Gospel.

Listen, in the spiritual battle, the way we move forward, the way we gain ground, the way we take enemy territory is by preaching the Gospel, he said, quoting Ephesians 6.

When were in spiritual battle gaining ground by preaching the Gospel, the devil will not be able to stop us, he added. Because greater is He that is in us, Jesus says, then he who is in the world.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/watch-state-dept-spox-tells-ap-journo-to-find-solace-in-russia-if-doubting-us-credibility-1092732187.html

Watch: State Dept Spox Tells AP Journo to Find Solace in Russia if Doubting US Credibility

Watch: State Dept Spox Tells AP Journo to Find Solace in Russia if Doubting US Credibility

During a press briefing on Thursday, reporters who challenged US State Department spokesperson Ned Price for evidence of claims he was making against the... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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The US claimed on Thursday that Russia was planning to stage fabricated attacks by Ukrainian military or intelligence forces as a pretext for a further invasion of Ukraine, Price told reporters. The Pentagon made similar claims, after the reports were leaked to the Washington Post earlier in the day.As Price relayed it, One possible option the Russians are considering, and which we made public today, involves the production of a propaganda video, a video with graphic scenes of false explosions, depicting corpses, crisis actors pretending to be mourners, and images of destroyed locations or military equipment - entirely fabricated by Russian intelligence.Russian Permanent Representative to the EU Vladimir Chizhov has denied the reports, saying Russia has never used false flag incidents.However, after Prices opening monologue, he was quickly grilled by reporters at the presser, including Associated Press reporter Matt Lee, who is known for holding government representatives feet to the fire.Lee began by asking Price about what action are you talking about, with Price eventually claiming that he was really talking about actions Russia is alleged to have performed in the past, even though Lee pointed out Prices wording suggested an action in the present, for which the US had evidence.We told you a few weeks ago that we have information indicating Russia also has already prepositioned a group of operatives to conduct a false flag operation in eastern Ukraine. So that, Matt, to your question, is an action that Russia has already taken, Price told the reporter.Matt, this is derived from information known to the US government. Intelligence information that we have declassified, Price responded before being momentarily interrupted by Lees line of questioning. It is intelligence information that we have declassified.Unsatisfied with the response, Lee questioned: Well, where is it? Where is the declassified information?This back-and-forth continued for several minutes, with both men becoming increasingly frustrated and pointed with one another.Lee quickly fired back, stressing to Price that he was providing no evidence to support the administrations allegations.But then its unprovable! I mean, my God, what is the evidence that you have that suggests that the Russians are even planning this? I mean, Im not saying that theyre not, but you just come out and say this and expect us just to believe it without you showing a shred of evidence that its actually true, other than when I ask, or when anyone else asks, whats the information, well I just gave it to you, which was just you making a statement.Price then moved on to other reporters questions, who also challenged him for evidence, but were more willing to accept Prices response.However, journalists who watched the exchange took to social media to speak out against Prices bad faith remark, pointing out that there was ample reason to question US government claims supposedly based on intelligence, such as those leading up to the 2003 US invasion of Iraq.Ironically, four years ago on November 27, 2018, Price condemned the Trump administrations press secretary, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, for doing the same thing when she said that the administration had no definitive evidence that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was connected to the assassination of Saudi dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi.The US has claimed since November 2021 that a buildup of Russian troops on the border with Ukraine is a prelude to an invasion of the country. Moscow has denied this, saying its troops are engaged in drills and asserting its right to deploy Russian soldiers anywhere on sovereign Russian soil. The Ukrainian government has said largely the same, downplaying Western invasion hysteria by pointing out that such deployments are typical and legal, and that the Russian troops deployed could not form an invasion force.Moscow has put forth security proposals designed to lower tensions in the region, including that NATO cease its eastern expansion and promise not to admit Ukraine to the alliance or position offensive weapons there. While NATO has said it has no plans to station missiles or other forces in Ukraine, it has so far refused to write off the possibility of admitting Ukraine, saying Kiev can decide its own security arrangements.

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An MRI with increased signal in the posterior part of the internal capsule which can be tracked to the motor cortex consistent with the diagnosis of ALS. Credit: Frank Gaillard/Wikipedia

A new cloud-based data resource co-developed by scientists at Cedars-Sinai provides the research community with a comprehensive set of tools to help identify new subtypes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurological disorder.

The web-based tool is part of a collaborative effort with more than 100 scientists called Answer ALS, which includes biological and clinical data from more than 1,000 ALS patients. The information is intended to help investigators across the globe better understand ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Details of the resource are described in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Neuroscience.

"This is one of the largest resources for ALS samples in the world," said Clive Svendsen, Ph.D., executive director of the Cedars-Sinai Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and a co-author of the paper and co-director of the Answer ALS program. "It's a critical step forward in finding new treatments for a very complex disease that has really no effective treatments available."

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that damages nerve cells known as motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the loss of muscle control. With no known cure, it is usually fatal within five years of diagnosis.

Discovering new subtypes of ALS can provide clues to how an individual may respond to treatment. This information is useful for guiding disease management and can help lead to the development of new drugs that target specific cells and pathways that may only be found in certain subgroups.

"We don't think ALS is one disease," said Svendsen, who is also a professor of Biomedical Sciences and Medicine. "It's very complex and we think there are different subtypes that can be targeted differently. We just need to uncover them."

To successfully build the database, scientists first had to create a model of the disease that could be used to help study how ALS develops. Creating models of neurodegenerative diseases has been notoriously challenging because of the lack of reliable animal models or patient samples at early disease stages.

To overcome this issue, the investigators used induced pluripotent stem cells (known as iPSCs), which can be deployed to produce any type of cell in the body and at any stage of development. The team then converted these stem cells into the neurons of the spinal cord that die in ALS, essentially a personalized neural biopsy. These were then analyzed using the latest molecular techniques, which gave the team the ability to look for proteins that may have been affected in the disease.

"Proteomics is one of the most powerful tools we have to really look at the protein content of a cell, providing us insight into attractive treatment targets," said Jennifer Van Eyk, Ph.D., professor of Cardiology, Biomedical Sciences and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and a study author who led the proteomics analysis.

The details of the model were previously published in the peer-reviewed journal iScience. The team, with Svendsen as one of the two corresponding authors, showed an integrated multi-omics approach can be used to understand more about motor neurons from iPSCs.

With the model in place, investigators collected blood samples from more than 1,000 ALS patients from around the country. The samples were sent to Cedars-Sinai, where Dhruv Sareen, Ph.D., executive director of the Cedars-Sinai Biomanufacturing Center and director of the induced pluripotent stem cell facility at the Regenerative Medicine Institute, and his team reprogrammed the white blood cells into iPS cells for each patient that were then turned into motor neurons.

"Creating these many iPS cell lines and generating neurons from them has never been done at this scale before," said Sareen, who is also an associate professor of Biomedical Sciences. "We hope this platform will allow us to dive more deeply into the mechanisms leading to ALS. Furthermore, we can now provide these patient cells to the entire research community through our repository."

All of the data is continually being collected and deposited into an online, open-source portal, where scientists can download all the data from every sample.

"This was a huge collaborative effort, and we hope the information we collected will help lead to the discovery of new molecular subtypes of ALS. With this knowledge we may at last be able to develop drugs targeted to these subtypes, laying the groundwork for new and improved therapies," Svendsen said.

The Answer ALS platform was designed by Svendsen and Jeffrey Rothstein, MD, Ph.D., from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore. Other collaborators include scientists from the University of California, San Francisco, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of California, Irvine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbia University, Emory University, Washington University in St. Louis, Northwestern University, On Point Scientific Inc. and Microsoft Corp. A full list of contributions can be found in the paper.

Explore further ALS research suggests stem cells be 'aged' to speed progress toward finding treatments

More information: Emily G. Baxi et al, Answer ALS, a large-scale resource for sporadic and familial ALS combining clinical and multi-omics data from induced pluripotent cell lines, Nature Neuroscience (2022). Journal information: Nature Neuroscience , iScience Emily G. Baxi et al, Answer ALS, a large-scale resource for sporadic and familial ALS combining clinical and multi-omics data from induced pluripotent cell lines,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41593-021-01006-0
A $70 million water park is coming to Tropic Falls, formerly known as The Park at OWA, in Foley, Alabama. The slated opening for the water park is May 2022. COURTESY TROPIC FALLS
Texas pastor allegedly killed by daughter during prayer session

Pastor Gloria Jordan, the former leader of First Pentecostal Church in Wichita Falls, Texas, whose death authorities initially ruled to be natural causes, is now believed to have been killed by her daughter during a prayer session.

Jordan, who died on Nov. 21, 2021, at the age of 70, had spent decades of her life in ministry like her parents before her, Deacon Benjamin Farmer Sr. and Sue Esther Edmonds Farmer, according to her obituary.

Two years after Gloria Jordan and her husband, Elder Glossy B. Jordan, moved to Wichita Falls, they started First Pentecostal Church in 1981. The church still meets today in a quaint, run-down building.

She served faithfully and assisted her husband in any capacity she could, her obituary said. Gloria served as President of the Missionary Department and Sunday School Teacher.

By 1983, the late Gloria Jordan finally accepted Gods call to minister His word. When her husband died in 2015, she took over the leadership of her small church. She was faithfully carrying out her duty until her death that was initially ruled a medical death by authorities, according to court records cited by KFDX.

A few days after she died, however, a family friend raised concern about the nature of her death with police and a follow-up investigation was done, which included an autopsy.

Police then interviewed the only other person who was at home with Pastor Jordan and her 41-year-old daughter, Gloria Ann Jordan, at the time of her death.

The witness told police that she did not share what she knew at the time of the initial investigation because she was afraid of Gloria Ann.

She later revealed that on the day the pastor died, her daughter had been praying for her. During the prayer, the younger Jordan laid hands on her mothers forehead and pushed her back into a chair until it fell over with her mother.

Gloria Ann Jordan then straddled her mothers body and sat on her chest even as the pastor was yelling that she could not breathe. The witness said she tried and failed to help the pastor, but her daughter sat on her until she stopped breathing.

Police later questioned the younger Jordan about her mothers death, and she admitted to straddling her mother during prayer but refused to offer more details when pressed by police.

Her mothers death was ruled a homicide by asphyxia after the autopsy.

Just four days after her mothers death, Jordan was arrested for assaulting her cousin in the same home where her mother died.

The cousin told police that Jordan asked her to drive her to a doctors appointment in Dallas, but when she asked if Jordan had money for gas after repeated requests, Jordan grabbed her head and shouted: I rebuke you in the name of the Lord!

Jordan then began slamming her cousins head into a wall. The cousin reportedly called police after they both fell to the floor and she was able to roll away.

Police arrested and charged Jordan with manslaughter on Tuesday for her mother's death.
A general view of pedestrians crossing the bridge with the Yarra River in Melbourne, Australia.

Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images

Australia may look to fully reopen to international tourism by Easter in April, the country's Prime Minister told a local radio station this week.

"Well I can't give you a specific date yetand that's because we're just watching how omicron is sort of washing over the eastern states," Scott Morrison said of reopening during an interview with a Cairns radio station, according to news.com.au. "I'd like to see us get there soon  certainly before Easter, well before Easter."

Morrison did not give an exact date for the planned reopening.

"We've just got to get some medical advice further on that, a bit more work to do with the states to make sure we're comfortable," he said.

Australia has maintained stricter border measures than many other countries during the pandemic. Currently, only certain groups of people, including Australian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family are allowed to enter the country, according to the Department of Home Affairs.

Vaccinated travelers from certain countries, like Singapore, Japan, and South Korea are also welcome to arrive quarantine-free.

Australian carrier Qantas, which resumed flights between the country and the rest of the world last year, requires all passengers to be vaccinated against COVID-19 before boarding.

Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States classifies Australia as a "Level 4" destination, indicating a "very high" level of COVID-19 transmission in the country and telling Americans to avoid traveling there. A destination is classified as "Level 4" if there are more than 500 COVID-19 cases reported per 100,000 people over the last 28 days.

Australia's potential opening in April would be ahead of neighboring New Zealand, which plans to reopen to Australians as well as all visitors who can normally travel visa-free to the country no later than July, according to the New Zealand government.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram.
Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.) discusses the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act





House Democrats are attempting a balancing act, trying to promote their legislation aimed at easing supply-chain woes and making the U.S. more competitive with China - without making it all about China.

Leaders of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus are urging fellow lawmakers not to engage in fearmongering against China as they talk about the bill out of concerns that it could stoke discriminatory sentiment against Asian Americans.

They warn debate on the legislation, titled the America COMPETES Act, comes in the wake of a spike in hate crimes against Asian Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic - which stems from a virus first identified in China.

Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.), the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus chair, sent a letter to colleagues last week warning that reliance on a "fear of China to make our case" would encourage xenophobia. She also spoke up during a House Democratic caucus meeting on Wednesday to further stress her point.

"I said that I was very excited to pass the America COMPETES Act. It is so important to ensure that we maintain our global leadership and that we make vast improvements in our science and technology resources," Chu told The Hill as she recounted her remarks to colleagues in the closed-door meeting. "But I said I also had trepidation because the rhetoric will be heightened and heated, and that I wanted them to all consider the way our messaging on China could impact Asian Americans across the country."

Hate crimes against Asian Americans have skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 10,300 incidents against Asian Americans have been reported since March 2020 and September 2021, according to the advocacy group Stop AAPI Hate. And data from the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism released this week found that anti-Asian hate crime increase by 339 percent last year compared to the year prior.

Chu further pointed to the 1982 killing of Vincent Chin, a Chinese American man who was beaten to death by two white autoworkers who blamed their job losses on the growth of Japanese auto manufacturers at the time.

Story continues

"Many Asian Americans are afraid of history repeating itself regarding economic issues," Chu said.

Top Democrats have made a point of sharply limiting discussion specific to China while promoting the bill ahead of its expected passage on Friday or even avoiding it altogether.

They have largely focused on highlighting the bill's provisions providing funds to incentivize domestic semiconductor chip production amid the global shortage, help build domestic supply chain resilience and increase investments in scientific research, and how that would benefit Americans.

Yet numerous provisions of the legislation are clearly aimed at the Chinese government, such as sanctions for its human rights abuses against the Uyghurs in the Xinjiang region and the creation of a "China Watcher" program that designates Foreign Service officer positions to "monitor and combat Chinese malign influence" at U.S. posts abroad.

Other elements of the bill formally condemn the Chinese government for its actions undermining Hong Kong's established autonomy and provide temporary protected status and refugee status for qualifying Hong Kong residents.

A Statement of Administration Policy from the Biden White House this week notably did not make any mention of China. Instead, it described the bill as an "important step to strengthen our supply chains, revitalize domestic manufacturing, and reinvigorate the innovation engine of our economy."

A statement from Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) after the bill was first unveiled last week similarly did not contain any references to China.

During a 12-minute House floor speech on the bill on Wednesday, Pelosi mentioned China - or the alternative name of the People's Republic of China (PRC) - a total of four times. One of the mentions was while reading aloud a statement from the Teamsters in support of the bill, while two others were in the context of criticizing China for its human rights violations and trade practices.

"A vote for this bill would strengthen our supply chains and lower costs for families. And it would bring forceful action to assure that America - not the People's Republic of China, but America - writes the rules of the road for the 21st century," Pelosi said to conclude her speech.

By contrast, virtually every Republican speaking during House floor debate centered their arguments around the threats to U.S. competitiveness posed by China.

And they criticized the Biden administration for omitting any mention of China in the Statement of Administration Policy, arguing it's counterproductive during a debate over how to assert the U.S. geopolitically.

"They left the word China out of their anti-China bill. I think that speaks volumes about the lack of content when it comes to countering the malign influence. This is the greatest threat, a generational threat, to our national security," Rep. Michael McCaul (Texas), the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told reporters.

As they've pressed for greater sensitivity to discussion of countering China on the world stage, leaders of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus successfully secured amendments to the bill that formally condemn anti-Asian hatred and ensure that the bill's provisions aimed at countering the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) influence are implemented in a way that doesn't lead to discrimination against people of Asian descent.

Chu said that lawmakers can achieve a balance while discussing China by using more precise language to criticize the Chinese government's policies. Rather than broadly condemning China and its people, she said, they should specify their criticisms are about the government controlled by the CCP.

"I'm not saying don't talk about China at all. But let's make clear that these are the policies of the CCP and not the policies of all the Chinese people from China. So instead of saying, 'China is immoral,' then why don't you instead say on the Uyghur issue, 'The CCP, the Chinese Communist Party, is guilty of human rights abuses against its own people,'" Chu said.

"Because remember, the Chinese people are victims too."
NORFOLK, Neb. -- An ag venture has announced plans for a second major soybean processing plant in Siouxland.

N Bowdish, which bills itself as a company that develops value-added projects for the agricultural sector, said Thursday that it plans to build a $375 million soybean crushing plant near Norfolk.

N Bodiwsh is in the process of constructing a $350 million soybean crushing plant near Alta, Iowa. When it's up and running around March 2024, the Buena Vista County plant will crush 38.5 million bushels of soybeans annually, or 110,000 bushels daily, and employ 50 to 60 people.

A groundbreaking is planned later this spring for the Northeast Nebraska plant, which will sit on 480 acres and is expected to have the capacity to crush 38.5 million bushels of soybeans annually, or 110,000 bushels a day. Once it's up and running in 2024, the plant is expected to employ 50 workers.

This will be the first modern soybean processing facility to begin operations in Nebraska, said Nick Bowdish, president and CEO of the company. A subsidiary company, Norfolk Crush, will own the new facility.

Projects like Norfolk Crush will help Nebraska remain an agricultural powerhouse, said Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts.

The driving force behind our success is the hard work of innovators and leaders like Nick, Ricketts said. "Norfolk Crush will be a great addition to support our soybean production in the state.

Last week, Ag Processing Inc. announced plans to build a soybean processing plant near David City that will have the capacity to process 50 million bushels a year. AGP said it expects that plant to be up and running sometime in 2025.

Scott Ritzman, executive director of the Nebraska Soybean Board, said there has been a lot of activity in the soybean crushing industry lately, largely because of the demand for soybean oil.

"Soybean oil is one of the main feedstocks in biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel," Ritzman said. "As more states continue to pass low-carbon fuel standards, these clean and drop-in alternative fuels are meeting a new demand."

Just since last fall, plans for new soybean processing plants have been announced in Iowa, Kansas and in two locations in North Dakota.

Nebraska ranks fourth nationally in soybean production, making it a strategic location for the plants that will help to meet domestic supply needs while also boosting export opportunities, Ritzman said.

"Overall, these two new crushing facilities will increase demand for Nebraska soybeans and give local soybean farmers access to opportunities in the global supply chain," he said.

Bowdish also is involved with the the development and management of Midwest ethanol plants, including Siouxland Ethanol in Jackson, Nebraska.
A Metropolitan Police Department officer raises her baton before striking Rosanne Boyland outside the West Terrace tunnel at the U.S. Capitol. (Video Still/U.S. Department of Justice)

She Was Begging and Pleading: Jan. 6 Protester Recalls Witnessing Rosanne Boyland Die

It was hell itself.

Philip Anderson doesnt like to talk about that part of Jan. 6 at the U.S. Capitol. Its just too painful, even with family and friends.

Its so terrifying to even bring it up. I dont have to remember that until my very last day, until I die, the 26-year-old told The Epoch Times. It was the most terrifying thing Ive ever experienced.

Anderson was at the bottom of a pile of people caused by a stampede out of the West Terrace tunnel when police unleashed gas on the crowd of protesters.

Right next to him lay Rosanne Boyland, 34, of Kennesaw, Ga. They were crushed by the weight of a heap 4-5 people deep. It created an indescribable squeeze. The pain was made worse by a lack of oxygen.

You have to just lay still. Youre just air-swapping with the people that are on the ground with you, Anderson said. If you move even a little bit, bones are going to break in your leg, bones are going to break in your arm. Im thinking, I have to stay still and hope that my heads not going to get smashed.

Tragedy in the Tunnel

It all changed in an instant.

Anderson and Boyland walked into the tunnel at the same time that afternoon. They did not know each other, but Anderson would play an important role for the Georgia Trump supporter in her tragic final moments.

I did not know her. I didnt know anything about her, Anderson said. I didnt even know that she existed until I saw her out of the corner of my eye.

The tunnel was packed with people, shoulder to shoulder, about a dozen across and perhaps 20-25 deep. The crowd was trying to access the doors leading to the Capitol.

Protesters try to render medical assistance to Rosanne Boyland at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (Body Cam/U.S. Department of Justice)

However, police had other plans. They unleashed some type of gas on the crowd. It seemed to suck the air out of the tunnel.

I felt it, because I cant breathe. Thats what it felt like, Anderson said. So I turn around and run away. I try to get out as fast as I can. If I had stood still, I honestly felt I was going to die. Thats what it felt like, Youre not going to be able to get air inside if you dont get out now.

The crowd tumbled out of the tunnel, down the steps like a waterfall. Anderson felt his legs give out. He fell, dropping like a swimmer doing a belly flop. His fellow protesters piled up around him.

It wasnt that I tripped or anything like that. I cannot get air so I can move my arms, my legs. And then I fall.

The terror was palpable as the weight of the pile crushed those at the bottom. Anderson and Boyland ended up near each other.

She was begging and pleading. She was trying to scream but she couldnt scream very loudly, Anderson said. She gave up on it and thats when she reached out. She grabbed my hand. Shes reaching out to grab something. When she felt my arm, she grabbed my hand. She didnt get to hold on for very long, though.

Anderson felt such agony, he tried to prepare himself to die.

Youre Killing People!

I could feel that I was dying, Anderson said. I could feel it. That was the scariest part. I accepted that I was going to die. I was just praying to God at that point, Just make it to where the pain stops, because I just need to go.

Anderson believes Boyland knew her time was quickly running out.

She was holding my hand and then her grip completely loosens, Anderson recalled. Im pretty sure that shes accepted at this point shes going to die. She knows its the end.

Anderson, a conservative activist from Mesquite, Texas, would have met the same fate if it were not for fellow protester Jake Lang. He was at the tunnel entrance, begging police to stop pushing people out of the tunnel onto the pile.

Surveillance video shows Lang, wearing a gas mask, waving frantically at police.

Im screaming, Stop! Stop! Youre killing people. Stop pushing! Lang told The Epoch Times in an interview from the District of Columbia jail, where he is being held awaiting trial on Jan. 6-related charges.

Lang tried to extract Boyland from the pile, but every time he helped remove one body from the mass, another one landed on top.

Every single time I pulled another person off her, the police pummel somebody back over on top of her, Lang said. So shes stuck at the bottom of this dog pile.

Lang found that Anderson was not as tightly wedged, so he next tried to move him. As he grabbed Anderson under the arms, he noticed the young mans tongue hanging out of his mouth.

Like a bear-hugging motion, Im able to pull his body weight up on top of my chest, Lang said. I unbunch him from this dog pile and I start dragging him down the steps. Lang got Anderson to a medic station, where volunteers revived him.

Boyland Beaten While Unconscious

A short time later, Boyland was freed from the pile, but she was no longer breathing. Protesters tried to render aid, but police sprayed many of them with mace.

Her Georgia friend, Justin Winchell, begged police to help. On police bodycam footage, he can be seen saying, Rosanne! Rosanne! Rosanne! His tone got more desperate. Shes gonna die! Shes gonna die! I need somebody! Shes dead!

At that point several enraged protesters charged the police line and engaged in hand-to-hand combat.

Justin Winchell (in the teal jacket at right) reacts to a Metropolitan Police Department officer striking his unconscious friend, Rosanne Boyland. (Bodycam/U.S. Department of Justice)

The bodycam video showed Boyland lying on the concrete nearby, unconscious. Then a Metro DC police offer began to beat the unconscious Boyland, striking her repeatedly in the ribs and the head.

Winchells shock is evident by his horrified facial expression captured on bodycam video.

The Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia denied a Freedom of Information Act request by The Epoch Times for the officers bodycam footage.

The department has not replied to inquiries from The Epoch Times on the circumstances surrounding Boylands death.

The medical examiner for the District of Columbia ruled Boyland died from an overdose of a prescription medication. Family members said Boyland was prescribed the drug to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Its not known if the autopsy documented any injuries from the beating, or noted evidence from Boyland being crushed. The medical examiner wont release any information beyond the cause and manner of death. He ruled Boylands death was an accident.

Jake Lang rescued Philip Anderson from a stampede pile at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (Photo Courtesy of Jake Lang)

That conclusion does not sit well with Anderson. She was literally okay, walking around like everyone else: normally, he said. The difference is that she got gassed and she got crushed and she got some mace on her. And then after all of that happened to her, shes getting beat down on with the baton.

The beating, that was just the cherry on top, Anderson said. She probably would have died even without that. But that sealed the deal, honestly, if she wasnt already dead.

Lang and Anderson both carry emotional scars from what they witnessed on Jan. 6.

I have horrible PTSD, waking up from nightmares, seeing her face, Lang said. Its just horrible because there is no closure. They murdered her and they wont release the officers information.

Anderson said he is angered by portrayals of Boyland in mainstream media as a domestic terrorist.

She did nothing. She attacked no one. She didnt even say anything to anyone, Anderson said. Weve got half the country saying Rosanne is a terrorist, she got what she deserved. For what? She didnt do anything. Its crazy to me.
"A substantive dialogue continued on the situation around Ukraine and issues related to the Russian initiative to develop long-term legal guarantees for the security of Russia," the Kremlin said in a statement.

Putin drew Macron's attention to Kyiv "provocative statements and actions", Kremlin added in the statement.

The leaders also exchanged views on international issues "in the context of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union." (ANI/Sputnik)
Fired Pharmaceutical Workers Explain Why They Didnt Get COVID-19 Shots

A major pharmaceutical company this week fired many employees who refused to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Syneos Health is a global pharmaceutical outsourcing company with some 28,000 employees in more than 110 countries. It contracts with bigger pharmaceutical companies including COVID-19 vaccine maker Johnson & Johnson/Janssen.

While J & J employs pharmaceutical representatives, it also contracts with Syneos Health to provide additional pharmaceutical representatives. Each Syneos representative is paired with one from J&J and they work together, selling drugs to doctors and other health care providers.

Its the same exact job, same exact customers, same exact expense reporting. Everything is the same, were just employed through different employers. And yet were being forced to be vaccinated and theyre not. Were being told its because we cant do our job, yet my Janssen counterpart can be unvaccinated, have an exemption, and still do the same exact job, one sales representative told The Epoch Times.

Two recently fired Syneos pharmaceutical representatives spoke with The Epoch Times on the condition of confidentiality as they finalize their employment benefits and search for new work.

They said J & J is granting permanent medical and religious exemptions for their employees, allowing them to keep their jobs, but Syneos exemptions were temporary and their time to comply is up.

Employees who applied for exemptions from the shots got a good news/bad news letter from Syneos on Dec. 9. The good news: the company was granting a temporary exemption. The bad news: The exemption ended on Jan. 31, along with their jobs. Until then, employees were not allowed to enter any U.S. Syneos building.

Florida employees got a different letter, granting them a temporary exemption from the vaccine. The letter allows them to enter Syneos buildings in Florida, but company buildings outside the state are off-limits. Their exemptions will be re-evaluated in 30 days, the letter said. Those in Florida are protected by a state law making it more complicated for companies to mandate COVID-19 shots.

Syneos did not respond to a request for comment in this story and did not provide the number of affected employees in this global company. Former employees said the mass firing was company-wide.

Pharmaceutical Workers Say No

Syneos pharmaceutical sales representatives, many with science or health backgrounds, attend a two-month pharmaceutical school when hired. Here, they are taught the science behind the drugs they sell. They were not selling COVID vaccines, but they have a working knowledge of pharmaceuticals.

A lot of us were questioning the shots because they didnt go through the proper safety and efficacy studies that are traditionally required for all medications. And being in the medical industry, part of our job is discussing safety and efficacy about our products and our competitors products with doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. For there not to be safety and efficacy data with these COVID shots, many of us wanted to wait, one former Syneos employee said.

These employees didnt view the shots as bad. They just wanted more data before making a decision. Many people took the shots without questioning it.

The government said do this; it is in your best interest and you can go back to normal, a former employee said. As time has gone on, weve seen, obviously, these are not actual vaccines that inoculate you and give you immunity. And there are a lot of reports ofand people that we know personallywho have been injured from these shots, so theres a good percentage of us that never got them. As data continued to come in, we were not going to get them.

Some already had COVID-19 and trust their immune systems, some had religious objections.

God gave us an immune system and has already proven that our natural immune system works, so theres no reason to take an experimental medication, a former employee said.

The other former employee says its a matter of not living in fear.

I know that COVID has taken peoples lives just like the flu has, and pneumonia, and other viruses. But Im not going to inject myself with something that has no long-term data. Im not comfortable being an experiment for these pharmaceutical companies, and COVID has such a high percentage of survival rate that theres no need for me to.

So many people just live in fear, and they are living through what the media is telling them, and its just unfortunate that more people dont actually do some research. The survival rate is so high and Im so healthy, that I just dont have a reason to be afraid.
Ukrainian lawmakers hold state flags of Ukraine's partners to show their appreciation of political support and military aid during a session of parliament in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Feb. 1, 2022.

Tensions on Ukraines eastern border have the West on edge nowadays, and the U.S. and Russia  former Cold War rivals  are facing another showdown.

The situation is concerning for me in the larger sense, but also on a personal level, since I have family serving Jewish communities in both Ukraine and Russia. At the same time, as a student of Judaism I know we are not disconnected from events unfolding on the other side of the world, nor are we helpless to intervene in some way.

The 18th century founder of the Hasidic movement Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov taught that everything one sees or hears must serve as catalyst for personal growth and betterment of character. As a private citizen I have no suggestions for the world leaders, diplomats and military strategists charged with handling this crisis, nor do I have any predictions of what will happen. But that does not mean theres nothing I can do about it.

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Some see an ominous foreboding in the fact that 2022 is the centenary of the founding of the Soviet Union. I prefer to focus on a more recent historic anniversary, one that signals a brighter outcome.

January 31 marks 30 years since 13 heads of state and foreign ministers  including U.S. President George H. Bush and Russian President Boris Yeltsin  gathered for the first summit-level meeting of the United Nations Security Council. The Friday peace summit reaffirmed the central role of the United Nations in maintaining world peace and strengthening its capacity for preventive diplomacy, peacemaking and peacekeeping.

The next day, during a Shabbat gathering held at Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters in Brooklyn, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, spoke extensively about this historic summit.

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Here, before our very eyes, the major powers are proclaiming their desire to establish a new and humanitarian world order of justice and peace, the Rebbe said. This is a tangible foretaste of the idyll envisioned by the biblical prophet Isaiah: They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, nor shall they learn war any more.

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It is noteworthy that this quote from Isaiah is engraved on the wall facing United Nations Headquarters in New York City, the location of that historic meeting.

As evidenced by current events, we are certainly not there yet, but humanity today craves peace over war. We must get to a point where war will no longer be an option, and there is something we all can do to achieve this reality.

The famed 12th century Jewish sage Maimonides declared that one single good deed, spoken word and even thought can usher in the Messianic era of world peace envisioned by Isaiah and the other biblical prophets. If this sounds naive to you, consider that a little over a century ago it took just a few gunshots fired by a 23-year-old Serbian political activist to plunge Europe into the First World War. Just as light is more powerful than darkness, goodness is more potent than evil.

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My takeaway from the current global drama is the vital importance of increasing our acts of goodness and kindness. Become an ambassador of goodness. Set aside a giving box in your home or office and place some money in it each day for charity. Be generous with your compliments and spread good cheer. Seek out opportunities to be helpful and gracious and inspire others to do the same.

While the relevant parties work feverishly, with G-ds help, to de-escalate tensions in Eastern Europe, we can do our part in solving the underlying problem. You never know which single good deed, spoken word or thought will tip the scales to usher in the era of true global peace.

Rabbi Levi Greenberg is an associate rabbi at Chabad Lubavitch of El Paso.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Rabbi Levi Greenberg: 'Swords into plowshares' - why Ukraine matters to me
DECATUR  The snow and wind are just a few of the weather challenges facing Central Illinois in the coming days.

After the snowfall ends, the temperatures are expected to plunge into the teens throughout the day and single digits in the evenings.

Warming centers located throughout Decatur are prepared for the homeless and others in need of a safe place to stay.

Were doing good, said Ken Mackey, Salvation Army case manager. We still have cold cot beds available.

However, the Salvation Army, located on West Main Street in Decatur, is always in need of blankets, sheets, pillows, body wash and food.

The clients at the Oasis Day Center, on Cerro Gordo Street in Decatur, have a place to hang out before they head to the Salvation Army and other shelters in the evenings. However, the day center shortened its hours to 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the colder days. The clients will have to go to the evening shelters early. After the cold spell ends, the clients will be able to again visit from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

According to Jamie Harrelson, an associate with the Oasis, the facility is prepared for the cold weather. We have a decent amount (of space), she said about the Oasis availability. We have the women (from the womens shelter) and a few men that came from the Salvation Army, but its pretty calm around here.

Shelter and warming centers Decatur Civic Center 1 Gary K. Anderson Plaza Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Oasis Day Center 243 W. Cerro Gordo St., Decatur 7 days week/365 days a year They will do their best to remain open during this weather event. EMA will monitor status and update. Good Samaritan Inn 920 N. Union St., Decatur Hot Meals daily 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 7 days a week They will do their best to remain open during this weather event. EMA will monitor status & update Salvation Army 137 S Church St, Decatur Men's overnight shelter, 30 "cold cots". Available through April dependent upon weather. Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m., breakfast 6 a.m., closes at 7 a.m. for the day. 217-428-4672 Carriage House, Womens Emergency Shelter 16 available beds Call first 217-422-2790

The Oasis offers resources, including showers, laundry, mail delivery, access to a telephone, healthcare check-ups and access to community resources. However, the facility is in need of items to keep their clients warm. Hand warmers and blankets are always on their list of needs.

In the meantime, the clients and staff make the most of the situation. People are helping us shovel and get the salt out, Harrelson said. Were actually doing pretty well here.

Careage House, Decaturs only women and childrens emergency shelter, isnt a warming center for the public. The home is open from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. We have women with multiple (amounts) of kids, said Dan Watkins, Gods Shelter of Love executive director.

Gods Shelter of Love offers three shelters, all prepared to help women and families. The staff encourages their clients to use the time to find a job, take a class, and otherwise better their lives and the lives of their children. While at the shelters, they have a place to rest, eat and shower. However, like many shelters, the facility has needs, especially during the cold weather conditions. They are often in need of toilet paper and paper towels. And because of the influx of kids, probably more meat, Watkins said. A couple of our kids are teenagers, so they do eat a lot.

Towels and twin sized sheets are always needed, according to Watkins.

How to support Warming centers and other social agencies welcome your help. Although monetary donations are always accepted, each facility lists items needed to help support their organizations.

Although they offer meals, the Good Samaritan Inn, on North Union Street in Decatur, is not considered a warming center with opening hours from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The facility is available for lunch meals only. Most of the people in danger of the cold are also going to be staying at the shelters, said Nicky Besser, Good Samaritans executive director.

Good Samaritan offers support for the local warming centers by providing other services. The Salvation Army often closes the doors during the day; however, because they remained open due to the bad weather, they needed more food.

Were dropping off food at the Salvation Army so those guys dont have to leave the building, Besser said.

At the beginning of the storm on Wednesday, Good Samaritan fed 60 people, lower than average for the daily service. But considering the conditions, I was surprised, Besser said. And thats with the shelters being open.

No matter the conditions, Good Samaritan was open and ready to serve a meal to the community. We do what we do with what we have, Besser said. But we all work together to try to do what makes the most sense.
The foreign minister of Myanmars military regime will not be invited to a mid-February Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ministerial retreat, host Cambodia said Thursday, citing the lack of movement on an agreement the regional bloc struck with the junta leader last year.

Since there has been little progress in carrying out ASEANs Five-Point Consensus, the ASEAN member states did not reach a consensus to invite Myanmar State Administrative Council foreign minister to participate in the upcoming FM retreat to be hosted by Cambodia, Phnom Penhs foreign ministry spokesman Chum Sounry said in a written comment to RFAs Khmer Service.

Therefore, we have asked Myanmar to send a non-political representative instead. Meanwhile, we encourage Myanmar to be represented at the retreat by a non-political figure, rather than leaving the seat empty. It is up to Myanmar to decide, he added. The retreat is set for Feb. 16.

The decision came a week after Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, the rotating chair of ASEAN for 2022, urged junta chief Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing during a video conference to uphold the Five-Point Consensus.

Min Aung Hlaing, who led the Feb. 1, 2020 overthrow of Myanmars democratically elected government and heads the junta, agreed to the consensus when he met ASEAN leaders in Jakarta last April in a summit convened to address the crisis in Myanmar.

The agreement calls for an end to violence, dialogue between the junta and the deposed National League for Democracy (NLD), and for the ASEAN special envoy and delegation to visit Myanmar to meet with all parties concerned.

Myanmar marked the first anniversary of the coup Tuesday with no progress to show on those issues, while in the past year, security forces have arrested nearly 8,900 civilians and killed more than 1,500. Military conflict has engulfed large swathes of the country of 54 million, displacing more than 300,000 people.

Speaking to RFAs Khmer Service, Cambodian political analyst Seng Sary told said Cambodia has adopted ASEANs way of dealing with regional affairs after Prime Minister Hun Sen had exhausted solo efforts.

Hun Sens Jan. 7-8 trip to Myanmar  the first by a foreign leader since the coup  drew widespread criticism for conferring legitimacy on the regime.

It seems Cambodia is listening to criticism from other ASEAN members and the international community, said Seng Sary.

Cambodia is disappointed, with the lack of progress with the junta, but doesnt regard the Burmese issue as its priority, he added, suggesting Phnom Penh would pass the hot stone to Indonesia, next years ASEAN chair.

Myanmar's junta spokesman did not respond to RFA telephone calls for comment, but the head of a pro-military think tank in Myanmar, shrugged off a decision he said was anticipated by the regime and faulted ASEAN for bowing to outside pressure..

We already expected that Myanmar might not be invited to attend the meeting. This decision is not a big, significant one, said Thein Tun Oo, director of the Thaeninga Institute for Strategic Studies, a think tank in Naypyidaw founded by former military officers.

As we had said before, Myanmars internal affairs will not be greatly impacted because we are not able to attend the (ASEAN) meetings.

Thein Tun Oo added that ASEANs decision making [regarding Myanmar] has departed from its core principles such as non-interference in fellow members affairs.

We accepted there was a change in political dynamics within ASEAN, but we also have found that there was some external pressure from other powerful nations, he added.

Cambodias announcement was welcomed by the National Unity Government (NUG) of former lawmakers and officials ousted in the coup.

The ASEAN countries now firmly showed their stand and seriousness on the Five-Point Consensus, said Bo Hla Tint, the NUGs special representative to ASEAN.

He called on ASEAN, other diplomatic partners and U.N. agencies to seek a more strategic, result-oriented and practical approach to end the violence in the country and allow equal humanitarian access to all communities in need.

Than Soe Naing, a political and ethnic affairs analyst in Myanmar called the exclusion of the junta envoy good, auspicious news for people of Myanmar and the NUG that helped dispel concerns that ASEAN might give a green light to the junta.

But now, ASEAN stands firmly on its consensus that aimed to help solve the countrys crisis. Myanmar democratic forces are very grateful for the decision.

Reported by RFAs Khmer Service and by Khin Khin Ei and Khat Mar of the Myanmar Service. Translated by Kyaw Min Htun. Written in English by Paul Eckert.
The planned Driftwood LNG facility will be capable of producing up to 27.6 million tons of liquefied natural gas a year. The Houston company behind the massive project has agreed to pay $125 million for natural gas assets in the Haynesville Shale in northwest Louisiana.
Floyd County Lifesaving and First Aid Squad member 460, Roger Hollandsworth, died Jan. 27 at 64 years old, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and kindness, and a staple Floyd business: the Floyd Xpress Market.

Roger was one of Floyd Countys biggest fans and strongest supporters, having not only nurtured businesses, but also community events and neighbors. He was a member of the Rescue Squad for more than 40 years, and owned Floyd Xpress for 33 years.

More than a decade ago, Roger returned to Floyd from a trip to Georgia with a humble tale of heroism, having saved a choking woman at a Ruth Chris Steak House.

Fellow rescue squad member and writer, Don Johnson reported in 2010, while waiting for their meals to be served, Roger heard someone behind him say shes choking. After 30 years with Floyd County Rescue Squad, without disturbing his dinner party, Roger instinctively slipped out of his chair and walked to a nearby table where people were obviously disturbed by a woman who was struggling to breathe.

He immediately recognized that she was not exchanging air and was growing pale. Introducing himself as a member of Floyd Countys volunteer rescue squad, Roger proceeded to perform abdominal thrusts (also known as the Heimlich Maneuver).

After four thrusts, a piece of steak was dislodged and she began to breathe again, Roger says, adding, it happened so quickly and quietly, hardly anyone else in the restaurant knew it had happened.

Less than eight hours after announcing Rogers passing Jan. 27, the Floyd Lifesaving and First Aid Squad announced Johnson, the organizations former vice president and photographer, had also died.

Don and his wife Donna, both life members, ran calls and contributed in so many ways to the squad, until recent years when Dons health began to decline, the group explained.

On Rogers passing FCRS called Roger one of the best friends weve had. He has always been good to keep us laughing, as well as keep us all on our toes. Our hearts are very broken.

Other community members noted Rogers spirit is irreplaceable, and said, Hes truly been one of a kind.

His obituary notes Rogers dedication to supporting the Chance Harman Memorial Fund, and Brian Harman, who officiated Rogers funeral services, described Roger as a giver.

Roger helped everyone; he didnt discriminate, he said Jan. 31, emphasizing, Roger was a special man that cant and wont be replaced.

Services were held Feb. 1 at the Topeco Church of the Brethren. His obituary added, Roger was a casual type person and his family requests everyone dress casual for his service.

If we all had Roger Holandsworth's attitude this world would be a much better place, Harman said.

Rogers last call for Floyd Rescue was made from the graveside service Feb. 1 by Daniel Sommers.
Gov. Kay Ivey announced that Dothans House of Ruth is one of 18 nonprofit agencies statewide to receive quarterly allocations for the states Domestic Violence Trust Fund.

The trust fund was created by the Alabama Legislature in 2015 to help the agencies provide shelter and other services to domestic violence victims and their families. The funds are derived from a fee on marriage licenses.

This is a bill I supported as lieutenant governor and one I continue to support today, Ivey said. The trust fund monies provide additional resources to these agencies to provide safe shelter for victims who are fleeing from violent or potentially violent situations and to help those victims rebuild their lives.

The Alabama Office of Prosecution Services, which makes a prosecutor available and provides technical services in domestic violence cases, was granted $80,000 to support its services and the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence, which is made up of domestic violence agencies, was awarded $114,723.

All other 16 agencies will be allocated funds quarterly.

Appropriations to each agency are determined by several factors including population of their service area and the number of domestic violence occurrences within those service areas. In 2021, a total of $1.7 million was distributed to the agencies.

House of Ruth serves victims of Barbour, Bullock, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, and Pike counties.

The trust fund program is administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.

Gov. Ivey realizes and appreciates the role these agencies play in helping individuals and families in dire circumstances, ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. ADECA is pleased to join with the governor and these agencies in providing safe haven for these victims and giving them hope for the future.

House of Ruth was also one of eight agencies statewide to receive a grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and administered by ADECA.

House of Ruth was awarded $456,720 to provide emergency shelter, advocacy, support groups, and other assistance to victims in its service area.

Domestic violence is a crime that inflicts physical and emotional abuse with long-ranging effects, so victims need access to professional help to begin the recovery process, Ivey said. I commend these organizations for providing compassionate assistance to victims at a time they need it the most and for offering domestic-violence education and prevention programs.

With the proper support, those who have unfortunately been victimized by domestic violence can begin taking steps to a brighter and more hopeful future, Boswell said. ADECA joins Gov. Ivey in support of these organizations and their important work in communities across Alabama.

ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim services, economic development, broadband expansion, water resources management, energy conservation, and recreation.
Described as a domestic incident, the case led to the 27-year-old getting charged with first-degree stalking and violation of a protective order, as well as misdemeanor breach of peace.While the local media has so far provided limited information on the incident, it looks like Wilfred Gonzalez wanted to track someones location with the help of an Apple AirTag. The device was hidden inside the car, but its not clear how the victim and the police ended up finding it.Apples AirTag is a device whose purpose is to make it easier for users to keep track of their belongings. It comes with a built-in battery and helps communicate with nearby iPhones to send its location in real-time to the owner.However, AirTags can also send notifications to nearby iPhones as a privacy measure, specifically because the device could end up being used for all kinds of nefarious purposes, such as stalking. Apple has also released an Android app, therefore giving users of Googles mobile operating system the necessary tools to find out if theyre being tracked or not.Most likely, the victim, in this case, received a notification on their smartphone and then alerted the police. Law enforcement then discovered the AirTag in the car and identified its owner.In theory, finding the owner of an AirTag is totally doable if the police reach out to Apple with either the device itself or its serial number. Each AirTag is linked with an Apple ID, and the Cupertino-based iPhone maker can use such information to figure out who purchased the tracker.The number of stalking cases involving AirTags , however, has skyrocketed lately, and Apple recommends users to call the police whenever they are notified theyre being tracked and believe they are in danger.
Dr. Elizabeth Weiss, a tenured professor of anthropology at San Jose State University who specializes in osteologythe study of human skeletal remains poses with skulls in an undated photograph. (Photo courtesy of Pacific Legal Foundation)

California Prof Accused of Racism Over Archeology Book Sues for Being Canceled

An anthropology professor is suing San Jose State University in federal court in California, claiming the school smeared her as a racist and colonialist, and punished her because shes been critical of a federal antiquities law.

The legal complaint (pdf) in the case, Weiss v. Perez, court file 5:22-cv-641, was filed on Jan. 31 with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The lead defendant, Stephen Perez, is being sued in his official capacity as interim president of San Jose State University (SJSU).

The public university retaliated against SJSU professor Elizabeth Weiss for her views, attorney Daniel Ortner of Pacific Legal Foundation (PLF) told The Epoch Times. Sacramento-based PLF, a national public interest law firm, is representing Weiss.

San Jose State University has labeled professor Weiss a racist merely for teaching and for advancing controversial ideas in her field. Theyve barred her from doing her research and done so unjustly, Ortner said.

Their actions are unconstitutional retaliation under the First Amendment, and we are eager to fight on her behalf.

Weiss, a specialist in osteology, the study of human skeletal remains, is a tenured anthropology professor at SJSU. Weiss has been critical of the federal Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), which, since 1990, has recognized aboriginal human remains, funerary objects, objects of cultural importance, and sacred objects removed from federal or tribal lands, as belonging to lineal descendants, Indian tribes, or Native Hawaiian organizations.

In the 2020 book she co-authored, Repatriation and Erasing the Past, she took aim at NAGPRA and similar state laws that require universities and museums to surrender Native American skeletal remains to tribal descendants. Such laws undercut objective scientific inquiry and run afoul of the U.S. Constitutions establishment clause by favoring religion over science, she argues.

Although Weisss views may be controversial, she had been writing about these topics for years without criticism or pushback within SJSU. In addition, her writings, research, and expression in and outside the classroom, are protected by the First Amendment, according to the legal complaint.

One of the defendants, Roberto Gonzalez, who chairs the SJSU Anthropology Department, previously praised Weiss for her ability to spark lively discussions among various stakeholders, and to boost the departments national reputation as a center that fosters creative and unorthodox viewpoints on important issues. And in 2019, the SJSU College of Social Sciences gave her the Austin D. Warburton Award of Merit, which SJSUs website says recognizes a faculty member whose achievements are worthy of international or national recognition, with significant impact upon a field of scholarship in the Social Sciences.

Despite her criticism of NAGPRA, which gives tribes the right to claim possession of remains through a process called repatriation, [in] her research and curatorial responsibilities, Professor Weiss has always complied strictly with NAGPRA and the California Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (CalNAGPRA), the legal complaint states.

But after her book was published, Weisss views gained heightened visibility and angered a Twitter mob and some of her colleagues. SJSU officials then began a poorly disguised campaign of retaliation against Weiss because they didnt approve of her views on NAGPRA. SJSU denied her access to its collection of skeletal remains, which she had long used and needs for her research, and barred her from taking X-rays and photographs of the remains, something her work also requires. Officials also eliminated or substantially diminished Professor Weisss academic position as a curator for the remains.

SJSU officials have threatened Weiss with disciplinary action or other forms of retaliation, if she dares to teach her views to her students in the future, the legal complaint states.

The university conducted something resembling a political show trial online.

After angry activists used social media in an effort to shame SJSU for initially standing behind Weiss, defendant Walt Jacobs, dean of SJSUs College of Social Sciences, hosted a Zoom event open to anyone in June 2021 for deans and chairs. It was titled: What to Do When a Tenured Professor is Branded a Racist. During the event, SJSU administrators, including Gonzalez, labeled Weiss a white supremacist. One administrator likened her views on repatriation to lynching. Gonzalez accused Weiss of being professionally incompetent, which could be a ground for revoking her tenure, and agreed with a colleague who said allowing her to teach students would be unethical.

Ortner said PLF is asking the court to allow Weiss to access the remains in the schools collection and enjoin the university from taking any further actions against her.

Because there are still outstanding threats that if she keeps teaching her material, theyre going to discipline her and remove her from the classroom, were seeking a court order so they cant do that, Ortner said.

The goal is to get her back in and be able to do her research, continue to carry out her duties that she wants to do and is expected to do, and assigned to do, he said.

The Epoch Times approached the school for comment.

San Jose State University is aware of the filing and is currently reviewing [it], Kenneth Mashinchi, the universitys senior director of strategic communications and media relations, wrote in an email response.
The US Army said Wednesday it will immediately begin discharging soldiers who have refused to get the mandatory COVID-19 vaccine, putting more than 3,300 service members - or about 3 percent of the largest military branch - at risk of being thrown out.

The Army's announcement makes it the final military service to lay out its discharge policy for vaccine refusers. The branch's deadline for vaccinations was December 15.

The Marine Corps, Air Force and Navy have already discharged active-duty troops or entry-level personnel at boot camps for refusing the shots. So far, the Army hasn't discharged any.

According to data released by the Army last week, 3,350 soldiers have refused to get the vaccine. Another 3,600 have requested medical or religious exemptions.

Roughly 97 percent of all Army soldiers have gotten at least one shot.

Last week, the Navy announced it had fired 45 sailors for refusing the vaccine. The Marine Corps has discharged 334, the US Naval Institute reported last month.

The Air Force said last month that it had fired 27 service members.

The Army said Wednesday it will immediately begin discharging soldiers who have refused to get the mandatory COVID-19 vaccine

More than 1.62 million US military service members are vaccinated, according to the DoD

'Unvaccinated Soldiers present risk to the force and jeopardize readiness,' said Army Secretary Christine Wormuth in a directive issued Wednesday

About 97 percent of all Army soldiers have gotten at least one shot and more than 3,000 have requested medical or religious exemptions.

In August, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin publicly announced a vaccine mandate for all service members, but allowed each service to set its own deadline.

The services, urgently trying to keep the coronavirus pandemic in check by getting troops vaccinated, remain besieged with exemption requests they are unlikely to approve.

Military branches and the COVID-19 vaccine mandate US Army Deadline: Dec. 15 Percent vaccinated: 97% Members dismissed: 3,300 at risk of being fired US Navy Deadline: Nov. 28 Percent vaccinated: 97% Members dismissed: 45 as of last week US Air Force Deadline: Nov. 2 Percent vaccinated: 97.5% Members dismissed: 64, including members in basic training US Coast Guard Deadline: Nov. 22 Percent vaccinated: 95.3%, including partially vaccinated Members dismissed: Unknown Marine Corps Deadline: Nov. 28 Percent vaccinated: 96%, including partially vaccinated Members dismissed: 334 Sources: Individual branches, Washington Post, US Naval Institute Advertisement

In an update issued January 26, the Navy said it had let go of 23 Active Component sailors and 22 entry-level sailors, who were separated during initial training in their first 180 days of service.

The branch has issued 10 permanent medical exemptions, 259 temporary medical exemptions and 59 administrative exemptions to active-duty service members. No religious accommodation requests have been approved.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone aged 5 and up gets a COVID-19 vaccine 'as soon as possible.'

In December, the Air Force said it had dismissed 27 service members for not getting the vaccine, CNN reported, while 37 people in basic training had already been removed, making for a total of 64 separations.

The branch had the earliest vaccine mandate deadline, which was set for November 2.

About 97.5 percent of active duty Air Force members are now fully vaccinated, according to the branch's latest numbers.

In the Marine Corps, five percent of service members remained unvaccinated as of January 20, according to the US Naval Institute, a non-profit, private military association.

The total was four percent when counting partial vaccination.

The Marines has adjudicated 3,293 requests out of 3,376 religious exemption requests, but only only two had been approved at the time.

The service approved 635 medical or administrative exemptions and fired 334 Marines for refusing to get the shot.

The Coast Guard had a deadline of November 22. By the end of the year, 94.4 percent of active-duty members were fully vaccinated, the US Naval Institute reported on January 3.

About 95.3 percent had received one shot. The branch hadn't fired anyone at that point.

The Army has said that more than 3,000 soldiers have been issued official written reprimands, which suggests they are already identified in the disciplinary process, and some of them could be among the first to be discharged.

Meanwhile, more than 3,600 have asked for religious or medical exemptions, according to a tally from January 26. Of those, only six permanent medical exemptions have been approved, while more than 5,800 temporary exemptions were granted.

The Pentagon has ordered all service members - active-duty, National Guard and Reserves - to get the vaccine, saying it is critical to maintaining the health and readiness of the force. COVID-19 cases continue to surge around the country as a result of the omicron variant.

Army Secretary Christine Wormuth issued the directive Wednesday ordering commanders to begin involuntary separation proceedings against those who have refused the shots and do not have a pending or approved exemption.

The Marine Corps has discharged at least 334 Marines for not getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Above, Marines attend a funeral service for NYPD officer Wilbert Mora on Wednesday

Last week, the Navy announced it had fired 45 people for refusing the vaccine. Above, Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Mike Ganousis fires an M4A1 carbine during an exercise on January 23 aboard the USS Harry S. Truman

'Army readiness depends on soldiers who are prepared to train, deploy, fight and win our nation's wars,' she said.

'Unvaccinated soldiers present risk to the force and jeopardize readiness. We will begin involuntary separation proceedings for Soldiers who refuse the vaccine order and are not pending a final decision on an exemption.'

The order includes active-duty soldiers, reserves serving on active duty, and cadets at the Military Academy at West Point, its preparatory school and ROTC.

The detailed order said soldiers will be discharged for misconduct, and noted that those who are eligible to retire may do so before July 1.

Overall, more than 650 Marines, airmen and sailors have been thrown out of the military or dismissed from entry-level training at boot camps, according to data released in the past two weeks by the services.

The military services have been going through a methodical process to deal with those who refuse the vaccine as well as those who request medical, administrative or religious exemptions.

The reviews require counseling with medical personnel and chaplains as well as senior commanders.
OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 3, 2022 /CNW/ - Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) is calling for the government to bring an immediate end to the trucker blockade at the Canada-U.S. border crossing at Coutts Alberta. The blockade is affecting about $44 million in trade between Canada and the U.S. every day.

The Coutts-Sweet Grass crossing is Alberta's most important connection to its largest market  the United States, operating 24 hours a day, seven-days-a-week with between 800 and 1,200 trucks moving goods across the border daily.

It's estimated that about $15.9 billion a year in two-way trade goes through this single crossing every year with almost as many goods being exported as imported. Now, the snarled traffic and bottlenecks are further disrupting the supply chain and are being felt by industries including manufacturing, oil and gas, agriculture, forestry, and retail.

"We were already in a supply chain crisis brought on by floods and pandemic related shortages, but this blockade is making a bad situation worse," said David MacLean, Vice President of CME's Alberta and Saskatchewan division. "We need this situation to end so we can keep manufacturers working."

MacLean said that costs and delays increase every additional day the blockade is in place. Even if the blockade is lifted today, it could take as long as a week or two to clear the backlogs, further putting manufacturers on the backfoot and affecting the supply chain.

"Manufacturers use the Coutts border crossing to export their products to the U.S. and beyond and to import critical business inputs," said MacLean. "This crossing is a critical piece of transportation infrastructure not only for Alberta but the entire country."

QUICK FACTS

The manufacturing sector represents more than 10% of Canada's gross domestic product.

Manufacturers directly support more than 1.7 million jobs in Canada.

The total manufacturing sales in 2019 surpassed $685 B.

Story continues

SOURCE Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters

Cision

View original content: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2022/03/c6326.html
Trucker Protest: Organizers Say Governments Have Yet to Reach Out

With the Freedom Convoy protest in Ottawa soon completing its first week, organizers said today no level of government has yet spoken to them directly, while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wouldnt confirm if he was considering opening such negotiations but says he remains steadfast in his vaccination mandate approach.

So far, no one from the federal, provincial, or municipal government has spoken directly with us. Instead, theyre using you, the media, to portray us as racist, misogynist, and even terrorists, said protest organizer Tamara Lich in a press conference on Feb. 3.

As a woman with Metis heritage, a mother and a grandmother, I am offended. The reality is that members of this freedom movement are average peace-loving and law-abiding citizens from all walks of life, who are fed up with being disrespected and bullied by our government.

Lich reiterated the protesters would not leave until they see a clear plan for the lifting of all pandemic restrictions and mandates, pointing to other regions that have recently made announcements to do so such as Saskatchewan, the U.K., and several countries in Europe.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was asked during a press conference if he would consider negotiating with the protesters. Trudeau did not reply directly but said he was following his election promise by imposing mandatory COVID-19 vaccination.

That is the decision Canadians took in the last election by voting for parties that were supporting those mandates, Trudeau said.

So having a group of people who disagree with the outcome of an election, who want to go a different way and bring in an alternative government, is a non-starter in a responsible democracy.

In the Sept. 20, 2021 election, the Liberals held on to their minority government with 160 seats won, and 32.6 percent of the national vote. The Tories, who opposed vaccine mandates, came in second with 119 seats and 33.7 percent of the national vote.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responds to a reporters question as he participates in a media availability held at a location in the National Capital Region which is not being made public for security reasons, Monday, January 31, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

A survey by Angus Reid released on Jan. 31 said that a slim majority (54 percent) of Canadians are in favour of ending the pandemic restrictionsan increase of nearly 15 percentage points from the results of a similar poll conducted in January two weeks earlier, which showed 40 percent in favour.

In light of comments the day prior from Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly that requesting military aid was an option in dealing with the protest, Trudeau was asked if military intervention was in fact being considered.

One has to be very, very cautious before deploying military in situations engaging Canadians, Trudeau answered.

It is not something that anyone should enter in lightly. But as of now, there have been no requests and that is not in the cards right now.

The Prime Minister added that police forces should do their job to resolve this situation, and said the federal government was providing help with the RCMP and intelligence services.

GoFundMe Blocked Funds

Keith Wilson, a lawyer from the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF) representing the organizers, addressed the issue of GoFundMe withholding millions of dollars collected by the Freedom Convoy during the press conference.

Wilson said the Freedom Convoy has taken steps to incorporate as a not-for-profit corporation and all banking and accounting arrangements have been made to ensure the funds are released.

GoFundMe, because they were bombarded with an orchestrated social media and other campaigns to try and shut it down or take it, has exercised heightened due diligence, which we welcome, said Wilson, whose outfit the JCCF announced today it has a team of lawyers on the ground to advise the organizers.

(L-R) JCCF Lawyer Keith Wilson and Freedom Convoy organizers Chris Barber and Tamara Lich hold a press conference in Ottawa on Feb. 3., 2022. (NTD)

Arrests Made Not Part of Convoy: Security Coordinator

A former RCMP officer who worked as a sniper to protect the prime minister also spoke at the press conference to discuss the matter of security.

Daniel Bulford, a 15-year veteran of the force who says he resigned because of the vaccine mandate imposed on the RCMP, is coordinating security for the protest.

Bulford said he has extensive experience with large events in downtown Ottawa, such as Canada Day, and said people should be reassured that the extensive police deployment in place during the trucker protest is normal.

The former officer also said organizers have been communicating with the various law enforcement agencies involved to relay safety concerns.

Bulford also called into question the information regarding arrests that have been portrayed as related to the protest.

I have it on very reliable information that people from the movement were not associated, and that offences related to property damage, and just an assault this morning, committed by agitators were witnessed and reported by a trucker and one of our volunteer security personnel, which was reported to the police and handled by the Ottawa Police Service, he said.

Bulford went on to mention the acts of kindness and civility seen around the protest site, such as providing food to the homeless, picking trash off the ground, shovelling snow, and guarding the War Memorial.
Montreal, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Steady light rain this morning. Showers continuing this afternoon. Much cooler. High 62F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 44F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.
Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with Chinese leader Xi Jinping during their meeting on the sidelines of a BRICS summit, in Brasilia, Brazil, on Nov. 13, 2019. (Sputnik/Ramil Sitdikov/Kremlin via Reuters)

The Kremlin Bets That US Sanctions Will Hurt Europe Worse Than Russia

US sanctions will fail because of China

News Analysis

While the United States continues to prepare a robust sanctions regime in the event of a Russian invasion of Eastern Ukraine, Moscow announced on Feb. 2 that gas agreements will be a central focus of the upcoming meeting between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

This strategic move reaffirms the Sino-Russian relationship two-fold: it demonstrates the rapidly expanding bilateral trade relationship between the two countries, especially in energy; and it also signals to Washington that its attempts to economically isolate countries it doesnt agree with can be overcome.

Energy supplies to China have reached record highs, said Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov. He went on to reference the Chinese gas market as one of the most promising and dynamically developing markets in the world.

Its no random coincidence that the Kremlin would choose this moment of heightened international tensions in Eastern Europe to publicly tout its growing energy cooperation with Beijing. Ushakov notably mentioned the importance of [keeping] a strong focus on the creation of financial infrastructure aimed at securing the Sino-Russian cooperation from the sanctions pressure of third countries.

This move by Moscow is ostensibly meant to demonstrate to the West that it is Europe, not Russia, that will suffer most from a deteriorating relationship. The continent remains extremely dependent on imports of Russian natural gas, even as the United States redirects an increasing amount of its liquefied natural gas exports toward Europe.

Rising gas prices have led some members of the 27-country bloc to break rank with Washington and prioritize their energy security. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban recently met with Putin in order to secure the expansion of a 15-year gas contract with Russian majority state-owned company Gazprom.

After initially refusing to commit to the U.S. sanctions regime, Germany has only recently stated that it may halt the Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline if Russia invades Ukraine. It remains to be seen whether Berlin would actually follow through with this, as the country is heavily reliant on imports of Russian gas. This dependency will be exacerbated as Germany aims to close all of its nuclear power stations by the end of the year.

A ship works offshore in the Baltic Sea on the natural gas pipeline Nord Stream 2 from Russia to Germany, on Nov. 11, 2018. (Bernd Wuestneck/dpa via AP)

Its clear that Europe will have to impose adaptive measures if a large-scale economic conflict with Russia ensues from aggression in Eastern Ukraine. Putin, however, is determined to demonstrate that he has other economic outlets if the West should turn its back on Russia. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) shares the same goal of undermining the U.S.-led international order, and is therefore keen to provide this outlet (in addition to the fact that Russian energy exports are certainly needed by Beijing).

Chinese scholar Wan Chengcai of the Xinhua Center for Global Studies recently discussed the need for Beijing and Moscow to cooperate in confronting Washingtons intimidation. Wan described the highly intertwined nature of the Sino-Russian relationship as encompassing four key areas: a resolved border issue; supporting economic development, which can be increased by confronting U.S. sanctions together; adhering to a similar concept of the new world order; and working together to oppose U.S. hegemony and disrupting Washingtons liberal order.

The Sino-Russian relationship was further expounded upon in a recent article by Chinas state-run media Xinhua, celebrating the achievement of Xiplomacy in building China-Russia relations in the lead-up to the Winter Olympics.

We share similar views on the international landscape and approaches to national governance, Xi is quoted as saying in an interview with Russian media. As explained by Wan, the international landscape that Xi is referencing is one in which the United States is a diminished player.

The second to last paragraph of the article reads as follows:

Taking a clear-cut stand against certain countries attempts to incite ideological conflict and confrontations over social systems, China and Russia have been advocating harmonious coexistence among different ethnic groups, systems and civilizations.

These statements make it clear that the worlds two most powerful authoritarian regimes are increasing their support of one another in order to obstruct U.S. foreign policy. This fact also suggests that the sanctions regime being currently proposed by Washington will be inadequate to deter a Russian move into Ukraine. The White House has acknowledged as much, which is evidenced by the decision to continue increasing the U.S. troop presence in the region.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
-- Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has seen continuous economic development with businesses thriving. People's livelihood has also been boosted with higher disposable incomes across the region.



-- Xinjiang registered a 7-percent GDP growth in 2021, totalling 1.6 trillion yuan (about 253.2 billion U.S. dollars). A total of 477,400 urban jobs were created in the region, reducing the surveyed urban unemployment rate by 1.1 percentage points to 2.2 percent.

-- In 2021, Xinjiang continued to increase spending on people's livelihood, with an expenditure of 398.23 billion yuan, accounting for 73.7 percent of the general public budget expenditure.

by Xinhua writers Zhang Zhongkai, Yu Tao, Sun Shaoxiong and Gu Yu

URUMQI, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- People of all ethnic groups in China's Xinjiang are leading a happy life thanks to good governance featuring development, stability and opening up.

Especially over the past five years, people in the region are no longer disturbed by terrorism as Xinjiang has been free of terrorist incidents for five consecutive years.

Thanks to the counterterrorism measures in Xinjiang, the region has achieved social stability and people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang have a growing sense of security and fulfillment.

Along with the opening up drive, the economic growth has been sustained and public well-being has been continuously improved in Xinjiang. According to the work report of the regional government released last month, Xinjiang registered a 7-percent GDP growth in 2021, totaling nearly 1.6 trillion yuan (about 251.2 billion U.S. dollars).

A cotton picker is seen in a cotton field in Gezkum Town of Xayar County, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 25, 2021. (Xinhua/Ma Kai)

INDUSTRIES DEVELOPING RAPIDLY

Xinjiang put an end to absolute poverty in the region by the end of 2020. People in the region have access to stable income and public services due to the region's anti-poverty efforts. Various industries have been developing rapidly.

The cotton industry -- a main industry in Xinjiang -- provides an important way for a large number of local farmers to increase their income.

At present, Xinjiang has formed a cotton industry system integrating cotton production, service, circulation, processing and sales. In 2021, the total cotton output in Xinjiang reached 5.13 million tonnes, accounting for 89.5 percent of that in the country. The mechanical harvesting rate reached 80 percent.

"Xinjiang's cotton industry is in the transitional stage from resource advantage to economic development advantage," said Song Lin, chairman of Xinjiang Beidacang Agricultural Science and Technology Development Co., Ltd.

According to the government work report, Xinjiang will stabilize supply of high-quality commercial cotton at a level of over 5 million tonnes this year.

Besides the cotton industry, industries of agriculture, animal husbandry, textile, wine, and petrochemicals have also been developing fast.

In the future, Xinjiang will actively develop industries such as new materials, high-end equipment manufacturing, biotechnology, new energy, new-generation information technology, and energy conservation.

Xinjiang will also increase the coverage and application of 5G networks, deeply integrate the Internet, big data and artificial intelligence with economic and social development, and promote industrial digitization.

OPENING-UP DRIVEN BY BELT AND ROAD

"Our village has converted the management right of 100 hectares of grassland into shares, and 395 herders have become shareholders of an economic cooperative," said Anar Balatibek, head of Kalasu Village.

The local government implemented reform measures to make "pastures become equity, villagers become investors, and everyone gets dividends."

The development measure in Kalasu Village is just an example of Xinjiang's deepening reform and opening-up policies in recent years.

A China-Europe freight train, loaded with walnuts for export to Turkey, pulls out of the Urumqi China-Europe Railway Express Hub in Urumqi, capital of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Feb. 20, 2020. (Xinhua/Ding Lei)

"A better business environment has given us confidence and motivation," said Abduvpur Abdugul, deputy general manager of a Urumqi-based trading company, adding that establishing a good business environment is necessary for enterprise development.

For the past few years, Xinjiang has taken proactive measures to build itself as a core area of the Silk Road Economic Belt and made progress. Xinjiang has opened its door wider to the outside world under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with related cooperation deals covering more than 50 countries and regions, regional authorities said.

The region has become an important channel for exchanges between countries along the BRI and an important gateway for China to open up to the West and foster opening-up on all fronts.

In 2021, Horgos Port and Alataw Pass, both major rail ports in Xinjiang, handled a total of 12,210 freight trains connecting China with European and Central Asian countries, up 21.5 percent compared to 2020.

Besides the launch of new freight trains to Central Asia, the prefecture of Kashgar in southern Xinjiang opened four new international air cargo routes in January in its efforts to further opening up, according to local authorities.

Last year, the total foreign trade of Kashgar reached 23.12 billion yuan, up 89.7 percent year on year.

"We will continue to optimize the business environment, advance the reform of customs operations, take advantage of the China-Europe freight train service to promote the exports of Kashgar's specialty agricultural products as well as clothing and textile products, to actively promote the high-quality development of local open economy," said Wang Chuanjie, head of Kashgar Customs.

PUBLIC WELLBEING IMPROVED

Buasi Maimati, a villager in Pishan County, is satisfied with the government's efforts to improve medical services.

"I had an operation to treat intestinal obstruction, and I only paid a few hundred yuan. The rest was reimbursed by the government, which greatly relieved the pressure of seeing a doctor," she said.

Children have fun in "Dove Lane" in the old town Tuancheng of Hotan City, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 27, 2020. (Xinhua/Shadati)

According to statistics of the regional health department, medical institutions have been set up in every town and village in Xinjiang.

In 2021, Xinjiang continued to increase investment in people's well-being, with an expenditure of 398.23 billion yuan, accounting for 73.7 percent of the general public budget expenditure.

According to the regional government, Xinjiang will implement a series of preferential policies in employment, education, and health to accelerate the improvement of people's well-being and continuously improve people's quality of life. 
For nearly three years, a trophy proclaiming a Black detective in the Wilmington Police Department the whitest Black guy in the office sat on the officers desk.

Thats according to City Council President Ernest Trippi Congo, who in a newsletter item Thursday, described how a Black male detective in the Police Departments Criminal Investigation Division was presented the trophy during roll call as a Christmas present from his white male supervisor in 2019.

It has been displayed on the detectives desk for everyone to see since it was presented to him, Congo wrote. While President Congo understands that the recipient might be ok with receiving this trophy, it has offended several Black detectives as well as other Black officers, both rank and non-rank. They are fearful to speak on it because of fear of getting transferred and/or retaliation.

This photo, as it was provided, shows a trophy reportedly given to a Wilmington police detective in 2019. The trophy has become the center of an internal probe three years later.

It wasnt until a photo of the trophy surfaced on social media that Mayor Mike Purzyckis office became aware of its existence, said John Rago, Purzyckis deputy chief of staff. It was then forwarded to police Chief Robert Tracy to further investigate, Rago said. Congos newsletter was shared publicly Thursday afternoon.

We were first made aware of this today, and immediately took action to launch an internal investigation, Tracy said in an emailed statement. This is a matter we take very seriously; this message is entirely inappropriate and not in keeping with the high expectations we have for members of our department.

Tracy said the Office of Professional Standards is conducting a full and thorough investigation.

LEADERSHIP CONCERNS: After Wilmington council votes 'no confidence' in police chief, now what?

UNRELENTING VIOLENCE: Response to violent crime unchanged as Wilmington hits new homicide record

In recent weeks, Congo has blasted department leadership for a lack of communication with residents; an unwillingness to consider solutions presented by council members and others; and an internal culture where rank-and-file members are unwilling to speak out over fear of retaliation by upper management.

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The criticisms ultimately led to a vote of no confidence in the police chief by council members last month.

Congo had previously expressed concern over a lack of diversity in upper management in the Police Department, and in the newsletter pointed to the racially charged trophy as an example of the work environment officers of color experience.

There are no minority supervisors in the Criminal Investigation Division for these officers to confide in and to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, the City Council president wrote in the newsletter. This is an example of the culture being displayed in the WPD, and it is unacceptable.

This isnt the first time that racial tensions have been on display in the department.

In early 2014, members of the Muslim Delaware community and National Black Police Association stood behind Capt. Faheem Akil, who is Black, after he faced internal charges for calling a white officer by a racial slur. The groups called for transparency in the internal investigation.

INTERNAL INVESTIGATIONS: Answers sought in Wilmington police slur probe

According to sources at the time of the incident, Akil had confronted another officer, Sgt. Vincent Knoll, after he used a racial slur against another Black officer. Knoll had used the N-word when referencing a Black officer during roll call, sources said. In confronting Knoll, Akil had used the word cracker, although sources accounts differed on the context of how it was used.

Esteban Parra contributed to this report.

Got a tip? Contact Amanda Fries at afries@delawareonline.com, or by calling 302-598-5507. Follow her on Twitter at @mandy_fries.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Wilmington council head brings racially charged police trophy to light
LONDON, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Northern Ireland's First Minister Paul Givan resigned on Thursday, as part of the protest staged by his party, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), against the post-Brexit trade arrangements known as the Northern Ireland Protocol.

"Today marks the end of what has been the privilege of my lifetime," Givan told reporters as he resigned, a day after one of his ministers tried to halt the inspection of goods arriving from British mainland, a move that violated the Northern Ireland Protocol and angered the European Union (EU).

The Northern Ireland Protocol, as part of the agreed rules following Britain's departure from the EU, means goods between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland could continue to be sent seamlessly across the border which is now the only EU frontier within the British Isles. However, a de-facto border was created down the middle of the Irish Sea, which has long been heavily criticized by the DUP and businesses saying it has made it more difficult to send goods to Northern Ireland from the British mainland.

"Our institutions are being tested once again. And the delicate balance created by the Belfast and St Andrews agreements has been impacted by the agreement made by the United Kingdom government and the European Union which created the Northern Ireland protocol," Givan said.

His resignation means Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill, of Sinn Fein party, with whom he shared power, automatically resigns from office. It's understood that other ministers in the Northern Ireland executive will remain in office place to implement previously agreed policy but can take no new decisions.

In response, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has called for an early election for the Northern Ireland Assembly.

"I want to be clear, we cannot stagger on in the months ahead without a functioning executive. Sinn Fein will not facilitate this," she said. 
A warrant has been issued for an area man after allegedly being shot with his own handgun during a physical altercation that reportedly occurred on Saturday in Iron County.

A press release from the Iron County Sheriff's Office states that Iron County deputies responded to a gunshot victim on Iron County Road 15 between Bixby and Belleview on Saturday.

When deputies arrived on the scene, they reportedly located Quince D. Sumpter, 28, of Belgrade, who had been shot in the stomach with a small-caliber handgun. The injured man was transported to a St. Louis area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to the sheriff's office.

The release states that a 28-year-old woman was also located on the scene. The woman was also injured, reportedly suffering facial injuries during the alleged physical altercation that took place at the location of the shooting.

During the investigation, authorities determined that Sumpter and the woman were involved in a verbal altercation. The two reportedly drove approximately one mile west on Iron County Road 15 when they both exited the vehicle, and the argument became physical.

The report states that Sumpter retrieved a small handgun from the vehicle and fired eight rounds in the area before pointing the firearm at the woman. The woman reportedly attempted to wrestle the gun from Sumpter, and during the struggle, a single shot was fired from the weapon, striking the man in the lower portion of the stomach.

The handgun was hidden in a wooded area near the crime scene, according to police.

The press release states the investigation concluded with a no bond warrant for Sumpter's arrest being issued for multiple felony charges, including the Class A Felony of first-degree assault, the Class C Felony of unlawful possession of a firearm, and two Class D Felonies of endangering the welfare of a child - creating substantial risk.
A state conservation officer killed a young mountain lion last week after it was accidentally caught by a trap near the Missouri River in northeast Nebraska.

The 8- to 9-month-old male was too injured to be saved, said Sam Wilson, furbearer and carnivore program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Its the second mountain lion kitten found in the area in the past few months. Last fall, an abandoned 4- to 6-month-old male was rescued, rehabilitated and sent to the zoo in Scottsbluff.

Based on their ages and the location, the two could be part of the same litter, Wilson said, but DNA testing will confirm whether theyre related. And they could be two of the three kittens captured by a landowners trail camera last summer, along with their mother.

Before that, Nebraska's only known mountain lion breeding populations were in the Niobrara River valley, Wildcat Hills and Pine Ridge regions  though solo animals have been spotted throughout the state, including on the edges of Lincoln late last year.

The lion killed last week was found in a trap near Maskell, in Dixon County, according to Ponca Public Schools, which posted Facebook photos of the conservation officer showing it to students.

The trap was set legally and the trapper reported it to Game and Parks after finding the animal, so he wont face any legal consequences, said Duane Arp, assistant administrator of the commissions law enforcement division.
Bob Russell jumps enthusiastically out of his pickup onto the side of the road near an unassuming portion of state Route 6, just east of Adna.

He runs over to a nearby stream  Mill Creek, its convergence with the highway about a half-mile from its confluence with the Chehalis River. The creek is slow moving, filled with plenty of debris.

But this isnt just any creek. This creek also flows through the foothills to the north and through multiple properties, including Russells own.

It also produces salmon.

For me, I think people dont realize that salmon are in their backyard. Weve not communicated it well enough. There is no signage on any of these streets that say this is a salmon passage, the 63-year-old Chehalis resident said over the sound of passing cars.

Were not communicating, and I just think that people would treat the environment where the salmon were much better if they knew they were there. I know I did.

For Russell, it all began back almost eight years ago, back when he was approached by Lewis County Conservation District staff informing him they believed Mill Creek was used by salmon in the fall.

He didnt think so because hed never seen one  and neither did the other four dozen or so property owners living along the creek.

Oh, I was excited

On a recent cold, sunny day, Russell walked with his black labs, Rigby and Selah, near the confluence of Mill and Wisner creeks.

He tossed a rubber ball into the stream. Rigby  eager and attentive  followed his owners command to sit and wait.

OK, Russell said, his simple command punctuated with the dog splashing, full force, into the creek.

This is where it started.

Back in 2008, Kelly Verd, special projects coordinator with the Lewis County Conservation District, was conducting a habitat survey in the area during a culvert removal project on the main stem of Mill Creek that was blocking fish downstream of Russells property.

Shed heard from a coworker at another agency there used to be fish upstream from the location, but that they hadnt seen any sightings in recent years and the creeks were mapped out wrong.

Russell said he first got in touch with the conservation district around 2013. Verd had told him that Mill Creek had coho run potential by way of the Chehalis River. But he wasnt so sure.

That changed one rainy day in November 2014. Russell caught a glimpse of something spectacular.

He was walking the creek that day along a portion of his 88-acre property, coming down a hill along Wisner Creek, when he came upon a beaver dam.

The rains had come in two days before, and as I was walking in I said oh, the dam broke out  and the way they tend to break out is on one side, and they tend to swing like a door. And as I was looking at that dam, here comes a frickin hen  5- or 6-pound silver  swimming half a mile up, Russell said.

He ran home and called up the conservation district to report his findings. They were right  fish were using the stream, or at least they were trying to.

Oh, I was so excited, he said.

A shifting perception

Invigorated by the sighting, the Lewis County Conservation District reached out to him around that time with prospects of a stream enhancement project for Wisner Creek.

The previous owner of the property had attempted to reroute the creek channel by excavation for a hay field, but had pretty much destroyed the creek in the process and converted it into shallow wetlands.

It was a miracle in and of itself that Russell saw that fish after the flooding  the stream was nearly impassable, but a strong enough fish could make the trek during high-flow events, he said.

Seeing is believing. He really became quite an advocate, but Bobs a pretty enthusiastic guy, Verd said.

The Wisner Creek restoration effort would eventually get grant funding to the tune of $35,468  mostly from the state Salmon Recovery Funding Board  to begin a three-year reconstruction effort, which included reconstruction, maintenance and planting of 850 native shrubs, spruce and cedar trees.

When the trees grow high, the low-lying, invasive canary grass will die off, returning the land to a wet meadow and back to its natural state. They were also able to make fish improvements as well to the creek, establishing deep pools. Rerouting a 300-foot portion of the stream also opened up about a mile of habitat upstream for fish.

During the first big rain in November, and only during a window of about two weeks, coho salmon use the creek. Verd said its possible cutthroat also utilize Mill and Wisner.

Russell  a retired paper pulper  describes himself as a former beaver killer-turned-fish advocate. Back when he first purchased his property, he turned his nose to environmental issues and conservationists. But his perceptions shifted over time speaking to conservationists and loggers.

When I bought this in 2007 and 2008, there was no environmental thing in my head  I didnt even think about it. I didnt know what critical areas were. I wasnt a wetland scientist at the time. I bought it. I was just a capitalist, like everybody else raping the land, burning plastic, doing whatever, he said. It just changed me. Once you get the data, you cant go back and do the (things) you did before.

Verd also saw that change in Russell.

When we first met him, he knew about fish but never really thought of it before. So the more he learned about the project, the more he became the projects biggest advocate. Hes changed his mind over the years and hes really a conservationist now, she said.

His biggest fear now is that developers, counties, municipalities and even his own neighbors are going to do things that exacerbate the problem of damaging fish habitat.

When asked about his stance on the proposal to build a water retention dam along the Chehalis River near Pe Ell, Russell said hes still trying to figure it out. Hes somewhere in between.

Its hard to fathom that were going to win this battle without both, he said.

Reviving the stream team

The Lewis County Conservation District is reviving an old countywide education and volunteer program to help locals learn about fish, watersheds and fish habitat  and Russells property will be the pilot project.

Kenna Fosnacht, the conservation districts resource technician, is leading the charge to establish the Lewis County Stream Team, which will be modeled off other successful programs in Grays Harbor and Thurston counties. Part of the funding for it is coming from the Office of the Chehalis Basin.

She hopes the work will be educational and helpful to community members.

I want them to understand that there are salmon in our streams and they are worth protecting, and so they can take some amount of ownership in that, Fosnacht said. Im in the early stages of getting it started, but I think it could be something great for the community.

The project will at first focus on continuing Wisner Creek efforts on Russells property, but will grow in focus and scope as more people pick up interest. The group will host a tree planting event Saturday, Feb. 12, to kick off the efforts.
MOSCOW, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron held a phone conversation on Thursday, the third one within seven days, to discuss the Ukrainian crisis and security guarantees.

The leaders continued their "substantive dialogue" on the situation regarding Ukraine and the establishment of long-term and legally binding security guarantees between Russia and the West, the Kremlin said.

Putin noted the "provocative statements and actions of the Kiev leadership that run counter to the Minsk agreements" on the settlement of the Ukrainian crisis.

Putin and Macron held phone calls on Jan. 28 and 31 to exchange views on the same issue as tensions between Russia and the U.S.-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization have flared up over the past weeks. 
A piece of local legislation passed by the Alabama House of Representatives on Thursday allows the Houston County Commission to appoint whomever they want to the Houston County Health Care Authority, the governing board for Southeast Health in Dothan.

Under the legislation, Houston County Commission members have discretion to make appointments regardless of nominations submitted by the authority. The legislation, which would require an amendment to the states constitution, now goes to the Senate.

If it passes the Senate, Houston County voters will eventually get their say.

The Houston County Health Care Authority is made up of 13 members who each serve six-year terms. Twelve are appointed by the four district Houston County Commission members. The final member is the president of the hospitals medical staff.

Appointments to the Houston County Health Care Authority became an issue last year when District 3 Commissioner Ricky Herring refused to make an appointment for his district. Herring took issue with the process for appointments, claiming it did not allow commissioners to appoint who they really wanted to appoint.

This bill is not trying to overthrow the board, Herring said in an emailed statement. I want to work with them and this bill would ensure that the commissioner's voice is heard. But it's also the responsibility of the commissioner to nominate someone who has a high moral and ethical character and for the other commissioners not to vote to put someone on the board who has no business serving in that capacity.

In November, the majority of the Houston County Commission chose not to move forward with local legislation to change how appointments to the authority are made. That didnt stop local legislative delegates, however.

Rep. Steve Clouse and Rep. Jeff Sorrells, who both represent portions of Houston County, sponsored the local legislation presented to the House of Representatives earlier this week.

Houston County Commission Chairman Mark Culver, who does not make an appointment to the health care authority, said he had hoped to resolve the issue without having a constitutional amendment.

Its not our preferred way to resolve this issue certainly, Culver said.

Health care authorities around Alabama are given authority to oversee publicly-owned hospitals by the Health Care Authorities Act of 1982. The act permits such authorities to establish bylaws and procedures for appointment of board members, own property, and borrow money, among other powers. The intent was to give public hospitals more flexibility and allow them to operate under a corporate structure in the face of limited government funding.

Under the Houston County Health Care Authority bylaws, a nominating committee develops a list of names of possible appointments to fill vacancies on the authority board.

The nominating committee members  who are also authority members  are to confer with the county commissioner of their respective districts to discuss possible names for appointment. The nomination committee then presents three names for each vacancy to the full authority.

Once the full authority approves the nominees, the names are submitted to the county commission. That is where things broke down in the most recent round of appointments. Herrings preferred appointee, a former Enterprise city clerk, was not on the list of nominees for his district. Instead, the health care authority recommended the current authority member be reappointed.

Them not working with me shows that they are unwilling to work with a commissioner, and the commissioner represents the interest of the people, Herring said. The people hold the commissioner accountable and there is no accountability for the board. This bill will give the citizens of this county the opportunity to have a voice. This health care authority receives millions of dollars from the citizens of this county.

Sen. Donnie Chesteen said its too early to tell what will happen with the legislation when the full Senate reconvenes on Tuesday. He said there is concern about mounting opposition from health care authorities around the state.

I want to try to do the right thing here, so Im getting information from both sides, Chesteen said.
CERVICAL check campaigner Vicky Phelan has dedicated the Freedom of Limerick she was conferred with to her friend, the late Ruth Morrissey.

Following tonight's ceremony, Ms Phelan becomes just the fifth woman to have received the honour.

Continue reading below or click 'Next' for more photos

PICTURES: Alan Place

Limericks Ruth died at the age of 39 in 2020 following inaccurate readings of cancer smear tests in both 2009 and 2012, and at a ceremony in Dooradoyle tonight, Vicky described her friend as someone who also would deserve this honour.

Vicky, who now lives in Annacotty said when Mayor Daniel Butler contacted her before Christmas to confirm the council will be bestowing Limericks highest honour on her, it blew me away.

I assumed this type of award is for someone born and bred in Limerick or in the particular county where the award is offered. When he explained why and where it was coming from - that there were so many people contacting his office wanting to give me a card or a sculpture or painting, that there was a huge demand for something to be given to me to recognise the work I've done, I couldn't believe it, she added, Thats why it means so much to me, because its coming from the people.

Selfie!



Say hello to Limerick's new name on the Freedom of Limerick list @PhelanVicky



Of course she was minding me with my nerves. Always generous! pic.twitter.com/vao2nobPTo  Cllr Daniel Butler, Mayor of Limerick (@DanielButlerFG) February 3, 2022

During a pared-back ceremony, Vicky was joined by her closest family, including her husband Jim and son Darragh.

Mayor Butler said conferring the Freedom on the campaigner was his greatest honour, and added simply: Limerick loves you.

The ceremony saw a video where Limericks public paid warm tributes to the mum-of-two, something which she said had me in tears.

She revealed she gets five or six cards a day from people across the country.

Had the absolute privilege of singing in honour of #VickyPhelan tonight as she received Freedom of Limerick. Thanks for the call @ELangfordMusic  pic.twitter.com/nmkyOVgQZf  Ann Blake (@annblake78) February 3, 2022

But Shannonside is her home  so much so, she said, that if the Treatymen play her native Kilkenny in the All-Ireland final, she will be cheering on those in green!

Among those congratulating her on the honour was An Taoiseach Micheal Martin.

But she urged all of Irelands politicians to take a good strong look at themselves, and warned: There is still a lot of work to be done, particularly on the implementation of some of the recommendations from the cervical check report that Dr [Gabriel] Scally undertook, and particularly in light of what has happened in Kerry across the last number of weeks.
Multimillion-dollar gifts made by Dothan physician and philanthropist Marnix E. Heersink, M.D., to the University of Alabama at Birmingham and McMaster University in Canada will lay the foundations for a close partnership between the schools.

The investments, aimed at creating biotech commercialization hubs and global health institutes at both universities, will spur the growth of a new cross-border innovation economy in Hamilton, Canada, and Birmingham, as both cities continue the transition from heavy industry to health care and service industries.

In September 2021, Dr. Heersink made a gift of $95 million to the UAB School of Medicine. In grateful recognition, the school was renamed the UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine.

The gift will also establish and name the Marnix E. Heersink Institute of Biomedical Innovation and the Mary Heersink Institute for Global Health. The gift will provide support with both endowed and outright funds for key initiatives of the School of Medicine.

At McMaster University, the Heersinks are investing $25 million, which will create the Marnix E. Heersink School of Biomedical Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Mary Heersink Program in Global Health. The investment was announced on Tuesday.

We are becoming increasingly globalized. If those two wonderful universities can increasingly tie the world together, I think it is fabulous, said Marnix Heersink, an ophthalmologist and businessman who grew up in Burlington, Ontario, near McMaster. I cannot think of better schools to partner than McMaster and UAB. They are both located in old steel towns, whose economies are now transformed around medical education and research. The universities are young, and that gives them both the hunger and freedom to push boundaries.

Heersink says UABs position as the flagship academic medical center in Alabama, coupled with innovative curriculum within the School of Medicine and UABs other health-related professional schools, makes it an ideal partner for McMaster as both schools aim to educate a new generation of health sciences innovators.

Biomedical innovation and global health are priority focus areas for the UAB Heersink School of Medicine that align well with our emphasis on discovery and collaboration, said Selwyn Vickers, M.D., dean of the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, CEO of the UAB Health System, and CEO of the UAB/Ascension St. Vincents Alliance. I have no doubt that partnering with an outstanding institution like McMasters Faculty of Health Sciences will expand and accelerate our programs in exciting ways, with the potential to improve the health and well-being of people throughout the U.S., Canada and the globe.

Paul OByrne, M.B., dean and vice president of McMasters Faculty of Health Sciences, welcomed the collaboration.

There is so much opportunity for synergy in these developments at our two universities, both in creating creative innovation for biomedical entrepreneurship as well as fast forwarding our global health initiatives, OByrne said.

John Kelton, a longtime friend of the Heersinks and distinguished university professor of medicine at McMaster, likened the cooperation between McMaster and the UAB to a free trade zone that could exchange ideas and expertise in biomedical innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as global health issues and research best practices.

Kelton says McMaster and UAB are similarly sized schools, both renowned for their prowess in health sciences education and research. The biggest employer in both cities is the hospital-university sector.

By working together, Kelton says, entrepreneurs from each university can create content that complements the other, combining each institutions strengths to create the most effective biomedical products.

Once the pandemic eases, Kelton envisions student exchange programs, noting the opportunity for enriched learning.

The American students who study in Ontario, along with their counterparts from Canada who come to Birmingham, will learn about the differences between the Canadian and U.S. health care systems. He says, while Canadas is publicly funded and cheaper to maintain, it often struggles with patient capacity limitations, and despite the American health care systems huge national price tag, its privately funded model is nimbler and more welcoming of innovative new ideas. Recent examples include the development of biosensors and trackers, 3D-printed medical devices, and next-generation genetic sequencing.

Mary Heersink says the McMaster-UAB partnership not only will launch a new generation of biomedical innovators, but also may radically transform Hamiltons economic fortunes, just as the UAB has already done in Birmingham.

There is so much overlap and similarity between the two stories of both cities and their respective universities, she said.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has stressed that the suspension of Burkina Faso will remain in force until constitutional order is restored in the country.

ECOWAS last month suspended Burkina Faso after a coup detat on January 24, 2022.

At an Extraordinary Summit in Accra, Ghana on 3rd February 2022, under the chairmanship of H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State took note of the deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation in Burkina Faso while agreeing that there is the urgent need for a return to constitutional order to deal effectively with these issues.

In a press release issued by ECOWAS after the summit today, it condemns the coup dEtat and expresses concern over the continuous detention of President Roch Marc Christian KABORE.

While demanding the release of the detained president, the authority cautions that there would be sanctions.

ECOWAS at the summit resolved not only to uphold the suspension of Burkina Faso from all ECOWAS Institutions until the restoration of constitutional order but also called on the military authorities to establish the transition institutions, adopt a transition calendar and facilitate the return to constitutional order within the shortest time.

ECOWAS additionally Instructs the Commission to ensure continuous engagement with the new authorities through the establishment of a monitoring mechanism, including African Union and United Nations, with a view to accompanying the Transition process.

Meanwhile, the Authority affirms its commitment to stand firm for the protection of democracy and freedom in the region and reiterates its resolute stance to upholding the principle of zero tolerance for ascension to power through unconstitutional means, as enshrined in the 2001 ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good governance.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and Gov. Larry Hogan held a private meeting Thursday to discuss the pressing issue of crime, as lawmakers promoted competing plans for combating violence.

The Democratic mayor and Republican governor  whose last planned meeting on crime was nixed when Hogan contracted COVID-19  met behind closed doors at the State House in Annapolis.

Violence has continued at a relentless pace in the states largest city, despite various efforts to curb crime and promote safety. In the month of January, 36 people were killed in homicides in Baltimore, the deadliest January in at least half a century. That came on the heels of 337 people being killed in Baltimore in 2021 continuing a period of elevated violence dating to 2015.

It was a great meeting, very productive, Scott told reporters after emerging from the governors suite in the State House. We talked about ways we can strengthen the already-strong partnerships with us.

Hogan did not speak to reporters after the meeting, though he later issued a statement thanking the mayor for coming to Annapolis.

We had a very productive discussion on a number of fronts. I look forward to working with him to address our shared priorities, Hogan posted on Twitter, without elaborating.

He also posted a video clip to social media from his State of the State speech from the night before, in which he decried recent murders in Baltimore and pushed for his own crime-fighting proposals.

There can be no more excuses, Hogan wrote on Twitter.

Hogan has proposed a bill stiffening penalties for certain violent crimes as well as one that would require public reports on the sentences handed down by judges. He also wants to plow more money into policing.

Versions of the governors Repeat Violent Offenders Act have passed the state Senate in past years, but never got any traction in the House of Delegates. The bill requiring a report on sentencing also has failed in the past, but Democratic lawmakers have signaled an interest in the issue this year.

Story continues

Scott, meanwhile, used the meeting to present Hogan with several proposals to enhance the visibility and scope of the citys public safety operations, according to the mayors team. He was joined by Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison.

One request is for more assistance from state-run police agencies to patrol public places in the city, including Lexington Market and Mondawmin Mall.

Scott also asked for more enforcement of people who violate the terms of their parole and probation, a task thats overseen by a state agency. In the same vein, the mayor proposed a cooperative agreement between city police and state agencies to prioritize supervision of violent offenders who are at risk of becoming repeat offenders.

Also among the requests made by the mayor was more targeted funding for the city police departments Warrant Apprehension Task Force. Scott proposed overtime funding for city police and partnering agencies to prioritize clearing warrants for known violent offenders.

Thursdays meeting was reminiscent of a get-together between the two men last May, when both emerged saying theyd discussed issues of crime and violence. At that time, the mayor said that generally that meeting was productive and the governor said he was impressed with the mayors crime plan. Eventually, though, Hogan returned to regularly criticizing city officials for not doing enough to reduce crime through arrests and prosecutions.

Earlier on Thursday, groups of Democratic and Republican lawmakers offered competing plans for how they hope to curb violent crime.

The level of violence that we have witnessed across the entire state has simply been unprecedented, said Senate President Bill Ferguson, a Baltimore Democrat. Sadly, its not just in targeted areas, it is across the board, across the state. And it cant continue.

Ferguson and Democratic senators unveiled their community safety plan during a Thursday morning news conference in Annapolis.

The package of proposals includes banning so-called ghost guns that lack serial numbers, creating a gun analytics center, improving warrant apprehension programs, increasing money for violence prevention programs and requiring more information about judges sentences to be made public.

The Democrats also want to focus on the states Division of Parole and Probation to offer more monitoring and services for people under supervision and filling the estimated 140 vacancies in the division.

Republican senators countered with their own news conference minutes later, criticizing the Democratic plans as doing little to address the imminent public safety threats that residents face.

The Democratic plans are nibbling round the edges of the causes of violent crime and ignoring the immediate problems, said Sen. Bryan Simonaire of Anne Arundel County, the Republican minority leader.

Simonaire pointed to the Democrats focus on parole and probation as an example: Our solution is to not let those violent criminals out in the first place.

Simonaire and Republican leaders said they support the governors proposals, saying theyre sharply focused only on the most violent offenders.

Republicans also have offered other proposals, including making theft of a gun a felony crime. But they face an uphill battle in getting their bills passed, as theyre outnumbered by Democrats by a 2-to-1 margin.

Baltimore Sun reporter Bryn Stole contributed to this article.
Captain Smart has thanked the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Media General, Beatrice Agyemang and the entire management for the support they showed him when he was arrested and detained.

He said this is the first time a CEO he has worked for has demonstrated such support for him in such situations.

After thanking Ghanaians for the love shown for him, he said I also want to say thank you to the Group CEO. I have worked in other media houses and honestly, I have not come across a CEO and management members who would follow their worker in times like this. I am so grateful to the management of Media General.

The Onua TV/FM morning show host was released on bail on Thursday, February 3 after he met all the bail conditions at the Accra Circuit Court 8 to secure his release from police custody.

Captain and another staff of Onua Tv, Eric Daniels Dadzie Copperfield (DJ GH Boy) were detained at the National Security office. This followed a hearing at the Circuit Court in Accra today Wednesday, February 2, 2022.

The court granted them bail after they had pleaded not guilty to two respective counts of charges of extortion and abetment to extortion.

After the court granted them bail around 10:45am the investigator who handled the matter took the four sureties to verify their places of abode.

The two gentlemen were first taken to the National Security office and they stayed there for three hours in the name of briefing the coordinator of what had transpired at the Court.

After three hours at the National Security, one officer (Eric Osei) went with the four sureties to verify their places of abode. This process delayed until the court closed, hence they were not able to process all the conditions for bail.

The court closed at 4 pm by which time the officers who had gone for verification had not returned and so the officers took the two suspects to National Security and then to the Ministries Police Station where they were kept for an hour.

The National Security officers came for the accused persons with the explanation that they had order from above to bring them back to the office of National Security.

---3news.com


Download image WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  Purdue University announced Thursday (Feb. 3) that due to continuing weather concerns, all in-person class meetings on the West Lafayette campus should continue to be held online if possible or canceled on Friday (Feb. 4) and that all nonessential personnel should remain working remotely if possible. Non-essential employees should not report to campus. Area road conditions vary by county, and travel may be unsafe for faculty, staff, and off-campus students, prompting the decision. Note that planned virtual meetings of online/hybrid courses may continue as scheduled. Purdue administrators and public safety officials are working with city and county personnel to actively monitor the winter storm, and they ask everyone to remain aware of changing conditions. We will return to normal campus operating status for Monday (Feb. 7). Should that status change, information will be communicated via email, social media and area media as soon as possible. Instructors of impacted courses should communicate plans and expectations (e.g due dates, remote meeting methods, exams/quizzes) directly to students. Students should check their email and Brightspace frequently for updates from their instructors. Predesignated essential personnel should operate under their department procedures. Nonessential personnel should work remotely if possible and not report to campus for any shifts before noon Saturday (Feb. 5). The campus adverse weather procedures are available online (pdf). The covid testing center at the CoRec will be closed Friday (Feb. 4) and Saturday (Feb. 5). Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact the Protect Purdue Health Center. Case managers will still be available. University officials continue to monitor area road conditions - and encourage employees to do the same - to be aware of any local travel restrictions that might remain in place. Those planning to travel on area roads should monitor their county travel status. To check on the status of CityBus operations, you can download the app or search for the MyCityBus app in the Google Play or Apple App Store, or check the CityBus website. Purdue officials also are working in conjunction with local and state emergency responders to provide assistance locally. Any additional updates will be available on the Purdue campus emergency page.


WASHINGTON (AP)  Rep. Joseph H. Rainey, born into slavery in 1832, was honored Thursday for being the first Black member of the House by formally having a room in the Capitol named after him. Top lawmakers and a descendant turned the ceremony into something more than that.

No. 3 House Democratic leader James Clyburn, Rainey's great-granddaughter Lorna Rainey and others used the event to say the battle for racial justice and voting rights that Joseph Rainey championed must continue.

The brief event featured speeches delivered beside a portrait of Rainey, sitting with legs crossed in the Capitol and sporting prominent mutton-chop sideburns and a dark suit. It came during Black History Month and as Republican-run states have enacted voting restrictions that in some cases are expected to affect minority voters.

I have children. I have grandchildren," said Clyburn, who like Rainey did represents a district in South Carolina. I want them to feel as proud of this country as I am."

Clyburn noted that eight African Americans were elected to the House from his home state during the 19th Century but said, The problem is there's 95 years between No. 8 and No. 9," who is Clyburn himself, first elected in 1992. Anything that's happened before can happen again."

If Joseph Rainey could accomplish so much during his time, then certainly you can be the ones to get the peoples work done," his great-granddaughter told the small audience, which included lawmakers. As we honor this man, please let us remember what he stood for, what he put his life in danger for and why his legacy endures today."

The modest room now bearing Rainey's name is on the first floor of the Capitol and was used by the House Committee on Indian Affairs, on which he served. A plaque in his honor was placed outside the room.

It's currently used by aides to House Minority Whip Steve Scalise, R-La., who said of Rainey, He didnt just come up here to hold the title. He came up here to make a difference, and make a difference he did."

Story continues

Never formally educated, Rainey was forced to help build Confederate fortifications around Charleston, South Carolina, and to work aboard a blockage-running ship.

He escaped to the British island colony of Bermuda and returned to South Carolina in 1866, where he helped found the state's Republican Party. He was elected to Congress and sworn into office in December 1870, replacing a lawmaker who had resigned.

Reelected four times and serving during Reconstruction, Rainey's first major speech came in April 1871 in support of the Ku Klux Klan Act, which expanded federal law enforcement powers in the South. He served with 13 other African-American lawmakers during Reconstruction, all of them Republicans.

The Constitution, Rainey said, was written to protect the humblest citizen, without regard to rank, creed, or color. President Ulysses Grant signed the legislation into law days later.

Rainey received death threats from the Klan in 1871, including a letter written in red ink to him and other Black officials that he provided to a newspaper that said, "Your doom is sealed in blood. He was an advocate for rights for working people, immigrants, former slaves and supported self-government for Native American tribes.

In 1874, Rainey became the first Black to preside over the House when he oversaw a debate on a spending bill for Native American reservations. The Springfield Republican, a Massachusetts newspaper, contrasted Rainey's appearance with the days when men of Mr. Raineys race were sold under the hammer within bowshot of the Capitol.

Rainey died of natural causes in 1887, a few months after contracting malaria. He was 55.

According to the Senate website, Hiram Revels became the first Black senator when he was sworn into office in February 1870, months before Rainey's arrival.

GOP Rep. Tom Rice, whose South Carolina district includes the town of Georgetown where Rainey was from, said his grandparents lived just blocks from Rainey's house. Can you imagine the pressure that he felt and the obstacles that he had to overcome, Rice said.

In a moment of bipartisan comradery rare these days, Rice said he'd proposed a bill naming a local post office after Rainey that wouldn't have succeeded without Clyburn's support.

Standing behind Rice, Clyburn deadpanned, That's correct.
Del. A.C. Cordoza, R-Hampton, the only Black Republican in the legislature, said Thursday he was denied membership to the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus and lambasted the groups agenda as leftist.

In an emotive speech on the House floor, Cordoza said he had requested membership to the caucus, but had made it clear he did not support the caucus agenda, including its support for unions, insurance coverage for abortions and gun control legislation.

I asked myself what any of those things mentioned have to do with being Black? The answer is, it has nothing to do with being Black, Cordoza said.

Its about being leftists. And that means that the caucus is not about being Black. Its about being leftists.

Leaders with the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus confirmed that the caucus voted on Cordozas membership Tuesday night, rejecting his bid to join. But, they also cast doubt on the sincerity of his request to join, and said that in meetings, Cordoza made clear he widely rejected the caucus agenda.

The chairman of the Black caucus, Del. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico, said he had several conversations with Cordoza before the memberships vote.

I met with him privately to ask him what he agreed with us on. I also discussed with him that if he were a member of the Black caucus, that he could help make amendments to our agenda, Bagby said in an interview. But he said that he did not agree with anything on our agenda.

Bagby said that some members of the caucus still supported Cordozas bid, but those in opposition won. Bagby declined to say what the vote was, and who supported Cordozas membership.

Bagby he said he was skeptical of Cordozas intentions. Bagby said it was disturbing that he was contacted by Fox News shortly after delivering the news of the vote.

The Tuesday night vote came shortly after a meeting between Gov. Glenn Youngkin, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and the Black caucus. Bagby said he invited Youngkin to join them for a conversation about the caucus agenda and common goals.

Bagby said there was little in the way of political agreement or compromise between the caucus and the governor, but added he remains hopeful.

He said he came to listen, and he wasnt prepared to discuss our agenda, Bagby said of Youngkin. We wanted to talk about the issues, not just, are you Black and have a pulse?

I think he just wanted to meet and greet.

Cordoza in January became the first Black Republican elected to the chamber since 2004, after defeating Del. Martha Mugler, D-Hampton in a contest that went to a recount.

Cordozas lack of membership is not unprecedented. Del. Paul C. Harris, R-Albemarle, an African American who served in the House from 1998 to 2002, also was not a part of the caucus.

On the House floor, Cordoza said that he worked to help elect Barack Obama president in the lead up to the 2008 election. He said that around that time, a professor questioned him on his political views, leading him to realize his conservative values aligned with the Republican Party.

Im a legislator. Im Black, and I want to help the Black community, he said. Maybe I need to start my own caucus  the Virginia Non-Leftist Black Caucus.

Right now, itll be a caucus of one but thats OK. As [Henry David Thoreau] said, Any man more right than his neighbors constitutes a majority of one already.
Tucson International Airport didnt recover to its pre-pandemic passenger traffic levels in 2021, but some airlines gave the airport a vote of confidence by restoring many routes and adding seat capacity.

And after getting an infusion of federal airport COVID-19 relief funding, TIA was awarded federal infrastructure grants that are expected to speed up construction on the airports $350 million airfield safety improvement project.

By the end of 2021, TIA had recovered 85% of its passenger volume compared with pre-COVID 2019, the Tucson Airport Authority said in its recently released annual review.

TIA served about 2.7 million passengers, including departures and arrivals, in 2021, up nearly 59% from 2020 but down 29% from nearly 3.8 million passengers in 2019.

In 2020, after the pandemic hit, it was a little bit sketchy there for those first few months, then its been kind of a slow climb back to where we are today, said Danette Bewley, president and CEO of the Tucson Airport Authority.

Airport officials were hoping to get about 90% of passenger traffic at TIA back this year before the omicron variant of COVID-19 caused a surge in cases and crimped air travel, Bewley said.

That threw a big monkey wrench into the works, and weve had some setbacks already in this fiscal year due to omicron, she said, citing moves by airlines to change or cancel flights largely due to staffing challenges.

Its hard to predict where were going to go, whether well reach that 90% expectation, Bewley said. Were thrilled with the service we do have, and when we compare it to some of our peer airports, were doing pretty well, and better than some. Our market is still strong, and people want to come to Tucson so that helps.

But TIAs recovery still depends on the pace of the airline industrys rebound from the omicron surge and solving critical labor shortages, Bewley said, adding: The airlines are hiring like crazy, but its just a really tough time.

Taking steps forward, back

As of the end of 2021, nine airlines offered service to 19 nonstop destinations from TIA, after nonstop flights had dropped to 15 in 2020.

The airport added a new nonstop flight on Alaska Airlines to Everett, Washington, last year, which seems to be doing well, Bewley said.

Low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines launched a nonstop from Tucson to Hollywood Burbank Airport in December 2021 but dropped the flight in mid-January after a surge in COVID-19 cases from the omicron variant curtailed bookings.

Tucson also lost several routes when low-cost carrier Allegiant Air suspended its flights to Indianapolis; Provo, Utah; and Bellingham, Washington. Frontier Airlines dropped a nonstop to Denver last year but added a flight to Las Vegas.

But several major airlines restored service at TIA that was suspended during the height of the pandemic in 2020, including American and Southwest, which both reinstated flights to Los Angeles and Chicago.

TIA also gained additional service to Denver on American and Southwest, and Houston was added as a nonstop by United and Southwest.

A high level of demand during the latter half of 2021 should help encourage airlines to consider adding new routes at TIA, Bewley said.

Since April 2021, more than 80% of available seats at TIA were filled in every month except August, outpacing the U.S. recovery, the Airport Authority said.

When youre selling the airlines air service, you want to show them you have a strong market, Bewley said.

Thanks to a strong air-travel recovery in the second half of the 2021 fiscal year ended Sept. 30, annual operating revenues came in about 5% above budget at $36.3 million, and expenses were 2.4% below budget, according to preliminary, unaudited financial results.

Bewley said airport officials were careful to adopt a conservative budget last year and used millions of dollars in federal COVID-19 relief funding mainly to pay staffing expenses as its revenues fell.

Marketing TIA

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the Airport Authority moved ahead with a plan to attract new businesses to TIA and surrounding land owned by the airport in partnership with Sun Corridor Inc. to help drive local economic development.

In October, the authority launched its Commercial and Industrial Business Implementation Plan to help market land at TIA and at Ryan Airfield to prospective tenants.

The land available at TIA will be marketed as the Sonoran Commerce Center and is divided into four different areas based on the best use of the land. That plan has been shared with regional partners, national and international business-site selectors and is available on the Airport Authority website at tucne.ws/1jjze.

The authority also launched a new branding campaign, Nonstop for Tucson, to help restore confidence in TIA and to raise overall community awareness of the airport and its contribution to the Southern Arizona region.

Beginning in February 2021, the campaign advertised in local publications, digital platforms, social media, cable television, billboards, and was included in numerous community partnerships.

Project propelled

After years of study and design, the Airport Authority launched construction on the biggest construction project in TIAs history last year when initial utilities work was completed and work on taxiways began in October, ahead of construction of a new full-length parallel runway.

The End-Around Taxiway project, which includes new taxiways to limit confusion that can cause hazardous runway incursions, is expected to be completed by January 2023.

The shorter, parallel runway to the main runway at TIA will be demolished and replaced with a new, full-length parallel runway to handle commercial airliners.

The new runway is expected to be finished by 2024, or 2025 depending on the pace of funding, said Mike Smejkal, vice president of planning and engineering for the Tucson Airport Authority.

After that, the current main runway will be closed for construction and commercial traffic shifted to the new runway so work can proceed on new taxiways between runways, which will take another year or so, Smejkal said.

Overall, he said, the airfield project has had only minor supply-chain issues because of COVID-19 but has faced some contractor labor shortages and rapidly rising costs.

But new federal funding will help cover higher costs and potentially speed up completion of the project, Smejkal said.

The airfield project is being funded mainly with grants from the Federal Aviation Administrations Airport Improvement Program, which is funded by passenger surcharges, along with airport revenue and state grants.

Beyond that, TIA is expected to receive about $31 million in increments of just over $6 million annually over five years from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which was signed into law last November.

The legislation authorized about $550 billion in new spending to upgrade infrastructure including broadband connectivity, roads and bridges and transportation including $25 billion to improve airports.

That $31 million, we know were going to get it and its certainly above above what we have planned for, Smejkal said. We are also trying to unwind some other opportunities within that bill to get some competitive grants, to help accelerate it as well.
Biere De Mac Brew Works is located at 14277 Mackinaw Highway in Mackinaw City.

MACKINAW CITY  Mackinaw City's Biere de Mac Brew Works will play host to about 80 snowmobile riders, an ex-Detroit Lion and more on Friday all while raising funds for the Michigan Special Olympics.

The snowmobilers are part of the Wertz Warrior Endurance Snowmobile ride that kicked off on Sunday, Jan. 30 in Chesterfield Township. The ride takes about a week with pit stops throughout Michigan ultimately ending the run on Friday in Mackinaw City.

"One of our longtime and good customers  the Thirsty Sturgeon  is right on the snowmobile trail and this is a big deal for him," said Biere de Mac Brew Works owner Danny Ranville.

"We were talking about the event and how these riders pretty much singlehandedly raise the majority of funding for the state's Special Olympics and we knew we wanted to be a part of it," he said.

Biere de Mac Brew Works will welcome in riders to the brewery at about 3 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 4 with its beer garden ready with blazing fire ready to warm them up and celebrate the end of the ride.

Those wanting to visit with the Wertz Warrior riders are welcome to do so as well as visit with and get autographs from ex-Detroit Lion Luther Bradley, who is himself a rider in the Wertz Warrior Endurance Ride.

The Wertz Warriors were founded in 1982 and members have been riding snowmobiles and raising funds across the State of Michigan ever since with over 18,000 miles traveled and over $8.8 million raised all supporting the State Winter Games of Special Olympics Michigan.

"We've been raising money too and, if people want to donate, they can put their name on a cutout snowmobile and put it on the wall here at the brewery," said Ranville.

"All the bars and places these guys are stopping at throughout the ride are doing the same. We want to cover our walls and really show our support. Come out, support a good cause and enjoy a pint," he said.

More information about the Michigan Special Olympics and Biere de Mac Brew Works can be found on their respective websites at www.somi.org and www.bieredemac.com. More information about Wertz Warriors and the ride can be found on the organization's Wertz Warriors Facebook page.

Contact reporter Sean Miller at smiller@petoskeynews.com. Follow him on Twitter, @seanmillerpnr, and Instagram, @sean_everest.

This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Biere de Mac to host Wertz Warriors, raise money for Special Olympics
Trucks sit parked on Wellington Street near the Parliament Buildings as truckers and their supporters take part in a convoy to protest COVID-19 vaccine mandates for cross-border truck drivers in Ottawa, Canada, on Jan. 29, 2022. (Patrick Doyle/Reuters)

GoFundMe Makes Controversial Move as Fundraising Campaign for Truckers Reaches Nearly US$8 Million

A fundraising campaign for truckers in the Freedom Convoy 2022 has been Frozen by GoFundMe after it raised over CA$10 million (US$7.96 million.)

This fundraiser is currently paused and under review to ensure it complies with our terms of service and applicable laws and regulations, reads a message placed at the top of the fundraising page.

The campaign was launched by two people who identified themselves as Tamara Lich and B.J. Dichter.

The review by GoFundMe appears to be focused on several areas: the identity of the fundraisers, use of the raised funds, and if the fundraising reflects or promotes behavior in support of violence.

GoFundMe said the fundraising campaign didnt violate their Terms of Service in the perspective of promoting violence at the time of creation.

However, theyre trying to ensure the funds will be used as intended.

As the activity surrounding the protest evolves, we have been monitoring the fundraiser to ensure the funds are going to the intended recipients and that the fundraiser remains within our Terms of Service, GoFundMe said in a statement.

The fundraising platform is also collecting information from the organizer regarding the use of the funds.

Protesters demonstrating against COVID-19 mandates gather as a truck convoy blocks the highway at the U.S. border crossing in Coutts, Alta., on Feb. 2, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh)

The organizers of the Freedom Convoy 2022 confirmed the fundraising campaign is part of their movement during a Thursday press conference.

Tamara Lich, one of the organizers of Freedom Convoy 2022, said that they have sent all information requested by GoFundMe.

This morning our lawyer sent GoFundMe all the details that they have asked for. I am confident that GoFundMe now has all the information needed to immediately lift the suspension they put on our campaign, she said.

I am hoping to hear from GoFundMe soon so that we can get the money to the truckers and keep our protest for freedom moving forward, she added.

The Epoch Times could not verify that Lich is the same person who launched the GoFundMe campaign.

GoFundMe confirmed Tuesday that the fundraising campaign created for truckers protesting against the various COVID-19 mandates and restrictions across Canada is the countrys second-largest ever on its platform, with donations reaching over CA$10 million.

After the Public Health Agency of Canadas announcement that foreign truck drivers can only enter Canada if fully vaccinated starting Jan. 15, and the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announcing similar requirements starting Jan. 22 for non-U.S. national truckers crossing into the United States, thousands of truckers decided to protest and meet in Ottawa in an attempt to stop the mandates.

Truckers in west Canada started mobilizing on Jan 23.

As the record-breaking convoy passed through different cities, they were greeted with throngs of people cheering and holding Canadian flags, with some shooting off fireworks.

U.S. truckers started joining the protest soon after the creators of Freedom Fighter Nation, attorney Leigh Dundas and her personal assistant Maureen Steele, heard the news and started organizing in the United States.
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Jessica Byrd needed more space. Her interior design company, By Design Interiors, had outgrown its showroom nearly as soon as it had moved in.
DES MOINES, Iowa, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In a press release Friday, Genentech announced approval of Vabysmo (faricimab-svoa), a new advancement in the treatment approach for Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME). Vabysmo is the only injectable eye medicine approved simultaneously in the U.S. for wet AMD and DME, with flexible dosing regimens based on patient need.

Vabysmo represents a new shift in treatment for both diseases as it is the first medication to address both the VEGF and ANG-2 pathways. Clinical trials leading to FDA approval showed that eyes treated with Vabysmo required less frequent injections to maintain vision compared to the medications that have been available, based on evaluation of the patient's anatomy and vision outcomes. Current standard of care for wet AMD and DME typically requires eye injections every one to two months, so this medication can significantly reduce that treatment burden.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that affects the macula, the part of the eye that provides sharp, central vision needed for activities like reading, and is a leading cause of blindness for people aged 60 and over in the United States. Wet, or neovascular, AMD is an advanced form of the disease that can cause rapid and severe vision loss. Approximately 11 million people in the United States have some form of AMD, and of those, about 1.1 million have wet AMD1. With Vabysmo, people with wet AMD initially receive four monthly treatments. Based on anatomical and vision outcomes, they may receive subsequent treatments every two, three or four months depending on the response to treatment.

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is the leading cause of permanent vision loss among working aged Americans. DME can be managed with injection treatments to improve vision and prevent permanent vision loss. People with diabetes should get a dilated eye exam every year to check for vision complications, such as DME. People with DME who are candidates for use of Vabysmo, are initially given four monthly treatments. Subsequently their treatment may be extended or reduced based on anatomical and vision outcomes, with a range of one to four months between doses. A second approved treatment regimen for DME involves six monthly loading doses, followed by treatment every two months.

Iowa-based Wolfe Eye Clinic continues to be at the center of state-of-the-art research surrounding treatments for sight threatening diseases such as AMD and DME. Physicians at Wolfe Eye Clinic participated in the Phase II & III studies Stairway, Boulevard, Lucerne, Yosemite, Rhone-X and Avonelle-X and enrolled several patients to evaluate the safety of the Vabysmo regimen. The clinic is Iowa's only trial site for the Vabysmo trials which contributed to this exciting FDA approval.

"Continuing to find innovation in the new technology that can help our patients who suffer with retinal disease is a passion of the retina physicians at Wolfe Eye Clinic. We are most grateful for the generous patients who participated in the various clinical trials that ultimately lead to Vabysmo approval. Without these dedicated patients' medical advancements would not be possible," said Jared Nielsen, MD, MBA, FASRS, Retina Specialist and Director of Retinal Clinical Trials at Wolfe Eye Clinic.

"It's exciting to see approval for Vabysmo as yet another step in reducing treatment burden for our patients. This is the second big approval for our AMD patients in recent months. Our commitment to clinical trials and advancements for our patients who suffer from retina disease has never been stronger."

Wolfe Eye Clinic strives to serve every corner of Iowa with specialized care and breakthrough research. Data from various studies was presented and submitted to health experts across the globe. Genentech notes that Vabysmo will be available in the United States in the coming months. With over 40 locations in Iowa including main offices, family vision centers and outreach offices, research and clinical trials is another way Wolfe Eye Clinic is making state-of-the-art eye care accessible for all Iowans.

In medical practice since 1919, Wolfe Eye Clinic is a recognized regional diagnostic and surgical center offering a broad range of ophthalmology care services. Wolfe Eye Clinic has over 50 doctors providing patient care in over 40 communities throughout Iowa including their main offices in Ames, Carroll, Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Fort Dodge, Iowa City, Marshalltown, Ottumwa, Pleasant Hill, Spencer, Waterloo and West Des Moines.

Wolfe Eye Clinic surgeons have specialized fellowship training in the areas of cataract and refractive surgery, cornea and external disease, glaucoma, pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus, cosmetic and medical oculofacial plastics, and medical and surgical retina.

For more information, contact:

Kassandra Trenary, (641) 754-6200

[email protected]

SOURCE Wolfe Eye Clinic
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It was a warm summer in Maine but felt like a cold winter in the confines of the hospital building. I was seated next to a physician who was quietly working on a big screen monitor. It was a slow workday as I pondered tips and tricks to make the physician workflow efficient while training providers on implementing electronic health records. I stared at the computer screen and the physician was hard at work. She was ordering a controlled substance for a patient. She reviewed the prescription drug monitoring program database (PDMP) as required by law. The patient had high overdose risk scores.

We both paused. Was the patient drug shopping? The physician overrode the warning and prescribed the medication. She exclaimed, These are false flags; the patient has a complex medical history and needs this medication. That was a physician that thought outside algorithms, paid attention, and knew her patient. I started to feel discomfort with the processes for prescribing opiates.

Was the PDMP using a flawed algorithm in labeling patients?

My mind raced back to when I was under anesthesia for a tooth extraction. I had awakened unexpectedly in the middle of the procedure and, in my dreamlike state, needed to be restrained to undergo more sedation.

My wisdom teeth were out, and the team was ecstatic to find that there wasnt any permanent nerve damage as it was a complicated extraction. I was given prescribed pain meds, but it wasnt enough to manage my pain. My provider wrote me another script the following day. I went to the local drug store to fill the script, and after 20 minutes, the pharmacist approached me. He explained that he couldnt fill the medication. I was bewildered, and he could see it in my eyes.

I didnt sleep the night before because I was severely in pain; this medication would give me the relief that I desperately needed. I couldnt grasp what was going on. I didnt recall being prescribed opiates in the past. Was I labeled as a drug seeker? I shrugged off the thought and proceeded to explain to the pharmacist, who was standing at a distance but directly in front of me; my face was swollen, and I had gauze in my mouth, which was hard to communicate. Still, I managed to explain to him why I had been prescribed another medication to manage my pain. He wasnt convinced and went back behind the counter. As I looked around, I could see shoppers staring at me. I urged the pharmacist to call the doctors office to confirm my story. After another 20 minutes, I received my script.

Was the pharmacist basing his analysis on a flawed algorithm?

The United States has an opioid prescribing algorithm statewide PDMP that gathers data on patterns on drug-seeking to reduce the opioid overdose crisis. In the Wired article The Pain Was Unbearable. So Why Did Doctors Turn Her Away? Author Maia Szalvitz explained, There are state-level prescription drug databases  electronic registries that track scripts for certain controlled substances in real-time; it gives authorities a set of eyes onto the pharmaceutical market. The monitoring process follows the number of pharmacies a patient has visited, combinations of prescriptions received, and health care organizations visited.

But the system overrides physician decisions and experience. It also creates a big brother system that is more akin to a scene from the book 1984 than what we have come to expect from interactions between ourselves and our medical providers. What generates a flag is unknown, and the results can create a confusing playing field for those in genuine need of medication. According to the article, 20% of patients that were flagged by the algorithm as drug seekers are cancer patients with complex medical treatment.

Do we really need to put cancer patients on the same list as Walter White from Breaking Bad?

The future of medicine will be more and more reliant on artificial intelligence based on algorithms. The advancement of such technologies makes medicine more efficient but can also lead to false conclusions if doctors are too dependent upon technology. After all, even though its a computer algorithm, it was devised by a human. Like a social media platform, artificial intelligence using an extensive data system constantly grows and changes depending on the input. This means that physicians need to be aware, not rely solely on system conclusions and look for zebras.

Note: The anecdote in the first two paragraphs is a fictionalization of my real-world experiences. Its not based on a specific case, and I am respectful of patients stories and HIPAA regulations. I have never worked or been to Maine, although it would be nice to visit.

Afua Aning is a physician informaticist.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds updates the state's response to the CCP virus outbreak during a news conference at the State Emergency Operations Center, in Johnston, Iowa, on April 23, 2020. (Charlie Neibergall/AP Photo)

Iowa Governor Announces End to COVID-19 Emergency Declaration

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds on Thursday said she will end her states COVID-19 emergency declaration and will shut down vaccination and case count websites.

We cannot continue to suspend duly enacted laws and treat COVID-19 as a public health emergency indefinitely, Reynolds, a Republican, said in a statement. After two years, its no longer feasible or necessary. The flu and other infectious illnesses are part of our everyday lives, and coronavirus can be managed similarly.

The governor signed the final extension of Iowas public emergency and will allow it to end on the night of Feb. 15, according to her proclamation (pdf). It was first signed in March 2020 during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the emergency declaration ends, two websitescoronavirus.iowa.gov and vaccinate.iowa.govwill also be decommissioned on Feb. 16. Information that was stored on those websites, however, will be accessible online and via other state and federal agencies, her office said.

While our COVID-19 reporting will look different, Iowans should rest assured that the state health department will continue to review and analyze COVID-19 and other public health data daily, just as we always have, Iowa Health Director Kelly Garcia said in a statement.

Garcia told local media that Iowa residents who are seeking data on COVID-19 in their states will be referred to federal websites.

About half of all U.S. states have already discontinued their public health emergency proclamations, Reynolds office said. Several more state proclamations are scheduled to expire in February if theyre not renewed.

More than half of the states have ratcheted this down, she told reporters of COVID-19 reporting. The governor for months has said that the general public will have to live with COVID-19 as a regular part of life.

In May 2021, Reynolds told reporters: Theres no reason for us to continue to fear COVID-19 any longer  We know how to manage it.

According to her office, the Test Iowa at Home program will continue but may also change in the future.

As testing supply increases and more options for self-testing becoming available, the state will reassess the need for the program, the release stated.

The Iowa Democratic Party on Thursday criticized Reynolds decision to end the emergency.

Just because Kim Reynolds wants the pandemic to be over, doesnt mean its over for Iowans, state Democrats said in a statement. Our doctors, nurses, and caregivers are already stretched thin, and this irresponsible decision will make a bad situation much worse.

COVID-19 is the illness caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.
All this data is powered by human beings just like us, as Google Maps has a userbase thats large enough to contribute to a very complex yet fairly efficient review platform.The reviews posted by users are therefore supposed to be informative, relevant, and accurate, though it goes without saying that not all of them always follow the guidelines.And today, Google explains how it manages to block inappropriate content to make Google Maps a better service.First and foremost, Google Maps uses machine learning to moderate content, so the moment you post a new review, a computer is in charge of determining if it should be allowed or not. There are several factors that are looked into, including whether it contains offensive or off-topic information, the history of the poster, and the recent reviews posted for that specific place.Based on this information, the machine learning system can make an informed decision and act accordingly. But at the same time, Google Maps also uses a team of employees whose purpose is specifically to analyze the reviews that are posted on the service and act as a second protective layer to make sure everything is relevant and accurate.The flagged content is therefore inspected by human operators who can decide what to do next. In some cases, the taken actions include not only removing the review completely but also suspending the user account or even pursuing litigation.Google says there are over 1 billion people using Google Maps every month, so the company has promised to continue to polish this system to make sure only the most relevant information ends up becoming available to others.
A Kalispell man was sentenced Thursday to 18 years in federal prison for sexually abusing three young girls last year.

Edward Timothy Cockerham, 43, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a child in October. His 18-year custodial term will be followed by 15 years of supervised release.

U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen presided at Thursday's sentencing.

Last June, a 9-year-old girl reported to Flathead County sheriffs deputies that she had been molested by a family friend. The friend, Cockerham, had taken her on an inflatable kayak on Ashley Lake and touched and photographed her genitals, federal court documents said.

The same day as the girls report, deputies went to Cockerhams house and seized his cellphone. They were granted a search warrant authorizing the search of his mobile device for photos and/or videos of child pornography. Evidence had been deleted, and officials were granted a second warrant.

The phone was then turned over to the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation for a more extensive search, which revealed sexually explicit images of the 9-year-old along with two other young girls who were both 5, according to court documents. It was later determined that Cockerham also took one of the 5-year-olds to the lake.

A few days after the initial report, Cockerham was arrested at a Town Pump store off Highway 2 East in Kalispell. When interviewed by officials, he admitted to taking the photos of the three children. He also admitted to inappropriately touching the 9-year-old girl, documents said. Another search warrant was executed on Cockerhams residence, where it became apparent to officials some of the sexually explicit photos were taken.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee Peterson prosecuted the case. Cockerham was represented by Federal Defender Andrew Nelson.

Cockerham was initially indicted on three counts of sexual exploitation of a child, two of which were dismissed as part of the plea agreement. He appeared via Zoom from the custody of the U.S. Marshal's Office and waived his right to address the court at his sentencing. Family of the survivors were present and also declined to speak.

As part of the imposed sentence, Cockerham is ordered to have no contact with the survivors and is not allowed to possess a phone or any electronic device with photo-taking capabilities.
Paula Guerrero was indicted Wednesday in Buenos Aires, Argentina, for the murder of her two-year-old son Milo Dert

A 29-year-old mother was formally charged with the vengeful murder of her two-year-old son by Argentine judge.

Paula Guerrero was indicted for the January 15 killing Milo Derto and charged with doubly aggravated homicide by a Buenos Aires court on Wednesday and ordered held without bail.

'As revenge and retaliation, she arranged her actions and killed Milo Derto Guerrero,' Judge Alejandra Provitola said.

Guerrero allegedly used a pillow to suffocate her son while he slept at their home on January 15.

An autopsy noted Derto's death was caused by 'pulmonary congestion, edema, and hemorrhage.'

Paula Guerrero was indicted by a Buenos Aires court on Wednesday and charged with the murder of her two-year-old son Milo Derto, whom she allegedly suffocated with a pillow while he slept January 15. The killing, authorities say, was done in revenge towards her ex-boyfriend and father of her child, Felipe Derto, after the couple broke off their four-year relationship on New Year's

Mile Derto was reportedly killed by his mother while he slept at the Buenos Aires home on January 15

She denied killing her son, telling the judge she had drank alcohol and taken clonazepam  a sedative prescribed to treat seizures, panic disorder and anxiety - before she fell asleep and found her son unresponsive.

Authorities say Guerrero took her son's life as act of revenge towards the child's father, Felipe Derto, after the couple terminated their four-year relationship on New Year's.

They met while working together at a restaurant in Buenos Aires neighborhood of San Telmo and she accused him of being violent towards her months after she gave birth to Milo Derto, online news portal Infobae reported.

However, Felipe Derto countered by alleging that Guerrero was the one being abusive towards him.

Paula Guerrero told the Buenos Aires court that she had drank alcohol and taken a pill that is prescribed to treat seizures, panic disorder and anxiety before she woke up and found her two-year-old son unresponsive

Milo Derto's death was caused by 'pulmonary congestion, edema, and hemorrhage'

After splitting last month, Felipe Derto filed a domestic violence report with the Parque Palacios police station on January 10. He appeared before the police department's domestic violence unit on January to seek a temporary order of custody for his son, providing authorities with a string of text messages that he had received from Guerrero as proof that his son was in danger.

Felipe Dertos sister, Ayelen Derto, told Argentine newspaper La Voz that Guerrero was probably driven to kill her son after a law enforcement official notified her that they were going to strip her of her sons custody the following week.

She said the court committed the mistake of not removing the boy immediately.

Guerrero, who had become obsessed with Felipe Derto after their separation, became upset after she learned of the report and texted him, 'You ruined me with the statement you made against me. Forget Milo.'

Authorities were able to recover several shocking videos that Guerrero recorded in the days leading up to the murder, indicating it would be the last time that her son's paternal family would see him.

Guerrero thanked Felipe Derto's brother, Alexis Derto, in one of the videos for being a good uncle for her son, but expressed her discontent towards her former boyfriend, who was not receiving any of her phone calls.

'I just wanted to say thank you because you showed yourself to be a good guy and person, but we are not going to suffer another day with this baby. I'm tired of calling him (Felipe) and he doesn't answer,' Guerrero said. 'We just wanted to say goodbye to him. Living like this is not living. It is better not to live. I don't know you, but I love you for having listened to me.'

Guerrero then had Milo Derto appear on camera and told him, 'come, say 'bye' to your uncle. We've come this far. Take care.'

In a separate video, Guerrero claimed that 'she would take her son with her before giving him up to his father.'

'In simple words, behaviors before and after Milo's death lead me to consider that Paula Yasmina Guerrero killed her son as revenge or externalization -once again- of her anger or frustration towards her ex-partner,' Judge Provitola said during the court argument.
180 Seguros, a Sao Paulo, Brazil-based insurtech company, secured $31.4m in Series A funding.

The round was led by 8VC, followed by Dragoneer, Monashees, Atlantico, Quartz, and Norte.

The company intends to use the funds to continue to grow its 50-person team create joint ventures as well as expand the number of strategic partnerships with startups, retailers and companies.

Founded in 2020 by Mauro Levi DAncona, Alex Korner and Franco Lamping, 180 operates through a B2B2C model, providing a solution for companies to sell insurance products in a digital way. With its proprietary methodology, focused on the latest technologies, 180 analyzes each distribution channel, identifying opportunities to create unique products combining insurance products in the customers journey in order to offer the best customer centric experience through embedded insurance.

Since its founding, 180 has launched nine new products and services in eight different channels.

FinSMEs

03/02/2022
A Canadian teen slain during an overseas trip to meet her English boyfriend for the first time after connecting online was planning to cut her trip short amid trouble in the relationship, a friend says.

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, was discovered fatally stabbed Tuesday afternoon in his Chelmsford, England, flat. She was visiting the city - about 40 miles northeast of London - to stay with Jack Sepple, 23, who is now charged with her murder.

Her friend Ana-Marie Taylor told DailyMail.com that Wadsworth initially planned to stay with Sepple until April after arriving in November, but recently changed her mind and was set to return Thursday.

'She cut it short because things were not going too great,' Taylor said, who added: 'She really did love him. Things were amazing at first.'

A neighbor in Chelmsford told DailyMail.com that Ashley's family had actually paid for her plane ticket to return to Canada - which would have been on Thursday - after she had called and told them she wasn't happy staying in Britain.

Taylor said she was not aware of any abuse in the relationship, nor did she elaborate on why their relationship began crumbling. She said the couple met online in 2020; according to other reports, this was the first time they met in person.

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, flew from Canada to England last November to meet her 23-year-old online boyfriend Jack Sepple (pictured together in a photo posted to Facebook on January 30)

Wadsworth was fatally stabbed inside a Chelmsford, England flat on Tuesday, just days before she was set to return home to Vernon, British Columbia. The couple is pictured in London on January 11, 2022

Wadsworth, who converted to the Church of the Latter-day Saints at age 18, was described by fellow churchgoer Daniel Seaman as a 'woman of great faith' who 'even wanted to share her faith her her boyfriend.'

The victim from the small town of Vernon, British Columbia, is now being remembered by loved ones back in Canada.

'Ashley was a beautiful, smart, caring young lady,' her cousin, Amanda Wadsworth, told DailyMail.com. 'She was on what should have been the trip of a lifetime and was taken from us far too soon.

'My cousin was a beautiful, kind, loving young lady that did not deserve this.'

She refused to comment on Sepple, saying: 'I'm not interested in talking about him.'

Ashley's sister, Hailey, also mourned the loss of her younger sibling.

'You were always coming over everyday to be with your little niece, Paisley, who sure loves her auntie,' she said. 'You have done amazing things honey, you cared so much for your family, you always put us first.

'God gained another beautiful angel. I love you so much baby girl.'

I want to thank Ashley Wadsworth's family for speaking with me. It wasn't easy & I'm eternally grateful to them for sharing her story. I fought back tears as I felt a connection to the brave, smart, confident woman, decribed by cousin Melissa Locke, who loved travel & her family pic.twitter.com/r9lxAEwLP2  Lasia Kretzel (@rhymeswpretzel) February 4, 2022

'She really did love him,' a friend of Wadworth said. 'Things were amazing at first'

Sepple is depicted in a court sketch during a court appearance at Colchester Magistrates' Court on February 3, 2022

Sepple, who wore a grey sweater and pants during his appearance, was remained into custody

Wadsworth documented her trip across the pond on Facebook, and just days before her death shared a selfie of the couple smiling for the camera.

Her boyfriend appeared at Colchester Magistrates' Court Thursday wearing a gray jumper and trousers and was remanded in custody after being charged with murder.

He'll next appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday.

Wadsworth was described by fellow churchgoer Daniel Seaman as a 'woman of great faith' who 'even wanted to share her faith her her boyfriend'.

The teenager, who had never left Canada before but was said to have wanted to escape 'small town life', had flown to the UK on a six-month tourist visa on November 12 to stay with Sepple.

The couple met on an online dating app in 2020, a friend said. They met in person for the first time after she flew to England

During her trip to the UK, Wadsworth visited dozens of tourist hotspots including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben in London

Her best friend, MacKenzie Palm, shared a moving tribute to the victim on Facebook.

'I wish I could remind you one last time that I love you. but instead I feel like writing this out and sharing it, is kind of like sending a prayer out to you to remind you how much you mean to me,' Palm wrote.

'Since grade 7, you were my best friend, my family and my rock. we went through so many phases together, we did so many silly things together. we made so many memories.

'... I hope heaven is everything you read about in church and more. and Ashley just know, I love you.'

Her sister Hailey shared a photo of them together captioned 'our angel.' Hailey on another posted vowed to 'get justice' for her slain sister.

'My poor baby sister we will get justice baby girl,' she wrote. 'I love you so much I miss u everyday ur big sissy loves u.'

Her sister Hailey paid tribute on Facebook with a caption that reads 'my angel'

She on another post vowed to 'get justice' for her slain younger sister, who recently converted to Mormonism

Wadsworth flew to the UK from Vernon, a city around 270 miles northeast of Vancouver with a population of about 43,000, according to its authority's website.

The city is surrounded by three lakes and provides' an exceptional quality of life with a mix of urban amenities, world class resorts, amazing recreational opportunities'.

Mormons have been present in British Columbia since 1872 and around 31,000 residents of the province are served by its Langley temple.

During her trip to the UK, Wadsworth visited dozens of tourist hotspots including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben in London.

She also joined Sepple's family for a trip to the historic town of Rye in East Sussex.

Her step mother Charmaine Wadsworth told CBC News today: 'We are just remembering how strong, smart and witty Ashleigh was - how kind she was and how she was always 10 steps ahead of all of us.

'She will be dearly missed by each and every one of us.'
(Newser)  Former Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke left prison on Thursday after serving less than half of his nearly seven-year sentence for killing Black teenager Laquan McDonald, angering community leaders who feel the white officer's punishment didn't fit his crime. Van Dyke was released at 12:15am from the Taylorville Correctional Center in central Illinois, a corrections official said. The conditions of his parole and what Van Dyke plans to do next weren't immediately known, the AP reports.

Van Dyke in 2018 became the first Chicago officer in about a half-century to be convicted of murder for an on-duty killingafter shooting McDonald 16 timesand many Black leaders hoped his conviction for second-degree murder and aggravated battery signaled a new era of police accountability and of the department's treatment of the city's Black residents. But they said the early release for good behavior after he served about three years, four months of his sentence of six years, nine months revictimized McDonald and the Black community. "This is the ultimate illustration that Black lives don't matter as much as other lives," said the Rev. Marshall Hatch, a prominent minister on the citys West Side. Mayor Lori Lightfoot made a similar point.

"I understand why this continues to feel like a miscarriage of justice, especially when many Black and brown men get sentenced to so much more prison time for having committed far lesser crimes," Lightfoot said Thursday. The NAACP this week asked US Attorney General Merrick Garland to bring federal civil rights charges against Van Dyke. McDonald's grandmother, Tracie Hunter, has asked for the same thing. And although McDonalds great uncle, the Rev. Marvin Hunter, believes the sentence was woefully inadequate, he said it doesnt take away from the significance of the case. "Had Jason Van Dyke gotten one day in jail it would have been a victory because he was the first," Hunter said. Since then, police across the country are getting convicted of murdering Black people."

(Read more Laquan McDonald stories.)
Hundreds of mourners gathered Thursday at the Schimunek Funeral Home in Bel Air to pay tribute to Lt. Paul Butrim, one of three firefighters killed last week in one of Baltimores deadliest fires for first responders.

Fire trucks from the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Department and Joppa Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company held up a large American flag over the entrance to the funeral home off of West Macphail Road.

Green tents lined the area, helping keep people dry from the persistent, steady rain. Outside of the funeral homes doors was Butrims engine, Truck 23, and nearby members of the Maryland Patriot Guard riders held flags.

Dozens of Baltimore City firefighters, paramedics and EMTs dressed in their black dress clothes idled outside. As they waited, they hugged and laughed, sharing stories about their fallen fellow members.

Butrim, Lt. Kelsey Sadler and firefighter/paramedic Kenny Lacayo were killed battling a blaze that tore through a vacant rowhome in Southwest Baltimores Mount Clare neighborhood.

The house collapsed soon after Sadler, 33, Lacayo, 30, and Butrim, 37, entered the building around 6 a.m. Jan. 24, burying them and firefighter/EMT John McMaster in debris. McMaster sustained serious injuries but was released from Shock Trauma three days later.

Wednesday morning there was also a joint memorial service for the trio at the Baltimore Convention Center that brought thousands of first responders from the city and as far away as France.

Sadler and Lacayos viewing was held Tuesday at Duda-Ruck Funeral Home in Dundalk.

Butrim, 37, a Harford County native, started his career as a member of the Joppa Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company, shortly after graduating from Edgewood High School. He became a Baltimore City firefighter in 2006 and was promoted to lieutenant 10 years later. Family and friends remembered him as a devoted father and husband and someone who could always pack a punchline.

In 2015, he rescued an unconscious young child from an apartment fire, and performed one-person CPR until emergency medical services arrived, earning him an Exemplary Performance Award.

Story continues

He always dreamed of joining Truck 23 in Pigtown, said his friend Josh Fannon, president of the Baltimore Fire Officers Union, IAFF Local 964, during a eulogy on Wednesday.

A practical joker in the firehouse, Butrim once tricked a co-worker into wearing a pair of womens underwear over his firefighting uniform, Fannon said.

He enjoyed watching the Boston Red Sox and NASCAR and camping with his wife, Rachel, and young son, Nolan, who died three years ago this month.

Paul is keeping a watchful eye over all of us with Nolan at this side. Together at last, Fannon said.

Baltimore Sun reporters Christine Condon and Lilly Price contributed to this article.
The 90s-set spinoff series for That 70s' Show was announced in October.

And cast members for the new project have now been revealed.

Callie Haverda and Ashely Aufderheide have been cast, as well as Mace Coronel, Maxwell Acee Donovan, Reyn Doi and Sam Morelos.

Casting: The 90s-set spinoff series for That 70s' Show was announced in October. And cast members for the new project have now been revealed; Callie Haverda pictured

Kurtwood Smith and Debra Jo Rupp, who played Red and Kitty Forman in the original series, are set to reprise their roles in the spinoff; they are also executive producers for the spinoff.

Red and Kitty were the parents of lead character Eric Forman (Topher Grace) and their home was the setting for most of the show's episodes, notably the basement where Eric would hang out with his friends Donna Pinciotti (Laura Prepon), Jackie Burkhart (Mila Kunis), Steven Hyde (Danny Masterson), Michael Kelso (Ashton Kutcher), and Fez (Wilmer Valderrama).

That '70s Show, set in the 1970s, aired from 1998 until 2006 - eight seasons total.

Callie, 14, will play Leia, the daughter of Eric and Donna; the plot will focus on Leia heading to Wisconsin to spend the summer of 1995 with her grandparents, Red and Kitty.

'Smart like her mom, snarky like her dad, Leia is craving adventure. She's just not quite sure where or how to start. Until she discovers a best friend in the most unlikely of places; next door to her grandparents house in Point Place,' via TooFab.com.

Stars: Callie Haverda and Ashely Aufderheide have been cast, as well as Mace Coronel, Maxwell Acee Donovan, Reyn Doi and Sam Morelos; Ashley Aufderhelde pictured

Ashley, 14, plays her friend Gwen, who according to Netflix via TooFab makes Leia's life 'a lot more interesting' after they meet: 'Equal parts loyal, rebellion and heart, Gwen is a dynamic powerhouse and the unofficial leader of the new generation of Point Place kids.'

Mace will play Jay, Maxwell as Nate (Gwen's brother), Reyn as Ozzie and Sam as Nikki, per the outlet.

Netflix has ordered ten episodes of That '90s Show.

Throwback: Red and Kitty were the parents of lead character Eric Forman (Topher Grace) and their home was the setting for most of the show's episodes, notably the basement where Eric would hang out with his friends Donna Pinciotti (Laura Prepon), Jackie Burkhart (Mila Kunis), Steven Hyde (Danny Masterson), Michael Kelso (Ashton Kutcher), and Fez (Wilmer Valderrama)

That 90s Show will be a multi-cam sitcom like its predecessor, which followed a group of teenagers growing up in a fictitious Wisconsin town in the 1970s.

The official synopsis for the spinoff reads: 'Hello, Wisconsin! It's 1995 and Leia Forman, daughter of Eric and Donna, is visiting her grandparents for the summer where she bonds with a new generation of Point Place kids under the watchful eye of Kitty and the stern glare of Red.

'Sex, drugs and rock 'n roll never dies, it just changes clothes.'

Bonnie Turner and Terry Turner, who co-created the original show with Mark Brazill, will write and executive produce the spinoff along with their daughter Lindsay.

Coming back: Kurtwood Smith and Debra Jo Rupp, who played Red and Kitty Forman in the original series, are set to reprise their roles in the spinoff; they are also executive producers for the spinoff; seen together in 2005

Gregg Mettler, who produced the original show from 2001-2006, will serve as showrunner and executive producer. That 70s Show executive producers Marcy Carsey and Tom Werner will also executive produce the spinoff along with Smith and Rupp.

That 70s Show was a big hit for Fox, running for eight seasons and airing 200 episodes. The sitcom launched its young cast members to fame and though both Topher and Ashton left after the seventh season, they came back for the series finale in May 2006.

That '80s Show, a half-hour comedy that was inspired by That 70s Show and created by the Turners and Brazill, debuted in 2002 but was canceled by Fox after one season.

Smith shared the news of the upcoming reboot on his Instagram page, posting the Variety article and writing, 'Who says I cant keep a secret #That90sShow #Netflix.'

Wilmer commented, 'Yes yes yes!!!!!' It was not announced if any of the other cast members from the original series will be making appearances on the spinoff.
One of two men charged in the shooting death of a Butte man in December was a bondsman trying to nab someone else for skipping bail, and the man who fired the gun was a convicted felon trying to assist with the apprehension.

The alleged shooter had also been arrested on bench warrants, was bailed out by the same bondsman, had repeatedly violated probation, and at the time of the shooting, prosecutors were seeking to have his suspended sentence for stalking revoked.

It was revoked two weeks ago while he was jailed on the current charges.

Bondsman Jay Steven Hubber and Nicholas John Jaeger barged into William Harris house on South Main Street unannounced on Dec. 19, prosecutors say in newly filed charging documents. Hubber tased alleged bail-jumper David Sandoval and the two began wrestling on a bed.

According to Sandoval and another man in the room, as Harris stepped forward to intervene, Jaeger grabbed a gun from Hubber and fired at least two shots at Harris. There were several others in the house at the time.

Jaeger told police that Harris possibly had a pair of scissors in one hand and was threatening to kick him in the face, and when he jumped toward him on the bed, he fired two rounds.

But in the charging documents, Jaeger was the only one who said Harris might have been armed with anything. He also said there were other men in the house holding sticks in a violent manner but never swung them.

When police arrived, an officer found Harris lying on the floor  his eyes open, not breathing and without a pulse  and knew he was dead, prosecutors said. He had been shot in the face.

Hubber and Jaeger, both 32, were arrested and charged with deliberate homicide and aggravated burglary. But police released few details and initial charging documents only said they went into the house unlawfully, a man was tased, Jaeger shot Harris, he died, and both defendants were accountable.

Prosecutors recently filed additional documents with far more details they believe substantiate the charges. Deliberate homicide is punishable by death, life in prison or 100 years, and aggravated burglary has a maximum of 40 years.

Hubber posted $250,000 bond and was released but Jaeger remains jailed with bail set at $250,000. Both are scheduled to be arraigned on Feb. 9 before District Judge Robert Whelan.

Regulations for the bondsman profession in Montana are vague but there are insurance requirements. On the website for Alibi Bail Bonds in Butte, Jay Hubber is listed as its owner and senior bondsman.

There are no regulations on bounty hunters in Montana, including any licensing or training requirements. A Missoula District Court judge who presided over a bounty-hunting case a few years ago called on the Montana Legislature to fix that, but efforts to do so have failed.

Prosecutors in this case, however, clearly allege that Hubber and Jaeger went into Harris house unlawfully and are responsible for what happened inside that night.

DIFFERENT TAKES ON DETAILS

According to the new documents, police were called to Harris house at 815 S. Main St. shortly before 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 19, on a report that a man had been shot.

When they got there, several people came out of the house. Hubber was wearing a ballistic vest and a holster and as he was escorted to a patrol car, said he didnt shoot no one.

During the subsequent investigation, police learned that Butte City Court had mailed notices of bond forfeiture regarding Sandoval to Alibi Bail Bonds telling Hubber that he had 90 days to pay them or bring Sandoval to court. One was for $10,000 and the other $5,000.

Police believe Sandoval fled after the shooting and officers were told that a woman, Jacqueline Schwartz, had chased him down and struck him with a metal pipe to take him into custody. Schwartz identified herself as one of Hubbers bond agents but denied striking Sandoval, according to the charging documents.

Here is what Hubber, Jaeger and other witnesses told police happened:

DAVID SANDOVAL

Said he knew Hubber was looking for him because he had posted a $15,000 bond and Sandoval didnt show for a court date. Said he was hanging out and drinking at Harris house on Dec. 19 with at least two others.

Said Hubber and Jaeger came into the room without identifying themselves as bonding agents or bounty hunters and Hubber tased him and pushed him onto a bed. Jaeger was tasing him too, he said, and Hubber removed his gun from his holster.

Sandoval said he grabbed Hubbers wrist trying to push the gun away, Jaeger took the gun, and when an unarmed Harris stepped toward him, Jaeger shot him twice. Sandoval said he ran out of the house through a back door.

After speaking with police, Sandoval was arrested for the outstanding bench warrants and contempt complaints and as of Thursday, remained in jail with bail set at $30,000.

ONE WITNESS IN THE HOME

Said two dudes ran into the house unannounced and Hubber started tasing Sandoval, who was telling him to stop. Hubber pulled out his gun and Jaeger said give me that strap, meaning gun, and took it. Harris tried to step in and Jaeger shot him twice. Said Harris had no weapons.

ANOTHER WITNESS

Said two men came into the house without identifying themselves and began attacking Sandoval by punching him with brass knuckles. Hubber then tased Sandoval and everyone started yelling for them to get off him.

Said Harris was shouting at Hubber and Jaeger to get out and was trying to pull them off of Sandoval, but Harris did not strike anyone. Said Jaeger grabbed the gun from Hubber and was standing on the bed, and as Harris stepped toward him, he was shot twice.

JACQUELINE SCHWARTZ

Said she was with Hubber at the Acoma bar when someone called Hubber about Sandoval. Hubber called Jesse Jaeger, who had helped him on previous apprehensions, and Nicholas Jaeger joined them and all four drove to the house.

She identified herself as one of Hubbers bonding agents, according to prosecutors, but she said she wasnt there to assist in any way and was standing outside in an alley when she heard yelling and gunshots. Said Sandoval left the house upset, saying someone had been shot, and she followed him but did not strike or hit him.

JESSE JAEGER (Nicholas Jaegers brother)

Said he assisted Hubber with apprehensions on occasion. He said his brother Nicholas Jaeger owed Hubber money for a bond and agreed to assist in exchange for his debt being reduced.

Jesse Jaeger said he was waiting outside but then went in the house and apologized to one man, saying they were only there for Sandoval. Said one man was holding a stick but nobody was posing a threat.

Said he heard yelling from another room and either Hubber or Nicholas Jaeger was telling someone repeatedly to get the (expletive) back, and Im gonna shoot ya! Heard a different man tell them to get out of his house and then said, (expletive) shoot me! He then heard two gun shots.

JAY STEVEN HUBBER

Acknowledged they did not knock or announce their presence and said he saw Sandoval and tased him. Said there were several people in the room and he was being kicked in the head by an unknown person, possibly Harris.

Said Nicholas Jaeger took control of the taser and began to stun drive Sandoval with it. Said Jaeger removed the gun from Hubbers holster and he heard two shots and realized Harris had been shot. Said it was Nicholas Jaegers first time assisting him.

NICHOLAS JAEGER

Said he went into the house followed by Hubber and they did not knock or announce themselves. Said he walked to a bedroom and asked where Sandoval was, then Hubber came in and tased Sandoval.

Said they then identified themselves as bondsmen but Sandoval continued to struggle so he grabbed the taser and started to stun drive Sandoval. Said other men came in holding sticks in a violent manner but never swung them.

Said Harris had a beer in one hand and possibly a pair of scissors in the other hand and the other men were standing in a doorway threatening to hit Hubber with their sticks.

Nicholas Jaeger said he told the others to back up and as Hubber was trying to get the gun from his holster, Sandoval bucked. Said his focus was on keeping Hubber safe and he believed Hubber was going to get assaulted, then someone hit him in the back.

Recalled Harris saying, Im going to kick you in the (expletive) face, so he pulled the gun from Hubbers holster, pointed it at Harris and told everyone to back off or they were going to get shot.

Recalled Harris then saying, I dont give a (expletive) if you shoot me. Harris then jumped on the bed and Nicholas Jaeger said he fired two rounds at him.

Nick said he wasnt going to take any chances, the charging document states. Nick stated he felt Bill was going to attack Hubber.

BREAKDOWN ON THE CHARGES

Both Hubber and Jaeger are charged with aggravated burglary because they knowingly entered or remained unlawfully in Harris house and inflicted bodily injury to Sandoval by assaulting and tasing him. A conviction carries a maximum of 40 years.

However, Jaeger could face an additional two to 10 years if the court determines he displayed, brandished or used a dangerous weapon while committing the offense.

Both men are also charged with deliberate homicide, but under different sections of the law.

Jaeger is accused of purposefully shooting Harris. Hubber is accused of committing an aggravated burglary, and in the course of that offense, Harris was shot and killed. That makes him legally responsible for Harris death as well, prosecutors say, so he has been charged with felony murder under the deliberate homicide statute.

Nicholas Jaeger had his own legal troubles before fatal shooting

. There are no regulations on bounty hunters in Montana nor laws expressly allowing their existence or imposing limits on them. That means there is nothing prohibiting convicted felons from acting as bounty hunters, but state Sen. Diane Sands, D-Missoula, says there should be regulations on that and other aspects of bounty hunting activity. She has backed legislative efforts to impose regulations but they failed to materialize. She cannot run for another term but said Wednesday she hopes other lawmakers pursue the issue in the 2023 legislative session. At the time of the December shooting death of William Harris in Butte, Nicholas John Jaeger was still in the midst of his own legal troubles. He was charged with stalking his ex-wife in 2016 and before that case was done, was charged with stalking again in 2017, according to court records. The cases were consolidated and he ultimately pleaded guilty to one felony count of stalking. A judge gave him a three-year deferred sentence in March 2018, but in early 2019 he was cited for numerous probation violations. Among other things, probation officials said, he had used meth and marijuana, moved without notice and failed to report. He was eventually arrested on a bench warrant and Jay Hubber, a bondsman for Alibi Bail Bonds in Butte, posted his $10,000 bond, court records show. A judge revoked his deferred sentence, replacing it with a three-year suspended sentence. But he was again cited for probation violations in 2019 and 2020, including methamphetamine and heroin use, failing to report to probation officers and having drugs and paraphernalia at his home during a house check. The defendant has failed miserably while on supervision, a probation officer wrote in a February 2021 violation report. He has failed to report and has been using drugs. This makes him unsafe for community supervision/placement. He is a risk for public safety and trust. The Department of Corrections has tried to work with him but he does what he wants, when he wants and he doesnt feel rules apply to him  Jaeger was arrested again on a bench warrant, was released on bond, and prosecutors sought to have his suspended sentence revoked. That was still pending when Jaeger was charged with deliberate homicide and aggravated burglary this past December. Two weeks ago, on Jan. 19, District Judge Robert Whelan revoked Jaegers suspended sentence in the stalking case and sentenced him to three years in custody of the Montana Department of Corrections.
A woman was sentenced to 85 years in prison Thursday for her role in the 2019 murder of a man in a Ballantine motel.

China Rose Dawn Davis didnt squeeze the trigger on the shotgun that killed Carl Archer Jr., but Yellowstone County District Court Judge Ashley Harada held her responsible for orchestrating the robbery that precipitated the homicide. The sentence follows the 31-year-olds conviction in September 2021 of deliberate homicide with a weapons enhancement.

But for Chinas actions and involvement, I do think that Carl Archer would still be alive," Harada said at the sentencing. "This is not a situation where China was in the wrong place at the wrong time. There was absolutely a plan in place to rob Carl Archer."

Deputies with the Yellowstone County Sheriffs Office responded to a 911 call in Ballantine, a small town about 20 miles east of Billings, in the early hours of Nov. 2, 2019. A sheriffs sergeant spotted two women walking in the road, one of whom was later identified as Davis.

They were both carrying bags and appeared to be frightened, according to an affidavit filed in court. They told the sergeant their friend was lying unresponsive in a room at the Tiger Town Motel in Ballantine. Law enforcement found Archer in the motel room dead from a gunshot wound. He was 53 years old.

In her initial statement to investigators, Davis said that she and the woman met with Archer at the motel. When she heard a knock at the door, Archer told her not to answer it. James Reese Eder then entered the room with a shotgun drawn. The gun went off and Eder left the room once Archer fell to the ground, she said.

In a separate statement given to law enforcement in June 2020, Davis said she and Eder had planned to rob Archer prior to the murder. She said Archer owed her drugs for driving him back and forth from Nevada, documents said. When Eder asked her if he should bring a gun or bear spray, she told him to get the gun. After Davis met Archer at a Billings hotel, they moved to the Tiger Town Motel. Eder followed them there while keeping in touch with Davis via text to learn what room they were staying in. The two women left the motel with drugs following the shooting, she said, only to toss them near the bridge where they met the Yellowstone County sergeant.

Eder, who was arrested by YCSO members the day of Archers death, was charged and later sentenced for deliberate homicide with a weapons enhancement. District Judge Rod Souza ordered that Eder serve 55 years in prison, plus an additional five for the weapons enhancement.

A third man involved in the homicide, Charlie Reimers, received a 20-year sentence in the Montana Department of Corrections with 15 years suspended. Reimers pleaded guilty to robbery by accountability for supplying the shotgun that killed Archer and driving the van used by Eder to reach and eventually flee from Ballantine. Reimers was unaware of the plan to use the shotgun to rob Archer, the Gazette previously reported.

Davis was convicted in Yellowstone County District Court with homicide under the felony murder rule. Those who take part in a forcible felony that results in a death are just as culpable for that death, according to the rule. Speaking during her trial last year, she said she never intended for Archer to die.

Yellowstone County prosecutors recommended the court sentence Davis to 100 years in prison, which included 10 years for the weapons enhancement. Senior Deputy County Attorney Paul Vestal justified the sentence to Judge Harada in Thursdays hearing citing Daviss encouragement that Eder use a weapon, and keeping in touch with him as Eder tailed Archer. She also assuaged Archers fear that they were being followed on the drive to Ballantine. Throughout the investigation and trial process, she refused to accept any responsibility in Archers killing, Vestal said.

She sets up the situation. She flees after Carl Archer is dead. She clearly has enough charge on her phone to call law enforcement, makes no effort to do so What does she do? She steals the dead mans drugs and flees, he said.

Defense attorneys for Davis asked for a sentence of 30 years in prison with 15 suspended. Sarah Snow Kottke told the judge that abuse marred Daviss childhood. The mother of four has since been diagnosed with depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. She started using meth in 2010, according to court records. Before 2020, her longest period of sobriety was the two months that she spent in drug treatment in 2018.

Her attorneys did not dispute that drugs and addiction spurred the events that led to Archer being shot. They did argue that it was Eder who manipulated Davis. Attorney Blaine McGivern said Eder took advantage of her during their relationship, and coerced her into planning the robbery.

I completely agree that James Eder is a dangerous and evil man. I sat next to him when he testified and it was bone-chilling. But I also find that China knew that he was a dangerous man. China knew who she was dealing with, and she weaponized him, Judge Harada said after prosecutors and defense attorneys finished their statements.

Davis could have calmed the situation at several points during the night of Nov. 1 and into the early morning of Nov. 2, Harada said, but instead she encouraged the robbery. Harada sentenced Davis to 80 years in Montana Women's Prison, with five years added for the weapons enhancement. She is also required to pay restitution amounting to nearly $10,000.

In December 2020, Davis was sentenced for a series of other felonies, including theft and criminal endangerment. The offenses occurred in the months that followed the Ballantine homicide.

I only hope that one day you [the family and friends of Carl Archer Jr.] will be able to forgive me. I hope that my years in prison will not only help to ease your hurt, but will also pay my debt to society, and help make me a better person, Davis said in court before her sentencing.
By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The United Nations has about $135 million in the bank in Afghanistan but is unable to use it because the Taliban-run central bank cannot convert it to the afghani currency, a senior U.N. official said on Thursday.

Abdallah al Dardari, head of the U.N. Development Programme in Afghanistan, said the United Nations had taken the U.S. dollars into the country and deposited it with the Afghanistan International Bank "with a clear promise from the central bank that fresh cash will be automatically converted to afghanis."

"This did not happen," he told the ACAMS Global Sanctions Space Summit, adding that UNDP itself has "$30 million stuck at AIB that I cannot convert to afghanis and without afghanis as you can imagine, we cannot implement all our programs."

The Taliban, who seized power in August, banned the use of foreign currency in a country where U.S. dollars were common.

The Islamist group has long been under international sanctions, which the United Nations and aid groups say are now hindering humanitarian operations in Afghanistan, where more than half the country's 39 million people suffer extreme hunger and the economy, education and social services face collapse.

Billions of dollars in Afghan central bank reserves and foreign development aid have been frozen to prevent it from falling into Taliban hands. International banks are wary of breaching sanctions, leaving the United Nations and aid groups struggling to get enough money into the country.

Liquidity is also a problem. Al Dardari told Reuters in November that while there was about $4 billion worth of afghanis in the economy, only about $500 million worth was in circulation.

The United Nations and the World Bank are discussing a possible swap facility, aid groups and U.N. officials have said.

Al Dardari said on Thursday that this would allow cash for humanitarian operations to be paid into a mechanism abroad and then afghanis could be collected "from major traders and mobile companies from inside Afghanistan."

He also said lessons could be learned from a program in Myanmar, where electronic payment systems bypassed the central bank. Myanmar's military have been hit with a raft of sanctions by the United States and others since a coup a year ago.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Stephen Coates)
The deputy prime minister has attacked the motivations of a Liberal cabinet minister who leaked text damaging messages criticising Scott Morrison.

The messages between the mystery minister and former NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian, revealed by Network Ten, labelled the prime minister a 'horrible, horrible person' who was 'actively spreading lies'.

Barnaby Joyce says the messages should be ignored because of the leaker's intention to deliberately damage the government.

Barnaby Joyce (pictured with fiance Vikki Campion and their sons) has attacked the motivations of a Liberal cabinet minister who leaked text damaging messages criticising Scott Morrison

'You are doing this for the purpose of malice, for the purpose of vindictiveness and for your own personal grudge and therefore, it is to be disregarded,' he told the ABC.

'It's not so much what is said, it's the motivation. The Australian people aren't stupid. They'll say, ''Yeah, I could show you texts between brothers and sisters but we never expect you to show them to mum or dad''.'

Mr Joyce also labelled former Liberal prime minister Malcolm Turnbull 'an angry man' who finds reasons to attack the government.

Mr Turnbull said he wasn't surprised by the content of the messages, only that they made their way into the public domain, and that the government is in 'plenty of trouble' coming in 12 points behind Labor in the latest Newspoll.

Defence Minister Peter Dutton said people say things that are exaggerated and heated in the moment, and the messages didn't represent Mr Morrison's character.

'(Putting) the petty discussions to one side, most Australians see they've got a prime minister who is human like the rest of us, doesn't get everything right, but dedicates himself each day to get us through the realities of Covid,' he told the ABC.

On Thursday Greg Hunt insisted that no federal cabinet minister called Scott Morrison a psycho in texts to Gladys Berejiklian.

The Health Minister suggested Peter van Onselen was lying when he claimed the bombshell texts were from a current Liberal federal cabinet minister.

'I don't believe there is any federal minister in this Cabinet that's involved,' Mr Hunt told ABC radio on Thursday morning.

Greg Hunt has insisted that no federal cabinet minster called Scott Morrison a psycho in texts to Gladys Berejiklian

He went on to say there was 'no evidence' the texts came from a cabinet minister.

On Wednesday the Prime Minister said 'I have confidence' the texts were not sent from someone in his cabinet, possibly implying someone in the NSW state cabinet was to blame.

Network Ten political editor Peter van Onselen confronted the PM on live TV with the incendiary text messages, which were sent during the 2019 bushfires, on Tuesday.

'I've got them right here,' he told Mr Morrison as the PM faced questions from the media after his keynote speech to the National Press Club.

'In one, she (Gladys Berejiklian) described you as, quote, ''a horrible, horrible person'', going on to say she did not trust you, and you're more concerned with politics than people.

'The minister is even more scathing, describing you as a fraud and, quote, ''a complete psycho''.

In a statement released hours later, Ms Berejiklian said she had 'no recollection' of the remarks, but didn't deny they were said.

Van Onselen says he got the texts from the federal cabinet minister who was involved but has refused to name his source, sparking a witch hunt.

Network Ten political editor Peter van Onselen confronted the PM on live TV with the incendiary text messages

In his column for The Australian on Thursday, the reporter said he would never reveal the minister's identity.

'The minister is the source, which is also why the veracity of the text exchange isn't in question. It wasn't passed on by a third party, for example,' he wrote.

'I'm the only other person who knows who the minister is and that's the way it will always be. Journalists protect their sources.'

He later addressed criticism that he deliberately picked his moment to ambush the PM with the messages to inflict maximum political damage.

'I was only authorised to use them recently, but I was made aware of them a while ago,' he wrote on Twitter.

'The National Press Club was the best opportunity available to put the messages to the PM and get a proper response. At a news conference, he would have dismissed that question long before it was over,' he added in his column.

Marise Payne, Greg Hunt, Karen Andrews, Paul Fletcher and Angus Taylor have publicly denied sending the texts.
By Kanishka Singh

(Reuters) - The District of Colombia's Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) maintains a "watch list" of reporters, advocates and critics, and delays or denies requests for public records based on who is making the requests, a lawsuit alleged.

People are put on the watch list when they "publicly criticize MPD or when they request information that has the potential to embarrass MPD or its officers", said the lawsuit filed on Wednesday by defense attorney and police reform advocate Amy Phillips against the District of Colombia in U.S. District Court in Washington.

Those on the list who make Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests "face hurdles that the general public avoids" such as fees or request denials, it added.

The suit demands an end to the practice and a declaration that the list violates the Constitution.

The MPD acknowledged the "serious nature" of the allegations.

"A thorough review of the assertions will be completed and appropriately acted upon," it said in a statement.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said all FOIA requests should be handled "as expeditiously as possible."

"I expect that from every agency. I'll be looking into that. The speed at which we respond to it should be agnostic to who's asking for it," she said in a statement on Thursday.

The suit said Phillips learnt of the list from Vendette Parker, a 21-year veteran of the department who retired in 2020. Records requests by those on the list were flagged for "special review" as they could embarrass the department, the suit adds.

Peter Newsham, who served as chief of the Metropolitan Police Department from September 2016 through December 2020, had instructed the department's FOIA compliance officers to inform him of all incoming requests, according to the lawsuit's allegations. Current police chief Robert Contee has continued this policy, the filing alleges.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Stephen Coates)
MATTOON  A State Trooper working an interstate near Mattoon was lucky to escape serious injury Wednesday when a passing vehicle slid into his squad car.

It was one of three crashes involving what the police described as careless drivers failing to move over and plowing into troopers vehicles; two other crashes in Springfield and near Illiopolis resulted in two troopers being injured and taken to hospital, although their injuries were not described as serious.

ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly appealed for drivers to stay off the roads in this snow emergency. If you absolutely have to get out, move over and slow down upon approaching first responders, he added.

Give them the room they need to assist other motorists and get home safely to their families.

The Mattoon crash happened at 12:36 p.m. as a trooper was driving south on Interstate 57 south of Mattoon. An ISP news release said a vehicle driven by a 20-year-old man from Missouri tried to pass him and lost control on the slick pavement, smashing into the rear of the troopers squad car. The driver was not hurt and was cited for following too closely.

The collision near Illiopolis happened at 7:40 a.m. on the left shoulder of westbound I-72. Police said a trooper was helping a stranded motorist when a car driven by a 29-year-old Springfield man slid into the back of the squad car, which was parked with its emergency lights activated.

The trooper was treated in hospital and, while the crash remains under investigation, police said a violation of the Illinois Move Over Law was a contributing factor.

The Springfield collision happened at 3:22 p.m. as a trooper was parked on the right shoulder of the ramp from southbound Veterans Parkway to I-72 eastbound handling an earlier crash. Again, the squad car had its emergency lights activated when police say a driver lost control on ice and rammed the rear of the police car, pushing the squad into the wrecked vehicle from the earlier crash.

Police did not identify the civilian driver involved but said, again, that a violation of the Move Over Law had been a factor in the accident. The trooper was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery, police said.

The Move Over Law, known as Scotts Law, punishes drivers who fail to move out of the way of first responders with fines up to $10,000. Accidents that result in injuries can lead offending drivers having their licenses suspended for up to two years.
FORT EDWARD  Schenectady County District Attorney Robert Carney has been assigned as special prosecutor for a criminal investigation involving Fort Edward Police Sgt. Dean Watkins.

Watkins, who is currently on administrative leave from the department related to a separate matter, is under investigation stemming from a Tasing incident that took place last July, according to WNYT-TV NewsChannel 13.

Watkins and Fort Edward Police Chief Justin Derway were placed on administrative leave by the Fort Edward Village Board during an emergency meeting on Jan. 24.

Carney said it is common for an outside district attorney to serve as special prosecutor when there is a possibility of a conflict of interest among law enforcement personnel and prosecutors in a particular county. Washington County District Attorney Tony Jordan requested a special prosecutor because there are criminal charges possible, according to Carney.

We do that for each other. Tony Jordan has done some cases for us. Weve done one case at least for him, he said. Its just a question of helping out a colleague.

Video footage was uncovered by NewsChannel 13 that appears to show Watkins using a Taser on a man who was handcuffed at the wrists and ankles inside of the Fort Edward police station.

The video can be seen on the NewsChannel 13 website.

According to NewsChannel 13, Robert Murat-Hinton had been arrested in connection with a July 8 bar fight.

Jordan said that Murat-Hinton was arrested and charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon, a felony, and a menacing charge, a misdemeanor. He was accused of threatening people at the bar with a knife.

The video shows Murat-Hinton handcuffed at the wrists and ankles. His wrists were handcuffed to the wall. Murat-Hinton began kicking the wall with force, causing damage as police were doing paperwork in the next room.

In the video, an officer is seen coming out and seemingly telling Murat-Hinton to stop, which he appears to do. It was at that point Watkins enters with Taser in hand.

Murat-Hinton appears to say, What are you going to do?

Watkins can be heard saying, Im going to (expletive) Tase you right now.

Murat-Hinton fell to the floor still handcuffed to the wall after Watkins appears to deploy his Taser. Watkins can be heard in the video saying that he Tased Murat-Hinton to stop him from kicking the wall.

But the Tasing incident appears to happen after the kicking had stopped.

Jordan said that Murat-Hinton was charged with criminal mischief after kicking and causing damage to the wall at the police station.

Murat-Hinton pleaded guilty to the felony criminal mischief in full satisfaction of all open charges, according to Jordan. He was sentenced as a second felony offender on Jan. 28 to 1 1/2 to 3 years in state prison.

NewsChannel 13 reported that Watkins is on administrative leave due to being accused of falsifying documents stating that he had trained officers while not on duty, and that Derway is also on leave related to those documents.

In an email to The Post-Star on Wednesday night, Fort Edward Mayor Matt Traver said he does not know where information regarding Watkins and Derways leave came from.

Traver has stated he is unable to discuss pending investigations.

When we have information we can share, we will, he said in the email.

Traver said the video of Watkins, which the village became aware of when it was released by NewsChannel 13, is under investigation by the village.

The next Fort Edward Village Board meeting is scheduled for Monday at 7 p.m.
Feb. 2JOHNSTON  The accolades piled up all season long for Strom Thurmond's Devron Williams, and only one question remained heading into Wednesday's National Signing Day.

Where will he play college football?

There were plenty of options, similar to how the Rebels' versatile leader gave his coaches plenty of options about where to put him on the field. Ultimately, he found his next home at Newberry College, where he'll join a host of talented in-state prospects trying to take a playoff program even further.

"I had a lot of options. A lot of people wanted me to come to their school, telling me I've got an opportunity to start," he said shortly after donning a Newberry hat. A video screen at his signing displayed logos from Newberry, North Greenville, Presbyterian, Savannah State, Limestone and Wingate. "At the end of the day, I go with my heart where I want to go."

Williams acknowledged following his signing that not everybody gets that kind of opportunity, one he earned through years of hard work, growth and maturity at Strom Thurmond.

This past season he was named the Region 5-AAA Defensive Player of the Year, was picked for the Shrine Bowl, was a North-South all-star, made the Class AAA All-State team and was a first-team All-Aiken Standard selection at linebacker. He made 63 tackles with 1.5 sacks, four tackles for loss, one forced fumble, five quarterback pressures and four quarterback hits. He was also the team's third-leading rusher with 274 yards and a pair of scores on just 36 carries.

"Just an impact player, man," said former Strom Thurmond head coach Antwaun Hillary. "I think one of our coaches said it best, just somebody you can throw anywhere and know he's going to make an impact on the game. He's made a ton of plays since he's been here. Just being able to line up his academics with his play and give himself a chance at the next level.

"It's something he's been dreaming about since he was a little kid. It's something I promised to him when he came to us, because I saw the potential. I'm just excited for his playing career at the next level, but more importantly the chance to get a college education."

Story continues

Newberry's coaches are planning to take advantage of his versatility, as Williams said Wednesday that he will primarily play linebacker but has been told he'll also get his chances to run the football. He also punted for the Rebels in previous seasons, should the Wolves find themselves in a bind at that position.

Williams, who plans to study business management, credited his coaches for preparing him to make this leap to the next level  "I'm not going to say they're strict, but they don't play," he said.

Hillary described Williams as someone who went from being the best player on the field and being able to do everything in rec league and middle school to being someone who bought into the team culture at Strom Thurmond and became a leader who rubbed off on his teammates.

Those teammates, plus countless friends, family members, coaches, teachers and others filled the gym to celebrate his signing.

"It means I've got a lot of support," he said. "Everybody's going to be behind me, every decision I make."
WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA will hold a community town hall meeting at 1:30 p.m. EST Tuesday, Feb. 8, with Thomas H. Zurbuchen, associate administrator for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Zurbuchen and his team will discuss updates to NASA's science program and share the current status of various activities.

Members of the science community, academia, the media, and the public are invited to participate by joining at:

https://go.nasa.gov/3Gk6YrN

If prompted, please use event number: 27644299569, followed by event password: k9kVn3mvWX5.

Participants may submit questions online at:

https://nasa.cnf.io/sessions/nqzy

Users must provide their first and last name, organization, and can submit their own questions or vote up questions submitted by others. The meeting leaders will try to answer as many of the submitted questions as possible.

This town hall will be recorded. Presentation materials for the meeting will be available for download and a recording will be available later that day at:

https://science.nasa.gov/researchers/virtual-townhall

SOURCE NASA
After several years of planning for a multibillion-dollar project on the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus, some of that work is about to begin.

The University of Nebraska Board of Regents next week will consider approving the demolition of the former Munroe-Meyer Institute complex, which is north of the Buffett Cancer Center on UNMCs campus.

The 7-acre site where the institute sat for decades has been identified as a possible location for Project NExT. Its a proposal of UNMC and Nebraska Medicine that would combine a state-of-the-art teaching hospital and federally funded spaces designed to enhance the nations response to a host of different hazards.

The proposal has pledges of funding from city and state leaders, with the states pledge contingent on securing federal and private contributions.

Its an exciting time, Dr. Jeffrey Gold, UNMCs chancellor, said Thursday of the proposed demolition and site work. It recognizes an end of an era for the MMI facilities on this campus but also the beginning of another set of great opportunities.

Munroe-Meyer provides a wide variety of services to people with intellectual and development disabilities, as well as to those with behavioral and learning disorders such as autism. The institute moved to a $91 million new home last year in Aksarben Village near 69th and Pine Streets.

The regents also will consider approving the proposed Saddle Creek Campus Public Improvements Project, which will launch improvements to roadways, utilities and other infrastructure for the planned expansion of UNMCs campus west of Saddle Creek Road. If approved, construction would start in September and wrap up in August 2025.

The City of Omaha has pledged $93 million over the next decade to support both the Saddle Creek expansion and Project NExT.

The demolition and remediation of the Munroe-Meyer site will be covered by philanthropic dollars, Gold said. The regents agenda lists the projects cost at nearly $7 million. The work would be slated for completion next spring, depending on weather.

Final relocations from the former Munroe-Meyer complex will be completed this spring, leaving the facility empty. The complex consists of four attached structures built in the late 1950s that previously housed Munroe-Meyer, the Hattie B. Munroe Home and J.P. Lord School, which relocated in 2018.

University officials recommended the complex be demolished because it has among the highest utility consumption on campus and contains asbestos. The sites proximity to the cancer center, research towers and other facilities provides an opportunity for a large-scale replacement building connected to the core of campus, according to the regents agenda.

Gold said the site is one of the potential sites, if not the prime potential site, for at least some of Project NExT, depending on the eventual scope of the project.

Meanwhile, UNMC officials have been moving ahead on plans to create an innovation hub and a new administrative tower west of Saddle Creek. The tower, to be situated on the southwest corner of Saddle Creek Road and Farnam Street, is slated to begin rising this year. Not only will the tower allow the university to consolidate administrative offices that are scattered across campus, it also would be closely tied to Project NExT.

Project NExT took a key step forward last May when Omaha was selected as one of five pilot sites in the U.S. tasked with developing a federal program to bolster the nations disaster response capacity.

The goals of that effort are to improve the National Disaster Medical System, a federal program that provides trained medical personnel to respond to disasters, and to bolster the nations medical surge capacity. UNMC and Nebraska Medicine already have done a good deal of training through the system.

The purpose of the pilot project is to define what Project NExT should be, in terms of how it will serve the needs of the country and the communities involved.

The U.S. Defense Department is exploring some of those questions in an ongoing study, Gold said. A UNMC team is participating in that work.

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022, approved by Congress in December, includes the strongest language yet in favor of the project, Gold said. In it, the U.S. secretary of defense is urged to include sufficient funding in the 2023 budget request to execute a full-scale operational public-private partnership prototype of an all-hazards medical surge capability. A report is expected no later than March.

This is true accountability by the United States Congress for moving the federal components of this forward, Gold said.

In addition, he said, plans are underway to design and later create an 18- to 25-bed inpatient unit in an already cleared space in University Tower on campus.

The university, he said, has begun bringing together designers and architects to design a health care unit of the future where they can test staffing models, air handling, lighting, sound and other factors in a way thats not possible on paper or in virtual reality. It, too, is part of Project NExT.

The goal would be to have patients in the unit beginning in 2024. We want to make sure our patients, their families and our staff have not only the highest-quality health care but the highest-quality experience, and of course the safest, he said.

That unit, the Munroe-Meyer site prep and the Saddle Creek infrastructure work with the city, Gold said, will send a very powerful message to the federal government and to the private sector here that we are truly shovel-ready and that were moving ahead.
Two out of three persons who attacked a chef at knife point and made away with his mobile phone and a bag at the Ako Adjei Interchange have been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment each by an Accra Circuit Court.

The phone, bag and its content were all valued at GHC440.00.

Dickson Appiah and Kwame Tweneboah Kodua and another known as The Boy, now at large, were said to have asked the complainant, Anthony Atta, what the time was.

The complainant removed his phone to tell them the time and The Boy pulled a knife and pointed it at Atta's stomach and ordered him to surrender his phone and bag and they bolted with the items.

Charged with conspiracy to commit crime and robbery, Appiah and Kodua pleaded not guilty.

The court, presided over by Mrs Evelyn Asamoah, after the trial, found the accused guilty and sentenced them accordingly.

Prosecuting, Chief Inspector Emmanuel Haligah told the court that the complainant worked with a restaurant at Osu but resided at Ashalley Botwe whiles Appiah and Kodua, both drivers' mates, resided at Odorna Lorry Station, near Kwame Nkrumah Circle.

He said on July 28, 2020, at about 2300 hours, the complainant closed from work and was on his way home but on reaching the Ako Adjei Bus Stop, the accused persons asked him what the time was.

The prosecutor said when the complainant removed his phone from his pocket to check the time, Kodua emerged from behind and pointed a knife at his stomach.

Kodua ordered the complainant to hand over his J5 Samsung mobile phone together with his belongings in a bag.

Soon after collecting the items, the accused persons absconded leaving the complainant without money for transportation back home.

At about 2330 hours, a police patrol team received information from the control room at the Police Headquarters that three men were attacking people at knife point at the Ako Adjei Interchange.

The team proceeded to the location and a few meters to the bus stop at Afrikiko Restaurant, the accused were arrested but The Boy escaped.

It said when Appiah and Kodua were searched the complainant's phone and a lighter was found in the pocket of Appiah and Kodua dropped the said knife on seeing the police.

GNA
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers stopped by Wizard Quest in downtown Wisconsin Dells and presented the developing Elm Street Plaza project with a massive boost.

Evers, after talking about the states Tourism Capital Investment Grant program, presented a maximum grant of $3.5 million to the Wisconsin Dells Visitor and Convention Bureau for continued development and maintenance of the citys upcoming attraction. The governor said the $21.9 million program is designed to help shovel-ready tourism projects with promotion, maintenance and bolstering the tourism industry in the state.

This project will help bring folks together downtown, encourage them to stay a little longer, spend a few bucks extra, and that means more jobs and more economic vitality and activity for all the hard-working folks here downtown, Evers said.

Wisconsin Dells Visitor and Convention Bureau President/CEO Romy Snyder expressed her gratitude for the grant before explaining the bureaus role in the city beyond marketing. She said tourism consultant Roger Brooks was invited to the city in 2014 to create a master plan for the downtown area.

One of the key elements that he (Brooks) identified in that plan was a public plaza, Snyder said.

Snyder then pointed out that in 2019, Wizard Quest owner Kevin Ricks requested funding for expansion of his attraction as well as construction of the developing plaza. After approving the request, Snyder said the bureau considered expanding the small plaza and transforming it into a downtown anchor.

The development partnership between the city of Wisconsin Dells, the Wisconsin Dells Visitor and Convention Bureau, and the BID (Business Improvement District) committee of the city, was established and that is what has led us to today, said Snyder.

Wisconsin Department of Administration Secretary Designee Kathy Blumenfeld explained how the program, launched in August 2021, is designed to boost the states attractions and set up future success in the tourism industry. Evers said tourism is a $17.3 billion industry in Wisconsin that supported 150,000 jobs in 2020 despite the COVID-19 pandemic. He went on to explain how, as of September 2021, the state had a more successful tourism industry than Michigan, Minnesota and Illinois.

This might be an opportunity for us to step back and think about, once we open, what else we could do on the plaza to make it appealing, said Snyder.

Snyder said they are confident the current design of the plaza will be successful, but also will be watchful for additional opportunities once it opens.

It gave us an opportunity as a state to invest in the downtown of Wisconsin Dells, said Evers. Its a great concept with a lot of good people behind it that we felt is really going to make a huge impact in Wisconsin Dells. It was one of the best, if not the best, proposals out of all of them. Its really extraordinary.
Northern Irelands First Minister triggered a fresh crisis yesterday by resigning in protest at post-Brexit checks on food arriving from Great Britain.

Paul Givan of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) made the move as part of a long-running row over the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The protocol was agreed by the UK and EU to ensure free movement of trade across the Irish land border would continue after Brexit.

But Unionist politicians have clashed with their colleagues on Northern Irelands ruling executive over its effect on the province.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said the protocol represents an existential threat to the future of Northern Irelands place within the Union.

Paul Givan of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) made the move as part of a long-running row over the Northern Ireland Protocol

The DUPs Edwin Poots, the agriculture minister, ordered a halt to checks on agriculture and food products at Northern Irelands ports on Wednesday.

While checks appeared to be continuing yesterday, Mr Givans resignation means the provinces executive is unable to make significant decisions.

This is because it automatically removes Sinn Feins Michelle ONeill from her post as Deputy First Minister as, under Stormonts power-sharing rules, one cannot hold office without the other.

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said the DUPs decision to withdraw Mr Givan was extremely disappointing.

He added: I urge them to reinstate the First Minister immediately to ensure the necessary delivery of public services for the citizens of Northern Ireland.

While checks appeared to be continuing yesterday, Mr Givans resignation means the provinces executive is unable to make significant decisions

Irish prime minister Micheal Martin said he was deeply concerned and warned the DUP against any action that could damage peace and stability in Northern Ireland.

While other ministers can remain in place, the executive cannot meet or make any significant decisions. This would prevent the coalition from agreeing a three-year budget, which is currently out for public consultation.

A planned official state apology by Mr Givan and Mrs ONeill to victims of historic institutional abuse, scheduled for March, would also not happen, while the status of the remaining Covid-19 restrictions is unclear.

Mrs ONeill suggested the DUP ministers tactics were a stunt ahead of elections to the Northern Ireland Assembly in May.

Yesterdays new crisis came as Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and European Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic met to discuss reducing the Brexit barriers to trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The DUP leadership has repeatedly threatened to bring down the Stormont institutions in protest against the so-called border in the Irish Sea, introduced as part of the protocol.

The Northern Ireland executive was reconstituted only in 2020, following a three-year power-sharing impasse triggered by a row about a botched green energy scheme.
Sarah Jessica Parker's fashion-forward Sex And The City character Carrie Bradshaw is known for her obsession with shoes.

And on Thursday, the 56-year-old actress was revealed as the designer behind many of the eye-catching heels from the faux-vintage label Duchessa Gardini she sported in the revival series And Just Like That...

The star - who launched her own shoe line, SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker, in 2014 - told Vogue that she was initially reluctant to model her designs on the show.

Shoe-lover: Sarah Jessica Parker's fashion-forward Sex and the City character Carrie Bradshaw is known for her obsession with shoes

Surprise! And on Thursday, the 56-year-old actress was revealed as the designer behind many of the eye-catching heels she sported in the revival series And Just Like That...

'There is no SJP collection in Carrie's world; I don't exist there because that would be too weird for me,' Sarah said.

The two-time Emmy Award winner explained that she did not want to be seen as taking advantage of the show and the network but she and her late business partner George Malkemus stepped in to help out the series' costume designers.

'I didn't want it to look like I was exploiting a business opportunity and HBO either, but as we were approaching my first fitting in May of last year, it became clear that there were still some holes Molly and David wanted to fill in terms of the accessories,' Sarah told Vogue.

Holding back: Though the star launched her own shoe line, SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker, in 2014, she told Vogue that she was initially reluctant to model her designs on the show

Molly Rogers, who worked under SATC designer Patricia Field, and Danny Santiago took over costume design for the reboot after Field declined to return.

Styles: The Duchess heels modeled by Sarah in various episodes

The designs by Sarah and George are attributed in the show to the faux Italian footwear company Duchessa Gardini.

'George and I decided to build the shoes that Molly and David needed, but not to use our names,' the Ohio native explained.

The Family Stone star told Vogue that George came up with the fake label's name.

'We were thinking of an old Italian house,' she said. 'Our shoes are all handmade in Italy by third- and fourth-generation shoemakers, so it's possible that you could have had a brand like this.

'If it were any other show, that might not matter, but here the provenance of a shoe matters. People are curious whether the shoes are from the turn of the century or fresh off the runways of Paris.'

Vintage: Sarah said that she and George aimed to put a modern twist on retro styles when it came to designing the shoes; these shoes seem to be from her SJP line

Obsessed: Carrie's love of footwear is such a defining aspect of her character that several plotlines of SATC revolved around the subject

The Duchess heels modeled by Sarah in various episodes of the show include rhinestone studded white mules, hot pink pointed toe pumps adorned with black bows and pearl-embellished fuschia stiletto sandals.

Molly admitted that she was surprised that the show was able to keep the real origins of Carrie's footwear from AJLT's eagle-eyed fans.

'The show is a unicorn on so many levels. You're dealing with an audience that applauds when they see the "Roger" belt again,' she said, referring to the studded wide black belt that Carrie wore in the 2008 Sex and the City movie.

'It's incredible that mysteries still exist even when you have social media and everything is looked at under a microscope. Plus, it was great to have access to a shoe that had people saying, "what is that?"'

Sarah said that she and George aimed to put a modern twist on retro styles when it came to designing the shoes.

'Sometimes you'll look at a vintage piece, and it's exciting, but the proportions are funny,' Sarah said.

Back for more: The series has already been renewed by HBOMax for a second season

'There are parts that are thrilling and wonderful, but then the vamp is off, or the size of the heel is wrong. We wanted to have variety and a sense of vintage periods: '40s, '50s, '60s.'

Carrie's love of footwear is such a defining aspect of her character that several plot lines of SATC revolved around the subject.

Sarah noted the importance of shoes in the original show and its spinoff, telling Vogue, 'The shoes are part of the storytelling and they help us convey a message with fewer words.

'If you watch closely during the scene where Carrie leaves for the funeral home [after Mr Big's death] with Charlotte, she has some shoes by the front door that she puts on.'

Pink heels are never a bad idea: Parker is seen at the premiere of And Just Like That in December 2021 in New York City

She continued, 'They were super comfortable mule slides with a 90mm heel, the kind of shoes she'd grab the newspaper in, and she threw them on because she wasn't thinking; it was second nature.

'Even after her hip surgery, she puts on something sparkly  a Louboutin pair that she also wore in the movie  as if to signal that she's still herself.'

Sarah came to the defense of her character, who has sometimes been mocked for her preoccupation with shoes, once bemoaning, 'I've spent $40,000 on shoes and I have no place to live?'

'[Carrie] has a relationship with her shoes, and while it's not as meaningful as a relationship you'd have with a person or even a book, they have a special place within her life,' the actress explained.

'You can condemn her for it, and that's fine, but we all have things in our life where it's hard to describe why they're so meaningful to us.'

She added, 'It's fun to be a part of something where the clothes and shoes always have so much meaning.'
Disgraced Channel Seven star Andrew O'Keefe will remain behind bars over an alleged choking attack on a woman in his Sydney apartment as he faces a fresh charge.

O'Keefe was due to appear at Central Local Court on Friday but the matter was adjourned for a week after police charged him with possessing a prohibited drug.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Liam Edwards said O'Keefe was also being charged with breaching an apprehended violence order unrelated to the alleged attack.

O'Keefe is accused of choking and punching a woman who allegedly had to bite him to break free during a violent struggle in his city bachelor pad. He claims he acted in self-defence.

The fresh drug possession charge, that he was allegedly in posesssion of 1.5 grams of cannabis, relates to that incident.

O'Keefe did not apply for bail on Friday and will remain bars for at least the next week.

Andrew O'Keefe was hit with a fresh drug charge when he faced Sydney's Central Local Court on Friday. Pictured above in 2021

O'Keefe was arrested in late January and charged over an alleged incident during the afternoon of January 25.

He is charged with two counts of intentionally choking a person without consent, three counts of common assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

At his first court appearance the fallen TV star - appearing in handcuffs via video link - sighed and groaned as he heard he would be kept in a cell awaiting trial.

As he was remanded in custody, he threw his eyes to the sky and yelled: 'No justice - oh god, this is ridiculous. Unbelievable.'

O'Keefe was warned he could face a lengthy custodial sentence if found guilty of the charges against him.

NSW Police allege the 50-year-old, a former White Ribbon ambassador, attacked the 38-year-old woman - described as a business partner - on January 25 after meeting her at his unit on Kent Street in Sydney's CBD.

Andrew O'Keefe (pictured in this court sketch) appeared in court in handcuffs by video link but had his bail application refused and he was kept behind bars

He first faced court on January 28 but his appearance was delayed so his mental health could be assessed by magistrate Robert Williams and O'Keefe's personal psychiatrist, Dr Michael Atherton.

He eventually appeared on a video link from Surry Hills police station where he had been held in a cell the previous night.

Wearing glasses, with cropped, short grey hair, O'Keefe sighed loudly and repeatedly on the court video link, as he stared intently at his screen while he waited for proceedings to get underway.

When asked if he could hear the court, he answered: 'I can, Your Honour, thank you.'

The court was initially closed to the media to protect the identity of the woman allegedly assaulted as details of the case were heard.

When the hearing resumed in public, O'Keefe's lawyer Sharon Ramsden asked for her client to be released on bail to go into residential psychiatric care.

She said O'Keefe had suffered injuries in the alleged incident and would be claiming self-defence when the case was heard.

But the prosecution warned O'Keefe could be facing a lengthy jail term if convicted and dismissed the claims of self-defence.

O'Keefe's lawyer Sharon Ramsden (pictured) asked for the fallen star to be released on bail to go into residential psychiatric care

O'Keefe pictured hosting Channel Seven's Sunrise program

'The only way she was able to break free was to bite the arm of the accused, and that's supported by the visible injuries,' police prosecutor Sergeant Chris Manning told the court.

'The incident went on for a significant period of time.'

O'Keefe was wearing the same bright red trousers and grey zipped sweatshirt that he was seen in while thrashing about wildly in the back of a police paddy wagon the previous day.

Although O'Keefe appeared far calmer, he groaned, whimpered and sighed repeatedly throughout the hearing, and frequently interjected as evidence was heard against him.

At one stage he pointed at his neck and blurted out: 'It was not violent - there was no choke!'

The court heard he was already facing assault charges dating back to June last year and was out on bail at the time of the latest alleged offences.

O'Keefe was said to be suffering a catalogue of mental health issues, including methamphetamine use disorder, severe historical addiction issues which were said to be in remission, mood disturbance, substance abuse disorders and post traumatic stress disorder.

His bid to be released on bail into residential psychiatric care was undermined by a lack of available places for him at a Sydney clinic, the court was told.

O'Keefe's lawyer claimed the alleged victim had turned up 'uninvited' at his Kent Street apartment and caused 'substantial injuries' to him during the fight.

The former host of The Chase Australia and Deal or No Deal will be back in court on February 11.
Agritask, Tel Aviv, Israel-based agtech startup, secured US$26M in funding.

The round was led by Liechtenstein Group with participation from Bridges Israel impact investment fund and Smart Agro Fund, as well as existing investors including The Insuresilience Investment Fund.

The company will use the funding to accelerate development of innovative products, scale up sales and marketing operations worldwide, and attract and onboard key talent to join its international team.

Founded in 2010 by serial entrepreneur Israel Fraier, Agritask provides a SaaS Agronomic Intelligence (AgI) platform that drives transparency, insights, and decision making across the agri-food value chain, focusing primarily on the Food & Beverage and Agricultural Insurance industries. The syastem monitors over 50 different crop types across more than 2 million hectares of land across 35+ countries worldwide. Data captured from multiple sources including a mobile app, remote sensing, weather stations, satellite imagery, sensors, irrigation, machinery, and integrations with more than 70 agronomic systems and enterprise software feeds into Agritasks global agronomic data hub, massive in variety and scale. Through machine learning combined with in-house agronomic expertise, the platform offers insights and models for crop growth, yield estimations, and risk assessment.

Brands such as Starbucks and Heineken use Agritask to minimize risk and predict supply chains, optimize farming operations, and ensure sustainable farming and sourcing practices.

The company is headquartered in Tel Aviv and employs 70 people worldwide with offices in Brazil and Bulgaria.

FinSMEs

03/02/2022
They are not going to hit us, he said he told them. Theyre coming for another house.

After 3 a.m., the neighbors said, the troops loaded up and they heard the whir of the helicopters recede into the distance. Finally, all was quiet and they emerged from their homes and hiding places.

One neighbor, who asked to be identified only by his first name, Ahmed, said that he entered the house targeted in the raid and found the bodies of a woman and a child, and that the woman appeared to have killed them both with an explosive vest.

Abu Muhammad, who had been told to hide by U.S. forces, led his family back to their home and saw the body of a dead child near the damaged house next door.

Rescue workers came to dig the bodies out of the blood-spattered rubble. The neighbors collected other remains they found and buried them nearby.

We have never had such an operation before, said Jamil al-Dadu, 30, who heard the raid from a nearby refugee camp and came in the morning to see what had happened. We did not expect there to be an American one.

Muhammad Haj Kadour reported from Atmeh, Syria, and Ben Hubbard from Beirut, Lebanon. Eric Schmitt contributed reporting from Washington, and Asmaa al-Omar and Hwaida Saad from Beirut.
Europeans and Ukrainians believe that a hybrid strategy  involving military presence on the border, weaponization of energy flows and cyberattacks  will serve him better than a hot war, Ivan Krastev, a political scientist, writes in The Times. By hardening the conflict, Mr. Putin could cohere his opponents. Holding back, by contrast, could have the opposite effect: The policy of maximum pressure, short of an invasion, may end up dividing and paralyzing NATO.

The case for peace through strength

To some commentators, the United States has a moral imperative to do everything it can, short of mounting a ground war in Ukraine, to combat Russian aggression  and not just because Biden made a campaign promise to hold the Putin regime accountable for its crimes.

Weakness makes conflicts more likely, not less likely, Jim Geraghty argues in National Review. If Putin concludes the U.S. and NATO isnt really willing to strain itself to defend applicant country Ukraine, he might conclude the U.S. and other NATO states like Germany wouldnt really come to the aid of member states like Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

A more aggressive response would also serve the interests of the Ukrainian people, Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraines foreign affairs minister, has argued. In a December Foreign Affairs piece, he called on the Biden administration to take three steps to safeguard Ukraines independence:

Make it plain to Russia that Ukraine is a future member of both the European Union and NATO and that its sovereignty is nonnegotiable.

Prepare to enact sanctions in the worst-case scenario of an invasion.

Provide more military assistance to Ukraine, including ammunition and air and missile defenses.

Ukraines goal is simple: peace through strength, he wrote. For now, the United States and its European allies should talk to Putin to win time while strengthening Ukraine to the extent that Russia will simply have no feasible military option for invading it.
And after installing the most recent updates, it looks like some users have come across another problem thats happening because heaven knows why.It all comes down to how the music sounds when Android Auto is running.It goes without saying Android Auto shouldnt alter the audio quality in any way, but users on Googles forums explain that the app actually makes everything sound flat and boring.Theres zero bass, someone says, and while the music sounds properly when Android Auto isnt running, connecting the mobile device to the head unit and launching the app produces this uncanny behavior that nobody knows how to fix.At first glance, this doesnt seem to be an app-specific problem, as the flat sound occurs regardless of the music player thats running on Android Auto.This could be an indication that Googles app is the one to blame for the whole thing, but on the other hand, it could very well be a compatibility issue with certain head units. On the other hand, given everything worked properly before the most recent updates, this seems to signal that one of the latest Android Auto versions introduced a change that somehow doesnt play nice with music players.At this point, Google hasnt said anything about a potential fix, but on the other hand, the glitch doesnt seem to be as widespread as others. In other words, you really shouldnt hold your breath for a fix, especially if it only affects a limited number of users.As for the workarounds, none seems to exist, as all the generic fixes users have turned to produced zero improvements for the quality of the audio on Android Auto.
If you ask me, putting stickers on such a fine machine is a clear indication of bad taste, but to each their own.

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In an effort to get at the roots of structural and historic racism, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving has granted seven Capitol-region organizations $25,000 each to advocate for policy changes in state and municipal housing laws.

This marks the first-time the Hartford Foundation has bankrolled lobbying by nonprofits and community members.

Erika Frank, senior community impact officer at the Hartford Foundation, said fair housing was chosen as the first lobbying funding target because housing has a very long history of inequitable policy.

That has really contributed to the segregation we see in our communities today and the racial wealth gap. There has systemically been exclusion for many people in our community in the housing markets. The root cause is policy, she said.

She added that the funding is really focused on supporting our mission and strategic goals, which include dismantling structural racism and enhancing opportunity.

Frank said adding nonprofit lobbying to the foundations funding cycles has been a long-term goal. That goal started in 2014, when the Hartford Foundation became a registered lobbyist in the state. After experiencing lobbying firsthand and getting to know other lobbying entities, the foundation chose to fund lobbying organizations.

We need to support programmatic intervention in the capacity of nonprofits. We do that. But in order to really ramp up the rate of change we need to see  we know that policy is the next step, she said.

Elysa Gordon, vice president for community impact, said funding policy also will allow members of the community to bring their lived experiences, their voices, more directly into discussions of housing.

The Connecticut Fair Housing Center is one of the funded organizations. The center was among community organizations who last year successfully led a push for statewide Right to Counsel legislation, guaranteeing legal representation for people threatened with eviction. The grant will support advocacy to push for full funding for Right to Counsel.

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We are meeting with tenants to hear about their experiences in housing court once they received an eviction notice, talking about what would have been different if they had had an attorney teaching them how to put together testimony, said Erin Kemple, executive director at the Connecticut Fair Housing Center. We are trying to get people ready to testify and talk with legislators about continuing the Right to Counsel.

Kemple said the full funding, and the community members lived-experience testimony, is crucial to persuade legislators.

One of the things people have to have is a place to live. It affects every party of a persons life, their ability to get health care, where their kids to school, where they go grocery shopping, where they go to church. Someone in danger of being put out of their house risks losing all the positive things that go along with a home, she said.

Another grantee is the Partnership for Strong Communities, which will use its grant to expand the membership of its HomeConnecticut Campaign, an advisory committee originally formed in 2006, which promotes policies that increase access to stable, quality, affordable housing.

Kiley Gosselin, executive director at the Partnership for Strong Communities, said that the board needs more diverse voices, both more racially diverse and more diverse in their housing-related experiences.

It was originally made up of members of other sectors outside of housing advocacy, such as education, business, municipal leadership, Gosselin said. The thinking was over last year and a half is that we need more voices, tenants, tenant advocates, people in the landlord community, to give a wide variety of perspectives, to decide what to do differently, what direction we should be going in.

Other fundees are:

Center for Latino Progress Transport Hartford Academy, to push for Transit Oriented Development in the affordable housing plans of the towns of West Hartford, Newington and Windsor.

Center for Leadership and Justice, which successfully added its No More Slumlords advocacy to Hartfords housing code, to train city residents to advocate for the launch of that licensure program.

Hartford Land Bank, Inc., which will advocate for a state funding mechanism for the redevelopment of small multi-family homes.

Open Communities Alliance, will advocate for the Fair Share Zoning Campaign, which would assign affordable housing goals to every Connecticut municipality.

Regional Planning Association/Desegregate CT, which advocates for Transit Oriented Communities, reducing minimum lot size requirements, and streamlining zoning bureaucracy.

Susan Dunne can be reached at sdunne@courant.com.
Disgusted with the attacks on human rights in the last state legislative session and vowing to be a voice in the room for those not always heard, Zooey Zephyr has decided to run for House District 100.

The district is in urban Missoula and covers the Slant Streets and some of the surrounding area. It was most recently held by Andrea Olsen (D), who has filed to run for Senate District 50.

Zephyr, 33, is a program manager in the Office of the Provost at the University of Montana and has worked at the school for seven years. She has been heavily involved in human rights activism throughout the region and state. She's also done policy work with the city of Missoula.

She is running against Dave Severson and, if elected, would be the first out trans woman to hold public office in Montana.

"If you want to change the conversation, you have to get in the room," Zephyr said. "And for me, that meant running for the state Legislature and that's because that feels like the most important conversation to be a part of to create the kind of changes I think we can really do."

The affordable housing crisis and attacks on human rights pushed her to run for office, she said. She testified during the legislative session against several anti-transgender bills and said she did not feel heard.

"Going and testifying for trans rights and really testifying and begging for your humanity to be seen and then have those pleas fall on closed ears, it made me understand that there are voices that are not listened to in that room and that are not represented in that room," Zephyr said.

Following that and conversations with those close to her, she decided to run for office. Zephyr said she wants to provide justice for those in the community who need it and not just create surface-level signaling.

With a background in municipal policy and administration through UM, Zephyr said that those have "helped me figure out how to take good intentions and create good policy from those intentions."

Good ideas in affordable housing were squashed during the last state legislative session, including inclusionary zoning, she said. That would have given municipalities the ability to mandate some form of permanent affordability into new housing builds.

Housing has been, by far, the most commonly repeated concern during door-to-door campaigning, she said. Rent, property taxes and middle-class families not being able to afford their home anymore are major concerns.

Zephyr rents, and she would be a voice for renters in the state Legislature, she said. She also mentioned health care workers are having a hard time staying in Missoula, too, another common discussion topic while knocking on doors.

She would fight for tenant protections and for cities to be able to have the tools they need to respond to housing crunches, she said. Short-term rentals, such as Airbnbs, are also a concern of hers and she's in favor of stricter ordinances surrounding them.

"The truth I hold at the center of the affordable housing issue is the people who work for jobs in your community should be able to put down roots in that community if they want to," Zephyr said. "That means not being cost-burdened by rent if they choose to rent. It means being able to get into the market if they want to purchase a home."

Zephyr filed as a Democrat and said she would accept that endorsement if she got it. A union employee, she will also seek the endorsement of the Montana Federation of Public Employees.

She already has endorsements from Sen. Ellie Boldman (D-Missoula) as well as Rep. Danny Tenenbaum (D-Missoula). She also has been endorsed by a number of current city councilors as well as Missoula Mayor John Engen and all three Missoula County commissioners. Zephyr is also endorsed by the LGBTQ Victory Fund, which is the only national organization dedicated to election LGTBQ leaders to public office.

Politically, she most closely aligns with democratic socialism, she said, adding she would take the Democratic Socialists of America endorsement if she got it as well.

The federal primary date is June 7 and the general election will be held on Nov. 8. State House of Representative terms are for two years. Legislators are paid $100.48 per day during the legislative session.
HWY 49 two-vehicle collision on HWY 49 at Shaws Flat Road 1-25-22 View Photo

Sonora, CA  Two collisions on two Sonora highways on the same night resulted from illegal driving.

The first crash on Highway 49 at the Shaws Flat Road intersection ended with a DUI arrest. As earlier reported here, the wreck stalled traffic as it occurred during last Wednesday evenings commute. Arrested for impaired driving was 22-year-old DeClan OBryan of Carson City, Nevada in a 1998 Plymouth sedan. The CHP reported that OBryan pulled out in front of 55-year-old Cynthia Ennis of Valley Springs driving a 2008 Scion sedan northbound on the highway at about 55 miles per hour. The two vehicles hit head-on. Thankfully no injuries were reported in the crash. Officers determined OBryan was under the influence of an alcoholic beverage and he was subsequently arrested.

Another collision about three hours later that night on Highway 108 also caused traffic delays. 44-year-old Shanon Hayes of Twain Harte was driving a 2006 Toyota Camry westbound on the highway, west of Via Este. In front of her was 63-year-old Joel Magee of Adelanto, California driving a 2007 Toyota Tacoma pickup. The CHP relayed that Hayes attempted to pass the Tacoma on the right shoulder and lost control, striking the right rear of the truck. The impact caused both vehicles to overturn. Both drivers sustained minor injuries. The CHP noted that drugs and/or alcohol are not suspected in this crash.
There have been nine more deaths from COVID-19 in Queensland recorded on Thursday, as a study shows the virus is more widespread across the state than previously thought.

Of those deaths, one person was in their 60s, two in their 70s, three in their 80s, one in their 90s, and two people were over 100 years old.

Three of those were unvaccinated, one had had a single dose, four had two doses, and one was boosted.

The state recorded 8643 new cases of the virus on Thursday, as Chief Health Officer John Gerrard revealed the virus was even more widespread than authorities had suspected.
Boston, Feb. 02, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gordon Brothers, the global advisory and investment firm, has made a majority investment in Nicole Miller.

The global, eponymous fashion and lifestyle brand was founded by Nicole Miller in 1982 and has become one of the premier names in American fashion. In addition to its womenswear collections, the company has previously partnered with leading licensees in numerous categories, including handbags, shoes, jewelry, fragrance and beauty, and home.

Gordon Brothers will drive further growth of the already highly successful enterprise. The firms key immediate focus will be partnering with Nicole Millers licensees to build the brands e-commerce presence and develop strategic wholesale relationships. Additionally, Gordon Brothers will expand the portfolio of licensees and franchisees internationally by leveraging its global relationships.

We are excited to continue the incredible momentum Nicole Miller and her team has built and grow with current and new partners. We see tremendous opportunity in product extensions and territory expansion, said Tobias Nanda, President, Brands at Gordon Brothers. The brand is poised for growth given its unique position in the market, and as Nicoles new partner, we will use our experience to build upon the legacy she has created.

Having successfully developed the Nicole Miller brand over the last nearly 40 years, I am thrilled for its next chapter with Gordon Brothers, said Nicole Miller. The firm has always understood the value of our business and long-term objectives and will continue to grow and expand the company both in the U.S. and around the world.

Nicole Miller will continue her work with the company she founded as chief creative officer and as a member of the board of directors.

Gordon Brothers provides both short- and long-term capital to clients undergoing transformation. The firm lends against and invests in brands, real estate, inventory, receivables, machinery, equipment and other assets, both together and individually, to provide clients liquidity solutions beyond its market-leading disposition and appraisal services. Gordon Brothers has been actively investing in brands since 2003, partnering with leading companies to help revive and reimagine some of the worlds most iconic brands.

About Gordon Brothers

Since 1903, Gordon Brothers (www.gordonbrothers.com) has helped lenders, operating executives, advisors and investors move forward through change. The firm brings a powerful combination of expertise and capital to clients, developing customized solutions on an integrated or standalone basis across four services areas: valuations, dispositions, operations and investments. Whether to fuel growth or facilitate strategic consolidation, Gordon Brothers partners with companies in the retail, commercial and industrial sectors to put assets to their highest and best use. Gordon Brothers conducts more than $70 billion worth of dispositions and appraisals annually. Gordon Brothers is headquartered in Boston, with over 30 offices across five continents.

About Nicole Miller

Nicole Miller is a global fashion and lifestyle brand headquartered in New York City. Founded in 1982, the iconic brand has grown to be one of the premier names in American fashion. In addition to its celebrated womenswear collections, the company has partnered with leading licensees in numerous fashion and lifestyle categories, including handbags, shoes, jewelry, eyewear, denim, activewear, sleepwear, childrenswear, fragrance and beauty, and home, and the brand can be found online and in over 1,500 specialty and department stores worldwide. Among Nicoles newest ventures; her signature Rose. Please visit www.nicolemiller.com for more information.
Our report today affects up to 2,000 residents, Comptroller Kevin Walsh said in an online news conference on the report. Hundreds of millions of public dollars have gone to one-star nursing homes that are overwhelmingly owned by for-profit companies.

Ratings are made on a five-star system, with one star being the poorest. They are based on issues found during health inspections, quality measures reported by nursing homes and the ratio of nursing staff to residents.

In South Jersey, Oceana Rehabilitation and Nursing Care on Route 9 in Cape May Court House and South Jersey Extended Care on Manheim Avenue in Bridgeton were named. No one from either facility was available for comment Wednesday.State Health Department spokesperson Donna Leusner said Wednesday night the department is reviewing the comptrollers report and discussing its recommendations.

Leusner said since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the department has taken numerous steps to strengthen the resiliency of the industry, including creating a New Jersey Task Force on Long Term Care Quality and Safety, developing a comprehensive testing plan for staff and residents, and requiring long-term care facilities to establish stockpiles of personal protective equipment.

South Jersey nursing homes keeping visitors away from seniors Barbara Makoski would have loved to celebrate her mothers 94th birthday in person last Tues

She added that the Office of Long-Term Care Resiliency, established in February 2021, has made more than 1,000 direct outreaches to the facilities.

The 15 lowest-rated homes are spread throughout the state, Walsh said, and 14 are owned by for-profit companies or private equity groups.

The states long-term care ombudsman, Laurie Brewer, said the government has increased Medicaid reimbursement for nursing homes in the wake of the pandemic, and has provided funds for PPE and more to help facilities cope.

Legislation to increase transparency on who owns nursing homes has yet to pass.

These are private companies, Brewer said. We dont know where all the public dollars are going.

Brewer said ownership groups that own several nursing homes often own other service companies, such as nursing staffing agencies, food service and landscaping companies.

National Guard arrives at Meadowview to assist amid COVID-19 surge New Jersey National Guard teams have been deployed to several long-term care facilities in S

All the companies they are doing business with may be owned by the parent company of the nursing home, Brewer said. When you only look at the profitability of the individual nursing home, it always looks like they are losing money, but they are paying money out to their own owners.

The report did not analyze the demographics of the residents in the 15 lowest-performing homes for racial or ethnic backgrounds, but Brewer said the worst homes are more likely to take younger disabled patients.

Many are large facilities, including Woodland Behavioral and Nursing Center (formerly Andover Subacute and Rehab II) in Andover, Sussex County, which is the largest in the state with a capacity of about 500, she said.

Andover was in the news early in the pandemic, when 17 bodies were found piled in a morgue there in April 2020, and government authorities found seriously deficient conditions. Lawsuits over the conditions there continue.

But its problems predated the pandemic. In 2017, the Andover facility agreed to pay to the United States and the State of New York $888,000 to resolve allegations that it provided materially substandard or worthless nursing services to some patients, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Jersey.

They do seem to be facilities that have perhaps a larger percentage of younger disabled people and post psychiatric hospitalizations, Brewer said.

State inspections have found serious health and safety issues year after year, Walsh said.

None of the 15 ... have made sustained improvements, yet the Medicaid program continues to pay, Walsh said.

The report recommends that change.

The department of Human Services and the Department of Health we recommend work together to get these nursing homes to improve the quality of care or risk losing Medicaid funds, Walsh said.

Withholding Medicaid funds may require state agencies to work with the federal Medicaid program, Walsh acknowledged.

Its a massive tool  leverage the state can and should use, Walsh said. New Jersey taxpayers should not be funding nursing homes that are disproportionately likely to put people in harms way.

The comptrollers data dashboard at nj.gov/comptroller gives a variety of information on the homes rated at just 1 star out of 5 for extended periods.

Walsh said his office is primarily a watchdog, looking out for the interests of New Jersey residents and taxpayers. Part of its job is to act as the inspector general for the Medicaid program in the state, he said, to root out waste, fraud and abuse.

Medicaid is the single biggest nursing home care payer in New Jersey and nationally, Walsh said.

I want to emphasize the criticism here is not of the people who work in long-term care, who are the unsung heroes, Brewer said. They are showing up in the face of significant adversity.

In facilities like this, conditions are not just bad for the residents, they are also bad for the staff.
Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose, Costa Rica [ SJO / MROC ]

If you are planning to travel to San Jose or any other city in Costa Rica, this airport locator will be a very useful tool. This page gives complete information about the Juan Santamaria International Airport along with the airport location map, Time Zone, lattitude and longitude, Current time and date, hotels near the airport etc... Juan Santamaria International Airport Map showing the location of this airport in Costa Rica. San Jose Airport IATA Code, ICAO Code, exchange rate etc... is also provided.

San Jose Airport Info:

San Jose Airport IATA Code: SJO San Jose Airport ICAO Code: MROC Latitude : 9.99361 Longitude : -84.2089 City : San Jose Country : Costa Rica World Area Code : 110 Airport Type : Medium San Jose Airport Address / Contact Details :

Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica Airport Type : Public Owner : Government of Costa Rica Operator : Aeris Holdings Costa Rica under ADC & HAS and Andrade Gutierrez Concesores No. Of Terminals : 2 Timezone : America/Costa_Rica Juan Santamaria International Airport Timezone : GMT -06:00 hours Current time and date at Juan Santamaria International Airport is 20:46:31 PM (CST) on Thursday, Sep 22, 2022

Looking for information on Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose, Costa Rica? Know about Juan Santamaria International Airport in detail. Find out the location of Juan Santamaria International Airport on Costa Rica map and also find out airports near to San Jose. This airport locator is a very useful tool for travelers to know where is Juan Santamaria International Airport located and also provide information like hotels near Juan Santamaria International Airport, airlines operating to Juan Santamaria International Airport etc... IATA Code and ICAO Code of all airports in Costa Rica. Scroll down to know more about Juan Santamaria International Airport or San Jose Airport, Costa Rica.

Juan Santamaria International Airport Map - Location of Juan Santamaria International Airport Load Map Costa Rica - General Information Country Formal Name Republic of Costa Rica Country Code CR Capital San Jose Currency Colon (CRC)

 1 CRC = 0.002 USD

 1 USD = 630.943 CRC

 1 CRC = 0.002 EUR

 1 EUR = 621.065 CRC

 More CRC convertion rates Tel Code +506 Top Level Domain .cr

Major airlines flying to Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose

This page provides all the information you need to know about Juan Santamaria International Airport, Costa Rica. This page is created with the aim of helping travelers and tourists visiting Costa Rica or traveling to San Jose Airport. Details about San Jose Airport given here include Juan Santamaria International Airport Code - IATA Code (3 letter airport codes) and ICAO Code (4 letter airport codes)

Coordinates of San Jose Airport - Latitude and Longitude (Lat and Long) of Juan Santamaria International Airport

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General information about Costa Rica where Juan Santamaria International Airport is located in the city of San Jose. General information include capital of Costa Rica, currency and conversion rate of Costa Rica currency, Telephone Country code, exchange rate against US Dollar and Euro in case of major world currencies etc...

SJO - Juan Santamaria International Airport IATA Code and MROC - Juan Santamaria International Airport ICAO code
Police say they arrested three people after finding them in possession of a stolen catalytic converter in this Tustin, Calif., neighborhood. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

California City Cracking Down on Catalytic Converter Thefts

LAKE FOREST, Calif.As catalytic converter theft rises across the nation, the city of Lake Forest unanimously passed a new ordinance on Feb. 1 prohibiting the unlawful possession of the exhaust emission control device.

Under the new order, the possession of a converter without proof of ownership will be a misdemeanor and result in a $1,000 fine and up to six months in jail.

I love it, Councilman Scott Voigts said during a Feb. 1 council meeting, where the issue was discussed. Anything we can do to help law enforcement put criminals behind bars and stop the thieving in front of our houses  I think its a great idea.

Stealing catalytic converters has become a common trend as it can take less than 10 minutes to remove one from the underside of a parked car.

Additionally, some cities have lessened penalties for such crimes while scrap metal yards are paying as much as $1,000 for the stolen converters for their valuable materials such as platinum and palladium.

Additionally, manufacturers often exclude serial numbers when making the car part, adding another layer of ease for the criminal activity.

Its easy money, Lake Forest City Attorney Matthew Richardson said during the meeting. That, coupled with the difficulty in prosecuting criminals for these thefts makes it a very convenient crime.

Meanwhile, victims end up paying up to $3,000 to replace the stolen converter.

According to the Orange County Sheriffs Department, approximately 160 converters reported stolen across the nation in 2021 happened in Lake Forest.

The Los Angeles Police Department reported over 5,000 stolen auto parts last year, many of which were catalytic converters.

According to the city council report, the National Insurance Bureau of Crime, a nonprofit based out of Illinois that works to combat insurance fraud, reported that approximately 7,000 catalytic converters were stolen nationwide in 2019.

In 2020, the number had increased to approximately 27,000, according to the report, and had nearly matched that amount just in the first five months of 2021.

The new ordinance in Lake Forest is expected to go into effect as early as next month.
A bill in the state Legislature that could strip away the parental rights of some people in prison continues to provoke opposition from family advocates despite an effort to narrow the situations under which inmates could lose those rights.

The Republican-sponsored legislation allows for courts to use a persons incarceration status or likelihood of being behind bars in proceedings seeking to terminate a persons parental rights.

Critics, which include the Department of Children and Families, the Ho-Chunk Nation and state social workers, say the bill is a departure from long-established rules for taking away parental rights that would deepen racial disparities in the criminal justice system.

In response to those critiques, sponsors amended the bill last month outlining the types of crimes and other conditions that would trigger eligibility for losing parental rights. Currently, incarceration status is one of many factors courts weigh in determining whether to strip someone of parental rights.

This is kind of a road map for the courts. Right now they dont have that, Sen. Duey Stroebel, R-Saukville, a co-sponsor of the bill (SB 595), said at a hearing on the proposed amendment Wednesday.

Under the amendment, only those who meet all of the following requirements would be eligible to lose parental rights:

The child is 14 years old or younger at the time a petition to terminate parental rights is filed.

The parent has failed to maintain a parental relationship with the child.

There is no appeal pending for the parents conviction.

The person has been convicted of certain crimes against children or crimes against life and bodily security, which includes offenses ranging from homicide and sexual assault to witness intimidation and violating court orders.

The person will be incarcerated for more than 50% of the childs first 18 years.

The amendment did nothing to assuage critics opposition to the bill.

DCF, which has lobbied against the bill, has said it could violate childrens rights to familial association. The agency also calls the bill redundant since incarceration is already a factor weighed by authorities in parental rights proceedings, along with abandonment, abuse, incest and failure to assume parental responsibility.

The widespread impact of this could be absolutely chilling, said Wendy Henderson, an administrator for DCFs Division of Safety and Permanence.

The bills language on incarcerated parents maintaining a relationship with the child doesnt consider factors beyond an inmates control, especially with prison visitation being limited by the pandemic, Henderson noted.

To be able to make that demonstration of parental responsibility becomes very very difficult for an incarcerated parent, Henderson said.

Another co-sponsor of the bill, Rep. Barbara Dittrich, R-Ocomomowoc, said the amended legislation was introduced after talks with groups like the State Bar of Wisconsin, which supports the measure.

The point is not to break up families, Dittrich said in an interview. If we have a parent thats incarcerated and has no interest in the child, and the childs in a situation that needs permanency, we want the child to have that hope of stability and permanency in a stable home.

Parents in prison

Of the nearly 20,000 people in the Wisconsin prison system, 47% of them have dependents, according to the state Department of Corrections.

With Black, Latino and indigenous people disproportionately in Wisconsin prisons, they, too, would disproportionately be affected by the new guidelines for ending parental rights, said Amanda Merkwae, a legislative adviser for DCF.

When you are allowing (termination of parental rights) based on the grounds of incarceration when there might not be other abuse or neglect that may have occurred with that particular parent, it unnecessarily severs the connection between a child and their family, and exacerbates the disproportionality that exists in both the criminal, legal system and child welfare system, Merkwae said at Wednesdays hearing.

Plenty of programs already exist in Wisconsin prisons aimed at boosting parenting skills for inmates and providing camps for the children of inmates, said Wendy Volz Daniels, a social worker who has worked with children and families in parental rights cases.

What we need is providing more services to these children who arent really visible, Daniels said. We need to have better public policy that enhances the capacity of developing this relationship further and helping incarcerated folks to have all the tools at their disposal.

The Department of Corrections did not respond to a request for comment and has not registered a stance on the legislation.

Tribal opposition

Representatives of the Ho-Chunk Nation condemned the legislation, saying it could increase the likelihood of native children being taken from their parents and placed with white families.

Such placement can produce mental health problems for children, including increased risk for depression, addiction and suicide, said Scott Seifert, the attorney general for the Ho-Chunk Nation.

These children grow up looking in the mirror and knowing in their hearts there is something different about them, Seifert said. Without their tribal community there to support them as they go through life, they are simply going through the motions.

The tribe has been joined in opposition to the legislation by the Wisconsin Council of Churches, the American Civil Liberties Union and the League of Women Voters.

Other bills regarding parental rights are under consideration by the legislature. One bill sponsored by Dittrich (AB 626), could put a child in protective services or strip parental rights if the child is prenatally exposed to drugs or alcohol and the parent is not seeking treatment for their addiction.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size In the history of popular culture, few images are as iconic as those of the so-called king of rock and roll Elvis Aaron Presley. With more than half a billion records sold globally since 1956, he is the best-selling solo artist in music history  his place in the history books feels assured. And yet since his death in 1977, at the age of just 42, Elvis seems to survive mostly as an intangible image (the vast trove of black and white still photographs that capture his astonishing beauty), and also in a genre of Elvis films, such as Blue Hawaii, Kissin Cousins and Girls! Girls! Girls!, which capture his swivelling hips and unrivalled charm. Elvis Presley in concert: his widow says he was always anxious to please his fans. Credit:AP What you saw is what you got on stage, Elvis former wife, Priscilla, says. You saw his personality. Sometimes hed talk to the audience and was so transparent about things. He always had a lot of energy. But he was also a very caring man, very concerned about people. And he took care of his family. Elvis, Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley, 1970. Credit:Frank Carroll/Sygma  EPE. He cared naturally, and wanted to please his audience so much, he would visit his fans at the gates [of Graceland, the familys home] because he wanted to thank them for being fans, Priscilla adds. Thats why people loved the show because you got to see a side of Elvis that people loved to see. Elvis: Direct from Graceland, a curated exhibition of more than 300 artefacts from Presleys private and professional life, opens next month at the Bendigo Art Gallery (with, COVID willing, Priscilla in attendance). The artefacts range from the eccentric  his first job application, and his first-grade crayon box  to the very personal, such as his wedding tuxedo, Priscillas wedding dress and his military uniforms.

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His stage costumes  the glittery jumpsuits that became one of his signature styles  are there, of course. And his iconic guitars. His 1976 red Bicentennial custom Harley-Davidson motorbike is there. And the bright red 1960 MG convertible from the movie Blue Hawaii. Elvis Presleys 1960 MG roadster used in the film Blue Hawaii. Credit: EPE. Graceland The exhibition was curated by Angie Marchese, the vice-president of archives and exhibits at Elvis Presley Enterprises, together with Bendigo Art Gallery, and with oversight from Priscilla. The full archive contains more than 1.5 million items. Drawing 300 from that trove to capture the essence of Elvis life was a challenging task, Priscilla says. When I see them on display, it just gives me chills sometimes, Priscilla says. His father [Vernon Presley] is the one who saved everything. Everything. Not one thing was let out of his hands because he didnt want anybody to take anything and sell it. Elvis Presley shopping at Lanskys clothing store on Beale Street, Memphis, 1956. The Bendigo exhibition charts the changing styles of the man who became The King. Whats so crazy is that he had things that I havent seen, or have been in storage for such long periods of time, Priscilla adds. To know that Im sharing Elvis, stories, and artefacts that he owned, is great. I want to share them because I want people to know who Elvis was, how he lived, what he bought, what was given to him, his favourite things. Brooklyn-born Priscilla Beaulieu met Elvis in the late 1950s, when she was a teenager and he was 24. The couple were married in 1967 after she turned 21.

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Elvis, already a star, would go on to win three Grammys and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award at just 36. Songs such as Heartbreak Hotel, Love Me Tender and Jailhouse Rock, written specifically for the 1957 movie of the latter, were the tip of an iceberg of smash hits. Elvis-mania, like Beatlemania, was a byproduct of a wild era. Elvis and Priscilla Presley on their wedding day in 1967. Now 76, Priscilla has agreed to sit down and discuss Elvis to support the upcoming exhibition. She describes him as innately shy, something that she understands is not easily reconciled with the stage showman remembered by his fans. People dont believe it when I say he was shy by nature, but he pretty much closed himself off to the world, she says. He had his guys who were around him, not only to protect him, but to be there for him, to fend for him, and that was basically our world, she says. And he didnt want to mingle that much because he just felt better with people that he knew. So, he would never go out. Priscilla Presley. Privately, Priscilla says Elvis was self-deprecating. He never bragged, he loved his fans and wanted to do a good show and was nervous when he didnt do a good show, she says. As a human being, he was pretty special. I asked him one time, how do you know when you sing a song, how do you know the fans are enjoying it? Because sometimes they would be really quiet, listening to every word. But he said, when they start yawning, I know I am not doing my job. So he made sure that never happened. Thats why he put on such a great show.

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Their marriage lasted just seven years, and Elvis died in 1977, four years after the couple split. And yet in the years that followed, Priscilla became the custodian of his legacy. I take it as a big responsibility, she says. Im fulfilling dreams that Elvis Presley was never able to fulfil, and Im straightening out the falsities that people thought about Elvis. Its just about keeping his legacy true to who he was and I do feel a big responsibility to that. We dont have many of us left any more, and I take it very seriously, she adds. Im very choosy about what I do. I want to represent him in the way that he would represent himself, or maybe in the way that he didnt have the opportunity to. Elvis Presley strolls the grounds of his Graceland estate, 1957. Credit:Michael Ochs  EPE. Graceland That responsibility also extended to Graceland, the eight-bedroom house on a 5.7 hectare estate in Memphis, Tennessee, where their daughter Lisa-Marie Presley was born. As is often the case with such places, the architecture of Graceland has almost talismanic properties. For Elvis fans, it endures as something of a shrine to the king. Priscillas memories of it are different. I had to give it up, to be honest with you, and it was the hardest thing I had to do, to open up Graceland, she says. To me it is still a private home.

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After Elvis death in 1977, there were concerns the estate did not have enough money to continue paying for the upkeep of Graceland. So, rather than lose the property, Priscilla brought in investment manager Jack Soden to take over Graceland and operate it as a tourist attraction. It was not an easy decision, she says. But her mind was swayed when she sat in a meeting with the accountants and bankers. The accountant said, well, we just have to sell Elvis. Those words, Ill never forget. And I said, that will never happen, we are not selling Graceland, he never wanted to sell it, this was the home he loved, and that he bought for his mother. Its not being sold. Priscilla lives in Los Angeles now, but visits Graceland frequently. I was just there and when I go in, its like I never left, she says. Everything is exactly the same. I do feel his spirit is there. There is a calmness. Its beautiful, and its respectful. Graceland  at least, the public-facing side of the estate  is also home to the archive of items from which the upcoming exhibition is drawn. Elvis Presley backstage at the New Frontier Hotel, Las Vegas, 1956. Most of those are either Elvis own possessions or surviving pieces from his stage and screen career. The bright red 1960 MG convertible from the movie Blue Hawaii is undoubtedly the biggest exhibit, but not the most personal. That might be the pearl-encrusted white silk wedding gown (with accompanying rhinestone tiara and one-metre tulle veil) in which Priscilla married Elvis. His suit, a black paisley silk brocade tuxedo, made by one of the MGM Studios tailors, Lambert Marks, is also on display.

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Beijing Continues Coercion Campaign Banning Imports From 10th Australian Abattoir

Beijing has suspended imports from a tenth Australian meat abattoir, citing a recent COVID-19 outbreak that saw 140 individuals infected with the virus.

The abattoir in Naracoorte in South Australia is run by meat processing giant Teys, who received notification of the suspension on Jan. 29 from the General Administration of Customs of the Peoples Republic of China.

In mid-January, Teys was grappling with an outbreak of COVID-19 that saw supermarket giant Woolworths briefly suspend meat processing at the Naracoorte site.

Regarding the China trade ban, John Langbridge, corporate affairs general manager at Teys, said they had not costed the potential loss in trade.

I wouldnt have any idea at this stage, and it is entirely in the hands of the Australian and Chinese governments, Langbridge said in comments obtained by The Advertiser.

Historically, other plants that have been temporarily suspended to China out of Australia are still waiting to get back on the list.

The ban on Teys comes after an Oct. 18 suspension of an export license belonging to Queensland-based Australian Country Choice (ACC).

Chinese authorities supposedly detected a chemical substance used to treat bacterial infections in dogs in ACCs products.

The reasons provided to Department of Agriculture Water and Environment (DAWE) from Chinese authorities was that a frozen product received in China had failed a random sampling test for chloramphenicol on beef products inspected at the entry port of Ningbo, ACC CEO Anthony Lee said in a statement to The Epoch Times.

In the absence of a China licence, the company will now focus on alternative markets.

Other companies to have had their meat exports suspended include Queenslands Kilcoy Pastoral Company, Beef City (owned by JBS Group), John Dee, and Meramist; New South Wales Northern Cooperative Meat Company; and Victorias Australian Lamb Company and JBS Brooklyn.

The latest episode continues an ongoing economic coercion campaign by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) against Australian exports, which started in April 2020 after Foreign Minister Marise Payne publicly called for an investigation into the origins of COVID-19.

Coercion measures deployed included arbitrary border testing and inspections, the imposition of tariffs, unwarranted delays in listing export establishments, and the issuing of import licenses.

Businesses in the barley, coal, cotton, hay, logs, meat, rock lobsters and wine industries have all been impacted, subsequently forcing them to diversify into other markets.
Chinese Communist Partys head Xi Jinping (center) and lawmakers stand for the anthem during the closing session of the rubber-stamp legislatures conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, on March 11, 2021. (Kevin Frayer/Getty Images)

The Chinese Regime Will Not Change Its Grand Strategy

Commentary

States possess grand strategies, that is, how they define their interests, the threats to those interests, and the means that they employ to advance their interests in the face of threats.

Additionally, states make strategic choices to address the threats they face and to advance their interests in the ever-changing circumstances of international politics. Usually this is done by making modest changes such as a making a doctrinal change, establishing a new base or alliance relationship, building new weapons systems, or investing in new weapons technologies.

However, at times states execute major grand strategic changes to address threats. They undertake such a dramatic change, typically because the threat they face has become greater, even an existential threat.

In 1914, Britain made a major break with its grand strategic past when it decided to send its army and so made a continental commitment to support Belgium and France against the German invasion.

Likewise, the 1917 decision by President Woodrow Wilson to enter World War I on the side of the United Kingdom, France, and Russia was a major break with traditional U.S. grand strategy, which, like Great Britain, had avoided making continental commitments.

When the United States reversed course about two years later, when the U.S. Congress rejected the League of Nations Treaty and the Anglo-Franco-American Treaty of Guarantee, it made a similarly major step. However, such changes are rare in international politics, especially for hegemonic states.

While the grand strategies of all states are important, those of the great powers are especially so since their decisions have an exaggerated impact on international stability and the likelihood of war and peace. The Chinese regime possesses a grand strategy of domination and seeks to replace the United States from its position in international politics. The possibility of intense security competition, the new cold war between the United States and China, or conflict between them, compels the contemplation of whether China may execute a grand strategic change. If it could back away from its hegemonic ambition, this would allow a potential confrontation to be avoided.

Due to Chinas prodigious growth, the global audience needs to understand Chinas motivation and anticipated path in the world, and to have some conception of the degree to which Chinas grand strategy is likely to remain on its current course or may be expected to change. Comprehending why China changes its grand strategy is critical for understanding its actions and direction in international politics.

Journalists and others film next to a large screen showing Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the newly built Museum of the Communist Party of China, in Beijing, on June 25, 2021. (Kevin Frayer/Getty Images)

Unfortunately for international stability, the Chinese seldom change their grand strategy. Historically, this is because China has been the hegemon in East Asia. Only rarely has the external and internal situation combined to cause the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to focus on its survival.

However, the Chinese abruptly changed their grand strategy in the Ming and Manchu dynasties, where at different times, they abandoned their hegemony and executed a grand strategic volte face, abandoning exploration and trade to turn inward as they did after Admiral Zheng Hes last voyage of exploration and conquest in the 15th century. In these cases, the Chinese retreated to focus on stabilizing their rule.

Moreover, there have also been near misses, circumstances that have almost brought about a grand strategic change but did not, as both the existential internal and external threats were not present, such as in the turbulent Boxer Rebellion (18981900), and the period of instability that surrounded the Tiananmen uprising of 1989.

Based on Chinas history, for China to change its course, it must face a major domestic threat at the elite level. This is a dynastic challenge and may be thought of as a domestic peer competitor to the imperial regime. Second, the domestic peer challenge must occur at the same time that there is the threat from an external peer competitor. In each instance, the Chinese retreated when they faced peer competition simultaneously at the domestic and international levels. The combination of a challenge from a domestic peer competitor as well as external peer competitor is required to make China change its grand strategy.

China now may face this situation again. The United States, in conjunction with its ally Japan and with support from India, will serve as the external peer competitors. What is lacking is an internal threat at a sufficiently significant level. Given Xi Jinpings grip on power, including the success of his anti-corruption and other campaigns at targeting his enemies, a successful internal threat is not likely. Only if the Chinese regime faced a challenge from the United States and its allies, and there was a dynastic struggle, might China change course and conflict, cold or hot, be avoided.

The former might occur, and it is incumbent upon the Biden administration to reassure a Japan concerned about this administrations path, and to bring India into an alliance. However, the latter, a dynastic struggle, is less likely to occur. Xi is unlikely to be dethroned. Accordingly, the United States and its allies must steel themselves to face the threat from the Chinese regime. The CCP will not change its strategic course. Indeed, from its perspective, it should not as it has been an unalloyed successrising to a position to challenge America with the active support of many in the United States and the West. For the United States and its allies, there is not going to be a quick or simple solution to the threat posed by the Chinese regime.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Scott County Sheriffs officials released the name of the armed man who took his own life Tuesday after refusing to surrender his employers company pickup.

The man is identified as Robert John Ewoldt, 41, of Davenport.

Scott County Sheriffs Major Shawn Roth said Tuesday that the mans employer, US Infrastructure Company, or USIC, was attempting to terminate the man but he refused to return the companys vehicle, a Chevrolet Colorado pickup marked with USIC decals.

Sheriffs deputies were able to locate the pickup and attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the pickup as it traveled south in 24000 block of Utica Ridge Road, which is also 210th Avenue in that area. Because the man was in possession of a firearm, a felony stop was initiated.

The man refused to stop for deputies. A Scott County Sheriffs deputy deployed a spike strip at the intersection of 210th Street and 210th Avenue. One tire was punctured. The vehicle continued southbound on Utica Ridge Road.

The vehicle suddenly and unexpectedly ran off the roadway to the east, entering the ditch and striking a tree just north of 7721 Utica Ridge Road in Davenport. Ewoldt was found unresponsive in the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene by a self-inflicted gunshot.
Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose, Costa Rica [ SJO / MROC ]

If you are planning to travel to San Jose or any other city in Costa Rica, this airport locator will be a very useful tool. This page gives complete information about the Juan Santamaria International Airport along with the airport location map, Time Zone, lattitude and longitude, Current time and date, hotels near the airport etc... Juan Santamaria International Airport Map showing the location of this airport in Costa Rica. San Jose Airport IATA Code, ICAO Code, exchange rate etc... is also provided.

San Jose Airport Info:

San Jose Airport IATA Code: SJO San Jose Airport ICAO Code: MROC Latitude : 9.99361 Longitude : -84.2089 City : San Jose Country : Costa Rica World Area Code : 110 Airport Type : Medium San Jose Airport Address / Contact Details :

Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica Airport Type : Public Owner : Government of Costa Rica Operator : Aeris Holdings Costa Rica under ADC & HAS and Andrade Gutierrez Concesores No. Of Terminals : 2 Timezone : America/Costa_Rica Juan Santamaria International Airport Timezone : GMT -06:00 hours Current time and date at Juan Santamaria International Airport is 20:46:55 PM (CST) on Thursday, Sep 22, 2022

Looking for information on Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose, Costa Rica? Know about Juan Santamaria International Airport in detail. Find out the location of Juan Santamaria International Airport on Costa Rica map and also find out airports near to San Jose. This airport locator is a very useful tool for travelers to know where is Juan Santamaria International Airport located and also provide information like hotels near Juan Santamaria International Airport, airlines operating to Juan Santamaria International Airport etc... IATA Code and ICAO Code of all airports in Costa Rica. Scroll down to know more about Juan Santamaria International Airport or San Jose Airport, Costa Rica.

Juan Santamaria International Airport Map - Location of Juan Santamaria International Airport Load Map Costa Rica - General Information Country Formal Name Republic of Costa Rica Country Code CR Capital San Jose Currency Colon (CRC)

 1 CRC = 0.002 USD

 1 USD = 630.943 CRC

 1 CRC = 0.002 EUR

 1 EUR = 621.065 CRC

 More CRC convertion rates Tel Code +506 Top Level Domain .cr

Major airlines flying to Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose

This page provides all the information you need to know about Juan Santamaria International Airport, Costa Rica. This page is created with the aim of helping travelers and tourists visiting Costa Rica or traveling to San Jose Airport. Details about San Jose Airport given here include Juan Santamaria International Airport Code - IATA Code (3 letter airport codes) and ICAO Code (4 letter airport codes)

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In a spy game like the Cold War, Chinas threat is mainstream. Both British and American intelligence have called out China. And news regarding a defector from China is raising eyebrows. Can a rocket scientist from China with top secrets on its hypersonic weapons change the landscape of this spy war between the United States and China? And have we found the antidote to the nuclear poison?

I spoke with Olivia Enos from the Heritage Foundation on how to approach the Olympics starting this week. She gives her take on the issues of China hosting, what we can do to support athletes attending the event, and why Americans should care about Chinas human rights abuses.
DENVER, Feb. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) Off-Center is excited to announce the rescheduled dates for the world premiere immersive production, Theater of the Mind, co-created by creator of the Broadway hit American Utopia, David Byrne, and writer Mala Gaonkar, and premiering in Denver August 31 through December 18, 2022.

Mala Gaonkar and former Talking Heads leader David Byrnes Theater of the Mind will take over a massive warehouse space in Denver later this year. Previews for the world-premiere show are set to begin on Aug 31, 2022. (Catalina Kulczar, provided by Denver Center)

Theater of the Mind will take place in a 15,000-square-foot historic warehouse within the adaptive reuse campus of York Street Yards in the Clayton neighborhood. Theater of the Mind will take audience members through an immersive journey of self-reflection, discovery, and imagination, inspired by and grounded in neuroscience. Theater of the Mind is led by a Guide whose stories are inspired by the creators' lives. Audiences will explore how they perceive the world through sensory experiments that reveal the inner mysteries of the brain.

"It is super exciting to premiere this show with the Denver Center for the Performing Arts," said co-creator David Byrne. "I hope participants will be as surprised by these experiences, just as I have beenit really is a new kind of theater."

"The DCPA is thrilled to premiere this groundbreaking production, finally! After a long pandemic delay, we can't wait for Denver audiences to be the first to experience it," said Charlie Miller, DCPA Off-Center Curator. "Theater of the Mind is a one-of-a-kind production that combines science, design, and storytelling into a mind-altering and entertaining experience."

Tickets for Theater of the Mind will go on will go on pre-sale to all DCPA subscribers May 6 and on public sale May 20. Theater of the Mind will begin previews on August 31, 2022 and will open on September 13, 2022. Sign up to receive more information and first access to tickets at theateroftheminddenver.com.

DCPA Off-Center

in association with

Nate Koch, LeeAnn Rossi, and the Arbutus Foundation

present

Theater of the Mind

Created by David Byrne and Mala Gaonkar

Directed by Andrew Scoville

August 31 - December 18, 2022

York Street Yards, 3887 Steele Street, Denver, CO 80205

Inspired by both historical and current lab research, Theater of the Mind takes you on an immersive journey inside how we see and create our worlds. Co-created by Talking Heads frontman and artist David Byrne and writer Mala Gaonkar, the show uses stories from their own lives to shape a narrative you'll see, feel, taste and hear.

Witness the wonders of your mind for yourself as you follow The Guide through a spectacular 15,000-square-foot installation with 16 fellow audience members. As you explore intriguing environments, participate in a narrative and try a series of sensory experiments, your Guide will question how beliefs, memories and even our identities are less fixed than we think.

Caution: the brain may wander. Side effects may include a distrust of your own senses, a disorientation of self, and a mild to severely good time. You may not be who you think you are. But we're all in it together.

ABOUT OFF-CENTER

Off-Center produces unexpected theatrical experiences that put the audience at the center of the story. What began in 2010 as a small theatrical test kitchen has grown into a signature line of programming for the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, credited with bringing immersive theatre to Colorado and helping establish Denver as a national hub for immersive art.

Among Off-Center's large-scale productions that have garnered local and national praise are: Sweet & Lucky created with New York-based Third Rail Projects, Camp Christmas with artist Lonnie Hanzon, The Last Defender with The House Theatre of Chicago, Perception featuring live music by Tom Hagerman of DeVotchKa, and a 360-degree staging of The Wild Party. With support from the Doris Duke and Wallace foundations, Off-Center has been recognized as a leader in developing new programming that attracts new audiences. www.denvercenter.org

Theater of the Mind / Denver Center for the Performing Arts Contact:

Brittany Gutierrez, [email protected]

David Byrne / Grandstand Media Contact:

Kate Jackson, [email protected]

Follow DCPA on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook

Follow Theater of the Mind on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook

SOURCE Off-Center
You have questions. I have some answers.

Q: Weve been hearing for 10 years that Leonardo DiCaprio will star in the film version of The Devil in the White City. Its been a long time coming. Is this movie going to be made? Hope so!

A: Still in the works is a screen adaptation of Erik Larsons nonfiction account of murder and the 1893 Worlds Fair, though not quite as originally imagined. As Deadline has reported, DiCaprio acquired the rights to the book in 2010, with an eye toward a feature film directed by Martin Scorsese, a frequent DiCaprio collaborator. But in 2019, the project shifted into a planned miniseries for Hulu, with DiCaprio as an executive producer along with Scorsese. There have been reports about possible casting from time to time since then. Most recently, earlier in January, Keanu Reeves was said to be in negotiations for the series; it hasnt been said whom he would play.

Q: We always watched The Big Bang Theory and now enjoy watching Young Sheldon. We recall an episode of Big Bang featuring Sheldons twin sister but cant recall any episode about a brother. Did we miss something?

A: Yes. Jerry OConnell played Georgie Cooper in several episodes of The Big Bang Theory starting in the 11th season in 2018. He was the successful owner of a chain of tire stores; Young Sheldon, where Montana Jordan plays young Georgie, has shown the characters business savvy.

Q: Sometime in January, at the end of Days of Our Lives, there was a note that it was in memory of someone (I think female). It went by so fast that I didnt catch the name. I was wondering if someone on the cast had passed away.

A: I believe you saw a dedication to Elizabeth Betsy Snyder, who had been a writer on Days for a decade. The Emmy winner passed away following a brief illness last November. She had also written for other daytime dramas including Another World, General Hospital and The Bold and the Beautiful.

Q: I was a big fan of the show Fringe and wonder if there was ever any talk about the possibility of a movie version? I would also like to know how come it doesnt appear on any of the streaming services like Amazon or Netflix?

A: To answer your last question first, you can find Fringe on IMDb TV and on HBO Max. While fans often long for a return of a favorite show as a movie or another series, I have not found any discussion of Fringe that makes that seem likely.

Do you have a question or comment about entertainment past, present and future? Write to Rich Heldenfels, P.O. Box 417, Mogadore, OH 44260, or brenfels@gmail.com. Letters may be edited. Individual replies are not guaranteed.
Reporter

Mary Schenk is a reporter covering police, courts and breaking news at The News-Gazette. Her email is mschenk@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@schenk).
CHARLESTON - The Coles County Health Department reported 95 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday.

The latest numbers brings the total positive cases to 14,627 since the pandemic began in March 2020. The total number of deaths stands at 156.

This comes after the county finished January with 4,650 cases reported, which is more positive cases than were reported during the first 11 months of 2021.

The health department also reported that 43.26% of Coles County residents are vaccinated, with 47.18% receiving at least on dose as of Feb. 1.

Currently, there are 39 COVID-19 patients hospitalized at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center and out of those hospitalized, four are in the Critical Care Unit. Eighteen others are being monitored in the COVID @ Home program.
Petra Diamonds improves balance sheet, financial profile

03 february 2022 News

Petra Diamonds has concluded a binding, credit approved term sheet for the refinancing of its first-lien debt facility with its South African lender group, providing for more favourable terms than the groups current first-lien facilities.

A new revolving credit facility (RCF) with Absa Bank will replace the existing RCF and term lending arrangements with the current South African lender syndicate comprising Absa, Nedbank, RMB and Ninety-One.

The new terms include, among other things, improved structure with a single R1 billion RCF replacing the existing amortising term loan (R856.1 million owed at 31 December 2021 net of unamortised transaction costs of R20.2million) and the R408.8 million RCF.

Petra recently settled the R402.2 million drawn under the existing RCF as of 31 December 2021 from available cash balances.

It said this refinancing reflects an improved group balance sheet and financial profile, supported by a quicker than expected diamond price recovery and the continued recovery of exceptional diamonds.

The significant improvement in our facility reflects our stronger cash flow generation and improved balance sheet resulting from a robust diamond market and solid operational performance, said company chief executive Richard Duffy.

The conclusion of the new facility is subject to the completion of appropriate definitive agreements, expected to be finalised during the third quarter to the fiscal year 2022.



Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished






Why not Pence?

Its a question I pose seriously to my fellow citizens who plan to vote for Donald Trump if he runs again. Lets ignore the personalities for a moment and compare two theoretical candidates. We will stipulate that our two candidates policy positions are indistinguishable. Candidate A is a handsome, trim, 62-year-old former governor who has led a virtuous life. He has been married to a Midwestern schoolteacher for 36 years. He is so faithful that he will not dine alone with another woman to avoid the appearance of impropriety. He is a devout, Bible-believing Christian. Hes measured in his responses and disagrees agreeably. He has pets, including dogs, cats, and rabbits. Candidate B is a 75-year-old businessman who is not as handsome or trim. Even his most ardent supporters acknowledge he can be mean-spirited and crass. He has been thrice married and is alleged to have had several affairs. He has been recorded making profoundly misogynistic remarks. His business record is checkered. A number of his enterprises including an airline, a private university, a mortgage company, and multiple casinos have gone bankrupt. Hes one of only a few men to ever be featured on the cover of Playboy magazine. He has no pets.

Without attaching names to the candidates described, it seems that Candidate A would be the overwhelming favorite of most Republicans, especially evangelical Christians, who since the 1980s have been trying to persuade America that they represent the Moral Majority. Every Sunday School teacher or parent could hold Candidate A up as a role model. Not so Candidate B, who doesnt attend church regularly and who when asked during the campaign, Have you ever had to ask God for forgiveness? responded Thats a tough question  Im not sure I have.

Moving out of the theoretical realm back to reality, theres also the small matter that Mike Pence saved our democracy from Donald Trumps attempts to subvert it.

This is the part that voters like me have the hardest time understanding. Pence gives you everything you say you want. Hes a smart, likeable man. He has a wholesome family without a hint of scandal. He holds all of Trumps policy positions: voter integrity, Second Amendment rights, strong borders, pro-life, low taxes, anti-globalism, an aggressive anti-China posture, America first.

I can understand how Republican voters were taken with Trump during the 2016 campaign. I heard these sorts of accolades about Trump back then: He talks tough; He says what he thinks; Hes a businessman; Hell drain the swamp; Hes a disrupter.

You didnt know exactly what you were getting, but you wanted someone different. Then we heard: Hell become more presidential once in office; Hell moderate his tweets. But that didnt happen. He was just as bombastic and hyperbolic after being inaugurated. Despite demanding loyalty from his Cabinet, he showed them none and dismissed several via Twitter. Through it all, Pence stood by Trump, gamely defending him.

If you voted for Trump as a disrupter, you got what you wanted, but at the peril of our country. Trumps temperament-his intuitive, freewheeling approach, and his tendency to make self-interest the focal point of every decision-made him interesting and attractive to many voters, but it also made him dangerous. Presidential candidates spend most of their time talking about their policy positions. We are wise to remember that presidents only implement a fraction of what they propose. But they always face unforeseen crises. When Trump lost the election, the fullness of his narcissism was exposed. His fragile ego couldnt process his loss, so he now cant get a minute into a speech or interview without disputing the outcome, despite the fact that over 60 courts have ruled against his legal challenges and no evidence of significant fraud has been uncovered.

In his rage, he tried to bully Pence into delivering a body blow to American democracy. He publicly and privately goaded him to do the right thing. As the Capitol rioters stormed the Senate chambers searching for his vice president, Trump did nothing, hoping the certification would be derailed. Adding to the virtue of Pences actions is that in opposing Trumps self-interest, he was opposing his own. Had the election been overturned, Pence would have remained vice president and been the front runner in 2024.

But Pence is a statesman and a patriot who cares more for his country than himself. That chaotic day, his principled stand averted a crippling constitutional crisis. The images beamed across the globe showing our Capitol under attack did damage enough to Americas place as the worlds premier democracy. How much greater would have been the damage if Pence had capitulated? He stood in the gap, saving our electoral process from veering off a high cliff.

Let me be clear, I say this as someone who would likely vote against Pence if he were nominated. I disagree with his positions on health care, climate change, immigration, racial justice, and LGBTQ rights among others. But the goal of our primary process is to nominate two people who both have the temperament to lead the country through whatever crises befall them during their term, not to create them.

I wouldnt prefer Pence to a centrist Democrat. I would be part of his loyal opposition if he were elected. But I would be glad to have a Republican nominee who respected the office and traditions of the presidency, and articulated his policy positions well. And we would all sleep better, Republicans and Democrats, knowing that if he won, our democracy would be secure.
DECATUR  If you needed a burger and some fries on Wednesday, Steak 'n' Shake on Pershing Road was there to serve.

We decided to stay open because in the past, we've had city workers and snow plow drivers come in and we have to stay open to provide a meal for someone, said owner Rachel Warnick. We'll probably be looking at the snow this afternoon and maybe close early, but for now, we're going to stay open as long as we can.

With the snow still coming down and blowing, and any evidence of previous shoveling and plowing vanishing a just a short time later, officials urged residents to stay home.

With schools and a large number of businesses closed, some brave souls made it to work in spite of it. On Decatur's northeast side, most businesses were closed though there were cars in the lots at Macon Resources Inc. and Coffee Connection posted on Facebook that if customers were brave enough to come in, employees were there, too.

We are self employed and we have work to do, said Mike Sunderland, exhaust specialist at Danny's Muffler and Brake. Everybody made it to work.

Some customers canceled appointments on Tuesday in light of the grim forecast, but there was still plenty of work to be done to keep them busy on Wednesday, he said.

Jim Irvin Hauling is a diversified business that includes asphalt, hauling, and snowplowing, and he was very busy on Wednesday.

"We have a lot of senior citizens who need to get out," said Irvin, who plows seniors' driveways for free. He was also plowing his commercial customers' parking lots. "We try to keep things rolling. Somebody always needs our services and we're here to help people."

People hunkering down at home and hoping for an InstaCart or Door Dash driver to deliver might have been out of luck, however.

Christian Barber, who delivers for InstaCart, which is a grocery shopping and delivery service, said he wasn't accepting assignments on Wednesday.

I can just log in whenever and say I'm online and I can log off whenever, Barber said. I don't have to accept any orders if I don't want to.

Knowing the bad weather was coming, he said, he had done a lot of extra runs over the weekend and on Monday and Tuesday, planning to take Wednesday off. He had checked the order site and there were several orders waiting for someone to accept them, so he wasn't the only one choosing that path.

That was the same idea Stephanie Cox had. She delivers for Door Dash and, not being a fan of snow or cold, wasn't accepting any orders on Wednesday, either. During a recent trip to Wisconsin, she discovered her current car isn't much fun on snow.

You are your own boss, so you make your (own) hours, Cox said.
Three weeks ago, Ed Hughes was undergoing aortic valve replacement at Dothans Southeast Health.

Wednesday, the Enterprise resident stood behind a lectern outside the hospitals Heart and Vascular Center and thanked the doctors, nurses, and other medical staff who provided him care.

I probably wouldnt be here today, and I certainly wouldnt be here breathing, Hughes said. It is appreciated.

A few minutes later, red confetti filled the air as Southeast Health held its annual kickoff for Heart Health Awareness Month.

Hughes is one of nearly 200 patients who have benefitted from Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement, or TAVR, at Southeast Health. Rather than open-heart surgery, a doctor inserts a catheter through a blood vessel into a patients leg in order to deliver and implant an artificial valve in the heart.

For Hughes, a heart murmur that had been monitored by his regular physician had worsened. He was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis, a condition when the hearts aortic valve narrows and doesnt open fully. It can reduce or block blood flow from your heart to the rest of your body.

Of the three types of heart valve problems you can have  the good, the bad and the ugly  mine was serious, Hughes said. That kind of got my attention.

After exhaustive testing, Hughes underwent a TAVR procedure on Jan. 13. There was very little discomfort following the procedure, Hughes said. The doctors and staff explained the procedure so thoroughly that he had very little anxiety about it.

The entire time I was met with nothing but positivity, care, professionalism, and knowledge, he said.  Im here today because of them.

Its been 10 years since Southeast Health opened its Heart and Vascular Center. Eric Hartigan, executive director of Southeast Healths Ancillary Services, said the center was opened to provide the areas residents with cutting-edge technology and treatment.

The centers structural heart program  which specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that the affect the hearts interior walls, valves, arteries, and veins  was key in Southeast Health being able to offer the TAVR treatment option for aortic stenosis, Hartigan said. The hospital also offers the Watchman procedure, a quarter-sized implant, for high-risk atrial fibrillation patients. More than 40 Watchman devices have been implanted at the hospital.

Southeast Health has offered the TAVR procedure since December 2018. The hospital will reach 200 TAVR procedures in the next few weeks.

Dr. Peter Rao of Cardiology Associates said the TAVR procedure has made valve replacement possible for patients who cant undergo open-heart surgery.

We have formed an incredible partnership with our other collaborating physicians both with the program and then in all the support positions who refer us patients, Rao said. But it wouldnt be without the contribution from all of our support staff  the nurses, the folks that check patients in for their workups and check them out, all the people that do all the testing that we need before we do the procedure. Its the definition of a team effort.

Aortic stenosis is a common and terminal condition if left untreated, Rao said. Many patients are affected later in life when other medical issues make the traditional open-heart surgery difficult and evenly deadly, he said. The condition can cause debilitating shortness of breath, limiting a patients activity level and shortening their life.

TAVR, which allows for a next-day discharge, has given those patients another option.

We have been able to adopt this technology for the vast majority of our patients now with great results, Rao said. Its a highly rewarding procedure to be a part of both not only because of the collaboration that we have with our whole entire organization, but primarily for the impact it has on our patients.
Cambridge University students campaigning to take down a memorial to a 17th century benefactor who invested in slave-trading companies have been fed a 'false narrative', a court has heard.

Undergraduates at Jesus College are demanding the removal of a plaque to Tobias Rustat, a courtier to Charles II, after it emerged that he had held a leadership position in the slave-trading firm the Royal African Company.

A court hearing, one of the first of its kind, is examining an application to the Diocese of Ely to relocate Rustat's marble bust from its chapel to a permanent exhibition space in the college because it is 'incompatible with the chapel as an inclusive community and a place of collective wellbeing'.

But the move has also received strong opposition from preservationists, Historic England and even Rustat's descendants.

The court heard yesterday that students at the college had sent emails repeatedly accusing Rustat, who donated large sums to the college, of being 'heavily involved' in slavery, according to The Times.

'It's wrong for the statue of someone who was so heavily involved in the horrific crimes of slavery to be glorified in our community,' part of an email read.

But Justin Gau, representing 65 alumni opposed to the removal, said students had been given a 'false narrative' about Rustat and accused the college's legacy of slavery working party of withholding information about him.

Cambridge University's Jesus College proposes removing the memorial to 17th benefactor Tobias Rustat from the chapel

Jesus College set up a Legacy of Slavery Working Party, which recommended Rustat should not be celebrated by the college

He asked Rev James Crockford, Jesus College's dean of chapel, where the phrase had come from.

'Again and again undergraduates are [in at least 21 emails] writing the same sentence accusing Rustat of being heavily involved in slavery and being glorified...' Gau said.

He said that there was 'no demonstration in any document that Tobias Rustat was any sort of slave trader'.

Gau had also asked the court 'where, for example, in the gospels is slavery condemned?' during Wednesday's hearing.

Reverend James Crockford, the college's dean of the chapel, shot back at the barrister and warned students may not be able to exercise 'critical thinking' if they are disturbed by the memorial.

Preservationists, alumni and Rustat's descendants have opposed the removal of the memorial - arguing that his contributions to Cambridge were not earned from his financial interests in the slave trade.

Rustat is known to have donated 2,000, equivalent to 450,000 today, to fund scholarships for the children of Anglican priests at the college, which was his father's alma mater.

Historic England warned the removal of Rustat's sculpture would 'harm the significance of Jesus College Chapel'.

Tobias Rustat (pictured) was a major investor in the Royal African Company and had been a servant to King Charles II

The case has prompted fresh fears over the proliferation of 'cancel culture' at academic institutions across the country, as the university's historic rival, Oxford, faced similar calls to topple its monument to imperialist Cecil Rhodes.

The case is being given a unique hearing because Rustat's memorial resides in a Grade I-listed religious building, so cannot be independently determined by the university and instead must be heard by a church-appointed judge at a consistory case.

Mr Gau argued on Wednesday that Rustat must be judged 'as a whole and as part of his society', before warning that we 'should not remove the difficulties that life throws at us in a chapel.'

Reading from students' emails that accused the 17th century courtier of being an active slave trader, Mr Gau challenged that assumption, stating there had been 'no demonstration in any document that Tobias Rustat was any sort of slave trader'.

A student's email dated December 19, 2020 said Mr Rustat 'amassed much of his wealth from the RAC', which Mr Gau said is 'simply not true'.

The email continued: 'The college has clearly denounced its bequest from Rustat as morally repugnant.' The email also claimed the memorial commemorated 'white supremacy'.

Rev Crockford replied: 'We should indeed be understanding individuals within their context, before adding: 'The memorial focuses very much on the financial virtues of Tobias Rustat and so there's a particular lens within which we need to see this memorial.'

He told Mr Gau that, as he understands it, the 'discomfort' of undergraduates and fellows regarding the memorial relates to the 'difficulty and significance of a monument that celebrates the life of the man... and his financial dealings'.

Jesus College's application to the Diocese states that keeping the memorial within the chapel is 'inconsistent with the tenets of the Christian faith', and is a 'hindrance to participation in the pastoral and community activities of the college which take place in the chapel'.

The marble memorial is on a wall within the college's chapel and was commissioned by Rustat during his lifetime when he was already a major College donor.

The Roya African Company, a business he invested heavily in and counted Bristol slave trader Edward Colston among its alumni, has been described as by historians as shipping 'more enslaved African women, men and children to the Americans than any single institution during the entire period of the transatlantic slave trade'.

Following recommendations made by Jesus College's Legacy of Slavery Working Party in 2019 and 2020, the college took the view that the memorial represents a celebration of Rustat which is 'incompatible with the chapel as an inclusive community and a place of collective wellbeing'.

University benefactor and slave trade investor: Life of Tobias Rustat - and his links to Edward Colston A statue of Tobias Rustat Tobias Rustat was a 17th century benefactor of the University of Cambridge, as well as a servant to King Charles II. He created the first fund for the purchase of books at the Cambridge University Library. Born circa 1606, he trained as an apprentice to a barber-surgeon in his youth before becoming a servant - first to the 2nd Duke of Buckingham and later to the monarch. He accumulated his wealth during his career as a courtier - but also invested in several trading companies, including the Company of Royal Adventurers of England Trading into Africa - commonly known as the Royal African Company (RAC). The Company had complete control of Britain's slave trade, as well as its gold and Ivory business, with Africa and the forts on the coast of west Africa. Later in life, Rustat became a benefactor to the university, focusing mainly on Jesus College, where his father had been a student. He died in 1694. A contemporary of Rustat was Edward Colston, who became Deputy Governor of the Royal African Company. During Colston's tenure, his ships transported around 80,000 slaves from Africa to the Caribbean and America. Around 20,000 of them, including around 3,000 or more children, died during the journeys. Colston's brother Thomas supplied the glass beads that were used to buy the slaves. Colston used a lot of his wealth, accrued from his extensive slave trading, to build schools and almshouses in his home city. A statue was erected in his honour as well as other buildings named after him, including Colston Hall. But after years of protests by campaigners and boycotts by artists the venue recently agreed to remove all reference of the trader. In the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020 sparked by the death of George Floyd in the US, the statue of Colston overlooking the harbour in Bristol was torn down. Advertisement

Archivist Robert Athol said last year that the plan to move the monument to an exhibition setting will 'allow for restoration and study of the monument'.

He added that it 'will enable people to engage with it as an artistic piece and as a vehicle for discussion about the history and legacy of enslavement'.

But preservationists have slammed plans to move the memorial, which is believed to have been crafted by renowned Anglo-Dutch sculptor Grinling Gibbons.

Prominent historical figures with alleged slavery links were re-examined after the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020 which saw the toppling of a statue of slave trader Edward Colston in Bristol - a contemporary of Rustat.

The Master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne, said that the college's proposal to relocate the monument to an educational exhibition space was 'part of a process of critical self-reflection on the long-term legacies of enslavement and colonial violence'.

'The chapel should offer a welcoming space accessible to every member of our community,' she said last year. 'This is the right solution for our college.'

Cambridge Stand up to Racism said in a statement: 'We strongly support the decolonisation movement active in academic institutions across the country. We support the master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne, who wants to move the plaque of the slave trader Tobias Rustat from the chapel.

'Furthermore, we support the removal of the memorial plaque from Jesus College altogether and its placing somewhere where its significance can be properly explained.

'The brutality of a slave trader 'benefactor' has been hidden from history for too long.

'We supported the removal of Edward Colston's statue in Bristol and we support the campaign by Hackney Stand Up To Racism and Diane Abbott to remove Robert Geffrye's statue from the Museum of the Home in Hackney.

'We feel that Tobias Rustat is another in the same line of despicable merchants who made their fortunes out of the misery of others.'

A number of college alumni have also objected to the proposal to move the memorial.

A Jesus College spokesman said last month: 'It comes down to whether it's in the best interests of our current and future students and fellows for this celebratory memorial to be in our Chapel, a place of worship at the heart of our diverse community.'

'The college is not seeking to cancel Rustat or erase him from the record - it is applying to have his memorial moved from a place of worship to a more suitable - but still prominent - place in the college.

'In addition to religious events, the chapel plays a central role in college life and hosts many historic and ceremonial occasions as well as concerts and recitals, welfare activities and student arts festivals.

'The memorial is an obstacle to some members of our community participating in all these college events.'

In February last year, the descendants of Rustat criticised the plans to move the memorial. Stephen Hemsted and his three brothers, Rustat's tenth great nephews, lodged a complaint with the college and argued that the Royal African Company was not the source of money he gave to the institution.

The family told The Times that they regarded Rustat as a 'distinguished ancestor' and added there was 'no justification' for removing the memorial.

The Master of Jesus College, Sonita Alleyne, said that the proposal to relocate the monument to an educational exhibition space was 'part of a process of critical self-reflection on the long-term legacies of enslavement and colonial violence'

Mr Hemsted said of Rustat: 'It's clear that the bulk of his wealth came from things [that were] nothing to do with slavery, so the money that was given to Jesus College clearly has nothing to do with slavery.'

He added: 'We think it's a mistake to try to link his investment in the Royal African Company to this memorial and the bequest he made to Jesus College. There seems to be no justification on slavery grounds for removing the memorial.'

Mr Hemsted had proposed to Ms Alleyne that a notice be put in the chapel explaining both Rustat's generous donations and his links to the slaving company.

He said the college's plan was to remove the memorial entirely and instead have a plaque at the entrance warning people they were stepping into 'a place where Tobias Rustat had put money'.

Rustat's memorial was commissioned by the man himself, and it is prominently displayed in Jesus College's chapel.

It comes less than a month after a jury spared the 'Colston Four' from punishment after admitting they caused criminal damage when they tore down a monument to slave trader Edward Colston during Black Lives Matter demos in Bristol.

Rhian Graham, 30, Milo Ponsford, 26, Sage Willoughby, 22, and Jake Skuse, 33, were cleared of all charges at Bristol Crown Court despite admitting to playing a part in the destruction of Colston's historic statue.

Lawyers and political commentators have since slammed the jury's verdict, with some admitting they fear that the 17th century slaver was put on trial at Bristol Crown Court, rather than the four self-professed vandals.
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LEWISTON, Maine (Tribune News Service)  A team of military medical personnel arrived at Central Maine Medical Center over the weekend, where they'll be assisting providers for at least the next month under a federal COVID-19 response program.

Gov. Janet Mills announced last week that the Federal Emergency Management Agency had approved her request on behalf of the Lewiston hospital for additional clinical support.

All 20 clinicians came to Maine by way of Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, where they are members of the 96th Medical Group. They include: four physicians, five critical care nurses, five medical surgical nurses, one emergency room nurse, two EMT-certified medical technicians, two respiratory technicians and one administrative lead, according to Maj. Jonathan Flores, a critical care nurse and the officer-in-charge.

"Since we've partnered with the hospital, we have felt welcomed by the staff and are happy to work with this great team of medical professionals to ensure that we meet the needs of the local community during this pandemic," Flores said at a news conference Tuesday morning at CMMC.

"The impact of this team is great for our community," Kris Chaisson, CMMC's vice president of nursing and patient care services, said Tuesday.

The clinicians will be "strategically placed throughout the organization" to help namely with increasing bed capacity, she said.

At least four nurses will work on both the day and night shifts in the COVID unit and four nurses will go to critical care units.

"Because (of) our limited capacity, some patients are staying a little longer than we want in the (Emergency Department)," as is happening at hospitals across the country, Chaisson said.

"So, this will provide us a chance to take care of everybody upstairs," she said.

CMMC will also be able to open a monoclonal antibody treatment clinic with help from the federal team, a first for the area, according to Chaisson.

Flores said he "feels good" about the mission because "I'm here to help the citizens in the community."

"The first part of our Air Force (Airman's Creed), it says 'I'm an American Airman. I have answered my nation's call.' So, my team, a group of nurses, docs, med techs and RTs, have answered our nation's call here in Lewiston, Maine," Flores said.

The news of their arrival was a huge relief for hospital staff, Chaisson said.

"They're excited, relieved and grateful for the presence of any help we've gotten throughout the pandemic," she said. "Staff have been working really hard. They're all pulling extra shifts."

Capt. Michael Robbins, a critical care nurse, could see how relieved staff were as his team got situated at the hospital over the weekend.

"This go-round seems like (we) have a lot of lessons learned from the COVID pandemic and just our mission as a whole, it seems that this has become much more streamlined, more efficient and we're just excited to be here in Maine and fighting this invisible enemy together," Robbins said in footage recorded over the weekend and provided by the U.S. Department of Defense.

"I would say there's a bit of a mix of emotions, nervousness because we don't necessarily know what to expect but also an excitement to know that we've been called upon to help out and to be able to give back to the community also," Senior Airman Michal Fryar, a respiratory therapist, said in the DOD footage.

The mission will bring new experiences  and not just COVID-related ones: Like many other members of the federal team, this is Robbins' and Fryar's first time in Maine.

"I've never experienced anywhere this cold, so that's been fun," Fryar said.

This is the second team of federally contracted clinicians to provide assistance to the Lewiston hospital since the pandemic began.

A group of four nurses and pharmacists helped administer COVID vaccines at the high-volume site at the Auburn Mall. Those clinicians arrived in Lewiston on Jan. 10 and departed last week.

A federal ambulance team, one of nine in the state, has been assisting with nonemergency patient transfers at CMMC since December. FEMA recently approved Mills' request to extend their service in Maine.

More than 200 members of the Maine National Guard have been deployed on COVID response orders at health care facilities throughout the state since late last year. There are at least 20 Guardsmen stationed at CMMC who are scheduled to remain there through the end of the month.

(c)2022 the Sun Journal (Lewiston, Maine)

Visit the Sun Journal (Lewiston, Maine) at www.sunjournal.com

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U.S. experts agree on the need for Washington to rethink its strategy for Central Asia in light of its withdrawal from Afghanistan but are divided on what shape that new strategy should take.

Until 2001, few Americans knew this remote region. But it played a key role in U.S. military operations in Afghanistan, with Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan hosting air bases and helping the coalition transport critical goods.

U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Lesslie Viguerie said Central Asia is still strategically important, despite the U.S. exit from Afghanistan. Many things have changed over decades, but our overarching goals remain the same: sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, Viguerie said.

At a recent U.S. Institute of Peace forum, Viguerie said the nations of Central Asia which include Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan  have become more concerned about their own security since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban.

As the State Departments top official for the region, he said Washington steadfastly supports political, economic and social reforms.

Pluralism and democratic governance are the foundational bedrock for a free and prosperous society, he said. We continue to advance the rule of law, promote respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and fight corruption.

In 2015, Washington created the regionally focused C5+1 forum to discuss common challenges and to enhance connectivity, economic integration and energy linkages. That discussion included links with Afghanistan, but whether that continues will largely depend on the actions of the Taliban, officials said.

Viguerie said regional cooperation could help the five nations to deal more effectively with problems as diverse as the pandemic, climate change and disinformation campaigns.

Recent events in Kazakhstan remind us of the importance of addressing the underlying social and economic factors that can lead to instability, he said in reference to nationwide protests sparked by a sharp spike in fuel prices.

We continue to highlight the positive role civil society can play in examining the root causes of economic and social frustrations.

Mistaken presumption

Richard Hoagland, a former U.S. ambassador to Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, said that while Washington speaks publicly about democracy and economic development, it is more quietly focused on countering Russian and Chinese influence in the region.

In the 1990s, Hoagland recalled, U.S. policy presumed that the nations of Central Asia would surely become free market democracies if only we could offer enough assistance. But they didn't. And in retrospect, that's not the least bit surprising.

The ways of the West were too foreign to Central Asians who had long lived under repressive rulers, Hoagland said.

Going forward, he said, these five countries will need to resist outside pressure in order to balance their relationships with Moscow, Beijing, Brussels and Washington. Russia would not be at all displeased to see the West and especially the U.S. pack up its bags and go home.

Beijing, the largest investor in the region, made further commitments during a virtual meeting last week between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and the five Central Asian presidents. India showcased its own interest in investing in the region during a similar summit a day later.

Hoagland argued that U.S. concerns over governance and human rights problems should not lead Washington to dial back its relations with the region.

We need patience, he said, noting the rise of a new generation in Central Asia, including some with Western education and values.

Jennifer Murtazashvili, an analyst with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said U.S. strategy for the region does not take current realities into account.

The U.S. can play a very constructive role in Central Asia but has to understand their needs, desires and goals, she said at the USIP forum.

She urged Washington not to look at the region through the lens of Russia or China, saying, We can't be reactive to what other countries are doing, but proactive.

Murtazashvili said U.S. engagement with the region should focus on the intersection between economic development and public administration, including efforts to combat corruption and work with emerging civil society. Without reforms in these areas, it will be difficult for Central Asians to achieve their goals, she said.

She considers education the biggest area of demand for cooperation with the U.S. because of youthful populations.

Security cooperation first

But Fred Starr, chairman of the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute, contends that security cooperation should instead be front and center. A discussion with the countries that honestly includes security, sovereignty, self-government and self-determination is what's been missing, he said.

Speaking at the same virtual forum, Starr said Central Asia is the only region in the world that doesn't have its own intraregional organization without outsiders and urges Washington to support such initiatives.

The C5+1 is thin. The concept is good, they have meetings, but it's been very passive by comparison to what China and Russia are doing, Starr said.

We have to be more patient and tenacious with those who are underperforming in areas that are important to us, he added. Treat them as a region, treat them with respect, foster a regional thinking in our programs.

Murtazashvili sees Afghanistan as a place with potential to foster positive relationships among Russia, China and the United States. Now that the geopolitical implications of a major foreign presence in Afghanistan no longer overshadow more immediate regional interests, she said, major powers could collaborate on development and investment opportunities in this part of the world.

Having a Central Asian strategy that was so dependent on what happened in Afghanistan was a huge risk, she said. We weren't seeing the strong mutual interests that many countries in Central Asia had with Afghanistan regardless of who is in power.

Starr and Murtazashvili recommend the United States make Afghanistan part of a renewed strategy. Central Asians are more confident in dealing with Afghanistan than we are, said Murtazashvili, specifically referring to Uzbekistans humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan.

Values-based approach

Steve Swerdlow, professor of human rights at the University of Southern California, argues for a values-first strategy toward the region. In an interview with VOA, he said Americas reputation as a defender of human rights and democracy has been damaged in recent years but argued that the Afghan withdrawal frees up the U.S. to reclaim a more values-based approach to Central Asia.

"Washington should speak out more about the harassment of journalists and create greater recognition that support for civil society is a core national interest of the U.S., he said.

Global Magnitsky sanctions against bad guys should be used more in Central Asia in a strategic way, he added. Go after corrupt individuals; curtail some of the globalized, offshore asset holdings by a close circle of former Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev.

Swerdlow said Washington should utilize the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and the United Nations to raise human rights issues in Central Asia and negotiate with Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan as members of the U.N. Human Rights Council about their obligations.
The Winter Olympic Games in Beijing are just days away, but the Biden administrations campaign to orchestrate a diplomatic boycott, so far joined by only seven allies, is already failing to meet certain expectations.

It seems as if the criterion for success was to get a sizeable group of countries on board to shame China into improving its human rights conditions.

Theres no question that Beijings horrendous acts against the Uyghurs and other minorities in China are atrocious. But policymakers would be deeply misguided to think that such a symbolic gesture, even if perfectly executed, can trigger any meaningful change in Beijing. There are better ways to counter the Chinese Communist Partys forced labor violations than merely checking symbolic boxes.

Consider some successful boycotts in Olympics history. In 1980, America led a boycott, joined by more than 60 countries, of the Moscow Games in protest of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. The Soviet Union didnt withdraw from Afghanistan because of the boycott, but generous critics would say that the gesture nevertheless eroded the Kremlins prestige and might have even contributed to the regimes demise about a decade later. But maybe the administration should ask the Ukrainians how they feel about Russian aggression.

Others might claim that the tactic was a success when more than 20 African countries sat out the Montreal Games in 1976, protesting New Zealands continued sporting relationship with apartheid South Africa, particularly on the rugby field. One might argue that the boycott made a difference because, a year later, New Zealand joined the Gleneagles Agreement, a pledge among Commonwealth states to discourage any sporting contacts with South Africa. But New Zealand and South Africa still held several more rugby tours throughout the remaining years of the apartheid regime.

Even this limited success required conditions that are not applicable to China today. In 1969, anti-apartheid activists in New Zealand formed the group Halt All Racist Tours to protest the countrys rugby engagement with South Africa. Their efforts continued until the end of the atrocious regime and successfully stopped several rugby tours between the two countries. But in todays China, not only are there no anti-genocide demonstrations but, thanks to Beijings effective propaganda and information control, the typical Chinese person likely doesnt know that the current boycott is because of forced labor in their country  if they know about the forced labor at all.

Some people in power may want you to believe that symbolic gestures go a long way and, hence, they have done something. But what really makes a difference is the power of the people. There are more effective ways for the American people to counter the Chinese Communist Partys forced labor practice in Xinjiang, should they choose to exercise their power.

I previously wrote about the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act that became law late last year. Intended to block such goods from entering the U.S. market, the legislation has some potential to put meaningful pressures on Beijing. But some important details are yet to be finalized. The Department of Homeland Security is now seeking public comments on how to best do this, and Americans can choose to speak up.

But the most powerful weapon the people have lies in how they make their daily choices. Some international corporations may not want to clean up their forced labor-tainted supply chains because that would cross Beijing and hurt their bottom line, but some may. And if any company does, it would likely be because the vast number of consumers care enough about the issue to change their buying practices. In recent years, ethical consumerism has made significant strides in phasing out conflict diamonds, elephant ivory and child labor-made chocolates in the marketplace. It, too, can make a difference in combating Chinas human rights abuses.

Some might say that boycotting the Beijing Games is nevertheless a worthwhile moral gesture. Perhaps. But the gravity of Chinas human rights violations demands much more from our morality than any feel-good measures.
Dakota Johnson has found her next project to produce, an adaptation of the upcoming novel The End of Getting Lost.

The 32-year-old actress has signed on to produce with Ro Donnelly through their TeaTime Pictures company, via The Hollywood Reporter.

The project has also brought on Paul Mescal and Margaret Qualley to star in this adaptation of Robin Kirman's novel, debuting February 15 by Simon & Schuster.

Producer Dakota: Dakota Johnson has found her next project to produce, an adaptation of the upcoming novel The End of Getting Lost

New novel: The project has also brought on Paul Mescal and Margaret Qualley to star in this adaptation of Robin Kirman's novel, debuting February 15 by Simon & Schuster

The story is set in 1990s Europe, following a recently-married couple, Duncan (Mescal) and Gina (Qualley), who are both on what Duncan claims is their honeymoon.

The trip takes a serious turn when Gina suffers from a mysterious accident, as the story begins to go back and forth between the past and present.

The story also alternates between the husband and wife's perspective, which paints a proverbial portrait of, 'loves power and dangers.'

Couple: The story is set in 1990s Europe, following a recently-married couple, Duncan (Mescal) and Gina (Qualley, above), who are both on what Duncan claims is their honeymoon

Husband: The story also alternates between the husband (played by Mescal, above) and wife's perspective, which paints a proverbial portrait of, 'loves power and dangers

While they bounce around various European countries, both of their formers lives threaten to catch up with the couple.

As the two hop borders across Europe, their former lives threaten to catch up with them while the truth grows more elusive.

Deniz Gamze Erguven (Mustang) has come aboard to direct the adaptation, with author Kirman writing the screenplay adaptation herself.

Former lives: While they bounce around various European countries, both of their formers lives threaten to catch up with the couple

Hop borders: As the two hop borders across Europe, their former lives threaten to catch up with them while the truth grows more elusive

Kirman is also teaming up with Johnson and Donnelly's TeaTime production company for a new TV series entitled The Love Wave.

Johnson made her debut as a producer last month with two new movies that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, Cha Cha Real Smooth, which was picked up by Apple in a $15 million deal.

She also produced Am I OK, which she also starred in, which HBO Max and Warner Bros. picked up.

Producer: Kirman is also teaming up with Johnson and Donnelly's TeaTime production company for a new TV series entitled The Love Wave

Producing debut: Johnson made her debut as a producer last month with two new movies that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, Cha Cha Real Smooth, which was picked up by Apple in a $15 million deal

Johnson also starred in the upcoming Jane Austen adaptation Persuasion with Suki Waterhouse and Henry Golding.

She will also produce and star in the upcoming Daddio, which is currently in pre-production and will also star Sean Penn.

Director Erguven had a breakthrough with 2015's Mustang, and she has since directed episodes of The Handmaid's Tale and HBO's Perry Mason.
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has denied accusations that he delayed or interfered with investigations into the 2019 death of Ronald Greene, an unarmed Black man who was hit with a stun gun, punched, placed in a chokehold, and dragged face down while handcuffed and shackled by state police.

During a press conference on 1 February, the governor publicly condemned the actions of state police as racist and criminal, and he rejected any characterisation that his administration sought to cover up his death or prevent legislative inquiries into the incident.

We have to do more to identify that early on and separate people from their badges when theyre not worthy of wearing one, when theyre not committed to serving and protecting the public, he said. I cannot imagine that, had Mr Greene been white, he would have been treated that way.

His remarks were his first on the matter following an Associated Press report published late last month revealing that the governor received text messages from state police roughly nine hours after Greenes death, in which police told him that an unnamed man became unresponsive after a violent, lengthy struggle following a car crash.

Meanwhile, Greenes family was told by state police that he died on impact in a crash following a police chase, and neither any messages to Governor Edwards nor state police reports of his death mention that he was beaten by police.

Last year, the Associated Press obtained and published long-withheld body camera video footage showing what exactly happened that night, unraveling the subsequent cover up and raising questions about what then-Louisiana State Police Superintendent Kevin Reeves and the governors office knew, and when, and to what lengths the details of Greenes death were obscured.

That footage was published a year after his death, even after the familys wrongful death lawsuit that was filed in October 2020 brought attention to the case.

No one has been charged with a crime for Greenes death. The wrongful death suit and a federal investigation into his death are pending.

Story continues

The Associated Press report suggests that the governor knew about the incident for two years, in the middle of a politically volatile election cycle, though the governor contends that he did not connect that the state polices report of Greenes death was about Greene until more than a year later, when the wrongful death suit was brought to his attention.

The governor said his office has never tried to hide or interfere with any investigation into Greenes death, and that doing so goes beyond every ounce of my being, every ounce of my character and my principles.

Governor Edwards contends that he did not speak publicly about the footage of Greenes death because he was told by the US Department of Justice that doing so could interrupt a federal investigation.

Clearly, anyone who has seen the videos will see that Mr Greene did not die in a car accident, he said. The initial text I received did not say he died in a car accident, and if anyone ever said that, it was just plain wrong.

What I have consistently said is that the cause of death is obviously a part of the investigation and that the state and federal prosecutors have to make the decision based on the proof that they have available to them.

His press conference came moments after a heated meeting with the states Legislative Black Caucus, which pressed the governor about why he did not speak out of follow up with state police after receiving reports of the death of a person in their custody. (The governors sole reply to that text, according to messages obtained by the Associated Press: Thank you.)

A man died in custody. You dont ask his name? You dont ask what happened? You dont get any facts? a caucus member asked the governor, according to audio obtained by the Associated Press.

I am not going to tell you everything that has happened with the state police since Ive been governor has been perfect, the governor said. Theyre alleging that I have been personally involved in these things and I have not.

He also reportedly has grown frustrated with the federal investigation, asking whether they are ever going to come out and have a charged, according to audio of the meeting obtained by the Associated Press.

I apologize with the core of my soul that we havent made the progress over the last year that I hoped to have made and that I thought we were making with state police, he said. I am more disappointed in me than probably you are.

In a statement on 31 January, US Attorney Brandon Brown and FBI Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams Jr said the investigation into Greenes death has been comprehensive and those conducting the investigation have followed all credible leads.

If the investigation reveals prosecutable violations of any federal criminal statutes, the Department will take appropriate action, they said.

The officials also said that reports suggesting that the FBI has questioned people about the awareness of certain facts by Governor John Bel Edwards is inaccurate, contrary to reporting from the Associated Press.
A Grand Island man, who was in a head-on collision Sunday morning after fleeing a traffic stop in Hamilton County, died of his injuries Tuesday, the Nebraska State Patrol announced.

Angel Pojoy Domingo, 18, was ejected in the crash that happened shortly after 6 a.m. Sunday on Interstate 80 near Aurora.

Domingo had been eastbound on I-80 in a Toyota Corolla near mile marker 318 when an Aurora Police officer tried to stop him for alleged reckless driving, according to the State Patrol.

As the officer initiated the stop, Domingo turned his car around and drove west in the eastbound lane of the interstate, crashing head-on into a Lincoln Navigator about a mile from where the officer tried to stop the Corolla, according to the patrol.

Domingo was transported with life-threatening injuries to St. Francis Hospital in Grand Island, where he died Tuesday evening.

Jose Ulloa, a 40-year-old Oklahoma man, was driving the Lincoln. Ulloa was flown to Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha where he remains in stable condition.

Four passengers in the Navigator were treated for minor injuries.

The crash remains under investigation by the Nebraska State Patrol.
The Government last month signalled its intention to scrap the legal requirement for infected people to self-isolate on March 24, and yesterday it was claimed that it will stop releasing daily Covid updates in April.

To which I say 'Rejoice!'  but why can't we end both practices today? And, while we're about it, stop testing too.

If you think such a course sounds alarmingly precipitate, allow me to explain why there is no need to delay a moment longer.

The truth is that the advent of the highly infectious (although markedly milder) Omicron variant has changed everything.

Last week the Case Fatality Rate (CFR)  the proportion of infected people who died of Covid  was hovering at around 0.95 per cent.

That is way below the 15 per cent recorded when the death rate was at its peak in May 2020 when testing was minimal.

And since Monday, when the Office For National Statistics included 'reinfections'  people who have contracted the virus more than once  on its daily Covid dashboard for the first time, the CFR has plummeted still further.

With the addition of hundreds of thousands of cases to the weekly total, by Tuesday the CFR had fallen to 0.19 per cent, a percentage akin to that of flu, an illness which currently has a fatality rate of between 0.1 and 0.2 per cent.

The average age of death from Covid, meanwhile, remains at the pre-pandemic 82, with data from the US showing that 75 per cent of people who die with Covid have no fewer than four underlying serious conditions.

Covid has become an endemic virus that causes only mild respiratory and/or feverish symptoms  or no symptoms at all  in those infected, says Dr Renee Hoenderkamp (pictured)

All of those deaths are, of course, individual tragedies, but the fact is that most of us do not need statistics to understand that we now inhabit a very different world to the dark days of the early pandemic when there was widespread serious illness, intensive care units were full, and hospitals were in danger of being overwhelmed.

Covid has become an endemic virus that causes only mild respiratory and/or feverish symptoms  or no symptoms at all  in those infected.

We have plenty of such viruses in circulation, of course, including the common cold and various strains of influenza.

Yet we do not force everyone who develops a sniffle to test for these viruses and self-isolate if found to be a carrier. Nor do we issue daily tolls of the number of new cases.

I passionately believe it is time we adopted the same attitude to Covid.

And I know of what I speak, not just because I am a GP, but because I am one of a growing number of people who has contracted Covid twice: once in November 2020 and again last December.

I was confined to the sofa for two weeks with my first bout of Covid and it took me six weeks to get back to full fighting fitness.

I was lucky, I was not in an at-risk group. I know several people who died. By contrast, my second experience of the virus a few weeks ago amounted to little more than a two-day runny nose.

If I hadn't taken a Covid test purely in the interests of following the guidance  I would never have known I had it.

Yet, although most people who contract Covid these days don't get sick, they are having to behave as if they are, retreating behind their front doors for a week, sometimes more, their enforced absence causing havoc in workplaces everywhere, from hospitals to hospitality.

DR RENEE HOENDERKAMP: If I hadn't taken a Covid test purely in the interests of following the guidance  I would never have known I had it. (stock image of Covid lateral flow test)

Only last week I spoke to a despairing doctor friend forced to stay at home after testing positive, despite suffering nothing more serious than a bit of nasal congestion.

At my daughter's nursery all the children are expected to test if they have a runny nose, or even the faintest of coughs, and  as anyone who has a toddler knows  in winter such symptoms persist much of the time.

This means almost daily lateral flow tests, with the dread of a positive result which could keep her at home and me away from my patients.

It is the very definition of the law of unintended consequences: a system created to protect us which is now enslaving us instead.

Of course, we must still do our utmost to safeguard the vulnerable, and we owe it to them to remain vigilant and sensible.

But the reality is that we cannot continue to put healthy adults and children under house arrest for a mild illness similar to any other common respiratory infection.

Now is the moment to forget about testing and quarantine and reclaim our pre-Covid lives.

Dr Renee Hoenderkamp is an NHS GP
An 18-year-old Helena woman has been charged with felony burglary to the Montana Hospital Association building.

Police were called Dec. 15 to the building on Winnie Avenue, where an employee said she was notified Dec. 14 by a banking fraud unit that someone was trying to use the association's credit card at Walmart.

She declined the transaction and decided to investigate it at work. She said she found that someone had rifled through the office and stolen the credit card, some spare change, a backpack and the association's 2015 Nissan Murano that was valued at $17,000.

Police retrieved video that showed a woman in the building wearing the backpack who drove away in the Murano. Another employee reported hearing noises in the building late afternoon the day before but did not investigate.

Police said the card was used to buy $108 worth of items the night of Dec. 14 and an attempted purchase of $853 was declined.

Video retrieved from Walmart showed a man and a woman using the card in the store while another man was in the bathroom. They were wearing masks and hats in the store, police said.

Authorities were called Dec. 15 by Great Falls police, who said they found the Murano at a check cashing business in Great Falls. They said Darcia Cecilia-Marie Smith was trying to cash a fraudulent check. Police found a key for the Montana Hospital Association building and a blue drawstring bag stolen from the building.

Smith was charged in Lewis and Clark County Justice Court with burglary and theft, both felonies, and deceptive practices, a misdemeanor.

All charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Advertisement

The worst airline in the country is the consistently terrible Ryanair, according to a passenger survey by Which?

But only slightly better was British Airways - which once claimed to be the worlds favourite airline.

The consumer champion surveyed short-haul passengers asking about boarding procedures, cabin cleanliness, customer service and value for money.

The worst airline in the country is the consistently terrible Ryanair, according to a passenger survey by Which?

The consumer champion surveyed short-haul passengers asking about boarding procedures, cabin cleanliness, customer service and value for money

It also asked people whose flights were disrupted during the pandemic how satisfied they were with the way their airline handled the issue.

Ryanair, which has appeared in the bottom three of the Which? survey for more than a decade, received an overall customer score of 55 per cent.

It scored a lamentable 47 per cent in the refund satisfaction category. One in five respondents said it took them more than a month to get a refund.

One customer said: Ryanair is the most awkward airline to deal with that I have ever come across. It seems to be proud of being difficult. Another accused the company of a total lack of transparency about costs and treating passengers like cattle to be squeezed for the last penny.

BA was second from bottom with a customer score of 63 per cent - just behind TUI Airways

The consumer champion also surveyed passengers on the Covid precautions taken by each airline

Three-quarters named Ryanair as the airline they would never fly with.

BA was second from bottom with a customer score of 63 per cent - just behind TUI Airways, but with a much lower refund satisfaction score.

Passengers reported spending hours on hold only to be hung up on or passed endlessly between different departments.

Dutch airline KLM ranked in second place with an overall customer rating of 75 per cent

This disappointing customer service, along with two-star ratings for food and drink, seat comfort and value for money, led one passenger to describe BA as a budget style airline at premium prices.

However, BAs cabins ranked as joint cleanest alongside KLM and Jet2.

Jet2 was top of the table and its record on delivering refunds was the best. More than eight in ten were satisfied with the outcome when their flight was disrupted.

The editor of Which? Travel, Rory Boland, said: Ryanairs consistently terrible customer service has made it a fixture among the worst performers in our surveys for many years - but the airline plumbed new depths with its handling of Covid refunds.

Jet2 was top of the table and its record on delivering refunds was the best, according to Which?

BAs reputation also deservedly took a battering when it took a hard line on refunds for passengers who could not travel because they followed government health guidance.

Ryanair, which has had a long-running battle with Which?, did not comment on its findings.

In a statement, BA said: Were proud that we were the first UK airline to offer customers the flexibility to amend their plans at the beginning of the pandemic, by providing vouchers that they can use up to September 2023.

If we cancel a flight we always contact customers to offer a range of options including a full refund. Weve issued more than 4.2million refunds and have dealt with more than 3.3million voucher requests to date.

However, we know we can do better and were working hard behind the scenes, upgrading our phone systems and recruiting more people to deliver a better and faster customer experience that we know our customers deserve.

For more information visit www.which.co.uk.
ELWOOD  Its not every day one sees a house and barn rolling down the highway, but that is the sight Dawson and Gosper County residents might have seen if they were on or near Highway 283 on Jan. 20.

The house and barn were being moved from the Nisley farmstead south of Lexington to a property two miles north of Elwood.

The story of how the move took place began in the spring of 2021.

Dan Neben was returning from work on Road 433 when he passed the Nisley farmstead and noted that the property owner, Fred Nisley, had put in a corner pan on the pivot in the field adjacent to the home.

After the earlier removal of trees and other outbuildings, only the two-story farmhouse and the barn remained. He told his wife, Sarah, that something may be happening to the home.

Fred Nisley said they were indeed preparing the property so the pivot in the field could go all the way around, but the house and barn would have to go to allow for this.

According to the Dawson County GIS site, the home was built in 1926. Nisley said the first of his family to make their home there were his grandparents, Sam and Ethel Nisley. It later passed to his aunt, who rented the property.

In the late 1990s, the home was purchased by Freds parents Samuel and Ruth Nisley, who lived there for the rest of their lives. Sam died in 2000 and Ruth died at the age of 91 in 2012.

The last person to live in the home was an employee of the Nisleys, and that person moved out in 2021.

Erica Nisley Jensen said, During my childhood this home is where my grandparents lived and I grew up only 6 miles south, so we were at grandma and grandpa's a lot. I can still remember their decor and the layout of all the rooms and furniture, eating many meals with family and friends at the dining table by the windows  just writing this brings back a flood of memories.

Nisley said he hated to see such a large change come to the property but noted his children have moved away from the area. Also, when it came to the current price of land, "needs must" when it comes to farming.

Sarah Neben was familiar with the Nisley home for several reasons. It was along the drive to her parents' home along the Platte River to the east.

Additionally, she and Dan had considered purchasing the home to move to a property north of Bertrand they were renovating back in 2003 before choosing to go with a Wardcraft Home built in Minden.

Now, nearly 20 years later, the Nebens live on a property north of Elwood and were considering changes. Sarah said she reached out to Nisley to see if he would be interested in selling the structure.

Nisley met with Dan in mid-May 2021 and agreed to sell the home. Now the question became, would a move even be feasible from its current location to north of Elwood. Power lines being the primary issue.

Sarah contacted Williams Midwest House Movers, Inc., located in Hastings, in early June to look at the house, take measurements and look at a possible route.

The Nebens spent several evenings driving around rural Gosper County roads looking for a route around the power lines after the house would have to leave Highway 283 for a couple miles.

With Williams Movers agreeing the move would be feasible, the Nebens applied for a special permit from Gosper County and met with the county planning commission and commissioners in July to discuss the moving plan, the water and septic situation and their future plans for the property with two homes being on site.

With official approval from the county, the Nebens contracted Don McCandless of Lexington to dig out the basement space in mid-July.

With the basement dug, Sarah said, it was full steam ahead on preparing the site. On Aug. 7, they dug the footings for the home, with concrete pouring taking place several days later.

On Aug. 28, Dans brother, Scott Neben, an employee of Kearney Crete and Block, delivered 40 tons of 10 inch block for the foundation. The brothers spent Labor Day weekend laying the first five rows of the block.

After this initial flurry of activity, progress slowed down as Dan, an employee with Titan Machinery in Lexington, was busy during the harvest season.

It wasnt only work that had to be done at the Elwood property; the Nisley home had to be prepared for the move. Dan said he spent the first week of December taking out basement windows, knocking out eight holes for beams to go through, taking out half of the chimney and removing concrete from the back of the laundry room.

Sarah said Dans progress on laying additional rows of block was helped greatly by the mild weather conditions throughout December. He noted the process slowed some when it took having to climb scaffolding and haul the blocks up when the rows got high enough.

Dan had to take a break from the block laying to dig the footings for the Nisleys' barn, which would also be making the trip. On Dec. 23 the concrete was poured for the barn, ensuring it was in place for cold winter weather after Christmas.

Dan said he laid around 1,600 blocks overall and could manage around 60-80 each afternoon he worked.

He also noted he mixed about 4 tons of mortar in a 90-year-old cement mixer that had been owned by his late father, Lester Neben.

The last row of blocks was laid on Jan. 17, and the Nebens had contacted John Williams with Williams Movers to let him know the move could take place.

That happened a bit faster than I thought, Sarah said.

Williams handled all of the permits and coordinated with Dawson Area Public Power and Nebraska Public Power District in regard to power lines. Employees with Williams arrived to move the Nisley house off its foundation and onto the moving beams on Jan. 17, and the barn followed the next day.

Moving day was set for Jan. 20, and the morning dawned bitterly cold, with the wind chill around minus 7 degrees.

The house rolled first, followed by the barn, north on Road 433 and then west on Road 751. Even though they were rolling over pavement, the pace had to be slow because there was no suspension on the trailers carrying the structures, according to Williams Movers.

Sarah said it was a surreal feeling following what would be their home rolling down the highway.

There was also some anxiousness, mostly for the safety of the moving and electrical crews involved.

The moving train then turned south on Highway 283, but had to exit on Road 430 because of lower power lines ahead on the highway. After some stair stepping on the rural road grid, the procession rejoined the highway from Road 747 for the home stretch.

Upon arriving at the Neben property, instead of taking the driveway, the house and barn were driven around the north of the windbreak for easier access to the waiting foundations.

The 11-mile trip took a little over two hours.

Sarah said all credit goes to Williams Movers. It couldnt have gone any smoother.

With the move complete, Dan quipped to Sarah, now the real work begins. The Nebens said the first thing that needs to be done is to seal up the basement, which includes filling in any remaining holes with block and installing the basement windows.

Once the basement is finished, the area around the foundation will need to be backfilled. Finishing the basement floor will be next, as well as stairs to access the space. Dan said he then will work on hooking up the electrical lines, the furnace, water and sewer lines.

My grandparents would be astonished to know the home has been relocated and so very proud that it will provide memories for a new family and generation, Erica Nisley Jensen said.
The winter storm that delivered heavy snow to the Midwest Wednesday is forecast to result in mostly rain and ice when it arrives in Cumberland County on Friday.

The National Weather Service predicts a wintry mix of rain, snow, freezing rain and sleet for the county Friday, changing to a chance of snow after 4 p.m. The high will be in the mid-30s.

Snow and sleet accumulation of less than a half inch is possible and could result in hazardous travel conditions Friday morning, the weather service said.

The ABC27 forecast says the storm arrives as a steady rain Thursday in the Midstate, with the forecast calling for an inch of rain throughout the day in the region as temperatures reach as high as 50 degrees. The cold front moves in Thursday night, with temperatures expected top drop into the 20s.

Once the storm exits the area Friday night, cold temperatures settle back in Saturday with a high of 28 and a low of 15 expected.

The blast of frigid weather, which began arriving Tuesday night in the Midwest, put a long stretch of states from New Mexico and Colorado to Maine under winter storm warnings and watches. On Wednesday morning, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan saw freezing rain, sleet and snow.

By midday Wednesday, some places had already reported snow totals exceeding or nearing a foot, including the central Illinois town of Lewistown with 14.4 inches and the northeastern Missouri city of Hannibal with 11.5 inches.

Central Illinois and northern Indiana appeared likely to receive the most snowfall, with expected totals ranging from 12 to 18 inches by the end of Thursday, said Andrew Orrison, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in College Park, Maryland.

Snow had begun to taper off in Missouri by early afternoon but much of the state could wind up with 8 inches to a foot of snow. Parts of Michigan also could see snow totals around a foot by Thursday.
Butte police reports

Vehicle theft

An employee at Dominos Pizza called just before 1 a.m. Wednesday to say his 1995 Ford Explorer had been stolen. Police found the vehicle with the keys inside and still running in an alley in the 1600 block of B and C Streets.

An officer followed the footprints in the snow, which led to Arthur Lee Palmer, 37, of Great Falls, who took off running. Palmer fell while jumping a fence and was apprehended. He put up a struggle during the arrest and gave police a fictitious name.

He was jailed for felony motor vehicle theft and the misdemeanor offenses of obstructing justice and resisting arrest. He also had a felony warrant out of Powell County.

Latest DUIs

At around 1:45 a.m. Sunday, an officer saw a Toyota Camry in the area of Centennial traveling east with no headlights. The driver stopped and tried to get into Jokers Wild, but it was locked, and continued on with no headlights. The officer pulled over Nathan Michael LeProwse, 34, of Butte. He appeared to have been drinking and reportedly didnt do too well with field sobriety maneuvers. Taken to jail, he took a Breathalyzer and was jailed for the misdemeanor offenses of driving under the influence, operating a vehicle with expired plates, open container in the vehicle, and failure to have headlights on.

Just before 8 p.m. Sunday, an officer patrolling in the 1900 block of Meadowlark saw a truck that had crashed into a snowbank. The truck was high-centered with severe damage to the front end. The driver, Daniel Mark Garrison, 34, of Butte, approached the officer, who could smell alcohol on Garrison. He admitted he had a couple of drinks. At the jail, Garrison failed sobriety maneuvers but refused a Breathalyzer. He was jailed for the misdemeanor offenses of driving under the influence (refusal), driving without a valid drivers license and careless driving.

An officer was out on patrol at 3 a.m. Wednesday when he found a 2004 Nissan Xterra rolled onto its side at the intersection of Alabama and Caledonia. No one was in the vehicle but the officer followed the footsteps in the snow, which led him to Larry Gerald Hudson, 43, of Butte. Hudson reportedly smelled of alcohol and failed sobriety maneuvers. He was jailed for misdemeanor driving under the influence (refusal) and failure to immediately notify of an accident.

Outstanding warrants

At around 1 a.m. Sunday, an officer stopped a white SUV with no tail lights near the intersection of Montana and Aluminum streets. A passenger in the vehicle, Jonathan William Robran, 38, of Butte, had an outstanding warrant out for his arrest for violation of release condition and an out-of-jurisdiction warrant out of Park County. His bond was set at $45,000.

Katarina Ann Heath, 31, of Butte was arrested Tuesday morning on two outstanding warrants for two felony counts of revocation of sentence.

Punching the wall

Police were called to the Butte Pre-Release Center at 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Staff reported that Justice Andrew Switzer, 23, of Butte was in a holding cell where he was being uncooperative and punching holes in the wall.

He was taken to jail for felony parole violation.

Bond set at $225,000

Sean Michael Kelledy, 49, of Butte was arrested in Missoula County and transported Saturday morning to the Butte Detention Center for two counts of felony bail jumping and two felony counts of violation of release condition.

His bond has been set at $225,000.

Assist in arrest

Just after 4 p.m. Friday in the 600 block of South Colorado, officers arrived to assist Probation & Parole in the arrest of Jeanette Lynn Voss, 36, of Butte.

She was jailed for the felony offenses of probation violation and violation of release condition. She also had suspected drugs and drug paraphernalia in her possession.

Tanks taken

Early Friday morning, six propane tanks were taken from the rear of Walgreens.

Damage done

It was reported on Monday that some damage had been done to a rental property in the 2300 block of South Drive.

Stolen vehicles

A man was warming up his 2001 Oldsmobile Bravada Friday night at the Bert Mooney Airport. When he came back out, it was gone.

On Saturday night, someone took a 2013 white Ford Taurus from the 2600 block of Silver Bow Boulevard.

Shots heard

Around 10 p.m. Friday, a resident living in the 1200 block of Grizzly Trail called dispatch to report hearing six gunshots. Officers arrived but could not find anything.

Bit of a mystery

A man walked into his home at around 10 p.m. Friday and found the pictures on his walls were missing. There was no sign of forced entry and he has no idea who would do that.

Theft of packages

On Sunday morning, it was reported two packages, one containing headphones, the other a screwdriver, were taken from a residence in the 1800 block of Georgia.

Man with baton

Just after midnight Monday, a man was told by a staff member of the Richest Hill Casino that the business was closed. The man began hitting the staff member with an expanded baton. He then took off running. The case is under investigation.

Illegally entered

The facility at 3300 Harrison Ave., U-Haul Moving & Storage, was illegally entered early Monday. Taken was a DeWalt drill and the cash register.
Kevin Jenkins (L), Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (C) and Mary Holland (R) speak at Broadway Rally For Freedom in Manhattan, New York, on Oct. 16, 2021. (Enrico Trigoso/The Epoch Times)

US Officials Handling of the Pandemic Is Catastrophic Exercise in Bad Government: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. criticized federal public health officials for their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying that not enough supporting scientific evidence and data have been provided to the public to warrant the various mandates.

You just have one public official whos never been elected  no scientific citation for any of these mandates, simply telling Americans: do what youre told, Kennedy told NTD at the Defeat the Mandates rally in Washington on Jan. 23. Its all designed to instill fear and confusion in Americans, and its just a catastrophic exercise in bad government and manipulation, Kennedy added.

Kennedy said that this lack of scientific integrity has created chaos and doubt in the public, which cannot tell if mandates are based on facts or meant to scare people into compliance.

The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions Director Rochelle Walensky admitted in August 2021 that the vaccines prevent severe illness but do not stop transmission of the virus.

Our vaccines are working exceptionally well, Walensky told CNN. They continue to work well for Delta, with regard to severe illness and deaththey prevent it. But what they cant do anymore is prevent transmission.

Kennedy, along with thousands of others who attended the Defeat the Mandates Rally, wants to see an end to mandates on vaccines. Many who are already vaccinated say forcing people to vaccinate is unamerican.

Whats happening in our country is the cruelty of the mandates, the irrationality of the mandates, a violation of all of our traditional values in this country, and ultimately our humanity. And the irrationality of it all, what good is that doing to anybody? Its punitive. And its very, very sad for America, Kennedy said of the policies that prevented an unvaccinated man from getting a heart transplant.

Another criticism Kennedy had was that natural immunity has been completely overlooked by the Biden administration in the rush to require vaccines.

The natural exposure to infection is more protective over time. Now, that doesnt mean that vaccines are always worthless, what it means is that you have to carefully assess the risk from disease and risk from the vaccine, and you have to make a cost-benefit analysis. And that is really the basis of the problem here. There was never any scientific citation. There was never any democratic process, said Kennedy.

Dr. Scott Atlas, a public health policy expert, in California on April 17, 2021. (Tal Atzmon/The Epoch Times)

Dr. Scott Atlas, a former White House COVID-19 Task Force adviser during the Trump administration, also criticized officials for not recognizing natural immunity after the U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) decide to uphold the health care worker vaccine mandate on Jan. 13.

Our continued denial of superior protection in recovered individuals, with or without vaccination, compared to vaccinated individuals whove never had the infection, he said. The denial of that is simply unprecedented in modern history, proven fact and decades of fundamental immunology are somehow denied.

Atlas told The Epoch Times that the ruling is another serious denial of scientific fact specifically mentioning the denial of natural immunity in health care worker vaccine mandates.

Kennedy, who has been a long-time environmental lawyer and has litigated cases with officials for shortcutting the regulatory process, said the same process should be required before any mandate and detailed information about infections and deaths should be collected and shared with the public.

If you are managing a pandemic, in an ideal situation you have very rigorous information gathering analytics and reporting protocols, [but] what we saw was absolutely none of that, Kennedy continued. We dont know what the infection-fatality rate is. We never got the stratified data that says that elderly people are 1,000 times more at risk and that the statistical risk to the young is zero. The networks werent reporting that, nobody knew it because Fauci wasnt giving it to us.

Dr. Peter McCullough, a leading U.S. cardiologist and epidemiologist who has over 600 peer-reviewed articles under his belt, told The Epoch Times that U.S. public health officials are not abreast of the latest on prevention and treatment for COVID.

I think theyre running about nine months behind on the data. And the recent book that came out by Scott Atlas, who was on the White House Task Force, he agrees. He believes we basically have a crisis of incompetence, they dont have top-shelf doctors, like myself and Dr. Atlas, said Dr. Peter McCullough. They dont have those doctors in positions of authority running our public health agencies, and boy do we need them.

The Epoch Times reached out to the Biden administration for comment.

Allen Zhong contributed to this report.

Masooma Haq Follow Masooma Haq began reporting for The Epoch Times from Pakistan in 2008. She currently covers a variety of topics including U.S. government, culture, and entertainment.
COLUMBIA  Columbia's top elected official is pushing for a national search for the next director of the city's public housing agency.

Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, in a letter to Columbia Housing board members Jan. 31, recommended the commission employ Florida-based search firm Gans, Gans & Associates to hire its next CEO. Columbia Housing Director and CEO Ivory Mathews is leaving at the end of February for a similar post in Portland, Ore.

"The Columbia Housing Authority has faced many challenges over the last decade and will see many more in the coming years, as we work together to address the needs of our citizens," Rickenmann wrote. "A nationwide search for a transformative candidate should be a top priority of the leadership at CHA."

Gans, Gans & Associates promotes itself as one of a select number of firms specializing in national searched for public housing and nonprofit executives. The firm has worked with housing authorities throughout the country, including Tampa, Baltimore and San Francisco, according to the company.

The firm was a recommendation from Rickenmann consulting former federal housing officials, a spokesman for the mayor said. While the seven-member housing board oversees the organization's operations, the mayor appoints its members.

Mathews' resignation was accepted by the board in January. She has led the agency since July 2019.

Mathews will head Home Forward, the Portland housing authority, as the first African American woman to hold the position, Columbia Housing said in a release.

Yvonda Bean, Columbia Housing's chief operating officer, has been named the interim director. Mathews has endorsed Bean as her permanent replacement.

Efforts to reach housing board chairman Ernest Cromartie III were not successful.

In a statement, the board acknowledged Rickenmann's proposal and said it welcomed the input of city leaders and looked forward to sitting down with the mayor. The board expressed confidence in Bean's selection as interim director, noting experience in more than two years as operating chief and having previously served as CEO of a housing authority in Lafayette, La.

"It is important to all of us that we have solid leadership as we more forward," the board's statement said. "Our citizens deserve no less."
SYDNEY, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The emergency department in Western Australia(WA) has issued warnings of two separate bushfires in the state's southwest and the capital of Perth.

The blaze in Perth started in the suburb of Canning Mills and it has burned at least 96 hectares of land so far.

The bushfire in WA's southwest town Kirup is also at emergency warning level, which is moving "slowly" in a northwestern direction.

The state's Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) said the bushfire warnings were initially issued on Tuesday, and more than 200 people were on-site battling the blaze.

The two fires are currently stationary compared to the beginning, but the warnings remained in place due to the wind intensity.

"The wind intensity has increased overnight and put pressure on containment lines," the DFES said.

"It is (still) not contained or controlled. There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is approaching in the area and conditions are changing."

The DFES advised people to leave now for a safer place, otherwise, they should seek shelter in their homes and keep water running through the indoor settings if possible.

"Choose a room with two exits and water such as a kitchen or laundry," the DFES warned. 
Essential workers in NSW face the prospect of being sacked unless they get a Covid vaccine booster shot under a new demand from the Labor Party.

Opposition Leader Chris Minns called on the NSW Government to mandate a third dose for workers such as those in health, education, and aged care.

A mandatory vaccination requirement of two doses is already in place for some industries, but Labor wants NSW to follow Victoria's model.

Premier Daniel Andrews wants national cabinet to change the definition of 'fully vaccinated' to mean three doses of a Covid-19 vaccine.

A young woman (pictured) gets the Pfizer vaccine. The NSW Labor Party has called for a third vaccine dose to be mandated for essential workers in the state

'There has already been some mandating done for third doses and there will be more,' Mr Andrews said.

'Whether that's popular or not, that's not my concern. Politics doesn't work against this virus, you've got to make difficult decisions and then push forward from there.'

Mr Minns wants this replicated in NSW, starting with mandating boosters for essential workers and moving on to the rest of the population.

'Since the omicron variant has spread through the community, [NSW chief health officer] Kerry Chant has made it clear that three doses is now the standard,' he said.

Only 43.71 per cent of adults in NSW have had their booster shot  the lowest in the country.

Mr Minns said getting boosted was key to keeping people safe and the economy operating.

'We can't accept that NSW is last in booster take-up. The NSW Government has to do more to lift the booster rate,' he said.

'I'm urging the NSW government to follow the Victorian Government. Make three doses the new requirement.'

About two-thirds of people aged over 70 in NSW have had a vaccination dose, but fewer than a third of people under 40 have had the extra shot.

'I encourage every mum, dad and grandparent to tell their younger family members there is no time to waste. Get the jab,' NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard said.

Two shot vaccine mandates are already in place in NSW in areas such as health care (pictured)

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation extended Pfizer booster approval to include 16- and 17-year-olds.

Anyone over 15 who had their second dose at least three months ago is eligible to receive a third shot at state hubs, GPs, and pharmacies.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said it was 'more likely than not' the definition of vaccinated would soon change.

'That's my expectation, but we want everybody to be boostered in any event,' he said on the Today show on Thursday morning.

To help drive booster shot uptake, NSW Labor also wants essential workers to get half a day's leave - as in Victoria - to get a third vaccine dose.

State Labor leader Chris Minns wants NSW to follow Daniel Andrews and Victoria on vaccine mandates

'Vaccine mandates must reflect reality  three doses is what's needed to keep everyone safe,' NSW shadow health minister Ryan Park said.

'Our essential workers have done an incredible job during this pandemic. They will lead the way on boosters, and we should be supporting them to do so.'

The opposition also wants a strengthened booster marketing campaign, priority access for essential workers, and clarity on how long to wait to get boosted if you've recently had Covid.

Australian chief medical officer Paul Kelly said on Thursday that the country has passed the peak of Omicron infections.

But he warns another wave, alongside a flu wave, is expected in winter.

The NSW Labor Party wants essential workers mandated to have a third vaccine shot

'I think we will have a flu wave in winter for the first time ... since the beginning of 2020,' he said.

Professor Kelly stressed the death rate from Omicron was just 0.1 per cent as the federal government faced intense scrutiny over high numbers of deaths in aged care.

'Because of the better clinical care and the surge capacity we are putting into the sector, because of our very skilled health staff working at the frontline, because of all of those things, we have a spectacularly low rate of death,' he said.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Mr Hazzard's office seeking comment on Labor's proposal to mandate a third booster shot for essential workers in NSW.
The U.S. added over 900kb/d to supply in H2-2021, with only Saudi Arabia adding more.

The energy sector's bull run shows no signs of slowing down, with the sector closing comfortably at the top of Tuesday's S&P sector standings, even as crude oil prices barely budged. The energy sector's favorite benchmark, Energy Select Sector SPDR ETF (NYSEARCA:XLE), is now up 23.0% year-to-date vs. -4.6% return by the S&P 500. Oil prices have continued their early-year strength, with front-month Brent recording five days of higher intra-day lows and three days of higher intra-day highs over the past week.

Brent blend for April delivery, the current front-month contract, settled at USD 89.26 per barrel (bbl) on 31 January, a w/w gain of USD 3.83/bbl. March Brent expired at USD 91.21/bbl on 31 January, a seven-year high front-month settlement, and reached a seven-year intraday high of USD 91.70/bbl on 28 January. Brent blend for delivery five years out has not settled above USD 70/bbl since 22 July 2015 but is now within range of that mark, having gained USD 0.87/bbl w/w to settle at USD 69.13/bbl on 31 January.

U.S. natural gas prices have been driven sharply higher by the cold snap on the East Coast, with the February Henry Hub contract gaining USD 0.999 per million British thermal units (mmBtu) w/w to settle at USD 4.874/mmBtu. The January contract expired on 27 January, reaching a 13-year high of USD 7.46/mmBtu intra-day before expiring at USD 6.265/mmBtu. Weather in U.S. gas-consuming areas has been colder than normal for the past two weeks; the American Gas Association (AGA) estimates that there were 248 gas consumption-weighted degree days in the week ending 29 January, 27 more than usual. The cumulative number of degree-days since the start of October stands at 2,396, 344 less than normal.

The OPEC joint technical committee met on Tuesday, ahead of the ministerial meeting on Wednesday, to discuss oil-market fundamentals. The group has predicted an oil surplus in 2022 to clock in at 1.3mb/d on average, versus its prior forecast of 1.4mb/d, according to the Reuters.

Sources close to the group indicate that OPEC+ is likely to stick to its 400kb/d monthly production hike, while Goldman Sachs expects the cartel to announce a ramp in production quotas by 800kb/d in Wednesday's meeting. The OPEC+ production target has been raised by 400kb/d seven times at monthly meetings since the current agreement was reached in July 2021.

Interestingly, Wall Street punters Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, and Morgan Stanley see deficits in 2022 while OPEC, the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) have all forecast substantial oil surpluses.

And yet another oil and commodity expert has thrown a cautionary note that a surplus could be building in the oil markets at a faster-than-expected clip.

Flying under the radar

In its latest commodity update dated Feb. 1, Standard Chartered says a surge in U.S. oil output in Q4-2021 has gone largely unnoticed by the oil market and oil analysts.

StanChart notes that in October 2021, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) forecast that U.S. oil liquids supply (excluding refinery processing gains) would be 17.86 million barrels per day (mb/d) the following month. However, the analysts estimate (using revised data published in the EIA Petroleum Supply Monthly' PSM' on 31 January) that U.S. oil supply actually averaged 18.795mb/d in November, a m/m increase of 352 thousand barrels per day (kb/d). That's a good 935kb/d higher than the above EIA forecast and just 375kb/d (1.96%) below January 2020's all-time high.

Related: U.S. Natural Gas Prices Jump 10% On Arctic Blast



The U.S. added over 900kb/d to supply in H2-2021, with only Saudi Arabia adding more.

StanChart says the surge in U.S. production is evident in the latest set of earnings reports by oil companies, with 2.018mb/d of Q4 oil liquids output having been reported so far, a q/q increase of 98kb/d (5.1%). Company guidance suggests that the surge is likely to continue, in particular by Big Oil with ExxonMobil (NYSE:XOM) saying its target is to increase its Permian output by 25% while Chevron (NYSE:CVX) has projected full-year growth of 10% for its Permian output for a similar period.

The surge in U.S. supply runs counter to the market narrative by investment bank proponents of an oil super-cycle. Growth in U.S. supply was predicted to be limited in 2021 because of investor pressure for dividends rather than growth. However, StanChart analysts say that many analysts missed the fact that at current prices, oil and gas companies can significantly increase both dividends and capex.

Indeed, the analysts have predicted that we will see substantial upward revisions to 2022 U.S oil supply growth are likely from agencies, consultants and Wall Street analysts. If U.S. supply merely stays at its November 2021 level throughout 2022, annual average growth would still surpass 1mb/d, more than the current U.S. supply growth forecasts by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the OPEC Secretariat.

StanChart says it expects U.S. oil supply to continue to surprise on the upside in 2022, and that this surge will not remain under the market radar for much longer.

Capital discipline

Luckily for the bulls, the banker says U.S. production growth will not continue indefinitely, and independent producers will be forced to stick to capital discipline.

The commodity experts have forecast that growth will slow in 2023 and beyond, with production growth from independent publicly-listed companies becoming crimped even at higher price levels weighed down by ESG mandates, shareholder demands for capex discipline and pressure to return capital, rising service costs and underinvestment affecting the drilling of new wells.

Further, the key factor for supply growth in several regions is whether drilling will ramp up fast enough to offset any reduction in the completion of DUCs. Without extra drilling, growth is likely to slow, and for now, there are no signs in the Bakken and Niobrara in particular of any upswing in activity going by the latest Baker-Hughes data.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced that the implementation of the Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy) would be done in three phases.

In a letter written by the Director General of GRA, Rev. Dr. Ammishadai Owusu-Amoah to ARP Apex Bank , it is asking the bank to get ready for the implementation process.

While we await the passage of the Bill into Law, I wish to inform you to hold yourself in readiness for the implementation of the levy in three (3) phases as soon as the Bill is passed into Law, the letter cited by ModernGhana News reads.

The GRA notes that it is in the process of developing a platform for the full implementation of the Electronic Transaction Levy.

The GRA is currenthy developing a monitoring platform for the full implementation of the e-Levy and would be inviting you to collaborate with its Technical Team in this respect, the GRA statement adds.

Government through the E-Levy is seeking to charge Ghanaians a tax of 1.75% on financial transactions done electronically.

Although Ken Ofori-Atta has revised the charge to 1.50%, the Minority in Parliament remain against the levy and has stressed that it will use all legitimate means to kick against it.

Find a copy of the GRA statement below:
UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe: UN Under-Secretary.General Rosemary DiCarlo (front) speaks with U.S. Permanent Representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield (profile) amid general confusion.

The United States and its allies called a meeting of the UN Security Council on 31 January 2022, to forestall the Russian threat against Ukraine.

At the start of the session, Russia and China tried unsuccessfully to change the agenda. It was the last day of Norways rotating presidency of the council, before Russias turn for the month of February.

The session resulted in an artillery barrage against Russia, while the latter, supported by China, held her ground.

Kenyas representative, Ambassador Martin Kimani, expressed concern that the new Cold War could transform tensions in Africa into an East-West confrontation.
On December 13, 2021, the Berlin Administrative Court dismissed the lawsuit lodged by the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party, SGP) in January 2019. The SGP sued the German Ministry of the Interior because the Verfassungsschutz (Office for the Protection of the Constitution, as the German secret service is called) had listed it as a left-wing extremist organisation in its annual report and put it under surveillance. The judgement and the court opinion, which is now available in writing, constitute a fundamental attack on democratic rights. They aim to ban socialist ideas and any criticism of capitalism.

The verdict is exclusively politically motivated. It dismisses the SGPs case not because the party opposes democracy and freedom, but because it defends them and openly states that they are incompatible with a social order that concentrates wealth and economic power in the hands of a tiny minority. In the tradition of Bismarcks anti-socialist laws and the Gesinnungsstrafrecht (legal prosecution of opinions) of the Nazis, the court and its presiding judge Wilfried Peters declare any demand for the democratisation of the economy and any doubts about state institutions to be unconstitutional.

With its judgement, the court is reacting to the growing opposition to massive social inequality, the profits before lives policy in the pandemic and horrendous levels of military spending. Anyone who calls these policies in the interests of the rich by their name is to be muzzled. Almost 90 years after the Nazis came to power, socialist ideas are to be criminalised again.

The judgement targets the SGP because it provides this opposition with a voice and a socialist perspective, but it is also directed against anyone who criticises capitalism and rejects the governments right-wing policies. Based on this judgement, every author who refers positively to the Marxist classics, every sociologist who examines the effects of social inequality on society, every journalist who sheds light on the right-wing terrorist networks in the armed forces and every striking worker could be declared an enemy of the constitution.

We therefore appeal to all those who want to defend democratic rights and confront the right-wing danger to support the SGPs lawsuit. We will not accept the decision of the Administrative Court and have already applied for an appeal to the Berlin Higher Administrative Court. Support us in this, sign our petition on Change.org, register as an active supporter and share this statement among your acquaintances and friends.

The judgement in detail

The court explicitly justifies the classification of the SGP as left-wing extremist and its surveillance by the Verfassungsschutz on the grounds that it advocates a Marxist perspective. Because the SGP does not engage in historical reflection, but pursues a political agenda based on the writings of Marx, Engels, Trotsky and Lenin, it is directed against the liberal democratic basic order, according to the judgement.

In fact, almost all democratic rights in this country were won through the struggles of the Marxist workers movement. Even the limited parliamentary order could only be established in 1919 after the workers and soldiers councils had overthrown the Kaiser. Ultimately, it was only the workers parties that voted against the enabling act providing Hitler with dictatorial powers. It was the Trotskyists, who fought for a united front perspective at the time, which would have been able to stop the Nazis.

When the court refers to the liberal democratic basic order, it does not mean the basic democratic rights fought for by the Marxist workers movement, but the protection of capitalism against the majority of the population. Like Bismarck and Hitler before, it wants to ban any party that rests on Marx, Engels, Lenin or Trotsky.

The court does not deny that the SGP wants to achieve its goal of a socialist society by democratic means and to win the majority of the population for this. It refers to the statement in the SGPs Declaration of Principles that the decision on these and other democratic changes will be made by the masses themselves and that workers must vigorously defend all democratic rights in the struggle for power.

It is this programme of democratic control over all areas of social life, including the economy, by the masses themselves, which the court declares anti-constitutional. Any statement that glaring social inequality is incompatible with democracy, that the power of the big banks and corporations runs counter to genuine popular government, or that the organs of the state serve the interests of the rich, should be banned, according to the court. This is what the judgement says:

If the organs established under the Basic Law (constitution) merely serve a capitalist class to maintain power, although according to the constitution they have the legitimacy of the entire people, it is obvious that the new organs envisaged by the plaintiff must have a legitimacy different from this. For if the new organs could also be traced back to the will of the entire people, nothing would in fact change in the circumstances criticised by the plaintiff. This suggests that the plaintiff has in mind a system of [workers] councils for the new organs that is incompatible with the parliamentary democracy of the Basic Law.

The core of this verbiage is that any questioning of the democratic legitimacy of the state institutions is declared unconstitutional. Elsewhere, the court prohibits the SGPs view that the state organs represent the interests of the capitalists and must therefore be replaced by truly democratic organs. For: Although according to Article 20 (2) paragraph 1 GG [Grundgesetz, constitution] all state power derives from the people, the plaintiff claims that the state is not legitimised by the entire people.

Thus, were a mass movement of the vast majority of the population to deny the legitimacy of the state organs, expropriate the big banks and corporations and democratise the economy, this, according to the court, is directed against a mystified will of the entire people, which finds its absolute expression in the state organs. By these organs, the court expressly means the state apparatus of repression:

The fact that the plaintiff has an understanding of democracy that deviates from the conception of the Basic Law is shown, finally, by the fact that in paragraph 24 of the Statement of Principles, it denigrates institutions of the state that are legitimised in accordance with the Basic Lawnamely the Verfassungsschutz and the Bundeswehr [Federal Armed Forces]as undemocratic and directed against the people.

This is the language of dictatorship. Not the declared will of the majority of the population, but the institutions of the state must be protected. This argumentation has nothing to do with the protection of a liberal democratic basic order but aims to defend the state institutions against a democratic movement.

Trumps attempted coup in the USA on January 6, 2021 showed how acute the danger is of authoritarian tendencies in the state apparatus. In Germany, the army and police are riddled with far-right terrorist networks, and the Verfassungsschutz is closely intertwined with the neo-Nazi scene.

The same anti-democratic logic permeates the entire judgement. Thus, the court states that the use of terms such as socialism, revolution and capitalism is only permissible if they refer to a transformation of the economic-political relations. If, however, the effects of the economic system on politics are addressedfor example by the vernacular that money makes the world go roundthis is unconstitutional according to the court.

Marxism in particular is anti-constitutional, in the courts eyes, because according to the Marxist understanding, capitalism can never be limited to the economic system alone. Rather, according to it, the totality of the relations of production constitutes the economic structure of society, the real foundation, on which arises a legal and political superstructure.

Since the dictates of the banks and corporations are becoming more and more obvious, the court wants to prohibit any reference to them. Accordingly, it declares the transformation of society according to socialist principles unconstitutional because this goes beyond a mere change in economic policy.

In delivering the courts oral judgement, presiding judge Peters even elevated the market-based property system to a law of liberty and declared the SGPs criticism of it, as well as the questioning of the private ownership of the means of production unconstitutional. He thus elevated the exploitation of people to a supreme fundamental right that must be defended even against the declared will of the vast majority.

The court also wants to ban any policy that proceeds from the existing class antagonisms. This is what the judgement says:

The plaintiff is free to say that the differentiation of society into classes is a scientifically recognised and widely used instrument for the analysis of societies. However, the plaintiff does not conduct sociological studies of society, but its party programme is based on the division of society into classes. This is clearly oriented towards class struggle.

So, according to the court, one is allowed to name the existing class antagonisms, but one is not allowed to derive political conclusions from them. In fact, this absurd formulation means any discussion of social inequality would end up being banned. When, for example, the British charity Oxfam states in this years poverty report that inequality is at its greatest level in history and that only systemic solutions will do to combat economic violence at its roots and lay the foundations for a more equal world, this is unconstitutional, according to the court.

The partisan nature of the judgement is also evident from the determination of the amount in dispute. Instead of the usual 5,000 euros in such cases, the judge has summarily set the amount in dispute at 20,000 euros, which increases the court costs and the costs for an appeal enormously. The courts flimsy justification was the fact that the SGP had not only applied for deletion of the entry about it from the 2017 Verfassungsschutz report, but also from those in the following years, which, however, were almost identical and thus do not justify a quadrupling of costs. Moreover, the court itself is responsible for the fact that the SGP had to file subsequent applications, because it delayed the initial hearing for almost three years.

The stench of fascism

The Administrative Courts ruling must be seen as part of an international development; the turn by ruling circles towards authoritarian and fascist methods. In the USA, the Republican Party continues to back Donald Trump, who tried to prevent the election of his successor Joe Biden through a coup and is seeking to establish an authoritarian dictatorship. Here, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is the first far-right party to sit in parliament since the fall of the Nazis. It has been integrated into parliamentary work by the other parties and sets the governments line on refugee policy and in many other areas. Right-wing extremist terrorist networks are promoted and protected by the state security apparatus.

The attack on the SGP is a central component of this shift to the right. It was first included in the Verfassungsschutz annual report in 2018. At the time, the agency was headed by right-wing extremist Hans-Georg Maassen.

When the SGP filed a suit against this, the Federal Ministry of the Interior responded with a 56-page brief that is not a legal document but an angry diatribe against socialism. The ministry declared that even arguing for an egalitarian, democratic and socialist society and agitating against supposed imperialism and militarism were anti-constitutional. It even wanted to ban thinking in class categories and the belief in the existence of irreconcilably opposed competing classes.

The court has now backed this anti-democratic view and gone even further. Its argument that even a majority of the people must not be allowed to change the state organs because these embody the will of the entire people is not only directed against a socialist mass movement, but against elementary democratic principles.

Already the American Declaration of Independence of 1776 had proclaimed the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, whenever any form of Government becomes destructive of the ends of Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

The ruling by the Berlin Administrative Court does not rest on this democratic tradition, but on the authoritarian tradition of the Kaisers Empire, which declared the state order to be the highest good and banned social democracy on this basis.

The jurist Carl Schmitt, who later supported the Nazis, took up this ideological tradition in the Weimar Republic to justify the necessity of a commissarial dictatorship to suppress the revolution. Later, he justified the presidential dictatorships of Von Papen and Schleicher by arguing that the Reich President was the guardian of the constitution. As such, he had to protect the political unity of the entire German people from parliament, which, as a reflection of the social and economic clashes of interests, i.e., class contradictions, contributed to the disintegration of the state.

From there it was only a small step to the glorification of the Fuhrer. In 1934, Schmitt defended the reprehensible murder of 200 of Hitlers rivals after the alleged Rohm putsch in his infamous paper, The Fuhrer Protects the Law. In his Constitutional Law, published in 1937, Schmitts student Ernst Rudolf Huber then strictly demarcated the objective will of the people from subjective popular convictions, which were determined by social conflicts of interest. The actual bearer of the will of the people, however, remains the Fuhrer, he declared. Even if the voting population turn against him, it is he who embodies the objective calling of the people.

It is not surprising, given this legal tradition, that Judge Peters rejects any historical references. Already in the oral judgement he had declared: Today we have heard a lot of historical things, about Bismarcks laws, arguments about Karl Marx, etc., but all that is not relevant here.

With that alone he lost all legitimacy. It is not possible to talk about democracy in Germany, let alone denounce a party as anti-constitutional, without drawing the lessons of this historical experience. Hitler was able to come to power in Germany through legal and democratic means, the entire judicial and civil service apparatus, with a few honourable exceptions, served his dictatorship and helped him organise the war of extermination and the Holocaust.

But for the court, this is not relevant. Instead, it justified the SGPs anti-constitutionality, among other things, on the grounds that Leon Trotsky had called in 1938 for the arming of the proletariat in the struggle against fascism, whichas the SGPs representatives explained in courtwould have been the only way to prevent the Second World War and the Holocaust.

In its brief, the Interior Ministry had cited Trotskys call as evidence that the Trotskyist SGP fought against the liberal democratic basic order. The court agrees with this in its written judgement. The court rejected the argument of the SGP, that references to Leon Trotsky must be evaluated in their historical contextin this case, in the context of fascismbecause the party pursued a political agenda based on Trotsky.

Thus, if a political party takes the position that the Nazi regime should have been overthrown in 1938 by an armed uprising of the working class, this is against the liberal democratic basic order! Judge Peters could not express his viewpoint that the state apparatus under all circumstances represents the will of the entire people more clearly.

The ban on the KPD

In its anti-democratic orientation, the court quite openly violates applicable law and supreme court jurisprudence. The law on the Bundesverfassungsschutz, on which the judgement is officially based, does not allow for such an interpretation at all. This law, which itself represents a massive restriction of the constitutionally guaranteed freedom of expression, explicitly does not include capitalism and private property among the principles of the liberal democratic basic order that are worthy of protection.

The Supreme Court also explicitly stated in its judgement against the ban of the fascist German National Party (NPD) on January 17, 2017 that it was not the rejection of the state organs, but only the attack on the possibility of equal participation of all citizens in the process of political decision-making and on the linking back of the exercise of state power to the people that was to be considered anti-constitutional. The judgement explicitly states:

The rejection of parliamentarism, if it is combined with the demand for its replacement by a plebiscitary system, thus cannot justify the accusation of disregard for the liberal democratic basic order. However, the situation is different in the case of deprecating parliament with the aim of establishing a one-party system.

This ruling was cited both by the SGPs lawyer Peer Stolle in his briefs, and by the SGPs representatives in court. But Judge Peters deliberately ignored the references to the case law. Instead, he bases his written ruling almost entirely on the 1956 judgement on the ban of the German Communist Party (KPD).

This also underlines the reactionary and anti-democratic tradition in which the action against the SGP stands. The judgement against the KPD from the time of the Cold War has long been discredited. The then president of the Supreme Court, Jutta Limbach, had already stated in 1996 that she would have rejected the ban according to applicable constitutional principles. The historian Professor Josef Foschepoth, who has thoroughly researched the KPD trial by evaluating previously inaccessible state files, concludes in his book Unconstitutional! published in 2017, that the KPD verdict blatantly violated the constitution and was politically motivated. There were no longer separate powers in these proceedings, but only one state, which, under pressure from the federal government, insisted that the KPD be banned, Foschepoth writes.

The Adenauer government was represented in this case by the same radical right-wing circles that had already played an active role in the persecution of communists under the Nazis. The head of the federal governments litigation office was Hans Ritter von Lex, who as a Reichstag member of the Bavarian Peoples Party (BVP) had declared his partys approval for Hitlers Enabling Act on 23 March 1933. Only a few days before, in a personal conversation, he had assured Hitler that he shared his goal of eradicating Marxism in Germany.

That the German people be freed from this contamination, even by using the strictest methods, was the common demand of all patriotic-minded circles, he said.

Judge Peters is using this ruling by former Nazi lawyers to ban socialist ideas altogether. Without citing any evidence, he accuses the Trotskyist SGP, employing the words of the KPD verdict, of advocating a one-party dictatorship in which state power is concentrated with one state party something the Trotskyist movement has always rejected with regard to the Stalinised Soviet Union and the former East Germany.

In view of the omnipotence of the state party and its sole insight into political necessities, the governments accountability to the peoples representation and even more the formation and exercise of a parliamentary opposition are excluded, Peters develops his lying construct. In such a polity, human rights are not guaranteed.

With this falsehood, which Judge Peters does not even bother to substantiate, he identifies the Trotskyist movement with the Stalinist crimes against which it was founded. In doing so, Peters deliberately ignores the statements made by Stolle in his briefs and by the SGP representatives in court. They explicitly rejected the identification of Stalinism and Trotskyism at the hearing, stating:

In reality, Trotsky and the Left Opposition defended the Marxist principles embodied in the October Revolution against Stalinist counter-revolution. From the outset, these principles included democracy in the Soviet Union and an orientation toward international socialist revolution. The unbridgeable chasm between Stalinist tyranny and genuine socialist principles was revealed in the Great Purges of the 1930s, during which hundreds of thousands of communists were murdered on charges of Trotskyism. In the German Democratic Republic (East Germany), Trotskyists like Oskar Hippe, who fought against the Stalinists for democracy and socialism, were sentenced to long prison terms.

That Judge Peters simply brushes aside these issues confirms he has delivered a political verdict aimed at criminalising Marxism and any serious opposition to the governments right-wing policies.

The political significance of the judgement

The courts effort to criminalise any questioning of the legitimacy of the state institutions, any criticism of capitalist society and any advocacy of a socialist transformation is an expression of the ruling classs panic-stricken dread of growing social opposition. It fears that the widespread rejection of a policy that places the profits of the rich before the vital interests of the great mass of working people and is arming for war is taking on a conscious and organised form.

As in an Orwellian dystopia, the court feels it can forbid the stating of the obvious. The class character of the state, which the court wants to prohibit from being named, has become particularly evident in the pandemic. In Germany alone, over 115,000 people have already died because the ruling class prioritizes its profits over peoples lives. The whole of society is being deliberately infected to keep businesses running, profits flowing and share prices rising.

While the big corporations received hundreds of billions in taxpayers money, nurses must slave away in hospitals that have been cut to the bone and schools which are not even equipped with rudimentary air filters. In the first year of the pandemic alone, the worlds billionaires increased their fortunes by a staggering 60 percent to $13 trillion, while at the same time another 160 million people were plunged into absolute poverty and struggle to survive.

Under the pretext of restructuring, hundreds of thousands of jobs are being cut, wages reduced, and social benefits slashed. The only budget being massively expanded is for armaments. Since 2014, the defence budget has been increased by over 30 percent. The coalition of the Social Democrats, Liberal Democrats and Greens is increasing it even further and has adopted a confrontational course with the nuclear powers Russia and China, risking a new world war.

These policies are hated in the population. Conceptions the court wants to ban are widely shared: that the government pursues policies in the interests of the rich; that the state serves to enforce these policies; and that society must be transformed along socialist lines.

On January 30, 1933, Germanys ruling class concluded it could only realise its war plans and crush the workers movement with a regime led by the Nazis. Today, it is once again resorting to authoritarian methods to counter opposition to its right-wing policies.

The inclusion of the SGP in the Verfassungsschutz annual report, its defamation as left-wing extremist and its surveillance by the intelligence agencies are essential steps in this direction. The judgement paves the legal path for banning the party. But the anti-democratic argumentation of the federal government and the court are directed against anyone who opposes the right-wing danger and criticises capitalism.

But 2022 is not 1933. The judgement was not made following massive defeats of the working class, but under conditions of a growing radicalisation. In Germany, Europe and around the world, a new mass movement of the working class is developing to fight back against deliberate mass infection, war, and inequality.

Under these conditions, the defence of the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei is crucial. We once again call on all WSWS readers to sign our petition on Change.org today, make as generous a donation as possible towards our legal costs, and register as an active supporter. Share this statement and discuss it on social media and with friends and colleagues.
I can't think of a more fitting start to this story than to point out it's the same one I wrote last year, with some dates changed to reflect two years into the pandemic instead of one.

Don't be bothered. You probably never read it last year, and if you did, you've long forgotten it. But read on. It's just as relevant then as it is now. Welcome to life on auto-repeat, where we take you back to this question the film "Groundhog Day" poses:

"What would you do if you were stuck in one place, and every day was exactly the same, and nothing that you did mattered?"

That's what a depressed Phil Connors (played by actor Bill Murray) asks two men at a bar as he contemplates the bleak fate of repeating Groundhog Day over and over. One of them answers: "That about sums it up for me."

That about sums it up for a lot of people over the last two years. As lockdowns went into place, many of us were initially reminded of the film as a useful shorthand description of our new normal. No real travel. No commutes. No classrooms. Every day the same, all blurring together.

Art doesn't just imitate life. Great art helps frame life and give it meaning. I've previously made the case that the movie "Groundhog Day" is great art, full of practical and religious insights. And early on in the pandemic, I embraced the Groundhog Day-ness of our lives.

When our lockdown began, I set my morning alarm to the audio from the film: Sonny and Cher's "I Got You Babe" followed by the radio DJ dialogue of "OK campers, rise and shine, and don't forget your booties 'cause it's cooooold out there today..."

Just as Phil initially and selfishly embraces his temporal loop in the movie, I found some aspects of our new normal great. Working from home. Seeing my family all the time. Running and meditating on the regular. I had some creative projects I'd been wanting to tackle for years and dug in.

Then, like the plot of the film, the initial enthusiasm wore off. The word "indefinitely" felt more like a Sisyphean curse than an opportunity. I had nothing brilliant to show for my creative endeavors. Meditating got spotty. Some of my friends began struggling. Fear dictated daily decision-making. People I know got very sick. And above everything brewed a grim storm of pandemic death tolls, racial injustice and political rancor. Act 2 of "Groundhog Day" is dark. Phil enters a deep depression; even suicide is no escape for him.

Then Act 3 rescues the perpetual day. Phil comes back around to finding the upsides of being stuck in a skipping record of time. Only this phase is more enlightened. He uses the time for the service of others and in self-improvement. He masters the day, each one getting closer to perfection. Arguably, especially from a Buddhist perspective, this effort is what frees him from his time prison.

As we each pass or approach year two of the pandemic, "Groundhog Day" still has lessons on how to manage our own loop. The last act of the film reminds us to focus on three areas that bring us closer to happiness if we can muster the effort.

Do the right thing

Phil's perfect day includes fixing someone's flat tire, catching a kid who falls out of a tree and preventing a man from choking at dinner. These are each a part of his daily round of mitzvahs.

It's worth thinking about what that looks like for us in the context of family, friends and neighbors. Maybe it's connecting more, or giving gifts of time, empathy and humor. From a public health point of view, it means avoiding indoor spaces except when necessary, masking up in public spaces, washing your hands regularly and keeping your distance. We know the drill. We just have to keep doing it a little while longer.

There's a parable by Leo Tolstoy titled "The Three Questions" about how we should live our lives. The three answers all boil down to one philosophy: The most important thing to do is do good for those around you, right now.

Of course, we're tired of the vigilance after living it for so long. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't keep doing it, or that we can't. By one estimate, Phil repeats Groundhog Day for nearly 34 years. If you want a nonfiction benchmark, Anne Frank lived in hiding in Amsterdam during World War II for more than two years. Even as you continue to make personal and travel-related sacrifices, keep fixing those flat tires, keep wearing your mask over your nose. Please.

"Do not do great things," the writer, teacher and pacifist Colman McCarthy said, passing on wisdom handed to him by Mother Teresa. "Do small things in a great way."

It's the little things

Small things can also be sources of profound joy.

Stuck in our own Punxsutawneys -- the Pennsylvania town where the real-life, and movie, Groundhog Day celebration takes place -- many have been denied the things in life that make us happy such as traveling, socializing indoors and visiting extended family.

But if we're lucky (and I know many are not), we may have more opportunities now to appreciate fundamental aspects of life we can still enjoy, the kind of details we tended to overlook and take for granted back in our formerly overextended lives. There is deep contentment to be found in activities such as cooking, talking with and reading to our children, walks though nature, bonding with pets, listening to music, gazing at stars, playing board games, watching great movies, reading good books.

Now could be a good time to start or restart a gratitude journal or share with others what you're grateful for. Numerous studies have shown this simple act of counting one's blessings increases satisfaction with life.

Variety is the spice of life

In Act 3 of "Groundhog Day," Phil memorizes French poetry and learns to sculpt ice and play the piano. He may be stuck in the same place, but he retains his memories and builds skills that way.

Now in our own Act 3, we may be burned out on sourdough bread making, but it's not too late to still take up new skills. My wife restarted fiddle lessons. I've picked up a memoir project that had gone dormant. My older daughter has doubled down on her bullet journaling. We try to hike in new places. My wife and younger daughter made care packages for those asking for help along freeway exits in our town. If you're bored, try to do something new, even safely within the confines of our current state.

Or as Phil gleefully says when he finally wakes up to the day after Groundhog Day: "Anything different is good."

The-CNN-Wire

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Police on Wednesday said they had obtained an arrest warrant for Bleckley County Sheriff Kris Coody in connection with an alleged sexual-battery incident in mid-January at an upscale hotel on Atlantas north side.

Cobb County police announced the development in a news release, which noted that the alleged incident happened the evening of Jan. 18 at Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel just across Interstate 285 from Truist Park.

The news release did not mention many details but said the warrant for Coody, 57, of Cochran, was sought following a thorough investigation ... with statements gathered from multiple available witnesses.

The police statement further noted that the matter remains an active sexual battery investigation.

The hotel where the alleged incident happened was at the time hosting the Georgia Sheriffs Associations three-day Winter Training Conference.

The warrant for Coody was issued Friday. It was unclear whether Coody had been arrested as of late Wednesday.
Social scientist Dr. Lawrence Eppard is joined by Bob Inglis, a former Republican South Carolina Congressman, to talk about how conservative principles can help solve the problem of climate change, the future of the GOP, and more.
Plans have been drawn up to make Portlaoise the European HQ for a media company focused religious broadcasting.

Shalom Media Ireland has applied to Laois County Coucil for permission to construct a new recording studio with offices and a chapel at on a site at Lismard Business Park off the town's Timahoe Road.

Engineers acting for Shalom, which is part of an international network, have told council planners that a site has been purchased from Don Morrissey of Lismard Developments.

The council has been informed that if permission is granted, Shalom will build "their European offices and a recording studio onsite". A chapel is also proposed.

The council was also informed that Shalom Media Ireland currently film Mass services from local churches for live streaming. They say the planned facility will be used for recording purposes for 'invited guests' and services will not be generally open to the public.

Shalom Media Ireland is currently renting a premises at the Old Parochial House in Portlaoise.

Shalom Media Ireland is part of Shalom Media which describes itself as a leader in television geared towards educating, engaging, informing, and inspiring viewers in the faith.

Shalom says it offers a variety of original programs produced at our global production houses in the USA, Canada, Australia, India, Singapore, Rome, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Shalom says it offers its English and Malayalam language channels to several regions and will be expanding its reach in the years ahead.

Founded in India, Shalom Media describes itself as an international, multi-faceted media ministry that has been serving the Church and God's people for over 25 years.
In a strange quirk of ongoing pandemic-related shortages, there has hardly been a bottle of Jameson Irish Whiskey to be found at any bar in western Montana for nearly two months.

That's according to multiple bar owners and liquor store managers.

Even in Butte, with its rich Irish history, the upcoming St. Patricks Day celebration will most likely not feature the coveted spirit.

We only have two precious bottles left that weve been saving for St. Patricks Day, said Lacey Clements, a bartender at Maloneys, an Irish bar on Main Street. Itll be first-come, first-served. All of the liquor stores are out and theyve told us any more bottles are still a month or so away.

James Pops Jones, a co-owner of The Press Box bar and liquor store in Missoula, said hes been out of Jameson for about a month and a half.

We get all of our stuff from Grizzly Liquor, so whatever theyre out of we dont get, he said. Grizzly Liquor gets their inventory from the state. Ive heard theres nothing coming in soon. Theres no light at the end of the tunnel. Some of the other bourbons have been out for six months.

Jones has other Irish whiskeys like Tullamore D.E.W., but he usually sells about 10 12-bottle cases a month of Jameson.

We usually go through a bottle of Jameson every other day, depending on the time of year, Jones explained.

Adie Smith, a bartender at the Thomas Meagher Bar, an Irish pub in Missoula, said theyve also been out of the original Jameson for over a month. They have plenty of the other Jameson products, like Black Barrel and an aged stout edition, so she said customers are being forced to try new flavors of the whiskey.

Still, she said, they get a request for the original almost every day.

Jackson Satt at Grizzly Liquor, a state-contracted liquor store in Missoula, said Jameson ran out before Christmas.

We are one of two state stores in Missoula  the other is KrisCo Liquor, he explained. We get our inventory on a semi every week and it comes from the state warehouse. They dont have an estimated date of when they would have Jameson.

People come in almost every day looking for Jameson, he said.

For a lot of the bars in town, Jameson is really important for bar sales, he said. A lot of places use Jameson for their beer and a shot thing around town. So its really affecting alcohol consumption. We go through probably a dozen cases, easy, every week at least.

By law, any spirit must mature on the island of Ireland for three years to be able to call itself Irish. Jamesons website says their original Irish Whiskey is aged at least four years, but theres no acknowledgement of any shortage.

The problem appears to be unique to Montana. The Idaho State Liquor Store on Sherman Avenue in Coeur dAlene had Jameson on Wednesday, as did Discount Liquor in Evanston, Wyoming. Not everywhere in Montana is sold out, either. A bartender at Cassidys Bar and Lounge in Plentywood, in the far northeast corner of the state, said they had plenty.

The Missoulian sent an email to the Montana Department of Revenue, which controls liquor distribution in Montana, asking why Montana cant get hold of the stuff. A spokesperson said she would try to get information but that didnt happen as of press time Wednesday.

Montana is one of 17 alcoholic beverage control states, where the state government regulates liquor, beer and wine sales by acting as the only wholesaler of alcoholic beverages in addition to issuing licenses. However, in Montana, the state is only in charge of wholesale operations for distilled spirits. Idaho and Wyoming are also control states.

Many states are experiencing liquor shortages during the pandemic, according to a report by National Public Radio last year. Thats due to supply chain issues, like increased shipping costs, but also because producers have to anticipate demand many years in advance.

Jones at the Press Box in Missoula said the Jameson shortage is just another headache caused by the pandemic.

We couldnt get jumbo chicken wings for a while either, he said. Theres a lot of things like that on the restaurant side of it. Its ridiculous. Its been an interesting couple years, Ill tell you that.
The London Hilton (Ian West/PA) (PA Archive)

Hotel chain Hilton is aiming to recruit 1,000 new employees this year under its expansion plans.

Jobs on offer include apprentice chefs, housekeepers and beauty therapists as well as managerial roles.

Hilton also announced plans to open a number of new hotels in 2022, including in Bath Silverstone and London.

We are utterly thrilled to see the green shoots of recovery and welcome all prospective candidates to apply online, and find out more about the many varied opportunities available

Julie Baker, Hilton

Around 4,000 staff were taken on last year despite the impact of the virus crisis, the company said.

Julie Baker, UK & Ireland vice president operations at Hilton said: Whether youre looking for better flexibility, career progression or want to embrace something completely new, Hilton truly prides itself on creating an award-winning workplace culture where team members are nurtured and can thrive.

We are utterly thrilled to see the green shoots of recovery and welcome all prospective candidates to apply online, and find out more about the many varied opportunities available.
Irish health officials have warned that the level of Covid-19 infection in Ireland will remain high into the near future.

The chief medical officer also indicated on Wednesday that the exact future of the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) is yet to be determined, as Ireland hopes to move beyond the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The appearance of Dr Tony Holohan, alongside other officials, at a Oireachtas health committee meeting on Wednesday came less than two weeks after the Government announced a major easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

Many politicians took the opportunity to look back retrospectively on Irelands handling of the pandemic, as well as probing what lessons have been learned from the last two years.

Politicians also repeatedly paid tribute to the work of Dr Holohan and his colleagues since the pandemic began.

In his opening statement, Dr Holohan said the current epidemiological situation is broadly positive and that the country is in a much improved situation.

Key indicators such as case numbers, hospital and ICU admissions and demand for testing are all reducing.

However, he also warned the pandemic is not over, and that other variants of concerns are likely to emerge after Omicron.

Taking questions from TDs and senators, the chief medical officer doubled down on that warning.

Dr Holohan warned that he expects a high level of infection to continue into the future.

He also said that health officials had noticed a slight increase in transmission levels among 19 to 24-year-olds.

We will keep a close eye on that. Were not expressing major concern about that at this point in time, Dr Holohan said.

You should assume you are going to encounter this virus, even if it is inadvertent, he warned.

Urging people to get vaccinated and boosted, he said: You can see we have very, very high levels of infection, and our view is that these high levels of infection are likely to continue for some time.

Responding to another question from Fine Gael TD Bernard Durkan, the chief medical officer said health officials were not resting complacently on the high level of vaccination in Ireland  a level that is among the highest in Europe.

Later asked by People Before Profit TD Gino Kenny what he might have done differently during the pandemic, Dr Holohan said: We are still in the middle of something.

We still have to be prepared for something to happen and happen quite quickly.

The first reports of Omicron began to emerge in the last days of the month of November and, by Christmas, we were we were in a very, very different situation in the country.

Thats how quickly things can happen, and we have to be ready to ensure that things can happen and respond as quickly as that.

Dr Holohan, appearing alongside deputy chief medical officer Dr Ronan Glynn and chairman of Nphets Modelling Advisory Group Prof Philip Nolan, was also quizzed on the future of Nphet.

Taking questions from Sinn Fein TD David Cullinane, he indicated that the exact future of Nphet was not yet decided.

Dr Holohan said it would ultimately be a decision for the minister.

What I can say is that we will still need advice.

We still need advice which is multi-disciplinary in nature and which is capable of informing the decisions ultimately the Government has to take, which are difficult decisions, balanced decisions that have to in the first instance reflect public health considerations.

We have a further meeting of the Nphet to give consideration to the ongoing need for the restrictions that are still in place as they relate to schools, as it relates to mask wearing through the regulations.

Dr Holohan also indicated that health officials were giving thought to the future of contact tracing, testing and other parts of the infrastructure that sprung up as the pandemic emerged two years ago.

He said that further advice would be issued to Government, but indicated that in the future not everyone may receive a regular booster jab.

It may well be that recommendations are not focused on the whole population, but people with particular vulnerabilities, he told the committee.

Asked later about the uptake of booster jabs in recent weeks, Dr Glynn said: The uptake of boosters in a general sense has certainly slowed since the Christmas to New Year period.

We think that, if you take the proportion of people who have been boosted and then the proportion who cannot be boosted because they have recently been infected, theyre awaiting a booster in a month or twos time, we estimate that 80% of all those eligible to be boosted have been boosted.

In his opening statement, the chief medical officer had told politicians there will be an ongoing need to retain Covid-19 measures such as mask wearing, and recommended the continued use of protective measures in schools.

The policy on mask wearing for school children is set to be reviewed at the end of February.

Fianna Fail TD Cathal Crowe had asked the Nphet members if a decision could be expedited, describing mask wearing as still a struggle in primary schools

Dr Glynn said the review will be completed in February.

He said: At the time, we made a commitment that we would review that recommendation in February with a view towards either continuing with it, or stepping it down from the time the children are back, after the mid-term break. And so were in the process of reviewing that evidence at the moment.

We need much more research to better understand the spectrum that is long Covid

He said a key part of the rationale was to give children an opportunity to get vaccinated.

One issue that also recurred at the committee was the relationship between politicians and health officials over the course of the pandemic.

Dr Holohan told Fianna Fail TD John Lahart that the relationship had been functional and said that on many occasions he was forced to give advice he would have preferred not to.

We take all of those measures and responsibilities seriously. Weve always done that to the best of our ability. And I would say when we look back in time that that relationship was functional.

He said that in the majority of cases the Government, acting on the advice of health officials, had made good calls during the pandemic.

The chief medical officer also once again defended the attitude of health officials to antigen testing, which has often placed them at odds with politicians and the public.

Dr Holohan said that the advice from Nphet has not changed on antigen testing, which he said should not be used as a green light.

Our concern is that it must be used in the right circumstances, when disease incidence is high. And then the interpretation of both the positive and negative result needs to be right and inform peoples behaviour.

Asked by multiple politicians about long Covid, Dr Glynn said the data remains unclear what proportion of people will suffer from the condition and said it was very debated among the scientific community.

He said the HSE was putting into place a model of care for long Covid.

We need much more research to better understand the spectrum that is long Covid, he added.
The head of HM Revenue and Customs insisted yesterday that it offers a decent service  despite one call in five going unanswered.

Chief executive Jim Harra told MPs he did not have the resources to ensure customer service was brilliant.

Almost two years after the pandemic began, HMRC data shows only 79 per cent of callers got through to an adviser in November.

The head of HM Revenue and Customs Jim Harra (pictured) insisted yesterday that it offers a decent service  despite one call in five going unanswered and callers waiting 12 minutes

The most recent call-waiting times show taxpayers are spending more than 12 minutes on average waiting to get through.

But Mr Harra told the Treasury committee he did not have the resources to ensure all calls were answered.

I believe the level of performance that we have reached gives taxpayers a decent service in that they can contact us, they can transact with us at peak times.

Some of them may have to call back but they will get through, he said.

Mr Harra said that if he were a Treasury official, the taxmans customer service department would perhaps not be where he would spend spare funds.

MPs also quizzed him and his deputy Angela MacDonald over HMRCs failure to respond to postal queries.

Jim Harra told MPs HMRC did not have the resources to ensure customer service was brilliant

Mr Harra said HMRC aimed to reply to 80 per cent of these within 15 days.

However, only 41 per cent are being answered within this target, down from 47.9 per cent the previous month.

He revealed that the Omicron variant and the Governments Plan B restrictions over the winter may have added up to 3 billion to the UKs tax debt.

HMRC previously estimated it would reach 33 billion by the end of the tax year but now says it could hit 36 billion.
Online attacks targeting public figures should be considered as a specific hate crime, a cyber-psychologist has recommended.

Mary Aiken, a professor of cyberpsychology and chairwoman of the Department of Cyberpsychology at Washington DCs STEM University, said that politicians are subjected to online abuse by trolls.

Prof Aiken told the Joint Media Committee, that the Oireachtas should consider making it an offence to abuse public figures online as part of the forthcoming Online Safety and Media Regulation Bill.

She made the comments during a debate on online disinformation and media literacy.

When I look at how politicians are targeted on social media platforms, the question in my mind is why would anyone in their right mind want to go into politics in this day and age, Prof Aiken said.

Why would you want to put yourself through this when young people see how you are targeted and how family members can be targeted and how nuggets of information can be taken and blown out of context.

This is trolling.

Trolling is a manifestation of everyday sadism.

Do we want have platforms where sadists are actively encouraged to deploy for their own amusement and particularly target public figures.

I think the targeted of public figures it is a very important to consider.

The cyber expert said that while online activism is important, there is a rise of the cyber pitchfork mob where people are subjected to the cancel culture and removed from social media platforms.

She said this can happen without due process or a fair hearing or an evidence-based approach.

We have seen this form of cancel culture because there is a lack of legislation to address these issues, Prof Aiken added.

The internet abhors a vacuum and what happens is that people step in to self-regulate.

We have seen social media platforms self-regulating for far too long.

This is the crux of the problem.

I think there is a delicate balance to be struck between freedom of speech, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and censorship.

Its very complex and you can have overlay between misinformation and disinformation.

She said that a major issue in tackling the removal of disinformation is that comments are posted in real time.

She told the committee that a specialist expert group could be established to help advise what could be considered misinformation and disinformation in Ireland and the European Union.

The committee was told that it could be created with specifics to Irish issues.

In order to identify something that is disinformation in a cyber context, you need to have a classifier system. Before that you have to create a taxonomy, Prof Aiken added.

You can classify an online harm and you have a decision tree built around that classifier.

The problem is to do that in an automated way, we have to invest considerable resources in these automatic data identifiers.

She added: We are seeing the rise of cyber anti-vigilantism, where particulars or people are targeted, people come together and you get these pile-ons and it can be extremely stressful for their person on the receiving end of that.

There are ways to tackle it.

You can look at repeat offenders, you can look at how organised it is, if there is political intent behind what is manifesting.

Meanwhile, Dr Eileen Culloty, assistant professor in the School of Communications at DCU, raised issues about the lack of powers to compel social media companies to share information about its users.

Its a pretty crazy situation to be in that we have companies that have this information but there is no instrument to compel them to share it with people, Dr Culloty added.

Brian ONeill, professor of media and communications and director of research at Technological University Dublin, said the reach of media literacy campaigns needs to be maximised.

In 2020, the Media Literacy Ireland campaign turned its focus to accurate and reliable information about Covid-19 and vaccines.

Mr ONeill said that vulnerable people and those who are least likely to be able to access high quality resources are in need of targeted measures.

I would stress that the general awareness raising is a long-term process, he added.

It has to be the responsibility for regulatory agencies to monitor on an ongoing basis to ensure media literacy is there on their radar.
A Ukrainian border guard patrols the border with Russia not far from Hoptivka village, Kharkiv region, Ukraine, Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin is accusing the U.S. and its allies of ignoring Russia's top security demands but says Moscow is willing to talk more to ease tensions over Ukraine. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)
RINGGOLD  The aircraft that crashed Tuesday off Cardwell Lane near the Pittsylvania County Fairgrounds had descended about 1,200 feet when it was last tracked at 10:06 a.m. that day, according to an investigator with the National Transportation Safety Board.

We believe the accident happened probably a minute or so later, NTSB Air Safety Investigator Lynn Spencer told reporters during a news conference at the fairgrounds Wednesday afternoon.

A pilot, who has not been publicly identified, died in the crash that occurred about a half-mile west of the fairgrounds in a heavily wooded area off Cardwell Lane.

The operator of the 1977 Cessna 310R airplane was Sol Aerial Surveys, Spencer said.

On behalf of the NTSB, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the friends and family and colleagues of the [victim] of this tragic accident, said Spencer, with the NTSBs Eastern Regional Office in Ashburn.

The NTSB is in the preliminary part of its investigation and will be at the crash site for about two to four days, Spencer said.

The Federal Aviation Administration, Virginia State Police, Ringgold Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Pittsylvania County Public Safety and the Pittsylvania County Sheriffs Office are assisting with the investigation, she said.

Ringgold Volunteer Fire & Rescue Chief Mike Neal gave an account of the minutes after receiving a call of a small aircraft down at 2:01 p.m. Tuesday.

The area where the plane crashed was thick woods and crews tried to access the crash site by dirt roads that narrowed down to pathways, Neal said. There was also a creek.

We had three four-wheel-drive pickups at the entrances to three different dirt roads, Neal said.

Ringgold Fire & Rescue personnel took its Gator, a four-wheel drive ATV, to get to the site he said.

It was probably three- or four-tenths of a mile into the woods [off Cardwell Lane], Neal said. A small road became a path and went into total thickets.

Crews arrived at the area about 10 minutes after receiving the call, but it took nearly a half-hour after being dispatched to find the wreckage, Neal said.

The victim was found near the plane, he said.

An ambulance from Ringgold Fire and Rescue also responded, and the Virginia State Police, Pittsylvania County Sheriffs Office, Pittsylvania County Public Safety, the NTSB and the FAA were also on the scene, Neal said.

As far as I know, there were no eyewitnesses to the crash, he said.

At around 10:03 a.m., the plane departed Danville Regional Airport and climbed to about 2,300 feet before beginning a descent in the southeastern direction, Spencer said.

The last radar track shows the aircraft at about 1,100 at about 10:06 a.m. before the plane crashed about a minute later, she said.

The debris field left by the crash is about 125 yards long, she said.

For the next few days, we are going to be here on scene collecting evidence and trying to talk to witnesses, Spencer said.

A preliminary report with additional information will come out in about two weeks, she said. A factual report, followed by a probable cause determination, will be issued in about 12 to 18 months.

This is a very highly fragmented debris field, she said. Its a lot of small pieces that will take a little bit longer to really document.

Anyone who saw or heard anything can call the NTSB hotline at 866-328-6347 or send an email to witness@ntsb.gov.

As part of the investigation, the plane will be sent to Dover, Delaware, where we will continue our examination of the aircraft, Spencer said.

Were going to make sure we have all pieces of the aircraft, she said. We are going to look at failure models, fracture surfaces. Were going to be looking at the environment, the weather, the terrain.

Whether the crash was caused by mechanical failure or human error is unknown, she said. The pilot was a commercial pilot, she said.

Were going to be looking at the pilot, she said. Were going to be looking at his training, his qualifications, his ... experience, his fitness for duty, his health.

Robert Katz, a commercial pilot and flight instructor in Dallas, said the Cessna 310R is a very reliable airplane if properly operated and maintained.

As for what he believed caused the crash, My guess is it was an engine failure upon takeoff, Katz said.

However, the older a plane gets, the more expensive it is to maintain, he said.
New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to visit Chhattisgarh`s Raipur on Thursday (February 3) to lay the foundation stone of `Amar Jawan Jyoti` and inaugurate Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhumiheen Krishi Mazduur Yojana.

According to an official statement, Amar Jawan Jyoti will be constructed on the premises of the 4th Battalion, Chhattisgarh Armed Forces Mana, Raipur. The flame of Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti will continue to be lit in honour of the martyrs.

"We will honour the martyrdom of the sons of Chhattisgarh who sacrificed their lives for the country by joining uniformed services, as well as the Bravehearts of the country who sacrificed their lives in Chhattisgarh through `Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti`," said Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel.

Amar Jawan Jyoti at Chhattisgarh

The announcement of reinstating an eternal flame at Raipur comes amid the controversy that arose after the Centre decided to merge the Amar Jawan Jyoti at New Delhis India Gate with the one at the New War Memorial.

As per the announcement, this Amar Jawan Jyoti will be complemented by a wall with names of Martyrs, a memorial tower and a VVIP platform will also be set up.

The wall will be constructed with brown marble with the names of Martyrs engraved on the same. This crescent-shaped wall will be about 25 feet high having a length of about 100 feet, and the thickness of this wall will be 3 feet.

The memorial tower will be set up of sandstone, brown white marble granite in front of a crescent-shaped wall.

A memento will be made on its top. Rifle and helmet will be in the form of insignia on the base in front of the memorial tower. The flame of Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti will be lit in front of this symbol which will be ignited 24 hours by fuel supply through underground pipelines.

A fort-like two-storey building will be constructed just in front of the memorial tower, the length of the base of which will be 150 feet and the width will be 90 feet.

Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Yojna

Rahul Gandhi will also inaugurate the Chhattisgarh government`s Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhumiheen Krishi Mazduur Yojana. Under this scheme, the Chhattisgarh government will give annual financial aid of Rs 6000 to rural landless families.

The registration for the scheme was started last year in September.

(With ANI inputs)

Live TV
XINING, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- A traceability system has been developed by the agricultural authority in northwest China's plateau province of Qinghai to promote yak and Tibetan sheep husbandry.

Qinghai is China's main production area for yaks and Tibetan sheep, with stocks respectively accounting for approximately 38 percent and 40 percent of the country's total.

Hai Ying, deputy director of the quality and safety supervision of agricultural products at the provincial department of agriculture and rural affairs, said the quality and safety traceability system for yaks and Tibetan sheep covers animal husbandry sectors in four tiers, from the provincial level to the township level.

She said that the whole quality control process can so far be traced for 4 million yaks and sheep raised on 64,185 private farms, cooperatives or ranches.

Traceable information includes breeders, the use of medicine for epidemic prevention, and insurance details.

"Electronic traceable ear tags are required for all calves and sheep 30-90 days after birth in all 39 farming and pastoral counties of Qinghai. The province's traceability platform automatically generates QR codes for consumers to query the product information," Hai said.

According to the department of agriculture and rural affairs, the provincial government allocated 150 million yuan (about 23.6 million U.S. dollars) from 2019 to 2021 to the establishment of the livestock quality traceability system.

Department data shows that by the end of 2020, Qinghai had stocks of 6 million yaks and 11 million Tibetan sheep. 
A U.S. senator was resting in the hospital Wednesday after suffering a stroke from which he is expected to recover fully, although it poses problems for the Democrats' agenda until his return.

Ben Ray Lujan, 49, underwent brain surgery to relieve swelling late last week and remains hospitalized, according to his office, which added that he was expected back at work in four to six weeks "barring any complications."

As he recovers, Democrats effectively lose their advantage in the Senate, which is split 50-50, with Vice President Kamala Harris wielding the tie-breaking vote.

Unlike in the House, senators must vote in person.

Party rank-and-file members fear that advancing White House priorities such as a stalled social spending bill and a Supreme Court justice confirmation on a party-line vote may now prove complicated.

A brain bleed in 2006 took Democrat Tim Johnson out of Senate action for around nine months when he was 59 years old, while Republican Mark Kirk's stroke in 2012 laid him low for a full year at age 52.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer paid tribute to "one of the most beloved members of this body" and said senators were hopeful the freshman member from New Mexico would be "back to his old self before long."

Lujan's chief of staff, Carlos Sanchez, said in a statement the senator began experiencing dizziness and fatigue on Thursday last week and checked himself into the hospital, where the stroke was identified.

'Life is precious'

"As part of his treatment plan, he subsequently underwent decompressive surgery to ease swelling," Sanchez said.

President Joe Biden plans to announce his nominee to replace retiring Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer by the end of this month and has vowed to pick a Black woman.

The first Senate confirmation hearings would not likely take place until several weeks later, with a vote expected in late March at the earliest.

But Biden will need at least one Republican vote if Lujan's recovery takes more than a few weeks.

Ketanji Brown Jackson, the early favorite to replace Breyer, won support from three Republican senators last year when she moved up to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals.

In the meantime, Schumer will likely focus on judicial nominations or legislation with clear cross-party backing.

A government funding deal or a Russian sanctions package would likely be unaffected, but without Lujan, the planned resurrection of the Build Back Better social welfare and environment spending package appears dead.

And the prospects for legislation aimed at ending supply chain woes and countering competition from China in the next month are also on shaky ground.

According to the Congressional Research Service, the average age of senators at the beginning of the year was 64 years and four months, making it the oldest in history.

The White House was asked in a news conference for Biden's thoughts on trying to pass legislation with a majority so precarious that any senator falling sick can upend his plans.

"Life is precious, as we know. You're ... familiar with the average age of senators in the Senate, but that is true on both sides of the aisle," Biden press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters.

"So, I would just say we spend most of our time engaging in good faith about the president's agenda and not making those calculations."
An elderly man died in a Tuesday night house fire in the Cascade area of Pittsylvania County.

Shortly after 9 p.m., the Pittsylvania County 911 center received a call about a home ablaze at Apostolic Drive, county spokesperson Caleb Ayers reported.

On arrival, the firefighters observed the structure was 50% engulfed in fire, Ayers wrote in a news release. Firefighters had information that an elderly male lived in the residence.

Firefighters found the body of a deceased elderly male in the residence while performing search and rescue operations, Ayers said.

The Pittsylvania County Public Safety Department, Pittsylvania County Fire Marshals, and investigators from the Pittsylvania County Sheriffs Office are conducting an investigation into the origin and cause of the fire, as well as the cause of death of the deceased, whose name is being withheld until the Medical Examiner can make a positive identification, he wrote in an email.

Crews from Cascade Fire and Rescue, Bachelors Hall Fire and Rescue, Brosville Fire and Rescue and Tunstall Fire and Rescue responded to the call.

No other details were immediately available.
By Steve Gorman

(Reuters) - The highly anticipated rollout of NASA's big new moon rocket to its launch pad in Florida for final tests before a first flight has been delayed by at least a month, until March at the earliest, the U.S. space agency said on Wednesday.

NASA, which late last year had targeted liftoff this month for its uncrewed Artemis 1 mission around the moon and back, declined to set a revised launch date, but the delay would preclude a flight before April.

At a briefing for reporters, NASA executives said there were no specific, major difficulties slowing their schedule, but rather a higher-than-usual volume of technical hurdles to clear in preparing a large, complex rocket system for its very first launch.

"It's really what I would call a kind of punch list of a whole bunch of things that we absolutely need to finish up and then we'll be ready to roll the vehicle out," said Tom Whitmeyer, a deputy associate NASA administrator.

NASA officials said workforce and supply disruptions related to the recent Omicron-driven surge in COVID-19 infections also were factors in slowing down the work.

At stake is the combined fate of NASA's heavy-lift Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion crew capsule it will send aloft for the Artemis program, aimed at returning humans to the moon and eventually establishing a long-term lunar colony as a precursor to sending astronauts to Mars.

The U.S. Apollo program sent six astronauts to the lunar surface between 1969 and 1972, the only crewed spaceflights yet to achieve that feat.

In November, NASA announced that it would aim to achieve the first crewed lunar landing of Artemis, named for the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology, as early as 2025.

But the space agency has several spaceflight stepping stones to meet before it gets there, starting with a successful maiden flight of the SLS and Orion, now in the final stages of pre-launch preparations.

Rollout of the towering spacecraft, a key milestone marking the public's first glimpse of the newly assembled, 36-story-tall rocket-and-capsule vehicle as it is moved, had recently been planned for mid-February.

Story continues

Under the updated timeframe outlined on Wednesday, the SLS-Orion will be trundled out on a giant crawler-transporter in March - probably around the middle of the month - from its assembly building to Launch Pad 39-B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Once there, it will take about two weeks for technicians to ready the launch vehicle for a "wet dress rehearsal" that includes fully loading the rocket's fuel tanks with propellant and running through a simulated countdown.

Afterward, NASA will roll the SLS-Orion stack back into the assembly building for a last round of checks before officially setting a new target liftoff date.

In a statement on Wednesday, NASA said it was reviewing launch windows in April and May, but the timeline could slip further depending on the outcome of the dress rehearsal, space agency officials said.

(Reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
Research News

Social media use tied to poor physical health

While for decades researchers have looked at how social media engagement relates to users mental health, its effects on physical health have not been thoroughly investigated.

By BERT GAMBINI

Its critical that we understand how engagement across these platforms contributes to physical health. 

Social media use has been linked to biological and psychological indicators associated with poor physical health among college students, according to the results of a new study by a UB researcher.

Research participants who used social media excessively were found to have higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a biological marker of chronic inflammation that predicts serious illnesses, such as diabetes, certain cancers and cardiovascular disease. In addition to elevated CRP levels, results suggest higher social media use was also related to somatic symptoms, like headaches, chest and back pains, and more frequent visits to doctors and health centers for the treatment of illness.

Social media use has become an integral part of many young adults daily lives, says David Lee, the papers first author and assistant professor of communication, College of Arts and Sciences. Its critical that we understand how engagement across these platforms contributes to physical health.

The findings appear in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking.

For decades, researchers have devoted attention to how social media engagement relates to users mental health, but its effects on physical health have not been thoroughly investigated. Recent surveys indicate social media usage is particularly high for people in their late teens and early 20s, a population that spends about six hours a day texting, online or using social media. And though a few studies have found links between social media usage and physical health, that research relied largely on self-reporting or the effects of usage with exclusively one platform.

Our goal was to extend prior work by examining how social media use across several platforms is associated with physical health outcomes measured with biological, behavioral and self-report measures, says Lee, an expert on health outcomes related to social interactions.

Researchers recruited a diverse sample of 251 undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 24 for the study. Blood samples were collected through finger sticks, and participants also completed questionnaires on physical health and social media usage on Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram, the most popular platforms at the time the data were collected in 2017. Those responses were crosschecked with another survey that measured validity by determining the degree to which participants took their role in the study seriously.

We were able to establish a correlation between the amount of social media use and these physical health indicators, said Lee. The more participants used social media, the more somatic symptoms they experienced and visits to the doctor they reported. They also showed higher levels of chronic inflammation.

Lee says this study is just the beginning of understanding the relationship between social media and physical health.

By looking at a biological marker in the blood, we were able to find a relatively more objective association between social media usage and physical health, but this correlational finding cant rule out the possibility that poor health impacts social media usage, Lee says.

Lee says the aphorism could hold true with social media use and physical health: The rich get richer while the poor get poorer. In our previous research, we found those high in self-esteem benefited from using social media, but people low in self-esteem did not. So, the effect may be more nuanced.

Theres still work to be done, Lee says. But right now, I wanted to get the word out there that social media use may have a link to important physical health outcomes.

Lees research team for the current study included colleagues from The Ohio State University: Tao Jiang, a graduate student; Jennifer Crocker, professor of social psychology; and Baldwin Way, associate professor of psychology.
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In the end, it will all come down to hardliners in Washington and Tehran. Months of indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran have failed to bring either country back into the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action after Donald Trump, in one of the greatest own-goals of his presidency, withdrew from the pact in 2018 and imposed harsh sanctions on the Persian Gulf nation. Tehran responded by expanding its nuclear program in breach of the accord.

That there is no agreement  and no firm prospect of one before the self-imposed mid-February deadline  is making everyone nervous. Led by the five other world powers still party to the accord, China, France, Germany, Russia and the U.K., the talks intensified in January and are now in what negotiators describe as the final stage. A senior U.S. State Department official told a briefing Monday the process was entering the end game.

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Iran wants sanctions lifted. The U.S. wants Tehran to walk back its advanced centrifuges and stockpiles. Then there are questions over the sequencing, the order in which each step will occur. If these cant be resolved, the U.S. official said that the world would be facing a reality of mounting tensions and crisis. Even senior leaders in Israel, whose previous government had run a bitter campaign against the pact, now regret the JCPOA withdrawal and call it a terrible mistake, the official said.

Reviving the 2015 agreement is a high-stakes game. If it fails, Iran could be the next country to exit the 1968 Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, as North Korea did in 2003, said Ankit Panda, the Stanton Senior Fellow in the nuclear policy program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. That would put at risk any progress on the development of a nuclear weapons free zone for the Middle East, he noted. (Thats aside from Israel, which, as the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute estimates in its 2021 report, has 90 nuclear weapons.) It could also prompt other countries, especially Saudi Arabia, to follow suit.

Since the U.S. withdrew from the deal, Iran has made significant leaps in its nuclear program  particularly over the last 12 months  including raising uranium enrichment to 60%, its highest level ever. Although theres no evidence of weaponization, the breakout time (what it would take for Iran to produce enough weapons-grade enriched uranium fuel for a nuclear weapon) is now just a matter of weeks, as opposed to a year. It is impossible, Panda told me, to unlearn these advances. This is knowledge that they have gained and can be used to further develop weapons.

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Even an interim pact, which some Iran watchers say has been proposed on the sidelines but is not a favored option, will need serious incentives to get hardliners in President Ebrahim Raisis regime to agree. That will involve allowing the nation, with the worlds No. 2 gas and No. 4 oil reserves, to return to international markets. A more difficult ask is Raisis demand for guarantees that a future U.S. administration wont quit the deal as Trump did. This would be impossible for President Joe Biden to nail down with Iran hawks in his own party, let alone with Republicans.

Given Irans mastery of advanced centrifuges, the country would also need to dismantle the machines, destroy the corresponding electronic infrastructure and mothball their assembly lines, the International Crisis Group wrote in its Jan. 17 report on the talks. Tehran says these actions are beyond its JCPOA commitments.

U.S. sanctions under its maximum pressure posture have made life unbearable for Iranians, and a far cry from the resistance economy myth perpetuated by the regime. But while much had been made of the threat of Irans nuclear development to the U.S. and Israel, tensions in the wider region are also on the rise. In the third attack in a month, the United Arab Emirates on Monday intercepted a ballistic missile fired by Iran-backed Houthi fighters, further blowback from its involvement in the nearly seven-year war in Yemen. While the UAE has mostly exited the conflict, as did the U.S. last year, Saudi Arabia has continued its bombing campaign and has suffered rebel-led attacks on its oil installations.

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Other Gulf states are escalating their diplomatic efforts in an attempt to push the deal closer to reality and patch up their own differences with Iran. Qatars ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, met Biden in the White House on Monday in the first visit of a Gulf Cooperation Council leader since he assumed the presidency. Youd hope the nuclear pact was on their agenda, along with Ukraine and Afghanistan. That follows a visit to Tehran on Jan. 27 by Qatars foreign minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, soon after his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amirabdollahian, said Iran would consider direct negotiations with Washington if a good deal was on offer.

Irans Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Saeed Khatibzadeh, said Monday his government had presented negotiators in Vienna with a written initiative that could result in a reliable, sustainable deal if Washington agreed, according to the Islamic Republic News Agency.

But for now, negotiators have thrown the onus back on their political leaders for the next move. A failure to return to the accord will be a significant step backward in the push to stave off a nuclear arms race, which is a risk neither side can afford. As Sanam Vakil, deputy director and senior research fellow at Chatham Houses Middle East and North Africa program told me: The U.S. and Iran are the main players in this drama  they need to talk.

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Lets hope that happens, and that Biden and Raisi are able to win over their domestic audiences and re-enter the fold. Well all be a lot safer for it.

More From Bloomberg Opinion:

 Biden Should Stay Cautious When It Comes to Iran: Editorial

 Irans Economic Resilience Is a Mirage: Bobby Ghosh

 Trumps Failed Gamble on Iran Deal Was Still Worth It: Eli Lake

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Ruth Pollard is a columnist and editor with Bloomberg Opinion. Previously she was South and Southeast Asia Government team leader at Bloomberg News. She has reported from India and across the Middle East and focuses on foreign policy, defense and security.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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The global body for peace United Nations Security Council on Thursday (February 3) called for an immediate cessation of violence and reaffirmed support for the country's democratic transition throughout Myanmar as the country's military coup entered a second year.

What has the UN said?

In a statement approved by all 15 members, the council expressed deep concern at the continuing state of emergency imposed by Myanmar's military rulers a year ago and the dramatic increase in humanitarian need, particularly among women, children and vulnerable groups, against the backdrop of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The UN's most powerful body also reiterated its call for the release of all those who remain arbitrarily detained, including Aung San Suu Kyi, whose elected government was ousted by the military on Feb 1 2021.

Council members also reiterated their full support for the role of the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations in facilitating a peaceful solution and reiterated their calls for swift implementation of ASEAN's five-point consensus adopted last April that includes an immediate halt to violence, starting a dialogue among all parties.

The Security Council also addressed the plight of the Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state.

Myanmar military coup

On February 1, 2021, The Myanmar military carried out a coup in the state ousting the elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi to return to its pre-democratic military era before 2015.

Amid massive outrage following the undemocratic coup, military commander-in-chief Min Aung Hlaing had taken the power in Myanmar and elected leader Suu Kyi, who campaigned to restore democracy in the 1990s has been sentenced to six years in jail for violating the country's official secrets act, possessing illegal walkie-talkies and publishing information that may "cause fear or alarm".

One year anniversary

The first anniversary of the coup on Tuesday was marked by a nationwide strike, protests and sporadic violence across the country. Several pro-military demonstrations, widely believed to have been organized by the authorities, were also held.

Widespread nonviolent demonstrations followed the army's seizure of power and ouster of Suu Kyi, whose National League for Democracy party was about to begin a second term in office after winning a landslide election victory. After the protests were put down with lethal force by the military, armed resistance arose.

About 1,500 civilians have been killed, but the government has been unable to suppress the opposition, which has spread across the country.

Noeleen Heyzer, the new UN special envoy for Myanmar, said Monday that violence and brutality have intensified since the military took power, sparking the resistance movement, and all sides have hardened their positions on using violence as a solution.

She said in a virtual news conference that Myanmar's situation is increasingly unstable and military operations, including artillery attacks and airstrikes, have raised concerns about the protection of civilians.

Since the end of December, Heyzer said, the number of internally displaced people rose from more than 320,000 to over 400,000. This is in addition to the 340,000 people already displaced before Feb 1, 2021, she said.

(With PTI inputs)

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(Newser)  The National Archives will release records from former Vice President Mike Pence to the House committee investigating the attack on the Capitol. White House counsel Dana Remus delivered the instruction in a letter Tuesday, the Hill reports. Former President Donald Trump had written Jan. 18 to oppose the release, saying it would violate executive privilege and another privilege that applies to deliberative processes. Remus wrote that many of the documents involved Pence's role as president of the Senate and the certification of the electors' vote in the 2020 election. "They are not subject to claims of the presidential communications privilege," Remus said.

Archivist David Ferriero wrote Trump telling him he'll send the documents to Congress on March 3, per CBS News, "as instructed by President Biden." He added, "unless prohibited by court order." Remus said some of the records could be exempt from release under the Presidential Records Act but not executive privilege. Pence files whose release wasn't challenged by Trump will be turned over right away, per CNN. Trump said this week that the House committee should investigate Pence for not refusing to certify the vote. (Read more Capitol attack stories.)
Washington: President Joe Biden is ordering 2,000 US-based troops to Poland and Germany and shifting 1,000 more from Germany to Romania, demonstrating to both allies and foes America's commitment to NATO's eastern flank amid fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Pentagon said Thursday.

Russia fired back with a sharply worded objection, calling the deployments unfounded and "destructive." Russian President Vladimir Putin also had a new telephone exchange with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. But readouts from both governments showed no progress, with Putin saying the West was giving no ground on Russia's security concerns and Johnson expressing deep concern about Russia's "hostile activity" on the Ukrainian border, referring to Putin's buildup of 100,000 troops there.

The Biden administration is aiming to demonstrate US resolve without undermining efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis. Biden notably has not sent military reinforcements to the three Baltic countries on NATO's eastern flank, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania that are former states of the Soviet Union.

No US troops are being sent to Ukraine, and White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Thursday said the administration has stopped calling a Russian invasion "imminent," because that word implies Washington knows Putin has made a decision to invade.

Officials say Putin's intentions remain unclear. However, increasing US troop levels in Eastern Europe is exactly what Putin has said he finds intolerable, along with the prospect of Ukraine joining NATO.

The US already has several thousand troops in Poland, and Romania is host to a NATO missile defence system that Russia considers a threat. The US presence in the region has increased since 2014 when Russia made its first invasion of Ukraine.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the soon-to-deploy US forces are intended to temporarily bolster the US and allied defensive positions. "These are not permanent moves," he said, stressing that the purpose is to reassure allies. Kirby said Russia had continued its buildup, even in the previous 24 hours, despite US urgings that it deescalated.

In Moscow, a senior official said the US movements will complicate the crisis. "The unfounded destructive steps will only fuel military tensions and narrow the field for political decisions," Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said in remarks carried by the Interfax news agency.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba again played down fears of a Russian attack in a call with reporters but said that if Russia makes moves that could signal an imminent invasion Ukraine would react as necessary.

Of the 2,000 US troops newly deploying from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, about 1,700 are members of the 82nd Airborne Division infantry brigade, who will go to Poland. The other 300 are with the 18th Airborne Corps and will go to Germany as what the Pentagon called a "joint task force-capable headquarters."

Poland's Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak wrote on Twitter that the deployment to his country is "a strong signal of solidarity in response to the situation in Ukraine." The 1,000 US troops going to Romania are members of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment based at Vilseck, Germany. They will augment about 900 already in Romania, Kirby said.

"The cavalry deployment's purpose is to ?deter aggression and enhance our defensive capabilities in frontline allied states during this period of elevated risk," the Pentagon said in a separate written statement. "It's important that we send a strong signal to Mr Putin and to the world? of the US commitment to NATO," Kirby said.

He said France has decided it, too, will send troop reinforcements to Romania under NATO command, and he noted that a number of other European NATO countries are considering adding forces on NATO's eastern flank. Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron touched base in a phone call Wednesday night.

NATO has been beefing up its defences around allies in Eastern Europe since late last year. Denmark, for example, said it was sending a frigate and F-16 warplanes to Lithuania, and Spain was sending four fighter jets to Bulgaria and three ships to the Black Sea to join NATO naval forces. The Netherlands plans to send two F-35 fighter aircraft to Bulgaria in April and is putting a ship and land-based units on standby for NATO's Response Force.

Biden has said he will not put American troops in Ukraine to fight any Russian incursion, although the United States is supplying Ukraine with weapons to defend itself and seeking to reassure allies in Eastern Europe that Washington will fulfil its treaty obligation to defend them in the event they are attacked.

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Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee has said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is her "main enemy" and announced that her party will contest Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, Tripura and other states in 2024 with an aim to oust the saffron party.

The West Bengal Chief Minister also cautioned her party workers not to indulge in infighting as it will weaken the party and strengthen their main enemy  BJP.

Speaking at the Netaji Indoor Stadium after the party`s organisational polls in which she was elected unopposed as the chairperson of the party, Banerjee said, "Remember, the party is one and hence all of you should work together to make it even stronger in West Bengal. If you do that, I will be able to concentrate outside Bengal. Remember, if we are really serious about ousting the BJP-ruled Union government in the next Lok Sabha elections, Trinamool will have to win from all the 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state.

"I request all of you to take care of the party organisation with all sincerity. If you can do that, I will be able to concentrate more on my work outside the state and spread the network of Trinamool Congress throughout the country," she appealed to the TMC workers.

Making it clear that the party is seriously trying to make inroads outside the state, the Chief Minister said, "We will not field any candidate in the forthcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections as an expression of solidarity towards Samajwadi Party and its chief Akhilesh Yadav. Trinamool will, however, contest from Uttar Pradesh in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections."

She also asked the disgruntled and rebel BJP leaders in West Bengal to join the Trinamool.

"I am being told that around eight BJP legislators in West Bengal are willing to join the Trinamool. If they want to join us to be part of our development activities, they are most welcome. But we will not force anyone to join us," Banerjee said.

Taking a dig at Congress, the Chief Minister said, "In Meghalaya, they vote in favour of the BJP and they do the same in Chandigarh. I wanted all anti-BJP forces to get united. But if someone refuses to come forward, we will have to continue with our struggle alone."

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A man was given crystal meth at a party, Portlaoise district court heard last week.

Ojars Sinicins, 32, of 14 Sean Doire, Durrow was charged with having a false instrument, a Latvian driving licence, at Iceland, Portlaoise on August 9, 2020 and possession of crystal meth at Fairgreen, Portlaoise on the same date. He pleaded guilty.

Sgt JJ Kirby told the court that Mr Sinicins had been found with 60 worth of crystal meth on him and a suspected fake driving licence on that date. When the licence was checked it was found to be fake.

Appearing for Mr Sinicins, solicitor Brian Duffy he was a Latvian man who had spent ten years in Ireland. He had been at a party and these drugs had been given to him. They were in his wallet and he had not used them. He was not a habitual drug user.

He had obtained the driving licence for a job in Dublin which subsequently had not materialised.

Judge Catherine Staines fined him 100 for the driving licence matter and applied Section 1(2) on the other matter.
The Alaska Supreme Court ruled on Friday against 16 young Alaskans who wanted to sue the state over its climate policies.

The higher court upheld the 2018 ruling of a lower court, which decided to dismiss the case, AP News reported.

I am very disappointed with what the court decided today, lead plaintiff Summer Sagoonick, who is 20, said in a press release from Our Childrens Trust. With climate change worsening with every season of Alaskas continuing promotion of fossil fuels, it is hard to tell how long our sustainable life may last.

Sagoonick is a Inupiaq from Unalakleet, and one of several Alaska Native young people represented in the suit, according to Anchorage Daily News. The plaintiffs argued that the state government was violating their constitutional rights by propping up fossil fuels and therefore worsening the climate crisis. If the court ruled in their favor, it would make pro-fossil-fuel policies unconstitutional under Alaska state law.

However, the lower and higher courts both ruled that the issues raised by the plaintiffs should be addressed by the legislative or executive branches of state government, AP News explained.

The young Alaskans appeal, raising compelling concerns about climate change, resource development, and Alaskas future. But we conclude that the superior court correctly dismissed their lawsuit, the Alaska Supreme Court ruled in its decision.

The decision was narrow, however; the young people lost their case with a 3-2 split. One active judge and two retired judges ruled against the plaintiffs, while the other two active judges ruled in their favor, Our Childrens Trust said.

[The law] requires that we explicitly recognize a constitutional right to a livable climate  arguably the bare minimum when it comes to the inherent human rights to which the Alaska Constitution is dedicated, dissenting justices Peter J. Maassen and Susan M. Carney wrote, according to Our Childrens Trust.

Our Childrens Trust is a non-profit that works to help young people mount legal cases to secure their right to a safe climate. They are also behind a similar case against the federal government, Juliana v. United States. While Fridays ruling was a loss, the fact that a majority of active judges supported the youth was promising, Our Childrens Trust chief legal counsel and Juliana v. U.S. lead counsel Julia Olson said.

This decision today is a 2-1 win for the youth from the active justices on this Court. And one day soon, it will be the majority opinion. More and more judges around the country and the world are finally embracing their constitutional role to be a check on the political branches of government that are destroying the planet and lives of children, Olson said in the press release.

The Alaska youths lead counsel, Andrew Welle, said the young people were not done fighting.

These youth are resolute in their quest for climate justice. With the state continuing to undermine their health, safety, and futures, we will evaluate our next steps and will continue to fight for climate justice, Welle said in the press release.
A federal judge in Colorado ruled how "any judge" would have in a case, even though he had an undisclosed financial stake in one of the corpor
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

Even as virus cases remain high, acting Health Secretary Dr. David Scrase struck an optimistic tone during a news briefing Wednesday.

He said data suggests New Mexico has weathered the peak of the omicron surge and that COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are expected to continue to drop in the coming days and weeks.

He went so far as to say he was hopeful the state was primed for a spring break of sorts from the coronavirus.

Im very encouraged, Scrase said. I dont think youve ever heard me talking about getting a spring break at these press conferences after two years.

New Mexico reported 2,611 new confirmed COVID cases Wednesday. Thats up from the 1,809 cases reported Tuesday, but its a far cry from daily case counts above 5,000 and 6,000, which the state has reported in recent weeks.

How low daily case counts and hospitalizations will fall remains unknown, Scrase said during the briefing. And he cautioned that good news doesnt mean its time to stop wearing masks or taking other precautions.

We are officially on the downslope of the omicron case curve, he said.

The most recent variant of the coronavirus, which is much more contagious than previous versions, has proven to be less deadly, Scrase said.

The overall fatality rate of COVID in the state has dropped to its lowest level since the start of the pandemic. He said that the number of COVID patients in the hospital on ventilators has also not increased even as cases did during the current wave.

Scrase said genetic sequencing data shows New Mexicos previous surges of different coronavirus variants have been spaced about six months apart. The first came in late 2020, the second in July and August 2021, and then the ongoing omicron wave.

And so Im really happy about that, Scrase said. I think this gives us a perfect time to continue our conversations and discussions about learning to live with COVID. And transitioning to a new model of fighting the pandemic that occurs a lot more in our homes and in our families than it does in the halls of DOH and the Capitol and HSD (Human Services Department).

But many people and families continue to suffer through the omicron wave.

New Mexico reported 15 more deaths Wednesday, bringing the statewide toll to 6,488. There were 651 people hospitalized with COVID throughout the state.

Unvaccinated individuals accounted for 92.8% of the 222 deaths and 77.4% of the hospilizations in the last four weeks, according to Health Department epidemiology reports.

Scrase said part of learning to live with COVID, in addition to taking precautions such as getting vaccinated and boosted, and wearing masks, is to shore up a supply of at-home COVID tests for when they are needed, instead of having to make an appointment and wait days for the results.

He encouraged households to order tests directly from the federal government at www.covidtests.gov or to seek them out from the state. The Health Department has distributed 1.4 million tests in recent weeks and has ordered a total of 3 million, he said.

But the idea is not to wait until youre exposed or not to wait until you need that kind of test, Scrase said. The idea is to have those in your home. So you can just do them.
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U.S. lawmakers are nearing a deal on sanctions aimed at deterring Russian President Vladimir Putin from invading Ukraine. Several lawmakers who recently returned from a trip to Kyiv told VOA's Congressional Correspondent Katherine Gypson there is broad bipartisan unity on confronting Russia. Camera: Russian Service Produced by: Katherine Gypson
Add one more name to the already-crowded field seeking the Republican nomination in Virginias 7th Congressional District.

Spotsylvania County Supervisor David Ross announced this week that he is going to run for the nomination. He waited to announce his intentions until the new district boundaries were set.

Ross, a 56-year-old Iowa native who has lived in the county since 2007, considered running in 2020, when Rep. Abigail Spanberger, DHenrico, beat GOP challenger Nick Freitas.

The retired U.S. Marine aviator, who has served as the Courtland District supervisor since 2012, said he relied on his Christian faith in 2020, praying over the decision. He did the same thing this year.

This time, I feel ready to do it, said Ross, a program manager in the software development information technology sector and married father of four boys and two girls.

Ross and the other potential GOP candidates hope to unseat Spanberger, a Henrico County resident who said she will seek a third term even though she no longer lives in the redrawn district.

So far, only two of the Republicans who have announced intentions to runstate Sen. Bryce Reeves, RSpotsylvania, and Spotsylvania resident Derrick Andersonhave filed campaign reports for the fundraising period that ended Dec. 31, according to the Virginia Public Access Project.

Reeves, who raised more than $250,000 and ended the year with about $225,000 in his coffers, represents the 17th District in the Virginia Senate, which includes Fredericksburg and parts of Spotsylvania, Orange, Louisa, Culpeper and Albemarle counties. Anderson reported raising more than $289,000 for the campaign and has about $212,000 available.

Del. John McGuire, RGoochland, is the only other Republican to file, raising a reported $176,414. He hasnt said whether he will run in the new district, which does not include Goochland.

Because they filed in the old 7th Congressional District, Reeves and Anderson got a jump on the competition. Other Republicans declared their candidacies after the filing period because of the late change to the district boundaries.

The crowded field includes Gary Adkins, a retired U.S. Air Force officer who lives in Stafford; Prince William County Supervisor Yesli Vega; and Gina Ciarcia, a homeschool educator in Prince William who was the GOPs unsuccessful nominee for the 2nd District House of Delegates seat last year.

Ross describes himself as a social and fiscal conservative, adding that he has a 10-year track record on the Board of Supervisors.

Ross addressed abortion as one of his top priorities. He believes life starts at conception and added that he would like to see Roe V. Wade reversed. He said he has taken a no more taxes pledge and will not raise taxes on residents he believes already pay too much.

Ross criticized withdrawing U.S. troops from Afghanistan withdrawal. He said he supports vaccinations, but said it should be a choice.

If he were to win the seat in Congress, Ross said he would leave his job and the Board of Supervisors because being a congressman is a full-time job, something he feels is more of a duty.
South Carolina saw an increase in its rate of babies born prematurely, resulting in a failing grade on the 2021 March of Dimes Premature Birth Report Card.

South Carolinas premature birth rate rose from 11.5 to 11.8 in 2020.

The report card not only revealed the rate of babies born too soon  before their lungs, brains and other organs are fully developed  but also revealed the stark health disparities seen across all measures of maternal and infant health.

The state consequently earned an F on the March of Dimes latest Premature Birth Report Card.

The report revealed that the percentage of babies in 2016-2019 (average) born premature in Orangeburg County stood at 13 percent.

The preterm birth rates over the same time period in Calhoun and Bamberg counties stood at 13.3 percent and 12.8 percent, respectively.

The March of Dimes Prematurity Report Card continues to highlight why we as a state must be diligent in our efforts to improve maternal and infant health care and continue to make investments in programs and policies that give every baby in our state a fighting chance at life, said Kimberly Seals, director of the Bureau of Maternal and Child Health at the state Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Premature birth/low birthweight is the second leading cause of all infant deaths during the first year of life, and the leading cause of infant death among Black infants. In South Carolina, the rate is 55 percent higher than the rate among all other women.

Orangeburg-based Family Solutions has been championing the issue, along with infant mortality, in Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Hampton and Orangeburg counties.

As far as the preterm births, unfortunately that number is not something were too excited about at Family Solutions either, said Family Solutions Director Lamikka Purvis Samuel, LMSW, CCHW.

While Family Solutions had zero infant deaths in 2021, its preterm birth rate within its service region stood at 10.07 percent.

One of the challenges that weve noticed and are trying to put our heads around with preterm births is that sometimes it is a result of elective C-sections, the scheduling of those Caesarian-sections prior to a woman becoming full-term in her gestational period, Samuel said.

She continued, Its a real difficult discussion to have. We know that the health of the pregnancy and the health of the baby is the majority of the time determined by the health of the mom. So if we have women that are going into pregnancies unhealthy, then the likelihood of the having a baby before the baby reaches full term is much greater.

Seals said, Its our ongoing goal to improve both maternal and infant health outcomes across South Carolina. The causes of prematurity are multifaceted and are often unknown because every pregnancy is different.

She continued, Efforts to improve birth outcomes include partnering with organizations like the Birth Outcomes Initiative to spread awareness about decreasing early elective deliveries and how critically important well-women care and early prenatal care are to successful births and healthy babies.

Seals said managing chronic diseases and eliminating risk factors such as smoking, substance use and obesity is also incredibly important.

The Premature Birth Report Card included this year a Social Vulnerability Index that showed counties with populations which had greater risks of poor health outcomes. The SVI measure is a number between 0 and 1, with a higher SVI indicating a greater vulnerability.

Orangeburg and Bamberg counties had an SVI measure of 0.6-1, with Calhoun County having an SVI measure of 0.3-0.59.

Samuel said, When we look at access to health foods and things of that nature, some of this is limited. ... There are a number of underlying conditions that our women have that are not being addressed simply because were not going for those routine exams. Were not looking at what were eating, what were putting in our bodies during that preconception period.

The Premature Birth Report Card indicated that 15.9 percent of women in the state received inadequate prenatal care during their pregnancy.

According to the most recent 2020 data, the state DHEC reports that the states infant mortality rate stood at 6.5 per 1,000 live births, compared to 6.9 in 2019.

Orangeburg County had a rate of 9.4 per 1,000 live births, Calhoun County had zero and no rate was given for Bamberg County because of insufficient numbers.

Dr. Brannon Traxler, DHECs public health director, said in a press release that while the states 2020 Infant Morality and Selected Birth Characteristics report revealed a slight decline in the states infant mortality rate, challenges remain.

The decrease in the number of infant deaths for 2020 is encouraging, but the report also spotlights areas where significantly more work needs to be done to improve birth outcomes for women of color, Traxler said. The disparity in infant deaths between white women and women of color is unfortunately widening and must be addressed.

Samuel said, Theres so many factors that come into play when we start looking at racial disparities.  We need to look at those areas that weve not paid close attention to. A lot of people do not talk about generational trauma.  These are things that scientists are finding that are affecting the African-American population.

She continued, If its affecting the African-American population, then these are things that we as Black women are having to deal with even when we become pregnant. At Family Solutions, we educate and talk about the importance of being physically healthy, but then we also take a look at that womans life.

Samuel said the state is making an effort to, work more closely now with community organizations and with evidence-based home visiting programs.

Thats great, but what I would love for the community-based organizations and evidence-based home visiting programs to do is incorporate the racial component into the education that they are providing, she said. Incorporate the awareness of disparity based on race into their conversations and presentations.

The Premature Birth Report Card addressed several measures aimed at improving birth outcomes and reducing the rates of maternal death and illness, including passing legislation that would increase womens access to doula care.

Doulas are non-clinical professionals who emotionally and physically support women during the perinatal period, including birth and postpartum. Direct entry midwives and certified nurse midwives are allowed to practice in the state; however, doulas are not covered by Medicaid.

Samuel said community-based doula services are needed in the Family Solutions service area.

They could play such a big part in the health as well as the outcome of a pregnancy. They could work alongside those community health workers and social workers who go into the home, she said.

We dont have anything etched in stone as of yet, but one of the things that we are looking into is possibly expanding services to be able to offer a limited number of doula services to families. It would be a service that these women would not have to pay for, Samuel said.

Shes also concerned about the declining number of obstetrical providers in her program service region.

But there are new providers that are up and coming. So Im optimistic that there will be some providers who will be able to come into the areas and remain there and will continue to work with us as a community-based program, she said.

The March of Dimes 2020 Premature Report Card can be viewed online at www.marchofdimes.org/mission/reportcard.aspx. The state chapter of the March of Dimes can also be reached by phone at 888-663-4637.
Order by Mar-a-Lago special master is the first time Donald Trumps attorneys have been told to confirm or deny his claims that agents planted evidence or that documents were declassified.
We believe the accident happened probably a minute or so later, NTSB Air Safety Investigator Lynn Spencer told reporters during a news conference at the fairgrounds Wednesday afternoon.

A pilot, who has not been publicly identified, died in the crash that occurred about a half-mile west of the fairgrounds in a heavily wooded area off Cardwell Lane.

The operator of the 1977 Cessna 310R airplane was Sol Aerial Surveys, Spencer said.

On behalf of the NTSB, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the friends and family and colleagues of the [victim] of this tragic accident, said Spencer, with the NTSBs Eastern Regional Office in Ashburn.

The NTSB is in the preliminary part of its investigation and will be at the crash site for about two to four days, Spencer said.

The Virginia State Police, Ringgold Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Pittsylvania County Public Safety and the Pittsylvania County Sheriffs Office are assisting with the investigation, she said.

Ringgold Volunteer Fire & Rescue Chief Mike Neal gave an account of the minutes after receiving a call of a small aircraft down at 2:01 p.m. Tuesday.

The area where the plane crashed was thick woods and crews tried to access the crash site by dirt roads that narrowed down to pathways, Neal said. There was also a creek.

We had three four-wheel-drive pickups at the entrances to three different dirt roads, Neal said.

Ringgold Fire & Rescue personnel took its Gator, a four-wheel drive ATV, to get to the site he said.

It was probably three- or four-tenths of a mile into the woods [off Cardwell Lane], Neal said. A small road became a path and went into total thickets.

Crews arrived at the area about 10 minutes after receiving the call, but it took nearly a half-hour after being dispatched to find the wreckage, Neal said.

The victim was found near the plane, he said.

An ambulance from Ringgold Fire and Rescue also responded, and the Virginia State Police, Pittsylvania County Sheriffs Office, Pittsylvania County Public Safety, the NTSB and the FAA were also on the scene, Neal said.

As far as I know, there were no eyewitnesses to the crash, he said.

At around 10:03 a.m., the plane departed Danville Regional Airport and climbed to about 2,300 feet before beginning a descent in the southeastern direction, Spencer said.

The last radar track shows the aircraft at about 1,100 at about 10:06 a.m. before the plane crashed about a minute later, she said.

The debris field left by the crash is about 125 yards long, she said.

For the next few days, we are going to be here on scene collecting evidence and trying to talk to witnesses, Spencer said.

A preliminary report with additional information will come out in about two weeks, she said. A factual report, followed by a probable cause determination, will be issued in about 12 to 18 months.

This is a very highly fragmented debris field, she said. Its a lot of small pieces that will take a little bit longer to really document.

Anyone who saw or heard anything can call the NTSB hotline at 866-328-6347 or send an email to witness@ntsb.gov.

As part of the investigation, the plane will be sent to Dover, Delaware, where we will continue our examination of the aircraft, Spencer said.

Were going to make sure we have all pieces of the aircraft, she said. We are going to look at failure modes, fracture surfaces. Were going to be looking at the environment, the weather, the terrain.

Whether the crash was caused by mechanical failure or human error is unknown, she said. The pilot was a commercial pilot, she said.

Were going to be looking at the pilot, she said. Were going to be looking at his training, his qualifications, his ... experience, his fitness for duty, his health.

Robert Katz, a commercial pilot and flight instructor in Dallas, said the Cessna 310R is a very reliable airplane if properly operated and maintained.

As for what he believed caused the crash, My guess is it was an engine failure upon takeoff, Katz said.

However, the older a plane gets, the more expensive it is to maintain, he said.
Through the months of February and March, the University of Mary Washington Galleries is showing selections from the The Petrucci Family Foundations Collection of African American Art. The renowned work is not usually seen outside of New York or major galleries, said Ashe Laughlin.

The visiting assistant professor of painting and drawing, who curated the show, also said the exhibittitled Healing Through the Preservation of Our Histories and Our Selveshighlights our need for healing through outlets that were not available to us during the height of the pandemic, especially in light of the collective trauma to the world of the past two years.

The exhibit is on show now and runs through March 24 and is free and open to the public.

The objective is healing through art, Laughlin said. The African American community has been scarred so frequently, for so long, and again in the last number of years. This exhibit creates a space that encourages reflection, healing and regrouping through the lens of Black American history and its preservation.

But bringing this exhibit to campus was also a way to get students involved with curation.

Recently, he took about 20 students to the National Gallery in Washington, D.C. Walking through the 13th to 15th century rooms, one of his African American students remarked that no one looked like her in the paintingsa span of the best of hundreds of years of art.

Its a powerful thing to see yourself represented in art, Laughlin said. We take for granted that African Americans are not represented often or enough.

He knew about the collection, whose mission is to bring focus to African American visual arts and their essential place in the history and discourses surrounding American art, and began an application to use its pieces a year ago, with input from students and faculty. In particular, he brought together a group of African American studio art students to look through the collection and select the work that resonated with them.

The group exhibit of modern and contemporary works from The Petrucci Family Foundations Collection stretches across two galleries, and features artists such as Faith Ringgold, Jacob Lawrence, Theaster Gates, Kara Walker, Sonya Clark and more.

Included is a large canvas by painter Ronald Jackson called She Sang a Song No One Would Hear. Completed in 2019, it features a woman against a patterned background with her eyes, nose and mouth peeking out from a mask of a contrasting pattern. Laughlin called it so poignant.

Jackson is local to Fredericksburg, having moved here during his military career. His work tells the story of people from the pastnot specific figures, but nameless imaginings who would have migrated out of the Deep South in the early 20th century.

His upbringing in Arkansas contributed to this interest, as did watching quilters growing up. The patterns in his work both explain and obscure narratives, prompting the viewer to fill in the story for themselves.

I invite viewers to collaborate with the work by contributing their imagination to add narrative, Jackson said. For them to grant this person they dont know humanity and give them a story.

The title of the painting plays into that, giving the viewer a place to start.

While local, he hasnt shown in the Fredericksburg region in a decade, and this is a rare opportunity to see his work in a gallery here. This June, hell have a show in Baltimore at Galerie Myrtis.

Faith Ringgolds As Free and Independent States juxtaposes the creative differences between American giants Thomas Jefferson and Martin Luther King Jr. The former wrote from his Monticello, while the latter wrote from a jail cell.

The exhibit features work in different mediums. Natalie Erin Browns Value Pyramid comprises wood burnings that show the comparative value society places on different skin tones.

I hope its a cathartic experience, Laughlin said about the exhibit. We are very lucky to host this work, of prominent African American artists who show internationally.

He said in the future, UMWs galleries are hoping to generate new avenues for inclusion. This focus has been evident, he said, in recent exhibits that are more representative of the makeup of the student body and faculty, showing diverse points of view.

That includes Healing Through the Preservation of Our Histories and Our Selves, which is an opportunity to acknowledge tensions and consider the need to preserve African American histories.
President Biden wants to name a Supreme Court pick by end of the month

The Senate's majority Democrats will have to function for more than a month without Sen. Ben Ray Lujan as the New Mexico senator recovers from a stroke he suffered last week, according to a timeline put out by his office.

He plans to return to the Senate in four to six weeks, a senior aide in the 49-year-old senator's office said Wednesday  which would be two weeks after President Joe Biden self-imposed deadline for announcing a nominee to fill the seat of retiring Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer.

Lujan checked himself into a hospital in Santa Fe last Thursday after he began to experience dizziness and fatigue, according to his chief of staff, who said Lujan is expected to make a full recovery. He was transferred to a hospital in Albuquerque, where he remains.

Progressives are pushing Biden and party leaders to act fast, noting that the Senate pushed through President Donald Trump's nomination of Justice Amy Coney Barrett in just 35 days in the rush to confirm her before the 2020 elections.

Sen. Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) will be out for four to six weeks, according to a senior aide

The four to six month timeframe is barring any complications, the aide told the Associated Press.

Even after Biden's nomination, the Senate Judiciary Committee needs time to vet the nominee and review mountains of paperwork, depending on if Biden chooses someone with a long judicial record or other paper trail.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki commented on Lujan's absence, following a reminder by Delaware Sen. Chris Coons that 'it's just a reminder that in a 50-50 Senate, any unexpected development could be a challenge to our moving forward on an agenda that the Democratic caucus shares.'

Said Psaki: 'Well, life is precious, as we know. You are most familiar with the average age of senators in the Senate, but that is true on both sides of the aisle,' she added, speaking of a chamber where the oldest Republican and Democratic senators are each 88 years old.

The news of Lujan's illness had an immediate impact on the 50-50 Senate, where President Joe Biden will soon send a Supreme Court nominee

'Well, life is precious, as we know,' said White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki

'I would just say, we spend most of our time engaging in good faith about the president's agenda and not making those calculations,' she said, steering clear of the topic of Biden's agenda being potentially stalled for a period of time.

'Of course, we're thinking about him, his family, his entire team, at this point in time,' said Psaki.

While Lujan is out, Democrats will only be able to pass legislation or nominees if it is non-controversial or can garner GOP support.

The Republican filibuster has already prevented the majority from passing initiatives that can get majority support. Biden's Build Back Better plan remains short of such a majority anyway.

Justice Stephen Breyer announced his retirement

Even Senate Democratic leaders were caught off guard by the news of Lujan's condition, which broke Tuesday.

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer met with Biden at the White House to discuss the looming Supreme Court fight.

He described the 'awful, frightening' situation of one of the Senate's younger members falling suddenly ill. He predicted Lujan, a former House member, would be 'back to his old self.'

'All of us are rooting for him every step of the way - between now and the day he makes his return to the Senate,' Schumer said.

Lujan sits on two key committees, the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions panel and the Commerce Committee  which already began putting off scheduled nominations.

According to a statement Lujan office released Tuesday: 'Senator Lujan was found to have suffered a stroke in the cerebellum, affecting his balance. As part of his treatment plan, he subsequently underwent decompressive surgery to ease swelling.'

Even before the news about Lujan, Democrats had struggled to push through Biden's ambitious agenda with just 50 votes. Two centrists, Joe Manchin and Krysten Sinema, were able to stall his $1.8 trillion Build Back Better plan, which has seen no movement since before Christmas.
Feb. 2LAKE ANDES  A Lake Andes man is facing serious time behind bars after he allegedly kidnapped and beat a woman, hospitalizing her.

Waylon Greger, 41, of Sioux Falls, was charged with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, grand theft of over $5,000, possession of a controlled substance and more.

On Jan. 28, authorities in Charles Mix County received a report from a woman who said she was being followed by a male approximately 9 miles southeast of Lake Andes. The woman later told authorities she was hiding in a ditch, as she said Greger was trying to kill her.

Upon arrival, police located the woman standing in the ditch, in distress, with injuries to her legs.

The victim told police she had been traveling with Greger when he became worried that people were after him. She alleged Greger had tried to get her to take meth with him, but she refused. Eventually, she attempted to leave the vehicle, but Greger allegedly would not allow her to leave and began punching her.

She jumped from the vehicle at a speed of approximately 15 mph, and her right leg was run over by the car. She alleged that Greger turned around and attempted to hit her again with the vehicle, but she made it into the ditch. Greger fled the scene in the victim's vehicle, authorities say.

The victim was transported to the Wagner Community Hospital for treatment of her injuries.

As police began searching for Greger, 911 calls came in alleging that Greger was ramming vehicles in Delmont. A later 911 call reported Greger had intentionally backed into another driver's car in Wagner, causing damage of over $1,000.

A deputy with the Charles Mix County Sheriff's Office and a Wagner police officer were able to locate Greger in the driveway of a resident's home in Wagner. They approached him with their weapons drawn and ordered him to exit the vehicle.

Greger allegedly refused to exit the vehicle and resisted officers who drug him out. He was eventually placed in cuffs and placed into a Charles Mix County sheriff's deputy's vehicle.

Story continues

Inside the victim's vehicle, which Greger was driving, officers located several empty cans of Joose and a white powder substance on the center console, which tested positive for methamphetamine.

Dispatch informed officers that Greger had a revoked license and was wanted for a parole violation. At the jail, a preliminary breath test administered to Greger returned a .131% result.

Greger's extensive criminal records includes convictions for aggravated assault, first-degree burglary and DUI. Two counts of first-degree attempted murder lodged against Greger were dismissed by prosecutors in favor of an aggravated assault conviction in 1999.

Greger will next appear in a Charles Mix County courtroom on Feb. 15 for a preliminary hearing. If convicted on all charges, he could be sentenced to serve up to 85 years in prison, pay a fine of $170,000 or both.
China's losses in the Galwan Valley clash in 2020 were much higher than reported with many soldiers drowning while crossing a fast-flowing river in darkness, an investigative Australian newspaper claimed on Wednesday.

The Klaxon cited findings by unnamed researchers and mainland Chinese bloggers in the report and said they have declined to be named on security grounds, but their findings appear to "shed significant light on the saga".

"Claims of substantial Chinese casualties are not new, however evidence provided by a group of social media researchers, which The Klaxon has independently built on, appears to support claims that China's casualties extended well beyond the four soldiers named by Beijing," it said.

The report said it also showed the extreme lengths Beijing has gone to silence discussion about the battle.

Read | China's PLA to give out stones taken from Galwan Valley

"China's losses in the high-altitude 2020 Galwan Valley border clash with India -- the deadliest confrontation between the two giants in over four decades -- were much higher than reported with many soldiers drowning while crossing a fast-flowing, sub-zero river in darkness, new research claims," the report said.

The eastern Ladakh border row escalated after the Galwan Valley clashes on June 15, 2020.

Twenty Indian Army personnel laid down their lives in the clashes that marked the most serious military conflicts between the two sides in decades.

In February last year, China officially acknowledged that five Chinese military officers and soldiers were killed in the clashes with the Indian Army though it is widely believed that the death toll was higher.

The Klaxon cited a report into the matter titled "Galwan Decoded" that it said has been prepared by a group of social media researchers.

"The researchers have declined to be named on security grounds, but their findings appear to shed significant light on the saga," it said.

The Klaxon said the report cited a year-long investigation involving discussions with mainland Chinese bloggers, information obtained from mainland-based Chinese citizens and media reports that have since been deleted by Chinese authorities.

"A lot of facts about what really happened, what led to the skirmish, have been hidden by Beijing," it quoted from the report.

The border standoff in eastern Ladakh erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry.

As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in Gogra as well as in the north and south banks of the Pangong lake last year.

Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control in the sensitive sector.

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President Joe Biden leaves the Oval Office and walks to Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House on Jan. 28, 2022. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Biden Plans to Reduce Cancer Deaths by Half in 25 years

President Joe Biden on Tuesday announced his commitment to reduce the nations cancer death rate by half in the next 25 years as part of an effort to reignite former President Barack Obamas Cancer Moonshot initiative.

In the years following the passage of the National Cancer Act in 1971, the nations cancer death rate remained largely flat. But in the past 20 years, it has decreased by about 25 percentin large part due to the development of new treatments, therapies, and early detection.

Cancer Moonshot was started in 2016 with the goal of accelerating the advancement of cancer research over the next five years by streamlining FDA approval of cancer treatments.

Biden announced his new ambitious goal in front of an audience in the East Room of the White House on Feb. 2, saying the fight against cancer is a White House presidential priority.

I promise you, we can do this. All those we lost, all those we miss; we can end cancer as we know it, said Biden, who lost his elder son, Beau, to brain cancer in 2015.

Bidens plan includes calls for establishing a White House Cancer Moonshot coordinator, forming a cancer cabinet composed of representatives from multiple government agencies, and hosting a Cancer Moonshot summit at the White House.

It also calls to jumpstart progress on making up for cancer screenings that were missed as a result of government-imposed lockdowns during the onset of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus outbreak.

Ahead of the announcement, a senior administration official pointed to government efforts to accelerate the development of vaccines for COVID-19 as a possible starting point for future breakthroughs in cancer treatments.

We can also take lessons from the mRNA vaccines that were developed against the virus that causes COVID-19 by asking, Can we make mRNA vaccines that teach your immune system to recognize the distinctive mutations that occur in cancer cells? the official said.

Theres a lot of thinking right now that things like that could cause your body to be able to recognize and attack those early cancer cells before theres even any tumor to see and could decrease the overall incidence.

Dr. Barron Lerner, a professor of medicine and population health at New York University Langone Health, said that hyperbolic goals can be useful to attract public attention to the cause but achieving the 50 percent reduction is extremely unlikely.

The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 1,918,030 new cancer cases and 609,360 cancer deaths this year.

In the time since the start of CCP virus outbreak, COVID-19 has claimed more that 800,000 lives in the United States, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cancer has claimed 1.2 million American lives in that same time, Biden said on Tuesday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The United States could be willing to enter into an agreement with Russia to ease tensions over missile deployments in Europe if Moscow steps back from the brink in Ukraine, according to a leaked document published in a Spanish newspaper on Wednesday.

The daily El Pais published two documents purported to be written replies from the United States and NATO last week to Russia's proposals for a new security arrangement in Europe.

US officials could not be immediately contacted to confirm that one document is authentic.

Also Read: In clash with US over Ukraine, Putin has a lifeline from China

In reference to the second document, NATO said that it never comments on alleged leaks.

But the text closely reflects statements made to the media last by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg as he laid out the 30-nation military organisation's position on Russia's demands.

The US document, marked as a confidential non-paper, said that the United States would be willing to discuss in consultation with its NATO partners a transparency mechanism to confirm the absences of Tomahawk cruise missiles at Aegis Ashore sites in Romania and Poland.

That would happen on condition that Russia offers reciprocal transparency measures on two ground-launched missiles bases of our choosing in Russia.

Aegis is a system for defending against short or intermediate-range missiles. But Russia has claimed in the past that the US could attack with Tomahawk intermediate-range missiles from Aegis Ashore sites.

The US document said Washington would have to consult with NATO allies on the potential offer, particularly with Romania and Poland.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refused to comment on the leaked documents, saying only that we didn't release anything.

In comments to the state RIA Novosti news agency, Russia's Foreign Ministry also refused to confirm or deny that the documents published by El Pais were authentic.

Fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine have mounted in recent months, after President Vladimir Putin deployed more than 100,000 troops to areas near Ukraine's borders, including in neighbouring Belarus, backed by tanks, artillery, helicopters and warplanes. Putin says he does not intend to order an invasion.

The US underlined after its written proposals in the leaked document that progress can only be achieved on these issues in an environment of de-escalation with respect to Russia's threatening actions towards Ukraine.

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Liz Truss will tell the EU today that the government is not colluding with the DUP over the order to halt border checks in the Irish Sea.

The foreign secretary will inform Maros Sefcovic, her counterpart in the European Commission, that the decision was taken by Northern Ireland alone.

But she will say Britain will not overrule the controversial decision to stop the Brexit checks on agriculture and food products arriving from Britain.

DUP agriculture minister Edwin Poots had announced officials would stop carrying out the inspections required under the Northern Ireland Protocol at midnight.

Ms Truss hopes to convince the EU that the dispute proves the current Protocol is not fit for purpose and must be amended, The Telegraph reports.

Northern Ireland secretary Brandon Lewis also indicated the government will not intervene.

Liz Truss will tell the EU today that Britain is not colluding with the DUP over the order to halt border checks in the Irish Sea

DUP minister Edwin Poots (pictured), whose officials are responsible for carrying out Northern Ireland Protocol checks as part of Britain's Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, said he had ordered his permanent secretary to stop them at midnight on Wednesday night

DUP minister Edwin Poots (pictured), whose officials are responsible for carrying out Northern Ireland Protocol checks as part of Britain's Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, said he had ordered his permanent secretary to stop them at midnight on Wednesday night

He told ITV's Peston: 'Obviously this is a matter for the Northern Ireland Executive, it is something that is within their legal remit.

'It's exactly the sort of thing we have been warning about, in terms of the stability of the executive and the decisions the executive ministers will take in order to ensure that products can move from Great Britain to Northern Ireland in a way that they always have done.'

Opposition parties in Northern Ireland reacted with fury to the decision by Poots, insisting the civil service has a duty to comply with Stormont's legal obligations to carry out checks under the Withdrawal Agreement with the EU.

Irish foreign affairs minister Simon Coveney said it represents a 'breach of international law'.

It was unclear last night whether the senior civil servant in Mr Poots's department, Anthony Harbinson, would comply with the order.

The checks must be carried out as part of the Northern Ireland Protocol, which avoids the need for a hard border between Ireland and the UK nation (Pictured: Paperwork being checked by staff at the NI Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on Monday)

The agriculture minister said legal advice he had sought on the issue supported his view that he was entitled to stop the checks.

The move came after he failed last week to secure the wider approval of the Stormont Executive to continue checks on agri-food produce arriving in Northern Ireland from Great Britain. Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said last week the UK would not step in if Mr Poots moved to halt the checks.

Under the terms of the Northern Ireland Protocol, the province is meant to retain full access to both the UK market and the European Single Market.

As part of the deal, Brussels insisted on checks on goods entering Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK to ensure the route did not become a back door into the single market.

But the onerous checks imposed by the EU have been blamed for causing serious disruption to trade within the UK, as well as sparking political tensions in Northern Ireland.

Boris Johnson accused the European Union of implementing post-Brexit border rules in Northern Ireland in an 'insane' way in Parliament last week

The protocol was negotiated as part of the Brexit deal to avoid a hard border with Ireland, by effectively keeping Northern Ireland in the EU's single market for goods. But unionists have been pressuring for it to be scrapped

What is the Northern Ireland Protocol? During Brexit negotiations the EU and UK agreed a Northern Ireland Protocol that there would be no new checks on goods crossing the border between NI and the Republic of Ireland (ROI). The protocol aims to: Avoid a hard border between NI and the ROI

Make sure of the integrity of the EU's single market for goods

Facilitate unfettered access for NI goods to the GB market, and the inclusion of NI goods in free trade agreements between the UK and third countries As a result of the protocol, NI has in effect remained in the EU's single market for goods (England, Scotland and Wales have left the EU's single market for goods). This allows goods to flow to and from NI to the ROI and the rest of the EU as they did while the UK was a member of the EU, without customs checks, tariffs or new paperwork. The EU's rules on customs and regulation of agri-food products will continue to apply to goods arriving in NI. Source: nidirect.gov.uk Advertisement

The DUP had set a February 21 deadline for the lifting of EU checks on goods arriving from Great Britain.

Mr Poots said the legal advice stated 'there is presently no executive approval for SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) checks'.

He added: 'The implementation of SPS checks requires executive approval. A decision to initiate or continue such checks could not be validly taken in the absence of Executive approval. The advice concluded that I can direct the checks to cease in the absence of executive approval. I have now issued a formal instruction to my permanent secretary to halt all checks that were not in place on December 31, 2020, from midnight.

'I will prepare a paper for executive consideration in the near future to seek agreement on a way forward.'

Mr Coveney suggested the DUP was 'playing politics with legal obligations'.

He told the Irish parliament: 'If a political decision is taken by a minister in Northern Ireland to stop all checks in ports on goods coming across the Irish Sea, coming into Northern Ireland, that is effectively a breach of international law.'

Sinn Fein deputy first minister Michelle O'Neill said: 'This stunt is an attempt by the DUP to unlawfully interfere with domestic and international law.'

Whitehall sources said the move was 'nuclear' and the UK Government had not been given immediate prior warning of Mr Poots's announcement.

A government spokesman in London said: 'The operation of checks is a matter for the Northern Ireland executive. We have been consistently clear that there are significant problems with the protocol which urgently need fixing, which is why we are in intensive talks with the EU to find solutions.'

Mr Johnson was challenged over the rollout of the protocol at PMQs by DUP Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson

A spokesman added that Miss Truss would speak to European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic today. A diplomatic source said: 'Miss Truss is talking to Mr Sefcovic and is focused on finding practical solutions to the problems created by the protocol and protecting peace and political stability in Northern Ireland.'

Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said last night it was a matter for the Northern Ireland executive.

'It is something within their legal remit,' he told ITV. 'One of the frustrations is, this I have to say, is something we have been saying to the European Union for some time, was the kind of thing that we could see happening.

'It's exactly the sort of thing that we have been warning about in terms of the stability of the executive and the decisions the executive ministers will take in order to make sure that products can move from Great Britain to Northern Ireland in a way that they always have done.'
Is the Child Support Scheme Affecting the Mental Health of Fathers

Commentary

Over one million Australian children are currently living without their fathers and the legislation underpinning the family court system and the child support scheme has been a major factor contributing to the present crisis of fatherlessness in this country.

Contrary to popular belief, child support payments have nothing to do with irresponsible fathers abandoning their children.

Developed in the late 1980s to outset the jurisdiction of the courts, the nations child support scheme was largely driven by the need to ensure that private transfers of money from fathers to mothers reduced the burden of the state in terms of welfare expenditure.

According to Patrick Parkinson, a professor at the University of Queensland and one of the nations leading family law academics, the support scheme provides perverse incentives  for primary caregivers to resist children spending more time with the other parent to avoid a reduction in the child support obligation.

As far as possible, he adds, these perverse incentives must be avoided, and legislative policies in these areas should be in harmony rather than conflict.

Many women today can contemplate divorce with greater confidence that the financial benefits might outweigh the losses. For men, by contrast, a particular cause of dismay has been the imminent loss of contact with children they have loved, protected, and helped raise.

A common scenario is where the wife leaves, taking the children with herand sometimes all the furniture too. These wives get custody of the children, most of the value of the family house, and the child support agency ensures that the victimized husbands pay support for children they rarely see.

Another familiar scenario is where the husband is forced to pay the mortgage payments but forced to leave the family home immediately and pay rent for a separate residence for himself.

Child support payments have led to the breakdown of families in Australia. (fizkes/Shutterstock)

As noted by Barry Maley, a family policy expert: His marriage and its expectations have been destroyed, he has largely lost his children, lost his home and a large part of his income. His prospects of mending his shattered and impoverished life, re-partnering, and perhaps having other children, are minimal.

One can hear the testimony of countless husbands whose wives have run off and been awarded sole custody of children, while they are expected to pay child support and sometimes even spouse maintenance.

In this sense, research studies (pdf) indicate that divorce following the loss of meaningful contact with children is a major factor of male suicide. The death rate in Australia amongst child-support payers is almost double the rate of males who do not have administrative child support assessments.

We may therefore conclude that divorce followed by the loss of access to children has a strong net effect on mortality from suicide, but only among men. Amongst women, there are no statistically significant differentials in the risk of suicide by marital status categories.

This leads to an important question: Why are divorced men killing themselves?

Augustine Kpsowa, a sociology professor at the University of California-Riverside, explains that,

 there seems to be an implicit assumption that the bond between a women and her children is stronger than that between a man and his children. As a consequence, in a divorce settlement, custody of children is more likely to be given to the wife. In the end, the father loses not only his marriage, but his children. The result may be anger at the court system especially in situations wherein the husband feels betrayed because it was the wife that initiated the divorce, or because the courts virtually gave away everything that was previously owned by the ex-husband or the now defunct household to the former wife. Events could spiral into resentment (toward the spouse and the system), bitterness, anxiety, and depression, reduced self-esteem, and a sense of life not worth living. As depression and poor mental health are known markers of suicide risk, it may well be that one of the fundamental reasons for the observed association between divorce and suicide in men is the impact of post divorce (court sanctioned) arrangements.

Add in accusations of domestic violence and the father not only will be evicted from his property but also required to prove his innocence before he is allowed within 100 metres (328 feet) of his children.

A family walks together in Westminster, Calif., on Sept. 22, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

As noted by David Collier, a retired judge from the Parramatta Family Court, false accusations of domestic violence orders have become a major weapon in the war between parents to secure the sole custody of children.

The problem is how family violence orders are issued and the grounds for which they are made. There is a notorious lack of scrutiny about the nature and substance of these serious complaints.

Timing is a possible sign that someone is seeking such an order for some reasons which are other than a real concern for safety. A common example is that, after initiating custody proceedings, the accuser applies for this restraining order with the practical effect of obtaining an upper hand at family court proceedings.

Of course, not everyone who applies for a family violence order is necessarily a genuine victim, just as not everyone who is subject to such an order is not necessarily the perpetrator.

It goes without saying that laws cannot be written to the sole advantage of one partner without being labelled overtly sexist. Likewise, they can and have been used by male partners for equally malicious purposes.

In sum, there is a clear link between the child support scheme and attempts to eradicate the relationship between children and fathers. These fathers are paying support through the government yet alienated from their children.

Given that child support is calculated on the number of nights children spend with fathers, a moral hazard is created that can tempt a primary carer to withhold access for the basest of reasons, money.

If you need crisis support call Lifeline 13 11 14

Correction: Professor Patrick Parkinson is no longer dean of Law at the University of Queensland. The Epoch Times regrets the error.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Judge blocks Ohio law requiring proper disposal of aborted babies

A judge has issued a second preliminary injunction against an Ohio law that, among other things, requires that aborted babies be given proper disposal through burial or cremation.

Judge Alison Hatheway of the Court of Common Pleas in Hamilton County entered a preliminary injunction on Monday against Ohio Senate Bill 27, also known as the Unborn Child Dignity Act.

While the first preliminary injunction against the law was a temporary measure issued last year, this second injunction will remain in effect until a judgment in the case is reached.

Given the breadth of the Ohio Constitutions guarantees of bodily autonomy, privacy, and freedom of choice in health care, strict scrutiny must apply to a law that infringes on this protection, ruled Hatheway.

SB27 is not narrowly tailored to serve a compelling state interest  the State does not require health care facilities to dispose of identical tissue after miscarriage and infertility treatments by cremation or interment, thus casting strong doubt on the States claimed purposes.

The Planned Parenthood Federation of America, the American Civil Liberties Union, and a couple of abortion clinics issued a joint statement on Wednesday supporting the ruling.

Todays ruling reaffirms what we already know to be true: aggressive and cruel regulations like SB27 serve no other purpose than to impose severe burdens on abortion patients and providers, and to shame and stigmatize patients seeking essential health care, they stated.

We will continue to do everything in our power to ensure Ohioans have the freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies, their families, and their futures.

In late December 2020, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed SB 27 into law, which requires final disposition of fetal remains from a surgical abortion at an abortion facility (to) be by cremation or interment.

Other provisions include requiring abortion facilities to document in the pregnant womans medical record the final disposition determination made and maintain evidentiary documentation demonstrating the date and method of the disposition of fetal remains from surgical abortions performed or induced in the facility. Failure to comply with these will be a misdemeanor of the first degree.

Ohio Right to Life President Mike Gonidakis said in a statement released at the time that the new law showed that we respect life and we bury our dead.

No longer will the tiny bodies of babies whose lives have been tragically taken through abortion be treated like trash, said Gonidakis.

The abortion industry, who has for decades tried to convince women that the lives of their children dont matter and should simply be thrown away, will now be unable to hide behind this blatant lie.
Ms Wadsworth, who gushed about her visit to England on Facebook, was due to fly home to see her family in Canada tomorrow

She had flown from her home in Vernon, British Columbia, to be with her boyfriend Jack Sepple in November last year

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, was knifed to death following a 'disturbance' at an address in Chelmsford, Essex, at 4pm yesterday

The family of a Canadian teenager who was stabbed to death in a quiet Essex cul-de-sac just days before she was due to fly home after a trip to England to see her British boyfriend she met online have vowed to get justice for their 'baby girl'.

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, was discovered following a 'disturbance' at an address in Chelmsford, Essex, at 4pm on Tuesday.

She had flown to the UK to be with her boyfriend Jack Sepple, 23, on November 12 last year.

Ms Wadsworth was due to fly home to see her family in Vernon, British Columbia, on Thursday.

A 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Ms Wadsworth's heartbroken big sister, Hailey, vowed to get justice for her sibling.

She wrote on Facebook: 'My poor baby sister we will get justice baby girl I love you so much I miss you everyday your big sissy loves you.'

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, was found stabbed to death at an address in Essex. She had flown to the UK from her home in Canada to live with her boyfriend Jack Sepple (pictured together)

Ms Wadsworth (pictured) had been due to fly home to Vernon in British Columbia tomorrow

Essex Police detectives were at the scene today after they launched a murder investigation

Ms Wadsworth's heartbroken big sister, Hailey, vowed to get justice for her sibling

Hailey wrote on Facebook: 'My poor baby sister we will get justice baby girl I love you so much I miss you everyday your big sissy loves you'

Ms Wadsworth had posted a photograph of herself with Jack on Facebook on Sunday night and made the image her profile picture.

She had previously posted images of the couple smiling and enjoying sightseeing trips around Chelmsford and London.

The couple enjoyed a day out in the capital on January 9 to celebrate Jack's birthday, in which they visited Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

Larissa Kontos, a friend from Canada, posted an emotional tribute on Facebook.

She said: 'I've been trying to come up with words for hours. I have wrote out a post and then deleted it. Because nothing I say will bring you back. 'I will miss our conversations, you were always messaging me telling me the newest thing you saw on how a person can get pregnant! I will miss seeing your smile and beautiful face! 'You will be truly missed by so many. Shine bright girly.'

Ms Kontos added: 'She was a 19-year-old beautiful soul. She had a ticket for this Thursday to come back home to people whom lover her dearly.'

Ashley's aunt, Rosie Turcotte, wrote on Facebook: 'I am so angry, sad and f***ing mad.

'Want to say so much right now, but mama always said if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.

'Another special Angel gone way too soon.'

A neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: 'The police were called late yesterday afternoon and the whole street was crawling with officers.

'We could see the paramedics go into the living room of the house and they were working on someone for a while.

'They brought the young lady out into the road just outside the property and were continuing to try and save her.

'The police were talking about stab injuries. It seems that she was the victim of a frenzied attack. But the medics couldn't save her. It was awful to watch.'

Ms Wadsworth's friends and family paid tribute to the 'beautiful soul' on social media. Pictured: The teenager outside the gates of Buckingham Palace during a day out with boyfriend, Jack

According to Essex Police, officers were called to a disturbance at a home in Tennyson Rd, yesterday afternoon.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Police forensic officers were today still guarding the scene where she was found. Her cause of death is yet to be confirmed.

Senior Investigating Officer, DCI Scott Egerton, said: 'We are at the early stages of our investigation and are working to build a picture of what happened yesterday.

'This incident took place in a residential area so I know it's likely to cause concern for those living nearby but we have made a quick arrest and do not believe there is a risk to the wider public.

'There will continue to be a visible police presence in the area throughout today.

'If you have any concerns or any information please come and speak to one of our officers.'
Video posted to social media of a 13-year-old girl being punched in the face multiple times by a Phoenix police officer is stirring outrage in the community and online - but cops say the teen threw the first punch.

Police are investigating the incident that stemmed from an arrest of suspects in a stolen car found at an apartment complex on the city's west side on January 31.

In bodycam footage later released by police, 13-year-old Taylor Thomas is seen inching closer to an officer despite their warnings to stay back.

The scene quickly turned chaotic when the teen darted across the parking lot, and was tackled to the ground by a female officer who repeatedly punched her in the face.

The disturbing incident was caught on video by the teen's aunt, Charlene Thomas.

'I'm yelling "she's a minor!" You're gonna lock me up when I'm telling them  even when I told them she's a minor, they didn't stop,' Charlene said. 'She still kept going when she had her on the ground. She could've just stopped and done anything besides keep punching her.'

Police responded to the growing outrage by releasing what they say is a fuller picture of the incident and claimed the teen interfered with an arrest despite being ordered to stay back.

'A female officer saw her approaching the officers and grabbed her arm to pull her back,' Phoenix Police Sgt. Ann Justus stated in a release.

'The female swung her arm at the female officer, striking the female officer on the right side of the face. The officer's body-worn camera was knocked off at that time, and can be seen, on other officers' body camera videos, flying off of her vest. The female officer responded to being hit by striking the female in the face.'

Taylor Thomas was treated for minor injuries and booked in the Juvenile Correction Center on one count of aggravated assault on a police officer.

In body cam footage released by police, 13-year-old Taylor Thomas is seen inching closer to an officer despite their warnings to stay back

In the video, Thomas - wearing a gray hoodie and brightly patterned leggings - is seen walking closer to the officers despite their commands to stay back. She is heard cursing and walks out of the frame of the video just before she is tackled

The scene quickly turned chaotic when the teen darted across the parking lot, and was tackled to the ground by a female officer who repeatedly punched her in the face

An officer is seen grabbing the teen and starts swinging at her as she tackles her to the ground, landing several blows

Although the teen wasn't involved in the stolen car investigation, the teen's family is horrified that she was treated in such a way and want the department to be held accountable

The incident happened around 4:30 p.m. at an apartment complex near 61st Avenue and McDowell Road when officers arrived to investigate the report of a stolen car that had been spotted with people inside.

'This was a call of an occupied stolen vehicle with several people inside of it, including the minor female in the video,' Phoenix Police Sgt. Ann Justus stated in a release.

'At least two people, including that minor female, were arrested for charges including aggravated assault on a police officer.'

But the girl later told FOX10 a different story.

'I was never in the stolen car,' she said. 'I was out with four kids getting them ice cream.'

Taylor Thomas, 13, was booked in the Juvenile Correction Center on one count of aggravated assault on a police officer after police say she swung at an officer before being tackled during an incident on January 31

Charlene Thomas told FOX10 that her niece, Taylor Thomas, is being wrongly accused of assaulting an officer and is demanding that the department be held accountable

The department says the incident remains under review and investigators are continuing to gather information

Police did release an update the next day confirming that the teen was not inside the stolen car but that she did approach the officers and refused to stay back.

'The female then passed by the officers who ordered her to stay back, and quickly approached two officers who had a man in custody,' cops said.

Multiple recordings of the ensuing beating were posted online, prompting police to release a statement and their own body cam footage.

'The Phoenix Police Department is aware of a cell phone video circulating that depicts a moment in time of an event. In an effort to share the facts, we are releasing some of the body-worn camera to provide more context,' Justus said.

Justus detailed the incident, which she said began when officers were making arrests connected to the stolen vehicle investigation

'Four men got out of the car. As officers were taking them into custody, people began gathering around, several of them filming the officers,' Justus said. 'Other officers told onlookers they needed to stay back during the arrests.'

Javon Johnson, 25, was one of four men in the stolen car when Phoenix Police arrived at the apartment, who allegedly punched an officer in the face, and grabbed the officer's gun

Javon Johnson, 25, allegedly punched an officer in the face, and grabbed the officer's gun, which caused other officers to rush to help.

'A female, who officers later learned was 13 years old, approached the officers as they were still detaining people,' he explained. 'She was warned multiple times to get back. She walked in front of officers as they were trying to put one of the men in the backseat of a police car and was moved out of the way by an officer.'

In the video, Thomas - wearing a gray hoodie and brightly patterned leggings - is seen walking closer to the officers despite their commands to stay back. She is heard cursing and walks out of the frame of the video just before she is tackled.

Another angle, which shows the incident from above, shows the teen darting across the parking lot toward the sidewalk, right past a group of officers.

An officer is seen grabbing the teen and starts swinging at her as she tackles her to the ground, landing several blows.

'I thought my niece was just going to be unconscious the way that the officer did my niece,' the teen's aunt said. 'I just was devastated.'

Although the teen wasn't involved in the stolen car investigation, the teen's family is horrified that she was treated in such a way and want the department to be held accountable.

The incident has caught the attention of many in the community and on social media.

Nancy Ochoa, a neighbor of the teenager, told NBC12 she saw what happened.

'She went in to try and get a closer view from this way, that's when the cop grabbed her and started beating on her,' Ochoa said.

'The poor girl, she's traumatized. Her face is swollen, she has cuts all over her eye,' Ochoa said.

Charlene Thomas told FOX10 that her niece is being wrongly accused of assaulting an officer and is demanding that the department be held accountable.

The department says the incident remains under review and investigators are continuing to gather information.
Students from Barrington High School leave school for the day on Jan. 31, 2022. District 220 is one of 146 Illinois school districts named in a lawsuit targeting Gov J.B. Pritzker's mitigation protocols at schools. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)

As Illinois parents and educators await a Springfield judges ruling that could roll back Gov. J.B. Pritzkers COVID-19 school mask mandate, some suburban school districts are demanding the state deliver an off ramp from nearly two years of required virus mitigations.

The school districts requests for transition guidance from the state is emerging this week as 146 school districts, including Chicago Public Schools, prepare for the impact of a pending decision by Sangamon County Circuit Judge Raylene Grischow, who is expected to rule soon on a request to temporarily halt the governors executive orders on masking and quarantining for schools.

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Grischow is considering a lawsuit from about 700 parents who allege the states virus mitigation rules for schools, including masking and exclusion from class for students who were exposed to the virus and their close contacts, deprives students of due process.

But the litigation is lingering alongside plummeting COVID-19 rates in recent weeks, prompting some suburban school district leaders and parents to ask Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the states board of education to provide guidance on how to eventually transition away from virus protocol, including masking, social distancing and exclusion from school.

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In a Tuesday tweet directed to IDPH, the Illinois State board of Education and Pritzker, Kaine Osburn, the superintendent at Wilmette-based Avoca School District 37 said, Numbers are declining. You dont need to answer now, but in the coming weeks please develop a plan & metrics for the option to off-ramp masks in schools. Its leadership only your team can provide & things will get messy without it.

Osburns plea was accompanied by an IDPH chart showing steep drops in the rolling 7-day average COVID-19 positivity rate as omicron peaked and then began to decline.

Im not saying were going to get rid of masks now, but that its time for a plan, Osburn said in a Tuesday interview. Were getting pressure from the community on both sides.

Officials at Winnetka Public Schools District 36 are also seeking guidance from the state with hopes of transitioning out of required virus protocol with the goal of being ready once conditions improve.

I am writing to advocate for school and health officials working together to design an exit strategy for COVID-19 mitigations and a measured return to normalcy, District 36 Superintendent Trisha Kocanda said in a letter to Pritzker and IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike.

Officials with the state health department and state school board did not respond to a request for comment.

One question surrounding the litigation before Grischow is whether local school boards would have the authority to pass their own virus mitigation measures if she grants a temporary restraining order halting the governors virus protocols.

In Barrington 220 School District, which is among the districts facing litigation, the board of education voted Monday to approve benchmarks that officials said will inform future mitigation decisions.

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Assuming current case trends continue and local control is an option, we will likely share a date and more details on a shift to situational masking, officials said in a parent letter.

In the meantime, officials said the district remains universally masked with all contract tracing and quarantine procedures.

In recent weeks, there has been a steep drop in the average rate of new COVID-19 cases, per 100,000 school-age children, particularly in the Chicago area, according to a Tribune analysis of state and census data. After peaking around 300 new cases a day, per 100,000 kids ages 5-17, regions in the Chicago area have now dropped below half that, and some far more.

In Chicago, for example, by Tuesday, the rate of newly detected cases averaged under 50 after peaking near 280. Chicagos rate for school-age children hasnt been this low since mid-December, although its still roughly triple what it was around Halloween.

Barrington resident Marsha McClary, a mother of five who has four children enrolled in District 220, said given the recent decline in virus rates, it was responsible of the school board to prepare for an eventual halting of COVID-19 school mitigations.

McClary is among the contingent of parents who believe when it comes to students, the masks are causing more harm than good.

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My daughter tells me she cant hear the teacher. ... They cant see the expressions on the faces of their teachers and friends, to know if they are happy or upset, and to gauge their reactions, McClary said.

I think the vast majority of those who want to see an end to masking are not anti-mask, but we want to make decisions for our own families, she said.

For Arlington Heights resident Robyn Swanson, a mother of three  including 13-year-old twins who had liver transplants as toddlers, and are immunocompromised  the future of the states mask mandate and other COVID-19 mitigation strategies is deeply personal.

We had an incredible journey and a long fight getting our kids healthy, so its very frustrating when people say, most kids are fine when they get COVID, said Swanson, whose children attend Arlington Heights School District 25.

District 25 is one of 21 Illinois school districts facing a lawsuit targeting the states requirement that school employees either receive the COVID-19 vaccine or test weekly.

Are we willing to write off that 1 to 2% of students? Thats just not OK, but I do get that its very difficult for people to understand, because if your kids were never in a situation like mine, its hard to put your head around it, Swanson said.

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kcullotta@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @kcullotta
The primary students at St. Katharine Drexel had a special picnic lunch with their families Wednesday as the school continues the celebration of Catholic Schools Week.

Students were greeted with family members providing lunches for their little ones during their lunch hour.

The week-long celebration began last weekend with celebrating the parish including the open weekend Masses.

National Catholic Schools Week began in 1974 to celebrate Catholic education in the United States. The theme for National Catholic Schools Week 2022 is Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.

At St. Katharine Drexel School, the book drive was kicked off on Monday and activities to celebrate the students were held on Tuesday. St. Katharine Drexel Principal Jennifer Crombie said that each day has a special dress up theme, and Wednesdays was western. There were also country western theme games that were played. Thursday night the school is open for the festival of educational arts.

The 3K to 8th grade students all show their talents, Crombie said. Artwork is displayed, the schools chorus and band perform, Crombie said. Even the youngest students participate by performing in plays. The doors open at 6 p.m. and the evening runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The week ends with an all school Mass Friday. During the afternoon, the students will watch Zootopia.
Chicago Teachers Union President Jesse Sharkey sits back down after speaking at a Chicago Board of Education meeting in which COVID-19, union matters and various related issues were discussed on Jan. 26, 2022. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

Chicago Teachers Union President Jesse Sharkey  who led the union through the 2019 teachers strike and last months work stoppage for more COVID-19 protections  announced Wednesday that he will not seek another term in the unions spring election.

Sharkey plans to finish his term through June and return to teaching. He said he made this decision before the strife with City Hall that led to classes being canceled for five days last month and before a group within the union launched a campaign to unseat Sharkey and other officers on May 20.

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This is something Ive been thinking about for a couple of months and would have made the announcement earlier, but for the fact that there was the omicron surge, and we were in this dispute with the board about a safety agreement back in December and January, Sharkey told reporters. That was not a time that I needed to be distracting people in the city or the membership.

Chicago Teachers Union President Jesse Sharkey rallies members and supporters on the first day of the teachers strike on Oct. 17, 2019. (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune)

Jesse Sharkey was mentored by and served as vice president under the late former CTU President Karen Lewis. The two are shown at a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Clergy Breakfast in Chicago in 2015. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

Sharkey said he will continue to be a member of the CTU, which he joined in 1998. The Maine native and father of two taught social studies at Senn High School and Chicago Vocational Career Academy before being elected vice president of the union in 2010 alongside President Karen Lewis.

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Sharkey, 52, became acting president in 2014 while Lewis battled brain cancer. He officially succeeded Lewis in 2018 and his Caucus of Rank and File Educators (CORE) won reelection in 2019. The caucus faces another challenge from the Members First Caucus, which has criticized CTU leaders for putting their own careers ahead of the needs of the unions 25,000 members and relying on work stoppages instead of collaborating with City Hall and Chicago Public Schools officials to achieve better working conditions.

Mary Esposito-Usterbowski, the presidential candidate on the Members First slate, released a statement saying Sharkeys announcement is an acknowledgment that now is the time to bring new leadership to our union. This May, the CTU can start building stronger relationships with community stakeholders and city leaders so we can deliver more for CTU members and better serve Chicagos students.

Teachers went on strike for two weeks in 2019 before reaching a deal for salary increases and class-size limits. Tense negotiations over COVID-19 safety protocols in early 2021 led to an agreement to reopen CPS schools in waves.

CTU and CPS initially failed to secure a safety agreement for this school year, and the district canceled classes for five days after the unions rank-and-file members voted not to work in person during Januarys coronavirus surge. As part of the new deal, the district agreed to provide students and staff members KN95 masks; abide by metrics that would temporarily transition a school to remote learning; and increase incentives for substitute teachers.

Sharkey said it will be up to CORE to determine its leadership slate for the May election. He did throw his support behind CTU Vice President Stacy Davis Gates, whom he praised as our unions most effective spokesperson, our unions best strategist.

CTU President Jesse Sharkey and Vice President Stacy Davis Gates share a hug after announcing on Oct. 30, 2019, that they'd reached a tentative deal with Mayor Lori LIghtfoot to end the two-week teachers strike. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune)

Davis Gates commended Sharkey for his leadership, especially following Lewis death last year.

You dont get bargaining rights, an elected school board, a moratorium on school closures, a strong charter educator division without him. Where Karen gave us the infrastructure, the confidence, the boldness, the idea that these things could happen, Jesse helped to see those things through. He led us through that, Davis Gates told reporters.

And when we lost Karen, he held our hands, and he reassured us that we were still going to get where we needed to get. And look at where we are. He has been one of the most dynamic, dependable and stable leaders that this city has ever had.

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A Colona man accused of killing a child in January pleaded not guilty Wednesday afternoon to the multiple first-degree murder and aggravated battery charges he now faces.

The 14-month-old girl died Sunday of injuries authorities allege were caused by Rahsaan Malik Strawder, 38, of 710 4th St., on Thursday. The case was investigated by the Colona and Moline police departments.

For Wednesdays hearing, Strawder appeared via Zoom before Associate Judge James J. Cosby Jr. at the Henry County Courthouse in Cambridge.

Strawder told Cosby he wanted to waive a formal reading of the charges, to plead not guilty to them and to demand a jury trial, verifying paperwork filed by his attorney, Lance Camp.

The jury trial has been tentatively set for March 28.

Strawder was initially charged with a single Class 3 felony count of aggravated battery causing great bodily harm, according to court records.

The allegation underlying that charge was that Strawder violently shook the girl, causing a brain injury, according to court records.

He is now charged with two counts each of first-degree murder and aggravated battery, court records state.

The new charges accuse Strawder of striking the girl against a hard surface as well as shaking her. These actions, authorities contend, caused a brain injury and led to the girls death.

The new aggravated battery charges were both more severe versions: aggravated battery of a child, according to court records.

Murder is a Class M felony under Illinois law that carries a prison sentence of 20-60 years and can be extended to life under certain circumstance.

Aggravated battery to a child is a Class X felony that carries a prison sentence of six to 30 years.

Strawder also waived a preliminary hearing scheduled for Feb. 7.

A preliminary hearing is an early test of the case against the defendant. Prosecutors present an outline of the evidence  usually through the testimony of a police officer  to a judge who then decides whether there is enough evidence for the case against the defendant to continue. Before the judge makes a ruling, the defense has an opportunity to question the witness. The burden of proof is not considered high, and defendants often waive the hearing, though they maintain the presumption of innocence if they do so.

His next court date, a pretrial conference, is scheduled for Feb. 24.

Strawder is being held in the Henry County Jail on $1 million bail, according to court records. To be released he would have to post a $100,000 bond.

The Colona Police Department stated in a release that it was first notified of the case by the Moline Police Department. The attack on the child was initially reported to that agency but it was determined the incident happened in Colona. The two agencies then worked together on the investigation.

Strawder was on parole from the East Moline Correctional Center at the time and is a registered sex offender.

He was incarcerated in the East Moline Correctional Center after being convicted in 2016 of robbery and aggravated battery causing great bodily harm in Kane County, according to Illinois Department of Corrections electronic records. He was released from prison and placed on parole on June 25, 2021, or about seven months ago.

Strawder is required to register as a sex offender. He was convicted in 2002 in Kane County of aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a victim age 13-16. The victim was 16 at the time, according to the Illinois Sex Offender Registry.

Strawders criminal history also includes convictions for aggravated arson, residential burglary and fraud, according to Illinois Department of Corrections electronic records.

Neighbors both across the street and directly next door to the home where Strawder was living and where police spent considerable time after his arrest said they never saw a baby there. They said he moved in with a woman already living in the home last May. When the woman moved out, they said, another moved in.

An across-the-street neighbor in Colona said she was aware he was a registered sex offender, but a next-door neighbor said he didn't know.
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) has welcomed the judgment handed down by the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court for former Chief Engineer, Daniel Mthimkhulu, who was found guilty on three counts of fraud.

Mthimkhulu was charged with nine counts of fraud for allegedly misrepresenting his qualifications to Prasa, including claims that he had a masters degree from the University of Witwatersrand, as well as a Doctorate in Engineering Management from the Technische Universitat Munchen (Munich Technical University) in Germany, Prasa said on Monday.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said Mthimkhulu has also misled the agency about another offer of employment he had allegedly received.

In June 2010, he lied to Prasa about a job offer received from a German engineering firm, for a position as an engineering services specialist, at a salary of R2.8 million per annum, she said.

Consequently, Prasa made Mthimkulu a counter offer in September 2010 at a salary of R2.8 million.

Prasa suffered financial prejudice in that Mthimkhulus salary was increased from R1.6 million to R2.8 million, a significant injustice to Prasa.

The case has been remanded to 24 February 2022 for sentencing proceedings.

Prasa management and its legal team are waiting for sentencing proceedings and will make further comments in due course. Prasa deems fraud and misrepresentation of qualifications in a very serious light as well acts of fraud that seek to prejudice the entity.

Prasa is currently going through a skills audit process to root out the falsification of qualifications, if any. This judgment is another milestone in Prasas quest to clean up the entity, the agency said.
POCATELLO  The Bannock County Sheriffs Office is leading an investigation into the culprits behind ibuprofen-laced hot dogs being left along hiking trails in the Pocatello area.

At least two dogs have already consumed the drug-laced hot dogs, according U.S. Forest Service public affairs officer Jared Fisher.

As little as 100 milligrams of ibuprofen can exceed toxic levels in a dog, and timely medical attention is required if a dog digests that much. Fisher said in a news release that at least one of the dogs was taken to a veterinarian, where they induced vomiting.

According to VCA Animal Hospitals, signs of ibuprofen poisoning in dogs can include decreased appetite, vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea and bloody stools, among other symptoms.

With the investigation ongoing, the Westside Ranger District is urging dog owners to keep an eye on their pets when on trails. The U.S. Forest Service is also assisting with the investigation.
St. Josephs Catholic School in Baraboo honored veterans during Catholic Schools Week.

On Feb. 2, the school kept up its long-running program of students drawing Valentines for former military service members during a week dedicated to Catholic schools. The program, Valentines for Veterans, has been running for over 10 years, according to St. Josephs Catholic School administrative assistant Cheryl Filipiak, and students at all grade levels participate.

It is a great opportunity for our kids to honor our service members, said Filipiak. We thought Catholic Schools Week was a great time to do that. Thats what that is about. Service and acknowledgement of others.

In conjunction with designing the symbols of gratitude for veterans, students were encouraged to wear red, white and blue, according to the schools weekly bulletin. The students did their artwork at various times in the morning following Mass, which concluded at 9:15 a.m.

The (Valentines for) Veterans is near and dear to my heart because I have two sons that are veterans and we have a lot of parishioners who are veterans as well, said St. Josephs Catholic School principal Denise Brinker, whose son Nicholas is the Chief of Police in Wisconsin Dells.

Marlene Powell, the president of Greenwood Memorial Post 987, said that St. Josephs, along with Community Christian School and St. Johns Lutheran School in Baraboo, have been doing the project for many years. Powell has held her post since 2007 and she said that shortly after that, St. Josephs began doing the Valentines.

She came to us and asked if wed be willing to make some Valentines for veterans, said Filipak of Powell.

The students artwork is sent to Wisconsin Veterans Home at King, a state-operated facility southwest of Waupaca, according to Powell. She said there are 374 veterans currently at the home, and she expects to have that many Valentines from the schools.

Weve been dealing with them for a long time, said Powell of Wisconsin Veterans Home at King. These Valentines will be up there for Valentines Day.
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The Principal of the Government Pre-university College for Women in Udupi who has barred eight girls from entering their classrooms wearing the hijab has only the colleges uniform code on his side to defend his action. To back up the defence, there is also the claim that the students had signed a declaration at the time of admission to the effect that they would abide by the rules of the college. These do not stand a chance against constitutional rights. The students have not been allowed to attended classes for over a month though they have gone to the college every working day. They have been seen sitting in the corridors. The Karnataka government has supported the college authorities. The state Education Minister has called the wearing of the hijab an act of indiscipline.

The students have said that they have gone to the college wearing the prescribed uniform. They have not added anything to the uniform. The hijab they wear is the scarf, which is a part of the uniform, wrapped around their head. In any case, the students have the right to wear their religious symbols. The uniform rule imposed by a college or a state government cannot override the right to freedom of religion granted by Article 25 of the Constitution. The Article guarantees freedom of conscience and the right freely to profess, practise and propagate religion. The practice of religion would normally include the wearing of markers of faith associated with the religion.

At least one High Court has recognised the hijab as an essential part of Islamic religion and accepted the right of students to wear it as part of their religious practice. In a petition over the right to wear the hijab in an examination hall in 2015, the Kerala High Court said that it cannot be insisted that a particular dress code be followed failing which a student would be prohibited from sitting for the examination. It dealt with the matter again in 2016 and examined the Koran and the Hadith to see if the hijab and the long-sleeved dress are essential to the practice of the Islamic faith. It held that the wearing of the head scarf and the long-sleeved dress was a religious duty for Muslim women. If a student has the right to wear the hijab while taking an exam, she should also have the right to wear it to the college every day.

The matter came up before the Supreme Court also the same year. The court only made an observation by asking the petitioners, who had sought permission to wear the hijab in an examination hall, why it could not be removed for three hours. It did not pronounce any order in the case and allowed the petitioners to withdraw the petition.

While these are the existing judicial pronouncements on the matter, it is difficult to see how the girls could be denied their right to wear the hijab. The usual exceptions relating to public order, morality and health do not apply here. The issue of the use or non-use of religious symbols by members of the armed forces or other disciplined forces is a different matter. These are governed by specific laws passed by Parliament and are in conformity with the Constitution. The discipline in these forces is in any case different from the discipline that the Karnataka Education Minister talks about.

The wearing of the hijab cannot be treated differently from the wearing of the turban, the mangalsutra, bindis, bangles, crosses and other commonly worn religious symbols and icons. Nor is there any logic in the college authorities statement that the students can wear the hijab on the campus but should remove it in the classroom. The question why only some Muslim students insist on wearing the hijab while most of them do not wear it is also wrong. Those who want to wear it should have the right to do so, whatever others do, and that is why it is an individual right.

The wearing of religious symbols in educational institutions and in social life has not been frowned upon or objected to in the country till recently. The uniform should not be made an excuse for that. The school or college uniform should not be a rigid outfit that rejects and excludes the fundamental rights of those who wear it. A dress code in civil life should have room for accommodation and inclusion. Tolerance and respect for others can well be tailored into it.

Stripped to its basics, the controversy is not about uniform or discipline. It arises from the politics of intolerance directed at people who can be identified by their clothes. The hijab is hit because it is a visible sign of minority faith which the majoritarian politics does not want to be seen in public and seeks to suppress and control. The problem is not the uniform, but the urge to impose uniformity across society. It is part of the attacks on minority communities in politics, social and public spaces and in religious places. It is about intolerance and discrimination, and the unwillingness to recognise and accept differences.

When identities  religious, linguistic, racial or others  are allowed to flourish, they often cease to be self-conscious and sometimes even lose themselves. But when they are attacked, they try to assert themselves. That is what the girls are doing with their hijabs.

The hijab, the turban, the cross or the namam are not just markers of identity. They are not just the things they are made of, but are symbols of centuries of human experience and aspirations. They link the mundane world with other worlds and exist both in religious imagination and everyday reality. They link individuals to their communities and invoke meanings deeper than their significance in everyday life, though the meanings change in new social and cultural contexts. That is why the attacks on them are taken as attempts to cut the individuals off from the community and to purge them of the spiritual and social capital accumulated through centuries.

This should also be considered: If the Prime Minister, who has sworn an oath under the Constitution to uphold secularism and non-discrimination, can conduct a homa, which is a religious ritual, wearing religious attire, in public, cant the students go to their college wearing the hijab? While the image of the Prime Minister as a priest endures and feeds the public imagination, the image of the woman as a Muslim offends and is sought to be driven away from the public gaze. That is a poor sign of the times.
PHOENIX  A House panel voted Wednesday after heated debate to prohibit election officials from accepting already filled-out early ballots at polling places unless voters first provide identification.

The party-line 7-6 vote by the Republican-dominated House Committee on Government and Elections came amid questions about whether the measure would erect new barriers to voting.

Rep. Lorenzo Sierra, D-Avondale, said it would exacerbate long lines to cast a ballot that often occur now.

The rhetoric turned contentious among several lawmakers with sharply divergent views on what effect House Bill 2241 would have on members of minority communities  and whether requirements to present ID are effectively saying that minorities cant manage to comply.

As a person of color ... I am a little offended that we say, Oh, poor people or minorities or people of color, they dont have ID and weve got to make is super easy for them to vote,  said Rep. Teresa Martinez, R-Casa Grande. She said she was speaking not only as someone of color but as the mother of a child who is Black and Native American.

It is a lot offensive that people want to say, Oh, you poor little thing, Ill help you, well make it easy for you,  Martinez said.

She similarly dismissed concerns that residents of some rural areas lack the kind of identification the legislation would require.

I can assure you that people in Casa Grande, people in Stanfield, people in Pichacho, people in Superior, Hayden, Winkelman, they have ID, Martinez said. Thats because when police come to talk with them, for example, they are asked to produce identification, she said.

House Minority Leader Reginald Bolding, D-Laveen, told Martinez that just because access to polling places hasnt been an issue for her and her family does not mean there is no problem.

I havent been shot by police, he said. But that doesnt mean other African-American across this country arent shot by police. So that doesnt mean thats not an issue.

He said lawmakers need to look beyond their own experiences.

Martinez was not impressed by that example.

White people are shot by police as well, she said, saying that looking at issues in this way create(s) people of color as victims.

I can help myself, Martinez said. I can help people of my same color.

Violation would be a felony

Anyone who has received an early ballot is free to drop it in a mailbox without further ID.

Some people, however, choose to wait until the last minute and take them to a polling place. Under current law, all they need do is drop it off.

HB 2241 says election workers would need to demand ID on which the voters name reasonably appears to be the same as on the ballot affidavit.

Those dropping off ballots for others would need their own ID and also would have to sign an affidavit that they are handling only those from family members, household members or caregivers.

In both cases, failure to comply would be a felony, with the penalty of a year in prison.

Rep. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, who wrote the measure, said this isnt about race. He said polls show that a majority of Hispanics, Blacks and Asians support voter ID requirements.

Hoffman said its also not partisan, saying a poll found 69% of Democrats surveyed want people to produce identification when casting ballots.

We want to make it as easy as possible for every legal ballot to be cast, he said. And we want to make it hard for illegal ballots to be cast.

Sierra said that ignores the hurdles Hoffmans bill would impose. He cited the situation in his own voting precincts, where about 800 people come to the polls.

Half the people come with their early ballots filled out, Sierra said. These are people who like getting their ballots early, filling them out at home, putting it in the envelope, and liking the convenience of just dropping it off, yet still participating in Election Day.

Theres already long lines at that polling station, he said. If we are doing this, boy, we are just making it so inconvenient for working people that want to drop off their ballot, that have done right by the electoral system and by our democracy.

Jennifer Marson, executive director of the Arizona Association of Counties, said the legislation would complicate the existing process where poll workers check in people who come to fill out their ballots on Election Day. Its often hard enough to get enough people to staff these facilities, she said.

HB 2241 would force those who just want to drop off their already filled-out ballots to get in the same line to check in, Marson said.

So, on the voters end, youre going to have longer wait lines in the instances where its a big election, she said, not just for those who simply want to drop off their ballots but those waiting in line to vote that day.

The measure now needs approval of the full House.

Among many proposals

The measure is just one of many proposals this year by Republican lawmakers to impose new requirements on the voting process. Others range from limiting or outlawing drop boxes, to restricting or eliminating early voting.

Bolding said this bill is part of a larger agenda by the Legislatures Republican majority.

Weve seen a sustained effort at the Legislature to make it more difficult to use the vote-by-mail system, he said, and not just this year. Bolding pointed out that lawmakers last session scrapped the permanent early voting list, requiring counties to stop sending early ballots to people who decide not to use them in two successive election cycles.
Top oil-producing countries led by Saudi Arabia and Russia announced another modest increase in output on Wednesday despite soaring crude prices and geopolitical tensions rattling the markets.

The 23-nation OPEC+ group said in a statement that it will increase production by 400,000 barrels per day in March, the same amount as in previous months.

The group, which includes the 13 members of the Saudi-led Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and their 10 allies, including Russia, has resisted US pressure to further boost production to tame prices.

OPEC+ said in its statement following a ministerial videoconference that the decision was made "in view of current oil market fundamentals and the consensus on the outlook".

The alliance's prudent approach dates back to the spring of 2021 as demand recovered after drastic 2020 cuts in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The announcement Wednesday "was hardly surprising, as the group has rigidly followed this approach since it was first agreed upon, even in December when oil prices plunged following the emergence of Omicron," said Edward Gardner, commodities expert at Capital Economics.

"What matters going forward is whether OPEC+ can keep up with its planned production increases," he said.

Oil prices hit seven-year highs in January, with the main international crude contract, Brent, topping $90. Prices are now hovering under $90.

Victoria Scholar, an expert at Interactive Investor, said she expected "further gains" due to solid demand and "drip-feed production increases" by OPEC+.

OPEC+ is already struggling to meet its quotas with some members, such as Angola and Nigeria, unable to scale up their production and others, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, unwilling to do so, said Carsten Fritsch of Commerzbank.

In December, the total volume of OPEC+ output increased by only 90,000 barrels per day, far short of the 400,000 target, according to a survey by the Bloomberg news agency.

Russia was complying with its commitments, Moscow's energy minister, Alexander Novak, told Rossiya 24 television.

But there were "a number of uncertainties" weighing on demand while the coronavirus pandemic was still ongoing, he said.

The market has been further boosted by soaring geopolitical tensions plaguing stalwarts of oil production -- Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The United Arab Emirates on Monday intercepted another ballistic missile launched by Yemen's Huthi rebels, the latest attack on the Gulf country, which is part of a Saudi-led military coalition.

In Europe, tensions between Moscow and Western allies are at their highest point since the Cold War after Russia massed troops on its border with Ukraine.

"Ukraine-Russia (tensions) can only keep pushing it up as long as the situation keeps getting worse," said Neil Wilson, analyst at Markets.com.

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Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament (MP) for Obuasi East, Edward Enin, has called for the restructuring of the leadership of the majority caucus of Parliament.

He suspects the majority leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has become fatigue and has lost his touch with being a leader because he has held the position for so long.

According to him, a sharp majority leader would have been proactive and seen to the stakeholder engagement and consensus-building in Parliament way before the e-levy was presented in the 2022 budget statement.

In an exclusive interview with Happy98.9FMs Don Kwabena Prah on the Epa Hoa Daben political talk show, Edward Enin said I was in Parliament when the sale of Vodafone was debated. We discussed it extensively and saw some MPs speak up against then-President Kufuor for trying to sell the company. But it is in such cases that you see who a good leader is.

He stressed that if the current majority leader had negotiated and built consensus ahead of the discussion and subsequent vote on the e-levy, all this wouldnt have happened. The leadership in Parliament didnt do well in this regard.

The politician further chastised the majority caucus for thinking they could win the previous votes for the passage of the e-levy knowing they had a slim advantage.

When you work for long in a particular position, one becomes stale and it affects your delivery because you are tired. We need a reshuffle at the leadership level in Parliament, Edward Enin posited.

The former MP also charged the current crop of MPs and leadership of the NPP to seek counsel from the more experienced and knowledgeable former MPs.

----happyghana
Lake County prosecutors said Wednesday that they will seek enhanced sentences of up to life in prison for the mother and brother accused in the killing of Damari Perry.

Jannie Perry, 38, and her son, Jeremiah, 20, have been indicted on a raft of felony charges in the death of the 5-year-old North Chicago boy, whose burned body was dumped following his death from being forced to take a prolonged cold shower as a punishment, authorities said.

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Jannie Perry had previously been charged with murder in her sons death. The murder indictments against Damaris brother Jeremiah represented upgraded charges  he had previously been facing a battery count for his alleged role in Damaris death.

Prosecutors are alleging that the killing was exceptionally brutal and heinous, language that signals prosecutors intend to seek enhanced sentences in the event of convictions on the first-degree murder charges,

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Damaris final minutes warrant the sentencing enhancements that accompany such brutal and heinous circumstances, States Attorney Eric Rinehart said in a statement released Wednesday. The defendants stunning failure to seek medical attention demonstrates their intent to end Damaris life. Transporting and burning the body as part of a cover up also warranted the additional serious charges we filed today.

In addition to eight counts of murder, a Lake County grand jury returned indictments for the Perrys for aggravated battery of a child, dismembering a human body, conspiracy, aggravated domestic battery, concealment of a homicidal death, endangering the life or health of a child, abuse of a corpse, and each was also charged with obstructing justice.

Jannie Perry was also indicted on one count of failure to report the death or disappearance of a child under 13 years of age.

Authorities allege that Damari died on the night Dec. 29  the day before his sixth birthday  when he was forced to remain in a cold shower for an extended period, reportedly as a punishment for misbehavior. He became ill and died, and authorities say family members did not seek medical attention for the boy.

The family reported him missing in early January, but authorities suspected foul play. After questioning family members, authorities found Perrys body wrapped in a trash bag and dumped in a neighborhood in Gary, Indiana. The boys body had been charred by fire, authorities said.

Jannie and Jeremiah Perry are due in court Feb. 7 to be arraigned.

The funeral for Damari Perry was held Tuesday, prosecutors said.
A day after the Union Budget proposed to launch India's own digital rupee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday listed the virtues of such a currency that will be fully backed by the Reserve Bank of India and hence it will be legal tender.

He said the central bank digital currency or the digital rupee will make online payments more secure and risk-free and boost the digital economy in the years to come.

Speaking on the broad contours of the Budget, which he said could not be fully read out in such a short slot allocated in Parliament, he said the digital rupee will create new opportunities and lessen the burden in handling, printing, logistics management of cash.

Read | Experts see digital rupee as a big boon to India

Modi said it will also revolutionise the fintech sector.

"The digital rupee will be the digital form of our physical rupee and will be regulated by the RBI. This will be such a system that will enable an exchange of physical currency with digital currency," Modi said at the virtual meeting of party workers and chief ministers of BJP-ruled states.

The RBI is expected to launch the digital currency from the financial year 2022-23. According to the Union Budget, it will be backed by blockchain technology.

The Prime Minister said the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) will strengthen the digital economy. If anyone makes a payment in digital currency, he or she will be able to change it to cash.

It will make online payments and transfers risk-free and more secure.

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In the great commonwealth of Virginia, we pride ourselves on a thriving economy with a supportive environment for business owners and workers. But theres a serious gap in policy and practice, particularly on the issue of pay. There is a law on the books from 1938 that still allows workers with disabilities to be treated as less than fully human and paid a fraction of the minimum wage.

Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act allows employers to pay wages below minimum wage to employees whose productivity is impaired by a physical, developmental, cognitive, mental or age-related disability. The lower wage is derived by comparing the productivity of the worker with a disability to the average productivity of typical workers deemed competent for the job.

While 14(c) allows the payment of subminimum wages to people with documented disabilities based on productivity, it makes no such allowance for less productive typically abled workers. It is ableism in its ugliest form and an affront to civil rights.

Fortunately, Virginia has an opportunity to end this archaic practice once and for all by adopting House Bill 676  bipartisan legislation that modernizes the commonwealths disability policy and prohibits the payment of subminimum wages.

Melwood, where I serve as president and CEO, was founded in 1963 when a small group of parents and community supporters decided to teach plant care to young adults who were considered by most to be incapable of being trained and employed. Our first victories were just getting in the door, arranging an interview and landing a job  any job. At the time, we were swimming against a strong current and 14(c) was an imperfect but helpful tool.

As time progressed, Melwood developed a track record of proving people with disabilities often are perfect for the job. The challenge no longer was simply getting an opportunity; it was ensuring that people with disabilities were set up to succeed and not subjected to disparate treatment in the workplace.

As Melwood celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2013, we recognized that, while 14(c) created opportunities in our early days, it stood counter to our vision and set a poor example for other companies looking to us as a leader in disability employment. We worked to find the resources to bring all of our employees up to the prevailing wage and ensure no one was left behind. It didnt happen overnight but by 2016, Melwood completely ended its use of 14(c).

Opponents of HB 676 will argue that eliminating subminimum wages will negatively impact those with the most significant disabilities. Some are concerned that it will reduce employment opportunities, leaving people with disabilities fewer options for out-of-the-house activities. Others fear raising wages will put certain federal benefits at risk. While one can understand these concerns, Melwoods story proves they often are overstated and can be overcome.

Yes, ending 14(c) will mean some of the old ways of supporting and employing people with disabilities no longer will be viable. Melwood had to discontinue some of its lines of business because they suddenly were in the red.

But we also stood up new pilot programs that created new career paths and opportunities. Our transition serves as proof that leaving 14(c) behind does not mean you are leaving employees behind. Id go further and argue that ending 14(c) at Melwood made us more innovative, more competitive and improved our corporate culture.

The continued practice of paying people with disabilities less than the minimum wage reinforces the discriminatory premise that people with disabilities arent capable, dont warrant investment and arent going anywhere. Its this bigotry of low expectations that foreshadows, and often directly causes, a life of poverty, segregation and dependency on public support.

By passing HB 676, the General Assembly can affirm we all deserve the dignity of meaningful work and fair wages.
An unidentified man remains in critical condition at an undisclosed hospital as of Wednesday after being shot earlier this week at an apartment building in Arlington Heights, according to authorities.

Arlington Heights police announced in a news release that on Monday, officers responded around 7:25 p.m. to a call of shots fired at an apartment building in the 400 block of West Rand Road. Police said in the release that several people called 911 and reported hearing gunshots on the fourth floor of the building.

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Upon arriving on the scene, officers found a man in the lobby of the building who had been shot in his leg and lower torso. The incident is being called an aggravated battery with a firearm, according to the release, and authorities are not releasing details related to the incident.

The man received medical attention onsite by responding officers before being treated by fire department paramedics and then transported to an undisclosed Level 1 trauma center for care. The man remains in critical condition, Arlington Heights police officials confirmed with Pioneer Press Wednesday.

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Monday night, police searched the apartment building and surrounding area for additional victims or any persons of interest related to the incident, the release states. Authorities would not disclose any additional information except to confirm with Pioneer Press that the man was not a resident of the apartment building.

However, police said in the release that, initial information strongly suggests the victim was specifically targeted and the incident remains isolated.

Arlington Heights Police Department detectives and forensic technicians are investigating, according to the release.

Three weeks ago to the day, there was a fire at this same apartment building, police Commander Petar Milutinovic confirmed. However, the commander said there is no connection between the two incidents.

In the case of the fire, an 80-year-old man who lived in the building has been charged with aggravated arson after investigators said he set his apartment on fire.

Milutinovic also said that due to the ongoing investigation into the shooting Monday, and the nature of the incident, personal identifying information regarding the man shot cannot be disclosed.

Joey Arnone is a freelancer.
Sinister secret codes used by online child abuse predators have been revealed as police warn parents of the danger signs they need to look out for.

Police chiefs fear children getting their first tablets and mobile phones at the start of the new school year will be targeted by creepy perverts trying to groom them.

Now they have listed the obscure acronyms and emojis which mums and dads should be on alert for in their children's text and social media messages.

Even apparently harmless symbols like a bowl of noodles, a peach or a hammer could be a sign someone is trying to get nude pictures of their child.

Other red flags are acronyms like GNOC and TDTM, which mean 'Get naked on camera', and 'Talk dirty to me', while 143 means 'I love you', and 9 is 'Parent in the room.'

The secret code of online child abuse predators has been revealed as police warn parents of the dangers signs they need to look out for (stock image pictured)

RED FLAG ABUSE ACRONYMS Catch a case Willingness to being arrested and charged for something, often used in relation to sexual desire for someone who is much younger/under age. CD9 or Code 9 Parents are around. DNI Do not interact, especially as a warning of explicit/sexual content for under 18s. DM;HS Doesn't matter; had sex. DPW D*** pictures welcome. Down in the DM Using private messages (DM=Direct Message) on social media to ask for nude photos and/or to filter through people to find a sexual encounter. GNRN Get Naked Right Now. GNOC Get Naked On Camera. LMIRL Let's meet in real life. LMP Like my pic. NIFOC Naked in front of computer. NP4NP Naked Pic For Naked Pic. P911 Parent Alert. PIR Parent in room. POS Parent Over Shoulder. POV Point of view, and often indicates that a video is supposed to be filmed as if you're seeing through someone else's eyes. Rule 34 Any topic can be made into pornographic content. Snacc/Snack A person you find attractive. Sneaky Link Seeing someone for sex but you want to keep the relationship quiet. Smash To have casual sex. TDTM Talk dirty to me. 1174 Nude club. 143 I love you. 9 Parent watching. Advertisement

'Some terms, slang or emojis may seem to be innocent symbols, however, they may signal a highly-sexualised conversation,' warned Australian Federal Police Commander Hilda Sirec on Thursday.

Experts warn that adults will often pose as other children to get the trust of kids before suggesting they send nude pictures, often supposedly as part of a 'swap'.

As well as being used for sexual gratification, the nude selfies can often be exchanged between other abusers and later re-appear on public online sites.

In some cases, predators may even try to track down the children featured in real life.

Police say the use of emojis and the internet shorthand is designed to create a secret language to exclude parents and adults.

They have now drawn up a glossary to decode the secret messages after studying texts used by predators in child abuse investigations from across the country.

Police have now drawn up a glossary to decode the secret messages (pictured) after studying texts used by predators in child abuse investigations from across the country

'Predators have schooled themselves in the language of emojis, emoticons and acronyms in order to groom their victims,' Commander Sirec said.

'When these emojis or acronyms are sent from predators, they are an extremely dangerous grooming weapon that can lead to children being coerced into self-producing child abuse material or to set up a face-to-face meeting.

'"NP4NP" which can mean 'nude pic for nude pic' or a bowl of noodles emoji, which can represent "nude pictures".

'Understanding how to interpret the messages your children are sending or receiving could provide a critical clue that a child is at risk of being groomed or engaging in risky behaviour that could put them in harm's way.'

Australian Federal Police Commander Hilda Sirec (pictured) warned parents that predators have taught themselves how kids communicate online in order to groom their victims

She added: 'We really need parents to explain to their children that people online are not always who they claim to be.

'We know that many young children received new devices for Christmas and will also be spending time a lot of time studying online when the school year starts.

'The start of the school year provides the perfect opportunity for parents to talk with their children about safe ways to use their devices.

'The AFP is urging all parents and carers to familiarise themselves with this glossary.'
Angry job seekers have been protesting in various parts of India against "massive irregularities" in the railway recruitment exam. The protest turned violent last week, and a stationary train and other railway properties were torched in Bihar. The Opposition raised the issue in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, asking the government to come clean on the matter. Here's why a railway exam has snowballed into such a big controversy:

Why is a railway job such a big deal?

With a workforce of 1.2 million, the railways is the largest employer in India. A railway job is highly coveted because it offers decent pay, job security and many perks. Since 2018, the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) of various railway zones have notified 2,83,747 vacancies and hired more than 1.32 lakh people. At present, the railways is in the process of filling 35,281 vacancies under the Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC). Among these vacancies are junior clerk, train assistant, guard, timekeeper and station master.

Around 11,000 of these vacancies require candidates that have passed class 12 while the rest need graduates. A staggering 1.3 crore people applied for these 35,281 jobs. The railways decided to conduct an entrance test, called the computer-based test (CBT) for all candidates.

What's the issue with the exam?

The railways conducted the first round of the entrance test (CBT-1) between April and July last year and declared the results on January 14, 2022. Job aspirants are upset that the test results of different job categories showed the names of the same candidates, effectively excluding many others. They fear that those with higher qualifications will get a shot at jobs meant for those with lower qualifications.

What does the railways say?

According to the railways, the real test will be in the next round of the exam, called CBT-2, which is scheduled for mid-February. CBT-2 will be as per "graded difficulty" whereby every level will have a separate exam fit for that levels qualification. For instance, in Level 2, which has posts like Junior Timekeeper, Accounts Clerk, etc, the exam will be of a difficulty level meant for class 12 pass candidates. And for Level 5, which has posts like Senior Clerk, Goods Guard etc, the exam will be of a difficulty level meant for graduate aspirants.

What's the problem then?

To ensure more candidates, the railways shortlisted for CBT-2 as many as 20 candidates for each available vacancy. This ratio was 1:15 in 2016 and 1:10 before that. The high ratio meant that for 35,281 vacancies, over 7 lakh applications were shortlisted for CBT-2.

How did that happen?

According to the railways, a class 12 pass candidate, based on their choice and test score, may have been shortlisted for both Level 2 and 3 vacancies. Similarly, a graduate may have been shortlisted for all the vacancies at all levels. Thats how the number of shortlisted candidates for CBT-2 stands at 7,05,446. And the shortlisting is based on applications. This means if person A has applied for Level 2 and Level 5, then, based on the persons scores, he or she will be counted in both categories when the shortlist is made with 20 times the number of posts. This was done, the railways says, because nothing would have legally stopped a graduate from sitting for an exam meant for a class 12 pass. The actual number of candidates shortlisted for the second round is only 3.84 lakh.

Is the situation hopeless for other candidates?

Not really, according to the railways. While someone shortlisted for CBT-2 at multiple levels may be able to take the tests, that will not translate into that person actually getting multiple jobs.

A committee formed to look into the candidates' complaints has received over one lakh grievances. Its report may be disclosed shortly.

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JUNEAU  It was a sedate meeting Tuesday evening as the Dodge County Board got a preview of appeals for American Rescue Plan Act funds. Area agencies, county departments and municipalities submitted nearly $72 million in requests, more than four times the countys $17.6 million share of COVID 19 relief funds.

A handful of representatives attended to answer questions about their proposals, although it was made clear from the start that presentations other than those on paper were not desired.

We are going to go through the municipal funding requests first, followed by organizations and county departments, said board chairman Russ Kottke. I will read them. If you have questions you can ask them or we can move on. These will all be referred to the ARPA Committee.

Supervisor Lisa Derr added that All of these projects are going to get screened again.

The ARPA Committee, formed for the purpose of reviewing proposals, will consist of Larry Bischoff, Mary Bobholz, Kevin Burnett, Jeff Caine, Lisa Derr, Dave Frohling, Dave Guckenberger, Jenifer Hedrick, Cathy Houchin, Andrew Johnson, Russ Kottke, Ben Priesgen, Dennis Schmidt, Kira Sheahan-Malloy and Dan Siegmann.

A ranking system will be used. Proposals will be sent to the Finance Committee and then to the full County Board. It is hoped that more members will be present as 10 of 33 were missing Tuesday night. They included Ed Benter, Jeff Berres, Rich Greshay, Dan Hilbert, Haley Kenevan, Donna Maly, Tom Nickel, Ben Priesgen, Travis Schultz and Kira Sheahan-Malloy.

Agency requests include Adoration Abode of Watertown (a homeless shelter for men), $250,000; Beaver Dam Lake Improvement Association, $832,000 for shoreland protection and pollution reduction; Clyman, Lowell and Resseville Group, $432,000 for fire and EMS service; Dodge County Fair Association, $651,000 for new structures; Dodge County Housing Authority, $350,000 for workforce housing initiative in Juneau and Reeseville; Fox Lake Inland Protection and Rehabilitation District, $50,000 for incentives to prevent erosion; Friends of Lomira Parks for $50,000, playground equipment for Sterr Park; PAVE abuse shelter, $800,000 for new building in Beaver Dam.

A Randolph resident requested an unlisted amount to cover citizen property liens and loans.

Supervisor Dave Guckenberger submitted a $4 million request to address countywide Emergency Medical Service concerns. That would perhaps involve a new service added to the existing volunteer and contracted services. EMS worker numbers have been falling and emergency calls have been rising. Guckenberger proposes pursuing options in advance of a crisis.

Municipal requests include (cities unless otherwise noted); Beaver Dam, $1.9 million for affordable housing; village of Clyman, $706,000 for infrastructure improvements; Fox Lake, $65,000 and open requests for infrastructure and ambulance; Horicon, $1.3 million for workforce housing; town of Hustisford, $170,000 for bridge replacement; village of Hustisford, $450,000 for watermain replacement; village of Iron Ridge, $384,000 for infrastructure; Juneau, $484,000 and open requests for infrastructure and childcare overtime; town of Lebanon, $35,000 for septic replacement project; village of Lomira, open requests for water and sewer replacements; village of Lowell, $127,000 for emergency equipment and hydrants; Mayville, $1.1 million for infrastructure; village of Randolph, $750,000, for infrastructure; village of Reeseville, $155,000 for water/wastewater; village of Theresa, $5.8 million for infrastructure and village hall improvements; Watertown, $400,000 for child care and affordable housing; Waupun, $1.2 million for infrastructure and day care with an open request for infrastructure.

County requests total $48 million and include things from nurse tuition reimbursement to premium pay for staff. Other items include Highway Department requests totaling $3.6 million; Information Technology, $13 million for broadband expansion; Land Resources and Parks, $16.7 million for park improvements and Gold Star Trail expansion; Maintenance, $12.6 million.

Supervisor Joe Marsik requested $7 million for 28 miles of county highway improvements, given the recent disapproval of $9 million in borrowing for highway spending in 2022. A total of $9 million was approved in 2021 to bring bad roads up to standard, with another round planned for 2022. With that funding denied other options are being considered.

A request for $321,000 was submitted late from the Dodge County Sheriffs office for jail staffing needs. It will be up to the committee to decide whether that request will be considered.

Finance Director Dave Ehlinger added that funds may have wider applications other than COVID fallout, based on lost revenue. Assuming a 2.9 percent loss for 2020, Dodge County as a whole lost an estimated $25 million. Although the allocation of $17.6 million will not change, filing to utilize the lost revenue criterion must be submitted by March 31.

The ARPA Committee has meetings planned in the Dodge County Board Room. The first meeting will be held Feb. 23 at 4:30 p.m. Future meetings will be held March 9 and 23 starting at 5 p.m.
Scotts Bluff County commissioner Charlie Knapper announced his intention to run for re-election on Tuesday. Knapper, whose District III covers the majority of Gering, is seeking his second four-year term in office.

We got a lot of work done in my first term and I would like to continue with that trend, he told the Star-Herald. A lot of the things I campaigned on I got done and I keep learning more and having new opportunities to make change.

Knapper promoted some of his previous accomplishments over the last four years as reasons for constituents to vote for him again. One such project was solving the mismanagement of the county jail. Prior to his first year in office, the county hadnt renegotiated jail contracts with nearby states and counties. Knapper said the jail was hemorrhaging money and the staff was losing morale. Then, he said, the commissioners restructured the leadership structure at the jail and it started doing tremendously.

One of the things that I campaigned on was bringing new ideas to the county board and looking at things from a different angle, Knapper said.

One example of this, he stated, was when Knapper used his I.T. background to discover some 80% of the countys servers were past their effective use date. This made them vulnerable to hackers, and he helped replace them.

Another large focus of Knappers original campaign was to repave Stegall Road in the western part of the county. He said he was proud the commissioners used real money to complete the project, without needing to take out bonds. Im proud to say we have not taken out any new bonds for things on the board, he said.

The county has received $6.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding. Half of it was delivered in June 2021, and the other half will be provided this June. The county has so far allocated around $5 million of the funding to various initiatives.

Knapper said hed like to help determine where the rest goes, saying Id like to see that go towards projects that will provide long-term savings for the taxpayers for years to come.

The existing money will be used in part for detention center upgrades, county road sign upgrades and programs to help prevent repeat offenders from reoffending.

Knapper serves on the board of the Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO). He credits this as the source of some of his ideas on the board, but many are his own  NACO merely fine-tunes the lens ... my work with them has really opened doors for Scotts Bluff County and the Panhandle as a whole. Knapper said.

He also worked with Governor Pete Ricketts to extend Scotts Bluff Countys participation in the County Bridge Match Program. It was scheduled to sunset at the end of 2022 or 2023, but NACO requested it to be extended. Through the program, the county receives extra money to repair bridges. Knapper said hed like to continue to help fix bridges for years to come.

Knapper originally ran with the intent to be a disrupter of Scotts Bluff County operations, according to a press release. He said there are still some departments within the county that need shaking up.

I really hope that voters will look back at my record over the last three years and make a decision for themselves ... I want them to see I took my job seriously and took my time to educate myself on the issues, Knapper said. ...I think my record speaks for itself. If anyone runs against him, he said hed campaign as hard as he did the first time.

The election will take place on Nov. 8; the District I and District V seats are also up for grabs. The former covers the eastern half of the county, and the latter includes the northern half of Scottsbluff. Their current commissioners are Mark Reichert and Mark Harris, respectively.
An American flag and the flag of Oregon on a legislator's desk in the Senate Chamber at the Oregon State Capitol.

Over the nearly two years since the pandemic began, a lack of broadband internet access has hampered many Oregonians from participating fully in a more virtual world.

Lack of high-speed access has meant challenges working remotely, helping children keep up with virtual classes and even connecting with friends and family.

Oregon officials for years have promised to work towards improvement. Proponents say their latest legislative proposal on this issue will allow the state to take advantage of millions in federal funds for the construction of a comprehensive broadband network.

House Bill 4092 is a bipartisan, bicameral bill with broad support from interest groups, including the Oregon Telecommunications Association, Oregon Health and Science University, Oregon Rural Health Association, Oregon Library Association and League of Oregon Cities.

Oregon Legislature: Oregon legislative session begins with a new speaker and another public protest

At the bill's first public hearing Wednesday, Rep. Pam Marsh, D-Southern Jackson County, one of the bill's chief sponsors, said the coronavirus pandemic has shown that broadband access is critical for the emotional, social, economic and physical health of Oregonians.

"Individuals and families who lacked access to broadband over the past almost two years missed out on public appointments, remote work opportunities, online learning, digital grocery deliveries, live-streamed religious services and much more," she said.

Planning for funding

In November, President Joe Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allocated $65 billion for broadband expansion nationwide. Oregon will receive at least $100 million of that, with the potential for more based on need.

An additional $100 million is anticipated from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Marsh called the investments "once-in-a-generation" and said the state needs to be prepared to utilize the money when it arrives.

Story continues

The bill is an omnibus package with five key components:

Updates the membership and authority of the Oregon Broadband Advisory Council and provides oversight and recommendations to implement broadband goals.

Sets a strategic framework for utilizing state and federal broadband investment.

Creates criteria for Oregon to work with providers to collect information and develop statewide maps for determining eligibility for funds and to confirm the allocation.

Establishes the Connecting Oregon Libraries Fund and allocates funds for the purpose of providing matching funds for federal money received by the State Library.

Requires the Public Utilities Commission to study the feasibility of expanding the Oregon Telephone Assistance Program, which lowers the monthly cost of phone or broadband services for low-income individuals.

Efforts to date

Broadband access has been a topic of concern for lawmakers for some time.

The Oregon Broadband Office was established in 2018 to develop broadband investments, deploy strategies to reach underserved areas and advocate for policies that would expand broadband availability.

In the early months of the pandemic, the state allocated funds to expand broadband access and created the Broadband Fund in special session to support those efforts.

Despite those recent actions, significant gaps in broadband access remain.

An analysis by USA Today and the Stateman Journal in July showed that while broadband is available to residents, fewer have actual high-speed access.

According to a Federal Communications Commission study, in about half of Oregon's counties, broadband access is available to at least 86% of residents. Yet also in about half of the state's counties, according to Microsoft, no more than 49% of households have high-speed access, a USA TODAY analysis shows.

Poorer counties tended to have less access.

Want to participate?: Here's what to expect when visiting the Oregon Capitol

Another of the bill's chief sponsors, Rep. Mark Owens, R-Crane, said the need for broadband access in rural communities was becoming more apparent even before the pandemic. Now, Owens said, it's clear broadband is one of the three critical components to ensuring rural communities are viable into the future.

"In order to have any type of sustainable growth in our rural or frontier communities, we have to have good schools, good medical and broadband," he said. "Without broadband, we're not going to have any type of sustained growth."

Broadband is particularly important for augmenting rural economies, he said, allowing communities to become less reliant on agriculture and natural resources.

While the bill does have substantial support, the biggest concern from some is the collection of data for the creation of the broadband access map.

Beth Cooley, assistant vice president of state legislative affairs at CTIA, told lawmakers Wednesday that while the trade association supports the goals of HB 4092, they oppose the bill in its current form.

CTIA is a trade association that represents the wireless communications industry in the United States.

The organization's concern is that the bill's text is not aligned with the drafter's stated intent to keep broadband access data private. Cooley requested an amendment that would specify the maps are only provided upon application of a broadband grant.

"HB 4092 reads as a broad, sweeping data collection mandate on the entire broadband ecosystem, including wireless, outside of the broadband grant process," she said.

USA Today contributed to this report.

Reporter Connor Radnovich covers the Oregon Legislature and state government. Contact him at cradnovich@statesmanjournal.com or 503-399-6864, or follow him on Twitter at @CDRadnovich.

Support local journalism by subscribing to the Statesman Journal.

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Bill would prepare Oregon to receive $200M for broadband expansion
Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz is greeted by a Bahrain military official at Bahrain International Airport during an official visit, Feb. 2. Reuters-Yonhap





Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz landed in Bahrain on Wednesday, the latest high-profile diplomatic trip since the countries normalized ties, according to the Gulf country.







"The defense minister, Lieutenant General Abdullah bin Hassan al-Nuaimi, received Benny Gantz, the minister of defense of the State of Israel, upon his arrival at Bahrain International Airport," the Bahraini Defense Ministry said.







Gantz, who is the first Israeli defense minister to ever officially visit the Gulf country, travelled with several top military and security officials, including navy chief Admiral David Saar Salama.







"The aircraft carrying the delegation is the first IAF (Israeli Air Force) plane to land in Bahrain," the Israeli defense ministry said in a statement.







"Throughout the visit, the minister is expected to conduct meetings with high ranking officials in the Bahraini defense establishment and with the Kingdom's leadership," it added.







The visit comes less than two years after the Gulf country forged diplomatic ties with Israel, becoming the fourth Arab nation to do so following close ally the United Arab Emirates, as well as Egypt and Jordan.







Last year Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid made the first ministerial visit to Bahrain, where he inaugurated an embassy in Manama.







The normalization between Bahrain and Israel was one of a series of U.S.-brokered agreements known as the Abraham Accords.







The deals angered the Palestinians, and broke with decades of Arab League consensus against recognizing Israel until it signs a peace agreement establishing a Palestinian state with a capital in east Jerusalem.







The accords were negotiated by Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's predecessor, Benjamin Netanyahu, who said they would offer Israel new regional allies against Iran and bolster its diplomatic efforts to stop Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.







It was not immediately clear if international talks on Iran's nuclear program would be discussed during Gantz's visit.







Gantz travelled to Morocco late last year, after the North African kingdom agreed to establish full ties with Israel in another U.S.-brokered pact.







During that visit, the countries signed an agreement that is set to make it easier for Morocco to purchase products from Israel's defense industry. (AFP)


Michael Lujan Bevacqua is an author, artist, activist and the curator for The Guam Museum.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Jim Pillen stopped at Grand Islands Trego-Dugan Aviation Wednesday as part of a six-stop campaign tour.

Pillen was joined by Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue and Vice President Sherry Vinton.

Nebraska Farm Bureau endorsed Pillen on Tuesday.

It was an easy announcement for us, McHargue said. Theres a lot of people running in this race, so for us to get involved early is a bit of a risk, but at the end of the day our members have spoken. I think its a great vote.

Speaking to a group of supporters, whom he calls his Pillen Black Shirts, Pillen called the endorsement overwhelming.

Its close to my heart because grassroots is what its about in Nebraska, earning peoples vote and trust one handshake after another, and thats what the Nebraska Farm Bureau is, he said.

Outgoing Gov. Pete Ricketts endorsed Pillen in January.

A swine farmer from Platte County, Pillen has been the owner of both Pillen Family farms since 1993 and DNA Genetics since 2003.

When you eat five pieces of bacon tomorrow we have genetic influence on over two of those five, he said.

Pillen said Nebraska feeds the world in a way that is the envy of other states. Thats why the states next generation is so important, he said.

We need to make sure all of our kids know how important they are, that we keep them here, and we get them all trained, he said. Our future for our communities is to grow because we are the best in the world.

Growth means being competitive, Pillen said.

Gov. Ricketts started Best Business Practices but we all together have to make a difference, he said. We need to do a better job locally holding our school boards and county governments more accountable, because we have to help them understand the difference between spending and investing.

He added, I believe we spend too much. We have to be more frugal with our dollars.

Defending agriculture, specifically from extremist animal liberation groups, is crucial, Pillen said.

We need a government thats going to stand up and say, We feed the world and save the planet, he said.

Nebraska is also a major global exporter, Pillen said.

We need to have the next governor be able to sell our products around the world, he said.

He added, As your governor, Im going to brag and brag and Im going to sell and sell.

Values are important to Pillen, who said, Our values are under attack.

(My wife) Suzanne and I have been raising children for 40 years. We know what it takes to protect our kids adolescent minds from crazy ideologies and sex education standards that somebodys trying to impose, he said.

In June, Gov. Ricketts spoke against new sex education standards being proposed by the Nebraska Department of Education, which many Nebraska communities opposed.

The proposed changes since have been halted.

Pillen said he is about faith, family and pro-life and identified himself as a First Amendment guy, property rights, gun rights and law and order.

I dont have a political bone in my body. It doesnt matter to me where the wind blows. I think its important that the next governor has the courage to stand up and help grow Nebraska and defend Nebraska, and work hard so its a great place for future generations, he said.

Asked if there is any tension with fellow candidate Charles Herbster, who was endorsed by former President Donald J. Trump in October, Pillen said, Im not into drama.

Jim Pillen is focused on Jim Pillen, and Jim Pillen is focused on Nebraska, he said. From day one our strategy has been to be out shaking hands, meeting Nebraskans eyeball-to-eyeball. Im 100% focused on what I can do. Im not into the stuff people want to talk about.
Parents across Iowa are demanding greater accountability from public schools. The COVID-19 pandemic, along with current social and political movements, has raised significant concerns from parents about what is happening in K-12 classrooms across the state.

Parents want greater visibility into what their children are learning and what types of books and other resources are utilized in school. Whether it is radical 1619 Project curriculum or controversial books that use vulgar words and portray explicit and pornographic content, curriculum concerns are driving this demand for more transparency and accountability. Requiring public schools to be fully transparent about classroom curriculum, available books and other resources within schools is a commonsense and much-needed reform.

Gov. Kim Reynolds agrees. In her Condition of the State address, Reynolds made transparency and accountability a priority. Recently, several parents brought to light that schools are buying and teaching with books that contain vulgar and sexually explicit material involving minors. These books are so explicit theyd be X-rated if they were movies. The content is so bad that after a parent read them at a school board meeting, the district took the live stream down from its website because the passages were too inappropriateand yet many of these books remain in school libraries today, Reynolds stated.

Compounding this response is the growing frustration of parents across Iowa who feel that their concerns are being ignored by school leaders. And sadly, in some cases, school administrators are ignoring the problem or just not listening. Some even believe that its a schools responsibility to not just teach kids to learn but to control what they learnto push their worldview, said Reynolds.

This is another reason why the governor is continuing to make school choice a legislative priority this session. But for some families, the school district doesnt fit their values or meet the needs of their child, Reynolds noted in discussing the need for greater parental choice in education.

To bring greater transparency and accountability to the resources and materials being used in classrooms and libraries, Reynolds has proposed a series of measures that will provide parents with greater visibility and opportunity to know what their child is being taught or what they might find in the school library.

Under the governors proposed reform:

 Public schools will be required to publish their class materials on school and/or district websites where parents and families can review it.

 Information shall include course syllabuses or written summaries, state academic standards, and titles of or links to textbooks used for classes.

 Public schools will be required to publish a comprehensive list of books available in their libraries and provide information about the process for filing a concern about a book. If the concern is not addressed by the school district within 30 days, it can be appealed directly to the State Board of Education.

To enforce these requirements, the proposal indicates that state funding will be withheld from schools that do not comply.

Several states have either passed or are considering similar legislation that would provide greater academic transparency and accountability. It is unfortunate that radical ideologies, cultural Marxism, and other counterculture ideas and behaviors are being promoted and taught in public schools. The cultural wars have moved into the classroom.

We live in a free country with free expression. But theres a difference between shouting vulgarities from a street corner and assigning them as required classroom reading. Theres a difference between late-night cable TV and the school library, noted Governor Reynolds.

Education should not be about pushing a certain ideology or social identity. Schools are tasked with providing an education that helps prepare children to be ready for responsible citizenship.

Reynolds proposal to provide greater transparency and accountability within public education will help restore the right of parents to be informed and involved in the education of their children. More sunlight will only help to improve the overall quality of education in Iowa.

John Hendrickson is policy director of Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation and Heather Curry is director of strategic engagement at the Goldwater Institute.
3M and Discovery Education Open Submissions to the 2022 Young Scientist Challenge

Northampton, MA --News Direct-- Discovery Education

ST. PAUL, Minn. and SILVER SPRING, Md., February 2, 2022 /3BL Media/ - 3M (@3M) and Discovery Education (@DiscoveryEd) are excited to announce that the 2022 3M Young Scientist Challenge (#YoungScientist) is now open to entries. As the nations premier middle school science competition, the annual 3M Young Scientist Challenge invites students in grades 5-8 to compete for an exclusive mentorship with a 3M scientist, a $25,000 grand prize, and the chance to earn the title of Americas Top Young Scientist. Competition entries are accepted at YoungScientistLab.com until the April 26, 2022 deadline.

Each year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge recognizes the grand prize winner, 10 finalists, the Improving Lives Award winner, and up to 50 state merit winners, as well as Washington D.C., nationwide who have demonstrated a passion for solving everyday problems to improve the world around them.

To enter, students in grades 5-8 will share an original idea that helps solve an everyday problem in their community. They are invited to submit their solution in the form of a one-to-two-minute video explaining the science behind it. A diverse group of judges will evaluate entries based on creativity, scientific knowledge, and effective communication skills. Videos will not be judged on production skills and may be recorded on cell phones or basic digital cameras.

Previous challenge finalists have collaborated with 3M scientists to create solutions to a wide variety of real-world problems, including COVID-19, water conservation, food waste, alternative energy sources, cancer treatments, energy consumption, and transportation efficiency. The 2021 winner  14-year-old Sarah Park from Jacksonville, Fla.  created Spark Care+, an innovation that personalizes music therapy treatment for mental health improvement using artificial intelligence (AI), skin response (GSR) and photoplethysmography (PPG).

Story continues

In June 2022, 10 finalists will be chosen to participate in an exclusive summer mentorship program where they will work closely with and learn from a 3M scientist. Each finalist receives the opportunity to compete in the final event at the 3M Innovation Center in Minneapolis, MN  an interactive competition comprised of hands-on challenges, presentations, live judging, and more. At the final event, to be held on October 17-18, the grand prize winner and the Improving Lives Award winner will be announced.

Every day, 3M captures the power of our people, our ideas and 3M science to reimagine whats possible and for the past 15 years, in partnership with Discovery Education, weve been inspiring students to apply their passion for STEM to making the world a better place, said Karina Chavez, Senior Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer at 3M. The 3M Young Scientist Challenge encourages students to make the most of their creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills to develop an idea that can transform the world. We eagerly await this years entries!

In its 15th year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge inspires and challenges middle school students to apply the power of STEM to discovering real-world solutions. Americas Top Young Scientists have gone on to give TED Talks, file patents, found nonprofits, make the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange, and exhibit at the White House Science Fair. A 2013 finalist recently held a 3M summer internship in the Corporate Materials Lab division, a testament to the ongoing learning opportunities for students who participate. These young innovators have also been named Time Magazine's first Kid of the Year, featured in The New York Times Magazine, Forbes, Business Insider, and on national television programs such as Good Morning America, CNN's Cuomo Prime Time, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and more. Learn more and meet all past finalists at YoungScientistLab.com.

Every year, the students participating in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge help make the world a better place," said Lori McFarling, President of Social Impact at Discovery Education. "The 3M Young Scientist Challenge connects today's students with scientist mentors so that their STEM dreams can come to life and better their community. We are incredibly excited to see the powerful ideas this years participants bring to life.

The award-winning 3M Young Scientist Challenge supplements the 3M and Discovery Education program  Young Scientist Lab  which provides no-cost dynamic digital resources for students, teachers, and families to explore, transform, and innovate the world around them. All the resources are also available through the Young Scientist Lab Channel and in the Social Impact Partnerships channel on Discovery Educations recently enhanced K-12 learning platform.

For more information about Discovery Educations digital resources and professional learning services, visit www.discoveryeducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through Twitter and LinkedIn.

###

About 3MAt 3M, we apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily as our employees connect with customers all around the world. Learn more about 3M's creative solutions to global challenges at www.3M.com or on Twitter @3M or @3MNews.

About Discovery EducationDiscovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital platform supports learning wherever it takes place. Through its award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, and innovative classroom tools, Discovery Education helps educators deliver equitable learning experiences engaging all students and supporting higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 140 countries and territories. Inspired by the global media company Discovery, Inc., Discovery Education partners with districts, states, and trusted organizations to empower teachers with leading edtech solutions that support the success of all learners. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com.

ContactsRobert Brittain | 3M | rbrittain@mmm.comGrace Maliska | Discovery Education | gmaliska@discoveryed.com

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Discovery Education on 3blmedia.com

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/search-for-americas-top-young-scientist-of-2022-begins-299825002
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Thunderstorms this morning, then cloudy with rain likely during the afternoon. High 73F. SSW winds shifting to NW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall may reach one inch..

Tonight

Mainly clear skies. Low 47F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Add one more name to the already-crowded field seeking the Republican nomination in Virginias 7th Congressional District.

Spotsylvania County Supervisor David Ross said on Monday that he is going to run for the nomination. He waited to announce his intentions until the new district boundaries were set.

Ross, a 56-year-old Iowa native who has lived in the county since 2007, considered running in 2020, when Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Henrico, beat challenger Nick Freitas.

The retired U.S. Marine aviator, who has served as the Courtland District supervisor since 2012, said he relied on his Christian faith in 2020, praying over the decision.

He did the same thing this year.

This time, I feel ready to do it, said Ross, a program manager in the software development information technology sector and married father of four boys and two girls.

Ross and the other potential GOP candidates hope to unseat Spanberger, a Henrico County resident who said she will seek a third term even though she no longer lives in the redrawn district.

So far only two RepublicansSen. Bryce Reeves, R-Spotsylvnia, and Spotsylvania resident Derrick Andersonwho have announced their intentions to run and have filed campaign reports for the fundraising period that ended Dec. 31, according to the Virginia Public Access Project.

Reeves, who raised more than $250,000 and ended the year with about $225,000 in his coffers, represents the 17th District in the Virginia Senate, which includes Fredericksburg and parts of Spotsylvania, Orange, Louisa, Culpeper and Albemarle counties. Anderson reported raising more than $289,000 for the campaign and has about $212,000 available.

Del. John McGuire, R-Goochland, is the only other Republican to file, raising a reported $176,414. He hasnt said whether he will run in the new district, which does not include Goochland.

Because they filed in the old 7th Congressional District, Reeves and Anderson got a jump on the competition. Other Republican contenders declared their candidacies after the filing period because of the late change to the district boundaries.

The crowded field includes Stafford County resident Gary Adkins, a retired U.S. Air Force officer; Prince William County residents Yesli Vega, who serves on the county Board of Supervisors, and Gina Ciarcia, a homeschool educator.

Ross describes himself as a social and fiscal conservative, adding that he has a 10-year track record on the Board of Supervisors.

Ross addressed abortion as one of his top priorities. He believes life starts at conception and added that he would like to see Roe V. Wade reversed.

Ross said he has taken a no more taxes pledge and said he will not raise taxes on residents he believes already pay too much.

Ross criticized withdrawing U.S. troops from Afghanistan withdrawal. He said he supports vaccinations but said it should be a choice.

If he were to win the seat in Congress, Ross said he would leave his job and the Board of Supervisors because being a congressman is a full-time job, something he feels is more of a duty.
AMC has announced the initial cast for its new The Walking Dead spinoff, Tales Of The Walking Dead, which stars Terry Crews, Parker Posey, Anthony Edwards, Poppy Liu and Jillian Bell.

'Anthony, Jillian, Terry, Parker, and Poppy are the first wave of singular talents who will further expand the Walking Dead Universe into harrowing, hilarious, heartfelt, and horrifying new realms,' the show's chief content officer Scott M. Gimple said in a statement Wednesday, Deadline reported.

He continued: 'And we couldnt be happier to welcome them to the family, along with these terrific directors. More announcements, more wonderful folks to come.'

The latest: AMC has announced the initial cast for its new The Walking Dead spinoff, Tales Of The Walking Dead, which stars Terry Crews, 53, and Parker Posey, 53, as well as Anthony Edwards, 59, Poppy Liu, 30, and Jillian Bell, 37

Gimple is an executive producer on the series, along with showrunner Channing Powell.

Powell said in a statement, 'Weve worked hard to create unique, interesting and unexpected characters for both old and new TWD fans, and Im thrilled that these are the actors who will bring them to life. I cant wait for you to see the depth, drama, terror and, yes, humor they bring to the screen.'

Producer Michael Satrazemis will direct three episodes of the series, while Haifaa al-Mansour, Deborah Kampmeier and Tara Nicole Weyr will each direct one episode, Deadline reported.

The hourlong show, which will debut on AMC and AMC+ this summer, will feature both new and existing characters in the universe of the hit franchise.

Jillian Bell was seen at the Napa Valley Film Festival in November of 2019 in Yountville, California

Showrunner Channing Powell said in a statement, 'Weve worked hard to create unique, interesting and unexpected characters for both old and new TWD fans, and Im thrilled that these are the actors who will bring them to life'

The forthcoming show is the fourth spinoff in the show's universe

The show is the fourth spinoff in the show's universe which also includes Fear the Walking Dead; a limited show titled Walking Dead: World Beyond; and an upcoming drama from TWD showrunner Angela Kang featuring Norman Reedus and Melissa McBride, which is set to debut in 2023.

The flagship show is set to finish airing this year in its 11th season. The show first premiered on Halloween of 2010.
Some journalists consider their job a calling, not just an occupation. Peter van Onselen isnt one of them, despite being one of the nations most prolific and high-profile political reporters.

Im not passionate about journalism, Im passionate about politics, the Channel Ten political editor and columnist at The Australian has told associates. It reflects the fact the long-time university professor still considers himself an academic at heart.

Which is just as well, given van Onselen has repeatedly broken one of journalisms golden, if unwritten, rules over recent weeks: dont let yourself become the story.

Journalist Peter van Onselen confronts Prime Minister Scott Morrison with unflattering text messages at the National Press Club Credit:Sydney Morning Herald

First there was last weeks viral stoush on The Project in which co-host Carrie Bickmore and Guardian Australia journalist Amy Remeikis excoriated him for writing a column calling outgoing Australian of the Year Grace Tame ungracious, rude and childish for letting her displeasure show during a meeting with Prime Minister Scott Morrison at The Lodge.
Here are the snow totals for the Colorado Springs area, according to Gazette news partner KKTV and the National Weather Service in Pueblo, as 
Geopacific Resources Ltd (ASX:GPR) is continuing a review of schedule and cost estimations, including the implications of a material increase in capital costs for its Woodlark Gold Project in Papua New Guinea

It is important that as the review progresses and conclusions are reached, changes are implemented progressively to preserve the companys financial and asset position.

At the same time, Geopacific remains focused on realising the full potential of the project and will continue a drilling program aimed at pit extension and step-out targets across Woodlark Island.

Untested growth potential

Geopacific chairman Andrew Bantock said: Having recently been appointed as chairman, I am focused on ensuring the company thoroughly works through its strategic options.

The suspension of these activities limits the companys cash spend as we reassess how to develop the Woodlark Gold Project in the most efficient manner possible.

However, we remain focused on the underlying value of the Woodlark Gold Project which has over 1 million ounces of gold in reserves, significant untested mineral resources growth potential and has seen over $100 million invested over the past 18 months in project design and development.

Review of strategic options

In view of ongoing delays in the project schedule and the consequent implications for capital cost escalation, a range of steps have been taken which include suspending all detailed engineering and civil works pending a review of the companys strategic options.

The suspension of these activities preserves cash reserves whilst the company undertakes its review which will require redundancies across the organisation.

Trading in Geopacific shares remains in suspension until completion and announcement of the outcome of the review and assessment of strategic options for the company.

Community engagement continues

Geopacific remains committed to engagement with the local communities on Woodlark Island and activities associated with the community relocation program will continue.

The company will also continue to support other community programs on the island, including education facilities and health care services.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

COUTTS, Alta.  Protesters using their trucks and cars to clog up the main United States border crossing in southern Alberta agreed Wednesday to make some room to allow traffic through.

Mounties were taking a cautious wait-and-see approach to the partial pull back on the fifth day of the blockade in Coutts.

Chad Williamson, a lawyer representing the protesters, said they were opening one lane of Highway 4 in each direction. Demonstrators followed through in the early afternoon, vehicle tires grinding on the hard-packed snow as they departed.

Anti-COVID-19 vaccine mandate demonstrators gather as a truck convoy blocks the highway at the busy U.S. border crossing in Coutts, Alta., Monday, Jan. 31, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

The truckers finally feel like their message has been heard, Williamson said in an interview.

That doesnt mean the protest is over, but it signals what we hope to be ongoing cordial efforts to address the concerns of the people who have been involved in the movement down here in Coutts.

Late Wednesday, RCMP said travel was still impeded but some progress has been made reopening Highway 4 from Milk River to the border, noting that Mounties are escorting vehicles.

We continue to work with the blockade participants to re-establish safe passage, the RCMP said on Twitter.

Due to ongoing protest activity and congestion that could endanger the safety of the officers and the public, these escorts will continue until further notice. Travellers should still continue to avoid the area due to anticipated long delays.

Earlier in the day, RCMP Cpl. Curtis Peters said one lane of access was available in the north and southbound lanes of the highway, but there were indications that it may be temporary.

We are just continuing to monitor and engage in dialogue with the protest group, or the reported organizers or leaders of it, in an effort to continue moving toward a complete reopening of the highway.

Demonstrators began parking their trucks and other vehicles near the crossing Saturday in solidarity with similar events in Ottawa and countrywide to protest COVID-19 vaccine mandates and broader public health measures.

The impasse stranded travellers and cross-border truckers for days, compromised millions of dollars in trade and impeded access to basic goods and medical services for area residents.

On Tuesday, some demonstrators left the blockade after Mounties announced that negotiations to end the standoff had failed and they were prepared to make arrests and tow vehicles.

But that move didnt sit well with some protesters, who breached a police barrier to join the blockade. Tractors with Canadian flags ripping in the wind weaved by RCMP vehicles and into ditches. Two vehicles crashed head-on, resulting in an assault, but police reported no significant injuries.

Later Tuesday, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said he had been briefed that Mounties were being swarmed and assaulted and there had been an attempt to ram a police cruiser.

RCMP have not confirmed Kenneys statement. The premiers office declined to say where or how it received the information.

On Wednesday, just north of Coutts, there were 20 police cruisers, accompanied by uniformed officers, lined up fender to fender across both lanes and the median, facing a growing lineup of protesters still seeking to join the main blockade.

Jolene, who declined to give her last name, was in the lineup, sitting in her vehicle with her young daughter.

Were fighting for Canadas freedoms, she said.

A truck convoy set up to protest COVID-19 restrictions -- including a vaccine mandate for drivers -- continues to block the highway at Alberta's main border crossing into the United States near Coutts, Alta., on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

I want my children to have a future. Theres getting to be so many rules  and all of a sudden you dont have choices as a Canadian anymore. That is scary to me.

By late afternoon dozens more vehicles, both personal and trucks, had joined the lineup. Many honked horns and flew Canadian flags with signs protesting COVID-19 restrictions.

Coutts Mayor Jim Willett has called for the protest to end. He said it has cut off village residents from medical services.

RCMP have said some protesters have also gone to Willetts home to take photos and wave through the windows.

If thats the agreement (to open access) thats been reached then, yes, Im glad, said Willett in an interview.

Ive said all along if they want to protest, slow traffic down, go for it (but) dont stop it completely. Dont hassle people that want to travel.

The Retail Council of Canada, which represents some of Canadas largest grocery chains, expressed relief that the bottleneck could be easing. Spokesman John Graham said retailers are concerned that a continued shutdown would lead to gaps on grocery store shelves.

Alberta retailers are pleased that the Coutts border crossing is partially reopening, following a significant five-day interruption that is likely to cause, for some stores, short-term shortages of U.S.-sourced fruits and vegetables, he wrote in an email.

The Canadian Meat Council also said it was encouraged.

The organization, representing the countrys large packing and processing plants, said Coutts is one of three border crossings that provide inspection services for Canadian meat products heading to the U.S.

Council spokeswoman Marie-France Mackinnon said the group was aware of 150 truckloads of meat products that had been waiting to cross the border as of early Wednesday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 2, 2022.

 With files from Fakiha Baig in Edmonton and Amanda Stephenson in Calgary
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

OTTAWA  The head of the Ottawa police says all options are on the table, including calling in the military, to end the ongoing anti-vaccine mandate protest that some city councillors are calling an occupation of the capital.

Chief Peter Sloly warned Wednesday that there may not be a policing solution to the demonstration.

He said he knows people in Ottawa want to see more enforcement as protesters continued to cause gridlock and put a significant burden on residents and businesses, many of which have closed in the downtown core.

Trucks are blocked by police barricades as a rally against COVID-19 restrictions, which began as a cross-country convoy protesting a federal vaccine mandate for cross-border truckers continues in Ottawa on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022. Ottawa police have made two arrests following demonstration-related investigations, as the anti-vaccine mandate protest continues to keep the capital at a standstill. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Patrick Doyle

Sloly said ending the protest, which rolled into the city as a convoy last Friday, could come through negotiations or it could come through police enforcement.

Or the military could be called in, he said, noting thats something that happened during the Oka standoff with Indigenous protesters in Quebec in 1990 and the October Crisis, which was fuelled by militant Quebec separatists in 1970.

All such options come with significant risks, Sloly said at a public briefing for city councillors.

Police estimated the protest involved 8,000 to 15,000 people on Saturday but has since dwindled to several hundred.

What remains is a highly determined and highly volatile group of unlawful individuals, acting deputy Chief Trish Ferguson said Wednesday.

More people are expected to arrive in Ottawa over the weekend, with the local hotel association saying people rebooked rooms. Police intelligence hasnt revealed how many are expected to descend on Parliament Hill again.

A significant element from the United States has been involved in funding and organizing the demonstration, Sloly said, adding the longer the demonstration goes on, the greater the risk to public safety.

Ottawa police are watching other demonstrations across the country.

In southern Alberta, initial efforts to remove an illegal blockade at the Coutts border crossing led to public safety risks and little progress, Sloly said. But on Wednesday the protesters agreed to make some room to allow traffic through.

Ultimately, he said, it may be up to politicians or others to finally stop these demonstrations.

Coun. Diane Deans, chair of the police services board, said she expects police to step up enforcement of city bylaws as officers are redeployed from the area around Parliament Hill to other communities in the city. Thats something police said began Tuesday night.

The message Ive been getting loud and clear from the public is they sense this sort of lawlessness that has been allowed to happen, Deans said in an interview.

We need to restore law and order in these communities and these people need to be subject to our laws and bylaws while theyre in our city.

Police said they had charged three men related to the protest and there were 25 active investigations.

A 48-year-old man from Quebec was charged with uttering threats over social media and counselling to commit an indictable offence. The man was not named.

Andre Lacasse, 37, was charged Sunday with carrying a weapon to a public meeting. Police allege he carried a knife and a baton. Deputy police Chief Steve Bell had earlier mentioned a long gun, but police say he was referring to a different investigation and could not provide any more details at this time.

Matthew Dorken, 29, was charged Tuesday with mischief under $5,000.

We want to be very clear, both for the current demonstrations and any planned demonstrations: Illegal activity will not be tolerated, police said in a release.

Late Wednesday, police asked the public for tips to help their investigation into the desecration of the National War Memorial on Saturday.

Investigators asked people to review photos and a video of a suspect provided to police by The Sun.

Ottawa residents have voiced frustration with the incessant blare of truck horns, traffic gridlock and harassment by some protesters. An online petition urging police to end the demonstration was posted on Change.org on Tuesday and garnered more than 10,000 signatures on the first day.

Coun. Catherine McKenney, who represents downtown, said the federal government should send in the RCMP to help get a handle on the demonstration.

The residents of downtown have been abandoned during a national crisis and occupation of our city, McKenney said. People are terrified and there is no presence of the police.

Ottawa police said they requested RCMP intelligence officers to assist with negotiations and other elements of the protest, Deans said.

Deans also called on Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to get in touch with the crowdfunding site GoFundMe and demand that protesters be barred from millions of dollars raised by organizers. GoFundMe has confirmed $1 million has been released to organizers so far.

Theyre funding these mercenaries and that funding stream needs to get cut off, Deans said.

The GoFundMe website Wednesday shows the Freedom Convoy 2022 fundraiser has reached $10,097,500 in donations but has been currently paused and under review to ensure it complies with our terms of service and applicable laws and regulations.

The websites terms of service prohibit violating laws and regulations.

It also says funds cant be used in support of hate, violence, harassment, bullying, discrimination, terrorism, or intolerance of any kind relating to race, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, serious disabilities or diseases.

The terms also state donations cant be used for the legal defence of such activity.

Tamara Lich, part of the convoys fundraising team, was not immediately available for comment.

Late Wednesday, GoFundMe issued a statement about its decision to put a hold on the funds after earlier saying the organizer met its requirements.

Our monitoring includes maintaining close communication with the organizer as well as collaborating with local law enforcement. This process takes time and may slow down the withdrawal process, reads the statement.

We also requested more information from the organizer regarding the use of funds to ensure the fundraiser is still compliant with our terms of service. When we do not receive required information, we may put a pause on donations as we did in this case.

In a statement Wednesday, one of the Ottawa convoy leaders said responsibility for the citys current hardships rests on politicians who prefer to vilify and call us names instead of engaging with them.

The fastest way to get us out of the nations capital is to call your elected representatives and end all (COVID-19) mandates, wrote Chris Barber.

Barber said interactions with police have been mostly positive, especially with front-line officers.

Late Wednesday, Watson lashed out at a group of Conservatives MPs and a senator from Saskatchewan who had their picture taken in front of one of the protest trucks.

The group, including MPs Warren Steinley, Kevin Waugh, Andrew Scheer, Fraser Tolmie, Rosemarie Falk and Sen. Denise Batters are seen grinning in front of the truck, some giving the thumbs-up.

A few of our SK Caucus members went to show our appreciation for the hardworking, patriotic truckers who have kept our supply chains healthy & grocery shelves stocked for the past two years, Waugh said on Twitter. Its great to see Canadians championing freedom on Parliament Hill.

Watson called on them to apologize.

This is an absolute disgrace that you would come out & praise this illegal action that has caused stress and hardship to residents who have been putting up with horns blasting throughout the night and residents harassed for wearing a mask & businesses forced to close, he said on Twitter.

Erica Ifill, founder of equity and inclusion consultancy firm Not In My Colour, said it appears police have no control over this at all, and are using less proactive and aggressive measures than those used at other demonstrations held by people of colour.

Dont we pay them to figure it out? I mean, isnt that what theyre there for? she said. What it looks like is that they are more concerned with inciting violence of white men than they are about the bodies of Black and Indigenous people.

Police estimate they have already spent more than $3 million to manage the protest and respond to emergencies. In comparison, the Canada 150 celebrations on Parliament Hill in 2017 cost Ottawa police about $1.5 million.

The city has begun delivering essentials to people downtown who are afraid or unable to leave their homes, Watson said.

Watson said he has spoken with federal and provincial officials about getting financial relief for businesses that have been unable to open during the ongoing demonstrations.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 2, 2022.

Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version reported that police alleged the person charged with carrying a weapon to a public meeting had planned to attend the rally downtown with a long gun, but was intercepted before that could happen. In fact, police allege the person charged carried a knife and a baton. Ottawa police said Thursday that Steve Bell, the deputy police chief, had been talking Wednesday about a different investigation and would not comment further.
It is 97 days until May 10 primary election.

More than 40% of Hall County voters have a different voting site for 2022 because of statewide redistricting that took place in 2021, said Hall County Election Commissioner Tracy Overstreet at a press conference held Wednesday at Hall County Administration Building.

This change will affect more than 13,000 Hall County voters and it will be in place for the next 10 years, Overstreet said. Voters have time now to get prepared and to be confident where theyre headed on Election Day.

She added, Now is the time to find your polling site.

The new district boundaries can be found at Nebraska Voter Check  www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov/voterview.

Voters can find their polling location by their name or residential address. It is available in English and Spanish.

The polling site changes are a result of U.S. Census numbers for Hall County and state redistricting, Overstreet said.

Grand Island now has three legislative districts.

Hall County had three districts before, but they did not divide the city.

Legislative lines are hard boundaries when it comes to voting, Overstreet said.

Precinct boundaries for each polling place cannot cross a legislative boundary.

Some Grand Island voters now will vote in Alda, for example, as voters south of Shimmer Drive are now in Precinct 23.

This will be the first time I can think of in at least 30 years that well be sending ballots with the Grand Island mayors race, Grand Island school board, to Alda, Overstreet said.

New polling sites also have been added because of the substantial growth in Grand Island. These include Resurrection Catholic, Abundant Life Church and Southern Public Power office.

Some polling places were moved to benefit voters with disabilities and for greater accessibility and curbside voting.

These include First Faith Methodist, St. Pauls Lutheran and Resurrection Catholic.

Other changes:

- Seedling Mile Elementary is no longer a polling site due to school security and school traffic issues. Those voters will go to Grace Lutheran Church.

- People who voted at St. Leos Catholic and live south of Stolley Park Road still will vote at St. Leos, but people who live north of Stolley Park will now vote at Abundant Life.

- Fonner Park Cafe hosted two precincts, but those have been separated. People who live in Grand Island city limits still will vote there, and those living outside city limits will now vote at St. Leos or in Alda.

- Northridge Assembly of God is no longer a polling site. About two-thirds of those voters will go to First Faith Methodist and one-third will go to Resurrection Catholic.

Every Hall County voter will be mailed a new voter card in March whether or not theres been a change in their polling place.

More than 34,000 postcards are being sent out so voters will know their polling place and any changes in their political representation, such as new city council or school board wards.

Overstreet called the precinct changes very substantial.

Polling places have changed and we want people to get their polling place found now so they are confident where theyre going to go, she said.

Maps showing the new precinct boundaries are available online on the Hall County website with precinct location feature, under Election Commission.

Maps are on public display for those who do not have a computer and can be seen at Hall County Administration Building, Grand Island City Hall, Grand Island Public Library, Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce and Multicultural Coalition.

Village offices in Cairo, Alda, Wood River and Doniphan also have maps on display.

Voters can request a mail-in ballot. Early voting starts on April 11 through May 9.

For the 2020 primary, 80% of people voted by mail and 20% in person, and for the general election, it was about 50/50, Overstreet said.

Overstreet urged voters to participate in this years elections.

We never want anybody to sit an election out, she said. We have the Nebraska governors race, all of the states constitutional officers, most of the officers for Hall County, half of the Grand Island City Council, (Grand Island) mayor, half of Wood River City Council, five of nine Grand Island school board members, half of the Wood River school board. There are a lot of really important decisions for voters to make.

She added, Its never a good time to sit out an election.
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Prosecution unclear in American's death Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight An Israeli general says it would be foolish to speculate on whether troops might be prosecuted in the death of an elderly Palestinian American they detained last month. Washington has called for full accountability in the case. After reprimanding a battalion commander and dismissing two officers involved in the Jan. 12 death of Omar Assad, 78, the military said its police were looking into the possibility of pressing charges.

Maj. Gen. Yehuda Fuchs, the chief of Israels forces in the occupied West Bank, where the death occurred, declined to speculate. It would be so stupid of me to try to assume or guess, he said Wednesday, adding that he was not privy to the probe.



A Palestinian autopsy found that Assad, who had a history of heart problems, had suffered cardiac arrest. Palestinian officials attributed this to his having been manhandled.

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Span to be dismantled for Bezos's new yacht

Rotterdam has agreed to temporarily dismantle part of its historic Koningshaven Bridge so that billionaire Jeff Bezoss 417-foot-long, three-mast yacht can pass through this summer.

The Dutch firm Oceano has been building the vessel for an estimated $500 million in the nearby city of Alblasserdam. Once finished, the Y721 will be the worlds largest sailing yacht. But for the ship to reach the open sea, the bridge known to locals as De Hef, which has a clearance of just over 131 feet, must be partly dismantled.

Although the exact cost has not been determined, Oceano and Bezos will pay it, Dutch broadcaster Rijnmond reported. (Bezos, the founder of Amazon, owns The Washington Post.)

 Miriam Berger

Canada's Conservatives oust party leader: Erin O'Toole, the leader of Canada's Conservative Party, has been ousted after he failed to defeat Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in last year's election and angered his party's lawmakers by moving the party to the center. He is the third Conservative leader that Liberal Trudeau has helped bring down. The 73-to-45 no-confidence vote has big implications for the party, which could swing farther right and become more populist.

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Afghan Taliban reopens some women's colleges: The Taliban says it has reopened public universities for female students in six of Afghanistan's 34 provinces, a move marking a major concession to international demands. Since the Islamist group seized power in mid-August, the international community has watched to see whether it would impose the same harsh measures as during its 1990s rule, including banning girls from education and women from the workplace.

Turkish strikes target Kurds in Iraq, Syria: Turkish warplanes struck suspected Kurdish insurgent positions in Iraq and Syria in a new aerial offensive that Ankara said was aimed at protecting Turkey's borders from "terrorist threats." The airstrikes killed at least four people, a war monitoring group reported, and drew condemnation from U.S.-backed Syrian Kurdish fighters battling the Islamic State.

Militiamen kill at least 60 refugees in eastern Congo: Militiamen attacked a camp for those fleeing violence in Congo's eastern Ituri province, killing at least 60 people. Fighters with the CODECO militia coalition arrived at the Plaine Savo camp in Djugu and attacked with machetes and other weapons, said the camp's head. Local officials confirmed the account.

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LA City Council to Speed Up Sidewalk Repair Programs

Los Angeles moved to speed up its sidewalk repair program after the citys controller reported only a fraction have been repaired in the six years since the city settled a $1.37 billion lawsuit with disability groups to repair sidewalks.

On Feb. 2, the LA City Council unanimously approved a motion to instruct the citys bureaus of Engineering and Street Services to evaluate a series of changes that would speed up repairs, as recommended by Controller Ron Galperin in a November 2021 report.

Galperins report found decades worth of neglect for Los Angeles sidewalks and crosswalks.

Even the settlements $1.37 billion 30-year obligation may not be enough to address decades of insufficient sidewalk maintenance, Galperin wrote.

An RV stops near a pothole-filled parking area in Fullerton, Calif., on Dec. 14, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

To speed up repairs, the departments will evaluate whether the city should prioritize commercial and residential repairs over public and city property and reconsider the citys fix-and-release policy, in which the property owner becomes responsible for maintaining the sidewalk after the initial repair by the city.

The city will also consider making minor repairssuch as filling small cracks and holesin sidewalks in reasonable condition instead of replacing the entire section of sidewalk, as it has been doing.

According to Galperin, a total of 6,600 sidewalks have been repaired thus far, while about 50,000 are still in the queue.

Since 2016, over 1,000 people have brought lawsuits against the city for sidewalk injuries, while the city paid out an additional $35 million in new settlements.

Galperins report comes after the city in 2015 settled a lawsuit brought by groups of Americans with disabilities who claimed the broken sidewalks posed danger to the elderly, injured, and disabled.

Some Angelenos submitted written public comments emphasizing the importance of accessible and safe sidewalks.

I have countless stories of Korean American seniors seriously injuring themselves in Koreatown as their only means of mobility is walking and transit, said Koreatown resident John Li. Ive known families who forgo walking because broken and cracked sidewalks contribute to a feeling of disinvested and undignified streets.

Nancy McPherson, state director of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), said passable sidewalks are crucial for the well-being of older Angelenos.

Sidewalks are a critical link connecting older adults and their families to public transportation, social activities, economic opportunities, and community services, McPherson said. Our members have resoundingly shared with us how critical walkable sidewalks are to transportation that best fits their needs.

The bureaus of Engineering and Street Services will report back to the council in 60 days with recommendations.
BlackEarth Minerals NL (ASX:BEM) has signed an Offtake and Supply Agreement with Technografit GmbH, Germany, a world-leading supplier of graphite concentrate and downstream products, which will see the BlackEarth/Metachem JV acquire up to 2,500 tonnes per annum of suitable graphite concentrate from Technografit to feed proposed operations in India.

The agreement, facilitated by BlackEarths sales and marketing partners in Europe, LuxCarbon, provides certainty of supply of graphite concentrate for BEMs Expandable Plant development, before product can be directly supplied from its Maniry operations.

LuxCarbon will work closely with Technografit to ensure its end-to-end supply chain is managed to a world-class level.

Technografit is a world-renowned leader in trading mineral raw materials, graphite sales and distribution in Europe, while BEM is a vertically integrated graphite developer with advanced mining projects in Madagascar and base metal prospects (nickel-copper-PGE) in Western Australia.

BEMs flagship Maniry Graphite Project is in Southern Madagascar, with a bankable feasibility study (BFS) underway and a focus on value added products which are in high demand.

BlackEarth is reviewing several downstream value-added graphite processing opportunities.

Terms of the agreement

Technografit will supply graphite concentrate from a range of pre-qualified sources for the phased start of the BlackEarth/Metachem JV operations in accordance with specifications required and will also work closely with Luxcarbon to ensure product from BEMs expandable graphite operations is produced to the required specification.

It will also ensure that supplies continue on a regular and consistent basis to meet short-term demand and BEMs ambitions for longer-term supply worldwide.

The agreement works for both parties with key terms including:

BlackEarth will buy from Technografit up to 2,500 tonnes per annum of graphite concentrate from the commencement date of its JV operations in India; BlackEarth may act as agent for JVCO and payment for the product may be made by either BlackEarth or JVCO in the future; Technografit must ensure the graphite concentrate provided to the buyer is supplied to the specification required and nominated by BlackEarth and/or their agents; The commencement date is February 1, 2022, or some other later date nominated by BlackEarth when its JV operational plant has been completed; The acquisition of the product shall be based on negotiated and agreed market prices at the time of agreement; and The product pricing shall not be fixed or based on any other mechanism proposed or contemplated unless the parties subsequently and mutually agree to this.

Agreement boosts BEM JV

This agreement provides an enormous boost to our JV with Metachem and the development of our plant in India and now completes our supply chain which will underpin our operations, BlackEarth managing director Tom Revy said.

The agreement guarantees our Indian operations a supply of world-class concentrate to feed our operations for the next few years prior to supplying product from our own operations at Maniry in Madagascar.

We can now move forward quickly knowing that we not only have a product offtake agreement in place (with Grafitberbau, Austria) to sell the expandable graphite we produce, this agreement also provides us with immediate access to world-class concentrate to ensure we are able to produce and sell quality high value product in the short term.

The agreement also assists to underpin our proposed plant development in Madagascar, as concentrate from this development will be provided to our downstream operations with Metachem as soon as this is available.

Our relationship with Techniografit and Luxcarbon further broadens our association with industry leading graphite product developers in Germany who have access to markets for expandable graphite and other downstream products in Europe and Worldwide.

BEM and Techniografit already have a relationship.

Techniografit managing director Dominik Georg Luh is the fourth generation of the Luh family, which has been dealing in graphite for 110 years and has previously worked with members of BEMs management team in developing supply chain operations into Europe and Asia.

Demand increasing

The agreement comes at a time when demand for expandable graphite is quickly growing.

The Global Expandable Graphite Market is expected to grow from US$202.8 million in 2020 to around US$351. 9 million by 2027.

Expandable graphite demand and growth  Source:- Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

Interestingly, approximately 35% of expandable graphite production is processed into fire retardants  the single biggest end market for expandable graphite.

Fire retardent use as a portion of expandable graphite demand and growth  Source:- Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

The remaining product is processed into flexible graphite which is the precursor to several end products such as graphite foils for use in the automotive, EV and alternative energy sectors.

Rapid demand growth is also forecast due to the increasing use of high energy density batteries in mobile devices.
Southwest Virginias medical marijuana footprint continues to grow with the addition of two new pharmacies in the region.

The RISE pharmacies currently operate in Abingdon and Salem, but another is opening in Christiansburg next Thursday in a former bank building on Roanoke Street, and a Lynchburg location is also set to open up soon as well, although no official date has been announced, according to Green Thumb Industries spokeswoman Grace Bondy.

Before the Abingdon and Salem locations were known as RISE, they were owned by Dharma Pharmaceuticals, an Abingdon-based company that still grows and processes its cannabis products in the town despite being recently bought by Green Thumb, a Chicago-based company.

Green Thumb rebranded the dispensaries as RISE, and all future pharmacies it opens in the state will also go by that name, according to Bondy.

Shanna Berry, one of Dharmas co-founders, now serves as Green Thumbs strategic leader for the Virginia market, she said at the Christiansburg operations ribbon cutting ceremony Wednesday afternoon.

Berry said shes had an interest and commitment to medical cannabis for quite some time, which led her to continuing the work after selling the company she helped found.

I have been an advocate for a long time, she said, noting that cannabis products have proven to help many patients in a variety of ways. We have people that are so thankful they have something that helps alleviate chronic pain, along with other ailments.

She also noted that cannabis offers a safer alternative to opioids and benzodiazepines, both highly addictive pharmaceutical drugs, the former mostly being used for pain and the latter for a variety of mental health conditions like anxiety, for example.

There are also so many people that have been able to get off of opiates and benzodiazepines, and they are so grateful for that, Berry said. The opioid epidemic has had a tremendously negative effect on our region.

Bondy said she couldnt release the number of patients RISE serves, but the state had 31,551 citizens with medical marijuana cards in mid-September. Officials from the Virginia Department of Health Professions did not immediately respond to a request for more recent figures.

The Christiansburg store is expected to have 15 employees once fully staffed, according to Bondy.

Patients will have the opportunity to fill out symptom forms similar to at a doctors office and will have access to free consultations with licensed pharmacists, Berry said.

Cards have been in such high demand, though, that the state quit sending out physical licenses in the fall, instead switching to emails with identification numbers taking the place of hard-copy cards.

Marijuana grown in Abingdon is used at the Salem location and others, available to anyone with a medical cannabis card, registered through the Virginia Department of Health. Only those with med cards will be allowed inside, Berry said.

More than 80 products with different applications and potencies are available at the RISE in Salem, according to the website, including edibles, extracts, flower, pre-rolled joints, topical creams and vape cartridges.

Marijuana was decriminalized in July and made available to purchase with a medical card in July, but legislators continue to hash out the details during the current General Assembly session.

As medical dispensaries continue to pop up across Virginia, a panel of state senators in Richmond spent Wednesday morning discussing how to regulate the recreational side of the cannabis market.

While Democrat-led state lawmakers in 2021 approved medical sales and made it legal for adults to use, grow and possess cannabis, a focus for legislators in 2022 is to work out licensing and regulations for the cultivation, manufacturing, testing and sale of the plant and its products to the larger commercial market.

The target date to start recreational cannabis sales is at the beginning of 2024, but there remains some possibility to move that date to July 1, 2023, if lawmakers are able to smooth out an array of complicating factors.

During Wednesdays three-hour cannabis committee meeting, questions arose on whether medical growers will be given a head-start in the recreational market, how to enact a social equity component, what barriers exist for smaller-scale entrepreneurs hoping to enter the recreational market, and whether a proposed 21% excise tax overly imposes on industry profit margins.

Beyond those considerations, whatever recreational cannabis policies the Democrat-controlled Senate eventually approves will also need to be agreeable to a Republican-majority House of Delegates, before Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin decides whether to sign into law.

Staff writer Luke Weir contributed to this report.
(Newser)  Four men accused of selling actor Michael K. Williams the fentanyl-laced heroin that killed him have been arrested and could be facing long prison sentences. Williams, best known for playing Omar Little in The Wire, died in September from what officials ruled was an accidental drug overdose. The 54-year-old was found dead in his New York City apartment. Irvin Cartagena, 39; Hector Robles, 57; Luis Cruz, 56; and Carlos Macci, 70, were arrested Tuesday and face federal charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl analogue, fentanyl, and heroin, CNN reports. The charge carries a sentence of between five and 40 years in prison.

Cartagena, who is accused of giving the drugs to Williams is also charged with causing the actor's death in connection with the narcotics conspiracy, which carries a sentence of 20 years to life, the Department of Justice says. Authorities say Cartagena was caught on security footage handing the drugs to Williams outside a building in Brooklyn. Prosecutors said the men had been under surveillance before Williams' death, the AP reports. Vials of drugs bought by an undercover officer days before the actor's overdose had the same label, "AAA Insurance," as vials found in Williams' apartment.

Authorities say Cartagena fled to Puerto Rico, where he was arrested Tuesday, after Williams' high-profile death, but the other three men continued to sell the same drugs from the same location in Brooklyn, even using the same area next to garbage cans to stash the narcotics, the Daily Beast reports. US Attorney Damian Williams said authorities will continue to use every tool available to hold dealers accountable. "This is a public health crisis. And it has to stop," he said. "Deadly opioids like fentanyl and heroin dont care about who you are or what youve accomplished. They just feed addiction and lead to tragedy." (Read more drug overdose stories.)
ABUJA, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday held a phone conservation with President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau and condemned Tuesday's attempt to subvert the established constitutional order in the West African country.

Buhari said he looks forward to working with Embalo "to strengthen the existing bilateral ties ... and the defence and promotion of democracy and its values throughout the sub-region, and the entire continent."

He commended the loyal troops in Guinea-Bissau for the show of patriotism leading to their "spectacular victory" over the disloyal elements of the military.

Embalo assured Buhari that the situation in Guinea-Bissau had been brought under control and that "all is well, and normalcy has been fully restored." 
The founder and leader of the far-right militia group the Oath Keepers spent six hours talking to the House select committee investigating the January 6 Capitol attack on Wednesday, his attorneys confirmed to CBS News. Stewart Rhodes has been charged with seditious conspiracy and other crimes stemming from his alleged involvement in the Capitol breach and is currently being held without bail.

According to his attorneys, Rhodes told lawmakers about his upbringing, schooling, military career and his work in founding and leading the Oath Keepers through the fall of 2020, including his view of the group's philosophy and mission. Both he and his attorney invoked the 5th Amendment when lawmakers asked about late 2020 through 2022, aside from general questions about his views on government, his attorneys told CBS News.

Rhodes, who appeared before investigators via Zoom from an Oklahoma jail, recently suffered a loss in federal court after a judge in Washington, D.C., denied his legal team's request that he be detained in Texas ahead of trial.

His attorneys asked Judge Amit Mehta to either free their defendant from jail or transfer him to a Texas jail to be near his lawyers as they prepare for trial in the nation's capital, set for July.

"The court will not grant Mr. Rhodes more favorable treatment than those similarly-situated defendants," the judge wrote Wednesday. He has yet to rule on Rhodes' request to reconsider his being in jail before trial.

Rhodes will ultimately join a handful of his co-defendents in the D.C. Department of Corrections facility absent court intervention.

Prosecutors allege Rhodes and 10 co-conspirators intended to stop the presidential transfer of power by January 20, 2021, when President Biden was sworn into office.

"They coordinated travel across the country to enter Washington, D.C., equipped themselves with a variety of weapons, donned combat and tactical gear, and were prepared to answer Rhodes's call to take up arms at Rhodes's direction," according to the indictment. "Some co-conspirators also amassed firearms on the outskirts of Washington, D.C., distributed them among 'quick reaction force' teams, and planned to use the firearms in support of their plot to stop the lawful transfer of presidential power."

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After weeks of planning, mostly over messaging apps, prosecutors say the members of the Oath Keepers and its affiliates formed two "stacks" to breach the Capitol building on the day of the attack.

Meanwhile, the charging documents and subsequent filings allege a separate team of Oath Keepers remained outside Washington and was "prepared to rapidly transport firearms and other weapons into Washington, D.C., in support of the operations." Such a transport was never ordered by Rhodes or any other leaders, prosecutors said.

"Rhodes stood at the center of the seditious conspiracy," the government alleged in court documents, "orchestrating plans to use force, recruiting and financing co-conspirators, purchasing weaponry and tactical gear, inciting support and action, and endeavoring to conceal his and other co-conspirators' crimes."

Rhodes and nine of his co-defendants have pleaded not guilty to charges that they planned for and participated in the January 6 Capitol attack. In all, 11 Oath Keepers have been charged with seditious conspiracy.

The House January 6 select committee has issued dozens of subpoenas, including to Trump's allies, former White House officials, campaign aides and individuals involved in the planning of the rally outside the White House before the Capitol building came under siege. Two top Trump allies, Steve Bannon and former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, have been held in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with subpoenas, and the Justice Department has charged Bannon. Both said they are following instructions from Trump, who has claimed executive privilege.

CNN president Jeff Zucker resigns after failing to disclose relationship with colleague

Ukraine's border guards patrol Russian border as they prepare for invasion

Storm system threatens millions from Northeast to Plains
Nearly five months after a September 2021 car crash in Piti that killed two women, the Guam Police Department arrested Zoya-Marie Tiro Sigeyog, 21, according to a news release.

Sigeyog was arrested and charged with the following:

Two counts of vehicular homicide.

Two counts of negligent homicide.

Reckless driving with injuries.

Speeding in a posted zone.

Imprudent driving.

No drivers license.

Fatal

Sigeyogs arrest comes after the completed accident investigation.

In September, police said a black Hyundai Tucson was traveling south by Polaris Point when the car ran off the roadway and collided with a utility pole.

A 29-year-old woman was declared dead at the scene, while another woman died after being transported to the hospital.

There were three women in the car during the crash on Marine Corps Drive by Jesus Alig Street.

Sigeyog was booked and released under the guidance of the attorney generals office.

The case is closed by police and forwarded to the attorney general for prosecution.
A Davenport man is facing a 25-year prison sentence after he allegedly brandished a firearm to steal a $1.79 Swisher Sweet cigar Tuesday from the Kwik Star on East 53rd Street, Davenport Police said.

Fortunato Alonso Herrera, 19, is charged with one count of first-degree robbery. The charge is a Class B felony under Iowa law that carries an automatic prison sentence of 25 years, 70% of which, or 17  years, must be served before parole can be granted.

Herrera also is charged with one count of first-degree theft, a Class C felony that carries a prison sentence of 10 years.

In a news release issued Thursday, Davenport Police said that Herrera, along with two teen boys and a teen girl, were involved in a shots-fired incident and stealing a vehicle. Both of those incidents also occurred Tuesday morning.

According to the news release, at 1:50 a.m. Tuesday police responded to the 500 block of East 12th Street to investigate a report of shots fired. Officers located spent shell casings and damage to an occupied residence. No one was injured.

At 4:10 a.m. Tuesday, police were sent to the Kwik Star at 2050 E. 53rd St. to investigate an armed robbery.

According to the arrest affidavit filed by Davenport Police Detective Aric Robinson, Herrera was at the store attempting to buy a Swisher Sweet cigar valued at $1.79, according to the affidavit. When asked for his identification, Herrera pulled out a firearm and left the store with the cigar.

Under Iowa law, only people 21 years of age or older are allowed to purchase tobacco.

Herrera was found at his residence and, according to the affidavit, in a post-Miranda interview admitted he had brandished the firearm and stole the cigar.

At 6:38 a.m. Tuesday, officers were sent to 1000 Blythewood Place to investigate the theft of a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe, valued at more than $10,000.

In a post-Miranda interview, Herrera admitted his involvement in stealing the vehicle.

Also involved in the shooting incident were two male teens, each 15 years old. Each is charged with one count of intimidation with a dangerous weapon. They were taken to the Juvenile Detention Center.

A 15-year-old girl also is charged in the case. She is charged with one count each of intimidation with a dangerous weapon, first-degree theft and fifth-degree theft. She also was taken to the Juvenile Detention Center.

Herrera made a first appearance Wednesday in Scott County District Court. A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for Feb. 11.

Herrera was being held Thursday night in the Scott County Jail on a cash-only bond of $10,000.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A Brandon business has been fined $5,000 for defying mask mandates in support of a trucker convoy camped out on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Natural health and organic foods store Two Farm Kids briefly had a sign posted on its front door last weekend encouraging people to drop their masks on Jan. 29 in support of the convoy, which is calling for an end to COVID-19 restrictions and vaccine mandates. The sign prompted the public to drop off their masks at city hall, burn them in a barrel, stand with the truckers who are standing up for all of us.

The sign was removed by Saturday night, said co-owner Sylvia Ubell, but the business did receive a notice and a ticket for failing to comply with an emergency health hazard order, namely COVID-19 prevention order on Feb. 1.

Two Farm Kids co-owner Sylvia Ubell at her business on 34th Street in Brandon. The business is facing a $5,000 fine over a sign calling for people to get rid of their masks in support of a truckers convoy that was in Ottawa calling for an end to COVID vaccine mandates. (Karen McKinley/The Brandon Sun)

This was about freedom of choice, said Ubell, who owns the store with her husband, Greg.

She said she has always believed pandemic health orders have been government overreach and decided to take a stand in solidarity with the truckers, saying everyone else can do the same. Emails and comments from people coming into the store prove she is not alone, Ubell said.

I and the staff have been keeping track of emails we have been getting, and Id say about 80 per cent [are] positive and 20 per cent [are] negative, she said. Our customer base has been coming in and asking questions. Some have said they are unhappy and never coming in again. All I ask my staff to do is say we hope they change their minds. Most, though, have congratulated us and said they are shopping here more.

About 75 per cent of the people who shop at Two Farm Kids come from a similar background to her, she said; they grew up in a rural setting, are self-sufficient, grow their own food and look after their health. They are open-minded and very health-oriented. They know what they need to do to stay healthy and resent having an outside entity like the government tell them they need to take drugs or feel forced to take a vaccine.

Ive been health-oriented my entire life, that is why I have this business with my husband, she said. Im being realistic. We cant restrict society forever like this. People talk to me and they wanted to comply, but their intuition said there is something about these restrictions that arent right.

She did acknowledge there are people who cant control their health, and that is unfortunate, but the majority shouldnt be restricted for this long because of that. If the government really wanted to protect peoples health, they could have invested more money in the health-care system, Ubell said.

She doubts she is going to pay the fine, adding she is considering legal action.

The province regularly receives tips about non-compliance with public health orders through the COVID tip line, a government spokesperson said. All credible reports are followed-up on. More than 3,000 enforcement officials regularly inspect businesses throughout the province to educate them about the current public health orders and ensure compliance. Most are doing their part to help protect Manitobans from the spread of COVID-19, the spokesperson said, but in some cases, further action is required.

The last week in January saw an increase in tickets being issued for failing to follow pandemic measures. Twenty-four warnings and 41 tickets were issued between Jan. 24-28 and 34 warnings and 37 tickets were issued the week prior, Jan. 17-23.

Premier Heather Stefanson said Wednesday she understands there is COVID fatigue and there has been stronger enforcement, but the focus has been mostly on warnings than fines. Most people have been following the rules and the restrictions are there to protect the health-care system from becoming overwhelmed, she said.

On health-care investment, Stefanson said there have been financial and staffing supports in place since the start of the pandemic. The Council of the Federation is meeting Friday to talk about the Canada Health Transfer, which provides long-term predictable funding for health care to provinces and territories.

[The federal government has] to work with us on this. It isnt something the provinces and territories can shoulder alone, Stefanson said. We are all in this together and we have to ensure we work together on this.

Brandon Chamber of Commerce president Barry Cooper said he is aware of Two Farm Kids actions but the vast majority of businesses in the city are in compliance with provincial health orders.

 kmckinley@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @karenleighmck1
SAN DIEGO (AP)  A former U.S. Navy captain pleaded guilty to bribery Wednesday for accepting nearly $68,000 in dinners, hotels, parties and prostitutes from a Malaysian defense contractor, prosecutors said.

Donald Hornbeck, who entered the plea in San Diego federal court, acknowledged that while directing operations of combat ships in the 7th Fleet in the Western Pacific, he benefited Leonard Francis by steering ships to ports for service by the contractor's Singapore-based company. Hornbeck also acknowledged that he shared confidential Navy information with Francis, according to a statement from the U.S. attorney's office.

Hornbeck is one of 34 Navy officials and defense contractors, including Francis, accused of a fraud and bribery scheme that among other things provided Glenn Defense Marine Asia with classified ship schedules, allowing them to beat competitors and overcharge for services.

Twenty-nine defendants have pleaded guilty.

The scheme cost the Navy some $35 million.

While scores of Navy officials were partying with Leonard Francis, a massive breach of national security was in full swing, U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman said in a statement. Today another participant has admitted that he lost his way, allowing greed to replace honor and duty as the driving force in his life."

Hornbeck, 61, of Greenfield, Indiana, is scheduled to be sentenced in September. He could face up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
WAVERLY  HoneyCreek Restaurant was packed on its last full day of business. The wait for seating neared an hour at the height of the dinner rush, and it took just as long for customers to get their meals, even with last-minute server reinforcements called in.

The Waverly dining staple had been open since 1976, but, like many other casualties of the COVID-19 pandemic, the owners struggled to staff its full-time positions. It closed for good after the first of the year.

A Facebook post announcing HoneyCreeks fate was shared almost 1,000 times and generated more than 50 comments, and a few lamented that the restaurants closing would leave just a few eateries still in Waverly.

You can count the local establishments on one hand: Vikes Corner Cafe, Trackside Bar and Grill and Great Wall. Then there are the chains: McDonalds, Runza. Subway closed its location on Highway 6 last June. Caseys General Store and Mammoth Station both have quick options, too.

Abbey Pascoe, Waverly City Council member and chair of the citys Fiscal and Economic Development Committee, understands the need for more dining options in Waverly, but its not as easy as putting up a For Lease sign and waiting for the phone to ring. Particularly in the midst of a pandemic that has caused supply chain issues and staff shortages.

We do have options, Pascoe said, but we do need more.

To survive the pandemic, Vikes had to cut their hours considerably, to 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. Owner Rae Fraley said that was the only way they could make it work  with those hours, she and her husband Nick are the only staff needed.

In the best of times, with no labor shortages, its very difficult to find people that will mesh with your team and can perform the duties that you need them to perform, Fraley said.

She said she knows the new hours dont work with a lot of peoples schedules. But its been necessary, especially as their food costs have risen 30 to 40% in the past two years, she said.

We feel bad about that. But we are actually making more profits without the added labor.

Prospective business owners face those burdens, but Waverly has a unique set of challenges, too. Chief among Waverlys limitations is its lack of vacant commercial space. Mike Palm, Waverlys building and zoning administrator, said there are very few openings in Waverlys strip malls and in areas zoned for commercial use.

We would like to see more commercial growth here, I think, but we cant really force the (property) owners to create more buildings for small businesses and whatnot, Palm said. Were just a little limited right now.

Another problem, Pascoe said, is Waverlys proximity to Lincoln. When a business owner is thinking of opening a new restaurant and is considering Waverly for the location, they have to decide whether it would make more sense to open where the potential for customers is greater.

We're, you know, five to seven miles away, on a quick-access street, she said. So of course that's going to come into play.

And when a business does open in Waverly, Pascoe said its important that Waverly citizens hold up their end of the bargain.

We have to make sure that were patronizing their establishment to make sure that theyre successful, she said. Because if they bet on Waverly, we have to reciprocate, as well.

Natasha Hoyer bet on Waverly in April of 2021, opening her hybrid womens clothing store and coffee shop Patina Joe.

She originally opened her store in Eagle, but as a Waverly resident, leasing a space with a shorter commute made more sense. And, so far, the bet has paid off.

It was definitely the right move, she said. Its been really good for my business. The communitys been awesome and very supportive.

But opening in Waverly wasnt without its hurdles. She hoped to lease a space in a building with a drive-thru window, but because of the limited retail and commercial space in Waverly, she compromised with two bays next to the former Subway location. Customers can place their coffee orders on an app and stop by for quick pick-up.

I feel like we have accommodated as best as we can, Hoyer said.

Supply chain issues were a struggle at first, too  Hoyer said her shop had to use yellow Subway lids for their coffee cups more than once in the first couple months. But despite the obstacles standing in front of a new business owner, she said shes had people contact her asking if the former Subway space was available for lease.

Its not. Hoyer would know, as she inquired about the space, too. After all, it has a drive-thru window. But as soon as she heard about Subways closing, another business had already jumped on the opportunity.

El Portal Mexican Restaurant, which has not officially made an announcement, plans to open in the former Subway space sometime this year. But delays in acquiring heavy-duty kitchen equipment have pushed their opening back. According to Pascoe, the owners are moving forward with interior construction. The restaurant also has locations in Auburn and Nebraska City.

Pascoe thinks El Portal could cause a domino effect and serve as a vote of confidence for business owners to open in Waverly.

I think that will show not just that business, but also other businesses, that, you know, this is something Waverly asked for, she said. I anticipate lines forever when they get here.

Pascoe said conversations are ongoing to lure business owners to Waverly, which has an easy selling point: exponential population growth. But with that growth, its also important for the city to offer the restaurants and shops that citizens want and need.

Its crucial for our continued growth to be able to have more businesses and restaurants come into our community, she said.

Shes confident Waverly citizens would support more restaurants and small businesses, but its tricky to create the perfect set of circumstances for business owners to take a chance on the city, whether its finding the right location or hiring enough staff.

Were doing as much as we can to try to bring these (businesses) in for the community, Pascoe said. But with the current (economic) climate, the lack of vacant buildings, its just slower than I would want and what most people want.

Sam Crisler is a reporter for The Waverly News. Reach him via email at samuel.crisler@wahoonewspaper.com.
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FBI: Minors may be behind HBCU threats Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight The FBI is investigating a recent wave of bomb threats to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) as a hate crime and has identified as many as six people  all juveniles  who investigators suspect were involved, officials familiar with the matter said. No one has been publicly charged in connection with the threats, and the officials stressed that the investigation is still active.

Because of what the callers making the threats said  and because of the institutions targeted  the FBI is exploring the threats as being motivated by racial or ethnic hatred, one official said. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe the ongoing investigation.

FBI officials said in a statement Wednesday that the investigation, which was being led by its Joint Terrorism Task Forces and involved more than 20 field offices across the country, was of the highest priority for the bureau.

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Although at this time no explosive devices have been found at any of the locations, the FBI takes all threats with the utmost seriousness and we are committed to thoroughly and aggressively investigating these threats, the bureau said.

The bureau said that in addition to colleges, houses of worship had also been targeted.

At least 16 universities closed or swept their campuses Tuesday after a spate of early-morning threats targeting historically Black campuses. The threats were part of a wave to hit schools this year. At least eight HBCUs were threatened Jan. 4, and at least six were targeted Monday.

Howard University in Washington, the target of three threats in just under a month, is on heightened alert, said Frank Tramble, a spokesperson for the campus.

 Lauren Lumpkin, Matt Zapotosky and Susan Svrluga

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Roy Moore, accuser lose defamation suits

An Alabama jury found Wednesday that neither former Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore nor a woman who accused him before the 2017 election of initiating a sexual encounter when she was 14 had defamed each other, ending an emotionally charged trial.

Leigh Corfman detailed her allegations in a 2017 Washington Post report, describing how in 1979, Moore, then a 32-year-old assistant district attorney, had touched her over her bra and underpants and guided her hand to touch him over his underwear.

Corfman filed a lawsuit against Moore in early 2018, saying he defamed her when he denied her accusations. Moore, who served as the chief justice on Alabamas Supreme Court before his failed Senate run, later countersued, claiming Corfman made slanderous claims to The Post and was trying to hurt him politically.

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The jury decided that neither side had proved its case in a trial where both Moore and Corfman took the stand. Moore was seeking monetary damages, while Corfman asked only for a declaration that she was defamed.

In the aftermath of Corfmans allegations  and others from those who said an older Moore pursued them as young women  Moore lost his Senate race to Democrat Doug Jones. In 2020, Jones lost to Republican Tommy Tuberville, who holds the seat.

 John Wagner

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About 300 companies promised to move or grow in Indiana in another record year of economic development, according to the Indiana Economic Development Corp.

The state agency, previously known as the Department of Commerce, reported businesses last year pledged $8.7 billion in investment in the Hoosier State, a 56% increase over the previous year and a new state record. Companies also promised to pay an average wage of $28.49 per hour, another state record.

IEDCs success is vitally important in revitalizing and connecting our communities, Gov. Eric Holcomb said. By strengthening our economy, reskilling our workforce, and building up and out infrastructure network, we are simultaneously enhancing our quality of place and life.

IEDC is currently pursuing a "5 Es" strategic plan that focuses on "environment, economy of the future, entrepreneurship, energy transition and telling Indianas story through external engagement."

I have never been more optimistic about the economic future of our great state as we enter 2022, Secretary Bradley Chambers said. Indiana is winning in innumerable ways. Gov. Holcomb and I are passionate about running faster and aiming even higher to create an economy of the future that serves all Hoosiers.

The state agency is awarding $500 million to regional development projects across the state, including workforce development programs, trails, wellness, housing, broadband and childcare initiatives.

The IEDC also worked with the Indiana Small Business Development Center, which secured $132.6 million for 389 new startups, the second-highest amount of funding in state history.

It worked to bring in foreign direct investment. A total of 47 foreign-owned businesses announced last year they would invest $3.55 billion in the state, paying an average wage of $29.57 an hour.

More than 1,000 foreign companies now operate in Indiana and account for 14% of the new jobs in the state.
As Illinois parents and educators await a Springfield judges ruling that could roll back Gov. J.B. Pritzkers COVID-19 school mask mandate, some suburban school districts are demanding the state deliver an off ramp from nearly two years of required virus mitigations.

The school districts requests for transition guidance from the state is emerging this week as 146 school districts, including Chicago Public Schools, prepare for the impact of a pending decision by Sangamon County Circuit Judge Raylene Grischow, who is expected to rule soon on a request to temporarily halt the governors executive orders on masking and quarantining for schools.

Grischow is considering a lawsuit from about 700 parents who allege the states virus mitigation rules for schools, including masking and exclusion from class for students who were exposed to the virus and their close contacts, deprives students of due process.

But the litigation is lingering alongside plummeting COVID-19 rates in recent weeks, prompting some suburban school district leaders and parents to ask Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the states board of education to provide guidance on how to eventually transition away from virus protocol, including masking, social distancing and exclusion from school.

In a Tuesday tweet directed to IDPH, the Illinois State board of Education and Pritzker, Kaine Osburn, the superintendent at Wilmette-based Avoca School District 37 said, Numbers are declining. You dont need to answer now, but in the coming weeks please develop a plan & metrics for the option to off-ramp masks in schools. Its leadership only your team can provide & things will get messy without it.

Osburns plea was accompanied by an IDPH chart showing steep drops in the rolling 7-day average COVID-19 positivity rate as omicron peaked and then began to decline.

Im not saying were going to get rid of masks now, but that its time for a plan, Osburn said in a Tuesday interview. Were getting pressure from the community on both sides.

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Officials at Winnetka Public Schools District 36 are also seeking guidance from the state with hopes of transitioning out of required virus protocol with the goal of being ready once conditions improve.

I am writing to advocate for school and health officials working together to design an exit strategy for COVID-19 mitigations and a measured return to normalcy, District 36 Superintendent Trisha Kocanda said in a letter to Pritzker and IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike.

Officials with the state health department and state school board did not respond to a request for comment.

One question surrounding the litigation before Grischow is whether local school boards would have the authority to pass their own virus mitigation measures if she grants a temporary restraining order halting the governors virus protocols.

In Barrington 220 School District, which is among the districts facing litigation, the board of education voted Monday to approve benchmarks that officials said will inform future mitigation decisions.

Assuming current case trends continue and local control is an option, we will likely share a date and more details on a shift to situational masking, officials said in a parent letter.

In the meantime, officials said the district remains universally masked with all contract tracing and quarantine procedures.

In recent weeks, there has been a steep drop in the average rate of new COVID-19 cases, per 100,000 school-age children, particularly in the Chicago area, according to a Tribune analysis of state and census data. After peaking around 300 new cases a day, per 100,000 kids ages 5-17, regions in the Chicago area have now dropped below half that, and some far more.

In Chicago, for example, by Tuesday, the rate of newly detected cases averaged under 50 after peaking near 280. Chicagos rate for school-age children hasnt been this low since mid-December, although its still roughly triple what it was around Halloween.

Barrington resident Marsha McClary, a mother of five who has four children enrolled in District 220, said given the recent decline in virus rates, it was responsible of the school board to prepare for an eventual halting of COVID-19 school mitigations.

McClary is among the contingent of parents who believe when it comes to students, the masks are causing more harm than good.

My daughter tells me she cant hear the teacher. ... They cant see the expressions on the faces of their teachers and friends, to know if they are happy or upset, and to gauge their reactions, McClary said.

I think the vast majority of those who want to see an end to masking are not anti-mask, but we want to make decisions for our own families, she said.

For Arlington Heights resident Robyn Swanson, a mother of three  including 13-year-old twins who had liver transplants as toddlers, and are immunocompromised  the future of the states mask mandate and other COVID-19 mitigation strategies is deeply personal.

We had an incredible journey and a long fight getting our kids healthy, so its very frustrating when people say, most kids are fine when they get COVID, said Swanson, whose children attend Arlington Heights School District 25.

District 25 is one of 21 Illinois school districts facing a lawsuit targeting the states requirement that school employees either receive the COVID-19 vaccine or test weekly.

Are we willing to write off that 1 to 2% of students? Thats just not OK, but I do get that its very difficult for people to understand, because if your kids were never in a situation like mine, its hard to put your head around it, Swanson said.

kcullotta@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @kcullotta
The estranged husband of a young mum accused of murdering and dumping her body under the family home was not insane, a court has heard.

Zoran Pandilovski, 46, is charged with the murder of Elaine Pandilovski, 44, in July 2020.

Her body was discovered underneath her Mill Park home, on the northern outskirts of Melbourne, after Pandilovski was involved in a serious car crash.

Elaine Pandilovski was a doting mum and cared for kids with special needs. Her body was found under the home she shared with her young son

Zoran Pandilovski (left), their son (centre), and Elaine Pandilovski

Zoran Pandilovski has been charged with the murder of his estranged wife. Pictured: Elaine and Zoran Pandilovski

On Thursday, the Supreme Court of Victoria heard a forensic psychiatrist had declared Pandilovski fit to stand trial.

Almost two years on, little remains known about how Victoria Police puts its case against Pandilovski.

The court heard Pandilovski had been assessed by Dr Jacqueline Rakov, who reported she believed there was insufficient medical evidence to support a defence of mental impairment.

Pandilovski is now banking on a different opinion from Dr Patrick Newton, who is expected to hand over his findings next week.

Pandilovski's barrister Chris Farrington told the court he held little hope of a different opinion from the experienced forensic doctor.

'It seems unlikely that any defence of mental impairment could be relied upon, or argued,' he said.

Should Dr Newton's conclusions match those of Dr Rakov, Pandilovski will be left with just two options: run a trial or change his plea.

Elaine Pandilovski and Zoran Pandilovski (pictured) were high school sweethearts. They had a son together

Detectives (pictured in 2020) are seen leaving the Mill Park property after discovering the body of Pandilovski's estranged wife Elaine Pandilovski

Elaine Pandilovski's (pictured) body was discovered after police conducted a welfare check at the home on at Mill Park

Pandilovski, who appeared in court via videolink, was arrested after slamming his car head-on into a random motorist in what detectives suspected at the time may have been a deliberate act to kill himself.

He faces two further charges of reckless conduct endangering life over the alleged act.

A teenage boy was among those injured in the sickening crash, which Pandilovski appeared to have escaped mostly uninjured.

His estranged wife had been found dead inside her own home shortly after during a welfare check by worried police.

No explanation has been offered by prosecutors as to why Pandilovski allegedly killed his former partner.

Instead, prosecutors deliberately withheld a police summary in order to keep the allegations secret when Pandilovski first appeared in court in 2020.

At the time, his acting lawyer revealed Pandilovski had been struggling with anxiety and depression and suffered from diabetes.

Mrs Pandilovski had been a special needs school teacher, who also cared for her 10-year-old son with autism.

Elaine Pandilovski appears deep in thought as her young son enjoys an arcade game. She would be dead less than two years after the photo was taken

Ms Pandilovski's aunt shared a heartbreaking post about the loss of a 'beautiful, caring and compassionate' woman

A police car is seen out the front of a residential property in Mill Park after the alleged murder

She had lived alone with the couple's son when her life was cruelly taken.

Family became concerned for her welfare after she failed to turn up to work at the Plenty Parkland Primary School in Mill Park.

Mrs Pandilovski had been high school sweethearts with her alleged killer and previously lived together for 15 years.

But according to neighbours they had recently separated and Pandilovski was living in the nearby suburb of Epping.

Local residents said Mrs Pandilovski was a devoted mother and had been living at the single-storey home with the couple's son.

Her vicious death rocked Melbourne and saw an outpouring of grief from friends and family.

'My beautiful niece, words can't explain how we are feeling now. Your life was taken from us and we couldn't help... I love you always, life will never be the same, our hearts will never be the same,' Ms Pandilovski's aunt wrote on social media at the time.

'Rest In Peace my beautiful Angel.'

Pandilovski will return to court in April.
The huge borrowing programme announced by the government in the Union Budget on Tuesday may prompt the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to hike the in the monetary policy meeting next week, market participants said.
A high-flying banker accused of bashing his wife has been spotted buying multiple bottles of wine just hours after cops warned him to stay away from nightclubs in Byron Bay.

Fredrik Blencke, 49, from Sydney, spent Christmas and New Year in jail for breaching his bail conditions after he was charged with assaulting his glamorous wife Annabelle Price, 30, and contravening an apprehended violence order.

Part of his strict bail conditions include not drinking alcohol or attending licensed premises.

A no-nonsense magistrate, who described the funds manager as 'out-of-control', granted Blencke bail on January 12 on the proviso he does not drink alcohol, consume illicit drugs or go to any licensed premises.

On Wednesday, Blencke was seen buying six bottles of wine from a bottle shop in Federal, near Byron Bay.

The father-of-four, who was accompanied by an unknown woman, placed the wine in the boot of his Mercedes Benz sedan and drove back to the palatial home where he is staying at until his next court appearance on May 27.

On February 2, Blencke was pictured picking up six bottles of Gemtree Luna de Fresa Rose wine from a bottle shop in Federal, 20 minutes outside of Byron Bay

Daily Mail Australia can also reveal that just hours before buy the wine, police issued Blencke with an official warning for allegedly breaching his bail conditions after he was seen at popular nightclub Casa Luna, on January 28.

'A 49-year-old man attended Byron Bay Police Station yesterday, Wednesday 2 February, as per bail conditions,' NSW Police said in a statement on Thursday.

'Upon arrival, officers spoke to the man in relation to an alleged breach of bail in Byron Bay the week prior. The man was issued an official warning.'

Blencke was spotted at the Fletcher St restaurant and nightclub and police were informed.

Just hours before his wine purchase, police issued Blencke with an official warning for allegedly breaching his bail conditions after he was spotted at popular nightclub Casa Luna, on January 28

The former investment banker, who was allegedly fired from his role at Tribeca Investment Partners after his stint in prison, scowled at the camera as he placed the six bottles of wine in the boot of his Mercedes C-class

Blencke is accused of assaulting his wife, Annabelle Price, and intimidating her

On January 12, magistrate Jacqueline Milledge banned Blencke from attending any licensed premises - including restaurants - as part of his strict bail conditions.

'Not even a Chinese restaurant, Mr Blencke. You'll be dining on take away only,' Ms Milledge said.

Blencke is facing two charges of assaulting his wife, including one which allegedly took place in a ward at a children's hospital.

He is also facing an unrelated charge of assaulting police after an alleged incident outside a Sydney pub last year.

Blencke is staying at Lune de Sang, an award winning 146 hectare timber plantation in the Byron Bay Hinterland owned by one of his good friends.

The luxury property featured as one of two filming locations for the Hulu mini-series Nine Perfect Strangers, starring Kidman, Melissa McCarthy and Luke Evans.

Blencke was pictured after the run-in with police with an unnamed woman dressed casually in ripped denim shorts and an oversized white t-shirt

The duo ordered sushi and nori rolls, before returning together to the luxury retreat he has called home since being granted bail

Blencke was pictured in a blue shirt with matching loafers and white pants

According to his LinkedIn, Blencke specialises in providing bespoke investment management solutions for high net worth clients.

But a former friend of Blencke's told Daily Mail Australia his contract was terminated after his release from prison.

In applying for bail last month, Blencke's barrister John Korn said the 48-year-old funds manager organised accommodation in Federal - 20 minutes outside of Byron Bay - and proposed his conditions include not being allowed in Greater Sydney at all.

The 49-year-old also volunteered to seek counselling specifically to deal with the breakdown of his marriage.

Magistrate Jacqueline Milledge agreed this mitigated any perceived risk to Ms Price, who police allege he assaulted and intimidated on at least two occasions.

Police allege Blencke assaulted his wife while inside a Sydney children's hospital ward, forcing medical staff to intervene

Police allege Blencke assaulted Ms Price inside a ward of the Sydney Children's Hospital, prompting several nurses to rush to her aid and order him to leave

Police allege Blencke assaulted Ms Price inside a ward of the Sydney Children's Hospital, prompting several nurses to rush to her aid and order him to leave.

The court heard that a month later, Blencke is accused of acting aggressively inside the couple's luxury Vaucluse mansion, where they pay $3,400 a week rent.

Bail was granted despite opposition by the police prosecutor, who insisted he posed an unacceptable risk to his estranged wife.

The prosecution noted he had previously breached his bail and an apprehended violence order in place for his estranged wife's safety.

'With those bail conditions I agree it would be practically impossible to pose a risk to the victim, but that's on the proviso he complies with bail, which he's demonstrated he hasn't in the past,' prosecution argued.

When describing the alleged hospital assault, she said 'the accused acted brazenly'.

Court documents state Ms Price called Blencke to inform him their daughter was in hospital on November 14, and that he was slurring on the phone.

 Slide me  Blencke is staying at Lune de Sang, an award winning 146 hectare timber plantation in the Byron Bay Hinterland owned by one of his good friends. The luxury property featured as one of two filming locations for the Hulu mini-series which was filmed in 2020 starring Kidman, Melissa McCarthy and Luke Evans

Blencke was branded 'out of control' by a magistrate, who went on to grant him bail

Fredrik Blencke and his wife are friends with Ellie and Charlie Aitken, and Hollie and Christopher Nasser, socialites in double marriage bust-up Pictured left to right: Blencke, Mr Nasser, Hollie Nasser, Ellie Aitken, Charlie Aitken

'When the [alleged] victim attempted to ask the accused to assist with her other child he became aggressive and uncooperative,' the documents state.

'An argument ensued, leading to the accused then grabbing the [alleged] victim on the left arm and gripping tightly causing immediate pain.'

On December 15, Blencke allegedly 'struck his fists' on the island bench in the kitchen, causing the bench to shake so intensely it was felt by a 12-month-old child, who was sitting in a nearby high chair.

Magistrate Milledge expressed 'great concern over [Blencke's] disposition and described his behaviour as 'out of control', but agreed to grant bail.

The court heard prosecutors will be seeking a full time custodial sentence if Blencke is found guilty of the offences he is accused of.

Mr Korn agreed his client's 'out of control behaviour needs to be addressed' but argued a bail application is not the time nor place.

'I do not intend this bail application to get into the nitty gritty of what happened,' he said. 'His out of control behaviour is something that needs to be addressed... and will be dealt with in time.'

The luxury property featured as one of two filming locations for the Hulu mini-series which was filmed in 2020 starring Kidman, Melissa McCarthy and Luke Evans
One of the bomb threats against more than a dozen historically Black colleges and universities this week was made by a person who claimed to be part of the neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division, a police chief said Wednesday.

The news comes as the FBI announced it had opened a hate crime and violent extremism investigation into the threats, some of which coincided with the first day of Black History Month. No explosives were found on any of the campuses that were threatened, but canceled classes and lockdowns have left some students on edge.

Bethune-Cookman University in Florida received a 20-minute-long phone call at 4:35 a.m. Monday, in which the caller said he placed several explosives in duffel bags around the perimeter of the university, Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young told reporters. The caller also said there would be an active shooter at 12:30 p.m. that day.

"From what we can tell, it is a neo-Nazi organization going by the name of Atomwaffen," Young said.

Over Monday and Tuesday, bomb threats were received around the country by more than a dozen HBCUs: Jackson State University, Coppin State University, Mississippi Valley State University, Morgan State University, Alcorn State University, Tougaloo College, Kentucky State University, Fort Valley State University, Xavier University of Louisiana, University of the District of Columbia, Spelman College, Edward Waters University, Howard University, and Southern University and A&M College.

On Wednesday, Young said police will have an "increased presence" on the Bethune-Cookman campus. He added he did not know how the threat might be connected to those made to other HBCUs.

"We left no stone unturned to ensure the safety of the campus," he said.

According to NBC News and the Associated Press, authorities have identified at least five people as persons of interest. An official described them to NBC News as "tech savvy" juveniles, and the threats appeared to be racially motivated. The AP reported that investigators believe the callers used spoofed phone numbers to make the threats.

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In a statement to BuzzFeed News, the FBI did not confirm that reporting but said its Joint Terrorism Task Forces are leading the investigation.

Although at this time no explosive devices have been found at any of the locations, the FBI takes all threats with the utmost seriousness and we are committed to thoroughly and aggressively investigating these threats," the statement said.

Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia reached out to federal law enforcement agencies and asked them to "prioritize" their investigation into the threats.

"These recent threats are terrifying for Georgians," Warnock said in a previous statement to BuzzFeed News. "It is painful to see, particularly on the first day of Black History Month, our Historically Black College and University students being terrorized by threats of violence. I will not stop until these hateful threats are fully investigated and Georgians at our HBCUs feel safe."

According to the Anti-Defamation League, an anti-hate organization, members of Iron March, a white supremacist discussion forum, created Atomwaffen Division in 2016. Since then, its members have been involved in white supremacist events and linked to violence, and several of its leaders have been convicted of federal crimes. The group claimed to disband in 2020, though ADL said its leadership remained active in a new hate group.

It wasn't clear on Wednesday if the caller who threatened Bethune-Cookman had ties to the group or was simply using its name as a way to make a racist threat.

This isn't the first time threats have been made to HBCUs. On Jan. 5, seven HBCUs entered lockdown after similar threats were made to Howard University, Norfolk State University, the University of Arkansas, Florida Memorial University, North Carolina Central University, Xavier University, and Prairie View A&M University, according to Yahoo News.

Jada Nelson, a sophomore at Bethune-Cookman, told BuzzFeed News on Monday that she first saw the messages about the threat from classmates.

"I thought, This is a prank," she said. Then she saw news reports that five other HBCUs had been put on lockdown as well. "Then I thought, Oh, this is really serious, it's not just one but multiple."

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The ex-husband of a fired NYPD officer who tried to have him bumped off by a hitman has spoken out about his fear that she will carry out her 'crazed' plot once released from prison.

Valerie Cincinelli, 37, was jailed for four years last November after being arrested in 2019 for the murder-for-hire scheme, but she may be released on good behavior within a matter of months.

Cincinelli pleaded guilty last April to obstruction of justice as part of an agreement with federal prosecutors - but the murder-for-hire charges were dropped.

Isaiah Carvalho, 34, worries that once his ex-wife is released, she may try to have him whacked.

'I look over my shoulder constantly. Not a day goes by I'm not afraid for my life.'

Carvalho told of his shock and surprise at finding out the woman he was married to for five years, and had a son with, was behind the sickening plot to end his life.

'I thought I was marrying someone who swore to protect and serve, a cop. Instead, I got a crazed lunatic,' Carvalho told Inside Edition on Wednesday.

Isaiah Carvalho, whose ex-wife was an NYPD cop and tried to have him murdered by a hitman, has spoken of his surprise at finding out the woman he married was behind the plot

Valerie Cincinelli, 37, is in jail after she was allegedly accused of offering her boyfriend $7,000 to hire a hitman to kill her estranged husband,

Cincinelli's boyfriend John DiRubba, right, turned on her after learning she was also planning to have his 13-year-old daughter killed

DiRubba, Cincinelli's boyfriend, cooperated with police and he and Isaiah Carvalho agreed to stage the picture (above) showing Carvalho's 'murder'

Ex-cop Valerie Cincinelli, 37 (left), was sentenced in November to 48 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to obstruction of justice in connection with a plot to have her estranged husband, Isaiah Carvalho, killed. He is pictured in November at her sentencing arriving at Federal Court in Central Islip

The FBI found out about the plan to bump him off after Cincinelli's boyfriend, tasked with recruiting a hitman to carry out the killing, went to the feds instead.

Her estranged husband then had to stage his own death in order to convince Cincinelli the hitman had done his job.

But it wasn't until the fired NYPD officer was locked up that all the details were revealed to him.

During 2019, when the couple were going through an acrimonious divorce, Cincinelli put her 'sugar daddy' boyfriend, John DiRubba, 57, in charge of hiring a hitman for $7,000, he said.

The money was converted into gold to make it 'untraceable.'

Cincinelli is seen reacting with fury to the hit man for sending her a message confirming the murder

Cincinelli was captured on video as she reacted to news about the 'death' of her ex-husband

Cincinelli is seen in a video cli being told that the hit man has texted confirmation that the murder has been carried out - sending a request for a further $3,000 payment, and a photo of the 'dead' man. The photo had been staged

Video released by FBI shows Cincinelli's reaction after being told her husband was 'killed'

Cincinelli feigned shock and upset as she was told of her husband's 'demise'

Cincinelli was accused of crying crocodile tears after finding out her ex-husband was killed

Inside Edition played Carvalho the footage of his wife reacting to his death for the first time

Carvalho now worries that once his ex-wife is released, she may go back to her original alleged plan and find someone else to finish the job. 'I look over my shoulder constantly', he said

Carvalho said he thinks his wife thought that she might get away with the crime.

'I really believe she did. She went through with it. Took gold coins out. She had every intention of going through with it,' he told the program.

Cincinelli's alleged plan came undone after she decided to add another victim to her list: DiRubba's own 13-year-old daughter, whom she was said to be jealous of because her father would buy her pricey presents.

DiRubba told police about the plot after being arrested for an unrelated crime. He then cooperated with them to ensnare Cincinelli.

On the day of the assassination, Carvalho worked with DiRubba and the FBI to set up an elaborate crime scene.

He was taken to a secret location and asked to pose hunched over in a car with broken glass scattered over him so they could dupe Cincinelli into thinking her hit man had been successful.

'It was absolutely insane... it was the craziest thing I've ever had to experience,' he said.

Cincinelli, pictured with Carvalho and her daughter from a previous relationship was jailed for 48 months but is likely to be out far sooner on good behavior grounds

Cincinelli joined the New York police department in 2007 and worked out of the Queens 106th Precinct (above) in Ozone Park

Cincinelli is seen being led into court. In November she was sentenced to four years for her role in planning the botched murder of her ex-husband, and her new boyfriend's teen daughter

'The FBI told me to sit in the car. They took glass they put it all on the floor and told me to hunch over into the passenger seat,' Carvalho explained.

An undercover detective then went to Cincinelli's home on Long Island to show her the photos and told her she needed to send an additional $3,000 to kill her boyfriend's daughter.

A photo was then shown to Cincinelli as proof of her ex's death.

Cincinelli sobbed when she was told about the 'death' but hidden devices then recorded her response after the detectives left her home.

She quickly began discussing her 'alibi' with the boyfriend.

Soon afterwards, the FBI swooped in on her home and she was arrested.

Cincinelli had joined the New York police department in 2007 and worked out of the Queens 106th Precinct, in Ozone Park.

However, she was stripped of her badge and gun and placed on modified assignment in 2017 following a number of domestic incidents, an official said.

Carvalho attends the sentencing of his ex-wife who tried to have him killed, last November
CARBONDALE  Wednesday began with temperatures above freezing as Southern Illinoisans waited for temperatures to drop and bring freezing rain and sleet.

Many schools and businesses announced they would close early, trying to stay ahead of the predicted winter storm, which dumped heavy snow in the central and northern parts of the state.

Southern Illinois University, which is usually slow to cancel classes, announced it would close at 2 p.m. The campus is scheduled to open at 6 a.m. Friday, but officials said they would monitor the situation through Friday to see if additional closures were necessary.

John A. Logan College announced it would close the campus and Logan Fitness at 3 p.m. Wednesday and remain closed Thursday. Staff and faculty were encouraged to avoid campus.

Other elementary and junior and senior high school suspended their activities Wednesday afternoon in anticipation of winter weather.

Joshua Stafford, superintendent of Vienna High School, sent an email at 10:45 a.m. Wednesday announcing that all Johnson County schools would close at 1:30 p.m., with New Simpson Hill School dismissing at 1:45 p.m.

At about 4 p.m., Stafford was still seeing rain in Vienna with no freezing rain or sleet.

It was 63 down here yesterday, and its just still raining, Stafford said.

Stafford likes to see kids safe at school. He knows they are warm and fed, in addition to learning. Teachers and staff also have things they need to teach or do at school.

It is a very difficult decision when to close school. One of the best, safest place for kids is at school, Stafford said.

He added that it is hard for parents who cannot leave work to make sure their children are safe, too.

When weather comes in the evening, its easier to determine when to cancel school. The current storm was hitting the area earlier.

Du Quoin Mayor Guy Alongi said sleet was covering the ground Wednesday afternoon.

Everybodys talking about four to six inches of snow coming. We have our crews on the streets. Theyve been out since about noon, Alongi said.

He was at John A. Logan College in Carterville and returned to his office about 11 a.m. When he left the office at 12:30 p.m., a lot of sleet was on the ground.

Matt Holiner, a meteorologist for The Southern Illinoisan, said sleet is definitely better than freezing rain, but it is still slick.

Sleet is something that is not that easy to get. Holiner said the conditions have to be just right, and they were Wednesday. He predicted a slowing or stop in precipitation in the early evening. Another low pressure front would bring more precipitation later in the evening.

It will switch over to snow overnight, but when? By morning, snow will be falling, Holiner said.

Northern parts of Southern Illinois should expect to have 1 to 2 inches of sleet covered by four to six inches of snow. The heaviest snow is predicted overnight into Thursday morning.

He added that the winter storm warning is in effect to 12 a.m. Friday. He said because snow is still in the forecast that might change.

Holiner also warned everyone to drive carefully. Temperatures will continue to drop Friday, making driving conditions slick. Temperatures are forecasted to be near freezing on Saturday. Holiner said that Saturday will be a better day to venture out because major roads should be cleared.

Closer to Kentucky, freezing rain will replace the sleet. Holiner reminded everyone that no vehicle is safe on ice.

In addition to precipitation, the wind will pick up. Holiner said gusts could reach 40 mph. The wind is forecasted to end Friday.

Holiner said there is a lot more fun to be had before the winter storm is over.
Former Australian of the Year Grace Tame has been injured in a nasty bicycle accident.

Ms Tame was rushed to hospital on Thursday where she was treated for a broken collarbone and a grazed shoulder, but is now 'on the mend' and recovering at home.

In an Instagram post describing the accident, she said: 'Bike stack, broken collarbone. Thank you for understanding, we may take a while to respond.

Grace Tame's injuries include a broken collarbone and nasty graze. She has also been forced to wear a cast as she recovers

On Wednesday Grace Tame finally explained why she refused to smile when meeting the Prime Minister

'Out of hospital now and on the mend.'

The accident comes just days before Ms Tame is due to address the National Press Club, where she will speak alongside Brittany Higgins.

Ms Tame is an outspoken advocate for survivors of sexual assault, and made headlines last month after an awkward encounter with Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

She stood stony faced during a photograph with Mr Morrison and his wife Jenny and appeared reluctant to shake his hand at a morning tea for Australian of the Year finalists, sparking days of controversy and debate.

Addressing the incident for the first time, Mr Morrison said he supported Ms Tame's advocacy and work during her tenure as Australian of the Year.

'When Jenny and I invite someone to our home, we greet them with a smile and they're always welcome, and that day was actually about all the finalists we came to celebrate,' Mr Morrison told radio station 4BC.

Outgoing Australian of the Year Grace Tame made headlines last month after her stony faced encounter with Prime Minister Scott Morrison

'I haven't raised any issues about (the incident) - all I'm saying is we were there that day to celebrate those who had done an incredible job for our country.'

Ms Tame attracted criticism from some in the government, with one LNP senator calling her 'childish', but also received widespread support.

On Wednesday Ms Tame addressed the controversy herself, saying it would have be 'hypocritical' of her to be friendly after repeatedly criticising the Prime Minister over his response to women's safety issues.

'The survival of abuse culture is dependent on submissive smiles and self-defeating surrenders. It is dependent on hypocrisy,' she wrote on Twitter.

The 27-year-old suggested it would be 'hypocritical' of her to be friendly to the PM

'My past is only relevant to the extent that I have seen - in fact I have worn - the consequences of civility for the sake of civility.

'What I did wasn't an act of martyrdom in the gender culture war. It's true that many women are sick of being told to smile, often by men, for the benefit of men.

'But it's not just women who are conditioned to smile and conform to the visibly rotting status-quo. It's all of us.'

The then-Australian of the Year was among the government's harshest critics for its handling of the alleged 2019 rape of former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins in a federal minister's office, which became public last year.

Ms Tame said the government 'doesn't get it', following its subsequent failure to pass all legislative reforms recommended by Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins.
plans several stops during a visit to Asia this spring, which will be his first to the region as president and include a summit with three key regional allies in Japan, a senior administration official told Reuters.
The has confirmed purchasing NSO Group's powerful spyware tool Pegasus, whose chronic abuse to surveil journalists, dissidents and human rights activists has long been established. It suggested its motivation was to stay abreast of emerging technologies and tradecraft.

The agency added in a statement Thursday that it obtained a limited license from the Israeli firm for product testing and evaluation only, never using it operationally or to support any investigation.

But critics wondered why the premier US law enforcement agency would need to pay for access to a notorious surveillance tool that has been extensively researched by public interest cyber sleuths if its interest was so limited.

Spending millions of dollars to line the pockets of a company that is widely known to serially facilitate widespread human rights abuses, possible criminal acts, and operations that threaten the US's own national security is definitely troubling, said Ron Deibert, director of Citizen Lab, the University of Toronto internet watchdog that has exposed dozens of Pegasus hacks since 2016.

At the very least, this seems like a terribly counterproductive, irresponsible, and ill-conceived way to keep abreast of surveillance tech, he added.

An spokesperson did not say what the agency paid NSO Group or when, but The New York Times reported last week that it obtained a one-year license for USD 5 million, testing it in 2019. On Thursday, The Guardian quoted a source familiar with the deal as saying the paid USD 4 million to renew the license but never used the spyware, which infiltrates a target's smart phone, granting access to all its communications and location data and converting it into a remote eavesdropping device.

In November, the US Commerce Department blacklisted NSO Group, barring it from access to US technology. Apple subsequently sued the company, calling it amoral 21st century mercenaries.

NSO Group has said Pegasus is programmed not to target phones with the +1 US country code, but American citizens living abroad have been among its victims.

Deibert, of Citizen Lab, called for a congressional investigation. Sen Ron Wyden of Oregon said in a statement that the US public deserves greater transparency from its government about any relationships with NSO and other cyber-mercenaries and should know if its government believes the use of these tools against Americans is legal.

People hacked with Pegasus have included Uganda-based US diplomats, Mexican and Saudi journalists, leading members of Poland's opposition, the ex-wife of Dubai's ruler and her British lawyers, Palestinian human rights activists and Finnish diplomats.

NSO does not identify its clients but says it sells its products only to state security agencies upon approval of Israel's Defense Ministry. It says the products are intended to be used against criminals and terrorists.

The key parts of the FBI statement issued Thursday, initially in response to a request from the Guardian:"The FBI works diligently to stay abreast of emerging technologies and tradecraft not just to explore a potential legal use but also to combat crime and to protect both the American people and our civil liberties. That means we routinely identify, evaluate, and test technical solutions and services for a variety of reasons, including possible operational and security concerns they might pose in the wrong hands.

The FBI procured a limited license for product testing and evaluation only, there was no operational use in support of any investigation. Since our testing and evaluation is complete, and we chose not to proceed with use of the software, the license is no longer active. Accordingly, the software is no longer functional.
Queensland's top doctor has released a study of random homes that found four out of five Covid-positive people had no symptoms at all.

The state's Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard unveiled the research, which saw health workers randomly survey 117 houses on the Gold Coast over consecutive weekends in January, at the state's Covid update on Thursday.

The survey is the first of its kind in Australia to find out how many people have Covid-19 and don't know it.

On January 22, when the current Omicron wave was at its peak in the city, 20 people out of 117 tested came back positive from PCR tests.

Only four of those 20 were showing any symptoms, Dr Gerrard said, and only two knew they were positive.

Queensland's Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard commissioned the Australian-first study to assess how many people have Covid-19 and don't know it, using a random sample of Gold Coast households

'To recap, four out of five had no symptoms and nine out of 10 did not know they were positive.

'It is quite extraordinary.

'There are people walking around the Gold Coast who had no idea they were infected...hence the importance of masks even when you feel well.

'A lot of people that have been infected are completely unaware they were infected. That number is significant.

The survey was repeated on the following weekend, when 11 out of 143 people tested positive.

Of those, six reported having symptoms.

The revelations came as the state recorded another nine deaths and 8643 new cases.

A survey of Gold Coast households found four out of five Covid-positive people had no symptoms and nine out of 10 did not know they were positive

'There will be families out their grieving today and tonight,' Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

Thursday's numbers compare with 9,630 infections and 16 deaths, including a child under 10 years, announced yesterday.

Four of the people who died were in aged care and aged over 60.

The deaths included one person was in their 60s, two in their 70s, three in their 80s, one in the 90s and two over the age of 100. Three people were unvaccinated, one had one dose, four were double vaccinated and one person was triple vaccinated.

The latest numbers in Queensland came as the Federal health department announced 16 and 17-year-olds will be able to come forward for a booster jab three months after their second dose of a vaccine.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  New Zealands government on Thursday said it will end its quarantine requirements for incoming travelers and reopen its borders, a change welcomed by thousands of citizens abroad who have endured long waits to return home.

Since the start of the pandemic, New Zealand has enacted some of the worlds strictest border controls. Most incoming travelers need to spend 10 days in a quarantine hotel room run by the military, a requirement that has created a bottleneck at the border.

The measures were initially credited with saving thousands of lives and allowed New Zealand to eliminate or control several outbreaks of the coronavirus.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern outlines the Government's plans, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022, that will dismantle its quarantine system and reopen its borders to the world. Since the start of the pandemic, New Zealand has enacted some of the world's strictest border controls. (Dean Purcell/New Zealand Herald via AP)

But, increasingly, the border controls have been viewed as out-of-step in a world where the virus is becoming endemic, and in a country where the omicron variant is already spreading. The bottleneck forced many New Zealanders abroad to enter a lottery-style system to try and secure a spot in quarantine and passage home.

The shortcomings of the system were highlighted over the past week by pregnant New Zealand journalist Charlotte Bellis, who was stranded in Afghanistan after New Zealand officials initially rejected her application to return home to give birth. After international publicity, officials backed down and offered her a spot in quarantine, which she has accepted.

The border changes mean that vaccinated New Zealanders returning from Australia will no longer need to go into quarantine from the end of this month, and vaccinated New Zealanders returning from the rest of the world can skip quarantine by mid-March. They will still be required to isolate at home.

However, most tourists will need to wait until October before they can enter the country without a quarantine stay. And anybody who isnt vaccinated will still be required to go through quarantine.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she knows many people associate the border controls with heartache but they have undeniably saved lives.

There is no question that for New Zealand, it has been one of the hardest parts of the pandemic, she said. But the reason that it is right up there as one of the toughest things we have experienced is, in part, because large-scale loss of life is not.

She said the controls meant not everyone could come home when they wanted to. But it also meant that COVID could not come in when it wanted to, either.

Ardern said the restrictions had allowed New Zealand to build its defenses against the virus by achieving high levels of vaccination while also keeping the economy running strongly.

About 77% of New Zealanders are fully vaccinated, according to Our World in Data. That rises to 93% among those aged 12 and over, according to health officials.

New Zealand has reported just 53 virus deaths among its population of 5 million.

New Zealands economy did return to growth quickly after a pandemic dip, and unemployment decreased to 3.2% in the latest quarter, the lowest level since record-keeping began in 1986. But the government has also increased borrowing sharply and home prices have skyrocketed.

Opposition leader Christopher Luxon said the reopening of the border was welcome news, and his National Party had long called for the government to end the lottery of human misery.

Ardern said it was a first step toward normality.

There was life before, and now life with COVID, but that also means there will be life after COVID too, a life where we have adapted, where we have some normality back, and where the weather can once again take its rightful place as our primary topic of conversation, Ardern said. We are well on our way to reaching that destination. Were just not quite there yet.
Activists stage a protest in support of a British teenager accused of fasely claiming she was raped by Israeli tourists, during her trial in eastern Cyprus in 2019 (AFP/Getty)

On the face of it, some justice has at last been served in the story of a 19-year-old British student allegedly raped by 12 Israeli men at a Cyprus beach resort in 2019.

Two years ago, the Cypriot police and a local judge tried to blame the young woman and allowed her alleged attackers to return to Israel as fast as possible. There was outrage in Cyprus and a legal campaign was launched to overturn the four-month suspended sentence handed to the young woman for fomenting public mischief. She was allowed to return home to Derby with a guilty verdict for fabricating her claim.

Now Cypruss Supreme Court has overturned the conviction and cleared her name. Her family and the lawyers who took up her case are, naturally, delighted.

But it is worth remembering, despite this welcome news, that the brutal sexual assault claim seems to have been swept to one side for reasons of realpolitik. Cyprus is one of the more corrupt EU member states, where Russian oligarchs regularly launder money. Cyprus issued 3,000 EU passports to Russian and Chinese businessmen with side payments to politicians, until the scheme was exposed in 2020.

That was also the year when Cyprus forged an anti-Turkish strategic alliance with Israel and Greece to jointly exploit gas fields in the eastern Mediterranean. Turkeys president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, reputed to be a secret member of the Muslim Brotherhood, a major anti-Jewish and anti-Israeli Islamist network, originating in Egypt, has stoked up tensions against Greece and Cyprus as Ankara claimed territorial water rights over the eastern Mediterranean with its Greek islands.

In a major diplomatic coup, the Greek government signed a triple alliance with Israel and Cyprus which was renewed with grand pomp in Jerusalem in December. The US is also involved in the alliance to counter Turkey irredentism. Israel is now stretching its diplomatic wings as a regional power following the decision of the UAE and Bahrain to recognise Israel and open an embassy in Jerusalem under the so-called Abraham Accords in August 2020.

Story continues

For Israel to break out of the Arab Leagues recognition boycott and regional isolation was important. So was the Israeli commitment to invest and encourage tourism in Cyprus following the formation of the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum  in effect, a Greek-driven strategic partnership to offset Turkeys aggressive anti-Greek foreign policy set in motion by Erdogan.

The young English woman was an unwitting victim in these diplomatic manoeuvrings. There was no way Cyprus, a member of the Commonwealth, was going to charge, detain or put on trial  let alone imprison  12 Israeli men on charges of rape. The young men were rushed out of Cyprus. Instead, in what appeared to be a cynical manipulation of justice, the young woman was accused by the police of lying. A court found her guilty and imposed a four-month prison sentence which was suspended.

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Now that the Israel-Greece-Cyprus triple alliance is better rooted and delivering for its three member states, as well as for the US, which wants to see Israel accepted as a legitimate state in the region, no one is going to bring the Israelis back to answer for their alleged crimes.

Cyprus, meanwhile, as one of the EUs offshore financial centres, remains beholden to Russia for financial investment flows, often from illegal sources. Cyprus has become a quasi-Russian colony in the Mediterranean with 10,000 permanent residents in a population of 1.2 million and 8.2 million tourist visitors from Russia in the decade before the Covid pandemic.

The Cypriot city of Limassol is known as Limassolgrad and over half the golden EU passports were sold to Russians. The law office founded by the Cypriot president, Nicos Anastasiades, and now run by his children was involved in processing EU passports for Russians.

So while a young British woman claims some vindication after she was badly treated by Cypriot police and law officers, the people accused of attacking her remain free and uncharged and Cyprus continues its role as an ally of Israel and a friend of the Kremlin.

Denis MacShane is the UKs former minister of Europe
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

This is so much fun, one of the organizers of the gathering of the variously aggrieved that has paralyzed the nations capital said on Tuesday. We have all of Ottawa gridlocked right now.

Fun.

Thats about as revealing a one-word description as one could hope to find of the motivations, machinations and misinformation related to the so-called protest that started as an outcry from truckers angered by the imposition of vaccination/quarantine requirements for those whose business takes them across the Canada-U.S. border, but with lightning speed morphed into a distasteful spectacle in which hateful rhetoric and imagery, profound disrespect for monuments of solemn commemoration and outright hostility toward the people who live and work in downtown Ottawa have become the hallmarks of the gathering.

JUSTIN TANG / THE CANADIAN PRESS Trucks participating in a cross-country convoy protesting measures taken by authorities to curb the spread of COVID-19 are parked on Wellington Street in front of Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

The utterer of the fun observation, a fellow by the name of Patrick King, has been identified as one of the currently embedded convoys organizers. His association with the trucking industry is unclear, but his affiliation with far-right groups espousing racist views turns out to be rather well documented.

A member of an Alberta group involved in the Ottawa-bound caravan, Mr. King has a history of inflammatory comments, such as the suggestion Canada is being flooded with immigrants in order to co-opt the education system in an effort to reduce procreation among white people, or the threadbare anti-Semitic conspiracy theory that Jews are secretly controlling global finances, media and governance.

In an online statement posted Tuesday, Mr. King stated the only way this (protest/conflict) is going to be solved is with bullets.

In an online statement posted Tuesday, Mr. King stated the only way this (protest/conflict) is going to be solved is with bullets.

To be clear: this is not a random participant in this ongoing occupation of Ottawa and the affiliated disruptions at border crossings in other parts of the country. These are not the views of one of a few bad apples. This is someone who has been identified as having influence within whatever passes for organization of this protracted disruption.

And sadly, hes not alone. There are thousands more like him, pestilent provocateurs gleefully hijacking the convoys original intention.

Fun is most certainly not a word that would be employed by the citizens of Ottawa whose businesses have been forced to close, or whose properties have been subjected to various scatological indignities, or whose simple decision to protect themselves and others by wearing a face mask in public places has been met with derision and abuse at the hands of the self-styled protesters.

Fun is most certainly not a word that would be employed by the citizens of Ottawa whose businesses have been forced to close, or whose properties have been subjected to various scatological indignities.

Fun would also not be the word of choice for those still-working truckers  who count themselves among the 90 per cent in the industry who have chosen to be vaccinated  whose cross-border commerce has been brought to a standstill by police-defying blockages of Canada-U.S. land border crossings.

Fun might be how one would describe the past weeks disruptions if, for them, this wasnt really about trucking or access to work or the integrity of the supply chain, but rather was driven by an interest only in oneself and ones selfish impulses based in an ongoing absorption of internet-spawned vaccine misinformation and toxic, xenophobic nonsense.

Loud and disruptive and angry it may be, but this clumsily unleashed airing of grievances represents barely a tiny sliver of a minute fraction of Canadian public opinion.

Those who remain in the protest enclaves in the nations capital and at border crossings say they wont leave until the rest of Canada acquiesces to their as-yet-unarticulated demands. Thats not going to happen. Loud and disruptive and angry it may be, but this clumsily unleashed airing of grievances represents barely a tiny sliver of a minute fraction of Canadian public opinion.

Its time for them to go home, and let the rest of Canada return to whatever actually passes for fun in a pandemic lurching into its third year.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

RCMP have charged a woman who allegedly refused to wear a face mask and berated shoppers for complying with COVID-19 rules inside a Steinbach mall.

Part of the arrest at Clearspring Centre was captured in a video, which showed four officers trying to lift the maskless woman to her feet before carrying her by the arms and legs to an exit around 5:45 p.m. Monday.

Before police were called, the woman was handing out cookies and sitting on the shopping centre floor with a cardboard sign reading I support the truckers, referring to anti-COVID-19 vaccine mandate demonstrators whove occupied streets in Ottawa.

DORI AMOND / FACEBOOK Steinbach RCMP arrest maskless woman at Clearspring Centre Monday evening. A portion of the incident was captured on camera and has been shared on social media. January 31, 2022

She was yelling at customers to take off their masks, a source claimed.

On Wednesday, the 54-year-old woman, who refused to give her name, told the Free Press she is medically exempt from wearing a mask after being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. She denied doing anything illegal.

If they jail me, I dont care anymore, said the woman, adding she has been ticketed three times for failing to wear a mask in an indoor public place. I will lay down my life to fight for my freedom.

When officers responded to a report of a disturbance at the mall at 5 p.m., the woman refused to identify herself or show proof she was medically exempt from wearing a mask, an RCMP news release said.

Officers requested she put on a mask, which she refused to do and became verbally abusive to officers, the release stated.

After repeated attempts to get her to wear a mask or leave the premises, as well as providing a warning that she could be arrested, the officers began to physically remove her from the building at 5:46 p.m., after 43 minutes of talking to the woman to get her to leave on her own.

Smartphone video posted on Facebook did not show what happened before police tried to remove the woman.

The clip began with her sitting on the floor as officers tried to get her to stand.

Police struggled to lift her, as she appeared to stiffen her body, and they dragged her a short distance before stopping and asking her to stand.

I have a spinal injury. I had spinal surgery and if you damage me, the woman said.

Stand up so that you dont hurt yourself, a female officer said.

Sitting on the floor, the woman shouted as she asked the officers if they liked their job.

Not when I have to deal with people like you, a female officer replied.

You are harassing me. I have done nothing wrong, the woman said.

The officers each grabbed a limb and carried the woman to a set of doors, where she was again asked to stand.

In a second clip posted to social media, the woman was heard breathing loudly and coughing as she lay on her side near the doors.

Deep breath in, deep breath out. We have EMS en route, a female officer said.

The female recording the video heckled police, calling them disgusting and You dont deserve to be wearing your badge.

DORI AMOND / FACEBOOK Police struggled to lift her, as she appeared to stiffen her body, and they dragged her a short distance before stopping and asking her to stand.

RCMP said the woman began to have laboured breathing, and was helped by officers until paramedics arrived to take her to hospital, where she was treated and released.

She was charged with failing to comply with a public emergency health order for not wearing a mask in an indoor public place. The fine for such an offence is $298.

RCMP said the officers actions were carried out under the supervision and authorization of Steinbach detachment commander Staff Sgt. Harold Laninga.

At least one member of mall staff had asked her to put on a mask before RCMP arrived, a source said.

She has been banned from the mall until further notice.

Clearspring Centre declined to comment.

The incident highlights volatile situations that potentially await Manitobas police officers, public health inspectors and private security guards as they enforce provincial COVID-19 public health orders.

In Winkler, where shoppers have expressed concerns about maskless customers in big-box stores, police Chief Ryan Hunt said most people caught flouting the rules take it in stride and do not react negatively.

He said officers havent faced any violence while enforcing the rules.

You get dialogue like, This isnt right, but were not seeing any assaultive behaviour, said Hunt. You get some who are angry because theyre getting a ticket, but we havent had any big issues here.

Meanwhile, Winnipeg Police Service officers are assaulted and verbally abused on a daily basis, said spokesman Const. Jay Murray. I dont know if there are any incidents specific to mask use, but it happens all the time.

Brandon Police Service spokeswoman Sgt. Kirby Sararas was not aware of any incidents where officers faced aggression for enforcing coronavirus rules.

Occasions when we are called to speak with someone who is not in compliance with the mask mandate have been very rare, she wrote in an email.

chris.kitching@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @chriskitching
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

After admitting last week she did not follow the provinces conflict of interest rules in not disclosing the sale of properties worth millions of dollars, Premier Heather Stefanson now says she did disclose the transactions  just not to the public.

To say that the disposition of the assets was not disclosed is wrong  it was, said the normally unflappable Manitoba premier, who was clearly annoyed by questions on the matter at a media briefing Wednesday to announce the loosening of public health restrictions.

Stefanson said she told conflict of interest commissioner Jeffrey Schnoor, who meets confidentially with elected members to advise them on any potential issues they may have.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS The Drury Manor apartment block at 1833 Pembina Highway. One of the $31-million worth of properties Premier Heather Stefanson failed to publicly disclose the disposal of in 2016 and 2019.

She did not, however, file statements on the disposal of $31 million in property in 2016 and 2019 with the clerk of the legislative assembly  which is required by law. It is the only place the public can view an elected members disclosure statements.

The Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Conflict of Interest Act requires that, within 15 days of the start of a session, elected members must file a statement of their and their spouses assets, and any potential conflicts, with the clerk of the legislative assembly.

If they acquire or dispose of assets afterward, they must file another disclosure statement form with the clerks office and meet with the conflict of interest commissioner to discuss it within 60 days.

Stefanson did not provide the information in question to the clerks office.

Last week, when asked why she didnt disclose she no longer owned the properties formerly listed as assets, Stefansons office issued a statement saying the information should have been submitted to the clerks office.

It was an oversight on my part, the comment attributed to the premier said. Stefanson planned to correct the lack of disclosure immediately, it said.

The Tory premier couldnt, however, because the act requires the form is submitted within weeks of disposing of assets  not more than two years.

On Wednesday, when asked how she could overlook the multimillion-dollar sale of two Winnipeg apartment buildings in 2019  when she was housing minister  the premier insisted she told the conflict of interest commissioner, and suggested that was sufficient.

Schnoor, who cant disclose what he tells elected members, did not respond when asked if he advised Stefanson she neednt follow the rules requiring members to disclose the disposal of assets.

To say that the disposition of the assets was not disclosed is wrong  it was.

 Premier Heather Stefanson

NDP Leader Wab Kinew questioned the premiers reversal.

Everyone in Manitoba would notice if they made $31 million off a few real estate sales, Kinew said in a scrum with reporters Wednesday.

If shes insisting today that there was nothing wrong, then why did she apologize for it (Tuesday)? he said. Why was she apologizing and then today coming out and doubling down and pulling a 180 and saying she did nothing wrong?

The Opposition leader compared Stefanson to her predecessor, former premier Brian Pallister.

This premier not only gets angry and tries to go on the attack if you ask why they broke the rules, but they seem to believe theres another set of laws and rules they have to adhere here to but theyre not the ones the rest of Manitoba has to live by.

This premier not only gets angry and tries to go on the attack if you ask why they broke the rules, but they seem to believe theres another set of laws and rules they have to adhere here to but theyre not the ones the rest of Manitoba has to live by.

 NDP leader Wab Kinew

Also Wednesday, the premier was asked if she supports Tory MP Candice Bergens recent comments in the House of Commons comparing the toppling of statues at the Manitoba legislature on Canada Day 2021 with the actions of so-called freedom convoy protesters waving Nazi flags and desecrating the National War Memorial in Ottawa.

Pressed by reporters, Stefanson would not say one groups actions were worse than the others, nor call out Bergen for saying theyre equivalent. The premier said she denounces all acts of vandalism and supports Indigenous reconciliation.

Manitoba Liberal Leader Dougald Lamont said there is no comparison:the freedom protesters are worse.

This is a tiny minority who are a radical, fringe group and the premier keeps sucking up to them, Lamont said Wednesday.

Stefanson should stand up for whats right and distance herself from extreme views in parts of the conservative movement, Kinew added.

carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca
New Jersey State Police ended their search for Bryan Vanassen, a Warren County man who had been missing since Monday morning.

State Trooper Sgt. Alejandro Goez said on Thursday that Vanassen was found in West Virginia by someone who had seen posts about his disappearance on social media.

Vanassen was last seen at his home in Harmony, New Jersey, at 7 a.m. and left without his cell phone, police said in an alert on Facebook.

Authorities believed Vanassen drove away in a black 1988 Ford Bronco with the New Jersey license plate number A87NZY, which is noticeable for it's lifted suspension and a large rear antenna.

Nicholas Katzban is a breaking news reporter for NorthJersey.com. To get breaking news directly to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.

Email: katzban@northjersey.com

Twitter: @nicholaskatzban

This article originally appeared on New Jersey Herald: Warren County NJ man missing since Monday has been found
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Spurned by the Napa public school system, supporters of the creation of Mayacamas Charter Middle School on Tuesday made their case before a new audience  the Napa County Office of Education.

More than two dozen parents and educators spoke out at the county office boards online public hearing to support Mayacamas appeal of the Napa Valley Unified School District boards denial of a school charter, which would allow the self-governing middle school to open this August inside a shuttered parochial school building in downtown Napa and operate for five years.

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Several parents attacked what they called the Napa districts hostility to schools not under its direct control, and called Mayacamas approval the best hope of providing a small-campus successor to River Middle School, a former charter that was merged into NVUSD in 2019 and that will close in June. (Its Salvador Avenue campus will be taken over in August by Unidos Middle School, a new English-Spanish academy.)

Redwood and Silverado may do a good job for many kids, but I believe there should be a small-school option for middle school, and right now there isnt, said Lauren Coodley, the mother and grandmother of former River students. I am shocked at the depth of opposition, at the hostility. When we started River, we got nothing but encouragement and support.

But as happened in the weeks before the Napa school board rejected Mayacamas Dec. 9, enthusiasm for the prospective grade 6-8 school  largely based on promises of smaller classes and a more nurturing teacher-student environment for preteens compared to larger campuses  was met with equally forceful pushback from skeptics of the project, including many of the NVUSD trustees who had vetoed it as financially shaky, sloppily planned and serving only a few hundred students at the risk of draining money from other campuses.

The decision to approve a charter school cannot be based on the wants of the few at the expense of the many, said trustee Robin Jankiewicz, who criticized the school plans revenue projections as over-optimistic. Schools must represent the entire community, not a fraction of the community based on subjective want.

Proponents of Mayacamas Charter Middle School file appeal with Office of Education, allege district analyses are flawed After NVUSD unanimously vetoed a petition to open the Mayacamas Charter Middle School earlier this month, those in support of the school have filed an appeal regarding the decision.

Tuesdays debate launched an appeal process by the county education office that will include a staff review of the Mayacamas plan to be published Feb. 28, followed by a board vote on March 15 to accept or deny the charter.

Mayacamas lead petitioners Lauren Daley and Jolene Yee are appealing the rejection of their charter to NCOE by using a California law that allows charter school applicants to bring their plans turned down by a local school district to a county educational board, and then to the state Board of Education if vetoed a second time.

Filed in September by the nonprofit Napa Foundation for Options in Education, the application calls for Mayacamas to open in August 2022 and lease the former St. John the Baptist Catholic School, which operated at 983 Napa St. until closing two years ago. Initial enrollment would be 180 students, gradually increasing to 336 by 2025-26, its fourth year.

The campaign to launch a new charter school took shape after NVUSD trustees in April voted to shutter both River and Harvest Middle School after the 2021-22 year. Petitioners, parents, and their allies have collected hundreds of signatures in support of the school, written letters to the editor, posted pro-Mayacamas signs, and shot a promotional video that was screened for the boards of both NVUSD and the county education office.

But a report compiled by NVUSD staff in November harshly criticized the Mayacamas plan, decrying its revenue and expense forecasts as too rosy and its expectation of rapid student body growth over-optimistic when local attendance numbers have steadily fallen since the mid-2010s. The 42-page evaluation also knocked what it called inadequate staffing and funding for English learners and special education, and branded its curriculum as too similar to the programs already offered elsewhere for grades 6-8.

Napa school board rejects proposed Mayacamas Charter Middle School NVUSD's seven trustees all voted against the petition, which would have created a self-governing middle school in time for the 2022-23 year.

Principals and teachers at NVUSDs existing middle schools joined in the push to block Mayacamas opening, predicting the drain of students into a charter campus would shrink the flow of state per-student funding and lead to teacher layoffs  and at a time when Napas mostly 1950s-era campuses face millions of dollars in upgrade costs in the coming years.

The charter also came in for criticism from some parents in American Canyon, who said Mayacamas downtown Napa location would shut out south county families unable to drive their children to school on the daily 18-mile round trip between the cities.

I find it inequitable and unfair for so many families who dont have the ability to commute to the school or benefit from the school, Karina Servente, a NVUSD worker and the mother of an American Canyon Middle School student, told the NCOE board.

However, several of Mayacamas supporters warned that a continued fight against the school and other charters threatens to drive more families to private schools or out of the school district, and asked for more acceptance from educators.

I think theres room for Mayacamas and the district to both thrive, said Stacy Barrett. Its feeling like an either-or, and Im not sure why.

Wendi Agans-Dominquez, the mother of a NVUSD student, objected to the opposition to a charter school by district educators as defending teacher and employee unions at the expense of families, calling them a political interest group fighting to maintain the power that they wield and Mayacamas creation as the last hope of retaining my family in NVUSD.

While Mayacamas future is debated, the Napa districts only operating charter school will remain Stone Bridge, a K-8 academy built around a low-technology Waldorf curriculum. Stone Bridge is in its first year at the former Mt. George Elementary campus in the Coombsville area after leaving behind its old location in Carneros, which was damaged by the earthquake of August 2014.
US President on Wednesday (local time) spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding Russia's continued military build-up on Ukraine's borders.

"The two leaders affirmed their support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and reviewed our ongoing coordination on both diplomacy and preparations to impose swift and severe economic costs on Russia should it further invade Ukraine," said the White House in a press release.

"President Biden and President Macron agreed their teams will stay in close touch, including in consultation with NATO Allies and EU partners, on our coordinated and comprehensive approach to managing these issues," the release added.

It came as the US Defence Department announced on Wednesday the extra US forces will deploy to Poland, Germany and Romania in the next several days.

The Defense Department is sending 2,000 US troops to Europe in the next several days in response to the crisis, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday.

Most of the 2,000 troops will be deployed in Poland and the deployment will be temporal, he said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The SNP government has been criticised for a 'crackpot' proposal to spend 300,000 cutting the bottom off classroom doors to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Scottish Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said there were an estimated 2,000 classrooms with 'problematic' ventilation where doors could be 'undercut to increase air flow'.

The proposal is part of a 4.3 million package to tackle 'persistently high C02 levels' in certain rooms.

In a letter to Holyrood's Education Committee, Ms Somerville set out the projected costs to improve air quality, including 1.6 million on air filters, 2.4 million for mechanical fans and 300,000 for doors to be 'undercut to increase air flow'.

Scottish Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said there were an estimated 2,000 classrooms with 'problematic' ventilation where doors could be 'undercut to increase air flow'

She stressed the costs, to be borne by an additional 5 million allocated for capital spending in schools, 'will vary significantly in practice' but are based on councils' estimates that between 2 per cent and 4 per cent of rooms have been found to be 'problematic spaces' where C02 levels are too high.

Ms Somerville's letter states: 'Based on informal local authority feedback, we expect that relatively only a very small number of learning, teaching or play spaces will have persistently high CO2 levels.

'Scottish Government guidance, based on the current weight of expert advice, is that the primary focus of mitigating activity should be on regular CO2 monitoring and associated remedial actions to improve ventilation (i.e. the introduction of fresh air into spaces).

The move by Nicola Sturgeon's SNP government was criticised as a 'crackpot' proposal by Meghan Gallacher, the Scottish Tories' Shadow Children's Minister

'Where this cannot be readily achieved, and CO2 readings remain high, air cleaning/filtration devices may exceptionally be used as a temporary mitigation to reduce risks in problematic spaces while more sustainable, ventilation-based solutions are implemented.

'The informal local authority feedback indicated that around 2-4% of spaces have so far fallen into that problematic category, equalling around 2,000 spaces out of 50,000 learning, teaching and play spaces across all local authority school and ELC settings.'

Meghan Gallacher, the Scottish Tories' Shadow Children's Minister, told The Telegraph: 'If this issue wasnt so serious, youd be hard pressed not to laugh at this crackpot SNP proposal.

Scottish Liberal Democrats education spokesman Willie Rennie said: 'Rather than putting an air filter in every classroom, the Education Secretary's solution is sending a handyman round to chop up classroom doors' Pictured: Pupils at Cleeves Primary School in Glasgow

'Is sawing off the bottom of classroom doors seriously Scottish Government policy to tackle the ventilation problem in classrooms?'

Scottish Liberal Democrats education spokesman Willie Rennie said: 'Rather than putting an air filter in every classroom, the Education Secretary's solution is sending a handyman round to chop up classroom doors.

'We are two years into the pandemic and three terms into this school year, but only now has the Scottish Government admitted there is a problem in thousands of classrooms. Yet this could only be the tip of the iceberg.

'We heard that Edinburgh Council found seven out of nine schools surveyed fell below air quality standards. The Government should publish the evidence from councils so we can judge the true scale of the problem.

'Opening windows in winter and chopping up doors is an insult to the thousands of teachers and pupils who deserve a better solution to the problems of ventilation.

'Air filters could play a long-term solution with cutting the spread of other infections and improving conditions for good learning.

'The Education Secretary should take ventilation more seriously and pick up the pace on finding proper solutions.'
President is ordering 2,000 US-based troops to Poland and Germany and shifting 1,000 more from Germany to Romania, demonstrating to both allies and foes America's commitment to NATO's eastern flank amid fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Pentagon said Thursday.

Russia fired back with a sharply worded objection, calling the deployments unfounded and destructive.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also had a new telephone exchange with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. But readouts from both governments showed no progress, with Putin saying the West was giving no ground on Russia's security concerns and Johnson expressing deep concern about Russia's hostile activity on the Ukrainian border, referring to Putin's buildup of 100,000 troops there.

The Biden administration is aiming to demonstrate US resolve without undermining efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis. Biden notably has not sent military reinforcements to the three Baltic countries on NATO's eastern flank Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania that are former states of the Soviet Union.

No US troops are being sent to Ukraine, and White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Wednesday said the administration has stopped calling a Russian invasion imminent, because that word implies Washington knows Putin has made a decision to invade. Officials say Putin's intentions remain unclear.

However, increasing US troop levels in Eastern is exactly what Putin has said he finds intolerable, along with the prospect of joining NATO. The US already has several thousand troops in Poland, and Romania is host to a NATO missile defense system that Russia considers a threat. The US presence in the region has increased since 2014 when Russia made its first invasion of .

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the soon-to-deploy US forces are intended to temporarily bolster U.S. and allied defensive positions.

These are not permanent moves, he said, stressing that the purpose is to reassure allies. Kirby said Russia had continued its buildup, even in the previous 24 hours, despite U.S. urgings that it deescalate.

In Moscow, a senior official said the US movements will complicate the crisis.

The unfounded destructive steps will only fuel military tensions and narrow the field for political decisions, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said in remarks carried by the Interfax news agency.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba again played down fears of a Russian attack in a call with reporters but said that if Russia makes moves that could signal an imminent invasion would react as necessary.

Of the 2,000 US troops newly deploying from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, about 1,700 are members of the 82nd Airborne Division infantry brigade, who will go to Poland. The other 300 are with the 18th Airborne Corps and will go to Germany as what the Pentagon called a joint task force-capable headquarters.

Poland's Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak wrote on Twitter that the deployment to his country is a strong signal of solidarity in response to the situation in Ukraine.

The 1,000 US troops going to Romania are members of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment based at Vilseck, Germany. They will augment about 900 already in Romania, Kirby said.

The cavalry deployment's purpose is to deter aggression and enhance our defensive capabilities in frontline allied states during this period of elevated risk, the Pentagon said in a separate written statement.

It's important that we send a strong signal to Mr Putin and to the world of the UScommitment to NATO, Kirby said.

He said France has decided it, too, will send troop reinforcements to Romania under NATO command, and he noted that a number of other European NATO countries are considering adding forces on NATO's eastern flank.

NATO has been beefing up its defenses around allies in Eastern since late last year. Denmark, for example, said it was sending a frigate and F-16 warplanes to Lithuania, and Spain was sending four fighter jets to Bulgaria and three ships to the Black Sea to join NATO naval forces. The Netherlands plans to send two F-35 fighter aircraft to Bulgaria in April and is putting a ship and land-based units on standby for NATO's Response Force.

Biden has said he will not put American troops in Ukraine to fight any Russian incursion, although the United States is supplying Ukraine with weapons to defend itself and seeking to reassure allies in Eastern that Washington will fulfill its treaty obligation to defend them in the event they are attacked.

Ukraine is not a NATO member, and therefore the US has no treaty obligation to come to its defense.

The military moves come amid stalled talks with Russia over its buildup at Ukraine's borders. And they underscore growing fears across Europe that Russian President Putin is poised to invade Ukraine. Smaller NATO countries on the alliance's eastern flank worry they could be next.

(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.)
By David Gaffen

NEW YORK (Reuters) -Oil prices surged in late-day trading Thursday, sending the U.S. crude benchmark through $90 a barrel for the first time since 2014 due to ongoing supply worries and as frigid weather cascades across the United States.

Global benchmark Brent crude settled at $91.11 a barrel, up $1.64, or 1.8%, while West Texas Intermediate crude soared $2.01, or 2.3%, higher to end at $90.27 a barrel, the first time the U.S. benchmark has closed above the $90-level since Oct.6, 2014.

Analysts attributed the late rally to growing concerns that extended cold weather could hit production in Texas, exacerbating the tightness in world crude markets.

More than 200,000 people have lost power across the United States due to the cold thus far, and recollections of Storm Ida a year ago that knocked out power to millions of Texans, remain at the fore.

"It's hysteria or a kind of fear," said Bob Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho. "In the last hour, the talk has started to drive (oil) higher."

The market was also watching developments between Russia and the West over the former's aggressive posture towards Ukraine.

The United States warned that Russia was planning to use a staged attack as justification for invading the neighboring nation. Russia's President Vladimir Putin has blamed NATO and the West for increased tensions, even as he has moved thousands of troops near to Ukraine's border.

"The tensions around the Ukraine conflict are providing support, and we have growing global demand and were not really ramping up supply to meet it," said Gary Cunningham, director of market research at Tradition Energy.

Crude benchmarks have been pointing upward for weeks on expectations that supply will tighten further even after OPEC+ producers stuck to planned moderate output increases. Demand remains on the upswing, with the Omicron coronavirus variant only temporarily denting consumption in major economies.

Story continues

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies led by Russia, known as OPEC+, this week agreed to stick to monthly increases of 400,000 barrels per day (bpd) in output despite pressure from consumers to raise supplies more quickly.

Goldman Sachs analysts forecast Brent topping $100 a barrel in the third quarter. The brokerage had predicted that OPEC+ may consider a faster unwinding of its production cuts.

Several OPEC members are struggling to pump more despite prices being at seven-year highs.

Iraq pumped 4.16 million bpd of oil in January, below its limit of 4.28 million bpd under the OPEC+ deal, data from state-owned marketer SOMO seen by Reuters showed.

Analysts have looked to United States output as a salve, though production slipped to 11.5 million bpd in the most recent week, and is far off the 2019 record of 12.3 million bpd, according to federal data.

ConocoPhillips Chief Executive Ryan Lance, however, said high prices may lead U.S. oil producers to add production too quickly, leading to oversupply.

"If we are getting back to the level of growth in the U.S." comparable to the 2014-2015 shale boom, said Lance, and "you're not worried about it, you should be," he told investors during a conference call.

(Additional reporting by Roslan Khasawneh in SingaporeEditing by Marguerita Choy and Kirsten Donovan)
The UN Security Council called Thursday for an immediate cessation of violence throughout as the country's military coup entered a second year, and it reaffirmed support for the country's democratic transition and democratic institutions.

The UN's most powerful body also reiterated its call for the release of all those who remain arbitrarily detained, including Aung San Suu Kyi, whose elected government was ousted by the military on Feb 1, 2021.

In a statement approved by all 15 members, the council expressed deep concern at the continuing state of emergency imposed by Myanmar's military rulers a year ago and the dramatic increase in humanitarian need, particularly among women, children and vulnerable groups, against the backdrop of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The first anniversary of the coup on Wednesday was marked by a nationwide strike, protests and sporadic violence across the country. Several pro-military demonstrations, widely believed to have been organized by the authorities, were also held.

Widespread nonviolent demonstrations followed the army's seizure of power and ouster of Suu Kyi, whose National League for party was about to begin a second term in office after winning a landslide election victory. After the protests were put down with lethal force by the military, armed resistance arose..

About 1,500 civilians have been killed, but the government has been unable to suppress the opposition, which has spread across the country.

Noeleen Heyzer, the new UN special envoy for Myanmar, said Monday that violence and brutality have intensified since the military took power, sparking the resistance movement, and all sides have hardened their positions on using violence as a solution.

She said in a virtual news conference that Myanmar's situation is increasingly unstable and military operations, including artillery attacks and airstrikes, have raised concerns about the protection of civilians.

Since the end of December, Heyzer said, the number of internally displaced people rose from more than 320,000 to over 400,000. This is in addition to the 340,000 people already displaced before Feb 1, 2021, she said.

The Security Council expressed deep concern at further recent violence in the country and expressed alarm at the large number of internally displaced persons.

Members condemned attacks on infrastructure, including health and education facilities.

They called for an immediate cessation of all forms of violence throughout the country and to ensure the safety of civilians, the statement said.

The Security Council underlined the need to urgently step-up humanitarian aid and facilitate the unhindered delivery of COVID-19 vaccines.

Council members also reiterated their full support for the role of the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations in facilitating a peaceful solution and reiterated their calls for swift implementation of ASEAN's five-point consensus adopted last April that includes an immediate halt to violence, starting a dialogue among all parties.

(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.)
Craig James, former clerk of the British Columbia legislature, leaves B.C. Supreme Court during a break from his trial in Vancouver on Jan. 26, 2022. James has pleaded not guilty to two counts of fraud over $5,000 and three counts of breach of trust by a public officer. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Oil prices edged up on Wednesday after OPEC+ stuck to planned moderate output increases despite pressure from top consumers to raise output more quickly.

Brent crude ended settling up 31 cents to $89.47 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained 6 cents to $88.26 a barrel.

Global benchmark Brent has remained within striking distance of $90 for several days now, buoyed by ongoing concerns about tight supply across major world producers and steadily increasing demand. On Friday, both benchmarks hit their highest since October 2014, with Brent touching $91.70 and U.S. crude hitting $88.84.

The market has been unable to push higher, leading analysts to believe sellers have been jumping in to take profits at these levels despite bullish fundamentals. In a Wednesday note, Bank of America analysts said the market was vulnerable to short-term pullbacks after the year's gains so far.

"There's a lot of resistance up near $90, so we saw some profit taking," said Phil Flynn, analyst at Price Futures Group in Chicago.

U.S. crude stockpiles fell by 1 million barrels last week, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said, against expectations for an increase, while distillate inventories also dropped amid strong demand both domestically and in export . [EIA/S]

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies including Russia - known as OPEC+ - stuck with previously agreed-upon plans to boost output by 400,000 barrels per day. The group, however, is struggling to meet existing targets, and wary of responding to calls on its strained capacity for more crude from top consumers to cap surging prices.

The group has blamed rising prices on the failure of consuming nations to ensure adequate investment in fossil fuels as they shift to greener energy.

Several OPEC+ sources also said prices were pushed up by Russia-U.S. tensions that have fanned fears that energy supplies to Europe could be disrupted. Washington has accused Moscow of planning to invade Ukraine, which Russia, the world's second-largest oil producer, denies.

The United States said on Wednesday it will send nearly 3,000 troops to Poland and Romania in the coming days to reinforce Eastern European NATO allies as the alliance continues to engage in diplomatic efforts with Russian President Vladimir Putin to defuse the crisis.

A major winter storm is expected to wallop much of the central United States and stretch to parts of the Northeast this week, bringing heavy snow, freezing rain and ice, the National Weather Service said. The storm comes days after a deadly winter blast and could boost prices of oil, especially as some regions substitute out natural gas where supply may be scarce.

(Reporting by David Gaffen; Additional reporting by Julia Payne and Noah Browning; Editing by Marguerita Choy and Will Dunham)

(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.)
Feb. 2FRANKFORT, Ky.  Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of a major winter storm expected to hit Kentucky Wednesday night through Friday morning, producing significant amounts of rain, sleet, snow and ice. A winter weather warning is in place across much of the commonwealth.

The powerful winter storm is expected to create difficult travel conditions on major interstates as well as state and local roadways. Tree damage and power outages may occur given the impacts from ice and wind. Snowfall of 1-2 inches is expected in northwestern and Northern Kentucky.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the National Weather Service had issued a flood watch for Whitley and Knox counties Thursday morning through Friday morning with 2 to 3.5 inches of rain and winter weather advisory from 1 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday with mixed precipitation expected. It said up to one inch of snow and sleet accumulations and one to two tenths of an inch of ice are possible.

Laurel County had a winter storm warning in effect from 10 a.m. Thursday to 10 a.m. Friday with total snow and sleet accumulations of one tenth to three tenths of an inch.

The National Weather Service at Louisville issued an ice storm warning for the Jackson Purchase and Pennyrile regions and most of the rest of Kentucky north of the Cumberland Parkway. Ice accumulations are expected to range from 0.25 to 0.75 inches.

A Flood Watch has been issued for portions of Central Kentucky from Thursday morning through late Thursday night, as the area is expected to receive 2.5-3.5 inches of rain.

The Governor also issued an executive order to protect Kentuckians from price gouging that can occur during an emergency with goods and services like gasoline, food and household items. This order activates the state laws that prohibit price gouging, and Kentuckians should report it to the Office of the Attorney General at 1-888-432-9257 or ag.ky.gov/pricegouging.

State Offices Closed Thursday

Story continues

After declaring a state of emergency, Gov. Beshear said he was closing state office buildings Thursday, Feb. 3, to help keep thousands of employees off dangerous roadways.

"Freezing roadways are extremely dangerous," Gov. Beshear said. "I am closing all state office buildings and asking Kentuckians to stay off the roadways if possible, so crews can continue plowing and clearing roads."

State employees should refer to guidance issued by the Kentucky Personnel Cabinet. If state employees have questions regarding the closure, they should contact their agency's management or human resources office.

Emergency Management Response

Kentucky Emergency Management has activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) and personnel from the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), Kentucky State Police (KSP) and Kentucky Department for Public Health are monitoring the situation from the SEOC.

"The approaching storm front is forecast to be one of the most dangerous events in our recent history of record-breaking disasters, due to the possibilities of heavy icing accumulations. Please make every effort to stay off of all local and interstate roadways, as travel will be extremely hazardous and rescue efforts for stranded motorists will severely limit first responder capabilities," said Michael Dossett, Director of Kentucky Emergency Management.

KYTC, KSP and the Kentucky National Guard are actively preparing for the storm and will be ready to respond.

The Adjutant General of Kentucky Maj. Gen. Haldane B. Lamberton said, "Working with Kentucky Emergency Management, we have soldiers and airmen on standby to enable a quick and effective response to the commonwealth so that we may help those most in need."

KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said highway crews are as prepared as they can be: "They will do everything possible to keep roadways passable, but we advise everyone who can do so to stay off the road."

The storm system began as rain, so roadways can't be pretreated with brine and rock salt, because it would wash away. The Governor asked Kentuckians, if possible, to avoid travel as hazardous road conditions are expected.

KYTC asked for cooperation and partnership of the public, with four specific requests:

Limit travel to what's necessary when snow and ice are on the roads;

Give snow plows and crew members plenty of room on the road;

Ensure personal vehicles are winter ready, with the recommendation of keeping an emergency kit in vehicles; and

Mask up to slow the spread of COVID-19 and help protect against the quarantine of plow crews essential to roadway treatment.

Stay up to date by visiting SnowKy.ky.gov for snow and ice information and GoKY.ky.gov for traffic and roadway information.

The Governor also urged Kentuckians to follow the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on preventing carbon monoxide exposure and safety tips to prepare for and cope with the loss of power. Best practices when using a generator include:

Never have a generator near your home or in your garage;

If you feel ill, call 911;

Never leave your vehicle running in your garage; and

Never use a charcoal grill or portable camping stoves inside your home.
A $20,000 National Endowment for the Arts grant awarded to Bennett College will help the school stage the inaugural Black Lives Matter Theater Festival.

The festival will take place over four weeks in April and early May. Theater faculty members from Bennett have teamed up with theater departments from seven other local schools to organize the event.

The grant will help fund the productions, and were able to really build the productions and promote them, said Tennille Foust, festival co-chair, and associate professor of theater at Bennett College. And we hope eventually it will grow and be like the National Black Theatre Festival (in Winston-Salem), where you have workshops and training. This is something inspiring for our students, and we hope more colleges will want to be involved.

The grant was one of 1,248 awarded last month through the NEAs Grants for Arts Projects program to schools, arts organizations, community groups and individuals around the country.

The grants ranged from $10,000 to $100,000. Nationally, they totaled about $28 million.

The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support arts projects like this one from Bennett College that help support the communitys creative economy, NEA acting chair Ann Eilers said in a news release. Bennett College in Greensboro, N.C. is among the arts organizations nationwide that are using the arts as a source of strength, a path to well-being, and providing access and opportunity for people to connect and find joy through the arts.

Foust said the idea for the festival came about from discussions she had with Anne Hayes, executive director of Global and Interdisciplinary Studies at Bennett.

We wanted to do something to promote and get the word out about Black Lives Matter, she said. So we decided we would contact some area colleges to put together a series of plays that dealt with African American issues Emails were sent out, and the responses came right back  I would love to be involved, I would love to be involved, I would love to be involved. Everyone we reached out to was all for it.

The festival will commence on April 8 at Bennetts Little Theater with a production of Mend A City: The Movement, which combines music and spoken word performances dealing with the history of the African American experience. N.C. A&T and Bennett acting instructor Vanecia Boone co-wrote the show and will direct.

The festival will also feature a production of Periphery, a play by Ed Simpson, retired chair of the Theater Department at High Point University; and Nick and the Prizefighter, a play by UNCG alum Kamilah Bush.

The festival will conclude with a production of Ma Raineys Black Bottom, directed by N.C. A&T theater professor Miller Lucky Jr. The show will run from April 28 to May 1 at A&Ts Paul Robeson Theatre.

A kickoff gala will also take place on March 23 at Bennetts Global Learning Center.

Personnel from the various schools involved in the festival will have a hand in staging each of the shows.

Thats the beauty of it, Foust said. We always want to make sure our students are receiving a wide-ranging education. And the students being able to work at different universities with different directors, that will broaden their horizons.

Foust said she sees the festival as an opportunity to come together for something bigger than us.

Right now its important to show that we can come together despite the challenges that life is throwing at us, she said. And I pray that people walk away with a better understanding of how important Black lives are, and that we can build and grow and learn from each other.
Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles Sheriff's Department officers pay respects at the memorial service of LAPD Officer Fernando Arroyos in Los Angeles on Feb. 2, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Off-Duty LAPD Officer Killed in Street Robbery Laid to Rest by Family, City Leaders

LOS ANGELESA funeral service was held on Feb. 2 at Forest LawnHollywood Hills for Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Officer Fernando Arroyos, who was shot and killed in a street robbery while off duty last month.

The funeral was held outside by the Hall of Liberty Mosaic Deck and joined by families, friends, and hundreds of police officers.

City leaders who mourned at the service to share condolences and support for Arroyoss family included Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, LAPD Chief Michel Moore, Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva, Los Angeles City Council President Nury Martinez, and Police Commission President William Briggs.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and Los Angeles Sheriffs Department officers pay respects at the memorial service of LAPD Officer Fernando Arroyos in Los Angeles on Feb. 2, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

When a police officer is killed, its not just their family and the partners who suffer, but in our community a tear and a lasting scar occurs in the very fabric of our society, Moore said. Fernando  [was] establishing a solid foundation as a young officer in this department. He also demonstrated his commitment to make his community a better place.

Moore also said Arroyos is the 237th LAPD officer killed in the line of duty.

Garcetti commemorated Arroyos as a man with character and told his mother that she is an exceptional mother who raised a boy who became a hero to the city, not because he sought fame or fortune but because he sought to serve the community that you gave him.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and Los Angeles Sheriffs Department officers pay respects at the memorial service of LAPD Officer Fernando Arroyos in Los Angeles on Feb. 2, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

An honor graduate of the University of CaliforniaBerkeley, the 27-year-old Arroyos had served LAPD for three years and was assigned to the Olympic Division.

On Jan. 10, Arroyos and his girlfriend were house-hunting in the 1700 block of East 87th Street in South Los Angeles. While they were crossing the street, three men and a woman got out of a car and attempted to rob them at gunpoint.

As Arroyos directed his girlfriend to a safe place, the men already opened fire on him. He managed to return fire and shot one of the suspects. However, he succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.

Arroyos is survived by his mother, father, grandfather, girlfriend, and stepfather.

All the suspects were found to be associated with Florencia 13 gang, according to the United States Department of Justice.

Luis Alfredo De La Rosa Rios, 29, also known as Lil J

Ernesto Cisneros, 22, also known as Gonzo

Jesse Contreras, 34, also known as Skinny Jack or Flaco

Haylee Marie Grisham, 18, Rios girlfriend

Currently, all four people have been taken into custody and were charged with violating a federal racketeering statute. Rios and Contreras are set to be arraigned on Feb. 3, Grisham on Feb. 7, and Cisneros on Feb. 10 in Los Angeles federal court.
Stock Market SymbolsGIB.A (TSX)GIB (NYSE)cgi.com/newsroom

MONTREAL, Feb. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - CGI (TSX: GIB.A) (NYSE: GIB) held its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. (EST) via live webcast.

All 16 directors proposed for election at the meeting were elected by shareholders on a vote by electronic ballot. The ballots cast and proxies received by CGI for the election of directors were as follows:

Votes for Votes withheld % % Alain Bouchard 99.52% 0.48% George A. Cope 99.48% 0.52% Paule Dore 93.75% 6.25% Julie Godin 99.12% 0.88% Serge Godin 99.04% 0.96% Andre Imbeau 99.50% 0.50% Gilles Labbe 99.42% 0.58% Michael B. Pedersen 99.82% 0.18% Stephen S. Poloz 99.81% 0.19% Mary G. Powell 99.48% 0.52% Alison C. Reed 99.81% 0.19% Michael E. Roach 99.61% 0.39% George D. Schindler 99.65% 0.35% Kathy N. Waller 99.68% 0.32% Joakim Westh 99.13% 0.87% Frank Witter 99.63% 0.37%

About CGI Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 82,000 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2021 reported revenue is $12.13 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cgi-reports-director-election-results-301474453.html

SOURCE CGI Inc.
Tourism could rebound this summer in Albany if recent trends hold, new hotel occupancy tax reports suggest.

Albany's Manager of Economic Development Seth Sherry shared his thoughts on the prospect with the Transient Lodging Tax Advisory Committee on Tuesday, Feb. 1.

Tourism is an important part of the city's bottom line, as the city collects a fee each time someone spends the night in a hotel or Airbnb.

Climbing back up

Between July and November last year, the city took in around $586,000 in lodging tax revenue, which is about 75% of pre-pandemic revenues, Sherry reported. He hopes the upswing continues over the summer.

"It's very encouraging to see that people are active and have been out and revenue came in higher, at least in the first quarter," Sherry said.

A major exporter of grass seed, Albany's leisure and hospitality industry employed 3,088 people, or more than one out of 10 workers in 2019, according to the Oregon Employment Department.

From 2011 to 2019, the city's lodging tax revenue increased by an average of 8% per year. But by June 2020, revenue plunged by more than 25% below 2017 levels amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Transient lodging taxes are collected each quarter from providers like hotels to Airbnbs, at the state, county and municipal level. The state's lodging tax rate is 1.5%, 3% in Linn County and 9% in Albany.

Touting tourism

The revenue goes towards tourist-related promotional programs sponsored by local government, which covers the costs of advertisement and grants.

That money is the lifeblood of local agencies like the Albany's Visitors Association tasked with bringing in tourists. Besides writing Albany's official tourist guide online and in print, the agency helps sell the city to travelers, Executive Director Rebecca Bond said.

"We try to provide incentive for them to go everywhere and stay longer," Bond said. "If we can tell them about McDowell Creek Falls or the Willamette National Forest in Sweet Home, it helps encourage people to come and explore the great outdoors all year long."

Since June, Albany reported $807,799 in lodging tax revenue, which is an increase of 3.9% above its 2020 figures and 9% below 2019 levels.

Sherry told the Transient Lodging Tax committee on Tuesday the City Council may have less money to spend on programs than it may hope.

"There are encumbrances or obligations of revenue that go well beyond the first quarter," Sherry said. "So it's not as if it's just all extra money sitting around."

Sherry said the Albany City Council should shore up its lodging tax reserves, which were devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The committee decided to recommend the city restore reserves to its pre-pandemic level of $100,000.

Federal data shows 745 businesses in Albany received more than $61 million in loans through the Paycheck Protection Program to date. But less than $250,000 of that money went to hotels, according to federal databases.

On the ground(s) opinion

Separate from the meeting, Renee Hoskins, who runs Studio 6 Suites in Albany with her husband, said the city should throw more lodging tax money into the kind of marketing campaigns she sees in Oregon wine country, such as Marion County.

"I think more ads are more important than anything else," Hoskins said. "The thing about the service industry is you depend on the public more than anyone else."

Hoskins has run the extended stay motel in Albany for the past three years since she and her husband, who live in Wilsonville, entered the industry. She said their biggest problem now is finding workers, not taxes.

"I post ads on Facebook and Craigslist, and no one responds," Hoskins said. "Money is always tight, but the problem now is no one wants to work."

Transient Lodging Tax Advisory Committee member Pam Silbernagel shared her peers' optimism on Tuesday that the positive lodging tax numbers could reshape the next budget debate at City Hall.

"I think these numbers show us that we're back to normal," Silbernagel said. "And I think that changes our conversation about the budget."

The Transient Lodging Tax Advisory Committee members said on Tuesday they expect to hold their next meeting this summer.
Australian Christian School Revokes Statement on Gender, Sexuality Amid Heightened Pressure

An Australian Christian school has withdrawn its contract containing a declaration of faith on gender and sexuality amid two government probes and fierce criticism from the community and politicians, including the prime minister.

Citipointe Christian College, in Brisbane, had sent a contract to parents last Friday which stated the college will only enrol the student on the basis of the gender that corresponds to their biological sex and that sexual immorality, such as homosexuality, bestiality, incest and paedophilia, was sinful.

In a video message to parents on Tuesday, Principal Brian Mulherin argued a legitimate exercise of religious freedom is not discrimination but a feature of an open society. He said since the College was established for religious purposes, it has the freedom to maintain our Christian ethos and provide families with an education based on our shared beliefs.

However, following combined pressure from the Human Rights Commission, the governments non-state accreditation board, the Education Minister and the Prime Minister, Mulherin said families will no longer be asked to sign the contract for their children to be enrolled.

We deeply regret that some students feel that they would be discriminated against because of their sexuality or gender identity, and I apologise to them and their families on behalf of the College, Mulherin announced in a statement on Thursday morning.

As stated previously, the College does not and will not discriminate against any student because of their sexuality or gender identity.

It is central to our faith that being gay or transgender in no way diminishes a persons humanity or dignity in Gods eyes.

But the Principal also noted it is deeply distressing that some of the students at the College have been vilified in the community simply for their religious beliefs or because they attend the College.

Mulherin added that by withdrawing the contract, he hoped people could return their focus to the schools Christian education.

Every individual is created equal in the image of God and should be treated with compassion, love, kindness, respect and dignity, he said.

Our society gives freedom to people to be a part of groups with shared beliefs As a College established for religious purposes, we will continue to provide an education based on our shared beliefs.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaks about his management of the pandemic at the National Press Club in Canberra, Australia, on Feb. 1, 2022. (Rohan Thomson/Getty Images)

Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison told B105 Radio that he did not support the contract but that the school was not in breach of the current federal law.

My kids go to a Christian school here in Sydney, and I wouldnt want my school doing that either, he said.

Under the current religious discrimination bill, which is debated in Parliament this week, religious people are allowed to make statements of belief while faith-based schools can hire teachers and select students based on the schools religious beliefs.

Education Minister Grace Grace, who has a non-binary child, told The Epoch Times on Wednesday that the school should do the Christian thing and withdraw this hurtful enrolment contract immediately.

We have freedom of religion in this country, but as the Queensland Human Rights Commissioner has said, schools cannot contract out of their duties under discrimination laws by asking parents or students to agree to discriminatory terms, Grace said.

Meanwhile, a petition by the Australian Christian Lobby calling for support for the College has gathered over 27,000 signatures by Feb. 3, with the organiser saying, Christian schools must be able to maintain their biblical values and hire staff who affirm and model those values.

Lyle Shelton, director of the Christian Democratic Party, said although Christianity holds that its adherents should turn the other cheek, being gracious does not mean abandoning the speaking of truth in the public square.

We must also defend children against the harmful gender fluid and sexual expressionist ideology that is now being forced upon even Christian schools, he wrote on Facebook on Wednesday.

The attack by a small group of LGBTIQ+ activists and the mainstream media on Citipointe Christian College is an attack on every faithful Christian in Australia.
KOLKATA: West Bengal government has allowed the schools and colleges to reopen for classes 8 to 12 from Thursday (February 3, 2022) as the Covid-19 pandemic situation has improved in the state.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, while addressing a press conference earlier, had said that colleges, universities and polytechnic institutes will reopen from February 3, 2022.

Everything cannot be shut down indefinitely, Banerjee told a press conference after a Cabinet meeting. Covid-19 cases have now decreased. Therefore, it has been decided to open schools, colleges and universities in the state on the basis of discussions with the state education department, she added.

She, however, said, "We will decide on reopening primary schools later." Banerjee said the COVID-19 situation in the state has improved a lot, because of which certain relaxations are being given.

Open-air sessions for students up to class 7 from Feb 7

While schools in West Bengal will reopen for classes eight to 12 from Thursday, the state government has issued a notification for holding open air learning sessions from pre-primary level up to class seven in every locality from February 7 due to the pandemic situation.

The project named 'Paray Sikshalay' (education centre at your locality) will have segments like honing up vocabulary and numerical skills, storytelling, rhymes, song and dance as well as classes in respective subjects, the notification issued by school education department said.

Classes there will be held in two halves - from 11 am to 1 pm and between 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm - maintaining Covid safety rules, according to the notification issued on Tuesday.

Education Minister Bratya Basu earlier said 50,159 schools will be involved in the 'Paray Sikshalay' project in which classes will be held on open grounds adjacent to school buildings. Over two lakh regular teachers and 21,000 para-teachers (contractual teachers) will impart education to children there.

Around 60 lakh students would be benefited from the project, he said.

"In the COVID situation we realise a large number of students at many schools, especially in rural areas, are being deprived of classroom teaching which is impeding their growth. Our initiative will enable students to attend classes in the open space in their own locality. It has been hailed by UNESCO, he had said.

Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad state president Trinankur Bhattacharya, however, said this unique initiative of the state government will benefit the students of lower classes who cannot immediately attend offline classes in buildings due to the pandemic situation.

Meanwhile, the state government has also announced the easing of norms for zoos, parks and museums and tourist attractions. From Thursday, popular tourist spots like s zoos, museums and parks can operate at 75 per cent capacity.

The government also said there would be no restrictions on incoming flights from any city in the country, except Bengaluru, subject to the condition that the passenger is either fully vaccinated or has got an RT-PCR Test conducted within 72 hours of the flights departure.

Also, incoming domestic flights from Bengaluru will be allowed to land on state airports only thrice a week  Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Live TV
This is not normal

This week the leader of the GOP told voters that if reelected, he would pardon the Jan. 6 domestic terrorists who stormed the Capitol, attacked police and threatened to hang his vice president.

He still claims he won the election and encouraged his supporters to organize Jan. 6-style protests in all our largest cities.

The current GOP U.S. Senate frontrunner from North Carolina, Ted Budd, supports this behavior. The defeated president endorsed Budd because Budd voted with his leader to nullify the result of the last election.

A former GOP speaker of the House called for the arrest of bipartisan House committee members investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection.

Congressman Madison Cawthorn, R-N.C., called those Jan. 6 rioters political hostages and warned there could be bloodshed and that he would pick up arms on their behalf.

Another GOP senator claimed that any Black, female Supreme Court appointee would be solely based upon affirmative action.

Finally, Republicans defended a Fox News host who proudly sided with the Russian dictator preparing to invade our democratic ally.

Does anyone else think this is nuts? This isnt the party of Lincoln or Reagan! This is no longer about politics. This cannot be normalized. These people threaten our way of life.

Brad Schamp

Archdale

Womens Hospital

I, as others, was surprised and disappointed to read that the former Womens Hospital is being torn down. What a loss to simply destroy such a nice-looking, well-built building.

The major question I have is this: Why could this former hospital not have been made into housing for the homeless? The rooms with baths and closets, and probably also with remaining beds and chairs, would have required little modification to provide good housing for people desperately needing housing at this time.

I hope we will see an answer to this question soon.

Margaret Griffin

Greensboro

Ballot power

The New North Carolina Project (NNCP) is a nonpartisan inspired by Stacey Abrams work in Georgia. In 2020, nearly 1 million eligible voters of color did not vote. I am volunteering with NNCP because its goal is to invest in communities of color and help voters to determine what they need from political representatives, not the other way around.

Think about what you want from North Carolinas members of Congress. I want improved access to health care, equitable school funding, an increase in the minimum wage, stronger environmental laws and truly nonpartisan voting districts. Im tired, but not hopeless.

People often struggle with too little information, time and money. When my children were little, I worked two jobs and went into debt to cover our health care. I often could not find information about where and how to vote, and who the candidates were. That should not be.

Together with NNCP and its partner organizations, voters can learn more about the issues and candidates, and make voting easier and more accessible. Step up to volunteer at newnorthcarolinaproject.org.

Weve got to gain the ballot, and through that gain political power.  Martin Luther King, Jr.

Claire Stone

Stoneville

Fearmongers

Regarding todays front page (Feb. 1): Reporters and the News & Record staff must love the photos of N95 mask handouts to keep people on edge and living in fear. That is un-American. We are a nation that overcomes obstacles instead of surrendering to hyped hysteria.

There are good reports available on whats going on in the Triad other than the daily COVID frenzy  promoted primarily by the media. You can do better!

Larry Wilgus

Jamestown

No suppression

Columns like Byron Williams on voting rights (Voting rights: A valid and necessary decision, Jan. 30) really appeal to the low-information voters. No one is trying to take away anyones legal right to vote, just trying to secure the vote of those legally entitled.

Liberal hacks in the media saying otherwise is the real disinformation.

Tom Ozment

Jamestown

Credit where due

I enjoyed the recent guest essay about Greensboro monuments by Joanna Winston Foley (Minding our monuments: Heres what Greensboro should add to its storied roster of historic tributes). It seems quite an oversight, however, that no credit accompanied the pictured sculptures.

Francis H. Packer was the artist who created the equestrian statue of Nathanael Greene at the national military park, and James (Jim) Barnhill produced both the statue of Gen. Greene downtown as well as the Greensboro Four at N.C. A&T. I hope this omission will be noted in a future issue.

Jodie Johnson

Greensboro
In this Jan. 6, 2021 file photo, Aaron Mostofsky, right, walk down the stairs outside the Senate Chamber in the U.S. Capitol, in Washington. AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta

The son of a Brooklyn judge pleaded guilty to three Capitol riot charges on Wednesday.

Aaron Mostofsky stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021, dressed in furs and a stolen police vest.

Prosecutors said he gave an interview from inside the Capitol claiming the election as stolen.

A Brooklyn judge's son who stormed the Capitol adorned in furs and a stolen Capitol Police riot vest pleaded guilty Wednesday to three charges related to his role in the insurrection.

Aaron Mostofsky, 35, the son of Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Steven Mostofsky, was arrested in January 2021, after investigators identified him in multiple media appearances from the siege.

Prosecutors said Mostofsky took a bus from New York to Washington DC to attend former President Donald Trump's "Stop the Steal" rally on January 6, 2021. According to investigators, Mostofsky joined several other rioters in overtaking a line of police officers and breaching the Capitol.

In a video interview with The New York Post inside the Capitol building, Mostofsky claimed the election was stolen, according to charging documents.

"I don't think 75 million people voted for Trump," he told The Post, according to prosecutors. "I think it was close to 85 million."

In the video, Mostofsky can be seen carrying a Capitol Police riot shield and wearing a Capitol Police officer's bulletproof vest, according to court records. Mostofsky told the outlet that he found the items on the floor and took them. According to the federal government, the bulletproof vest is valued at $1,905, and the shield cost $256.65.

The FBI also obtained messages in which Mostofsky told his friend who was also in DC for the rally to "look for a guy looking like a caveman."

He added: "Even a caveman knows [the election] was stolen."

Prosecutors also found past messages from Mostofsky's Facebook page where he proposed rioting after Republicans lost the House of Representatives in the 2018 mid-term elections.

Story continues

He faces up to seven years in prison after pleading guilty to one count each of civil disorder, theft of government property, and entering and remaining in a restricted building.

The civil disorder charge is a felony carrying a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison and a possible fine of $250,000, while both misdemeanor charges carry a possible sentence of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine, according to the Department of Justice.

Mostofsky was initially indicted on eight charges, including obstructing an official proceeding, which carries a possible penalty of 20 years in prison.

Mostofsky is set to be sentenced on May 6.

An attorney for the defendant did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Insider also reached out to contacts appearing to belong to Steven Mostofsky for comment.

More than 760 people have been arrested in connection with the Capitol riot and more than 175 have pleaded guilty.

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Massive Venice Beach Affordable Housing Project Back up for a Vote After Council Rescinds Its Approval

LOS ANGELESCity officials are pushing to expand affordable housing projects amid a homelessness crisis gripping the states neighborhoods and coastal towns, but some of them are being countered with lawsuits and outcry from residents who say affordable housing will only attract more homeless.

A handful of Venice Beach residents called into a special Los Angeles City Council meeting on Feb. 2 in opposition to a massive affordable housing unit project that is back up for a vote after a filing mishap, despite it being approved in December.

The changes outlined in the motion are significant errors that should have been caught in the process prior to final approval, one resident who called into the meeting said. The so-called correct set of exhibits to the benefit land use plan havent been seen by you or us the public. This is yet another fundamental flaw in this process.

The 100-percent affordable housing project, dubbed the Reese-Davidson Community Project, will be replacing a parking lot along the Venice Canals with a three-acre, 68-unit permanent supportive housing for the homeless, with 34 units for low-income earning artists and 34 units for all other low-income households.

The total estimated cost of the project is $75 million, or roughly $535,000 per unit, and would house up to 420 people.

Funding will come from multiple sources including the citys housing trust fund and the states Infill Infrastructure Grant Program, according to Venice Community Housing, one of the groups behind constructing the project.

Venice Beach currently has the most homeless people living on its streets after Skid Rowroughly 2,000according to the most recent count. The small, eccentric community was thrust into the national spotlight last summer when the sheriffs department and city officials conducted a cleanup of nearly 200 encampments that appeared on the famed boardwalk.

The city of Los Angeles has 41,000 homeless people, and the next homeless for 2021 count is slated for later this month. Homelessness is among the top issues for Angeleno voters this year, with 94 percent deeming it a very serious problem, according to a poll conducted by the Los Angeles Business Council in November.

The motion for the affordable housing project was initially passed by counselors on Dec. 1 in a 120 decision, but the action was rescinded on Feb. 2 after the city attorney requested a second vote because the planning department left out maps and other items on the councils file management system that should have been present during the December vote.

The Los Angeles City Council holds a special meeting on Feb. 2, 2022. (Screenshot)

Venice Beachs councilman, Mike Bonin of District 11, said the annulment of the councils previous approval is to make sure we are protected against an impending lawsuit filed by the Coalition for Safe Coastal Development in January, a nonprofit made up of Venice community members concerned about the environmental impact of new developments in the region.

The coalition filed litigation against the city of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Department of Transportation, Hollywood Community Housing Corporation, and Venice Community Housing Corporation in early January, alleging California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and other violations.

Venice Community Housing said the project, which would replace two city-owned parking lots and include the demolition of an existing one-story duplex, received a CEQA exemption because it is affordable housing. Under the 2019 passing of AB 1157, affordable housing construction in the city is streamlined for a faster approval process, permitting it to bypass traditional CEQA inspections until 2025.

But city officials are still facing legal threats from local activists who strongly oppose the Reese-Davidson Community Project. Local group Fight Back, Venice! refers to the project as the Venice Monster on its website.

When the project was being considered last year, the Planning Land Use Management Committee (PLUM) waived consideration of the item on Nov. 9, according to the city attorneys office. PLUM usually reviews any issues pertaining to the construction of new or existing developments in Los Angeles.

Residents took issue with the committees waiving, with one saying you would hope by the time a project goes to council it has been fully vetted.

This is not the case as the PLUM hearing was waived by Mr. Bonin, the resident said.

Its unclear why the hearing was waived, and Bonins office did not respond to a request for comment.

Bonin, who is not running for reelection this year after defeating a recall attempt, defended the project and said the units will be replacing a parking lot with housing for people who are homeless and low-income artists in Venice.

There is a history of litigation against any homeless housing on the west side, and out of an abundance of caution, the city attorney recognized that we needed to vote on this a second time, Bonin said during the meeting.

To those who have calledif you dont want encampments, you need housing.

But some residents have told The Epoch Times theyre concerned that Venice is becoming one of LAs containment zones for the homeless at the expense of taxpayers, as Bonin does not enforce restricting encampments and other city codes that other districts enforce.

Please step back and take a good look at this project. It is not a housing solution but an ill-conceived project with reckless use of taxpayer funds, another resident who called into the meeting said.

The next date to vote on the Reese-Davidson Community Project has not been announced yet.

The motion will be sent to the Los Angeles Planning Commission and the mayor for review and consideration before it returns to the council for a second vote.
SYDNEY (AP)  Australian maritime experts said Thursday they believed they've found the wreck of one of the most important ships in the history of the South Pacific after it was scuttled in the U.S. more than 200 years ago.

But archaeologists in the U.S. quickly countered by saying the findings were premature and a breach of contract in their joint research.

For 22 years, maritime archaeologists have been investigating several ancient shipwrecks in a 2-square-mile area of Newport Harbor, Rhode Island. That's where James Cook's HMS Endeavour was believed to have been deliberately sunk by the British during the American Revolution.

Cook had earlier sailed the ship around the South Pacific in a pioneering voyage before landing on the east coast of Australia in 1770.

On Thursday morning, Kevin Sumption, the chief executive of the Australian National Maritime Museum, held a news conference in Sydney after alerting media that he'd be making a major historic maritime announcement.

Sumption said archaeologists were convinced they had found the wreck of the Endeavour after matching structural details and the shape of the remains to those on original plans.

I am satisfied that this is the final resting place of one of the most important and contentious vessels in Australias maritime history, Sumption said.

Video: Vigil marks Costa Concordia shipwreck anniversary

But in a statement issued soon afterward, D.K. Abbass, the executive director of the Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project, said her group was the lead organization in the study at Newport Harbor.

What we see on the shipwreck site under study is consistent with what might be expected of the Endeavour, but there has been no indisputable data found to prove the site is that iconic vessel, and there are many unanswered questions that could overturn such an identification, Abbass wrote. When the study is done, RIMAP will post the legitimate report.

In a subsequent interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Kieran Hosty, the Australian museum's manager of maritime archeology, said he thought his group's contract with RIMAP had ended in November but he couldn't comment for certain. He gave further details that he said had convinced them it was the Endeavour, including the size of the timbers, that it was European-built, and the scuttling holes in the keel.

Story continues

So it tick all those boxes, Hosty told the ABC. So, we are very open to conversations with Dr. Abbass if she disagrees with our findings, their findings.

Sumption had earlier said that the ships significant role in exploration, astronomy and science made it important not only to Australia, but also to New Zealand, Britain and the U.S.

The last pieces of the puzzle had to be confirmed before I felt able to make this call," Sumption said at the news conference. Based on archival and archaeological evidence, Im convinced its the Endeavour."

Only about 15% of the vessel remains and researchers are now focused on what can be done to protect and preserve it, Sumption said at the news conference. He said that the museum was working closely with maritime experts in Rhode Island as well as with state and federal officials in the U.S. and Australia to secure the site.

But Abbass said that while her organization recognized the connection between Australian citizens of British descent and the Endeavour, its conclusions would be driven by proper scientific process and not Australian emotions or politics.

The ship was launched in 1764 as the Earl of Pembroke. Four years later, it was renamed Endeavour by Britains navy and was readied for a major scientific voyage to the Pacific.

From 1768 to 1771, the Endeavour sailed the South Pacific, ostensibly to record the transit of Venus in Tahiti in 1769. Cook then continued sailing the region searching for the "Great Southern Land."

He charted the coastline of New Zealand. His first significant encounter with the Indigenous Maori people ended badly, with his crew killing several Maori. In 2019, the British government expressed regret over the killings but stopped short of a full apology.

He also charted Australias eastern coastline, before claiming the land for Great Britain in 1770.

The Endeavour was later sold to private owners and renamed Lord Sandwich. It was deliberately sunk in 1778 by British forces during the American Revolution.

A year later, Cook was killed in Hawaii during another Pacific voyage. In 1788, the so-called First Fleet of 11 ships, with hundreds of convicts aboard, arrived in Australia to establish a British colony.
Mental Health-Related Prescriptions to Australian Children On the Rise

Despite the known risks of adverse effects in children and adolescents and potential consequences for childrens developing bodies and brains, researchers have found a steady increase in the prescriptions of psychiatric drugs by Australian doctors to young people.

The study published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry examined the prescription to over half a million children under 19 years old of drugs used to treat psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorders, psychosis, and sleep problems.

From 2011 to 2018, the prescriptions of melatonin, a drug used to treat sleep problems, increased by 600 percent. Prescription of drugs used to treat attention deficit disorders almost doubled, while antipsychotics increased 63 percent, and antidepressants increased 43 percent.

The increases were sharpest in 10 to 14-year-olds.

There are also growing concerns that among the lockdowns and anxiety of the pandemic the figure could be even higher after the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found a sharp increase in the number of mental health-related medications dispensed in March 2020 compared with March 2019.

Prescriptions of melatonin to children has increased by 600 percent. (Jochen Schoenfeld/Shutterstock)

With melatonin, although many consider it innocuous, it is a hormone, and there is limited evidence for long-term safety, said research leader and professor at the University of Adelaide Jon Jureidini said in a release.

Antipsychotics are associated with weight gain and metabolic problems, including diabetes. And antidepressants are associated with suicidal behaviour, especially in vulnerable teens. In America, the FDAAmericas equivalent of the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administrationhas included a strong black box warning about this risk on all antidepressants since 2004.

The lead author and PhD candidate at the University of Adelaides Robinson Research Institute Julie Klau said that very few psychiatric drugs are approved for children or teenagers in Australia, and none for depression.

According to an investigation by The Therapeutic Goods Administration published in April 2021, the past five years have not produced any further support to either the efficacy or safety of antidepressants in children and adolescents.

However, we found that 1 in 10 teenagers 15 to 18 years were prescribed antidepressants in 2018, Klau said.

Pediatrician Meg Meeker attributes this problem to a deeper cause and says that we must address it at the root instead of prescribing medication.

 The best that we can do for our kids is to try to control things in their environment that will push them toward depression. This we can do. We can boldly identify what works against them and get rid of them, Meeker said.

Do what you can to keep your child from being emotionally isolated. Gradually decrease screen time for kids and for yourself and increase face-to-face time with them. Encourage your kids to meet with friends in person. Teach them that they need family, friends, and God. Show them how to connect with family genuinely spend time on weekends together and talk with your kids. Listen to them. Laugh with them and play games.
Staff prepare COVID-19 vaccines in the pharmacy area at the Olympic Park Vaccination Centre in Sydney, Australia, on May 10, 2021. (James Gourley/Pool/Getty Images)

Australia Approves Boosters For 16 And Over

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) have approved booster shots for teens aged 16 and above, effective Feb. 3.

Teenagers will be receiving the same dosage as adults and the recommended booster interval period is also three months after the primary doses.

Health Minister Greg Hunt welcomed the news saying it was good news for the many Australians returning to school this week.

Teenagers have made many sacrifices throughout this pandemic; their social and educational lives have suffered through lockdowns and restrictions, along with the impact on their mental health and wellbeing, Hunt said.

It is critical for their health and wellbeing to be able to engage with their friends and get back into school activities.

Currently, adolescents aged 16 to 17 already have a vaccination rate of 91 percent and now, more than 60 percent of them are eligible to receive their booster shots.

Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Aug. 23, 2021. (Rohan Thomson/Getty Images)

Hunt encouraged all teenagers to complete their primary dosages and to come forward for their boosters, he said on Sunrise on Feb. 3.

Immunocompromised adolescents aged 16 to 17 years of age who have received a third primary dose of COVID-19 vaccine are recommended by the ATAGI to receive a fourth booster dose of the Pfizer vaccine once the three-month interval is fulfilled.

Those that are working in high-risk settings and those that have recently contracted the virus are also recommended to get the booster dose as soon as they become eligible.

However, Peter Collignon, professor of microbiology from the Australian National University said that the vaccination of this age group will not make much impact on preventing severe outbreaks in schools.

I think probably less [impact] than expecting because the main benefit of boosters is for those over the age of 50 or 60, where most of the deaths are occurring, Collignon said on Sunrise on Feb. 2.

He argued that the risk of severe disease and death within the younger cohort is already low, and despite the public notion that they may get infected and pass it on to older Australians, they are also not the cohort with the highest proportion of cases.

According to the Australian Heath Departments data, Australians between 20 to 40 years of age take up the major proportion of COVID-19 cases.

Collignon however, stated that although vaccines, in general, are less effective in controlling the spread of COVID-19 it was better than not being vaccinated at all.

The vaccines decrease peoples chance of dying or getting seriously ill; which is what the vaccines were designed to do, he said.

Theyre very good at stopping or dying getting seriously ill, but less effect on you getting and spreading to others.

I think we had unreasonable explanations or expectations for how much spread they would decrease which is evident in whats happened or Omicron over the last few weeks.

Collignon also mentioned that rapid antigen tests (RATs) are useful for testing for the virus when one already has symptoms, but he noted that asymptomatic people can easily receive a false negative on the test.

If youre unwell, and you have a RAT test and its positive, theres a very high chance90 percent plus that youve got it and also that youre more infectious.

But using them on asymptomatic people, youll probably only pick up half the cases. So, you know, theres a lot of testing you have to do for probably not a lot of return. When we had zero COVID [cases] they were inappropriate because they missed so many cases.

Data released by the COVID-19 Critical Intelligence Unit on the specificity and sensitivity of the RATs also support Collignons statements.

RATs currently have a specificity of 58 percent for asymptomatic individuals, a lot lower compared to the PCR tests that give the test an overall sensitivity of over 99 percent. The low sensitivity for asymptomatic individuals also implies that around 40 percent of individuals with the disease and asymptomatic may go undetected.

Sensitivity is higher for those with symptoms with a sensitivity of 72 percent.

Collignon encouraged a more nuanced approach to using RATs saying that it wont make a lot of difference for asymptomatic people to be tested every day.

Testing asymptomatic people every day often is probably not all that beneficial. What we should use them is for people with symptoms, but also in some high-risk situations. For instance, staff in nursing homes where the people are still very vulnerable even with vaccination.

As of Feb. 3, 40.82 percent of Australians over 18 have received their boosters.
Winston-Salem officials will take extra steps to keep people away from the evacuation zone around a burning fertilizer plant, and cant say how soon it will be until theyre able to tell people who live there that it is safe to go home.

The good news on Wednesday was that fears are subsiding that a rail car filled with 90 tons of potentially explosive ammonium nitrate could ignite or leak.

And fire officials are taking steps to keep the rail car from overheating should the fire, now dying back, take a turn for the worse.

But it has become clear that earlier projections that the area might be safe after 36 or 48 hours have now gone by the wayside, and that the evacuation zone will be off limits for a longer period that officials can no longer define.

That remains intact and will remain intact for an undetermined time, Winston-Salem Fire Chief William Trey Mayo told reporters, as N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper, visiting the city, looked on. You have heard me kick around potentially drawing in that radius at 36 hours. We are now beyond 36 hours, and we have not reduced it.

Mayo said he had also talked about letting people go back to their homes after 48 hours, but that because of the unpredictable nature of ammonium nitrate on the fire site, that is not going to happen.

We have too much product and too many unknowns, Mayo said.

Mayo said it was an employee of Winston Weaver that discovered the fire and called it in. All 36 employees of the company are accounted for and unhurt, the chief said.

Mayo gave a stark analysis of the danger that firefighters faced when they showed up near the intersection of Cherry Street and Indiana Avenue shortly after dark on Monday, when a massive fire broke out at Winston Weaver Co.s fertilizer plant and quickly erupted into a bright orange wall of flames topped with roiling black smoke.

The fact of the matter is that at the beginning of this incident, there was enough ammonium nitrate on hand for this to be one of the worst explosions in U.S. history, Mayo told reporters.

The fire was plenty bad on its own. After battling the fire for some two hours and pouring water down on it from above, firefighters abandoned their fight and pulled back to more than a mile away when it simply became too dangerous to stay.

Police, fire and other public safety officials mounted an intense effort to get people within a mile of the burning plant to evacuate. Inmates in a minimum-security prison and some students at Wake Forest University were among those who left because of the explosion threat. More than 6,500 people live within a mile of the plant.

The fire destroyed the plant, which continues to burn at a more subdued level, though still powerfully enough to blanket sections of the city with thick, low-hanging smoke.

Access too easy?

But since that first night of the fire, motorists have also been seen driving unimpeded on Indiana Avenue and other streets close to the still-burning plant site. Some of the yellow police tape blocking streets had fallen to the pavement, and some drivers were steering around barricades.

Reporters asked during the press conference whether a one-mile perimeter was enough, and one pointed out that both U.S. 52 and University Parkway cross through the evacuation zone, but have remained open to traffic since the non-mandatory evacuation was put in place.

Mayo said the one-mile perimeter is the one that experts in the field have recommended. Both Mayo and Winston-Salem Police Chief Catrina Thompson said theres not enough manpower to close off every street in the evacuation zone, including those heavily-traveled thru-highways.

We discussed shutting down 52, and decided it would create increased congestion, Mayo said. If you are coming from the north and 52 is shut down, how are you going to go through?

Still, Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines said after the news conference that he had asked city administrators to find ways to make the site more secure.

We need barricades and signage and things of that nature, Joines said, adding that he had asked City Manager Lee Garrity to see what can be done.

City officials were also asked by reporters on Wednesday whether the fire danger was so serious that a mandatory evacuation should be put in place, but both Joines and Mayo said that would be impractical to try to carry out.

You are talking about going door to door and physically removing people from their homes and their places of business, Mayo said. We have said, you dont need to be within a mile of this plant. To carry out a mandatory evacuation requires us to put emergency personnel inside that one-mile radius. You cant put up a fence around that one mile and say everyone is out and going to stay out. You have to continue to patrol and enforce that mandatory evacuation.

Cooper visited with local officials to discuss what steps are being taken before telling reporters that his office has been helping and stands ready to do more. Some 25 state and federal agencies have people on hand, officials said.

Wednesday afternoon, Mayo said, the fire department was planning to take advantage of a helicopter from the N.C. Highway Patrol to send up a hazardous materials specialist who can better determine the state of the fire. The department has monitored the fire with drones sent aloft periodically.

Drone footage is fine, but it is not the same thing as having human eyes in the sky to be able to look at the situation and take some high-quality photographs, Mayo said.

Some 500 tons of ammonium nitrate, including the chemicals in the rail car, were on the site when the fire began, Mayo said.

Mayo told reporters on Wednesday that when firefighters arrived, they discovered that the rail car full of ammonium nitrate was off-gassing.

The concern was that it had undergone enough heating from radiant fire exposure that it had started to kind of cook on its own and go through a self-sustaining heat- generating reaction, Mayo said. The reconnaissance we have been able to conduct this morning indicates that that is not happening.

Mayo said firefighters were also concerned that some of the material in the rail car had become molten and run out into a pit under one end of that rail car. Firefighters used a bomb robot from the police department to go over and check the rail car, and found that it was not leaking, Mayo said.

Extra steps

Mayo said that even though the rail car doesnt appear to be a threat at present, the fire department will be positioning a ladder truck on the WestRock companys property adjacent to the fire site so that the rail car can be cooled should the need arise.

Ammonium nitrate is unpredictable enough that we are preparing for ... getting in a position where if something were to happen, and the behavior of the fire were to change, we will already be in a position to keep that rail car cool, Mayo said.

Mayo said that rain forecast for Thursday and Friday should be generally good, although rain can cause chemical runoff.

Many people in Winston-Salem experienced thick smoke that reduced visibility on highways during the morning commute, thanks to a temperature inversion that trapped the smoky air next to the ground in a plume that stretched generally southwest from the plant.

The direction of the plume shifted with the wind and improved as the day advanced, but officials said considerable variability could affect air quality, especially for people who experience breathing difficulties.

How much longer?

Mayo told reporters on Wednesday that an ammonium nitrate fire presents challenges in setting forth a timeline for getting life back to normal in the evacuation zone.

The challenge with this situation ... is having access to full information, and the unpredictable nature of the chemical that we are talking about, Mayo said. Ammonium nitrate has a history of being unpredictable in the way that it reacts, the way that it responds to heat, the way that it responds to pressure, to shock, it is sort of an enigma, and we are giving it due regard because of its history.

Ammonia nitrate in itself is not flammable, Mayo said, but it causes everything around it to burn.

For now at least, it appears that no emergency declaration is in the cards for Winston-Salem.

We are ready to take whatever steps are necessary, Cooper told reporters. We are relying on local officials here who on the ground and have all the information. If they ask for things, then we will provide them. Usually a state of emergency helps with transportation and those kinds of things, and I dont think we are facing those kinds of issues at this point.

One reporter mentioned calling out the national guard, but Mayo said people should understand that officials are doing the best they can with available resources.

Our capacity to evacuate is limited, and thats why we ask people to leave voluntarily, Mayo said. We have made a lot of difficult decisions with limited information ... in this business, making the best decision is not the same thing as making a good decision. Sometimes you have to made the best decision when you dont have a good decision to choose from.
Key Considerations for Market Forecast:

Impact of lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, demand destruction, and change in customer behavior

Optimistic, probable, and pessimistic scenarios for all markets as the impact of pandemic unfolds

Pre- as well as post-COVID-19 market estimates

Quarterly impact analysis and updates on market estimates

Fetch Innovative Heart Failure Drugs Market Insights Right Here!

Key Market Participants Analysis

The heart failure drugs market is fragmented and the vendors are deploying organic and inorganic growth strategies to compete in the market. The global heart failure drugs market is fragmented in nature, as many generic drug manufacturers and pharmaceutical giants are providing drugs for a disease. Companies are focusing on achieving a competitive edge by accomplishing new technologies and increasing their margins in response to changing market conditions in the end-use industries. In addition, vendors are competing based on factors such as operational cost, innovation, price, and product quality. Some of the factors that will likely make the market more competitive are the prices of raw material and end-products, the increasing rate of product demand, capacity expansion plans, and supply flow.

Some Dominant Players and their Product Offerings

Amgen Inc.

The company operates in one business segment and it offers human therapeutics. The company offers heart failure drugs namely Omecamtiv Mecarbil.

AstraZeneca Plc

The company generates revenue by developing and manufacturing pharmaceutical products. The company offers heart failure drugs namely Farxiga.

Bayer AG

The company operates in key business segments including Pharmaceuticals, Crop science, and Consumer health. The company offers heart failure drugs namely Verquvo. In addition, the segment focuses on the development, production, and marketing of prescription products in the areas of oncology, ophthalmology, hematology, contrast agents, and diagnostic imaging equipment.

Get more information on vendors and their product offerings as you Download our FREE Sample Report!

Heart Failure Drugs Market 2021-2025: Segmentation Analysis

Drug Class

Beta blockers



ARBs



ACE inhibitors



Others

The heart failure drugs market share growth by the beta-blockers segment will be significant during the forecast period. The beta-blockers segment will continue to account for the largest market share during the forecast period as per this market outlook report from Technavio

Geography

North America



Europe



Asia



ROW

North America emerged as the largest regional segment of the market. The market is growing in this region mainly due to the high incidence of CVDs in the US, which results in the growing consumption of CVD drugs. 38% of the market's growth will originate from North America during the forecast period. The US and Canada are the key markets for heart failure drugs in North America. Huge investments in the pharmaceutical industry, the presence of pharmaceutical giants in the region, and high prevalence rate of heart failure cases, and the huge economic burden associated with it are some of the major factors supporting the dominance of the US in the region and even globally. The rising prevalence rate of heart failure cases coupled with the increasing R&D efforts and recent product launches in the region is expected to boost the demand for heart failure drugs in the region.

To customize this report for getting additional information of each contributing segment, Speak to Our Analyst

Heart Failure Drugs Market 2021-2025: Drivers and Challenges

The heart failure drugs market is driven by rising geriatric population, an increase in chronic diseases, and a growing sedentary lifestyle. A sedentary lifestyle for several years is directly associated with the increased risk of CVDs, type 2 diabetes, and premature mortality. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity are some of the potential factors leading to heart failure. There has been a continuous rise in chronic diseases, such as diabetes, leading to huge concern from healthcare professionals across the globe. These diseases are likely to lead to rising demand for heart failure drugs during the forecast period.

A highly genericized market is one of the key factors hindering the heart failure drugs market growth. The global heart failure drugs market is highly genericized, which means the generic versions of the drugs have captured a huge portion of the market. Generic substitution (GS) successfully increased the penetration of generic drugs and reduced the overall pharmaceutical expenses of patients. However, this increased the price competition in the industry and decreased the overall revenue generated by top companies in the branded drugs market.

Unlock insights on the drivers and challenges likely to impact the market by Downloading our FREE Report Sample

Market Drivers

Market Challenges

Market Trends

Vendor Landscape

Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

Competitive scenario

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Heart Failure Drugs Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2020 Forecast period 2021-2025 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 7.75% Market growth 2021-2025 $ 2.69 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 5.71 Regional analysis North America, Europe, Asia, and ROW Performing market contribution North America at 38% Key consumer countries US, Canada, Germany, UK, and China Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Amgen Inc., AstraZeneca Plc, Bayer AG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., Daiichi Sankyo Co. Ltd., Eli Lilly and Co., Exelixis Inc., Gilead Sciences Inc., Novartis AG, and Pfizer 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.

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Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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GREENSBORO  Mary Smith says shell never get over the loss of her son three years ago.

Another Black man who died at the hands of police.

He was also a father to some, a friend to others.

But the $2.57 million settlement from Smiths lawsuit against the city will help bring closure to a chapter of life that has been a struggle, she said Wednesday in an interview from her home in Greenville, S.C.

We feel relieved about it. Were thankful that, you know, Marcus got justice. Were thankful for that, she said.

Smith sued the city, Guilford County, eight police officers and two paramedics in her sons controversial death, which many have used as a rallying cry for social justice in the city.

The powerful images from officer-worn cameras of the September 2018 incident havent diminished over time. They show an anxious Marcus Smith, homeless at the time and apparently in the grips of a mental health episode, on downtown Church Street pleading for help from police. Eventually, he was restrained, with his hands bound to his feet while lying on his stomach.

The cries for help would be some of the last words he spoke.

The method of extreme restraint  commonly known as hogtying  led to his death, a state medical examiner later said.

It had been a practice employed by Greensboro police many times prior to the tragedy.

The Smith family sued the city with the contention that it wasnt necessary.

Over time, the city vigorously defended itself against various aspects of the case, spending hundreds of thousands in attorney fees and further adding to the divide and derision already felt by civil rights activists and supporters of the Smith family.

Outside of the courtroom, protests and vigils were a constant reminder of Smiths death.

There were demands from the community for a settlement, but it seemed one would be years away. If at all.

That changed with Tuesdays surprise announcement.

According to the city, the money will go to Smiths mother and father and an unspecified number of Marcus Smiths children.

For Mary Smith, this part of the story is over.

The people of Greensboro, the community, the organizers, the churches, the pastors  we couldnt have made it without them, Smith said. They were our support. ... They were our backbone.

And I look forward to coming to Greensboro, you know, even though it was a tragedy that we came for. But it also was an opportunity for my family to get some happiness, if you want to call it that. Because they brought a lot of light to our darkness.

Smith said part of the justice she believes her family has received is the permanent recognition of her son that the city plans as part of the settlement. Though the city has admitted no wrongdoing in the settlement, it plans to erect a plaque that says: Marcus Deon Smiths life mattered.

And it did. Then. Now. And in the future.

Its been hard to come to the realization that hes gone. I have sympathy for the people that he helped at the IRC, Smith said about the city shelter for the homeless where her son had many friends. Marcus gave a lot of himself to the people at the IRC and the homeless people. He really did. And were thankful for the plaque that theyre going to put up in his name.

He will always be remembered.

On Jan. 30, Marcus Smith would have turned 42, and many residents sent her birthday cards in his honor.

The hardest two days of the year, she said, are his birthday and his death day  Sept. 8.

When we think about Greensboro, his mother said, its not so negative. When you think about the community, even though thats where Marcus died, the community kept us going.
Outside many a butcher's shop, you can still find a model of a grinning pig, on its hind legs, often dressed in a butcher's apron, merrily brandishing a knife and fork.

Call me over-sensitive, but I've always found these models particularly creepy.

Would any pig in its right mind be quite so happy to participate in its own consumption?

In our over-sensitive times, you would think tucking into food items with cheery faces would have gone out of fashion.

But no: it seems that nowadays we all want to tuck into any cake that looks like a cross between a human and an animal.

It all started with Marks & Spencer, who successfully marketed a Percy Pig line of confectionery, culminating in their current Valentine's Day gift, 'Percy Pig Hogs and Kisses'.

This consists of Percy Pig hugging Penny Pig, who is naked but for a yellow flower behind one ear. Both of them are beaming.

CRAIG BROWN: It all started with Marks & Spencer, who successfully marketed a Percy Pig line of confectionery, culminating in their current Valentine's Day gift, 'Percy Pig Hogs and Kisses' (pictured).

Marks & Spencer has settled an intellectual property claim with the German discounter Aldi after it accused them of copying the design of its famous Colin the Caterpillar cake (pictured) for their rival Cuthbert

Details of the 'confidential' deal have not been revealed, but it is understood that Cuthbert (pictured) will not appear again in quite the same form

Don't they know they're made of chocolate and are about to be eaten?

Before the Percy Pig range came M&S's creation of Colin the Caterpillar, which was basically a swiss roll with a goofy Henry the Hoover face shoved on at one end.

Soon after, they added Colin's girlfriend, Connie the Caterpillar. Sales now amount to 15 million.

Soon, all the other supermarkets were following suit, leading to cakey caterpillar wars.

To the untrained eye, they all look much the same but each supermarket has given its caterpillar a different name.

The most off-putting is Sainsbury's Wiggles, which makes it sound as if the poor thing is alive and kicking, so that anyone eating it will be enduring a Bush Tucker Trial.

Tesco's caterpillar is called Curly. Its face is bright orange, and has a 'hey-ho' expression, suggesting he is resigned to its fate.

Curly also has a brother called Carl, who is gluten-free. His face is wreathed in an optimistic smile, suggesting it is both happier than Curly and also more stupid.

Ever-keen to seem a cut-above, Waitrose gives its caterpillar  at 7, a pound more expensive than most of the others  the name Cecil.

Oddly enough, Cecil looks a bit like Ann Widdecombe, with an unforgiving hair-do, but thankfully doesn't come with added opinions.

Morrison's caterpillar, unimaginatively called Morris, has eyes too close together, and no mouth to speak of.

Like all the others, it has a meagre six feet rather than the conventional one hundred.

Asda's Clyde the Caterpillar has a green face, a bright red nose and huge orange bovver boots.

CRAIG BROWN: Ever-keen to seem a cut-above, Waitrose gives its caterpillar  at 7, a pound more expensive than most of the others  the name Cecil. Oddly enough, Cecil looks a bit like Ann Widdecombe, with an unforgiving hair-do, but thankfully doesn't come with added opinions.

Asda's Clyde the Caterpillar has a green face, a bright red nose and huge orange bovver boots

The two remaining caterpillars have famously been at war for nearly a year: Colin the Caterpillar from M&S, and Cuthbert the Caterpillar from Aldi.

Last April, M&S launched a lawsuit against Aldi, saying that Cuthbert was a copy-cat of Colin. Aldi responded by tweaking Cuthbert's face to make it look less like Colin's, but M&S remained unimpressed.

Since February of last year, Cuthbert has been nowhere to be seen.

The two sides have now reached some sort of secret deal.

M&S say: 'The objective of the claim was to protect the intellectual property in our Colin the Caterpillar cake and we are very pleased with the outcome.'

But Aldi also claim to be delighted. Some say that they have simply agreed to change Cuthbert's eyes from brown to white.

'Cuthbert is free and looking forward to seeing all his fans again very soon,' says a spokesman.

In this case, 'seeing' is just a clumsy euphemism for 'eaten by'.

Of course, no news story these days is ever entirely free of Boris.

In this instance, Downing Street know-alls have claimed that the cake which 'ambushed' Boris at his forbidden birthday party on June 19, 2020, was none other than ... Colin the Caterpillar.

No doubt Sue Gray and Cressida Dick each sought an interview with Colin the Caterpillar, as either witness or suspect. But it was not to be. Eighteen months on, Colin had disappeared, believed eaten.

Or was it a case of mistaken identity? Even in this digital age, police photofits are notoriously inexact, with everyone looking like Liam Gallagher.

Perhaps the guilty party was not Colin at all, but Cuthbert or Morris or Clyde or Curly or Cecil or Carl or Connie, or even the unfortunate Wiggles.

Without a more robust inquiry, I fear we shall never know.
The right of church schools to expel LGBTIQ students will be scrapped as part of the governments push to legislate religious freedom laws, as Prime Minister Scott Morrison tries to lock in the support of moderate Liberal MPs ahead of a potential vote on the bill in the next sitting fortnight.

The federal government will seek to amend a contentious section of the Sex Discrimination Act alongside its Religious Discrimination Bill, in a move that follows lengthy discussions between the Prime Ministers office and key backbenchers over the past week.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has flagged an amendment to the governments religious discrimination bill to protect students from discrimination. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The amendment, confirmed by Mr Morrison on Thursday, represents a significant departure from the governments public position until now. Originally, the Coalition insisted the best avenue for addressing the potential repeal of the Sex Discrimination Act exemptions was through a 12-month review process by the Australian Law Reform Commission after the passage of the Religious Discrimination Bill.

Instead, moderate Liberal MPs Dave Sharma, Katie Allen, Fiona Martin and Angie Bell are pushing for the provision to be immediately scrapped. Mr Morrison has agreed to amend the law but the details of how that is done are still being worked out.
Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], February 3 (ANI): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will visit Chhattisgarh's Raipur today to lay the foundation stone of 'Amar Jawan Jyoti' and inaugurate Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhumiheen Krishi Mazduur Yojana.

According to an official statement, Amar Jawan Jyoti will be constructed on the premises of the 4th Battalion, Chhattisgarh Armed Forces Mana, Raipur. The flame of Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti will continue to be lit in honour of the martyrs.

Also Read | Loan Fraud: CBI Books Hyderabad-Based Firm for Cheating SBI of Rs 218 Crore.

"We will honour the martyrdom of the sons of Chhattisgarh who sacrificed their lives for the country by joining uniformed services, as well as the Bravehearts of the country who sacrificed their lives in Chhattisgarh through 'Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti'," said Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel.

A wall with names of Martyrs, memorial tower and VVIP platform will also be set up at Amar Jawan Jyoti in Chhattisgarh. The wall will be constructed with brown marble with the names of Martyrs engraved on the same. This crescent-shaped wall will be about 25 feet high having a length of about 100 feet, and the thickness of this wall will be 3 feet.

Also Read | 'BJP Building Temple of Democracy in the Form of New Parliament Building', Says Rajnath Singh.

The memorial tower will be set up of sandstone, brown white marble granite in front of a crescent-shaped wall. A memento will be made on its top. Rifle and helmet will be in the form of insignia on the base in front of the memorial tower. The flame of Chhattisgarh Amar Jawan Jyoti will be lit in front of this symbol which will be ignited 24 hours by fuel supply through underground pipelines.

A fort-like two-storey building will be constructed just in front of the memorial tower, the length of the base of which will be 150 feet and the width will be 90 feet. The height of this building will be 40 feet.

Gandhi will also inaugurate the Chhattisgarh government's Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhumiheen Krishi Mazduur Yojana.

Under this scheme, the Chhattisgarh government will give annual financial aid of Rs 6000 to rural landless families. The registration for the scheme was started last year in September. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
It was just revealed that Hersheys chocolate company has begun to fire the unvaccinated employees at its corporate offices. And besides letting them go, the company is also requesting that these employees sign a confidentiality agreement, and pledge to never talk about what happened.

Its interesting to note though, that this applies only to the corporate employees.

Whereas for the Hersheys workers who actually make the chocolate, or the ones who interact with the public, this mandate does not apply to them.

Meanwhile, the backlash against Joe Rogan and his podcast seems to not only be coming from the legacy media outletsbut actually, calls to censor him appear to be coming from the U.S. government itself.

Resources:

 American Hartford Gold (866-242-2352):

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 Joe Rogan:

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 Hersheys Mandate:

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 T-Mobile:

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 CNN Statements:

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 Joe Biden:

https://ept.ms/34aV6LC

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big cracks: A portion of Mosquito Creek, La Romaine, where construction work on the Solomon Hochoy Highway extension to Point Fortin is ongoing, developed

cracks last month Photo: TREVOR WATSON
A general view of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (foreground), in the Adriatic Sea, Feb. 2. The Truman strike group is operating under NATO command and control along with several other NATO allies for coordinated maritime maneuvers, anti-submarine warfare training and long-range training. Reuters-Yonhap





The United States deployed several thousand troops to bolster NATO forces in Eastern Europe, Wednesday, as the leaders of France and Germany flagged trips to Moscow to address Western fears of an invasion of Ukraine.







With Russia refusing to pull back 100,000 troops poised on Ukraine's borders, 1,000 U.S. soldiers in Germany are being sent to Romania, and another 2,000 in the U.S. flown to Germany and Poland.







"As long as (President Vladimir Putin) is acting aggressively, we are going to make sure we reassure our NATO allies in Eastern Europe that we're there," President Joe Biden said after the deployments were announced.







In response, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said the move would make it harder for a compromise between the two sides, calling the U.S. deployments "destructive steps, which increase military tension and reduce scope for political decision."







Western powers have been engaged in intense diplomatic efforts  coupled with the threat of sanctions against Putin's inner circle  to deter what they fear to be a looming invasion of ex-Soviet Ukraine, despite strenuous denials from Moscow.







Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced Wednesday he would soon travel to Moscow to discuss the crisis, while France's President Emmanuel Macron said a similar trip may be in the cards  depending on upcoming telephone talks with other world leaders.







Pentagon spokesman John Kirby speaks during a briefing at the Pentagon in Washington, Feb. 2. AP-Yonhap









In Washington, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby stressed that the U.S. troop movements were to demonstrate commitment to the NATO alliance, and that no American soldiers would be sent to fight in Ukraine, which is not a NATO member.







But that is unlikely to assuage Putin, who has accused the U.S. and NATO of seeking to "contain" Russia by placing troops and strategic arms on its border.







"Ukraine itself is just a tool to achieve this goal," Putin said Tuesday in his first major comments in weeks on the crisis.







Putin has demanded guarantees that Ukraine will not join NATO, and has implicitly threatened the former Soviet state with the massive military buildup.







Russia also wants NATO and the U.S. to foreswear the deployment of missile systems near Russia's borders and to pull back NATO forces in Eastern Europe.







Putin has left the door open to talks, saying he was studying Western proposals set out last month in response to Russia's demands, and that he hoped that "in the end we will find a solution."







But in a phone call with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson Wednesday, he noted "the unwillingness of NATO to adequately respond to the well-founded Russian concerns," the Kremlin said.







The Kremlin also claimed it had China's support in the standoff, and that that would be demonstrated when Putin meets President Xi Jinping in Beijing, Friday.







Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, right, and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte are seen during their meeting in Kyiv, in this handout photo taken and released by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Service, Feb. 2. AFP-Yonhap









Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte was the latest NATO leader to visit Kyiv, Wednesday, in a show of support, meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky.







After the talks, Zelensky said Ukraine was focused "only on peace," but insisted it has the right to defend itself.







Rutte said it was "essential for dialogue to continue" between Russia and the other players.







Citing leaked documents, the Spanish newspaper El Pais reported that the Western proposals to Russia, set out in letters by NATO and the U.S. last month, include arms control and trust-building measures to defuse the situation.







While a guarantee against Ukraine joining NATO was not offered, the documents proposed commitments by the U.S. and Russia "to refrain from deploying offensive ground-launched missile systems and permanent forces with a combat mission in the territory of Ukraine," El Pais reported.







"We did not make this document public," Kirby said, without denying its authenticity.







He said it confirmed that "NATO and its partners are unified in their resolve and open to constructive and serious diplomacy."







Russian soldiers are seen training at the Yurginsky training ground in the Kemerovo region of Russia in this screen grab from a video released by the Russian Defense Ministry Press Service, Feb. 2. AP-Yonhap









In a change of language, the White House said Wednesday that it would no longer refer to a Russian invasion of Ukraine as "imminent"  explaining the word suggested Putin had already made a decision to attack.







Press Secretary Jen Psaki sought to unpick a tangle over her word choice last week that drew criticism from Ukraine.







Psaki said that she usually referred to Putin putting troops in a position where they "could invade at any time."







Tensions with the West have been further aggravated by plans for joint military exercises between Russia and neighboring Belarus, where Washington claims Moscow is preparing to send 30,000 troops.







Video footage released by the Russian defense ministry showed tanks speeding across snowy fields in Belarus and combat helicopters flying overhead as units from both countries practiced ahead of the Feb. 10 to 20 drills.







NATO welcomed the new U.S. troop deployment, with Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg saying the alliance "will do whatever is necessary to protect and defend all allies." (AFP)


Former President Donald Trump has further  if thats possible  undistinguished himself by again attacking his vice president, Mike Pence. In another of his ongoing email messages to supporters (which are usually accompanied by a donate button), Trump says he wanted Pence to overturn the results of the last election. He referenced a bipartisan effort to strengthen the Electoral College Act of 1887, ensuring that no vice president can be allowed to overturn presidential election results, assuming that vote counts in the individual states are accurate and governors have properly submitted them to Congress for ratification.

While the wisdom of updating that law is debated, there is another issue that is long overdue for consideration. And that is Trumps condemnation  not criticism, but condemnation  of anyone who disagrees with his claim to have had the election stolen from him. This is not about that claim. It is about Trumps language and personality, his demeaning of Democrats, the media and even some fellow Republicans who dont subscribe to his line.

Trump effectively lumped his most loyal vice president into the tub of RINOs and others he regards as enemies. During their four years in office, Pence never spoke ill of his boss. When I once asked him about Trumps personality he responded, Look at the results.

In some ways this has been a bargain with the devil. Republicans and especially evangelical Christians who once honored character and the practice of personal morality as at least equal to a presidents stand on political issues now refuse to hold Trump to that standard.

What does it mean to make a deal with the devil? Anne W. Zahra, M.Ed., is a language teacher. She responded to the question on the website Answers.com: When you make a deal with the devil, you ally yourself with a person of ill repute to accomplish what you want. The idea here is that you compromise your principles in a way that may turn out to be extremely harmful to you.

Is that not what especially evangelicals and others who highly regard personal integrity in our leaders have done with Trump? Does the end justify meanness and lying? Can they ever credibly question the behavior and language of future presidents when they have sold their souls on this big question?

There are many quotations about revenge and grudges from famous and not-so-famous people over the centuries. Two make my point: Grudges are for those who insist that they are owed something; forgiveness, however, is for those who are substantial enough to move on (Criss Jami, Salome: In Every Inch in Every Mile). The second: Anger, resentment and jealousy doesnt change the heart of others  it only changes yours (Shannon Alder, 300 Questions to Ask Your Parents Before Its Too Late).

Writing in The Washington Post, columnist Henry Olsen notes that Pence has avoided criticizing Trump since both men left office. Olson says Pence should reconsider.

Sure, some on the left seek to divide Republicans in hopes the dreadful record of Biden and his fellow Democrats will not be the main issue this November and in 2024, but from my observance of Pence since he was in Congress, it is not in his nature to engage in personal attacks, even when he has been falsely accused. As a practicing Christian, Pence abides by the teachings of his true leader who spoke of turning the other cheek. Some Bible commentators interpret this as saying let God handle it. Thats a far better bargain than hitting back and descending to the level of his critic.
Their bill  which would mandate that lawmakers put investments into a blind trust and ban the trading of individual stocks  has been joined by separate measures written by Senators Josh Hawley, Republican of Missouri, and Ben Sasse, Republican of Nebraska. Mr. Sasses version, drafted in 2018 and reintroduced on Wednesday, would go further, requiring presidents and vice presidents to release their tax returns and Congress to make public sexual harassment settlements, which have often been struck in secret.

The stock trading push stems from a string of recent accusations that senators from both parties traded health care stocks after closed-door briefings on the coronavirus pandemic. The issue was front and center in the two Senate races in Georgia in 2020, and Mr. Ossoff hit his Republican opponent, the incumbent David Perdue, on it with brutal efficiency.

I saw all this trading during the pandemic massively erode confidence in Congress, Mr. Ossoff said. Members of Congress have an unfair advantage when theyre making investment decisions. Whether or not it rises to the level of criminal insider trading, we know what legislation is likely to become law. We can draw inferences.

How Times reporters cover politics. We rely on our journalists to be independent observers. So while Times staff members may vote, they are not allowed to endorse or campaign for candidates or political causes. This includes participating in marches or rallies in support of a movement or giving money to, or raising money for, any political candidate or election cause. Learn more about our process.

The lawmakers caught up in the accusations still bristle. None were charged with insider trading, nor did they face repercussions from the House or Senate ethics committees.

Former Senator Kelly Loeffler of Georgia, who lost re-election to Raphael Warnock, defended her innocence on Sunday in the conservative Washington Examiner, blaming a left-wing blog and hypocritical Democrats who refuse to look at the investments of Ms. Pelosis affluent husband, Paul Pelosi, for what she called false accusations of insider trading. She suggested that the new bills banning stock trading were partisan efforts to deflect attention from Ms. Pelosi.
Tisha Campbell, seen at the 2021 Soul Train Music Awards in November, is "very traumatized" after an alleged trafficking scare last week. (Charles Sykes / Invision / Associated Press)

Actor Tisha Campbell, who claimed last week that she "almost got snatched up" by people she presumed to be human traffickers, has filed a report about the alleged incident with police in South Padre Island, Texas, her representative told The Times on Wednesday.

"She's very traumatized by the whole thing," publicist Courtney Barnes said in a phone interview. He said Campbell, who is no longer in Texas, filed the report Monday.

Campbell never mentioned a location in the video she posted to Instagram on Friday, but TMZ published a story naming Brownsville, Texas, as the site of the incident. Barnes said he corrected that information shortly afterward but might have been the source of the misunderstanding.

Barnes said his client had "gathered an understanding" of how traffickers work through her collaboration on a project with anti-trafficking activist Toni D. Rivera. After noticing some red flags, Campbell "got herself out of the situation" that went down outside her hotel.

On Saturday, some skeptics on social media cast doubt on the "Martin" and "House Party" star's account after Brownsville police said they could not find evidence of any such incident. Some were calling her "Tisha Smollett," alluding to "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett's 2019 attack hoax that unfolded in Chicago and led to a conviction in November.

"Regrettably, our department became aware of Ms. Campbells ordeal via social media and not through traditional reporting means as would be expected from a victim of an attempted heinous crime. ... Through numerous interviews and reviews of security camera footage, we could not validate Ms. Campbells stay in Brownsville hotels nor any other claims made in the video," the Brownsville Police Department said Saturday on social media.

But it turned out that although the 53-year-old "My Wife and Kids" actor had been working on an independent film in the Brownsville area, she was staying on South Padre Island, which has its own police department. South Padre is a barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico, about 30 miles east of Brownsville proper and just north of the U.S.-Mexico border.

The South Padre Island Police Department did not immediately respond Wednesday to a request for confirmation or comment.

Dont freak out, but I think I almost got snatched up, a visibly upset Campbell said in a video she posted to Instagram on Jan. 28. "So they dont have Ubers where Im filming, and I had to call a taxi. So I get this number, but the truck  van that pulls up is real sketchy looking. But theres a guy in the back seat, right?"

Campbell claims the man jumped out  she said she thought he was getting dropped off, but he wasn't  and told her to get in.

"He goes, 'Get in.' And I go, 'What?' He goes, 'Get in.' And I go, 'No!'," she said in the video.

Then she looked inside the vehicle, which didn't look like a taxi: It was very dirty and torn up, she said, and the back seat looked like it had been taken out.

"The guy in the front seat, the driver, goes 'Get in the car,'" which Campbell refused to do. She said the other man started moving toward her, while the driver told her to get in the front seat instead of the back.

She did not, and instead went back inside the hotel.

What's crazy is I went back to the front desk, the guy that gave me the taxi number wasn't there. I asked the woman where he was. She looks at the number and says, Why would he give you this number? This isnt the normal number,'" Campbell wrote in the caption of the Instagram post. "It was a set up fo real, she wrote in the Instagram caption. She said in the video that the incident had left her "f up."

Campbell also wrote that she was thankful to the film production for its concern and understanding after the incident.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Wake Forest University, which sits just outside a one-mile evacuation zone that would be most impacted by an explosion at a burning fertilizer plant, has canceled classes on Thursday and Friday, reversing a decision it made Wednesday afternoon.

The university issued an alert around 6:45 p.m., announcing the change.

In the alert, the university said it had received additional information from students and families regarding the scope and degree of challenges faced by those displaced.

About 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students live within the one-mile voluntary evacuation zone. Most of the campus sits just outside the zone.

On Wednesday, around 1:10 p.m., the universitys decision to resume classes after two days of cancellations sparked an immediate backlash from students, who were concerned about air quality and the risk of an explosion from a fertilizer plant a little more than one mile away.

Shortly after, a petition began to circulate calling on the university to reverse its decision. Within 36 minutes, the petition had gathered more than 1,300 signatures, according to the campus newspaper, the Old Gold & Black.

By 5:30 p.m., the number had swollen to 4,700 signatures.

Early Wednesday morning, part of the campus, near Polo Road and University Parkway, was coated by smoke from the fire.

In an editorial, the campus newspaper blasted university officials for their decision to resume classes after two days of canceled classes.

To expect students to learn in the shadow of a ticking time bomb  whether a fertilizer fire or mounting anxiety because of said fire  is irresponsible, the editorial said.

It added that some professors have moved their classes online.

The university canceled classes on Tuesday and Wednesday out of what it called an abundance of caution and in response to the displacement of students and staff living in the one-mile evacuation zone.

Many students living in the evacuation zone flocked to downtown hotels, friends homes or to spaces on campus that the university opened.

One student, who did not want to be named, questioned why the university wasnt shifting to online learning as it has done during spikes in COVID-19 cases.

A large number of students are not comfortable with this, with the housing situation, with the air quality, with the safety, the student said. It seems the logical thing for Wake Forest to do would be to use the remote infrastructure weve already developed under COVID.

The fire that began Monday night at the Winston Weaver Fertilizer Co., continues to burn. The plant houses 600 tons of ammonium nitrate.

Authorities initially predicted the threat of an explosion would last 36 hours, ending around 7 a.m., Wednesday.

Winston-Salem Fire Chief Trey Mayo said at a news conference on Wednesday afternoon that its not clear when people can return to their homes because of the ongoing threat of explosion.

We also talked about 48 hours, that we may be in a situation to allow folks back in their homes, and I dont think were going to be there, Mayo said. Weve got too much product, too many unknowns.

The university will discuss how to make up the four days of canceled instruction, according to the alert.
on Thursday announced a phased reopening of its border that has been largely closed for two years, but the travel and airline industry said much more was needed to revive the Pacific island nation's struggling tourism sector.
A closed mindset

I would like to know the point of publishing the Feb. 1 half-page story Man says he was denied kidney transplant over vaccination status. We have a friend who received a kidney transplant before COVID vaccines were available. She was a nervous wreck! She has been vaccinated, boosted, continues to double mask, work from home, visit friends in the out-of-doors and is hopeful she will receive a fourth dose of the vaccine soon. Why? Because she appreciates the transplant, she appreciates her health. She trusts science and the medical doctors and staff who care for her health.

The man they interviewed for this article has a long list of medical issues. I assume he has trusted medical science with his health up to this point  why the change in mindset?

I wish the media would publish more stories about people who trusted science, who were grateful to receive the COVID vaccine. Stories like this one do nothing but encourage the closed mindset of anti-vaxxers.

Martha Apple Advance

Simplicity

Theres a simple way to make sense of all the turmoil in the country today.

The murder of George Floyd brought to light how racially unjust America still is, how unfair its treatment of Black and brown people is. As a result, many activists spoke up and said we need to make changes that will fulfill the nations promise to all of its people. But that threatened conservatives, who somehow think that being fair to everyone means being less fair to them. (Its called privilege.)

So Republicans are now fighting to keep our children from learning that racism even exists. Every Republican argument about critical race theory, about banning a book, about teaching patriotic history is an attempt to maintain the status quo and deny equality to racial minorities.

Thats also why so many pundits are trying to belittle President Biden and keep COVID roaring  because Biden, Democrats, doctors and scientists are on the side of truth and justice. If their opponents can keep the pandemic raging, they can make the rational solution look like a failure.

There are good people who believe in fairness  until we get down to the nitty gritty and theyre required to acknowledge the truth and act accordingly. Then they become frightened people.

This is the new civil rights battle: fantasy versus simply acknowledging reality. Republican politicians let us know every day which side theyre on.

Kevin Reid Winston-Salem

Killers

What a waste.

Chad Carswell of Conover has lived a charmed life. Medical professionals have invested a great amount of care, expertise and, likely, money in keeping him alive. And now because he believes some crazy conspiracy foisted by conservative pundits and politicians, hes chosen to die rather than be vaccinated (Man says he was denied kidney transplant over vaccination status, Feb. 1).

Hes had to follow other rules and regiments to get on the transplant list, but in this one matter, hes chosen to believe liars rather than the doctors who have kept him alive thus far. His family should write down the names of the people who convinced him to, essentially, commit suicide and sue them. Theyre killers.

Bev Atkinson Winston-Salem

Free market forces

Is Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson really upset because M&Ms are not sexy enough?

In recent times, conservative pundits and elected Republican politicians have objected to changes to M&Ms, Mr. Potato Head and Dr. Seuss books, all of which are controlled by free market forces. Thats it. If any business or corporation changes its product, its to sell more product.

Conservatives are banning books in libraries across the country. The most recent is the wonderful graphic novel Maus by Art Spiegelman. This is actual  not pretend, but actual censorship, government telling libraries, You cant say that. Its a ban on legitimate and factual information that conservatives want to keep children  all children, not just theirs  from learning.

I dont want to hear one more damn word about Marxism or cancel culture until conservatives fix their own fascist tendencies. But Im not holding my breath.

Reggie Branson Winston-Salem
BUCHAREST, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- Moldova's Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita said late Tuesday that she was tested positive for COVID-19.

"Today I performed a PCR test for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 virus, which turned out to be positive," she wrote in her social media account, adding that she will work at home, online, in the next few days.

In the last 24 hours, 4,348 cases were confirmed after testing 13,988 samples in the country, according to the Health Ministry.

The confirmed infections have totaled 445,046 in the 3.5-million-population country. 
RALEIGH  A new state report has identified the transportation sector as North Carolinas leading cause of climate-altering greenhouse gases, overtaking the energy sector.

Gov. Roy Cooper called on the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality to prepare the updated greenhouse gas emissions inventory as part of an executive order signed last month. The inventory details the amount of greenhouse gases the state is contributing to the atmosphere and what sectors of the economy are creating emissions.

According to the report, North Carolinas total emissions rose from 150.1 million metric tons of greenhouse gases in 2017 to 159.5 million metric tons in 2018. However, the states total greenhouse gas emissions fell by 23% between 2005 and 2018 even as the population grew by 19%.

The updated inventory shows that North Carolina is making progress and our efforts to cut greenhouse emissions are paying off. It also highlights the need for continued focus on the transportation sector to meet our climate goals, said Elizabeth Biser, who leads the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality, in a statement.

North Carolina is on pace to cut emissions 39% from 2005 levels by 2030, the report said, considering the 2021 legislation requiring the energy sector to reduce carbon emissions and other trends. That would be short of the 50% reduction goal Cooper set in his recent order.

More than 80% of North Carolinas emissions come from burning fossil fuels, according to the report. The N.C. Climate Science Report, published in 2020, said warming temperatures in the state are linked with ongoing emissions of greenhouse gases.

The amount of warming will depend on future emissions of heat-trapping gases, according to the report.

The transportation sector produced 35.9% of the states greenhouse gas emissions in 2018, according to the emissions inventory, followed by the energy sector (32.8%) and agriculture (6.6%).

Kym Hunter, a Southern Environmental Law Center senior attorney, said the transportation sector has really been a neglected area of focus for this state when we think about climate change. Weve made some good strides in the power sector, but this report is a wake-up call.

House Bill 951, signed into law last year, requires Duke Energy to achieve a 70% reduction in emissions from its power-generating operations by 2030.

In January, Cooper signed Executive Order 246, which turns the states attention toward cutting emissions from transportation and tries to ensure that the states energy transition benefits all groups of people.

Goals in the executive order include having 1.2 million zero-emissions vehicles registered in North Carolina by 2030, with those cars making up half of new sales by that date.

The greenhouse gas emissions inventory states that transportation emissions are expected to decline more slowly than energy sector emissions, at least under existing policies. Hunter, the SELC attorney, agrees, citing North Carolinas car- and truck-heavy lifestyle and urban cores looped by highway systems.

Its not just as simple as shifting from coal to renewable sources, Hunter said. This is fundamentally about how people get around and how they live their lives and it takes the cooperation of actors at every level of government and ultimately is going to require some lifestyle changes.
LINCOLN  Nebraskas first governor, David Butler, was impeached, convicted and removed from office for mishandling about $17,000 of federal school funds. That was in 1871.

Now one state lawmaker wants to let Nebraska voters remove future governors and members of the Legislature through the recall process.

State Sen. Tom Briese of Albion introduced Legislative Resolution 268CA, which would amend the State Constitution to allow for such recalls. Details of the process would have to be determined by future legislation.

On Wednesday, he told members of the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee that the proposal fits with Nebraskas long-standing tradition that the people act as the second house of government and can make laws through initiative and referendum petitions.

Allowing recalls of state elected officials would make it possible to get bad actors out of office without having to wait for the next election, he said. State law already allows recalls of local elected officials.

I think it is a process Nebraskans would use judiciously, but I think it is a process they deserve to have in place, Briese said, pointing to the experience of other states.

Doug Kagan with Nebraska Taxpayers for Freedom endorsed the measure, saying that it would encourage officials to be more responsive and accountable to constituents. He said members of his group get frustrated now when candidates do not keep their campaign promises, and recall elections would be a way to address that issue.

Kagan also said he would favor expanding the proposal to include other state elected offices, such as state auditor, attorney general and secretary of state.

No one appeared at Wednesdays hearing to speak against the measure.

Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue questioned the potential cost of a special recall election. She suggested that the measure require recall votes to be held at the next upcoming election.

Currently, 20 states allow for the recall of governors, including Colorado and Kansas. Four gubernatorial recall elections have been held, and two governors have been recalled, North Dakotas Gov. Lynn Frazier in 1921 and Californias Gov. Gray Davis in 2003.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom survived a recall election last year, as did Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker in 2012.

The 19 states that allow for the recall of state legislators have had 39 recall elections, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Voters recalled 22 of those lawmakers, although two resigned before the election results were certified.
gettyimagesbank





The ratio of the self-employed and other non-wage workers in Korea dropped to an all-time low in 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, government data showed Thursday.







Asia's fourth-largest economy had 6.52 million unsalaried workers as of the end of December last year, marking the 23rd consecutive year of decline, according to the data compiled by Statistics Korea.







The number accounted for 23.9 percent of the country's total employed people, the lowest tally since data tracking began in 1963.







After peaking at 69.3 percent in 1964, the ratio has been on a steady decline, falling below the 50 percent mark for the first time in 1984.







Of the total non-wage workers, self-employed people numbered 5.51 million last year, with the rest working at family-run operations without pay.







In contrast, there were 20.75 million salaried workers in Korea, taking up 76.1 percent of all workers. The number was up 51.9 percent from 20 years earlier.







Despite its steady decline, Korea's portion of non-wage workers was still higher than that in other major advanced economies, ranking eighth among the comparable 35 members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) as of 2019.







Comparable figures were 6.1 percent for the United States and 10 percent for Japan, according to the data. (Yonhap)










The Communist Party of Vietnam is celebrating its 92nd founding anniversary on February 3. (Photo: VNA)

The LPRP and the people of races of Laos warmly congratulate the CPV and Vietnamese people on the great achievements and victories over the last 92 years, said the LPRP Central Committee in its message.

The Lao party said it feels proud to see the great friendship, solidarity and comprehensive partnership between the two Parties, States and peoples, nurtured and tested for decades, have been strengthened and expanded in various fields, bringing benefits to the two peoples, it said, adding the Party, State and people of Laos will do their utmost to preserve and further develop the bilateral ties for peace, friendship and cooperation in the region and the world.

In its message, the CPP Central Committee highly valued what the Party, State and people of Vietnam have achieved over the recent time. It also expressed delight at the growing friendship, solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two sides.

It also pledged to further boost the Vietnam-Cambodia relations in accordance to the motto good neighbours, traditional friendship, and comprehensive and long-term partnership.

The Cambodian party believes that under the leadership of the CPV, the Vietnamese people will achieve more and successfully accomplish goals set in the Resolution of the 13th National Party Congress, the message said.

On this occasion, LPRP Central Committee member and head of its External Relations commission Thoongsavanh Phomvihane has sent greetings to his Vietnamese counterpart Le Hoai Trung./.
"As preventive detention, many government employees and their important leaders are put under house arrest across the State," said sources.

"The security across the State has also been beefed up while police are also keeping a tab on the movement of the government employees," sources added.

The Vijayawada city police have already denied permission for the proposed protest citing COVID-19 restrictions. Apart from that, they have also imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to prevent public gatherings in the city.

The government employees have been demanding from the State government to enhance House Rent Allowances (HRA), Fitment, revive the City Compensatory Allowance apart from several other demands in line with the 11th Pay Revision Commission.

They are also demanding from the state government to publish Ashutosh Mishra committee recommendations on the PRC.

Meanwhile, the government claims that they have implemented the 11th PRC from February 1 and salaries have also been disbursed to the employees.

However, AP PRC Struggle Committee, an employee union, has denied government claims.

Instead, the Committee has announced a 'Chalo Vijayawada' programme on February 3, a 'non-cooperation' on February 5 and an 'indefinite strike' from February 7. (ANI)
Students with multicultural backgrounds attend a foreign language and culture class at an elementary school in Seoul in this file photo. Korea Times file



By Lee Hyo-jin



The number of students from multicultural backgrounds in Korea steadily increased to reach over 160,000 last year, according to government data.



According to the Korea Educational Development Institute, in 2021, there were a total of 160,058 students at elementary, middle and high schools nationwide who were from mixed heritage backgrounds or born to two foreign national parents  a more than threefold increase from 46,954 in 2012.



Of them, 131,522 were born to a Korean national and a foreign national, while both of the parents of the other 28,536 students were of foreign nationality.



By nationality, the number of children with one parent from Vietnam accounted for 32 percent, followed by those with one Chinese parent at 23.6 percent, and those with one parent from the Philippines at 10 percent.



Meanwhile, the share of students with one parent from Japan stood at five percent, a sharp decline from 27.5 percent in 2012.



Experts point out that the growing number of children from diverse backgrounds should be better reflected in government policies.



In order to prepare Korea to be a fully multicultural society, the government has been urged to increase educational programs on multiculturalism, along with policy support for students from mixed heritage backgrounds, who often face difficulties due to discrimination.



Shin Yoon-jeong, a researcher at the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs, said that mixed heritage children can suffer from identity struggles living in Korea, as well as problems if their foreign national parent has an unstable legal status.



Shin called for tailored support measures depending on each child's nationality.



"For (mixed heritage) students who have Korean nationality, the government should offer more support for them to overcome discrimination due to their (im)migrant backgrounds, while more childcare support services and after-school learning programs should be provided to those who have foreign nationalities," she said during a social policy forum held last December.


Brian Cox has admitted he was left 'agog' at Brad Pitt's smoldering good looks when they worked together on Troy.

'I mean I'm straight, you know, but I just thought: "Wow! My God, this guy is stunning,"' Brian, 75, revealed during a new video interview with Vanity Fair.

The 2004 movie told the story of the Trojan War, with Brian playing the invading king Agamemnon and Brad as the peerless fighter Achilles.

Letting it out: Brian Cox has admitted he was left 'agog' at Brad Pitt's smoldering good looks when they worked together on Troy

Brad in Troy: 'I mean I'm straight, you know, but I just thought: "Wow! My God, this guy is stunning,"' Brian, 75, revealed during a new video interview with Vanity Fair

'You know I remember one point you know, just kind of being agog at, you know, at Brad, because you know, he'd never been in costumes like that,' he said.

Brad spent the movie in flesh-flashing armor that allowed him to show off his statuesque figure to sizzling advantage.

Brian quipped that other members of the cast were used to such attire as: 'If we'd done the classical theater, we're always without pants, you know?'

The Succession star remembered that 'Brad walked on and my jaw was down because he was so stunningly beautiful. I mean I'm straight, you know, but I just thought: "Wow! My God, this guy is stunning. What chance does one have on the screen with this beautiful, beautiful man?"'

Who's who: Troy told the story of the Trojan War, with Brian playing the invading king Agamemnon (pictured) and Brad as the peerless fighter Achilles

Heartthrob: 'You know I remember one point you know, just kind of being agog at, you know, at Brad, because you know, he'd never been in costumes like that,' Brian said

Directed by Wolfgang Petersen, the movie boasted a star-studded cast that included Diane Kruger, Orlando Bloom and Eric Bana.

Brian referred to Agamemnon as 'the only part I've ever pursued. I've never pursued anything. I've always allowed it to fall out the way it fell out. But I knew the part was available and I knew that I was dead right for the role of Agamemnon.'

He even 'volunteered to fly myself to London to meet Wolfgang Petersen. I think it'd been offered, the part had been offered to Ben Kingsley. And I had this meeting and it went incredibly well. I got the role.'

Brian has been promoting the US publication of his gossipy new memoir Putting The Rabbit In The Hat, which was released in the UK last year.

When you got it: Brad spent the movie in flesh-flashing armor that allowed him to show off his statuesque figure to sizzling advantage

'This beautiful, beautiful man': The Succession star remembered that 'Brad walked on and my jaw was down because he was so stunningly beautiful'

The book contains a candid quote about his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, who plays Logan's troubled, pompous son Kendall.

Jeremy was widely mocked recently after a New Yorker profile portrayed him as being humorless and full of himself, especially in his dedication to Method acting.

'Ill put up with anything as long as the result is good. For example, Jeremy Strong, who plays Kendall in Succession,' Brian wrote in his own book.

'I dont always agree with him regarding the way he prepares or the way he does things, but his "process" is his business. Its nothing to do with me; as long as it never gets in the way when we actually play the scene then thats fine, and, as it happens, its always great,' he added kindly.

New work: Brian has been promoting the US publication of his gossipy new memoir Putting The Rabbit In The Hat, which was released in the UK last year

He was rather less diplomatic about other celebs, including his onetime co-star Steven Seagal whom he called 'as ludicrous in real life as he appears on screen.'

Johnny Depp meanwhile was taken to task for being 'so overblown, so overrated,' with Brian adding: 'I mean, Edward Scissorhands. Lets face it, if you come on with hands like that and pale, scarred-face make-up, you dont have to do anything. And he didnt. And subsequently, hes done even less.'

Brian subsequently softened his position, telling Yahoo! that 'I really do not disrespect anybody involved in this profession because I know how difficult it is. Now, I may have reservations about their talent, but I certainly don't disrespect them. And my reservations about Johnny Depp are minimal - absolutely minimal.

'You know, I do think he's sometimes overblown, but I actually think he's also done some considerable work. Some of his work has really been extraordinarily good.'
A Belgian Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon, left, and a U.S. Air Force McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle tactical fighter on display during media day at the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic States at the Amari Air Base, Estonia, Feb. 1. NATO allies made the decision to send an augmentation detachment to the NATO Air Policing Mission once again in the context of Russia's further increasing tensions along Ukraine's borders and with regard to the necessity to strengthen the security of NATO's eastern allies, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Bulgaria. EPA-Yonhap





President Joe Biden is ordering 2,000 U.S.-based troops to Poland and Germany and shifting 1,000 more from Germany to Romania, demonstrating to both allies and foes America's commitment to NATO's eastern flank amid fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Pentagon said Wednesday.







Russia fired back with a sharply worded objection, calling the deployments unfounded and ''destructive.''







Russian President Vladimir Putin also had a new telephone exchange with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. But readouts from both governments showed no progress, with Putin saying the West was giving no ground on Russia's security concerns and Johnson expressing deep concern about Russia's ''hostile activity'' on the Ukrainian border, referring to Putin's buildup of 100,000 troops there.







The Biden administration is aiming to demonstrate U.S. resolve without undermining efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis. Biden notably has not sent military reinforcements to the three Baltic countries on NATO's eastern flank  Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania  that are former states of the Soviet Union.







No U.S. troops are being sent to Ukraine, and White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Wednesday the administration has stopped calling a Russian invasion ''imminent,'' because that word implies Washington knows Putin has made a decision to invade. Officials say Putin's intentions remain unclear.







However, increasing U.S. troop levels in Eastern Europe is exactly what Putin has said he finds intolerable, along with the prospect of Ukraine joining NATO. The U.S. already has several thousand troops in Poland, and Romania is host to a NATO missile defense system that Russia considers a threat. The U.S. presence in the region has increased since 2014 when Russia made its first invasion of Ukraine.







Pentagon spokesman John Kirby takes a question from a reporter during a briefing at the Pentagon in Washington, Feb. 2, 2022. AP-Yonhap





Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the soon-to-deploy U.S. forces are intended to temporarily bolster U.S. and allied defensive positions.







''These are not permanent moves,'' he said, stressing that the purpose is to reassure allies. Kirby said Russia had continued its buildup, even in the previous 24 hours, despite U.S. urgings that it de-escalate.







In Moscow, a senior official said the U.S. movements will complicate the crisis.







''The unfounded destructive steps will only fuel military tensions and narrow the field for political decisions,'' Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said in remarks carried by the Interfax news agency.







Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba again played down fears of a Russian attack in a call with reporters but said that if Russia makes moves that could signal an imminent invasion Ukraine would react as necessary.







Of the 2,000 U.S. troops newly deploying from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, about 1,700 are members of the 82nd Airborne Division infantry brigade, who will go to Poland. The other 300 are with the 18th Airborne Corps and will go to Germany as what the Pentagon called a ''joint task force-capable headquarters.''







Poland's Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak wrote on Twitter that the deployment to his country is ''a strong signal of solidarity in response to the situation in Ukraine.''







The 1,000 U.S. troops going to Romania are members of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment based at Vilseck, Germany. They will augment about 900 already in Romania, Kirby said.







The cavalry deployment's purpose is to ''deter aggression and enhance our defensive capabilities in frontline allied states during this period of elevated risk,'' the Pentagon said in a separate written statement.







''It's important that we send a strong signal to Mr. Putin and to the world'' of the U.S commitment to NATO, Kirby said.







He said France has decided it, too, will send troop reinforcements to Romania under NATO command, and he noted that a number of other European NATO countries are considering adding forces on NATO's eastern flank. Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron touched base in a phone call Wednesday night.







A Ukrainian border guard patrols the border with Russia not far from the village of Hoptivka in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine, Feb. 2. AP-Yonhap





NATO has been beefing up its defenses around allies in Eastern Europe since late last year. Denmark, for example, said it was sending a frigate and F-16 warplanes to Lithuania, and Spain was sending four fighter jets to Bulgaria and three ships to the Black Sea to join NATO naval forces. The Netherlands plans to send two F-35 fighter aircraft to Bulgaria in April and is putting a ship and land-based units on standby for NATO's Response Force.







Biden has said he will not put American troops in Ukraine to fight any Russian incursion, although the United States is supplying Ukraine with weapons to defend itself and seeking to reassure allies in Eastern Europe that Washington will fulfill its treaty obligation to defend them in the event they are attacked.







Ukraine is not a NATO member, and therefore the U.S. has no treaty obligation to come to its defense.







The military moves come amid stalled talks with Russia over its buildup on Ukraine's borders. And they underscore growing fears across Europe that Russian President Putin is poised to invade. Smaller NATO countries on the alliance's eastern flank worry they could be next.







The Pentagon also has put about 8,500 U.S.-based troops on higher alert for possible deployment to Europe as additional reassurance to allies, and officials have indicated the possibility that additional units could be placed on higher alert soon. The U.S. already has between 75,000 and 80,000 troops in Europe as permanently stationed forces and as part of regular rotations in places such as Poland.







Washington and Moscow have been at loggerheads over Ukraine, with little sign of a diplomatic path forward. However, Kirby on Wednesday confirmed the validity of a document reported by a Spanish newspaper that indicated the United States could be willing to enter into an agreement with Russia to ease tensions over missile deployments in Europe if Moscow steps back from the brink in Ukraine.







The daily El Pais published two documents that Kirby confirmed were written replies from the United States and NATO last week to Russia's proposals for a new security arrangement in Europe. The U.S. State department declined to comment on them.







In reference to the second document, NATO said that it never comments on ''alleged leaks.'' But the text closely reflects statements made to the media last week by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg as he laid out the 30-nation military organization's position on Russia's demands.







The U.S. document, marked as a confidential ''non-paper,'' said the United States would be willing to discuss in consultation with its NATO partners ''a transparency mechanism to confirm the absences of Tomahawk cruise missiles at Aegis Ashore sites in Romania and Poland.''







That would happen on condition that Russia ''offers reciprocal transparency measures on two ground-launched missiles bases of our choosing in Russia.''







Aegis Ashore is a system for defending against short- or intermediate-range missiles. Russia argues the site in Romania could be easily adapted to fire cruise missiles instead of interceptors, a claim that Washington has denied.







In his first public remarks on the standoff in more than a month, Tuesday, Putin accused the U.S. and its allies of ignoring Russia's central security demands but said that Moscow is willing to keep talking.







Russia invaded Georgia in 2008, and in 2014 annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and provided military support for a pro-Russian separatist movement in eastern Ukraine. Around 14,000 people have been killed in that conflict. (AP)


Neighbors of the South Street cell tower hold signs urging the Board of Health to take action and protect their help.

Pittsfield Health Board Ordering Verizon to Remove Cell Tower

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  The Board of Health on Wednesday unanimously agreed to send Verizon a cease and desist order to remove its cell tower at 877 South St.

It will be held in abeyance for seven days and if the wireless provider does not agree to have a meeting with the board and demonstrate a desire to cooperate to the board's satisfaction, it will go into effect.



Board members acknowledged that this action is a long shot and would be expensive to the city if it has to go to court, but they said they felt it is their duty to do everything they can to protect the health of residents.



Since the tower's erection in August 2020, Alma Street resident Courtney Gilardi has spoken during open microphone about negative health effects from electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by the antennae on the 115-foot pole. Other residents have recently joined her protests.



"There is a very good chance that we will not win this, and in some ways, we know that Verizon is following the FCC guidelines in some way, which right now we know are not protective enough of public health," Chair Bobbie Orsi said.



"One of the options that I talked about with [City Solicitor Stephen Pagnotta] was interesting to me, and he called it a halfway option, what that means is that we vote to do a cease and desist order and if Verizon does not come to the table in seven days, that order becomes real.



"So we basically vote to issue a cease and desist order and then give them seven days to notify us that they will come in and have a conversation that will show and demonstrate a sufficient commitment to resolve the issues that we're having at that cell tower address."



The board would like Verizon to agree within the order's deadline to a meeting in two weeks.



After a cease and desist is issued, the proof of harm will be on the board. Pagnotta advised them to have ample support and evidence.



Recently, Orsi received one document from a medical professional of a patient in the area of the cell tower that has electromagnetic hypersensitivity, or microwave syndrome.



She felt that this, testimony from Gilardi and her family, and testimony from other residents in the neighborhood is substantial proof of harm. Eight people spoke of symptoms or in opposition to the cell tower during the meeting.

One resident who abuts the tower reported having unexplained tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, from the EMF.

"It is just very disruptive to our neighborhood, even if they're getting sick or not, they're kind of worrying, thinking 'is this going to happen to me next?' because it took a little while before mine kicked in," he said.

"And I think that's really what everybody is looking for is feeling safe about it and we could really use your help in setting a standard going forward, wherever it may take us."
Based on a mutual agreement, Afghanistan's Ministry of Transportation and Civil Aviation said, "Afghan and Qatari airlines will be conducting flights to Doha-Kabul each week," reported Tolo News.

"The Islamic Emirate and Qatar made an agreement to start flights between Kabul-Doha. The Afghan airlines will conduct flights to Doha, and Qatari airlines will fly to Kabul," said Imamuddin Ahmadi, a spokesman for the ministry.

According to experts, the start of flights between Kabul and Doha will boost Afghanistan's aviation industry, reported Tolo News.

"The start of flights from Qatar to Afghanistan and from Afghanistan to Qatar is a major step for Afghanistan aviation," said Sayed Masoud, an economist.

The former head of the Afghanistan Civil Aviation Authority (ACAA), said that the flights between Kabul and Qatar would help reduce the price of tickets and improve the aviation service in the country.

"It can be helpful as Afghanistan relies on its two main transit hubs like Turkey and the UAE for flights. Qatar Airways is a famous airline which is permitted to fly to 173 destinies," said Mohammad Qassim Wafayizada, former head of the ACAA.

According to Wafayizada, Kabul and Doha signed an agreement on bilateral air aviation cooperation in 2005, but due to political issues the direct flights between the two countries did not happen, reported Tolo News.

Earlier on Tuesday, Qatar agreed with the Taliban to resume chartered evacuation flights from the Kabul airport after talks between the two sides.

Meanwhile, a trilateral meeting among Turkey, Qatar and the Taliban officials had agreed on several key issues on how to manage and operate Kabul Airport. (ANI)
The Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council voted to remove current President Donna Fisher from office Wednesday.

The 8-2 vote held in the Littlewolf Capitol Building in Lame Deer followed a nearly six-hour hearing that stemmed from a complaint filed by Northern Cheyenne Vice President Serena Wetherelt against the president. The complaint followed Fishers handling of a tribal employees alleged misuse of a tribal credit card.

The president did not support my actions when I terminated the chief of staff. Instead, the president continued her employment, took no action to take away the tribal credit card and protected her from any sanctions or disciplinary action, Wetherelt said in her closing statement.

Fisher named Wetherelt as acting president for two days in early December 2021. During that time, Northern Cheyenne officials informed Wetherelt that several purchases were made with a tribal credit card that did not follow proper financial procedures. The errant charges totaled about $7,000, according to Wetherelts complaint filed with the tribal council in January.

When Wetherelt attempted to terminate the employee over the matter, the employee refused to accept the termination letter. During subsequent conversations with Fisher once she returned to office, and according to testimony shared in Wednesdays hearing, Fisher told the vice president that she was acting outside of her authority in taking on personnel issues. Wetherelt said in her complaint that Fisher showed gross neglect in her duty as president.

The tribal employee named in the complaint, Shawna Cooper, testified in the hearing that all of her purchases were made for the benefit of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. Those purchases included office supplies and tech for tribal employees. She was able to account for all of the purchases through receipts that she provided at the hearing. She told council members that she received little to no guidance on proper use of the credit card, which is backed by funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, and how to coordinate those purchases with tribal finance officials.

Northern Cheyenne Councilmember Norma Gourneau said although she was disturbed by the lack of oversight in how a tribal credit card was used, the matter at hand was how President Fisher handled the matter when it was brought to light.

This hearing isnt about the personnel action Our issue is why didnt the president support the vice president when an issue came up? she said.

John Robinson, legal counsel for Fisher, said in his closing statement to the tribal council that even if the allegations against Fisher were true, they would not meet the standard for gross neglect. He and witnesses called to testify on behalf of Fisher said Wetherelt sidestepped procedures in place for terminating a tribal employee. The complaint and removal hearing also sidestepped the due process owed to Fisher, as dating errors appeared on the complaint submitted to the council.

Tribal Chief Judge David Roundstone acted as the hearing officer. He frequently called the members attending to order, using his cell phone as a gavel, as council members heard testimony from Fisher, Wetherelt and several witnesses who testified.

Fisher stood near the door of the chamber as council members voiced their vote. When the final vote was reached, she left the room. She is the third Northern Cheyenne president to be removed from office through a tribal council vote in the past 10 years.

In a tribal council meeting after the removal hearing, Wetherelt assumed the role of acting president until a new president is elected through a special election. That election must take place within the next three months, according to the tribal election ordinance. The council is scheduled to establish an election date during its bi-monthly meeting Feb. 7.
Married at First Sight star Ella Ding has shared her frustrations after being dubbed 'the horny bride' by viewers two days into the show.

The Melbourne beautician, 27, nabbed the nickname after flirting outrageously with her groom Mitchell Eynaud on Tuesday's episode - which included biting her lip, showering him with compliments and leaning in for some steamy kisses.

Ella confessed she's disappointed that her saucy antics took centre stage, saying: 'It sucks because there was so much more to the night than licking lips and kissing.'

Scroll down for video

Saucy: Married at First Sight star Ella Ding has shared her frustrations after being dubbed 'the horny bride' by viewers two days into the show

Ella explained there was a reason behind her lip-biting and heavy breathing antics - and it wasn't because she was trying to flirt.

'I was also licking my lips because they were very dry and I was incredibly nervous,' she told The Herald Sun. 'The deep breaths were also because I was freezing cold.

'They were making it like I cant hold back. Hopefully theyll show a lot more of the journey, its so much more than sexual chemistry.'

Following their nuptials on Tuesday's episode, the pair couldn't keep their hands off each other and passionately made out while a wedding photographer snapped away.

Will they last? The Melbourne beautician, 27, nabbed the nickname after she was seen flirting outrageously with her groom Mitchell Eynaud (right) on Tuesday's episode, biting her lip and showering him with compliments in the hours after they 'married'

When asked by a producer if she felt any sexual chemistry, Ella gushed: 'F**k yeah, he's gorgeous!'

Despite the attraction between them, Ella promised not to sleep with Mitch on the first night because of her 'three date rule'.

Once they got back to their hotel room, the brunette beauty seemed to struggle with sticking to the plan.

'I can't wait to see him with his shirt off,' she told producers, before adding: 'I might need a cold shower.'

'I was also licking my lips because they were very dry and I was incredibly nervous,' she said. 'The deep breaths were also because I was freezing cold'

Sizzling: When asked by a producer if she felt any sexual chemistry, Ella gushed: 'F**k yeah, he's gorgeous!'

Once they were in bed, the newly-married couple shared a passionate kiss underneath the blanket before rolling over and turning off the lights.

Viewers couldn't get enough of the Ella's flirtatious behaviour towards her new husband.

'This has become horny at first sight,' one fan cheekily tweeted.

'Ella has sex in her eyes,' a second wrote, while a third added: 'I think Ella's meal was spiked with some horny goat weed'.

Married At First Sight continues Thursday at 7.30pm on Channel Nine


Youanmi Regional Aircore Drilling Identifies New Targets

Perth, Feb 3, 2022 AEST (ABN Newswire) - West Australian focused gold exploration and development company, Rox Resources Limited ( ASX:RXL ), in conjunction with its joint venture partner Venus Metals Corporation Limited ( ASX:VMC ) is pleased to announce significant results from aircore drilling on the Youanmi Regional JV tenements (Rox 50% and Manager, VMC 50%).



This aircore drilling on Regional JV ground intersected regolith gold anomalism associated with interpreted NW trending structures over approximately four kilometres of strike.



The drill program comprised 426 holes for 22,455m and was focussed on the identification of orogenic gold mineralisation over priority target areas on the Youanmi Regional Joint Venture tenements. This drilling was designed to test interpreted northwest trending secondary structures, including numerous demagnetised zones and untested helicopter-borne time-domain electromagnetic conductors over an 18km strike continuation of the Youanmi Shear Zone.



Drill spacing was 80m on 400m-800m spaced lines. Holes were drilled to blade refusal with hole depths ranging from 2 to 99m and an average depth of approximately 53m.



Rox Managing Director Alex Passmore commented:



"Since entering the VMC JV (i.e. Youanmi regional ground) we have recognised the broader Youanmi belt has a history of high-grade discoveries in differing geological settings (e.g. Youanmi, Penny West, Golden Crown, Commonwealth) but remains substantially underexplored. We are extremely pleased to have identified some significant mineralised corridors and zones of gold anomalism beneath the widespread transported cover. Target area 1 to the south of Youanmi mine has returned persistent gold anomalism over 4km in an area featuring a series of NW trending structures and will be followed up in the near term."



2021 Aircore Program



These aircore results provide the first insight into gold potential beneath the transported cover that persists through much of the belt.



Previous explorers had conducted broad spaced RAB exploration drilling along the Youanmi belt, however, most of the historical RAB holes are vertical, shallow and often did not penetrate beneath transported cover. In contrast, the recent aircore holes penetrated well beyond the depths of historical RAB drilling, effectively testing the in-situ regolith beneath transported cover sequences, demonstrating that historical RAB drilling would have been a largely ineffective exploration tool in these areas.



Drilling occurred over 4 target areas shown in Table 1* below. Due to deeper than expected average hole depths (due to only 3 out of the 12 planned drill lines at Target Areas 3 and 4 were completed to stay within budget).



Drilling intersected mainly mafic schist, clastic sediments, and felsic volcanoclastic rocks. Drilling also encountered paleochannel sediments in the northern part of the program.



Most of the drill lines intersected regolith gold anomalism >100ppb (0.1g/t) and many of the anomalous holes ended in mineralisation, indicating a primary source of mineralisation at depth.



New mineralised NW trending structures identified



The recent aircore drilling has highlighted several areas of highly anomalous gold in regolith at Target Areas 1-3 (Figure 1*). Gold anomalism is related to NW trending subsidiary faults that splay off the Youanmi Shear Zone. The Youanmi Shear Zone is a major crustal-scale structure and is likely the first-order fluid pathway for gold mineralisation in the region. The main gold occurrences in the region are related to subsidiary faults and are renowned for high gold grades.



The Regional JV tenements cover more than 50km of strike of the Youanmi Shear Zone. Aircore drilling discussed in the release focused on an area of 18km strike continuation of the Youanmi Shear Zone between the Penny Project (Ramelius Resources) and Youanmi Mine.



At Target Area 1 (Figure 2*), three mineralised structures have been identified from aeromagnetic data over approximately 4km of strike. The interpreted structural corridor is open along strike to the NW in an area where no previous drilling as occurred. Drillholes RXAC718 intersected 16m @ 0.91g/t Au from 56m including 4m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 68m at the end of the hole (Figure 6) and RXAC739 intersected 4m @ 0.85g/t Au from 20m at the junction of the mineralised corridor with the Youanmi Shear Zone.



Approximately 3km NW along strike RXAC581 intersected 12m @ 0.68g/t Au from 48m including 4m @ 1.29 g/t Au from 48m and RXAC575 intersected 5m @ 0.58g/t Au from 52m at the end of the hole. Additionally, gold mineralisation is associated with helicopter-borne time-domain electromagnetic conductors (HTDEM) that may represent sulphide-related gold mineralisation at depth (Figure 2*).



Significant results from the recent programme include:



RXAC718 - 16m @ 0.91g/t Au from 56m to EOH, including 4m @ 2.37 g/t Au from 68m to EOH

RXAC581 - 12m @ 0.68g/t Au from 48m, including 4m @ 1.29 g/t Au from 48m

RXAC780 - 16m @ 0.28g/t Au from 44m

RXAC556 - 4m @ 0.86g/t Au from 24m

RXAC739 - 4m @ 0.85g/t Au from 20m

RXAC575 - 5m @ 0.58g/t Au from 52m to EOH

RXAC670 - 4m @ 0.53g/t Au from 48m to EOH

RXAC683 - 16m @ 0.13g/t Au from 36m

RXAC746 - 3m @ 0.67g/t Au from 40m to EOH

RXAC732 - 3m @ 0.62g/t Au from 24m to EOH

RXAC624 - 8m @ 0.2g/t Au from 32m

RXAC686 - 8m @ 0.2g/t Au from 48m

RXAC605 - 4m @ 0.36g/t Au from 56m

RXAC882 - 4m @ 0.35g/t Au from 32m to EOH

RXAC728 - 7m @ 0.19g/t Au from 28m to EOH

RXAC582 - 4m @ 0.31g/t Au from 48m

RXAC669 - 8m @ 0.13g/t Au from 68m

RXAC582 - 4m @ 0.25g/t Au from 40m

RXAC773 - 4m @ 0.24g/t Au from 28m

RXAC605 - 4m @ 0.23g/t Au from 28m

RXAC529 - 4m @ 0.21g/t Au from 48m

RXAC576 - 4m @ 0.19g/t Au from 48m

RXAC639 - 4m @ 0.18g/t Au from 20m

RXAC534 - 5m @ 0.14g/t Au from 52m to EOH

RXAC529 - 2m @ 0.35g/t Au from 68m to EOH



Next Steps



The next steps in the Youanmi Regional exploration program are planned as:



- Follow up infill and extensional aircore drilling to further define the geometry and extent of oxide mineralisation at Target Areas 1-2, focusing initially on the three mineralised structures at Target Area 1



- Further drilling at Target Areas 3-4



- Regional targeting generation along the strike of the Youanmi Shear Zone



- RC drilling to test the primary mineralised zone identified in RXAC581 and RXAC718



*To view tables and figures, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/PN538WQ2





About Venus Metals Corporation Limited





Venus Metals Corporation Limited (ASX:VMC) is a West Australian based Company with a focus on gold, base metals, vanadium and lithium exploration projects. The Company aims to increase shareholder value through targeted exploration success on its projects.

The Company's major gold project is the Youanmi Gold Mine, located 500km north-east of Perth. The Youanmi Gold Mine is now jointly owned by Venus Metals (30%) and Rox Resources Limited (70%); Indicated and Inferred Resource of the mine is in excess of 3 million ounces of gold.
Employees enter Samsung Electronics' facility in Suwon in this June 11 2020 file photo. Korea Times photo by Hong In-ki



By Baek Byung-yeul



Samsung Electronics has banned its employees from using their smartphones while walking, and people must now wear helmets while using bicycles at its major worksites, as part of its moves to respond to a new workplace disaster law, company officials said Wednesday.



The officials said the company's Device eXperience (DX) Division informed its employees recently that it will implement five safety rules in order to ensure workplace safety.



"We began implementing five safety regulations at major workplaces such as the Suwon facility starting from Jan. 24," a company spokeswoman said.



The five safety rules include prohibitions on jaywalking, the use of smartphones while walking and while driving, a speed limit for vehicles on company facilities and mandatory helmets while riding bicycles. "Not using phones while walking has been a recommendation since 2016, but it has now been banned," the official added.



Visitors to the worksites will also be notified of these five regulations at the time of applying for a visitor pass and during the actual visit, and their access will be restricted for a certain period of time if they violate the regulations without a good reason.



The regulations come at a time when the country begins implementing the industrial accident law that imposes legal responsibility on the CEO or owner of a company that experiences accidents at industrial sites due to lax safety precautions.



Under the law, which took effect Jan. 27, business owners and CEOs can be imprisoned for over one year or fined up to 1 billion won ($830,682) for industrial accidents caused by poor workplace safety measures.



By mandating these safety regulations that are easy to follow in workplaces, Samsung is trying to raise awareness and create an atmosphere of safety practices. The company emphasized to its employees that it should do its best to prevent accidents and that workplace safety is essential, not optional.



This law is expected to be applied to Sampyo Industry, which experienced a landslide accident recently at its quarry. On Jan. 29, the landslide occurred on its quarry slope in Yangju, Gyeonggi Province, leaving three workers dead.



Due to the accident, officials from the Ministry of Employment and Labor conducted a search of the company's offices, Jan. 31. If it is confirmed that company management did not fulfill its obligation to prevent the accident, they can be put on trial and sentenced to more than a year in prison of fined up to 1 billion won.


"On behalf of the many sectors of the travel and aviation industries, we urgently request that the Administration remove the requirement for pre-departure testing for vaccinated passengers travelling to the United States," the organizations said in a letter to White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Jeffrey Zients on Wednesday.

The letter includes support from Airlines for America, the US Travel Association, the US Chamber of Commerce, Airlines for Europe, Global Business Travel Association, among others.

The letter underscores that a decision to roll back testing requirements for vaccinated travellers would be justified considering increased immunity, higher vaccination rates, new COVID-19 treatments, and the pervasiveness of novel coronavirus cases in all US states.

Travel and aviation industries cannot fully recover unless the US government takes steps to remove travel restrictions that appear to no longer be needed, the letter said.

The Biden administration in December tightened travel restrictions for US-bound travellers amid the spread of the Omicron variant, requiring a negative COVID-19 test a day before passengers depart to the United States. The Trump administration previously required US-bound travellers have a negative COVID-19 test at least three days before a flight to the United States. (ANI/Sputnik)
More than one million Coloradans with criminal records could have their records automatically sealed under a bill introduced in the Colorado Senate on Tuesday.

Senate Bill 22-099 would implement an automatic sealing process for non-violent criminal records, including civil infractions, by expanding an existing automatic sealing process exclusive to certain drug offenses. The legislation would apply to those who are eligible to request record sealing under the current system, meaning they have finished their sentence, completed a required waiting period and have not committed another criminal offense.

This comes as Colorado, and the United State at large, is in the midst of a pandemic-induced labor shortage. In July 2021, 7.7% of jobs in Colorado were unfilled  an all-time high for the state, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Supporters of the bill, dubbed the Clean Slate Act, say it will help address the labor shortage by removing a barrier to employment, education and housing for residents with criminal records.

It's the best way for our state to welcome millions of new members to our workforce, said Sara Loflin, executive director of ProgressNow Colorado. Giving rehabilitated Coloradans a real chance to meaningfully rejoin society is good for everyone.

Approximately 1.3 million Coloradans with criminal records are eligible to apply for sealing but have not, according to the Paper Prisons Initiative. The organization said many dont pursue record sealing because the current process, which involves filing a petition with the court and paying a filing fee, is expensive and difficult.

The 1.3 million number came from a study that extrapolated from a sampling of criminal history records that included misdemeanors and petty offenses, as well as some felonies. Many of the charges dealt with civil infractions, notably driving violations, including speeding, careless driving, and failure to show proof of insurance. "Criminal records," in this context, doesn't equate to convicted criminals, as the term "criminal records" applies to people both with convictions and without.

Under the bill, they would have their records sealed without having to take any action.

Opponents to the bill argue that petitioning the court is an essential process.

The Colorado District Attorneys Council said a thoughtful analysis by the court is necessary to decide whether its appropriate to seal a record, especially when it comes to serious felony cases. Though a person may be eligible to apply to seal his or her criminal record, the court could deny the application based on a victims concern or a media outlets need to access records.

The streamlining of the process should not be at the expense of the publics right to know for its own security, safety and common public interest, said Arnold Hanuman, deputy director of the council. Its an important standard that we think needs to be maintained in the law. The bill removes an important legal standard of review.

Hanuman said the Colorado District Attorneys Council is working with the bills sponsors to try to change it to reflect the legal standard, which would include removing the automatic record sealing. He said he is hopeful the parties will be able to come to an agreement.

However, supporters say the automatic record sealing is an integral part of the bill that would benefit the general public by lowering crime. They also cited a 2020 Harvard Law Review study concluded that people who have gotten their criminal records sealed or expunged are less likely to reoffend and pose a lower crime risk than the general population.

In addition, Tiffani Lennon, executive director of Colorado Center on Law and Policy, said the bill would allow previous offenders to support themselves and their families legally by allowing them access to more lucrative employment and stable housing.

We must do what is right for our families and our communities, dismantling the cycle of poverty by clearing the paths of opportunity for those who have served their sentences and are seeking to better their lives, Lennon said. The criminal legal system unfairly targets people of color, and the collateral consequences of criminal records inhibit an individuals ability to get a stable job and safe housing, even decades later.

The bill would also make it an unfair employment practice for employers to fire or refuse to hire an employee because of the contents of a sealed criminal record. Similarly, it would make it an unfair housing practice to refuse to show, sell, transfer, rent or lease housing because of the contents of a sealed criminal record.

The bi-partisan bill is sponsored by Sen. Dennis Hisey, R-Colorado Springs, Sen. Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, and Rep. Kerry Tipper, D-Lakewood. The bill was introduced Tuesday and assigned to the judiciary committee for a hearing.
At least 17 people have died in Argentina after consuming cocaine suspected of containing a poisonous substance, with the cases clustered around several towns in sprawling Buenos Aires province, officials and local media said on Wednesday.

Another 56 people have been hospitalized, a government source told Reuters, adding that more are seeking hospital care in eight of the province's municipalities because of the toxic cocaine.

The source said the death toll, from the towns of Hurlingham, San Martin and Tres de Febrero, will likely rise further.

Buenos Aires province, the country's most populous, is home to many suburbs of the national capital.

Officials believe some of the victims suffered from opioid intoxication, according to a statement from the province's health ministry released Wednesday.

The number of those hospitalized with serious illness is "constantly rising," it added.

Provincial security forces detained some people suspected of selling the drug after the first deaths occurred Wednesday.

Some local media outlets reported that the cocaine had been mixed with a toxic substance, likely by a drug gang looking to reduce costs amid a turf war with rival groups.

"We are waiting for the laboratory results and the results of the investigations into the people who have been detained," the province's security minister told local television.

Reuters could not immediately reach the police and courts for further information.

The local government of Tres de Febrero said in a statement it was aware of people falling seriously ill because of "allegedly adulterated cocaine" and was working with emergency services and hospitals to prevent more deaths.

It urged people to discard any drugs bought recently.

"This isn't a normal investigation," San Martin prosecutor Marcelo Lapargo told local news outlet La Naction+, citing expedited police raids aimed at removing all the tainted cocaine. "What mattered most today was to stop the sales to prevent further deaths."
The drinking water at Meadowlark mobile home park has been deemed safe to drink by the state's Department of Environmental Quality.

The state examined water there last month after black water poured from the taps of Meadowlark residents. Initial tests showed the water was contaminated with the minerals iron and manganese, which DEQ describes as "two unregulated contaminants that are known to cause discoloration of water and general unpalatability."

Water at the mobile home park was dark-colored for about two days before it cleared up. Following the initial tests, DEQ returned two weeks ago to perform in-depth tests "representative of the distribution system."

The technician tested water from the system's entry point, from a mid-point and from a residence, the end of the distribution system.

"The locations of the three samples taken...address the changing water quality conditions as water ages in the pipe," said Moira Davin, a spokeswoman with DEQ.

Tests found the water itself was clean, specifically showing no traces of coliform, a harmful bacteria spread through animal and human waste, or e-coli, a specific type of coliform.

Residents at the park have long complained about water quality at Meadowlark. Frustrations have grown since 2020 when Utah-based Havenpark Communities purchased the park.

In its investigation of Meadowlark, DEQ learned that Havenpark had hauled in 12 loads of water and placed it in the system's storage tank in December and January. Residents worried that the water hauled in by Havenpark would obscure Meadowlark's ongoing water problems or cover up the contamination.

According to DEQ, a typical load of water isnt enough to effectively alter the water's quality. Meadowlark's system storage tank holds 88,000 gallons and a typical load of water is 4,000 gallons.

"During the inspection there was no evidence that any water had been delivered either early in the day or over the weekend prior to the visit," Davin said. "Because the three samples taken on Jan. 24 were spread throughout the distribution system, the water was of different ages. Therefore the water quality was unique in each sample and all sample results were satisfactory."

DEQ had been working with Meadowlark since early December "to provide technical assistance during a treatment plant failure," Davin said.

The plant failed when its filtration system broke. The water system at Meadowlark is roughly 60 years old and runs off of well water, which is cleaned and filtered as it moves through the system. Iron and manganese began to show up in the water last month as a result of the failed filtration system.

Havenpark officials have ordered the parts needed to repair the system and are now just waiting for them to arrive.

Havenpark has acknowledged that Meadowlark has had ongoing water issues, but it maintains the water was always safe to drink, despite the color. Water from Meadowlark's system is tested regularly for bacteria and samples are sent monthly to the DEQ.
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Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Monday granted bail to the husband of a 21-year-old law student who died by suicide leaving behind a note blaming him, his parents and a police officer for taking the extreme step.

Justice Gopinath P said that since the husband has spent more than 65 days in custody and the final report has been filed in the case, his continued detention was not necessary.

With this observation, the court granted him the relief subject to certain conditions which would be available in the detailed order.

The victim's parents-in-law were granted bail by the court on January 4 on which date it had denied the husband the same relief saying the allegations against him were very serious.

Subsequently, the husband had moved a second bail plea claiming that the police officer was responsible for the law student taking the extreme step.

The victim's husband and in-laws were arrested on November 24 last year and a case registered against them under Sections 304B (dowry death), 498A (dowry harassment), 306 (abetment of suicide) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code.

While the maximum punishment for dowry death is life imprisonment, it is three years' jail term for dowry harassment and 10 years for abetment of suicide.

In her suicide note, Mofia Parveen, the third-year law student, had alleged that the then SHO of Aluva East Police Station had misbehaved with her when she went there with her father to give her statement regarding her complaint of dowry harassment and domestic violence against her husband and in-laws.

The incident had created an uproar in the state and the officer was relieved of his charge and later suspended.

According to Mofia's father, he went to the station with his daughter to give her statement and she had made it clear before going there that she did not want her submission to be recorded in her husband's presence.

However, the officer spoke to them in her husband's presence and also spoke inappropriately and rudely to him and his daughter, the father told the media and added that it was the officer's conduct that demoralised her.

After returning home, she was worried whether police would take any action in view of the officer's conduct at the station, the father of the student had claimed and said that she hanged herself in her room later that day.




By Anna J. Park







The International Finance Center (IFC) Seoul, located in the Yeouido financial district of the capital, is searching for a new owner.







According to the investment banking (IB) industry, Eastdil Secured  a New York-based global real estate investment banking company  has been managing the sale process, and a total of five institutional investors were shortlisted for the purchase during the past month: ARA Korea, Mastern Investment Management, KORAMCO REITs & Trust, IGIS Asset Management and MIDAS Asset Management.







Eastdil Secured is expected to select a preferred bidder out of the potential buyers sometime this month, after conducting further research and due diligence on the shortlisted candidates.







The building complex  comprised of three IFC Office Towers, Conrad Seoul Hotel and IFC Mall  was jointly developed by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and AIG Group starting in 2006.







Currently, Toronto-headquartered Brookfield Asset Management owns IFC Seoul, after purchasing it in 2016 from the previous owner, AIG Group, for around 2.5 trillion won ($2.06 billion). As the IFC Seoul complex is estimated to be worth up to 4 trillion won, Brookfield is expected to rake in a profit of some 1.5 trillion won after just six years of ownership.







The five shortlisted potential buyers have each partnered with solid financial institutions to secure funding for the acquisition deal.







Both ARA Korea and Mastern Investment have partnered with NH Investment & Securities to secure the necessary funds for the real estate purchase. ARA Korea cooperated with NH Investment in other real estate investments in recent years. The asset management company and NH Investment jointly purchased Seoul Square for 988 billion won and Parc1 Tower for 955 billion won.







KORAMCO REITs & Trust has joined hands with Samsung Securities to finance the deal, while the company appointed Avison Young Korea as an acquisition advisory firm, aiming to search for potential overseas investors for the deal. Avison Young is a global commercial real estate company headquartered in Toronto, which shares a common regional background with the current owner of IFC Seoul, Brookfield Asset Management.







MIDAS Asset Management has partnered with overseas investors for the IFC Seoul acquisition deal. The asset management company has a track record of acquiring some 950 billion won worth of assets and aims to increase its asset investment volume with the IFC Seoul deal.




All eyes are on Russian President Vladimir Putin, as he has amassed more than 100,000 troops near the borders of Ukraine. Experts say Putin may have placed himself in a difficult position in an effort to elevate Russia's standing in the world. VOA's Cindy Saine reports. Producer: Mary Cieslak
For the last eight years, Ukraine has lived under a permanent state of alert, with the constant threat of Russian intervention in its territory. The fear and tension have led many civilians to seek military training to be prepared in the event of a conflict.
During the 2010 redistricting cycles, the writing was on the wall for many of the conservative areas that had been electing Democrats for a very long time.

That writing said it was time to go, and since then, Republicans have dominated across many states at the local and state levels.

During this cycle, however, it was Republicans who had to proceed with caution as they drew their maps. Indianas new districts were drawn in such a way that it was to protect incumbents mainly.

With the surge to the left in Indianas 5th district, Republicans chose not to nuke Indianas 1st and shored up the 5th with some rural areas to pad it.

In Texas, Republicans drew maps that may keep some areas safe, but by the end of the decade, they will be ceding those seats to the Democrats.

Down in Georgia, the state legislature took an aggressive approach, but it too will backfire as the areas surrounding Atlanta and the exurbs there are growing exponentially with tons of new Democratic voters to add to their ranks.

Republicans in 2010 did not have to worry about whether or not they were going to lose the suburban areas so they were able to get away with many maps that they simply cannot make today.

Democrats also have advantages in many states that they did not have last decade.

Pennsylvanias Republican Party tried to pass a Republican gerrymandered map, but the States Supreme Court has decided to stop the implementation of the map and may choose to pick the map themselves.

Since the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is Democrat dominated, it is likely that they will not be choosing the one that was set to go into effect.

A federal court in Alabama said that they needed to include another Voting Rights Act district, which would mean essentially another seat for the Democrats. This also has implications for maps in North and South Carolina too.

Louisiana Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards is pushing through adding a second VRA district there too, adding another Democratic seat to Louisianas delegation.

Michigan and Californias independent redistricting committees both had maps that were favorable for the Democrats and the Florida legislature is in disagreement with Governor Ron DeSantis due to there being violations of the VRA in DeSantis proposed map.

In Kansas, which happens to have a Democratic Governor, the gerrymandered map that would have endangered the only sitting Democrat in the House from Kansas was vetoed. We will likely see the same from Wisconsin.

In Maine, Jared Golden, the man who far outpaced Biden in a seat Trump won, got a more favorable district. New Mexico made all three of their districts blue, eliminating a Republican seat.

That is all without talking about Illinois and New York, who are taking a very aggressive approach to redistricting. Democrats in Illinois eliminated two Republican seats and New York Democrats are looking at eliminating four or five Republican seats.

Though it will be difficult for Democrats to hold onto the House in the midterms, their luck in this cycle has been almost perfect. They only lost a little ground in a few states, but they held on where they could, added on where they could, and ceded ground only when they had to.

Gerrymandering is not a healthy practice for democracy because democracy requires competition. Neither party seems to be interested in that at the moment.

I will you leave with this though. There is a growing anti-democracy wing that has been growing in the GOP. The former president made that clear at his last rally, striking vicious attacks at those looking into his malfeasance and corruption as president.

Sadly, on the ballot in 2022, the question is, are you for democracy or are you against it?

Maybe someday the Republican Party will regain the actual conservative values it once stood for, but until then, that is the question on every ballot until they drop the former president and move on from his platform.

So, despite the practice of gerrymandering being bad for democracy, in this instance it could be one that saves it.
"The two leaders affirmed their support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and reviewed our ongoing coordination on both diplomacy and preparations to impose swift and severe economic costs on Russia should it further invade Ukraine," said the White House in a press release.

"President Biden and President Macron agreed their teams will stay in close touch, including in consultation with NATO Allies and EU partners, on our coordinated and comprehensive approach to managing these issues," the release added.

It came as the US Defence Department announced on Wednesday the extra US forces will deploy to Poland, Germany and Romania in the next several days.

The Defense Department is sending 2,000 US troops to Europe in the next several days in response to the Ukraine crisis, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday.

Most of the 2,000 troops will be deployed in Poland and the deployment will be temporal, he said. (ANI)
Tucson voters will be asked to approve a new ballot initiative called Proposition 411 this May, a measure that could provide $740 million to repave residential roads and upgrade street safety over the next 10 years.

The new measure wont raise taxes and will instead generate cash by extending a half-cent sales tax thats been collected in Tucson since 2017 through Prop. 101, which has has produced hundreds of millions in revenue but is set to expire in June.

City officials need that tax revenue to continue if they hope to make progress on Move Tucson, a transportation master plan to address all of Tucsons road work needs over the next 20 years. It will require a 50% boost in transportation funding over that period, or an extra $128 million annually.

Prop. 411s approval in May would put a serious dent in that goal, increasing road work funding by $52 million each year while allowing the city to repave all of its residential streets over the next decade.

But the new measure isnt a straightforward extension of Prop. 101. Officials chose to exclusively focus on local street projects this time around, removing the public safety funding element that provided about $30 million to city offices like the Tucson Police Department under the 2017 sales tax, for instance.

Being able to extend that investment for the next 10 years, that half-cent sales tax, will give us the opportunity to reach all of the neighborhood streets in the city of Tucson, Mayor Regina Romero said. It is super important to be able to make that investment in our community.

The plan for the proposition was finalized after a unanimous City Council vote on Tuesday. It will split the revenue into two categories, similar to previous ballot measures like Prop. 101.

About 80% of the Prop. 411 funds  or more than $59 million annually  will go toward repaving local streets, an effort that wont be covered by any other transportation funding initiatives if the new measure doesnt pass this spring.

Residential streets are our responsibility and thats the reason I think its so important for this council to really stick with this sales tax, Councilman Steve Kozachik said.

The remaining 20% of Prop. 411 funds will go to roadway safety improvements like upgraded traffic signals and new streetlights. That shakes out to about $15 million each year dedicated to helping Tucson achieve its Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic fatalities.

Were killing too many people in this city. Weve endorsed Vision Zero, and I think the addition of the safety and outside the curb line elements are going to help us with getting closer to that goal, Kozachik said. Were nowhere near it yet, so I think thats an important piece of it.

Although the new initiative is virtually identical to Prop. 101 in many ways, there are some significant differences between the two measures. For example, Prop. 411 could be approved for a 10-year window or double the life span of the 2017 sales tax.

But the biggest change is where those funds are going: More than half of the Prop. 101 money was used to cover vehicle, equipment and facility costs for public safety offices like the Tucson Police and Fire departments. Thats all been completely cut from the upcoming Prop. 411 measure.

City officials vowed to use at least $18 million in general fund money during each of the next five years to make up for excluding those offices  which also includes the 911 call center  from receiving the new sales tax revenue. Thats still 40% less money than public safety has been receiving under Prop. 101, however.

TPD Chief Chad Kasmar said he supports Prop. 411 despite being cut out of the initiative, calling city street repair a critical community need. Similar sentiments were also expressed by fire department officials.

The important piece to keep in mind is that the needs continue into the future. Vehicles age, equipment ages and changes in technology occur rapidly, often rendering some equipment functionally obsolete within three to five years, said Fire Chief Chuck Ryan. ($90 million over the next five years) is a significant investment and will help keep the momentum created by Prop 101. I am committed to working with the city manager to responsibly and realistically present the unmet needs, prioritize them, and find ways to fund them within existing revenue streams to ensure quality service delivery for the community well into the future.

Improvement projects on collector roads, which lead from small streets onto main roads, were also cut from the Prop. 411 initiative. Officials vowed to use other funds to cover that exclusion as well but did not specify the funding level.

Regardless, a no vote on Prop. 411 wont change where the money goes because voters wont have the option to tweak the ballot language. The only thing residents can now decide is whether to greenlight the multimillion-dollar initiative or vote against it, which would cripple the citys ability to fill potholes on residential streets.

Prop. 411 will appear on the ballot during Tucsons special election thats scheduled for May 17. If approved by city voters, an oversight committee will be established to publicly track how the tax revenue is used.
What animation did it finance? Lots. Examples include the preschool series Odo, which was picked up by Warnermedias Cartoonito block in the U.S.; another preschool series, Milo, which has gone to Cartoonito in Latin America; the darkly comic hybrid series Dont Hug Me Im Scared; the film Sol, which was aired in Scottish Gaelic and other local languages; Circle Square, from the Brothers McLeod; and Aardmans upcoming Lloyd of the Flies.

Why was the YACF launched in the first place? When it started in 2019, British commercial broadcasters spending on childrens shows had been in freefall for years as ad revenue declined. The fund was set up to boost their programming and help them compete against the likes of Netflix and Youtube. There was a stated focus on programs from new and diverse backgrounds and those made in the [U.K.] nations and regions.

So why did the government pull the plug? A spokesperson said, We are undertaking a wider review of public service broadcasting to ensure it remains relevant and can continue to meet the needs of U.K. audiences. The government had already slashed the YACFs budget from 57M to 44M last year.

Culture secretary Nadine Dorries said she had decided not to use funding from the BBC, the countrys public broadcaster, to finance the YACF  a somewhat misleading statement, as the YACF had so far been funded not by the BBC but by the governments Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport.

So where does that leave the BBC? The pubcaster is now likely to once again become the only major commissioner of kids tv in the U.K., much as it was before the YACF was launched. It has a sizeable budget for this kind of programming, and recently pledged to triple what it spends on animation for the 712 age group.

However, the BBC too is facing a budget squeeze: the government has just announced that it will freeze the user-paid licence fee, which accounts for the bulk of the organizations income. The days of state-run tv are over, one source close to Dorries told The Guardian.

How has the media sector reacted? Trade bodies have expressed dismay at the abolition of the YACF. As Animation UK put it, We need a new debate urgently focussing on the value of [public-service-broadcasting] content for children, its criticality, impact, and the most effective ways of addressing documented market failure and documented lack of investment in the U.K.-originated content over the last decade. To halt the funding of this new approach before this is done is both illogical and shows a disregard for the critical issue of childrens content.

Meanwhile, the Childrens Media Foundation has called on the government to return to the YACF the 13M it took back last year. It has also said the fund could be financed by a levy on major streaming services  mirroring policy in other European nations  and enhanced contributions from the National Lottery, which funds cultural programs in the country.

Image at top: Dont Hug Me Im Scared
A middle school in Manhattan has canceled its production of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice after some parents expressed concern over anti-Semitic themes and whether the material is appropriate for middle schoolers.

The play was set to be performed by the seventh-grade drama students at 75 Morton, a popular middle school in Greenwich Village, but scrapped last month by the first-year principal without any warning.

School sources told the New York Post there was a divide between parents at the school, with some calling for the play's cancelation and others wanting to open a dialogue about the themes of the play.

The news of play's cancelation comes after a Tennessee school board scrapped the Holocaust-themed graphic novel Maus, voting unanimously to remove the Pulitzer Prize-winning book from its eighth-grade curriculum over a drawing of a nude woman, eight swear words and its 'not wise or healthy' content.

The controversy has led to some heated opinions and even the suspension of The View host Whoopi Goldberg over her comments in response to the banning of the book.

The 16th-century play 'The Merchant of Venice' (left), by William Shakespeare (right) is about a merchant in Venice named Antonio who defaults on a large loan provided by a Jewish money lender named Shylock  a term that has come to be considered an anti-Semitic slur

A middle school in Manhattan, 75 Morton (pictured), canceled its production of Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice' after some parents expressed concern over anti-Semitic themes and questions of whether the material was appropriate for middle schoolers

Now the Greenwich Village school is embroiled in controversy over the 16th-century Shakespeare classic bout a merchant in Venice named Antonio who defaults on a large loan provided by a Jewish money lender named Shylock  a term that has come to be considered an anti-Semitic slur.

A few Jewish parents asked administrators if the material was appropriate for middle schoolers.

'The way that anti-Semitism is shown in this play, if you don't have a minimum of knowledge and context you can't understand how bad and dangerous it is,' a member of the school community told The Post.

Valerie Leak, the first-year principal, had reportedly pledged to hold meetings with parents to discuss the matter, school sources told The Post.

She was also expected to meet with drama teachers and members of the Theater for a New Audience, the Manhattan-based group that is in collaboration with the school to produce the plays.

But parents tell The Post that these discussions never happened, and the play was just abruptly canceled.

Joe Sherinsky, one of the parents at the school, told The Post he believed the principal missed a 'teachable moment.'

'I think it needs to be properly contextualized,' he said. 'There are great lessons in the Merchant of Venice. You can takes names like Shylock and apply them broadly into lessons about racism. But in order to teach that properly you need to have enough context as parents to say that this is something good for the school to do.'

He has praised Leak overall, but said he would have liked a more meaningful exchange on the issue.

Instead, parents received an email from the school last month explaining the cancelation.

'Members of our community have expressed their objection to this play due to concerns about racist and anti-Semitic language,' school officials wrote to parents of drama students in an email.

'And while the company designed the curriculum with input from the ADL (Anti-Defamation League) to ensure that the challenging themes of the piece would be treated with the proper critical analysis, sensitivity, and thoughtfulness, we have decided to move forward with a different unit with the Theater.'

Instead of selecting a new production, the school opted to focus on a playwriting curriculum.

'This decision did not come lightly, as we worked diligently with TFNA and listened to the members of our community to resolve concerns,' the school's email continued. 'However, we believe this is the right decision to make at this time.'

Last week, the McMinn County Board of Education voted 10-0 to remove 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman from the curriculum on January 10, despite educators arguing that the graphic novel is an 'anchor text' in eighth-grade English language arts instruction and the centerpiece of a months-long study of the Holocaust.

Published in 1991, Maus is inspired by the story of Spiegelman's parents, Vladek and Anja, who survived the Holocaust after being shipped to the Auschwitz concentration camp in occupied Poland.

The graphic novel depicts Nazis as cats and Jewish people as mice.

The McMinn County school board in Tennessee voted 10-0 to remove 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman from the eighth grade curriculum over eight swear words and nudity

The graphic novel by Art Spiegelman (above) is inspired by the story of Art's parents

Art's father, Vladek Spiegelman (above), survived the Auschwitz concentration camp

The Holocaust Museum has defended Maus as playing a 'vital role' in educating children about the genocide. Their tweet came on Wednesday, the eve of Holocaust Remembrance Day

The board heard from instructional supervisors and other school officials who defended the use of the book in class but were unanimously overruled.

Spiegelman, 73, called the ban 'Orwellian' in an interview with CNBC, saying that he learned about it on Wednesday, a day before Holocaust Remembrance Day.

The Holocaust Museum has defended the book and said it plays a 'vital role' in teaching about the World War II-era genocide.

Board members' objections revolved around a drawing of a nude woman and eight swear words that appear throughout the 296-page book, according to minutes from the meeting.

The novel won the Pulitzer in 1992 and has since been lauded for helping to usher in a new era of graphic novels, in which they were seen as a respectable form of adult media.

The ban comes as parents and school boards across the country debate how to teach the history of racism at schools, if at all.

Last year, the Republican-controlled Tennessee General Assembly voted to withhold funding from schools that teach 'critical race theory,' effectively banning it, according to the Tennessean.

Whoopi Goldberg sparked international fury on Monday by claiming that the Holocaust 'was not about race' because it involved 'two groups of white people.' She was suspended from the shows for two weeks on Wednesday despite issuing an apology.
(Bloomberg) -- The maker of popular British snack brands was the victim of a ransomware attack last week, the company confirmed on Wednesday, the latest hack to disrupt food supplies.

Most Read from Bloomberg

KP Snacks said it was investigating the January 28 incident and has notified its customers and suppliers. Our internal IT teams continue to work with third-party experts to assess the situation, a spokeswoman said in an email.

The company produces widely sold snacks in the U.K., including McCoys potato chips, and is part of Dusseldorf, Germany-based Intersnack Group GmbH & Co KG.

A ransomware group known as Conti posted files on private areas of its website that appear to show samples of charge card statements, birth certificates and other confidential employee information. The files were reviewed by Bloomberg News. The dark web intelligence service DarkFeed posted a screenshot Tuesday that showed Conti threatening to publicly release company data.

A KP Snacks spokeswoman didnt immediately respond to a question from Bloomberg News asking how long the company expects disruptions to last. The publication betterRetailing.com reported that the snackmaker warned its retailers that delays may continue through the end of March.

In December, a cyberattack against Wisconsins Schreiber Foods was partly responsible for a cream cheese shortage, leaving bagel shops and bakeries struggling for supplies during the busy holiday season. Another ransomware incident at the meat processor JBS SA also interrupted production in May.

Such breaches have had a direct impact on the availability of products on supermarket shelves over the past year, said Jeremy Kennelly, senior manager for financial crime analysis at the security firm Mandiant Inc.

Story continues

The increasing prevalence of such attacks shows how they can have an impact far beyond the companies targeted with ransomware, given the interconnectedness of the consumer economy, he said.

(Adds detail on ransomware group in fourth paragraph.)

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Just days after launching his new DJ Bravo 47 riddim, cricket and music star Dwayne John Bra
Over the past year or so, the mania for NFTs has reached such a fevered state that it can feel like every celebrity, digital artist, and musician has gone in on the crypto-based trend. Except sometimes it turns out that no one even asked them first.

On Tuesday, a cascade of musical artists logged on to the internet to discover that their songs had been minted as nonfungible tokens by a platform theyd never heard of called HitPiece. Among the first was a Seattle-based electronic artist named Jeremy Blake, who goes by the stage name Red Means Recording. A member of my Discord community linked to my page  on HitPieces website, Blake told us over email. On that profile, 21 songs of Blakes were listed for sale as tokens, with his track Pataphysical listed as the Top NFT on Sale from the artist. I did not mint these, he would later tweet. I would never mint my work as an NFT, and this was done without my permission.

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Blake tried to get his music removed from HitPiece, which led him down a rabbit hole as he tried to understand if the platform was as brazen as it seemed. My first thought was to file a DMCA take-down request, he told us on Wednesday. But Hitpiece offered no way to do that and didnt even have a contact email. So Blake tweeted a request at HitPiece to take down his page, and saw that other musicians across Twitter were decrying the website for the same reason. Literally, every musician I know personally was affected by this, and tons more came out and spoke up when they learned about the platform, Blake wrote. Everyone from BTS to Disney to John Lennon was on there.

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haha, yeah. good luck once nintendo, disney, and john lennon find you. pic.twitter.com/GWhtlziYtr  Jeremy Blake (@jjbbllkk) February 1, 2022

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At first, small and lower-profile indie artists tweeted their displeasure. But it didnt take long for more prominent voices to join the angry chorus, like Left at London, Speedy Ortizs Sadie Dupuis, Amber Coffman, and YouTube personality Luke Westaway, who all alleged that HitPiece was profiteering off their work by making digital, blockchain-based copies of their work. The rap group clppng tweeted a screenshot of a HitPiece NFT made from their song Summertime, which had a bid of more than $21,474,836.47 from a user. Left at London told us that when she first looked at HitPiece, all the NFTs on offer were priced at $100, but on Tuesday a bidder with the username nftsarescams placed multiple bids at the same price of $21,474,836.47, suggesting that the HitPiece market and its prices were easy for any lay user to manipulate, and suggesting that its prices may not actually have reflected what people were actually willing to pay.

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HitPiece described itself as a place to let fans collect NFTs of [their] favorite songs. It didnt appear as though users could listen to the actual songs on HitPieces beta, although in its FAQ HitPiece claimed that users could stream music on its site by logging with their Spotify accounts. (The FAQ also stated that Each time an artists NFT is purchased or sold, a royalty from each transaction is accounted to the rights holders account.) Instead, each of these NFTs appeared to be a collectible image corresponding to a song (and perhaps conferring bragging rights for whoever bids the most for each). Artists had a different take on the jargon. Its recommodifying the metadata (art, song and album titles, etc.) to make money without permission, guitarist Alex Rudenshiold told Rolling Stone.

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HitPiece began responding to musicians on Twitter who were bombarding the site with take-down requests, informing them their music was not for sale or streaming, and that it was likely [their] music distributor that had put their work on HitPiece (a statement some artists said was false). On Tuesday night, HitPiece put out a statement and deleted its original website, which had had the URL hitpiece.com. That site was later restored with everything scrubbed except for one message: We Started the Conversation and Were Listening. By Wednesday, a new domain, gethitpiece.com, was live, but as of now theres no content on the website except for a basic template.

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What was HitPiece trying to do here? The basic pitch was that of a virtual marketplace where users could buy NFTs of songs. The site encouraged people to make Hitlists of their favorite songs and said that owning one of its NFTs could get you exclusive access and experiences with the artists. Its marketplace was, according to executives, built on Spotifys publicly available API, giving it the ability to pull metadata from the streaming services database of artists and tracks. As technologist Andy Baio noted on Twitter, all the artists and albums names and images and descriptors on HitPieces site appeared exactly as they were formatted on Spotify.

The mastermind behind HitPiece appears to be a record label owner and tech entrepreneur named Rory Felton. In a January interview with a podcast called Business Builders, Felton says that he began pitching the idea of digital song collectibles to venture capitalists and labels around 2014. He eventually partnered with early Spotify investor Jeff Burningham in 2020 to found HitPiece and raised $5 million in a seed funding round. Its the mission of the company to help artists create $1 billion, and I think we can get there within a few years, Felton said on the podcast. Music executive Michael Berrin, who used to perform as a rapper under the name MC Serch in the 1990s, also joined the project. (On Sunday, Berrin tweeted at rapper Meek Mill to come to HitPiece.) A beta version of the marketplace first went live in early December, around the same time that the company held a pool party for its launch at Art Basel in Miami Beach. According to LinkedIn, the company is based in Provo, Utah. (HitPiece and Felton did not respond to multiple requests for comment.)

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Bidders on HitPiece didnt need to own any cryptocurrency; a credit or debit card would do. Transactions occurred on a sidechain called HitChain, which is basically a smaller network that is compatible with and runs parallel to the larger Ethereum blockchain, where most NFTs exist. (Sidechains allow developers to adjust the mechanics of the ledger and avoid the traffic they might otherwise encounter on a bigger blockchain.) According to Feltons Business Builders interview, the artists and rights holders are supposed to get royalties from the initial auction and subsequent transfers through their own HitPiece accounts, though its unclear how these musicians were supposed to have accounts if they werent even notified that their songs and likenesses were up for sale.

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There are artists whove willingly worked with HitPiece. The music group JAGMAC did a virtual NFT drop event with HitPiece in late December, and still has a HitPiece link in its Twitter bio. The National Parks, a band from Utah, released exclusive NFTs on HitPiece earlier this month. Rappers like Busta Rhymes, Styles P, and Noreaga appeared at the Art Basel party. However, it doesnt appear as though the vast majority of artists with NFTs on HitPiece actually approved them, based on denials from both the affected artists and their companies. Disney told the New York Post that it has no relationship with HitPiece, for one thing.

Like Blake, musician Tre Watson was surprised to find their songs on the HitPiece website. Watson, who specializes in covers of songs from video games and anime, heard about the site from a couple of friends and decided to check it out. Once Watson found the page with their music, they tagged HitPiece on Twitter accusing the company of stealing artists work. HitPiece asked to take the conversation into the DMs.

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DM us. We are afraid you may have the wrong information.  HitPiece - NFTs (@joinhitpiece) February 1, 2022

Watson sent a message, but never got a response. Even if HitPiece had asked for Watsons permission beforehand, they say they likely wouldnt have wanted to be part of such a marketplace. My personal stance on NFTs is that they honestly cheapen the value of art, they said. Adding a middle man kind of just ruins the idea of art being an intimate experience between the artist and the observer. Watson estimates that theyve heard from more than 70 contacts in the music industry whove had similar experiences with HitPiece.

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Nat Puff, the indie-pop artist who performs as Left at London, was actually able to contact the people behind HitPiece. She first found out that her music was on the site when two of her fans notified her. Puff initially thought that she was being trolled, because she had spent the previous weeks criticizing NFTs on social media. There is 0 percent chance that NFTs for artists do anything but get artists involved in crypto, which is meant to legitimize crypto, she said. As more musicians began posting about their own headaches with HitPiece, she realized she wasnt alone. After Puff proceeded to call out Berrin, also known as MC Serch, on Twitter and threatened to get lawyers involved, he privately messaged her to say that her music was being taken down.

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The artists we spoke to were skeptical that NFTs could actually change the industry for the better, even if a blockchain company did its due diligence in getting consent from musicians beforehand. NFTs are not the best way to support artists, Jeremy Blake wrote. NFTs exist to enrich cryptocurrency speculators. If you want to support artists, buy their music directly from a website like Bandcamp. Left at London agreed, referring to the entire concept of crypto as a scam. Because theres less regulation in the market, theres more room for bullshit like this to happen, she told us. I get the temptation to want to move into a different market so you can make a little more money, but this is not the fucking way to do it.

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HitPiece isnt the only music NFT space earning the ire of creators: On Tuesday, Lil Yachty sued the Singapore-based company Opulous for allegedly using his name and likeness without permission during its launch. Identity appropriation is an issue in other crypto spaces, as well: YouTubers, artists, and influencers have had their likenesses used to mint NFTs yet see none of the profit. Visual artists have seen their work stolen or been impersonated by other traders in various marketplaces. NFT owners have seen their wallets get hacked and their prized assets wiped away. (One art dealers tweet about his portfolio getting hacked was subsequentlyyou guessed itturned into an NFT.) As the music industry ties itself closer to crypto and NFTs, through catalog deals and fan treats and live concert tickets, more scams and sketchy ventures are likely to proliferate, affecting musicians who might not even realize theyve become involved in the first place.
Chimeric Therapeutics Ltd (ASX:CHM) is strengthening its quality systems with the appointment of an experienced quality assurance executive Kelly Thornburg as vice president, head of Quality.

Thornburg has been advising the company as a consultant and will now serve in a leadership role to develop Chimerics quality systems and oversee all quality functions.

He brings extensive cell therapy experience to Chimeric, most recently from Kite, a Gilead company, where he was the quality site head for Kites US commercial manufacturing facility.

Critical experience and expertise

Chimeric CEO Jennifer Chow said: As we are aggressively moving forward with the development of multiple clinical programs, we require specialised resources including quality assurance.

We are thrilled to have Kelly joining our team as his experience in cell therapy quality provides us with the critical experience and expertise we require to advance our programs to clinic.

About Chimeric

Chimeric Therapeutics is a clinical-stage company with a focus on research related to the usage of cell therapy for the treatment of cancer.

The company is developing CAR T cell therapies for solid tumours based on scientific research conducted by the US CAR T experts at the City of Hope Cancer Centre in Los Angeles.

About Chlorotoxin CAR T

Chlorotoxin CAR T (CLTX CAR T) cell therapy has the potential to address the high unmet medical need of patients with recurrent/ progressive glioblastoma.

The therapy uniquely utilises chlorotoxin (CLTX), a peptide derived from scorpion toxin, as the tumour-targeting component of the chimeric antigen receptor (CAR).

Notanly, CLTX and CLTX CAR T cells have been shown in preclinical models to bind more broadly and specifically to GBM cells than other targeting domains like EGFR, HER-2 or IL-13.

In preclinical models, CLTX CAR T cells also demonstrated potent antitumour activity against glioblastoma while not exhibiting any off-tumour recognition of normal human cells and tissues, indicating a potentially optimal safety and efficacy profile.
BURLINGTON  Momentum is building for a citywide referendum on Echo Lake as city officials realize they have more time than originally thought to render a final decision.

The growing support for putting the matter to a vote comes after Burlington aldermen Tuesday night heard sharp divisions in the community about whether the beleaguered manmade lake is worth saving.

The Burlington City Council is scheduled Feb. 16 to vote on either expanding a dam and dredging the lake, or removing the dam and draining the former mill pond.

City staff, however, alerted aldermen that they could make a tentative decision now for the purpose of applying for a state grant, and then reverse course later on the future of the lake.

City officials previously believed they were racing to decide the controversial issue before a state grant application deadline that is looming March 4.

This is a huge game-changer for all of us, Mayor Jeannie Hefty said. We have time to think.

The relaxed timetable not only allows time to hold a public referendum. It also means that the ultimate decision on Echo Lake could come from a new City Council that will be seated after the spring municipal elections scheduled for April 5.

Three current aldermen are stepping aside: Steve Rauch, Theresa Meyer and Ryan Heft. They will be replaced by three newcomers who are running unopposed.

Under a timetable discussed Tuesday by the City Council, the city could meet the grant application deadline in March, find out by mid-summer if the grant is approved, then hold a public referendum that coincides with the November election and make a final decision after that about whether to apply the grant toward saving the lake or removing the lake.

Thought of losing lake makes me cry

Community members who addressed the council Tuesday expressed starkly opposing viewpoints on the issue when the council opened deliberations on the issue as the Committee of the Whole.

Lake supporter Dee Andrzcyzak was among those urging aldermen to make the investment necessary to save the lake as a historic and sentimental resource for recreation and aesthetics.

It makes me cry, Andrzcyzak said, her voicing cracking. It makes me sick to think they would drain the lake.

It needs to go

Another resident, Paul Haynes, told aldermen that the lake has deteriorated into a polluted mess and that the city should remove it and allow a restored White River to flow naturally in its place.

It needs to go, Haynes said. We can do something better.

Several aldermen voiced support for holding an advisory referendum  which would not require the city to follow voters wishes  before making a final decision about the lake.

An informal city survey shows roughly two-thirds of Burlington residents want to save the lake. But the survey was completed by only about 400 of the 10,000 people who live here.

Alderman Tom Preusker said a referendum in November would likely garner high voter turnout, providing a clearer indication of how people view Echo Lake.

We might get better direction, he said.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, who grew up in Burlington, and others were pushing for a referendum when city officials still thought the grant application deadline in March would have made a referendum impossible.

What led to all this?

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has notified the city that the aging dam at Echo Lake no longer meets safety standards. The dam must either be upgraded and expanded, or it must be dismantled by 2025. Dredging is needed, too, to remove decades of pollution and sediment.

If the manmade lake is drained, the White River would resume flowing naturally through the estimated 70-acre site, adjacent to Echo Veterans Memorial Park. After hearing about redevelopment possibilities that could include a riverfront with boardwalks and other amenities, members of the Burlington Park Board voted Jan. 20 to recommend removing the dam and draining the lake.

Adding new features such as boardwalks or fishing piers would involve additional costs beyond just the cost of emptying the lake.

City engineers have calculated that maintaining the lake would cost more than $5 million to dam repair and dredging. Removing the dam and draining the lake would cost less, with estimates ranging from $1.1 million to $2 million.

Although the city hopes to land grants and maybe other donors, the project could hit Burlington taxpayers in the pocketbook.

City officials have projected that borrowing $5 million to save the lake would increase property taxes for the average homeowner $68 a year over 20 years, for a total of $1,368. By comparison, borrowing $1.5 million to remove the lake would cost the same homeowner $20 a year, or a total of $409.

A future without Echo

As the City Council began considering the issue Tuesday, some aldermen voiced a willingness to at least consider a future without Echo Lake.

Alderman Jon Schultz agreed that a referendum is warranted, and he said the extra time allowed in the grant application process will allow for discussion of a wide range of possibilities.

This is our chance; this is our one chance, he said. Lets dream big.

Alderman Shad Branen said those pushing to save the lake are making emotional arguments rather than embracing the change and improvement that he said could come from removing the lake and creating something new in its place.
The company building an 1,100-megawatt offshore wind farm about 15 miles off Atlantic City filed paperwork Wednesday with the state asking for permission to cross Ocean City with transmission lines.

rsteds Ocean Wind Project sought the right to build transmission lines through a petition filing with the Board of Public Utilities late Wednesday, confirmed Maddy Urbish, head of government affairs and policy for rsted in New Jersey.

Its a new process made possible for all offshore wind developers by a bill signed into law in July by Gov. Phil Murphy. It allows Ocean Wind and other projects to sidestep local approvals for transmission lines.

This petition filing seeks to maintain the projects timeline to meet critical permitting milestones and assure that construction and operations can commence on time, Urbish said. We continue to engage with local officials ... and aim to negotiate agreements with local communities that facilitate the development of offshore wind and benefit all New Jerseyans.

State Sen. Bob Smith, a sponsor of the bill, has said it would allow the distribution line for offshore power generation to go through any public space, including rights-of-way under municipal and county roads, if the BPU approves it.

I really dont have any response right now other than we will be assessing our options, said Ocean City Council President Bill Barr, who strongly opposes the rsted project over fears visible windmills will ruin ocean views and harm the citys vital tourism business. Id anticipate we will go into closed session to discuss our options as a governing body and well go from there.

Wind power proponents plan to have their say A group of environmental organizations plans to begin a statewide effort to advocate for off

Barr said it was his understanding rsted asked the city to do a CAFRA hearing on the project, and the city was not ready to give it to them for a variety of reasons.

I guess we didnt meet their timetable, so they went to the BPU. Well see what happens, Barr said.

The next City Council meeting is Feb. 10, he said.

In previous public discussions with Ocean City, rsted representatives have said the likely route to bring power across the island would be at 35th Street, continuing through Upper Township to tie in to the power grid at the site of the former B.L. England Power Plant in Beesleys Point.

Gov. Phil Murphy is a strong supporter of offshore wind as a clean energy source and a way to meet his goal of 100% clean energy by 2050.

He also supports it as a way to create jobs in a new industry.

Upper Township Committee swears in Pancoast: Cape May County briefs UPPER TOWNSHIP  Kim Hayes won the election but is off Township Committee anyway, at least for now.

In June, the BPU awarded 2,600 more megawatts of capacity to two companies. They were Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, which will build a 1,510 megawatt farm off the coast between Long Beach Island and Atlantic City; and rsted, which will build another 1,148 megawatts in its leasing area in federal waters southeast of Atlantic City. Those two farms will provide electricity to about 1.1 million homes, according to BPU President Joseph Fiordaliso.

In 2019, rsteds Ocean Wind was awarded the right to build the first 1,100 megawatts of offshore wind generation in the same leasing area, which will supply another 500,000 homes, he said.

There will be solicitations for more farms every two years until 7,500 megawatts are awarded, Fiordaliso said. The goal is to have 7,500 megawatts of offshore wind entering the grid by 2035.

Ratepayers will pay to build the projects, and the money generated by the sale of the energy will be returned to ratepayers under the plan.

According to the BPU, Atlantic Shores project is expected to add about $2.21 to the average residential monthly bill, $20.81 to the average commercial customers monthly bill and $172.25 to the average industrial customers bill. These bill impacts will not begin until the project is operational, which is estimated to occur in 2027-28.

Ocean Winds Phase 2 is estimated to add $1.28 per month for residential customers, $11.73 for commercial customers and $99.91 for industrial customers starting in 2028-29.

Ocean City mayor: Wind turbines should not be seen from beach OCEAN CITY  Mayor Jay Gillian has called on regulators to ensure wind turbines could not be

The two projects are estimated to create 7,000 full- and/or part-time jobs across the development, construction and operational phases of the projects, the BPU said.

Atlantic Shores is a 50-50 joint venture between EDF Renewables North America and Shell New Energies US LLC. The venture was formed in December 2018 to co-develop a lease area of 183,353 acres 10 to 20 miles off the coast between Atlantic City and Barnegat Light.

rsted is a Danish company that won the states first offshore wind solicitation in 2019 to build an 1,100-megawatt wind farm called Ocean Wind on a lease area about 15 miles southeast of Atlantic City. Ocean Wind is expected to begin operating in 2024 and is still awaiting federal approvals to begin construction.

Newark-based Public Service Enterprise Group bought 25% of the Ocean Wind project from rsted, which owns and operates 26 offshore wind farms around the world, including the first in the United States, the Block Island Wind Farm off Rhode Island.
WASHINGTON, DC  The United States will send more troops to Europe, Defense Department announced, citing tensions along Ukraine's borders. The deployment comprises 1,000 troops currently located in Germany who will be redirected to Romania, as well as 2,000 troops from the United States who will be dispatched to Germany and Poland. The Defense Department's spokesman, John Kirby, was reported by the Xinhua news agency as stating.

"These aren't long-term changes. They are actions taken in response to the current security situation. Furthermore, these forces will not combat in Ukraine "During a Pentagon press conference, Kirby stated. "These movements are obvious signals to the world that we stand ready to reassure our (NATO) friends and deter and protect against any assault," he added.

The US has already placed 8,500 troops on "heightened alert" in anticipation of a "imminent" Russian invasion of Ukraine, according to the US. If NATO decides to activate its rapid response force, the NRF, the troops will be able to be deployed on short notice.

The troops being deployed, according to Kirby, are distinct from those on high alert. Because NATO has yet to activate the NRF, they will operate on a bilateral basis with their host countries and will be under US command rather than NATO authority.

Ukrainian Prez, Dutch PM to discuss cooperation and regional security

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2017 U.S. strike on Syria's largest dam haunts local civilians
Emory University researchers have received a $15.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to ensure COVID-19 tests are able to quickly detect new variants of concern, such as Omicron.

The award is part of the NIHs Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx) program, which selects and tests the most promising COVID diagnostic tools and then helps them move quickly through the development and commercialization pipeline. The goal is to make available simple tests Americans can use at home, a physicians office or other non-hospital settings.

Throughout the pandemic, Emory researchers, together with their partners at Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta and Georgia Institute of Technology, have helped make COVID-19 testing accessible, affordable and accurate through the RADx program.

The additional funding comes as health officials grapple with the swift spread of the highly contagious Omicron variant,. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration in December awarded emergency use authorizations to two new COVID tests after they received RADxs seal of approval.

As COVID is evolving, we are evolving with it, says Greg Martin, MD, MSc, one of the Atlanta teams three principal investigators as well as professor of pulmonary and critical care with the Emory University School of Medicine Department of Medicine and chair of critical care for the Grady Health System.

Now, more than ever, accurate, fast, easy-to-use, and widely accessible tests are necessary to blunt the pandemic and safely return to a more normal life, Martin says.

Early in the pandemic, Emory, Childrens and Georgia Tech were selected to lead the national effort in test validation and verification through the Atlanta Center for Microsystems Engineered Point-of-Care Technologies (ACME POCT). ACME POCT is one of five NIH-funded point-of-care technology centers in the nation within the Point-of-Care Technologies Research Network (POCTRN) selected to participate in RADx. More than $64 million in NIH dollars have flowed to Atlanta institutions for their RADx work.

It is vital that we continue this work, says Wilbur Lam, MD, pediatric hematologist and oncologist at Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta, professor of the Emory University School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics and at the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University.

COVID is showing an alarming ability to adapt and spread. Fortunately, we have innovation and ingenuity on our side as we battle another surge of this virus.

The latest NIH grant is funding work being done at the Emory School of Medicines Department of Pediatrics as well as the Department of Biochemistry.

Research reported in this press release was supported by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering of the National Institutes of Health under award number U54 EB027690.




Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Robyn Mudie (Photo: VNA)

Reporter: After two years working in Vietnam, how do you feel about the country and people here? What plans do you have for the 2022 Lunar New Year?

Ambassador Robyn Mudie: Ive been the Ambassador here since July 2019, but this is my second time in Hanoi and at the Embassy - I was also here in the mid-90s as a junior diplomat.

Vietnam has changed a lot over that time, but one of the things that has remained consistent is the countrys determination and commitment to progress, including the drive to be a proactive member of the international community. This determination is also reflected in the Vietnamese people, whose warmth and resilience, even in the face of adversity, is heartening and welcoming.

I was also delighted to be able to return to discover more of this fascinating country. It has so many layers of beauty and culture to uncover. I havent travelled as much as I would have liked due to the COVID-19 restrictions but even exploring Hanoi again has been wonderful.

Overall, its been a pleasure to be back here.

As for Tet - I love Tet! Its a beautiful time of year in Hanoi and theres something very special, and uniquely Vietnamese, about the Tet atmosphere.

This year, I am looking forward to once again decorating our house with kumquat trees and peach blossoms, sampling banh chung, and exploring the old streets and temples in the old quarter. I will also try to visit the flower markets to see the beautiful blossom trees and to talk to the flower sellers. Its a good opportunity to practice my Vietnamese language and to find out more about the culture and the Tet celebrations.

Its my last Tet in Vietnam, as I finish my posting in the summer, so I want to make the most of every moment.

Reporter: How do you evaluate the Australia-Vietnam cooperation in 2021, especially in the context of COVID-19 epidemic?

Ambassador Robyn Mudie: The Strategic Partnership between Australia and Vietnam is one of strength and depth, from our people-to-people links, to our trade and investment ties, and to our shared interests in a secure and prosperous Indo Pacific. Despite the global health challenge of COVID-19, the bilateral relationship has continued on a positive trajectory.

As a close friend and partner, Australia stands with Vietnam in its fight against COVID-19 as it continues to protect its people and boost economic recovery. Access to safe and effective vaccines is critical to these efforts and to ending the pandemic. I am extremely proud that Australia is working in partnership with the Government of Vietnam to help support Vietnams COVID-19 vaccine rollout.

The Australian Government has committed to share 7.8 million COVID-19 vaccine doses with Vietnam. We have already delivered 3.7 million doses from Australias own supply, with the remainder due to arrive in the coming months.

Australia also recognises that vaccinations require more than just doses. Planning, administration, equipment, distribution, and training to get vaccine doses in arms as quickly as possible through national rollouts are critical to the success of vaccination programs. That is why we have committed 60 million AUD for a comprehensive package of support for Vietnams COVID-19 vaccine rollout, which includes support for doses as well as for vaccine fridges, communications support and training for health care workers.

More broadly, Australia is supporting Vietnams response to COVID-19 through our Partnerships for Recovery development policy. Our total development cooperation funding to Vietnam is forecast to be 78.9 million AUD in 2021-22 and our efforts are focused on three key objectives that are important for all countries as we emerge from the pandemic: health security, stability and economic recovery.

Reporter: The Vietnam-Australia Strategic Partnership has been developing well both in depth and breadth in various fields, especially trade and investment promotion. What do you expect from the relationship in the near future?

Ambassador Robyn Mudie: Australia and Vietnam have highly complementary economies. Australia is a reliable supplier of the services and raw materials that Vietnams exporters require, and Australian consumers enjoy Vietnams high-quality products in their homes and workplaces. There is enormous potential to take the relationship even further as we emerge from COVID-19.

In the strongest reflection yet of the confidence in our shared economic future, on 21 December the governments of Australia and Vietnam publicly released the Vietnam-Australia Enhanced Economic Engagement Strategy (EEES) to unlock significant opportunities for businesses across the two countries. The EEES is unique, the first of its kind for Vietnam and Australia and reflective of both countries mutual interests.

To support Australian and Vietnam businesses, the EEES outlines a series of mutually beneficial, practical initiatives to deepen trade and investment links in key sectors including across agriculture, education, energy, services and the digital economy. It also highlights the importance of strengthening the rules-based global trading system as the basis for open international trade and working together to address economic challenges and coercive economic practices.

Recognising that business and industry will be critical in taking the economic relationship to the next level, an early outcome of the EEES is the appointment of Business Champions  industry leaders to accelerate business engagement, trade and investment between Vietnam and Australia. There are also other early initiatives including 28 projects awarded under the Australia-Vietnam Enhanced Economic Engagement Grant (AVEG) Pilot Program, which support practical implementation of the strategy.

Increased engagement and cooperation are vital for our and the regions economic recovery. The EEES will help guide our two countries on an inclusive and sustainable growth path and foster even deeper ties between Australia and Vietnam.

Reporter: Thank you so much for your interview!
Members of the Bennington County Open Arms volunteer group are shown welcoming the first Afghan family upon their arrival in Bennington. Up to five families that left Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover last year are expected to be resettled in Bennington County.
Skyfii Ltd (ASX:SKF, OTC:SFIIF) expects 2022 financial year second-half revenues to exceed the record levels achieved in the first half, based on the growing deal pipeline, recent contract wins and the momentum seen from investment and growth activities.

The company's cost base is also set to normalise in the second half, which will deliver operating leverage into FY23 and beyond.

There will be continued focus on expansion in the rapidly growing and profitable North America and EMEA regions.

Its continued business development focus will be on key verticals including airports, stadiums, grocery and smart buildings.

Return to delivering profitable growth"

Skyfii CEO and managing director Wayne Arthur said: The acquisition of CrowdVision continues to drive new business and we were pleased to welcome two of the top 10 airports in the USA to our growing airport portfolio during the quarter.

Our core business delivered a number of blue-chip customers including deals with McDonald's restaurants and property REIT Majid Al Futtaim, both in the UAE, and our Australian operations also maintained a steady growth trajectory.

Our rolling 12-month deal pipeline, which now stands at over A$37 million in advanced stage deal value, continues to grow. In particular, our people counting and venue analytics data products, which are helping venues maintain safe and compliant operations and deliver improved levels of customer experience.

In addition to the employees who transitioned with the CrowdVision acquisition, our investment for growth in 1H FY22 saw the company add an additional 12 headcount from April 2021.

The investment for growth has helped bolster our sales, marketing and customer support functions, particularly in our international operations.

And with the results delivered during the quarter, along with our current financial trajectory, is a reflection of that investment.

"Our four-year CAGR has been extremely strong and I am pleased to see us return to delivering profitable growth.

Strong revenue growth

During the December quarter, total operating revenues came in at A$6.0 million, up 18% quarter-on-quarter and 50% on the previous corresponding period.

Recurring revenues stood at A$3.6 million, up 5% quarter-on-quarter and 30% from the previous year.

Quarterly cash receipts from customers were A$6.9 million, up 66% from the previous quarter and 105% on the corresponding quarter.

Positive net cash flow from operations of A$800,000 was delivered.

Pro forma annualised recurring revenue (ARR) exited the second quarter at A$15 million, up 5% quarter-on-quarter and up 30% on the previous corresponding period.

The first half of FY22 total revenues rose by 50% to A$11.1 million versus the first half in FY21.

In the second quarter, A$4 million plus in total contract value was converted with the rolling 12-month pipeline including over A$37 million of advanced stage deals.

Cash position

The company maintained a strong balance sheet with A$5.4 million of cash as at December 31, 2021, versus A$5.8 million at September 30, 2021.

This small reduction in net cash quarter on quarter was primarily due to the final settlement costs of $$314,000 for the Blix acquisition, plus other investing activities.

Further, Skyfii has access to a A$2 million loan facility, which remains fully undrawn.

Contract wins and renewals

In the quarter, key contracts delivered in the EMEA region with a combined total contract value of over A$1.6 million, including:

 Majid Al Futtaim (MAF), owner and operator of shopping malls, retail outlets and leisure centres in the Middle East, signed a three-year deal across an initial 19 shopping malls;.

 Quick Service Restaurant operator, McDonalds signed a three-year deal for the provision IO Connect Guest WiFi and IO Insights data analytics platform in 183 restaurants across the UAE; and

 International shopping centre group McArthurGlen Designer Outlets signed a three-year contract extension across 24 designer outlet malls in the UK and Europe.

CrowdVision acquisition

The acquisition of CrowdVision continues to drive new revenue growth and expand Skyfiis presence in the global airport vertical.

Key contracts signed in the quarter included:

 Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the sixth busiest airport in the US by passenger boardings signed a 3-year deal for a queue analytics system to improve passenger experience at their Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints;

 At Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, the seventh busiest airport in the US by passenger boardings, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) partnered with CrowdVision on an initial 3-year term; and

 Adelaide Airport signed a five-year agreement to deploy CrowdVisions passenger queue monitoring and crowd analytics solution.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

OTTAWA  Manitoba Conservatives say Candice Bergen, as interim leader, will help bring an end to months of strife in the Tory party.

I think shes the right person to unite caucus, said Interlake-area Tory MP James Bezan.

Weve always got to expand our tent. If were going to win the next election, we have to take votes away from the Liberals, but we cant give up on our Conservative principles by doing that.

Former Conservative Leader Erin OToole looks on at the partys new interim leader Candice Bergen. (The Canadian Press file)

Bergen, who has represented Portage-Lisgar since 2008, was second-in-command to leader Erin OToole until Wednesday morning when he was turfed by his caucus.

Conservative Senate Leader Don Plett, of Manitoba, said that was a result of Tory members being miffed at OToole for changing party policies.

The interim leader needs to be well versed in House procedures and in where our membership wants to go, and needs to have the confidence of the caucus, he said.

You need to be able to speak to the base and I certainly believe Candice would have that.

Bergen had served as the partys House leader, in charge of horse-trading with other parties to get legislation through the Commons.

She used those skills to help OTooles ill-fated attempts to nudge his party to the centre.

OToole had promised his caucus electoral success in urban Ontario and Quebec if the party embraced carbon pricing and net-zero emissions, while downplaying social-conservative views.

Yet OToole barely made a mark in those regions in last falls election, while losing seats in Alberta.

Our base softened because of some of the stances that the leader took, said Plett, who oversaw the creation of the Conservative Party in 2003 in the merger of the Alliance and Progressive-Conservatives parties.

Several MPs describe Bergen as a bridge-builder who would give OToole the pulse of his Prairie base, while brokering peace with MPs from the region by explaining his rationale.

The role that she plays in the background is why shes respected enough to be voted as interim leader, BrandonSouris Tory MP Larry Maguire said.

Shes collaborative yet shes stern, and shell do a great job in leading us to the time we pick a new leader.

Speaking before the results Wednesday, KildonanSt. Paul MP Raquel Dancho said she would support any strong leader who keeps the Tories focused.

Its been demoralizing; its never great when your team isnt acting like a team, she said.

The role of opposition has been distracted over these leadership issues.

Bergen rose to prominence after successfully leveraging the firearms registry as a wedge issue against the NDP, which splits its support between rural ridings and urban voters.

She attracted controversy as she moved up the party ranks.

This week, she irritated Manitoba chiefs when she compared the protesters who toted swastikas in the trucking convoy at Parliament Hill to Indigenous protesters who toppled the Queen Victoria statue in Winnipeg last summer.

A year ago, in the wake of white nationalists storming the U.S. Capitol, a photo of her emerged in which she wears a Make America Great Again hat. Bergen refused to explain the context behind the photo.

Bergen is the first Manitoban to lead the federal Tories since 1948, when John Bracken was at the helm.

Shes got lots of experience, integrity and a great work ethic, and I think shell do a great job, Maguire said.

Even Liberal MP Terry Duguid said Bergen is a force to reckon with.

I know Candice is a hard-working Manitoba MP, said the MP for Winnipeg South.

The Conservatives are obviously going through a difficult time (and) I wish them well.

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca
California AG Demands Black Lives Matters Delinquent Financial Records

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) organization and its leaders have come under fire from the California Department of Justice for failing to disclose detailed financial reports on up to $60 million in donations.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a letter on Jan. 31 warning Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, Inc. that the state may revoke the organizations tax-exempt status and charge BLM leaders with late fees if it doesnt comply with the states demands to provide financial records.

Bontas letter warns BLM that it was delinquent with The Registry of Charitable Trusts for failing to submit required annual report(s) for the 2020 tax year.

An organization that is delinquent, suspended or revoked is not in good standing and is prohibited from engaging in conduct for which registration is required, including soliciting or disbursing charitable funds, the letter states.

BLM has 60 days to provide the delinquent reports to the California Department of Justice, according to the letter.

Bontas office did not respond to requests for comment on Feb. 2.

The letter was issued during Black Lives Matter at School Week, Jan. 31 to Feb. 4.

The Washington Examiner reported that BLM wasnt even registered with the Internal Revenue Service as a charity for the first six years of its existence.

But after George Floyds murder in May of 2020, tens of millions of dollars were given to this organization from major corporations and celebrities. And now, no one even knows where all that money has gone. Even worse, there doesnt appear to be anyone in charge of the organization who can provide that information, the Examiner reported.

BLM was founded in 2013 when George Zimmerman was acquitted for the killing of Trayvon Martin, when Patrisse Khan-Cullors created the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter. She co-founded the group with Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi.

Patrisse Cullors, a co-founder of Black Lives Matter, speaks in Los Angeles, Calif., in a file photograph. (Rich Fury/Getty Images for Teen Vogue)

After the controversial death of George Floyd in 2020, BLM was flooded with contributions to its cause.

BLM channeled donations through Thousand Currents and the Tides Foundation until the IRS approved its application for nonprofit status in December 2020. Around that time, Thousand Currents transferred $66.5 million to BLMa transaction personally signed off on by BLM co-founder Patrisse Cullors, according to the Examiner.

BLM also moved millions of dollars to a charity in Canada run by Cullorss wife, Janaya Khan, to purchase a mansion that used to be the headquarters of the Communist Party of Canada, according to public records reviewed by the New York Post.

The Post reported: M4BJ, a Toronto-based non-profit set up by Janaya Khan and other Canadian activists, snagged the 10,000 square foot historic property for the equivalent of $6.3 million in cash in July 2021, according to Toronto property records viewed by the newspaper.

Cullors admitted a few years ago in a widely publicized video that she and her fellow activists are trained Marxists.

FOX Business reported last month that BLM had called for a month-long boycott of white companies and stated, White-supremacist-capitalism uses policing to protect profits and steal Black life.

This week, the BLM School Week of Actionpromoted by the California Teachers Association (CTA) and the National Education Association (NEA) teachers unionsis calling for the disruption of Western nuclear family dynamics.

A starter kit on the Black Lives Matter at School website lists the organizations demands that schools fund counselors not cops, and that black history and ethnic studies be taught in the classroom. The curriculum also advocates for black villages and globalism.

Black Villages is the disruption of Western nuclear family dynamics and a return to the collective village that takes care of each other, the starter kit documents state. Globalism is our ability to see how we are impacted or privileged within the Black global family that exists across the world in different regions.

BLM also seeks to replace zero tolerance policies with restorative justice and advocates for hiring more black teachers.

The organization released its first impact report (pdf) in February, 2021.

The report claims BLM collected more than $90 million in 2020, spent $8.4 million on operating expenses, and disbursed $21.7 million to its local chapters and affiliated organizations. However, the report lacked specific details about how the funds were spent.

Cullors resigned from BLM three months after the report was released.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

News of a $6 million injection into Manitobas pandemic-battered arts and culture sector and eased indoor-venue capacity restrictions next week earned rave reviews Wednesday from the leaders of several of the suffering organizations.

Premier Heather Stefanson announced changes to public-health orders beginning next Tuesday that include capping attendance at performing arts events at 50 per cent of a venues capacity with proof of immunization required for all.

Current restrictions limit attendance to 50 per cent capacity or 250 people, whichever is less.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Manitoba Operas general director and chief executive officer Larry Desrochers: Its very good news; its good to have a government that keeps the arts and culture sector in mind.

Its very good news; its good to have a government that keeps the arts and culture sector in mind, said Larry Desrochers, Manitoba Operas general director and chief executive officer.

That 250 capacity made it really difficult to produce a show of any size.

A swath of arts events in Winnipeg and across Manitoba scheduled for the first four months of 2022 have been cancelled or postponed because of the capacity restrictions that made them financially unfeasible.

Among them was Manitoba Operas production of La Cenerentola, scheduled for April at the 2,303-seat Centennial Concert Hall, which the company postponed until its 2022-23 season.

The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre and Prairie Theatre Exchange ended lengthy shutdowns in November and December by producing the plays Orlando and The War Being Waged, respectively, by following tight COVID-19 protocols and allowing only 50 per cent attendance at their theatres.

But the fast-spreading COVID-19 Omicron strain and the tighter health restrictions that followed an explosion of cases several weeks ago forced the cancellations of February and March productions.

The province announced $6 million in new funding allocated to the Arts and Culture Sustainability Program to support organizations negatively affected by COVID-19 and public-health order restrictions.

(The announcement) is really heartening because we are planning for next season, and planning for the (Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival) is rolling, said Camilla Holland, executive director of the RMTC, which produces the festival, scheduled for July 13-24.

Lynne Skromeda, executive director of the Winnipeg Folk Festival, called the funding announcement wonderful news, as the organization continues plans for the events return July 7-10 at Birds Hill Provincial Park.

If the folk fest qualifies for funding, which will be looked after by the Manitoba Arts Council and Manitoba Film and Music, two provincial Crown agencies, it could recoup losses incurred after cancelling several fundraising concerts in the past year.

My mantra around the office is, Keep your eye on the prize. Theres a high level optimism here, Skromeda said.

Alan.Small@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @AlanDSmall
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitobas largest university has announced a partial return to face-to-face operations at the end of the month to address both community concerns about Omicron and academics calls to resume in-person learning.

We have listened to a range of perspectives on the matter of our operations and believe this approach is the most prudent given (the University of Manitobas) mandatory vaccine policy, stringent COVID protocols, and commitment to an outstanding student experience, says a joint statement from president Michael Benarroch and Diane Hiebert-Murphy, vice-president academic.

In the Feb. 2 release, the senior administrators indicate they have asked deans to support a safe, partial return of priority in-person teaching and learning for the latter half of the winter semester.

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Michael Benarroch, president, University of Manitoba.

The number of students learning in physical classrooms will increase as of Feb. 28, following reading week.

Faculties and schools will determine what courses will continue online for the duration of the term, as well as which classes will be delivered in-person, in turn requiring some staff to stop working remotely.

The university had planned a full resumption of pre-pandemic activity on its campuses in early 2022, before the Omicron variant arrived in Manitoba. In mid-December, as cases began to surge, administration pushed back the reopening until late February and the majority of winter classes began via remote delivery.

A detailed announcement regarding the partial return will be made public by Feb. 11.

Administrators have indicated they will extend the course drop date so students do not face academic or financial consequences as a result of the latest update.

While noting at least one-third of courses  the percentage of year-long classes that have always been scheduled to remain online throughout 2021-22  will continue remotely, the undergraduate students union president welcomed the announcement as a sign of hope.

This will be the first time were back on campus since March 13, (2020) and its exciting  but I can also see, of course, that students are a bit anxious to come back, said Brendan Scott, who represents upwards of 26,000 students.

Scott said a phased return plan makes sense because it ensures deans collaborate with professors to determine how individual courses are delivered instead of prescribing a blanket approach to faculties.

The faculty association continues to advocate for the U of M to change its definition of fully vaccinated so only people with a third-dose booster can attend campus, ensure N95 masks and microphones are widely available to instructors, and install CO2 monitors to assess air quality.

Earlier this week, union leader Orvie Dingwall called the universitys safety plan inadequate.

While the school has undertaken building air-quality assessments, Dingwall told the Free Press the union has concerns it has not been able to monitor ventilation quality when the buildings are at full capacity because few people have been on campus in recent months.

In addition to requiring all visitors to its campuses be double-vaccinated against COVID-19, U of M has a mask mandate and continues to enforce physical distancing.

maggie.macintosh@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @macintoshmaggie
University of Iowa students are bringing their directing chops to four plays as part of the Iowa Directors Festival, which begins Thursday and continues through Saturday.

The two-weekend festival provides master of fine arts directing candidates the opportunity to bring a production to the stage.

This weekend, two plays will be performed at 8 p.m. each night at the theater building at 200 N. Riverside Drive.

Letters from Cuba by Maria Irene Fornes, follows three young artists living in New York, including Fran, a dancer from Cuba. Fran receives letters from her brother, who remains in their home country. What unfolds is a story that interweaves familial, romantic and platonic love while exploring art, dreams, memories and separation.

A photo illustration by Jade Barnes used for the play "Letters from Cuba" by Maria Irene Fornes, a Cuban-American playwright and director. The play will be performed at the University of Iowa beginning Feb. 3.

Natalie Villamonte Zito, the director, said it's a piece she has loved for years.

Villamonte Zito is a child of immigrants. Her mother is from Peru and her father from Brazil. They both came to America in the 1960s.

She is interested in topics that deal with immigration or family separation because she grew up with family living in other countries, largely Peru.

Villamonte Zito said she also thought about the negative sentiments surrounding immigrants in America in recent years while choosing this play.

America is a country of immigrants, she said, but people coming to the country are being denied entry and families face separation in detention centers.

The themes of separation in the play also relate to the disconnect people experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, she said.

The play isnt political, but it does make the viewer invested in the story of the separated siblings, said Villamonte Zito.

You want for them to reunite, so deeply, just the same way that they do, she said. So, it's this really sweet, quiet way of evoking this connection with the audience and them that by the end, you want that as well. I hope that it inspires people to keep that mentality moving forward in their lives and in their discussions.

Story continues

The play also explores closeness, something Villamonte Zito said she thought would be important to focus on at this time.

This longing to reunite is something that I think we can all tap into and understand and connect with, and really leaning into the fact that we need to be connected to one another, she said.

The play is based on the letters Fornes brother had sent her from Cuba.

Even though the play was written 20 years ago, there's a lot that resonates with what's happening now, Villamonte Zito said.

Villamonte Zito received research grants from the theater department and traveled to interview Cuban immigrants in America, including a man who was part of Operation Peter Pan, which brought 14,000 unaccompanied children from Cuba to America between 1960-62.

The man shared his experience with Villamonte Zito, as well as how he wrote letters to his family. She brought that information back to the cast.

Stories that deal with the subject matter Letters from Cuba explores are something that will continue to draw Villamonte Zito's attention.

It's important for us to be in dialogue about it and how can our work inspire others and how can the work make its own difference? she said. That is something thats really important to me.

'small hours' is one-woman show about a new parent

The second play performed this weekend is small hours by Lucy Kirkwood and Ed Hime. Its a one-woman show exploring a new parent who struggles through the night as her darkest thoughts grow loud.

There is a content warning for the production, as it depicts postpartum depression, anxiety and disassociation. There is also a sensory warning due to the play's flashing lights and visuals, and loud sounds.

Sarah Gazdowicz, director, said she loves Kirkwoods work. small hours stood out to her, and she imagined the different aspects of bringing the story to life from the sound to working with an actor to portray the intense scenes in the play.

Gazdowicz does not have children, but she said that there are social pressures and demands people who bear children and women face, including an expectation that they need to transition into their new phase of life quickly.

For some people, that comes very easily, even though there are always challenges with parenthood. But for some people, it is much more difficult, she said.

Before directing, Gazdowicz was an actor. It's an experience that informs her directing.

The more plays she was in, the more she could see the moving parts that make up a production.

Every moment in small hours is important, Gazdowicz said. With larger shows, there isnt always the time she was able to afford in exploring and crafting each moment in the show.

In this one-woman show, Gazdowicz and the actor in small hours took rehearsals at a comfortable pace.

We were able to really engage in dialogue, she said. We were able to try things. There was a lot of time. There was a lot of breathing room, which I think was really helpful for both of us (as) neither of us have ever done a play quite like this before.

Week 2 of the Iowa Directors Festival

The festival continues next weekend with two more productions.

There will be a performance of each show Thursday through Sunday at 8 p.m. in the David Thayer theater at the theater building:

Talk to Me Like the Rain and Let Me Listen by Tennessee Williams and directed by Kenneth Collins follows a drunk and a woman wasting away in their shared flat.

Englands Splendid Daughters written and directed by Ann Kreitman, who created an audio tour of UI centered around historic queer love letters. The play is based on memoirs of ambulance drivers in World War I and the women who were recruited to drive them.

Paris Barraza covers entertainment, lifestyle and arts at the Iowa City Press-Citizen. Reach her at PBarraza@press-citizen.com or (319) 519-9731. Follow her on Twitter @ParisBarraza.

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Iowa Directors Festival features four plays directed by UI students
Managing editor for innovation

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.
Kiev, Feb 3 : Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and visiting Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte met to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional security, the presidential press service has said.

In a joint statement after their talks, Zelensky and Rutte stated their commitment to develop and further deepen the comprehensive bilateral partnership in all areas of mutual interest, Xinhua news agency reported.

The two leaders highlighted opportunities for enhancing cooperation in the areas of circular economy, healthcare, water and waste management, renewable energy, information technologies, space technologies and inland waterways.

The two parties underlined the importance of a peaceful solution to the crisis in and around Ukraine, saying that diplomacy plays a crucial role in the peace process.

Rutte reiterated his country's support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

The Netherlands stands ready to provide technical cyber assistance to Ukraine and continue providing Ukrainian servicemen injured in the Donbas conflict with rehabilitative care, Rutte said.

At the joint press conference after their talks, Zelensky said Ukraine is taking steps to strengthen its defense capabilities, noting that the weapon provided to Ukraine by international partners is needed for protection, not for an offensive.

"The weapon is protection. We think only about peace. We think about the de-occupation of territories only through diplomacy," Zelensky emphasised.

Rutte arrived in Kiev on Tuesday for a working visit.

Since November, Kiev and some Western countries have accused Russia of assembling heavy troops near the Ukrainian border with a possible intention of "invasion." Russia denied the accusation, saying that Russia has the right to mobilize troops within its borders to defend its territory as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's activities constitute a threat to Russia's border security.

Amid the tensions, some Western countries supplied lethal weapons to Ukraine.
RACINE  The City of Racines newly-minted Transit Department will take part in Transit Equity Day for the first time.

At the City Council meeting Tuesday evening, Racine Mayor Cory Mason read a proclamation declaring Feb. 4 Transit Equity Day and stating the citys participation.

Racine joins transit rider unions, community organizations, environmental groups and labor unions across the U.S. in commemorating the birthday of Rosa Parks (Feb. 4) by declaring that equitable access to quality mass transit is a civil right, according to a news release from the city.

Parks was an activist in the Civil Rights Movement most known for her role in the Montgomery bus boycott. Transit Equity Day is a national day of action meant to amplify the cause of safe, sustainable and equitable public transportation for all people and all communities.

When patrons board a RYDE bus Friday, they will see that a seat has been reserved in honor of Parks courage and contributions to civil rights. Each bus will have a seat occupied by a single rose and poster featuring this Parks quote: We must have courage  determination  to go on with the task of becoming free  not only for ourselves, but for the nation and the world.

RYDE Racine reserving a seat in honor of Rosa Parks symbolizes our communitys commitment to her legacy, stated District 2 Alderwoman/Chairwoman of the Transit Commission Mollie Jones. Commemorating leaders like Parks is important in Racine because it serves as a reminder of where we have been and the need to continue progress on racial equity.

Mason called Racines history of social justice and civic participation powerful. He encouraged Racine to remember not only Rosa Parks, but also local civil rights pioneers who made the cause of justice their own.

One of these pioneers is Corinne Reid-Owens, who is memorialized in the Transit Centers name. Reid-Owens became known as Racines Rosa Parks as a leading local figure in the civil rights movement, championing issues like fair housing and education. She died Nov. 6, 2012.

Racine is a stronger community today because of leaders like Parks and Reid-Owens who had the bravery and determination to create change, Mason stated.
Our students lose

A Tennessee school board has voted unanimously to ban from its eighth grade curriculum "Maus," a Pulitzer-Prize winning graphic novel about the Holocaust by underground cartoonist Art Spiegelman, The board objected to some profanity, a brief glimpse of a woman's breasts, and the depiction of violence, apparently shocked that a literary work about the Holocaust included violence. That the banning came a week before Holocaust Remembrance Day, and that the Nazis themselves banned books, only adds to the irony of this dreadful decision.

I taught "Maus" regularly in my Holocaust Studies class at Montana Tech, and I've published several essays about it. "Maus" is not just any book about the Holocaust; it's a masterpiece. That the form of "Maus" is a graphic novel is unprecedented, but that's also what makes it especially appealing to younger students, because a graphic novel is basically a comic book, a genre kids love.

But "Maus" isn't like "Batman." Spiegelman adopts a daring literary technique, by portraying all the characters as cartoon animals, with the Nazis as cats and the Jews as mice. The technique stresses how the Nazis saw the Jews as literally a different, subhuman species. The story of the survival of Art's father, Vladek, in Auschwitz is unforgettable. And the story of the post-Holocaust relationship between Vladek and his son Art is portrayed with extraordinary subtly and complexity and a complete lack of sentimentality, and is revealing about the often troubled relationships between Holocaust survivors and their children.

To deny students the chance to study in class this masterpiece, and deprive them of an opportunity to learn about the Holocaust, is disgraceful. History is often disturbing, and the Holocaust may be the most disturbing historical event ever, but that is no reason to shield students from its lessons. As the philosopher George Santayana said, those who forget history are doomed to repeat it.

The banning of "Maus" is part of a nationwide campaign by the right to expunge from school curriculum other "disturbing" subjects like slavery, LGBT stories, and trans people. Our students are the losers.

Henry Gonshak, Butte
Washington, Feb 3 : The US will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department has announced, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders.

The deployment includes 1,000 troops currently based in Germany to be repositioned to Romania and another 2,000 troops to be sent from the United States to Germany and Poland, John Kirby, the Defense Department's spokesman, was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency.

"These are not permanent moves. They are moves designed to respond to the current security environment. Moreover, these forces are not going to fight in Ukraine," Kirby said during a press conference at the Pentagon.

"These movements are unmistakable signals to the world that we stand ready to reassure our (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) allies and deter and defend against any aggression," he added.

The US has already put some 8,500 troops on "heightened alert," in preparation for what it claimed to be an "imminent" Russian invasion of Ukraine. The measure will enable the troops to be deployed on short notice if NATO decides to activate its rapid response force known as the NRF.

Kirby said the troops being deployed are separate from those put on high alert. They will operate on a bilateral basis with their host countries, and will be under US command -- not NATO command - since the alliance has yet to activate the NRF.

Repeatedly declining to say whether the deployment was in response to fears that Russia could attack a NATO country, the spokesman said the US troops could be augmented by additional deployments in the coming days or months, noting that other NATO countries - including the UK, France and Denmark - have also moved to shore up the alliance's eastern flank.

President Joe Biden said that on Friday he "will be moving US troops to Eastern Europe and the NATO countries in the near term." The president has maintained that no US forces will be sent directly to Ukraine, which is not a NATO member.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/us-allies-hunting-for-surplus-gas-to-fuel-europe-in-event-of-ukraine-conflict--1092702203.html

US, Allies Hunting for Surplus Gas to Fuel Europe in Event of Ukraine Conflict

US, Allies Hunting for Surplus Gas to Fuel Europe in Event of Ukraine Conflict

A senior Biden administration official told reporters last month that the US was exploring options to secure natural gas for European allies in the event of a... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T02:39+0000

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2022-08-06T13:28+0000

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As fears of a possible Ukraine military conflict persist, the US has reached out to China to inquire about surplus national gas supplies, according to a new Bloomberg report citing individuals familiar with the matter. Sources noted that talks with China have been limited of late, and have not resulted in any official agreements. Additionally, US and European officials from allied nations have reached out to several other Asian countries, including Japan, South Korea, and India, to inquire about potentially diverting surplus natural gas supplies to Europe. The hunt for natural gas in the current market is a difficult task, as no producer has expressed the ability to extract additional fuel at a short notice. As a result, Amos Hochstein, the US State Department's senior adviser for energy security, is leading the Biden administration in soliciting gas consumers about potentially forgoing fuel deliveries that could be diverted to Europe. Hochstein previously served as a Special Envoy for Coordinator for International Energy Affairs during the Obama administration. Washington's plans are based on a fear that Russia could invade Ukraine, a move that has repeatedly been denied by Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin. Nevertheless, the US and some of its European allies continue to insist that Moscow may carry out such an attack, and respond to retaliatory economic sanctions by eliminating or slashing natural gas exports to Europe. Europe relies on Russia for approximately 40% of its fuel supplies.News of the US reportedly reaching out to China about fuel supplies comes a week after the search was announced, and just days after US President Joe Biden claimed the US was "ready no matter what happens" with regard to Ukraine. "Weve been working to identify additional volumes of non-Russian natural gas from various areas of the world from North Africa and the Middle East to Asia and the United States," a senior Biden administration official told reporters last week. "If Russia decides to weaponize its supply of natural gas or crude oil, it wouldnt be without consequences to the Russian economy," claimed a second official.

https://sputniknews.com/20220125/us-studying-alternatives-to-russian-gas-in-north-africa-amid-ukraine-spat-white-house-says-1092512990.html

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New Delhi:

Kuldeep Singh Sengar, the expelled BJP leader, was found guilty in Unnao rape case. District and session Judge Dharmesh Sharma announced the verdict. Delhis Tis Hazari court convicted Sengar under the POCSO Act. The arguments on the sentencing will be held on December 19. The CBI had concluded its arguments and recording of statements of defence witnesses was completed in in-camera proceedings on December 2. The case was heard on a day-to-day basis from August 5 after Supreme Court directed to transfer the case to Delhi from a court in Lucknow. Sengar was expelled from the BJP in August 2019. The court had on August 9 framed charges against the MLA and Singh under Sections 120 b (criminal conspiracy), 363 (kidnapping), 366 (kidnapping or inducing a woman to compel for marriage), 376 (rape) and other relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Pronouncing the verdict, Judge Sharma said that it has been proven that at time of the rape in June 2017, the girl was a minor. The court also said that the girl, who comes from rural background, was getting lots of threats. The court also raised questions over the CBI probe. It is beyond comprehension why the CBI took so much time to file the chargesheet, the court said. Judge Sharma said that the CBI didnt follow the rules. Instead of going to her place to record the statement, the CBI called her to its office, which troubled the rape survivor. However, co-accused Shashi Singh has been acquitted.

In July 28 this year, the car of the woman who had accused Sengar was hit by a truck and she was severely injured. The woman's two aunts were killed in the accident and her family had alleged foul play. Her father was allegedly framed in an illegal arms case and arrested on April 3, 2018.

He died while in judicial custody a few days later, on April 9. The local court here has framed murder and other charges against the MLA, his brother Atul and nine others in the case. The apex court had on August 1 transferred all five cases registered in connection with the Unnao rape incident from a Lucknow court in Uttar Pradesh to the court in Delhi with directions to hold trial on daily basis and completing it within 45-days.

During the trial in the rape case which was held in-camera, thirteen prosecution witnesses and nine defence witnesses were examined. A special court was also held at AIIMS hospital here to record the statement of the rape survivor, who was admitted there after she was air-lifted from a hospital in Lucknow.

The woman and her family is provided CRPF security as per the apex court's orders. They have now been shifted to a rented accommodation in the national capital with the assistance of the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW).

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Its national signing day, and for the Ohio State football team, there shouldnt be a whole lot of drama. There are two players that have verbally committed that are supposed to sign Wednesday, all others signed their national letter of intent back in December, with eleven of them already on campus plugged into the football machine that is Ohio State.

The first bit of good news on that front is that four-star offensive lineman Carson Hinzman has been officially inked Wednesday morning. Out of Hammond, Wisconsin, Hinzman is ranked as the No. 9 interior offensive lineman and 172nd overall prospect in the 2022 class according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings.

Hinzman spoke to Buckeyes Wire earlier this month to explain his decision of picking the Buckeyes over his home state Wisconsin Badgers.

I went through pros and cons and talked it through with my parents, Hinzman told Buckeyes Wire. I had to think about what Ohio State can do for me even beyond football, and what Wisconsin can do. Honestly, just looking at the stuff, Ohio State came out on top. I hate to say it was a selfish decision, but I just had to do what was best for me, and in the end, that was Ohio State for what they offer.

Congrats to Hinzman and we cant wait to see what hell mean to this Ohio State team in the future. We feel pretty good about a guy that grew up on a farm all of his life and comes out of a state that grows pass and run blockers next to cheese and brats.

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Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly has raised more than $27.5 million for his reelection bid this fall, almost twice the total raised by a half-dozen Republican challengers, according to new campaign finance reports.

But political analysts said Kellys giant war chest  the fourth deepest among Senate campaigns nationwide in 2021  does not guarantee a win in a state like Arizona during a year that is expected to be rough for Democrats.

He could have unlimited amounts of money  but if the political environment is really bad for Democrats, as it might be, there may be no amount of money he could spend that saves himself, said Kyle Kondik, managing editor of Sabatos Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia Center for Politics. He calls the Arizona Senate race a toss-up.

But for now, Kellys in a good position. Besides a sizable fundraising lead, he does not have a Democratic primary challenger, while his would-be Republican opponents face a bruising and costly primary before they can turn their sights on Kelly.

A poll released Tuesday by OH Predictive Insights suggested Kelly would get 42% of the vote to 38% for any Republican candidate, with 19% of voters undecided. The online poll of 855 registered Arizona voters was taken Jan. 11-13 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.4%.

Attorney General Mark Brnovich led the Republican field in the poll, with 25% of GOP voters, with Mick McGuire, the former adjutant general of the Arizona National Guard, in second place with 11%. The two biggest fundraisers on the Republican side, relative unknowns Jim Lamon and Blake Masters, finished in the single digits in the poll.

In reports released Monday by the Federal Election Commission, Lamon reported raising almost $8.6 million and having $5.9 million in the bank as of Dec. 31, while Masters reported raising $2.6 million and having $1.8 on hand.

Brnovich raised $1.8 million last year and had $768,002 on hand while McGuire reported pulling in $946,965 and having $225,477 in the bank.

Lamons campaign has been largely self-funded so far: The businessman loaned $8 million of his own money to his campaign.

And Masters FEC report does not include the Saving Arizona PAC, a political action committee funded with $10 million from PayPal founder Peter Thiel. Masters is a Thiel protege, co-authoring books with him and serving as an officer of Thiel Capital and the Thiel Foundation.

If you compare the candidates and take out the self-funding, everyones on competitive ground, said McGuire campaign spokesperson Lisa James, who said the campaign is very confident about its current position.

The crowded field could work to the detriment of the GOP, with the primary not until August, just three months before the general election.

Because of the long campaign, youre going to see the candidates turn on each other to try and differentiate themselves from each other, said Bill Scheel, a partner with the Arizona consulting firm Javelina.

Another challenge for Republicans is name recognition. Except for Brnovich, few are well-known to state voters.

Its pretty obvious that none of the Republican candidates have really caught on with the donors yet, Scheel said. And I think the fact that you have four candidates makes that more difficult because there hasnt been a clear front-runner.

That could change if former President Donald Trump gets involved. He has so far refused to endorse a GOP candidate in the Senate race.

One of the biggest questions in the Republican primary is what does former President Trump do? said Nathan Gonzales, the editor and publisher of Inside Elections. Having his endorsement, particularly in a crowded race, could help one candidate get over the top.

But Gonzales added that Trump can be a blessing and a curse for Republicans, particularly in a state like Arizona which narrowly went for President Joe Biden over Trump in 2020.

Whoever emerges on the GOP side, analysts expect the race will tighten and the fundraising on both sides will continue to increase.

Few doubt the ability of Kelly, who raised more than $101 million for his 2020 election and who analysts variously referred to as a fundraising juggernaut and fundraising behemoth. His latest FEC report said he had $18.6 million cash on hand compared to $8.7 million for all the GOP candidates combined.

I would expect him to keep getting bigger and bigger totals as we get closer to election day, said Jessica Taylor, the Senate and governor editor of Cook Political Report with Amy Walter.

Kondik said Kelly has enough money to get his message out, but so do the Republicans. Kellys current funding lead will only go so far in a year that will be pretty challenging for the Democrats, both in Arizona and across the country, Kondik said.

The campaign is sure to draw national attention: Arizona is considered a swing state and, with the current Senate divided 50-50, control of the body goes to whichever party can pick up a seat.

Every single Senate race is the tiebreaker, given that we are in a 50-50 Senate, Taylor said.

Gonzales agreed with Kondik that Kelly is on track to have the resources that he needs and the money that he needs to get his message out, but that he may need it if the campaign proves to be as challenging for Democrats as many expect.

This is a race to get the most votes and not a race to raise the most money, Gonzales said.
Local Boy Scouts throughout Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia will be collecting food this month for area food banks.

The Sequoyah Council, Boy Scouts of America, which is based in Johnson City, is partnering with Food City, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee and Feeding Southwest Virginia to fight hunger in the region during the annual Scouting for Food initiative, according to a news release. The Scouting for Food event will take place Feb. 5-12. Local Scout Units and Food City will have donation drop-off locations throughout Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

Before last year, Scouts collected items in the fall and picked them up door-to-door.

Greg Leitch, Scout executive and CEO, said the Scouting for Food date change was a combination of factors. He said local food banks had asked for more help post-holiday season, such as the beginning of the year, rather than the fall.

Leitch said the organization also wanted to involve local churches during the Scout Sunday events. The organization also wanted to include the food drive drop points with the Continuous Campfire events around the region, he said.

Due to COVID-19 protocols, there will be no door-to-door collections.

The event coincides with Scout Anniversary Week.

Feeding Southwest Virginia and Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee report serving more than 149,000 people with food insecurity the region, the release states. These families were uncertain of having, or unable to acquire, enough food to meet the needs of all their members. Every community in the country is home to families who face hunger, but rural communities are especially hard hit, the release states. Many of those families that will face food insecurity do not qualify for federal nutrition programs and rely on local food banks and other programs for support.

People in our region depend on drives like this to stock local food shelves and ensure they are always able to provide families with the food they need, the release states. Now more than ever, it is important to find safe ways to continue to partner with our local food banks to help those families with food insecurities.

People interested in donating, can drop off nonperishable or shelf-stable items like canned soup, meats, stews, fruits, vegetables and milk. Avoid donating things like perishable items in the drop-off bins inside the store.

Individuals can also check out SequoyahCouncil.org/SFF for a list of drop-off locations.

Food banks are in need of items that are difficult to collect such as milk, fresh produce, meat and bread. Residents are recommended to make monetary donations for such items. To do so, visit the Sequoyah Council website.
Price has been hiked as the raw materials used for Paracetamol have increased up to 4-5 per cent, said Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Association (PPMA) chairman, reported ARY News.

Meanwhile, Pakistan is currently facing the fifth COVID-19 wave and the number of active cases across the country has crossed the 100,000 mark.

The PPMA chairman, in a statement, said that DRAP showed agreement to fix the price of paracetamol.

According to the officials, DRAP will forward a summary to the federal cabinet for increasing the price of paracetamol, reported the news channel.

Amid the fifth deadly wave of COVID in Pakistan, Paracetamol has disappeared from many of Pakistan's pharmacies and is reportedly being sold in the black market, reported Dawn on Tuesday.

A DRAP official attributed the shortage of Paracetamol to the rising number of dengue cases.

The regulatory on Tuesday issued show-cause notices to 15 pharmaceutical companies for failing to manufacture, Paracetamol, despite having licenses. (ANI)
Activists calling for a boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics due to concerns over China's human rights record rally at the Chinese Consulate in Los Angeles, CA, Nov. 3, 2021. The flames in the torch on the placard represent Uyghur, Tibetans, Hong Kongers and other targets of Chinese repression.

U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley is chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), a body set up in 2000 to monitor Chinas compliance with international human rights standards, to promote the development of rule of law in China, and to maintain a list of victims of human rights abuses in China. He spoke to Carmen Wu of RFAs Cantonese Service in Wednesday about the #OlympicPrisoner social media project highlighting cases of political prisoners drawn from the CECCs Political Prisoner Database during the Feb. 4-18 Beijing Winter Olympics. The senator from Oregon also discussed human rights developments in Xinjiang, Hong Kong and other parts of China in the year since he took over the helm of the bipartisan CECC. The interview has been edited for length.

RFA: Can you explain how the CECC came up with the #OlympicPrisoner social media project?

Merkley: It's of great concern that the Winter Olympics are being held in China, and China is using the glitz and glamor of Olympic gold to distract attention from their horrific human rights abuses, abuses that include the enslavement of the Uyghur ethnic community, certainly the treatment of Tibet, the crushing of political rights in Hong Kong and the treatment of journalists, human rights lawyers and other advocates. So this is a piece of that overall effort to draw attention to these concerns. And specifically, the Olympic prisoner project includes highlighting some 60 individuals representing all aspects of that oppression. I am so disturbed that the Olympics are being used to help a country obscure, hide or overlook its horrific treatment of individuals.

RFA: I noticed that there are a lot of retweets on the post about Hong Kong political prisoners like Joshua Wong. It has been retweeted more than 400 times.

Merkley: We certainly do have a significant Hong Kong diaspora that is helping to illuminate the loss of rights and the fight for those human rights and freedom of the press in Hong Kong. The crackdowns in recent years have necessitated that for the first time, the Congressional Executive Commission on China includes Hong Kong political prisoners on the commission's political prisoner database. I never thought I'd see the day when that would be necessary, but that is the sad reality now. And even as we advocate for those who are currently detained, we need to protect those who are fleeing persecution. It's why I'm working with my colleagues to open up humanitarian pathways for people of Hong Kong to find safe haven in the United States, safe haven elsewhere.

RFA: How did you decide which 60 cases to be highlighted from the database?

Merkley:We have over 10,000 files, and over 2,000 of those individuals in that database are currently in prison. And so it has grown significantly as China's abuse has grown significantly. We have a professional, nonpartisan staff, so this is Democrats and Republicans working together to provide as representative sample as possible. And so they selected cases of Hongkongers, Uyghurs, Tibetans, advocates for religious freedom, human rights lawyers who have been detained and locked up, journalists, environmental advocates, civil society, women's rights defenders and workers rights defenders.

RFA: The Olympics are right around the corner. What message do you want to tell the U.S. athletes competing in Beijing about the situation in China?

Merkley: I say to the athletes, if you're aware of the circumstances in China, you will do a great service to the world if you draw attention to them while you're at the games. The protection of the International Olympic Committee has now promised to give you to speak up on behalf of the Uyghur community, the Tibetans, the imprisoned human rights lawyers, imprisoned journalists, the crushing of rights in Hong Kong. As you choose, if one speaks to your heart and you want to highlight it, please do so. The only way freedom thrives in this world is for us to resist oppression in every form, and you can use your special status as an incredible athlete at this moment when the world is paying attention to draw attention to these horrific circumstances that are underway in the host nation.
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New Delhi:

Jamia Millia Islamia, the prestigious Central University, became the epicentre of Delhi Polices brutal crackdown against Citizenship Act protesters on Sunday. While situation remains calm-yet-tense in this posh south Delhi locality, the police action has triggered massive protests by students across India. From Kolkatas Jadavpur University to Hyderabads Maulana Azad National Urdu University, students have begun their agitation against the authorities. Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) students' union wrote to controller of examination of university, stating 'due to protests by MANUU students against police's attack on Jamia and AMU students, MANUU students are boycotting exams, request you to postpone the same.' While the Delhi Police maintains that the action was needed to curb the violence as stones were being pelted on them from inside the university, the students claimed that tear gas was lobbed inside the Jamias central library and some of them were dragged, thrashed by the cops.

Students across Indias top universities are protesting against police aggression shown to their peers in Jamia. From candlelight vigils to marches, students in Hyderabad, Varanasi and Jadavpur are showing solidarity for their friends in Jamia. Meanwhile, students of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences have also decided to boycott the Monday classes over the police action. In the lights of events of relentless police brutality in the past week in universities of north East India, Jamia Milia Islamia and Aligarh Muslim University We the students of TISS have decided to call a boycott of today's classes and field work, a statement by TISS students said.

In UPs Aligarh, the Aligarh Muslim University administration on Sunday night announced that the institution will remain closed till January 5 after clashes broke out between police and students protesting against the Citizenship Amendment Act near the campus gate. Meanwhile, has been suspended for the next 24 hours till 10 pm December 16 following the clashes. The university is closed from today (15/12/2019) till 05/01/2020. This is being done due to disturbances created by some antisocial elements for the last three days, AMU Registrar Abdul Hamid said. The announcement came after hundreds of AMU students protesting against the amended legislation clashed with police which used batons and teargas to disperse them.

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On the eastern states ... weve had to change how close contact rules work, because that impacts then on workforce and how many people you have working in health and aged care and in food distribution centres, driving trucks, so youve really had to completely change. And thats what we were doing over the summer and that had some pretty significant impacts. Our experience in the east has been different to the west and the west has done incredibly well, and I commend Mark for that. Mr Morrison said the decision to open up would be Mr McGowans, and it would have Commonwealth support. He has to make that decision based on what he thinks his health system is ready to absorb  at the end of the day, Mark McGowans got to make that call and weve been supporting him.

Loading Mr McGowan was also on breakfast radio on Thursday, as he faced pressure on when the border may open again and what public health social measures may be enforced in the future. The Premier remained steadfast that he wanted to get vaccine rates up and told ABC Perth that opening the border would not simply see the Omicron pandemic wash over and be done. Its not as though theres one wave, therell be further waves, Mr McGowan said. So you need to take that into account. Were told at national cabinet that theyre expecting another wave of the virus over the coming months, so the eastern states will have another wave.

Chances are youll get a wave when we open, but it may not be the last wave. The Premier said the growth in vaccine take-up was higher than the rate vaccine efficacy was waning. Mr Morrison also heaped praise on WAs vaccination rate. Your double-dose rate in WA is now higher than Queensland, and thats great [in WA] because you havent had the spread of the virus in WA like the eastern states have, he said. I think thats a pretty stunning effort for Western Australia to catch up and to be where they now are on boosters.

The limbo period ahead of restrictions and further Omicron spread is creating tension as voices in the business and education sectors call for a reduction in the 14-day quarantine period for close contacts to seven days. Mr McGowan said Education Minister Sue Ellery was looking at whether large assemblies at schools should be held after hundreds of students were put into isolation following a positive test this week. But schools also need to function and operate, he said. I dont want to disrupt the school year too much before we need to. At this point in time thats, you know, different to the tens of thousands of cases per day other states are experiencing, but over time, we will get to a seven-day quarantine period, I realised, you know, everyones agitated about 14 days versus seven days.

We are functioning very normally compared to anywhere else in Australia. Queensland, all their schools are closed currently for two weeks, every school, best part of a million students, South Australia; half their students arent at school, in Victoria theyve got nearly 400 schools reporting COVID. So we have three [schools] with a group of students quarantining. Fifteen out of 19 new cases already isolated The majority of new community cases in WA were people linked to known clusters and already in self-isolation when they tested positive.
Exelon is breaking up into two separate companies.

The Quad Cities Generating Station, in Cordova, Ill., and other nuclear power plants will now be run by Constellation, while the gas and utilities companies will be run by Exelon. Both companies will be traded publicly as separate entities.

Paul Adams, corporate communications manager for Constellation, said employees of the Quad Cities Generating Station will feel no impact from the change.

"To put it simply, Exelon split into two companies today and the power generation business is now called Constellation," Adams said. "That said, nothing will change locally."

Constellation is now the nations largest producer of carbon-free energy and the leading competitive retail supplier of power and energy products and services for homes and businesses across the United States.

"The future health and prosperity of our nation is inextricably linked to our success in eliminating carbon pollution, and our entire focus will be on helping our customers and communities achieve that goal, said Joseph Dominguez, CEO of Constellation in a news release. "Our clean generation fleet and leading customer-facing platform are the foundation on which we will sustain and grow our business. Today begins an exciting transition for our company and employees as we affirm our mission to accelerate the transition to a carbon-free future and advance economic progress and equity in the communities we serve."

According to the company, its generation fleet powers more than 20 million homes and businesses and is helping to accelerate the nations transition to clean energy with more than 32,400 megawatts of capacity and annual output that is nearly 90% carbon-free.

Constellation representatives said the company aims to achieve 95% carbon-free electricity by 2030.

It currently provides 10% of all clean power on the grid in the U.S. through its fleet of nuclear, hydro, wind and solar generation facilities.
hireEZ (fka Hiretual), a Mountain View, Calif.-based provider of an AI-powered global talent platform, closed a $26m funding round.

The round was led by Conductive Ventures.

The company intends to use the funds to invest further in product innovation, expand operations, scale the team globally and broaden the possibilities of outbound recruiting.

Led by Steven Jiang, Founder & CEO, hireEZ is an AI-powered outbound recruitment platform that gives recruiters access to untapped talent pools, scalable candidate engagement automation and integrations with ATS and CRM platforms. With hireEZ, organizations can achieve their goals by hiring the right people and bring visibility of underrepresented talent with access to more than 750 million candidate profiles from 45+ open web platforms for more than 5,000 leading companies worldwide.

FinSMEs

03/02/2022




The White House unveiled its team to help with the confirmation process for President Biden's eventual nominee for the Supreme Court, with former Sen. Doug Jones (D-Ala.) leading it as nomination adviser, along with two veteran Democratic communicators.

Minyon Moore, who served as director of White House political affairs for former President Clinton, and Ben LaBolt, who served as campaign and White House spokesman for former President Obama, will also be on the team.

Moore will be nomination adviser for engagement, responsible for building support with outside groups, and LaBolt will be nomination adviser for communications.

The team of White House officials advising Biden on his selection includes Vice President Harris, White House chief of staff Ron Klain, Director of Legislative Affairs Louisa Terrell, White House senior adviser Cedric Richmond, and Paige Herwig, a lawyer in the counsel's office who works on judicial nominations.

Biden has not yet named his pick to replace Justice Stephen Breyer, who announced his retirement from the high court on Thursday and is expected to retire over the summer. The president has promised to nominate the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

U.S. District Judge J. Michelle Childs is the only person the White House has publicly said to be in the running for a nomination to Breyer's seat. Other names floated have included Ketanji Brown Jackson, who is on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, and California Supreme Court Justice Leondra Kruger.

Jones, who will be the so-called sherpa for the eventual nominee, lost his reelection bid in 2020 and was on the short list for attorney general before Biden named Merrick Garland to the post.

Jones joined law and lobbying firm Arent Fox in May as counsel in the firm's government relations, government enforcement and white collar groups. He is also a political commentator for CNN and was a fellow at the Georgetown Institute of Politics and Public Service.

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In 2017, Jones won a special election to replace former Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who resigned from the Senate to serve in the Trump administration. Jones lost his reelection to Republican Tommy Tuberville.

The former senator was nominated by President Clinton in 1997 to serve as U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, during which he famously prosecuted and won the conviction of two Ku Klux Klan members for the deadly 1963 Birmingham church bombing. He formed the Birmingham firm Jones & Hawley PC in 2013.

Moore is currently a principal at public affairs firm Dewey Square Group and is the former chief operating officer of the Democratic National Committee. She was an adviser on Hillary Clinton's 2008 presidential campaign and co-authored "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Politics" in 2018.

LaBolt served as the White House spokesman on the team to confirm Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan during the Obama administration. He is a partner at public affairs firm Bully Pulpit Interactive and worked as communications director for Rahm Emanuel when he was mayor of Chicago.

"One the things I'm proudest of is serving on the confirmation teams for Justices Sotomayor and Kagan. Grateful to be able to join immensely talented colleagues to suit up again (literally), advise on comms and ensure that @POTUS' nominee is considered and confirmed expeditiously," LaBolt said on Twitter on Wednesday after the announcement.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Tuesday said the White House intended to have a team in place before Biden makes a nominee selection. She also pointed to the historic nature of using a team to sherpa through a nominee.

Morgan Chalfant contributed to this report.
Car washes in Pottsville had a steady stream of customers Wednesday as people stopped to clean the outside and inside of their vehicles.

Their efforts are in advance of more winter weather starting tonight. Precipitation will begin as rain Thursday afternoon, as temperatures will be in the low to mid-40s, according to AccuWeather.

There is expected to be a big drop in temperature early Friday morning, resulting in freezing rain in time for the morning commute. Icy conditions are predicted to remain until the afternoon hours Friday as the back end of the system moves through the region, according to AccuWeather.

The weekend looks to be cold but dry, according to AccuWeather.

The major winter storm brought a mix of rain, freezing rain and snow to the central U.S. on Wednesday as airlines canceled thousands of flights, officials urged residents to stay off roads and schools closed campuses.

The blast of frigid weather, which began arriving Tuesday night, put a long stretch of states from New Mexico and Colorado to Maine under winter storm warnings and watches. On Wednesday morning, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan saw freezing rain, sleet and snow.

By midday Wednesday, some places had already reported snow totals exceeding or nearing a foot, including the central Illinois town of Lewistown with 14.4 inches and the northeastern Missouri city of Hannibal with 11.5 inches.

The storm's path extended as far south as Texas, nearly a year after a catastrophic freeze buckled the state's power grid in one of the worst blackouts in U.S. history. The forecast did not call for the same prolonged and frigid temperatures as the February 2021 storm, and the National Weather Service said the system would, generally, not be as bad this time for Texas.

(The Associated Press contributed to this report)

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Published on 2022/02/02 | Source

"Bad and Crazy" Lee Dong-wook expressed his sincere feelings about the end of the show.

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On the 28th, the agency King Kong by Starship released a photo with Lee Dong-wook's thoughts on ending the tvN Friday-Saturday drama "Bad and Crazy", which ended on the same day.

Lee Dong-wook said in a written interview, "I finished filming for six months safely and finished the broadcast". He then said, "I would like to thank the viewers for supporting and loving Soo-yeol's growth. "Bad and Crazy" was a new challenge and a fierce experience. I am truly grateful that you stayed with Soo-yeol and I until the end".

Lee Dong-wook did not forget to mention the production crew. He said, "Thank you (director Yoo Seon-dong) for always putting my opinion first and creating a scene where I can act freely without any restrictions. And I'm so grateful to the actors who acted with me and our staff who would have worked a hundred times harder behind the screen", he said, expressing his sincerity to the people he worked with.

Finally, Lee Dong-wook said, "Experiences through "Bad and Crazy" will be a valuable nourishment for my acting life in the future. It was a crazy ride. I will come back with another work and another character. Happy New Year", he said, wrapping up his thoughts on ending the show.

Lee Dong-wook received favorable reviews from many people for his role as Ryoo Soo-yeol, the head of the anti-corruption investigation team and another personality of K (Wi Ha-jun) in "Bad & Crazy".
Dr Kathy Abbass, executive director of Rhode Island Marine Archaeology, hit out at those claims, saying findings will be 'driven by proper scientific process and not Australian emotions or politics'

An Australian museum's announcement that James Cook's ship HMS Endeavour has been found is 'premature', the American chief investigator of the archaeological team searching for the ship has claimed.

Cook famously sailed the ship around the South Pacific before he landed on the east coast of Australia in 1770 - with the wreckage laying in US waters for almost 250 years.

Australian National Maritime Museum chief executive Kevin Sumption confirmed on Thursday the shipwreck of Cook's vessel had been identified in Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, where maritime archaeologists had been investigating several 18th century shipwrecks since 1999.

However, Dr Kathy Abbass, executive director of Rhode Island Marine Archaeology, hit out at those claims, saying findings will be 'driven by proper scientific process and not Australian emotions or politics'.

'The Australian National Maritime Museum announcement today is a breach of the contract... for the conduct of this research and how its results are to be shared with the public,' Dr Abbass said.

The shipwreck of James Cook's 'Endeavour' has been identified in Newport Harbour in the US

'What we see on the shipwreck site under study is consistent with what might be expected of the Endeavour, but there has been no indisputable data found to prove the site is that iconic vessel, and there are many unanswered questions that could overturn such an identification.

'RIMAP is now and always has been the lead organization for the study in Newport harbor.'

The Australian National Maritime Museum issued an immediate and defiant response, saying Ms Abbass 'can have her opinion and we've got ours'.

'We don't believe we are in breach of contract,' a spokesperson said.

'We are about to embark on a due process of putting the paper out to the archaeological community and so further insights will be made as happens with all archaeological projects.

'She can have her opinion and we've got ours.'

HMS Endeavour has been found in US waters, where it has spent the last two centuries. Pictured is the Endeavour replica ship

The Endeavour was scuttled in Newport Harbour by British forces during the American War of Independence in 1788, where it lay forgotten for more than two centuries.

'It's arguably one of the most important vessels in Australia's maritime history,' Mr Sumption told reporters.

'I am satisfied that this is the final resting place of one of the most important and contentious vessels in Australia's maritime history,'

The last pieces of the puzzle had to be confirmed before I felt able to make this call.

'Based on archival and archaeological evidence, I'm convinced it's the Endeavour.'

'It's an important historical moment, as this vessel's role in exploration, astronomy and science applies not just to Australia, but also Aotearoa New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.'

However, Australia has since been accused of jumping the gun by the lead investigator on the project.

British explorer James Cook (pictured) sailed the ship around the South Pacific before landing on the east coast of Australia in 1770

Why they're so sure the shipwreck is the Endeavour *The structural details and shape of the remains closely match historic plans of Endeavour. *The construction of the keel along the bottom of the ship and the joinery used in its bow at the front are identical to those shown on 18th-century plans of the Endeavour. The placement of the vessel's fore and main mast are also identical to the plans. *Historical evidence indicates the ship was sunk in the United States just north of Goat Island in Newport Harbour, along with four other British ships. *The ship was the largest of the five scuttled ships in that area. *The length of the surviving hull is almost exactly the same as that recorded for Endeavour. Advertisement

Several details on the wreck convinced archaeologists they had found Endeavour after matching structural details and the shape of the remains to those on 18th century plans of Endeavour.

Just 15 per cent of the vessel remains with researchers now focused on what can be done to protect and preserve it.

'We will continue to investigate and look closely with maritime experts at Rhode Island about the future of this site and what should happen to this site but certainly protection is what we're working towards right now,' Mr Sumption said.

Originally launched in 1764 as the Earl of Pembroke, the ship was renamed Endeavour in 1768 by Britain's Royal Navy and prepared for a major scientific voyage to the Pacific.

From 1768 to 1771 Endeavour sailed the South Pacific, primarily to record the transit of Venus in Tahiti in 1769.

Cook then sailed it around the South Pacific searching for 'the Great Southern Land', charting the coast of New Zealand and Australia's eastern coastline before claiming the land for Great Britain on August 22, 1770.

Captain James Cook is pictured landing on the east coast of Australia in 1770

Endeavour was later sold to private owners, renamed as Lord Sandwich and was deliberately sunk in 1778 by British forces during the American War of Independence.

A year later Cook was killed in Hawaii during his third Pacific voyage, 10 years before the First Fleet arrived in NSW to establish a British colony.

Researchers are finalising their report on the site, which will be peer-reviewed and published.
Georgetown Law has been accused of having a double standard when it comes to disciplinary action against faculty after it placed one professor one leave for criticizing Joe Biden but not another who took a shot at Donald Trump.

Newly hired Ilya Shapiro, who was placed on administrative leave ahead of his February 1 start date, drew outrage from the student body and other Twitter users over his apparent suggestion that the best Supreme Court nominee to replace Justice Stephen Breyer could not be a black woman.

'Objectively best pick for Biden is Sri Srinivasan, who is solid prog & v smart [sic],' he tweeted. 'Even has identify politics benefit of being first Asian (Indian) American. But alas doesn't fit into the latest intersectionality hierarchy so we'll get lesser black woman. Thank heaven for small favors?'

However, the university neglected to take action against law professor Heidi Li Feldman in 2020 after she took to Twitter arguing 'law professors and law school deans' should 'not support applications from our students to clerk for' judges appointed by former President Donald Trump. She also said working 'for such a judge indelibly marks a lawyer as lacking in the character and judgment necessary for the practice of law.'

Political reporter Aaron Sibarium now argues the prestigious university allows left-leaning professors 'an immunity that is not afforded to right-leaning professors' such as Shapiro.

Sibarium alleged that although Feldman's tweet appeared to violate the school and city's non-discrimination policies prohibiting discrimination and harassment based on political affiliation, she remains employed. He added: 'There is no record of any administrative action being taken against her.'

Meanwhile, more than 170 university faculty members signed a letter issuing their support for Shapiro and arguing his firing - which several students have called for - would be 'contrary to basic academic freedom principles' that Georgetown applies to the entire academic community.

A political reporter is slamming Georgetown Law for taking disciplinary action against Ilya Shapiro (left) over his controversial tweets about Biden's SCOTUS nominee. The journalist alleged the university neglected to take action against Heidi Li Feldman (right) in 2020 after she said faculty should not support students who want to clerk for Trump judges

The reporter alleged the prestigious law school allows left-leaning professors 'an immunity that is not afforded to right-leaning professors' (Pictured: Georgetown University Law Center)

Shapiro is currently on leave while the university conducts an internal investigation into whether he violated any school policies, despite not being employed by the establishment at the time he made the insensitive remarks.

'Ilya Shapiro's tweets are antithetical to the work that we do here every day to build inclusion, belonging and respect for diversity,' Dean Bill Treanor wrote in a letter to the law school community.

He added that Shapiro's words were 'appalling' and 'demeaning' words were 'at odds with everything' the law school stands for.

However, Sibarium is now questioning the school's decision, citing a 2018 situation in which the university claimed school policy doesn't prohibit the expression of controversial ideas.

According to the reporter, in 2018 security studies professor Christine Fair argued supporters of Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation 'deserve miserable deaths while feminists laugh as they take their last gasps'. She also said afterwards people should 'castrate their corpses and feed them to swine'.

Although Twitter temporarily suspended Fair's account, the university reportedly took no action against her.

In fact, at the time, a Georgetown spokesperson told Fox News: 'Our policy does not prohibit speech based on the person presenting ideas or the content of those ideas, even when those ideas may be difficult, controversial or objectionable.'

However, the university neglected to take action against Heidi Li Feldman in 2020 after she took to Twitter arguing 'law professors and law school deans' should 'not support applications from our students to clerk for' judges appointed by former President Donald Trump

Disciplinary action was taken against Shapiro after his controversial tweet, despite the fact that he later tweeted an apology, saying: 'I meant no offense, but it was an inartful tweet. I have taken it down.'

Shapiro was hired to join Georgetown's law faculty as executive director of the Georgetown Center for the Constitution but now his position is in doubt.

On Monday, Shapiro tweeted his confidence that following an investigation by the university he will be allowed to take up his posting in full.

'I'm optimistic that Georgetown's investigation will be fair, impartial, and professional, though there's really not much to investigate. And I'm confident that it will reach the only reasonable conclusion: my Tweet didn't violate any university rule or policy, and indeed is protected by Georgetown policies on free expression. Accordingly, I expect to be vindicated and look forward to joining my new colleagues in short order,' he wrote.

Biden announced last week that he'd fulfill his campaign promise to nominate the first black female justice as Justice Stephen Breyer said he would retire. The 83-year-old liberal is the oldest member of the bench.

Disciplinary action was taken against Shapiro after he posted on Twitter questioning the qualifications of any black woman that President Joe Biden may nominate to replace Justice Stephen Breyer

On Friday, Georgetown University's Black Law Students Association had demanded his job offer be rescinded, describing the tweet as 'offensive, racist, sexist, and misogynistic.'

'The tweets' suggestion that the best Supreme Court nominee could not be a black woman and their use of demeaning language are appalling,' Georgetown University said in a statement.

'The tweets are at odds with everything we stand for at Georgetown Law and are damaging to the culture of equity and inclusion that Georgetown Law is building every day.'

On Friday, Shapiro made his first apology, saying: 'I regret my poor choice of words, which undermined my message that nobody should be discriminated against for his or her skin color.'

'Objectively best pick for Biden is Sri Srinivasan (pictured), who is solid prog & v smart. Even has identify politics benefit of being first Asian (Indian) American. But alas doesn't fit into the latest intersectionality hierarchy so we'll get lesser black woman,' Shapiro wrote

'While it's important that a wide variety of perspectives and backgrounds be represented in the judiciary, so blatantly using identity politics in choosing Supreme Court justices is discrediting to a vital institution.

'Chief Judge Sri Srinivasan is, in my mind, the most qualified nominee a Democratic president could choose. Reasonable people can disagree on that particular assessment, but it's a shame that he and other men and women of every race are excluded from the outset of the selection process,' he explained.

Shapiro also penned something similar in an apology that was sent directly into the inboxes of the Georgetown community.

'In seeking to join the Georgetown community, I wanted to contribute to your worthy mission to educate students, inform the public, and engage in the battle of legal ideas that lead to justice and fairness. I still want to do that. Recklessly framed tweets like this week's obviously don't advance that mission, for which I am also truly sorry. Regardless of whether anyone agrees or disagrees with me on a host of legal and policy issues, I can and will do better with regard to how I communicate my positions,' he wrote.

Some free speech activists have thrown their support behind Shapiro.

'Academic freedom protects Shapiros views, regardless of whether we agree with them or not,' wrote the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, an advocacy group that focuses on First Amendment issues.

'And debate about the presidents nomination, and about whether race and sex play a proper role in such nominations more generally, would be impoverished  at Georgetown and elsewhere  if this view could not be safely expressed in universities,' the group wrote in a letter.

Shapiro will remain off the Georgetown campus while the investigation takes place.
In recent days, Dimon, Solomon and Morgan Stanleys James Gorman were each awarded about $US35 million for their work last year  more than any of their banks have lavished on a CEO since 2007. That, in turn, has lifted the ceiling for moneymakers within those firms. Wall Streeters are buzzing about the swelling number of people scoring eight-figure pay packages this year. The top earners at Goldman will be approaching $US30 million, with some even exceeding that mark, people familiar with the matter have said. Those rewards included special one-time payouts for a few hundred top executives. David Solomon has pocketed $US35 million for his work last year. Credit:Bloomberg And at Jefferies Financial Group, pay for some of the best performers has surpassed $US25 million, people with knowledge of the matter said. Theres a notable feature: Executives can elect to get paid in cash, unlike the stock-heavy compensation at larger rivals. Of course, even in lean years, Wall Streeters fare better than people in many other swathes of the US economy.

Every one of us in our industry is overpaid, Jefferies CEO Rich Handler said. When you go home and look at yourself in the mirror, every one of us should count our lucky stars. Its not just in 2021, Ive said the same thing in very challenging pay periods as well. Industry veterans point to 2009 as the last time when US investment banks opened their wallets so generously. That time, it triggered a swift rebuke from lawmakers. They accused bankers of rewarding themselves after taxpayer-funded bailouts that saved the industry from oblivion and helped markets rebound, as the rest of the economy struggled. Every one of us in our industry is overpaid. When you go home and look at yourself in the mirror, every one of us should count our lucky stars. Jefferies CEO Rich Handler There are some echoes of that in the pandemic. As commerce shut down in 2020, government programs and Federal Reserve stimulus propped up the economy and markets, unleashing a frenzy of corporate dealmaking and trading. Investment banks, worried about the optics, showed some restraint when setting bonuses at the end of that year. But as the boom rumbled into 2021, Wall Street professionals demanded more and began defecting, pushing firms to pay up.

As a full-blooded progressive, I can appreciate how the public would feel cynical about Wall Streets efforts, said Jon Corzine, the former Goldman CEO and ex-New Jersey governor. But it is a necessity in the context of the competitive nature of hiring and retaining the best talent. Might banks use this years round of raises to address the gaps in pay that impact women and minorities? One reason thats unlikely is that Wall Street compensation is closely tied to job titles and the revenue they generate. Sweet rewards for multimillionaires The biggest bonuses will go to the top performers and are not going to be spread like any kind of peanut butter, said Betsy Duke, a former Federal Reserve governor who was also chair of Wells Fargo. The difference in total pay for women and minorities is due to where they are organisationally, she said. The lower-pay levels tend to be more heavily weighted with women and minorities.

One reason banks are under so much pressure to sweeten rewards for multimillionaires is that the sector has slipped behind other parts of the financial and technology industries. Back in 2007, the head of Goldman Sachs was one of the highest-paid executives in the broadest definition of Wall Street. Today, when it comes to pay, banks occupy a relatively impoverished corner of the financial metaverse. Private equity firms dole out far more to their leaders. And then theres the riches being minted at Silicon Valley ventures and in cryptocurrencies. In different eras, Wall Street really stood out alone, Corzine said. Thats not the case now. Big-ticket Barolos He would know: About 30 years ago, when Corzine was at Goldman, a leaked survey of senior leaders showed their worries about a culture of greed taking hold: There is a need to redesign the compensation system. People have gotten rich very quickly, one partner said. They tend to get more difficult.

Wall Streets denizens are starting to spend their windfall. Real estate agent Frances Katzen recently helped a client upgrade from his two-bedroom apartment in TriBeCa to his buildings five-bedroom penthouse with a 3,000-square-foot terrace, at a price just under $US8 million that had previously been out of his comfort zone. Loading He tapped me on the shoulder around November, Katzen said. He said, I know what my vesting schedule is and what Im probably going to get paid, and I feel really good about it based on my production as a team. At Babbo in Greenwich Village, sommelier Juan Pablo Escobar keeps adding to the list of big-ticket Barolos customers have ordered in the past week or so, many costing a few thousands dollars  such as 1.5 litres of 1985 Bartolo Mascarello for $US,3700. A strong pipeline for mergers and recent bouts of trading volatility show the party among bankers and traders could continue well into 2022.
Wilkes-Barre, PA (18701)

Today

Cloudy skies with a few showers after midnight. Low 46F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies with a few showers after midnight. Low 46F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
A fired up Daniel Andrews has defended his decision to enforce Covid-19 vaccine mandates, bragging making unpopular decisions is what leaders do.

The Victorian Premier hit back at critics at a press conference on Wednesday, a week after he called for the booster shot to be mandated and the definition of 'fully vaccinated' to be tweaked from two doses to three.

The proposed change is one of many calls Mr Andrews has been slammed for in the last two years - with the Premier imposing stay-at-home orders on Melburnians for more than 260 days in the world's longest lockdown.

He recently imposed vaccine mandates on various industries and venues while workers in some sectors are now required to get a booster shot, decisions the Premier acknowledged have been unpopular with many.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews is campaigning for Covid-19 booster shots to be mandated nationwide

'We got to 93 per cent (double vaccinated) because Victorians did an amazing thing,' Mr Andrews told reporters on Wednesday.

'But the government also made some difficult decisions and made it mandatory for a whole bunch of Victorians in that 93 per cent to go and protect not just themselves but everybody.

'They're not easy decisions. In fact, they've been unpopular with some.

'But that's the nature of leadership in a crisis. If you try and be popular, if you're all out there play the politics every day, then things don't go so well.

'A vaccinated economy works, getting vaccinated works.'

Daniel Andrews defended his state's vaccine mandates, describing it as a nature of leadership

Mr Andrews' strong comments sparked a mixed reaction online.

'Wow wow wow - you FORCED Victorians to do something they chose not to do,' one woman wrote.

Another added: 'Leadership would be about making the health advice transparent, about showing care and compassion, about leading with everything in mind and not just focused on one issue. The 'crisis' has exposed an appalling lack of leadership politically in Australia.'

But others supported the Premier.

'The Victorian government provided strong incentives, via a mandate for certain employment sectors. The choice was always yours champ,' one person tweeted.

Around 41 per cent of eligible Victorians aged over-18 have now their third dose. Pfizer's vaccine was approved as a booster shot for teens ages 16-17 on Thursday.
The Infinix Zero 5G has leaked, and has been confirmed to launch in India soon. The Zero 5G could rival the Oppo Reno 6.

Infinix Zero 5G has LEAKED! The first 5G smartphone from Infinix is said to launch in India soon and based on the leaks, it seems that it will be a midrange 5G smartphone. The Zero 5G could end up borrowing the design from flagship Android phones but could end up with a competitive price. And, it could boast of specifications that may worry Xiaomi and Realme. Infinix is yet to announce anything officially, other than the teasers.

The Infinix Zero 5G could end up as a rival to the recently launched Xiaomi 11i in India but could end up with a much-lower price. Based on the leaks coming from Mysmartprice, the Infinix Zero 5G could be based on the MediaTek Dimensity 900 platform. This is the same chip that powers the Oppo Reno 6. This will also bring support for 5G connectivity, and the leak suggests there will be support for 13 5G bands.

Infinix Zero 5G leaks

The leak also reveals other interesting aspects about the Zero 5G. The phone is expected to feature a 6.7-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 120Hz. A small camera cutout will house the front camera, the details of which is unknow at the moment.

A 5000mAh battery will power the Zero 5G and there will be a 33W fast charging solution present. Infinix is said to launch with Android 11 under its own XOS skin.

Lastly, the Infinix Zero 5G is also said to come with a 48MP main rear camera. It is said that this one could also offer an ultra-wide camera and a telephoto camera. However, there are no details available on these cameras yet.

Along with the specs, the leak also carries some official renders of the of Zero 5G. The phone resembles largely the Oppo Find X3 Pro, which was Oppo's 2021 flagship Android phone. The camera hump rises from the rear with a gradual slope separating the hump from the rear panel. It will be available in a glossy black colour as well as a brown colour (the latter appears to be a vegan leather material).

With the Infinix Zero 5G, the company could be looking to go upmarket this year. Homegrown brand Lava tried it last year with the Lava Agni 5G, which was its first 5G smartphone aimed at the midrange segment.
LOS ANGELES  On Thursday, February 10, Free Speech Coalition and Streamate will partner on a special webinar for adult content creators as part of its educational INSPIRE program. Life as a Sex Worker: Negotiating Content Trades and Cam Shows will explore the challenges faced by independent performers, models and creators in the process, as well as tips and best practices for a successful collaboration.

The free webinar, sponsored by Streamate and hosted by FSC Industry Relations Advocate Lotus Lain, will be a frank, in-depth conversation with successful creators including Dirty Drizzy, Tru, Inka Winter and Destiny Diaz. The panelists will address topics including financial negotiations, rights, distribution, marketing and consent.

It may seem simple, but experienced adult creators know the thorny reality of negotiating content trades and cam shows says Lotus Lain, FSCs industry relations advocate. When two independent performers work together, there are a whole host of issues that need to be addressed. Its much more complicated than people expect, and Im excited to talk about how our community is experiencing and addressing the challenges.

Life as a Sex Worker: Negotiating Content Trades and Cam Shows launches FSC INSPIREs Winter/Spring 2022 webinar series, all sponsored by Streamate. Over next several months, content creators and other sex workers will discuss challlenges and share stories. Creators can register for the webinar, and sign up for information on future sessions here.

Recordings of previous INSPIRE webinars are available at the FSC YouTube Channel.
KYODO NEWS - Feb 3, 2022 - 11:50 | World, All, Coronavirus

New Zealand will allow returning citizens to self-isolate rather than enter quarantine facilities from late February, while international tourists will be welcomed back starting in July at the latest, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Thursday as the nation looks to scale back its pandemic border restrictions.

The new quarantine rules will take effect for vaccinated New Zealanders as well as other eligible travelers coming from Australia from Feb. 27, and be applied to vaccinated citizens and visa holders returning from anywhere else across the globe two weeks later, Ardern said.

The country, which closed its borders to foreigners in early 2020 in response to the spread of the coronavirus, will allow vaccinated skilled workers and working holiday makers from abroad to enter from March 13, while up to 5,000 international students can enter from April 12.

The reopening is being staggered to allow health and border systems to adjust to a likely increase in cases of the coronavirus.

Tourists from Japan, Australia and other visa-free countries will not be allowed in until July under the current plan, but Ardern stressed this was the latest anticipated date, with a "high likelihood" it would be brought forward as the country progresses through the pandemic.

Travelers from the rest of the world will have to wait until October, however.

"Opening back up in this managed way balances inflows of travelers so people can reunite and fill our workforce shortages, while also ensuring our healthcare system can manage an increase in cases," said Ardern.

Travelers will be required to self-isolate at home for 10 days, with mandatory quarantine in state-run facilities to remain only for high-risk travelers such as those unvaccinated.

New Zealand has maintained some of the world's strictest border controls during the pandemic, in a largely successful bid to keep the virus at bay.

The population of about 5 million has seen about 17,000 cases of COVID-19, and just 53 deaths so far, well below many comparable nations.

At present, foreigners are banned from entry under the strict rules, and citizens are required to stay in state-run quarantine facilities upon returning. Citizens can either apply for an emergency allocation of a spot at the quarantine facilities, or enter a controversial lottery for the spot.

Related coverage:

Japan's daily COVID-19 cases exceed 90,000 for first time

Tonga enters nationwide lockdown after aid deliveries import virus

China to phase out COVID-19 lockdown in Xian
AMERICA NEEDS to do away with tipping at restaurants.

Pass a law and make it illegal. Get rid of gratuities entirely. Put a big sign on the front door: No tips allowed.

I dont know how we got into this tipping business anyway. Well, yes, maybe I do. Somewhere along the line, a waiter or waitress did a really bang-up job taking care of a customers food order and he wanted to reward that server.

In the beginning, waiters and waitresses were grateful for tips. Then they started expecting tips. Now they demand tips and show untold arrogance if the tip isnt as big as they feel it should be.

I once ate in a semi-fancy restaurant where the waiter all but ignored my table throughout the entire meal. Consequently, I left a small tip. The waiter informed the manager, who followed me to my car demanding a bigger tip. It was almost as if he was ready to pull a gun if I didnt come through with more money.

Waiters and waitresses are not entitled to a tip, even in a nation where everyone feels entitled.

A tip is a gratuity, a means of expressing gratitude for a job well done. These days tips are demanded, no matter how good or bad the service.

I use the terms waiter and waitress instead of server, the current most commonly used word, because not all waiters and waitresses actually serve the meal. At one restaurant I frequent, the waitress writes down the order and thats about the end of her duties. Someone from the kitchen brings out the food. If Im lucky, the waitress comes back occasionally to check on the status of my beverage.

Im supposed to reward her 20 percent of my meal cost for writing down my order? Why, she doesnt even bring me a menu; the hostess does that.

I know, these waiters and waitresses get paid an hourly wage that wouldnt keep a squirrel in hickory nuts. At last tally, it was less than $3 an hour. Thats not even $25 for an eight-hour shift.

Theres the problem. Dont let the restaurants get away with paying a pittance. Force them to pay the same hourly wage as other businesses.

The restaurants dont want that because it would cut into their profits and their cry would be, It would make the cost of a meal so high that no one could afford it!

Funny, but in most European countries, tips are not allowed, yet meals are still affordable. If it works there, it can work here.

Waiters and waitresses dont want to abandon the gratuity system, either, because they almost always make more money in tips than they would working for minimum wage or even a higher salary.

This tip business has gotten so bad that now some restaurants compute what 15, 20 and 25 percent of the meal cost would be and print it at the bottom of the bill. This is what youre supposed to give the server.

Some restaurants also promote bad service by throwing all the tips into one pot and dividing them equally among servers. This means the lazy waitress gets the same as the waitress who hustles.

I think thats called

socialism.

Yes, I know waiters and waitresses work hard and it is tough dealing with the public, but there are many other occupations that require hard work and sometimes dealing with angry customers. People in those businesses dont get tipped. They get a decent salary.

And thats what restaurants should pay their waiters and waitressesa decent salary. Pay their employees a livable wage and outlaw tips.

Customers should not have to pay twice for their meal. This system works at fast-food restaurants. You dont pay for your Quarter Pounder and then pay another 20 percent to the person that hands it to you. And McDonalds seems to have kept prices under control, even with high beef prices. It can be done.

Call me cheap if you like, but I dont want to have to pay an extra 20 percent just for someone to write down my order. Give me the pad and pencil and Ill write it down myself.

Cheap? What about the restaurants that pay employees less than $3 an hour?
ROME  Monica Vitti, the versatile movie star of Michelangelo Antonionis LAvventura and other Italian alienation films of the 1960s, and later a leading comic actress, has died. She was 90.

Her death was announced Wednesday on Twitter by a former culture minister, Walter Veltroni, who said he had been asked to communicate her death by her husband, the photographer Roberto Russo.

"Goodbye to the queen of Italian cinema,'' the current culture minister, Dario Franceschini, wrote in a statement.

Vitti had been out of the public spotlight for years, living quietly in Rome with her husband. She reportedly suffered from a form of dementia.

In her glamour days in the 1960s, she was best known for her starring roles in LAvventura, La Notte, Eclisse" ("Eclipse") and Red Desert, all films directed by Antonioni, her lover at that time. The two were constant targets of paparazzi.

LAvventura won her international attention and praise for her role as an icy cool woman drifting into a relationship with the lover of her missing girlfriend. In Red Desert, the last of the cycle, she plays a woman suffering from a deep, elusive neurosis as she struggled to deal with a transformed industrial world.

Vittis blond hair and blue eyes set her apart from classic Mediterranean screen stars such as the brown-haired Sophia Loren.

Antonioni himself paid tribute to her performance at a special screening in New Yorks Museum of Modern Art in 1999 to mark completion of a restoration project for Italian film.

The protagonist, Giuliana, goes through a profound personal crisis because of her inability to adapt, he said, in remarks read by his wife, Enrica.

After Vittis relationship with Antonioni ended, they didn't work together again until 1980. At that point, she changed focus sharply and began making comedies, working with top directors and some of Italys leading actors, including Alberto Sordi, a tragi-comic one, in films whose characters often personified Italians strengths and foibles.

While many of the films didn't gain international distribution or acclaim, her performances were greeted with success at home.

In 1970, Vitti starred with Marcello Mastroianni in Ettore Scolas romantic comedy Dramma della gelosia ("The Pizza Triangle"). In 1974, she won the equivalent of an Italian Oscar, a David di Donatello award, for best actress in Sordis Polvere di Stelle, one of five such prizes in her career.

She starred in Luis Bunuels Le Fantome de la liberte (The Phantom of Liberty) in 1974, a surrealistic treatment of middle-class hypocrisies, considered her last major film.

Her versatility distinguished her from other actresses of her period.

In a memorable scene in Amore mio aiutami (Help me, my love), she and Sordi roll in the sand trading slaps and punches. In one of her only two English-language films, she found herself in a spy spoof with Terence Stamp and Dirk Bogarde in the 1966 Modesty Blaise.

Vitti was born as Maria Luisa Ceciarelli in Rome in 1931. As a teenager, she appeared in amateur stage productions, then studied as an actor in Romes National Academy of Dramatic Arts. Her first film role was in Scolas Ridere Ridere Ridere (Laugh Laugh Laugh) in 1954. Her last was Scandalo Segreto in 1989, which she wrote, directed and starred in.

Her reclusive life led to much speculation about the state of her health. In 1988, Le Monde reported she died from an overdose of barbiturates. She was very popular in France and her fans were outraged.

Here last public appearance was in 2002 for the premiere of Notre Dame de Paris.

In 1995, the Venice Film Festival awarded her a Golden Lion award for career achievement.

Italian Premier Mario Draghi remembered Vitti as an actress of great irony and extraordinary talent, who won over generations of Italians with her spirit, bravura and beauty. She brought prestige to the Italian cinema around the globe.
Vietnam to speed up science and tech development in 2021-30

Vietnam has set a target to speed up the development of science and technology for the 2021-30 period with the establishment of modern research and development centres in both public and private sectors as a core mission objective.















Speakers at Techfest Vietnam 2021, the largest annual event for innovative start-ups in Vietnam which has finished its 7th edition last year.  VNA Photo Duong Giang

Technology and innovation play a key role in improving Vietnamese firms' productivity, product quality and competitiveness as well as the country's socio-economic development, said deputy minister of science and technology Le Xuan inh, added that policy frameworks to regulate and encourage investments in science and technology were of great importance, especially as the world entered the fourth Industrial Revolution.



inh said his ministry has started a number of programmes to aid firms in developing and adopting modern technology and lay the groundwork for Vietnam's advanced technological application as well as the development of artificial intelligence.



In order to realise these objectives, the ministry said the private sector has a large part to play in both the development and application, especially in key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, industrial production and telecommunications.



The pandemic, which hit Vietnam particularly hard in 2021, has forced domestic firms to double their digitalisation efforts and to utilise advanced technology to adapt to the new normal and extended periods of lockdown and mobility restrictions.



2021 saw the rapid development of the country's digital infrastructure and applications as a response to social distancing requirements and firms' efforts to keep operations running. Vietnam's start-up scene also saw thousands of new firms enter the playground with home-grown technology to compete on a global scale, he said.



The Government has set up centres in 13 cities and provinces to assist Vietnamese start-ups, notably with the establishment of the National Start-up Support Center, which was tasked with building a support network for start-ups across the country.



Vietnam ranked 44/132 in the Global Innovation Index in 2021 with more than 18,500 scientific and technological discoveries, a 2.5 per cent increase compared to the previous year.



Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh at said investment in Vietnamese tech start-ups hit a record high of US$1.3 billion in 2021. Vietnamese researchers and scientists from all over the world have set up a support network to nurture Vietnam's start-up ecosystem and to connect with the global start-up scene.



at urged government agencies to actively engage with Vietnamese intellectuals to find solutions to issues related to the country's socio-economic development. He also called for research institutes and universities to provide additional support for Vietnamese start-ups. The minister said it is to start a pilot programme to introduce corporate institutions for scientific research in Vietnam with the aim to better connect the business and scientific sectors.



Local governments, particularly those in remote and isolated regions of the country, must double their efforts to adopt and implement technologies and innovations to make the most out of their locality's competitive advantages.



For its part, the ministry will continue to support them in connecting with potential foreign partners, in improving product quality and safety, and in securing access to foreign markets, especially for Vietnamese agricultural products. The ministry will also support Vietnamese firms in registering and protecting their intellectual properties in foreign markets. In 2021, VIetnam successfully registered a number of brands in the Japan, EU and US markets, notably Luc Ngan lychee and Binh Thuan dragonfruit.



at advised localities to identify and invest in only a few products with which they enjoy great competitive advantages. The next step is to seek out partners from the public or private sectors, preferably ones with technological expertise and capacities, to help develop their products further to improve quality and produce added value.



Speaking at a recent conference on the implementation of science and technology in economic development, Deputy Prime Minister Vu uc am said the Government is to consolidate and redesign Vietnam's scientific institutions and centres in a near future in favour of a more streamlined and efficient system.



am said the Ministry of Science and Technology's key mission for 2022 was to ramp up cooperation with other ministries such as the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to bring innovations to production sites and to shore up its capacity to manage and support the development of science and technology.



The deputy PM said it's time for government officials to ditch their risk-averse approach for science and requires a risk-taking attitude as well as long-term investments to produce results. The ministry and other science centres must make it their highest priority to improve transparency and effectiveness to make the most out of their budget.
While world leaders have vowed to scale back the use of fossil fuels to help keep a lid on global warming, a drastic upheaval in the markets for oil, natural gas and coal could complicate the shift toward cleaner sources of energy.

Global oil prices have soared to their highest level in seven years, nearing $90 per barrel, as fears grow of a Russian invasion of Ukraine. Europe is in the grips of a severe natural gas crunch that has roiled energy markets worldwide. And global demand for coal, the dirtiest of all fossil fuels, has surged to record highs as economies bounce back from pandemic lows.

Theres a broader lesson here, energy experts said. Even as governments and businesses invest in low-carbon energy sources like wind and solar power, the world will remain deeply reliant on fossil fuels for years to come. Unless that transition is carefully managed, many countries could face volatile energy prices and other disruptions that, in turn, threaten to undermine support for policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Also Read | Oil prices ease as OPEC+ sticks to output plans

Here are four big trends to watch.

Higher oil prices, more drilling?

After the coronavirus pandemic struck in 2020, global investment in oil and gas projects declined by 30% and has been slow to recover. But global demand for oil has snapped back faster and is projected to reach records this year, as economies rebound. Supplies have struggled to keep up.

On top of that, recent geopolitical turmoil  including supply disruptions in Kazakhstan and fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine  have lifted oil prices to their highest levels since 2014.

Although Western oil companies have been drilling fewer wells since the pandemic began, partly held back by investors wary of unprofitable projects, high prices could shift that calculus. On Tuesday, Exxon Mobil announced it would increase spending on new oil wells and other projects by up to 45% this year after reporting $23 billion in profits for 2021, its best result in seven years.

Also Read | Top oil producers eye modest output boost as prices surge

Carbon Tracker, a London-based think tank, cautioned last week that higher oil prices may lead energy companies to invest billions in new drilling projects that could undermine international efforts to fight climate change.

In the United States, rising gasoline prices  currently averaging $3.40 per gallon, a dollar higher than a year ago  have been a drag on the approval ratings of President Joe Biden, who is struggling to persuade Congress to pass climate policies aimed at reducing fossil-fuel emissions. At the same time, the Biden administration has defended moves to issue new oil and gas permits on public lands, although those efforts have been slowed by federal courts.

But high oil prices arent always bad news for clean energy. They can also depress oil demand by, for example, pushing people to buy electric vehicles that dont require gasoline. Last year, electric cars made up 20% of all new sales in Europe and 15% of new sales in China, according to BloombergNEF, a research group.

A gas shortage roils Europe

In recent months, the world has struggled with spiking prices for natural gas, a fuel used in both power plants and home heating, that has caused ripple effects across the globe. Utility bills have soared from Italy to South Korea, while fertilizer plants in Britain and Germany have had to curtail operations. (Natural gas is a key ingredient in nitrogen-based fertilizer).

Also Read | Global coal prices surge as Ukraine tensions worsen supply woes

The causes of the gas crunch are numerous: Global demand has rebounded faster than supply since the pandemic began; lower output from hydropower dams in China and Brazil have led to a surge of gas imports; a cold snap last spring across Europe increased demand and reduced gas inventories.

The crisis is particularly acute in Europe, where natural gas prices are now five times as high as they were a year ago. Officials are racing to procure new shipments of gas from overseas in case Russia, which provides one-third of Europes natural gas, curtails supplies in the event of a conflict over Ukraine.

There are also signs the gas crunch could undermine unity within the European Union over policies to fight climate change.

Officials are currently debating a sweeping new set of clean-energy measures aimed at cutting emissions by 2030. Some nations, like Spain, have called for a faster shift away from fossil fuels to reduce Europes exposure to gas markets. But others, like Poland, have urged a delay in stricter climate action amid the crisis.

And theres the possibility that skyrocketing energy prices could bolster unrest akin to the Yellow Vests protests in 2018, which forced the French government to backtrack on plans to increase fuel taxes as a way to reduce emissions.

Also Read  Ukraine risks prompt India to look elsewhere for sunflower oil

Coal reaches record highs

Across the globe, rising natural gas prices have provided a boost to coal, which typically produces twice as much carbon dioxide as gas when burned for electricity, driving up planet-warming emissions.

Global coal consumption reached a record in 2021 and was on track to rise further in 2022, the International Energy Agency recently said. That was partly because electricity demand is surging in countries like China and India, and investment in renewable energy has not kept pace. But high natural gas prices have also spurred many electric utilities to turn to coal.

The United States is one example. Over the past decade, as advances in fracking led to a boom in domestic gas production, the country has become one of the worlds largest exporters of liquefied natural gas.

Those exports have become a key source of global supply during the latest crisis. But they have also boosted natural gas prices at home, which in turn means that some utilities are finding it economical to run their coal plants more often. Last year, U.S. coal power emissions increased 17% after years of falling steadily, putting the country further off course from reaching its climate goals.

Also Read  Badly hit by high costs, Indian metal mills seek to cut coal use

It really illustrates how much weve depended on cheap natural gas prices to keep coal in decline, said Kate Larsen, a partner at the Rhodium Group, a research firm. Overall, we still expect coal to decline further in the years ahead, but unless there are new policies put in place to clean up the power sector, the coal industry could see a bit of a lifeline if there are big swings in the gas market.

A Bumpy Transition

In a recent essay, Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency, argued that climate change policies were not to blame for the current global energy crisis. But, he warned, that does not mean that the road to net-zero emissions will be smooth.

One problem, he said, is that while many countries have cut back on investments in fossil fuels like oil and gas in recent years, energy demand is still rising, and nations have not spent enough on cleaner sources like wind, solar or nuclear power to fill the gap. If the world wants to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels  a goal many leaders have endorsed to avoid the worst consequences of climate change  global investment in clean energy would need to triple from current levels by 2030.

Birol also noted that, because many countries will remain reliant on fossil fuels for years to come, they will need to take steps to prepare for market disruptions, such as improved gas storage in Europe or energy efficiency measures that can blunt the damage from rising prices. This needs to happen quickly, he wrote, or global energy markets will face a turbulent and volatile period ahead.

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A former Navy captain pleaded guilty on Wednesday to accepting nearly $68,000 in bribes from a foreign defense contractor to benefit his ship husbanding company.

Donald Hornbeck, 61, admitted to receiving at least $67,830 in bribes in the form of extravagant dinners, hotels, parties and prostitutes from foreign defense contractor Leonard Francis, according to a statement from the U.S. attorney's office.

In exchange for the bribes, Hornbeck said he tried to send Navy ships to ports that were serviced by Glenn Defense Marine Asia, a Singapore-based ship husbanding company owned and run by Francis.

Hornbeck also admitted to sharing confidential Navy information with Francis to help his company and indoctrinating new members of the Navy to assist Francis.

"While scores of Navy officials were partying with Leonard Francis, a massive breach of national security was in full swing," U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman said in a statement.

"Today another participant has admitted that he lost his way, allowing greed to replace honor and duty as the driving force in his life. This is a day of reckoning for a captain who traded his honor and integrity for material pleasures," he added.

Hornbeck pleaded guilty to bribery of a public official, which comes with a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. His sentencing is scheduled for September.

Eight other members of the U.S. Navy's Seventh Fleet were indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2017 on allegations of plotting with Francis and accepting bribes, according to the U.S. attorney's office. Hornbeck is the fourth of that group of defendants to plead guilty.

In all, thirty-four U.S. Navy officials and defense contractors have been the target of federal criminal charges in connection to the so-called Fat Leonard scandal, according to the U.S. attorney's office. Glenn Defense Marine Asia has also been charged.

Twenty-nine defendants have pleaded guilty thus far - admitting to accepting millions of dollars in various bribes from Francis in exchange for helping his company "win and maintain contracts and overbill the Navy by over $35 million," according to the U.S. attorney's office.
The Detroit Red Wings didn't pull off what they wanted and went into their break on a losing note.

For the second time in a month they came up short against the Los Angeles Kings, who unleashed a barrage against goalie Alex Nedeljkovic on Wednesday at Little Caesars Arena to come away with a 5-3 victory.

The Wings (20-21-6) were outshot, 45-25.

"We werent very good the first two periods," veteran defenseman Marc Staal said. "We were slow and getting beat on one-on-ones and didnt really have much of a pushback. That was kind of it. We had some chances in the third, we tied it up, but Ned played a pretty outstanding game to keep it as close as it was in the first two."

Tyler Bertuzzi tied the game midway through the third period when he got a piece of Gustav Lindstrom's shot from the point. Dylan Larkin picked up his 21st assist on the play. But the momentum didn't last long: Phillip Danault scored his second of the game by driving the net, scoring on the Kings' 40th shot. Viktor Arvidsson scored into an empty net with 1:27 to play. Joe Veleno scored his first goal in 18 games with 47 seconds to go, and Adrian Kempe added another empty net goal with 10 seconds to go.

Detroit Red Wings goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic (39) deflects a Los Angeles Kings center Trevor Moore (12) shot in the first period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022, in Detroit.

LEARNING LESSONS: How pain of Red Wings losses is fueling young team's improvement

JORDAN RULES: Why Red Wings' Oesterle, an ideal defenseman, keeps pinching himself

WINGS MAILBAG: What Steve Yzerman sees in coach Jeff Blashill

"I didnt think our battle level was nearly good enough," coach Jeff Blashill said. "They were harder on sticks, they were stopping on pucks better than us. We had too many guys that had their 'B' game  'C' game, maybe  and we cant afford that."

The Wings wanted to enter the All-Star break not only feeling good, but having redeemed their Jan. 8 performance in L.A., when they were outshot 27-2 in the first period en route to a 4-0 loss. The Wings scored first this time, with Michael Rasmussen netting his fifth of the season in the first period, but the shots were 11-3 Kings at the time, and it got worse in the second period. Danault drove to the net and flipped a rebound in off Nedeljkovic's shoulder at 12:47, and Arthur Kaliyev redirected Austin Strand's shot from the blue line at 18:11. The Kings dominated the second period, turning a 22-8 edge in shots into a 2-1 lead.

Story continues

Zadina gets going

Filip Zadina picked up his third point in four games, adding to the goal he scored Jan. 28 at Pittsburgh and his assist Monday against Anaheim. Zadina assisted on Rasmussens goal, first by backchecking Sean Durzi to minimize a scoring chance on Nedeljkovic. With the play at the other end of the ice, Zadina caught the puck as it ping-ponged near the net and fired a shot that Rasmussen smacked behind Jonathan Quick. Considering how much Zadina struggled in the first half (11 points, minus-16), its encouraging to see him be more effective.

MIDSEASON GRADES: Steve Yzerman's plan spawns multiple As

Smith gets up

Gemel Smith made his first appearance since being claimed off waivers Jan. 26 and joining the Wings following a conditioning stint in the minors. Gemel replaced his brother, Givani, in the lineup. Smith centered the fourth line between Joe Veleno and Sam Gagner. Smith inadvertently showed how tough he is right away. He had his head turned when Brendan Lemieux (son of late-1990s Wings villain Claude Lemieux) rammed into him, and he spun around as he fell. Smith got right back up and resumed playing. Smith then bumped Lemieux while skating to the bench in the third period, setting off a fight that ended with Lemieux on the ice. Smith earned an assist on Veleno's goal. "You saw hes a high-energy player, good on the forecheck, physical," Staal said of Smith. "Not afraid to drop them. It was a good first one for him."

BROTHERLY LOVE: How Gemel Smith found out about joining brother, Givani Smith, with Red Wings

Athanasiou gets back

Wednesday's game marked the first return to LCA for former Wings draft pick Andreas Athanasiou (No. 110 overall, 2012) since general manager Steve Yzerman traded Athanasiou at the 2020 deadline. Yzerman sent Athanasiou to the Edmonton Oilers for Gagner and second-round picks in 2020 and 2021. After the season, the Oilers declined to offer Athanasiou a qualifying contract, and he signed as a free agent with the Kings. Athanasiou was injured when the Wings visited California in early January. He returned Jan. 27 and scored his fourth goal in 14 games. On Wednesday, he logged 14:25 of ice time and finished with a minus-2 rating.

Contact Helene St. James at hstjames@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @helenestjames. Read more on the Detroit Red Wings and sign up for our Red Wings newsletter. Her book, The Big 50: The Detroit Red Wings is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Triumph Books. Personalized copies available via her e-mail.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Red Wings allow barrage of shots by L.A. Kings in 5-3 loss
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Skoda Kodiaq vs VW Tiguan vs Toyota Fortuner vs MG Gloster vs others



Skoda Kodiaq



What you'll like:



 The ultimate value luxury SUV! Classy styling, solid build & superb quality

 Cabin offers space, practicality and lots of intelligent features

 Impressive 2.0L turbo-petrol is mated to a quick 7-speed DSG automatic

 Cushy ride quality in Comfort mode (L&K variant)

 Sorted handling & road manners in Sport mode. Adjustable suspension is a USP of the L&K

 3rd-row of seats is an advantage over some 5-seater competitors

 Massive boot with 3rd seat row down. Boot is useable even with the 3rd seat row up

 Impressive kit (12-speaker Canton ICE, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, auto parking...)

 AWD available to get you out of tricky situations. Tourers will love it

 5-star safety rating & equipment (9 airbags + a host of electronic aids)



What you won't:



 Workhorse 2.0L turbo-diesel is no longer available. Heavy users will miss its low running costs

 Single digit fuel economy of the turbo-petrol AT in the city. Drops drastically if you drive aggressively

 Its sibling, the

 Expensive! Worse still, Skoda increased the Kodiaqs pricing within days of the launch

 Cramped 3rd row of seats is strictly for small children. A 5+2 SUV, not a 7-seater

 Styling does look Estate-ish from some angles. Doesn't have that much street cred or presence

 We feel that the Sportline variant shouldve been offered with the DCC & other L&K features

 Skodas ill-famed dealership network & after-sales horror stories

 Skodas patchy long-term reliability track record (including, but not limited to, the DSG)

 Silly feature deletions from older Kodiaq (rear door sills, 1 umbrella, 1 blanket, chrome tip on power window switches, removeable torch in the boot, red warning lights on the front doors )



Review Link



Volkswagen Tiguan



Review Link



Review Link - The 2021 Facelift



Toyota Fortuner



What you'll like:



 Fantastic 2.8L diesel engine has gotten even better. More power, more responsive!

 Smooth and competent 6-speed automatic gearbox

 Contemporary styling & imposing street presence

 Tough build. Toyota body-on-frame UVs are known to have very long lives (400,000+ km is realistic)

 Smooth petrol also available, if you want more refinement and / or are from Delhi-NCR

 Features such as Quad-LED headlamps, powered tailgate, wireless smartphone charging, ventilated seats & more

 Impressive offroad capability (by big SUV standards) is superior to its direct competitors

 Top-notch safety kit. 7 airbags, ESP, TC, hill assist, ISOFIX & 3-point seatbelts for all

 Outstanding long term reliability. And you get great resale value as well

 Toyota's excellent after-sales quality, fuss-free ownership experiences, low service costs & up to 7 years of extended warranty coverage



What you won't:



 The already-expensive Fortuner has gotten even more expensive! Top variant costs over 51-lakhs OTR

 Legender variant has many limitations (no petrol, no colour options, no MT)

 Firm & bumpy ride quality. Bad roads in the city are prominently felt inside

 Heavy steering at low speeds will bother you

 Lots of body roll. Go easy on the curves

 Missing sunroof, lumbar adjustment, auto-wipers, TPMS, adaptive parking guidelines etc.

 6-speaker sound system is terrible for a 40-lakh rupee car!

 Cost-cutting evident in a couple of areas; some interior plastics, ICE audio quality, camera display

 Fortuner's petrol variant is a guzzler. We've seen merely 6  7 kmpl on the AT

 No longer a full-time 4x4 like the 1st-gen car. Also, 4x4 carries a Rs. 3 lakh OTR premium



Review Link



Review Link - The 2021 Legender & Facelift



MG Gloster



What you'll like:



 Huge & imposing size! Bigger than even the likes of the Fortuner

 Splendid long-distance mile muncher. The Gloster is built for expressway cruising. Just set the adaptive cruise control and let the Gloster waft along

 ADAS safety features such as autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitor and lane change assist are cool & work well

 Suspension is tuned for comfort. Gloster owners will enjoy its ride quality

 Spacious cabin with captain seats at the back and a usable third row too!

 Interior ambience is nicer vs the competitors which are utilitarian in comparison

 Loaded with features - panoramic sunroof, 12.3" touchscreen ICE, driver seat with massage function, 360 degree camera, three zone climate control, PM 2.5 air filter etc.

 343 liter boot even with the 3rd-row seat being used



What you won't:



 Engine and gearbox tuning are shockingly terrible inside town. Turbo lag and the gearbox's reluctance to downshift make things awful in city traffic

 Massive size can be a handicap in urban India. Quite cumbersome in tight areas

 While the interior looks premium, you know it is not as well-built as a Toyota or Ford

 Top-end Savvy variant is optimistically priced at par with the well-established Fortuner

 4,000 rpm redline is too early. Engine has a very narrow powerband

 Urban fuel economy is mediocre due to the power & fat kerb weight

 Twin-turbo diesel, 8-speed AT & gizmos bring a lot of complexity. Long-term reliability is unknown (unlike the Fortuner)



Review Link



Kia Carnival



What you'll like:



 A truly luxurious MPV thats also high on practicality

 Top quality, spacious & comfortable interiors. 3rd-row is usable for adults too

 Fantastic engine & gearbox combination! 2.2L diesel & 8-speed AT impress

 Comfy ride quality & neutral road manners

 Available in 7, 8 and 9-seater configurations

 540L boot space with all three rows up and 1,624L with the third row down

 Impressive kit (2 sunroofs, premium Harman Kardon sound system, electric rear doors & more)

 5-star safety rating. Kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, HSA, CBC etc.



What you won't:



 Massive size can make it cumbersome in the city, while parking & in narrow lanes

 Ordinary urban fuel economy due to the 2.2 ton weight, 197 BHP engine & AT gearbox

 Underbody does scrape on bad roads & large speed bumps, especially with a full load

 Top Limousine variant isn't sold as an 8-seater & its 3rd row access is difficult

 Steering is a level too firm at parking speeds & a level too light at 120 km/h

 Some misses such as paddle shifters, a skinny spare tyre, no auto-wipers or front camera...

 Model is now 7 years old in the international market; next-gen Carnival is being tested

 Stylish 4x4 SUVs like the Fortuner / Kodiaq can be had at the same price



Review Link



Citroen C5 Aircross



What you'll like:



 A superbly engineered & properly premium crossover

 Very stylish exteriors & interiors! We love the design. It's matched to solid build quality

 Good quality cabin with comfortable seats, lots of storage & fantastic insulation

 2.0L diesel engine is quick, efficient & extremely refined

 Smooth 8-speed AT gearbox impresses

 Excellent ride comfort and mature road manners. High speed behaviour is sorted too

 Large, well-shaped 580 liter boot gobbles up holiday / airport luggage

 Loaded to the gills with features such as a panoramic sunroof, handsfree tailgate opening, customisable instrument cluster, double laminated front windows, terrain modes...

 4-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test. 3-point seatbelts for all five occupants, 6 airbags, blind spot monitoring system, ESP, hill hold, hill descent control and more



What you won't:



 Rear legroom is strictly adequate. Two 510" adults can sit behind each other, but not two 6-footers

 No turbo-petrol engine (big miss), no AWD for tourers & no manual gearbox for MT fans

 Not really sporty to drive. Cars like the Compass are more fun

 Missing some features we expect today (connected car tech, wireless charging, ventilated seats, 360-degree camera, subwoofer )

 The bolstering of the 3 individual rear seats is suitable for slim passengers, not heavier ones

 Audio sound quality is alright, but nothing special as youd expect in a premium car

 Many competing crossovers & SUVs offer a 3rd-row of seats, which the C5 Aircross doesn't have

 The LHD orientation of many controls (gear shifter, e-brake, bonnet release, engine start button)

 Long-term reliability & after-sales service quality are big unknowns



Review Link  The ultimate value luxury SUV! Classy styling, solid build & superb quality Cabin offers space, practicality and lots of intelligent features Impressive 2.0L turbo-petrol is mated to a quick 7-speed DSG automatic Cushy ride quality in Comfort mode (L&K variant) Sorted handling & road manners in Sport mode. Adjustable suspension is a USP of the L&K 3rd-row of seats is an advantage over some 5-seater competitors Massive boot with 3rd seat row down. Boot is useable even with the 3rd seat row up Impressive kit (12-speaker Canton ICE, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, auto parking...) AWD available to get you out of tricky situations. Tourers will love it 5-star safety rating & equipment (9 airbags + a host of electronic aids) Workhorse 2.0L turbo-diesel is no longer available. Heavy users will miss its low running costs Single digit fuel economy of the turbo-petrol AT in the city. Drops drastically if you drive aggressively Its sibling, the VW Tiguan , is priced a couple of lakhs cheaper Expensive! Worse still, Skoda increased the Kodiaqs pricing within days of the launch Cramped 3rd row of seats is strictly for small children. A 5+2 SUV, not a 7-seater Styling does lookfrom some angles. Doesn't have that much street cred or presence We feel that the Sportline variant shouldve been offered with the DCC & other L&K features Skodas ill-famed dealership network & after-sales horror stories Skodas patchy long-term reliability track record ( Silly feature deletions from older Kodiaq (rear door sills, 1 umbrella, 1 blanket, chrome tip on power window switches, removeable torch in the boot, red warning lights on the front doors ) Fantastic 2.8L diesel engine has gotten even better. More power, more responsive! Smooth and competent 6-speed automatic gearbox Contemporary styling & imposing street presence Tough build. Toyota body-on-frame UVs are known to have very long lives (400,000+ km is realistic) Smooth petrol also available, if you want more refinement and / or are from Delhi-NCR Features such as Quad-LED headlamps, powered tailgate, wireless smartphone charging, ventilated seats & more Impressive offroad capability () is superior to its direct competitors Top-notch safety kit. 7 airbags, ESP, TC, hill assist, ISOFIX & 3-point seatbelts for all Outstanding long term reliability. And you get great resale value as well Toyota's excellent after-sales quality, fuss-free ownership experiences, low service costs & up to 7 years of extended warranty coverage The already-expensive Fortuner has gotten even more expensive! Top variant costs over 51-lakhs OTR Legender variant has many limitations (no petrol, no colour options, no MT) Firm & bumpy ride quality. Bad roads in the city are prominently felt inside Heavy steering at low speeds will bother you Lots of body roll. Go easy on the curves Missing sunroof, lumbar adjustment, auto-wipers, TPMS, adaptive parking guidelines etc. 6-speaker sound system is terrible for a 40-lakh rupee car! Cost-cutting evident in a couple of areas; some interior plastics, ICE audio quality, camera display Fortuner's petrol variant is a guzzler. We've seen merely 6  7 kmpl on the AT No longer a full-time 4x4 like the 1st-gen car. Also, 4x4 carries a Rs. 3 lakh OTR premium Huge & imposing size! Bigger than even the likes of the Fortuner Splendid long-distance mile muncher. The Gloster is built for expressway cruising. Just set the adaptive cruise control and let the Gloster waft along ADAS safety features such as autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitor and lane change assist are cool & work well Suspension is tuned for comfort. Gloster owners will enjoy its ride quality Spacious cabin with captain seats at the back and a usable third row too! Interior ambience is nicer vs the competitors which are utilitarian in comparison Loaded with features - panoramic sunroof, 12.3" touchscreen ICE, driver seat with massage function, 360 degree camera, three zone climate control, PM 2.5 air filter etc. 343 liter boot even with the 3rd-row seat being used Engine and gearbox tuning are shockingly terrible inside town. Turbo lag and the gearbox's reluctance to downshift make things awful in city traffic Massive size can be a handicap in urban India. Quite cumbersome in tight areas While the interior looks premium, you know it is not as well-built as a Toyota or Ford Top-end Savvy variant is optimistically priced at par with the well-established Fortuner 4,000 rpm redline is too early. Engine has a very narrow powerband Urban fuel economy is mediocre due to the power & fat kerb weight Twin-turbo diesel, 8-speed AT & gizmos bring a lot of complexity. Long-term reliability is unknown (unlike the Fortuner) A truly luxurious MPV thats also high on practicality Top quality, spacious & comfortable interiors. 3rd-row is usable for adults too Fantastic engine & gearbox combination! 2.2L diesel & 8-speed AT impress Comfy ride quality & neutral road manners Available in 7, 8 and 9-seater configurations 540L boot space with all three rows up and 1,624L with the third row down Impressive kit ( 5-star safety rating. Kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, HSA, CBC etc. Massive size can make it cumbersome in the city, while parking & in narrow lanes Ordinary urban fuel economy due to the 2.2 ton weight, 197 BHP engine & AT gearbox Underbody does scrape on bad roads & large speed bumps, especially with a full load Topvariant isn't sold as an 8-seater & its 3rd row access is difficult Steering is a level too firm at parking speeds & a level too light at 120 km/h Some misses such as paddle shifters, a skinny spare tyre, no auto-wipers or front camera... Model is now 7 years old in the international market; next-gen Carnival is being tested Stylish 4x4 SUVs like the Fortuner / Kodiaq can be had at the same price A superbly engineered & properly premium crossover Very stylish exteriors & interiors! We love the design. It's matched to solid build quality Good quality cabin with comfortable seats, lots of storage & fantastic insulation 2.0L diesel engine is quick, efficient & Smooth 8-speed AT gearbox impresses Excellent ride comfort and mature road manners. High speed behaviour is sorted too Large, well-shaped 580 liter boot gobbles up holiday / airport luggage Loaded to the gills with features such as a panoramic sunroof, handsfree tailgate opening, customisable instrument cluster, double laminated front windows, terrain modes... 4-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test. 3-point seatbelts for all five occupants, 6 airbags, blind spot monitoring system, ESP, hill hold, hill descent control and more Rear legroom is strictly adequate. Two 510" adults can sit behind each other, but not two 6-footers No turbo-petrol engine (big miss), no AWD for tourers & no manual gearbox for MT fans Not really sporty to drive. Cars like the Compass are more fun Missing some features we expect today ( The bolstering of the 3 individual rear seats is suitable for slim passengers, not heavier ones Audio sound quality is alright, but nothing special as youd expect in a premium car Many competing crossovers & SUVs offer a 3rd-row of seats, which the C5 Aircross doesn't have The LHD orientation of many controls (gear shifter, e-brake, bonnet release, engine start button) Long-term reliability & after-sales service quality are big unknowns Last edited by Aditya : 5th February 2022 at 07:10 .
Permits have been filed for a five-story mixed-use building at 263 Prospect Avenue, site of the former Grand Prospect Hall reception hall in Greenwood Heights, Brooklyn. Located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, the lot is one block from of the Prospect Avenue subway station, serviced by the R train. George Rigas is listed as the owner behind the applications. The reception hall sold for $22.5 million to Gowanus Cubes, an LLC operated by Angelo Rigas.

The proposed 50-foot-tall development will yield 140,420 square feet designated for residential space. The building will have 147 residences, most likely condos based on the average unit scope of 955 square feet. The masonry-based structure will also have a cellar, a 30-foot-long rear yard, and 180 enclosed parking spaces.

Hill West Architects is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits were filed last year. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

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A Texas woman returned to her roots on Wednesday, and did so in impressive fashion as Jamie Olsen, a Hot Springs native, recorded the fastest time in Wednesday mornings opening round of barrel racing at Summit Arena.

A latecomer to the professional ranks, a rookie at age 36, Olsens 13.22-second spin through the barrels aboard JoJo, a six-year-old filly, topped the 13.29-second run of two-time Nationals Finals Rodeo qualifier Jessie Telford. Abby Phillips (Marshall, TX) and Nikki Hansen (Dickinson, ND) shared third spot after the opening round (13.34).

I didnt have a lot of expectations. I just went in there and was hoping to do my best, Olsen said. I thought the ground was great, and my horse handled the small pen really well so I liked the setup and my horse, obviously liked it, too. Im just happy to be here and happy to do it for sure.

Olsens trip from Hot Springs to a potential high finish a few miles up the road in Rodeo Rapid City has come about in roundabout fashion.

I grew up in Hot Springs, said Olsen who has a nursing degree (and a masters as well) and is currently, a nurse practitioner. My mom was a veterinarian there. Then, my husband and I moved to Dupree and ranched with his parents. And then we just got tired of the snow, and he said I know where there is a place where it doesnt snow a lot, so we went to Texas about ten years ago.

In addition to pursuing advanced degrees while in the heart of rodeo (Brock, Texas), Olsen continued to dabble in barrel racing. Eventually the dabble turned into a further commitment.

Ive never had my rookie card, and I just decided it wasnt worth waiting any longer and to go for it when my horse was so nice, Olsen said. Ive been pretty much traveling around Texas and Louisiana so far and doing fairly well. Mainly at the small stuff since I havent been able to get into the bigger rodeos. So, Ive been trying to hit as many as I can and get enough money to qualify for the big ones.

A big paycheck in Rapid city would be a big step toward making that happen.

A couple of other South Dakotans, both with impressive WPRA and NFR credentials, were in the Wednesday morning slack as well.

Buffalos Jessica Routier, a four-time NFR qualifier had the fifth quickest time of the day (13.37), an effort Routier admitted was made in a somewhat conservative manner.

Weve hit a couple barrels this winter so I was really careful not to hit them. And thats why we might have been a little wide on barrels, but Im happy with the run, said Routier, a Buffalo area rancher with husband Riley and their five children.

With extensive family happenings, the decision toward making a full-time commitment in search of a fifth consecutive trip to the NFR remains up in the air.

We went to Denver and made the progressive round but didnt win any money there and made a little money in Fort Worth so we will do the same as in the past, Routier said. Take it week by week and see how its going. And, if we can make it work, we will make it work.

Lisa Lockhart, an Oelrichs, South Dakota woman who has made the NFR thing work for 14 consecutive seasons, placed seventh in the round with a 13.41-second time.

Despite a placement perhaps lower than wished, Lockhart indicated satisfaction with the run aboard Levee, a upcoming six-year-old, that Lockhart is slowly working into her barrel racing rotation.

We will take it though there is always room for improvement. We missed our first barrel a little bit and crowded the second one, but we turned all three barrels and left them all standing, Lockhart said with a grin.

Another Louie perhaps (an award-winning gelding that first carried Lockhart to the NFR)?

Levee is new to the rodeo scene, and we are getting accustomed to each other, Lockhart said. And this is so early on, we have no idea whether he will be anything close to be good enough or not so we will just see what happens.

Rodeo Rapid City serves up a double dose of PRCA rodeo action on Thursday. Team roping slack is slated for 8:30 a.m. (free admission), and chutes open on the first evening performance of PRCA rodeo at 7:30 p.m. Freestyle bullfighting follow the rodeo action.
We have developed this new event in response to the extraordinary times we find ourselves in. We believe that now is the time to start thinking beyond our immediate challenges to build sustainable organisations that are fit for the future.



The world has changed beyond measure. The global economy is rebuilding and reshaping in response to the colossal shock of the Covid-19 pandemic. The world appears to be losing the war against climate change and social and humanitarian crises are unfolding and intensifying across the globe. There is a growing awareness that organisations have a personal accountability to consider their social and environmental footprint and to behave responsibly. But what does this really look like? Our agenda has been put together with these complex issues in mind, with the aim of creating a space where challenges, progress and ideas can be shared openly.

From navigating the complex world of responsible investment, through to the business case for championing equality and diversity, our broad range of speakers will consider the myriad of ethical challenges facing todays leaders. We also consider what the charity sector might learn from the corporate sectors adoption of ESG values and reporting structures, and how we might tap the hidden potential of civil society to help create a better world.

We hope you will join us for what promises to be an inspiring, practical and thought-leading conference.
The Rapid City Police Department is one step closer to its southwest precinct at the corner of Sheridan Lake Road and Catron Boulevard.

The Rapid City Legal and Finance Committee approved by a 3-0 vote a $1,655,000 purchase agreement and a letter of intent to enter into a lease agreement for the Security First Bank location at its Wednesday meeting. Council members Darla Drew and Ritchie Nordstrom were absent.

Assistant Police Chief Scott Sitts said the location will help reduce response times for southwest Rapid City. He said response times now could be around 15 minutes.

Seconds and minutes matter, especially for medical calls that we respond a lot to, someone trying to get into a residence, he said. We respond to a lot of critical incidents and the faster we get there, the better it is for our community members and citizens.

The Rapid City Council voted to designate the $1,655,000 at its Oct. 18 meeting for the purchase. Police Chief Don Hedrick proposed the precinct in May during a meeting discussing how the city should spend $20 million in surplus revenue.

Sitts said its a perfect spot to reach the west and southern areas of the city. He said Rapid City is capped in the north for growth but has seen development down south.

He said development and expansion out east has placed needs on the departments radar. He said the response time eastward is within that of north, south and downtown.

For response time-wise, its not our biggest need yet, but we are aware the east side of town is growing and thats something we definitely have to look at in the future, Sitts said.

City Attorney Carla Cushman said the city is leasing the building back to the bank while it gets its new facility built on Catron Boulevard and Mount Rushmore Road. Cushman said the lease would be for a short period of time. A public hearing will be held Feb. 21 during a Rapid City Council meeting to consider the lease, according to the resolution of intent.

The committee also approved a request to apply for two federal Assistance to Firefighters grants for the Rapid City Fire Department. One grant is for eight new power cots and power load systems for ambulances for $368,111.12. Federal resources would pay $334,646 and the department would match with $33,464.

The other is a $70,000 grant to help pay for a one ton 4x4 crew cab vehicle to help tow equipment. Federal resources would provide $63,636 and the fire department would match with $6,363.

Fire Chief Jason Culberson said the department applied for the vehicle grant last year and was denied, but this is the first year requesting the power cots. He said the power system would be safer and reduce the chance of injury for crew members.

He said he foresees the department applying for more grants.

It allows us opportunities to get some equipment that normally we wouldnt have been able to afford here, he said.

Culberson said the community is growing quickly and they have many of the same needs as the police department. He said the department is working under a staffing grant that provided six employees, which they would likely apply for again in two years.

We need equipment, we need stations, we need people. Youll hear me talk about that a few times over the course of the next few years, he said.

The Rapid City Council will consider the items from Wednesdays meeting at its Feb. 7 meeting.
LOMBARD - David and Sondra Zorn spent nearly every minute together during the 64 years they were married.

Theyd spend days together in the home they shared with their children, listening to gospel music or watching Jeopardy.

Ever since they met at a South Side churchs youth group, then married at ages 18 and 24, the couple had been inseparable. They had lived in the same home in Lombard since 1962.

And so their children always thought that when they passed away, they would do that together, too.

But never did anyone imagine it would be so very close.

The Zorns died within days of each other after sharing a room at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, following hospitalizations with COVID-19. The staff, and their family, worked to place them in the same room, where their hands could rest together and their children could know they felt the comfort of being near.

We always said they would probably pass away together, because they were so close, but we didnt know this close, said Deanna Wilkins, their daughter.

Wilkins described her parents as people who loved God and loved their family, spending time as a young family with growing children going on vacations and welcoming foster children. They loved to collect Coca Cola memorabilia, even going to conventions for collectors. Later in life, with 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, they spent summer weekends at a lake house in Michigan, soaking up the water. Thanksgivings were spent around fire pits there.

David Zorn sold supplies for laundry and dry cleaning, and Sondra Zorn stayed at home and ran a day care until the kids were older, later working as a bookkeeper. Throughout the years, the family remained close.

Even in the ups and downs, you just stick together, Wilkins said.

Even in their 80s, they were able to live in their Lombard home, where two children also lived with them.

That was until October, when Sondra Zorn had a stroke and was hospitalized. Complications from the stroke kept her in a hospital and later in rehab. But she kept up her will.

She had a lot of ups and downs, Wilkins said. She kept on wanting to fight. We would ask her, and she kept on wanting to fight.

Meanwhile, David Zorn, who had dementia, was at home without her, asking his children, Wheres Ma?

In January, Sondra Zorn was transferred to Good Samaritan after she was diagnosed with COVID-19 and was having trouble breathing.

Throughout recent months, her children were prepared that it might be time.

But what surprised them was suddenly facing their fathers potential death, too.

We expected my mom, but we didnt expect my dad, Wilkins said.

David Zorn was hospitalized in January after testing positive for COVID-19.

When Advocate patient relations specialist Johnny Gillespie realized that they would both be there, he knew they should share a room. Years ago, the hospital had moved away from shared rooms to single rooms. This time, it would be the opposite.

Having talked to Wilkins before, when her mom was hospitalized, he had leaned down to whisper in Sondra Zorns ear that he was in constant touch with her daughter, and let her know by touching her hand that someone was there.

And he knew the spouses were not used to being apart. There were these moments where her dad was asking about her mom because they werent together, and that was something that really grips at the heartstrings, Gillespie said.

He asked supervisors, who approved the idea, and they moved their two beds into a room large enough to comfortably hold two, and pushed the beds close enough so their hands could touch.

For what turned out to be their final day alive together, they laid beside each other.

When Wilkins visited, she could tell being near her father was calming her mother.

I knew my mom knew, Wilkins said. You could see her body relax.

Wilkins would play gospel music they loved, like the Blackwood Brothers. Her fathers favorite song was What A Beautiful Day (For The Lord To Come Again).

She put together two photos of her parents holding hands, a black-and-white photo from their wedding day, the brides hand placed on top of her grooms, showing their new rings. Next to it, from January, a photo with hands covered with hospital tubes and arms in hospital gowns, together.

Sondra Zorn died Jan. 5, at age 83. Days later, her husband died Jan. 9 at age 89.

Once my mom passed, he just was done, Wilkins said.

Erin Stafford, an Advocate nurse who has cared for COVID-19 patients including the Zorns, said the moment was one shell remember as a time she was able to help during a pandemic in which she often felt helpless during patients final moments, at times only able to offer FaceTime calls.

The Zorns family did not want to discuss the couples vaccination status.

They were able to be together, and not every husband and wife have that opportunity, especially in this climate and pandemic, Stafford said. Its one of the moments that I will cherish.

Wilkins said the family takes comfort in knowing the couple had more than half a century together and are now in heaven.

It was a very, very peaceful time just to be able to see them be together one last time, Wilkins said. Theyre together now.
kiki_13 BHPian



Join Date: Jan 2022 Location: Bangalore Posts: 54 Thanked: 854 Times

Re: Hidden history in the environs of Bangalore Ramadevarabetta - a duet of legends



Legend in different time frames. First, the mythology of Ramayana and next, the legendary super-hit movie Sholay. Ramadevarabetta, close to Ramanagara, holds dear more than one reason for its prominence. The fictional Ramgad in the Indian film Sholay is the actual place at the foothills of Ramadevara Betta. Well laid out steps, painted colourfully, takes you to the top of the hill. A versatile place, it hosts a working temple for the spiritual, mesmerizing landscape for nature lovers.







At 60 kilometres from Electronic City, Ramanagara, also known as the land of seven hills, has various viewpoints with captivating sceneries. The vast parking lot can accommodate several cars and motorcycles. A diversion at the humongous Hanuman statue on the main road will take you towards the destination. Apart from a small shop at the foothills, the main Mysore Road is the only other option for food.







The hill is part of the Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary. This gives a chance to the bird watchers an up-close view of the rare birds. There is a check-post where Rs.25/- per person, Rs.10/- for a two-wheeler is collected. Remember, you are not allowed to fly your drone here. The timing for the temple is 9am to 5pm. Because of that, the gate will remain closed at other times. Climbing approximately 350 steps is not an arduous task. There are plenty of stone benches to rest, with ample greenery around.



Opposite the Rameshwara Temple, there are seven boulders, signifying Sapta Rishi (seven saints). The holy pond of Ramateertha is not accessible, as its depth is unknown. Folk tale says Rama shot an arrow to form the pond, which has not dried ever since. There are various small temples with statues of different deities. To add to that diverse enchanting scenery from a variety of viewpoints.







Folklore tells us the story of Kakasura (king of crows). During the exile, Rama and Sita happened to visit this place. While Rama was asleep, the crow attacks Sita and not wanting to disturb the husband deep in sleep, she decides to tolerate the pain. Rama is awakened when a drop of Sitas blood falls on him. Rama aims an arrow at the crow, at which the bird flew to Vishu and Shiva for refuge. They suggested asking for forgiveness from Rama. For forgiveness, the crow had to sacrifice a part of its body. Which happened to be the left eye. Hence it is said that crows cant see from their left eye. Also, a crow has never been seen in the locality since.







Sugreeva captures the moment when Rama ascended the throne, with Sita on the left, Lakshmana and Hanuman on the right - carved on a stone. On his way to Kishkinda, he had to battle a demon named Sukhasura, during which he had placed the idol on the ground. After which, he could not move it and has remained there from then on. This is another legend from mythical times. Legend in different time frames. First, the mythology of Ramayana and next, the legendary super-hit movie Sholay. Ramadevarabetta, close to Ramanagara, holds dear more than one reason for its prominence. The fictional Ramgad in the Indian film Sholay is the actual place at the foothills of Ramadevara Betta. Well laid out steps, painted colourfully, takes you to the top of the hill. A versatile place, it hosts a working temple for the spiritual, mesmerizing landscape for nature lovers.At 60 kilometres from Electronic City, Ramanagara, also known as the land of seven hills, has various viewpoints with captivating sceneries. The vast parking lot can accommodate several cars and motorcycles. A diversion at the humongous Hanuman statue on the main road will take you towards the destination. Apart from a small shop at the foothills, the main Mysore Road is the only other option for food.The hill is part of the Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary. This gives a chance to the bird watchers an up-close view of the rare birds. There is a check-post where Rs.25/- per person, Rs.10/- for a two-wheeler is collected. Remember, you are not allowed to fly your drone here. The timing for the temple is 9am to 5pm. Because of that, the gate will remain closed at other times. Climbing approximately 350 steps is not an arduous task. There are plenty of stone benches to rest, with ample greenery around.Opposite the Rameshwara Temple, there are seven boulders, signifying Sapta Rishi (seven saints). The holy pond of Ramateertha is not accessible, as its depth is unknown. Folk tale says Rama shot an arrow to form the pond, which has not dried ever since. There are various small temples with statues of different deities. To add to that diverse enchanting scenery from a variety of viewpoints.Folklore tells us the story of Kakasura (king of crows). During the exile, Rama and Sita happened to visit this place. While Rama was asleep, the crow attacks Sita and not wanting to disturb the husband deep in sleep, she decides to tolerate the pain. Rama is awakened when a drop of Sitas blood falls on him. Rama aims an arrow at the crow, at which the bird flew to Vishu and Shiva for refuge. They suggested asking for forgiveness from Rama. For forgiveness, the crow had to sacrifice a part of its body. Which happened to be the left eye. Hence it is said that crows cant see from their left eye. Also, a crow has never been seen in the locality since.Sugreeva captures the moment when Rama ascended the throne, with Sita on the left, Lakshmana and Hanuman on the right - carved on a stone. On his way to Kishkinda, he had to battle a demon named Sukhasura, during which he had placed the idol on the ground. After which, he could not move it and has remained there from then on. This is another legend from mythical times. Last edited by kiki_13 : 2nd February 2022 at 18:55 .
In 2006, the Israeli government set up a Ministry of Strategic Affairs to essentially run two campaigns, one against Iran and the other against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement.

by Vijay Prashad

On January 27, 2022, the Hebrew-language news site Walla published part of the text from a telegram sent by Amir Weissbrodwho is part of the Israeli Foreign Ministryto Israeli embassies around the world. The telegram warned the Israeli diplomats that in the upcoming 49th regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), which is expected to begin on February 28, a report will be tabled regarding Israels 2021 bombing of Gaza. This report will apparently use the word apartheid to refer to Israels occupation of the Palestinians, according to the telegram.

Weissbrod relayed Tel Avivs instructions regarding the report prepared by a UNHRC-appointed committee to the Israeli diplomats through this telegram: The main goal [for Israel] is to delegitimize the committee, its members and products and To prevent or delay further decisions.

After a four year investigation, on February 1, 2022, Amnesty International released a 280-page report with a sharp headline, Israels Apartheid Against Palestinians. Amnesty concluded that Israel has perpetrated the international wrong of apartheid, as a human rights violation and a violation of public international law wherever it imposes this system. It has assessed that almost all of Israels civilian administration and military authorities, as well as governmental and quasigovernmental institutions, are involved in the enforcement of the system of apartheid against Palestinians across Israel and the OPT [Occupied Palestinian Territory] and against Palestinian refugees and their descendants outside the territory. Amnesty further said that these acts amount to the crime against humanity of apartheid under both the Apartheid Convention and the Rome Statute. Israels Foreign Minister Yair Lapid retaliated by accusing Amnesty of quoting lies shared by terrorist organizations. As if on cue, Israels government accused Amnesty of anti-Semitism. The Amnesty report will provide key material for the UNHRC investigation.

One of the immediate issues that will be the focus of attention for the UNHRC session is Israels Operation Guardian of the Walls against the Palestinians in Gaza in May 2021. According to a July 2021 report by Human Rights Watch (HRW), which looked at three Israeli strikes that were part of the operation that killed 62 Palestinians, there were no evident military targets in the vicinity. In its report, HRW used the term war crimes to describe attacks by Israeli forces and Palestinian armed groups. When the firing stopped after 11 days, the UNHRC passed a resolution in late May 2021 to establish an ongoing independent, international commission of inquiry to investigate various crimes in the OPT, including East Jerusalem, and in Israel. Navi Pillay, the former UN high commissioner for human rights and a former South African judge, was appointed to chair the three-person commission, which also included Miloon Kothari, an Indian architect; and Chris Sidoti, an Australian human rights lawyer. The commission is expected to present its first report to the UNHRC in June.

The commission chaired by Pillay is the ninth commission established by the UNHRC to investigate Israeli actions against the Palestinians. It has a very broad mandate that includes to study violations of international humanitarian law, according to the four Geneva Conventions of 1949, which both Israel and Palestine are party to, and to continue to investigate these crimes into the future. It is widely expected that Pillays report will use the word apartheid to define Israeli policy in the OPT. This would not be the first time that a United Nations report has used this term to define Israeli actions against the Palestinians. In 2017, the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) released a report prepared by Richard Falk, a former United Nations special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, and Virginia Tilley, a researcher and professor of political science at Southern Illinois University. The report defined Israeli policy against the Palestinians as apartheid as understood under international law (in his 2014 report, Falk had already used the term apartheid). The release of that 2017 report led to the resignation of ESCWA head Rima Khalaf, a distinguished Jordanian diplomat, after she faced pressure from the [UN] secretary-general to withdraw the report.

Hasbara 2.0

In 2006, the Israeli government set up a Ministry of Strategic Affairs to essentially run two campaigns, one against Iran and the other against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. This hasbara (explaining or, more specifically, propaganda) ministry operated an information war that sought to delegitimize BDS activists and to paint anyone who supported the movement as an anti-Semite. Largely due to criticisms of its heavy-handedness, the Ministry of Strategic Affairs was shut down in July 2021 and some of its functions were shifted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Amir Weissbrods telegram from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is essentially Hasbara 2.0.

On January 23, 2022, the Israeli government set up a new projectConcertinside the Foreign Ministry. This well-funded project will carry forward the mission of Solomons Slinga Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) but controlled by government representatives,to burnish Israels image around the world, particularly in the West. Concert will be the means through which the Israeli government plans to transfer millions of dollars to nongovernment organizations and media houses to ensure that the reporting about Israel is positive. Delegitimization of any critics of Israel is part of the agenda this project aims to achieve.

The telegram sent by Weissbrod is part and parcel of Hasbara 2.0. Weissbrod is an experienced hand, having served Israel at the United Nations in New York and as an ambassador in Jordan, besides working in various ministries in Tel Aviv. In 2011, he told Haaretz that the diplomats from most countries understand Israels position relating to the Palestinian Authority behind closed doors but they are not willing to state publicly what they readily say in a private meeting with Israeli representatives, which is often infuriating. What such duplicity reveals is that these foreign representatives, who agree with Israel behind closed doors, recognize that public opinion in their countries is against Israeli policy, but these representatives know that they must not annoy the Israelis or the U.S. diplomats, who would otherwise make life difficult for their countries. (A senior Indian diplomat told me plainly that India normalized relations with Israel in 1992 because the United States told New Delhi that the road to Washington had to go through Tel Aviv.)

Israel recognizes that few of the countries in the UNHRC will vote against the report that is expected to brand it as an apartheid state. It will try to do two things to prevent the report from coming out: delegitimize the commissioners, notably Pillay, and ask the United States to use its membership on the UNHRC to delay the release of the report.

War Crimes

In March 2021, Fatou Bensouda, the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), confirmed that her office had opened an investigation relating to Rome Statute crimes by Israel against the Palestinians. There are effectively four Rome Statute crimes: crime of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression. Each of these crimes is horrendous.

What Israel fears is that a negative report in the UNHRC might provide evidence for the ICC investigation. On January 3, 2022, Israels Foreign Minister Yair Lapid told Israeli journalists that his government fears that this year a set of international institutions will try to portray Israel as an apartheid state. These institutions include the UNHRC, the ICC, the International Court of Justice, and the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

In the press conference, Lapid called the characterization of Israel as an apartheid state a despicable lie. Two years ago, in June 2020, however, one of Israels most respected human rights organizationsYesh Dinpublished a report with a startling conclusion: It is a difficult statement to make, but the conclusion of this opinion is that the crime against humanity of apartheid is being committed in the West Bank. The perpetrators are Israelis, and the victims are Palestinians. Such statements are anathema to Lapid and Weissbrod, butaccording to Israeli human rights groups (including BTselem) and Palestinian human rights groups (including Al-Haq and Addameer) as well as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watchare a reflection of the facts witnessed on the ground, and no amount of Hasbara 2.0 can erase these facts.

This article was produced by Globetrotter.

Vijay Prashad is an Indian historian, editor and journalist. He is a writing fellow and chief correspondent at Globetrotter. He is the chief editor of LeftWord Books and the director of Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research. He is a senior non-resident fellow at Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies, Renmin University of China. He has written more than 20 books, including The Darker Nations and The Poorer Nations. His latest book is Washington Bullets, with an introduction by Evo Morales Ayma.
CORINTH  A house on Fuller Drive was destroyed by fire early Wednesday morning after a wood stove mishap.

The Corinth Volunteer Fire Department received a call for a working structure fire at 7 Fuller Drive at approximately 4:57 a.m.

Corinth Fire Chief Andy Kelley said that when he arrived on the scene, the house was fully engulfed by the fire.

Kelley said the fire was caused by the resident, who was loading his wood stove. The door was left open and some embers fell onto some papers and flames ignited while the mans back was turned.

After that, the fire took off, according to Kelley.

The only thing he got out of there was the shirt on his back, he said.

The Northeastern New York Chapter of the American Red Cross provided emergency aid following the fire. Financial assistance was provided for necessities like food, clothing and shelter.

Kelley said the fire had a head start before the call came in because the resident lost his cellphone in the blaze. The fire started roughly 20 minutes before fire personnel arrived on the scene, he said.

A few firefighters on the scene donated some cash from their pockets to the resident for food or anything else he needed, and Kelley said that he does not know if a GoFundMe page has been started for the victim.

Mutual aid was provided by firefighters from Wilton, Greenfield Center, Porter Corners and Luzerne-Hadley.

The Corinth Volunteer Fire Department did not get back to the firehouse until around 10:30 a.m., according to Kelley. Personnel on the scene were working to take the structure down after the fire.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

A few clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low near 45F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low near 45F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.
Sen. Roger Wicker is under fire for racist comments he made on SuperTalk last week about President Joe Biden's plan to nominate a Black woman to the Supreme Court.

Mississippi's top elected Democrats are denouncing U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker's racist comments about President Joe Biden's plan to nominate a Black woman to the Supreme Court.

"Sen. Wicker's statements regarding president Biden's desire to appoint a Black woman to the Supreme Court are shocking, appalling and downright resentful of Black women and racial progress," Senate Minority Leader Derrick Simmons, D-Greenville, said.

House Minority Leader Robert Johnson III, D-Natchez, called Wicker's comments unfortunate.

"I don't know him to be a racist and don't think he is, but that was a racist statement," said Johnson, who served in the Mississippi Legislature with Wicker.

Wicker said Biden's nominee would be the beneficiary of affirmative action.

"The irony is that the Supreme Court is at the very same time hearing cases about this sort of affirmative racial discrimination while adding someone who is the beneficiary of this sort of quota," Wicker said Friday in an appearance on conservative radio station SuperTalk.

Roger Wicker: GOP Senator Wicker slammed for racist comment on Biden's plan to pick Black woman for court

Wicker's comments brought blowback from Democrats and members of his own party.

Simmons said he would have labeled Wicker's comments misogynistic if it weren't for Wicker's vocal support of Justice Amy Coney Barrett's nomination. In 2020, Wicker said Barrett would "prove an inspiration" to his daughters and granddaughters.

Rep. Robert Johnson III, D-Natchez, said while he doesn't know Wicker to be a racist, his comments certainly were.

Since its creation, 95% of U.S. Supreme Court justices have been white men. Five women have served on the court, ever.

Women hold about 39% of state supreme court seats nationwide, according to the Brennan Center.

Biden promised to nominate a Black woman to the nation's highest court during his 2020 campaign. He is getting the chance to make a nomination in the wake of Justice Stephen Breyer's retirement.

Story continues

"What it suggests is we have not ever given enough thought to people of color, and even less thought to women of color in this country," Johnson said.

Johnson said Wicker's comments appear to be a response to attempts to change the status quo of power in America.

"Nobody ever questioned whether or not you're going to nominate a white man, because they're presumed to be qualified," Johnson said. "But if you suggest that we need to try to at least think about somebody Black, somebody who's a Black woman, that somehow that's some doing something extra?"

Lee O. Sanderlin is an investigative and political reporter covering the state of Mississippi. Got a story tip? You can call him at 601-559-3857, send it to LSanderlin@gannett.com or message him on Twitter @LeeOSanderlin.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Sen. Roger Wicker criticized for Supreme Court comments: MS Democrats
The Rio Grande at Caballo Lake State Park in New Mexico in May 2021.

This story was originally published by El Paso Matters.

EL PASO - Parties in the rancorous lawsuit between Texas and New Mexico over groundwater pumping on the Rio Grande are in settlement talks to possibly end the dispute.

As the fight before the U.S. Supreme Court stretches into its ninth year, ending litigation would mean a lower cost for taxpayers, whove already shelled out more than $30 million between the two states.

Judge Michael Melloy, who oversees the case as special master, postponed the second part of the trial in an order issued last week and gave parties until March 1 to let the court know how settlement talks are proceeding. The second part of the trial was initially slated to begin March 13.

If a settlement agreement isnt reached, Melloy will schedule an in-person trial in Cedar Rapids, Iowa for late summer into the fall, the order stated.

Jerri Mares, New Mexico attorney generals office spokesperson, said in a statement the office wants to ensure New Mexico farmers and small businesses get a fair water deal.

The Texas attorney generals office did not respond to a request for comment.

A flock of egrets flies over the Rio Grande near Derry, N.M., as the river fills with water released from Caballo Reservoir in May.

The case  officially called No. 141 Original Texas v. New Mexico and Colorado  is the latest lawsuit over water between Texas and New Mexico.

In a 2011 federal lawsuit, New Mexico alleged the federal government shorted the state its share of Rio Grande water, and gave too much to Texas.

In response, Texas filed a lawsuit against New Mexico in the U.S. Supreme Court in 2014, alleging New Mexico takes more than its fair share of the water through diversion and groundwater pumping. Texas said New Mexico violated the Rio Grande Compact, an 82-year-old agreement that spells out how Colorado, New Mexico and Texas can split the water in the river.

The court allowed the U.S. Department of Justice to intervene in the case on Texas behalf. (Colorado is also named in the lawsuit, but is not presenting a case, as the issues are between New Mexico and Texas.)

Story continues

After years of rulings determining the scope of the case and the parties, the virtual portion of the two-part trial started in October. It included testimony from federal and state agencies, farmers, irrigation managers, and El Paso and Las Cruces city officials. That phase of the trial ended in November.

The pending second portion, if it goes forward, is to include in-person technical testimony on various models from hydrologists and other scientists.

Danielle Prokop is a climate change and environment reporter with El Paso Matters. She can be reached at dprokop@elpasomatters.org.

Others are reading:

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Settlement talks push back Supreme Court Rio Grande water case trial
The United States States has said that it "would not endorse" Rahul Gandhi's remarks on the foreign policies of the BJP-led government, which the Congress leader alleged had brought "China and Pakistan together." Responding to a question on Rahul Gandhi suggesting that China and Pakistan are closer due to the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government, US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price in a press briefing said, "I will leave it to the Pakistanis and the PRC to speak to their relationship. I certainly would not - would not endorse those remarks." Asked about Pakistan working closely with China, the spokesperson said that countries are not required to choose between the US and China, adding that American partnership conveys a series of advantages. "We've made the point all along that it is not a requirement for any country around the world to choose between the United States and China. It is our intention to provide choices to countries when it comes to what the relationship with the United States looks like. And we think the partnership with the United States conveys a series of advantages that countries typically would not find when it comes to the sorts of partnerships that - "partnerships" may be the wrong term; the sorts of relationships that the PRC has sought to - has sought to have around the world," said Price. He, however, reiterated that "Pakistan is a strategic partner of the United States". "We have an important relationship with the government in Islamabad, and it's a relationship that we value across a number of fronts," added the spokesperson. On February 2, Rahul Gandhi while participating in the debate on the motion of thanks on the President's Address in Lok Sabha claimed that Prime Minister Modi brought Pakistan and China together and called it the "single biggest crime that you could commit against the people of India". "The Chinese have a very clear vision of what they want to do. The single biggest strategic goal of India's foreign policy has been to keep Pakistan and China separate. What you have done is, you have brought them together," he said. "Do not be under any illusion, do not underestimate the force that is standing in front of you. You have brought Pakistan and China together. This is the single biggest crime that you could commit against the people of India," he added. (ANI)
The Department of Health and Human Services has awarded more than $1.6 million in federal funding for Head Start programs at Project NOW, 418 19th St., Rock Island.

Project NOW is a community action agency serving Rock Island, Henry and Mercer counties in Illinois.

U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos, D-Moline, announced the funding in a press release Tuesday.

"Since 1968, Project NOW has helped improve living standards for low-income families and seniors in our community, and their Head Start program is an essential service for our local children," Bustos said.

Project NOW helps low-income families and seniors meet their basic needs and improve their standard of living. They assist by providing services such as employment training and placement, financial management, temporary shelter and early learning programs for Americas most vulnerable young children.

Bustos is a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees the Department of Health and Human Services, which issued the grant.
Washington [US], February 3 (ANI/Sputnik): US President Joe Biden has said that his decision to deploy several thousand more troops to Europe over the Ukraine crisis is "totally consistent" with that he has told Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Earlier in the day, the US Defence Department announced the extra US forces will deploy to Poland, Germany and Romania in the next several days.

Also Read | UK's Embattled PM Boris Johnson Seeks Reset With Major Economic Plan.

Biden said that his order is "totally consistent" with that he has told Putin since the beginning, according to the White House.

"As long as he's acting aggressively, we are going to make sure we reassure our NATO allies in Eastern Europe that we're there and Article 5 is a sacred obligation," Biden said.

Also Read | COVID-19 Death Toll in US Reaches Highest Level, Says Report.

The Defence Department is sending 2,000 US troops to Europe in the next several days in response to the Ukraine crisis, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday.

Most of the 2,000 troops will be deployed in Poland and the deployment will be temporal, he said.

Moreover, Kirby added that approximately 1,000 US troops currently based in Germany will be moved to Romania at the invitation of Bucharest.

At the same time, the Defense Department does not exclude that a decision will be made to transfer additional US forces to Eastern Europe or to redeploy military contingents within Europe in the coming days or weeks, Kirby said, adding that the decision will depend on the development of the situation on the Ukrainian border with Russia.

Kirby also underscored that all newly announced troop deployments in Europe are separate from the 8,500 US troops being already on heightened alert since late January.

The US military is sent to Eastern Europe not to fight in Ukraine, but to ensure the defense of the NATO allies and partners, he added. (ANI/Sputnik)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New photos reveal the tense scene at Real Housewives Of Orange County star Elizabeth Vargas' home on Tuesday as members of a SWAT team swarmed around it.

The 46-year-old reality star was 'held at gunpoint' and 'roughed up' by an ex-boyfriend, sources told TMZ on Wednesday.

Photos from the standoff show several police officers in body arm with assault-style rifles drawn as they entered the house in Newport Beach.

Armed showdown: New photos reveal the dramatic standoff between SWAT team members and an armed man who allegedly held RHOC's Elizabeth Vargas at gunpoint on Tuesday

A woman who appears to be Vargas was spotted from across the street as she spoke with police after the standoff.

She appeared to have exited her home while wearing a white bath robe, which she had on as she stood in the doorway and talked to officers.

In addition to the heavily armed and armored law enforcement members who surrounded the house, her residence was also surrounded by a militarized SWAT vehicle.

One member of the team can be seen popping out of a turret on top of the vehicle, and the shield over the opening appears to protect them.

Shocking: The 46-year-old reality star was 'held at gunpoint' and 'roughed up' by an ex-boyfriend, sources told TMZ on Wednesday; still from RHOC

Woman in white: A woman who appears to be Vargas was spotted from across the street as she spoke with police after the standoff. She appeared to have exited her home while wearing a white bath robe

Heavy duty: In addition to the heavily armed and armored law enforcement members who surrounded the house, her residence was also surrounded by a militarized SWAT vehicle

Surrounded: One member of the team can be seen popping out of a turret on top of the vehicle, and the shield over the opening appears to protect them

In order to keep the crisis contained, police appear to have sealed off traffic to the neighborhood.

Officers who appeared to have less body armor on than the SWAT team were also spotted holding large semi-automatic rifles as they cut off traffic near Vargas' residence.

Officers were also seen heading up to the front door after Vargas' ex-boyfriend entered.

In addition to parking the large armored truck out front, other officers wearing body armor were stationed around the house with weapons drawn.

Spotted: Elizabeth was seen outside of her home on Wednesday just 24 hours after the SWAT team descended on her property

Brave face: She star had a huge smile on her face while chatting with a male friend outside of her residence

Trauma: The sighting comes as Vargas' manager revealed to the New York Post that she is 'shaken up' over Tuesday night's scary ordeal and that it was an 'extremely traumatizing experience' for her

Furry companion: As she chatted with her friend, Elizabeth had one hand clutched around her dog Coda's leash

Farewell: Before bidding farewell, Elizabeth gave him a huge hug

Elizabeth was seen outside of her home on Wednesday just 24 hours after the SWAT team descended on her property.

She had a huge smile on her face while chatting with a male friend outside of her residence.

The sighting comes as Elizabeth's manager revealed to the New York Post that she is 'shaken up' over Tuesday night's scary ordeal and that it was an 'extremely traumatizing experience' for her.

Later in the evening, an Irvine Police rescue vehicle was also parked in the alley running alongside the house.

Nobody in: In order to keep the crisis contained, police appear to have sealed off traffic to the neighborhood

Checking in: Officers were also seen heading up to the front door after Vargas' ex-boyfriend entered

Covered: In addition to parking the large armored truck out front, other officers wearing body armor were stationed around the house with weapons drawn

Reinforcements: Later in the evening, an Irvine Police rescue vehicle was also parked in the alley running alongside the house

Although TMZ reported that one person was taken into custody following the altercation, they appear to have not been taking any chances.

Photos from the evening show a team of SWAT members going through the house, and they could also be glimpsed standing on the second floor balcony looking into another room from the outside.

A drone was pictured illuminating the exterior of the house while SWAT members searched it after dark.

Vargas appears to have been able to gain entrance to her home again sometime on Tuesday night, as a figure that appears to be her was glimpsed through a window.

Police appeared to have broken down or damaged the door during their initial entrance into the home, as a worker was later seen boarding up the entrance with particle board.

Later on Wednesday, police announced in a press release that Ryan Geraghty, 33, had been charged with assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, being a felon in possession of a firearm and extortion.

'Once inside the residence, police officers encountered an armed male suspect who was actively threatening the life of the victim,' the statement read.

Entering: Photos from the evening show a team of SWAT members going through the house

Glimpsed: They could also be glimpsed standing on the second floor balcony looking into another room from the outside

Back home? Vargas appears to have been able to gain entrance to her home again sometime on Tuesday night, as a figure that appears to be her was glimpsed through a window

Damaged: Police appeared to have broken down or damaged the door during their initial entrance into the home, as a worker was later seen boarding up the entrance with particle board

Opened wide: Supplies related to the investigation appeared to have been placed inside the entranceway

Sources close to Vargas later told TMZ that she had been 'traumatized' by being held at gunpoint.

Her manager Dave Weintraub told the New York Post that she 'shaken up and had an extremely traumatizing experience.'

'Fortunately, the Newport Police Department saved her and shes doing well,' he added.

Sources close to the RHOC star told the outlet that she called the police on Tuesday after he allegedly began extorting her, and they were surveilling her house when he arrived while armed.

'He became obsessive with her and would show up at places and come by her house randomly,' one insider claimed of the man, whom she had reportedly been dating on and off in recent months.

'He asked her for money all the time, so she gave him a little money, but then threatened to start extorting her.'

The source claimed his latest request was for a car, which Vargas refused to give him.

Frightening: Sources close to Vargas later told TMZ that she had been 'traumatized' by being held at gunpoint, and her manager Dave Weintraub told the New York Post that she 'shaken up and had an extremely traumatizing experience'; still from RHOC

Amid the surveillance on Vargas' house, the source said her ex entered her home with a firearm.

'When [police] realized he pulled a gun out, they raided,' the insider said.

Luckily, the reality star appears to have emerged unharmed, despite being 'roughed up.'

Vargas is best known for her stint on The Real Housewives Of Orange County, but she only lasted one season on the long-running reality show.

Back in June, Bravo opted not to renew contracts for her and her costars Kelly Dodd and Braunwyn Windham-Burke.
WAHOO  Saunders County officials widely agree that the county is in need of a new emergency radio system, but determining a funding method is proving to be a tricky task.

The Saunders County Board of Supervisors on Dec. 7 voted to hire Rey Freeman Communications Consulting to perform a study to help the county decide on a radio system that would upgrade the current system, while considering the countys budget.

Freeman had also been tapped by Dodge County and Platte County to conduct similar studies.

Saunders County Emergency Manager Terry Miller updated the board at its Jan. 25 meeting on the progress of Freeman Consultings study. The goal had been to have the study done, with at least two radio system recommendations, in time for the board to vote on an option and choose a funding method by May. The deadline to submit items for the May ballot is March 1. Miller said he expects Freeman Consultings study to be completed by June.

The new radio system would be used by law enforcement, fire departments and EMS teams. Responders throughout the county have expressed dissatisfaction with the current system, reporting gaps in coverage, particularly near Wahoo, Leshara, Valparaiso and Ceresco.

There is also concern about the radio systems compatibility with nearby counties  Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties, for example, use an extensive ORION radio system that allows communication among the counties and their agencies. ORION operates with a simulcast design that allows for wide coverage with few dead zones.

Wahoo Fire Chief Cody Hull told the Wahoo City Council at its Jan. 11 meeting that his department has anticipated the ORION system being implemented in the county to allow interoperability with border counties.

Previous estimates for the total cost of the new radio system have been north of $10 million, and the county board had proposed spending some of its American Rescue Plan Act funds on the project. The county would not have room to cover the remaining cost in its budget, Miller said.

Miller told the board that he visited Freeman Consultings offices in Minnesota on Dec. 23 and explained the needs of the county.

We need a system we can afford. Not necessarily the best system, but a system we can afford, Miller said.

He said Sheriffs Deputy Kyle Coughlin also spoke with Freeman about the Sheriffs Departments needs in a new radio system. Coughlin also expressed that he would prefer to get the right item on the ballot, rather than rushing Freemans study to hit the March 1 deadline.

"(Coughlin) says, You know, we got one shot to put it on the ballot, and if it gets denied, everything starts all over again, Miller told the board.

Supervisor Tom Hrdlicka said he thought the process to complete the study would have moved more quickly.

I thought we could have been ready by May, Hrdlicka said.

Miller said there are concerns regarding the new radio system that still need to be addressed and that would appear in Freemans study, such as acquisitions of new radio tower sites and structural analyses of the equipment involved. Freeman also told Miller that the study could end up saving the county millions in the long run.

He thought there were a lot of things that they had in there that could be done by the county that could save us a lot of money, Miller said.

Miller suggested that a potential cost-saving measure would be for the county to implement a system similar to how Mead Fire Department uses their radios. He said Mead bought a $30,000 ultra high frequency (UHF) radio system that the department uses among its team members, and they use county-wide 800 megahertz radios when they need to communicate with dispatch.

The same concept could be used with the ORION system, Miller said. If youve got law enforcement thats got a task force going over to Dodge or Douglas County, they could have an ORION radio there. But their team that theyre working with could still be operating on their own radios.

The ORION system uses specific Motorola radios, which can be expensive for smaller fire departments, like those in Ithaca and Valparaiso. Miller said he hopes that all fire districts and city and village officials in the county are brought in to give their input before the board makes its ultimate decision.

Sam Crisler is a reporter for The Wahoo Newspaper and The Ashland Gazette. Reach him via email at samuel.crisler@wahoonewspaper.com.
Every year about this time beekeepers drive to remote, unguarded almond orchards in Kern County and drop off tens of thousands of dollars wort
Rapper Young Buck was arrested in Nashville Wednesday in connection with a vandalism charge.

The rapper, 40, was released on $1,000 bond from the Davidson County jail after he was taken into custody on Wednesday as authorities said he did damage to his ex-girlfriend's vehicle, the Nashville Tennessean reported, citing the arrest warrant in the case.

Metro Nashville Police told the outlet that the ex-girlfriend of the musical artist told them that he sent a text that he was heading over to her home, which is in the Antioch neighborhood of Nashville.

The latest: Rapper Young Buck, 40, was arrested in Nashville Wednesday in connection with a vandalism charge. The rapper was snapped in 2018 in NYC

The woman told authorities that she didn't answer the door when Young Buck, whose full name is David Darnell Brown, arrived at the residence, and then he began kicking the front door, before eventually departing.

The woman told police that after he left, she observed that her vehicle, which had been parked in her driveway, had been damaged on the driver and passenger sides.

Authorities verified the damage to the vehicle and said that the incident had been recorded on a security camera.

Police said Young Buck was subsequently pulled over on a traffic stop and arrested in connection with the incident.

The rapper was seen onstage in Las Vegas in October of 2015

Young Buck was seen in a mug shot in 2016 after he received a seven-month federal prison sentence in connection to a probation violation linked to a case of verbal assault from his former girlfriend

The Shorty Wanna Ride artist, who was affiliated with 50 Cent's G-Unit group, was booked into jail prior to 6:45 a.m. and let out on bail prior to 10 a.m. Wednesday, authorities said.

Young Buck has had his share of legal issues in recent years, as he was arrested in October of 2020 in connection with domestic assault in Sumner County, Tennessee, days after this then-girlfriend Lucresia Neil was arrested in connection with an incident in which she fired a gun at him.

He was arrested in December of 2019 on a fugitive from justice warrant over a charge of child abandonment he got in Georgia.

Young Buck in 2016 received a seven-month federal prison sentence in connection to a probation violation linked to a case of verbal assault from his former girlfriend.
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and Prime Minister of Bahrain, center, receives a brief on the GHOST 4 unmanned aerial vehicle at Naval Support Activity Bahrain on Jan. 31, 2022. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Mark Thomas Mahmod)

US Navy Leads Largest Ever AI-Assisted Unmanned Maritime Exercise in Middle East

The U.S. Navy has kicked off the largest ever unmanned international maritime exercise in the Middle East region.

The Navy stated on Jan. 31 that an 18-day training event commenced during a ceremony at the U.S. 5th Fleets headquarters in Bahrain.

Led by U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, 60 partner nations and international organizations are participating in the 2022 edition of the International Maritime Exercise (IMX). Training in this years IMX will span across the Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, and North Indian Ocean.

According to the command, more than 80 unmanned systems will be tested by 10 of the participating partner nations, marking the largest group of unmanned platforms used in a naval exercise to date.

This level of representation demonstrates shared resolve in preserving the rules-based international order, Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces, said in a statement.

He also noted that the event provides a unique opportunity to increase the commands capabilities and interoperability while strengthening maritime ties.

The Navy stated that the IMX will allow participants to test unmanned systems and artificial intelligence technologies in various training scenarios and ultimately apply the lessons learned to future real-world operations. Training will also focus on enhancing capabilities in command and control, sea control, maritime security operations, and mine countermeasures.

The exercise marks the first time artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have been tested at the IMX since it was established in 2012.

We are really excited about IMX because the size and scale of it will really allow us to get a lot of experience, Cmdr. Tom McAndrew, exercise planner for unmanned systems and AI integration, told reporters, according to FedScoop.

McAndrew also said that search and rescue will be a focus during training, according to Defense News. He told reporters that AI and unmanned systems may aid in search-and-rescue operations in the future.

International naval forces participating in the exercise are split into four geographical combined task forces, led by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Kenya, and Oman. A fifth task force group, named Task Force X, was established to focus on unmanned systems and artificial intelligence integration, according to the Navy.

Cmdr. Kenyatta Martin, lead exercise planner for the IMX, said planning began in December 2020 for the 2022 training event.

Once we did incorporate the unmanned systems [as] part of the exercise, it was quite a bit of interest from our partner nations to participateand not just on a level of curiosity [and observing only], but a level of integration and participation with the knowledge of this unmanned and AI being a part of the coalition force, Martin said, according to Defense News.

The training exercise is scheduled to be completed on Feb. 17.
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  A handful of election proposals advancing at the Legislature would tighten the rules for poll challengers, extend some voting rights to 16-year-olds and open primary elections to independent voters.

Other bills would expand recall elections and make intimidation of election workers a felony.

Debate over the wide-ranging package of bills  some of which conflict with each other  follows the collapse of voting legislation at the federal level just two weeks ago.

But legislators and advocates say this year is a vital opportunity to make changes in New Mexico.

With just 15 days left in the session, the proposals will have to move fast to navigate both chambers at the Roundhouse. No bill has crossed over from one chamber to the other so far.

Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver, a Democrat and the states chief elections officer, said shes optimistic that significant changes will make it into law this year.

She is backing at least two major bills  one of which would grant 16-year-olds the right to vote in local elections  under debate in the Senate.

The pandemic, she said, made it clear that New Mexico must protect ballot access for voters in rural areas and Indigenous communities.

Senate Bill 8, one of the proposals shes lobbying for, would establish a permanent absentee voter list and create a Native American voting rights act that would allow the mailing of a requested absentee ballot to a chapter house.

This is a more critical time than ever to get these changes passed, Toulouse Oliver said Wednesday.

The proposal was the subject of a hearing before the Senate Rules Committee on Wednesday and scheduled for more consideration Friday.

Its one of the most expansive election bills now under discussion. It would automate some voter registration and restore the voting rights of felons upon release from custody, in addition to allowing 16-year-olds to vote in local elections.

Its backed by high-ranking Democrats at the Capitol, including Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth of Santa Fe, House Majority Leader Javier Martinez of Albuquerque, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Toulouse Oliver.

In Wednesdays hearing, Wirth said the bill is all the more important as the U.S. Senate fails to act at the federal level.

New Mexicos debate also comes as some states are passing more restrictive voting laws, influenced in part by ex-President Donald Trumps false claim that the 2020 election was stolen from him.

I think its fair to say our democracy is under attack, Wirth said, and central to that is this battle over voting rights.

Republicans have repeatedly blasted Senate Bill 8, describing it as a measure that will confuse voters and make elections less secure.

Democratic Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto of Albuquerque has also suggested he will scrutinize the bill. He said supporters should be prepared to answer questions about what the proposal is trying to accomplish and whether its the right way to achieve those goals.

The provision to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in local elections is also inciting debate.

I love my daughter  shes not ready to vote, Senate Minority Leader Greg Baca, R-Belen, said earlier this session after Lujan Grisham highlighted the idea in her opening day State of the State speech.

The bill is far from passage. It would have to clear the Senate Rules Committee and another committee to reach the full Senate.

Change is difficult. What were talking about is really transformative, Sen. Harold Pope Jr., an Albuquerque Democrat and co-sponsor of the bill, said. But Im confident we can get it done.

Toulouse Oliver said she remains optimistic.

Its a process. Theres needs to be deliberation, she said. But I think were really in good position.

Nearing Senate vote

The election bill closest to passage so far is a bipartisan bill backed by Ivey-Soto and Republican Sen. Crystal Diamond of Elephant Butte, among others.

Senate Bill 6 would require training for poll watchers and challengers, and it would prohibit someone from serving in that role if they had previously been removed by election officials for violating election rules.

It also would require counties to use voting convenience centers, which allow voters to cast a ballot at any polling location, and call on the Secretary of States Office to develop a program to maintain accurate voter rolls.

This bill addresses election integrity and transparency, Diamond said.

Sen. Mark Moores, R-Albuquerque, described the bill as a great opportunity to boost confidence in elections by passing legislation with bipartisan support.

The bill was discussed by the full Senate on Wednesday, with a final vote scheduled for Thursday. If passed, it would go to the House and be assigned to committees there.

Primary, recall changes

Two proposed constitutional amendments in the House have also cleared at least one committee so far.

House Joint Resolution 5, a bipartisan measure, would allow independent voters to participate in primary elections, unless a political party chooses to pay for its own elections.

House Joint Resolution 12, sponsored by Republican lawmakers, would make state elected officials subject to recall elections.

Each resolution has passed one committee and must clear at least one more to reach the full House. They would also have to be approved by voters if passed by each chamber of the Legislature.

Dan Boyd of the Journal Capitol Bureau contributed to this article.

Election legislation

Senate Bill 6: Establish new rules for poll challengers, require voter convenience centers that allow voters to cast ballots at any polling location and impose an 11 p.m. halt to absentee-vote counting on election night.

Bipartisan sponsors. Passed two committees, scheduled for Senate vote Thursday.
State workplace regulators have issued one of the largest fines yet for failing to protect employees from COVID-19 on the job to a Bakersfield
The allocation for in the Union Budget is 4.43 per cent higher than the revised estimates of last year and 9.8 percent higher than the budget estimates of last year. There was also what appeared to be a big push for Make in India in defence, which could bring some cheer to India Inc.



Before we delve into the details, let's understand the breakup of this Budget's allocation. Of the 5.25 trillion rupees allocated for defence, the revenue allocation takes up 2.33 trillion rupees, while the capital allocation stands at 1.52 trillion rupees and pensions at 1.19 trillion rupees.



Capital allocation is meant to cover both new purchases as well as payments for past procurements. What is important is that, of the 1.52 trillion rupees in capital allocation, 68 per cent will be reserved for procurement from Indian industry. In Budget 2021, 70,221 crore rupees, or about 63 per cent, of the defence capital allocation was reserved for Indian industry.



Meanwhile, 58% of the defence capital allocation was reserved for Indian industry in 2020-21, when such a component was set aside for domestic defence firms for the first time.



In her Budget speech, Finance Minister said that the private industry would be encouraged to take up design and development of military platforms and equipment in collaboration with DRDO and other organisations through SPV model. The finance minister added that an independent nodal umbrella body would be set up for meeting wide-ranging testing and certification requirements.



The finance minister also said that a quarter of the research and development (R&D) budget of the Ministry of Defence will be set aside for private players, including start-ups and academia.



On the face of it, such steps will definitely lead to the countrys armed forces sourcing a greater share of their arms and equipment from the domestic industry. But, will these items truly be of indigenous origin? Will they be designed and developed by the domestic industry? Or, as has happened often, will they be products designed by foreign original equipment manufacturers that Indian firms simply produce under a license?



Defence expert and Business Standard columnist Ajai Shukla said:

Having a quota for domestic industry is a positive step

However, orders placed under this quota might have sub-orders placed with foreign companies

Mechanism to monitor details of orders placed under such quota required

Rahul Chaudhry, Principal & CMD GTM Consulting; Chair of National Committee on Home Land Security, FICCI; and former CEO of Tata Power SED; said:

Many DPSUs and Indian defence manufacturers are engaged in license production

Therefore, we must keep track of two things  How much of a defence order is made up of imported sub-components How much actual value addition is being done by Indian industry

Design, development and engineering of defence equipment must take place in the country)



Hopefully, the government will take cognisance of these issues and accordingly adjust its strategy and policies for the domestic defence industry. Time alone will tell whether India will succeed in setting up an independent and self-reliant military-industrial complex that can meet the ever-growing and changing vital needs of its armed forces.
Here is a summary of Uyghur-related news around the world in the past week.

IOC pressed on rights issues

Two U.S. lawmakers, a Democrat and a Republican, pushed the International Olympic Committee on Friday to take a position on China's treatment of Uyghurs, which rights groups have described as genocide. China has denied such accusations and accuses the U.S. of politicizing the Olympic Games.

Olympic boycott urged

Uyghur, Tibetan and Hong Kong activists called on athletes and the media to boycott the Beijing Olympics. Rights groups have accused China of human rights abuses in Xinjiang, Hong Kong and Tibet. China says the accusations are based on "ideological prejudice" and "lies and rumors."

Help for Uyghur orphans

An orphanage in Istanbul run by a Uyghur Muslim cleric gives hope to more than 100 Uyghur orphans whom Chinese authorities separated from their parents in Xinjiang, a Chinese region in Central Asia.

Japanese resolution on rights in China

Japan's parliament passed a resolution expressing concern about China's human rights abuses in Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong. China accused Japan of slander, saying the resolution "ignores the facts."

Uyghur relatives jailed

Radio Free Asia reported that two female members of an extended Uyghur family were jailed under China's antiterrorism law because of their religious practices.

News in brief

A Uyghur activist and high school teacher in Canada is asking athletes who receive medals at the Beijing Winter Olympics to make a crescent-shaped hand gesture on the podium as a sign of hope for the Uyghur people. The Olympic charter states, however, that "no kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites." On the other hand, the charter does allow athletes to express their views outside Olympic venues "before or after the Olympic Games."

Quote of note

"If China disrespects the athletes' right to express their opinions, it will prove that Beijing was not a place fit enough to hold the Olympics."

 Kabir Qurban, Uyghur activist in Canada, calling for hand gesture of solidarity on Olympic podium
Episode 31: Richard Kyte and Scott Rada talk about Gallup's annual rankings of the honesty and ethics of various professions. In the second segment they discuss a recent column that says we should stop worrying about "the way things used to be. And in the third segment, they look at what Americans like about their health care.

Links to stories discussed during the podcast:

Gallup: Military Brass, Judges Among Professions at New Image Lows, by Lydia Saad

Why you should stop worrying about 'the way things used to be,' by Jason Feifer

What Americans like about their health care, by Timothy Taylor

Do I Really Need a Toilet? And other questions you cant believe you ask yourself when youre looking for an apartment in New York, by Stephen Ruddy, The New York Times

Subscribe to this podcast at Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.

About the hosts: Scott Rada is social media manager with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wis.
More than 90 per cent of the people who have taken at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine in Uttar Pradesh could have developed resistance against the virus, according to a sero-prevalence survey undertaken by the state health department.

Sharing the findings, Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Amit Mohan Prasad said: "Samples for the survey were taken about a fortnight."

Amit Mohan Prasad said that the total number of doses administered in the state crossed 26.46 crore mark. This includes 15.82 crore first dose takers, 10.48 crore fully vaccinated people and 15.35 crore precaution dose recipients, besides teenagers.

Also Read | India's daily Covid-19 cases rise to 1.72 lakh

He also urged people due for their second or precaution dose to come forward and get inoculated and adhere to the Covid-19 prevention protocol in individual and social interest.

More than one crore teenagers in Uttar Pradesh have taken the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine which means that over 71 per cent of the estimated eligible population in the state has received the first dose.

Meanwhile, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has written to state governments, including Uttar Pradesh, to ramp up the second dose coverage of adolescent and young persons.

In a letter to the Chief Secretary, the Ministry has asked the state to develop an effective communication strategy to draw children and youths to vaccination centres.

Check out latest DH videos here
Vice President Mike Pence presides over a Joint session of Congress to certify the 2020 Electoral College results on Capitol Hill in Washington on Jan. 6, 2020. (Erin Schaff/The New York Times via Getty Images)

National Archives Plans to Turn Over Mike Pence Records to Jan. 6 Panel

The National Archives says it plans to release the White House records of former Vice President Mike Pence to the House Jan. 6 committee.

In a letter (pdf) to former President Donald Trump on Feb. 1, national archivist David Ferriero said he will deliver the records on March 3, barring any court intervention.

After consultation with the Counsel to the President and the Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Counsel, and as instructed by President Biden, I have determined to disclose to the [Jan. 6 Committee] the Vice Presidential records from our December 8, 2021, Notification that you identified as privileged in your letter of January 18, 2022, Ferriero wrote.

He added that the National Archives is continuing to turn over vice presidential records that Trump hasnt asserted privilege over.

This marks the first set of records related to Pences office cleared for release by the records agency following a request for them from the panel investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. Pence hasnt testified to the panel.

Trump, in a Jan. 18 letter (pdf) to Ferriero, had formally asserted executive privilege over a series of records he determined contain information subject to executive privilege, including the presidential communications and deliberative process privileges.

However, President Joe Bidens administration didnt affirm Trumps assertions of privilege.

In a letter (pdf) on Feb. 1, White House counsel Dana Remus responded to a Jan. 18 request from Ferriero seeking Bidens views regarding the release of the documents.

In any event, to the extent any of the documents in question could be subject to a claim of executive privilege of any sort, including by the former President, President Biden has determined that an assertion of such a privilege is not justified and is not in the best interests of the United States, she told Ferriero.

The Supreme Court has recognized the authority of a former President, in certain circumstances, to assert claims of the presidential communications privilege, which encompasses certain communications made in connection with the Presidents exercise of the responsibilities of his office.

Many of the records as to which the former President has made a claim of privilege in this set of documents, however, were communications concerning the former Vice Presidents responsibilities as President of the Senate in certifying the vote of presidential electors on January 6, 2021.

Although those records qualify as Vice-Presidential records under the Presidential Records Act and therefore are subject to the provisions of the Act concerning exceptions to restricted access, see 44 U.S.C. [Section] 2207, 2205, they are not subject to claims of the presidential communications privilege.

Separately, the Supreme Court in January rejected Trumps request to block the National Archives from releasing other records from his administration to the Jan. 6 committee, which is now starting to receive the records.

The National Archives had confirmed to news outlets that some of the documents in its possession had been ripped up by Trump during his time in office and needed to be reconstructed with tape by government officials.

These were turned over to the National Archives at the end of the Trump administration, along with a number of torn-up records that had not been reconstructed by the White House, the agency said in a statement.

The Jan. 6 panel has been criticized for its partisanship. It includes seven Democrats and two Republicans, Reps. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) and Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), who were among 10 GOP lawmakers who voted to impeach the former president in 2021.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) chose Kinzinger and Cheney after refusing to seat some Republican lawmakers who had been picked by House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).
NEW YORK  The number of Americans looking to start their own business is on the rise, as the coronavirus pandemic creates opportunities for some would-be entrepreneurs.

People are starting businesses for a variety of reasons: some lost their job during the pandemic and decided to make their side hustle their main occupation. Others reevaluated their priorities and decided to leave the corporate world. Some took advantage of the flexibility of working remotely and lower commercial rents.

There were 5.4 million applications for business tax identification numbers filed in 2021, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, surpassing the previous peak in 2020 of 4.4 million In 2019, pre-pandemic, there were 3.5 million new business applications. The applications dont necessarily mean businesses were launched, but the numbers do show that people were considering starting companies despite the viruss impact on the economy. Some economists attribute part of the nations labor shortage to an increase in people who have recently gone to work for themselves.

Now, these new owners are also dealing with the problems the pandemic has posed for many established businesses: changing guidance from health officials, difficulty reaching customers, snags in the supply chain and general uncertainty about whats ahead.

Darin Mays of Minneapolis had been a healthcare software executive for 15 years when the pandemic came and the project he was working on ended. Mays could have accepted a different assignment but decided to leave instead.

While living on his severance package, he made a table that encircles a patio heater for a neighbor, who soon hosted a cookout. Everyone said this table is great, you should throw it on Etsy. He did and sold his first one about a week later.

Mays, 38, has a patent pending for his table designs, and he also sells other woodwork at his Etsy store, Urban Wing Co. The shop took in six figures in revenue in 2021, he said, and hes thinking about expanding.

The pandemic, as much as its been awful, has been an opportunity for innovation, he said.

The increase in entrepreneurship in the past two years is much different than what happened after the last downturn in 2008-2009, when weak consumer spending and the hangover from the housing bubble dragged on the economy and new business formation fell.

People who start their own companies are counted as employed by the government, lowering the jobless rate. But they arent included in the governments count of total payroll jobs. As a result, the number of new jobs added each month may be understated as more Americans have struck out on their own. The Labor Department issues its latest employment report on Friday.

For Kelly Van Arsdale, 32, a pandemic-related relocation and a fortuitous stroll past a well-located storefront were keys to starting up his own business.

Van Arsdale was a freelance web developer in San Francisco when the pandemic hit. He and his wife decided to move to Seattle in August of 2020, where they could afford more space and be closer to his parents.

During his time in San Francisco, Van Arsdale and his brother had been making chocolate in their garage and giving bars to friends and family. While walking in his North Seattle neighborhood in April of last year, he happened upon an unoccupied storefront that had room for chocolate production. He leased the space, built it out and founded Spinnaker Chocolate in October.

His neighbors were early customers. But reaching a broader clientele online has been harder.

The pandemic pushed a ton of businesses online and its now more expensive than ever to run any amount of advertising, he said. Overall, the hardest challenge has been spreading awareness of our brand.

Freelance designer Emma Gage, 26, was overwhelmed at first when she lost her job right after the coronavirus struck New York. But with pandemic unemployment assistance paired with savings, she soon had the budget to try to start her own fashion label. Her brand, Melke, is gender fluid and uses natural materials.

I already had a name and logo and I also knew the general ethos of the brand, she said. The next steps were to start sourcing and sewing. Since I had the time, I decided why not?

The label has taken off and she plans a show at New York Fashion week in February. So far, the biggest problems have come from shipping snags.

Overall, being a new business owner is tough, Gage said. Im learning every day that there are a million things I dont know.

In New York City, the pandemic took a heavy toll on the restaurant industry. But it also created new opportunities for some people who had previously toiled on the fringes of the food business.

Elyssa Heller worked in the food and beverage business for 10 years, and was working for a vegan snack company at the start of the pandemic, but wanted to try out her own concept focused on Jewish comfort food.

Heller, 32, initially had success with a bagel pop-up at the popular pizzeria Paulie Gees in Brooklyn in 2020. The pop-up concept blossomed in many states as the pandemic either forced limited seating or closed dining rooms altogether.

She eventually opened a sandwich counter in March 2021, and a full-fledged restaurant, Ediths Eatery & Grocery, in January.

The New York dining scene was always very exclusive, she said. Before the pandemic, there werent vacancies and affordable rent options. Someone like me that didnt have a name in the restaurant space normally wouldnt have access to the talent I was able to hire.

Her biggest challenges now are what any restaurant is facing: keeping diners safe and making them feel comfortable eating out and dealing with ever-changing pandemic rules.

Its just a day of problem-solving every single day, its just a new reality, she said.

___

AP Economics Writer Christopher Rugaber in Washington contributed.
Farrell Rosenberg (Law '11) is a licensed attorney in Indiana, specializing in international criminal law (ICL), reparations, and genocide prevention. She spent a decade working in ICL, beginning at the International Criminal Tribunal where she assisted the Trial Chamber at the pre-trial stage on the Prosecutor v. Ratko Mladic case. She then moved to the International Criminal Court (ICC), first in the Appeals Chamber where she worked on the ICCs first judgment on reparations in the Lubanga case. She then continued her focus on reparations by leading the legal work at the ICC Trust Fund for Victims. In this role, she designed the Courts first reparations beneficiary eligibility screening systems, conducted harm assessments and victim consultations for purposes of reparations design and implementation planning, and oversaw the implementation of the first reparations to beneficiaries in the ICCs history. She spent extensive time working directly with victims of atrocity crimes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, and Mali.

Upon returning to the US, she served as the Senior Advisor for the Center for the Prevention of Genocide at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, where she was the lead author for the report series, Practical Prevention: How the Genocide Conventions Obligation to Prevent Applies to Burma and led the Centers legal work on the situations in Myanmar (Burma) and Xinjiang, China.

Currently, Farrell Rosenberg works as a legal consultant, advising a number of NGOs and victim groups on legal and policy issues related to atrocity crimes and conflict situations. In this role, she has published reports, legal analyses, and policy papers, as well as participated in public panels, seminars, and events, related to the Rohingya, the Uyghurs, the International Court of Justice, and other international justice mechanisms. She is also, on a consultant basis, the Senior Legal and Policy Advisor for the Red Lines Initiative, recently initiated by the Mukwege Foundation together with 2018 Nobel Peace Laureate Dr. Denis Mukwege, which seeks to create an international convention for the elimination of sexual violence as a method of warfare.
Rating agency Standard and Poors (S&P) said can acquire Neelachal Ispat Nigam Ltd (NINL) without sacrificing rating headroom due to deleveraging over the past 18 months and strong cash flow from high steel prices.
Sean Penn was seen leaving a liquor store in Malibu, California on Wednesday, amid a recent controversy over his recent remarks that American men have 'become quite feminized' in contemporary culture.

The Academy Award-winning actor, 61, donned a navy blue jacket over a white button-up top with khaki pants and brown sneakers as he made his way out of the establishment in the luxe beach enclave of Southern California.

The Milk star donned glasses and a face mask on the sunny winter day with his brown locks combed up.

The latest: Sean Penn, 61, was seen leaving a liquor store in Malibu, California on Wednesday, amid a recent controversy over his recent remarks that American men have 'become quite feminized' in contemporary culture

Penn generated controversy with his recent remarks on gender during a chat with The Independent last month alongside his daughter Dylan, 30.

'I think that men have, in my view, become quite feminized,' he said. 'I have these very strong women in my life who do not take masculinity as a sign of oppression toward them. There are a lot of, I think, cowardly genes that lead to people surrendering their jeans and putting on a skirt.'

The Oscar-winning actor was following up on remarks he made to a newspaper January 14, in which he said he 'believes that men in American culture have become wildly feminized.

'I dont think that being a brute or having insensitivity or disrespect for women is anything to do with masculinity, or ever did. But I dont think that [in order] to be fair to women, we should become them.'

Penn donned a navy blue jacket over a white button-up top with khaki pants and brown sneakers as he made his way out of the establishment

Penn generated controversy with his recent remarks on gender, with actress Thandiwe Newton among those who were critical of his comments

Among the people critical of him was actress Thandiwe Newton, 49, who took to Twitter to vent her disapproval of Penn's comments.

'Dude what are you SAY-ING?? Like for REAL?' she tweeted Sunday, with a link to a story about Penn's remarks. 'Youre a jibbering FOOL. MF you used to be sexy but now youre just tragic.'

The Westworld star noted the presence of Penn's daughter Dylan in the joint interview, writing, 'In front of your daughter!? That poor little mite.

'Thank God her Mums so dope,' the London native said in reference to Penn's ex-wife Robin Wright.

'Please stop ruining the brilliance of Licorice Pizza with this nonsense,' Newton said, referring to his role in the film as Jack Holden.
Washington: Australias announcement that scientists had confirmed the final resting place of Captain James Cooks most famous ship has been vehemently disputed by archaeologists in Rhode Island, where the shipwreck lies.

The Australian National Maritime Museum announced the breakthrough on Thursday (AEST) that a wreck in Newport Harbour, off the coast of Rhode Island, was the long-lost HMB Endeavour.

A pre-visualisational digital model of Lieutenant James Cooks vessel the Endeavour. Credit:Deep Dive

I am satisfied that this is the final resting place of one of the most important and contentious vessels in Australias maritime history, said chief executive and director Kevin Sumption.

But the announcement immediately sparked a furious response from the Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project (RIMAP), which is the lead partner in the search.
Last week, Gov. Glenn Youngkin began touting his new Help Education hotline. Its an email address, helpeducation@governor.virginia.gov, by which parents can directly report to Youngkin schoolteachers who discuss critical race theory or any other inherently divisive concept in classrooms.

Since writing about that Sunday, Ive been dying to learn the juicy details from tattles the governor has received on teachers. But alas, it appears the Youngkin administration intends to keep them under wraps.

For this bit of timely news we can thank Margaret Thornton, a Princeton University education researcher who grew up in Shawsville. She earned a doctorate from the University of Virginia, and now shes furthering her career in the Ivy League.

Shortly after the governor announced the tip line, Thornton sought copies of emails to it, under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. She emailed that request Jan. 26.

Youngkins office replied. And Thornton tweeted an image of the reply Wednesday to the universe.

The requested records are being entirely withheld pursuant to Section 2.2-3705 as working papers and correspondence of the Office of the Governor, the reply reads. (Roanoke Times reporter Luke Weir received the same response.)

And that suggests none of us are ever going to see all the dirt Youngkins snitch line is uncovering. So much for transparency, huh?

To be clear, nothing in state law prohibits the release of those tips. The governors office is allowed to release them. But the law also allows him to withhold them, under one of many exceptions to Virginias FOIA.

And it looks like thats what Youngkin has elected to do. (Wednesday afternoon I sought clarification from the governors spokesman, Macaulay Porter. But he did not reply by deadline.)

Fortunately, I have obtained one of the emails sent to the tip line. Its a charmer from Thelma Atwell Miller in Rural Retreat. Thoughtfully, she copied yours truly on her tip. And like Youngkin, Im under no obligation to conceal it from the public. He might not reveal it, but I will.

Miller snitched on a male Yankee schoolteacher who taught her more than half a century ago.

As a junior in a rural Virginia high school, I encountered my first New England native teacher. The ink was barely dry on his degree so we expected nothing, Miller wrote the governor.

However, we experienced a wonderful year of learning in his U.S. History class. Being from way up yonder, he did not know he was supposed to teach how much slaves loved their owners. His teaching incorporated truth, deductive thinking skills, common sense, and fine manners.

I hope you will not try to find him now (55 years later) to punish him for causing our small rural minds to accept divisive theories of honesty in teaching.

I am in prayer for our schools, students, and teachers.

Thats a heck of a tip, dont you think? The unnamed teacher to whom Miller referred might still be alive, and in his 80s. Whether Richmond has issued an all-points bulletin for him remains unclear.

That was the singular email I got addressed to the governor. But I got plenty of others about his tip line, and the column generated 140 online comments, too.

Those emails didnt laud the the snitch line. Consider a missive from Marilynne Jensen,CQ an unrepentant liberal who lives in Roanoke County.

She grew up in Western Virginia but departed years ago for California. Jensens here now because her sister, Jami Poff (a retired teacher who also lives in Roanoke County), persuaded Jensen to move back.

I loved your column on Youngkins attempt to vilify teachers with his Tattle on Teachers Hotline, Jensen wrote.  I was devastated by his election by such a narrow margin.

It sounds like shes also peeved at Poff, for selling Jensen on the move back to Virginia. The commonwealth is colder and not as blue as her sister led Jensen to believe, Jensen added.

The next one was from Michael Ramsey, president emeritus of Roanokes Public Library Foundation.

Our own version of Chairman Mao wants to micromanage public education by inciting people to follow him down a road to nowhere, Ramsey wrote. He is like a magician who spends time directing your attention away from what he really wants to do: govern by edict.

Ramsey added that nobody in Virginia will be well-educated as long as we are scrapping over which books our children should not read, or defending teachers from attacks by parents who are not involved in their childrens education. I hope your column will help derail his efforts to fix what aint broke.

Rick Fell of Blacksburg spent 386 words decrying Youngkins tip line, which he called a move designed solely to pander to the misinformed Republican Right Wing for political gain, to say nothing of its negative impact on education.

Echoing recent remarks from President Joe Biden, Fell also asked what do Republicans stand for?

He answered with eight items. Heres one: Republicans stand for creating divisiveness within the country through such tactics as [Critical Race Theory] misinformation, Fell wrote.

Probably the furthest-looking response came in an online comment from Anne Lusby-Denham CQ of Roanoke.

Youngkin is doing what many politicians are known for: divide and conquer. And strangely he acts like he wants to end divisiveness but he is really creating more, she wrote.

Quite honestly a big problem is who will want to teach when every word a teacher says can be used against them and they can be made into criminals for speaking about what has actually happened in our country?

Thats a good question. Heres another:

How will Virginians ever be able to honestly gauge whether theres an actual problem with political indoctrination by teachers in Virginia public schools  if all the tips from Youngkins tattle-on-teachers line are kept top-secret?
NAIROBI, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The enhanced protection of African wetlands is key to boosting the resilience of local communities in the face of climatic shocks, poverty and food insecurity, a green lobby said Tuesday.

Mithika Mwenda, the executive director of Nairobi-based Pan African Climate Justice Alliance, said the continent's ability to sustain green and inclusive growth, peace and stability hinges on conservation of its vast wetlands.

"Wetlands have economic potential besides mitigating the negative impacts of flooding, scarcity of water and soil erosion. They are also hubs for eco-tourism," Mwenda said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

He said the theme of this year's World Wetlands Day, "Wetlands Action for People and Nature," underscores their critical role in the survival of African rural communities, which are already grappling with an escalating climate crisis.

According to Mwenda, wetlands have always acted as carbon sinks besides facilitating water purification while acting as home to iconic species that are part of Africa's heritage.

He called for enactment of policies and legislation that promotes conservation of these vital ecosystems amid myriad threats like human encroachment and over-exploitation.

Mwenda said that improved land use practices are key to halting pollution of wetlands, and enhancing their ability to provide crucial ecosystem services like air and water purification.

World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on February 2. 
A group of teachers, firefighters, nurses, police, ambulance officers, and resource sector workers held a rally against COVID-19 vaccine mandates in Brisbane, Australia, on Feb. 2, 2022. (Screenshot by The Epoch Times)

Teachers, Firefighters, Police, Nurses Push Back Against Vaccine Mandates in Australia

Union says teachers have been bullied, coerced into getting vaccinated, and some feel suicidal.

A group of Australian teachers, firefighters, police and ambulance officers, nurses, correctional officers, and military veterans are pushing back against COVID-19 vaccine mandates that are forcing many out of their jobs serving their communities. Meanwhile, a teachers union in the state of Queensland has said school staff experienced bullying by coworkers for not getting vaccinated.

The group, whose spokesperson said it represented around 7,000 public service professionals, gathered at King George Square in Brisbane on Feb. 2 to march towards the state Parliament, vowing to return in two weeks to let those in power know the Queensland state governments vaccine mandates are hurting not just themselves but the communities they serve.

We are here to serve the community. Its not like were a little corporate business whos going to lose profit and shareholders. The roles that we take serve the community. So its not just us that are impacted its the community as well, Helena, from the United Services Front movement, told The Epoch Times.

Thats the whole point of the United Services [Front movement] getting together, is to bring this message forward that, actually, these mandates, whilst they might be taking peoples employment, they actually are taking people who serve the community out of the community.

So whos going to be there to serve the community when these people cannot work despite being healthy and willing and ready and able and wanting to go back to the jobs that they love? she said.

A group of teachers, firefighters, nurses, police, ambulance officers, and resource sector workers held a rally against COVID-19 vaccine mandates in Brisbane, Australia, on Feb. 2, 2022. (Screenshot by The Epoch Times)

Wearing colours to represent their industriesyellow for teachers, red for firefighters, blue for police, green for ambulance officers, white for nurses, light blue for correctional services, and orange for the mining and resource sectorthe group gathered to send the message to One William Street, the head offices of the Queensland state government, that theres probably a lot more of us than what they would care to admit.

Helena said the various public service sector professionals formed a united front in a bid to avoid harmful anti-vaccination labels. Theyre a group comprised of a mix of those who dont want the COVID-19 vaccines and those whove been vaccinated but dont support mandates, she said.

By uniting as one group, we are able to show who we are, and were able to show that we are here and we are ready to work and that we are one great big support network, Helena said.

Senator Vows to Oppose All Government Bills Until Freedom is Restored

Queensland One Nation Sen. Malcolm Roberts, who marched with the protesters on Feb. 2, said the state government cant ignore the significant amount of people who are against the vaccine mandates.

Politicians tell us we need to live with the virus but are keeping divisive vaccine mandates. These mandates are locking out desperately needed emergency service personnel and teachers from their jobs during a chronic labour shortage, he told The Epoch Times on Feb. 3.

Wednesdays anti-mandate march to Queensland Parliament with firies, teachers, and emergency services personnel shows that the Premier cant continue to ignore the significant population, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, who disagree with the vaccine mandates.

Speaking at the rally, Roberts vowed that he and Sen. Pauline Hanson would vote against every piece of government legislation until all COVID-19 mandates were lifted.

We will continue to support you, Pauline and I. We will continue to support you. We will oppose all government legislation in the federal Parliament until freedom is restored, Roberts said.

Senator Malcolm Roberts debates the Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Relief So Working Australians Keep More Of Their Money) Bill 2019 in the Senate at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on July 4, 2019. (Tracey Nearmy/Getty Images)

Roberts urged the crowd to remember what he said were the federal and state governments hypocrisy, contradictions of facts, lies, and corruption when they go to vote.

There is no pandemic of deaths. This is about coercion and control, and its about money for big companies. So what we need to do is, everyone here, including me, is responsible for this because we have voted either Liberal or Labor forever, he said.

They take us for granted, and Parliaments these days do not hold governments accountable. They dont serve the people. They work for the parties and their power brokers, and their major sponsors and donors. So at the next election, state or federal, think about that. Put the majors last, put the minor parties first.

Teachers Allegedly Bullied By Coworkers

The rally was also attended by Red Union, which has represented teachers, nurses, professional drivers, medical professionals, police, and independent workers who have lost their jobs due to the vaccine mandates.

Tracy Tully, secretary for the Teachers Professional Association of Queensland (TPAQ), a Red Union member, previously told The Epoch Times their members were experiencing high levels of anxiety as a result of the state Department of Educations handling of the vaccination process.

Teachers are experiencing debilitating emails daily, with evidence pouring into the TPAQ by the hundreds every day. A regular feature for teachers is the endless emails advising theyre suspended, reinstated the next day, only to be suspended yet again the following day on so on, Tully said.

Students attend a class at Alexandria Park Community School in Sydney, Australia, on May 4, 2016. (AAP Image/Paul Miller)

Tully said there had been a pattern of emails and never-ending phone calls going on for 10 days that left school staff utterly overwhelmed, drained, and confused.

She said that teachers and principals who were supportive of the vaccine mandates had allegedly been bullying staff members prior to the end of the 2021 school year.

Add to the mix workplace bullying at heightened levels with taunts from fellow teachers and principals last year openly laughing at and ridiculing their peers about how theyll lose their jobs for not getting vaccinated. In one case, a principal erected a DO NOT ENTER sign above a teachers classroom door, Tully said.

Theres no telling what effect that action had on the young and vulnerable students inside the room being taught by the teacher. This is simply not good enough; we have transgressed back to the early 1900s with alarming behaviours.

Union Says Teachers Feeling Suicidal

Red Union has been holding regular Zoom conferences to provide support to teachers and school staff as they navigate the difficult terrain of being suspended, first with pay, then later without pay, due to the vaccine mandates.

Employees have felt coerced into being vaccinated to keep their careers and even their marriages have disintegrated under the burden, Tully said.

The union secretary is concerned about the well-being of those teachers who got vaccinated to save their marriages and jobs and the flow-on effect it might have on students in the classroom.

I hear daily that [Queensland Department of Education] staff affected in this way have become severely depressed, and some have expressed suicide ideation, she said. These teachers will now stand in front of children with diminished mental and emotional well-being.

A spokesperson for the Department of Education previously told The Epoch Times that it took the well-being of its employees seriously and was providing free, confidential counselling to staff through its Employee Assistance Program.

Queensland students and school staff have shown incredible strength and resilience throughout this pandemic, and they will continue to do so, the spokesperson said.

State Denies Vaccine Mandate Staff Shortage Despite Heavily Recruiting

The Queensland government has denied that the vaccine mandates led to a staff shortage that contributed to the delay of the start of the 2022 school year despite publicly advertising that there is a high demand for school and early childhood education staff.

Instead, the state cited the surging COVID-19 case numbers, caused by the Omicron variant of the novel coronavirus, when it announced the new school year would be delayed by two weeks until Feb. 7, when the peak of the wave was predicted to have passed.

According to Tully, the education department has been desperate to recruit overseas teachers and even students still studying to fill workforce gaps.

[The Department of Education] is desperately seeking to supply a reserve force of qualified and registered teachers to replace those suspended due to vaccine mandates by recruiting from other states and overseas, Tully said.

Our members in management have advised us theyre appointing first, second-, and third-year student teachers from universities promoted to trainees without any thought to the necessity for qualified supervision and the time and numbers required to ensure that this strategy is not just a band-aid to a problem that has been around for decades and growing swiftly at an alarming rate.

A Queensland government website seems to support Tullys claim, stating: There is high demand for teachers and educators in a range of education specialisations and in our rural and remote communities across Queensland.

Whether you are an experienced career changer looking for a rewarding change or an eager school leaver up for a rural or remote adventure, there are a range of exciting benefits on offer. You could be one of the people our young people need, the website states.

The government website further states that the early childhood education sector was expanding and people willing to get the right qualification to work at services while they study were in demand.

People queue to receive a Covid-19 vaccine at a Bunnings hardware store in Brisbane, Australia, on Oct. 16, 2021. (Dan Peled/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Department of Education previously told The Epoch Times there was a high rate of vaccination amongst its school-based staff and that the state had enough of a reserve workforce to ensure continuity of education in Queensland schools.

The Department is very pleased at the high vaccination rate among those impacted by the health direction. State-wide, around 98 percent of state school teachers have indicated that they are fully vaccinated. The Department is continuing to work with remaining staff to confirm their vaccination status, the spokesperson went on to say.

State-wide, the department has access to approximately 5,000 fully vaccinated relief teachers, who are ready to work in state schools if required.

However, Tully said that principals have informed the union that many teachers and teacher aides with specialised training to work with special needs students who need help to use the bathroom, to eat, or to take medication have also been suspended.

In the absence of these expert support staff, these students will be required to remain at home, she said.

The United Services Front plans to hold another rally in Brisbane on Feb. 23.
By Renju Jose

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Iron ore magnate Andrew Forrest said on Thursday he is launching criminal proceedings against Meta Platform Inc's Facebook in an Australian court, alleging that it breached anti-money laundering laws and its platform is used to scam Australians.

Forrest, Australia's richest man and chairman of Fortescue Metals Group, said he was taking the action to stop people losing money to clickbait advertising scams, such as ones using his image to promote cryptocurrency schemes.

The lawsuit filed by Forrest in the Magistrates Court of Western Australia alleges Facebook "failed to create controls or a corporate culture to prevent its systems being used to commit crime."

It also alleges Facebook was criminally reckless by not taking sufficient steps to stop criminals from using its social media platform to send scam advertisements to defraud Australian users.

The lawsuit comes after Forrest said he made several requests asking Facebook to prevent his image from being used to promote investment plans, including in an open letter to Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg in November 2019.

Facebook, which changed its name to Meta last year, declined to comment on the lawsuit but said that in general it has always taken a "multifaceted approach" to stop such ads appearing and had blocked advertisers.

"We're committed to keeping these people off our platform," a spokesperson for Meta said in an emailed statement.

Some advertisements, which have used Forrest's image and claimed to promote cryptocurrency investment schemes, have appeared on Facebook since March 2019, the lawsuit said.

"This action is being taken on behalf of those everyday Australians  Mums and Dads, Grans and Grandads  who work all their lives to gather their savings and to ensure those savings aren't swindled away by scammers," Forrest said in a statement.

Under Australian law, a private prosecution of a foreign corporation for alleged offences under the Commonwealth Criminal Code requires the consent of the country's attorney general.

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"The Attorney-General has given her consent to the private prosecution against Facebook in relation to alleged offences under subsection 400.7(2) of the Criminal Code," said Steven Lewis, principal of Mark O'Brien Legal, which will represent Forrest in the case.

The office of Attorney General Michaelia Cash did not immediately respond to a request seeking comment.

If Facebook is found guilty, it will face a maximum penalty of A$126,000 ($90,000) on each of three charges, Lewis said.

An initial hearing has been set for March 28, Forrest said.

In September last year, Forrest filed a separate civil case against Facebook in the Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo.

Facebook has been under pressure in Australia after disagreeing initially with a new law that required it and Google to pay for links to media companies' content.

($1 = 1.4035 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by Renju Jose, additional reporting by Byron Kaye; editing by Richard Pullin)
Check attractive price drops on iPhone 13, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini on Flipkart and iStore India.

iPhone 13 gets a price drop by Rs. 5,000 in India on Flipkart. The device is currently available at 74,900. The iPhone 13 originally debuted at 79,900, however, deals and discounts on this phone have made it a bit cheaper. Buyers can also avail additional discount of up to Rs. 18,850 on exchange along with cashback and bank offers. The offer is applicable on all the storage variants of iPhone 13 i.e, 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants. Additionally iStore India is also giving away exciting trade in value on eligible smartphones or iPhones. Here are all the deals and discounts available on iPhone 13.

Flipkart Deals and discounts on iPhone 13:

Flipkart is offering attractive discounts and deals on the purchase of iPhone 13. The e-commerce platform is giving away instant discount of upto 5000 along with additional exchange offer of upto 18,850, cashback and bank offers on the purchase of iPhone 13. The iPhone 13 128 GB is available at Rs, 74,900 while 256 GB is available at a price of Rs. 84,900 and 512 GB variant is priced at Rs. 1,04,900.

Moreover, buyers can get the iPhone 13 as low as 56,050 by opting for exchange. The exchange value will be determined based on the older smartphone model.

iStore India offers on iPhone 13:

The Apple India store is offering the iPhone 13 for trade-in and other offers that slash the price of iPhone 13 to nearly Rs. 51,000. The trade-in is applicable on various iPhone models starting with iPhone SE first generation to iPhone 6 and above. Apple is giving away Rs. 31,120 trade-in value on iPhone 12 whereas iPhone 11 Pro Max is getting Rs. 36,485 exchange value. iPhone XR can give you Rs. 15,685 in exchange.

There are additional offers available on the credit cards of ICICI Bank, Kotak Bank and SBI cards. Buyers can get up to Rs. 6,000 cashback on purchase of iPhone 13.
Chronic illness will no doubt adversely impact the quality of life and educational outcomes of some of my brightest students, debilitate their caregivers, and exacerbate the teacher shortage, a Detroit Public School Community District (DPSCD) educator told the World Socialist Web Site.

Alana indicated why so many teachers, parents and students are horrified by the insistence of DPSCD, the largest district in Michigan, that schools must reopen face-to-face. DPSCD was forced to close for in-person learning on December 16 as the citywide test positivity rate hit a staggering 40 percent. The district was one of the only major cities to delay the reopening of schools throughout January during the ongoing Omicron surge of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths.

With buildings closed, case rates in the hard-hit city dropped to 20 percent. While the drop in cases was a vindication of the need to keep schools closed and ramp up remote learning, DPSCD is reversing course and scheduled reopening this week, only interrupted by a snow storm. Automakers throughout the region are struggling to keep assembly lines running and Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Mayor Mike Duggan have applied maximum pressure on schools to stay open so parents can work.

Only 36 percent of Detroit residents have received two doses of vaccine, which guarantees that reopening schools and workplaces will only bring more death and suffering. As Omicron continues to rampage, opposition to in-person schools has grown.

Alana commented, Until we know more about the trajectory of Long COVID, we cannot in good faith claim that in-person learning is safe. I worry about these children. They suffer trauma. What if they bring it home to their caregivers and they dont recover? These families often rely on the grandparents. If they are incapacitated, its a big problem.

Before the pandemic, the schools were already a war zone. This has made mental health much worse. But were told to get back to business as usual, thats really traumatizing. Children are overwhelmed, feeling they have to live up to expectations. Grades are awful this year. They dont understand how to handle it all.

The whole vaccination campaign was not well done. The way they touted the vaccine actually created skepticism. And all kids arent vaccinated. But a country as large as China did much better. They have a collective mentality, unlike the individualism we have that is so rampant.

Commenting on the wave of struggles to keep schools closed, which the unions have opposed and sought to isolate, Alana said, I was so happy to see the number of student walkouts. For them to do this, and on such a big scale, is amazing. I feel underrepresented by my union. Theres been no opposition by the union at all. Every teacher knows this is not safe, theres not one in the DPSCD that believes they are safe!

Asked about the conditions under which she is teaching, Alana said, I taught virtually all last year, and although I felt uneasy about it, returned in-person this fall. In public education, we somewhat accept empty promises for what they are, but when it comes to the safety of students and staff, empty promises are unacceptable.

I was forced to change classrooms to a smaller classroom at the beginning of the year. The sign on my door once said the capacity was 16, and then one day there was a new poster which said 25. As the year has progressed and new enrollments trickled in, somehow I now have classes of 30, which are cramped even by pre-COVID standards.

I have two working windows in my classroom. I requested an air purifier, but never received one. Why do you even need to request it? They should just come into each room and give you one. We have an older building and the ventilation is poor.

There are many students who come to school sick. There is a huge lack of transparency in case reports; students and staff receive no notification of positive cases in the building. The only way of monitoring cases is by looking at the weekly data on the districts website, which is somehow always less than the number of teachers out. A letter is sent home to just the students in the classroom where there is a positive case.

Alana detailed the impact on her and many other educators, Since I see multiple classes, I have had multiple exposures which I was never notified of. I had the misfortune of catching COVID early in the pandemic, and have had chronic health issues from Long COVID since then.

My health issues with Long COVID have gotten much worse through the course of the year, and I am terrified to go back into the classroom. I felt a weird anxiety, fatigue, insomnia and migraines for awhile. Now Ive got chronic infections that dont go away. The way my brain works feels much less efficient now. Even in the medical field, doctors dont often recognize or understand Long COVID.

Long COVID is now a big part of the labor shortage, with 1.6 million full-time workers out of work due to symptoms and 19 million are affected. Yet they sweep it under the rug! They claim it is mild.

The media has grossly downplayed the severity and prevalence of Long COVID and has painted it as temporary, but persistent symptoms, rather than a chronic illness. It is more akin to HIV than chronic fatigue. This is deeply concerning, not only for myself, but the future health of my students and colleagues.

The working class and youth are bearing the weight of the world on our shoulders. We have sacrificed our health, safety, security, well-being, and our lives to uphold a system which continues to deny our pain and suffering, and tells us that the only cure is the disease itself. It is of great urgency to speak our truths, and give ourselves permission to heal, not just as individuals, but as a society. We as a people must come to a consensus between what we wish we had, and what we cannot allow.

Risking the lives of our youth and their families is something we must no longer allow.

For information on joining the Educators Rank-and-File Safety Committees or forming a committee in your area, contact the WSWS.
Game of Thrones star John Bradley says the writers of the hit show couldnt win when deciding how to end the series.

The actor, who plays bumbling Samwell Tarly, said the show had almost meant too much to some fans, meaning they would never be satisfied with the outcome.

The multi-award-winning HBO show, chronicling the bloody struggle for the Iron Throne, lasted for eight series, but its ending left some viewers disappointed.

We almost couldnt win. It almost meant too much to people for them to really ever be satisfied

It was highly unlikely that we were ever going to please everybody, Bradley told Variety.

Chances are we were going to please a fraction of people.

There are so many different permutations to it and if wed have gone with any one of these then everyone would have been unhappy about that one.

We almost couldnt win. It almost meant too much to people for them to really ever be satisfied.

Kit Harington (Chris J Ratclife/PA)

Bradley, who appeared alongside Kit Haringtons Jon Snow for most of the series, said he hoped fans would be able to re-evaluate Game Of Thrones once wounds have healed a little bit.

(The writers) did get a lot of criticism for it and people were putting their ability into dispute.

You feel like saying they were still in charge (when) you loved it and when you thought it was the best thing youd ever seen.

All the way along and all the bits you remember, none of them would have happened if they hadnt been in control. So maybe theyre due a bit of a break.

It comes ahead of the opening of the only officially-licensed Game of Thrones Studio Tour attraction in Northern Ireland.

The 40 million venue in Co Down has been described by Stormont Economy Minister, Gordon Lyons, as game-changing for the region.

The series was mostly filmed on location and in studios across the area and has brought visitors from across the world even years after the finale aired in 2019.

A HBO spin-off series, House Of The Dragon, starring Matt Smith, Olivia Cooke and Rhys Ifans has also begun production.

The series, based on George RR Martins Fire & Blood and set 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, tells the story of House Targaryen.
Sen. Josh Hawley

Greg Nash/The Hill/Bloomberg via Getty

The White House isn't mincing words after Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, questioned the Biden administration's support for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions between the European country, NATO and Russia.

White House officials on Wednesday accused the lawmaker of "parroting Russian talking points" in a letter he sent to Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

"It is not clear that Ukraine's accession would serve U.S. interests," Hawley wrote in the letter, dated Tuesday. "Indeed, deteriorating conditions in the global security environment caution otherwise."

NATO, a military alliance originally made up of 12 countries to counter the Soviet Union, has expanded since the end of the Cold War to include 30 members, which is deeply upsetting to Russia because of its goal to maintain influence in the region.

RELATED: Simon & Schuster Cancels Sen. Josh Hawley's Book 'After His Role' in Inciting Capitol Riot

In 2008, NATO announced that Ukraine could become a member once it met certain standards, which it declared as a priority in 2017.

While Ukraine's status with NATO is pending  and even as leading countries like the U.S. are in no rush to officially accept the country  members of the alliance are inclined to support Ukraine, counter Russian aggression and bolster NATO's defenses to Ukraine's west by sending weapons and troops to the region as Russia takes a series of aggressive steps near the border.

American officials have said Russia's ultimate goal is still uncertain, though President Joe Biden has warned Russian President Vladimir Putin against an invasion.

Elsewhere in his letter on Tuesday, which argues that China is a more relevant threat to the U.S., Hawley wrote that American support for Ukraine membership "defies these realities."

Hawley wrote that he supports assisting Ukraine in defending itself against Russia but also says, "our interest is not so strong, however, as to justify committing the United States to go to war with Russia over Ukraine's fate."

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RELATED: Sen. Josh Hawley and His Wife Launch Podcast About Faith and Family to Try and Show Another Side of Themselves

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki holds the daily press briefing in the Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House in Washington, DC, February 3, 2021

SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki

Asked about the letter during Wednesday's press briefing, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki suggested Hawley was repeating Russian propaganda.

"Well, if you are just digesting Russian misinformation and parroting Russian talking points, you are not aligned with long-standing, bipartisan American values," she told reporters.

Those values, she continued, include standing up for "the sovereignty of countries like Ukraine," as well as others, and their "right to choose their own alliances and also to stand against very clearly the efforts  or attempts, or potential attempts  by any country to invade and take territory of another country."

RELATED: Press Secretary Jen Psaki Responds to Fox News Reporter's Question About 'Pandemic of the Unvaccinated'

"That applies to Sen. Hawley," Psaki added, "but it also applies to others who may be parroting the talking points of Russian propagandist leaders."

Biden on Wednesday ordered the deployment of 3,000 troops to Europe after addressing the tension with Russia over Ukraine during a press conference earlier this month.

"Russia will be held accountable if it invades," he told reporters then. "If they actually do what they're capable of doing with the forces amassed on the border, it is going to be a disaster for Russia  our allies and partners are ready to impose severe costs and significant harm on Russia and the Russian economy."
Groundhog Day brought a winter storm to Waco and much of the central United States on Wednesday, closing schools and offices, canceling flights and prompting officials to warn motorists to stay off roads.

A band of freezing rain and sleet from the northwest was approaching Waco late Wednesday afternoon, and the National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for the Waco area and a large swath of the state from midnight to 6 p.m. Thursday.

No school Thursday for most Waco-area districts Due to freezing weather and precipitation, most Waco-area and McLennan County school districts have canceled school for Thursday. Here's the list.

The Weather Service predicted a transition from rain to freezing rain and sleet overnight, leading to hazardous road conditions and possible tree damages and power outages.

Between midnight and 6 p.m. Thursday, ice accumulations could range from 0.1 to 0.25 inches, while a half inch of sleet could accumulate, according the advisory.

Most area school districts on Wednesday announced Thursday closings. They include Waco, Midway, McGregor, Robinson, Lorena, La Vega and Connally ISDs as well as Rapoport Academy.

In addition, Baylor University will shift to online classes Thursday and Friday and telework for staff. Texas State Technical College will also shift to virtual learning Thursday.

Arriving and departing flights at Waco Regional Airport were canceled late Wednesday and through mid-Thursday afternoon, as thousands of other flights across the country were canceled because of inclement weather.

The McLennan County Courthouse and city offices will close Thursday. Residents with Thursday and Friday garbage pickup are advised to leave their carts at the curb as usual, and crews will assess road conditions and decide whether to have a make-up collection day Saturday.

The city of Waco on Wednesday opened a warming center at Dewey Community Center, to be open until Thursday evening.

Meanwhile, The Salvation Army Community Kitchen at 300 Webster Ave. is open as a daytime warming center, and the mens shelter is adding cots in the kitchen area for the night.

The blast of frigid weather, which began arriving Tuesday night, put a long stretch of states from New Mexico and Colorado to Maine under winter storm warnings and watches. On Wednesday morning, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan saw freezing rain, sleet and snow exceeding a foot in some places.

In Texas, the storm arrived less than a year after the winter freeze disaster of February 2021, which paralyzed much of the statewide grid, left many customers without power for days and led to the deaths of some 246 people.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which manages the grid, issued a winter weather watch through Sunday, saying it expects high energy demand through the duration of the cold front. But even with sleet, snow and ice predicted for a large swath of the state, ERCOT says it expects to have sufficient power generation to meet the anticipated demand.

In a press release from Texas A&M University, State Climatologist John Nielsen-Gammon said the rare confluence of factors that caused the February 2021 storm are not likely to repeat themselves this year, and subzero temperatures are not expected.

We usually only get such cold winter storms only a few times every century, Nielsen-Gammon said. Theres only about a 2 percent chance every year of it occurring.

Temperatures in Waco are expected to drop to 26 overnight Wednesday, followed by a high of 27 on Thursday, with freezing rain and sleet mostly before 3 p.m. Precipitation is forecast to end by Thursday night, when the forecast low is 19, with wind chill values of 5 to 10 degrees.

The forecast calls for a high of 35 Friday, dropping to 17 Friday night. A high of 39 is expected Saturday, dropping to 20 overnight.
At present the United States government is trying to force the European members of NATO to participate in aggressive operations in connection with the coup which it carried out in Ukraine.

by John Scales Avery

Recent threats of war over Ukraine

Russia understandably fears the eastard expansion of NATO. Recently NATO countries, led by the United States, have supplied arms to Ukraine. There is a threat that the tensions building up in the region will lead to war. Such a development would be catastrophic for the entire world. Against this backdrop, let us examine the question of NATO's illegality.

Violation of the UN Charter and the Nuremberg Principles

In recent years, participation in NATO has made European countries accomplices in US efforts to achieve global hegemony by means of military force, in violation of international law, and especially in violation of the UN Charter, the Nuremberg Principles.

Former UN Assistant Secretary General Hans Christof von Sponeck used the following words to express his opinion that NATO now violates the UN Charter and international law: In the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty, the Charter of the United Nations was declared to be NATO's legally binding framework. However, the United-Nations monopoly of the use of force, especially as specified in Article 51 of the Charter, was no longer accepted according to the 1999 NATO doctrine. NATO's territorial scope, until then limited to the Euro-Atlantic region, was expanded by its members to include the whole world

Article 2 of the UN Charter requires that All members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. This requirement is somewhat qualified by Article 51, which says that Nothing in the present Charter shall impair the inherent right of individual or collective self-defense if an armed attack occurs against a Member of the United Nations, until the Security Council has taken measures necessary to maintain international peace and security.

Thus, in general, war is illegal under the UN Charter. Self-defense against an armed attack is permitted, but only for a limited time, until the Security Council has had time to act. The United Nations Charter does not permit the threat or use of force in preemptive wars, or to produce regime changes, or for so-called democratization, or for the domination of regions that are rich in oil. NATO must not be a party to the threat or use of force for such illegal purposes.

In 1946, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously affirmed the principles of international law recognized by the Charter of the Nuremberg Tribunal and the judgment of the Tribunal. The General Assembly also established an International Law Commission to formalize the Nuremberg Principles. The result was a list that included Principles VI and VII, which are particularly important in the context of the illegality of NATO:

Principle VI: The crimes hereinafter set out are punishable as crimes under international law:

a Crimes against peace: (I) Planning, preparation, initiation or waging of a war of aggression or a war in violation of international treaties, agreements or assurances; (ii) Participation in a common plan or conspiracy for accomplishment of any of the acts mentioned under (I).

b War crimes: Violations of the laws and customs of war which include, but are not limited to, murder, ill treatment of prisoners of war or persons on the seas, killing of hostages, plunder of public or private property, wanton destructions of cities, towns or villages, or devastation not justified by military necessity

c. Crimes against humanity: Atrocities and offenses, including but not limited to murder, extermination, deportation, imprisonment, torture, rape or other inhumane acts committed against any civilian population, or persecutions on political, racial or religious grounds, whether or not in violation of the laws of the country where perpetrated

ci.

cii. Principle VII: Complicity in the commission of a crime against the peace, a war crime or a crime against humanity as set forth in Principle VI as a crime against international law.

Robert H. Jackson, who was the chief United States prosecutor at the Nuremberg trials, said that To initiate a war of aggression is therefore not only an international crime, it is the supreme international crime, differing from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole.

Violation of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty

At present, NATO's nuclear weapons policies violate both the spirit and the text of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty in several respects: Today there are an estimated 200 US nuclear weapons still in Europe The air forces of the nations in which they are based are regularly trained to deliver the US weapons. This nuclear sharing, as it is called, violates Articles I and II of the NPT, which forbid the transfer of nuclear weapons to non-nuclear-weapon states. It has been argued that the NPT would no longer be in force if a crisis arose, but there is nothing in the NPT saying that the treaty would not hold under all circumstances.

Article VI of the NPT requires states possessing nuclear weapon to get rid of them within a reasonable period of time. This article is violated by fact that NATO policy is guided by a Strategic Concept, which visualizes the continued use of nuclear weapons in the foreseeable future.'

The principle of no-first-use of nuclear weapons has been an extremely important safeguard over the years, but it is violated by present NATO policy, which permits the first-use of nuclear weapons in a wide variety of circumstances.

Must Europe really be dragged into a potentially catastrophic war with Russia?

At present the United States government is trying to force the European members of NATO to participate in aggressive operations in connection with the coup which it carried out in Ukraine. Europe must refuse. Click here to see more

The hubris, and reckless irresponsibility of the US government in risking a catastrophic war with Russia is almost beyond belief, but the intervention in Ukraine is only one in a long series of US interventions:

During the period from 1945 to the present, the US interfered, militarily or covertly, in the internal affairs of a large number of nations: China, 1945-49; Italy, 1947-48; Greece, 1947-49; Philippines, 1946-53; South Korea, 1945-53; Albania, 1949-53; Germany, 1950s; Iran, 1953; Guatemala, 1953-1990s; Middle East, 1956-58; Indonesia, 1957-58; British Guiana/Guyana, 1953-64; Vietnam, 1950-73; Cambodia, 1955-73; The Congo/Zaire, 1960-65; Brazil, 1961-64; Dominican Republic, 1963-66; Cuba, 1959-present; Indonesia, 1965; Chile, 1964-73; Greece, 1964-74; East Timor, 1975-present; Nicaragua, 1978-89; Grenada, 1979-84; Libya, 1981-89; Panama, 1989; Iraq, 1990-present; Afghanistan 1979-92; El Salvador, 1980-92; Haiti, 1987-94; Yugoslavia, 1999; and Afghanistan, 2001-present, Syria, 2013-present. Egypt, 2013-present.

Most of these interventions were explained to the American people as being necessary to combat communism (or more recently, terrorism), but an underlying motive was undoubtedly the desire of the ruling oligarchy to put in place governments and laws that would be favorable to the economic interests of the US and its allies. Also, the military-industrial complex needs justification for the incredibly bloated military budgets that drain desperately needed resources from social and environmental projects.

Do the people of Europe really want to participate in the madness of aggression against Russia? Of course not! What about European leaders? Why don't they follow the will of the people and free Europe from bondage to the United States? Have our leaders been bribed? Or have they been blackmailed through personal secrets, discovered by the long arm of NSA spying?
COLOMBO, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- A mobile network operator based in Sri Lanka has tested 5G infrastructure over a commercial network and recorded the highest ever Internet speed in the country, stated media reported Thursday.

Ashish Chandra, managing director and CEO of mobile network operator Airtel Sri Lanka, was quoted by Daily News as saying that live trials of 5G over a commercial network resulted in Internet speed of over 1.9 gigabytes per second.

Chandra said that Airtel Sri Lanka's existing 4G infrastructure is ready to be transitioned to 5G service. 
Big Trees build up of dry vegetation View Photos

Arnold, CA  A local group concerned over the dire conditions at Calaveras Big Trees State Park is calling for immediate action to protect the park from wildfire risk.

The Calaveras Big Trees Association (CBTA) has sent a letter [view here] to the head of Californias state parks, Armando Quintero, urging him to designate the park as a top priority. It also asks for the immediate mobilization of a cavalry of forest crews to rid the 6500-acre park of a massive build-up of dense, dry vegetation. It is the only park where the state is responsible for protecting the giant sequoias.

In our area, its not a question of if a wildfire is coming, its when its going to hit us, says Dr. Vida Kenk, President of CBTA. So, its very important we be prepared. As a result of decades of fire suppression followed by limited periodic controlled burning, there has been an excessive, unnatural accumulation of fuel over the years. It will surely devastate our precious giant sequoia groves in a catastrophic fire.

While a non-profit partner of the park, the associations main agenda is to raise funds to support educational and interpretive programs, Dr. Kenk says the need to protect the treasured trees and the public forced them to get involved. She also said, Were doing this not just for the park but also for the surrounding communities. Not only could they be in danger but if the park is lost what happens to a major tourist attraction, which helps to feed our local business. So, theres that economic aspect to our communities as well.

She notes the Park has the last two giant sequoia groves in the world untouched by fire. Over the past 18 months wildfires have destroyed up to 19 percent of the total population of giant sequoias, Dr. Kenk relayed fire scientists noted that what stopped the fires in their tracks in the Sequoia National Park and Caldor fires near South Lake Tahoe was reaching the area where it had been carefully managed, thinned and all the dry vegetation removed. Thats a teaching lesson  and why its imperative the state act with urgency to use the next few months to get Calaveras Big Trees in fighting form, she asserted.

A $7 million state wildfire resilience fund has been allocated for prescribed burns and fuel reduction over the next five years. Acknowledging that is a significant step, Dr. Kenk advised, Basically, we no longer have just a fire season. We have fires occurring throughout the year very unpredictably. The Park hasnt seen significant fire in over 100 years and is ripe for a major wildfire. We cannot wait for the state to execute a five-year plan. We need to act now to get ahead of a fire.

The work the association is calling for would require boots on the ground using machines to drag out dry vegetation and chain saws to thin the forest and clear flammable materials. She adds, Those are not only the ground duff and understory but also ladder trees leaning against sequoias, thats how crown fires get going. So, we think that sort of clean-up needs to happen now and not when the fires are already here and wreaking havoc.

Another problem according to CBTA, the park lacks year-round personnel, such as a park forester and crew, to manage its forest. In the letter, the association offers assistance in restoring the park relaying that they are open to discussing various ways to help, stating, We envision options such as using trail maintenance crews to assist with clearing, providing debris bins, and providing funding for contracted groups to do restorative and fire prevention work.

Calaveras Big Trees State Park attracts 250,000 visitors a year with its year-round recreation.
A candlelight vigil will take place Sunday in Pittsburgh to honor Peter Bernardo Spencer, a Jamaican immigrant whose shooting death in December, after being invited to a cabin by a co-worker, has amplified questions being raised about how police handle investigations of Black peoples deaths.

Pittsburgh Protests, an activist group that typically focuses on police violence against Black people, announced the family-hosted vigil on Twitter on Wednesday, urging people to join them in their call for justice over Spencers unexplained killing.

Spencers fiancee, Carmela King, said he was slain after going on the camping trip with his friend and that he was the only black individual at the camp site, according to a GoFundMe campaign launched by King.

Pennsylvania state troopers found the 29-year-old dead of apparent gunshot wounds in Venango County on Dec. 12. According to their police report, they were responding to a call about a shooting at 2:26 a.m. when they found Spencer in the front yard of a residence with apparent gunshot wounds to his body.

Troopers said they seized multiple firearms, ballistic evidence and controlled substances at the scene. The report identifies one 25-year-old suspect along with three additional identified individuals. The four were detained and questioned at the station and were all released pending additional investigation.

But nearly two months later, Spencers family is still searching for answers, and a growing number of community members are pressing officials to intensify their investigation.

New Action For: Sunday, February 6

"People's Justice for Peter Spencer: Candelight Vigil"

Highland Park PGH (Meet at Fountain)

5PM

Details: Join Peter "Bernardo" Spencer's family to honor his life & continue the call for justice.

Post Credit: .@Justice4JimJimpic.twitter.com/WFahfa6d7V  Pittsburgh Protests (@PghProtests) February 2, 2022

The Venango County District Attorneys Office said in a press release that the investigation would conclude in 4-6 weeks from the date of January 25, according to CBS Pittsburgh. Public information must be tempered with the obligation of a complete and thorough investigation.

Story continues

Nearly 100 faith and community leaders sent a letter to local and state authorities urging that the investigation be handled by state Attorney General Josh Shapiro, according to WTAE-TV.

Our voices will continue to stir and uncover and speak out until we learn what has happened to our brother, Rev. Larry Picken, the executive director of the Pennsylvania Council of Churches, said at a Wednesday press conference. His blood keeps crying out to us.

Spencers brother, Tehilah, said something about this case is different. He added, They dont want another George Floyd. They want to sweep it under the rug, he told Yahoo News.

The calls for a more thorough investigation echo ones in Connecticut, where two detectives at the Bridgeport Police Department have been suspended over their handling of two Black womens deaths.

Relatives of one of the victims, Lauren Smith-Fields, accused Bridgeport police of being racially insensitive toward their family and failing to complete a full investigation into her death.

Venango County, 80 miles north of Pittsburgh, has a 1.1% Black population out of nearly 55,000 residents, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Spencers mother, Icilda Spencer-Henry, told Jamaican newspaper The Gleaner that her son wasnt perfect, but he did not like anyone around him who did not work.

A candlelight vigil will take place Sunday to honor Jamaican immigrant Peter

He worked hard, and he was always encouraging others, motivating them to do better, she said.

He was a force of nature, Tehilah Spencer told Yahoo News. He wanted the American dream for himself. He was always trying to improve himself.

Spencers family, in their search for answers, has hired their own medical examiner, CBS Pittsburgh reported.

HuffPost has reached out to the Spencer family attorney, Paul Jubas, for further comments.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/trump-reportedly-considered-issuing-blanket-pardons-for-jan-6-rioters-before-leaving-white-house-1092703788.html

Trump Reportedly Considered Issuing Blanket Pardons for Jan. 6 Rioters Before Leaving White House

Trump Reportedly Considered Issuing Blanket Pardons for Jan. 6 Rioters Before Leaving White House

Speaking to a crowd of supporters near Houston on Saturday, former US President Donald Trump proclaimed that he would consider pardoning defendants charged in... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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Between January 6 and January 20the date of Biden's inaugurationTrump made three separate phone calls to discuss the idea of issuing a blanket pardon for rioters involved in the deadly insurrection at the US Capitol building, according to a new Politico report.Another adviser informed the outlet that Trump began to get inquisitive about how rioters may be charged criminally, as well as how much protection a blanket pardon would provide them. However, Trump's questions were met with discontent from the White House counsel's office, which "forcefully" told Trump the limits of his presidential powers. "There was a dangling threat that if he pushed too hard, [White House counsel Pat] Cipollone would leave," one adviser said.Questions also arose about how he would issue a pardon with individuals not being formally charged with a crime yet. Politico granted both ex-Trump advisers anonymity. Trump's previously unreported conversations are being made known just days after he told a crowd of supporters that he would consider such a move if he ran a successful presidential campaign in 2024. "If I run and if I win we will treat those people from January 6 fairly," Trump told rally attendees in Canoe, some 40 miles from Houston, Texas. "And if it requires pardons we will give them pardons because they are being treated so unfairly." His comments immediately received pushback from the House Select Committee probing the investigation, as well as GOP leadership. "I would not be in favor of shortening any of the sentences for any of the people who pleaded guilty to crimes," McConnell said earlier this week.

https://sputniknews.com/20220201/gop-leader-mcconnell-senate-republicans---reject-reduced-sentences-for-guilty-jan-6-rioters---1092670074.html

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As President Biden prepares to meet with New York Mayor Adams to address the yearslong surge in violent gun crime, hes taking an important, if a little late, step in acknowledging what many Americans have known for some time: We have a serious problem of rising violence in America.

Right-wing personalities and elected leaders, some in good faith and others in bad, have been sounding this alarm for a while. But its hard to cut through whats earnest and whats just exploitation. And after Trump supporters were seen violently attacking law enforcement at the U.S. Capitol last year, its increasingly hard to take their law and order pleas seriously.

In other instances, Democrats rightly mock and dismiss right-wing outrage over hyped-up culture wars and invented bogeymen  the nefarious forces behind the green M&Ms new sneakers and Minnie Mouses new pantsuit, for example.

But when it comes to crime, the left has seriously missed the mark. Perhaps Biden is trying to make up for lost time.

Violent crime in America has surged over the past few years. Murders in 2020 shot up more than 27%, and were up again last year, bringing homicide rates the country hasnt witnessed since the mid-1990s.

New York City has felt the pain, too; while the spike in murders in Americas largest city hasnt been as sharp as those in places like Philadelphia, Baltimore or Chicago, violent crime has risen acutely in the five boroughs nonetheless. In 2020, the number of shootings in New York more than doubled over 2019, and in 2021 they climbed further, to the highest figure in decades. The subways saw an especially troubling increase in mayhem.

Two recent stories paint a bleak picture. Thousands of New Yorkers and police officers flooded the streets of Midtown Manhattan last week to honor the memory of Jason Rivera, one of two officers shot during a routine domestic disturbance call. Wilbert Mora, the second murdered officer, was laid to rest Wednesday.

In a story that got less national attention, 33-year-old Jessica Britt was stabbed to death at her Queens apartment building, allegedly by her neighbor Evelyn Cruz, known to residents as the monster. Cruz was previously given a menacing charge for threatening to cut a neighbor with a razor blade in 2019, and six months earlier reportedly slashed the neck of another. She got six months behind bars and was given a conditional discharge.

With all of this in mind  and thats just a snapshot of one major city  White House press secretary Jen Psaki muddled her messaging during a podcast with her former Obama White House colleagues, claiming Fox News was operating in an alternate universe for calling Biden soft on crime. What does that even mean, right? she snarked.

But many have leveled the same complaint of Biden and Democrats, and voters are agreeing, at least according to polls. Democrats everywhere have struggled with balancing necessary and important policing and criminal justice reform with the reality that violent crime has surged.

In the summer of 2020, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser marched in lockstep with demonstrators who were shouting what had become a new slogan: Defund the police! In 2021, she proposed cutting police budgets, in line with the demands of many progressives across the country.

In New York last month, Manhattans new District Attorney, Alvin Bragg, issued a memo calling for the non-prosecution of some minor crimes and no jail or prison time for many others. Its drawn skepticism from some, including New York City Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, and pushback from others, including Democrats like Rep. Gregory Meeks.

Swimming against the current in a Democratic mayoral primary last year, former police officer Eric Adams won by promising both proactive policing and reform. Now Mayor Adams has released a 15-page Blueprint to End Gun Violence that The New York Times said was loathed by liberals.

And former Long Island Rep. Thomas Suozzi, running for governor this year, is putting crime at the top of his agenda. In new campaign ads and press conferences, he sounds a lot more like a Republican than a typical New York Democrat.

These New York Democrats understand that responsible politicians cant pretend that crime isnt a real concern for voters, or that Republicans are simply inventing it the way they do other imaginary evils. It might be true that New York City is still far safer than it was in the bad old days, but thats cold comfort for people victimized by crime or worried about being hurt.

In addition to endangering law enforcement and citizens alike, its also gifting the issue to people like Donald Trump, who will easily and effectively exploit it to his political advantage.

Its good Biden is meeting with Adams. Because theres no crime in admitting crime is real and worrisome to many voters all over the country. The more Democrats ignore it or insist its simply made up, the more Republicans will seize. And for once, theyll be right to.
New Delhi: As the poll battle for Punjab grows intense, a group of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers were allegedly attacked on Wednesday (February 2) by some anti-social elements in Pathankhot during a gathering for the upcoming assembly polls, reported ANI.

The alleged brawl left at least 4 people injured.

Punjab: Some people attacked BJP workers at a poll gathering that was to be addressed by State BJP chief & party candidate Ashwani Sharma, resulting in injuries to 4 people in Pathankot yesterday



"It shows that the administration is unable to maintain law & order," Sharma said pic.twitter.com/Zh0ZJuwtxu  ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2022

The attack allegedly took place during an in-party poll gathering, which was to be addressed by State BJP chief and party candidate Ashwani Sharma.

BJP leader Sharma accused the current Congress government in Punjab of failing to maintain law and order in the state.

"It shows that the administration is unable to maintain law and order," Sharma said

Blurry visuals released by news agency ANI shows disruptions at the poll gathering venue while some men, presumably BJP workers lying on hospital beds undergoing necessary treatment.

The culprits have not been identified yet.

The reports come as the assembly polls in Punjab are due in some weeks.

All the 117 constituencies of the northern state will go to the polls on February 20 in a single phase. The counting of votes will take place on March 10.

BJP, which lost its ally Shiromani Akali Dal after the implementation of three farm laws, will contest these elections in alliance with Amarinder Singhs Punjab Lok Congress.

Live TV
ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Cooperation with China in the areas of education, science, technology and innovation anchored through the broader framework the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), a senior African Union (AU) official has said.

The remark was made by Hambani Masheleni, the Acting Head of the Education Division in the Department of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation at the AU Commission.

"With regards to our cooperation with China and what we are doing in these areas (education, science and technology), of course there are many. We collaborate with China through a broader framework of the FOCAC that brings China into the rest of Africa together," Masheleni said.

Masheleni made the remarks in a press conference on the sidelines of the opening session of the AU Executive Council on Wednesday, which brings together foreign ministers of African countries at the AU Headquarters in Ethiopia' capital Addis Ababa for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The two-day meeting is being held under the theme of the year "Building resilience in nutrition on the African continent: Accelerate the Human Capital, Social and Economic Development." 
Beijing: A top US senator has strongly criticised China for making a People`s Liberation Armys regimental commander, who had suffered severe injuries during the Galwan clash, the torchbearer at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Torch Relay on Wednesday.

Qi Fabao, the regimental commander from the People`s Liberation Army (PLA) Xinjiang military command, who suffered a serious head injury during the Galwan Valley border skirmish on June 15, 2020, took the flame from Wang Meng, China`s four-time Olympic short track speed skating champion, at Winter Olympic Park on Wednesday, reported Global Times.

The controversial move faced sharp criticism from US senator Jim Risch who strongly condemned Beijing for choosing a torchbearer for the winter games who was a part of the military command that attacked India in 2020 and is also implementing genocide against the Uyghurs.

Calling China's actions shameful, Senator Risch, a ranking member of the United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, reaffirmed the United States' commitment to supporting Uyghur freedom and the sovereignty of India.

After reporting his inclusion among the Olympics' 1,200 torchbearers, China's state media Global Times feted Qi  who sustained a serious head injury during the fighting  as a hero for his role in the Himalayan battle.

Qi appeared on Chinese state broadcaster CCTV in December and said he was "ready to return to the battlefield and fight again". All this came as a report revealed that China is hiding its losses in the Galwan Valley clash with India in June 2020.

The new research has shown that the People`s Liberation Army (PLA) lost at least nine times more soldiers than its official count of four. At least 38 PLA troops drowned while crossing a fast-flowing, sub-zero river in darkness, according to an article in the Australian newspaper The Klaxon which cited a report prepared by a group of social media researchers after a year-long investigation.

Of the four soldiers that China has confirmed died, only one of them - Junior Sergeant Wang Zhuoran - is reported as having drowned, the investigative newspaper said.

The report cited "several Weibo users" and said, "at least 38 PLA troops along with Wang were washed away and drowned that night...of which only Wang was declared among the four officially dead soldiers."

The report cited a year-long investigation involving discussions with mainland Chinese bloggers, information obtained from mainland-based Chinese citizens and media reports that have since been deleted by Chinese authorities.

The border standoff in eastern Ladakh erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry.

As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in Gogra as well as in the north and south banks of the Pangong lake last year. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control in the sensitive sector.

Live TV
Former boxer Floyd Mayweather will join a growing list of big-time names in the world of NASCAR this season.

Mayweather announced earlier this week his plans to start his own team  The Money Team Racing  which will make its debut at Daytona Speedweeks later this month.

Kaz Grala, a 23-year-old racer who won a NASCAR Trucks Series race at Daytona in 2017, will drive the No. 50 Chevy and attempt to qualify for the Feb. 20 Daytona 500.

Mayweather, the 44-year-old former prize fighter, will team up with co-owner William Auchmoody, who will also serve as TMT Racings general manager.

The team indicated that it intends to compete in select races during the rest of the Cup Series season.

Money Mayweather: Floyd Mayweather starts NASCAR team, will enter car in Daytona 500 with Kaz Grala

Rolex winners: A look at all 5 class winners from the 2022 Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway

Michael Jordan waved the green flag to start the 2010 NASCAR All-Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

I love fast cars and I love to compete. I know NASCAR will not be easy, but anything easy isnt worth doing to me, Mayweather said.

Michael Jordan, Pitbull start NASCAR teams

Mayweather is just the latest worldwide name to jump into the NASCAR world.

Last season, Mr. Worldwide himself  Pitbull  started Trackhouse Racing with co-owner Justin Marks. Last summer, just a few months into its inaugural season, that team then acquired Chip Ganassi's racing operation  Chip Ganassi Racing.

This season, Trackhouse will now field two cars with Daniel Suarez returning for his second season and Florida native Ross Chastain joining the operation.

Pitbull, the Grammy-winning artist, will also perform at this weekend's Busch Light Clash at the L.A. Coliseum.

"Its an honor to integrate culture, music and NASCAR racing as the universal language to unite new audiences around the world," he said.

While Pitbull and Mayweather are big names, it doesn't get much bigger than Michael Jordan, who started up 23XI Racing with Denny Hamlin last season.

"Growing up in North Carolina, my parents would take my brothers, sisters and me to races, and I've been a NASCAR fan my whole life," Jordan said at the time. "The opportunity to own my own racing team in partnership with my friend, Denny Hamlin, and to have Bubba Wallace driving for us, is very exciting for me.

Story continues

The 23XI team, with driver Bubba Wallace, won its first race last fall at Talladega and, like Trackhouse, has also expanded this season with the addition of a second car.

Kurt Busch, the 2004 Cup Series champion, will drive the No. 45 Toyota alongside Wallace's No. 23 machine.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Michael Jordan, Pitbull and now Floyd Mayweather enter NASCAR world
analysis

In Nigeria, the West African Examination Council and National Examination Council are the agencies that conduct the Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations. The results serve as evidence of completion of secondary school in Nigeria. They are required to qualify for some employment opportunities and contest certain political offices. They're also needed to secure admission into higher education institutions within and outside of Nigeria.

So, a high value is placed on success in these exams. Some candidates use illegal and unethical means to pass. They are aided in this by the so-called "miracle examination centres" - special secondary schools that encourage such malpractices. These centres have institutionalised cheating in the school certificate examinations.

Despite efforts by government and examination bodies to clamp down on them, they continue to thrive and enjoy the patronage of people from different classes of society.

Nigeria's education sector has been listed among the five most corrupt sectors in Nigeria. The exam centres' practices cast doubt on the quality of students admitted into higher education, the quality of the workforce and that of political leaders.

Despite the harmful impact these centres have, they haven't been studied systematically. As part of the Anti-Corruption Evidence Research Consortium led by SOAS University of London, we conducted a systematic review of the existing literature about their nature, the drivers, and proposed solutions to the problem. Our work is the first comprehensive study into the issue.

We hope that our review will help researchers and policymakers to understand and combat exam malpractice.

Our research

The SOAS Anti-Corruption Evidence approach aims to find out what could motivate people to change their rule-breaking behaviour in specific contexts and also if these actors have the power to carry out this change. This is unlike conventional anti-corruption strategies that simply try to enforce rules.

In line with this approach, we examined the drivers of the centres and the opportunities for feasible solutions by grassroots actors interested in bringing about change. These actors include parents, students, school owners, teachers and community members. Examination bodies, ministries of education, security agencies and the government can also make meaningful efforts.

Our literature review was supported by visits to communities in Abuja, Anambra, Edo and Kogi States, where the centres are prevalent. We also held workshops and interviewed more than 175 people, including providers and users of the exam centre "services".

Operations and drivers of 'miracle centres'

We found that the "miracle centres" tend to be at private schools (though some are public). They either help leak examination questions in advance, or compromise the examinations once the question papers arrive at the venue.

Parental and peer pressure, and inefficient teaching and learning practices support the existence of these centres. Other factors are complicit school management practices and community protection of rogue schools and their operators.

The most immediate drivers include the activities of students, parents and community members or groups. Some community members collude with popular centres by diverting external supervisors or inspectors.

Profit is a major driver of private schools generally and the centres particularly. Due to the high patronage, the prices of their rogue services could be over 300% the actual registration fees as stipulated by the examination bodies. Tutorial centres supply candidates to the most trusted "miracle centres" and the "success" stories of their candidates attract more students to register with them.

The remote drivers of these practices revolve around educational policies, institutions, and the formal structures guiding school-related activities. Rogue examiners employed to supervise the examinations use their position to shield illegal activities, acting with owners of the "miracle centres". Our review found that punishment for this was seldom reported, which suggests that institutions might be complicit.

School curricula upon which the examinations are based appear to be difficult and sometimes not taught in class. This is another factor enabling the centres to flourish.

There are also concerns about political influences protecting this education ecosystem. The quality of funding for the education sector is also abysmal.

What needs to be done?

Top-down enforcement of rules, by withholding or cancelling results and blacklisting suspicious centres, seems to be the approach favoured by examination councils and the ministry of education. But the centres continue to exist, so it is not working.

There is evidence that when local actors are properly engaged, they can catalyse change and ensure that perpetrators are duly sanctioned. For instance, civil society groups, faith-based organisations and community leaders should be involved in campaigns against "miracle centres". Parent-teacher associations, National Youth Service Corps members and students' clubs should also be involved. Private schools' proprietors can sanction erring members, and form advocacy groups that could get government to act. Whistle blowing mechanisms can be made available to the public for swift reports of suspicious schools.

Close Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox Top Headlines Nigeria Education By submitting above, you agree to our privacy policy. Success! Almost finished... We need to confirm your email address. To complete the process, please follow the instructions in the email we just sent you. Error! Error! There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later.

Overall, the goal is to see people enforce rules in their self-interest rather than because of the fear of sanctions from authorities.

Chidi Nzeadibe, Professor of Environmental Management & Sustainability, University of Nigeria; Aloysius Odii, Lecturer, University of Nigeria; Charles T Orjiakor, Lecturer, Department of Psychology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Research Fellow Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria; Chinyere Onalu, Researcher, Social Work, University of Nigeria; Dr. Pallavi Roy, Senior Lecturer in International Economics, SOAS, University of London; Obinna Onwujekwe, Professor of Health Economics and Policy and Pharmaco-economics/pharmaco-epidemiology in the Departments of Health Administration & Management and Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria; Prince Agwu -, Researcher at the Department of Social Work and the Health Policy Research Group, University of Nigeria, University of Nigeria, and Uzoma Okoye, Professor of Social Work, University of Nigeria
Key Market Dynamics:

Market Driver

The rising number of infrastructural and construction activities and cost-effectiveness are some of the key market drivers. The growing demand for multi-family buildings as well as the rise in migration to cities has prompted the US Census Bureau to provide several permits for the construction of new residential buildings. Residential construction is showing signs of more sustainable momentum, which is underpinned by moderate economic growth in Mexico, Australia, and Canada. In developing countries such as India and Australia, the demand for residential accommodation will increase, owing to the increasing population and urbanization.

Market Challenges

Low durability is one of the key factors hindering the particle board market size growth. Particle board swells and warps in the presence of moisture. The low durability of particle board is expected to hinder the growth of the market in focus during the forecast period. Also, at the absolute least, moisture exposure may cause particle board to shrink and expand, as well as warp and bend, which is obviously undesirable.

To learn about additional key drivers, trends, and challenges available with Technavio. Read our FREE Sample Report!

Key Market Segment Analysis:

The particle board market report is segmented by End-user (Residential, Commercial, and Industrial) and Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, MEA, and South America). The residential end-user segment held for the largest particle board market share in 2020 and will lead the market throughout the forecast period. Particle board is becoming more popular as a building material due to its wide range of applications and low cost. Particle boads are used for flooring applications, partitioning or wall paneling, and furniture. The APAC will be the leading region with 40% of the market's growth during the forecast period. China and India are the key markets for the particle board market in APAC. The rapidly growing construction industry and the rising demand for single-family and multi-family house construction projects across countries in APAC, such as China, Japan, and India, are expected to support the growth of the regional market during the forecast period.

View our sample report for additional insights into the contribution of all the segments, and regional opportunities in the report.

Some Companies Mentioned with their Offerings

Associate Decor Ltd.: The company offers particle board products such as Interior Grade Particleboards, Exterior Grade Particleboards, and HMR Grade Particleboards. The company manufactures products such as pressure laminates, melamine faced particle board, pre-laminated particle boards, and chipboards.

The company offers particle board products such as Interior Grade Particleboards, Exterior Grade Particleboards, and HMR Grade Particleboards. The company manufactures products such as pressure laminates, melamine faced particle board, pre-laminated particle boards, and chipboards.

Boise Cascade Co.: The company manufactures laminated veneer lumber (LVL), I-joists, laminated beams, and structural, appearance, and industrial plywood panels. The company also operates through building materials distribution facilitating that sells a broad line of building materials, including oriented strand board (OSB), plywood, and lumber among others.

The company manufactures laminated veneer lumber (LVL), I-joists, laminated beams, and structural, appearance, and industrial plywood panels. The company also operates through building materials distribution facilitating that sells a broad line of building materials, including oriented strand board (OSB), plywood, and lumber among others.

Century Prowud: The company manufactures products such as plywood, laminates, veneers, flooring and exteriors, and engineered wood products. The company offers particle board products such as Century Pre- Lam particle Board,

Other Companies Mentioned with their Offerings

Columbia Forest Products Inc.



D and R Henderson Pty Ltd.



Fritz Egger GmbH and Co. OG



Kastamonu Integrated Wood Industry and Trade Inc.



Koch Industries Inc.



Krifor Industries Pvt. Ltd.



Kronoplus Ltd.

To gain access to more vendor profiles with their key offerings available with Technavio, Click Here

Related Reports:

Drywall and Gypsum Board Market by Application and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026

Reclaimed Lumber Market by End-user and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026

Composite Materials Market by Fiber Type and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2021-2025

Particle Board Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.88% Market growth 2022-2026 $ 6.00 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 3.90 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, MEA, and South America Performing market contribution APAC at 40% Key consumer countries US, China, Germany, India, and UK Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Associate Decor Ltd., Boise Cascade Co., Century Prowud, Columbia Forest Products Inc., D and R Henderson Pty Ltd., Fritz Egger GmbH and Co. OG, Kastamonu Integrated Wood Industry and Trade Inc., Koch Industries Inc., Krifor Industries Pvt. Ltd., and Kronoplus Ltd. 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.

Key Topics Covered:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by End-user

Customer landscape

Geographic Landscape

Vendor Landscape

Vendor Analysis

Appendix

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library 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.

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NORTH DAKOTA - Gov. Doug Burgum announced he has appointed Pat Bertagnolli of Watford City to serve as executive director of Job Service North Dakota, effective Feb. 21, citing his extensive background in workforce recruitment, his experience in both the public and private sectors and his service on the states Workforce Development Council.

Bertagnolli was chosen in part due to his extensive background in workforce recruitment, his experience in both the public and private sectors and his service on the states Workforce Development Council.

Bertagnolli (BERT-n-OH-lee) has served as director of the Rough Rider Center and community enhancement in Watford City since December 2019. He previously served as vice president of human resources for MBI Energy Services and has held human resources management positions at several other energy-related businesses in the Watford City and Williston areas since 2011. Prior to that he had a 22-year career with UPS serving in multiple capacities, most notably as a multistate operations manager and workforce planning and employee relations manager.

Having spent much of the last decade recruiting and retaining workers in the fastest-growing area of the country, Pat Bertagnolli has the right experience to lead Job Service North Dakota as we tackle our states significant workforce challenge  our No. 1 barrier to economic growth, Burgum said. We are deeply grateful for Pats service on the Workforce Development Council these past eight years and look forward to his leadership at Job Service in connecting jobseekers with employers and removing barriers to employment.

Bertagnolli earned his bachelors degree in business administration in 1990 from Carroll College in Helena, Mont., and a Senior Certified Professional credential from the Society for Human Resource Management in 2015. He currently serves on the TrainND Northwest Advisory Board and on Williston State Colleges nursing advisory board. He has served on the states Workforce Development Council for eight years, having been first appointed by then-Gov. Jack Dalrymple in 2014 and reappointed by Burgum in 2016, and is a former president of the Watford City Area Chamber of Commerce.

Story continues

Im thankful to have had a front row seat to the greatest growth in the nation as referenced in results of the 2020 Census, and Job Service North Dakota has been a key partner in that growth, Bertagnolli said. I look forward to working alongside this amazing team in a more formal capacity to help facilitate statewide collaboration and alignment to support our states recruiting and retention efforts. Im grateful to Gov. Burgum for this incredible opportunity to serve the great people of North Dakota.

Burgum expressed his gratitude to North Dakota Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI) Director Bryan Klipfel, who has served as interim executive director of JSND since 2019 and will return to leading WSI full time.

Job Service North Dakota has 156 full-time team members, 66 temporary employees and a biennial budget of $65.4 million to manage multiple federal grants for workforce and unemployment services. The agency has nine workforce centers across the state staffed with regional workforce experts to remove barriers to employment and to connect employers and job seekers by building partnerships within local communities with employers, schools, local economic development associations and chambers. Unemployment Insurance services are carried out at the central office location in Bismarck. Through this program, the agency stabilizes the workforce and economy by providing income replacement to eligible workers. The agency also provides education and labor market information to businesses and job seekers to make informed decisions.

This article originally appeared on Devils Lake Journal: Pat Bertagnolli new Job Service North Dakota executive director
A man who was stabbed during a weekend argument on St. Charles Avenue died Wednesday.

Multiple law enforcement sources identified the victim as 65-year-old Granville Henry. New Orleans police said he argued with a woman named Milan Collins, 57, on Saturday at 11:10 p.m. in the 1000 block of St. Charles, near what was formerly known as Lee Circle. Collins allegedly stabbed Henry in the back. Henry was taken to a hospital.

Police described the argument as domestic but did not explain the motive for the killing.

Officers booked Collins on Saturday on counts of aggravated battery and domestic abuse battery. She remained jailed Wednesday and is likely to be rebooked on a murder count.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Henry was one of at least 26 people to have been killed in New Orleans this year. There had been 19 killings by the same date last year, according to statistics maintained by the City Council.
Almost two months after she knocked out a 17-year incumbent, Susan Hutson held her first news conference as Orleans Parish sheriff-elect on Wednesday to name her transition team and detail plans for her first days in office.

Hutson said she hopes to craft an agreement with Mayor LaToya Cantrell to set a funding baseline for the Sheriffs Office, which has a huge budget, and to implement a raft of changes immediately after her inauguration.

The citys independent police monitor for more than a decade, Hutson has kept a relatively low profile since her stunning Dec. 11 victory over Marlin Gusman, who was regarded as a political powerhouse. She said she has been busy analyzing conditions at the jail and crafting plans.

I'll be inaugurated on May 2, but Im already doing things today that will lay the groundwork for success and compliance with the consent decree, even before I take office, said Hutson, referring to the jail's court-approved reform agreement with the federal government.

One first task will be to ensure there are enough deputies available to escort incarcerated people to and from therapy sessions and other mental health checkups inside the jail, which Hutson said was a critical need. Federal monitors have said inmates often miss appointments because there aren't enough deputies around to serve as escorts. Most of the people in the jail have mental health issues, according to Gusmans administration.

Second, Hutson promised to cooperate fully with the court-appointed monitors who oversee the consent decree.

Third, she promised transparent policies available to the public.

The first step is writing that down for everyone to have access to, Hutson said. Well do that, and we're going to get started now on it during the transition. I have already requested from Sheriff Gusman the documents we need.

Hutson also hopes to hammer out what is known as a cooperative endeavor agreement with City Hall. She didn't delve into details but described it as a part of her plan for achieving compliance with the consent decree.

"I want to talk to them about what I need, funding-wise," she said. "I want to be transparent with them about the data and the metrics that they need to see, that the taxpayers' money is going to programs and operations that the taxpayers want it to."

Hutson announced the three co-chairs of her transition team: retired Criminal District Court Judge Calvin Johnson, Loyola University law professor Andrea Armstrong and Flozell Daniels, CEO and president of the Foundation for Louisiana.

Gusman has a long lame-duck period until Hutson takes over May 2. Despite the barbs they traded on the campaign trail, Hutson struck a positive tone about her interactions with the office thus far. She said that she has had one meeting with Gusman and another with Sean Bruno, the Sheriff's Office chief financial officer.

The sheriff during our meeting pledged to support my transition, for the good of the city, she said. We do look forward to his cooperation.

A Sheriffs Office spokesperson said the agency was cooperating fully with the sheriff-elect and her team.

+6 Susan Hutson defeats Marlin Gusman in Orleans Parish sheriff's race First-time candidate Susan Hutson toppled 17-year incumbent Marlin Gusman in the Orleans Parish sheriffs race on Saturday, a stunning rebuke 

One area where Hutson said she needs more information is staffing. She said she was concerned about the number of vacancies Gusman said he had at a recent public appearance. The Sheriff's Office said it hired 15 employees but lost 32 in November, December and January.

Regardless, Hutson promised to recruit deputies even before she takes over at the Orleans Justice Center. Staffing has been a perpetual problem for the Sheriffs Office in recent years, and the pandemic has accelerated turnover.

We know that one of the things we'll be doing, all along this transition period, is recruiting, Hutson said. We know that some of them want to come back, so we will be talking directly to them.

Hutson said she has not identified who will serve in top roles such as chief deputy.
A McLennan County jury determined Wednesday that a former Waco man is a sexually violent predator who should be sent to a state treatment facility instead of being released from prison.

Louis Robinson Jr., 60, is the second former Waco man in the past two weeks to be committed civilly to a state treatment facility in West Texas before his scheduled discharge from prison.

Jurors in Wacos 19th State District Court deliberated about two-and-a-half hours before finding Robinson, a four-time felon who has committed repeated sexual infractions while in prison, should not be released because he is a repeat sexually violent offender who suffers from a behavioral abnormality that makes him likely to engage in a predatory act of sexual violence.

While 19th State District Court is a felony criminal court, Robinsons jury trial was a civil commitment proceeding initiated by attorneys from the State Special Prosecution Units civil division.

Robinson, a seventh-grade dropout raised in Waco, was set for release from prison March 10. He spent about an hour on the witness stand Wednesday denying most of the allegations from two sexual assaults and an aggravated robbery to which he pleaded guilty and disputing details from police reports about three other sexual assaults for which he was arrested but not prosecuted.

Dr. Sheri Gaines, a forensic psychiatrist from Huntsville who evaluated Robinson, testified Wednesday that Robinsons lifelong criminal behavior began when he was 8. He stole bikes and broke into houses, which led him to detention in local and state juvenile facilities. He went to prison for the first time at 21 for burglary of a habitation and his parole was revoked four times because of his inability to comply with the law and parole requirements.

He served eight years in prison after a 1992 aggravated robbery conviction and was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2002 after he was convicted of stalking an ex-girlfriend and threatening to kill her and her child before breaking down her door while she slept, choking her and sexually assaulting her at knifepoint.

Robinson returned to prison in 2017 after he was convicted of taking a woman to a friends house, where his friend and another man beat and raped the woman while Robinson smiled and smoked crack cocaine before joining in on the sexual abuse. He was sentenced to six years in prison, the sentence he currently is serving.

Gaines said Robinson suffers from a behavioral abnormality that causes deviant sexuality. She said that coupled with antisocial personality disorder, alcohol and cocaine use disorders and schizophrenia makes him much more likely to reoffend if he is released. However, she said the fact Robinson continues to deny the crimes he committed also makes it less likely that he will benefit from sexual offender treatment.

Robinson is the fifth person to stand trial in McLennan County under the civil commitment statute.

The jury wrote a letter and asked Judge Thomas West to read it into the record after he announced their decision. The jury, noting Robinsons long criminal history beginning when he was a juvenile, said if the criminal justice system had done a better job at rehabilitation, this weeks trial might not have been necessary.
Arkansas State University

The fall 2021 Chancellors and Deans lists include students who were enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours. The Chancellors List requires a perfect GPA of 4.0. The Deans List requires a GPA of 3.6 to 3.99. Local Chancellor's List students include: Olivia Ebert of Fredericktown, Maci Reynolds of Bloomsdale. Local Dean's List students include Alec Black of Bonne Terre and Jadyn Leclere of Ste. Genevieve.

Bob Jones University

Naomi Goetz, a Senior Voice Performance major from Farmington, was named to the Fall 2021 President's List, which recognizes students who earn a 3.75 or higher GPA for the semester.

Columbia College

Online students Kimberly Brewer and Lindsey Meyer, both of Sainte Genevieve, were included on the dean's list for the fall semester. To be named to the dean's list, a student must have completed 12 semester hours in a 16-week period and achieved a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0-point scale.

Drury University

The Fall 2021 Dean's List, which includes students earning GPAs of 3.6 or better on a 4-point scale and completing 12 or more semester hours, included Abigail Street of Bonne Terre, and Laiken Cash and Olivia Piekarski of Farmington.

Fontbonne University

Bonne Terre native Michaela Mason, a full-time undergraduate student majoring in fine arts, was named to the fall 2021 dean's list. Deans list honorees must earn a GPA of 3.7 or higher upon completion of the semester.

Harding University Dean's list

Jacob Anderson, a freshman studying political science and history, was included on the dean's list carrying 12 or more hours with a 3.65 or higher GPA and no incompletes.

Linn State Technical College of Missouri

Those who achieved the Dean's List during the 2021 Fall semester are full-time students who earned a semester GPA between 3.5 and 4.0 on a 4-point scale. From Farmington, those students were Mason Berghaus, Lane Redmond and William Thomure. From Ste. Genevieve, those students were Drew Bauman, Brandon Isenman and Drew Metzger.

MidAmerica Nazarene University

Alyssa Roever and Makenzie Roever of Bonne Terre made the Dean's List and Honor Roll for the fall 2021 semester, having carried 12 semester hours or more with a term GPA of 3.5 to 3.99.

Northwest Missouri State University

Graduates this fall included, from Farmington, Shawn William Brumfield, M.S.Ed. in Education Leadership K-12.

To be included on the Academic Honor Roll a student must carry a minimum of 12 credit hours and attain a GPA of 3.50 or better. Students named to the President's Honor Roll have attained a perfect 4.00 GPA for the semester. Local students included on these rolls include: Bonne Terre, Academic, Kayla K Pezold and Sainte Genevieve, President's, Reese O McGlasson.

Olivet Nazarene University

Remington Ross of Park Hills was named to the dean's list during the recently completed fall 2021 semester, having attained a semester GPA of 3.50 or higher on a 4.00 grading scale and being a full-time student.

Rockhurst University

Kenzie Jones of Farmington was named to the dean's list for the fall 2021 semester. This honor recognizes students who have achieved a GPA of 3.5 or above.

Kim Weiss of Bismarck received Master of Science in Nursing degree during fall graduation exercises.

Southern New Hampshire University

The Fall 2021 President's List included full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum GPA of 3.700 or better. Local students meeting the criteria include Nick Nabors of Park Hills, Shellie Sebastian of Fredericktown, Daisy Benz of Farmington and ShaFawn Hodges of Desloge.

Truman State University

Students on the President's List achieved a 4.0 GPA and completed 12 or more semester hours. Local students on the Fall 2021 President's List include Laura Haarmann of Cadet; Lily Borrego, Devin Chau, Ryan Fuemmeler, Caitlyn Mabry and Kim Ramos of Farmington; Kayli Ballew of Fredericktown; Ali Werner of Ste. Genevieve.

Students on the Fall 2021 Vice President for Academic Affairs List achieved a semester GPA of at least 3.5 and completed at least 12 credit hours. Local students on the list include Kat Gerhard of Desloge; Alexander Karst, Greg Roberts and ZuZu Smugala of Farmington; Hannah Helvey of Ironton; and Shelby Manes and Mary Roth of Ste. Genevieve.

Fall graduates included Kayli Ann Ballew of Fredericktown, who graduated Summa Cum Laude.

University of the Cumberlands

Matthew Cannaday of Farmington completed a Doctor of Philosophy in Business degree.

University of Evansville

Anna Robbins of Fredericktown was recently named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2021 semester at the University of Evansville, Indiana. Robbins is studying Archaeology at UE. She carried a full academic load of 12 hours or more and earned a GPA of 3.5 or above.

University of Iowa

Molly Manion of Park Hills made the dean's list for 2021 fall semester. Manion is a fourth year student in Iowa's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and is majoring in English and creative writing.

University of Wisconsin

Dean's List for the fall 2021 semester includes Gillian Cummins, a sophomore working toward a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, who earned a GPA of 3.5 or better.

Valdosta State University

Chelsey Crocker of Park Hills has earned the Master of Education in Health and Physical Education (Prekindergarten-Grade 12) during Fall Semester 2021.

Westminster College

The Fall Dean's List included Jordan Tinker from Desloge, a sophomore at Westminster who achieved a 3.60 semester GPA with at least 12 hours completed that semester.
The Federal Government, Wednesday, disclosed that it had secured $600 million World Bank loan to tackle land degradation in 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

This was made known by the National Project Coordinator, Federal Government, Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project, NEWMAP, Salisu Dahiru, who was represented by Water Resources Specialist, Ayuba Anda Yalaks, during a HarvestPlus and ICRISAT organised consultative workshop on climate resilient and nutrition.

According to Dahiru, the fund is for the implementation of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape, ACReSAL, project aimed at up-scaling implementation of sustainable landscape management practices in the northern region, and also strengthening and enabling environment for integrated climate-resilient landscape management.

The project is targeted at addressing challenges of environmental degradation including deforestation, erosion, water management, and food production in the region.

He said: "The Federal government has secured a $600 million credit facility from the World Bank International Development Association (IDA) to address challenges of land degradation in the 19 Northern States of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

"The fund is for the implementation of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL) project aimed increasing the implementation of sustainable landscape management practices in the northern region, and also strengthening and enabling the environment for integrated climate-resilient landscape management."

He also explained that the project will be implemented within six years, which will address nutrition challenges in content of major crops occasioned by climate change affecting farmers' productivity, hence the high importation of food to meet demand.

However, explaining why the project is not being implemented in the Southern part of Nigeria, he (Dahiru) said NEWAP project addressed land degradation in the Southeast, South-South and Southwest regions, but following the challenges in terms of Agriculture, water resources management, food production in the north it was deemed fit for it to focus on the region.

"For this project we are considering the aridity index, the dry part of the country, because the challenges in terms of agriculture, water resources management, food production is huge which is why the project is been targeted at the north", he added.

Meanwhile, HarverstPlus and International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, ICRISAT, orgainsed a one-day 'Consultative Engagement with ACReSAL State Level Stakeholders', which is to share information and lessons from the States and help develop a more integrated, multi-sectional approach to implementing more resilient and sustainable agricultural productivity projects.

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The Country Manager, HarvestPlus,Yusuf Dollah, in his remarks said ICRISAT and HarvestPlus are both technical advisers for the project.

Dollah further stated that the project is a climate activity from the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

He pointed that HarvestPlus has been deeply involved in promoting crops that are climate tolerant and resistant to pests.

"Our primary objective is to breed and promote crops that have high level nutrient that we can use to solve our nutrition, and livelihood problems", he said.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 2, 2022

Contact: press@michigan.gov

Governor Whitmer Announces More Than 91,000 Students on Tuition-Free Pathway at One-Year Anniversary of Michigan Reconnect

LANSING, Mich. - Governor Gretchen Whitmer today marked the one-year anniversary of Michigan Reconnect by announcing that 91,000 Michiganders are on a tuition-free pathway to attain degrees and skills for new opportunities that lead to rewarding careers and bigger paychecks under the Michigan Reconnect program. Michigan Reconnect is one of the tools the state is using to achieve Governor Whitmer's Sixty by 30 goal, which aims to increase the percentage of adults in the state with a postsecondary degree or credential by 2030.

"I want to congratulate all of the hardworking Michiganders who took the first step toward a brighter future, all while balancing so many other responsibilities," said Governor Whitmer. "Whether?it's?a registered apprenticeship, an industry-recognized certification, a technical certificate, an?associate degree, a bachelor's degree or beyond, higher education or skills training opens so many doors. We have an ambitious but attainable goal to reach 60% of working-age adults with a postsecondary credential by 2030. Programs like Reconnect help us put Michiganders first and continue growing our economy."

Michigan Reconnect is the largest effort in state history to ensure that Michiganders who are 25 or older and do not have a college degree will have an opportunity to earn an associate degree or skills certificate with free or deeply discounted tuition. Since the program's launch in February 2021, more than 91,000 state residents have been accepted into the program with over 12,000 scholarship participants currently enrolled in a degree or skills certificate program.

Governor Whitmer and legislative leaders announced a budget agreement last September to fully fund Michigan Reconnect in FY 2021-2022.

"The bipartisan work of the governor and lawmakers will make it easier for working adults to achieve their educational, career and life goals."?said?Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. "The governor and I will continue to work with our partners to boost educational attainment beyond high school, and I encourage anyone looking to advance their education and skills needed to pursue and land a good-paying job in a rewarding career to apply for Michigan Reconnect today.

Since the announcement of the Sixty by 30 goal in 2019, the percentage of working-age adults with a certificate, associate degree or higher has increased from 45% to 49%.

"More Michigan families are within reach of a college degree or skills certificate thanks to efforts like Michigan Reconnect," Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director Susan Corbin said. "We are creating new paths for fulfilling careers for our workers and opportunities for our Michigan businesses to fill critical talent needs so they can continue to compete, grow and innovate."

Michigan Reconnect pays the cost of in-district tuition for eligible adults who want to pursue an associate degree or skills certificate at any of Michigan's public community colleges, including its three tribal colleges.

The program also included skills scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition through more than 70 private training schools with 120 programs that offer certificates in high-demand careers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, information technology, health care or business management. Nearly 850 students took advantage of this limited opportunity and enrollment for this portion of the scholarship has closed.

The state's network of Michigan Reconnect Navigators are actively working with nearly 15,000 Michigan Reconnect applicants to guide them on their path to a college degree or skills certificate, including applying for federal student aid, setting career goals, selecting a program of study, registering for classes and creating a graduation plan.

"Michigan's community colleges work tirelessly every day to change lives of students and make the communities they serve better places to live, learn, and work," Michigan Community College Association President Brandy Johnson said. "Our member institutions are honored to partner in the state's Sixty by 30 initiative because there's nothing more important than equipping people with the training and credentials that they need to achieve prosperity."

More information is available at Michigan.gov/Reconnect.

# # #
JEFFERSON CITY  The Missouri Legislature seemed poised to get off to a fast start when lawmakers convened in January for the beginning of their annual session.

On tap were issues ranging from the approval of a new congressional map, a $5.3 billion budget request from Gov. Mike Parson that would give raises to a depleted state workforce and the confirmation of the Republican governors pick to lead the states health department in the midst of an ongoing pandemic.

After one month, none of those high priority items have materialized in a state where Parsons fellow Republicans control nearly all the levers of government.

On Tuesday, the House and Senate canceled their session for the week because of the looming bad weather, but not before the Republican-controlled Senate handed Parson a crushing loss by failing to sign off on his appointment of Donald Kauerauf as the director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

In the midst of a pandemic, Kauerauf was seen by supporters as a steady hand with 35 years of public health experience in Illinois following the sometimes erratic performance of his predecessor, Dr. Randall Williams, an appointee of former Gov. Eric Greitens who was ushered out the door with little explanation last year.

The budget request that would provide 5.5% raises to the states historically low paid workforce also is languishing, despite a constant drumbeat of bad news from state agencies struggling to recruit and retain public servants who help build roads, oversee prisons and care for the mentally ill.

And, the congressional map has become a focal point of GOP-led consternation, as debate among Republicans appears to have shifted from whether to slash a safe Democratic congressional district in Kansas City to debate over how to draw the currently suburban St. Louis County-based 2nd Congressional District, held by U.S. Rep. Ann Wagner, R-Ballwin.

Longtime observers, including lobbyists and staffers who patrol the Capitols marble-lined corridors, say the level of dysfunction is higher than usual in the upper chamber, leading to questions over what might be accomplished this year.

Parson, who served in the Senate and House, has largely been reduced to a lame-duck spectator amid infighting within his own party.

Following Kaueraufs rejection, Parson issued a stinging rebuke of the chamber he once served in.

I pray that honor, integrity, and order can be returned to the Missouri Senate and that it comes sooner rather than later, the states 57th governor said in a statement.

Public health officials expressed dismay at the outcome.

In a tweet, St. Louis Director of Health Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis called the rejection an an attack on public health.

Im so deeply disgusted by this. Don is a good man and Director, who did not deserve this. He always answered my call, answered any question transparently and always helped where he could, she wrote.

Sen. Karla May, D-St. Louis, said shes not sure how Republicans can bridge their differences in the Senate.

This is getting to be ridiculous. We are in a very interesting political climate and Im hoping we have reasonable, morally conscious people who will do the right thing and not tilt this ship all the way to the right until it sinks, May said. This is not the normal Republican Party. So right now, its hard to gauge where things will go.

Running for higher office

In December, the so-called regular Republicans aligned with Senate Majority Leader Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, and excluded them from a private strategy meeting designed to determine how to navigate the jampacked upcoming session in an election year where many lawmakers are seeking to jump to higher office.

Senate President Dave Schatz, R-Sullivan, is running for U.S. Senate. Moon and Burlison are running for the 7th Congressional District nomination. Brattin is running in the 4th Congressional District. Onder is running for St. Charles County executive.

The fractured GOP majority has brought the chambers 10 Democrats into the mix, potentially giving them a voice at the negotiating table in search of finding the 18 votes needed to pass a bill.

Parson said the Senate needs a reset after the hard-liners seeking higher office scored their win by blocking Kauerauf.

Its unfortunate that we now have to disrupt state operations and the leadership at an entire department because the Missouri Senate chose to indulge a few mens egos, he said in a statement issued hours after lawmakers had scurried from the building amid the potential snowstorm.

Urgent budget matters

Along with getting a congressional map in place, the Legislature faces the challenge of finding agreement on the supplemental spending bill requested by Parson.

Without one, the state could lose $2 billion in federal education funding if the plan isnt signed by the governor by late March.

That question remains mired in the House, where House Budget Committee Chairman Cody Smith, R-Carthage, has not publicly shared the urgency for action that Parson wanted in the first month of the session.

Parsons apparent inability to motivate his fellow Republicans comes as his agency heads have been testifying in budget hearings about woeful conditions in a variety of public services that are supposed to be provided by the state.

More than 200 people are waiting in county jails for mental health services because of a shortage of space and employees to serve them. Prisons are closing housing units because of a shortage of workers. Temporary workers have been brought in to help at a number of short-staffed departments.

The impasse in the Senate has raised the hackles of some members of the House, who remain unsure if any of their priorities will make it through the upper chamber, not to mention concerns about the ongoing operations of state government.

In a joint statement, Reps. LaDonna Appelbaum, D-St. Louis, and Sarah Unsicker, D-Shrewsbury, denounced the conditions under which Kauerauf resigned from his position.

Appelbaum, the ranking minority member of the House Health and Mental Health Committee, said Kauerauf was castigated and slandered by extremists in the Missouri Senate who have politicized a national crisis.

The two lawmakers said the rejection of Parsons pick will empower the senators who led the charge to oust Kauerauf to continue working in their own self-serving interests and not in the interests of Missourians.

Originally posted at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 2.
Bristol, Virginia officials need more time to respond to a Freedom of Information request from Bristol, Tennessee seeking information about their landfill because it is voluminous and overly broad, Bristol Virginia City Manager Randy Eads said Wednesday.

Eads was responding to comments made during a Bristol Tennessee City Council meeting Tuesday, when City Manager Bill Sorah said that Bristol, Virginia officials havent responded to the FOIA request, although theyve been given two extensions.

The City of Bristol, Virginia has outside counsel providing legal guidance to the City as it relates to the FOIA request, Eads wrote in an email to the Bristol Herald Courier.  Fulfilling this FOIA request will require more time than provided for in the Code of Virginia. The Citys outside counsel is attempting to reach a resolution with Bristol, Tennessees outside counsel as it relates to the timing of the Citys response and the specifics of Bristol, Tennessees request.

Requests made under Virginias FOIA must be answered within five business days, although extensions are allowed.

The sister cities have been at odds in recent months over the landfill, which for more than a year has emitted a foul stench that has impacted citizens on both sides of town. Bristol, Tennessee hired an outside counsel to represent it and has threatened to file a lawsuit.

For its part, Bristol, Virginia has spent more than $3 million over the last year attempting to find a solution to the odors, but so far nothing has worked.

A number of local residents have reported that the stink is negatively impacting their health, causing headaches, dizziness, stomach issues and keeping them awake at night.

The FOIA document was filed Jan. 11, and it includes 13 requests for information, ranging from the minutes of all meetings in which the budget for the landfill was discussed, to the public records of the staffing and management of the landfill, including pay, employment applications and disciplinary actions. It also requests all public records, including internal correspondence, related to actions taken to address notices of violations by state and federal agencies and public records of any reports, assessments, recommendations and evaluations conducted by consultants in relation to the landfill.

The time frame for the documents and records requested is from 2016 until now.

Sorah, Bristol, Tennessees city manager, explained Wednesday the reasoning behind the broad series of requests.

You dont know what you might find contained within these documents that might be the basis or part of a claim in a future legal action, Sorah said. We need to understand more about the landfill and its operations so thats the basis behind the FOIA request.

He added that Bristol, Tennessee leaders are still open to finding a solution with Bristol, Virginia outside of the courts in order to avoid litigation.

It has always been the preference [of the Bristol Tennessee City Council] to pursue a non-judicial solution to this issue, and around that would be a settlement agreement with Bristol, Virginia to avoid litigation, Sorah said. Were uncertain as to where this journey will lead us.

In his statement, Eads added that his city has been open in its communication with citizens about the landfill, contrary to the statement of a Bristol, Tennessee councilmember. Members of the Bristol, Tennessee council and management have always been welcome to attend any meeting to obtain any information about the landfill. If Bristol, Tennessee councilmembers or management needed further clarification they have always been welcome to contact Bristol, Virginia councilmembers or city management to obtain the answers to their questions. Unfortunately, only one member of Bristol, Tennessee council has reached out (3-4 times that I am aware) to Bristol, Virginia to get information or further clarification about the landfill situation since January 2021.

He concluded: The City looks forward to continuing to provide transparent and factual information about the landfill.

Bristol, Tennessee council members are meeting via Zoom today with their attorneys to discuss whats next with regard to the FOIA request and what options are available to them.
To send a statement of support to the Ford Workers Rank-and-File Committee in Europe and its fight against concessions and job cuts, email autoworkers@wsws.org.

Autoworkers in the United States are voicing support for the courageous stand being taken by their brothers and sisters at Ford Motor Company in Europe against threats of wage cuts and job losses. Last September, Ford put a question mark over the future of its plants in Saarlouis, Germany, and Almussafes, Spain, near Valencia.

Pitting workers in a Hunger Games-style competition against each other, management has demanded that each plant submit proposals for the largest possible cuts to wages and working conditions, with the losing plant threatened with closure. The unionsIG Metall in Germany, the UGT in Spainas well as the union-dominated works councils are working closely with Ford to draw up the plans for cost cuts.

In response, workers at Ford in Europe recently formed a rank-and-file committee to organize a fight against the attempts to divide them in a fratricidal bidding war. The committee issued a statement last week demanding no concessions and the defense of jobs at all work locations.

We are all behind you in the United States, a Ford worker in Ohio told the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter, addressing himself to his brothers and sisters in Europe. You have to fight one minute longer than they are. Stand up and demand action. The works council sounds like a racket.

The UAW tries to whipsaw us against the Mexican workers, he continued. They do that all the time in the US between plants. If you dont produce here, they will send the F-150 somewhere else. They do it all the time.

Fords drive to cut costs in Europe is part of a global restructuring campaign by the major automakers, as they seek to offset the costs of the transition to electric vehicle (EV) production through savage attacks on workers jobs and wages.

With increasing frequency, auto companies are announcing multibillion-dollar investments in EV manufacturing. Behind this, Wall Street is exerting enormous pressure for labor costs to be slashed and workers exploitation to be intensified. On Tuesday, an article in Bloomberg reported that Ford was planning to spend an additional $10$20 billion to accelerate the shift to EVs over the next five to 10 years. This transition will be underwritten with an as-yet ambiguously defined reorganization plan.

The new plan also envisions a reworked Ford organizational chart, including the hiring of an unspecified number of engineers specializing in disciplines relatively new to the company, such as battery chemistry, artificial intelligence and EV software, the article stated. In addition, Ford is reportedly considering spinning off part of its EV enterprise, in order to attract the type of hyper-speculative investment that has been showered on EV startups.

In an ominous indication of what the reorganization will mean for workers, Bloomberg reported that the initiative is being overseen by Doug Field, a former top executive for Tesla, notorious for its dangerous, sweatshop conditions.

Fords efforts are mirrored by the other automakers, which are seeking to create largely temporary, low-wage workforces. General Motors also recently announced that it was increasing its investments in EVs, upgrading its Lake Orion plant in Michigan and opening a battery plant in the state under a joint venture, Ultium Cells, LLC. Workers at Ultium are expected to be paid just $17$22 an hour, in line with the poverty wages that supplemental workers in the assembly plants make.

The WSWS spoke this week with autoworkers at several plants across the US about the situation confronting Ford workers in Europe and their efforts to organize a struggle across borders.

Mack and Volvo Trucks

A worker at the Mack Trucks plant in Macungie, Pennsylvania, and member of a rank-and-file committee at his factory said he was encouraged by the formation of a similar committee of autoworkers in Germany.

It is heartening to see the growth of automotive rank-and-file committees internationally. I am proud to stand with you as a Mack Trucks worker in America, he said. Once autoworkers everywhere recognize the importance of these committees we will be able to fight these money-hungry corporations that keep taking from us. Good work!

Travis, a worker at the Volvo Trucks New River Valley plant in Virginia, told the WSWS, Im sad to hear that workers are being forced to bid against each other in countries which are both part of the European Union. If the tactic which the corrupt leadership of Ford is playing is allowed to continue, it would be a devastating blow to either the Spanish or German economy. This is abhorrent and the workers themselves must band together in international solidarity and refuse to accept any difference between the two contracts.

This is how the ruling elites maintain their despotic stranglehold in constantly pitting the working class against each other. Keep in mind that they need YOUR votes to proceed with this, so do not give it to them.

He said that if workers defy demands for concessions, it would show Ford for the corrupt criminal swine that they are, just like their founder who was a member of the Nazi party and had no moral compass at all [Henry Ford was a well-known anti-Semite and early admirer of HitlerWSWS]. Vote no on every single deal, and organize information exchanges between the two plants. I recommend using the app Reverso to break the language barrier. From America, in Solidarity.

Ford Chicago and Kansas City

A worker at the Ford Chicago Assembly Plant drew parallels between the union-backed attacks on jobs and wages that workers confront in Europe and the attacks workers are facing in the US.

He said the company is trying to cut costs to make more money. Ford will close more plants as it gets closer to building EV. The 2023 contract is key for Ford and other automakers. The UAW says that they will fight, but it will be just a show. Like I said before, make a lie, make it big, keep it simplethats the UAW.

The trade unions today represent the interests of management and not workers, he said, and thus have reached a dead end. We must end the unions, they are no good for the working class people; only for themselves and the companies they work for.

Pointing to the danger of war in Europe by the US and NATO against Russia, he added, Its troubling times right now for everyone. We may be going to war. ... I hope not.

When told about Fords attempts to pit workers in Germany and Spain against each other in a fratricidal competition to save jobs, a worker at Ford Kansas City Assembly said, Thats awful. Even more so if their union reps are being crooked.

She said she hoped the workers can call an emergency meeting, and if neither place gives up anything they cant close both. They need to get in contact with each other and strengthen their stance.

They should all strike together. Connect over Facebook or whatever they use in those counties and strike at the same time. If she were in a position to make such a decision, she said, shed call a strike at all the plants in the US in solidarity.
Sales rise 9.87% to Rs 5707.47 crore

Net profit of Apollo Tyres declined 49.63% to Rs 223.54 crore in the quarter ended December 2021 as against Rs 443.81 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2020. Sales rose 9.87% to Rs 5707.47 crore in the quarter ended December 2021 as against Rs 5194.66 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2020.5707.475194.6613.0219.83651.67948.10307.38620.81223.54443.81

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FILE PHOTO: A security guard stands outside the U.S. Embassy in Havana

By Jonathan Landay

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Some of the 1,000 U.S. diplomats and intelligence officers hit by a mysterious illness known as Havana Syndrome could have been targeted by electromagnetic energy pulses, according to a report to U.S. intelligence leaders released on Wednesday.

"Pulse electromagnetic energy, particularly in the radio frequency range, plausibly explains" the ear pain, vertigo, and other symptoms of some of those suffering the ailments first reported by U.S. diplomats in the Cuban capital in 2016, experts from inside and outside the U.S. government said.

The panel of experts was convened by Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines and CIA Deputy Director David Cohen.

The combination of symptoms "cannot be easily explained by known environment or medical conditions" among a subset of victims. The number of those people was not disclosed in the report's unclassified executive summary.

Cases have been reported in Russia, China, Tajikistan and some African countries.

The findings echo a 2020 National Academy of Sciences study and follow a Jan. 20 interim CIA report that concluded that it was unlikely that Russia or another foreign adversary was behind most of the so-called "anomalous health incidents."

The CIA report, however, said there were about two dozen cases of the 1,000 that remained unexplained.

The report released on Wednesday did not delve into responsibility. But its conclusions will likely fuel frustration among current and former U.S. officials who lack a clear explanation for their chronic afflictions.

"We were not looking at attribution or assigning it to a foreign adversary or actor. We stuck to the causal mechanism," a U.S. intelligence official familiar with the report told reporters.

The findings "reinforce the need for a coordinated, whole of government approach," Mark Zaid, a lawyer representing victims from numerous U.S. government agencies, said in a statement. "These piece-meal agency reviews at times reveal inconsistent and even contradictory results."

Story continues

Eric Lander, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, said in a statement that the panel worked for nearly nine months and was the first of several expert groups to have such extensive access "to intelligence reporting and patient data."

The panel found that the symptoms "are genuine and compelling" based on medical reports and interviews with physicians and victims.

In finding that "pulsed electromagnetic energy" could be the cause, the panel said "information gaps exist" but there are several plausible ways the energy could have been generated "each with its own requirements, limitations and unknowns."

Such sources exist that "are concealable and have moderate power requirements," the report said. "Using non-standard antennas and techniques, the signals could be propagated with low loss" through the air and building materials.

Individuals accidentally exposed to electromagnetic energy signals - which include radio waves, microwaves and X-rays - have reported "sensations" similar to the symptoms reported by Havana Syndrome victims, the report noted.

Ultrasound also could account for the symptoms, but only if a victim was in close proximity to the beam because ultrasound "propagates poorly through the air and building materials," it continued.

Psychosocial factors - which include work demands, stress and depression - cannot alone account for the core symptoms of Havana Syndrome, it said.

The report offered recommendations to help understand, prevent and manage the afflictions, including collecting and coordinating incident and medical data within the U.S. government.

(Reporting by Jonathan Landay; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Grant McCool)
Feral cats hanging around Lions Park and Kiddieland became the stuff of urban legend. They lurked in the shadows, emerging only after the lights at Putt Putt dimmed. They were sinewy balls of malice, their eyes glowing, their screams audible at the nearby Bushs Chicken drive-thru lane.

Making nice with these beasts meant losing a digit, or worse.

But the community cats there now hardly fit that description. One might call them fluffy, though maybe not to their faces. They meander across the rusty train tracks or sit atop what is left of a plastic turtle. Like cattle responding to a rancher at feeding time, they parade toward a security fence knowing refreshments await them on the other side. They purr and groom. Soon crews will continue laying waste to their habitat, preparing Kiddieland for a multimillion-dollar upgrade, but for now, this remains their happy place.

Volunteers galore have taken notice of the cats. They get fed daily, sometimes more than once. The city of Waco has established a feeding station nearby. It is covered with signs, informing the public the city, the Animal Birth Control Clinic and the Humane Society of Central Texas helped put it there.

Local cat person Sarah Key said the feral cat population at Lions Park, North 42nd Street and Bosque Boulevard, has evolved. A brouhaha erupted in 2012 over the cats status. It was decided the best move would be to humanely trap the animals, have them fixed and vaccinated, then relocate them to other feral cat communities.

At one point there were 13 or 14 feral cats. Now Im seeing six to eight, Key said. Cats are smart. They know where they can hang out, where they wont have humans or predators pestering them. They know where they can get food and water, where things are not wild and crazy.

That would describe Lions Park and Kiddieland, a decades-old community treasure now showing its age and then some. Lions Pool closed years ago. The Super Slide was packed away in 2018. The Putt Putt courses became handicapped as reliable attractions. Finances, the parks state of disrepair and ownerships ability to hire and keep staffers demanded action.

Its ninth life hanging in the balance, the park received a reprieve. The city of Waco last summer announced it would assist in tearing down and starting over, pledging $2 million toward revitalization. A massive cleanup followed. The Lions Club auctioned off 150 items, from benches and light poles to the Monkey Mayhem Barrel Ride and Go Gator Coaster. A community advisory group is poised to choose what a revised Lions Park will include.

Meanwhile, those darn feral cats are biding their time.

Concerted efforts to address the issue began in the fall, about the time the Heart O Texas Fair & Rodeo began its run, said Carrie Kuehl, executive director of the Animal Birth Control Clinic. Trapping efforts intensified, the idea being cats in cages would be introduced to the nearby feeding station. Maybe they would dine elsewhere if options extended beyond Lions Park.

We know feral cats are out there, but the animal shelter is not equipped to house and adopt out those cats, Kuehl said. The feeding program was intended to be a humane solution for the middle ground.

Generally speaking the plan has gone smoothly, and there appears to be fewer feral cats on the premises, she said. Unfortunately, the remote feeding station became a drop-off site for some wanting to abandon their own kitties, and she now strives to keep the location secret, Kuehl said.

Lions Club Trust board member John Tipton said the organization is approaching the final stage of site clearing. Winning bidders have been urged to pick up their acquisitions. Heavy equipment is parked here and there. Demolition will begin soon. Targets include what is left of the swimming pool, including the building where guests would change from street clothes to swim trunks. Its roof has collapsed, and squirrels play hide-and-seek there.

Well have another auction at some point, but it wont happen until the community committee decides on the future of the park, Tipton said. There arent nearly the number of cats there as there once was. Most probably have moved off. So much is going on out there, I cant really answer to the cats.

Community concern and attention is such that Key is not worried about the cats at Lions Park or their fate as progress reshapes their home.

As they have for decades, they will adjust. Key said most are healthy, fixed and well suited to looking elsewhere for sustenance. She said the city has been an excellent partner, keeping volunteers informed of when fences would go up, inhibiting cat movements, and assisting with feeding efforts.

Trapping the cats and hauling them into rural areas does not represent a solution, since they know nothing about defending themselves from coyotes and are proficient at returning to where they came from, Key said.

It would be like relocating squirrels from trees, Key said.
The strongest case for the work of the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, and for that committee to move quickly to public hearings, is that former President Donald Trump continues to make it clear that he set out to undermine democracy, that he sees nothing wrong with having done so, and that he would do it again if given a chance.

Id prefer to ignore what Trump is saying, but thats not really an option. Hes acting like a presidential candidate  he is, as the political scientist Josh Putnam puts it, running for 2024, although we wont know for some time whether hell be running in 2024  so he cant just be ignored.

Over the weekend, Trump told a rally audience in Texas that if he was returned to the presidency he would pardon  well, consider pardoning, but the message was pretty clear  those who invaded the Capitol on his behalf. Theres nothing new about Trumps abuse of the presidential pardon power as a partisan and personal weapon. He was also explicit when in office about his desire to use the power of prosecution the same way, and resented being unable to persuade the Justice Department to go along. Still, we should not stop being shocked by a former president, and perhaps a future president, so dismissive of the rule of law.

Also over the weekend, Trump once again made it clear that he had wanted Vice President Mike Pence to overturn the election on Jan. 6, 2021, the day Pence exercised his constitutional obligation to approve the certification of Joe Bidens 2020 victory. As The Washington Posts Aaron Blake points out, Trumps statement dispenses with the (totally bogus) scheme that supposedly justified such an action by Pence under the law and the Constitution; Trump simply thinks that Pence should have declared the loser of the election to be the winner, full stop. Trumps disdain for the rule of law should retain the power to shock. It should outrage. It certainly should disqualify him from any place in political life ever again.

Remember: One year ago, seven of the 50 Republican senators voted to convict Trump after his second impeachment, and presumably would have voted to remove his eligibility for future office for doing what hes bragging about doing and promising to do again. Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell voted to acquit, but made it clear that he considered Trump guilty as charged and, he said, only refrained from voting guilty because Trump had already left office before the Senate impeachment trial. Several other Republicans seemed to hold the same position as McConnell  most likely enough (given the unanimous votes to convict from the Democrats) to convict, and perhaps enough along with the seven yes votes to constitute a majority of Senate Republicans. Others claimed that the evidence of supporting an insurrection and an attempt to upend the constitutional government of the U.S. was insufficient to convict. I dont recall any Republican senator acknowledging that Trump did what he certainly did but arguing that it was fine for a president to scheme to overturn an election.

But as the author David Frum said on Twitter, Trump never allows his supporters to pretend to be innocent.

The Jan. 6 committee should hold its hearings to make it clear that Trumps boasts are not empty. It is important to detail this extraordinary attempt to destroy U.S. democracy  to make it clear who was involved and how, and who the heroes were. Especially the Republicans, who had to act against partisan interest.

But in important ways, the Jan. 6 inquiry isnt like the Senate Watergate committee hearings of 1972 or the Iran-Contra joint committee hearings of 1987, in which investigators were still piecing together big questions even as the hearings began. I expect the Capitol riot committee to dig up plenty of important details. But this time, we know in advance that Trump is guilty of acting against the Constitution. If anyone ever doubts it, Trump himself is perfectly willing to remind us.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, one of the two Republicans on the Jan. 6 committee, took to Twitter on Sunday to express his view of Trumps claim that Pence could have overturned the election and that it was unfortunate that he did not.

Ill give Kinzinger the final word:

This is an admission, and a massively un-American statement. It is time for every Republican leader to pick a side  Trump or the Constitution, there is no middle on defending our nation anymore.
With its production of Kenneth Lonergans This Is Our Youth, the Silent House Theatre Company edges into more adult territory and strong language than past productions of I and You, Reckless and A Streetcar Named Desire, although the latter would qualify as adult terrain.

Its small, intimate and character-driven as past Silent House productions have been, but the language and content bump it into R-rated material, said assistant director and Silent House co-founder Bradyn Braziel.

Lonergans story focuses on three upscale young adults in 1980s New York with the action confined to a West Side Manhattan apartment. Warren (Nick Marquez), still coming to terms with his sisters murder, has been kicked out of his home and has stolen $15,000 from his well-to-do father. Hes at his friend Dennis Zieglers apartment trying to figure out his next step. A mutual friend, Jessica Goldman (Aedin Waldorf), drops in and Dennis (Colin Selman) seems to be contemplating a next step of either selling some cocaine or seducing Jessica.

Theyre very privileged white kids into drugs and partying because daddy can afford to bail them out, Brazier said.Theyre lifeless kids trying to come to life.

Though set in the Reagan years two generations ago, not much has changed for young people searching for values in a materialistic world. I think a lot of people my age can relate to that, said Brazier, whos assisting director Ryan Kirby in the production.

The plays language led the theater company to move its performances from the Mission Wacos Jubilee Theatre to McLennan Community Colleges Music & Theatre Arts theater. Though serious subjects run through the play, so does a dark wit and humor, enough that the Silent House co-founder calls it a dark comedy.

Regardless, its the sort of play that the new company wants to stage for Waco theater fans.

We want to stretch our audiences and show what were made of, she said.

Friday nights performance will be signed for the hearing-impaired. Winter weather and the closure of MCC have led the theater company to move its Thursday night performance to a Saturday matinee.
Update (12:30 p.m. Thursday): Forecasters say precipitation is continuing mostly in southeast Oklahoma, but another 1-4 inches are possible through Friday across the Tulsa area.

"Additional light to moderate snow is expected to spread across much of eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas beginning this afternoon and continuing into tonight. This activity is expected to end by sunrise Friday as the responsible storm system exits the region," according to National Weather Service Tulsa.

Update (7:20 a.m. Thursday): National Weather Service Tulsa said 6 inches of snow was recorded near 91st and Yale in an updated storm report.

The radar has mostly cleared over Tulsa, with more snow expected later Thursday.

City of Tulsa crews are running 44 plow trucks working to clear snow during the daytime lull in the storm, according to Tulsa Street Maintenance Manager Tim McCorkell.

"Refuse and recycling collections are impacted due to the weather, with trucks unable to safely provide services in residential neighborhoods today," the city said in a news release asking customers to "be patient, keep their bins on the curb, and wait for crews to pick them up whenever neighborhood street conditions improve."

Tulsa County Engineer Alex Mills said the limited county crews began overnight on 12-hour shifts, focusing on arterial roads and pathways to hospitals. A portion of 49th West Avenue between West 31st and 41st streets is closed, as the hill there presents "treacherous conditions."

Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency Director Joe Kralicek said most indicators are positive early Thursday, but travel remains challenging. He asks people to stay home, noting "large numbers of rescues of stranded and stuck motorists" reported overnight.

The concern in daytime hours, he said, will come if the sun melts a top layer of moisture on roads, adding to those dangerous conditions for "overconfident" drivers.

Update (5:30 a.m. Thursday): A winter storm warning has been extended through 3 a.m. Friday.

"Another round of moderate to possibly heavy snow is expected to move in from the west late this afternoon and continue through the overnight," forecasters said early Thursday. "An additional 1 to 2 inches of snow is generally expected. ...

"Pockets of 2 to 4 inches of snow will be possible across mainly northeast Oklahoma this evening and overnight where the most favorable dynamics will exist."

Forecasters at the National Weather Service office in east Tulsa said they measured 5.4 inches of powdery snow, with the heaviest overnight snowfall likely just south of the Tulsa metro.

"Another interesting meteorological phenomena that will probably happen today is lake effect snow," meteorologist Tyler Snider said early Thursday. "Lake Oologah seems to be a prime candidate today as the lake will align almost perfectly with the wind direction."

Update (4:45 a.m. Thursday): As of about 1 a.m., 4 inches of snow were recorded in Tulsa, and 6 inches in Okmulgee. The Tulsa area is still seeing snow early Thursday, with wind gusting to 25 mph or more.

Update (10:30 p.m.): Snow dominated the precipitation type across northeast Oklahoma on Wednesday evening, forecasters said.

Three inches of snow had fallen by 8:33 p.m. at the National Weather Service's official measuring site at the Tulsa International Airport.

Temperatures in Tulsa were around 20 degrees at 10 p.m., with sustained winds ranging from 16 mph to 20 mph. Gusts reached as high as 29 mph.

An elevated freezing line was located southeast of Henryetta, which allowed for sleet to mix in with snow from Pittsburg County to Arkansas, forecasters said.

A surface freezing line was located from Hugo to Fort Smith, Arkansas, producing rain showers south of the line.

Forecasters also said snow will continue to fall in northeast Oklahoma overnight, and the surface and elevated lines will continue to move southeast, pushing the sleet into southeast Oklahoma.

Snowfall amounts north of Henryetta to Grove could range from four to six more inches overnight, and five to seven inches more in areas from Henryetta to Muskogee.

Freezing rain will remain common throughout southeast Oklahoma.

Update 9:20 p.m.: EMSA officials report that as of 8:30 p.m. Wednesday they had responded to six cold-exposure calls in the Tulsa area; three of the patients were transported to hospitals.

EMSA also reports that it had not seen a noticeable increase in injury collisions or slip-and-fall calls today, so far.

As road conditions worsen, Tulsa Transit announced that it will operate only snow routes on Thursday.

Officials encouraged riders to stay home if possible, but if they have to travel, they should dress warmly and plan extra time for commutes.

Riders can use the SPOT app to track buses to help limit their wait times in the cold weather, and they can also text 56520 to get bus arrival times on their phones.

We want all riders and drivers to stay safe during this winter weather, said Randy Cloud, Tulsa Transit interim general manager. We encourage riders to download the SPOT app to help minimize their wait time in the cold, and we thank them for their patience as we provide as much service as we can during this time.

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation said crews are treating highways in the Tulsa area and across the state.

Update 8:30 p.m.: Meteorologists at the National Weather Service in Tulsa said that as of 6 p.m., 1.2 inches of snow had fallen at their official measuring site at the Tulsa International Airport.

The Tulsa area has so far not been largely affected by power outages, according to PSO.

Fewer than five PSO customers are without power in two small outages in the Tulsa area, according to the company's outage map.

The Oklahoma City area, however, is experiencing more power outages.

A large outage in the southwestern part of the Oklahoma City metro area is affecting nearly 3,000 customers from Tuttle to Blanchard, PSO reports.

OG&E reports over 6,500 of its Oklahoma City-area customers are without power in an outage stretching from Yukon to the Will Rogers World Airport.

Update: 5:16 p.m.: Most Tulsa-area school districts will not have in-person classes on Thursday. Some will consider Thursday a snow day, while others will have distance learning.

Update 4:45 p.m.: Sleet and light snow has begun falling in the Tulsa area.

The National Weather Service in Tulsa said Tulsa will only accumulate less than 0.01 inches of ice, but places farther south, such as McAlester and Hugo, can expect as much as 0.75 inches of ice.

As for the sleet and snow, Tulsa can expect anywhere from 8 inches to a foot of accumulation through early Friday, with the heaviest precipitation falling Wednesday evening and night.

Forecasters said precipitation will taper off from west to east late Wednesday but that "measurable amounts" will linger into Thursday in some areas.

Oklahoma Gas and Electric has reported power outages in the Oklahoma City area, Enid and Sulphur affecting 545 customers, but the Public Service Company of Oklahoma has not yet reported any sizeable outages in northeastern Oklahoma or any of its coverage areas.

Tulsans should see a break later from the precipitation that has started to make elevated roads slick as the temperature dropped Wednesday morning, but the winter storm is expected to arrive at full power after 6 p.m.

According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, the wintry mix should slow down by mid-morning, with freezing drizzle still possible through the afternoon.

Forecasters say the more significant wave of precipitation will begin late Wednesday afternoon, with snowfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour expected through Thursday.

Chances of snow increase after 3 p.m., according to the National Weather Service forecast, with total daytime accumulation of less than half an inch possible.

Tulsa County opted to close facilities at 3 p.m. "due to the drastic deterioration of the weather forecasted for this afternoon," according to a news release. County headquarters and the courthouse will also be closed Thursday.

The warning notes dangerous wind chills in the forecast late Wednesday with 20-30 mph gusts and temperatures in the lower teens and single digits.

"Light snow will continue into Thursday morning with minor accumulations possible across the area," according to forecasters.
San Francisco: Facing regulatory hurdles, the cryptocurrency dream of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is officially over as the company has sold its digital coin known as Diem for around $200 million to Silvergate, a crypto-focused bank.

Originally launched as Libra and later renamed as the Diem Association, the cryptocurrency initiative faced regulatory backlash, and the US Federal Reserve was a key opponent to Diem launching.

"Despite giving us positive substantive feedback on the design of the network, it nevertheless became clear from our dialogue with federal regulators that the project could not move ahead. As a result, the best path forward was to sell the Diem Group's assets, as we have done today to Silvergate,a said Diem Networks CEO Stuart Levey.

"We remain confident in the potential for a stablecoin operating on a blockchain designed like Diem's to deliver the benefits that motivated the Diem Association from the beginning," he said in a statement late on Monday.

Over the coming weeks, the Diem Association and its subsidiaries expect to begin the process of winding down.

The Libra Association in December 2020 decided to change its name to Diem Association in a bid to reinforce its organisational independence.

The Diem Association (Diem means day in Latin) also had its subsidiary called Diem Networks to serve as the payment system operator.

Facebook and 20 partner organisations formally joined the digital currency project during a meeting in Geneva in October 2019.

In a move to win regulators' hearts, the association had announced that its cryptocurrency will offer stable coins backed by just one nation's currency, meaning some coins offered would serve as the equivalent value of a dollar or a euro.

However, several heavyweights pulled out of the Libra project, like PayPal, Mastercard, Visa, Mercado Pago, eBay, Stripe and Booking Holdings and Vodafone over privacy concerns.

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Fifteen days after Election Day in 2020, James R Troupis, a lawyer for the Trump campaign in Wisconsin, received a memo setting out what became the rationale for an audacious strategy: to put in place alternate slates of electors in states where the then President Donald Trump was trying to overturn his loss.

The memo, from a lawyer named Kenneth Chesebro, may not have been the first time that lawyers and allies of Trump had weighed the possibility of naming their own electors in the hopes that they might eventually succeed in flipping the outcome in battleground states through recounts and lawsuits baselessly asserting widespread fraud.

But the November 18 memo and another three weeks later are among the earliest known efforts to put on paper proposals for preparing alternate electors. They helped to shape a crucial strategy that Trump would embrace with profound consequences for himself and the nation.

Also Read  Donald Trump directly involved in plans to seize voting machines

The memos show how just over two weeks after Election Day, Trumps campaign was seeking to buy itself more time to undo the results. At the heart of the strategy was the idea that the real deadline was not December 14, when official electors would be chosen to reflect the outcome in each state, but January 6, when Congress would meet to certify the results.

And in that focus on January 6 lay the seeds of what became a pressure campaign on Vice President Mike Pence to accept the validity of a challenge to the outcome and to block Congress from finalising Joe Bidens victory  a campaign that would also lead to a violent assault on the Capitol by Trump supporters and an extraordinary rupture in US politics.

It may seem odd that the electors pledged to Trump and Pence might meet and cast their votes on December 14 even if, at that juncture, the Trump-Pence ticket is behind in the vote count, and no certificate of election has been issued in favor of Trump and Pence, the November 18 memo said. However, a fair reading of the federal statutes suggests that this is a reasonable course of action.

Federal prosecutors and the House committee investigating the events of January 6 have recently confirmed that they are examining the effort to submit alternate slates of electors to the Electoral College. On Friday, congressional investigators issued subpoenas to 14 people who claimed to be official Trump electors in states that were actually won by Biden.

The two memos, obtained by The New York Times, were used by Trumps top lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, and others like John Eastman as they developed a strategy intended to exploit ambiguities in the Electoral Count Act, according to a person familiar with the matter.

The memos were initially meant to address Trumps challenge to the outcome in Wisconsin, but they ultimately became part of a broader conversation by members of Trumps legal team as the President looked towards January 6 and began to exert pressure on Pence to hold up certification of the Electoral College count.

Neither Troupis nor Chesebro responded to requests for comment about the memos. Even before the memos were written, legislative leaders in Arizona and Wisconsin sought advice from their own lawyers about whether they had the power to alter slates of electors after the election took place and were effectively told they did not, according to new documents obtained by American Oversight, a nonprofit watchdog group.

Trump has long embraced the scheme. Just this past weekend, he issued a statement reiterating that he was justified in using the process in Congress on January 6 to challenge the outcome and asserting that Pence could have overturned the election.

The plan to employ alternate electors was one of Trumps most expansive efforts to stave off defeat, beginning even before some states had finished counting ballots and culminating in the pressure placed on Pence when he presided over the joint congressional session January 6. At various times, the scheme involved state lawmakers, White House aides and lawyers like Chesebro and Troupis.

In the weeks after the election, Troupis oversaw the Trump campaigns recount effort in Wisconsin, which ultimately showed that Biden had won by more than 20,000 votes. In early December 2020, Troupis filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Trump campaign that sought to invalidate the use of absentee ballots in Milwaukee and Dane counties, which both have large numbers of Black voters.

At a hearing in front of the Wisconsin Supreme Court, one justice, Rebecca Dallet, noted that Troupis had not sought to invalidate votes in Wisconsin's 70 other counties but had focused only on the most nonwhite, urban parts of the state. Another justice, Jill Karofsky, echoed that sentiment, telling Troupis that his lawsuit smacks of racism.

In late December, Chesebro joined Troupis in asking the US Supreme Court to review the question of whether competing slates of electors in Wisconsin and six other contested states could be considered Jan. 6. The high court denied their request.

The language and suggestions in the memos from Chesebro to Troupis closely echo tactics and talking points that were eventually adopted by Trumps top lawyers.

The November memo, for example, called January 6 the hard deadline for settling the results of the election and advised that the Trump campaign had nearly two months for judicial proceedings to challenge the outcome. It also suggested that Trump-friendly electors in Wisconsin needed to meet in Madison, the state capital, on December 14, 2020, the day the Electoral College would be voting.

The second memo was dated December 9, 2020, and expanded on the plan. It set forth an analysis of how to legally authorise alternate electors in six key swing states, including Wisconsin. It noted that the scheme was unproblematic in Arizona and Wisconsin, slightly problematic in Michigan, somewhat dicey in Georgia and Pennsylvania, and very problematic in Nevada.

Rep. Pete Aguilar, D-Calif., a member of the committee investigating the January 6 attack on the Capitol, said that the panel was examining the origins of the plans to put forward alternate electors. The panel already has in its possession memos that were written by Eastman and another Trump lawyer, Jenna Ellis, in late December 2020 and early January 2021; those memos laid out steps for Congress to take to cast aside Bidens electors in key swing states.

We know this was a coordinated effort on behalf of the former president and those around him to overturn a free and fair election, Aguilar said. We continue to learn new and more details. Its incredibly troubling to know the lengths they went to support these efforts in multiple states.

Aguilar said that he and others on the panel believed the plan to use the electors was connected to other aspects of Trumps effort to remain in power, such as proposals to seize voting machines and to put intense pressure on Pence to throw out legitimate electoral votes.

We need to know the depth of that plan, and we need to know the different ways in which they sought to operationalise their theory, he said.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
Fox News host Tucker Carlson swatted away excuses from the Baltimore school system and name-calling by the city's mayor as he again took the Democrat-run bastion to task for letting down its students and its citizens.

'Last night we dared to tell you about the ongoing tragedy of the city of Baltimore, one of the great American cities,' Carlson said on Wednesday.

'A city filled with people in total misery, a city with people being murdered and children who can't read.'

He noted that the mayor of Baltimore, Brandon Scott, responded angrily to his segment.

'We don't have any room for racist vitriol in our city or time for comments that don't contribute towards building a better Baltimore,' tweeted Scott, 37.

'I remain focused on reversing the deep-rooted systemic inequities that have plagued our communities for longer than Tucker Carlson has been alive.'

Carlson replied that there was 'no definition of exactly why they are angry at us, because we told the truth.'

The Baltimore schools district defended its floundering system and blamed the pandemic after Carlson singled out Patterson High School, where 77 percent of students were reading at an elementary level.

On Wednesday, the school district insisted that the scores cited were not the only marker of achievement for their students.

They said that the tests, taken in September 2021, were intended to help teachers assess the level of students after over a year of remote learning.

'i-Ready scores do not provide a complete or final picture of student performance,' the schools said, referring to the site that tracks students.

'City Schools uses i-Ready to provide checkpoints on student progress during the school year.

'This was the first in-person checkpoint for students at Patterson High School after 18 months of disruption caused by the pandemic.'

They also emphasized that 40 percent of the students did not have English as their first language, and would in further tests be given special consideration.

Tucker Carlson on Wednesday night revisited his criticism of Baltimore's political leaders

Carlson on Tuesday referred to Baltimore as being 'broken'

Brandon Scott, the mayor of Baltimore, accused Carlson of spreading 'racist vitriol'

Carlson maintained that his report into the 'misery' of Baltimore was valid.

'The kids can't read, more people are being murdered in Baltimore than ever in its history, people have allowed this to happen,' he said Wednesday.

'They didn't like it when we called them out for it last night.'

Tucker was joined by Fox colleague Trace Gallagher during the segment.

'It is a disgrace letting black people die and calling me racist if I pointed it out,' Carlson said.

'That is not going to work anymore, pal.'

Trace Gallagher told him: 'What they are saying is you didn't do your homework.

'But you were saying last night the test scores have dropped dramatically.

'And the Baltimore schools came back with this, saying that test scores don't define the students.

'But they failed to explain what does define students, considering test scores are a widely used barometer of students' ability.

'They went on to say you criticize them for being limiting or stopping of arresting students who commit crimes and their response to that was they arrest students who commit crimes when it's appropriate, but again they didn't define what exactly is appropriate.'

On Tuesday night, Carlson said democracy in the U.S. was failing under Democrats and that the proof was in Baltimore, which has embraced progressive criminal justice policies yet continues to have one of the highest murder rates in the nation.

Carlson mocked recent conversations about democracy being in danger and instead said the real danger was when Democrats focus on issues like race and climate change rather than on the safety issues facing cities like Baltimore, which has seen more than 300 homicides a year since 2015.

Carlson called Baltimore 'one of the worst places in the western hemisphere'.

The city reported 32 murders in 2022.

'That's the deadliest January in Baltimore in nearly 50 years and remember, fifty years ago, Baltimore was almost twice as big as it is now,' Carlson said.

The city's population shrank from nearly one million residents in the 1970s to about 580,000 in 2020, according to the U.S. Census.

'Half the city is left. So Baltimore is far worse off than it has ever been in its history.'

He added that 'Baltimore is exactly what happens when you apply Jen Psaki's ideas to governing.

'Baltimore is a city run by people who fervently believe in the equity agenda and consider gender studies a legitimate academic discipline. In Baltimore, pretty much everyone in charge is black, yet it's a matter of religious faith that the main thing holding the city back is white racism.'

Tucker Carlson said democracy in the US was failing on Tuesday night as he cited the high homicide rates in Baltimore

Baltimore continues to see some of the highest murder rates in the nation as the city continues to report more than 300 homicides every year since 2015

Baltimore broke its annual per capita homicide record after reaching 348 killings in 2019. Homicides have remained high, with the city reporting 337 murders in 2021

Carlson said the high crime rate could be partially attributed to Baltimore's District Attorney, Marilyn Mosby, 41, who announced last year that she would stop prosecuting people for drug possession, prostitution, minor traffic violations and other low-level offenses.

Mosby has been under fire herself, and in January she was charged with perjury for allegedly lying about financial hardship when she withdrew $81,000 from her 401k under the Cares Act to buy two new holiday homes in Florida.

But critics have hit back at Carlson, saying that he was being racist toward a predominantly back city and comparing it to Haiti.

David Simon, creator of the hit series 'The Wire,' which was based in Baltimore, tweeted: 'Here now at a bar on Aliceanna Street with some friendly neighbors where we are presently sticking pins in a Tucker Carlson doll. Doll seems to like it a bit too much in its nether regions.'

One Twitter user named Caroline Orr Bueno wrote: 'The reason Tucker Carlson (and Trump, etc) keep trashing Baltimore is because it has a large black population. It's really that simple.'

Another Twitter user with the handle name GusstheLawyer agreed and criticized Carlson for ignoring the nation's racially-charge policies in the past, writing: 'Baltimore has black people in it so it must be compared to a struggling predominantly Black nation. Fun fact, the causes of trouble in both places are directly tied to racist US policy.'

Jonathan McIntosh, another Twitter user who grew up in Baltimore wrote: 'Baltimore is also a majority Black city, but I'm sure that's not at all the exact reason Tucker hates it.'

Carlson's comments also echoed those of Donald Trump in 2019, when the former president called Baltimore a 'rodent infested mess' where 'no human being would want to live,' and that it was 'worse than Honduras.'

Many accused Carlson of racism for focusing his segment on a predominantly black community and likening it to Haiti

Throughout his segment, Carlson also repeatedly took jabs at Joe Biden and Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who he said were more preoccupied in the current conflict at the Ukraine-Russian border than on the safety of Americans at home.

It also comes after Psaki said that those who are worried about 'soft-on-crime policies' are living 'in an alternate universe.'

'Hey, Jen Psaki, what do you think of Baltimore? How did the city get that way,' Carlson kept asking throughout the show.

'You claim to care so deeply about African-Americans. You never stop talking about that. And yet here is one of the biggest Black majority cities in the United States. Tens of thousands of black people who live in Baltimore are in misery because their kids keep getting murdered.'

Baltimore, often ranked high among the cities with highest homicide rates in the nation, had recorded 337 murders in 2021, the highest since 2019, where police reported 348 murders.

In January, the city continues to see high violent crime rates as it reported 225 aggravated assaults, 52 shootings, 51 carjackings and 203 robberies.

The city also reported 248 burglaries and 978 other cases of property crimes in January.

Baltimore saw more than 1,800 crimes in the first month of 2022

Carlson blamed the high crime rate partially on Baltimore District Attorney Marilyn Mosby, who stopped bringing charges for a string of less serious crimes last year

Mosby said that low-level offenses were 'discriminately enforced against black and brown people'. Pictured is a file photo of a man being arrested in Baltimore

'Who do you blame for Baltimore? Did white men do this to Baltimore? Was it the patriarchy? Was it structural racism that caused all those murders,' Carlson asked.

'Or, could it be that the real problem with Baltimore is something much more obvious? Could it be that progressive policies designed to 'lift up marginalized communities' in the end destroyed those communities?'

Carlson also blamed high crime rates in the city on schools after the Baltimore City School District spent the last decade pushing to reduce the number of student arrests, which dropped from 971 in 2008 to 18 in 2018, according to Fox 45's Project Baltimore.

One whistleblower in the district told Fox 45 that the arrests have not gone down because schools were safer, but because police officers have been told not to arrest students even for crimes like burglary and assault.

'I think it's ludicrous and sad,' said one of the whistleblowers.

'You're not teaching people, our kids, that it's not okay to burglarize. It's not okay to have a fight. They should be arrested and processed.'

Carlson mocked the policies in Baltimore and said the city and progressives were the only ones to blame for its issues.

'Baltimore is a city run by people who fervently believe in the equity agenda and consider gender studies a legitimate academic discipline,' he said.

'In Baltimore, pretty much everyone in charge is black, yet it's a matter of religious faith that the main thing holding the city back is white racism.'
With a high-powered role in the glamorous world of diamond sales, living at Woolloomooloos luxurious Cowper Wharf Roadway and enjoying millions of dollars in allegedly ill-gotten investments from clients, life was looking good for Richard Ayoub.

I have [a] stellar record of identifying profitable business growth opportunities, designing and executing brand promotional strategies, and conducting market research, he said on his LinkedIn profile.

Richard Ayoub is accused of scamming retirees of $2.8 million.

While others take pride in meeting all standards set before them, my passion is for delivering service that goes beyond organizational expectations, creating a win-win scenario for everyone involved!

The 53-year-old American, living in Australia on a working visa, had also allegedly earned $2.8 million in just over a month.
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Crowdfunding site GoFundMe has been accused of bowing to left-wing political pressure by freezing a fundraising account holding $8million in donations for the Freedom Convoy that's protesting Canada's vaccine mandates.

A GoFundMe campaign that was organized to support the Canadian truckers demonstration and which has raised more than $10million CAD was suspended again on Wednesday night

The account, which has raised $10million Canadian dollars ($8million USD), was suspended on Wednesday night for a second time, prompting many to ask questions about the organization's motivations at a time when left-wing outrage has spiked over the thousands of truckers and their supporters who have brought chaos to border crossings and Canada's capital with their anti-mandate protest.

The timing of the second suspension seems suspicious to some because GoFundMe has flip-flopped over whether to allow the fundraiser to continue. The account was first frozen last week, when it totaled $5million in donations, because GoFundMe wanted to determine exactly where the funds would go. It was provided with an explanation by the organizers and two days later, seemingly satisfied, the crowdfunding site unlocked the account allowing donations to continue and released $1million in donated funds. But now it has been frozen again, after days of political pressure from left-wing politicians who have blasted the truckers as 'mercenaries.'

Liberal politicians are now saying the frozen funds should be seized by the government. However, some donors reportedly received emails on Thursday that they were being refunded but were given no explanation as to why. DailyMail.com reached out to GoFundMe on Thursday to inquire about refunds but was referred to the company's statement from the previous day.

The convoy group has now also hired a team of lawyers and accountants, with organizer Benjamin Dichter telling the Toronto Sun they 'figure we will have to waste maybe $10,000 to $30,000 on legal fees to snap GoFundMe back into place.'

Now entering its sixth day, the protest, its organizers and supporters have been a thorn in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's side since last week when they started a slow-moving convoy to the Canadian capital of Ottawa where they arrived at the weekend. Others, in solidarity, blocked a busy border crossing between Alberta and Montana. Trudeau, who was moved from Ottawa into hiding in a secret location ahead of their arrival in his home city at the weekend has since refused to meet with them because of their 'hateful rhetoric'.

Ottawa City Councilor Diane Deans, a member of the country's Liberal Party said: 'I want to ask the Mayor [Jim Watson] if he will pick up the phone and call GoFundMe in the States directly and demand that they cease and desist sending money to these unlawful protesters.'

Deans said she's been in conversations about suing GoFundMe but did not elaborate about the alleged talks with the company.

She added: 'We need to cut off the pipeline of funding to these people - mercenaries, if you will - that are unlawfully protesting and occupying our communities.'

The company's sudden about-face Wednesday sparked a storm of swift backlash on Twitter, with many accusing GoFundMe of succumbing to the political pressure of liberal lawmakers.

Ralph Norman, the US rep for South Caroline said: 'GoFundMe suspended the Canadian truckers "Freedom Convoy" page yesterday after it raised $10 million. Big tech is the enemy of freedom.'

Another user accused liberal lawmakers of trying to make off with the cash to benefit their own political careers.

A protester with the Freedom Convoy stands in front of the big rigs around Parliament Hall on Thursday

Police are seen patrolling a barricade while truckers continue their protest in the Canadian capital, which entered its sixth day on Thursday

'Those who thought they were supporting truckers and those like minded are finding that they have been grifted,' tweeted user Toowoozy. 'Political/economic interests are siphoning up what was intended for a specific ppl movement, is now taking $ for their own political/economic gain.'

Others have pointed out the double standard exhibited by the fundraising outfit, who have previously banned other causes not supported by liberals, like the crowd-funding campaign for Kenosha shooter Kyle Rittenhouse's legal defense, while allowing liberal-led movements like Black Lives Matter to raise money on their site.

'GoFundMe banned people from raising money for Kyle Rittenhouse's defense and froze donations to the Canadian truckers. But they did allow people to raise bail money for people arrested for burning down cities in the BLM riots,' Greg Price wrote.

The company, which is based in California's Bay Area, has a history of banning causes associated with conservatism. It also has no qualms backing hundreds of fundraisers for movements such as Black Lives Matter, whose members have been linked to multiple violent incidents in recent years and whose leaders have recently been warned they will be held personally liable if they fail to disclose details of $60million in donations, or risk having the group's tax-exempt status revoked.

Last year, the company barred organizers from raising money for legal fees for Illinois teen Rittenhouse, 19, who traveled from his home in Chicago to a Black Lives Matter protest in Wisconsin with an AR-15, where he shot dead two people who attacked him.

At the time, the site asserted that Rittenhouse had been banned because he was accused of a violent crime - despite the widely known legal principle that those charged with a crime are innocent until proven guilty.

After the teen was found not guilty in November, however, the company lifted its ban.

In 2020, GoFundMe suspended conservative activist Candace Owens after the Fox News fixture launched a fundraiser on the website for an Alabama cafe whose owner criticized George Floyd, a black man killed by a white Minnesota cop while being arrested for allegedly buying a pack of cigarettes from a local convenience store with a counterfeit $20 bill.

Owens raised more than $200,000 for Birminghams Parkside Cafe over the course of the weekend, after co-owner Michael Dykes called Floyd a 'thug' in June of that year, and labelled protesters demonstrating against his death in Minneapolis Police custody last week as 'idiots.'

Dykes comments were made in a text message to a co-worker that was later leaked on social media, prompting three employees to quit and sparking outrage online calling for the restaurant to be boycotted.

Owens has also come under fire for her own controversial comments about Floyd at the time, describing him as a symbol of a 'broken culture in black America today,' and said 'the fact that he has been held up as a martyr sickens me.'

The comments prompted GoFundMe to ban Owens from the platform days later, with the company accusing her of spreading 'falsehoods against the black community' in a 'repeated pattern of inflammatory statements.'

The company's sudden about-face Wednesday sparked a storm of swift backlash on Twitter, with many accusing GoFundMe of succumbing to the political pressure of liberal lawmakers

A notice that appeared on the Freedom Convoy donations page Wednesday read: 'This fundraiser is currently paused and under review to ensure it complies with our terms of service and applicable laws and regulations.

'Our team is working 24/7 and doing all we can to protect both organizers and donors. Thank you for your patience.'

The company released another statement later that day, saying that the account met its terms and services at the time of its creation last month.

'We strictly prohibit user content that reflects or promotes behavior in support of violence - in this case, the organizer met our requirements and the fundraiser did not violate our Terms of Service at the time of creation.'

The company says that it has been monitoring the fundraiser to ensure the money - raised from more than 120,000 donations - goes to the intended recipients, and went on to detail the criteria on how it intends to discern the integrity and transparency of the organizers of the fundraiser.

'As the activity surrounding the protest evolves, we have been monitoring the fundraiser to ensure the funds are going to the intended recipients and that the fundraiser remains within our Terms of Service.

'Our monitoring includes maintaining close communication with the organizer as well as collaborating with local law enforcement,' GoFundMe said.

'This process takes time and may slow down the withdrawal process. If the fundraiser does violate our Terms of Service or does not directly benefit the intended beneficiary, we will remove it from the platform,' the site added.

DailyMail.com reached out to GoFundMe Thursday morning to gain clarification as to what led to the company's sudden stance reversal and who made the call to suspend the campaign. The company responded with links to the statement that had been posted the previous day.

Ottawa City Councilors Diane Deans (left) and Mathieu Fleury (right) - both liberals - are calling for funds from a GoFundMe created for the 'Freedom Convoy' truckers protesting Canada's vaccine mandates to be seized by the government

Truck drivers hang a Canadian flag on the front grill of a truck parked in downtown Ottawa, Ontario, near Parliament Hill on Wednesday. Funds raised for food and supplies for the truckers was frozen later that day by the crowd-funding company

Protesters, like the one pictured, are accusing liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of 'tyranny' with his office's new mandate, and attest that the woke politician is endangering their livelihood

Protesters walk with bags past trucks parked on Downtown streets in Ottawa on Wednesday. The demonstrations have been going on for nearly a week

Thousands of protesters railing against the mandate and other COVID-19 restrictions on Canadian truckers descended on the capital late last month on January 29, deliberately blocking traffic around Parliament Hill with their parked rigs. Six days later, and the revelers still have no plans of moving, despite warnings from police that they will be arrested if they continue

Two days before the account was put in limbo, another elected official in Ottawa also demanded the funds be frozen, reportedly in a now-deleted Tweet that outlined a plan to seize the cash raised for the truckers through the account - which surpassed the $10million CAD mark Wednesday - using a network of other influential city officials.

'This morning, I have asked the city manager and city solicitor to immediately launch court proceedings targeting the millions of dollars in funds frozen by @GoFundMe so Ottawa taxpayers are not left holding the bag for these protests,' Ottawa City Councilor Mathieu Fleury, also a liberal, reportedly tweeted Monday morning, in a post archived by other users' screenshots.

The tweet, however, was taken down before noon that day. As of Thursday, the parliament member's Twitter account was restricted to only allow 'approved followers' to see his tweets, which was not the case at the time of the initial post. It is currently unclear when exactly Fleury protected the account.

Fleury's website, mathieufleury.ca, does not have a working 'Contact Us' page, and instead shows a 'Page not found' error message.

The GoFundMe page in question surpassed its goal of $10million CAD as of Wednesday - a sum roughly half a million CAD more than funds raised by all of the major Canadian political parties in the final quarter of 2021.

Prior to their funds being frozen, Freedom Convoy organizers BJ Dichter and Tamara Lich said that the proceeds will go toward fuel for the truckers, who have been protesting for five days straight with no sign of stopping despite warnings from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as well as food and lodgings 'to help ease the pressures of this arduous task.'

'Our current government is implementing rules and mandates that are destroying the foundation of our businesses, industries and livelihoods,' the two say on the page.

'We are a peaceful country that has helped protect nations across the globe from tyrannical governments who oppressed their people, and now it seems it is happening here.'

Videos released from the nation's capital Wednesday showed the protesters delivering food to the homeless as crowds cheered and waived flags.

Ottawa's chief of police Peter Sloly on Wednesday said his force of 1,500 officers cannot clear the city and may need the help of the nation's military.

'This is a national issue, not an Ottawa issue,' Sloly said. 'I am increasingly concerned there is no policing solution to this.

'There is no lawful authority to seal a city. There's no practical capability to seal a city of this size,' Sloly explained.

'We do not want riots, but all options remain on the table,' he said.

Trudeau, who has re-emerged after going into isolation on January 27 when one of his children tested positive for Covid, said the federal government is working with the Ottawa police to put an end to the protest

'We will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to ensure that people are protected and to ensure that this protest, which is now becoming illegal, does come to an end,' Trudeau said in French in the House of Commons on Wednesday, when asked what the federal government is doing to remove truckers from downtown Ottawa.

Sloly warned that bringing in the military would carry a 'massive risk' and calculated that he would need a force of around 50,000 officers in order to move protesters out of the capital.

Meanwhile, the blockade at a United States border in Southern Alberta seems to be easing up after official truckers blocking access to the border crossing at Coutts agreed to open some blocked lanes.

'Frankly, the protesters feel their message has been heard,' said Chad Williamson, a lawyer representing truckers. 'Nobody wants this blockade to happen any more.'

'Freedom Convoy' truckers and protesters continued on Wednesday to block a border crossing into the US at a village in southern Alberta - one of the country's busiest border crossings - in solidarity with their brethren in Ottawa who have shut down the nation's capital

Ottawa's Chief of Police, Peter Sloly, suggested on Wednesday the Canadian Armed Forces might have to be called in to handle lingering protesters in the capital

A cyclist rides towards a police barricade where trucks are lined up near Parliament hill on Wednesday

Truckers continue their rally against COVID-19 measures and vaccine mandate as they parked in front of Parliament Hill and blocked the streets in downtown Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa residents frustrated with the incessant blare of truck horns and traffic gridlock are questioning how police have handled the demonstration from the start.

Sloly also said there is a 'significant element' of the protest's funding and organization coming from the United States.

'It is a local destination, a provincial demonstration, a national demonstration, and one that has international elements associated to it,' Sloly added.

On the streets, supporters of the Freedom Convoy are said to have been handing out free food to anyone who needs it. According to one of the volunteers, much of it has been donated by locals.

'The freedom convoy truckers are providing free meals for the homeless in Ottawa. Yet the media and Justin Trudeau turn a blind eye to this. It's an inconvenient truth for them,' James Melville tweeted.

How the truckers were funding themselves was made cleared on Wednesday night after a fundraising page set up by the convoy was suddenly shut down.

Organizers were told they needed to explain how the millions of dollars raised funds would be spent.

On Monday, GoFundMe said that they were satisfied in the explanations given.

'Money raised will be dispersed to our Truckers to aid them with the cost of the journey. Funds will be spent to help cover the cost of fuel for our Truckers first and foremost, will be used to assist with food if needed and contribute to shelter if needed,' the page details.

On the streets, supporters of the Freedom Convoy are said to have been handing out free food to anyone who needs it. According to one of the volunteers, much of it has been donated by locals

'The freedom convoy truckers are providing free meals for the homeless in Ottawa. Yet the media and Justin Trudeau turn a blind eye to this. It's an inconvenient truth for them,' James Melville tweeted together with video, seen above

Food is being supplied to those who are present including homeless people

A woman stops to take a photo of signs attached to the fence around Parliament as a trucker protest continues

A Parliamentary Protective Service officer watches over the trucker protest as he patrols on Parliament hill on Wednesday

Thousands of protesters descended on Ottawa over the weekend, deliberately blocking traffic around Parliament Hill.

Police estimate the protest involved 8,000 to 15,000 people Saturday, but has since dwindled to several hundred. But trucks were still blocking traffic.

'We are now aware of a significant element from the United States that have been involved in the funding, the organizing and the demonstrating.

'They have converged on our city and there are plans for more to come,' Sloly had said.

The numbers of protesters were falling on the capital's streets but they have vowed to stay put until all vaccine mandates and restrictions are removed.

'Can you be clear about what you mean?' asked one reporter that was present at the briefing. 'That is alarming to people, and I'd like to hear what we're talking about when we say that.'

Sloly said that various options were being considered including everything 'available to us within the legal bounds from negotiation through to court injunction through to an enforced removal.'

'When you say ''other than police,'' do you mean politics? Do you need military? I don't understand the answer. I understand it's not only police, but then what are those other options that are not police options that we might need?' the reporter asked.

'I think you just listed most of them right there,' Sloly replied.

'Increasingly, as we see demonstrations, not just here, but elsewhere in the country, where there are efforts by strictly a policing action, we are not as confident as we have been that police alone will resolve this situation substantially, never mind in totality.

'Mixing military into a population in the downtown core in a highly volatile demonstration ... may mitigate some risks and may create and escalate a whole bunch of other risks.'

Although there were thousands of protesters at the weekend, numbers have fallen but still hundreds remain

Ottawa residents are growing frustrated with the incessant blare of truck horns and traffic gridlock are questioning how police have handled the demonstration from the start

Organizers, including one who has espoused white supremacist views, raised millions for the cross-Canada 'freedom truck convoy' against vaccine mandates. There was a public GoFundMe page.

Many Canadians have been angered by some of the crude behavior of the protesters. Some urinated or parked on the National War Memorial. One danced on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. A number carried signs and flags with swastikas.

The most visible contingent of protesters were truck drivers who parked their big rigs on Parliament Hill.

Some of them were protesting a rule that took effect January 15 requiring truckers entering Canada to be fully immunized against the coronavirus. The Canadian Trucking Alliance has estimated that 85% of truckers in Canada are vaccinated.

The protesting truckers also have received praise from former U.S. President Donald Trump and tweets of support from Tesla billionaire Elon Musk.

A trucker climbs back into his cab draped in a Canadian flag in Ottawa on Wednesday

Police estimate the protest involved 8,000 to 15,000 people Saturday, but has since dwindled to several hundred. But trucks were still blocking traffic

In southern Alberta, truckers are still blocking the Canada-U.S. border with Montana but there are signs of a move towards resolving the protest blockade

The demonstration began as a move to force the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to drop a vaccine mandate for cross-border truckers. It has since turned into a more populist anti-Trudeau movement.

'We understand your frustration ... but the responsibility for your inconvenience lies squarely on the shoulders of politicians,' protest leader Chris Barber said in a statement to Ottawa residents.

'We are here and we are not going anywhere until we achieve our objective, to see an end of all COVID-19 mandates and with that a restoration of freedoms of all Canadians,' he said.

Meanwhile, 2,000 miles across the country in southern Alberta, truckers were still blocking the Canada-U.S. border with Montana but there are signs of a move towards resolving the protest blockade.

The truckers, which have been in place since Saturday, are essentially in a standoff with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) over the vaccine mandates.

The RCMP moved in on truckers blockading the U.S. border at the town of Coutts but pulled back after clashes with some drivers.

Chad Williamson, a lawyer representing truckers blocking access to the crossing at Coutts, Alberta, said they spoke with police and agreed to open some blocked lanes. RCMP Corporal Curtis Peters said there were indications that the lane openings might only be temporary.

The tie-up stranded travelers and cross-border truckers for days. Police tried to peacefully break up the demonstration on Tuesday, but demonstrators breached a nearby checkpoint.

Alberta Premier Jason Kenney has condemned the 'unlawful' blockades, calling on protesters to disband and return home.

He told reporters people sympathetic with the protests had assaulted police.

'Without hesitation, I condemn those actions and I call for calm amongst anybody who feels sympathetic to those engaged in this blockade,' said Kenney.

A truck convoy of anti-COVID-19 vaccine mandate demonstrators continued to block the highway at the busy U.S. border crossing in Coutts, Alberta, on Wednesday

The RCMP moved in on truckers blockading the U.S. border at the town of Coutts but pulled back after clashes with some drivers

Anti-COVID-19 vaccine mandate demonstrators continued to block the highway at the busy U.S. border crossing in Coutts, Alberta

A driver crosses an open lane after a breakthrough allowed some trucks to move south
Fifty Shades Of Grey star Jamie Dornan lost his father Jim in March last year, aged 73, after he contracted coronavirus.

And now the actor has spoken about the heartbreaking moment he first heard the news his dad had died.

Jamie, 39, said he felt helpless and was left a 'wreck' as he was stuck in hotel quarantine in Adelaide ahead of shooting his new Stan thriller series, The Tourist.

Devastating: Fifty Shades star Jamie Dornan said he was left a 'wreck' when he was told his father had died while he stuck in isolation in Adelaide ahead of filming The Tourist

'Getting that news no matter where you are geographically is sh**e, you know,' Jamie told News Corp Australia.

'I was stuck out there, denied seeing my sisters, denied seeing my stepmother  not ideal, but you're a wreck no matter where you are when something like that happens to you.'

Despite being in immeasurable pain, Jamie carried on with filming and said the work was a good distraction from his grief.

'Getting that news no matter where you are geographically is sh**e, you know,' Jamie said

'There might be lasting damage, who knows, but at the time it felt like a good distraction,' he said.

Jamie recently described last year as the 'worst year of his life' after losing his father.

Speaking to The Telegraph, he said he struggled to cope with all the praise he received for his latest projects Belfast and The Tourist because of the toll the last year has taken on him.

Despite being in immeasurable pain, Jamie carried on with filming and said the work was a good distraction from his grief

'It's a strange thing to end the year with all this positivity... because on many levels it's been the worst year of my life, and the hardest,' the Irish leading man explained.

Jamie - who had not seen his father for 18 months before his death due to the lockdown and his filming schedule - also revealed that the family still hasn't held a funeral 10 months on from Jim's death, but did not explain the reason for the delay.

Jim died in March aged 73 after contracting coronavirus.

He was a renowned obstetrician and gynaecologist and aside from his medical career, he also took a guest role in his son Jamie's gripping BBC One series The Fall, where he played police board member John Porter, in a 2016 episode.

Discussing his father's passing, Jamie confessed he was devastated by the fact that Jim, whom he called a 'beacon of positivity', would never get a chance to see his latest movie, Belfast.

The film, which takes place in the 1960s, follows the life of a working class Irish family and their young son's childhood.

Jamie plays the role of Pa - a character he says was greatly influenced by his father - and infused with his personality.

The Stan Original, The Tourist is now streaming on Stan.
West Australian Premier Mark McGowan warned the state will be smashed by 'further waves' of Covid after it decides to open up to the rest of the country

Mark McGowan has issued a cryptic warning about how long the West Australian border will be kept shut as Prime Minister Scott Morrison stunned observers by backing the Premier's closed border policy.

The Premier on Thursday warned about the impact of 'further waves' of the virus on the state, during an ABC Radio interview where he was confronted about the social costs of shutting off from the rest of Australia.

'We'll set a date when it's appropriate to do so ... It's not as though there's one wave (of Covid).

'There will be further waves and we need to take that into account'.

'People need to understand that chances are we will get a wave when we open but it may not be the last wave. We don't just go through one and go back to normal'.

It comes as McGowan's position received rare support from Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Asked on Thursday if McGowan did the right thing by delaying the state's opening date, the Prime Minister replied: 'Yeah I think he did.'

'Omicron as we learned over the summer is a completely different virus,' he told Perth Radio 6PR on Thursday.

'The things we were doing before don't work the same way under the Omicron virus and as a result you've got to reset and rethink the things you were doing.'

The nation's chief medical officer, Paul Kelly, also said today that he was expecting a further wave of Covid in winter.

Mr McGowan's critics say the only reason he is keeping the border closed is because he is presiding over a struggling health system, with several hospitals at capacity even without Covid.

Scott Morrison (above, at the National Press Club this week) has backed Mark McGowan's decision to keep Western Australia's border closed

Mr Morrison said the premier knows he will have to open at some stage but confirmed he is waiting until he is confident in the state's health system.

'When his health system he believes is ready to go, I'm sure he'll take that next step,' the Prime Minister said.

Mr McGowan announced his decision to keep the border closed in a dramatic late-night press conference on January 20.

He said he wanted to wait until more Western Australians including children had received booster doses but did not give a new date for re-opening.

'The aim is to get it [the third dose vaccination rate] up above at least 80 per cent, perhaps 90 per cent,' he said.

'But what we are going to do is review the situation over February and watch what is occurring over east and work out what the best approach is for Western Australia.'

Premier McGowan (pictured with wife Sarah) has not announced when his state will open its borders

Only 52.92 per cent of adults have been boosted in WA, raising fears the border could stay closed for moths.

Western Australians have lived relatively normally throughout the pandemic with only a few short lockdowns to quash outbreaks under Mr McGowan's zero-Covid policy.

Covid has spread rapidly over eastern Australia this summer due to the more infectious Omicron variant, but only 0.1 per cent of people infected have died with the disease, according to Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly.

The supportive comments mark a dramatic change of tune for Mr Morrison who in November blasted Mr McGowan for keeping his border shut contrary to the national re-opening plan which said there would be no domestic restrictions once 80 per cent are vaccinated.

All Australians know you can't trust a word Scott Morrison says. He's saying one thing to Perth, and something different in Parramatta Labor health spokesman Mark Butler

'Once you go over 80 per cent and you keep things locked down, you are doing more harm than good to your economy,' Mr Morrison told reporters back then.

Labor Health Minister Mark Butler said the flip-flop showed Mr Morrison was 'fickle' and cannot be trusted.

'All Australians know you can't trust a word Scott Morrison says. He's saying one thing to Perth, and something different in Parramatta,' Mr Butler told Daily Mail Australia.

'West Australians won't forget Scott Morrison's actions  he spent taxpayer funds to try to help Clive Palmer tear down the West Australian border at the height of the pandemic.'

It comes after the Prime Minister - who trails Labor by a massive 12 points in the polls - admitted he has made mistakes over the course of the pandemic.

In a speech at the National Press Club on Tuesday, he admitted three key errors including unfairly raising people's hopes before this summer, not placing the vaccine rollout under military command from the start and poorly managing outbreaks in aged care.

'We could have communicated more clearly about the risks and challenges that we still face,' Mr Morrison said in reference to how he called for an end to restrictions including mask-wearing before the Omicron wave in December.

PM admits three mistakes in pandemic 1. Raising hopes before summer by calling for an end to restrictions 2. Not placing vaccine rollout under military command from the start 3. Poor management of aged care outbreaks Advertisement

'In our communications, we have to be be clear about that. We can't lift people's hopes, then disappointment them. I think that's what happened over the break.'

Mr Morrison had travelled the nation in December calling for state governments to get out of people's lives and demanding a return to normal after two years of Covid restrictions - but just weeks later it became clear that strict rules were still needed as Omicron spread.

'Secondly, on the vaccination program, if I had my time over, I would have put it under a military operation from the outset and not later in the year,' Mr Morrison said.

The Prime Minister said the goal to offer a jab to everyone by October was achieved but admitted the rollout got off to a slow start, prompting him to install Lieutenant General John Frewen as boss of the programme.

'I took the decision to send in General Frewen and change the way we did it, and set up a change in the command structure, how logistics were managed, how it was planned. And it worked. But I wish we'd done that earlier. And that's a lesson,' Mr Morrison said.

In mid 2021 the federal government copped heavy criticism for the slow vaccine rollout which was well behind comparable nations and meant Sydney and Melbourne had to be plunged into four-month lockdowns amid Delta outbreaks.

The Prime Minster also admitted that aged care outbreaks should have been handled better, mentioning one incident at St Basil's home in Sydney when the staff had to isolate and the military had to be sent in.

'The interface between the aged care sector and the public hospital system was blurred. And so, when the storms of Covid hit, that created some real challenges,' he said.

'And in the aged care sector - I remember it was one of the hardest days of the pandemic - with St Basil's.

'We had a whole health workforce stood down because of Covid rules... and I had to send the military in that night.'

Mr Morrison was also criticised after he failed to say the price of bread, petrol and a rapid antigen test.

He was then rocked by allegations Gladys Berejiklian called him a 'horrible, horrible person' in a 2019 text exchange with an unnamed federal cabinet minister who called him a 'complete psycho'.
The Denver-based Daniels Fund announced this week that it reached $1 billion in total overall giving last year, including $6.2 million in grants to nonprofits and for scholarships to students in New Mexico.

Bill Daniels had a vision to make life better for people in the states that meant so much to him, said Hanna Skandera, president and CEO of the Daniels Fund, in a statement. I am sure he would be thrilled to see the impact more than $1 billion invested in our communities has made. Bills generosity will continue to change lives for generations to come.

The fund serves a four-state region of Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.

Multiple communities across New Mexico were helped by $4.5 million in grants to nonprofits last year. The New Mexico grantmaking strategy focuses primarily on education-related initiatives.

Organizations awarded grants included NewMexicoKidsCAN, Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, Albuquerque Charter Academy, Archdiocese of Santa Fe, CHI St. Josephs Children, Excellent Schools New Mexico, Homewise, Hozho Academy, Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation, May Center for Learning, Ngage New Mexico, Public Charter Schools of New Mexico, the Smart Approaches to Marijuana education campaign and Teach Plus New Mexico.

Students in the state received $1.7 million in scholarships through the funds two distinct scholarship programs. The fund also provided grants for ethics education through the Daniels Fund Ethics Initiative.

The fund, established by cable TV pioneer Bill Daniels, is a private charitable foundation. Visit DanielsFund.org to learn more.
CEDAR FALLS  A house near South Main Street and Greenhill Road sustained significant damage in a fire Wednesday evening.

Cedar Falls Fire Rescue responded about 7:30 p.m. to 4124 Spruce Hills Drive. Crews found fire and heavy smoke coming from the residence when they arrived.

In a news release, Fire Chief John Bostwick said firefighters made entry and quickly controlled and extinguished the blaze.

Nearly an hour after their arrival, no flames were visible from the street. Still, smoke could be seen above a portion of the roof as crews continued their work.

Few other details were available, but an official at the scene said the fire was believed to have started around the homes chimney.

A next-door neighbor told The Courier he smelled smoke from his house and saw that part of the roof was on fire. He went over and pounded on the door to alert residents to the situation and called authorities.

The people were able to safely evacuate and there were no injuries, Bostwick said.

Three fire trucks, an ambulance, a Cedar Falls Utilities vehicle and numerous police cars dispatched to the address were still there by 9 p.m.

The flames and smoke resulted in a lot of damage to the house. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Upper Mount Bethel Township residents raised familiar complaints Wednesday about a proposed industrial development along the Delaware River during a state hearing.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection virtual hearing was held only to accept testimony on a permit for a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for a 420,000-square-foot building on Demi Road near the Delaware River, but comments were accepted for the entire River Pointe Logistics Park project. The hearing lasted only about 45 minutes, a brief session for a River Pointe discussion.

Moderator Colleen Connolly of the DEP had to remind the participants a few times that the hearing was for comment only, not questions, and only about the stormwater permit.

Lou Pektor of Bethlehem-based Ashley Development Corp. started off the hearing with a brief description of the Demi Road building. That part of the development covers about 60 acres, and though it has been described as a warehouse, Pektor said the goal is for an industrial use. He has said earlier that the land, near Interstate 80, is suited to higher-value uses than just warehouses.

"At the moment, the (planned) building does not have a tenant," he said. "It's yet to be determined what the ultimate use will be."

Seven people spoke during the hearing, among them Charles Cole. He has helped lead the opposition to River Pointe. Residents and environmental groups have objected to the plan, but River Pointe is on land that is privately owned and zoned for industrial use.

"This wooded piece of property has been relatively undisturbed for a couple hundred years," Cole said of the land, which slopes down to the river. "There are farm fields above and wetland below it with endangered species in the wetland."

"I have to cross (Route) 611 to get my mail," Frances Visicaro said. She expressed concern about traffic and blasting during construction.

Howard Klein said the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, which reviews big developments in Lehigh and Northampton counties, has said roads and bridges near the site of River Pointe are not ready for traffic. He said they should be improved before the development proceeds.

The potential effects on the Delaware River were raised by Sharon Duffield, while Lower Mount Bethel Township Supervisor Samantha Burns said truck traffic in her town is already increasing, even without the proposed development.

A group of residents known as The Concerned Citizens of Upper Mount Bethel Township has formed to fight River Pointe. Their website points to warehouse and industrial proliferation in other parts of the Lehigh Valley: "Macungie, Fogelsville, Lower Nazareth, Tatamy, Palmer lost their fight. UMB Township still has a chance to keep a fabulous quality of life!!!"

Pektor's development team and some township supervisors have said the project will bring jobs and tax revenue to Upper Mount Bethel, Northampton County and the Bangor Area School District, while many residents complain about the end of their rural lifestyle.

Residents may submit written comments to the state about the stormwater permit through 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16. They may be sent to coconnolly@pa.gov and rojevin@pa.gov.
Arunachal Pradesh's COVID-19 tally rose to 62,893 after 237 more people tested positive for the infection, while two new fatalities pushed the death toll to 290, a senior health official said on Thursday.

A 61-year-old woman and a 40-year-old man, both from the Capital Complex Region, died at the Dedicated Covid Hospital at Chimpu, near here, on Tuesday due to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome with Covid Pneumonia, State Surveillance Officer (SSO) Dr Lobsang Jampa said.

The state currently has 2,375 active COVID-19 cases, while 60,228 people have recuperated from the disease thus far in the state, including 357 on Wednesday, the official said.

The COVID-19 recovery rate in the state marginally improved to 95.76 per cent from 95.55 per cent the previous day, he said.

Of the 237 new cases, 56 were registered in the Capital Complex Region, 46 in Lower Subansiri, 19 in East Siang, 17 in Namsai and 15 in West Kameng district.

The Capital Complex Region, comprising Itanagar, Naharlagun, Nirjuli and Banderdewa areas, has the highest number of active cases at 810, followed by Lower Subansiri at 263, West Kameng (146), Papumpare (128) and East Siang at 112 cases.

A total of 12,42,947 samples have been tested for the infection in the state so far, including 2,206 on Wednesday, Jampa said, adding that the positivity ratio dipped to 10.74 per cent from 13.07 per cent the previous day.

State Immunisation Officer Dr Dimong Padung said 15,83,073 people have been inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines so far.

At least 50,303 beneficiaries in the age group of 15-18 years have been vaccinated and 17,475 senior citizens have received the booster jab.

Meanwhile, The government has extended COVID-19 restrictions in the state till February 14 with certain modifications, one of which is permission for vaccinated teenagers to attend physical classes in schools.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Nearly 250 educational institutions under the Unaided Private School Association (UPSA) have threatened to stop online classes and withdraw support during the Assembly election process if the state government does not order resumption of physical classes.

The UPSA said it would wait till February 6 after which it would discontinue all online classes.

It has been opposing the state government's decision on closure of schools by saying that when all public places like parks, markets, railway stations and malls are open, then why schools should remain closed where Covid-19 safety norms are being followed.

The government had issued directives regarding closure of all schools in for offline classes from January 16 to 23. Later, the closure was extended till February 6 considering the Covid-19 situation and schools were asked to conduct online classes.

"The government is calling students for various programmes where Covid-19 safety protocol is being ignored then why it is not allowing schools to conduct classes on the campus," asked UPSA president Anil Agarwal.

He said excessive interference of government in the functioning of private schools, be it fee hike, use of school vehicles in elections, or delay in fee reimbursement to schools for admissions under the Right to Education, was adversely impacting the standard of .

"The government's directive to schools to not to increase the fee will not be accepted. We will increase the fee according to the UP Fee Regulation Act," he added.

Agarwal said schools had to suffer huge financial losses due to pandemic as a number of students had left schools.

The UPSA fears having to shut down their institutions if the state government does not allow them to increase fees.

Agarwal, who is managing director of the St Joseph Group of Institutions, said: "A large number of private schools in have no option but to shut down their schools if the state government does not allow them to increase fees and reopen completely from February 7.

"There was no salary revision of our teachers and staff because schools were not allowed to increase fees. This is affecting their performance. In these trying times, a few member schools will be forced to shut down if the government does not let them increase fees for the third successive year."

Gita Gandhi Kingdon, also president of City Montessori School (CMS), said: "There has been no increase in fees for three years. And it is difficult to deny increment to teachers and staff who have been working in the pandemic."

The UPSA said that efforts are being made by schools so that voting percentage increases in the upcoming assembly Elections.

"But we will do all this only when schools will be allowed to reopen from February 7," said Agarwal.

--IANS

amita/ksk/

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In a press conference Monday, Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, a possible 2024 presidential candidate, refused to denounce violent Nazis and instead accused Democrats of elevating anti-Semites.

DeSantis remarks came after Nazis were permitted this past weekend in central Florida to assault a Jewish college student. In a video prior to Saturdays assault, the Nazis can be heard yelling, Heil Hitler for what he did, and White Power! At another point a Nazi yells, Hes a Jew, look at him! Guess where youre going back to?

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a news conference along with Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls, right, at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

The following day, pictures taken from motorists show the Nazis hanging pro-Trump Nazi flags over Interstate 4 between Disney World and downtown Orlando, Florida. One banner featured swastikas and the words, Lets Go Brandon, a pro-Trump slogan that is code for F--k Joe Biden.

The disturbing incidents occurred one week after fascist propaganda was distributed in Miami and Fort Lauderdale claiming that the coronavirus pandemic is a Jewish conspiracy. According to jewishvirtuallibarary.org, as of 2020 over 657,000 Jews lived in Florida, behind only California and New York.

Despite both incidents being widely reported on social media in real time, provoking international outrage from workers and students of all backgrounds, as of this writing, no arrests have been made.

On Wednesday, Orange County Sheriff John Mina said charges are forthcoming on several people involved in that incident, referring to the assault on the college student.

David Newstat, the victim of the Nazi assault, is a University of Central Florida college student. He explained to Fox 35 that he was driving by a popular mall in Orlando when he came to a stop in front of the Nazi rally on Saturday.

Im trying to go to the store, to Target, and Im coming back home, and Im being berated by Nazis, Newstat told Fox 35. My grandfather was a survivor. Other members of my family were survivors of the Holocaust and migrated to the US after. Its very sad to see people like this can be so ignorant and can have so much hatred built up in their hearts.



One of the Nazis saw an Israeli flag on Newstats car, and spat on him. After that, Newstat said he briefly got out of his car to record the group with his cellphone, whereupon he was spat on again and assaulted. Cell phone video shows the Nazis, in a frenzy, surrounding and punching Newstat.

Im literally Jewish and I got attacked, assaulted, pepper-sprayed, spit on, you name it, Newstat recalled.

While several Florida Democratic and Republican politicians churned out statements condemning the Nazi members of the microscopic National Socialist Movement, Governor DeSantis remained silent over the weekend.

In fact, the first mention someone from the DeSantis administration made concerning the incidents was on Sunday evening, when his press secretary, Christina Pushaw, in a since-deleted tweet questioned if the Nazis, who were wearing all-black paramilitary uniforms with swastika arm patches, carrying Nazi flags, hailing Adolf Hitler and threatening to exterminate Jews, were, in fact, Nazis.



Do we even know theyre Nazis? questioned Pushaw. Or is this a stunt like the white nationalists who crashed the Youngkin rally in Charlottesville and turned out to be Dem staffers? I trust Florida law enforcement to investigate and am awaiting their conclusions.



Questioned by reporters on Monday to respond to the fascist rampage, DeSantis refused to condemn the Nazis and instead blamed the Democrats for allegedly trying to smear him.

So what Im going to say is these people, these Democrats who are trying to use this as some type of political issue to try to smear me as if I had something to do with it, were not playing their game.

He continued, Im not going to have people try to smear me who belong to a political party that has elevated antisemites to the halls of Congress, singling out Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar, one of only three practicing Muslims serving in Congress, and, not incidentally, a frequent target of Republican fascistic incitement.



As the Republicans and their police allies court and abet fascists, the Democrats continue to seek an accommodation with their Republican colleagues, while downplaying the growing threat, seeking to blind the working class to the dangers.

This was expressed in a January 31 interview on the Rachel Maddow show. While Democratic Florida State Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith was able to condemn the Nazis, he sought to obscure the transformation of the Republican Party into a fascist movement.

Somehow some of these extremists and white supremacists are getting the message that it is OK for them to be public with their hatred and anti-Semitism, said Guilllermo Smith (emphasis added).

Reiterating a version of Bidens incessant pleas for unity with Trumps party of fascists and insurrectionists, Guillermo Smith said it was incumbent upon all politicians, Republican and Democrat, to unequivocally condemn this type of hatred and ask, Why are individuals feeling empowered, these neo-Nazis, to come out from the shadows, and why has Florida become such a haven for white supremacists and extremists?



The return of fascism is an international phenomenon rooted in the advanced decay of the capitalist system. As the World Socialist Web Site wrote in yesterdays perspective, Far-right Freedom Convoy besieges Canadas parliamentan inflection point in the breakdown of Canadian democracy:



Unprecedented levels of social inequality, great-power conflict and imperialist war, and the murderous policy of herd immunity are incompatible with democratic forms of rule.



This is why ruling elites in all the major capitalist countries have systematically brought forward far-right and outright fascist forces.

In his refusal to condemn the Nazis, DeSantis is simply following the footsteps of Trump. Prior to inciting fascists, white supremacists and far-right militia members to storm the Capitol on January 6, 2021 in an attempt to overthrow the election of Joe Biden, Trump infamously declared that there were very fine people on both sides of the August 2017 fascist riot in Charlottesville, Virginia, in which 32-year-old anti-racist activist Heather Heyer was murdered by a Nazi.



Trumps former White House adviser Steve Bannon and Trumps coup lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, traded fascist talking points on Bannons War Room Pandemic podcast earlier this week.



After agreeing that there was massive fraud in 2020 election, with Bannon calling for 2.6 million ballots in Pennsylvania to be thrown out, Giuliani and Bannon took turns inciting fascist violence against Holocaust survivor and Jewish billionaire George Soros.



This guy [Soros] has taken over almost every major city. And in almost every single one of them, the proof is in the pudding. They set records for murder last year. Do you realize how much Soros money has been used to get people killed? Mostly African-American kids, said the former mayor of New York City.



Understand what Soros, the reign of terror, hissed Bannon. Its a reign of terror brought on you by these globalist billionaires trying to destroy this country.



In an interview with CNN, Oren Segal, vice president at the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism, noted the recent increase in fascist activity. The reality is, these incidents that have been occurring around the country, are happening at a time of historically high numbers of anti-Semitic incidents... The last four years have been amongst the highest we have ever recorded in 40 years.

Last year, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reported 2,204 anti-Semitic incidents, a slight increase from the year prior and the third highest ever recorded since 1979, the first year ADL began tracking incidents.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's speech in the Parliament on Wednesday has drawn huge flak from the ruling BJP leaders.

The ruling party leaders condemned Rahul Gandhi's remarks related to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, judiciary, Election Commission, unemployment, pegasus spyware and foreign policy.

Reacting to the remarks made by the former Congress chief while addressing the motion of thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Pralhad Joshi said, "The Congress which doesn't have democracy within their party, is talking about our elected Prime Minister in a very very silly manner. I don't understand his mentality and language. He is talking about China and Pakistan, they have been against us since decades, it's a known fact."

"When somebody comes to our home, we always request him to remove shoes outside, it's our culture. We keep separate slippers for home, Rahul Gandhi doesn't understand this. I must say he is a brainless person," Joshi said while reacting to Rahul Gandhi's allegation that a group of politicians from Manipur was "forced to remove their shoes" at Amit Shah's home.

Similarly, Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal said, "It is a religious matter of an individual, as many of us do puja at home and don't allow shoes at home."

Rahul Gandhi, during his speech, "narrated an incident" about Amit Shah alleging that when a delegation from Manipur went to meet Shah, "they were told to remove their shoes, whereas Amit Shah himself was wearing slippers".

The Congress leader, demanding an apology from Shah, has asserted that the Home Minister has "insulted people of Manipur".

Meanwhile, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has sought the Congress leader's apology for his comments on Constitutional institutions- Judiciary and the Election Commission.

"How can he give reference to a matter (pegasus spyware) which is sub judice, he should know the rules," BJP MP Nishikant Dubey interrupted Rahul Gandhi during his speech, quoting the rule.

Meanwhile, responding to the former Congress president's remark that the BJP-led Central government brought "Pakistan and China together", External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said that the two Asian countries have been sharing close ties since the last several decades.

Jaishankar also rejected Rahul Gandhi's allegation that "it is India's faulty foreign policy under the Narendra Modi-led government which made China and Pakistan join hands together against India, and convert into a front".
In one Cayuga County town and a village within the town, there will be points where two congressional districts meet.

State legislators split the town of Brutus into two congressional districts, the newly drawn 22nd and 24th districts. That divide extends into the village of Weedsport, where some streets will be in the 22nd district while others will be in the 24th.

It is unusual for towns to be split into different congressional districts, but it has happened before in Cayuga County. When congressional district maps were redrawn in 2002, the northern half of the town of Conquest was in the 25th district and the southern part of the town was in the 24th district.

There is nothing preventing towns from being split in congressional redistricting. However, for county and state-level redistricting, small towns like Brutus must be kept whole.

Cayuga County Legislator Chris Petrus, who represents Brutus, says he was not surprised when the new maps were released and the town was divided into two districts. But, he added, he does not agree with it.

"I don't see the benefit and I don't know how they arrived at that conclusion," said Petrus, who noted that the county is in the midst of redistricting local legislative lines and can't break up towns in that process. "The hypocrisy is not lost on me when they say you cannot do this and there are all these guidelines and then they come right in, say it does not apply to us and we're going to split Brutus right down the center."

One consequence of the new congressional district maps is that Cayuga County will need to redraw the two election districts in Brutus. The congressional district lines do not match the existing election districts.

Katie Lacey, the Democratic election commissioner in Cayuga County, confirmed the board will need to alter the election districts. She does not expect that it will be a huge undertaking, but it is additional work for the board in an election year.

"It's a very strange line," Lacey said about the new congressional district maps. "It goes through the village of Weedsport like a wild mouse."

The new 22nd district is comprised of counties in central New York, including most of Cayuga County. The cities of Auburn, Ithaca and Syracuse, along with all of Onondaga and Tompkins counties, are among the municipalities in the district.

The 24th is, geographically, much larger. It extends from northern Erie County and Niagara County in western New York to Jefferson County in the North Country. The district includes seven towns in Cayuga County.

U.S. Rep. Chris Jacobs, a Republican, is running for reelection in the 24th district. The 22nd is an open seat after U.S. Rep. John Katko announced he will not seek a fifth term in Congress.

The state Legislature voted on Wednesday to approve the congressional district maps. The legislation must be signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul before the new maps take effect for this year's midterm elections.
A look at fiscal statistics

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

As I read the recent news story about Virginia universities endorsing Gov. Glenn Youngkins proposal to open more charter schools, I was reminded of the old adage advising those who live in glass houses  or in this case, glass luxury dorms  against casting the first stone.

Before throwing their weight behind the governors dubious plan to divert tax dollars away from local schools and toward charters, which by definition operate with less accountability than traditional public schools, perhaps these universities should get their own houses in order.

According to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, our students have an average federal and private student loan debt of $37,098  higher than the national average of $36,689. And Virginia's state universities have the eighth-highest average tuition and fees nationwide, according to the Education Data Initiative. Further, Virginia ranks 41st out of 50 states in average per-pupil K-12 spending, according to a Commonwealth Institute report from last September.

Virginia's public K-12 schools are not perfect, and financial statistics cannot tell the whole story. Virginians are blessed with many great universities, yet their fiscal records suggest they should not be leading the charge for charters.

Before steering resources, talent and students away from local public schools and toward elusive silver bullet approaches like charter schools, leaders should ask themselves two questions: Have they given public schools the support required for innovation and success? And are charter schools really the innovation parents, students, school divisions and my fellow classroom teachers need?

Kevin Cutro.
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LARCHMONT, NY Congressional hopeful Josh Lafazan didn't waste any time campaigning across the Sound in Westchester County after it became clear that Sound Shore towns, including New Rochelle, Larchmont, Rye and Port Chester will soon share representation with parts of Long Island.

At a campaign stop at the Larchmont Metro-North Station, Lafazan used a "ripped from the headlines" cause to introduce himself to Southern Westchester County voters.

Just a few weeks after New York City subway rider Michelle Go was pushed to her death on a subway track, Lafazan, a Democratic candidate for Congress (NY-03), called on the MTA to install platform doors and barriers at the busiest Metro-North stations throughout the system.

SEE ALSO: Nassau Legislator Joshua Lafazan Launches Bid For Congress

Lafazan, a three-term Nassau County legislator who hopes to be the youngest Democrat in the U.S. Congress, stood on the platform in Larchmont on Wednesday and called on the MTA leadership to install barriers before anyone else is injured or killed.

This issue is of paramount importance for the millions of New Yorkers who ride Metro-North every single day, Lafazan said. Horrors like what we saw happen to Michelle Go could be prevented with enough political will and a little bit of capital, which the MTA has, thanks to the recent infusion from Washington. When Im in Congress, I will work to make sure even more resources are available to the MTA and Metro-North to protect the hard-working men and women who rely on the system to get them to and from work without incident. What happened to Michelle should never happen to another New Yorker  and installing barriers will aid tremendously toward that end.

SEE ALSO: County Legislator Named To Forbes' Prestigious '30 Under 30' List

The MTA has looked at installing platform barriers and doors in NYC subway stations several times before over the last 30 years, but not at all Metro-North stations. Metro-North saw more than 87 million annual rides prior to COVID-19 hitting in 2020, according to Lafazan.

Story continues

This week, the New York State legislature is expected to sign off on a plan to add portions of the Bronx and Westchester to New Yorks 3rd Congressional District, which will also include portions of Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties.

Since becoming the youngest elected official in New York State when he won a seat on the Syosset School Board at age 18, Lafazan has been elected County Legislator three times in a district won by former President Donald Trump and Republican Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

He announced his intention to run for the seat in a video on December 13. Since then, he announced he raised $450,000 in a short 18 days through the end of 2021, according to the campaign.

This article originally appeared on the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Patch
A man in Ho Chi Minh City is celebrating Vietnams time-honored tradition of enjoying particular sweets and snacks during the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday with a lifelike clay replica of the delightful treats.

Mut Tet is a traditional snack box enjoyed throughout the country during the Tet holiday season, which lasts a week from Tuesday this year.

Nguyen Tan Dat, a resident of Ho Chi Minh Citys District 3, has been lauded for celebrating mut Tet by crafting a clay model of the beloved snack box.

It took Dat about two weeks to make his clay mut Tet replica. The most difficult part of the process, Dat said, is painting each item.

Nguyen Tan Dat and his box of mut Tet. Photo: Ngoc Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

After Dat shapes each part of his clay mut Tet, he allows them to dry naturally for six hours before coloring and adding patterns.

The 37-year-olds box of mut Tet includes sugar-coated lotus seeds and sliced roots, raisins, sugar- preserved shredded coconut, salted dry apricot, Jujube fruit, and other candied fruits.

Such a box, typically placed in the living room, is a staple in Vietnamese households across the country during the holiday season and usually sits alongside 'hoa mai' (yellow apricot blossoms), 'hoa dao' (peach blossoms), and other traditional Tet foods.

Dat said people had been through ups and downs due to COVID-19, so he wanted to bring everyone some joyful moments looking at his works.

Clay sugar-coated lotus seeds in Nguyen Tan Dats box of mut Tet. Photo: Ngoc Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

Salted dry apricots made from clay by Nguyen Tan Dat in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Ngoc Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

Nguyen Tan Dat uses pulverized paper to create the sugar coating for his clay snacks. Photo: Ngoc Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

Nguyen Tan Dat works on clay with his hands. Photo: Ngoc Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

Sugar-coated ginger slices made from clay by Nguyen Tan Dat in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Ngoc Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

Nguyen Tan Dat colors a shred of clay candied coconut. Photo: Ngoc Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

Nguyen Tan Dat makes Jujube from clay. Photo: Ngoc Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

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Harare  Neglected tropical diseases affect millions of people across Africa, yet the efforts to eliminate them and alleviate the suffering they cause receive little national attention. Professor Nicholas Midzi, an expert in preventive chemotherapy of neglected tropical diseases and the Director of Zimbabwe's National Institute of Health Research, analyses factors contributing to low priority to these diseases and how to reverse the trend.

What leads to low priority of neglected tropical diseases?

Neglected tropical diseases are referred as such because they mostly linger on the lower rungs of the global health agenda. Even today with the focus on ensuring universal health coverage, programmes on neglected tropical diseases receive limited resources and are almost ignored by global funding agencies. This is despite that these diseases affect more than 1 billion people globally and have devastating socioeconomic impacts on the affected communities.

With already inadequate health workers in many African countries, implementing health programmes in areas in which neglected tropical diseases flourish - often rural, hard-to-reach or conflict-hit regions - is a great challenge. Implementing large-scale projects for clean water and sanitation in rural areas is impeded by the general prohibitive costs of construction materials and costs of experts such as water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure engineers.

Countries also face competing health priorities, including tackling outbreaks, pandemics such as COVID-19 and natural disasters. While these are critical and require swift response, they redirect national resources away from neglected tropical diseases, leaving vulnerable populations further exposed to the debilitating impacts of these diseases.

Infections due to neglected tropical diseases - except rabies and snakebites - are less acute in that most of them cause less case fatality rates. High priority and high national health responses that trigger government budget allocation is given to disease with high case fatality rates - diseases that can rapidly cripple key sectors such as tourism and ravage the economy.

What is the impact of such low priority to neglected tropical diseases?

Low prioritization of neglected tropical diseases means that fewer people, if any, receive the health care and support they need. Diseases such as elephantiasis and blinding due to trachoma result in lifelong disability and significantly impair livelihoods as those affected have reduced capacity to carry out economic activities.

Many of the neglected tropical diseases are chronic in nature, meaning that complications and morbidities become apparent many years after infection. For example, elephantiasis or hydrocele due to lymphatic filariasis and trichiasis, a complication of blinding trachoma, are observed mainly in adults even when the disease was acquired earlier in life. The resultant dependence of the affected individuals weighs heavily on household economies and in already marginalized communities the socioeconomic impact is significant.

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What are the major impediments to eliminating neglected tropical diseases?

In most developing countries, neglected tropical diseases control programmes are solely or largely sustained by development partners, yet the elimination of neglected tropical diseases requires substantial investment, which means countries need to own and sustain the response strategies. Lack of national ownership is a huge impediment to elimination.

Poor coverage when implementing mass drug administration programmes also hampers effective response to neglected tropical diseases. If mass drug administration coverages are lower than the stipulated critical coverage and worse if they are disrupted, as is the common experience in many endemic countries, then elimination efforts are jeopardized.

Lack of well-constituted mass drug administration programmes with trained experts at both national and subnational levels hampers the comprehensive implementation of elimination programmes in many endemic countries. There is need for an audit in endemic countries to establish if they have established steering committees that regularly plan and monitor elimination programmes. Many countries could be having only a single neglected tropical disease programme manager and when they leave service the programme stalls.
Mourners carry the body of Omar Assad during his funeral in the West Bank village of Jiljiliya, north of Ramallah, on Jan. 13. Two members of Wisconsin's congressional delegation asked the Biden administration to investigate how a Palestinian American who lived in Milwaukee before moving back to his home village died at a West Bank checkpoint. (Photo: Nasser Nasser via Associated Press)

The U.S. government said Tuesday that it remains concerned over the death of a Palestinian American man whom Israeli soldiers dragged from a car, bound and blindfolded after stopping him at a checkpoint last month.

Omar Assad, 78, had lived in the U.S. as a citizen for four decades  and still has family in America  before returning to retire in his home village in the occupied West Bank. Even after Israel announced that its soldiers would be reprimanded, the U.S. State Department expressed continued worry over the incident.

We continue to be deeply concerned by the circumstances of the death of Mr. Omar Assad, a U.S. citizen who was found dead on January 12, 2022, after Israeli soldiers detained him in the West Bank, department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.

The United States expects a thorough criminal investigation and full accountability in this case, and we welcome receiving additional information on these efforts as soon as possible, he added. We continue to discuss this troubling incident with the Israeli government.

On Tuesday, the Israeli Defense Force released a statement about the completion of its internal investigation into the militarys role in Assads death. Soldiers had stopped Assads car at a checkpoint in Jiljilya about 3 a.m. on Jan. 12. The soldiers took him to a nearby building, where they had detained three other Palestinians.

The IDF claimed that the soldiers did not identify signs of distress and thought Assad was asleep when they cut his zip-ties and left him face-down in the abandoned building. The other detainees have said that they didnt know Assad was with them until the soldiers left.

After finding him unconscious, Assads fellow detainees had him taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. A Palestinian autopsy report that became public last week said Assad died of a heart attack caused by psychological tension due to the external violence he was exposed to. While he had underlying health conditions, the autopsy also found bruises on his head, redness on his wrists from the zip-ties and bleeding in his eyelids from being blindfolded.

Story continues

Palestinian relatives mourn during the funeral of Omar Abdalmajeed Assad, 78, who was found dead after being detained and handcuffed during an Israeli raid, in Jiljilya village, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. (Photo: Jaafar Ashtiyeh/AFP via Getty Images)

The IDFs Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi said that the soldiers conduct was immoral and reprehensible and that the military would reprimand a senior officer and remove two others from leadership roles over Assads death. The IDF still maintained that its internal investigation found no use of violence apart from when [Assad] was apprehended after refusing to cooperate.

Omar Assads son, Hane Assad, told The Associated Press that his father was too old and weak to fight anyone, especially a group of soldiers, and would say to be calm and compliant if stopped by Israeli forces.

The military police are still conducting a separate criminal investigation and said it thoroughly investigates such incidents. But members of Wisconsins congressional delegation, Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), who is Palestinian American,and Rep. Chuy Garcia (D-Ill.) are calling on President Joe Bidens administration to conduct its own investigation.

We strongly support human rights and the rule of law as the foundation of United States foreign policy, Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wis.) wrote to Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday. As a Palestinian American, Mr. Assad deserves the protections afforded U.S. citizens living abroad and his family deserves answers.

Israeli human rights group BTselem and progressive Jewish organization IfNotNow said that Israel rarely holds soldiers accountable for Palestinian deaths, with even the most shocking cases resulting only in relatively light punishments. BTselem is tracking more than 30 open investigations into the killings of Palestinians in the West Bank, spokesperson Dror Sadot told AP.

Sadot told AP that Assads case was unusual because investigations usually take years and usually close with nothing. Both BTselem and IfNotNow pointed out that Assads death likely got special attention because of his American citizenship and pressure from the U.S. government.

If only every Palestinian had U.S. citizenship. https://t.co/gju01aT72m  IfNotNow (@IfNotNowOrg) February 1, 2022

If only every Palestinian had U.S. citizenship, IfNotNow tweeted. The first step of verbal accountability must be applied to every Palestinian murdered under apartheid. Where is the [State Department] condemnation of last months hit and run of Palestinian elder Haj Suleiman Hathaleen by Israeli police?

The State Departments comments about Assad came the same day that human rights organization Amnesty International released a 278-page report concluding that Israels maintenance of a system of oppression and domination over Palestinians amounts to the international definition of apartheid. The group joins Human Rights Watchand BTselem  as well as Palestinians themselves  in accusing Israel of apartheid, both within its borders and in the occupied territories.

Bidens ambassador to Israel denounced Amnesty Internationals report, calling it absurd. Price also rejected the reports findings, saying the State Departments own reports have never used such terminology.

In an interesting exchange, @APDiploWriter pushes @StateDeptSpox on why the US is so critical of @Amnesty reports about Israel when it relies heavily on the group's findings that uncover human rights abuses elsewhere around the world. pic.twitter.com/X6X8RQsLG1  Jacob Magid (@JacobMagid) February 1, 2022

During a press conference on Tuesday, an AP reporter asked Price why the U.S. is so critical of Amnesty Internationals report on Israel when it relies heavily on the groups findings that uncover human rights abuses in other parts of the world. The reporter, Matt Lee, cited the organizations findings for countries like Cuba, South Africa, Myanmar and China, in which the U.S. cited those findings and used the same term Amnesty used to label the atrocities.

So its just when its criticism of Israel that you feel free to disagree? Lee asked. Where have you ever disagreed with an Amnesty report or a human rights report on a country such as Iran?

This is not about any outside group, Price said. This is about our vehement disagreement with a certain finding in a report by an outside group.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.

Related...
German troops in Lithuania (AP Photo/Mindaugas Kulbis)

The more the USA and NATO intensify their war drive against Russia, the more aggressively the ruling class in Germany behaves. The media are gripped by a veritable war frenzy and are demanding the German government finally supply weapons to the extreme right-wing anti-Russian regime in Kiev.

No lie or distortion is too big for them and no propaganda too dirty. Numerous newspapers have used the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp on January 27, 1945, of all things, to use the historical crimes of the Nazi regime in order to justify new imperialist crimes and a more aggressive German war policy.

In the event of a Russian invasion, NATO must also support Ukraine with military materiel, demands the former editor-in-chief of the Suddeutsche Zeitung Kurt Kister in an article. At the same time, the aggressor must suffer serious political and economic disadvantageseven if this would result in supply bottlenecks, price increases or a recession in the West. This, too, was one of the lessons of the past.

Berthold Kohler, editor of the conservative Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), argues similarly. In a commentary headlined The lessons of Germanys past, he refers to the Social Democratic Party-Green Party federal government, which in 1999 justified Germanys first war mission since the end of World War II against Yugoslavia with the cynical argument that Germany was obliged, because of Auschwitz, to use military force if necessary to oppose ethnic cleansing in the Balkans. Now, on the grounds that the Ukrainians had suffered most under Hitlers war of extermination, he is demanding German arms deliveries to Kiev.

This perfidious argument is repeated non-stop by the media in their calls to arm the Ukrainian government for war against Russia. In a slavering guest article for the FAZ, the ex-Maoist and anti-communist Gerd Koenen declares that the Germans indeed have a historical debt to repay, but certainly not primarily to Russia, but first to the Jews and Poles, Belarusians and Ukrainians, and finally also to the Russians.

The foreign policy coordinator of Die Zeit, Jorg Lau, criticises the Green Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock for dismissing Ukrainian wishes for defensive weapons with a sweeping reference to German history. Indeed, from the history of tens of thousands of Ukrainian villages devastated by the Wehrmacht [Hitlers army], the opposite could also be deduced. Lau reminds the Green Minister of Economics, Robert Habeck, of his election campaign statement that it would be difficult to deny Ukraine weapons for defence.

The professional liars in the bourgeois editorial offices falsify several things at once. Firstly, German crimes in Ukraineincluding the Babi Yar massacre, which claimed the lives of more than 33,000 Jewish men, women and childrenwere an integral part of the war of extermination against the Soviet Union, which cost the lives of 27 million people. At the time Nazi Germany invaded Ukraine and established a murderous occupation regime, it was part of the Soviet Union.

It is the height of criminality to counterpose German crimes against Ukrainian Jews and workers to the crimes against Russian Soviet citizens in order to drum up support once again for an aggressive build-up of German imperialism in Eastern Europe and for war against Russia.

In fact, the new German war policy, for which Kohler, Kister and Co. are foaming at the mouth, stands in the Nazi tradition. Today, too, it is not Russia that is the aggressor, as the official propaganda would have us believe, but the imperialist powers. Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union 30 years ago, NATO has been systematically encircling Russia. In early 2014, Washington and Berlin orchestrated a right-wing coup in Ukraine to bring an anti-Russian regime to power in Kiev.

In doing so, they relied on fascist forces such as the Svoboda party and the Right Sector. All the references to the crimes of the Wehrmacht in Ukraine cannot hide the fact that the NATO powers in Kiev are supporting and arming a government that worships Nazi collaborators like Stepan Bandera and Roman Shukhevych and mobilises army units and militias that openly express their fascist and anti-Semitic sentiments.

This reactionary offensive against Russia, which invokes the danger of a third world war, is also supported by the current German government.

In her speech in the Bundestag (federal parliament) last Thursday, Baerbock made it clear that Germany flatly rejects Russian demands for security guarantees, saying these were not compatible with the European security order. She then threatened Moscow, saying it had been made crystal clear that renewed military action against Ukraine would have massive consequences for Russia.

Government representatives from the Liberal Democrats (FDP) and Social Democrats (SPD) expressed themselves in similarly martial terms. Germany must leave no doubt that we defend international law, said Federal Finance Minister Christian Lindner (FDP) on the Welt television channel. If the Kremlin violates bordersand by that I mean territorial as well as legal and political onesthen Moscow must be clear that we are ready for ironclad consequences.

On Monday evening, the SPD leadership joined the propaganda chorus. Saying that he spoke for the entire SPD, party leader Lars Klingbeil declared, following a meeting of the party leadership, that the escalation we are currently experiencing on the Russian-Ukrainian border is coming from Russia. The moment Russia attacked the territorial integrity of Ukraine and crosses the border politically and geographically, there would be a clear, tough and consistent response from Germany, from Europe, from the transatlantic partners. All options were on the table.

If the German government has so far hesitated to deliver offensive weapons to Kiev, it has nothing to do with pacifism. For one thing, it fears having to bear the main economic burden of the conflict with Russia, with which Germany maintains close economic and energy relations. Of the 90 billion cubic metres of gas that German factories and private households consume each year, almost 60 billion currently come from Russia. That is why representatives of the energy industry, led by former Chancellor Gerhard Schroder (SPD), are warning against an escalation of the conflict.

On the other hand, some representatives of the ruling class plead for a certain balance with Russia in order not to become even more dependent on the USA, the militarily dominant NATO member. They fear that an armed conflict over Ukraine would further strengthen the role of the USA and thwart the plans pursued by Germany and France for an independent European army and foreign policy.

Last weekend, the head of the German navy, Vice Admiral Kay-Achim Schonbach, had to resign after arguing for an alliance with Russia against China at a panel discussion in India. Schonbach apparently voiced what many German military leaders are thinking. He explained that this would also be in the interest of the USA, but that country was obviously preparing a war against Russia.

Despite the differences with the USA and its closest allies in Britain and Eastern Europe, the majority of the ruling class in Germany is also committed to a confrontation. It does not want to stand aside when it comes to the crushing and subjugation of Russia. In doing so, it pursues its own economic and geostrategic interests.

At the moment, we are leaving the price tags for war in Europe to the Americans. I find that shameful, complains former Social Democratic Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel in an interview with Bild am Sonntag. We disagree on the assessment of the situation in Ukraine, fear for our economic interests and are glad that others are pulling the hot potatoes out of the fire for us. We Europeans must learn to take our interests into our own hands. Europe must finally become sovereign and a geopolitical actor, he said.

A military confrontation with the nuclear powers Russia and China would mean a third world war and the destruction of the entire planet. Nevertheless, the imperialist powers are marching towards exactly that. The reason for this is not only megalomaniac geopolitical goals, but also the deep internal crisis of capitalist society.

The enormous disruption of social life caused by the global pandemic has fundamentally destabilised all bourgeois regimes, says the statement  Are You Ready for World War III?  by the WSWS editorial board. It is the explosive social crisis of the pandemic and the emergence of open class struggle that is driving the ruling class to war.

The German media are raging even more because, despite permanent warmongering, they are failing to win support for a war against Russia. At the end of January, a poll by broadcaster ZDFs Politbarometer showed that 73 percent of respondents opposed arms deliveries to Ukraine, with only 20 percent in favour. With concerns about the threat of war, opposition to the government is also growing. According to a Forsa survey on February 1, 86 percent are worried about current developments, and 63 percent are dissatisfied with the governments policies.

This opposition needs a clear political perspective and orientation. There is only one way to stop the dangerous development of war: the building of an international antiwar movement based on the working class and fighting for the overthrow of capitalism and a socialist perspective.
LINWOOD  Honoring the past and paving a path to the future was made possible by Dr. Andrew Renny and his wife Barbara Harvis. They recently endowed a $25,000 scholarship to Stockton in memory of Rennys parents, Marcell and Catherine Renny.

Hungarian-born, Marcell and Catherine survived the Holocaust and made a new life together in Budapest until the Hungarian revolution in 1956 when they left everything behind and came to America with their two sons. The couple was reticent to tell their story of survival, but they did open up later in life and were involved with the Sara and Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center at Stockton.

As Andrew Renny explained, his parents were an amazing and resilient couple.

My parents lost everything twice and yet they were not bitter people, they never wanted to be defined as victims. They chose instead to focus on working hard and making the world a better place for their family and their community. They were so grateful they had survived and had the opportunity to create a good life for themselves in America, he said.

Marcell Renny lived in Budapest and Catherine lived about 60 miles away in the city of Szolnok. The two met by chance during the war. All Jewish men were forced into labor camps in 1941. Marcells commander would occasionally permit the men to have dinner at the home of a local Jewish family. By chance, he went for dinner at Catherines family home where the couple first met in March of 1944.

The Nazis invaded Hungary weeks later, took over Catherines family home as their headquarters and forced the family into a ghetto. They had to leave all their possessions behind. Catherines family was sent to a factory near the railroad station where they were put on a train and sent to a concentration camp in Austria. They remained there, suffering through starvation and working under brutal conditions until the camp was freed by the Russians in 1945.

Marcell escaped from his labor camp and returned to Budapest where he was able to secure fake Christian papers for his family and help them escape from the Budapest ghetto. Marcell and his family survived by hiding from the Nazis in Budapest until the end of the war. When Catherine was released from the concentration camp she went to Budapest and found Marcell. They were married six months later.

The young couple remained in Budapest. Marcell was successful, operated a textile factory, and earned an engineering degree. Catherine went to college. They welcomed their two sons but political unrest would again take everything from them.The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 in Budapest sent them fleeing.

As Andrew Renny explained, his parents left Hungary with only a suitcase and their two sons. They made a treacherous crossing into Austria where they remained as refugees for two years, waiting for a visa to the United States. In 1958 they arrived in America.

Once living in North Jersey with two small children, Marcell took the only work he could get, as a janitor in a factory. Through his hard work, he eventually became the vice president of a textile company. Catherine held many jobs and eventually became the office manager of a large local business.

They had again left everything behind and found the will to move forward and make a better life for our family, Andrew Renny said.

While living in North Jersey my father became very active in his synagogue. When my parents moved to Ventnor to be closer to our family in 1999, my father became very active at Beth Judah. He helped people whenever he could. He said it was important to do a good deed every day. My parents began attending the Holocaust survivors luncheons and they took part in the oral history testimony project for survivors at the Sam and Sara Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center and are featured in Portraits of Resilience, a book about Holocaust survivors who lived in South Jersey.

Harvis said when she first married into the family she asked her mother-in-law questions about the Holocaust.

She did not speak much about it. I think many survivors had a difficult time speaking about it. I think it was painful to tell some of those stories and to relive them, Harvis said. My mother-in-law was such a loving person and was appreciative of what she had. She would frame stories that she told as miracles and she would talk about how fortunate they were to have survived the horrors they went through when so many others did not.

Marcell Renny died in 2006 at 87. Catherine died in 2014 at 89.

In searching for a way to honor Marcell and Catherine Renny, endowing a scholarship to Stockton in their name seemed very fitting. Harvis and Renny traveled to Poland and Germany on a study mission as part of the Holocaust and Genocide programs at Stockton.

Educating future generations about the Holocaust and understanding racism, hatred and antisemitism is a good way to honor my parents and to remember, Andrew Renny said.

The Catherine and Marcell Renny Holocaust Studies Memorial Endowed Scholarship will be managed by the Stockton Foundation and will make its first award in the 2022-23 academic year to undergraduate or graduate students with a demonstrated interest in Holocaust studies.

Holocaust Resource Center Director, Gail Rosenthal said the scholarships are meaningful to students but even more so when they are connected to someone who has survived the Holocaust.

Our students understand the importance of continuing the lessons of the Holocaust for the next generation, Rosenthal said.

The Stockton Foundation will choose the recipients of the scholarship, Harvis said. We may get to meet them. It is our hope that when the students learn of the personal connection with survivors, they will be able to go forward and teach the lesson so this never happens again.
WASHINGTON (AP)  For years, the Supreme Court moved to the left or right only as far as Justices Sandra Day O'Connor and Anthony Kennedy allowed.

They held pivotal votes on a court closely divided between liberals and conservatives. Now, though, a more conservative court that includes two men who once worked for Kennedy at the high court is taking direct aim at major opinions written by the two justices, now retired.

The court already was weighing a dramatic rollback of abortion rights when last week, it added cases that could end the use of race in college admissions and limit the reach of the nation's main water pollution law, the Clean Water Act.

Kennedy or O'Connor, or both, wrote the opinions that have been called into question on all three topics.

Its just evidence that the middle or center of the court has moved dramatically right," said Leah Litman, a University of Michigan law professor who once worked for Kennedy.

Since Kennedy and O'Connor played pivotal roles in some of the court's biggest decisions, Litman said, it's not particularly surprising to see some of those decisions come under attack.

A decision on abortion is expected by early summer. The other issues are expected to be argued in the fall and decided by June 2023.

Following Justice Stephen Breyers announcement that he is retiring, a new justice is expected to be on the court when it hears the affirmative action and water pollution cases in the fall. But the change is unlikely to affect the outcomes or the balance on a court that will retain a 6-3 conservative majority.

The first woman to serve on the Supreme Court, O'Connor let it be known more than 12 years ago that she was not happy to see her work being dismantled by a court that grew more conservative when she retired in 2006 and was replaced by Justice Samuel Alito.

What would you feel? she said at a College of William & Mary event in Williamsburg, Virginia, in 2009, when asked what she thought about recent abortion and campaign finance rulings that would have come out differently had she remained on the court. Id be a little bit disappointed. If you think youve been helpful and then its dismantled, you think, Oh dear. But life goes on. Its not always positive.

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O'Connor, 91, withdrew from public life in 2018 when she revealed that she has dementia. Kennedy, 85, declined to comment for this story. He stepped down in 2018, his seat filled by Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

One of three appointees of President Donald Trump, Kavanaugh generally appears to be more conservative than Kennedy, for whom he once worked. Another Trump appointee, Justice Neil Gorsuch, also reported to Kennedy when he was a high court law clerk the same year as Kavanaugh.

Abortion rights are facing their stiffest test in nearly 30 years. In 1992, O'Connor, Kennedy and Justice David Souter, also now retired, jointly wrote an opinion in Planned Parenthood v. Casey that preserved the right to an abortion until the point of viability, when a fetus can survive outside the womb.

The court suggested in arguments in December that it would at the very least uphold Mississippi's ban on abortions after 15 weeks, well before viability, and could overrule Casey and the 1973 landmark Roe v. Wade decision entirely.

Last week, the justices agreed to take up a challenge to O'Connor's 2003 opinion for the court in Grutter v. Bollinger, which sustained the consideration of race among many factors in college admissions.

Kennedy dissented from the Grutter decision, but in 2016, he wrote the majority opinion that again upheld affirmative action in higher education in a case from Texas.

Also last week, the court said it would consider an appeal from landowners who have been blocked from building a house near a scenic Idaho lake. The issue is whether their property contains wetlands that bring it under the Clean Water Act.

In 2006, Kennedy wrote the court's controlling opinion that governs how to decide whether the Clean Water Act applies. That opinion is now under threat.

None of these issues demanded the court's attention at this moment. The high court steps in when lower courts disagree about a legal question, but that was not the case on abortion and affirmative action.

Even if there was a split over the Clean Water Act, the justices had turned away several appeals before Kennedy's retirement and the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 2020.

The changed composition of the court, then, appears to be the prime motivation for the court's intervention. In one sense, that's no surprise.

Trump's three picks were chosen because their outlook on the law put them closer to the court's most conservative justices, Clarence Thomas and Alito, than to Kennedy or even Chief Justice John Roberts.

But a striking aspect of this moment is that Kavanaugh and Gorsuch could well provide the votes to undo opinions written by their former boss.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett, the third justice named by Trump, once worked for the late Justice Antonin Scalia.

Still, some former Kennedy clerks said the former justice was most passionate about his opinions on gay rights and the First Amendment, and they said those are not threatened. Kennedy wrote a series of opinions culminating in a 2015 decision extending same-sex marriage nationwide, as well the Citizens United decision in 2010 that opened the door to unlimited independent spending in federal elections.

He pushed the court toward a broader understanding of the First Amendment. I dont see the court as doing anything to cut back in that area, said Misha Tseytlin, a former clerk now in private practice.

Litman, though, cautioned that religious carve-outs to gay rights rulings working their way through the courts could further undermine Kennedy's legacy.

Those opinions are going to be substantially limited when the court says people with religious objections to marriage equality can't be forced to comply, she said.

While it's not yet clear how far the court will go in any of these areas, there has already been a substantial move to the right, said Jonathan Adler, a law professor at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland.

One way to look at it, Adler said, is to consider that the court for many years had four liberal justices who needed to pick off a single conservative vote to prevail.

On gay rights issues, Kennedy was that justice. Roberts provided the crucial fifth vote to preserve the Affordable Care Act.

That's changed, Adler said. Roberts, Kavanaugh and Barrett now seem most likely to be the middle of a more right-leaning court, and for the liberals to win, they need two out of those three, he said. That's a dramatic shift.
By Jeffrey Heller

JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz began a visit to Bahrain on Wednesday amid heightened tensions https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-send-fighter-jets-assist-uae-after-houthi-attacks-2022-02-02 in the Gulf after missile attacks on the United Arab Emirates by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement.

Announcing Gantz's trip only after his arrival in Manama, Israel's Defence Ministry said he would sign a security cooperation agreement with Bahrain, which along with the UAE normalised relations with Israel in 2020.

The United Arab Emirates on Monday intercepted a missile https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-send-fighter-jets-assist-uae-after-houthi-attacks-2022-02-02 during a visit by Israel's president, the third such attack in two weeks claimed by the Houthis, who are battling a Saudi-led coalition that includes the UAE.

In disclosing Gantz's official visit, the Israeli defence ministry made no mention of the Houthi attacks nor gave details of what a security accord with Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy's main base in the Gulf, would include.

The United States said was it was sending fighter jets to assist the UAE following the missile strikes.

Israel this week is taking part in a large Middle East naval exercise https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-participates-huge-us-gulf-naval-exercise-alongside-saudi-oman-2022-02-02, for the first time publicly joining Saudi Arabia and Oman, two counties it has no diplomatic relations with.

Gantz flew to Bahrain on an Israeli air force transport plane. It was the first time an Israeli defence chief had visited the Gulf nation or that an Israeli military aircraft had landed there.

"Honored to be here and looking forward to meeting the Kingdom's leaders," Gantz wrote on Twitter.

Bahrain state news agency BNA said Gantz and his delegation was received by Bahrain Defence Affairs Minister Abdullah bin Hassan al-Nuaimi.

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The U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords signed by Bahrain, the UAE and Israel built on common commercial interests and worries about Iran. Sudan and Morocco followed suit in formalising ties with Israel.

In September, Bahrain hosted Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid for the highest-level visit since the normalisation deals were reached.

Forces from the UAE, Bahrain, Israel and the United States Naval Forces Central Command held a naval exercise in the Red Sea in November. Israel said such military cooperation could help counter Iran's "power projection" in the region.

(Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Angus MacSwan; Additional reporting by Lisa Barrington, Editing by William Maclean)
Mourners heard the dead officers all had one thing in common; they were the glue that had held their families together. Dad often shared with us how all encompassing and challenging policing can be. I cannot express how much admiration we have for all of you, every time you put on your uniform and sacrifice your safety for the entire community, Constable Kings son James said. Mourners listening to tributes from family. Credit:Jason South Thank you for your loyal service, your commitment, courage and dedication. Stories of the men and women behind the uniform, rarely told on a public stage, were also shared, capturing the complexities and diversity of modern policing.

Loading Ada Taylor described her sister as a brave, fiercely determined mother with a strong moral compass. Graduating from the academy as a mature-age recruit at almost 30, Ms Taylor remembered a determined woman whose family helped her overcome her academy nemesis, a six-foot-high wall she had to learn to scale before graduating. Our grandfather built a six-foot-high wall in the driveway for her ... One day, watched on by one of her loving brothers Ian, he gave her a tip that changed everything, she recalled. He told Lynette to change her lead foot before she took the jump, and up and over she went.

It took a family effort to help make that happen. Lynette was our captain. Without her, we would have been a ship without a rudder. In the centre of a vast stage in the centre of the stadium, Constable Prestneys brother and fellow officer Alex Prestney, alongside two others, performed the song Just A Dream. Members of Victoria Police honour four colleagues who lost their lives in the Eastern Freeway tragedy in 2020 at a state memorial service at Marvel Stadium on Thursday. Credit:Jason South Tell me why I feel like this never seems real, they sang. His mother Belinda Prestney recalled the night that their whole world fell apart, remembering her boy as a lover of music and of family.

The memory of how that night unfolded is as clear and as painful as if it happened yesterday and as hard as it was to lose Josh, harder still has been learning to live without him. Constable Glen Humphris partner Todd Robinson thanked the dozens of family members who travelled to attend the service as photographs of a golden haired boy growing up on the NSW central coast filled the memorial screens. Our police officers wear a uniform, but underneath that uniform is a person who has people that love them and look forward to them coming home, he said. Today, I stand here 94 weeks  its 94 weeks yesterday, since I lost my partner Glen.

Premier Daniel Andrews told the crowd the deaths broke the hearts of so many Victorians and served as a powerful reminder of just how dangerous policing could be. Everyday police families say goodbye to a loved one, sending them off to do the most important of work. The hope that their special person will have a good shift, a safe shift, Mr Andrews said. Members of Victoria Police honour four colleagues who lost their lives in the Eastern Freeway tragedy in 2020 at a state memorial service at Marvel Stadium on Thursday. Credit:Jason South This is because their loved one has chosen to live a life in the service and protection of others. Its essential, its honourable and it can be tragic. To run toward the danger  in order to protect others is a special thing, he said.

Former state premiers Ted Baillieu, John Brumby and Jeff Kennett were among those in attendance, as were Victoria Liberal Leader Matthew Guy, Independent MP Fiona Patten and Deputy Federal Labor Party leader Richard Marles. Graham Ashton, who was chief commissioner of Victoria Police at the time, could also be seen conversing with mourners on Thursday afternoon. His successor Mr Patton said it had been 653 days since the tragedy but the loss had been felt on every one of those days. He said when the four joined Victoria Police they became a part of a close and proud family with one common goal; community safety.

However, he said many officers had since been forced to examine their own vulnerabilities, aware the deaths occurred on what appeared to be a routine car stop, normally considered everyday police work. Across the city on Thursday, Australian flags on government buildings flew at half-mast as a mark of respect for the fallen officers. We remember them today. We wont forget them ever, said Police Association secretary Wayne Gatt ahead of the service. Police officers mourn their fallen colleagues on Thursday. Credit:Jason South All four officers were killed when struck by a semi-trailer as they stood in the emergency lane of the Eastern Freeway, on April 22, 2020, but this tribute to them has been on hold for almost two years because of COVID-19.

In the Supreme Court in April last year, the driver of the semi-trailer that struck and killed the four officers, Mohinder Singh, was jailed for 22 years after pleading guilty to four counts of culpable driving causing death, three charges of drug trafficking and one of possessing drugs. The 48-year-old father of two was high on drugs when his 20-tonne prime mover veered into the emergency lane in Kew, killing the officers. Porsche driver Pusey, who fled the scene, was later sentenced to 10 months in prison for filming the aftermath of the incident and pleading guilty to reckless conduct endangering serious injury, possessing a drug of dependence and outraging public decency. If you are a current or former Victoria Police employee or family member seeking mental health, resilience or wellbeing services, please contact bluespacewellbeing.com.au. If you or anyone you know needs support call Lifeline 131 114, or beyondblue 1300 224 636.
MIAMI (AP)  Technology to hide a ship's location previously available only to the world's militaries is spreading fast through the global maritime industry as governments from Iran to Venezuela  and the rogue shipping companies they depend on to move their petroleum products  look for stealthier ways to circumvent U.S. sanctions.

Windward, a maritime intelligence company whose data is used by the U.S. government to investigate sanctions violations, said that since January 2020 it has detected more than 200 vessels involved in over 350 incidents in which they appear to have electronically manipulated their GPS location.

This is out of hand right now, Matan Peled, co-founder of Windward and a former Israeli naval officer, said in an interview. Its not driven by countries or superpowers. Its ordinary companies using this technique. The scale is astonishing.

Peled said U.S. authorities have been slow to catch on to the spread of technology that has been part of the electronic warfare arsenal for decades but is only now cropping up in commercial shipping, with serious national security, environmental and maritime safety implications.

Windward was able to identify suspect ships using technology that detects digital tracks that don't correspond to actual movements, such as hairpin turns at breakneck speed or drifting in the form of perfect crop circles.

William Fallon, a retired four-star admiral and former head of the U.S. Pacific Command, said U.S. authorities have been aware for some time of the threat from electronic manipulation, one of a growing number of so-called gray zone national security challenges that cut across traditional military, commercial and economic lines.

Any time you can deceive somebody into believing youre somewhere where youre not is concerning," said Fallon, who is now a board member of the American Security Project, a Washington think tank. It illustrates the extent to which people who dont have any scruples are willing to go to achieve their objectives and the ease with which they can do it.

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One of the more egregious examples found by Windward involves a 183-meter-long oil tanker that could be tracked sailing to Iraq even as it was in reality loading crude in Iran, which is banned from selling its oil by U.S. sanctions.

The tanker, whose name Windward asked to be withheld so as not to disrupt any potential U.S. government investigation, set sail on Feb. 11, 2021, from the United Arab Emirates, reporting its destination as Basra, Iraq. When it was 20 nautical miles away, its global navigation system began exhibiting strange drifting patterns. Twelve days later, its transmission stabilized and it could be tracked heading back through the Hormuz strait at normal sailing speed, this time fully laden with crude.

Satellite imagery shows that during the two-week voyage a ship of identical length and with the same red deck broken up by a white pole and bridge was spotted dozens of nautical miles away, in Iran's Kharg Island oil terminal. That vessel was then followed on satellite sailing back to the UAE, its course merging with the reported position of the original ship after it resumed its normal transmission.

Under a United Nations maritime treaty, ships of over 300 tons have been required since 2004 to use an automated identification system to avoid collisions and assist rescues in the event of a spill or accident at sea. Tampering with its use is a major breach that can lead to official sanctions for a vessel and its owners.

But what was intended as an at-sea safety mechanism has also driven a proliferation in ship-spotting platforms like MarineTraffic.com.

Experts say such websites can be easily tricked since they partly rely on data gathered from thousands of amateur base stations that function like police radio scanners picking up maritime movements. Last year, two journalists from the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation managed to register online a fake base station near Somalia and insert the false coordinates of a real vessel. Seconds later, the falsified location popped up on MarineTraffic.com.

"To minimize errors and always ensure data integrity, MarineTraffic has introduced a series of key actions in the last few months as we strive to keep securing incoming data further," MarineTraffic's Anastassis Touros said in a statement. Steps include blocking specific stations and IP addressees that consistently transmit false data.

Despite such quality control efforts, the sheer volume of data has cut into the utility of such open-source platforms, two U.S. intelligence officers told The Associated Press. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss what they described as the latest  and most extreme  tactic in the cat and mouse game between authorities and bad actors.

Another blind spot: China. The recent implementation of a harsh data privacy law has cut by nearly half the amount of terrestrial data on maritime activity in Chinese waters, making it harder to track everything from activity at busy ports key to global supply chains to the movements of the world's largest distant water fishing fleet.

Researchers from Global Fishing Watch, which uses satellite data and machine learning to monitor activity at sea, have made similar findings as Windward. It has identified 30 vessels whose locations, as reported on ship-tracking platforms, regularly fell outside the range of the satellite receiving the ship's position.

Among the vessels caught suspected of falsifying its digital tracks was the Tulip, a Panama-flagged oil tanker. For almost six months last year, it broadcast its position along the west coast of Africa. But the satellite that should have picked up the ships movements was often thousands of miles away, suggesting the ship was likely in Venezuela.

The Associated Press obtained internal documents from Venezuela's state-owned oil company indicating the Tulip loaded 450,000 barrels of fuel oil during the first 15 days of September. Like several other of the suspicious vessels, the crude was purchased by a shell company, M and Y Trading Co., registered in Hong Kong in November 2020, according to the documents. The Tulip is owned by another Hong Kong-registered shell, Victory Marine Ltd. Neither company returned emails seeking comment.

Bjorn Bergman, a data analyst for Global Fishing Watch and Sky Truth, said attempts to hide a ship's position can be easily detected.

While we need to remain vigilant, vessel operators choosing to manipulate their data are just going to end up shining a spotlight on their activities, he said.

Of the 200 vessels identified by Windward with similar patterns of deception, the vast majority exhibited no other or just a few classic red flags such as disabling on-ship tracking systems, falsifying a vessels flag state or constantly changing ownership from one shell company to another.

These shipping practices have become clear indications for possible involvement in sanctions evasion and are described as such in a 2020 advisory by the U.S. State and Treasury departments and the U.S. Coast Guard.

But the advisory, heralded as an important step to crack down on the shipping companies that do business with U.S. adversaries, makes no mention of the latest GPS trick to hide illicit trade in oil, seafood and other products. As a result, the practice has exploded into what Windward has called a free for all with no immediate end in sight

The vast majority of these vessels were meticulously chosen for these missions because they are otherwise well behaved, said Dror Salzman, a risk product manager at Windward. If you walk to a bank with a ski mask on, everyone knows what youre up to. But here its like they are working from the inside with the teller. Nobody can see them.

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Joshua Goodman on Twitter: @APJoshGoodman

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Contact APs global investigative team at Investigative@ap.org or https://www.ap.org/tips/

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The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for its coverage of oceans and fisheries. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ad Council, a long-time industry leader in using the power of communications for social good, released a benchmark new study unveiling America's most trust ed messengers, where they have the most impact in driving change for social and societal issues and how they fit into the larger trusted messenger ecosystem. Most notably, the study found that doctors, close friends and scientists carry the most trust after familywith honesty, consistency and a lack of bias as key contributing traits. The report, "Who Do We Trust With Our Lives?: The Trusted Messenger Study," is the first from the nonprofit's Ad Council Research Institute (ACRI), a newly formed business arm that leverages the organization's insight-driven approach, examining how to inspire action on the most pressing social issues of our time.

According to the study, Americans place the most trust in their families when seeking information around social issues ranging from mental health, voting and civic engagement, racial equity and justice, climate change, addiction and COVID-19. Most trust their spouse or partner (72%), closely followed by immediate family members (66%). Doctors or medical professionals (60%), close friends (59%) and scientists (51%) are the next most trustworthy messengers for the American public, followed by local or community leaders including pastors/religious leaders (40%), teachers or school leaders (39%), church members (32%), local business owners (31%).

While these messengers rose to the top on social and societal issues, the report details the importance of understanding the interplay of reach and trust within the trusted messenger ecosystem which represents three key layers to reach, validate and instill trust in a message. To design and execute an effective campaign, the findings underline the need to recognize the unique potential of "Amplifiers" with broad reach and relevance, "Validators" with specific issue expertise and "Persuaders" with personal connection to audiences. Social issue marketers should consider how these three key layers of the trusted messengers ecosystem work in concert to develop social impact campaigns that create awareness, build knowledge and ultimately incite behavior changes.

"We know from experience that when it comes to inspiring action around social issues, the messenger is just as important as the message itself," said Lisa Sherman, President and CEO of the Ad Council. "This study challenges all purpose-driven marketers to broaden the definition of trusted messengers for unique audiences, ensuring messages reach, inform and inspire action. In addition to the scale and relevance of celebrities, influencers and others with vast networks, these findings reinforce the need to complement their incredible platforms with the most relatable and trusted voices, helping us all to make a difference in our communities."

In addition to trends among the general population, the study identified differences in trust across certain demographics, including by political affiliation. Two thirds (68%) of Democrats trust scientists, compared to just 38% of Republicans and 44% of independents. Democrats also put notably more trust in professors/academic experts (53%) and teachers/school leaders (49%) than Republicans (29% and 32%, respectively) and Independents (32% and 29%, respectively). Conversely, more Republicans (54%) trust pastors and religious leaders than Democrats (36%) and Independents (31%). Republicans also place a great deal more trust in fellow church members (45%) than Democrats (28%) and Independents (24%).

The study also finds that rural respondents are somewhat less trusting of academic or expert messengers, compared to those in urban and suburban locations. While 54% of urban and 53% of suburban respondents consider scientists extremely/very trustworthy, just 45% of people in rural areas do. Similarly, a third of people in rural areas (32%) place trust in professors/academic experts, compared to 44% in urban and 40% in suburban areas. 33% of rural respondents trust teachers and school leaders, compared to 43% of urban and 39% of suburban respondents.

When determining trustworthiness for opinions and advice around social issues, honesty (79%) and consistency (73%) stand out as the top contributing traits. Americans also identified that having an unbiased opinion (71%), presenting both sides of an issue (71%), being trusted for other information or advice (70%) and lacking a of conflict of interest (69%) are all important characteristics of trustworthy messengers. In contrast, being endorsed or paid by companies (19%), being a government official or having a large community of followers (23%) and being a popular national or local voice (27% and 29%, respectively) were identified as traits that do not, alone, lend themselves to trustworthiness for social issues.

Data for the study was gathered from 37 qualitative interviews and an online survey completed by 2,523 U.S. respondents across diverse genders, generations, race, ethnicity, urbanicity, income and political affiliation. The study focused specifically on the individual messengers of information, rather than sources themselves or the validity of information shared. This focus differs from existing studies and allows for a closer look at who and why different people are believed to be trustworthy.

In addition to key findings, the report identifies recommendations for social impact marketers hoping to leverage the right voices for their campaigns and initiatives. The full study and findings, including the breakdown of trusted messengers across different social issues, are published here.

"Who Do We Trust With Our Lives?: The Trusted Messenger Study" is the debut study from the Ad Council Research Institute which launched today. For 80 years, research has been a key element of the Ad Council's work, driving the creation of social good campaigns across the country to raise awareness and ultimately inspire action. Building from the nonprofit's extensive experience, ACRI works directly with brand, corporate and nonprofit partners to conduct and publish public studies on a variety of important social issues.

"The Ad Council Research Institute was started so we could arm brands, nonprofits and others devoted to social causes with the insights needed to move the needle on some of our country's most pressing issues," said Derrick Feldmann, lead researcher and managing director of ACRI and Ad Council Edge. "We're looking forward to the meaningful learnings that will come from these collaborative public studies and how they will contribute to even more impactful social good initiatives in the future."

ACRI provides a variety of services, ranging from public sentiment, knowledge and behavior studies; message and narrative testing; influencer and trusted messenger insights; and campaign performance measurement and optimization. Topics for future ACRI research include workforce wellbeing; food insecurity; health access and equity; unity, misinformation and polarization; and racial inequity. All research is guided by the Institute's core principles of empathy, pragmatism and collaboration, delivering results that are both authentic and actionable.

For more information, visit the ACRI website.

The Ad Council

The Ad Council has a long history of creating life-saving public service communications in times of national crisis, starting in the organization's earliest days during World War II to September 11th and natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy and, most recently, leading the industry's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Its deep relationships with media outlets, the creative community, issue experts and government leaders make the organization uniquely poised to quickly distribute life-saving impactful information to millions of Americans.

The Ad Council is where creativity and causes converge. The non-profit organization brings together the most creative minds in advertising, media, technology and marketing to address many of the nation's most important causes. The Ad Council has created many of the most iconic campaigns in advertising history. Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk. Smokey Bear. Love Has No Labels.

The Ad Council's innovative social good campaigns raise awareness, inspire action and save lives. To learn more, visit AdCouncil.org, follow the Ad Council's communities on Facebook and Twitter, and view the creative on YouTube.

SOURCE The Ad Council
The United States announced Wednesday it is deploying another 3,000 troops to two East European NATO member states, further escalating the prospect of an all-out war on the continent. The nearly 2,000 paratroopers being sent to Poland will join a 4,000-man NATO force already there, while those dispatched to Romania will more than double the number of military personnel currently stationed in that Black Sea nation. Washington reiterated that it has another 8,500 soldiers on standby. In late January, it emerged that war planners had considered putting 50,000 boots on the ground in Eastern Europe.

Its important that we send a strong signal to Mr. Putin and the world that NATO matters, said Pentagon spokesman John F. Kirby yesterday. We are making it clear that we are going to be prepared to defend our NATO allies if it comes to that, he added. Given that Ukraine is not a NATO member, Kirby is implying in this statement that Russias war aims extend far beyond its western neighbor and that the United States is prepared to light the whole region on fire.

Along with these latest troop deployments, the Pentagon is sending another six F-15 fighter jets to Estonia, whose border is only about 200 miles from Russias second major city, St. Petersburg. The Belgian government is further bolstering NATO airpower in the Baltics by sending F-16s to join the American contingent. Sweden, although not a member of the alliance, just committed to several million dollars-worth of spending to help Ukraine strengthen reliance in its southeast.

The United States and NATO are making clear that they are prepared not to draw down, but rather increase the size of their forces arrayed along Russias entire western flank. The expansion of the trans-Atlantic alliance on the basis of an openly anti-Russian geopolitical and military policy is at the core of the current conflict with Moscow, which has made clear this is an existential threat to a country that has a tragic and bitter experience with hostile armies pouring across its European borders.

In response to Wednesdays announcement of further US troop deployments, deputy head of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Aleksandr Grushko told news agency Interfax that the move would only increase military tensions.

On Wednesday, the Spanish newspaper El Pais published the contents of a written response by the US and NATO to Russias insistence that Ukraine not ever be admitted to the trans-Atlantic alliance. The letters, one from Washington and the other from Brussels, rejected that demand out of hand and declared it to be a violation of NATOs Open Door Policy, whereby any country can be admitted at any time if seen fit.

While declaring that it is willing to consider a reciprocal agreement that neither party will station ground-launched missile systems and permanent forces on Ukrainian territory, the US position outlined in the letter left open plenty of opportunity for Washington and NATO to further militarize Ukraine by providing arms and financing to Kiev or moving armed forces through the country on a rotating basis.

The entire proposal, which includes an offer to review nuclear arms agreements of concern to Russia and start discussions on the basis of countries conceptions of the indivisibility of security, is contingent on Moscow deescalating the present situation and removing its forces from Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova. While unstated in the letter, this would have to involve, among other things, Russia abandoning its naval base on the Black Sea, turning Crimea back over to the far-right government in Kiev, and giving up its military presence in the highly contested and geostrategic southern Caucasus.

In addition, the letters declare Russias actions to be unprovoked and unjustified and demand that Moscow refrain from coercive force posturing, aggressive nuclear rhetoric, and malign activities directed against Allies and other countries. Apparently, such actions are the sole right of Washington and Brussels.

The Kremlin responded to these communications earlier this week by saying that neither the US nor NATO had seriously addressed any of its concerns.

Since then the media warmongering has continued, with the latest installment being satellite evidence published Wednesday that allegedly details Russias military build-up near Ukraine. The company that produced the photos, Maxar, is a Washington-based firm with extensive ties to the US government and military.

Not even two decades ago, Iraqi society was destroyed on the basis of lies, supposedly substantiated with satellite imagery, that Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction. None of todays claims, nor the newspapers that peddle them, has any credibility. And in all of the media coverage on this issue, it never occurs to any journalist or commentator that, even if the images are accurate, there is no reason why Russia, which faces overwhelming NATO firepower, cannot equip forces on its sovereign territory.

From the standpoint of both the US government and its backers in the mass media, Russia, in essence, has no right to exist. This is why all of the Kremlins national security concerns, as well as the sentiments of the countrys 140 million people who have lived through war on a scale not experienced by any other population, are dismissed as misinformation.

In a discussion on Wednesday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, whose government is in crisis because of its flagrant violation of COVID-19 protocols, warned President Vladimir Putin that a Russian invasion would be a tragic miscalculation.

The same day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, coming out of a meeting with Johnson, declared, There will be, unfortunately, a tragedy if the escalation against our state begins. This will not be a war between Ukraine and Russiathis will be a war in Europe, full-scale war.

The Kremlin has repeatedly said that it is not preparing to invade anyone.

In an indication that the US may be trying to slow down the mad dash to World War III or at the very least tone down the out-of-control war hysteria in the press, White House Spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Wednesday that the Biden administration would no longer describe Russias alleged plans to invade Ukraine as imminent. With the world standing on the brink of disaster, Psaki blithely noted, I think it sent a message that we werent intending to send.

Whatever the immediate twists and turns, the United States is on a collision course with Russia. It also has China in its gun sites. A major question facing Washington is how, or whether, it can manage a two-front war. The COVID-19 pandemic, for which the White House has no answer apart from mass death, is pushing the ruling class to find outlets for its internal crisis in foreign war.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders held a protest against the state government in Jaipur over the Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teacher (REET) paper leak matter and demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Speaking to ANI, Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly, Rajendra Rathore said, "The manner in which the family members of Education Minister were passed in the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) exam proves that a scam is going on under the patronage of government. There should be a CBI inquiry in this matter." The Special Operation Group (SOG) of police has arrested REET Jaipur district coordinator Pradeep Parashar in connection with the exam paper leak case, said Ashok Rathore, additional director general of police informed on Monday. As per the official statement, the role of Pradeep Parashar in the case came to light during the interrogation of another arrested accused Ramkripal Meena."A total of 36 people have been arrested in connection with the case," reads the statement Earlier on Tuesday, Congress leader Sachin Pilot said the Rajasthan government and the state police are thoroughly investigating the irregularities in the conduct of the Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teachers-2021 (REET). Speaking to ANI, the minister said, "After discrepancies and irregularities in REET exam, the government has dismissed many officials, implemented stricter norms and started a probe. A committee in the next 45 days will deliver its recommendations." The paper of the REET exam which was held on September 26, 2021, was leaked two days before the examination. In September 2021, the gang of five people, including a woman, was arrested and a cheating racket was busted by Rajasthan Police who acted after sensing foul play by a candidate who appeared at an Ajmer centre in the Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teachers (REET) that was held on September 26. The incident came to light when aspirant, Ganesh Ram Dhaka (28), who had arrived at the Acharya Shri Dharam Sagar Digambar Jain Secondary Medium School Centre in Ajmer for the REET was found wearing a Bluetooth-equipped chappal.Rajasthan government had suspended government officers, teachers, education department employees and police personnel suspecting their involvement in cheating in REET 2021. Several people have been arrested by the police so far for their involvement in cheating in the REET exam. (ANI)
U.S Intelligence officials examining Havana Syndrome say the only plausible explanation for a small number of cases is a device or a weapon of some kind.

A US intelligence report by a panel of expert scientists pointed to pulsed electromagnetic energy and ultrasound as possible causes for the mysterious Havana Syndrome - an unexplained illness that has long been believed to be caused inadvertently by surveillance equipment or by a mysterious sonic weapon.

'Pulsed electromagnetic energy, particularly in the radiofrequency range, plausibly explains the core characteristics' the new report on the mysterious illness released on Wednesday said.

The report comes after a CIA task force said that the illness is not the product of a sustained global campaign by a hostile power aimed at hundreds of U.S. diplomats and spies last month.

The sonic weapon the could cause Havana syndrome is said to be a smaller version of this 1990s Soviet microwave generator, which is kept at the University of New Mexico

The syndrome first surfaced at the US embassy in Havana, (pictured) when government employees suddenly found themselves afflicted with the mysterious malady

The latest report said that devices do exist that could produce the observed symptoms and are effective over hundreds of meters or through walls.

'Sources exist that could generate the required stimulus, are concealable, & have moderate power requirements' the report said. 'Using nonstandard  antennas & techniques, the signals could be propagated w/low loss through air for tens to hundreds of meters...'

The scientist said that Havana Syndrome symptoms are 'diverse and may be caused by multiple mechanisms' but that a subset of them 'cannot be easily explained by known environmental or medical conditions'.

The scientist added that the while the symptoms are common, the combination of the four core characteristics is 'distinctly unusual and unreported elsewhere in the medical literature, and so far have not been associated with a specific neurological abnormality,' and make it unlikely to be just a typical neurological disorder.

Symptoms of Havana Syndrome include loud noise, ear pain, intense head pressure or vibration, dizziness, visual problems, and cognitive difficulties

The officials who briefed reporters Wednesday said there were significant gaps in what the government knows. Among the recommendations the panel has made is standardizing the information collected across U.S. agencies and creating new markers for identifying and caring for what the government calls 'anomalous health incidents.'

The U.S. is also looking for ways to protect officers and prevent future cases. While officials who briefed reporters would not specify what protection measures they have recommended, they urged any employee who believes they have been affected to come forward immediately.

'While we don't have the specific mechanism for each case, what we do know is if you report quickly and promptly get medical care, most people are getting well,' one official said.

In a statement, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines and CIA Director William Burns said the U.S. government 'remains committed to providing access to care for those who need it, and we will continue to share as much information as possible with our workforce and the American public as our efforts continue.'

Symptoms of Havana Syndrome include loud noise, ear pain, intense head pressure or vibration, dizziness, visual problems, and cognitive difficulties, and many still continue to experience these or other health problems, according to a 2020 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report.

The report assessed the symptoms to be 'consistent with the effects of directed, pulsed radio frequency (RF) energy.'

Some have reported hearing a loud noise before the sudden onset of symptoms.

What is 'Havana Syndrome'? The mysterious illness that started in the US embassy in Cuba and causes memory and hearing loss The problem has been labeled the 'Havana Syndrome,' because the first cases affected personnel in 2016 at the U.S. Embassy in Cuba. At least 200 cases across the government are now under investigation. People who are believed to have been affected have reported headaches, dizziness and symptoms consistent with concussions, with some requiring months of medical treatment. Some have reported hearing a loud noise before the sudden onset of symptoms. Countries its been reported in: Cuba, United States, China, Russia, Vietnam, Austria, Germany, Serbia, United Kingdom, Georgia, Poland, Taiwan, Australia, Colombia, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan Symptoms include: -hearing loss -severe headaches -memory issues -dizziness -brain injury Advertisement

But it's unclear if victims sustain any neurological damage or any longterm damage and it's unclear what might have caused that damage.

Some doubt its existence, however, and call it 'mass hysteria.'

The leading theory behind the cause of the suddenly surfaced syndrome starts with a device that scientists say Russia could have invented during the Cold War, which was later used to spy on US embassies by collecting data from laptops and cell phones.

However, experts now theorize that a hostile country - like Russia or China - may have turned this microwave technology into a weapon.

Both countries deny any involvement in any of the incidents relating to the mysterious syndrome.

Last month a CIA task force said that the illness is not the product of a sustained global campaign by a hostile power aimed at hundreds of U.S. diplomats and spies.

The task force made the assessment that not all of the cases were caused by a hostile power, but said 12 cases originating in the embassy in 2016 remain unexplained.

Many were caused by 'anomalous health' contributors, it said. The task force also didn't rule out that at least some of the cases may have been an attack.

'This finding does not -- it does not -- call into question the fact that our officers are reporting real experiences and are suffering real symptoms, nor does it explain every report,' a senior CIA official told CNN.

There have been roughly 200 reported cases of the yet unexplained illness, colloquially named for its first reported case in 2016 at the US Embassy in Havana, Cuba.

Almost half of the cases involved CIA officers or their relatives, nearly 60 have been linked to Department of Defense workers or relatives, and about 50 involved State Department personnel the outlet reported.

Back in September, Vice President Kamala Harris' departure from Singapore during her Asia trip was delayed by more than three hours because of an 'anomalous health incident in Hanoi,' which was the next stop in her Asia trip.

That was a reference to Havana Syndrome.
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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks that the BJP governments policies have brought China and Pakistan together, stating that some history lessons are in order and that Pakistan illegally handed over the Shaksgam Valley to China in 1963, when a Congress government was in office. He said that China built the Karakoram highway through PoK in the 1970s and CPEC was started in 2013 when Congress-led UPA was in power at the Centre. Jaishankar also slammed Gandhi over his remarks in Lok Sabha during debate on the motion of thanks on Presidents Address that the government could not get a foreign guest for Republic Day.

Taunting Gandhi over his frequent foreign visits, Jaishankar said those who live in India know we were in the midst of a corona wave and added that India held a virtual summit with presidents of five central Asian countries.

Rahul Gandhi alleged in Lok Sabha that it is this Government which brought Pakistan and China together. Perhaps, some history lessons are in order: -In 1963,Pakistan illegally handed over the Shaksgam valley to China. -China built the Karakoram highway through PoK in the 1970s, Gandhi said in a tweet. Referring to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor started in 2013, he asked Gandhi to ask himself if China and Pakistan were distant then.

From the 1970s, the two countries also had close nuclear collaboration. -In 2013, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor started. So, ask yourself: were China and Pakistan distant then? he asked. Jaishankar asked if Rahul Gandhi also missed the India-Central Asia Summit held on January 27. In Lok Sabha, @RahulGandhi said we could not get a foreign guest for Republic Day. Those who live in India know we were in the midst of a corona wave. The 5 Central Asian Presidents, who were to come, did hold a virtual summit on Jan 27. Did Rahul Gandhi miss that as well? he asked.

Rahul Gandhi in his speech said the government has brought China and Pakistan together. The Chinese have a very clear vision of what they want to do. The single biggest strategic goal of Indias foreign policy has been to keep Pakistan and China separate. What you have done is, you have brought them together, he said. Do not be under any illusion, do not underestimate the force that is standing in front of you. You have brought Pakistan and China together. This is the single biggest crime that you could commit against the people of India, he added.
Basically, there are two reasons why automakers would design and build a car. Either theyre doing it for the sheer passion of it, or becaus...
The attempt by Prime Minister Scott Morrison to overcome his governments deep political crisis with a re-set speech at the National Press Club on Tuesday has failed spectacularly. Ongoing factional conflicts within Morrisons Liberal Party have erupted into public warfare, and it is an open question whether the PM will even survive until the next federal election, likely to be held in May.

Morrisons speech had two aims.

Firstly, to try and dampen down mass popular anger over his central role in letting the virus rip, which has created the countrys worst COVID surge since the pandemic began. His and the governments opinion poll results are the lowest since Morrisons installation as prime minister in August 2018. And secondly, to convince the ruling elite that his government is capable of enforcing the continued reopening drive and the pro-business restructuring that is to accompany it.

If anything, the speech only made things worse on both fronts.

Amid ongoing mass infection, illness and death resulting from the decision of governments to allow Omicron to spread in December, Morrison acknowledged for the first time: I havent got everything right and Ill take my fair share of the criticism and the blame.

But the PM refused to apologise for the catastrophe, in line with his pitch to the corporate elite that he will continue the policies that caused it. You must be prepared to listen to that advice, but also to take the decisions that strike the right balance, he said.

Later, during the question session, Morrison claimed that his government had been too optimistic about Omicron and, We could have communicated more clearly about the risks and challenges that we still faced. His only regret was that the military was not called in earlier to run the vaccination operationwhich points to discussions and plans to deploy the military more generally in the event of social unrest.

To claim optimistic misunderstanding is a fraud. The government, backed by the entire National Cabinet of federal, state and territory leaders, deliberately misled the public. They all insisted that the Omicron variant of COVID-19 was mild, in order to justify the lifting of nearly every safety restriction, followed by the reopening of schools, in order to push workers back into workplaces despite mass infections.

Even after 1,519 COVID fatalities were reported in January alone, including more than 450 aged care residents, Morrison contemptuously declared that our health response has ensured that our health and aged care system has stood up to the global pandemic. To add insult to this dismissal of the death toll, he then promised the over-worked and abysmally-paid aged care workers two $400 retention payments before May, the likely election month, while rejecting calls for wage rises.

Morrison once more attempted, as he has done for two years, to hold out the prospect of locking in our economic recovery in 2022, saying his government stood for strong economic management. That means further driving up corporate profits at the expense of the jobs, wages and conditions of workers.

Morrison also sought to incite fears about a direct threat to Australias economic and security interests. He did not name China. But he highlighted the signing of the AUKUS agreement, a military alliance directed against Beijing, the powering up of the Quad, a quasi-military pact with the US, Japan and India to confront China, and the sealing of military or strategic partnership agreements with India, South Korea, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea.

In other words, the key planks of Morrisons appeal were that he would boost the fortunes of the ultra-wealthy, and ramp-up a national security agenda involving further attacks on democratic rights and an escalation of Australias involvement in US-led wars.

Even at the National Press Club event, there were indications that sections of the ruling class and the Liberal Party itself do not think Morrison is up to the job.

Network 10 and Australian journalist Peter van Onselen, who has connections inside the party and is a figurehead of the Murdoch press, read out text messages, apparently two years old, in which the then New South Wales (NSW) Liberal Premier Gladys Berejiklian described Morrison as a horrible, horrible person who was more concerned about political point-scoring than peoples lives. In reply, an unnamed cabinet minister called him a fraud and a complete psycho.

Such texts could have been leaked only by senior figures in the Liberal-National Coalition, which is increasingly wracked by factional in-fighting.

Within days of the speech, the conflicts have openly erupted. Such is the rancor that a few months out from the federal election, the Liberal Party has been unable to finalise preselection for candidates in more than a dozen seats. Some of them are crucial electorates, including Hughes in Sydney, where the sitting member Craig Kelly defected from the government last year, and Warringah, the seat previously held by former Liberal Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Sitting MPs are facing potential challenges to their candidacy, including Environment Minister Sussan Ley, Immigration Minister Alex Hawke, and prominent North Sydney MP Trent Zimmerman. Thirteen others, including six ministers, are retiring from federal politics, prompting media references to rats fleeing a sinking ship.

In line with Van Onsolens decision to drop a bomb at the National Press Club, the Murdoch media, previously a key support of Morrison, has adopted an increasingly skeptical tone regarding his political viability. Similar opinions are being voiced by leading commentators at the rival Nine Media group. There are broader fears of a potential bust up, both of the Liberal Party and its governing coalition with the Nationals.

Under these conditions, Labor is presenting itself as the vehicle best suited to implement the demands of the financial elite, for austerity, militarism and forcing the population to live with the virus.

Its leader, Anthony Albanese has repeatedly harkened back to the 1980s, when the Hawke and Keating Labor governments formed a tripartite alliance with the unions and big business to enforce sweeping economic deregulation and restructuring.

Albanese was installed as leader after Labor lost the unlosable election of 2019 because broad sections of working people, as hostile as they were to the Liberal-Nationals, did not buy its phony fair go rhetoric.

Labor has responded by shifting even further to the right, dumping token taxation measures and foreswearing any demagogic references to social inequality. Instead, Albanese has insisted that Labor is a party of aspiration.

Throughout the pandemic, Labor has largely marched in lockstep with the government, supporting and enforcing the profit-driven pandemic policies, the massive handouts to big business, and attacks on democratic rights, including the forcible deregistration of smaller political parties without parliamentary representation. On foreign policy, Labor insists that it could work more closely with the Biden administration, as the US prepares for war with Russia and China to try and reverse the economic decline of American capitalism through military means

Labors right-wing pitch demonstrates that the upcoming election will resolve nothing for workers and young people. That is why in the deepening political crisis and the federal election, the working class must adopt an independent position, against the Coalition, Labor and the entire parliamentary set-up.

The needless sacrifice of lives globally in the pandemic has exposed the moral and social bankruptcy of capitalism and all its political servants. An entirely opposed political perspective has to be adopted and fought for. That is a socialist one, based on the protection of health and lives, not private profit, and the total reorganisation of economic and social life by workers governments.

This is the perspective fought for only by the Socialist Equality Party. In order to advance this program in the broadest possible manner, we will be standing candidates in the federal election, despite the new anti-democratic electoral laws pushed through parliament jointly by Labor and the Coalition.

But there must be no illusions that socialism can be achieved through the parliamentary apparatus of capitalism. Indeed, the electoral laws are a warning of the anxiety and determination of the ruling class to silence any opposition from workers and youth. A new revolutionary leadership must be built in the working class to overturn the entire failed capitalist order.
A police car blocks access to a road leading to a fertilizer plant in Winston-Salem, N.C., on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022. A fire and several explosions rocked the plant on Monday night, Jan. 31, 2022, leading to evacuations of people living near the plant. (AP Photo/Skip Foreman)

A dangerous fire which erupted Monday night at the Winston Weaver fertilizer plant in Winston-Salem, North Carolina continued to burn Wednesday, with emergency responders warning of a potential ammonium nitrate explosion arising from the blaze. Authorities immediately urged the evacuation of about 6,000 people, including Wake Forest University students and more than 200 inmates from a nearby prison.

Local officials have reported the cause of the fire remains unclear, while the prospect of an explosion continues to threaten the city. According to Winston-Salems Fire Department, an evacuation notice was placed for those residing at least one-mile away from the plant to escape the still burning fire and residents of nearly 2,500 homes were ordered to leave the vicinity.

A Winston-Salem City council member who represents the North Ward district where the plant is located told local media Tuesday that about 500 tons of the ammonium nitrate was in the building and the rest is on a rail car on the back of the facility that contains about 100 tons of the chemical. And 5,000 tons of finished fertilizer was also found on-site.

The citys fire chief, Trey Mayo, also confirmed in a news conference Tuesday that hundreds of tons of ammonium nitrate were at the Weaver plant when the fire flared. Mayo compared it to a fire at a fertilizer storage and distribution plant in West, Texas in 2013, in which 240 tons of the same product exploded, destroying or severely damaging nearly 200 homes and killing 15 people.

Mayo referenced the 2013 disaster in Texas, one of the most devastating industrial fires ever recorded, to make clear how catastrophic and lethal Mondays fire could be. If that doesnt convey the gravity of the situation and how serious folks need to take it, he said, I dont know how else to verbalize that. Asked by a reporter how much of the nitrate chemical was in line of fire on Tuesday, Chief Mayo responded, all of it.

At a news conference on Wednesday, Winston-Salem Fire Department Division Chief Bobby Wade said the possibility of explosion has not gone down from yesterday despite initial assessments made by first responders that the explosion risk would be lower by this point. Fire Chief Mayo called the chemical compound somewhat unpredictable. Ammonium nitrate is used to make fertilizer and can fuel fires under certain conditions, including through heat exposure.

Officials on Tuesday had been able to shut off two lines that were flowing natural gas in the vicinity of the fertilizer plant, the fire chief said, warning residents that they could be affected by a haze in the air. While the odor from the gas is considered an irritant and not necessarily toxic, Mayo warned people with sensitive respiratory systems should avoid being outside and forgo exercising, running and even walking.

Wade said in the early morning update on Wednesday that it was not clear when residents would be able to return to their homes. He warned that cold temperatures were causing the smoke from the fire to lie low and advised people with respiratory problems to stay indoors.

The Winston Weaver fertilizer plant is a subsidiary of Winston Weaver Company, Inc. which was founded in 1929 in Norfolk, Virginia. The plants operations revolve around making fertilizers and plant food that is sold primarily at Lowes stores across the southern US. According to the corporations business directory, it has a total of 35 employees and generates about $19.35 million in sales annually.

Like most fertilizer production plants, the Winston-Salem facility used the highly inflammable ammonium nitrate, a chemical which is commonly used in agricultural fertilizers. The compound has proven to be highly combustible and produces toxic oxides of nitrogen when it burns, according to the National Institute of Health. It is often used to make fertilizers and explosives, while also used in the production of freezing mixtures, matches, pyrotechnics (fireworks), and as a nutrient in producing antibiotics and yeast.

Ammonium nitrate is frequently added to improve a fertilizers nitrogen content and is favored as a cheap product to manufacture, making the chemical a popular alternative for fertilizer corporations seeking to cut costs and avoid more expensive nitrogen sources. Although touted as a compound that is relatively stable under most conditions, ammonium nitrate carries dangerous lethal potential if it comes into contact with an open flame or other ignition source, which can lead to a violent explosion. Ammonium nitrate was the chemical used in the 1996 Oklahoma City terrorist bombings.

The most infamous explosion involving ammonium nitrate was the 1947 Texas City disaster, the deadliest industrial accident in US history and one of world historys largest non-nuclear explosions. A tossed cigarette triggered a fire aboard a ship carrying about 2,300 tons of ammonium nitrate. This blast led to a chain reaction of fires and explosions in nearby ships and facilities, killing at least 581 people.

Given the potential deadliness of the chemical, safety regulations and inspections are critical for preventing nitrate-induced fires. Winston-Salem Fire Chief Mayo reported the company was inspected in December of last year and that no problems had been discovered at the plant. The only recently reported safety issue at the plant came from an Occupational Safety and Health Administration workplace investigation back in 2014 when a worker fell through the facilitys rooftop while doing repairs. The company was given a slap on the wrist fine of $9,000.

While Mayo claimed that Winston Weaver passed their December inspection, the fire chief acknowledged there was no fire code present when the 80-year-old fertilizer plant was built, and that the building was missing a working sprinkler system and alarm system, neither of which it was required to have installed.

Mayos recognition of the lack of a sprinkler system is significant given his reference to the April 2013 explosion of West Fertilizer, a fertilizer plant in West, Texas. An investigation into the disaster by the US Chemical Safety Board at the time discovered the plant lacked a number of basic, common-sense safeguards and preventative measures, including a working sprinkler system.

The Chemical Safety Board censured both state and federal officials for having failed to issue regulations governing plants like West Fertilizer. The company allowed the fertilizer to be stored at the plant in wooden bins, in a wooden building without a sprinkler system.

A report submitted by the Safety Board to a Senate Committee was an indictment of the negligent and careless indifference of regulatory agencies, who act to whitewash the profit-driven decisions of corporations. To summarize, the safety of ammonium nitrate storage falls under a patchwork of U.S. regulatory standards and guidance - a patchwork that has many large holes, the report read.

Information that surfaced in the weeks following the West, Texas inferno pointed to severe regulatory and zoning failures which contributed to the tragedy. The hazardous material stored in the plant was located next to a school, park apartment complex and nursing home. In fact, the enforcement of health and safety regulations was abysmally lacking, a product of decades of deregulation and the gutting of government supervision of private companies.

OSHA officials at the time found five serious violations involving improper storage and handling of anhydrous ammonia and improper respiratory protection for workers. Just like at Winston Weaver, West Fertilizer was cited and fined for safety and environmental violations, but no serious attempts had been made to force the company to fix its operational problems.

The Chemical Safety Board document also noted how the close proximity of homes and other public spaces to the plant in West contributed to the widespread damage, death and injury caused by the explosion, while the lack of regulations put many communities at risk. The report contained numerous warnings concerning the dangerous locations of many other fertilizer plants both in Texas and around the US, stating that such a risk to the public from a catastrophic incident exists at least within the state of Texas, if not more broadly.

The ongoing blaze in Winston-Salem is confirmation that nearly a decade later none of the recommendations issued by the Chemical Safety Board, including a revision of a federal chemical-safety program to include fertilizer-grade ammonium nitrate and requiring automatic fire-sprinkler systems for the chemicals indoor storage, have been seriously enforced. It is yet another exposure of how all social questions are subordinated to profit interests and the accumulation of wealth.
Amid heightened military tension over the build-up of Russian troops along Ukraine's border, the US on Wednesday (local time) announced plans to send an extra 3,000 troops to Eastern Europe. As per Pentagon, the troops will be deployed in a couple of days. Some 1,700 of the troops in the US will be dispatched to Poland, which borders Ukraine. Another 300 troops in the US will go to Germany, while 1,000 troops in Germany will be sent to Romania, also neighbouring Ukraine, reported NHK World. Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby explained that the US forces are intended to reinforce Eastern European NATO allies. Kirby said the troops are being sent under bilateral agreements with Poland, Germany, and Romania, and will remain under US command. He stressed that move is not permanent, and the troops will not fight in Ukraine. Kirby said the deployments are in addition to the 8,500 service members in the US whom the defense secretary gave prepare-to-deploy orders last month, reported NHK World. The Pentagon last month put 8,500 troops on high alert to deploy, largely to bolster NATO's response force -- a multinational force of about 40,000 troops that can deploy on short notice. Kirby said these troops have not been deployed and remain on high alert status, reported The Hill. He said US officials still do not believe Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a decision "to further invade Ukraine," but that he has the capability to do so. He said, "These movements are unmistakable signals to the world that we stand ready to reassure our NATO allies to deter and defend against any aggression." Russia has amassed upward of 100,000 troops near its border with Ukraine, and the Biden administration is now warning that a military incursion of Ukraine is imminent. (ANI)
Bondi cafe Bennet St Dairy has teamed up with Aussie confectionery brand Darrell Lea to launch a limited edition cookie dough flavour for Valentine's Day.

The popular eatery is known for its iconic cookie dough that spiked in popularity during the Covid 2020 lockdown when the cafe started delivering the product to customers stuck at home.

The latest offering, priced at just $13, features Bennett St Dairy's famous cookie dough mixed with chunks of Darrell Lea's White Chocolate Raspberry Bullets block for the ultimate treat.

The new product from the two beloved brands provides a flavour sensation of sweetness, crunch and chewiness.

The 500g chunks of pre-packed cookie dough are available at selected IGA stores in New South Wales and Victoria or online via the Bennett St Dairy website (for Sydney customers only).

The latest cookie dough product from Bennett St Dairy is made using Darrell Lea raspberry bullets for a tasty flavour sensation

The pre-packaged cookie dough allows customers to decide for themselves how big or small they'd like their cookies to be - with some opting to make one large cookie, eight smaller cookies or multiple tiny cookies

Bennett St Dairy co-founder, James Meek, said: 'We jumped at the opportunity to partner with an iconic Australian brand such as Darrell Lea. Their delicious, high-quality confectionery is a perfect fit for our cookie dough.

'While Valentine's Day looks a bit different this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation and the fact many people will be isolating, we think staying in and baking our new limited-edition flavour is an intimate way to mark the occasion.

'Whether you're spending it with loved ones at home or are single and in need of some self-care and self-indulgence, our Valentine's Day cookie dough is a heart-warming treat.'

The pre-packaged cookie dough allows customers to decide for themselves how big or small they'd like their cookies to be - with some opting to make one large cookie, eight smaller cookies or multiple tiny cookies.

It comes with easy-to-follow cooking instructions and will take no longer than 15 minutes to bake in the oven.

The cookie dough can also be stored for up to two weeks in the fridge or three months in the freezer.

It comes with easy-to-follow cooking instructions and will take no longer than 15 minutes to bake in the oven

The 500g chunks of cookie dough are available at selected IGA stores in New South Wales and Victoria or online via the Bennett St Dairy website (for Sydney customers only)

Darrell Lea made its first foray into white chocolate blocks last year with the release of their White Chocolate Raspberry Bullets Block.

Johanna Campbell, General Manager, Marketing at Darrell Lea said: 'We love celebrating special occasions with Australians throughout the year and delighting consumers with new and delicious recipes and flavours.

'We are delighted to collaborate with Bennett St Dairy this Valentine's Day to offer treat- lovers a delicious combination of gooey homemade Bennett St Dairy cookie dough and our palm oil free and sustainably sourced White Chocolate Raspberry Bullets block.'

Last September Bennet St Dairy launched the cookie dough in Woolworths stores and sold out of stock in only one day

James Meek, 38, previously told Daily Mail Australia he received the 'unexpected' call from Woolworths earlier this year to discuss a possible partnership trial

Last September Bennet St Dairy launched the chocolate chip and white chocolate macadamia cookie dough flavours in Woolworths stores, which sold out of stock in only one day.

James previously told Daily Mail Australia he received the 'unexpected' call from Woolworths to discuss a possible partnership trial.

'We were surprised from the response because we're not a huge marketing machine, simply a small business,' James said.

He said the interest likely sparked after the cafe started stocking the 500g packs of cookie dough in smaller retailers - including Romeo's IGA.
As schools--closed for a large part of the last two years because of the Covid-19 pandemic--are set to re-open, the Union government has increased the budget for a key education programme, Samagra Shiksha, to Rs 37,383 crore in the 2022-23 budget, up by 20% from Rs 31,050 crore in 2021-22. Money well spent as part of this programme will be key to help children get back to school, train teachers and support them, as most other sources of the states' funds are spent on salaries and administrative expenses, finds our analysis.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

With American hospitals facing a dire shortage of nurses amid a slogging pandemic, many are looking abroad for health care workers.

And it could be just in time.

Theres an unusually high number of green cards available this year for foreign professionals, including nurses, who want to move to the United States  twice as many as just a few years ago. Thats because U.S. consulates shut down during the coronavirus pandemic werent issuing visas to relatives of American citizens, and, by law, these unused slots now get transferred to eligible workers.

Registered Nurse Jorge Almeida Neri, originally from Portugal, takes his picture on his way to work in Newport News, Va., on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022. Almeida Neri, a 26-year-old nurse from Portugal, arrived in the United States in December though he began the process before the pandemic. He said a required international nursing exam was delayed due to the virus and it took four months to get a consular interview, though other international nurses he's met waited much longer. He interviewed for his current job at a Virginia hospital, which he got through a staffing agency, about a year ago. (Jorge Almeida Neri via AP)

Amy L. Erlbacher-Anderson, an immigration attorney in Omaha, Nebraska, said she has seen more demand for foreign nurses in two years than the rest of her 18-year career. And this year, she said, its more likely theyll get approved to come, so long as U.S. consular offices can process all the applications.

We have double the number of visas weve had available for decades, she said. That is kind of temporarily creating a very open situation.

U.S. hospitals are struggling with a shortage of nurses that worsened as pandemic burnout led many to retire or leave their jobs. Meanwhile, coronavirus cases continue to rise and fall, placing tremendous pressure on the health care system. In California alone, theres an estimated gap of 40,000 nurses, or 14% of the workforce, according to a recent report by the University of California, San Francisco.

Hospitals are filling the gap by hiring traveling nurses, but that can be expensive. And hospital administrators say not enough nurses are graduating from U.S. schools each year to meet the demand.

Some hospitals have long brought nurses from the Philippines, Jamaica and other English-speaking countries, and more are now following suit. And both longtime recruiters and newcomers are trying to take advantage of the green card windfall before the fiscal year ends in September.

The U.S. typically offers at least 140,000 green cards each year to people moving to the country permanently for certain professional jobs, including nursing. Most are issued to people who are already living in the United States on temporary visas, though some go to workers overseas. This year, 280,000 of these green cards are available, and recruiters hope some of the extras can be snapped up by nurses seeking to work in pandemic-weary hospitals in the United States.

The Biden administration, which has made moves to reverse Trump-era policies restricting legal immigration, has taken some steps to try to help foreign health care workers so they can assist with the pandemic. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said it would speed the renewal of work permits for health care workers, which could help keep some foreign citizens already in the United States on the job. The State Department told consulates last year to prioritize applications for workers at facilities that are responding to the pandemic, an agency official said.

Faith Akinmade, a 22-year-old nurse from Nigeria, is among those hoping for a quick solution. After completing college in the U.S., Akinmade has been working as an ICU nurse for University of Louisville Hospital in Kentucky. But her work permit is set to expire in March. She said she needs it renewed, or her green card approved, to stay on the job.

At this point and time, I just feel like I have faith that at the end of March something is going to show up to continue to work, Akinmade said. She said the issue affects many of her international colleagues as well as domestic ones, who may be pressed to take on shifts for colleagues if their immigration paperwork doesnt come through.

Dr. Roxie Wells, president of Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital in Raeford, North Carolina, said she started trying to bring over foreign nurses before the pandemic, but it wasnt until last year that these recruits started getting consular interviews in larger numbers. So far, about 150 were approved to come work, but Wells said theyre still waiting on another 75.

Obviously it has become more necessary during the pandemic, she said. The 150, if we didnt have them, we would be in a precarious situation.

The surge in the omicron variant in the United States has made the strained staffing situation even more apparent in hospitals as health care workers, like so many others, have been sickened by the highly contagious virus and sidelined from work at a time when more patients are coming in.

Sinead Carbery, president of International Nurse Staffing Solutions for AMN Healthcare, said the demand for international nurses has risen between 300% and 400% since the pandemic began. The number of nurses that can be brought into the United States even with the additional green cards wont be enough to meet demand, and many more recruiters are now seeking to hire nurses overseas because there are immigrant visas available, she said.

This is a window of opportunity, she said. Because everything is flowing so well, theres a lot of competition for that talent.

National Nurses United, a union representing 175,000 registered nurses, said more scrutiny should be given to international recruitment to ensure foreign nurses arent brought in and subjected to unsafe working conditions. The union contends hospitals drove away U.S. nurses by keeping staffing levels so low  and this was well before concerns arose about worker safety and protections during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this Feb. 1, 2022, photo provided by University of Louisville Hospital, Faith Akinmade, an ICU nurse at the University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville, Ky., who is originally from Nigeria, poses for a photo in front of the hospital. After completing college in the United States, Akinmade has been working at the hospital, but her work permit is set to expire in March and she said she needs it renewed, or her green card approved, to stay on the job. Hospitals and recruiters are hoping international nurses like Akimnade and others overseas will be able to snap up a larger-than-usual number of immigrant visas that are available this fiscal year to professionals seeking to move to the United States. (Tom Round/University of Louisville Hospital via AP)

Michelle Mahon, the unions assistant director of nursing practice, said many foreign nurses sign yearslong contracts with employers, which can make it hard for them to speak up about labor or patient safety concerns. She said hospitals that saw nurses quit during the pandemic are turning to an overseas workforce to replace them.

This kind of dynamic is particularly attractive right now to employers who have not made any of the changes necessary to ensure patient and nursing safety during this COVID-19 pandemic, Mahon said. Instead of them addressing the actual problem, they want to go and pivot to this other really fake solution.

Hospital administrators, however, contend there simply arent enough U.S.-trained nurses to go around. Patty Jeffrey, president of the American Association of International Healthcare Recruitment, said the United States should expand nursing education programs to train more nurses domestically, as well as let more nurses come in from overseas. But she acknowledged bringing in a much larger number of nurses would require legislation.

The calls are every day ringing off the hook: We need 100, we need 200, we need all these nurses, Jeffrey said.

Jorge Almeida Neri, a 26-year-old nurse from Portugal, arrived in the United States late last year, though he began the process before the pandemic. He said a required international nursing exam was delayed due to the virus and it took four months to get a consular interview, though other international nurses hes met waited much longer. He interviewed for his current job at a Virginia hospital, which he got through a staffing agency, about a year ago.

After getting everything certified, the immigration process started, and I was like, Oh, this is going to be quick. I was wrong, he said.

Almeida Neri said many Portuguese nurses seek work overseas since wages are low, though many go elsewhere in Europe, which doesnt take as long as the United States.

Despite the demand, theres no guarantee hospitals will in fact snap up more visas. Greg Siskind, an immigration attorney, said U.S. consular offices arent required to issue visas solely because theyre available, and are hampered by limits on remote work and video interviews. He said most employment-based green cards tend to go to professionals already in the United States, not overseas, though more could be done to speed these up, too.

Under their current policies, if they dont make any changes, it is going to be hard, he said of the likelihood the U.S. government will issue all the available visas, but theres a lot of things they could do.

___

This version has been updated to correct the timing of Jorge Almeida Neris arrival in the U.S.
Marshall County may have reached omicron surge peak, but health department head warns it's too soon to celebrate
TURIN, Italy  I want the driver to feel cocooned, just as the woman wearing one of my dresses would be, said Alberta Ferretti.

This was her approach in designing the new limited-edition Lancia Ypsilon Alberta Ferretti compact car, created in a special new color and with sartorial details on the seats.

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Its like a bustier sewn on the body, said the designer, pointing to the fine stitchwork on the seats.

I like the fact that a major industrial organization can personalize a car and make it unique like an atelier would, said Ferretti, walking through Lancias creative studio just outside Turins city center.

Alberta Ferretti - Credit: Lodovico Colli di Felizzano/WWD

Lodovico Colli di Felizzano/WWD

She expressed her surprise in seeing the similarities between Lancias studio and a fashion design office, similarly filled with mood boards, sketches and swatches of fabrics and colors.

I imagined it to be more stern, but here they also look at people and design in function of their needs. Its not so different from my own goal to create looks for my customers, Ferretti said. A few of her ethereal and glimmering chiffon evening gowns and drawings were on display at Lancias headquarters, in color palettes reminiscent of the shade conceived for the car.

Ive learned a lot from this experience, Ferretti said humbly. I had been offered other such projects  even a gig to design a yacht  and I never accepted, but this intrigued me. I was curious about the car, which is dedicated to women. And I loved how the Lancia team was seeing my world through their eyes.

She acknowledged she is gratified whenever she sees women wearing her clothes. I take inspiration from women and modern life, I imagine how I would like to see them, and how their personality should emerge. The same happened with the car and its many details, thinking about women and their needs and aspirations.

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Luca Napolitano, Lancia brands chief executive officer and a member of parent company Stellantis top executive team, said The Ypsilon model is most loved by women, who represent 65 percent of the total number of its customers, and the choice of color is very important to them.

After four generations, with more than 3 million units sold since 1985, in addition to 35 special series, the Lancia Ypsilon is a leader in its segment, he explained.

Ferrettis design, which starts at around 18,500 euros, is available in a hybrid version 1.0 FireFly 70 CV, Start&Stop Hybrid and GPL, 1.2 69 CV GPL.

The pink and gray color that was created especially for this new special series telegraphs Ferrettis desire to represent women with their thousand different facets, pragmatic and contemporary but also romantic and dreamers  the shade changes magically. If you see at it at sunset, its almost as if the light comes from inside the car, she contended.

Indeed, thanks to a special treatment of the paint, it has an iridescent, liquid effect and the pink emerges in the bodywork. I am very proud of the color, its sophisticated, delicate and classic but surprising at the same time, Ferretti said.

Alberta Ferretti - Credit: Lodovico Colli di Felizzano/WWD

Lodovico Colli di Felizzano/WWD

The cars outside details are refined thanks to the satin chrome effect on the rearview mirrors, the grille and the door handle with the designers initials monogrammed via a rose gold chromed badge on the mirrors. The seats are also embroidered with a rose gold yarn and the AF monogram is in the same hue on the headrest of the seats as well as on other details in the car and the black silk dashboard.

The seat materials available include a high quality Seaqual polyester yarn, entirely recycled by the Seaqual Initiative, which works to help clean the oceans.

This attention to sustainability is shared by both Ferretti and Lancia, as Napolitano said, We want to become the firm with the biggest percentage of recycled material.

Asked to comment on teaming with a luxury designer, he was confident in the projects success because of its authenticity. It works whenever there are a common vision and future objectives. If its forced, it doesnt work.

He underscored Lancias heritage  also associated with Le Dolce Vita  and said the positioning and the design of the brand will be further raised with the appointment last year of Jean Pierre Ploue as chief design officer of the Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroen, DS Automobiles, Fiat Europe, Lancia, Opel, Peugeot and Vauxhall brands.

As for her own relationship with autos, Ferretti, who has owned the likes of a green and black Jaguar XK8 and a Range Rover Sport, said: I adore driving, and when I am tired or I need to concentrate, I drive through the hills and medieval hamlets near my home and headquarters [in the Emilia Romagna region], with its incredible nature. Its a way to relax. Sometimes I listen to music, and I personalize the car so I feel like Im in my room looking outside. I make projects, plan things, its incredibly relaxing. Its my room in the hills, she said, smiling.

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Late Tuesday, ABC News suspended American actor and comedian Whoopi Goldberg for two weeks from the daytime talk show The View for insisting on the program the previous day that the Holocaust was not about race.

During a Hot Topics segment Monday, while the panel was discussing the recent banning of Art Spiegelmans graphic novel Maus by a Tennessee school board, Goldberg said, Lets be truthful about it, because the Holocaust isnt about race. No. Its not about race.

When asked by co-host Joy Behar to explain her comments, Goldberg asserted, Its about mans inhumanity to man. Thats what its about, and then added, These are two white groups of people. Youre missing the point. The minute you turn it into race, it goes down this alley. Lets talk about it for what it is. Its how people treat each other. Its a problem. It doesnt matter if youre Black, or white, cause Blacks, whites, Jews, everybody eats other.

Following a media backlashincluding charges that her comments were anti-Semitic, dangerous and provided comfort to fascismGoldberg admitted she was wrong and apologized via Twitter on Monday night. When she appeared on Stephen Colberts The Late Show that evening, she apologized and said that, as a black person, she thinks of racism as only being about skin color and Folks are angry. I accept that and I did it to myself.

Goldberg apologized for a third time on Tuesday at the beginning of The View, saying she felt a responsibility to examine her words and had never intended to upset so many people. She said that she had learned from the experience and was deeply, deeply grateful because the information I got was really helpful and helped me understand some different things.

However, none of this mattered to Kim Godwin, president of ABC News, who said in a statement that Goldbergs comments were wrong and hurtful, and, furthermore, even though, Whoopi has apologized, Ive asked her to take time to reflect and learn about the impact of her comments. The entire ABC News organization stands in solidarity with our Jewish colleagues, friends, family and communities.

While the comments by Whoopi Goldberg expressed confusion and ignorance, they were not anti-Semitic. Her statements expressed a false conception, especially among those influenced by the obsessive racialist categorization of human beings as either people of color or white, that the murder of 6 million Jews by the Nazis during World War II was not about race. However, it is a historical fact that the policy of mass extermination by the Nazis was carried out based on the view that Jews were an inferior race.

It is clear from all that has occurred since Monday that, regardless of the sincerity with which Goldberg has acknowledged her mistake, in the present environment, a badly chosen word or incorrect statement on topics related to racial or ethnic identity can damage or even end a career in almost any field. Rather than expanding the discussion on the nature of anti-Semitism and the social and political causes of the Holocaustsubjects with enormous contemporary relevanceABC News moved quickly to punish Goldberg and bury the issue.

The phony moral outrage of the millionaire executives who run the American media conceals the real facts of life: that anti-Semitism is rife within sections of the ruling elite and that US imperialism has close relations with raving anti-Semites wherever it is politically expedient.

Donald Trump has referred to neo-Nazis and white supremacists as very fine people. He mobilized members of multiple fascist groups as shock troops in the January 6 mob assault on the US Capitol aimed at overturning the 2020 presidential election result.

One of the individuals involved in the attack on Congress, Robert Packer, wore a sweatshirt that read Camp Auschwitz: Work brings freedom, referring to the Nazi death camp in Poland where 1.1 million people were exterminated, the majority of them Jews, and its notorious motto. Packer was welcomed by the January 6 crowd as one of its own. Also in January 2021, at a pro-Trump, Moms for America rally, Republican Congresswoman Mary Miller told the crowd, Hitler was right on one thing. He said, Whoever has the youth has the future.

When a vote in the House was held to remove Georgia Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene, an open anti-Semite and Holocaust denier, from her committee assignments, 199 Republicans voted in her defense.

While Whoopi Goldberg receives a suspension for her comments, none of the fascists serving in Washington or their supporters faces serious media scrutiny or exposure.

Furthermore, while leading Democratic Party officials occasionally criticize Republicans for their extreme right-wing excesses, the Biden administration is currently and publicly in alliance with hard-core fascists and anti-Semites among the Ukrainian militias. As the WSWS has noted, one of the biggest lies of all is that the US and NATO are engaged in a defense of democracy and against foreign aggression. The Ukrainian government and state apparatus is riddled with neo-Nazi paramilitary forces who played a central role in the 2014 putsch. This includes the Svoboda party, which the European Parliament had formally condemned for its racist, anti-Semitic, and xenophobic views, and the neo-Nazi Right Sector militia and Azov Battalion.

The Azov Battalion, among the heroic, democratic forces promoted by Biden and the Democrats, as well as the Republicans, are a group of open admirers of the Nazis whose leader, Andriy Biletsky, has professed his support for the crusade of the white nations of the world against the Semitic-led subhumans.

The media response to Whoopi Goldbergs insensitive remarks about the Holocaust is out of proportion to their content, dishonest and distorted, like so many cultural developments at present.
Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), a US-based think tank for US-India policy studies and awareness, urged US President Joe Biden to reject Pakistan's appointment of the 'Jihadi-terrorist-sympathizer', Masood Khan, as Pakistan's ambassador to the United States. Notably, Masood Khan's nomination was sent to Washington by Pakistan Foreign Office in November last year. The think tank in its press release said that the diplomatic role of Masood Khan in the United States may open an avenue for access for terrorist organizations to U.S. institutions. Furthermore, it rebuked Masood Khan's "former active role as President of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, a territory of India that is illegally occupied by Pakistan" and said that it "would complicate US relations with its strategic partner India." "Human Rights Watch reports that the Pakistani government represses democratic freedoms, muzzles the press, and practices routine torture in the POK. During his rule, various official press releases published by Khan's presidential office included support and praise for terrorists such as Junaid Sehrai and Tariq Ahmed Hizbul.", the thinktank said. It further thrashed Khan and mentioned, "Khan said they are martyrs and called their terrorist acts sacrifices. His firm support of terrorists and separatists in Kashmir will create uneasiness and unwarranted complications in US-India relations when the US may need India's active involvement in the India Pacific region, Afghanistan, and Eurasia." FIIDS also requested US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and members of the Senate and House committees on Foreign Relations to support this rejection, the press release said in its statement. "Masood Khan has repeatedly demonstrated a soft spot for Jihadi-terrorists, including Aafia Siddiqui, a convicted terrorist operative known as "Lady Al-Qaeda." His support to designated terrorist organizations under U.S. law, such as like Hizbul Mujahideen, Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HuM), and Jamaat-e-Islami, is not only inimical to US Interests but also to global peace.", the US-based institute said in its statement. In addition to that, the institute also noted that Masood Khan's support to the Taliban would further adversely affect US interests in Afghanistan. The think tank gave some specifics of Masood Khan's support to Jihadi-terrorists and US-designated terrorist organizations. It said that Masood Khan is a supporter of Aafia Siddiqui, "the lady AI-Qaeda," and had tweeted on May 7, 2020, as "@AmbassadorJones: The US Government can find a way to free Aafia Siddiqui. Washington has negotiated a peace deal with the Taliban, once considered inveterate enemies. Room must now be created for Aafia's freedom. Long overdue." Furthermore, it pointed out that in 2019, Khan shared a stage with Fazlur Rehman Khalil, designated global terrorist and founder of Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HuM), designated as a terrorist organization under US law. "Masood Khan is also a supporter of Jamaat-e-Islami, whose killing squads helped the Pakistani military carry out acts of genocide against Bangladeshis in 1971 when hundreds of thousands of minorities were raped, killed and millions were displaced. ", FIIDS added. The thinktank also said that on the fifth death anniversary of dreaded terrorist Burhan Wani, a former commander of Hizbul Mujahideen - a designated terrorist organization under US law, Khan had called out Burhan Wani as a "role model for the freedom fighters across the globe." (ANI)
YEREVAN.  Hraparak daily of Armenia writes: Since Armen Sarkissian's resignation, the NA [(National Assembly)] opposition has been discussing the matter of a presidential candidate.

At first, they were inclined toward not nominating a candidate at all, as it would be a formality nomination in the case of the ruling majority.

However, as a result of the discussions, they came to the conclusion that the parliament should not be left without an alternative, it is a good chance to talk about the country's problems, to start a new phase of the struggle, to come up with a major candidate.

They said that they considered many candidates. Some did not accept the offerthey were afraid of being targeted by the authorities.

The [NA faction of the opposition] "Armenia" Bloc is inclined toward nominating a candidate equivalent to [the authorities presidential candidate] Vahagn Khachatryana figure of the same period, a public figure, previously held a position who will be acceptable to thinking people, and the unprincipledness of the authorities candidate will be seen against his backdrop.
One can only sympathize with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Vladimir Putin has a dagger aimed at the heart of Ukraine. For months he has mobilized troops along the Ukrainian border. The recent deployment of troops to Ukraines almost undefended border with Belarus raises the possibility of a blitzkrieg strike against Kyiv, the capital.

Zelenskyy has every reason to lose his cool. And yet, he seems to be the only player in this crisis keeping his eye on the ball. In response to President Bidens gaffe about how a minor incursion into Ukraine would probably elicit a more restrained response from America and NATO, Zelenskyy tweeted: We want to remind the great powers that there are no minor incursions and small nations. Just as there are no minor casualties and little grief from the loss of loved ones.

On Friday, he chastised Western powers, including the U.S., for fomenting panic by talking about how a devastating war is now imminent and perhaps inevitable. These signals have come even from respected world leaders, who speak openly and with undiplomatic language. They say simply tomorrow there will be war. This is panic, he said. Zelenskyy reportedly delivered this message to Biden directly.

Sure, Russian officials insist war is the furthest thing from their minds. Putin and his subalterns claim this is defensive deployment. At the U.N. on Monday, Russian ambassador Vassily Nebenzia accused America of whipping up tensions and provoking escalation, repeating that the last thing Russia wants is war. You are almost pulling for this, he said to the American ambassador to the U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield. You want it to happen. Youre waiting for it to happen, as if you want to make your words become a reality.

Contrary to a growing chorus of commentators in the U.S., mostly on the right, who have rallied to Putin, this is balderdash. In affairs of state, yes, words matter. But you know what speaks even louder? Massing battalions of tanks, artillery and 100,000 troops at your border, almost surrounding a neighboring nation.

Even if that didnt send a clear message, Russias claim that an invasion of Ukraine is unthinkable shouldnt pass the laugh test. Remember, its Putin who invaded Ukraine in 2014 and who has actively supported insurgents in eastern Ukraine ever since.

Zelenskyy correctly argues that the U.S. should have implemented sanctions against Russia already, both to signal that Putins de facto threat of war is itself unacceptable and to give Putin a taste of how bad things could be if he keeps up his aggression. Of course, Zelenskyy has a very real incentive to solve the challenge at hand.

The problem is that everyone else wants to talk about the problem they want to have rather than the problem we face. France, per usual, wants to prove it is a great power unto itself and demonstrate its independence by following an independent diplomatic track. Germany is going its own way too, but not because it wants to preen. Its still hobbled by guilt over World War II and entangled with Russia culturally and economically, especially because of its dependence on Russian natural gas.

The Biden administration at times seems more interested in proving the glories of diplomacy in all things, the solidity of the NATO alliance, and Joe Bidens own foreign policy expertise. Given his low approval ratings, which never recovered from the Afghanistan fiasco that arguably helped invite this crisis, the administration would also like Biden not to look weak. These are all understandable priorities, but one can see why they are not Zelenskyys top concerns. Still, the administration can be commended for at least understanding the stakes.

Meanwhile, responsible Republicans like Sen. Rob Portman are quietly trying to play a constructive role. Sen. Mitch McConnell recently said that the Biden administration is moving in the right direction.

The problem is theyre too quiet, drowned out by much louder voices on the right that are increasingly taking a pro-Putin stance and imposing their domestic culture war agenda on the crisis. Tucker Carlson of Fox News bizarrely insists that NATO exists primarily to torment Vladimir Putin, as if Putins propaganda and paranoia are the voice of reason. Carlson asserts that America is pushing Ukraine to join NATO. It isnt.

Some on the right have even convinced themselves that the West is hostile to Putin because he opposes the Wests pro-gay agenda. Others are simply letting partisanship cloud their judgment. Nikki Haley, who was the U.S. ambassador to the U.N. under President Trump, offers the not-so-helpful advice that Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris should resign (which would make Nancy Pelosi president).

One can only hope that its Zelenskyys voice that prevails amid the din.
Traveling from Beijing to New York and thinking about the long never-ending flight? Worry no more! Youll soon be able to reach your destination in no time. A Chinese aerospace firm Space Transportation said it's working on developing an aircraft that will be used as a supersonic business jet which will only take an hour to cover the distance between Beijing and New York.

Space Transportation last year said it has raised $46.3 million for its supersonic space plane, which it further claims will travel at about 2,600 mph. This jet is reported to be six times faster than the commercial aircrafts. The company also said it recently conducted successful test flights on rockets, called Tianxing 1 and Tianxing 2, however, it did not disclose any information regarding the tests. As per sources, the winged rocket is believed to have lower operational costs.

Space Transportation plans to conduct ground tests by 2023 before carrying out its first test flight in 2024. If development proceeds on track, it would have a crewed test flight in 2025. As per officials during a CGI presentation, the passengers were seen boarding the aircraft that is attached to a glider wing with two rocket boosters. The airplane then detaches from the wing after takeoff and flies through suborbital space. The wing and boosters will then land back on the launch pad, while the aircraft proceeds to its destination, landing vertically.

Read also: Watch: Scary moment for passengers as pilot aborts planes landing due to strong crosswinds

This aircraft may be the one to be used as a supersonic business jet, but is not the first one. Concorde, was the first supersonic passenger-carrying commercial airplane (or supersonic transport, SST), built jointly by aircraft manufacturers in Great Britain and France. The Concorde made its first transatlantic crossing on September 26, 1973, and it inaugurated the worlds first scheduled supersonic passenger service on January 21, 1976. The jets were widely used by British Airways and Air France.

However, the aircrafts noise and operating expense limited its service. Financial losses led both airlines to cut routes, eventually leaving New York City as their only regular destination. Concorde operations were finally ceased by Air France in May 2003 and by British Airways in October 2003. Only 14 of the aircraft actually went into service.

On July 25, 2000, a Concorde jet en route from Paris to New York City suffered engine failure shortly after takeoff when debris from a burst tire caused a fuel tank to rupture and burst into flames. This was followed by other incidents due to which the airlines stopped the flights.

Read also: What is KAWACH anti-collision technology and how does it work?

While talking about supersonic jet technology, Boom Technology is one of the most talked-about and one of the leading voices in supersonic flight research. The concept for the Overture airliner was revealed in 2016 and has undergone significant changes since then.

The company has built a one-third scale technology demonstrator, and accepted several dozen orders from major airlines. It expects to test a full-scale prototype of the Overture by 2026, and begin mass-producing the jet by the end of the 2020s. Presenting itself as a successor to the Concorde project  Boom Technology is aiming high. And while the aircraft itself seems unremarkable when compared with other entries on this list, it also appears to be the most realistic, and has the highest probability of being built.

Further, Virgin Galactic last summer launched CEO Sir Richard Branson on an 11-minute suborbital flight, officially introducing the space-tourism industry to the general public. A Virgin Galactic executive said that space tourism would be the companys initial focus, but he also foresaw a time when the fixed-wing aircraft would serve as a supersonic commuter.

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This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  The largest natural lake west of the Mississippi is shrinking past its lowest levels in recorded history, raising fears about toxic dust, ecological collapse and economic consequences. But the Great Salt Lake may have some new allies: conservative Republican lawmakers.

The new burst of energy from the GOP-dominated state government comes after lake levels recently hit a low point during a regional megadrought worsened by climate change. Water has been diverted away from the lake for years, though, to supply homes and crops in Utah. The nations fastest-growing state is also one of the driest, with some of the highest domestic water use.

This year could see big investment in the lake thats long been an afterthought, with Gov. Spencer Cox proposing spending $46 million and the powerful House speaker throwing his weight behind the issue. But some worry that the ideas advancing so far at the state Legislature dont go far enough to halt the slow-motion ecological disaster.

An Antelope Island State Park visitor views the the receding edge of the Great Salt Lake Friday, Jan. 28, 2022, at Antelope Island, Utah. The largest natural lake west of the Mississippi is shrinking past its lowest levels in recorded history, raising fears about toxic dust, ecological collapse and economic consequences. But the Great Salt Lake may have some new allies: conservative Republican lawmakers. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

One proposal would tackle water use in homes and businesses, by measuring outdoor water thats considered some of the countrys cheapest. Another would pay farmers for sharing their water downstream, and a third would direct money from mineral-extraction royalties to benefit the lake.

I long took for granted the lake. Its always been there, and Ive assumed it always would be there, said House speaker Brad Wilson at a summit he convened on the issue. But learning about the lakes precarious position this summer left him terrified. The Great Salt Lake is in trouble.  We have to do something.

The shrinking of the lake poses serious risks to millions of migrating birds and a lake-based economy thats worth an estimated $1.3 billion in mineral extraction, brine shrimp and recreation. Health risks exist too: The massive dry lakebed could send arsenic-laced dust into the air that millions breathe.

The Great Salt Lake needs some leaps to be saved. Its not going to do it with baby steps, said Zach Frankel, executive director of the nonprofit Utah Rivers Council. These are tiny baby steps that should have been taken 20 years ago.

The lake took a pummeling last year, with especially devastating effects on its microbialites, the Great Salt Lakes version of a coral reef. The mushroom-like structures are formed by furry, deep green mats of microbes, which are the base of the lakes food chain and main sustenance for brine shrimp.

The shrimp both support a multimillion-dollar industry supplying food for fish farms and nourish millions of migrating birds whose massive flocks can show up on radar. The lake is also the nations biggest source of magnesium and could soon provide lithium, a key mineral for renewable energy batteries.

But last year the lake matched a 170-year record low and kept dropping, hitting a new low of 4,190.2 feet (1,277.2 meters) in October. A significant portion of the microbialites were exposed to air, killing the vital microbes. The die-off will likely take years and years to repair even if they are fully submerged again, said Michael Vanden Berg, a state geologist.

And if the water levels continue to drop, the lake could get too salty for the edible microbes to survive, something thats already happened in the bright pink waters of the lakes north arm.

Still, Vanden Berg is cautiously optimistic for the south arm, where a portion of the green microbialites did survive last years lake drop.

Its bad but not catastrophic yet, he said. There is still time to fix and mitigate the situation.

In some ways, the fix is simple: More water needs to flow into the lake.

But thats no small task in the state that grew by 18.4% over the past decade, to nearly 3.28 million people.

Utah has relatively inexpensive water overall. A 2015 state audit found Salt Lake City water prices were lower than almost every other city surveyed, including Phoenix, Las Vegas and Santa Fe.

But a subset of homes have access to especially low-price water  the cheapest in the nation, according to the Utah Rivers Council.

About 200,000 homes and businesses pay a flat fee for an entire season of irrigation water. Its called a secondary water system, made from converted agricultural supply in communities that are now largely suburban. Those account for a disproportionately large segment of the states water use  and many of them are on the Great Salt Lake watershed, Frankel said.

Its like an all-you-can-eat buffet, he said. While most people have a water meter on the side of their homes, usage isnt measured for secondary-water users.

But small-scale projects have shown that simply being aware of how much theyre using makes people cut back by 20%, said GOP Utah Rep. Tim Hawkes.

Theres been pushback to change the system before, and part of the reason is the per-meter cost of about $1,500, but the governor has backed spending about $250 million in federal pandemic relief money to install them.

The Utah Rivers Council would like to see people pay more for that water, but theres been little public discussion of that this year. Hawkes argues that even conserving 20% through awareness would dramatically increase the chances that the lake stays healthy.

This year is shaping up to be a wetter year than 2021, but that doesnt immediately translate to more water for the lake. First comes replenishing drinking water supplies. Then comes the lake.

And homes and businesses arent the only ones that need moisture. About 65% of the water on the Great Salt Lake watershed goes to agriculture. Farmers have a right to that water, and under historic laws they could lose the water they dont use.

Right now, theres actually a disincentive for agriculture to conserve, or optimize, the water theyre using, said Republican Rep. Joel Ferry.

Hes sponsoring legislation that would let farmers get paid for water they let flow to the Great Salt Lake and other bodies. Because each farm is so much larger than the average home, even slight adjustments can have a major impact.

Under his plan, which has advanced at the state Legislature, it would be up to each farm to decide whether to sell water in a given year. The fund would also likely start with some federal pandemic money, and backers would hope to get donations as it continues.

This is going to be a slow start, said Ferry, who is a farmer himself. We recognize theres a problem, and farmers want to be part of the solution.  Ultimately the solutions to this are going to be expensive.

The costs of doing nothing may be even higher. The draining of Californias Owens Lake as Los Angeles grew has cost billions. Overseas, the Aral Sea became as source of toxic dust after its water was diverted away by the former Soviet Union. Experts estimate a drying Great Salt Lake could cost Utah more than $2 billion every year.

Theres a real question about what happens next. Are we going to break through some critical thresholds here in the next little bit if we continue to go lower? Hawkes said. If we act now and we are thoughtful about it  theres a good chance we can keep the lake healthy and happy  and us along with it.
A total of 42 patients succumbed to the viral disease in the past 24 hours. With this, the death toll reached 29,372.

Furthermore, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) said the number of patients in critical care in various hospitals across the country rose to 1,590.

According to the NCOC, a total of 59,786 samples were tested, out of which 5,830 turned out to be positive.

The Covid positivity rate showed as 9.75 per cent compared to yesterday's 9.88 per cent, reported the news channel.

Notably, Pakistan is facing a deadly fifth wave of COVID and on Wednesday, it emerged that 54 per cent of Karachi's population is still unvaccinated against COVID-19, reported the news channel. (ANI)
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This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

TOKYO (AP)  More than a year ago Sebastian Bressa finished his paperwork to become a language teacher in Tokyo and made plans to quit his job in Sydney. His life has been in limbo ever since.

Japan has kept its door closed to most foreigners during the pandemic, and the 26-year-old Australian is one of hundreds of thousands denied entry to study, work or see their families.

Japan has become one of the worlds most difficult countries to enter and some are comparing it to the locked country, or sakoku, policy of xenophobic warlords who ruled Japan in the 17th to 19th centuries. The current border rules allow in only Japanese nationals and permanent foreign residents, and have raised the ire of foreign students and scholars who say the measures are unfair, unscientific and force talented visitors to go to other countries. Critics say the rules are also hurting Japans international profile and national interest.

In this photo provided by Sebastian Bressa, Bressa visits Meiji shrine during his trip in Tokyo, Japan, on Oct. 2019. More than a year ago Bressa finished his paperwork to become a language teacher in Tokyo and made plans to quit his job in Sydney. His life has been in limbo ever since. Hundreds of thousands of foreigners have been denied entry to study, work or visit families in Japan, which has kept its doors closed to most overseas visitors during the pandemic.(Sebastian Bressa via AP)

About half a million foreigners  including academics, researchers and others with highly skilled jobs and 150,000 foreign students  have been affected, various statistics show.

I think the most difficult thing for me has been this state of living in standby, Bressa said. He has been unable to commit himself to any long-term plans with his family, friends or even at work. I cant plan that far ahead in the future, just not knowing where I end up the next month or two.

Frustrated students have gathered near Japanese diplomatic compounds around the world to protest.

In Spains second-largest city of Barcelona, Laura Vieta stood outside of the Japanese Consulate last week, holding up a sign saying Stop Japans Travel Ban.

I gave up my job because I thought I was going to Japan in September, said Vieta, 25, who wants to study Japanese at a private school for six months or longer. As you can see, Im still here.

Japan plans to keep the border measures in place through the end of February as it copes with a record surge of cases in Tokyo and other major cities. Makoto Shimoaraiso, a Cabinet official working on Japans COVID-19 response, said the situation is painful but he asked for patience, noting much higher infection levels overseas.

Japan recently decided to let nearly 400 students enter, but many others including those on foreign government-sponsored scholarships still cannot get in.

A letter to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, signed by hundreds of academics and Japan experts and submitted last month in a petition drive, called for a relaxation of the border controls to enable educators, students and scholars to pursue their studies and work in Japan. It said many already have given up Japan studies, opting to focus elsewhere, such as South Korea.

They become the bridges between Japan and other societies. They are future policymakers, business leaders, and teachers. They are the foundation of the U.S.-Japan alliance and other international relationships that support Japans core national interests, the letter said. The closure is harming Japans national interests and international relationships.

Japan is not the only country imposing strict border controls, but the policy is drawing criticism from within Kishidas governing party and from the business community.

Taro Kono, an outspoken lawmaker who has studied at Georgetown University and served as foreign and defense minister, urged that the government reopen the country so that students and others waiting for an entry can have a future outlook and make plans.

In this photo provided by Sebastian Bressa, Bressa visits a bamboo grove during his trip in Tokyo, Japan, on Oct. 2019. More than a year ago Bressa finished his paperwork to become a language teacher in Tokyo and made plans to quit his job in Sydney. His life has been in limbo ever since. Hundreds of thousands of foreigners have been denied entry to study, work or visit families in Japan, which has kept its doors closed to most overseas visitors during the pandemic.(Sebastian Bressa via AP)

Masakazu Tokura, head of Japans powerful business organization Keidanren, recently said the border measures were unrealistic and are disrupting business. He called for a quick end to the locked country situation.

On Thursday, The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, the European Business Council in Japan and the International Bankers Association of Japan, in a joint statement, said the entry ban has imposed real and increasing economic and human costs. They urged the government to quickly adopt a science-based entry policy to accept vaccinated business travelers, students, teachers and separated family members.

However, the border controls have wide public support. Many Japanese tend to think troubles such as the pandemic come from outside their island nation.

Tightening border controls quickly after omicron outbreaks began overseas may have been unavoidable, Nihon University crisis management professor Mitsuru Fukuda said, but the decision to exclude only foreigners appears aimed at rallying public support. With careful preventive measures, Japan could allow foreign visitors just as many other countries are doing, he said.

Crisis management is for the protection of peoples daily lives and happiness, and people should not have to compromise their freedom and human rights in exchange for their lives, Fukuda said.

Japans coronavirus cases plunged as delta variant infections subsided in the fall, and Kishida has said closing the border to most foreign travelers in late November helped delay the latest surge in infections. He contends that overreacting is better than doing too little, too late.

He was likely taking a lesson from his predecessor, Yoshihide Suga, who stepped aside after only a year in office partly due to his administrations perceived weak handling of the pandemic.

Japan has just begun giving booster shots, but only 3.5% of the population have received them, and the medical system has been inadequately prepared for the latest huge wave of cases, leaving many sick with COVID-19 to isolate at home.

The border closures did not keep omicron out of U.S. military bases, where Japan has no jurisdiction, including troops that fly directly into the country without observing Japanese quarantine requirements. They were not tested for weeks, until Tokyo asked them to.

Clusters of cases among U.S. troops rapidly spread into neighboring communities including those in Okinawa, home to the majority of the 50,000 American troops in Japan, beginning in late December. Infections at U.S. bases exceeded 6,000 last month.

On Wednesday, Japan reported nearly 95,000 new confirmed cases, a record, and Tokyos cases exceeded 20,000 for the first time. Some pandemic restrictions are now in effect in much of Japan, including Tokyo and other big cities like Osaka and Kyoto, for the first time since September.

Laura Vieta, right, and Cinta Bazan take part in protest in front of the Japanese consulate in Barcelona, Spain, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022. They loved Japanese culture so much that they both made sacrifices to study Japanese language, with long-term plans to relocate to the country and start careers there. The two women were the only protesters that showed up at the gates of the Japanese consulate in Barcelona, each of them carrying a self-printed sign reading "Stop Japan Ban." Their protest responded to online calls for similar action at embassies and consulates in different corners of the world. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

Phillip Lipscy, a political science professor at Toronto University in Canada who is part of the petition drive, said he was denied entry despite his Japanese roots and his dedication to the study of Japan.

I grew up in Japan. I am a native speaker of the language, my mother is Japanese and she lives in Tokyo. But under the current policy I cannot enter Japan because of the color of my passport, Lipscy told an online meeting.

With the outlook uncertain, many people are changing their studies or careers, he said.

These are fateful decisions with long term consequences, he said. The border closure is depriving Japan of a generation of admirer, friends and allies.

___

This story corrects the name of Japanese university to Nihon University.

___

Associated Press journalists Chisato Tanaka in Tokyo, Hernan Munoz in Barcelona, Spain, and Aritz Parra in Madrid contributed to this report.
QAnon leader Ron Watkins claimed in an interview last year that he would "raise at least a million dollars" for his Congressional run. Ron Watkins

QAnon leader Ron Watkins claimed he would raise $1 million while running for Congress in Arizona.

However, Watkins' GOP primary war chest stands at just over $32,942.22, per FEC filings.

Eli Crane, a former Navy SEAL, leads the GOP field with just over $810,000 in funds raised.

QAnon leader Ron Watkins is running for Congress in Arizona, but the size of his campaign's war chest pales in comparison to other candidates in the field.

According to FEC filings for the three months ending December 31, 2021, Watkins raised a total of $32,942.22 in his run for a congressional seat. This included a $2,354 loan from his father, Jim Watkins.

The rest of Watkins' fundraising comprised $11,600, which came from smaller donations of $250 to $1,000 contributed by 25 people, and "unitemized" contributions of $18,988.22.

Watkins' fundraising track record for the quarter pales compared to the current frontrunner, incumbent Democratic lawmaker Tom O'Halleran. O'Halleran has raised more than $1.6 million, with over $435,000 coming in in the last quarter alone. Meanwhile, Eli Crane, a former Navy SEAL, leads the GOP field with just over $810,000 in funds raised.

Watkins said in October in an interview with Vice that he expected to raise a million dollars.

"Mark my words: I am going to raise at least a million dollars and I'm going to win so that the people have a real voice in Washington, DC," Watkins told Vice.

Watkins' campaign manager, science-fiction author Tony Teora, told Vice this week that his candidate's fundraising numbers are below the mark because "we really only started fundraising in December. We had a lot of challenges getting funding solutions online. We built two solutions internally."

"We are confident we can mount a credible campaign because all our donors are small donors, the average donation was around I think $53," Teora added. "It shows Ron has real support from working-class people, not rich lobbyist donors."

Story continues

Watkins' primary form of campaign outreach appears to be his Telegram channel, where he posts messages to close to 400,000 subscribers. In January, he used the platform to share a recording of his appearance at a Scottsdale school board meeting where he ranted about critical race theory and "transsexual brainwashing propaganda."

Watkins has widely been rumored to be the person behind QAnon, the baseless right-wing conspiracy theory that alleges former President Donald Trump is fighting a "deep state" cabal of human traffickers.

However Watkins, in an October interview with CBS News, denied involvement in the QAnon conspiracy: "I am not Q. I never have been Q. I've never written a Q post. I've never collaborated with the people that have written a Q post. So, no, I was not involved in that," he told the network.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Amid the ongoing military standoff with the Chinese military, the top brass of the Indian Army, led by Army Chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane, is carrying out an operational review of the situation along the borders with China and Pakistan on Wednesday in view of the recent changes in the leadership in Northern and Eastern Commands. "This would be Lt Gen Manoj Pande''s first meeting as the Vice Chief of Army Staff while Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi is the new Northern Army Commander. Lt Gen RP Kalita also took over as the Eastern Army Commander on February 1", Army officials told ANI. The meeting comes soon after the leadership changes came into effect on February 1. India and China have been engaged in a military standoff for almost two years now and efforts are being made to resolve the issue amicably. However, the forces are ready for any eventuality and recently the Army Chief had stated clearly that in case of a war, India will emerge victorious. The top Army brass would also look into issues related to the Military Secretary''s branch in the meeting today. (ANI)
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Former Kansas senator and celebrated World War II hero Bob Dole was laid to rest with a three-volley salute and full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday

Dole died on December 5, 2021, after a battle with lung cancer. He was 98. The service at Arlington has been pending since then after a series of national and statewide tributes.

Family and close friends said their final farewell to the former U.S. Senate majority leader at the invitation-only memorial and graveside services. The memorial service was held at Memorial Chapel at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Fort Myer, Virginia, and graveside services followed at Arlington National Cemetery.

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation posted messages from the service inside the chapel.

'May God Bless Bob Dole. A man that so many people loved. His life and legacy lives on in us when we act with courage in service to others,' Major Mel OMalley, chaplain, U.S. Army, said.

'God took the initiative on this Kansas athlete doing his thing. A God so wise, he knew what was best for Bob. A God so powerful he could do what was best for Bob. What a life,' Rear Admiral Barry C. Black, chaplain, U.S. Senate, said.

'The secret of Bobs great life is that he became a "whosoever." He left a legacy of not just how to live but how to die,' Black said.

The band played America the Beautiful as the casket team folded his flag. Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley went down on one knee to hand it to former Sen. Elizabeth Dole.

Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley goes down on one knee to hand flag to Bob Dole's widow, former Sen. Elizabeth Dole

Former Sen. Elizabeth Dole holds the U.S. flag close to her heart after it was presented to her during the burial service for her late husband Bob Dole

A military honor guard carries the casket containing the remains of Bob Dole during his burial services at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022

Family and close friends said their final farewell to Dole at the invitation-only memorial and graveside services at Memorial Chapel at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Fort Myer, Virginia, and graveside services followed at Arlington National Cemetery (pictured)

Former Sen. Elizabeth Dole of N.C., listens as Taps is played during the burial service for her late husband Bob Dole's burial service Wednesday

A military honor guard folds a U.S. flag over Dole's casket to present to his widow

A military honor guard folds a U.S. flag over Dole's casket to present to his widow

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley salutes former Sen. Elizabeth Dole of N.C., after presenting a U.S. flag during her late husband's burial service

A military honor guard carries the casket containing the remains of Bob Dole. Dole, who was wounded in World War II, served nearly 36 years in Congress and was the GOPs leader in the Senate for more than a decade

Dole now rests alongside around 400,000 other distinguished military members buried at Arlington over the last 150 years

Dole, who was wounded in World War II, served nearly 36 years in Congress and was the GOPs leader in the Senate for more than a decade. In February 2021, he announced he had been diagnosed with cancer.

Dole has been celebrated for his military service, advocating for veterans and spearheading the drive to get the World War II Memorial built on the National Mall in Washington.

In December, Dole lay in state at the U.S. Capitol, as President Biden and others gathered to pay tribute to an 'American giant.'

At Dole's burial service Wednesday, a three-volley salute and the playing of taps was followed by the folding of the flag adorning Doles casket and presented to his family.

Dole now rests alongside around 400,000 other distinguished military members buried at Arlington over the last 150 years.

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden pay their respects during a Congressional memorial service for former Sen. Bob Dole (R-KS) at the US Capitol in Washington DC, on Thursday, December 9, 2021. Dole, who served on Capitol Hill for 36 years, died in his sleep on December 5 at the age of 98

Former Sen. Bob Dole, right, and his wife Elizabeth Dole acknowledge well-wishers during a Memorial Day ceremony, Monday, May 27, 2019. Dole was buried Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022, at Arlington National Cemetery

Dole, who was buried Wednesday, was a Senator from 1969-1996, ran for president 3 times and became the Republican nominee for president in 1996. Pictured: US President-elect George HW Bush (1924 - 2018) (left) and US Senate Minority Leader Bob Dole speak with journalists at a press conference in 1988

His widow, Elizabeth Dole, former Cabinet secretary and North Carolina Sen. Elizabeth Dole, was in attendance, along with about 00 close family members close friends.

Dole, a native of Russell in western Kansas, was the 1996 Republican presidential nominee, losing that year to incumbent Democrat Bill Clinton. He served nearly 36 years in Congress and was the GOPs leader in the Senate for more than a decade.

While Dole could be sharply partisan, he has been remembered as a pragmatic congressional leader willing to compromise to pass legislation such as the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. He also was known for his self-deprecating wit.

Dole has been celebrated for his military service, advocating for veterans and spearheading the drive to get the World War II Memorial built on the National Mall in Washington.

He was severely wounded in fighting as a 21-year-old Army platoon leader in northern Italy in 1945. As he charged a German position, a shell fragment hit him, crushing two vertebrae and paralyzing his arms and legs.

He spent three years recovering in a hospital and never regained use of his right hand. He became a lawyer and began his political career in the early 1950s with a term in the Kansas House.
Melinda Gates, Co-Chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, speaks during the opening ceremony of the Generation Equality Forum at the Louvre Carrousel in Paris, France, June 30, 2021. REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes

Feb 2 (Reuters) - Melinda French Gates is no longer pledging to donate most of her wealth to the charitable foundation she co-founded with her former husband and will instead disburse the funds among other philanthropies, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The 57-year-old Texas-raised computer scientist made the change in late 2021 in her first individual pledge letter, the newspaper said, citing people familiar with the matter.

The move follows her divorce last year from Microsoft Corp co-founder Bill Gates.

The couple had pledged in 2010 to give the bulk of their fortune to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which was founded in 2000 and spent $55 billion in its first two decades, with a focus on combating poverty, inequity and disease.

The foundation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"I recognize the absurdity of so much wealth being concentrated in the hands of one person, and I believe the only responsible thing to do with a fortune this size is give it away - as thoughtfully and impactfully as possible," French Gates wrote in her pledge letter, the Wall Street Journal said.

(Reporting by Nathan Layne in Wilton, Connecticut; Editing by Will Dunham)
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Ewout Rijk de Vries and his wife, Jill, brought America Travel Arrangements to Marco Island almost 40 years ago. They specialize in high end small adventure tours and small safari groups for clientele all over the world, but also are experts on high end cruises with the help of longtime assistant and friend, Michelle Wegman. In combination with his writing and photography, Ewout has visited over 90 countries.
Its known as the breadbasket of New Zealand, but Mid Canterbury is facing a worker burnout to complete this years harvest.

The issue is a worker shortage due to delays in skilled overseas workers getting into the country.

The Government announced changes in December to the class exemption scheme and securing more visas for overseas workers, but the amendment was only actioned last Friday.

Ashburton Mayor and farmer Neil Brown says there is likely to be a worker burnout due to labour shortage for harvest, with farmers and contractors working long hours after government delays around migrant workers getting into the country.

Im reasonably certain the harvest will be done but what its doing is the farm staff and contractors that are available are working harder and longer and they will burn out.

[The harvest] is a farmers income, so they will do everything they can to get it on time and beat the weather.

Consumers will be hoping they do or they will face further price spikes.

The disappointing factor for Brown is that the visa issue has been an ongoing discussion with the Government for two years.

And it hasnt been remedied.

Federated Farmers Mid Canterbury president David Clark says there isnt a lot farmers and contractors could do other than get on with the job.

Regardless of the political ineptitude well get through. We always do, Clark says.

But we are all working long hours and if the weather turns against us in the harvest its going to be a massive problem.

Contractors are profoundly short of staff and there is massive pressure on everybody.

Everyone is on farm now doing the essential work and everything else is not getting done.

Methven-based May Brothers Contracting managing director and harvesting manager, Phil May, says the delays in getting overseas workers is going to have a massive impact.

We are having to train and upskill people but you can only do so much and that takes time.

Pre-Covid he says they were usually getting in around 25 workers in a normal season.

This season he says they are around 10 staff short, making some long hours for the staff they did have.

Its not ideal and frustrating as you feel for the staff you do have, but harvest doesnt stop for anyone.

Clark says with the government being aware of the issue, its continued mishandling was another slap in the face for primary industry.

The agriculture minister needs to be the minister of primary industry and actually go into bat for us.

If it wasnt for the primary sector in New Zealand this country would be hanging up the in receivership sign.

The continued delays in the process means the much needed workers will not arrive until it is probably too late, if they come at all.

O'Connor told Onenews the time between the announcement and amendment being actioned is the standard timeframe.

But Clark says it boils down to the ineptitude of this MIQ system and a philosophical view of this Government that they dont want short term staff coming in from overseas.

[The Government] seem to think we will just magic up some locals to do this work.

The issue is its seasonal work, providing jobs for 3-5 months, he says.

You cant offer someone a full time permanent position. You need a big peak workforce.

Prior to Covid restricted travel, northern hemisphere workers readily arrived here for harvest, and New Zealand workers reciprocated by heading north in winter.

This summer, farmers and contractors are having to make do with the local staff at their disposal.

-Local Democracy Reporting is Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
Seoul, Feb 3 : South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Thursday asked the National Assembly to swiftly approve an extra budget bill designed to help support small merchants hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The budget proposal of 14 trillion won ($11.8 billion) was submitted to the National Assembly last month, reports Yonhap News Agency.

Moon told a meeting with senior aides that "speed is vital" for the extra budget because it aims to provide emergency support to small merchants, according to presidential spokesperson Park Kyung-mee.

Of the proposed budget, 11.5 trillion won will be set aside to support merchants and micro businesses hit by extended antivirus measures.

The government plans to spend 9.6 trillion won to provide 3 million won each to 3.2 million merchants in a bid to help them pay rent and other costs.

Driven by the spread of the highly contagious Omicron variant, South Korea has set records for daily Covid-19 infections this week.

To efficiently cope with a new wave of Omicron, which appears to cause less severe symptoms than previous variants, the government enforced a new virus response system, including an expansion of rapid testing at small hospitals and a reduction of self-isolation periods.

The new system is aimed at minimizing disruptions and focusing on reducing critical cases and deaths.

Moon ordered relevant authorities to make efforts to help people adapt to the new virus response system, Park said.
Bengaluru, Feb 3 : The controversy surrounding the wearing of 'hijab' in a college in Karnataka's Udupi district has spread to more colleges in the state, causing concerns within the Education department as well as parents and students.

The 'hijab versus saffron shawl' issue surfaced at Kundapur Pre-University College in Udupi district and M. Vishweshwaraiah Government Arts and Commerce College in Bhadravati of Shivamogga district on Wednesday.

As 27 Muslim girl students of Kundapur Pre-University College attended classes in hijab, Hindu students came with saffron shawls to the classrooms.

The meeting, which was held with parents of the Muslim students, under the chairmanship of local BJP MLA Haladi Srinivas Shetty could not come to a consensus on the issue.

Shetty has now sought the intervention of the state Education Minister, B.C. Nagesh to handle the issue.

The Minister has clearly told the college authorities that students can come to the classrooms only in uniforms and neither hijab nor saffron shawls will be allowed.

However, Hindu Jagaran Vedike leader Jagadish Kukkehalli said that the Hindu students were ready to shun saffron shawls only if Muslim girls attend classes without hijab. If Muslim girls continue to wear hijab, Hindu students will attend classes in saffron shawls, he added.

Tense situation also prevailed in the premises of M. Vishweshwaraiah Government Arts and Commerce College in Bhadravati of Shivamogga district on Wednesday as the Hindu students came in saffron shawls protesting against Muslim students wearing hijab.

The college authorities have said that the uniform code has been in place since 2010. The students have compulsorily come to classes in uniform only. A separate room has been provided for the Muslim students to change hijab and come to classes in uniform.

The students are demanding that if hijab and burqa are permitted, then saffron shawls must also be allowed in the classrooms. Since the state is entering election year as general elections are scheduled to be held in 2023, the ruling BJP government is dealing cautiously with the issue considering its sensitivity.

The state government has set up a high-level committee to decide on allowing the wearing of hijab by students in classrooms. Until the report is submitted, the government has asked students to attend classes in uniform without wearing hijab.

Meanwhile, political development is taking a communal turn threatening the academic atmosphere.

The Campus Front of India (CFI), the student wing of Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), is holding seminars on how the BJP government is trampling upon the constitutional right of the Muslim girls by not allowing them to wear hijab.

Hindu organisations have pitched in and said that if Muslim students come to school in hijab, the Hindu students will also wear saffron shawls while attending classes.

With Sri Ram Sena Founder, Pramod Muthalik urging the state government to expel the students who insist on wearing hijab from colleges triggering a controversy, the issue is all set to take a communal turn.

With two months left for the examination, the issue is threatening to snowball into a major controversy.

The 'hijab versus saffron shawl' issue surfaced at Kundapur Pre-University College in Udupi district and M. Vishweshwaraiah Government Arts and Commerce College in Bhadravati of Shivamogga district on Wednesday.

The hijab issue has been discussed at the international level causing a dent to the image of the state known for its progressive administration.

The students of Udupi college have approached the Karnataka High Court on the issue. Udupi BJP MLA has asked the students not to enter the college campus if they are not shunning hijab and if the students are coming to the college in hijab, they are being asked not to attend classes.
Kentucky Derby entrant Medina Spirit works out at Churchill Downs on April 28, 2021 in Louisville, Ky. (Charlie Riedel / Associated Press)

An administrative judge has upheld the suspension of the veterinary license of Dr. Jeff Blea, equine medical director of the California Horse Racing Board. Its the latest turn in what seems to be a political battle between the California Veterinary Medical Board and the CHRB and could leave the states horse racing regulatory body without a full-time equine medical director for up to a year.

The denial of Bleas reinstatement was by Nana Chin, the same administrative law judge who upheld her suspension of Bleas license in an emergency hearing Dec. 24. The latest ruling followed a hearing on Jan. 21 with a determination issued last Friday. It was made public Wednesday on the Department of Consumer Affairs website.

No date has been set for a hearing into the charges, but it can take up to a year under normal circumstances. Attorneys for Blea have a few options left, including asking for a temporary restraining order, but nothing has been filed.

Blea said he had no comment at this time.

Blea has been accused of several minor violations, some little more than sloppy bookkeeping. They allegedly occurred while Blea was in private practice before becoming EMD on July 1 last year. At the heart of the alleged violations is the difference between equine veterinarians who routinely see the same and often multiple patients every day because horses are considered herd animals. Its a different way of practicing than veterinarians who are in a building treating dogs, cats and other animals considered pets.

In the emergency hearing in December, the CVMB was concerned that Blea was overseeing the investigation into the death of Medina Spirit, the conditional Kentucky Derby winner who tested positive for a legal medication, but one that is not legal on race day. Medina Spirit died Dec. 6 after a workout of what was initially classified as sudden death, which is often associated with a heart attack. As is the case in every horse death in a CHRB-regulated facility, a necropsy and investigation is being performed. The results are expected soon.

Story continues

In the past, similar infractions have led to either a warning or fine. Previously, a spokesperson for the CVMB provided little clarity on the situation and Jessica Sieferman, executive officer of the CVMB, declined to talk to The Times.

In order to alleviate the CVMBs concerns, the Medina Spirit investigation was handed over to Dr. John Pascoe, interim head of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Blea technically works for UC Davis and is assigned to the CHRB. It was originally thought that Blea could continue as equine medical director and that a veterinary license was not necessary, but a ruling from the deputy attorney generals office disputed that belief and UC Davis put Blea on administrative leave.

The UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine is aware the interim order of suspension of Dr. Jeff Bleas veterinary license has been upheld and is monitoring the situation as the legal process moves forward, said Amy Quinton a UC Davis spokesperson. At this time, Dr. Blea remains on administrative leave. The School of Veterinary Medicine continues to fulfill its duties to provide equine medical director services for the CHRB.

The CHRB amended its contract with UC Davis and Dr. Heather Knych and Dr. Ashley Hill were named as acting equine medical directors on a part-time basis. They will perform basic statutory functions of the EMD while Blea is on leave.

The CHRB offered its unanimous support of Blea in a statement after its Jan. 20 meeting.

Dr. Blea has  full support and confidence to continue in his role as EMD throughout the full adjudication process, the statement said. The commissioners are further committed to pursue appropriate legal avenues to protect the authority of the board, as well as preserve the contract with UC Davis, which appointed Dr. Blea as the Equine Medical Director for the CHRB.

Scott Chaney, executive director of the CHRB, when contacted, referred to the statement.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Jaipur, Feb 3 : Australian High Commissioner to India, Barry O'Farrell AO is in Rajasthan to discuss the ambitious plans of investment in the desert state in diverse fields like skill development, water management, renewable energy, agriculture and mining.

He made an official call on Rajasthan's newly appointed Chief Secretary Usha Sharma to discuss the plan to invest in the desert state in skill development, water management, renewable energy, agriculture and mining.

Farrell said that the Australia-India relationship is getting closer and is meant to go a long way.

"Australia is aiming to make a healthy investment in India for which skill development, water management, renewable energy, agriculture and mining can be the focus areas. Rajasthan has a huge potential for development of Solar power in particular and the Australian government would be more than willing to stitch a partnership in developing and sharing technology for enhancing the Solar energy in the state," he said.

The Australian High Commissioner to India was all praise for the federal structure of India and said that the present time when Covid has receded is a great opportunity for the two countries to work together.

He further suggested an exchange programme for the officers of the two countries under which the administrative officers from one country would visit the other to understand and learn the administrative working of each other.

Sharma welcomed all the suggestions made by the High Commissioner and said that Rajasthan as well is looking forward to a long term sustained relationship with Australia.

Also present in the meeting were Ravi Kant, Principal Secretary, Investments and Naveen Jain, Principal Secretary, Planning, while the High Commissioner was accompanied by Jade Taylor, Second Secretary and Vandana Seth, Senior Research Officer.

Congratulating Usha Sharma on assuming the charge of Rajasthan's top administrative officer, the High Commissioner gave his best wishes to her for her future tenure.

A day earlier, the Australian High Commissioner also made a visit to BJP State president Satish Poonia and discussed plans of investment in Rajasthan.

The High Commissioner of Australia and the BJP State President held a detailed discussion about the immense potential in the fields of tourism, mining, education, medicine, sports, etc. and moving forward with each other's cooperation.

Accepting the invitation of the Australian High Commissioner to come to Australia, the BJP state president promised him that in the coming days, he would meet soon and conduct a dialogue programme with overseas Indians and overseas Rajasthanis in Australia, so that development and other areas could be developed with mutual cooperation.
Ben Fordham has slammed 'dole bludgers' who jumped on Centrelink welfare at the start of the pandemic and have sat tight on government payments instead of returning to work, as businesses across Australia struggle to find staff.

'There are some Aussies who just dont want to work,' Fordham fumed.

Ben Fordham had slammed 'dole bludgers' who jumped on welfare during the pandemic and have sat tight on government payments instead of returning to work

The Federal government is about to open the borders for an additional 160,000 migrants to fill jobs that employers say they cannot fill - such as in agriculture

'There are 200,000 Aussies who joined the welfare program at the start of the pandemic who remain on jobseeker this morning,' he said on Thursday morning.

This is while the federal government is about to open the borders for an additional 160,000 migrants to fill jobs that employers say they cannot fill, such as picking fruit and vegetables in regional areas.

Brett, from GCG Turbochargers at Condell Park, Sydney, told Fordham about a new employee who pulled out of a role just hours before he was due to arrive for his first shift.

Brett said the man phoned him a day before his first shift to say "I'm just going to stay at home, my wifes due to have a baby in a couple of months and Im going to be a family man and look after my family."

'All kudos to him but at the end of the day, youve got to work, you've got to put food on the table and you cant keep sucking off the teat of the government.

'Youve got to get out there and have a go.'

2GB caller Brett, from GCG Turbochargers at Condell Park, told Fordham about a new employee who pulled out of a role he'd accepted hours before his first shift. (Pictured, a car in GCG Turbochargers yard)

Federal employment minister Stuart Robert encouraged Brett, and listeners, to report anyone who is receiving welfare payments and refusing reasonable offers of work

Brett said interest in similar roles with GCG Turbos in 2018 was far higher.

'I looked back at the same Seek ads in 2018 for the same position, and I had over 400 applicants and filled the job in two days. Now I can't even get four applicants.'

Federal employment minister Stuart Robert encouraged Aussies to report anyone who is receiving welfare payments and refusing to accept reasonable offers of work.

Mr Robert said people who refuse jobs offered to them are not just taking money from the Commonwealth.

'It's from the lady across the street who works hard,' he explained. 'It's your next-door neighbour who goes out to work every day, it's their taxes that fund our welfare system.'

Mr Robert pointed out the barriers to getting a job are lower than ever.

'Theres generally no impediment in terms of getting a job, a lot of employers are not looking for skills, theyre just looking for someone with a good attitude wholl work hard.'

Fordham urged Australians to rat on 'dole bludgers' refusing to work by calling the Employer Reporting Line.

'[The number is] 1300 361 241,' Fordham said. 'This is for if you know about people who refuse to get off their backside.'
San Francisco, Feb 3 : Apple is likely to launch the next version of its AirPods Pro in the second half of this year and now a new report has claimed that the upcoming AirPods would come packed with motion sensors for the fitness tracking capabilities.

The second-generation AirPods Pro will have a revamped design and it is also expected to be powered by an upgraded chip that brings advanced audio-related functions like active noise cancellation and more improvements, resulting in improved battery life, reports GizmoChina.

Apple's suppliers are getting ready for shipments of the new high-end AirPods.

The second-generation AirPods Pro may support lossless audio support and a charging case that makes a sound to help you find it.

The upcoming wearable may support Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC) and can also have integrated AirTag features in the charging case and support for Apple Lossless.

In the latest investors' note, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said he also expects more integration of health features in the AirPods Pro 2.

In a previous memo, he had said that the model would feature updated motion trackers for greater fitness applications.
A woman is facing attempted murder charges after two children were allegedly stabbed and taken to hospital in north Queensland.

The 39-year-old and the children were taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries following a disturbance at a Tablelands property on January 25.

Emergency services were called to the property shortly after 3.30pm.

Police will allege two children, whose ages have not been revealed, sustained stab wounds during a disturbance at a home in Mareeba.

On January 31, police charged the woman with two counts of attempted murder.

A woman is facing attempted murder charges after two children were allegedly stabbed in north Queensland following an incident on January 25 (stock image)

The woman, 39, was arrested on January 31 and appeared in the Cairns Magistrates Court (pictured) on February 2 where she was then remanded to reappear on April 13

Police confirmed the woman was known to both children, whose ages were not disclosed (stock image)

She appeared in Cairns Magistrates Court on February 2 before she was remanded in custody to reappear on April 13.

Police confirmed the woman was known to both children.

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.

Lifeline 13 11 14

beyondblue 1300 22 4636
"Numerous" Green Bay and Fox Valley banks were among those victimized by Atlanta-based scammers who stole checks from local mailboxes, the U.S. Justice Department announced Wednesday.

Two Atlanta residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury on three counts apiece of financial-institution fraud, each of which carries a penalty of up to 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine.

RELATED: De Pere couple among 4 northeastern Wisconsin residents indicted on federal wire fraud charges in Summit Contracting case

RELATED: Suring man fined $2,000 for using food stamps to buy soda for his convenience store

The DOJ alleges that Michael W. Harvey Jr., 41, and Shanika V. Harvey, 31, stole checks from mailboxes of Wisconsin businesses, altered them and recruited people for small amounts of money. The Harveys are alleged to have pocketed at least $160,000 from the scam.

Brown County sheriff's deputies investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Humble is prosecuting.

Contact Doug Schneider at (920) 431-8333, or DSchneid@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @PGDougSchneider

Our subscribers make this coverage possible. Subscribe to a USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin site today with one of our special offers support local journalism.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Green Bay, Fox Valley banks were targeted by thieves who stole checks
Vienna, Feb 3 : The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, a group known as OPEC+, announced that it would stick to existing plans for a moderate oil output increase of 400,000 barrels per day in March despite surging crude prices.

OPEC+ reconfirmed "the decision to adjust upward the monthly overall production by 400,000 barrels per day for the month of March 2022", according to a statement released on Wednesday after the 25th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting.

In recent weeks oil prices have been hovering near multi-year highs driven by geopolitical tensions in eastern Europe and the Middle East, reports Xinhua news agency.

The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Brent crude were both trading above $88 a barrel before Wednesday's OPEC+ meeting, and last week saw both benchmarks hit their highest levels since October 2014.

In July 2021, the OPEC+ countries agreed to raise oil output by 400,000 barrels per day each month to gradually offset the production cuts made at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

The oil cartel has since been sticking to the plan despite calls from top consumers, including the US, to further boost supplies to rein in soaring oil prices as demand recovers from the pandemic-induced slump.

Some OPEC+ countries have reportedly been struggling to meet the planned production quotas due to years of underinvestment.

A recent Bloomberg survey showed that OPEC added only 90,000 barrels of output per day in December 2021.

The 26th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting will convene on March 2.
Varanasi, Feb 3 : An Uttar Pradesh Police sub-inspector has been suspended after a woman, pursuing a lab technician course, accused him of raping her for nine months on the pretext of marriage.

Varanasi commissioner of police, A. Satish Ganesh, ordered the suspension of Saramohana outpost in-charge, Vinay Tiwari, and ordered a probe into the allegations levelled on him by the woman for raping her for nine months.

In her complaint, the woman, belonging to Chandauli district and pursuing course of lab technician in Varanasi, said that the sub-inspector had met her nine months ago. After a few meetings, he informed the complainant that his divorce case was in the final stage in the court after which he would marry her.

The woman alleged that he also made physical relations with her.

When she tried to pressurise him for marriage, he started threatening her of lodging fake cases against her and her family members.

Scared of threats, the woman initially made a complaint to the Commissionerate police through registered post and later appeared before them on Monday. The Commissioner said that taking note of the woman's complaint, the SI was suspended and a probe has been ordered.

Meanwhile, the additional police commissioner Subhash Chandra Dubey has ordered the additional DCP to probe into the role of the Lanka police for not lodging an FIR against a pharmacist in a similar case.

Instead of lodging an FIR against the pharmacist for sexually exploiting a woman by promising to marry her, the Lanka police started pressurising the woman for compromise.

Dubey said that the woman met him several days ago and taking note of her complaint, he had ordered the Lanka police to lodge an FIR and initiate appropriate action against the pharmacist.
Washington, Feb 3 (IANS) The US will deploy additional troops to Europe, the Defense Department has announced, citing tensions on Ukraine's borders.



The deployment includes 1,000 troops currently based in Germany to be repositioned to Romania and another 2,000 troops to be sent from the US to Germany and Poland, John Kirby, the Defense Department's spokesman, was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency.



"These are not permanent moves. They are moves designed to respond to the current security environment. Moreover, these forces are not going to fight in Ukraine," Kirby said during a press conference at the Pentagon.



"These movements are unmistakable signals to the world that we stand ready to reassure our (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) allies and deter and defend against any aggression," he added.



The US has already put some 8,500 troops on "heightened alert," in preparation for what it claimed to be an "imminent" Russian invasion of Ukraine. The measure will enable the troops to be deployed on short notice if NATO decides to activate its rapid response force known as the NRF.



Kirby said the troops being deployed are separate from those put on high alert. They will operate on a bilateral basis with their host countries, and will be under US command -- not NATO command - since the alliance has yet to activate the NRF.



Repeatedly declining to say whether the deployment was in response to fears that Russia could attack a NATO country, the spokesman said the US troops could be augmented by additional deployments in the coming days or months, noting that other NATO countries - including the UK, France and Denmark - have also moved to shore up the alliance's eastern flank.



President Joe Biden said that on Friday he "will be moving US troops to Eastern Europe and the NATO countries in the near term." The president has maintained that no US forces will be sent directly to Ukraine, which is not a NATO member.
ISLAMABAD, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Four terrorists and one soldier were killed when Pakistani security forces repulsed attacks on two camps of paramilitary troops Frontier Corps (FC) in two districts of the country's southwestern Balochistan province Wednesday night, an army statement said.

The attacks happened in Panjgur district located near the Pakistan-Iran border, and in Noshki district located southwest of the provincial capital of Quetta.

Both attacks have been repulsed while inflicting casualties to terrorists, the military's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said while sharing the preliminary reports of the incidents in the statement.

"In Panjgur, terrorists tried to enter security forces camp from two locations. However, timely response by troops foiled terrorist attempt," said the statement.

During the exchange of fire, one soldier was killed, while the terrorists fled and their casualties are being ascertained, the ISPR said.

In Noshki, the terrorists attempted to enter FC camp. Four terrorists have been killed, and one officer has been injured during the shootout, the statement added.

Sources from Quetta told Xinhua that military helicopters were also dispatched from the provincial capital to the attack sites for assistance.

The army statement did not mention the identities or affiliation of the attackers, but proscribed organization Baloch Liberation Army claimed the attacks in a statement widely circulating on social media. 
Dubai-based international airline Emirates will restart flights from Dubai to Nigeria from February 5, 2022.



The airline will operate to and from Abuja and Lagos with daily flights, providing more choice, comfort and enhanced connectivity for travellers connecting to Dubai and over 120 destinations, reported state news agency Wam.








Los Angeles, Feb 3 : With speculation rife over whether spectacular box-office success of 'Spider-Man: No Way Home' will be duplicated in the nominations for the Oscars, Tom Holland was careful while answering a question from 'Variety' on the subject on the sidelines of a promotion for his upcoming action adventure film 'Uncharted'.

"It would be a huge honour for it to be nominated for an Oscar," Holland said.

The nominations are slated to be announced on February 8.

He added: "But I think I can speak on behalf of everyone at Marvel and Sony and particularly [director] Jon Watts, the fan reaction that we've received -- the love and support -- is enough." "We have created something that has been such a culturally enriching experience for so many people, that watching those fan reactions to when Andrew [Garfield] comes through and Tobey [Maguire] comes through and Andrew saves Zendaya, I will never be able to live that down," Holland continued in his conversation with 'Variety'.

Speaking of Garfield and Maguire, Holland praised the production team for getting the trio together on the big screen. "It was one of those things -- it was an idea for a long time and an idea that always seemed impossible," he said.

He also did not rule out another Spidey reunion. He said: "Could it happen? Of course it could happen. We've done it once before. Will it happen? I don't know."
New Zealand Rugby has made the decision to relocate the six New Zealand-based Super Rugby Pacific squads to Queenstown to mitigate against the risk of Covid-19 side-lining any of the teams.

NZR General Manager Professional Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum says the move will provide the best chance of the inaugural season of Super Rugby Pacific kicking off as scheduled on Friday, February 18.

Under current Covid-19 regulations it would only take one positive case entering a squad environment to shut down an entire squad for 10 days. The knock-on effect for the rest of the competition would be the postponement or cancellation of matches, says Lendrum.

By moving the teams to a secure hub, we believe we have a good chance of preventing a Covid-19 infection, or close contact event, side-lining one of our teams for a prolonged period. The plan is currently for the teams to move to Queenstown early next week and remain in Queenstown for the opening three weeks of the competition.

Chiefs Rugby Club CEO Michael Collins says the move to Queenstown is seen as a temporary measure with plans in place for teams to return to their home bases and regular venues in March.

We have been working alongside New Zealand Rugby and the other New Zealand based clubs to formulate a plan to mitigate the risk of Omicron and maintain the integrity of the Super Rugby Pacific competition. While we are pleased we have been able to commit to a solution, we recognise and are grateful for the sacrifice our Gallagher Chiefs players, team management and their whanau have made in order for the Super Rugby Pacific competition to continue on schedule.

We know this decision directly impacts our sponsors, members and fans. However the agreed setup will continue to allow our loyal supporters to watch us compete in Super Rugby Pacific. We are disappointed the Gallagher Chiefs are unable to play at FMG Stadium Waikato this month in front of our passionate home crowd. However we want to reiterate we are working tirelessly to see how our whanau, sponsors and members are able to be involved when the Gallagher Chiefs return in round five.

The Gallagher Chiefs will join the Blues, Hurricanes, Moana Pasifika, and fly to Queenstown on charter flights, while the Crusaders and Highlanders will bus south over the coming weekend.

The squads will operate in separate bubbles with exclusive use of training facilities in the Queenstown area.

Day matches will be played in Queenstown at the Wakatipu Rugby Club whereas teams will bus to and from Rugby Park in Invercargill for any night matches.

Matches are scheduled to be played according to the revised Super Rugby Pacific draw announced last December with all matches broadcast live and exclusive on Sky.

All matches will be played without crowds at the red level of the traffic light settings.

Teams will stay in local hotels and will utilise Covid-19 protocols successfully implemented by the All Blacks during last years Tudor Northern Tour.

While players and staff will be able to undertake some outdoor activities during their stay, they will remain in their team bubbles at all times and will be subject to regular rapid antigen tests.

Lendrum also says NZR is committed to playing Super Rugby Aupiki and is weighing the options on how to manage the tournament and four Super Rugby Aupiki squads, and will announce those details in due course.
Kinshasa, DRC (PANA) - At least 50 people, including women and children, were killed in an attack on Tuesday night at a site for internally displaced people in Savo, Ituri Province, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UN said on Wednesday
Rampur, Feb 3 : This is one battle, rather two battles, that have every eye fixed on it. The hostility between the rivals is legendary and parties do not matter much in this war.

Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Mohammad Azam Khan is contesting his Rampur seat, more to regain his reputation and honour by winning the seat.

He has been in jail since February 2020 and is facing nearly 100 criminal cases piled on him, ranging from buffalo and goat heft to land grabbing and power theft.

Once a powerful state minister in the SP regime, the incumbent Yogi Adityanath government has made a concerted effort to demolish his clout and influence in his constituency.

Challenging Azam Khan is his old rival Kazim Ali Khan, also known as Naved Miyan. Kazim Ali Khan, who belongs to the royal family of Rampur, is contesting on a Congress ticket.

Azam Khan has won the Rampur Assembly seat nine times since 1980, pitching himself as a common man pitted against the royalty.

This time, Azam Khan, who is still in jail, plans to use the sympathy factor to win the polls.

An aide of the SP MP says: "People are aware how this government has victimized the entire family, destroyed the Jauhar University which was built to educate Muslims. The sympathy factor now overrides all other considerations and we hope to register a major win for Azam Khan even if he remains behind the bars." Mohd Ishhaq, a local journalist, explains that though people were initially upset with Azam Khan and his autocratic behaviour, the manner in which he has been targeted in the past two years, has turned it into sympathy.

"When it becomes an overkill, the situation changes," he said.

Kazim Ali Khan, who has been hopping between Congress and BSP, is confident of defeating his old rival.

"Azam Khan stands exposed and people know how he has behaved.," he says.

Also in the fray is Akash Saxena of the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). He is known as an anti-graft crusader in Rampur and most of the cases against Azam Khan have been filed by him.

However, the focus of the battle is restricted between Azam Khan and Kazim Ali Khan.

In the neighbouring Suar Assembly constituency, Azam Khan's son, Abdullah Azam, is facing a tough contest from Haider Ali Khan, who is Kazim Ali Khan's son. Abdullah had defeated Kazim from Suar in the 2017 Assembly election.

However, he was disqualified from the membership of the state Assembly following a dispute in his age-related documents.

Haider Ali Khan has been fielded on a Apna Dal ticket and this could prove to be a major drawback since the party's symbol is not so well known in the region.

Haider had been named as candidate by Congress but for some reason, he crossed over to BJP and is contesting on Apna Dal ticket.

As the battle lines between the fathers and sons sharpen, the remaining candidates in both constituencies take a back seat.
Youd have to be living under a rock not to realize that there are primary elections in the near future. Candidates have poured tens of millions of dollars into advertising and, as is usually the case, Alabamians are quietly counting the days until May 24 while getting more proficient with the mute button on their television remotes.

With the intense interest so many have had in national politics in recent years, one would think that races closer to home would attact more robust attention  and greater ambition among office-seekers.

However, Alabama voters in far too many legislative districts wont have much choice. The throw-the-rascals-out crowd that vows to vote against incumbents with the hope of new blood is, in most cases, simply out of luck. Theyre destined for more of the same.

Alabama has 105 members of its House of Representatives and 35 state senators, and every seat is up for election this year. A report from al.com shows that in 64 of the 140 seats, incumbents are running with no opposition.

Republicans hold the majority in both chambers. In the House of Representatives, where two positions are vacant, of the 75 Republican House members, 59 seek re-election. Of those, 41 have no opposition in the GOP primary, and 33 will have no opposition in the November General Election. Democrats hold 28 seats, and 26 incumbents seek re-election. Eighteen have no primary opposition; 16 will be unopposed in November.

In the 35-member Senate, 24 of the 27 GOP incumbents are running. Only 9 of those face primary opponents; 13 will have no opposition in November. Six of the 8 Senate Democrats seek re-election; only one has primary opposition; four have no opposition in November.

Chronic low voter turnout is an accurate barometer of voter apathy.

Wed argue that an election in which 64 of 104 legislative races are uncontested either underscores that stunning lack of interest or suggests that Alabama voters are content with the lackluster performance of the state legislature.
Agra, Feb 3 : In yet another case of alleged custodial death, a 36-year-old auto driver was reportedly beaten to death by police in Agra.

Superintendent of Police Vikas Kumar said: "A police team was on routine patrolling in the Sanjay place market, when it found a few men gambling. One of them, Bhagwan Das Rathore, fell unconscious while trying to flee. He was sent to a hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. The autopsy report has not ascertained the cause of death." Doctors have preserved the viscera samples for further examination.

Kumar said the allegation of death due to beating is baseless.

His family, however, said his body bore injury marks which means he was thrashed.

"We were also beaten up when we tried to bring the body home. Police forcefully cremated my husband on Wednesday. He was murdered. We want justice," said his wife, Anita.

In October 2021, Arun Valmiki, a Dalit, had died in police custody after he was detained on allegations of theft in the police strong room.

The police had claimed that he died of heart attack but the incident led to national outrage and is cited as an example of Dalit atrocities in the ongoing election season.
(TBTCO) - Cac hop ong tuong lai ong cua ong loat trong sac xanh tren thi truong chung khoan phai sinh ngay 22/9. Muc tang cua cac hop ong la khong lon nhung cung nhinh hon han so voi chi so co so va cho thay luc hoi phuc rat lon trong phien ao chieu tang.
Ukrainian servicemen attend a rehearsal of an official ceremony to hand over tanks, armored personnel carriers, and military vehicles to the Ukrainian Armed Forces as the country celebrates Army Day in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Dec. 6, 2021. (Gleb Garanich/Reuters)

Beijing Cant Wait for Escalation of Ukraine Crisis

Commentary

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has strategically positioned itself to take advantages from the current tensions between NATO and Russia over Ukraine. Any coming sanctions the West may impose on Russia will likely push Putin further into Chinas global expansion plan.

As the Western World is still in the process of realizing its own failures in pushing the CCP for political reform over the past 20 years, Chinas political leaders have been planning the CCPs global expansion strategy to secure its next 30 years of comprehensive military and economic growth.

In 2020, Russias GDP was only around one tenth of Chinas GDP. Chinas top two provinces ranked by size of economy, Guangdong and Jiangsu, both have a higher GDP than Russias national figure.

Russia may play a big role in Xi Jinpings future plans, although Putin so far has not made up his mind if he wants to follow Chinas plan. The current conflicts in Ukraine may just leave Russia with no other choice but to take a secondary position to follow Beijings vision.

What Beijing Wants From Russia

China cant wait to see the West impose economic sanctions against Russia, which will only make Russias economy more reliant on China. China wants Russia and other central Asian countries to be part of its strategic rear when the CCP further expands into the Pacific-Rim.

China already feels secure with many neighbors to its west, through its having built strong ties with many in Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. China needs Russia to have its back from the north so Beijing can focus on the other directions to compete with U.S. interests.

Laborers walk through the Gwadar Port in Pakistan, a multi-billion dollar infrastructure project that China has invested in as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. (Amelie Herenstein/AFP/Getty Images)

China has been in communication with Iran and Pakistan for years to build an energy corridor connecting Iran and China through Pakistan. China signed an agreement with Iran in March last year. According to the agreement, China will provide $400 billion in economic aid to Iran over the following 25 years, while Iran will provide a constant oil supply to China in return.

The original design of the energy corridor was to connect Iran and China through Pakistan. Now, after U.S. troops left Afghanistan to the Taliban, China can build oil pipelines through either Afghanistan or Pakistan. China has been building highways and railroads in Tibet over the last two decades, and is ready at the receiving end of the corridor for Irans oil. Beijing hopes the energy corridor, once built, will become a strong base to support the anti-U.S. alliance among these four countries.

However, without the support from Russia, China still doesnt feel safe from the north. Although China has already been purchasing oil from Russia through pipelines, Chinese leader Xi Jinping wants Putin as an ally, not just a trading partner.

The CCP wants to ensure it has no worries from the north as the regime challenges the United States and its allies to the east, supporting the North Korean regime to increase its threats to South Korea and Japan; to the southeast as it continues waging its tug of war with the West for deeper economic ties with Southeast Asian countries over the South China Sea and Taiwan; and to the southwest, to keep pressure on India, one of the most important allies of the free world in Asia.

CCPs Plan

Beijing is pursuing its China 2049 Initiativean aggressive plan to secure Chinas global dominance by the year 2049, the 100th anniversary of the founding of communist China.

The CCP has been quietly and steadily working on building a global system under its own leadership, which may have some similarity to the Warsaw Pact under the former Soviet Union, but yet is very different in nature.

The Warsaw Pact, dominated by the Soviet Union, was a military alliance based on the communist ideology. The global alliance that Beijing has tried to build is a system that will be dominated by the CCP through the controls of economy and modern technology.

Beijing has helped Kim Jong-un secure the entire internet information system in North Korea. Chinas technologies are famous for their built-in backdoors. Countries that have their information and data infrastructures built by Chinese companies will no longer be able to keep any secrets from China. This backdoor access is a weapon that the CCP can use to watch its allies in a much more effective and efficient way than did the Soviet Union using the KGB.

Of course, China wont secure global leadership by only providing technologies to its allies. Economic infiltration is the bedrock of Beijings plans to dominate a new global alliance centered around China.

Xis Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been Chinas national priority project since 2013, which started only months after he took the highest office of the CCP.

Under the BRI, China sends its own companies, workers, equipment, and materials to build roads, bridges, airports, and other infrastructures for developing countries all from China. Countries joining the initiative will be left with huge debts owed to China as its local economy suffers.

The initiative was originally designed to solve Chinas problems with overcapacity in its construction industry. But gradually, it became the centerpiece of the CCPs plans for global expansion.

Currently, BRI projects are found in all Central Asian countries, which Russia considers its backyard.

China has also tried to extend its initiative into Southeast Asia, as the ASEAN (The Association of Southeast Asian Nations) has long been Chinas largest trading partner, toping trade with both the EU and the United States.

Beijing Wants to See Ukraine Crisis Escalate

Under Xis leadership, China has quickly turned towards the practice of communist fundamentalism. Beijings leaders knew that without political reform, they would not be able to continue relying on the technologies, investments, and consumer markets from the West in the same way that they have over the last 20 years, after Chinas first joining the WTO in 2001.

The Chinese regime, therefore, has taken a different approach for its 2049 goal. Instead of relying on assistance from the West for its future economic growth, Beijing wants to win its global leadership through stifling competition with the free world.

In this approach, Russia becomes a crucial factor for a winning strategy.

China knows its own history. Beijings leaders dont want Russia playing a role similar to China did during the Cold War: becoming an ally of the liberal democratic West.

Xi wants Putin to become the second man in the CCPs global alliance. Many state media in China have been openly discussing making Russia an ally. Xi has initiated talks with Putin to discuss how both countries can start a separate international monetary exchange system outside of SWIFT, the current global interbank financial system that uses only U.S. dollars.

The only problem with Beijings aggressive strategy is that Russia is also a country with a long history and a proud, rich culture. Putin is not necessarily interested in listening to Xi.

Therefore, when the Ukraine crisis started to unfold, the CCPs leaders saw it as the perfect opportunity to bring its slow, polar bear neighbor on board with its plans.

On Jan. 23, China sent 39 warplanes into Taiwans air defense identification zone. On Jan. 30, North Korea conducted another missile test, which was the seventh missile test in the month of January.

All these provocative activities were within the month before the Beijing Winter Olympic Games. This was a period supposedly for Chinas propaganda machine to tout the CCPs successful leadership and Beijings contributions to help the whole world build the common destination.

Why did Beijings Xi and North Koreas Kim choose this month to ramp up its aggressive posturing?

Xi and Kim were clearly trying to send a message to Putin: do whatever he needs to do in Ukraine. China and North Korea are the strategic rear for Russia facing NATO, and in return, Xi and Kim want Putin to have their back when they face the United States in the Pacific region.

Therefore, Xi Jinping cant wait for Putin to give his invasion command to the Russian military.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
China Development Bank steps up support for manufacturing upgrade

Xinhua) 11:53, February 03, 2022

Robotic arms assemble engines at a workshop of the Weichai Power Co., Ltd. in Weifang City, east China's Shandong province, April 22, 2021. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

BEIJING, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The China Development Bank boosted its loan support for manufacturing companies in 2021 to foster new growth drivers for the sector.

Last year, the bank provided 491.7 billion yuan (about 77.13 billion U.S. dollars) in loans to advanced manufacturing and emerging industries.

The bank issued 67.5 billion yuan in loans to support new infrastructure construction and the deep integration of big data and artificial intelligence technologies with various industries.

By the end of last year, outstanding loans in the manufacturing sector amounted to 958.8 billion yuan, with 85 percent of these loans being medium and long-term loans, according to the bank.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji)
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(Natural News) For the past two years, Yale University has required all students to wear a face mask on campus at all times, which apparently includes at night on a weekend when nobody else is around.

One student learned this the hard way recently after he was caught maskless inside a deserted library at 9:30 p.m. on a Saturday night. There were no other humans in sight so the student decided to relax as nature intended and watch a movie in peace.

It turns out that someone else caught him in the act and reported him to the schools COVID hotline  and no, this is not a joke: Yale does, in fact, have a COVID hotline for snitching on non-compliers.

According to the student, who is a senior, a female student walked into the library and demanded that he put on a mask. Since he did not have one on him, the senior said he would simply leave the library.

This was not enough for the female, though, who began aggressively filming him while he gathered his belongings. When the senior asked for her name, she threw up a middle finger  classy  and stormed off in rage.

Two days later the student received a notice from the schools administration that he had been reported for violating the schools Community Compact, which is a set of rules the school put in place to promote the health and safety of all community members.

The student was then given 24 hours to provide the Compact Review Committee with any relevant information that he would like to have considered as part of his official evaluation for conduct.

Amazingly (or perhaps not, seeing as how this is Yale), the student was found guilty of a violation and threatened with a public health withdrawal.

The [committee] has determined that your conduct posed a risk to the health and safety of yourself or other community members, the university wrote to the student two weeks after that.

Should you continue to engage in behavior that violates the Yale Community Compact, you will be placed on Public Health Warning and may face more serious outcomes, including the removal of permission to be on campus.

Yale held maskless gala attended by 1,000 people on same night student was caught at the library

University documents reviewed by the Washington Free Beacon show that the incident took place on Dec. 4, 2021, the same night that 1,000 maskless students gathered for Yales annual holiday dinner.

A ritzy Yale tradition that had been canceled in 2020, the dinner featured lobster-laden ice sculptures and a parade of mostly masked dining hall workers, who marched the decadent culinary spread through a packed crowd of students, according to a video posted of the evenings festivities, reported the Beacon.

The episode offers a window into the intrusive and often inconsistent enforcement of Yales COVID rules, which, as one student put it, made campus feel like a surveillance state.'

Interestingly, these egregious rules (more like double standards) were put in place long before the existence of Donald Trumps Operation Warp Speed vaccines, though they have continued to nonsensically persist with no end in sight.

Back when the so-called delta wave hit, the university actually upped the ante by banning all close contact greetings at club sporting events, including handshakes, hugs, and high-fives.

A growing number of students at Yale are becoming upset that the rules are oppressive and no longer make sense  unless tyranny is the goal, of course. And it turns out that many other schools across the country are doing the exact same thing.

More of the latest news about Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) tyranny can be found at Fascism.news.

Sources for this article include:

FreeBeacon.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Canadas Freedom Convoy vowed to stay in the capital city of Ottawa until the government lifts its vaccine mandate for truckers.

The convoy set out from the province of British Columbia on Jan. 23. It headed eastward and arrived in Ottawa six days later on Jan. 29. A report said the organizers initially estimated 1,600 trucks to participate. This later grew to 36,000 and eventually hit close to 50,000 trucks.

Meanwhile, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) said it reported zero arrests at the Freedom Convoys gathering on Parliament Hill on the weekend of Jan. 29 and 30.

A statement by the OPS released in the morning of Jan. 30 said: large crowds remained in the downtown core throughout the night and were actively managed by police. Officers encountered several challenges with demonstrators, including specific road blockages by trucks, which officers worked to clear. These high-risk situations were de-escalated and resolved with no arrests.

A later OPS statement released on the evening of Jan. 30 mentioned police officers dealing with disruptive, inappropriate and threatening behavior from demonstrators. Despite this, the later statement made no mention of arrests. Throughout the weekend, the OPS and its partners have been actively and patiently managing a well-funded, major demonstration in the downtown core, the Jan. 30 statement said. (Related: 50,000 truckers storm Ottawa to demand end to covid vaccine mandates.)

According to a Jan. 31 CTV News report, OPS Chief Peter Sloly claimed all options are on the table to bring the Freedom Convoy to an end and that law enforcement is negotiating with protest organizers. All options are on the table, from negotiation through to enforcement, he said.

Sloly also lauded the OPS members for their response to the protests at the capital. No riots, no injuries, no deaths. None of that has occurred over the last four days. That is a measure of success for any jurisdiction in Canada, and quite frankly anywhere in the world.

Trudeau, MSM refuse to acknowledge protesters

The Freedom Convoy protests have caused traffic gridlocks and road closures in the Canadian capital. It also caused headaches for business owners and residents in the citys downtown district.

Despite this, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has remained adamant with his stance. He said on Jan. 31 that he would not meet with the Freedom Convoy as he does not believe in its goals.

I have also chosen not to go anywhere near protests that have expressed hateful rhetoric, violence toward fellow citizens and a disrespect not just for science, but the frontline health workers and 90 percent of truckers who have been doing the right thing to keep Canadians safe and put food on our table, said Trudeau.

The prime minister reiterated his stance in a news conference. We are not intimidated by those who hurl abuse at small business workers and steal food from the homeless. We wont cave to those who engage in vandalism. There is no place in our country for threats, violence or hatred.

Some Canadian journalists claimed that the Freedom Convoy is an invasion and suggested that protest participants may try to breach the Parliament Building. Reports from actual participants painted a radically different picture, however.

Trucker Gord Magill, who joined the protests, denounced the mainstream media (MSM) coverage of the protest. He claimed MSM reports zeroed in on a couple of protesters who do not represent what the convoy stands for. The [MSM] is clutching at straws to smear us  which are in short supply, Magill wrote in an op-ed.

Concordia University political science professor Travis Smith, who also attended the protests, painted an optimistic picture of the gathering. He wrote that people of different backgrounds, languages and political affiliations gathered to donate their time and the fruits of their culinary talents to offer food to the truckers and other Freedom Convoy participants.

Smith added: They delivered additional items donated by people who couldnt make it in person, helped to shuttle people around and offered what other assistance they could.

More related stories:

Canadas shortage of drivers worsens as federal vaccination mandates continue.

Lockdown Canadian PM Justin Trudeau relocated out of capital for his safety as thousands of truckers protest COVID vaccine mandate.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau calls citizens, truckers protesting vaccine mandate fringe minority who dont share government-accepted views.

Watch the video below of Tucker Carlson talking about the Freedom Convoy.

This video is from the Son of the Republic channel on Brighteon.com.

Resist.news has more on the Freedom Convoys fight against COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Sources include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

TNC.news

Ottawa.CTVNews.ca

Reuters.com

Brownstone.org

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) The Austrian Constitutional Court (VfGH) has challenged the countrys federal government to prove that the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions are not based on lies. If they are based on falsehoods, the VfGH urged an immediate repeal of all COVID-19 restrictions.

The tribunals challenge came in the form of a list of questions sent to Health Minister Wolfgang Mueckstein on Jan. 26. The VfGHs questions aimed to shed light on how the COVID-19 restrictions help alleviate an alleged burden on the health system. Mueckstein was given until Feb. 18 to answer the 10 questions.

One of the questions posed by the high court centered on the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths, which it claims are highly inflated. It also challenged the government to provide a breakdown of these numbers by age. Was COVID the cause of the hospitalizations? Had they unnecessarily hospitalized healthy people due to a positive test [result] exclusively?

Face masks and COVID-19 vaccines were also tackled by the tribunal in their questions to Mueckstein. It asked: By what factor does wearing an FFP2 mask indoors or outdoors reduce the risk of infection or transmission? The VfGHs query came amid Vienna mandating the masks for outdoor settings if the minimum distance between people cannot be maintained.

The tribunal also touched on how much the COVID-19 shots were able to reduce the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, in line with reports of fully vaccinated people still transmitting the pathogen. What is the risk of transmission in a person infected with SARS-CoV-2 with a second vaccination three, six or eight months ago compared to an unvaccinated person whose PCR test was negative 24 hours ago?

Furthermore, the VfGH asked for a comparison of post-illness and post-vaccination hospitalization risks broken down by age and number of doses injected. The tribunal sought to highlight the side effects of COVID-19 vaccines through this question. It also asked how much were the lockdowns for unvaccinated Austrians able to reduce the risk of them contracting COVID-19. (Related: Austria implements nationwide lockdown, makes COVID vaccination mandatory.)

VfGH questions seek to challenge Viennas draconian restrictions

The constitutional courts questions to Mueckstein come amid the pandemic reaching its second year. The landlocked European nation has made headlines for its extreme measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. Vienna defended the measures as necessary to avoid an excessive burden on the health care system purportedly swamped with COVID-19 patients.

The draconian mandates came unopposed as dissenting voices and questions were simply dismissed as inappropriate and reprehensible objections. Any oppositions to the existing policies or discussions toward a more appropriate response were likewise censored.

Austrias extreme COVID-19 measures specifically targeted unvaccinated citizens in the country. Back in November 2021, Vienna imposed a lockdown on citizens not yet injected with the COVID-19 shot. The Nov. 15 lockdown stipulated that unvaccinated Austrians are only allowed to leave their homes to work or study, shop for essential items and visit their doctors.

Two months later, Mueckstein defended the lockdown on the unvaccinated. He said on Jan. 15 that an early relaxation for the unvaccinated  could quickly lead to an uncontrolled spread of the virus [and] an overload of medical care facilities.

Furthermore, Mueckstein and other Austrian officials threatened to impose exorbitant fines on those continuing to decline the COVID-19 vaccine under a new mandate. Details of the new law were announced in December 2021. Unvaccinated citizens will face fines of up to 3,600 ($4,058)  which would only be dropped if they provide proof of vaccination or a valid exemption.

According to the health minister, peoples respective incomes and financial obligations would be factored in the calculation of the total fines. He added that officials can opt to impose a smaller 600 ($676) fine as an alternative.

More related stories:

Austria has practically made it ILLEGAL for people to exist without getting COVID-19 vaccines.

Austria suffers record number of COVID infections days after locking down the unvaccinated.

Austrian government approves plan to impose heavy fines on unvaccinated citizens.

Watch the video below of a France 24 report about Austrias lockdown for the unvaccinated.

This video is from the WAKE UP channel on Brighteon.com.

MedicalMartialLaw.com has more about Austrias draconian COVID-19 measures.

Sources include:

NewsPunch.com

FreeWestMedia.com

DailyMail.co.uk

Brighteon.com
"This is a global approach applied in every country," an official said

Binance Chief Executive Officer, Changpeng Zhao, has explained that the controversial restriction of accounts on its platform is due to ongoing measures to prevent fraudulent activities.

In a statement addressed to the Nigerian community, published on Sunday, Mr Zhao said 281 Nigerian cryptocurrency accounts were affected by these proactive measures.

"Some 281 Nigerian accounts have been affected by these personal account restrictions with approximately 38% of these cases restricted at the request of international law enforcement," he said.

Mr Zhao emphasised that the Nigerian community is one that brings great pride, adding that since the inception of Binance, Nigeria and Africa at large have been "very special markets to us and for crypto.

The CEO's comment came days after many traders of cryptocurrencies took to Twitter to vent their anger and grievances over the various unusual activities they noticed on their wallets on the Binance platform.

Many users of the platform, especially Nigerians and other Africans, last Wednesday alleged that they had been deprived of access to their wallets (account) without significant reasons.

Binance is a cryptocurrency exchange platform where digital currency holders can transact seamlessly in a peer-to-peer (P2P) pattern.

"On hearing the concerns raised by the community, I decided to write to re-emphasize our commitment to you," Mr Zhao said in his statement Sunday.

While apologising for the inconvenience caused by delays in resolving customer support requests, Mr Zhao stated that "user security remains our top priority."

He said: "We love and are devoted to our Nigerian community, but we must ensure that our users are safe. As such, protection mechanisms such as KYC, anti-money laundering measures, collaboration with law enforcement, and account restrictions are in place to ensure our community remains protected and that fraudulent activity is prevented.

Close Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox Top Headlines Nigeria Currencies By submitting above, you agree to our privacy policy. Success! Almost finished... We need to confirm your email address. To complete the process, please follow the instructions in the email we just sent you. Error! Error! There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later.

"This is a global approach applied in every country."

Ongoing efforts

According to the statement, Mr Zhao said regardless of the bitter experiences, "we owe it to you, our users, to deliver the experience you deserve."

In its bid to rebuild the trust of Nigerians on its brand, Mr Zhao said the company is ensuring speedy resolutions of ongoing user cases tied to account restrictions.

"Currently, we have resolved 79 cases and continue to work through others. All non-law enforcement-related cases will be resolved within two weeks," he said.

He noted that the company is devoting more customer service personnel to the region, and that it will dedicate additional risk agents with a great understanding of the Nigerian market.

"Rest assured, we are working hard to attend to all customer service requests," he explained.
Great Britain extended their winning start in the mixed curling competition at the Beijing Winter Olympics with a 6-4 win over Canada on Thursday.

Jennifer Dodds rested her last shot on top of two Canadian stones in the final end and Rachel Homans failure with an attempted take-out sealed the British win.

It was another encouraging display from Dodds and Bruce Mouat, the defending world champions, who started their campaign with victory over Sweden on Wednesday evening.

Bruce Mouat and Jennifer Dodds were due to return later on Thursday (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Dodds said: I think it was a step up from last nights game. We figured out the ice a bit better and it stayed the same speed through the whole game.

If you said at the start of the week that we were going to be 2-0 having played two great teams in Sweden and Canada, I think anyone in the field would take that.

Dodds and Mouat returned to the ice on Thursday evening and suffered their first defeat, a narrow 8-7 loss to Switzerland in their third round-robin game.
China's space exploration unlocks deeper understanding of universe

Xinhua) 11:51, February 03, 2022

BEIJING, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- China's space exploration has been helping unlock a deeper understanding of the universe, from Earth to the moon; from Mars to the infinite universe.

FROM EARTH TO MOON

With multiple satellites launched, China has largely completed its High-resolution Earth Observation System, providing land observation services. The country can also view waters around the globe on all scales and observe the global atmosphere to boost disaster response capability.

China's success of the Chang'e-5 mission marked the conclusion of a three-step lunar exploration program that consisted of orbiting, landing on the moon, and returning with samples.

The Chang'e-5 mission was China's most complicated systemic space project that required the most diversified technologies. On Dec. 17, 2020, the return capsule of the Chang'e-5 probe brought back the country's first samples from an extraterrestrial body.

Last July, the China National Space Administration released the online database of the second batch of lunar samples brought back by the Chang'e-5 probe. Researchers and the public can access the Lunar and Deep Space Exploration Scientific Data and Sample Release System via the website www.clep.org.cn, where they can apply for data and samples. The first batch of the lunar samples, about 17 grams, was delivered to 13 institutions in the same month.

The analysis of the data sent back by Chang'e-5 lander is also yielding results. A study published last month showed that the moon had turned drier within a certain period, probably due to its mantle reservoir's degassing. The findings provide more clues for future lunar missions as crewed lunar stations are in the pipeline in the following decades.

FROM MARS TO INFINITY

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

The Mars rover Zhurong has traveled more than 1,200 meters on the planet and is currently heading toward a region that might have been the coastline of an ancient ocean, looking for clues about Mars' evolution.

China's first solar exploration satellite, launched into space last October, is sending data on solar flares back to Earth. It can deepen our understanding of the sun.

Shrinivas R. (Shri) Kulkarni, George Ellery Hale Professor of Astronomy and Planetary Science at California Institute of Technology, told Xinhua in an interview last year that the universe is much stranger than people think. However, building astronomy telescopes is very expensive and no country can do astronomy all by itself.

He noted that China's telescopes like FAST and HXMT had become driving engines for discoveries.

Last March, China announced that its Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope, or FAST, could be accessed by astronomers worldwide.

Located in a naturally deep and round karst depression in southwest China's Guizhou Province, FAST started formal operation in January 2020. It is the world's most sensitive radio telescope. With FAST, scientists have identified over 500 new pulsars.

In 2017, China launched a space telescope, the Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope (HXMT), or Insight, to observe black holes, neutron stars, gamma-ray bursts, and other celestial phenomena.

In 2020, scientists, using HXMT, discovered the strongest magnetic field ever observed in the universe, on the surface of a neutron star named GRO J1008-57.

Last year, an international team of researchers reported that a fast radio burst detected by HXMT came from a magnetar in the Milky Way, marking a milestone in understanding the nature of the mysterious signal emanating from the universe.

In 2015, China launched its first dark matter probe satellite Wukong. It has finished the full-sky scan 11 times and collected about 10.7 billion cases of high-energy cosmic rays, obtaining the most accurate measurement results of cosmic-ray electrons, protons, and helium nuclei above the trillion electron volts energy region.

In 2021, China started to build its space station, opening a new foothold for humanity in space. This year, multiple missions have been planned to complete the construction, including launching two lab modules.

China's space station, guided by the idea of building a community with a shared future for humanity, will become a common home transcending Earthly bonds and an outpost for countries worldwide to explore the universe through cooperation.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Bianji)
(Natural News) A study published in the journal Science Advances found that increased mercury levels in the environment may have contributed to the mass extinction more than 200 million years ago. An international team of researchers analyzed mutated fern spores from core samples dating to that period and found a strong link between mercury and the mass extinction event.

By looking at fern spores in sediments from the mass extinction, it was evident that these ferns were negatively affected by the mercury levels, said lead author Sofie Lindstrom of the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland.

Increased mutations in spores

Around 80 percent of the species went extinct 201 million years ago, at the end of the Triassic period. The die-off is believed to be caused by large-scale volcanism in a Large Igneous Province (LIP)  landforms created out of massive volcanic events.

According to the researchers, volcanic activity in LIPs is thought to be responsible for four of the five largest mass extinctions in the last 500 million years. The proposed mechanism contributing to the extinction events is the release of enormous amounts of carbon dioxide. But recent studies suggest that other mechanisms may have been involved.

For instance, co-author Hamed Sanei of Aarhus University in Denmark previously found that mercury levels were abnormally high during the largest mass extinction in Earths history  the end-Permian crisis. Other studies also showed that the mercury concentrations were elevated in Triassic-Jurassic boundary sediments over a very large area, stretching from Argentina to Greenland and from Nevada to Austria.

Lindstrom and her colleagues were curious about whether mercury played a role in the end-Triassic mass extinction. After all, volcanic activity can release phytotoxic pollutants (poisonous to plants) such as mercury and fluoride. The team examined fern spores from core samples dating from the end of the Triassic and searched for mutated spores. Mutations would indicate that these organisms were exposed to mercury, as phytotoxic pollutants can cause visible malformations.

Indeed, the researchers found a link between increased mercury levels and mutations in the spores. During the mass extinction, the mutated spores become increasingly common, and in turn, the mutations get more and more severe, said Lindstrom.

In some counts, the researchers found almost only mutated spores and no normal ones. Moreover, the rise in mutations coincided with a period of increased volcanic activity in a LIP called the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province.

Mercury may have also affected entire food chain

Because mercury is mutagenic, its increased distribution could explain the sudden deterioration of the ecosystem. In turn, the spores could serve as indicators of increased mercury poisoning in other species.

This could hint to that the whole food chain might have been negatively affected, said Lindstrom.

There are also possible explanations for the mutations. In previous studies of malformed pollen during the end-Permian mass extinction, scientists suggested that the mutations were caused by increased UVB radiation from volcanism. While the researchers acknowledged that this is one possible cause of the end-Triassic mutations, they found only low amounts of mutated pollen and said that the end-Permian spores did not appear to exhibit the same types of malformations in the end-Triassic spores. (Related: Dead fish carry toxic mercury to deepest parts of the ocean, study reveals.)

This may indicate different causes for the plant mutations at the two events, said co-author Bas van de Schootbrugge of Utrecht University in the Netherlands.

The researchers concluded that mercury was responsible for the spore mutations and likely affected other plants and the entire food chain too.

Read more studies about the environmental effects of mercury at HeavyMetals.news.

Sources include:

Newswise.com

CosmosMagazine.com

Advances.ScienceMag.com
Thousands of international visitors welcomed in Khanh Hoa

Thousands of foreign tourists are enjoying the Spring atmosphere in the southern coastal province of Khanh Hoa.









Many tourist sites in Khanh Hoa including Ponagar Tower, Aroma House, Ana Marina, Hon Tam Island, and Vinpearl have attracted lots of visitors from Russia, South Korea, Japan.

Visitors watched a dance performance at the Ponagar Tower on February 2.

A tourist burned incense at the Ponagar Tower.





At Khanh Hoa Museum.





At Nha Trang beach.







All visitors were asked to follow regulations for Covid-19 prevention at the tourist sites.







Khanh Hoa welcomed the first international tourists with vaccine passports on November 25, 2021 after a long hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The province aims to receive over 1.2 million visitors this year, doubling that in 2021, including 40,000 foreigners, and revenue of 4 trillion VND (176.6 million USD), up 80 percent over the previous year.
JEFFERSON, S.D. -- A brewery taproom probably doesn't spring immediately to mind when considering fun places to take the whole family.

But once you hear Nicki Werner's philosophy behind Jefferson Beer Supply, it makes perfect sense that a small-town brewery could become a community gathering place, something she hopes might attract other entrepreneurs to this Union County community she's come to love.

"The inspiration behind the brewing is to make the culture we want to be a part of," Werner said. "It's a fun place to live. We want people to have something to do here and not have to drive out of town."

Though she's not brewing beer on site yet, Werner's been thrilled to see how local residents have responded to Jefferson's newest business. The hours have been limited thus far, but Werner and her partner and co-founder, Anthony Roark, spent last summer and fall providing a glimpse of how their business, which also will eventually feature Roark's own artisanal sausages, can impact the community.

Roark is a Jefferson native and returned here three years ago with Werner, a St. Louis native whom he met while the two attended Drake University. Both worked in Sioux Falls -- Roark as a butcher and Werner at a brewery -- and dreamed up the idea of opening a place where they could both pursue their passions of brewing beer and making sausage.

They enlisted Roark's mother, Michaeleen Roark, the town's longtime finance director who also drives a school bus and is a volunteer EMT, as their third co-founder and sought a location. They didn't look far.

"We thought about moving to other cities, but we really wanted to stay here in Jefferson," said Werner, who carries the title director of brewing. "We saw a lack of anything for people to do, especially people with kids and families. We wanted to make a family-oriented space."

Werner observed first-hand how a brewery and community can enrich one another in 2014, when she and Roark were living in Milwaukee. A college art professor at the time, Werner took a maintenance and cleaning job that summer at a small local brewery and became fascinated upon seeing the brewery use its beers to promote local arts and draw attention to them. The favor was returned by local groups promoting the brewery.

"Beer was cool and exciting. It drew people in and had a lot of power to it," Werner said.

She was hooked. She spent one more year teaching, then quit to learn the brewing trade. She's worked eight years at breweries in Wisconsin, Colorado and South Dakota and spent a two-week stint in Germany as part of a program for female brewers.

She's spent much of the past year and a half transforming a building previously used to store cars into a brewery/taproom. Last summer, she and Roark, now a butcher at a Sioux City Fareway grocery store, launched their plan, hosting fun events for the community and taking part in a Halloween event that raised money for new playground equipment at the town's day care center. The Jefferson Beer Supply patio and taproom featured beer from local brewers plus a few of Werner's own, brewed collaboratively at local breweries while she continued to set up her brewing operation.

Jefferson Beer Supply is currently open Thursday through Saturday. Werner hopes to begin brewing on site later this month and have all her beers on tap for a grand opening this spring, expanding business hours to five days a week from the current Thursday-Saturday schedule. Once Werner's brew is flowing, she and Roark can turn their attention to setting up the sausage side of the business.

There won't be a full kitchen, but patrons will be welcome to bring food from Bud's Bar up the street or have it delivered. They'll also host food trucks periodically.

Werner said they hope to have something for everyone: craft sodas for kids and non-drinkers, plus hard cider and seltzers. Expect more holiday events and trivia nights. The taproom is stocked with board games that have been a big hit for families gathered around taproom tables. During the warmer months, there's room on the patio to let kids be kids while the adults enjoy conversation and craft beer.

"I think people are excited to have someplace to come where their kids can be outside," Werner said.

Jefferson's a popular stop for bicyclists and poker runs during the summer, Werner said, giving her plenty of chances not only to show off her beers, but also what Jefferson has to offer. She loves the rural lifestyle, and each of her beer names showcases a South Dakota story, ingredient or flavor.

"Making beer is fun and cool and awesome and it truly is a passion of mine," Werner said.

She hopes Jefferson Beer Supply's beers and sausages feed others' passions, sparking ideas for new businesses to keep the locals in town and attract visitors.

If anyone's unsure, Werner said there's always a seat on the patio outside the brewery, where she'll happily sing the praises of her new home.

"Come here, see what's special about Jefferson and enjoy a beer with us," she said.

Sounds like a pretty fun time.
24,000 Nigerians are reported missing and being traced by their families, according to the International Committee of Red Cross, ICRC.

Also,a total of 2.2 million persons in the North East are displaced from their original homes at the moment.

The International aid agency which disclosed this, Tuesday,has requested partnership with the federal government through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development in resolving the 24,000 requests of missing persons made by Nigerian families.

Vice President of the ICRC Gilles Carbonnier made this known when he paid a courtesy call on the the Minister, Sadiya Umar Farouq.

Mr Carbonnier,who stated that a total of 2.2m Displaced persons were domiciled in the North East also offered the services of its Central Tracing Agency in finding missing persons during disasters as well as the forensic management of the dead during emergencies.

He said:" We have received 24,000 requests from Nigerian families who came to us to ask for news of their daughters or sons who are unaccounted for.

"We seek to work with different entities to progress in the resolution of these missing cases. In Africa, this accounts for half of the case load of missing persons on the continent.

"We also have strong expertise in forensic science on how to deal with what we call dead body management in cases of emergencies, to help in the dignified management of the dead and also ensure that people don't go missing during emergencies and disasters.

"We celebrated the 100th anniversary of our Central Tracing Agency that deals with identifying missing persons and reconnecting them with their families. In that framework, I think that it will be good for Nigeria to have an inter -ministerial mechanism where these cases of missing persons can first be registered in a central data base.

Close Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox Top Headlines Nigeria Human Rights International Organisations By submitting above, you agree to our privacy policy. Success! Almost finished... We need to confirm your email address. To complete the process, please follow the instructions in the email we just sent you. Error! Error! There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later.

"We also seek the domestication or implementation of traditions of the Kampala convention and see how we can assist in finding feasible solutions that are consistent with the principles of the Kampala Conventions".

In her response, the minister appreciated the International Committee of Red Cross for its numerous humanitarian works in Nigeria especially in the North East and their provision of support and succor for the displaced persons affected by disaster.

Noting that," The main focus here apart from the humanitarian intervention is is to provide durable solutions to these vulnerable groups", Farouq said:"The Federal government has approved the National Policy on Internally Displaced Persons which also includes working towards the domestication of the Kampala Convention. We are working with the National Assembly and relevant authorities."

She spoke further:"The ministry is keen on working with the ICRC on missing persons to learn from your expertise on addressing these issues. There are a lot of issues of unaccompanied minors in the IDP camps who have lost their parents and we don't even know their identities. This is something the government is working on to see how these unaccompanied minors can be identified. We can collaborate with your Agency to trace their identities and find lasting solutions to missing persons in emergency situations.

"The forensic science of managing mass fatalities during disasters is very important as well and I am sure that the National Emergency Management Agency will key into this forensic support. These are areas that the ministry is very much interested in".

The IRCS delegation also included Bruno Raymond, Protection Coordinator ICRC Geneva, Mona Sadek, Deputy Regional Director for Africa and Head of delegation ICRC Abuja Yann Benton."
(Natural News) The Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines are part of a bigger plan to eliminate free will. ReAwaken America Tour founder and Thrive Time Show host Clay Clark brought up the idea during the February 1 edition of his program on Brighteon.TV.

Clark played a video of his January 29 interview with Dave Hayes of The X22 Report. Osteopathic physician Dr. Sherri Tenpenny joined Clark in the interview, where she declared the entire COVID-19 pandemic to be a fraud.

Tenpenny said: Weve only had a case-demic and the cases mean nothing because the [PCR] test couldnt distinguish between coronaviruses and influenza viruses? Doesnt that just say to the world that all of it is nonsense [and] we ought to throw all of it underneath the bus?

Tenpenny also called on people to stop calling the COVID-19 shots vaccines and instead call them by the more appropriate term genetic modification treatments.

We need to stop using the words vaccine and vaccinated because they are not vaccines. They definitely do cause harm because theyre genetic modification technologies, Tenpenny said. The messenger RNA has never been used in human beings before. It has only been issued under emergency use authorization. They dont keep you from getting sick, they dont stop the transmission, [and] they do not lower the hospitalization rate.

Meanwhile, Clark shared several revelations about the COVID-19 vaccines. He pointed out that in 2008, the National Institutes of Health began research on how to block out the VMAT2 gene  also known as the God gene  which influences spirituality.

In December 2019, a technology was created to use mRNA to deliver CRISPR gene editing  which was incidentally first done in China by researcher Jiankui He. The CRISPR patent to alter human genomes was filed half a year later in June 2020.

What does CRISPR gene editing do? It allows you to block out the God gene, said Clark. (Related: Clay Clark digs into vaccines and transhumanism with Dr. Carrie Madej  Brighteon.TV.)

COVID shots bring hackable humans one step closer to reality

Clark also showed footage of Israeli intellectual Yuval Noah Harari, who talked about the concept of humans being hackable at length. The Thrive Time Show host also revealed that Harari, a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, also serves as the lead adviser to Klaus Schwab, the World Economic Forum founder and executive director.

Humans are now hackable animals. Today, we have the technology to hack human beings on a massive scale: Everything is being digitalized [and] being monitored in this time of crisis. The whole idea of humans [having] this soul and free will? Thats over, said Harari.

Harari summed up his ideas through the equation BxCxD=A  which means biological knowledge multiplied by computing power [and] data equals the ability to hack humans.

If you know enough biology and have enough computing power and data, you can hack my body and understand me better than I understand myself. You can do that not just to me, but to everyone, Harari said.

In the past, many tyrants and governments wanted to do it. But nobody understood biology well enough and nobody had enough computing power and data to hack millions of people. But soon, at least some corporations and governments will be able to systematically hack all the people.

Harari hammered his transhumanist ideas further by saying: We humans should get used to the idea that we are no longer mysterious souls. We are now hackable animals. A system that understands us better than we understand ourselves can predict and manipulate our feelings and decisions and ultimately [decide] for us.

Clark also showed footage of Harari talking about the role of the COVID-19 vaccines in this transhumanist agenda.

Its often said that you should never allow a good crisis to go to waste because [it] is an opportunity to also do reforms that, in normal times, people will never agree to. But in a crisis, you see we have no chance  so lets do it, Harari told the interviewer.

The [COVID-19] vaccine will help us, of course. It will make things more manageable, [such as] surveillance. People could look back in 100 years and identify the [pandemic] as the moment wherein a new regime of surveillance took over.

More related stories:

COVID-19 vaccine reactions being blamed on PEG, but could it be the body responding to mRNA transhumanist genetic reprogramming?

Technological parasitism: Covid vaccines appear to contain self-assembling nano-octopus microparticles.

BardsFM: Elites seek control of Fourth Industrial Revolution, evolution of transhumanism  Brighteon.TV.

Watch the full Feb. 1 episode of Thrive Time Show below. Tune in to the program every Monday to Friday from 3:30 to 4 p.m. on Brighteon.TV.

Vaccines.news has more on the real purpose of COVID-19 vaccines.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

TimeToFreeAmerica.com
Nairobi  The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has filed an application seeking an order to hold a US-Kenyan citizen Nathan Ndung'u wanted in Rwanda over fraud.

Ndung'u was convicted and handed five years in jail over fraud and illegal selling of property.

Prosecuting counsel Catherine Mwaniki told principal magistrate Bernard Ochoi that Ndungu was convicted in absentia in February 2012 and the government of Rwanda has been looking for him until he was arrested on January 31 as he arrived from the US.

"THAT Republic of Rwanda tried him in absentia where the court convicted in absentia for selling property belonging to another person, coupled with fraud as well as deceit and sentenced him to five (5) years imprisonment," the prosecutions said.

Mwaniki said that the fugitive was convicted for an offense of selling properties belonging to a different person.

She added that the Republic of Rwanda has indicated that they are in the process of forwarding the formal Extradition Request to the Republic of Kenya.

She applied that the court gives an order to police to hold him for a period of 21 days to enable the State file an application for extradition.

However, the application by the DPP was strongly opposed by Ndungu's lawyers Danstan Omari and Cliff Ombeta who argued that their client has been traveling in and out of the country for 10 years since the judgement was passed.

They urged the court to ignore the said warrant issued to The International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to their client saying he is not a flight risk.

Ndungu's lawyers argued that their client holds both the Kenyan and US citizenship and has been engaging in business in the country.

They added that their client will not leave the jurisdiction of the court if granted bail.

The court moved the ruling to Friday and ordered police to ensure Ndung'u's medical needs are attended to.
(Natural News) The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) wants public school educators to play a much bigger role in combating online misinformation by brainwashing their students in being gullible enough to believe that only corporate media giants are trusted sources.

The union announced that it is now partnering up with NewsGuard, a digital censorship tool that protects Big Pharma, to make its ratings information available to AFTs 1.7 million members, as well as the tens of millions of students they indoctrinate on a daily basis.

Thanks to a new licensing agreement, the AFT was able to give public school teachers free access to NewsGuard and its traffic light news ratings information and Nutrition Label reviews.

In an announcement, AFT president Randi Weingarten said that the effort is focused primarily on middle school, high school and post-secondary students.

This historic deal will not only help us steer clear of increasingly fetid waters  it will provide a valuable lesson in media literacy and a discussion point for teachers in class on what can, and cant, be trusted, Weingarten said in a statement.

Weingarten, by the way, was earlier caught taking off her mask to help others hear her speak, even as she continues to advocate for the forced muzzling of all public school children at all times.

Media Research Center warns that NewsGuard cant be trusted

According to Weingarten, NewsGuard is a beacon for clarity when it comes to identifying rightspeak as opposed to wrongspeak. The conservative-leaning Media Research Center (MRC), however, says that NewsGuard is not to be trusted.

Earlier in the month, MRC warned that NewsGuard has quickly gained a reputation for falsely attacking conservative sites while promoting biased left-wing sites as objective.

The group added that NewsGuard rates left-leaning news sites 27 points higher on a 100-point scale than right-leaning news outlets.

When it comes to information about the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19), NewsGuard ranks anything that parrots the official narrative highest on the rankings while downgrading anything that questions the likes of Tony Fauci (NIAID) and Rochelle Walensky (CDC).

NewsGuard is actually partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO), which feeds it true information about the Fauci Flu that can then be used to parse out the false information.

On its website, NewsGuards list of COVID-19 misinformation super-spreaders includes the Facebook page of the late conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh and others who linked to Mr. Limbaughs website, including Colorado for Donald Trump 2020 which was not affiliated with the former presidents campaign, reports the Washington Times.

Some of us remember a time when school was about teaching children how to read, write and understand math. How did we devolve from that to teaching students how to become snitches for the Ministry of Truth?

Here is a novel idea: stick to teaching the 3Rs (reading, writing and arithmetic) and educated people can then decide for themselves what the beacon of clarity may be, is how one reader at the Times put it.

Another emphasized the fact that NewsGuard was created specifically to censor alternative, and often conservative, points of view. Anything that defies the official government position on a matter is fact checked and automatically labeled as false.

NewsGuard is another of those web sites designed to censor conservative views. What a shock the teachers union is partnering with them.

Over at Natural News, a reader pointed out that Weingarten is a hypocrite and a fraud for pushing this agenda on children, even as she defies the rules herself.

The only purpose of forced masking was to identify the willing, suggested another.

The latest news about how public schools are becoming fascist breeding grounds for censorship can be found at Censorship.news.

Sources for this article include:

WashingtonTimes.com

NaturalNews.com
In one 30-second television ad, we've learned two things about Nebraska gubernatorial candidate Jim Pillen. First, he likes to hunt, and second, he doesn't like the Democrats currently running Washington, D.C.

We know nothing more about his plan to make The Good Life better.

The other high-profile opponent, Charles Herbster, has touted as his strongest advantage the endorsement of former President Donald Trump

At this early point in the campaign it's Pillen's gun-toting TV ad where he pledges to "keep Nebraska safe, but we'll do it the Nebraska way," that has attracted much attention. That's sad because politics are local. The decisions that directly impact our daily lives aren't made in our nation's capital, and they can't be reduced to sound bites.

Nebraska is a hunting state and a good number of voters can appreciate his love for the sport. However, we need to know much more about anyone who wants to be the next governor.

Certainly Pillen understands the need for a game plan. He played for Tom Osborne and the Huskers in the 1970s. But even that doesn't help voters.

Nor, in Nebraska at least, does bashing President Joe Biden for his handling of the economy or Dr. Anthony Fauci for the way the COVID-19 pandemic has unfolded over the last two years.

Griping about what's going on in Washington is just red meat for a GOP base. It has nothing to do with the job Pillen is seeking.

That said, the ad is a concerning preview of a gubernatorial race that needs to be about running for Nebraskans, not running against Washington.

As voters, we must ask candidates -- be they running for school boards, city councils, congressional seats or governor -- to answer the questions that matter about the jobs they are seeking.

The Journal Star puts out a voters' guide that asks the candidates for their stances on what we believe are the important issues facing their constituents this year. We will do so again in advance of the May primary because we believe it gives our readers the information they need to make educated choices.

In the gubernatorial race, that means how candidates would use federal pandemic-aid funding, their plans for Nebraska's roads and infrastructure and their ideas on education -- the funding of it, not the teaching of critical race theory, which does nothing but rile the base.

If the voters are to determine who can best lead the state, we need more policy and less posturing, and we need candidates who, instead of striking a pose, will take a stance.
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A 'brave and fearless' toddler was tragically mauled by the family dog after the two-year-old wandered into the backyard without his mother spotting him, a source close to the family claims.

Talan Peters was savaged by the animal and suffered serious head injuries in the attack at his Mena Creek home near Innisfail, 100km south of Cairns in Queensland.

He was airlifted to Townsville but later died in hospital when his vital organs failed while he was in an induced coma after brain surgery.

The dog was killed by its owner before police arrived at the scene.

A family friend revealed the heartbroken mum said she wasn't aware Talan had gone outside. 'It's a very unfortunate, horrible accident.' she added.

Talan Peters, two, (pictured) suffered serious head injuries during the attack at the family home in Mena Creek, near Innisfail, 100km south of Cairns in Queensland

A GoFundMe page has been launched to help the family financially with the funeral costs for tragic Talan (pictured)

Locals say mother Amber Stewart had put Talan down for a nap without realising the baby gate was open. The toddler is said to have later woken up and gone outside where the dog was.

'He was a brave little soldier,' devastated dad James told news.com.au. 'He was happy, adventurous and fearless, and would light up a room with his smile and character.

'He fought right up until his last breath. He will be dearly missed by all family and friends. We have no words to explain the pain and loss we are feeling at this time.'

Mr Peters is believed to be a keen hunter with social media posts showing him posing with wild pig kills as well as fishing expeditions with his sons.

Locals say mother Amber Stewart (seen here with Talan and dad James) had put Talan down for a nap without realising the baby gate was open

Dad James Peters (pictured) is believed to be a keen hunter with social media posts showing him posing with wild pig kills as well as fishing expeditions with his sons

The family dog is said to have been used for pig hunting and was normally strictly kept away from Talan, and his brothers Lucas, five, and Kaden, aged one month.

Its breed has not been revealed. There is no suggestion Talan's parents were in any way irresponsible.

A Gofundme page to help the family as they recover from the tragedy has raised more than $23,000 from well-wishers after Talan's tragic death on Monday night.

'As you could imagine, this is a truly heartbreaking time for the family,' wrote cousin Bex Newman.

An Australian vet is now calling for the owners of aggressive dog breeds to face background checks and undergo a form of a licence test to own one.

The vet, who wishes to remain anonymous after threats from dog owners after he has spoken out in the past, also wants to make registration mandatory for all breeders of aggressive dogs to keep track of the animals in the community.

He believes it's vital new owners are fully trained in knowing what's needed to keep their families and others safe when they have an aggressive breed.

And he hopes an effective background check could weed out unsuitable owners before tragedies happen, and also stop more dogs ending up abandoned.

He added: 'People who have these should commit to training and have background checks.

'We need to limit breeding to registered people to avoid the dogs being bred unscrupulously and then inevitably ending up in pounds.'
The trio had content on their phones related to a destroyed Buddhist statue in Sichuan.

The 99-foot Buddha statue in Drago in the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is shown sheltered by a white canopy in an undated photo.

Chinese authorities in Sichuan province have arrested three Tibetan Buddhists they claim were in possession of politically sensitive information as they returned from a pilgrimage, Tibetan sources in exile say.

Asang, Dodra, and Nortso were interrogated by police on Jan. 10 while traveling home to Chamdo prefecture's Dakyab township from the sprawling Larung Gar Tibetan Buddhist Academy in Sichuans Serta (in Chinese, Seda) county and later arrested, a source told RFAs Tibetan Service, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Their cellphones were examined by police in Drago (Luhuo) county in the Kardze (Ganzi) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and all three of them were arrested for possessing politically sensitive information and pictures, the source said.

They were handed over to police in Chamdo and are currently held at the Chamdo Police Station.

A second Tibetan in exile, who also declined to be named, told RFA that the content on their phones was related to the destruction late last month of a three-story statue of Maitreya Buddha at Gaden Namyal Ling monastery in Drago.

They were interrogated by the police in Drago when they were arrested, the source said.

The police looked into all the group chat apps on their cellphones and charged them for keeping videos and pictures of the recent destruction of the Buddhist statue in Drago and also using those images as their screensaver wallpaper.

The confirmation of the removal of the statue of Maitreya, believed by Tibetan Buddhists to be a Buddha appearing in a future age, follows RFA's verification earlier this month of the destruction of a 99-foot tall statue 900 meters (2,700 feet) away.

Chinese authorities forced monks from local monasteries and Tibetans living in nearby towns to witness the demolition of the statue and 45 traditional prayer wheels, which began on Dec. 12 and continued for the next nine days, Tibetan sources in exile said, citing contacts in the area.

The three-story statue and the structure housing it were both torn down around the same time as the 99-foot Buddha, which authorities said was too tall, a Tibetan living in exile told RFA, citing contacts in Drago.

Drago county chief Wang Dongsheng had been present at the statues destruction and witnessed the brutal police beating of local Tibetans objecting to the demolition, sources said. Wang had earlier overseen a campaign of destruction of the Larung Gar Buddhist Academy in a move that saw thousands of monks and nuns expelled and homes destroyed.

Other Drago arrests

Authorities in China maintain a tight lockdown on the flow of information in and out of the countrys Tibetan regions, and it can often take weeks to learn of arrests and other incidents through the exile community.

A third source in exile recently told RFA that authorities had also detained a Buddhist nun named Lobsang Tsomo and a few other Tibetans in Drago county on Sept. 18 last year for having communicated with Tibetans in exile.

They were beaten and tortured while they were in prison and released after more than three months, the source said.

Despite their release, Lobsang Tsomo and the others who were released from prison are barred from leaving their county and remain under scrutiny by authorities, they added.

The destruction of the statues in Drago county and other religious sites signal a growing pattern of Chinese control over traditional Tibetan religious practice and increasing attempts by Beijing to recast Tibetan Buddhism as a Chinese faith, experts and observers say.

Formerly an independent nation, Tibet was invaded and incorporated into China by force 70 years ago.

Tibetans living in Tibet and in Tibetan areas of western Chinese provinces frequently complain of political, economic, and religious discrimination as well as human rights abuses and say they fear Beijing is pursuing ever more aggressive policies aimed at eradicating their national and cultural identity.

Translated by Tenzin Dickyi for RFAs Tibetan Service. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
New Delhi:

The 1984 rioting accused Jagdish Tytler on Monday joined Congress leader Priyanka Gandhias protest at India Gate against Citizenship Amendment Bill. Priyanka sat on a symbolic protest near India Gate over police action during students' protests in Jamia Millia Islamia & Aligarh Muslim University along with other top Congress leaders like KC Venugopal, AK Antony, PL Punia, Ahmed Patel, Ambika Soni.

"Registering my peaceful protest against brutal crackdown on students," Gandhi posted on Facebook. Earlier, the Congress leader said that the atmosphere in the country has become "bad", as she cited Delhi Police action against Jamia university students to hit out at the Union government.

"The country's atmosphere is bad. Police is entering university to beat up (students). The government has tinkered with the Constitution. We will fight for the Constitution," she said.

Her remarks came amid protests in different parts of the country against the amended Citizenship Act.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said the Priyanka Gandhi and other party leaders will observe a symbolic protest against attack on rights of youth.

"This is a government that has attacked the rights of youths and students of the country. That is why, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other senior Congress leaders have decided to sit on a symbolic protest at the India Gate from 4 pm, for the next 2 hours," Surjewala said.

She accused the Modi government on Sunday of being 'cowardly' as it feared to hear the voice of people and was making its presence felt through 'oppression' on students and journalists.

In a tweet late on Sunday night, she said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have to listen to the voice of the youth sooner than later as his government was trying to suppress their voice and courage with its ahollow dictatorshipa.

aStudents are being beaten by sneaking into universities of the country. At a time when the government should listen to the people, the BJP government that time is making its presence felt in the North East, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi through oppression on students and journalists. This government is cowardly,a the Congress general secretary said, using the hashtag aShamea.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai has expressed the UAEs keenness to expand economic and investment cooperation with India.

The UAE would like to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, a WAM report said. India is the UAEs second largest trading partner in the world while the UAE is India's third largest trading partner and the largest in the Arab world, HH Sheikh Mohammed said while meeting Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of the Indian state of Kerala, at Expo 2020 Dubai.

HH Sheikh Mohammed further said that the UAEs ability to provide a conducive environment for foreign investment, a supportive legislative framework that protects these investments and a productive base for international companies to establish their headquarters creates a wide range of opportunities for enhancing the partnership between the two countries.

Noting that Indias participation in Expo 2020 Dubai has enriched the event, he said the organisation of Kerala Week within the Indian Pavilion will showcase the states economic and investment potential.

The countrys participation in Expo 2020 Dubai gives an opportunity for the two countries to explore new partnerships that can help build on the strong historical ties between India and the UAE.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.

Welcoming the Kerala Chief Minister, HH Sheikh Mohammed praised the contributions of the Indian expatriate community to the UAEs development and highlighted the growing investments the two countries are making in each others economies, especially in renewable energy, logistics services, air transport and food security.

The Kerala Chief Minister expressed his pride in the strong relationship the people of the state have with the UAE.

He conveyed his deep appreciation to the UAE government for ensuring the welfare of the Indian expatriate community. Expatriates from Kerala account for a large percentage of the Indian community in the UAE.

Pinarayi Vijayan noted that the two countries have significantly enhanced their ties in recent years as evidenced by the growing bilateral trade.

He expressed the hope that the two sides will continue to advance their cooperation in various sectors and wished the UAE leadership and people continued progress and prosperity in the years to come.

The meeting was also attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; and a number of ministers and officials from both sides.-- TradeArabia News Service
Bilateral trade between the UAE and Japan reached $30.5 billion last year; UAE exports to Japan rose to $26 billion, while its imports from Japan increased to $6.5 billion by end of 2021, a media report said.



Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), urged Japanese investors and entrepreneurs to benefit from investments opportunities in Abu Dhabi and the suitable business environment to thrive and enhance relations, reported Emirates News Agency WAM.



Addressing the eighth session of the Abu Dhabi-Japan Economic Council (ADJEC), held virtually yesterday, Al Shorafa said, "Japan is among Abu Dhabis largest trading partners, and Japanese investments are on the rise; more than 340 Japanese companies have their bases in the UAE working in various sectors including infrastructure, industry, and energy."



Al Shorafa and Nobuyori Kodaira, President of Japan Cooperation Centre for the Middle East (JCCME) co-chaired ADJECs 8th session in the presence of Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Undersecretary of ADDED and several senior executives from both sides.



"Since the 7th session of ADJEC in October 2020, good progress was made to strengthen cooperation in various areas including Agritech, health services, biomedicine, ICT, financial services, and tourism," Al Shorafa said.



He reiterated that the government of Abu Dhabi is committed to enhancing the role of private sector in economy, and incentivising start-ups and SMEs, and the Emirate has outstanding investment opportunities.



"This year marks the 50th anniversary of Japan  UAE diplomatic relationship, and our bilateral relations predate the diplomatic records as Japan started crude oil imports from Abu Dhabi in 1962," said Kodaira.



"JCCME has initiated activities and held workshops on water and electricity with Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, Emirates Electricity and Water Co. (EWEC), and TAQA to enhance cooperation in the sector," he added.



Shihab Ahmed Alfaheem, UAE ambassador to Japan, said, "This session coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and the UAE. The cooperation between our countries has been diversified further into non-energy sectors, enhancing trade, investments, and business such as renewables, advanced technology and robotics, artificial intelligence, health care, medical equipment and space."



"UAE is Japans 10th largest trading partner globally in 2021 and meets nearly 23 percent of its total crude oil requirements. The strength of bilateral trade came post-COVID pandemic recovery, and the increase of main traded products such as motor vehicles, machineries and equipment, and aluminium," Alfaheem added.



"Japans FDI stock is estimated over $4 billion in 2021, while UAEs outward FDI stock in Japan is valued at around $2.1 billion. Although investments by Japanese multinational companies significantly declined, new business perspectives have been developed between two countries such as Japans first fuel ammonia cooperation deal with ADNOC," he said.



Isomata Akio, Japans Ambassador to UAE said: "The Council has significantly contributed to develop good bilateral relations between Japan and the UAE, and create business opportunities, through active discussion on energy, infrastructure, education and healthcare sector."



He added: "Innovation and youth education are important keywords for strengthening the bilateral relationship, noting that a joint declaration on the implementation of the comprehensive strategic partnership initiative is being prepared now and will be signed later this year."



A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) and Sumitomo Corporation, and joint group discussions focused on key sectors, including sustainable energy, infrastructure, education, and human resources.



Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) presented ways of creating business opportunities in the new environment, while Japanese counterpart presented cooperation opportunities in innovation. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) presented its views on cooperation toward the era of carbon neutral and Japans Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry presented Asia energy transition initiative.
The Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM) is confident they have found the final resting place of the research vessel used by British explorer Captain James Cook.

On Thursday, the chief executive of the ANMM Kevin Sumption said the final resting place of the ship had been identified after more than two centuries.

The ship, known as the Endeavour, was famously used by Cook on his first voyage of discovery to the Pacific Ocean between 1768 and 1771, resulting in Britains first encounter with the unknown southern land  Australia.

Mr Sumption told reporters at a media event in Sydney: We can conclusively confirm that this is indeed the wreck of Cooks Endeavour.

This is an important moment. It is arguably one of the most important vessels in our maritime history.

His announcement came after a 22-year investigation of a number of 18th century ships in a two-square mile area off the US coast.

The famous ship lay just 500 metres off the coast of Rhode Island, where it was buried in nearly 250 years worth of sediment and silt, 14 metres below the surface.

However, an hour after Mr Sumptions announcement, the Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project (RIMAP) stepped in, labelling the announcement premature and a breach of contract.

The executive director of RIMAP Dr Kathy Abbass fired back at the Australians claim, adding that RIMAP was the lead organisation for the study.

In a statement provided to Guardian Australia, she said: There are many unanswered questions that could overturn such an identification (of the shipwreck as being the Endeavour).

RIMAP recognises the connection between Australian citizens of British descent and the Endeavour, but RIMAPs conclusions will be driven by proper scientific process and not Australian emotions or politics.

HM Bark Endeavour, a full-scale replica of Captain Cooks ship, is pulled by a tugboat from Middlesbrough to its permanent home in Whitby (Danny Lawson/PA)

In a statement on the ANMM website, Mr Sumption announced: It is with great pride that after a 22-year program of archival and archaeological fieldwork that, based on a preponderance of evidence approach, I have concluded that an archaeological site known as RI 2394, located in Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, USA, comprises the shipwreck of HM Bark Endeavour.

Since 1999, maritime archaeologists had been investigating several 18th century ships in the underwater site.

The findings, which are the joint work of the ANMM, the RIMAP and the Silentworld Foundation, will now be published and peer-reviewed by archaeologists from around the globe.

But for now, theres a lot confidence that Endeavour has finally been found, Mr Sumption said.

The Endeavour was deliberately sunk in 1778 in Newport Harbour by British forces around seven years after its key role in Cooks first voyage to the Pacific.

After chartering the oceans which were largely unknown to Europeans at the time, including the New Zealand coast and the east coast of Australia  where it narrowly avoided shipwreck on the Great Barrier Reef  the Endeavour was largely forgotten.
One month before models return to the runway for the Melbourne Fashion Festival, dynamic chief executive Graeme Lewsey is taking an early bow after 11 years in one of the industrys most coveted roles.

Lewsey has survived numerous wardrobe malfunctions, the demands of supermodel guests Doutzen Kroes, Helena Christensen and Ashley Graham, along with Celeste Barber and actress Melissa George, three major sponsors, three chairmen and the challenges of COVID-19.

Retiring chief executive Graeme Lewsey with models backstage at the 2019 Melbourne Fashion Festival. Credit:Lucas Dawson

Thats 11 years of sitting front row at almost every show, feeling incredibly excited and absolutely terrified, Lewsey, 53, said. There are so many things that can go wrong, and sometimes they did. I feel privileged to have been at the helm of the most successful and longest-running consumer-focused fashion event of substance in the world, but its time to pass the baton on.

By focusing on inclusivity and sustainability, Lewseys reign at the not-for-profit festival moved conversations in Australian fashion beyond air-kissing into activism. At the beginning of his tenure public debate focused on whether skinny models could walk in high heels and the horror of stray Band-Aids on the runway, progressing to the challenge of making everyone feel seen on the runway.
If todays California is what the rest of America will look like tomorrow, you might want to brace yourself for too little water, too much animal manure, and $4.65-per-gallon gasoline.

And, weird, too, because in California these too-little, too-much, and too-expensive elements have been combined to create what was thought to be a partial cure for climate change.

The first, water, is precious. The same amount of municipally-supplied water that costs $23 a month in Nebraska costs $65 a month in the Golden State. Only 20% of all water, however, flows to 39 million Californians; agriculture gulps the other 80%.

Thirsty crops, right? More like thirsty livestock: 47% of Californias water footprint is associated with the production of meat and dairy, reports the Sacramento-based Comstocks Magazine.

Digesters

Animals and water  no matter the livestock or the state  means manure. In California, that combination also means taxpayer subsidies to build manure handling systems to capture methane generated in anaerobic digesters to be burned by vehicles or put into the natural gas grid.

That recipe sounds like a two-birds-with-one-stone solution to ags two growing problems, increased methane pollution from a deepening dependence on confined animal feeding operations and animal ags growing role in global climate change  or at least it did until manure digesters were built and monitored.

Their early results were worse than poor, according to a January report on manure digesters by Reuters. In fact, the results were dismal.

In 2009, the story noted, the Obama administration and an industry group, the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, pledged to reduce the industrys greenhouse gas emission by 25% by 2020 over levels in 2007, in part by expanding federal support for new digesters.

Bigger problems

Instead, methane emissions in the sector have risen more than 15%, in part driven by growth in herd size   In short, one solution  methane-making manure digesters  led to a second, bigger problem, more manure-making cows.

Thats just basic ag economics, explained Rebecca Wolf of Food & Water Watch, an environmental watchdog group, in the Reuters story: If you start making money off of pollution, youre not going to stop polluting.

Indeed, pollution grows with digesters because livestock numbers grow with digesters.

States like Iowa, however, are choosing to ignore the acrid evidence. Recently, Iowa enacted a digester-promoting law that, according to the Cedar Rapids Gazette, not only doesnt worry about livestock expansion it allows Iowa animal feeding operations to exceed confinement capacity if [farmers] install an anaerobic digester to treat all manure

Uncle Sam wants in the bigger CAFOs/bigger digester game, too.

The Biden Administrations still-unpassed, $1-trillion-plus Build Back Better program contains a river of federal subsidies to promote climate mitigation strategies like manure digesters in the coming years.

Flatten the trend

Some ag researchers, however, want to flatten that rising trend.

In a Dec. 14 podcast titled On biodigesters  are they a real win-win technology? three University of Iowa research professors, Silvia Secchi, Chris Jones and Dave Cwiertny, agreed that Iowas new focus on digesters as a solution to the states overwhelming livestock manure problem almost guarantees more and bigger CAFOs in Iowa and even more unmanageable manure.

If this is such a winning proposition for farmers, noted Secchi, an economist and geographer, in the episode, why should public money be spent on it; why not private investment?

Secchi goes on to add, We are rushing headlong into these so-called solutions because they have this feel-good factor like soil health but dont yet have the results to prove it.

California, however, now faces some digester indigestion. Recently, noted Reuters, Environmental groups petitioned the California Air Resources Board to make [manure digesters] ineligible for [state] credits, arguing their presumed role in combating climate change was inflated and that the credits encourage making more manure.

Which California  and the rest of the U.S. and its taxpayers neither need nor want.
Sydney-based technology services business Atturra and cloud ERP provider Infor will be working together to provide improved services to new and existing Infor customers in Australia and New Zealand, with a particular focus on digital transformation in the local government sector.

Atturra's business applications division is one of the largest independent suppliers of ERP consulting services to local government authorities in Australia and New Zealand, and is now Infor's first alliance partner in that market.

Atturra has already helped more than 100 local councils to enhance and simplify their business processes.

"We are thrilled to be partnering with Infor," said Atturra business applications executive general manager Richard Hill.

"With this alliance, we will be able to deliver superior results and outcomes for Infor customers in the public sector space. We have significant experience working with local governments, most recently in NSW, where we have been instrumental in helping them to streamline the development applications process and turn around applications with increased accuracy and speed."

Infor ANZ managing director Jarrod Kinchington said "Atturra business applications helps reinvent application portfolios, built with speed and agility, and enables clients to meet business needs, now and in the future.

"The team has impressed us with its expertise and excellent client service in previous engagements with Infor, and today's partnership announcement reflects the strength and depth of that relationship."
In March, 2021, Chinas smart phone company Xiaomi announced that it would start its own automaking business. In the following nine months, the company finished the units registration and decided its headquarters and plants location. Meanwhile, it is also busy with attracting talents. To focus on the automotive business, Lei Jun, CEO of the group, has resigned from multiple companies.

Photo credit: Xiaomi

Gasgoo chose several important news of Xiaomis auto business in 2021.

Xiaomi announces EV investment of $10 billion in ten years

Xiaomi will set up a subsidiary for smart electric vehicle business, which its board of directors has approved, the smartphone maker announced at the end of March, 2021.



The initial investment of the new company will be RMB10 billion while the total investment in the next 10 years will be around $10 billion. Lei Jun, CEO of the group, will serve as the CEO of the electric vehicle business. The smartphone maker said in the announcement that it is committed to making living smart anytime and anywhere for global consumers with high-quality intelligent electric vehicles.

At the Xiaomi 2021 New Product Launch held on Tuesday, Mr. Lei revealed that its team started to explore the possibility of its own electric vehicle business on January 15 of this year. After 75 days of deep communication within the company and with industry experts, the company decided to commence its electric vehicle business, which the company thinks is a segment with great potential.

Xiaomi builds new tech subsidiary qualifying for NEV sale

Xiaomi recently established a subsidiary whose business scope covers sale of new energy vehicles (NEVs).



Founded on August 2, 2021 and located in Zhuhai, Guangdong province, the new company, dubbed Guangdong Hengqin Xiaomi Technology Development Co.,Ltd. (called Zhuhai Xiaomi for short), involves a registered capital of 1 million yuan ($154.7 million) and is wholly owned by Xiaomi Technology Co.,Ltd. It has a line of business covering sale of NEVs, import & export of technologies and goods, information system integration service, software development, and manufacturing of communications facilities.

Xiaomi finishes registration of automobile company

Xiaomi has completed the Industrial and Commercial registration of its automobile company, which has a registered capital of RMB10 billion, and Lei Jun, the phone makers founder and CEO, will serve as the new companys legal representative, Xiaomi announced on the first day of September.



Xiaomis automobile company headquartered in Beijing

Xiaomi Automobile Co.,Ltd. was officially registered in Beijing Economic Technological Development Area on September 1 with a registered capital of 10 billion yuan ($1.546 billion), according to the business data provider Tianyancha. The registration means that Xiaomi's electric vehicle (EV) unit has been headquartered in the capital of China.

This is the first milestone in the development of Xiaomi's automobile arm. Led by Mr. Lei, Xiaomi is taking the fast lane for its car building business, said the company.

Xiaomi in talks with FAW Group, welcome to cooperate with Jilin companies

Xiaomi held in-depth talks with FAW Group about their cooperation when its founder visited Jilin province last week and had a meeting with the province's officials.



On September 9th, Lei Jun, founder and CEO of Xiaomi met with Jing Junhai, the secretary of Jilins provincial party committee, and Han Jun, Jilins provincial governor.

As a globally renowned enterprise, Xiaomi has vital research and development and production capability in consumer electronics and intelligent manufacturing, Jing Junhai said. In vehicle manufacturing field, Jilin can be a good partner for Xiaomi as the northeast province possesses a mature industrial base, robust scientific research strength, and ample talent reserve.

Xiaomi said to adopt dual-factory model, acquire Borgward plant

Xiaomi EV may adopt a dual factory production model, people familiar with the matter told a local media outlet.



On the one hand, Xiaomi hopes to promptly gain production capacity and related certifications by acquisition. Meanwhile, it plans to build its own plant in a second location for stable production capacity. Sources said that the Beijing government is encouraging Xiaomi to acquire Borgward AG for production certification.

Xiaomi EV company names new vice president

Li Xiaoshuang, general manager of Xiaomi's major home appliances department, has been named vice president of Xiaomi's electric vehicle (EV) unit to be accountable for the businesses related to products, supply chain, and marketing, Xiaomi Group announced on Oct. 15.



Xiaomi Auto expects mass production in early 2024

The chairman of Xiaomi, Lei Jun, disclosed that Xiaomis automaking progress has far surpassed his anticipations and mass production of vehicles will start in the first half of 2024.



Lei Jun explained, his automaking endeavor is not attention-seeking. As the EV industry transitioned from mechanical to informational, Xiaomi will be obsolete if not participate alongside its peers. By virtue of the companys already formed smart ecosystem ranging from smartphones to home appliances and innovative office solutions, the company will be well positioned to integrate vehicle functions.

Xiaomi EV team expanded to over 500 people

Xiaomis automaking endeavor is going smoothly with its team expanded to over 500 members, according to the smartphone giants third-quarter financial report.



The group also reemphasized its schedule of starting mass production of its first electric vehicle in the first half of 2024.

Xiaomi EV to build plant in Beijing E-Town with annual capacity of 300,000 vehicles

Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area, also called E-Town announced on November 27th that Xiaomi EV has officially sealed the deal of setting up its headquarters in the area.



According to the contract, Xiaomi will construct a headquarter base, a sales base, an R&D base, and a vehicle manufacturing plant in E-Town. The manufacturing plant will be built in two phases with a designed production capacity of 150,000 vehicles each, which sums up to a total production capacity of 300,000 vehicles annually.

Xiaomis Lei Jun resigns from multiple companies to focus on automaking

In the past few months, founder and CEO of Xiaomi, Lei Jun, resigned as the executive director from several Xiaomi-related companies to dedicate his attention to his automaking endeavor, according to the PR manager of Xiaomi, Wang Hua.



Today, the PR manager said that the changes were normal corporate conduct, as Lei Jun has shifted his primary focus onto Xiaomis automaking business. The other administrative executives of the company can share the corresponding responsibilities and obligations.

He also reemphasized Lei Juns excitement regarding Xiaomis car making progress and said that this signifies Xiaomis accelerated vehicle making development. Lei Juns undivided dedication is needed at this stage.
New Delhi, February 3: A man who allegedly stabbed his wife to death surrendered before the Police in Delhi's Govindpuri early Thursday morning, the police said. A resident of Tughlakabad Extension, Delhi informed Police about the incident.

Police rushed to the spot soon after the information was received. According to Delhi Police, "A man killed his wife and surrendered at the police station in Govind Puri. He stabbed his wife with scissors, which led to the death of the victim."

Also Read | Realme 9 Pro Series India Launch Set for February 16, 2022.

Scissors, a pressure cooker, and a cylinder used in killing the victim have been seized, Police said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
NORTH CHARLESTON  Police said they were continuing their search for a 56-year-old man who was last seen in late December.

Stacy L. Brothers, who has schizophrenia and paranoia, hasn't been seen since Dec. 20, North Charleston police spokesman Harve Jacobs said.

Officers classified Brothers as a "vulnerable adult." He wasn't reported missing until mid-January, Jacobs said in a Feb. 2 news release.

He is possibly driving a gray Lexus sedan with California tags. Authorities don't know what he was last wearing, Jacobs said.

Police in Mount Pleasant said they are also working a missing-persons case involving a vulnerable adult.

Vernon Snipe, 54, was least seen on Volunteer Lane near Hungry Neck Boulevard the evening of May 10.

He was released from the Charleston County jail earlier that day after posting bail on a third-degree assault and battery charge, records show.

A missing persons report prepared at the time by the Charleston County Sheriff's Office noted Snipe was receiving treatment for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

A sheriff's office investigation determined Snipe was last seen in Mount Pleasant, and the case was transferred to the Mount Pleasant Police Department, Inspector Don Calabrese said.

Snipe, who is bald with a goatee, has also experienced homelessness in the past, Calabrese said in a Jan. 31 news release.

Snipe remains classified as a missing person, and detectives don't believe he's "on the run" from the assault charge, Calabrese said.

Anyone with information relating to Brothers can call North Charleston's investigating officer at 843-822-1113.

To contact the Mount Pleasant detective investigating Snipe's disappearance, call 843-884-4176 or the consolidated dispatch center at 843-743-7200.

You can also leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry at 843-554-1111 or www.5541111.com.
New Delhi:

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on Monday released a statement where she slammed the modi government over Citizenship Amendment Act. Accusing BJP of launching war against the people of India, Gandhi said that the government is waging war against the youth of the country.

"The job of the government is to maintain peace and tranquility in the country and to protect the constitution, but the current dispension is attacking the people," Sonia Gandhi said.

Sonia Gandhi also dared Home Minister Amit Shah to visit violence hit Northeast.

Congress leaders led by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, on the other hand, also held a sit-in at the India Gate on Monday in a show of solidarity with the students from Jamia Millia Islamia and several other universities across the country protesting the contentious amended citizenship law.

The Congress general secretary was joined by leaders like Ahmed Patel, A K Antony, Ghulam Nabi Azad and Randeep Singh Surjewala, besides hundreds of party workers. Before sitting on the dharna at the India Gate lawns, Priyanka Gandhi cited Delhi Police action against Jamia university students to hit out at the Modi government, saying the atmosphere in the country has become bad.

The countrys atmosphere is bad. Police is entering university to beat up (students). The government has tinkered with the Constitution. We will fight for the Constitution, she said. Congress spokesperson Surjewala said the two-hour protest, which began at 4 pm, is to express solidarity with students from Jamia Millia Islamia University and other places.

Thousands of students across India took to the streets demanding a probe into the use of teargas inside the Jamia library as well as police entering the campus without permission from university authorities on Sunday. Jamia turned into a battlefield on Sunday as police entered the campus after a protest against the amended citizenship law near the varsity turned violent.

Earlier, Congress and several opposition political parties condemned the alleged police brutality against students of Jamia and demanded a judicial inquiry into it. How could the police enter Jamia and unleash such brutality on the students when the university authorities did not allow the police to enter it, Azad asked.

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HARRISBURG  Pennsylvania's Democratic-majority Supreme Court wrested control Wednesday of choosing new district lines for the state's shrinking congressional delegation, a process that deadlocked the governor and Legislature.

The five Democratic justices issued an order directing a lower judge to give them a report by Monday that recommends a new map, along with her legal and factual findings that support it.

Commonwealth Court Judge Patricia McCullough, a Republican, will serve as a "special master." Parties in the redistricting case she has been handling who object to her report can do so before the Supreme Court by Feb. 14. Oral arguments will occur Feb. 18.

Signature-gathering for petitions to get on the May 17 primary ballot is scheduled to begin Feb. 15 but may be delayed. Both Republicans on the Supreme Court dissented.

Chief Justice Max Baer, a Democrat, said the court was stepping in to move the process more quickly.

"The threat of any appeal period from the Commonwealth Court decision to this court reduces the scant days available for this court to obtain briefs, study this complex and important matter, and render a decision," Baer wrote, noting the pressures of the state's elections calendar.

Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf has vetoed a proposed map that passed the Republican-majority Legislature on nearly party lines.

Justice Sallie Mundy, a Republican, said she would prefer to let McCullough render a decision and opinion and then expedite an appeal, rather than have the court exercise its jurisdiction at this point.

The court majority said it was acting because of the impasse between Wolf and the General Assembly, adding that they see "time being of the essence." McCullough also was directed to give the justices a proposal to revise election deadlines.

Democrats last week asked the Supreme Court to take over the process from McCullough, arguing that its own precedent holds that the Supreme Court should select a new map when the executive and legislative branches are deadlocked, not a lower court judge.

Democrats had argued that it would go against that precedent to allow McCullough to issue an order adopting a particular map that she selects. Rather, they said, the court should follow its 1992 precedent, when it appointed a Commonwealth Court judge as a special master to provide a recommendation to the state Supreme Court.

Comparatively slow population growth over the past decade has cost the state a congressional seat, so the new map must account for a drop in the delegation from 18 to 17.
Its fantastic, and Im happy that I can go out and be young again, that we can go out and do all the things we used to do, Stine Thrane Andreasson, a student, told Swedens Sydsvenskan newspaper. I didnt think that restrictions were going to be taken away so soon. It feels like youre doing something illegal when you go into a shop without a face mask. Passengers stand at the Noerreport Metrostation in Copenhagen Denmark. Credit:AP Of course, Denmark has been here before. In September 2021, it did almost exactly the same thing, only to U-turn in early November when Omicron hit. Museums, cinemas, theatres and concert venues closed over Christmas and masks and vaccine passports were required for almost everything else. In the face of uncertainty about the new variant, the country did not want to chance its health system being overwhelmed.

Throughout the pandemic, our data shows that the key worry of Danes is not their own health, but overwhelmed hospitals, says Michael Bang Petersen, a professor of political science and government adviser, who led the countrys largest behavioural project during the crisis. Jens Flinck Bertelsen, an architect arriving for work in Copenhagen, noted there was an ambivalent feeling, given the high infection rates, and the fact that restrictions had been lifted before. Loading Just as Wednesdays opening passed without angst or controversy, the same was true of Novembers shutdown. Unlike in Sweden, or indeed much of the rest of the world, epidemiology in Denmark has not been politicised. Only the killing of up to 17 million mink in November 2020 generated real political heat. Instead, social consensus and trust in government have been Denmarks hallmarks. They are what many experts believe has made it one of the worlds top pandemic performers.

If you have a strategy based on trust and solidarity, then you can actually open up with a relatively broad agreement, where the vulnerable and the elderly are accepting of the risks, says Petersen. Loading The over-50s  96 per cent of whom are fully vaccinated  are taking on a personal responsibility to allow younger groups to live life as normal again. Opening up doesnt need to mean that you dont care about the vulnerable in society, and it doesnt mean that you dont take coronavirus seriously, he adds. Instead, he suggests its a trade-off based on data  something that Denmark, with its world-class genetic sequencing and mass testing, has a lot of.

What is interesting is that when we are looking at the opinion data that is available, even among the elderly theres a majority who are supporting the lifting of restrictions, says Petersen. Loading You could say that a lot of young people have been showing solidarity with the elderly throughout the pandemic [by locking down]  and now the elderly are showing solidarity with the younger generations. A recent listing of 23 OECD countries compiled by The Economist put Denmark top for economic performance over the last two years. Denmark managed this despite restrictions and while keeping deaths-per-million at the 640 mark, about half the western European average.

Indeed, if you look at many of the global charts on health performance during the pandemic, you often find Denmark bunched not with its European neighbours, but with Singapore and other east Asian countries. Some point to Denmarks infection rates, which were until last week heading up vertically, as evidence the country may be unwinding too soon. But Sren Brostrm, director of the Danish Health Authority, says with Denmarks leading rate of vaccination and the relative mildness of the Omicron variant, it no longer makes sense to look at infection rates. Im keeping my sights on the seriously ill, and looking at figures for inpatients in intensive care units - which have just kept falling and falling and are now incredibly low, he told the broadcaster TV2. Even if the lifting of restrictions does lead to a final spike in infections, he predicted that rates would drop away soon after. We have sky-high immunity in the population, partly due to our large vaccine acceptance, but also from the widespread of Omicron, said Brostrm. So will Denmarks latest reopening hold  and, if so, what does it mean for the rest of us?

Mette Frederiksen, the Prime Minister, said on Wednesday it was too early to know if measures just lifted may have to make a comeback. In contrast to Boris Johnsons broken promise last spring  that the UK exit roadmap would be irreversible, before introducing Plan B measures  Frederiksen said: I dare not say that it is a final goodbye to restrictions. We do not know ... whether there will be a new variant. Fredriksen has had a good pandemic. Denmark was the first country in northern Europe to bring in lockdown, on March 11, 2020, and quickly established a pattern of moving hard and fast  in either direction  based on what the data and the precautionary principle dictate. Lone Simonsen, an epidemiologist at Roskilde University, says: If you asked me to put a crystal ball in front of me, I would say: I think that this is the last sort of lockdown-crazy pandemic wave. Having gone through two, three, four pandemic waves  which is normal for recent historical pandemics  I imagine COVID control will [soon be] similar to that of seasonal flu. The Telegraph, London
A shockingly violent video is circulating on social media of two students fighting in the hall of a new school.

Two girls, said to be in Years 7 and 9 at Greater Shepparton Secondary College in regional Victoria, viciously brawled as adults looked on.

'Told you, told you,' a girl yells as one of the combatants is pushed against a wall and punched.

Two girls (pictured) in a violent brawl at Greater Shepparton Secondary College in Victoria

The other girl then punches back as a woman stands by, seemingly afraid to intervene.

The girls then both fall to the ground and continue the brawl there while someone is heard shouting 'get the f**k off her.'

A man then walks towards the pair as the fight continues and other students roar and swear.

The fight is ended not by the man and, but by a security guard in an orange hi-vis vest who, along with other students, pulled the brawling girls apart.

Daily Mail Australia contacted the school and was told it had no comment to make on the situation.

Police were called to the scene about 1.30pm on Wednesday but said 'no offences were detected'.

The $140 so called 'super-school' which came from the merger of four other public schools, just opened for the first time this week.

The new Greater Shepparton Secondary College (pictured) came from a merger of four other schools

Two adults (pictured) didn't seem to know how to stop the fight

Greater Shepparton Secondary College has 2,223 students and has space for hundreds more.

It is expected to be Victoria's biggest school within a few years.

Three of the schools shut as part of the merger - Shepparton High School, Mooroopna Secondary College and McGuire High School.

For many years they had Year 12 results among the worst in the state and the new amalgamated school hopes to turn that around.

Previous incidents in the schools included accusations of racism and an emergency lockdown when a student came to school with a replica gun.

Executive principal Barbara O'Brien said last week that teachers would make it clear they had 'greater expectations for students'.

'Shepparton will benefit from this,' she said.
Resonant Link, a Burlington, Vt.-based developer of wireless charging technology for medical devices and electric automotive fleets, raised $9.3m in seed funding.

The round was led by The Engine, with participation from new investor Volta Energy Technologies, pre-seed investors including Emerson Collective, Scout Ventures, Urban Us, and FreshTracks Capital.

The company intends to use the funds for strategic hiring, product development and customer deployment.

Resonant Link is building best-in-class wireless chargers to power implantable medical devices and accelerate electrification in robotics, material handling, and electric vehicles. Its powerful multi-layer self-resonant structure (MSRS) enables wireless chargers that are:

5-10x higher performance than is possible with existing technologies

5-10x faster charge (speed)

4x lower normalized cost

3x lighter in weight

3x smaller in size

Founded in 2017 by CEO Grayson Zulauf, PhD, Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, CTO Aaron Stein, PhD, Power Electronics, University of Michigan, CSO Phyo Aung Kyaw PhD, Electrical Engineering, Dartmouth, and Professor Charlie Sullivan of Dartmouth, Resonant Link is building wireless chargers to accelerate electrification in markets like robotics, material handling, and electric vehicles. Its products unlock electrification by recharging vehicles during the short stops that already exist during operation to extend range and shrink on-board batteries. Since founding, the company has landed customers in every sector (including 6 Fortune 500 companies) to power their mission-critical applications.

The company is headquartered in Vermont, has employees in Massachusetts, California, and Zurich and plans to expand in all three locations in 2022.

FinSMEs

02/02/2022
Dear Readers: We are part of the seamless web of life in our biosphere's constantly evolving matrix of being and becoming; of competing and cooperating; and of symbiotic wills and relationships. We have a duty to care. When we harm our relations and connections within this web we call nature, pathogens, predators and pollutants become problems.

We are now, as a species, in danger of creating more harm as we strive to restore those broken connections, which drugs, pesticides, bioengineering and artificial intelligence are not healing. Otherwise, we would surely have fewer pandemics, less pandemonium and less violence within and between nations.

An empathetic eco-centrism is called for: a metanoia transforming our anthropocentrism to embrace the wisdom, beauty and mystery of nature's interconnected web. We may then have grounds to celebrate our saving of the great apes  our closest relatives  and other endangered species, cultures and communities, great and small.

Prevention cheaper than cures

Zoonotic diseases account for more than 70% of emerging and reemerging pathogens, and experts in animal, human and environmental health must collaborate to reduce risk of future pandemics. So writes veterinarian Deborah Kochevar, a professor at Tufts University's School of Veterinary Medicine, along with Guilherme Werneck, a professor of epidemiology at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro.

A recent analysis found that the cost of the COVID-19 pandemic during 2020 dwarfs the estimated cost of mitigating viral spillover at high-risk human-animal interfaces using One Health principles and forest conservation. (Full story: TheConversation.com, Nov. 3)

In an October op-ed in the Minnesota Star Tribune, former commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Health Edward P. Ehlinger writes: "Too much money ($3.6 trillion per year) is spent on medical care (less than 3% going to prevention) with many treatments doing more harm than good. Approximately 25% of total health care costs are spent on wasteful activities, and about 250,000 deaths per year are due to medical errors, making 'iatrogenic' conditions the third leading cause of death." ("Defund the health care system," Star Tribune, Oct. 20)

Good news in France

Many countries now ban the exploitation of wild animals in circuses. (For details, visit four-paws.org/campaigns-topics/topics/wild-animals/worldwide-circus-bans.)

Now France has passed legislation, co-sponsored by veterinarian Dr. Loic Dombreval, to ban the use of wild animals in circuses, along with captive dolphin shows and mink farming. Activists regret there is no ban yet on bullfighting.

The U.S. is far behind in taking such humane measures, where money still seems to take precedence over protecting animals, the environment and public health and safety.

Dear Dr. Fox: I own a Neapolitan mastiff. We got her as a rescue, and they do not know where she came from. Ever since we got her, she gets aggressive when touched on the hind legs or when woken up. She immediately barks, growls or attacks our other dog, but snaps out of it in a few minutes.

My father can't take the stress, but I love her to death, and have already lost too many loved ones from cancer or other illnesses. I am begging you to please give me some advice, for I cannot lose her.  S.B., Trenton, New Jersey

Dear S.B.: You have a powerful and potentially dangerous dog in your home, who should not be threatening family members, including your other dog. They could get into a terribly injurious fight and you could get bitten trying to break it up.

You know nothing of this unstable mastiff's past, and her aggressive behavior may be defensive -- possibly due to PTSD from prior abuse or neglect. There could well be some underlying physical issue causing fear and pain, such as hip dysplasia or endocrine disturbance of thyroid function.

For a start, I would give the dog 9 mg of melatonin and 400 mg L-Theanine with a little meaty canned food in the late evening, and 6 mg of melatonin midmorning. This may help calm the dog down after a few days. A veterinary appointment is called for to rule out possible medical conditions, but you need to get a muzzle secured on the dog before any veterinarian will run the risk of examining this poor animal.

Send all mail to animaldocfox@gmail.com or to Dr. Michael Fox in care of Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
YORK  James T. Neely, 32, of Bradshaw, has been accused and formally charged with stealing a motorcycle in York.

This case began when the York Police Department received a call about the theft of a motorcycle on the 1300 Block of North Iowa Avenue. The motorcycle, a blue 1999 Harley Davidson Hugger 883 Custom Chrome, had been stolen from a garage.

The motorcycle was valued at approximately $4,000.

The owner, according to court documents, said the garage had been kept locked at all times. He left his residence and when he returned, it was discovered the garage door had been forced open from the outside as it was off the track. That was the point where it was discovered the motorcycle was gone.

Neely was named as a suspect in the crime, due to prior contact the owner had with him.

Later, the police department was advised that a deputy with the York County Sheriffs Department had recovered the stolen motorcycle. This happened after the owner received a call from someone who said his motorcycle was in a garage in Benedict.

When the deputy and the owner went to the residence in Benedict, they found a motorcycle in the middle of the process of being torn down. The deputy could tell the motorcycle was a Harley Davidson that used to be a bluish color but had been painted silver. The VIN number was run and it was found that this was the stolen motorcycle.

Through further investigation, it was determined that Neely was the person who brought the motorcycle to the garage in Benedict.

Based on the damage to the motorcycle, it was estimated it would cost in excess of $5,000 to repair everything that had been done to it.

Neely has been charged with burglary, a Class 2A felony, and theft by lawful taking with a value of $1,500-$4,000, a Class 4 felony.
Pottsville, PA (17901)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low around 45F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low around 45F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.
Students at the Booker T. Washington Community Center in Auburn are involved in a new educational program  and they will be able to make some money in the process.

Through its after-school program, BTW and Electus Global Education Co.  which provides technology to help children learn financial, entrepreneurship and life management skills  are collaborating to "provide the first financial and education technology that empowers children to learn how-to-earn and develop vital financial and career skills," according to a news release.

We are excited to partner with Electus Global Education Co. to provide the young people we serve with this new educational opportunity to develop at a very early age important life skills to learn, earn, save and manage their personal finances, Denise Farrington, the center's executive director, said in the news release.

Brandon Wakeham, the center's program director, told The Citizen that the organization has been working with Electus on a new program since January.

The students have completed two sessions, which Wakeham said are built within Microsoft Office. Currently the students are focusing on Microsoft Word, including basics such as how to make words bold, change font sizes, etc. Twenty-four students, all in fifth or sixth grade, are currently enrolled in the program.

Once they learn enough, students will be doing "edutasks," where they would read an article, watch a video or do something otherwise educational, he continued, and then respond to it through an essay or "some sort of project" within Microsoft Word. Each project is worth a certain amount of real money, with the money a student could earn going up depending on the task's complexity.

Students will be given their own debit cards with their names on them. Wakeman said the students are excited about being able to earn money, all while doing educational tasks and learning about financial literacy.

"It's actually one of the coolest projects we've ever done," Wakeham said.

An instructor in California has been working with the students over the video conferencing service Zoom. Wakeham noted that former state Sen. Mike Nozzolio pitched the idea to Denise Farrington. The funds the students will be receiving as they complete tasks were donated by people and identities such as Nozzolio himself, Lyons National Banks and The Muldrow Group.

The program won't be limited to the center, Wakeham said, as the students will able to log in at home or wherever they have computer access "so they can make as much money or as little money as they want, it just depends on how much time they have and how much time they want to put into it."

"So many kids are talking about how many tests they're going to do at home, (how) they're going to make so much money," Wakeham said. "They're so excited."
The start of the North Platte Public Librarys computer age was literally waiting for Cecelia Lawrence when she became director some 27 years ago.

There was one computer when I came, she said. This office was filled with boxes and boxes of computers. They were just getting ready for the (card catalog) automation project.

Now shes handing off the only library shes ever managed to her hand-picked successor.

Lawrence, 59, will retire Friday in favor of Sky (Shute) Seery, who pursued her own professional librarians career after volunteering and working for Lawrence from 2004 to 2011.

North Platte residents are invited to a retirement party for Lawrence from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday at the library, 120 W. Fourth St.

Mayor Brandon Kelliher and the City Council must permanently appoint Seery, 43, who rejoined the staff in June as full-time library director successor.

She was three years into her job as North Platte High Schools librarian when Lawrence  who converted a vacant full-time spot into an heir apparents job  shared her retirement plans.

Last spring, Cecelia called me and said, Lets do this, which was quite a shock to me, said Seery, a North Platte native and 1997 Hershey High School graduate.

She first joined the citys Library Advisory Board in 2004, then quit to become a circulation clerk from 2007 to 2011.

By then, she was taking college classes  with Lawrences encouragement.

I was just a mom with two little kids when I started, said Seery, a member of both the Library Advisory Board and library foundation board since 2011.

Those two kids, Johnathan and Paige, are now 22 and 14 respectively. And Seery now holds an associates degree from North Platte Community College, a bachelors in human resources management from Bellevue University and a masters in library and information services from the University of Missouri.

Ive been really lucky in my library career to have been guided toward positions, Seery said. It feels like coming home, having worked with a majority of the staff and even just in my volunteering.

She and her mentor share a vital characteristic: They fell in love with libraries as young adults.

Lawrence, a native of Cherokee, Iowa, got the bug through a work-study gig in the library at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion.

She worked for the Nebraska Library Commission in Lincoln from 1986 to 1994, holding down a part-time job at a Lincoln Barnes & Noble bookstore for good measure.

When you love your books, youve just got to do it 24-7, Lawrence said.

On the side, she earned her masters degree in library science from Kansas Emporia State University. After picking it up in 1994, North Platte was first to offer her a job.

Lawrence actually applied for the assistant directors job under predecessor Wilma McFarland, who died of cancer before the hiring process was completed.

City officials asked applicants Are you interested in becoming the director? And I was like, Sure! Lawrence said.

I was young and green when she walked into the library on March 23, 1995. But I felt I had such a good foundation in the library field that I could do it. ...

I had a lot of confidence and was ready to take on the challenge to bring this library into the 21st century.

It started with hooking up those boxed computers so the library could retire its hard-copy card catalog. Todays patrons can access the librarys online catalog on-site and at ci.north-platte.ne.us/library.

The library opened its first Technology Learning Center in 1998, beginning with five computers and expanding to 12 in 2000, Lawrence said.

Two years later, she found herself in the midst of a lengthy local sagas last chapter.

After saying no three times in the 1990s, North Platte Public Schools patrons approved a bond issue in 2000 to build a new high school.

Victory came with a condition: Try to find a new use for NPHS 1930s building, the three-story brick structure on its east end that had first opened in 1933.

Preservation-minded residents proposed moving the library there from the two-story building that replaced the 1912 Carnegie Library in 1967.

But a bond issue for the conversion won only 46% of the vote on May 14, 2002. The 1933 school was torn down.

I knew it was a long shot, Lawrence said. The library would have used only the main floor, but to make it flexible for a public library in the 21st century, youd basically have had to gut it.

She said enthusiasm cooled as it became clear that approval wouldnt have saved the 1933 schools Little Theatre, home to student assemblies, concerts, plays, Miss Nebraska pageants and a Nebraska governors debate in fall 1986.

Even if we could have saved it, I dont think that would have passed the bond issue, Lawrence said.

City officials explored crossing and closing North Vine Street next to the library to build a modern addition atop City Halls parking lot.

But Lincoln County by then was moving toward replacing its aging jail near the library, an effort capped by a successful bond-issue vote in 2008.

The city settled for an indoor facelift, closing the library for a month in December 2007 to repaint, install new carpet, reorganize collections and move the circulation desk to the middle of the first floor.

So we just keep chugging along in this little old building, Lawrence said.

The latest renovation required a two-week May 2018 shutdown to carve out first-floor space for the Creation Station, where patrons can use 3D printers and other software-driven creative equipment.

Donations paid for installing the room and permanent makerspace equipment after it opened with trial machines provided through a Nebraska Library Commission grant.

But the COVID-19 pandemics March 2020 arrival shut the doors, curtailing almost everything except the librarys online services.

North Plattes library was Nebraskas first to resume limited hours, Lawrence said. But even two years later, were just like any business. Were in rebuilding mode.

Ten senior staff members have left over that time, Lawrence said. And shes joining them.

One hundred percent, yes, she said when asked if COVID-19 factored into her retirement. The stress of the past two years probably shortened my career by two or three years.

Continued recovery will be one of Seerys challenges as incoming director, Lawrence said. Society has done a shift in what they do, where they spend their dollars, what they utilize (in library services). Theyre going to go where they feel safe.

On the other hand, its not like Seery wont ever see her longtime mentor.

Lawrence will keep collaborating with longtime library staffer and local historian Kaycee Anderson in writing the librarys ongoing Facebook series on North Platte history.

She wants to try her hand at book-writing, starting with a history of the Nebraskaland Days celebration that began in Lincoln in 1964 and moved permanently to North Platte in 1968.

Theres also lending a hand with the two youngest of the six grandchildren Lawrence shares with husband Bill Kackmeister. She likes to paint and plans to take art classes.

And ...

One of the things I dont have time to do now is read and play in the Creation Station, she said. Im looking forward to getting to do that. And take care of me.
Wellington: New Zealanders in Australia will be able to skip hotel quarantine and enter New Zealand from 11.59pm on Sunday, February 27, NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced.

This will be the first of five stages of gradual border reopening, with Kiwis from all around the world let in two weeks later.

The returning Kiwis will have to be vaccinated and self-isolate  but wont need a space in a government-run managed isolation facility (MIQ).

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern says the February and March dates for opening up are very firm. Credit:Getty

From March 13 New Zealanders from the rest of the world will be able to return under similar conditions, alongside some critical workers, and their families.
TO: James R. Troupis FROM: Kenneth Chesebro DATE: December 9, 2020 RE: Statutory Requirements for December 14 Electoral Votes Here is a summary of the requirements under federal law, and under the law of the six States in controversy, concerning what is required for presidential electors to validly cast and transmit their votes. Obviously, there are party leaders and/or officials in each State who are familiar with the relevant details who would deal with the logistics, most of whom have handled such details in past elections. This memo merely supplies a general overview. It appears that even though none of the Trump-Pence electors are currently certified as having been elected by the voters of their State, most of the electors (with the possible exception of the Nevada electors) will be able to take the essential steps needed to validly cast and transmit their votes, so that the votes might be eligible to be counted if later recognized (by a court, the state legislature, or Congress) as the valid ones that actually count in the presidential election. (On why this could work, see here and here.) And, they can do so without any involvement by the governor or any other state official (except, in some States, where access to the Capitol Building is or might be needed, or where the Governor must approve a substitute elector or, in Nevada, where the Secretary of State is involved). It is important that the Trump-Pence Campaign focus carefully on these details, as soon as possible, if the aim is to ensure that all 79 electoral votes are properly cast and transmitted  each electoral vote being potentially important if the election ultimately extends to, and perhaps past, January 6 in Congress. The National Archives has a very helpful checklist, here. I. FEDERAL LAW The federal-law requirements for the December 14 electors meeting are set out in 3 U.S.C.  6-11 (copy here). ! Under federal law, the Trump-Pence electors must all meet, together, on December 14, at such place in each State as the legislature of such State shall direct. 3 U.S.C.  7. ! In most States there is no requirement that they meet in public. It might be preferable for them to meet in private, if possible, to thwart the ability of protesters to disrupt the event. Witness, via this video, what happened when the Trump-Pence electors met in public in Wisconsin in 2016, even though the Trump- Pence victory had not been contested. Even if held in private, perhaps print and even TV journalists would be invited to attend to cover the event. M E M O R A N D U M
Prices fell dramatically during the pandemic but now used phones can cost more than $1,500.

As trade between North Korea and China begins to reopen, demand for illegal Chinese cellular phones is skyrocketing in areas near the Yalu River border, sources there told RFA.

Mobile phones that are sold legally in North Korea cannot make international calls, creating a huge market for phones that can get a signal from Chinese cell towers on the other side of the border.

The phones were particularly popular with people who made their living by importing Chinese goods. But demand dropped precipitously when the border closed and trade stopped in January 2020 as a prevention against COVIDs spread.

Now that rail freight between the two countries has resumed, the Chinese phones are once again hot-ticket items in Sinuiju, a North Korean city that lies across the Yalu River from Chinas Dandong.

No new Chinese mobile phones have come in since the start of the pandemic, a resident of Sinuiju told RFAs Korean Service on Jan. 29.

There is suddenly a large market for older mobile phones that were imported before the pandemic. Depending on the year of release and how well the phone works, prices can range from 4,000 to 10,000 yuan [U.S. $630-$1,570], said the source, who requested anonymity for security reasons.

With fewer people trying to call China over the past two years, Chinese phones could be bought relatively cheaply up until the end of 2021, the source said.

Even phones on sale for less than $300 on the black market did not sell, he said. But when news spread that trade between our two countries would soon resume, traders and smugglers were now looking to get their hands on a Chinese phone, so now the price for the cheapest used one is more than like $650, he said.

The steep price increase was jarring for a trader who visited Sinuiju from South Pyongan, the next province to the south.

Demand for illegal Chinese phones shot up. Things had been quiet for a long while in the Sinuiju area, the trader said on condition of anonymity.

The crackdown on these illegal phones has not been relaxed at all, but so many people are looking for them because freight trade has resumed, she said. The source confirmed the approximate price range as quoted by the first source.

South Korean phones that work on the Chinese towers are also available, the business traveler from South Pyongan said, but prices are even higher, ranging from $1,700 to $3,000.

If they find a South Korean mobile phone in a crackdown, people may be subject for severe punishment, because they are using South Korean products. Traders and smugglers, though, prefer the South Korean phones over the Chinese ones because they have various additional functions and better call quality, she said.

Telephone brokers are starting to resume their business. They have several Chinese mobile phones and North Korean escapees contact them from abroad to get in touch with their families still living here, and they act as go-betweens when the escapees wire money to their families, she said.

The resumption of trade between North Korea and China cant come faster for North Koreans who have struggled under their countrys dire economic circumstances over the past two years, the trader said.

Once trade is normalized the lives of the people will get better. Trade in smuggled black-market goods will increase and people will be able to receive overseas wire transfers thanks to these illegal mobile phones. People are eagerly awaiting, she said.

While the exact number of illegal phone users in North Korea is unknown, the Database Center for North Korean Human Rights, which interviewed 414 North Koreans in the South, reported that 47% of them were in constant contact with their families in the North in 2018. Of those, about 93% said they called their families on the phone.

In the same survey, 62% said they had sent money to North Korea. Based on their answers, the center estimated that refugees in the South send about 2.7 million South Korean won (U.S. $2,260) back home about twice per year.

According to South Koreas Ministry of Unification, about 33,000 North Koreans have settled in South Korea since 1998.

Translated by Claire Lee and Leejin Jun. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
Earth NASA

A new study led by University of Wisconsin Oshkosh geologist Timothy Paulsen and Michigan Tech geologist Chad Deering advances the understanding of the role that continents have played in the chemical evolution of Earths oceans, with implications for understanding atmospheric oxygenation and global climate oscillations.

The team of researchers analyzed a global database of the chemistry of tiny zircon grains commonly found in the Earths continental rock record. The research team includes other scientists from Michigan Technological University and ETH Zurich in Switzerland.

The study was featured on the cover of the February issue of GSA Today by the Geological Society of America, which highlights timely, innovative articles that appeal to a broad geoscience audience.

Oceans cover 70% of Earths surface, setting it apart from the other terrestrial planets in the solar system, said Paulsen, the lead author on the paper. Geologists have long recognized that there have been profound changes in ocean chemistry over time.

Yet there are significant questions about the drivers for changes in ocean chemistry in Earths past, especially associated with the ancient rock record leading up to the Cambrian explosion of life approximately 540 million years ago.

Continents tend to be worn down by weathering and rivers tend to transport this sediment to the oceans leaving scattered puzzle pieces for geologists to fit together, said Deering, a coauthor on the paper. There is increasing evidence that important pieces of the puzzle are found in the ancient beach and river sediments produced through continental weathering and erosion.

The researchers findings, based on an analysis of an exceptionally large zircon data set from sandstones recovered from Earths major continental landmasses, may signify key links in the evolution of the Earths rock cycle and its oceans.

Our results suggest that two major increases in continental input from rivers draining the continents were related to the break-up and dispersal of continents, which caused increased weathering and erosion of a higher proportion of radiogenic rocks and high-elevation continental crust, Paulsen said.

Both episodes are curiously associated with snowball Earth glaciations and associated steps in oxygenation of the atmosphere-ocean system. Geologists have long recognized that oceans are required to make continents. It would appear based on our analyses that the continents, in turn, shape the Earths oceans, atmosphere and climate.

Continental Magmatism and Uplift as the Primary Driver for First-Order Oceanic 87Sr/86Sr Variability with Implications for Global Climate and Atmospheric Oxygenation
If you've become lost in the woods, what should you do? If youve taken hunter education, or any outdoor training, you know what to do. STOP: Sit. Think. Observe. Plan.

That is what Montana hunters want the Fish and Wildlife Commission to do at their meeting Feb. 4 on elk season setting. Just STOP. The public process to date has been unclear, the proposed solutions do not match any stated goal, and everyone is exhausted from the chaos.

Last summer the FWP director embarked on a series of public listening sessions with the stated goal of hearing from Montana hunters and anglers. His decision at the end of that process was to push a set of very unpopular proposals that drastically change elk hunting in Montana for the worse. It's as though he didn't listen at all.

Fortunately, elk hunters pushed back. Hard. They spoke up so strongly against that proposal that the commission told the director that they would not be voting in support.

Unfortunately, the director came right back with a brand-new set of elk management proposals that no one had asked for. Hunters who showed up to try to stop the first set of bad proposals got whiplash from a different set of bad proposals. Public comment and the commission vote on elk regulations were delayed until Feb. 4.

Please join me in asking the commission to once again resist these extreme proposals. Just STOP. Default to the existing elk hunting guidelines. Sit and think about how to chart a future for elk hunting that protects Montanans hunting heritage. Observe what Montana hunters are saying. Plan for responsible management of this treasured resource that doesnt sell our elk to the highest bidder.

Montanas elk management plan is nearly 18 years old. Instead of rushing blind into far-reaching changes, FWP should focus on getting stakeholders together and honestly identifying problems. FWP will never come up with collaborative solutions if it doesnt listen to the Montanans who will feel the biggest impacts from their decisions. Weve been hearing different proposals for privatizing wildlife from FWP, but were not hearing a well-considered set of goals and strategies.

FWP and the seven appointed commissioners are entrusted with a valuable resource: our wildlife. They hold the future of Montanas hunting heritage in their hands. The director and the commission must remember that they work for resident Montana hunters, not nonresident, wealthy landowners. Wildlife belongs to all Montanans and Montana hunters have spoken loudly, clearly, and in unison to reject these proposals. Its time to STOP.

State Rep. Marilyn Marler, D-Missoula, represents HD90.
02.02.2022 LISTEN

South Africa will this year continue with concerted efforts to attract new investments into the country to help revive the economy and boost socio-economic development.

One of the major events is the fourth South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) to be hosted in Johannesburg on 24 March 2022, which forms part of our investment drive to attract R1.2 trillion over five years.

This ambitious investment initiative began in 2018 and has already attracted R770 billion in commitments across a wide range of economic sectors. Government has placed investments at the heart of its efforts to achieve its national goal of economic reconstruction and recovery.

New investments stimulate economic activity in South Africa and also hold enormous benefits for Southern Africa as a whole. The country is an economic hub and gateway into Africa for various markets and business opportunities, including attracting potential investors and tourists alike.

Many multinationals investing in South Africa also use the country as a base to serve their customers in Africa and in particular the southern region. As a relatively stable country with a technologically advanced telecommunications network and a secure banking system, South Africa provides support to these global companies so that they can take advantage of opportunities in the country and the region.

South Africas regional partnerships include participation in the Southern African Development Community, the Southern African Customs Union and the new African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The AfCFTA makes trade between African countries easier by providing new export opportunities for Southern African products and services to member countries which trade with each other without tariffs or other hindrances.

South Africa is already working with a number of neighbouring countries to grow business, trade and investment. This regional partnership provides a gateway for potential foreign and intra-African investments in the continent.

The country continues to relax cross-border financial regulations and tax requirements to enable local businesses to expand into Africa to support continental growth. Similar support measures apply to foreign companies which use South Africa as their regional headquarters to invest in African countries.

Since South Africas future is intrinsically linked to that of the continent, the country continues to play an integral role in Africas advancement and remains dedicated to Africas prosperity.

Recent investments in South Africa which hold enormous benefits for the region and the rest of the continent include the multibillion-rand investment by US-based health technology company NantWorks in a new vaccine manufacturing facility in Cape Town.

The state-of-the-art facility places Africa at the forefront of genome research and is expected to produce a billion doses of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) vaccine a year by 2025 for the continent. The investment also supports African scientists expanding genomic sequencing in their home countries through the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovations Genomics Africa Fellowship Africa Program.

Other investments include Toyota South Africas expansion of its production line to produce South Africas first locally made hybrid car. This investment was the result of a R2.4-billion commitment made by the company at the second SAIC in 2019. It has already created 575 new jobs at the plant and a further 1 200 new jobs have been created in supplier companies.

Aspen Pharmacare also launched its R3.4-billion expansion, which it announced at the first SAIC in 2018, turning its manufacturing facility into one of the largest global manufacturing hubs for general anesthetics. The facility, which has been upgraded with high-technology equipment and manufacturing systems, has the infrastructure to produce over 100 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine.

Despite the most challenging economic environment in the past two years owing to COVID-19, investments in the country have been able to bolster the energy, telecommunications, water and ports and rail sectors. By lowering the cost of doing business in South Africa and encouraging greater private investment in infrastructure development, the government aims to advance the countrys transformation and deliberately pursue its developmental agenda.

Progress has also been noted in the establishment of 13 special economic zones across the country. They provide investors with targeted investment incentives, preferential tax rates and export support, as well as an attractive manufacturing base for companies seeking to supply both local and international markets.

As the most diversified economy in the continent, South Africa remains committed to playing an integral role in the regions industrialisation, particularly to aid its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. It is indisputable that a thriving regional economy after the pandemic holds the aspirations and dreams of all citizens. Countries in the region have the potential and resilience to emerge stronger by mobilising industrial sectors to rebuild their respective economies.

Meanwhile, South Africa cordially invites all potential investors from the region to participate in the upcoming fourth SAIC as we partner in a collaborative approach to build a stronger local and regional economy.

By Phumla Williams, Deputy Director-General, South African Government Communication and Information System
NBK Capital Partners Mezzanine Fund II announced that it has closed a $10m (R153m) financing facility with Uber's exclusive vehicle supply partner in Africa, the mobility fintech Moove. This marks the sixth investment from the Fund advised by NBK Capital Partners.

Moove co-founders Jide Odunsi and Ladi Delano | image supplied

The growth facility from the Fund will support Mooves expansion in West Africa initially, executives said. Moove is the first investment in Africa by NBK Capital Partners funds, underscoring the opportunity for a platform like Moove to address the continents vehicle financing gap.

Founded in 2019 by Ladi Delano and Jide Odunsi, Moove is an African mobility fintech that is democratising vehicle ownership by providing revenue-based vehicle financing to mobility entrepreneurs across Africa.

The two co-founders are British-born Nigerians, educated at the London School of Economics, Oxford University and MIT, who have successfully built three other businesses on the continent prior to founding Moove.

We are very excited to partner with Moove on its journey to transform access to credit for millions of people across the African continent, said Yaser Moustafa, CEO of NBK Capital Partners.

The company is driven by strong founders who possess a unique, long-term vision for success, one built on the empowerment of individuals from every socioeconomic class across the region but also a genuine commitment to social and environmental sustainability.

NBK Capital Partners Mezzanine Funds financing comes at a fantastic time for our company and is intelligently structured for our use case, said Ladi Delano, co-founder and CEO, Moove.

This investment brings our total funding raised to date to $78m and will fuel our continued growth trajectory as we expand our regional operations to empower more mobility entrepreneurs. We are grateful to be working with a firm that supports our vision to build the first mobility fintech for Africa markets, tackling the problem of lack of access to credit for millions.

Jide Odunsi, co-founder and CEO, Moove, commented: Using our alternative credit-scoring technology and revenue-based model, Moove is empowering more women to access financing and become mobility entrepreneurs.

Were committed to ensuring that at least 50% of our customers are female, providing them with the tools, services, and flexibility they need to be productive and successful when previously they have been excluded from more formal means of employment.

Executives added, through year-end December 2021, more than two million trips have been made in Moove-financed vehicles since it launched operations in 2020.

Sikander Ahmed, managing director and Head of Private Credit at NBK Capital Partners said:

We are proud to support Mooves management at such a vital time in the companys expansion. We believe our flexible financing solutions are the reason why an increasing number of rapidly growing companies have come to rely on us for proven solutions to the many complex financial situations in which they find themselves.
New York, NY, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (TradeInvestNow.com/New York/Feb.2) Crypto Insider Summit is scheduled to take place on February 8 when - for the first time ever  bitcoin pioneer Charlie Shrem is going to tap his network of crypto millionaires and insiders to show you how to prepare for Phase 3 of the crypto revolution.

Tune in on February 8th at 7 p.m. for Crypto Insider Summit with Charlie Shrem to hear everything you need to know about the next phase of cryptocurrencies revolution.

Charlie Shrem's Crypto Insider Summit - What Is All About?

Have you heard about the radical change that is happening right now in the crypto currency world?

It is expected to change completely the way we use digital currencies. Crypto insiders believe that this new crypto technology will transform our life.

That's why the team at InvestorPlace booked one of the most connected cryptocurrency millionaires on the planet for an exclusive event: the Crypto Insider Summit.

His name is Charlie Shrem, and hes been a key player in the elite crypto insider circle since 2011.

Hes on a first-name basis with the creators of every major cryptocurrency

And he has a shocking prediction about a new technology developing in the hidden underbelly of the crypto world.

He calls this new tech Phase 3 of the crypto revolution

And he claims it could create more millionaires than bitcoin, Ethereum and the entire altcoin market combined

What youll learn in the Crypto Insider Summit with Charlie Shrem?

During this Crypto Insider Summit, Charlie Shrem will give direct access to his network of crypto millionaires and insiders. You will be able to witness what is happening behind the scenes of the crypto Universe.

When you join Charlie Shrem on Tuesday, February 8, at 7 p.m. ET, hell also:

Explain what he believes is the biggest blockchain breakthrough since the invention of bitcoin.

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Give you his #1 pick for 2022, which he predicts could soar over 15,000%.

If you have any interest in scoring huge gains in the crypto markets, youre not going to want to miss this rare opportunity to hear directly from one of bitcoins earliest innovators and get the inside scoop from his connections inside the industry.

Crypto Insider Summit with Charlie Shrem - Claim Your Spot Here

Here are few words about Charlie Shrem...

Who Is Charlie Shrem?

Charlie Shrem is one of prominent millionaires who made their fortune off cryptocurrencies. He is considered Bitcoin legend and one of the most influential people in the world of cryptocurrencies.

At the beginning of the crypto era back in 2011 he co-founded one of the first bitcoin exchanges, which became massive success. At that time, BitInstant was processing nearly a third of all Bitcoin transactions.

Shrem was one of the founding members of the Bitcoin Foundation, non-profit organization founded in 2012 with a mission to standardize and promote Bitcoin. He served as a Vice Chairman until his resignation January 2014.

In recent years Charlie has launched and managed numerous business ventures. In 2019, Shrem started podcast called Untold Stories which offers a deep dive into the narratives and untold details in the world of crypto.

Charlie Shrem maintains an active media and internet presence. His story has been featured in books and Netflix documentaries. On February 8th Charlie Shrem will bring his cryptocurrency knowledge and recommendations to help investors navigate in their crypto journey to reach their goals.

About InvestorPlace

InvestorPlace is one of Americas largest, longest-standing independent financial research firms.

InvestorPlace operates a web portal that offers financial advisory services.

The Company offers stock market, mutual fund, options, foreign exchange, and investment advisory information. InvestorPlace also provides financial news, investor education, and market research services in the United States.

Email: editor@investorplace.com

Mailing Address: 1125 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201

How to sign up for Charlie Shrem's Crypto Insider Summit?

To get access to Crypto Insider Summit with Charlie Shrem, all individuals have to do is enter their respective emails here. Upon entering, those residing in the U.S. (or have a U.S.-based phone number) will also be presented with the chance of becoming VIPs.

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Attachment
Launched on Tuesday, 1 February, the Property Practitioners Act 2019 (PPA) effectively repeals the old Estate Agency Affairs Act 1976 (EAA Act), aims to protect the interests of consumers, provides for the transformation of the property market and aims to facilitate property ownership to more South Africans through structured interventions.

Kagiso Mahlangu, real estate lawyer and conveyancer at CMS South Africa

The Act, for example, directs the Property Sector Transformation Fund to allocate and make available no more than 75% of the grants received annually towards the development, promotion, and support of historically disadvantaged property practitioners. The fund is also tasked, among other things, with the responsibility to facilitate ownership in property investment by historically disadvantaged individuals.

Monitoring estate agency matters

The Act is geared to address the deficiencies in monitoring estate agency matters. It, therefore, makes it unlawful for a property practitioner to obligate or encourage a consumer to use a particular service provider, such as a specified attorney or conveyancer.

There are some exemptions, however, which affect particular areas of the industry. This is according to Kagiso Mahlangu, real estate lawyer and conveyancer at CMS South Africa, who says: For example, any person may apply to the Board of Authority to be exempted from any provision of the PPA by submitting an explanation of the reasons for the application accompanied by the supporting documents.

In examining such applications, the board may consider whether the granting of an exemption is likely to negatively impact the general public, consumers rights, competition in the property sector, or the objects of the Act, amongst other things, adds Mahlangu.

Some of the differences between the PPA and the EAA Act include the fact that the PPA is regulated by the Board of Authority, unlike the EAA which was regulated by the Estate Agency Affairs Board of South Africa.

Range of professionals subject to the Act

Nomaswazi Nkabinde, candidate attorney at CMS South Africa

Nomaswazi Nkabinde, candidate attorney at CMS South Africa, adds that the new law expands the range of professionals subject to the Act: This now includes candidate property practitioners, property practitioners, principal property practitioners, sales and rental agents, auctioneers, business brokers, property managers, providers of bridging finance, bond brokers (excluding financial institutions), and property developers.

The PPA covers trusts that perform the work of property practitioners and, for the purposes of certain sections of the Act, the definition includes a director of a company or member of a close corporation in the business of property practitioners, etc. It is important also to note that the Act does not apply to persons selling their own properties, the Sheriff of the Court, and attorneys and candidate attorneys who are allowed to perform property practitioner activities without registering with the authority if operating in the name of, from the premises of and in the course of the law firm only, e.g., the sale of property as part of a deceased estate or during litigation, says Nkabinde.

Additional regulatory measures brought about by the PPA

The PPA tightens the regulations around Fidelity Fund Certificates beyond the current requirements. Conveyancers are therefore prohibited from paying any commission to a property practitioner without receiving a certified copy of a Fidelity Fund Certificate valid during the period or on the date of the transaction to which such payment relates and on the date of such payment.

The Act further provides that the government must use the services of property practitioners who comply with broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) and the employment equity legislation.

On property practitioners

The Act further details that property practitioners receiving funds from property transactions will be required to utilise a trust account and keep the accounting records separately (which must be audited) for a period of five years. A property practitioner whose turnover is below R2.5m will be exempted but should still employ the services of a registered accountant to independently review the account.

Property owners and disclosures

Unlike the old Act, which did not mandate disclosures on the side of property owners, the new Act requires owners to complete the property defects disclosure form prior to the property practitioner accepting a mandate, which shall form part of the property sale/lease agreement and thus be signed by all relevant parties when concluding such an agreement. Both the owners and the potential buyers of the property may obtain professional advice/inspection of the property.

Code of Conduct

Lastly, the PPA declares that every property practitioner must comply with the prescribed Code of Conduct published at the time by the minister of human settlements. A property practitioner must, on request, provide a consumer with a copy of the Code of Conduct. And, any person found to be in contravention of the PPA may be fined, required to repay any fees received for a property transaction, or face imprisonment for a period not exceeding 10 years.

The PPA is significantly stricter and more comprehensive than the EAA Act. In light of the serious consequences of non-compliance with the Act, any person who may fall within the ambit of the definition of property practitioner would be advised to seek guidance from a legal practitioner and ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Act, Mahlangu concludes.
Rajya Sabha has been adjourned till tomorrow while the Lok Sabha resumed at 4 pm. The two Houses are keeping separate timings to ensure social distancing on account of Covid guidelines. Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to move a motion of thanks on the President's Address on January 31 today. Stay tuned for live updates
New Delhi: Congress Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi has been accused of insulting the country's judiciary while speaking in the ongoing budget session of Parliament. He said the judiciary, the Election Commission and Pegasus  these are the means that PM Narendra Modi's government used to suppress the voice of the people. To which, Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju has condemned Rahul's statement. He said that not only as the law minister of the country but also as an ordinary Indian citizen, he condemns Rahul Gandhi's words about the judiciary and the EC.

Rijiju said the judiciary and the Election Commission are important institutions of our democracy. He said Rahul Gandhi should apologise to the judiciary and the EC for his statement. At the same time, Rahul Gandhi also tried to corner the Modi government on the issue of China and Pakistan, after which Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar apprised him of the facts. Jaishankar said that, in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi has alleged that the central government has brought China and Pakistan closer. Perhaps, he needs to read the history text in order. ''In 1963, Pakistan illegally surrendered the Shakhsgam Valley to China. At the same time, the Karakoram Highway was constructed by China in the 1970s through 'Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK).' Since then, these two countries had also formed an alliance in the nuclear field.''

S Jaishankar reminded Rahul Gandhi of how the 'China-Pakistan Economic Corridor' started in 2013. At that time, there was a UPA-II government at the Centre under the leadership of Manmohan Singh. He asked Rahul Gandhi that you ask yourself the question of whether China and Pakistan were far away from each other at that time. At the same time, Rahul Gandhi also alleged that India could not bring even a foreign guest on this Republic Day. To which S Jaishankar replied that the five Presidents of central Asian countries who were to come had joined India in a virtual summit on January 27. Jaishankar asked whether Rahul Gandhi missed this too?

Uproar over Muslim University, CM Dhami and Harish Rawat came face to face

Owaisi's MPs protest against Maharashtra govt's new liquor policy

Arvind Kejriwal's big announcement - these farmers will get compensation soon
With surges of COVID-19 cases following discovery and spread of the Omicron variant, staff shortages have been seen everywhere from bars and restaurants to pet daycares and schools.

Some South Dakota schools have plans in place in case teachers are out sick, while others have sent reminders to families this week that they should keep taking COVID-19 precautions.

There are more than 3,000 active COVID-19 cases among those ages 0-19, according to the South Dakota Department of Health. And thats not counting teachers and staff in schools.

More: South Dakota reports its highest active COVID case count since pandemic started

South Dakota also surpassed another daily record number for active cases Thursday, with 2,584 new case infections bringing the overall active case count to 24,796, according to state data.

It's the third day in a row the state has surpassed its previous record as the omicron variant continues to spread throughout the nation.

Wednesday, the state reported 22,743 active cases. The previous high was 20,475 Tuesday and 19,240, which was reported by the department on Nov. 18, 2020.

Both Sioux Falls and Dell Rapids schools have sent out reminders to families updating them of new CDC guidance for isolation and quarantine, which specify that those positive for COVID-19 need only isolate for five days and wear a mask through day 10 of their illness.

Those continuing to have a fever or other symptoms after five days of isolation should wait to end isolation until they're fever-free for 24 hours without the use of medication, and their other symptoms have improved.

In Tea Area schools, Superintendent Jennifer Lowery emailed the district last weekend asking people to please consider wearing masks if theyre able and willing. Masks are recommended there but not required, and required on buses.

Lowery warned the district is on the edge of moving to yellow status, which means masking would be required.

Staffing is also becoming a problem there as schools see an accelerated rise in cases of COVID-19, influenza and the stomach bug, Lowery wrote to families.

Story continues

'We're managing'

In Lennox School District, Superintendent Chad Conaway said cases are up in the district, but were managing. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated staff have contracted COVID-19 there, he said.

I believe if we stay faithful to our plan, well make our way through this round of the new Omicron variant, Conaway said early in the week.

Masks remain optional in Lennox schools, but the districts plan includes requiring masks for close contacts who have a positive case within their household, and requiring masks for all people within a school building if the buildings cases hit 5% of the buildings population.

More: Omicron variant straining hospital capacity, COVID testing capabilities in Sioux Falls

'No two years are the same'

In Sioux Falls, schools have plans in place to make sure classrooms are covered if staff are out sick, spokeswoman DeeAnn Konrad said. If an opening isnt filled by a substitute teacher, plans may involve the use of existing staff from that school or the district.

Every year, school districts deal with periods of increased illness and no two years are the same due to many viruses that may travel through communities, Konrad said. We'll continue to support our schools to keep the regular school day routines on track.

The districts Continue to Learn plan, designed to help the district navigate the ongoing pandemic, encourages the use of masks for those who arent vaccinated, including pre-kindergarten students for whom the vaccine isnt yet available.

Slight uptick in cases

In the Tri-Valley School District, Superintendent Mike Lodmel said only one staff member is out sick that hes aware of.

Obviously, with COVID-19, everything is fluid and adjustments have to be made in a short time, Lodmel said. I will say that although we are seeing a slight uptick in COVID-19 cases after the break, it is still quite small in comparison to what we witnessed last school year.

Other districts did not respond to requests for comment from the Argus Leader, such as how theyll handle staffing going forward. Those include Brandon Valley, where masks remain optional; West Central, where people may choose to wear a mask; Baltic, where masks are voluntary; and Dell Rapids, where masks are recommended for unvaccinated people.

Officials in Harrisburg School District, the state's fastest growing district, did not respond to requests for comment, but closed campuses Friday because of "staffing issues, a shortage of substitutes, and approaching adverse winter weather," a statement sent to families Thursday night read.

"The district has been experiencing a shortage of substitutes," the statement read. "We would encourage anyone interested in subbing to contact the district office."

The statement did not directly state COVID-19 cases rising as an issue, but masks remain strongly recommended there. And there were more than 100 active COVID-19 cases across the schools as of Thursday evening, according to the COVID-19 tracker on the districts website.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: South Dakota schools 'managing' as COVID cases spike with omicron
DHAKA, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Bangladeshi government has announced to extend the closure of the educational institutions till Feb. 20 in an effort to halt the spread of COVID-19.

"We've decided to keep schools and other educational institutions closed until Feb. 20," Bangladeshi Education Minister Dipu Moni told journalists Wednesday after the country's National Technical Advisory Committee on COVID-19 has advised keeping educational institutions closed for a few more days.

If the situation improves, she said, they will consider reopening educational institutions later.

Earlier, the Bangladeshi Cabinet Division said schools, colleges and equivalent educational institutions will remain closed until Feb. 6.

The minister, however, said online academic activities of all schools and colleges will continue as usual.

Since March 2020, the virus has spread to every Bangladeshi district, and the total number of cases has risen to 1,824,180 with 12,193 new infections on Wednesday.

The country also reported 36 new deaths, taking the death toll to 28,461.

A total of 4,203 people recovered on Wednesday, bringing the total number of recoveries to 1,575,137, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) data showed.

The Bangladeshi authorities have already launched booster shots and started imposing stringent rules to combat the fresh spike in COVID-19 infections, as well as the Omicron variant.

Also, the Bangladeshi government has recently started a special campaign to bring "marginal people" under vaccination, which allows people to get vaccinated without registration at mobile vaccination clinics. 
London [UK], February 3 (ANI): UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (local time) warned Russian President Vladimir Putin against the invasion of Ukraine and said it would be a "tragic miscalculation."

Johnson issued the warning during a phone call with Putin. He told the Russian President that he is deeply concerned about the 100,000 soldiers massed at Ukraine's border, reported NHK World.

Also Read | Qatar, Taliban Agree on Direct Flights Between Kabul and Doha.

British officials released a statement saying the leaders agreed that aggravation was in no one's interest.

Johnson also stressed that Ukraine had every right to apply to join the "defensive alliance" of NATO if it wished and that Kyiv should be included in any talks over the standoff with Russia.

Also Read | Joe Biden Holds Telephonic Conversation With Emmanuel Macron, Discusses Russias Continued Military Build-up on Ukraines Borders.

He visited Kyiv on Tuesday, warning after talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky that Russian forces massed on the border represented a "clear and present danger" to Ukraine, reported Al Jazeera.

Meanwhile, Russian officials released their own statement, saying NATO's response to their concerns has been inadequate.

Putin has been calling for NATO troops to withdraw from eastern Europe and wants guarantees that Ukraine will never be allowed to join the bloc, reported NHK World.

Putin said members of the alliance are hiding behind their open-door policy. He said that contradicts their own commitments to shared security.

Tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine have been building for weeks, with the West accusing Moscow of preparing an imminent invasion of its pro-Western neighbour.

Russia has denied any plans to invade but is demanding that Ukraine never be allowed to join NATO and a series of other security guarantees against the US-led military alliance's expansion in the ex-Soviet bloc. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
South Africa's first round of load shedding for 2022 is here and with Eskom's continuous woes, the national power grid is likely to be under strain for years to come. A growing number of South African homeowners and business leaders are thus looking at ways to become more independent, however many are uncertain about what going off-grid really means, what it costs and where to start.

Source: Supplied

Christiaan Hattingh, managing director of AWPower, answers some of the most common questions he gets when load shedding commences.

1. I want to take my home or business off the municipal electricity grid. What do I need to achieve my goal?

Many people start out their investigation of the possibility of investing in solar power with the dream of taking their building completely off the Eskom or municipal power grid. However, achieving complete grid independence and a zero municipal electricity bill is prohibitively expensive for most businesses and households.

The reality is that without a connection to the grid, you will need to make large investments in batteries and generators to provide power at night or during winter. You will need to oversize battery capacity and the solar panel installation to ensure you have enough power during extended times of low solar generation. In addition, it is advisable to have generators available in case the solar system fails.

2. So, what are my first steps towards becoming more independent from the grid?

For most homes and businesses, a grid-connected system will be much more cost-effective and lower in maintenance than an off-grid system. We recommend a solar hybrid system as a great way to save on your monthly electrical bill while also safeguarding your home or business against loadshedding. The main components of such a system are:

Batteries to keep your essential power loads running when the grid is down;



Solar panels to generate your own power; and



A hybrid inverter to manage the energy flow between the solar panels, batteries and essential electrical loads.

A solar hybrid system can be installed in modular steps and scaled up to give you more independence from the grid over the years.

Depending on your needs and budget, you can start with the hybrid inverter and batteries and add solar panels later, or vice versa. Starting with the solar panels enables you to start saving money on power immediately, while starting with the batteries gives you energy security during loadshedding.

3. How will reducing my dependence on Eskom or my municipality affect my electricity bill?

Installing solar panels and using the power they generate will enable you to start harvesting immediate savings on your monthly bill. A typical household system (5kW inverter, 4kWp of panels and 10kWh of battery) will generate roughly 600kWh average per month, enabling you to save R1,500 per month on a R2,000 electricity bill, paying for itself within seven years. The more panels you install, the quicker the payback period will be. Batteries are a large capital expense and they do not generate direct cost-savings, but adequately sized batteries are required to reach full system performance. This is because not all energy usage will be during daylight hours.

4. When is going off-grid a real option?

Complete grid independence isnt financially viable or attractive for most suburban or city households and businesses. However, it might be an option for you if you live in a remote area with poor or unreliable grid coverage.

You will need to have a spacious property to accommodate the oversized solar panels and batteries you will require to power your entire household. You will also need to make a large capital investment to achieve full grid independence  so you may have to take a substantial loan if you dont have cash on hand.

5. Can I use my solar installation to power my electric vehicle (EV)?

Yes, you can and should, for reasons of sustainability and affordability. Using solar PV to charge your EV will vastly reduce your total well-to-wheel emissions, compared to using Eskoms coal-fired power. When charging your EV from solar PV-generated power at home or the office, you can reduce your direct running cost of the EV to almost nothing.

6. How will a solar installation affect the value of my home?

A solar installation will certainly be an increasingly attractive feature for property buyers in the years to come, although the value it could add to your home depends on several factors. These include where your property is located, the type of installation you have put in place, and the impact of the installation on the monthly electricity bill.

A high-quality installation with a long warranty will be more attractive to a buyer than a poorly specced system with low-quality components. Its wise to get professional advice to avoid overcapitalising if increasing the value of your home is a primary consideration.
Asian nations have greenlit a plan to produce a joint system to battle against the use of counterfeit and stolen mobile phones, and accelerate other future technologies.

India Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan and Myanmar Ministry of Transport and Communications Admiral Tin Aung San co-chaired the second annual ASEAN (Association of South-East Asian Nations) Digital Ministers (ADGMIN) meeting.

During which ministers approved the 2022 ASEAN-India Digital Work Plan, a structure to accelerate a variety of technologies earmarked to improve society.

As well as combating the use of stolen and counterfeit mobile handsets, the nations will work to improve public WiFi access networks, capacity building and knowledge sharing in emerging areas in the fields such as the Internet of Things, 5G and Advanced Satellite.

The meeting discussed and deliberated various matters relevant to strengthening regional digital cooperation in the spirit of digital inclusion and integration.

Digital ministers also called for more collaboration with the private sector in order to develop quality digital infrastructure and innovations, to spur sustainable growth in Asia

Countries committing to the work plan included: Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

In the virtual meeting, Chauhan emphasised that Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) enable and strengthen democratic systems and institutions through enhanced engagement between citizens and the state.

He said that the use of ICTs promotes free speech, human rights, and the free flow of information besides broadening citizens' opportunities to participate in the decision-making process and has the potential to transform the lives of people living in rural areas.
In efforts to contribute to South Africa's Covid-19 response strategy, the providers of the Agility and Resilience course have entered into a partnership with Innovator Trust. The objective of this partnership is to mitigate and adapt to the impact and consequences of Covid-19. It is necessary to form such partnerships as the scale of the impact of Covid-19 on businesses calls for a multi-organisational response. The parties to this partnership are socially responsible organisations that have demonstrated commitment to socio-economic development.

Professor Thuli Madonsela

Resilience and Agility Nation Building Initiative

The Corona Virus has thrown individuals, families, organisations and countries into unprecedented levels of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambivalence (VUCA) and consequent disruption, says former Public Protector SA and Social Justice Chair, Stellenbosch Prof Thuli Madonsela. Individuals, families and companies are called upon to thrive while mental health is challenged in an exponentially changing environment with concomitant extreme uncertainty. Personal, family and organisational resilience is important for the entire ecosystems within which businesses operate.

The key to transcending exponential and operational landscape changes and heightened uncertainty challenges lies in the ability to respond to adversity in an agile and resilient fashion, bouncing back speedily and having the grit to stay the course.

Tashline Jooste, CEO of the Innovator Trust

The series brings together women in the ICT space to foster a culture of peer-peer networking, access to industry experts and business leadership skills over a 2-day leadership training experience. We have been privy to the sheer desperation and unprecedented chaos and disruption that South African SMMEs have had to experience over the last two years and what is clear to us, now more than ever, is the need to not back down but rather to ramp up the support for small businesses, said Tashline Jooste, CEO of the Innovator Trust. Within the field of technology, women are still a particularly marginalised group and so as the rest of the world collectively begins to grapple with life and business under a pandemic, the Innovator Trust remains resolute in our cause to do all we can to nurture the growth of SMMEs, so that we not only ensure survival but serve as a catalyst for growth and thriving in this new normal."

The Epic Women Entrepreneur's Leadership Series, which will take place over 7 and 8 February 2022 in Cape Town, Western Cape, has been curated specifically for female beneficiaries of the Innovator Trusts incubation programmes. As part of the series, female beneficiaries of the Afrika Tikkun organisation will also be participating.




TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan is considering a two-week extension of infection controls in 13 regions, including its capital Tokyo, to rein in a record surge of COVID-19 infections, the Fuji News Network said on Thursday.

Officials may decide next week to extend the measures originally set to expire on Feb. 13, the broadcaster added.

Tokyo raised its coronavirus alert to the highest level on Thursday, after reporting a record 21,576 infections the previous day, when the nationwide tally reached a record 94,815, driven by the infectious Omicron variant.

(Reporting by Rocky Swift)
In 2022 the Columbiana County Dairy Boosters will be offering one additional scholarship. This scholarship has been made possible from the memorial contributions from the friends and family of Paul Arter and Glen Herron. The winner will be the top placing scholarship applicant among all Col. Co. Dairy Booster scholarship applicants.

One to two scholarships will be awarded for Columbiana County Dairy Industry family members attending an institution of higher learning depending on the number of applications received. Scholarships are to be applied toward tuition, books, housing, etc. The scholarship amount is $1000.00. To be eligible, the applicant must be a member of a Columbiana County family whose primary occupation is directly involved in the Dairy Industry, including but not limited to Dairy Cattle Milk Production, Dairy Cattle Heifer Raising, and Dairy Equipment/Supplies/Supplement Sales (providing Dairy is the primary focus of Sales). Student must prove enrollment, or submit a letter of admission, to a two- or four- year institution of higher learning or graduate school. Those applying are not required to limit their educational choice to an agricultural related field. Student must be considered a full-time student. Applicant must maintain at least a B or 3.0 grade point average. Previous scholarship receiptants may not reapply.

Notices of the scholarship will be sent to all Columbiana County High Schools, placed in the Columbiana County Buckeye Dairy Booster newsletter, and all local newspapers. Scholarship forms may be obtained from:

Columbiana County Buckeye Dairy Boosters

C/O Pam Herron

3836 Woodsdale Rd.

Salem, Ohio 44460

Phone: 330-222-1637

Email: jayherron@frontier.com

The student must return a completed application, letter of admission and include two (2) letters of reference. Also each application must include an official high school or college transcript for the applicant.

Application Due Date: All applications must be postmarked by Saturday, March 12, 2022. Any application not fulfilling these requirements will not be considered for the award.

Judging: The decision of a committee of judges appointed by the Columbiana County Buckeye Dairy Boosters will be final. The committee will judge the applications by number only. No names will be made available to the judges. The award will be made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, handicap, or religious affiliation.

Award: The award will be made public following notification of the winner.
Leapmotor, a startup EV maker in China, witnessed its business growing stronger in 2021.

Leapmotors sales grew month after month during the year, with its new model C11 started deliveries. The company landed various means of financial support, raising solid monetary backup for nearly RMB20 billion.

Moreover, the EV startup introduced its latest technologies in the electric and intelligent vehicle field.

Photo credit: Leapmotor



Let us take a year back and review what the company accomplished in 2021.

Leapmotor Dec. sales soar 368% YoY

After completing its annual target for new vehicle orders, Chinas new energy vehicle startup, Leapmotor, finished the year strong, with its monthly sales record achieving a new high in December 2021.

In December, the auto startup delivered 7,807 vehicles in total, surging 39% from a month ago and 368% year on year. In 2021, the cumulative delivery volume of Leapmotor amounted to 43,121 vehicles.

Leapmotor sets up powertrain technology subsidiary

Chinas EV startup, Leapmotor, has established a new subsidiary, Zhejiang Lingsheng Power Technology Co., Ltd., according to the corporate database, Qichacha.

The new subsidiary was registered on December 20th, with Leapmotors founder, Zhu Jiangming as its legal representative and executive director. The company has a registered capital of RMB200 million and is wholly owned by Leapmotor. According to Qichacha, the business scopes of the company include electric motor/ control system R&D, auto parts R&D, intelligent control system integration, software development, IoT technical service.

Leapmotor introduces new intelligent electric power system at Auto Guangzhou 2021

Chinas EV startup, Leapmotor, introduced its latest power technology achievements at its Leap Power conference at the Auto Guangzhou 2021.

In addition to its intelligent cockpit and intelligent driving applications, Leapmotor now offers an elevated intelligent power system with perception, memory, and learning abilities. Leapmotor calls it a live smart power composed of an intelligent electric drive system and battery system.

Leapmotor partners with China Construction Bank, securing RMB10 billion in capital

Chinas EV startup, Leapmotor, has signed a strategic agreement with China Construction Bank, Zhejiang provincial Branch.

The agreement brings reciprocity and mutual benefit to both parties. Both parties will cooperate in offering various services, such as assets management, supply chain finance, auto finance, and settlement. Besides, the bank will provide nearly RMB10 billion in strategic funding support for the technology company in five years.

Leapmotor nabs 4.5 billion yuan in new financing round

Chinese EV startup Leapmotor announced on August 18 it has completed a new funding round with 4.5 billion yuan ($694.723 million) raised.

The newly-closed financing round was led by China Capital Investment Group, and also attracted China Securities, CITIC Dicastal, as well as the State-owned Assets Supervisions and Administrations Commission of Hangzhou Municipal Government. The governmental arm poured up to 3 billion yuan ($463.149 million) in this funding round.

Leapmotor releases new product launch plan for 2022-2024

Leapmotor recently unveiled the new product roll-out plan it set for the year of 2022 to 2024. According to the schedule, the Chinese EV startup plans to launch two or three all-new and refreshed models per year, which encompass sedans, SUVs, and MPVs.

Specifically, the company intends to release in 2022 the AWD (all-wheel drive) and the REEV (range-extended electric vehicle) versions of the C11, a facelift and the version for export of the T03, and the C01, an all-new full-electric sedan. The C12s all-electric version (5-/6-seater) and the fire new compact SUV A11 are expected for launch in 2023. Moreover, the C02 sedan, the C13s REEV and BEV (battery electric vehicle) versions, and the C21 range-extended MPV will be rolled out in 2024.

Leapmotor teams up with Hangzhous Qiantang New Area for NEV projects

Leapmotor signed an agreement with local authority of Hangzhou Qiantang New Area earlier this week for the cooperation on the EV startup's new energy vehicle (NEV) projects and the goal of jointly building an industrial cluster for intelligent-connected vehicles (ICV).

As an important automobile base to Zhejiang province, Hangzhou has an open environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, and boasts advantages in the combination of automotive industry and digitalization. Qiantang New Area has formed a full-fledged auto-related industrial cluster that has gathered over 100 automakers and auto parts suppliers. Local government is also vigorously pushing ahead with the construction of an ICV industrial base.

Leapmotor introduces Guosen Securities as new shareholder

Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co.,Ltd. (Leapmotor) has introduced a new shareholder, Guosen Securities, a Chinese state-owned financial services company headquartered in Shenzhen, according to the corporate data platform Qichacha.

Founded in Dec. 2015, Leapmotor involves a registered capital of around 789 million yuan ($122.074 million). The startup has a line of businesses including the development, design, production and sale of new energy vehicles (NEVs) and auto parts.

Leapmotor banks 4.3 billion yuan in series B funding

Leapmotor announced on Jan. 27 it raised a total of 4.3 billion yuan ($663.6 million) in its series B financing, exceeding the target by over 1 billion yuan ($154.326 million).

Investors involved in the B round include Hefei municipal government, SDIC Chuangyi, ZJU Jiuzhi Investment Management Co.,Ltd. and Yonghua Capital.

Leapmotor teams up with Hefei government to develop NEV business

Leapmotor recently entered into a strategic partnership with Hefei municipal government for an all-round in-depth cooperation on new energy vehicle (NEV) business. The agreement made the company the second Chinese EV startup supported by the capital of Anhui province following NIO.

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Hangzhou, Leapmotor owns many core technologies developed in-house, which are related to battery, electric motor, electrical control unit, intelligent connectivity as well as autonomous driving.
For years, fans have been pointing out how much Sebastian Stan looks like a young Mark Hamill, the man who played the role of Luke Skywalker in the original Star Wars trilogy.

While out on the promotional trail for the new Hulu biographical drama miniseries Pam & Tommy, the Romanian-American actor was confronted with the comparison once again.

This time in a video feature with Esquire magazine where guests react to internet memes and rumors. One of headlines Stan shared his thoughts to read: 'Fans Demand Sebastian Stan As The Character Of Luke Skywalker In The Mandalorian.'

Comparisons: Sebastian Stan reacted to look-alike comparisons to a young Mark Hamill and fan chatter about him taking over as Luke Skywalker in The Mandalorian

Stan, 39, didn't deny the resemblance between himself and Hamill.

In fact, he seemed to embrace the idea that they look-alike, and be flattered by the rumor that fans would want him to play Luke Skywalker if he appeared in The Mandalorian.

'Look, it's really kind,' he said. 'Never say never.'

His take: 'Look, it's really kind,' Stan said, in reference to him playing Luke Skywalker, 'Never say never'; the Captain America: Civil War actor is pictured in September 2019

Last year, Stan opened up about playing the role of Luke on Good Morning America, saying that if Hamill called him 'personally to tell me that he feels inclined to share this role with me, then I'll believe it.'

Hamill, who reprised his role as Luke Skywalker in the recent sequel trilogy films: Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017) and Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker (2019), tweeted back in 2018 that Stan doesn't need his approval for it.

'Sebastian doesn't need my stamp of approval! He's a wonderful actor & is never less than great in everything he does,' he tweeted.

The two have since embarked on a friendship, which Stan joked about in the new Esquire magazine video.

It's in the genes: In nod to the two actors having a resemblance as younger men, Stan joked: 'Mark Hamill is my father, you know, and he knows that'; the Star Wars icon is seen in June 2019

'Mark Hamill is my father, you know, and he knows that,' the Captain America: Civil War star joked, which appeared to be a reference to their look-alike photos.

'I call him every Christmas to tell him, "Just want you to know I'm around."'

The humorous mention of Hamill being his father also appeared to be a reference to the Luke Skywalker character famously discovering that his father was Darth Vader in The Empire Strikes Back (1980).
Pernod Ricard's corporate affairs director Pamela Nkuna has taken on the additional role of chairperson at South African Liquor Brandowners Association (Salba), an NPO representing manufacturers and distributors in the liquor industry on issues of common interest. Effective late last year, Nkuna replaces Sibani Mngadi as chairperson.

Pamela Nkuna, Salba chairperson. Source: Supplied.

Among Salba's members are industry-leading alcohol companies including Distell, Heineken, Diageo, Pernod Ricard and DGB. As part of the association's mandate, it aims to promote the long-term sustainability of its liquor business members through responsible brand building in a competitive environment.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, associations such as Salba played a notable role by acting as a mouthpiece for the liquor trade, articulating the industrys position in respect of the alcohol bans and highlighting the impact that these have had on the alcohol value chain and in fostering the growth of illicit trade in the country.

With the topic of alcohol misuse coming to the fore during the pandemic, Nkuna's experience on the board of NPO Aware.org, which works to develop a culture of responsible drinking in SA, stands her in good stead to help advance Salba's commitment to harm reduction initiatives.

In addition to this, Nkuna boasts over 10 years of experience in the alcohol industry, focusing on regulatory matters and stakeholder engagement at national government and provincial levels and with local, civil society and NGOs.

Commenting on Nkuna's appointment, Salba CEO Kurt Moore commented, Pamelas appointment comes at a crucial point for the alcohol industry as we start to rebuild our economy and focus on the future of a post-pandemic world. Her experience in regulatory matters and her work on harm reduction will be critical in steering the industry during this next season..."

We chatted to Nkuna to find out what's on her to-do list as Salba's new chairperson, and what the road to recovery is looking like for the alcohol industry.

Pamela, congrats on your selection as chairperson of the South African Liquor Brandowners Association. Whats at the top of your to-do list in your new role?

Thanks so much. I am very happy to have been appointed. During my tenure, I would like to strategically elevate Salba to operate with maximum impact. By this, I mean strengthening existing key stakeholder relationships and mapping out our most important objectives to ensure that our industry continues to operate in a fair and open market.

How do you think your positions at Pernod Ricard and Aware.org have prepared you for this additional responsibility as Salba chairperson?

At Pernod Ricard, I was initially appointed as the head of corporate affairs and recently to corporate affairs director. I am responsible for both sustainability and responsibility as well as regulatory and public affairs. The leadership at Pernod Ricard fully supports my appointment and is always readily available to equip me with the necessary tools required for me to achieve the desired impact.

Working with Aware.org since its launch and now being appointed as director of the Aware.org board has equipped me with a detailed understanding of what is needed to reduce harmful consumption of alcohol in SA.

It's been a tough two years for businesses in your industry with a handful of alcohol bans implemented during the pandemic. What's the road to recovery been like and looking like moving forward?

It may be too early to say, but I believe we are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Government acted responsibly during the fourth wave and did not impose restrictions on a sector struggling to recover from the previous measures and allowing the alcohol, tourism, restaurant and hospitality sectors to continue to trade as normal during the festive season.

Going forward, the industry remains committed to helping rebuild our economy and focus on the future of a post-pandemic world. We can do this by ramping up the vaccination programmes urgently as is being done in other countries, imposing common-sense limits to unsafe gatherings and following the basic health protocols of wearing face masks in public, social distancing and basic hygiene.

Where do you think the most work needs to be done in limiting harmful alcohol consumption and related behaviour? What role do liquor companies have to play in this?

In addressing the major problem of alcohol misuse in the country, it is vital that we work to change behaviours with regards to harmful alcohol consumption. This requires a multi-stakeholder, multi-faceted approach which includes taking interventions into communities and creating opportunities for change that can grow into sustainable impact in the long term.

These interventions must be evidence-based with clear and concise key performance indicators that achieve the desired impact of reducing harmful consumption of alcohol.

Continuous monitoring and evaluation of the progress is key. Impact assessments would be advantageous. In order for these programmes to be impactful, we need to do the necessary research, to understand what the challenges are and to continuously monitor and evaluate the progress.

In order to make South Africans aware of the need for socially responsible alcohol consumption, the alcohol industry has invested more than R450m in funding programme interventions and initiatives through Aware.org, the not-for-profit organisation funded by the alcohol industry.

Its mandate is to reduce the harmful consumption of alcohol with a focus on drunk driving and walking; underage drinking; binge drinking; Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD); responsible trading; responsible marketing and social norms, public education and awareness campaigns.

What do you enjoy most about your work in the industry?

I really love being able to merge my qualifications and my passion to make a meaningful difference in society. I enjoy being part of the solution to societal ills both from a strategic and regulatory point of view, as well as from a hands-on approach to helping society.

I love working with the most passionate people across the industry, private sector, government, and civil society. Even though we all come from different backgrounds and cultures, when it comes to doing what is right for society, we all work hand in hand as a strong united force fighting for humanity. That satisfaction is what drives me to do more.

In your opinion, what are the qualities of a great leader?

A great leader is one who leads by example, displaying qualities of transparency, integrity, tactfulness and strategy. A great leader does the necessary research, displays empathy, strategically assesses the situation and then tactfully responds.

In closing, what impact do you hope to make in your industry?

I hope to make meaningful change to society and continue to strengthen partnerships with government and our stakeholders. Leading the industrys social responsibility is both a professional and personal cause and I am grateful for the opportunity.
Edith Turner was born and raised in Mathews County, and for as long as she can remember, a statue honoring Confederate soldiers has sat in the middle of town. It was never a welcome sight for Turner, president of the Mathews County NAACP. But she didnt give the monument much thought  until pro-Confederacy groups started decorating the area with flags and sporadically sending armed guards to ...
St. Clair County has completed an eight-month review of a ransomware attack on its computer system last spring, prompting the release of more details about what happened.

More than 600 people will receive letters in the mail this week, informing them that the breach may have allowed hackers to view or acquire their personal or medical information.

"Individuals are encouraged to remain vigilant against events of identity theft by reviewing account statements (and explanations) of benefits and monitoring free credit reports for suspicious activity and to detect errors," according to a county statement.

"Any suspicious activity should be reported to the appropriate insurance company, health care provider or financial institution."

The letters were reportedly mailed Monday by Kroll, a private New York-based firm specializing in data protection that is working with the county and its cyber insurance company.

An analysis by Kroll's experts found no evidence that any of the information accessed by the hackers had been misused or caused problems, according to Jeff Sandusky, the county's information technology director.

"The predominance of the data was fairly old  15 years plus  so it's not relatively recent data," he said Tuesday.

The 600 people include both St. Clair County residents and non-residents who have received services or done business with various departments or offices. Sandusky called the focus "random."

Illegally accessed information could include names, addresses and dates of birth; Social Security numbers; driver's license or state identification numbers; medical diagnoses and treatments; health care and insurance providers.

A "malware infection" prompted Sandusky to shut down the county's computer system and website for several days, beginning May 30, 2021.

"The amount of time we were down was self-imposed," he said last month. "We had to verify our data integrity, as well as implement some security measures to protect the system."

The county released few details on the breach last spring. On Tuesday, Sandusky confirmed for the first time that a ransomware group had asked St. Clair County for money and officials refused to pay it.

Sandusky still isn't revealing the name of the group or amount of money requested due to an ongoing federal investigation.

"My goal is to make sure we share as much information with the public as we can  because they have a right to know  and to make sure that people understand we are doing everything we can in a very challenging world to protect their data while providing the services that they need," he said.

St. Clair County is one of a growing number of counties, school districts and other public bodies across the United States that are being hacked. Some pay ransoms, and some don't. Severity of damage varies.

Here is a timeline for last spring's ransomware attack, according to St. Clair County officials:

The IT staff detected "anomalies" with the computer system on May 27, 2021, and took protective action.

A cyberattack occurred on May 30, and Sandusky shut down the system.

The county contacted its cyber insurance company and launched an investigation with the help of Tracepoint, a national company that specializes in cyber incident response and recovery.

The investigation revealed that an "unauthorized actor" had accessed the computer system, possibly viewing or acquiring information on May 27 and removing files on May 30.

The person or group asked for ransom money, and county officials refused to pay it.

By this time, the Federal Bureau of Investigation was involved in the case.

The website and computer system were gradually restored with most departments up and running within 72 hours.

Kroll was brought in to do a "thorough and time-consuming" analysis to determine whether the hackers viewed or acquired sensitive data and who was affected.

At the time of the breach, a ransomware group calling itself "Grief" claimed it had targeted St. Clair County and other organizations, demanding payment in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Monero, according to several publications specializing in cybersecurity.

In screenshots of the group's website, obtained by the Belleville News-Democrat, the group claimed it had obtained 2.5 gigabytes of data, including internal company documents and personal and customer information.

Today, the county's IT staff is continuing to review existing internal policies and procedures related to data protection and cybersecurity and making appropriate changes, according to Sandusky.

In retrospect, he sees both positive and negative impacts of the ransomware attack.

"A negative is that we still had a (cyber insurance) deductible that we had to reach, so it did cost the county money. ... It cost us time and productivity. It caused challenges in serving the public for a few days," Sandusky said.

"On the positive side, it did highlight the importance of cybersecurity. It highlighted the importance of investing in infrastructure  all of the things that our country is trying to do aggressively."

Sandusky referred questions about costs incurred by St. Clair County for the cyber insurance deductible and other activity related to the ransomware attack to Frank Bergman, director of human resources, who didn't immediately return calls for comment on Tuesday.

People who want more information regarding the security breach and how they can protect themselves should call 855-632-1644 from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Australian poker machine giant Aristocrat Leisure says it will become a major player in online casino gambling one way or another, after the collapse of its $4 billion takeover of British gambling technology outfit Playtech.

The $27 billion groups takeover of Playtech, which makes software for online casinos, was killed by a group of Hong Kong investors that bought up a blocking stake in recent months and voted against the 2.1 billion deal.

Aristocrats $4b takeover of online casino group Playtech has fallen through.

Aristocrat CEO Trevor Croker said 80 per cent of the votes against the deal were from investors who bought their shares after it announced the takeover in October last year, and refused to engage over the deal.

Obviously its a disappointing outcome. It was a recommended offer by the [Playtech] board and supported by the majority of Playtech shareholders, he said. These developments have been largely beyond Aristocrats control.
The answer is surprising, even paradoxical. Europeans and Ukrainians are skeptical of a major Russian invasion in Ukraine not because they have a more benign view of Mr. Putin than their American counterparts. On the contrary, its because they see him as more malicious. War, they reason, is not the Kremlins game. Instead, its an extensive suite of tactics designed to destabilize the West. For Europe, the threat of war could turn out to be more destructive than war itself.

America and Europe arent divided on what Mr. Putin wants. For all the speculation about motives, that much is clear: The Kremlin wants a symbolic break from the 1990s, burying the post-Cold War order. That would take the form of a new European security architecture that recognizes Russias sphere of influence in the post-Soviet space and rejects the universality of Western values. Rather than the restoration of the Soviet Union, the goal is the recovery of what Mr. Putin regards as historic Russia.

In Washington and Brussels, the message has gotten through. Theres a general agreement on both sides of the Atlantic that the Kremlin, whatever it might do next, wont stay still. Russia will not simply step back. But while Americans tend to believe that Mr. Putin needs a hot war in Ukraine to realize his grand ambitions, Europeans and presumably Ukrainians believe that a hybrid strategy  involving military presence on the border, weaponization of energy flows and cyberattacks  will serve him better.

Thats based on some sound reasoning. A Russian incursion into Ukraine could, in a perverse way, save the current European order. NATO would have no choice but to respond assertively, bringing in stiff sanctions and acting in decisive unity. By hardening the conflict, Mr. Putin could cohere his opponents. Holding back, by contrast, could have the opposite effect: The policy of maximum pressure, short of an invasion, may end up dividing and paralyzing NATO.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin responds to questions during a House Armed Services Committee hearing in Washington, on Sept.29, 2021. (Rod Lamkey/Pool via Reuters)

US to Send Warship, Fighter Jets to UAE After Attacks by Iran-Backed Houthis

The United States is deploying fighter jets and a guided missile destroyer to assist the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in response to recent attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The decision follows a phone call between U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, according to a Pentagon statement.

The United States will send the USS Cole to partner with the UAE navy before a port call in Abu Dhabi. It will also deploy fifth-generation fighter jets to help the UAE against current threats.

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole is shown at sea in the port of Aden, Yemen, circa September 2000. (U.S. Navy/Getty Images)

Read More Beijing Cant Wait for Escalation of Ukraine Crisis

The gesture is a clear signal that the United States stands with the UAE as a long-standing strategic partner, according to the statement. Other actions include providing early warning intelligence and collaborating on air defense.

The UAE is part of a Saudi-led coalition that has been fighting the Houthi group since 2015, when the rebels ousted the government from the Yemeni capital of Sanaa.

On Jan. 31, the UAE was attacked by the Houthis for a third time in two weeks while it was hosting Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The Gulf state was able to intercept and destroy a ballistic missile fired by the Houthis.

U.S. and Emirati officials said an earlier missile attack on Jan. 24 was aimed at Al Dhafra Air Base, which was hosting U.S. and Emirati armed forces. U.S. forces used multiple Patriot missile interceptors to destroy the two inbound Houthi ballistic missiles, resulting in zero casualties.

Prior to that, on Jan. 17, a drone and missile attack by the Houthis hit three petroleum tanker trucks and triggered a small fire at the international airport in Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital. The attack killed three foreign workerstwo Indian nationals and a Pakistaniand wounded six others. This triggered airstrikes in retaliation on Sanaa.

Yemenis inspect the damage following overnight airstrikes by the Saudi-led coalition targeting the Houthi rebel-held capital Sanaa, on Jan. 18, 2022. (Mohammed Huwais/AFP via Getty Images)

The Emirati envoy to the United Nations last week said the UAE may upgrade its defensive capabilities and was in discussions with the United States.

The United States would continue providing early-warning intelligence and collaborate on air defense, Austin told Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, the UAEs de facto ruler.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Karachi, Feb 3 (PTI) A Pakistani Hindu businessman has been shot dead over a land dispute with some members of the Dahar community in Sindh province, in the latest attack on the minority community in the country, according to a media report.

Satan Lal, the businessman, was shot dead on Monday in the Ghotki district, the Express Tribune newspaper reported.

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The murder has triggered protests in several towns of Ghotki. On Tuesday, a large number of protesters blocked the National Highway to protest the killing of Lal.

Following the sit-in, police arrested ring leader Bachal Dahar and his accomplices accused of killing Lal. The local people had earlier staged a protest in front of Daharki police station to press the law enforcement agency to apprehend the culprits, the report said.

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Deputy Inspector General (DIG) police Sukkur said the culprits involved in the incident had been arrested and that protesters had now cleared the highway.

Dahar is a caste in Sindh. They are settled in different areas of the province including Ghotki. They are predominantly Muslims.

"There was an inauguration of a cotton factory and flour mill on the land of Satan Lal where some people shot and killed him," Lal's friend Mukhi Anil Kumar, who was present at the scene, was quoted as saying by the daily over the phone.

"We initially thought that it was aerial firing to welcome Saen Sadhram Saheb, spiritual leader of the Dahar community," he added.

This was the second attempt on Lal's life.

According to local journalist Shabir Arbani, "A two-acre land dispute triggered the incident. Around eight years ago, some people had shot and injured Satan Lal who also came under attack a few months ago."

In the video that went viral a few months ago, Lal had said: "They are threatening to kill me, smash my eyes and cut my hands and feet. They are asking me to leave Pakistan. I belong to this country and will prefer to die here but will not surrender," the report said.

"The roadside land belongs to me and why should I give up," he was further quoted as saying.

Earlier, Lal had requested the chief justice of Pakistan and other authorities to provide him justice, naming those who were threatening to kill him.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) lawmaker Khehal Das Kohistani said that efforts were afoot to tarnish the image of co-existence in Sindh where Hindus and Muslims live peacefully for centuries."

"The situation will spiral out of control if protection is not given to the minorities living in the province," Kohistani said and urged the chief minister, IG police and others to take notice of the situation and provide justice and protection to the aggrieved Hindu families facing threats.

Hindus form the biggest minority community in Pakistan. According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. However, according to the community, over 90 lakh Hindus are living in the country.

The majority of Pakistan's Hindu population is settled in Sindh province where they share culture, traditions and language with Muslim residents.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
When I started out in the industry, 'media monitoring' used to be a phrase that struck dread into the hearts of junior PR people. It often meant physically cutting media mentions out of newspapers and magazines, and pasting them into a clippings book. If you were really unlucky, you'd have to listen to broadcast interviews and manually transcribe them. It was soul-destroying stuff.

Image supplied

Thankfully, technology has fundamentally changed the media monitoring industry. But yet, I still find myself having to explain what it is, and why people pay money for it. So, as they say on Twitter, Im not sure who needs to hear this, but heres the lowdown.

What is media monitoring? And who uses it?

As I always say, knowledge is power. Media monitoring allows you to track how your company and your campaigns are being talked about across print, online, broadcast and social media. It enables decision-makers to track trends, and know where their narrative lands (and doesnt). Reports can also zoom in to provide insights into how a single campaign or announcement was received, and track the longevity and impact of the message.

Practically every organisation, from big consumer brands to listed companies to non-profits and government agencies, that uses public relations will invariably have some form of media monitoring in place.

Why is media monitoring important?

At a basic level, it helps organisations understand the impact of their PR and marketing efforts. But its more than that. Its also a critical reputation management tool: it listens for any negative publicity, and helps companies deal with crises quickly and effectively.

On the upside, media monitoring identifies trends and conversations that help companies understand their audiences better, and get closer to them. Modern monitoring services also offer analytics and insights that help businesses understand their key metrics better, and shape their plans accordingly.

What is media monitoring software and why is it important?

We live in a world thats increasingly online. Humans simply cant track every hit, alert and search term out there. People increasingly get their news and content from a range of channels thats impossible to track manually. Thats where media monitoring software helps monitor as many different sources and platforms as possible while providing critical data and insights around sentiment, share of voice and many other metrics that help you see how your brand is perceived.

So why do we need humans, then?

Great question! Fact is, while media monitoring technology is making great strides, making sense of the information still needs the human touch. Artificial Intelligence (AI) simply hasnt reached the stage where it can match the quality, accuracy or nuance that trained analysts bring to the table.

We still need skilled people to interpret the stories behind the data and extract meaningful and relevant insights that inform business decisions. Automated systems also struggle with nuanced wording  and when it comes to irony, they have no clue.

How do you choose a media monitor provider?

There are many media monitoring tools and providers out there. I always say, find yourself a vendor who will take the time to understand your business, and become a true partner, rather than just a supplier. That way, theyll help you make the most of your media monitoring efforts and your budget.
An energy company already charged with violating Pennsylvania environmental laws during construction of a multibillion-dollar pipeline system is facing more legal trouble after prosecutors filed a new criminal case alleging its negligence led to the explosion of a different pipeline near Pittsburgh.

ETC Northeast Pipeline LLC, a subsidiary of Dallas-based Energy Transfer LP, botched construction of the Revolution pipeline, a 42-mile pipeline that runs from Butler County to a natural gas processing plant in Washington County, the attorney general's office alleged Tuesday. The company was charged with nine misdemeanor counts under the state's Clean Streams Law.

A 2018 landslide along the pipeline's route in Beaver County triggered a gas explosion and fire that destroyed a home, a barn and several cars, collapsed six high-voltage transmission towers, and prompted an evacuation. The family whose home was destroyed awakened to a loud roar and saw an "orange glow bright as day" but managed to escape, a grand jury wrote in a report issued Tuesday.

The pipeline failed just two weeks after being placed into service. An investigation found the landslide was triggered by ETC's failure to install adequate erosion control equipment at the hillside site.

The "explosion happened because of Energy Transfer's negligence as they built the Revolution pipeline," Attorney General Josh Shapiro said in a written statement.

Energy Transfer said it looks forward to resolving the case. A conviction could result in fines and restitution.

The charges "come as no surprise to us, as these are not new or additional claims," said a company spokesperson, Vicki Granado. She said Energy Transfer has been discussing the case with Shapiro's office "and will continue to work with them and look forward to getting these issues resolved."

The state Department of Environmental Protection previously levied a $30 million civil fine on Energy Transfer after determining the company violated numerous regulations during construction of the Revolution pipeline.

The financial penalty was part of a 2020 settlement agreement between the environmental agency and ETC in which the state agreed to lift a moratorium on construction permits it had imposed on Energy Transfer nearly a year earlier.

That allowed the company to resume construction on its much larger Mariner East pipeline network, which takes natural gas liquids from the Marcellus Shale gas field in western Pennsylvania to an export terminal near Philadelphia.

In October, Shapiro filed 48 criminal counts against Energy Transfer, accusing the company of illegally releasing industrial waste at 22 sites in 11 counties during construction of Mariner East. Shapiro said Energy Transfer ruined the drinking water of at least 150 families statewide. A spill of thousands of gallons of drilling fluid contaminated wetlands, a stream and part of a 535-acre lake at Marsh Creek State Park outside Philadelphia.
SPOKANE, Wash. (AP)  Workers on a former nuclear weapons production site have started the first large-scale treatment of radioactive and chemical wastes from large underground storage tanks, a key milestone in cleaning up the Hanford Nuclear Reservation, the U.S. Department of Energy said Wednesday.

Hanford for decades made plutonium for the nations nuclear arsenal and is the most radioactively contaminated site in the nations nuclear weapons complex. It was created by the Manhattan Project and made the plutonium for the atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki, Japan, at the end of the World War II.

William White, Energy Department senior advisor for environmental management, called the new $130 million cesium removal system a major milestone.

The importance of this achievement cant be overstated, White said, adding that it would eventually transform the Hanford site.

The newly operational system removes radioactive cesium and solids from waste stored in huge underground tanks at Hanford. The treated waste will be stored until it is sent to the nearby Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant, where it will be converted into a glass-like substance for long-term storage. That plant, under construction since 2002, comes online next year, the agency said.

This is an exciting new era in our Hanford cleanup mission, said Brian Vance, manager of DOEs Office of River Protection at Hanford. For the first time in Hanford site history, we are treating a significant amount of tank waste on an industrial scale.

Hanford tank operations contractor Washington River Protection Solutions  working with Energy Department staff, other site contractors and regulatory agencies  built, installed and tested the cesium removal system.

The technology is nearly identical to a system operating at DOEs Savannah River Site in South Carolina, which also made plutonium, the agency said.

Hanford contains approximately 56 million gallons of radioactive waste stored in 177 underground tanks, representing one of DOEs largest environmental risks and most complex challenges. The tank waste is a result of nearly five decades of plutonium production that supported national security missions and helped end World War II, the DOE said.

This is a win, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, who used to represent the Hanford area in the U.S. House, said in a pre-recorded statement. Inslee noted that the wastes stored inside the tanks, some of which are leaking, could eventually threaten the nearby Columbia River.

U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., called the news a monumental step in the cleanup of Hanford.

But it is one step.

Finishing the cleanup of Hanford, located near Richland in southcentral Washington, will cost an estimated $300 billion to $640 billion, and take until about 2078, according to a Department of Energy report published at the end of January.

The 580-square-mile (1,502-square-kilometer) Hanford site, located along the Columbia River, produced almost two-thirds of the plutonium for the nations nuclear weapons program from World War II through the Cold War.

DOE is spending about $2.5 billion annually on environmental cleanup of the wastes, plus contaminated buildings, soil and groundwater. But the estimated costs to finish most cleanup by 2078 would require much larger annual budgets.

This story has been corrected to show that treated waste will be stored in an underground tank, not special capsules.
Committee hearings are now in full swing, and floor debate continues priority legislation. Last week, LB723 introduced by Senator Briese passed on General File and was advanced. LB723, as amended, raises the cap of property tax relief through refundable income tax credits that can be delivered to Nebraskans in 2024 from $375 million to $560 million.

LB825, Senator Lindstroms priority bill, also passed the first round of debate. LB825 phases out the state income tax on social security benefits over the next four years. This will greatly benefit Nebraskas retirees, many of whom often struggle financially, and help retain retirees in our state.

The Legislature passed Senator Hallorans priority resolution, LR14, on Final Reading. LR14 is a resolution to Congress to call for a convention of states under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. This conventions purpose would be to propose amendments to the U.S. constitution, specifically to impose fiscal restraints on and limit the power of the federal government and create term limits for members of Congress. 34 of the states would need to pass a similar resolution for this to occur.

LB925, introduced by Senator Gragert was heard in the Natural Resources Committee. This bill would create the Resilient Soils and Water Quality Act to help improve management practices of soil and improve water quality. Under this bill, the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (DNR) would create a producer-led learning community that could partner with entities such as UNL, farm organizations, Natural Resources Districts, and private landowners to establish demonstration and research farms to promote better management practices of land in diverse regions around Nebraska.

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) Legislative Conference. This conference brings Natural Resources Districts, elected officials, agriculture producers, and members of the community involved with conservation together.

I introduced LR286, recognizing the 50th anniversary of the creation of Nebraskas Natural Resources Districts on July 1st, 2022. LR248 recognizes the critical role the NRDs play in partnership with landowners and other organizations in managing, conserving, and protecting Nebraskas natural resources and improving the land and sustaining it for future generations.

I joined fellow state senators and other elected officials, as well as hundreds of Nebraskans in participating in the annual Nebraska Walk for Life. The event began by listening to speakers on the north steps of the Capitol, and then walking to the UNL Student Union to hear the keynote speaker. I was encouraged by the enthusiasm of the people who attended and enjoyed meeting people from District 23. I will continue to support pro-life issues and defend the pre-born.

I appreciate hearing from constituents on issues affecting District 23 and encourage you to contact my office on legislation at 402-471-2719 or bbostelman@leg.ne.gov.
Moroccan energy minister Leila Benali has confirmed news reported last year that the country will reverse the flow of a pipeline that used to channel Algerian gas to Spain via Morocco.

Benali told Bloomberg that Morocco has invited LNG operators in Spain to bid for contracts that could last five years with the aim of using Spanish LNG capacity to export gas to Morocco.

Morocco has tendered for a floating storage and regasification unit FSRU last year and intends to set it up in Mohammedia port.

The reversal of the pipeline has been reported by Reuters and Moroccan media in October and the Spanish energy minister has recently confirmed the news to Bloomberg.

Morocco has requested help to guarantee its energy security based on commercial relations, and Spain has responded positively to the request, the ministry said in a statement to Bloomberg. Morocco will be able to acquire LNG in international markets, offload in a regasification plant in Spain and use the Maghreb gas pipeline to send it to its territory.

Algeria halted gas supplies through the Maghreb Europe pipeline last October.

Benali said Moroccos gas consumption would increase from 1 billion cubic meters in 2021 to 3 billion cubic meters in 2040.

Moroccos domestic gas production is expected at 110 million cubic meters this year but promising prospects await the country with the successful wells discovered by British companies Sound Energy, Chariot, and Sdx energy across the country.

Morocco has revised upwards its renewable energy targets to 70% of the energy mix by 2040 and 80% by 2080 in a bid to meet its low-carbon goals.

Moroccan authorities look at LNG as a clean source of energy suitable for the carbon-free transition.
Combined element map of the rock chip from Martian meteorite NWA 7034 analyzed in this study.Red, Fe; green, Ca; blue, Mg. Dashed lines outline representative clasts greater than ~1 mm. Inset shows the BSE map of matrix with the location of the shock-deformed zircon grain; double-headed arrows in inset indicate orientations of features shown to be {112} shock twins.

Curtin University researchers studying a Martian meteorite have found the first evidence of high-intensity damage caused by asteroid impact, in findings that have implications for understanding when conditions suitable for life may have existed on early Mars.

Published in leading journal Science Advances, the research examined grains of the mineral zircon in Martian meteorite NWA 7034. The meteorite, colloquially known as Black Beauty, is a rare sample of the surface of Mars. The original 320-gram rock was found in northern Africa and first reported in 2013.

Lead author Morgan Cox, a PhD candidate from Curtins Space Science and Technology Centre (SSTC) in the School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, described the meteorite as a collection of broken rock fragments and minerals, mostly basalt, that solidified and became a rock over time. A zircon found inside the meteorite preserves evidence of damage that only occurs during large meteorite impacts.

This grain is truly a one-off gift from the Red Planet. High-pressure shock deformation has not previously been found in any minerals from Black Beauty. This discovery of shock damage in a 4.45 billion-year-old Martian zircon provides new evidence of dynamic processes that affected the surface of early Mars, Ms Cox said.

The type of shock damage in the Martian zircon involves twinning, and has been reported from all of the biggest impact sites on Earth, including the one in Mexico that killed off the dinosaurs, as well as the Moon, but not previously from Mars.

Co-author Dr Aaron Cavosie, also from Curtins SSTC, said the occurrence of zircon grains in the Black Beauty meteorite provided physical evidence of large impacts on early Mars, and had implications for the habitability of the young planet.

Prior studies of zircon in Martian meteorites proposed that conditions suitable for life may have existed by 4.2 billion years ago based on the absence of definitive shock damage Dr Cavosie said.

Mars remained subject to impact bombardment after this time, on the scale known to cause mass extinctions on Earth. The zircon we describe provides evidence of such impacts, and highlights the possibility that the habitability window may have occurred later than previously thought, perhaps coinciding with evidence for liquid water on Mars by 3.9 to 3.7 billion years ago.

The research team also included collaborators from The University of Western Australia and the University of Glasgow.

The full research paper, Impact and habitability scenarios for early Mars revisited based on a 4.45-Ga shocked zircon in regolith breccia can be found online here.
The U.S. Army announced on Feb. 2 that it will immediately start discharging, or separating, soldiers who have refused to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Under a directive (pdf) issued by the Army, the order applies to regular soldiers, active-duty Army reservists, and Army cadets unless they have an exemption or a pending exemption.

Army readiness depends on soldiers who are prepared to train, deploy, fight and win our nations wars, Army Secretary Christine Wormuth said in a statement. Unvaccinated soldiers present risk to the force and jeopardize readiness.

Wormuth added that the service will begin involuntary separation proceedings for Soldiers who refuse the vaccine order and are not pending a final decision on an exemption.

Army soldiers who are discharged because theyve refused the COVID-19 vaccine wont be eligible for involuntary separation pay. They also might be subject to recoupment of any unearned special or incentive pay, the Army stated.

Other branches of the U.S. armed forces have begun to remove those who have chosen not to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine.

The Army has not yet involuntarily separated any Soldiers solely for refusing the lawful order to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, the statement continued. As of Jan. 26, Army commanders have relieved a total of six regular Army leaders, including two battalion commanders, and issued 3,073 general officer written reprimands to Soldiers for refusing the vaccination order.

Officers and warrant officers who have refused the vaccine have until March to get it, according to the directive.

Soldiers who are eligible to retire before July 1 are permitted to retire via an expedited process rather than be kicked out of the Army, the directive stated. They have to submit retirement requests by March or within 14 days of their exemption denial.

All soldiers, including those in an entry-level status, who are refusing to become vaccinated will be issued either an Honorable or General (under honorable conditions) discharge, the Army order added, although it stated that troops with additional misconduct might not receive an honorable discharge.

The vast majority of all active-duty troops have received at least one dose, according to data provided by the government. About 79 uniformed military personnel across the different U.S. armed services have died from COVID-19.

In 2020, there were about 1.33 million active-duty Department of Defense members, including officers and enlisted personnel.

The Pentagon started requiring members of the military to get the vaccine last summer. The directive has drawn several lawsuits from current service members, including Navy SEALs, with some arguing that the federal government and Biden administration is denying them the ability to obtain a religious exemption to the vaccines.

COVID-19 is the illness caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.

Reuters contributed to this report.

From The Epoch Times
By Gul Yousafzai and Asif Shahzad

QUETTA, Pakistan (Reuters) -Insurgents armed with bombs and guns attacked two Pakistani military bases overnight, killing seven soldiers while losing 13 of their own men, the army said on Thursday, in the latest violence in the resource-rich southwestern Balochistan province where China is investing.

The attacks came hours before Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Beijing for the opening of the Winter Olympics, where he will have meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders.

"Our armed forces repulsed the big attacks," Khan and Minister of Interior Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said separate statements.

The army said the attacks were simultaneous and coordinated, and that some of the attackers were still encircled by the military.

Ethnic Baloch guerrillas have been fighting the government

for decades for a separate state, saying the central government unfairly exploits Balochistan's rich gas and mineral resources.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) group claimed responsibility in a statement sent to a Reuters reporter, saying its suicide bombers had detonated explosive-laden vehicles at the entrances of the bases killing more than 100 soldiers.

A security official dismissed that figure as "utterly rubbish".

Last week, the insurgents killed 10 soldiers in an attack on a post near the port of Gwadar on the Arabian Sea, the heaviest casualty toll for the army in the Balochistan insurgency in years.

Islamabad blames arch-rival India for supporting the insurgency, a charge Delhi denies, and says such anti-Pakistan groups often use neighbouring Afghanistan to plan attacks.

"As per initial investigation, intelligence agencies have intercepted communications between terrorists and their handlers in Afghanistan and India," the Pakistani army said.

A Taliban government spokesman Bilal Karimi denied it. "In our country, nothing has happened yet, if anything has happened in Pakistan it is their internal issue," he told Reuters.

Story continues

Indian external affairs ministry didn't respond to a request for comment.

CHINA CONCERNS

A Pakistani security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the nature of the equipment used in the attack raised serious questions about who was providing logistical support.

The attackers used "state of the art weapons and equipment like M-16s, 7D rifles (foreign origin), foreign manufactured night vision devices (NVDs)," the official said.

Baloch guerrillas usually attack gas projects, infrastructure and the security forces. They also attack Chinese projects, and occasionally kill Chinese workers despite Pakistani assurances that it is doing everything it can to protect the projects.

China is involved in the development of the Gwadar port and other projects in the province as part of a $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is part of Beijing's Belt and Road initiative.

Khan and his team would be exploring economic opportunities on the visit to Beijing, including trying to persuade Chinese businesses to set up in Pakistan, Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin said.

(Reporting and writing by Asif Shahzad in Islamaad; Additional reporting by Saud Mehsud in Dera Ismail Khan and Kabul Newsroom; Editing by Robert Birsel and Toby Chopra)
Joe Rogan is described on his website as stand up comic, mixed martial arts fanatic, psychedelic adventurer, host of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast. Its the last of these that has really made his name, and for many audiences, made the medium of podcasting too.

An estimated 200 million people download Rogans each month, making him the most popular podcaster in the US.
Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso receives an interview with Xinhua in Quito, Ecuador, Jan. 31, 2022. (Ecuadorian presidential palace/Handout via Xinhua)

QUITO, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Reactivating the economy is key to Ecuador's post-pandemic recovery, and China's support is vital, Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso has said in a recent exclusive interview with Xinhua.

Lasso, who is set to attend the opening ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games in Beijing during his four-day visit on Feb. 3-6 to China, said that he was "very honored and thrilled" to participate in the celebration, which he predicted will be "exemplary" given China's knack for organizing large-scale events.

The Beijing Winter Olympics will mark the first time an Ecuadorian female Olympian takes part in a Winter Olympic competition as Sarah Escobar will be on stage in the women's giant slalom, and Lasso wished her the greatest success.

Lasso said he has been looking forward to visiting China. This will be Lasso's first official visit to China after taking office in May 2021, though he had traveled there as a tourist in 1994.

Noting that he was "very impressed by that dynamic Chinese growth and development," he said that today he continues to marvel at "China's thriving development based on this model of openness towards investment and towards the world."

Expecting to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he said Ecuador shares Xi's vision of promoting people's well-being.

As regards bilateral trade and investment, Lasso said, "there is a chance that Ecuador will increase its exports to China and there is a chance that Chinese investment will increase in Ecuador. There is no doubt that it will only lead to deepening ties between the Chinese and the Ecuadorian people."

Referring to China's support for Ecuador's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, he said his country appreciates China's supply of equipment, medicine and vaccines, adding that more than 60 percent of COVID-19 vaccines in Ecuador were provided by China.

The vaccines "allowed us to vaccinate about 82 percent of Ecuadorians with both doses, thus protecting us from the new Delta and Omicron variants," Lasso said.

Saying "Happy New Year" in Chinese, Lasso extended congratulations and best wishes to the Chinese people, and wish the New Year -- the Year of the Tiger, a symbol of strength, courage, and an end to misfortune -- brings China peace, well-being, health, happiness and prosperity. 
Greenland's immense ice sheet has lost so much ice over the past 20 years that it can submerge the whole of USA in half a metre of water, according to data from Danish researchers, as per AFP.

The climate getting warm quicker in the Arctic than anywhere else in the world and melting ice from Greenland a key factor in the rise in the Earth's oceans, says NASA.

Since the early measurements in 2002, the Greenland ice sheet has lost about 4700 billion tonnes of ice, said Polar Portal.

That is "enough to cover the entire US by half a meter".

AFP

"Independent observations also indicate that the ice is thinning, that the glacier fronts are retreating in fjords and on land, and that there is a greater degree of melting from the surface of the ice," the website added.

Main factor in rise in Earth's oceans

Melting ice from Greenland is currently the main factor in the rise in the Earth's oceans.

Climate scientists say that the Greenland ice sheet contains enough water to raise the oceans by more than seven metres.

AFP

According to a study published by NASA in late January, the accelerated melting near Greenland's coasts can be explained by the warming of the Arctic Ocean.

Arctic sea ice cover, although its melting has no effect on sea levels, has also shrunk considerably, losing almost 13 percent of its average surface area every 10 years.



For more on news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.


This cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom Morningside bungalow has been renovated and is ready for you to call it home! The home has vinyl siding, new roof shingles, a new front porch, new carpet, new interior paint, vinyl flooring and much more. It is move in ready!
Just six weeks ago, Scott Morrison was railing against mask mandates, QR codes and general government involvement in Australians' lives during the Covid pandemic.

But this week the Prime Minister has completely changed his tune - declaring he was wrong to raise the nation's hopes about Covid and even backing Western Australia's hard border after months of calling for free movement across the nation.

The extraordinary backflip fuelled long-standing criticism the PM has no firm ideology and simply adapts his views based on prevailing public opinion.

Labor identified Mr Morrison's apparent lack of conviction as a weak spot, with the Opposition's health spokesman Mark Butler telling Daily Mail Australia the about-face showed the PM is 'fickle' and cannot be trusted.

In a speech to the National Press Club on February 1, Mr Morrison explained his dip in popularity by admitting he had let Australians down by 'raising their hopes' ahead of summer

Poll Is Scott Morrison's decision to back Mark McGowan's hardline border a mistake? Yes - we need to open up No - WA is lucky to have no cases He has no option because McGowan has the power Is Scott Morrison's decision to back Mark McGowan's hardline border a mistake? Yes - we need to open up 194 votes

No - WA is lucky to have no cases 66 votes

He has no option because McGowan has the power 110 votes Now share your opinion





Mr Morrison also faced friendly fire on Thursday, with Sky News host and former Liberal advisor Chris Kenny hammering him for not calling West Australian Premier Mark McGowan out for reneging on reopening the border.

Asked on Perth radio on Thursday if Mr McGowan did the right thing by delaying the state's opening date, the Prime Minister flatly replied: 'Yeah, I think he did.'

Mr McGowan made cryptic comments on Thursday hinting the state's border with the rest of the country may not come down as 'further waves' of Covid need to be considered.

Kenny said on Thursday night: 'Mark McGowan's wrong and the Prime Minister didn't call him out on it.

'(The PM) needs to call out Mark McGowan on this. He's the Prime Minister of Australia! He should support no internal hard borders.

'We need politicians who'll make the right call for the country, not try and second-guess the politics.'

Sources close to the Prime Minister claim he did stand up to Mr McGowan and point to a section of the radio interview where he appeared to blame the premier for not better preparing the WA hospital system.

'Well, I'm saying that's the premier's call. That's what I'm saying. And he has to make that decision based on what he thinks his health system is ready to absorb,' Mr Morrison said.

Since 2012-13, federal health funding to WA has grown by 85.3 per cent, while state Government funding has increased by 18.4 per cent.

Major backflip

As recently as December Mr Morrison repeatedly denounced Covid restrictions, urging state premiers to get out of Australians' lives and treat the disease like flu.

In a keynote speech to the Sydney Institute he presented himself as a longstanding libertarian who had reluctantly been forced to oversee unprecedented restrictions on the Australian people.

'While necessary, it is not normal for government to tell Australians where we can and can't go, who we can and can't invite into our homes, to stay home, to close our businesses,' he said.

'None of these restrictions belong in the lives of Australians. Australians don't like it. I don't like it.

'It is time for governments to step back and let Australians step forward... to put Australians back in charge of their own lives.'

Former Liberal advisor turned Sky News commentator Chris Kenny (pictured) blasted the Prime Minister for backing Mark McGowan's hard border

Scott Morrison's big Covid freedom backflip On government restrictions December 13: 'None of these restrictions belong in the lives of Australians. Australians don't like it. I don't like it' January 19: 'We have density arrangements tailored to the circumstances in each state and territory. We have strong border controls which we stand up for and we protect' On masks December 21: 'We've got to treat Australians like adults, and we all have our own responsibility in our communities and for our own health' January 19: 'In Australia, we have isolation and we have testing where necessary. We have masks and distancing rules' On WA's border November 9: 'Once you go over 80 per cent and you keep things locked down, you are doing more harm than good to your economy' November 30: 'I look forward to everybody coming together for Christmas and New Year's and the summer holidays... we need to make calm decisions, not get spooked by (Omicron)' December 13: 'Australia is going to be connected and together again. This will be welcome news for thousands of Western Australians looking forward to reuniting with family and friends after so long apart' February 3: 'Yeah I think he did' (when asked if Mark McGowan made the right call to keep the border closed) Advertisement

The comments were well received by Liberal and National MPs, many of whom shared that view and had been espousing it for months.

The following week - as the Omicron variant continued to spread rapidly - Mr Morrison went further and specifically denounced mask mandates which were the subject of hot debate after NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet scrapped them on December 15 along with density limits and QR code check-ins.

In a clumsy metaphor, he compared wearing a mask to applying sunscreen by insisting it was a personal choice that should not be enforced.

All Australians know you can't trust a word Scott Morrison says. He's saying one thing to Perth, and something different in Parramatta Labor health spokesman Mark Butler

'We don't have to mandate people wearing sunscreen and hats in summer,' he said.

The comment drew criticism from Labor's Anthony Albanese who said it was a false analogy because wearing a mask benefits others too.

On a visit to Bribie Island near Brisbane on December 21, Mr Morrison doubled down and urged premiers to treat Australians 'like adults'.

'We have put in place measures that Australians can live with. And what that means is we have to move from a culture of mandates to a culture of responsibility,' he declared.

'As a country, we've got to get past the heavy hand of government and we've got to treat Australians like adults, and we all have our own responsibility in our communities and for our own health.'

Two days later on January 23, Premier Perrottet reintroduced mask mandates as case numbers hit record highs in New South Wales and the Prime Minister faced heightened criticism for loudly supporting the original decision to scrap them.

Mr Morrison then quietened his pro-freedom rhetoric and bunkered down for Christmas.

On a visit to Bribie Island (pictured) near Brisbane on December 21, Mr Morrison doubled down on his opposition to mask mandates and urged premiers to treat Australians 'like adults'

Mr Morrison has quietened down on his pro-freedom rhetoric since the Omicron wave struck the nation's east coast late last year. Above, shoppers wear masks in Sydney this week

Qantas boss Alan Joyce (centre) on Monday insisted that keeping the border closed was pointless when there is so much Covid in Australia already

With 106,000 Covid cases recorded on 12 January, Mr Albanese accused the Prime Minister of recklessly endangering lives by favouring a 'let it rip' tactic.

Instead of defending his pro-freedom position, Mr Morrison responded by talking up all the restrictions that were still in place, even recognising that mask wearing was a key tool for slowing the spread and boasting about his tough international borders.

'It isn't a policy of just letting it go, that is a complete falsehood,' he told reporters in a press conference on January 19.

'In Australia, we have isolation and we have testing where necessary. We have masks and distancing rules. We have density arrangements tailored to the circumstances in each state and territory. We have strong border controls which we stand up for and we protect.'

As businesses struggled with staff shortages due to the spread of the virus and Australians battled to find scarce rapid antigen tests, the Government's poll ratings slumped to a devastating three-year low, putting it 12 points behind Labor.

In a speech to the National Press Club on February 1, Mr Morrison explained the dip by admitting he had let Australians down by 'raising their hopes' ahead of summer.

'I think we were too optimistic, perhaps, and we could have communicated more clearly about the risks and challenges that we still faced,' he said.

Premier McGowan has not announced when his state will open its borders

A border checkpoint outside Perth last year during localised lockdowns. The Prime Minister is being slammed for suddenly supporting the state's hard border with the rest of the nation

The Prime Minister's backflip culminated on Thursday when he extraordinarily backed Western Australia's decision to stay shut to the rest of the world, despite months of railing against state border closures.

Asked in a Perth radio interview if Premier Mark McGowan did the right thing by deferring his opening date beyond February 5, the Prime Minister replied: 'Yeah I think he did.'

The supportive comments marked a dramatic change for Mr Morrison, who in November blasted Mr McGowan for keeping his border shut contrary to the national reopening plan which said there would be no domestic restrictions once 80 per cent of people are vaccinated.

'Once you go over 80 per cent and you keep things locked down, you are doing more harm than good to your economy,' Mr Morrison told reporters back then.

As recently as December 13 - even with Omicron spreading - the Prime Minister had spoken about the importance of ending internal borders, saying: 'Australia is going to be connected and together again. This will be welcome news for thousands of Western Australians looking forward to reuniting with family and friends after so long apart'.

Labor Health Minister Mr Butler savaged the change of tune, telling Daily Mail Australia: 'All Australians know you can't trust a word Scott Morrison says.

'He's saying one thing to Perth, and something different in Parramatta.'
China has lashed Australia for potentially spreading Covid-19 to the Kingdom of Tonga in providing foreign aid after the nation's recent volcanic eruption and tsunami.

Tonga went into lockdown from 6pm on Wednesday after five cases were detected in the community. They are Tongas first cases of community transmission and two were asymptomatic aid workers working at the Queen Salote Wharf.

The island nation is recovering from the eruption of the Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Haapai volcano, 65km north of the capital Nukualofa on January 15.

Australia has committed $3 million to the recovery effort.

The ADF unloads aid supplies at Fua'amotu International Airport, Tonga last month. Source: AAP

Last week, 23 confirmed cases of Covid-19 were detected on board Australia's HMAS Adelaide, which arrived in Tonga to deliver aid supplies. The ship is currently suffering a power outage.

Chen Hong, a professor and director of the Australian Studies Centre, East China Normal University, told Chinese state-run newspaper The Global Times, Australia is showcasing itself without considering Tongas best interests.

Defence Minister Peter Dutton told reporters on Tuesday steps are being taken to mitigate the risk of spreading infections, such as spraying equipment and offering contactless aid delivery.

Minister for Defence Peter Dutton MP said steps have been made to ensure Covid-19 isn't spread into Tonga from Australian aid workers. Source: AAP

The Global Times, on the other hand, said Mr Dutton's words were "hardly convincing" and called Australias aid irresponsible.

"Since you are offering foreign aid, it is important to prioritize the wellbeing and safety of the people you mean to help. But the Australian government totally disregards that," Mr Chen told the paper.

...Australia and other Western countries are clearly short in prudency."

'Won't make that much of a difference'

Marian Kupu, a journalist in Tonga, told Yahoo News Australia there arent any concerns of foreign aid at this stage spreading infections in the community.

She added it was confirmed no infections came from the Australian aid ship.

Damage seen along Vuna Road in Nuku'alofa after the eruption last month. Source: AAP

Weve been having flights and shipments from outside since Covid started around the world, so weve been taking precautions ever since. I think having the supplies and aid for the tsunami wont make that much of a difference because weve been having imports and exports over the past few years, Kupu said.

Story continues

China vs Australia: The battle for Pacific power

The criticism from China is just another chapter in the ongoing war of words between the two nations.

Sources in China told The Global Times in July last year Australia had been blocking Chinas vaccine offerings to Papua New Guinea.

The state-run publication said Canberra was attempting to stamp its authority in the region by enforcing its own vaccines on PNG and other Pacific nations. A source claimed Australia had threatened to cut investment in PNG if it welcomed Chinese vaccines.

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin accused Australia of political manipulation and bullying coercion.

Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai erupts last month triggering wild conditions felt across the globe. Source: Supplied

Dr Tess Newton Cain, Project Lead at Griffith Asia Institute's Pacific Hub, told Yahoo News Australia the vaccine has been used as "diplomatic capital on all sides".

"Everyone is using it as a way of projecting their diplomatic profile into the region," she said.

Much of the ongoing bad blood between China and Australia stems back to the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic in the early stages of 2020.

Australia called for an investigation into the origins of Covid-19 with the belief it may have originated from China.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.
Photo Illustration by Thomas Levinson/The Daily Beast/Getty

As we approach the one year anniversary of Donald Trumps failed coup attempt and violent insurrection in our nations capital, the GOP remains zealously committed to ensuring minority rule. Theyll do it by following the playbook established by Prime Minister Viktor Orbans authoritarian rule in Hungary.

Hungary, the bete noire of the European Union, is no longer considered a normal democracy and is referred to as a hybrid regime after a decade of Orban and his Fidesz party systematically chipping away at democratic institutions and freedoms.

Naturally, this backsliding democracy is seen as a blueprint for the GOP and conservative activists who want to preserve power in the hands of a white Christian minority.

The United States was designated as a backsliding democracy for the first time by a European think tank this year in its annual review of democracies around the world, in part thanks to Trumps promotion of the Big Lie. So it was only fitting that earlier this week Trump pledged his complete support to Orban, currently running for re-election, and praised him as a strong leader who has done a powerful and wonderful job in protecting Hungary Orban had praised and supported Trump in 2016, and again in 2020. Birds of a hateful, vulgarian feather flock and feast together.

Love Wajahat Alis Columns? Check Out This Special Event

Like Trump, Orbans wonderful job includes ginning up political support by going all-in with xenophobia, anti-Muslim bigotry, and antisemitic conspiracy theories while telling his white Christian base that brown-skinned immigrants were going to replace them. In 2015, Orban installed a fence on Hungarys border with Serbia and Croatia to protect his country and its civilization from Muslim invaders. In 2018, Orban declared, We must state that we do not want to be diverse. He added: We do not want our own colour, traditions and national culture to be mixed with those of others.

Story continues

In Hungarys updated eighth-grade history textbook, students are taught that it can be problematic for different cultures to coexist, and that refugees are a threat.

Like Trump, Orban also has a fondness for indulging in antisemitic conspiracy theories, often blaming George Soros, a Jewish American billionaire born in Hungary, for supposedly leading a globalist conspiracy to assault their society. The delicious irony is that Orban, like Trump, is actually an elitisthe studied civil society at Oxford University, funded in part by a Soros grant.

Unlike Trump, however, Orban has succeeded in retaining power since 2010. This, in part, explains why Steve Bannon sees Orban as a hero, who he said in 2018 was the most significant guy on the scene right now. Bannon also referred to Orban as Trump before Trump for his successful ability to merge white Christian nationalism and anti-immigrant populism into a mobilizing political force.

Last year, former Vice President Mike Pence visited Hungary to attend a conference on conservative values. The American Conservative Union is planning to host a version of its influential CPAC conference in Budapest. Tucker Carlson hosted his top-rated Fox News show from Budapest last year, and praised Orbans leadership. The Fox News demagogue loved Hungarys barbed-wire fence and said the border area was perfectly clean and orderly, and free from the chaos he sees in the United States. He glossed over all of the horrific human rights abuses that have been documented. Enamored by Orbans Valhallah, Carlson told his American viewers that Hungary offers a lot of lessons for the rest of us.

I wonder what those lessons could be?

The Visible Deterioration in American Democracy Is Just the Start

Orbans commitment to the antisemitic replacement theory, xenophobia, and promotion of white Christian nationalism were enough for Carlson and conservatives to overlook his coziness with China and promotion of vaccines. Rob Dreher, the conservative writer who currently attacks the windmill of wokeness and suggested to Carlson that he visit, admires Orban because he takes hard stances to protect the stability and cultural continuity of the nation, which is doing a lot of work to simply say hes keeping the Muslims, gays, feminists and liberals at bay.

Protecting such a fragile ethno-nationalistic utopia means you have to break some eggs. In the case of Hungary, that means cracking democracy. Over the past decade, Orban has consolidated power for himself and his Fidesz party by purging the judiciary and then stuffing it with party loyalists, attacking liberal educational institutions, rewriting textbooks, stifling press freedoms, changing election laws to favor his party, investing in artistic and cultural propaganda, and defunding non-profit groups that pose a potential threat to his xenophobic ideology and rule.

Sound familiar? In the U.S., the GOP has actively promoted the Big Lie, attacked critical race theory as a Trojan horse for any discussion on diversity and inclusion, advocated banning books, implemented widespread voter suppression, gerrymandered districts, stacked the judiciary with right-wing hacks who operate like zealous culture warriors, and created an influential media echo chamber thats radicalized millions of Americans with disinformation. GOP elected officials are also aligned with violent right wing movements such as the Oath Keepers and the Proud Boys, whom President Trump instructed to stand back and stand by. Many of them were present to help try and overthrow a free and fair election on Jan. 6, as Trump and his minions followed the six-point memo written by right-wing lawyer and activist John Eastman in their failed coup attempt. Ten individuals who participated in the violent insurrection have since been elected to office.

Currently, the GOP is purging its party of individuals who are placing the country above party, such as Rep. Liz Cheney who voted with Trump 93 percent of the time but thought a violent coup was a bit too much. Instead, loyalists at the state levels are promising to overturn the will of the people and install their own electors if necessary. Like a cheap and efficient James Bond villain, they are literally telling us their plot and their aspirations in the opening minutes of the movie. We dont have to do any detective or spy work.

Its all there, and Orban is their north star.

The European Union now regrets ignoring Orban's xenophobia and authoritarian rise over the years. Like a virus, that unchecked threat has spread and now threatens liberal democracy on the continent. American institutions can learn from their failures. We still have time. We need to view the GOP as a dangerous, authoritarian cult rather than a normal political party. It isnt that, and hasnt been for a long time.

The GOP wont stop until they install their own version of Viktor Orban, and for keeps this time. Democrats and the majority in this country have less than a year to recognize the threat and respond accordingly.

Or, we can all learn to love Hungarian goulash.

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The federal government has defended its efforts to preserve the World Heritage status of the Great Barrier Reef, arguing all the worlds coral reefs are threatened by climate change, not just Australias, and global action on emissions is needed to protect them.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation issued a draft recommendation in June that the Great Barrier Reef should be listed as an in danger World Heritage site.

There have been five mass coral bleaching events since 1998 that affected more than 98 per cent of the Great Barrier Reef. Credit:Eddie Jim

Australia in effect won a stay of execution in July by garnering enough international support, with 12 of the 21 countries on the UNESCO committee backing its proposal to delay a vote.

Climate change is driving a dramatic increase in coral bleaching, which occurs when the sea surface temperature is too hot for too long. There have been five mass coral bleaching events since 1998 that affected more than 98 per cent of the Great Barrier Reef.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
American archaeologists have criticized Australian researchers who said they believe they've found the wreck of British explorer Captain Cook's ship off Rhode Island, calling the announcement 'premature' and breach of contract in their joint research.

On Thursday, director and CEO of the Australian National Maritime Museum, Kevin Sumption confirmed that the shipwreck of Cook's vessel 'the Endeavour' had been identified in Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, where maritime archaeologists had been investigating several 18th century shipwrecks since 1999.

Cook famously sailed the ship around the South Pacific before he landed on the east coast of Australia in 1770 - with the wreckage is now believed to have been laying in US waters for almost 250 years.

The last sighting of the HMS Endeavour was around 1778 during the Revolutionary War when it is believed the ship was sold, renamed the Lord Sandwich, and then used to transport British troops before it was scuttled in Newport Harbor.

HMS Endeavour is believed to have been found in Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, where it has spent the last two centuries. Pictured is the Endeavour replica ship

Just 15 per cent of the vessel remains with researchers now focused on what can be done to protect and preserve it

The HMS Endeavour is one of the most famous ships in naval history and was used for Captain Cook's discovery of the East Coast of Australia in 1770

Pictured, a replica of the HMS Endeavour. The HMS Endeavour is one of the most famous ships in naval history and was used for Captain Cook's discovery of the East Coast of Australia in 1770

Maritime archaeologists had been investigating several 18th century shipwrecks in Newport Harbor since 1999

Dr. Kathy Abbass, (pictured) executive director of Rhode Island Marine Archaeology said Sumption got ahead of himself with the announcement

But Dr. Kathy Abbass, executive director of Rhode Island Marine Archaeology said Sumption got ahead of himself with the announcement, and any official findings will be 'driven by proper scientific process and not Australian emotions or politics'.

Dr. Abbass added that Rhode Island Marine Archaeology is the charge of the investigation and the Australian National Maritime Museum does not have the authority to confirm any such findings without their approval.

'The Australian National Maritime Museum announcement today is a breach of the contract... for the conduct of this research and how its results are to be shared with the public,' Dr Abbass said.

'What we see on the shipwreck site under study is consistent with what might be expected of the Endeavour, but there has been no indisputable data found to prove the site is that iconic vessel, and there are many unanswered questions that could overturn such an identification.

'RIMAP is now and always has been the lead organization for the study in Newport harbor.'

The Australian National Maritime Museum issued an immediate and defiant response, saying Ms Abbass 'can have her opinion and we've got ours'.

'We don't believe we are in breach of contract,' a spokesperson said.

'We are about to embark on a due process of putting the paper out to the archaeological community and so further insights will be made as happens with all archaeological projects.

'She can have her opinion and we've got ours.'

Captain James Cook (pictured) commanded the HMS Endeavour to Australia during his voyage of discovery in the late 1700s

A cutaway painting of Captain Cook's HMS Endeavour ship during its famous voyage of discovery

The HMS Endeavour is one of the most famous ships in naval history and was used for Captain Cook's discovery of the East Coast of Australia in 1770.

'It's arguably one of the most important vessels in Australia's maritime history,' Mr Sumption told reporters.

'I am satisfied that this is the final resting place of one of the most important and contentious vessels in Australia's maritime history,'

The last pieces of the puzzle had to be confirmed before I felt able to make this call.

'Based on archival and archaeological evidence, I'm convinced it's the Endeavour.'

'It's an important historical moment, as this vessel's role in exploration, astronomy and science applies not just to Australia, but also Aotearoa New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.'

Several details on the wreck convinced archaeologists they had found Endeavour after matching structural details and the shape of the remains to those on 18th century plans of Endeavour.

Just 15 per cent of the vessel remains with researchers now focused on what can be done to protect and preserve it.

'We will continue to investigate and look closely with maritime experts at Rhode Island about the future of this site and what should happen to this site but certainly protection is what we're working towards right now,' Sumption said.

Marine archaeologists believe they have pinpointed the exact place where the scuttled remains of Captain James Cook's HMS Endeavour ship (a replica of the ship is pictured) are located

Researchers are finalizing their report on the site, which will be peer-reviewed and published.

The HMS Endeavour was first launched in 1764 as the Earl of Pembroke, and then renamed His Majesty's Bark the Endeavour after it was purchased four years later by the British Royal Navy.

The vessel was sent out to explore the Pacific Ocean in August 1768 both to observe the 1769 transit of Venus across the sun, and search for the continent which was then called Terra Australis Incognita, or unknown Southern land.

The previous transit of Venus in 1639 had provided a vast amount of the information astronomers and scientists had about the size of the solar system and universe.

The ship departed from Plymouth with 94 people on board, including Captain James Cook.

After travelling down the coast of Africa before cutting across the Atlantic, it arrived in Rio de Janeiro in November of that year.

The boat then set out to round Cape Horn, which it managed to do on its third attempt in January after wind, stormy weather and difficult conditions foiled Cook's first two attempts.

In April the ship reached Tahiti, where it stayed for the next four months and where astronomer Charles Green was able to study the transit of Venus in June.

After months exploring the Pacific for islands, the Endeavour reached the coast of New Zealand in October, becoming the first European vessel to land on the island in over 100 years.

Dutch explorer Abel Tasman had previously reached the islands of New Zealand and Tasmania during his 1642 journey while with the Dutch East India Company.

Cook spent six months exploring and mapping the coast of New Zealand and claimed the land for Great Britain before sailing west.

In April of 1770 individuals on the ship first spotted Australia, and on April 29 the HMS Endeavour became the first European vessel to make landfall on the east coast of the island.

Cook spent four months charting the coast and at one point ran into trouble when the ship struck part of the Great Barrier Reef.

The ship was 24 miles off the coast at the time with not enough life boats, but managed to clear the water from the hull of the ship and make its way safely back to shore.

The ship continued to explore the east cost of Australia, and in November was taken out of the water to have major repairs done before setting sail back to Great Britain.

It set sail the day after Christmas, and in March rounded the Cape of Good Hope before docking in Cape Town.

On July 12 it made its way into port in Dover, almost three years after it first left from Plymouth.

Cook was later promoted to Commander and explored the Pacific twice more on the HMS Resolution.

He was killed in 1779 during a fight with Hawaiians on the island.

The Endeavor soon become a naval transport ship, and was sold to a shipping magnate just before the start of the Revolutionary War.

That individual then tried to sell the ship back to the British when the demand for ships increased during the war but they would not accept the vessel given its age and what it had been through over the years.

The seller then made the decision to rename the boat Lord Sandwich and try to sell it again, which worked after the boat underwent serious repairs.

It was sent to Rhode Island as a prison ship when the British attempted to recapture the port city of Newport in 1778, and there it was blown up in hopes of creating a blockade in the harbor during the Battle of Rhode Island.
Allen had always pictured herself one of those people that shows up to the funeral with my arms crossed, standing at the back going its all just a bit of a farce. No attachment whatsoever. Instead, by the time she delivered her mothers eulogy, she realised she had lost a best friend. Im so grateful to have gotten to know who she was and what drove the behaviours that I didnt like. She was a really damaged person, as you would be given that experience. Sally McKenzie, left, and Jules Allen in Betty. That experience. At the heart of Betty the play is Betty the sister, who died when Allens mother was 11. In the days after her death, Allens mother was sent from the family home in Thailand to a boarding school in Australia, robbed of connections in this strange new land. She had no way of processing the tragedy that had sent her into exile, and the resulting pain rippled out into generational trauma. It didnt help that when Allens mother was finally reunited with her family, daughter in tow, she was told that the dead Betty had returned from the grave.

Grandma and (aunt) Napah thought I was her reincarnated, they really did. They treated me like her. I dont think I fully understood it. I knew it caused something in Mum that she didnt like. I knew I was treated incredibly well by them, spoiled rotten. I felt like royalty. This only compounded the divide between mother and daughter  Allens mum had endured a difficult childhood, only to see her family showering young Jules with the affection she had been denied. Throughout her travels Allen has again and again seen the same complex dynamic play out, in which a mothers love for her daughter is mixed with resentment, overly high expectations and ensuing guilt. She calls it envious attack. Loading I did it with my daughter, and weve talked about it and Ive apologised many times, but I did it too, she says. You love them, but I know my tolerance for my sons is incredibly different to my daughters. I try and discuss that openly as much as I can without causing harm, but Im very aware of it. The self-reproach that follows these envious attacks illustrates the complexity of the process: Allen used to joke to friends that the placenta was just a bag of guilt. Because I didnt feel guilt until I had children, and Ive felt nothing but guilt since. I dont think theres a parent on the planet who wouldnt say that. Theres love and guilt and shame and generosity.
The Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra is celebrating 20 years with Maestro Kirk Muspratt this season.

The public can join in the festivities at a pre-concert party from 4:30 to 6:45 p.m. on Friday, March 4 at Gamba Ristorante at 455 E. 84th Drive in Merrillville.

People can enjoy hors doeuvres, desserts and an open bar before the symphony performs its Rach & Blue concert at Living Hope Church at 9000 W. Taft St. in Merrillville.

Northwest Indiana has been my artistic home for the past 20 seasons, Muspratt said. I thank you for welcoming this Canadian musician into your lives, and I hope that I have contributed something of quality, beauty and joy to yours.

Muspratt also is the director of the New Philharmonic, the DuPage Opera Theatre and the South Shore Summer Music Festival. He was named Conductor of the Year by the Illinois Council of Orchestras in 2018 and was described as a knowledgeable musician who delivers superbly controlled, gorgeously shaped readings by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Tickets to the party cost $125 each or $1,000 for a table of eight. It does not include tickets for the concert, which can be purchased separately for between $35 and $75 or $10 for students.

The symphony performance will feature pianist Wael Farouk. Also slated to be performed on Thursday, March 3, Rach & Blue will mix classical and contemporary compositions such as Rachmaninoffs Piano Concerto No. 2 and Gershwins Rhapsody in Blue.

Muspratt also will give a lecture on Rach & Blue at 10 a.m. on Feb. 21 as part of South Shore Arts' Art in Focus lecture series.

For more information, call 219-836-0525 or visit NISOrchestra.org.
Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 1:55 - 0:00 transcript ISIS Leader Kills Himself With a Bomb During U.S. Raid in Syria President Biden said the leader of the Islamic State died during a raid by U.S. Special Operation forces. All of the American troops returned safely from the operation, he said. Knowing that this terrorist had chosen to surround himself with families, including children, we made a choice to pursue a special forces raid at a much greater risk than to our own people, rather than targeting him with an airstrike. We made this choice to minimize civilian casualties. This operation is testament to Americas reach and capability to take out terrorist threats, no matter where they try to hide anywhere in the world. President Biden said the leader of the Islamic State died during a raid by U.S. Special Operation forces. All of the American troops returned safely from the operation, he said. Credit Credit... Mohamed Aldaher, via Reuters

President Biden said on Thursday that the leader of the Islamic State died during a raid by U.S. Special Operations commandos in a risky pre-dawn attack in northwest Syria. Rescue workers said women and children were among at least 13 people killed during the raid.

In brief remarks at the White House, Mr. Biden said the choice to use Special Forces to target the ISIS leader, Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, was made to minimize civilian casualties, despite the greater risk to American troops.

Speaking in the Roosevelt Room at the White House, Mr. Biden was understated as he described the ISIS leaders history, saying that he had ordered a series of atrocities, including against the Yazidi people. Thanks to the bravery of our troops, this horrible terrorist leader is no more, he said.

Mr. Biden said Mr. al-Qurayshi died when he exploded a bomb, killing himself and members of his family.

Mr. Biden said that the raid served as a warning to terrorist groups.

This operation is testament to Americas reach and capability to take out terrorist threats no matter where they try to hide anywhere in the world, he said.

Before his White House remarks, Mr. Biden said in a statement, All Americans have returned safely from the operation.

John F. Kirby, the Pentagons chief spokesman, addressed the casualties associated with the raid in a news conference on Thursday afternoon. To the degree theres loss of innocent lives, its caused by Abdullah and his lieutenants, he said, using a nickname for Mr. al-Quaryshi. He said the U.S. forces were able to evacuate 10 civilians from the building, including several children.

Asked about the timing of the raid, which officials said was months in the planning, Mr. Kirby said multiple factors played a role: intelligence levels, certainty about the ISIS leaders location, weather and operational conditions (it was a virtually a moonless night, ideal for night operations).

A lot of factors had to line up to be just right, said Mr. Kirby. This was the best window to execute the mission.

The helicopter-borne assault was carried out by about two dozen American commandos, backed by helicopter gunships, armed Reaper drones and attack jets. The operation resembled the raid in October 2019 in which Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the previous leader of the Islamic State, died when he detonated a suicide vest as U.S. forces raided a hideout not far from where Thursdays operation took place.

The operation came days after the end of the largest U.S. combat involvement with the Islamic State since the end of the jihadists so-called caliphate three years ago. American forces backed a Kurdish-led militia in northeastern Syria as it fought for more than a week to oust Islamic State fighters from a prison they had occupied in the city of Hasaka.

Little is known about Mr. al-Qurayshi, who succeeded Mr. al-Baghdadi, or about ISISs top command structure. But analysts said the death of the Islamic State leader was a significant blow to the terrorist group.

U.S. helicopters ferried the commandos into position after midnight, surrounding a house in Atmeh, a town close to the border with Turkey in rebel-held Idlib Province, according to eyewitnesses, social media reports and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a conflict monitor based in Britain.

Atmeh Turkey Aleppo idlib 20 mileS Syria TURKEY Hasaka Detail area SYRIA Damascus IRAQ LEBANON

A tense standoff ensued, with loudspeakers blaring warnings in Arabic for everyone in the house to surrender, neighbors said. Then an explosion rocked the building. After that, some of the houses occupants had not emerged and a major battle erupted, with heavy machine gun fire and, apparently, missile strikes.

During the operation, one of the American helicopters suffered a mechanical problem, was forced to land and was later destroyed by American attack aircraft. After about three hours, the American commandos and their remaining helicopters flew off, witnesses said.

Given the fluid nature of early reports in a complex raid like Thursdays operation, the militarys initial version may be incomplete. Accounts of other events have at times turned out to be contradictory or sometimes flat wrong.

Reporting was contributed by Falih Hassan , Muhammad Najdat Hij Kadour, Asmaa al-Omar , Hwaida Saad and Evan Hill . John Ismay
Scott Morrison denounced a Christian college's anti-LGBTIQ 'contract' and vowed to ban schools from expelling queer students.

Citipointe Christian College demanded parents sign a contract that denounced homosexuality and promised students would conform to gender roles.

The Brisbane school threatened to expel students whose parents didn't sign, or who identified as gay or transgender.

Mr Morrison in response to widespread outrage said his government's controversial religious discrimination bill would be amended to prevent student discrimination.

Christian groups have slammed Scott Morrison for 'betraying' them after he denounced Citipointe Christian College's anti-LGBTIQ+ 'contract' and announced religious discrimination bill amendments

'No, I don't support that. I mean, my kids go to a Christian school here in Sydney, and I wouldn't want my school doing that either,' Mr Morrison told Brisbane's B105.3 radio.

'And the bill that we're going to be taking through the Parliament, we will have an amendment which will deal with that to ensure that the kids cannot be discriminated against on that basis.'

However, he added that schools 'should be able to teach' children in alignment with their religion.

Following the surprise announcement, Citipointe withdrew the contract and said it would revert to its previous enrolment requirements.

Following the Citipointe controversy Mr Morrison announced amendments would be made to his government's religious discrimination act to protect LGBTIQ+ students in the future

'We have considered that the process we followed in drafting and disseminating the amended enrolment contract could have been done in a better way,' Pastor Mulheran, the school's principal, said.

'The college believed that the amendments made to the enrolment contract were lawful and did not constitute discrimination.

'The college will not, and does not, discriminate in its operations.

'We deeply regret that some students may feel that they were, or would be, discriminated against because of their sexuality or gender identity.

Christian lobby group FamilyVoice slammed Mr Morrison for 'betraying' religious groups and 'ignoring the voice of the Christian community'

'The College does not and will not unlawfully discriminate against a student in respect of their sexuality or gender identity.'

Concern over LGBTIQ student discrimination was broached by four moderate Liberals in mid-December when they demanded an amendment be made to the Sex Discrimination Act the same time as the religious discrimination bill was passed.

However, Attorney-General Michaelia Cash told Christian lobby group FamilyVoice amendments to protect students would have to wait at least 12 months.

On Wednesday evening, Assistant Attorney-General Amanda Stoker said the changes to protect students would be dealt separately to the religious bill.

The Australian Christian Lobby and Christian Schools Australia have both also threatened to withdraw their support for the religious discrimination bill if amendments to protect LGBTIQ+ students are made

Scott Morrison's radio announcement on Thursday caught everyone off guard and provoked outrage from conservative church leaders and lobby groups.

'Scott Morrison has betrayed the foundation of the religious discrimination bill,' FamilyVoice told The Guardian.

'Morrison has fallen into the same trap as Bill Shorten in 2019, ignoring the voice of the Christian community.'

FamilyVoice also spoke against Citipointe's retraction of their contract, arguing the school was 'simply wanting to uphold scientific truth and the Christian worldview of human sexuality'.

'This is a sad day for all Australians and particularly faith schools as it has put religious freedom and free speech at risk,' it said.

Legal director of Equality Australia Ghassan Kassisieh said the amendment was 'long overdue' but has still called for the bill to be scrapped

The Australian Christian Lobby and Christian Schools Australia both also threatened to withdraw their support for the religious discrimination bill if amendments to protect LGBTIQ students were made.

Legal director of Equality Australia Ghassan Kassisieh said the amendment was 'long overdue' but still called for the bill to be scrapped.

'The prime minister may be putting out one small fire, but [the bill] will unleash a firestorm of discrimination in religious organisations against anyone that holds a different belief from their faith-based employer  even when they can faithfully do the job that is required of them,' he said.
(Alliance News) - Ireland's private sector remained in expansion at the start of 2022, but still remained at the lowest level since March last year, data from IHS Markit showed on Thursday.

The Ireland composite output index remained flat at 56.1 points in January, still at its lowest since March 2021. The index is a blend of the services and manufacturing purchasing managers' index readings for the month.

The AIB Ireland services PMI rose to 56.2 index points in January from 55.4 in December, reflecting stronger increases in new business and total activity.

All four sub-sectors reported higher activity in the month, with business services remaining the best performing sector since November 2020. Transport, tourism & leisure posted modest growth after a decline in December.

Financial services reported the weakest expansion in eight months, while growth from media & telecoms slowed to a ten-month low.

Overall, business activity increased for the 11th consecutive months, with the rate of growth accelerating from December's nine-month low, as the easing of Covid-related restrictions allowed trading to pick up again and tourism to gradually recover.

Looking ahead, business confidence for the next 12 months was at its strongest since May 2021.

The AIB Ireland services PMI is compiled by IHS Markit from responses to questionnaires sent to a panel of around 400 service sector companies. Data was collected between January 12 and 26.

On Tuesday, IHS Markit said the AIB Ireland manufacturing PMI rose to 59.4 points in January from December's nine-month low of 58.3.

"The AIB Irish services PMI picked up in January, having registered a marked decline in the final two months of last year. A key factor seems to have been the lifting of Covid restrictions, which boosted confidence...This is in contrast to the trend in other countries where Omicron weighed on the sector," said AIB Chief Economist Oliver Mangan.

"Meanwhile, firms in all sectors remained very optimistic on the 12 month outlook for business, with activity expected to pick up further momentum as the pandemic recedes," Mangan added.

By Dayo Laniyan; dayolaniyan@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
New Delhi: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Rauts daughters have come under the scanner of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) after the law enforcement agency carried out raids at their business partner Sujit Patkars residence pertaining to a land scam case of Rs 1034 crores.

Sujit Patkar has been a partner with Sanjay Raut daughters Purvashi and Vidhita in their wine company Magpie DFS Pvt. Ltd since the last 16 years. Patkar's wife and Sanjay Raut's wife jointly bought land in Alibag.

Meanwhile, one person named Parveen Raut, who is believed to be Patkars associate has already been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate.

Pravin Raut, a former director of a company called Guru Ashish Construction Pvt Ltd, was arrested following his questioning at the ED office in Mumbai.

Mumbai | ED arrested one Praveen Raut in connection with Rs 1034 crore land scam; Raut to be produced before the court today  ANI (@ANI) February 2, 2022

Premises linked to him were searched by the agency on Tuesday.

Raut was produced before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Mumbai that sent him to ED custody for eight days till February 9, the agency said in a statement.

Guru Ashish Construction Pvt Ltd is a subsidiary company of Housing Development Infrastructure Ltd (HDIL).

The HDIL is under investigation by the ED and a few other agencies in connection with the around Rs 4,300 crore alleged fraud at the Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank.

The ED said the company (Guru Ashish) had entered into a "tripartite agreement' with the tenants and the MHADA to re-develop the 'chawl'.

"Pravin Raut along with Rakesh Kumar Wadhawan and Sarang Wadhawan, directors of Guru Ashish Constructions Pvt Ltd, in connivance with others illegally sold FSI (floor space index) to various builders for Rs 1,034 crore.

"This was done without constructing the rehab flats and flats to be handed over to MHADA, which was the pre-requisite," it alleged.

Raut, being the director of Guru Ashish Construction Pvt Ltd, has played an "active role" in the redevelopment project, and in connivance with Rakesh Kumar Wadhawan and Sarang Wadhawan, managed to "divert" the proceeds of crime of more than Rs 1,000 crore by "harming" the interest of 672 tenants and buyers, the ED said.

"In addition to Rs 1,034 crore received from various builders, they had also obtained bank loans," the agency stated.

The ED alleged that Raut, in 2010, received Rs 95 crore in his bank account in the "guise of sale of equity and land deal though the company was not able to complete the project and had not generated any income".

The Mumbai Police economic offences wing (EOW) had first filed an FIR to probe these allegations made in the re-development of the 'chawl'.

The ED last year had also attached assets worth Rs 72 crore of Raut in connection with the PMC Bank money laundering case.

It had then said that "Rs 95 crore has been siphoned off through HDIL by one of the accused Pravin Raut in active conspiracy and connivance with various persons".

"The source of the funds was illegally availed loans/advances by HDIL from PMC Bank. There was no document or agreement in support of these payments made to Pravin Raut," the ED had alleged in a statement.

It said, "as per the ledger of HDIL, the funds were given to Pravin Raut for acquiring land in the Palghar area".

The agency had also questioned Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut's wife Varsha Raut last year in connection with the PMC Bank case and her purported links with Pravin Raut's wife.

It had been said that Pravin Raut "paid an amount of Rs 1.6 crore to his wife Madhuri Pravin Raut from the proceeds of crime. Out of the said money, Madhuri Raut transferred Rs 55 lakh (Rs 50 lakh on December 23, 2010, and Rs 5 lakh on March 15, 2011) as an interest-free loan to Varsha Raut, who is the wife of Sanjay Raut".

"The amount was further utilised for the purchase of a flat in Dadar East, Mumbai," the ED had said.

The probe found that Varsha Sanjay Raut and Madhuri Pravin Raut "are partners in Avani Construction and Varsha Raut has received Rs 12 lakh from this entity (as overdrawn capital converted to loan) on a contribution of mere Rs 5,625".

The ED had filed a criminal case of money laundering in October 2020 to probe the alleged loan fraud in the PMC Bank and had booked HDIL, its promoters Rakesh Kumar Wadhawan, his son Sarang Wadhawan, its former chairman Waryam Singh and ex-managing director Joy Thomas.

It took cognisance of a Mumbai Police economic offences wing FIR against them that charged them for causing "wrongful loss, prima facie to the tune of Rs 4,355 crore to PMC Bank, and corresponding gains to themselves."

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HSBC Insurance (Asia Pacific) Holdings (INAH), one of the shareholders in Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance, has expressed its intention to acquire Punjab National Bank's stake in the insurance company, as per a filing. "The bank has received a communication from HSBC Insurance (Asia Pacific) Holdings Ltd (INAH), one of the shareholders of the company, conveying its intention to acquire Bank's stake in the company," PNB said in the regulatory filing.

However, the communication from INAH is subject to further evaluation by PNB, it further stated.

The city-headquartered state-owned bank had acquired a stake in the life insurer post amalgamation of the erstwhile Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC) with the bank in FY20.

The erstwhile OBC held 23 per cent stake in the life insurer, which by virtue of amalgamation has come to PNB.

Canara Bank owns 51 per cent stake, while HSBC Insurance (Asia Pacific) Holdings Ltd as a foreign partner owns 26 per cent.

PNB is also a promoter of another insurer PNB Metlife Insurance, owning the highest stake of 30 per cent. The firm was set up in 2001, in which other shareholders include US-based Metlife with 26 per cent, Elpro (21 per cent) and M Pallonji & Company (18 per cent).

According to extant insurance guidelines of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai), one promoter cannot hold more than 10 per cent stake in two insurance ventures.

In May 2021, PNB had said that it will divest stake in Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance.
Fortunately, weve reached a time in history when the welfare of animals affected by military conflicts is also taken into account. Kabuls dramatic current state of affairs has also impacted a huge number of pets, leaving them without owners, and the local animal shelters are unable to face this crisis without support. Luckily, a transportation mission that was carried out yesterday shows a great deal of international support and cooperation.Approximately 300 cats and dogs were flown from a Kabul Small Animal Rescue (KSAR) mission to Vancouver, Canada. The aircraft that conducted this flight was an Ilyushin Il-76, and Glasgow residents reported hearing the aircrafts loud noise as it flew over Scotland on February 2nd, 2022. According to Flight Radar 24, the cargo airplane also made a tech stop in Reykjavik, Iceland, before landing in Vancouver.The Il-76 , developed by the Ilyushin Aircraft Company (part of the United Aircraft Corporation/UAC, which is integrated into Rostec), has been around for a very long time, in different modifications, and in 2021 it was ranked the worlds six most popular military transport aircraft . TASS reports that more than 200 Il-76s operated that year, accounting for 5% of the global military transport fleet (the US C-130 Hercules was at the top of the ranking).Its most recent modification is the IL-76MD-90A, an upgraded version that boasts more powerful engines (also claiming to be quieter), new wings, reinforced landing gear, plus updated avionics and flight decks. This rugged, heavy transport aircraft can deliver personnel, equipment, supplies, and fuel anywhere in the world, even in the Arctic region.
The third day of the Spring Festival isalsocalled the Red dog day. It derives from the Chinese fable stories. The Red Dog istheevil god,itwill bring ill luckas people run across it. By staying at home, people can avoid quarreling with others. The custom passesfrom generation to generation, and it finally formed as a tradition in many parts of China. Since mostpeople are engaged in the preparation of the Spring Festival before the New Years Eve, they prefer to have a good rest and sleepearlyon the third day of the Chinese New Year, by this means, people can get relax both mentally and physically. On the contrary, People visit their relatives and friends on the third day of the Spring Festivalin Tongcheng of Anhui Province. They dont go outside on the first and second day of the New Year. When peopledrop in on their relatives, they would bring rice cakes as gifts, and their relativeswill give rice cakes in return. Thisis the special custom in Tongcheng. The rice cakes symbolize peoples work and life will be better and better in the new year. In some areasof China, Guzis Gu zi is the Chinese name for grainsbirthday is celebrated on the third day of the Spring Festival. People are not supposedto eat rice on this day.


A 13-year-old girl who was reported missing from west London yesterday has now been found safe and well.

The Met Police in Hillingdon issued an urgent appeal to try and find the girl, named Wareesha, who was last spotted at around 3.30pm in Uxbridge.

She was described as being 5ft1 tall, wearing a black coat, grey blazer, green shirt and black trousers, with glasses and a headscarf.
U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos, D-Illinois, announced Wednesday the granting of more than $275,000 in federal funding to improve rural community infrastructure in the 17th Congressional District that she represents.

The funds were provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Eight cities in five counties will receive funds.

In Rock Island County, Carbon Cliff will received $34,000 to purchase a generator for City Hall. The generator will allow the village to maintain operations during weather-related electrical outages. The building also serves as an emergency shelter for village residents.

In Whiteside County, Morrison will receive $49,800 to replace the roof on the Odell Public Library. The city will replace the existing asphalt roof with metal roofing to ensure the continuation of services. The library serves 4,188 residents in Whiteside County.

Also in Whiteside County, Tampico will receive $65,000 to install a new HVAC system in the Reagan Community Center. The building houses the villages administrative offices, a day care and the police station. It also is open to the public for community and private events.

Prophetstown, also in Whiteside County, will receive $20,100 to purchase a squad car. The city will purchase a 2022 truck with equipment for law enforcement.

In Knox County, Altona will receive $18,300 to purchase and install a new storm siren. The villages current siren does not reach the entire community.

In Henderson County, the Henderson County Library District will receive $5,800 to purchase and install four furnaces. The current units are more than 20 years old, and two of them have had major problems. Also, Lomax will receive $44,000 to purchase a 2021 Dodge Durango all-wheel-drive vehicle for the police department.

In Fulton County, Lewistown will receive $24,700 to purchase a snow plow.

Rural communities are the very heart of northern, northwestern and central Illinois, Bustos said. Ensuring they receive the federal resources and support they deserve has been one of my top priorities since taking office.
Rajya Sabha Chairman M on Thursday said he is examining the privilege motions moved against Union Minister for Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw for 'misleading' parliament on the Pegasus issue.

After examination, a clarification will be sought from the minister. The decision to admit or reject would be taken depending on that.

Naidu said in the Rajya Sabha that Congress' KC Venugopal and two more MPs have given notice of privilege against the IT minister.

"I am examining it," he said. "Once I examine it, I will have to seek the clarification of the minister and then we will get back to you."



Leaders of the Congress, TMC and CPI have moved privilege motions against Vaishnaw following a report in the New York Times claiming that the Indian government bought the Israeli spyware in 2017 as part of a USD 2 billion package for weapons.

The government maintained on the floor of the House that it had nothing to do with Pegasus and that it never bought the spyware from the NSO Group.

Most of the last winter session of Parliament was hit by the Pegasus controversy after reports alleged that the government was using the military-grade Israeli spyware to target political leaders, journalists, judges and civil society activists.

Earlier, when the House met for the day, Naidu said he has rejected a notice under rule 267 on the Pegasus issue.

Admission of a notice under rule 267 calls for setting aside the business of the day to take up the issue being listed in the notice.

"There is a notice under (rule) 267 for which I have already given my decision yesterday about Pegasus. I am not accepting it," he said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Like several other Italian fashion brands, Ferragamo is a family business with deep roots. The famous Salvatore Ferragamos sons carried on his legacy, and last year, Leonardo took over the non-executive president role of the fashion empire from his brother, Ferrucio Ferragamo. But Leonardo is also known for being involved in the luxury yacht world, with a controlling interest in the Finnish yard Nautors Swan, since 1998. He has owned no less than six sailing yachts delivered by this yard, and the majestic Solleone is his seventh.Built in 2015, on the yards Swan 115-001 S platform, the Solleone is 115-foot (35 meters) long, with enough room for up to nine guests, in four cabins. Its considered one of the most beautiful performance sailing yachts, which is obvious from the sleek exterior designed by German Frers, to the Italian-style interior created by Nautors Swan and the famous Michele Bonan. Inside the elegant cream-and-Navy spaces, reminding of a luxury mansion in Florence, almost everything is made by hand, Robb Report reveals.Unlike other famous yacht owners, Ferragamo made his sailing yacht available for charter very soon, for more than $100,000 per week. Its not surprising, considering that the stunning vessels annual operating costs amounted to $600,000 a few years ago. At the time, it was even recognized among the top 14 luxury yachts available for charter.The Solleone (named after Leonardos two children) also boasts a convertible layout thats family-friendly, a large swim platform, and a varied selection of water toys. Powered by one Scania engine, it can reach a top speed of 15 knots (17 mph/28 kph).Those who would like to own such a successful, remarkable sailing yacht have the chance to do so, as the Solleone is available for sale, for $16.4 million, through Fraser. The Italian fashion magnate is probably ready for luxury yacht number eight.
Sen. Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) attends a rally near the U.S. Capitol in Washington, on Sept. 13, 2021. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

New Mexico Sen. Lujan May Return in 4-6 Weeks After Stroke, Says Aide

White House sidesteps Senate majority doubts

New Mexico Sen. Ben Lujan (D-N.M.) is expected to make a full recovery and return to the Senate in four to six weeks after suffering a stroke and undergoing surgery, his office said on Wednesday.

Lujan, 49, was hospitalized last week after he began to experience dizziness and fatigue, and doctors found that he had suffered a stroke. Barring complications, the Democrat is expected to return to work, an aide to the senator told media outlets including The Washington Post.

A day earlier, his office in a statement said he underwent decompressive surgery to ease swelling after he was found to have suffered a stroke in the cerebellum, affecting his balance. The surgery temporarily removes a piece of the skull to allow a swollen brain room to expand.

Carlos Sanchez, Lujans chief of staff, said the senator was resting comfortably at UNM Hospital in Albuquerque and is expected to make a full recovery.

News of his hospitalization and absence from the Senate prompted lawmakers to point out that the Democrats, for now, no longer have a razor thin majority in the Senate. The chamber is split 50-50, with Vice President Kamala Harris able to cast tie-breaking votes.

When pressed on Wednesday whether Lujans absence will delay President Joe Bidens legislative agenda, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki sidestepped the question.

The White House has all been thinking of Sen. Lujan and his family, Psaki said.

I know his team put out an update on his recovery last night, and hes 49 years old, she told reporters at a press briefing. So, I would also note that, but I would point you to them for any specifics on his status. Of course, were thinking about him, his family, his entire team, at this point in time.

She added, Well, life is precious, as we know. You are most familiar with the average age of senators in the Senate, but that is true on both sides of the aisle.

I would just say, we spend most of our time engaging in good faith about the presidents agenda and not making those calculations.

Lujan sits on the Commerce Committee, which had hoped to push through Biden appointments on Wednesday, including Federal Communications Commission (FCC) nominee Gigi B. Sohn and Federal Trade Commission nominee (FTC) Alvaro M. Bedoyawhich would have shifted the partisan balance of the federal agencies to Democrats, according to The Post.

The Senate Commerce Committee delayed the vote on the nominees following news of Lujans illness.

Lujan won the Senate seat in 2020 after serving six terms in the House, where he was a trusted ally of Speaker Nancy Pelosi. As one of the highest-ranking Latinos in Congress, Lujan led the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, the partys arm that supports House candidates, in the 2016 and 2018 elections.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Nam June Paik's 10-meter-long installation, "Turtle" (1993), is on view at the Daewangam Park as part of the Ulsan Art Museum's series of inaugural exhibitions in the southeastern industrial city. Courtesy of the Ulsan Art Museum



By Park Han-sol



ULSAN  It was the year 1993 when the video art visionary Nam June Paik first showcased "Turtle" in Germany  his own monumental tribute to Joseon-era Admiral Yi Sun-shin (1545-98), who was renowned for successfully employing turtle ships in his naval strategies against Japanese invaders.



Nearly three decades since its inception, the 10-meter-long video sculpture, composed of 166 vintage television monitors, now emits Paik's iconic phantasmagoric collages of electronic images at the seaside Daewangam Park in the southeastern port city of Ulsan, as part of the permanent collection of the newly opened Ulsan Art Museum.



In a way, Ulsan couldn't have been a more fitting home for the piece, as the city's Ulju County is known for housing one of the world's oldest petroglyphs showing the prehistoric origins of whaling in Bangudae, a rock formation named after its shape resembling a turtle's back.



Along with Paik's two other representative installations  "Sistine Chapel," a dizzying, overlapping projection of images onto the gallery's walls and ceiling that earned the Golden Lion prize at the 1993 Venice Biennale and "Forest of Cage, Revelation of the Forest," a nod to post-war avant-garde composer John Cage  "Turtle" has become the centerpiece of the country's first public art museum that is striving to become a "museum of the future" with its media art focus.





Ulsan Art Museum Director Suh Jin-suk / Courtesy of the Ulsan Art Museum

"Ulsan's identity, both historical and contemporary, fits well with our aim to serve as a 'glocal' museum of the future that seeks harmony between ecology and technology," museum Director Suh Jin-suk told The Korea Times during a recent press tour of the gallery.



Historically, the eighth-largest city of Korea served as an important, strategic port during the Unified Silla period (668-935), where it saw rich cultural exchange between different parts of Asia, Persia and even the Roman Empire. While in modern Korea, it has been known as one of the country's industrial powerhouses, marked by Hyundai Motor's largest automobile manufacturing plant and Hyundai Heavy Industries' biggest shipyard in the world, its gradual transition to green growth and eco-friendly technologies has also been worthy of attention.



Considering such a dynamic, flexible regional identity, Suh said that Ulsan was an ideal blank slate for the Ulsan Art Museum to try out its new role as a digital, media art-centric institution that can cater to both local and global audiences.





The facade of the newly opened Ulsan Art Museum / Courtesy of Ulsan Art Museum



"During the Age of Enlightenment, museums' functions were set by institutions like the Louvre and the British Museum. This was followed by Aestheticism [and Formalism], which created a demand for 'white-cube' [gallery] environments like the Guggenheim and the MoMA," he stated. "But in the contemporary digital era, museums  such as the ZKM Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe and the idea of the 'participatory museum' set forth by designer Nina Simon  have been seeking a new, alternative shift in their roles."



This is where Ulsan Art Museum's mission to provide the physical platform and hardware to showcase cutting-edge, forward-thinking works of art comes in, materialized by its five inaugural exhibitions. So far, its ambitious goal has been met with a positive response, with the number of visitors reaching more than 32,000 in the mere three weeks since its opening on Jan. 6.





The immersive video, "We are the Primitives of a New Era" (2020), by Italian-American artist Aldo Tambellini is on display in the Ulsan Art Museum's XR Lab. Courtesy of the Ulsan Art Museum



The exhibition, "Black and Light: Aldo Tambellini," is on view at the XR (extended reality) Lab. The lab is the first of its kind in a public museum in Korea, and is dedicated to immersive media art experiences created from digital technologies, including virtual reality, mixed reality and augmented reality.



"Equipped with 24 projectors and a fourth-dimensional sound system, it's a space that will primarily be dedicated to commissioned XR-related works born from the collaboration of artists, technicians, engineers and theorists," Suh said.



The ongoing show features the rendered video of "We are the Primitives of a New Era" by Italian-American artist Aldo Tambellini, which became the last work of the late pioneer of "electromedia" before his death last year. His artistic practice, based on the tonal polarities of black and white, to visualize a mystical cycle of energy, fills the entire gallery space.





Hito Steyerl's "This is the Future" (2019) / Courtesy of the Ulsan Art Museum



The main exhibition, titled "Post Nature: Dear Nature," imagines the future of a hybrid ecosystem where humans and non-human players co-exist  not simply in conflict or in solidarity, but as a complex mixture of both. In recent years, anthropocentric or human-centered history has begun to be questioned and rewritten, and that is a fitting theme for Ulsan as a place defined by both its pristine natural surroundings and its powerful manmade industries.



Sixteen featured artists from here and abroad include Berlin-based media artist Hito Steyerl, who topped the U.K. magazine ArtReview's annual ranking of the 100 most influential people in art in 2017.



In her "This is the Future," which is being shown in Korea for the first time, images of digital, non-real plants of the future are rendered on nine digital screens, seemingly growing on metal scaffolding  a symbol of current capitalist industrial society.



The names of these virtual plants are written in Latin underneath the images, with "solutions" to the negative social phenomena that have emerged in the digital era: "social media addiction therapy," "healing of the syndrome of being silent about hate speech" and "dictator poisoning."





"Reverie Reset" (2016-17) by Yan Lei / Courtesy of Ulsan Art Museum



In Chinese artist Yan Lei's "Reverie Reset," a series of 80 digital displays are revolving in a circle as a gigantic repository of information. After scanning a QR code, viewers can submit any image they would like through their phones; these images are then interpreted by an artificial algorithm according to their average pixel colors and subsequently described in quite odd, surreal human language: "A young boy is hiding a cell phone" and "A woman is holding a child in a small hat," for example.



The museum has also unveiled its permanent collection at the show "The Brilliant Days" at Daewangam Park.



On display are contemporary masterpieces like Lee Bul's "Willing To be Vulnerable  Metalized Balloon V3" presented at the 2019 Hong Kong Art Basel Fair; "Chroma" by Kim Yun-chul, whose yearslong exploration of magnetohydrodynamics has given birth to works with hydrogel-filled tubes that show the changing state of nanoparticles; Bernd Lintermann and Peter Weibel's interactive installation "YOU:R:CODE," where a row of LED screens scan viewers' bodies and "convert" them to digital data as a collage of social media icons, genetic code and even industrial barcodes; and "Can You Hear Me?" by Indian artist Nalini Malani, known for her immersive installations exploring themes of feminism, racism and post-colonial legacies.




gettyimagesbank





The Dutch port city of Rotterdam said Wednesday it would temporarily dismantle an historic bridge to allow a superyacht built for Amazon founder Jeff Bezos to pass.







Bezos's gigantic, $485 million yacht is too big for the iconic Koningshaven Bridge, which dates from 1878 and was rebuilt after being bombed by the Nazis in 1940 during World War II.







The shipyard building the three-masted mammoth in Alblasserdam, near Rotterdam, has asked the local council to remove the bridge's central section so it can pass through.







"It's the only route to the sea," a spokesman for the mayor of Rotterdam told AFP, adding that billionaire Bezos would foot the bill for the operation.







But the decision has angered some in the Netherlands as the local council promised after a major renovation in 2017 that it would never again dismantle the bridge, known to Rotterdammers as De Hef.







The mayor's office insisted on the economic benefits and jobs created by the construction of the boat, but promised that the bridge would be rebuilt in its current form.







The middle section of the huge steel-girder bridge will be removed to give enough clearance for the 40-metre (130-foot) high boat, Dutch media reported.







The process will take a few weeks and is expected to happen this summer.







Bezos, 57, is one of the world's richest men after transforming online bookseller Amazon into a global shopping giant.







When not travelling by sea on superyachts, he can be found blasting into space in his Blue Origin capsule. (AFP)


In Sundown, he tries to be more subtle. Neil and Alice (Tim Roth and Charlotte Gainsbourg) are renting a luxury villa on a beach in Acapulco. There are two brattish adult children, Alexa (Albertine Kotting McMillan) and Colin (Samuel Bottomley), enjoying the sun and margaritas, when Alice gets a phone call. They must return to London immediately: her mother is dying.

The most recent, New Order, depicted an armed uprising by the Mexican poor which caused a military dictatorship to seize power. It won the special jury prize at Venice in 2020 and made him a social media pariah at home, because most of the rioters had darker skin than the rich people they were assaulting.

Michel Franco is a 42-year-old Mexican director of considerable ambition and talent, although its probably fair to say his films are lauded more outside his country than in.

As they reach the airport, Neil says he has left his passport in the hotel  except he hasnt. When they leave, he takes a taxi to the main town and rents a room in a fleabag hotel by the beach. He drinks beer all day, eats grilled seafood and pretends, in a series of phone calls with Alice, that his new passport is taking longer than expected. Around this layabout lifestyle, we notice that the lives of the poor produce nasty, violent outcomes  certainly one of the main ideas of the movie.

This is Francos second film with Tim Roth. In Chronic, from 2015, Roth played a private nurse who helped the dying in ways that continually got him fired. It was Roth at his best, gliding between arrogance and compassion. This new movie gives us a similarly opaque character, favouring the former over the latter.

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For the first 20 minutes, I thought Neil and Alice were married, but they are siblings. The children are hers. Franco happily leads us up this garden path. In fact, he breaks a cardinal rule by withholding information throughout.

Its tricky for any film-maker: when do you reveal your surprises? If you dont have any, the film might be boring, but withholding too long cheats the audience. The revelations have to be organic, not artificially delayed. It takes an hour here to work out why Neil is behaving as he is: he appears simply to be the most self-centred git in Acapulco, especially when a young Mexican woman (Iazua Larios) becomes his lover. Franco may be making a point about the effects of disparity in wealth but why base it on a narrative trick?
At one point in The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild, the twin heroes find themselves in a familiar place and voice what many in the audience are quietly thinking.

Have we been here before? asks the slightly dim possum named Eddie. Replies his equally dim brother, Crash: It does kinda look familiar.

Yes, weve been here before. This is the sixth Ice Age feature  not counting two TV specials  and its all alarmingly familiar even as it tries to refocus away from the original stars: Sid the sloth, Mannie and Ellie the mammoths, and Diego the saber-toothed tiger, none of whom are voiced by celebrities this time.

Screenplay writers Jim Hecht, Ray DeLaurentis and Will Schifrin have reached back to recruit many old friends for this spin-off. Crash and Eddie first appeared in Ice Age: The Meltdown, the one-eyed, dinosaur-hunting weasel of the title has been around for a few films now and the whole thing is set in the same underground world that was introduced in Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs. Even Momma Dino makes a cameo.

There are two welcome new characters: Justina Machado voices a cool, striped polecat named Zee and Utkarsh Ambudkar is the bad guy, a big-brained dinosaur named Orson. They add a critical freshness or else the film would seem to last as long as a real ice age.

The plot is a possum-coming-of-age tale. Crash and Eddie (now voiced by Aaron Harris and Vincent Tong) feel stifled by their motley crew of a herd and sneak off. Its time for us to make our own destiny, one says. And maybe even make our own lunch, says the other.

The two accidentally discover (again) the Lost World and are protected by Buck, a confirmed bachelor with a pirates heart voiced by Simon Pegg. The possums will need his help because Orson hopes to destroy the underground peace with an army of raptors.

Dinos rule, mammals drool! he says.

Buck and Zee are yin and yang here. Hes the rush-in-without-a-plan guy and shes more practical.

Well never defeat Orson if you keep going all buck wild without thinking first, she tells him.

Hes got nice advice for the twin possums: Its not powers that make you a superhero. Its courage and resourcefulness.

Making Eddie and Crash the heroes this time is a bit of a gamble since theyve always been just humorous sidekicks. But it mostly pays off since little viewers will see a pair of kids standing up for themselves and learning to be courageous. Or as one creature notes: What they lack in intelligence, they make up for with bumbling ineptitude.

Director John C. Donkin, a longtime part of the franchise, doesnt mess with the visual language. There is always a tiny pause when creatures hang in midair before falling and there are lots of martial arts flips. In all the bathroom humor  yes, Buck crack is a joke  there are attempts to make the adults laugh: I love the smell of skunky gas in the morning and Use your feeling words.

The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild is actually a little better than you might expect on its sixth outing. There are lessons for the kids about how the strong mustnt dominate the weak, about independence and change, and new families that can be born of love not blood.

But visually and storytelling-wise, its not a cut above much of what kids can watch on TV these days. This is a franchise that looks like its slowly going the way of the dinos.
Relations between Russia and China have reached an unprecedented level and become a model of efficiency, responsibility and aspiration for the future, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an article for Chinas Xinhua news agency, published on the Kremlin website on Thursday, Tass informs.

February 3, 2022, 10:41 Putin lauds Russian-Chinese relations as model of efficiency, responsibility

STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 3, ARTSAKHPRESS: The article, titled Russia and China: A Future-Oriented Strategic Partnership, came out ahead of Putins February 4 visit to Beijing, where he will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and attend the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympic Games.

According to the Russian president, he is "pleased to address directly the large Chinese and foreign audience of Xinhua, the world's largest news agency."
CoLearn, one of the fast-growing edtech platforms in Southeast Asia, on Thursday announced that it has raised an additional $17 million as part of its Series A follow-on funding from TNB Aura, KTB Network, and BINUS GROUP, with participation from existing investors AWI, Sequoia Capital Indias Surge, GSV Ventures, AC Ventures, Leo Capital, and January Capital.

This is a maiden investment for Indonesias leading university, BINUS GROUP, which has joined the company as a strategic partner. The funding which brings CoLearns funding total to $34 million will be deployed to strengthen CoLearns go-to-market strategy, enabling the company to further expand its paid user base in Indonesia.

Abhay Saboo, co-founder & CEO of CoLearn, said Since launching CoLearn, weve been very focused on creating a product users love. CoLearn is not only helping students build a strong foundation in STEM subjects but also has an immediate impact, as over 80% of our subscribed students have seen an improvement in their grades. With a consistent NPS (Net Promoter Score) of over 70 for our live classes and 90%+ organic traffic of our AI-powered homework help feature, we are actively working towards changing the mindset around online tutoring with our offering that blends AI and interactivity.

CoLearn, an online K-12 live learning and homework help platform, was launched in August 2020 and has amassed over 4.8 million users with over 85 million questions asked to-date. With Indonesias first cohort-based live classes and high-quality, passionate teachers, CoLearn has transformed students' understanding of subjects such as math, physics, and chemistry that are often considered difficult. In 2021, the number of questions asked grew 5x with its AI-powered problem-solving platform.

CoLearn aims to improve the educational standards in Indonesia, which is the worlds fourth most populous country with 270 million people.

Vicknesh R Pillay, Founding Partner at TNB Aura said, with the teams unique approach in tackling the K-12 education gap, along with unwavering motivation and hustle, CoLearn has the rare combination to become the next iconic startup from Indonesia.

Amy Yeh, senior managing director at KTB Network, added, The resilience CoLearn has shown during the pandemic is a testament to the teams strength and ability to navigate the ever-changing EdTech landscape. The teams laser-sharp focus in delivering the best live class experience is quickly gaining the confidence of the students and parents alike. Tanya, their AI-powered problem-solving platform that helps with homework, addresses a key problem and therefore has become an integral part of the lives of students in Indonesia.

Lawrence Wibisono, managing director at BINUS Group, said, In line with BINUS vision, Fostering and Empowering the Society in Building and Serving the Nation, we are always committed to enforce educational development. Through CoLearn, we hope to continue discovering and empowering future leaders to build an outstanding company and contribute to society.

In 2018 CoLearn started its offline business and then shifted to a hybrid model. With the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic the company transitioned to a fully online platform, enabling them to remove the friction associated with offline tutoring centers.

Today, CoLearn hosts over 4.8 million users, with 90% of new students coming organically. With a 70+ NPS and 70%+ attendance rates, CoLearn's Live Classes have demonstrated incredible efficacy as an online learning solution. Tanya, the AI-powered platform that receives more than 10 million questions every month, matches student queries with more than 500,000 video tutorials that break down key concepts.

This new round of funding will help strengthen the company's brand presence of its cohort-based live class platform.

Prior to raising this round, CoLearn raised $10M in from leading investors Alpha Wave Incubation, EdTech focused GSV Ventures and returning investors Sequoia Capital Indias Surge and AC Ventures. CoLearn was featured among LinkedIns Top Startups of Indonesia, 2021.
Editor's Note: This article was updated March 30, 2022, to reflect the correct address of the site donated to the borough.

The Newville Police Department is preparing for a change of address after ongoing issues with mold in its station reportedly made several officers sick.

The Newville Borough Council approved the temporary relocation of the police department to a vacant building at Green Ridge Village, a Presbyterian senior living center, during their monthly meeting Jan. 25.

Newville Police Chief Todd Koser said the police department will begin moving items over Tuesday, although the new location isnt expected to be fully functional until the end of the month due to the difficulty of moving electronic equipment like cameras and radios.

We have to do something, Koser said. Its kind of an emergency situation.

Mold in police station

Koser said the mold became apparent when he went to the doctor with upper respiratory issues in late September. His doctor told him it could be a sign of dirty air, so he talked to the other officers at the station.

Everybody in the office had like sinus infections or ear infections at the exact same time, Koser said. Everybody, and thats not something thats contagious. Thats kind of a clue when theres five of us and we all have the same problem that this is the common denominator. So then we opened up to looking around to see what was going on here and ran into the mold.

Koser said he went to the borough, explained the situation and said he and his officers needed a new place to go. That place turned out to be office space at the Newville Water & Sewer Authority, where the police department worked from late November to mid-January.

However, Koser said confidential files were still stored in the station and accessed only while wearing protective face masks. Interviews were conducted in Newvilles municipal building, and Koser said he performed administrative work from home, which means that he worked from four different locations over the past few months while the mold could be addressed.

Theres been two major air quality studies done from people that are certified mold experts and those reports are rather lengthy, you know they were all inclusive, Koser said. They inspected the whole property and looked at all the nooks and crannies that sort of thing.

According to Koser, the second test served as a second opinion, but they both came to the same conclusion, even agreeing on the types of mold growing in the station. Koser said these included Aspergillus/Penicillium, Cladosporium, basidiospores and smuts/rust.

In addition to the air quality tests, James Swartz, the owner of the property, said he made changes to the station. He said he installed an air purifier, filters, a UV disinfection system and a pump in the stations basement to remove water, as well as getting the building cleaned and sanitized.

According to Koser, moisture has always been prevalent in the police station. He pointed out a warped whiteboard that hangs on the wall in his office, saying that it was perfectly flat the day he hung it up. He also said the basement has flooded on multiple occasions, a hot water heater from one of the four apartments upstairs dumped on the stations ceiling, and a bathtub had leaked in the past as well.

Koser said he and the other members of the police department were cleared to move back into the building in mid-January, but began to experience the same symptoms as before, and on the third day back in the station, water began dripping from the ceiling.

Swartz said this was the result of an overflow upstairs, but for the police department, it was the last straw.

We were all sick, which makes you irritable anyway, and its a stressful job, and then you add in that you dont feel well when youre here and you know that here is more than likely making you sick, that makes it a tough environment, Koser said.

Koser, along with officers Matthew Keller and Shawn Gutshall, attended the Jan. 25 Newville Borough Council meeting and requested the move, which was approved the same day.

Swartz said hes been more than fair throughout the entire process.

I have done everything they asked me to do, Swartz said. If they want to move, its totally up to them.

Plans for a new station

The move comes as the lease for the police departments current station at 27 W. Big Spring Ave. in Newville is set to expire at the end of the month. Koser said the police have worked from the current location for approximately 10 years.

We cant continue to operate in that building, and theres no sense making a new lease and breaking it in two months, Newville Borough Manager Fred Potzer said. So the way it worked out is all right; we will serve out our lease through the end of February, then we will start in March with the new lease.

Potzer said the cost of staying at Green Ridge Village will be $1,550 per month, compared to the $1,000 monthly payment paid for the building owned by Swartz.

Potzer said the borough plans to construct a new police station, a discussion that started in 2018, although hes not sure what that will look like yet.

So we had worked out a design for a two-story building, Potzer said. A lower level was going to be the police station and the second floor was going to be the borough offices, and we had worked on this last year.

The borough received land from a local couple in December at 103 S. High St. in Newville. However, due to COVID-19, supply chain issues, material costs and the uncertainty of labor, the bids came in much higher than what was budgeted.

If you talk to anyone right now thats doing any kind of construction, theyll tell you now is not the time to do a project, Potzer said.

Potzer said the borough will have to decide to modify the project or seek additional funds.

Theres a couple of options, he said. Do we build a municipal building at the site, do we build a police station at the site, do we retain the ownership of this [municipal] building and stay here, do we retain the ownership of this [municipal] building, maybe modify it, remodel it, make it available as a police headquarters?

Potzer said he hopes to have a better idea of what will happen in terms of the new police station in the next 30 to 60 days.

At the end of the day, what we hope to have is a new facility for the borough and a new facility for the police department; whether theyre both constructed on one site or whether we take this building and remodel, were not sure yet, he said.

Green Ridge Village

Potzer said that for the temporary interim location for the police department, they looked at several locations but many of them required extensive renovations.

Thats where Green Ridge Village came in.

It needs nothing, Potzer said of Gilliland Manor, the vacant building at Green Ridge Village where the police department will work. Its a beautiful building and its safe and functional and we could move into it quickly.

Koser said Green Ridge Village maintenance staff will add a door to close off a wing where the five staff members of the Newville Police Department will settle in.

One concern that came up at the borough council meeting regarding the police departments decision to relocate was that Green Ridge Village, while close, is located outside of the borough of Newville.

You know from the borough boundary line if you have a good pitching arm you can throw a rock and hit the building, its that close, Potzer said.

He said Newville police have already been present on Green Ridges property and can be there despite it being outside of the borough.

Legally we can because we already have permission from West Pennsboro Township; it was granted in 1982 and we can police on the campus of Green Ridge Village, Potzer said.

Koser said its not uncommon for the Newville police department to be outside of the borough, since its contracted to patrol the areas of Green Ridge Village, Saylors Market and Newville Fairgrounds.

No patrol coverage will be cut, Potzer said. The department will continue to function as normal, except from a different location.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/multiple-casualties-reported-as-us-conducts-counterterrorism-raid-in-syria-1092707119.html

Multiple Casualties Reported as US Conducts 'Counterterrorism' Raid in Syria - Video

Multiple Casualties Reported as US Conducts 'Counterterrorism' Raid in Syria - Video

Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said on Thursday that US Special Operations units have successfully completed a counterterrorism mission in northwestern... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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Multiple people, including civilians, have been killed as a result of a US raid in northwestern Syria, The Associated Press reported, citing local residents and activists.Witnesses, who preferred to remain anonymous, told the AP that they saw body parts scattered around a house in the village of Atmeh, a town in Idlib province. They added that the raid involved helicopters, explosions and machine-gun fire.According to AP, locals described the overnight raid in Idlib as the biggest operation since the October 2019 killing of Daesh* leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.The media outlet cited a US official, who discussed the details of the military operation on condition of anonymity, as saying that there was at least one major explosion. The source added that one of the helicopters involved in the raid suffered a mechanical malfunction and had to be blown up on the ground. A video allegedly showing the overnight raid has emerged online:The reports about casualties come shortly after Pentagon spokesman John Kirby confirmed that US Special Operations units had conducted what he described as a "successful" counterterrorism mission in Syria.The Pentagon did not clarify who the target was, or if any terrorists or civilians were killed or injured.Even though Daesh's efforts to establish a "caliphate" in Iraq and Syria have failed, the US has maintained its illegal military presence in the country by asserting that the troops are there to ensure the "enduring defeat" of terrorists.In October 2019, then-US President Donald Trump announced that Washington would be withdrawing its forces from Syria, but eventually backtracked. He stated that a "small" American contingent would stay behind to "keep the oil", also claiming that the revenues from the crude would go to fund the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and their militia.Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has repeatedly condemned the US presence in the country, which he views as illegal as it was not mandated by either Damascus or the United Nations. Damascus has also accused the US of seeking to steal Syrian oil.*Daesh, also known as IS/Islamic State/ISIS, is a terrorist group banned in Russia and many other countries.

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Drew Shamirs aim, as he describes it, is to turn the human experience into an aural experience.

Everybody in the world is living their own human experience, he says. When it comes to my music, if I can give you that nugget, and if you also could dance while learning that nugget, I could die happy.

The hip-hop artist, who is putting together an EP, creates music that he describes as introspective, but with a bit of swagger.

In a recent interview, he spoke about translating his own human experience into a hip-hop language, about finding samples and about why he doesnt want to meet his idols.

How did you get interested in music?

I am from Jacksonville, N.C. Im a military brat. My father was in the military, and Ive lived between North Carolina and southern California pretty much my whole life up until adulthood, when I was able to finally settle down somewhere, which was in Greensboro.

I am just a really huge fan of hip-hop culture. And I feel if you are truly a fan of hip-hop culture, youll try to do something, whether it be DJ, break dance, emcee. So I tried a few things, and what stuck the most was making beats and rapping. I had a love for the culture and wanted to offer something to it. And hanging out with friends, we would have freestyle sessions on cafeteria tables. Thats where I started growing a really deep love and passion for the music.

Who are some of your influences?

J Dilla, Nas. Im a huge A Tribe Called Quest fan. A lot of the stuff from the early to mid-90s. Outside of hip-hop theres Nina Simone, Sun Ra, Fleetwood Mac. Its really myriad things that Ive listened to throughout my life.

How would you describe your music?

This may sound a little corny, but I just like to display my human experience in the language of hip-hop. When you hear my music youre going to hear samples. Youre going to hear drums that youve been hearing all of your life. I take pride in the fact that theres been times when my music was played, and you could have a grandmother and a grandchild listening to the same song.

Its a traditional, eclectic sound. I like to take stuff from the past and bring it into the future, as well as embrace everything going on now. Im not going to automatically write off any type of song that Im making just because it has an 808 drum pattern.

But youre going to get raw drums, samples, live instrumentation. The sound Im trying for the most is what De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest were doing and bringing that to where today is, the same way they were probably doing with James Brown.

Theres the continuation of the experience Im living, which is the Black experience, the underground, the not-too-commercial, trying to find a nice middle-ground experience where I understand various aspects of life, and I try to translate those to the hip-hop language and speak truth to power.

Whats your creative process like?

It starts with going to record stores, listening to different playlists, things of that nature, to try to grab some kind of inspiration, whether it be a literal sample where Im putting a needle to a record and putting it into my programming, or if theres a specific vibration I was able to pick up.

Ive gotten a lot of inspiration from music outside American music, like (French acid-jazz group) Cortex.

But I usually start with a sample, and let the melody of what Im trying to create tell me what to do. And once I have the beat laid out, I just listen to the song, and let the music speak to me as much as possible.

I use an Akai MPK49 (keyboard). I am part of the school of people that live by Akai and die by Akai, just because Ive seen J Dilla do so much with it.

If you could open a show for any artist, who would it be, and why?

Im a huge believer in never meeting your idols. You can sit and listen to someone your whole life and be a huge fan of them, and then you can meet them and theyll be a jerk. Ive had that happen to me a couple of times actually.

I think, if anything, Im a huge fan of cross genre shows. I would love to open up for someone outside of what I do. One person specifically, I would probably die happy if I could open for is Bjork or Beck or Fiona Apple. But my dream festival spot would be opening up for Bjork. It would have to be in Iceland, though, on her home base.

Do you ever sing karaoke, or sing in the shower, and, if so, what do you sing?

A good friend of mine and collaborator is Tony Price. One of my karaoke highlights was when me and him performed Forgot About Dre one night. Its an older Dr. Dre, Eminem record.

Aside from that, I sing in the shower, mess with harmonies and melodies, see if I can pick anything crazy. Also Ill scream Ex-Factor by Lauryn Hill. Thats one of my pre-show traditions. The song is very beautiful.

Whats the funniest or weirdest thing that has ever happened at one of your shows?

At a venue/club in Greensboro that shall remain nameless, we were actually paid in fake currency, and we didnt realize it until we went a little further down the street from said place to a Sheetz, and we tried to buy food. And we had to deal with police because if they find a counterfeit bill on you, they have to call the cops. Or, at least, thats what they told us.

What do you want people to walk away with when they listen to your music?

I want people to walk away with the knowledge of the fact that we are all human beings, living a human experience. Sometimes were serious. Sometimes were funny. Sometimes were happy. Sometimes were sad. Sometimes were heartbroken. Sometimes we feel like were on top of the world.

But at the end of the day, you have to look in the mirror, you have to realize that you are a human being, and once everybody can realize that, then we can start to chip away at all the ills of the world.

On my last solo album, I have a few skits that pretty much illustrate the three deaths that I feel we have. The first death is your ego, the second death is your physical life ending and the final death is the last time someone says your name. The takeaway from that is, Hey, when your name is said for the last time, do you want it to be in good spirits or do you want people to say, That guy was a jerk. So once we all have this knowledge that we are all human beings, were going to screw up, were going to do great, but in the end we are all human and we all have to respect that and understand that.

Do you have a favorite song you like to perform?

As of late, theres a song I have called Staygold/S550. The music, the beat itself, takes a real minimalist approach. It allows me to speak in two different voices. One is more introspective and has a more mature tone.

Then I go into a more braggadocio I dont care about anything situation. It just gives a good view of what youre going to get when it comes to myself. You can get those beat sayings, you can get those life lessons translated into music. But I can still rap my a off.

Whats next for you?

I am wrapping up an extended play that I plan on releasing in the next couple of months, I just have a few things I need to iron out, as far as production.

Im performing at etc. (1333 Grove St. in Greensboro) on Feb. 19. Theres also a J Dilla tribute show at Flat Iron (221 Summit Ave. in Greensboro) on Feb. 11.

I have a song with Dallasito, one of the most talented producers in the city, on his last project.

Mostly, Im just waiting until its time to speak to the people again.
The Jay H. Baker Retailing Center at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and the Retail Leaders Circle have revealed the speaker lineup for the 2022 CEO Summit, to be held March 1 at the Rainbow Room in New York.

The daylong summits theme is Values + Purpose: Leading the Neo-Renaissance.

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Tory Burch will be honored the night before the summit with the Retail Excellence Award in recognition of her leadership and support of women entrepreneurs. Burch, who launched her brand in 2004, has 345 stores around the world, including its new global flagship on Mercer Street in SoHo in New York. In 2009 she launched the Tory Burch Foundation to advance womens empowerment and entrepreneurship by providing access to capital, education and digital resources.

The invitation-only summit is expected to bring together 150 senior retail and brand executives, including members of Baker centers boards and selected industry partners. The programming will focus on how organizations across fashion, wellness, lifestyle, food and beverage are driving profitability by aligning their business model with new consumer priorities and working to create an ethical value chain. Consumers appear to be more interested in shopping from retailers and brands that share their values across such issues as diversity, equity and inclusion, health and wellness, sustainability, vaccination efforts, mental health, philanthropy and body positivity.

Confirmed speakers include Neil Blumenthal, co-founder and co-chief executive officer of Warby Parker; Danny Meyer, founder and CEO of Union Square Hospitality Group; Jeff Raider, co-founder and co-CEO of Harrys; Debra G. Perelman, president and CEO of Revlon Inc.; James Reinhart, co-founder and CEO of ThredUp; Lori Coulter, co-founder and CEO of Summersalt; Cami Tellez, founder and CEO of Parade; Trina Spear, co-CEO and co-founder of Figs; Rob Smith, CEO and founder of The Phluid Project; Sally Susman, executive vice president, chief corporate affairs officer of Pfizer Inc.; Walter Robb, principal at Stonewall Robb Advisors and former co-CEO of Whole Foods Market, and Kendra Bracken-Ferguson, founder of BrainTrust Founders Studio.

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During the past two years, the retail industry has undergone unprecedented transitions as e-commerce has boomed, the role of the store has been redefined, and consumers have adapted their behavior to the pandemic world, said Thomas S. Robertson, Joshua J. Harris professor and professor of marketing at Wharton. Consumers are increasingly focused on companies values, purpose and mission and shoppers are more conscious than ever of the effects of their consumption on the world. These changes have challenged brands and retailers to fundamentally rethink their strategic positioning as they closely align their mission and values with their business models.

Panos Linardos, executive director, Retail Leaders Circle, added: Following the unprecedented changes and uncertainty this pandemic has brought, there has never been a more critical moment for retail leaders to connect. Our focus this year is to navigate this new landscape and explore how leading brands and retailers can trigger bold new strategies to build a resilient, sustainable and thriving industry future.

The Jay H. Baker Retailing Center was established at Wharton in 2002 through a gift by Jay and Patty Baker. Jay Baker, former president and director of the Kohls Corp., is a Wharton graduate. Retail Leaders Circle is an international platform, powered by the New York Institute of Management, for expert-led debate between CEOs, industry innovators and influencers on the future of retail.

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Erie County Executive Brenton Davis hoped to give a number of his top political appointees a hefty pay raise.

His initial requests were denied Tuesday.

In a unanimous vote, Erie County Council rejected Davis' request to have the new director of Veterans Affairs receive an annual salary of $78,351.

The request was 65% higher than the position's base salary of $47,405, and roughly 16% higher than the position's allotment  $67,586  in the 2022 budget.

Erie County Council voted on Feb. 2, 2022, to reject salary requests made by Erie County Executive Brenton Davis for three of his appointees.

The council, composed of four Democrats and three Republicans, also rejected Davis' salary requests for the public defender and director of administration, and unanimously agreed on new salaries for both positions.

Davis, a Republican, requested $104,793 for the public defender; council approved $101,732. Davis requested $98,534 for the director of administration; council approved $92,879.

Council rejects VA director salary

In January, Davis requested that his new director of Veterans Affairs, Joe Benacci, a 21-year U.S. Army Reserve veteran and Davis campaign donor, be granted an annual salary of $78,351.

Davis requests higher salaries: Davis wants raises for top-level officials; Dem councilmembers call requests 'out of line'

Davis taps Benacci: Davis names public defender, VA director as new county administration takes shape

Davis, who also serves in the U.S. Army Reserve, said he wanted an expanded role for the director, from a merely clerical position to a more proactive outreach coordinator, going to job fairs, treatment and veterans courts and other events.

On Tuesday, 3rd District Councilwoman Mary Rennie pushed back on the request, insisting that Davis was choosing a salary without following the process outlined in the county personnel code  as specified in the Home Rule Charter  and its established pay plan.

"The position of the director of Veterans Affairs has a classification within that pay plan," Rennie said in an interview with the Erie Times-News on Wednesday. "There is room for deviation within that  but not the deviation that (Davis) requested. He was looking to completely reclassify the position into a much higher pay range."

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Rennie, a Democrat, said the $78,351 figure was "extraordinarily high" even for similar offices in Pennsylvania, and that Davis shouldn't "invent positions and responsibilities" and decide where it falls within the pay plan.

"Once we go outside the personnel code," she said, "then it's like a row of dominoes." "There are unforeseen consequences to that."

Rennie recommended that the Davis administration go through Human Resources, work with its consulting firm, J.L. Nick & Associates, and come back to council with a new recommendation.

Council agreed and unanimously rejected Davis' request.

Other salaries

Davis requested his new public defender, Nicole Sloane, who had worked at the Public Defender's Office since 2006 and who also donated to Davis' campaign, receive an annual salary of $104,793.

Since the public defender position was removed from the county pay plan last year, the council had the option of setting any salary.

Removed from pay plan: Erie County Council approves 3% pay raise for non-union county employees, top appointments

Rennie offered an amendment to set the salary at $101,732. She referred to the figure as a "compromise" amount, as it was a roughly 3% decrease from what former Public Defender Pat Kennedy made last year.

Council had also allotted $107,936 for the position in the 2022 budget because it expected Kennedy to continue as public defender. Kennedy had held the post for 11 years, and had been Sloane's supervisor.

Council members unanimously approved the amended salary.

Davis requested that his director of administration, Doug Smith, who served as county clerk for 19 years, receive a salary of $98,534, a 23% increase from the amount allotted  $80,096  in the 2022 budget.

Doug Smith appointed: Davis appoints County Clerk Doug Smith to administrator; attorney William Speros tapped as solicitor

Rennie offered an amendment that set the position's salary at $92,879, which is a 6% increase from what Smith earned last year as county clerk.

Rennie said the pay plan dictates that someone who has an internal promotion to a permanent spot should get a 6% raise.

Council members unanimously approved the amended salary.

Council Chairman Brian Shank lauded his colleagues for working across the aisle and reaching a "happy medium" on the salaries.

"We're here for the people, we're here for our constituents," said Shank, a Republican. "We understand what the county executive is trying to do. However, we have to be able to afford it. And Ms. Rennie came up with some great compromises. The key to all this is compromise."

Smith told the Erie Times-News on Wednesday that the Davis administration did not have a comment on the votes.

A.J. Rao can be reached at arao@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNRao.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Pay hikes: Erie County Council rejects pay raises for top Davis appointments
Paradigm, an institutional, over-the-counter investment firm, is now offering a feature that allows users to trade futures spreads as a single structure using a central limit order book.

The new "futures spread orderbooks" are now live on the crypto exchanges Deribit and Bybit, according to a tweet from Singapore-based Paradigm. Videos posted on the company's website show how the trades are executed.

A futures spread trade is an arbitrage technique where a trader takes two positions on a commodity to capitalize on a discrepancy in price. So a trader buys one futures contract and sells another with a different expiry date. Instead of trading the price of the underlying asset  in this case, bitcoin or another cryptocurrency  based on the investor's view of the future direction of the market, traders bet on the price difference between the two contracts.

Futures spread trading is considered less risky when compared with futures contracts, according to the CME, a U.S. commodities exchange.

However, there are still some risks associated with futures spread trading, especially when using high leverage, according to Cryptarbitrage, a Twitter user who says he creates content for Deribit Insights and has experience trading derivatives in crypto and traditional markets.

Cryptoarbitrage spoke to CoinDesk via a Telegram chat after being contacted via a Twitter direct message. He declined to disclose his identity.

This new order book makes it easier and gives traders the ability to leave limit orders," Cryptarbitrage told CoinDesk. "They are no longer restricted to either accepting or not accepting a dealer's quotes. They can now set their own price.

This should be useful for traders who want to trade the spreads themselves, but also very handy for traders rolling their positions from one contract to the next, he added.
The military remains committed to leasing land in Mangilao to the government of Guam for a medical complex, according to Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero.

She said she recently met with military officials to discuss the status of the Eagles Field site along Route 15.

Leon Guerrero, who talked about the issue Thursday during an interview on K-57 radio, said the 102-acre Mangilao property remains carved out for the medical complex despite an ongoing assessment by the military, which is looking at military-held land to improve missile defense for the island.

The governor, who spoke with Missile Defense Agency officials while in Washington, D.C., said military engineers will examine whether a missile defense system, such as a radar station, can share the land with the medical complex without impacting the medical facility or Guams airport.

The militarys fiscal 2022 budget includes $765 million for Guam projects and prioritizes a 360-degree integrated air and missile defense system to defend the island from advanced cruise, ballistic and hypersonic missile threats.

Guam residents will have an opportunity to comment on the missile defense system as part of the environmental approval process, according to Joint Region Marianas.

Health center

A Guam law signed in October allows the governor to sign a contract to finance, design and build a new government health care center, which will include a new Guam Memorial Hospital and facilities for the Department of Public Health and Social Services and the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center.

The law authorizes up to $35 million per year in lease payments, for up to 40 years, on a lease-to-own basis. The governor said the facility will be built at the Mangilao site, on leased military land.

The Department of Land Management and the Navy in December signed a two-year license that allows the government of Guam to access the 102-acre site to build a medical complex. GovGuam is allowed to excavate, with permission and advance notice, but must keep the site secure. The license expires in November 2023 but can be replaced by a lease.

We are still going to be moving forward with the lease negotiations for Eagles Field  the 102 acres, Leon Guerrero said.

No return

The governor said the military doesnt consider the Eagles Field site to be excess land because of its potential use for missile defense, which means it wont be returned to the government of Guam. She said the military would take back the land if its not used for a medical complex.

If the land ever is declared excess and returned to GovGuam, Guam law states it must be returned to its ancestral owners or their descendants through the Guam Ancestral Lands Commission.

The Navy in July 1950 condemned and took ownership of 741 acres of land in Mangilao and Barrigada, including the Eagles Field area.

Some of that land was transferred to the Air Force in May 1960. The Air Force built several communications towers and a radar facility on the site. The towers and buildings later were dismantled and the land currently is vacant, except for the nine-acre Eagles Field.

Environmental impact

The Defense Department, as part of the ongoing military buildup, issued a final environmental impact statement in 2010 that identifies Andersen Air Force Base, including Northwest Field, as the site for missile defense operations in Guam.

The Army has operated a Terminal High Altitude Air Defense missile defense system at Andersen since 2013 and last year temporarily deployed the Iron Dome Missile Defense System at Andersen for testing.

The National Environmental Policy Act requires federal agencies, including the military, to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before deciding whether to take those actions.

In the process of establishing a comprehensive missile defense system in Guam, the (Defense Department) will comply with all (National Environmental Policy Act) requirements, said Lt. Cmdr. Katie Koenig, public affairs officer for Joint Region Marianas. While we do not anticipate a significant environmental impact at the sites that are currently being reviewed, the environmental assessment and public involvement process will validate all the potential impacts.
The semi-mythical Punxsutawney Phil is probably the best-known groundhog on Earth due to his annual weather forecast prognosticating when springtime weather will arrive. Hes been given his predictions since at least 1886 when it was first reported in the local newspaper.

Just days before he was due to give his own forecast, Phils New Jersey cousin and local celebrity Milltown Mel crossed over the rainbow bridge. His sudden demise so close to Groundhog Day made it impossible for the Milltown Wranglers to find a replacement. However, Mel is not the first weather oracle to pass away just days before he was set to say whether spring is around the corner or we can expect six more weeks of winter.

Also see:

Untimely Groundhog Day deaths

Milton Mel has been giving his predictions since 2009 when the town began its own Groundhog Day tradition. The Mel who passed away on Sunday was actually Mel 2.0, having replaced the OG Mel in 2015. Although he succumbed before he could deliver his seventh forecast considering the average lifespan of a Groundhog is about 3 years, that is not such a shock, his handlers posted.

He wasnt the first New Jersey groundhog oracle whose death so close to Groundhog Day forced the cancellation of the celebrations. In Sussex their Stonewall Jackson IV was found dead just a day before he was due to be awoken for his insight into what the weather had in store. His demise also forced the cancellation of the ceremony at the Space Farms Zoo and Museum where he resided. He lived to the ripe old age of six or seven years.

In the case of the Milwaukee Zoo they found a stand-in for the 2018 prediction when Wynter, their resident groundhog died. Although they had almost a year as Wynter died in March 2017, it was up to Snow Lily the zoos polar bear to make the forecast.

Milltown Mel, N.J.s weather-predicting groundhog, has passed away before his big day.  Thanks for the memories, Mel!  https://t.co/olIYgxY37D pic.twitter.com/Y555olz7Qs  njdotcom (@njdotcom) February 1, 2022

The official groundhog isnt always what it seems

One groundhog fatality that occurred after the fact but stirred a bit of controversy was the death of Staten Island Chuck in 2014. That year Mayor DeBlasio lost control of what everyone thought was Chuck but turned out to be Charlotte. She fell nearly six feet and sustained a bodily injury which she died of according to the NY Post. The paper said the mayor had blood on his hands but zoo spokesman said It appears unlikely that the animals death is related to the events on Groundhog Day.

Perhaps the best way to not worry about an unexpected death while hibernating is to follow Washington DCs lead. The National Groundhog Potomac Phil is the taxidermied brother of Pennsylvania's Punxsutawney Phil according to his handlers. Unlike his brother though, he also makes political predictions.
BRUSSELS  The European Parliament organised a two-day conference and a series of activities to address the status of women and children in Afghanistan after the Taliban took power in August.

According to sources, a number of notable Afghan women, EU MPs, and officials from international organisations attended the meeting, which began on Monday and finished on Wednesday. The attendees in Tuesday's summit urged the international community to support Afghanistan's women and girls.

"The European Union has characterised respect for human rights, in particular women's rights, the rule of law, and media freedom as important prerequisites for engagement with the current Afghan government," said EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola at the conference. Angelina Jolie, an actress and UNHCR special envoy, said Afghan women have endured a lot over the years, but they have never given up hope for their nation. She urged the Islamic Emirate to reopen girls' schools.

"I demand that Afghanistan's de facto rulers reopen all schools. To allow the females to retake the tests they missed the previous year. To free Tamana Paryani and Parwana Ibrahimkhil, as well as the other women detained. Also, to let women to fully and openly engage in labour, politics, and society." Afghanistan is a collective failure of the international community, the Afghan government, and the Afghan people, according to Sima Samar, the former head of Afghanistan's Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC).

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Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 02/02/2022 (233 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

OTTAWA  Candice Bergen was named interim leader of the Conservative Party of Canada Wednesday night.

She replaces Erin OToole, who lost a vote to remain as leader of the Official Opposition after a majority of his fellow Conservative MPs cast a ballot in favour of pushing him out of the top job earlier that day.

Bergen, the Manitoba MP for Portage-Lisgar, will lead the party until a new permanent leader is selected at a later date.

The Canadian Press Manitoba MP for Portage-Lisgar, Candice Bergen, was named interim leader of the Conservative Party of Canada Wednesday.

The partys 119 members of Parliament met via video conference early Wednesday to cast secret ballots after about one-third of them signed a notice that triggered a leadership review.

Ontario MP and national caucus chair Scott Reid said in a statement that 73 Conservative MPs voted to replace him while 45 endorsed him. As caucus chair, Reid said he did not vote.

Three caucus sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal matters said OToole told his colleagues that if members voted for him to stay, he would undergo an early leadership review by the membership ahead of the previously set timeline in 2023. His critics have spent months calling on OToole and the partys national council to do that.

After the vote, Conservative MPs thanked OToole for his service, including Westman Conservative MPs Larry Maguire (Brandon-Souris) and Dan Mazier (Dauphin-Swan River-Neepawa).

I thank Erin OToole for his service to our nation. Dedication to serving a nation through public service is not always easy, but Erin never held back his admiration for the future of our nation. I look forward to selecting a leader in the coming months who can provide a clear, principled alternative to Justin Trudeau in the next election, Mazier told the Sun via email.

He also said he fully respects the outcome of the vote and still believes in the Conservative party.

I want to personally thank Mr. OToole for his friendship and leadership. I also want to applaud his commitment to our party, our Conservative Caucus and to Canada. Whether serving in the Canadian Armed Forces or as member of Parliament; he gave his all to our country, Maguire wrote in a statement.

Maguire, who said Tuesday he believed OToole was still the right person to be leader, also called for the party to unite now that the vote is over. He said now is the time for Conservatives and Canadians who are upset with the countrys direction to get involved by sharing ideas and making their voices heard.

OTooles ouster was indicative of longstanding divisions between the different ideological wings of the big tent party as well as rumblings of discontent since last years election, said Brandon University political science professor Kelly Saunders. Though the speed at which it happened surprised her.

I thought it would be a little bit of a closer vote, Saunders said. Over 60 per cent voted to dump OToole, and I thought there would have been more people in the party or at least within the caucus who wouldve said we might not like him and we might not agree with everything he does, but now is really not the time to be dumping our leader.

Moving forward, Saunders said she believes the Tories need to work harder to appeal to more progressive, urban voters as she believes theres limited room to expand their base beyond Western Canada under the partys current direction. A fracturing of the party into multiple entities, like what happened in the years after Brian Mulroney was prime minister, could happen again.

Conservative MPs also said they are ready to move on.

The caucus has spoken, Regina MP Michael Kram said on Twitter.

A leader cannot lead if he does not have the confidence of his caucus colleagues.

Quebec MP Pierre Paul-Hus said after the meeting: I think we are more united than ever.

The party will now head into a leadership race for the third time since former prime minister Stephen Harper lost power to the Liberals in 2015.

The Reform Act, which has been in place since 2015, allows a partys MPs to trigger a leadership review instead of waiting for the question to be put to the wider membership.

The Conservative caucus is the only one that voted last year to accept the rule as binding.

On Monday night, after news of the coming leadership review came out, OToole put out a social media post that painted his dissenters as believing the party should hold more extreme views resembling those of Ontario MPP Randy Hillier and ex-MP Derek Sloan.

OToole and his team then started calling different MPs seeking their support.

Before the vote, Saskatchewan MP Jeremy Patzer also shared a statement with caucus from 21 former Conservative MPs, including former agriculture minister Gerry Ritz, that called for a new leader.

Erin OToole has not only failed to unite the party, his words and actions in recent days have created greater disunity, reads the statement obtained by The Canadian Press.

It is time for him to step aside for the good of the Conservative Party and the nation.

The Canadian Press Erin O'Toole was voted out as leader of the Conservative Party of Canada early Wednesday.

Former Edmonton MP Kerry Diotte, who lost his in seat the recent election, published his own social media post late Tuesday saying that as a former military man, OToole should know when he has lost the battle.

The writing is on the wall, he said in a post on Facebook.

Garnett Genuis was among the Conservative MPs who were hoping to oust OToole. He expressed confidence Tuesday about the likelihood that they had the numbers.

OToole, a 49-year-old Ontario MP, took over the reins of the party in August 2020.

The corporate lawyer and Air Force veteran was first elected in a byelection in 2012 in the riding of Durham, a region his father also represented when he was in provincial politics. OToole said he will stay on as MP despite his removal as party leader.

OToole served as a cabinet minister for veterans affairs in former prime minister Stephen Harpers Conservative government before it fell to the Liberals in the 2015 election.

He then put his name forward to be interim leader but lost. He tried again, this time for the party leadership in 2017, but placed third behind Andrew Scheer.

One of the major knocks critics had against OToole began after the 2020 race, where he ran as the true blue candidate over former cabinet minister Peter MacKay. The former Nova Scotia MP had served as leader of the Progressive Conservative party before it merged with the Canadian Alliance to form the modern Conservative Party of Canada.

Once in power, OToole told party members changes were needed if it hoped to make gains in vote-rich regions like the Greater Toronto Area.

In an attempt to modernize the party and differentiate himself from Scheer  whose social conservative views dogged him in the 2019 campaign  OToole promoted his support of access to abortion and LGBTQ rights.

He also embraced carbon pricing, despite the fact that some of his MPs, including many in Western Canada, fought for years against the Liberal governments carbon-pricing mechanism, which the Conservatives called a carbon tax.

During the leadership contest, OToole pledged that it would be scrapped.

During last years election campaign, OToole tried to attract more voters by putting a more moderate stamp on the party.

He also raised the ire of firearms activists and social conservatives by reversing course on promises midway through the race that were inked into his platform when he was being attacked by the Liberals.

Critics like Sen. Denise Batters, who last November began petitioning the party to hold an early leadership review, said his flip-flops damaged his image with Canadians and made him untrustworthy.

Others also point out that OToole finished with two fewer seats than Scheer did in 2019, and failed to make gains the party needed in major cities and suburbs.

Since his election defeat, OToole has struggled to bring his caucus together on issues like vaccine mandates, with many of his MPs feeling the party needed to take a tougher stand against such policies.

He has also faced pressure to more forcefully oppose a controversial secularism law in Quebec and faced pushback from members of the partys social conservative wing for fast-tracking a government bill to ban conversion therapy for LGBTQ Canadians.

 The Canadian Press, with files from Colin Slark
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Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will fly to China on Thursday to attend the Winter Olympic Games opening ceremony and meet with Chinas senior officials, including President Xi Jinping. The Winter Olympics are being held in Beijing despite a diplomatic boycott by the United States and its allies over human rights charges against Uygur Muslims in Xinjiang region.

According to the Foreign Office, Khan will be joined by a high-level group that includes members of the Cabinet and top government officials, who have been invited by the Chinese leadership. The visit, according to Pakistani officials, was largely intended to convey a message to Chinas opponents that Pakistan stood with its all-weather and time-tested friend. However, even though the fact that the visit is not formally bilateral, Islamabad is using it as a chance to address sever critical bilateral matters, notably the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Meanwhile, despite the COVID-19 epidemic, Pakistan praised China for making painstaking preparations to host the Winter Olympic Games. Prime Minister Khan granted China a clean chit on human rights complaints against Uygur Muslims in the dangerous Xinjiang province, saying his countrys ambassador reported that the charges were false during a visit to the province.

During a previous interview with Chinese journalists in July 2021, Khan deflected criticism of Pakistans silence on allegations of rights abuses by China against Uygur Muslims. Khan, according to Pakistan daily Dawn, said that Pakistan had accepted Beijings version regarding the treatment of Uyghurs due to our extreme proximity and relationship.
Swami Prasad Maurya, who quit the BJP to join Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh, will file his nomination as a candidate from Fazilnagar today. That's it for today, follow DH for live updates tomorrow.
Cultura Creative RF / Alamy Stock Photo

En espanol

Three in ten service members identify as a racial or ethnic minority, a figure that is expected to grow in the coming years. A new report from Blue Star Families, The Diverse Experiences of Military & Veteran Families of Color, suggests that addressing existing disparities faced by military families of color will improve national security and ensure long-term military readiness as those ranks grow.

Safety concerns

By 2027, most recruitable adults will be people of color. Yet, active-duty family respondents of color make decisions about military life based on perceptions of racism and fear for their familys safety in communities: 46 percent of active-duty respondents of color reported that they have considered discrimination in their installation ranking decisions, and 42 percent consider concerns about their safety due to their racial identity. One in three active-duty family respondents of color said they experienced at least one incident of being threatened or harassed in their civilian (33 percent) or military (29 percent) community since January 2020.

Jobs and finances 

Military service provides some financial advantages to active-duty and veteran families of color. For instance, 51 percent of active-duty family respondents of color report that their familys financial stability is better than that of friends and family of the same race or ethnic background who are not serving in the military. And 41 percent of veterans of color said they are better able to find jobs compared to their non-white, non-military peers. However, they lag behind their white counterparts when it comes to unemployment rates and earnings. 
Roland Emmerich criticises Marvel, Star Wars films for ruining our industry (Getty Images)

Roland Emmerich has criticised DC, Marvel and Star Wars for ruining the film industry in a new interview.

The Independence Day director made the comments while promoting his upcoming science fiction disaster movie Moonfall, scheduled for release later this month, on Den of Geek.

The filmmaker, in the interview that was published on Wednesday (2 February), discussed the hardships of making a compelling, high-concept disaster film in the age of superhero franchises that dominate movie theatres.

When asked whether the doomsday film genre has changed in recent years, Emmerich, 66, said: Oh, yes. Because naturally Marvel and DC Comics, and Star Wars, have pretty much taken over.

Its ruining our industry a little bit, because nobody does anything original anymore, the director noted.

Emmerich, however, exempted Christopher Nolan from his remarks and praised him for being a master at making bold, new movies.

The German filmmaker is not the only prominent Hollywood personality to denounce superhero films in recent years.

Three years ago, Martin Scorsese said superhero movies were not cinema and compared them to theme parks, as did actor Jodie Foster in a separate interview in 2016.

Foster, who is also an acclaimed director, said the genre was ruining the viewing habits of the American population and then ultimately the rest of the world.

House of Gucci director Ridley Scott called the superhero model boring as s*** during a 2021 interview with Deadline.

Meanwhile, The Power of the Dog filmmaker Jane Campion said she would never make a superhero movie, knocking them for being noisy and ridiculous.

Emmerich himself had previously said he watched superhero movies on flights so he could fall asleep.

Moonfall, Emmerichs latest doomsday spectacle, teases a mysterious force that knocks the moon from its orbit around Earth, sending it on a collision course with the planet, even as two astronauts and a conspiracy theorist try to work together to avert the disaster.

The films cast includes Halle Berry, Patrick Wilson and Game of Thrones alum John Bradley.

It is scheduled for release on 4 February in theatres across the world.
In wartime Marseille, refugees Georg (Franz Rogowski) and Marie (Paula Beer) find their very identities shifting beneath them in "Transit." Christian Petzold adapts the Anna Seghers novel, written in 1942. (Music Box Films)

There arent any old times, Joseph Cotten says with a grind of boundless optimism in The Magnificent Ambersons, a movie made during wartime, 1942. When times are gone, they're not old, they're dead. There aren't any times but new times.

A more threatening embodiment of that idea, of new times that seem like old times, comes to subtly provocative life in Transit, one of the most intriguing films of the new year. Written and directed by German filmmaker Christian Petzold, its an audacious reminder that theres more than one way to adapt a so-called period novel for a new era.

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Petzolds previous film, the smooth Vertigo riff Phoenix, married pulp fiction to a story of living casualties of the Holocaust. Now the filmmaker has taken on a story, set in the French port city of Marseille, affording him the opportunity to create a shape-shifting narrative, calmly explicated but full of uneasy, even damning implications of refugee crises for a new era.

The film comes from the semi-autobiographical novel by Anna Seghers (born Netty Reiling, 1900-1983), exiled in France while her husband was in a prison camp. Seghers completed Transit in 1942; it was published two years later.

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Petzold retains some aspects and reconstitutes others. The film wastes no time tossing you straight into its premise. German refugee Georg, played by the riveting Franz Rogowski, is in a Marseille bistro. Its the present day, judging by the cars and the visual details. The occupying forces have taken Paris, and Marseille, among other cities, is next to fall.

A friend meets him at the bistro: Desperate to flee, he pleads with Georg to deliver two letters (one from a publisher in Mexico, another from his devoted wife) to a nearby hotel room occupied by a famous Communist writer, Weidel. Georg complies, for a fee. But hes too late. Weidel has killed himself in the hotel room, leaving behind a lot of blood in the tub, as well as precious letters of transit ensuring Weidels passage across the Atlantic as well as a Mexican visa. Through a misunderstanding and then a willful deception, as in the Michelangelo Antonioni film The Passenger, Georg assumes Weidels identity.

As Georg learns, Marseille is like the Casablanca of Casablanca, marching to a different beat. Everyones scrambling to get out, but its slow-motion scrambling and stasis, full of long waits in line at the consulate office. The late Weidels widow, Marie (Paula Beer), does not know shes a widow, and searches in vain for her husband. Inadvertently she seems to be shadowing Georg, from consulate office to cafe. Soon (this is the corny part) Georg is in love.

Meantime he strikes up a friendship with a Northern African boy, Driss (Lilien Batman) in the Maghreb quarter of Marseille. In a knotty coincidence, the late Weidels widow has become the lover of another one of Georgs acquaintances, a doctor (Sebastian Hulk) hustling to arrange his own transit visa. Who is Marie, really? How long will Georg maintain the ruse of his identity?

The present-day setting of Transit is realistic up to a point: There are no cellphones, and the clothes people wear dont seem to belong to any particular period. Were never encouraged to settle into the movies version of the present tense. Petzolds technique is clean, devoid of surface flash; cinematographer Hans Fromm favors the sunny, seaside milieu, so that Georg becomes less of a film noir archetype and more of an Everyman, squinting into the sun, puzzling over his new identity. Transit is barely an hour and a half in length but it takes its time.

The castings marvelous, from Rogowskis plaintive, somewhat dazed Georg (he looks like Joaquin Phoenixs overseas cousin) to Iranian actress Maryam Zaree, as the mother of the boy befriended by Georg. What emerges in Transit is a fresco of displacement, of people on the run but stuck in place. A mordant sense of humor informs many of the scenes, as when Georg asks for a room and is told by the landlady that he must produce papers proving his travel plans. So I can only stay here if I can prove that I dont want to stay? he asks. Then, in voiceover, a narrator more or less plopped into the story tells us: He knew the woman would betray him, tomorrow, if not today.

There are times when Petzold mightve tightened the screws a little. The director credits Robert Altmans early 1970s take on The Long Goodbye as a key influence. This movies universe is a little more complicated. Altman made private eye Philip Marlowe a proto-hipster relic of one era, utterly at odds with another. In Transit, the refugees are neither here nor there; theyre then and now. And escape comes only for the lucky few.

Michael Phillips is a Tribune critic.

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mjphillips@chicagotribune.com

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Transit  3.5 stars

No MPAA rating

Running time: 1:41

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Opens: Friday at Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave.; musicboxtheater.org. In German and French with English subtitles.

[ MORE COVERAGE: Now streaming: 'Cold War,' a melancholy beauty about lovers and refugees in the post-WWII era ]

[ Michael Phillips on Christian Petzold's 'Phoenix' and that fantastic Kurt Weill/Ogden Nash standard setting its course ]
The party has also asked all the states to organise a programme to explain the merits of the budget to the people. (PTI)

New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) its office bearers, MPs and other leaders will reach out to the masses across the country to explain the merits of the Union Budget to the people.

BJP MPs will explain the merits of the budget of self-reliant India to the people of their respective areas on February 5, 6, 12 and 13, sources said.

The party has also asked all the states to organise a programme to explain the merits of the budget to the people, sources added.

Earlier on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi explained the details of the budget to the BJP leaders of the country through the virtual medium, in which all the party officials participated.

MPs have been asked to hold a press conference in their parliamentary constituency on February 5, 6, 12 and 13 and the party officials in all the districts will promote the key points of the budget.

The party will also hold meetings through video conferencing on major schemes of the Budget for 15 days.

The budget will be uploaded on the party's website in local languages and will be published on social media platforms.

PM Modi had said that it is very important that India becomes self-reliant and this budget is only for building a modern India on the foundation of self-reliant India.

In the budget, tax benefits have been extended for startups and have been said to give houses to the poor, especially women.

The provision of thousands of crores of rupees, especially for linking Ken-Betwa, is also going to change the picture of the Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

Big steps have been taken in this budget to make the country's agriculture technology-based and chemical-free. It is going to expand the modern connectivity and modern infrastructure in the Himalayan regions.
Stuck in India, Musk's Starlink gets license to operate in Brazil

by IANS |

Stuck over necessary permission required to offer its services in India, Elon Musk's Starlink, the satellite internet division of SpaceX, has been granted the right to operate in Brazil.



Brazil's National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) allowed Musk to enter the country, saying that the consumers will be able to get access to the satellite-based broadband through companies buying capacity from the satellite network, or if existing sector players obtain an authorisation to operate.



"It is in the company's interest to provide internet access to customers throughout the Brazilian territory, which will certainly be very opportune for schools, hospitals and other establishments located in rural and remote areas", said Emmanoel Campelo, Anatel's interim President.



In India, the government had told Starlink to stop "booking/rendering the satellite internet service" in the country without a licence.



Sanjay Bhargava, India Director for Starlink, stepped down earlier last month amid the government pressure.



The Elon Musk-owned company also informed some individuals in the country that it will refund their pre-orders.



According to Musk, there are now 1,469 Starlink satellites active, with 272 "moving to operational orbits currently".



A recent report said that the satellite internet division of SpaceX now has more than 1,45,000 users across 25 countries globally.



Until November 2021, SpaceX had added roughly 11,000 users per month since beginning service in October 2020.



Musk at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) conference last year said Starlink should have roughly 500,000 users within the next 12 months.



He said Starlink is already running in 12 countries and expanding.
Korea on Monday protested again Japan's plan to list another site where masses of Koreans were mobilized as slave labor during World War II as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

On Tuesday, the Japan Agency for Cultural Affairs announced its plan to register a mine on the island of Sado in Niigata Prefecture on the UNESCO World Heritage list. About 1,000 Koreans were forced into hard labor in the mine during World War II, when Korea was under Japanese colonial rule.

This is only the latest attempt by Japan to glorify its industrial heritage by glossing over its reliance on Korean slave labor in wartime and the suffering of the forced laborers. In previous listings it has blatantly ignored UNESCO stipulations to prominently document the troubling history of industrial sites.

Japan will decide by Feb. 1 whether to formally recommend the Sado mine to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, which will make a decision in 2023 based on results of a review by the International Council on Monuments and Sites, a non-governmental international organization advising on the matter.

The Sado mine was the biggest gold and silver mine during the Edo period in the 17th century, but it was used to produce war materiel like copper during the Pacific War.
New Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla schooled Congress Member of Parliament (MP) Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday for not following proper Parliamentary procedure during a debate on the motion of thanks to the President's address in the Lok Sabha.

After Rahul Gandhi gave "permission" to another MP to speak while he was speaking, the Speaker said, "Who are you to give this permission? You can't give permission, that's my right," Om Birla further added, "You have no right to allow anyone, only the chair has the right to allow."

Om Birla chided Gandhi after the Congress leader while delivering his remarks paused and indicated to BJP MP Kamlesh Paswan who was on his feet and wanted to say something. "I am a democratic person and I will allow the other person to speak," Gandhi said earning a sharp rebuke from a visibly irritated Speaker Birla.

The Congress leader during the motion of thanks on the President's address, was seen taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi by saying, "'India cannot be ruled as a kingdom...The King does not listen to anybody."

The Wayanad MP also took the name of Kamlesh Paswan and who had spoken just before him and pointed out that BJP MP, who is a Dalit was in the wrong party.

"You do not listen to anybody and even not to my dear brother and sister in the BJP. I saw my Dalit colleague speak today, Paswanji. He knows the history of Dalit. He knows who has oppressed the Dalits for 3,000 years. But he is speaking with hesitancy. He is speaking without... I am proud of him. I am proud of this gentleman. He has spoken to me what is in his heart. But he is in the wrong party. Don't worry...ghabraiye mat," Gandhi said.

To this there was an uproar and Paswan stood up to speak in protest and motioned to the Speaker to allow him to speak only to be told by the Speaker in hindi 'No.. not in between, afterwards." This was when Gandhi promptly gestured to Paswan and made the declaration that he gave permission to the BJP leader to speak.

"Aap kisi ko ijazaat nahi de sakte, yeh adhikar mera hain" (You cannot give permission to anyone, this is my right), the Speaker lashed out at Gandhi leaving the Congress leader visibly embarrased.

In addition, Paswan also hit back at the Congress leader. "Rahul Gandhi said I am in the wrong party. I want to tell him that today I am being able to speak after Rahul Gandhi being the MP of Bansgaon only because of my party. My party made me MP three times. What more do I want?"

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi was panned for his remarks in the debate. Many politicians both from BJP and Congress took to social media to speak on it.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma tweeted, "Mr Rahul Gandhi, those who prefer to feed biscuits to dogs in the presence of leaders from Assam and then offer them the same biscuits should be the last people to talk about political decency. High command mindset is INC's be all and end all. The people of India know it well."
Kolkata: Re-elected as Trinamul Congress chairperson unopposed, Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday urged all regional parties to work unitedly with her to remove the BJP from power at the Centre in the next Lok Sabha elections.

The West Bengal chief minister asked them to cement their base in their home states in the next two years and vowed to stitch them together, as she set forth her national ambitions. She also announced that the TMCs first working committee meeting will be held in New Delhi.

Ms Banerjee also accused the Congress of actually working to aid the BJP in several states and of living with ego after her failed attempt to ally with the grand old party for the Goa Assembly polls. The TMC supremo also reiterated that the TMC would support the Samajwadi Party in the forthcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls.

Addressing the TMC gathering at Netaji Indoor Stadium, Ms Banerjee said: We are ready to fight. We are prepared to oust the BJP. In the coming days, we want all regional parties to come forward and work unitedly to defeat the BJP politically in 2024. This is our pledge. Those who get scared, die. Those who fight, survive. We will fight but we will never lose.

She told the TMC leaders: You coordinate with them, build a platform and work unitedly. Now Jawhar Sircar (retired bureaucrat and TMC Rajya Sabha MP) is there. You can coordinate with him. There are many such people. When I visited Mumbai recently, civil society members joined me. The same thing happened in Goa too. It will happen more gradually. Nothing can happen in a day.

Outlining a roadmap, Ms Banerjee added: We still have two years time. Bengal has to be made more solid, meanwhile, to ensure our victory in all 42 (Parliament) seats. If Mr Modi and the BJP are to be defeated, one must remember that charity begins at home. Your base should be strong at your home. We should not do something which empowers the BJP. We will do something that would remove barriers in 2024. It should not be who will be in this group or that. There should be one group and uniformity in the TMC. We will take our party to a pan-India level further. Our economic, external affairs and other policy decisions will be released at our first working committee meeting, which will be held in New Delhi.

On the main Opposition party, the CM alleged: The Congress garners votes for the BJP in Meghalaya and Chandigarh. We wanted all anti-BJP parties to be united. But if someone ignores (us) and lives with ego, then Rabindranath Tagores famous song Ekla Chalo shows me the path If They Pay No Heed to Your Call, Walk Alone! While walking alone, I will stitch the whole of India with one flower after another like a garland.

Attacking the Union Budget, Ms Banerjee said sarcastically that the BJP would devour the curry of diamonds as the jewel was made cheaper in the Budget.
North Korea fired seven different types of missiles last month in a frenzy of fireworks to show off its capability to strike South Korea.

Early this week, the North fired a Hwasong-12 mid-range ballistic missile for the first time in four years. Experts believe it is only a matter of time before it launches an intercontinental ballistic missile as well.

North Korean state media said the launch was a random test aimed at checking the quality of its missile arsenal. The Hwasong-12 is believed to have a range of 4,500 km to 5,000 km. The latest one flew to an altitude of 2,000 km and traveled 800 km.
New Delhi: The problems in the Punjab Congress do not seem to be going away. As the high command is in the process of selecting a CM candidate -- between incumbent chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi and PCC chief Navjot Singh Sidhu -- a video has gone viral of former PCC chief Sunil Jakhar claiming that a majority of MLAs had backed him for CM after Capt. Amarinder Singh was forced to quit. Mr Jakhar is now campaign committee chief of the Congress in the state.

Addressing party workers in his native village, Mr Jakhar said: God does whatever is right. I have no regrets. Today I am telling you a fact -- that when former CM Capt. Amarinder Singh had left the Congress in September last year, all 79 MLAs were asked to vote for the next CM. At that time, 42 voted for me, 16 for Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, 12 for Preneet Kaur (Amarinder Singhs wife), six for Navjot Singh Sidhu and only two for Charanjit Singh Channi. The Congress finds itself in an embarrassing situation with the public remarks of its former state unit chief.

In the last couple of weeks, both Mr Channi and Mr Sidhu have been vocal that the Congress high command should announce a CM face for the coming elections. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said while he was touring Punjab recently that the party will soon take a call. Mr Channi has publicly said he will abide by the partys choice of CM candidate.

While Mr Sidhu may not be large-hearted enough, his ambition of taking over as CM is well known. Interestingly, he has been presenting his Punjab model to the people. The Congress has, meanwhile, started a tele-voting campaign to get public responses on who they want as CM. This move comes after its main challenger Aam Aadmi Party conducted a tele-voting exercise and then announced Bhagwant Mann as its chief ministerial candidate. In this system, the Congress is offering only two names -- Mr Channi and Mr Jakhar.

Insiders claim Mr Channi may be the high commands choice as they are happy with his performance, and he is also a dalit CM. Several leaders claim Mr Jakhar is also interested in the top job in the state. It will be a tight balancing act for the Congress to keep all sections happy. The state goes to the polls on February 20.
Star Minerals Ltd (ASX:SMS) was admitted to the official list of the ASX in October 2021 with two projects in Western Australia - Tumblegum South, 40 kilometres south of Meekatharra and the West Bryah Project, 120 kilometres northwest of Meekatharra.

The company was established as a spinout of Bryah Resources Ltd (ASX:BYH), as part of Bryahs strategy to monetise the Tumblegum South gold assets and copper-gold exploration assets in the Bryah Basin.

Stars $5 million oversubscribed IPO closed after receiving strong support from shareholders of Australian Vanadium Ltd (ASX:AVL) and Bryah together with Magnolia Capital Groups cornerstone investment of $2.5 million.

As planned by Star as part of its IPO, the company has already completed Phase 1 of its drilling program at Tumblegum South, which revealed strong gold grades.

Star will also continue with the early-stage planning work for the West Bryah Project while remaining vigilant and active in pursuing potential acquisitions or partnerships that may arise.

Tumblegum South Project

Tumblegum South has an existing inferred resource of 600,000 tonnes at a grade of 2.2 g/t gold.

The existing mining lease ML51/888 is directly along strike from the Tumblegum Pit which was mined by Dominion during the 19871992 Gabanintha Gold Mine Joint Venture.

Stars current focus is on gold, but there is also significant copper potential on the lease.

The company commenced Phase 1 drilling at Tumblegum South in October 2021, after mobilising crew and contractors to site following its listing on the ASX.

Drilling at Tumblegum South

All planned drilling was completed, with the resulting samples dispatched to an assay lab in Perth for analysis.

The first results from these assays came back in the last weeks of December.

High-grade results at Tumblegum

Initial assay results from the first phase of drilling at Tumblegum South shows continuation of geology and grade from earlier drilling.

Assay results include:

14 metres at 2.49 g/t gold;

4 metres at 15.07 g/t gold; and

6 metres at 3.07 g/t gold.

Star CEO Greg Almond said following the release of the results: We are very pleased to have completed this phase of the project.

The results confirm our initial assessment of Tumblegum South and provide further information to support the existing resource.

These results confirm the tonnage and grade information that we have for Tumblegum South and will provide more information for an updated Resource model as we progress our strategy.

Star CEO Greg Almond

Further work is in the planning stages to utilise this drilling and assay work to update the resource model and to provide the needed information for a scoping study to allow the company to proceed with its plans.

Next steps at Tumblegum South

Recent drilling results provides more information on the geology and mineralisation of Tumblegum South and gives the company confidence that the deposit is suitable for further work leading to a mining project study.

These results will also be used to inform further stages of drilling and resource work at Tumblegum  this work is currently being tendered to commence in February, with an independent update to the resource model to follow.

Regional geology

The Meekatharra area has a long association with gold mining with the first colonial settlement at Meekatharra established in 1894 after the discovery of gold in the area and miners moving to the new settlement from the other East Murchison goldfields.

The Gabanintha mining centre has many historical workings and small-scale shafts and adits where turn of the 19th to 20th century gold miners followed narrow high-grade shoots of gold-copper.

Peak mining during this period occurred between 1895 and 1910. This style of mining at Gabanintha ceased in 1944.

This region hosts significant mineral endowment. There are about 300 historical and operating sites, in an area that still has plenty of scope for discoveries.

Tumblegum South project geology

The Tumblegum South Project area is situated in the Archaean MeekatharraWydgee Greenstone Belt of the Western Australian Yilgarn Craton, specifically the Murchison Terrane.

The regions greenstone rocks have been metamorphosed, including areas of granulite facies, notably around the intrusive Lady Alma mafic igneous complex, seen in the project area.

Major nearby deposits include the historical Gabanintha mine site and a number of historical copper-gold mines, including the Flaherty, Lady Alma and Copper Hills mines along the same stratigraphic trend.

The project area setting has undergone intense folding and shearing, with the major shear structure dubbed the Gabanintha Shear by Dominion.

Tumblegum South resource

Very little work was done on the Tumblegum South ground, with most drilling to the north centred on what became the Gabanintha Mining project.

More recent activity occurred from 2013, performed by related companies under the direction of founders of Star Minerals.

This drilling work has been completed to a high standard, allowing the estimation of a Mineral Resource at the Tumblegum South Project:

West Bryah Project

The West Bryah Project is about 140 kilometres north of Meekatharra.

The project is an early-stage exploration project which can be characterised as offering potential, but little historical data.

The region was first explored by prospectors during the gold rush period between 1897 and 1911, centred on Peak Hill.

Modern exploration began in the 1960s and was undertaken by a range of companies searching for gold, uranium, manganese, iron ore and base metals.

Much of this work was soil sampling and shallow rotary air blast (RAB) drilling, and much of it was limited in scope, as other commodities were targeted so no gold assays are available.

Even when gold was the target, much of the drilling was in alluvial cover, with very limited work on the underlying strata.

Of the more interesting results, these will be used by Star to provide initial targeting for further investigation, sampling and drilling.

Due to the unproductive nature of much of the previous work, Star believes that these results were not effective and present an opportunity, as it indicates that more modern and effective methods may show good results.

Prospective for orogenic-style gold deposits

Star believes that the West Bryah project area is prospective for orogenic-style gold deposits and base metal VHMS deposits that may prove to be economic.

Work at the West Bryah project has been focused on further review of public data, and the planning of a soil sampling and drilling program to commence in 2022.
By Trend

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary Peter Szijjarto arrived in Azerbaijan on a visit, he wrote on his Facebook page, Trend reports.

According to him today he will have a dinner with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov.

"Tomorrow there will be a joint economic committee, a business forum and negotiations on energy issues," he added.
There is apprehension in some federal institutions and banks after anti-graft agents opened investigations into suspicious deals over the sales of assets seized by Assets Management Company of Nigeria from international fugitives Akanni Aluko and Jide Omokore.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently questioned the Managing Director of AMCON Ahmed Kuru, though there was no official disclosure of details.

However, anti-graft sources with knowledge of the matter told PREMIUM TIMES that the assets sales probe extends to top members of the National Assembly, officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and officials of First Bank and Polaris Bank suspected to have corruptly bought or facilitated sales of assets seized from Messrs Aluko and Omokore.

Messrs Aluko and Omokore are wanted over a billion-dollar scandal involving their company Atlantic Energy and suspicious oil deals facilitated by equally fugitive ex-minister petroleum minister Diezani Alison-Madueke.

Their debts to First Bank and Polaris Bank had been taken over by AMCON and their assets were subsequently seized to be resold to free up funds towards settling the debts.

However, AMCON, sources close to the EFCC probe said, sold the assets opaquely to National Assembly and CBN officials. And records suggest Aluko and Omokore were able to use fronts to re-acquire the assets seized from them, one source said.

The proceeds of the sales, amounting to N144 billion, were kept with First Bank and Polaris, instead of the federation account, the sources said.

Meanwhile, to secure Mr Kurus administrative bail last Thursday, both banks were asked by the EFCC to post a bail bond of N144 billion, the value of the proceeds of sales kept with them.

The spokespersons for First Bank  Folake Ani-Mumuney  and Polaris  Nduneche Ezurike  did not comment after calls and texts. Nor did spokespersons for AMCON and EFCC. AMCONs spokesperson Jude Nwauzor had previously told PREMIUM TIMES that his MD, Mr Kuru, was invited by the EFCC, not arrested.

Already, EFCC sources said executives of the banks have been summoned for interrogations.
Bharat Dynamics (BDL) rose 7.51% to Rs 524 after the company signed a contract worth Rs 3,131.82 crore for manufacture and supply of Konkurs - M anti-tank guided missiles to the Indian Army.

Konkurs - M is a second generation, mechanized infantry anti-tank guided missile, to destroy armored vehicle equipped with explosive reactive armour. The contract will be executed in three years.

With the latest contract, the net order book position of BDL stands at Rs 11,400 crore.

CMD, BDL Commodore Siddharth Mishra (Retd) stated that Konkurs - M is being manufactured by BDL under license agreement with a Russian OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). The missile has been indigenized upto maximum extent. BDL is also offering Konkurs- M missile for export to friendly foreign countries.

BDL has augmented its manufacturing capacity to meet the domestic as well as overseas demand for Konkurs - M. As a part of its global outreach, BDL is also offering Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, Nag, Milan-2T and Amogha, in addition to Konkurs - M, for exports.

BDL said it is laying lot of thrust on indigenization of its products manufactured under transfer of technology with foreign OEMs. The company is also strengthening its in-house R&D capabilities to take up product innovation.

BDL is the only company in India involved in manufacturing various types of missiles and underwater weapons for supply to the Indian Armed Forces and friendly foreign countries. The company also handles launchers, test equipment, refurbishment / life extension of missiles and counter measures systems for domestic as well as international market.

The Government of India holds 74.93% stake in BDL.

BDL reported a 64.8% rise in standalone net profit to Rs 43.25 crore on a 102.7% increase in net sales to Rs 486.54 crore in Q2 FY22 over Q2 FY21. The company will announce Q3 results on 14 February 2022.

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Washington: The global leader of the Islamic State network has died after blowing himself up, along with his wife and children, during a counterterrorism raid by US forces in north-western Syria.

President Joe Biden ordered the attack on Thursday night AEDT against Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi after months of planning by American special forces, resulting in the biggest US raid in Syria since the 2019 operation that killed the previous Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

A man rides his motorcycle past damaged shops after an operation by the US military in the Syrian village of Atmeh in Idlib province on Thursday. Credit:AP

Speaking at the White House, Biden said al-Qurayshis death had taken a major terrorist leader off the battlefield and has sent a strong message to terrorists around the world - we will come after you and find you.

Al-Qurayshi had overseen the spread of Islamic State-affiliated groups around the world, was responsible for a recent attack on the Gweiran prison in north-east Syria, which holds Islamic State fighters, and had been the driving force behind the genocide of the Yazidi people in 2014, Biden said.
Nigeria has called for a greater collaboration among Africans to effectively confront challenges such as climate change, public health, local vaccine production, among others.

Laolu Akande, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Office of the Vice President, in a statement, said that President Muhammadu Buhari made the call on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mr Buhari spoke at a meeting of the African Union (AU) on the New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD).

The meeting was under the auspices of the 39th Session of the NEPAD Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee (HSGOC), at the margins of the 35th Ordinary Session of the African Union.

Represented by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the virtual event, Mr Buhari said the continent needed to brace up for wider cooperation in public heath.

Climate change

PREMIUM TIMES in June 2021 reported concerns over the intensification of Africas ecosystem degradation driven by development activities of the rapidly expanding population and how experts championing Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) courses identified common agricultural practices driving land degradation in the continent.

Environmentalists shared their thoughts and experiences while speaking on how small-scale farmers and local communities can get involved in drylands restoration campaigns at a digital Global Landscape Forum (GLF).

To prepare itself more for intra African collaboration to fight public health challenges, work together to promote vaccine production in Africa, and prompt response to climate change and the zero-emissions targets, Mr Buhari was quoted as saying by Mr Akande on Wednesday.

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely weakened our economies but it has also left important lessons.

One is that Africa needs to prepare itself more for intra African collaboration to fight public health challenges, especially those of pandemic scale.

We must work together to promote vaccine production in Africa; second issue I would like to raise is Africas response to climate change and the zero-emissions targets set in Paris and at subsequent climate change meetings.

We must of course contribute our quota in protecting the environment and preventing climate change; but we must also continue to build sustainable power systems to accelerate development and create economic opportunities for our people.

On climate change, the president said Africa needs far more energy than the renewables sources could immediately provide.

According to him, Africa cannot but adopt gas as a transition fuel.

We must together make clear to the developed world that the current trend of withholding funds for investment in gas development is the wrong thing to do at this time.

On the success made by Nigeria in domesticating the NEPAD framework on sustainable development, Mr Buhari said that growth in the Nigerian ICT sector had been phenomenal.

He said that ICT recorded the highest growth of all the sectors of the Nigerian economy in 2020.

By intensifying Agricultural development, NEPAD inspired Home Grown School Feeding and other Social Intervention Programmes, we are feeding over nine million children in public schools daily and significantly improving the lot of our people.

It is worthy of note that through regional partnership, Nigeria is currently implementing the innovative strengthening of smallholder farmers capabilities towards productive land restoration amid COVID-19 in Nigeria.

This is not only to cushion the effect of COVID-19 in the country but also to accelerate the implementation of Africas regional initiative to restore degraded lands.

The president commended the foresight of the founding Fathers of NEPAD, AUs development agency and the continental initiative for the effective implementation of Agenda 2063.

He re-echoed the view that NEPAD was about the development of the continent  delivering to African citizens.

Let us look forward to working together in building a strong organisation for delivery of results on the continent, Mr Buhari said.

The vice president, in another development, received a delegation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) led by its President, Comfort Eyitayo, on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa.

He commended the adoption of the new, innovative framework for public finance management known as the ICAN-AI (ICAN Accountability Index) and noted the proposed amendment to the Act establishing ICAN.

The vice president expressed delight with the progress of the accounting body.

I am personally very happy to see that ICAN has grown from strength to strength, and I am particularly fascinated by some of what we are seeing especially forays into public education, he said.

In her remarks, Mrs Eyitayo lauded the Federal Governments consistent drive to revamp the countrys budget system, aligning with international best practice of having a January to December budget year and having Finance Acts to make the Appropriation Act more realisable.

Other ICAN officials present at the meeting included a former President of the Institute, Kolawole Bajomo, ICAN Vice President Tijjani Isa, and Registrar of the Institute, Ahmed Kumshe, among others.
(@FahadShabbir)

Washington, Feb 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Feb, 2022 ) :The FBI said Wednesday it was leading a nationwide investigation into a series of bomb threats against multiple universities and places of worship associated with the Black American community.

"Although at this time no explosive devices have been found at any of the locations, the FBI takes all threats with the utmost seriousness," the agency said in a statement.

On Monday and Tuesday, bomb threats were sent to churches and a dozen universities serving mostly African-American populations, forcing them into lockdowns while buildings were searched and cleared.

A similar set of threats were sent in early January to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) -- a federally designated network of schools established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to serve Black students, and where the majority of students today are Black.

The FBI said more than 20 field offices were working with state and local law enforcement to investigate the threats as "racially or ethnically motivated violent extremism" as well as "hate crimes," and that the investigation was "of the highest priority" for the agency.

Politicians across the political spectrum condemned the string of threats.

"Terrorism and racism have no place on college campuses or anywhere in our nation," said Nancy Pelosi, the lead Democrat in the US House of Representatives, in a statement.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, said that the threats against HBCUs "are abhorrent," and that "law enforcement can, will, and must find the cowards responsible for creating fear in these communities."
By Trend

Turkey is pursuing a policy of normalizing relations with Armenia with the consent and approval of Azerbaijan, the official representative of the ruling Justice and Development Party of Turkey, Omar Celik said, Trend reports.

According to him, as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated, "Turkey will not participate in any initiatives that the Azerbaijani people and state consider inappropriate."

Celik noted that after Azerbaijan's victory in Second Karabakh war, a new window of opportunity was created.

Citing Erdogan's quote that "if Armenia renounces its aggressive attitude towards Azerbaijan, a vision of a large-scale peace mechanism with the participation of other states of the region, Russia, Iran and Georgia may appear." Celik added that Erdogan, in order to promote regional peace and prevent a crisis in the Black Sea, resolutely continues this mission, and steps to normalize relations with Armenia are being taken with the approval and consent of Azerbaijan, within the concept of "One nation - two states."
The weather might be bleak and snowy for now, but the work from a local artist thats appearing at an opening exhibition on Friday at Sager Reeves Gallery in Columbia features warmer-weather, fanciful scenes depicting life re-imagined in Southeast Missouri, Mexico and other exotic climes.

Jim Wilson, retired college and university art teacher, prolific painter, and Farmington resident, is one of three artists to be featured in a show sponsored by Brian and Christine Grace at Sager Reeves Gallery, 1025 E. Walnut St. in Columbia.

The public opening is 6-9 p.m. on Friday but the exhibit will run through Feb. 25. The other two artists in the showing are Sharon Harper and Kelton Osborn, who appear to be new artists to the gallery, while Wilson has exhibited and sold some of his paintings there before. He said hell have about 20 paintings in the show, many of them landscapes, and almost all of them are what you might call fantastic realism.

Wilson said his aesthetic is something akin to Fellini combined with the southern literary icon William Faulkner, with a dash of the Netflix series, Ozark.

I paint fantasies about Missouri, and the show is set up to where I'm painting farms, long extensive landscapes that have a lot of funny business going on in the background, and not crazy people, but eccentric people, Wilson said, adding that his grandmother in Jackson was a big influence.

My grandmother was very, very eccentric, so she's kind of in there, with her ditzy manner. There's a bit of craziness in my family, so I love to paint about that stuff and have like, family get-togethers. Not necessarily picnic. Just get-togethers, he said. Where like, everybody's hanging out in a big plastic bowl on a farm, when really they should be in their own nearby pond. Another form is where all these kids are hanging around the pond, while the other part of the family's near the barn, barbecuing, and my grandmother is sitting out in the middle of a field, feeding pigs. Its a little commentary, as well.

Wilson has been known for the portraits hes completed locally and internationally, and his travels and different cities hes lived in, and the people  and pets  hes known also make their way onto his canvas.

You know, it's reality, but it's fantastic reality. They are really people and everybody is somebody I know, or theyre a type of somebody I know, he said. And I get to put my dog in there and our life in Mexico.

Mexico is where he met his wife of 30 years, Lourdes, who works part-time for the Farmington School District. Wilson said they still have a house down there and visit Lourdes family when they can.

Wilson grew up in Jackson and attended the Kansas City Art Institute, Yale University, and Boston University, and has exhibited his work at numerous galleries across the U.S. and Mexico. Hes received accolades in the New York Times and Arts Magazine, among other publications, and professorships at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Temple University, and finally Mineral Area College.

A return to the Midwest after living in New York, Philadelphia, and Mexico for much of his career gave Wilson fresh eyes for the landscape and characters of his childhood, leading him to a sort of ironic regionalism in his painting that monumentalizes everyday Midwestern scenes with tender familiarity, the gallerys summary of Wilsons work reads.

Sager Reeves Gallery, according to its website, is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. except during opening week, which is the week leading up to First Friday exhibits like Wilsons. The First Friday week offers private preview tours to members and patrons, and opens new exhibits to the public at 6 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. Remote viewing options include the always up-to-date website, Artsy, customized PDF catalogs, video appointments, and more.
Forest school helps spread love for nature

While unprecedented environmental challenges threatening the health and lives of millions of people around the world are ringing alarm bells for human behaviour towards the nature, Vietnam is home to a primeval forest described as a big school that has helped spread the love for nature for the past nearly six decades.













Rangers of Cuc Phuong National Park on patrol (Photo: VNA)

Nostalgia for Cuc Phuong



Filled with the nostalgia for the first national park in Vietnam, musician Tran Chung wrote a famous song titled Nho ve Cuc Phuong (Missing Cuc Phuong).



To many, the park spanning the provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa is more than nostalgia but a yearning for the place full of secrets awaiting visitors to explore.



To me, it was a fairytale land and an extremely meaningful reward that my school presented to good students like me. Returning after more than 30 years, the biggest surprise to me is that Cuc Phuong remains almost intact. Im really touched by the forest protection efforts as well as the way eco-tourism is organised here, said renowned broadcaster Bach Duong, who has volunteered to become an ambassador of Cuc Phuong for the past year.



Duong said that childhood memory and the horrible reality of climate change at present have prompted her to come back here to seek balance. Not only bringing her children to the park, she has also encouraged many families and young people to visit Cuc Phuong in efforts to call for environmental protection.



Sharing the love for Cuc Phuong that has grown thanks to her past trips, architect Tran Thi Thanh Thuy, a founding member of the Urban Sketchers Hanoi (USK Hanoi) group, accepted the parks invitation to organise a community fine arts workshop as part of a spring festival in the Lunar New Year holiday this year.



The USK Hanoi and I wish to use sketches to disseminate a message to all people, especially small children, about the respect and responsible behaviour towards forests - which create in us the strongest and sincerest feelings about Mother Nature, she noted.



Cradle of conservationists



Over 50 years ago, tens of young graduates from overseas courses eagerly took on their tasks at Cuc Phuong. It was also the time this forest, becoming the first national park in Vietnam not long before that, made Soviet Union experts thunderstruck.



With their youth and enthusiasm, they weathered every difficulty and hardship, even bombardments by US forces, to conduct basic and comprehensive studies serving as the foundation for evaluating the local biodiversity.



In particular, those trying times helped nurture a contingent of well-known scientists such as Nguyen Tien Ban, Tran Dinh Ly, Tran Ngoc Ninh, and Trinh Dinh Thanh.



Many people of younger generations have also become famous conservationists. They include Nguyen Van Thai, Director of Save Vietnams Wildlife, who was recently honoured with the Goldman Environmental Prize, a prestigious award considered a Green Nobel Prize for environmental activists; and Trinh Le Nguyen, co-founder of People and Nature Reconciliation (PanNature), who used to be an expert working at Cuc Phuong National Park.



Talking about Cuc Phuong, Nguyen said not only him but many others working in this field also feel indebted to the park, and that this cradle has nurtured their dreams and love for nature.



Big school in the forest



Managers of Cuc Phuong are striving to turn it into a model national park.



Deputy Director of the park Do Van Lap said to have a model national park, the first and foremost is to have model people. Given this, apart from forest protection and scientific research, environmental education is a core step to turn Cuc Phuong into a big school of nature education.



On the basis of this idea, a club for conservation education was set up at the national park. Supported by Fauna & Flora International (FFI) and Education for Nature - Vietnam (ENV), forest rangers have visited thousands of children in villages across the 15 communes located in the parks buffer zone over the last 20 years to instill the love for nature into the young.



Many of these children, in turn, have become forest rangers or teachers helping to improve the local communitys awareness.



Besides, wildlife rescue programmes at the park have also attracted Vietnamese and foreign students via summer camps or volunteering campaigns, equipping the young with knowledge about the nature and animal rescue and care skills.



Gaining valuable experiences from such activities, the young themselves will become ambassadors conveying the nature conservation message to others in their daily life./.
Investigators from Vietnams Ministry of National Defense are investigating a fire that occurred at a military material warehouse in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai on Wednesday morning.

Designated agencies have examined the scene of the fire at the K87.X military material depot, managed by the Department of Arms under the ministrys General Department of Technology in the provinces Ia Grai District, a source told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Wednesday afternoon.

The incident happened at 6:00 am the same day, when locals heard some explosions which were followed by a fire at the site.

The fire was not large and caused no casualties but a large amount of smoke generated from the blaze, along with the explosions, frightened residents around the depot.

Immediately after the blast, the provincial government directed the district authorities to coordinate with the Pleiku City administration to evacuate people living near the area to a safe place.

The Fifth Military Region, the Military Procuracy of Pleiku City, and other relevant agencies have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

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A moving poem written by a Victorian police officer on the night four colleagues lost their lives on duty has been recited during an emotional ceremony commemorating their service to the community.

Leading Senior Constable Lynnette Taylor, 60, Senior Constable Kevin King, 50, and constables Glen Humphris, 32, and Josh Prestney, 28, were remembered in a state memorial service on Thursday almost two years after their deaths.

The officers were standing in the emergency lane of Melbourne's Eastern Freeway, in Kew, about to impound a Porsche 911, when they were hit by a truck and killed on April 22, 2020.

More than 1500 people gathered at Docklands stadium to honour the four officers on Thursday, after the memorial was delayed 22 months due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions.

Four Victorian police officers have been commemorated almost two years their deaths in a state memorial service (pictured)

Senior Constable Kevin King (pictured, far left), Constable Glen Humphris (second from left), Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor (second from right) and and Constable Josh Prestney (far right) were killed on duty on April 22, 2020

Victorian Police Minister Lisa Neville said the four fallen officers 'paid the ultimate price while keeping us safe' before reading out a poem penned by a member of the force.

'Its not about the badge or the uniform we wear; We do it for you and because we care,' the poem began.

'We leave our families to protect your home and you; And we do it because we care about what we do.'

The script then described how officers serve aware of the risks, but are 'not made of steel' and subject to pain like all humans.

While police officers have 'seen many things' others would not want to, the author said members of the force have now 'seen it all' and 'felt such grief' after losing their four co-workers and friends.

'Tragically taken while they protected us all; Tragically taken and can't protect us anymore,' the verse continued.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews pictured arrives at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium on Thursday

Victoria Police are pictured arriving at Docklands Stadium on Thursday ahead of the service

Victoria Police form a guard of honour during a Memorial Service for four police officers

The family of leading Senior Constable Lynnette Taylor walk through a guard of honour at Marvel stadium

'The tears are now flowing and our hearts are aching; For the loss we are feeling and our hearts are breaking,

'Tonight we cry at the loss of family and friends; And the tears will never dry and our thoughts will never end,

'You live in our hearts and in our thoughts in every way.

'Of the risks that you took and the price that you paid.'

Many police officers were visibly upset through out the service, wiping tears away from their eyes as their gaze remained glued to the stage.

The tragedy marked Victoria Police's single greatest loss of life, with the truck driver responsible jailed for 22 years.

The ceremony began with the police pipe band welcoming a guard of honour of officers marching, while holding large framed photos of the four officers.

Among those in attendance were Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, Governor Linda Dessau, federal Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews and former Victorian premiers John Brumby, Ted Baillieu and Jeff Kennett.

Mr Andrews opened the ceremony, acknowledging the group as 'amazing Victorians' who put their lives on the line to protect other

More than 1500 mourners were in attendance, including 1000 Victorian police officers and 500 members of the public

Victorian police officers wiped away tears as their four fallen colleagues were commemorated

VICTORIAN POLICE OFFICER'S MOVING POEM 'Its not about the badge or the uniform we wear, We do it for you and because we care, We leave our families to protect your home and you, And we do it because we care about what we do, We do it to serve and protect you as best we can, We do it even though we know what the risks are at hand, Our uniforms arent strong and theyre not made of steel, Nor are our emotions of how we can feel, We are human, we feel pain just like you do, We see so many things you wouldnt want to, But tonight weve seen it all and felt such grief, Of losing four lives in circumstances that beggar belief, Tragically taken while they protected us all, Tragically taken and cant protect us anymore, The tears are now flowing and our hearts are aching, For the loss we are feeling and our hearts are breaking, Tonight we cry at the loss of family and friends, And the tears will never dry and our thoughts will never end, You live in our hearts and in our thoughts in every way, Of the risks that you took and the price that you paid.' Advertisement

Mr Andrews opened the service, acknowledging the group as 'amazing Victorians' who put their lives on the line to protect others.

'I doubt any of us will forget where we were and what we were doing when news filtered though that four officers - partners, parents, sons, daughters and siblings - had been killed in a terrible incident on the Eastern Freeway,' he told mourners.

'It affected all of us, it broke all of our hearts and it served as a reminder of how dangerous policing is.

'We honour their service. We grieve their loss. We commmit to never forget them, their values and the amazing Victorians they were.

'To run towards the danger. To put your safety on the line ... is a special thing.

'No words can properly describe our gratitude ... because the tragedy of that day hangs over each family. Today and all days, we remember and we say thank you.

The premier then paid tribute to each officer and spoke of the families they left behind, urging Australians 'let us never forget' them all.

'Lest us never forget Lynette Taylor, a member of the force for three decades whod seen just about every police station across the state. She was a devoted mum to her two sons Nathan and Alexander. She loved her husband Stuart and together they travelled and saw so much of the world.

Officers' eyes remained glued to the stage as they sombrely remembered their colleagues

The official party departs the ceremony carrying photos of the four officers and Australian flags

Mr Andrews said Glen Humpris (pictured) loved his family and partner Todd and was 'always full of life'

'Kevin King, who loved his family, the Tigers and his guitar. He adored his wife Sharon and their three sons James, William and Harry. He lived a life for others and was perhaps always destined to wear the Victoria Police uniform.

'Glen Humphris, who packed up his life and moved states to find his calling at Victoria Police. He loved his mum Katie, his dad Mark and his brother Wade. Always on the go and always full of life, Glen loved his partner Todd more than anything in the world.

'And let us never forget Josh Prestney, who loved his mum Belinda and his dad Andrew and his partner Stacey. He loved his brother Alex too, who will cherish the memory of awarding his brother with his police badge on the day of his graduation.

'We honour them as great Victorians. On this day, we thank every family that makes the extraordinary work, service and sacrifice of Victoria Police possible.'

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patten said it had been 653 days since the tragedy but 'not a day goes by where they're not in our thoughts'.

Senior Constable Kevin King (pictured with his partner Sharron Mackenzie) was remembered as a family man who loved the Tigers and his guitar

Mr Andrews said Josh Prestney (pictured) with partner Stacey Ryall loved his family and girlfriend

'Throughout these very dark days, the family of our fallen colleagues have shown courage, dignity, strength and resilience, in the face of what is already a heartbreaking experience and with the challenges of not being able to mourn collectively due to the COVID-19 restrictions,' he said.

The police chaplain who broke the news to Sen Const King's family on the day he died read out family tributes, including from his widow who described him as her 'soulmate'.

'We miss his smile, his laughter, his sense of humour and most of all his way of making things better,' Senior Police Chaplain Drew Mellor said, reading the tribute.

'Nearly two years on we still have the long, heartbreaking journey of life without Kevin.'

'To live that life, to run toward the danger, to put your safety on the line to protect others is a special thing. No words can properly describe its value or worth.'

About 1000 Victoria Police officers and 500 members of the public attended the memorial.

Funerals for the officers were restricted due to Victoria's first lockdown.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : CNN Worldwide president Jeff Zucker, the influential news executive who reshaped the iconic network, announced that he has resigned from his position effective immediately.

Zucker's stunning announcement on Wednesday came less than two months after he fired prime time anchor Chris Cuomo for improperly advising his brother, then-New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, about how to address sexual misconduct allegations, reports CNN.

"As part of the investigation into Chris Cuomo's tenure at CNN, I was asked about a consensual relationship with my closest colleague, someone I have worked with for more than 20 years," Zucker told employees in a memo.

"I acknowledged the relationship evolved in recent years. I was required to disclose it when it began but I didn't. I was wrong. As a result, I am resigning today." Zucker did not name his colleague, but the relationship is with Allison Gollust, his key lieutenant for the last two decades.

Gollust is remaining at CNN, the report said.

Zucker and Gollust both divorced from their partners years ago.

Rumours that their close working relationship had morphed into a romantic one have long been the subject of speculation and have occasionally surfaced in gossip columns.

Journalist Katie Couric, who once worked closely with Zucker, but later had a falling-out with him, even hinted at it in her tell-all memoir released last year, the report said.

News of Zucker's resignation sent shockwaves inside CNN and across the industry.

Zucker spoke with some of CNN's top executives on Wednesday morning, shortly before he announced his departure.

He indicated that he would have liked to stay on for a short period, to help with a smooth transition, but WarnerMedia wanted otherwise.

According to two people involved in the matter, Zucker was facing termination if he did not resign, the report said.
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI/Mediawire): CBSE Term 1 Exam finished in November 2021, and speculations are stating that CBSE Term 2 Exams will be held in March-April. CBSE has released its Sample Papers on January 14, 2022, which noted the pattern of the paper with a subject-wise marking scheme. Students are eagerly waiting for their term 1 result, but they should also focus on their CBSE Term 2 Board Exams 2022, as it's only one and a half months left for the exam. To score maximum in the upcoming board exams, it is very important to practice. Mere collecting knowledge won't land students anywhere if they don't practice as required. Students are always anxious about how sample papers help them much? Can they go with the sample papers to boost their performance? As exams are coming near, sample papers are the best material to perform best in your exam 2022. 5 Reasons why practice with sample papers: Many students think that practice doesn't have any role to play in the exam score. But it is not the case. Below are some of the important and concrete reasons why students need to focus on practice for the upcoming CBSE Term 2 board Exams 2022. * Know the pattern and creates ease for students: Sample papers help the students to know the pattern of the board exam. It gives you an overview of the exam paper with a marking scheme. It also gives you an idea of long questions, short questions, essential, and most likely questions with its marking scheme. * Robust your Preparation Analysis: Sample papers are always based on the latest syllabus of board exam directives to give an idea to the students. When students prepare a lot, they become familiar with the repetitive questions from every chapter, which increases their understanding and helps in learn more. Sample paper helps the students improve their analytical performance in each chapter. Students can also plan their exams with Oswaal CBSE Term 2 Sample Paper Class 10 & 12 For Board Exams 2022. Students will get different ways of learning: * Self-Assessment Papers for Term 2 Board Exams March-April 2022 * Oswaal CBSE Term 2 Sample Paper Class 10 & 12 For Board Exams 2022 include all latest typologies of Questions as specified in the latest CBSE Sample Papers Released On 14th Jan 2022 * On-Tips Notes & Revision Notes for Quick Revision * The CBSE Term 2 Sample Paper Class 10 & 12 For Board Exams 2022 include Mind Maps for Better Learning * The Book provides Free Oswaal 360 E-Assessments based on the latest Typologies of Questions as per CBSE Term 2 Board Exams 2022 Here is the recommended link for CBSE Term 2 Sample Paper Class 10 for Board Exams 2022, click here https://bit.ly/3HiMXmB Here is the recommended link for CBSE Term 2 Sample Paper Class 12 for Board Exams 2022, click here https://bit.ly/3IUZaOO * Raise Accuracy and Speed: "Practice makes a man perfect," it is rightly said, as when you practice more, you can learn more. Students can quickly improve their accuracy and speed by practicing sample papers daily. It also helps avoid mistakes and makes your syllabus easy for your board exams in 2022. * It helps in deciding a Deadline: Sample papers are just a copy of the paper that would be coming to your boards. Sample papers also come with time to finish your exam in the given time. Students can also set a deadline for solving the paper in 3 hours or 90 minutes, according to the time allotted for the paper. It will improve your writing and decoding speed and prepare you for the Term 2 exams 2022. For CBSE Board Exam term 2, improve your scorecard with sample papers! Read to know how! * Helps in revision When students start solving the practice papers after completing the entire syllabus, it also acts as a revision for them. They can quickly join the dots from their memory about what they remembered or where they need to emphasize. More the practice will be the clarity about the concepts. Conclusion Students should never forget the power of practice for the upcoming CBSE Term 2 Board Exams Class 10 & 12 2022. Only a couple of months are left for the exam, so it's high time that students should complete their syllabus at the earliest and start practicing. It will ultimately help to score maximum marks in the board exams. For further updates, keep on checking the official website and stay tuned!! All the Best!! This story is provided by Mediawire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/Mediawire)
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The company's plans for aggressive growth in India is well placed in the backdrop of the Union Budget which had significant focus on the logistics and transport sector. The move to bring Data Exchange among all-mode operators on a unified Logistics Interface Platform, designed for API will be a key factor in Blume Global's India strategy. Given that India's supply chain and logistics costs currently account for 14 per cent of the country's GDP (compared to global average of approximately 8 per cent), this is a great move and will bring India closer to the world standards. Blume can help through its Visibility Solution by utilizing the operator's data by doing the real time tracking of the shipments and also predicting the dynamic ETAs at the final delivery locations.

The other move in the Union Budget to award contracts for implementation of multi-modal logistics parks at four locations on a public-private-partnership (PPP) mode is another development that will aid the company's vision. These Mega Logistics parks will not only generate enormous employment and boost the economy but also make the supply chain leaner by making it a one stop shop for Multimodal Transport / Storage / Customs clearance / Workshops / Yards / Parking and much more. Blume Global can help with its Terminal VIP Services solution to book the appointments and help the scheduling on these Logistics Parks.

Blume Global, a leading provider of true end-to-end supply chain visibility technology solutions, has experienced exponential growth in India in less than two years. Since its Bangalore office opened in 2020, the India team has grown to nearly 400 employees, representing a $10 million investment in the local community.

Blume India will also be making a continued investment in the region as part of Blume's acquisition of LiveSource, a leading multi-enterprise supply chain business network for complex manufacturers. With LiveSource, Blume now provides complete, end-to-end supply chain visibility, extending the standard definition of visibility beyond the transportation of goods. Blume is the only worldwide supply chain technology provider that can support customers with real-time visibility from sourcing and procurement all the way through order delivery.

"Blume India is proud to serve our customers with the only neutral, single-source visibility solution that covers the entire supply chain, giving our users unique and unrivaled transparency and insight at a time when congestion and capacity constraints are still common," said Sudhir Unnikrishnan, senior vice president and managing director of India at Blume Global. "Though we were presented with the challenges of navigating through the pandemic, our ultimate successes were testament to the hard work and resiliency of Blume Global India, and we look forward to the bright spots ahead of us as we continue growing." When it opened, Blume's office in Bengaluru represented the entry of a 25-year-old supply chain technology provider into the Indian market. Since then, the area has benefitted from Blume's extensive rail and trucking industry expertise, helping Indian companies untangle their supply chains during the pandemic.

"Blume India is so much more than the R&D arm of our organization. That is why we have worked hard to gather a cross-section of the company in Bangalore, ensuring we can support all aspects of the Blume mission from India," said CEO Pervinder Johar. "Blume is a truly global logistics technology company, so there is no room for offshore thinking." Recognized as an employer of choice, Blume Global is dedicated to investing in its staff with competitive benefits and the option of remote work flexibility. Recently, the company announced a learning and development initiative available to all India staff that provides continuing education programs through Coursera, one of the world's largest online learning platforms. Blume employees can annually utilize 80 hours of training during business hours with access to courses and guided projects on supply chain management, data science and technology.
The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to postpone the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Exam, 2022 (GATE 2022) saying postponement of the exam will create "chaos and uncertainty" in the lives of students who have registered for the exam. A Bench headed by Justice DY Chandrachud dismissed the pleas seeking postponement of the GATE 2022 exam in view of the third wave of the COVID-19 and observed that it found no overarching reasons to supplant duties and responsibilities of regulatory authorities. The GATE 2022 is scheduled to be held on February 5, 6, 12 and 13. It also said that entertaining the petitions 48 hours before the exam will lead to uncertainty and chaos. "The plea for postponement of the GATE examination barely 48 hours before the scheduled date on February 5, 2022, is replete with a propensity for chaos and uncertainty in the lives of the students who have registered for the examination. There is no overarching reason that this court in the exercise of its jurisdiction under Article 32 of the Constitution should supplant the duties and functions of the regulatory authorities who have taken a decision to hold the examination," the Bench stated in its order while dismissing the pleas. As advocates Pallav Mongia and Satpal Singh, appearing for petitioners, requested for postponement of the exam, the apex court said that it cannot start posting exams like this. "Now everything is opening in the country. We can't play with the career of students. It is a matter of academic policy and these matters should be examined by them. It is very dangerous for the court to enter into this arena," it observed. Two petitions are filed in the issue - one by the students/candidates appearing for the GATE 2022 Exam - and other one a PIL on behalf of Umesh Dhande who runs an education institute that mentors students for GATE and other exams. "The country is currently suffering from a 'third Wave' of rising COVID cases with a number of daily cases touching a record 3 lakh and above. In this frightening situation that has engulfed the whole country, the Petitioners are being forced to write the GATE 2022 physically which poses a massive health risk on the lives of many aspirants like the petitioners," the pleas said. The petitioners have also challenged the instructions of January 15, 2022, issued by the Centre by which instructions to the candidates appearing for the exam were notified. The pleas said notification/ instructions to the candidates were annexed with the admit cards. The petitioners while stating that more than 9 lakh students are appearing for the exam across 200 exam centers, they said guidelines were not issued or procedures not set out to assess the health conditions of the students appearing for the exam. "The instructions issued also lacks clarity, creates confusion among students as it creates an unnecessary classification between students who will be allowed to appear for the exam and those who would be barred with no medical or legal basis. The instructions allow asymptomatic students who are showing symptoms to appear for the exam but not those students who have tested positive but are asymptomatic. There exists no intelligible differentia in such classification by the Respondents as per instructions and thus it is violative of Article 14 of the Constitution of India," the pleas stated. It is pertinent to point out that the instructions incentivize students who might be showing symptoms of COVID-19 to not get tested for COVID as a positive test will bar them from appearing for the exam, the pleas added. It further stated that on the contrary, the instructions allow students who are showing symptoms to appear for the exam but have not tested positive for COVID. The pleas said, "This classification is absurd and self-contradictory, and defeats the resolve of the Government to test maximum people for proper tracing and treatment." The petitioners also said that many states have already postponed some of their exams scheduled in January and February 2022, in light of third-wave hitting the country. (ANI)
Orthodox youth from around the world meet this year in Wrocaw, Poland, between July 18 and 23.

The Wrocaw 2022 meeting is hosted by the Orthodox Church of Poland and the Fellowship of Orthodox Youth in Poland, with the blessing of His Beatitude Metropolitan Sawa.

The event is inspired by the exhortation go and bear fruit (John 15:16) and is organized by an international youth workers group coordinated by Archdeacon Joseph Matusiak, according to basilica.ro.

The aim of the festival is to bring together dedicated youth workers and young adults from Orthodox churches worldwide to experience the unity and universality of the One Holy Church and to stimulate each other in the field of youth ministry.

The Wrocaw 2022 youth gathering is open for Orthodox youth aged 16 to 30. Those involved in Orthodox youth mission work benefit of priority, according to the organizers.

With the help of speeches, workshops and various other projects, Wrocaw 2022 will put into practice the Biblical exhortation go and bear fruit.

Prayer shall be at the heart of the Wrocaw 2022 events. Each day shall start with morning prayers and a homily on the Scripture Reading of the day.

The days are to end with the Evening Prayers and the clerics will be available for the Holy Confession. The Divine Liturgy is scheduled to be officiated twice during the event: at the Nativity of the Mother of God Cathedral in Wrocaw and at the final meeting place of the last evening in the programme.

Romania is represented at the meeting by the Association of Romanian Christian Orthodox Students (ASCOR). The announcement was made in November 2021 by the ASCOR National Council gathered in Alba Iulia, Romania.
UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for restraint in Guinea-Bissau after a failed coup in the African country, said his deputy spokesman on Wednesday.

"The secretary-general is continuing to closely follow the developments in Guinea-Bissau. He encourages all stakeholders, particularly defense and security forces, to exercise restraint and take all necessary measures to prevent any actions that could undermine peace and stability in Guinea-Bissau," said Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesman.

Guterres reiterated the need for all actors to respect the country's democratic institutions, and called on the authorities to ensure that investigations into the attempted coup on Tuesday are carried out in full compliance with human rights standards, said Haq.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo announced late Tuesday that the coup had been thwarted and several civilians and soldiers had been arrested. 
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine have signed a memorandum of cooperation, Ukrinform reports, referring to the SBU press service.

The memorandum of cooperation was signed at a meeting between SBU Head Ivan Bakanov and a delegation of the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine headed by its President Andy Hunder.

At the meeting, representatives of the American Chamber said they support Ukraine in its efforts to strengthen the security sector.

According to the SBU head, the Ukrainian authorities are making every effort to ensure that Ukraine be a reliable and consistent partner of its allies.

"This memorandum shows the readiness of the Ukrainian special services to cooperate. In times of hybrid challenges faced by our security, the SBU will continue to contribute to creating favorable conditions for business. This is really important for the economic stability of Ukraine, Bakanov said.

According to Hunder, "despite unstable situation in the media, the chamber's member companies continue to do business as usual, moving the country's economy forward, having invested more than $50 billion in Ukraine, creating jobs and filling the state budget."

"The business community in Ukraine has optimistic mood, said the president of the American Chamber of Commerce.

The parties agreed that countering hybrid threats in the media, economy and cyberspace is a common task of the private and public sectors.

The signing of a memorandum of cooperation and partnership once again confirms intentions of the parties to take practical steps to build a strong state to repel the aggressor.

As Ukrinform reported, in December 2021, Interior Minister Denys Monastyrsky and President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine Andy Hunder signed a memorandum of cooperation.

iy
At least 20 people have died and dozens more taken to hospital after taking poisoned cocaine in Argentina.

The poisonings took place in Buenos Aires, the country's capital, after the victims took cocaine laced with a toxic substance that attacked their nervous systems.

By Wednesday evening, some 74 people had been taken to hospital as authorities put out a warning for anyone who purchased cocaine from the poor Tres de Febrero neighbourhood to dispose of it.

Police are still trying to determine exactly what the cocaine was laced with, but believe it could be opioids. Investigators think the cocaine was deliberately poisoned as part of a war between traffickers.

At least 20 people have died after taking cocaine that police believe was poisoned with opiates in the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires

Another 74 people are in hospital suffering from sudden convulsions and heart attacks after taking the poisoned drugs

Investigators believe the cocaine was deliberately poisoned as part of a drug turf war (pictured, victims are taken into hospital)

Sergio Berni, the security chief for Buenos Aires province, said: 'Every dealer that buys cocaine cuts it. Some do it with non-toxic substances such as starch.

'Others put hallucinogens in it, and if there is no form of control, this kind of thing happens.

On this occasion, however, the drug was cut with a harmful substance as part of a 'war between drug traffickers,' Berni added.

About 10 people were arrested after police raided a house in Tres de Febrero where they believe the cocaine was sold.

Packets of cocaine similar to those described by the victims' families were seized. The drugs were taken to a laboratory in La Plata, the capital of Buenos Aires province, for analysis.

Authorities issued an urgent warning early Wednesday after three separate hospitals reported several deaths and serious cases of poisoning.

Doctors said the victims had suffered sudden convulsions and heart attacks.

Police have carried out raids in the poor neighbourhood of Taller Puerta 8 where they have arrested 10 people suspected of supplying the drug

Police are now analysing the cocaine to figure out exactly what it was poisoned with, but believe it may have been laced with opiates

Children are seen on the streets of Taller Puerta 8, a poor neighbourhood of Buenos Aires, as police carry out raids on nearby drug dealers

Police armed with shotguns arrive at a hospital where some of the victims of the poisoned cocaine are being treated in Buenos Aires

Several of those being treated told doctors they had taken cocaine together.

Beatriz Mercado told AFP she had found her 31-year-old son, one of the victims, lying face-down on the kitchen floor.

'He was almost not breathing, his eyes were rolling back,' she said. She took him to the hospital, where he was on life support as of Wednesday evening.

'I hope in God, nothing else. A miracle.'

An initial toll of 12 deaths and 50 hospitalizations kept rising - with victims admitted to eight different hospitals. Health authorities said at least four of the victims were men aged between 32 and 45.

Berni's office said late in the day that emergency services were reporting new patients in 'critical condition' being brought to hospitals.

Children throw plastic bottles on to burning tyres as they protest the arrests of 10 people suspected of supplying poisoned cocaine in Buenos Aires

A man drives past burning barricades in the Taller Puerta 8 neighbourhood of Buenos Aires, which was raided by police looking for poisoned cocaine

The San Martin public prosecutor, Marcelo Lapargo, told Radio Mitre that authorities' main concern 'is to be able to communicate, so that those who are in possession of this poison know that they should not consume it.'

Investigators fear the toll could rise, with some people who bought the cocaine unable to reach a care center in time.

Lapargo said that this case was 'absolutely exceptional.' He added that the idea of a battle between drug traffickers was 'conjecture' at this point.

Police clashed briefly with residents in a part of Tres de Febrero who were protesting the arrest of local young people in the drug raid.

'This event is absolutely exceptional. We have no precedent,' San Martin Attorney General Marcelo Lapargo told cable channel Todo Noticias.

'If the situation has escalated and the nature of trafficking has changed to the point where this becomes commonplace, I hope I never see it again.'
Sofia, Feb 3 : Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has been in self-isolation after his wife Desislava Radeva has tested positive for Covid-19.

Radeva is in good general condition, Xinhua news agency quoted an official statement as saying on Wednesday.

"The President is in good health and his coronavirus test today was negative," the statement said.

The President has cancelled the meetings scheduled for the next few days, it added.

Radev has self-isolated for the second time since the beginning of this year.

On January 11, he did so because Parliament Speaker Nikola Minchev tested positive for Covid-19 hours after a meeting of the country's Consultative Council on National Security where Radev also participated.

A total of 963,108 Covid-19 cases have been confirmed in Bulgaria so far, with 33,405 deaths, according to the Health Ministry.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
TWIN FALLS  We say rock chuck. They say groundhog.

But are we talking about the same marmot? Not so much.

Punxsutawney Phil  the plump prognosticator of spring  will repeat his annual Groundhog Day ritual Sunday as he wakes from his winter slumber in his namesake town in Pennsylvania.

After the furry varmint sees his shadow  or not  a dozen town dignitaries wearing top hats will parade Phil in front of thousands of onlookers, congratulating themselves for yet another successful spectacle.

But Phils predictions have been wrong 60% of the time since the 1887 start of his career at Gobblers Knob, just outside of Punxsutawney, according to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration.

Perhaps we in Idaho should introduce the Punxsutawney top hats to Phils cousins, our rock chucks.

The two rodents are not the same, although they share some vernacular names. For instance, groundhogs and rock chucks are called whistle pigs because they both make a whistling sound to warn others of danger.

The two belong to the family of large ground squirrels called marmots. Rock chucks are the yellow-bellied marmot, while groundhogs are, well, groundhogs. Physically, the two are similar  so similar, its hard to distinguish one from the other unless the rock chucks yellow belly is showing.

The easiest way to tell the two apart is by their habitat. Rock chucks are found in the mountainous regions of the West; groundhogs are found in lowlands of the Eastern U.S. and in Canada.

Predicting springs arrival

Just how did the groundhog get roped into this prediction predicament? The tradition came from European folklore that forecasts an early spring if the sky is cloudy on Feb. 2. If the sun shines, however, winter will last another six weeks.

Germans put a twist on the legend by saying the arrival of spring would be postponed if a badger saw his shadow on Feb. 2. Centuries ago, Germans immigrated to Pennsylvania, bringing the tradition with them  but instead of a badger, they adopted the local marmot for forecasting duty.

The groundhog legends theory has some merit, despite the rodents proven inability to predict the weather.

Marmots spend much of their time under the ground and arent particularly fond of the hot sun  so its understandable that the shy animal would dive back into its burrow at the first sight of bright sunlight. But whether that means six more weeks of winter is up for debate.

The longheld tradition is likely to continue unless the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals have their way.

In a recent letter to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, the president of PETA pleaded for mercy for the marmot, suggesting an animatronic meteorologist should replace Phil.

Times change. Traditions evolve. Its long overdue for Phil to be retired, Ingrid Newkirk wrote in the letter. By creating an AI Phil, you could keep Punxsutawney at the center of Groundhog Day but in a much more progressive way.

Or maybe we could offer them a rock chuck.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday said he is examining the privilege motions moved against Union Minister for Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw for 'misleading' parliament on the Pegasus issue.

After examination, a clarification will be sought from the minister. The decision to admit or reject would be taken depending on that.

Also Read | Samsung Galaxy S22 Series US Pricing Leaked Ahead of Its Launch: Report.

Naidu said in the Rajya Sabha that Congress' KC Venugopal and two more MPs have given notice of privilege against the IT minister.

Also Read | Realme 9 Pro Series India Launch Set for February 16, 2022.

"I am examining it," he said. "Once I examine it, I will have to seek the clarification of the minister and then we will get back to you."

Leaders of the Congress, TMC and CPI have moved privilege motions against Vaishnaw following a report in the New York Times claiming that the Indian government bought the Israeli spyware in 2017 as part of a USD 2 billion package for weapons.

The government maintained on the floor of the House that it had nothing to do with Pegasus and that it never bought the spyware from the NSO Group.

Most of the last winter session of Parliament was hit by the Pegasus controversy after reports alleged that the government was using the military-grade Israeli spyware to target political leaders, journalists, judges and civil society activists.

Earlier, when the House met for the day, Naidu said he has rejected a notice under rule 267 on the Pegasus issue.

Admission of a notice under rule 267 calls for setting aside the business of the day to take up the issue being listed in the notice.

"There is a notice under (rule) 267 for which I have already given my decision yesterday about Pegasus. I am not accepting it," 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)
Pune, Feb. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market 2022 research report study entails a thorough examination of the industry's future and current conditions. The study also breaks down market size, both in terms of volume and value, and market share, by geography. Market classifications, applications, primary supply chain structure, and principles are all discussed in the Voluntary Carbon Offsets market. The most recent market analysis survey, which is aimed at a global audience, looks at development patterns, the growth status of main regions, and a business outlook overview. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Voluntary Carbon Offsets market share, global consumer prices, and annual growth rate was also examined in the study.

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Moreover, the research report gives detailed data about the major factors influencing the growth of the Voluntary Carbon Offsets market at the national and local level forecast of the market size, in terms of value, market share by region, and segment, regional market positions, segment and country opportunities for growth, Key company profiles, SWOT, product portfolio and growth strategies.

About Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market:

The total data of this report covers the global voluntary carbon market. In the report, revenue is based on the location of the project supplier rather than the actual location of the project.

Carbon offsets are measured in metric tons of carbon dioxide-equivalent (CO2e) and may represent six primary categories of greenhouse gases: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). One carbon offset represents the reduction of one metric ton of carbon dioxide or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases. There are two markets for carbon offsets. In the larger, compliance market, companies, governments, or other entities buy carbon offsets in order to comply with caps on the total amount of carbon dioxide they are allowed to emit. This market exists in order to achieve compliance with obligations of the Kyoto Protocol, and of liable entities under the EU Emission Trading Scheme. In the much smaller, voluntary market, individuals, companies, or governments purchase carbon offsets to mitigate their own greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, electricity use, and other sources. For example, an individual might purchase carbon offsets to compensate for the greenhouse gas emissions caused by personal air travel. Many companies offer carbon offsets as an up-sell during the sales process so that customers can mitigate the emissions related with their product or service purchase (such as offsetting emissions related to a vacation flight, car rental, hotel stay, consumer good, etc.).

As shown in the figure below, carbon dioxide emissions are constantly increasing, which makes more and more people realize the importance of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. This voluntary market has prompted project developers to create technological innovations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Since trading of voluntary carbon offsets first took off in the late 2000s, voluntary carbon projects have helped to reduce, sequester, or avoid over 435.7 MtCO2eequivalent to not consuming over one billion barrels of oil. These projects are supported by companies, individuals and governments purchasing carbon offsets.

There are two markets for carbon offsets. In the larger, compliance market, companies, governments, or other entities buy carbon offsets in order to comply with caps on the total amount of carbon dioxide they are allowed to emit. This market exists in order to achieve compliance with obligations of the Kyoto Protocol, and of liable entities under the EU Emission Trading Scheme.

In the much smaller, voluntary market, individuals, companies, or governments purchase carbon offsets to mitigate their own greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, electricity use, and other sources. For example, an individual might purchase carbon offsets to compensate for the greenhouse gas emissions caused by personal air travel. Many companies offer carbon offsets as an up-sell during the sales process so that customers can mitigate the emissions related with their product or service purchase (such as offsetting emissions related to a vacation flight, car rental, hotel stay, consumer good, etc.).

Get a Sample Copy of the Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Research Report 2022

This report gives a detailed description of all the factors influencing the growth of these market players as well as profiles of their companies, their product portfolios, marketing strategies, technology integrations, and more information about these market players. Some of the major players are as follow:

The Major Key Players Listed in Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Report are:

South Pole Group

Aera Group

Terrapass

Green Mountain Energy

Schneider

EcoAct

3Degrees

NativeEnergy

Carbon Credit Capital

GreenTrees

Allcot Group

Forest Carbon

Bioassets

CBEEX

Biofilica

WayCarbon

Guangzhou Greenstone

Market Analysis and Insights: Global Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market

With industry-standard accuracy in analysis and high data integrity, the report makes a brilliant attempt to unveil key opportunities available in the global Voluntary Carbon Offsets market to help players in achieving a strong market position. Buyers of the report can access verified and reliable market forecasts, including those for the overall size of the global Voluntary Carbon Offsets market in terms of revenue.

On the whole, the report proves to be an effective tool that players can use to gain a competitive edge over their competitors and ensure lasting success in the global Voluntary Carbon Offsets market. All of the findings, data, and information provided in the report are validated and revalidated with the help of trustworthy sources. The analysts who have authored the report took a unique and industry-best research and analysis approach for an in-depth study of the global Voluntary Carbon Offsets market.

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Global Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market: Segment Analysis

The research report includes specific segments by region (country), by company, by Type and by Application. This study provides information about the sales and revenue during the historic and forecasted period of 2016 to 2027. Understanding the segments helps in identifying the importance of different factors that aid the market growth.

By Type:

Forestry

Renewable Energy

Landfill Methane Projects

Others

By Application:

Personal

Enterprise

Get a Sample Copy of the Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Research Report 2022

Geographic Segment Covered in the Report:

The Voluntary Carbon Offsets report provides information about the market area, which is further subdivided into sub-regions and countries/regions. In addition to the market share in each country and sub-region, this chapter of this report also contains information on profit opportunities. This chapter of the report mentions the market share and growth rate of each region, country and sub-region during the estimated period.

North America (United States, Canada and Mexico)

Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Russia and Turkey etc.)

Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam)

South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia etc.)

Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)

Study Objectives of this report are:

To study and analyze the global Voluntary Carbon Offsets market size (value and volume) by company, key regions/countries, products and application, history data from 2016 to 2021, and forecast to 2027.

To understand the structure of Voluntary Carbon Offsets market by identifying its various subsegments.

To share detailed information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (growth potential, opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks).

Focuses on the key global Voluntary Carbon Offsets manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the sales volume, value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis and development plans in next few years.

To analyze the Voluntary Carbon Offsets with respect to individual growth trends, future prospects, and their contribution to the total market.

To project the value and volume of Voluntary Carbon Offsets submarkets, with respect to key regions (along with their respective key countries).

To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market.

To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies.

Key Stakeholders:

Raw material suppliers

Distributors/traders/wholesalers/suppliers

Regulatory bodies, including government agencies and NGO

Commercial research and development (RandD) institutions

Importers and exporters

Government organizations, research organizations, and consulting firms

Trade associations and industry bodies

End-use industries

This Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Research/Analysis Report Contains Answers to your following Questions

Which Manufacturing Technology is used for Voluntary Carbon Offsets? What Developments Are Going On in That Technology? Which Trends Are Causing These Developments?

Who Are the Global Key Players in This Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market? What are Their Company Profile, Their Product Information, and Contact Information?

What Was Global Market Status of Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market? What Was Capacity, Production Value, Cost and PROFIT of Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market?

What Is Current Market Status of Voluntary Carbon Offsets Industry? Whats Market Competition in This Industry, Both Company, and Country Wise? Whats Market Analysis of Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market by Taking Applications and Types in Consideration?

What Are Projections of Global Voluntary Carbon Offsets Industry Considering Capacity, Production and Production Value? What Will Be the Estimation of Cost and Profit? What Will Be Market Share, Supply and Consumption? What about Import and Export?

What Is Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Chain Analysis by Upstream Raw Materials and Downstream Industry?

What Is Economic Impact On Voluntary Carbon Offsets Industry? What are Global Macroeconomic Environment Analysis Results? What Are Global Macroeconomic Environment Development Trends?

What Are Market Dynamics of Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market? What Are Challenges and Opportunities?

What Should Be Entry Strategies, Countermeasures to Economic Impact, and Marketing Channels for Voluntary Carbon Offsets Industry?

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Detailed TOC of Global Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Report 2022

1 Report Overview

1.1 Study Scope

1.2 Market Analysis by Type

1.2.1 Global Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Size Growth Rate by Type: 2016 VS 2021 VS 2027

1.2.2 Forestry

1.2.3 Renewable Energy

1.2.4 Landfill Methane Projects

1.2.5 Others

1.3 Market by Application

1.3.1 Global Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Share by Application: 2016 VS 2021 VS 2027

1.3.2 Personal

1.3.3 Enterprise

1.4 Study Objectives

1.5 Years Considered



2 Global Growth Trends

2.1 Global Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Perspective (2016-2027)

2.2 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Growth Trends by Regions

2.2.1 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Size by Regions: 2016 VS 2021 VS 2027

2.2.2 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Historic Market Share by Regions (2016-2021)

2.2.3 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Forecasted Market Size by Regions (2022-2027)

2.3 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Industry Dynamic

2.3.1 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Trends

2.3.2 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Drivers

2.3.3 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Challenges

2.3.4 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market Restraints

3 Competition Landscape by Key Players

4 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Breakdown Data by Type

5 Voluntary Carbon Offsets Breakdown Data by Application

6 North America

7 Europe

8 Asia-Pacific

9 Latin America

10 Middle East & Africa

11 Key Players Profiles

12 Analyst's Viewpoints/Conclusions

13 Appendix

Continued.

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Market Reports World is the Credible Source for Gaining the Market Reports that will provide you with the Lead Your Business Needs. The market is changing rapidly with the ongoing expansion of the industry. Advancement in technology has provided todays businesses with multifaceted advantages resulting in daily economic shifts. Thus, it is very important for a company to comprehend the patterns of the market movements in order to strategize better. An efficient strategy offers the companies a head start in planning and an edge over the competitors.
New Delhi, Feb 3 : The Union Budget gains applause for digitalization of education and making it accessible at the grassroots level. Still, many believe more could have been done to elevate the quality of education as well.

The leading names among the country's higher education fraternity welcomed the Union Budget 2022, announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. The sector appreciated the budget being in line with promoting human capital through digital tools such as the 'one class one TV channel' programme proposed under the PM e-Vidya scheme.

It laid out a progressive vision the Government holds for capitalizing on India's demographic advantages by suggesting a digital university, creating a conducive environment for inter-university collaborations, and introducing a number of skill development programmes. The Union budget 2022-2023 has allocated Rs 63,449.37 crore to the Department of School Education and Literacy, an increase of about 6.6 per cent (Rs 9,000 crore) over the current financial years. It sets a straight road for the Government to achieve its long-term mission of increasing the employability of the country's youth by promoting upskilling, reskilling and several learning measures equipping them with new-age skills.

Dilip Puri, Founder & CEO, Indian School of Hospitality, appreciated the move stating, "We welcome the new initiatives introduced by the Government in the Union Budget 2022 to revive and boost our economy. The Government has identified areas that need financial assistance and support, and a clear focus is laid on the education sector. The setting up of digital universities is a progressive move by the Government - by reaching out to every student in the remote corners of our country, they will give them access to education by collaborating with world-class institutes and educators. We hope the execution comes through swiftly and accelerates the growth of edtech. We are also delighted that the Government showed specific interest to promote and facilitating upskilling and reskilling programmes. We hope through continuous skilling avenues we are able to direct our efforts towards skilling aspirants and increase employability in the hospitality sector." Shishir Jaipuria, Chairman FICCI Arise and Chairman Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions, also commended the government's efforts in aligning the budget provisions with the progressive elements of National Education Policy 2020.

Shishir Jaipuria said, "The Union Budget 2022 takes forward the vision of universalizing quality education as enshrined in the National Education Policy 2020. The decision to expand the PM e-VIDYA scheme to 200 TV channels and to also develop high-quality e-content in all spoken languages will benefit the students of grades 1 to 12, who suffered learning loss due to the closure of schools during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"The formation of Digital University, as announced in the budget, will be a laudable initiative. The Digital University will help to make world-class education accessible in different Indian languages to all students, even in far-flung areas. The simultaneous proposal to train teachers to build their competency and empower them to develop quality e-content will ensure better learning outcomes. I welcome the move to set up 750 e-labs in science and mathematics and 75 skilling e-labs that will nurture scientific temperament and critical thinking skills important for 21st-century learners.

"Going beyond the e-learning initiatives, the government has rightly decided to designate five academic institutions as 'centres of excellence to deliver courses in urban planning and design. The move will take forward the vision of India-specific urban development. The budget 2022 is aimed at providing a major push to e-learning, reduce learning gaps and make education inclusive." Niranjan Hiranandani, Provost - HSNC University appreciated the government's construct of a well-rounded budget, promoting equal accessibility of education and growth mindset among students, irrespective of their backgrounds.

Hiranandani said, "Industry lauds & welcomes the thrust to the digital ecosystem while focussing on building and upgrading the digital infrastructure for quality education. Setting up of digital universities will enhance the availability of education to the rural students following the hub and spoke model. With easy access to education in regional language, every student will get an opportunity to empower and equip themselves.

"Moreover, measures for quality e-content appear promising to educate teachers effectively for better e-teaching outcomes. Besides, there is a surge in the scope of personalized learning, especially in the digital ecosystem. The budget also puts required emphasis on skilling, which makes an individual employable and sustainable. The skilling courses will not just encourage learners to apply critical thinking and creativity but also make them industry-ready, which is evidence of shaping the youth of India for a better future." Understanding the need for skill-based education, Bikram Agarwal, CFO, Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions, praised the budget offerings.

Agarwal said, "The most important takeaway of the Union Budget 2022 is the slew of decisions that have been taken to empower the digital learning ecosystem in the country. The formation of Digital University and the initiative to create quality e-content in all Indian languages will make learning inclusive for all. Besides these moves to nurture academic rigour, the decision to launch the DESH-Stack e-portal will help to skill and upskill learners.

"At the same time, the Government aims to improve learning at Agriculture University by revising and revamping the syllabus to address the practical needs of modern agriculture. I also appreciate the decision to involve academia in defence research and development for better designing and development of military platforms and equipment. The scope of this budget is quite wide. It touches upon several aspects of the education sector and is to be lauded." While many applauded these moves, some believed that the government could have done more. The budget critics felt that this year saw lesser investments and initiatives relative to the last year's budget for promoting quality education across all strata of society.

Reacting to the budget, Professor Tarun Jain, Associate Professor of Economics, IIM Ahmedabad, said, "The Finance Minister has mentioned supplementary teaching through additional TV channels (PM eVidya) to make up for the education loss of the last two years. This is minuscule given the tremendous learning loss that our children have experienced. Significant investments in improving school quality are critical for ensuring that our demographic dividends are actually realized. This has to run against the reality that barely 8 per cent of rural students and 23 per cent of urban students have access to the Internet.

Even when students have Internet access, the quality of online education remains poor. We have to benchmark the budget commitments against the aspirations of the Indian people. High-quality education is both a critical component of what young people hope for, and also have some of the highest returns on investment in the economy. Thus, the Government should consider boosting investments in public education considerably." Overall the Union Government received a favourable response for its budgetary recommendations to promote skill-based learning powered by digitalization. From short-term skilling programmes to upskilling, reskilling, apprenticeships and lifelong learning, a wide range of training opportunities have been put across by setting up thousands of skill centres and special training centres. The budget ensured that the Government's focus on skill training would continue to make youth employable, further contributing to the country's growth and economic health.
Jerusalem, Feb 3 : Israel and the UK have agreed to upgrade the free trade agreement (FTA) between the two countries, the Ministry of Economy and Industry of the Jewish state said in a statement.

Agreed at a meeting held in Jerusalem between Israeli Economy Minister Orna Barbivai and the UK's Secretary of State for International Trade Anne-Marie Trevelyan, the new trade deal will lead to the removal of barriers in the goods and services trade between the two countries, Xinhua news agency reported citing the statement as saying.

The FTA between Israel and the UK was signed in 2019 and took effect at the beginning of 2021.

Since the agreement was based on Israel's trade agreement with the European Union signed back in 1995, the two countries are interested in a more up-to-date and modern agreement, according to the statement.

The Ministers also discussed the creation of joint platforms for businesses and the details of a planned Britain-Israel innovation summit this spring, with the participation of senior government officials, business representatives, chambers of commerce and more.

With a trade volume totalling $7.7 billion last year, the UK is Israel's third largest trading partner, as China and the US top the list.
TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Agritask has secured a US$26M funding round led by Liechtenstein Group and joined by Bridges Israel impact investment fund and Smart Agro Fund, as well as existing investors including The Insuresilience Investment Fund. The company will use the funding to accelerate development of innovative products, scale up sales and marketing operations worldwide, and attract and onboard key talent to join its international team.

Founded in 2010 by serial entrepreneur Israel Fraier, Agritask's SaaS Agronomic Intelligence (AgI) platform drives transparency, insights, and better decision making across the agri-food value chain, focusing primarily on the Food & Beverage and Agricultural Insurance industries.

The impact of climate change on global food systems, and specifically on the Food & Beverage industry, is becoming ever more apparent. Yield reduction and volatility patterns in food crops are compromising and at times breaking supply chains. This, combined with growing concern for farm communities and the environment by both manufacturers and consumers, is pushing the industry to adopt solutions that will help the transformation toward predictable and sustainable supply chains and production practices.

Over the past two years, Agritask has seen significant growth and adoption by world-leading Food & Beverage companies. Brands such as Starbucks and Heineken use Agritask to minimize risk and better predict supply chains, optimize farming operations, and ensure sustainable farming and sourcing practices.

Agritask has also partnered with leading ag-insurance companies including SCOR, Zurich, and MAPFRE to extend their portfolios of insurance products. With Agritask, clients within the agri-food ecosystem have been able to provide hundreds of thousands of small-scale farms in developing countries access to technology, farming best practices, and agriculture insurance products that improve their livelihoods.

"We were very impressed with the traction that Agritask has already achieved globally, as well as their people, vision, and strategy," said Constantin Liechtenstein and Johannes Meran, Managing Partners of Liechtenstein Group, "We are actively looking for sustainable and innovative business models to invest in, and we see that Agritask can play a key role in securing the future of food production and impacting the lives of millions of farmers."

Agritask's platform provides the Food & Beverage industry with actionable agronomic intelligence. Agritask monitors over 50 different crop types across more than 2 million hectares of land across 35+ countries worldwide. Data captured from multiple sources including a mobile app, remote sensing, weather stations, satellite imagery, sensors, irrigation, machinery, and integrations with more than 70 agronomic systems and enterprise software feeds into Agritask's global agronomic data hub, massive in variety and scale. Through machine learning combined with in-house agronomic expertise, Agritask offers insights and models for crop growth, yield estimations, and risk assessment enabling its customers to transform agri-food supply chains and promote sustainable farming and sourcing practices.

"Liechtenstein Group has been investing in sustainable, innovative businesses for generations, and it's wonderful to see our vision and approach validated by them, along with new and returning co-investors," said Ofir Ardon, CEO of Agritask. "We are seeing the Food & Beverage industry spearheading a radical change in the agri-food supply chain, increasing their engagement with and support of farmers to move to sustainable and regenerative agriculture. Technology and data play a key role in creating transparencies across the agri-food ecosystem, and Agritask is in a unique position to lead the way. We are looking forward to growing our team and scaling up our work with the world's leading brands."

Agritask is headquartered in Tel Aviv and employs 70 people worldwide with offices in Brazil and Bulgaria.

About Agritask

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As per Deadline, 'Twilight Zone' writer Selwyn Seyfu Hinds is adapting the limited series for 20th Television.

'Washington Black' follows the extraordinary 19th-century adventures of George Washington "Wash" Black - an 11-year-old boy on a Barbados sugar plantation who must flee after a shocking death threatens to upend his life.

Brown will play the gregarious, larger-than-life Medwin Harris, who travelled the world after a traumatic childhood as a Black refugee in Nova Scotia as the de facto Mayor of Black Halifax prioritizes the community over everything except Washington Black, his young protege. Meeting Wash sends him down a challenging path of self-discovery, and as the barricades around his heart start to fall, Medwin will learn to dream again.

Ellis will play Christopher "Titch" Wilde, an eccentric, passionate steampunk inventor whose youthful enthusiasm masks an inner vulnerability. A disturbing death at his family's sugar plantation catapults Titch on a remarkable journey across the sky with young George Washington Black at his side.

Titch finds himself thrust into the position of mentor and father figure to Wash -- a role he is ill-prepared for because Titch is chasing the shadow of his own father, an inevitable reckoning that threatens to doom him and Wash both.

Ellis joins Ernest Kingsley Jr., who stars in the title role, along with Iola Evans, Edward Bluemel, Sharon Duncan-Brewster and Brown, who also serves as executive producer.

'Washington Black' is executive produced by Hinds, who also serves as showrunner, along with Brown under his Indian Meadows Productions banner, series writer Jennifer Johnson, and The Gotham Group's Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, Jeremy Bell, Lindsay Williams and DJ Goldberg.

Series directors Wanuri Kahiu and Mo Marable also serve as executive producers, along with Anthony Hemingway. Esi Edugyan is co-producer.

Ellis is coming off the titular role as Lucifer Morningstar in 'Lucifer', which wrapped its sixth and final season in September. He recently finished filming a leading role in 'Players', a romantic comedy from Netflix co-starring Gina Rodriguez and Damon Wayans Jr. (ANI)
Lucknow, Feb 3 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Thursday, claimed that his government in the past five years had set up several milestones.

Addressing a press conference before leaving for Gorakhpur where he will file his nomination papers on Friday, the chief minister said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his government had achieved Covid management and this was appreciated worldwide.

"Our challenge was to save life and livelihood and we managed to do both. We are leading in vaccination too," he said.

He said that the state's economy has gone up to the second position from the earlier sixth or seventh position that it held.

"In the past five years, we increased the par capital income of the people. We provided a conducive atmosphere for investors and industrialists which also led to job creation," he said.

Talking about police reforms, Yogi Adityanath that he addressed the problems of the police force and gave promotions to pending cases.

"We also worked towards modernisation of the force and provide modern equipment and better facilities for the police, including better houses for the policemen," he added.

The chief minister said that his government set up forensic labs which help in better investigations. He further said that women recruitment in the police had gone up three times.

"All gram panchayats now have women police personnel and we have achieved good results in crime control," he stated.

Citing the National Crime Records Bureau statistics, the chief minister said that crime figures had come down appreciably in the past five years.

He further said that his government had put an end to mafia and organised crime and the stern action taken against such elements was now proving to be a major deterrent.

"During the BSP government, 364 riots had taken place and 700 riots during the SP regime but not a single riot took place in my regime," he said.

Yogi Adityanath said that the double engine governments at the centre and in UP had turned around the MSME sector which was now heading towards a remarkable growth.

The chief minister said that the image and perception of Uttar Pradesh had changed drastically in the past five years and with expressways and defence corridors, that was poised for a new tomorrow.
Panaji, Feb 3 : Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday urged voters of rival political parties to vote for AAP, accusing the former BJP, Congress governments of indulging in scams.

"I urge the voters of both Congress and BJP to stay with their respective parties, but vote for AAP this once. You have given BJP 15 years in power and the Congress was in power for 25 years, they have brought Goa nothing but scams," Kejriwal told a press conference in Panaji.

"BJP voters had given the party 15 years to rule. I want to ask BJP voters, what has the BJP done for you, your family and Goa. Nothing. I am not saying quit BJP, all I am saying is you vote the AAP this time," hel said, accusing BJP leaders of being part of various scams in the power, labour, employment, health sectors.

"Congress ruled Goa for 25 years. Congress did nothing for Goa or your family. The Congress did only scams. Congress helped the BJP form governments. Congress has became the feeder cadre for the BJP." Kejriwal also claimed that while BJP governments "covered-up" scams of the Congress regime, the Congress, he said, transferred its MLA base to the BJP over the last five years. 13 Congress MLAs crossed over to the BJP between 2017-2019.

"BJP is claiming that even if we get 8 MLAs, we will form a government. They are openly saying we will buy MLAs. Can someone be as shameless as this," he said.

Referring to other regional parties in the fray, like the like the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and the Goa Forward Party, Kejriwal said that the MGP and the GF know that "they are not going to come to power".

"They will split votes instead," Kejriwal said, urging voters of the two regional parties to cast ballot in favour of the AAP this once.

The AAP is contesting 39 out of the 40 state Assembly seats which go to polls on February 14.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Waterloo (Ontario) [Canada], February 3 (ANI): Exercise has been known for being beneficial for a number of reasons, including a healthy heart, keeping diabetes at bay and protecting from obesity. But what about dry and itchy eyes? A team led by researchers from the University of Waterloo has made some interesting discoveries about the same.

They discovered that a significant increase in tear secretion and tear film stability after participating in aerobic exercise can be another remedy for relieving dry, itchy eyes. Their study, 'Differential effect of maximal incremental treadmill exercise on tear secretion and tear film stability in athletes and non-athletes' was published in the journal, 'Experimental Eye Research'.

Also Read | Karnataka: Security Gaurd Posing As Cop Dupes Man of Rs 17,000 on Pretext of Offering Seized Scooter at Cheaper Rate; Arrested.

The study was co-authored by Otchere, the University of Cape Coast's Samuel Abokyi, Sekyere Nyamaah, and Michael Ntodie, and Ghana's Our Lady of Grace Hospital's Yaw Osei Akoto.

Every time we blink, our eyes are covered in tear film--an essential protective coating necessary for maintaining healthy ocular function. Healthy tear film comprises three layers-oil, water, and mucin-that work together to hydrate the ocular surface and protect against infection-causing irritants like dust or dirt.

Also Read | Brussels: European Parliament Gives Centre Stage to Afghan Women.

When any part of the tear film becomes unstable, the ocular surface can develop dry spots, causing eye symptoms like itchiness or stinging and burning sensations.

"With so much of our activity tied to screen usage, dry eye symptoms are becoming increasingly common," said Heinz Otchere, a PhD candidate in vision science at Waterloo. "Instead of having to use eye drops or other alternative treatments, our study aimed to determine if remaining physically active can be an effective preventative measure against dryness."

Fifty-two participants were divided into two groups--athlete and non-athlete--to participate in an exercise session. Participants in the athlete group exercised at least five times per week, while non-athlete participants exercised no more than once per week. Researchers, which included experts from the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, performed visual examinations before and five minutes after each exercise session, where tear secretion and tear break-up time were assessed.

While participants in the athlete group showed the largest increase, Otchere says all participants experienced a meaningful boost in tear quantity and tear film stability after the exercise session.

"It can be challenging for people to regularly exercise when the demand is there to work increasingly longer hours in front of screens," Otchere said. "However, our findings show physical activity can be really important for not just our overall well-being, but for our ocular health too." (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Johnson issued the warning during a phone call with Putin. He told the Russian President that he is deeply concerned about the 100,000 soldiers massed at Ukraine's border, reported NHK World.

British officials released a statement saying the leaders agreed that aggravation was in no one's interest.

Johnson also stressed that Ukraine had every right to apply to join the "defensive alliance" of NATO if it wished and that Kyiv should be included in any talks over the standoff with Russia.

He visited Kyiv on Tuesday, warning after talks with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky that Russian forces massed on the border represented a "clear and present danger" to Ukraine, reported Al Jazeera.

Meanwhile, Russian officials released their own statement, saying NATO's response to their concerns has been inadequate.

Putin has been calling for NATO troops to withdraw from eastern Europe and wants guarantees that Ukraine will never be allowed to join the bloc, reported NHK World.

Putin said members of the alliance are hiding behind their open-door policy. He said that contradicts their own commitments to shared security.

Tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine have been building for weeks, with the West accusing Moscow of preparing an imminent invasion of its pro-Western neighbour.

Russia has denied any plans to invade but is demanding that Ukraine never be allowed to join NATO and a series of other security guarantees against the US-led military alliance's expansion in the ex-Soviet bloc. (ANI)
New Delhi: Ahead of Assembly Elections, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday (February 3) urged BJP, Congress and other opposition party workers to vote for AAP in the upcoming Goa polls.

Making an emotional appeal to the workers of rival parties, Kejriwal said that they should not leave their parties but vote for his party for a better future for their kids and people.

The Delhi Chief Minister asked the other party workers to ignore their party for once for a better future.

Workers of BJP, Congress & other parties need not leave their parties & join AAP. But I have a request: vote for broom (AAP symbol) in this Assembly election for the sake of the future of your children & Goa. Please ignore your party this time, ANI quoted Kejriwal as saying.

Kejriwal made the statements while campaigning for his party in Goa for the upcoming polls.

Earlier, Kejriwals party candidates on Wednesday signed a legal affidavit and took a pledge to remain loyal to the party.

The candidates further pledged that they will work honestly if they are elected in the upcoming polls. Goa chief ministerial candidate Amit Palekar administered the oath to all candidates.

AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on the occasion said that all of our candidates are honest but this affidavit is needed to assure voters that these candidates are honest.

"Our candidates will send photocopies of the signed affidavit to every household in their constituency.

By doing this, we are giving a right to voters to file a case of breach of trust against our candidates if they violate the terms of the affidavit," said Kejriwal in Goa.

He further said that everyone is free to investigate candidates` history and you will not find one example of dishonesty.

Kejriwal said, "I believe today is an extremely important day in Goa`s politics. The two major problems in the way Goa have been governed are - One, there is flagrant corruption.

Goa will go to the Assembly polls on February 14. The counting of votes will take place on March 10.

AAP will take part in Goa Assembly Polls for the second time and will be fielding candidates in all 40 seats.

Live TV
PHNOM PENH, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Wednesday urged all sides in Myanmar to promote conducive conditions for a constructive dialogue to seek a peaceful solution to the current political crisis in the country.

"It is of critical importance for all sides to promote a conducive condition for a constructive dialogue among all parties concerned to seek a peaceful solution to the current crisis in the interest of the people of Myanmar and in order to speedily return the situation to normalcy and prevent prolonged suffering to the people of Myanmar," said an ASEAN chairman's statement.

Cambodia is the rotating chair of ASEAN for 2022.

The statement said ASEAN member states remained deeply concerned over the developments in Myanmar, calling for efforts from all parties there to ensure "safe and timely delivery of humanitarian assistance to those most in need."

Meanwhile, it urged the Myanmar authorities to take concrete actions to fully implement the five point consensus reached at the ASEAN leaders' meeting in April last year.

It said Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn is appointed as the special envoy of the ASEAN chair on Myanmar, and called on the Myanmar authorities to facilitate his early visit to Myanmar to meet with all parties concerned.

The statement noted that durable peace and national reconciliation can only be achieved in Myanmar through an inclusive political solution.

ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. 
Washington is willing to discuss promising not to deploy ground-launched missiles or combat forces in Ukraine if Russia agrees to do the same, according to confidential documents that the Spanish newspaper El Pais said were Washington's and NATO's written replies to Russian security demands.

El Pais did not say how it obtained the documents.

"The United States is willing to discuss conditions-based reciprocal transparency measures and reciprocal commitments by both the United States and Russia to refrain from deploying offensive ground-launched missile systems and permanent forces with a combat mission in the territory of Ukraine," the U.S. document said, according to a copy on the El Pais website.

The United States and its NATO allies are also ready to discuss reciprocal measures to avoid dangerous incidents in the air or at sea, and to reassure Moscow that there are no Tomahawk cruise missiles stationed in Romania and Poland, according to the documents published by the paper.

NATO and the Kremlin told Reuters they would not comment.

The positions set out in the two documents, which were officially handed to Moscow on Jan. 26, are consistent with public statements by Washington and its allies in the past, particularly in terms of offering military transparency.

The United States has also long said that NATO's European missile shield in Romania, and a planned site in Poland, will not serve as a future defence against Russian rockets, but to defend against threats from Iran and the wider Middle East.

In its written reply, the United States offered transparency over its Romanian and Polish missile sites if Moscow did the same at two sites in Russia.

In the NATO document, the 30-member alliance said: "the reversal of Russia's military build-up in and around Ukraine will be essential for substantive progress."
I just got back from my third scuba diving live-aboard with 22 people from Russia. The Russians call these safaris, and I much prefer that term for traveling on a boat for a week or two in remote places to scuba dive. Weve gone diving together in the Sea of Cortez (2018), the Galapagos (2021) and now, the Maldives. There is no question that I adore these people, and they have accepted me. That is why I look with horror on the prospect of war in Ukraine, which, like all wars, is unpredictable and has the potential to spill over into even a confrontation with the U.S.

My interest in all-things Russian began in St. Louis Public Schools in third grade  the region has a large Russian immigrant population  and has continued throughout my life. I took a long break from the Russian people when I accepted a job at the National Security Agency, where I worked for most of my career. But in retirement, I went right back to where I left off, only this time, we had social media networks, which made connecting with Russians much easier.

During those long scuba diving trips, I tried to drag some political views out of them, but Russians rarely discuss politics. Most say something along the lines of, well, this is way over my head, and I cant do anything about it, so what is there to discuss? Others may be wary of me, a former spy on a pension, because as most Russians seem to believe, there is no such thing as a former spy.

If war breaks out, it would be particularly painful for me after spending years developing relationships with Russians. When I first made acquaintances with them on social media, I was argumentative and bombastic and quickly lost them as friends, but Ive tempered my America first approach to simply try to understand them better.

My own feeling is that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attack Ukraine. Yes, the Russians took the Crimea, but they had a strategic naval base there, which they could not live without. Controlling the entire country will be much more costly than the ongoing war in the Donbass region of Ukraine. At some point, even Putin has to consider the impact of such an attack on the body politic at home. On the safaris, some told me that they had a mother or father who was Ukrainian. There are deep family ties between the two countries. Some also said that nobody knew about the attack in Crimea until well after it occurred. Today, most know about the situation on the border with Ukraine, making it more likely, they reasoned, that this is a political stunt and not the real thing. In the back of Putins mind, however, he must think about Nikita Khrushchev, whos ill-fated foray into Cuba eventually cost him his job.

But try as I will, I cannot completely understand their positions, though I am comfortable debating our own. Putin wants us to forswear making Ukraine a member of NATO, and to that, I would ask: Why the heck not? Years ago, when talking to Ukrainian friends about the future, I told them that they had to find their own way, that Ukraine was not in the strategic interests of the United States and that we would never confront Russia over Ukraine. That seems to be holding, for now. But I remember how we got dragged into the Serbia/Kosovo war in 1999, and its hard to imagine that we would sit on the sidelines if we start to see brutalities every evening on TV.

Since the end of the Cold War, the 72-year-old curmudgeon, NATO, has sought to justify its being by expanding into former Warsaw-pact territories and promising to take care of them. Only Donald Trump, like him or not, called NATOs mission into question, but in the end, even he backed down on change in NATO as long as member countries paid their bills. We talk in this country about a deep state, but there is also an international deep state, which keeps the war machine going, expands territory and keeps East-West tensions high. You can bet that eventually NATO would extend an invitation to Ukraine. And then what, Belarus and Kazakhstan?

As I write this, I cannot believe how far this problem has gone without a diplomatic solution in sight. How hard is it to say that we will not allow Ukraine to join NATO in exchange for Russia staying out of that countrys affairs? Let me sit down with a few of my dive buddies from Russia and diplomats from each side. Well knock back a few vodkas, eat salo (cured pig fat) and shproti (smoked sardines) on brown bread. Within a few hours, well come to an agreement and put an end to this deadly nonsense.
With Samajwadi Party (SP) fielding Raju Gandhi as their candidate for the Lucknow Cantonment seat, the speculations that the SP would field BJP MP Rita Bahuguna Joshi's son Mayank Joshi from the seat have been put to an end. Soon after the BJP denied the ticket to Mayank and fielded state Law Minister Brajesh Pathak from the seat, there were speculations that SP would field him from the seat. But with SP going ahead with Raju Gandhi, the speculations have been put to rest. As per sources, SP waited till late in the evening for Mayank to make up his mind to join the party after which it gave the ticket to Gandhi. Gandhi will be filing his nomination today. Rita Bahuguna Joshi had fought the 2017 elections and defeated Aparna Yadav, the then SP candidate from Lucknow Cantonment. Earlier, Rita Bahuguna Joshi said she would give up her Lok Sabha membership if her son does not get a ticket from Lucknow Cantt seat. But after he was denied a ticket she said she "respects the decision of the party." Elections for the 403 Assembly constituencies in Uttar Pradesh will be held in seven phases starting February 10. The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held on February 10, 14, 20, 23, 27 and March 3 and 7 in seven phases. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. (ANI)
Cambodia, the incumbent chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, says the Myanmar Juntas Foreign Minister Wunna Maung Lwin will not be invited to attend the 10-nation blocs top diplomatic gathering in Phnom Penh this month.

Since there is little progress in the implementation of the 5-Point Consensus, ASEAN member states find it hard to reach a consensus to invite Myanmar SAC's foreign minister to participate in the Retreat, Cambodian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Chum Sounry told VOA Khmer on Wednesday, using an acronym of the Myanmar juntas official name State Administration Council.

Thus, we have asked Myanmar to send a non-political representative instead, Chum Sounry said.

The gathering, known officially as the ASEAN Foreign Ministers Retreat, is one of the regional groupings most prominent annual meetings. It is scheduled to take place in Phnom Penh on February 16-17.

The decision by Phnom Penh not to invite the juntas foreign minister indicates a reversal by Prime Minister Hun Sens government following his engagement in recent months with Myanmar's coup-making generals  which included a visit to Naypyidaw  and after it had met resistance from fellow ASEAN member states, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Amid disagreement in early January, Cambodia decided to postpone the retreat that originally was set to be held January 18-19 in the northern town of Siem Reap.

Hun Sen said earlier that he wanted to restore the ASEAN-10 instead of the continued ban of the Myanmar junta.

We encourage Myanmar to be presen[t] at the Retreat at a non-political level rather than leaving the seat empty. It is up to Myanmar to decide who that "non-political level" would be, Chum Sounry said.

In subsequent calls with his ASEAN counterparts in January, Hun Sen firstly acknowledged the existence of the National Unity Government  Myanmars government in exile  and started raising the bar for the Myanmar Junta to show progress in implementing the blocs five-point consensus to be able to attend ASEANs political-level meetings.

Chum Sounry also clarified what can be regarded as progress in this context.

When we talk about progress in the implementation of the 5PC, we wish to see more commitment from Myanmar and others to end violence through a ceasefire agreement, to kick-start a dialogue process that involved all parties concerned and to allow access to political detainees, and to enable and facilitate access of humanitarian assistance to those in need, etc., Chum Sounry said.

Cambodian Institute for Cooperation and Peaces research fellow Vann Bunna said the move shows the limits of Cambodias earlier maverick policy to engage Myanmar military regime in the face of opposition from the more influential ASEAN member states.

Cambodia is doing so because it knows that if it continues to push for an inclusion of Myanmar juntas foreign minister it will not be possible to hold any ASEAN foreign ministers meeting, Vann Bunna said.

Vann Bunna said the Cambodian government seems to have decided at this time that the interests in staying with other ASEAN member states outweighed the efforts to build trust and good relations with the Myanmar junta, which he deemed as unreliable, noting the junta violated the ceasefire it promised with Hun Sen during the latters Myanmar trip in early January.

Other main regional actors, including the ASEAN secretariat and Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh, have not immediately responded on Wednesday to VOAs request for comment.

In an interview with VOA Khmer on Wednesday, U.S. Embassy Phnom Penhs political chief Jonathan Turley renewed U.S. calls for Cambodia to hold the Burmese military regime accountable.

"We urge Cambodia as ASEAN chair to continue to press for the implementation of the five-point [consensus] and to ensure that any visit [to Myanmar] by the ASEAN special envoy includes meeting with all partners, Turley said.

It was one year ago this week that the Myanmar military establishment Tatmadaws chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing overruled the reelection of Aung San Suu Kyis National League for Democracy government and launched a coup. Activists have said the post-coup bloodshed and violence has claimed more than 1,500 lives.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya on Thursday exuded confidence that Bharatiya Janata Party will win the Assembly elections even if Samajwadi Party (SP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Congress came together. Maurya is scheduled to file his nomination from Sirathu in the Prayagraj district today. Speaking to ANI, the BJP leader said, "This election is not being fought by Keshav Prasad Maurya but a worker and the people of Sirathu are fighting this election and I am sure the people will give their blessing to me." The SP has fielded BJP ally Anupriya Patel's sister Pallavi Patel against Uttar Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister from the Sirathu assembly constituency. Further speaking on SP's candidate Pallavi Patel, the BJP leader said, "Opponent has the right to field a candidate but people will vote or not and how vote they will get will be clear on March 10. I believe that lotus will bloom even if the SP, BSP and Congress will fight together. (Agar SP, BSP and Congress sath mein mil kar bhee ladenge tab bhee khilega to kamal hee)." He further claimed that BJP will secure more than 300 seats in the upcoming election in the state. The Deputy Chief Minister further took a dig at SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and said that he is a leader of criminals, goons and mafia "Akhilesh Yadav is the 'sardar' (leader) of criminals, goons, mafia, before speaking about BJP, he should think about his own candidates," he added. Maurya will file his nominations at 12:35 pm Sirathu in presence of BJP national president JP Nadda. "BJP national president JP Nadda will address a public rally on February 3 at 12:35 pm in my birthplace of Sirathu," Maurya tweeted on Wednesday. Uttar Pradesh assembly elections will be held in seven phases from February 10 to March 7. The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held on February 10, 14, 20, 23, 27 and March 3 and 7. The counting of votes will be done on March 10. (ANI)
https://sputniknews.com/20220202/aid-groups-warn-15-million-in-horn-of-africa-need-food-aid-after-successive-failed-rainy-seasons-1092700307.html

Aid Groups Warn 15 Million in Horn of Africa Need Food Aid After Successive Failed Rainy Seasons

Aid Groups Warn 15 Million in Horn of Africa Need Food Aid After Successive Failed Rainy Seasons

A severe water shortage in eastern Ethiopia and Somalia has already been blamed for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of cattle, and aid workers are warning... 02.02.2022, Sputnik International

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The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has warned of severe drought in Ethiopias lowland regions of Afar, Oromia, the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples (SNNPR) Region, and the countrys eastern Somali Region. Much of the area hasnt seen sufficient rain for more than a year, causing wells to dry up and creating severe food and water shortages.The impact of the drought is devastating, UNICEF Ethiopia Representative Gianfranco Rotigliano said in a Wednesday news release. Children and their families are struggling to survive due to loss of livelihoods and livestock, and it is projected that more than 6.8 million people will be in need of urgent humanitarian assistance by mid-March 2022. We are also witnessing major displacement out of affected areas.Earlier this month, Ethiopian news outlet Borkena reported that more than 160,000 cattle in the Somali Region had already perished. Livestock is a staple of pastoral society in the region, with the regional cross-border livestock trade supporting tens of millions of people. In neighboring Somalia, livestock exports account for 80% of the countrys total exports, according to the US Agency for International Development.The Horn of Africa typically gets two wet seasons per year: one from March through May and another from October through December. According to UNICEF, the region has seen three consecutive failed rainy seasons, going back to 2020.According to a Tuesday report by the UN World Food Program, international aid had succeeded in pulling all Malagasy out of the worst stage of famine, despite another failed rainy season, but warned that nearly 1.5 million people remain in the second- and third-highest classifications of famine.UNICEF said Tuesday that it has sent $31 million to Ethiopia for food relief, but that at least 10 times that were still required, as more than 2 million people remain vulnerable. In December, Oxfam pointed the finger at climate change for the Horns drought as well.In its own statement on Tuesday, the Somalia NGO Consortium, the coordinator of myriad relief groups that work in Somalia, warned that 7.7 million people in that country needed food relief, but that groups had received just 2% of the funding needed to address that need.Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited the Somali State capital of Jigjiga last week to witness the scale of the crisis, promising to send aid, as well as to invest in longer-term water management projects, such as building dams and scaling up lowland water management schemes.On Wednesday, Mustafe Omer, president of Somali State, tweeted photos of dozens of trucks of animal feed that he said had been sent by Amhara Regional State President Yilikal Kefale.The TPLF ruled all of Ethiopia for 27 years before losing power in 2018 when Abiy, an Oromo, came to power at the head of a movement by Ethiopias other ethnic groups who had tired of decades of TPLF rule that privileged Tigray over other provinces. When the TPLF repudiated Abiys government and attacked Ethiopian forces in November 2020, it triggered a war that drew in neighboring Eritrea, displaced more than 4 million people, and triggered its own food crisis for more than 9.4 million people.The TPLF has claimed the crisis is Abiys creation, but the group has been accused of seizing international food aid and using it as a coercive enlistment tool, and when the group launched another new offensive into Amhara and Afar late last month, it disrupted the plans of a massive WFP aid convoy en route to Tigray that was forced to turn back to Djibouti.

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WASHINGTON  U.S. special operations forces conducted a large-scale counterterrorism raid in northwestern Syria overnight Thursday, in what the Pentagon said was a successful mission. Residents and activists reported multiple deaths  including civilians  from the attack.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said in a brief statement that the mission was a success. There were no U.S. casualties. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Several residents told The Associated Press they saw body parts scattered near the house that was raided in the village of Atmeh, in Syrias rebel-held Idlib province near the border with Turkey. They spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals following the raid, which they say involved helicopters, explosions and machine-gun fire.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said the strike killed nine people, including two children and a woman. Ahmad Rahhal, a citizen journalist who visited the site, reported seeing 12 bodies. Others were reportedly still under the rubble.

The Pentagon provided no details on who was the target of the raid, or if any enemies or civilians on the ground were killed or injured. Idlib is home to several top al-Qaida operatives and other militant groups.

Residents and activists in the area described witnessing a large ground assault, with U.S. forces using loudspeakers asking women and children to leave the area. They described the raid as the biggest operation since the October 2019 killing of Islamic State group leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

There was at least one major explosion. A U.S. official said that one of the helicopters in the raid suffered a mechanical problem and had to be blown up on the ground. The U.S. official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details of the military operation.

'DISTURBING REMINDER': DOJ: Former Kansas teacher charged with plotting US attacks appears in court, ordered detained

Story continues

USA TODAY OPINION: Syrian torture victims told me their stories. Finally, courts are giving them justice.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby speaks during a briefing at the Pentagon in Washington,

The Observatory said troops for the U.S.-led coalition using helicopters landed in the area and attacked a house. It said the force clashed with fighters on the ground. Taher al-Omar, an Idlib-based activist, also said he witnessed clashes between the fighters and the U.S. force.

The military operation got attention on social media, with tweets from the region describing helicopters firing around the building near Atmeh. Flight-tracking data also suggested that multiple drones were circling the city of Sarmada and the village of Salwah, just north of the raids location.

The clandestine operation came as the Islamic State group was appearing to try to stage a comeback after its effort to establish a caliphate failed in 2019, following several years of fighting in Syria and Iraq. In recent weeks and months, the group has launched a series of attacks in the region, including a 10-day assault late last month to seize a prison in northeastern Syria.

A U.S.-backed Kurdish-led force said Monday that the Gweiran prison, also known as al-Sinaa prison, is now fully under its control. The Syrian Democratic Forces said more than 120 of their fighters and prison workers died in the effort to thwart the IS plot. The prison houses at least 3,000 Islamic State group detainees.

The attempted prison break was the biggest military operation by the extremist group since IS was defeated and members scattered to havens in 2019. The U.S.-led coalition carried out airstrikes and deployed American personnel in Bradley Fighting Vehicles to the prison area to help the Kurdish forces.

At a news conference Monday, an SDF senior official Nowruz Ahmad said the prison assault was part of a broader plot that IS had been preparing for a long time, including attacks on other neighborhoods in Hassakeh, Shaddada and areas of Deir el-Zour in eastern Syria and on the al-Hol camp in the south, which houses thousands of families of IS members.

They (IS) wanted to launch a massive attack on the region, and once again to spread their terror and impose darkness on the people of the region and revive the terrorist organization once again, Ahmad said.

The U.S.-led coalition has targeted high-profile militants on several occasions in recent years, aiming to disrupt what U.S. officials say is a secretive cell known as the Khorasan group that is planning external attacks. A U.S. airstrike killed al-Qaidas second in command, former bin Laden aide Abu al-Kheir al-Masri, in Syria earlier this year.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Civilian casualties reported as US forces conduct raid in Syria
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Apple iOS privacy changes will cost Meta (formerly Facebook) a whopping $10 billion in 2022, the company has forecast, accusing Apple of favouring Google over app-based platforms like Facebook with its privacy policies.

In an earnings call with analysts late on Wednesday, Meta CFO David Wehner said that they saw revenue impact with iOS changes in Q4 2021.

"We believe the impact of iOS overall as a headwind on our business in 2022 is on the order of $10 billion, so it's a pretty significant headwind for our business," he informed.

Apple's iOS 14.5 update, released in April 2021, came with an App Tracking Transparency (ATT) feature that has affected digital advertising for tech giants.

The CFO said that Google "faces a different set of restrictions from Apple", suggesting that Apple is favouring Google because of billions of dollars Google will pay Apple in order to remain the default search engine on iOS devices.

"We believe those restrictions from Apple are designed in a way to carve out browsers from the tracking Apple requires for app. So what that means is that search ads could have access to far more third party data, for measurement and optimisation purposes, than app-based ad platforms like ours," Wehner said.

"Given that Apple continues to take billions of dollars a year from Google Search, the incentive clearly is for this policy discrepancy to continue," he added.

Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Meta, said that Q4 was the first holiday season after Apple's iOS changes, which have had an impact on businesses of all sizes -- especially small businesses who rely on digital advertising to grow.

"This will continue to be a factor in 2022. Like others in our industry, we've faced headwinds as a result of Apple's iOS changes," she mentioned.

Apple created two challenges for advertisers, she said.

"One is that the accuracy of our ads targeting decreased, which increased the cost of driving outcomes. The other is that measuring those outcomes became more difficult".
BAGHDAD, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Baghdad Mall, one of the landmarks in the Iraqi capital, is lit up on Wednesday evening in the colors of the Chinese flag to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

Images of both Chinese and Iraqi national flags were shown on the facade of the building, and congratulations to the Chinese people in both Arabic and Chinese languages were also on display.

"Today, we try to convey a message of love, respect, and appreciation to the Chinese people on the occasion of the Spring Festival, the Year of the Tiger, and the Olympic Games," Haider al-Rubaie, head of the Iraqi-Chinese Friendship Association, told Xinhua.

"Since the coronavirus pandemic is spreading in the world and (for us) it is difficult to visit China, we would like to send our feelings and raise the Chinese flag on the largest display screen in Iraq and other advertising screens in Baghdad," al-Rubaie said.

"We are trying to convey the message from the Iraqi people, which carries peace and love, to the Chinese people, and we share their joys on this day," he added. 
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Leading Pakistani businessman Muhammad Mansha claims that backchannels are working between Islamabad and New Delhi that will hopefully yield good results, Dawn news reported.

"If things improve between the two neighbours, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi could visit Pakistan in a month," the chairman of Nishat Group told a gathering of businessmen at the Lahore Chambers of Commerce and Industry on Wednesday.

He advised the two countries to resolve their disputes and start trade to fight poverty in the region.

"If the economy does not improve, the country may face disastrous consequences. Pakistan should improve trade relations with India and take a regional approach to economic development. Europe fought two great wars, but ultimately settled for peace and regional development. There is no permanent enmity," the Dawn news report quoted Mansha as saying Trade relations between PakAistan and India have been suspended since August 2019.

There have been reports of backchannel talks last summer between the two economies of the region brokered by a Gulf state, the Dawn report said.

The businessman emphasised the importance of improving relations with countries in the neighbourhood and said one of the reasons for Europe's development was its softening of borders and promotion of bilateral trade.

He further said that in no other country gas was supplied through pipes and resources wasted on such a large scale.

"The system is a burden on the state and major changes are needed in the structure of the bureaucracy." On the domestic front,Mansha said "progressive, market-oriented policies" were the key to success. Through price control to capital market operations, reducing trade barriers and minimising state influence on the economy, especially through privatisation and austerity, Pakistan can truly achieve rapid growth.

(Sanjeev Sharma can be reached at Sanjeev.s@ians.in)
OMV Petrom posted a net profit of 2.86 billion lei last year, 122% higher than the previous year, according to a release sent to AGERPRES on Thursday.

Sales revenues increased by 32% to 26 billion lei."Our results in 2021 are supported by a strong oil market environment, the excellent use of our assets and the increase in energy demand. However, the result of the exploitation of CCA EBIT excluding special items is below the value recorded in 2019. The market environment with high gas prices does not reflect in our results due to the extremely high level of taxation," said company CEO Christina Verchere.The company's contribution to the state budget stood at a record level of 12.3 billion lei."This increase was also due to natural gas taxation, which tripled compared to 2020. This was due to a significant difference between the reference natural gas price and the achieved price. Consequently, the taxation regime for production of gas in Romania has become even more uncompetitive, significantly above the European average," continued Verchere.This puts pressure on investments in Romania, endangering the supply from domestic natural gas production."Failure to amend the Offshore Law will delay the final decision to invest in Neptun Deep, by 2023. For Romania to benefit from its natural gas resources, the authorities need to intervene urgently," said the OMV Petrom chief.
Many culinary traditions have some sort of dish that is cooked on skewers over an open fire, from Mediterranean kebabs to Mexican al pastor.

The Boston Deli, 6231 E. 61st St., will be offering its variation on the Italian dish known as spiedini for its Chefs Special dinner for the month of February.

The menu includes chicken spiedini, grilled on the restaurants signature Hasty Bake charcoal ovens, and served over linguini dressed with basil pesto, Parmigiana Reggiano cheese, toasted pine nuts and a lemon butter sauce.

Accompanying this will be a salad of pears, roasted beets and arugula topped with candied pecans, honey-infused goats cheese, pickled red onions and a mimosa vinaigrette. Dessert is that classic Italian treat, tiramisu.

The Chefs Special is available from 5-8 p.m. each Thursday in February. Cost is $23 per person, and reservations are recommended. 918-492-4745, thebostondeli.com

Polo Grill Wine Dinners

The Polo Grill, 2038 Utica Square, will host a series of special dinners each Sunday in February that will benefit Oasis Fresh Market, the north Tulsa grocery store that is working to address food insecurity in that region.

The evenings will pair wines and whiskeys from Black-owned wineries and distillers, with recipes taken from Cleoras Kitchen: The Memoir of a Cook and Eight Decades of Great American Food, a collection of recipes and stories by Cleora Butler, a private chef and caterer in Tulsa for more than 60 years; from Cobbler Mom, a new restaurant in the Greenwood District, and the Polo Grills own menu.

The featured wineries and distilleries include Greenwood Rye Whiskey, Brown Estate, Maison Noir, Wade Cellars, Bodkin Wines, McBride Sisters and Sun Goddess.

The featured wines will also be available by the glass and by the bottle throughout February at the Polo Grill. Reservations are recommended. 918-744-4280, pologrill.com.
A Tulsa man who admitted to fatally shooting a family friend during a 2020 domestic dispute was sentenced to prison Wednesday.

U.S. District Judge Gregory Frizzell sentenced Jonhron Kayion Starks, 27, to serve five years and three months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

Starks pleaded guilty Oct. 6 to voluntary manslaughter in Indian Country in connection with the Sept. 19, 2020, killing of DreLeigha Everidge-Taylor, 25.

Everidge-Taylor died after being shot once in the chest about 4:20 a.m. at Starks apartment at the Bradford Apartments, 547 E. 32nd St. North.

Before being shot, Everidge-Taylor had followed her husband as the pair argued from their apartment to Starks apartment in the same complex, investigators said.

While outside Starks residence, Everidge-Taylor banged on the door and window, breaking the window, and began arguing with him as well, according to investigators. Police said he armed himself with a handgun.

At some point, the confrontation became physical, with witnesses saying Starks pointed the gun at the back of Everidge-Taylors head and yelled: Ill kill you! Get away from my door! Everidge-Taylor yelled, He hit me! and Shoot me! Shoot me! during the fight.

After the gunshot, witnesses reported that Starks said, I cant believe I shot my cousin. Im sorry, DD (the victims nickname), before fleeing.

The U.S. Attorneys Office said the two werent related but Starks considered her like his cousin.

State prosecutors charged Starks with second-degree murder, but that charge was dismissed April 14 after a judge determined that the state of Oklahoma did not have jurisdiction to try Starks under the U.S. Supreme Courts McGirt ruling.

Anticipating the dismissal of the state charge, a federal grand jury had indicted Starks on March 25 on one count of second-degree murder in Indian Country.

The victim was a member of the Muscogee Nation, and the death occurred within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation reservation.

However, the U.S. Attorneys Office charged Starks on Sept. 2 with one count of voluntary manslaughter in Indian Country. Prosecutors dismissed the original indictment at Starks sentencing hearing.

Starks faced up to 15 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000.

U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson called the killing a tragic act of violence.

Starks escalated an already heated altercation by bringing, pointing and discharging a firearm, killing Everidge-Taylor, Johnson said.

At his sentencing hearing, Starks apologized to the victims sister, who was in the courtroom, and his defense attorney pointed out that instead of going to trial, the defendant was remorseful and felt that he should take responsibility for the crime, the U.S. Attorneys Office said in a press release.

The attorney also noted that the victims and defendants families were long-time friends.

In a victim impact statement, Everidge-Taylors sister told Starks that she and her mother forgave the defendant and still loved him. She urged him to be a better person and make better decisions as he moved forward, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.
Legislation has been introduced to eliminate the requirement that the states top water official be a licensed professional engineer to allow appointment of non-engineers to the position. We are concerned that eliminating this requirement may lead to appointment of unqualified individuals and politicize a position that should transcend politics.

There have been numerous attempts over the years to open the position of the states top water manager to anyone, regardless of qualifications, but these attempts have been unsuccessful in recognition that the qualifications and ethics of a professional engineer are critical to the equitable, effective and efficient administration of our most precious resource.

We consider three reasons that the New Mexico Water Code requires the position be filled by a licensed engineer; there are many others.

First, the responsibilities of the state engineer include many technical components in areas such as hydrology and hydraulics, database management and mapping, and oversight of dam safety and stormwater management. For example, at its core, the lawsuit between Texas and New Mexico/Colorado that is currently before the U.S. Supreme Court is based on disagreement over technical and accounting issues regarding the hydrology of the lower Rio Grande. While there are many accomplished water professionals practicing in New Mexico, requiring the office be filled by an engineer assures competence in these technical areas.

Second, opinion polling has shown that engineering is among the most highly trusted and respected professions, second only to the medical professions. Administration of water in the Southwest is increasingly contentious. Structured negotiation and decision-making is a far better strategy for addressing water disputes than through expensive, lengthy, and uncertain legal proceedings. However, negotiations require that trust and respect be accorded to all participants. The public respect earned by engineers is important to collaborative resolution of water disputes.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, engineers have achieved their status through centuries of commitment to public service. The first canon of the National Society of Professional Engineers code of ethics is that engineers shall hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public. We know of no other profession that requires this commitment. Ethics codes for professions such as lawyers, doctors, or teachers state that their first responsibility is to the client, patient, or student and make no mention of responsibility to the public.

Using a code of ethics to argue that a professional engineer be the top water manager seems like an academic justification. But throughout their career licensed engineers must participate in continuing professional development which includes training in ethical practice. The consequences of violating the code of ethics can lead to sanctions up to and including loss of ones license. The publics trust in the engineering profession reflects its commitment to public service rather than to special interests.

There have been only 17 state engineers since 1907, three of whom were interim and served for one year or less. This stability is critical to maintaining fair and consistent water management in times of drought and in times of plenty. We believe that the analytical nature of the engineering profession combined with its strong commitment to public service make it among the professions least influenced by pressure from political and special interests. Therefore, the position of the top water manager in the state should continue to be held by a licensed professional engineer.
NILES  A man charged last year in a 1992 cold case murder in Niles died last week while awaiting trial.

Richard J. Sisto, 73, was pronounced dead Jan. 26 at Stroger Hospital while in Cook County Sheriff's Police Department custody, a statement from the department said.

Sisto had been in sheriff's police custody since Nov. 24 when he was extradited from Texas on charges of first degree murder. He had spent most of his time in Stroger Hospital receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness, according to the sheriff's department.

Autopsy results were pending, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office.

Sisto, who appeared in a police booking photo last year using oxygen for breathing assistance, was charged with murder by Niles police in the November 1992 strangulation death of Helen Cardwell, 35, in her room at the Leaning Tower YMCA residential building.

Police said DNA from the crime scene, which was entered into a nationwide database in 2021, matched Sisto, who had previously been convicted of sexual assault in Texas.

A Cook County grand jury indicted Sisto on murder charges in December, according to court records. An arraignment was scheduled for Dec. 16, but court records did not indicate whether a plea was entered.

Sisto had a court appearance scheduled for Jan. 27, the day after he died, records showed.

Though the case will now never go to trial, Niles Mayor George Alpogianis said this week that he believed the evidence against Sisto was strong.

"I'm very proud of the Niles police for cracking the cold case and bringing this man to the beginnings of justice," Alpogianis said. "Also important is the fact that (Helen Cardwell's) family was able to receive some closure and truly know what happened."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Helen Cardwell and her family," Niles Deputy Police Chief Nick Zakula said in an emailed statement.

Cardwell, a native of West Virginia who had previously lived in New Jersey, was found strangled to death in her sixth-floor room inside the residential portion of the Leaning Tower YMCA, 6300 W. Touhy Ave., on Nov. 8, 1992, police said. Cardwell's sister and brother-in-law discovered her body during a weekly visit, Det. Sgt. Mike Boba of the Niles Police Department said during a press conference last year.

According to Niles police reports obtained by Pioneer Press/Chicago Tribune, Cardwell's hands had been bound with a pink shirt and a red sweater was found tied around her mouth. These were among the items that were submitted for DNA testing, the report indicated.

Cardwell had been living at the Leaning Tower after undergoing treatment at a Park Ridge rehabilitation center for a stroke she suffered the previous year, family members told police.

According to police reports, in 1992 Sisto worked at the Jewel store in Village Crossing, located just blocks from the Leaning Tower YMCA, and lived in a nearby Chicago neighborhood. He had been released in April of that year from a Texas prison where he had served a sentence for aggravated sexual assault, according to Texas Department of Public Safety criminal records.

While in prison, Sisto was accused of raping a female prison guard in 1984, the Chicago Tribune reported on Aug. 28, 2005.

At the time that Niles police announced murder charges against Sisto in October 2021, he was in police custody in Harris County Texas on a parole violation warrant, police said.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/armenian-parliament-to-pick-next-president-in-march-prime-minister-says-1092709874.html

Armenian Parliament to Pick Next President in March, Prime Minister Says

Armenian Parliament to Pick Next President in March, Prime Minister Says

YEREVAN (Sputnik) - The Armenian parliament to elect the next president in March, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Thursday. 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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"I hope that before the election in March, you will fully fulfill the duties of the minister of high-tech industry and during this period we will work effectively," Pashinyan, addressing the pro-government presidential candidate, Minister of High-Tech Industry Vahagn Khachaturyan, at a government meeting.The official added that Khachaturyan's candidacy was put forward by 65 lawmakers, which makes him presidential hopeful.Parliament President Alen Simonyan is currently serving as the acting president of the country. His predecessor, Armen Sarkissian announced his resignation from the post last month after four years in office due to inability to influence policy decisions in the country.

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Recently the Madhes region has been bursting out in sudden chanting of slogans, various processions, vandalism and arson. And, CK Raut has been at the centre of the movement.

On January 26 at 10 am, about 100 cadres of the Raut-led Janamat Party marched to Tirhutiya Gachhi in Janakpurdham carrying bamboo sticks, chanting slogans. They turned to where the National Assembly election was being held. So, the police intervened, but they refused.

The police then fired tear gas at them and dispersed the crowd. Less than half an hour later, they gathered again and marched towards the same destination, causing another clash. The cadres vandalised many vehicles and hurt MP Ashok Yadav and Harion municipality mayor Ganesh Prasad Prasai. On the same day, the activists attacked Satish Sah, the medical superintendent of Jaleshwar Hospital, and vandalised his vehicle.

CK Rauts party cadres have been agitating in the Madhes area for the last one month stating it was for the rights of farmers. Earlier too, they staged similar protests and declared a bandh when there was a delay in the distribution of wheat seeds at a local health post.

The movements started after the police filed a case against four persons and arrested a farmer on the charge of stealing wheat seeds in the second week of December 2021. Other demands included the supply of fertilisers and compensation for crops damaged by rain.

Whereas in appearance, CK Raut has been raising demands for farmers, in essence, it is his fresh bids to find his space in the Madhes politics. As the party demonstrations have gone violent sporadically, new conflicts are ensuing in southern Nepal.

In Madhes, beyond Madhes

A tussle in Janakpur.

CK Raut who had been living in the US returned to Nepal in 2011. Upon returning, he formed the Alliance for Independent Madhes (AIM) and started a peaceful struggle. But, he was arrested several times. In March 2019, Raut dissolved the party by signing an 11-point agreement with the then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli-led government.

Then in March 2021, he formed a new Janamat Party. The new, dormant party started becoming active in October 2021. It has been seen that the party has been searching for popular issues and carrying out anarchic activities including public humiliation of Janakpurdhams Drinking Water and Sewerage Office Acting Chief Rajesh Kushwaha on October 19 last year.

Nevertheless, it is surprising that there were no Madhes-centric issues at the centre of his movement before. Now, issues like representation on the basis of population, providing citizenship to the deprived, and implementation of proportional inclusive policies are frequently raised by Madhesi leaders including Upendra Yadav, Mahantha Thakur and Rajendra Mahato.

Lately, the issues have been raised by Madhesi leaders in Kathmandu. Even after 100 lives were lost and multiple table discussions, the two sides have not been able to agree on these issues. But, CK Raut, eying political advantages, has shown himself different from them.

After the country came to federalism, some issues raised by Madhes-centric parties have been addressed and some issues still remain not addressed. Though they demanded the entire Madhes be declared as one state, they only got eight districts as one province. The citizenship problem is still unresolved and the parties are still demanding constitution amendments.

Hence, senior politicians like Khushi Lal Mandal say CK Rauts party is not fighting for the right cause. According to Ajay Yadav, a professor at Ramswarup Ramsagar Multiple Campus, the party needs to change its modus operandi such as humiliating the leaders with soot on their faces. Violent rebellion is temporary, it does not last long. We have all seen it.

Instead of establishing good schools, colleges and hospitals, militarisation has spread in the entire Madhes. The issues of farmers that have been raised today are valid, but the forums Raut has been advocating have been militarised, either by the army or armed police.

Right issues, wrong modus operandi

CK Raut

As of late, most of the people in Madhes have said that the issue of farmers raised by CK Rauts Janamat Party was correct. However, there are many dissatisfied with the movement Raut has started as it is full of road blockades, vandalism and arson of public vehicles. Such methods have been overshadowing the cause, they add.

For a person claiming to be on the path of Gandhi and Buddha, the violent acts and threatening of another persons freedom are incompatible. Analyst Chandra Kishor questions the politics Raut has been practising.

Meanwhile, Chandra Kishor is of the opinion that in the current political scenario, the leftist, extremist, and dominant parties are benefiting from CK Rauts actions rather than empowering the marginalised people of Madhes.

He says Raut has never associated himself or his movements with the core issues of the Madhes; hence, his participation in the Madhes movement has been negligible too. He further says that Rauts new politics, after his agreement with the Oli government, has been under scrutiny.

Khusi Lal Mandal Mandal is also in the same line of thought. Farmers are still not getting seeds and fertilisers. They are still oppressed and discriminated against. The movement is not changing anything. He further says Rauts movement will not have a future if it is not peaceful.

There are some who are viewing what Rauts party is doing in Madhes as natural. Any political party seeks space when it emerges and Kishor says Raut is also doing the same with new agenda and new ways for space.

But, many find it strange that CK Rauts Janamat Party has never said anything about the states discriminatory behaviour in Madhes, especially the CPN-UMLs conservative behaviour. It is only attacking Madhes-centric parties active in the region and staying mum while Oli dissolved the parliament twice. Mandal also thinks Raut is working under CPN-UML.

Are other forces right then?

After CK Raut started the movement, his conflict with the Janata Samajbadi Party Nepal also surfaced. Even now, the cadres of these two parties are fighting with each other not just physically, but also on social media. Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Renu Yadav has even threatened to kill CK Raut like in the Gaur massacre.

However many say the JSPN activities, including Renu Yadavs threat, are not smart. Everyone should always think before speaking, even more so when they are holding some positions, says Mandal.

All the activities should be redirected towards solving the problems of farmers with dialogues before it is too late. The government and other parties should also focus on problem-solving, not protest against the issues raised. They should look at what they are doing wrong and make corrections, Kishor says.
India's largest IT firm Tata Consultancy Services on Thursday said it will expand operations in New Jersey by hiring about 1,000 additional employees by 2023 to meet the growing needs of customers to digitally transform their businesses.

To support a pipeline of local IT talent for the state, will also grow the reach of its STEM and computer science education programmes in New Jersey by 25 per cent, expanding teacher training and student programmes, the company said in a statement.

The term STEM refers to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

" to expand STEM education programs in New Jersey and add 1,000 new employees by 2023," the company statement said.

TCS' Edison Business Center, one of 30 company facilities in the US, serves more than 100 customers in New Jersey.

The company has more than 3,700 employees in the state, who provide IT and consulting services across industries, leveraging technologies -- such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and enterprise software.

"We are thrilled to have Tata Consultancy Services expand its footprint in New Jersey and invest in our future workforce by expanding its STEM education programs, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said.

Commenting on the expansion drive, Surya Kant, Chairman of North America, TCS, noted that New Jersey is an important technology hub for TCS, and added "we are excited to be a part of its growing reputation as a centre of innovation".

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has expressed deep concern about Russia's hostile activity on the Ukrainian border, in a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

That's according to the BBC, Ukrinform reports.

Johnson told Putin any further incursion by troops on the border would be "a tragic miscalculation" by Russia. He also emphasized the need to respect Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Both leaders agreed "that aggravation was in no-one's interest," a Downing Street spokesperson said.

According to the BBC, the Kremlin said, in turn, the two leaders had "a detailed exchange" in which Putin reiterated NATO's "unwillingness" to address Russia's concerns.

The pair cited issues such as climate change, the situation in Afghanistan and the Iran nuclear deal where Russia and the UK benefitted from open channels of communication.

They agreed to apply this "spirit of dialogue" to the current situation in Ukraine "in order to find a peaceful resolution."

Johnson visited Kyiv on February 1. Following his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, both leaders issued a joint statement.

Photo: Andrew Parsons / No. 10 Downing Street

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A bystander watches as Winston-Salem firefighters battle a structure fire at Weaver Fertilizer Co. in Winston-Salem, N.C., on Jan. 31, 2022. (Allison Lee Isley/The Winston-Salem Journal via AP)

Thousands Evacuated as Fears Grow Blazing Fertilizer Plant May Explode

By Mark Price

From The Charlotte Observer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.The city of Winston-Salem is working to evacuate 6,500 people as fears grow a smoldering fertilizer plant might explode near thousands of homes.

Fire trucks patrolled the mandatory evacuation area early Tuesday, blowing their horns and loudspeakers blasting a warning for people to evacuate as quickly as possible.

The mass exodus is due to a potentially explosive fire at the Weaver Fertilizer Co. in north Winston-Salem.

Just under 2,500 homes are within a mile of the plant, which stores tons of explosive materials as part of its products, the city said in a tweet.

Residents being are told to plan on being out of their homes for at least 48 hours, and roadblocks have been established around the area. A reverse 911 call went out at 6 a.m. Tuesday, to reach those who hadnt yet left their homes.

The Education Building at the communitys fairgrounds has been opened as an emergency shelter, officials said.

Dont wait for something to happen. Something has happened. Now is the time to get out, Winston-Salem Fire Chief Trey Mayo wrote in a tweet just after midnight.

City officials are also warning people in the city as a whole to avoid strenuous activities outdoors due to the toxic air. People with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and respiratory illnesses were advised to stay indoors.

The smoke plumewhich smells like spent fireworkswas expected to drift southwest Tuesday, to downtown Winston-Salem and Wake Forest University.

Air quality will be poor, officials said in a Facebook post.

The Winston Weaver Co. fertilizer plant in Winston-Salem, N.C., continues to burn on Feb. 2, 2022. (Walt Unks/The Winston-Salem Journal via AP)

Weaver Fertilizer released a recorded statement Tuesday, reporting there have been no injuries or loss of life to any employees, first responders or citizens. Plant officials also pledged to participate fully in the investigation into the cause of the fire.

The plant is known to include large quantities of volatile ammonium nitrate in its products, which prompted fire crews to pull back after 90 minutes, officials said on Facebook. One unmanned ladder truck has been hooked to a fire hydrant at the site, and it continues to spray water on a rail car that could potentially explode.

Emergency responders will not likely return to the plant site until late Wednesday, officials said at a news conference.

Investigators dont know what caused the fire, but residents of the area reported hearing two tremendous booms.

Firefighters were called to the site about 6:45 p.m. Monday after someone reported a fire at the loading dock. They arrived to find heavy fire and involvement in the building, Mayo said in a video posted to Facebook.

Subsequently the entire building has become consumed by fire and has collapsed in, he said.

The risk that is posed by this facility is, it stores ammonium nitrate  There is somewhere between 300 and 600 tons of ammonium nitrate in this facility.  At about 450 degrees, ammonium nitrate becomes pretty unstable.  It can explode. (Fire officials later clarified those totals to report 500 tons of ammonium nitrate was inside the building and 100 tons was in a rail car outside the building.)

Such an explosion happened in 2013, he said, when chemicals at a Texas fertilizer plant ignited, killing 15 and destroying 120 homes, according to a report in the Fort Worth Star Telegram.

That explosion involved 240 tons of ammonium nitrate, Mayo said.

Winston-Salem Communications Director Ed McNeal warned the potential for an explosion is not hyperbole.

A drone flying over the flaming building has already confirmed small explosions have happened at the site, he said.

Wake Forest University announced it was canceling classes Tuesday and is opening up three campus sites to shelter students who are evacuated from their housing due to the fire.

The evacuation area does not include on-campus housing, with the exception of Deacon Place, which is within the one-mile evacuation radius, the university said.

The one-mile evacuation area is considered a worst case scenario of what would be impacted should an explosion occur, officials said.

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The governments of Afghanistan and Qatar have reached an agreement to begin direct flights between Kabul and Doha, officials said.

Based on a mutual agreement, the Taliban's Ministry of Transportation and Civil Aviation said that "Afghan and Qatari airlines will be conducting flights to Doha-Kabul each week", reports TOLO News.

"The Islamic Emirate and Qatar made an agreement to start flights between Kabul-Doha. The Afghan airlines will conduct flights to Doha, and Qatari airlines will fly to Kabul," Ministry spokesman Imamuddin Ahmadi said on Wednesday.

According to experts, the start of flights between Kabul and Doha will boost Afghanistan's aviation industry.

"The start of flights from Qatar to Afghanistan and from Afghanistan to Qatar is a major step for Afghanistan aviation," Sayed Masoud, an economist, told TOLO News.

Mohammad Qassim Wafayizada, the former head of the Afghanistan Civil Aviation Authority (ACAA), said that the flights would help reduce the price of tickets and improve the aviation serviced in the country.

"It can be helpful as Afghanistan relies on its two main transit hubs like Turkey and the UAE for flights. Qatar Airways is a famous airline which is permitted to fly to 173 destinies," he added.

According to Wafayizada, Kabul and Doha signed an agreement on bilateral air aviation cooperation in 2005, but due to political issues the direct flights between the two countries did not happen.
After announcing its imminent Park Hills closure, Premier Glass USA, formerly known as Piramal Glass, plans to hold information sessions this month for the approximately 240 employees who learned they would be laid off at the end of March.

Premier Glass' Director of Human Resources Scott Winder said the company would host two information sessions from 3:30-8 p.m. on Feb. 17. He said they had initially planned to hold the sessions at Mineral Area College but have not yet determined a location for the event.

Winder said the sessions would be comprehensive and provide as much information as possible.

"We're going to have representatives there from employment security and hopefully [Mineral Area College] because there will be federal benefits for training and education," Winder explained. "There will be a person there from the AFL-CIO (American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations) to discuss benefits with the union folks as well."

Winder further explained that the sessions would be kept casual, with employees able to walk in on their own and talk to different people at different times rather than a large meeting with presentations.

Around the second week of March, Winder said the company plans to hold a job fair for their employees with the exact date, time, and location still to be determined. He said the company would invite local employers to the job fair and other glass industry employers who may want to recruit new personnel.

The company made the decision to close its local glass production site after determining that the furnaces at the plant had reached the end of their useful life and would require rebuilding completely. The company leadership opted not to invest in rebuilding the furnaces, leading to the factory's closure.

The facility began operation as Flat River Glass in the 1970s and has been a major Park Hills employer since that time. Some of the longest-tenured workers have been at the plant since around the time it opened. The average wage of the factory personnel is $18 per hour, sources said.

Winder noted that all employees staying until March 31 are getting a severance package that includes benefits. He said a few employees would be kept on hand after March to fulfill the remaining order obligations.

"We'll have some product that still needs to be distributed," Winder said. "So we will keep a few folks in the warehouse end of [the facility], and possibly a few for some re-pack and re-sort. We won't know that until sometime around the beginning of March probably."

The news of the plant shutting down came as a shock to some. In contrast, others have voiced speculation that the closure was coming since the last significant round of layoffs in July 2020, impacting both unionized and salaried jobs.

At the time, Sanjay Tiwari, CEO of Piramal Glass USA, explained that the reason for the employee layoffs in 2020 was the pandemic's economic effect.

"Over the past few years, we have invested in upgrading the facilities and in additional warehousing," Tiwari said in a 2020 statement to the Daily Journal. "The current economic environment, coupled with the heightened uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a significant reduction in customer demand resulting in a substantial pileup of finished goods inventory.

"Under such trying circumstances, the company is forced to cut back on the manufacture of certain products, realignment of the business functions, and downsizing teams to optimal levels," the CEO explained in 2020.

The plant's closure marks the end of a decades-long era in Park Hills' Industrial Park area. Winder said everyone at the site, including himself, would be laid off, and there would be no preferential treatment related to job placement assistance.

The HR director said the atmosphere has been somber as many good people prepare to move on.

"There's a lot of good folks here," he said. "We want to thank all present and past employees, the city of Park Hills, and the community in general for supporting us all these years."
Prem Mathur, born in 1910 broke several norms for women at the time, including being the first woman to work as a commercial pilot in the Indian aviation sector. The idea of a woman being allowed to fly commercially was controversial at the time, but when Deccan Airlines hired her at the age of 38 as a co-pilot, she became the first Indian woman to do so.

Mathur began her flying lessons in 1947 at the newly-founded Allahabad Flying Club after completing her college degree. As a result of her hard work and dedication, she quickly obtained her pilot license, making it possible for her to fly commercially.

After getting her pilot license, she participated and won the National Air Race held in Kolkata against all odds. Being the only female competitor in the race, she joined despite being discouraged to do so. Even though she had just a few hundred hours of flight experience, she stunned the nation by winning the race despite more experienced competitors.

Also read: THIS Chinese Supersonic aircraft is the world's fastest plane, can do Beijing to New York in an hour!

Despite her extensive achievements, airlines kept rejecting her application due to her gender. In the end, Deccan Airways accepted Mathur's application, and she was hired as a co-pilot on an unpaid basis for six months. Later, she was denied promotion to Captain by the airline, citing that passengers and crew would be uncomfortable with a female pilot.

Due to the treatment, she received at Deccan Airways, she left the airline and became a private pilot for businessman G.D Birla. In 1953, Prem Mathur joined Indian Airlines as a captain, becoming the first Indian woman to hold this rank. For the rest of her career, Prem Mathur worked for Indian Airlines and retired in 1984. She passed away in 1992.

Over the course of her 30 years in the skies, Prem Mathur inspired a generation of women pilots in India, which resulted in the highest proportion of female pilots in the world.

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TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Carbon Streaming Corporation (NEO: NETZ) (OTCQB: OFSTF) (FSE: M2Q) (Carbon Streaming or the Company) will release its interim financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2021, before markets open on Monday February 14, 2022.

A conference call for investors and analysts providing an overview of the Companys interim financial results will be held on Tuesday February 15, 2022, starting at 11:00 a.m. (EST).

Date: Tuesday February 15, 2022

Time: 11:00 a.m. (EST)

Registration Link: http://www.directeventreg.com/registration/event/5636805

Upon registering, participants will be provided detailed call-in instructions. A reminder will also be sent to registered participants via email. Following the conference call, an audio replay of the call will be available on the Company website until 11:59 p.m. (EST) March 1, 2022.

About Carbon Streaming

Carbon Streaming is a unique ESG principled company offering investors exposure to carbon credits, a key instrument used by both governments and corporations to achieve their carbon neutral and net-zero climate goals. Our business model is focused on acquiring, managing and growing a high-quality and diversified portfolio of investments in projects and/or companies that generate or are actively involved, directly or indirectly, with voluntary and/or compliance carbon credits.

The Company invests capital through carbon credit streaming arrangements with project developers and owners to accelerate the creation of carbon offset projects by bringing capital to projects that might not otherwise be developed. Many of these projects will have significant social and economic co-benefits in addition to their carbon reduction or removal potential.

To receive corporate updates via e-mail as soon as they are published, please subscribe here.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220201005463/en/

Justin Cochrane, Chief Executive Officer

647.846.7765

[email protected]

www.carbonstreaming.com

Source: Carbon Streaming Corporation
The Indian teen who was allegedly abducted by the Chinese army from Arunachal Pradesh, confirmed his fathers allegations that he was tied up, kicked, and given electric shocks while in Chinese custody.

Miram Taron, 17, was allegedly abducted by the Chinese army on January 18 from the Lungta Jor area near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) when he went on a hunting trip with his friend Johny Yaying. Yaying managed to escape from the scene and report the matter to the authorities.

In an interview with NDTV, Taron said, I knew nothing. I had no idea if they were taking me back to Indian territory or if Indians were doing something similar. I thought they would take me to their city and kill me.

Also Read | Abducted Arunachal teen kicked, given electric shock in Chinese custody, alleges father

Sharing his horrifying experience, he said that he was terrified and was shivering.  I was terrified but wasn't even able to weep out of fear. They said some things and kicked me, then kicked me again two to three times. They gave me electric shocks twice, he added.

"Johnny (his friend) threatened them with the gun and escaped but I got cornered. They then tied me up, blindfolded me and took me away. They took me to a camp, it took around 15 minutes to reach there. They tied me up to a wooden post," he said.

The Chinese army handed over the 17-year-old to the Indian Army on January 27 at the Wacha-Damai interaction point at Kibithu in Anjaw district, where he underwent quarantine and completed legal formalities.

A few days ago, Tarons father had said that his son was mentally exhausted as the whole incident scared him.

He was kept blindfolded most of the time and his hands were tied during captivity. They untied him only when it was time to eat or relieve himself. But, they provided him with adequate food," Opang Taron had said.

(With agency inputs)

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SPRINGFIELD  Colleges should admit the most qualified applicant.

Thats the way many of us were taught life is supposed to work. But we know it often doesnt.

The U.S. Supreme Court is taking up the issue of university admissions in its upcoming term. It will look at the admission formulas used by Harvard University and the University of North Carolina that give extra help to Black and Hispanic applicants who apply.

Some Asian and white applicants were turned away from these universities while Black and Hispanic candidates with lower test scores were admitted. And they say it isnt fair. But it also is unfair that many African American and Hispanic kids reside in neighborhoods with underperforming schools that fail to adequately prepare them.

There are strong arguments on both sides but something that is rarely discussed is a different set of preferences that are inherently wrong  but legal. Im talking about "development admits," the children of wealthy donors.

Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Golden won a Pulitzer Prize looking at this phenomenon and went on to write the 2006 book, "The Price of Admission." Its one of my favorite works of investigative journalism.

I first became aware of the issue when I read a Wall Street Journal story in 2003 about a prominent family with roots deep in Illinois: the Bunns.

Here is the first few paragraphs of the story:

"DURHAM, N.C.  Despite her boarding-school education and a personal tutor, Maude Bunn's SAT scores weren't high enough for a typical student to earn admission to Duke University.

But Ms. Bunn had something else going for her  coffeemakers. Her Bunn forebears built a fortune on them and, with Duke hoping to woo her wealthy parents as donors, she was admitted.

Afterward, her parents promptly became co-chairmen of a Duke fund-raising effort aimed at other Duke parents. My child was given a gift, she got in, and now I'm giving back, says Maude's mother, Cissy Bunn, who declines to say how much the (Lake Forrest) family has contributed to the university."

Later in the story, Cissy Bunn acknowledges her daughter didn't fit the academic profile of a Duke student saying, "She's bright, she had good grades, but she doesn't meet the superstar status."

She then added, "Did my normal child take the place of somebody who could really make a difference in the world? Sure, yes, to an extent. But there are so many things you can lose sleep over. I'm happy for me and my child."

When I first read that quote, I was outraged. It had never occurred to me that rich people received preferential treatment when applying to colleges.

The story made me think of Danny, my roommate my junior year at Iowa State University. Danny was a bright, motivated student who dreamed of being an aerospace engineer. But he graduated from a failing high school in a poorer Chicago neighborhood.

My roommate, who happened to be African American, had many of the precursors associated with academic success: a loving, stable two-parent family that valued hard-work.

Perhaps the biggest drawback was the high school he attended. The institution didnt adequately prepare him for college. For example, it didnt offer the advanced math classes necessary for a budding engineering student to succeed.

While his college peers were taking calculus, he was enrolled in remedial math.

In many ways, the future academic performance of college students isnt determined just by effort or intellect but by their home zip code. Danny lasted a year on campus and never returned.

Thats why I have long favored giving parents vouchers that they can use at either public, charter or private schools. It would give academic choices to families otherwise trapped.

The fact that youngsters in predominantly Black or Hispanic neighborhoods often are forced to attend schools that perform far below the national average is a form of systemic racism.

Another form of racism is interpersonal. For example, in her book "Becoming," Michelle Obama writes about the mother of one of her white roommates being so appalled that her daughter was assigned a Black roommate that she hectored university administrators until her daughter was moved to a different room.

Along those lines, I remember that my college roommate Danny and I were proud uncles. We both had pictures of our young nieces framed above our desks. My niece was about 3 and his was 1.

I cant count the number of times, a white person came into our room and saw the picture above his desk and said, "Oh my God, hes got a kid." Never once did anyone look at my desk and say, "Is that your daughter, Scott?"

A recent New Yorker article noted that Harvard has more students from families in the top 1% of wealth than in the bottom 60%. And yet this is the university fighting all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court for greater "diversity."

How about economic diversity? Why not admit more kids from the middle and working classes and fewer from ultra-wealthy families? Strange, I havent heard any groundswell among college administrators to do that.

To be honest, I dont have a ready opinion on how the Supreme Court should finesse the issue of racial preferences this year. Its a terribly divisive issue.

But something most Americans can agree upon is that a group not needing extra help getting into college is the children of the wealthiest 1%. It makes little sense to cut a break to someone because of the size of their parents pocketbooks.
Scientists have developed a new handheld breathalyser test that can non-invasively and accurately diagnose COVID-19, even in asymptomatic individuals, in less than five minutes.

The test, described in the journal ACS Nano, could allow rapid screening of people attending large gatherings, such as conferences and weddings.

Currently, the gold standard for COVID-19 testing is a technique called reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

However, researchers from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, noted that RT-PCR is slow, requires an uncomfortable nasopharyngeal swab for sample collection and must be performed in a lab.

The rapid antigen test (RAT) is much quicker but has a higher rate of false negatives and positives, they said.

The team wanted to develop a quick, convenient and accurate breathalyser test that would be suitable for on-site screening of large numbers of people.

The researchers designed a handheld breathalyser that contains a chip with three surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensors attached to silver nanocubes.

When a person exhales into the device for 10 seconds, compounds in their breath chemically interact with the sensors.

The researchers then load the breathalyser into a portable Raman spectrometer that characterises the bound compounds based on changes to the molecular vibrations of the SERS sensors.

They found that Raman spectra from COVID-positive and -negative people were different in regions responsive to ketones, alcohols and aldehydes, which they used to develop a statistical model for COVID diagnosis.

Scientists have previously developed breathalyser-type tests for COVID-19, which rely on differences in concentrations of volatile organic compounds exhaled by those infected with the . However, most of the past tests require bulky, nonportable instruments for analysis.

The team tested the new breathalyser on 501 people in hospitals and airports in Singapore.

The participants were shown by RT-PCR to be negative (85.2 per cent), positive and symptomatic (8.6 per cent), or positive and asymptomatic (6.2 per cent) for the .

The breathalyser had a 3.8 per cent false-negative and 0.1 per cent false-positive rate, comparable to RT-PCR tests, but it could be completed on-site in less than five minutes.

The breathalyser could someday be a new tool to reduce the silent spread of COVID-19 in communities, the researchers 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.)
Parkland school shooter Nikolas Cruz sits at the defense table during his appearance at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Oct. 20, 2021. (Amy Beth Bennett/Pool via Reuters)

Death Penalty Trial for Florida School Gunman Cruz Delayed Until April

A judge on Wednesday delayed until April proceedings to determine the sentencing of the gunman who has pleaded guilty to murdering 17 people at a Parkland, Florida, high school in 2018.

Jurors during the phase that had earlier been scheduled to start later this month will hear testimony from scores of witnesses to help them decide whether to sentence Nikolas Cruz, 23, to death or life in prison for Floridas deadliest school shooting.

Cruz wore a facemask and thick glasses as he sat in Broward Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherers courtroom on Wednesday. Scherer agreed to the prosecutions request to push back the start of what was expected to be a months-long process.

Jury selection will begin the first week of April to allow lawyers for both sides more time to prepare witnesses, many of them mental-health experts. Lawyers were asked to keep the judge apprised of any need to delay it even further.

Cruz was a 19-year-old expelled student when he returned to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on Feb. 14, 2018 and opened fire on students and staff. He pleaded guilty in October 2021 to 17 counts of murder and 17 counts of attempted murder.

Under Florida law, a jury must be unanimous in its decision to recommend that a judge sentence Cruz to be executed. If any of the 12 jurors objects, Cruz will be sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Among the mitigating factors the defense will ask the jury to consider are Cruzs brain damage from his mothers drug and alcohol abuse during pregnancy, his long history of mental-health disorders and allegations he was sexually abused and bullied.

By Barbara Goldberg
Between being a blank slate and someone who is certain about their skills, Deepika Padukone says she wishes to be a blend of both as the actor completes 15 years in Hindi cinema in 2022.

The former model made her Bollywood debut with 2007's reincarnation romantic drama Om Shanti Om and has built a filmography boasting titles like Love Aaj Kal, Cocktail, Piku, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, and Padmaavat, among others.

"It has been so much (about) learning, processing, understanding, growing, evolving. I hope that journey for me always continues," Padukone, who made her film debut with the 2006 Kannada movie Aishwarya, said.

She formed her own production company Ka Productions in 2018, under which she produced and starred in Chhapaak (2020) and 83 (2021). Also an entrepreneur, Padukone is the founder of the Live Love Laugh Foundation, which creates awareness on mental health in India.

The 36-year-old actor, who has also starred in the Hollywood film XXX: Return of Xander Cage (2017), said she hopes to keep evolving as a person and professional.

"I don't walk on to the set with the thought that I'm so many films old or I know better than all of you. My approach is what I can learn from the set of these new people. It's a new film, director and experience.

"Be a mix of a blank slate and someone who has experience. Your past experience of films also comes in. To be able to find that balance, it's a bit of both. The scariest thing that can happen is to stagnate," Padukone told PTI in an interview over Zoom.

Next up for her is Gehraiyaan, a drama on modern-day relationships. It also stars Siddhant Chaturvedi, Ananya Panday, and Dhairya Karwa, with Naseeruddin Shah and Rajat Kapur in pivotal roles.

In the Shakun Batra directorial, Padukone plays Alisha, whom she simply described as "human".

The actor said the film is an attempt to instill empathy in the audience towards all types of people.

"The process of this film has made me realise there's no white, black or grey. It's actually human. We categorise characters because we just don't know characters like this enough in cinema.

"It's very easy to say this one is flawed, this one is a villain or a hero. We have tried to humanise this character and understand the reason behind her choices. Hopefully we have been able to achieve that."

Alisha is an "ambitious" person with baggage from the past who is seeking a better life, she said, adding that women with ambition are often judged by society.

"A lot of times ambition is addressed in a negative way, especially when a woman is ambitious. Characters like her get judged. It's ok to be ambitious and want a better life. The minute there is emotion, empathy and understanding, you're with the character," she said.

"When so many different things are thrown at you, what are the choices you make in your life at that moment? They say, sometimes in the most stressful situations you get to know a person," she added.

The actor said she took her time to give her nod to the project after Batra narrated the story to her.

"Roles like this are extremely demanding. These parts come from an extremely deep emotional place within... I took about two days to get back to him. That really was the time that I took to process the narration. 'This is going to demand a lot from me. Am I ready for that kind of commitment?'

"But the minute I make that commitment I don't really think about how difficult it is. All I'm trying to do on set is be as honest as possible to the character and the scene. Some days will be tough, some days it will be easy. That's the way it is."

While it is an extremely realistic and layered character, she said, there are light moments to Alisha.

"It has been (both) exhausting and fun," she added.

Jointly backed by Dharma Productions and Viacom18 Studios in association with Batra's Jouska Films, "Gehraiyaan" is an Amazon Original film which will start streaming from February 11.

The film is also garnering attention for being one of the first Indian projects to have an intimacy director on board. Dar Gai, an India-based Ukraine-born filmmaker, is credited as the intimacy director on "Gehraiyaan".

Padukone said intimacy is part of the movie and not the main premise.

"(Having an intimacy director) adds an element of security, comfort and trust. But there is so much more to the film than intimacy. The intimacy comes in when you are trying to be authentic with modern-day relationships. It's just a part of the film. A lot of time we shy away from showing what relationships in real life are or what they could be on screen," she added.

After Gehraiyaan, Padukone has films like Pathan, Project K and Fighter on her slate.

Pathan reunites the actor with Shah Rukh Khan, her co-star of three films "Om Shanti Om", "Chennai Express" and "Happy New Year".

Directed by Siddharth Anand and produced by Yash Raj Films, the film is expected to be released by 2022 end, she said.

"We are in the process of finishing 'Pathan' now which should hopefully be released by the end of this year. We have a last schedule left."

Nag Ashwin's sci-fi movie Project K will see Padukone opposite Baahubali star Prabhas. In Fighter, also directed by Anand, she will share the screen with Hrithik Roshan.

"I started 'Project K' with Prabhas two months ago, we are doing it in multiple languages. It's a pan India film. I'll start shooting for 'Fighter' in the next couple of months. All these are with different actors, stories and directors. I'm looking forward to all of them," she added
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The U.K. governments long awaited white paper on leveling up could hardly have appeared at a less propitious time. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is distracted by partygate. His Conservative Party is in turmoil. Labour is baying for blood. Vladimir Putin occupies the tiny sliver of the British mind reserved for serious politics. There will inevitably be accusations that the government is engaged in a cynical exercise in wagging the dog.

Yet the white paper  usually a precursor to legislation  is a serious discussion about a serious subject, indeed the most serious subject in British politics. The country is one of the most regionally and socially unequal societies in Europe as well as one of the most centralized. The 2016 referendum on European Union membership revealed that more than half the population was so angry with status quo established under the governments of Tony Blair and David Cameron that it was willing to turn the table upside down. Much of the discontent was concentrated in left behind Britain, most obviously in the post-industrial north  the countrys broken heartland  but also in decaying seaside resorts, or ex-resorts, shabby provincial towns and cities and inaccessible regions such as Cornwall.

Any post-Brexit government of whatever political hue had no choice but tackle the problem. Theresa May pledged to focus on families that were just-about-managing before she was swamped by Brexit. Johnson then broadened the agenda to leveling up the country: that is equalizing the distribution of opportunities between regions and, to a lesser extent, between classes.

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This time, leveling up was swamped by the pandemic rather than Brexit. But, to his credit, Johnson has worked hard to put it back at the heart of his agenda, allocating the biggest brains he can get his hands on to the subject. Michael Gove, the secretary of state in charge of the policy, has the best reforming record of any senior Tory, as demonstrated by his stormy but transformative time as secretary of state for education in 2010-14.

One of Goves first moves was to rename the old Department of Housing and Communities the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. Neil OBrien, his right-hand man, has been thinking about this subject since he was special adviser to Chancellor George Osborne from 2012 to 2016. Andrew Haldane, the former chief economist of the Bank of England and very far from a Conservative political appointee, is one of the countrys most innovative economic thinkers.

The governments blueprint for spreading opportunity more equally across the country is an admirable one. It tackles the most common complaint about leveling up  that its just a buzzword  by providing both a definition and a metric for measuring success. The government can now be held accountable for delivery rather than just aspiration.

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It addresses a wide-range of problems that affect regular people  particularly the just-about managing  from poor transportation links (a particular problem in the north where it is often easier to travel to London than it is to get across the country) to unequal educational opportunities to planning permission. It presents serious solutions to Britains structural inequalities such as improving technical education, creating more free schools, shifting new arts funding out of London and building more houses in the north. And it acknowledges, against the fierce opposition of the Treasury, that you cant do anything about regional inequality without also tackling centralization. Gove promises that every part of the country will have the chance to appoint their own London-style mayors in what will amount to the biggest shift of power from Whitehall to local leaders in modern times.

Implementing this ambitious agenda will be a formidable task. The aging of the population means that the British state doesnt have the same capacity for engineering big structural reforms that it did under Margaret Thatcher. Resources are immediately gobbled up by the National Health Service and Community Care. The cost-of-living crisis  the combination of increasing prices of necessities and rising taxes  will inevitably affect poorer Britons more than richer ones. The reduction in the living wage in particular will drive many just-about-managing people into real poverty. Devolving power to the provinces will inevitably mean devolving power to Labour mayors such as Andy Burnham in the Manchester region and Jamie Driscoll North of Tyne, which helps to explain why so many Labour voices have been loud in praising the reforms.

Regional inequalities are deeply rooted in British society. Great Victorian novels such as Elizabeth Gatskells North and South lamented the gap between the smoky north and the bucolic Home Counties. The reforming Labour government of 1964 tried to do something about it with little effect. If anything, the problem has been getting worse. The Covid pandemic has hit the working classes  who are more concentrated in the north  far harder than the professional classes. The brutal truth is that London is a key node of the global capitalist economy  a financial, services and cultural goliath  while Manchester is not.

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However, the leveling-up agenda is in danger of sprawling all over the place  becoming regional policy, industrial policy, educational policy and, indeed, cultural policy. The last Conservative Party Conference was an exuberant festival of leveling up as every government department and every lobbying group competed to get a bit of the action. A policy that tries to do everything can too easily end up by doing nothing.

The best antidote to policy sprawl is a disciplined prime minister in Downing Street who keeps a tireless watch on a big idea, just as Thatcher did with the free-market reforms of the 1980s. Even when hes not distracted by fighting for his survival, Johnson is nobodys idea of a disciplined prime minister, and certainly no Thatcher. He prefers flamboyant photo opportunities to the hard drilling of policymaking. His absence in the House of Commons on Wednesday as Gove unveiled his white paper was as notable as it was depressing. The energetic Gove will have to make up for the prime ministers personal foibles by driving his policy day and night.

For all that, the government deserves to be congratulated for taking on a big problem rather than shying away from it. Britains practice of pouring public subsidies into the already successful Great Wen of London was a disgrace. Public policy should have aimed at reducing market-based regional inequalities rather than reinforcing them. The London-based elites habit of ignoring the festering problems in the regions was contemptible. The white paper is part of a British renaissance in thinking about how to improve life in out-of-the-way towns.

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British politics is currently at a fever pitch as the Labour Party demands the prime ministers resignation on almost daily basis and, in response, the prime minister waves the bloody shroud of Jimmy Savile, the television personality and disgraced pedophile who died in 2011. But it is notable that the Labour Partys policy on leveling up is not that different from the Conservative Partys  indeed the oppositions shadow minister to Gove, Lisa Nandy, didnt know whether to accuse the government of heading off in the wrong direction or savage it for stealing Labours policies.

There may be lots of reasons for thinking that the country would be well rid of Johnson. But his signature policy of leveling up deserves to survive long after he  and indeed the current Conservative government  has disappeared over the horizon.

More From This Writer and Others at Bloomberg Opinion:

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Why the U.K.s Ruling Party Cant Rule Itself: Adrian Wooldridge



Boris Johnson Is Spared But Hardly Off the Hook Yet: Therese Raphael



Boris Johnsons Houdini Act Loses Its Magic Touch: Martin Ivens

(Corrects period of Thatcher reforms in 11th paragraph.)

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Adrian Wooldridge is the global business columnist for Bloomberg Opinion. He was previously a writer at the Economist. His latest book is The Aristocracy of Talent: How Meritocracy Made the Modern World.

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In this photo illustration a man uses a COVID-19 rapid antigen test kit at home in Sydney, Australia, on Sept. 29, 2021. (Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Vic Labor Government Funds RATs Manufacturing in Australia

The Victorian Labor Government has promised that the state will support locally manufactured rapid antigen tests (RATs) for secure supply in the midst of the Labor Opposition Leader Anthony Albaneses campaign for free RATs manufactured in Australia.

The Labor government released a statement on Feb. 2 stating that the government will support a manufacturing facility and innovation hub in Victoria if the TGA approves.

The state will be partnering with Lumos Diagnostics which is already making RATs, trading under the name CoviDx for Canadian and European markets. On the companys website, the test is claimed to have a sensitivity and specificity when compared to the PCR test, to be 93.75 percent (pdf).

This number is likely calculated by dividing the sensitivity of CoviDx by the sensitivity of the PCR test which falls between 99.1 to 99.8 percent, therefore multiplying the two numbers together, the sensitivity of Lumos Diagnostics test falls a little below 93.75 percent.

The company also claims the same level of specificity as the PCR test. However, no reports have been released by the company publicly to verify these results.

Currently, the Victorian government and Lumos expect to produce one million tests a month from April, three million from August with full production expected to commence from October onwards for up to 50 million RATs each year.

If approved, the state government promises to secure priority supply of several million tests from Lumos to meet consumer demand.

Being able to scale up production so quickly shows the strength of Victorias advanced manufacturing capabilities, the state premier, Daniel Andrews said on Feb. 2.

The state government stated that this project will create at least 70 ongoing jobs, the premier of the state, Daniel Andrews said that this project will protect and secure the states supply chain and create local jobs.

The Labor government has also provided $268.5 million in funding into COVID-19 treatment research and is supporting a mRNA vaccine manufacturing facility to be built in Melbourne by 2024.

The news of this comes as the Labor Opposition Leader, Anthony Albanese promised free RATs for Australians if he succeeds at the election expected in May of 2022.

The free RATs would be limited and could be accessed through Medicare.

They should be available through the Medicare schedule. You would have a limit, as there is, Albanese said on ABC News Breakfast on Jan. 30.

Albanese also called for local manufacturing of RATs in Australia stating that Australians need to manufacture rapid engines and tests here. One of the lessons of this pandemic is that we need to be more self-reliant.

The Labor Party has proposed a National Reconstruction Fund which will support Australia-made manufacturing.

Currently, the federal government has implemented free RATs for concession cardholders, where cardholders can take up to 10 free tests over a three-month period through pharmacies, with a maximum of five free RATs at most in a month.
Ltd (TEIL) has reported a 37 per cent rise in its consolidated net profit to Rs 130.12 crore for the December 2021 quarter on higher revenue.

The net profit of the company, which is into sugar and engineering businesses, stood at Rs 94.66 crore in the year-ago period.

The total income also increased to Rs 1,242.40 crore in the third quarter of this fiscal from Rs 1,130.73 crore in the corresponding period of the previous year, according to a regulatory filing.

It has an order book of Rs 1,808.39 crore for combined engineering businesses. The company's consolidated debt stood at Rs 592 crore as of December 31, 2021.

In a statement, TEIL's CMD Dhruv M Sawhney said: The increase in cane prices by Rs 250 per tonne for the sugar Season 2021-22 will be largely offset by the recent increase in sugar prices".

The estimated stocks of 6.65 million tonnes at the end of the current sugar season in September are likely to support the domestic sugar prices, he added.

Sawhney said the continuance of exports and/or substantial diversion of sugar for ethanol will be key to maintaining the sugar prices.

"We hope that the Government addresses the long-pending increase in Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of sugar to maintain the viability of sugar mills and to preserve their cane price paying capacity," he said.

On the pricing side, even though sugar prices have come off their recent peaks both in domestic and global markets, they are higher than last year.

With a global deficit anticipated yet again in the 2021-22 season, he expects international sugar prices to stay firm.

Without export assistance, Sawhney said, northern millers might not participate in exports unless the international prices improve meaningfully from current levels.

However, he said, exports might continue to be viable from Maharashtra and other coastal regions.

"The distillery segment continued its strong performance driven by higher sales volumes and realisation prices due to improved product mix," he said.

Sawhney said the company expects the first tranche of 220-kilo litre per day (KLPD) distillery expansion of its 340 KLPD growth plans to commence by March 2022.

The balance of 120 KLPD is expected to be operational around Q1 of FY23.

"The company's overall capacity after both expansions will more than double from current levels of 320 KLPD to 660 KLPD," he said.

Sawhney said the engineering businesses have largely overcome the impact of COVID on their operations and those of customers and has put up a much better performance in terms of turnover and profitability.

"A broad-based economic recovery, which is already underway, is likely to keep the demand strong for these businesses," he said.

Sawhney said the power transmission business was poised for strong growth in the coming years across the gamut of services, such as defence, gears and built to print.

"The company has a strong order pipeline in its water business and we continue to bid for many new projects to improve it further," he said.

TEIL is a diversified industrial conglomerate having a major presence in sugar and engineering.

It currently has seven sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh.

While the company's power transmission (Gears) manufacturing facility is located at Mysuru, the water and wastewater treatment business is in Noida.

The company currently operates 6 co-generation power plants located across five sugar units and two molasses-based distilleries in Uttar Pradesh, located at Muzaffarnagar and Sabitgarh.

The company manufactures Indian Made Indian Liquor (IMIL) at its Muzaffarnagar distillery.

(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.)
Japan's Co Ltd sold 18.95 million Switch units in the nine months to the end of December, the company said on Thursday, taking total sales past 100 million units and exceeding lifetime sales of the Wii console.
Confronting the Medical Debate Around After-Birth Abortion

Commentary

In November 2021, the Supreme Court of the United States heard arguments in a potentially important abortion case. The case dealt with the constitutional validity of a Mississippi law, the Gestational Age Act, which prohibits abortion procedures after the 15th week of pregnancy.

This case is widely regarded as a major test that will settle the future of Roe v Wade, decided by the Supreme Court in 1973. In that case, the court relied on an implied constitutional right of privacy to condone abortion during the first six months of pregnancy.

The right to an abortion has been a battleground for a long time. As such, constitutional scholars and philosophers are certain to come across relevant articles that are both fascinating and repulsive.

An example of such an article, entitled After-birth abortion: why should the baby live? was recently published in the Journal of Medical Ethics. This journal describes itself as a leading journal covering the whole field of medical ethics, promoting ethical reflection and conduct in scientific research and medical practice.

The authors of the article, Alberto Giubilini and Francesca Minerva explain why after-birth abortionthe killing of newborn infantsshould be permitted. They call it after-birth abortion because the baby would already have been born at the time of the abortion.

In their article, they argue that there is a serious philosophical issue when conditions, which exist after birth, are the same as those that exist during the gestational period. If the conditions before birth were to justify an abortion, then after-birth abortion would also be justified.

In these cases, they contend, we need to assess facts in order to decide whether the same arguments that apply to killing a human fetus can also be consistently applied to killing a newborn human.

They conclude that killing a newborn could be ethically permissible in all the circumstances where abortion would be.

Demonstrators gather in front of the U.S. Supreme Court as the justices hear arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health, a case about a Mississippi law that bans most abortions after 15 weeks, in Washington, on Dec. 1, 2021. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Even if newborn infants have the potential to lead an acceptable life, their killing would be justifiable whenever they are a burden on the family and/or society.

They distinguish after-birth abortionthey are careful not to call it infanticideand euthanasia. When euthanising a child, the killing is a response to the expressed wishes of the child, but after-birth abortion, since it is impossible for an infant to express an opinion, would merely consider the interests of the family and the society.

The article is an example of result-oriented research, which seeks to construct arguments that condone infanticide. There is no doubt that the article makes horrific reading because it describes infanticide as a form of abortion on the ground that an infant is unable to contribute value to his/her life and lacks awareness.

The authors advocacy for killing weak and vulnerable infants surely could be compared to, and could have been inspired by, the Nazi extermination handbooks of the 1930s that supported the killing of unworthy people who were gassed in bespoke facilities, even before the war. The Nazi regime killed unworthy lives, especially people with disabilities, in stationary gas chambers, disguised as shower facilities.

Specifically, the authors argue that the moral status of an infant is equivalent to that of a fetus in the sense that both lack those properties that justify the attribution of a right to life to an individual.

In this context, they state that: Merely being human is not in itself a reason for ascribing someone a right to life.

The arguments in favour of the killing of infants, even if they could have productive lives, on the ground that they do not have the awareness or aspirational aims, clearly sets humanity on a slippery slope.

Their argument is utterly simplistic because it denies the reality that an infant is a person, who is entitled to protection and care. It disregards the reality that their reasoning could easily be extended to adults who lack identity and aspirations, and the elderly because they are a burden on society and often require sophisticated and expensive medical care, welfare payments and assistance.

In a euthanasia context, this slippery slope has been observed in Belgium and the Netherlands, as so capably narrated by Father John Fleming in his ground-breaking book on euthanasia, To Kill or Not to Kill.

For example, the Groningen Protocol of 2002 allows the termination of the life of infants with a hopeless prognosis who experience what parents and medical experts deem to be unbearable suffering.

It is disturbing that the authors article has been published in a journal of repute.

A pro-life activist holds a model fetus during a demonstration in front of the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., on June 29, 2020. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Nevertheless, I do not advocate the suppression of these pernicious ideas because to do so would show intolerance of free speech. Suppression of ideas would send them deeper, to fester and infect.

But they need to be confronted determinedly and unmasked to reveal the heartless claim that a foetus and infant are not persons because they are unable to contribute to their own existence.

The ideas described in the article are reprehensible and violate the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which states that Every human being has the inherent right to life. This right shall be protected by law. No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his life.

This article, which ratifying countries have promised to respect, does not make a distinction between infants and adults; it merely refers to human beings, which obviously include infants.

Similarly, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, proclaims that States Parties recognize that every child has the inherent right to life. In accordance with the convention, a child is a person under the age of 18.

The concept of after-birth abortion is a euphemism for infanticide. I received an email message that deals with this issue. In it, the sender states that he shared copies of the article with many people.

He described their reaction: One doctor went white with fear and then went on to share it with colleagues. None of them even had an idea of the concept.

He concluded his message by alerting the recipients of the email message that the concept of after-birth abortion is a very real part of the agenda and people need to wake up to it because the argument included the idea that some children would not just be a burden to their families but also to the society in general.

Hopefully, the Supreme Court of the United States will take notice of this agenda and re-affirm the value of human life.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) Thursday said it has extended a line of credit of USD 500 million to for financing the purchase of products.

With the signing of the LOC agreement for USD 500 million, Exim Bank, to date, has extended 10 lines of credit to the Sri Lankan government on behalf of the Indian government, taking the total value of LOCs extended to USD 2.18 billion, a release said.

Projects covered under the LOCs extended to includes the supply of products, railway projects, defence and infrastructure projects.

has now in place 276 LOCs, covering 61 countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), with credit commitments of around USD 27.84 billion, available for financing exports from India.

(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.)
Ukraine Says a Russian Attack Will Cause Full-Scale War, Tragedy in Europe

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky on Feb. 1 warned Russia against initiating military conflict against Kyiv in what would be a full-scale war in Europe.

Zelensky told reporters after a meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson that he believes a Russia-Ukraine conflict would have implications for Europe.

Russians need to hear us, they need to listen and they need to understand that no one needs war. But we arent inviting to our land anyone armed. I can say for sure that the nation has changed, society has changed, the army has changed, thereve been many different changes, Zelensky said during a joint press conference, according to state media outlet Ukrinform.

Now there will be no occupation of any city or territory. It will be, unfortunately, a tragedy if a major escalation against our country kicks off. So I say, frankly, that this wont be a war between Ukraine and Russia; this will be a war in Europe, a full-scale war. Thats because no one will be giving up on any of its territories and people, Zelensky warned.

Western officials estimate Russia has amassed about 100,000 troops near the Ukraine border, while Ukrainian officials have estimated as many as 127,000 Russian troops stationed at the border.

Top U.S. General Mark Milley this week described Russias troop build-up near Ukraine as the largest since the Cold War.

Meanwhile, U.S. officials said Wednesday that the United States will send nearly 3,000 extra troops to Poland and Romania to shield Eastern Europe from a potential spillover from the crisis over the massing of Russian troops.

Zelensky, who has repeatedly played down the prospect of an imminent invasion, signed a decree to boost his armed forces by 100,000 troops over three years. He urged lawmakers to stay calm and avoid panic.

The troop increase was not because we will soon have a war  but so that soon and in the future, there will be peace in Ukraine, Zelensky said.

Russia has denied it is planning an invasion but has demanded that NATO pull back troops and weapons from Eastern Europe and bar its neighbor Ukraine, a former Soviet state, from ever joining the alliance. Washington and its NATO allies reject that position but say they are ready to discuss other topics such as arms control and confidence-building measures.

Russia seized control of Ukraines Crimea Peninsula in 2014 and Ukraines Donbas region has since seen violence that has taken more than 14,000 lives. The region is now under de facto control by Russia-backed separatists.

Reuters contributed to this report.
STOCKHOLM, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- EvoluteIQ, a leading platform provider for hyperautomation enablement today announced that the technology company has been recognized as a Representative Vendor in December 2021 Gartner Market Guide for Business Process Automation Tools report.

"We are excited and happy to be a part of this Gartner Market Guide since we believe this comes at a time when automation is soon becoming the mainstay in today's digital-first world. We consider that this recognition is a testament to the e.IQ platform's ability to build automated business solutions in a simple, scalable, and cost-effective way," said Sameet Gupte, Chief Executive Officer at EvoluteIQ.

The report states, "This market guide helps applications and software engineering leaders understand this market's key features, functionality, use cases and trends." The report recognizes EvoluteIQ as a Representative Vendor. Further it states, "BPA tools support organizational transformation by orchestrating, automating and monitoring end-to-end business processes."[1]

According to Gartner, "automation efforts within enterprises are increasingly becoming more business-led rather than IT-led. As a result, enterprises have become more interested in investing in technologies that enable business users to Intuitively map/model business processes, identify automation opportunities and rapidly deploy business-unit-specific automated workflows."

The e.IQ platform offers an end-to-end capability for enabling the digital transformation for businesses. The unified platform eliminates the need for multiple bots and siloed technologies. Automated business solutions built using the e.IQ Platform have been successfully implemented across industries including banking, insurance and healthcare, with go-live in 4-6 weeks and upto 70% reduction in implementation costs.

Gartner Disclaimer

[1] Gartner," Market Guide for Business Process Automation Tools", Tushar Srivastava, Akash Jain, Naved Rashid, 6 December 2021. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is 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.

About EvoluteIQ

EvoluteIQ is a Nordea & Confidus Venture Capital backed technology company headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden with a global presence in the UK, US and India. The company's core solution is the e.IQ Hyperautomation enablement Platform. The integrated platform combines the capabilities of process orchestration, data and event processing, AI/ML, enterprise connectors and front-end application development to build seamless user journeys using a simple, low-code / no-code interface.

For more information about EvoluteIQ and to learn how the e.IQ platform helps transform businesses through hyperautomation enablement, please visit www.evoluteiq.com.

Media Contacts:

Vibha Krishnan

[email protected]



SOURCE EvoluteIQ
A part of Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is displayed on an undated photo. (olivier Collet JMwCe3w7qKk/unsplash)

Read How Analysts Reacted to AMDs Q4 Results

Analysts remain optimistic on Advanced Micro Devices Inc. post Q4 beat.

Keybanc analyst John Vinh maintained AMD with an Overweight and raised the price target from $155 to $165 (41.3 percent upside).

Summit Insights analyst KinNgai Chan reiterated his Hold rating on AMD after its better than expected Q4 results.

The analyst notes that the company will continue to outperform near-term expectations through the first half of the year due to market share gains against Intel Corp. in both the PC client and the data center markets.

However, those gains will moderate toward the end of the first half as Intel refreshes its product line.

Chans industry checks indicate a high probability of increased price competition in the CPU market in the second half of the year.

By Anusuya Lahiri

 2021 The Epoch Times. The Epoch Times does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
DHAKA, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Bangladesh's total exports in the first seven months of the current 2021-22 fiscal year (July 2021-June 2022) reached nearly 30 billion U.S. dollars, up 30.34 percent year on year, showed official data released on Wednesday.

The increase was attributed to good performance in the ready-made garment sector.

The Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) data posted on its website showed that Bangladesh earned 29,548.92 million dollars from exports in the July-January period, compared to 22,670.24 million dollars a year earlier.

Of the total earnings, those from ready-made knitwear and woven garment items surged 30.3 percent to about 24 billion dollars during the cited period.

In the first seven months of the current 2021-22 fiscal year, the knitwear garment export rose 32.89 percent year on year to 13.27 billion dollars, and the woven garment export registered an increase of 27.23 percent to 10.71 billion dollars.

With hefty growth in garment exports, Bangladesh shipped goods worth 4.85 billion dollars in January, an increase of 41.13 percent year on year.

Bangladesh set its export goal for the 2021-22 fiscal year at 43.50 billion dollars, including 35.14 billion dollars from ready-made garment products, which usually account for about 85 percent of the national shipment in a year. 
Faced with economic stagnation the Imran Khan-led government in Pakistan which has unsuccessfully tried to increase Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) has been let down by Saudi Arabia too, on whom Islamabad pinned its hopes. A proposed investment agreement worth USD 20 billion with Saudi Arabia signed during the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bid Salman in Islamabad has failed to materialize. Even Islamabad's much-hyped announcement of the construction of USD 10 billion Saudi Aramco oil refinery, part of the long-term investment, is yet to take off, according to Islam Khabar. Concerned with the declining FDI, Imran Khan had in October 2021, urged Saudi companies and entrepreneurs to invest in Pakistan while addressing the Saudi-Pakistan Investment Forum. Saudi companies wanted to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan in the field of energy, manufacturing, logistics, and transportation, among others However, they were deterred by inadequate infrastructures such as water, gas/power, and connectivity, and inefficient institutional set-up leading to corruption in Pakistan reported Islam Khabar. They were also concerned with delays in departmental approvals & clearances besides the non-availability of local bank financing. Furthermore, the Saudi companies showed concern about the lack of consistency & transparency in Pak investment policy. Additionally, investors were also discouraged by frequent political interventions and unrest due to public protests. Saudi entrepreneurs were reportedly of the view that Pak companies lack in implementation of quality compliance protocols in manufacturing Another concern was the lack of adequate capacity to meet export obligations as evidenced by their failure to meet follow-up supply requirements timely and with the requisite quality. This is attributed to the lack of skilled manpower in Pakistan's domestic labor market. Moreover, Pakistan companies are also seen as conservative and traditional in marketing their products with a limited budget and reluctant to adopt new-age marketing techniques, reported Islam Khabar. Pakistan is trying to push the FDI inflow through a basket of incentives however, despite these, in July-October quarter FY 2021-22, Pakistan FDI recorded a decline of 12 per cent to USD 662.5 million as compared to USD 750 million during the same period of the previous year. (ANI)
BISSAU, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- The minister of tourism and spokesman for the government of Guinea-Bissau, Fernando Vaz, confirmed on Wednesday 11 people died during the failed coup attempt that took place in the country on Tuesday.

During a press conference, he specified that the dead included civilians, security guards and soldiers, calling the act "violent and barbaric".

Vaz stressed the role of the security forces in the "well-planned coup d'etat, aimed at assassinating the President of the Republic, Umaro Sissoco Embalo", adding that "the government salutes the courage and determination of the defense and security forces which have prevented the subversion of the constitutional order."

He accused the actors of this act of wanting to install "chaos in the country", denounced external funding, and promised a thorough investigation to bring to justice "the material and moral authors" of this act.

The spokesman reiterated the commitment of the authorities to defend "democracy and the rule of law". 
Pentagon spokesman John Kirby speaks during a briefing at the Pentagon in Washington, Feb. 2. The United States continues to remain focused on its joint defense capabilities with South Korea and will make any related decisions through close consultation with Seoul, a Pentagon spokesperson said Wednesday. AP-Yonhap



The United States continues to remain focused on its joint defense capabilities with South Korea and will make any related decisions through close consultation with Seoul, a Pentagon spokesperson said Wednesday.



John Kirby made the remarks when asked if the U.S. and South Korea were considering postponing joint military exercises despite a recent series of missile launches by North Korea.



"As I've said many times, we take our readiness on the peninsula very, very seriously," he said in a press briefing.



"Decisions about how we preserve that readiness and maintain it are decisions we make in lockstep with our South Korean allies, and that includes training events," he added.



Earlier reports said the allies may be considering postponing their combined training exercises, scheduled to be held next month, but largely because of the South Korean presidential election slated to be held March 9.



"We constantly evaluate and review our training exercises, our training events, training and education, and adapt it as conditions warrant and that's no different than what you're seeing on the Korean Peninsula," Kirby said.



Seoul and Washington have delayed or even suspended some joint military drills when former U.S. President Donald Trump held the first-ever U.S.-North Korea summit with Kim Jong-un in June 2018, and also were forced to further delay or reduce joint training events due to the COVID-19 pandemic since early 2020.



Still, the consideration to delay upcoming military exercises follows multiple missile launches by North Korea, which the U.S. has repeatedly condemned as a serious violation of multiple U.N. Security Resolutions and a threat to South Korea and other countries in the region.



"We condemn these launches. We're monitoring as closely as you can. (We) certainly call on North Korea to meet their obligations under UN Security Council resolutions and stop these provocations," Kirby said when asked if the U.S. and South Korea may consider resuming or reinforcing their joint military exercises as part of steps against North Korea's missile provocations.



"In the meantime, here at the Department of Defense, we're going to do what we have to do to make sure our ROK-US alliance is as strong and as flexible and as capable as possible, and that's what our focus is on here," he added, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.



North Korea has staged seven rounds of missile launches since the start of the year, with its last missile launch taking place on Sunday (Seoul time), involving what it has identified as a "Hwasong 12-type ground-to-ground intermediate- and long-range ballistic missile."



Many believe the launch, if confirmed, may indicate the North's departure from its self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and long-range missile testing that has been in place since late 2017.



Pyongyang said earlier this month that it will consider restarting all temporarily-suspended activities.



The U.S. is said to have called for a U.N. Security Council meeting to discuss the North Korean missile launches.



Washington earlier said it will take additional steps to hold North Korea responsible and accountable for its recent missile tests. (Yonhap)


Veteran Bollywood and Marathi cinema actor, director and producer, Ramesh Deo, whom film buffs will remember for his roles in hits such as 'Anand' and 'Mere Apne', died here of a heart attack on Wednesday.

Deo was 93. He was not keeping well for some days, his son and well-known Marathi actor Ajinkya informed the media.

He leaves behind his wife, Seema, also an actor, and two sons, Ajinkya and Abhinay, the film director who helmed 'Game' and 'Delhi Belly'.

The handsome actor, born in Amravati, Maharashtra, on January 30, 1926, celebrated his 93rd birthday three days ago and a number of his well-wishers went on Twitter to celebrate the fact.

The character actor is best remembered by Hindi film fans for his role of a doctor in 'Anand' (1971), the Hrishikesh Mukherjee film starring Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan, and in Gulzar's 'Mere Apne' (1971), where Meena Kumari, Vinod Khanna and Shatrughan Sinha played the lead characters.

Over five decades, Deo essayed a number of roles in a wide range of Hindi films, right up to 'Jolly LLB' (the black comedy with Arshad Warsi and Boman Irani) in 2013 and Sunny Deol's 'Ghayal Once Again' in 2016.

Deo's main love, however, remained Marathi cinema. His debut film, where he had a cameo, was 'Patlachi Por' in 1951. His actual innings in a lead role started with 'Andhala Magto Ek Dola' in 1956.

Deo worked in more than 250 films, produced over a dozen of them and directed several others. He had several awards to his credit, including the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' at the 11th Pune International Film Festival in 2013.
A top Australian university has conceded its highly casualised workforce is unsustainable but says it cant just rely on enterprise agreements and recent federal law changes if its serious about boosting the number of people in permanent positions.

The admissions by University of Melbourne over the mass casualisation of its academic staff came as Sydney University acknowledged concerns about the practice and academics aired the emotional and financial toll of their employment conditions.

University of Melbourne lecturer Dr James Stratford has been a casual employee for more than two decades. Credit:Luis Ascui

In a submission to a Senate inquiry on job security, the University of Melbourne said it was significantly reducing its reliance on casual staff, which last year made up 47 per cent of its 11,000 employees.

The Vice-Chancellor and Provost have both personally conveyed a conviction that this provides neither a sustainable nor a desirable model for the future of the university, it said regarding its current staff arrangements.
Pakistans military said Wednesday that terrorists had assaulted two of its bases in southwestern Baluchistan province, killing at least one soldier and four assailants in the ensuing gun battles.

A separatist militant group, known as Baluch Liberation Army (BLA), took responsibility for staging the coordinated late-evening raids against the paramilitary forces camps in remote Panjgur and Nushki districts.

Both attacks have been successfully repulsed while inflicting heavy casualties to terrorists, the armys media wing said, noting the shootout in Nushki injured one military officer and intermittent firing was continuing there. The army shared no further details.

The BLA claimed that its so-called suicide squad stormed the two camps and inflicted heavy casualties on Pakistani military forces. The authenticity of the militant claim could not immediately be verified from independent sources.

Wednesdays militant attacks came a week after dozens of heavily armed separatists linked to another outlawed separatist group, known as Baluchistan Liberation Front, assaulted a military post in the provinces Kech district.

That attack killed 10 Pakistani soldiers while one attacker was killed in retaliatory fire and the rest managed to escape, according to officials. Two days after the deadly insurgent raid, a bomb attack in another district killed three paramilitary forces and wounded eight others.

Baluchistan, rich with natural gas and minerals, has for years experienced insurgent attacks, but the violence has surged dramatically in recent weeks.

Pakistani officials allege Baluch insurgents receive support and funding from rival India, charges Indian officials deny. Baluch militants are believed to have established bases in neighboring Iran for mounting attacks in Baluchistan.

China has invested billions of dollars in infrastructure projects in the province and elsewhere in Pakistan as part of Beijings global Belt and Road Initiative.

Officials in both countries say the uptick in militant violence is aimed at undermining the multibillion-dollar megaproject known as the China Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC, which is building roads, power projects and ports in the South Asian nation.

The corridor aims to link the Chinese-operated Pakistani deep-water Arabian Sea Gwadar port to Chinas landlocked western Xinjiang border region.

The stepped-up separatist violence comes as the outlawed Pakistani Taliban, known as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, have also intensified attacks across the country, mainly targeting security forces.
Re: Professor Clipper is one of the few analysts who believe [ #permalink

SOURH7WK wrote:

Professor Clipper is one of the few analysts who believe that the expansion of the new home market will accelerate while those of resale slows.



A) those of resale slows

B) it slows for resale

C) those of resale slow

D) the expansion of the retail market slows

E) there is slowing for the retail market's expansion

Expansion is singular - Eliminate A and CIn B 'it' can refer to expansion of market both. Ambiguity. Eliminate BE is so awkward it shouldnt have been a choiceAns D it is.
Swiss Consul General to Ho Chi Minh City

Mr. Martin Maier





Since the second half of the 19th century, Swiss trading companies have begun their operation in Vietnam, and Swiss consulates have also been established in Hai Phong and Saigon.





Switzerland, a neutral country, hosted the Geneva conference in 1954. In 1971, Switzerland and Vietnam officially established diplomatic relations and the first Swiss Embassy in the capital city of Hanoi was put into operation at a small office in the Metropole hotel in 1973. Based on the solid development of the cooperation relationship between the two countries, Switzerland decided on setting up the Consulate General of Switzerland in Ho Chi Minh City in 2015.The close relationship between the two countries continued thriving through regular top-level visits and meetings within the framework of international conferences. Swiss President Guy Parmelin paid a visit to Vietnam in 2019 with the role of the Minister for Economic Affairs, Education and Research.In August 2021, Vice President cum Minister of Switzerland Foreign Affairs Ignazio Cassis visited the capital city of Hanoi on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.Notably, Switzerland gave its supports to Vietnam in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. At the end of November 2021, Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc along with a business delegation also visited the partner.Up to now, the Switzerland Government spent around VND15,000 billion (US$663 million) to help Vietnam promote sustainable economic growth, aiming to improve the Vietnamese peoples lives.Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) supported Vietnam to boost the efficiency of economic policies and institutions, create an active and competitive private sector with the capabilities of accessing to global value chains, sustainable urban development and adaptation to climate change. Especially the European country has just approved a program for development and cooperation with Vietnam for the period 2021-2024 which will support Vietnam in the application of digital technology solutions for anti-flooding in urban areas and technical support for the bus rapid transit route project in Ho Chi Minh City.Furtherly, SECO also assisted to build the overall planning of Thu Duc City, promote the ability of climate change adaptation and develop smart urban traffic areas. The new cooperation program is suitable with Vietnam's strategic direction and will help Vietnam achieve sustainable growth.The signed trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), of which Switzerland is a member, will contribute to promoting the economic exchange process between the two countries; and the trade balance between the two nations will be favorable for Vietnam. Vietnam and EFTA members have been heading towards the new generation of FTAs, which will not only reduce tariff barriers but also enhance protection of intellectual property rights and investment as well as capability of accessing the market and public projects.Currently, Vietnam has attracted over 100 Swiss corporations from multinational to small and medium scale companies in the fields of pharmaceuticals, construction, food processing, machinery, information technology, logistics and commercial activities.Almost all the companies chose Vietnam for their business activities because the Southeast Asian country has a favorable business environment, a large domestic market, a young workforce, the ability to integrate into global and regional supply chains as well as development potentialities.Recently, Vietnam and Switzerland have implemented the Trade Policy and Export Promotion (SwissTrade) project to improve the efficiency of trading activities and international competitiveness of medium and large-scale enterprises through bettering general regulations of trading policies, improving the public-private diplomacy mechanism and investment environment for trade promotion. The project was planned to implement in the period 2021-2024.Besides, Switzerland concentrates on technical assistance projects to develop strategies for Vietnam's export-import development policy and to establish public-private diplomacy mechanisms to enhance exchanges of trade policies, facilitate trading and trade promotion activities between the private sector and state agencies.The project will also enhance the capacity of business support organizations in providing export support services to Vietnam's small and medium-scale enterprises, aiming to improve their competitiveness and help businesses participate in the global value chain.

By SGGP- Translated by Huyen Huong
New Delhi:

The crime branch will investigate the Jamia violence and people should not pay any heed to social media rumours, the Delhi Police said on Monday and insisted that there was no firing during the incident. According to Delhi Polices Public Relations Officer MS Randhawa, the force used "maximum restraint, minimum force" despite being "provoked" by protesters and did not carry any firearms.

"There was no firing, there have been no casualties in the Jamia violence. The crime branch will investigate the violence. Thorough investigation will be done and accountability will be fixed," he said at a press conference. "Four DTC buses, 100 private vehicles and 10 police bikes were damaged during the violence. One policeman is in the ICU," he added. Thirty-nine people were brought to hospital where their medical examination was conducted, the Delhi Police PRO said.

Randhawa said police are keeping a watch on social media and all CCTV cameras will be scanned and videos circulated on social media will also be analysed and strict action will be taken. We are monitoring social media. I appeal to students and public at large to not pay any heed to rumours, he said. The officer said the protest at Jamia started on Friday and proper arrangements were in place with picket deployment in Sarai Jullena and Sukhdev Nagar.

When students arrived at these places, they were stopped and they even tried to push the policemen who exercised maximum restraint, Randhawa said. These students left the spot after a while, he said. The protests followed on Saturday but police used maximum restraint after which the demonstrators left the spot, the officer said.

On Sunday, the protests started around 2 pm and residents of the area also joined the students. The protest took place in Jamia Nagar and adjoining areas, police said.

The protesters then marched towards Sarai Jullena, but our staff was deployed there and proper arrangements were made. The protesters were provoking but we used maximum restraint, Randhawa said.

Around 4.30 pm, some of the protesters changed the route and headed toward Mata Mandhir Marg in the New Friends Colony area which is also a residential area.

After reaching there, when police tried to push them, they resorted to vandalism. We started getting calls from panic residents. We used minimum force when protesters torched buses, he said.

Police were pelted with stones when they tried to push the protesters back towards Jamia Nagar. The Jamia campus is not unified and it is situated on both sides of the road, when violence erupted there, bottles, bulb and tube lights were also thrown, the police PRO said.

The situation was later brought under control. At least 30 police personnel, including DCP rank officers, suffered injuries and one of them is still in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), he said. Some students were detained when police were chasing protesters and trying to push them towards Jamia Nagar. Later, they were released after verification, Randhawa said.

I want to assure you that action will be taken only against those involved in illegal activity. We are trying to identify those involved in the incident and action will be taken against them, he said.

One of the videos viral on social media shows police personnel setting vehicles on fire, however, it was just a spark and policemen were containing it immediately with available resources. The bus did not suffer any damage and it was safely removed from the scene, he added.

When asked if police entered the girls hostel, the officer denied the charges and said the force only entered administrative block of the varsity. Police said they are in talks with the university administration and student associations regarding the incident.
New Delhi:

Unrest over the police crackdown in Delhi's Jamia Millia Islamia and the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act rippled in angry waves through the country on Monday with demonstrations in several campuses, including in Hyderabad, Lucknow and Mumbai. The morning after violence broke out in the national capital, thousands of students across India took to the streets demanding a probe into the use of teargas inside the Jamia library as well as police entering the campus without permission from university authorities. There was heavy police presence in university campuses.

Several Delhi University students boycotted exams and held a protest outside the Arts Faculty in North Campus to express their solidarity with the movement. They said they will gather at India Gate on Monday evening.

At ground zero of the student movement, a group of Jamia students stood shirtless in the bone-chilling cold of a Delhi morning to protest the action against their colleagues on Sunday.

Several students were seen leaving for home but the anger simmered. Slogans of "inquilab zindabad" were heard about 10 students, accompanied by their fellow colleagues, took out a small march, demanding a CBI inquiry into the "police brutality".

As a few women escorted an injured student to narrate their ordeal to the media, some people were seen asking them not to give any statements.

"We were inside the university when the police barged in. Around 20 policemen came from gate no 7 and 50 others came from the rear gate. We told them we were not involved in the violence. They didn't listen. They didn't even spare women," Khanzala, who suffered injuries to his legs and abdomen, said. A women broke down as Khanzala showed his injuries to the media.

Fifty detained Jamia students were released early Monday but tension continued in the campus. In Lucknow's Nadwa College, students gathered in the hundreds shouting slogans like "Awaz do, hum ek hain" (call us we are all united) as police tried to control the situation. "Some students of the Nadwatul Ulama here tried to protest and hurled stones from inside. They were prevented and no one is allowed to come outside the campus," said Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police O P Singh.

In Hyderabad's Maulana Azad Urdu University, students held a protest march post midnight in solidarity with the Jamia students and demanded that their exams be postponed. There were angry demonstrations at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi and at the Jadavpur University in Kolkata with demands that the government take action against police "hooliganism".

"Crackdown is a very small word to be used for what happened in Jamia yesterday. This is clear hooliganism. Videos of policemen smashing bikes and beating students are all over social media. The government must fix accountability for this," said a PHD student at BHU. Ridhima Dua, a Jadavpur University student, asked how teargas could be used inside a closed compound.

"if I am molested on a street and go to police to file a complaint I will be told about norms. Where are the norms now? How can teargas be used inside a closed compound? How can policemen just barge into the university without any permission from vice chancellor? There has to be a probe in this," she said. Students from the Tata Insitute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai also protested on the streets shouting slogans such as "Shame on Delhi Police".

In Chennai, students of the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras called for a protest. The first to join the movement against the violence in Jamia were students from the Aligarh University University (AMU) where there were clashes with the police late night on Sunday in which at least 60 students were injured.

After the protest, the administration announced closure of the university till January 5 and students have been asked to evacuate the hostels. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the state government was committed to provide security to every citizen of the state. "For this, it is necessary that everyone follows the law. Nobody will be allowed to disturb the atmosphere of peace in the state," he said.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students joined their compatriots in Jamia outside the police headquarters at Delhi's ITO on Sunday night to protest the alleged police assault on students at the Jamia campus earlier in the day. The university turned into a battlefield on Sunday as police entered the campus and also used force, following protest against the Act.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
By Troy Stangarone





In advance of the one-year anniversary of his inauguration, President Joe Biden lamented the challenges of political polarization for advancing his agenda. In noting the near universal Republican opposition to the majority of his agenda and the lack of a Republican platform for governing that might allow room for compromise, Biden asked rhetorically, "I wonder what would be the Republican platform right now. What do you think?"



While much of Republican opposition to Biden and his agenda is driven by deepening political polarization in the United States, it does have implications for the administration's ability to pursue a positive agenda on North Korea.



North Korea policy has historically been an area of bipartisan cooperation in Washington. Congress in recent years has passed legislation strengthening U.S. sanctions on North Korea by overwhelming majorities, but as the history of Iran sanctions demonstrates, removing those sanctions can be much more challenging.



When the Obama administration negotiated the Iran nuclear deal, Congress used its authority over international commerce to pass the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act. Despite the Iran agreement not being a formal treaty, Congress was able to use the Review Act to attempt to scuttle the deal. All 54 Republicans in the Senate and all 256 Republicans in the House voted against the Iran nuclear deal.



Republicans were not alone in voting against the Iran deal. Four Senate Democrats, including current Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and 19 House Democrats voted against the agreement.



The Obama administration was able to implement the Iran deal due to a quirk in the Senate rules allowing members to filibuster legislation  in essence, to prevent it from coming to the floor for a vote. In the absence of the filibuster, majorities in both chambers of Congress were in disapproval of the agreement.



Any agreement with North Korea, of course, would be potentially different, but with a 50-50 Senate, Biden would need the support of 10 Republicans to overcome a filibuster in the Senate, if Congress were to pass a review act for a North Korea agreement, or need to pass legislation to implement the agreement.



With only a six-vote majority in the House, Biden would have little room to maneuver in either chamber. This situation limits the options of the administration on U.S. sanctions relief. While Biden or members of the cabinet have the ability temporarily to waive certain U.S. sanctions, most U.S. sanctions cannot be removed permanently without Congressional legislation.



Because of the Iran experience, North Korea would likely want a formal treaty with the United States to ensure that the next administration will not simply withdraw from the agreement as the Trump administration did with the Iran nuclear deal. However, securing the 67 votes need for the Senate to approve a treaty seems unlikely in the current political environment.



In earlier periods, building such a bipartisan coalition would have been possible, but the current Republican Party is in a place that makes it extremely challenging to compromise. Nearly 50 percent of Republicans view Democrats as enemies rather than political opponents (and unfortunately, a significant number of Democrats share that view of Republicans).



Former President Donald Trump also complicates the political dynamics. He has made belief, or at least acceptance, of the fiction that the election was stolen from him a litmus test for being a Republican  a test many rank-and-file Republicans seem willing to endorse.



Even when Senate Republicans have tried maneuvers to undermine the Biden administration's domestic agenda, as was the case in using the recently passed infrastructure bill to divide Democrats over the Build Back Better plan, Trump has pushed back. In that case, enough Republicans supported the infrastructure bill, but courage in the face of Trump's criticism is not a quality in large store at the moment.



How Republicans approach an agreement on North Korea will likely reflect Trump's views and how willing he is to be critical of an agreement. North Korea was one of the few foreign policy areas where Trump put his personal effort and prestige into an agreement. In the aftermath of the withdrawal from Afghanistan and the uncertainty around Russia's potential invasion of Ukraine, any agreement that was not extremely favorable to the United States would only create an opportunity for Trump to paint Biden as a weak president.



Even if political polarization were to decline in the near future, a Republican Party that returned to its historical norms would remain skeptical of North Korea's willingness to keep its end of any agreement. Such skepticism is shared by many Democrats as well.



Political polarization isn't the only factor hindering talks with Pyongyang. The pandemic and North Korea's own reluctance to even engage in talks remain factors that hinder progress, but political polarization  and what might be achievable in the current environment  is a factor that the United States, South Korea and North Korea need to consider if talks are to be revived.





Troy Stangarone (ts@keia.org) is the senior director of congressional affairs and trade at the Korea Economic Institute.


Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast

The Republican chair of a rural Georgia election boardwhich has the power to restrict or expand access to voting, call for audits and investigations into alleged voter fraud, and certify election resultsis a QAnon-fixated election conspiracy theorist, The Daily Beast has learned.

Appointed to his position last year, Ben Johnson heads the five-member Spalding County Board of Elections and Registration, which was recently taken over by Republicans as part of broader GOP efforts across the state to secure power over elections. Johnsons fellow board members know him as a polite and capable chair, even if they sometimes disagree with his conservative politics, current and former colleagues have said.

But his personal Twitter account tells a more complicated story.

Since at least September 2020, Johnson has been tweeting credulously about QAnon, the far-right conspiracy theory that Satan-worshiping pedophiles control Hollywood and the Democratic Party. And even as QAnon adherents have sought office nationwide, the situation in Georgia was alarming to experts and advocates focused on election integrity in the era of baseless Stop the Steal panic about nonexistent voter fraud.

People like Johnson may be more willing to steal the next election if they believe that the last election was stolen (it wasnt), Rick Hasen, an expert on election law at the University of California-Irvine, told The Daily Beast in an email. Second, even if these conspiracists and QAnon adherents administer elections fairly, many people will reject election results they report because these administrators have shown themselves not to be credible.

Johnson, who is the CEO of a technology company that does IT work for the county, did not respond to repeated requests for comment for this story.

Evidence pointing to a bizarre fixation on QAnon is all over Johnsons Twitter timeline. On Sept. 23, 2020, he responded to a CBS News piece about QAnon by writing, You should ask the president Who is Q? In October 2020, Johnson tweeted at Dilbert creator Scott Adams and the now-suspended account of former Gen. Mike Flynn: Hate to say it but a hell of a lot of the information dropped by Q has turned out to be accurate, Johnson wrote.

Story continues

That same month, following a congressional resolution condemning QAnon, Johnson speculated that by demanding a roll call vote, Democrats wanted the names of Q supporters in Congress. Johnson has also posted a meme about the difference between Antifa and QAnon, which broadly paints the two as evil and good, respectively.

BUT BUT they postponed!! even after it passed Aunt Tifa wanted the names of the "Q supporters" I suppose??? pic.twitter.com/Xpiq6VcBd8  Ben M Johnson (@BeniclesMF) October 2, 2020

In December 2020, Johnson again tweeted at Adams regarding a claim that YouTube had banned election-fraud content by saying that some of the Q sites already have a class action lawsuit and speculating that a far-right YouTube network could join to fight alleged censorship. On the final day of the year, Johnson tweeted at a right-wing radio host referencing discredited election conspiracist Jovan Hutton Pulitzer, asking if Pulitzer could work his paper Q magic. (Pulitzer has claimed he has proprietary technology that can detect the presence of bamboo in paper, indicating that some mail-in ballots used in 2020 came from China. Georgias Republican secretary of state, Brad Raffensberger, has said Pulitzer provided no evidence of widespread voter fraud in the state..)

Johnson has also displayed mild skepticism about Q, tweeting in December 2020, Whether [Q is ] real or not its keeping otherwise unproductive people moving largely in the same direction.

But more often he has appeared to embrace the theory. In January 2021, Johnson tweeted at a man who disparaged QAnon, writing, More people know they have been ripped off becusae [sic] of Q and anons than would w/o it.

In May 2021, Johnson tweeted simply, We are all Q.

Logan Strain, a QAnon expert previously known as Travis View and host of the QAnon Anonymous podcast, told The Daily Beast that Johnsons tweets about the conspiracy show a deep involvement in it.

Johnson was deep into the QAnon community, knew the in-group language, and regularly read the Q Drops, Strain said after reviewing Johnsons tweets, adding that the Republican election official has referenced Q drops from as far back as 2018.

As chair of the elections board, Johnson has significant power. He and the board can regulate and decide matters regarding public comment at board meetings, possibly increasing instances of far-right conspiracists commenting at meetings, according to Xakota Espinoza, a spokesperson for Fair Fight Action, the voting rights advocacy group founded by Georgia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams.

Espinoza said that early-vote locations, the number of ballot dropboxes, precinct changes and locations, voter registration challenges, hiring and training of poll workers, processing mail ballots and applications, and certifying the countys election results all fall under the purview of the board.

Johnsons beliefs in QAnon and other conspiracies have raised alarms with outside experts and local voting rights advocates and Democrats. But they are part of a pattern of an increasingly radicalized GOP that supports the Big Lie and related conspiracies.

Still, one of Johnsons colleagues on the board expressed befuddlement at his apparent embrace of the most notorious conspiracy theory there is.

Jim Caviezels QAnon Guru Wants to Control Elections

I guess hes just not who he presented himself to me to be, Jim OBrien, one of the two Democrats on the board, told The Daily Beast.

Since at least 2013, Johnson has been active on Twitter, posting about local GOP events and tweeting at conservative politicians while mentioning Spalding County. But in 2020, like many Republicans in the county and nationwide, he became obsessed with false claims of widespread voter fraud and mishandling of the election.

Johnsons tweets cover myriad election conspiracies, from events that occurred in other states to his own false claims of fraud in his hometown, Griffin. A little more than a week after the 2020 election, Johnson tweeted about a bizarre post-election incident that occurred in which local Republicans rooted through a dumpster at the county elections office in search of evidence of discarded ballots. Johnson tweeted at disgraced Trump lawyer L. Lin Wood that day, saying he had the source video for ballots found in the dumpster in Spalding County!

When law enforcement arrived to collect this alleged evidence, they determined the envelopes did not actually contain any ballots, according to the responding agency, the Spalding County Sheriffs Office, which did not respond to questions about the incident.

No member of the election board or the Spalding County Board of Commissioners responded to requests for comment. Nor did the Spalding County GOP, which appointed Johnson to the elections board, or the Georgia Republican Party.

In February 2021, Johnson tweeted Election fraud is not a myth with the #ItalyGate hashtag, referencing a debunked conspiracy theory that originated from an obscure Florida group purporting votes were changed by Italian security officials. Johnson has also claimed Raffensberger "knowingly" lied when he said there was no widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election.

What Im finding out is theres a whole other side to him that I dont know, OBrien, the Spalding County Democrat, told The Daily Beast.

Dr. Yoshunda Jones, a local voting rights advocate and business consultant in Griffin, said Johnsons extreme beliefs are actually a feature, and not a bug, for many Republicans in the area.

A lot of them very much do feel the same way that he does, Jones told The Daily Beast. Theyre all mostly Big Lie supporters; a lot of them are involved with QAnon as well.

OBrien said there is no obvious legal recourse for removing a potential QAnon supporter from the elections board. Instead, OBrien simply shows up to election board meetings, outnumbered.

The private me says, No he shouldnt be in that position.The public me is  I plan to thwart him the best that I can, OBrien said of Johnson. And when I look around, I see a lot of Republican legislators that are holding down their positions and theyre conspiracy theorists, too.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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New York:

Not all the exoplanets that lie in the "habitable zones" of stars -- where planets are thought to be able to maintain liquid water on their surface -- will be able to maintain hospitable conditions for life, scientists say. The researchers from the New York University in the US noted that an exoplanet that is too close to its host star is highly sensitive to radiation bursts from the star, also known as flares.

This can disrupt habitable conditions unless the exoplanet has significant atmospheric or magnetic shielding, they said. The study, published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society: Letters, explored how flares from stars affect a planet's surface radiation dose, and if that can disrupt the planet's ability to host life.

The role of a planet's magnetic field strength and its atmosphere in providing shielding from these bursts was also examined. The factors measured include flare strength and spectrum, as well as the planetary atmospheric density and magnetic field strength. The researchers concluded that flares can abruptly increase the radiation level on planetary surfaces and have the capability to disrupt potentially habitable conditions on planets.

They also found that the atmospheric depth and planetary magnetic field are major factors in protecting planets from flares and maintaining a substantial planetary atmosphere. "As we continue to explore the planets of the solar system and beyond, discovering if these planets have the ability to support life continues to be of immense importance," said Dimitra Atri from New York University.

Also Read: Hubble Captures Interstellar Comet Borisov Whizzing Through Solar System

"More progress in this area will improve our understanding of the relationship between extreme solar events, radiation dose, and planetary habitability," Atri said in a statement.

For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
South Africa: President congratulates Nkosikazi Mhlauli on historic election

This story has been published on: 2022-02-03. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.

The Department of Higher Education and Training, has embarked on a process to review curricula of programmes offered in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, in order to ensure their relevance, currency and alignment to needs of industry and society. Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade ... See more
A tweet in Malayalam by Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, soon after his meeting with Kerala Chief Minister in the Emirates, has gone viral on social media as several expatriate Malayalis shared it on their virtual platforms.

Besides the tweet, the ruler also shared the picture of the reception given to Vijayan at the venue of the Expo 2020 on Wednesday.

The tweet was later shared by Vijayan on his Twitter handle.

"The UAE shares a special relationship with Kerala. Keralites are playing a significant role in the economic and developmental growth of and the UAE," he wrote in Malayalam.

Interestingly, the Chief Minister replied to Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid thanking him through an Arabic tweet. ".....Humbled by your hospitality and warm welcome...," Vijayan wrote, adding that the southern Indian state would like to further strengthen the association with the UAE and Dubai.

During their meeting on Wednesday, the Chief Minister thanked Sheik Mohamed bin Rashid for his country's support in the development of Kerala, a CMO release said.

He also sought more investments for Kerala, promising a better business-friendly environment in the southern Indian state.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister of UAE and Deputy Ruler of Dubai; Sheikh Ahmad bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates Airlines Group and President of Dubai Civil Aviation and other officials were present on the occasion.

Kerala Industries Minister P Rajeev, Indian Ambassador Sanjay Sudhir, Consul General Aman Puri and Chairman of Lulu Group and Vice Chairman of Abu Dhabi Chamber Yusuff Ali M A were also present.

(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.)
HAVANA, Jan. 31 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese community in Cuba celebrated the Lunar New Year on Monday abiding by COVID-19 safety protocols.

In Havana's Chinatown, streets and businesses along the road were adorned with red lanterns, one of the most famous decorations used by the Chinese in festivals that symbolize a prosperous business and a thriving life.

Images of martial arts performances by instructors and students from the Cuban School of Wushu and Qigong were also displayed on big screens installed in the iconic San Fan Con plaza.

Roberto Vargas Lee, the president of the school, told Xinhua that the Chinese community in Cuba would keep united during the Year of the Tiger.

"China inspires us to continue working hard for a better future," he said. "The Spring Festival is a clear expression of the richness and diversity of Chinese culture."

The celebration, which was held online last year in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, also included traditional lion dance performance.

"With these artworks, we want to express the strength of Chinese culture, traditions and customs," said Cuban painter Alexis Gonzalez. 
Veronica Gorrie is tough and brave. She has suffered intergenerational trauma, sexual and domestic abuse, and additional trauma during the 10 years she served in the Queensland police force.

Having been diagnosed with PTSD and consequent amnesia its hardly surprising that she doesnt remember a lot of her life, and that the memories she does have are neither fond nor good. The things I do remember are pretty shit, she says bluntly. But that didnt stop her writing Black and Blue: A Memoir of Racism and Resilience.

Now Gorrie, a Kurnai woman who lives in Gippsland, has some consolation: she has won the richest writing prize in the country, the $100,000 Victorian Prize for Literature, to go with the $25,000 prize for Indigenous writing she received in the Victorian Premiers Literary Awards, which were announced on Thursday evening.

Veronica Gorrie says the fear that her people all have is still here today. Credit:Penny Stephens

Other winners were: Smokehouse, Melissa Manning (fiction); The Mother Wound, Amani Haydar (non-fiction); Trigger Warning, Maria Takolander (poetry); Milk, Dylan Van Den Berg (drama); Girls in Boys Cars, Felicity Castagna (young adult), who each receive $25,000. The winner of the unpublished manuscript award, Keshe Chow for Fauna of Mirrors, receives $15,000 and the peoples choice winner, Rebecca Lim (Tiger Daughter), $2000.
New Delhi:

Baghdad on Monday issued a caution after the US warned Tehran of a decisive response if Washingtons interests are harmed in Iraq. Since October 28, ten rocket attacks have targeted areas where US soldiers and diplomats are stationed. On Monday, US defence secretary Mark Esper expressed his concern over the strikes in a telephone call with outgoing prime minister Adel Abdel Mahdi, according to a statement from the premiers office.

In response, Abdel Mahdi called on everyone to spare no effort to prevent an escalation that will threaten all parties, the statement added.

Unilateral decisions will trigger negative reactions that will make it more difficult to control the situation and will threaten Iraqs security, sovereignty and independence, he said.

Earlier, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said, Iran must respect the sovereignty of its neighbours and immediately cease its provision of lethal aid and support to third parties in Iraq and throughout the region.

We must... use this opportunity to remind Irans leaders that any attacks by them, or their proxies of any identity, that harm Americans, our allies or our interests will be answered with a decisive US response, Pompeo said in a statement.

Iran is in the grip of an economic crisis. US President Donald Trumps administration, which is close to Irans adversaries Saudi Arabia and Israel, has been trying to counter Tehrans influence around the region, including through sanctions aimed at blocking all its oil exports.

Irans economy has primarily been battered since the country has been locked in a standoff with the United States and its Gulf Arab allies after US President Donald Trump withdrew from a 2015 deal that gave it relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its nuclear programme.

The United States has imposed sanctions on Irans sovereign wealth fund, whose board of trustees includes President Hassan Rouhani, as well as Etemad Tejarate Pars, a company that the Treasury Department said had sent money internationally on behalf of Irans defence ministry.

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Minister of National Defence Vasile Dincu on Wednesday informed that he is self-isolating after getting infected, for the second time, with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and that he will continue working remotely, Agerpres reports.

"Starting on Wednesday I am self-isolating. I will continue to work remotely, I have only suspended face-to-face meetings and hearings. I have no symptoms, I feel very well and I can't wait to be back among my colleagues at the Ministry of National Defence and in the Romanian Government. Let's see each other again in good health!," Minister Dincu wrote on his Facebook page, on Thursday.
It didnt take long for right-wing activists and pundits to jump into attack dog mode once President Joe Biden announced he would nominate a Black woman for the Supreme Court seat being vacated by retiring Justice Stephen Breyer.

Ilya Shapiro, a constitutional-law expert and an incoming Georgetown Law professor, decided to get a jump start by posting on Twitter ahead of Bidens announcement:

Objectively best pick for Biden is Sri Srinivasan, who is solid [progressive] and [very] smart, Shapiro tweeted. Even has identity politics benefit of being first Asian (Indian) American. But alas doesnt fit into last intersectionality hierarchy so well get lesser black woman. Thank heaven for small favors?

You read that correctly. Lesser Black woman.

He also tweeted that if Biden will solely consider a Black woman to fill Breyers seat, his nominee will always have an asterisk attached. Fitting that the Court takes up affirmative action next term. A third tweet included a poll in which Shapiro asked his followers if Biden is racist, sexist, both or neither for his commitment to selecting a Black female nominee.

Shapiro deleted his tweets, but not before his remarks garnered fierce push back and condemnation from Georgetown Law School Dean William M. Treanor.

The tweets suggestion that the best Supreme Court nominee could not be a Black woman and their use of demeaning language are appalling, Treanor stated. The tweets are at odds with everything we stand for at Georgetown Law and are damaging to the culture of equity and inclusion that Georgetown Law is building every day.

Shapiro made similar remarks about identity following Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayors nomination to the high court in 2009. In picking Sonia Sotomayor, President Obama has confirmed that identity politics matter to him more than merit, Shapiro wrote.

Predictably, Shapiro had plenty of company from his right-wing compatriots. Fox Newss Sean Hannity said Biden said he will make his pick based purely on race and gender, which is possibly illegal. Constitutional scholar Jonathan Turley, in a Wall Street Journal article, claimed that Bidens promise is unconstitutional discrimination.

Irresponsible Fox News host Tucker Carlson argued: Its possible we have all marinated for so long in the casual racism of affirmative action that it seems normal now to reduce human beings to their race. The routinely irascible and frequently bigoted Ben Shapiro called it definitionally affirmative action and race discrimination. The National Review said, In a stroke, (Biden) disqualified dozens of liberal and progressive jurists for no reason other than their race and gender.

The reality is that such racially charged commentary is nothing short of nonsensical. In fact, such pronouncements have had long historical precedent and do not violate the law. Where were the objections when former President Donald Trump proudly announced at a MAGA rally that he intended to appoint a highly qualified woman to the Supreme Court.

Truth be told, the majority of recent Republican presidents made similar declarations with virtually no resistance from conservative quarters. In the final months of the 1980 presidential campaign, Ronald Reagan promised that he would nominate a highly qualified woman to the Supreme Court if the opportunity provided itself, adding: It is time for a woman to sit among the highest jurists.

His successor, George H.W. Bush, echoed similar sentiments when he nominated Clarence Thomas but took care to say his pick would not be based on a quota or anything other than the best person for the job.

Did the same right wingers who are now suddenly crying bitter alligator tears lash out in unhinged rage when Trump made his promise less than two years ago? Of course not.

What makes Bidens potential nominee any different? I think we all know the answer. In the eyes of many in conservative right-wing media and their base of voters, only white or white-adjacent people should be considered for the Supreme Court.

There are numerous Black women who are immensely qualified to serve on the nations highest court. At the moment, the shortlist likely consists of Ketanji Brown Jackson, Leondra Kruger and J. Michelle Childs.

Black women have been the most reliable and dedicated base of voters in the Democratic party. Black female representation on our nations most esteemed legal body is long overdue.

Elwood Watson is a professor of history, Black studies, and gender and sexuality studies at East Tennessee State University.
New Delhi:

Fuel Rates Today: The price of petrol witnessed a marginal dip on Tuesday, December 17. However, the price of diesel remained unchanged. The price of petrol has gone down by around 5 Paise to 8 Paise per litre. As per the Indian Oil website, the petrol rates are Rs 74.36 per litre in Delhi, Rs 80.29 per litre in Mumbai, Rs 77.29 per litre in Kolkata, and Rs 77.58 per litre in Chennai, respectively. On the other hand, diesel prices in Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai remained at Rs 66.04, Rs 69.27, Rs 68.45 and Rs 69.81 per litre respectively.

In Noida, petrol is retailing at Rs 76.00 a litre, while diesel price is Rs 66.35 a litre. The price of petrol in Gurugram is Rs 74.20 a litre while diesel was selling at Rs 65.35 a litre.

How To Get Petrol, Diesel Rates Via SMS

You can check the latest rate of petrol and diesel via SMS. IOC customers can send RSP to 9224992249, BPCL users can message RSP at 9223112222 and HPCL customers can send HPPRICE to 9222201122 for the latest prices.

Why Petrol, Diesel Prices Change Every Day?

The fuel prices are in India are revised daily. Petrol and diesel prices are revised every day at 06:00 am to sync it with the variation in global oil prices. Oil marketing companies (OMC) review the global fuel prices and decide petrol and diesel daily. Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum release the new rates at 6 am every morning. Generally, when international crude oil prices gain, prices in India move higher. Other factors also impact the price of fuel like rupee to US dollar exchange rate, cost of crude oil, global cues, demand for fuel, and so on.

Why Fuel Prices Differ In Every City?

The price of fuel includes excise duty, value-added tax (VAT), and dealer commission. As VAT varies from state to state, the price of fuel is different in every city.

For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Trains between West Bengal and Northeast have come to a complete halt with the Eastern Railway suspending all its services to the northern region of the state due to protests over the amended citizenship law, officials said on Monday.

Eastern Railway (ER) spokesperson Nikhil Chakraborty said no train was running beyond Malda district in West Bengal. Officials said all trains originating from Howrah, Sealdah and Kolkata stations towards north Bengal have been suspended till further notice keeping in mind the safety and security of passengers.

However, they said, trains from these three stations to destinations outside the state were running as usual. Local, passenger and express trains remained suspended in Krishnanagar-Lalgola, Azimganj-New Farakka, Nalhati-Azimganj, Sealdah-Budge Budge sections. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) had suspended all trains last week as protests spread over the amended Citizenship Act, but some services have been resumed, NFR CPRO Subhanan Chanda said.

All trains from the NFR zone to the ER zone have been cancelled on Monday in view of the situation in West Bengal, these include 19 long-distance trains. He said from December 13 night trains going towards Silchar and Agartala resumed, while the Dibrugarh Rajdhani resumed regular service the next day. Trains coming from Delhi are no longer being short-terminated at Guwahati, he said.

"All trains going to their destinations from the Northeast, including Brahmaputra Mail, Awadh-Assam Express, North East Express and Sampark Kranti Express are being diverted through Alipurduar and Katihar, instead of Malda," Chanda said.

However, he said local train services in NFR remained suspended except in Barak Valley and Agartala. Trains going towards south India from NFR zone also remain suspended. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said that just because a few trains were set on fire, the Centre has stopped railway services in most parts of the state.

Protests over the amended Citizenship Act reached the shores of West Bengal on Friday, with agitators resorting to violence and arson at railway stations and thoroughfares across the state, seeking immediate revocation of the law. They also set on fire some empty rakes. Hundreds of passengers were stranded in several stations as many trains were cancelled.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi :

Four students ofthe Pune-based Film and Television Institute of India (FTII)began indefinite hunger strike from Monday claiming that the institute has been steadily hiking fees for academic courses and entrance tests. A statement issued by the FTII Students Association on Monday night claimed that the fees for the academic courses and annual joint entrance test have gone up over years.

They claimed that the fees for the academic courses have been raised by 10 per cent every year since 2013.

Similarly, fees for the annual joint entrance examinations have also been increased since 2015, it said.

Repeated appeals against these fees hike remains unnoticed since the last three years. Therefore, the hunger strike will continue till hike in the academic fees and joint entrance test fees is revoked, the statement said.

Officials of the FTII cannot be reached for comments.
BERLIN (AP)  A prominent German archbishop advocated loosening celibacy rules for Catholic priests in comments published Thursday before a meeting of a German reform assembly.

Cardinal Reinhard Marx, the archbishop of Munich, told the daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung that it would be better for everyone to create the possibility of celibate and married priests. His comments come as his diocese has been shaken by an independent report on the church's handling of sexual abuse cases over decades, which faulted Marx and predecessors including retired Pope Benedict XVI.

Marx, a prominent reformist ally of Pope Francis, said last week that the church needs deep reform to overcome the disaster of sexual abuse.

For some priests, it would be better if they were married  not just for sexual reasons, but because it would be better for their life and they wouldn't be lonely, he said in the newspaper interview. We must hold this discussion.

He insisted that celibacy won't be scrapped altogether, but said he sees a question mark over whether it should be taken as a basic precondition for every priest.

In 2019, Marx expressed support for a call by bishops in the Amazon region for the ordination of married men as priests to address a clergy shortage there, but stopped short of calling for a global recognition of married priests.

On Thursday, the latest session of a German reform process that was launched in response to the abuse crisis is due to open. The Synodal Path," which brings together Catholic church and lay representatives, has sparked fierce resistance inside the church, primarily from conservatives opposed to opening any debate on issues such as priestly celibacy, womens role in the church and homosexuality.
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP)  The armed men kicked down the door during the night. Within minutes, men wearing police uniforms seized the opposition figure and left. It was the last time Chantal saw her husband.

The disappearance in Burundis Gihanga district in November led Chantal to flee to neighboring Congo, she told The Associated Press, giving only her first name out of fear of retaliation.

Her husband is one of at least 20 opposition members in Burundi who have been seized over the past year, Agathon Rwasa, leader of main opposition party CNL, told the AP. Some were tortured in the custody of intelligence officials, he said, citing survivors or representatives and family members able to speak with them in prison.

They are accused of having weapons in their houses. (The government) also pretends that they have ties with some rebel or armed groups," Rwasa said. "How come they always pretend that CNL members are in collusion with such kind of behavior?

Such accounts have led human rights groups to warn that Burundis government has shown little if any improvement under President Evariste Ndayishimiye, who took office after the death of President Pierre Nkurunziza in 2020 with talk of reforms after years of deadly political crackdowns.

The United States in November terminated its sanctions program on Burundi, citing changed circumstances and positive political developments there. The United Nations Human Rights Council suspended the mandate of its commission of inquiry on Burundi, and the European Union delegation in the country agreed to resume political dialogue with local authorities.

But concerns remain. In a case that drew even Ndayishimiyes attention, well-known CNL opposition figure Augustin Matata was seized in November and held by intelligence services.

He died in December after being tortured, which Burundis National Human Rights Commission acknowledged, in an unusual move. The organization has been criticized by human rights groups for not denouncing violations. The commission also alleged it had documented cases of torture in the intelligence cells, but it didnt give details and would not tell the AP whether the cases involved CNL members.

Story continues

A senior intelligence officer was imprisoned for Matatas death and in December Burundi's president surprised many by speaking to reporters about the case.

People being tortured by the intelligence, it is a crime, you know that, Ndayishimiye said. And I am going to reveal to you that the person who did this shouldnt have been in the service that day. Some in Burundi still have a spirit of wild beasts, he added.

But the government has denied that people are being disappeared. The spokesman for the security ministry, Pierre Nkurikiye, recently told journalists there are no such known cases, and he called on families to report allegations to police instead of airing them on social media. Government spokesman Prosper Ntahorwamiye told the AP that "if (families) really have cases, the courts are there for that.

Such attitudes leave observers worried.

Since President Ndayishimiye came to power, we have continued to document cases of enforced disappearances and torture, often implicating the military, the police or the national intelligence service. Many victims are perceived opposition members or suspected of working with armed groups, Lewis Mudge, Central Africa director at Human Rights Watch, told the AP.

He said his group since Ndayishimiyes election has documented how authorities consistently failed to investigate the dozens of dead bodies that were found, often mutilated and showing signs of execution or torture, along a river separating Burundi and Congo.

Ending such abuses should be a top priority if Ndayishimiye and Burundis government are serious about rights reforms and addressing the pervasive system of abuse that became entrenched under Nkurunzizas presidency, Mudge said.

In December, the U.N. Committee Against Torture deplored Burundis lack of cooperation in its work, saying the committee had received 14 torture complaints against the government since 2014. Asked whether any of the cases were received since Ndayishimiye took office, the committee told the AP it could not immediately disclose details.

In a recent report, the independent Initiative for Human Rights in Burundi noted the recent cases of arbitrary arrest and torture and urged the international community to pay attention.

Do not take the governments fine human rights promises at face value while it continues to torture and eliminate suspected opponents, the group said.
The New York showcase is set up as a storybook written by Kelsey Tucker, Deviates creative director, titled A Bird Trusts Its Wings. A metaphor for nontraditional creative careers, the story follows the main character who, mired in self-doubt, wakes up in an animated world to which all of her ideas have been exiled to live out the rest of their days.

Upon revisiting and interacting with them, she realizes she wants to share them with the world. If the story provides a dreamy backdrop for the showcase, the subtext of it is scrappy D.I.Y. tenacity.

There is always a lot of pressure, like: You should be here. You should be doing this, Ms. Tucker said of her decision to choose to forge a path off the well-trodden routes to fashion capitals like New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris. The showcase is really us putting our foot down and being like, We can do this from Detroit and bring it to you.

Ms. Tucker studied fashion design at Wayne State University in midtown Detroit. After an internship at Vera Wang in Los Angeles, she realized she wasnt interested in big brand work. What I learned the most is that fashion is a grind, she said. Whatever you do in this life is a grind, but you have to choose your lane.

Hers was going home and teaming up with her sister, who, after graduating from Princeton, had been involved with a ride-sharing start-up called Splt and wanted to get involved in social entrepreneurship.
Private investments in the Special Economic Zone of Duqm in Oman have increased to RO3.6 billion ($9.35 billion) to date with 431 projects in various stages of development and operation, according to a senior official.

A total of 22,200 workers are currently employed in various industrial and tourism projects under development in the SEZ, Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) was quoted as saying in an Oman Daily Observer report.

Apart from industries, the projects at the SEZ cover tourism, storage, logistics, real estate development, commercial complexes, fish and food industries, drone operation and Artificial intelligence, clean energy, green hydrogen and ammonia projects, he said.

OPAZ has signed agreements with leading crane manufacturer Liebherr for the supply of four fully automated ship-to-shore container cranes, as well as 12 rubber tyre gantry cranes at a cost of RO27.9 million for the Port of Duqm.
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Truck convoy rallies thousands in protest on Parliament Hill

Ottawa  The truck convoy self-styled as the Freedom Convoy 2022 rallied tens of thousands of people to Parliament Hill Saturday in protest against Covid mandates in Canada. Several thousand vehicles arrived in the Ottawa area with trucks paralyzing the downtown core of the capitol.

Trucks were lined up on every inch of Wellington Street fronting Parliament. Thousands were marching in the streets of downtown Ottawa chanting freedom as they held up different posters against vaccine mandates, for personal choice and against the Trudeau government. Trucks and cars that were part of the convoy continued to gridlock downtown Ottawa into Sunday and Monday with some participants saying they would not back down until health mandates are dropped across the country and freedom of choice returned while others said they will be satisfied with the truckers vaccine mandate being reversed. Some even demanded the resignation of the Trudeau government.

We are here to secure our childrens future, to free them from mandates, One trucker told The Suburban. We are not leaving until Trudeau ends the mandates or his mandate is ended, Another driver said. Many demonstrators expressed their sentiments, calling the demonstration the beginning of the end of the restrictions while many others behaved as though the end of the pandemic had already arrived, entering local eateries, hotels and public transit unmasked.

We will not back down, because today we, the people, will take back our country, one spokesperson for the demonstration could be heard declaring over a loadspeaker. The comment was met with a loud cheering by the crowd within earshot who chanted Freedom and Liberte in response.

Drivers who parked their trucks or vehicles parked near Parliament, bunked on-site in their vehicles throughout the nights whether they intended to or not. As more trucks and vehicles continued to pour into the city center throughout the day and night Saturday, those who arrived early had no exit point. I will stay for as long as it takes to end the mandates, another, trucker told The Suburban when asked how he felt about being trapped in the demonstration. We dont have a timeline, we have a goal and we intend to see it through.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had taken his family to another location while isolating after one of his children tested positive for COVID-19. One demonstrator said that,...Trudeaus comment that we are a fringe was hurtful and dishonest since at the start of the pandemic he himself asked Canadians to thank a trucker for making our daily lives possible. So now that things are easier those who disagree with him are only a fringe? Hypocrite!

Many demonstrators were entering local eateries and hotels to warm up from the bitter cold weather. Over one hundred people were seen warming up in a downtown Tim Hortons at the same time, the majority not wearing face coverings, with dozens more waiting outdoors. Police officers were directing the convoy at nearly every corner of the downtown core.

Truck drivers made their way to Ottawa from different locations all week including Quebec and Atlantic Canada, southern Ontario and western Canada. Squads of Ontario Provincial Police were patrolling the perimeter of the protest to ensure order helping Ottawa Police together with elements from police departments from as far south as Toronto.

Police reported the protest was peaceful with no violent incidents and no tickets issued to anyone. There were several unfortunate incidents however including trucks parked on the Vimy Ridge War Memorial and the desecration of the Terry Fox statue with posters and upside down Canadian flags. Those were quickly cleared out by authorities but that didnt stop others from carrying posters equating vaccines and QR codes with Nazi swastikas and carrying banners and flags with the words F... Trudeau.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/mother-drops-three-year-old-daughter-into-bear-enclosure-at-uzbekistan-zoo-in-shocking-cctv-footage-1092704617.html

Mother Drops Three-Year-Old Daughter Into Bear Enclosure at Uzbekistan Zoo in Shocking CCTV Footage

Mother Drops Three-Year-Old Daughter Into Bear Enclosure at Uzbekistan Zoo in Shocking CCTV Footage

While the three-year-old girl was saved in the nick of time by zookeepers, she suffered a concussion, cuts to her head, and bruising due to the fall. Her... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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A shocking video of a mother dropping her three-year-old daughter into a bear enclosure at a zoo in Uzbekistan's capital city Tashkent has emerged online.In the CCTV footage of the incident, the mother can be seen holding her daughter in her arms over the railings. Suddenly, she drops the child into a trench under the fence, horrifying onlookers who could only watch helplessly from the other side.The brown bear kept in the enclosure ran towards the girl and started sniffing her before retreating.Within a few minutes, the zookeepers came to the child's rescue and managed to take her out, the video shows. Shocked by the incident, the zoo spokesperson later said that the little girl had been diagnosed with a concussion, caused by her falling from a height of five meters, as well as an open wound on her head. It is still unclear as to why the young woman threw the little girl into the bear's enclosure.A criminal case has been initiated against the woman under the article "attempted murder", which provides for a minimum of 15 years in prison.

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https://sputniknews.com/20220203/from-handsome-to-disgusting-danes-divided-over-controversial-statue-of-breastfeeding-man-1092705860.html

From 'Handsome' to 'Disgusting': Danes Divided Over Controversial Statue of Breastfeeding Man

From 'Handsome' to 'Disgusting': Danes Divided Over Controversial Statue of Breastfeeding Man

The 3.5-metre-high statue Agape, the Greek word for the highest form of love, depicts a naked man who has classic male features such as broad shoulders... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

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A statue of a breastfeeding man inaugurated in the foyer of the Gender Museum in the Danish city of Aarhus has stirred debate among the Danish public.The 3.5-metre high statue shows a naked man with long hair and a beard. In addition to the classic physical male characteristics such as broad shoulders, narrow hips and a penis, the sculpture is also equipped with female breasts.Named Agape, the Greek word for the highest form of love (as opposed to eros, or erotic love, and philia, or brotherly love), the statue was designed using 3D scans of the artist's own body and that of his girlfriend.The goal of the statue, according to artist Aske Jonatan Kreilgaard, is to question what the man should be and be able to do.According to Kreilgaard, the sculpture hadn't been made with provocation in mind. However, he welcomes the ensuing conversation.I'm glad it's starting to talk about these things. I think it's exciting to see what it creates of emotions, and we don't necessarily have to agree, Aske Jonatan Kreilgaard told TV2.According to the museum inspector at the Gender Museum, Julie Rokkjr Birch, Agape provides an apt occasion for dispute about the male gender.On the museum's Facebook page, the statue sparked polarising reactions ranging from admiration to aversion. Agape has been called everything from handsome to disgusting.Journalist Eva Selsing ventured in her opinion piece in the Berlingske newspaper that the statue was left-wing radical and feminist propaganda in an attempt to dismantle the very notion of gender.According to Mathias Kryger, an art critic at Politiken newspaper, gender is an explosive topic that sets minds on fire, even when it comes to art. Kryger himself argued that the sculpture doesn't add anything groundbreaking to the debate about gender roles.It seems to be an incredibly banal attempt to say something about gender and care based on some very old and long ago challenged notions about both gender roles, gender expression and biology, Kryger told TV2.

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Hanoi Temple of Literature attract visitors despite closure

The Temple of Literature in Hanoi has attracted lots of visitors coming to pray for good academic results despite being closed for Covid-19 prevention.









On the third day of the Lunar New Year, many visitors, especially young people were seen gathering at the site.







People placed offerings and sent prayers from outside of closed gates.







Students came to seek blessings for a good academic year.







Many students queued up to get blessed with calligraphy in red or yellow do paper.







Calligraphy, mostly Chinese letters symbolising what people wish in their lives, like good health, good studies, happiness and wealth, are usually much sought after during Lunar New Year Festival.







A calligrapher, Luu Duc Hanh, was busy with lots of orders.







A student, Yen Nhi, said that she asked for some calligraphy to hope for good luck in her coming university entrance exam.







The Temple of Literature, built in 1070, is Vietnam's first university.
Lincoln Holding Group has announced plans for expansion of its La Serre brand, a Parisian style all-day dining Boulangerie, to more than 30 locations across the globe this year.

La Serre in Dubai is one of the region's most treasured eateries. From its Parisian vibes to its award-winning French cuisine, the boulevard hot spot buzzes with guests from opening to closing.

The team at Lincoln Holding Group have already signed 30 locations for La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie in 2022, with plans to expand further. These will include sites in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Kingdom and France, including a prominent spot in Saint Tropez.

The team is ready to ensure the La Serre experience is of the highest quality, eager to cater to loyal and new guests alike, it said.

At La Serre, we focus on every detail. We don't stay static. We keep on moving and excelling. It's hard work and can be bittersweet. We go out into the market, see who is the best and try to beat them. I believe our success is not only about the product. It goes beyond - from the ambience to the music, the walls, the flooring and the tables. Then there are the people. You can't operate food and beverage without heart. They are the dynamo, the engine that runs the business and our industry, says Ralph Homer, the CEO and Founder of Lincoln Holding Group.

As if walking into a bistro and boulangerie in the heart of Paris, La Serre is famed for its modern ambience steeped in tradition. The moment guests arrive at a La Serre anywhere in the world, they will be welcomed in French and offered an attentive service that makes them feel at home. Elegant furnishings and sun-soaked terraces are only some of the features guests can expect, said the statement.

La Serre, which means the glasshouse, also has the team scouting locations that reflect this, ensuring each site lives up to and even exceeds the original spot on Dubais famed boulevard.

We believe in quality. It took us over a year to ensure we only use organic and that everything from the free-range eggs we use to the flour and the chocolate is the best, explains Homer. - TradeArabia News Service
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba thanked the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Sweden, and Switzerland for establishing a fund to mitigate Russia's destabilizing influence in the southern and eastern regions of Ukraine.

Grateful to Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, and USA for establishing the Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine, a UK-led multi-year and multi-donor programme worth up to 35m, Kuleba posted on Twitter.

The minister called the establishment of the Fund timely support for Ukraines resilience and communities in our southern and eastern regions.

The Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine is a joint initiative of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and international partners: Great Britain, Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States. The Fund initially has a budget of GBP 35 million (USD 47 million) to implement the first projects.

This year, the Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine will finance four projects, including thermal modernization of residential buildings in Donetsk, Luhansk, and Kherson regions.

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SEOUL, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's top diplomat in phone talks with his Japanese counterpart on Thursday protested against Japan's bid to put a war-linked mine in the UNESCO heritage list, renewing diplomatic rows between Seoul and Tokyo over historical issues.

South Korean Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong held phone talks with his Japanese counterpart Yoshimasa Hayashi, expressing deep disappointment with and protesting against Japan's push to nominate the controversial Sado mine for the UNESCO World Heritage list, according to Seoul's foreign ministry.

Chung said the correct perception over history is the basis for the future-oriented relations between South Korea and Japan, noting that the Sado mine represents the painful history relevant to wartime forced labor of Koreans during the 1910-1945 Japanese colonization of the Korean Peninsula.

South Korean historians say thousands of Koreans were forced by Imperial Japan into heavy labor for the gold and silver mines on Sado Island, which were turned into facilities to produce war-related materials during World War II. The mine was shut down in 1989.

The Japanese government submitted the letter of recommendation for the mine to be listed in the UNESCO heritage earlier this week.

Chung urged Japan to fulfill its promise to install an information center on the forced labor of Koreans at its existing UNESCO heritage sites, including Hashima Island.

The South Korean foreign minister also called on Japan to take more active measures over historical issues, including the wartime forced labor and the sexual slavery of Korean women during the colonization, to seek solutions that can be accepted by the victims. 
New Delhi [India], February 3 (ANI/SRV): When it comes to jeans, there are plenty of brands to choose from with varying styles and fits. The piece of clothing has become more diverse with numerous varieties. Here are the different jeans brands to suit the needs of every man. Out of the top 10 jeans brand in India, Blacktree is one of the fastest-growing brands in that segment and continues to rise in the rankings. BlackTree is a leading apparel brand established in the Patna city of Bihar and the products come in different fits such as Slim Fit, Skinny fit, relaxed, regular and carrot fit. Further, customers also get choices in terms of styles such as boot cut, straight, tapered, and fits over boot styles. Myblacktree India Pvt Ltd is an Indian DTC brand that mainly focuses on women's wear and menswear item's along with offering accessories, shoes, bags, and other fashion items. Their vision is to provide quality products at an affordable price. Additionally, BlackTree jeans are not very expensive. Customers can get a pair for as low as Rs. 1,499 BlackTree from the new Indigo collection that uses foam technology to reduce the water for dyeing. Price Range: Rs. 1499 - 5499 Types: Jogger, Relaxed, Skinny, Slim, Straight, Tapered Size: 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34,36, 38, 40 Top Styles of the brand - BT001 Jeans, BT003 Jeans, BT005 Jeans, and BT008 jeans Reviving Denim Industry Indian mills are expected to see a 10-15% growth in the next few years. India has an annual installed capacity of around 1,600 million metres for denim fabrics which is the second-largest in the world after China. At present, the total number of denim fabric mills operating in the country are believed to be over 50 (in the organised segment) which is 60 per cent more than what the number was 10 years ago. Of the total capacity, the domestic consumption of Indian denim fabric is approximately 850-900 million metres, which includes domestic jeans production as also for exports, while remaining fabrics get exported to countries like Bangladesh, Colombia, Venezuela, Egypt and Sri Lanka among others. As per the Ministry of Commerce & Industry of India, denim fabric exports during the period of Jan.-Oct. '21 was valued at USD 190.78 million, noting around 88.45 per cent Y-o-Y growth. Denim Brand owners' positive reception to increased business Agreeing with the buzz that there is ample growth opportunities in the Indian denim industry, Kundan Kumar, Managing Director, Myblacktree India Pvt.Ltd, said, "There are multiple factors behind a surge in demand, the major being that there were no inventories left with anyone across the supply chain, so demand is piling up. After a lull, the economy is growing because money is back in the market, and revenge buying is also happening, resulting in booked capacities in mills. The versatility of denim is also a reason that's creating demand." Further, he also shared that there is an uptick for premium denim products and customers are willingly paying the price for it. India's denim market growth The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 14.5 per cent and reach Rs 39,651 crore by 2022, and Rs 77,999 crore market by 2026. The men's denim segment comprises 84 per cent of the market while the women's denim segment and kids' denim segment comprise 10 per cent and 6 per cent respectively. This story is provided by SRV. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/SRV)
A border marker is shown just outside of Emerson, Man. on Jan. 20, 2022. Investigators with Manitoba RCMP are in Toronto tracking tips and information related to the freezing deaths of a family of four Indian migrants whose bodies were found last month near the Canada-U. S. border. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods
This Week in Review

A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more.
https://sputniknews.com/20220203/sweden-pledges-ukraine-unwavering-solidarity-worth-5-million-amid-russia-nato-standoff-1092707834.html

Sweden Pledges Ukraine 'Unwavering Solidarity' Worth $5 Million Amid Russia-NATO Standoff

Sweden Pledges Ukraine 'Unwavering Solidarity' Worth $5 Million Amid Russia-NATO Standoff

Ukraine is already the largest recipient of Sweden's reform support to Eastern Europe, and gets approximately SEK 240 million ($26 million) annually. The new... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T07:11+0000

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2022-02-03T07:11+0000

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Sweden has joined the recently created Partnership Fund for Resilient Ukraine and has pledged to contribute SEK 50 million ($5.4 million) over the next three years, the government said in a press release.In the words of Swedish Development Aid Minister Matilda Ernkrans, the fund, launched together with the UK, Canada, Switzerland and the US, is aimed at bolstering Ukraine against Russian aggression, which is how the West generally sees Russia-Ukraine relations following the 2014 Western-backed coup that prompted Crimea to overwhelmingly vote for re-unification with Russia and drove two regions of eastern Ukraine to break away. In recent months, the aggression narrative has been reinforced by Russia's movement of troops within its own borders, which the West portrays as proof of imminent invasion.Ernkrans argued that the fund will contribute to an improvement in the delivery of community services, increased dialogue and inclusive economic development. The contribution also indicates that Sweden supports Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, according to Ernkrans.Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde reiterated the claim of Russian aggression since 2014 and described the aid as Sweden showing unwavering solidarity and extensive support for Ukraine in a troubled situation.Ukraine is already the largest recipient of Sweden's reform support to Eastern Europe, and is given approximately SEK 240 million ($26 million) annually.Earlier, Denmark said it was ready to support Ukraine with arms and military gear in the event of escalation and has contributed a frigate to the combined NATO force in the Baltic Sea as well as fighter jets to the air police missions over the Baltic States, presenting both steps as surveillance, deterrence, and sending a signal to Russia. Furthermore, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also threatened Russia with sanctions of unprecedented dimensions.These steps and promised help to Ukraine come amid the exchange of letters between the US, NATO and Russia on security proposals set forth by Moscow in a bid to ease the current tensions. Among other things, Washington and NATO were asked to abandon plans for NATO's eastward expansion, particularly plans to incorporate Ukraine or any other former Soviet republic (aside from the Baltic countries, which are members) into the alliance. While both the US and NATO insisted on the alliance's open doors policy, Moscow replied that they failed to adequately address its legitimate security concerns.Throughout most of 2021 and up to the present day, Western politicians and media have blatantly accused Russia of a military build-up near Ukraine's borders in preparation for an imminent invasion and threatened with far-reaching sanctions. Moscow has brushed aside all the allegations, instead accusing the West of artificially blowing up tensions and hostilities.

https://sputniknews.com/20220131/denmark-not-ruling-out-military-support-to-ukraine-after-granting-millions-in-aid-1092629380.html

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https://sputniknews.com/20220203/state-department-confirms-authenticity-of-leaked-us-response-to-russian-security-proposals-1092708032.html

State Department Confirms Authenticity of Leaked US Response to Russian Security Proposals

State Department Confirms Authenticity of Leaked US Response to Russian Security Proposals

On Wednesday, Spanish newspaper El Pais leaked a document that the United States and NATO sent to Russia in response to its security proposals. Moscow refused... 03.02.2022, Sputnik International

2022-02-03T07:18+0000

2022-02-03T07:18+0000

2022-02-03T07:18+0000

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The US State Department confirmed that the documents containing Washington's responses to Russian security proposals and published on Wednesday by El Pais are authentic.Price underlined that Washington did not make the contents of the document public, but "now it confirms to the entire world what we are saying [that] if Russia wants to negotiate a solution, this document makes clear that there is a part to do so".The authenticity of the document was also confirmed by Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby. Shortly after the document was leaked, the Kremlin also said it did not publish it, recommending that those questioning who could have been behind the leak avoid guessing.The Spanish newspaper did not specify how it had obtained the document.According to El Pais, the responses to the proposals included the US refraining from an additional permanent deployment of strike and nuclear weapons in Eastern Europe. Additionally, the document said that Washington is ready to consider the possibility of signing a document with Russia on security issues of mutual interest. Moscow's proposals were deemed to be the possible "subject of a constructive dialogue" between Russia, the US and NATO, according to the leaked document.However, both the US and NATO rejected Russia's demand that Ukraine be banned from joining NATO. Washington also declined Moscow's request to enter into a bilateral agreement on security in Europe.Eastern European Security RowThe US response to Russia's security proposals was not met with a lot of enthusiasm in Moscow, according to Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov, because Washington decided to focus on "important, but basically secondary issues".Among the main Russian demands was obtaining written legal guarantees from the US and NATO that the latter will not expand eastwards and/or deploy offensive weapons in the countries neighbouring Russia - Ukraine in particular.President Vladimir Putin, along with many other top Russian diplomatic officials, has underlined that the demand for written guarantees stems from a lack of trust in the verbal assurances of the Western countries.The security proposals, however, were met with a lot of criticism in the West, with NATO particularly underlining that every country, including Ukraine, has a freedom to choose defence alliances it wishes to join. In response, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov pointed at the principle of the indivisibility of security in Europe, requesting that the alliance explain its understanding of this principle and how it aligns with the freedom to choose defence blocs.The heated discussion on European security is taking place amid simmering tensions around Ukraine, with the Western countries continuing to hype allegations that Russia is about to "invade" the neighbouring country and "amassing troops" on the border with Ukraine. Moscow has repeatedly denied any plans to threaten Kiev.

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FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii  The Department of Justice has appealed an emergency order issued last month by Hawaii requiring the Navy to drain all fuel from a huge underground storage facility, arguing that state law does not authorize such a sweeping edict.

The 82-page appeal, filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court, District of Hawaii, largely reiterates arguments the Navy made last month in response to the final order subsequently issued by the Hawaii Department of Health.

The appeal contends the Health Department overstepped its authority under state law in ordering the roughly 150 million gallons of fuel to be removed.

The World War II-era underground fuel facility, which is near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, is the source of jet fuel that has contaminated one of three wells the Navy uses for its water distribution system.

Thousands of residents at two dozen military housing areas near Pearl Harbor have been displaced from their homes after complaints surfaced over Thanksgiving weekend of foul-smelling water with an oily sheen.

Navy officials have said the well contamination likely came from fuel spills in May and November last year. The service is in the process of flushing out the contaminated well, distribution system and pipes in every home affected.

The statute that the Health Department based its order upon was not written to address long-term issues, which are the subject of other Hawaii statutes, the appeal said. And the swift and truncated nature of the hearing [the Health Department] provided for review of the Emergency Order was inadequate to evaluate the entire Red Hill facility.

The appeal argues that the appropriate means for debating and deciding the fate of the facility is in the permitting process.

Whether the entire facility is built and operated in a manner that protects human health and the environment is the subject of ongoing permitting proceedings following [the Health Departments] proposal to issue a permit for the underground storage tanks in June 2021, the appeal states.

And the actions necessary to manage long-term risk for the entire facility are also the subject of the pre-existing administrative agreement. Though the Navy shares [the Health Departments] commitment to improving Red Hill and securing the health and safety of Hawaiian citizens and the environment, the Final Order here was not a lawful means for achieving these ends.

The Department of Defenses announcement Monday that it would appeal the emergency order outraged many Hawaiians.

Members of the Oahu Water Protectors hosted a news conference Wednesday outside the gate leading to Pacific Fleet headquarters. Some held up signs reading No trust Navy, Our water, our land, and Navy lies.

Despite numerous public statements to the contrary, the US Navy never had any intention of defueling the Red Hill tanks  the group said in a Wednesday news release.

Appealing the emergency order is a grave and unforced error that undermines public trust, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said in an email to his Hawaii constituents Wednesday.

Fortunately, we have civilian oversight of the military, and this inexplicable and maddening resistance to the defuel order will not succeed, Schatz wrote. They will lose in court, and they will lose in Congress.

The U.S. government hopes to resolve issues with the state of Hawaii regarding the final order through negotiation, the Justice Department said in a statement emailed to Stars and Stripes.

The appeal was filed out of an abundance of caution to satisfy the 30-day statute of limitations that Hawaii law imposes on judicial review of such orders, the statement said.

There is ongoing, good-faith and senior level engagement at the Department of Defense, the Navy, and the Department of Justice towards a negotiated resolution that protects human health and the environment, as well as our national security, the statement said.
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The RAF today scrambled Typhoon fighters to intercept two more long-range Russian bombers approaching UK airspace, just a day after jets escorted four others away from the coast of Scotland.

The Typhoons were launched from RAF Lossiemouth in Moray, Scotland, after two Russian Tu-95 Bear F aircraft approached the UK's airspace.

The fighter jets, supported by a Voyager air-to-air refuelling tanker from RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, intercepted the Russian aircraft before they could reach the 'UK area of interest' and escorted the bombers off the coast of Scotland, a spokesman said.

The news comes after RAF jets responded to four Russian strategic bombers approaching the UK's 'area of interest' yesterday, at points coming within 100 miles of UK airspace, making it six bombers in two days to be intercepted by British forces.

A spokesman said: 'Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighters based at RAF Lossiemouth supported by a Voyager from RAF Brize Norton were scrambled today against aircraft approaching the UK area of interest. Subsequently we intercepted and escorted two RussianTu-95 Bear F aircraft.'



Vladimir Putin is continuing to ratchet up the pressure on Ukraine, massing nuclear-capable missiles and 30,000 troops in Belarus, according to NATO, amid fears of a huge refugee crisis if Ukraine invasion goes ahead.

A dramatic video yesterday revealed the moment RAF Typhoon fighter jets escorted a quartet of Russian aircraft off the coast of Scotland after they headed towards UK airspace over the North Sea.

The Typhoons were scrambled from Lossiemouth in Moray after two Russian Tu-95 Bear H bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons and two maritime patrol Tu-142 Bear F aircraft were tracked by the RAF near the 'UK's area of interest' over the North Sea.

The Tu-95s had flown from Engels air base in Saratov region, with the Tu-142 flying from Kipelovo air base in Vologda region.

After a mid-air standoff of several minutes yesterday afternoon they were escorted away without entering UK airspace  with the incident coming just hours before Russian president Vladimir Putin and Boris Johnson spoke.

The Russian footage highlights a mission that came soon after Mr Johnson's return from a visit to Kyiv on Tuesday and before he warned the Kremlin leader yesterday that an attack on Ukraine would be a 'tragic miscalculation'.

The 'area of interest' is further from the British Isles and includes international airspace, but the UK is responsible for policing it and providing air traffic control services. While such operations are not unusual, the timing of the incident on the day that the Prime Minister and Mr Putin spoke in a phone call gave it additional significance.

As tensions continued to mount with more than 100,000 Russian troops now massed on the border with Ukraine:

Jens Stoltenberg, NATO general secretary, said today that Russia has already deployed thousands of troops;

Included Iskander missiles that can be tipped with nukes, fighter jets, and S-400 anti-aircraft systems;

Intel suggests that Putin will grow that force to 30,000 troops within the coming days, Stoltenberg added;

Particular concern over troops stationed in Belarus because it gives them the shortest route to attack Kiev;

Ministers were warned Britain faces a wave of Russian cyber-attacks over of its staunch support for Ukraine;

Mr Johnson expressed his 'deep concern' about Russian aggression during his call with President Putin;

Mr Putin said after the conversation that the West was giving no ground on Russia's security concerns.

US President Joe Biden unveiled a plan to send thousands more troops and weapons to the region;

Russia has built up tanks, artillery, helicopters, warplanes and aircraft near the Ukraine border.

Russian footage shows the RAF escorting two Russian Tu-95 Bear H strategic bombers off the coast of Scotland yesterday

The Russian footage featured this video from inside the cockpit of the one of the four Bear aircraft involved yesterday

Two Russian Tu-95 Bear H bombers and two maritime patrol Tu-142 Bear F aircraft were tracked by the RAF yesterday

The video revealed the moment RAF Typhoon fighter jets escorted a quartet of Russian aircraft off the coast of Scotland

A map showing UK Tornados and a Voyager refuelling aircraft during the interception mission yesterday

Multiple Typhoons from RAF Lossiemouth in Moray were involved in the mission off the coast of Scotland yesterday

Russian tanks take part in combat drills in Belarus on Wednesday, ahead of much larger drills set to take place next week

RAF Eurofighter Typhoon Crew: 1/2 Length: 52 ft Wingspan: 35 ft Empty weight: 24,251 lb Gross weight: 35,274 lb Max takeoff weight: 51,809 lb Powerplant: 2 x Eurojet EJ200 afterburning turbofan engines Max speed: 1,320 mph Range: 1,800 miles Combat range: 863 miles Service ceiling: 65,000 ft Armaments: Guns: 1 x 27 mm Mauser BK-27 revolver cannon with 150 rounds Hardpoints: Total of 13, 8 x under-wing; and 5 x under-fuselage pylon stations; holding in excess of 19,800 lb of payload. Advertisement

An RAF spokesman told MailOnline last night: 'Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighters based at RAF Lossiemouth supported by a Voyager from RAF Brize Norton were scrambled against unidentified aircraft approaching the UK area of interest.

'Subsequently we intercepted and escorted four Russian Bear aircraft.'

The Tu-95 is the only propeller-powered strategic bomber still in operational use today, and the plane first flew 70 years ago.

A Russian report said: 'In the course of the flight, the crews of Tu-95 aircraft practiced aerial refuelling. The flight time was about 15 hours.

'At some stages of the route, the Russian strategic missile carriers were accompanied by Eurofighter Typhoon fighters of the British Air Force.'

In November last year, jets were launched in response to Russian TU-160 Blackjack strategic bombers.

Officials said at the time that the fighters escorted the Russian aircraft out of the area of interest and that the bombers did not enter UK airspace.

In another dramatic episode, a Royal Navy warship continued its monitoring mission yesterday as a pair of Russian naval vessels transited through the English Channel.

HMS Argyle, a Type 23 frigate, assumed responsibility for escorting the Soobrazitelniy and the Stoykiy from the French Navy earlier this week. The Ministry of Defence described the move as a 'normal response'.

Jens Stoltenberg, NATO general secretary, today his warning about the appearance of more troops near Ukraine's borders.

Western experts are particularly fearful of troops stationed in Belarus because it gives them the shortest route to attack Kiev, Ukraine's capital - with some predicting that military drills taking place in the coming days could be used as cover for an attack.

Russian bomber and anti-sub aircraft that first entered service during the Cold War Tu-95 Bear H strategic bomber The aircraft first entered service with the Soviet Union's air force in 1956 and become one of the icons of the Cold War thanks to its regular use in maritime surveillance. It has the capability to carry nuclear bombs. Tu-95 Specifications - Crew: 67 Length: 151ft 7in Wingspan: 164ft 4in Gross weight: 376,990lb Powerplant: 4  Kuznetsov NK-12 turboprop engines 15,000 PS (15,000 hp; 11,000 kW) Maximum speed: 575 mph Range: 9,300m Tu-142 Bear F anti-submarine warfare aircraft The aircraft was developed during the Cold War as a response to America's new UGM-27 Polaris submarine-launched ballistic missile system, which had a range of more than a thousand miles. Since then it has mainly been used for surveillance missions. Tu-142 Specifications - Crew: 1113 Length:174ft 2in Wingspan: 164ft 1in Powerplant: 4  Kuznetsov NK-12MP turboprop engines, 11,033 kW (14,795 shp) Maximum speed: 575mph Combat range: 4,000m Advertisement

Stoltenberg issued his warning as the Norwegian Refugee Council predicted a huge humanitarian crisis if violence breaks out across the region.

'The lives and safety of millions of people in eastern Ukraine hang in the balance as we wait for a political breakthrough to the current impasse,' Jan Egeland, head of the council, said in a statement after visiting Ukraine.

'We must not underestimate the human suffering of renewed conflict - it would result in increased civilian casualties, massive displacement and humanitarian needs.'

Egeland said fighting in the eastern Donbass region has already displaced some 850,000 and left 3million reliant on humanitarian aid.

And he predicted another 2million people would be made homeless if Russia were to attack other eastern regions - not including the possibility of an attack from Belarus.

Amid the East-West standoff, Britain on Thursday launched fighter jets against aircraft approaching its area of interest, a day after the Royal Air Force intercepted and escorted away four Russian bomber in a similar operation.

'Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighters from RAF Lossiemouth, supported by a Voyager Tanker from RAF Brize Norton, have been launched against aircraft approaching the UK area of interest,' an RAF spokesman said.

While the identity of the approaching aircraft was not immediately confirmed, it comes just a day after RAF jets were sent to escort two Russian Cold War-era Tu-95 Bear H and two Tu-142 Bear Fs.

The Quick Reaction Force 'intercepted and escorted' the four Russian aircraft and escorted them away from UK airspace, the RAF said. The Russian bombers did not enter UK sovereign airspace.

An RAF spokesman told MailOnline today: 'Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighters based at RAF Lossiemouth supported by a Voyager from RAF Brize Norton were scrambled today against unidentified aircraft approaching the UK area of interest. Subsequently we intercepted and escorted four Russian Bear aircraft.'

Analysts have warned for weeks that Russia is in the process of significantly expanding its arsenal in Belarus, which comes after dictator Lukashenko pivoted into a close alliance with Russia after relations with the EU dramatically collapsed.

The strongman leader, often called Europe's last dictator, hit out at the EU after it criticised his most-recent election 'win' in 2020 which was widely viewed as rigged - then cut almost all ties after he hijacked a Ryanair plane to arrest a journalist.

Since then, Lukashenko has drawn markedly close to Russia - backing Putin's menacing of Ukraine, having been largely dismissive of Putin's expansionism when he annexed Crimea in 2014.

In recent weeks, Lukashenko has offered Putin use of a Belarussian training base near Poland and Lithuania - both NATO states - the use of four airbases, a missile base, and storage sites, and has offered to host Russian nuclear weapons.

The pair will also hold a major military drill on Ukraine's border to test the combat readiness of their troops in the coming days.

Russia is moving tens of thousands of troops into Belarus backed by tanks, fighters, anti-aircraft systems and nuclear-capable missiles, NATO says (pictured, Russian tanks in Belarus)

Russian armoured personnel carriers take part in drills in Belarus on Wednesday, amid fears the exercises could provide cover for an invasion

A map showing where Putin's forces have assembled on Ukraine's borders, the military options Putin might be considering, and key targets he would likely go after in the event he chooses to invade - something the US continues to war could be just weeks away from happening

Russian defence minister Sergey Shoigu (left) meets with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko (right) and Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin (centre) today

Russian military footage shows Iskander missile launchers taking part in drills in western Russia, close to the border with Ukraine

Russian Iskander missiles are pictured on a military base in western Belarus, close to the border with Ukraine, on January 30

U.S. Army soldiers from the 18th Airborne Division walk out to a C-17 aircraft as they deploy to Europe on Thursday from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, US

Don't make a tragic mistake, Boris warns Putin in tense phone call Boris Johnson warned Vladimir Putin that an invasion of Ukraine would be a 'tragic miscalculation' during a phone call between the two leaders yesterday. The Prime Minister expressed his 'deep concern' about Russian aggression in a call that had been delayed because of the Partygate allegations. The tense conversation came as US President Joe Biden unveiled a plan to send thousands more troops and weapons to the region. The call with Mr Putin  which lasted between four or five minutes  follows Mr Johnson's diplomatic trip to Ukraine on Tuesday. He held a joint press conference with its president, Volodymyr Zelensky, in which he vowed to unleash immediate sanctions 'the moment the first Russian toe cap' crosses into Ukraine. More than 100,000 Russian troops are massed on the country's border, with many positioned on Ukraine's northern border in Belarus, Russia's ally. Downing Street said of yesterday's call: 'The Prime Minister expressed his deep concern about Russia's current hostile activity on the Ukrainian border. He emphasised the need to find a way forward which respects both Ukraine's territorial integrity and right to self-defence. The Prime Minister stressed that any further Russian incursion into Ukrainian territory would be a tragic miscalculation.' A spokesman said Mr Johnson told Mr Putin that Ukraine had the right to join Nato, and emphasised that the alliance was defensive. She added: 'The leaders agreed that aggravation was in no-one's interest. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy, and the need to include Ukraine in talks.' President Putin said after the conversation that the West was giving no ground on Russia's security concerns. Advertisement

Russia has massed some 130,000 troops backed by tanks and artillery on Ukraine's border, a build-up that began in November last year but continues to grow as Washington warns invasion could be 'imminent'.

High-level diplomacy is now underway after the Kremlin has issued a list of security demands to NATO and the US, including that Ukraine be banned from the alliance and all forces be withdrawn from ex-Soviet states.

Most of Moscow's demands have been dismissed as non-starters, but Western allies have proposed renegotiating missile agreements, increasing the transparency of military drills, and giving Russian inspectors access to NATO bases as a compromise.

But they also warned Putin that failure to withdraw his troops from Ukraine's border will result in NATO sending extra troops to the region to counter-balance them, a move that Biden made good on as he deployed an extra 2,000 troops to Europe.

Around 1,700 of those will be heading to Poland, NATO's closest deployment to eastern Europe, while 300 will go to Germany to join command positions there.

Another 1,000 troops already in Europe will be repositioned to Romania, which borders the Black Sea where one of Russia's biggest fleets is positioned.

Putin and his inner circle are still mulling over NATO and America's diplomatic proposals, but in public have sharply rebuked Western allies for ignoring their concerns. Russia has also shown no signs of withdrawing forces from near Ukraine.

On Thursday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko described Biden's decision to deploy additional troops as a 'destructive' and an 'unjustified' step.

He added that it would 'delight' the Ukrainian authorities, who would continue sabotaging ceasefire agreements aimed at ending fighting in the east of the country 'with impunity'.

Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, also hit out at the troop movements on Thursday, accusing the US of escalating tensions in the region.

'We are constantly urging our American partners to stop escalating tensions on the European continent,' Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

'Unfortunately, Americans are continuing to do it,' he said. 'Obviously, these are not the steps aimed at de-escalating tensions, on the contrary, these are actions that lead to an increase in tensions.'

US troops deploy for Europe from Pope Army Airfield at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 3

US service members wait at the Pope Army Airfield before deploying to Europe at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 3

A US service members writes a letter while waiting at the Pope Army Airfield before deploying to Europe at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 3

US troops deploy for Europe from Pope Army Airfield at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 3

US service members wait at the Pope Army Airfield before deploying to Europe at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on Thursday

Boris Johnson spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin in a tense phone call yesterday and later issued this tweet

A Ukrainian marine border guard walks on the deck of a boat after a patrol yesterday near Mariupol in Donetsk, Ukraine

Ukrainian border guards patrol the border with Russia yesterday not far from Hoptivka village in Kharkiv region, Ukraine

A photograph released by the Russians on Tuesday shows a sniper firing during a military exercise in Nizhny Novgorod

Therefore, he added, Russia's concerns over NATO's eastward expansion and US troop deployment are 'absolutely clear, absolutely justified.'

'Any measures taken by Russia to ensure its own security and interests are also within reason,' the Kremlin spokesman added.

Amid the standoff, Boris Johnson finally spoke with Putin over the phone late Thursday to warn him that any invasion of Ukraine would be a 'tragic miscalculation'.

Having abandoned a call earlier in the week to deal with the fallout of the 'Partygate' scandal, Mr Johnson told Putin he is 'deeply concerned' about Russian aggression in eastern Europe and that the UK will not back down over Ukraine's right to join NATO.

Put is said to have dug his heels in during the call, giving no indication that he plans to withdraw forces from the region.

A Kremlin summary of the call simply said: 'The unwillingness of NATO to adequately respond to the well-founded Russian concerns was noted.'

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba again played down fears of a Russian attack in a call with reporters but said that if Russia makes moves that could signal an imminent invasion Ukraine would react as necessary.

A Ukrainian serviceman walks through the trenches a frontline position near the village of Sokolniki, Slavyanoserbsk District in Ukraine

A serviceman of the People's Militia of the Lugansk People's Republic (LPR) is seen at a frontline position near the village of Sokolniki, Slavyanoserbsk District

A serviceman of the People's Militia of the Lugansk People's Republic (LPR) is seen at a frontline position near the village of Sokolniki, Slavyanoserbsk District, in Ukraine

US troops deploy for Europe from Pope Army Airfield at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 3

US service members receive supplies as they wait at the Pope Army Airfield before deploying to Europe at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 3

Snipers move during a military exercise in the Nizhny Novgorod Region in this image issued by the Russians on Tuesday

The Russians released this image yesterday of Russian T-72B3 tanks firing during military drills at Golovenki near Moscow
Noel Gallagher will perform at the Glastonbury Festival when it opens in June, 18 years after his last live appearance at the event with Oasis.

The musician, 54, is expected to play the Pyramid Stage under his High Flying Birds solo moniker on Saturday, June 25 as the annual summer spectacle returns following a two-year delay caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

He will share the bill with American band Haim for what is expected to be a memorable return to Somerset's Worthy Farm, with his last appearance coming in 2004 with Brit Pop architects Oasis.

The set will also follow Gallagher's high-profile condemnation of the decision to integrate mainstream artists such as Adele, Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue and Jay-Z with Glastonbury's traditionally leftfield roster of performers.

On the bill: Noel Gallagher will perform at the Glastonbury Festival when it returns in June, 18 years after his last live appearance at the event with Oasis

A source told The Sun: 'Noel has never played a music gig at Glastonbury outside of Oasis who performed twice there. This will be a monumental moment for him and it will be an incredible moment for the festival.

'He is currently pencilled on the list for the line-up for the Pyramid Stage on the Saturday of Glastonbury and will perform just before the headliner.

'Haim, who are best pals with Taylor Swift, are also scheduled to be on just before him. They played a live streamed set from Worthy Farm last year and were a huge hit.'

Old times: Gallagher last performed at the event with his former band Oasis in 2004 (pictured)

Gallagher performed at Glastonbury three times - the first coming in June 1994, when the then little known Oasis performed a short eight track set on the NME Stage.

They would return as the Pyramid Stage headline act for Glastonbury's 25th anniversary the following year, as Brit Pop took the UK by storm and the band's second album, (What's The Story) Morning Glory?, became the fastest selling LP of the decade.

The band made a third appearance in 2004 when show organiser Michael Eavis invited them to officially close that year's event from the Pyramid Stage.

Iconic: Oasis headlined Glastonbury's 25th anniversary in 1995, as Brit Pop took the UK by storm (pictured that year on the Pyramid Stage)

Reflecting on the annual festival in a recent 50th anniversary book, Gallagher wrote: 'There are literally hundreds of festivals in the world and I should know because I've played most if not all of them.

'The funny thing is though, there's really only ONE festival in the world - in the truest sense of the word anyway.

'Glastonbury is more important than Christmas. Glastonbury is more fun than New Year. Glastonbury can be brutal. Glastonbury can be magical.

Speaking out: Gallagher has been openly critical of its decision to feature mainstream artists on the playbill after decades of focusing on less commercial guitar driven artists (pictured attending Glastonbury with wife Sara McDonald in 2003)

'Glastonbury is whatever you want it to be. Glastonbury will change your life... and if it doesn't then I suggest you get a f**king life!'

However the musician has been openly critical of its decision to feature mainstream artists on the playbill after decades of focusing on less commercial guitar driven artists.

'If it aint broke dont fix it,' he told The Sun in 2008. If you start to break it then people arent going to go. Im sorry, but Jay-Z? No chance.

'Glastonbury has a tradition of guitar music and even when they throw the odd curve ball in on a Sunday night you go "Kylie Minogue?" I dont know about it. But Im not having hip-hop at Glastonbury. Its wrong.'
Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Guatemala Mario Adolfo Bucaro Flores have discussed cooperation in the areas of trade, tourism and education, Ukrinform reports, referring to the Ukrainian ministrys press service.

Ukraine and Guatemala are united by strong political ties. We appreciate Guatemala's support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our state, and active cooperation within international organizations. It is time to open a new page of bilateral relations to bring cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, tourism and education to a new level," Kuleba said.

He thanked Flores for his initiative to hold a phone conversation on the second day after his appointment as Guatemalan foreign minister to show solidarity with Ukraine amid Russian aggressive actions.

The Ukrainian foreign minister informed his Guatemalan counterpart in detail about the security situation near Ukraines state borders, the efforts of Ukraine and its partners to de-escalate tensions and keep Russia in line with a constructive diplomatic dialogue.

In this context, the interlocutors discussed steps to strengthen further support for Ukraine in the Latin American region.

In addition, Kuleba and Flores paid special attention to increasing trade.

The minister also exchanged invitations to pay reciprocal visits at a time convenient to them.

As Ukrinform reported, on October 6, 2021, President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the United Mexican States Oksana Dramaretska as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Republic of Panama, Belize and the Republic of Guatemala concurrently.

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One Cut Two Cut

Kannada (Amazon Prime Video)

Director: Vamsidhar Bhogaraju

Cast: Danish Sait, Samyukta Hornad, Prakash Belawadi

Rating: 2.5/5

Danish Sait, the improve master, and Vamsidhar Bhogaraju, a stand-up comedian, are the writers of One Cut Two Cut. So you get a film filled with hilarious wordplay and occasionally funny sequences. Are they enough to make an engaging film? Not really.

The film, co-produced by the late Puneeth Rajkumar's PRK Productions, has quirky characters and it tries to oscillate between satire and slapstick genres. But it lacks the energy of Danish Sait's previous films such as Humble Politician Nograj (2018) and French Biriyani (2020).

The story kickstarts when four people, unsatisfied with their lives, come together to create a revolution in Bengaluru. They blame the government for their situation and decide to do something drastic to get its attention.

Pruthviraj (Prakash Belawadi) is perennially upset that he was chosen over Amitabh Bachchan by a radio station decades ago. While the latter became a world-famous actor, Pruthviraj is left ruing about what could have been. So he has posters of Amitabhs classics such as Don, Deewar, and Coolie on the walls of his house albeit with a difference: the legendary actors face is replaced by his.

The other three are a struggling stand-up comedian Ayan (Vineeth Kumar, co-creator of Jordindian), Neha, a North Indian and a vegan searching for a job, and Gurudev, a former cook in the Indian Army. They hold a government school hostage and give a list of demands to the chief minister.

Danish Sait plays Gopi, an arts and craft teacher in the school. The character, who speaks peculiar English in an equally peculiar tone, first became famous in Danishs series of comedy sketches on YouTube. How Gopi handles this tricky situation forms the rest of the story.

One Cut Two Cut doesnt have two important aspects of a comedy thriller: rip-roaring moments and tense-filled scenarios. In the name of a heist, director Vamsidhar gives us a tepid drama with unconvincing twists. The film, at least, should have ended with a bang.

The film takes digs at the controversy-hungry Kannada news channels, and the pathetic state of affairs in our government schools. They are relatable and even funny in some places, yet they dont enhance the story.

This is a Kannada film but the characters speak in English and Hindi. They are authentic to the films backdrop. One Cut Two Cut is unapologetically made for the Bengaluru crowd and thats fine because we must have films of all kinds. There are funny nods to the urban and college crowds love for web series (hence the Money Heist costume), online food-ordering, intermittent fasting. Of course, the citys traffic problems get a mention as well.

We arent sure why Danish Sait is bronzed-up as Gopi. Is the film trying to define the typical middle-class appearance? Or is it trying to put skin complexion as one of the reasons behind his unmarried status?

It will take a while for people to warm up to Gopis personality and characteristics. Nograj, from the outset, is a cunning, selfish, and wacky politician. And he has grown on us with every outing. Whereas we arent still sure what makes Gopi different. He is naive and innocent in the beginning and turns brainy and even pulls off a superhero act in the climax. The transition might take people off-guard. It shhould have been more organic.

For a change, we see a supporting actor outdo Danish. Vineeth Kumar's shines with his expressions. He gets the best lines as well.

You are smiling at many points in the film but you dont burst out laughing as the film promised us. 'One Cut Two Cut' is a pandemic film, shot in 20-odd days. While the attempt is appreciable, the result leaves us wanting more.
A man who stabbed his wife with a kitchen knife, leaving her for dead has been awarded 17,500 in compensation for injuring his hand during the attack, MailOnline can reveal.

Dorinel Cojanu, 36, was jailed for 11 years in December 2015 for attempted murder after he plunged an eight-inch blade into his then wife Daniella's back and front in the kitchen of their family home while he was drunk.

The brown-handled knife went down through Daniela's right breast, passed through two ribs, through a lung and into her liver. She sustained such severe injuries that doctors warned the family she might not survive.

Daniela, 35 spent almost four months in hospital battling for her life and has been left with permanent scars.

Cojanu stabbed her with such ferocity that it left him with deep cuts to two fingers on his right hand, which doctors established required immediate surgery.

He only served five years of his sentence but while behind bars Cojanu, who originated from Romania, launched a compensation claim against the NHS insisting that the failure of doctors to treat him soon after going into Bedford prison had left him with life-long injuries that restricted the use of his right hand.

At a hearing in May 2021 at Norwich County Court he was awarded 8,500 by judge Mr Recorder Gibbons who rejected most of his claim for clinical negligence on the grounds that Cojanu had been dishonest over how he incurred the injury, loss of earnings and medical care costs he claimed he would incur.

Dorinel Cojanu (left), 36, was jailed for 11 years for attempted murder after he plunged an eight-inch blade into his then wife Daniella's (right) back and front in the kitchen of their home

Cojanu insisted that it was Daniela who had attacked him and that he sustained the injury as he tried to defend himself. He described it as an 'altercation.'

His lawyers then appealed the decision at the High Court, with Mr Justice Ritchie this week ruling that his compensation be increased to 17,500 while stating that Cojanu being 'dishonest' about how he received his injury was not relevant to the civil claim against the NHS.

In his judgment, he ruled that it did not matter if Cojanu had cut his fingers 'opening a tin of beansor whilst attempting to murder his wife.'

He stated: 'The Claimant (Cojanu) did not need to prove how he was cut to win the civil action. He was injured before admission to prison. At that time he was not convicted of anything. It matters not whether he had suffered the injury opening a tin of beans, in gang warfare or whilst attempting to murder his wife.

Daniella was left fighting for her life after the attack and spent four months in hospital

'But the cause of the cut fingers has no relevance to the clinical negligence claim. In my judgment the mechanism of how he cut his finger is incidental to the claim or collateral thereto.'

Cojanu was demanding total compensation of 125,000 insisting that not undergoing surgery prevented him from working as a manual labourer plus other costs. These included paying for surgery in Romania and after care.

But evidence submitted by him at last year's Norwich hearing showed that he earned and declared 775 between the summer of 2014, when he came to the UK and June 2015, when the attack took place. There was no evidence of him being employed in Romania after 2008.

Cojanu was deported back to Romania in June 2020, following his release with the High Court dismissing figures for loss of earnings submitted by his legal team because they were based on UK wage rates.

In their claim, his lawyers argued that Cojanu should have had surgery on his hand within 10 days of sustaining the injury during the attack on Daniella but that this was cancelled by NHS staff at Bedford prison.

Mr Justice Ritchie revealed in his judgment that Cojanu, who was on remand at the time, was initially scheduled for surgery at the Royal Free Hosptial, North London in June 2015.

The cancellation took place because of security concerns over taking him to the North London hospital and another appointment was arranged at the Lister hospital in Hertfordshire, which is closer to where Cojanu was imprisoned.

The NHS admitted that a referral to the Lister was sent but not marked urgent, meaning that surgery did not take place because an operation for reconstructive surgery on Cojanu's fingers was 'no longer feasible' after the ten-day window had passed.

It also revealed that Cojanu was offered surgery in in February 2016 but never took up the offer.

Mr Justice Ritchie dismissed the NHS's defence that it had no case to answer because Cojanu's injuries were as a result of his 'own criminal actions' insisting that this did not prevent him from pursuing civil action because the NHS had a 'common duty of care to all residents.'

Daniella (right) is furious at a judge's decision to award her estranged husband Cojanu (left) 17,500 in compensation after he hurt his hand in the attack that left her in hospital for months

Documents submitted during Cojanu's hearing at Norwich County Court showed that he had 50% functionality of his right hand, but this would have been 80% had surgery taken place within the ten-day time frame.

Cojanu fought his legal action from his home country, where he lives with his parents.

The High Court's decision to increase his compensation was slammed by Daniella, who told MailOnline that she is 'disgusted' by the judge's order.

She fumed: 'It's insulting and disgusting. This man is a violent, domestic abuser who tried to kill me. And he's being rewarded while I haven't received a single penny.

'I was in hospital for almost four months and nearly didn't make it. It's disgraceful that he is being rewarded for an injury he caused to himself as he attacked me.'

Daniella revealed that she has now divorced Cojanu and uses her maiden name of Barbu. She works as a cleaner and lives in Watford with her three children; Maria, 16; Razvan, 15 and Tatia, 12.

The family have broken off all contact with Cojanu, who Daniella described as a persistent violent abuser during their stormy marriage.

She cried: 'Life is very hard for us and I struggle to make ends meet raising three children on my own. I suffered a lot of violence in my marriage at the hands of this man, who was always drunk and would hit me all the time.

'The law is wrong for giving him this money. What kind of message does this send out to women like me who are victims of domestic violence?'

Her eldest daughter Maria, who was in the house with her siblings when Daniella was attacked, added: 'My father is a disgraceful man who tried to ruin our lives. We are better off without him. It's not right that he's getting this payment while we have not had any financial support.'

At Cojanu's trial in December 2015, the court heard that the couple came to the UK from Romania in June of 2014. Giving evidence, the wife said they struggled financially, and her husband started drinking heavily.

At the time of the stabbing, it was estimated that he was three times over the drink drive limit.

Cojanu denied the offences and insisted that Daniella stabbed herself before he came into the kitchen.

Judge Marie Catterson told him: 'The marriage fell apart in no small part due to your drinking. You and your wife had grown apart.

'You have no previous convictions, but your wife and her brother have said you have hit her in the past.'
An Oklahoma man allegedly called authorities and confessed to a triple murder while playing slots at a casino.

Robert Lewis, 61, claimed he wanted to turn himself in when he called police from the Cherokee Casino in Tahlequah, Oklahoma  about 65 miles east of Tulsa  according to Fox 23 News.

The confession came after one of the victims brothers reported to authorities in Arkansas last Friday that he found a body on Lewiss property in the Eldon Hill area outside Tahlequah last Friday; those officials contacted their counterparts in Oklahoma, according to the Muskogee Phoenix. An affidavit obtained by the Tulsa World stated that the brother and Lewiss unnamed ex-girlfriend found the body in a hole covered in leaves while searching for his missing sister.

On Saturday, authorities found two additional sets of human remains in a shallow grave on the property, according to Fox 23. The three victims were identified as Deanna Tippey, 36, Brian Shackleford, 51, and Quinley Lamb, 43.

It was Lambs brother who made the first, grisly discovery.

Its sad anytime we have to respond to something like this, Cherokee County Sheriff Jason Chennault told News on 6. But the way the bodies were disposed of just makes it that much more sad.

Chennault told Fox 23 that Tippey was Lewiss girlfriend. It's unclear how he knew Lamb and Shackleford, but Fox 23 reported that authorities said they were there as part of an apparent drug deal.

Cherokee County District Attorney Jack Thorp claimed there might be separate motives in the three murders, as Lamb and Shackleford  both from Sharp County  were killed separately from Tippey.

Lewis said he killed Lamb and Shackleford on his birthday, which would be Jan. 16, Chennault told Fox 23. Tippey was killed later.

Tippey died sometime between Jan. 16 and Jan. 28, according to News on 6.

On Monday, the State Medical Examiners Office in Tulsa determined that Tippey died by strangulation, Lamb was beaten to death and Shackleford died after being stabbed with an unknown object.

Story continues

Family members had reported Lamb missing from Sharp County, Arkansas  about 250 miles east of Tahlequah  in recent weeks, according to Fox 23.

Lewiss ex-girlfriend  who helped Lambs brother find the first body  had reportedly called Lewis and asked him about the whereabouts of Lamb, Shackleford and another unnamed man, according to the affidavit. Lewis claimed the three individuals were at his residence, adding, they are gone and wont be seen again.

Sheriff Chennault said they plan on returning to Lewiss property to search for additional bodies.

We intend to go out there and check again soon, Chennault told Fox 23. Obviously, we have some winter weather coming in that would complicate those efforts. Were trying to get it done soon.

On Monday, Lewis was officially charged in Cherokee County District Court with three counts of first-degree murder, according to the Tulsa World.

District Attorney Thorp told reporters that Lewis could face the death penalty if convicted, according to Fox 23.

I expect that my team of prosecutors and myself will be meeting with family members, and we will be discussing that, said Thorp. But I will say it is definitely in the realm of consideration that this murder that occurred here in Cherokee County could possibly warrant the death penalty.

Lewis is being held without bond and is expected to appear before a judge on March 1.
Sexually adventurous couples have shared their kinkiest experiences in an eye-opening online thread.

People from around the world took to US-based secret sharing app Whisper to offer up their X-rated stories, including one man who helped his wife had sex with a stranger they met in the cinema.

Many of the revelations reveal the unusual place where couples have had sex, including a shop changing room, hotel hot tub and a gym shower.

One woman recalled having a threesome with two men while her husband watched. Another described having sex at the train station with her boyfriend as 'amazing'.

Here, FEMAIL shares some of the most shocking confessions...

Putting on a show: A woman shared this tidbit from a wild trip to Las Vegas with her husband

Three's a crowd! A wife has fond memories of a wild night with her husband and two other men

All aboard! A woman from Smithville, Texas, had sex on the go with her boyfriend

A different kind of workout: A man from Midvale, Utah, got intimate with his wife in a gym

Risk-takers: An American couple wanted to have sex in a hotel hot tub in front of other guests

Secret mission: A husband from West Haven, Connecticut, facilitated his wife's hook-up

Start of something new: A couple from Slidell, Louisiana, entered a new frontier together

No hard feelings here! A man from Washington DC was caught off guard by his girlfriend

In full bloom! A husband in Charleston, South Carolina, is happy to have an open marriage

Sneaky: One couple became handsy in a hot springs without the other visitor noticing
Russell Crowe will resume filming his blockbuster thriller Poker Face in Sydney this month, following an extended Covid shutdown dating back to August last year.

Production insiders have confirmed the Oscar-winning actor, along with co-stars Liam Hemsworth and rapper RZA, will head back to the Emerald City to film a number of key scenes, including a rollicking car chase in and around Sydney's Harbour Tunnel.

The big budget action flick was put on pause last year after a number of crew members tested positive to Covid.

Crowe is set to direct and star in the high octane outing which is set inside the glamorous world of high-stakes poker and also features a cameo from Hemsworth's sister-in-law Elsa Pataky.

Back on: Russell Crowe's (pictured) multi-million dollar action thriller Poker Face will resume filming in Sydney in February after Covid forced the production into hibernation last August

The film will be produced by Australian actor Addam Bramich and Gary Hamilton.

Shot both at Fox Studios and across a number of NSW landmarks, the film was originally due to wrap in September last year.

Written by Aussie screenwriter Stephen Coates, Poker Face was originally slated to be directed by Gary Fleder, who was responsible for 1995 crime thriller Things To Do In Denver When You're Dead.

However, scheduling issues and some internal studio conflict led to Crowe taking the reins in what is his second major directing outing since 2014's The Water Diviner.

Cast: Production insiders confirmed Crowe, along with film co-stars Liam Hemsworth (pictured) and rapper RZA, are headed back to the Harbour City with a number of key scenes still to film including a rollicking car chase

The film will be produced by Australian actor Addam Bramich (pictured) and Gary Hamilton

Crow will also star in the lead role of Jake - a grizzled tech billionaire who finds himself the subject of a violent home invasion.

Much of the film is already in the can, having been shot across a number of Sydney landmarks including the $100million Crown Residence penthouse at Barangaroo and the Kiama coastline.

Crowe confirmed in late August 2021 that at least one crew member had tested positive to Covid-19 just six days before the end of the shoot.

'Unfortunately 6 days from the end of our shoot on PokerFace we have had a confirmed positive COVID case amongst our crew and a second possible positive under further investigation by our PokerFace Covid team and NSWHealth,' he wrote on his Instagram account.

Big role: Poker Face is set inside the glamorous world of high-stakes poker and features a cameo from Liam Hemsworth's sister-in-law Elsa Pataky (pictured)

'For the safety of cast and crew and the wider community, the production has been immediately paused and everyone instructed to isolate whilst the situation is looked into.

'We have followed strict protocols with cast and crew being tested three times a week for the past 11+ weeks.'

Crowe said the entire crew had been masked while on set, with the exception of three individuals who had medical exemptions.

Star on the rise: American rapper, actor, filmmaker, and record producer RZA will star in the blockbuster action flick

'We feel for the crew members involved, like all the people on this show they are both very committed team players and diligent in their approach to their work responsibilities,' he continued.

We also feel for the wider community going through these difficult times. We hope this situation will be confined and we can be back up and running very soon.

A South Eastern Sydney Local Health District spokesperson at the time said the case - believed to have been acquired in the community - had been recorded in a member of the crew working at Barangaroo on August 30.

Glamorous: Poker Face has been shot at a number of Sydney landmarks, including Crown Sydney at Barangaroo and the Kiama coastline

High octane: The return to production will see one of the film's most pivotal scenes shot - a breakneck car chase in and around Sydney's Harbour Tunnel

Gorgeous: Sydney's stunning harbour will serve as a breathtaking backdrop for the film

'The worker was not vaccinated and worked for several days while infectious,' the spokesperson said.

'The production has been temporarily shut down while the Public Health Unit works with the film company to identify workplace contacts and refer for testing and quarantine as indicated.'

Crowes production had previously been criticised by Kiama MP Gareth Ward who said it made a 'total mockery of the Public Health Orders'.

'People cant see family and friends, funerals limited to 10, no cases in Shellharbour but still locked down but apparently A-listers producing movies is essential?' Ward said.
On the same day that tens of thousands of teachers and school workers returned to reopened schools across Victoria, the Australian Education Union (AEU) state leadership last Friday announced it was shutting down limited work bans.

These bans, operational last NovemberDecember, were triggered by unresolved negotiations between the union and the state Labor government over a new industrial agreement covering the public school system. The actions were of the most limited character. They included prohibitions on state parliamentarians visiting schools, a ban on implementing online trial NAPLAN standardised tests, a staff boycott of one of the usual two after-school meetings each week, and a refusal to reply to certain Department of Education emails.

In shutting down these restricted measures on the first day of term in 2022, the AEU was sending a calculated message to the state government and the ruling elite more broadly. As the schools are forced to reopen amid dangerously high levels of COVID-19 infection in the community, the bureaucracy will do everything within its power to suppress opposition among teachers and school workers. Not even the most constrained forms of industrial action will be permitted while coronavirus rips through the schools.

According to Channel 7 News, in the 24 hours between Monday 4 p.m. and Tuesday 4 p.m. this week, COVID infections were detected at 380 schools across Victoria, affecting 682 students and 63 staff. Not a single school was closed in response.

The AEU has enthusiastically supported the reopening drive. State president Meredith Peace last week claimed that the state Labor government of Premier Daniel Andrews was placing health and safety at the forefront. Neither Peace nor anyone else has said anything about the entirely predictable explosion in case numbers in the schools over the last four days.

The union bureaucracys contempt for the rights of teacher-members was reflected in its unilateral and anti-democratic shutdown of the work bans. In a statewide ballot organised last year, 97 percent of voting AEU members supported the actions. A vote was not organised before the bans were called off.

Nor was any serious explanation provided. In a brief message sent to AEU members, the union leadership declared there had been significant progress on key issues regarding workload and salaries. Not a single detail of this purported progress was provided. Nevertheless, the statement continued, effective immediately, all bans were being suspended, in an act of good faith given the progress being made.

The AEUs shutdown of limited industrial action in Victoria follows the unions calling off of a threatened strike in South Australia (SA). Fearful of the enormous opposition developing among ordinary teachers and school workers over the dangerous schools reopening, the union in SA held a ballot for a one-day strike scheduled for the beginning of term. Within days, however, and after teachers had overwhelmingly endorsed the strike, the bureaucracy called off the action, on the basis of supposed progress in their talks with the state government on the terms of the reopening.

The unions collaboration with state and federal governments in the school reopening drive is a highly conscious operation.

The AEU bureaucracy knows it is sitting atop a powder keg. Part of its strategy in blocking an eruption of opposition from below involves an attempt to isolate and wear down the most knowledgeable and outspoken educators within each school. This is why it is resorting to blatant censorship on social media, as it attempts to block any forum for a broad-based discussion allowing concerned and hostile teachers and school workers to connect with one another.

Union officials operating the AEU Victorias Facebook page have deleted multiple comments posted in recent days. Some of these were responding to a union post that promoted an American teachers account of her return to the classroom, which urged educators to embrace the simple, sublime moments.

In response to this disgusting display of contempt for the health and safety concerns of teachers being forced into unsafe classrooms, one teacher responded, all in caps: I am furious. Why are schools returning to face to face teaching at this time? All the gear in the world does not make schools safe for students, teachers or their families. Gear has not even arrived in schools at appropriate levels. They are expecting many teachers to get sick. Maybe even 1 in 5. [] It is a disaster waiting to happen. No one is taking appropriate action. What about you [i.e. the union]? A totally political decision. Not based on health. A myopic economic decision. When the damage is done it will be too late. Someone has to stop this train wreck before it happens.

Another poster replied: AEU doesnt care about its members anymore.

A member of the Committee for Public Education (CFPE), a rank-and-file teachers group fighting against the union-enforced reopening, explained that it was based on the interests of business and will lead to teachers, ES staff and students unnecessarily contracting the virus. Lives are in danger and people threatened with getting Long COVID as well. Should not be returning to face to face teaching when infections and deaths are increasing.

All three comments were quickly deleted by the union. How many others have been wiped cannot be determined. It can be noted, however, that there is not a single posted comment expressing opposition to the school reopening from the nearly 20,000 people who follow the AEU Facebook page.

Sharp lessons must be drawn from AEUs role in the latest stage of the COVID pandemic. The union serves the interests of the government, not the membership. The bureaucracys considerable material wealth and privileges ultimately derive from its collaboration with the state, not only on coronavirus policy but also on issues such as wages and working conditions within the schools, as well as the broader, decades-old assault on the public education system.

The development of new forms of organisationrank-and-file committees, built in every school and communityhas never been more urgent. Claims that the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is mild are nothing but pro-business propaganda. In the US, to take just one international example, thousands of people are dying every day, children among them. Countless young people are being needlessly exposed to potentially lifelong, debilitating Long COVID symptoms. This all has nothing to do with the wellbeing or learning of school studentsit is driven by the capitalist classs determination to keep workers in their workplaces.

Entirely needless and preventable deaths and serious illnesses caused by in-school virus transmission must not be permitted! Teachers and school workers should contact the Committee for Public Education and take forward the fight for rank-and-file committees and for the necessary action to suspend unsafe face to face teaching, including strike action.

Contact the CFPE:

Email: cfpe.aus@gmail.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/commforpubliceducation

Twitter: @CFPE_Australia
San Francisco: Apple is likely to launch the next version of its AirPods Pro in the second half of this year and now a new report has claimed that the upcoming AirPods would come packed with motion sensors for the fitness tracking capabilities. Apple Launches First Daily Newsletter for San Francisco Bay Area.

The second-generation AirPods Pro will have a revamped design and it is also expected to be powered by an upgraded chip that brings advanced audio-related functions like active noise cancellation and more improvements, resulting in improved battery life, reports GizmoChina.

Apple's suppliers are getting ready for shipments of the new high-end AirPods. The second-generation AirPods Pro may support lossless audio support and a charging case that makes a sound to help you find it.

The upcoming wearable may support Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC) and can also have integrated AirTag features in the charging case and support for Apple Lossless.

In the latest investors' note, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said he also expects more integration of health features in the AirPods Pro 2. In a previous memo, he had said that the model would feature updated motion trackers for greater fitness applications.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 03, 2022 11:31 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Far-right and outright fascist forces mobilized under the banner of the so-called Freedom Convoy continued to occupy much of downtown Ottawa, including the environs of Canadas parliament, for a sixth day Wednesday.

Ostensibly launched to oppose the federal Liberal governments vaccine mandate for cross-border truckers, the Convoy was systematically built up by sections of the political establishment and given wall-to-wall coverage in the corporate media in order to push for the scrapping of all remaining anti-COVID-19 public health measures.

In a threatening statement released yesterday morning, Convoy organizers vowed to stay in Ottawa for as long as it takes for governments across Canada to end all mandates associated with COVID-19. Canada Unity, the far-right group that initiated the Convoy, has publicly called for a putsch against the elected national government. In a Memorandum of Understanding published on its website, it advocates that the unelected Governor General, the Senate, the appointed upper house of Canadas parliament, and a junta of Convoy leaders seize power so as to abolish all anti-COVID measures and restore freedom.

Steve Bell, Ottawas deputy chief of police, told a Wednesday press conference that the remaining few hundred protesters are more like an occupying force, describing their behaviour as highly volatile.

At the same press conference, Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly said his force was considering requesting help from the Canadian Armed Forces to clear the remaining vehicles and protesters. According to the CBC, Sloly said that all options remain on the table to end the occupation, from negotiations and a court injunction, to forcible removable of the protesters, But all approaches come with significant concerns, including rioting, injury and death.

Sloly added that a significant contingent of the protesters who remain are from the United States. Given that Donald Trump, the fascist-minded ex-US president, gave a full-throated endorsement of the Convoy over the weekend, it is reasonable to assume that many of the American participants are far-right activists who were involved in the January 6, 2021 storming of the US Capitol Building, when Trump and much of Republican Party leadership attempted to overturn the 2020 presidential election through a coup.

Far-right protesters began besieging Canadas parliament last Friday. On Saturday, the day slated for the Convoys official arrival in Ottawa, an estimated 9,000-15,000 people joined what can only be described as a fascist mobilization. Participants bore Confederate flags and Nazi swastikas, attacked workers, threatened religious minorities, and flouted public health rules.

The Conservative Party, right-wing media outlets like the Toronto Sun and National Post, and sections of big business deliberately incited this far-right extra-parliamentary movement to use it as a battering ram to smash through the widespread popular support for COVID-19 public health measures. More broadly, they are seeking to use the threat of far-right political violence to shift official politics sharply to the right.

One of the first indications of that shift came yesterday, when the Conservative parliamentary caucus voted by 73 to 45 to ditch Erin OToole as party leader. Although a far-right faction of the party had long criticized OToole for his moderate positions during last years federal election campaign, the final straw appears to have been his initial reluctance to unequivocally endorse the Convoy.

Significantly, the Wall Street Journal, the premier publication of Rupert Murdochs media empire and traditional voice of Americas rapacious financial elite, published one of its rare editorials on Canadian affairs just hours before OTooles ouster, urging his removal. Entitled Truckers and Canadas Conservatives: Opposition leader Erin OToole has earned a leadership challenge, the editorial called the Convoy a mixed bag, but signaled its support for instrumentalizing the far-right protest to press for the end of all public health measures and a more stridently rightwing, pro-big business Conservative opposition. Liberals, the Journal declared, tar the protest as racist, but the peaceful populist uprising is notable and some of the protesters gripes are legitimate.

Since the Convoys Jan. 24 launch, leading Tory politicians have been lining up to hail it as a movement of patriotic and peaceful Canadians. Adopting the language of the fascist protest organizers, Tory finance critic Pierre Poilievre, who is seen as a frontrunner to replace OToole if he enters the Conservative leadership race, has denounced Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for spreading fear and lauded the far-right Convoy as bright, joyful and peaceful Canadians championing freedom.

There can be little doubt that whoever replaces OToole will continue to court the far-right forces mobilized by the Freedom Convoy. The Conservative Partywhich was founded in 2003 through the merger of the remaining Progressive Conservative rump and the right-wing populist Reform Party cum Canadian Alliancehas, like its US Republican ally, become an incubator for far-right forces. In the 2017 Conservative leadership contest, Maxime Bernier, who would go on to form and lead the ultra-right Peoples Party of Canada, was only narrowly defeated on the 13th ballot, by Andrew Scheer, himself a fervent social conservative and devotee of Opus Dei. Bernier was a featured speaker at Saturdays Freedom Convoy rally and his Peoples Party has played a prominent role in promoting it.

The remaining protesters are more than capable of provoking a violent clash with the police, which right-wing sections of the ruling elite would exploit to push Trudeau to make concessions or engineer the Liberal governments downfall. In addition to abolishing all pandemic-related restrictions, the ruling class elements that have promoted the Convoy want an intensification of austerity for the working class and for Canadian imperialism to assume an even more prominent and aggressive role in the US military-strategic offensives against China and Russia, including by sending lethal weapons to Ukraine,

On Tuesday, Ottawa Police Chief Sloly noted that arms and weaponry have been brought into the national capital region by the demonstrators. Workers and local residents report being assaulted, berated for wearing masks, insulted with racial slurs, and threatened with sexual violence. They have also noted the light-touch approach to the far-right activists taken by the police, who have only charged three people since the protest began. The Ottawa Police Service has had to officially deny that its officers have taken food and other supplies to the protesters.

The comparatively small number of fascistic protesters have received extensive financial and political backing from far-right forces and their patrons in Canada and internationally. A GoFundMe page set up by Tamara Lich, a spokesperson for the western separatist Maverick Party, has raised over $10 million. A significant portion of the donations were made anonymously or under fake names, which suggests that well-known far-right operatives wanted to conceal their identity so as not to undermine the public presentation of the Convoy as the authentic voice of working Joes. Many other donations came in from small business owners in rural Alberta and Ontario, according to a CBC analysis.

With substantial financial resources at their disposal, convoy organizers are threatening to mount similar protest actions across the country. Convoys have been announced for Quebec City and Toronto this coming weekend, and protesters are expected to return to Ottawa.

In Alberta, a blockade by Freedom Convoy supporters of the Coutts border crossing with the US state of Montana ended on its fifth day with RCMP officers clearing two lanes of the roadway. The previous day there had been violent clashes between protesters and police officers. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, one of the most vocal supporters of the Freedom Convoy as it traversed Canada to reach Ottawa last week, felt compelled to condemn the protesters violence and called for the blockades end, which has had a significant adverse economic impact.

A section of Kenneys United Conservative Party (UCP) legislative caucus lent support to the illegal blockade, some explicitly and others implicitly. Soon after the blockade was lifted the UCP caucus chair, Nathan Neudorf, issued a statement denying its rural caucus had negotiated an agreement to temporarily end the Coutts blockade in exchange for scrapping proof-of-vaccination requirements. But even as he did so, Neudoff reaffirmed that the government will soon abolish the requirements.

If hard-right sections of the ruling elite are able to go on the political offensive by mobilizing violent far-right elements whose anti-democratic views are anathema to the vast majority of the population, it is because the working class is being systematically demobilized and politically suppressed by the pro-capitalist trade unions and the social-democratic New Democratic Party (NDP).

The NDP has condemned the Freedom Convoys dangerous rhetoric, accused extremist elements of attempting to turn it into a Canadian version of the terrorist attacks on the US Capitol, and lamented that by default Conservative MPs supporting the Convoy are aligning with extremists who wish to subvert the democratic process.

What the NDP does not and will not say is that powerful sections of the ruling elite and political establishment have conjured up a far-right extra-parliamentary movement to violently enforce the abolition of pandemic public health measures and push politics far to the right.

Like the US Democratic Party, which refused to call for any popular mobilization against Trumps plot to overturn the presidential election and hold onto power as an authoritarian strongman, the NDP has nothing to say to the millions of workers across the country who are disgusted and outraged by the fascists running amuck in Ottawa.

Throughout the pandemic, the NDPs principal focus has been guaranteeing Trudeaus minority Liberal government a parliamentary majority. They have voted for the Liberals massive bailouts of the banks and big business, cuts to financial support for workers, and increases in military spending. In British Columbia, where the NDP forms the government, they are pursuing a pandemic policy of mass infection and death just as ruthlessly as their Liberal partners at the federal level, or for that manner Kenney and his UCP. Their response to efforts by the political right to disrupt the Liberal/NDP alliancewhich rests on the union bureaucracys ability to smother worker opposition to social inequality, attacks on democratic rights, and the drive to warwill be to double down on their support for Trudeau and the reactionary state apparatus.
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday claimed that his government in the past five years had set up ''several milestones'' and the state has become the country's second-largest economy from being at the sixth and seventh position.

Presenting his government's report card about the work done in the past 5 years, the Chief Minister said that Uttar Pradesh was ''neglected'' after independence. Chief Minister said the development in merely five years contributed to making the state's economy at number 2 spot.

UP's economy from 1947-to 2017 was at 6th, 7th spot (in the country). No work done in 70 years...But in merely 5 years, we have successfully helped the UP economy reach the 2nd spot, " UP CM Yogi Adityanath said while addressing a press conference shortly before leaving for Gorakhpur where he will file his nomination papers on Friday,

UP's economy from 1947-2017 was at 6th, 7th spot (in the country). No work done in 70 years...But in merely 5 years, we have successfully helped UP economy reach the 2nd spot: UP CM Yogi Adityanath pic.twitter.com/PEubPo3e9H  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 3, 2022

The monk-politician stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his government had achieved Covid management and this was appreciated worldwide.

"Our challenge was to save life and livelihood and we managed to do both. We are leading in vaccination too," the UP CM said. CM Yogi said that the state`s economy has gone up to the second position from the earlier sixth or seventh position that it held.

"In the past five years, we increased the per capita income of the people. We provided a conducive atmosphere for investors and industrialists which also led to job creation," he said.

Talking about police reforms, Yogi Adityanath that he addressed the problems of the police force and gave promotions to pending cases. "We also worked towards modernisation of the force and provide modern equipment and better facilities for the police, including better houses for the policemen," he added.

The Chief Minister said that his government set up forensic labs which help in better investigations. He further said that women recruitment in the police had gone up three times.

"All gram panchayats now have women police personnel and we have achieved good results in crime control," he stated. Citing the National Crime Records Bureau statistics, the chief minister said that crime figures had come down appreciably in the past five years.

UP is the first state to deploy women police personnel at all gram panchayats...to initiate joint patrolling. It's also the first state that saw no riots, terror activities in the last 5 years and first state to use new technology to promote e-Prosecution: UP CM Yogi Adityanath pic.twitter.com/d2tw7iTFDv February 3, 2022

He further said that his government had put an end to the mafia and organised crime and the stern action taken against such elements was now proving to be a major deterrent.

"During the BSP government, 364 riots had taken place and 700 riots during the SP regime but not a single riot took place in my regime," he said. Yogi Adityanath said that the double engine governments at the centre and in UP had turned around the MSME sector which was now heading towards remarkable growth.

The Chief Minister said that the image and perception of Uttar Pradesh had changed drastically in the past five years and with expressways and defence corridors, that was poised for a new tomorrow.

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On Wednesday, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) officially ended its system for hospitals to report COVID-19 deaths daily to the federal government, amid a worldwide campaign to reduce the reporting of COVID-19 deaths and cases.

The end of the hospital death reporting came as the official US death toll from COVID-19 approached 900,000, and at least 60,000 people died from COVID-19 in January.

a ventilator helps a COVID-19 patient breath inside the Coronavirus Unit in a Houston hospital. AP Photo/David J. Phillip, File)

The same day as the US federal government stopped collecting figures on hospital deaths, the UK government announced plans to end reporting of the UKs COVID-19 death toll by Easter.

The move by HHS, which was quietly announced on January 6, received no coverage until Dr. Jorge A. Caballero brought it to public attention on January 14. A tweet reporting Caballeros warnings by this reporter went viral, prompting thousands of people to state their opposition to the move.

The end of hospital death reporting has been met with a wall of silence in the media. But among health experts, there is broad opposition to this measure, which would slash the most up-to-date metrics for assessing the current state of COVID-19 deaths and hospital capacity.

The move is incomprehensible, one federal health official told the WSWS.

It is the only consistent, reliable and actionable dataset at the federal level, the official said. Ninety-nine percent of hospitals report one hundred percent of the data every day.

Responding to claims that the HHS data is duplicative of death data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the official said, deaths are reported by the counties/states but the process is very slow and many coroners are actually not wanting to cite COVID as the reason, while hospitals rely on diagnoses. The official continued, It is also timely as it is every day and many states have a delay anyway but now many are reporting less often.

Prior to the ending of the HHS reporting system, there were two ways for COVID-19 deaths to be reported to the federal government.

The HHS system relied on direct reporting by hospitals, meaning that all deaths were reported by trained medical professionals on the basis of medical diagnoses. It was daily, timely and included a broad cross-section of relevant information.

With the end of this system, the only remaining means for the federal government to track COVID-19 deaths relies on the aggregation and reporting of death certificates on the state level. These statistics, which pass through Americas fragmented, archaic and politically manipulated system of coroners and medical examiners, are then aggregated by the CDC.

The office of coroner is a remnant of the Middle Ages, in which the officers primary responsibilities had to do with the collection of revenues for royal authorities. A 2009 National Academy of Sciences (NAS) report explained: On behalf of the crown, the crowner [coroner] was responsible for inquests to confirm the identity of the deceased, determine the cause and manner of death, confiscate property, collect death duties, and investigate treasure troves.

The report, commissioned by the US Department of Justice, stated that more than 80 years ago, the [NAS] identified concerns regarding the lack of standardization in death investigations and called for the abolishment of the coroners office, noting that the office has conclusively demonstrated its incapacity to perform the functions customarily required of it.

The 2009 review found that About 36 percent of the population lives where minimal or no special training is required to conduct death investigations. Recently, an 18-year-old high school student was elected a deputy coroner in Indiana after completing a short training course.

As the Economist recently warned, Coroners reliant on voters who are skeptical about COVID have not been as scrupulous as their medical-examiner peers. One coroner in Missouri candidly told the press that he strikes COVID-19 from the death certificates at the request of the family of the deceased.

Once the data goes through the coroner/medical examiner system, it will be aggregated by states, most of which do not report daily and are themselves moving rapidly to reduce the frequency of COVID-19 death reporting. Tennessee ended daily reporting in early January, and Pew reports that experts expect other states to follow.

The official added that the HHS dataset is normalized to a specific hospital and can he compared to other data like capacity, number of admissions, ages of admissions, number in ICU, number of ventilated and a death countnot just for COVID but also influenza (which we have never had good insight into at this scale).

The official said that the official explanation, that the ending of data aims to reduce burdens on the hospital system, is not believable, because the system is largely automated through the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) System.

Hospitals operate massive data infrastructure systems, with medical staff spending a substantial portion of their time entering data into these systems.

The HHS worked with major manufacturers of medical records software to automate the system, meaning that close to 85 percent of the data reporting was fully automated.

The hospitals have been doing this for going on two years, the official said. HHS worked with all the major EMR vendors to automate the capture of this data.

Last year, Alexis C. Madrigal, a co-founder of the COVID Tracking Project, writing in the Atlantic, called the HHS reporting system Americas Most Reliable Pandemic Data, writing, The hospitalization data coming out of HHS are now the best and most granular publicly available data on the pandemic. This information has changed the response to the pandemic for the better.

Explaining why the system was set up, the official said, There was no hospital data at the federal level and even at many states. We had no idea who has capacity, who was in trouble, who had supply shortages, who was getting admissions so fast that they would need supplemental meds, who has staffing issues, etc. We also didnt know anything about the people admitted in a timely manner, such as age.

The ending of the HHS reporting system will likewise inflict collateral damage on the management of other diseases, including influenza. The CDC has never really counted cases for things that a lot of people get like the flu, the official said. They get data from sentinel sites and then extrapolate what is happening.

Stating that there existed a correlation between the calls for ending COVID-19 data reporting and the drive to make life with COVID-19 the new normal, the official warned, I dont know any scientists who want to have less data.
Last month, the school board in McMinn County, Tennessee, voted unanimously to remove Art Spiegelmans Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel about the Holocaust, Maus: A Survivors Tale (1986), from its 8th grade English Language Arts curriculum because of eight words they judged to be inappropriate, such as bitch and god damn, as well as a nude image. Spiegelmans work powerfully depicts the experience of the authors family during the Holocaust.

In Maus, the author uses the comic-book format to represent various ethnicities as different species of animals (Jews are depicted as mice, Germans as cats, Poles as pigs, Americans as dogs, English as fish, etc.). The novel was the central text used for a module on the Holocaust. The book, which has been translated into some 30 languages, is widely regarded and used in middle school and high school curricula across the United States and internationally, including in other school districts in Tennessee.

McMinn County, with a population of about 50,000, lies in the southeastern corner of Tennessee, close to Georgia and North Carolina. It is poor and rural, and its students have a lower reading proficiency, like most of Tennessee, than the national average. Tennessee is among the bottom 10 states in per pupil education spending.

Board members meeting on January 10 argued that the Spiegelman book was not age-appropriate, although it has been taught to middle schoolers for decades to describe the atrocities of the Holocaust.

Board members said they wanted to protect young minds from what they are exposed to every day on social media and cable television. One of them pontificated on the nature of art, with one board member declaring, Its like when youre watching TV and a cuss word or nude scene comes on, it would be the same movie without it. Well, this would be the same book without it. The board member then essentially called Spiegelman a pornographer, asserting that this guy that created the artwork used to do the graphics for Playboy.

Educators from the county defended the novel before the board, arguing that it aligned with state standards and served students well as the centerpiece of a curriculum module on the Holocaust. One educator told the board that the author is trying to portray that the best he can with the language that he chooses that would relate to that time, maybe to help people who havent been in that aspect in time to actually relate to the horrors of it.

But that did not stop the board from removing the book from the curriculum. In a statement after the fact, the board said, while declaring the Holocaust an atrocity that must never be repeated, We simply do not believe that this work is an appropriate text for our students to study.

In an interview on CNN, Spiegelman remarked that the board was asking, essentially, Why cant they teach a nicer Holocaust?

This is a sordid episode of censorship, and it certainly reeks of anti-Semitism and social backwardness. While the board members did not make any overtly racist remarks, the tone of those on the board who spoke was one of dismissing the historical significance of the Holocaust. The most that could be mustered by one board member was, Our children need to know about the Holocaust, they need to understand that there are several pieces of history  that shows depression or suppression of certain ethnicities. Its not acceptable today. Weve got to accept people for who and what they are.

The removal of the book from the curriculum in this county cannot be seen outside of the increasingly fascistic character of the Republican Party. The county voted 71 percent for Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election, and all the countys leading officials are members of the party.

The school board clearly felt emboldened to censor Maus because of the visibility of such figures as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a promoter of fascist and anti-Semitic conspiracy theories, whose district is only about an hour south of McMinn County. Republicans are currently seeking to eliminate hundreds of books from school libraries in Texas, many on sexuality or works by prominent black novelists such as Toni Morrison and Jesmyn Ward.

The party is under the leadership of Donald Trump, who told the fascist Proud Boys to stand back and stand by and is the hero of open anti-Semites who were present at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

This week, Republican legislators in Tennessee sponsored House Bill 1944 that would prohibit public schools from including obscene books in libraries.

All indications are that many people in McMinn County feel humiliated by the behavior of the school board. One resident writing on a McMinn County Facebook page said, I was even more shocked when I saw a graphic novel series that I had read as a youth being banned by what I had always took for granted was the most free county in America. I read Maus when I was in 9th grade for American history. I cannot believe that we deny this now as curriculum. While graphic, it conveys a glimpse into one of the saddest chapters in human history.

The result of the banning of Maus has been to boost sales of the book to bestseller status around the country. There is a waiting list for copies of the work at Knox County Library in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Students living in Sydneys hardest-hit local government areas during last years COVID-19 lockdown achieved higher Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks than in previous years, and the ATARs of those living outside them were lower.

Experts said several factors could have driven the change, such as significant use of special considerations, or poorer performances from students outside hotspot council areas, or the fact that lockdowns took away social options and gave students more time to study.

Naomi Habib, a high achieving student from Merrylands, Credit:Brook Mitchell

Those with ATARs below 85 in hotspot council areas typically achieved ranks between 0.75 and 1.8 higher than would have been expected from the results achieved in 2016 and 2019, said a report on scaling in the 2021 HSC from the University Admissions Centre (UAC).

The resulting depression in ATARs for those outside the LGAs was smaller, as it was spread across more students, the report said. Those with ranks around 55 achieved up to 0.7 lower than expected, and students from northern Sydney with ATARs below 85 may have had their ranks depressed by up to 1.6.
Its been called one of the greatest frauds of all time  and it was carried out while its alleged perpetrator was rubbing elbows with some of Hollywoods biggest stars.

Jho Low, a Malaysian businessman, is suspected of stealing $4.5 billion from the government of Malaysia, using the money to fund movies like The Wolf of Wall Street, throw lavish, over-the-top parties and purchase his own custom $250 million yacht to sail around the world with his famous pals.

But when the daring fraud was discovered, Low fled the United States and went on the run. He continues to evade authorities to this day.

I think its safe to say this is one of the greatest frauds of all time, certainly in our times, Bradley Hope, a journalist and author of Billion Dollar Whale told American Greed in an episode airing Wednesday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on CNBC.

Low grew up on the island of Penang, Malaysia, where his family was part of the ethnic Chinese minority. His father owed a garment factory that made cheap clothes for the United States. And, while hed later claim his family had been very wealthy, Low was also known to make up stories about his past  once even claiming he had been a member of royalty, according to "American Greed."

He left Malaysia for the renowned Harrow School, a British boarding school just outside of London where hed make a critical connection to classmate Riza Aziz.

Azizs stepfather, Najib Razak, would later serve as the Prime Minister of Malaysia  that link would then provide Low with the connection he needed to make his suspected theft possible.

But before Low allegedly found a way to steal billions from the country he had once called home, he established himself at the University of Pennsylvanias Wharton School of business as a financial expert.

He started an investment fund while he was at Wharton, and that was making some investments on behalf of some wealthy families that he knew in the Middle East and around the world at that time, said Louise Story, a filmmaker and former journalist with The New York Times.

Story continues

He also became known as the Asian Great Gatsby after throwing a series of lavish and ridiculous parties, through which he earned popularity and favor by showering other clubgoers with bottles of Cristal (which in some cases could cost up to $4,000 a bottle), according to "American Greed."

It would start out with like 10 bottles of Cristal and by the end of the night everybody in the entire club was drinking their own bottle of champagne or, you know, something or another bought by Jho Low, Hope said of Low's parties.

They continued in New York and across the world after he finished school.

Paris Hilton was a frequent fixture at his side, whether it was on a yacht, club or casino, after  said Christen Sproule, a former assistant U.S. attorney  he basically bought access to her after developing a crush on her in college.

She wasnt the only celebrity to befriend the awkward businessman. Sproule said Low also once bought Lindsey Lohan 23 bottles of Cristal for her 23rd birthday.

Federal authorities believe that, over a two-year period, Low spent over $200 million in gifts and jewelry for his friends.

Jho Low loved to purchase gifts for women, Sproule said. He would purchase Birken bags or Cartier or Rolex watches and he would just give them away to models and other women he was hanging around with.

Authorities believe Low gained access to the money after convincing Razak to start a sovereign wealth fund in Malaysia.

It was supposed to be like, the benevolent fund for the country of Malaysia, where money would get pulled in and generate funds that would help the people of Malaysia, Debra Laprevotte, a former FBI supervisory special agent told American Greed.

Unlike more wealthy countries like Saudi Arabia, Malaysia didnt have the capital to start a sovereign wealth fund on its own and had to borrow the money  putting the Malaysian taxpayers on the hook  to start the 1 Malaysia Development Berhad, or 1MDB.

Bill McMurry, a former FBI supervisory special agent, said that while Low purposefully did not have an official role in 1MDB, he served as a consultant behind the scenes.

And when 1MDB decided, during one of its first projects, to invest $1 billion of Malaysian state funds in a joint venture with a Saudi Arabian oil extraction company, authorities say Low rerouted $700 million of the money into his own account.

His alleged piggy bank only continued to grow after 1MDB partnered with U.S. investment firm, Goldman Sachs, for three separate bond offerings, ultimately raising $6.5 billion.

Within days of getting the proceeds of these bond offerings, the bank accounts show that hundreds of millions of dollars were being sent to shell company accounts held in Swiss banks and then from there  if you follow the financial tracing further  the funds would then flow to other shell companies controlled by Jho Low, said Woo S. Lee, former deputy chief at the Department of Justice.

While Goldman Sachs had been unwilling to do business with Low because of their own questions about the source of his finances, authorities say the company was assured by executive Timothy Leissner that Low didnt have any role in 1MDB.

With billions now at his fingertips, authorities say Low used shell companies to purchase a $30 million penthouse in New Yorks Exclusive Time Warner Center, a $140 million stake in a New York hotel and other lavish pieces of real estate in both New York and Los Angeles.

Then in 2012, he partnered with Sony Music and others to purchase EMI Music Publishing  which owns the song catalogs of artists including Lady Gaga, Bob Dylan and Michael Jackson  for $2.2 billion.

Low also invested in the film studio Red Granite Pictures  which was cofounded by Aziz, his former classmate at Harrow School  in 2011.

While the film studio made several movies, its most notable was the The Wolf of Wall Street which ironically told the true story of Jordan Belfort, who would pleaded guilty to stealing more than $100 million from investors.

They made The Wolf of Wall Street, a movie about criminals spending money in ridiculously lavish ways. Its perfectly fitting that that movie was financed by fraudsters about fraudsters, McMurry said of Lows involvement with the hugely successful film.

In 2014, Low continued to use his ill-gotten gains to purchase a 300-foot-long super yacht  complete with a sauna, helicopter landing pad and jacuzzi  for $250 million, according to "American Greed."

But the next year, Low found himself at the center of exposes by The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal that revealed both his connection to 1MDB and questioned the source of his finances.

By 2016, the U.S. government had issued a forfeiture complaint to seek the recovery of more than $1 billion in assets bought with stolen money. Low eventually relinquished about $700 million in assets, and the government seized gifts Low had given to several of his celebrity friends. They also claimed the rights to several films, including The Wolf of Wall Street, and both Red Granite Pictures and its cofounders surrendered cash and assets to the government.

Federal charges were filed against Leissner, who officials say helped launder 1MDB funds through the U.S. financial system and helped bribe government officials in Malaysia. He later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder money as well as violating the foreign corrupt practices act and agreed to forfeit $43.7 million.

While Leissner is now awaiting sentencing, Low managed to evade authorities. Although he was indicted for conspiring to launder money and conspiring to violate the foreign corrupt practices act, Low fled before his arrest and is said to be living in China with a high-ranking member of the Communist party.

He will never be able to travel freely around the world," McMurry said. He will be a fugitive from the United States for the rest of his life, and the United States will never stop looking for him.

To learn more about the sensational case tune in to American Greed Wednesday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on CNBC.
More than half of workers will opt for a 'green' pension if their scheme makes one available, a new poll reveals.

Around 21million out of 40.7million pension holders want to invest their retirement savings to combat the climate emergency, it found.

The research was carried out by Make My Money Matter, an initiative launched by celebrity film director Richard Curtis and ex-Bank of England governor Mark Carney, who want the UK's retirement pots to be used to tackle climate change.

Campaign achievement: Around 1trillion of UK pension assets are in pension schemes that have set robust net zero targets

Its survey also found that 16 per cent, equivalent to 6.5million people, plan to switch to a sustainable pension over the next 12 months.

Typically, about nine out of 10 people investing in a work pension tend to stick with their scheme's 'default' fund rather than actively choose their own, but the poll suggests that people's priorities might have shifted.

MMMM believes that awareness of the link between pension investing and climate change has soared in the past year, and meanwhile many top firms have now signed up to its goals.

It says around 1trillion of UK pension assets are in schemes that have set robust net zero targets in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, while 1.7trillion remains in schemes that have yet to respond.

Some 70 per cent of schemes have not set strong enough climate targets yet, it claims.

The campaign regards a 'robust' commitment as a target of limiting global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, an interim carbon emissions reduction of 50 per cent by 2030, and net zero emissions by 2050.

Today, Scottish Widows, which looks after nearly 190billion of savings for more than six million people in the UK, revealed plans to achieve a net zero investment portfolio by 2050.

This includes increasing its investment in Blackrock's Climate Transition World Equity fund from 2billion to 5billion, and investing up to 25 billion into companies showing leadership on decarbonisation and climate solutions.

What does responsible investing jargon mean? Two thirds of savers want to invest responsibly but are baffled by jargon. Find out how to tell ESG from SRI and impact investing... and spot greenwashing here.

It also plans to exclude high carbon investments at high risk of becoming 'stranded assets' - meaning they could suddenly tank in value - and put pressure on companies failing to address climate change risks.

Maria Nazarova-Doyle, head of pension investments and responsible investments at Scottish Widows, says: 'Controlling trillions of pounds worth of investments, the pensions industry has a responsibility to act as a responsible steward for the success of climate solutions  and to exclude investments in high-carbon companies which are resistant to change.'

Make My Money Matter welcomed the news that Scottish Widows was 'turning their ambitious net zero commitment into a practical plan of action'.

The campaign found 52 per cent of people would choose a green pension if their provider offered one.

But it says appetite is strongest among younger generations, with 67 per cent of pension holders aged under 34 wanting a green pension, and 36 per cent planning to switch to sustainable investments in the next 12 months.

MMMM surveyed just over 2,000 people in January. Co-founder Richard Curtis says the research shows the public has woken up to the power of their pensions.

'More and more savers can see the links between their money and catastrophic climate change, and as a result are determined to make their money matter.

'Now is the time for the pensions industry to respond to this growing demand for cleaner, greener pensions. In doing so they will be listening to the voices of their members, while ensuring our pensions are building a world fit for our retirement.

'Last year, we saw 1trillion of our pensions committed to robust net zero targets. But this is nowhere near enough. We need to see the remaining 1.7 trillion working to tackle climate crisis, not fuel the fire.'
LONDON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Informatica ( NYSE: INFA), the enterprise cloud data management leader, today announced that it is expanding the availability of its Intelligent Data Management Cloud (IDMC) in the EMEA region with a new UK Point of Delivery (PoD) to support organisations in the UK with a growing need for data sovereignty.

In response to challenging market conditions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, many organisations went digital-first to maintain business continuity, accelerating their cloud migration. This is because data in the cloud is more accessible to every worker, anywhere, driving higher value and enabling better business outcomes. The 2021 IDC-Informatica Global CDO Survey found that nearly twice as many mature data organisations migrated data to the cloud in the past year compared to their less-mature peers. The study also showed that these data-mature organisations saw more than twice the business value from data than their less-mature counterparts.

However, data locality considerations following Brexit have slowed that transition for some heavily regulated industries such as financial services and the public sector. With the UK now outside of the European Union, businesses are navigating increasingly complex data privacy and locality regulations, making UK-hosted cloud services an attractive proposition. With the new IDMC UK PoD, customers have the ability to innovate with their data to drive their organisations forward without worrying about data sovereignty.

"The shift to cloud shows no slowing down as enterprises look to leverage the many benefits of the technology," said Philip Howard, Research Director at Bloor Research International. "However, with complex and ever-changing regulatory requirements around data privacy, locality and the transfer of data, many organisations prefer cloud-native solutions that are based in their country of operation. Local availability of cloud-native solutions can help companies to adhere to strict data sovereignty regimes while still maximising the value of digital transformation initiatives."

"As we recover from the impact of the pandemic, the public and private sector alike are looking to the resilience, agility and efficiencies of the cloud to help accelerate the digital transformations required to boost business," said Emilio Valdes, SVP EMEA & LATAM, Informatica. "Informatica continues to invest to expand regional delivery options and now, with our IDMC UK PoD, customers can leverage the simplicity, productivity and scalability of our Intelligent Data Management Cloud all while making data sovereignty a top priority."

The Informatica IDMC provides the basis for modern cloud data management, enabling enterprises to visualize, analyze and collaborate with their data regardless of location or platform. It's about connecting the right data to the right consumer at the time of need, in a trusted, secure way. With the launch of the UK PoD, customers can enjoy the full breadth of services including the Cloud Data Marketplace, designed to intuitively increase data sharing, improve productivity and enable organisations to make more informed decisions.

The Intelligent Data Management Cloud UK PoD joins the existing EMEA regional PoDs and is available for subscription now. For more information or a free trial please visit https://www.informatica.com/trials.html

About Informatica



Informatica ( NYSE:INFA), an Enterprise Cloud Data Management leader, empowers businesses to realize the transformative power of data. We have pioneered a new category of software, the Informatica Intelligent Data Management Cloud(IDMC), powered by AI and a cloud-first, cloud-native, end-to-end data management platform that connects, manages, and unifies data across any multi-cloud, hybrid system, empowering enterprises to modernize and advance their data strategies. Over 5,000 customers in more than 100 countries and 84 of the Fortune 100 rely on Informatica to drive data-led digital transformation.

The information provided herein is subject to change without notice. In addition, the development, release and timing of any product or functionality described today remain at the sole discretion of Informatica and should not be relied upon in making a purchasing decision, nor as a representation, warranty, or commitment to deliver specific products or functionality in the future.

Contact:

Informatica Public Relations

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SOURCE Informatica
An anti-vax priest in Italy who said Covid jabs contained the cells of aborted embryos has died from coronavirus.

Don Paolo Romeo, 51, was a parish priest at Santo Stefano Abbey in Genoa, northern Italy.

He died of complications from the virus after a month in hospital.

Before his death he endorsed the conservative beliefs of followers of French Catholic archbishop Marcel Francois Marie Joseph Lefebvre, namely that some Covid vaccines were made from cells taken from aborted embryos.

Don Paolo Romeo (pictured), 51, was a parish priest at Santo Stefano Abbey in Genoa, northern Italy

The Santo Stefano Abbey wrote a tribute to him on Facebook which read: 'Today our beloved Don Paolo has risen to Heaven surrounded by the affection of his relative and the prayer of all his faithful.

'May the Lord reward him for all the good he has done here on this earth and may he forgive his shortcomings even if there were any.

'Let us remember Don Paolo with these words of Saint Paolo the apostle, whom he loved: ''I fought the good battle, I finished my race, I kept my faith.

The Santo Stefano Abbey wrote a tribute to him on Facebook which read: 'Today our beloved Don Paolo has risen to Heaven surrounded by the affection of his relative and the prayer of all his faithful'

'''Now I only have the crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous judge, will deliver me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all those who eagerly wait for his manifestation''.'

The news of Don Paolo's death came on the same day an elderly anti-vax couple died from the virus within half an hour of each other at a hospital in Villafranca near Verona.

Irma Gilioli, 86, and Annibale Meneghelli, 93, died from complications with the virus 16 days after being hospitalised.

Just last Monday another anti-vaxxer in Italy died Covid after he tore off his oxygen mask and insisted he did not have the disease.

The man, named as Luigi Cossellu by local media and who was admitted on January 16, reportedly denied the existence of Covid-19 and had refused to get the vaccine.

The man, named as Luigi Cossellu (pictured) by local media and who was admitted on January 16, reportedly denied the existence of Covid-19 and had refused to get the vaccine

Doctors immediately recognised the severity of the 28-year-old's condition upon his arrival at the Santa Maria Goretti Hospital in Latina, found south of Rome.

They diagnosed him with acute respiratory failure due to coronavirus, and transferred him to an intensive care ward on his second day at the facility.

However, Cossellu refused treatment, and tore off his oxygen mask.

Doctors were able to persuade the man to put the mask back on, the general manager of Latina's ASL (Local Health Unit) Silvia Cavalli told Italy24news.

Doctors diagnosed the Italian with acute respiratory failure due to coronavirus, and transferred him to an intensive care ward on his second day at the facility

But his cooperation was too late. His condition deteriorated, and he succumbed to the disease on his fifth day in hospital.

Alessio D'Amato, the councillor for health of the Lazio Region, urged young people to get vaccinated, pointing to the 28-year-old's death. 'Covid also hits young people hard. vaccination is important,' he told the news outlet.

Italy24news also reported that a 28-year-old pregnant anti-vaxxer died overnight between January 20 and 21 in Rome.

She was reportedly in her 31st week of pregnancy, but was not vaccinated.

The news outlet reported that she had symptoms for 10 days, and was having difficulty breathing, and within a week her condition had dramatically dropped off, forcing doctors to perform a Caesarean section to deliver the baby.

But despite their best efforts, they were unable to save the woman, who later died.

A number of Italian anti-vaxxers have hit the news throughout the pandemic, particularly since the government introduced a vaccination mandate for over-50s that will come into power from February 1.

At the end of last year, a fervent Italian anti-vaxxer who gained a cult following after his regular phone-ins to a popular radio show was killed by Covid-19.

Maurizio Buratti, 61, known to his fans as Mauro from Mantua, had boasted of being a 'plague spreader' after deliberately going to a Carrefour supermarket without a mask while feeling ill and having a temperature of 38 degrees, just days before his hospitalisation.

Maurizio Buratti (pictured), a fervent Italian anti-vaxxer who gained a cult following after his regular phone-ins to a popular radio show, has died from Covid

He said he was 'defending the constitution' by ignoring public health advice, and refused to get tested because he believed the swabs caused the virus.

The frequent caller to the Zanzara radio station - who also promoted anti-Semtitic conspiracy theories - was eventually intubated and later died.

In another instance last month, Italian police thwarted a gang behind a huge anti-vax scam that helped people sign up to get the vaccine only to have it thrown away and not injected - in a ploy to get a vaccine passport.

According to the investigation, a network of dozens of people involved bringing people from all over Italy to the vaccination centre in Ancona where they paid up to 400 (330) for a fake jab.

The nurse who was supposed to inject them would squirt the dose into the rubbish bin before she would put a plaster on the patient and give them a 'green pass', which shows proof of vaccination.

A vaccine mandate in Italy requires anyone over the age of 50 to be vaccinated from February 1. The unvaccinated risk paying a large fine or losing their jobs.

Under the mandate, the only alternative to getting the vaccine is to recover from Covid-19, due to the body's development of antibodies during an infection.

This has also prompted people to host 'infection' parties, where people would pay to be in close proximity to those infected with Covid-19, in the hope they would catch the virus, go on to recover, and thus become eligible for the exception.

The news of the man's death comes Italy appears to have reached a peak in the number of Omicron infections, with cases of the highly contagious variant now on the decline, the country's Covid Emergency chief said Monday.

'There is good news: it seems that we have reached the plateau of the curve for what concerns Omicron and it is going downhill,' commissioner Francesco Paolo Figliuolo told journalists in Milan.

Police in Italy arrested a nurse (pictured) who took bribes to give people fake proof of vaccination

Italy was the first European nation to be hit by the pandemic in early 2020 and remains one of the worst affected, with the EU's highest reported death toll, with nearly 144,000 victims.

A large proportion of the deaths have been in wealthy Lombardy in the north, which recorded the first case.

'In the past two days, even in Lombardy the number of admissions to the hospital is lower than the number of discharged. This bodes well,' Figliuolo said.

The Omicron variant, which is very contagious but generally leads to less severe infection among vaccinated people, is now the dominant variant in Europe.
KYODO NEWS - Feb 3, 2022 - 17:53 | All, Japan

A Japanese court on Thursday became the second to rule that the vote weight disparity in last year's general election was "in a state of unconstitutionality," but it also stopped short of nullifying the outcome as sought by plaintiffs.

The ruling by the Osaka High Court was the third to be handed down in a slew of lawsuits filed at 14 high courts and their branches nationwide over the 2.08-fold disparity in the weight of votes between the most and least populated single-seat constituencies in October's House of Representatives election.

The Takamatsu High Court made a similar ruling Tuesday, while the Tokyo High Court dismissed the case Wednesday after concluding the election was constitutional. High court rulings will be completed by March 9, after which the Supreme Court is expected to make a unified decision.

So far, the top court has found vote weight disparities above 2.0 to be constitutionally problematic, but it has never nullified an election result. It decided in December 2018 that the vote weight disparity in the previous lower house election in 2017 was constitutional.

Vote disparity levels were above 2.0 in 29 constituencies in the 2021 election, widening from 1.98-fold in 2017, when electoral districts were rezoned.

Despite the two elections following the same zoning, Presiding Judge Teruyoshi Ota said a change in population had "resulted in a situation that violates the Constitution's requirement for equality in the weight of votes" and should be corrected.

But he concluded that the current zoning did not violate the Constitution and it "would have been virtually impossible to correct (the disparity)" as the extent was only learned around four months before the last election, when preliminary census figures were released.

According to government data, the highest disparity in the weight of votes based on the number of eligible voters as of Oct. 31 was 2.08-fold between Tottori Prefecture's No. 1 constituency in western Japan with 230,959 voters and Tokyo's No. 13 district with 480,247 voters.

Among the six prefectures in the Kinki region of western Japan, the largest disparity with Tottori Prefecture's No. 1 constituency was Hyogo's No. 6 district at 2.01.

Related coverage:

Japan court questions Oct. election outcome over vote-weight gap

FOCUS: Japan election year puts PM Kishida's ability to deliver in focus

FOCUS: Despite victory, PM Kishida faces challenges as next vote looms
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ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi set off a bomb that blew himself up during a raid by U.S. special forces

President Joe Biden confirmed the leader of ISIS is dead after he blew himself and his family up during a raid by U.S. commandos on a house in northwest Syria on Thursday.

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi set off a bomb that killed himself as well as members of this family, the White House said.

Thirteen were killed, including six children and four women during the mission, which involved 24 Special Operations commandos backed by attack jets, Reaper drones and helicopter gunships.

'At the beginning of the operation, the terrorist target exploded a bomb that killed him and members of his own family, including women and children,' a senior administration official said.

In his statement Biden said al-Qurayshi was 'taken off the battlefield.' He added that he would address the operation in remarks later Thursday.

'Last night at my direction, U.S. military forces in northwest Syria successfully undertook a counterterrorism operation to protect the American people and our Allies, and make the world a safer place,' the president said in a statement early Thursday morning.

'Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshithe leader of ISIS. All Americans have returned safely from the operation.'

Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and national security aides monitored a live-feed of the operation from the White House Situation Room, according to a photo released by the administration.

U.S. special forces landed in helicopters and assaulted the house in a rebel-held corner of Syria, near the border with Turkey, clashing for two hours with gunmen, witnesses said in local reports.

The raid targeted a large house in Atmeh in the Idlib region of Syria where the ISIS leader was hiding. The two-story house was left with its top floor shattered and blood spattered inside. A journalist on assignment for The Associated Press and several residents noted that they saw body parts scattered near the site.

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, also known as Abdullah Qardash or Hajji Abdullah, became the leader of the ISIS terrorist organization after former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi also blew himself up in a similar raid by U.S. forces in 2019 in the nearby town of Barisha.

President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and members of the Presidents national security team observe the counterterrorism operation responsible for removing from the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi in this photo from the White House

President Biden statement on al-Qurayshi raid Last night at my direction, U.S. military forces in northwest Syria successfully undertook a counterterrorism operation to protect the American people and our Allies, and make the world a safer place. Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshithe leader of ISIS. All Americans have returned safely from the operation. I will deliver remarks to the American people later this morning. May God protect our troops Advertisement

The operation is thought to be the largest U.S.-led raid in the Idlib region since the 2019 assault which killed al-Baghdadi.

It was conducted in a similar style to the raid which resulted in the death of Osama Bin Laden in 2011.

U.S commandos deployed via helicopter under cover of darkness, surrounded the house and ordered women and children to evacuate via loudspeakers, before engaging opposition fighters in combat.

The helicopters then deployed their ordnance following the ground assault, with several strikes reducing large sections of the house to rubble - though some of the damage is believed to have come as a result of the target's suicide blast.

'The mission was successful. There were no U.S. casualties,' said Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby in a statement.

But local residents and activists said several civilians were killed in the battle, with the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and first responders from Syrian Civil Defense reporting 13 deaths including several women and children.

The top floor of the three-story house was almost totally destroyed; a room there had collapsed, sending white bricks tumbling to the ground below.

The anti-jihadist coalition is led by the United States but its operations feature forces from several countries including the UK, France, Canada and Turkey.

Several residents, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals following the raid, said the mission involved helicopters, explosions and exchanges of heavy fire between ground troops.

A general view shows on February 3, 2022 the scene following an overnight raid by US special operations forces against a suspected high-ranking jihadist in Atmeh, in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, which left at least 13 people dead

An aerial view of wreckages around the site after an operation carried out by US forces targeting a high ranking jihadist in northern Syria last night

People inspect the destroyed house where the ISIS leader was staying

A Syrian man walks on bloodstained floors, February 3, 2022, at the scene following an overnight raid by US special operations forces against suspected jihadists in Syria

A Syrian man takes a picture of a blood soaked kitchen at the scene of a US anti-terror raid in Atmeh, Idlib

The raid by the U.S. commandos targeted a suspected jihadist leader in a house in Syria's northern town of Atmeh. The operation, which residents say lasted about two hours, jolted the village near the Turkish border - an area dotted with camps for internally displaced people from Syria's civil war. The target was killed in Atmeh, located mere miles from the town of Barisha where former ISIS leader al-Baghdadi was killed in 2019

Several pictured that have emerged from the scene show considerable damage to the outside of the house, with blood spattering the walls inside

A Syrian youngster stares at the aftermath of a US anti-terror strike in northern Syria

The aftermath of the raid saw considerable damage to the house, with extensive bloodstains suggesting a number of casualties among fighters and civilians

An aerial view of wreckages around the site on the outskirts of Atmeh in Idlib, Syria, following last night's operation

Children's clothing is pictured littered among the debris, showing the remnants of families and civilian life destroyed by the fighting and helicopter strikes

The wreckage of the military helicopter that US forces had to destroy due to technical malfunction during an operation carried out by US forces, is seen near Afrin's Jindires town

The helicopter was used in the raid on the ISIS leader

Social media and witness accounts suggest the battle lasted around two hours, with jihadist fighters attempting to repel the US commandos with rocket-propelled grenades and machine guns.

Idlib is dominated by the Al-Qaida group and its affiliates including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and is home to several top al-Qaida operatives.

But other militants, including those from ISIS, have also found refuge in the region, which is broadly held by Turkey-backed fighters.

The U.S. has in the past used drones to kill top al-Qaida operatives in Idlib, which at one point was home to the group's biggest concentration of leaders since the days of Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan.

Who controls Idlib and why is it a terrorist stronghold? Idlib is a city in northwestern Syria, and is the capital of the region of the Idlib Governorate. The area is the last enclave in Syria to actively oppose the government of Bashar al-Assad, is home to more than three million people and is dominated by jihadists. The region is mostly administered by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group led by former members of al-Qaeda. HTS split off from al-Qaeda in 2016. But the region is still home to several al-Qaeda operatives and affiliates, as well as several ISIS members. A series of refugee camps made up of people displaced by the Syrian civil war make Idlib the perfect territory for jihadists to hide from U.S. anti-terror operations. 'Al-Qaeda uses Syria as a safe haven to rebuild, coordinate with external affiliates, and plan external operations,' said Central Command spokesman Army Major John Rigsbee in October. Advertisement

The fact that special forces landed on the ground - in a similar style to the way in which US Navy SEALs killed Osama Bin Laden in 2011 - suggests the target was believed to be of high value.

A U.S. airstrike killed al-Qaida's second in command, former bin Laden aide Abu al-Kheir al-Masri, in Syria earlier this year.

The Pentagon provided no details on who was the target of last night's raid, or if any combatants or civilians on the ground were killed or injured.

But the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said that 13 people died in the operation including six children and four women - a tally echoed by first responders from Syrian Civil Defense.

The death of civilians not linked to the anti-terror operation carries echoes of the U.S.' reputation for collateral damage.

It comes after a botched drone strike in Kabul in the final hours of the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan last year killed 10 civilians, including seven children.

The strike was initially defended by the Pentagon as having targeted a potential car bomber, but it was later admitted to be tragic blunder.

Residents and activists described witnessing a large ground assault, with U.S. forces using loudspeakers urging women and children to leave the area.

There was at least one major explosion. A U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that one of the helicopters in the raid suffered a mechanical problem and had to be blown up on the ground.

U.S. forces have been known to destroy downed aircraft to prevent technology falling into enemy hands, though others have argued it is a tactic used to destroy evidence.

Taher al-Omar, an Idlib-based activist, also said he witnessed clashes between fighters and the U.S. forces.

Much of the damage to the house, a three-story structure surrounded by olive trees in the countryside, looked to have been caused by American helicopter strikes.

But a senior American military official told the New York Times there was an explosion inside the house that was not caused by U.S. firepower, and was more likely caused by the target of the raid blowing himself up.

The military operation got attention on social media, with tweets from the region describing helicopters firing around the building near Atmeh.

Flight-tracking data also suggested that multiple drones were circling the city of Sarmada and the village of Salwah, just north of the raid's location.

Last night's operation is thought to be the largest U.S.-led raid in the area since the 2019 assault which killed Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi (L) and was conducted in a similar style to the raid which resulted in the death of Osama Bin Laden in 2011

Children's clothing is pictured littered among the debris following the helicopter strikes

The raid left at least 13 people dead, including civilians

The target of the raid was a large house, with some parts of the structure completely reduced to rubble while other sections were left with considerable damage

The operation carried out against an individual suspected to be affiliated with the Daesh/ISIS terrorist group

Syrian civil defense search on February 3, 2022 the scene following an overnight raid by US special operations forces against suspected jihadists in Atmeh, in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib

A view of damage after a helicopter fired on a house killing 13 people including children and women during the operation carried out by US-led coalition in Idlib, Syria on February 3, 2022

The aftermath of the battle shows considerable external and internal damage at the house in northern Syria

The anti-terror raid comes amid a series of efforts by the Islamic State to reassert itself, with the group having recently carried out some of its biggest attacks since it was defeated in 2019.

ISIS has launched a series of operations in the region as of late - the most recent being a 10-day assault in late January to seize a prison in northeastern Syria.

A U.S.-backed Kurdish-led force said more than 120 of their fighters and prison workers died in the effort to thwart the ISIS plot amid bitter fighting which began on January 20 and lasted for over a week.

The prison houses at least 3,000 Islamic State group detainees, and the ISIS operation to free them suggests the group is attempting to re-arm itself and add to its ranks.

Syrians gather on February 3, 2022 at the scene following an overnight raid by US special forces against suspected jihadists in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib which left at least nine people dead, including three civilians

Roofs and walls collapsed, trapping people under the rubble. At least 13 people are thought to have died in the blasts

Garage doors at the compound are pictured sporting huge holes following the assault

Syrian civil defense workers evacuate a body over a destroyed staircase following the overnight raid by US special forces

Syrian civil defense workers evacuate a body following the overnight raid by US special forces

A Syrian man checks the damage in a house on February 3, 2022 at the scene of an overnight raid by US special operations

Residents and activists described witnessing a large ground assault, with U.S. forces using loudspeakers urging women and children to leave the area (abandoned room pictured with mattresses and clothes littering the floor)

The U.S.-led coalition carried out airstrikes and deployed American personnel in Bradley Fighting Vehicles to the prison area to help the Kurdish forces defeat ISIS fighters.

The attempted prison break was the biggest military operation by the extremist group since ISIS was defeated and its remaining members scattered in 2019.

At a news conference on Monday, an Syrian Democratic Forces senior official Nowruz Ahmad said the prison assault was part of a broader plot that ISIS had been preparing for a long time.

Other separate ISIS assaults were carried out in other neighborhoods in Hassakeh, Shaddada and areas of Deir el-Zour in eastern Syria and on the al-Hol camp in the south, which houses thousands of families of ISIS members.
By Victor Gilinsky and Henry Sokolski, KYODO NEWS - Feb 3, 2022 - 12:29 | All, Japan, World

A Jan. 26 agreement to cooperate on fast nuclear reactor technology between the Japanese Atomic Energy Agency and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. with American TerraPower LLC raises worrisome international security issues.

The agreement's immediate goal is building a 350-megawatt nuclear plant, called Natrium, in the U.S. state of Wyoming, to demonstrate TerraPower's technology.

Unlike fast reactor projects in the past, which were fueled with plutonium, a nuclear explosive, and that used "reprocessing," or chemical separation to extract plutonium from spent or irradiated power reactor fuel, Natrium is to be fueled with uranium enriched to a level below that usable for weapons.

TerraPower says no "reprocessing," or chemical separation will be involved, at least at this stage. That would seem to allay security concerns, but there is more to the story.

The Jan. 26 agreement follows a broader agreement between industry minister Koichi Hagiuda and U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm to cooperate in the development of fast reactors.

Related coverage:

Japan consortium, U.S. firm to cooperate on fast reactor

These are billed as "advanced reactors," but they are not new. The concept goes back to the start of the nuclear age.

The attraction, historically for Japan, when uranium was thought to be scarce, was that a fast reactor can make more efficient use of uranium fuel (most of which is discarded by current reactors.)

It does this by turning its uranium fuel into plutonium as the reactor operates.

It can be operated to produce more plutonium than it consumes as fuel, from which comes the label, fast "breeder" reactor.

Despite large and expensive fast reactor research and development projects in the United States and Japan, nuclear technologists were never able to make them commercially viable.

Safety problems led to high cost. Reprocessing used fuel to extract plutonium is expensive.

And the advantage of using less uranium disappeared when geologic exploration discovered vast uranium deposits.

Nevertheless, Japan's nuclear bureaucracy has long planned, as did its counterpart in the United States, to rely on plutonium-fueled reactors.

That is why Japan had its fuel reprocessed in Britain and France and now has in the country an enormous stockpile of plutonium, which the government plans to use as fuel, and why Japan has built an enormously expensive reprocessing plant at Rokkashu for continuing to extract plutonium.

So how does the TerraPower Natrium design fit in?

It is based on a GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) Prism plutonium-fueled fast-breeder design.

Fast reactors are very flexible in choice of fuel and can switch easily.

TerraPower's avowed purpose is to produce a widely exported power plant.

It is possible, in fact likely, that international customers will want to run the reactors in the breeder mode, in which case they would have access to copious amounts of plutonium, the stuff of bombs.

This creates the classic concern of proliferation, that nuclear weapons would be within easy arm's reach of many countries.

International inspection could not cope with such a situation.

There is a special concern about plutonium from fast-breeder reactors: about half of it is super-weapons grade plutonium which is even more useful to make nuclear weapons than weapons-grade plutonium.

The Indians and Chinese seem to appreciate the weapons usefulness of fast-breeder reactors.

The Indians have kept their fast reactor's plutonium production available for military use and off-limits to inspection by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

And China's secretive behavior around its fast reactor projects has raised U.S. Defense Department concerns that China intends to make military use of its plutonium production.

So far, the institutions guiding U.S.-Japanese fast reactor cooperation have all been tied to the nuclear energy sector.

For sensible international security policy to prevail, institutions with a broader view must assert themselves.

Just as war is too consequential to be left to generals, so decisions on nuclear industrial projects with major security implications are too important to be left to technologists.

Regarding commercializing fast reactors, someone needs to say no.

(Victor Gilinsky serves as program adviser to the Nonproliferation Policy Education Center, is a physicist and was a commissioner of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission during the Ford, Carter and Reagan administrations. Henry Sokolski is the executive director of the Nonproliferation Policy Education Center in Arlington, Virginia, and author of "Underestimated: Our Not So Peaceful Nuclear Future." He served as deputy for nonproliferation policy in the office of the U.S. secretary of defense during the George H.W. Bush administration.)
Todd Chrisley and his daughter Savannah appear to have arrived in the nick of time to save her former fiance Nic Kerdiles after he was allegedly suicidal earlier this week.

The 52-year-old Chrisley Knows Best star and his 24-year-old daughter called in to 911 to get help from police on Monday in audio obtained by TMZ.

Todd, whose recognizably accented voice is apparently heard on the tape, apparently tells the operator he believes Kerdiles is suffering from a psychotic episode and is in the kitchen of a home in Nashville with a gun.

Crisis: Todd Chrisley, 52, and his daughter Savannah Chrisley, 52, called 911 on Monday after her former fiance Nic Kerdiles (pictured center) allegedly threatened to kill himself inside a Nashville home on Monday while holding a gun, TMZ reported on Wednesday

He says on the tape that Keriles 'had the gun under his chin,' though he says he had removed it by the time he called.

A woman who is referred to as Savannah can be heard screaming in distress shortly after the start of the call, and Todd calls her over before telling the operator that her ex has 'the gun to his head.'

'No! God! No! No!' the frantic voice screams repeatedly in the distance.

'Look at what you're doing to her,' shouts the voice that sounds like Todd.

Frantic: A voice that appears to belong to Todd says that Kerdiles is holding a gun to his head in the audio of the 911 call, while a woman he refers to as Savannah can be heard screaming in the background; Savannah and Todd seen with Jake Millar in 2016 in NYC

Mental health issues: The man on the call tells the operator that Kerdiles is suffering a psychotic episode

Injury: The person who appears to be Todd says they need a medic because Savannah allegedly cut her hand after breaking a window to get at the gun

Then he says they might need a 'medic,' as Savannah had allegedly broken a window to get to Kerdiles and cut her hand in the process.

'We have the gun now,' he adds.

At the end of the audio the man who is allegedly Todd says that he threw the gun into the bushes, and he adds that Kerdiles needs to go to a hospital for treatment.

But on Wednesday evening, both Todd and Savannah appeared to confirm they made the call by appearing on an Instagram video jointly posted to both of their pages that featured Kerdiles.

They were antagonistic about the reporting and claimed that Savannah's ex had recently suffered a bout with COVID-19, and in the wake of that he had combined medication he was taking for the illness with alcohol, which they blamed on the alleged suicidal episode.

Update: Todd and Savannah appeared to confirm the call when they appeared with Nic on an Instagram video Wednesday. They claimed that Kerdiles became depressed because he had recently had COVID-19 and paired medications that can cause depression with alcohol

Todd referenced his daughter and Kerdiles former relationship and said he didn't care if they were engaged or dating or just friends.

Todd also claimed that Kerdiles was taking a medication for baldness that could cause depression when paired with alcohol, which Kerdiles didn't dispute.

The trio seemed much more upbeat by the end of the video and were smiling and laughing while urging viewers to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Savannah and Nic originally called off their engagement in September 2020 after three years, but she revealed to E! News in August 2021 that they had restarted their relationship, though their engagement was still off.

If you or a person you know has suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text STRENGTH to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Legendary game show host John Burgo Burgess is in a stable condition after being rushed hospital last night.

The 78-year-old was admitted to the intensive care unit at Royal Perth Hospital as he receives treatment for a bacterial infection.

It is understood not to be a life and death situation and he is in good spirits.

Manager Evan Broadway told The West Australian that Burgess is due to be discharged on Friday.

Burgo is now a radio presenter with Perth station 6iX but best known for hosting shows such as Wheel of Fortune, Burgos Catch Phrase, and Pass the Buck.
Melissa McCarthy is best known over the past decade for her comedic touch in such hit films as Bridesmaids (2011), The Heat (2013), Tammy (2014), St. Vincent (2014), Spy (2015) and The Boss (2016).

And on Wednesday the funny lady put her talent and charisma on display for all to see when she hit the streets of the Studio City neighborhood of Los Angeles.

The comedian, 51, was seen filming some sort of a Valentine's Day project along the sidewalk in front of an array of storefronts in the San Fernando Valley.



Action! Melissa McCarty, 51, put her comedic skills and charisma on display while filming along the streets of the Studio City neighborhood of Los Angeles on Wednesday

For the afternoon shoot, McCarthy was styled in a full-length pink and white-patterned maxi dress with ruffles throughout the bottom portion.

The long-sleeve dress had a loose fit and was cinched in at the waist with a brown belt.

The Illinois native also donned pair of white Birkenstocks sandals, and accessorized her look with a matching pink-colored Kisses scarf.

On this day, she had her dark brown tresses styled long and flowing several inches past her neck with some natural waves.

Dolled up: McCarthy was styled in a full-length pink and white-patterned maxi dress with ruffles throughout the bottom portion with a pair of white Birkenstocks sandals and a matching pink-colored Kisses scarf

Scene stealer: The comedian and actress was all smiles as the two ladies moved along the sidewalk, in front of storefronts, as the cameras rolled

Stunned: McCarthy appeared to be startled by something while shooting the project

At one point, with the cameras rolling, she was seen walking along the sidewalk with a young woman dressed in an old school Letterman's sweater and faded denim jeans.

The two ladies strolled past several storefronts as they chatted away with each other.

During some downtime, McCarthy was seen chatting with a young girl, who may have been her daughter Vivian, who was sitting down on a makeshift bench scribbling away on a small board, all while wearing headphones over her ears.

While chatting on the phone, McCarthy waved at a young girl to get her attention.

Take 5: The Bridesmaids star took a phone call in-between shooting scenes

Eventually, the actress got her attention and the two struck up a conversation.

Along with Vivian, 14, McCarthy and Falcone are also the proud parents to 11-year-old daughter Georgette.

Most recently, McCarthy has been shooting the Netflix comedy series God's Favorite Idiot, which she stars alongside husband Ben Falcone, along with Leslie Bibb, Kevin Dunn, Yanic Truesdale, Usman Ally, Ana Scotney, Chris Sandiford and Steve Mallory.

The series, which was created by Falcone, will consist of 16 episodes, with the first batch of eight episodes set to premiere sometime in 2022.

In-between takes: During some downtime, McCarthy was seen chatting with a young girl, who may have been her daughter Vivian, who was sitting down on a makeshift bench

Making her mark: McCarthy first gained recognition for her role on the hit comedy-drama series Gilmore Girls from 2000-2007, and then with such comedy films as Bridesmaids (2011) and The Boss (2016)

Mommy duty: Along with Vivian, 14, McCarthy and Falcone are also proud parents to a younger daughter Georgette, 11
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Previous studies have shown that wisdom is a personality trait underpinning mental health and well-being. Recently, researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine looked at gender differences relative to wisdom, using two different validated scales.

The study, publishing in the February 3, 2022, online edition of Frontiers in Psychology, assessed gender differences in wisdom and associated constructs, including depression, loneliness, well-being, optimism and resilience.

Six hundred and fifty-nine community-based participants, ages 27 to 103, participated in the study and completed both the San Diego Wisdom Scale (SD-WISE) and the 3-Dimensional Wisdom Scale (3-D-WS).

The SD-WISE includes 24 items related to six defined components of wisdom: pro-social behaviors (empathy and compassion), emotional regulation, self-reflection, acceptance of uncertainty and diversity of perspectives, decisiveness and social advising. The 3-D-WS contains 39 items covering three dimensions of wisdom: cognitive, affective or compassionate/and reflective.

The researchers found that, in general, women scored higher on compassion-related items and on self-reflection while men scored higher on cognitive-related items and on emotional regulation. Generally speaking, the total 3-D-WS score was higher in women than in men, but there was no gender difference in the total score on the SD-WISE.

In both women and men, wisdom was associated with greater mental well-being, optimism, and resilience and lower levels of depression and loneliness.

"We wanted to gain information on potential differences in wisdom between men and women that could impact well-being," said senior author Dilip V. Jeste, MD, senior associate dean for the Center of Healthy Aging and Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Neurosciences at UC San Diego School of Medicine. "We found women and men have different relative strengths in wisdom, likely driven by both sociocultural and biological factors."

"Our latest findings are only a piece of the overall puzzle. There are several paths toward achieving a wise life. People approach wisdom differently and looking at gender is one way to assess those potential differences," said Emily Treichler, Ph.D., first author of the study and assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UC San Diego School of Medicine and a research psychologist in the Desert Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC) at the VA San Diego Healthcare System.

"Having a better understanding of wisdom and how to improve it has health benefits and value for individuals and society. Other studies have shown that the levels of certain components of wisdom like empathy/compassion and emotional regulation can be increased with appropriate psycho-social and behavioral interventions. Studies such as ours may help tailor wisdom interventions to individuals based on specific characteristics."

The researchers emphasize there were limitations of the study: It was cross-sectional rather than longitudinal. And it did not look at wisdom profiles of non-binary people or ask people whether they identify as transgender, and that should be one of the next steps.

"More work needs to be done, but we can take what we have learned and apply it to future studies to make the results applicable to different groups, with the ultimate goal of promoting healthier lives," said Jeste.

Co-authors include: Tsung-Chin Wu and Xin Tu with UC San Diego; Barton Palmer, Rebecca Daly, and Ellen Lee with UC San Diego, VA San Diego Healthcare System, and VA Desert Pacific Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center; and Michael Thomas with Colorado State University.

Explore further Can seven questions determine how wise you are?

More information: Emily B. H. Treichler et al, Women and Men Differ in Relative Strengths in Wisdom Profiles: A Study of 659 Adults Across the Lifespan, Frontiers in Psychology (2022). Journal information: Frontiers in Psychology Emily B. H. Treichler et al, Women and Men Differ in Relative Strengths in Wisdom Profiles: A Study of 659 Adults Across the Lifespan,(2022). DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.769294
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP)  ASEAN will not invite Myanmar's foreign minister to an upcoming meeting, a Cambodian official said Thursday, as the regional bloc of nations struggles to agree on whether to include senior representatives of Myanmar's army rulers.

Cambodian foreign ministry spokesman Chum Sounry told The Associated Press that member states failed to reach a consensus on inviting Wunna Maung Lwin to its retreat of foreign ministers scheduled for Feb. 16-17 in the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh.

Wunna Maung Lwin was appointed Myanmar's top diplomat after its military ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on Feb. 1 of 2021.

Myanmars security forces have been blamed for the deaths of more than 1,500 civilians in brutally putting down protests against army rule. There is now a low-level insurgency that some experts believe amounts to civil war.

Cambodia had earlier postponed this years foreign ministry retreat for what it said were reasons related to the COVID-19 pandemic, but there was speculation it was linked to the disagreement over Myanmar.

The decision reflects divisions within the 10-member regional group over Myanmars lack of cooperation in implementing measures that ASEAN agreed upon in April last year to help ease that countrys violent political crisis after the armys takeover.

The head of Myanmars military government, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, was not invited to last Octobers virtual summit meeting of ASEAN leaders. That rebuke was issued shortly after Myanmar declined to let the bloc's special envoy meet with Suu Kyi, who has been in detention since her ouster. Indonesia, ASEANs biggest member, and Malaysia have been the most critical of Myanmars military government.

ASEAN was chaired by Brunei when it snubbed Min Aung Hlaing, but under its annual rotation system, Cambodia now chairs the group. Prime Minister Hun Sen has said he believes it is important that Myanmar attend the next summit meeting.

Story continues

Hun Sen declared in December that Myanmar has the right to join the summit because the principal rule of ASEAN is that member states shall not interfere with each other's internal affairs.

He also paid an official visit to Myanmar in January, becoming the first head of government to do so since last years takeover. Hun Sen, who has held power for 36 years, is an authoritarian ruler seen as sympathetic to Myanmar's generals.

Cambodian foreign ministry spokesman Chum Sounry said Myanmar has been asked to send a non-political representative to this months retreat. It had the same option at October's summit meeting but did not appoint one. Myanmar has not yet announced its intentions.

Chum Sounry, replying to a query by AP, said the failure to reach a consensus about inviting Myanmar to this months meeting was due to little progress in carrying out the ASEANs 5-Point Consensus, agreed to by all the groups members, including Myanmar.

ASEAN leaders at last April's emergency meeting on Myanmar reached a consensus to issue a statement calling for the immediate cessation of violence, a dialogue among all concerned parties, mediation by an ASEAN special envoy, as well as the provision of humanitarian aid via the regional bloc.

Myanmar did not reject the demands but has done little to implement it.
Choosing the accurate virtual data room or best data room providers might be hard. An array of providers exist; however, not all of them cater to particular business needs. Another issue is how to set up the purchased VDR without facing difficulties. Today, this virtual data room review will help you through with the setup, and speak of the tips that can promote efficient due diligence or venture capital transactions.

What to Consider Before Turning to Data Room Services

The first thing to do before the setup of the data room software is to have a clean-cut scheme of the involved key documents for due diligence (or other operations), as well as key roles (people who will access those documents). Think of the VDR as a desktop with folders, or a room with cabinets. Each will have its particular documents, and keys to open those folders/cabinets. Then, if you are the main one, think of who will be authorized to access all the files or a part of them alongside you. For instance, VDR allows you to hide some files from public access.

In simple terms, you should act as an administrator who will supervise the projects, documents involved, and guests who can view and edit them for effective transactions.

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The second thing is to divide the files according to their importance and protection. Depending on your choice of provider, a number of protection features may exist. For instance, the following security perks may be offered:

Remote Shredding. The access to the file is controlled via document encryption. Even after a document has been downloaded, access permissions might be withdrawn;

Watermarks. When a document is read, printed, or downloaded, you may allow automated watermarks to appear on top of it. Watermarks can be customized with the users identity, IP address, time, and date of document access;

Fence view. One user can only view the center of the document because the remainder is hidden behind a sliding barred screen;

Spreadsheet viewer. Some virtual data rooms will have an exclusive feature of securely examining and analyzing Excel documents online. The viewer can download, decrypt, watermark, and render documents in any web browser, not in PDF, but in original secure Excel format.

Note, it is always up to you to decide on the protection of files and their importance for further storage. You can make the documents or certain due diligence folders extremely secure with no printing, no screenshots, no downloading permissions, and a large digital watermark. On the other side, you may also make the involved files simple to download and distribute.

Now, lets head to the actual setup of your picked online data room software.

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Tips on Virtual Data Rooms Setup

Ideally, people who are far from such software should seek experts guidance. However, lets relieve you a bit. Modern virtual data room providers ensure to make their software so intuitive and user-friendly that the whole setup is manageable for non-tech-savvy people too. Just follow the next basic steps:

Open your VDR, and check what security measures and features are available. As was hinted above, there might be access control, watermarking, copy protection, expiration, NDA, and reporting all in one platform. Set up the reporting. You should observe how, when, and for how long your receivers/third users may interact with your files. Simply, you should have a full history of users activity within certain folders and documents. Reports are crucial for those who want to know which investors are more interested in the process. You can receive projects reminders and follow-ups. Divide the data rooms per stage. If you want to guide the involved parties per stage, from the offer to actual investment, separate the files. Some folders might be open for checking only to those who show a strong interest in investment. Refer to your companys or investors due diligence checklist. It means that your VDR will feature folders particularly for existing assets, obligations, contracts, perks, and future difficulties of the firm. It will facilitate the search for one or another file.

Then, you just invite the involved parties to your electronic data room and set up their access  restricted or unrestricted to certain files. Do remember, you can guide them step-by-step depending on their interest in the project. No need to spill all beans from the start.

Final Thoughts

Thats it for the basic and error-free setup. Depending on your business goals, you may also want to integrate additional features. For example, if you focus on overseas transactions, and tasks, you are most likely to set up the languages supported. Your investors may access a virtual data room in English, German, Spanish, French, as well as Russian, Chinese, Japanese, and other languages. The same concerns notifications which you or investors may receive upon heading to the new due diligence or private equity, etc operations.
Jack Sepple, 23, has appeared in court charged with the murder of girlfriend Ashley Wadsworth, 19. (Faceboook)

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of his teenage Canadian girlfriend.

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, was found dead at a block of flats on Tennyson Road in Chelmsford, Essex on Tuesday at around 4pm after concerned neighbours called police.

Paramedics raced to the scene, but despite their best efforts Ashley died at the scene.

Jack Sepple, 23, appeared at Colchester Magistrates Court on Thursday, wearing a grey jumper and trousers, to face one count of murder.

He was remanded into custody and will next appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday.

Ashley had flown from her home city of Vernon on November 12 to visit Jack, who she had met on a dating app, and was due to fly back on Thursday.

During her travels with Sepple, Ashley visited some of the most iconic spots Britain had to offer, including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben in London.

The pair also visited Rye, in East Sussex with Supple's parents.

Jack Shepple appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Thursday charged with murder.

Canadian Ashley Wadsworth, 19, was found dead at a block of flats in Chelmsford, Essex. (Facebook)

She had been due to return to Canada later today.

Ashley's devastated friends and family have since paid tribute to the tragic teenager.

Her sister Hailey wrote on social media: "My poor baby sister we will get justice baby girl I love you so much I miss you everyday your big sissy loves you."

Larissa Kontos, a friend of Ashley's sister, described the teen as a "beautiful loving soul".

Larissa wrote on Facebook last night: "She had a ticket for this Thursday to come back home to people who love her dearly."

"You will never be forgotten my girly. And Ill miss you so much!"

Ashley's devastated friends and family have since paid tribute to the tragic teenager (Facebook)

Essex police officers pictured at the scene (Essex Police)

Ashley's aunt, Rosie Turcotte, wrote on Facebook: "I am so angry, sad and f***ing mad.

"Want to say so much right now, but mama always said if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.

"Another special Angel gone way too soon."

Ashley's family have been informed of the news are are being supported by specialist officers.

MacKenzie Palm, Ashleys best friend since seventh grade, wrote on Facebook: You were my rock. We went through so many phases together, we did so many silly things together.

Story continues

We made so many memories.

Please never forget that you are my friend and most importantly my family.

I hope heaven is everything you read about in church and more. And Ashley just know, I love you.

I promise I will do my best to take care of your family for you.

Ashley had visited London before her death (Facebook)

DCI Scott Egerton from Essex Police said: I know that incidents like this will shock and sadden the community, but our initial enquiries show this to be an isolated incident and that there is no wider risk to the community.

Currently, we are not looking for anyone else.

We have a team of dedicated officers working around the clock to establish the circumstances which led to a woman losing her life.

The investigation is progressing well, but we will remain on scene for a few more days whilst we continue to gather evidence and establish the facts.

You may see officers in the area carrying out reassurance patrols and I would encourage anyone who has information that might help our investigation, to approach them and tell them what you know.

They are there to listen to your concerns.

Sepple, of Tennyson Road, Chelmsford, is due to appear at Colchester Magistrates Court on Thursday.
Liberal Party members are seeking to force a meeting that could end an impasse over the selection of candidates for the federal election after months of frustration with Prime Minister Scott Morrison over delays that could destroy their chances in crucial campaigns.

Members of the partys state executive in NSW are building pressure on Mr Morrisons key ally, Immigration Minister Alex Hawke, to end his refusal to hold formal meetings to approve candidates in marginal seats.

Immigration Minister Alex Hawke has not been attending preselection meetings, meaning the Liberal Party does not have candidates in key seats. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The moves are expected to produce results within days because of the growing risk to the federal government if it cannot find strong candidates and build campaigns against Labor in the election due by May.

Late on Thursday, Liberal Party members said there were signs of progress because Mr Hawke had agreed to attend meetings on Friday to clear the way for candidates to be chosen, with one of those meetings expected to discuss those who want to run for the federal seat of Bennelong.
(Newser)  Update: A US special forces raid in northwestern Syria early Thursday killed the top leader of the Islamic State group, Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi, President Biden said. Thanks to the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces, we have taken off the battlefield Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshithe leader of ISIS, Biden said in a statement, per the AP. He said all Americans involved in the operation returned safely. Biden said he would address the American people later Thursday on the raid. Our earlier story from Thursday follows:

Residents and activists are reporting multiple deathsincluding civiliansfrom a US raid in northwestern Syria overnight Thursday. Several residents told the AP they saw body parts scattered around the house in the village of Atmeh, near the border with Turkey. They spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals following the raid, which they say involved helicopters, explosions, and machine-gun fire. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the strike killed nine people, including two children and a woman. Ahmad Rahhal, a citizen journalist who visited the site in Idlib province, reported seeing 12 bodies. Others were reportedly still under the rubble.

The Pentagon had previously announced that US special operations forces conducted a large-scale counterterrorism raid in northwestern Syria overnight Thursday, in what it said was a successful mission" with no US casualties. The raid was in Syrias rebel-held northwestern province of Idlib. The Pentagon provided no details on who was the target of the raid, or if any enemies or civilians on the ground were killed or injured. Idlib is home to several top al-Qaeda operatives, and the clandestine operation came as the Islamic State was appearing to try to stage a comeback after its effort to establish a caliphate failed in 2019. Residents and activists in the area described seeing a large ground assault, and US forces using loudspeakers asking women and children to leave the area.

There was at least one major explosion. A US official said that one of the helicopters in the raid suffered a mechanical problem and had to be blown up on the ground. The US official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details of the military operation. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said troops for the US-led coalition using helicopters landed in the area and attacked a house. It said the force clashed with fighters on the ground. The military operation got attention on social media, with tweets from the region describing helicopters firing around a building near Atmeh. Flight-tracking data also suggested that multiple drones were circling the city of Sarmada and the village of Salwah just north of there in Idlib province.

(Read more Syria stories.)
Warren County Health Services on Tuesday announced an 80% decrease in COVID cases since early January.

Our infection rates have improved dramatically in Warren County and around New York state, but we know we are not getting all cases reported to us or to New York state as home tests become more available, Health Services Director Ginelle Jones said in a news release.

Jones urged residents to stay vigilant as the transmission rate in Warren County and the Northeast remain high.

We ask that you please continue to take precautions to avoid infection, and get a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot if you have not done so already, she said.

Health Services reported 64 new COVID cases on Tuesday.

Hospitalizations remain unchanged at 16, with 11 vaccinated patients, three with a booster shot and two in the ICU.

Glens Falls Hospital spokesman Ray Agnew reported a total of 42 COVID patients, with seven in the ICU, on Monday.

The seven-day rolling positivity rate in the county was at 11.4%.

Washington County

The Washington County Public Health Department reported 351 active COVID cases on Tuesday.

According to the county, 17 residents are now in the hospital.

The seven-day rolling positivity rate was at 11.6%.

The Public Health Department announced weekly clinics for the first half of February on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Clinics will be open for first dose, second dose or booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines at the countys Public Health building, 415 Lower Main St. in Hudson Falls.

Register by phone at 518-746-2400. Walk-ins will be accepted based on the availability of the vaccine.

Statewide

Gov. Kathy Hochul, at a news conference in Brooklyn on Tuesday, announced an effort to require all insurances to cover COVID vaccine consultations for children and families.

The governor also announced a partnership with the New York State Department of Financial Services to encourage insurance providers to create incentives and rewards for New Yorkers to get vaccinated and boosted.

In addition to our comprehensive efforts to vaccinate New Yorkers, including #VaxForKids and pop-up vaccination sites, we are taking action by calling on the federal government to encourage insurers to cover vaccination consultations and by calling on New York insurers to leverage wellness and reward programs to encourage their insureds to get vaccinated, Hochul said.

Hochul also announced a virtual educational symposium on Thursday to bring together health experts to identify the longstanding effects of COVID. The event will be hosted by Dr. Mary Bassett, the state health commissioner.
The imminent release of Agency Scope 2021/22 - the fourth study South Africa - reveals a profusion of "secrets" from the inner sanctum of marketing and agency leaders.

Eager to share what their organisations have learned since the previous study, 465 interviews disclose the way in which our industries changed, driven by the pandemic, and where we stand in comparison to our foreign counterparts.

Johanna McDowell, CEO of the Independent Agency Search & Selection Company (IAS) and Scopen partner, says an important area that experienced massive change is integration, defined by marketers as having expertise in five different disciplines.

As weve noted in the media, marketers are operating in a much more complex ecosystem, with many working with up to an average of 13 different partners, she says. When asked which disciplines marketers take into account in their definition of an integrated agency, almost 100% named digital and advertising, which is largely in line with previous figures.

McDowell notes that the percentages for the disciplines of PR, Media, Activation and Events decrease in number of mentions, but the rest of the disciplines remain stable from 2019.

President and CEO of Scopen International Cesar Vacchiano says that large companies give more importance to disciplines like relationship marketing, than other companies when defining an integrated agency. Conversely, smaller marketers give less importance to activation and sales promotions when defining Integration. The evolution of marketing automation and the barriers of COVID for activation are the reasons for these responses.

To determine the model of integration companies are employing, business leaders surveyed were asked whether they have a lead agency that coordinated their communications requirements.

Seven out of 10 in South Africa have indeed identified a lead agency to address this need, says Vacchiano, highlighting that large and medium-sized companies declare the highest percentage, being 75.4% and 70.4% respectively.

At 69.9%, South Africa is the market with the highest number of marketers that identify one of their agencies as their lead partner in Marketing-Communications-Advertising-Media.

No more silos, say data-reliant business leaders

This leads to an issue that needs attention. Its clear that media and creative in some companies operate in silos, each with its own leader. Clients view this as a challenge as they believe integrated data is what business decisions rely on, he says.

In South Africa, creative agencies are currently undertaking digital transformation to address the issue of data silos, but media agencies are not. In other countries, Vacchiano affirms, we see both creative and media agencies addressing this issue.

Media agencies appear to be lagging in South Africa and McDowell says this leads to the IAS wondering if media agency margins are so low that they cannot afford the quality tech talent required to drive this transformation.

Food for thought...

As the industry awaits the publication of Agency Scope 2021/22, Vacchiano and McDowell agree that the shining stars of responses to the rigorous examination of industry leaders undertaken by researchers would be the huge growth in the digital sector; and the way in which agencies and clients stepped up during harsh lockdowns and trying conditions to produce work and relationships that are quite remarkable, says Vacchiano.

Client satisfaction with their agencies at this level makes for relationship longevity. Marketers realise that they have strong partnerships with their agencies, who in turn are strong partners for their brands, he says.

South African marketers are becoming more high profile because of their contribution to the growth of their brands and the work that they are doing, and it is now commonplace for CMOs  and not just their agencies - to be named.

This makes choosing the best of the best a difficult task, as can be noted in the pictures of most admired creative agency professionals.

The top ten actually turns out to be the top 12, because the margins between the candidates were so close, it was impossible to choose. And this, McDowell asserts, bodes well for the health of our industry.
They won't be playing it again at this Casablanca cinema. Rabi Derraj gazed despondently at the ramshackle 1940s movie house, its doors blocked by discarded mannequins from the nearby market.

"There's no hope any more. This cinema is dead," said its longtime security guard.

Al-Malaki once seated more than 1,000 moviegoers, but like theatres across Morocco, it lies closed and derelict.

Enthusiasts are calling for better protection for the buildings, architectural treasures that bear witness to the North African kingdom's past.

Al-Malaki, "the Royal" in Arabic, was commissioned by King Mohammed V in the 1940s as a grandiose riposte to cinemas reserved for citizens of colonial power France.

Yahla Yahla, a projectionist at three cinemas that went out of business, visits Casablanca's Le Rif, one of just 27 movie theatres still operating in Morocco. By FADEL SENNA (AFP)

The 1942 Hollywood classic "Casablanca", featuring piano-player Sam, is set in the city.

But decades later the cinema building has become a dumping ground for goods from the surrounding market in the working-class Derb Sultan neighbourhood.

"It's tragic. You can't measure the historical importance of this cinema," said Derraj, who has spent almost half of his 42 years as its guard.

In front of the ticket office, a TV almost blocks a list of prices, one of the few indications of the building's function until it closed in 2016.

Like audiences in other countries around the world where historic theatres have also shuttered, Moroccans have turned to streaming services at home, a trend amplified by the coronavirus pandemic.

A hundred or so theatres face a similar fate to Al-Malaki's -- crumbling for years until they are finally demolished.

Yahla says "the younger generation don't understand the value of cinema". By FADEL SENNA (AFP)

Morocco's first cinemas were built by the French, who had established a protectorate over the country in 1912.

But it was in the 1940s that theatres were built for Moroccans themselves, setting up a golden age of the silver screen which lasted into the early 1990s.

"The Moroccans had a love affair with cinema," said Francois Beaurain, a French photographer who has produced a book on the subject.

"But television, VHS tapes and today streaming have killed that love," he continued.

'Unforgettable memories'

One victim of the trend was the Regent cinema in the northern city of Meknes, a baroque-style theatre built in the 1920s.

Boxes are piled in front of the former ticket window of Casablanca's Al-Malaki ("The Royal") cinema, which closed in 2016. By FADEL SENNA (AFP)

Its demolition was a tragedy for Yahla Yahla, who had been its projectionist for 35 years.

"It was very hard for me. It even made me sick," said the sharply-dressed retiree, now in his 70s.

"I have unforgettable memories from that cinema. I learned my trade there."

And the closure of the Regent was just the start of his woes. Yahla went on to work at two other cinemas -- but by 2020 both had shut.

"The younger generation don't understand the value of cinema," he said.

Today, just 27 theatres remain open across the country of 37 million.

They rely heavily on state funding for renovations and for digitising films.

'Harder and harder'

Casablanca's Le Rif is one of those still in operation.

The Al-Malaki cinema building has become a dumping ground for goods from the surrounding market in a working-class neighbourhood. By FADEL SENNA (AFP)

Built in 1957, its walls are lined with purple velvet that contrasts with its 950 red fabric seats.

"It's a unique cinema, but I can't hide my concern -- the situation's getting harder and harder," said owner Hassan Belkady, 63.

And the coronavirus pandemic may have delivered the knockout blow: cinemas across Morocco went dark for more than a year before reopening in July 2021.

Despite nine million dirhams (850,000 euros, $960,000) of funding for the Moroccan Centre for Cinematography (CCM), which promotes and regulates film, the industry is struggling to extract itself from the crisis.

Belkady said that since 2020, he had been forced to close two other cinemas in the country's commercial capital -- the ABC theatre, built in 1948, and the Ritz from 1950.

Some of the buildings are officially listed, meaning they cannot be demolished.

But, Belkady asks, "what's the point in listing buildings as historic if the authorities don't do anything to protect them?"

"It's urgent to mobilise, and to act before it's too late," he said.


Based on arbitrary calculations and lack of proper evidence, the administration has been recovering money from commoners for property damages.

Musheera Ashraf | TwoCircles.net

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NEW DELHI  Away from the spotlight and at a time when the protests against the controversial citizenship act have mellowed down, the Uttar Pradesh government has been penalising people who participated in agitations more than a year ago. According to a series of stories carried by The Indian Express, the state police have 500 issued notices in ten districts asking the accused to pay for damages worth Rs. 3.35 crore. While protests broke out in many states, UP is the only state to have invoked Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act to make people pay for the damages, revealed The Indian Express investigation.

There are multiple reports and video evidence that members of the Bajrang Dal, a Hindu nationalist group also vandalised property but none of them received such notices, per the news report.

We will take revenge from them by seizing their property, said Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath after the damage caused to public property during the anti-CAA protests in December 2019.

The protests against the contentious citizenship bill emerged across India but UP remained the most affected state. While protestors alleged that the police opened fire, the police denied it.

The Indian Express report found that in the past years not a single notice has been issued against Bajrang Dal members after their protests turned violent. Reportedly, the Bajrang Dal protesters vandalised the police station and ransacked a police chowki in Uttar Pradesh, and the vehicles in front of the police chowki were set on fire.

The report noted that one of the senior police officers in UP was heard venting out his anger on a particular community telling them to go to Pakistan but no action was taken against that police officer. Moreover, the FIR was registered against the people of that area, the report said.

The two cities in U.P in which FIR was registered against the protestors were Lucknow and Kanpur.

Lucknow

In Lucknows Hazratganj, 46 individuals were named in two FIRs to recover damages estimated at Rs 64.37 lakh. Each of them was asked to pay the same recovery amount. All the 46 individuals were also booked under IPC Sections 146 (rioting), 186 (obstructing a public official), 152 (using criminal force and deterring public officials from discharging their duties) and breaking curfew imposed under CrPC Section 144, along with provisions of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.

The Indian Express reported that in every case polices version has been that video and photo evidence has not been available because protestors damaged three OB vans by burning them and the photographs that were taken were only of protestors in the front line and even those are not very clear.

In 25 cases, the only evidence for involvement in protests is the persons name in the FIR. Only in three cases, police relied on evidence such as GPS Location.

Out of 28 other cases, the 10 who invoked the fundamental right to protest and questioned the power of the Magistrate to issue notice were held guilty.

All the 46 FIRs were analysed by The Indian Express and a copy-paste pattern was identified. Former IPS officer SR Darapuri, social activist Robin Verma and an Alambagh resident identified Pulkit were also named in the FIR. The other 43 were from the minority community.

Syed Saif Abbas Naqvi, a Shia cleric was among nine persons who received recovery notices from Additional District Magistrate (ADM), Lucknow. Naqvi and others were held jointly as well as separately responsible and liable for damages amounting to Rs 67 lakh. The ADMs recovery order stated that it was applying the doctrine of joint and several liabilities, since those held liable shared a common object of illegality, whether they acted on their own or otherwise.

Naqvi has challenged the order. The matter is pending before the Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court.

Kanpur

The investigation highlights that people who received recovery notices in Kanpur include rickshaw pullers, hawkers, daily wage workers and a teenager. They paid Rs 13,476 each to the Kanpur district admin.

Unlike Lucknow, the accused in Kanpur were not lucky enough to pin their hopes to any appeals or relief.

No one knows how the administration reached the figure of Rs 2.83 lakh and their share of Rs 13,476. Most of them were scared and told the newspaper that they paid the amount out of fear because the police were regularly visiting them. Some of them had to borrow to pay the money. One of the 18-year-old accused had to quit school. His family said he was innocent. Police said they had evidence to implicate him.

Many accused told the newspaper that they paid the amount because they wanted a closure. The lawyer of the accused told The Indian Express that the photograph police produced in court as evidence was not of his client.

Musheera Ashraf is a special correspondent with TwoCircles.net. She tweets at @Musheera_Ashraf.
The persons of interest recently identified by the FBI are all tech-savvy juveniles who have been disguising how they make calls to the schools receiving threats, according to MSNBC.

Federal investigators have identified six persons of interest in connection with their investigation into a series of bomb threats made earlier this week at HBCUs across the nation, according to MSNBC.

At least 13 historically Black colleges and universities confirmed receiving bomb threats on Tuesday, as previously reported by theGrio. Another six received similar threats on Monday.

Additional threats were received by several HBCUs in early January.

NEW: The FBI has identified 6 persons of interest who are suspected of making the bomb threats to HBCUs across the country.



All of the persons of interest are said to be juveniles who appeared to have a racist motivation https://t.co/zJIFzKzzGk pic.twitter.com/M1Tgx93ph2  philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) February 2, 2022

The persons of interest recently identified by the FBI are all tech-savvy juveniles who have been disguising how they make calls to the schools receiving threats, NBC News correspondent Ron Allen told MSNBC on Wednesday.

They appear to have a racist motive, Allen said, citing a senior FBI official. Allen emphasized that the persons of interest are not suspects yet.

Its unclear how far the case against them, or, if theres going to be an arrest anytime soon, he said.

More than 20 FBI field offices across the country are involved in the HBCU bomb threat investigation, the bureau said in a statement on Wednesday.

These threats are being investigated as racially or ethnically motivated violent extremism and hate crimes, the FBI said. We are working closely with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners; coordinating with the targeted institutions; and meeting with academia and faith leaders to share information.

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White House press secretary Jen Psaki addresses reports about bomb threats made at several HBCUs on Jan. 31, 2022. (Credit: The White House on YouTube/Screenshot)

Several HBCUs were forced to shut down their campuses after receiving threats on Monday and Tuesday. Some shifted to virtual classes while investigators conducted sweeps of locations where bombs were supposedly planted.

No explosives have been found at any of the HBCUs that received threats, the FBI said.

White House staffers and President Joe Biden have been monitoring the investigation, press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters on Monday.

U.S. Reps. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Andre Carson (D-Ind.) told theGrio via email on Monday that they have requested more information about the bomb threats from the FBI.

There is no denying the surge of racially-motivated violent extremism and the threat it poses to our nation, the lawmakers told theGrio in a joint emailed statement. We will remain focused on ensuring that all appropriate resources are utilized to identify and prosecute the perpetrators of these threats, and to combat the scourge of white supremacist violence and terrorism.

The FBI is asking members of the public with information about the bomb threats to report it to law enforcement, call a local FBI office, or send their tip to tips.fbi.gov.

TheGrio is now on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post FBI identifies six persons of interest with racist motivation in HBCU bomb threats case appeared first on TheGrio.
(Newser)  A shooting on a Greyhound bus in Northern California killed one person and injured several others before the attacker was arrested inside a nearby Walmart, police said Wednesday night. Police received 911 calls shortly after 7:30pm that someone was shooting inside a bus outside an ampm convenience store in Oroville, north of Sacramento, according to a statement from the Butte County Sheriff's Office cited by the AP. Sheriff's deputies and Oroville police officers found several people with gunshot wounds and one died at the scene despite lifesaving measures, the sheriff's office said.

The attacker had run off before officers arrived but acting on 911 calls, they located the suspect inside a Walmart and took him into custody, authorities said. He was reportedly "incoherent," but while a physical altercation allegedly took place inside the store, no shots were fired. The number of people shot in the bus and their conditions weren't immediately released, although Oroville Mayor Chuck Reynolds said earlier on Facebook that said five people had been shot at the ampm site. One of them was a minor, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries, CBS Sacramento reports. Other details of the shooting, including a motive, weren't immediately released, but it may have erupted after an altercation on the bus.

(Read more California stories.)
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks at a press conference at the Beehive in Parliament in Wellington, New Zealand, on Jan. 23, 2022. (Mark Mitchell-Pool/Getty Images)

New Zealand to End Quarantine Rules for Vaccinated, Reopen Borders

The New Zealand government announced Thursday it will end its quarantine requirements for incoming travelers and carry out a phased reopening of its borders.

The country has been imposing strict border controls for much of the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most incoming travelers have been required to quarantine for 10 days in a hotel room run by the military. The requirement was creating a bottleneck at the border.

The latest changes, outlined in a five-step plan, mean that COVID-19-vaccinated New Zealanders returning from Australia will no longer need to go into quarantine from Feb. 27.

Also, COVID-19-vaccinated New Zealanders returning from countries other than Australia can enter by March 13 without quarantine. The same applies to foreign vaccinated skilled workers, as well as travelers on working holiday schemes.

Up to 5,000 international students will be allowed to enter the country without quarantine starting April 12. By then, offshore temporary visa holders with a valid visa can also enter.

By July, all tourists from Australia and other visa-free countries who are fully vaccinated will be allowed in without quarantine.

Shoppers walk through a retail district in Auckland, New Zealand, on Nov. 10, 2021. (Fiona Goodall/Reuters)

But most tourists and other visa categories, including student visas, will need to wait until October before they can enter the country without a quarantine stay.

Despite not needing to quarantine, travelers will still be required to self-isolate for 10 days.

Meanwhile, all unvaccinated travelers, including those who dont meet New Zealands vaccination requirements, but are otherwise eligible to enter the country, will still be required to enter quarantine.

Opening borders in a managed way will allow people to reunite and help fill workforce shortages while ensuring the health care system can manage an expected increase in cases, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said.

Our strategy with Omicron is to slow the spread, and our borders are part of that, she told a business audience in Auckland. The highly contagious variant of the virus currently dominant around the world was recently detected in New Zealand, and case numbers are slowly mounting.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Jackie Chan appeared in good spirits as he took part in the Winter Olympics torch relay at the Great Wall Of China on the outskirts of Beijing on Thursday.

The actor, 67, proudly held the Olympic torch on the second day of the relay which was also attended by several Chinese Olympic medallists.

Speaking to a group of reporters at the event, Jackie said: 'I woke up at 4 a.m. This is my fourth Olympics. I'm very happy. I'm also cold!'

Event: Jackie Chan appeared in good spirits as he took part in the Winter Olympics torch relay at the Great Wall Of China on the outskirts of Beijing on Thursday

The route, which opens the Olympic Games, has been shortened to three days this year due to Covid-19.

Jackie wrapped up warm for the outing in a red and white coat along with a white beanie hat.

The movie star was greeted by dozens of fans and spent time signing autographs and taking selfies at the event.

This year's Winter Olympics begin on Friday, February 4 and will run until Sunday, February 20.

Ceremony: The actor, 67, proudly held the Olympic torch on the second day of the relay which was also attended by several Chinese Olympic medallists

In demand: The movie star was greeted by dozens of fans and spent time signing autographs and taking selfies at the event

Overjoyed: Speaking to a group of reporters at the event, Jackie said: 'I woke up at 4 a.m. This is my fourth Olympics. I'm very happy. I'm also cold!'

Back at the beginning of the pandemic, Jackie released a statement on his social media to reassure his legions of devoted fans that was doing alright.

The virus was mostly present in mainland China at the time, with Jackie taking to Instagram to confirm he was alright.

'Thanks for everybody's concern! I'm safe and sound, and very healthy,' he shared on Instagram.

'Please don't worry, I'm not in quarantine. I hope everyone stays safe and healthy too!'

Olympics The route, which opens the Olympic Games, has been shorted to three days this year due to Covid-19

Frosty: Jackie wrapped up warm for the outing in a red and white coat along with a white beanie hat

Games: This year's Winter Olympics begin on Friday, February 4 and will run until Sunday, February 20

Healthy: Back at the beginning of the pandemic, Jackie released a statement on his social media to reassure his legions of devoted fans that was doing alright

Statement: The virus was mostly present in mainland China at the time, with Jackie taking to Instagram to confirm he was alright

Success: Jackie is one of the world's most popular action stars and was said to be the second highest-paid actor in the world back in 2016 (pictured in Rush Hour, 1998)

The Hong Kong native told how he had been receiving gifts, including face masks, from people all over the world as fear of the virus spreads.

'I've also received some very special gifts from fans all over the world during this very difficult time,' he wrote on his website.

'Thank you for the face masks. Your thoughtfulness is well received! And I've asked my lovely staff to donate your kindness through official organisations to those who need it most.'

Jackie is one of the world's most popular action stars and was said to be the second highest-paid actor in the world back in 2016.

The Rush Hour star's net worth was estimated by Forbes to be $350 million in 2015.

He wrote: 'Thanks for everybody's concern! I'm safe and sound, and very healthy'
U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron in a phone call discussed Russia's military build-up on Ukraine's borders and agreed to coordinate their actions in response.

Ukrinform reports this with reference to a press release posted on the White Houses website.

The two leaders affirmed their support for Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity, and reviewed our ongoing coordination on both diplomacy and preparations to impose swift and severe economic costs on Russia should it further invade Ukraine, the report says.

President Biden and President Macron agreed their teams will stay in close touch, including in consultation with NATO Allies and EU partners, on our coordinated and comprehensive approach to managing these issues.

As Ukrinform reported, French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a phone call on January 28 agreed on the "need for de-escalation" and the continuation of the "dialogue" on the situation around Ukraine.

On the same day, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone conversation with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron. The presidents welcomed the intensification of the Normandy format activities and the meeting of political advisers to the Normandy Four leaders in Paris on January 26. It was noted that a document on the negotiations results had been agreed upon for the first time since 2019.

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Minnesota saw more than 275,000 new COVID-19 cases in January, the highest monthly total for the pandemic.

Fueled by the highly infectious omicron variant, the state surpassed the monthly record of 180,000 cases set in November 2020 before COVID-19 vaccines were introduced.

But omicron has not set records for hospitalizations and deaths, due in part to Minnesota's COVID-19 vaccination rate of 64.7%.

Preliminary data for January show that about 5,300 patients were admitted to Minnesota hospitals for COVID-19 complications, down from November 2020's peak of nearly 7,000.

As some studies have indicated, omicron has not caused as many serious complications, with 10% of January's hospitalizations needing intensive care, while throughout the pandemic nearly 1 out of every 5 patients were in the ICU.

Even with the high number of infections, 659 COVID-19 deaths were reported last month, down 37% from the December total. Over the coming days and weeks, more cases, deaths and hospitalizations for January will continue to be reported to the Health Department.

As of Monday, there were 1,370 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, including 192 in intensive care. Patients with other medical conditions are also keeping hospitals busy, with 95% of adult ICU beds occupied along with 88% of pediatric ICU beds.

"Omicron still has made a lot of people sick," said Carol Koeppel-Olsen, vice president of patient care services at Abbott Northwestern Hospital.

A team of 25 health care workers from the U.S. Department of Defense arrived over the weekend at the hospital, which has allowed the Minneapolis medical center to open more medical-surgical beds for patients,

Abbott Northwestern is caring for nearly 90 COVID-19 patients, off from its peak of 110.

The federal team includes nurses, doctors, medics, pharmacy technicians and respiratory therapists from three Army hospitals across the country, said Col. Robert Corson, the officer in charge. The Department of Defense teams, two of which previously deployed to CentraCare in St. Cloud and HCMC in Minneapolis, typically stay for 30 or 60 days, Corson said.

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For now, the team at Abbott Northwestern is expected to stay through March 2.

"COVID's been a crisis for two-and-a-half years, so we've gotten used to it, honestly," Koeppel-Olsen said. Hospital workers are "tired," she said, and while "they would tell you it is a crisis some days  we just feel like this is what we do now, honestly.  We care for people who need COVID care. We care for everybody else."

Kathy Parsons, the vice president of population health at CentraCare, said a federal team arrived at St. Cloud Hospital in late November when the state's largest regional hospitals were so full that they couldn't take transfers of patients with complex needs from smaller medical centers across greater Minnesota.

"They came to us at a time when we very much needed them most  they were kind of the darkest of our days, trying to get through," Parsons said.

The problem with transfers has eased, Parsons said. Outlying hospitals are better able to care for the complex patients, she said, while larger medical centers now have more room to take them.

Parsons remains cautious about what comes next with the virus. "We've learned now, just when we think we've rounded a corner, we discover there's another curve ahead  that we hope is not there."

Even if demand for COVID care is easing "there's a lot of pent-up need for lots of other care that we all kind of have to catch up on'' before they turn into bigger problems.

For now, all the leading indicators for pandemic activity in Minnesota  whether it's COVID cases, the statewide positivity rate or patients in hospitals and intensive care  are trending favorably, said Dr. Dan Hoody, the interim chief medical officer at Hennepin Healthcare.

Hospitals aren't out of the woods, Hoody said, because staff outages remain higher than they were in previous surges. Even so, he said it was "reassuring to think that in the coming weeks  with both the downstream impact on acute care from all these favorable leading indicators coming to fruition, as well as more staff coming back into the ranks  that we should expect patient flow and acute care access to continue to improve."

The Minnesota Department of Health on Tuesday reported 21,360 cases and 46 additional deaths, representing reports made to the health agency Friday through Sunday, as well as some backlogged cases.

The state's testing positivity rate has fallen to 21%, still higher than the 15.3% seen during the fall 2020 surge.

Health officials said that January had the top 10 highest daily reports of new cases for the pandemic and by the third week of last month there was a backlog of more than 45,000 cases because agency employees could not keep up with the high volume.

Altogether, Minnesota has reported 1.3 million COVID-19 infections and 11,457 fatalities.

Nearly 3.6 million Minnesotans have completed the COVID-19 vaccine series and 2 million have received booster shots. But the pace of vaccinations continues to slow, with 69,000 shots administered last week, down 28% from the previous week.

Staff writer Christopher Snowbeck contributed to this report.

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An Introduction to Doing Business in Vietnam 2022 will provide readers with an overview of the fundamentals of investing and conducting business in Vietnam....
(Newser)  Update: Susan Sarandon is now apologizing for sharing a social media post that compared police officers attending the funeral of a fallen NYPD colleague to "fascism." People reports that on Friday, the 75-year-old actress posted a statement on her Instagram story and on Twitter, where she offered a mea culpa on how she'd "reacted quickly" to a photo that showed masses of police officers at rookie Jason Rivera's funeral. "I deeply regret the meme I shared," Sarandon wrote. "I realize now how insensitive and deeply disrespectful it was to make that point at that time." She also offered a more personal apology to the families of both Rivera and fellow cop Wilbert Mora, who also died after being gunned down Jan. 21 during a domestic disturbance in Harlem. Our original story from Thursday follows:

Susan Sarandon has made her opposition to police clear in the past, and her latest post on the issue is stirring controversy. She tweeted an image of someone else's social media post; that post featured a picture of cops attending the funeral of one of the recently slain NYPD officers that the original poster captioned, "I'm gonna tell my kids this is what fascism looks like." The hashtag #abolishthepolice was overlaid on the image. On Sarandon's post, the actress apparently added the additional caption, "So, if all these cops weren't needed for CRIME that day, doesn't that mean they aren't needed ANY day?" Responses on Twitter included both outrage and support for Sarandon's position.

The New York Post reports another actress got into hot water with a post about the funeral; Jacqueline Guzman said on TikTok, "We do not need to shut down most of Lower Manhattan because one cop died for probably doing his job incorrectly. They kill people who are under 22 every single day for no good reason and we dont shut down the city for them." The film and theater company Face to Face Films fired her after the post, which she ultimately deleted, went viral. The Cuban-American actress also apparently deleted her social media feeds. (Read more Susan Sarandon stories.)
Global Elections Day, celebrated this year on February 3, reaffirms the importance of respecting democratic principles, Romania's Permanent Electoral Authority (AEP) said on Thursday, Agerpres reports.

"Celebrating Global Elections Day reaffirms the importance of respecting the democratic principles enshrined in international treaties, national laws and constitutions, and reiterates the promotion of transparency and efficiency in the organisation and conduct of free and fair elections. The event also highlights the important part of the society in consolidating participatory democracy and the need to engage the general public in an open dialogue on relevant election-related matters," the AEP release reads.AEP Chairman Constantin-Florin Mituletu-Buica sent a message to a conference organised on Thursday by the Association of European Election Officials (ACEEEO) to mark February 3, Global Elections Day."We are fortunate to have built such a long tradition throughout the ACEEEO region, and we are honoured to share the joy of celebrating democracy and free elections, to celebrate the successful election process, to learn from common experiences. Global Elections Day should always remind us of the great responsibility and the great privilege we have to contribute to the progress of the Romanian elections administration," says Mituletu-Buica.AEP Deputy Chairman Vajda Zsombor, a member of the ACEEEO Executive Committee, participates in the virtual conference on behalf of AEP. He is expected to emphasise AEP's commitment to the values of the association and give a presentation on the good practices followed by AEP to hold elections as a result of the challenges to elections of late.Global Elections Day is celebrated every year on the first Thursday in February at the initiative of the Association of European Election Officials (ACEEEO).
The current situation in the Romanian energy market is caused, in addition to the European context, by the lack of investment in new production capacity, but also by the fact that, although we have additional gas resources, these are blocked due to legislation, Christina Verchere, CEO of OMV Petrom, said in an interview to AGERPRES.

The tax burden on natural gas is what discourages new investment. The tax regime is six times higher than the European Union average, and ten times higher for offshore gas.Verchere says high gas prices are not reflected in the company's results due to extremely high taxation. In 2021, the effective tax rate of gas production was 47%, and OMV Petrom transferred to the state budget the record amount of 12.3 billion lei.At the same time, the official OMV Petrom considers that the decrease in the company's gas production did not have any impact on the prices, which followed the trend of the international market.The solution for ensuring energy for Romania is to unblock the natural gas resources from the Black Sea, she underlined, specifying that OMV Petrom postponed for another year, for 2023, taking a decision whether or not to remove these deposits.
Feb. 1Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has told Lebanon Schools superintendent that he shouldn't discourage protesters upset about the After School Satan Club from gathering near the school.

"This rubs against the First Amendment," Yost said in a letter to the superintendent. "The area around the school is a public forum. Public streets, sidewalks, and parks have 'time out of mind, have been used for purposes of assembly, communicating thoughts between citizens, and discussing public questions.'"

Lebanon Schools Superintendent Isaac Seevers issued a letter on Jan. 25 requesting families and residents not protest on school property against the first meeting of the After School Satan Club, citing an effort to maintain order and safe departure for students from Donovan Elementary School last Thursday.

Less than a dozen people protested, carrying signs saying they were against the school district allowing the new group to meet. No problems were reported to police from the protest.

Yost tweeted Friday that Seevers was "wrong" to discourage parents from their First Amendment rights on school property while supporting the same rights for the After School Satan Club to meet there.

Yost also then sent Seevers the letter, saying the rights of the club and the parents should have been upheld by the district.

In the letter dated Jan. 28, Yost said much of Seevers' letter was fine except for asking the public to "refrain from gathering at the school or protesting on or around school grounds," and instead asking them to "please find another place in town." Seevers' letter also reminded residents that the young students might have no idea why adults would gathering.

"The decision to allow the Satan Club to rent Lebanon school facilities was, predictably, a decision many people don't like," Yost said in his letter to the district. "And under our constitution, they have a right to say so, in public, without being steered miles down the road. During the next meeting of this attention-seeking afterschool club, I strongly encourage you to allow the speech that American citizens are entitled to engage in."

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Seevers said in a statement Tuesday that the district had received Yost's letter and was discussing it with their legal counsel.

Lebanon City Manager Scott Brunka said the city received one permit request and issued one permit for people opposing the After School Satan Club. He said his office and police worked with school officials to develop a safety plan for last week.

Police Chief Jeff Mitchell said the superintendent decided who would be allowed on school grounds. Mitchell said there were no incidents reported to police nor was there any complaints made to police concerning the event. He also said police monitored social media and no posts raised any safety concerns.

The After School Satan Club has a monthly meeting scheduled for February, March, April and May.

District officials said two students and seven adults participated in the meeting last week.
A Mormon teenager who had 'never left Canada' was stabbed to death in an Essex cul-de-sac after flying to visit her online boyfriend in the UK - as he appears in court accused of her murder.

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, was discovered following a 'disturbance' at a block of flats in Chelmsford at 4pm on Tuesday after neighbours called police.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, the teenager, from Vernon, British Columbia, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her 23-year-old boyfriend Jack Sepple, of Chelmsford, Essex, was arrested at the scene and has been charged with her murder.

He appeared at Colchester Magistrates' Court today wearing a grey jumper and trousers.

Sepple was remanded in custody following the short hearing and will next appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday.

Ms Wadsworth had converted to the Church of the Latter-day Saints at the age of 18 and was described by fellow churchgoer Daniel Seaman as a 'woman of great faith' who 'even wanted to share her faith her her boyfriend'.

The teenager, who had never left Canada before but was said to have wanted to escape 'small town life', had flown to the UK to be with Sepple on November 12 last year - and was due to fly home to see her family this week.

Ms Wadsworth flew to the UK from Vernon, a city around 273 miles northeast of Vancouver with a population of little over 43,000, according to its authority's website.

The city is surrounded by three lakes and provides' an exceptional quality of life with a mix of urban amenities, world class resorts, amazing recreational opportunities'.

Mormons have been present in British Columbia since 1872 and around 31,000 residents of the province are served by its Langley temple.

During her trip to the UK, Ms Wadsworth visited dozens of tourist hotspots including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben in London.

She also joined Sepple's family for a trip to the historic town of Rye in East Sussex.

The couple had met through an online dating app, though it is not known through which service they came into contact.

Her step mother Charmaine Wadsworth told CBC News today: 'We are just remembering how strong, smart and witty Ashleigh was - how kind she was and how she was always 10 steps ahead of all of us.

'She will be dearly missed by each and every one of us.'

Ashley Wadsworth, 19, was found stabbed to death at an address in Essex. She had flown to the UK from her home in Canada to live with her boyfriend Jack Sepple (pictured together)

Court sketches of Sepple appearing in the dock at Colchester Magistrates' Court for a short hearing on Thursday

Poppy Clifton, former partner of Sepple, was emotional as she attended the scene in Essex today

A police presence and cordon around a property inside a cul-de-sac in Sussex on Thursday afternoom

Forensic officers at the scene in Chelmsford on Thursday after Sepple was charged with the murder of Ashley Wadsworth

Flowers and lamps have been placed outside a police guarded cordon in a quiet cul-de-sac in Essex today

Flowers and candles laid close to a police cordon inside a quiet Essex cul-de-sac on Thursday

Ms Wadsworth (left) had been due to fly home to Vernon in British Columbia this week. Her boyfriend Sepple (right) has been charged with her murder

Ms Wadsworth's heartbroken big sister, Hailey, vowed to get justice for her sibling, writing on Facebook: 'I love you so much baby girl you're the bestest little sister I ever could have asked for'

Essex Police detectives are pictured at the scene after they launched a murder investigation

Ms Wadsworth's heartbroken big sister, Hailey, vowed to get justice for her sibling, writing on Facebook: 'I love you so much baby girl you're the bestest little sister I ever could have asked for.'

She had earlier said: 'My poor baby sister, we will get justice baby girl, I love you so much I miss you every day your big sissy loves you.'

Ms Wadsworth had posted a photograph of herself with Jack on Facebook on Sunday night and made the image her profile picture.

She had previously posted images of the couple smiling and enjoying sightseeing trips around Chelmsford and London.

The couple enjoyed a day out in the capital on January 9 to celebrate Jack's birthday, in which they visited Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

On Wednesday, friends of Ms Wadsworth posted tributes on Facebook to her.

Larissa Kontos, a friend of Ms Wadsworth's sister, described the teen as a 'beautiful loving soul'.

Ms Kontos wrote on Facebook: 'She had a ticket for this Thursday to come back home to people who love her dearly.'

Ms Wadsworth had previously posted images of the couple smiling and enjoying sightseeing trips around Chelmsford and London

Ms Wadsworth's heartbroken big sister, Hailey, vowed to get justice for her sibling

Hailey wrote on Facebook: 'My poor baby sister we will get justice baby girl I love you so much I miss you everyday your big sissy loves you'

'You will never be forgotten my girly. And I'll miss you so much!'

Ashley's aunt, Rosie Turcotte, wrote on Facebook: 'Want to say so much right now, but mama always said if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.

'Another special Angel gone way too soon.'

Larissa Kontos, a friend from Canada, posted an emotional tribute on Facebook.

She said: 'I've been trying to come up with words for hours. I have wrote out a post and then deleted it. Because nothing I say will bring you back. 'I will miss our conversations, you were always messaging me telling me the newest thing you saw on how a person can get pregnant! I will miss seeing your smile and beautiful face! 'You will be truly missed by so many. Shine bright girly.'

The teenager outside the gates of Buckingham Palace during a day out with boyfriend, Jack

Ms Kontos added: 'She was a 19-year-old beautiful soul. She had a ticket for this Thursday to come back home to people whom lover her dearly.'

Ms Wadsworth's aunt, Rosie Turcotte, wrote on Facebook: 'I am so angry, sad and f***ing mad.

'Want to say so much right now, but mama always said if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.

'Another special Angel gone way too soon.'

A neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: 'The police were called late yesterday afternoon and the whole street was crawling with officers.

'We could see the paramedics go into the living room of the house and they were working on someone for a while.

'They brought the young lady out into the road just outside the property and were continuing to try and save her.

'The police were talking about stab injuries. It seems that she was the victim of a frenzied attack. But the medics couldn't save her. It was awful to watch.'

Friends have paid more heartbreaking tributes to Ashley on Facebook over the last 24 hours.

Tianna Kowalchuk, who described Ashley as her best friend, said: 'I'm sorry there wasn't more I or anyone else could do to help you. But God has you in his hands now, we have you in our hearts forever.'

Another pal, Mackenzie Palm, wrote: 'Since grade 7, you were my best friend, my family and my rock.

'We went through so many phases together, we did so many silly things together. We made so many memories.'

A third friend, Maleea Ames, said: 'Ashley Wadsworth, I remember first meeting you when we sat next together in the nail salon talking about life, summer and everything in between.

'You were so incredibly sweet, beautiful and a literal angel.'
New Delhi, Feb 3 : Chinese People's Liberation Army lost 42 soldiers, not four during the Galwan Valley clashes with the Indian troops in Eastern Ladakh, claims The Klaxon, an Australian newspaper, on Thursday. The clashes took place on June 15, 2020.

The Indian security establishments remained silent over the claims made by the Australian newspaper report.

The report filed by Editor Anthony Klan makes such claims citing a report of a group of social media researchers.

The newspaper states that evidence provided by a group of social media researchers, which The Klaxon has independently built on, appears to support claims that China's casualties extended well beyond the four soldiers named by Beijing.

"It also shows extreme lengths Beijing has gone to in order to silence discussion about the battle - in particular, discussion about the true number of Chinese casualties." The report citing the researchers states that the deadly June 15 battle was sparked over a temporary bridge, which Indian soldiers had erected across a stream of the Galwan River three weeks earlier, on May 22.

The report stated that the Indian and Chinese military officials had agreed to a "buffer zone" along the border in an attempt to "de-escalate the crisis" amid rising tensions.

It states that despite creation of a buffer zone, China had been building "illegal infrastructure" inside the zone, including erecting tents and creating dugouts and had moved heavy machinery into the area.

"According to a Weibo user alias name Qiang who claims to have served in the area, the PLA was creating infrastructure in this buffer zone, violating the mutual agreement and had been trying to expand its patrolling limits within the buffer zone since April 2020," the researchers state in the newspaper.

The report states: "On June 6, 80 PLA soldiers came to dismantle the bridge and nearly 100 troops came to defend it." The paper citing the report states that during the June 6 standoff, officers from both sides "agreed to withdraw all personnel who crossed the buffer zone line" and to "dismantle all the facilities that crossed the line".

However the report says China failed to adhere to the agreement.

"PLA did not adhere to its promise and instead of dismantling its own infrastructure as agreed upon, secretly dismantled the river crossing bridge constructed by the Indian army," it says.

Three days later, on June 15, Colonel Santosh and his troops returned.

The Chinese forces were led by Colonel Qi Fabao.

"On 15th June 2020, Col. Santosh Babu along with his troops went to the disputed area in the Galwan Valley at night in an attempt to remove the Chinese encroachment where Col. Qi Fabao was present along with nearly 150 soldiers," the report states.

It says that Fabao ordered his troops to form a battle formation, instead of discussing the issue on the lines of mutual consent made at the June 6 meeting.

The report says that "the moment Col. Fabao attacked he was immediately besieged by the Indian army troops".

"To rescue him, PLA battalion commander Chen Hongjun and soldier Chen Xiangrong entered the encirclement of Indian army and started (a) physical scuffle with Indian troops using steel pipes, sticks and stones to provide cover for (their) commander to escape".

India's Colonel Santosh Babu was killed in the fighting.

It further cited "several Weibo users" states: "at least 38 PLA troops along with Wang were washed away and drowned that night of which only Wang was declared among the four officially dead soldiers".

"After the incident, the bodies of the soldiers were first taken to Shiquanhe Martyr Cemetery, followed by local ceremonies at the local towns of the killed soldiers," the report states.

India had maintained that 20 soldiers were killed during the incident.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Nashik : , Feb 3 (IANS) At least two trekkers were killed and one hurt during an accident at the popular trekking site, Hadbichi Shendi hillock near Manmad, officials said here on Thursday.

According to delayed reports, the incident occurred on Wednesday evening around 6.30 p.m. when the 17-member troupe of the Indraprastha Trekkers - a professional group from adjoining Ahmednagar - were in the final stages of the descent after completing the gruelling climbing trip.

The base hill is around 400 feet tall, with the Hadbichi Shendi - or Thumbs Up Pinnacle - rising a sheer vertical height of some 200 feet, making it a difficult climb even for veteran climbers, according to locals.

"For unknown reasons, two of the persons - Anil Shivaji Wagh, 35 and Mayur Dattatreya Mhaske, 22 - suddenly fell from somewhere near the top of the Thumbs Up Pinnacle, while attempting to remove the bouldering ropes," a friend and professional climber Vaibhav Lotake told IANS.

Both Wagh and Mhaske fell to their death and succumbed instantly, even as their horror-stricken 15 co-climbers, including eight girls, watched helplessly from below the hill.

Another person, Pravin Pawar sustained minor injuries when he rushed up to help the duo and is said to be fine now.

Late last night, with the help of local villagers, the bodies of Wagh and Mhaske were brought down and shifted to a Manmad hospital for autopsy.

On Thursday morning, the mortal remains were handed over to their stunned families for the last rites to be performed in their village in Ahmednagar this evening, Lotake said.

This is stated to be the first accident of its kind reported at Hadbichi Shendi, which is a popular all-year trekking destination by adventurers from all over India, said Lotake, who has scaled it a couple of times.
Healthcare as a sector has evolved, especially in the last 10 years. Healthcare communication was always been a challenge as earlier there were lot of restrictions from the Indian medical council when you communicate to your end audiences. The primary audience has always been the doctors, who were reached through the medical sales force of the pharma companies or through medical seminars, which were held at periodic intervals by various medical associations. But over a period of time, the industry has moved up and today it has become vast, growing and a promising sector, especially in the pandemic times. Industry leaders, government stakeholders, individuals and research experts are all viewing healthcare differently today as there are multiple challenges that the industry is facing.

Especially after the pandemic, the need for strong, effective and differentiated communication using PR and Digital as a tool has become very pivotal. The opportunity is huge and both healthcare companies and PR agencies need to collaborate closely and address several gaps in the healthcare business through a well thought out communication strategy. This also brings in a huge opportunity and responsibility for the healthcare companies to serve the society by providing the correct information and educating the people at large about the various aspects of health and the advancement in the medical ecosystem  both at the doctor and the patient levels. Globally, we are still fighting the pandemic and the recent rise in Covid cases has again partially disrupted the world. So, any credible educational campaign with the right messaging will help the world at large and instil confidence.

The pandemic has brought in a major shift in behavioural changes both at the doctor and the patient levels. With no seminars and conferences happening, digital has been at the forefront and is playing a vital role. Doctors have also slowly adapted to these changes and today a majority of patients are also consulting online as there is still a fear to visit a doctor or hospital. New and innovative approaches will have to be adopted to adapt to the changing situation and digital will play a vital role. This is the right opportunity for healthcare brands to create value and this where both PR and digital will remarkably help the healthcare industry to engage and converse closely with their audience, using new tools which can also help in measuring the ROI of the various campaign activities.

Healthcare as a sector and practice is growing in importance even as the industry is grappling with many challenges with the doctor fraternity, patients and the government bodies. The need to promote and support the healthcare industry will help in building a positive image for the sector among several stakeholders. Hence, it is important for PR consultants to have a deeper understanding and expertise to help the sector grow and solve the many challenges that keep coming up with really a focussed communication strategy. The key challenge for the PR companies is to attract talented professionals who understand healthcare and who can drive the healthcare practice. There should some concerted efforts from the PR agencies to look at specialised training to grow the healthcare practice, which will be a win-win situation for both.

Adgully spoke to a cross section of the industry  both clients and agencies. Aman Gupta, Managing Partner, SPAGs, who has a vast experience in pharma practice, pointed out, The healthcare sector, which spans from hospitals, diagnostics, medical devices to pharmaceuticals, has always had a huge responsibility while putting out any communication. The Covid pandemic brought healthcares role and relevance at the centre of the global narrative and along with it came the opportunities and challenges. It encompassed elements of ensuring factually correct, scientifically accurate information delivered through credible voices and channels. It also required having a robust system to listen and seek insights on a real time basis and having a strong response mechanism to counter the huge number of rumours and mis-information.

He further said that as a sector that deals with lives of the people, healthcare recognises its responsibilities and has partnered with specialist players, stakeholders and communicators to ensure that a robust multi-channel ecosystem is created that is able to engage, inform and educate. The most challenging thing in this ecosystem was to build trust through communication by establishing relevance. This is where PR comes in to structurally build an integrated communications ecosystem to connect all touch points using data and research to build campaigns that in turn deliver business impact. Its a full circle focussed on battling the core challenge of misinformation in the healthcare sector and battling the lack of trusted, credible sources of information, Gupta added.

Sharing her views, Hemali Bhutani, Managing Director, GCI Health India, noted, One of the biggest challenges that the pandemic threw at us was the lack of verified information. For the healthcare sector, that was the primary objective because verified information is the most effective prevention against the disease of panic. We as health communication experts have an obligation to spread concise and valid information that is unambiguous, evidence-based, has a focused messaging, combined with persuasive mobilisation of people and resources. An integrated (combining digital and traditional media) and multi-stakeholder approach had to be taken. Data analytics also had a huge play in this. To bring all this alive, healthcare communicators had to unlearn and re-learn some fundamentals and then consider not just their own objectives but the greater common good.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought along with it many challenges as well as a unique opportunity for every organisation to re-strategise, re-think and re-prioritise how they interact with their stakeholders. Ajey Maharaj, Head - Corporate Communications & PR, Fortis Healthcare, pointed out that for communicators in the healthcare space, this has been a transformative period. Expectations have been high and we had a lot to communicate. The situation also provided an opportunity to strengthen our communication outreach with the general public, existing patients and other stakeholders. Our communications strategy was focused on promoting COVID-19 appropriate behaviour, enumerating preventive methodologies, amplifying stories of patient recoveries and highlighting the exceptional work being done by the healthcare workers in spite of the dangers. We also shared scientifically accurate medical advice to allay fears and bust myths or misconceptions around testing, treatment and vaccinations. The brand engaged in digital outreach where our clinicians participated on various media platforms to educate and create awareness about Coivd-19 care, critical care, vaccination process and its procedures.

Deepak Jolly, Founder, Consocia Advisory, added here, Over the last two years, the healthcare sector has undergone a major transformation. From non-communicable diseases to other infections, our core focus has been on both preventive and curative healthcare, while having a deeper relook at over delivery of health care across the country  seamlessly and equitably. Asthma and COPD, Lung diseases, Strokes, TB, Diabetes, Hearing Impairment, and medical devices, including new diagnostic technologies like TM Lamp, that can help in prevention and cure of NCD.

He further said, Communicators like us have been explaining and creating simple yet impactful narratives for complex problems which can be understood by masses. We have been a pioneer in PPP, advocacy on various diseases that have the largest Burden of Disease in the country supporting companies with PR, Public Policy & Advocacy, as well as Market Access for various diseases prevention, cure and better management thereby helping reduce its economic burden substantially.

Magline Rufina FR, Director - Communications, Boehringer Ingelheim India, pointed out that there has been a marked increase in the demand for information around the correlation between various diseases, role of specialised care, availability of healthcare infrastructure, etc. As people continue to remain eager for more such information, it is essential that credible information and guidance around various diseases is made available, to reduce the burden of illness and healthcare costs to families and the country. Availability of meaningful and usable information can help in assuaging anxieties and minimise negative impact of misinformation. To this end, PR and communications play a pivotal role.

She further said, At Boehringer Ingelheim India, we have been engaging with various audiences through information programs that are consistent, comprehensive, easily accessible, audience-friendly, and geographically relevant. We have been leveraging digital channels to ensure consistent engagement with HCPs. Such engagements enable access to global knowledge on medical developments. Additionally, tools such as virtual ad-boards, podcasts, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and social networks have helped us understand HCPs preferences and patient needs, thus helping us maintain interactivity and connectedness, despite restrictions in face-to-face engagement.
Juba, Feb 3 : South Sudan's oil production has reduced from the previous 170,000 barrels a day to the current 156,000 bpd amid negative impacts of Covid-19 pandemic and heavy flooding since 2020, an official said.

Agak Achuil Lual, minister of Finance and Economic Planning while tabling the 2021/22 fiscal budget before the transitional national legislative assembly, said the projected reduction in oil production is due to depletion of some oil wells as well as effects of floods, reports Xinhua news agency.

South Sudan earned $1.4 billion in gross oil revenues of which $1.1 billion went to direct transfers, $148 million were paid to neighbouring Sudan as cost for processing, transportation and transit fees.

The east African Nation is projected to collect $135 million in non-oil revenues in this fiscal year, an increase of 31.1 per cent from $103 millio in the previous 2020/21 fiscal year.

"The projected increase in non-oil revenues is on account of the tax administration reforms that we are implementing at the national revenue authority, which include digitization of tax collections, broadening the tax base and the proposal to fully deploy national revenue authority staff in all the non-oil revenue collecting institutions," said Achuil.

South Sudan, the world's youngest republic which depends 95 per cent on oil revenues, is struggling to recover from years of conflict.
Bonnie and John Cumbie are in the center of this Cumbie family photo. Their son Daryel Cumbie and other family members donated $500,000 worth of land in Moncks Corner to Dorchester Children's Advocacy Center to build a Berkeley County facility to treat children have who have suffered abuse or neglect.

Cumbie family photo. Bonnie and John Cumbie are center.
CNN International has strengthened its business over the last year by growing all revenue streams, strengthening and diversifying its client base and launching innovative new products, says Abhijeet Dhar, Director  Sales, at CNN International Commercial. While we completely overhauled the way we approached client services to meet the changing expectations of clients, resulting in 100% retention of our top 25 client base, we also penetrated new sectors and attracted new advertisers to CNN, says Dhar in an interview with Adgully.

According to him, brands that partner with CNN arent just making a media buy  they are supporting essential and high-quality journalism. He dwells on the technology at hand for segment, identify, and reach specific audience segments through contextual targeting and semantics tools, first-party data and data partnerships that maintain high levels of privacy, and regulatory compliance. He also talks about CNNs brand safety and suitability tool SAM (Sentiment Analysis Moderator) which uses neuro-linguistic AI to analyse brand-suitability. Excerpts from the interview:

How are brands revamping their business strategies in order to make the most of the current situation?

The current situation, with the pandemic in the background, has accelerated the need for brands to focus on an audience-first approach for the most effective communication. This means it is very important for the brand to be in the right/safe environment, focus on whom they want to reach out to and how they enable that outreach. What we have seen with our audiences is the increased affinity to brands who stand for something or what they mean to the audiences  and this has had a direct effect on the business strategies. The increased focus for brands on sustainability is a key trend that we have noticed growing amongst our audiences, especially in a mid-COVID world. We are using this focus on audience understanding and expectations as we work with our partners in the mid- and long-term for how they can communicate during and after COVID.

A good example of engaging sustainability content is Call to Earth, launched in 2019 as a global initiative to engage communities the world over in making a difference to protect the future of our planet. CNN also held its first-ever Call to Earth Day on November 10, 2021 to partner with schools, individuals and organisations across the world to raise awareness of environmental issues and to engage with conservation education. The huge response and engagement show the appetite amongst audiences for this positive solution-based content about the planet we live on.

In India, CNN is also actively partnering with brands to deliver inspiring content that creates awareness around sustainability. We have had an amazing 13-year partnership with Kirloskar, which has been the exclusive sponsor of CNNs Going Green, where we engage global audiences for a more sustainable future. The 2021 advertising campaign explored green technology solutions for a sustainable future along with additional content across TV, digital and social platforms.

Furthermore, the importance of trust has never been higher than it is in our current climate. As we approach a slow return to a reformed version of normal, there is a fresh opportunity for brands to re-engage with consumers, reset their views, and build the trust they crave. And right now, strong brand values and purpose matter more than ever.

CNNs mission is to inform the world and tell the truth. Brands that partner with CNN arent just making a media buy  they are supporting essential and high-quality journalism. We dont just tell stories about climate crisis and sustainability  all branded content from CNNIC is now carbon-neutral, and we lead the way in working with the Advertising Association and the Ad Net Zero initiative.

How has the pandemic affected CNN? How have the advertising spends been, especially over the last one year?

We have strengthened our business over the last year by growing all revenue streams, strengthening and diversifying our client base and launching innovative new products.

While we completely overhauled the way we approached client services to meet the changing expectations of clients, resulting in 100% retention of our top 25 client base, we also penetrated new sectors and attracted new advertisers to CNN which led to growth in sectors such as tech, finance, energy, consumer durables & auto with a build back of travel & tourism.

The CNN brand has also forayed into new areas of learning and development (CNN Academy), clothing (CNN Apparel), Direct-to-Consumer (CNN Live, in the UK), and in-live events that provide significant brand opportunities such as the We Love NYC: Homecoming Concert. CNNIC is in a strong position because of the trusted consultancy we provided our partners when they needed us most, and through the accelerated diversification of our business and client base.

What are the shifts in consumer behaviour and business models during the pandemic?

For many years now CNN has acted both editorially and commercially as a 24/7 cross-platform company rather than as a solely linear TV business. This long-term strategy positioned us well for last year as COVID resulted in us evolving our product offering to reach audiences in new ways and develop different solutions for advertisers. Key trends that we are seeing amongst our audiences include a demand for the return of travel, the environment, sustainability and conservation, and diversity and inclusion.

CNN prioritises the consumer and audiences above everything else. We are steadfast in our understanding that we must continue to invest heavily in product and technology in order to innovate and drive growth. We have built  and continue to build  a product and technology team that works to power user experiences for hundreds of millions of people all over the world to engage with our journalism, storytelling and services. They are committed to breaking down the walls between our content, audiences and advertisers to ensure CNN serves the best interests.

Consumers are going to continue to demand and expect instantaneous, personally relevant, and seamless experiences whenever they want it and wherever they are. In order to thrive, we are seeing media-building user-experiences and relationships with our audiences.

Could you talk about the audience-first strategy that will evolve in 2022-23 and other trends?

CNN International Commercials Audience-First strategy puts audiences at the heart of every campaign rather than focus on platform or geography. We focus on creating and delivering solutions for clients that have the most impact with defined audiences on a global scale and enhancing our audiences advertising experience across all CNN platforms. We are optimising how we partner with brands to have maximum impact with audiences at a time of accelerated change in both consumer behaviour and the way advertisers are connecting with customers.

CNN International Commercials Audience-First strategy is built on four unique principles underpinned by tech, insight and creative excellence:

We know our audience, their behaviours, motivations and interests

Our creative content/ campaigns are based on deep audience insight

We create the very best ad experience using innovative new formats

Our next-gen targeting ensures the right audiences are reached at the right moment.

What are the innovative consumer strategies and campaigns that have garnered considerable audience attention?

CNNIC continues to deliver new, innovative solutions to help our clients engage and connect with our audiences in different ways. To navigate the complexity of the digital advertising ecosystem, CNN uses a range of brand suitability tools drawing on the latest proprietary and third-party technology. This ensures that advertisers messages appear in appropriate context and can maximise greater volume of CNNs inventory.

We have taken our learnings and insights with brands to inform the next phase of our partnerships with clients from India and the South Asia region to build an evolution module for our audiences with the brands such as Dyson, Accenture, Thoughtworks, Maldives Tourism, Ministry of Commerce Bangladesh  to name a few.

How did you revive the consumer sentiment with data and storytelling?

At CNN, we marry the brand-building power of television with the data-driven and insight-driven creative world of digital. We are in a unique position to offer business insights to our clients, thanks to the huge amount of data and technology underpinning all our platforms, including TV.

In fact, we have invested in some of that technology ourselves, making it proprietary. The technology that we have ranges from data management platforms where we can segment audiences based on interest. We are able to identify and reach specific audience segments through a range of sophisticated contextual targeting and semantics tools, first-party data and data partnerships that maintain high levels of privacy, and regulatory compliance. CNNs brand safety and suitability tool SAM (Sentiment Analysis Moderator) uses neuro-linguistic AI to analyse the context of sentences across text, audio, video and galleries, classifying it as positive, neutral, mixed or negative to determine when content is brand-suitable. This ensures advertising is adjacent to the most appropriate content.

Publishers are refitting themselves around a sales process that works for how the pandemic changed existing processes. For CNN, we are focused on approaching each campaign in an audience-first way, rather than by platform or geography. This ties in audience behaviour, insight-based creative and sophisticated targeting.
The new China Premium Data Set from Loqate, a GBG solution, is the most comprehensive premise-level address data for mainland China on the market

on the market Accurate address data will help businesses sell to the 140 million Chinese customers who buy products and services outside of China annually

annually Verifying individuals with accurate address data also helps ensure companies, such as retailers and banks, meet regional compliance requirements

LONDON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Loqate, a GBG solution, is making it easier than ever before for businesses based outside China to take advantage of the growing cross-border market, enabling them to sell and deliver goods and services to hundreds of millions of Chinese consumers. With the launch of the new China Premium Data Set - the most comprehensive premise-level address data for mainland China on the market  Loqate can help businesses quickly verify, onboard, and deliver to Chinese consumers.

China is home to 1.4 billion people, 140 million of which shop outside of the country for goods and services. According to Statista, the value of cross-border imports into China is valued at 2.8tn Yuan. But for companies operating outside the country, it can often be difficult to effectively sell and ship goods cross-border due to poor address-level data on consumers. Poor data makes it difficult to verify a customer, to identify and deliver to their address and causes compliance issues with Chinese regulations.

Loqate's China Premium Data Set ensures quality and accuracy of address data on Chinese consumers. It is integrated into Loqate's existing solutions, Capture and Verify, ensuring Loqate can now provide scalable address data capture, verification and enrichment solutions to businesses looking to reach the Chinese consumer. With more accurate address data on Chinese consumers, businesses will now be able to:

Reduce failed deliveries: Verifying addresses up-front can save businesses wasted costs in failed delivery attempts and chargebacks. Loqate customers have reduced failed delivery rates by up to 70%

Verifying addresses up-front can save businesses wasted costs in failed delivery attempts and chargebacks. Loqate customers have reduced failed delivery rates by up to 70% Enhance the customer experience: Loqate's Address Capture will auto-populate any Chinese address fields in three keystrokes or less, reducing data entry time by more than 78% and errors by 20%

Loqate's Address Capture will auto-populate any Chinese address fields in three keystrokes or less, reducing data entry time by more than 78% and errors by 20% Meet regional compliance requirements: Improved address-level data can help companies better verify shoppers, while also helping ensure Know Your Customer (KYC), anti-fraud regulations and address data quality requirements in region are met

Matthew Furneaux, Director of Location Intelligence at Loqate, said: "Being able to reach Chinese consumers online has never been more important, as wealthy Chinese consumers travel less and spend more on their home turf, according to research from consultancy firm Bain. This will have a profound impact on the luxury retail sector, for example, with China set to become the world's biggest luxury market by 2025.

"Without accurate address data on Chinese consumers, however, businesses based overseas will find it increasingly difficult to capture this market - with failed deliveries, poor customer experience and compliance issues a major concern. The new data set is a game-changer, making it easier than ever before for companies to get a foothold and grow in the Chinese market."

About Loqate, a GBG company

Loqate is the world's most trusted location intelligence service, helping every business in the world reach every customer in the world. Over 20,000 businesses rely on Loqate every day to reach their customers across 250 countries and territories. Loqate's expertise in global addressing is supported by team members located around the world, including the US, UK, Germany, Malaysia, China and Australia. Loqate is a GBG solution. GBG, experts in digital identity, offers a range of solutions that help organizations quickly validate and verify the identity and location of their customers. For more information, visit: www.loqate.com and www.gbgplc.com.

SOURCE Loqate, a GBG company
HomeLane announced the appointment of Udit Mediratta as its Chief Marketing Officer;effective 25th January, 2022. Udit will play a pivotal role in leading the brand innovation and customer acquisition strategies for the company. He will report to HomeLanes Co-founder & COO, Tanuj Choudhry.

In his new role, Udit will also focus on HomeLanes go-to-market strategy, brand building, lead generation to drive growth and in increasing customer mindshare through integrated marketing communications.

Udit joins HomeLane from AB InBev in Singapore, where he was the Director Of Marketing & Commercial Operations for the company in the South East Asia region. With over 14 years of experience, he will bring cross- sectorial experience and global strategic expertise, on board.

Commenting on the appointment, Srikanth Iyer & Tanuj Choudhry, Co-Founders, HomeLane said, Udit is a highly capable marketing leader with extensive industry experience and a proven-track record of building strategies for leading global brands. He will add significant value to our brand, HomeLane and help us evolve and augment our customer engagement.

The co-founders also added, Considering the growth of HomeLane, despite the uncertainties of the pandemic, we continue to invest in and strengthen our team with our focus to capture new opportunities, expand our services into more markets. We are delighted to welcome Udit on board and look forward to working with him.

Expressing his delight, Udit Mediratta said, It has been impressive to see the growth of HomeLane. I truly look forward to joining this dynamic and innovation-driven company with an exceptionally committed team and to contribute towards scaling the future growth of the company.

Through his professional career, Udit has worked with reputed multi-nationals including AB InBev and Johnson & Johnson, where he has successfully led teams across the United States, China, India and South East Asia, to deliver accelerated growths and market leadership. He also worked as a Director of Marketing in India, before moving to Singapore, wherein he helped establish Budweiser as the #1 most powerful and leading premium beer brand. Udit is passionate about building brands in culture, nurturing brand communities and product and brand design. He is an alumnus of Manipal Institute of Technology and INSEAD.
Chennai, Feb 3 : Tamil Nadu Police has started a detailed probe into the source of seven idols that were recovered from a group of people on Wednesday in Madurai.

The Idol theft squad of the police have already arrested a BJP minority wing leader T. Alexandar and two cops - head constable Ilankumaran (44) of Jokilpatti police station in Aruppukottai and constable Nagendran (38) of Armed Reserve police from Dindigul.

Another person, P. Karuppusami (36) of Kooraikundu in Virudhunagar was also arrested. However, two other persons, Rajesh of Ramanathapuram and Ganeshan of Virudhunagar are on the run.

The idol theft squad on receiving a tip-off apprehended Alexandar from whom idols were recovered. A senior police officer told IANS that it has to be ascertained whether the idol is panchaloha or not.

The seven idols that were recovered from Alexandar include, Natarajar (2 ft), Natarajar (1.25 ft), Nagakanni (1.5 ft), Kaali (1 ft), Murugan(0.75 ft), Vinayagar (0.5 ft) and Nagadevathai (0.5 ft). The idols, according to police were recovered from a water body in Koorisathanar Ayyanar temple, Ramanathapuram.

Alexander on interrogation told the investigating officers that the idols were given to him by Ilankumaran and Karuppasamy. The duo informed the role of Nagendran and Ganeshan in the case.

Idol theft squad officers said that the four had threatened a group of smugglers a few years ago stating that they were from the Idol theft squad and took in possession the seven idols that were later concealed in the water body.

Police said that the four of them were trying to sell the idols for an amount of Rs 5 crore when the Idol theft squad got a tip-off and arrested all the four accused. The Idol theft squad officers told IANS that an investigation is on to ascertain from where these smugglers had got the idols and if these idols were stolen from some temples.

A senior officer of the idol theft squad told IANS, "We have already arrested four people and identified two more in the gang who had concealed the idols in a water body at Ramanathapuram. However, we have to get the details of the origin of these idols and to ascertain whether these idols were stolen or whether they were replicas of some idols."
President Joe Biden met with New York officials on Thursday to discuss gun violence and honored two NYPD officers who recently died in the line of duty.

Biden said the officers' deaths are a loss for the nation, and he outlined his plan to combat gun crime, including more funding for community intervention programs.

Their futures were cut short by a man with a stolen Glock and a 40 round magazine, Biden said of officers Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera.

Biden's visit comes amid deepening national concern over public safety and attacks on police officers. New York Mayor Eric Adams and other local officials are asking for federal assistance in curbing the flow of guns into the state, among other new measures.

"The president is here because he knows what the American people want: justice, safety and prosperity," Adams said. "They deserve every bit of it, and he wants to end the gun violence in our city and in our country."

President Joe Biden hands a note to New York City Mayor Eric Adams during a discussion on gun violence strategies, at police headquarters, Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022, in New York. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) ORG XMIT: NYAB213

A senior administration official said Biden, who spoke with the families of the slain officers, decided to go to New York not just because the city has seen a spike in gun violence, but also because it has deployed strategies the president supports to combat gun crime.

In conjunction with Bidens visit, the Justice Department announced several new initiatives to help combat gun violence, including a National Ghost Gun Enforcement Initiative to train a small group of prosecutors on enforcement issues in cases involving untraceable weapons without serial numbers.

Attorney General Merrick Garland accompanied Biden on the trip, and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul also attended the president's meetings.

Bidens visit comes on the heels of the first police fatalities in New York City in 2022, and amid broader concerns about a nationwide rise in homicides.

Mora and Rivera were shot in Harlem last month after they were called to respond to a domestic disturbance. Rivera, 22, died the night of the shooting. Mora, 27, was taken off life support last week. In total, five New York Police Department officers were shot in January.

Story continues

No 'surrender': Mayor Eric Adams lays out gun violence plan after NYPD officers killed

Adams, a retired police officer sworn in last month as mayor, last week unveiled a plan to combat gun violence following the attacks on NYPD officers. As part of his strategy, Adams has called for reestablishing controversial anti-crime police units, alleviating a backlog of gun cases in the court system and addressing root causes of violence through all city agencies.

"New Yorkers feel as if a sea of violence is engulfing our city," Adams said in a speech announcing his strategy. "But as your mayor, I promise you, I will not let this happen. We will not surrender our city to the violent few, and we won't go back to the bad old days."

On Thursday, Biden, alongside Garland, Adams and Hochul, met at NYPD headquarters, where the president renewed his call to Congress to pass a budget that would offer $300 million for community policing.

It's time to fund communities, community police and the people who run to protect them, the president said.

The president also outlined the Justice Department's new initiatives, which include directing DOJ to send resources to help shut down the "Iron Pipeline," which funnels guns from shops from Southern states like Georgia to Northern states like Pennsylvania and New York.

More: Police attacked in at least 5 states in about a week. Are officers being targeted?

Biden, along with Adams, also visited with leaders of the Community Capacity Development, a community violence intervention program, in Queens to discuss their work addressing gun violence.

From 2019 to 2020, the United States murder rate rose 30%, according to data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last year. There also has been a large jump in firearm sales since the start of the pandemic, with Americans buying more guns in 2020 and in 2021 than in previous years.

Lauren-Brooke Eisen, director of the Brennan Centers Justice Program, said economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic; interruption of family life and services such as after school programs; and increased isolation have contributed to an increase in violent crimes.

The last couple of years increase in violent crime is something we shouldn't downplay, Eisen said. But we also need to keep in mind this backdrop, which is that crime is still nowhere near where it was in the late '80s and early '90s.

Biden last year released a comprehensive plan to tackle gun crime, which included funding to cities through the American Rescue Plan  the COVID-19 stimulus package passed last year  to add more police officers to local departments and to support community violence intervention programs. In addition, the Department of Justice last year launched gun trafficking forces to help reduce firearms violence.

More: 'I can't believe the numbers': Mass shootings, homicide rates, gun sales hit highest levels since 1990s

Despite these efforts, only 36% of Americans approve of Bidens handling of crime, according to an ABC News/Ipsos poll released in December. In addition, just 32% of Americans approve of Bidens handling of gun violence.

Eisen said Biden should stress that the increase in violence in cities such as New York is a side effect of the pandemic, while emphasizing he is committed to safe communities.

It's important that he rejects fearmongering and really stresses that a world of public safety with a more humane criminal legal system is one that's attainable and something that he's committed to helping provide, she said.

Contributing: Ryan W. Miller

Reach Rebecca Morin at Twitter @RebeccaMorin_

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Crime: Biden visits NY to discuss gun violence after NYPD killings
Gurugram, Feb 3 : A 42-year-old man was killed after unidentified assailants opened fire at him outside his house in Gurugram's Rithoj village early Thursday morning. The victim received two gunshot wounds on the head and in the neck, the police said.

The deceased was identified as Sanjay Khatana, a resident of Rithoj village.

Around 2 a.m. on Thursday, Sanjay was just 100 metres away from his house when unidentified assailants arrived and opened fire at him, the police said.

A resident discovered the victim's body a few metres away from his home and informed his family, said a police official, quoting the statements by residents.

Sanjay's family rushed him to a private hospital where he was declared dead. A case of murder has been registered at the Bhondsi police station, the police added.

"The incident is being probed from all possible angles. The deceased' family has also not alleged anything so far," said a senior police official, requesting anonymity.

The police said that they were scanning footage of CCTV cameras on the possible routes that the accused persons may have taken while fleeing the crime spot.
Months after U.S. intelligence operatives tracked the leader of the Islamic State terror group to a non-descript residential building in northwest Syria, Amir Muhammad Sa'id Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla, detonated an explosive, killing himself and his family while U.S. forces closed in.

The account of the IS leader's death Thursday, from senior U.S. administration officials, came hours after reports of a major U.S. counterterrorism operation first began to emerge from Atmeh, a town in Syria's Idlib province, not far from the border with Turkey.

Accounts on social media described helicopters and U.S. forces descending on the three-story building as part of a hourslong operation, with some saying U.S. forces used loudspeakers to get civilians out of the building before an intense firefight erupted.

U.S. raid and civilian casualties

But the U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the operation in detail, said most of the death and destruction was caused by al-Mawla, also known as Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi and as Hajji 'Abdallah, and one of his lieutenants who also lived in the building, and were determined not to be taken alive.

"In a final act of cowardice and disregard for human life, Hajji 'Abdallah detonated a blast, a significant blast killing himself and several others, including his wife and children," one of the officials said during a call with reporters. "The blast was so large on the third floor that it blew bodies outside of the house and into the surrounding areas."

The IS lieutenant, U.S. officials said, then proceeded to barricade himself with his wife and family on the second floor and engaged U.S. forces before being killed.

U.S. officials said they could not confirm how many civilians were killed in the operation, emphasizing the IS leader appeared to have chosen to live in the residential building precisely because of the presence of civilians, including families with children.

Groups, like the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said Thursday that at least 13 people had been killed, including three women and four children.

The U.S. officials said before the initial explosion  set off by al-Mawla  one family, including a mother, father and several children were able to escape. Another group of four children managed to escape following the death of al-Mawla's lieutenant.

The officials said, however, that all efforts to get other civilians out of the building were purposely hampered by the IS leaders.

"All casualties at the site were due to the acts of ISIS terrorists and inside the residents," the official said, using another acronym for the Islamic State group. "ISIS has been clear over and over again its utter and complete disregard for human life and that was clearly on display throughout the operation last night."

Biden remarks

U.S. President Joe Biden confirmed al-Mawla's death in a statement early Thursday, praising "the skill and bravery of our Armed Forces."

"Last night at my direction, U.S. military forces in northwest Syria successfully undertook a counterterrorism operation to protect the American people and our allies, and make the world a safer place," Biden said. "All Americans have returned safely from the operation."

Speaking later Thursday at the White House, Biden said the operation to take al-Mawla off the battlefield should send a strong message.

"This operation is testament to America's reach and capability to take out terrorist threats no matter where they try to hide," he said. "We will come after you and find you."

The U.S. president also praised the work of the U.S. intelligence community and the "essential partnership" of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, noting al-Mawla was directly involved in the planning of IS' recent weeklong assault on a prison in Hasaka, in northeastern Syria, in an attempt to free thousands of detained IS fighters.

U.S. officials said both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris watched the operation unfold from the White House Situation room, keenly aware of the danger of trying to get the terror leader as he hid among civilians.

"It was an explicit decision to conduct a raid as opposed to a standoff strike of any sort," a second senior administration official said. "We had a good sense of who was in the building  and had taken numerous safeguards throughout the rehearsals and planning to protect those individuals."

The officials said planning for the operation began months earlier, with the president getting a final briefing in December that included a model of the area, highlighting the dangers involved, both for civilians and for U.S. forces who were going to be on the ground for about two hours.

They also said special forces even planned for the likelihood that al-Mawla would kill himself with an explosive device, studying the building to make sure a detonation would not bring it down.

"We had high confidence that if he did that as he did, that the building would remain structurally sound as it did," the first official said. "But I just want to emphasize, I doubt he knew that. And it was probably his intent to kill everybody in that building."

Officials said despite the success of the initial operation, there were some complications.

One of the helicopters used to get troops to al-Mawla's hideout experienced mechanical difficulties and had to be abandoned and destroyed shortly after leaving the site.

U.S. forces also briefly came under attack from fighters with the al-Qaida affiliated Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), killing two of them in the ensuing firefight.

Al-Mawla

Al-Mawla took control of IS in November 2019, shortly after U.S. special forces killed former leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, also in a raid in northwestern Syria.

IS media officials quickly sought to build support for al-Mawla, posting a stream of photos and videos showing the terror groups various affiliates pledging allegiance to the new emir.

But unlike Baghdadi, who made rare but periodic appearances, al-Mawla was much more reclusive to evade the same fate as his predecessor.

One United Nations counterterrorism report last year noted, al-Mawla "remains reluctant to communicate directly with supporters."

Still, it is not entirely surprising U.S. forces tracked al-Mawla to northwestern Syria, which traditionally has been a hub for groups affiliated with al-Qaida, IS' main rival.

Western counterterrorism officials and U.N. member state intelligence agencies have long warned Idlib, in particular, "remains a strategic location for [IS] fighters and family members, in particular as a gateway to Turkey."

And in March 2020, the commander of U.S. Central Command, General Kenneth "Frank" McKenzie, said there are "remnants of ISIS" in Idlib "that do entertain attack plans against us."

Disrupting IS operations

The death of al-Mawla could be a pivotal blow to IS, which until now has proven to be resilient in the face of major setbacks.

"We anticipate that this is going to lead to disruption within ISIS," according to a senior administration official. "He's really one of the few remaining, shall we call them legacy leaders."

U.S. officials said that while al-Mawla sought to keep a low profile, he remained in control to run IS through a network of couriers, overseeing operations in Syria and Iraq, while also directing coordination with IS affiliates around the world, a role he played even under the group's previous leader.

U.S. intelligence official previously said al-Mawla had been a key architect of the Islamic State's slaughter of the Yazidi religious minority.

Al-Mawla's death also comes months after IS suffered a serious setback in Iraq.

This past October, Iraqi forces arrested Sami Jasim Muhammad al-Jaburi, also known as Hajji Hamid, described by the Pentagon as "one of ISIS's most senior leaders."

One Western counterterrorism official, speaking to VOA on the condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence, called al-Jaburi's arrest "very significant" as Al-Jaburi was seen as a candidate to potentially replace al-Mawla should he be killed or captured.
A volunteer poses for selfies at the Olympic Village for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics in Yanqing District of Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 31, 2022. (Photo by An Yaoyang/Xinhua)

BEIJING, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has replied separately to letters from Victoria Woodards and Dick Muri, mayors of Tacoma and Steilacoom of the U.S. state of Washington.

In his reply letters, which were sent on Monday, Xi pointed out that the Beijing Olympic Winter Games is a happy event for the Chinese people and a great event for the international Olympic cause.

With the support of the Chinese people and the international community, he said, China will certainly present a simple, safe and splendid Olympic Games, practice the Olympic motto of "Faster, Higher, Stronger - Together," and bring people across the world together for a shared future.

Photo taken with a mobile phone shows a giant Chinese knot with emblem of the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games on Tian'anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 20, 2022. (Xinhua/Chen Yehua)

Xi also extended holiday greetings to all citizens of the two cities.

Woodards and Muri recently wrote to Xi separately, extending their Spring Festival greetings to the Chinese president and people and wishing the Beijing Winter Olympics a success.

Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Woodards said, it is fortunate for the whole world to have a responsible host country with great organizational capacity like China to hold a safe, healthy and successful Winter Olympics.

Volunteers work at 2022 Beijing Media Center for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 1, 2022. (Xinhua/Chen Junqing)

The people of Tacoma will watch the Beijing Winter Olympics and cheer for athletes and for Beijing, she added.

In his letter, Muri said that the Steilacoom people hold high expectations for the Beijing Winter Olympics and believe it will be well organized and successful.

He added that he and his family, as well as the 6,700 residents of Steilacoom, look forward to watching the wonderful performance of the athletes on television.

The two mayors also conveyed their wish that the Year of the Tiger will be a year of enhancing peace, friendship and unity. 
Bengaluru, Feb 3 : Showing no signs of abating, hijab row in Karnataka has spread to more colleges as girl students wearing hijab or burqa were stopped at the entrance of the Bhandarkars' College of Kundapur in Udupi district of the state on Thursday morning.

The girl students who came to the college wearing burqa or hijab were stopped at the entrance by the Principal of Bhandrakars' College. The Principal told students that as per the government order and college guidelines they will have to come in uniform to the classes. The girl students argued that they have been coming to the college in hijab for a long time and they must be permitted. But the entry was denied.

The administration of Bhandrakars' College on Wednesday had also denied permission to students who came to classes in saffron shawls. These groups of students were also stopped at the entrance. The students raised slogans of 'Jai Shri Ram' after which a tense situation prevailed in the campus.

Meanwhile, Araga Jnanendra, Karnataka Home Minister stated that the directions have already been given to the police department to take up the investigation on communal forces behind the hijab row in the state. "The investigation is underway. We will not spare the elements which come in the way of unity of this country," he stated.

"Naqab, burqa, hijab, saffron or green shawls are not allowed in the classrooms. The minister for Education has already stated that uniforms are compulsory. There should not be any divisive factors in the academic environment. There are mosques, churches and temples for religious practices," the Home Minister explained. "With these developments, the etiquette of integrity is being challenged," he said.

S. Angara, the District In-Charge Minister of Udupi, reacting to Bhandarkar college incident said that he has just taken charge of the district. "There will be one rule for all schools and colleges. I will discuss the matter with the District Commissioner. The matter will also be discussed with the Education Minister and the Chief Minister. Once I get the details, I will take action," he stated.

Hijab row which has been confined to one college in Udupi has now spread to more colleges in Karnataka causing concern in the department of Education as well as parents and student community. The development is also taking a communal turn threatening the academic atmosphere of the state.

The state government has set up a high level committee to decide whether to allow hijab wearing students in classrooms. Until the report is submitted, the government has asked students to attend classes in uniform without wearing hijab. However, Muslim students, defying the order, tried to attend classes wearing hijab in the Government Girl's Pre-University College of Udupi. They were sent back.

Meanwhile, Hindu organisations have said that if Muslim students come in hijab, Hindu students will flaunt saffron shawls. Campus Front of India (CFI), the student wing of Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) is holding seminars on how the ruling BJP is bulldozing constitutional rights of Muslim women by not allowing them to wear hijab.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Mumbai, Feb 3 : With two of his projects -- 'Looop Lapeta' (Netflix) and 'Rocket Boys' (SonyLIV) -- releasing on Friday, Dibyendu Bhattacharya says that a webseries is more interesting than a TV soap because of the creative liberty it offers to every character of the narrative that neither TV nor a feature film does.

After graduating from the National School of Drama, Divyendu made his debut in cinema with Mira Nair's 'Monsoon Wedding', followed by roles in 'Maqbool', 'Black Friday', 'Dev D.' and 'Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal'.

However, he gained visibility, in the recent past through web series such as 'Criminal Justice', 'Delhi Crime', 'Jamtara - Sabka Number Ayega', 'Lalbazaar', 'Mirzapur Season 2' and 'Ray'.

Elaborating on his transition, the actor told IANS: "I think that has everything to do with the creative space. You see, things that you cannot do elaborately in a feature film, you get a chance to do them in a web series. But when it comes to TV serials, from the kind of content made in the recent past, we can see how limited these are as a medium for actors to express themselves.

"I love cinema and theatre. Being a theatre actor and student of NSD, my approach is different and what I have realised is that a web series is like an extended version of a well-made film. That is why it is interesting and actors like us are getting their due." The actor is playing an antagonist in the Taapsee Pannu-starrer 'Looop Lapeta' and in 'Rocket Boys', too, he has a pivotal part to play in the narrative. His 'Rocket Boys' character, Raza Mehdi, is an amalgamation of the scientists who worked with Vikram Sarabhai and Homi J. Bhabha.

"Because it is a thriller I cannot talk much about 'Looop Lapeta', but I must say that 'Rocket Boys' is a story worth waiting for. It is based on the life journeys of Vikram Sarabhai and Dr Homi J. Bhabha, who helped space research and nuclear power in India at a time when technology was not that advanced in our country. It is an entertaining story that also educates," Bhattacharya said.

The actor is also simultaneously occupied with the shooting for three new seasons of web series -- 'Undekhi', 'Jamtara' and 'Khuda Hafiz'.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Trell, Indias largest lifestyle social commerce platform, has today announced the launch of the countrys favorite European fashion brands JACK&JONES, VERO MODA, and ONLY on its platform. The launch of these popular youth brands on the platform further boost Trells offerings in the mass premium segment and strengthen its presence in the Indian fashion market.

A first for the BESTSELLER India Group, the partnership with Trell marks the fashion companys entry into the social commerce sector in India. JACK & JONES, VERO MODA, and ONLY will get access to Trells ecosystem of 18mn+ content creators and more than 100 million users to enhance brand awareness, customer accessibility, and engagement in deep pockets of both metro and non-metro cities, pan India.

Today, social commerce is driving purchase decisions for an average Indian user who spends roughly 4.6 hours consuming content on social platforms. This has led to the rapid adoption of social commerce by large brands to form a deeper engagement with consumers through immersive shopping experiences.

Speaking on the onboarding, Mr. Pulkit Agrawal, CEO, and Co-Founder of Trell said We are excited to add international fashion brands JACK&JONES, VERO MODA, and ONLY from BESTSELLER India Group to our platform. With the addition of a legacy brand, we have strengthened our apparel category while also catering to a diverse range of shoppers. As the go-to lifestyle destination for Gen Z and millennials, we're delighted that BESTSELLER Group has partnered with Trell to enter India's Social Commerce landscape.

Speaking on the future-forward partnership, Mr. Vineet Gautam, CEO & Country Head, BESTSELLER India, said, We are constantly trying to discover newer ways to communicate with our customers and our partnership with Trell will help us in that endeavor. Influencer marketing is now a full-fledged marketing channel and combined with the offering of social commerce, we see tremendous opportunity in this partnership with Trell

Synonymous with contemporary fashion and designs, JACK&JONES, VERO MODA, and ONLY will together offer high on-trend international fashion on social commerce platform Trell.

Trell Shop currently offers products from several prominent and growing brands, including Bombay Shaving Company, LOreal, Garnier, Plum Goodness, Calvin Klein, Elle 18, Global Desi, Bewakoof, etc. The new launches will add to Trells massive portfolio of 1000+ brands in beauty, fashion, mom & baby care, and personal care categories.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. and LONDON, Feb. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Intech Investment Management LLC ("Intech" or "the company"), a specialized global quantitative equity manager, and Janus Henderson Group plc ("Janus Henderson") (NYSE/ASX: JHG) announced today that Intech's management team will acquire the company from Janus Henderson. The transaction is expected to close before the end of the first half of 2022. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Upon completion of the transaction, Intech will become a fully independent company, increasing its alignment with clients and providing additional flexibility to deliver enhanced value for clients, partners, employees and all stakeholders. Intech will be 100% owned by the company's founder, employees, and board members.

As part of the transaction, Intech will form a new board of directors ("the board") chaired by Churchill Franklin, Co-founder and former CEO of Acadian Asset Management. Franklin will be joined by a highly accomplished and experienced team, including Nobel Laureate Myron Scholes, PhD, and Larry Leibowitz, former COO of the New York Stock Exchange. The new board will assume an active role in overseeing the company's go-forward strategy and all other aspects of the business.

Additionally, Intech is announcing a new CEO and the following leadership updates.

Jose Marques , PhD , former Head of Trading at Bridgewater Associates, and current CEO of Entrypoint Capital, will become CEO of Intech, overseeing the company's overall operations, including directing agendas, driving profitability, managing organizational structure, strategy, and communicating with the board. Dr. Marques will also join the board as a director.





, former Head of Trading at Bridgewater Associates, and current CEO of Entrypoint Capital, will become CEO of Intech, overseeing the company's overall operations, including directing agendas, driving profitability, managing organizational structure, strategy, and communicating with the board. Dr. Marques will also join the board as a director. Adrian Banner , PhD , will transition from his role as CEO and become dedicated CIO of Intech, fortifying the company's focus on portfolio management and research. He will continue to serve on the board.





, will transition from his role as CEO and become dedicated CIO of Intech, fortifying the company's focus on portfolio management and research. He will continue to serve on the board. Jian Tang, PhD, will be promoted to Portfolio Manager, focusing on enhancing Intech's investment management process.

"As a private, fully independent company, Intech is in the best possible position to focus on portfolio management and research, improve investment outcomes for clients, and deliver long-term value to our stakeholders," said Adrian Banner, PhD, CEO and CIO of Intech. "Dr. Marques is a proven leader and effective CEO, with more than 30 years of experience in leading thoughtful and systematic transformations, and I am looking forward to partnering with him in this next chapter. He is unquestionably the right choice to lead Intech into a bright new future."

"We are supportive of Intech's new ownership structure, as it allows both organizations to focus on their key value propositions: Janus Henderson on providing active, fundamental investing; and Intech on delivering superior quantitative investment solutions to institutional investors," said Dick Weil, CEO of Janus Henderson. "Intech has a 35-year track record operating as an independently managed company, and in this new chapter Intech is well-positioned to continue its position as a leader in quantitative investing."

Today's announcement has no impact on how the company manages client assets. Intech will continue the evolution of the investment approach established by our founder in 1987. To help ensure seamless continuity in operations and client service, Intech and Janus Henderson will enter into an ongoing transition services agreement.

About Intech

Intech is a global quantitative asset manager investing on behalf of pension funds, governments, endowments, foundations, and other institutional investors worldwide. Having pioneered the application of Stochastic Portfolio Theory in 1987, Intech continues to seek distinctive alpha sources for clients in five continents. As of 31 December 2021, Intech managed US$38 billion in investment solutions, including ESG, absolute return, defensive equity, and traditional long-only strategies. For information about Intech, please visit https://www.intechinvestments.com.

About Janus Henderson

Janus Henderson Group is a leading global active asset manager dedicated to helping investors achieve long-term financial goals through a broad range of investment solutions, including equities, fixed income, quantitative equities, multi-asset, and alternative asset class strategies. At 31 December 2021, Janus Henderson had approximately US$432 billion in assets under management, more than 2,000 employees, and offices in 25 cities worldwide. Headquartered in London, the company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).

Forward-Looking Statements Disclaimer

This document includes statements concerning potential future events involving Janus Henderson Group plc that could differ materially from the events that actually occur. The differences could be caused by a number of factors, including those factors identified in Janus Henderson Group's Annual Report on Form 10K for the fiscal year ended 31 December 2020 and in other filings or furnishings made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time (Commission file no. 00138103), including those that appear under headings such as 'Risk Factors' and 'Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations'. Many of these factors are beyond the control of JHG and its management. Any forward-looking statements contained in this document are as at the date on which such statements were made. Janus Henderson Group undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements after the date they are made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

The information, statements and opinions contained in this document do not constitute a public offer under any applicable legislation or an offer to sell or solicitation of any offer to buy any securities or financial instruments or any advice or recommendation with respect to such securities or other financial instruments.

Not all products or services are available in all jurisdictions.

Mutual funds in the US are distributed by Janus Henderson Distributors US LLC.

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal and fluctuation of value.

Please consider the charges, risks, expenses and investment objectives carefully before investing. For a US fund prospectus or, if available, a summary prospectus containing this and other information, please contact your investment professional or call 800.668.0434. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Janus Henderson and Intech are trademarks of Janus Henderson Group plc or one of its subsidiaries.  Janus Henderson Group plc.

Contacts

Intech:

Media

Andre Prawoto

Chief Marketing Officer

+1 (561) 776 2226

[email protected]

Prosek Partners

[email protected]

Janus Henderson:

Investor

Jim Kurtz

Co-Head Investor Relations (US)

+1 (303) 336 4529

[email protected]

Melanie Horton

Co-Head Investor Relations (Non-US)

+44 (0)20 7818 2905

[email protected]

Media

Sarah de Lagarde

Global Head of Communications

+44 (0) 20 7818 2626

[email protected]

SOURCE Intech Investment Management; Janus Henderson Investors
Over the last two years, Disney+ Hotstar has been home to Bollywood as series and films of stars like Saif Ali Khan, Sushmita Sen, Arjun Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, and Rajkummar Rao made their way to the platform. Adding to this list is one of the country's biggest stars - Ajay Devgn, with his crime thriller, Rudra - The Edge of Darkness. Making his digital series debut, Ajay Devgn will don a new avatar of a fierce cop, taking viewers on a journey into the dark oceanic depths of criminal minds. Spanning over six episodes, this gripping series is an Indian rendition of the iconic and globally successful British series, Luther. As Rudra - The Edge of Darkness releases in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam and Bengali; lets take a look at shows and films featuring other bollywood stars present only on Disney+ Hotstar:

Sushmita Sen as Aarya Sareen, in Aarya

Aarya is forced to return to India and face her family and enemies. With multiple attacks jolting her, can she and her children escape the threats of the past?

Alia Bhatt as Aarya Desai, in Sadak 2

Ravi, a suicidal taxi driver, plans to shut shop when a young girl, Aarya, compels him to take her on a life-altering journey to Kailash.

Abhishek Bachchan as Hemant Shah, in The Big Bull

During the late 80s, Hemant Shah, the man with the Midas touch, pulled off the biggest hustle that shook Indias financial fabric. Inspired by true events.

Saif Ali Khan as Vibhooti, in Bhoot Police

Two brothers Vibhooti and Chiraunji have fought their share of ghosts. However, a new case forces them to rethink their abilities and beliefs.

~ Tune into Disney+ Hotstar to watch your favourite star cast in diverse roles ~
13 new facilities across Wales to ensure victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence can give evidence securely

This article is old - Published: Thursday, Feb 3rd, 2022

A process to allow victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence to securely give evidence through video-linked facilities has launched across Wales.

The Welsh Government has invested over 400,000 in 13 new facilities across Wales to ensure that victims feel safe, secure and supported to give evidence in cases involving domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, said: Sexual violence and abuse effects every community in Wales.

We can only really begin to tackle this problem if we ensure that the victims of these crimes feel safe enough to come forward and give the evidence that will enable justice to be served, and those responsible held to account.

These new facilities are a first of their kind for the UK. I am proud that we are leading the way here in Wales, continuing our commitment to support victims and survivors whenever, wherever and however they need it.

The new facilities will give vulnerable and intimidated witnesses the ability to make their voice heard in a way which reduces the fear, stress and anxiety commonly associated with giving evidence in open court.

Chief Crown Prosecutor for Wales, Jenny Hopkins said: We know that having to give intimate and upsetting details in person to a busy court room, often in front of the defendant, is a huge barrier to victims reporting a crime. This project has been driven by the first-hand experience of victims and the issues they have told us they have faced when giving evidence about their abuse.

These facilities will hopefully remove some of the fear and anxiety associated with giving evidence, ensuring that victims of abuse in Wales can give their evidence in a safe supportive environment.

A victim suffered physical abuse for more than 20 years at the hands of her partner and was one of the first people to use the new service.

She said: I was terrified at the thought of facing my abuser in court and although I wanted justice, I dont think I could have gone through with it in person.

Being able to give my evidence in a safe location, far from the court room and supported by an independent domestic abuse advisor, gave me the confidence I needed to give my evidence and get justice for the many years of harm I have endured.

These new sites are part of a bigger picture to work together across agencies through the Criminal Justice Board for Wales, will the overall ambition to reduce crime and improve support for victims.

The Victims Commissioner for England and Wales, Dame Vera Baird QC, said: For many victims, the idea of going to court and coming face-to-face with their abusers can be very distressing and can put them off ever coming forward, instead leaving them to suffer in silence.

Ensuring that all victims in Wales now have access to video-link facilities is a great pioneering move that will help improve the victims experience of the criminal justice system and encourage more victims to come forward. While similar facilities exist in England, they tend to be under-used, so I hope this investment by the Welsh government will encourage this agenda across the board.
Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday hailed for his "rousing" speech in Lok Sabha and said the Congress MP had voiced the long-standing arguments of Tamils in the .

In a Twitter post, the DMK president thanked Gandhi on behalf of "all Tamils" for his speech.

"Dear Rahul Gandhi, I thank you on behalf of all Tamils for your rousing speech in the Parliament, expressing the idea of Indian Constitution in an emphatic manner. You have voiced the long-standing arguments of Tamils in the Parliament, which rest on the unique cultural and political roots that value self respect," Stalin said.

Launching a full-blown attack on the BJP government at the Centre on Wednesday, among others, Gandhi accused the ruling party of bringing back the idea of a "king of India" that was "smashed in 1947" and targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that the "idea of a king is back".

"India is described in the Constitution as a union of states and not as a nation. One cannot rule over the people of a state in India. Different languages and cultures cannot be suppressed. It is a partnership, not a kingdom."



"We smashed that idea of a king. Now, that idea of a king has come back, that there is a king, a Shahenshah, a ruler of rulers, a master of masters... What is happening is that the instruments of the conversation between our states. The instruments of the conversation between our peoples, what we call the institutions of our country are being attacked and captured by one idea," he had said.

Batting for cooperative federalism, Gandhi said the only way India has been ruled over the decades was through conversations. He had also said the states in the country do not have a voice in the present system and insisted that the only way to govern India is through conversations.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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Singapore, however, rejected the juntas proposal to appoint the Major General, according to diplomatic sources.

In mid-2021, the military regime proposed to appoint Major General Than Htut Thein as Myanmars ambassador to Singapore to succeed the National League for Democracy-appointed U Htay Aung, who reached retirement age in 2019 but stayed in the post for two more years.

Than Htut Thein rose through the ranks and became a major general when he was re-appointed to parliament in 2016, this time as the head of the military representatives in the national legislature.

He was a protege of coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing while the junta boss was serving as head of the Golden Triangle Region Command, which oversees eastern Shan State, in the 2000s. Than Htut Thein, then a colonel, later became a military-appointed parliamentarian in 2012 under U Thein Seins quasi-civilian government.

The former deputy chief of military security affairs was appointed to the anti-corruption commission on Tuesday.

Major General Than Htut Thein, whose proposed appointment as junta ambassador to Singapore was rejected by the Lion City, has become a member of the juntas anti-graft body.

Major General Than Htut Thein at a military press conference in Naypyitaw on the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Armys attacks in northern Rakhine in 2017. / Myawaddy

Major General Than Htut Thein at a military press conference in Naypyitaw on the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Armys attacks in northern Rakhine in 2017. / Myawaddy

Myanmar Revolution Has Necessary Ingredients for Success: US Security Expert

Myanmars Military Knows Only the Language of Force

Indias Ties With Myanmar Junta in Focus After Chin Groups Attack on Manipur Rebels

The Day Myanmars Military Chief Hinted at the Coup to Come

Myanmar's Year of Turmoil: From Coup to Jailing of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

Myanmar Resistance Kills Dozens of Junta Soldiers in Three Days of Clashes

Even Worse Than Expected, Myanmar Coup also a Failure for Junta

A Year After the Failed Coup, the Myanmar Peoples Opposition to Military Rule Remains Resolute

On Anniversary of Coup, Myanmar Junta Extends Military Rule for Six Months

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US Enforces Fresh Sanctions on Myanmar Junta and its Cronies

Is Myanmar Junta Leader's Presidential Dream About to Come True?

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Mumbai, Feb 3 : Actress Sunny Leone is shooting for a wedding song titled 'Sharam Lihaaz', choreographed by Vishnu Deva, at a studio in Mumbai.

Sunny, who has been busy with the action sequences of her upcoming projects, found the opportunity of working on the song as something that takes off the stress of heavy duty action.

Talking about her work schedule, the actress said: "The last few months have been hectic in terms of work. And a lot of what I was doing involved kicking and punching because two of my next projects are actioners.

"It was thus so enjoyable to indulge in a bit of dance and fun on the sets of this song. We rehearsed for a day and then got straight into the groove. It's shaping up pretty well. I believe if you have fun at work, it shows." Sunny has starred in four chartbuster numbers in the matter of a month. These tracks include 'Auntiyaan Dance Karengi', 'Machli', 'Dushtu Polapain' and 'Panghat'.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chandigarh, Feb 3 : In a setback to the BJP-JJP government in Haryana, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday stayed the state government law to give 75 per cent reservation to youth belonging to the state in the private sector.

The law under the Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020 is applicable in industries having more than 10 employees.

A Bench headed by Justice Ajay Tewari, while staying the order, admitted a bunch of petitions challenging the law to provide reservation to the domiciles of the state.

Under the law, a provision has been made to impose a fine, ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakh, on the industries which do not employ local candidates.

In a petition, the Gurgaon Industrial Association said the impugned Act was against the provisions of Constitution and also against the basic principle of meritocracy that acted as the foundation for businesses to grow and remain competitive.

Fulfilling one of the key poll promise made by Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala's Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), a crucial coalition partner of the BJP, the law that provides 75 per cent reservation came into effect on January 15.

Elated over the implementation of the legislation, Chautala had said: "Today is a historic day for the youth as from now priority for jobs would be given to the youth of Haryana in all private sector companies, institutions, trusts, societies and industries established in the state." "With the implementation of this system, new avenues for employment will open for lakhs of youth in the private sector," Chautala had said.

In November last year, the BJP-JJP government had notified the law to implement 75 per cent job reservations for locals in the private sector. It envisaged reservation for local youth in the private sector with an upper limit of gross monthly salary up to Rs 30,000.

The law is applicable for 10 years. The state government also relaxed the residency requirement from 15 to five years for a person to get a bona fide resident certificate in the state to provide some flexibility to the private companies in hiring.

Later, the new startups and Information Technology companies were given exemption for two years under the Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act.

Also, short-term (45 days) works have been exempted from this Act.

Likewise, sowing of crops, embroidery, and the primary works related to agriculture-related activities have been exempted. Exemptions have also been given to domestic servants and those industries for which skilled workers are not available.
Bissau, Feb 3 : Fernando Vaz, the minister of tourism and spokesman for the government of Guinea-Bissau, confirmed that 11 people died during the failed coup attempt that took place earlier this week.

During a press conference, he specified that the dead included civilians, security guards and soldiers, calling Tuesday's failed attempt as "violent and barbaric", reports Xinhua news agency.

Vaz stressed the role of the security forces in the "well-planned coup d'etat, aimed at assassinating the President of the Republic, Umaro Sissoco Embalo", adding that "the government salutes the courage and determination of the defence and security forces which have prevented the subversion of the constitutional order".

He accused the actors of this act of wanting to install "chaos in the country", denounced external funding, and promised a thorough investigation to bring to justice "the material and moral authors" of this act.

The spokesman reiterated the commitment of the authorities to defend "democracy and the rule of law".

Late Tuesday, President Embalo announced that the coup had been thwarted and several civilians and soldiers had been arrested.

Embalo said the attackers tried to kill him and his entire cabinet at the government palace.

The attackers were linked to drug trafficking in the country, he said, without providing further details.

Gunfire erupted near government buildings on Tuesday in the capital of the West African nation, where the President was attending a cabinet meeting, the BBC reported.

Guinea-Bissau, with a population of just under two million people, has seen nine coups or attempted coups since 1980.

Over the past two years there have been military takeovers in Mali, Chad, Burkina Faso and Guinea, as well as further east in Sudan.
Immaculate Communications, The Delhi-based public relations, and social media agency have bagged the PR mandate for URBANISTA, the Swedish lifestyle audio brand founded in 2010 in Stockholm, Sweden, in India. The agency bagged the account in a multi-agency pitch and will be responsible for mainline and digital public relations along with media duties for the brand.

Commenting on this new association, Ms.Santosh Bharadwaj, Founder of Immaculate Communications said "The audio category in India is flooded with products offering innovations in their way. Urnanista wanted to emerge as a distinctive niche category player. This portfolio addition to our kitty will help us experiment with the type of content we've been creating so far."

Urbanista is offering its exclusive range of premium wireless audio products that perfectly suit their customers thriving for quality audio products. The product range includes active noise-canceling headphones, true wireless earphones, and Bluetooth speakers which don't compromise on either sound quality or style. The products are sleek, stylish, and sound great providing the soundtrack for a life in motion. Urbanista is available online as well as in 30,000 stores and 90 countries around the world.

Speaking of the association, Mr. Vijay Kannan, India Head, Urbanista India says" Immaculate Communications is a Public Relations and social agency that believes in innovation and ideation with the inspired punch. The company believes in making a brand presence that makes a brand buzzing and tending among the desired audience. Our past association for various brands with the most efficient and experienced team of the company pushes the Swedish brand to go for their branding in India.

The boutique agency has its office across states including, Delhi, Chandigarh, Noida, Jaipur. In two years of thee operations, the agency have successfully managed political campaigns, lifestyle, education, tech brands respectively.
Nokia on Thursday restarted its quarterly dividend and initiated a share buyback programme after reporting fourth-quarter comparable operating earnings above markets estimates as the Finnish telecoms equipment maker kept costs in check.

The company also forecast annual revenue largely ahead of projections and set a long-term target for operating margins of at least 14 per cent, replacing its earlier 2023 target of between 11 per cent and 13 per cent.

A slew of technology missteps in the early stages of the 5G rollout pushed Nokia behind its rivals, prompting a change in management. Since Pekka Lundmark took over as CEO in 2020, he found ways to cut costs and increase spending on research.

"We have now largely caught up competition in 5G," Lundmark said in an interview. "We have created a foundation for growth acceleration, the year of reset is behind us, now we are accelerating."

While the ban of rival Huawei in some markets had helped Nokia to claw back market share, it faced a setback when long-time US customer Verizon chose to give a multi-billion-dollar contract to Samsung.

That contract loss still hurt fourth-quarter revenue that fell two per cent to 6.41 billion, missing expectations of 6.47 billion, a Refinitiv poll showed.

"We have established a new baseline in North America and we do see growth opportunities there," Lundmark said, adding the upcoming 5G auctions in countries such as India would present further growth avenues.

Nokia's fourth-quarter adjusted operating profit of 908 million euros beat the 822 million euros expected by analysts.

Lundmark said he was keeping options open when it came to the question of acquiring companies to strengthen its technology position just like rival Ericsson, which has splurged billions of dollars in acquiring companies.

Nokia also proposed a dividend, suspended since 2019, of 8 euro cents per share for 2021, and start a share buyback scheme of 600 million euros.

Nokia predicted its 2022 revenue will amount to between 22.6 billion euros and 23.8 billion euros ($25.5 billion-$26.9 billion), up from 22.2 billion last year. Analysts on average expected revenue of 23.06 billion, a Refinitiv poll showed.

For 2021, the company reported revenue of 22.2 billion - a growth of 3 per cent in constant currency.

"At least there was growth, which has not always been the case in the past few years," Lundmark said.

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San Francisco, Feb 3 : The 19-year-old teenager demanding Tesla CEO Elon Musk hand over $50,000 to stop him tweeting the location of Musk's private jet has reportedly said he is creating dozens more accounts tracking the movements of other rich and famous people.

Jack Sweeney, a college student and aviation enthusiast, said he had created 16 automated Twitter accounts, or bots, similar to @ElonJet to follow jets owned by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates (@GatesJet), Amazon's Jeff Bezos, the billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban and the rapper Drake, the Guardian reported.

In an interview with the Guardian, Sweeney said he had also created a website, Ground Control, to "monetise" the service by offering bespoke tracking services to celebrities' superfans and to host web versions of the Twitter bots if the micro-blogging site closes his accounts because of privacy concerns raised by the subjects.

"They are either really prominent people or just like really interesting," Sweeney was quoted as saying.

"Lately I have been adding people that [his followers] have requested," he added.

Recent accounts he has set up after requests include Cuban and Drake, who he said was the most interesting.

"He has the biggest plane out of all of them, it is a giant Boeing," Sweeney said.

The rapper's plane, Air Drake, is a $185m 59ft-long Boeing 767-200ER that can carry 216 passengers.

Sweeney, who created @ElonJet in June 2020, said he hoped Musk would reopen negotiations to buy and close down the account. The co-founder and chief executive of Tesla has refused the teenager's demand for $50,000.

Recently, media reports said that Musk has blocked Sweeney on Twitter. While Musk offered Sweeney $5,000 to delete the bot, Sweeney asked for $50,000.

However, Musk declined to pay and has blocked Sweeney on the micro-blogging site.

The billionaire reached out to the 19-year-old last November to express concern about the bot.
(Reuters) - Russia has been moving some 30,000 combat troops and modern weapons to Belarus over the last days, Moscow's biggest military deployment to the country since the end of the Cold War, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Thursday.

The deployment included Speznaz special operations forces, SU-35 fighter jets, dual capable Iskander missiles and S-400 air defence systems, he told reporters in Brussels.

"All this will be combined with Russia's annual nuclear forces exercise," he added. The term dual capable, which Stoltenberg used for the Iskander missiles, is used to describe weapons meant for conventional and nuclear warfare.

(Reporting by Sabine Siebold; Editing by Benoit Van Overstraeten)
Srinagar, February 3: Kashmiri Pandits on Thursday demanded the inclusion of 2.5 per cent of Jammu and Kashmir's annual budget for resettlement and rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants as recommended by the office of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a statement, Satish Mahaldar, chairman of reconciliation and rehabilitation of migrants, an influential organisation of Pandits, said: "Finance department of J&K government has denied inclusion of 2.5 per cent of the annual Budget towards resettlement and Rehabilitation of Kashmiri Migrants despite the Recommendation from the office the Prime Minister of India through its communication reference number A16030/07/2020- J&K dated 11/02/2021 towards the Resettlement & Rehabilitation of Kashmiri Migrants.

"The Dept of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, Civil Secretariat Jammu has also submitted the above recommendations to the Financial commissioner (Finance Department of J&K) for inclusion of 2.5 per cent of the annual Budget for Relief, Rehabilitation & Resettlement of Kashmiri migrants. Jammu and Kashmir: Security Forces Kill Terrorist in Gunfight in Shopian District.

"The concerned officer from the J&K government (finance department) remarked verbally that the GOI should clear the pending dues of UT and the Central government should sanction additional funds on account of the subject.

"We see a larger conspiracy by selective state government bureaucrats who are deliberately discriminating against Kashmiri migrants on the basis of religious lines. "J&K government has offered land to neighboring countries to start business and allowed them to settle in Jammu and AKashmir while making Aboriginals scapegoats.

"All refugees and displaced persons of Kashmir have the right to full and effective compensation as an integral component of the restitution process. The J&K's UT government and the government Aof India should comply with the principle of restorative justice.

"It should be ensured as a rule that restitution is only deemed factually in exceptional circumstances, namely when housing, land and/or property is destroyed or when it no longer exists, as determined by an independent, impartial tribunal. "Even under such circumstances the holder of the housing, land and/or property right should have the option to repair or rebuild whenever possible.

"In some situations, a combination of compensation and restitution may be the most appropriate remedy and form of restorative justice with up to one million of its citizens living as Refugees in neighbouring states soon after the 1990 Genocide. "The government of Jammu and Kashmir needs to introduce National Human Settlement policy to resettle thousands of people/ refugees of J&K who intend to return. Among those who wish to return are "old" groups of refugees, most of whom have spent 32 years in exile in neighboring states of India.

"The National Human Settlement policy, should target the establishment of specific residential areas in each village/District as efforts to enhance proper land utilization and the provision of basic services. "The fact that people would be concentrated, living in defined areas, would make it much easier and more efficient for the government to provide social and economic services to the population. Jammu and Kashmir: 10 People Injured in Road Accident in Poonch District; Injured Shifted to Hospital.

"This is in line with reaffirming the rights of refugees, especially the displaced women and girls, and recognising the need to undertake positive measures to ensure that their rights to housing, land and property restitution are guaranteed".

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 03, 2022 01:57 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
New Delhi: The foreign dream continues to lure millions of Indians. An interesting report by a newspaper highlights the story of a village in Gujarat, where the local community comes together to fulfil the dreams of its residents to emigrate abroad.

The local community creates a pool of funds for the aspiring immigrants so that money does not become a hindrance for their foreign dreams. A report in Times of India said that the local community in Dolariya village lends money to the people at Zero percent interest and there is no EMI burden on the receiver to pay back the money. Dolariya village is located in the Vadodara district in Gujarat.

However, when the people settle abroad, they return double the amount that they get from the local community. This has been true to each and every people that have got financial assistance from the local community to settle abroad. The TOI report has added particular instances of people taking money in lakhs and returning double the amount to the village community.

The report comes at a time when the readers were shocked to know that four members of a Gujarati family, who froze to death in minus 35 degrees temperatures on January 19 near the Canadian town of Emerson while trying to cross illegally into the US. The family belonged to Dingucha village in Kalol taluka of Gandhinagar district. Jagdish Patel reportedly paid Rs 70 lakhs to human smugglers to help him cross into the US from Canada.

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New Delhi: Uttar Pradeshs Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya on Thursday (February 3) filed his nomination for the upcoming assembly polls from Sirathu in Kaushambi district in the presence of BJP National President JP Nadda.

Images released by the news agency ANI shows Maurya filing his nomination papers at the Election commission office.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya files nomination from Sirathu in Kaushambi district, for the upcoming Assembly polls. pic.twitter.com/kykWntmJhq  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 3, 2022

Later, the BJP leader was seen addressing the media along with senior leader JP Nadda.

BJP national president JP Nadda accompanied UP Dy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya when he filed his nomination from Sirathu in Kaushambi, for the upcoming Assembly polls."Keshavji has worked efficiently in last 5 years, has always lived up to expectations. I wish him the best,"says Nadda pic.twitter.com/5k1Gf91Zcg  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 3, 2022

"Keshavji has worked efficiently in the last 5 years, has always lived up to expectations. I wish him the best," said Nadda.

Earlier, BJP president J P Nadda on Monday accused the previous Samajwadi Party government of misappropriating funds meant for various welfare schemes, claiming that the same money is now reaching beneficiaries' accounts directly under the Yogi Adityanath regime.

Nadda made the remarks while addressing one of the two rallies to mark the conclusion of the party's Jan Vishvas Yatra which was flagged on December 20 by a galaxy of six senior BJP leaders from six different places in Uttar Pradesh.

The BJP poll campaign tours were to reach out to the people in all 403 assembly constituencies of the state and win their trust ahead of the upcoming polls.

After crisscrossing the state for around a fortnight, all six streams of the tour are culminating at various places of the state now.

The BJP had set off its poll campaign tours in a replication of its Parivartan Yatra ahead of the 2017 UP assembly polls in which it and its allies had won 325 seats

Uttar Pradesh will go into the polls in seven phases from February 10 to March 7.

The counting of votes will take place on March 10.

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If Muslim martyrs (AKA suicide bombers) are rewarded with 72 sex slaves in heaven, what do female martyrs get? This age-old question was on recent display. According to a Jan. 12 report, Maulana Sajid Rashidi, president of the All India Imam Association, said during a televised interview that "72 hoors are made available for men in jannat (Islamic heaven) as a reward for their 'good deeds' on earth."

The proper Arabic term for these entities is hoor al-'ayn. They are supernatural, celestial women  "wide-eyed" and "big-bosomed," says the Koran (56:22, 78:33)  created by Allah for the express purpose of sexually gratifying his favorites in perpetuity. (Whether or not the English word "whore" is etymologically connected to the Arabic hoor is ultimately a moot point, as they both seem to serve the same function.)

Imam Rashidi and all other advocates of the hoors trace their information back to a canonical hadith  a statement attributed to Muhammad that mainstream (Sunni) Islam acknowledges as true. In it, the prophet of Islam declares:

The martyr [shahid, one who dies fighting for Islam] is special to Allah. He is forgiven from the first drop of blood [that he sheds]. He sees his throne in paradise. ... And he will copulate with seventy-two hoors. (See also Koran 44:54, 52:20, 55:72, and 56:22.)

While the hoors may invoke images of scantily clad genies and other wild tales from the Arabian Nights to the Western mind  and thus be dismissed as "fairy tales" with no capacity to inspire anyone  the fact is, desire for these immortal concubines has driven Muslim men to acts of suicidal terror, past and present, as recorded in both Muslim and Western historical sources (see here).

During the televised interview, Arzoo Kazmi, the female host, asked Imam Rashidi why Muslim women get no such "reward":

On being questioned why no such provision was made for women, he first replied that the woman would be made the head of the 72 hoors that her husband gets. When Kazmi bemoaned that a woman would be stuck with the same earthly husband even in paradise, while the husband would have a bevy of beauties to choose form, Rashidi had no reply and said that Kazmi should be asking this question to Allah who has made these provisions for Muslims in heaven.

Thus, Arzoo Kazmi joins the ranks of countless Muslim women throughout the ages questioning Allah's patriarchal designs and gender-based discrimination. Moreover, she asked: if Muslims are supposed to lead moral and alcohol-free lives because morality and sobriety are intrinsically good, why are they (at least men) "rewarded" with things like 72 hoors and "rivers of wine" (Koran 37:45) in heaven? Again, the imam gave no satisfactory answer.

Clearly, not only do many Muslim men obsess over the hoors  not a few of them hastening their exits from this world to meet them  but their existence in Islam has raised many questions for women. In one Arabic-language video I watched back in 2016, another Muslim imam took and answered questions via phone calls. A woman called in expressing outrage at the hoors, saying that she would be driven "mad with jealousy" seeing her husband copulating with these supernaturally beautiful women all day in heaven.

The cleric responded by telling her that "when you enter paradise, Allah will remove the jealousy from your heart. And have no fear, for you will lord over the hoors and be their queen." Still apprehensive, the Muslim wife pleaded: "But must he have the hoors?" Laughing, the cleric reassured her: "Look, when you enter paradise, you will be more beautiful than the hoors  you will be their mistress. Okay? And when you enter paradise, Allah will remove any jealousy or concerns from your heart."

Such is the lot of women in Islam: they are second-class citizens not only in the here but in the hereafter as well.

Raymond Ibrahim, author of Sword and Scimitar: Fourteen Centuries of War between Islam and the West, is a Shillman Fellow at the David Horowitz Freedom Center, a Judith Rosen Friedman Fellow at the Middle East Forum, and a Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Gatestone Institute.

Image via Pxhere.
Tommy Dorfman and Peter Zurkuhlen divorce after five years of marriage (Getty Images)

Peter Zurkuhlen has filed for divorce from Tommy Dorfman, his partner of five years.

The two reportedly initiated the divorce proceedings in Los Angeles, California on Tuesday (1 February).

The Independent has contacted Zurkuhlen and Dorfmans representatives for comment.

Zurkuhlen and Dorfman met through a mutual friend in 2005. They got engaged in April 2015 and got married in Portland, Maine in November 2016.

The 13 Reasons Why star reintroduced herself as a trans woman in July 2021.

In a Time interview with author Torrey Peters, Dorfman had stated: Were talking today to discuss my gender. For a year now, I have been privately identifying and living as a woman  a trans woman.

She also spoke about how her transition has affected her personal relationships.

Personally, its wild to be 29 and going through puberty again. Some days I feel like Im 14. As a result of that shift, the types of romantic partnerships I seek out are different, Dorfman said.

I was in a nine-year relationship in which I was thought of as a more male-bodied person, with a gay man. I love him so much, but weve been learning that as a trans woman, what Im interested in is not necessarily reflected in a gay man.

The Jane the Virgin star said she and Zurkuhlen had incredible conversations about how to redefine their relationship as friends.

Transitioning has been liberating and clarifying, Dorfman added.
MAYS LANDING  The Pan-African Flag was raised Tuesday, Feb. 1 in the quad of Atlantic Cape Community Colleges Mays Landing campus signaling the start of Black History Month and a series of events that will run throughout the month at all three campuses.

Atlantic Cape Community College is proud to celebrate and commemorate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans in our community and throughout the country, which is why we have cultivated a series of events that will allow students, faculty and staff to engage, reflect and learn, said Natalie Devonish, vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at Atlantic Cape.

On Feb. 8, the public is invited to the Student Center on the Mays Landing campus, 5100 E. Black Horse Pike, to view Talking About HER Story, a moving exhibit of African American women and icons in history, presented by the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey.

On Feb. 22, at 11:30 a.m., local story-teller Michelle Washington Wilson will present Harriet Tubman, Tales from the Cape, a virtual event open to the public. This presentation will focus on the life and times of abolitionist Tubman, conductor of the Underground Railroad and womens suffrage supporter, who was active in Cape May County. Visit SGA Connections for the Zoom link to participate.

For a complete list of events, visit atlantic.edu/sgaconnections.
A replica of Captain Cook's ship 'Endeavour' is seen at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney in 2018.

The wreck of Captain James Cook's famed vessel the Endeavour has been found off the coast of the US state of Rhode Island, Australian researchers said Thursday.

Their research partners in the United States, however, have described the announcement as premature.

The Endeavour, which the British explorer sailed in an historic voyage to Australia and New Zealand between 1768 and 1771, was scuttled in Newport Harbour during the American War of Independence.

For more than two centuries, it lay forgotten.

"Since 1999, we have been investigating several 18th-century shipwrecks in a two-square-mile area where we believed that Endeavour sank," Kevin Sumption, director of the Australian National Maritime Museum, told a Thursday media briefing.

"Based on archival and archaeological evidence, I'm convinced it's the Endeavour."

But the Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project said it was too early to draw that conclusion.

In a statement, project executive director DK Abbass said the announcement was a "breach of contract", adding that "conclusions will be driven by proper scientific process and not Australian emotions or politics".

A spokesperson for the Australian museum said Abbass was "entitled to her own opinion regarding the vast amount of evidence we have accumulated."

Map of north-east US showing the area where the wreck of Captain James Cook's famed vessel the Endeavour is believed to be found, according to Australian researchers on Thursday.

The museum does not believe it is in breach of any contracts.

Sumption was among a team of archaeologists that announced in 2018 they believed the Endeavour's remains were at the Rhode Island site, but said then more analysis had to be done.

The Endeavour was the ship Cook sailed from England to Tahiti and then New Zealand before reaching Australia in 1770 and charting the continent's east coast.

By the time the ship sank in Newport Harbor in August 1778, it had been renamed the Lord Sandwich and was being used by the British to hold prisoners of war during the American revolution.

The British scuttled the ship, along with others, to block a French fleet from sailing into Newport Harbour to support the Americans.

This was just a few months before Cook's death in Hawaii in February 1779.

After two centuries at the bottom of the harbour, only about 15 percent of the Endeavour remains intact, according to the Australian National Maritime Museum.

"The focus is now on what can be done to protect and preserve it," Sumption said Thursday.

Explore further Remains of Captain Cook's ship likely in Rhode Island harbor

 2022 AFP
Former mayor of Constanta Radu Mazare was sentenced on Thursday by the High Court of Cassation and Justice to five years in prison for bribery and conflict of interest in the "Polaris" case file, Agerpres reports.

Initially, in March 2019, Mazare received a sentence in the court of first instance of 9 years and 10 months in prison, which was reduced in the appeal by the Supreme Court to 5 years, as the judges acquitted the former mayor for some of the crimes.In the same case, businessman Sorin Gabriel Strutinsky was sentenced to 5-year detention for being an accomplice in bribery.Former PSD (Social Democratic Party) MP Eduard Stelian Martin, the owner of Polaris, was also acquitted. He had received a 5-and-a-half-year prison sentence in the trial court.
State Farm is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2022 by expanding its Neighborhood Assist grant program to help communities. This year, the program will award 100 $25,000 grants (vs. 40 grants in previous years) to nonprofit organizations and schools to help fund neighborhood improvement projects. Additionally, were doubling the number of accepted cause submissions to 4,000.

State Farm Neighborhood Assist truly embodies the spirit of what our company has been about for 100 years - being a good neighbor, said Rasheed Merritt, assistant vice president at State Farm. We are excited about expanding the program in 2022 to help even more neighborhoods.

Heres how the program works:

Submission Phase: Starts Feb. 16 and ends when 4,000 submissions are reached

Individuals can submit a cause at www.neighborhoodassist.com starting Feb. 16 at 1 p.m. You can prepare now by going to the website and downloading the submission guide. We will accept the first 4,000 submissions. The State Farm Review Committee will then narrow the field to the top 200 finalists using a scoring rubric.

Voting Phase: April 27-May 6

Ultimately, voters will decide which community improvement projects win big. The public will have a chance to vote 10 times a day, every day for 10 days, from April 27-May 6, for their favorite causes from the list of finalists. Voting will take place at www.neighborhoodassist.com.

Winners Announced: June 7

The 100 causes that receive the most votes will each win a $25,000 grant. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, June 7, at www.neighborhoodassist.com. Last year, 125,000 people cast more than 3 million votes in support of their favorite causes, selecting winners ranging from small towns to big cities.

Since the program began in 2012, more than 380 causes have received a total of $10 million to enact change in their communities.
New Jersey Human Services today announced teens across the state can begin submitting entries for the 27th Annual New Jersey Teen Media Contest, which highlights Human Services mission to support families.

The contest, run by Human Services Division of Family Development, is open to all New Jersey middle and high school-age students. This year, the contest will once again accept entries in the hand-painted/hand-drawn and written word categories.

This years contest challenges teens to illustrate  through art or the written word  the following theme: What is your dream and how are your parents/loved ones helping you get there?

We are excited to once again extend this opportunity to students to express themselves through art. We know the stress that this pandemic has put on young people and we hope this will help shift their focus on the goals they hope to achieve, and serve as good reminder of the love and support that surrounds them, said Acting Commissioner Sarah Adelman.

Every year we are impressed by the thoughtfulness of the entries and the talent of these young artists. As the pandemic continues to present challenges for many families, this is a creative way for young people to think about the dreams they hope to achieve and the importance of having a strong family and community foundation, said Deputy Commissioner Elisa Neira.

As we continue to navigate the current public health emergency, we recognize that these unprecedented times have had a massive impact on our children, relationships and family life, said Division of Family Development Assistant Commissioner Natasha Johnson. The Teen Media Contest is a way for students to engage in creative ways of thinking and expressing their ideas. We are continually amazed by New Jersey teens and their ability to portray their family dynamics through art and the written word.

All entries must be postmarked no later than March 31. Staff from the Division of Family Development, with representatives from various other organizations and/or corporations in the state, will judge the contest. Winners will be selected and prizes awarded in first, second, and third places in both the middle and high school groups, for each of the two entry categories. Winning entries from the contest will be included in the 2023 Office of Child Support Calendar.

The 2022 calendar can be viewed or downloaded from the contest homepage, NJTeenMedia.org, to serve as inspiration for the teens. The website also provides the official rules, frequently asked questions, entry forms, a look at the winners and honorable mentions from previous contests and other important contest information.

Teachers and administrators can register their school by visiting NJTeenMedia.org, by contacting Nicolette Omelczuk at 732-833-3783, or emailing njteenmedia@gmail.com. School registration is not required for direct student entry. For complete submission guidelines, visit www.NJTeenMedia.org.

For more information about child support services, call 1-877-NJKIDS1 or visit NJChildSupport.org.
New Delhi: Ending months of speculation about the medium of board exams amid the Covid-19 pandemic, Board exams for classes 10 and 12 will be held in offline mode this year, announced Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Education on Thursday (February 3).

The education board also confirmed the dates of commencement of board exams.

As per the latest announcements, exams for class 10 will be held between March 10 to April 4 while the class 12 examination will take place from March 4 to 30.

As far as practical examinations are concerned, those will be held from February 25 to March 14 for class 10. However, February 14 to March 7 is the practical dates for class 12.

The announcement comes amid the confusion that prevailed after Earlier, the Maharashtra Education Board had sent a proposal to the Uddhav Thackeray government, seeking postponement of the offline examinations following a virtual huddle with state education minister Bacchu Kadu.

It should also be noted that the decision to hold offline exams is taken after a huge protest by students by students in Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, and other parts of Maharashtra a few days ago. The parents and students had expressed concerns claiming that last-minute changes will create confusion.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra on Wednesday reported 18,067 new coronavirus infections including 113 Omicron cases and 79 pandemic-related deaths, the state health department said.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has welcomed an offer from visiting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to mediate in Kyiv's standoff with Moscow.

Speaking during a visit to Kyiv on February 3, Erdogan said Turkey was "prepared to undertake its part in order to end the crisis between two friendly nations that are its neighbors in the Black Sea.

Erdogan, who has close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, said he would be happy to host a summit at the level of leaders in Turkey or talks at the technical level."

Zelenskiy thanked Erdogan for his initiative and welcomed Turkeys plans to expand its diplomatic missions in Ukraine and a deal enabling Ukrainian factories to produce Turkish drones.

Turkey and Ukraine signed a series of agreements during the meeting including a free trade deal that Kyiv says will boost bilateral annual commerce to about $10 billion over five years from $7 billion now.

Erdogan is the latest leader of a NATO country to visit Kyiv after the premiers of the Netherlands, Poland, and Britain amid heightened diplomacy to ease tensions over Russias military buildup near its border with Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke by phone separately with Putin and Zelenskiy on February 3 to try defuse tensions.

The calls were part of Macrons efforts to pursue dialogue to identify elements that could lead to de-escalation, according to his office. They discussed the efforts to resolve the conflict in eastern Ukraine and conditions for strategic balance in Europe, which should allow for the reduction of risks on the ground and guarantee security on the continent.

Earlier on February 3, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg accused Moscow of amassing some 30,000 combat troops and modern weapons in Belarus ahead of planned joint military drills later this month. Stoltenberg called Russia's deployment the biggest to Belarus since the end of the Cold War.

Stoltenberg's announcement came after Washington said it would send thousands of troops to Europe to bolster NATO allies amid a continued standoff prompted by a massive Russian troop buildup near the Ukrainian border that the West suspects could be the prelude to an invasion.

The Kremlin said on February 3 that the U.S. move was further ramping up the crisis instead of de-escalating it.

Russia and Belarus have announced joint military drills to take place from February 10 to 20.

Stoltenberg, speaking to reporters in Brussels on February 3, said the Russian deployment to Belarus included Spetsnaz special operations forces, SU-35 fighter jets, dual-capable Iskander missiles, and S-400 air-defense systems.

"All this will be combined with Russia's annual nuclear forces' exercise," Stoltenberg added. The term "dual-capable," which Stoltenberg used for the Iskander missiles, refers to weapons meant for both conventional and nuclear warfare.

The NATO chief called on Russia to take action to "de-escalate" the situation and repeated warnings that "any further Russian aggression would have severe consequences and carry a heavy price."

On February 2, the Pentagon announced it will send about 3,000 troops to Poland, Romania, and Germany this week, a decision that U.S. President Joe Biden said was consistent with what he has told Russian President Vladimir Putin and represents "a sacred obligation" under Article 5 of NATO's founding treaty -- the key mutual-defense clause.

Live Briefing: Ukraine In The Crosshairs RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's ongoing invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, Russian protests, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

Moscow has not disclosed the size of the troop contingent it has sent into Belarus, but Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who arrived in Belarus on February 3 ahead of the joint drills, has said the number of soldiers involved is below the 13,000-troop maximum agreed in 2011 under Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) rules as set out in the Vienna Document.

When that level is breached, Russia is obligated to invite observers from the OSCE to the area.



The joint drills are scheduled to last for 10 days, from February 10 to 20.

Russia, which denies it is planning to invade Ukraine, has claimed the United States and NATO are the instigators, citing the Western response as evidence.

"We are constantly urging our American partners to stop escalating tensions on the European continent," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"Unfortunately, the Americans continue to do it," he said, adding that the most recent deployment of U.S. troops to bolster NATO forces in Europe had exacerbated tensions.

Therefore, he added, Russia's concerns over NATO's eastward expansion and U.S. troop deployment were "absolutely clear, absolutely justified."

"Any measures taken by Russia to ensure its own security and interests are also within reason," Peskov added.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP, and dpa
NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday said that the ruling BJP is frustrated with the Samajwadi Party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance for the upcoming assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh and exuded confidence that the two parties will form the next government in the state.

Addressing a joint press in Noida with Rashtriya Lok Dal's Jayant Chaudhary, the SP chief also accused Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of using foul 'language' and threatening their party workers in the run-up to the assembly polls.

The SP chief claimed that Yogi Adityanath's own party had 'isolated' him and accused him of playing the politics of negativity.

Calling the SP-RLD alliance vs BJP a 'Bhaichara banaam Bharatiya Janata Party' (brotherhood versus the BJP) contest, Akhilesh Yadav said, "The BJP is indulging in politics of negativity. The SP-RLD tie-up stands for brotherhood. BJP is now frustrated with our alliance the CM is threatening our workers.

Referring to the UP CM's 'khoon ki garmi' jibe, the SP leader said, "What else can you expect from this chief minister? He should tell if the power tariff in the state will come down. It's not the first time I am hearing him speak such language.''

"In fact, the Election Commission should take note of it that how come a CM is uttering such words,'' he added.

Akhilesh Yadavs Samajwadi Party, meanwhiles, has written to the Election Commission of India, requesting it to issue instructions to CM Yogi Adityanath to use the "language in accordance of the Model Code of Conduct."

Samajwadi Party writes to Election Commission of India, requesting it to issue instructions to CM Yogi Adityanath to use the "language in accordance of the Model Code of Conduct." pic.twitter.com/eJ3Ttu9Yao  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 3, 2022

Attacking Yogi Adityanath, Yadav said that he is is upset as he has been isolated within the BJP. ''As far as the chief minister is concerned, look at his affidavit and the number of cases he had. The BJP is wondering if it has made a mistake by making him the CM. The 'garmi' can be seen in the chief minister because he was seeking a poll ticket from other seats, which he wanted but has been denied and sent back home,'' Yadav said.

There was speculation that the CM may be fielded from Ayodhya, but the party nominated him from his home turf Gorakhpur. ''He will not get anything in future from the BJP and that's why he is speaking such language. He is also startled by the support the SP alliance has got,' the SP leader claimed.

Replying to a question about breaking the Noida jinx and visiting the city after a gap of 10 years, the SP chief said, ''On superstition (that whichever CM visits to Noida, loses the poll). But there is another belief that whoever goes to Noida also wins the polls. I started my cycle yatra in 2011 from Noida & won. I'm there again because we've to form the Govt.''

There is a superstition (that whichever CM visits to Noida, loses the poll). But there is another belief that whoever goes to Noida also wins the polls. I started my cycle yatra in 2011 from Noida & won. I'm there again because we've to form the Govt: SP chief Akhilesh Yadav pic.twitter.com/uSvXHi93CJ  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 3, 2022

On being asked if there is any impact of BSP on poll prospects of SP-RLD alliance, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav said, "I've always said that Ambedkarwadis should join Samajwadis, because we've to save the Constitution & democracy. I appeal again to Ambedkarwadis to join us."

#WATCH | On being asked if there is any impact of BSP on poll prospects of SP-RLD alliance, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav says, "I've always said that Ambedkarwadis should join Samajwadis, because we've to save the Constitution & democracy. I appeal again to Ambedkarwadis to join us." pic.twitter.com/9SxInLNq4h  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) February 3, 2022

Speaking on his turn, the RLD leader said, "Youths, farmers and labourers are in supporting SP-RLD alliance, which seems to be adding to the BJP's frustration... The language he uses doesn't suit the CM post. He is threatening us. He probably couldn't understand the mood of this region.''

The two leaders had earlier addressed poll rallies in Kairana and Shamli during which they accused the BJP of trying to create a religious divide and using `Jinnah, Aurangzeb and Pakistan` to vitiate the atmosphere. The two leaders also appealed to the people to vote for development and shun such politics that divides them.

In a move that could have far-reaching consequences, the Congress has withdrawn its candidates against Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav and his uncle Shivpal Singh Yadav. The Congress candidates in Karhal in Mainpuri and Jaswantnagar in Etawah have bowed out of the contest. Both seats vote in the third phase of polling in the state on February 20.

While Akhilesh is contesting the Karhal seat, Shivpal is in the fray from the Jaswantnagar seat. It is noteworthy that the SP had not fielded any candidates against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi in Amethi and Rae Bareli in the last Lok Sabha elections. This is seen as a reciprocal gesture.

Confirming this, Uttar Pradesh Congress General Secretary Prakash Pradhan said, "Since they had not fielded anyone against Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, we have reciprocated." Samajwadi Party spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary also said that this is a `reciprocal gesture` by Congress.

Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh will be held in 7 phases starting from February 10 and the election results will be declared on March 10.

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Two years ago when the news of COVID engulfed the nation we all donned whatever masky device we could rig and ventured forth to stock up on toilet paper. We heard, to our dismay, that some jobs were essential and some werent, but we bought into that. It all seemed otherworldly, 1984-ish, and scary. Then, after just a few weeks, the news of Hydroxychloroquine and Ivermectin started to surface and the crisis seemed manageable. Whew! I thought. Thank you, God, for providing such a timely discovery; well be able to dodge this bullet. I had failed to realize what bullet was racing toward us.

For, despite evident cures, the lockdowns continued. The masks -- soon shown to be useless -- not only stayed on our faces but became religious icons, virtue-signaling devices. We stopped striking up conversations with strangers. Our kids sat, hour after hour, day after day, in front of computer screens that presented to them the bare minimum of an education -- if that. We quit going to the movies. Out to eat became just that -- out in the cold on make-shift patios. No parties. No church. No jobs.

We built huge makeshift hospitals to handle the anticipated caseload. People were dying, but whether or not they were dying of COVID had yet to be established. No one asked why we werent using the cheap, available miracle drugs to save folks. My doctor told me that he wasnt allowed to prescribe either HCQ or IVM. Allowed?!? Both drugs were FDA approved for other uses, so whats the problem?

Oh, right. The money that can be made selling a vaccine -- thats the problem. No need for a vaccine if the cure is fast, easy, and cheap. My naivete began shriveling; my cynicism burgeoned. Then Cuomo sent death bombs to old folks' homes -- homes where the elderly were being denied contact with their loved ones -- and tens of thousands of these people died, and died alone, and we did nothing about it. People lost their lives, their jobs, and their homes and yet we dutifully strapped on our masks and bought more toilet paper. Our children, masked, sequestered, and restricted became suicidal and we felt incapable of doing anything about it.

Fauci kept adding layers to our masks, which we knew didnt work, and he still kept his job. Hes still pushing both masks and the vaccines, neither do much good, both do a lot of harm and, still, he keeps his job. He should, by rights, not only be fired but be locked up somewhere ugly. But we do nothing. We hear rumors of powerful people advocating for depopulation, a clinical, mechanical, hidey-word for killing folks in huge numbers. Yet, we dont resist.

While all that is going on the schools are trying to groom our children for deviant sexual behavior. Drugs, and more COVID, are pouring over our southern border. Nothing is being done. Our economy is circling the drain, and even though we know whats causing it, we do nothing about it.

But, well wear masks. And well accost others who dont. We act like the air itself is poison, like our fellow man is more likely foe than friend. The mask has become a talisman to ward off evil spirits, the vaccine a magic potion, and both are highly symbolic. The mask silences us, depersonalizes us, separates us from others. To highlight that focus we are constantly being urged to socially distance -- an oxymoron if there ever was one. The mask is our ring in the nose.

The vaccine says loud and clear, We own you and can do whatever we want to you. People are being forced to play Russian roulette with a gun loaded by the government/corporate/media syndicate. It isnt a game a wise person will happily play, this firing-squad game -- damned if we do, damned if we dont.

But are we damned? Not really. We just have to tear off our chains. Oh no, say evangelical Christians, were supposed to obey the government as per Romans 13. But we cant forget Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who refused to bow down to Nebuchadnezzars statue but were spared death in the furnace, or Daniel who had to step into the lions den because he prayed to his God, or Jesus healing the leper on the Sabbath, against Jewish law. Theres a point past which we dont have to go.

What our government and the sycophantic corporations are asking of us is not only dangerous but totally silly. Its not like we dont know that these drastic measures do nothing to combat the disease. Its not like this is still an emergency; emergencies are sudden, require instant, often uninformed decisions. But its been two years. There has never been a two-year emergency -- a two-year recovery period, sure, but the predicament is, should be, short-lived and any government worthy of being called a government shouldnt take this long to figure things out. Its time we called foul on this one.

Besides which, what the government is forcing on schoolchildren is utterly damaging and immoral. The dissolution of small businesses is equally unfair and immoral. The specter of losing ones job or risking death taking the shot cant possibly be the will of a just God, even if we have to acknowledge that Biden sits in the White House only because God allows it -- temporarily.

At some point, we are going to have to yank the ring out of our noses, stomp our collective feet and say, No more. We need to follow Canadas lead (Never thought I say that!) and grind everything to a halt until:

1. We have removed all COVID restrictions.

2. We have sorted out our election mess so the elections can be secure.

3. We have removed Fauci, et. al., from office.

We have solved our presidential problem -- not only removing Biden from the Oval Office but preventing Harris or Pelosi from moving in.

I no longer wear a mask in public; I find it humiliating to be required to do something so silly, so useless, so dehumanizing. I made the mistake of taking the first two shots, but I wont take a booster. Im just done. One of my ancestors, a Thomas Burtch, was part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 1600s. Im an American. Im just done with this nonsense.

I wish I had a truck.

Deana Chadwell blogs at www.ASingleWindow.com. She is also an adjunct professor and department head at Pacific Bible College https://pacificbible.edu in southern Oregon. She teaches writing, logic, and literature.

Image: Pixabay
EDMONTON, Alberta, Feb. 02, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In response to the continuing COVID-19 surge in the province, the Provincial Court of Alberta has extended court restrictions for an additional two weeks.



Until February 18, 2022, all out-of-custody trials, preliminary inquiries and other hearings requiring in-person testimony will be adjourned except urgent matters and those with other compelling reasons such as matters involving children, or matters that have been in the system for a significant period of time. All dockets are open but continue remotely. Further details on the nature and scope of these restrictions, as well as how matters will be handled until February 18 are available on the Courts website.

The ongoing fifth wave of the pandemic is preventing people from attending court. This isnt limited to members of the public  the Court is experiencing a significant number of health related absences from clerks, Judges and judicial staff, Chief Judge Derek Redman said. We are hopeful that we will be able to ease these restrictions as of February 18 so that all matters can proceed again as of February 22.

Although the court had reopened for most in-person matters last year, because of the Omicron variant and rising case counts, since January 1 the Court had been limiting in-person appearances to only those that are deemed urgent. The Court continues to keep track of the COVID-19 case counts in the province and to make evidence-based decisions in the best interests of participants in the system.

COVID-19 precautions will continue to remain in effect, including:

Social distancing rules

Limited capacity within courtrooms and courthouses

Plexiglas barriers within courtrooms

Enhanced cleaning

Mandatory facemasks as per court directive



Our priority remains providing timely access to justice in as safe an environment as is possible, Redman said. Delaying matters is something we try to avoid, as Albertans deserve to have their matters heard as promptly as possible.

Please visit https://albertacourts.ca/pc/resources/covid for complete information on the various measures the Provincial Court is taking to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The Provincial Court of Alberta is the busiest court in Alberta, with 95 per cent of all matters beginning and ending at the Provincial Court level. Every year, more than 500,000 people interact with the Provincial Court of Alberta in some way, either as a witness, as a lawyer, as a defendant, or as a plaintiff. For most Albertans, the Provincial Court is a primary point of contact with the justice system.

For more information, contact:

Olav Rokne

Senior Communication Advisor

Provincial Court of Alberta

olav.rokne@albertacourts.ca

780-203-3490
Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Feb 02, 2022 (SPS) - The Special Envoy of Algeria for Western Sahara and the Maghreb Countries, Mr. Omar Belani, stated that "the situation in Western Sahara contradicts the principle of liberation and the spirit of solidarity on the African continent.

During his speech at the work of the 40th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, Belani said that "the continuous violations of human rights in the occupied areas of Western Sahara have caused a humanitarian crisis that goes against the principles and objectives of the foundation of the African Union, a continental organization created to protect and guarantee human rights.

Mr. Belani informed the African ministers present at the meeting, that on November 13, 2020, the Moroccan occupation army was involved in the repression of a group of Saharawi civilians who were exercising their rights of peaceful expression in the El region. -Guerguerat, south of Western Sahara, and as a result of this flagrant attack, Morocco expanded its occupation of more portions of the territory of the Saharawi Republic, thus violating the agreements signed between the two parties to the conflict, Morocco and the Frente POLISARIO.

Belani emphasized that "the Executive Council of the African Union is now more than ever obliged to assume its responsibilities and enforce its decision regarding the visit of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights to the occupied parts of the territory of the Saharawi Republic, taking into account that the prevailing situation in the territory represents a clear violation of the African Charter of Human Rights SPS

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Prior to World War II, the population of Russia, still then called the Soviet Union, was approximately 170 million, plus about 24 million from territories Russia had incorporated. The protracted war, harsh weather conditions, and the falloff in the Russian birthrate conspired  along with poor health choices like significant vodka and liquor imbibement as well as massive nicotine habits  cut the population of this superpower to just under 146 million, according to its last census, in 2021.

The bloodletting during that World War cost Mother Russia millions of men. Russia was left with myriads of unmarried women and widows.

That shortage exacerbated the population's dwindle to such an extent that when we stayed in Russia, a short decade ago, the government was earnestly providing bonuses for babies, even going so far as to provide what, in less formal terms, might be classified as...um, coitus rooms to encourage Russian couples to procreate, no secret, to rebuild the human "rolling stock" severely depleted by the adverse perfect storm of war; the earliest mortality rate in all of Europe, at a mere 50 years for men; and the scarcity of viable marriageable males.

Women in Russia, not surprisingly for a forensic anthropologist to notice in strolling cosmopolitan streets in the major cities of Russia, responded by an energetic upsurge of visible "advertising" in terms of none-too-modest attire, makeup, and quite evident competitiveness for husband material. Russian "girls" became a featured advertisement far afield as prospective brides, sight unseen, for American and British husbands-to-be.

Mail-order brides. The answer to few men in the immediate environment.

Famous river overpasses with heavy locks fastened on the metal pilings and bridge railings were sagging with rusting Russian pledges to remain faithful forever. There were few shiny new locks promising everlasting fidelity: far fewer people were marrying. Or having those much-needed bundles of schast'ye  happiness and joy.

Thanks to constant alerts and bulletins on the airwaves, online, and via social media, we are all too aware of the military manpower buildup along the Ukrainian perimeter of in excess of 150 to 170 thousand combat-ready soldiers. These are very recently augmented by massive blood-banking silos and medical basics, bandages, and ancillary supplies indicating Vladimir Putin may be prepping for combat involvement with the 44-million-strong nation of Ukraine.

Putin is famously horny to reconstitute Russia's stature as Europe's hegemon. He works from the fading but still alluring image of the past puissance of old, considering Ukraine (like Taiwan and Tibet to the CCP's Xi Jinping). To that end, President Joe Biden has boosted Putin's star considerably by crippling the U.S. energy supply and helping Putin regain its premier place as Europe's supplier of gas. As a gift to our rival and longtime enemy, Mr. Biden awarded Severny potok, the Nord Stream1 pipeline, to the growling bear, while oddly canceling our Canadian pipeline along with its 11,000 jobs, on his first, inauspicious day in the Oval Office. A stroke of his Mont Blanc, and poof: President Vlad gains millions of rubles per day from the sale of oil, while the United States loses its energy self-sufficiency in an eyeblink, no particular rationale extended to the untold thousands downstream of those 11,000 initial job-losers and their suppliers and contractors.

Even with the enormous den'gi, the monetary influx from the sale of all that Russkie oil out of Gazprom oil and gas to clients German chancellor Olaf Scholz and his E.U. buddies, Putin is emboldened to make a run for  what? Ukrainian territory, potential husbands for Russian ladies-in-waiting, and those vaunted pink-fleshed bundles of future Russian workers, soldiers, and patriots.

Looked at in the cold stats of human capital, a plausible drain of more than 1% of the Russian populace means 175,000 male soldiers  no small number.

President Biden's priming the pump in consistent ill-timed encouragement of Ukraine invasion has to be a strategic risk: the loss of these men would be a marked decrease of marriages, babies, future workforce. Not a pretty prospect for a tough-guy aspirational leader like KGB alum Putin. And scurrying to erase jumping-the-shark announcements about the U.S. possibly "overlooking" a "minor incursion" or so, the arms and weaponry have been airlifted, pending a commencement of hostilities Mr. 46 himself urged and abetted in awkward spillage he likely did not mean to voice aloud. But. But.

Is the prospect of losing thousands of Russia's finest in olive drab and khaki blue what adorns Putin's nighttime fantasies? Assuredly not, no matter his brawling image on horseback, bare-chested and all.

Yet there it all sits: the ticklish impasse at the border, squatting uneasily in his cool, steely tactician brain. Is the probable loss of men and materiel worth the effort? What, in the end, does he stand to gain if, urged into unwonted premature belligerence by a foreign prod from the albino ghost from Delaware, he vanquishes Ukraine? Aside from a bolus of 44 million angry, non-compliant rebels spoiling for a do-over?

Maybe not ironically, the derivation of the word Delaware, from the French de la werre, or de la guerre, is gender-neutral Norman French for "of the war."

Image via Pexels.
New adaptations of popular adventure reality show Survivor are set to roll out across central and southeastern Europe, Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of Banijay, has revealed.

United Media-owned Nova TV in Croatia and Nova S in Serbia will broadcast a first season of the format in late 2022. In addition, TV Markiza in Slovakia and TV Nova in the Czech Republic will air a new adaptation of the format. Acun Medya is on board as local producer for both versions.

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Both agreements were brokered by Samia Moktar, VP Central and Eastern Europe and Airlines, Banijay Rights. Survivor has long been a global television hit, but these new versions prove this format continues to have fresh and broad appeal for broadcasters worldwide, Moktar said. Were excited to be working with our local broadcast and production partners across the CEE region on what are set to be exceptional adaptations of this show.

Initially created by British television producer Charlie Parsons for U.K. TV production company Planet 24, as Expedition Robinson, Survivor launched in 1997 and has been produced in 48 territories since then, including the U.S., where 41 seasons have aired and a 42nd is due, Mexico, U.K., India, Japan, Israel, Italy, Brazil and many more. Last year was the formats most successful to-date, with 24 productions confirmed.

In the show, contestants are divided in two tribes and fight in daily challenges for immunity and other advantages. After each immunity challenge, one team needs to see one of their own eliminated and on the way home.

Beyond the Edge, a Survivor-like celebrity competition, is premiering in March in the U.S.

Story continues

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The White House has officially confirmed that the U.S. side is working with the Government of Ukraine on a new package of economic assistance against the background of Russias aggression.

Yes, we have been discussing with the Ukrainians a package of economic assistance, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said at a briefing on February 2.

She noted that the package had been discussed during the conversation between presidents Biden and Zelensky last week, and now the discussion of the next steps continued at the level of the governments of the United States and Ukraine.

Psaki added that was not the first U.S. economic package provided to Ukraine.

We have provided a significant amount of assistance  not just security assistance, but humanitarian and other economic assistance  over the course of time, so that would certainly build on that, the White House Press Secretary noted.

As reported, after the conversation between the presidents of the United States and Ukraine on January 27, the American side announced that it was considering ways to provide additional assistance to Ukraine's economy in the face of military pressure from Russia.

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I must admit that I was very wrong about Biden. I thought he'd be out of office by June 2021 at the latest. Instead, technically speaking, he's still in office. But looking at a recent, very disturbing little video of Joe Biden being gently led away from the podium by his caretaker/wife, Mrs. Joe Biden, one has to wonder what kind of an empty shell of a man is helming what long was the most powerful nation in the world.

Biden was pulled together enough to read a teleprompter speech in which he once again invoked the usefully dead Beau Biden to declare a new war on cancer. (While I think it's a real tragedy that Beau, a father, died young from cancer, I've said for a while that, given how much Joe uses Beau for political effect and to shield himself from criticism, if Beau hadn't died, Biden would have had to kill him.)

Once again, Biden did that weird whispering thing into the microphone. I don't know what he thinks he's doing, but it's creepy:

WHAT is this creep talking about? pic.twitter.com/UIH6LfmNVK  Danny De Urbina (@dannydeurbina) February 2, 2022

Creepy does not mean Biden is too decrepit to handle the demands of his office. However, there are signs that the Democrats are conning the American people into thinking there's a sentient being in the Oval Office.

Before I play the next clip, I fully understand that being physically infirm does not mean that Biden is mentally incapable of handling the demands of his office. However, when you look at how far Biden has declined physically since taking office (and he wasn't in such great shape back then), and when you consider that his cognitive abilities have been kind of shabby, too, the following clip is disturbing:

So much strength being communicated here... pic.twitter.com/yfY5dCuEcm  Danny De Urbina (@dannydeurbina) February 2, 2022

Jill functions not as a wife, but as a nursemaid.

J.R. Dunn wrote yesterday about Nancy Pelosi's plans for a severely curtailed State of the Union address. His assumption is the same as mine: that the Democrats are not only terrified that the thrice-vaccinated Biden will get sick (making it even harder to sell the vaccine to reluctant Americans), but they also don't want him in a crowded, busy room considering his diminishing mental state.

One of the recent little political kerfuffles about Biden was that, despite his having spent an inordinate number of weekends at one of his Delaware homes, the White House is refusing to release the visitors' logs for those weekends. One theory is that the visitors are nefarious people visiting to make sure that Biden, having been bought via the intermediary of his son Hunter, stays bought.

However, I have another theory. It exists in the same universe as the theory saying Biden spends so much time in Delaware because people in early-stage dementia do best when they're in a familiar environment. Building on that, I have a suspicion that the visitors' logs would reveal that physicians who specialize in geriatric care and dementia are making regular journeys to Delaware to pump Biden full of drugs that maintain his mental state.

Biden was always a stupid man. Biden was always an egotistical man. Biden was always a man who liked to play tough (witness the Corn Pop narrative, his claims that he would once have beaten Trump up, etc.). And Biden was always a man who was consistently wrong about foreign policy. Now, on top of all that, Biden is a man in steep mental and physical decline.

I was wrong that Biden would be out of office by June 2021. Had that happened, Kamala Harris would have been an appalling president. Still, I have to believe that it's even worse to have in office a man with Biden's geriatric and congenital mental infirmities. Our growing list of enemies is taking note.

Image: Biden and Jill. Twitter screen grab.